Issue 1

the

Eyrie

October 2012 Vol. 52 Issue 1 Eden Prairie High School Eden Prairie, MN

Cover story:

Students involved in politics 20

Inside:

Stepping back stage with the fall musical

16

Hollenbeck’s Looking into the downtown lives of multisport athletes itinerary

27

30

Investigating the many uses of Coca-Cola

38

Contents and staff

4

16 23

33 October letter from the editors

W

elcome to the first issue of the Eyrie news-magazine. Clearly, we’ve made quite a few changes to the layout and style of the Eyrie since last year, but we haven’t changed our dedication to providing the students and staff of EPHS with high quality, accurate stories. A few new features we’ve added to our magazine are a rotating staff column, this issue written by Craig Hollenbeck from the social studies department; several do-it-yourself activity ideas; a monthly horoscope and quick recipes for lunches.

With this new content, as with all of our stories, we hope to engage and inform our readers.

Our website, theeyrie.org, is continuing to grow every day and offers features such as sports wrap-ups, descriptions of upcoming events and photo of the day. With a website that is updated daily, we hope to bring students and staff relevant, interesting stories in a timely manner. Our monthly magazine is 40 pages and full color. We hope you enjoy the new look.

Sincerely, Your Editors-in-Chief, Adrienne Manbeck, Ethan Nelson and Katie Pylipow

Arts The importance of the art department

Unique decorations for Halloween pumpkins

Trends

Policies

4 7

Mission Statement The Eyrie strives to be an accurate, informative and entertaining publication for the students and faculty of EPHS.

10

Crocs craze takes over

Entertainment Behind the scenes of “Pirates of Penzance”

Letters The Eyrie encourages all students and faculty to share their views with the school. All letters must be signed; however, names may be withheld in certain situations.

Once received, the Eyrie reserves the right to edit letters for length or content.

16

Cover Story Students volunteering for campaigns

20

Editorials All published editorials reflect the views of the writer and do not necessarily reflect the views of the publication, student body, faculty or administration. Staff Editorials are staff-written and approved by a two-thirds majority of the staff.

News 22 Meeting the new faculty faces 23

Unveiling the i-Learn initiative

Editorials Staff editorial: iLearn initiative

Obituaries The Eyrie will publish a short obituary for any student or staff member who has died if the staff and family of the deceased deem it to be appropriate.

26

Point/counterpoint: Who deserves the vote this November?

28

Sports

Contact us We welcome your feedback, suggestions and letters. To submit letters or comments, stop by room 253 during third hour or email comments to theeyrie.ep@gmail. com.

32 Q&A with Madison Fazio, the new Eagle 33

Students go elsewhere for soccer training

Profiles

All hail EPHS’ homecoming king, Salam Bachour, and queen, Emma Claire Fontenot

36

Variety Fall into the season with a festive crossword puzzle

Staff

Editors-in-chief Adrienne Manbeck Ethan Nelson Katie Pylipow Managing editor Lauren Bren Arts editor Lauren Bren Trends editor Julia Carroll Entertainment editor Maddie Chicoine

38

Cover story editor Adrienne Manbeck

Variety editor Olivia Deans

News editor Laurie Linscott

Copy editor Hayley Brandser

Editorials editor Ethan Nelson

Chief of Photography Melissa Berman

Sports editors Hannah Jeter John Sullivan

Graphics manager Kameron Boike

Profiles editor Katie Pylipow

Website manager Jack Graen

Staff Lauren Altman Audrey Altmann Hannah Brandser Valerie Eliasen Elizabeth Kenyon Collin LaVone Kelly Nitzsche Jean-Pierre Tossa Veera Vasandani Vivien Yue

Multi-media To follow the Eyrie on twitter, use the twitter handle the_eyrie.

To find us on facebook, search for the Eyrie.

For daily content and school updates, visit theeyrie.org

Scan me for exclusive online content from the Eyrie:

Arts Senior Mackenzie Jones, along with other students, uses the most of her in-class work time as she intently illustrates a picture of an old man.

T

Art education builds bridges

By Veera Vasandani

“Through art,” said Melanie Ebert, “you can see your fears, hopes, dreams and pride.”

Ebert, head of EPHS art department, speaks fervently about her role in the art world and how it affects the lives of her students. She describes arts education as being linked to improving academic achievement, personal growth, emotional balance and other numerous aspects required in becoming a well-rounded member of society. Through art, students are allowed to unconditionally

Arts 4

The Eyrie, October 2012

explore the human experience.

“Art gives you a chance to discover a different part of yourself,” said senior Mackenzie Jones. “It gives you an opportunity to try new things and explore new talents.”

For some students such as Mackenzie, art is what motivates them to come to school and is an area they excel in, providing an important balance in their overall education.

The process of brainstorming, a concept that is stressed in art classes, is a vital part of all education and is a skill that can be applied in every field of work and department

of education. Without brainstorming, completing any task, from academics to tomorrow’s outfit, is virtually impossible.

The professional manner of critique that is taught in art classes also educates students to carefully assess their own strengths and weaknesses, as well as that of their peers. This is not only a significant aspect of everyday life, but also a quality that is necessary in relationships, careers and human development. The arts have also been proven to improve students’ problem-solving and critical thinking skills, which contribute to

Doodle Artist: Henry Teaver

Junior Henry Teaver was bored during lunch when he doodled this nautical masterpiece.

The inspiration for the newspaper tug boat comes from our very own Eyrie publication.

When asked about the old man, he said, “It’s just an old man.”

Photo by VivienYue

to real academic achievement overall academic achievement.

Everyone experiences stress during the school year, whether it be due to upcoming tests, drama with friends, applying to colleges or all of the above. Senior Jasmine Guy takes art classes because it calms her down and makes the school day seem less stressful. “It’s like a burden is lifted from your shoulders,” she said. Art therapy is a commonly used form of stress relief.

The essential joy and invigoration of the art experience does more than just soothe lives: it can connect people more deeply to

the world and open them to new ways of seeing and experiencing life.

In today’s fast-paced world, where everything can be done with the press of a button, many young people don’t get to experience the satisfaction of “being the medium,” said Ebert. Creating something out of nothing is not only emotionally gratifying, but is also stimulating for the mind. Starting with a slab of clay or a white sheet of paper and ending with a finished product that you solely created is a beautiful thing in an environment where technology

produces virtually everything.

Nancy Gallas, EPHS ceramics teacher, elaborates on a concept called the neutral zone. When you enter an art class, the only thing that matters is you, a blank slate and your thoughts.

It’s a completely neutral zone that isn’t affected by anything else but how you feel.

The beauty of experiencing that sense of unity is difficult to find in other classes, where everything depends on what the book says. In art, the only thing that matters is how you perceive the world. ■ The Eyrie, October 2012

Arts 5

EPHS Alumni gets published

By Hayley Brandser EPHS alum Brain Russell, who graduated in 2001, always had a passion for writing poetry. Russell took Advanced English 12 in the fall, and teacher Linda Wallenberg soon realized his talent for writing and poetry. “We had a lot of conversations about poetry after class,” Wallenberg said. “I could really tell that he loved poetry.”

Wallenberg soon realized that he really should have been in AP English. Russell asked Wallenberg and Rolf Olson if he could additionally take AP Lit & Comp as well as the Advanced English 12. This gave both Wallenberg and Olson the opportunity to work with Russell and develop his already strong writing and poetry skills. “We both had the privilege of having him as a student,” Wallenberg said.

Russell still keeps in touch with Wallenberg and Olson. His poetry is even used in classes today. “We hosted a Poetry Slam for National Poetry Month a few years ago, and he came back and performed some of his poetry,” Olson said.

All of Russell’s hard work is paying off. He has reached a huge achievement and has been chosen to be published by the prestigious Graywolf Press.

He is publishing a book called TheYear of What Now that will be released on July 9, 2013. He answered questions about his life and writing for the Eyrie: How did you start writing?

I wanted to write as soon as I figured out how to read. I basically taught myself cursive before kindergarten. I used to write sentences out and my mom would show me where I got things right and wrong. I wrote my first poem when I was maybe 9 or 10.

I can’t really explain why. I don’t remember reading poetry or seeing much of it around. What I had to say just kind of came out that way.

What was the first piece of major literature you wrote?

I suppose it depends how you define major. I wrote a poem in my junior year of college while staying with a friend in New York City for the summer. A homeless woman was found dead and folded inside a storage trunk right across the street from the apartment I was staying in. The poem that came out of that experience was probably the first real poem I had written. Up to that point I had mostly written what I thought were witty imitations of Billy Collins and Wallace Stevens.

That experience and the poem that came out of it made me realize I had no idea what I was doing. Which is a pretty exciting and productive place to be as a writer. It was the first poem I had published in a magazine. So, for me, it was a major turning point in my early development.

Where do you get your inspiration now?

I think inspiration still exists but I think the “a-ha” moments only appear so in retrospect. I think inspiration—or the way we often think of—breeds laziness. It gives you permission to sit back and passively wait for something great to come to you. Writing is difficult Arts 6

The Eyrie, October 2012

Photo submitted Russell pictured with his wife (right) and AP Lit teacher Linda Wallenberg.

work and takes a lot of discipline which is why so few people are truly good at it. If you have a heightened awareness of the world around you (and the world within you), everything is inspiration, constantly.

Did Ms. Wallenberg’s class inspire you to write?

I think I would’ve written either way, but I don’t think I’d be where I am now had I not met Wally. She very literally changed my life. I was planning to go into accounting. I could’ve been rich! But Wally helped me realize writing was what I wanted to devote my life to. She gave me an outlet for my writing, a reason to do it and to push myself to take it seriously. She introduced me to contemporary writers so I stopped writing poems about horse-drawn carriages and polio.

In all seriousness, I feel extremely fortunate to have passed through Wally’s world. There are very few people I’ve met who have her

ability to discover and nurture what’s best in another person. I’m grateful to know her.

Do you plan on making a career out of being a writer or is it a hobby?

Well, that’s a tough question.

To start, I’ll say that I would react very strongly against the idea of my writing as a hobby.

When I think of hobbies, I think of old men putting tiny sailboats inside bottles. To me, hobbies carry a connotation of being less serious, low stakes, activities that supplement rather than define a life. Writing is one of a handful of things I care most about in the world. I would feel anchorless without it. It’s difficult for me to think of a hobby that way.

What is The Year of What Now about?

The poems are narrated by a husband whose wife is in the hospital for an extended period of time with an unknown illness. It touches on a number of things—

the absurdity of hospitals, how one group of people is there as part of their everyday working life and another group is there because their life is potentially changing forever; the way a hospital makes one divide life into those who are sick and those who are not yet sick; how does one handle a situation for which there is no instruction manual, for which all responses seem wrong or, worse, hollow? But the experience also brings them closer together, reaffirms what they’ve had.

What books are you reading now?

Tracy K Smith’s Life on Mars and David Mitchell’s Cloud Atlas.

An excerpt from “The Fall of English”

by Brian Russell

It was the waiting— Thou, Thine, Thy, Thee— waiting for their slow deaths that must have been torture within itself.

They could only watch as Whom and Ere jumped to grab the last rung as the chopper lifted off the embassy.

Patiently, proudly, profoundly silent— they prayed. They prayed to Shakespeare and Johnson while watching the imperial soldiers of Time march into the streets. Those fading words didn’t even shout out when Wherefore began to run and was shot in the back of the head.

Spotlight Artist: Alyssa Heide

By Lauren Bren On the first floor of this high school there is a hallway tucked behind the tireless chaos of the Old Commons.

This hallway is somewhat of a hidden gem. The walls are painted murals with all the colors of the rainbow and display cases proudly flaunt the fabulous artwork of some of EPHS’s most talented.

However, there is one picture that stands out among the rest. It is a portrait of teenage girl drawn entirely in pencil. The creator of this masterpiece is senior Alyssa Heide.

This picture that she named “Megan” was displayed at the new Minnetonka Art Center through a contest that she entered last year, and won.

Although she did not discover

her artistic ability until later in life, she was an immediate natural.

“I was in a group a with a lot of people who drew really well, and I wanted to draw like that so I took Drawing 1 to see if I would be good at it,” Heide says.

In Drawing 1 they test students’ skills in a variety of different areas. “First you have to work with ebony pencils, and then work with shading, and finish

the class with the final portrait,” she said. However, Heide is not limited to only drawing; her

class and had a lot of fun,” she said, “and I am taking painting this year, so we will see how that goes.”

For Heide, art is more than just a way of selfexpression. It is a way to transfer her thoughts and memories into something tangible. “I am inspired by my childhood memories, but also by abstract thoughts about the future,” said Heide, “My art is definitely realistic.”

In just over a year of experience, Alyssa Heide has managed to have her artwork exhibited, taken a plethora of different skill courses, and truly found Photo by Vivien Yue her passion. “For me, art artistic talent covers a is a challenge. It is a way for broad scope of other me to be creative without creative niches. “I took a ceramics deadlines or restrictions.”■

Architecture of the month:

Walker Art Center

Photo by Kelly Nitzsche

The Eyrie, October 2012

Arts 7

Do-It-Yourself:chalkboard mug Everyone has sudden gusts of inspiration as they’re sipping their morning coffee. After making this mug, you’ll have a writeable chalk surface to note down your latest epiphany or to simply doodle on. If you’re feeling especially creative, you can easily erase the markings and start all over again. The best part? It only takes fifteen minutes.

Materials: A Porcelain Mug A Soft-Bristled Paint Brush Painter’s Tape (available at Target) Chalkboard Paint (available at Home Depot and most art supply stores) How to: 1) Check the mug for dirt or dust and wipe it off before beginning.

2) Tape the parts of the mug you don’t wish to get paint on.You could paint the whole mug, or you could do a variety of stripes. It’s up to you!

3) Using the soft bristled-brush, apply the chalkboard paint.

4) Wait for the paint to dry and peel off the tape.

5) Let the paint dry for 24-72 hours.

Depending on the type of chalkboard paint you buy, you may have to bake the mug according to the instructions provided with that particular paint.

Tips: 1) If you mess up, wipe the paint off with a wet paper towel.

2) Make sure the paint dries completely before you peel off the tape; otherwise, it will smudge.

3) It would be more convenient to write on the mug before pouring your beverage.

Photo by Veera Vasandani

Lunches with Lauren: Apple-Nutella Quesadilla 4 small tortillas 4 Tablespoons Nutella 1 apple, sliced 2 teaspoons sugar 1 teaspoon cinnamon 1. Preheat a non-stick pan to medium heat 2. In a small bowl combine the cinnamon and sugar 3. Take two tortillas and spread 2 Tablespoons of Nutella over each 4. Place apple slices around each tortilla and place the remaining tortillas on top 5. Spray one side of the quesadilla with nonstick spray and sprinkle with cinnamon-sugar mixture 6. Place in the pan, cinnamon side down. Heat for 3 minutes and repeat on other side.

7. Let it cool, cut it up and enjoy!

Arts 8

The Eyrie, October 2012

Photo by Lauren Bren

Fun pumpkin ideas For a fresh take on Halloween festivities try thinking outside the box when it comes time to carve pumpkins. There are a plethora of unique and creative ways to decorate these fruits of the fall.

Gather supplies likes spray paint, crayons, glitter, candy corn, some autumnal ribbon and let the gourd be your canvas!

Photos by Lauren Bren

The Eyrie, October 2012

Arts 9

Trends Photo by Julia Carroll A rainbow of colors fills the halls as students flaunt their favorite bold and bright shoes. Crocs are available in a rainbow of colors to fit everyone’s style and personality.

Crazy for Crocs These rubber shoes are taking over the halls one foot at a time

W

By Lauren Altman

hether they are required to be worn for a sports team or simply by choice, Crocs have become a fad around the school. Crocs are comfy, all-purpose foam shoes that many people love to have.

Since they are pretty cheap and easy to wear, they are growing in popularity.

Many sports teams, such as the varsity girl’s soccer team and Dance Arts Centre’s Xtreme team, choose to include Crocs as a part of their team attire.

Many feel they are an eyecatching and enjoyable piece of team attire.

“When I wear my Crocs, especially in adventure mode, I feel ready for action,” varsity soccer senior Emily Carstens said.

The Xtreme team members soon became Croc fanatics once the entire team became interested in using them as part of their attire.

Senior Madi Kurvers said, “Our team colors are green and black; we all have green Crocs and our moms sport black.”

While some teams have Crocs as a part of team apparel, members tend to personalize

Trends 10

The Eyrie, October 2012

‘‘

When I wear my Crocs, especially in adventure mode, I feel ready for action.

-Emily Carstens

’’

their Crocs with Jibbitz.

These special clips can be inserted into the ventilation holes in the top of the shoe.

From Buzz Lightyear to Hello Kitty, there are a wide variety of Jibbitz. Many people collect them, and some even make a sport out of it.

“I think Jibbitz are awesome! They let you express your personality and creativity,” senior Anne Lindahl said.

“They are a fun way to make your shoes one-of-akind.”

While many people enjoy these practical but unique shoes, there are many reasons why students view Crocs as a completely hideous waste of money.

Some may consider the colors as boring, the holes as pointless and the adventure strap that isn’t really conducive to an adventure.

“I don’t like Crocs because they aren’t comfortable enough to justify how unfashionable they are,” senior Josh Angelchik said.

“But I don’t judge a person’s character based on the shoes they wear.”

The constant change in fashion is inevitable; there are new styles coming out every day.

But many students believe that feeling good in what they wear is more important than what others think. ■

5 quick Halloween costumes

By Hannah Brandser

H

alloween is just around the corner and for most people, this is a really fun time of the year. It is also very busy for students who may not have time to go buy costumes. Here are some easy, last minute costumes for any personality that could be created with items around your house.

If you are feeling vintage and full of color, you could try being an 80’s work out figure. Here are some things you may need for this costume:

-Hair scrunchy and/or headband

-Bright colored tights

-Leg warmers

-Tennis shoes -Leotard If your style is preppy and you find yourself on the golf course during your summers, you could be a golf caddy. Here are some things you may need:

-Polo shirt

Photo by Melissa Berman

-Tennis shoes -Gloves

-Skirt or shorts -Visor If you feel lost all the time, you could be where’s Waldo. Here are some things you may need:

-Red and white striped shirt

-Circular black glasses

-Red or white hat -Jeans

-Any shoes If you love books and learning is your thing, you could be a nerd. Here are some things you may need: -Glasses -Suspenders

-High-waisted pants

-Bow tie -Cardigan If you love digging around in the dirt and playing with animals, you could be a farmer.

Here are some things you may need:

-Flannel shirt -Overalls

-Cowboy hat -Boots

-Face-painted or natural freckles We all know kids our age are just trick-or-treating for the candy, and these costumes are a perfect last-minute fix for that. I hope that they will help to make your Halloween a prosperous one (candywise, at least). Good luck trick-or-treating everyone!

Braided hairstyles for every occasion and haircut

By Julia Carroll

your bun will be, quit French braiding and continue a regular braid. Secure the braid 1 This ‘do is for the girls with long locks. at the end with a rubber elastic. Then, Start by taking a piece of hair from behind bring the rest of your hair up into a high your ear and braid it straight down. It works pony tail, including the extended braid. best to use rubber bands from dental work Wrap hair into whatever type of bun you to tie the end, but small, rubber hair ties like, (ballerina, sock, or just a messy knot) work as well. Tie the braid off and pull excluding the braid. Secure with hair ties or across to your other ear, forming a headbobby pins. Lastly, wrap the braid you left band. Pin and tease or style to your taste! out around the base of the bun, tuck in the end, and secure with bobby pins. Add a bow 2 This style will work for almost all hair or headband that matches your dress for lengths, but shoulder-length or longer personal flair! works best. Begin with a tight French braid 4 Begin again with a section of hair behind along your forehead line from the natural your ear, but make it bigger than the headpart. To make the braid more intricate, band braid. Split the section in three and take smaller pieces from scalp. Braid long put two thirds off to the side. Braid one of enough to fit into a pony at the nape of your the sections and tie with elastic. Then, take neck. Pull all your hair into that pony, and the two thirds and use the braid you already braid down and tie off. Pull sections of the made to braid a second braid. Secure with a braid out to make a loose, loopy braid. Spin rubber band. Do this on the opposite side as into a bun formation, and pin into place. well, and then pull the braids together at the If you want to do this hair style, you 3 back of your head. Pull out the elastics of might want to have a girl friend or your the larger braids and one of the tiny braids. mom do the braid part. To begin, flip your With the remaining tiny braid, wrap it two head over and begin a French braid at the or three times around the elastic to cover it, nape of your neck, working towards the and pin in place. front. Once you get to the spot where

1

2

3

4

The Eyrie, October 2012

Trends 11

Girls 1

SCRAPBOOK oversized sweater, goes well with:

1

leggings or skinny jeans.

2 LEN DRUSKIN leather

2

jacket, goes well with: jeans or skirts.

3

J. CREW jean shirt, goes well with: leggings or printed pants.

4

PAC SUN maxi skirt,

4

3

goes well with: leather jacket or patterned shirt.

5

AMERICAN APPAREL circle scarf, goes well with: oversized shirt or oversized sweater.

6

HEARTBREAKER canvas sneaker, goes well with: jeans or leggings.

7

5

STEVE MADDEN leather riding boot, goes well with: jeans, leggings, or a country-style dress

Trends 12

The Eyrie, October 2012

7

6

Boys 8 FOSSIL watch, goes well

with: oversized sweater or

8

any shirt.

9

9 JCPENNEY cardigan,

goes well with: jeans or any

13

shirt.

10 POLO t-shirt, goes well

with: jeans or corduroys.

11 UNDER ARMOUR

dry-fit t-shirt, goes well 10 12

with: jeans or athletic pants.

12 OLD NAVY corduroy

pants, goes well with: cardigan or flannel shirt.

13 AMERICAN WEAR 11

flannel shirt, goes well with: jeans or corduroys.

14 NIKE tennis shoes,

goes well with: jeans or 14

corduroys.

Photos by Melissa Berman

The Eyrie, October 2012

Trends 13

PRETTY POLISH

There are so many unique colors and options to paint your nails. Pinterest is exploding with ideas of nail designs. Here is a fun autumn DIY for painting your nails.

By Julia Carroll

What you’ll need: • White nail polish • A variety of fall colored nail polishes • Nail file • Nail clipper • Make-up sponge • Nail polish remover • Skinny black nail polish brush or skinny paint brush with normal black polish

Step 1: Prep

I chose to use red, orange, yellow and a soft gold. This is the background of leaves for your design.

Remove all nail polish from nails and trim to an even length.

Use the nail file to shape nails if Step 4: Finish necessary; any design looks best on nails that are uniform. Then, paint This step is also up to your your nails an even coat of white. taste. I chose to paint a tree, spider Do a second coat if necessary and web, and leaf design over the let dry. colors, but you could try spelling out “BOO,” or draw a ghost, or Step 2: Sponge anything of the sort.

Find a make-up sponge and Tips: your first fall color. Paint a coat of the color onto the sponge and I took each design line-bydab gently onto your first nail, line, and I practiced on a sheet of and then continue onto the rest. paper before I went to the nail.

Variation in the amount of each The spider web is the simplest one color is a good way to make this design your own! Let this coat dry. to go step-by-step, starting with three lines coming from a point, and then connecting the lines with Step 3: Repeat curved lines to create a web. These nails are super fun and very festive Repeat step 2 with as many for the fall season. Make the nails colors as you’d like, making sure to your liking and rock them this that you let each color dry in autumn. Good luck! between so there’s no smearing.

DIY: beaded earrings made easy

By Julia Carroll

What you’ll need: • Wire cutters • Wire pliers • Form-holding wire • Beads • Crimp beads

All of these items may be found at beading stores such as the Bead Monkey, but they may be found at select craft stores such as Michael’s or JoAnn Fabrics

• Earrings Trends 14

The Eyrie, October 2012

Step 1: Cut a piece of wire about a half inch longer on either side than you want your tear drop shape to be (this ends up to be about four inches). String the beads onto the wire.

Step 2: Pull ends of the wire together and slide crimp bead onto both ends of the wire. Pinch crimp bead together with pliers until flat.

Step 3: Trim both wires to about a quarter of an inch.

Step 4: Create a loop by bending the wire around the wire pliers. Any small circular item will work for this step as well.

Step 5: Hook the loop onto the earring form and close off loop.

The brand-new Eyrie website has landed!

Visit www.theeyrie.org for daily updates, sports scores and exclusive content

The Eyrie, October 2012

Trends 15

Entertainment Junior Mika Brouillette, sophomores Allison Barker and Jena Powell and freshmen Madi Lang and Julia Camilli picked out shoes for the cast of the musical.They also are in charge of choosing the all of the costumes for the main characters, which is a task that takes up most of their time.

Stepping backstage with the

T

By Maddie Chicoine

wo months before the first official showing of the “Pirates of Penzance,” music can already be heard outside of the choir room.

The chorus is rehearsing their songs inside while next door the pit orchestra practices the storm score for the play. Crashing waves and raving winds can be imagined even without the set or stage. In the Performing Arts Center, the stage looks almost bare, save for some old sets and the actors on stage, chatting and reading their scripts.

Entertainment 16

The Eyrie, October 2012

What is ultimately seen by hundreds of people in the PAC with elaborate sets and costumes starts out as a few high school students practicing lines and blocking, melodies floating down the hallway and a dozen band students with their instruments and pages of sheet music. In the course of two months a marvelous transformation takes place.

“Pirates of Penzance” is a Gilbert and Sullivan comic opera. Performances will be at 7:30 p.m. on Nov. 9, 10, 15, 16 and 17, and at 1:30 p.m. on Nov. 11 and 17.

Tickets go on sale Nov. 5. Tickets are $7 for adults and $5 for students and senior citizens.Tickets can be purchased by calling

952-975-8008 or at the box office one hour before performances in the PAC. The play is directed by Rolf Olson.

Junior Kaylee Simonson has been acting since she was a toddler, by making up skits with her sister. She plays Mabel, a daughter of the Major General and the love interest of former pirate Frederick, played by Michael Kretzschmar. “It’s the only thing I want to do all day,” Simonson said about musical rehearsals.

Students are required to spend 250 hours rehearsing for every production if they hope to letter in theatre. But in reality, they spend far more in rehearsal. Every day, students involved in the musical spend two and a half

The cast members go over and practice their lines with musical’s director Rolf Olson.This year’s cast includes seniors Kyle Stengel, Michael Kretzschmar and Jack Maurice, junior Kaylee Simonson and sophomore Katie Hennen.

Photos by Jack Graen

The chorus rehearses after school in the choir room under the direction of Kendra Sampson.The chorus meets in the choir room multiple days a week.There, they work through their music and the different movements of the musical.

cast of “Pirates of Penzance” to three hours at rehearsal either after school or in the evenings. Rehearsals on Saturday can last all day.

“Acting in the show, getting direction that’s how you grow,” said Kretzschmar.

“A lot of it comes with hours and hours of practice. You get to think like the character, react like the character.”

His character Frederick has several major songs, and spends the majority of the musical on stage. Kretzschmar has been singing as long as he has been acting and calls his voice his instruments.

While the main actors spend a majority of their rehearsal time on the stage in the PAC, junior stage manager Abbey Wright

divides her time between the PAC chorus and pit orchestra practices, making sure that everything is in order and everyone is on task. “Its fun,” said Wright, “you get to meet everybody from the cast, crew and pit orchestra.”

Wright goes to every practice like the rest of the cast although she never appears on stage during the performances. Her work is purely behind the scenes. Some of the common things she does while at rehearsal include taking notes about the performance, taking attendance and just being at the rehearsals to watch the progress of the play.

“If there are any problems, I have to fix them,” said Wright. Since entering the high

school, Wright has been involved in seven plays and has been the stage manager since last year.

When the cast of the play is not rehearsing, the musical’s crew take over the PAC and “costumers” gather in the PAC underhouse to sort through the vast array of clothes, shoes and furniture stored there.

Sophomore Jenna Powell works in costuming, “I wanted to be involved in some way,” said Powell.

In all, around 35 students are part of the production crew. While they stay behindthe-scenes and off of the main stage during the performance, they are just as vital to the final product as the main actors are.

■

The Eyrie, October 2012

Entertainment 17

Reviews What makes us love music videos

By Collin LaVone

Ever since the days of Michael Jackson’s “Thriller,” the world has been intrigued with music videos, and one way or another, they find a way to pull us in. PSY’s “Gangnam Style” has been everywhere in the media recently.

Considering most of us can’t understand more than a few words in the song, the reason for the song’s popularity must be the music video.

Music videos can also change the way we view or listen to a song. For example, the song “I Will Follow You Into the Dark”

by Death Cab for Cutie displays a different view of the song than I had first interpreted.

At first what I thought was a simple, sweet, and innocent song was actuGraphic by ally a dark and Kameron Boike depressing one from the view of the band.

The music video shows a small hole in the center of the man’s room become increasingly larger throughout the song, until he is eventually sucked in, and as the song says “follows his lover into the dark,” and dies doing so.

Music videos are all about interpretation. The artist may be singing about one thing in their own life, while you the listener takes the lyrics in an entirely different direction. The type of music video may also affect how we interpret it.

For example, Katy Perry’s award winning “Firework” isn’t there to tell a story or capture a deep emotion from the viewer, it’s there to feed the already energetic feel of the song.

Where as a video like Death Cab For Cutie’s is there to send a message and to make the viewer think about what the song’s deeper meaning is. There’s no right or wrong, it’s all about the viewer’s opinion.

Entertainment 18

“Beta” expected to impress

By Olivia Deans Imagine a community where clones are made from the deceased and used as personal assistants, nannies, maids, or just as entertainment. A world where happiness is bought and the pressure to be perfect is intense. This is the world Rachel Cohn flawlessly created in her novel “Beta,” which was released in stores Oct. 16. This community is called Demesne and is located on a secluded island, inhabited by only the wealthiest people on earth.

Elysia is a teen beta clone and is the first of her kind. Up until now clones were only adults. As a clone, Elysia should be soulless, but Elysia is different. She soon begins to have visions from her First, the one she was cloned from, and thinks she may be trying to tell her something. She knows she must hide it if she wants to survive. But when she begins to love people, everything is ripped away from her.

Cohn, also the author of the well-known “Nick and Nora’s Infinite Playlist,” has refined her writing skills with this book. The storyline keeps one reading and wanting more. The readers’ idea of a perfect society is distorted and changed throughout the story and

the ending is a shocking turn of events.

“Bye-Bye Birdie” remains relevant, interesting despite ties to the ‘60s

By Audrey Altmann I had never been to the Chanhassen Dinner Theatre before attending “Bye Bye Birdie” and had also never seen the film adaptation.

Not knowing what to expect, I went into the show with an open mind.

Before seeing one of the first performances with an audience, I was informed that this show is still in “previews,” which means in the theatre world, they are a set of public performances of a theatrical presentation that precede its official opening. This

The Eyrie, October 2012

Submitted photo

allows directors to make changes that aren’t found during rehearsal before most critics are invited to the show. The official opening of “Bye Bye Birdie” at Chanhassen Dinner Theatre is on Oct. 19.

This musical is upbeat, humorous and captures the attention of the entire audience.

Use of the entire theatre as a stage allows the actors to start or finish various scenes throughout the audience and keeps things interesting.

This musical is about

teenagers, their parents, a famous rock & roll singer, and the problems he brings to a small town in Ohio. It is classic and its themes are relevant even if the story is set in the 1960’s.

The actress who played Kim MacAfee, the teenage girl who is chosen to kiss rock star Conrad Birdie before he goes off to war, is a talented woman named Jessica Fredrickson who graduated from EPHS in 2003. Her portrayal of Kim was energetic and had an array of emotions.

“Bye Bye Birdie” is now playing and goes until Mar. 30, 2013 and prices of tickets are anywhere from $54 to $81. This is somewhat costly for a high school student, but I highly recommend this show. The level of entertainment is worth every penny.

With home-made mozzerella, Mozza Scariest Mia attracts, pleases a bustling crowd Halloween

By Adrienne Manbeck

Stepping through the red doors at Mozza Mia, I was greeted by the smell of fresh tomatoes, basil, garlic and pizza dough. The noise from the crowd and the long line at the hostess table instantly made me realize both that I should have made a reservation and that Mozza Mia certainly has a following within the community.

I waited, eagerly anticipating my meal, for an agonizing 40 minutes, but even as I was waiting for a table, the staff was friendly, talkative and apologetic for the wait. The service was incredibly quick and attentive once I had been seated. Mozza Mia’s menu is rather small, but it also has variety of food.

Perhaps most famous for its fresh-made mozzarella cheese, Mozza Mia has several plates available from the mozzarella bar.

From this section of the menu, I chose the caprese salad, which

was incredibly fresh and was composed of tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, basil and a little olive oil and balsamic vinegar.

While there are many high-quality appetizers available, most diners should save room for one of the many delicious pizzas. The pizza crust is thin and clearly quite fresh, and the cheese is obviously a star of the show. I ordered the margarita pizza and it had a delectable tomato sauce with a slight hint of oregano and garlic. It also had slices of fresh mozzarella and basil.

There is also a simple cheese pizza that closely resembles the margarita pizza only without the basil and with shredded cheese rather than cheese slices. There are also more unique pizza flavors, such as the fig

and prosciutto pizza. For someone who’s not in the mood for pizza,

By Kelly Nitzsche These are the five best places around the cities to go for the Halloween season. Rated from a one to a five, one being least scary, five being scariest.

Photo by Adrienne Manbeck

there are also several pasta options available, although the pizza was clearly quite popular with most of the patrons.

With homemade mozzarella and fluffy, divine pizza crust, Mozza Mia has taken an inventive spin on an old classic. For those looking for a perfect date night or a fun, but unique, evening with friends, the Edina theater, right across the street, pairs very well with fresh, gourmet pizzas and Italian food.

Perks of Being a Wallflower: A profound insite on a highschool outcast

By Elizabeth Kenyon Bright lights engulf the lobby of the Uptown Theater. It’s the first thing I noticed before buying tickets and selecting seats. Then I was shown to my seat by an usher.

Marveling at this fancy service and the big screen, I noticed how squeaky the seats were. Then I forgot all about the seats, because the lights were dimming. The movie previews were full of upcoming Indie films.

Then, finally, the movie began.

In “The Perks of Being a Wallflower”, Charlie doesn’t cry nearly as much as he does in the novel

by Stephen Chbosky. Maybe that’s because most of the definitely tear-worthy experiences from the book were left out of the film. This didn’t reduce the emotion of the

movie in any way. It actually made me love the movie even more because I wasn’t preoccupied by how annoying it was that he cried all the time.

The book was a series of letters to an unnamed person, and by the way Charlie uses second person to address the recipient of the letter, the recipient is the reader. Because the book was written in first person, readers can really connect with Charlie on an emotionally deeper level.You don’t just feel for him, you feel with him.

The film didn’t lack any of the emotion the book portrays. It was even more emotional than the book because the book wasn’t that descriptive when it came to how Charlie felt about the things he went through, and you could see how he felt in the movie.

While the writing of the novel was at some points more like the perspective of a 7-year-old just learning how to form sentences with big words in them, the movie

haunts

actually portrayed Charlie as how he really is: a sixteen-year-old freshman. The movie did quote the book many times, but when there’s a visual, a picture of a sad little boy doesn’t come to mind like it does while reading the book.

The film also had another thing that the book didn’t: humor. It had points that make the audience laugh, some that made them cry, some that made them squirm uncomfortably, and others that made them want to grip the movie theater seats with anticipation. All of these elements together make a great film.

The movie left out many of the descriptive, mature scenes that the book included. The movie was a lot better without them.

The movie was definitely worth the search for a theater that had it playing. The best word to describe the book would be ‘good.’ This might be one of the only situations where the movie was better than the book.

Severs Corn Maze- For those who are not into scares and haunts, Sever’s Corn Maze is perfect for you. Known for their giant corn maze that changes every year, this year the maze is of “Farmer Sever”. Corn pits, corn maze, a petting zoo, pig races, even a pumpkin launcher and giant slide. All perfect for the fall season minus the scares.

Mall of America- Looking for a little bit of eeriness, Nickelodeon Universe on Oct. 21, 22, 28 and 29 from 5-10 p.m. will have “Blackout” a celebration with unlit rides, fog, and even a DJ. Discounted wristbands will be available. This will let you celebrate the creepy holiday without being too scared.

Trail of Terror- The same place as where the Renaissance Festival took place, but this time without any fairies and princesses. Trail of Terror has maze and haunted houses along with good food, karaoke and a bonfire.

Scream Town- Being in the middle of nowhere in Chaska, just the location will give you the creeps. With haunted houses, a funeral visitation, ghostly show, palm readers and great actors, you will be sure to have fun and be scared at this great Halloween haunt.

Valleyscare- Valleyscare has always been well known and a favorite. The rides, haunts, props and wandering actors will give you a great haunting experience. If you love Valley Fair and Halloween, then you will love Valley Scare.

The Eyrie, October 2012

Entertainment 19

Cover Story

Children of politicians face added challenges, surprising rewards the Minnesota senate bill for the amendment defining marriage as between one man and one woman. Jacob realizes that this is a unior Jacob Hann cannot remember controversial subject, and even though his much of the time before his father was opinions are similar to his father’s, he respects a state senator. Senator David Hann has others’ point of view. “I would keep the represented District 42 since 2003. sanction of marriage as between a man and Before that, he served on the school a woman, to be defined as marriage. If there board. comes a point that there needs to be another In the United States House of name for a union of a homosexual couple, it is Representatives, Congressman Erik Paulsen what it is. Personally, I don’t think these people votes on issues that affect every Minnesotan.

His family, including junior Briana Paulsen, live are sick or evil or anything,” said Jacob.

Jacob isn’t the only student affected by in Eden Prairie.

Junior Toria Hill can be seen door knocking a parent’s congressional campaign. In a TV ad, Congressman Erik Paulsen lectures about in District 48B for her mother. Tori Hill has the economy to his four children around his launched a campaign to unseat incumbent home. Briana is shown remarking on the math Jenifer Loon in the Minnesota House of geekiness of her father.

Representatives.

Briana has been supporting her father in his Both Senator Hann and Congressman campaigns for a seat in the United States House Paulsen are up for reelection this year, and of Representatives since he first ran in 2009.

Tori Hill is facing the uphill battle to defeat Before serving in Washington D.C., Paulsen an incumbent. Jacob, Briana, and Toria are all was in the Minnesota House of Representatives affected in unique ways.

When Jacob was younger, he helped his dad for 14 years. “Ever since I’ve been little, my campaign. “A lot of the time he would take me dad’s been in politics, so we usually help him out with campaign ads and door knocked and with him to do door knocking, campaigning went door to door for him,” she said. type things, handing out literature,” he said.

A drawback for the Paulsen family is that Now that Jacob is in high school, he has less Erik works in Washington D.C. He comes back time to volunteer. to Eden Prairie every weekend to spend time The senator is education driven and was with his family. “It’s been kind of hard on our inspired to run family not being able for school board to see him all the time, after Jacob’s older but I’m getting pretty siblings were in used to it now.” school. “My older Even with the siblings would struggles, Briana likes come home from having her father in school with just Congress. “Everyone these wild stories seems to know who he of what our is,” Briana said. teachers were The Paulsen family telling them. He supports Erik’s runs wanted to change for Congress. “It’s something about affected us; we all feel that, so he ran for like we’re all kind of school board,” part of it,” Briana said.

Jacob said.

Toria has also Jacob’s life is Briana Paulsen talks about the pros and cons of having a parent affected by his in politics.

Photo by Vivien Yue grown as a result of her mother’s campaign, father’s absence.

“I learned a lot more about the political “As a state senator, my dad is gone a lot, especially every four years; every four years he process,” she said.“Door knocking and stuff has to run again for reelection. And so he’ll be is really a good experience.” She also hands out literature regularly and attends fundraiser gone handing out literature, door knocking, parties to help Hill get elected. getting himself out there, trying to make sure This is the first time Hill has run for the he gets reelected. I won’t see him as much House of Representatives, but according then, but since he’s been an elected official to Toria, “she also ran for Eden Prairie for the majority of my life, it’s just the normal School Board so she has some experience” thing,” he said.

Senator David Hann was the chief author of campaigning.■

By Hannah Jeter

J

S

Seniors Nick Frandsen, Megan Phillips, Ally Huber and Ben Schneider (from left) receive instructions from a campaign supervisor. Phillips, Frandsen, Huber and Schneider are student volunteers for the Brian Barnes for Congress Campaign. “ The amount of learning in all the different areas has just been fantastic. All of it has been a great experience,” Frandsen said.

Photo by Melissa Berman Cover photo by Jack Graen

Students thrive through political involvement

By Hayley Brandser

Seniors Megan Phillips and Nick Frandsen are involved in the Brian Barnes campaign for Congress. Both have dedicated a lot of time and hard work to the campaign and have received significant roles as field organizers in the campaign process. The role of a field organizer includes phone calling for volunteers, finding people to work on the campaign, contacting and persuading voters and door knocking. The primary goal of a field organizer is planning events and recruiting volunteers. “It’s been a really rich experience in the political scene,” Phillips said.

Also, senior R.J. Penny was involved as a summer intern. Penny also participated in similar activities such as planning events, making phone calls and door knocking. “The campaign is really high energy and really required a lot of commitment. It was a very positive experience,” Penny said.

Getting involved in the campaign was the just beginning of the experience for student interns. It soon became a way to be a part of

Cover Story 20

The Eyrie, October 2012

something they strongly believe in. Phillips said, “I think politics is a really effective way to make a difference because legislation is going to be changing our lives every day.”

Other student interns agree. “I honestly didn’t know how out of the loop I was, politically, until I started working with the Congressional campaign,” Penny said. “It really helped me have a better understanding of the American political system.”

For Phillips and Frandsen it was one of those opportunities that just happened to come up and they decided to take it. “It has ended up being a fantastic opportunity,” Frandsen said.

“It has really helped us grow our professional networks, the people we’ve met; the connections we’ve made for our future careers are great.”

For the student field organizers, a typical week consists of many hours of hard work towards the campaign. Field organizers like Phillips and Frandsen make phone calls to potential voters on Monday through Thursday from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m., and occasionally phone calls will be made on Fridays. On Saturdays and

Sundays, there are events such as house parties.

At these events, supporters open up their home to candidates and other interested voters to ask the candidate questions.

Also on the weekends, field organizers and volunteers go door-to-door in groups to talk to voters throughout the district. “Usually people are very friendly when we come to do door knocking. People like to see high school students out and are very receptive of our message regardless of what the message might be,” Phillips said.

People tend to be appreciative of young political efficacy. “When older people see people our age out there, they get very excited,” Phillips said.

The same applies when young volunteers are making phone calls to potential voters.

“When we call, we say that we’re high school volunteers and they will be more apt to listen to us. They may hang up half way through the call, but that’s better than hanging up right away,” Frandsen said.

While being a part of the campaign process takes a lot of commitment, students involved in

the campaign still make time for school work, activities, sports and social life. “I think it’s all about time management. It’s the same with any other activity,” Phillips said.

Others working on the campaign understand that students are busy and involved in other activities. “It is very flexible for what you have time for; they are very understanding,” Frandsen said.

Being in these political campaigns have provided many unique opportunities for Frandsen and Phillips. They got to see Vice President Joe Biden and former President Bill Clinton. They have met Sen. Al Franken and Sen. Amy Klobuchar a few times as well.

The student volunteers have a constant opportunity to learn. “It really changed the way I perceive things, even on a local level,” Penny said.

They have not only learned about politics, but also important life lessons. “If you believe in something, you need to do what you can to push that forward,” Phillips said. “I firmly believe that you should take every possible opportunity to better the world.” ■

The Eyrie, October 2012

Cover Story 21

News Executive Director of Education Services StevenWest tells parents about the new tech. initiative.

An Eden Prairie parent asks superintendent Curt Tryggestad questions about i-Learn@EP.The meetings were open to all of those interested in the new technology initiative in the school district Photos by Melissa Berman

Unveiling i-Learn@EP

W

By Valerie Eliasen

e have to prepare our kids for something they haven’t seen yet,” said Steven West, Executive Director of Educational Services in the Eden Prairie School District.

These words helped introduce the digital conversion initiative called i-Learn@EP. The world today is quickly changing; the future is unknown.

The School Board approved this initiative to help prepare young people for the future. Throughout Sept., Oct. and Nov., the district is holding information sessions about the new technology initiative. These sessions give parents a chance to learn about the upcoming changes in the schools and give them a chance to voice their concerns. For those that do not attend a session, slides from the presentation are available on the Eden Prairie website.

I-Learn@EP will provide Eden Prairie students with iPads and other technologies.

It is anticipated that each student at CMS will receive a tablet device (most likely an iPad) later this school year. This device will belong to the student for the rest of the school year.

It may be used both in school and at home.

Next school year, the district hopes to also provide these devices for students at EPHS. The goal of i-Learn@EP, as shown online and at each presentation, is to engage students. The program will encourage writing, stimulate creativity and allow flexibility in the learning process. Using technology to aid the teaching process will allow students to be taught in new and

News 22

The Eyrie, October 2012

personal ways. “The kids are digital natives,” part of the textbook budget and a portion West said at a presentation at CMS on Sept. of the technology levy. Eden Prairie Schools 27. “We are the immigrants.” will lease the devices for three to four years.

Technology is something that many At the end of the lease, the district will sell children are comfortable with. West hopes the old devices and buy a new set. that this new initiative will ease learning.

At the session on Sept. 27, there were Studies have shown that similar programs mixed emotions when it came to the that have been introduced to other cities i-Learn@EP initiative. Many parents in the around the country have shown general district were impressed by the decisive plan, improvements in both engagement and test but skeptical as to certain details. Parents’ scores. questions involved the Tablet devices amount of use in and out are a way for of classroom, the changes students and that teachers will have to teachers to make, if and how broken We have to prepare communicate. devices will be replaced, our kids for New applications, whether or not families programs and will have to pay for part something they information of the device and what haven’t seen yet. can quickly be type of security will be downloaded and installed on each device.

-Steven West shared on devices.

Security concerns about With the protection and loopholes world changing were abundant at the at such a fast session. “If there is a way pace today, textbooks and informational to hack them,” said David Strait, a father in materials must constantly be updated in Eden Prairie, “the kids will find out.” Some many cases. I-Learn@EP could potentially parents aren’t sure that more technology replace textbooks. Digital textbooks can be and digital communication is a good idea. “I downloaded onto each device and updated would rather have the interaction with the much more often than hard copies. teachers,” said Eden Prairie mom Lisa Ungar.

The costs of the i-Learn@EP initiative The i-Learn@EP initiative is still in the create many questions around the community. beginning stages and there are still more Many are uncertain how the district will changes to come throughout the next few afford all of the new devices. According to years. West was realistic when he said; “We West, the i-Learn@EP initiative is projected don’t expect everything to change right away to cost about $1.5 million each year, which with new technology.” It will take time to is approximately 1.5% of the annual district know whether or not i-Learn@EP will budget. The payment plan is to reallocate benefit the schools or not. ■

‘‘ ’’

New year brings new faces New dean, teachers bring experience and passion to the high school

By Valerie Eliasen Dean Bryan Logue, new addition to the staff this year, hopes that EPHS will “stay the great school that it is.” As a dean, Logue is responsible for improving student relationships, regulating student behavior and keeping the school running efficiently.

Logue is one of 27 new staff members at EPHS this year. Among them include a new Spanish teacher, a business teacher, an art teacher, a social Logue studies teacher, a gym teacher and an English teacher.

Logue’s six years of experience as a dean in Rosemount and the previous 10 years as a physical education and health teacher have given him considerable experience with high school students. Logue chose to accept this job in Eden Prairie this year.

“It’s Eden Prairie,” Logue said. “It was an opportunity I couldn’t pass up.”

He was impressed with the student body and the Burgum sense of pride here.

“Students, staff, and administration take ownership of EPHS,” he said.

As a student in high school, Logue really enjoyed the high school “scene.” As a dean, Logue encourages students to take high school seriously.

“Get involved. Stay involved,” he said.

“Be appreciative of everything you’re offered here.”

Burgum has taught as a part time business teacher in both Minnetonka and Edina. This year he will be teaching Hinrichs careers, computer tech and business intro.

Dean Bryan Logue talks to seniorWilliam Jons in the East Commons as Logue made morning rounds.

Photos by Vivien Yue

In his free time Burgum enjoys racing sailboats and has coached the Golden Gopher Sailboat Racing team. “I hope my students will develop a lifelong passion for learning,” Burgum said.

Chelsea Hinrichs is a new Spanish teacher this year who hopes to help students become more confident in the language. She has taught at Valley View Middle School in Bloomington and Lakeview South High Weaver School. Hinrichs advice to students is that students should get involved because high school goes by fast and students should enjoy the time while they have it.

Brian Weaver has joined the social studies department this year. In the past, he has taught in Virginia and at Wayzata Middle School. He hopes that students will gain a respect for themselves and the community that they live in.

“It’s important for our students to know that failure is a part of the learning process,” Weaver said.

The art department has Ernst added Marcia Ernst as a new teacher. She has taught Family and Consumer Science and art classes in Shakopee and Wayzata. She

is familiar with the school district and is an experienced studio potter who sells much of her work. Her goal for students is for them to develop a love for pottery.

Katharine Campbell is a new teacher this year in the English Department.

She has taught English for four years in New York City, New York and Maplewood, Minnesota. It is Campbell important to her that students keep an open mind and don’t take themselves too seriously. “Good students are students who challenge themselves,” she said. “I hope to help students challenge themselves at whatever level they are at in English.”

Although Jim Williams is a new teacher at EPHS this year, he is not a new teacher to the Eden Prairie school district. He has spent the last 23 years teaching physical education and health classes at CMS. Williams likes students that are hardworking, motivated, involved and good problem Williams solvers. “Some kids dream of great accomplishments while others stay awake to do them,” Williams said. He hopes to motivate his students to achieve their goals in everything they do. ■ The Eyrie, October 2012

News 23

5 things to improve professional development

By Laurie Linscott 1. Have enthusiasm: “I do not think you can overstate that colleges choose to be here and are excited to accept you into their college and you should show up with that same enthusiasm,” business teacher Pat Kittock said.

A parent volunteer helps senior Mohammed Ali research potential future careers in the CRC.

Photos by Melissa Berman

2. Awareness of body language: People look much more at what others are communicating with their bodies than with their words so it is important that students look interested and polite while speaking to the college representatives.

3. Make eye contact: Eye contact is important because it can communicate whether someone is open and present or reserved and impersonal.

Onsite Admissions Day is fast approaching for seniors, students were required to turn in their applications to the CRC in early October.

Planning for the future

By Laurie Linscott On-site Admissions are quickly approaching, marking the beginning of a long process for seniors. The yearly event is an opportunity that no other school in the state provides.

Seniors may be admitted to up to two colleges of their choice on the spot as long as they fill the necessary requirements.

“Our students can know that our reputation is so strong that colleges come here,” principal Conn McCartan said.

The admissions will be taking place on Oct. 25 in the Old Commons and although only seniors are allowed to participate in the annual event, anyone can observe and this event can be News 24

beneficial for everyone. “I love watching the underclassmen standing at the railing watching it happen,” McCartan said.

In addition to On-site Admissions, fall is the perfect time for seniors to apply to colleges in the traditional way. This means filling out the basic applications that each school requires, writing admissions essays and recording various achievements. “You should take time to put together an application that represents the best of you,” CRC coordinator Beth Kreusch said.

Filling out an application for post-secondary schooling is a daunting task for many students.

One thing students should do to create a good application is expand and elaborate on positive

The Eyrie, October 2012

achievements. These include extracurricular activities, honors, awards, academics and rigorous courses.

It is important for students to remember that not every college is looking for the same thing.

Colleges want someone who is going to be successful in their school and someone who fits in.

“Admission officers are there to help you find your way in,” Kruesch said.

While planning for the future is intimidating to many students, the resources at EPHS are extremely helpful “You have amazing resources here,” Kreusch said.

These resources as well as other opportunities will help prepare students for their lives after high school. ■

4. Have a good, professional handshake: Having a good handshake is a skill everyone should have.

Not only does it make a good first impression on the college representatives, but it is something that will make a positive difference later in life.

5. Have natural curiosity: “Being interested in people, being engaging, being curious and just being there is huge,” Kittock said.

This applies anywhere in life, from job interviews to On-site Admissions, according to Kittock.

Kittock, who teaches business classes, talks of the importance of professional development skills.

Photo by Kelly Nitzsche

Historic site receives makeover

By Laurie Linscott Pioneer Trail is one of the busiest roads in Eden Prairie with hundreds driving on it every day.

Last year, the road was expanded and Hennepin County considered destroying the oldest barn in Eden Prairie, the Goodrich-Ramus Barn. However, the City of Eden Prairie and the Historical Society took a stand and managed to save the barn.

The historic site was built in 1942 and was originally used as a cow barn. With its Gothic

arch ceiling and the surrounding scenery of Staring Lake Park and Flying Cloud Airport, the barn is certainly a sight to see. “I fell in love with what it could be,” said the new owner Steven Schussler of Schussler Creative, Inc. Schussler Creative, Inc. is a company that owns various restaurants, retail services and entertainment facilities. These include Rainforest Café, Imperial Kitchen, T-Rex and Yak and Yeti.

Most of these places have a quirky appeal and the newly renovated barn, now known as Green Acres,

is no different. “I have a degree of whimsicality in my blood,” Schussler said of his creative style.

After originally planning to turn the barn into a storage facility for Schussler Creative, the company decided instead to open it to the public.

The barn now has a great room where the hayloft used to be, a wine cellar and many fireplaces.

The décor includes antiques such as juke boxes and candles for ambient lighting, according to Schussler.

The barn is now available for

different events such as weddings, parties, meetings and charitable or civic events. “I want the city to be able to use it for whatever they want. I want the proud citizens of Eden Prairie to have a place,” Schussler said.

Of the many features at the barn, one thing that stands out about the barn is the colorful cows out front. According to Schussler, he wanted to combine the history of it being an old cow barn with the whimsicality and laughter the cows would add to the site to make the place enjoyable. ■

The barn in all its glory, the colorful cows, the flowers and the other various farm animals add a fun touch to the barn’s landscape.The barn has been attracting the eyes of passersby after its recent renovation and Schussler Creative, Inc., the company that owns the barn, has received many notes of gratitude from people around the community.

Photos by Adrienne Manbeck

beginning, like most other things, everyone had a hard time adjusting to the change. However, as time went on, Leuer has received compliments from many people, students and staff about the switch.

largest new features for students is that the website is now mobilefriendly and adjusts to the size of any screen. “Almost everyone has something mobile in their pocket,” said Nelson.

By Audrey Altmann

Moodle

Europe 2013

Eden Prairie High School has a new head of custodial services Jim Leuer and with him comes a new system of waste management in the cafeteria. When arriving at the high school, he found that the old trash cans were in poor condition and their looks reflected poorly on the school. His idea was for new containers to be funded by both facility and PTO money, which was approved by the school.

Also, now there are many more recycling containers around both the old and new commons. The system that Leuer came up with puts all of the bins in a centralized area, making it more efficient for food staff and custodians to clean at the end of third hour. In the

By Audrey Altmann

By Laurie Linscott

This school year, a switch has been made from Moodle into Moodle 2. The tech department compares this change to an upgrade of software on any other computer. According to tech department member Jennifer Nelson, the most difficult part of the new website is that the enrollment key settings are in a different location, making it more challenging for students to correctly enroll in each specific class. Other smaller alterations have been made on teachers’ side of the website. This has presented some challenges for teachers, but have now been fixed. One of the

This year students have the chance for students to explore Europe. The countries being travelled to include Austria, Liechtenstein, Switzerland and Germany. Students will take a cable car up the Alps, hike in the Alps, see the site of Napoleon’s old headquarters, explore the Sound of Music gardens and tour the Disney Castle. The group will leave this summer on June 10 and return on June 27. The cost is $3800 if students sign up to travel by Dec. 1. There are packets available with additional information in room 303 with Mr. Murray.

Recycling

Wallenberg

By Ethan Nelson English teacher Linda Wallenberg recently received the Royal Order of the Polar Star from the king of Sweden, Carl Gustav XVI. This award is given internationally to people who promote the Swedish language and culture throughout the world. “I received this honor for my life’s work in Swedish culture,” she said.

Wallenberg has taught Swedish at the Concordia Language Village for 31 years and also serves on the Swedish National Advisory Board at Gustavus Adolphus University.

She was honored at the governor’s mansion where she met with the king, queen and other award recipients.

Submitted photo

The Eyrie, October 2012

News 25

Editorials

Voting is a responsibility, not an option

By Adrienne Manbeck

staff editorial

Artwork by Veera Vasandani

i-Learn money misplaced

T

he Eden Prairie school system recently announced its digital conversion plan, newly titled the “i-Learn initiative.”

The proposed plan is, in a nutshell, to give all CMS students iPads by the beginning of second semester and to EPHS students by next school year.Though the plan may appear beneficial to learning on the surface, in the long run replacing traditional textbooks and computers with iPads will not aid students.

This year, students and teachers are using iPads in class more than ever. However, some students have become frustrated with the iPads. They will severely impede learning.

The devices aren’t the best tool for writing. They can be valuable tools for examining pictures closely, but iPads place students at a disadvantage. Writing with an iPad is clumsy, takes time to finish and makes academic formatting impossible.

Additionally, many websites are not properly formatted to be displayed on iPads.

Teachers will need to find websites that are not awkward and time-consuming to use.

Also, iPads do not support Flash, so many educational websites can not be used.

With iPads, there comes the possibility of communicating electronically. Students could respond to teachers’ questions online instead of discussing the question verbally during class or turning in a written response.

Though this will make it likelier that more introverted students will participate in class, verbal discussion allows everyone class to hear and respond immediately to one another. By requiring verbal participation rather than electronic, students become better at articulating thoughts and interacting with one another.

Many seem to think that iPads will last longer and will prevent the district from

Editorials 26

The Eyrie, October 2012

needing to buy new textbooks every few years. iPads, however, are less durable than textbooks, and because the budget for each student’s iPad is $50-100, broken iPads would be expensive to replace.

Nearly every student at CMS and EPHS has access to a computer at school.

Desktop computers and laptops have more computing power and drive space and allow students to do actual research and writing.

There is no need to purchase iPads as Eden Prairie schools already have devices that can do more to benefit students.

Also, there are inherent risks in giving iPads to all students. By allowing students to more easily communicate with each other, cyber bullying becomes an issue. Though surely the district will respond appropriately to instances of bullying, no student should be given an extra opportunity to bully.

A large part of the reason behind the i-Learn program is to keep up with other schools. Other districts in Minnesota are adopting plans similar to Eden Prairie’s plan. School districts like Minnetonka and Lake Forest, have initiatives giving every student an iPad. Eden Prairie Schools should not purchase iPads because other schools are doing so. Waiting to examine how this worked in different schools would be a better option and would not leave students at a disadvantage if the program was not successful.

Eden Prairie does not need more flashy technology. Students and teachers already have enough technology. What can truly make Eden Prairie Schools better are good teachers and an engaging, practical curriculum. The money placed in the i-Learn initiative could go toward acquiring better material and tools. ■

For as long as I can remember, I have been excitedly awaiting my 18th birthday. Not because I couldn't wait for independence or adulthood but rather because I couldn't wait for my chance to have a say in the future of our country. I love elections.

Still, I’ve always loved the opportunity I’m Just Saying an election provides for every member of our society to determine the future leaders of the U.S. And, as a little girl, I thought that voting was bound to be a pleasure akin to eating ice cream and cake for breakfasts.

After all, elections, like dessert for breakfast, are a rare treat.

Every November, I would conduct fake elections with all of my teddy bears, eager for them to also have a say. When my turn came to select my preferred candidate, I made sure to form the perfect check mark on my handmade ballot.

I was so excited to vote that I demanded that my dad pick me up early from school on Election Day so I could accompany him to the polls. Needless to say, he never got to keep the red “I voted” sticker.

I still am excited to turn 18 and step into that small, curtained voting booth for the first time; unfortunately, I will have to wait another 4 years to be able to vote in a presidential election. But this is not the case for many of my peers.

Despite the fact that many of my friends can vote, few of them are excited to vote. In fact, less than 50 percent of young adults between 18 and 24 voted in the 2008 election, a lower percentage than every other age group. There is no reason that someone shouldn’t want to vote in the future our country especially when the personal cost is so low. Even if the lines are so long that people are pouring out of the doors, voting doesn’t take more than an hour, and it’s free. The only real challenge a voter faces is deciding which candidate best fits the needs of our county.

Voting is an incredible, exciting opportunity we have in the U.S. But it’s more than just that. It is a responsibility that every eligible citizen has towards the country. Thousands of people in places like Syria, Libya and China are dying to get the right to vote. It’s time for us grow up, enjoy the privileges we have in the U.S. and fulfill our responsibility to the country and the world by voting.

This is a rotating column. For more columns, visit theeyrie.org

Student ignorance inexcusable With the release of the iPhone 5, people have even more opportunities to learn about the world. However, the phone is seen more as a gaming or social media device

By Maddie Chicoine In this age of advanced technology and communication, students should be more aware of the world around them, not less. Instead of using technology to further themselves and their connection with the outside world, students use it to check the endless cycle of Twitter and Facebook, to play Angry Birds and Temple Run. There is no longer an excuse for ignorance.

On Sept. 12, two important pieces of news were circulating.

During the course of the previous evening, the American ambassador to Libya had been killed because of anger over an anti-Muslim YouTube video. The news was so current that it did not make the morning paper.

On the irrelevant side of things, Apple had just released the iPhone 5.

The new iPhone was the topic of conversation for many

high school students that day, far more so than the death of America’s Libyan Ambassador J. Christopher Stephens.

This ignorance is too prominent in our society not to address. The important news of the day should be far more relevant than the iPhone 5.

This barely updated piece of technology will not cause a national crisis, or rally antiAmericans together. It does not have any possibility of causing a war in the Middle East.

Surely these things are more important than a new cellular device. A device that can assist students in connecting with the outside world, ironically, distracted them from the important news of the day.

Most likely, many students with the new iPhone did not know that “The New York Times” has an election app to keep you updated. Perhaps many didn’t realize that they

could use their 4G to access news websites and discover, for what may be the first time, what is going on the world.

Even Apple realizes the importance of keeping up with current events. The newsstand app, a permanent app that comes with the iPhone allows the user to download news apps. Instead of trying to delete it in an attempt to make room

for Facebook and Twitter on the front page, take advantage of it and download a few digital newspapers.

Americans need to understand that there are other countries and people out there.

These events affect everyone.

News is relevant and even events in places as far away a Libya can affect us in a great way, however indirectly.

Photo by Ethan Nelson

Take advantage of close, great cities

By Craig Hollenbeck I usually talk about global issues when presented with an opportunity such as this, but today I simply want to urge you to take advantage of some of the great things that the city of Minneapolis has to offer. Not meant to be a master list, here are a few things that I hope EPHS students experience before you graduate.

Staff Column

•Attend a concert at First Avenue. There is no better venue in which to see a concert than this grungy treasure of the Twin Cities, which is rightly regarded as one of the best rock clubs in the US. •See a play at the Guthrie Theater after you have ventured out onto the cantilevered Endless Bridge for sweeping views of the Mississippi River. Afterward, walk across the famed Stone Arch Bridge and have lunch at Wilde Roast Café along St. Anthony Main.

•Grab a Nice Ride rental and bike your way around Lake Calhoun, Lake of the Isles and Lake Harriet. Summer at Calhoun means lunch at Tin Fish, or morning at Lake Harriet in any season requires a stop at nearby Patisserie 46, whose pastries and baked goods are art for the eyes and a delight for the stomach.

•If you prefer a lake with a bit more diversity and one where you feel as if you can reach up and touch the planes, stroll around Lake Nokomis to walk off the calories from the huge slice of pizza you just had at Fat Lorenzo’s.

Nicollet Ave. and, well, eat your way down the street. Rainbow Chinese, Pancho Villa or the Bad Waitress? Yes, but do yourself a favor and grab perhaps the biggest bargain in town when you pay just a couple of dollars for a pork banh mi at the Jasmine Deli.

•I love Barnes & Noble as much as you do, but go to Uptown and check out Magers & Quinn Booksellers. Great selection, good prices and it smells like a bookstore ought to. Lunch options abound in Uptown, but head north on Lyndale Ave. a few blocks to indulge in the tastiness that is French Meadow Bakery & Cafe.

•Have breakfast at a Latin Americanflavored favorite. Maria’s Café is Colombian-themed and their corn pancakes must be tasted to be believed. For some Cuban cuisine, head to Victor’s 1959 Café, where you can experience the bliss that is an order of Victor’s mango pancakes. If neither of these appeals to you (and seriously, what is wrong with you?), then try a traditional classic, The Egg and I.

•Speaking of tastiness, get a group of people together and sample all there is to offer at the Midtown Global Market. You’ll have a little bit of everything, but please be sure to visit Manny’s Tortas and order a Manny’s Special.

•See works by Van Gogh, Rembrandt, El Greco and more at the Minneapolis Institute of Arts. Then head to Eat Street on

This is a rotating staff column. Staff members interested in writing a column should contact the Eyrie at theeyrie.ep@gmail.com.

See me if you want more ideas, as these are just a few thoughts. Minneapolis is a great city, so take advantage of it!

The Eyrie, October 2012

Editorials 27

point/counterpoint

Should we re-elect Obama?

Obama will increase Romney will help jobs and rights strengthen country

A

by Ve era Vas a nd

re you better off than you were before President Barack Obama took office?”

This question has been thrown around a lot recently, and nobody has seemed to come to consensus on the answer.

While the answer may differ for everyone individually, the United States of America is much better off now that Obama is the president. When Obama was sworn in he inherited one of the worst economies since the Great Depression, and he has undoubtedly turned it around.

The bailout of Wall Street was one of his first actions as a president. This was something that needed to be done as the economy was close to collapse. The bailout was able to save the United States’ economy from falling into a deeper recession.

The auto industry was also in need of a bailout, and Obama did not turn his back on Detroit when much of the country did.

Obama’s bailout saved hundreds of thousands of jobs along with saving the auto industry as a whole In his first months, the economy was struggling as the GDP, a marker of an economy’s output, was around negative five percent.

By 2010, the GDP was steadily increasing, and it is still slowly, but surely, increasing.

Under Obama, t h e economy is back to producing new jobs and continues to create them.

Foreclosures are also ork Ar tw lower than they were before Obama took office.

One key piece of legislation

that passed under Obama was the Affordable Care Act. This bill enables people with preexisting conditions to get coverage, allows young adults 26 years old and under to stay on their parent’s plan and provides millions of Americans with free access to preventive screenings, which can help catch serious medical conditions earlier on.

If these medical conditions are discovered early enough, the need to spend enormous sums of money later on treatment can be eliminated.

Before the Affordable Care Act, many Americans would not get preventive screenings because of the cost. This bill will help Americans receive better healthcare at a more affordable price for years to come. It also gives women access to different forms of birth control without a co-pay or deductible.

On the social side of things, same-sex marriage has become a huge issue in this year’s election and is something some politicians shy away from confronting. Obama eliminated “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell,” which barred openly gay, lesbian and bisexual citizens from serving in the military.

He is the first sitting president to support same-sex marriage.

Every citizen of this country should be treated e q u a l l y, a n d O b a m a understands that.

Sure, Obama hasn’t been able to fulfill all of his campaign promises, but no president in the history of the U.S. has. He has, however, made the U.S. a stronger nation, and a better place to live, and will continue to do so if he is re-elected this year.■

Editorials 28

By Katie Pylipow

I

t’s time for change. Presidential candidate governor Mitt Romney’s policies and plans will bring the change that the U.S. has been waiting for the past four years.

Romney believes that Americans need to work hard to get what they want. But, right now in the U.S., citizens aren’t able to keep the money they worked so hard for.

People working 70 hours a week have to give a very large portion of their pay check to people too lazy to look for a job. Romney plans to cut taxes therefore letting citizens keep the money they deserve.

Our federal government has way too much power. Most of the time, there is no one right answer for all 50 states. It is ridiculous to think the immigration policy should be the same for Arizona, which has a high immigration rate, and Iowa, a state with a low immigration rate. Romney will relinquish more power to state governments so each state can make unique policies that work the best for them.

The U.S. was founded on the ideals of a free market economy.

That means presidents shouldn’t be able to go take

an i

By Jack Graen

The Eyrie, October 2012

over companies just because they are doing poorly. While the government needs to have a watchful eye on business, there are too many restrictions on business, restricting trade. Romney is sick of the

government constricting business and knows free enterprise leads to increased trade.

Unless Romney is elected president, in 2014 everyone will be forced by the government to purchase some form of health insurance. The government shouldn’t be able to force anyone to buy anything; this is supposed to be a free country.

While many people are excited by the idea that everyone will have healthcare, they don’t realize the money side of the equation. Some people are being forced to buy something that they don’t have room for in their budget, but they don’t qualify for free healthcare by the government.

On the other hand, people who have an extremely low or no income will have their healthcare subsidized by the government.

But the government gets most of the money to fund healthcare from taxes. This means, people are giving up a portion of their income to make sure people who smoke, are too lazy to get a job or have drug addictions can receive medical care.

Our allies and our enemies alike don’t know where the U.S. stands on crucial issues.

R o m n e y ’s foreign policy will provide clarity and resolve. The basis of his

foreign policy is American strength, primarily in our military. The U.S. has been at its best when the military was its strongest.

Romney will restore the ideals on which the U.S. was founded and do what its truly best for all 50 states.■

She said

Trick or Treating in high school: Immature or awesome?

She said

By Audrey Altmann and Kelly Nitzsche Audrey Altmann: I can’t wait to go trick or treating this year!

Kelly Nitzsche:You’re kidding right? Trick or treating as a junior?

AA: It’s free candy. What’s not to love?

KN:You don’t think it’s weird being 16 and still going out to beg people for candy?

AA: It is not begging, thank you very much. If I spend time and money on an awesome costume, then I deserve a ton of candy.

KN: That’s ridiculous. No one owes you any candy. Buy your own bag with money that you made.

AA:Yes they do. That’s how you get into the Halloween spirit. Plus, buying my own candy defeats the whole purpose.

KN: What about Halloween parties or haunted houses?

Wouldn’t you rather do more age appropriate activities like that?

AA: No way! I can do that later.

I only have two years left before adulthood.

KN: Is that a joke? You’re 16!

You’re not a kid anymore.

AA: I’m still a kid at heart. Which means I still hold the right to go peoples’ houses and ask for candy.

KN: What? Trick or treating is definitely not a right to anyone.

AA: Well it should be. I think they

should add another amendment to the Constitution.

KN:You are making no sense right now.

AA: Stop trying to ruin my childhood, Kelly.

KN: What are you talking about?

AA: Everyone knows that life is way better when you have a bag full of candy.

KN:You don’t feel bad taking candy that’s meant for little kids?

AA: I’m not taking it from them. It’s not as if I’m stealing it from their bags! I’m just taking whatever they leave behind.

KN: Don’t you think that adults won’t want to give you candy if you’re in high school?

AA: Cool parents will give me some.

KN: Cool parents will also laugh in your face.

AA: Hey, as long as I get some chocolate, then I don’t care about who’s laughing at me.

KN: Aren’t you embarrassed to show up at a strangers house in full costume just to get a fun size candy bar?

AA: No. Not if I’m getting about 20 fun sized candy bars.

KN: I just think that once you’re in high school you shouldn’t go trick or treating anymore.

AA: Whatever. If all I have to do is put on a costume, then the candy is totally worth it.

Opinionettes Crowded Hallways

Furbies

Don’t you just love it when, after a long day of school, you stumble up or down the stairs to the East Entrance, and what should take you mere seconds to get out the door ends up taking you what seems like forever? You say, “excuse me” but no one seems to hear you. So you have to literally squeeze between people. And then you see an opening in the crowd, and you make a break for it. But someone else chooses that exact moment to turn around and you run right into them or their oversized backpack! Move out of the way, people.You’re not the only one who goes to this school.

Some of us students remember receiving Furbies when we were about 4 or 5 years old, the electronic robot that resembled and owl or gremlin like creature. Looks like Furbies are making a comeback. They used to be so cool and this big “It” toy when we were young, and now predicted to be the big “It” toy this holiday season. I do not understand why though. These Furbies are going for almost $75 and are already beginning to sell out of certain stores. Retail price used to be $35.99 in 1998 and now is $59.99. What I do not get is why this are predicted to be so popular, it is literally a giant fluff ball that does not shut up. Why would a parent want to spend over $50.00 on a toy, that child will play with it for a week, and then leave it on the floor. Give them a Barbie or a Hot Wheels instead.

By Elizabeth Kenyon

By Kelly Nitzsche

Cookie Craze

By Veera Vasandani

You know what’s really good? The school’s cookies.

They are just fabulous. Warm, gooey, chocolatey– please stop me before I drool all over the keyboard. I just don’t understand why it closes after second hour. It’s just plain cruel, y’know? It should be considered a crime to deprive students of sweet, sweet cookies for so long. During the beginning of Photo by Veera Vasandani the school year, when waking up in the morning takes every ounce of my willpower, the only thing that would get me going are tantalizingly fantabulous chocolate chip cookies. In fact, it would just be so great if the cookie store was open 24 hours. Someone please make this happen.

Halloween Costumes

By Audrey Altmann

When did it become acceptable to wear basically nothing for a Halloween costume? When it’s only 30 degrees outside, I want something on that’s going to keep me warm, but now girls wear short skirts and way too revealing shirts. Dressing this way makes little to no sense to me, particularly for high schoolers. A 16 year old shouldn’t be wearing something that would fit a nine year old better. All of the police officers and superheroes that I’ve seen have been completely covered in clothes.

When I think of Halloween, I think about fun costumes, getting scared and eating candy. If I go to parties or dances, I want to have fun with my friends, not see girls in trashy outfits.

The Eyrie, October 2012

Editorials 29

Sports The Eagles players and Head Coach Mike Grant gaze onto the field from the sidelines in a game they won 42-7 against rival Minnetonka. The varsity team has a roster of nearly a hundred kids.

Multi-sport ath Is playing more than one sport a reality at EPHS?

W

By John Sullivan

hen Minnesota high school sports are brought up in conversation, it is rare that Eden Prairie is not mentioned. The powerhouse can be found near the top of virtually every sport’s state rankings.

Eden Prairie’s success is not too hard to explain; in a school of nearly 3,200 kids, there is bound to be some decent athletes.

The question under the radar is if the size of our school hurts kids trying to compete at the highest level in multiple sports.

EPHS has had a variety of talented athletes come through the school over the years. Competition is high in every sport, making it a challenge for a multi-sport athlete to bloom.

“Playing multiple sports allows you to use assets learned in one game to benefit you in the other,” senior Emma Claire Fontenot said.

Fontenot has benefited from this idea, going above and beyond as she plays considerable roles on the soccer and lacrosse teams. Fontenot is committed to play college lacrosse at Notre Dame.

Sports 30

The Eyrie, October 2012

“It demands time, commitment and of success as an elite multi-sport athlete. sacrifice, but it is something I am willing to Throughout his high school career, he has put forth because of my passion and love for been able to play both football and basketball what I do,” Fontenot said. “I wouldn’t have it at the highest level. Shaeffer was named the any other way.” captain of both the football and basketball On the other teams for his senior hand is senior Luke year.

Lind, who recently “Being able to play announced his basketball and football Committing was commitment has helped me develop to play college into a better all around awesome, but it baseball at North athlete,” Shaeffer said. definitely came Dakota State Long before soUniversity. Lind called “super schools” with a sacrifice gave up hockey like EPHS and Wayzata having to give up following his junior took over, Lakeville season to focus on High School was at hockey. baseball rather than peak attendance, and -Luke Lind trying to juggle a state sports power. in the hours of However, due to the offseason training it size of the student body takes just to make and lacking availability the hockey team’s roster. His choice paid off of necessary supplies, a community vote split with a scholarship to NDSU, but also came the school into North and South during the at a price.

2005-2006 school year.

“Committing was awesome, but it Brian Vossen, the head coach of the definitely came with a sacrifice having to give currently undefeated Lakeville North up hockey,” Lind said. football team admits that depth and offseason Senior Grant Shaeffer has had his share training has been a challenge to the athletics

‘‘

’’

Photo by Jack Graen

letes department because of the amount of multisport athletes. Ultimately, he believes that the opportunity for members of the football team to play other sports has benefited them.

“There is no need to have one school or more kids,” Vossen said. “We have what we need and want to find a way to win with it.”

In contrast to Vossen, EPHS Athletic Director and head coach of the football team Mike Grant believes that staying as a large school has plenty of benefits.

His points mainly revolved around the costs and how that contributed to the failure of previous attempts by Hopkins, Edina and Bloomington to split schools.

“The cost is much lower for the entire district,” Grant said. “If you think about something expensive like booking ice for hockey, instead of just scheduling for a girls and boys team, you now have doubled that.”

Grant believes that the size of EPHS really does not impact the amount of kids playing multiple sports. His theory is that if and athlete is good enough and loves their sport enough, they can play.

Grant has a clear opinion on the number of multi-sport athletes at EPHS. “I don’t think that there are any more at other schools than there are here,” Grant said.■

Submitted Photo Senior Emma Claire Fontenot shows off her skills winning a battle for the ball against the opposing defender.

■

Photo by Melissa Berman Senior Grant Shaeffer runs through a tackle after an interception in an Eagles win against Minneapolis South.

The Eyrie, October 2012

Sports 31

The team has moved on without the missing players and has had a winning season of their own.

Photo by Jack Graen

Opting out of Eden A group of players decide to leave behind their team to pursue soccer at a ‘higher level’

By Jack Graen

T

his fall, 45 of the best boys high school soccer players all over Minnesota made a decision to leave their team behind in order to play at the next level. They are playing in a U.S. Soccer development program called the Minnesota Thunder Academy. Six former Eden Prairie players, including four players from the 2011 state championship team, chose to participate in this program and are not playing for the high school team this season.

Seniors Medo Youseff, Natalio Blanche and David Bernabo all play on the MTA team. Junior Jacob Sphatt and sophomore Sean Bernabo also participate in the Sports 32

MTA program. In addition, junior Nathan Gordon is now playing in the development program at Shattuck-St.Mary’s.

There are benefits to playing for MTA. The MTA team practices five times a week and travel every other weekend. The season lasts ten months, and the players get two months off during the summer.

“It’s a really competitive soccer team,” Sphatt said. “You get a lot of coaching and a lot of scouting.”

Sphatt’s teammates understood his decision to leave, but there were some unfavorable opinions about his decision.

“The high school experience is part of growing up,” boys varsity soccer coach Vince Thomas said

The Eyrie, October 2012

“For that reason, I think it’s a little over the top.”

The players did this mainly for more coaching, but it is also to gain more exposure. Thomas was happy for the players who went to play for MTA, but he is concerned whether or not they are getting what they need out of it. U.S. Soccer is only searching for a handful of players out of 4,000 nationwide, so the odds of the EPHS players making the final team are not high.

All of this comes with a price.

These players not only left their team behind, but they left their teammates behind. “I thought that it’d be kind of a big blow because they were impact players last year,” senior captain Chris Hurst said.

Hurst is a returning player from last year’s state championship team.

The members of the high school team this season were unhappy at first with the players

who left, but they do understand their reasons for leaving. “Good for them for trying to become better soccer players, but it’s nice to play for a community,” Hurst said.

Obviously, there were a lot of factors that went into the decisions of the MTA players to skip their high school soccer season, coaching and scouting being the top reasons.

“I do miss my friends,” said Sphatt. That has been the hardest thing for these players. They have to leave the whole high school soccer experience, and friends they played with growing up, behind.

Some of the players have been player together since grade school.

“It’s a little selfish on their part to leave us all behind” said senior center back Brandon Daly. Also important is that these players will not have the chance to play for another state championship for their high school.■

Q&A: Madison Fazio

by Melissa Berman

lot harder.

Melissa Berman: What made you want to be the Eagle?

MB: What is wearing the suit like?

Madison Fazio: I thought it would be a really good experience to support my school. I hadn’t really been involved with anything with the school.

MB: What so far has surprised you about being the Eagle?

MF: Every little thing you do it’s really hard. There’s not a lot of air and you get so hot. And all the little things, like running with the cheerleaders with the flags, are a

already and I just have to put the Eagle head on.

MB: What is it like interacting with little kids at games?

MF: I’m getting more used to it.You can’t really see that much. The cheerleaders give me some breaks because it gets so hot inside it.

MF: It’s always funny to see the kids’ reactions. Some kids want to see me, but they’re too shy.

MB: How long does it take for you to get the suit on?

MF: I can do it pretty fast; I usually have my tights on

many things you can do, though.

MB: When do you show up before games?

MF: For away games I ride with the football team and the cheerleaders, so it depends on how far away the school is. Usually a couple of hours.

MB: What do you like to do to pump up the crowd?

MB: What’s it like being down on the field at football games amongst all the excitement?

MF: I try to change it up because I want to make sure that people don’t get bored of me. There’s only so

MF: It’s a lot of fun at home games because everyone’s there, like the drum line, the cheerleaders. Plus there’s a big turnout.

Photo by Melissa Berman

5 healthy tips to boost Trash Talk A Returning Column Music motivates

By John Sullivan

2

oike

Drink lots of water. One of the most important things to do is to drink enough water every day.

The human body runs on water, just like a car runs on fuel. So if a person’s body feels that it is dehydrated it will try

to retain the water that is inside the body already.

This can lead to tiredness, weight gain, sickness and headaches.

Drinking water has also been proven to increase performance in sports.

B ron

’’

1

ame yK to b

‘‘

By Jean- Pierre Tossa

Pho

Some people just cannot go that far back with their musical Music is a proven motivational taste and need something more factor to an athlete’s performance. modern. A recent trend that I Players’ iPods and warm-up music have grown fond of is bumping usually play a big role in the event. some techno jams. Last season, These days, a personal kids have gone favorite of mine in all different was “Disco directions with Pogo.” When their preyou play it loud As of late, the game music. enough the song As of late, the is electrifying gangster rap gangster rap your body. that I have been that I have been Finally, I hearing just have a plan for hearing just does not do the athletes that does not do the the trick for are cooler than me. I cannot a cucumber. I trick for me understand have noticed how loud, that country obnoxious has become music about more and more drugs, violence popular with and sex can get an athlete to peak kids. I would just throw on some performance. There are a few Kenny Chesney singing about routes that I want to suggest. being down on the beach to calm The first path is some old myself down. school rock and roll. There is Music is truly a motivator and nothing better than hitting warmcan have a great influence on the ups to the famous ACDC when the way an athlete comes to play. I entire place is just rumbling. have given you three choices. The Maybe you can throw in some next time I hear the likes of Wiz Guns and Roses for good measure. Khalifa coming from our school This kind of music does not have a gym or locker rooms, I will not lot of meaning but gets you ready be happy. to go.

athletic performance

Don’t skip breakfast.

Breakfast is the most important meal of the day. It is the meal your body gets most of its energy from, while lunch and dinner only help replenish that energy. Also, by not eating in the morning you are more likely to gain weight. This is because your body thinks it is starving and holds on to any calories it may acquire.

3

Get enough sleep.Your body needs to rest so it can repair whatever damage it has acquired over the course of the day. The

reason your body gets stronger from exercise is because it is being damaged. So your body responds by rebuilding itself stronger than before. Most of the repair work and healing in your body is done during sleep. Sleeping at least eight hours every night has been shown to increase performance in athletics.

4

Use a smaller plate for meals.

Most of the time when people are getting food they tend to fill their plates. This commonly leads people to eat more calories than they should, because they try to finish everything that is on their plate to show their appreciation for the food. When people use a smaller plate, they fill their plate with less food and don’t go over the amount of calories they are supposed to eat.

5

Eat green. Fruits and vegetables are the staples of a healthy diet.

They are high in many vitamins and minerals, which can largely reduce risk of disease. Vegetables also give the most energy when eaten because they get energy directly from the sun instead of passing through other organisms.

The Eyrie, October 2012

Sports 33

Featured Athletes Junior Kira Zubar won the 500 meter freestyle at the state meet last year, and is well on her way to repeat. Her season goal is to take the state title once again.

Junior Cal Lawton is the front runner this year. After several top five finishes in the low 16 minute time range in the five kilometer race, Lawton has proven to be a valuable asset to the team.

Photo by Melissa Berman

Photo by Melissa Berman

Junior Kendall Jacobus was recently named All- Conference Honorable Mention for soccer.

Jacobus has been playing soccer for years. “When I was little, I was always playing with a ball, so my parents just signed me up,� she said.

Photo by Melissa Berman

Sports 34

The Eyrie, October 2012

Sophomore Samantha Schnirring is consistently the number one runner on varsity and ran a 14:58.3 for a four kilometer race at the Metro Invitational this year, placing third, dropping over a minute from her time at the same meet last year.

Photo by Melissa Berman

Senior Maddie Reese is the setter for the volleyball team. Reese has learned a lot from her success in volleyball, including “how to become a better teammate and take criticism.”

On the first game of this football season, fans in the stands witnessed number 37, junior Dan Fisher, running for four touchdowns.

“Although at times football can be difficult, experiencing the games makes all of the sacrifice worthwhile,” he said.

Photo by Melissa Berman

Senior Michael Vuolo lead the team in assists. Vuolo’s favorite thing about the soccer team was the atmosphere. “The whole team is pretty close, so it’s fun to go to practice every day,” he said.

Photo by Vivien Yue

Senior captain Layla Safinia led the tennis team to a successful tennis season. “It’s a sport I can play for the rest of my life,” she said.

During the season, she typically played number three doubles.

Photo by Jack Graen

Photo by Jack Graen

For regular sports coverage on all sports and all players, visit theeyrie.org and follow @The_Eyrie on Twitter.

The Eyrie, October 2012

Sports 35

Profiles Profiles 36

The Eyrie, October 2012

Royalty

By Katie Pylipow

Emma Claire Fontenot As if playing on varsity lacrosse and varsity soccer, being involved in NHS, Student Council, Key

Club and FCA and taking many A.P. classes isn’t enough, senior Emma Claire Fontenot can now add “Homecoming Queen” to her résumé.

About being elected to Homecoming Court, Fontenot said, “I had heard from people that they voted for me, but I didn’t assume anything. I was very surprised.” After the shock of being on court set in, Fontenot had an even bigger surprise coming.

Before crowning the queen, teacher ambassador Steve Cwodzinski told all of the girls on court to remember this moment, no matter what happened. Then he walked back and forth behind the potential queens, and then he finally placed the tiara in Fontenot’s lap. “My world went blank. All sound stopped.

My heart dropped,” Fontenot said. “In a way it didn’t really hit me but it was like, ‘Is this real life?’”

Emotionally overwhelmed, Fontenot looked out into the audience to see her mom’s face. “I saw her crying and that just made my heart melt.” Surprised her legs even worked, Fontenot made her way down the stairs.

“Standing up there with Salam was magical. He deserved it so much and to be able to share that honor with him is just incredible.”

Salam Bachour In a school of 3,500 students, there is one name that stands out. “To be chosen by my peers it’s a

huge honor and it’s really humbling,” senior Homecoming King Salam Bachour said.

Originally, Bachour thought his friends were kidding when they said they were going to vote for him, but their jokes became a reality when Bachour’s name was called at the pep fest, announcing he was on homecoming court. “It was really surprising and shocking when my name got called, but I didn’t think there was any chance I would get King,” Bachour said.

After teacher ambassador Pam Skaar-Meier walked behind the row of possible kings a few times, the crown was placed on Bachour’s head. “My heart started pounding really fast. It was really exciting and overwhelming,” he said.

His sense of school spirit is evident, as he is involved in multiple clubs and varsity tennis. “I absolutely love our school. To go to the pep fest and see everyone assimilated into one big gymnasium and to be cheering, going crazy, and to see the red and the black is awesome,” Bachour said.

“It’s not like being King makes me any more special than anyone else. Every person on that court really deserved it. They are all awesome people. For me to win is really such an honor,” he said.

Photo by Jack Graen

The Eyrie, October 2012

Profiles 37

Variety

10 things you don’t know about:

Coca-Cola

By Elizabeth Kenyon

1. It cleans oil stains when mixed with cat litter.

2. It will explode when Mentos are dropped in the can 3. It neutralizes the pain of a jellyfish sting (a lessdisgusting alternative to peeing on the wound).

Across: 1. Friday nights, Stadium 4. Warm, Clothing 6. Warm S’mores 9. Orange, Round, Carving 10. Colorful, Crunchy

Down: 2. Scary, Trick-or-Treat 3. August, September...

5. Spring, Winter, Summer...

7. Pie, Orchard, Cider 8. Dress, Dancing, Pictures

Monthly horoscope: Libra

Sept. 24-Oct. 23

L

By Audrey Altmann

ibra’s tend to be romantic, social, and easygoing. But, they can also be indecisive and gullible. Their symbol is a scale, representing the balance in their emotions.

This month, Libra, be on the lookout because you’re going to make a new friend in an unexpected place.

Your social skills and easygoing personality will flourish to reach out to someone who wouldn’t see it coming.

But, don’t forget to have lots of fun this month for your birthday! Go out and have a night out with your close friends. You deserve

Variety 38

The Eyrie, October 2012

it! You’ll have no trouble being in the spotlight for the day, getting gifts and attention from your friends and family.

Don’t get too caught up on yourself though; remember t h e people around you and give back all the love that they give you!

Libra Celebrities: Zac Efron-Oct. 18 Will Smith-Sept. 25 Hilary Duff-Sept. 28 Kim Kardashian-Oct. 21

4. It kills bugs.

5. If you pour it all over you in the shower, wait a couple minutes, and then rinse it off, it can take away the results of being sprayed by a skunk.

And it’s good for you hair, so get it in there, too!

6. Drink it to help get rid of nausea, diarrhea, and sore throats.

7. Use it to clean toilet bowls.

8. It can get gum out of your hair by putting the gum-infested part of your hair in a bowl or cup full of Coke for a couple of minutes.

9. If you poor a can of flat Coke into your hair and let it stand for a few minutes before washing it out, you will have “outstanding” curls.

10. Boil a can of Coke and drink it to get rid of congestion during a cold.

Photo by Katie Pylipow

11800 Singletree Lane Suite 200, Eden Prairie, MN 55344 (952)903-9484

The Eyrie, October 2012