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Stillwater Area High School 5709 Stillwater Blvd N, Oak Park Heights, MN Mar. 12, 2020 Vol. 65 Issue 4 THE

COVID-19 vaccination prioritizes Teachers Mikai Tasch

“I have an additional line of defense against COVID, and also the thought of just How do Teachers feel after Getting their Vaccine? doing things that I have not done in, you know, over a How do Teachers feel after Getting their Vaccine? year like. Like, hug my parents you know when they are able to get the vaccine as well,” history teacher Ryan Miller said. Because many teachers, students and families want to go back to school, it has been important for teachers to get vaccinated all around the coun- try. Although the roll out of the vaccine has been slow to begin with around early January, it is picking up pace, which leads to the importance of schools reopening for in-person learning. According to the CDC, the “It was such a relief. “When I went in for my “...Mentally you can COVID-19 Pfizer vaccine is 95 percent effective after both Even though you still first shot, I was nervous. I take deep breath. You doses. With many teachers and families getting the vaccine, have to wear a mask it was so anxious I had to sit still have to wear a the transmission of COVID-19 will greatly be lowered. With feels as though we’re down for a bit after I got it. mask but it’s one last the transmission of COVID-19 lowered, normal activities can making the first steps But after I got over that, it thing to worry about.” resume, such as in-person learning. to returning to normal.” was a feeling of pure joy.” Junior Jana Myers explained how she thinks everyone should get vaccinated at one Laurie Hansen Mary Ticiu Dusty Dennis point so we can get back to normal, hopefully by the late summer or early fall. Furthermore, the vaccination process has been extremely fast and well thought out for many. COVID-19, meaning that your cause I cannot tell as well help lower infection rates of over. As in the game dominoes, Although there is a bit of body would actually be having on Zoom if they’re under- the original COVID-19 type, when one family member gets paperwork to fill out when a better reaction to the vaccine. standing,” Spanish teacher many variants have emerged COVID-19, others do too. arriving at the vaccination Miller talked about how Kirsten Carter said. “I am since, such as variants from “It was definitely a rough site, the actual process of he felt “a little bit more tired much more able to read that the United Kingdom and South experience, especially for my receiving the vaccine is fast. for the first 24 hours.” He in-person in class. It is also Africa. These variants are mom and I because we still Many have been impressed by was still able to do all the harder to tell their comfort known to spread quicker than do not have our taste or smell the efficiency at the vaccina- usual physical activities that level, and to give them the the original, and the various back. And it has been, I do tion site. he does such as running. reassurance and develop COVID-19 vaccines do not not even know, four months,” “I would say that I was very For many world language, that personal connection protect you from these variants Myers said. impressed by the number of music, and art teachers, COV- and the trust.” as much as the original. Many For many teachers, school volunteers who were working. I ID-19 has brought a struggle people’s views of the virus have has been a struggle, as they assume they are volunteers, but regarding how to teach a com- “It was definitely a changed from October to now. have had to reinvent learning. the number of people that were pletely different language, Carter explained how in Oc- The vaccine can change this helping with the vaccine distri- various musical techniques, rough experience, tober, scientists and medical by bringing another layer of bution and just how knowledge- or basic painting and drawing experts were still learning more protection against COVID-19. able everybody was on on where skills remotely on Zoom. The especially for my about treatments and were con- For the time being, make sure to go at the vaccination site, and vaccine will help students get cerned about the severity of it. to wear a mask and physically how helpful they were and how back to school so they are able mom and I be- Although it still can be severe for distance from people by staying smooth the whole operation was to learn in a normal way again. some people, it seems like they at least six feet apart. functioning,” Miller said. Many band, orchestra, and choir cause we still do are able to help more patients “I am very used to inter- With the first dose of the sectionals are starting to have more often. Now, the new COV- acting with all of my kids, vaccine, many do not have physically distanced in-person not have our taste ID-19 variants create a new level every hour, and that was not side effects, and if they do rehearsals already. of concern in a different way. the same, even in hybrid this have side effects, they are “The fact that I teach a or smell back.” Finally, the vaccine will help year. That is the one thing that very subtle. With the second class, almost entirely in a prevent various COVID-19 out- weighs most heavily on me, dose, however, some have different language is cra- Kirsten Carter breaks among family members. that I am not able to read their reported side effects such as zy. Usually, I am able to do Throughout the COVID-19 body language. I am not able to swelling, mild fevers, fatigue, class 99% in Spanish, but Although the various COV- period, it has been known try and express just that warmth and aches. Many of these now I find myself needing ID-19 vaccines such as Pfizer that COVID-19 can strike a of, you know, being close to side effects are symptoms of to use more English be- and Moderna vaccines can family like dominoes falling each other,” Carter said.

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Discover a student whose Find students opinions on the PHOTO CREDIT Stillwater Pony discovering his passion for increased minimum wage PAGE KICKER Express Download our app, Snowboarding Page 8 availible on the iTunes PAGE 4 and Google Play stores 2 March 12, 2021 - The Pony Express News Teachers return to school vaccinated been impressed by the effi- “The fact that I teach a ciency at the vaccination site. class, almost entirely in a “I would say that I was different language is cra- very impressed by the number zy. Usually, I am able to do of volunteers who were work- class 99% in Spanish, but ing. I assume they are volun- now I find myself needing to teers, but the number of peo- use more English because I ple that were helping with the cannot tell as well on Zoom vaccine distribution and just if they’re understanding,” how knowledgeable every- Spanish teacher Kirsten Cart- body was on where to go at er said. “I am much more the vaccination site, and how able to read that in-person helpful they were and how in class. It is also harder to smooth the whole operation tell their comfort level, and was functioning,” Miller said. to give them the reassurance With the first dose of the and develop that personal vaccine, many do not have connection and the trust.” side effects, and if they do Carter explained how have side effects, they are in October, scientists and very subtle. With the second medical experts were still dose, however, some have learning more about treat- reported side effects such as ments and were concerned swelling, mild fevers, fatigue, about the severity of it. Al- and aches. Many of these side though it still can be severe effects are symptoms of COV- for some people, it seems ID-19, meaning that your body like they are able to help would actually be having a more patients more often. better reaction to the vaccine. Now, the new COVID-19 Photo by Abby Thibodeau Miller talked about how variants create a new level he felt “a little bit more tired of concern in a different way. History teacher Ryan Miller displays his CDC issued card certifying that he has received for the first 24 hours.” He “I am very used to inter- the COVID-19 vaccination. Miller was able to receive the vaccine due to an initiative was still able to do all the acting with all of my kids, usual physical activities that every hour, and that was Mikai Tasch the country. Although the roll normal activities can resume, he does such as running. not the same, even in hy- out of the vaccine has been such as in-person learning. For many world language, brid this year. That is the “I have an additional line of slow to begin with around Junior Jana Myers ex- music, and art teachers, COV- one thing that weighs most defense against COVID, and early January, it is picking plained how she thinks every- ID-19 has brought a struggle heavily on me, that I am not also the thought of just doing up pace, which leads to the one should get vaccinated regarding how to teach a com- able to read their body lan- things that I have not done in, importance of schools reo- at one point so we can get pletely different language, guage. I am not able to try you know, over a year like. pening for in-person learning. back to normal, hopefully by various musical techniques, and express just that warmth Like, hug my parents you According to the CDC, the late summer or early fall. or basic painting and drawing of, you know, being close know when they are able to the COVID-19 Pfizer vac- Furthermore, the vaccina- skills remotely on Zoom. The to each other,” Carter said. get the vaccine as well,” his- cine is 95 percent effective tion process has been extreme- vaccine will help students get tory teacher Ryan Miller said. after both doses. With many ly fast and well thought out for back to school so they are able Because many teachers, teachers and families getting many. Although there is a bit to learn in a normal way again. students and families want the vaccine, the transmission of paperwork to fill out when Many band, orchestra, and Read more online to go back to school, it has of COVID-19 will greatly be arriving at the vaccination site, choir sectionals are starting been important for teachers lowered. With the transmis- the actual process of receiving to have physically distanced sahsponyexpress.com to get vaccinated all around sion of COVID-19 lowered, the vaccine is fast. Many have in-person rehearsals already. Counselors provide services in new ways during pandemic John Piekarski your body posture, and your fa- time for students and commu- cial expression. Without these, I nity members to celebrate the have to make unnecessary judg- work counselors do. It may Since their creation in the ment calls,” Piras explained. seem like a small gesture to late 1800s, school counselors For many years, a shift in the most, but counselors around the have almost exclusively in- content of a typical counseling country always appreciate it. teracted with students during meeting has changed with the “It means a lot to people in-person meetings. Now, for seasons. In the spring, the ma- when you’re recognized for the first time in history, counse- jority of students reaching out to your job. Like we, as a com- lors are only able to interact with a counselor are inquiring about munity, appreciate the work students and community mem- standardized testing or chang- that you do,” Piras recalled. bers virtually. This has created ing classes, but as the weather Video conferencing soft- a void of real human interaction gets colder, more and more stu- ware like Google Meet and and has had a negative impact dents begin reaching out with Zoom have been utilized more on the quality of counseling. questions about mental health. than ever during the pandemic. Sydney Piras, counselor “Also because it’s Minne- This new medium has worked for the White Pony Center, sota, we typically see some well for some, but for new stu- misses the in-person con- more requests and more inter- dents and counselors, adjusting nection she got from hav- actions around mental health to this new form of commu- Photo by Cassidy Gilliam ing students in her office. in the winter,” Piras explained. nication has been a challenge. “It’s not just what you’re National School Coun- Piras has had to learn to Guidance counselors Becky Hopper and Sandy Weaver saying, it’s your tone of voice, seling week took place Feb. accept that some things are work hard in their offices to provide support for students. first through fifth and was a out of her control during the pandemic. “For example, teacher relationships during Gabor explained. “Because there are times where I’m online class. Since accessing you don’t have that kind of having a very deep and chal- teachers is more difficult dur- in class connection with the lenging conversation with ing online school, students are teachers, you can’t just ask the students and I don’t see now more inclined to send an a quick question in class.” their faces at all,” Piras said. email to their counselor who Education about the role of Students have been reach- they have a relationship with. school counselors is more im- ing out to counselors more “There are office hours, portant now than ever. Coun- frequently this year than in the but I feel more inclined selors provide support for both past. One reason for this is the to go to the counselor just college planning and emotion- difficulty of creating student through an email or some- al well being. Being unbiased, thing like that,” junior Soren neutral and non-judgemental are all parts of the job for a school counselor and they will never complain about more people taking advan- tage of the support they offer. Whether students are going through something or not, Pi- ras believes it’s often a good thing to talk to someone un- biased. She hopes that coun- seling never gets taken away and people always have access to the resources they need.

Feature March 12, 2021 - The Pony Express 3 Stillwater’s own piece of heaven: alumni keeps dream bakery open during lock-down

Sophie MacDonald Currently, the bakery is the window. It’s an easy, safe, open Friday and Saturday outdoor option! They also Hannah’s Homemade from 7 a.m. -2 p.m., which have the best and freshest do- Heavens, located near the was a huge change from the nuts!” Phillips said. corner of Churchill and bakery’s pre-pandemic hours. In the future, Hannah Fourth St S., has continued Another big change was the hopes that she will be able to to please customers with de- store front; customers used to allow customers inside again. licious baked goods amidst be able to walk into the store However, they will only fully the COVID-19 pandemic. and gaze at all the goodies in open back up if it is safe. Un- Owner Hannah Fazendin the display case. Now, there is til then, customers will con- opened the bakery at age 19 a walk up window counter top tinue to enjoy the fresh baked in October 2015. Hannah’s to keep everyone safe. goods from outside the store Homemade Heavens was “The biggest challenge open five days a week, and has been to ensure that served decadent cookies, cup- everything stays clean and cakes, doughnuts and almost sanitized between customers. any baked good one could It used to take a little remind- think of. However, when 2020 ing, but now it has become rolled around the bakery was almost second nature to wear affected by the lockdowns masks, wash hands, and wipe and rising covid cases, it even down counter tops after every had to close at one point. customer,” Fazendin said. “In the beginning we Customers have been thought it was just going to very supportive of Hannah’s pass and we had hope that we Homemade Heavens, despite could stay open. Eventually the changes. Frequent visitor the cases just kept climbing of the bakery Kari Phillips and we closed for a couple and her family love to get months to regroup and en- treats at the bakery, especially courage everyone to stay on the weekend. home and stay safe,” Fa- “I like that I can take my Graphic by Rachel Palmer zendin said. kids there and order through Fitzpatrick brings fresh perspectives to Afton Lakeland

ally got her feet wet in the Mason Buck school district. She could not be more There are few minor- satisfied with her role in ity staff members in the working with so many great Stillwater school district, people. She feels honored and Afton-Lakeland Ele- to take on many tasks be- mentary secretary, Foua cause they lead to meeting Fitzpatrick, is one of few so many people. Asian-American staff “I get to wear so many members. After a few years hats, and I get to work in of working in the district, the office. I also get to help although not at any particu- staff, students and families, lar school, Foua saw the as well as working one on job opening for secretary at one with our principal,” Afton-Lakeland. She was Fitzpatrick added. optimistic about applying This has helped her bet- and getting the job because ter understand the people of her background. Sur- she works with as well as prisingly, she got the job build a better connection and has been working there with the community. for the past two years and could not be happier with Photo by Mason Buck the work she does. “I have never been In the fall of 2019, Fitz- Afton-Lakeland Elementary secretary, Foua Fitzpatrick, stands at her desk, in the front office, patrick became a new face treated in any way of Afton-Lakeland Elementary on the morning of Feb. 24. She is the first person that people as the secretary of Af- see when they enter the building. She creates a welcoming atmosphere for all students. ton-Lakeland. As one of few where I felt uncomfort- Asian staff members in the district, she has provided able or unwelcome. I’ve their familiar places. For where, again, with young- ty, I always tell her that she diversity for the school, as example, when one walks er kids, they may not even is my superhero because of well as support for every been very lucky to have in the doors of the school, realize that they’re learn- all the tasks that she does,” student. Fitzpatrick is the first per- ing about that. They could Schneider said. “It’s a goal of mine to worked with people in our son they see, which pro- just see that with me in my “When kids can know just share my experience, vides the young kids with position,” Fitzpatrick ex- that if they go out in the and if anyone is willing to district that have treated that crucial experience. plained. public and they see anoth- learn about me as a per- Fitzpatrick said a sim- Afton-Lakeland kinder- er Asian face or another son, I’m more than willing me well and treated me ple goal of hers has always garten teacher Kim Sch- Hmong face, they can relate to share that,” Fitzpatrick been to just have students neider has been working it to me. They can make a said. as equal.” see someone that is differ- at the school for 24 years, connection that someone Fitzpatrick’s journey to ent and to provide them and she can not recall hav- looks like me, and they her current role as secretary Fitzpatrick said. with that important experi- ing a minority colleague have no fear of doing that,” at Afton-Lakeland provid- ence early in their life, even until Fitzpatrick. The ac- Fitzpatrick explained. ed her with the background if they do not understand tions that she has taken in Beyond being an outgo- she needed to succeed as a Fitzpatrick has always exactly what it means. her first two years working ing and supporting secre- secretary. Her initial expe- felt like part of the Af- Fitzpatrick also hopes at the school have inspired tary, Fitzpatrick is a unique rience with the Stillwater ton-Lakeland family. It is to be someone that works Schneider. Furthermore, and special person that, school district came with clear that her colleagues hard and sets a good ex- Schneider is amazed at the without knowing, impacts the student support services are welcoming and re- ample for the kids. This tasks that Fitzpatrick has young kids in many ways. in 2017. spectful, which makes her is something that she be- completed, and is excited “She could run the Fitzpatrick said she feels job even better. lieves is valued greater for the future of having a school because there are lucky that she worked her Elementary students can than race and ethnicity. Fitzpatrick lead the way for many days when our prin- first year with SSS because learn about diversity, which “Being hard working Afton-Lakeland. cipal isn’t there and she’s they were a much smaller is important, by simply transcends race and ethnic- “Being in the role that holding down the floor,” program. Therefore, it re- seeing different faces in ity, and that’s something she is and being a minori- Schneider added. 4 March 12, 2021- The Pony Express Sports Carson Arco hits the slopes of Afton Senior skateboards, trains over summer months

Jayden Leach has learned many new tricks and started riding about make him better at snow- termined to succeed no mat- and has created videos that three to four times a week. boarding, and be fun at the ter how much time it would Senior Carson Arco has he posts on social media. Now, Arco rides every- same time. The first time take him. After two weeks been practicing and working When Arco was 11, he day and said, “I love push- he started skating, he was of attempting to hit his first hard on his snowboard skills and a couple of his cousins ing myself to learn new 13 in his garage practicing ollie, he finally hit the trick. at Afton Alps during the took lessons at Afton Alps tricks and spending time how to stay balanced on the “I felt like an absolute winter season, and Resort. Arco rode about with my friends.” skateboard. When he final- boss. It took me so long to skateboarding in the once a week until he turned Over the years, Arco has ly got comfortable, Arco hit the trick, but I knew I summertime. Arco 13, then he started going enjoyed pushing himself to took his rookie talents could do it,” Arco explained. frequently and getting bet- learn new tricks on the slopes to the streets. Five years later, Arco has ter. Arco started working at with his friends. His favorite had a lot of time to practice Afton Alps his sopho- tricks that he can do are a 360 “I love snow- new tricks. Since then he has more year of high on to a rail, a front flip and become better and can do school a 360 out of a rail, but he boarding and a lot of tricks. His favorite couldn’t always do those tricks that he can do on a tricks. When Arco was skateboarding. skateboard is a fakie tre flip 11, his first trick and a half cab flip. A fakie tre he learned It has taught me flip is when he snaps a fakie was jump- ollie from switch stance, and ing on and that if you just the board does a 360 shove- off the box. it and kickflip. “I just find keep working “It took me three years to snowboarding finally accomplish this trick. really fun, and I en- hard at some- At one point it felt like it was joy the feeling of fi- impossible, but I kept trying nally hitting the trick thing, that the again and again. Then what that I have been seemed impossible, I finally practicing over and hard work will accomplished,” Arco added. over again. It’s Lately, Arco has been a great feeling,” pay off.” broadcasting his snow- Arco stated. boarding and skateboarding During the -Carson Arco tricks on social media. He summertime, posts these videos to show Arco spends “I used to play Skate his progress and to entertain his time grind- 3 on the Xbox with my his audience. One of his ing at the skate friends. I thought the posts is even laid out to be park rather than tricks on the game were a whole edited film. Arco on the slopes. really cool and I wanted saves his videos from his He thought to learn how to do them in Instagram stories and keeps skateboard- real life,” Arco explained. them displayed on his ac- ing would After Arco was com- count so anyone can watch fortable with riding in the them at any point. Arco can streets, he decided to take now look back at his old it to the next level and vis- documented videos to see it a skate park. Arco visited how far he has come. Ojibway Park in Woodbury “One time , Carson and and wanted to learn how I made an edit at one of our to do an ollie. An ollie is a skate sessions. It turned out skateboarding trick where really good and was very the rider and the board fun to make,” junior Logan leap into the air with- Tierney said. out the use of the rid- Arco this sport when ers hands. He tried for he was young and now multiple days, and he loves it. He continues Graphic by Katie Kangas still could not hit the to push himself to get trick, but he was de- better everyday. Girls hockey team gears up for strong season as a strong Ava Fugate when in a huddle or speaking look up to the upperclass- to the referees. The team has men. They are all very good The girls hockey team can been having a harder time friends to me and I respect be described as resilient and with that especially that they them on and off the ice. I determined. There are many cannot do their warm-ups to- have been friends with jun- different personalities on the gether and have to get dressed iors Syd Scheel and Syd team making for a fun time at home alone. Shuster for many years and for the girls, but they all have “Challenges we have faced respect them as people.” a great work ethic and work are not being able to be to- The girls hockey team hard on and off the ice. The gether before games due to has had a successful year coaches make sure they stay COVID and sometimes it with 6-1. Their dedication hard working and only expect causes us to have a slow start is shown throughout their 100% effort everyday. and we have had to overcome games most weekends and Sophomore Kylie Lig- that,” junior captain Sydney some weekdays while hav- day described the team re- Scheel explained. ing practice almost every day ally coming together and The team has been doing for up to 2 hours. The team working as a team in one their very best with the new of young girls is filled with Photo by Kiera Rivers of her favorite moments in regulations and circumstanc- positive energy and determi- the season so far. The team es. Even without being able nation to win. Girls hockey plays against the Roseville Raiders on Feb. 20 at feels very confident that will to do as many team bonding “One of my favorite mo- Roseville Skating Rank. be their only loss if they put things this year the team is ments from this season was in the work needed. still as much of a family as it playing Gentry. They were our Up until their game in and coaches reflected on the Due to COVID-19, the always has been. The respect toughest opponents and we beat the beginning of February game and pinpointed where sport has changed a little. and kindness for one another is them in overtime,” Ligday said. against Roseville, the girls we need to do better and we Masks are required at all displayed throughout the team After they won 5-4 they all met team were undefeated. are going to apply that mov- times whether players are ac- no matter where they are. in the middle of the ice for a “I believe the loss against ing forward,” junior Betsy tive or not. Social distancing Ligday said this about her huge group hug she described Roseville will be our only described about coming back is required on the benches and upperclassmen teammates, “I as “the best feeling.” loss because all of us players from the loss. Sports March 12, 2021 - The Pony Express 5 Girls varsity basketball team improves during modified season Nila Cooper goal is to limit exposure to fourth in the Minnesota Divi- many different groups of peo- sion AAAA leagues, with sec- The girls varsity basketball ple, in different conferences. tion finals soon approaching. team is improving despite the “Those games usually give “I think our chemistry on challenges they are working us more competition and if and off the floor is a big rea- with right now during the we were to make it to state... son for our success. Many of COVID-19 pandemic. Not it would have given us an op- us have played together since having spectators or family portunity to know what those 5th/6th grade and I think it’s present at the games can be better teams would be like,” a huge piece of the game physically and mentally diffi- Scalia added. that has made us successful,” cult for the players. The cap- It is also difficult to not Scalia added. tains and the coach are work- have many or even a few The team gets together be- ing especially hard to make spectators at the games, but fore or after games and goes the season fun and successful, they are making the best of out to eat, as a way to still do which it has been. the situation. team bonding activities. The biggest difference this “There would always be season is that the players have packed stands with kids from to wear masks during practice the high school cheering us and at games. They take other on. It is a big difference with- safety measures such as san- out having all the fans in my itizing and social distancing. opinion, but it’s better than “We sanitize every time we none,” Scalia explained. go to get water in practice and Despite this, the players Photo by Mairin Torgerson come out of games,” junior are playing quite well includ- captain Amber Scalia said. ing senior captain Alexis Pratt Varsity basketball player Amber Scalia at Irondale game Feb. The good thing is that the who said that even if her par- 17, final game score was Stillwater 90 and Irondale 26. girls are feeling more com- ents did not come, it did not fortable playing with masks really bother her because she know a lot of places that are this season, going into sec- and are learning how to train knows she needs to keep play- not playing anymore or have tions with a 13-0 record. in them. ing her games even when they stopped. Another thing that is The team is doing excep- It was a struggle at the be- are not there. good is that I get to play with tionally well and this is due ginning with the masks, how- Although there are many my team again for one last to several things; their ability ever, Scalia has “definitely challenges this year, there are year,” Pratt explained. to communicate during games gotten used to it”. some positives. The players This is especially positive and their speed has improved. Another substantial change are very grateful to get a sea- for the seniors who have had They are 13-0 and recently this season is not being able to son, even if it looks different. such a crazy season. Despite won a home game against play non-conference games. “I mean the good thing is the challenges being faced, East Ridge 82-55. They are With COVID-19 rules, the we are playing basketball. I the team is so far undefeated first in Section 4 AAAA and

Graphics by Nissa Wilcox

Jack Wells Bounces Back From Major Leg Injury Grant Miller Wells had nearly a month Albers said “he brought some long period from when the great energy to the locker Anything can be danger- leg was injured until his sur- room and is a guy many of ous. Junior Jack Wells real- gery. This surgery was the the boys miss having in the ized this after breaking his start of the recovery process locker room.” leg playing a pickup game of for him and everything af- Wells plans on getting football at Woodbury High ter he learned, but he has a back into skates hopefully School. Wells fractured his promising recovery. later in the summer. His goal fibula, tibia, tore his PCL, Wells explained the doc- is to get back onto the ice for tore his medial meniscus, tors told him, “10-12 weeks his senior season which if lateral meniscus, tore his IT after surgery I get the brace everything goes as planned band, and tore three more off. I am obviously not going looks promising. ligaments in a piteous corner. to be able to get right back Many people feel for All of this happened from into sports but it’s definitely Wells and have supported jumping up for a football and a step forward” . him throughout this journey, colliding trying to intercept Many leg injuries usual- “I’ve had plenty of friends it. This all happened late fall ly take around six to eight give me some gifts and par- right after football season weeks to heal completely, ents and former coaches and just before Wells’ junior but this was not the case for reach out to me. It makes hockey season. Wells. Wells injury was con- me feel really good knowing Wells had to undergo a sidered a major leg injury they are right there with me.” three and a half hour surgery and was much more than a Wells joined the hockey for this gruesome injury. broken bone. team and as many activities The surgeons had to cut into “The doctors even said as he could attend. The team four different spots in his leg they usually only see leg in- saved him a spot on the ros- around the knee. They had juries this bad in car crash- ter this year so he would still to repair plenty of ligaments es,” Wells explained. have the opportunity to come including his PCL and sev- Wells broke both his tibia to any of the games and feel eral other smaller ligaments and fibula but the ligaments part of the team. which he tore. that were torn result in an Wells is looking forward Wells must keep a tight even longer recovery. Wells to recovering and bouncing compression sock around his was not happy to hear this back. He hopes to come back cuts to improve blood flow news as he wanted to play better than before and will and circulation to his leg. sports, especially hockey. not take anything for granted. Wells also has to hook up The injury occurred right He plans to surprise everyone several different machines before Wells’ junior year and come out stronger, big- to his leg for muscle stim- hockey season. “I was super ger and faster. He is excited ulation and compression to bummed out to hear how for what the future holds and make sure his leg stays in long I was going to be out is hoping to have a successful good shape while his leg for. They think I can may- turn around. heals and he is unable to use be get back for next hockey or walk on it. season which is just over a “I’ve gotten used to the year’s recovery,” Wells said. process of the stuff I do Many guys miss having everyday to keep my leg in Wells on the team this year. shape,” Wells said. Senior team manager Isaac 6 Mar. 12, 2021 - The Pony Express Focus Mar. 12, 2021 - The Pony Express 7

Removal of Marjorie CREATIVE COMMONS IMAGE THROUGH WIKIMEDIA COMMONS Cancel Taylor Greene from culture committees causes and uncertainty censorship over social Drew Jurek cluding former president Don- For Senior Lucas Polucha, ald Trump, have called her that shows that maybe she the face of a new party. The should be given another chance. At the top of her campaign split did not stop the majori- “She is a Freshman repre- media website, Marjorie Taylor Greene ty of Republicans to oppose sentative and she doesn’t have a described herself as a “conserv- Marjorie Taylor Greene’s re- real track record of misdeeds in ative wife, mother, and busi- moval, and the Democrat’s Congress,” Polucha said. “Espe- nesswoman who 100% stands success in pushing it through cially compared to other, more WHEN SHOULD with Trump and against the regardless has left many angry. senior politicians who have a Maci Swanson other people,” Parker said. left-wing socialists who want “I think it is stifling the noted history of misdeeds.” SOCIAL MEDIA The most powerful motive to wreck this country.” It’s rhet- conservative voices,” sen- What is worrisome to many for constructing cancel culture oric that has become common, ior Abby Cronk said. “Those is the precedent being set. Tra- CENSOR POSTS? As social media has grown, is social status. It has created not just for Greene, but for the who voted for her wanted to ditionally parties have often there has also been growth of new opportunities for people whole of the Republican party. see her go to Congress and removed members from com- withdrawing support for signif- to move up by taking others The second tab in the menu push the ideals that she told mittee assignments, usually 100 students were surveyed and here is how they responded. icant public figures, and private down. By showing the bad is a large red button embla- them she stood for and now in order to bully them away citizens over statements they behavior of others, one per- zoned with “Impeach Joe Bid- she is not able to do that.” from unorthodox positions or post or say on social media. son may lose their social rank, en.” Further to the top is her Junior Flora Iris Montcho to punish them for a crime. But This is also known as cancel which means at the same time campaign logo and with it, the disagreed, saying that Greene Greene’s removal marks the culture. It has many definitions another person will gain it. slogan: “Stop Socialism, Save was dangerous to the Amer- first time that the majority party and interpretations with both “I think they kind of put America.” On the homepage ican people and her re- has taken control of the commit- 50.5% negative and positive outcomes. themselves in that position of the website, a video is dis- marks were “just not right.” tee assignments of the minority The term “cancel culture” because they know that and played in which Greene decries Democrat’s claims of the party. In an already tense polit- CHOSE has become more popular and since they are kind of famous, Communists including Reps. ical position, it is a controver- grown as social media grows. then they should know that Alexandria Ocassio-Cortez, sial decision that many worries Within cancel culture, it is often things would get blown up Ilhan Omar, and Rashida Tal- “I think it is stifling the could have long-lasting effects. BULLYING large groups of people who tar- if they did something in the ib for trying to destroy the conservative voices. Sophomore Iris Montcho get those who committed some wrong. But at the same time, country in their ignorance. Those who voted for her said that she “definitely” sort of violation on the internet. you don’t know if they are al- When she describes herself wanted to see her go to thought that Republicans might Cancel culture is known ready getting punished. But on the next page, she paints Congress and push the use this as an excuse to remove for being the main reason for then again it puts out awareness herself first and foremost as a ideals that she told them opponents if returned to power. 28.2% CHOSE 48.5% the downfall of public figures too,” junior Alexis Witter said. businesswoman with a lot of she stood for and now If this prediction proves OFFENSIVE LANGUAGE or popular internet influenc- Additionally, people are experience, the same experi- she is not able to do that.” true, it might become a major CHOSE FALSE ers. This so called downfall slow to give praise for a good ence she touts when trying to issue for Minnesotans. Among terms that are applied to be hurtful, INFORMATION is mainly due to any sexism, act and quick to assign blame convince others to vote for her. the proposals offered by Re- derogatory or obscene comments made racism, or any other type of for a bad one. The relative Her website offers a glimpse publicans, it was reported that HOW by one person to another person abuse or harmful wrongdoing difficulty of doing something of a woman who has become Abby Cronk there was talk of starting a to others that they could have good and the prolonged wait- one of the most controversial case against Minnesota’s Rep- 57.8% done through social media. ing period to receive credit for politicians of the post-Trump danger Greene poses are not un- resentative Ilhan Omar, one 50% 44.1% “If they’re being like rac- it is why cancel culture has period, especially after Con- founded, in fact, they are rooted of Greene’s “Communists”. CHOSE ist, I guess it’s fair that they grown so quickly. Many peo- gress voted to remove her from in a long history of violent rhet- Like Greene, Omar has faced CHOSE DOMESTIC can get cancelled. But I don’t ple prefer getting immediate her positions on the Committee oric and questionable beliefs. a backlash from the Jewish CHOSE know if sometimes the sever- rewards rather than waiting for Labor and Education and Greene is a former moderator community for anti-Semitic BLOOD/ VIOLENCE ity of it is probably not fair,” and having a risk of failure. the Committee for the Budget of the “Family America Pro- remarks. She has been marred NUDITY junior Connor Parker said. In other words, it’s easi- violent or aggressive Feb. 4. The move, though sup- ject” Facebook group, which by allegations of mismanage- GORE behavior within the The First Amendment er to gain by bringing others ported by 11 Republican rep- has included members posting ment of funds and corruption. home, typically states that since social media down than getting credit for resentatives, has shaken a na- threats against prominent Dem- Despite this, Omar has become involving the violent platforms are private compa- a good act, mainly because FAR abuse of a spouse or tion already reeling from one ocrats, including Speaker Nan- a rising star of the Democratic nies, which they censor what there is a long wait to receive of its most unstable periods. cy Pelosi. She has also been Party. If Republicans moved partner. people post on their web- credit for these acts of good. At the center of it all is found in videos wherein she forward with a removal, they sites if what is posted violat- “It’s more specifically tar- Greene, the newly elected supported the disproven QAon, would not only cause a political ed their terms and conditions. geted towards like one person. representative for Georgia’s frazzlegate, and pizzagate con- uproar among their opposition The First Amendment also People need to be able to have 14th district. After beating spiracy theories. It was these but would also deprive one of 19% CHOSE OTHER protects false statements of independence. a lot of people the more moderate candidate theories that have fueled both Minnesota’s largest districts fact and protects individuals like coming for people who they John Cowan, she ran a cam- shootings and the insurrection of its voice on committees. Some of the common answers students added were: from government censorship. don’t know and getting in other paign that was plagued with that Greene later supported. Greene’s case does not of- -Animal abuse Popular social media apps people’s business,” Witter said. discoveries of Greene’s past. “I agree with her remov- fer any comfort. In its search -Suicide/self harm such as Twitter, Instagram Cancel culture is a way for Despite this, Greene won her al,” Montcho explained, “what to try to bring peace to a coun- IS and Facebook are some of people to relate to each other seat, running unopposed af- she said and done was un- try reeling from a pandemic -Racist comments/slurs the main sources where one and agree on the same things. ter the democratic candidate acceptable. It should have and political polarization, it -Illegal actions may find cancel culture. Over It has been able to unite peo- stepped down. Already a con- even been in question if she has only succeeded in bring- -Hate speech these popular apps, people are ple around a common purpose troversial figure, Greene’s - de should have been removed.” ing uncertainty for the future. able to voice their opinions. which offers status and social fense of the insurrection on However, Greene has long All that can be assured is that Many celebrities are based solidarity with little risk of January 6th led to many dem- tried to distance herself both the American people will on, and create their reputation hurting their own social status. ocrats voting to kick her from from violent words and con- need to be vigilant and watch and brand over the use of so- “It brings light to issues her committee assignments. spiracy theories. During a hear- closely in the days to come. 16% cial media and the internet. that might have not been The Republican party has ing of House Republicans on “Going forward, we have to None social media is “It’s probably really easy known, but at the same time been unsure of exactly how to her removal, despite refusing to watch out for the tyranny of the for the freedom of to dig up there for famous it takes apart a lot of peo- react to Greene since she be- apologize, Greene said that she majority,” Polucha said, “but CHOSE NONE people, because of all the ple’s lives,” Witter added. came their candidate. Many had been “Led to believe things I’m also concerned about the whatever stuff they do and it’s easier to Cancel culture has become have decried her as a danger- that were not true”, and that she Republican Party, especially its like to make stuff up and then a highly politicized term with ous radical, while others in- regretted that having happened. inability to regulate its members. -ANONYMOUS Believe that nothing just like stir the pot I guess. both positive and negative It’s easier to get a position on connotations in recent months. SURVEY TAKER should be censored

GRAPHIC BY SOPHIA MCDONALD 8 March 12, 2021 - The Pony Express Opinion Biden’s proposed minimum wage simply not enough Olivia Bystrom

From fast food service to grocery store employees and every odd job in between, minimum wage workers are the backbone of this coun- try. As radical as that state- ment may seem, Americans’ comfortable and convenient everyday lives depend on the services offered by minimum wage professions. Without these essential services and the people who perform them, our economy would collapse, and yet there still exists a stig- ma that these jobs hold little value to society. In fact, socie- ty holds minimum wage labor in such a low regard that their employees live below the pov- erty line. President Joe Biden is seek- ing to change that, but even his plans to raise minimum wage are not progressive enough. The federal minimum wage has not been raised since 2009, Photo by Olivia Bystrom when it rose from $6.55 to the Minimum wage employees go on strike for a $15 minimum wage in Dinkytown, 2015. President Joe Biden has made promises to $7.25 American’s still have meet this demand by 2025. today. In the span of the last 12 years, costs of living have risen 20% alongside drastic on your mental health and tle, San Francisco and New less of the 12 stagnant years imizing profit, and I think as increases in costs for housing it’s destructive to your social York the wage increase to $15 without a raise to the mini- reasonable as that sounds and healthcare. In Minnesota, life. It’s just not reasonable an hour actually could be an mum wage. Who is responsi- from the perspective of the an individual would have to to say that people should be economic boost because the ble for it, the minimum wage CEO and the perspective of make $20.53 an hour to afford devoting their entire lives wages in these areas of the workers who need a few more the administration- It’s not a two bedroom apartment, ac- to working when we could country are very high and dollars to get by, or large cor- healthy for the economy as a cording to a 2020 report from raise the minimum wage,” the consumers do not mind porations who refuse to pay whole and it’s not morally jus- the NLIHC. Reiner added. or don’t notice as much the their employees higher wages tifiable,” Reiner explained. At $7.25 an hour, one However, Biden’s proposal increase in prices for goods without increasing the price The reality is that closing would have to work multiple to raise the minimum wage and services. However, a uni- of their products? In Amer- the wage gap is a lot more jobs to stay afloat, which is a has also met its fair share versal minimum wage of $15 ican society, the people have nuanced than simply raising lifestyle that is not only physi- of criticism and opposition. an hour can be disastrous for been conditioned to put the the minimum wage. In fact, cally but mentally demanding, Many of those who argue places where income levels responsibility for these is- raising the minimum wage senior Isaac Reiner explained. against raising the minimum are low across the board; Al- sues on the shoulders of the is only one step towards a “I’ve known people who wage claim that it will only abama, Louisiana, Mississip- average citizen. In reality, work two full time jobs and I stand to raise the cost of liv- pi, West Virginia and many it is the multi-billion dollar have a lot of respect for those ing. Economics teacher Mike rural areas of the country,” companies who should be Read more online people of course, but it’s not Weiss was able to better put Weiss explained. taking the blame. healthy. Work can’t be your this claim into perspective. Despite this, the cost of “They’re paying as little as entire life. It takes a huge toll “In some areas like Seat- living continues to rise regard- they can for the sake of max- sahsponyexpress.com Super Bowl reflects America’s priorities amidst pandemic Lubnag Xiong hold thousands of people as if da Herr explained that the COVID-19 never existed. It reason why the United States’ was an irresponsible decision. number of cases has sky-rock- The Super Bowl is the no- The league should not have eted compared to other torious championship game allowed that many people to countries is the initial lack of of the National Football attend, if any at all. understanding of how conta- League, and every year tens gious and serious this virus is. of thousands of fans occupy “I think they did No one really followed safety the selected stadium to watch precautions, whereas other the game live. It serves as the what they could to countries prioritized masks final game of each NFL sea- and quarantine. son, as millions of people allow thousands Events with significantly tune in from their homes, ea- less people were completely ger to watch what they had to enter, yet I feel cancelled during the pan- been waiting for all season. demic. High schoolers across COVID-19, however, brought decisions made is the country were not able obstacles that affected the de- to celebrate the end of their cisions and games of many high school education, but professional sports—one be- thousands of fans were able Graphic by Kady Peltier ing the 2021 Super Bowl. One all about money.” to collectively watch a football would think hosting such an game. bonds is difficult. Many stu- It is not safe for that many event in the middle of a pan- Erin Nickleby “Although I do not know dents have not been able to individuals to gather, with or demic is not the best idea, but much about sports, I do know physically go to school and without the correct safety pre- the United States continues to that the stadium can fill up interact with their peers. It is cautions. It does not matter if show the world otherwise. It is no surprise the United with thousands and thousands not hard to understand the it was a smaller group, because On Feb. 7, the Tampa Bay States has had the most COV- of people, all sitting side by frustration of students and at the end of the day, too many Buccaneers beat the Kansas ID-19 cases when there are side and comparing that to a teachers when they cannot people were exposed to each City Chiefs in the 2021 Su- people who are not following graduation ceremony, I could even be in a classroom, as other. per Bowl, earning them their CDC guidelines. Even with see how it made a lot of peo- tens of thousands of people It is understandable people second Super Bowl cham- the appropriate precautions ple frustrated with massive are able to gather in one place are eager for life to go back pionship title. Even though and spacing, according to sports events being prioritized to watch a football game. to normal. However, that will the NFL limited the amount NFL columnist Jarrett Bell, over graduation ceremonies,” Nickleby said she misses not happen if people continue of people allowed to attend, many fans at the Super Bowl Herr said. seeing students, and “having to push the limits of COV- about 25,000 fans still occu- went around without masks One of the most difficult small one-on-one conversa- ID-19. With the United States pied the stadium. That is an despite the mandate instituted things about this pandemic is tions” with them is something approaching 500,000 deaths, absurd amount of people in by Tampa mayor Jane Castor. the lack of social interaction she also greatly misses. watching a football game is not one place during a pandemic. In a stadium filled with thou- among students and staff. Some would argue the worth increasing that number. In contrast, many events like sands of people, it is essential School and education rely 2021 Super Bowl held a much It takes one person to spread graduations were complete- that everyone wears a mask heavily on the interactions smaller audience than they this virus like wildfire, so if peo- ly cancelled due to the risk and keeps a distance from one that take place in a classroom, ever had and that it made a ple continue to be reckless with of spreading the virus, but another. and without that, making and big difference, but 25,000 their decisions in public, life the Super Bowl continued to High school graduate Lin- maintaining connections and people is still 25,000 people. will not be normal for a while. Editorial March. 12, 2021- The Pony Express 9 EIC COLUMN Staff Ed: Sports teams called to make change when it comes to team names Joshua Wallace

With people across the world being more aware of inequality and what they can do to make an impact, professional sports teams have started changing their VS. PHOTO SUBMITTED BY team names and/or team tra- MAIRIN TORGERSON ditions. Many teams have names that could be offensive to specific cultures or - eth Pony Clapback nicities, therefore it is time to take action on this issue. Former team Washington Mairin Torgerson Redskins ended up chang- ing their name to The Wash- With millions of students ington Football Team, along across the globe becoming with the Cleveland Indians well-accustomed to attending in the process of changing school from the safety of their their name. Many teams like home, it seems online school is the Atlanta Braves, Chica- GRAPHIC BY ELAINA MANKOWSKI the new normal. Though some go Blackhawks and Kansas schools have returned to in-per- City Chiefs are keeping their In July of 2020 the previously known “Washington Redskins” football team changed their name son or a hybrid model, almost team names as of now, but to the “Washington Football Team” after being pressured to change their name. Many other all students from elementary putting rules into place for teams have recently been facing backlash for not changing their names yet. through college have had some their fans and community. type of online version of school. Many people are not in favor Chiefs they may have very unlike some other teams. it is directed at them or not. For college students though, of keeping names that have different opinions on what to Many teams are now fac- People have been changing the situation is more than just to do with Native Americans. do based on the mascot and ing pressure from Native their views on topics when learning from home. Online Everyone is trying to fig- background of those names. American activists and other it comes to different races school means missing out on ure this out and what teams Sports teams should not be worldwide equality move- and cultures and have been an actual “college experience.” should be doing about their the ones who are saying if it is ments. Over a dozen teams in put in their place if they are But yet, students are still paying names and mascots, but a lot right or wrong, because most the last 50 years changed their taking advantage of another regular tuition, even though it is uncertain. The best way likely, they are not the ones team mascot and name due to culture or race, therefore it is not what they are paying for. to figure it out is to under- with their tribal rituals being the pressure. The activists ar- will be interesting to see how College students shouldn’t pay stand what indigenous people used, instead team owners gue that there has never been things impact team names full tuition for online courses think and get their opinion, need to see what the Natives a place for names like that in over the next few years. because they lose out on pro- because many of them have themselves think instead of sports and there never will be. fessor interaction and support, different views on the names just assuming. Depending With many protests this Read more online social interaction and events that and what the team should on the Native group, they past summer and how much it their money is going towards, do to fix it. For example, if will have different answers has changed general society, and they do not have the same they compare the Indians and therefore different teams many teams may be feeling sahsponyexpress.com resources available to them. Redskins to the Braves and may be able to keep names, that pressure again whether From a survey of 13,606 college students in the United States done by study guide plat- form OneClass, over 93% of Pony Express Staff students said that if classes are held fully online, tuition should be lowered. The study also found Stillwater Area High School, 5701 Stillwater Blvd N, Oak Park Heights, MN 55082 that about 75% of students were unhappy with the quality of the Print Editors-in-Chief Business Editors Distribution Reporters Leigha Kraft classes, and the concerns have Drew Jurek Charles Calderone Izzy Appert Jay Lohr been mutual across the country. Elaina Mankowski Elly Flaherty Seth Chlebeck Brandon Pilrain “It is frustrating, I am not Emily Hornbuckle Annika Citsay Maci Swanson getting the same amount of Layout Editors Jenna Maddux Adrianna Garcia help and instruction as I would Katie Kangas Luci Miller Henry Jansen Assistant Advisors normally get, but I am pay- Rachel Palmer Karley Rydeen Mira LaNasa ing the same amount,” junior Kady Peltier Social Media Editor-in- Chief Brynn Winter Lily Sample at the University of Minneso- Alexis Schmitz Ella Gag ta Grace Collmann explained. Abby Thibodeau Podcast Editors Advisor Her professors have short Nissa Wilcox Social Media Editors Zachary Bock Rachel Steil office hours and tend to take a Cooper Arens Jacob Carlson while to respond to emails, with Online Editor-in-Chief Marisa Fredericks Harper Estenson Printers some not even having a daily Alex Steil Ella Hamilton Ava Fugate Sauk Centre online lesson like a Zoom call. Sierra Penning Nicholas Koehn While a few student activ- Online Design Editors Greta Sorenson Logan Laier Print and Online Con ity buildings at the college are Joshua Bove Carter Stratmann Alexander Lamsam tent Policy Morgan Delaney open for students to use, most Parker Gilchrist Mikai Tasch John Piekarski The Pony Express is a publication of Stillwater are difficult to get access to and Bella Godfrey Connor Quaderer Area High School. This paper is an open forum Angel Hernandez Regaldo tend to have shortened hours Calvin Mankowski Editorial Cartoonist Editors Mackenzie Yang for the community and students’ views. Letters as well. Not being able to con- Badrah Abdullahi Tucker Wyland to the Editor are encouraged. tact professors efficiently or use Copy Editor-in-Chief Briah Azure Maifue Yang The Editorial Board reserves the right to pub- student resources that normally Emma Wagner Zach Boch lish and edit letters: correction will be made would be available are just some Abby Hansen Fashion Bloggers in order to correct content, spelling, grammar of the drawbacks of online class. Copy Editors Kate Johnson Reese Dougherty and length. Letters and comments may be “What you are paying for is Charles Calderone Sophia McDonald Sophia Giliuson submitted to rooms D220. the expectation of high quality Lindsay Crain Jorge Moreno Sanchez Emerson Milby The staff editorial is written by the Pony Express and in-person classes from an in- Olivia Fear Marena Saeger Isaiah Ramnarime staff and headed by Editors-in-Chief. The Pony stitution that will give you a high Julianna Silva Caroline Tangen Express is a member of the High School Press level of education, but if it is on- Ella Spitzer Broadcast Editors-in-Chief Syndicate, the Columbia High School Press line, you are not getting that same Adelee Wrightsman Stella Bertsch Student Playlist Association, International Quill and Scroll, quality of education, so it is not Lubnag Xiong Olivia Bystrom Cooper Arens National Scholastic Press Association and the worth the same amount of mon- Harrison Walz Danna Carrillo Minnesota High School Press Association. ey,” senior Charles Maloney said. Video Editors Michelle Cruz The Pony Express print and online newspapers Maloney plans on attending Photography Editor-in -Chief Austin Buck Jayden Leach strive to provide a form of media that embod- a 4-year university this fall as Mairin Torgerson Mason Buck Michael May ies the strongest professional standards while a freshman, unless it is going Josie Crombiie Sam McClaine working to present current and relevant stories to be all online, in which case Photography Editors Aiden Flock Grant Miller about the community, inside and outside our he might explore other options. Abby Anderson Erik Houle Cheyenne Peterson building’s wall. The goal is to adhere to all to a less expensive community Sidney Angerhofer Krister Kaul Joshua Wallace legal and ethical standards of best journalistic college where he can take his Sophie Arndt Tyler Kordosky Vatuazenj Vang practices, while informing, enlightening, and Nila Cooper Ella Metcalf entertaining our publication’s readers. Cassidy Gilliam Zach Olson Food Bloggers Libby Harter Thomas Rosengren Ella Cedenhead Read more online Somara Plaster-Moe Markos Zegeye Calli Dierkhising Kiera Rivers Dylan Friend sahsponyexpress.com Pablo Giran Ramirez 10Mar. 12, 2021 - The Pony Express Arts and Entertainment Theatre department wins second place in One Act sectionals Briah Azure

In December, the high school theatre department put on Ko- PHOTO BY MACI SWANSON dachrome, a play by Adam Szymkowicz about a photogra- pher named Suzanne, who takes Concert choir the audience into the lives of people living in a small town attends MMEA called Colchester. The play deals with the topics of love and say- conference ing goodbye. The cast also per- formed this show for the One Act Jacob Carlson competition, a yearly competition for schools throughout Minneso- The concert choir is a ta. Stillwater tied for first in sec- highly regarded choir in the tionals, but was awarded second. nation, they have won multi- Like many events this year, ple awards and have recently theatre adapted to COVID-19. been nominated to the MMEA That meant coming up with cre- competition for their singing. ative ideas and putting safety The Minnesota Music measures in place: the actors Educators Association is a performed in front of a green highly regarded group that screen and it was live streamed PHOTO SUBMITTED BY BRIAN MCTIER does multiple different types so viewers could watch online. of clinics and competitions. For the One Act competition, The cast of Kodachrome on stage with the set. Due to COVID-19, this year’s One They recently held a large schools could not perform live. Act had no live audiences and the performances were filmed for a virtual com- event that Stillwater choir Instead, they submitted tapes. Par- petition. students participated in. This ticipants had two options: in-per- event consisted of multiple son format and videoconference characters: the photographer, itive piece that would showcase used to be the act break (before different choirs around Min- format, for the in-person, schools hardware store owner, librarian, the students. As I was read- it starts raining) that always nesota and only the top per- can film their play in one take, gravedigger, florist and young ing through scripts last year, sends a shiver down my spine.” former were able to get a spot. with no editing. For the second man and created a completely when I got to Kodachrome, it Stillwater tied for first in sec- “I am excited for the option, schools performed their different show around them,” was really well written and it tionals and won second place MMEA competition, but it plays on platforms such as Zoom, Henson explained. “What I just had everything in it that overall, but the cast was happy to won’t be the same as other Google Meet, etc. Stillwater de- mean is, we found just those makes it a good one act to pro- be “performing” again, no matter competitions have been in cided to do in-person filming. six characters conveyed a dif- duce,” Sadow said about about what place or awards they won. the past, because of COVID “We had to film the one act ferent story from the one in why Kodachrome was selected. “I am so proud of the team and doing these online in- with one camera in one posi- the fall and it was beautiful.” Kodachrome author Adam and the message we were able stead of in person. Being in tion, but it could zoom in which The judges had to take into Szymkowicz agreed, “Yes. I to portray and the hard work person is a part of the expe- was different. We also had no consideration certain factors that hoped it would be. I’ve had we put in. It was most defi- rience. I am excited for the audience to play off of so some- were different this year than others. plays in the past that I was sur- nitely worth it for that. We MMEA competition, but it times it was difficult to tell if “They have a rubric that prised high schools have done but tied for first and I couldn’t be wont be the same as oth- we were having an effect or they use for the Minnesota this one makes sense for that.” more proud,” Henson added. ers have been in the past. not,” senior Olivia Henson said. State School League, they look “I have written more than “I learned that art continues. We are lucky to be able to They ran into another prob- at physical characterizations... 50 plays over the last 20-some- Students will rise to the occasion compete but it takes a huge lem, however, because the play concept and style of the produc- thing years and I have to say, this that’s given to them, they perse- part of the fun of competi- could not be more than 35 min- tion... All the elements of make- one is my favorite.” Szymkow- vered and created amazing art and tions out of it.[/pullquote]” utes. The original performance up and sound,” Sadow explained icz said. “There’s a moment in didn’t let the environment or the junior Maggie Nelson said. was a little over two hours. about what the judges look for. the monologue the Photogra- state of the country right now get “I am very excited for “We took six of the original “I was looking for a compet- pher gives at the end of what in their way,” Sadow concluded. the MMEA competition, It is always fun to do these types of competitions and this one is no different,” junior Drew Johnson added. Function of Beauty now in Target Choir recently held their each has their own promotion Target, Brandi said, “I love through YouTube. Now that it concerts and events online Macy Gonnion code giving their followers that I could try a smaller, is in stores, Tik Tok creators due to COVID-19. This has money off to try the products. cheaper bottle from Target and have been reviewing their put a restriction on in-per- On their online website, still be able to customize it.” products. Giving really and son learning and rehearsals. As a fun new way to people who are interested Featured in the quiz are honest opinions to their fans, “The main challenge in make hair healthy, Target can take a quiz on their hair questions asking about hair all good things have been said. choir this year was find- carries a brand called Func- type and Function of Beau- type, hair structure and scalp Tik Tok creator Ysabelle ing a way for us to put all tion of Beauty, a customiza- Wallace gives a before and af- of our parts together and ble shampoo and conditioner ter of the products from Func- ‘perform’ them,” Nelson that is made to fit anyone’s tion of Beauty. She said her fa- described of rehearsals. hair needs. With the sham- vorite part about the shampoo Another challenge for the poo and conditioner ranging and conditioner is the way it choir this year was that choir from straight to curly hair smells. She rates this product students did not have their types, and tons of different a ten out of ten and recom- peers around to help them out types of add-ins such as shine, mends it to all her followers. and tell them what they need strengthen and many more. Even from the people who to improve. A big part of Function of Beauty carries have never tried it, there are choir is being able to listen to more than just hair care, they still very good things being the different parts and try and also have skin and body care. said about the products. As mesh with everyone. Online For now, Target only sells they have heard of it through causes a problem because it shampoo, conditioner and the media and seen it in stores. is hard to get that in-person add-ins. This brand came to “For about two years I have experience. The importance Target in the middle of Dec., been paying closer attention of hearing the other parts 2020. As this hair company to the ingredients in beau- in choir is immeasurable. reaches popularity through ty products. That is where I “I say the main challenge social media influencers and first heard about Function of was trying to work on sing- now Target, people are trying Beauty,” health and AVID ing every day without the really hard to get their hands teacher Erin Nickleby said. help of fellow choir members on some of these products. In Target marketed this prod- around me,” Johnson said. stores the stock is limited and uct very well, as it has its According to https://sah- products seem to be going fast. own section in the hair care schoir.weebly.com/ the choirs Although many people part of the store. They have at Stillwater have collected have heard of this brand PHOTO BY MAIRIN TORGERSON made picking products up 5 ACDA (American Cho- through Target, it original- very easy and accessible. ral Directors Association) ly was an all online com- Function of Beauty started out as an online brand but recently “Best shampoo and con- Choral Arts Finale concerts, pany. Function of Beauty their haircare is being sold in Target. They are a unique brand ditioner!” Target customer 1 National Kodaly conven- would sponsor female crea- that creates shampoo and conditioner catered to individuals Maddie said, as she rates the tion, 2 North Central ACDA tors on social media such as hair needs. product a five out of five. conventions, 2 MMEA (Min- Caroline Manning, Sadie On the Function of Beau- nesota Music Educators As- Robertson and many more ty will send a shampoo to fit moisture. Then people can ty website, over 50 thousand sociation) midwinter clinic social media influencers. the needs. Now that it is in pick their fragrance and color people have voted five stars conventions, and 1 Minne- A religious blogger, Sadie stores, they made add-ins for they would like the bottle for the shampoo and condi- sota ACDA convention. Robertson, said she chose people to pick from. Peo- to be. People can even add tioner. Overall this product “We are very lucky to be Function of Beauty to hydrate, ple can add up to three add- their name to the bottle. has helped many people’s able to compete this year. nourish and strengthen her ins, which adds a personal- When Function of Beauty hair and will continue to It is one of the fun parts hair. All the influencers post- ized touch to a hair routine. was an online-only store it grow popular throughout about choir,” Nelson said. ing about Function of Beauty, In a shampoo review from gained most of its popularity the time it is sold at Target. Student Life March. 12, 2021 - The Pony Express 11 Blind Havoc’s growing audience seeks positivity and community Brynn Winter on TV. Believe in yourself,” Metcalf explained. In a generation consumed With streetwear on-trend, by social media, a vital part of it is now more than ever growing up during the teen- versatile. Dress it up or dress age years is the way one ex- it down, pair it with statement presses themselves. Walking piece sneakers or layer it for down the school hallway or more dimension, Blind Havoc scrolling through Instagram, can be worn either way. it is evident that Generation “Personally, I would wear Z has created its own sense Blind Havoc clothes because of style. Recently, a brand I love the streetwear style on the uprise, Blind Havoc, and I’m always in comforta- is gaining the attention of ble clothing,” junior Lydia students. Starting as just a Knutson said. dream, Blind Havoc became Creating a clothing brand a reality for Jayton Metcalf. from the bottom up takes time, After the global pandemic hit effort and lots of research. Jayton saw a need to bring Everything is a process and back positivity, as the world learning how to operate a busi- around us was uncertain. The ness involves many steps like name Blind Havoc was in- developing a business plan, cre- spired by Jayton’s focus on ating designs, researching a man- ignoring the chaos/havoc and ufacturer, as well as marketing spreading positivity. towards your targeted audience. Blind Havoc is a fashion “There were definitely retailer that started in March times where I would second 2020. Mostly known for their Photo by Abby Anderson guess myself when I would streetwear look, Blind Hav- Jayton Metcalf, Founder of Blind Havoc, prepares clothes for shipping in his home. A Sophmore compare my brand to other oc sells hoodies, sweatpants, at Augsburg University, Metcalf knew he wanted his brand to stand for positivity. From this he brands that have been estab- t-shirts, and more. coined the slogan of the brand: ignore what’s negative. lished for years. It was dif- Owner Jayton Metcalf feels ficult in the beginning but I “very blessed to have accom- “My inspiration behind Blind way for businesses to thrive, as for himself in the world does was able to push through,” plished one of my biggest Havoc is to spread as much posi- well as meeting new people and not come easy. Although, with Metcalf explained. goals/dreams - getting Blind tivity as possible. I started Blind creating connections. major support from friends Starting out with a new Havoc into the Mall of Ameri- Havoc a couple of weeks after Jayton said networking and family it is not always business or career can be ca ‘Third Degree Heat.’” COVID-19 began with hopes might be the most important easy to look at the bright side. intimidating, and often The meaning behind the to bring positivity to as many part of running a business. You “When you’re starting out times many fall into the hole name Blind Havoc is partly in- people as possible,” Jayton said. never know the connections a and people tell you it’s not of comparing themselves to fluenced by COVID-19. The The hardest part of starting a stranger you meet for the first going to work out or say, ‘I others. Ignore the havoc and message behind “Blind Havoc” brand from scratch is letting the time could have. can’t see you doing that’, just remember, “Don’t compare is to ignore what is negative and world know. In addition, mar- Starting out as an entre- remember Oprah was told she yourself to anyone, be the best seek out the positive. keting and promoting is a vital preneur and creating a name didn’t have what it takes to be you,” Jayton added. Senior-only prom brings mixed reactions Kiera Rivers Veda’s opinion is largely seniors, you are talking shared amongst the rest of 1,000-plus people,” Prom A lot of anticipation sur- the junior class. Many juniors Committee advisor Dusty rounds a high school room: a believe prom is a rite of passage Dennis explained. “Where ex- rite of passage, the final dance of that only happens twice in a actly is that supposed to hap- high school years and an overall lifetime, but acknowledge that pen? Junior’s will get their good time. But for this year’s a global pandemic is a once-in- day, but let’s prioritize those junior class, prom is simply a a-century phenomenon. students who did not get a dream. Due to the COVID-19 For those juniors who are senior dance or even a single pandemic, juniors will not be asking why they are not get- school dance the entire year.” dancing this year as the school Although seniors are happy announced that prom has been “Some of my best they will get a prom this year, officially canceled for them. it is not without a heavy heart COVID-19 has already tak- friends are juniors, for their friends who are jun- en so much away from high iors. school students over the past and not having “Some of my best friends year, like seeing friends every are juniors, and not having day, casual hallway small-talk them at the one them at the one and only prom amongst peers, and many oth- I get to go to is really sad,” er necessary social interactions and only prom I get senior Jacki Kulzer said. “For needed in order to have mean- years we have been talking ingful relationships. to go to is really about going to Prom together, Even so, the reaction from so it’s pretty disappointing it juniors who were asked how sad.” can’t happen this year.” they felt about prom being There are some juniors cancelled was understandable. who are more upset than oth- Many said that it was unfortu- Jackie Kulzer ers, and they argue that with nate, but also that they under- the crisis over the past year stand the predicament that the ting a prom while the seniors and a half, both of the upper school faced. With the junior do, the answer is really simple. classes deserve a prom. But and senior classes being so large For seniors, this is their last when it comes to public safe- at Stillwater, it would simply be chance to have a prom. Jun- ty, the prom committee had too difficult to find a venue that iors will still have one more few options but to limit the would be large enough to allow year to go. There simply are number of people at the dance Students understand that it to get the best opportunity to for COVID-19 safety measures, not any venues that are large this year. just is not going to happen this pull this thing off. This is why like social distancing. enough to accommodate both For the most part the junior year. While juniors may be the limitations in numbers. “Obviously we are a little sad, while creating enough social class understands that safety sad now, they will have their My hope is at the least to give but with Covid we also under- distance to keep people safe. needs to take precedence over chance next year. our Seniors a last chance to stand,” junior Veda Roeske said. “Between juniors and having a fun night at the prom. “We are doing our darndest have a send-off,” Dennis said. 12 March 12, 2021 - The Pony Express Review ‘Drivers License’ rises to top of charts Kenzie Chang ever, some of the lyrics in her song “Skin” just seem too spe- “This definitely seems cific not to be. like something their managers “I think she changed some set up, but I guess you nev- of her lyrics to make it appear er know,” junior Amaal Ab- that she was. For example dullahi said. Olivia Rodrigo, the lyric “maybe you didn’t Joshua Bassett and Sabrina mean it maybe blonde was Carpenter’s new songs have the only rhyme” looked like come into the spotlight as the it was a comeback to Olivia’s drama between this love trian- lyrics that said, “you’re prob- gle heats up. Although no one ably with that blonde girl,” knows whether all this drama Hemningway said.Abdullahi is real or not. said this definitely seems like Olivia Rodrigo’s song something their managers “Drivers License” recently hit might have set up. It’s kind No. 1 in one week, and is said of hard to believe that Sabri- to be like Generation z’s “You na and Josh both wrote a song Belong With Me” by Taylor in under 2 weeks that are ex- Swift like it was to millenni- tremely similar to Olivia’s. als. Rodrigo released this song Sabrina released a state- as a shout out to her ex and co- ment expressing that her song star, Joshua Bassett. was not intended to be a come- “The meaning behind back to Rodrigo’s song. How- Olivia’s song was about the ever, some of the lyrics in her fact Joshua taught her how song “Skin” just seem too spe- Photo by Kenzie Chang to drive, and he told her he cific not to be. would wait for her to turn 18 “I think she changed some Junior Amaal Abdullahi listens to Olivia Rodrigo’s hit single “Drivers License”. Abdullahi listened so they could be together since of her lyrics to make it appear to all three artists, but Rodrigo’s was her favorite. he is 20 and Olivia is 17, but that she was. For example the he went on to dating Sabrina lyric “maybe you didn’t mean “probably with that blonde Carpenter,” freshman Maria it maybe blonde was the only girl” and Josh started see- Hemingway said. rhyme” looked like it was a ing Sabrina Carpenter who is However, there has been a comeback to Olivia’s lyrics blonde” and how it just makes lot of controversy around not that said, “you’re probably sense. Fans did not just figure just the release of Rodrigo’s with that blonde girl,” Hemn- out all this by listening to their song, but also the new releases ingway said. songs, but also through their of Sabrina’s song “Skin” and You could definitely tell how music videos. Such as Rodri- Joshua’s song “Lie Lie Lie”. hurt she was and that she really go’s video where she wore a Everyone is wondering if all meant everything she wrote,” jacket that looked exactly like their songs were aimed at each In addition, to Sabrina’s state- the one Joshua wore in the other or if it was just one big ment, Joshua Bassett also re- Disney+ series “High school publicity stunt. leased a statement telling fans Musical the Series”, and in Abdullahi said this defi- that his song was not about Sabrina’s video she sat on top. nitely seems like something Rodrigo. Even though Josh- of a car that looks a lot like the record for the most Spoti- really weird to her. their managers might have set ua and Sabrina both released one in Rodrigo’s video. fy listens in a day, with over Putting aside all of the up. It’s kind of hard to believe statements about their songs, Abduhalli said there were 15 million streams. Even at drama, Rodrigo did accom- that Sabrina and Josh both Rodrigo never did. Fans are also a lot of indirects about 17 years old, she is inspiring plish something amazing. wrote a song in under 2 weeks certain Rodrigo’s song is about Rodrigo in Josh’s music video people all over the world. of a Her song “Drivers License” that are extremely similar to Joshua and Sabrina and Sabrina’s song which was car that looks a lot like the one broke the record for the most Olivia’s. Sophomore Sam Johnson really weird to her. in Rodrigo’s video. Spotify listens in a day, with Sabrina released a state believes, “Drivers license is Putting aside all of the dra- Abduhalli said there were over 15 million streams. Even ment expressing that her song about her and Joshua Bassett, ma, Rodrigo did accomplish also a lot of indirects about at 17 years old, she is inspir- was not intended to be a come since there’s a lot of stuff in the something amazing. Her song Rodrigo in Josh’s music video ing people all over the world. back to Rodrigo’s song. How- song that just points to it. Like “Drivers License” broke the and Sabrina’s song which was Netflix releases ‘To All the Boys: Always and Forever’ Bella Godfrey on to show how the couple deepens the story. These give from his side, and I want to goes about piloting the prob- viewers a chance to take a side hear him explaining things.” The “To All the Boys I’ve lem and how they come to a in the movie. Viewers a chance Loved Before” series had its resolution that benefits both to take a side in the movie. The final instalment of the third and final instalment - re of them. The “To All the Boys “At the beginning like series, To All the Boys I’ve leased Feb. 12, on Netflix. I’ve Loved Before” series is the first movie, Peter, he had Loved Before: Always and The three movies are based a very wholesome, feel-good nothing to do with Lara Jean. Forever, was a wholesome on the books by Jenny Han. story. The teen romance dis- And then, her sister sent out end to the story. The movie Many people have been fol- plays problems on screen that the letters and so now he’s combined all the important lowing the main character Pe- are dealt with in a healthy way kind of intrigued. They end up aspects of the previous two ter Kavinsky (Noah Centineo) after the real relationship had falling for each other and they into one. To those who have and Lara Jean Covey (Lana started, resulting in a typical are a super cute couple,” Rie- been following the story of Condor) from the first movie, happy ending. hle explained. “In the second Peter Kavinsky and Lara which was released in 2018. “When I look for each movie when Lara Jean gets an- Jean Covey from the begin- In the first movie, Peter watch, usually I look for fun- other letter from John Ambro- ning, this conclusion will not and Lara Jean started “fake ny movies and romantic com- se (Jordan Fisher) it creates a disappoint. dating” due to Lara Jean’s lit- edies are one of my favorites love triangle. Ultimately in the tle sister, Kitty Covey (Anna because you get a little bit end she chooses Peter.” Cathcart), sending out love of romance and a little bit of All three movies have a letters Lara Jean had written. comedy. I love that,” junior relevant lesson they teach, The movie concluded with Tori Riehle said. “I feel like which would be honesty is the Peter and Lara Jean becoming the series really shows that, best policy. Majority of the a real couple when the two because there’s funny aspects conflicts that come about in realized they had feelings for to it and there is always a cute the story are due to the charac- one another. little ending.” ters not being straightforward In the second, “o All the The movies are portrayed and honest with one another. Boys I’ve Loved Before: P.S. in a light-hearted fashion but “I think you can learn I Still Love You”, their rela- the romantic relationships do about something from tionship was threatened then not exactly key up with real- everything around you,” social strengthened. The name of ity. Nevertheless, the science studies teacher Kris McCarthy the third move is To All the behind romance movies al- said. “You can learn from the Boys I’ve Loved Before: Al- lows people to confront feel- people you are watching.” ways and Forever, which was ings and connect with what is One thing viewers do a wholesome end to the series. happening on screen. not see throughout the mov- “To All the Boys I’ve Ava Weiss’s favorite ele- ies is the perspective of Pe- Loved Before: Always and ment of the To All The Boys ter. The movies are from the Forever” begins by re-intro- I’ve Loved Before series is perspective of Lara Jean, and ducing the two main charac- how the relationships are ro- her thoughts cloud the work. ters, Peter Kavinsky and Lara manticized. Even though it is Viewers never get to see Pe- Jean Covey. The conflict is not like that in real life, Weiss ter’s side of things during con- introduced early, which is that enjoys it in movies. flicts between the two. Peter had gotten into Stanford The work contains un- Riehle thought that hear-- University, but Lara Jean had expected plot twists as well, ing from Peter “could have im- been rejected. The movie goes and including these elements proved the story. I want to hear