Horse Volume 3 Issue 1

The TrojanHorse

horsewhs.com

Take A Knee?

C heap Eats!

The Horsoscope is Back!

Student Art

Please My Cheese: 3 Teen Moguls take W il s o n by S t orm

Contents Profile: Ms. Pearson Dear Teenage Boys Wilson Takes a Knee Please My Cheese The Dreamer Next Door

9 13 17 21 27

Features Letter From The Editor Horsoscope Current Events: Fall 2017 Cheap Eats

2 3 6 7

LEGA L Portland Public Schools recognizes the diversity and worth of all individuals and groups and their roles in society. It is the policy of the Portland Public Schools Board of Education that there will be no discrimination or harassment of individuals or groups on the grounds of age, color, creed, disability, marital status, national origin, race, religion, sex or sexual orientation in any educational programs, activities or employment.

LOCAL CIVIL RIGHTS INQUIRIES Brian Chatard, Title VI, IX Coordinator (503) 916-5280 Maude Lamont, 504 Coordinator (503) 916-5280 District Title VI & Title IX Contact: 503-916-3963 ADA Accessibility/District 504 Contact: 503-916-5460 ADA Employment Queries Contact: 503-916-3544

According to Oregon law, student journalists are responsible for determining the content of this publication, except under limited circumstances.

The subject matter, content and views of the news, features and opinion sections in this paper do not reflect the views of Portland Public Schools or Woodrow Wilson High School.

Letter From the Dear Wilson High,

Editor

Hooray! Jump for joy! The magazine is back and better than ever! And we aim to create some new glory days for The Horse. At Wilson this year we’ve experienced some changes as some of our beloved staff have been replaced with some wonderful new faces. Outside of our walls, the world has also been experiencing changes as our country’s elected leaders prove themselves unworthy. Both inside and outside these walls, whether they’ve been calling out the taboo, fighting for justice, or creating something from nothing, Wilson students have proved themselves to be one of a kind. Here at the magazine, we wanted to catch the true essence of what it means to be a Wilson student. We hope every page and every story connects with each and every one of you, and you see yourself reflected within them.

Sincerely, The Trojan Horse

Editor-in-Chief : Ihsaan Mohamed Junior Editor: Helen Fick Layout Editor: Veronica Adams Staff Members: Vivian Monterio, Devyn Yocom , Sarah Pendergraph, Mira Coles, Shandra Back

Check us out at horsewhs.com where you’ll find all these stories and more.

2

Horsoscope Aries (21 March-19 April) The Ram

Cancer! There is nothing or nobody that will be able to ruin

In December Aries, remember to tune into your

your fun. At school and concerning relationships, you know

emotions at the very beginning of this month. Slow down

what you want, so don’t be afraid to take charge and go get

for a minute and really ask yourself; Are you really happy

it. Go into a test or a Winter Formal proposal with confi-

and ready to move into the upcoming new year? This is a

dence! You have so much potentially to gain, so a little loss

month of turning inward and discerning what you really

would be worth the risk. The beginning of the month will

need for yourself. What is it that you really want? Friends

be a very romantic time; whatever you are feeling is right on,

are always there to help, but maybe try to figure this one out

so make sure to go and enjoy it! Your naturally sentimental

independently. On the 8th and 9th work on turning on your

side is sure to come out. Embrace it! Go to Zoolights with

charm to get what you desire. A cute date to Winter Formal

your crush or go ice-skating around the tree at the Lloyd

perhaps? The 16th-18th is your time to take control of your

Center. Whatever you choose to do will make for some great

academics and get those grades you’re working towards! It

memories. Good news is heading your way on the 6th and

will be tough, but very worth those marvelous letters lined

7th, but be ready to open up about some issues that have

up on your semester transcript. Try to put past drama with

been on your mind lately, otherwise situations could spiral

friends or family aside on New Year’s Eve; it won’t help any-

wildly out of control. Persevere when encountering setbacks

thing to dig up a past argument no matter how much you

with friends on the 14th and 15th. Cancer’s are deeply

crave that drama. Get all dressed up and have confidence

intuitive. Use this to your advantage in mending the broken

coming into a brand new year!

ties, so that you when the 23rd and 24th roll around you can let loose and party a little with friends. You deserve a break!

Gemini (21 May-21 June) The Twins

Finally, don’t hold anything back on the 31st and make sure

If things aren’t going exactly your way at the beginning

that special person knows how you feel. Even if they don’t

of the month, don’t get moody, Gemini! People close to you

reciprocate the feeling, at least you’ll go into the new year

might be feeling that you are acting a little bit selfish lately.

knowing the truth. Overall, just make sure to keep an open

Have some empathy for others this season and make time

mind and an open heart this holiday season and act as an

for your friend’s needs as well. Even though it is still very

anchor for the ones you love.

important to take some quality time for yourself, try going with the flow of things. You will find a huge burst of energy

Leo (24 July- 23 Aug) The Lion

on the 6th and 7th. These two days will also lead to some

With Winter Formal coming up, Leo, show that special

miscommunication with a romantic interest at school, so be

someone how you’re feeling in the beginning of this month.

careful about how you choose to channel this newfound en-

Go big! You love being in the limelight, so don’t be afraid

ergy. Your naturally expressive personality can either help or

to catch some stares. You may be feeling extra sensitive this

hinder you, so watch how you deal with the situation. Deep

holiday season, so make sure to plan plenty of you time.

thinking on the 16th and 17th will lead to new revelations in

This sensitivity is not necessarily a bad thing, but sometimes

your future. Potential college or summer opportunities could

it can make you a bit emotional. Don’t be afraid to explore

arise; it is entirely your decision which path you choose to

a romantic possibility on the 12th and 13th. Just make sure

follow here. Thankfully, all of the issues of this year seem to

to keep your ego in check; no one likes a big-headed date.

dissipate in this final month allowing you to enter the new

Don’t cling to this person too tight on the 16th and 17th. In-

year feeling refreshed.

stead, try to decipher and distinguish where this neediness is coming from. Also, even if there’s something you REALLY

Cancer (22 June- 23 July) The Crab

want, the timing is not right to be asking for any favors from

The start of this month is looking very strong for you,

and they will be returned in due time. After all, this holiday

family or friends on the 18th. Be the one giving the favors,

is meant more for giving than receiving. New Year’s Eve

enjoy a fun winter break in their company. Be kind to every-

should be lots of fun for you, Leo, but be careful not to go

one on the 24th and 25th; a rude comment could land you

overboard. Get a friend to look out for you during the night

in a lot of trouble. Stay out of the line of gossip as well. If

and the 31st will go splendidly!

you hear something, there is no need to contribute to it. This restraint will serve you well. Go have fun on the 31st but be

Libra (23 Sept-22 Oct) The Scales

careful with how you handle situations on New Years Eve. A

You can be both “naughty” and “nice” this month Libra,

tempting risk could land you in a lot of trouble.

just be careful to choose your timing wisely. The beginning of this month might be a bit of a rocky start for you. Plans could fall through, relationships might get a little screwy, or

Taurus (20 April-20 May) The Bull Get ready Taurus- this December, you have a lot of tough

your grades might go through a rough patch, but this will

decisions to make. The start of the month is especially

help with your flexibility for the future. Don’t get frustrated

important, and the more clear and direct you are with your

or jump to any rash conclusions. This chaos will be short-

communication, the easier things will be for you! With your

lived. Luckily, within a few days, you should be feeling very

steady nature, your intuition is always your best friend, and

successful and adventurous, so get out of your comfys and

your best weapon. Do not, under any circumstances, ignore

go do something fun as a reward for your achievements.

your gut. This is going to be an exciting time for you, but

Libra’s have a desire to make everyone around them happy.

make sure to be cautious with anyone new you choose to

Don’t forget to pay some attention to whatever it is that

trust. Although the 6th and 7th bring a flirty fun, the 10th

makes you feel content. If you find yourself stressed right

and 11th could mark the beginning of real commitments.

before Winter Break, take a quick break just for you. Sit

Make sure you stay mature on the first weekend of break,

down with your favorite show and grab that guilty snack

the 15th, 16th, and 17th, no matter how hyper everyone

you’ve been saving for a special occasion. The most intimate

else gets. And understand that emotional risks are okay- The

time of the month for you will be the 23rd and 24th, but

Bull is famous for listening to it’s non-logical self. Take that

make sure not to overindulge. If you rush into things too

leap of faith, and start preparing for that New Year's kiss!

quickly, you could scare someone off. You don’t want to come back to school with regrets. Wrap up the year with a spontaneous night on the 31st.

Sagittarius (23 Nov- 20 Dec) The Centaur

Virgo (24 Aug- 22 Sept) The Virgin This month stresses organization for you, Virgo. Make those holiday plans this weekend, for the better organized you get early on, the more you’ll be able to enjoy the holidays. But

Happy Birthday Sagittarius! This is a big month for you.

you don’t want to forget about holiday romances because of

Make sure to keep everything in balance, and don’t over-

your dedication to the season, so open your eyes. Pack a little

whelm yourself. You will find yourself questioning things at

extra chapstick, just in case you need those lips to be super

the beginning of this month. See where these answers lead

supple, especially on the 8th and 9th, and watch out for

you. Think long and hard about what you need to change

stray mistletoe. Be patient with your family over the holi-

in the New Year. It may be hard to embrace these adjust-

days, not everyone can be as grounded as you are. The 24th

ments, but whatever decision you make is the right one for

and 25th could prove to be especially stressful, but they don’t

you. Don’t be afraid to put everything, and everyone, to the

have to be. The 28th and 29th bring lots of fun, so learn

test. The aftermath of some of these tough decisions may

to let loose and just enjoy it. This holiday season is also the

leave you feeling moody and slow on the 10th and 11th,

time to break out of your shell. As much as you hate risks,

but it won’t last long. The next two days, you will be feeling

let it all hang out New Year’s Eve! You won’t regret it.

happy and renewed. These days are great for productivity at school. The 19th and 20th are a time to reflect on this year and communicate your thoughts to your friends. They could

Scorpio (23 Oct-22 Nov) The Scorpion December is an energizing time for you, Scorpio, and it’s

be on the same page as you or on a completely different

pulling you in all different directions. Explore that someone

wavelength. Make sure to sort out everything so that you can

or something that’s been catching your eye recently, because

4

a new fascination could lead to an unprecedented adven-

And even though you could hear some rumors near Christ-

ture, especially the 10th and 11th, when you’re in your most

mas time, try and stay away from that high school drama.

irresistible mood. This could be the perfect time to ask that

You’ll still be expected to lead your friends, but remember

special interest to Winter Formal! Even though you try to

you can rely on them too.

hide it, your “Scrooge” nature could get in the way early in the month. Get over yourself, and get into the holiday spirit!

Pisces (20 Feb-20 March) The Fish

Join in with fun activities like Secret Santa, or help with the

Lucky for you Pisces, your December starts off just the way

party planning. Your natural charm and attraction could

you like it: Lots of fun and heaps of romance. The first

make this the best holiday season yet, but only if you use it

weekend of this holiday season brings lots of flirtatious fun

to your advantage. Since this month is so indecisive for you,

and boundless creativity, so make the most of it. But the 4th

it’s important to listen to others’ advice, even though you

and 5th could bring a swirl of school related drama, so even

think you’re better than that. Plan something low-key for

though you might want to dive right into it, it’s best to take

New Years, but rely on that strong willed nature to commit

a step back. Remember to be fair and flexible, even though

to new resolutions.

it might not come easy. The 10th and 11th are great days for self reflection as well; If someone is dragging you down,

Capricorn (22 Dec-20 Jan) The Goat

cut them off! Treasure your friends and family especially

This holiday season will be a breeze for you, Capricorn.

towards the end of the holiday season. They know that with

Your hard working nature puts you ahead of the holiday

you, even a little affection can show you care. When it comes

madness which might seem silly to you, but that doesn’t

to presents, remember that a sentimental gift can mean

mean you can’t enjoy it. At the beginning of the month it’s

much more than an expensive one- don’t feel the need to

important to start moving again. You’ve been feeling a little

always flex your money, or you could lose it all.

lazy and listless, but now it’s time to get exercising. You’ll welcome the routine in the long run, and it’ll help you keep things in perspective, especially on the 4th and 5th when some school-related troubles could arise. This is a great month for you romantically as well, but it’s time to figure out what you want. Envision your ideal relationship with that special someone on the 12th, and by the 14th and 15th this could become a reality! Spend some time to yourself this holiday season, specifically the 23rd and 24th, and take December 31 nice and easy into the new year. A low-key celebration is going to be much more enjoyable for you anyways, and there’s no reason to over extend yourself.

Aquarius (21 Jan-19 Feb) The Water Bearer Aquarius, this month is all about action for you. It’s time to stop thinking, and start doing! Start organizing your feelings right away, and ask yourself: What are you missing? The holiday season is a great time to start looking at jobs, and the cold weather invites someone warm as well… maybe even a Winter Formal date? Remember, things can always change as time goes on. The beginning of the month shows that you’re the essential ingredient in every holiday party.

All your romantic questions will be clarified the 8th and 9th, but the 16th and 17th are when you most radiate possibility.

Current Events Fall 2 0 1 7 The world outside our Wilson walls has been full of significant events. Here at the magazine, we decided to round up some of the most important news of fall 2017.

The Gulf Coast was hit with two major hurricanes and power lines are still down in the island of Puerto Rico. Mexico City also experienced a 7.1 magnitude earthquake which devastated the city. The islands are still recovering from the hurricanes, and Mexico City is still recovering from the earthquakes.

Since the holiday season is about giving, you can donate to the recovery of these catastrophic events at Unicef USA. NFL players continued to take a knee in response to the overwhelming police brutality in the African American community. Our president took these attacks a little too personally and ended up tweeting about it, taking some unnecessary digs at the players. Here at Wilson, our own women’s soccer team decided to show solidarity by also taking a knee. Thankfully, Mr.Trump did not tweet about them.

Hillary Clinton released her book called “What Happened.� It was a memoir about how she lost the 2016 election. Overall the book received mixed reviews.

Hollywood imploded with sexual abuse allegations against big-shot producer, Harvey Weinstein and actor Kevin Spacey among many others. Harvey Weinstein himself has about sixty allegations against him mostly from women in Hollywood. Kevin Spacey has many allegations against him mostly from men and boys that he has worked with. These allegations left us at the magazine thinking about rape culture, prompting us (mainly Helen) to write a list advising teenage boys on how to behave around women.

The U.S. also reeled from back to back mass shootings, first at the Harvest Music Festival in Las Vegas, NV in October followed by a church shooting in Sutherland Springs, TX in November.

6

Cheap

Eats

by Shandra Back

Boxer Ramen Eating out as a teenager is a struggle. From expensive restaurants to transportation, finding affordable and good places to eat is hard. Luckily, not all of Portland is filled with costly, small portioned eateries. Here is one place in Portland with good cheap eats.

Boxer Ramen is a quaint little ramen restaurant located on Alberta Street. The aesthetic of the cozy space is cheery and colorful with wacky murals painted up on the walls. It is the perfect place to settle down and catch up with family or friends. With only a few tables in the entire restaurant, the setting makes for a very quiet, intimate meal.

It’s small but detailed menu makes the decision for what to eat extremely simple.

The portions are quite large, so sharing with another person is possible. This is no powder-packet Top Ramen, the fresh noodles are soaked in delicious broths of pork along with egg and various vegetables. The warm, steaming stock will warm your stomach on a chilly day and soothe the inevitable sore throats that winter brings.

After eating once at this inexpensive, flavorful restaurant, you’ll find yourself craving these ramen bowls forever.

2032 NE Alberta St. § Open noon to 9 pm all week

Art by Emily Thomas

8

Ms. Pearson: A Life in Art Painting By Marie Pearson

by Vivian Monterio

10

M

arie Pearson, an art teacher at Wilson High

birdwatching. It has multiple panels which depict the

School, couldn’t quite believe it when her

rolling hills of the Gorge and an adventure to find the

work was chosen to be exhibited at the Ma-

northern flicker. It’s not a public statement like “The

ryhill Museum of Art. “It was a really special moment,” says

Neighborhood Watchman”, but rather a more inti-

Pearson, who had never had her work shown at a museum

mate piece.

before. “It’s like the first of anything.” She compares her

Ms. Pearson has been teaching at Wilson for seven

elation on discovering her art being selected with taking her

years. She teaches Draw-Paint-Print, Advanced Art,

first steps, or finally learning how to read. It’s an accom-

Advanced Illustration, and AP Art. She has been mak-

plishment she will not soon forget.

ing art her entire life, but really got into it after a por-

The two pieces, titled “Finding the Northern

trait class she took in 2nd grade. Growing up in South

Flicker” and “The Neighborhood Watchman” may be

Dakota, there was an emphasis on a well rounded ed-

found in the “Teachers As Artists” exhibition, which

ucation, which meant that Pearson was able to take art

was specifically created to showcase teacher talent. Walking through the room, you are met with a colorful array of art by teachers from all over the state.

“The Neighborhood Watchman” depicts the figure of Bigfoot admiring a view of Portland from the Broadway bridge. It’s a sight Pearson passes by every day on her

As a teacher, Ms. Pearson hopes to inspire kids to find their own voice, and enjoy the creative process.

bike ride to school. She made sure to include trees and green spaces because that is something unique about

all throughout elementary school.

She got her Bachelors of Fine Arts degree in Art and Art History from the University of Minnesota and a Masters of Arts in Teaching degree from Lewis and Clark College.

You may have seen her art around- It’s been displayed at the Multnomah Arts Center, Beaverton City Hall, Hoffman Gallery, Cathe-

dral Coffee, and many other local places.

Ms. Pearson’s advice to aspiring artists is to “show

our city that she wanted to emphasize. “There is so

your work everywhere you can. The more exposure

much construction happening that our community is

the better.”

looking less and less green.” The bigfoot was inspired

As a teacher, Ms. Pearson hopes to inspire kids to

by one of Pearson’s elderly neighbors. “He sits out on

find their own voice, and enjoy the creative process. “I

his front porch every day and watches the street; he

learn as much- probably more- from students as they

looks out for the neighborhood.” She imagined that

learn from me!” As an artist, Pearson will continue to

Bigfoot would do the same for the city of Portland by

develop her work and try new things. Making art, she

watching over the nature that is so important to us.

says, is a process of discovery. It helps us to learn more

Pearson’s second piece, “Finding the Northern Flicker”, was inspired by her partner, who does a lot of

about ourselves and our purpose in the world.

Ms.Pearson and her paintings

12

Dear Teenage Boys

By Helen Fick

Drawing by Trent Nesbitt

T

he teenage years. So angsty and terrible that no one can stop talking about it. Between puberty and high school, teens have a lot to deal with. Adding gender stereotypes into the mix can add a ton more stress on top of it all. After the rampant sexual assault cases that have recently been coming to light with the likes of Harvey Weinstein, Kevin Spacey, Ben Affleck,

Brett Ratner, Terry Richardson, Bill O'Reilly and many, many more, we decided that the early signs of sexism was something important to talk about. So, one day in October I stood in front of the Intro to Journalism class and discussed things teenage girls wished they could say to teenage boys. We came up with quite the list, covering a variety of topics. These are the most important.

Dear Teenage Boys, You can compliment your fellow guys!

Making a comment about how great your pal’s shirt looks is not gay. No one actually cares about that. Let your admiration be known, just like you would for any girl.

It’s okay to say no!

As a society we tend to have this thought that boys always want sex, and this definitely is not true. Don’t be afraid to say no to things you don’t want to do, whether they be emotional or sexual.

Don’t cat call!

Girls don’t take this as a compliment; it’s creepy. How would you feel if walking around the streets people made remarks about every part of you in a gross sexual way. There is a 0% chance it will ever work. Leave her alone.

Women owe you nothing.

Even if you buy her something, even when you have her over, even when you give her rides, don’t expect anything. Plus, what does it say about you if everything nice you do is paired with the expectation of a sexual return in mind.

Just because a girl is mad doesn’t mean she’s on her period.

And even if she is, what she’s feeling is valid. Women are allowed to feel emotions without being dismissed.

Saying the C word makes a lot of people, especially women, uncomfortable.

I love the word probably 10x more than you do, but remember that in itself it’s a very aggressive word. You might not mean it in a bad way, but know your audience and always be polite.

Stop commenting on a woman's underwear.

We get it, she’s wearing a bra. No need to point out that bra strap buddy.

14

Don’t be ashamed of your sex life.

It’s fine to be a virgin, or not to be a virgin, or to have a lot of sex, or not a lot of sex. Just like for girls, it doesn’t matter.

If you see a woman being interrupted, point it out.

Though this might not happen to you, it happens to a lot of women. Just say ‘Excuse me, she was speaking,’ or, ‘She has something to say.’ Don’t be passive.

On that topic, don’t appropriate a woman’s work.

Similar to letting a woman talk, woman’s ideas are often ignored by men, stolen, and then retold as their own. Start giving credit where it’s due.

You have the power to stop sexual assault.

If you see something fishy going on, stop it. If not, you are an enabler, plain and simple. Call it out and end it.

Girls don’t want to hear your opinion on their looks.

Shocking as it is, she doesn’t care that you think her foundation is a little much or that blue eyeshadow isn’t cute. Girls don’t wake up with your picture on their wall and keep you in mind while they get ready. We aren’t painting our eyes red and adding a little hammer and sickle to our cheeks to please you. We’re doing it to worship Karl Marx and the wonder that is communism.

By the way, makeup is cool.

If you want to cover up a spot just put concealer on it. It’s not even noticeable unless you’re really up close. If you want to wear makeup, just do it. You don’t have to, but don’t be afraid to.

Beauty products in general are gender neutral.

Put whatever you want in your hair; wear face masks to calm down. You can still take care of yourself if you’re a guy.

Stop fetishizing women of color.

It’s creepy when you call a brown girl ‘chocolate’ or comment about how you find her ‘exotic’. They’re human beings not food.

Opinionated women aren’t crazy.

Just because she thinks Hillary should’ve won doesn’t mean she’s going to knife you.

Don’t be afraid to say you’re wrong or to change your opinion.

Being wrong is not a terrible thing. It means you’ve listened to reason and reconsidered. There is no shame admitting it.

Change your opinions if you feel the other one fits better.

It’s okay to reach out for emotional support!

Though being able to handle emotions is an important skill, sometimes they can get to be too much. Just keep in mind that you have a support system. You can be tough while keeping yourself mentally healthy.

Don’t insult girls you don’t know.

This should be obvious, but if I had a dollar for every time a boy called a girl he didn’t know a whore I’d have enough money to run for congress. Good rule of thumb: just be kind and respectful to everyone.

Know your audience.

Make all the offensive jokes you could ever possibly want around your friends; lord knows I sure do. But know when to make them. Making them in your pal’s basement while you play Minecraft and complain about how women don’t like you is great. Making them in class while kids can’t exit the situation is douchey.

Give your partner time to say no.

It’s your responsibility to read their emotions well and know when to stop. Checking in with consent is important and mandatory. They’re always free to change that yes to a no at any point in the game.

Taking picture of girls without their knowing is creepy.

Don’t take pictures up her skirt. Don’t take pictures of her while she sleeps. Don’t take pictures of her naked. And don’t share the pictures she sends to you. Unless it’s a picture of her on Snapchat with the caption ‘spotted’ and sent to a group chat, knock it off.

Stop using the phrase ‘Finger Blasting’.

This is more of a personal preference than anything, but don’t ya know?

‘Like a girl’ isn’t an insult.

Girls being weak and not being able to do things as well as boys? I’m sorry I’ve never met that. Never heard of that. Never seen that. Never felt that.

Don’t patronize women when they’re angry.

It’s not ‘cute’. It’s not ‘funny’. Her feelings are real, alright, and they should be taken seriously.

You don’t have to jump to the defensive right away.

If someone calls you out, listen. It doesn’t mean you have to change your opinions. And if you really don’t want to you don’t have to even stop what you’re doing. But if you slow down to listen, you might find a point. Or not. I don’t know, your life.

16

Wilson Takes a Knee

by Ihsaan Mohamed

Photo by Abby Wiswall

18

18

soccer players stood in a line as the National

themselves. They decided that they would bring it up

Anthem blared over Wilson’s speakers. They

with the rest of the team.

glanced nervously at one another, each wait-

“For us, it was really important to stand up for

ing for the other to do what they had just discussed in the

people who are not being represented right now,” said

locker room. Suddenly, sophomore Chloe Unflat dropped to

James. And so began the series of discussions with the

her knee and like dominos so did the rest of the team. And

rest of the team and coaches. Early on, boundaries

as the National Anthem continued over the speakers, the

and decisions were set to keep everyone comfortable.

Wilson Women’s Varsity Soccer team took a stance on an

“We decided in the beginning that if we [were to protest], we [would be] unified and do it together,”

issue that continues to rock the nation.

Almost two years ago Colin Kaepernick, former NFL player, took a knee during the National Anthem to protest police brutality and stand with Black Lives Matter. Though slow to take hold, his unique form of protest has become incredibly controversial and widely discussed recently. And Wilson has not been exempt from its impact. Since the start of the season, both of the Wilson women’s varsity soccer assistant coaches, Brittany Rigtrup and Giovanni Monroe, have kneeled during the national anthem. The head coach has kneeled at about half the games. Yet, none

said Alferez. Either no one would kneel or they all

“This soccer team is full of wonderful, smart girls, and I’m really proud of them for using that power they had as athletes and students to fight for what they believed in.”

would. As a team they discussed the protest movement and its significance. Yet they continued to stand at all of the games following their discussion.

Until one home game changed everything.

“We looked across the field, and we saw them [Grant high school kneeling] and it made us all think, Dang we should’ve done that,” said Alfarez. They felt embarrassed that another school had done it on Wilson’s field, while the Wilson girls had continued to stand. That night they

of the girls gave much thought to

finalized their plan to kneel at the

it. Most didn’t even understand the

next game.

significance of kneeling.

That all changed when another high school began doing it. Cleveland’s varsity women’s soccer team

And it was Unflat’s actions that fateful day that led her team into their official protest.

The players credit their coaches, specifically Mon-

began kneeling during their games and they quickly

roe, for supporting them in their actions and named

caught the attention of other players within the league.

him as a significant inspiration.

Seniors Talulah Beisel, Mariquia Alfarez, and Kaeleigh James noticed and began discussing it amongst

For Monroe, the fact that they did it not for their coaches, but because of their beliefs is the most im-

portant part in all of this.

“This soccer team is full of wonderful, smart girls, and I’m really proud of them for using that power

ing anyone and are honoring the school’s code of conduct, there is no reason for him to intervene.

“Protesting is the cornerstone of what our democ-

they had as athletes and students to fight for what they

racy is all about,” he said. “[The protest] happened

believed in,” he said.

very naturally and authentically, and it’s nice to see

The take a knee movement has dominated U.S

kids applying a mental map of the world and how you

headlines since the beginning. The conflict it has

should act and respond in moments of injustice, when

caused in the country mimics that of a similar Civ-

you see an opportunity to protest. And I think that

il Rights movement in the 60’s. It has been highly

speaks to those kids, that they’ve taken a better step

controversial, with Kaepernick being blacklisted by the

into the future.”

NFL and even President Trump weighing in with his opinion and blasting those who kneeled. So it remains, why would the soccer team risk receiving backlash from their community?

Both Monroe and the girls said they did not expect nor were they afraid of receiving it.

Maybe, because at Wilson High School, they didn’t have to anticipate any backlash. Located in Portland, one of the most liberal cities in the country,

Mike Nolan, Wilson’s new athletic director, also showed support for the girls and their protest.

“What Kaepernick did started the conversation around justice, around equal rights, [and] at least brought attention that we have this society that we think is great, on top, but underneath that crust, there are definitely some issues we like to sweep under the rug.”

But as expected, parents of the players were still

the school very much echoes the attitude of the city it

concerned. While Kaley’s parents were more inter-

lies in.

ested in discussing the matter and making sure their

“Portland is pretty good at standing up for people, and being active [in social justice movements],” said James, “and that’s exactly what we were doing.”

Monroe, on the other hand, did not even take into

daughter knew what she was doing, Beisel’s parents took a different approach.

“My dad was really mad at me. He told me that I was disrespecting the troops,” said Beisel. “But my

account its potential. “This is a public institution, and

mom was really proud of me for standing up for what

they had every right to do it.”

I believed in.”

The administration echoed his statement. “ [Politics] has a place here. High school sports is

The protest movement rocking the nation has been more than just about professional athletes kneeling.

one of the many outlets that happen for young peo-

People all across the country, regardless of age, gen-

ple,” said principal Brian Chatard. “If kids want it to

der, or race, have stood united in a cause they believe

have a place, it’s going to have a place. This is their

strongly in. And the fact that players in a city as Cau-

venue.”

casian as Portland contributed to that proves it.

He believes that as long as students are not harm-

20

Please My Cheese

words and photos by Mira Coles

Photo: From Left to Right, Drew Wiley, Trent Nesbitt, Christos Makarouis

22

C

reating a company from scratch is daunting to

ing and advertising the shirts to their largest audience:

most, but to sophomores Trent Nesbitt, Christos

Wilson High. Although the responsibilities are any-

Makarounis, and Drew Wiley, it’s just an aver-

thing but fairly divided, the collaboration and natural

age weekend. These self-proclaimed young entrepreneurs

chemistry within the company would be impossible

are the founders of Please My Cheese, an apparel company

without all of them.

that’s spread rapidly throughout their Wilson fan base. In

One of the first and only challenges the start up

the span of a couple months these teenagers have managed

had to overcome was an original fourth member who

to turn a few videos on Instagram into a profitable clothing

is no longer with the group. Although they still remain

company.

friends with him, the previous member was said to

According to Makarounis, the whole thing began as a joke; Scootering around the suburban streets of Southwest Portland, they started recording tricks and posting them online. Makarounis chose Please My Cheese for it’s immediate imagery and thought provoking nature. Before they

have “eaten up the mood”. Described as a black hole, the member never seemed to show the same ambition

The whole thing began as a joke; Scootering around the suburban streets of Southwest Portland, they started recording tricks and posting them online.

and enthusiasm for the company that was vital to making everything work. Eventually, he just disappeared.

The team stresses how important of a role each of them play. Without Ma-

knew it, their Instagram pages began garnering huge

karounis cracking jokes, things would get too serious;

amounts of attention; They had unknowingly creat-

without Wiley’s unifying attitude there wouldn’t have

ed a brand for themselves. Their scooter tricks alone

been teamwork; and, of course, without Nesbitt noth-

generated excitement from their fellow classmates, but

ing would have been possible.

that wasn’t enough. In the words of Wiley, “That’s big, but we can go bigger.”

“The mood has to be set for things to go right, and it was just a perfect storm,” said Nesbitt. The mood

The transition to apparel came naturally to

was definitely there, but it wasn’t always that way.

the team with member Trent Nesbitt’s background

Perhaps their easy going abilities can be con-

in graphic design and a collective interest in fashion.

tributed to their many years of friendship. The boys

In fact, as the logo designer and physical producer of

have known each other for a long time, and have even

many of its products, Nesbitt does the majority of the

worked together before in a group called Westwood

work for the business. Wiley and Makarounis attempt

Records. With Wiley headlining, Nesbitt designing the

to help with the domain organization and website

fan art and Makarounis as a reserved rapper, they left

updates, but their talents are better spent on market-

their mark in the music world as well, with over three

thousand views on some of their songs. But they were still looking to expand their empire, finding new ways

at a certain goal.

But for them, it was never really about the money.

to put their business savvy to good use; That’s where

The business suffers from huge ups and downs in al-

Please My Cheese came in.

most all aspects, but the owners aren’t concerned. The

Their clothes, which include both hoodies and

large gaps in time between product releases leaves little

t-shirts, are uni-sex. The high quality shirts are manu-

dependability with the brand, and while their mar-

factured in bulk and printed in California before being

keting brings in immediate customers and can spark

shipped to the crew. Their website features their new-

excitement, many people forget about the company.

est product “Gas Mouse”, a clean, deep blue t-shirt with the logo clearly visible.

So what does success look like for the three friends? “You’re looking at

Without Makarounis crack- it”, said Wiley. To PMC, success is just about people as the “Rat Trap Hoodie”, ing jokes, things would get having a good time. Please is sold in multiple colors for My Cheese is unsure about a cool night out or a cozy too serious; without Widay in. The simple sweatley’s unifying attitude there it’s future, as the owners are unwilling to produce shirt displays the iconic its “hypebeast” clothes logo of “please” in bright wouldn’t have been teamorange letters on the front work; and, of course, with- without the hype of a constant fan base. But they and a centered mouse trap out Nesbitt nothing would insist it was never meant to on the back, both designed be profitable. Even though

by Nesbitt. have been possible.

Their first release, known

The boys laughed at

they’re currently looking

the thought of wearing their own clothes and don’t

for investors, they aren’t worried it won’t grow bigger.

believe it’s cool to represent their own brand. Wearing

It was always about the fun, not the business.

the new apparel is only a technique they use to market every new product’s release, but besides that they distance themselves from their clothes.

And even though it’s important to the team to

Please My Cheese is accessible on their Instagram, @pleasemycheese, and on the website www.nez-

keep their fluctuating prices affordable, they still

tren.tictail.com under “Projects”, as it functions as

have no trouble breaking even. In fact, they’ve even

an extension of Nesbitt’s personal design account.

collected a tidy profit which they split equally. They treat each product like a separate project instead of a continuing business. Instead of dividing each dollar as soon as they get it, they pile the money until it maxes

24

Art by Kylie Robinson

Art by Vivian Monterio

26

The Dreamer Next Door words and Photo by Ihsaan Mohamed

28

D

reamers. A group of Americans who live

cult for their parents, and the only neighborhood they

without any rights or protection. Every

could afford to live in turned out to be similar to their

routine traffic stop, every illness, and every

old home in Mexico. But soon enough, opportunities

job could potentially end their lives as they know it. Yet

arose, and their lives gradually improved. And when

they have been among us ever since they could re-

they left California to unite with extended family in

member. As little children, they were brought into this

Oregon, that helped provide an extra layer of familial

country with their parents, either on visas or illegally.

protection.

They are the children next door. And the very fabric of their being is woven into the stars and stripes.

They are that T.A. from your biology lab class, that

Unfortunately, Karen quickly realized that she and others like her couldn’t do a lot once they were out of high school. When all of their friends were off on

worker in the In-N-Out drive through. Or even more

vacations traveling around the world, they were stuck

likely, that kid sitting next to you in AP Government.

at home because they couldn’t risk leaving the country.

Within Wilson’s walls lie more than meets the naked

And when their friends went off to college, they were

eye. Although we may not be the most diverse school,

stuck finding low-wage jobs willing to hire them off the

our students come from a

books because of their

vast array of backgrounds.

undocumented status.

They are the children next And one of those students, door. And the very fabric Karen Swanson, is a future of their being is woven into dreamer.

Karen was only six years stars and stripes.

Sometimes, in an effort to protect them, their parents hid this information from their

old when her parents sent

kids (although this was

for her from the U.S. As a

not Karen’s case). This

young child, she lived in Guadalajara, Mexico, a re-

allowed them to grow up worry-free, thinking of them-

gion with high rates of poverty and violence. Her par-

selves as American citizens, only to experience a major

ents were able to come to the country early on, leaving

shock and identity crisis when they found out the truth.

Karen and her older brother with family. Once her

This all changed in 2014, when the Obama

parents began making money, they immediately paid a

administration decided to put an end to the hiding

smuggler to bring their two children to California.

and uncertainty. With the flick of his pen, President

The journey was incredibly difficult, and she re-

Obama made it possible for these young adults to ob-

members the long days of walking and hiding as they

tain work permits, leave the country and securely come

attempted to cross the border unsuspected. But that

back, and even apply for college.

journey was vital to helping Karen and her family find the American Dream.

However, life did not automatically get better.

Getting a job without legal status proved quite diffi-

Karen’s family is full of DACA recipients. A few members in her extended family and her brother are all DACA kids. And they’ve credited the program with helping them successfully establish themselves. They’ve

all been able to get jobs, go to college, and establish a better life for themselves than they ever could have in Guadalajara.

said But her worrying about her family will never end.

“My brother got a tattoo that encompasses his Mexi-

About 800,000 people are DACA recipients in the

can heritage, and my dad was worried that Homeland

United States right now. But with the Trump ad-

security would take that as a sign of gang association

ministration's new policy on dreamers, the recipients

and not renew his application. But thankfully they

have come under a lot of heat from the right. Their

did.”

legitimacy has been questioned, and they have been

Right about now there are about 800,000 DACA

attacked relentlessly. Yet the majority have stood beside

recipients in the United States. But with the Trump

them and fought for their right to be here.

administration's new policy on Dreamers, the recip-

Yet for a long time, Karen and her parents were apprehensive to let her apply. because once she did so, her information would be easily accessible.

“Who’s stopping them (ICE) from knocking down the door and just taking us?” she said.

However, when she became a junior, she realized DACA would be crucial to her life in the US. “I realized without [DACA], I could still

ients have come under a lot of heat from the right.

Their legitimacy has been questioned, and they have

“One time, I was walking home and a police car drove by, and even though I knew it was irrational, I still had that fear of what if they were at my house?”

been attacked relentlessly.

As of December 2017, DACA has been rescinded.

New applications will no longer be accepted, and renewals will no longer be accepted as of October 5, 2017. For those whose DACA expires after March 5, 2018, they will have a limited amount of time left as legal residents in the coun-

go to college and get my degree and do everything, but

try. And for those who newly applied for DACA before

then not get a job once I’m done”. She was adamant

its cancellation, they will be forced to live in a state of

that she become a recipient. So, in the beginning of

limbo until Homeland Security responds to them.

the year, she sent in her application. At first, her fear heightened since her information was now available to

What would this mean to her? More than a job, more than a degree, it would mean a life.

Homeland Security.

“One time, I was walking home and a police car

As of the publication of this article, Karen

drove by, and even though I knew it was irrational, I

Swanson has been approved as a DACA recip-

still had that fear of what if they were at my house?

ient!

What’s going to happen now? But now even though I’m still wary because they have my [ID], I know that it is highly unlikely that anything will happen,” Karen

30

LEGAL LOCAL CIVIL RIGHTS INQUIRIES Brian Chatard, Title VI, IX Coordinator (503) 916-5280 Maude Lamont, 504 Coordinator (503) 916-5280 DISTRICT TITLE VI & IX INQUIRIES Greg Wolleck HS Regional Administrator (503) 916-3963

DISTRICT 504 INQUIRIES Tammy Jackson, Director, Student Services (503) 916-5460 AMERICAN DISABILITIES ACT CONTACT Maureen Sloan, HR Legal Counsel Human Resources - BESC (503) 916-3025