Trojan Tribune Issue 10 2014-15

Trojan Tribune

The

WAYZATA HIGH SCHOOL

Volume 33, Issue 10

News page 2

Features pages 6-7

Senior makes money gaming

plus.google.com

Senior mental health

Graphic by Hannah Weas

February 27, 2015 Sports page 12

Athlete profile: Nicole Schneider

Photo by Kraig A. Lungstrom

Yik Yak, a new app that allows users to post anonymously, has created a platform for cyberbullying at WHS.

Photo by Sonia Neculescu

Updated surveillance in the district

By ANNA RODRIGUEZ NEWS EDITOR

As part of the Wayzata School District referendum passed by district voters in 2014, Wayzata’s security and surveillance system is getting an update.

“All we are doing is improving technology for security in the high school,” said Principal on Special Assignment Scott Gengler.

According to the district electrician Dan Carlson the cameras haven’t been changed since the opening of the school in 1997. “They are well past their life expectancy,” said Carlson.

“Essentially we are switching from analog to digital technology,” said Carlson. “Almost all technology is changing to digital.”

Gengler said that the cameras are similar to the ones in malls and other such establishments.

According to Carlson, the cameras will not be installed in teaching spaces or bathrooms. “Stu-

dents will be able to clearly see all of the cameras.

They are not meant to be covert,” said Carlson.

The rumors that the cameras will have audio surveillance are false, according to Carlson.

“There are too many laws that we would get into,” said Carlson.

According to Minnesota statute 626A.02, “the interception and disclosure of wire, electronic, or oral communications is prohibited.”

“We’re not trying to spy at all. The cameras are purely there for the protection of the students,” said Carlson.

According to Gengler, the system is in place to deter certain behaviors in students and to monitor the building security. “It also gives us a resource to look back at something that has occurred. If someone’s iPad or phone has been stolen we can look and determine what happened,” said Carlson.

“It’s mainly used retroactively,” said Carlson.

According to Carlson,

Cont. page 2

New app creates platform for cyberbullying

By SONIA NECULESCU S E N I O R S TA F F W R I T E R

Yik Yak has led to mixed reactions from students, faculty, and the administration, and has negatively impacted individuals at WHS. Yik Yak, a social media app launched in 2013, allows iOS and Android users to post anonymously.

According to Andrew Quirk (12), “things that were once tweets are now ‘Yaks.’”

The app categorizes posts by location, allowing users to view, comment, and “up” or “down,” Yaks within a 10-mile radius from one’s current location. Though the app promises to remove posts including names and restricts use if too near to a school, it has influenced students at

WHS. Due to the increasing popularity of the app, students and teachers have visited Yik Yak. “I was afraid by what I would find, and I was right,” said Social Studies teacher Crystal Polski.

“I see funny comments and a lot of people complaining about their lives,” said Quirk.

“The Yaks I most was appalled by had to do with sexual activity and substance abuse. Some of them were very graphic about what they wanted to do to someone. I don’t know if I feel comfortable saying any of them,” said Polski.

“It was kind of depressing the more I looked at it. If somebody moronically left permanent marker in a middle school bathroom, that’s what you would find. It was middle school crap.

PSEO presents opportunities to upperclassmen

By MAX ZIMMERMAN S E N I O R S TA F F W R I T E R

Students at Wayzata High School plan their schedules and choose from a diverse range of classes, but some feel the best opportunity to learn is off Wayzata’s campus with the Post Secondary Enrollment Option, commonly known as PSEO. According to Counselor John Batalden, 10th, 11th and 12th graders are eligible to apply, and about 70 applicants from Wayzata are enrolled this year. They are able to take classes at local colleges with the most popular being Normandale, the University of Minnesota Twin Cities, or Hennepin Tech.

Information on the Minnesota Department of Education’s website explains how enrollees can earn free college credits that are transferable to many schools. Batalden reminds students that it is important to keep their grades up, Cont. page 3

I didn’t see anything that was really enlightening,” said Psychology teacher Kevin Johnson.

“The app allows students to be more free about what they say. It’s good because they can say what they’re actually thinking. It’s what nobody wants to say out loud but what everyone is thinking. That’s why its so attractive to people,” said Quirk.

However, the fact that users can post anonymously has become toxic. “If the app were to be used to talk nicely about people or not even involve people I think that it would be fine, but when it gets to being all negative then it’s a problem,” said Ally Cranfield (11).

“The app is really damaging because it allows people to spew things Cont. page 2 anonymously. When you

The Trojan Tribune {February 27, 2015}

Mixing business and pleasure

By MAX ZIMMERMAN S E N I O R S TA F F W R I T E R

Phone games have come a long way since Tetris and Pong. Whether passing those boring moments during class or taking a break at work, many kids and adults alike play games on their phones or tablets.

Game fads pass through schools and trend for as short as a week, like Trivia Crack, to as long as years like Clash of Clans. Creating popular games is a big business. But rarely does a student still in high school turn playing a time killing game into a clever, profitable endeavor.

Wayzata senior Jerry Paulson has always had a knack for business and re-

cently sold his Clash of Clans account, making a sizable profit. According to Paulson, he has played the game on his iPhone for 2 years, and his account is one that dominated the online community of “Clans”. In the game that’s available on most smartphone app markets, players join clans, build bases, and battle other people online.

Paulson said he joined a clan started by another Wayzata student, Ryan Holbeck.

His account reached a powerful level that caught the eye of other gamers as it continued to grow and develop.

Realizing that he might be able to sell the account to an interested beginning “clasher,” Paulson said he decided to make a Craigslist posting for the high-

ly coveted account. After considering 11 offers, Paulson sold the account to the highest bidder for $350.

“I got a lot of emails,” said Paulson, “but the highest bidder was a student at the University of Minnesota, who wanted to meet in person.” The transaction occurred at Ridgedale.

“We met up, I gave him the email and password associated with the account after he gave me $350 in cash, then we split.”

According to Paulson, he had no idea that playing Clash of Clans would turn into a unique entrepreneurial endeavor when he downloaded the game in his sophomore year. Two years later he is simply pleased to have Photo by Max Zimmerman made money on something that cost him nothing but time.

Jerry Paulson (12) plays Clash of Clans in his free time.

Aspire to drink better You may have noticed a new beverage in our high school culinary lunch lines.

Founded in 2012, Aspire is a local company co-owned John Montague, a Wayzata graduate, marketing executive and active entrepreneur, and Jesse Parker a marketing director and former executive of Intel corporation.

This new alternative athletic beverage that strives for the health and performance of all athletes.

These products are being sold in over 30 stores in the local Plymouth area, and can also be found all Target stores, Cub foods, Lunds, Byerlys, Kowalski’s, and Super

By MARISSA ABARA STAFF WRITER

this updated security system is being implemented in all the schools in the district.

“This also isn’t unique to Wayzata. This type of surveillance is commonplace in all schools,” said Carlson.

According to Carlson, no specific event

UPDATED SECURITY CONT.

take away accountability from what you are saying it makes it much easier to say things that are going to be harmful to others. I don’t know if these things that people were saying were true or if they were trying to get ups on their Yak in order to attract followers,” said Polski.

“Kids say a lot of things they probably wouldn’t. [The app] is also bad because they wouldn’t bully someone to their face but when they have what seems to be an anonymous persona they are more likely to say bad things,” said Quirk.

Cyberbullying has become a widespread problem for teenagers due to the internet, and Yik Yak only facilitates more harm.

Students at Wayzata have been attacked through the app.

Quirk has been targeted by users of the app. “I was affected, and I felt victimized,” said Quirk.

For Quirk, it began as a harmless game.

“When I went to a conference for Student Council, I was the subject of many Yaks.

Most of them were inside jokes. But then my number got posted,” said Quirk.

Quickly the Wayzata feed was filled with hundreds of posts about Quirk while his number was continually re-posted throughout the country. “Someone in Ar-

YIK YAK CONT.

America’s in Minnesota.

According to Montague, the college friends from the University of Minnesota, came up with the idea after the realization of how many students currently buy unhealthy sport drinks based on their strong marketing campaigns and how much of the sports culture those mainstream beverages have become. “I was working with the Mayo Clinic, trying to make some products focused on obesity and diabetes, and through that experience I got exposed to research and ideas on the impact that sports drinks have on particularly on young people,” said Montague.

“That really opened my eyes to the problem and then when my own children got to has sparked the update. “It’s purely an equipment upgrade,” said Carlson.

“The school has been planning this update for many years,” said Carlson.

“It’s a situation where we either pay for it now or pay for it later. It’s good to do it now since all the new construction is going on,” said Carlson.

izona posted my number and I got texts from all these people wanting to buy drugs from me. I was like, no I don’t have any drugs. I still get texts from Mankato and Brooklyn Park. It’s ridiculous!” said Quirk.

Cranfield was also victimized through the app. Her nightmare became a locally-based issue at WHS. She was the subject of many harassing and vulgar Yaks.

At first, it didn’t seem like action was necessary. “I just kind of let it slide,” said Cranfield.

The problem quickly became more widespread. “Every 10 minutes that I refreshed my feed, there was a new post about [Ally].

It was ridiculous, and I felt really bad,” said Hannah Olson (12).

Eventually the compounding posts became too invasive. “After a while I talked to Mrs. Olson, the PFAM teacher, who told me to talk to Mrs. Boyd,” said Cranfield.

Soon after administration took over. “After that [Mrs. Boyd] talked to the police officers in the building to figure out who was doing it. Some people were found but others weren’t,” said Cranfield.

In some cases, law enforcement can become involved. The police liaisons at WHS plan to increase Yik Yak involvement if activity becomes criminal. “At this point, it is not illegal, but it could get to that threshold if it gets to be harassing communications or

the age where they started playing a lot of sports and wanting to go into store and get a bottle of Gatorade I really realized first hand how strong those marketing messages are; how conditioned and how much of the sports culture drinking those beverages have become.”

“And so Jesse Parker and I just started talking about this one night and he had had some of those similar observations and feelings. We just got each other going and talked through it and agreed that it was something we wanted to do,” said Montague. “[Aspire] doesn’t put any of that junk or fake stuff in the product, which is respectable. Not something I would personally buy but I know that many of the athletes would. They are selling at other schools as well,” said Sue Johnson, head of culinary at WHS. “They actually brought it in one day over the summer to one of the football practices and gave every football player one to try and that’s how they introduced it into our school. They asked if they could bring it into culinary and see how it sells,” said Johnson.

According to Montague, Aspire meets

the all USDASmart Snacks in School guidelines and prides themselves on producing a brand and taste that students enjoy.

According to Montague, Aspire often participates in taste tests against Gatorade and Powerade and prevails against the sports drinks giants. “Culinary has actually been selling their products for 2-3 years now. It’s an okay seller but not as up there as Gatorade and our school water bottles. We sell less than 100 a bottles week,” said Johnson. However many of the metro schools are bringing in these drinks in hope of improving the physical health of their students, while also improving their foodservice program by selling Aspire in their cafeterias, student stores, and concession stands.

The company is also promoting Aspire, with coolers and water bottles through various teams and student-athletics. “Our drinks are in 18 states,” said Montague, “but in Minnesota we are in well over a hundred schools. Wayzata was a leader; they were one of the first schools to bring in Aspire, and the nutrition department at Wayzata is very respected by the other

threats,” said police liaison David Carlson.

“If specific students are being targeted I would imagine that that would fall under the same category as cyberbullying.

Any time something happening outside of school is impacting students’ health and social environment in school, that’s problematic,” said Polski.

However, school law enforcement cannot take action related to disciplining cyberbullies. “The state passed an anti-bullying law this past year, and that’s not a criminal thing; it mandates that the school takes control of that,” said Carlson.

School authorities hope to contain the harm caused by Yik Yak. “I haven’t arrested anyone, but I have talked to some kids about it. We’d much rather talk to kids and have it stop that way and get them to understand the stupidity of it and how toxic it is,” said Carlson.

Yet, there has been increased pressure for intervention by the school due to recent events. “In other states there have been students convicted of causing students to take their lives because the bullying got so bad. We certainly dont want that extent of things,” said Carlson.

Some local Yaks pose similar threats. “I saw a couple of posts where someone was saying something disparagingly about themselves with an emoji pointing a gun at

itself. If I saw that on a desk, I would have to report it, and I do,” said Johnson.

Though the school holds the responsibility to implement discipline in these cases, there is a fine line of what can be done. “ It’s hard. It’s kinda like, how much can I control? If Yik Yak doesn’t exist does that person still survive?” said Johnson.

The toxicity of the app has turned off previous users. “I would say I used to use it more, but now not as much,” said Quirk.

“In conversations I’ve had with students, students have talked about how they were originally on it but have not stayed. They’ve been really upset by what people had said,” said Polski.

Ultimately, the app taints Wayzata’s positive reputation. “Obviously it’s hurting people. It puts an image in your head that I don’t think is the norm at Wayzata,” said Polski.

“I just wish that people would keep their own business to themselves. If it doesn’t affect you, then why you do you feel the need to comment? Yik Yak could have been fun at Wayzata, but instead people had to turn it around to hurt other people,” said Cranfield.

THE TROJAN TRIBUNE

a leader; they were one of the first schools to bring in Aspire, and the nutrition department at Wayzata is very respected by the other schools throughout the Twin Cities and the state. So that was probably pretty influential to help so many other schools to adopt the drink.”

Wayzata athletic director Jamie Sher-

ASPIRE CONT.

wood said, “They are promoting themselves through all athletics. That’s their target market--their way in. They are using our athletes to earn those market shares. Years ago it used to be pop companies; Pepsi and Coke. They’ll give you their vending machines and 45-50 thousand dollars a year and even more towards athletic conferences. Then all the press came out as sugar and pop being bad, telling the schools to get that stuff

and that PSEO requires a student to self advocate.

PSEO students earn one credit at Wayzata for every two credits they earn at a college or online class. Certain requirements must be met specific to students academic circumstances in order to stay in the program. Juniors and seniors can choose to be part time or full time, but sophomores can only take one technical credit per semester.

According to Batalden, the program begins with an application specific to each school that students can fill out online, or on paper. Applicants must then submit test scores, either the Accuplacer or ACT scores, along with a blue transcript request sheet. In order to apply, one must meet with their counselor to ensure his or her eligibility through a credit check.

When a student is accepted into a PSEO program at a college, Wayzata covers their books and tuition, but the students must provide their own transportation and ensure that they take courses in PSEO that fulfill their academic requirements back at the high school. For juniors, this means fulfilling the U.S. History requirement and for seniors, the EAAPPSA requirement, formerly known as MoPro.

PSEO CONT.

out.”

“I think social media has been a big influence [in marketing the product], such as the Aspire athlete of the week,” said Sherwood.

“We do advertise through the student athletes. It’s a challenge because Coca Cola and Pepsi are such big companies and so many schools, athletic departments, teams, and leagues have agreements,” said Montague. “It makes it hard to work with a lot of them but what we find is that a lot of them end up working with us anyway because they want a better product. But it’s frustrating for us because people are drinking our product, but they are drinking it out of a Gatorade or Powerade bottle. We feel and believe that we created our drink for student athletes. And they were our target from day one.”

Senior Ashlee Melin is currently employed at Aspire and has been working on their “A Team” for the last 8 months.

“Working for them is pretty laid back and fun. Overall it’s just a great atmosphere. They have built a great youth community where they predominantly hire college and high school students.

It’s awesome how they promote health and exercise through the younger demographic,” Melin said. “ They are definitely focused with their vision and product. I think it’s better

Batalden emphasized that the program is not right for every student. “The PSEO Program is parallel to AP classes here at Wayzata,” said Batalden. “PSEO can be great for students who want to have more control over their time, or feel like they have run out of options at Wayzata, even though that can be hard to do.”

“The typical PSEO student,” said Batalden, “tends to be very self motivated and independent. They also have strong time management skills.” He also gives a word of caution to students, because enrolling in PSEO is a commitment that begins a student’s college transcript.

He also said that PSEO can disconnect students from the high school, which can be both positive and negative.

Senior Ashlee Melin is a part time PSEO student and is fond of the fact that she is earning credits in high school that are transferrable to colleges. Melin has a unique schedule. “I am in Journalism 2 first block, and Personal and Family Issues 2 second block. The second half of my schedule for two days a week is spent at Normandale Community College in Bloomington, where I take Sociology and Macroeconomics.”

She said that she likes the independence that PSEO gives her, but Melin also pointed out that one credit at

NEWS 3

because it’s healthier than other leading competitors like Gatorade and I think it’s great that our school offers this product in our cafeteria,” said Melin.

Lifetime Fitness carries Aspire Beverages at their LifeCafe destinations nationwide. Conveniently located inside 88 Lifetime destinations, Aspire fits in well with the other LifeCafe products because they offer a variety of fresh and healthy food items that are a healthier alternative. In addition to availability in LifeCafes, Aspire Beverages is the official sports drink of many of the Lifetime Fitness events such as Commitment Day, Turkey Day 5K and the Life Time Kids Tri. “We are already in 20 states and we want to continue to expand. We are opening 4-6 new offices in 2015. Optimally our real goal is to become the number one sports drink. Gatorade has about an 80% market share and Powerade has about 19% market share. Nationally our market share is very small but we have already gained a significant market share in Minnesota. We hope to be able to repeat that success in other states that we are going into,” said Montague.

“I would hope that if athletes like the taste and the health benefits of our product that they would drink it as a source of healthy hydration for as long as they are involved in sports,” said Montague.

Normandale is only worth half of one Wayzata credit.

“I really enjoy that three days out of the week I get to head home after second block ends,” Melin said.

Wayzata senior Emily Casha is enrolled full time at Normandale. “I made the mistake of scheduling time in between two of my classes, which I thought I would like,” said Casha. “But Normandale is in Bloomington, and there wasn’t much for me to do during that time except study.”

“I take Environmental Biology, College Algebra, Macroeconomics, Sociology, and an online Hospitality Marketing course. I have one class on Monday nights, and I also take Macroeconomics and Sociology to make up for Wayzata seniors’ social studies requirement, EAAPPSSA,” said Casha.

Casha said that she likes the diversity in her classes, but that not having the standards one can expect at Wayzata makes each of her classes very different, and a bit more challenging. “Each class really depends on the teacher, and how they want to do things. They don’t really have to meet a standard method like back at the high school.”

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The Trojan Tribune {February 27, 2015}

Students take advantage of low gas prices High School S E N I O R S TA F F W R I T E R s t u dents, by nature, strive to be independent from their parents both physically and financially. The recent drop in oil prices makes achieving this easier.

As a swimmer who drives himself to practice at Lifetime Fitness everyday, Gregg Arnold (12) finds himself spending more money on gas than he would like to each month. “It is nice to know that I don’t have to empty my wallet every time I fill up my tank now,” Arnold said.

“I am still amazed that I can fill my Jeep up for under $30,” said senior Erin Svensson.

By HANNAH WEAS

According to Arnold and Svensson the lower oil prices have helped students save money to put towards other things such as college and the occasional Starbucks run.

As some students are working to save their extra money, other students are using the low price of gas to justify traveling more often with the opportunity to fill up their tanks for less students are more open to exploring the cities around where they live.

Senior Grace Egan has felt the positive effects of the low gas prices in the past few months as she has spent many of her weekends exploring Minneapolis and St. Paul. “I feel better about taking trips to places like Minneapolis because I know that I am not wasting

as much money as I do when gas is $5 a gallon,” Egan said.

While some students find themselves more willing to venture out of the suburbs, senior Nick Walter reaped the benefits of the cheap gas as he took a road trip to Montana over winter break. “It was nice to know that I wasn’t completely breaking the bank as I drove the nearly 1,400 miles to Montana for a ski trip,” Walter said.

“Not only was I able to save money by driving, but I also saved more money than I thought I would by paying almost half of what I intended to pay for gas while on the trip,” said Walter.

On the other hand, many students are beginning to see the dangers of the sudden drop in prices. “The fall

in prices is good for the consumer but fails to yield a substantial profit for the oil industry,” junior Trevor Cammack said.

Senior Hannah Olson has seen the negative effects of the fall in prices first hand. “My grandparents own a rig in North Dakota that they are very proud of. However, with the cheap oil they are beginning to worry about their retirement and savings,” Olson said.

However, the low gas prices mean more money in our pockets for the time being, which can be appreciated by both students and their parents. For now, it is important to continue to take advantage of the low prices while they are available and put the extra money to good use.

Congenital heart defects impact on WHS T h e 2 0 1 5 S E N I O R S TA F F W R I T E R Heart We e k charity, Cakes from Grace, has brought congenital heart defects (CHDs) and the struggles that come with it to the attention of Wayzata High School students.There are many in WHS who already know CHDs well.

Junior Grace Iverson was born with three holes in her heart called ventricular septal defects ( VSDs), which caused a slight heart murmur for Iverson. At less than two weeks old, Iverson had heart surgery to widen her aorta. As well as having a narrow aorta, she also has a bicuspid aortic valve instead of the usual tricuspid valve. This anomaly makes blood flow difficult.

Currently, Iverson is not receiving B y M AG G I E H A R L E S S

treatments, but her heart is monitored by a sonogram each year. “In the future, whenever doctors think it is necessary, I will have a stent put into my aorta to keep it widened,” said Iverson.

Iverson said that the appointments with her cardiologist can be nerve-racking because of the uncertainty of the future. Nevertheless, she stays positive. “I have to reassure myself that my heart defects could be worse and that I shouldn’t worry so much because all of the defects can be easily fixed. Although it is difficult in the situation, it is better to think optimistically,” said Iverson.

WHS Environmental Science teacher Susie Newman also has strong ties to CHDs, but from a mother’s position. Shortly before Newman’s ten year old son Jayden was born she found out

that he would be born with a hole in his heart. After he was born, the Newmans learned that Jayden’s CHD’s were worse than they had expected.

Jayden was put on feeding tubes for the first few months of his life to become big enough for his first surgery.

The doctors first attempt at surgery was to go up through Jayden’s leg to put a balloon in his aorta to open it, but this was unsuccessful, so when he was 6 months old he had coarctation surgery.

This involved the doctors going in behind his shoulder blade, cutting the constricted part of Jayden’s aorta out, and attaching the ends. Then at one year, Jayden had open heart surgery to fix the hole in his heart, and at five he had surgery to replace a valve with another made from his own tissue.

“Jayden still will need further repair on the valve but we just go year to year now until that time comes,” said Newman.

Jayden is involved in hockey and lacrosse and loves doing everything that all rough and tumble 10 year olds enjoy. Newman said that unless they share his story, there is nothing different between Jayden and his friends and teammates. “There will probably come a time when he won’t be able to keep up with his fellow hockey players or lacrosse teammates, but for now, he is loving life and doing well. The heart thing was just a little speed bump he had to get through!”

Rimers of Eldritch takes the Black Box B y C A R LY S P OT T S - FA L Z O N E

The movie theatre, drug store and bank are closed down, and even the town hero is gone, killed in a car crash. The Wayzata Players depict this small town in the upperclassmen Black Box show, The Rimers of Eldritch.

The Rimers of Eldritch revolves around a murder trial in a small, run down, Bible Belt town that was once a prosperous mining community.

“Rimers is one of the few shows that gives context to multiple relationships in this small town through the eyes of the other citizens, while also giving the audience a chance to see beyond the characters’ reputations,” said Shivonne McCarthy (12).

The Rimers of Eldritch is about much more than just a murder trial. It gives an inside look at how this small town manages the shock to their community and reveals how one death can bring out the true nature of people.

“Rather than addressing important issues as a community, the characters in this town hide their true feelings and emotions, showing the innate characteristic of people to avoid difficult topics,” said Garret Lane (11). “That’s what rime is- a frost that glosses over everything, similar to how the people in Eldritch gloss over the issues occurring in the town.”

“I play a young girl named Eva Jackson,” said Annika Isbell. “This has been the most physically and emotionally challenging role I’ve ever played. Eva has been attacked, and you see her attack on stage in the second act.”

The script for the show is very different than S E N I O R S TA F F W R I T E R

what the Wayzata Players have worked with in he the past.

“This play has a very interesting structure,” said Isbell. “Information about the characters and the plot is revealed slowly and randomly: the play jumps around in time, and scenes are played out of order, or even more than once. You need to pay attention.”

The show is very contemporary in nature. “The hardest part was at the beginning; trying to figure out what this show even was, and really understanding it ourselves,” said Gina Carter (11).

The Rimers of Eldritch deals explicitly with very real and emotional topics such as physical abuse and sexual assault, which is another challenge the actors in the show had to overcome and process. “This show is very gritty, and that can be very tough for the actors. The realism of this show makes it even harder to maintain composure, especially during some of the darkest scenes of the play,” said Noah Aleshire (11).

“It’s not a comedy, but it makes a very clear statement about the dangers of thinking that you know the whole story, when in reality,the situation is more complicated than you know,” said Isbell “This cast is incredibly talented, so if you’re looking to see good theatre, please come see the show.”

You can see The Rimers of Eldritch February 27th at 7:00pm, and February 28th at 2:00pm in the Black Box theatre. Tickets are $10 for students and $15 for adults and can be purchased at the door.

Annika Isbell (12) and Lillian Walker (12) practice a scene in the Black Box Theater.

The crew of The Rimers of Eldtritch in the middle of an emotional scene.

Graphic

s by Ha

Depression a Mental healt nnah W eas

Survey findings

According to a survey conducted by the Trojan Tribune of seniors’ mental health, 43% of the seniors surveyed said that they felt anxious or depressed SENIOR GUEST WRITER 7-12 times or more in the last 12 months.

71% of those same students said that they have sought out help. Talking to a friend is the most common medium with a prevalence of 47%. In contrast, out of the same 43% of students with psychological disorder symptoms, 27% of them said they have not sought out help whatsoever.

According to the World Health Organization, the time period that is considered the block of adolescence is between ages 10 to 19. It is the time of the most rapid biological, psychological, and social development. This is the time when adolescents are most vulnerable to psychological disorders due to their need for independence, sourcing their identity, and social acceptance.

According to Find Youth Info, in 2010 49.5% of adolescents in America qualified with the criteria of a psychological disorder. The most prevalent amongst this population were anxiety disorders.

Research done on subjects with psychological disorders seeks to uncover correlations, causations, and effects.

Some examples of the most profound theories including either of the three built upon sleeping patterns, appetite patterns, mood patterns, immune system functions, physical activity and more.

Research is also conducted to bring insight on how subjects recover from psychological disorders. These include the help with talk therapy, biomedical, psychical activity, eating habits, and amount of sleep.

The Trojan Tribune survey asked questions about students’ behavior. For example, questions were asked regarding the students’ sleeping habits and physical activity.

According to the Trojan Tribune survey, 75% of the males said they were active 3 days or more in a typical week.

Out of the same sample of males 20% of them said they felt anxious, nervous,tense,scared, or panicked 7-12 times or more in the past 12 months.

38% of the senior girls surveyed that said they got 7 hours or less of sleep also said that they have had problems with feeling trapped, lonely, sad, blue, depressed or hopeless 7-12 times or more during the last 12 months.

The same 38% of senior girls also gave insight on the reasons that stood behind their lack of sleep. 50% of them said the reason was being overwhelmed with school.

The Trojan Tribune’s survey also inquired about the help sought or steps in response to the high frequency of feeling depressed or anxious.

Lastly, the Trojan Tribune concentrated on gathering information about drug and alcohol use. 27% of the seniors surveyed said that they use drugs or alcohol 3-6 times or more within a typical month. 23% of the seniors that used alcohol or drugs said that they occasionally or all the time use drugs or alcohol to cope with the feelings of depression or anxiety.

By ASHLEE MELIN

and anxiety: th at WHS

Photo by Sonia Neculescu

Overcoming Challenges

Students in Mr. Johnson’s psychology class watch “Overcoming Challenges.”

On Wednesday, February 25th, the annual “Overcoming Challenges” video was broadcast. The video features approximately 6 new students or faculty members every year who tell of the hardships they have faced and how they have conquered them. According to WHS social worker Alec Albee, the videos have been shown for the past 10-12 years. “We just decided to try it years ago and it’s the best thing we do. It’s better than something we could have gotten somewhere else because it features real kids from Wayzata,” said Albee.

The social workers work on the video for a few months to convey the most impactful message possible. According to Albee, the students featured in the videos are recruited by counselors, social workers, and Judy Hanson, the chemical health coordinator at WHS. Usually a few students volunteer to share their stories as well. “The kids are all so brave,” said Albee.

The video has proven to be effective. According to Albee, the video helps the school reach out to more students in need of help. “We find up to 50 kids that we didn’t know before after we show the video,” said Albee.

Students are now seemingly more receptive to seeking help. “I think the video takes away the scariness of talking to a social worker,” said Albee.

Positive feedback consistently follows. Social workers Becky Halverson as well as Albee have presented the idea for the video at conferences for other schools. Other schools have thus began to broadcast similar videos based on the idea developed at WHS. The students featured in the video have also received admiration for their participation. “99% of the responses from the follow up surveys are positive,” said Albee.

By SONIA NECULESCU S E N I O R S TA F F W R I T E R

STERN

AT THE REVIEWS BY ANDREW STERN

CINEMA

DESIGN BY DIAMOND SAMPSON

The SpongeBob Movie: Sponge Out of Water 2004’s The Spongebob Squarepants Movie is a spiritual experience. Okay, that’s a bit of an overstatement. It’s a spiritual experience to me though, because I was seven years old at the time of its release and I’ve watched it more times than I have any other animated film. Still, the original film is a great encapsulation of everything that is great about Spongebob. A lot of people even say that Spongebob lost its appeal after the movie. Personally, I stopped watching the show partway through the season following the film, however that may have been due to the fact that I was getting older. That said, I still watched the movie numerous times after I stopped watching the show.

Spongebob Squarepants was created by Stephen Hillenburg, who ran the show for the first three seasons. The movie was released shortly after the third season. Hillenburg wanted the movie to signal the end of Spongebob, due to fears that the show would “jump the shark”, but the show’s popularity caused Nickelodeon to order a fourth season. Hillenburg resigned from the showrunner position and staff writer Paul Tibbitt took over. However, Hillenburg returned to the show as a writer with The Spongebob Movie: Sponge Out of Water.

lows Spongebob and the crew after the ‘Krabby Patty’ formula disappears and ‘Krabby Patties’ can no longer be made. The town becomes ravenous and everyone looks for an explanation of where the formula went. Similar to the original film, a small

FIFTY SHADES OF GREY 50 Shades of Grey is the definition of pure hype. The book that the movie is based off of has sold over 100 million copies worldwide and is the highest selling erotic fiction novel of all time. The story of both the film and the book involves the relationship between Christian Grey ( Jamie Dornan), an intimidating billionaire, and Anastasia Steele (Dakota Johnson), a college literature student. As part of the relationship, Christian Grey insists that Ana sign a contract that outlines the guidelines of a BDSM relationship, something that Ana is not sure she’s comfortable doing.

The movie has some reasonably decent cinematography, at least. It looks like a movie. The film also uses colors in an interesting manner, with grey definitely being utilized as a motif. None of the actors give particularly bad performances either. I guess as far as positive notes go, that’s about all I have. It’s noticeable that there was minimal effort put into the production of the film though. It doesn’t pay off all that much, but it’s refreshing to know that there was at least some sweat put into making this cash cow.

50 Shades of Grey’s biggest problem as a movie derives from too many different voices adjusting the film’s focus.

Trying to get their say, we have the film studio, the producers, the director, the author, and the MPAA. As a result, we have a film split into three parts: One portion of the film is boring, one portion of the film is steamy, and one portion of the film is just plain creepy.

Depending on the age of the report, the number of minutes of sex scenes in 50 Shades of Grey has vastly dif-

T h e s t o r y of the film fol-

fered. In early reports, 20 of the film’s 100 minutes were to be devoted to sex.

Then, that number was lowered to 15.

In the final cutting of the film, the full run-time has been pushed up 2 hours, but the length of the sex scenes have been reduced to 9 minutes. I can only imagine that these changes occurred because of the MPAA’s insistence. In order to make as much money as possible, the film needed to have an R-rating. However, as the MPAA is afraid of sex, there can only be a limited number of sex scenes while avoiding an NC-17 rating. As the original book falls under the category of ‘erotic fiction’, there is around 110 minutes of filler in this film. And nothing happens in that time. The same plot points and character struggles are repeated over and over again. This movie would have greatly benefitted from about 20-30 minutes being cut. This movie would have also greatly benefitted from a new script. And new source material.

9 minutes is still a lot of sex for a movie though. To

portion of the story also takes place above ground, where live action and animation merge. Antonio Banderas plays a pirate named Burger-Beard who obtains a magical book that can alter reality.

This movie is fun the entire way through. The animation is colorful and full of life, and the mixed live-action/animation sequences are handled wonderfully. The film is a kids movie, and it definitely manages and maintains it’s frenetic energy the entire way through, which is pretty impressive given that the movie is eight times the length of a normal episode. There is also a level of surrealistic absurdism to the movie that makes it entertaining to adults as well.

Even though this movie does recapture the essence of Spongebob, I would still argue that the original film is still superior. The original movie explored complex themes and felt like it told a story that couldn’t have been told as effectively on TV. The themes explored in this film feel muted in comparison (teamwork is the only one that really stands out), and the various extreme shifts in the focus of the story make the movie feel like a bunch of extended TV episodes combined together. This is still a great kids film, though. 7/10. put things into perspective, Steve McQueen’s NC-17 drama Shame (2011) had only 5 and a half (that movie had Michael Fassbender go full-frontal in the opening scene though). This movie definitely pushes the barriers between NC-17 and R. However, given that the film’s source material is porn, the sex scenes don’t serve any greater purpose, and end up feeling somewhat exploitative.

This movie also demonizes BDSM relationships. The film heavily implies throughout that those who participate in BDSM relationships have had sexual or other traumas occur to them as children.

Christian Grey isn’t romantic or sexy, he’s abusive. He regularly makes Anastasia engage in acts that she is not comfortable with; most of the time Christian simply manipulates Ana into doing things under the pretense that she’ll ‘enjoy it’. He is unwilling to compromise for the sake of the relationship, saying that the contract is the only way that they can work.

There is no aftercare in their relationship either. This isn’t BDSM, this is abuse. But the film doesn’t seem to have awareness of this fact, as it paints Christian Grey as a tormented man of chivalry. Money talks, I guess.

At the end of the day, this movie doesn’t do anything that hasn’t been done better by other films. Turning a pornographic novel into an R-rated film just doesn’t work. I thought that the film was interesting, but not in the way that the filmmakers wanted me to find it interesting. Again, 50 Shades of Grey is pure hype. Everyone kind of recognizes this, too. Most of the ticket sales and excitement around this film seems to come out of curiosity towards it. I won’t see it for that reason though. It’s not really worth it. 3/10.

The Wachowskis are ambitious filmmakers. From the seemingly ubiquitous Matrix trilogy to 2012’s Cloud Atlas, none of their films can really be described as ‘safe’ or ‘simple’. Even with their misfires, the Wachowskis invest fully in their projects. Jupiter Ascending is one of such misfires, but the movie doesn’t apologize for its inadequacies. Its lack of self-awareness is made so much more attractive when met with its complete passion.

The story of Jupiter Ascending follows that of Jupiter Jones (Mila Kunis), a housemaid transformed out of her average life when aliens attempt to murder her. After being rescued by Caine Wise (Channing Tatum), a wolfman and ex-military hunter, Jupiter discovers that she is of genetic royalty. Traveling between worlds, she must deal with mortality while also struggling to stop various villainous forces in her way.

This movie manages to do something amazing. It manages to make the city of Chicago look boring. Opening the film in a very familiar setting allows for a much more astonishing juxtaposition when the audience is shown a variety of fantastical environments, though in this movie the effect is somewhat muted by several scenes containing alien worlds that interrupt the Chicago sequence early on in the film. Since all of the worlds showcased in the film are so unfamiliar, the locations tend to blend together, despite all being so unique.

Nonetheless, the different environments are fascinating to look at, even if they add ambiguity to the movie’s continuity. That also seems to be a general theme with this film.

There is lots of exciting action and the colors are enjoyable to look at, but there tends to be a lack of emotional weight.

Throughout the film there are various interesting concepts introduced. And I mean throughout. Well into the third act of the film, new ideas are still being brought forward. Most of these concepts aren’t really utilized in the film

JUPITER ASCENDING

after they are mentioned; they are just kind of created and then ignored. The Wachowskis appear as if they thought up a bunch of really cool ideas for the film, but were too excited with other light bulbs to figure out how to reincorporate the original ones. The result is a screenplay that appears to jump all over the place without a serious center of focus.

Steadfast to many other films in the genre, the actors in Jupiter Ascending tend to blend into the scenery. They serve their purpose, but seem artificially created, as if they were just a visual effect. None of the performances, and it’s tenuous to call them that, are memorable, but they don’t hinder the movie either. With one exception. Eddie Redmayne (Redlionmane, Redmayballine, Readmaine, there’s just so many options) gives one of the most hysterically awkward interpretations I’ve seen in a while. He delivers his lines with a combination of mumbling and screaming (90% mumbling, followed by an abrupt 10% screaming) and no in between. It’s hard to imag-

Kingsman: The Secret Service Following his 2010 deconstruction of the superhero genre, Kick-Ass, Matthew Vaughn directs this analysis of James Bond-style spy films. Kingsman: The Secret Service is based off of a comic book, similar to Kick-Ass, and both books share Mark Millar as a co-writer. The story of this film involves an exclusive group of spies who call themselves 'Kingsman'. When one of the 'Kingsman' is killed while on-duty, Harry Hart (Colin Firth) recruits a promising street kid nicknamed Eggsy (Taron Egerton) to participate in a hyper-intense training program to fill the open spot. While this is going on, tech genius Richard Valentine (Samuel L. Jackson) harvests a plot to indirectly commit mass genocide.

The great thing about this movie is that it takes certain preconceptions about how a scene is supposed to go and it turns these expectations on their heads. A lot of the humor of the film is derived from the movie simply acknowledging certain clichés of the spy genre and choosing to avoid them. While these meta comments aren't exactly subtle, the film is nonetheless self-aware. The jokes are often broad and occasionally too juvenile, but these flops are met with numerous successes coming from the movie's tendency towards the unanticipated and the extreme.

About midway into the film, Hart comments to Valentine that he 'always felt that the old Bond films were as good as their villain'.

The movie seems to take this into account, as Samuel L. Jackson's character is one of the most interesting characters in the film. Talking with a lisp and turning his charm level up to 11, Jackson chews up the scenery with the help of Sofia Boutella, who plays a paraplegic assassin/assistant named Gazelle. The training program sequences are entertaining, but they generally feel a bit like filler to delay the reveal of Valentine's master plan. Colin Firth is charismatic as a master spy and mentor to Eggsy,

and Taron Egerton shows a lot of promise holding the film together. The supporting cast, including Michael Caine, Jack Davenport, and Mark Hamill, adequately fill in the remaining intentionally simplistic roles.

Utilizing both descriptors in the term 'action-comedy', the action scenes in the film are all very well put together. One in particular, taking place in a church, is worth the price of admission on its own. Similar to the comedy presented, the violence in this film tends to the extreme. Unfortunately, the violence seems to be done without justification. That said, it’s always refreshing to see a movie that doesn’t censor itself in attempt to fit into a PG-13 rating.

The biggest problem that I have with this film is that it's not really saying anything. It dissects the spy genre and comments on some of the common tropes, but it doesn’t really give anything more than a basic acknowledgment of the genre. Scream (1996) was a great movie if you were a fan of the slasher movies of the time, but as of present day it comes across as a little dated. Cabin in the Woods (2012) seriously analyzed a genre of horror while commenting on what made it great and what limited it. Even though the ‘cabin-in-thewoods’ horror cycle had passed by the time the film was released, Cabin in the Woods still felt relevant and worked whether or not you had any prior knowledge of the genre that the film was talking about. Kingsman is more akin to Scream than it is to Cabin in the Woods. With Kingsman, the minimal commentary provided is already so embedded in our culture that the film’s shelf life is probably pretty limited. That said, the movie is incredibly fun to watch from start to finish. If nothing else, the film is worth a serious viewing simply to marvel at the insanity that it presents. 7/10.

ine how the character was decided upon and approved. Redmayne is a fantastic actor, and while total commitment to his characters has lead to some great performances, without proper guidance it is easy for them to come off as dumb. Mila Kunis’s Jupiter Jones is very much used as a lense for the audience to experience the new worlds, so consequently there is not much dimension to her character. However, as time goes on, Jupiter breaks from her initial development as a prop, and makes decisions for herself independently, which is refreshing for a movie like this.

It probably seems as though I’m defending this film. I guess I am, to some extent. I like ambitious films. The Wachowskis make ambitious films. I like the Wachowskis. When there’s a lot of energy and fervor behind a movie, I tend to forgive it of some of its more serious problems. Jupiter Ascending is really stupid. Logic does not work in this film’s favor. Yet, I wasn’t seriously bothered by this. I recognize a lot of the movie’s faults, but I couldn’t bring myself to hate it. However, I have a feeling that a lot of you will.

Given Hollywood’s increasing desire to tap into foreign markets with big, special-effects driven blockbusters, it would seem as though Jupiter Ascending was created so international audiences could marvel at exciting visuals. However, the film is far too exposition-based for this to be a completely valid argument. While only a small percentage of the movie’s gross is coming from the domestic box office, these numbers are about average with the Wachowskis track record; their films are just generally received slightly better overseas (Nearly 80% of Cloud Atlas’s revenues came from foreign audiences, partially explained by the fact that a majority of the film was funded by foreign investors). Given the large production budget for Jupiter Ascending and the apparent lack of financial incentive, the question is begged: Why did this movie come into existence? Because the Wachowskis wanted to make it. And that’s what makes them so endearing as filmmakers. 5/10.

The Trojan Tribune {February 27, 2015}

Why you should be a feminist The Oscars this year was packed with c on t ro ve r s y - most notably Patricia A r q u e t t e ’s acceptance

By TIFFANY HAAS speech for GUEST WRITER her win as best supporting actress. After the standard round of thanks to her family, friends, coworkers, and production crew, Arquette took her moment in the spotlight to pitch feminism. A woman, tired of mistreatment and discrimination, stood in front of millions and asked for support for equal pay and equal treatment for herself and her female colleagues. How dare she?!

No, male-dominated and patriarchal society, how dare you. Start the “#NotAllMen” movement, say “chill, it’s just a joke” when you tell us to get back in the kitchen, cat-call or talk with your friends about how “she’s such a slut;” all these “harmless” things all contribute and build up social norms that tell girls that they’re lesser than boys, more incapable, and ultimately doomed to a less successful life.

I’m going to offer a bold suggestion: everyone should be a feminist. The excuses to deny women equality are far and wide-here are a few: MYTH: Feminism is full of crazy, bra-burning, men-haters.

FACT: I mean, that could be true if you look at 1980’s second-wave feminism.

Lesbian separatism anyone? But in reality, feminism is defined by Merriam-Webster’s dictionary as “the theory of economic, political, social equality of the sexes.” If somewhere in that definition you can contrive a “I HATE MEN” stance, go for it and please explain it to me. All that most feminists advocate for is simply equality not one over the other.

MYTH: Men can’t be feminist FACT: Anyone can support equal rights--no matter your race, class, gender, sexuality, or any other social location. The theory of equality doesn’t discriminate.

MYTH: If you get feminism, we get meninism - that’s TRUE equality, you reverse-sexist!

FACT: Sexism, racism, or any “ism” can’t have a reverse meaning. What gives the prejudice power to cause the violence and oppression that make it an “ism” is the power stemming from the oppressive, prejudiced group. For example, the reason why sexism can only apply to discrimination against women is because men hold the social power, giving them the ability to oppress women. That means “meninism” isn’t necessary, since men still hold the economic, political, and social power in society.

MYTH: Ok, but things like sexual assault happen to men too. Feminism doesn’t do anything for them, and actually only makes things worse by empowering women.

FACT: In 2013, the National Crime Victimization Survey reported that 38% of sexual violence was against men. This

is a massive step up from the 5 or 10% in the year before. Why the sudden increase?

Because male victims are feeling progressively more comfortable reporting their crimes. Gender norms tell males that their arousal means they want to get sexually assaulted, and that sexual assault victims are only female - in other words, society stigmatizes male sexual assault victims to the point that they have no desire to report their assailants. Feminism, by advocating for equal rights for the sexes, is a breaking down of those norms, and empowering all victims of sexual assault.

MYTH: My sexist joke isn’t actually sexist - it’s just a joke.

FACT: “Wanna hear a joke?” If it’s funny, sure. “WOMEN’S RIGHTS!” Hilarious. Massive misconception is that your words and jokes don’t carry meaning.

Every time you crack a joke for the purpose of a few extra laughs or that much-needed confidence boost, you’re normalizing the notion that women’s rights and equality in society is laughable. Even if a girl laughs along with you, it’s still not excusable, as she would also be participating in a harmful action that reinforces those norms.

MYTH: Feminism is unnecessary things are good enough.

FACT: lol.

So next time you find yourself in a discussion about feminism, before you write off the cause and proclaim yourself as not a feminist, think about it. Really all you need is a bit of common sense.

Fifty shades of disappointing The erotic film adaptation of “Fifty Shades of Grey” had great box office success the past two

By SONIA NECULESCU weeks, grossS E N I O R S TA F F W R I T E R ing over $100 million thus far. Though the film portrays an abusive and degrading relationship, its appeal is attributed to the protagonists’ entrancing relationship. The success of this film is disturbing, disgusting, and disappointing.

The plot focuses on the relationship between innocent Anastasia “Ana” Steele and the powerful yet twisted Christian Grey. The majority of the film bluntly showcases Steele and Grey’s highly explicit physical interactions influenced by Grey’s obsession with BDSM. I do not have a problem with the incorporation of BDSM in the film. The practice of BDSM can be safe, strengthening, and non-abusive. However, the film shows a relationship of control and power reached through borderline abuse of the female protagonist. It glamorizes brutality and force, thus further normalizing feminine inferiority. The film is not about the relationship nor the sex. It’s about dominance.

The theme of male superiority and female imprisonment, physically and emotionally, is disgusting. People should not support the film and its principles.

Throughout the film, Ana is portrayed as frightened and hesitant about the relationship. Grey repeatedly attempts to influence Ana to conform to his desires by serving her a contract outlining the terms

of their “relationship.” Due to Grey’s toxic yet entrancing persona, Ana agrees to do the relationship his way, despite her discomfort. As the film is about to conclude, Ana still has not signed the imprisoning contract. Grey picks her up and attempts once more to control Ana and sway her thought into agreement of his lifestyle by whipping her repeatedly. She begins crying at this point and eventually leaves in defeat. It’s clear that the “relationship” has no form of consent, while emotionally scarring and physically bruising Ana. Grey even refers to himself as the “dominant” and Ana as the “submissive.” If the male protagonist wasn’t an aesthetically pleasing being with a high disposable income, he would appear to be a creep, and this would be a highly appalling story on the nightly news.

Why are we romanticizing this? Would any of us be happy or even slightly okay with this sort of abuse in our relationships? More importantly, why is the film such a smashing success, and ultimately, why are my peers heading to the theater in flocks to see it? Its success is pushing more people to the theaters as curiosity causes interest, and interest causes hype, yet hype for an unworthy cause is dangerous.

This hype is damaging. It was only this past Saturday, February 21st, when Mohammad Hossain, a male student at University of Chicago, was arrested for raping his classmate when reenacting a scene he saw in “Fifty Shades of Grey.” According to “USA Today, ”Hossain tied the female up, binding her arms and legs, and covered her mouth with a rope as he then proceeded to whip her repeatedly. He then punched her repeatedly and continued to physically abuse her, ignoring her pleading cries for release. Allegedly, he didn’t

find fault in his actions, telling authorities that he was simply inspired by the film.

The film dangerously blurs the lines between rape and consensual sex. We as Americans usually like to pride ourselves on being cultured and humane. So why are we supporting this distasteful piece of cinematography? There are parts of the world where women are bound to abusive relationships founded on minimal consent that we frown upon. Yet, those strong feelings of sympathy seem to somehow disappear when we run to the theaters gawk over Christian Grey.

The majority of those my age who have seen the film have told me that it was absolute garbage. Terrible screenplay, highly graphic, and a waste of $9. They were uncomfortable while watching it. So, why do we continually venture out to see it?

Curiosity. The media is portraying this film as a twisted love story, but nonetheless, a love story, while the male protagonist is glamorized and perceived as appealing. The trailers lead us to believe that this is a story of passion featuring a dark and mysterious hunk. Why wouldn’t we want to see it?

Do not go to the film. It is likely you will be confused, grossed out, and bitter about the emptiness in your wallet. We should not support it because by contributing to the high monetary success of this mediocre film, we are implicitly supporting a degrading culture by association. We continually claim that we are the generation of gender equality and empowerment, and rightfully so! We need to prove it.

Opinion Exchange TROJAN TRIBUNE EDITORIAL STAFF Editor in Chief Hana Kassem News Editor Anna Rodriguez Sports Editor Hayden Farmer Graphic Designer Hannah Weas Advertising Manager Mahdy Michael Advisor David Motes

MISSION STATEMENT To address issues that Wayzata High School is facing; to investigate with courage, persistence and passion; to report the news with accuracy and without bias; to encourage thought, investigate events which incite praise and those which incite criticism; and to make connections between people in this community.

EDITORIAL POLICY Editorial policies and content decisions are made by the student editorial board. The opinions expressed in the editorials, columns, and opinion pieces are those of the Trojan Tribune staff and are not necessarily the opinions of the advisor, administration, students, faculty, or District 284.

The Trojan Tribune follows guidelines of the Associated Press Stylebook and is a member of the National Scholastic Press Association.

ADVERTISING We accept ads that provides goods and services for the age group this publication serves, as long as they conform to the school and district regulations.

Inquire for an ad sheet.

The Trojan Tribune works jointly with the advanced television production class to produce Wayzata NewsBreak. Comments concerning NewsBreak may be sent to the address below.

This publication is a limited open forum within the community of Wayzata High School. The newspaper is the product of Journalism students and others and is not the curricular work of a single class.

Opinions, discussion, and input are always welcomed and encouraged. Comments, questions, thoughts, and ideas may be addressed to: The Trojan Tribune 4955 Peony Lane Plymouth, MN 55446 david.motes@wayzata.k12.mn.us

THE TROJAN TRIBUNE

SPORTS 11

SWOOPING

AND HOOPING WITH

drew carter

By Drew Carter S E N I O R S TA F F W R I T E R

Swooping and Hooping with Drew Welcome to Swooping and Hooping.

Thank you for moseying over to my blue box, where I will now be writing about the National Basketball Association (NBA), my favorite association, every issue. If you loyally read “Drew’s Picks,” thank you, and I’m glad you liked them. If you didn’t, I suggest you track down some old issues of the Trojan Tribune, because they were pretty great.

I hope you enjoy Swooping and Hooping.

First on the queue, a few thoughts about a couple of young Timberwolves strutting their stuff in front of a national audience.

All-Star Weekend breeds hope NBA fans are saying Zach LaVine revitalized the Dunk Contest. I say he did more than that. He revitalized a franchise.

Okay, that might be a bit of a stretch. Four meaningless slams by a guy who has been the worst point guard in the league this season, according to ESPN’s Real Plus Minus, don’t mean a thing in the big picture.

But with his acrobatics on Saturday night, LaVine flashed the tantalizing potential that Wolves fans have understood since the day he was drafted, announcing his arrival to the NBA scene with rim-rattling authority.

The jams were refreshingly simple.

LaVine effortlessly passed the ball between hands, whether it was through-the-legs or behind-the-back, as he ascended to the rim.

He threw down smooth dunk after smooth dunk, each finish cleaner than the last.

LaVine’s presentation was also stellar - he entered the arena accompanied by the Quad City DJs, the group behind the title song in classic basketball movie Space Jam, wearing a Michael Jordan “Tune Squad” jersey from the film, for his first act. Expectations for LaVine were high after he wowed fans with incredible throwdowns in the preseason and practice, and the combo guard soared (literally) past what even the most wishful of NBA fans could have hoped for.

If LaVine, 19 years young, can even come within arm’s reach of his basketball ceiling, the Wolves will have gotten a steal with the 13th pick of the 2014 NBA Draft. The UCLA product is raw, as evidenced by his putrid metrics, but no one will question his athletic prowess after his performance in All-Star Saturday’s marquee event.

Though far fewer people are buzzing about it, Andrew Wiggins’s showing the previous night may have been more auspicious than LaVine’s. Wiggins, also still a teenager, won MVP of the Rising Stars Challenge, which features the top first- and second-year players from across the league. His 22 points (tied for the game-high with - guess who?

- Zach LaVine) included several impressive dunks, including a casual 360 and an alley-oop from half court, which he finished while at eye-level with the rim. LaVine also displayed his dunking chops in the game, looking very relaxed as he previewed what he had in store for Saturday. The Wolves duo’s high-flying exhibition prompted Sportscenter to lead off its highlights of the game with a graphic that read: “Bounce Brothers.” Wolves fans, if that doesn’t make you giddy, I don’t know what will.

Wiggins was clearly the best player on the court Friday, showing America what Minnesotans have known for a while: the Canadian is a star in the making. Wiggins has been blossoming lately; after an inconsistent first few months, the rookie averaged 19.8 points per game on 47 percent shooting in January, beginning to live up to the sky-high hype that has surrounded him since high school. In hindsight, the Wolves appear to have made out like bandits in their offseason trade with the Cavaliers. Notably absent from the All-Star festivities? Kevin Love.

As I wrote this column, it was hard to refrain from crying tears of joy. My favorite team, which hasn’t made the playoffs in over a decade, has finally offered its supporters a reason to believe. Thank you, Wiggins and LaVine. Please don’t leave us.

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 27, 2015

New football State Tournament resembles March Madness The Minnesota Football State Tournament has been reconstructed for the 2015 season and will bring a new element of competiveness to the already exciting 6A class.

The boys of fall will be showcased in a tournament that is similar to March Madness. Four sections will seed teams 1-8. Previously the first round winners would play a team from another section in a crossover game. In the new format these crossover games will be eliminated.

After two rounds of playoffs the eight teams remaining will be re-seeded to maintain the competitive edge and to reward the underdogs who get hot in the playoffs.

By HAYDEN FARMER SPORTS EDITOR

“With the new changes in the upcoming season, I think it will add to momentum produced by low-seeded teams and will produce exciting games,” said future captain (11) Foster Conzet.

The Trojans success rate has steadily declined over the past four years, finishing 3-7 last year capping off a sour streak for the blue and gold. “I think we have all the tools to make the 2015 season a successful one. With great team chemistry and dedicated coaches, the sky is the limit,” said Conzet.

A new state tournament and frigid temperatures in the TCF stadium will be essential parts of an unpredictable 2015 state tournament.

Photo by Shannon Bedard

Foster Conzet (11) catches his breath at the Trojans’ first playoff game against the Minnetonka Skippers.

Senior skier takes her talent across the country and further

Nicole Schneider to continue to progress as a skier and to prog- come a big part of her life.

(12) has been cross ress academically,” said Schneider.

Travelling to Sweden to ski is one of her country skiing al“I get to travel all over the nation, and out- most notable accomplishments. “It was a great most her whole side of the nation,” said Schneider. It comes as experience and I’m so thankful I had the oplife. She began skiing at the age of 4 and has a perk to all the hard work that is put in. portunity,” Schneider said. continued throughout the “It’s very cool to get out Photo courtesy by Kraig A Lungstrom years. Schneider’s dad has and see different parts of been skiing for many years the world.” said Schneider. as well and was the one that Skiing has given her the got her interested in the opportunity to get out and sport. explore.

Schneider has put in hours “A struggle for me was of hard work and dedication managing both skiing and to reach the level that she is school,” Schneider said. currently at now. Schneider She always tries her best said she trains hard daily to stay caught up when she for goals that she sets for misses school, otherwise it herself. can become a nightmare Every day is a new day, according to Schneider. however the training she Teachers have also been does varies day to day in very cooperative and helporder to fine tune her skills. ful. “I’m very fortunate to Some days the team has have teachers that work hard workouts and some with me one on one to help days they have easy ones. me catch up,” Schneider Nicole Schneider (12) racing at T. Wirth track on Febuary 5th.

“The hard ones will have said. many intervals and the easy Next year Schneider is workouts will be a long ski,” Schneider said.

“Within the past four years, I’ve travelled to going to be continuing to ski. She will be atThe team has practice every day and races Montana four times, New Hampshire, Maine, tending Northern Michigan University. “They are usually 1-2 times a week. Throughout Alaska, Wisconsin, Michigan, Vermont, Swe- have a very good ski team, so I know I’ll be the week the team prepares for the races and den, Colorado, and next week California,” working hard next year,” said Schneider. works their hardest to achieve the best. “I hope Schneider said. Traveling with skiing has beBy ASHNAA PATEL SENIOR STAFF WRITER

Boys’ basketball credits their success to off-court chemistry W a y zata has S E N I O R S TA F F W R I T E R exceeded expectations this season after winning only 7 games all of last year. They have knocked off the defending state champions Lakeville North along with last year’s third place team Holy Family due to some late game heroics.

Their conference record may not reflect much at 3-5, but Wayzata basketball has shown that they are ready and capable to battle with any team they face.

The reason for their success was the chemistry that the starting 5 players along with their bench players had created growing up playing together. Wayzata basketball can owe a lot of their success this season to their impeccable team chemistry.

Some of these boys have been playing together since 5th grade. This is the first year that they have been able to fully utilize their bond due to no returning seniors.

Wayzata has been firing on all cylinders and has shown great knowledge and understanding of where everything is on the court.

Johnny Beeninga (11), Jack Sowada

By AUSTIN RUSH

(11), and Brady Galbraith (11) have all been playing Wayzata basketball together since their fifth grade travel ‘A’ team. Junior captain Ty Gelinske joined the trio the very next year in sixth grade.

Ever since then, these four boys have been improving their chemistry on and off the court.

“We have AAU together during the summer and also we will get some guys together and go to Lifetime,” said captain Johnny Beeninga. “We know each other’s tendencies which helps build our chemistry,” added Sowada.

“We owe a lot of our success to solid Photo by Sonia Neculescu

The Trojan boys getting ready for the second half.

The Trojans defeated Park Center 79-53 on Thursday February 26th.

communication on the court as well as maintaining a fast paced offense,” Beeninga added.

“Being close off the court definitely makes it way easier playing with each other,” said Sowada.

The Trojans defeated Park Center 7953 on February 26th and will be heading to the second round of playoffs.

TROJAN ATHLETE OF THEWEEK JUNIOR JOHNNY BEENINGA

Beeninga netted 25 points in the road victory against the Minnetonka Skippers on February 19th.

THE TROJAN TRIBUNE

SPORTS 12

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 27, 2015

Boys’ swim and dive headed to State meet The Wayzata boys’ JUNIOR STAFF WRITER swim and dive team won state last year, but this season has been a different one completely, for a variety of reasons.

“Given the circumstances, we’ve performed really well. We experienced a lot of changes in the roster this season, and many of the JV swimmers from last year have had to step up to varsity this year,” senior captain Gregg Arnold said.

Senior Cort Hanson also commented that the season has not gone very well in terms of winning, but he agrees that the team’s young members are performing up to the level of the more seasoned swimmers.

Their sections preliminary meet was Wednesday, February 25th. The Wayzata boys qualified two of their relays for the section. Hansen is seeded 1st in the 100 butterfly and 2nd in the 100 back, while Arnold is seeded 1st in the 100 and 50 freestyle events.

Divers competed in their section prelims meet on the evening of Thursday,

By MAGGIE FRANKE

February 26th. Even though the team has a dual meet record of one win and

Arnold said.

According to the team’s website,

Gregg Arnold (12) and Zach Kennedy (11) congratualte each other at the Team Section meet on January 17th. The boys took first overall.

five losses, the team does have a very good chance at defending their section championship title.

“We performed well at True Team sections, and we’re confident we can perform the same way at sections,”

all-state Photo courtesy of Scott Kennedy t i m e standards must be achieved during the sectional finals competition. In True Team sections, swimmers and divers automatically compete at the

state meet if the team wins the section.

Each individual must swim or dive his way into the meet. Individuals can also qualify by placing top two in their event, but everyone who makes the cut also qualifies.

“Our biggest goal at sections is to get as many people qualified for state as we can,” Hansen said. The state meet will take place on the evenings of March 5th through March 7th.

Many of the team’s top athletes graduated last year, and many of the seniors and juniors had to step into important leadership roles to be good examples for the younger members on the team. As of last year, the boy’s team experienced another change in leadership when David Plummer became their head coach.

“Since Plummer became the new head coach, the team underwent a lot of changes. The team as a whole has gained a much more structured and thought-out feeling, David has a good mind for planning meets to ensure our win,” Arnold said.

Wayzata Alpine’s steepest slopes still to come

By TONIE SHANNON

SOPHOMORE GUEST WRITER

Wayzata alpine boys and girls look to overcome obstacles and rely on their team chemistry and dedication in order to conquer the slopes this year.

“The guys’ squad seems to have a pretty good chance on getting a team to state,” said Erin Nakagaki (12).

“The best meet of the season was the 4th varsity race when the guys came in 1st place against Eden Prairie with the 4 fastest skiers in the conference, meaning Wayzata has a more stable team,” Nakagaki said.

“A couple of girls are also in the

running,” Nakagaki said. “The girls’ team is just getting by, we’re not doing terrible. We have a lot of fast people and upcoming fast freshmen,” said Nakagaki.

What they need as a team is more focus, Natalie Steine (10) said. “There needs to be more investment in the sport, rather than the social aspect,” said Steine.

“I’m really excited for sections, this is my first year going,” said Steine.

“Varsity races are over, so sections are the biggest thing for us.”

“Currently the guys are doing better, but everyone always has a good time,” said Natalie Steine.

The team is more of a tight knit family rather than a widely spread

ski team said Nakagaki. “The team points are added up per skier to make dynamic is really great,” Nakagaki up the team score,” Nakagaki said. said.

“The bonding time is the highlight of Alpine for me,” Photo courtesy of Sun Sailor Steine said. “We all have to suffer through the blistering cold; we all understand the pain of hitting the gate. We just really get each other,” said Nakagaki.

In meets skiers can place in the top ten based on the fastest times. Starting with 72 points for 1st place, with a finishing time of one minute and going down from there by fives or sixes depending Charlie Hicks flies down the slopes at the Buckhill Invitaon what your time was. Then tional.

Encouraging wrestling season comes to a close

In a Section 6AA Tournament SENIOR STAFF WRITER that went according to plan the higher-seeded team won every match - the boys’ wrestling team fell to Willmar in the semifinals, ending their season.

Willmar, ranked third in the state, completed the season sweep of the Trojans with their tournament victory, after decisively prevailing in December and February meetings.

12 of Willmar’s 14 wrestlers placed in their weight class at the tournament, and their domination culminated in 61-9 thrashing of second-seeded Minnetonka in the final round.

“They have a really great program,” said junior David Couri.

While the Trojans struggled against Willmar, they had a generally successful season, especially considering the team’s youth and first-year coach. Coming into the season, expectations for the boys were fairly low.

“At the beginning of the season, we were expecting to be the seventh seed in the section tournament,” said senior Aaron Cote.

“We ended up beating a bunch of teams that we probably shouldn’t have, and we ended up being the fourth seed [out of 10 teams].”

The team finished with a head-to-head record of 10-10, and earned three top-five finishes at tournaments. Several individuals

By DREW CARTER

on the team had outstanding seasons, including Cote (138 pound weight class) and senior Evan Kluck (160).

After a tough junior season during which he went 10-18, Cote took a huge leap forward this year, compiling a record of 33-9.

Improvement has been a common theme in Cote’s career.

“I was really, really bad as a youth wrestler,” said Cote. “I got higher than third place twice - there are four wrestlers at every tournament.”

Cote says he began to improve in middle school, and when he got to high school, he was one of two freshman to earn a spot on varsity (Kluck was the other).

Cote went .500 in his first two high school seasons. His disappointing junior campaign left him with doubts about his future - he considered quitting when the coaching staff changed in the offseason, but when Eric Swensen was hired to helm the squad, Cote decided to continue wrestling.

“I was pretty happy that I stayed with it.”

Cote credits his massive improvement this year to lots of hard work, more confidence, and guidance from the coaches.

Kluck, meanwhile, racked up 31 wins and only nine losses this season. He was the only Wayzata wrestler to qualify for the individual State Tournament.

Kluck’s improvement this season was not as drastic as Cote’s, but his senior campaign nonetheless represented a huge step in his development as a wrestler.

“Last season was tough because I

had moved up five weight classes, so the style Mumbuwa, who was favored to qualify for of wrestling was different for me,” said Kluck. the State Tournament before suffering a “I felt a lot more comfortable this year as I dislocated shoulder in January. grew into the weight class.

Kluck believes Mumbuwa may have been “I’m a completely different wrestler this able to compete in the Section Tournament, year than I was in 8th grade, when I was at but Swensen did not want to jeopardize the 103 pounds, but I would say my biggest jump freshman’s bright future by bringing him back has been last year to this year, for sure.” to early.

Kluck, like Cote, Photo courtesy of the Sun Sailor was ecstatic when Swensen became the Trojans’ coach. When asked if he had any doubts about the team’s new leadership, Kluck responded, “not at all.”

“I met Swensen last spring and liked him immediately,” said Kluck. “He has an incredible passion for the sport and pushes me continuously to be the best I can be.

It’s definitely paid off for me this season.”

Kluck will attend the University of Minnesota.

Other standout wrestlers from the team included senior Mark Wallerius Cory King (11) pins a Buffalo wrestler at the section 6AAA tournament on and freshman Boyd February 14th.