VCHS GYMNASTS 4-PEAT AS EDC CHAMPIONS Take 3Rd at State

Opinions Monthly Arts & Sports Remembering Page 2 Features Entertainment Page 9 & 10 David Pages 3-5 Page 8 Page 11

February 28, 2017 A Valley City High School Publication - Valley City, North Dakota, 58072 Volume 81, Issue 6 The Bridges Snow Week Snap Shot by Rebecca Montecuollo Snow week was February 6-11, and the week started off with college day, the annual Powder Buff game, and coronation that night. At coronation it was finally revealed who would be king and queen. Cole McGough was crowned Snowball king and Maren Horner was crowned Snowball queen. At the Powder Buff game, the juniors beat the seniors and even battled the teachers, winning one match against the staff. On Tues- day students competed to be the most invisible by dressing up in their favorite camouflage outfits. Wednesday began with students wearing comfortable, baggy clothes for oversize day. On Thursday people wore double the denim. Although there were some fashioni- stas who just couldn’t bring themselves to double up that denim. Friday was the usual Blue and White day so everybody could come together and show their Hi-Liner school spirit. After a fun week of dressing up, the Snowball dance was held Saturday in the cafeteria. The student council decided to have a Sadie Hawkins dance where girls asked their favorite guys to the dance. (more photos on page 11) Pictured are the VCHS Snowball Royalty: (Left to Right) Kallie Brandt, Justin Manson, Queen Maren Horner, King Cole McGough, Taylor Johnson, Quinn Bjornson. (Photo courtesy of Dutton’s Valley Gallery) VCHS GYMNASTS 4-PEAT AS EDC CHAMPIONS take 3rd At state

by Annie Fitzell The Valley City gymnastics team has claimed the EDC championship once again. The team conquered, with a combined score of 146.42, for the fourth year in a row. Multiple VCHS gymnasts were chosen for this year’s EDC. Taylor Johnson, Michaela Thibert, Hannah Sorensen, Jocey Kriewald, and Grace Ander- son were all selected, and Taylor Johnson was named the individual all around champion with the overall first place in beam, vault, and bars. Michaela Thib- ert won the EDC floor championship. Suzanna Fisher won the EDC Coach of the year, and Taylor Johnson was given the title of the EDC Outstanding Senior Athlete. Johnson said in regards to this title, “It feels amazing! I’m so honored to be nominated for it! It’s been an amazing year for both my teammates and I, and I couldn’t be more proud of how this season has turned out for us.” On February 24 the Hi-Liners headed west to Dick- inson to compete in the state tournament. They finished third as a team on Friday. The individual competition continued on Saturday with senior Taylor Johnson recording a second place finish on beam, and being named the 2017 ND Senior Gymnast. Other finishes included Michaela Thibert 4th All-Around with a 3rd on bars, 7th on vault, 9th on beam and 12th on floor; Jocey Kriewald 15th All-Around, and 8th on vault; Grace Anderson 11th on vault; Hannah Sorensen 12th on bars; Olivia Olson 12th on beam. Team Photo Front Row: MaKayla Gordon, Olivia Olson, Michaela Thibert, Jocey Kriewald. Back Row: Coach Fisher, Britta Roehich, Grace Anderson, Han- nah Sorensen, Taylor Johnson, Coach S. Fisher. Team Photo courtesy of Dutton’s Valley Galley. Left: Taylor Johnson 2017 ND Senior Gymnast. VCHS gymnasts perform at the Youth Sports Complex - Olivia Olson, Britta Roehrich, Michaela Thibert(photos submitted by M. Bratrud and K. Olson). Opinion 2 The Bridges February 28, 2017 Constitutional In My Judgment... Here’s my on by Mackenzie Leroux Carry Ever since his Inauguration on by Sam Jenson Slant January 20, 2017, Donald Trump Recently the North Dakota House passed the ‘constitutional carry’ gun bill. The law states that any has been receiving the wrath of qualified person can carry a concealed firearm without a permit. To become a ‘qualified’ carrier, all many as he announces some of his someone has to have is a valid North Dakota drivers license for over at least a year, (and be able to new plans. One of his first acts as attain a class 2 concealed carry license with today’s laws)? president involved his Immigra- For this bill to become law, it still has to be passed by the State Senate. According to an article writ- tion Ban. Seven (majority-Muslim) ten by John Hageman in the Fargo Forum, there was very little discussion regarding the ‘constitutional countries, such as Syria and Iraq, carry’ bill. The fact that there was very little debate on this bill concerns me. At no point did someone have been involved in Trump’s decide to stand up and question the insanity of this bill? No elected representative stood up and ques- new decision; which bans all im- tioned why we are reforming our gun legislation when North Dakota isn’t struggling with gun violence migration from these countries to all that much in comparison to other states in America. the United States. The thought of So the North Dakota House decides to let any qualified man or woman be able to conceal a deadly not having illegal immigrants in the US is an ideal thought, but the weapon with them at all times. For what? To try and fix an issue that isn’t really a problem in our state, reality is that it would be almost impossible to find a way to do that the state legislature has decided to let every qualified man or woman walk the streets protect them- without deporting people who already have a life here. selves and protect others? This bill will only create more gun violence. The more guns flowing freely Due to this new act, many foreign students and workers have on the streets will not create a safer environment for civilians. Thinking that this bill will make people been stranded in their home countries with no way to resume their safer is just pure lunacy. It is proven that states with more gun regulation see less gun violence per lives in America. This is not only unfortunate for them, but for their capita than states with very little gun regulation. Here’s to hoping that our state senate has the common family members, and their schooling/jobs. sense to shoot down this bill. A law passed in 1952 states that the president has the ability to “suspend the entry of any class of aliens” which can cause harm to the United States. This law has been the reason that the immigration Don’t be the guy with the mic. . . ban has not yet been able to be repealed. Although Donald Trump by Annie Fitzell has the power to keep different ethnicities out of our country for On February 13, public speaker Tony Hoffman now, he needs to decide what is the best decision for the United came to Valley City High School and gave one of the States. Since we have checks and balances in our federal system, most powerful speeches many of the students and the judicial system will consider the constitutionality of Trump’s staff have ever heard. Hoffman’s story was so eye- ban based on their interpretation of the 1952 law. opening, it inspired a voice inside students to speak up and say, “I don’t ever want to be the guy holding the microphone.” But, just like Hoffman, that is a very real possibility for any of us. Will you be my Valentine? “One decision can affect the rest of your lives.” by Brelynn Komrosky If we aren’t careful with the choices we are given, The feast of Lupercalia. Does this ring any bells in your head? It many of us could easily end up walking through that should; it is known today as Valentine’s Day, so drop the nonsense that one-way door which changes our lives forever. That card companies made this day up. I bet they praise Juno for the money door for Hoffman was drugs. After throwing away they make on it however . In Ancient Roman days Juno, was celebrated his talents and ambitions for his addiction, Hoff- on February 14 to honor the Goddess of women and marriage. The fol- man began a long road of losing himself. He hustled lowing day is the Feast of Lupercalia. It’s a fertility festival. This festi- drugs and became an entirely different person. Even val is for Romulus and Remus. his parents eventually cut him out of their lives. The custom was that young boys would draw out names of the girls In 2004, Hoffman was arrested for a home-invasion armed robbery of a friend’s mom for prescription drugs, from a jar, then the usually strictly separated boys and girls would be and he faced 17 years in prison. However, he received a second chance when he was merely placed on probation. together for the rest of the festival. Normally the matched pair would Hoffman’s life did not improve. He relapsed and ended up homeless. Three years later, he violated his probation fall in love and eventually marry. Eventually the custom was done away and went to prison for the next two years. with because it was not Christian and the custom relied on luck. This prison time was good for Hoffman’s addiction. While other inmates found ways to get drugs and alcohol, Another big part of how the Valentine’s Day we know and love came Hoffman decided to stay clean. He wrote his family, who refused to visit him, claiming he was going to change about today was because of a priest named St. Valentine. After Emperor and become a better person. Though his parents didn’t believe him at first, they finally visited him. After about ten Claudius II took away marriages to help people join the army. Secretly years of drugs controlling Hoffman’s every move, he was finally on the road to getting clean. He even endured a Valentine married people any way. Leading to him being badly beaten painful surgery without the use of pain medication because he was afraid of relapsing. Every day was a challenge and eventually on February 14, 270 AD he was executed. Although for him, and today he is still haunted by the memories. there is another story that he fell in love with a guard’s daughter and Throughout the years, Hoffman has known many more drug-addicts who have died from overdose than who that is why he was put to death. have recovered. It’s much harder to get clean and stay clean than most people believe, and that is many people’s This is why so many other people exchange valentines and celebrate downfall. Someone can’t try a drug once and then “get off whenever he or she wants.” Once people walk through love. People started the tradition in honor of St.Valentine, who became that door, they can’t walk back out, and they have to fight tooth and nail just to stay alive another day. a saint after his death. After Hoffman got clean, he decided to take up BMX racing, which was one of his natural talents as a kid. He He was after all a big romantic, so this was a perfect way to remember became a pro BMX racer, and today he even coaches BMX. Hoffman clawed his way out of the pit as he wit- him. So “ From your Valentine” - St. Valentine enjoy the day he gave nessed those around him falling even deeper. Think your choices through adamantly, and have a good attitude. It you and cherish loved ones and show you care. really can affect your entire life. Stvalentinesday.org is the site where I found all the information about this popular saint.

The Bridges The Bridges Editorial...... 460 Central Avenue North June 16, 2015 was a fateful day indeed. Donald Trump rode down the infamous golden escala- Valley City, North Dakota 58072 tor in his even more infamous Trump Tower to announce his bid for the presidency. In his speech email: [email protected] Editor-in-Chief: Annie Fitzell he outlined many things he would plan to do should he be elected, possibly the most memorable News Editor: To be determined among these being the Mexico Wall. “I will build a great, great wall on our southern border,” he Opinion Editor: Annie Fitzell claimed. “And I will have Mexico pay for that wall. Mark my words.” Monthly Feature: To be determined Special Feature Editor: To be determined The people did indeed mark his words. Over the next 19 months, crowds cheered and hollered, Feature Editor: To be determined often chanting “Build that wall!” at rallies en masse. Donald Trump is now President Donald Arts & Entertainment Editors: Trierre Smith Trump, meaning he will now be pressured into making good on one of the biggest promises of Cartoonists: Libby Borg, Annie Fitzell Sports Editor: Sam Jenson his campaign. Advisor: Eydie Wagar So how will he accomplish this astronomical feat? For one thing, President Trump has repeat- Staff: Annie Fitzell, Sam Jenson, Anthony Capistran, Rebecca Montec- edly claimed that Mexico would pay for the wall. However, President Enrique Peña Nieto of uollo, Trierre Smith, Dalon Allen,Katie Clark, Libby Borg, Matt Brandvold, Brelynnn Komrosky, Mackenzie Leroux, Rose Marcellus, Cole McGough, Mexico has repeatedly declared that the the Mexican government would not pay for the wall in David Opdahl. any way, shape, or form. (701)845-0483 ex. 2 Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell estimated that the wall would cost anywhere be- The Bridges is published monthly during the school year by VCHS tween $12–$15 billion. On January 25 President Trump signed an Executive Order to “secure the journalism students at 460 Central Avenue N, Valley City, ND 58072. The southern border of the United States through the immediate construction of a physical wall on the opinions expressed in this paper are not necessarily those of the student southern border.” The order does not specify how the wall will be financed. body, the faculty, administration or the school board. The Bridges will accept advertisements if they are not considered libelous, obscene or do not promote The Current Border the use or sale of illegal goods or services. In 2006, President Bush signed the Secure Fence Act into law. Over the next few years fencing would be implemented along the Mexico–U.S. border. As of January 2009 the U.S. Customs and Border Protection reported that it had more than 580 miles of barriers in place (the total length of Letters to the Editor the border is 1,954 miles long). The barriers consist of relatively short fences that are connected Letters to the editor are encouraged, but the Bridges staff reserves the right to edit letters for length and content. Please refer such by ‘virtual fencing’ (motion detectors). correspondance to the address or email address above. Monthly Feature The Bridges 3 February 28, 2017 VCHSby Cole McGough Athletes and Artists What are the ODDS? by Katie Clark Athlete of the Month Athlete of the Month Artist of the Month What are the odds of getting sick? The odds seem pretty high for me. Every year, it seems, I max out on my sick days. This year was the worst. After the first of January, I got sick with a generic cold. I made a quick recovery, only to find out two weeks later I was sick again with a high fever. That kept me out of school for three days. Of course by then I was struggling to get through the end of the semester. When the new semester began I was determined to stay healthy. But what do you know? I got sick once again with a nasty ear infection that left me without hearing in one ear for several weeks. After several trips to the doctor, and being told repeatedly I had a viral infection, I used every ounce of my 18-year-old-adult-self-advocacy skills, and insisted that I be given antibiotics. After two days on antibiotics, I finally felt some relief, and after a week and a half, I was 100% better. According to attendanceworks.org: An estimated 5 to 7.5 million U.S. Abby Slyter Jonathon Langer Taylor Johnson students miss nearly a month of school each year. Chronic health issues Gymnastics Speech are the number one reason for student absences. Wrestling Missing 10 percent of the school year, or about 18 days in most school Favorite professional athlete? Favorite professional athlete? districts, negatively affects a student’s academic performance. That’s just Shawn Johnson What’s your favorite event? Preston Laymon Serious prose two days a month. Getting sick is a problem for students. If sick students continue to go to Favorite sport other than the Favorite sport other than the school, the risk of infecting others is increased. If sick students stay home, one you are currently in? Favorite artist/musician? one you are currently in? learning is affected. Track Original cast of Hamilton Football In Valley City, the school district’s response is to limit students to 20 absences per year. Nearly every year of high school, I have received a warn- What motivates you to do your Favorite movie/play? What motivates you to do your ing letter reminding me that I may have to repeat the year if I reach my 20 sport? Hamilton the musical sport? day maximum. This policy might reduce absences, but does not address My teammates and the excite- Being better than the year before the issue of chronic sickness. A better approach might be for Valley City ment when the team does well Favorite song/piece of art? Wait for it... Hamilton the mu- Public Schools to work closely with local health care officials to determine Powerade or Gatorade and fla- strategies to prevent the spread of illnesses such as colds and flu, and to Powerade or Gatorade and fla- sical vor? devise a plan on how to effectively support students who are caught in a vor? Gatorade: Green Apple cycle of repeatedly being sick. Powerade: Blue Powered Zero Who’s your favorite team- mate? A lot of triggers are known to make people sick: lack of sleep, high Do you have any pre-game ritu- stress level, and not washing hands. In winter time, especially, it is impor- Do you have any pre-game ritu- Erik Johnson als? tant to keep a good germ-free profile. My tip to you is get at least eight als? Listen to Monster by Skillet hours of sleep, don’t over stress about something, and always wash your listening to music hands. If you’re feeling sick, don’t push yourself. You want to be able to make a full recovery, and we all need to limit the days that we miss school.

Reviewsby Brelynn Komrosky with When we first . . walked . Brelynn in, we with a tortilla, Annie got a chicken Ever have a craving for some were confused whether to sit down enchilada which she said was good authentic Mexican food? Well or wait to be seated. After we found ,though she really likes the chicken Annie Fitzell and I did last Satur- a seat the waitress was quick to give fajitas , but it was all tasty. day. So we went to the new Mexi- us our menus and take our orders. Service, I would say, needed can restaurant Maria Maria, right The menu had a mix of American improvement. There was only one here in Valley City (located at the food, like sandwiches and fries, and waitress in a busy room full of old Kenny’s Restaurant).Overall I what seemed to be pretty authen- hungry customers. Even with her would give it an 8 out of 10. When tic (to a non-ethnic girl) Mexican friendliness, she could not tend to you first walk in the atmosphere of foods. everyone’s needs simultaneously. the place is wonderful. The color While waiting for our food, we My only suggestion would be to scheme was light colors like yel- got tortilla chips and spicy salsa. It have a sign saying, wait to be seat- low, blue, green, and white with a was so good. I would say the chips ed or seat yourself to avoid confu- splash of orange and red here or and salsa was better than Paradiso’s. sion. Also, maybe have more than there. Hanging from the ceiling Annie got her meal first, and I re- one waitress once your restaurant there were two or three colorful ceived mine a while after hers. The grows. metal birds, which I thought added food was pretty good. I ate Hawai- I would recommend Maria Ma- a lot to the feel of the place. The ian fajitas, which came on a steam- ria. The place looks good . They atmosphere and decor of the res- ing black plate. It had chicken, pine- have good food, and they have nice taurant I would give a 10 out of 10 apple, green peppers, and onions. It workers. Annie and I had a good no problem. was also,I think, suppose to come time and a nice meal.

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www.vcsu.edu w 1.800.532.8641 Monthly Feature 4 The Bridges February 28, 2017 Remembering the Good Old Days. . . by Rebecca Montecuollo Jane Winge was born on January that gave her a ride were people neighbor near 8, 1926 in Wilkinsburg, Pennsyl- that she knew. him gave up vania. Every day she walked two Jane worked on the NDSU off his quarter, so miles to grade school and as she -campus faculty full time, she said Ralph’s father’s got older she walked four miles to it was off campus because she was cousin came Junior High. In High School she in departments where they would and started to rode a trolley for the three and a write material and newspaper ar- homestead the half miles to school. On her way ticles. She started working on her land. There was back to the trolley after school, doctorate and needed two languag- nothing there she went by a bakery and since es. She chose French and Computer but coyotes she would most often have two Science. Then she went to Florida and they lived cents she could buy a donut. on a sebatical, or a paid vacation to in their shack. One of the things she remem- work on her doctorate, and she got They built a bers from grade school was when to see her good friend, Ralph, and shack on the you went to go get your shots, he proposed to her there. They got quarter line, there were about twenty people married in Florida while Jean was and slept in the at a time, and she remembers the working on her doctorate at Florida same room, but guy in front of her stiffened up State. Ralph and Jane got married on their own and leaned up against her and it on March 1, 1974. side of the line. One day Ralph’s New Town. They wanted to com- a member of the State and Federal was like a domino effect and ev- Ralph was born and raised in dad was making sauerkraut with his bine the names and name it Vanish government commitee and natural eryone fell down. western North Dakota, on August cousin and they were chopping up but that didn’t go over very well. reasources. He was there when oil In Junior High she was a cheer- 25, 1925. His father homesteaded cabbage. When they got done, they Ralph was there when the grinder was descovered in North Dakota leader. She remembers the colors the area that he grew up on before set it on the porch because they had came through to make the main back in the late 1970’s and early were red and white and she wore they were flooded out by Garri- other things to do, so the neighbor’s street for the town. 1980’s. He was also part of the saddle shoes. In High School, son Dam. His father homesteaded cow, came and ate all of it. They lived there until Garrison transportation commitee and was they went up highway thirty in the land around 1912. When they The nearest town, Vanhook, was Dam flooded them out and they good friends with the governor at the trolley, but one time they had opened up that area to homestead- 20 miles away from the homestead. moved 300 miles to Litchville. the time. to close everything down because ers. His father had to live on the When Garrison Dam flooded out Ralph went to NDSU for college I am so privilaged to get to know of snow, so to get to school they area for a certain amount of time most of the area, Vanhook and San- and was a temparary Speaker of the Jane and Ralph and I hope I get to had to put their thumb out to get and then he would get to keep it. ish were both flooded out so they House for the North Dakota Legis- learn even more about them in the a ride. Lucky for Jane the people Each person got one quarter. The made a new town, and named it lature for about 20 years. He was future.

Fuel-Up February Happenings fun and entertaining by Mackenzie Leroux est game score prediction’ was a ways. Fuel Up To Play 60 has been tie between Jackson Mulder and The team ended very busy preparing to be a vari- Carmela Stangeland. They both their month with a ous events. National Cheese guessed 35-28 which resulted trip to ‘AgCoun- Lover’s Day was held on January in a coin toss to decide the tie, try’ to speak to the 20, in which members handed out where Jackson won and received dairy farmers about cheese sticks to all students and a signed football helmet. the importance of staff in the morning. The next On Thursday, February 9, their dairy and how week, they handed out frozen Go- VCHS students Kennadee Joris- it plays a vital role Gurts to celebrate National Yo- sen and Abby Slyter, hosted the in the young lives of gurt day and encourage students event ‘Empowering a Positive today. to eat more yogurt. You’ for their DECA campaign. It In March, Macy With the Superbowl, Fuel Up focuses on the body image issues Schlaht is due to to Play 60 put on an NFL day. that are seen among many young make a special ap- Many VCHS students show- girls and women today. The Se- pearance to the Sioux cased their favorite football nior High students of Fuel Up Falls “2017 Central teams, and the best dressed were: served smoothies for all of the at- Plains Dairy Expo” where they VCHS Fuel-Up NFL pride participants. (photo by E. Wagar) Preston Nyugen, Hannah Lok- tendees. Also on Thursday night, will air the commercial made ken, and Mrs. Vanbruggen, who the younger members of the Fuel by Macy and other ambassadors were awarded with Dairy Queen Up team helped Washington stu- while she was in Iowa last sum- treats. The winners of the ‘clos- dents become more active in mer. Trierre’s Fashion Annie’s Top 5 Advice Tips. . . . Corner ....for having a conversation! by Trierre Smith by Annie Fitzell We all hope this warmer weather With everybody now-a-days texting away on their technological de- doesn’t leave us. Some of us don’t vices, many people forget how to hold a real life conversation without even wear jackets anymore. But it is the use of their thumbs. With so many people struggling to stay social, North Dakota, the winters here are there are a few tips to help you get back out there and actually talk. long. 1. Act Confident. Even if you’re not actually confident, acting the I usually report on a current fashion trend or what to wear. In this part can make a world of difference. People who seem like they know article I want to report on what not to wear. The fashion can fly around what they’re doing can take the nerve off the other person and conver- here, but not somewhere else. I am not here to offend someone. I want sation easier. Also, pretending to be confident, can, in turn, make you everyone to be confident in what they wear, but I am just writing my actually feel more confident. opinion on what is “in” and what is not “in”. 2. Ask questions. Asking questions should be a two way street, Since there are a lot of country kids in Valley City, I would like to meaning both you and the other person should make an effort to get address that cowboy boots do not go with sweatpants. Never has that to know each other better. Try to avoid questions with yes or no an- combo been a trend. swers; ask questions which require elaboration. Instead of “Do you Something that really bugs me is when people do not know how to like sunsets?” ask, “What do you find to be most beautiful about sun- match. Stripes and polka dots do not go together. Crazy pattern leg- sets?” After they give their answer, you can ask them more questions gings and designed shirts do not go together either, not just patterns involving their response, and you can even give your own input to the but colors as well. Black and blue do not go together. question. There is never a lack of questions. Think you know everything about a person and have ran out of For guys, coming to schools with dirty clothes from welding isn’t questions to ask? Get random! Would You Rather questions can really help you get a better understanding attractive or sanitary at all. Shouldn’t there be an outfit to wear at of someone’s personality. Votech? 3. Add your input. The entire pressure of the conversation shouldn’t fall entirely on one person. Make On a positive note a good/bad trend for girls is glitter for the part sure you add adequate input (i.e. stories, etc), and listen when it is the other person’s turn to talk. Don’t of your hair. Many different types of colors are available. In our area make everything about yourself. Everyone loves talking about himself or herself, so in order for both par- you can purchase them at Forever 21. ties to enjoy the conversation, both have to be willing to listen and let the other person talk. Polo shirts for guys are a hit. They have always been a good brand 4. Don’t force it. If you’re feeling extremely pressured, and the other person isn’t contributing anything and are even classier for Snowball, or any dance. to the conversation, then don’t force it. You should be enjoying yourself, not hating every moment. That Another brand of clothing for men is Carhartt. It is used for as being said, give it a chance. Practicing is good, and disregarding every conversation isn’t healthy. working apparel, but I am talking about the fashion part of it. The 5. Be you. Don’t try and change into someone else. Just be yourself, and if they don’t like you for you, shirts and beanies are really in fashion for winter. The long sleeve then you’re talking to the wrong person. Find people who accept you to spend your time with so you don’t shirts for guys are becoming popular as more and more celebrities are end up wasting your breath pretending to be someone you’re not. wearing them. The Bridges Monthly Features 5 February 28, 2017 ‘Sup, former teachers?What’s new Miss Lambrecht? by Libby Borg est too is called Clontarf (popula- VCHS? We are starting calving this month This month’s past staff member tion 161 people). For people that I miss the staff I worked with and so I’m excited to spend free time is Jennifer Lambrecht Rustad, past don’t know the area (like me before all the students I also actually miss with some cute baby calves! I also VCHS guidance counselor. I moved out here) I live about 45 setting up for prom and homecom- try to make it back to Grand Forks Tell us a bit about your new job? minutes south of Alexandria, MN. ing dances because it gave me time to see my parents. I started this school year as an Have you gone on any interest- outside of school to really get to When are you going to come back elementary counselor for Morris ing trips since you have moved know some of the students. and visit us? Area Elementary School in Mor- away? How’s married life? I’m hoping soon!! I plan on be- ris, MN. Just recently I was moved No, we haven’t had much time to Married life is great! ing there for prom and graduation! Mr. & Mrs. Rustad up to the high school, and now travel. I’m learning that being mar- So you are having a BABY?!?! I’m working with students 7-12 at ried to a farmer doesn’t allow for YES!!! We actually recently the high school in Morris, MN. I much travel. found out we are having a boy and LOVED working with the elemen- Do you have any pets? we are so excited for a little farm tary students but I am excited to be Yes!!! I still have my cat Pickles. boy! I’m due June 15th! back in a high school. My favorite We also have a six year old black What do you do for fun in your part of my job is getting to know lab named Jasper and we just got free time? the students but it makes me miss a golden retriever puppy named Now that I live out in Minnesota the students at VCHS. Murphy in October. We also have there is a lake about every couple Where do you live? about 10 outdoor farm cats that I miles from my house so I spend a I live on a farm in the middle have tamed since moving out there. lot of time on the lake in the sum- of nowhere! The town I’m clos- What do you miss most about mer and ice fishing in the winter.

The Burning Question...

IsEvery ‘year month, the staff round of Bridges will be school’asking a question regarding a gooddebatable topics. idea for students? Although several people may have varying views on the opinions expressed in this series of articles, it it not the intent of the Bridges staff to offend or anger any individuals. It is not our intention to disregard or diminish any activity, sport, or topic. We hope to accurately represent the opinions expressed by our student body, and use this column as a place where opinions can be expressed freely and where questions can be answered respectfully. Which is obviously needed given the present political climate in our country. Let’s agree to disagree. Rose says. . . Brelynn says. . . by Rose Marcellus by Brelynn Komrosky When most people think of year-round schools, they think its a crime to keep students in school As kids we all remember amazing summers eating ice cream, riding for a long amount of time. The truth is year-round schools are not bad at all, 46 states have imple- bike, going to the swimming pool, going to the lake, summer camp, mented year-round schools and they have substantial student achievement. etc. It gave us a break from sitting in a classroom and gave us free- For example schools in Wake County, NC have year-round education and that is all these stu- dom. As teens it let us cruise around town, hang out, go camping, go dents know. There are also significant results in year-round schooling. In West Carrollton School shopping, spend nights laughing all night with your best friend, and District in Dayton, Ohio, students in the sixth grade were studied. Those who attended year-round gave us something to look forward to. We need this break to recharge schools were reportedly testing higher in math and reading subjects. and just be kids. Not to mention the stress we face during the school One reason schools switch to year-round schooling is because it is proven year-round education year, if it weren’t for summer, some of us probably would have just has lowered retention rates especially for disadvantage students who have a hard time with learn- given up. So how would you feel about year round school? ing. They spend less time reviewing material from the previous year since students don’t encounter You may be thinking, you’ve got to be joking. Well sadly, I’m not. the “summer slide.” There have been schools who have adopted this year round school al- They continue the pace of education for their students, even though they don’t have summer vaca- ready. All these schools are also usually on different schedules, which tion for three months like traditional schools. Most follow schedules or calender plans. Multi-track- can lead to problems. Basically it works like this: class for two or ing is one type of schedule year-round schools use. Basically students and teachers are split up in three months then a one to three week break and repeat. Why change to year round school? Sure you learn more in year four groups, then three group of students and teachers are in school while the fourth group has 15 -20 round schools, when other kids are enjoying summer, but they actu- days off. Other schools operate on a single track. Everyone is in school at the same time and are out ally seem to learn less than the other kids during the rest of the school at the same year, according to Paul Von Hippel, the author of the study and re- time also. search statistician in sociology at Ohio State. These Also according to ConnectUsFund.org these frequent breaks are facts illus- disruptive. Those who struggle to find good child care, which is a lot trate year- of parents, have to deal with this wacky schedule and find somebody round to watch their kids. Otherwise parents might have to take time off schools work because their kids are on a two week break before they’re back are a ben- in school for months. Also who wants to be cramped in school when efit to stu- the weather is beautiful! Kids will be longingly looking out classroom dents, and windows wishing they had the old school system back. No more sum- not a bad mer camp. Swimming all summer? Nope you might get a week or so thing at of good weather before you’re back in school. Also planning family all. reunions and vacations would be nearly impossible with all the parents’ and kids’ different schedules, not to mention we know teachers love summer just as much as kids do. The teachers also need summer to be able to hold themselves back from blowing up dealing with wild, unruly, snotty, and occasionally quiet students daily. Do we really want burn-out teachers? Year round school may not have the “summer slide” (you need a review of what you learned For the Finest Pizza Anywhere! last year) but traditional school starts off slow and gets kids in Corner of Second and Main the school swing again with Valley City review and the list of the class- Free room rules at the beginning of Wi-Fi the year. Sure they might for- Nutrition Assistant Positions are got a little bit. They lose a little bit of knowledge momentarily, available with scheduled hours but their childhood fun is in- on weekends and after school. tact. This “Year- round -school” does seem very good on paper We Deliver! Check with us for possible Nurse’s but that’s as far as it goes. We Aid opportunities! should stick to the old system For more information regarding cur- until we get an idea that helps 845-3423 rent openings, call 701-845-8279 or expand knowledge and is in the best interest of kids wants and visit www.sheyennecarecenter.com needs, not just academic scores. Special Feature 6 The Bridges February 28, 2017 Local veteran brings WWII to life by Annie Fitzell On February 9, Vietnam Era veteran Al Schuldt visited Valley City High School history students with his impressive variety of Japanese wartime materials. With intriguing stories, Schuldt showed off the various weapons they used and how they evolved over the course of the war. Students learned the difference and change in effectiveness of numerous types of swords and guns. He also explained in a humorous manner what certain things were used for, such as particular ear plugs which keep bugs out of ears and mittens meant for protection against mosquitoes in the jungle. Schuldt mentioned the different types of clothing and medals generals earned, and what life in the jungle was like. Overall, Schuldt’s visit was very educational, and he managed to keep the lecture interesting enough so the students were on the edge of their seats waiting to hear about the next intriguing item. After all was said and done, everyone was allowed to touch and hold the materials and weapons brought. It brought a very realistic view to the students’ mind of what World War II was actually like.

Presidents’ Day or VACA? In case you were wondering about. . . . water? by Rebecca Montecuollo by Anthony Capistran When most people think of Presidents’ Day they think of a day off of Do you know what is in the water you drink? Either school. Although this is a very true statement it means so much more. Ac- at the water fountain or even inside your water bottle? cording to History.com it was established in 1885 in recognition of George All water contains a substance called pH which tells Washington and many knew it as “Washington’s Birthday.” Traditionally whether how hard or soft your water is. But how can Presidents’ Day is on February 22, Washington’s official birthday. It has water be considered too soft or hard you might ask? been changed to the third Monday in February, because of the Uniform Well let me expalin, if water contains a pH level lower Monday Holiday Act of 1971, in an effort to make more three-day week- then 7, it is considered acidic. If the water contains a ends for American workers. Today Presidents’ Day is celebrated to celebrate all presidents and what they have done for our country. higher level then 7, it is considered basic. The normal range for “good” water is between 6.5 and 8.5 which rates your water as decently efficient. Hubbub participation lacking. . . I did some research with some lab equipment to test some different types of water and I come up with this by Annie Fitzell As part of the Hi-Liner Hubbub, the school participated in the H- information: game. An H with each student’s name was placed randomly on lockers. Water Fountain by Beilke’s room - pH 9 Everyone was encouraged to find their name and put the H on their Water Fountain by Horner’s room - pH 9 locker. The first grade with all their names on their lockers was to win. Wagar’s House - pH 8 No one was allowed to move any name except their own, and no one Bottled Water: was permitted to give hints to people as to where their name was. In Nature’s Crystal Springs - pH 6 order for this team-building game to work, everyone needed to partici- Dasani - pH 5 pate. However, no one was declared a winner. Though all classes did Smart - pH 7 exceptionally well, no particular grade collected all the names in order to obtain the winning title. Let’s join together to be successful with the Photo Left: Anthony Capistran tests various water samples next Hi-Liner Hubbub! for pH levels. 100% TUITIoN assIsTaNCe Can My Banking sTUDeNT loaN rePaYMeNT aFForDaBle HealTH, lIFe & DeNTal INsUraNCe Be Easier? serVe YoUr CoMMUNITY, sTaTe & CoUNTrY Come In. Call. Click.

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Call or TexT ToDaY For More INForMaTIoN! sFC KaTIe BUZICK 701-840-1879 The Bridges This & That 7 February 28, 2017 by Rose Marcellus Empowering a Positive You Zombie Night On Febuary 9, Valley City DECA hosted an Empower- ing a Postive You event in the HAC lobby. At the event the guest speaker was Kristin Petersen. She talked about why coming to VCHS girls need to keep by Katie Clark a positive body Valley City Junior High play is on the move! They are currently rehears- image and why ing to perform their next musical Zombie Night. Directors Chelsey Jensen that is important. and Jacob Olson have been working hard to help each individual get into They also talked character. High school mentors have been helping with the choreography about ways young and singing. The seventh and eighth graders have been working diligently girls can influ- for the past month and a half and are eager to perform. The performances for Zombie Night are March 16, 17, and 18 at 7:30 each night. Tickets can ence others in a be purchased at parent teacher conferences on March 2 and 6, by calling positive way. Fuel the junior high office, or at the door. Up to Play was there to provide smoothies. Find your boots guys & gals. . . It’s ND Wintershow time by Anthony Capistran We’re coming close to a time of greasy food, kettle corn popcorn, and rodeos with silly clowns. The Winter Show is starting up back in Valley City March 4 - March 11, bringing in fans from all around. The Winter Show isn’t all about cowboys, clowns, and bulls, but it also provides a great deal of North Dakota agriculture information for people of all ages. More fun will be provided then expected by new comers, with petting zoos, livestock shows, tractor pulls, and even a stage that holds all kinds of talent. The Winter Show started back in 1937 making the Winter Show 80 years old this year. With all kinds of events happening like the rodeo, concert featuring Blackhawk, 32 Below, and Eric Paslay you’ll want to get your tickets early becuase it’s Winter Show season.

All In the Family Sibling Rivalry Get Your Lab Coat on. . . by Trierre Smith Who gets in the most trouble? It’s time for Science Olympiad Joci: Her Who gets away with Sam: Me the most? by Trierre Smith Who is the favorite? Joci: Sam The Science Olympiad season is here. Sheila Anderson is the one Joci: Me Sam: Sam to go to if you’re interested in joining. They had their meeting on Sam: Me or maybe Joci Who is the funniest? Thursday February 16. Practices have started, but not that many Who has the most friends? Joci: ME! students joined this year. You still have time to join even if you are Joci: Sam Sam: No you’re not. Sam: Meee The smartest? in other activities. The practices are flexible. The most common Who is more spoiled? Joci: *silent* time for the practices are morning, afternoon, and evenings. Joci: (laughs) Me Sam: Probably her Worried about not knowing what to do? The preparation and Sam: Her studying can also be done outside of practice. Preparing for the What do you guys like about each competition is the goal. other? Some students don’t understand what is Science Olympiad? The Joci: Nothing competition can include written tests, but in others it can include Sam: Nothing (hitting) but I guess assembling a robot called Robot Arm. she drives me everywhere Who is the most positive? Don’t think incorrectly about Science Olympiad. It is not just Joci: *silent* Probably Sam studying a book and taking tests like class is. It is all hand-on expe- Sam: Probably rience while covering all categories of science, such as engineering One thing that annoys you about and technology. each other? On March 30, the regional competition is held at Valley City State Joci: She steals my clothes University. State is held at North Dakota State University on April Sam: Umm shes annoying 22. The teams can qualify for nationals that will be in Dayton, Ohio Sam Schlotman and Joci Jorissen (photo by T. Smith) Joci: you’re so rude at Wright State University on May 19-20. HIGH-PAYING ENERGY CAREERS IN TWO YEARS OR LESS ENERGY OPEN HOUSE • MARCH 21, 2017

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ERG-008-0117 Arts & Entertainment 8 The Bridges February 28, 2017 Poetry Food for the Soul by Rose Marcellus by Dalon Allen songs that I’m sure you haven’t Country/Rock: XXXtentacion Dear light skin, you radiate January started the year off heard yet. Body like a back road- Sam I’m a stone- River TIBER sunlight, every room you pretty dry. With a few albums Here’s a list: Hunt Ready- Spooky Black FT. enter brightens up and singles dropping like the Rap/hip-hop: My Old Man- Zac Brown Bobby Raps Dear black, you are just as Culture by the Migos and two iSPY- Kyle ft. Lil Yatchy Band Make Daddy Proud- Black- beautiful, you bring class songs off of Ed Sheerans album No Options- Post Malone Believer-Imagine Dragons Bear and elegance not evilness “Divide” which he plans to re- Look at me- XXXtentacion Every time I hear that song- Get you good- Roy Woods Dear afro, keep hope alive, lease March 3. In February, the Changed me-Luke Christopher Blake Shelton Jealousy- Roy Woods wear the pick in your back drought continued with no huge Good Drank- Do you still love me- Drama- Roy Woods pocket and carry on with projects set to release. There’s 2 Chainez ft. GucciMane Ryan Adams Down Girl- Roy Woods your walk a possibility of Drake releasing Selfish- PNB ROCK We Went to the Beach- See me fall- Ro Ransom Dear “culture music” who “More Life,” but the date has Sneakin- Drake ft. 21 savage Little Big Town Benefits- Che made you? why do you changed multiple times and con- Misunderstood- PNB ROCK Star Of The Show- 2am- Che make up a general popula- tinues to get pushed back. Just RNB/Alternative: Thomas Rhett Fall- Che tion? recently Big Sean released “I Im good- 11:11 Kill A Word- Eric Church Fool Wit It- Supa Bwe Dear February, you forget Decided” which was evicerated Came Thru- Torey Lanez The Fighter- Keith Urban Kehlanis Freestyle- you are more than Valen- by the critic and user reviews. Come and see me- A Girl Like You- Easton Partynextdoor tine’s Day and President’s If you’re a fan of rock, Ryan Partynextdoor ft. Drake Corbin Valley Girls- Blackbear Day Adams’ “Prisoner” might be the Make it work- Majid Jordan Sober Saturday- Chris Young Set You Free- Bryson Tiller Dear history books, it seems album for you. It brings back the Losing control- Russ Olivia Mae- Brett Young Hotel Andrea- BlackBear like you talk about one ear classic 80’s rock vibe and the Whenever- Russ Back On The Wagon- Brett Halfway Love- ELHAE and show fragments of oth- voice of Ryan Adams tops it off. Location- Khalid Young Back Then- PNB ROCK ers Critics and user reviews say it’s Reasons- Khalid She Don’t Love You- Eric End Of Time- ELHAE a 9/10 album, and I even gave it Electric- Alina Baraz ft. Khalid Pasley Fingertips- Dear statistics, you put us a listen myself. It’s a pretty good Let me explain- Bryson Tiller Just good music (IMO): Ryan O’Shaughnessy in a group and belittle our album. Even though no new mu- Wait- August Alsina Without you- Spooky Black Evergreen- worth. Not all fathers leave sic will really be coming out this Wait for you- Daniel Caesar Changed me- Anthony Russo Ryan O’Shaughnessy a home or brothers ends up month there are still plenty of Boomerang- Russ Lets pretend We’re Numb- No Name- in a jail cell and 16-year-old sister has another human calling her momma. Our mommas breaking their Libby’s Logical Lunacy by Libby Borg backs trying to give us a good life. Dear past, can you tell a difference? We need to know the reason why there isn’t much change. You have to tell us what we need to learn from you because we clearly have no clue. Dear future, will you please tell me there are brighter days ahead of us. Should we just hope things will get better or complain while worse things happen? Dear girl, remember where you came from, know who you are even if you’re still finding that out stay true. You are part of a beauti- February by Rebecca Montecuollo ful culture no one will take from you. Dear boy, you will be mis- taken and feared, but they will not break your grounds which you were created on. Dear generation, pick yourself up, walk a little higher. No you are not boastful but supporting your heritage, you are next in line of the greatest be the change. -Dear

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by Sam Jenson As of late, Minnesota sports Girls Basketball fans haven’t had a lot to cheer by Dalon Allen about. None of the major professional league teams (NFL, MLB, The month of Febuary has Devils lake @ Valley City NBA, and NHL) based in Min- not been so hot for Valley City Loss 61-82 Girls’ Basketball. Coming off Valley City @ Davies nesota have had a legit shot at a Bowl appeances since the 70’s. some tough losses, the girls still Loss 51-72 championship since Brett Favre The Wild have made the playoffs led the Vikings to NFC champi- plenty since 91, but not one Stanley battle hard and look foward to North Fargo @ Valley City onship game in 2010. Now that Cup. The question that all Minne- continuing the season by trying Loss 44-58 Cleveland has ended their cham- sota sports’ fans are asking, is who to get a win in their EDC play Valley City @ Devils lake pionship drought, Minneapolis/ is going to be the team to end the in game. Loss 67-75 St. Paul is now the metro area drought? Sam Jenson Here are the scores from their Valley City @ West Fargo with three or more professional The Timberwolves have a talent- recent games: Loss 55-86 teams to go the longest amount obviously had the talent to make ed young team, but the likelihood Fargo South @ Valley City WF Sheyenne @ Valley City of time without seeing a cham- of them winning a championship a Super Bowl run, but injuries de- pionship. The last time a profes- railed the Vikings’ season. If the Loss 60-54 Loss 62-74 in the near future is slim to none. GFC @ Valley City Wapheton @ Valley City sional sports team from Minne- The Twins had an abismal season Vikes can stay healthy, I expect Loss 71-63 Loss 45-65 sota won a chamionship was in last year, but baseball is a funny them to be a Super Bowl favorite 1991 when the Twins defeated game. I could see the Twins being next year. The Wild are doing re- the Atlanta Braves. the team to end the drought, they ally well this season, and are look- Since 1991, there has been have a decent amount of young ing like a Stanley Cup team. They Wrestling nothing but heartache and tears talent along with a good manager. are currently the best team in the by Cole McGough for Minnesota sports fans. The Maybe not this next season or the West, and it’s no fluke. The Wild Wrestling season has come to an end, along with it the brutal Timberwolves had a few good season after that, but the Twins will have one of the best goalies in the practices and starvation. In order to make it to the state tournament years during the Garnett era, but be a competetive team in the near league, four solid lines up front, the guys had to place at regionals. Ten wrestlers qualified for state not one Finals appearance. The future. The Vikings looked like and two quality pairs of defense- at this tournament. Parker Larson took 1st at 126, Jaden Oestern Twins have made plenty of play- men. My prediction is that the they had the makings of a champi- took 2nd at 220, Cade Powers took 8th at 195, Jake Tangen took 4th off appearances since 91, but no onship team when they started out Wild are going to be the team to titles. The Vikings have been to end the drought, and other teams at 182, Sage Kvien took 6th at 170, Logan Erlandson took 2nd at 5-0 last year, but finished the season 160, David Peterson took 4th at 152, Jonathon Langer took 2nd at a few conference championships 8-8 and missed the playoffs. They will follow suit shortly after. in the 21 century, but no Super 145, Jonah Shuldheisz took 7th at 113, Austin Rogelstad took 8th at 106. The wrestlers had a pretty good season advancing to the state tournament as a team. RODRIGUEZ SINKS HIS 1000TH POINT The state tournament was held in Fargo, ND at the Fargodome. On Thursday, February 24, history was Their record throughout the season ranked the Hi-Liners the four marked in the Hi-Liner Activity Center (a.k.a. seed from the east. This put them against the number one seed from HAC) when the Fargo South Bruins came to the West, Minot. They ended up losing the dual 66-9. This loss put Valley City for the final regular season boys’ them against the number two seed from the East, Fargo Davies. basketball game. They lost the dual 58-24. About midway through the first half, Nate As far as the individual tournament went: Jake Tangen placed 8th Rodriguez scored the final 13 points that he at 182, Jonathon Langer placed 6th at 145, David Peterson placed needed to reach the career 1000 point mark. 6th at 152, Logan Erlandson placed 6th at 160, and Parker Larson Rodriguez joins an exclsuive club at VCHS placed 3rd at 126. Those who also received Academic All-State who have achieved this marker. Honors were David Peterson, Austin Rogelstad, Jonah Schuldheisz, Jeff Boschee with 1994 and Jaden Oestern. Justin Anderson with 1241 Justin Thornton with 1109 Girls’ Blue Jay Hockey by Mackenzie Leroux The Bluejay girls were met in Jamestown by Minot on January 27, where they lost a tough game 6-0. That Saturday, the game against Wil- liston was a close game until the Coyotes took the lead in the third period and won 2-1. Jamestown traveled to Mandan for their last away game and were ahead for the first two periods. They fell behind in the third as Man- dan scored two goals, and the Jays were not able to come back, leading to another 2-1 loss. On February 10, the girls played Dickinson where they broke their losing streak and beat the Midgets 4-1. On Thursday, the Bluejays hosted their senior night to honor their four seniors: Jade Schafer, Nate Rodriguez (photo by Duttons Valley Gallery) Haley Hillstrom, Elly Milender and Haley Schnaidt. The game was played against Devils Lake, and the Bluejays were down 2-0 going into the third. Boys’ Hockey With less than 5 minutes left of the game, a senior from Jamestown scored by Sam Jenson a goal changing the atmosphere of the arena. The team scored three goals The Jamestown Blue Jays boys’ that period, winning the game, and every senior had a goal or an assist. hockey team’s season has come to The last game was held on February 16, Jamestown played West Fargo and an end. They finished the year with ended their season with a 5-0 loss. a 8-8 record in the WDA, and a 9-14 overall record. The Jays went into the WDA tournament as the five seed hoping to finish in the top four in the tournament to advance to the state tournament. The Blue Jays dropped the cru- cial first game to the Dickinson Midgets by a score of 6-2. After the first period, the Jays were tied with the Midgets 2-2. A four goal second period propelled Dickinson to the semifinals and sent James- town to the consolation bracket. Jamestown was put into a loser out game against Williston for a chance to make it to a state-qualifier game. The Blue Jays fell to the Coyotes of Williston 3-2 to put an end to their Dakota Rose Floral season. The Jays were plagued by 1125 W. Main penalties against Williston, the Jays spent more than 30 minutes of the (701)845-3291 game in the penalty box. Junior Bryce Nelson said, “We can’t win games when we’re in the box.” Sports 10 The Bridges February 28, 2017 National Signing Day at VCHS Hi-Liner National Signing Day took place on February 1, 2017. Three VCHS football players have committed to play in the area. Levi Nix and Drew Jacobson will don the cardinal red for the Valley City State University Vikings. Justin Manson has opted to suit up for the University of Boys’ Jamestown Jimmies, and Maren Gullickson will be heading north to serve up some volleyball at Lake Region State College in Devils Lake. Basketball by Matt Brandvold Fargo South came to Valley for the final regular season game of the year. The Bruins and Hi- Liners were battling back and forth. The Bruins pulled away though by a score of 78-71. The boys traveled to Grand Forks on Tuesday, Feb. 21 to take on the Grand Forks Central Knights. The Hi-Liners were in control most of the night leading at halftime 28-19, but the second half was a different story with Central battling back to beat the Hi-Liners 61-53. Tyler Jacobson, Drew Jacobson, Darla Jacobson, VCHS Coach Roeh- Ron Manson, Justin Manson, Heather Manson, and VCHS Coach Roeh- Valley City traveled to Devils rich, and VCSU Coach McCulloch. (photo by E. Wagar) rich. (photo by E. Wagar) Lake to face a Firebird team that they lost to on the 10th. It was the same story in Devils Lake on Saturday the Hi-liners lost by the score of 71-59. The number one team came to town on Thursday Feb. 16 and let the Hi-liners have it. Davies led the whole game and finished by the score of 89-54. The Liners traveled to Fargo North to attempt revenge for the Jan 16 loss. The Hi-Liners still couldn’t get it done as they fell to the Spartans by the score of 71-60. Devils Lake came to the City of Bridges to take on the Hi-Lin- Levi Nix, Mike Nix, VCHS Coach Roehrich, and VCSU Coach McCulloch. ers. The Hi-Liners struggled to Teri Gullickson, Coach Taylor, Maren Gullickson, and Chad Gullickson. (photo by M. Bratrud) (photo by M. Bratrud) get it in the hoop. The Firebirds led the whole game ending the game with a final score of 71-60. On Feb. 8 the team traveled Super Bowl LI is historical to West Fargo. The Hi-Liners by Cole McGough most conference championships; in the AFL. The AFL had been a played a hard fought matchup Over 70,800 people attended one however, the Pittsburgh Steelers league for seven years during the but fell hard to the Packers 102- of the greatest Super Bowls of all still hold the most Super Bowl wins ‘66 season and was going to join 78. time. Super Bowl LI was one for with six. The Falcons remain at zero the NFL after the 1969 season. The The Hi-Liner boys basketball the books. It was a battle between Super Bowls victories. Their team league consisted of ten teams the team played West Fargo Shey- the National Football Conference is full of very young, incredible tal- Houston Oilers, New York Titans ene on Fiday Feb 3 in the HAC. (NFC) champions, Atlanta Falcons ent, and the future for the Falcons (Jets), Cincinnati Bengals, Dallas The Hi-Liners had a tough night and the American Football Confer- is still very bright. Many historical Texans (Kansas City Chiefs), Den- falling to the Mustangs 90-64. ence (AFC) champions, New Eng- moments were made in Super Bowl ver Broncos, San Diego Chargers, land Patriots. LI. It won’t be forgotten. Maimi Dolphins, Buffalo Bills, The game consisted of the Fal- Boston Patriots, and the Oakland cons completely dominating the ...more history Raiders. Battle of the Beards first half 21-3. However the Patri- The Pittsburgh Steelers have the ots found a way to come back in by Matt Brandvold most Super Bowl wins in NFL his- the second half and tie the game at The trophy that is played for in tory with six wins, but are tied with 28. The game went into overtime; the Super Bowl is the Lombardi the Cowboys for most apperances the Patriots got the ball first, drove Trophy named after Vince Lombar- with eight. The Bills, and Vikings down the field and scored, becom- di who won the first Super Bowl. have been to four Super Bowls and ing Super Bowl LI champions. Superbowl I took place on Jan. have never won one. The Browns, The game was held in Houston, 15, 1967 in Los Angeles, Califor- Texans, Lions, and Jaguars have Texas at NRG Stadium. Lady Gaga nia. The NFL (National Football never made it to the Superbowl. performed many of her greatest hits League) Champions Green Bay The first indoor Super Bowl was during the half-time show. This was Packers met the AFL (American 1978 between the Dallas Cowboys the first Super Bowl to ever enter Football League) Champions Kan- and the Denver Broncos. The Cow- overtime. Tom Brady made history sas City Chiefs. The Packers won boys won 27-10. Last year Peyton by winning his fifth Super Bowl. by a jolting 25 points. The Pack- Manning and Tom Brady are the Along with Brady, Coach Bill ers were coached by the legendary oldest players (39) to win a Super Word in the halls is that these two instructors both think they sport Belichick also won his fifth, all of Vince Lombardi who led the Pack- Bowl, while Jamal Lewis was the the best beard. We’ll let you decide VCHS. If you’d like to vote which were with Brady. Brady also ers to five NFL Championships and youngest at 21. With his last win in for the best beard, drop by Mrs. Wagar’s classroom, Room 103 and won his fourth Super Bowl MVP the first two Super Bowl titles. Super Bowl 51 Tom Brady has the cast your vote March 6-10. We’ll announce the voting results in the award. The Patriots have won the The Kansas City Chiefs were most rings with five and his coach Bill Belichick is the only coach March Bridges. with five. One of the key factors in watch- ing the Super Bowl is not the game but rather the commercials. Commercials during the game in 1962 cost $42,000 for 30 seconds of fame. In 2016 a 30 second commercial cost was around $4.5 to more than $5 million dollars. VCHS has one of its own Super Bowl commercial stars in Levi Nix, who was in a Sanford Health commercial in 2010. This & That 11 The Bridges February 28, 2017 Remembering David On January 30, Valley City everyone left after it was over and Once A Hi-Liner, Always a Hi-Liner High School was notified that as I picked up all of the equipment, basketball, and swimming teams. One memory that sticks out in my it. David danced the whole time David Lynch, a freshman, had I noticed that David was walking He was the goalie for his Special mind about David is the night at we were there and he was just so passed away at Mercy Hospi- around the field picking up balls. I Olympics team, which took home State Soccer. After the first day of happy. By the end of the night tal. His memorial took place on told him I could do it and that he 2nd place at the state tournament. games there is a dance that night, David was covered in sweat, and February 2 at 7:00 in the theater, could leave, but he just shook his He will be remembered for his con- and David and everybody else on it was impossible to wipe the where over two hundred and fifty head and carried every ball over to stant smiles, and love of hugs. the team was very excited about smile off his face.” people came to celebrate David’s the shack. As I locked it up, he told His soccer coach, Tyler Gus- life. The service included having me goodbye and to have a good tafson, remembers the fun he had a microphone passed around to day, and for the rest of the sum- while playing his sports, “I was anyone who wanted to share how mer, David did not let me clean up blessed to meet David through Spe- David touched their lives. alone.” cial Olympics Soccer. Together we Mackenzie Leroux, who David was a very lively stu- shared many memories and those coached David, shared this mem- dent who loved playing sports and memories I will cherish forever. ory, “On the first day of softball, showed talent in his softball, soccer

David and his soccer team.

David and Sam Ihry leading the entrance of the girls’ basketball team.

David and Superintendent Johnson David and his softball team. Jr. High qualifies five for All State by Matt Brandvold Junior High All State Choir was held Febuary 1-3. VCHS had five participants. Jonathan Redfearn, Elizabeth Gazeley, Sydney Nelson, Talia Germann, and Haley Dalgliesh were all honored. This is not an easy process. Each contestent has to learn and record a two minute ART solo and sing “America” accapela in that recording. The recordings are sent to the North Dakota American Choir Directors Association and they judge the con- testants. There were 700 auditions sent in from 54 schools and they choose the best Jr. High All State Choir Participants sopranos, altos, tenors, and basses. There are 90 students chosen from the 700 that from VCHS: Front(L-R) Haley Dalgliesh, Elizabeth Gazeley, Jonathan Redfearn, are put into a 100 piece mixed choir, and a 90 piece women’s choir. The participants Sydney Nelson, Talia Germann. Back: are sent to Fargo to join the other selections to sing at NDSU on Feb. 3 and 4 with a VCHS Choir Director Sheila Zinke. guest conductor to sing in a Show Case Concert and were featured in a Gala Concert. (photo submitted)

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Find your North Dakota Community College: ndcommunitycolleges.info/vchs This & That 12 The Bridges February 28, 2017 by Libby Borg VCHS Speechletes hope to repeat as EDC Champs The Valley City speech team is continuing the season with success. POETRY The team traveled to Fargo South by Brelynn Komrosky High School on Saturday, February My dreams are caught by the 18th. Out of fourteen teams, Valley dream catcher in the sky. City took first in the team sweep- Far too out of my reach to un- stakes with a score of 125 points. tangle them. Tied for second place were West Nightmares it lets by. Fargo and West Fargo Sheyenne. My dream catcher in the sky. Individual results: Dreams where I can fly, Radio Broadcasting: are left to die. 7th: Eliza Johnson My dream catcher in the sky. Poetry: Dreaming is a lie. 3rd: Rose Marcellus Do you know how I can tell? Top Novice: Lily Kiefert Because all my dreams so far Speech to Persuade: have fell. 2nd: Abby Slyter My dream catcher in the sky. 4th: Sharon Michael I want to chase dreams on a 5th: Jacob Berntson unicorn’s back, but that just 6th: Rebecca Montecuollo wouldn’t be fact. Humorous Duo: What I lack, my dream catcher in the sky, 2nd: Erik Johnson and Mikey VCHS Speech Team at Fargo South. In individual scores: is an inner gleam. Meester 8th: Sharon Michael City took first place in the team Poetry: I’m not a princess going to be 6th: Elizabeth Gazelely and Katy Impromptu: sweepstakes with a score of 180 2nd: Rose Marcellus saved. Meester 3rd: Abby Slyter points. Second place was Rugby Humorous Duo: Is there a yellow brick road Dramatic Interpretation: Speech to Inform: with 70 points closely followed by 2nd: Mikey Meester and Erik John- paved? 1st place: Rose Marcellus 2nd: Jacob Berntson Jamestown with 64 points. son, qualified for State with A/B I need something to follow. 3rd place: Maggie Oberlander 3rd: Erik Johnson In individual results: split Dream catcher in the sky. Superior Speaker: Abby Slyter Poetry: Humorous Duo: 6th: Libby and Rachel Borg Quick before pity I wallow. Speech to Entertain: 1st: Rose Marcellus- qualified for 1st: Mikey Meester and Erik John- 8th: Olivia Slyter and Sophia Boe How do I fix my dream catcher 7th: Rebecca Montecuollo state son- State qualified Serious Interpretation: in shambles? 8th: Katy Meester The team traveled to Mandan 3rd: Rachel and Libby Borg Top Novice-Olivia Slyter My hopes and wants I gamble. EPR: High School on Saturday, Febru- 4th: Jack Jordan and David Opdahl Serious Duo: Dream catcher in the sky? 2nd: Abby Slyter ary 11. 5th: Sophie Boe and Olivia Slyter 2nd: Mikey Meester and Abby Maybe I could fly. 4th: Maggie Oberlander In team sweepstakes, VCHS Serious Duo: Slyter, qualified for State with A/B Sure maybe only in dreams, Impromptu Speaking: placed first with 150 points, fol- 1st: Mikey Meester and Abby split. But a great man did so too. 6th: Erik Johnson lowed by Dickinson with 75 points, Slyter 8th: Maggie Oberlander and Eliza So I have a dream, Serious Duo: and Jamestown with 72 points. 6th: Maggie Oberlander and Eliza Johnson That just could be. 3rd: Maggie Oberlander and Eliza Individual results: Johnson Dramatic Interpretation: Dream catcher in the sky. Johnson Serious Interpretation: Top Novice: Tucker Schonert and 1st: Rose Marcellus If a dream or so perish. 5th: Mikey Meester and Abby 1st: Abby Slyter- qualified for State Madi Klabo 3rd: Abby Slyter Many more there is to cherish. Slyter 5th: David Opdahl Speech to Persuade: 8th: Maggie Oberlander 6th: Dylan Quick and Olivia Slyter Superior Speaker: Mikey Meester 2nd: Libby Borg- qualified for Speech to Entertain: Speech to Inform: Humorous Interpretation: Top Novice: Katy Meester state with A/B Split 1st: Rachel Borg, qualified for 5th: Sharon Michael 6th: Maggie Oberlander Humorous Interpretation: 4th: Jacob Berntson State. 8th: Jacob Berntson 8th: Dylan Quick Superior Speaker: Eliza Johnson 6th: Rebecca Montecuollo 3rd: Rebecca Montecuollo Program of Oral Interpretation Speech to Inform: Dramatic Interpretation: Speech to Entertain: Top Novice: Dylan Quick (POI): 3rd: Erik Johnson 1st : Rose Marcellus- State quali- 6th: Rebecca Montecuollo Impromptu Speaking: 2nd: Maggie Oberlander 8th: Jacob Berntson fied 7th: Dylan Quick 2nd: Erik Johnson, qualified for Extemp: Serious Interpretation: 2nd : Maggie Oberlander Top Novice: Katy Meester State with A/B split 3rd: Libby Borg: 1st: Abby Slyter 5th: Monesha Terry Serious Interpretation: 4th: Abby Slyter 8th: Sharon Michael 3rd: Mikey Meester Top Novice: Lilly Kiefert 1st: Abbey Slyter-qualified for Storytelling: Speech to Persuade: 6th: Monisha Terry Speech to Persuade: state 5th: Mikey Meester 2nd: Sharon Michael, qualifying On Friday, February 17th, the 2nd: Libby Borg 2nd: Mikey Meester EPR: for state with A/B split team traveled to West Fargo High 5th : Jacob Berntson 4th: David Opdahl 2nd: Abby Slyter 4th: Rose Marcellus School. VCHS won the team EPR: Impromptu Speaking: 4th: Maggie Oberlander 5th: Erik Johnson sweepstakes with a score of 137 2nd: Abby Slyter 2nd: Erik Johnson – qualified for points followed by West Fargo 4th: Maggie Oberlander State with A/B split Sheyenne with 82 points and Dev- Poetry Interpretation: 5th: Abby Slyter il’s Lake with 78 points. 1st: Rose Marcellus-qualified for Speech to inform: In individual results: State with perfect scores 3rd: Erik Johnson Different after-death beliefs Humorous Duo: 5th: Tanaya Leifson 4th: Jacob Berntson by Annie Fitzell 4th: Mikey Meester and Erik John- Serious Duo: Dramatic: Death is slowly impending on everyone, or not so slowly. Any one of us son 1st: David Opdahl and Tanaya Lei- 1st: Rose Marcellus- qualified for could be gone tomorrow with the snap of a finger. That begs the question Serious Interpretation: fson State of what happens after we bite the dust? Everyone has pondered this at one 1st: Abby Slyter- qualified for state 2nd: Mikey Meester and Abby 3rd: Maggie Oberlander time or another. Do we just cease to exist? Do we continue to go on living 2nd: Mikey Meester Slyter 7th: Abby Slyter in another world? What? The clock that ticks towards the inevitable day EPR: 3rd: Maggie Oberlander and Eliza Radio Broadcasting: can make people afraid of what waits for them on the other side. Here are 4th: Eliza Johnson Johnson 4th: Eliza Johnson some possibilities to consider. 8th: Maggie Oberlander Extemp: Extemp: 1. Nothing. Try to remember back to before you were born. Nothing is Speech to Entertain: 5th: Libby Borg 2nd: Libby Borg- qualified for there. The same applies after death. Your soul doesn’t go anywhere. You 4th: Rachel Borg Superior Speaker: Sharon Michael State with A/B split just stop thinking and feeling. 6th: Rebecca Montecuollo Speech to Entertain: Humorous Interpretation: 2. Heaven and Hell. Most people are familiar with the perception of 7th: Katy Meester 4th: Rachel Borg 3rd: Maggie Oberlander Heaven and Hell. Doing good things and being a good person in general Dramatic Interpretation: 7th: Katy Meester Storytelling: will guarantee you a ticket to the pearly gates where you will spend for- 1st: Rose Marcellus- qualified for Storytelling: 4th: Mikey Meester ever in paradise. If you have been a generally bad person, however, you state Top Novice: Elizabeth Gazelely Top Novice: Dylan Quick go to Hell for an eternity of suffering and torture. 4th: Monisha Terry Speech to Inform: EPR: 3. Heaven, no Hell. Some people believe Hell doesn’t really exist. If 6th: Maggie Oberlander 1st: Erik Johnson- State Qualified 1st: Abby Slyter-qualified for State you’re meant to go to Heaven, you go to Heaven. If you aren’t, you’re Top Novice: Lily Kiefert 5th: Jacob Berntson 7th: Maggie Oberlander merely dead forever. Serious Duo: Humerous Duo: 8th: Shyenne Gwilliams 4. Angels. When we die, we don’t just spend all of eternity happy in 2nd: Mikey Meester and Abby 1st place: Mikey Meester and Erik Poetry: Heaven. We are also transformed into angels so we can watch over those Slyter Johnson 1st: Rose Marcellus-qualified for still living. 5th: Eliza Johnson and Maggie 5th: David Opdahl and Jack Jordan State 5. Rapture. With the second coming of Jesus, believers both dead and Oberlander Superior Speakers: Katy Meester 4th: Tanaya Leifson alive (the dead are resurrected) are lifted from the Earth and sent to God 6th: Dylan Quick and Olivia Slyter and Elizabeth Gazelely 7th: Morgan Jenner while any non-believers must remain on Earth. Top Novice: Tucker Schonert and Superior Speakers:Rachel and Lib- Top Novice: Olivia Slyter 6. Reincarnation. We have lived before and we will live again. When Madi Klabo by Borg On Saturday, January 28 the we die, only our bodies die. However, our souls are reborn into a different Radio Broadcasting: Top Novices: Dylan Quick and team traveled to North Sargent body. Some believe if you led your previous life as a good person you will 3rd: Eliza Johnson Luke Plagens High School for their second meet be reincarnated as a person once again. However, if your previous life Speech to Persuade: Impromptu Speaking: of the year. The team did very well, was full of hatred and bad deeds, you will return as something unfavor- 1st: Jacob Berntson- qualified for 3rd: Erik Johnson placing second out of 15 teams in able such as a beetle. Other people believe everyone is reincarnated as a state 4th: Tanaya Leifson the team sweepstakes with a score person, but, in this life, they will be the victim of their past crimes. If they 5th: Rose Marcellus On Saturday, February 4, the of 131 points. Enderlin-Maple had once murdered someone, then they are to be murdered. 8th: Rebecca Montecuollo team traveled to Devils Lake. Of Valley won the sweepstake with a What do you think? Extemp: the 15 teams in attendance, Valley score of 195 points. This & That 13 The Bridges February 28, 2017 trump nominates Gorsuch VCHS Small Group Contest Ensembles Serenade the Judges by David Opdahl by David Opdahl On February 21, 2017, President Trump—mustering all of his show- On Wednesday, February 15, several VCHS students loaded onto two buses to head to Fargo for a day of judg- biz fanfare that he honed during his Apprentice years—announced that he ment. Eleven groups went to play songs that they had rehearsed for hours on end, hoping to learn a thing or two would nominate Neil Gorsuch to fill the final seat in the supreme court. The from the judges. The rankings go as follows from worst to best: Non Rating (NR), 3, 2, 1, Region Star (RS), and only thing that seemed to be missing from his announcement was a drum- State Star (SS). These are the results for the groups and the songs that they performed. roll. But what Brass Ensemble (Senior); Breana Buringrud, Jacob Sand, David Opdahl, Jack Jordan, Tiffany Schneider, and does all this Erik Johnson; “Sourwood Mountain”; SS. mean? What Clarinet Duet; Eliza Johnson and Rachel Couture; “King William’s March”; RS. does this nomi- Flute Ensemble; Tanaya Leifson, Megan Roswick, Christina Sayler, Samantha Nelson, Makayla Nehlich, Au- nation foretell rora Faucett, Makaelyn Lorenz, and Brooke Ask; “Ashokan Farewell”; 1. for the future? Trumpet Quartet; Allysen Mathias, Austin Rogelstad, Max Kupitz, and Cara VanBruggen; “Intrada and Inter- First let’s look mezzo”; 1. at why the seat Mixed Woodwind Duet; Tanaya Leifson and Ashton Schonert; “Overture to The Magic Flute”; 2. was vacant. Brass Ensemble (Varsity); Hale Kringlie, Blake Hagen, Nick Pfeifer, Nick Dilts, Alyssa Hatcher, Nathan El- In 1986, dridge, Braylen Bruns, and David Peterson; “Passamezzo Brillante”; 1. President Rea- Saxophone Trio; Christian Hanson, Lexi Nelson, and Erin Anderson, accompanied by Erik Johnson; “Triad”; 2. gan nominated Antonin Scalia to the Supreme Court. After nearly thirty Saxophone Quintet A; Presley Curtis, Lexi Triebold, Bennet Rogelstad, Alexa Klein, Trevan Pfennig, and So- years of service, Judge Scalia passed away on February 13, 2016. When a phie Boe; “Pizza Party”; 1. position in the Supreme Court is left vacant, it is the President’s job to fill Saxophone Quintet B; Lexi Ondracek, Mackenzie Leroux, Jenessa Noeske, Hannah Dockter, and Angela Lar- that seat with a nominee, which the Senate must then approve with a 60- son; “Marche Militaire”; 2. vote majority. On March 16, President Obama nominated Merrick Garland Saxophone Quartet; Taylor Johnson, Lexi Ondracek, Jenessa Noeske, and Angela Larson; “Irish Suite”; RS. to the Court. However, Senate Republicans, under the leadership of Sen- Trombone Duet; Heather Fischer and Ethan Jenner; “Intrada”; 2. ate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell, announced that they would hold, “no hearings, no votes, no actions whatsoever,” arguing that, because it was an election year, the next president should be allowed to select the Snow week snaps next Supreme Court nominee. Since 1900, the Senate has voted on eight SCOTUS nominees in an election year. Six were approved and two were rejected, but never in the history of the United States has a party refused to hold hearings for a nominee. Garland’s nomination expired on January 3, 2017, with the arrival of the new Congress. This left Democrats furious and in shock. Senator McConnell played a bold move, and it may have paid off ‘big-league’. The fight is far from over. Judge Gorsuch needs 60 senatorial votes to be approved to the Court. The current numbers are 52 Republicans to 48 Democrats. Assuming that all Republicans vote for Gorsuch’s nomination, they will still need a minimum of eight Democratic votes, something that will be very hard to get after the stinging move from the previous year. Now let’s look at who Gorsuch is. Neil McGill Gorsuch, 49, born in Denver, Colorado, has been described as an intellectual, his writings as “charming, witty, and clever.” He earned his Bachelor of Arts from Columbia University, his Juris Doctor from Harvard Law School, and Doctor of Philosophy from University College, Oxford. At Harvard, Gorsuch and President Obama were classmates. Gor- such was nominated by President George W. Bush on May 10, 2006 for the Tenth Circuit Court of Appeals, one of eleven other judges that preside over the states of Wyoming, Colorado, Utah, New Mexico, Kansas and Oklahoma. If approved, Gorsuch would be one of the most conservative judges on the Court.

Annie’s Antics by Annie Fitzell