Tech tips Yearbook help students The staff head- avoid prob- ing toward lems that final dead- could affect lines to pub- their work lish Talons Page 2 QuillMon., March 22, 2021 Vol. 57, No. 6 Page 3 Robbinsdale Cooper High School chs.rdale.org/the-quill 8230 47th Ave. N., New Hope, MN 55428

ALSO INSIDE While many students are News HAWKS RETURN TO COOPER headed back to the build- ing, others have elected to FOLLOWING SPRING BREAK remain in distance learning received from the meet- ings about the model shift was that distance learning students wanted to remain Sophomores finish with their current teachers. Personal Projects According to Burrage, the district was able to honor Although the projects this request by offering a were deemed optional concurrent teaching mod- this year due to dis- el. In other words, students tance learning, many who are in the building, and Hawks still decided to students who are remaining take on the challenge in distance learning, will be taught by the same teacher Page 2 at the same time. Students returning to the building must follow Opinion safety protocols, such as wearing a mask, social dis- tancing and washing hands frequently. Adding to the safety issue is that a large number of staff members in the Robbinsdale Area School District have been vaccinated, and the remain- Climate accord ing staff members who have provides hope not received the COVID Photo by DOMINIQUE WILLIS vaccine yet are projected to President Biden's deci- have at least their first dose sion to rejoin the inter- Many students will be seeing the Cooper sign at the school's entrance in person for the first time beginning on April 6. by the beginning of April. national climate agree- By MAX REKELA-JASPER plan introduced on February back to the same buildings, team of health experts.” Given the fact that this ment was an important Quill staff writer 3 that would have seen high either in a hybrid learning For students who want school year has been any- step in addressing an school students returning on model, or a full in-person to remain in a full-time vir- thing but normal, Cooper ever-growing crisis Robbinsdale District a hybrid model with only 50 model, beginning March 9. tual learning environment, Head Principal Mr. Herman Page 4 281 will be moving to the percent of students in the “[We] had several Distance Learning Plus is and other staff members are long-awaited, in-person building on any given day. meetings with various stake- still an option. Families excited for the return of stu- learning model for high Prompting this change was holders, including families, were required to send an dents. school students. Starting a February 17 decision by district staff and school ad- email to the district to sign “I am looking forward Variety on April 8, all students Minnesota Governor Tim ministrative teams,” Robbin- up for distance learning due to reconnecting with stu- in grades 9-12 who have Walz to update the Minne- sdale Interim Superintendent to the state requirement that dents and meeting many elected to do so will tran- sota Safe Learning Plan. Dr. Burrage said. “After requests are made in writ- ninth graders in person for sition into full, in-person The announcement stated gathering feedback, the In- ing. The deadline for sign- the first time,” Herman said. learning. that school districts would cident Command Team dis- ing up was March 12. Herman also said stu- This decision, an- no longer be required to cussed the recommendations For students opting to nounced on February 26, have rolling start dates and and we have also reviewed stay home, the most com- HAWKS RETURN was a shift from a previous could instead bring students our plan with our regional mon feedback the district continues on page 8 MLB The Show is baseball bliss School staff gets vaccinated against COVID The latest installment in the ongoing series does The addition of K-12 educators to the state's vaccine priority list has made it possible for Cooper's staff to obtain shots before the return of students an ample job of giving gamers an often realis- By SANDY VUE tic experience of play- Quill staff writer ing professional ball COVID vaccination opportunities have been presented to Cooper Page 7 teachers and staff members to prepare them for the start of in-person learning on April 6. “From the current research, those who are vaccinated have very low chances to get the virus and or getting the serious illness characteristics Variety that come with COVID-19,” Cooper Head Principal Mr. Herman said. For the entire state of Minnesota, approximately 60,000 doses of the vaccine are received each week. At this point in the state vaccination pro- cess, the available doses are being administered to health care workers, long-term health care workers, older people and individuals in priority groups, which includes adults working in K-12 education. Currently, teachers, school staff members and childcare workers add up to 250,000 people in the state of Minnesota. While there are not yet enough vaccinations for every educator, school staff member and child- Ghost is haunting care worker in the state, Minnesota Governor Tim Walz is continuing to sequel to Power acquire and provide more doses for Minnesotans in these groups. Photo by MR. ZUCCOLA “It would be great to be able to get all those that want the vaccina- Vaccine recipients receive a card from the CDC detailing the date of their shot. Power Book II: Ghost, tion to be able to get it,” Herman, who said has been fortunate enough to which debuted in Sep- receive the vaccination, added. members to receive the vaccine on a first-come, first-served basis when tember 2020, features One tool the state has been using to get educators vaccinated came extra doses became available. Then, during February, Robbinsdale staff the further adventures from the Minnesota Department of Education (MDE). The MDE initial- members had an additional chance to sign up for a new contact list if an of many characters ly shared information in January with educators across the state about opening occurs to receive the vaccination. from the original series the COVID-19 Vaccine Pilot Program, through which educators could English teacher Ms. Eisfelder is one of the Cooper staff members find information on vaccination locations and sign up for the vaccina- Page 8 tion waitlist. Also in January were some opportunities for school staff STAFF VACCINATED continues on page 2

Sports Seven Dreams Foundation raises funds for district schools The group's annual Bird Bash event, which took place on February 11, gathered more than $50,000 in donations

By ANDREA TRIBBLE for students, which makes it possible for many in,” Herman said. Quill staff writer students to be present during distance learning. The hands-on learning grants are arguably In fact, the group specifically donated $16,802 one of the Seven Dreams Foundation’s most no- The Seven Dreams Foundation supports to fund 70 hotspots during the 2020-2021 school ticeable contributions. Teachers are able to submit Cooper and other Robbinsdale district schools year. According to Head Principal Mr. Herman, a project idea that supports hands-on learning and Esports squad with hands-on learning grants, district-wide ini- this technology support is just one example of encourages critical thinking to be considered by preps for season tiatives, teacher and staff appreciation gifts, food the ways in which Cooper has benefited for the the foundation’s committee. The committee then shelves, and many more helpful programs that foundation’s education initiatives. reviews the application and evaluates if it meets Cooper players are pre- keep students engaged in constructive activities. “We have been very fortunate in that several the requirements. If everything is approved, that paring to take on area The group just held its eighth annual Bird Bash teachers have written for hands-on grants for their project can receive a funding prize that ranges from rivals in the game Rocket event on February 11, which helped raise more classrooms. This has included the purchase of equip- $500 to $2,000. The grant money can be used to League as part of their in- than $50,000 in funds for the various activities ment, materials, field trips and other items that have cover any cost associated with the project and is augural season in the Min- the organization supports. been requested over the years. At Cooper, we also available to any Robbinsdale Area Schools staff nesota Varsity League The Seven Dreams Foundation has played were the recipients of being able to purchase new member who gets approved. a major role in supporting the Robbinsdale furniture for our Media Center. This allowed us to Page 9 School District during distance learning by get new updated furniture that was more conducive SEVEN DREAMS providing funding to purchase Wi-Fi hotspots to learning and having a comfortable space to be continues on page 2 Page 2, The Quill News March 22, 2021 STAFF VACCINATED continued from page 1 Tech tips help Hawks stay on top of school who has been vaccinated. “I received an email from With classes being delivered both in person and virtually, it is important for students to make sure their devices are working the district that vaccines were available at a local hospital on a Meet or Zoom and doing the class- first-come, first-served basis, so I work on the Chromebook at the took a chance and went there and same time. Some additional fixes stood in line for a few hours and are restarting your Chromebook or got it,” she said. restarting your router or modem. Eisfelder received the Pfiz- Of course, if you have multiple er vaccine and feels fortunate to family members using the internet receive the vaccine early and be at the same time, that can also af- able to slowly move on to the fect connection speeds, so you may next phase of the pandemic life. want to see if there is any way oth- “I hope communities and ed- er people in your home can back ucation leaders see the whole pic- out of the internet. ture of what public school teach- ers across the country provide, Dealing with Schoology issues aside from quality education, and With Schoology serving as the make serious efforts to reform and main way that students receive and support the teachers, the learners submit most of their classwork, it is and the families that make up this not surprising that many technical system the public relies on for so issues can be related to this pro- many things,” she said. gram, whether it is problems with Also getting vaccinated loading, processing speed or work- was AVID and physical educa- ing with materials. Keep in mind tion teacher Ms. Schaffer, who that Schoology does have a status received her shots at Children’s monitor that can let you know if Hospital in south Minneapolis. there are any larger issues with that “I only live about 10 minutes program. If the status is listed as from there, so I figured I would “Operational,” the problem is like- give it a chance, and I was one of Photo by DAVINA BELLINGER ly on your end. If the status is listed the lucky people who was able to as “Active Incident” or “Degraded Most students are utilizing the school-issued Chromebooks when completing work for their classes. receive it that day,” Schaffer said. Performance,” the problem is on Much like Eisfelder, Schaf- By MAJAY MURPHY of the windows. When you see two the Cooper Media Center for sup- Schoology’s end. fer was vaccinated with the Pfizer Quill staff writer arrows appear, one on either side of port at 763-504-8511 or fill out a The first thing to make sure vaccine and had minor symptoms the box, you should then click on “DL Technology Support Request you do if Schoology is acting up is like a headache and soreness. She The pandemic has forced stu- one to arrange that window on that Form,” links for which are avail- to wait for the page to fully load, said she feels blessed to have the dents and teachers to rely more side. able to all students on Schoology. which you can tell has happened vaccine and it has calmed her heavily than ever on technology You will then repeat this pro- when the circle on the tab stops anxiety about being around a lot in order to do their work. Even cess for the other window, but click Addressing unresponsive or slow spinning. Another solution is to of people in a small space. though many students are choosing the arrow on the opposite side so programs refresh or restart your Chrome “I’m hoping all of my col- to return to Cooper for the start of that each tab occupies a different Having multiple programs browser. If that does not work, try leagues have the opportunity to in-person learning, most classes side of the screen. This will evenly running and tabs open at the same logging out of Schoology and then get vaccinated if they wish to will still rely on the use of Chrome- split the two windows. time may cause your computer to logging back into Schoology. Fi- prior to coming back,” Schaffer books and laptops as people com- If you want to make one win- lag. The first solution is to close nally, restarting your Chromebook said. plete their work. In order to make dow slightly larger than the other, any extra programs you have run- can be another way to address pos- For educators and people in the use of technology as smooth as just hover your cursor over the mid- ning or tabs you have open. If that sible Schoology issues. priority groups who are still wait- possible when taking care of their dle of the boundary until you see a does not help the responsiveness ing to get vaccinated, the MDE assignments, there are a number of small icon with arrows pointing of the program you need, you can Trying to use Kami reports that the state will contin- tips students can follow in order to right and left. Next, click and drag close out of all programs and at- Kami is an extension that is ue to vaccinate people through perform at their best. that icon whichever direction you tempt to restart the one you need. used for opening, seeing and sub- the COVID-19 Community Vac- want to change the sizing of the Should that not work, restarting the mitting assignments online. For cination Program. Hy-Vee and Splitting your Chromebook split panes. You can always exit this Chromebook is the next possible students who are not using a dis- pharmacy locations are giving screen mode by clicking on the “x” in the solution. The final move is to con- trict Chromebook, you first need to vaccinations for people older It is sometimes helpful to split top right or by clicking and holding tact the Media Center or fill out the download the Kami extension for than 65 in Minnesota, while vac- your screen so you can see a Goo- on the square icon to resume to full- technical support form mentioned Chrome. Students using a district cines for school and child care gle Meet and a Google Doc at the screen windows. earlier. Chromebook will already have ac- staff under age 65 are offered at same time while working in class. cess to Kami. state-run sites in places like Min- In order to have both windows open Fixing a frozen screen Correcting a slow or lagging in- When having issues using neapolis and Bloomington. at the same time, you can begin by If you have a frozen screen, ternet connection Kami to work on assignments, you Moving forward, Hennepin opening a browser window on your all you have to do is restart your As is the case with unrespon- first need to wait for the Schoolo- County Public Health (HCPH) Chromebook and then opening a computer. To do this, just hold sive or slow programs, a lagging gy page you are using to open and recently introduced a COVID-19 second tab in that window. Next, your power button down for up to internet connection can be fixed fully load. Next, you want to click Vaccination Registration system you can click on one of the tabs 30 seconds. If that does not work, by closing any extra programs you on the Kami button in Schoology that is available to K-12 staff and and drag it apart from the first, or your issue might be related to the have running or tabs you have open. itself to access the document you bus drivers. This system allows you can simply open a second win- battery. In this case, plug in your Another solution many students the HCPH to be able to inform dow. After that, click and hold on Chromebook and try to recharge it. have tried is using their smartphone TECH TIPS staff members on their eligibility the box icon in the top right of one If that does not work, you can call to access the class through Google continues on page 10 and vaccine availability. In ad- dition, educators will be able to seek vaccines at local pharmacies outside of the state-run vaccina- Students wrapping up work on Personal Projects tion sites. “Hy-Vee Pharmacy has Although the projects were deemed optional this year due to distance learning, many Hawks still decided to take on the challenge partnered with the Centers for By CHRISTOPHER NGUYEN Although she has enjoyed the Disease Control and Prevention Quill staff writer project, Ranstrom said the realities (CDC) to provide the COVID-19 of distance learning have made the vaccine, and they are now able to This is the time of year when process more difficult. vaccinate Pre-K-12 teachers and most Cooper sophomores are usually “Doing the Personal Project childcare workers at their retail completing their Personal Projects while stuck at home and doing online pharmacy locations in Minneso- as part of the International Bacca- school because of COVID has defi- ta,” Robbinsdale Interim Assis- laureate (IB) Middle Years Program nitely not made it easier. Also, since tant Superintendent and District (MYP). However, the annual process it’s a long-term project, it is hard to COVID Coordinator Ms. Voight looks different this year in light of organize your time throughout the said. distance learning. entire process to make sure you meet With all of the vaccination “The Personal Project is the deadlines and stay on track,” she said. options now available to Cooper capstone project of the IB Middle At the same time, Ranstrom staff, Herman said he is excited Years Program, and completion said one element that has helped her for everyone to return on April 6. of the project is an expectation the through the process has been her “We have been planning on school has for all incoming tenth mentor, AVID and physical education what this may look like and get- grade students,” IB Coordinator Ms. teacher Ms. Schaffer. ting ready for this to happen in a Christensen said. “However, due “It gives me an excuse to meet way for our community to feel Photo by MS. CHRISTENSEN to distance learning, it was decided up with one of my favorite old safe as well as ready to learn,” Alia Hartman, a 2020 graduate, displays her Personal Project in 2018. that, this year, the project would be teachers I don’t have anymore since Herman said. an optional project.” credit. Cooper students need 13 staff mentors to the use of Hawk she’s my supervisor for my project,” While the number of sopho- elective credits total to graduate from Lunch and Learn sessions that focus Ranstrom said. SEVEN DREAMS mores working on a project this year high school. on the Personal Project. According to Schaffer, the continued from page 1 is much lower than normal, Chris- Lastly, after completing the “The biggest obstacle is time chance to work with Ranstrom was To fully utilize the opportuni- tensen said there are still students Personal Project, Christensen said management. Students have to find a big reason why she volunteered to ties the Seven Dreams Foundation taking part in the process and enjoy- you can put it on your academic and a schedule that works for them,” be a mentor. Schaffer also said she offers, Herman hopes that “more ing the many benefits to completing a professional resume. Christensen said. likes the topic of the project. teachers will submit proposals project. One of the benefits is that you “As students begin looking One student who is tackling a “As soon as I heard about her for their classrooms to enhance get to create a project that is based on for employment, they can use the Personal Project this year is Amalia project, which was to explore dif- learning.” your personal interests and you get process of the Personal Project as Ranstrom (10), who is doing a project ferent cake decorating skills...I was “The fundraising that the foun- some independence. a selling point for why employers on cake decorating. sold,” Schaffer said. dation does is very important and “In regular courses, students should select them. Students have “I researched a lot about the As a mentor, Schaffer said she we are fortunate to be able to are often assigned a particular area selected their own topic, defined a re- basic skills, recipes and tools one uses has enjoyed watching Ranstrom learn see some of that money come to to research; however, the Personal search area, conducted that research, for this, and then created a few cakes over the course of the project. Cooper, which directly affects our Project is an opportunity to select an created an end product, all while of my own,” she said. “I very much enjoyed watching students in the classroom,” Herman area that really interests you. Perhaps utilizing their own time-management Ranstrom said she enjoys bak- Amalia’s progress throughout the said. it’s an area that you know nothing and self-starting skills. Relaying your ing and is happy the Personal Project course of the project. I could see her Teaches and staff member about, or an area that you have some ability to follow a project through gave her a chance to go more in depth skills improving as her confidence interested in learning more about knowledge of, but wish to learn from start to finish, independently, on this topic. in herself grew. She created some how to apply for grants, or students more. The main requirement is that can be a huge selling point to a po- “The Personal Project was a really outstanding cakes that legit- wanting to learn more about the you’re interested in learning more,” tential employer,” Christensen said. great opportunity for me to finally imately looked like works of art,” contributions of the Seven Dreams Christensen said. For the Personal Project, stu- learn the basics of this skill that I’ve Foundation, can visit their website Completing the Personal Project dents are provided with a wide va- been wanting to learn for a while,” PERSONAL PROJECTS at SevenDreamsFoundation.org will also grant students an elective riety of support, which ranges from she said. continues on page 10 March 22, 2021 News Page 3, The Quill NHS members Yearbook staff nears final deadlines are readying for Students producing this year's edition of Talons have faced unprecedented obstacles during a virtual school year busy April, May By JACK ATKINSON Quill staff writer The return to in-person learning will help the group Cooper’s yearbook, Talons, is created annually by a student get engaged in its mission staff as part of an elective class offered at school. While produc- By SANDY VUE ing a publication that captures an Quill staff writer entire year in the life of a high school is always a big challenge, Cooper’s chapter of Na- making the process more diffi- tional Honor Society (NHS) cult this year was the reality of has been on pause due to the distance learning. pandemic. However, with the According to Talons ad- school moving toward plans for visor and English teacher Ms. in-person learning, NHS advi- Obranovich, the obstacles posed sor Mr. Darsow hopes the group by online learning appeared right will be more active in April and from the very start of the school May. year. NHS is an academic and “Since students are working service organization. Member- on Chromebooks rather than the ship in the NHS is based on four desktop computers in the library, criteria: scholarship, leadership, we had to completely change the service and character. Students software program that we used who are in their junior or senior to create the book. This was hard year of high school and display since I had never used this pro- those four traits have the chance gram before either and I had to to apply for NHS membership. help students through it virtually According to Darsow, one in- centive for joining NHS relates rather than in person,” she said. Photo by MR. ZUCCOLA The name of the program to the college search. The final product should be ready for distribution to Cooper students at the end of May. being used by the staff is Encore, “It shows potential colleges which is provided by Balfour, compared to the current program. soccer, the winter dance team Once they get their assign- that students in this organiza- the publishing company that We only started using it because page and a student life page ments, the staff members have tion are strong in all four of the prints Cooper’s yearbook once it's more suited to distance learn- about books. Last year, I only another challenge to face due to criteria,” Darsow said. “Thus, it it is done. The Encore program ing.” made and worked on pages about distance learning: gathering the helps you stand apart when ap- is composed of three sections Once the staff was able to sports or clubs at Cooper, so hav- needed materials for each page. plying for college or a job.” called "Pages," "Photos" and locate a design program that ing to make a student life page “It’s been challenging get- NHS also provides a way "Library." In “Pages,” the staff worked better with distance was something new to me,” So- ting pictures, since spectators for students to perform com- can see the progress of the year- learning, the next challenge was phia Scheveck (12) said. to events were very limited and munity service and give back book and they can click on any to organize themselves in order Also working on a mix of there weren’t any other student to their community. In the past, page and begin editing that page. to share the work and responsi- sports and student life pages is activities happening for us to NHS has participated in a lot of In “Photos,” the staff can see all bilities for putting together the Maddie Monner (11). document. We relied on students volunteer opportunities provid- of the photos that have been sub- publication as a whole. “For pages or sections I have answering our emails or filling ed by the school, Darsow said. mitted to the program and select “Students are able to choose completed and helped contribute out Google Forms and it was In order to apply for mem- any picture for use on any page. the pages that they want to work to, I worked on girls swimming, difficult to get the responses we bership in the group, students Lastly, in the “Library” section, on. If there are any left over, then girls and boys cross country, and needed,” Obranovich said. must attain at least a 3.6 GPA, staff can select backgrounds, I will assign them as needed, de- then a student life page about the Also presenting challenges participate in extracurriculars graphics and templates to use pending on who I think would quarantine that was polled to the this year to getting materials for or clubs at Cooper, and have a while building individual pages. be best for the job,” Obranovich students for answers. I have two yearbook pages was some of the recommendation letter from a “Encore is a much smooth- said. more pages in progress for Nor- uncertainty around which events faculty member. er program than the one that the Current staff members said dic skiing and boys swimming, and groups would still be taking “There is not a set number staff used last year,” Talons staff they have enjoyed the process of and I hope to be able to do a few place due to COVID. of students who get accepted member Cyrus Jarjay (12) said. selecting the sections on which more pages or help contribute to into the program. It is based on “A lot of the qualities of the pre- they wanted to work. different sections before the end YEARBOOK their GPA and a letter of recom- vious program were outdated “This year, I have done girls of the school year,” Monner said. continues on page 8 mendation,” Darsow said. Due to the pandemic, the NHS has not been very active this year. Darsow said that stu- Adjusting to in-person learning will test people's relationships dents are limited in their ability The excitement surrounding the return to school should not distract students from making sure their relationships are healthy to take part in volunteer oppor- tunities due to social distancing. By MAKAYLA HOTT one another, their interactions “giving in” to the other person, think you need to walk on egg- As a result, it will be hard for Quill staff writer may become strained, which can that relationship will eventually shells around your friend or part- them to earn the 20 hours of lead to a breakdown in commu- suffer. ner or make you feel trapped. volunteer work that they are re- Heading back to in-person nication. Making sure you can quired to have at the end of the learning this April will have an openly speak to the people you Setting boundaries is a smart Evaluating your relationships year. impact on students and the rela- care about can help you maintain move can be productive “We had one Google Meet tionships they have with one an- those relationships. In healthy relationships, Many people maintain rela- and that was all. It has been a other. With some people going it is a good thing to set healthy tionships with others without re- struggle to find time to do work to the building for school, while Compromising is important boundaries for one another. Cre- flecting on whether or not those for the NHS because I have been other people are electing to stay One element of healthy re- ating healthy boundaries is a relationships are worth continu- focusing on the classes I teach,” home for distance learning, stu- lationships is the ability to com- good way to avoid certain dis- ing. In order to evaluate the health Darsow said. dents may experience of your friendships or Nevertheless, Darsow is changes with how they romantic relationships, hoping to send out letters to can- get along with their there are a few issues to didates that qualify for the NHS friends and family af- By setting boundaries, people can keep their relationship consider. First, you need at some point during second ter a year in full online healthy and secure. Also, by setting healthy boundaries to- to ask yourself wheth- semester. He also plans to have learning. This makes it er the person you have an induction ceremony, but, for important for everyone gether with your friends or partner, you can have a deeper the relationship with is now, nothing is set in stone and to consider the elements understanding of the type of relationship you both want. glad that you have other there are no specific details yet of healthy relationships friends and if they are on these plans. to make sure our many fine with the idea that This is Darsow’s first year transitions during fourth you want time alone as advisor for the group. He quarter are as positive as possible. promise. Yes, disagreements are agreements you and your partner with those other friends. Second, took over for English teacher a natural part of a relationship, may have. By setting boundaries, you will want to consider wheth- Mr. Knutson, who left Cooper Communicating is key but it’s important to find a way people can keep their relationship er the other person respects your after the 2019-2020 school year. Communication is a key part to compromise if you disagree on healthy and secure. Also, by set- opinion on things, even if it’s Darsow was also a member of of building a healthy relationship. something. Disagreements and ting healthy boundaries together different than theirs. Third, you the NHS in 2000 when he grad- A lot of relationships don’t work conflicts should be solved in a with your friends or partner, you will want to reflect on whether uated from high school. out due to problems with com- fair and rational way, which ties can have a deeper understanding the other person both talks and The student leaders of NHS munication skills. When friends back to the importance of honest of the type of relationship you listens when you are interacting. this year are Andrea Tribble or romantic partners don’t feel communication. If one person in want. At the same time, it is im- If you find that your relationships (12), who is the president, and like they are free to share their a relationship feels like they are portant to remember that having are lacking in these three areas, it Natalie Harms (12), who is the true thoughts and feelings with the only one compromising or boundaries should not make you may be time to move on. vice president.

THe Staff Writers Letters to the Editor Editorial Policy Yordanose Mulat Quill Nolan Andler The Quill welcomes Letters to the Editor. The Quill is an open and public forum Jack Atkinson Majay Murphy If you would like to send The Quill your for the thoughts and opinions of all Leadership Staff Ariel Christensen Christopher Nguyen thoughts about a story that ran in the students at Robbinsdale Cooper High Editor-in-Chief Max Rekela-Jasper Erin Chunn Luke Rekela-Jasper paper, or your thoughts about an issue af- School. Editorials contained in the Tiona Edwards Max Rekela-Jasper fecting our school or community, please Opinion section of the newspaper are News Editor Andrew Hagge the views of their respective authors Andrew Hagge Davis Ruppert-Kan word process and email your letter to [email protected] as a text-only alone. They do not necessarily repre- Features Editor Christopher Nguyen Makayla Hott Andrea Tribble file. The Quill reserves the right to edit sent the views of Cooper High School Opinion Editor Sandy Vue Faith King Sandy Vue all Letters to the Editor for space. or Robbinsdale School District 281. Variety Editor Luke Rekela-Jasper Sao Moua Zacari Watson Robbinsdale Cooper High School's Sports Editor Nolan Andler Advertising Support Staff The Quill is a member of the Na- Copy Editors Yordanose Mulat Photographers Erin Chunn To advertise, please write to The Quill, tional Scholastic Press Association. Max Rekela-Jasper Tiona Edwards Robbinsdale Cooper High School, Illustrator D. Ruppert-Kan 8230 47th Avenue North, New Hope, Advertising Jawenah Freeman Advisor Eric Zuccola MN 55428; call at 763-504-8500; or Circulation Zacari Watson Principal Frank Herman email [email protected]. Page 4, The Quill Opinion March 22, 2021 From the Editors Return to Paris Climate Accord was critical There is no time President Biden's decision to rejoin the international climate agreement was an important step in addressing a growing crisis crops such as rice and wheat are for senior class reducing, which can lead to nu- tritional losses and have very se- rious health effects. In addition, to start a 'slide' the climatic changes that result from rising carbon dioxide levels The temptations of the "senior are reducing the stability of food slide" are especially dangerous supply and crop yields. Accord- ing to an article from Theconver- during such an unusual year sation.com, nearly 9 percent of The start of fourth quarter at the planet’s growing population Cooper has many seniors look- is food insecure, and that num- ing forward to spending their last ber is increasing over the past weeks in high school participat- few years. Around 45 percent of ing in the classic tradition known childhood deaths worldwide are as the “senior slide.” The senior due to starvation or insufficient slide refers to the time in which nutrients. With the resources the 12th graders lose motivation to United States has, I’m positive keep up with good grades and at- that rejoining the agreement will tendance. Making this tradition give our nation a chance to de- even more complicated this year crease these numbers if action is is the mix of in-person and dis- taken at the right time. tance learning, which has some Lastly, rejoining the agree- students learning from home ment will improve the health while we are still dealing with of humans and even save lives. the pandemic. While it is never a Climate change is such a big good idea to give in to the senior problem in the world; it threat- slide, it may be an especially bad Photo by DOMINIQUE WILLIS ens the air, water and food. Ex- treme weather and rising sea idea this year when the tempta- Extreme weather events have been on the rise everywhere in the world due to climate change. tion to slide is even greater than levels caused by climate change normal. By MAX REKELA-JASPER the agreement provides a frame- again work with other countries can destroy homes, public places One thing that prompts Quill staff writer work for technical, financial and to combat climate changes and and other structures, forcing peo- many seniors to slide is their ac- capacity-building support, which adapt to its impacts. ple to migrate, which displaces ceptance into a college. In effect, The United States official- is not only great for the United According to an article by population. In fact, the World if a senior knows she or he is set ly returned to the Paris Climate States but great for the world’s Globalchange.gov, studies con- Economic Forum ranks “extreme for school next fall, they may Agreement in February under climate as well. ducted by researchers around the weather,” “natural disasters” and feel less need to do well now. the order of our country’s new Re-joining the Paris Climate world have documented increases “the collective failure to adapt to However, colleges are interested president, Joe Biden. The Par- Agreement was one of Biden’s in temperature at the Earth’s sur- climate change” as three of the in knowing how you do during is Climate Agreement is a legal first actions as president. One face, as well as in the atmosphere greatest threats facing humanity your final semester of high treaty on climate change. The of former President Donald and oceans. This is why we need to in this new decade. Developing school, and many seniors are main effort of the agreement is to Trump’s arguments for his deci- work with other countries in order countries that lack proper re- motivated to keep trying because limit global warming to less than sion to leave the agreement was to save the Earth’s climate. What sources to adapt to temperature of this fact. For seniors who are 2 degrees Celsius and preferably that climate change in the world many do not realize is that hotter and precipitation changes will be in this situation, it would bene- as low as 1.5 degrees Celsius is a hoax and that remaining in temperatures around the world end hit the hardest. With the United fit you to spend fourth quarter (35-34 degrees Fahren- States back in the agree- working toward the highest GPA heit). In order for this to ment under the Biden possible rather than following be done, the accord re- As the temperatures increase, glaciers administration, I believe quires a social and eco- that the United States the tradition of goofing off. Even melt, which can lead to the rise of sea with the guarantee that “taking nomic transformation in will provide adequate the quarter off” wouldn’t impact order to face the incom- levels and coastal erosion, which affects help to those countries your acceptance into college, ing climate challenges everyone, including the United States. in need. staying on top of your responsi- now and into the future. In conclusion, I bilities will give you momentum The agreement works strongly believe that re- as you head toward your new on a cycle of five years joining the Paris Climate school in the fall. of determined climate action. This the agreement would put the up altering global weather patterns Agreement was not only a good Another big reason why means that every five years, the United States at a “permanent and inevitably change how rain move for the United States, but some seniors slide is that they countries involved in the agree- disadvantage.” This argument falls. This is extremely dangerous for the world. The agreement are legitimately busy outside of ment communicate their plans made no sense whatsoever. First as it can cause a drought, floods, will help fight climate change school. Some seniors work and with one another. These plans of all, the agreement mandates wildfires and more. As the tem- throughout the world, and by many of those working seniors are typically actions they will that developed countries, such peratures increase, glaciers melt, doing so, food supplies will be have actually seen their hours take to reduce greenhouse gas as the United States, help de- which can lead to the rise of sea saved, natural disasters will be increase now that we have dis- emissions in order to reach the veloping countries with their levels and coastal erosion, which prevented, and we will have a tance learning. This makes it goals of the agreement. In addi- climate needs and goals. I don’t affects everyone, including the stronger relationships with other challenging to pay attention to tion to reducing greenhouse gas see how helping other countries United States. countries, which will benefit the school. However, it is important emissions, countries will com- with their climate problems puts One of the big factors that is United States in the future. Over- to remember that you are a stu- municate actions they will take the United States at a severe dis- threatened with climate change all, Biden’s decision to rejoin the dent first and you need that high to resist and adapt to the world’s advantage. Now that the United is food security. Due to the rise agreement was a great move that school diploma to be able to do rising temperatures. For those States is back in the agreement, of the carbon dioxide concentra- will not only improve our coun- any of the things you would like countries who are in need of it, we have the opportunity to once tion on the Earth, the density of try, but the world as a whole. to achieve after graduation. Another way seniors can be busy during fourth quarter is Biden gets mixed marks two months into presidency through sports. Much like the fall and winter sports seasons, spring While he easily eclipses the incompetence of our last president, Biden has been far from perfect so far sports are happening with mini- By DAVIS RUPPERT-KAN took place under the Obama ad- mal restrictions, unlike the situ- Quill staff writer ministration). Here’s hoping there ation last spring when all sports aren’t any more attacks. were canceled. For seniors who Welcome to a “retrospect” of Ultimately, when considering are doing a spring sport, it is im- Joe Biden’s presidency thus far. the last two months, I can’t say portant to remember to balance Can we even call it a retrospect I’m surprised either way about our those commitments with your yet? I mean, he has only been in president’s performance. Biden work in school. In fact, many the office for two months now. Oh, and his administration’s han- sports teams have requirements well. The questionable nature of dling of the pandemic so far has around the grades athletes are pretentious opening lines hasn’t been miles better than President getting in class, so continuing stopped me before. Trump’s had been, though it’s not to emphasize your studies may So, Biden’s been in office for like it was a particularly high bar actually help you maintain your almost two months now, and, well, to get over. Meanwhile, everything spot on the team. one thing I can definitely say is else has been a mixed bag at best. The final reason many se- that he has certainly been in office While this prediction may niors slide is because they want a for almost two months. I’m unsure age poorly, I don’t think we’ll stress-free end to their final year whether to praise the positives get the $15 minimum wage un- of high school. Of course, school or rail against the horrible things Photo courtesy of GETTY IMAGES til at least 2022, assuming the stress is quite different this year done thus far. Whichever direc- Democrats somehow retain the in light of distance learning and tion I skew toward may not age all Biden's moves toward vaccinating all Americans have been effective. majority. Democrats don’t have the other concerns being caused too well in the coming weeks and chance to enact a $15 minimum relief bill itself did pass through the votes to pass it as a standalone by the pandemic. Some seniors months. wage bill when eight of them, most the Senate, with all but one Repub- bill, and I don’t think they’re as- may feel more or less stressed by On the plus side, Biden's han- notably Joe Manchin and Kyrsten lican voting against it. That pushed sertive enough to push Manchin having classes in person or on- dling of COVID has been fantastic Sinema, voted against adding it in the bill back into the House, where or the other conservatives among line. Much like everything else overall in terms of his approach as an amendment to the COVID it was passed and then signed by them to vote for it. Moreover, I about school right now, senior to new cases, deaths and vaccine Relief bill. Biden on March 11. can’t see them effectively vilify- slide looks a little bit different distribution. Due to many actions Adding the amendment would On the foreign policy side, ing or calling out the Republicans, this year. his administration has taken, new only have required a simple major- Biden issued an attack on Syria, who just months ago incited and With so much uncertain- cases have plummeted, with daily ity, while the wage bill on its own killing at least 22, the entirety of defended an attempted insurrec- ty right now connected to the deaths dropping soon after. will now require 60 votes in order which were reported, but not con- tion, in order to pressure them pandemic and what school will However, even with his ad- to overcome the filibuster. The lat- firmed, to be combatants. This into supporting a higher minimum be like over the final quarter of ministration’s handling of COVID, ter senator, Sinema, voted against was a retaliatory strike for an wage. While there is a time for ci- the year, the one thing that se- there have been a few less than the amendment in a particularly earlier attack against a U.S. base, vility in politics, I’d argue that the niors can control is how they stellar things to take place so far. flamboyant way, akin to late Sen- which killed one. This seems to tail end of a global pandemic and perform in the classes they are The $2,000 survival checks that ator John McCain’s vote against be a completely proportional at- an ever-growing economic implo- taking. Instead of giving in to had been heavily implied would repealing the Affordable Care Act tack, and not at all an escalation. sion is not the best time for the the slide, every senior should be be delivered a week or two fol- back in 2017. She also made a ref- Biden isn’t particularly hawkish Democrats to adopt the aesthetics serious about finishing out their lowing the Georgia runoffs turned erence to Marie Antoinette, having when it comes to war based on of bipartisanship. high school experience on a pos- into $1,400 well over a month lat- brought a chocolate cake into Con- what I have looked into about his Still, a Biden presidency itive note by working toward the er. Additionally, Democrats in the gress the same day. background (not including his beats another four years under an highest GPA possible. Senate skipped on perhaps the best With all that being said, the contribution to the attacks that outright fascist, I guess. March 22, 2021 Opinion Page 5, The Quill Nicer weather Everyone who can must get vaccinated will contribute The only way we can safeguard our own health and work toward herd immunity against COVID is by getting the vaccine ple avoid getting COVID. For to better health example, the CDC reports that the Pfizer vaccine is more than People who experience de- 95 percent effective after two pression symptoms in winter doses. Additionally, the side ef- often feel better in spring fects associated with the vacci- nation are largely mild. A sore injection site seems to be a fair trade off for protection against the coronavirus. The third reason to get vac- cinated is that it not only makes you safe, it contributes to mak- ing the people around you saf-

er as well. You may have heard Photo by ANIKET BHATTACHARYA of the idea of “herd immunity” when it comes to COVID. Herd Exposure to the sun can help improve immunity happens when a suffi- one's physical and mental health. cient percentage of a population has become immune to a dis- By TIONA EDWARDS-WALKER ease, either through vaccination Quill staff writer or being infected. Once this per- Many people find that chang- centage reaches a certain point, es in weather can have an impact it reduces the chance that indi- on their mental health. In extreme viduals who lack immunity will cases, this can cause what is known get infected. Based on this idea, as seasonal affective disorder. Sea- getting the vaccine can help the sonal affective disorder occurs in Photo courtesy of CDC.ORG community around you. climates where there is less sun- If you are scared of getting Minnesota Governor Tim Walz has been opening up vaccine eligibility to larger groups of citizens. light at certain times of the year, COVID, or if you want to do like winter in Minnesota. People By MAJAY MURPHY hopeful she can avoid getting around with. I got COVID and what is best for the community who have this disorder may expe- Quill staff writer COVID. While some people are had to stay in the house for 14 as a whole, you should get vac- rience fatigue, depression, hope- nervous about getting vaccinat- days. Not only was I unable to cinated. Take it from someone lessness and social withdrawal. More than 1 million Min- ed, it is important that we all do work out or play basketball, I who has dealt with this illness: For students who might deal with nesotans have gotten at least so because it gives us a better also lost 10 pounds. If the vac- it is something you do not want varying degrees of weather-related one dose of the COVID vaccine chance of not getting sick. cine can help you avoid a sit- to mess around with. As the issues like this, the combination as of March 10, according to the The first reason to get vac- uation like that, it is clear you state begins opening up access of the winter blues and distance Star Tribune. Clearly, people in cinated is that it is the one ef- should get it. to vaccinations to more people learning has been tough to handle. our state are getting vaccinated fective way of protecting your- Another reason to get vac- from different age groups, ev- However, March has brought with against the coronavirus. In fact, self from COVID. As the last cinated is that the process is eryone will soon have access to it some improved weather and my own aunt recently got her year has made clear, COVID safe. The research shows that the vaccine. Don’t ignore your news that students who want to second vaccination, so we are isn’t something to be playing getting the vaccine helps peo- chance to get vaccinated. can choose in-person learning in April. These two changes are ones that have had a positive impact on my mental health. Staying home is a good choice for many Hawks As fall moved into winter in Although in-person learning is starting in April, hundreds of Cooper students are electing to continue taking their classes virtually 2020, and the days became shorter and colder, things for me started By MAKAYLA HOTT that time, I have gotten used to to get harder and harder. It started Quill staff writer the idea of doing school from getting more difficult to get out of home. As a result, I don’t think bed in the morning, and the school Returning to school for I’ll be returning to school in work in distance learning felt like in-person learning has some April. As someone who works it was piling on. I eventually had students excited and some a lot, I have found that the dis- to quit my job because the hours students stressed. Everyone tance learning schedule works were draining me too much. I is questioning whether or not with my work schedule, allow- could not focus on school and the they want to go back to school ing me to get more hours at my late night shifts would cause me to now that we know April 6 will job. I like how distance learn- oversleep and miss my classes or be the official start of in-per- ing gives you more flexibility fall asleep during them. The stress son learning. While it is true to do your work on your time. of the season, my school routine that some students learn better For these reasons, I feel that and other personal issues started in person and enjoy the social distance learning works best to become overwhelming. It just aspects of school, many others for me. made me want to give up. have gotten used to distance In conclusion, I believe Fortunately, the longer days learning and the ability to stay that sticking with distance and improved weather that even- safe and healthy at home. As I learning through the end of tually came in 2021 were a big look at the two options, I feel Photo by DAVINA BELLINGER the year would have been the help. If you are like me, the im- best choice for the district. proved weather makes things feel like distance learning is the Some students are concerned about the potential spread of COVID at school. better choice. However, since the decision a lot less stressful. It’s been getting When in-person learn- classes and teachers through tance learners. The ability to was made to give students two sunnier and warmer out lately. I ing starts in April, we will be a combination of synchro- get academic support through options, everyone can make feel this is a good thing because sticking with the same school nous and asynchronous work. one-on-one tutoring and small the best choice for themselves. a lot of people my age have been schedule. There will be odd While I still feel that distance group work is important. Mak- For students who need in-per- going through a kind of seasonal period classes on Mondays and learning is the best choice, I ing this day even more benefi- son learning, I say, go for it. depression during the winter of Thursdays, even period class- am glad they are trying to give cial is the fact that all students Everyone is different and we 2020, which was full of cold, dark- es on Tuesdays and Fridays, students options and keep can choose to work virtually all learn in different ways. ness and the threat of COVID. It and Wednesdays will remain things as close as possible to if they choose to, which helps Students who say they are is said that adding some sunlight a support day that students how they have been through- cut down on traffic at school struggling because of distance to your day can help relieve anx- can make use of in person or out this school year. and keeps everyone safer. learning now have an opportu- iety and reduce depression. I cer- virtually from home. Distance One highlight of the new When it comes to my nity to get more face-to-face tainly felt this way on March 9, a learning will still be an op- learning model is that Wednes- choice about learning mod- help. At the same time, those sunny day when the temperatures tion for those who choose to day will stay the same. Hav- els, I have enjoyed being able of us opting for distance learn- got into the 60s. Having a little bit continue with that approach. ing the support day is import- to learn from home. We have ing can continue to get our ed- of sun on my face made my day Students in this category ant to all students, whether been doing distance learning ucation in a more protected feel better. will continue with their same they will be in-person or dis- since March of last year. In environment at home. As we head into spring break, we are clearly getting into the time of the year during which we will have consistently better weather. Adjusting to school changes will require a growth mindset With that should come improved The many challenges that will come during fourth quarter will be surmountable if students stay positive mental health for Cooper students who have had a tough year during By ANDREA TRIBBLE fits in our everyday lives as we learning, a growth mindset can set, it is important to spread the the pandemic. Along with the pos- Quill staff writer navigate through stressors and help us be more intentional about knowledge to others. Encour- itive shift in weather, students also hardships. Students without a both applying ourselves consis- aging the people around you to now have the option of going back Completing school assign- growth mindset are known not tently and maintaining a healthy have a growth mindset can give to in-school learning starting in ments takes more than paper only to struggle with the moti- balance between our schoolwork them an empowering perspective April. I feel that this will help a lot and a pencil. Instead, having a vation to complete assignments, and our personal lives. on learning through which they of students feel back on track with positive, growth mindset is vital they will also have trouble ap- Developing a growth mind- focus on improvement and view their learning. Also, being able to in achieving academic success. plying themselves when given set is not always easy. It involves failure as a natural part of the see friends again throughout the People with a growth mindset a difficult task in life outside of challenging yourself and relent- learning process. day will mean a lot. When add- thrive on challenges and they see school due to a fear of failure. lessly pushing yourself to be the Ultimately, as we antici- ed to the improved weather, this failure not as evidence of a lack of As students transition from best you that you can be. When pate our transition back into the should lead to a positive spring. intelligence but as a springboard fully online learning to in-person you successfully develop this building for fourth quarter, it will While there will still be for learning and improving upon learning, we have learned that kind of mindset, the end result be important that we all have a some bumps in the weather as we their existing abilities. It has been being in the comfort of our own will not only be reflected in your growth mindset. Adjusting back move toward summer, it definite- shown that when students have homes can make it difficult to academic success, but also in into a “normal” routine for those ly feels like we are heading in a a growth mindset, they are more focus and have the motivation to your emotional well-being. Hav- of us choosing in-person learn- good direction. The changes in resilient in the face of adversity, fully engage with what is happen- ing a growth mindset can help ing will raise many challenges. our weather and the chance to re- which we all experience in school ing on our computer screens. As you create a stronger sense of For the students remaining in turn to school will help students when we get grades that do not we deal with the responsibility of self-confidence and self-aware- distance learning, the classroom dealing with seasonal depression. meet our expectations or face dif- managing our own time in ways ness, which can positively experience will continue to be Hopefully, things will feel like ficult final exams. we weren’t expected to before change the way that you look at different than it has in the past. In they are starting to turn around In addition to helping in this school year, it has been the yourself. either case, developing a growth for everybody. It is time for bet- an academic context, having a perfect time to develop a growth Not only is it important to mindset will help you face all the ter weather, better learning and growth mindset can bring bene- mindset. When it comes to online practice having a growth mind- challenges that await us. better mental health. Page 6, The Quill Variety March 22, 2021 Premier Performers Avengers game is poorly assembled The story of the musicians and artists who bring their talents to Cooper Marvel's Avengers does a disservice to the famous characters the game features Hieu Tran By YORDANOSE MULAT “I got to perform with great and Quill staff writer talented people, as well as seeing my family there. Also, it allowed us to walk Hieu Tran (12) participates in around the city,” he said. Concert Choir. Tran has been involved As for academics, Tran said his fa- in choir since first grade. While it was a vorite class in school is U.S. Government. requirement at that time, he later chose to “I get to learn about how our Con- continue participating. gress, presidency and law “I stayed because sing- affects our lives and people ing in general has always been around the world,” he said. fun and it allows me to release Outside of school Tran anxiety and helps me when enjoys playing on a basket- I’m doing other activities. ball team for Brooklyn Park, Also, all of my siblings have playing the piano, reading done choir as well,” he said. books and helping people. Tran said he has en- Next fall, Tran plans to joyed the practices and Photo by LIFETOUCH go to Augsburg University breakout rooms in choir. He and focus on international re- also said he likes working lations and political science. with his tenor group. “I like to travel, so, after I graduate, I “We would goof around but work would like to join the Peace Corps and gain hard as well,” Tran said. more world knowledge and eventually be- Photo courtesy of SQUARE ENIX One of Tran’s favorite choir mem- come a United States foreign service officer ories was going to Orchestra Hall for the or do some type of work for an international A poor plot, baffling characters and clumsy gameplay are among the many shortcomings ofMarvel's Avengers. first time. government or domestic,” he said. By LUKE REKELA-JASPER By the middle of the story, it felt fighting robots with the most Quill staff writer like a chore to beat the game as bland and generic character de- soon as possible so I could just signs and abilities ever. I think if Pazong Xiong Ever since the release of get it over with. this game had a great or maybe Marvel Studio’s filmThe Aveng- The second issue with the even decent story, I could give after weeks of hard work,” Xiong said. By YORDANOSE MULAT ers in 2012, the superhero team game is the characters. The the combat gameplay sections As of right now, Xiong said she Quill staff writer has become a household name game primarily revolves around a pass, but when almost every doesn’t have any leadership roles in and extremely popular figures in Kamala Khan, a teenager who encounter revolves around a Pazong Xiong (12) is involved choir; however, she said she will be con- the world of pop culture. When acquires superpowers and aims character throwing objects and in Cooper’s choir program. Xiong has tinuing Concert Choir for the remainder you have something that suc- to reassemble the Avengers, punching androids in the face, been in choir since sixth grade when she of the year. cessful, it is inevitable that those and she is insufferable. I am it gets really stale. I actually was randomly assigned to it. However, As for academics, Xiong’s favorite characters would not remain on baffled that the game could be dreaded most of the action-ori- she stayed with the activity. classes are English and year- just the silver screen, so in late released with such bad charac- ented parts of the game. “I was just put in it but book. 2017, a game centered around ter writing and dialogue, espe- My fourth and final issue I stayed since the teacher “I enjoy all the books the Avengers was announced, cially with her character. I also with Marvel's Avengers is its was really nice and great in we read in English class and which eventually released on think the five main members of antagonists. Besides the one helping the class learn new I love being able to use my September 4, 2020 to a mixed the Avengers suffer from this hundred million robots you fight music,” she said. creativity in yearbook class,” reception. Due to some contro- as well, because most of their in the game, the main villain is Xiong said she has en- Xiong said. versy regarding the game’s tech- conflicts with one another stem MODOK, a scientist who once joyed “learning new pieces Outside of school, nical issues, I decided to wait a from miscommunication that was friends with the Avengers of music, especially music Xiong’s hobbies include couple months before purchas- we as an audience have not real- who becomes a super-mad sci- in different languages.” Photo by LIFETOUCH dancing, baking and fashion. ing the game with the hope of ly seen, especially because this entist. MODOK is a complete- One of Xiong’s favor- In the future, Xiong finding it on sale for ly new and original ite memories from choir is plans on pursuing a nursing a reduced price. As character who has not performing at the Fall Music Festival at degree in college and then having a career fortune would have been seen before in Orchestra Hall. as a registered nurse. As for arts activities it, in December 2020, The game primarily revolves the movies. Howev- “We work with the Cooper band in the future, Xiong said she would like to I purchased Marvel's around Kamala Khan, a teenager er, besides MODOK, and orchestra, along with Armstrong’s continue with choir in college. Avengers for PC for there are only three choir, band and orchestra, and it’s really “I want to be involved in more ac- who acquires superpowers and half of the price of other non-robot an- cool to hear everything come together tivities to meet new people,” she said. its original release. aims to reassemble the Aveng- tagonists, and two of At first, I thought this ers, and she is insufferable. I am them you fight early price was a steal, but, on in the game. In Danny Latu boy, do I wish I could baffled that the game could be fact, these two early travel back in time released with such bad character fights are highlights pointed out in particular involves Wind By YORDANOSE MULAT and tell myself to not writing and dialogue, especially of the game for me, Quill staff writer Ensemble. buy this game. but that is not really “My favorite part about Wind En- The first and pri- with her character. I also think the saying much. I think Danny Latu (12) has contributed to semble is playing challenging new music mary problem with five main members of the Aveng- if the game relied on many music programs at Cooper, includ- with new and unique percussion instru- Marvel's Avengers more characters from ing Wind Ensemble, Jazz Band, Pit Or- ments such as wood blocks, chimes and is the story. With- ers suffer from this as well. the comic books rath- chestra, Marching Band and Pep Band. bongos,” he said. out giving away too er than robotic an- “This is my third year in Wind En- Latu has had many memories from much, the basic plot droids that could be semble. I wanted to join as it his arts activities, but one that has the Avengers disband after is the first game featuring the ripped in half faster than a piece was the top group and it was stands out came in ninth grade. one of their members is killed ensemble. However, I do think of paper, then it would have cre- my GPA to make it in. I’ve “For Pep Band, my fa- and they are blamed for an at- the strongest parts of the game ated more interesting encounters. been in Jazz Band since ninth vorite memory was playing at tack on San Francisco. How- have to be the character interac- It’s not like the Avengers are go- grade and it is my favorite the girls basketball champion- ever, they are forced to come tions with the original Aveng- ing to go around killing people. band as I get to play drums ship in ninth grade when we back together when a govern- ers, especially Captain America, In conclusion, Marvel's and also I love jazz mu- won,” he said. ment agency seeks to eliminate my favorite in-game character. Avengers is a monumentally sic. I’ve been in Marching Latu said he has many all super-powered individuals. For the most part, though, the disappointing video game in the Band since 10th grade and activities and hobbies outside Based on the premise, the game characters really lack depth and superhero subgenre. It lacks al- I love getting to perform at Photo by LIFETOUCH of school . He works part time doesn’t sound that bad, but the good character writing. most every important aspect of the football games and learn at Hy-Vee and likes exercis- story is extremely slow, and it While I think story and a good superhero video game, fun music. I’ve been going to ing at Lifetime Fitness. takes 10 hours or more of play- character writing are more not to mention just a good video Pep Band since ninth grade as they are a Next fall, Latu will attend a commu- ing time to actually be able to important when it comes to a game. I would absolutely rec- required part of the band, but I find them nity college to work on his general cours- play as every member of the movie, I think for a video game, ommend gamers not purchase to be a lot of fun as well,” he said. es. He then wants to transfer to Berklee Avengers. Also, several signifi- gameplay has to be the key in- this game. Marvel's Avengers Latu enjoys the arts because of the College of Music or Manhattan School of cant events that affect how char- gredient to making it enjoyable. deserves one out of five stars different activities he is able to do. One he Music so he can pursue music as a career. acters act during the main story Unfortunately, Marvel's Aveng- due to its horrible story, char- happen off-screen, which makes ers fails to make the game re- acter writing, technical issues, me as a player ask for more in an playable. The primary combat gameplay and pretty much ev- Son Vuong already drawn-out video game. sequences focus on characters erything else.

By YORDANOSE MULAT been interested in art his whole life. Quill staff writer “I started way back in first grade, Quill Comics Corner and up until now, all of my art teachers Uhmm...Working Title By Davis Ruppert-Kan Son Vuong (12) is involved in choir, from the past up until now were such a theater and art classes. Vuong has been in- joy to work with. Just the colors, shapes, volved in choir since he was four. and the combinations that you can make “I got started in choir because my with these things create such beautiful art- parents and siblings heard me sing while works that it brings me to shedding tears doing my homework one of joy,” Vuong said. time and they realized my When it comes to full potential and brought school, Vuong’s favorite class- me to choir practice for my es are theater, art and choir. church school choir,” he said. “It’s where I get to be Vuong said he first got me and relieve myself of my involved in theater during anxiety that locks me and my 10th grade in Texas. imagination in place but not “We didn’t get a chance flowing like a creek,” he said. to start doing anything with Photo by SON VUONG Outside of school, performances, so we just Vuong enjoys playing piano, learned the basic stuff about interpretive dancing, draw- theater and even drew up a clothes pallet ing, cooking and hand-gloving. on what we think everyone in class would Next fall, Vuong will attend the wear if we were to perform a play based University of Minnesota or St. Mary’s on our own origin of culture,” he said. University. He is considering a major in Meanwhile, Vuong said he has culinary arts, theater arts or fine arts. March 22, 2021 Variety Page 7, The Quill Vampire Diaries Get ready for baseball with solid Show creates universe MLB The Show 20 does an ample job of giving gamers an often realistic experience of playing professional ball that captivates The original show and its spinoffs are perfect for fans of the supernatural genre

By ZACARI WATSON Quill staff writer

If you’ve read any of my other reviews, you know that I’m into supernatural stuff. Books, TV shows and movies with vampires, werewolves and witches are al- ways among my favorite forms of entertainment. One TV franchise that fits this pattern is The Vam- pire Diaries. The Vampire Dia- ries premiered on September 10, 2009. The success of the show led to a spinoff show, The Originals, which premiered October 3, 2013. More recently, a second spinoff se- ries, Legacies, premiered on Octo- ber 25, 2018. All three shows were produced by Julie Plec and Kevin Williamson for The CW network. I highly recommend this collection of shows for their great plots, in- teresting characters and inventive mythology. The Vampire Diaries starts in a town called Mystic Falls. The main character is Elena Gilbert. Photo courtesy of SONY INTERACTIVE ENTERTAINMENT She and her brother, Jeremy, live A highlight of MLB The Show 20 is its ability to deliver a pitching, batting and fielding experience that is close to the real thing. with their Aunt Jenna. One day, Elena meets the mysterious Stefan By LUKE REKELA-JASPER the “Injured List,” so they basically tempts to go for a sliding or diving In modes like “Diamond Dynas- Salvator (sorry, that was cheesy). Quill staff writer just stop playing the game. I think catch leads to my player teleporting ty,” you can play online with other As Stefan tries to get to know Ele- restricting things such as injuries forward about two feet. On other players as a customizable team of na, things get complicated when Major League Baseball diminishes the realism that MLB occasions, there are times when a your own. You can even design the people start dying. Stefan finds out (MLB) had to shorten the 2020 The Show 20 otherwise seems to be batter who has previously hit will look of your uniforms and accom- that his brother, Damon, is behind season due to the global pandem- striving for. spawn into the batter’s box when pany them with a weird name. All it. Elena soon finds out that Stefan ic. However, that did not stop the Also, in regards to restrictions, there is a new batter up to the plate. around, MLB The Show 20 shines and Damon are vampires. Not only video game development compa- I think in some cases there should While this is funny, it is also dis- when it comes to customization. that, but Elena’s best friend Bonnie ny San Diego Studio from releas- be fights or even brawls if a batter tracting when I am actually trying Another highlight of MLB The finds out that she is a witch. These ing MLB The Show 20 on March is hit by a pitch. In the real world, to win the game. Show 20 is the quality of its pitching, characters then discover different 17, 2020 for baseball fans to have baseball is quite a dangerous sport, On a more positive note, one batting and fielding. When you hit a supernatural beings, like were- something to pass the time last and, oftentimes, that danger comes thing MLB The Show 20 does well ball, you can feel the impact in the wolves, sirens and even the orig- spring. I have played every game in from the players themselves. I think is customization, primarily for PlayStation controls via vibration. inal vampires, over the course of the MLB The Show video This same realism occurs the series, which helps make the game series since 2013, so when you strike out a bat- plot complicated and appealing to I pretty much knew what ter or throw out a runner One thing MLB The Show 20 does well is customization, the viewer. to expect from MLB The trying to steal a base. Speaking of the original Show 20, but there are a primarily for players. When doing the “Road to the Show” While we are on the vampires, the second show, The few positive and negative game mode, players have the ability to customize a young topic of MLB The Show Originals, centers around them. things about the new re- 20’s realism, there is one The Originals takes place in New lease that make it stand out player who will eventually be drafted by an actual MLB team. new piece of realism I am Orleans, where Klaus Mikaelson, from the others. hoping for when the next who is a vampire/werewolf hybrid, The first thing I no- installment in the series is finds out that Hayley, a werewolf, ticed about MLB The Show released. I think that MLB is having his child. Klaus doesn’t 20 is how much more restricted the if the future games in the MLB The players. When doing the “Road The Show 21 should replace the want Marcel, who runs the city, game feels compared to the other Show series want to be more re- to the Show” game mode, play- fans in the stadium with cardboard to find out, because he hates The games in the series. For instance, alistic, then they need to drop the ers have the ability to customize a cutouts like those that were used Originals, so he keeps Hayley safe. when players would suffer an in- E-rating and advance to a T-rating young player who will eventually during the 2020 season because of Additionally, his siblings, Elijah jury during the older games, there so the brawls, fights and injuries be drafted by an actual MLB team. COVID-19. and Rebekah, stay with them. As would be a 10-second animation that happen in the actual MLB are Having the ability to change your Overall, while I wouldn’t say this brief overview makes clear, showing the player either limping incorporated into the game. hairstyle, beard, baseball glove MLB The Show 20 makes you feel this spin-off series features many off or being carried off the field In addition to MLB The Show color, bat color, sun glasses or face like a MLB player, it is definitely interesting characters that keep by medical staff. But in MLB The 20 not showing everything that a shape is quite a fun time on its own. an interesting and romanticized viewers engaged with the show. Show 20, when a player suffers an real MLB game would involve, Additionally, the nicknames you take on professional baseball that More recently came the third injury, there are no animations to another one of the game’s biggest can give your player, which the an- is fun to play either alone or with show in the franchise, Legacies, make the injury on a player seem problems is its glitches. In every nouncer of the game, Matt Vasger- friends. I give MLB The Show 20 which takes place years later. Ste- severe. In fact, more than half of the game in which I am playing as gian, will say when you step up to a solid four out of five stars despite fan and Damon’s house has been time, players don’t even end up on an outfielder, my unsuccessful at- the plate to bat, just add to the fun. its limitations and technical errors. turned into a school for supernat- ural students. The school is run by Alaric Saltzman. Among the stu- Anime film Zero has much to offer fans of original show dents are Hope Mikaelson, Klaus’s daughter; Lizzie and Josie, Ala- No Game No Life: Zero, a prequel movie to the No Game No Life show, features great animation and a stellar story ric’s daughters; and their friends, Landon, Rafael, M.G. and Kaleb, By CHRISTOPHER NGUYEN take people make is not watching among others. When Landon and Quill staff writer the anime before jumping into the Rafael get to the school, ran- movie. Since No Game No Life: dom monsters start showing up, No Game No Life: Zero is a Zero is a prequel, it obviously like dragons, gargoyles and oth- prequel movie to the anime series makes references to the plot of er mythological creatures. They No Game No Life. First released the original anime, so your under- eventually figure out the source in 2017, No Game No Life: Zero standing and enjoyment of the plot and try to stop it. explores what life was like 6,000 depends on your knowledge of No The third show is a great ex- years ago, before the sibling duo Game No Life. Another miscon- ample of how the Vampire Diaries of Shiro and Sora entered the new ception is that the main charac- universe creates a compelling my- world. No Game No Life: Zero is ters from No Game No Life: Zero thology around the supernatural produced by Madhouse, a Japa- seem to resemble the protagonists beings. The mythology is a mix nese animation studio responsi- from No Game No Life. However, of existing and new approach- ble for making hit shows such as viewers of the film must remember es to supernatural creatures. For Perfect Blue, The Girl Who Leapt that Tet is using Sora and Shiro as example, the shows take a tradi- Through Time and Wolf Children. a visual reference while telling the tional approach to vampires and Working hand-in-hand with other story at the heart of No Game No werewolves. Sunlight, along with great producers such as Frontier Life: Zero. Aside from these minor wooden stakes, kill vampires. Photo courtesy of MADHOUSE Works, Movic, AT-X and Kadoka- obstacles, the overall storyline in Meanwhile, the full moon caus- wa, Madhouse has made No Game A knowledge of the original series helps when seeing the movie. No Game No Life: Zero is incredi- es werewolves to turn. However, No Life: Zero a masterpiece of a have made them easy targets for is because it is Madhouse’s in- ble and I was consistently engaged witches in the show don’t have film that features great animation the other Exceed, leaving the hu- tention to display the destruction in the film. green skin and fly on brooms, but and a stellar story. mans on the brink of extinction. and sadness being dealt with in Overall, No Game No Life: they do cast spells and have books No Game No Life: Zero is told The animation in No Game the central story. The animation in Zero is an excellent movie that with information about magic. from the perspective of Tet, a god No Life: Zero is amazing. This is the film accurately displays what deserves 4.5 out of five stars. The Adding to the appeal of the of the current world. The plot of especially the case with the col- an ongoing war and the separation animation quality definitely lives three shows is their excellent casts. the film centers on Riku, an angry orful, vibrant world of Disboard. between different species should up to its hype and Madhouse clear- Some of the primary actors include young warrior intent on saving hu- Interestingly, many viewers of look like. I think Madhouse does ly did an amazing job of picking Ian Somerhalder as Damon Salva- manity from the warring Exceed, the No Game No Life series were an amazing job of trying to keep it the right producers for the film. If tor, Paul Wesley as Stefan Salva- the 16 sentient species that are caught off guard by the look of the visually appealing while display- you are interested in an adventure, tor, Nina Dobrev as Elena Gilbert, fighting to establish the “One True animation in No Game No Life: ing a whole different setting from action and romance, No Game No Candice King as Caroline Forbes, God” among the Old Deus. It is a Zero. To their surprise, many of the original series. Life: Zero is highly recommended. lawless land in which the lack of the colors in No Game No Life: Another positive element of You can watch this movie on Net- VAMPIRE DIARIES magic and weak bodies of humans Zero are intentionally duller. That the film is its story. One big mis- flix and on Amazon Prime Video. continues on page 8 Page 8, The Quill Variety March 22, 2021 YEARBOOK continued from page 3 Power sequel Ghost is an excellent drama “[It was hard] not being sure of what sections of the yearbook Power Book II: Ghost, which debuted in September 2020, features the further adventures of many characters from the original series would be able to be completed because of COVID cancellations By ARIEL CHRISTENSEN of certain sports and clubs, as Quill staff writer well as the struggle of staff mem- bers being able to be let into cer- Starz debuted Power Book II: tain sports matches to take pic- Ghost on September 6, 2020. Creat- tures because of COVID seating ed and written by Courtney A. Kemp, restrictions,” Jarjay said. “Plan- Power Book II: Ghost is a spin-off of the ning is everything in yearbook show Power, which ran for six seasons and the unpredictability of this on Starz. Thanks to its release during the school year restricted our plan- pandemic, Power Book II: Ghost has ning ability.” been a big hit that has caught everyone’s After staff members success- attention, whether they are adults or fully gather the information they teenagers. Thanks to its interesting char- need for each page, they then acters and excellent acting, Power Book spend a majority of their time II: Ghost is an excellent drama. in class working on assembling Much like Power, Power Book their assigned pages. II: Ghost is set in New York. The orig- “To put together pages, first I inal series revolved around James St. work on gathering all my photos Patrick, an intelligent drug dealer also or I gather answers to polls that known as “Ghost,” who wishes to leave we put out to students and I sort the criminal world to pursue legitimate all of that based on what I think business interests as a nightclub own- looks best or most interesting,” er. Power Book II: Ghost focuses on Monner said. “After I have all Ghost’s son Tariq, who is all grown up that material, I choose a template and starting college. Over the course of and the headline which goes with the new series, Tariq must deal with his our theme of the year. I put my father’s legacy and the mounting pres- Photo courtesy of STARZ pictures on and organize them to sure to protect his family, including his Between its complex plot, engaging themes and strong acting, Ghost has a lot to offer viewers. my liking, then add captioning to mother Tasha. pictures and end-of-season sum- One highlight of the new series is its Another effective element in the again, Tasha is being taken away from In fact, Kane had recently tried to set maries, which I take from asking complicated plot, which keeps viewers show is how it deals with the theme of her son, but their family bond remains something up in order for Tariq to get captains and their teammates. Fi- interested to see what will happen next. A family. This theme can be seen when intact. This court hearing scene helps killed. However, Kane’s plot does not nally, [I add] last-minute details good example of this is can be seen when Tariq’s mom, Tasha, is in the process the viewer feel the energy in the room work out and the family discovers what to make the page more interest- Tariq is attending his classes at Stansfield of being accused of her husband’s as they are watching and makes it clear he has done. Kane is kicked out and has ing and eye catching.” University. The school has a parents’ murder. Even though it is his freshman that the theme of family is important to to say goodbye to his sister. This is an Despite the many obsta- night and all of Tariq’s classmates have year of college, Tariq wants to help his the show. emotional scene and the performance of cles faced by the Talons crew their parents with them, whether it is just mom in every way he can because he A third element that makes the each actor involved makes it feel realistic this year, the yearbook is almost one parent or both. However, Tariq’s cur- loves her. He shows up to all of her show appealing is the acting. A really and powerful. ready for publication. rent family situation means his parents court dates, talks to many people, and Powerful acting scene is in the last epi- Overall, Power Book II: Ghost is “We are nearly done creat- are not able to be there. That is because does whatever he can do on the outside sode of season one when Kane, some- an excellent show that should appeal to ing the book, as we usually go to his dad, Ghost, has recently been mur- in order to support her case. There is one who doesn’t like Tariq, betrays his fans of Power and to people just discov- print in early April in order for dered, and his mom, Tasha, has just been one scene in particular when his mom sister’s trust. Tariq was recently brought ering the franchise. The show features the books to arrive by the end arrested as a possible suspect in that mur- has a court date to decide if she will be into the gang scene by some of his dad’s shocking plot twists, great themes and of May,” Obranovich said. “We der. Not surprisingly, this turn of events released on parole. During this scene, old partners. Tariq has been taking orders excellent acting. Power Book II: Ghost have gone through three dead- puts Tariq in a semi-depressed state. As we see that Tariq and his mother have from the family for a while and they see shows that people can be going through lines and only have one remain- a viewer, it feels like you are in the same high hopes for her situation, but they him almost as family. However, there is so many things that others would never ing.” room with Tariq as he deals with this un- are soon disappointed by the news one person who doesn’t see Tariq this notice. Power Book II: Ghost deserves The process of successfully fortunate situation. that should will not be released. Once way, and that is his older brother, Kane. five out of five stars. bringing the 2020-2021 yearbook to its conclusion has helped the Talons staff bond with each other. MCU makes successful shift to small screen with Wanda “The class is fun,” Sch- eveck said. “Everyone usually The highly anticipated Disney+ series WandaVision mostly lives up to its considerable hype and expands the Marvel universe becomes good friends because we get to collaborate on pages By NOLAN ANDLER and hint at things viewers can expect in and come up with ideas together. Quill staff writer future episodes of the show and upcom- It’s a great way to become more ing MCU films. Marvel Studios released its involved and leave your mark on At the same time, WandaVision first-ever Marvel Cinematic Universe the school.” falls short in a few areas. First, the show (MCU) show for Disney+ on Janu- Another benefit of having seems to struggle with time manage- ary 15, WandaVision. The show is the worked on the yearbook this year ment, with some episodes featuring second MCU installment that happens is the feeling of connection to the nine-minute credit sequences. Second, after the events of Avengers: Infinity school that it helped provide to the show does not capitalize on the po- War and Avengers: Endgame, which the staff members. tential of more directly setting up two saw Thanos kill Vision in order to get “At a time when students highly anticipated MCU films to which the Infinity Stone that was implanted in feel isolated and disconnected WandaVision is supposed to connect: him to give him life. This fact has view- from the staff and student body, Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of ers new to WandaVision asking: how is joining yearbook is integral to Madness and Spiderman: No Way Vision alive? One entertaining aspect of enhancing school spirit,” Jarjay Home. But perhaps the biggest short- this largely good show is finding out the said. “The course increases your coming is how WandaVision handled answer to that question. awareness of the diversity of the Wanda’s brother, Quicksilver. When you watch the first three school pertaining to clubs, sports, Photo courtesy of WALT DISNEY STUDIOS Quicksilver is a character who has episodes of WandaVision, the show appeared both in the MCU and in the faculty and the student body.” WandaVision pays tribute to many famous sitcoms of the past. seems kind of weird. The plot is about According to Monner, get- X-Men films produced by 20th Centu- Wanda and Vision living life after the ting involved in yearbook is also who appeared in the film Ant Man and Avengers: Infinity War. Thanks to Eliza- ry Fox. In the MCU, Quicksilver was “blip,” which is the event in which half a way for students to leave a leg- The Wasp, and Darcy Lewis, who was beth Olsen’s great performance, viewers played by Aaron-Taylor Joy and met his of life in the universe was destroyed by acy at Cooper. featured in the Thor movies. More im- witness Wanda’s internal struggles after end in Avengers: Age of Ultron by sacri- Thanos but then brought back by Tony “Years from now, people can portantly, this episode also unveils that losing someone she loved. We also get to ficing himself to save Hawkeye. Mean- Stark during Avengers: Infinity War and look back at their yearbook and the sitcoms we watched during the first learn more information about Wanda’s while, in the Fox universe, Quicksilver Avengers: Endgame. However, Wanda remember what it was like and three episodes are actually the result of a past and how bad it was. These emotion- was played by Evan Peters throughout and Vision’s existence is portrayed like how each individual activity was hex that Wanda set up around Westview, al elements of the show really got to me. the three most recent X-Men movies. old cheesy sitcoms from different de- remembered in that year,” she New Jersey. The show then centers on WandaVision also does a good When Disney recently bought Fox, cades, starting with The Dick Van Dyke said. “With more students’ help, the mystery of how and why Wanda has job with its cliff hangers and post-cred- MCU fans were hoping for an eventual Show from the early 1960s. it would bring better perspectives done this. it scenes, which leave the audience X-Men crossover, which WandaVision While this is both entertaining and more creativity and ideas One highlight of WandaVision is shocked and excited. For example, in seems like it was providing when it cast and confusing, it is during the show’s to our team, creating the best the cinematic quality of its production the last scene of episode three, we see the Evan Peters to play Wanda’s brother in fourth episode that things start getting yearbook possible of your high and special effects. Much like the Star sitcom version of Monica get thrown out several episodes. However, the use and good and the show more clearly con- school years.” Wars spinoff show The Mandalorian, of the hex by Wanda. This is what leads fate of the Quicksilver character in Wan- nects to the MCU. During episode four, WandaVision has the look and feel of to our knowledge of the world outside of daVision is ultimately a let down. which takes place outside of the sitcom a Marvel movie and not some cheap the hex, which sets up the pivotal fourth Overall, I definitely recommend VAMPIRE DIARIES world, we meet the grown-up version of show. From scenes in which Wanda episode. WandaVision, but don’t get your hopes continued from page 7 Monica Rambeau, who is the daughter and Vision display their powers, to battle Another highlight of the show is its up too high. The show does a good job of Maria Rambo, a character from the sequences involving the hex, it is easy to many Easter eggs for fans of the MCU. of filling the MCU void that has been Kat Graham as Bonnie Bennet, 2019 film Captain Marvel. Episode four forget it is just a TV show. Perhaps the best example of this is the se- caused by the pandemic and the delay of Zach Roerig as Matt Donovan, also brings viewers into S.W.O.R.D., The show also does a good job ries of fake commercials that air during the upcoming Marvel movies. Howev- Steven R. McQueen as Jeremy Gil- the agency that Rambo founded, and with character development and acting. the sitcom episodes. These ads symbol- er, there are some things about the show bert, Mathew Davis as Alaric Saltz- introduces into the show two other fa- A big focus of the show is the grief that ize issues being faced by Wanda, made that left me disappointed. WandaVision man and Michael Trevino as Tyler miliar characters: FBI agent Jimmy Wu, Wanda experiences after losing Vision in reference to past movies in the MCU deserves 3.5 out of five stars. Lockwood. It is their performances that keep the shows grounded and help the audiences stay invested in HAWKS RETURN TO COOPER FOLLOWING SPRING BREAK continued from page 1 what happens. dents will once again be able to “Filmed labs [and] demos lose she is excited to collaborate with her Nguyen said. Overall, I recommend the three work with teachers and staff face to a lot of their excitement,” Haw- classmates again face to face. Ac- Nguyen also said he enjoys us- shows in the Vampire Diaries uni- face, allowing students the chance kinson said. “It’s not fun to watch cording to Lehnertz, she has strug- ing his personal computer because verse. I enjoy all the different things to get more immediate feedback someone else do the lab.” gled to express her ideas through it is “much faster” than the school that are going on with each show’s on course work due to their ability From the student perspective, the computer screen and feels as if Chromebooks and it has more func- characters, their backstories and the to access teachers and the resources Sarah Lehnertz (12) said she is she hasn’t been completely focused tions. different supernatural beings. It’s available in the building. looking forward to being back in this year. “The Chromebooks are hon- a great series of shows for people Science teacher Ms. Hawkin- the building. Contrary to Lehnertz, Darius estly too slow and have limited who are into vampires, werewolves son said she is looking forward to “I find I learn much better in Nguyen (12) is remaining with the functions, so having a good com- and any other supernatural-related seeing students’ faces rather than real life and would like to be as pre- Distance Learning Plus model for puter at home helps,” Nguyen said. things. The three shows also have a their “icons” on Google Meet. One pared as possible for IB tests as well the remainder of the school year. As many students return to bit of romance, and what’s a vam- of the biggest struggles for her class as college classes next year,” Leh- “I’m choosing to remain in dis- school and others stay home, Coo- pire show without romance? For specifically has been doing labs nertz said. “[In-person] learning will tance learning because I prefer the per has decided to stick with the these many reasons, all three shows when students are not face to face in help me get on track tremendously.” freedom [of] being at home all the alternating-day block schedule with earn five out of five stars. the classroom. Lehnertz also mentioned that time and doing whatever I want,” Wednesday support days. March 22, 2021 Sports Page 9, The Quill Gamers form Esports team Cooper Competitors The story of the athletes who strive for success in Cooper sports Cooper students prepare to take on area rivals in Rocket League season through MNVL Deante Porter By FAITH KING “Whenever someone needs help Quill staff writer with a move or something, I always try to help,” he said. Deante Porter (12) is a three-sport Prior to the wrestling season, Por- athlete at Cooper. He competes in football ter played football in the fall. He said the in the fall, wrestling during the winter and season went well but “things still could’ve track in the spring. gone better.” Porter is currently in his sixth As for his upcoming track season, year of wrestling. Porter said he is looking for- “The reason I started ward to it after the 2020 sea- was because my big brother son was canceled due to the was wrestling so my mom pandemic. wanted me to try it out and I “I think things will go did,” he said. pretty good this season,” Por- According to Porter, the ter said. thing he has enjoyed most During school, Porter’s about wrestling is watching favorite subject is art, which his teammates win. What is Photo by LIFETOUCH he finds “relaxing.” When more, Porter said one of his it comes to his outside-of- favorite memories from wres- school interests, Porter said he tling was coming to Cooper to practice has been “staying inside, watching movies with his older teammates when he was and playing games” due to COVID. Photo courtesy of MNVL.ORG still a middle schooler. Porter plans to attend college next fall to become a dental hygienist. He also The number of schools taking part in Minnesota Varsity League (MNVL) gaming seasons has been increasing. As a senior on the team, Porter said he tries to be a leader. plans to continue with his three sports . By ANDREW HAGGE our school into competitions. ficial school sport gets tossed around Quill staff writer “He walked me through how to more and more,” James said. “The collect the necessary student infor- cool thing about the club is that it Majay Murphy Cooper started up an Esports mation, how to register our school to is student created and student led. club in February with the hopes that compete in the league and, overall, Students form their own teams, elect By FAITH KING all my little brothers,” he said. participating students will be able to how to run a club like this in a virtual team captains and decide on start- Quill staff writer Murphy said he has had many fa- compete in games ranging from Call setting,” James said. ers. As the club continues to grow, vorite basketball memories. However, of Duty to Rocket League against Another step was to establish dedicated teams could host practic- Majay Murphy (12) plays bas- one that stood out was dunking the ball players from other schools. Mr. the group as an official club at Coo- es, team meetings and even receive ketball at Cooper. Murphy has been during a freshman year game against Oelfke, Cooper’s activities director, per through the help of Oelfke and coaching.” playing basketball since he was in fourth Benilde-St. Margaret’s. said that the club offers new oppor- the Activities Office. At the moment, the club has grade. Outside of the winter season, Mur- tunities for students to get involved “The Esports group has club two registered Rocket League “My big brother, Shyah Murphy, phy continues to play basketball with his in school events. status at Cooper,” Oelfke said. “To teams set up for competitive play made me play basketball AAU team. “We are always looking for gain club status, you need to apply in the new MNVL season, which with him and I just led on When it comes to more opportunities for our students for approval from the administra- starts on March 22. The MNVL is from there,” Murphy said. school, Murphy’s favorite to get involved in our school,” Oelfke tion. The main pieces to getting ap- the Esports league for high schools As a returning senior, subjects are journalism and said. “This club offers a chance to proved are: having an adult advisor in Minnesota. They host compe- Murphy believes being a English. Meanwhile, some meet other students with similar in- in place, enough student interest and, titions for Call of Duty, Chess, strong leader and setting an of his favorite hobbies in- terests, which can lead to a complete, if not virtual, a space or classroom Rocket League, Super Smash Bros., example for younger players clude working out and overall school experience” to meet. The advisor is voluntary as Overwatch and Minecraft between is important. working to earn money. Leading the new club is math there currently no budget or funding all participating schools in the state. “Just showing the After graduating, Mur- teacher Mr. James. He said the group for club-level activities.” Helping support the league are Al- young heads how to be Photo by LIFETOUCH phy said his plan is to go to a is focused on all aspects of gaming. Once the club was officially pine Esports, Minnesota Esports tough in all situations and be- junior college and “get built “The purpose of the club is to established, Kaeden Knoblauch (10) Club and Leaguespot. In addition, ing about your brotherhood there.” He plans to continue provide a space for Cooper students created a flyer in the advisory slide Alpine Esports provides resourc- because we are all you got,” he said. working hard and eventually transfer to a to come together to compete in, play show on Mondays to see who was es for broadcasts of gameplay and What Murphy has enjoyed most D1 school to play basketball. and discuss video games,” he said. interested in joining. According to commentary. about basketball is developing relation- “I won’t be playing basketball my James said his involvement in James, during the informational Along with the two estab- ships with all of his teammates. whole life,” he said. “Basketball isn’t my the group began when he was ap- meeting that was eventually held, lished Rocket League teams, James “It’s literally the best and they are life. I have family to look out for.” proached by a Cooper student who nearly 40 students showed up and is hopeful that more teams will be asked James if he wanted to be the more students continue to join the created for the other different games. advisor for the club. club each week. Students who are interested in join- David Osayameh “I’ve never played video games With the club established, it ing the Cooper Esports club can con- competitively nor been a part of an was up to the students to create and tact James at brady_james@rdale. By FAITH KING Prior to the start of the Cooper bas- Esports club, but I do enjoy playing form their own competitive teams. org for more information. Quill staff writer ketball season, Osayameh played fall them myself so I agreed to help out,” They get to choose the team captain “The advisor is knowledgeable basketball. James said. as well as form the roster of which and helpful in developing what they David Osayameh (12) plays on “I played for Cooper fall ball and it After James agreed to help, he members are starting and which are are interested in and works on the the Cooper basketball team. Osayameh went great,” he said. met with Jake Utities, the director the backups. relationship pieces between staff and has been playing basketball since he During the spring, Osayameh con- of the Minnesota Varsity League “As more students join the club students,” Oelfke said. “This club was in eighth grade. tinues to play basketball, competing with (MNVL), to find out what informa- and choose to compete, the idea that has been a very positive addition for “My mother is the reason why I his AAU team. This spring, he also plans tion he needed and how to register the club will be established as an of- students, especially this year.” started playing basketball,” to run track at Cooper. Osayameh said. During the school day, Osayameh said the Osayameh said his favorite Wild season heading in positive direction team aspect of the sport is subject is algebra. As new players have developed more chemistry, the wins have started to accumulate what he has enjoyed most “I love solving prob- about basketball. lems and enjoy it,” he said. By ANDREW HAGGE Glass was removed from penalty Kaprizov are leading the way in “Cooper is a great Outside of school, Quill staff writer boxes and benches to increase air- goals at 10 a piece as of March 13. school and the team is amaz- Osayameh enjoys spending flow. Additionally, the NHL asked While these are positive signs ing. They play hard and we’re time with his family, playing The Minnesota Wild are off to teams to issue N95 masks to the for the offense, the Wild have strug- like family,” Osayameh said. Photo by D. OSAYAMEH video games and exercising. a strong start in their first 18 games players and staff. Another change gled with power plays. In fact, there Osayameh’s favorite Next fall, Osayameh with 12 wins and six losses. After was the reconfiguration of team was one point in the season when basketball memories include plans on going to a D1 junior roster changes in the off season and dressing rooms to provide more the team went 0-18 in power plays. his first time playing varsity his sopho- college to major in general engineering or the acquisition of new players, the space for social distancing. Final- Attempting to fix the power play more year and his first playoff game. civil engineering. He also plans on playing Wild are looking like they may be ly, the NHL added game day rapid issue, TwinCities.com reported that “It was a playoff game against Ano- basketball during college. able to keep their winning ways go- testing around the league as an extra head coach Dean Evason decided to ka. It was my first playoff game and I had “Basketball isn’t just a game, it’s my ing. At the same time, there are still layer of protection. go with an abnormal strategy of just 26 points and a win against them,” he said. life, and I love the game,” he said. areas of uncertainty for the team Once the Wild were able to skating each line as usual instead of and various issues they loading with maximum will need to address go- firepower. It is expected Andrea Tribble ing forward. that once the Wild can Perhaps the big- After roster changes in the off get rolling with that they By FAITH KING lot of home workouts and using outside gest obstacle so far season and the acquisition of will go back to a tradi- Quill staff writer courts,” Tribble said. this season involved new players, the Wild are look- tional tactic of stacking When it comes to school, Tribble’s COVID-19. Off to a the rotations during a Andrea Tribble (12) plays basket- favorite class is AVID. promising start over ing like they may be able to keep power play. With an ball at Cooper. She has been playing bas- “It really prepares us for life in the first few weeks of their winning ways going. At the irregular season comes ketball since she was in fourth grade and college and beyond, and I have the best the season, the Wild irregular tactics, and this is her fifth year playing for the Hawks. AVID teacher, Ms. Wineberg,” she said. suddenly had to put same time, there are still areas that is what the Wild are Tribble said that playing basket- Outside of school, Tribble enjoys multiple players on the of uncertainty for the team. looking to do in order to ball has given her confidence being involved in the com- COVID protocol list. In address their ineffective and life-long connections. She munity. fact, at one point, there power plays. added that her favorite mem- “I love to be involved were 13 Wild players With only 25 games ory from basketball was win- in the community and just on the protocol list, not to mention hit the ice again with practice and played out the scheduled 56, the ning a state championship for create things [like] paintings many more on other teams, which began to slowly take players off Wild still have a lot of season in Cooper in 2018. [and] podcasts,” she said. forced the NHL to make some the protocol list, they were able to front of them as they enter the sec- Tribble currently has a Tribble plans to attend changes. The NHL initially decid- play their first game back. During ond half of March. However, with leadership role on the team college next fall and major ed to cancel four games in early the first game back, they lost to the the team sitting in second place be- as one of the senior captains. in political science while on February, but when the COVID LA Kings 4-0 after 14 days of iso- hind the Vegas Golden Knights in “It is going well. We Photo by ANDREA TRIBBLE a pre-law track to eventually protocol list got longer instead of lation. However, after that loss, the the West Division, the Wild are in a have all known each other become a civil rights attor- shorter, the NHL postponed an ad- Wild won three games in a row, two great place in the standings. Hope- since we were young, so it ney. Tribble also said she ditional two games. of which they won by four goals. fully, they will be able to capitalize really feels like a family,” she said. will be continuing with basketball. Due to the problem of not According to NHL.com, Kirill on their momentum and move for- During the off season, Tribble con- “I’m going to college on a bas- being able to contain and stop the Kaprizov and Jordan Greenway are ward with victories over their West tinues to train for basketball. ketball scholarship and I plan on using spread of the disease, many logisti- currently leading the Wild in points. Division rivals to carry on into the “This year was a little different basketball to get me through college cal changes were made by the NHL. Additionally, Joel Eriksson Ek and postseason. with COVID and training consisted of a debt-free,” she said. Page 10, The Quill Sports March 22, 2021 TECH TIPS continued from page 2 NFL successfully makes it through playoffs are wanting to open. If you are still having issues, you can try to close While the Super Bowl may have been a dud, the games leading up to it had some exciting twists and turns and reopen the Kami document in Schoology or refresh your Chrome By NOLAN ANDLER browser. If those steps do not work, Quill staff writer you can try to log out of Schoology After quarterback Patrick Ma- and log back in. Another possible homes led the Kansas City Chiefs solution is to restart your Chrome to a 31-20 win over the San Fran- browser or clear your Chrome cisco 49ers in Super Bowl LIV on cache. Restarting your computer February 2, 2020, it started to look might also be necessary. like that was going to be the last football game to kickoff until the Attending class through a Google 2021-2022 season due to the surging Meet COVID-19 pandemic over the off- A large number of students season. However, the NFL was able will be staying in distance learn- to get through the 2020-2021 sea- ing even after the transition to son, which culminated with a 31-9 in-person learning starts in April. Tampa Bay Buccaneer victory over That means Google Meet sessions the Kansas City Chiefs on February will remain the primary way that 7, 2021 in Super Bowl LV. students access classes and their The NFL’s ability to get teachers during the school day. If through the most recent season you are having trouble getting into stemmed from a lot of changes a Google Meet, remember to make made prior to and during the sea- sure that you use the correct nick- son itself. For example, the April name for the class and period of the 2020 NFL draft was held virtually, class you are hoping to join. Also, team practices were restricted, the be sure that you are spelling the preseason was canceled, players nickname correctly. Copying and and coaches followed COVID pasting the code right from your guidelines, and stadiums were Photo courtesy of GETTY IMAGES teacher’s Schoology page can also empty or at reduced capacity. Although their uniforms were different this year, Rob Gronkowski and Tom Brady won yet another Super Bowl ring. help ensure your spelling is correct. One additional change that set up Another potential issue with the playoffs allowed seven teams Team was definitely the most resil- without a fight. In fact, he ended No. 5 Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Google Meet is when the program from both conferences to advance, ient team this season. In addition up going 47-68 for 501 yards and No. 2 New Orleans Saints (NFC) lags or freezes during use. The best which meant that only one team, to a name change after the racial four touchdowns. Unfortunately, it There was a lot of hype around solution for this is logging out and the number one seed, would get injustice issues that happened over wasn’t enough as the Browns held this game, which pitted Drew Brees logging back in. If that does not the first-round bye instead of the the summer, the team also saw on to win 48-37. For the Cleveland against Tom Brady. While the help, restarting Chrome or restart- top two seeds. By the time the coach Ron Rivera battle and beat Browns franchise and the city of Saints smacked around the Bucca- ing the computer might do the trick. regular season wrapped up and cancer over the season. When the Cleveland, it was a great win. neers both times they played in the Also effective is using your phone the playoffs came around, the 14 playoffs arrived, so did additional regular season, this time the Bucs for the Google Meet instead of the teams that fought their way into adversity when it was revealed on The Divisional Round: No. 6 Los played much better. Brady went Chromebook. the playoffs in the NFC were the the morning of this playoff game Angeles Rams at No. 1 Green 18-33 for 199 yards and two touch- No. 1 Green Bay Packers, the No. that starting quarterback Alex Bay Packers (NFC) downs, and the Bucs defense took Going to class with Zoom 2 New Orleans Saints, the No. 3 Smith was not going to play. So There was a lot of hype around care of the Saints offense, intercept- While some teachers use Goo- Seattle Seahawks, the No. 4 Wash- it was up to backup quarterback this game thanks to the matchup be- ing Brees three times while limiting gle Meet, others have switched to ington Football Team, the No. 5 Taylor Heinicke to lead Wash- tween a top-ranked Rams defense him to 19-34 for 134 yards and one Zoom. In order to get into a given Tampa Bay Buccaneers, the No. ington against a loaded Tampa led by defensive tackler Aaron touchdown. The Bucs earned their class using Zoom, be sure to visit that 6 Los Angeles Rams and the No. Bay team. Surprisingly, Heinicke Donald and a top-ranked Packers way into the NFC Championship teacher’s Schoology page to find and 7 Chicago Bears. Meanwhile, in almost did so by going 26-44 for offense led by quarterback Aaron with a final score of 30-20, while click on the Zoom link. Since it is the AFC, it was the No. 1 Kansas 306 yards and one touchdown. Of Rodgers, wide receiver Davante the Saints went home for the sea- likely the teacher has Zoom links for City Chiefs, No. 2 Buffalo Bills, course, the only issue was that, on Adams and corner Jalen Ramsey. son, soon getting word that Brees’ different periods of the same class, be No. 3 Pittsburgh Steelers, No. 4 the other side, the Buccaneers had In the end, the Packers were just illustrious career had come to a sure you are clicking on the correct Tennessee Titans, No. 5 Baltimore Tom Brady, and he played better, too good, winning 32-18. Rodgers close with his decision to retire. one. If you are still having issues, you Ravens, No. 6 Cleveland Browns leading the Bucs to a 31-23 win had another flawless performance, should verify that you are connected and No. 7 Indianapolis Colts. going 23-36 for 296 yards and The Conference Championships: through the district’s Zoom website. No. 6 Baltimore Ravens at No. 3 two touchdowns against the No. 1 No. 5 Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Once you are in the proper Super Wild Card Weekend Tennessee Titans (AFC) defense in the NFL. Of course, it No. 1 Green Bay Packers (NFC) Zoom, it is possible you might run The 2020-2021 playoffs start- Last year, the underdog Ti- didn’t help the Rams that Donald Brady vs. Rodgers for a trip to into issues with lagging or freezing. ed with what the NFL called Super tans went into Baltimore and de- had a rib injury and quarterback Super Bowl LV. What more could Much like users of Google Meet, Wild Card Weekend. This phase of molished the Ravens thanks to a Jared Goff was dealing with a you ask for? When the two teams you can try logging out and logging the playoffs is usually just called brilliant rushing performance by thumb injury on his throwing arm. played in the regular season, Tam- back in, restarting Chrome or the Wild Card Weekend, during which running back Derrick Henry. This pa demolished Green Bay 38-10, laptop, or using your smartphone to the No. 4 and No. 5 seeds, and the year, it was a very different story No. 5 Baltimore Ravens at No. 2 but both teams had improved since dial into class. No. 3 and No. 6 seeds, face off, for the two teams. While Henry Buffalo Bills (AFC) that game. While this one started off but with the extension of teams was held to just 40 yards on 18 It was a defensive game for competitive, the Bucs capitalized Solving Chromebook hardware in 2020-2021, the new name was carries, Ravens quarterback Lamar the first two quarters with both on the offensive and defensive side, issues used because, for fans, there were Jackson went 17-24 for 179 yards teams tied 3-3 going into half. eventually going up 28-10. Howev- As a physical device, Chrome- three meaningful football games passing, and had 16 carries for 136 However, in the third quarter, Buf- er, the Packers fought back, closing books can have mechanical and on both days of the weekend. yards and a touchdown running, falo pulled ahead thanks to a Ste- the lead to 28-23 in the third. After electrical issues that you may not leading the Ravens to a 20-13 win. fon Diggs touchdown reception Tampa Bay scored another field goal be able to fix on your own. If you No. 7 Indianapolis Colts in the fourth quarter, Green are experiencing issues with turn- at No. 2 Buffalo Bills Bay head coach Matt Laf- ing on the device or getting the (AFC) Aside from the Patrick Mahomes vs. Tom leur took some heat when microphone or speakers to work, Bills quarterback Josh he decided to kick a field you should call the Cooper Media Allen dominated this Brady hype for the game, Super Bowl LV goal to make it a 31-26 Center at 763-504-8511 or fill out game, throwing for two wasn’t anything special. The Buccaneers game instead of letting a “DL Technology Support Request touchdowns and rush- Rodgers try to go for the tie. Form.” You should also use those ing in for another. At the took advantage of being on their home That ended up being the fi- two resources if your battery is no same time, the Colts had turf and dominated in a 31-9 blowout win. nal score, sending the Bucs longer keeping its charge or you their chances to win, but to the Super Bowl. Overall, lose your charger. When it comes to they fell short on a key neither quarterback played your Chromebook, the sooner you fourth down conversion, well, with Rodgers making address the hardware problems, the rookie kicker Rodrigo Blanken- This was Jackson’s first playoff from quarterback Josh Allen and some bad throws and Brady having sooner you can get back to doing ship missed a field goal, and quar- win after being “one and done” in a pick-six that Ravens quarterback three straight interceptions. your classwork. terback Philip Rivers was unable the playoffs two years in a row. Lamar Jackson threw to Bills cor- to find anyone in the red zone on nerback Taron Johnson. Making No. 2 Buffalo Bills at No. 1 Kan- PERSONAL PROJECTS a last-second, Hail Mary pass at- No. 7 Chicago Bears at No. 2 matters worse for the Ravens, sas City Chiefs continued from page 2 tempt. The Bills went on to win New Orleans Saints (NFC) placekicker Justin Tucker doinked Aside from the Chiefs’ slow Schaffer said. 27-24 and advance in the playoffs. While this game looked close two kicks off the goalposts. Even- start, nothing really exciting hap- One strategy Schaffer pointed to during the first half, it was all tually, the Bills won 17-3. pened in this game. After trading that has helped Ranstrom experience No. 6 Los Angeles Rams at No. 3 Saints from that point on. Perhaps scores throughout most of the game, success on the project has been stay- Seattle Seahawks (NFC) the biggest moment was when No. 6 Cleveland Browns at No. 1 the Chiefs eventually demonstrat- ing on top of her deadlines. These two teams met back Bears wide receiver Javon Wims Kansas City Chiefs (AFC) ed that they were simply the better “Amalia was always really good in week 16 and it was an ugly, dropped what would have been a The Browns faced the daunt- team, winning by a final score of about following up with her meetings physical game that saw the Sea- game-tying touchdown. This drop ing task of playing the Chiefs at 38-24. Unfortunately for the Bills and taking care of business on her hawks grind out a 20-9 win. This sealed the Bears’ fate, and from Arrowhead Stadium. At first, it Mafia, their dream season came to a end,” Schaffer said. rematch was kind of the same, but that point on, they just weren’t as looked like the Chiefs were going close as the Chiefs advanced to yet Ranstrom agreed with Schaffer the Rams offense had a better per- good as the Saints, who ended up to run away with it when they took another Super Bowl appearance. that staying organized was important formance. After quarterback John winning 21-9. The Saints’ victory a 19-3 lead in the first half. Help- as she worked on the project. She Wolford went down and was taken came from great performances by ing the Chiefs with this early lead Super Bowl LV: No. 1 Kansas also had some additional advice to to the hospital due to a nasty hit to their defense and the offensive duo was a controversial moment when City Chiefs vs. No. 5 Tampa Bay students who work on the project in the head, Jared Goff had a decent of quarterback Drew Brees and Chiefs safety Dan Sorensen initi- Buccaneers future years. day, going 9-19 for 155 yards and running back Alvin Kamara. An- ated but was not penalized for a Aside from the Mahomes vs. "Take advantage of the Personal a touchdown. Also shouldering other notable aspect of this game helmet-to-helmet hit on Browns Brady hype for the game, Super Project to do something that you’ve the load for the Rams was run- was that it was simulcast on Nick- wide receiver Rashard Higgins Bowl LV wasn’t anything special. already wanted to do, as I did," she ning back Cam Akers, who had 28 elodeon. right when Higgins was about to The Buccaneers took advantage of said. "I also recommend that you carries for 131 yards and a touch- score a touchdown, which resulted being on their home turf and domi- manage your time well while doing down. Led by Aaron Donald, the No. 6 Cleveland Browns at No. 3 in a fumble. However, the Browns nated in a 31-9 blowout win. For a your project. Maybe try having a Rams defense also played a huge Pittsburgh Steelers (AFC) slowly crept back, nearly evening team that has had some recent hor- calendar or specific tasks you want role in keeping Seahawks quar- This game showed that the up the score 22-17 in the second rible seasons, this was great win for to complete every week. Lastly, terback Russell Wilson and his Browns are no longer the bottom half. Making matters worse for the Bucs. Making this more impres- communication and responsibility offense in check. Ultimately, the feeders of the NFL. After an ex- the Chiefs, Patrick Mahomes went sive was the fact that Brady got his are very important." Rams advanced with a 30-20 win. tremely sloppy start by the Steel- down with a concussion, putting seventh Super Bowl win thanks to Students who are interested in ers, it looked like the Browns were the game in jeopardy. Fortunately a strong performance in which he learning more about the Personal No. 5 Tampa Bay Buccaneers going to run away with the game, for the Chiefs, backup quarterback went 21-29 for 201 yards and three Project can contact Ms. Meyer, who at No. 4 Washington Football going up 28-0 in the first quarter. Chad Henne did just enough to touchdowns. Fittingly, Brady won works in the IB office, at jodie_mey- Team (NFC) However, Steelers quarterback Ben help close out this game with a fi- the MVP, further cementing the case [email protected]. The Washington Football Roethlisberger did not go down nal score of 22-17. that he is football’s G.O.A.T.