The Eyrie: March Issue • 2015

THE EYRIE Vol. 54. No. 4 // March 2015

Eden Prairie High School

Olive’s Fresh Pizza Bar

New pizza parlor in Excelsior impresses our staff.

Embracing faillure to achieve glory.

20

14

Hats off To You...Not!

A rebuttle to the hoods and hats policy at EPHS.

26

Polar Plunge

Carter Bykowski

34

14

Students chill for charity.

EPHS Alumnus makes it big in the NFL.

MN DFL Chair

Ken Martin remembers his years at EPHS.

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! s e l g a E k pring Brea

Happy S

Who’s excited for a week long break with some nice weather? I think we all are. This issue features personal success and defeat stories, a profile on an EPHS student with a family owned ice cream shop, and two great opinions on the dress code. Be sure to tune into the feature section for a great, springy DIY and a photo essay on students jobs. We wish everyone a wonderful spring break and we hope you enjoy this years fourth edition of The Eyrie! Do something great over break.

XOXO, Hannah & Luci

STAFF Editors-in-chief

Hannah Brandser Luci Bessinger

Managing Editor Luci Bessinger

Chief of Photography Trevor Stansberry

Editor of Design Zoë Glenn

Advertising Mangers Luci Bessinger Anthony Rosa

Business Manager Andrew Donohue

Website Editor Amie Stager Claire Hassler

Opinion Editor

Jean-Pierre Tossa

Sports Editor Ally Thorsen

Adviser

Policies News Editor Max Chao

A & E Editor

Elizabeth Kenyon

Cover Story Editor Hannah Brandser

Feature Editor Sheridan Swee

Profile Editor Gillian Holte

Writers & Photographers Abbey Mertz Abby Warrick Ally Thorsen Amie Stager Andrew Donohue Anthony Rosa Dustin Wolf Grace Kasbohm Hannah Belongie Kristina Briant Murphy Hullett-Nelson Sara Michael Yasmin Chavez

on the cover

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.

To submit letters or comments, stop by room 208 during third hour or email comments to theeyrie.ep@ gmail.com.

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

Printer The Eyrie is printed by the Eden Prairie Schools Printing Services, partnered with Loffler CompaniesShana Finnegan.

17185 Valley View Road, Eden Prairie, MN, 55346

THE EYRIE Vol. 54. No. 4 // March 2015

Eden Prairie High School

Olive’s Fresh Pizza Bar

New pizza parlor in Excelsior impresses our staff.

Embracing faillure to achieve glory.

20

14

Hats off To You...Not!

A rebuttle to the hoods and hats policy at EPHS.

26

Polar Plunge

Carter Bykowski

34

14

Students chill for charity.

EPHS Alumnus makes it big in the NFL.

MN DFL Chair

Ken Martin remembers his years at EPHS.

Cover design

by Trevor Stansberry Instagram: @theeyrie Twitter: @The_Eyrie Web: www.theeyrie.org

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

Jodie Flolid

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March 2015 -- theeyrie.org

The Eyrie VOL. 54, NO.4 // MARCH 2015

Josh talks about his Success Story pg. 20

The NEw Cinderella Movie pg. 7

Carter BYkowski pg. 14

POLICE EXPLOrERS pg. 10

Peep pops pg. 37

Does my Shoulder turn you on?

Pg. 26

Lamson’s family owned ice cream parlor pg. 30

Table of Contents

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A & E

Film Festivals The Young Filmmakers’ Club looks to the future.

Martin Blanco captures Joel Myers juggling for a music video the two are creating together.

O

PHOTO BY TREVOR STANSBERRY

BY HANNAH BELONGIE AND TREVOR STANSBERRY

ne of the great things that Eden Prairie High School has to offer is the wide range of varied programs and clubs that students and teachers are involved in each year. These organizations create an open environment where students can come together and share their love for something they all have common. The Young Filmmakers’ Club is one example of a club that integrates many different students who all share a similar interest.

The Young Filmmakers’ Club President Joel Myers and Vice President Martin Blanco have sought to change the club in many different ways this year. In the past, the club has either focused mostly on film appreciation or on film creation, but never on a combination of the two. By showing students films that inspire them, the two believe they have changed the dynamic of the club.

As Meyers said, “Through that, there have been more people that have at least thought about making a film.”

Besides changing the basic structure of the club, the two have also thought of ways to improve The Golden Waffle Iron Film Festival. GWIFF is a film festival used to appreciate the hard

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work and dedication of all young filmmakers. Countless hours of thought and work that have been put into the creation of these movies are showcased here. This festival usually takes place towards the end of the year, and will be held this year on May 22.

Blanco and Myers also introduced the Encore Film Festival to the 2015 club schedule. This new festival featured the best films of the past seven years of GWIFF. Tickets were sold for $2, and all of the proceeds went towards making this year’s upcoming GWIFF bigger and better. The club leadership is attempting to make GWIFF more personal and exciting for the directors and for the audience: Students can expect a red carpet to take pictures on and a pre-show waffle-bar.

The two also focused on making Encore, GWIFF and the Young Filmmakers’ Club better known by focusing on advertising and the branding of the club and festivals with the help of Trevor Stansberry, a graphic designer at our school. “We are trying to build an image for YFC that wasn’t really there before, but now we are creating logos and posters and something overall different,” said Blanco With both the new look and the

March 2015 -- theeyrie.org

MEET THE YOUNG FILMMAKERS’ CLUB LEADERSHIP Joel Myers

“What’s cool about film is that you can take a simple idea, yet that idea can open up so many more windows of creativity. There’s never an end to it.”

Films Myers has created: Ginger The Fro Reflections Purgo Narcissus Life is Not a Game Basketball Massacre

Martin Blanco

Perry Kennedy

“The best thing about film is that it’s a way to think differently. It’s a way to look back on your life, something you do, or society and sending a message that isn’t as direct. “ Films Blanco has created: Slender The Light MoonChild Unicorns R Real Panacea Absolution Altair’s Domain

“My favorite thing about film is that it is an art form and a great creative outlook to express your talents, passions and feelings. I also like the community aspect of people coming together and working hard to create a film that they are proud of.”

Films Kennedy has created: Inches Away Derek’s First Kiss Kicking the Habit Killer With a Punctured Heart PHOTOS BY TREVOR STANSBERRY

National Academy of Television Arts & Sciences Nominations Blanco and Myers were also recently nominated for a series of awards in the 2015 NATAS Upper Midwest Regional Student Production Awards. Below is a list of awards that the two won.

News: General News Assignment - Light News: Music Video: EPHS Vending Machines - Joel Myers Koo Koo Kanga Roo - “Unicorns R Real” - Martin Blanco & Joel Myers Arts and Entertainment/Cultural Affairs: EPHS Marching Band Story 2014 - Joel Myers Fiction: Reflections - Joel Myers

new expectations, the students of Eden Prairie High School can be sure that this will be one of the best festivals yet.

It all started way back in 2007, when an EPHS student came up with the idea to start a film club that would feature studentmade films at the end of the year. Perry Kennedy, one of the current EVN teachers, was asked to be the adviser for the club.

When he was asked for permission to start up the film club, he responded with, “ I am so behind that, lets do it.” With a passion for filmmaking, Kennedy says he was excited to help start a club to highlight this unique art.

Seven years later, YFC meets every Tuesday during zero hour, and the members of the club are shown all of the steps in the filmmaking process. Students are also encouraged to create a film of their own, and often find inspiration in the new short-films Blanco and Myers show during club meetings. The two both have a strong love and appreciation for film. Kennedy said, “Joel and Martin have really brought people’s interests in this year by showing short films that have inspired the students in a different type of way.”

A & E

Public Service (PSAs): Dress Warm - Martin Blanco & Joel Myers

Director: Joel Myers Director Composite - Joel Myers Commercial: Martin Blanco Director Composite Young Filmmakers’ Club Commercial - Martin Martin Blanco Blanco & Joel Myers

The New Look With the help of Trevor Stansberry, Blanco and Myers built a new image for the GWIFF and the Young Filmmakers’ Club.

GWIFF

THE YFC

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OOMPA VS. LOOMPA

BY AMIE STAGER I’m not as enamored by a magical candy factory as I was when I was 8. You could still say I’m fascinated—who wouldn’t want to dip into a chocolate river or drink bubble juice that makes you fly? The original version is titled “Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory,” not “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory” as the book by Roald Dahl and the 2005 remake directed by Tim Burton are titled. I’ll be calling the original “Wonka” and the remake “Charlie”.

The spectacle of “Wonka” captures my attention more than Burton’s eeriness in “Charlie” because the creepiness was expected. The Oompa-Loompas are nightmarish; they’ll haunt my dreams forever. But I enjoy the classic songs from “Wonka,” the Oompa-Loompa song and “Pure Imagination”.

They’re fantastical and dreamlike, which blends with the candy theme, unlike the funky tunes in “Charlie”. Also, the chocolate room in “Wonka” looks like a park that you could visit on a sunny day. The factory in “Charlie” looks like something out of a Dr. Seuss book.

Why I favor “Wonka” over “Charlie” is the role of Wonka himself. Gene Wilder portrays him as a mad genius with frizzy Einstein-like hair and multilingual abilities. He seems to have more composure than Johnny Depp’s version, which is portrayed as an anti-social adult with a severely troubled childhood and major daddy problems. In “Wonka,” he behaves like a maniac one moment and switches towards a loving, warm benefactor the next. Depp’s Wonka rejects Charlie and his family at first, further illustrating his erratic FLICKR PHOTOS tendencies and shifting the theme from the purity of children to the importance of family.

I loved how whimsical and wide-eyed Wilder portrays Wonka, but I appreciate that his background is revealed in “Charlie”. It answers why he is isolated and awkward. In Wonka, there’s no answer. But maybe, that’s how it’s supposed to be—a mystery.

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RESTAURANT REVIEW:

EVERYBODY LOVES PIZZA STORY AND PHOTOS BY ANDREW DONOHUE Just a short drive away in Excelsior a new pizza place has sprouted up on Water Street. Olive’s Fresh Pizza Bar has only been open since January, but has already amassed a sterling reputation that I was eager to test.

From the outside, brightly lit up with sparkling lights, it seemed very welcoming. This was confirmed when I strolled inside and was immediately greeted by a friendly waiter. I was told to seat myself and picked out a high top table nestled against the wall.

After perusing the menu, I decided on ordering the Alaskan Pizza which promised fresh salmon, cream cheese and onions on top of their famous crispy crust. The owner of the establishment, Perry Smith, complimented me on my selection. It is one of his favorite pizzas: “That particular pizza is what convinced me to invest in this company.”

Olive’s utilizes a wood fired oven to bake the pizzas, and you can watch them being prepared in front of you so that freshness is guaranteed. They use only the highest quality toppings and showcase a wide range of ingredients.

My pizza arrived after a short wait, and I dug right in. The salmon was plentiful and mixed well with the onions. The first bite was an explosion of flavor. Olive’s has very thin and crispy crust, which lets them pile more ingredients on top. The crust was one of the highlights of the whole pizza.

It had just the right amount of crispiness and provided a satisfying crunch. The pizza was $22, which is a bit on the pricy side, but turned out to be well worth the investment.

The restaurant also had a cool vibe.

The lights were somewhat dimmed, and all the tables were in one big room allowing for a shared sense of camaraderie. We were all paying tribute to and witnessing one of the best new pizza places in the Twin Cities area.

If you are looking for a new experience, or just love a good pizza, Olive’s is a definite place to check out.

287 Water Street Excelsior, MN 55331

March 2015 -- theeyrie.org

MOVIE REVIEW:

DISNEY CLASSIC GETS UPGRADED

BY ELIZABETH KENYON Staying strong and kind through adversity has always been the main theme of “Cinderella.” It was instantly clear to me that the recent live-action upgrade stayed true to that original theme from the 1950s animated version, and the result was beautiful.

Unlike the original version, we get to see more backstory.

The movie is introduced with a young, blonde Ella, blissfully happy with both of her parents alive and well. With the little screen time she has, Ella’s mother teaches Ella to always “have courage and be kind,” which soon becomes a mantra Ella tells herself when times get hard.

We also get to see just how close she is with her father, even after the Wicked Stepmother and Stepsisters come along. It all gives the audience a better understanding of why Ella is the way that she is; why she is so determined to stay kind to her stepfamily despite how cruel they treat her. Most importantly, the film shows how “Ella” turns into “Cinderella,” staying true to the original tale.

The moment when Ella meets the Prince is perfect. Their eye contact never falters, even as their horses circle dizzily around each other. Of course, who wouldn’t want to stare into the bright blue eyes of Prince Charming? (Seriously though—they stare straight into your soul). You see right away how earnest the Prince is, and he adorably quotes Cinderella in a later scene. Also unlike the older version, the Prince has a name. And that name is Kit. There’s something so distinctly right about its simplicity.

Another wonderful thing about this film is that we get to see Kit without his (soon-to-be) princess, and his relationship with his father, the King, (who, by the way, has fantastic character development of his own in the short time on screen). In fact, one of the most touching scenes in the entire movie involves only those two.

The transformation scene, in which Cinderella is magically

BOOK REVIEW:

FLICKR PHOTO

“HAVE COURAGE AND BE KIND.”

graced with her iconic blue gown, is cheesy, although mostly a good cheesy. One particular result, though—the one in which a lizard becomes the footman for the pumpkin carriage—is extremely disconcerting. Cinderella may not find the talking lizard/man creepy, but I certainly did.

All in all, I disagree with anyone who dares to call Cinderella “unoriginal.” We were told from the very beginning that this would be a live-action remake staying true to its roots, not another Cinderella story (see what I did there?). And that’s exactly what we’ve gotten, with just the right amount of, dare I say, originality.

ENTERTAINING, BUT OVERRATED

BY SHERIDAN SWEE

PHOTO BY AMIE STAGER

A & E

to her. The result is chilling and ultimately unexpected, leading many critics and readers to “The Girl on the Train” by Paula Hawkins has compare this story to Gillian Flynn’s “Gone Girl.” been flying off shelves everywhere since it was first However, I disagree. released in mid-January, but the novel itself does While both novels are told by an unreliable not live up to all the hype that surrounds it. While narrator, “The Girl on the Train” lacks character the overall story is entertaining, thrilling and depth that pulls the reader in. Instead of feeling possibly perfect for spring break, the ending won’t shocked and wanting to contemplate the end of leave you guessing. the novel, as I did with “Gone Girl,” this novel’s Set in a modern-day London suburb, the lack of character development didn’t move me the story is about a woman named Rachel who suffers way I thought it would. Instead, I was left feeling from alcoholism and may have had a role in the disappointed and asking myself “what was the mysterious disappearance of a woman named point?”

Megan. The problem is, due to her excessive Overall, I would recommend this book to drinking, she can’t remember. anyone looking for something that is merely As Rachel struggles to search her memory, she entertaining—possibly as an escape from daily becomes more and more obsessed with Megan work. If you’re searching for something deeper, and determined to discover what really happened however, keep looking.

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z z !

Ja and B T

Musicians perform in the birthplace of jazz

BY MAX CHAO

wice a week, a number of EPHS students rehearse, rehearse and rehearse again to perfect the complex genre of jazz. This group is aptly named the jazz band. Throughout the year, the band learns and performs a variety of compositions from the timeless classics from the 20th century to contemporary compositions which carry on the tradition.

Every few years, the jazz band does a music tour in a different city with the goal of better understanding the music and music culture of an area. During the tour, the band spends its time performing various shows and taking part in unique cultural experiences that the city has to offer.

This February, the jazz band made a musical pilgrimage to the crucible in which jazz was born and refined: New Orleans.

“It’s a place that I’ve always known that it would be an incredibly rich cultural town as far as music goes,” said Mike Whipkey, the band supervisor of the trip. “It is literally performed everywhere down there, in the streets, in clubs, everywhere. You hear it all the time,” continued Whipkey.

The band performed three shows in four days in

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different venues, ranging from a balcony overlooking the famous Bourbon Street to the New Orleans Jazz National Historical Park. “It was really cool just to be able to take part in a tradition in the place that it originated,” said jazz band bassist junior Tyler Wagner. “I’ll appreciate the experience for many years to come.”

Aside from performing, the band also took the time to tour the city and visit different landmarks while also learning about the significance of New Orleans in jazz.

“It was really all about education as well as sharing the work that we’ve done in a performance situation,” said Whipkey. The band attended many events during their time in New Orleans, including a jazz clinic with an expert at Loyola University and a visit to the world famous Preservation Hall, where some of the world’s greatest jazz musicians gather to perform. “It was really magical to be in a place that is so hallowed in jazz circles,” said Whipkey.

Exploring the world and different locations’ is essential to the growth of aspiring musicians. According to Wagner, jazz is a genre which lends itself to this mixing of culture. “It makes you a more well-rounded musician in general because all American music stems off of jazz,” said Wagner. “If you’re just in wind ensemble or orchestra and just playing classical music, you’re just getting a small picture of music as a whole.”

SUBMITTED PHOTO

Junior Tyler Wagner is one of the few bassists on the jazz band.

PHOTO BY CLAIRE HASSLER

Best PlaceS To Get A Burger

BY SARA MICHAEL No matter what the occasion is, a big and juicy burger never fails to hit the spot. There are lots of great burger places here in the Twin Cities ranging from drive thru to a high scale restaurant. When you are craving a hamburger, take a look at this list to see some top rated burger joints located throughout the metro:

Lions Tap

Located in Eden Prairie, Lions Tap is a great place to bring your family for a reasonably priced burger within reasonable distance.

With many different types of burgers on the menu, it gives you much variety to choose from.

Casper & Runyon’s Nook

in at My Burger. If you are into grease filled burgers, then this is definitely the right burger joint for you. Located in Calhoun Square.

Matt’s Bar & Grill

Home of the infamous Juicy Lucy, Matt’s Bar & Grill, now a Minneapolis landmark, began in 1954 as a neighborhood burger eatery. Matt’s has received numerous awards and has appeared in publications from Hamburgers Across America to the New York Times.

Burger Jones

Popular burger place located in Calhoun Square, this burger joint definitely wins the award for most creative burger. Stop by Burger Jones while venturing around the lakes in the summer time.

Never been?

Check them out at...

Lions Tap

16180 Flying Cloud Dr, Eden Prairie, MN 55347

Casper & Runyon’s Nook

492 Hamline Ave S, St Paul, MN 55116

My Burger

3100 Excelsior Blvd, Minneapolis, MN 55416

Matt’s Bar & Grill-

3500 Cedar Ave, Minneapolis, MN 55407

Burger Jones- Calhoun Village Shopping Center, 3200 W Lake St, Minneapolis, MN 55416

FLICKR PHOTOS

While exploring the city, venture into Casper & Runyon’s Nook, they are known for their cheese stuffed burgers and infamous Wisconsin cheese curds. Located in St. Paul.

My Burger

If you are on the go and need to quickly grab a bite to eat, stop

DONATE and VOLUNTEER Tuesday-Thursday: 10-7 Friday & Saturday: 10-5 Sunday: 12-4 DONATE and VOLUNTEER 15195 Martin Drive, Eden Prairie

Tuesday-Thursday:952.934.2323 10-7 Friday & Saturday: 10-5 Sunday: 12-4 15195 Martin Drive, Eden www.PropShopEP.org Prairie 952.934.2323 www.PropShopEP.org

DONATE and VOLUNTEER

A & E

Tuesday-Thursday: 10-7 Friday & Saturday: 10-5 Sunday: 12-4

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News

Police Explorers gather before th

Local Club trains students in law enforcement

BY SAM SCHNIRRING Four police officers enter a room where a domestic disturbance has occurred. They are quick to separate the two men involved in an argument, handcuffing one before checking their IDs and patiently questioning each. When one man draws a gun, they realize their mistake in not searching him.

Luckily for the officers, the gun is not real. The armed man is one of their advisors and has stopped the simulation to walk them through what they could have done better. The officers, a group of teenagers from Eden Prairie, are members of the Police Explorers program and are participating in a typical weeknight practice.

Made up of 14 to 21-year-olds from Eden Prairie and Edina, Police Explorers is a career exploration program that allows students to train and follow in the footsteps of a police officer.

“We learn everything that a police officer does, how they respond to different emergencies,” said Katie Kline, a senior who has been in the program for four years.

The Edina and Eden Prairie part of the program, Post #925, meets every Tuesday. At meetings, they either go through a presentation or practice by doing scenarios.

Scenarios are a way for Explorers to get practical, hands-on

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practice doing what a police officer would do in situations that range from domestic calls to hostage situations.

When going through a scenario, the Explorers are told what kind of situation they will be entering and given time to prepare.

They talk to dispatch, asking questions about prior arrests, possible weapons, animals in the household, or alcohol use.

“When we actually enter the scenario-- say it’s like a burglary.

Then you would go through, search the house for any suspects that are hiding … they’re going to be hiding in little places so we’re going have to find them.” Kline said. They question any suspects, handcuff and search them if necessary, and determine if a crime was committed.

“For many of the scenarios, it’s a lot of evidence documentation,” Kline said. The Explorers will take photos, tape statements, and measurements.

At competitions, they are given points based on their performance in scenarios and practice police examinations. The scenarios at state and national competitions “can be anything that we’ve trained for,” said Jack Zimmer, a senior who has been involved in the program for two years.

“At Nationals, we had a search-and-arrest warrant … I’m 6’5, and there was a guy who was my height, but he weighed probably 230, and they try to be realistic as possible, so I get one cuff on him, and he starts struggling with me,” Zimmer said. “It took like three people to finally get him on the ground. We were just like, ‘Oh, we’ve never practiced this before.’”

Kline and Zimmer both have future plans in law enforcement, but that isn’t the case with everyone involved in the program. “It just gives you so many great skills,” Kline said.

Explorers say that being involved in the program has taught them speaking skills and given them greater confidence and leadership ability. It can also teach discipline, as Explorers are expected to do push-ups for infractions such as being late or having a uniform that is not up to par. In addition to the skills acquired, Police Explorers has succeeded in building a tight-knit group of people who have a passion for what they do.

March 2015 -- theeyrie.org

Senior (right

You Should probably know: Prescription Drugs

BY ELIZABETH KENYON

hey run through their scenarios

PHOTOS BY SHERIDAN SWEE

Students are abusing prescription drugs to… study?

That’s right, study. Oh, how the times have changed.

Gone are the coffee and Red Bull-fueled study sessions, it would seem. College and high school students are now turning to prescription stimulants like Adderall and Ritalin to get down to business.

“Seems legitimate,” you must be thinking.

The thing is, for people who don’t actually have ADD or ADHD, the effects can be less than great. Turns out, study drugs can be just as addictive as street drugs. Not only that, but there are other risks to consider.

But first, a quick rundown on how Adderall and Ritalin work: Both are designed to increase concentration focus by increasing dopamine levels in the brain, which has a calming effect on those that actually have an attention-deficit disorder. It makes sense, since it is believed that those with ADHD don’t have enough dopamine.

For the people who do have enough dopamine (people who don’t have an attention-deficit disorder), the drugs are more likely to cause restlessness, among other things.

Just wait.

What happens after a sugar high wears off? In comes the crash. Imagine that, only medicated. But instead of

vaccination Controversy may cause reform

BY SARA MICHAEL

rs Avery Griham (left) and Sam Ward t) await their next assignment

News

Recent outbreaks of the measles in Los Angeles, California and at the University of Minnesota have caused controversy about the importance of vaccinations. Many people would say that vaccinations are an effective way to keep people healthy.

Others may argue that vaccinations are irrelevant and are just another way to expose unnatural toxins to the body.

Currently, in order to attend a Minnesota public school, students must have received the mandatory vaccines unless parents exempt their children from vaccinations by signing a philosophical waiver. Minnesota Legislature, Mike Freiberg, DFL-Golden Valley, has discussed introducing a bill that would require people who do not want to vaccinate their children to consult a doctor first. A lot of controversy has sparked due to Freiberg’s proposal.

School nurse Carolyn Henning said that EPHS has more than a 99 percent compliance rate; meaning that fewer than 50 students out of the approximately 3,000 who attend the high school have signed waivers, “We respect the decisions of parents

just getting tired, a study drug crash can involve exhaustion and even depression from using up all of the body’s dopamine.

Sounds… not fun.

Not quite done with side effects yet. Other short-term risks could include increased blood pressure, increased heart rate and nervousness. Still not done. In addition to all of that, the National Institute on Drug Abuse says Adderall can cause hallucinations, impulsive behavior, paranoia and irritability.

None of that will make taking finals any easier.

Also, some of these risks are reportedly present after using the drugs only once. So there’s that.

Not to mention the fact that using any kind of drug without a prescription is illegal, and study drugs are no exception. So Sally giving Timmy one of her prescribed Adderall pills before his big test may not seem like a big deal at the time, especially when he gets an A on that test, but Sally just became a felon, even if she was “just trying to help.” Tell it to the judge, Sally. Selling drugs is also still very much against the law, even if it was done with good intentions.

The issue itself goes beyond just drug abuse.

Students that choose not to pop an Addy before their ACT, for instance, cry foul when those that do get a better score. The words “cheating” and “unfair” are only now starting to come out of the woodwork. As of yet, not much is being done about it, as there currently isn’t a way to test for this drug before testing.

So, at least for now, Queen Addy’s reign continues to grow.

Emphasis on the “for now.”

who sign waivers if the vaccinations violate a conscientious objection against their beliefs,” Henning said.

Henning said that vaccinations are crucial to protecting students from communicable diseases. “It’s just an effective way to keep everyone safe. We strongly recommend that everyone stays up-to-date with the required vaccinations,” she said.

Some parents, according to Henning, have solid reasons for not vaccinating their children. “If it’s well thought out, we understand,” Henning said. “Signing off without reasoning is hard to understand.”

Henning also commented on the importance of getting vaccinated before starting kindergarten and seventh grade: “All vaccinations are required to be able to attend EPHS, unless you have a signed waiver. It is very important to receive your booster shot before you begin seventh grade. All vaccinations are required. If not, you have to sign a waiver; no exceptions.”

A student’s mother commented that the choices we make for ourselves and our children, regarding vaccinations are important to our entire state of health. “I typically review and research the information on any medical procedure, including vaccinations, from a variety of sources, so I can make educated choices” she said.

“It’s just an effective way to keep everyone safe. We strongly recommend that everyone stays up-to-date with the required vaccinations.”

- Carolyn Henning

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volunteering brings students together across the globe

BY ABBY WARRICK

V

olunteering around the world has had a significant effect in uniting people as one. Global interaction and helping people can help make the world a better place. Students are involved in many organizations, mission trips, and volunteer opportunities at EPHS. Junior Mackenzie Goodburn is a part of the National Charity League, which is a nationally run organization that fosters mother and daughter relationships, leadership development, and cultural experiences. This organization strives to improve communities and give back on a national level.

Goodburn is also planning to volunteer globally by traveling to the Dominican Republic this summer.

She will be traveling with a nonprofit organization called Impact Lives.

Goodburn and other members of Impact Lives will be providing the Dominican people with resources, playing with kids, rebuilding homes, and arranging other supplies needed for the people in the Dominican.

“Volunteering is important because so many people don’t have the resources and opportunities that we do. I think it’s good to give our time and effort to benefit others,” said Goodburn.

Mission trips are a very common way people volunteer across the Globe.

Sophmore Sienna Gambino spent time with young kids during her time volunteering in Haiti PHOTOS SUBMITTED

Sophomore Sienna Gambino describes her experience traveling to Haiti last September. “Most haitians were happier with less than half of what we have” said Gambino.

Gambino went with a group through the Organization Healing Haiti and Feed My Starving Children. In Haiti, the group distributes packs of food and clean drinking water.

While in the country, the group visited Cite Soleil, one of the poorest cities in the Western Hemisphere. Gambino explains the moment when they drove into the city and immediately young Haitian boys and girls ran after their truck, anxious for the clean water. “When I stepped off, five kids immediately grabbed onto me, all of them wanted to be held at the same time and it hit me how attention deprived these kids were” said Gambino.

Gambino described the happiness and excitement among the Haitian children as the water was being distributed.

Many students at EPHS take time and volunteer to help others. Some people choose to volunteer locally, while others give their time for a global cause. People realize that in bringing joy to other people you can also bring joy to yourself.

model UNITED NATIONS ENGAGES STUDENTS

BY SHERIDAN SWEE

really well?’ or ‘what if I get Djibouti and no one knows what that is?’” said senior JingJing Zhu, who will be vice-president of the Security Council. “Really, it’s what Model United Nations, a program sponsored through the YMCA, is a threeyou make of it and you can make any country significant. Last year, one of the really day conference held in Minneapolis from March 26 to March 28. This event brings influential countries was Macedonia, and no one really knows about that.” students together from across the state to discuss an arrange of global political, In preparation for this event, students are required to research their country’s social, and economic issue history, government structure, and economy, as well as other social aspects. “It’s from the perspective of a specific country. just really fun to participate in something like this and have a genuine debate where “It’s kind of like DECA for politics, but without the competition aspect of it,” said everyone is so passionate about these issues and they’re really well-informed,” senior Riley Tillit, who is representing North Korea this year. “The whole purpose of said senior Marc Ho, who is the vice-president of Economic and Social Council. this is to listen to a very different point of view and try to imagine what that’s like.

“Everyone’s there to have a high-level, intelligent debate.”

Students can either work individually or in teams to represent a country.

Model United Nations offers students other benefits as well. “The best thing Countries with more global prominence, such as the United States, Russia, China, about MUN, for me, is that it’s a really good platform just to work on my public the United Kingdom, and France require seven people. “Last year I represented the speaking skills,” said Zhu. United States on the Security Council,” said Tillit. “I really enjoyed it because when In addition, Model United Nations allows students to discuss issues that they I would say something, ten out of the other 15 countries would automatically agree may have had no prior knowledge of. “It’s the chance to leave your comfort zone,” with me and support my position.” added Tillit. “You don’t get many opportunities in school to talk in front of larger Smaller countries, however, can pull just as much weight as the larger ones. “A groups of people and share your view on issues that are happening in the world lot of people might think, ‘I want to be Israel, but what if that’s a lot of pressure to do today.”

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March 2015 -- theeyrie.org

Minnesota democratic leader shares his memories at ephs

BY ANDREW DONOHUE Many illustrious people have graduated from EPHS over the years. Among the most interesting of these is Ken Martin. He graduated from Eden Prairie in 1991 and has gone on to become the chair of the Minnesota DFL (Democratic Party).

Martin’s job largely consists of building the framework for the party within Minnesota. He works with all the DFL elected officials to figure out the party platform and help ensure DFL success. Martin has an instrumental role with running electoral campaigns for candidates: “I help recruit candidates, raise money and do a lot of meeting with the media to spread the party message,” he said.

He helped elect Governor Mark Dayton in 2010, which he considers one of his proudest political moments. Martin believes that politics is personal and tries to reach out to as many people as possible. Throughout his political career, he has met famous figures such as President Barack Obama, former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton and former U.S. senator and presidential candidate Walter Mondale, but he treasures simple interactions and moments with ordinary citizens as well.

Martin also has fond memories of Eden Prairie High School and the community in general. “EPHS has changed a lot since I was there, I’m sure,” he laughed, “My graduating class was only 300 students, which would be tiny now.” He remembers one

Ken Martin discusses his time at EPHS with staffer Andrew Donohue in his office at the DFL headquarters PHOTO BY SHERIDAN SWEE

senior party

BY HANNAH BRANDSER The senior party is just around the corner and it needs donations. This is a very exciting event for seniors. “Please follow the senior party on Facebook and Twitter and check out the senior party website,” said Bingo for Boxers Committee member, Kim Brandser.

The senior party committee is looking for raffle donations, gift card donations, boxers, personal care service project items, and movie room candy. Register for the senior party before April 14 to be entered into a drawing to win a gift card. If registered before May 1, it will cost $75 and if registered after, it will cost $85.

Help the senior party committee make “A Night in the Spotlight” a perfect night for the seniors.

News

helpful college tips BY: LUCI BESSINGER

Martin poses with his sons and President Obama PHOTO BY SHERIDAN SWEE

teacher specifically, “Mr. Cwodzinski really mentored me and helped inspire me to pursue a career in politics,” he said.

Martin’s favorite moment from high school is when he, with the help of social studies teacher Steve Cwodzinski, convinced Senator Paul Wellstone to come speak at the high school. He considers Senator Wellstone to be another of his political heroes, “Paul Wellstone instilled a commitment to public service in me.

He preached that politics aren’t about big money or power games, but the improvement of people’s lives.”

EPHS helped shape Martin into the person he is today and he is grateful for all the people he connected with here, “Eden Prairie was a great community to grow up in and I formed bonds with lots of people. I still keep in touch with many of them today.”

Martin has some advice for seniors who are heading off to college and beyond. He emphasized the importance of keeping an open mind and not just focusing on one thing; “Don’t miss opportunities that are staring you in the face because you are fixated on one specific thing.”

He also encouraged students to explore and discover themselves. Education is about experiencing life and learning from your mistakes, not just stuff in a book. College is where you can learn to live. Martin urged students to “be involved in what you are passionate about and to keep being idealistic, don’t let the world’s cynicism affect you.”

free act test MURPHY HULLETT-NELSON This year the state of Minnesota is requiring all juniors to take the ACT in April; the test will be free. All juniors are required to take this ACT regardless of how many times students have taken it in the past because the test is mandatory. The main goal in giving out the ACT is to make sure students are ready for college and life experiences after high school.

The EPHS testing day is April 28. There will be no school for freshmen, sophomores or seniors that day.

The test will replace the junior MCA’s taken in years prior.

Most school in Minnesota will follow this new initiative of preparing students for college. Another test is available in May after the mandatory ACT.

Visiting colleges is always stressful, but with a few helpful tips one can be guaranteed assurance of the choice of where to study. What criteria is necessary for one’s college checklist? Below are a few of the most important aspects that one should love about their future school. · Campus layout · Dorm size and if it includes a bathroom in the rooms or not · Location of dorms in regards to the building you will be studying · Transportation system within the campus · Lunch area and cost of the dining · Greek life presence/ no presence · Strong program in what you desire to study · Recreational center · Size of the city surrounding the campus · The educational or sport clubs it provides · The distance the college is from your home Lenny Moskowitz, counselor at EPHS, added, “It is very important to have a checklist while visiting colleges because it keeps you organized and ensures that you aren’t just simply walking around a campus while talking with a friend.”

Principal Conn McCarten also said, “It’s up to you. Live the life you have. You influence your future. College is a match to be made, not a prize to be won.”

Overall, follow these tips to ensure one will enjoy their future education and the new life that they create.

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Sports

welcome home ephs grad 14

BY ALLY THORSEN At 6’7� and 312 pounds, Carter Bykowski-who just signed with the Minnesota Vikings-does not get missed in the hallway of his former high school. The looks from passing freshmen about half his size show that he is not something they see every day. When Bykowski came back to EPHS, it was clear that he was a student who has made a lasting impact on the school.

Extraordinary things happen at Eden Prairie High School.

Because of this, it may seem normal to have an EPHS grad playing the sport he loved in high school now on a professional level. Carter Bykowski, a 2008 graduate, was a three-sport athlete like many students. He played football, basketball and ran track. Football was his main sport, which he continued to play throughout college and now on a professional level. Only three EPHS grads have gone on to play in the NFL. He just got signed to the Minnesota Vikings in December, but a lot of hard work has been put into reaching this level.

March 2015 -- theeyrie.org

Carter Bykowski defending the quarterback.

Carter Bykowski visits EPHS shortly after signing with the Vikings.

Carter Bykowski playing for the Sanfrancisco 49ers.

PHOTO BY DUSTIN WOLF

Bykowski started playing when he was in third grade, following in the footsteps of his older brother, Matt, who was quarterback when the Eagles won the state tournament in 2002. Bykowski then went on to play at EPHS where he was part of the team that won two state championships in a row.

Bykowski was thrilled to win the state championship in 2006, his junior year, because it was the first state championship won by Eden Prairie after 2002. Bykowski was then determined to be a state champion his senior year. Even compared to the thrill of playing in the NFL, Bykowski said, “I don’t think I’ve ever been more excited for a game than my senior year state championship.”

After a successful career at EPHS, Bykowski then went on to play at Iowa State from 2008-2012. At Iowa State he switched positions from a tight-end to an offensive tackle to have a better chance of being a starter.

Being one of the three graduates to play in the NFL, Bykowski is obviously a talented football player. Current head football coach

Sports

SUBMITTED PHOTOS

and activities director Mike Grant coached Bykowski and said that “he had a great career here.” Grant also coached Bykowski’s older brother and said Carter was “always the little brother, not what you would say would be a potential NFL player.”

Like most kids, Bykowski has always wanted to play in the NFL. He grew up admiring the Vikings players but was always very realistic and “took everything one step at a time.” He wasn’t a first round pick for the NFL, but that didn’t stop him. Working a little bit harder than others got him a spot on the San Francisco 49ers practice squad and now drafted by the Vikings.

Bykowski said “looking back, I would have been really upset if I didn’t keep playing.” Now, playing for the Vikings is very surreal for Bykowski: “I’ll play for whoever wants me, but being here is pretty special and I love it.”

“I don’t think I’ve ever been more excited for a game than my senior year state championship.”

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GRAPHIC BY TREVOR STANSBERRY

Karate vs kung fu The meaning of martial arts in the modern world

BY JEAN-PIERRE TOSSA Martial arts are not just sports. They are self defense tools, fitness programs and pieces of culture. They have existed nearly as long as mankind.

Martial arts provide a vast array of benefits.

The first, and most evident, is the ability to defend oneself. Training in a martial art provides an ability to not only protect oneself, but also others around you. It also increases the likelihood of survival in a world filled with violent crime. Additionally, this knowledge of self defense is likely to increase confidence, decreasing the likeliness of being attacked.

The second is a way to keep up daily fitness. Most martial arts originated as a form of hand to hand combat, thus required a good level of physical fitness to excel in. While not many martial arts today are as strenuous as their predecessors, they still provide good workout. This physical health comes with a bonus of improving mental health as well.

Although many martial arts forms exist, due to individual cultures developing their own, there are very few that have widespread recognition.

These recognizable styles extend from universal martial arts, such as boxing and wrestling, to ones more typically seen in a movie, such as karate and kung fu.

Karate and kung fu are the two most famous eastern martial arts styles in the world. Founded hundreds of years ago in Asia, both were used as effective

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methods of hand-to-hand combat and self-defense.

Despite these similarities, the two martial arts have vast differences.

Kung fu itself is not a martial art. As a matter of fact, kung fu is just a colloquial term for Chinese martial arts. This term is comprised of hundreds of styles. From the short–range wing chun to the long-range springing legs style, kung fu styles span a wide range.

Most of these styles are grouped into two categories, external or internal.

External styles rely on raw power. They use fast, explosive movements and focus on physical strength. Due to the amount of brute force delivered, these styles are more prominent. Internal styles focus on awareness of the spirit, qi and mind, as well as using relaxed leverage to overcome opponents.

Karate is a martial art originating in the Ryukyu Islands of Japan. This martial art is comprised of several styles. Unlike kung fu, however, these styles are similar in nature. This is due to the fact that all styles of karate focus predominantly on striking.

Many martial arts were created for combat, but they have a vast array of applications. While both Karate and Kung Fu, the most famous martial arts styles, originate in Asia, they provide benefits world wide. Despite these differences, these martial arts are still viable in today’s world, for self defense and for fitness.

March 2015 -- theeyrie.org

badminton

BY SAM SCHNIRRING Badminton started practice on March 3rd with high hopes for the coming season. “Our coach is really excited for the season to start, and so are all the captains,” said Rachel Korman, a senior captain. The team begins their season with several weeks of 6 a.m. practices, a testament to their dedication. “Our goal is to just improve from last year and do well at State,” Korman said. “Having a good time is our ultimate goal.”

Senior Brittney Heisserer squats in a drop for the birdie.

First competitions, captains, and coaches Badminton:

First game: April 8th vs. Hmong Academy, home, 4:00 Captains: Rachel Korman, Katie Pudas, Amie Stager, Madison Duffy Coach: John Becker

Tennis:

First game: April 8th vs. Orono, home, 4:00 Captains: Anthony Rosa, Andy Fick, Nate Larson Coach: Dan Richards

Track & Field

First meet: April 10th vs. Hopkins, Edina, Minnetonka and Wayzata, U of MN, 3:00 Girls’ captains: Ann Harlos, Beth Harlos, Katie Velek, Micayla Batchlor Boys’ captains: Ben Ose, Davis Eldridge, Andrew Nemecek, Sean Hames Girls’ coach: Jummy Barlass Boys’ coach: Bruce Kivimaki

Senior Katie Pudas perfecting her serve.

Junior Julia Moseman eyeing the birdie.

PHOTOS BY CLAIRE HASSLER

boys tennis

Track & field

BY ALLY THORSEN

BY GRACE KASBOHM

The past two years there has still been snow on the court when the boys tennis team started their season. Hopefully, this year, with a milder winter, the boys will be able to try out and start their season outdoors.

Led by juniors Andy Fick and Anthony Rosa and senior Nate Larson, the team has their eyes set on making it to the state tournament. Fick said that their biggest section competition will be Minnetonka and Shakopee during the regular season. Then at state their biggest competition will be Wayzata.

This year the boys have a new coach, Dan Richards. Richards is currently a tennis professional at Lifetime Athletic Club and has a lot of experience coaching tennis. Along with the change of having a new coach, the team is losing four seniors and one sophomore. Fick said they “hope to have a strong team and have a good group of freshmen coming up.”

The track team has spent a tremendous amount of time towards improvement this off-season, beginning with their workouts in November. Senior Luis Montero said, “I strongly believe our team possesses the talent and work ethic necessary to become a dominant force in the upcoming season.” The Track and Field coaching staff, as well as team captains Ben Ose, Davis Eldridge, Sean Hames, and Andrew Nemecek have instilled a winning mentality in their team. The team is very excited for the season, and plan to make the most out of it, starting with their first practice on March 9th.

Sports

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Freshman Avery Wysong passing to her teammate during captains practice.

Junior Johanna Welter following through on a pass to her teammate.

PHOTOS BY CLAIRE HASSLER

SOFTBALL

BY ABBEY MERTZ The softball season is just around the corner.

With great competition emerging this season, the softball team is sure to have a prosperous season.

Senior captains Nataly Shields, Lexi Klemp, and Elsa Hauschildt will lead the team this year. I interviewed Nataly Shields about the upcoming season.

Almost every team has an opponent that they want to beat. Shields said, “Two of the teams who are our biggest competitors this year are Maple Grove and Hopkins. They both have pretty solid teams but I think with our team this year, it will be a challenge but they are definitely both beatable.”

Next, Shields commented about their annual trip to Florida for spring break: “We take mainly JV and varsity players down to Florida for our spring break trip. We practice every day and also have a lot of down time to bond as a team. This enables everyone to get to know each other better.”

Lastly, Shields explained why she thinks her team is unique this year. She stated, “We have a variety of people on our team. We had a lot of underclassmen last year and there will be more this year. Although we have a young team, we make it work. There are a lot of great girls, and age definitely doesn’t define talent on the team.”

Baseball

SYNCHRO

BY ABBEY MERTZ

BY SAMANTHA SCHNIRRING

With a great season last year and placing second in state, the baseball team is sure to have a successful year. Captains are currently undecided. Senior Ryan Christiansen commented on who he thinks the biggest competition will be for the 2015 season. He said, “Tonka is always good, it’s fun playing them because it’s really good competition but that’s one team I hate losing to.”

Next, Christiansen mentioned what the baseball team’s pre-game ritual is. Christiansen said, “Before every game I try to go around to each guy to motivate them to do their best no matter if were playing a weak team or strong team. Also we usually say a little prayer before each game.”

The baseball team takes an annual spring break trip to Sarasota, Florida. Senior Joe Fahning gave an insight about the trip: “We wake up early in the morning and go to practice until about noon. We eat lunch, then after that, we scrimmage for a few hours.

For the rest of the day we’ll go to the beach, go to the mall, or just spend time together and get to know each other to bond as a team.”

The EPHS synchronized swimming team is looking forward to a strong season filled with growth. “We have a big senior class and a big freshman class,” said senior captain Sarah Miner. “We lost a lot of good girls, so I think what we’re really going to focus on is improving and developing.” The team aims to be one of the top competitors in their section, but they also want to “have a good time and focus on good figures,” said Miner.

First competitions, captains and coaches Synchro:

First Meet: April 14th vs. Hopkins, away, 4:30 Captains: Sarah Miner, Emma Griffith, Carrie Jundt Coach: Jennifer Wood

Baseball:

First Game: April 9th vs. Shakopee, home, 4:30 Captains: Undecided Coach: John Buteyn

Softball:

First Game: April 7th vs. Lakeville North, home, 5:00 Captains: Nataly Shields, Lexi Klemp, and Elsa Hauschildt Coach: Dan Rubischko

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March 2015 -- theeyrie.org

Boys lax

BY HANNAH BRANDSER

The boys lacrosse team after their big state championship win last year.

SUBMITTED PHOTO

“Going into this season, after winning backto-back state championships, we will definitely have a target on our back,” said senior captain Sean Patterson. The boys lacrosse team has high hopes after winning back-to-back championships in the previous two years. That being said, the other teams are out to defeat Eden Prairie this season. “As far as our success goes, we will need to rely on team chemistry and everyone must understand their role,” said junior captain JD Spielmann. Every player on the team has a specific position that they need to fulfill in order to continue to have success. “We have a shot at doing something remarkable, bringing a third consecutive state championship back to EPHS,” said Patterson.

The boys lacrosse team has the desire to make history, and they believe they’re more than capable of doing so. “It should be a great season,” said senior captain Connor St. Mary. “Back to back to back is the ultimate goal,” stated the captains.

Girls lax

BY HANNAH BRANDSER “Our team definitely has the potential to achieve great things this year,” said junior captain Jane Claeys.

The girls lacrosse team is very excited to get practices started. They plan on having a very successful season.

Senior captain Jessica Lagerquist is going on her fourth year as a member of the team. “Everyone has their part and that is what makes our team so strong,” said Lagerquist. Junior captain Payton Borg is also a fourth year member of the lacrosse team. Borg stated, “We are all very willing to do whatever it takes to win the state title this year.” Best of luck to the girls lacrosse team this season!

First competitions, captains and coaches Sophomore Connor Olson running the ball down the field.

PHOTO BY DUSTIN WOLF

BOYS GOLF

girls golf

BY MURPHY HULLETT-NELSON

BY GRACE KASBOHM

This season the boy’s golf team is looking forward to rigorous competition and winning more matches. The boy’s golf team is lead by Coach Ty Armstrong. Team Captain Jack Koehler talks about what he expects for this upcoming season: he is looking forward to the out of town tournaments. His expectations for the season are to win the conference tournament and then win sections and advance to state. Koehler says the team has a lot of fun together especially on tournament days.

Sports

The girl’s golf team is extremely excited for their season to begin. Every Wednesday morning for the past month the girls have been hitting balls in the dome. Senior, Abby Hystad says, “with many of the girls experiencing high school golf for the first time, we are going to have to rely heavily on our returning players.” The first match is April 13th at Minnesota Valley, but their calendar is constantly changing. They are hoping to get outside soon and really bond on the course!

Boys Lax:

First Game: April 14th vs. Benilde St. Margarets, home, 7:00 Captains: Sean Patterson, Connor St. Mary, and JD Spielmann Coach: Ryan Ward

Boys Golf:

First Competition: Captains: Coach: Ty Armstrong

Girls Golf:

First Competition: April 13th vs. Bloomington Jefferson, Minnesota Valley Country Club, 12:00 Captains: Undecided Coach: Marty Teigen

Girls Lax:

First Game: April 14th vs. Lakeville North, home, 5:30 Captains: Jessica Lagerquist, Payton Borg, and Jane Claeys Coach: Beth Patterson and Judy Baxter

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Cover Story

Nafisa Ibrahim opening college acceptance letters.

Sam Borja actually holding the camera.

PHOTO BY AMIE STAGER

PHOTO BY ANTHONY ROSA

BY AMIE STAGER AND ANTHONY ROSA

here seems to be a monolithic black and white version of success. Money, fame, genius, money, talent, reputation, approval, money… did I mention money? What it comes down to is this question: who is winning at life?

Success can be defined as “the favorable or prosperous termination of attempts or endeavors.” In simpler terms, success is the fulfillment of a goal. These goals can be what society values as a whole, such as money, fame or perfection. It can also be the accomplishment of personal and individual goals, such as finding a job or going to bed earlier. But this definition lacks description of what it takes to be successful--what one must overcome in order to reach his or her goals--the sacrifice, hard work and defeat that precedes the glory. So, the question changes from who is winning to who is allocating their resources efficiently to fulfill their goals, especially after a failure?

No one knows why junior Ben Giles chose to play the saxophone in the fourth grade, not even him. He came home one day and decided that it would be the saxophone. However, he always knew that he wanted to play an instrument. When he reached high school, he discovered how positively people reacted to the music, and playing became more satisfying. No more “practice makes perfect.” Progress makes satisfaction.

For Giles, there wasn’t a point at which it clicked for him that he had a talent for the saxophone. He knows that everyone starts at the same level with an instrument, and he realizes that he could practice more and he could be better. Assuming too much of himself freshman year, Giles auditioned for Wind Ensemble, the highest band in the school. He didn’t make it. Devastated at first, he took a positive spin on his situation. “I thought, ‘I may be in this band, but I’m going to be the best I

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can be,’” said Giles. He admits to butchering a few things here and there and being consumed with the guilt and the “what ifs” of every mistake. In his opinion, you learn the most from these experiences because they fuel motivation.

He tried out for Jazz Band after becoming awestruck by one of their performances. At first, he was 2nd alto in Jazz 2. Now, he is 2nd alto in Jazz 1. While in New Orleans this past February, Giles performed a solo. He appreciates the Eden Prairie Band community. “It’s that peer support that really drives us all to get better,” he said. “It’s the goal of being the best we can be.”

Giles’ idea of success is knowing that he is doing the most he can to do the best he can. His goal for senior year specifically is to be the best he can be. “If there’s a phenomenal sophomore who gets alto 1 and they’re better than me, that’s okay,” he said. “I know I’m going to keep practicing and keep getting better. I want to be able

March 2015 -- theeyrie.org

to say to myself that I did the best that I could.”

Junior Sam Borja is a film fanatic who enjoys money. Getting to film the high school football game to make some extra money on the side was a dream come true. He set up the endzone camera as if it was any other day. Extending the long, flimsy tripod legs to get a better view, he sat back and let the magic happen. The Eagles destroyed their opponents and Sam began to pack up after a good nights work. As he was disassembling the tripod, he forgot to completely close up one leg, and the unbalanced stand fell ten feet to its doom. The camera was broken into a few pieces, but Sam had a plan. Using his handy duct tape, he taped the camera up to the point where it could be used again. Sam escaped the incident unscathed and continues to practice film today.

One wintry day in January, senior Megan Maguire showed up at the restaurant Tavern 4 & 5 with a goal in mind. She walked out with that goal fulfilled. She was hired to be a hostess.

Immediately after filling out an application, Maguire was interviewed by the manager. He asked how she managed stressful situations and why she would

Ben Giles jamming out on his saxophone.

Gordon dropped out. “I was at a private school and, for me, that was a disaster,” he said. Mr. Gordon was feeling lost and defeated when he found a medium-sized school that better fit his needs. Still feeling empty, Gordon biked across Europe for a year with his colleague.

He saw everything from the mountains of Greece to the grand cities in England.

“I knew I needed transformative experiences in my life,” he said. And that is exactly what Gordon had. Returning to college a fulfilled man, Gordon completed college and came one step closer to his career in education. Today, he uses innovative teaching techniques, using music and Bloom’s Taxonomy to encourage deeper intellectual thinking and creativity.

It’s tough for anyone to sit on the sidelines and watch your teammates play, without you, the sport you proudly call your passion. Senior Josh Lanasa knows this firsthand.

He began this year’s basketball season with his first documented concussion, one he received from the state championship football game. He missed the first three regular season games. “For other injuries, let’s say a leg injury, you can work on your

Megan Maguire closing in on the job.

PHOTO BY AMIE STAGER

PHOTO BY AMIE STAGER

be good for this position. She gave honest answers. She found out right after the interview that she got the job.

Maguire’s story is not one of just luck or people skills. It’s the perfect example of networking. Maguire had been in contact with the manager previously due to past visits to the restaurant and a connection she had with someone for whom she nannied. “Usually they don’t give you an answer right away,” she said. “But I had a little bit of an advantage.”

She didn’t apply just because she had a connection--she had friends who worked there, and she enjoyed the atmosphere. “I thought it would be a fun, first real job,” she said. “Everybody needs the experience of working in retail or at a restaurant where you’re forced to learn communication skills.” She had been nervous, but college interviews and advice from her dad boosted her confidence.

Maguire has worked as an assistant dance teacher at Prairie School of Dance, so she’s not used to sitting around on the job. “I always thought being a hostess would be interesting and active,” she said. “It felt like something up my alley.”

She wasn’t able to start until mid-March because she has been so busy this year with dance team and other priorities. A positive about her new job is that the hours are very flexible. They understand that it’s her senior year and she needs to be able to keep up with school and because of this, she won’t work on weeknights.

Maguire said that her new job isn’t as much about the requirements as it is about personality and people skills. Clearly, she has shown her networking ability and her initiative to reach her goal, exemplifying success in every possible way.

Honors World History teacher Rob Gordon was entering his first year of college at a private university. The fit wasn’t meant to be, and after strenuous effort, Mr.

Cover Story

upper body, or if you break your arm, you can still do sprints,” Lanasa said. “But a head injury prevents any athletic activity.” As hard as it is to recover physically, it’s harder to recover mentally. He admitted that he returned too early, but once he did, playing became twice as good.

Winning does give him a great amount of satisfaction, but success for him is more than just winning. Lanasa emphasized the importance of his teammates and how much they mean to him. He is used to having a big role on the team and helping others. “I’ve learned that sometimes it’s better to give up your personal glory for the glory of everyone on the team,” said Lanasa. “Having fun and having a team that loves each other—anyone would want that.”

Lanasa remembered the beginning of high school when he felt behind the bigger, more physical players and how he worked hard to improve himself over the years.

He felt as if he’s improved greatly this year. He’s not 100% sure, but it’s most likely that he’ll be playing basketball at St. Thomas next year.

The goal this year was to take the team to the state championship, but the first and foremost goal as a team was to win the next game ahead of them. This goal seemed very feasible. However, in the section semifinal the team lost 59-58 against Hopkins, their biggest rival. Hopkins has defeated EP in sections for the last five years, and when the Eagles were winning with a minute and a half left, they prepared for victory, not failure.

The team was devastated. They did all they could, but it wasn’t enough.

Afterwards, there were a lot of tears. “I don’t think I’ve ever cried that much in my SUCCESS AND DEFEAT continued on pg. 22 >>

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Josh Lanasa dunks the basketball.

Casey Mittlestadt after scoring a goal at the state tournament.

PHOTO BY AMIE STAGER

PHOTO BY DUSTIN WOLF

Students focusing hard in hopes of a successful exam.

PHOTO BY AMIE STAGER

<< SUCCESS AND DEFEAT from pg. 21 life,” said Lanasa. At first, he felt angry, but after a few intense days of stress eating, self-reflection and conversation with family, he realized that some things are just not meant to happen, no matter how hard you try or how well you perform.

He hates losing more than anything and admits that he hasn’t completely moved on, but he draws upon the experience as motivation to improve for college basketball and not to take anything for granted. “In the grand scheme of things, it’s not that big of a deal,” he said. “I have a family and friends; I have a home; I have food; and I go to a great school. Looking back, it was the best year I could’ve had.”

Junior Piper Lincoln was a freshman working tirelessly in the gymnastics room, practicing the bar, beam, and vault. The amount of effort she had put into the season was unimaginable; she had state on her mind. After a stellar year, she finished fifth on her squad…when only the top four go to state. After a devastating defeat, she put more work into her sophomore year and never gave up. Her sophomore year she finally made a state run, achieving her dreams. Her junior year, Lincoln placed 19th on the bars and beam at state, 22nd on vault, and 28th in floor exercise. From her experience, Lincoln learned that anything is possible if you put your mind to it.

In the summer, senior Nafisa Ibrahim likes to sleep in. She reads frequently and completes her summer homework, but doesn’t overload herself with work. She saves that for the school year.

Since the eighth grade, Ibrahim has determined her path to success. “When we were signing up for classes, I had my whole schedule planned out to senior year,” she said. “I’ve always been super organized in terms of what I needed to get into colleges.” Her hard work and extensive planning has paid off. Ibrahim applied to three different colleges—University of Minnesota Twin Cities, University of Minnesota Duluth, and the College of St. Scholastica—and was accepted into all of them.

Northwestern University in Illinois has always been Ibrahim’s dream school because she loves the area and the facilities, but St. Scholastica comes in at a close second. The city of Duluth has always appealed to her, but what sealed the deal for St. Scholastica was the financial aid. Private schools receive endowments from

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Rob Gordon turned his life around for the better.

PHOTO BY ANTHONY ROSA

Piper Lincoln performing at the state tournament.

PHOTO SUBMITTED

alumni; therefore they have more to offer. Half of Ibrahim’s $40,000 tuition will be covered by a merit-based scholarship and the rest will hopefully be covered by their CSSyes scholarship based on financial need. Ibrahim will most likely pay for room and board by getting a job or work-study position or applying for more scholarships.

She will eventually apply to Northwestern for graduate school.

Ibrahim has decided to double major in biochemistry and math with a minor in French. A glimpse at her diverse transcript illustrates her motivation. “I knew I needed to take all honors classes and any AP class I could handle,” she said. “For science, I’ve taken honors chemistry and AP chemistry. I’ve always liked math so I thought why not challenge myself and take it to the highest level the school has to offer—Calc. 3.” What is striking about Ibrahim is how she proved herself as a wellrounded and forward-thinking student. Not only has she taken advanced classes that display her strengths, but she has also challenged herself by taking honors English all four years and even APPs. She volunteered as a tutor in ACE and also has held retail jobs. She took the ACT twice to receive a better score.

Ibrahim receives her support from her teachers, but her motivation comes from herself and her personal drive toward a successful future. “I think it’s a great accomplishment to get into college,” she said. “That’s pretty much why you work so hard in high school.” She recognizes the importance of college to an individual and to society. College teaches responsibility, independence, and challenging oneself. It’s more than a grade.

That’s exactly how Ibrahim demonstrates an ideal image of success. “Whatever I do, I always try to make it fulfilling, I always try to make it meaningful,” she said. “If I’m taking a high math class or French 6, it’s because I want to challenge myself and make my brain grow, and I want to be fluent in French.”

Ibrahim wants other students to know that they don’t have to go to a top, fancy school to accomplish something or be successful. She wants them to know that “as long as you work hard, there’s nothing that can hold you back.”

EPHS presents a powerful example of resilience. It’s a place where people embrace challenges, develop lifelong strengths and fulfill short and long term goals.

From student to teacher efforts, from societal to individual accomplishments, this community is wealthy with the overcoming of defeat and the celebration of success.

March 2015 -- theeyrie.org

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Opinion

Staff Editorial: ISIS LOVES MINNESOTA by eyrie staff The Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant, or ISIL/ISIS, is a notorious terrorist organization that has laid claim to a considerable amount of land in the Middle East.

In addition to this, they have performed numerous atrocities and human rights violations against civilians.

Even Al-Qaeda, the ones responsible for the September 11 attacks, consider ISIS over the top. Its goal is to establish a caliphate, also known as a Muslim empire and unify the Arab nations under a banner of violent Islamism.

For most people the thought of decapitating another human with a knife is at least an unpleasant one.

Unfortunately a significant number of young men and women in the United States are signing up to do exactly that. Even worse, Minnesota is one of the organization’s primary recruiting stations. ISIS mostly

targets the Twin Cities area for potential young recruits.

Teens are seduced by ISIS for several reasons. The first is that the ISIS is great at using propaganda. Their public relations team is definitely fairly competent at their job, since people who join seem to believe that it is actually possible for ISIS to establish a caliphate. ISIS breeds this hope by promoting the military successes they have had so far.

The goal of ISIS is unrealistic. Not only are they opposed by the nations they intend to control, they also have to contend with the Western world. Seeing that any legitimate armed opposition tends to stop ISIS in its tracks, shown by the Kurdish peshmerga, a caliphate under ISIS is very unlikely. In addition, the Western world’s military superiority will show up to oppose any threat to their resource rich allies.

Another reason for adolescents joining ISIS is that the terrorist group provides a sense of purpose and identity.

These teens are commonly disenchanted with the culture or society they live in.

Despite this being the primary reason young people join terrorist organizations, finding yourself does not really necessitate killing others. This mentality is not only the responsibility of these youth, but also the responsibility of the people around them. By being more inclusive of teens with Muslim backgrounds both the level of Islamophobia and ISIS recruitment levels are significantly reduced.

Lastly ISIS recruits disillusioned minds by claiming they represent the interests of true Muslims.

ISIS members are too busy killing other to actually follow Pillars 2-5 of Islam.

Simply put, if ISIS really was following “true Islam,” they would obey the basic acts of Islam that the prophet Mohammed established himself.

give vaccinations a shot Why vaccinations are necessary for our future.

BY TREVOR STANSBERRY Measles and whooping cough were thought to be diseases of the past, but recent outbreaks around the United States have proven differently. These epidemics are a direct result of the Anti-Vaccination movement that is storming our nation. Stemming from rumors and non-scientific studies, this movement is popular among first-time mothers and fathers. Not only is this detrimental to the health of their own children, but if left unmonitored it could affect hundreds of other children around the world. Sending a child or an adult who is carrying an evolved or mutated strain of measles into a public elementary school can be disastrous for the children and families that haven’t been exposed to it before.

Over the 200,000 years that human-like animals have been on this earth, disease and plague have wiped out millions of people. Whether it be the Bubonic plague or the Great Plague of Athens, disease is obviously a leading cause of death for us. As many know and appreciate, in the last 300 years our species has capitalized on the use of vaccination, or at least inoculation, to help create antibodies to prevent these deadly diseases, whather it be influenza and smallpox, from a.) Being deadly or b.) Affecting humans at all.

Call it what you will, but this process of nullifying the effects of microbes meant to kill us sounds like a good thing to me.

Being that vaccination has been the standard in our country for almost forty years (after the Expanded Programme of Immunization was released by the World Health Organization) our species has developed what is dubbed “herd immunity.” Basically what this means is that by living in large groups (which we do), where disease is prevalent (which it is), we can remove a disease from an area by starving it out. A.K.A, by vaccinating ourselves and our children we can get rid

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of deadly diseases.

Most of the reasoning stems from fear that standard vaccinations to diseases like polio and influenza because the vaccination may cause their children going blind or deaf or having diarrhea after receiving these vaccinations. These are certainly unfortunate tragedies, and no one in their right mind would wish them upon another human. But this does not mean that a large population of people living in the United States or elsewhere can choose not to vaccinate their kids. When parents refuse to vaccinate their kids, they are not only increasing the likeliness of the child getting the disease, but are increasing the chance of the evolution of these microbes. This hardheaded decision is now affecting dozens, if not hundreds or thousands of other families because we no longer have a cure for the evolved disease.

Despite the fears of physical harm by the vaccinations, there are other reasons for denying vaccines. Needing to stand out, to swim against the current, needting to be heard by something bigger than

oneself can easily be expressed in denying medicine that the “Big Pharm” tells you that you have to take.

The fact of the matter is that the best way to ‘stick it to the man’ is to vaccinate ourselves--is becoming immune to these diseases not good enough?

For parents that are still scared of the blindness and deafness that these vaccines “cause”, it may help to look at the raw facts: you have a higher chance of being hit by a bus any day of the week than you do of going blind from a vaccine. That is recognized by the

March 2015 -- theeyrie.org

AP Classes Don’t Prove Giftedness Claire Hassler Do you take hard classes, challenging your mind and embracing opportunities given to you by the Eden Prairie School District? If so, congratulations.

I appreciate your intellectual curiosity. Does that make you superior to your peers, who “only” take regular classes? Does that give you the right to judge others? Absolutely not.

There is a mentality in our school that you aren’t smart unless you take AP classes and that if you take AP classes, you are automatically going further in

life than those who don’t. Newsflash: Anyone can sign up for AP classes. Being in an AP class does not give you a free pass in life.

Students in AP classes are often referred to as “gifted kids” while students enrolled in regular classes are simply called “regular kids.” Defining “gifted” in this manner is outrageous.

For example, a talented musician devotes much of his time and energy to his music. He practices multiple hours a week and works professionally, pursuing his passion. If that same musician is not good at pre-calculus or memorizing vocabulary,

Photo By Amie Stager

does that make him an “un-talented” or “un-gifted” kid?

The most successful people in life are the ones who pursue their passions to achieve happiness. If someone’s passion isn’t school, and he decides that he doesn’t want to endure hours of homework and stressful tests, is he wrong? No. Before judging someone for being “less intelligent” than you, consider what they have going on in their life. A student with four younger siblings and a single mom who works full time might not have hours to dedicate to studying, so taking regular classes might be his/her only option.

Your schedule and GPA do not make or break your future; so much learning occurs outside of the classroom. Curious and adventurous students are the most intelligent. The city of Eden Prairie offers many unique places to explore and a variety of activities to be involved in.

If you want to increase your intelligence, join a club, visit Minneapolis, or spend time in a museum.

Ultimately, learning about the world around you is more important than overloading yourself with four AP classes.

Eden Prairie High School is an amazing school with an amazing staff, so no matter what classes you take, you will get a good education. Every student, whether taking all AP classes, a few AP classes, or all regular classes, has a support system at this school that is set up for success and a happy life.

It is important to bear in mind that people are so much more than a GPA and an AP test score.

Instead of investing so much interest in academics and test scores, students at EPHS should ask their peers about their interests and passions. This would help change the negative mentality that fosters a gap between “AP students” and “regular students.”

No excuse for Embracing Islamaphobia

BY ANDREW DONOHUE Since 9/11, Europe has become an increasingly difficult place for Muslims. They have been harassed, taunted and discriminated against. Anti-immigrant parties such as the National Democratic Party in Germany and the National Front in France have become increasingly popular. Laws have been passed that target Muslims and restrict display of their religions in public. These issues came to the forefront of the public consciousness after the Charlie Hebdo shootings in Paris.

Muslim terrorists attacked the French satirical magazine after it published unflattering caricatures of the Prophet Muhammad. Twelve people were killed in the attack which was vehemently condemned by Western as well as Muslim countries.

The response by the people of Europe to the these attacks is what troubles me.

There were 54 anti-Muslim incidents in France during the week after the shooting. Grenades were thrown at Mosques and other Islamic centers. Threats against Muslims also increased dramatically. This is a despicable response to the Charlie Hebdo shootings. The best way to help end violence and tensions is never to escalate things yourself. The overwhelming majority of Muslims had nothing to do with the attacks and were horrified by the violence. In troubled times like these, people from different backgrounds need to come together and preach tolerance, not

Opinion

condemnation.

Governments must make efforts to reach out to the Muslim communities within their countries. They have become increasingly estranged and that is a recipe for disaster. Estranged, bitter youth have a much higher chance of expressing their feelings through violence and destruction. Many of the recruits for jihadist groups like ISIS and Al-Qaeda are such youth, who have great potential, but become disaffected and turn against their home country. We must engage these people so that they feel wanted and like an important part of society.

Greater opportunities, either through scholarships to promote learning or job options to ensure that they are employed, are key to stabilize these populations.

As Muslims become a greater percentage of the population in a country, there needs to be a no-tolerance policy to discrimination towards them by both the people and the government. There is absolutely no difference between antiMuslim sentiment and anti-Semitism. If this discrimination is allowed to fester and grow it can take root in the darkest elements of society, which would be a black stain on any country that allows this.

Muslims should be embraced and celebrated, not scorned. Our differences should not hinder us, but allow us to drive forward together, to form a greater tolerant, global community.

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Working builds character

BY KRISTINA BRIANT The legal age to be considered an adult in Minnesota is 18 years old. For most of us, that is one to four years away. Within an approximate four years time, you will be seen as an “adult.”

Don’t get me wrong, I totally support the whole “you’re only a teenager once so enjoy it while you can,” phrase, but that doesn’t mean you can’t get a job. Having a regular, paying job teaches you responsibility and forces you to be in charge of your

life financially.

Having a job will also set you up for all the challenges adulthood offers. You learn how to handle money, communicate and deal with customer relations, and improve upon your leadership skills.

Also, you can make a lot of new friends within the workplace.

There are so many options you can choose from as to where you should work. You don’t necessarily have to only work in the fast food business. Choose a place that best suits your personality and interests.

Retail, food and hardware are among the many options you can pick from.

Sure, we all have homework to do, extracurricular activities to participate in, and a social life to balance, but within all this chaos teenagers can still manage to fit in time to work. Whether it being only part-time, working a couple days a week or a more regular job four to five times a week; anything is better than nothing.

Be more in charge of your life and stop living out of your parents’ wallets.

Dressing down the Dress code: Does my shoulder turn you on?

BY LUCI BESSINGER

O

ur school has publicized the idea that girls are “distractions” if they do not wear a parka every day. Yes this is an exaggeration, but you understand my point.

If you are sexualizing me, you are the problem, not my clothes.

What if I am only able to afford one pair of shorts that are shorter than the dress code, should I not go to school? I wonder if the deans have ever thought of this scenario.

I understand that we don’t want students walking around naked, but honestly…there is no reason why I shouldn’t be allowed to wear a tank top to school when it is 90 degrees outside.

If you think my shoulder is a “distraction,” you need help. Dress attire should only be chosen by parents or the student themselves.

When a school official pulls you aside and tells you that you don’t have enough clothes on, don’t you feel objectified? They then proceed to tell you to change. When you don’t have extra clothes, you have to wear a pair of shorts from the lost and found. Just to make it clear, the line was crossed multiple sentences ago.

Everyone says that boys get dress coded too, but really? Maybe three boys a year get dress coded for wearing a “bro-tank.” I estimate that more than half of the girls at this school have been dress coded for “too short of shorts” or “too skimpy of a shirt.” Have you ever wondered why this is?

My education should not be affected by how my clothes affect boys’ thoughts. If you take me out of school because my shirt is “too revealing,” you are essentially telling me that hiding my body is more important than my education.

Overall, I am not advocating for students to walk around the school in bathing suits but really…if high school students are expected to know what they want to do for the rest of their lives, they should be able to pick out their own outfits for school—we have dressed ourselves since preschool.

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Hats off to you... not

BY ANTHONY ROSA There is absolutely no reason for the ban on hoods and hats at EPHS. The ban originated 11 years ago when there was a suspicion of a gun on campus, and it was hard to identify students due to the hoods and the hats that they were wearing. Today, with the advances in technology and security cameras, identification is a non-issue.

Principal McCartan arrived at EPHS with the ban in place. When asked what the safety risks were with wearing a hood or hat to school, Principal Conn McCartan replied, “I can’t, with a straight face, argue safety with you about it.” Hoods and hats pose no threat to security at EPHS. Hats such as beanies do not block the face at all. Hoods are no more restrictive than a Hijab, which has posed no safety or identification issues for the school.

So, if the ban has nothing to do with safety, why does it still exist? According to the principal, it’s about adding a sense of formality and engagement to school. McCartan believes, “We don’t need to be as formal as church, but we’re a little more formal than just hanging around.” Our First Amendment right to dress how we choose is being infringed upon so we don’t look like we are hanging around.

That’s pretty ridiculous.

Our Constitutional rights are no longer rights when they can be taken away. They are mere privileges that are stolen by school authorities who exert their power over us. School should have nothing to do with the way you choose to express yourself. It should be about learning, and last time I checked, a hat didn’t lower my attention span or intelligence.

Also, sweatpants are informal, but they are still allowed. When presented this contradiction, McCartan responded, “If it’s about consistency, I’ll tell you, you got me.”

PHOTO BY TREVOR STANSBERRY The ban on hoods and hats has no safety benefits, strips students of their First Amendment rights, and is admittedly rooted in inconsistent beliefs.

It is time to move forward, remove a pointless ban, and give students their rights back. To sign my petition go to http://goo.gl/mSO3SC.

September 2014 -- theeyrie.org

point/counterpoint: citizenship test

More informed students lead to a more informed country

Tests don’t shape good citizens

School Start times need to be changed

every year. When you don’t get enough sleep, you are more likely to get in an accident. This is a serious problem that must be addressed.

A recent poll conducted by the National Sleep Foundation found that 60% of children under the age of 18 complained of being tired during the day. To support this, countless conversations among students at EPHS start out with “I’m so tired today” or “I got no sleep last night because I had so much homework.”

This should be a wake up call to principals, administrators, and teachers because students are not getting the sleep they need. Sleep is extremely crucial to functioning properly every day.

In addition, studies show that most teenagers’ brains aren’t ready to wake up until eight or nine in the morning, which is during first hour at EPHS. Teens who have to get up before their internal clock buzzes miss out on an important phase of REM sleep that is important for memory and learning. This is clearly a problem.

A later start time may not be ideal for every parent and student’s lifestyle, but there are many more pros than cons. I believe everyone would benefit from this in the long run.

The majority of high school students here at EPHS receive an endless amount of homework, lead busy lives, and are involved in time-consuming sports. Being exhausted and waking up at the crack of dawn every day shouldn’t be a priority.

Lack of sleep can easily lead to sickness, injuries behind the wheel, and sleep deprivation. Everyone could definitely use a few more hours of sleep.

BY CLAIRE HASSLER

Peoples’ character and dedication to their country should determine whether they are a good citizen- not their test scores. Requiring the citizenship test for

BY GILLIAN HOLTE graduation places values on all the wrong things.

If you are concerned about U.S. citizens lacking basic political knowledge, Legislators in Arizona are moving in the right direction towards creating don’t be. American Government is a required course to graduate, and it involves more informed young Americans. Earlier this year Arizona passed a law a final exam. Students who want to learn about how the government works will requiring high school students to pass the civics portion of a U.S. citizenship in this class, and ultimately, those are the students who will become actively test in order to receive their diploma. The test would involved in politics in the future. analyze students on the Founding Fathers, the Bill As unfortunate as it is to think about, the fact is that of Rights and the United States presidents. The not everyone likes politics and not everyone cares basic knowledge of the American Government about the government. While I agree that this is a is something all Americans should know. I am flaw in society, it seems extreme to deny a diploma to not saying I would be able to pass this someone who lacks extensive knowledge in a certain test right now, but it is something I am subject area. willing to work towards.

As it is, students at EPHS are required to I think it is a great idea to test take many tests in order to graduate. Every high school students on the history and semester, students experience the stress of finals current standings of the United States. week.

As Americans born in this country, When stressed-out students are forced we are not required to take the test to take a test, they cram a few nights before to consider ourselves citizens. We and then forget everything that they learned just are. This causes students to lose a week later. In the long run, what is the point the chance to really learn how their of adding another test to the curriculum if no government works. I believe students one will remember the material shortly after need to know basic information about taking it? the government. How can students be Before making graduation requirements, trusted to make important political it is also important to consider how diverse decisions when they lack the basic the student body is. Having all students take understandings of the political system? the same test is not a fair way of evaluating It is important to vote and it is also students’ intelligence. important to know what you are voting Some students are bad test takers, but love for. Students who are taking this test are to learn. And what about students with learning obtaining knowledge of the government disabilities? Deciding who needs to take the test is that could ultimately influence their a slippery slope, and there is no sure way of deciding decisions on who and what they vote for. who is eligible. So ultimately what will the long-term The test would force students to really comprehend result be of forcing students to take the citizenship test? A GRAPHIC BY ZOE GLENN the political system instead of just attending a lower graduation rate? Nice. government class. They would have to know the information in Schools should emphasize that being a U.S. citizen is more than just knowing order to graduate high school. It is important to raise informed citizens because basic facts about government, and that good citizens are the ones who help they are going to influence the direction of our country. others and work hard.

BY ABBEY MERTZ

For decades, school start times have ranged between 7 and 9 a.m. The 7:50 a.m. start time at EPHS is ridiculously early for not only me, but almost all of the student body. According to the National Sleep Foundation, teens need 8 to 9 hours of sleep each night. In contrast, over half of high school students get less than seven hours. Early start times are definitely an increasing problem among schools across America.

Since many students at EPHS take challenging courses, they are up until the break of dawn every night hurriedly trying to finish their homework. Because of this and the busy lives teenagers lead, evidence suggests that teenagers are seriously sleep deprived. Also, biological sleep patterns shift toward later times for both sleeping and waking during adolescence. If school start times were later, teens wouldn’t be completely exhausted.

A risk of not getting enough sleep is often becoming tired while driving.

Drowsiness and falling asleep at the wheel causes more than 100,000 car crashes

Opinion

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Opinionettes Take a break from dieting

A High price on Education

BY HANNAH BELONGIE Spring break and summer closer than we know it, which means that girls and boys are already starting to prepare themselves in order to have the “perfect” beach bodies. It is totally normal to want to feel and look confident in a swimsuit, but this goes to a certain extent. There are many people out there who believe that putting themselves on a silly, so called “diet” is going to suddenly make them lose 10 pounds. Well actually, no that’s not how it works. People need to realize that in order to lose weight the healthy way, it involves getting off their couch and going to the gym. Yes, in some cases diets can be helpful, but that is only when one is not starving themselves. So with spring break coming up, try to motivate yourselves to head to the gym or go for a run outside. Running a few miles might even enable you to still have a bag of potato chips once in a while.

Becoming a tech Wiz

BY YASMIN CHAVEZ Our society is living in the digital world. In order to prepare students for their technological future, schools require them to take computer classes. At EPHS, students are given a choice between computer technology and computer science, but students should not be given this choice. It should be a requirement to take computer science. In a world driven by technology, we should know how a computer works. We all know how to use Microsoft and PowerPoint. We have been using it since elementary school. In a technologically advanced society, most of us do not even know the basics of coding, which is a skill highly valued in many jobs. Taking computer science holds many benefits, and it is a useful skill to have for the future. It is a class where students learn skills that will be applicable outside the classroom and used in everyday life. As a citizen of the digital world, every student should know the basics of how a computer functions.

Read, no reply

BY GRACE KASBOHM Read 11:54 AM. I love read receipts because when I am mad at someone I will simply read their text and not reply. When most people see this pop up on their phone, they soon become very annoyed. That is the beauty of the read receipt.

The ability to let others know you are mad at them without even saying anything.

When I want to prove my point to someone, rather than sending a rudely worded text, I will most likely read it and not respond. To some this may be even worse than not responding, but I think that it is a more effective way to let someone know you are mad at them. I don’t like to sugar coat things, so if I am mad at you, I will let you know.

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BY SAM SCHIRRING Recently, I shelled out $260 for the privilege of taking four AP exams this coming May. Don’t mistake this for sarcasm; I recognize that I am privileged to have the ability to take rigorous classes. However, paying this extravagant of a price for the opportunity to enhance my education is ridiculous.

The College Board, a non-profit organization, has been the subject of criticism for its excessive profits. In 2009, the CEO of the company made $1.3 million.

That money is coming directly from students who will presumably also be paying college tuition in a few years.

The College Board has also been criticized for basically claiming a monopoly over the Advanced Placement system, as there are no widely accepted or easily accessible alternative programs to the College Board’s AP program. Because a culture has been cultivated in which AP credits are expectations when applying to colleges, students have little choice but to hand over whatever amount the College Board asks of them.

One could say that $91 is a much smaller amount than what a student would pay to take the course in college, but when fewer and fewer colleges are accepting AP credit (or are demanding higher scores for credit), and when taking these tests is becoming more and more standard in order to even be accepted into colleges, these arguments begin to lose merit.

Raise minimum wage

BY MURPHY HULLET NELSON

You know what sucks? Working in fast food restaurants. You’re on your feet all day and you have to deal with the moodiest population in America: hungry people. Fast food isn’t the only job that’s awful; working any minimum wage job is a struggle. These people who work multiple low-wage jobs work harder than anyone in America. They don’t only have to deal with the population’s mood swings, but they also have to do mostly physical tasks that require strength and stamina. Wal-Mart just raised the wage of their lowest-grade workers, as I think all large companies should do.

While CEO’s and businessmen bath in their money, the proletariat barley have enough money to feed themselves. America needs to help people live better.You know what sucks? Working in fast food restaurants. You’re on your feet all day and you have to deal with the moodiest population in America: hungry people. Fast food isn’t the only job that’s awful; working any minimum wage job is a struggle.

These people who work multiple low-wage jobs work harder than anyone in America. They don’t only have to deal with the population’s mood swings, but they also have to do mostly physical tasks that require strength and stamina. Wal-Mart just raised the wage of their lowest-grade workers, as I think all large companies should do. While CEO’s and businessmen bath in their money, the proletariat barley have enough money to feed themselves. America needs to help people live better.

March 2015 -- theeyrie.org

Athletes Don’t Need More Food, Really?

BY JEAN PIERRE TOSSA Less food makes better athletes. That seems to be the mentality of whoever is in charge of school lunches in EPHS. Since athletes are evidently struggling with severe obesity problems, they have their lunches reduced along with the rest of the students.

It’s not like they burn most of the calories they consume during lunch after school or anything. They just sit around at practice munching on protein bars and consuming massive amounts of whey. As a matter of fact, all studies ever conducted point to the idea that athletes actually need to consume fewer calories than their non-athlete peers. This due to all athletes having an inherent ability to not only acquire nutrients from their environment through the use of osmosis, but also to absorb sunlight and convert it to energy. Even if they are inside.

Unfortunately, some misguided “scientists” claim that athletes need more calories in order to maintain a high performance level. They use ridiculous arguments like low calorie consumption being a health hazard. Or even worse, the more activity a human participates the more energy they burn.

First Lady Michelle Obama’s mandatory anti-child obesity program should be enforced at all costs. EPHS cannot have athletes that start using resources like food to improve performance. Better results in competitions would tarnish the reputation of this school.

Therefore, the crusade must be continued. EPHS, through the careful rationing of its obviously small food supply, must eradicate all obesity in the student population. Especially with athletes. Regardless of whether or not it exists.

Opinion

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Profile

Living in an ice cream

W

Wonderland

BY YASMIN CHAVEZ

ith a 24-hour access to ice cream, junior Lamson Nguyen is living the dream. Nguyen’s parents are the proud owners of an ice cream shop, known as the Edina Creamery, which is open all year round.

Nguyen remembers he was in second grade when his parents bought the shop.

“It was really fun and cool to have an ice cream shop. It still is cool because I can have any ice cream I want,” Nguyen said.

The Edina Creamery, located near 50th and France in Edina, is known for its delicious, creamy ice cream. They make everything homemade from the ice cream to the ice cream cones.

The Edina Creamery first opened in 1998 by a different couple who decided

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to sell the small ice cream shop in 2007. Nguyen’s family heard the news about the shop for sale because they owned a nail salon next to the ice cream parlor. During this time, Nguyen’s parents were looking to get into a new business; they decided to seize the opportunity to buy it.

Ethan Nguyen (not related) is a friend of Nguyen and a regular customer at the Edina Creamery. He considers it cool how the Nguyen family is involved in a family business because it holds more value to the family.

As a frequent visitor of the ice cream parlor, Ethan Nguyen describes the interior of the ice cream shop and its atmosphere. Ethan Nguyen said, “It’s pretty cool. It reminds me of a diner atmosphere. It’s small and personal.” He also adds how delicious the ice cream is at the Edina Creamery.

WONDERLAND continued on pg. 32>>

March 2015 -- theeyrie.org

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<<WONDERLAND from pg. 30

During his time working at the ice cream parlor, Nguyen has learned various things from his experience. “It is my first job. It’s really rewarding working there According to Nguyen, another one of the benefits of his parents owning an ice because you get to meet new people. I learned a lot not just about ice cream, but cream shop is that he is able to work there and not worry about finding a job. how to interact with people and learn about what they do,” he said.

As a dedicated and hard worker, he has multiple tasks within the ice cream Nguyen said that the shop will only be open for another year or two as his shop. His job consists of working as the cashier as well as making the ice cream and parents are looking to get out of the business because Minnesota does not have the the cones. “Everybody who works there can make ice cream and cones. Everyone most favorable conditions for owning an ice cream shop due to the cold weather. needs to know how to do it,” Nguyen said.

Ethan Nguyen said that he will greatly miss the Edina Creamery: “It‘s sad Workers at the ice cream parlor have the liberty of inventing and creating many because I really like the place and it served good ice cream.” delicious and unique ice cream flavors. The sea salted caramel ice cream has won Nguyen will greatly miss the ice cream parlor where he had made many friends, the praise of many of their customers. acquaintances, and memories. “It is a predictable end and I’ll miss my coworkers Nguyen himself has taken the opportunity to be creative and experiment with the most. Although we’ve all formed close relationships outside of work, seeing different flavors. He put his ice cream expertise to the test when he made a lemon them regularly won’t be an opportunity for me after high school when the shop is and cherry flavor for his TEN talk school project in Honors English 10 last year. gone,” he said.

Shane and Emma-Lisa Tibiatowskia enjoy ice cream cones on a Saturday afternoon.

PHOTOS BY TREVOR STANSBERRY

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March 2015 -- theeyrie.org

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Resident Camp

Held weekly all summer, plus a special Teen Week July 19-24.

Northwoods Adventure Trip

Embark on the ultimate journey! We depart from Tanadoona and head north to our sister camp, Camp Bluewater, for a 4-day canoe trip through a chain of lakes within the Chippewa National Forest.

www.CampTanadoona.org 3300 Tanadoona Drive, Excelsior, MN 55331 info@campfiremn.org | (612) 235-7284 Tanadoona is owned and operated by Camp Fire Minnesota and is accredited by the American Camp Association.

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Feature

The cool Kids

Students participate in this year’s Polar Plunge for Special Olympics Minnesota

H

BY MAX CHAO undreds of people line the beach as the festivities commence.

The Emcee initiates the countdown on his bullhorn and the crowd joins in soon after. “3! 2! 1!” The crowd cheers as the first plungers enter the icy water. Local law enforcement officers are the first to break the ice, and many other groups follow suit. The eighth annual Eden Prairie polar plunge had begun.

The Polar Plunge is a charity event in which participants jump into a frozen lake in order to raise money for the Minnesota Special Olympic games. The games give people with mental disabilities an opportunity to train and compete in athletic sports and events. “Special Olympics Minnesota strives to provide people with intellectual disabilities the ability to transform themselves, their communities and the world,” said Sydney Borchert, an intern for Special Olympics Minnesota and EPHS graduate.

Since its inception, the Eden Prairie Polar Plunge has raised over $400,000 and the whole state has raised almost $4 million. While the idea of a ‘polar bear plunge’ is common all over the country, the Special Olympics Minnesota events are exclusive to the state and occur in many different locations from Minneapolis to Duluth.

Every year, many different organizations ranging from businesses to schools take the plunge, but this year was the first time for the EPHS Friends Forever club. The club’s main purpose is to form connections between regular ed and special ed students in the school, which makes the Polar Plunge an obvious choice as a group activity. “Some of our special ed students had done it before as well as some of our regular ed kids, so we thought, ‘why not do it as a group?’” said

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Sue Donkersgoed, advisor of the club.

Many of the club’s members are active with the Special Olympics, both as participants and as coaches. EPHS Freshman Olivia Mikkelson is a swimming coach for Special Olympics Minnesota’s Young Athletes program, which helps mentally disabled kids from 2 to 7 years old participate in sports. Her family has been active in participating and coaching for the Special Olympics for years because her brother has autism. “You need to be good with little kids and you have to be good with special ed kids,” said Mikkelson. “You just need to have the physical capabilities and be able to show them how to swim.”

On the day of the event, hundreds of people line Lake Riley to watch 750 people take the plunge. “I’m looking forward to it, it’s great fun, its fundraising and it supports the Special Olympics,” said Donkersgoed. She was accompanied by eight other members of Friends Forever, including Mikkelson, who plan to jump together. As the day progresses, more and more groups take the plunge; some are veterans who leap in with confidence and style while others are newcomers who gingerly hop in.

When it’s finally time for the Friends Forever to jump, most of the participants are already warming up back in the tent. However, the crowd still cheers for every group that jumps. “It was great! It was cold,” laughed Donkersgoed afterwards. “The initial hit was cold, but I got warm by the time we were taking pictures.”

Although the jump may have been unpleasant physically, every member of Friends Forever wore a smile on their face. “We’ll do it again next year, with a bigger group,” said Donkersgoed.

February 2015 -- theeyrie.org

STAYCATION

Places to visit around the Twin Cities during break PHOTO AND STORY BY GRACE KASBOHM

PHOTO SUBMITTED

Not everyone in Eden Prairie has the opportunity to go somewhere warm for spring break. If you happen to be one of these people, check out these places in the metro-area where you can have a “stay-cation”.

The Eagan Outlet Malls

750

people participated in this year’s Polar Plunge

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were from Friends Forever More than

$160,000 was raised

Feature

Eagan Outlets Parkway, Eagan, MN 55122 Opening just this past summer, the Eagan Outlet Mall is still relatively new. With over 100 stores having discounts from 25 percent to 65 percent off regular merchandise prices, it is any avid shopper’s paradise.

Go on a college tour

St Thomas: 2115 Summit Ave, St Paul, MN 55105 The University of Minnesota: Minneapolis, MN 55455 It is never too early to tour a college, and we have some great colleges right here in the Twin Cities. The University of St. Thomas being a bit smaller private school, while the University of Minnesota is much larger public school. Schedule a tour online and go check it out.

Blackbird Café

3800 Nicollet Ave S, Minneapolis, MN 55409 About 20 minutes northeast of Eden Prairie, Blackbird café is a quaint café with a unique menu pleasing almost everyone.

The café is for anyone who enjoys trying foods with a different spin on a common dish. A favorite of many is the ChickenLemongrass Pot stickers. Open Monday-Saturday 8 a.m.midnight and Sunday 8 a.m.-2 p.m.

James J Hill House tour

40 Summit Avenue, St. Paul, MN 55102 Interested in history? Take a tour of the James J Hill House, more

appropriately called a mansion, covering almost 90,000 square feet. This was the home of James J. Hill, builder of the Great Northern Railway. Touring this house will show you how the wealthy lived in the late 18th century. If the temperature is right, you can take a separate outside tour of the house and see other mansions on Summit Avenue. Admission is $6 for children 6-17, and $9 for adults.

Walker Art Center

1750 Hennepin Ave, Minneapolis, MN 55403 If you enjoy contemporary art, The Walker Art Center is for you. The Walker Art Center focuses on the visual, performing, and media arts of this day in age. Taking a diverse approach to the creation, presentation, interpretation, collection, and preservation of art. Admission for children under 18 is free, and $9 for students. Open every day except Mondays.

Golf Zone

825 Flying Cloud Dr., Shakopee, MN 55379 If you want to get out and enjoy the fresh spring air, but are still a little worried about the temperature, head to over to Golf Zone. Featuring their 40 heated stalls, you can be outside, enjoy practicing for the upcoming season, while staying warm. If you are interested in the year-round driving range a small bucket is $4.95 (50 balls), a medium bucket is $6.95 (80 balls), and the large bucket is $8.95 (120 balls).

Varsity Theater

1308 4th St SE, Minneapolis, MN 55414 If you appreciate live music, you should definitely look into Varsity Theater. Their prices of concerts are usually much more reasonable than most, and you can purchase tickets the day of the show for $25. Andy Grammer will be coming March 29, 2015.

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Before

iPhoneography How to take better photos on your iPhone

BY ZOË GLENN Seven Tips for Better iPhonography 1. In camera settings, make sure the grid is on. This will help you keep composition in mind and make sure your photos are straight.

2. Take multiple shots of the same subject, even if its from the same angle so you have more options to choose from.

3. Shoot in natural light. This is one of the most important things when it comes to taking pictures with your phone. It allows for higher quality photos that you can do more with.

4. Keep your phone horizontal when you take photos. This is mainly preference, but it helps to take in more pixels and allows for optimal cropping (especially if its final destination is Instagram).

After

5. Edit your photos. This is a huge advantage to iPhoneography.

You can take a photo and upload it into an editing app right then and there.

6. Beware of over editing. Enhance the features of each photograph in a natural way. When you’re done it should look like the same photo.

7. Follow inspiring iPhoneographers on Instagram. Inspiration and learning comes from work that has already been done and keeping your eyes open. Watch more, read more, listen more. It will change how you see things.

People to Follow: •@deinisebovee •@typhen •@bethanycatherine •@alexstrohl •@zoegglenn (had to) Apps to download: My everyday app is VSCOcam. I’ve used for three years now and absolutely love it.

If I Ruled...

BY ABBY WARRICK EPHS students share their thoughts about what they would change if they ruled the world.

“I would cure AIDS.” – Jeff Athey

“I would remove the ability to form hatred and prejudice. Living life happier and spending less time fighting.”

– Natalie Nordskog

“I would change less time on technology and social media and more time exploring the world around you.” – Eli Omae

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“I would change North Korea’s political system.”

– Kate Zucker

February 2015 -- theeyrie.org

DIY: Peep Pops PHOTOS AND STORY BY HANNAH BRANDSER

Springtime is just around the corner and who doesn’t love a cute, springy treat? These white chocolate Peep pops are a perfect treat for any occasion.

Ingredients:

-1 package of Peeps -White chocolate melting wafers -Sprinkles of any kind -Lollipop sticks

Directions:

1. Melt the chocolate in a microwave safe container 2. Take a Peep and dip it into the melted white chocolate 3. Before the chocolate sets, shake sprinkles onto the white chocolate end 4. Lay each Peep on a piece of wax paper 5. About two minutes after setting the Peep on wax paper, stick a lollipop stick into the bottom of the Peep 6. Enjoy!

“Give everyone a choice in things because happy people are good people.”

– Maya Subramanian

“I would change the way people look at material items.”

– Kevin Adah

“I would change how people don’t give others a chance based off of how they look or dress or walk or talk.”

– Aaron Tsuchiya

“I would change the way people view themselves because people don’t realize how valuable they are.” – Payton Borg

“Equality in general, so everyone would have equal opportunity and all the same privileges so everything would be based on how hard you worked instead of your circumstances.”

– Matt Koepke

“I would want every single government to be secular so decisions would be made for the people.”

– Sam Leunig

PHOTOS BY HANNAH BRANDSER

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Workin’ it

Claire Hassler and Trevor Stansberry capture EPHS students at work

Senior Chantelle Tullman working the cash register at her mother’s bakery, Nothing Bundt Cakes.

Senior Clayton Stansberry works the bar at the Caribou Coffee near Kowalski’s.

Junior Camille Ramos is a member of the Art Team at the Minneapolis Institute of Arts. She assists visitors on Family Day, Third Thursday, and Rated T, a semi-annual teen event on Friday, April 24th.

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Senior Michael Anderson replaces a lamp in a light fixture above the EPHS Performing Arts Center. Anderson was recently hired by a multi-million dollar production company for his skills in lighting.

Junior Chloe Ramos works at the Minneapolis Institute of Arts as an Art Team member. She instructs visitors about crafts during Family Day, Third Thursday, and Rated T, a semi-annual teen event on Friday, April 24th.

February 2015 -- theeyrie.org

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