SEMESTER TWO STARTS with DISTANCE LEARNING Continued from Page 1 I Didn’T Know Beforehand,” She Said

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Student Swim squad takes ac- The excited to tion to have get back positive im- into water pact on her after de- community layed start Page 5 QuillFri., Jan. 29, 2021 Vol. 57, No. 4 Page 10 Robbinsdale Cooper High School chs.rdale.org/the-quill 8230 47th Ave. N., New Hope, MN 55428

ALSO INSIDE While elementary stu- News SEMESTER TWO STARTS dents are headed back to buildings, secondary WITH DISTANCE LEARNING schools will remain online District, the infection rates are still too high for students to return to buildings. “A transition in learn- AVID staff shifts ing models is dependent on to virtual model several factors, including COVID-19 infection rates AVID students, within our community and staff continue to county. In order to transition work toward de- secondary students to hybrid veloping academic learning, the case rate per skills, preparing 10,000 must be 29 or under; for life in college for in-person learning, the number must be below nine,” Page 2 Burrage said. To put those guidelines into context, the 14-day case News rate for Hennepin Country on January 18 was 35.6 per 10,000. With elementary students starting in-person learning on January 19, parents had the option to still keep their children at home and use the 281 Distance Learning BARR staff helps School. Elementary parents freshmen succeed also had the option to opt-out Photo by MR. ZUCCOLA their student from riding the Teachers, administra- school bus. This means that tors in the program Although Head Principal Mr. Herman misses seeing students, he said we all must avoid "spreading the virus to others." parents must provide their use data to guide By SANDY VUE Learning Plan,” Robbinsdale fourth and fifth grade students decision to bring those stu- own transportation for their freshmen as they de- Quill staff writer Interim Superintendent Dr. will be starting on February 1. dents back to the COVID-19 student to and from school, velop academic skills, Burrage said. The reason for the dif- infection rates in their area thereby limiting contact with earn class credits Cooper students will re- Even though middle ference between secondary due to virus mitigation efforts people on the bus. These Page 3 main in the Distance Learn- and high school students will and elementary students is that schools can put in place same options will be avail- ing Plus model along with remain in Distance Learning because each level is being for younger students. This able to secondary students if the other Robbinsdale School Plus, the district has been wel- held to different guidelines allowed districts around the and when a shift to in-person District secondary students coming pre-kindergarten and by the state for returning to state to start bringing back el- learning happens at some Opinion as the new semester gets un- elementary school students schools. Minnesota Governor ementary students in January. point in the future. derway. Secondary students back to in-person learning five Tim Walz announced on De- Meanwhile, at the sec- Given the uncertain are sticking with the current days a week. In-person learn- cember 16, 2020 that districts ondary level, the return to timetable for the return of sec- model for health and safety ing for pre-kindergarten, kin- needed to prioritize the return in-person learning is still dic- ondary students, the registra- reasons. dergarten, first grade, second of elementary students to tated by the Minnesota Safe tion deadline for 281 Distance “A model shift at this grade and special education in-person learning. In order to Learning Model Guidance. time does not align with the elementary students started on support that, he said districts In the communities that make SEMESTER TWO goals outlined in the Safe January 19. Meanwhile, third, no longer have to connect the up the Robbinsdale School continues on page 2 Attending class remains critical Local cities welcome their new leaders The realities of distance learning make While the national elections took the spotlight in November 2020, Minnesotans also voted on area mayors, council members it important for all By MAX REKELA-JASPER students to sign in to Quill staff writer their scheduled classes and stay engaged Change is going to be brought to local cities in Hennepin County as Page 4 new and existing people will take up leadership roles in their cities’ respective offices following the November 3, 2020 elections. In the town of Robbinsdale, Bill Blonigan defeated Wally Langfellow in the mayoral race. Blonigan has served on Robbinsdale’s city council for Variety 40 years and is entering his first term as mayor. According to an interview with CCX Media, Blonigan said he will, “continue supporting great city services and heighten [Robbinsdale’s] environmental leadership, inclusionary practices and improve city council’s already excellent listening practices.” In New Hope, incumbent candidate Kathi Hemken defeated Jonathan D. London in the town’s mayoral race. Hemken has been mayor of New Hope for 12 years. In an interview with CCX Media, Hemken said she wants to upgrade New Hope’s housing stock. “If elected, I want to continue upgrading our housing stock through the Great season ends scattered site program. I will work to attract more new businesses to [New for Mandalorian Hope], thus increasing our tax base,” Hemken told CCX Media. Photo by MAX REKELA-JASPER As for Crystal, the incumbent mayor, Jim Adams, defeated Steve Ad- Candidate Bill Blonigan emerged victorious in the race for Robbinsdale mayor. In addition to explor- ams. Adams has represented Crystal in the mayor’s chair for two terms now. ing the relationship be- In an interview with CCX Media, Adams said he wants to continue to make Hillen in the Council Member at Large race. Willis has lived in Plymouth tween the title character the city of Crystal “an inclusive community,” “a debt-free community” and since 1971 and is an advocate for parks in Plymouth. In an interview with and Baby Yoda, many “a transparent community.” CCX Media, Willis stated that his first priority is, “maintaining the highest new characters join the Finally, in Plymouth, incumbent candidate Jim Willis defeated Paul quality of public safety services for the benefits of all residents.” show in season two Page 8 College Possible still supporting students during online school Representatives of the college preparation program have adjusted their services to guide Hawks to future success Sports By YORDANOSE MULAT forms,” Darius Watt (12) said. “When I first joined College ting into college, College Possible also supports students Quill staff writer Possible as a junior, I was close to clueless on what I needed throughout their time in college. They continue offering to do next. We got straight into work. They taught me ev- financial aid coaching, helping students register for classes Cooper’s College Possible group has been adjust- erything I needed to know for the ACT and then practiced and guiding students as they navigate college. ing to distance learning in order to continue working a handful of strategies with us to be used on these tests.” One current obstacle to the support College Possible with students who want guidance on the process of Moreover, for high school seniors, College Possible provides has been the pandemic. However, College Pos- getting into college. supports students with all of the various applications and sible has continued to support students virtually. Ms. Mack, Cooper’s high school program coor- forms that need to be completed. “I have monthly Google Meets with my coach Fitness at home dinator, said that College Possible is “a national college “College Possible has helped me and many other and my coach also sends us emails with helpful infor- still a possibility access and success organization” that provides students people with financial aid advice, college applications mation. In my opinion, yes, it is still effective,” Maryfer from low-income family backgrounds with support on and giving guidance throughout the college application Garcia (12) said. From attending Cooper's their route to earning a college degree. College Possible process,” Fatima Arba (12) said. Although college visits have not been feasible during virtual weight room to coaches work with high school juniors and seniors to Another important form during senior year is the the pandemic, College Possible still offers virtual college moving around between get necessary prep for college. In addition, coaches Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). tours. Moreover, Mack said that one-on-one conversa- classes, many means exist work with students after getting into college by guiding College Possible helps with the process of filling out tions with coaches, online ACT practice tests and two for students to stay in shape them through their college journey. this document. monthly newsletters are still being delivered virtually. during distance learning For high school juniors, College Possible helps “My coaches around College Possible have helped The requirements to become part of College Pos- students prepare for the ACT, college essay writing and me with filling out college applications and the dreadful Page 9 finding a best-fit college. FAFSA form,” Watt said. COLLEGE POSSIBLE “College Possible has helped me in multiple After coaching students through their journey of get- continues on page 2 Page 2, The Quill News January 29, 2021 Culture specialists AVID program adjusts to online school keep their focus AVID students, staff continue to work toward developing academic skills, preparing for life in college on equity issues “Moving together through their high school career, students know that Three staff members are I am there for them when they need a tasked with supporting stu- cheerleader or a parent-type figure to remind them to do their work and be suc- dents, engaging families cessful,” Lieser said. “Growing up can be super challenging, and I’m so happy By CHRISTOPHER NGUYEN to be able to help my students in any Quill staff writer way I can, from taking them on college field trips, talking with them to another Cooper has three school cul- teacher or even helping their family fill ture and climate specialists who out the FAFSA.” work with students and staff to Having formerly taught in Coo- promote equity, support student per’s social studies department, Lieser performance and engage families. said her transition into running the AVID Working with ninth graders and EL program has allowed her to connect to students is Ms. Calvillo, working her students even more. with 10th and 12th graders is Ms. “When I talk about my AVID stu- Chiinze and working with 11th and dents, I refer to them as my kids because 12th graders is Mr. Patterson. I truly care about them and will push and According to Calvillo, she and support them to reach their goals,” she her colleagues are important figures said. when it comes to serving as a bridge Echoing that thought is Schaffer, between school staff, students, fam- who mentioned that she makes sure her ilies and administrators. They work students are doing well mentally inside with all those groups to help im- and outside of school. prove student performance in dif- “In normal times, I check in ferent ways. Photo by MS. LIESER through a variety of measures,” she said. “We collaborate with teachers “I sometimes catch kids in the hall or in Prior to the pandemic, AVID students would take many field trips to visit area colleges in person. to provide equity-based or cultur- as well. between other classes. I always pull kids ally responsive classroom resourc- By SANDY VUE However, Lieser added that stu- scholarships to six partner colleges and up to my desk or out into the hallway for es [and] we provide professional Quill staff writer dents can be removed from AVID if universities. one-on-one conversations.” development and training to the they do not follow expectations of the Access to opportunities like Act However, since distance learn- school,” Calvillo said. Cooper’s AVID program contin- AVID Agreement. Among the require- Six is one reason why Schaffer said she ing started, Schaffer said she has been During a regular work day, the ues guiding students toward success in ments in this agreement is that AVID likes being part of AVID. She said she working hard to connect to individuals activities of the equity team can be the classroom and preparation for col- students keep a 2.5 GPA, attend classes also enjoys learning more about her stu- through breakout rooms, Google Meets varied. Each of the specialists will lege despite the challenges of distance and be quality human beings. dents through specific units from ninth and emails. attend team meetings, have meetings learning during the 2020-2021 school One of the tasks that students have and 10th grade. For example, in ninth “Maintaining a balance in life and with students, plan for student group year. to do weekly in AVID is complete their grade, students are given an assignment checking in on mental health are very meetings, plan for classroom or staff AVID stands for Advancement structured notes. called “The Alphabetical Autobiogra- important to me. I always tell my kids professional development presenta- Via Individual Determination. It is a pro- “AVID promotes Focused Notes, phy,” and through each student’s pre- that it is so important to do self-care,” tions, work on recruiting students for gram that helps first-generation students in which students complete multiple sentation, Schaffer is able to learn more she said. various field trips, work on school get ready for college. steps, allowing them to review the notes about them. Then, in 10th grade, the The benefits of AVID are readily newsletters, connect with families “We work on organizational skills and help students actually learn the infor- class does a Race and Culture unit that apparent to the students in the program. about student needs, and support oth- to help kids be prepared students,” mation,” Lieser said. features a “culminating ‘Where I’m AVID student Doua Vue (12) said that er district events and initiatives. “It AVID teacher Ms. Schaffer said. “We An additional task in AVID is that From’ poem that is often very moving,” the program has given her opportunities sometimes feels like our role is best work together to ask questions and solve students show they have filled out their Schaffer said. to explore colleges and learn from real described as ‘all else,’” Chiinze said. problems. We go on college tours and planners. When it comes to junior year, people in different industries and places. Although they do a wide assort- bring in guest speakers from various ca- “Planners are just a good tool for Schaffer said students spend a lot of time She has also gotten the time to work on ment of things, Chiinze said their ac- reers. We work on life skills and money anyone to utilize in order to make sure on ACT preparation. While she said it creating her first resume and studying tivities are always grounded in issues management. There is so much that we all of the information you need is in one can get long for both the students and for the ACT. of equity. do that can translate into a work environ- place,” Schaffer said. teachers, Schaffer added that it is good However, Vue mentioned that if “We have a purpose and some- ment.” Students in AVID also spend time to see students get a higher score each she could change anything about AVID, times that purpose is misunderstood The coordinator of AVID at Coo- hearing from guest speakers, which has round. it would be the tutorial sessions. Vue and/or disvalued as many times we per is Ms. Lieser, who works alongside continued this year despite the challeng- As for senior year, Schaffer said said she doesn’t see them as being help- are tasked with asking difficult ques- AVID teachers Schaffer, Ms. Wineberg, es of distance learning. An example of students focus on life after high school. ful because she can normally just find tions about our education system,” Mr. Darsow and Mr. Simpson as they guest speakers that senior AVID students “Senior year has some of the best answers to her questions by herself or she said. “Our positions are largely support students. One reason this pro- had during fall 2020 is when represen- lessons on how to be an independent from the teacher. held by staff of color and most times gram is special to the students and teach- tatives of the Act Six Program took part adult in the real world. I love having Nevertheless, Vue said her time as we are the ones tasked with the huge ers in AVID is because the students and in class. Act Six is a leadership scholar- those authentic conversations with kids,” an AVID student will help her graduate responsibility to end all racism.” teachers get to stay together for all four ship program that looks for promising she said. from Cooper in June and attend college Now that the school year has years in high school, hence “they are students who want to work for justice Beyond the academic support that next fall. Vue said she plans to major in moved into the second semester, the able to build a really strong bond togeth- and equity, and who show passion for is provided in AVID, Lieser said an im- computer science at a four-year univer- equity team is getting involved in ac- er,” Lieser said. In fact, AVID is now learning and risk-taking skills. Act Six portant part of the program is providing sity or college. She said she still has yet tivities related to the college search available to students in middle school will be rewarding 45 student leaders full support to the students as people. to decide which school she will attend. and summer programs. Chiinze said they help set up college and career readiness programs for students. Ad- ditionally, they help students seek out HAWK tickets system shifts to virtual format summer PSEO college classes. Addi- Cooper's program for recognizing, reinforcing positive behaviors is revamped to work while students attend school from home tionally, for students who intend on taking college entrance exams, they By JACK ATKINSON HAWK behavior that action connects help students find ACT classes. Quill staff writer with. Once the form is filled out, the Calvillo, Chiinze and Patter- staff member informs the student that son are available by appointment as Distance learning has caused they have been given a ticket. needed between 8 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. Cooper to change the ways the school The names of every student Monday through Friday during the provides different types of support and who has received a HAWK ticket are school year. acknowledgment to students. One placed into a monthly drawing for priz- area in which this can be seen is in the es. The winners are also announced in COLLEGE POSSIBLE school’s use of HAWK tickets. HAWK advisory. continued from page 1 tickets have been used at Cooper as "We're creative in finding prizes sible include a minimum GPA of 2.0, part of the school’s initiative to provide for our student winners such as Cooper eligibility for free-and-reduced lunch positive recognition to students. In De- gear, gift cards and other treats," Smith or a Pell Grant, and a desire to attend cember 2020, this form of recognition said. a four-year institution for a bache- moved to a digital format due to Coo- Teachers who have given stu- per’s distance learning model. lor’s degree. U.S. citizenship is not Photo by MR. ZUCCOLA dents HAWK tickets said the system "There were over 130 students helps support positive behaviors. En- required to take part in the program. Students are still eligible for monthly prize drawings when they get a ticket. According to Mack, recruitment nominated by teachers for the month of glish teacher Ms. Prillwitz said she has for College Possible begins “spring December, which is awesome," Assis- HAWK tickets provide students with classmate. “Accountability” might be used the tickets to recognize students semester sophomore year or fall of tant Principal Ms. Smith said. "Decem- specific feedback for positive behav- shown by a student who shows up on who work hard during class. junior year.” ber was the first month of this weird iors. The tickets also remind staff mem- time to class with the proper materials. “This year I have mostly giv- The many Cooper students who school year that teachers were able to bers to acknowledge students, thereby “Work ethic” might take the form of a en HAWK tickets for students who have joined the program said they nominate students for displaying traits improving relationships. student staying engaged throughout the demonstrate hard work,” Prillwitz said. have benefited from College Possible. of being a HAWK. We look to continu- “They reinforce desired behav- entire class period. Finally, “kindness” “These are students who engage in “What I enjoy most is the help ing to find ways to support and recog- iors and increase the likelihood that might be embodied by a student who class and work well during small group my coach gives me when we do our nize our students." students will meet our expectations,” helps a classmate understand that day's projects. I think recognizing students’ Google Meets and I enjoy being able HAWK tickets are designed to Smith said. lesson. hard work in this way is even more to talk about my plan and get helpful support the concepts represented by the In order for students to receive When staff members witness any important during distance learning tips and a lot of support,” Garcia said. HAWK acronym: honesty, account- a HAWK ticket, staff members must of these behaviors, Smith encourages since we’re not in a physical classroom Agreeing with Maryfer was ability, work ethic and kindness. When notice them demonstrating one of the them to praise the student’s action either together, which makes engaging and Arba, who cited her relationships with teachers see students behaving in a way HAWK behaviors. For example, the verbally or through an electronic mes- working together more challenging for the mentors as being important. that connects to any of these four ar- “honesty” trait might be demonstrated sage. After that, staff are asked to fill out most students. I hope those who earn “The thing I most enjoy about eas, they are encouraged to give those by a student who does their own work an online form on which they indicate the HAWK tickets will be encouraged College Possible is how flexible the students a ticket. According to Smith, despite the temptation to copy from a the student’s name, their action and the to keep up the good work.” mentors are with the students and the amount of tips and advice I learned that SEMESTER TWO STARTS WITH DISTANCE LEARNING continued from page 1 I didn’t know beforehand,” she said. Learning School will be extended Head Principal Mr. Herman said the The decision to stick with the cur- learn things better...and that would defi- According to Watt, another ben- for secondary school students. If an health and safety of students and staff is rent learning model has prompted differ- nitely bring up my grades.” efit of College Possible has been the in-person learning model transition date the primary concern. ent reactions among students. One stu- At the same time, Vue said she un- positive impact it has had on his last is determined, registration and opt-out “There is no doubt that we miss dent, Melody Vue (9), said she has been derstands why distance learning needs two years of high school. forms for 281 Distance Learning School our Hawks by not being able to see struggling in some of her classes due to to continue. “I am certain that if I did not will be available for secondary students everyone in person, but we also do not distance learning. “It is unfortunate that this is how join College Possible, this transition and a new deadline will be announced. want to rush into starting something “Obviously, I would love to go things are going, but I know it is for the between high school and college may Although it is unclear when stu- where we have the potential of spread- back to school because I would have so best for my safety as well as others,” she have been much harder,” Watt said. dents will be going back to Cooper, ing the virus to others,” Herman said. much more help and I would be able to said. January 29, 2021 News Page 3, The Quill Teacher promotes Good habits can help curb all illnesses mindfulness skills Although everyone's attention is on avoiding COVID-19, common colds and flus are still an issue during the winter months to students, staff By MAJAY MURPHY Quill staff writer Ms. Dodd hosts mind- Winter in Minnesota can be harsh. fulness-focused Lunch The cold and snow make it more diffi- and Learn session cult to get outside. Additionally, this is the time of year when common colds By ANDREA TRIBBLE and the regular flu are easy to get. When Quill staff writer you add to that the even bigger dangers posed this year by the coronavirus, it is Last year made it difficult for important that everyone takes steps to many Americans to see the good remain healthy. Fortunately, there are in the world due to the pandemic, simple things all students can do to avoid racial unrest and political conflicts. getting the common cold and flu over the In response, some people became winter months. more interested in mindfulness as a way to deal with their day-to-day 1. Get a flu shot stress. According to Jon Kabat-Zinn, The flu is a respiratory disease the founder of MBSR Mindful- caused by a virus that attacks the nose, ness, mindfulness meditation is the throat and lungs. Flu symptoms include “awareness that arises from paying fever, dry cough, sore throat, headache, attention, on purpose, in the present extreme tiredness and body aches. The moment and non judgmentally.” Minnesota Department of Health rec- One of Cooper’s business teach- ommends that people six months of age ers, Ms. Dodd, is also a trained mind- and older should get the flu vaccine every fulness instructor. Dodd said she be- year to “protect you from getting the flu Photo by LOU VANG lieves mindfulness is a life saver. and prevent you from passing it to people “It keeps me balanced, it helps The simple act of covering one's nose while sneezing can cut down on disease transmission. who could get very sick.” me to stay focused on what I want to or congregating in big groups due to that spread around the community. Ac- disease, obesity and cancer. Having focus on and it helps me to better see 2. Wash your hands COVID-19, it is still important to be cording to the Minnesota Department good nutrition can lower high cholester- the good in each day,” Dodd said. Washing your hands is the best aware of your behavior when you sneeze of Health, exercising also can reduce ol, improve your well being and make There are a number of ways way to kill bacteria. Washing your hands or cough. The Minnesota Department of the risk of cardiovascular disease while you less likely to be sick during the win- students can practice mindfulness, can not only prevent you from getting Health suggests that people “cover your strengthening your bones and muscles. ter months. including mindful walking, mindful sick, but also reduces the risk of infect- nose and mouth with a tissue when you An additional benefit is that exercise can eating, mindful breathing and grat- ing others around you. This is important cough or sneeze, or cough or sneeze into keep your metabolism up, which can 6. Get enough sleep itude journaling. Dodd said it is im- because, according to WebMD, people your sleeve.” Not following these guide- help people avoid putting on extra weight According to the American Med- portant to find a method that works can still pass along germs without getting lines can lead to germs floating in the air during the winter. ical Association, a well-rested body for you and allows you to reflect and sick themselves. If you are in a situation or landing on surfaces, which could lead is one that is less likely to fall victim to simply exist in the present moment. where you do not have access to a sink to to someone else getting sick. 5. Eat healthy foods cold-weather illnesses. In fact, when you “People can practice mindful- wash your hands, you can also use hand Much like getting proper exercise, sleep, your body is busy at work repair- ness by bringing attention to their sanitizer to help keep your hands clean. 4. Exercise eating more fruit and vegetables can help ing tissue and growing muscle. Getting breath or to one of their five senses. Exercise during the winter can help keep a person’s immune system strong. plenty of rest can help protect not only You can also do a gratitude practice or 3. Be careful when you sneeze, cough keep your immune system strong, mak- In addition, the Mayo Clinic reports that your physical health, but your mental a loving kindness practice,” she said. Even when we are not in school ing you more able to fight off the germs proper diet will reduce the risk of heart health as well. Mindfulness has many benefits, both emotionally and spiritually. The higher-level thinking portion of our brains, the prefrontal cortex, is BARR helps ninth graders through high school transition strengthened by mindfulness. This Teachers, administrators in program use data to guide freshmen as they develop academic skills, earn class credits can be especially helpful for students in light of how much they are By MAKAYLA HOTT has time to work on interdisciplinary asked to learn while in school. Dodd Quill staff writer planning. equates practicing mindfulness to do- “BARR has helped me under- ing “push ups for our brains.” BARR is a Cooper program that stand the importance of identifying stu- “Mindfulness helps your provides ninth grade students with a dents’ strengths and students’ connec- brain be ready for the learning by comprehensive approach to meeting tions to the school. Whenever I meet strengthening the prefrontal cor- their academic, social and emotion- with other teachers and we discuss tex,” Dodd said. “It also helps regu- al needs during the first year of high common students that concern us, we late emotions.” school. BARR, which stands for Build- always start by trying to identify their Dodd acknowledged how she ing Assets, Reducing Risks, works positive traits and ways they fit into the has personally benefited from prac- to harness the power of relationships school. By doing that, we can try to nat- ticing mindfulness. and classroom data to remove both urally start conversations with students “I used to have anxiety and now academic and non-academic barriers to about their strengths and connections to I have a much more balanced rela- learning that freshmen sometimes feel. the school so that we can build a pos- tionship with the things that worry “The BARR model allows teach- itive relationship with them in order me,” she said. ers to work together to develop a deep- to help them improve academically,” Given the amount of isolation er understanding of how to better sup- DiSalvi said. people have been subjected to over port each individual student,” Cooper Photo by LOU VANG Although it has only been at Coo- the last year, Dodd said it is good to BARR Coordinator Mr. Haasch said. per for three years, the BARR program include other people in one’s mind- I-Time lessons are a central part of the support offered through BARR. “By focusing on building relationships has now been around for 20 years. fulness practices. and tracking real-time student data, we to know the individual strengths, assets students build trust with each other so During that time, the schools using the “You can practice with others in are able to provide supports and inter- and barriers for students. The teams that they can feel more comfortable BARR model have tracked student so many different ways, from walk- ventions that help students be more use their shared knowledge to provide taking academic risks in the classroom. success to measure the impact of the ing outside with someone and keep- successful. One crucial aspect of the in-class support, as well as connect I-Times can also serve as mini-charac- program. The data that has been col- ing your attention on the conversa- BARR approach is to build on student with other interventions and resources. ter lessons, such as the dangers of en- lected indicates that the program helps tion you are having, to doing a formal strengths. Teachers use these strengths Teachers spend time talking about strat- abling friends’ risky behaviors and the improve a school’s climate measures, seated practice with a small group of as leverage to help students find suc- egies that work with students so that importance of setting goals. This en- leads to an increase in the course credits people,” Dodd said. cess within their classes.” other teachers can build on that within courages them to make better decisions earned by freshmen, results in a higher While practicing mindfulness To meet the goals of the BARR their own classrooms,” Haasch said. while at school so that they can have grade point average for students and may sound appealing, many people program, ninth graders are arranged Another central part of the BARR better academic experiences,” social boosts scores on standardized tests. Ad- may have no idea where to start. If into four groups. Each group of stu- program is the weekly I-Time lesson. studies teacher Mr. DiSalvi said. ditionally, it has been shown to narrow that’s the case for you, Dodd en- dents has the same combination of an I-Time is designed to help strength- In addition to focusing on the opportunity gaps, decrease suspensions courages you to make the time to English, a social studies and a science en student-to-student relationships, students, the BARR program has el- and reduce absenteeism from school. do something good for yourself by teacher. The teacher team for each staff-to-student relationships and build ements in place to support the staff From the student perspective, the joining her Hawk Lunch and Learn group then meets throughout the week a classroom community. During the members who work within the pro- BARR program helps ninth graders mindfulness class during fifth pe- to monitor each student’s progress and I-Time lesson, teachers will work with gram. The BARR program provides succeed in the difficult transition from riod on Thursdays. During these discuss how far they have come. Also students on issues such as stress man- professional development to teachers, middle school to high school. It is also sessions, Dodd guides students meeting weekly are the ninth grade agement, bullying, building communi- counselors and administrators so that a framework that provides students the through various mindfulness prac- counselor, an assistant principal, a per- ty and substance use awareness. they have the tools they need to focus opportunity to get to know their teach- tices. For those students who are sonal learning coach and the BARR “I-Times can serve two purposes. on their students. The staff is trained to ers on a personal level. unable to attend, Dodd said that it coordinator, who offer each teacher First, they can be community-build- use strength-based techniques to build “I loved BARR. I like the activi- is possible to find many videos of team additional support. ing activities in which students learn positive relationships and support each ties we did and the teachers. It felt like mindfulness practices online. “By meeting twice a week, teach- more about their peers by engaging in student’s success inside and outside of they really got to know me,” Saief “Self care is important,” ers and support staff are able to truly get small group conversations. This helps the classroom. The BARR staff also Dahdal (11) said. Dodd said.

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Page 4, The Quill Opinion January 29, 2021 Sticking with Attendance is key to school success online learning The realities of distance learning make it important for all students to sign in to their scheduled classes and stay engaged is best option are all unexcused, the parent or guardian are usually contact- The district's choice to continue ed and the student could face problems with truancy laws. with distance learning in sec- During distance learning, ond semester will keep us safe it is important for students to monitor these attendance is- By YORDANOSE MULAT sues, especially if they think Quill staff writer attendance was improperly re- corded. Contacting your teach- District 281 has been pro- er, your guidance counselor or ceeding with a distance learning the attendance clerk can be key model since the beginning of the in fixing these issues. 2020-2021 school year due to the Whether the absence is ex- COVID-19 pandemic to ensure cused or not, missing class can the safety of all students. How- make school more challenging ever, recently, Minnesota Gov- because absent students are ernor Tim Walz announced that still required to make up any elementary schools can shift to missing assignments. When fully in-person learning. There- students miss class, they have fore, pre-kindergarten, first and to make up these assignments second grade students returned on their own and they will not to school on January 19, while necessarily have all the teacher third, fourth and fifth graders support they would normally are supposed to be returning to get during class time to un- buildings on February 1. derstand what they need to do. District 281 had been work- This is why it is important to ing hard to make it possible for make sure you are at school secondary school students to re- Photo by MR. ZUCCOLA and on time so that you won’t turn to in-person learning as well. The temptation to skip class is even more prevalent when every student is learning at home. have to worry about missing However, secondary students up failing. munication plays a big role. A any work. must still follow the Minnesota It is important to remember student’s absence may fall un- School attendance is an Safe Learning Plan. Therefore, From the Editors that attendance is more than der two categories: excused or important factor for any stu- although there were plans to shift One of the most important just showing up physically or unexcused. An excused absence dent who is trying to reach the secondary school back to in-per- things students can do to reach dialing in to a Google Meet. In- is normally when the student goal of having a successful son learning on January 26, sec- their goal of having a successful stead, attendance is about get- has a doctor’s appointment or school year. Students should ondary schools will stay in Dis- school year is simply attending ting to class on time and being a family emergency. In order try their best to be at school and tance Learning Plus. school every day. This is espe- engaged in the daily work that to get the absence excused, in class as the lessons start ev- Since elementary school stu- cially important in a school year is being done in your classes. students need to call in to the ery day. Additionally, students dents only have contact with one like this one when “attending This process of being present Cooper attendance office, even should show up ready to work, class and do not have to constant- school” does not involve phys- can help students learn basic during distance learning. because what’s the purpose of ly switch classes, returning might ically going to a building. skills such as being punctual When a student chooses going to school if you aren’t not cause the spreading of the vi- By attending class every and being accountable, which to skip school merely because going to do any work? If you rus. However, I believe returning day, students are more likely is critical to future success in they didn’t feel like being at are ever absent, make sure you back before everyone has access to keep up with daily lessons the real world. school that day, the absence are communicating with your to the vaccine is a risk factor for and assignments and take quiz- Whether it is during will be unexcused and will go teachers and getting your work rising COVID cases. zes and tests on time. Most in-person learning or distance on the student’s attendance re- done. Also, make sure you are Meanwhile, the decision to students who have poor atten- learning, students may have cord. When students miss mul- contacting the school about keep secondary schools in dis- dance are likely to be behind in really good reasons for being tiple days of school each week your absence like you would tance learning is a great one as classes and could possibly end absent and this is where com- and month, and these absences during in-person learning. it ensures the safety of students. Given the large amount of contact that occurs between students in secondary schools, keeping Gym classes provide benefits to all types of students everyone at home is important. Also, returning to an in-person Even though we are still learning at home, physical education courses can help Hawks stay healthy learning model halfway through By TIONA EDWARDS-WALKER one’s sportsmanship and social the year would have been a big Quill staff writer skills. In physical education change after secondary students classes, the teachers make it have gotten used to distance During sixth grade, I started important to socialize with peo- learning during first semester. to struggle in school. It put a lot ple during class. Additionally, As for the decision to move ele- of stress on me, especially con- by focusing on team activities, mentary students back into build- sidering the fact that I also was students can develop conflict ings, a big concern is that staff dealing with issues outside of the resolution skills, learn how to members have not had a chance classroom. It wasn’t that I wasn’t cooperate with their peers and to get vaccinated. This will also getting smarter; instead, it just develop leadership abilities. For be a long-term concern when and started to get harder for me to example, if you are the leader of if secondary students eventually focus in school. One class that your team in a game, you have to return to their buildings this year. always felt like a nice chance to learn how to make decisions that Since elementary students get a mental break from these benefit everyone on your team. do not have to switch from class struggles and participate in ac- Situations like this can be relat- to class as much as secondary tivities with friends was gym. I ed to experiences in adult life, students, the contact between believe physical education class- such as parenting. When you are students is minimal. This is an es are important throughout our Photo by DAVINA BELLINGER a parent, you have to make deci- important factor in the decision years in school, including at the sions that are not just the best for The group activities in the gym are on pause during distance learning. to return to in-person learning high school level. you, but for your child as well. at that grade level. In effect, Doing physical activity in demic success. Taking a physical students get the recommended 60 In conclusion, physical ed- the virus has a lower chance of a gym class during the school education class can help students minutes of exercise a day. Obesi- ucation classes should be part of spreading widely if a couple day can have an impact on your think more clearly and maintain ty and bad health are some of the every student’s schedule during students have it. Despite this, it academic performance in other focus during the day. main killers in America today. school. Taking gym classes can is still a risk for young students classes. Studies show that phys- Another reason why physical Not eating right and not exercis- help improve your brain func- and the elementary school staff ical activity during school actu- education classes are important ing regularly is something that tions, it can help you learn to to return before the coronavirus ally boosts brain functions. Ex- in school is because it is good to everyone should at least be aware stay healthy throughout your vaccine has become accessible to ercise can help eliminate toxins learn about your health. Learning of and that is one aspect of the life, and it gives you good life the general public. Waiting until and negative thoughts in your how to eat right and stay in shape teaching that happens in physical skills that will make you a more everyone has access to the vac- brain and help your brain pro- are important skills to gain early education classes. mature adult. I feel as if all stu- cine would have been a better de- duce endorphins, which can also in life. According to the CDC, Physical education classes dents should take physical edu- cision before letting elementary have a positive effect on -aca only 26 percent of high school are also a good way to improve cation classes. students go back in person. This would have ensured the safety of students and allowed time for the COVID cases to decrease to a January 6 insurrection is a new low point in U.S. history greater extent. Members of right-wing extremist groups and their Republican political enablers pose a clear and present danger to our nation When it comes to secondary students, the decision to delay By DAVIS RUPPERT-KAN liberal Democratic party to be things I could talk about con- Many posts across social in-person learning is a wise one. Quill staff writer some sort of Stalinistic Trojan cerning this incident. The blatant media I’ve seen regarding the Unlike elementary school stu- horse of the “radical left,” which hypocrisy of right-wing pundits matter seem to be buying into a dents, older students have wide Yikes. Where do I even begin had allegedly hacked and cheated having claimed Biden supporters sort of “horseshoe theory” fallacy, contact with each other as they with the events of January 6? throughout the presidential elec- would’ve done this very same riot- equating the far-right insurrec- switch from class to class. In ad- I was going to write about the tion, these rioters took over the ing in the weeks leading up to the tionists with the egalitarian BLM dition, there are more chances of rise of the American and global Capitol in an outright insurrec- election, the contrast between the protesters and making the claim students in secondary schools to right wing, its startlingly hasty rad- tionist, but luckily unsuccessful, borderline eulogies channels like that the police should have treated be infected by the coronavirus icalization and the stark contrast coup attempt in an effort to keep Fox News have been airing for the the rioters on January 6 as they had considering the fact that many between the state’s complacency Trump in power, or whatever else Trump supporters who were killed, the BLM protesters, inherently students have jobs and may go and outright rhetorical support of they were trying to accomplish. take your pick. However, there justifying said treatment of the out into public more than ele- these fascists and that very same Surely, by now we’ve all is one take I keep seeing being BLM protests. While it’s import- mentary school students. There- establishment’s vilification and heard of the five deaths to come circulated through social media ant to make such a comparison for fore, secondary students return- vehement curtailing of the left. But from Wednesday’s assault, notably that is especially problematic. rhetorical and optical reasons, do ing in person right now would even this seems trivial, considering the woman reportedly brandishing This involves the comparison that not make the mistake of equating have presented an extreme risk what happened on January 6. the Gadsden flag (the “Don’t Tread is being made between the state’s the two movements. of rising COVID cases. For those of you living under on Me,” right-wing libertarian reaction to the coup attempt, a Instead, I’d advocate for the Another important aspect to rocks or in blissfully ignorant echo one) who was trampled to death, planned riot that had been publicly framing to instead be geared around consider about keeping second- chambers, on that day, countless and the vehement Trumpist and discussed days beforehand, and the faults of the state, both the far-right extremists stormed the military veteran who was shot in the reaction to the Black Lives ONLINE LEARNING Capitol in an overt coup attempt. the neck by a security officer. Matter (BLM) protests only a few JANUARY 6 continues on page 5 Fallaciously believing the neo- There are a host of other months ago. continues on page 5 January 29, 2021 Opinion Page 5, The Quill College choice Everyone can do something to help society tough to make Having a positive impact on your community can come from volunteering or creating your own initiative to help others

many encampment hotspots shelters and food pantries that on one's own for the homeless. There were would be easily accessible for so many tents spread across those receiving the Blessing Seniors, juniors have the park that questions start- Bags. The support of everyone many issues to weigh ed running through my head: who donated and shared the when picking a school “How do they access resources post led to this effort being a during this pandemic?” “How success. By MAKAYLA HOTT do they get through the harsh Oftentimes, people ex- Quill staff writer winter months?” I took my periencing homelessness are curiosity to the internet and portrayed as people who you Choosing the perfect col- found out ways to give a little should avoid making eye con- lege is hard if you don’t know bit of assistance to those expe- tact with, people who deserve what you want to major in and riencing homelessness. their circumstances, and peo- you aren’t sure what you’re I decided to round up some ple who should be left alone to looking for in a college ex- money from friends and any- fend for themselves and make perience. At this point, I still one else who would donate to something out of nothing. haven’t chosen my perfect put together “Blessing Bags.” However, this isn’t true. Pover- college. I know I want to go These bags included items to ty shouldn’t be a life sentence to a technical college first and meet a homeless person’s ba- and those who do fall victim to then move to a four-year uni- sic needs, such as toiletries, poverty deserve support and a versity after that. I want to go menstrual items for women, community that will rally be- to a technical college before hand and feet warmers, socks, hind them. a four-year school because I snacks and first-aid supplies. The “unity” aspect of the don’t want to waste time and As soon as I took my efforts to word community is one that is money as I try to get my gen- social media to look for any- easily overlooked. As we step erals done. I have been doing one who would be willing to into this new year, I challenge research on colleges for a few donate, an outpouring of sup- everyone to take a step back months now and I still haven’t port happened. I never expect- from their life’s bubble and come to the conclusion about ed so many people to donate to take a look around. There is which college is the perfect the cause. It was very inspiring so much work that needs to be one for me. Picking a school Photo by ANDREA TRIBBLE to witness. done to make our community is definitely a big decision to Thanks to more than $200 in donations, Andrea Tribble (12) I started with the naive better, from supporting mental make, which is why it is not was able to make 104 "Blessing Bags" for homeless people. goal of making 30 complete health initiatives, to address- an easy process to choose the bags. After more than $200 in ing the achievement gap in our perfect college for yourself. By ANDREA TRIBBLE year, those numbers have only donations, I was able to put to- school systems, to protecting Choosing the perfect col- Quill staff writer increased as the COVID-19 gether 104 total bags. Among and honoring indigenous land, lege is hard for a lot of people outbreak has led to many peo- the many people who donated to raising awareness of LGBTQ because it is the biggest de- A study taken before the ple being evicted and facing were members of the Cooper issues. While no one can do cision most teens have made pandemic found that nearly homelessness. community. In addition, Ms. everything, everyone can do so far in their lives. For many 200,000 Minnesotans expe- One night, as I watched Kubista helped distribute the something to make everyone young people, it is tough to rience homelessness at any FOX 9, the camera filmed bags and put together a re- else feel like accepted and val- make decisions on their own. given time. Within the past Minnehaha Park, one of the source list that had locations of ued members of society. They need help when it comes to deciding things that will have a long-lasting impact on their lives. Clothing industry poses a threat to the environment Another challenge is that People's desire for affordable attire is adding to carbon emissions, the depletion of natural resources and growing landfills teens have many other things to worry about on top of picking By REYNA HERNANDEZ be increasing in noticeable ways. a school. In addition to looking Quill contributing writer Fortunately, there are things for a school, I have to worry we can do to prevent these prob- about high school and working How we dress is one of the lems. The first is to buy less cloth- at my job, which is putting me things that defines us. Whether ing and wear it more. It does not under a lot of pressure. you cover your body with a loin- matter if the clothing item is out of Added to that is the pres- cloth like our ancestors in the fashion or if newer clothes came sure of not wanting to make the prehistoric era or with the latest out, the important thing is that you wrong decision about college, styles from Old Navy, the clothes fully use what you already have. which could keep me from we wear are important. However, Another tip is to buy sec- being as successful as I want given all the new styles of clothing ond-hand clothes. There are many to be. Much like other high that emerge every year, and what stores that specialize in carrying school students, I just want to happens to the old clothing we no beautiful clothes that were in the make myself proud by making longer want to wear, it is important hands of a person who decided my college choice without the to think about how much clothing to donate them. In addition to the help of anyone around me, in- we consume and its impact on the importance of reusing clothing, cluding my family members. environment. buying second-hand is also not so Making the college deci- The average amount of cloth- expensive. sion for myself means that I ing we consume each year has Photo by MR. ZUCCOLA If you are inclined to buy new am no longer a kid. I am the been growing. According to the clothing, consider options that Studies show that it takes 7,500 liters of water to produce jeans. only person who can choose United Nations Conference on have a smaller impact on the en- what college is best for me. Trade and Development (UNCT- facturing, energy, transportation responsible for 20 percent of total vironment. You should try to buy No one else can decide for me AD), 40 pieces of clothing were and even food. However, accord- water waste globally. When you clothes made of natural materials what school I should attend be- bought per person every year in ing to UNCTAD, the fashion in- consider that it takes 7,500 liters such as organic cotton and hemp. cause I have to do what makes the 1990s. Currently, the average dustry is the second highest cause of water just to produce jeans, it is Perhaps the most important me happy and choose the right ranges from 34-65 pieces of cloth- of pollution in the world. First, the clear we have a problem. tip is to set yourself a limit when path for myself. I go by the old ing. When we no longer wear those fashion industry produces more The disposal of materials re- it comes to buying clothes. I bet saying that “good things come formerly new outfits, we each get carbon emissions than all interna- lated to clothing also connects to that some people reading this have to those who wait.” If you wait rid of an average of 30 pounds of tional flights and maritime ship- the issue of water. UNCTAD has clothes at home that still have the for something, it means you clothing each year. While about 20 ments combined. In fact, the pro- found that half a million tons of price tag on them and have never deserve and have earned the percent of this discarded clothing duction of clothing and footwear microfiber has been thrown into been worn. That is why it is im- thing you have been waiting is either recycled, donated or giv- produces 8 percent of the world’s the sea, which is equivalent to portant to not buy excessively and for. I believe I will feel this en to a sibling or cousin who it fits, greenhouse gases. three million barrels of oil. When unnecessarily. way about college once I make the rest ends up in the trash, which The production of clothing it comes to land disposal, the or- Overall, it is important to be my school choice. is causing a growing environmen- also has an impact on water us- ganization estimates that a quanti- careful, observant and attentive to One thing I am trying to tal concern. age. The clothing sector uses 93 ty of textiles the size of a garbage the clothing you buy and how that remember as I make this real- Another environmental con- billion cubic meters of water each truck is buried or burned some- clothing was produced. Remem- ly big decision about school is cern comes from the actual pro- year, which is enough to support where in the world every second. ber that we have to take care of to prioritize myself. I used to duction of clothing. When we the water consumption needs of With clothing production doubling our planet and one way to do so is always think about everybody think of industries that harm the five million people. It is also esti- between 2000 and 2014, one can by making better decisions about else’s feelings and how my de- environment, we think of manu- mated that the clothing industry is see that these disposal issues will clothing. cisions would affect them. As I have matured in high school, STICKING WITH ONLINE LEARNING IS BEST OPTION continued from page 4 I now try to worry less about ary students at home is consisten- used to the distance learning students who want to return to it would be better if these young- how my choices will affect cy. Most secondary students have model. Having students switch their buildings. er students returned after the staff other people around me be- a wider variety of more difficult once again to in-person learning Ultimately, the learning had access to the vaccine. Mean- cause it is my life. At the end work to do in school. As a result, would be another difficult tran- model decisions are having both while, secondary school students’ of the day, I am in this alone, they had a hard time adjusting sition at this point. On the other good and bad impacts. The return safety has been ensured with the and if something is not mak- to distance learning in the first hand, it must be remembered that of elementary students to their decision to stay in distance learning me happy, then it has to place, especially high school stu- some students have been looking classrooms is good because there ing. While this has a negative im- go. That is a good guideline dents who take AP, IB and honors forward to returning in person to will not be as much contact be- pact on the students who desire to for everyone to follow as they classes. Now that older students get involved in campus life. Al- tween these students, which will get back in the building, it helps try to pick a college. have spent half of the school though staying home is good for decrease the risk of them spread- keep the school year consistent In conclusion, picking year at home, they have gotten consistency, it is tough for those ing COVID-19. At the same time, and everyone healthy. the right college by yourself is hard. In fact, some people don’t go to college because continued from page 4 JANUARY 6 INSURRECTION IS A NEW LOW POINT IN U.S. HISTORY they can’t figure out what indefensible actions of the Trump in control of the presidency and more progressive ideas, and there of bigoted, fascistic, right-wing their perfect school might be. administration and the complacent, have a very slim majority in both are quite a few progressive (pro- populism. But, then again, the ev- However, it is important to re- if not complicit, aspects of the very branches of Congress, mirroring gressive by American standards, at er-radicalizing right wing, teamed member that it really doesn’t system itself, present regardless of President Obama’s administration least) political figures in Congress with the rampant vilification of matter where you go as long which party rules over the presiden- from 2008-2010. In the eyes of to push Biden forward. anything to the left of Nordic-style as it has a major you might cy or how many “bad actors” there the public at that time, Obama After January 6, I just hope social democracy by Democrats, want to pursue and it gives are in Congress. was viewed by some as the most this new progressive power is doesn’t seem all that promising you a chance to get your de- Since nothing similarly hor- “leftist” and progressive person in actually utilized, as not to recreate when it comes to what tangible gree. College is for everyone; rendous happened on inaugura- politics. Nowadays, the “Overton the material conditions that led progress can be made through you just need to make the best tion day, the Democrats are now window” has shifted to include far to Trump and the existential rise electoral means. school choice that you can. Page 6, The Quill Variety January 29, 2021 Premier Performers MCU gets closure in flawed Endgame The story of the musicians and artists who bring their talents to Cooper After the excellent Infinity War, Endgame has problems with characters, plot Zoey Morris By JACK ATKINSON will miss once I graduate,” she said. Quill staff writer Morris has taken part in numerous shows through her time in the arts. In ad- Zoey Morris (12) has gotten in- dition to The Addams Family, she was volved in a range of Cooper arts activities, in Hairspray and Ragtime, and even de- including theater, choir and art classes veloped her own one act show. On the “I’ve been in theater since fresh- choir side, she has taken part in the an- man year and choir I’ve nual Orchestra Hall shows. always been doing since el- Although the arts have ementary school,” she said. been a big part of Morris’ life “My drawing class I started at school, so have the sciences. up just this year.” “My favorite class Morris said her deci- in school is probably HL sion to get involved in theater Chemistry because science came from her desire to take has always been a big sub- a risk. Meanwhile, her in- ject I enjoy and understand,” terest in choir comes from it Photo by LIFETOUCH Morris said. being “a wonderful escape.” Outside of the school After four years in these day, Morris said she enjoys activities, Morris said she has developed watching anime and making soap and important relationships with her peers. earrings.

“With theater and choir both, I’ve After graduating, Morris plans on Photo courtesy of MARVEL STUDIOS enjoyed being part of a community with going into the medical field to become a people who I genuinely view to be my pharmacist. She also hopes to stay con- Seeing all of the Marvel heroes in one story is a definite highlight of a movie that has some shortcomings. school family and it’s something I really nected to the arts. By LUKE REKELA-JASPER like how they use it in the story. of time and he has to make some of Quill staff writer The positive aspect to the time trav- the most difficult choices in the film, el device is that it allows the main even sacrificing his own daughter Tabitha Bergeson Avengers: Endgame is the characters to travel back in time to to retrieve one of the six Infinity 23rd installment in the Marvel Cin- previous films, which allows char- Stones. Unfortunately, when we get By JAWENAH FREEMAN had an impact on how choir operates, ematic Universe (MCU) and was acters like Iron Man and Captain to Endgame, the interesting aspects Quill staff writer Bergeson said she has had leadership released in theaters on April 26, America to get closure with fig- of the Thanos character from Infin- roles in this activity in the past. 2019 to immediate commercial and ures from their past. Of course, if ity War are ignored. For instance, Tabitha Bergeson (12) is a singer in “I have been a section leader, a robe critical success. The film, which the main purpose of collecting the one of the first main plot points in Cooper’s choir program. director and a social director,” she said. rates at a 94 percent on Rotten To- Infinity Stones from the past is to the film is when the Avengers find “I took Freshman Choir, Bel Can- In addition to enjoying Concert matoes, made $2.798 billion, mak- reverse the “snap,” then all of the Thanos on his farm. They discover to for two years and now I am in Con- Choir, Bergeson said her favorite class ing it the highest-grossing movie characters could have just traveled that he has destroyed the Infinity cert Choir my senior year,” during the school day is of all time. While I think the prior to one timeline where Thanos had Stones to prevent their further use, Bergeson said. AVID because of the “rela- film toEndgame , Avengers: Infinity all of the stones instead of splitting which I think totally makes sense. Bergeson first joined tionships [she] has gained War, which was also directed by Joe up into different time lines. Sure, it Suddenly, though, Thor decides to choir during sixth grade. with all of [her] peers and and Anthony Russo and written by would have been a difficult fight, “go for the head” and kills Thanos. “I started taking choir [her] teachers.” Christopher Markus and Stephen but Thor proved at the end of Infini- As a result, instead of the compel- because I have had a love Outside of school, McFeely, provided a mysterious ty War by throwing his magical axe ling Infinity War Thanos, the bad for singing since I was lit- Bergeson enjoys spending and haunting start to this two-part into Thanos’ stomach that he could guy for the rest of Endgame is ac- tle. When I was younger, I time with friends and family. epic, Endgame fails to be a satis- be beaten. Moreover, with the help tually an alternate time line Thanos would always be singing no “I also have a hobby fying final adventure to the many of the powerful Captain Marvel, the from 2014, who has not yet met the matter where I was and no Photo by T. BERGESON farm so I love taking care of characters in the MCU. While Avengers could have easily defeat- Avengers and does not have any of matter what I was doing,” my animals,” she said. Avengers: Endgame is the Infinity Stones. she said. For college, Bergeson a bad movie, there still The alternate time During her time in choir, Bergeson will go to North Hennepin Community are some positives ele- line Thanos is not as has enjoyed forming friendships with College for her generals until she decides ments in the film. Thanos is a sort of protagonist in interesting or threaten- her classmates. As for her favorite choir what she wants to do in the future. If you are unfa- Infinity War. He is the character ing as the Thanos from memory, she said she has enjoyed taking “I am currently deciding between miliar with the MCU, the audience follows for the larg- Infinity War. For exam- part in the annual Orchestra Hall concerts. being a youth pastor or a veterinary tech- it is an interconnecting ple, there is a scene in Although distance learning has nician,” she said. universe of films and est amount of time and he has to Endgame during which TV shows based on make some of the most difficult Scarlet Witch confronts characters from Mar- alternate time line Tha- Ava Lindstrom vel Comics that all take choices in the film, even sacrificing nos about killing her place in the same uni- his own daughter to retrieve one partner, Vision. Thanos' majority of football performances while By ERIN CHUNN verse. Avengers: Infinity of the six Infinity Stones. Unfortu- reply to her is that he Quill staff writer social distancing and wearing masks,” War, released on April doesn’t even know who Lindstrom said. 27, 2018, ended on a nately, when we get to Endgame, she is. This is kind of Ava Lindstrom (12) has taken part Lindstrom has also taken part in massive cliffhanger that the interesting aspects of the Tha- an awkward moment, in many arts-related activities at Cooper. theater. She said she started acting in had Thanos, the main if you ask me. If the Over her four years of high school, she sixth grade and continued with this ac- antagonist of the film, nos character seem ignored. writers really wanted has been part of choir, Marching Band, tivity throughout her time at Cooper. defeating the Avengers Thanos to return and theater and art. “My parents like to say that I am by collecting all six In- continue on as the main When it comes to very dramatic and a big finity Stones, which allowed him ed an Infinity Stone-powered Tha- bad guy, then maybe he should have choir, Lindstrom said she character, so they encour- to literally “snap” half of all life out nos without having to visit multiple been resurrected, so it would have has had a “love for music” aged me to join the school of existence because of his fear of time lines. I understand that this is been the original Thanos who fights since elementary school. productions,” she said. overpopulation. The “snap” killed not the route that the writers decided the Avengers in Infinity War, instead “[Choir] has just been Another creative out- off many iconic Avengers, in ad- to take in order to help with charac- of this cheap, younger and less in- a great way to start the day,” let for Lindstrom has been dition to newer characters such as ter development in Endgame, but teresting version of the character. she said. “[I like] being al- her art classes. She said her Spider-Man and Doctor Strange, it is just too stupid of a plot hole to On the positive side, Endgame lowed to stand and move participation in Project Gre- leaving heroes such as Iron Man, ignore. does a great job of providing a sat- around rather than starting enway was a highlight of her the Hulk and Thor alive. This set A second element that makes isfying conclusion to some of the the day in a desk.” Photo by AVA LINDSTROM time in art because she got to up Endgame, in which we see the Avengers: Endgame a bad film is main MCU characters. While I may In addition to choir, use her "knowledge of the- surviving characters trying to fight the antagonist, Thanos. In Infini- strongly dislike the time travel and Lindstrom has taken part ater and lighting designs to against Thanos and reverse the ty War, the Thanos character has a the main antagonist of Endgame, in Marching Band as part of the color light the modeling portions of the show." “snap” from Infinity War. legitimate if misguided reason for the endings given to Iron Man and guard. Although color guard looked dif- Next fall, Lindstrom will go to col- The first element that makes wanting to kill half of all creatures Captain America are almost perfect- ferent this year due to COVID, she said lege as an elementary education or special Avengers: Endgame a bad film in the galaxy: he is fearful of over- ly done. When the MCU began with they were still able to have a season. education major. She also wants music to to me is how they use time trav- population and the suffering that the first Iron Man film, Tony Stark “We were able to still have the be a part of her life in the future. el. Much like Back to the Future, would cause. In a way, this makes was a selfish person who only made Endgame presents its own logic Thanos a sort of protagonist in Infin- for time travel. While I’m fine with ity War. He is the character the audi- ENDGAME Aaliyah Hassan their time travel premise, I do not ence follows for the largest amount continues on page 10

By ERIN CHUNN memory of her time in theater took place Quill staff writer during the fall show. Quill Comics Corner “We did a rehearsal the night be- Uhmm...Working Title By Davis Ruppert-Kan Aaliyah Hassan (12) is an actress in fore, but it looked kind of messy. Ev- Cooper’s theater program. eryone thought we were going to mess What started as a junior year class up on opening night, but we ended up she didn’t want to be part of at first has doing so well,” she said. become a big creative outlet for Hassan. Another creative outlet for Hassan In fact, she said her theater is her favorite class: English. teacher, Ms. Wurzer, helped Hassan said that writing es- inspire her to audition for the says comes naturally to her. fall show. “If I am writing a pa- “Once I started actu- per, it doesn’t really feel like ally acting, it changed my a task I have to get done. It whole perspective,” she said. just kind of gives me a way Of the many aspects of to express my opinions on theater she enjoys, Hassan whatever topics which I en- cited the supportive attitude Photo by AALIYAH HASSAN joy,” she said. of her peers as her favorite. Outside of school, “Everyone is truly so Hassan likes to relax her kind and sweet, especially when I was mind by knitting, working on coloring new and confused about everything. books, walking and watching TV. They really made me feel like I was part Although Hassan has not decided of their community,” she said. on a set career path, she is currently in- According to Hassan, an important terested in becoming a registered nurse. January 29, 2021 Variety Page 7, The Quill Fallen Order Focus on young Batman helps Arkham shine turns players Arkham Origins deals with an untested Batman who must deal with his inner rage while facing an army of foes into Jedi Knights Classic video game is one of many great installments in the Star Wars universe

Photo courtesy of ELECTRONIC ARTS

While not technically an open- world game, Jedi: Fallen Order has the engaging feel of one.

By ZACARI WATSON Quill staff writer

Disney’s December 2020 announcements about new media offerings in the Star Wars universe make this a good time to revisit the second-most-recent video game in the Star Wars franchise, Jedi: Fallen Order. This game was produced by Respawn Entertainment and released on November 15, 2019. Jedi: Fallen Order represents

Photo courtesy of WARNER BROS. INTERACTIVE ENTERTAINMENT another excellent installment in a current string of great Star One interesting decision the developers of Arkham Origins made was to set the action of the game on the night of Christmas Eve. Wars video games. By LUKE REKELA-JASPER out in the cold winter night. is unmasked, the Joker’s goal with Batman are unique and The game starts on Brac- Quill staff writer Batman’s isolation connects at first is to simply kill Bat- interesting, especially when ca, which is a scrapyard planet. to one of the main themes of man by placing a $50 million Batman engages with them in The main character, Cal Kestis, Batman is undeniably one Arkham Origins: Batman must bounty on his head. But as the boss fights. Out of all of the is a survivor of Order 66, which of the most iconic fictional learn to accept help from al- night progresses, Batman does villains in this game besides mandated the assassination of all characters ever created. He is lies, such as James Gordon, to something that shocks even the Joker, I think the best one Jedis. Since escaping with his especially beloved for having stop the Joker. At this point, the Joker: he saves the Joker’s has to be Bane, who is a bru- life, Cal Kestis has been living one of the most well-known the younger, angrier Batman life. As the Joker is taken into tal and intimidating adversary anonymously as a scrapper. codes out of all comic book is not willing to work with custody after being saved by to the Dark Knight in Arkham One day, Cal Kestis is characters: he does not kill. others due to the PTSD he Batman from falling to death, Origins. forced to use the force (there’s a While that mentality might has suffered after losing his the Joker develops an obses- Overall, I think what little pun for you), which results not always be for the good, parents as a child. His need sion with Batman, fascinated makes Arkham Origins one in him getting tracked down by it makes the character an in- to learn the value of team- by his no-killing rule, which of the better recent Batman the empire. However, he is res- teresting one that can always work is underscored in the would be so easy to manip- games is the relationship that cued by Cere, a former Jedi, be approached in different final gameplay section when ulate, as the Joker eventual- develops between Batman and and Greeze, a pilot. Cere tells ways. For instance, the excel- Batman must team up with ly does in the years to come. the Joker. Toward the middle Cal that they need to find a Jedi lent 2013 video game Batman: James Gordon to fight a group While Mark Hamill may be of the game, after the Joker is Holocron (basically, a box of in- Arkham Origins focuses on of criminals. This sequence is my favorite voice actor for captured, his origin story is formation) that has the names of the inner rage within a young- the icing on the cake when it the Joker, Baker delivers a revealed, which is immediate- force-sensitive children so they er and angrier Batman, whose comes to the development of brilliant performance as the ly followed by Batman’s ori- can train them and restore the one rule of not killing his foes the setting and the theme of Clown Prince of Crime within gin story. This allows players Jedi Order. is tested by a newly emerged the game. the game. to see the parallels between One interesting thing about threat: the Joker. A second element I love A final effective element the two characters and how One of the main high- about Arkham Origins is the in Arkham Origins is the va- they have taken similar jour- lights of Arkham Origins is characterization of the Joker, riety of villains featured in neys into becoming who they The game features its compelling use of setting. voiced by Troy Baker. While I the story. While I may prefer are. While some gameplay free roam, so when Specifically, the story is set may not agree with the game the more common Batman glitches and questionable sto- on Christmas Eve night. While developers’ decision to make villain such as Mr. Freeze in ry elements prevent me from you complete the the ideal place to be during the Joker’s ultimate reveal my Batman stories, Arkham giving the game a perfect rat- story of the game, the Christmas season is inside be that he has been masquer- Origins includes a variety of ing, Batman: Arkham Origins a warm house next to a cozy ading as Black Mask, it is a lesser-known villains, such deserves four out of five stars you can still go to fire surrounded by loved ones, brilliant twist and cutscene as Firefly and Electrocution- due to its amazing story and the different plan- Batman finds himself alone in the game. Even before he er. All of their interactions characters. ets throughout the game and explore. Final season of Titan is a satisfying end to series Jedi: Fallen Order is that, while The post-apocalyptic show benefits from excellent source material, state-of-the-art animation and an engaging musical score it’s not necessarily an open- world game, it’s still similar By CHRISTOPHER NGUYEN anime series works and helps it to one. The game features free Quill staff writer stand alone despite its connec- roam, so when you complete tions to the manga. the story of the game, you can Wit Studio is an anima- Another noteworthy as- still go to the different plan- tion company well known pect of Attack on Titan is the ets throughout the game and for shows in the dark fantasy, incredible music. During the find things that you missed or post-apocalypse and action first 13 episodes of the show, couldn’t access before. You can genres. Some of their hit shows the opening theme is “Crim- also get new upgrades, unlock include Seraph of the End and son Bow and Arrow” by new force powers and customize Kabaneri of the Iron Fortress. Linked Horizon and the end- your lightsaber. However, their best show may ing theme is “This Beautiful Another appealing thing be Attack on Titan. In this se- Cruel World” by Yoko Hikasa. about Jedi: Fallen Order is that ries, Wit Studio does not disap- Later, in episodes 14–25, the there is a log that keeps track of point thanks to action-packed opening theme is “Wings of all the creatures, monsters and fighting scenes and a creative, Freedom” by Linked Horizon enemies you fight. It also keeps dystopian concept. The anima- and the ending theme is “Great track of the things you discov- tion quality in Attack on Titan Escape” by Cinema Staff. At er on different planets, whether is also incredible and Wit Stu- Photo courtesy of PRODUCTION I.G. one point, both opening songs that be plants, old structures or dio is very consistent in mak- The plot presents many challenges to the show's central heroes. were released as singles, sell- force echoes. ing that a centerpiece of the ing more than 100,000 copies Throughout the game, you show. Now that the fourth and kill all the titans. Years lat- who asked his scriptwriter, in one week. Meanwhile, the can find different customization final season of the show got er, Eren, alongside his friends Hiroshi Seko, and director, soundtrack music to the series, features. You can unlock differ- underway in December 2020, it Armin Arlet and Mikasa Ack- Tetsuro Araki, to speed up the which is composed by Hiroyu- ent outfit colors, colors for the is the perfect time to check out erman, joins the Survey Corps, anime since it was trailing the ki Sawano, consistently adds ship, colors for your droid com- this excellent series. a foundation that focuses on manga at a very slow rate. intensity to the show as you are panion and, of course, lightsaber Attack on Titan takes place protecting civilians living In my opinion, I think the watching the action unfold. colors. On each planet, there are in a world where humanity within the walls of the city and anime does a great job show- In conclusion, I think At- at least five workbenches that is forced to live inside cities exterminating the titans. ing the important parts of the tack on Titan is a must-watch allow you to customize your that are surrounded by walls The anime series is based existing volumes of the manga series that deserves four out lightsaber, whether that be the that protect them from giant, on the manga series of the same and keeping it largely up to of five stars. The animation color of the hilt, different hilt man-eating humanoids known name by Hakime Isayama. This date. While there may be in- quality still stands tall in 2021, designs or the color of the blade. as “Titans.” The story follows has led to some instances when stances of “missing content” the pacing of the show isn’t These are just a few of the our main protagonist, Eren viewers have questioned the that is in the manga but not rushed, and the music is always great features of Jedi: Fallen Or- Yeager, whose hometown is pacing of the Attack on Titan the anime, it is not enough to engaging. If you’re into dark, der. Even if you don’t like Star destroyed by the Colossal Ti- anime. For instance, some crit- alter the story or disappoint post-apocalyptic fantasies with Wars, it’s still fun to explore and tan, an event that leads to the ics claim that the second and viewers. In fact, viewers who a lot of action, I think Attack on solve the different puzzles in this death of Eren’s mother. Eren third seasons of the show were are concerned about that can Titan is for you. You can watch release. The force is definitely eventually comes to terms with a bit rushed. However, this de- always read the manga. Ul- all the seasons of Attack on Ti- with this four-star game. May this loss and decides he will cision was made by Isayama, timately, the structure of the tan on Hulu and Crunchyroll. the force be with you. Page 8, The Quill Variety January 29, 2021 Classic game drops players Hate provides a powerful take on society's ills Based on the 2017 novel of the same name by Angie Thomas, The Hate U Give is a sobering snapshot of contemporary America in 1940s L.A. By ARIEL CHRISTENSEN Quill staff writer L.A. Noire allows gamers to be a police officer solv- The Hate U Give is a dra- ing a complicated mystery ma that was released in theaters on September 7, 2018. The film is based on the book of the same name, which was published on February 28, 2017. As you can see, the movie came quickly to theaters after the book was published, which is testimony to the success of the novel. Much like the book, The Hate U Give is a Photo courtesy of ROCKSTAR GAMES powerful movie with a strong message that every person should The graphics of L.A. Noire em- watch. This film is even more rel- brace the look and feel of famous evant in recent months after the Hollywood Film Noir movies. protests and riots that were going last summer. The Hate U Give ef- By CECELIA NICHOLS fectively shows the way society Quill staff writer uses stereotypes about black people to justify racism and violence Rockstar Games has a couple against them. of popular series under their belt, In the movie, the main char- including the Grand Theft Auto acter is Starr, played by Amandla and Red Dead franchises. How- Stenberg. She has grown up in Photo courtesy of FOX 2000 PICTURES ever, one game that seems to slide the Garden Heights neighbor- The Hate U Give remains timely due to its focus on issues of race and the actions of the police. under most people’s radar is L.A. hood, which is considered the Noire. Most likely, that is because rough part of town. Even though tional. You feel as if you are in member” who would just get killed ally powerful moment because it the game was published by them, she lives in an all-black neigh- the car with Starr and feeling the eventually. Starr reacts by pointing shows the way hateful moments but not developed by them. The borhood, she attends an all-white pain she is feeling. The officer is her hairbrush at Hailey, acting as if can quickly get out of hand. game was released on May 17, private school. The uneasy bal- also in shock, as he thinks to him- it was a gun. This is another scene The Hate U Give is a five-star 2011 for Playstation 3 and Xbox ance between her two worlds is self, “What did I just do?!” No one that effectively connects to the movie that everyone needs to see. 360. It was later released for Mi- shattered when she witnesses the could have expected for Khalil movie’s main themes. It will help any viewer look at the crosoft Windows on November fatal shooting of her childhood to die over a hairbrush. It starts A third important scene is world differently and understand 8, 2011. Additionally, there was a best friend at the hands of a po- to make the audience think about when Starr and her brother de- that what is going on with racism worldwide re-release on Nintendo lice officer. Facing pressure from how this type of thing actually cide to go to their father’s store in America is wrong. The movie Switch, PlayStation 4 and Xbox all sides of the community, Starr happens in our country and how it while protests and riots are going is successful in making viewers One on November 14, 2017. must find her voice and decide to could all be based on stereotypes on. Once they get in the store, feel as if they are in each charac- Despite all these releases, L.A. stand up for what’s right. and racism. some gang members who have ter’s shoes, especially Starr, who Noire is rarely brought up when One of the best acting scenes Another powerful scene oc- problems with Starr’s dad set the stands up for what’s right regard- titles from Rockstar Games are in the movie is when Starr’s best curs later in the week after Khalil’s store on fire. While Starr and her less of what others think of her. mentioned. However, I believe the friend, Khalil (Algee Smith), gets death. During the scene, Starr is brother eventually get out of the The film ultimately delivers the game is one that should be played shot by the police, who mistake at school when her friend, Hailey, building, a gang member pulls message that you must stand up by anyone who enjoys the detec- the hairbrush he is holding for a starts acting racist. Hailey then out a gun on Starr’s dad. Howev- for what you believe in and find tive genre. Potential players of the gun. When this happens, Starr is justifies Khalil’s killing by saying er, Starr’s nine-year-old brother your voice even though it may be game should be warned, though: in shock and is extremely emo- he was “threatening” and a “gang gets in front of the gun. It’s a re- hard at first. some of the cases deal with very graphic deaths and players will come across crime scenes where Mandalorian reaches new heights in great second season badly beaten or mutilated corpses are subject to investigation. In addition to exploring the relationship between the title character and Baby Yoda, many new characters join the show The game is set after the end of World War II. The protagonist, By ANDREW HAGGE who was kept from the public until Cole Phelps, is a decorated USMC Quill staff writer he was found by the Mandalorian. veteran of the Pacific campaign. While this did delay the release of He returns to Los Angeles, Cali- The first season of the highly Grogu toys and plushies, it did ben- fornia to live with his family while praised series The Mandalorian efit the viewer, who never knew working as a patrol officer for the ended on a high note. There were what would happen, or who would LAPD. many questions about what was show up, next. This approach con- In L.A., corruption is ram- going to happen in season two and tinues during season two with the pant, the drug trade is exploding viewers were anxious to see more appearance of several Star Wars and murder rates in the city are of Baby Yoda. More Baby Yoda is fan favorites, including a major at an all-time high. In his fight to exactly what we get in the second character that is seen at the end of climb the ranks of the LAPD and season of this action-packed show, the season’s final episode. do what’s right, it’s Phelps’ job to which is now available to watch in Another highlight of the show unravel the truth behind a string its entirety on Disney+. In fact, the has been the excellent special ef- of arson attacks, racketeering con- second season The Mandalorian is fects. The quality of the CGI has spiracies and brutal murders. He even better than the first. been similar to that in the Star must search for clues, chase down Season two revolves around Wars films, which makes the show suspects and interrogate witnesses the Mandalorian’s quest to deliver Photo courtesy of WALT DISNEY STUDIOS feel that much more cinematic. Baby Yoda to a Jedi so that he can However, there are a few sequenc- as he struggles to find the truth in Season two finally reveals the real name of Baby Yoda: Grogu. a city where everyone has some- receive the proper training. During es in season two when the visuals thing to hide. his first mission, the Mandalori- gets to where he needs to go. Not Grogu is still in the infant stage of and the audio used while CGI char- The game is set in Los Ange- an seeks out another Mandalorian only does he drop off his passen- development. Ahsoka eventually acters are speaking do not quite les, California in 1947, drawing in- who may be able to guide him to ger and cargo, he also finds some sends Grogu and the Mandalorian match up. This is slightly disap- fluence from movies and real-life a Jedi. However, the Mandalorian true Mandalorians. Together, they away so Grogu can determine his pointing given the largely effective crimes from that time period. For discovers that the other Mandalo- hijack an Imperial, Gozanti-class own path. nature of the show’s CGI. example, the “A Marriage Made in rian he seeks is not, in fact, a Man- cruiser. Once the Mandalorian has The Mandalorian and Grogu One element I found interest- Heaven” desk case is inspired by a dalorian, but someone who just gained their trust, the true Mandal- next go to the planet of Tython, ing about season two is its ending. real crime that occurred in the mid- has Mandalorian armor. Our hero orians give him information about where Grogu goes into a medi- In many ways, the central story of 1940s in L.A. The game is also soon bargains with the imposter where to find an old Jedi friend tative state to call out to any re- the first two season is wrapped up heavily influenced by films such Mandalorian to get this culturally of theirs. Along with the adorable maining Jedi for guidance. As this in the final episode. As a result, as Chinatown, The Naked City and important armor back. It later turns Baby Yoda, the Mandalorian sets takes place, Grogu is kidnapped audiences are left wondering what L.A. Confidential. out that this is the armor of famous off to find this so-called friend. by the main foe of the series, Moff might happen in season three. The The game has the player Star Wars character Boba Fett. After being hired to kill a Jedi Gideon, who wants Grogu for his Mandalorian could go back to join go through various ranks of the After learning no information by the leader of a small, Imperi- own evil plans. This prompts the up with one of his past friends or LAPD, from patrol officer to ho- from the imposter Mandalorian al-owned town, the Mandalorian Mandalorian to assemble a team he could move on to work for an micide and more. Patrol desk is about where to go next, the Man- soon finds the Jedi he is seeking, to rescue Grogu, which sets up the as-yet-unknown mystery character. basically the tutorial section of the dalorian must transport a passenger which happens to be the famous exciting conclusion of season two. Overall, season two of The game. However, each ranking has with valuable cargo in exchange Star Wars character Ahsoka Tano. One thing that the show has Mandalorian was more action the same form of gameplay ele- for the information he is seeking. She has a chat with Baby Yoda done a great job of is hiding the packed and filled with fun than the ments. The player is introduced to Along the way, he crashes due to a through The Force and finds out identity of new characters from be- first season. This is a consistently the case before going to the crime skirmish with some X-wings flown his name is Grogu and his age is ing leaked before each episode airs. five-star show that will leave all scene. Once there, you start by in- by the New Republic. 50 years old. Although that seems Of course, the main character they viewers excited to see what will vestigating clues around the crime Eventually, the Mandalorian really old, for his species, it means hid during season one was Grogu, happen in season three. scene. While investigating clues, music will be playing in the back- ground. Once you have found all Talking Dreams finds Echosmith at their creative peak the useful clues, the music will stop. I found this to be helpful The 2013 album produced multiple singles that moved around on the Billboard charts for nearly two years since there are some items lying By ZACARI WATSON older release for this review because the peaking at number 13 on the Billboard single from the album and it eventually around that don’t particularly re- Quill staff writer album features some of the best music Hot 100 charts. This is an upbeat song got to number 40 on the Billboard Hot late to the case. I’ve ever heard. It really makes you feel with lyrics that deal with a boy and girl 100 charts. While a little less rock than Next, you talk to people at the Echosmith is a band that formed when you listen to it, which is important who both want to be noticed. This is “Cool Kids,” this song has a great mel- crime scene to gather more infor- in 2009. The main genres of music in these difficult times. definitely one of the album’s best songs. ody that pulls the listener in. mation for the case. Once you have they make are indie, pop and rock. The When you listen to Echosmith's Echosmith’s songs on Talking If you are interested in the indie, enough information, you go to band's members are Sydney Sierota songs, they each have a different feel to Dreams have a way of bringing out pop or rock genres of music, and are various locations to talk to people and her brothers, Noah and Graham. them. Perhaps this is most noticeable different emotions, such as happiness, looking for something to connect to, who had some relation to the vic- Their oldest brother, Jamie, was also with the most famous song from this excitement, love, inspiration and a sense I recommend Echosmith’s Talking tim. You can drive to these places in the band before leaving it in 2016. album, “Cool Kids.” Originally released of wholeness. One great example of Dreams. This five-star album still holds Their most popular album is called on May 31, 2013 before the whole this is the song “Bright,” which seems up more than half a decade after its first L.A. NOIRE Talking Dreams, which was released on album came out, the song eventually to have all of those emotions in one release. As a whole, Echosmith’s music continues on page 10 October 1, 2013. I chose to revisit this got airplay throughout 2013 and 2014, package. This was the band’s second big is incredible. January 29, 2021 Sports Page 9, The Quill Fitness still possible at home Cooper Competitors The story of the athletes who strive for success in Cooper sports Many means exist for students to stay in shape while distance learning continues Cyrus Jarjay By FAITH KING “The trip and game over there was Quill staff writer always a great way for the team to bond,” he said. Cyrus Jarjay (12) plays soccer in During the 2020 season, Jarjay had the fall at Cooper. Jarjay has been playing a leadership role as a captain on the team. soccer since he was five years old. He said he served as a role model for “I chose to play soccer at Cooper younger players on the team. because of its environment. All of the “The boys really looked up to me players made me feel like I either way, but the label in- was a part of a family of un- creased the level of respect derdogs. I felt the dedication,” for me and authority I had,” he said. Jarjay said. What he enjoys most Jarjay’s favorite classes about soccer at Cooper is the in school include Psycholo- loving and passionate com- gy, AVID and Yearbook. munity that the team creates. “Yearbook is my favor- “Every player was ite because it further ignited humble with their abilities Photo by LIFETOUCH my school spirit,” he said. and we all had the common Outside of school, Jar- goal to change the way other jay’s interests include pho- soccer programs in the state view us,” he tography, writing poetry and drawing. said. Next fall, Jarjay will attend an aca- Photo by MR. ZUCCOLA Jarjay’s favorite soccer memories demically challenging school like Duke, Mr. Nelson is running a virtual version of his after-school weight room program to keep students active at home. include the countless bus rides, specifi- Howard or Southern Methodist to major cally the ones to Duluth. in finance, psychology or chemistry. By MAX REKELA-JASPER 2. Do chores and take movement said. “You can still use your body weight Quill staff writer breaks throughout the day and still get very good strength gains.” Believe it or not, simply doing One good workout to do is an aer- Jayla Reliford Staying in shape can be a struggle chores and moving around can help obic workout. There are many types of for students. This is especially the case one get exercise. For example, outdoor aerobic exercises you can do at home, By FAITH KING During the winter, Reliford plays this school year when we are all stuck activities in the winter such as shoveling, including jumping jacks, burpees, Quill staff writer basketball. at home due to distance learning as the building a snow fort or sledding can be mountain climbers and high knees. Do- “We achieved a lot of things last winter months arrive. Here are some great forms of exercise. If students do ing these activities will definitely help Jayla Reliford (12) plays soccer in season under the circumstances, but I tips to help students stay in shape while these types of activities, they are able to you sweat and, best of all, anybody can the fall and basketball in the winter at believe we will even achieve more this at home. get out of the house and work up a sweat do them since they do not require equip- Cooper. upcoming season,” she said. while doing so. ment. Reliford has played both sports During the school day, Reliford’s 1. Attend Cooper’s virtual weight However, in frigid temperatures, Overall, a mix of cardio exercises her whole life, but as she entered high favorite classes involve science. room doing chores or moving around inside with some strength training will help school, the schedules of the “Unfortunately, I’m Administrative Intern Mr. Nelson the house may be better options. Taking students maintain a healthy body during two sports began to conflict. not taking any right now, has been hosting the Cooper virtual movement breaks throughout the day distance learning. “My parents made but science is my favorite weight room on a Google Meet ses- is critical. Walking around the house in me decide on a main sport subject. There’s a lot to learn sion. between classes can relieve the stress 4. Use weights if you have them at for high school, so I chose and discover. Also, it is a The virtual weight room, which of distance learning and will relax your home basketball. I started to play very challenging subject and runs Mondays through Thursdays body. Lifting weights is the best way soccer again my senior year I love challenges,” she said. from 2:30 to 3:45 p.m., gives students According to physical education to stay in shape while indoors and because I committed for bas- Outside of school, the opportunity to socialize and exer- teacher Ms. Schaffer, students can incor- when it isn’t safe to go to a traditional ketball and missed the sport,” Reliford enjoys working out cise with fitness-minded people. porate fitness into their routine as long as gym. If you have free weights lying she said. Photo by J. RELIFORD and training for sports. “The virtual weight room gives they are “intentional about it.” Schaffer around your house, the winter season Reliford said the best “Those are my hob- students a place to discuss fitness and said that students could mix in a set of is a good time to use them. There are parts of soccer during the bies. I love to do them even how to use their surroundings to im- push-ups, planks, squats or crunches many different types of exercises you 2020 season were making new friends when I don’t have to,” she said. prove themselves,” Nelson said. during class since most students do not can do with free weights, such as bicep and getting the opportunity to get back Next fall, Reliford will be attending In the virtual weight room, body have their cameras turned on. curls, incline press and shoulder press. out on the field. At the end of the season, Jamestown University on a basketball weight workouts are the primary fo- If you have light weights at home, do- Reliford was recognized with the award scholarship. She plans on majoring in cus, as each student’s resources at their 3. Do different types of workouts at ing multiple reps and sets will help you for most improved player on varsity. science. home are different. home feel the burn. According to Nelson, attendance It does not take a lot of equip- Free weights strengthen the mus- in the virtual weight room has been ment to stay in shape while at home. cles much more than the traditional Ayden Davison “slow” so far, as only one or two stu- One could simply use household items resistance machines many people use dents a week are attending. weighing various amounts to substitute at the gym. However, you have to be By FAITH KING amongst my teammates and take a role “We have been a little slow so for dumbbells in traditional workouts. careful with free weights, as there is Quill staff writer as a senior,” he said. far,” Nelson said. “However, I would Some examples of these items are milk a higher chance of injuring yourself In the winter time, Davison said really like to start conversations on the jugs, soup cans or a stack of books. while using them. A suggestion to Ayden Davison (12) plays football he focuses on lifting and training to Schoology course that has been creat- “If [students] do not have access to combat this potential disaster is to find in the fall and runs track and field in the get “stronger and faster,” while in the ed for the virtual weight room.” workout equipment, YouTube is a valu- a video online of someone showing spring at Cooper. spring, Davison runs track. He said he All interested students can attend able tool to find workouts to complete you the proper way to do your desired Davison has been playing football is looking forward to track this season the virtual weight room using the code: without any equipment needed,” phys- exercise and start with lighter weights since he was in the second grade. after last season was canceled due to chsweightroom. ical education teacher Ms. Rademacher to practice good form. “My dad took me to the pandemic. a practice and I fell in love Davison’s favorite school since then,” he said. subjects include English and NBA pushes through two wild seasons Davison said he enjoys economics. In his free time, With the coronavirus still looming, the pro basketball league is having to get creative the teamwork that comes Davison said he enjoys train- along with playing football. ing and hanging out with By NOLAN ANDLER able to get the season restarted by Clippers, led by Kawhi Leonard and “I like being a part of a friends and family. Quill staff writer playing in a bubble at Walt Disney Paul George, had trouble with the family and being able to give As for his plans after World in Orlando, Florida. This move Dallas Mavericks before eventually my all for something I love,” high school, Davison will pulling away from them, and the The 2020-2021 NBA season went well for the NBA and the league Davison said. Photo by A. DAVISON study engineering in college. got off to its official start right before was able to get the rest of the season in Denver Nuggets, led by Jamal Murray According to Davison, He also plans on continuing Christmas. If that start seemed to come without having one coronavirus case. and Nikola Jokić, came back from a his favorite football memories his football career in college. quickly after the end of the 2019-2020 The 2019-2020 NBA playoffs 3-1 deficit to beat the Utah Jazz. were his “first time running the ball” and “I was blessed with the opportunity season, that is because the previous sea- eventually got off to a bang in the first In the western conference semi- his “senior year with Cooper football.” to continue playing and I want to play for son’s finals just concluded on October round when both No. 1 seeds, the Mil- finals, the Houston Rockets, led by Davison said he tried to be a leader as long as I can along with the benefit of 11, 2020 with the L.A. Lakers taking waukee Bucks, featuring league MVP James Harden and Russell West- for the football team this season. being able to further my education,” Da- the crown in a post-sea- brook, put pressure on “I tried my best to be a leader vison said. son pushed back due to the Lakers by winning COVID-19. The unusual the first game, but that last 12 months makes it an The 2019-2020 season was a wasn’t enough as James Nico Easley interesting time to look at normal one for the NBA until two and Davis led their team what has been happening infamous days changed every- to a 4-1 series win. In By FAITH KING weight room. in the NBA. contrast, the Clippers got Quill staff writer “[I try] to get better for the next The 2019-2020 sea- thing. The first was January 26, out to a 3-1 lead against coming season,” he said. son was a normal one 2020, a tragic day on which Kobe the Nuggets before the Nico Easley (12) plays football Easley said he hopes to take part in for the NBA until two Nuggets came back and at Cooper in the fall. Easley first started track and field this spring after the 2020 infamous days changed Bryant and his daughter, Gigi, beat the Clippers. In this playing football at the age of 10. Easley season was canceled due to COVID-19. everything. The first was were killed in a helicopter crash. series, the Clippers’ Paul said he enjoys football because of the When he is not competing, Easley January 26, 2020, a tragic The second was March 11, 2020, George saw his nickname opportunity it provides to make new said his favorite subjects in school are sci- day on which Kobe Bry- go from Playoff P to Pan- friendships. ence and math. ant and his daughter, Gigi, when Utah Jazz forward Rudy demic P as the team fell “They end up becom- “I love everything that were killed in a helicop- Gobert was the first player to test apart. Also unable to help ing family in the end,” Eas- has to do with chemistry and ter crash, a moment that was Clippers star Kawhi ley said. different elements,” he said. shook the NBA and the positive for the coronavirus. Leonard. Easley’s favorite foot- Outside of school, Ea- whole sports world. The In the eastern con- ball memory is from his sley enjoys taking on do-it- second important day was ference semis, the Mil- freshman season at Cooper. yourself projects. March 11, 2020, when Utah Jazz for- Giannis Antetokounmpo, and the Los waukee Bucks couldn’t do anything “The last day of sum- “Whether it be taking ward Rudy Gobert was the first player Angeles Lakers, featuring star duo against the red hot Miami Heat. Led mer practices, we got to play something apart and fixing to test positive for the coronavirus, set- Lebron James and Anthony Davis, by Jimmy Butler, Tyler Herro, Duncan kickball and dodgeball. It Photo by NICO EASLEY it, or just building an enter- ting off a chain reaction that eventually both fell in their first games against Robinson and Jae Crowder, the Heat was just a blast,” he said. tainment stand, it’s all fun to resulted in the NBA suspending the the Orlando Magic and the Portland were on a mission and cruised by the Easley was a senior me,” Easley said. season, a move that would eventually Trail Blazers, respectively. However, Bucks in a 4-1 series win. The Heat captain for the team this year. He said Next fall, Easley will be attending lead to the other leagues that were both of the top seeds were able to then cruised by the Celtics in the he tried to be a strong leader for his team college at Bemidji State University. running at the time, such as the NHL regain their footing and advance to both on and off the field. “I want to go to school for sports and MLB, to do the same. the next round. NBA SEASONS During the winter, Easley said he management and business or some type As time went on, the NBA was Meanwhile, the Los Angeles continues on page 10 tries to be consistent about going to the of engineering,” he said. Page 10, The Quill Sports January 29, 2021 L.A. NOIRE continued from page 8 Swim team excited to get back in water yourself or have your partner drive After a delayed start to the season, the Hawks are ready to compete through the challenges of COVID-19 there for you. Driving to these places yourself allows the player to In light of the pause, team mem- the coaching staff is 2020 graduate get more of a glimpse of what L.A. bers started virtual practices just af- Ben Hunke, who was on the team was like in the late 1940s. ter Thanksgiving break. Swimmers during his years at Cooper. Hunke Once you reach your loca- meet on Zoom after school to do was part of relay teams that set Coo- tion, you’ll normally have people dry-land warmups and exercises so per school records and was a captain to question. While questioning they were ready for when they could during his senior year on the team. people, you are given a series of enter the pool again. Heading into the first meets of options: truth, doubt, lie and view Since swimming relies heavily the season, Johnson said he is look- your notebook. In order to decide on being able to be in the water daily, ing forward to facing some confer- which to choose, you have to care- the late start is going to affect how ence rivals. fully inspect the person’s facial well the Hawks do this year. “Bloomington Kennedy has al- expressions and go through your “I’m most excited for when ways been a fun, close rival,” John- clues to see if there’s anything you we get back in the water as a team,” son said. can use against them. team co-captain Logan Voigt (10) According to Voigt, going to The facial animation in the said. meets is one of his favorite aspects game uses MotionScan technol- Following the pause on winter of being on the team. ogy. Thirty-two different camer- sports, the in-person swimming sea- “I am most excited for work- as were used to capture the facial son is going to be around 11 weeks ing together in relays and meets as a expressions on the actors’ faces in long. At this point, it is unclear team,” Voigt said. order for the player to be able to whether spectators will be allowed Although the season is already tell if the character is being truthful at any meets this season. in progress, Johnson said it is not too or not. This is both a curse and a “Masks and social distancing late for newcomers to get involved. blessing. It’s a unique game feature are the biggest change to our every- The team is looking for anyone who that makes the game that much day life at the pool,” head coach Mr. has an interest in swimming and more immersive. Yet, the actors Johnson said. “Meets also will have skill level does not matter at all. performing can overdo it a bit, a different vibe than they have in the “So if you have any interest at making it a little too obvious that past.” all, then come join us at the pool. their character is lying. This can Johnson said that younger ath- New team members will have a make for some pretty ridiculous Photo by JULIE BOSWELL letes will be key to the success of the good chance of lettering this sea- team this season. son,” Johnson said. moments. Cooper boys swimmers have made appearances on the victory “Logan Voigt and Isaac Bick- With one of the smallest teams Some cases can have differ- stand at conference, section and state meets in recent years. ent endings. These are some of the ler (10), both sophomores, will be in years, the Hawks swimmers are moments that make you feel like a By ANDREW HAGGE The first hurdle the Hawks ex- captains due to their dedication and still going to fly as fast as they can real detective. You may not always Quill staff writer perienced was not being able to meet leadership. Junior Ethan DeGroot through the water as they have in catch the right guy and save the in person until January 4 after Min- (11) and freshman Rowan Teirney any other year. day. In these cases, it will result in The 2020-2021 boys swim team nesota Governor Tim Walz paused (9) will be our top returning point “Our focus on having fun, per- you receiving a lower ranking and was sidelined like all other winter all youth athletic activities due to an scorers,” Johnson said. sonal improvement and team suc- some disdain from your fellow de- sports at the start of the season. increase in state COVID cases. This season, a new addition to cess is our strength,” Johnson said. tectives. For example, I got the last interrogation question wrong in a case and it gained me some harsh New college basketball season off to entertaining start criticism from the captain. When I went back and got it right, he sang The abrupt end to the 2019-2020 campaign had players and fans anticipating the tip off to 2020-2021games a completely different, much hap- By NOLAN ANDLER as it got to that time of the season, the ell (Seton Hall). return of most of their key players pier tune. Quill staff writer COVID-19 pandemic started in the Once the 2020-2021 season ac- from last season. Despite this, both Once you’re done with a case, U.S., resulting in the cancellation of tually got underway, there were im- teams have taken some tough losses you’ll see an end screen showing The start of the new college the college basketball postseason. mediately some interesting develop- early in the season. First, Wisconsin, your results. You receive stars at basketball season comes with a lot of After having the 2019-2020 sea- ments. The No. 1 Gonzaga Bulldogs, which got all the way up to No. 4 in the end of each case, ranging from hype and a lot of uncertainty related to son come to such as abrupt end, there led by freshman Suggs, dominated the rankings, lost to rival Marquette. one to five stars. These rankings COVID. After the unusual end to the has been a lot of excitement and hype No. 6 Kansas and Auburn at the Fort Then, Illinois, which was ranked No. correspond to unbecoming, rou- 2019-2020 basketball season and the heading into the new season. In the Myers Tipoff Classic over Thanks- 6 at the time, lost to Missouri on the tine, meritorious, distinguished many pandemic-related issues experi- Big Ten, seven teams were ranked in giving weekend. Then, one week lat- road. While these losses were tough, and valorous. The rating is deter- enced during the fall college football the pre-season top 25, including No. er, the Bulldogs knocked off the No. Wisconsin and Illinois should be fine mined by other information in the season, it will be interesting to see 5 Iowa, No. 7 Wisconsin, No. 8 Illi- 11 West Virginia Mountaineers. All of as the season goes forward. results, including the case report, how the 2020-2021 college basket- nois, No. 13 Michigan State, No. 23 these performances had fans excited Much like last season, the up- which tells the player how many ball season unfolds. Ohio State, No. 24 Rutgers and No. for the Bulldogs’ biggest test against sets and great finishes haven’t slowed clues they found and how many The new college basketball 25 Michigan. The Big Ten had the No. 2 Baylor, but that game got called down in 2020-2021. In fact, the be- questions they got correct. In ad- season comes on the heels of the most rankings in the top 25 out of any off due to a COVID outbreak within ginning of the current season saw a dition, there is the conduct, which 2019-2020 college basketball season, conference. the Gonzaga team. number of surprises: No. 4 Virginia includes vehicle damage, injuries which was easily the craziest sea- Outside of the Big Ten, the No. Another team that has been lost to mid-major San Francisco; No. and city damage. Finally, there is son to ever happen thanks 3 Villanova lost to Virginia case notes, which is a brief mes- to the unexpected perfor- Tech; No. 10 Kentucky lost sage on the case itself. mances by top teams and to Richmond; and No. 17 Overall, L.A. Noire is a great the eventual emergence of Two teams that are expected to do well in 2020- Texas beat No. 14 North game for those players who have COVID-19. Last year, four 2021 are Wisconsin and Illinois. Both squads Carolina in the Maui Invita- longed for the detective experi- teams ranked at number tional Tournament champi- ence, despite some of the facial ex- one all fell in the first two saw the return of most of their key players from onship game. pressions of the characters at times months of the season. Per- last season. Despite this, both teams have tak- Another surprising getting a little too silly. This is a haps the biggest upsets were thing about this season is minor flaw in an otherwise great when No. 1 Kentucky fell en some tough losses early in the season. that two schools that are game. I give the game five out five 67-64 to Evansville and No. known for their basket- stars. It is a worthwhile experience 1 Duke lost 85-83 to Ste- ball teams, Kentucky and for anyone who enjoys the crime phen F. Austin. Additional Duke, have not been good. and detective genre. underdogs that thrived last season 1 Gonzaga Bulldogs are a mid-major dominant is the Iowa Hawkeyes. Kentucky had a loss to Richmond included Gonzaga and Dayton. Only school that is now being treated as a They have scored more than 100 that was followed by a loss to No. 7 ENDGAME one team ranked in the pre-season top powerhouse. In fact, that’s where Ja- points in three of their games so far Kansas, which ultimately took Ken- continued from page 6 five last year, the Kansas Jayhawks, len Suggs, the top basketball recruit this season, led by the duo of Luka tucky out of the rankings. Meanwhile, was consistently in it all season long. from the state of Minnesota, went to Garza, who is on the watchlist for the Duke, which got all the way up to No. decisions that benefited himself. It Last season also saw three-way play this season. Additionally, two John R. Wooden Award, and Joe Wi- 6, got destroyed at home against No. 8 is fitting, therefore, that Stark finally ties in two major conferences. The teams that were successful last season, eskamp. Michigan State, after which they also becomes selfless in Endgame and Big East had a three-way tie for the the Baylor Bears and the Villanova Also looking good in the open- lost to No. 6 Illinois. sacrifices himself to kill 2014 Tha- regular season title between Villano- Wildcats, filled the second and third ing weeks of 2020-2021 is Michigan While things have not been nos and his army. va, Creighton and Seton Hall. Mean- slots, respectively, on the pre-season State. Although they were last year’s good for Kentucky and Duke, it has Meanwhile, Endgame shows while, the Big Ten had a three-way tie poll. At the same time, other schools pre-season No. 1, they were supposed made the start of the 2020-2021 col- the reverse journey with Captain between Wisconsin, Michigan State that thrived last year, like the Mary- to take a step back this season follow- lege basketball season an interesting America. When Steve Rogers was and Maryland. land Terrapins, Marquette Golden ing the loss of their point guard Cas- one to follow. After the unfortunate initially introduced in the MCU in Given all of these unexpect- Eagles and Seton Hall, are adjusting sius Winston. However, they have ending to the 2019-2020 season, it is Captain America: The First Aveng- ed performances during the regu- this season to the loss of key seniors looked great so far this season. fun to have the new season off to a er, he was a selfless guy who want- lar season last year, it was gearing who graduated last spring, including Two teams that are expected to great start. Fans of college basketball ed to serve his country in World War up to be one heck of a tournament Anthony Cowan (Maryland), Markus do well in 2020-2021 are Wiscon- are hoping that the 2020-2021 season II. However, his physique restrained during March Madness. However, Howard (Marquette) and Myles Pow- sin and Illinois. Both squads saw the will not slow down anytime soon. him, which prompted him to give up his normal body and a normal life to serve his country. In light of NBA PUSHES THROUGH TWO WILD SEASONS continued from page 9 this, it is fitting that Rogers is finally western conference finals, while the Lakers’ win also gave Lebron James traded Chris Paul to the Phoenix Suns. waukee Bucks, who have gotten off able in Endgame to live out his life Lakers won their series against the his fourth ring in an illustrious career With all of these teams so loaded, it’s to a rough start. Another team that has in the past with Peggy Carter. He is Nuggets 4-1. and the first ring for Anthony Davis, really anyone’s season at this point. had a rough start is the Miami Heat. finally able to accept being a little This set up an interesting match- who had already put together a great Over the first few weeks of the After getting into the finals last season, selfish in order to enjoy what he de- up in the finals between the Heat and career when he was at New Orleans. 2020-2021 campaign, it has been the they went 3-4 in the opening weeks of serves in life. Ultimately, Endgame the Lakers, a team that was playing Between the end of the finals in Phoenix Suns at the top of the western the new season. succeeds at ending the stories of with pride for Kobe and the city of October 2020 and the start of the new conference standings, lead by Chris Also struggling this year are two Iron Man and Captain America on L.A. After the Lakers quickly went up season in December 2020 came a Paul, Deandre Ayton, Devin Booker teams that had a lot of hype going into a high note. 3-1 in the series, it looked like game short but interesting offseason. For ex- and Mikal Bridges. Meanwhile, the 2020-2021, the Golden State Warriors In conclusion, Avengers: End- five was going to be the end of the road ample, the Minnesota Timberwolves two favorites in the west, the Lakers and the Brooklyn Nets. While the game may not have been as much for the Heat. The Lakers were wearing got Anthony Edwards with their first- and the Clippers, have had a shaky Warriors have been dealing with the of a thrilling ride for me as Infini- their Black Mamba jerseys in honor of round draft pick and they also acquired start. Both the Lakers and the Clippers loss of Klay Thompson, the Nets have ty War, but it definitely provided a Kobe during this game, but a valiant former team member Ricky Rubio. got rocked with some early season been struggling to stay above .500 satisfying ending to its legacy char- effort by Jimmy Butler and Duncan Some additional teams making big losses before regaining their footing despite the duo of Kyrie Irving and acters. At the same time, most of Robinson kept the Heat alive as they pickups were the Lakers, who got a to close in on the Suns. Kevin Durant. the plot does not make any sense if escaped with a 111-108 win. However, pair of great players, Montrezl Harrell In the east, the Philadelphia Clearly, it has been an interesting you truly think about it. As a result, in game six, the Lakers closed out the from the Clippers and Marc Gasol 76ers, led by duo Joel Embiid and Ben last 12 months in basketball. With a I score Avengers: Endgame at two finals with a 106-93 win. from the Raptors. There was also a big Simmons, have been at the top of the new season off to a start despite the out of five stars. Unfortunately, the This victory was a special one trade between the Washington Wiz- standings. Also in the east, the New continuing threat of COVID-19, it will film’s lows trump its highs, making for a team that has gone through some ards and the Houston Rockets for John York Knicks have been surprising, be fascinating to watch what happens it a disappointing finale for Phase tough times, ranging from losing Wall and Russell Westbrook. What is accumulating a winning record that in the NBA as this season continues to Three of the MCU. seasons to the death of Kobe. The more, the Oklahoma City Thunder includes a big victory over the Mil- move on to its finish.