The Bison – February 9, 1990

Associate Editor
A proposed two-pronged state tournament may affect the competition the hockey team faces.
Currently, all of Minnesota's high school hockey teams, despite their size and individual program, compete in a single tournament. Next year, that may change.
A two-pronged tournament, like the system that the Minnesota High School Basketball employs, has been proposed before the state legislators by representatives of a number of smaller schools.
If accepted, all the state's hockey teams will be divided into two classes. Each class will then have a separate tournament. How the teams should be divided has ignited debate. One camp says that size should be used to divide the teams, while another feels that past performance should be the critical factor. Yet another group would like to use both size and record to determine the two classes.
The majority of members from the BHS hockey team oppose the proposed hockey tournament format. They dislike it for a number of reasons. Tradition, as the main reason. They believe the two-pronged tournament would ruin the nostalgia which many current and former hockey players hold to.
“It would spoil the game for everyone, even the older players who just come to watch,” said senior Darren Gourly.
Members of the team site the thrill of an underdog battling the odds as an additional reason for their opposition. They claim that the two-pronged tournament would remove the opportunity for teams from the smaller schools to upset the odds and defeat a more talented, more powerful team. This, they maintain, would remove a vital element from the sport.
“The little Cinderella-team wouldn't get a chance to beat the big city team,” said sophomore Brad Rief.
The team doesn't feel that the state government should decide about the game of hockey.
“The politicians shouldn't decide which way it goes,” said sophomore Brian Kraatz.

News Editor
For the first time in history, BHS will be hosting the State Student Council Convention.
The convention will take place on Sunday, April 1, through Tuesday, April 3.
Approximately 300 students and 100 advisors will be attending the convention in Buffalo over the weekend. Out-of-town students attending the convention, will be staying with host families in Buffalo and the surrounding area. Student Council is still looking for approximately 150 more families for students to lodge with.
BHS, along with other schools from around the state, submitted an application to the Minnesota Association of Student Council (MASC). From these submitted applications, two finalists were chosen, one being BHS and the other Edina.
“It will be a time for Buffalo to showcase its high school, and its band. It'll be an opportunity for students to come to Buffalo,” said Student Council advisor Laurie Raymond.
The two main goals set for the convention are to elect new MASC officers and to present and debate resolutions on student concerns proposed by Council representatives from across the state.
“This convention will give us a chance to meet students from all over the state,” said sophomore Nikki Parpovich.
Due to the convention, classes will not be held at BHS on Monday.
“It is very unusual that we [BHS] do get the day off. And we are the only school in the district, which I think speaks very well of our administration to support an endeavor like that,” said Raymond.
In the past, the convention has been held in such places as: Rochester, Hibbing, Owatonna, and last year in Saint Peter.

Editor-in-Chief
Cigarettes seemed to be the main motive behind a burglary believed to have been perpetrated by three juveniles in Buffalo.
The three juveniles confessed to entering the home on January 24, then leaving with stolen cigarettes. No other missing property is known.
The suspects are currently in the custody of their parents, and the decision has not yet been made as to whether they will be charged as juveniles or adults.

Proof Editor
One student was arrested and two others were involved in the possession of illegal drugs.
On Thursday, January 4, at 8:50 a.m., a school principal informed the police department that one male juvenile attempted to sell a marijuana cigarette to other students that were in the building.
The decision has not yet been made to determine if the suspect will be charged as a juvenile or as an adult.

Associate Editor

The Youth and Government Program at BHS is endangered. Low attendance and changes in advisors have reduced the membership to two people.

The Youth and Government Program, where the students take over the Capitol and role play all facets of Minnesota government, may not be continued next year.

In 1988 the program became school funded. Since then attendance and membership have dwindled to the present two members. Nancy Bergert, Activities Director, fears that this program will no longer be continued because of its recent failure.

However, the two students, senior Kevin Anderson, and freshman Aaron Revrod, do not want the program to end.

“It’s a great opportunity to learn about the different branches in the government and meet people,” said Anderson.

Bergert feels that the problem is mainly because of two things. When Youth and Government was added to the program, it was mid-summer, and publicity was nearly impossible. However, Bergert advertised in local papers, over the intercom, and in the school bulletin at the beginning of the year.

Another theory is that having an out-of-school advisor, as BHS does, generally makes the program more difficult.

“In my hiring I always give my priority to a person in the building,” said Bergert. “[But] Is an activity more successful because there is an advisor in the building?”

Ross Ashburn, a recent graduate of Montana, went to school in Dasel-Cokato and was hired to advise the program.

Editor-in-Chief

The North Central Association, or NCA, is an honor society for schools.

Currently BHS is seeking accreditation.

The NCA offers its services to colleges and schools in 19 states including Minnesota. It’s based on the concept that schools can learn from each other when given the opportunity.

Not only does the Association offer interaction between schools, but also promotes activity within the education departments of a member school through review.

Once a school is accredited, it must undergo an evaluation at least once every seven years. An evaluation consists of a self study done by the school’s staff, a review carried out by a team of educators not employed by the school, and a school-designed improvement plan based on the findings of the self-study and the team visit.

An NCA pamphlet titled, “Protect the Learning Process,” said, “The purpose of accreditation and evaluation is to structure an ongoing dialogue within the school to determine what should be done for students, what is being done, and what needs to be changed.”

Schools that aren’t accredited are rarely asked to contribute members for review teams for NCA schools, but English teacher Sharon Barsness has been chosen in the past.

“We should belong because of the process that it opens up to us,” said Barsness. “It gets teachers out into other buildings and other teachers into our building.”

“We are going to see, 10 or 20 years down the road, a new educational system--we are looking at work,” continued Barsness.

If the future does hold restructuring, the NCA could provide the school with information on other schools programs and how effective those programs are.

The NCA is a completely voluntary organization, and no advice given would have to be heeded.

Said Barsness, “They can’t harm us in any way, they can only help us.”

Feature Editor

Amnesty International, an organization advocating human rights, helps students attempt to free political prisoners and learn about human rights.

It fights for human rights in two ways: petitioning governments committing human rights abuses and raising the public’s awareness of human rights.

Amnesty has been a group at BHS for three years.

The names of prisoners to write for are mailed to them about once a month. They have had a positive influence on people in the past according to Ause. They have not had any responses yet this year due to the fact that they have not received the Amnesty newsletter with the prisoners names.

They write to government officials, telling not only that they know of their crimes, but that will do everything in their power to see their misdeeds known to the world.

“Even if no one is freed, we just are made aware. And to see that we are a part of it,” said advisor John Ause.

The organization tries to free both prisoners held for purely political reasons and prisoners of conscience, people held captive because they non-violently exercised their beliefs.

“It gives students a unique opportunity to participate in world events and bring justice,” said Amnesty President Eric Bakke.

Associate Editor

One student is on the stand, while another student asks “is it true that you drank at the party?”

Student lawyers from Maple Lake rise and object to the question, only to have lawyer Bob Anderson of Buffalo overrule their objection.

Mock Trial is comparable to the One-Act and Multi-Act plays, in that the participants play either lawyers or witnesses, and present a case for competition.

In addition to working with advisor Laurie Raymond, they work with lawyer Kevin Tierany.

“If you have any desire to become a lawyer, Mock Trial is the place to be,” said junior Mary Kate Hannon.

Most of the members are considering becoming lawyers.

“It’s really great way to be with people with the same interest, and learn more about law,” said sophomore Monica Tormodson.

The team is enjoying a perfect season thus far, having won its first two invitationals.

Like its fellow academic activities, Citizen’s Bee and Knowledge Building, it has been around for two years and requires specialized knowledge.

The team practices three or four times a week.

“For the first year, it’s been great, and I would encourage others to join next year and come to our meets,” said sophomore Sally Lundeen.

The Tatanka, geared for improvement, is nearing the final stages of putting out the annual yearbook.

“Our major goals, compared to last year, are better copy and better photos,” said junior Julie Tombers, the Activities Editor..

“We do a lot of work like layout and writing stories. We’re responsible for getting our own pictures and captions,” said Tombers.

Although the editors do most of the writing and the layout of the paper, the students in Journalism/Yearbook class contribute stories and some learn photography as well.

“It’s going to be a great book. I think the whole school is going to be surprised with what we turn out this year,” said Tombers.

Experience, friendship, and the appearance of yearbook duty on a resume or college application were a few reasons cited for joining yearbook.

“You are getting published as a writer, and you are getting help to become a better writer,” said junior Carmen Burgess.

They have 2 deadlines left and they are on schedule for the year. The yearbook will probably be out on time.

State Caucuses to be held

Both the Republican and Democratic parties will be having a caucus on February 27, 1990. The participants will select candidates for the upcoming elections, propose and vote on elections, and attend to other party business. Anyone over 18 may vote; younger students may attend, but not vote.

Seniors to sponsor events

The senior class plans to sponsor activities in March. They are looking into handing out “Dilly Bars” to the student body: to ninth and tenth graders on one day, and eleventh and twelfth graders on another day. They have not decided on what to call “their week” or scheduled any other events.

Survey results released

A recent survey was just released, asking for comments and suggestions for the Library staff. Comments ranged from purchasing more sports-related books and adult level books to purchasing more best sellers..

Approximately 50% of the 778 students polled stated that they liked to read novels for fun.

“A” Honor Roll

12th Grade 26%

th Grade 20%

10th Grade 25%

11th Grade 29%

“B” Honor Roll

12th Grade 29%

th Grade 21%

10th Grade 21%

11th Grade 29%

If actions speak louder than words, the School Board places Student Council over the importance of the civil rights movement. During one day of the Student Council State Convention, school will not be held, while we, on-the-other-hand, came to school on Martin Luther King Jr. Day.

In response to requests for the day off last year, the School Board argues if they give us the day to ourselves, we will learn nothing about King or the civil rights movement. Yet, by bringing us here, they subtly teach us by their actions that King and his work mean little more than National Aardvark week.

This subtle, unintentional message promotes racism.

The members of the School Board have forgotten that school has a social function as well as an educational one. Before and after school, in between classes, and during lunch, we learn what other students believe in and value, not only by what they say but by what they do. Athletes are expected to set "good examples" and be role models for their peers and younger students. Teachers are judged by their actions also.

Why not the School Board in this instance?

We know that actions speak louder than words. In the case of Martin Luther King Jr. Day, words and videos and good intentions are just lip-service--the worst kind of racism.

A day off has weight. If school places importance on MLK they can teach us in school the Friday before the official holiday, and out of school.

Every administrator and teacher in the building knows that the student body places more value on what they do, rather than what they say. We hold what the School Board may say about civil rights as less important than them not giving us the day to ourselves. We want the School Board to send us another message.

In the 1950's, for the last time, children recited with their teacher a meal prayer. Courts ruled this practice violated separation of church and state demanded by the Constitution.

Constitutional questions of separation of church and state, especially in schools, still exist in the 90's.

Teachers have been reprimanded for holding optional school activities on a Wednesday, church night. They broke no written rules, yet still received flack because an unofficial bargain between church and state.

Currently, an unwritten agreement operates between the local churches and BHS, whereby school will not schedule any Wednesday evening activities. In return, the churches refrain from exercising their right to pull students from the school day for religious instruction.

This rule, however convenient, needs scrutiny.

First of all, teachers, advisors, coaches, and students should have a right to set-up and attend optional school activities on Wednesday. After all, why should we permit a rule that skirts the spirit of the Constitution?

Rulings should be flexible. However, this rule is too encompassing, too inflexible. Students should have the right to attend optional activities on Wednesdays. This would help in scheduling for juniors and seniors who are involved in several activities and hold jobs--and are past the age of confirmation. This would also not offend those students who are not religious. This would be flexible for both school and church.

A more hardline approach would argue, that school reserving Wednesday nights for church is a violation of the constitution, allowed only because "no one complains." If the school is agreeing to this unwritten rule because, this way, students stay in school during the day, this is state support for religion. After all, how many parents could take time out of their work schedule to drive their child to religious instruction during the school day? Not many. In this case, the school supports religion.

Although few churches or schools are noted for their flexibility, we want a change, we want a more pliant rule.

People have no religious choice in the Soviet Union. This generates the rock group Gorky Park's ironic nature.

"Rock and roll is our religion--what we believe in and what our souls live on," states one of their record jackets. "Being patient and open hearted brings back joy to the spirit and dispels the bitterness and pain. That's the great happiness and the joy of believers in the self and in rock and roll."

Gorky park is a mixture of Bad English and Bon Jovi. The two songs with which BHS grown most familiar to are Bang and Try to find me, both of which have the heat and soul of a love song.

All of Gorky park's songs have a message. They attempt to relate what a child growing up in the Soviet Union had to go through. When people listen to their songs with hearts instead of ears, this deeper depth, beauty, and meaning become crystalline.

The members of Gorky Park are: Alexel Belou (lead guitar), Nikolai Noskoov (lead vocals), B.G. Sasha Minkou (bass guitar), Jan Ianenkov (acoustic guitar), and Sasha Luou (drums).

One song that strongly demonstrates their feelings is Children of the Wind. It's trying to tell you how hard it really was to grow up in the Soviet Union, and how things have changed since they were growing up.

If it wasn't for people like Jon Bon Jovi, Jim Lewis, and Doc McGee, the music of Gorky Park would not be possible. Bon Jovi was the first American hard rock band to have albums sold in the USSR, and that started opening doors for the music of Gorky Park.

To the Editor

I am writing in regards as to what is accepted as excusable in our school.

There seems to be a conflict as to whether the excuse of "personal reasons" is acceptable. When my dad writes me notes to get out of school, the reason he states is that it is personal, for just that reason. He feels that it's none of the schools business and that if he wanted them to know he would have written it on the note.

You'd think that there wouldn't be a problem: its not forged and its signed by my dad. Well, every time, it never fails I get questioned as to what the reason is. am told that personal reasons is nor excusable and that if I refuse to say where it is that I am going I will be unable to leave the building.

When I am asked this my reply is that it's personal and that if it's not good enough coming from me Stytrowl can call my dad who will also tell him its personal.

You'd think they would quit hassling us, I've been here two and one-half years. I'm constantly told by Styrowl that the policy says the school has to know. Well just because the policy says it doesn't mean its right, does it?

My dad doesn't just write personal for kicks, he feels that it is irrelevant for the school to know as long as I have his permission. If for some reason he felt it was something the school should know I assure you he'd tell them.

So I guess, until this so-called policy changes, the office will have to learn to accept "personal reasons" as an excuse, at least for me because the way I see it there's no other choice. It's personal and that's that.

Junior
Laurie Christian

Arsenio Day.
The lives of countless numbers of people have been guided and nurtured by this man. He believes in the equality of all people, and the non-violent, humorous resistance to all racial separation...

Countless times he has gone out of his way to mention a racial stereotype that isn't in vogue anymore, and in doing so erases destructive barriers...

He can reach a cross-section of America never reached before, consisting of all races, all creeds, and both sexes. Undeniably, he is a successful man by most's standards, and he hasn't lost his personality and values inthe process of achievement...

We honor our chosen, our favorite citizens. The few, the proud, the nationally popular.

The "chosen" members of our society receive these awards out of popularity. If an Arsenio Day were named this month, I think a comparable number of people would celebrate it as, oh, say the highly celebrated Martin Luther King Day this year.

All the things I have said about Mr. Hall are true; he is an amazing man. Nor do I wish to badmouth Dr. King--I'm no masicist. I would, however, like to present the opposing view of a minority.

National holidays named after one person or a special interest group are done so by the popular consent of the majority. If Dr. King's popularity was enough for him to honored in such a way, why not Mr. Hall's, or Johnny Depp's, or Mary Lou Retton's, or even Herbert Hoover's?

The most frequent counter-argument there is that Dr. King did something morally popular, not just popular. That's why he deserves a day.

Pardon me, but we could interpret that either of two ways: a criminal breach of the separation of Church and State, or totalitarianism. If your religion establishes your morals, or if you've developed them on your own, don't affect others with enforced recognition.

If the practice of naming a "day" after a person or group is unconstitutionally accepted, countless groups will eventually petition the government for their "day", and all will eventually win using the argument that they are the repressed minority.

The government's policy to end the turmoil should be to abstain from giving people or groups "days", and stick to the purely state-oriented holidays such as Veteran's Day and the Fourth of July.

I'm sorry, Arsenio, but I wouldn't want to be kicked out of public institutions to commemorate your birthday.

Bethany has been tattooed on my butt since the day I was born. Bethany Lutheran College that is.

The grand design my parents have for me, since I was two years old, is to attend this school--their alma mater. The beginnings of a family tradition.

What brought on this sudden college nightmare you might ask. Like most juniors I recently got my PSAT scores back, and let's just say I wasn't impressed.

Neither were my parents. My brother even told me that Herbert Hoover wouldn't be impressed.

Not good.

How good could the PSAT scores be of a guy who sold vacuum cleaners?

When parents see less-than-promising scores that shatter their dreams of their child becoming a rocket scientist on a full-scholarship--you have to act fast.

Real fast. Lie. The bigger the better.
It's your only chance to save them from reality.
Tell them:

"I saw Elvis on the way to school and he forced me to eat a banana and bacon sandwich fried in oil--you're lucky I didn't have a stroke!"

"I'm just stupid. Leave me alone."
"All the toxins in the atmosphere made my brain shrink to the size of a pea."

"What did you expect, I am my parents' child?"

"I decided that these tests were trying to judge my intelligence against my will and I thought this test was morally wrong" (this one should work with hippie parents).

"I was drunk the day of the test" (my advice to those of you who use this excuse: Buy another bottle of Boones Farm).

"I was deep in thought about starting my own religion, becoming my own prophet."

"I plead the fifth--or is it the sixth?"

I used one about starting my own religion and my parents were not impressed. When they started to balk, I told them I was going to follow the footsteps of Danforth Quayle and become a lawyer and politician--his scores were not so hot.

Telling your parents you're going to become a lawyer always shuts them up.

No kidding. It's the best.

I've noticed, too, that parents during a child's junior and senior year, get this weird condition. They begin to leave college pamphlets on your bed, taped to the TV screen, or even tucked in your under-wear drawer. Their eyes get glazed over and all dreamy-like. They waghter things about "the good ol' days in college."

The college they attended, the school that they met at, the school where they fell in love, the ivy-covered walls, and hallowed halls, pop up like a stale Pop-Tart when ever they talk to you.

Parents always love telling their kids the stories of those places, but the angles of the stories are different. Fathers sound something like "If Salamanca de River Bible College was good enough for your mother and I, it's good enough for you."

Mothers see different motives: "I don't want you to meet your future husband a some sinful big university where drug-smuggling Columbian evolutionists are the professors. Maybe if you attend our alma mater, your future husband will propose to you in the same Kentucky Fried Chicken Restaurant like your father did."

Since Bethany is my only option, I finally told my Dad that I needed to see this place. I mean how was I supposed to know that this place really existed.

All I know I'm going to Bethany despite poor PSAT scores (and that's not all that bad) or welding school.

P.S. Anybody who is willing take me to prom this year--my father could be persuaded into awarding 100 points extra credit for the exchange.

No kidding.
But that's another story.

I had a hard time writing this column, and I think I deserve a lot of money or some fruitful land or something. I started opening lines like: "The Cickety-clack brothers were not known for their good habits." and "This cat, this innocent looking cat, was at one time floating through my basement...flying, actually, smacking into walls and the ceiling and floor. Not on purpose, of course, but cats can’t fly very well..."

The column I came about this close (about 2.4 cm) to submitting began like this:

Wild-eyed, Carcass, the blue rabbit leaped through the bars and knocked over the lab assistant, soiling the white lab coat. Carcass ran through the open door, and as it slammed behind him he knew he had been trapped: a voice from behind chuckled.

Whirling around with the agility only a blue rabbit can posses, Carcass glared ar Dr. Soandso.

"So, doctor, we meet again."
"Yesssss...Only this time...you're on my turf," the doctor said, snapping on a pair of white rubber gloves.

But the story was pointless (we're back to the column again), not very interesting, and I don't like the phrase "Wild eyed".

Another column concerned a man who ordered some batteries from his Mechanical Grumbelizer dealer and ended up with some Bad Trees, which began to ransack the neighborhood...but it has a happy ending. Not good enough, I said.

So I rolled up my sleeves and dug way down into my brain, and I came up with this:

I looked at the display with disgust; the cheap plastic skin and unseeing eyes. The mannequin was modelling the latest fashions, standing in the clothes store, staring into space. Her face was a perfect copy of every other marionette in the store, designed to look beautiful, but I knew she was bad underneath her carefully sculpted hair. The make-up was painted on her face, her bright red lips grinning an idiot's smile.

But those eyes! What a repulsive mockery of human life...I wanted to poke them out.

I stared at the marionette for quite a while. I studied every carefully manicured detail: a fur wrapped around the shoulders, an expensive wrinkle-free evening dress, black high heels.

There were hundreds more on display in the store, all of them exactly alike; unfeeling, cold underneath the colorful surface.

I walked up to her and stared into those eyes with contempt. Very cleverly crafted; they looked almost real. She got upset when she realized I was staring at her. She put her nose in the air and walked off to check her appearance in the mirror...

Arsenio Day. The lives of countless numbers of people have been guided and nurtured by this man. He believes in the equality of all people, and the non-violent, humorous resistance to all racial separation... Countless times he has gone out of his way to mention a racial stereotype that isn't in vogue anymore, and in doing so erases destructive barriers... He can reach a cross-section of America never reached before, consisting of all races, all creeds, and both sexes. Undeniably, he is a successful man by most's standards, and he hasn't lost his personality and values inthe process of achievement...

We honor our chosen, our favorite citizens. The few, the proud, the nationally popular.

The “chosen” members of our society receive these awards out of popularity. If an Arsenio Day were named this month, I think a comparable number of people would celebrate it as, oh, say the highly celebrated Martin Luther King Day this year.

All the things I have said about Mr. Hall are true; he is an amazing man. Nor do I wish to badmouth Dr. King--I'm no masicist. I would, however, like to present the opposing view of a minority.

National holidays named after one person or a special interest group are done so by the popular consent of the majority. If Dr. King's popularity was enough for him to honored in such a way, why not Mr. Hall's, or Johnny Depp's, or Mary Lou Retton's, or even Herbert Hoover's?

The most frequent counter-argument I here is that Dr. King did something morally popular, not just popular. That's why he deserves a day.

Pardon me, but we could interpret that either of two ways: a criminal breach of the separation of Church and State, or totalitarianism. If you're religionestablishes your morals, or if you've developed them on your own, don't affect others with enforced recognition.

If the practice of naming a “day” after a person or group is unconditionally accepted, countless groups will eventually petition the government for their “day,” and all will eventually win using the argument that they are the repressed minority.

The government's policy to end the turmoil should be to abstain from giving people or groups “days”, and stick to the purely state-oriented holidays such as Veteran's Day and the Fourth of July.

I'm sorry, Arsenio, but I wouldn't want to be kicked out of public institutions to comemmorate your birthday.

Bethany has been tattooed on my butt since the day I was born.

Bethany Lutheran College that is. The grand design my parents have for me, since I was two years old, is to attend this school--their alma mater. The beginnings of a family tradition.

What brought on this sudden college nightmare you might ask. Like most juniors I recently got my PSAT scores back, and let's just say I wasn't impressed.

Neither were my parents. My brother even told me that Herbert Hoover wouldn't be impressed.

Not good.

How good could the PSAT scores be of a guy who sold vacuum cleaners?

When parents see less-than-promising scores that shatter their dreams of their child becoming a rocket scientist on a full-scholarship--you have to act fast.

Real fast. Lie. The bigger the better. It's your only chance to save them from reality.

Tell them:

“I saw Elvis on the way to school and he forced me to eat a banana and bacon sandwich fried in oleo--you're lucky I didn't have a stroke!”

“I'm just stupid. Leave me alone.”

“All the toxins in the atmosphere made my brain shrink to the size of a pea.”

“What did you expect, I am my parents' child?”

“I decided that these tests were trying to judge my intelligence against my will and I thought this test was morally wrong” (this one should work with hippie parents).

“I was drunk the day of the test” (my advice to those of you use this excuse: Buy another bottle of Boones Farm).

“I was deep in thought about starting my own religion, becoming my own prophet.”

“I plead the fifth--or is it the sixth?”

I used one about starting my own religion and my parents were not impressed. When they started to balk, I told them I was going to follow the footsteps of Danforth Quayle and become a lawyer and politician--his scores were not so hot. Telling your parents you're going to become a lawyer always shuts them up.

No kidding. It's the best.

I've noticed, too, that parents during a child's junior and senior year, get this weird condition. They begin to leave college pamphlets on your bed, taped to the TV screen, or even tucked in your underwear drawer. Their eyes get glazed over and all dreamy-like. They wag their tongues about “the good ol' days” in college.

The college they attended, the school they met at, the school where they fell in love, the ivy-covered walls, and hal-lowed halls, pop up like a stale Pop-Tart when ever they talk to you.

Parents always love telling their kids the stories of those places, but the angles of the stories are different. Fathers sound something like “If Salamanca River Bible College was good enough for your mother and I, it's good enough for you.”

Mothers see different motives: “I don't want you to meet your future husband a some sinful big university where drug-smuggling Columbian evolutionists are the professors. Maybe if you attend our alma mater, your future husband will propose to you in the same Kentucky Fried Chicken Restaurant like your father did.”

Since Bethany is my only option, I finally told my Dad that I needed to see this place. I mean how was I supposed to know that this place really existed.

All I know I'm going to Bethany despite poor PSAT scores (and that's not all that bad) or welding school.

P.S. Anybody who is willing take me to prom this year--my father could be persuaded into awarding 100 points extra credit for the exchange.

No Kidding.

But that's another story.

I had a hard time writing this column, and I think I deserve a lot of money or some fruitful land or something. I started opening lines like: “The Clickety-clack brothers were not known for their good habits.” and “This cat, this innocent looking cat, was at one time floating through my basement... flying, actually, smacking into walls and the ceiling and floor. Not on purpose, of course, but cats can't fly very well...”

The column I came about this close (about 2.4 cm) to submitting began like this:

Wild-eyed, Carcass, the blue rabbit leaped through the bars and knocked over the lab assistant, soiling the white lab coat. Carcass ran through the open door, and as it slammed behind him he knew he had been trapped: a voice from behind chuckled.

Whirling around with the agility only a blue rabbit can posses, Carcass glared ar Dr. Soandso.

“So, doctor, we meet again.”

“Yesssss... Only this time... you're on my turf,” the doctor said, snapping on a pair of white rubber gloves.

But the story was pointless (we're back to the column again), not very interesting, and I don't like the phrase “Wild eyed”.

Another column concerned a man who ordered some batteries from his Mechanical Grumbelizer dealer and ended up with some Bad Trees, which began to ransack the neighborhood...but it has a happy ending. Not good enough, I said.

So I rolled up my sleeves and dug way down into my brain, and I came up with this:

I looked at the display with disgust; the cheap plastic skin and unseeing eyes. The marionette was modelling the latest fashions, standing in the clothes store, staring into space. Her face was a perfect copy of every other marionette in the store, designed to look beautiful, but I knew she was badl underneath her carefully sculpted hair. The make-up was painted on her face, her bright red lips grinning an idiot's smile.

But those eyes! What a repulsive mockery of human life... I wanted to poke them out.

I stared at the marionette for quite a while. I studied every carefully manicured detail: a fur wrapped around the shoulders, an expensive wrinkle-free evening dress, black high heels.

There were hundreds more on display in the store, all of them exactly alike; unfeeling, cold underneath the colorful surface.

I walked up to her and stared into those eyes with contempt. Very cleverly crafted; they looked almost real. She got upset when she realized I was staring at her. She put her nose in the air and walked off to check her appearance in the mirror...

Van Halen asks every day on the radio “Is this love that I’m feeling / Is this the love that I’m looking for?” Seems even rock and roll poets can’t figure it out any better than we can.

For ages, people have searched for the answer to that question.

They turn to friends, books, parents, and their God, doubting whether they themselves have the authority to answer their own problems. It’s understandable, however, because the subject of love is so broad and so individualistic that what’s “right” for each person can be extremely confusing. First of all, the one word “love” encompasses many different forms.

There’s “Eros love,” which is simply a physical attraction to someone; “Agape love,” a divine, altruistic love that never demands any thing in return; “Pragma love,” which is a more practical love, making choices about common goals, lifestyles, and personalities;

“Platonic love,” the perfect union between the spirits of two people, having nothing to do with sexual attraction; and “Companionate love,” when two people share together, want to be together, and are unfulfilled when they are apart.

This love includes trust, respect, amusement, tolerance, and intimacy. It is friendship as well as love. Most couples try to reach an ideal combination of these different types of love.

But when you consider “love” as a complete whole, what exactly is it, anyway? According to psychologist Dianna Booher, author of Love: First Aid for the Heartaches and Trials of Young Love: “Love is an intellectual commitment, a duty, a responsibility. Love is a feeling, a sentiment. Love is an emotionally charged, spine-tingling exhilaration when you’re thinking of or are around that special person.

“Love is selfish. It’s being attracted to someone who gives you immense pleasure, security, and self-worth, and who makes you become your best friend. Love is selfless. It is giv-”

Students either kiss and tell or tell on kissers. Public Displays of Affection (PDA’s) are a common sight in BHS—especially around St. Valentine’s Day or as Prom looms closer.

PDA’s have a wide variety of definitions from holding hand, and putting your arms around each other, to less-than-casual caressing.

What is sociably acceptable in school?

According to Assistant Principal Lloyd Styrowill, most of the complaints are from female students. They say things like, “can’t you do something about them [students practicing the art of PDA]?” or “Will you break those two up?”

Junior Kari Strybicky said, PDA’s are “gross and disgusting to watch, and should be banned from the school.”

Some students accept PDA’s as a reasonable “bill of fare” in the school corridors. Others are simply too embarrassed to comment on PDA-ing.

Those students who are on the receiving end of amorous PDA are not happy that they aren’t always allowed to “slobber” on each other in the hall, according to Styroll.

Reading teacher Ed Saxton thinks that “swapping spit” should be saved for after school in students own privacy.

However, junior Andy Berger said, “it’s none of other peoples’ business.”

Long time girlfriend Rhonda Schieper, sophomore, agrees and says, “if you don’t like it, don’t look.”

According to the people that were interviewed, the majority of them agreed that holding hands and a quick peck on the cheek, or even the lips is tolerable. But as for hickie-creating em- suction and heat-producing embraces (i.e. like they show on afternoon soaps), those types of PDA’s are considered bad taste.

Counselor Gloria Rose said, “I think we are a society that needs displays of affection, and that’s okay, but one wonders: ‘who is it for?’ Is it for themselves because they need that all the time, or is it to show other people that they have a boyfriend/girlfriend?”

Others are much more tolerant. “As long as you’re not striping each other naked,” said junior Kris Spike, “I don’t see anything wrong with it.”

Here it comes again. That mystical, magical time we call Prom. Ah, yes, love is in the air and we, like most people, are inhaling as if we just finished a five-minute mile.

But along with this time of love, comes tears and hardships to those who can’t find a date.

Three months and counting. The only thing worse than not going, of course, is going with someone when the relationship has fizzled and that “special someone” now wears on you like yesterday’s tuna-on-a-stick. The only reason you’re going is because the tux is rented, the dress purchased. That, and what would everyone think?

Yeah, a lot of people go with a group of friends, but truly, who wants to go that way? You know you will eventually have to watch as Barbie and Biff float towards the edge of the dance floor while Barbie gives you that “I-knew-you-wouldn’t-get-a-real-date” look. Barbie began her tanning sessions in November.

There is what the Native Americans used to call “running the gauntlet”. The Indians, holding knives, branding irons, and lances, would stand in two lines while a captive would run between. If he survived this, he was allowed to live.

The similarity between Grand March and the gauntlet is obvious. Parents, siblings, and people who merely like to gawk at a line of trussed and dressed students, the same students who normally look like refugees from a Salvation Army clearance sale, stand on the sidelines waiting for the one unfortunate teen with the proverbially inexperienced girl takes a turn in her new high heels. Like those people who love auto races and roller derby, these by-standers catch their breath waiting for the nine-couple pile up after the falls.

Plus, this year Prom is being celebrated in St. Cloud, on the banks of the beautiful Mississippi. Being around so much muddy water in rented clothing or clothes that cost a small fortune should make some people nervous.

And what of those of us who don’t feel comfortable dancing? How many times can we say, “No, this is just extremely tasty punch—I’ll catch you when the next polka come around?”

To dance is to suffer. Especially if you’re dancing with Barbie/Biff.

Some adults have spread stories that it is perfectly acceptable to not go to Prom. Ha! (Barbie hasn’t missed a prom since th grade). The thought of missing the Prom could send a senior into cold sweats with complications leading to hypothermia.

Blind dates are not advised for Prom--but if you’re really set on attending, take the gamble. However, draw the line when an offer such as “You can go with my cousin, but you’ll have to pay his way out of jail,” is tossed at you.

The thought of having somethingsaromantic as the Prom destroyed has caused many an ulcer. Zits or unwanted cellulite come to mind as culprits.

Honestly, how many people have begun their diets? Admit it, you have started starving yourself months ago—except for an occasional McBinge or two, or three... (you get the point.) Many counselors have most likely come to the conclusion that most eating disorders are caused, directly or not, by the yearning desire to attend the Prom (don’t quote us on this one).

After all this hoopla, what happens? Just a lovely memory?

Nope.

You always have class reunions to look forward to.

To those of you (us) who will be spending Valentines Day by themselves, a little list of suggestions is in order.

10. Shave all the lint off your sweaters.

9. Do a mental replay of your life, scene by scene.

8. Count all of the “z’s” in all the phone books in your house.

7. Buy a combination lock, hide the combo, then try to figure it out on your own.

6. Call every pizza place within a 20 mile radius and send 2 dozen pizzas to your neighbor. Then watch them arrive (!!!).

5. Listen to the records your parents put away in the attic/basement. You know, the ones where the lead singer’s pants are wider than his hips.

4. Have a party with all your friends who don’t have someone to spend Valentines Day with, either. That way you can all cry or make-believe together, and you can still tell your OTHER friends that you were out with “someone.”

3. Catch up on the years of Mr. Rogers that you missed.

2. Taking random listings from the phone book, call 100 or so houses and see who else is miserable.

1. Have a dozen roses sent to your house, and then dismantle them.

(Just in case, after all these suggestions, you still don’t have anything to occupy your time you can always call Grandma. But you’ll probably get her machine, because she’ll be out with Grandpa partying like they were still 16...sigh.)

Students either kiss and tell or tell on kissers. Public Displays of Affection (PDA's) are a common sight in BHS--especially around St. Valentine's Day or as Prom looms closer. PDA's have a wide variety of definitions from holding hand, and putting your arms around each other, to less-than-casual caressing.

What is sociably acceptable in school? According to Assistant Principal Lloyd Styrowll, most of the complaints are from female students. They say things like, “can’t you do something about them [students practicing the art of PDA]?” or “Will you break those two up?” Junior Kari Strybicky said, PDA’s are “gross and disgusting to watch, and should be banned from the school!” Some students accept PDA’s as a reasonable “bill of fare” in the school corridors. Others are simply to embarrassed to comment on PDA-ing. Those students who are on the receiving end of an amorous PDA are not happy that they aren’t always allowed to “slobber” on each other in the hall, according to Styroll. Reading teacher Ed Saxton thinks that “swapping spit” should be saved for after school in students own privacy. However, junior Andy Berger said, “it’s none of other peoples’ business.” Long time girlfriend Rhonda Schieper, sophomore, agrees and says, “if you don’t like it, don’t look.” According to the people that were interviewed, the majority of them agreed that holding hands and a quick peck on the cheek, or even the lips is tolerable. But as for hickie-creating suction and heat-producing embraces (i.e. like they show on afternoon soaps), those types of PDA’s are considered bad taste. Counselor Gloria Rose said, “I think we are a society that needs displays of affection, and that’s okay, but one wonders: ‘who is it for?’ Is it for themselves because they need that all the time, or is it to show other people that they have a boyfriend/girlfriend?” Others are much more tolerant. “As long as you’re not striping each other naked,” said junior Kris Spike, “I don’t see anything wrong with it.”

Here it comes again. That mystical, magical time we call Prom. Ah, yes, love is in the air and we, like most people, are inhaling as if we just finished a five-minute mile. But along with this time of love, comes tears and hardships to those who can’t find a date. Three months and counting. The only thing worse than not going, of course, is going with someone you can’t stand. It is going with someone when the relationship has fizzled and that “special someone” now wears on you like yesterday’s tuna-on-a-stick. The only reason you’re going is because the tux is rented, the dress purchased. That, and what would everyone think? Yeah, a lot of people go with a group of friends, but truly, who wants to go that way? You know you will eventually have to watch as Barbie and Biff float towards the edge of the dance floor while Barbie gives you that “I-knew-you-wouldn’t-get-a-real-date” look. Barbie began her tanning sessions in November.

There is what the Native Americans used to call “running the gauntlet”. The Indians, holding knives, branding irons, and lances, would stand in two lines while a captive would run between. If he survived this, he was allowed to live. The similarity between Grand March and the gauntlet is obvious. Parents, siblings, and people who merely like to gawk at a line of trussed and dressed students, the same students who normally look like refugees from a Salvation Army clearance sale, stand on the sidelines waiting for the one unfortunate victim when proverbially inexperienced girl takes a turn in her new high heels. Like those people who love auto races and roller derby, these bystanders catch their breath waiting for the nine-couple pile up after the falls. Plus, this year Prom is being celebrated in St. Cloud, on the banks of the beautiful Mississippi. Being around so much muddy water in rented clothing or clothes that cost a small fortune should make some people nervous. And what of those of us who don’t feel comfortable dancing? How many times can we say, “No, this is just extremely tasty punch--I’ll catch you when the next polka come around?” To dance is to suffer. Especially if you’re dancing with Barbie/Biff.

Some adults have spread stories that it is perfectly acceptable to not go to Prom. Ha! (Barbie hasn’t missed a prom since th grade.) The thought of missing the Prom could send a senior into cold sweats with complications leading to hypothermia. Blind dates are not advised for Prom--but if you’re really set on attending, take the gamble. However, draw the line when an offer such as “You can go with my cousin, but you’ll have to pay his way out of jail,” is tossed at you. The thought of having something as romantic as the Prom destroyed has caused many an ulcer. Zits or unwanted cellulite come to mind as culprits. Honestly, how many people have begun their diets? Admit it, you have started starving yourself months ago--except for an occasional McBinge or two, or three... (you get the point.) Many counselors have most likely come to the conclusion that most eating disorders are caused, directly or not, by the yearning desire to attend the Prom (don’t quote us on this one). After all this hoopla, what happens? Just a lovely memory? Nope. You always have class reunions to look forward to.

Van Halen asks every day on the radio “Is this love that I’m feeling / Is this the love that I’m looking for?” Seems even rock and roll poets can’t figure it out any better than we can. For ages, people have searched for the answer to that question. They turn to friends, books, parents, and their God, doubting whether they themselves have the authority to answer their own problems. It’s understandable, however, because the subject of love is so broad and so individualistic that what’s “right” for each person can be extremely confusing. First of all, the one word “love” encompasses many different forms. There’s “Eros love,” which is simply a physical attraction to someone; “Agape love,” a divine, altruistic love that never demands any thing in return; “Pragma love,” which is a more practical love, making choices about common goals, lifestyles, and personalities; “Platonic love,” the perfect union between the spirits of two people, having nothing to do with sexual attraction; and “Companionate love,” when two people share together, want to be together, and are unfulfilled when they are apart. This love includes trust, respect, amusement, tolerance, and intimacy. It is friendship as well as love. Most couples try to reach an ideal combination of these different types of love. But when you consider “love” as a complete whole, what exactly is it, anyway? According to psychologist Dianna Booher, author of Love: First Aid for the Heartaches and Trials of Young Love: “Love is an intellectual commitment, a duty, a responsibility. Love is a feeling, a sentiment, an emotionally charged, spine-tingling exhilaration when you’re thinking of or are around that special person. “Love is selfish. It’s being attracted to someone who gives you immense pleasure, security, and self-worth, and who makes you become your best friend. Love is selfless. It is giv-

Editorial Editor

To those of you (us) who will be spending Valentines Day by themselves, a little list of suggestions is in order.

10. Shave off all the lint off your sweat-ers.

9. Do a mental replay of your life, scene by scene.

8. Count all of the “z’s” in all the phone books in your house.

7. Buy a combination lock, hide the combo, then try to figure it out on your own.

6. Call every pizza place within a 20 mile radius and send 2 dozen pizzas to your neighbor. Then watch them arrive (!!!).

5. Listen to the records your parents put away in the attic/basement. You know, the ones where the lead singer’s pants are wider than his hips.

4. Have a party with all your friends who don’t have someone to spend Valentines Day with, either. That way you can all cry or make-believe together, and you can still tell your OTHER friends that you were out with “someone.”

3. Catch up on the years of Mr. Rogers that you missed.

2. Taking random listings from the phone book, call 100 or so houses and see who else is miserable.

1. Have a dozen roses sent to your house, and then dismantle them. (Just in case, after all these suggestions, you still don’t have anything to occupy your time you can always call Grandma. But you’ll probably get her machine, because she’ll be out with Grandpa partying like they were still 16...sigh.)

They are not typical students--but then the class they share is not a typical class either. Some have two jobs. Two of them have a child and another student, as a father, is expecting. One senior, because of a growing business raising cattle, has his own accountant. However, all 18 of these students are making time for high school. Jean Pehl’s second hour Basic English class, as it is called, goes beyond the mission of teaching English. It’s more like dealing with life and the problems students have coping with more than popularity, cheerleading, or Guess jeans. Admittedly, these students’ first priority is not school. Basic English class is “a class for people who can’t handle the homework of other English classes,” said senior Chad Miller. Other students outside the class may disagree. “It’s a dead-end class for dead-end kids,” one BHS junior said. “Probably why people consider it a dead-end class is because its small and called ‘Basic English’. They don’t know what’s going on in class--and at home,” said Miller. Though Basic English students may be considered underachievers Miller voices the class problem, “I’m trying. I just don’t have the time.” This may be a abused excuse but it’s often the truth in this class. Long hours and multiple jobs aren’t uncommon. Brian Cochran, senior, works “45-50 hours a week between Pizza Hut and the Retirement Center.” Senior David Addickes works 40+ hours a week at his job, leaving it at 7:00 am so he can get to school. Senior Geoff Maass may not work on a schedule but because his job is raising cattle he “works all the time.” Senior Dena Peavey doesn’t even have time to go to work, “A baby is a full time job.” There are three main reasons these students work so much. One is for post high school training like Cochran who is going to school to be a paramedic pilot. The another reason is to pay bills they have now such as car payments or the expenses of raising a child. Maass uses some of his money to pay his accountant. “I had to pay him $350 last quarter to figure my taxes.” A third reason is that most of their parents give them no money to spend. Students in Basic English don’t consider themselves lower level students. When asked to compare themselves with Advanced Placement students responses varied. “They’re overachievers who are trying to impress their parents and teachers,” said Miller. “Half of them don’t even have jobs. Their folks give them all their money,” said Addickes. “I have more responsibilities than they do-- dishes, homework, making dinner and taking care of my baby,” senior Melissa Bergin. And, They use their gas money to buy beer,” said Maass. Some students in Pehls’ class find it impossible to abide by some of BHS’ policies. Maass, for example, had to stay home with a birthing cow. When he was ready to go to school his parents were already gone and so he didn’t have a note. When he arrived at school he was asked for a note. Maass, a 19 year old, was given detention for taking care of his business. Maybe the students in B.E. should be looked at more individually by BHS’ school officials. Pehls’ class is currently looking into changing their situation. They brought the issues of a larger student parking lot and 18 year olds having to have notes from their parents to Darrel Miller, BHS superintendent. These students know as 18 year olds they are voting members of the school district and they will be listened to. “They have the courage and energy to make changes for themselves if they can just work in the class time.” said Pehl. For students who don’t have the time to go to school, taking the GED test is an option. But some find it not so easy. Britten Thomsen is one example. “I can’t take the GED exam. I can’t pass the American History section because I was raised in Canada.” Others don’t feel that employers consider the GED as good as a high school diploma. Besides staying in school has its advantages. “I get to live at home for free,” said senior Jeremy Goodin. Their future plans range from cosmetology, telecommunications, race car driving, to just making it through high school. Like life, there are not any dead-ends in this class.

No Basic English classes will be offered for next year’s English credit. Instead all students who do not pass the minimum competency tests will be main-streamed into regular classes. During curriculum review that the English department just completed this year, the department deleted all basic classes arguing that remedial students would receive the benefits of peer motivation and support and avoid being labeled underachievers. Any student requiring additional help or needing remedial service would be identified by teachers and a file created, noting the deficiencies and strengths of the student. The student file then would be passed to the students’ next English teacher(s) so that plans could be made to modify work to best meet the student’s needs. “The classes have not been successful because the students do not accomplish what they should. We are not doing it to hurt the people with skill problems or who are poor students--it’s to accommodate them,” said English teacher Joel Squadroni. The students who would take basic classes this year have been encouraged to take others. “I hope the student could take any of the English classes. My assumption is that with the help of a teacher they could do well and adjust themselves. We [the counselors] are real careful not to recommend classes to students,” said counselor Gloria Rose. “The students do a lot of their own homework, check with other students, and come in with ideas of their own. We just encourage them to get a little of everything, writing, literature, speech, etc.--to get a broader perspective in English.” The decision when a student will need remedial support and modified requirements in English will be determined during ninth grade English classes with the help of teacher recommendations and Assurance of Mastery testing.

Many decisions concerning this year's prom, May 19, are starting to be made. The junior class officers, along with input from the junior class as a whole, has made some primarily decisions.

The junior class has selected the St. Cloud State Convention Center as the site for prom. Junior class President Natasha Hance and Secretary Michelle Theis visited the facilities and reported that what they found was excellent. This marks the third year prom has been held away from school.

The junior class has elected to have DJ, instead of a band for prom.

The senior class considered having a DJ last year because of the poor receptions of the bands in previous years, and the great number of seniors who failed to turn in their in class dues last year. Last year's seniors and the senior class itself protested and procured more money with which to hire a band.

The junior class officers, however, have experienced no problems with the decision. They have chosen a DJ over a band for a number of reasons. The variety of songs ranks as one of the biggest reasons for the selection of a DJ.

“We decided on a DJ because we could request music of our choice,” said junior class Vice-President Mary Kate Hannon.

Money also played a role in this selection. Even though more students paid their dues than last year, some have not. Also, the junior class wants money left for any emergencies next year.

“We picked a DJ in place of a band because we knew that we could get a DJ that would play the kind of music people would like to listen to for the same amount of money as a mediocre band,” said junior class Treasurer Jennifer Riebeling.

There have been two open meetings. The latest to set up committees, to individually determine the theme and colors, the music, and the decorations and Grand March.

The Bison Wrestlers were knocked out of the number one ranking in Minnesota. Coach Gerry Bakke, however, doesn't think it's a very big deal. “There is only one time that it matters if you are number one and that's at the end of the year,” said Bakke.

A few wrestlers agree with Bakke, saying that being in that position wasn't as glorious as it seemed. “Everyone is shooting for you when you are ranked number one,” said junior Jason Scherber. “The rankings will only mean something after we win state,” said junior Dan Miller. “It puts too much pressure on us.” “I am happier out of the number one ranking because you can get over-confident otherwise,” said Bakke.

Although the team is glad they aren't #1, the fans might have a different approach. “The rankings didn't mean anything but they are interesting to see,” said Scherber. “The rankings are fun for the fans but there are only five teams that have a chance to win the state if everything goes right for them,” said Bakke.

The rankings aren't going to the team head because they know they have a long way to go yet. It's not easy for the small schools like Buffalo to get ranked. “The ranking really don't mean a team is good,” said Scherber. “The cross-country wasn't even ranked this year and they went to state,” said Miller.

Paynesville acquired the number one ranking after beating Buffalo. But Bakke isn't blaming the team for anything. “We probably would have beaten Paynesville if we would have had Scherber wrestling,” he said. “But they out-wrestled us that day and that's what I look for. They did what needed to be done.

The wrestlers are looking forward to going to state and possibly regaining that number one ranking. Says Bakke, “The team that will win the state this year will just have to do what is needed to get the job done because this year, there is more than just two teams that have a chance to win unlike last year.”

Time equals talent. These are the key words to this years ski team.

“Our team has a lot of young talent. In a few years we should have a good team,” said senior ski captain Craig Kjorlien.

“The break away gates are a must. We use them every practice. If we didn't have them we wouldn't be able to run as many courses as we do,” said Kjorlien. The ski team practices twice a week using the break away gates, and once a week they have meets with other teams.

During practice the teams work in their form, turns, and speed in their courses. “It depends a lot on the person skiing the course, and what type of skis they prefer,” said Senior Roxanne Luick. The team has many different courses and they rarely ski the same course twice. The teams considers Edina and Eden Prarie to be it's toughest competitors in this years meets, because of there experience and talents.

Members of the team look for sharp edges on there skis for faster speed and quicker turns. They usually tighten there ski bindings more than the average recreational skier. They also look for proper fitting boots. “It’s really important to have proper fitting boots, without them you can't preform as good,” said Kjorlien.

“The team is really supportive of one another, and the other people you meet are really nice. It's a friendly competition,” said Luick. The snow conditions considered ideal for racing are, hard packed snow that isn't icy, and a snow cover that is good for quick tight turns. As far as skiing talent goes, it depends a lot on the individual, and if they have done any other sports related to skiing such as: water skiing and Ice skating.

When most people think of sports, they think of the athletic type (football, baseball, basketball, etc.). But sports don't have to be athletic to be fun. Academic sports have hit the Twin Cities metropolitan area by storm and are working their way out here.

When I say academic sports, I mean knowledge enrichment, either in general trivia or about common school subjects like math, social studies, and English. One of these type of competitions is the St. Cloud State University Math Contest. Schools send student representatives who are good in math to take a forty question math exam.

Each grade level takes a different quiz and the top 5 & 10 percent of all the participants for that grade get certificates. The top three finishers (or more in case of a tie) per grade get engraved plaques of participation with their name and score.

Another good competition dealing with general trivia is Knowledge Building. Several schools participate in meet. Each school sends one to three teams. Each team takes a Scantron test. Then there are several rounds where three of the teams battle in a buzz-in trivia contest. The team with the most total points, counting the Scantron test, at the end of all the rounds wins.

Academic sports are challenging just like their athletic “cousins”. You get the sense that you are working as hard as you would be driving for a layout or giving an opponent a full body check. As in athletic sports, you feel that you must do your best and at least try to win. The nice thing about it, though, is that you don't break into a sweat unless it's really hot in the room.

Speech team and Youth in Government are a couple of others that top Buffalo's list. The list naming all the competitions is fairly long and complex but compared to other area schools, it is small. Many of the schools in the Greater Twin Cities Metro area are participating in these competitions. Delano just joined the Twin Cities Math League at the beginning of this school year. These type of competitions are common in metropolitan area schools. Before the end of the 21st century, Buffalo will be one of the Twin Cities area schools.

Many kids do not look at their school work and say “This is fun.” Instead, they say things like “Do I have to do this?” or “This is boring!” or even “I'm not going to do this and you can't make me.” If more of these academic competitions were available for the common student, more students would look forward to doing there home-work. Students would try harder just so that they would learn information they can use in the sport they are involved with.

Unfortunately for the student body, Buffalo Senior High is just beginning to tap into the academic sports scene that has hit the Metro region by storm. Unless the students here start urging the school district and the school itself, we will be like cavemen in a modern metropolis soon into the future. We are a modern-day school with modern-day needs and we should look into the modern-day approach toward the academic sports world.

To say that the snowmobile “craze” ended in the 1970’s would be a fallacy, snowmobiling is more popular now than ever at the BHS.

Junior Rick Schendel has been riding snowmobiles for nine years. His first sled was a 250 Polaris, now his pride and joy is a 1987 Polaris Indy 400.

Although most student snowmobilers are pleased with their machines, they can't help but be disappointed with the less than average snowfall this year.

To operate a snowmobile you need a minimum of constant two inches of snow. To ride on any less would damage the slides on the track, because of excessive friction.

The less than average snowfall didn't stop Buffalo Snowdrifters Club and the Buffalo Jaycees from putting on the annual Radar Run on Buffalo Lake. Most radar runs including this one, are a quarter of a mile ice tracks that snowmobilers race down and get clocked at the end of the track.

Junior Sam Rassat raced his 1984 Ski Doo Safari 477 three times. Each time Rassat received 64 miles per hour on the gun. He was consistent even though it was his first time at a radar run. Rassat's speed of 64mph is fairly good for a snowmobile with no studs.

Studs are one quarter to one inch long metal tips that can be put in all snowmobile tracks. The studs add traction and are a great asset for ice drag racing. “Studs help your takeoff and keep your sled in control,” said Schendel. Schendal has 48 studs in his track. An average amount of studs in tracks are 48 or 96.

Schendel's best speed at the radar run was 86 mph. The best speed was from a modified Polaris Indy 650. That sled was gunned at 120 mph. Stock Indy 650's ran about 95 - 104 mph.

Snowmobiles have been around since 1964 and 26 years later they're still riding strong at BHS.

Although most student snowmobilers are pleased with their machines, they can't help but be disappointed with the less than average snowfall this year.

To operate a snowmobile you need a minimum of constant two inches of snow. To ride on any less would damage the slides on the track, because of excessive friction.

The less than average snowfall didn't stop Buffalo Snowdrifters Club and the Buffalo Jaycees from putting on the annual Radar Run on Buffalo Lake. Most radar runs including this one, are a quarter of a mile ice tracks that snowmobilers race down and get clocked at the end of the track.

Junior Sam Rassat raced his 1984 Ski Doo Safari 477 three times. Each time Rassat received 64 miles per hour on the gun. He was consistent even though it was his first time at a radar run. Rassat's speed of 64mph is fairly good for a snowmobile with no studs.

Studs are one quarter to one inch long metal tips that can be put in all snowmobile tracks. The studs add traction and are a great asset for ice drag racing. “Studs help your takeoff and keep your sled in control,” said Schendel. Schendal has 48 studs in his track. An average amount of studs in tracks are 48 or 96.

Schendel's best speed at the radar run was 86 mph. The best speed was from a modified Polaris Indy 650. That sled was gunned at 120 mph. Stock Indy 650's ran about 95 - 104 mph.

Snowmobiles have been around since 1964 and 26 years later they're still riding strong at BHS.

When people think of ice fishing they think of parties, but to some ice fishing is a real sport.

“I get out of the house and it's a lot better than doing home-work,” said junior Brooks Bjorklund. Most people seem to agree, when ice fishing, that it is fun, but to handle the cold is another story.

Junior Mark Foede and his brother, senior Troy Foede drive from Montrose to fish on Pulaski Lake. “Buffalo Lake is too crowded,” said Mark.

The lack of snow and mild temperature have made skiers frustrated and snowmobilers angry. The outcome of that has been an above average number of fisherman on all lakes.

“I don't catch many, but the ones I do are usually big,” said junior Mark Leinonen. Leinonen fishes Pulaski Lake for walleye. He manly uses fathead and sucker minnows

Bjorklund and junior Troy Nelson share fish a house. This system works well because they can fish either Beebe Lake or Buffalo Lake.

Buffalo Lake has produced small walleye and below normal panfish. Beebe Lake is smaller and out of the way. Due to Beebe Lake's location, parties are frequent and disrupt the anglers. People also use the lake for a driving test course, for instance the police can take lakes for people doing donuts. Also the affect of alcohol has stirred some thought. “Some people just come out to catch a BOTTLE BUZZ but the true angler fishes for the sport and not to get a buzz off alcohol,” said Leinonen.

“cousins”. You get the sense that you are working as hard as you would be driving for a layup or giving an opponent a full body check. As in athletic sports, you feel that you must do your best and at least try to win. The nice thing about it, though, is that you don't break into a sweat unless it's really hot in the room.

Speech team and Youth in Government are a couple of others that top Buffalo's list. The list naming all the competitions is fairly long and complex but compared to other area schools, it is small. Many of the schools in the Greater Twin Cities Metro area are participating in these competitions. Delano just joined the Twin Cities Math League at the beginning of this school year. These type of competitions are common in metropolitan area schools. Before the end of the 21st century, Buffalo will be one of the Twin Cities area schools.

Many kids do not look at their school work and say “This is fun.” Instead, they say things like “Do I have to do this?” or “This is boring!” or even “I'm not going to do this and you can't make me.” If more of these academic competitions were available for the common student, more students would look forward to doing there home-work. Students would try harder just so that they would learn information they can use in the sport they are involved with.

Unfortunately for the student body, Buffalo Senior High is just beginning to tap into the academic sports scene that has hit the Metro region by storm. Unless the students here start urging the school district and the school itself, we will be like cavemen in a modern metropolis soon into the future. We are a modern-day school with modern-day needs and we should look into the modern-day approach toward the academic sports world.

To say that the snowmobile “craze” ended in the 1970’s would be a fallacy, snowmobiling is more popular now than ever at the BHS.

Junior Rick Schendel has been riding snowmobiles for nine years. His first sled was a 250 Polaris, now his pride and joy is a 1987 Polaris Indy 400.

Although most student snowmobilers are pleased with their machines, they can’t help but be disappointed with the less than average snowfall this year.

To operate a snowmobile you need a minimum of constant twoinches of snow. To ride on any less would damage the slides on the track, because of excessive friction.

The less than average snowfall didn’t stop Buffalo Snowdrifters Club and the Buffalo Jaycees from putting on the annual Radar Run on Buffalo Lake. Most radar runs including this one, are a quarter of a mile ice tracks that snowmobilers race down and get clocked at the end of the track.

Junior Sam Rassat raced his 1984 Ski Doo Safari 477 three times. Each time Rassat received 64 miles per hour on the gun. He was consistent even though it was his first time at a radar run. Rassat’s speed of 64mph is fairly good for a snowmobile with no studs.

Studs are one quarter to one inch long metal tips that can be put in all snowmobile tracks. The studs add traction and are a great asset for ice drag racing. “Studs help your takeoff and keep your sled in control,” said Schendel. Schendal has 48 studs in his track. An average amount of studs in tracks are 48 or 96.

Schendel’s best speed at the radar run was 86 mph. The best speed was from a modified Polaris Indy 650. That sled was gunned at 120 mph. Stock Indy 650’s ran about 95 - 104 mph.

Snowmobiles have been around since 1964 and 26 years later they’re still riding strong at BHS.

When people think of ice fishing they think of parties, but to some ice fishing is a real sport.

“I get out of the house and it’s a lot better than doing home-work,” said junior Brooks Bjorklund. Most people seem to agree, when ice fishing, that it is fun, but to handle the cold is another story.

Junior Mark Foede and his brother, senior Troy Foede drive from Montrose to fish on Pulaski Lake. “Buffalo Lake is too crowded,” said Mark.

The lack of snow and mild temperature havemadeskiers frustrated and snowmobilers angry. The outcome of that has been an above average number of fisherman on all lakes.

“I don’t catch many, but the ones I do are usually big,” said junior Mark Leinonen. Leinonen considers Edina and Eden Prarie to be it’s toughest competitors in this years meets, because of there experience and talents.

Members of the team look for sharp edges on the skis for faster speed and quicker turns. They usually tighten there ski bindings more than the average recreational skier. They also look for proper fitting boots. “It’s really important to have proper fitting boots, without them you can’t preform as good,” said Kjorlien.

“The team is really supportive of one another, and the other people you meet are really nice. It’s a friendly competition,” said Luick. The snow conditions considered ideal for racing are, hard packed snow that isn’t icy, and a snow cover that is good for quick tight turns. As far as skiing talent goes, it depends a lot on the individual, and if they have done any other sports related to skiing such as: water skiing and ice skating.

fishes Pulaski Lake for walleye. He manly uses fathead and sucker minnows

Bjorklund and junior Troy Nelson share fish a house. This system works well because they can fish either Beebe Lake or Buffalo Lake.

Buffalo Lake has produced small walleye and below normal panfish. Beebe Lake is smaller and out of the way. Due to Beebe Lake’s location, parties are frequent and disrupt the anglers. People also use the lake for a driving test course, for instance the police scan the lakes for people doing donuts. Also the affect of alcohol has stirred some thought. “Some people just come out to catch a BOTTLE BUZZ but the true angler fishes for the sport and not to get a buzz off alcohol,” said Leinonen.

We sat in the center of the Buffalo crowd with crossed arms locked hand-in-hand. We sweat, waiting for the judges to finish and the awards to be presented.

One by one the judges repeated each other’s vague and obscure comments as the clock swept a quarter turn...

This year’s one act play took second place at regions, but could not be stopped from going to State.

“We’re all getting together and are going to see the State competition,” said junior Michele Moon.

Moon, along with the rest of the set crew, created, painted, and transported the set for this years one act, Medea.

The one act’s first performance was the conference festival that was hosted by Buffalo. Out of six All-Conference medals allotted to this festival, Medea’s cast took three.

The next performance, Sub-

Regions at Monticello, all three judges ranked Medea 1st.

Buffalo joined Monticello, Worthington, and Marshal at Marshal the next week for the Region 2AA competition. Marshall’s play, The Taming of the Shrew, took first followed by Medea, and Monticello’s play, The Crucible, came in third.

The cast includes seniors Kurt Bakken, Mellissa Barth, Amy Hance, Ken Waldvogel; juniors Shawn Hjelmeland, Lori Anne Johnson, Caroline Whittaker; and foreign exchange student Christina Ravn.

...Commentary...

The critiques finished and all became silent, the grips tighten on each others’ clammy palms. The hostess explains that the 1st runner up is to be on-call to take the winners place at State if something happens to the winners and then simply asked if a representative of Buffalo will come up and receive it.

No noise, no cheer, no sorrow...just emptiness.

No state, no party, no more; my last year, my best play, my fault; if those lights were just better, if the curtains were not tied off, if I hadn’t been sick last week; questions fly, blame is placed, and I rose in my black robe to accept the region 2AA 2nd place award.

I put on the happy face, shook the hostess’s hand, showed the award to our crowd, and before running off the stage I saw my friends with deep, emotionless faces that did not even recognize me; we had lost.

But my front frost persisted. Through congratulating Marshall, receiving condolences from Monticello, and getting on the bus, filled with teary eyed people, my smile and jokes still come forth, to most, as a lunatic.

I still blame myself, but I tell no one. I continue with a lie--that it is just--that their play may have been better.

But after the public performance the question pervaded: how could any show top that play, that lighting, that set, or that acting?

And I don’t know why, but today I have my smile back, for I’m going to State to watch our play perform in my mind.

I’m going to see Marshall’s play at State and congratulate them on a fine show while swearing vengeance on Medea’s grave.

Amy Hance, playing the part of Medea, is comforted by her nurse, played by Mellissa Barth (top).
Director Clark Swenson gives notes to the cast on the dress rehearsal before Conference (center).
"Anilation!" is Medea’s cry in front her pillered doorway (bottom left).
Kristan Krenzel touches up the paint on the set to prepare for the conference performance (bottom right).