The student news of St. Paul Academy and Summit School

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Class representatives elected for 2022-2023 school year
Class representatives elected for 2022-2023 school year
May 13, 2022
WE HAVE ARRIVED. Alex Moore and Ruth Mellin stand in front of the exhibit hall for the 2022 ISEF in Atlanta.
Mellin and Moore make sign language even smarter
May 11, 2022
USC President-elect Maryeva Gonzalez and a stand in for co-President Tenzin Bawa deliver vision (and humor) in the Huss assembly May 6.
Elected leader results announced
May 6, 2022
Senior students at North High School celebrate their scholarship.
North High School Scholarship that changed lives
May 1, 2022
On Apr. 11, President Joe Biden made an official ruling on ghost guns across the U.S. Biden stated that commercial manufacturers must incorporate licenses and serial numbers, run background checks, and reserialize formerly sold firearms.
Federal government cracks down on ghost guns, continues battle on gun control
April 30, 2022
Reedy uses the internet to further his understanding of various topics.
[2 SIDES 1 ISSUE] Is the internet disadvantageous for education?
May 15, 2022
Chen plays the piano to keep herself busy and still have fun.
[2 SIDES 1 ISSUE] Should students be busying themselves over the summer?
May 15, 2022
It’s okay to take a break from the news: how to stay informed while being mindful of mental health
It’s okay to take a break from the news: how to stay informed while being mindful of mental health
May 13, 2022
FOR SHOW OR FOR THE BETTER? SPA announced to set goals in order to establish a more diverse and inclusive community in terms of race, sexuality, religion and more.
Is the call for improving diversity performative or productive?
May 10, 2022
As the school recovers from COVID-19, its important to increase engagement in student government.
This student election cycle, strengthen student governments
April 29, 2022
PICK IT UP. Most students will effortlessly offer a “thank you, “ to lunch staff every day while still neglecting to keep the areas the lunch staff works in clean. Picking up trash requires little more effort than this simple expression of gratitude in the lunchroom, but in the case of trash, students are not confronted directly with the person who is responsible for cleaning up after them. If you really want to show gratitude, show your appreciation verbally but also through recognizing the effects of your actions.
[STAFF EDITORIAL]: One student’s trash is no one’s treasure
April 22, 2022
YES WE CAN. Student activism and voluneering will help close the achievement gap, but only if there are structures put in place at a legislative level by voting adults that create the conditions for success.
[STAFF EDITORIAL] Work to close the achievement gap
March 9, 2022
TRIPLE SELF-PORTRAIT. Art is an essential part of life. Take the time to support local arts and keep your community vibrant.
[STAFF EDITORIAL] Engage with your community: support local artists
February 26, 2022
Believing that Black lives matter means keeping the conversation in the forefront, taking positive action, and advocating for change.
[STAFF EDITORIAL] Advocate for black lives. It matters.
February 9, 2022
The information regarding sex and gender have been washed together and interchanged. This mix is harmful to everyone, including people who identify with traditional binary genders.
[STAFF EDITORIAL] School policy and practice on gender creates a strong model for the broader world
December 14, 2021
The fallacy of finding yourself
The fallacy of finding yourself
November 4, 2021
Minnesota Matters is a monthly column written by Colin Will about political issues that impact the state.
Eviction or aid? Congress must find the compromise.
June 2, 2021
Minnesota Matters is a monthly column written by Colin Will about political issues that impact the state.
Senators, don’t close parks
May 26, 2021
Thinking Out Loud is a monthly column by Opinions Editor Jenny Ries.
[COLUMN] Thinking Out Loud: Find your shoes
April 27, 2021
Thinking Out Loud is a monthly column by Opinions Editor Jenny Ries.
[COLUMN] Thinking Out Loud: Redefine what art means to you
March 8, 2021
[LETTER] Feel racial discomfort rather than pushing it away
[LETTER] Feel racial discomfort rather than pushing it away
March 5, 2021
LETTER TO THE COMMUNITY: Aaron Datta
LETTER TO THE COMMUNITY: Aaron Datta
November 26, 2017
Letter to the Editor: Reasons for Service Day truncation
March 2, 2016
Letter to the Editor: Sports coverage should include all teams
September 16, 2015
Girl’s teams find a lack of support from the student body
May 8, 2014
The week in sports
The week in sports
May 13, 2022
LEADING LACROSSE. MS Athletic Director Taylor Tvedt is the head coach of Spartan Lacrosse, the girls co-op team.
Teammates become coaches for Spartan Lacrosse
May 13, 2022
Ibid archive photo of Sarah Oppenheim playing during the Fall 2021 soccer season.
Guiney appointed Head Coach for girls Spartan Soccer
May 12, 2022
The week in sports
The week in sports
May 6, 2022
Sophomore Baasit Mahmood serves the ball to an opponent in a very close match.
Boys tennis battles cold and wet conditions, cancellations
May 1, 2022
SPARTANS ON TWO. With a narrow lead at the beginning of the second set, the team gathered for a short pep talk after Saint Agnes called a timeout. Positivity and confidence radiate off the team following excellent communication, player-to-player connection, and composure during the first few minutes of the set.
Girls varsity volleyball falls to Saint Agnes, concludes season
October 30, 2021
Wolfpack blocks Province academy from gaining ground in the 3rd quarter soon after they score a touchdown and field goal.
Wolfpack defeated in heated game against Providence Academy
October 25, 2021
Senior Naci Konar-Steenberg finished in 35th place. He said, It was a breakthrough race for the team: we had five people on varsity under twenty minutes (four boys and one girl), and six out of the seven people on boys varsity got a personal best time. Thats significant because the course we ran on, which was at Battle Creek, is generally considered to be rather difficult, but we had plenty of personal and season bests.
[PHOTO STORY] Varsity Cross Country crosses the finish line for the IMAC Conference Championship
October 18, 2021
SPA Senior Charlie Johnson under center before an important snap.
Wolfpack dominate Bloomington Kennedy, improve to 5-2 on season
October 17, 2021
Defender Aurelia Meza prepares to send a ball into the box, hoping to inspire an offensive attack towards the goal.
GVS falls to Minnehaha in section semi-finals
October 17, 2021
SWISH. Captain Naomi Straub shoots two free throws after being fouled by an opposing player.
Girls basketball gains traction, advances to second round of section playoffs
March 2, 2022
TEAM HUDDLE. Spartans huddled around the bench as they prepare for their first regular-season game against Simley on Nov. 30. The final score was 0-2.
[PHOTO STORY] Spartan hockey season at a glance
February 17, 2022
FOIL, SABER, EPEE. Sophomore Nora Shaughnessy competes in a saber bout, beating Blake in two out the three rounds she participated in. Saber is considered the most aggressive out of the three weapons used in fencing due to the increased amount of slashing involved, and the fact that the target area is anywhere above players’ waists.
Varsity Spartan fencing falls to Blake in hard-fought dual meet
February 14, 2022
ALWAYS BE BETTER THAN THE BOYS. Junior NIkola Barkwell exchanges her United jersey for a Spartan one this season.
Barkwell offers inspiration as a Spartan hockey goaltender
February 11, 2022
PROTECTIVE POSSESSION. Captain Lindsay Browne gets in her protective stance as she waits for the right opportunity to pass the ball to one of her teammates. Browne finds that the key to running a successful play is being patient when the team has possession and making sure to communicate.
Girls basketball falls to Blake, focuses on progress
February 2, 2022
The week in sports
The week in sports
May 13, 2022
LEADING LACROSSE. MS Athletic Director Taylor Tvedt is the head coach of Spartan Lacrosse, the girls co-op team.
Teammates become coaches for Spartan Lacrosse
May 13, 2022
The week in sports
The week in sports
May 6, 2022
Sophomore Baasit Mahmood serves the ball to an opponent in a very close match.
Boys tennis battles cold and wet conditions, cancellations
May 1, 2022
WATER BREAK, SWITCH SIDES. Freshman David Schumacher discusses the match with one of the Lions.
Spartans boys tennis finishes strong with 7-0 against the Lions
April 30, 2022
After years of working a corporate job, Philip Skulte left to start his own business in film.
Combining skills with passion: how Philip Skulte established Visual Captive
May 13, 2022
JUMPING INTO ACTION. Masumi Kouakou jumps into the air as the crowd watches in awe. “I feel like they think its different,” Kouakou said of how his peers at school react to his dancing.
Kouakou spreads his passion of dance as he explores his new comfort zone
May 11, 2022
Linnea Cooleys promposal to Will Sedo that was set up in Lower Schilling.
Will you prom(posal) this spring?
May 10, 2022
WORKING HARD. McKinnon used wood and duct tape to place the battery, motor, and motor controller onto the bike. He also placed switches on the motor controller to turn the motor off or on and the throttle on the handlebars, to simplify construction.
[SCHILLING SCOOP] Cooper McKinnon creates a new ride
May 2, 2022
SWEET TREATS. Senior Zelda explains why she revels in the simple delight of the muddy buddy gas station snack: “its like, kind of something you dont have all the time but you know its gonna be at a gas station. Its not something you would walk into a grocery store for,” said Zelda. The chocolate and peanut butter in the snack is a much-appreciated bonus.
What is your go-to gas station snack?
April 29, 2022
Its Scholastic Journalism Week: What does scholastic journalism mean to me?
QUIZ: [HOW WELL DO YOU KNOW]… the RubicOnline?
March 11, 2020
Members hop over the bench to get on the ice and play.
QUIZ: Have you been paying attention to the sports section?
January 16, 2020
Take this quiz to see some study tips just for you.
QUIZ: Which study tip should you try this Midterm?
December 9, 2019
Turkey is a traditional Thanksgiving food. But was it at the first Thanksgiving celebration?
QUIZ: Do you know Thanksgiving?
November 25, 2019
QUIZ: Which song from Kanyes Jesus is King should you be listening to?
QUIZ: Which song from Kanye’s “Jesus is King” should you be listening to?
November 11, 2019
Social media platforms are a highlight reel, and Instagram is the most performative of them all. Yes, casual Instagram is good in theory. But its not really possible.
[ARTS OPINION] Instagram can’t ever be casual
May 12, 2022
SEARCHING. Thrift shopping is a fun yet difficult task. Finding clothes that fit an individuals style can be very time consuming.
Thrifting provides eco-friendly and cost effective alternative to buying new
May 10, 2022
CRIMINALLY ENTERTAINING. True crime media has been on the rise in popularity, taking many forms such as videos, documentaries, and podcasts. For example, YouTuber Bailey Sarian is known for her videos discussing true crime murder cases while doing her makeup.
[ARTS OPINION] Is true crime in the media ethical?
May 5, 2022
PROMINENT PERCUSSION. Sophomore Sam Murphy plays several instruments in the percussion section throughout the ensembles performance.
[PHOTO STORY] Jazz Cabaret shines in front of a full house
May 4, 2022
ON MY MIND. Popular lifestyle YouTuber Ava Jules recently started a podcast, which has been a dream of hers. As the title suggests, Jules discusses anything and everything that is on her mind in each episode. There are currently five episodes released.
[PODCAST REVIEW] Ava Jules shows candid side in On My Mind
May 2, 2022
ON MY MIND. Popular lifestyle YouTuber Ava Jules recently started a podcast, which has been a dream of hers. As the title suggests, Jules discusses anything and everything that is on her mind in each episode. There are currently five episodes released.
[PODCAST REVIEW] Ava Jules shows candid side in On My Mind
May 2, 2022
Animals square off for battle in Super Auto Pets.
[GAME REVIEW] Super Auto Pets: a wildly fun time
April 17, 2022
CONTENT CREATOR. Derulo creates a milli-meal in one of his TikTok videos, marking the addition of another million followers.
[INFLUENCER REVIEW] Jason Derulo: bringing 2000s fame to TikTok
April 14, 2022
Air Jordan 1 Mid University in Black and White.
[PRODUCT REVIEW] Air Jordans: are all-star shoes worth the all-star price?
April 11, 2022
THE MOTH. In this episode of The Moth Radio Hour, Janet Clarke talked about her experience as a mime at a St. Paul Saints game.
[PODCAST REVIEW] The Moth Radio Hour soars above other podcasts
April 8, 2022
Henry on the Street
Henry on the Street
April 29, 2022
[FILTERED] Whats your favorite horror movie?
[FILTERED] What’s your favorite horror movie?
April 16, 2022
[FILTERED] What is your favorite song?
[FILTERED] What is your favorite song?
April 14, 2022
Stading highlights the importance of prioritizing interests for senior projects
Stading highlights the importance of prioritizing interests for senior projects
April 13, 2022
[STYLE EDIT] Morse praises streetwear for the students
[STYLE EDIT] Morse praises streetwear for the students
April 11, 2022
[PODCAST] Healthy relationships and how to cultivate them
[PODCAST] Healthy relationships and how to cultivate them
May 13, 2022
NEW BEGINNINGS. Upper School counselor Susanna Short has been working at SPA since 2010. As her 12th year at SPA comes to an end, Ms. Short will be moving to New Mexico with her wife and starting a private practice. There, she hopes to work with adolescents and adults from across the country.
Words of wisdom: to and from Susanna Short
April 29, 2022
In this episode, junior Ali Browne talks to upper school Spanish teacher Christine Pinero, juniors Freya Brokken and Simon Assefa about their experience with burnout and how they deal with them.
Feeling tired, forgetful and stressed? You might be experiencing a burnout.
April 16, 2022
In this episode, senior Elle Chen interviews senior Pah Na about his language learning experience of Karen as his first language.
The Language Learning Process: Ep. 5 Language Spoken at Home – Karen
April 4, 2022
In this Episode, sophomore Zadie Martin interviews interviewing sophomore Arden Lillemo, history teacher Andrea Moerer and sophomore Delaney Devine on their experiences with deja vu.
[SUPERSTITIONS] Ep.2: Deja Vu
March 16, 2022
April 2022 Issue
April 26, 2022
March 2022 Issue
March 8, 2022
February 2022 Issue
February 8, 2022
January 2022 Winter Sports Special Edition
January 18, 2022
November 2021 Issue
November 19, 2021
The student news of St. Paul Academy and Summit School

The Rubicon
The student news of St. Paul Academy and Summit School

The Rubicon
Elle Chen

Elle Chen, co-Director of RubicOnline

Elle Chen (she/her) is a co-Director of RubicOnline. This is her fourth year on staff. Over the summer, Elle interned at NSPA to help plan journalism conventions, create a book and learn about yearbook spreads. Recently, Elle has found a new passion for playing cards and spending more time with her family and friends. Elle can be reached at [email protected]

All content by Elle Chen
It’s a piece about me, my identity, personal history, family and how my cultures- Israeli and Irish- combine. (senior Noa Ni Aolain Gross)

[PHOTO STORY] Senior Art Seminar AWAKE connects us all

April 29, 2022
NEW BEGINNINGS. Upper School counselor Susanna Short has been working at SPA since 2010. As her 12th year at SPA comes to an end, Ms. Short will be moving to New Mexico with her wife and starting a private practice. There, she hopes to work with adolescents and adults from across the country.

Words of wisdom: to and from Susanna Short

April 29, 2022
SUPPORTING UKRAINE. From reading the news to donating to participating in marches, Barchuk believes that support doesn’t need to be hindered by the distance that lies between St. Paul and Ukraine.

Distance? Barchuk proves that everyone can support Ukraine

April 15, 2022
In this episode, senior Elle Chen interviews senior Pah Na about his language learning experience of Karen as his first language.

The Language Learning Process: Ep. 5 Language Spoken at Home – Karen

April 4, 2022
DOUBLE JOY. Co-Director Elizabeth Trevathan smiles as she receives her Journalist of the Year award. Trevathan said, I think 9th grade me is freaking out right now. It feels very strange… very surreal.

Co-Director Elizabeth Trevathan named 2022 Minnesota Journalist of the Year

March 12, 2022
A MILLION MEMORIES. On one side of Waibels award-winning slab vase, she incorporated a youthful baby bunny that reminds her of the vegetables and fruits she and her brother used to pick.

Waibel shares her youth through MSAA Gold Key ceramics slab vase

February 24, 2022
INCLUSIVITY. For years, it’s been a tradition for seniors to wear blazers, dresses, or pantsuits at graduation. But as the times change, attire should change as well.

Opinion Board sparks discussion about graduation attire as USC’s revision makes its way to Head of School

February 17, 2022
What do you love?

What do you love?

February 14, 2022
As part of their initiative to spread awareness, the OIF creates a list of the most banned and challenged books each year.

Five banned books to read right now

February 14, 2022
ASA X MUSLIM AFFINITY GROUP. During Tutorial, ASA and the Muslim Affinity Group joined hands in the Chinese classroom. Senior Pah Na said, The event today was kind of a mess but it was fun and there were lots of people and more importantly food which is what brought us together. We couldn’t have a stove due to fire concerns but hopefully next time we can have a more official banquet in the dining hall.

[PHOTO STORY] Asian Student Alliance and Muslim Affinty Groups gather for himbasha, dumplings and more

January 21, 2022
YUM-BASHA. Himbasha is an Ethiopian Flatbread. With a slightly sweet taste, some Himbasha can be plain or garnished with raisins, ginger and more. Often served on special occasions, himbasha was perfect for this special ASA and Muslim Affinity Group get-together.

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GATEWAY TO FUN. While sharing all types of delicious cuisine, students also conversed about themselves. In particular, one interesting conversation that sparked as Na and junior Zoe Cheng Pinto ate flatbread and drank Boba was Buddhism. Although Na is Karen and Cheng Pinto is part Hong Kongese, both shared stories about their experiences as temples in the Twin Cities.

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FIRST HOME. In 2009, Shaughnessy was adopted from India at the age of four. At her orphanage, Moushi women took care of her. This photo was taken on the day that Shaughnessy was adopted.

Shaughnessy heals through the revival of adoptee affinity group Love & Grace

January 19, 2022
TEAMWORK, DREAM WORK. Seniors Annika Brelsford, Pah Na, Grant Mortenson, Will Sedo and more, hop on Nas large blue sled together as they speed down the hill. Na said, I brought my own sled which was nice and we were able to get five people on the sled at once going down the hill. I was on top of Grant’s shoulders. I thought it was really fun, it was great to see everyone out there wiping out or chilling with their hot chocolate.

[PHOTO STORY] Outdoor Club’s Sledding Extravaganza attracts largest crowd in years

January 14, 2022

Check the news and reflect

January 6, 2022
HAPPY HANNUKAH. This year, Hannukah went from Nov. 28, to Dec. 6. During todays tutorial, Mishpacha hosted a schoolwide Hannukah party in the small gym to celebrate.

[PHOTO STORY] Mishpacha’s Hanukkah party helps students unwind before midterms

December 9, 2021
World hunger is complicated as it has several different levels that build upon each other.

[Photo] Hold on Elon Musk: six billion dollars can’t solve world hunger

December 3, 2021
UNEARTH THE TRUTH. Thanksgiving is known for its turkey and time with family, but it is important to recognize the roots of the holiday and how it affected indigenous people.

[Photo] [STAFF EDITORIAL] Recognize the history of Thanksgiving and celebrate Indigenous cultures instead

November 17, 2021
MY STORY, MY SONG. Reuben Kitto Stately talks to the 9-12 assembly about his experience as a native person growing up in the Twin Cities. Stately also shared his belief during Q&A that the best function of a white ally is to spread accurate information and “Just don’t stand in the way, then we will all be at peace.”

Reuben Kitto Stately introduces his Native narrative through rap

November 11, 2021
THE POWER OF DATA. Levitt is an SPA alumni and UChicago economics professor. He said, SPA can be a leader again. In his session Levitt shared personal anecdotes about his experience at SPA and in the professional world of data science and economics.

Renowned economist Steven Levitt returns to his alma mater with big data advice

November 6, 2021
All around town, neighbors lawns are getting decorated with Halloween decorations, horror movies are being advertised and haunted houses are being visited. But nothing seems just as horrific as these hair stories.

Horror lover? Wait until you hear these hair stories.

October 16, 2021
Senior Marie Schumacher swims her first inidividual event of the night which is the 200 freestyle.

SPARKS flip turn to the end of their season with last conference meet

October 15, 2021
Senior Ellie Sandeen prepares to get on the blocks for her first individual event, the 200 IM.

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During the first relay of the night, the SPARKS had a strong swim but were unfortunately disqualified.

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Seniors Divya Bhargava, Eleanor Smith and Marie Schumacher purple out during the school day for their meet.

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On the deck, the SPARKS cheer on their teamates as they race.

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From head to toe, seniors Divya Bhargava, Eleanor Smith and Marie Schumacher purple out.

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Senior Divya Bhargave even tie-dyed her socks the Sparks colors for the special occasion.

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The varsity girls prepare for their first relay of the night, the 200 Medley.

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Senior Marie Schumacher keeps her head down as she heads for the last turn of her race.

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The SPARKS gather around their coach to carefully inspect the swim schdule, making sure they dont miss their event.

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Before the meet starts, the Sparks get together to do their cheer. The SPARKS are a co-op swim and dive team with Highland Park.

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In honor of the seniors last meet, SPARKS coach prepared small gifts and flowers for each of the seniors.

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The relay begins. The backstrokers dive into the water and begin not only the first leg of the race but also swim the first lap of the meet.

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Unique from the three other strokes, backstrokers start their race in the pool instead of on the blocks.

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Senior Ellie Sandeen stands on the block, getting ready to jump in.

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During the relay, swimmers must time themselves perfectly. Just as the previous swimmer touches the wall, the next swimmer jumps in.

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Senior Ellie Sandeen has a little over 50 yards left of her 200 IM left as she swims breaststroke to the wall.

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The SPARKS are a co-op swim and dive team with Highland Park.

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Every year, the seniors wear overalls and blue and gold Spartan gear to celebrate Homecoming.

It’s blue and it’s gold; the Homecoming spirit is back and alive

October 1, 2021
The senior overalls came in all different designs. Some with bandanas, others with flowers.

Seniors create overalls and foster the Spartan spirit

October 1, 2021
Every year, the senior class designs overalls for Homecoming. This year, the class of 2022 did not dissapoint.

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Pictured from left to right, seniors Lily Ellis, Mia Hofmann, James Montague and Lucie Bond.

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From left to right: seniors Henry Burkhardt, Levi Smetana, Divya Bhargava and Esther Allen.

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With the influence of George Floyd’s death in 2020, the argument of defunding the police has never risen so high before.

[Photo] Minnesota Supreme Court overturns lower judge: Police Department Amendment is officially added to the state ballot

September 28, 2021
[MUSIC PODCAST] Sih plays the Baroque-n strings of the violin

[MUSIC PODCAST] Sih plays the Baroque-n strings of the violin

September 25, 2021
Not wanting such a horrible person to take possession of the xiandan, Chang’e gulped down both of the xiandan and ascended to the moon where she became a deity.

[CULTURES @SPA] Students celebrate Mid-Autumn Festival with a moonful of food

September 20, 2021
The 2021 Alumni/ae Art Show, which is running from Sep. 10 through Oct. 29, and features four artists: Angela Carr 66, Ben Freyinger 96, Katherine Parfet 66, and Valerie Sands 81.

Passionate alumni/ae showcase work in art exhibit

September 18, 2021
Seniors Nina Starchook and Kat Bragg get ready to design their respective club boards.

[Photo] Bulletin Board Contest initiates friendly club rivalries

September 17, 2021
Remembering the 20th anniversary of 9/11 with SPA families, faculty and students.

Remembering 9/11 with SPA families

September 11, 2021
Locally in Minnesota, which had record-breaking droughts this summer, there have also been many large-scale wildfires around and in the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCA) that left the area closed for the first time in 45 years.

BWCA wildfires intensify through dry summer; closed for the first time in 45 years

September 10, 2021
Thus from then on, Hou Yi mourned for his wife who was forever stuck on the moon. And because she liked mooncakes, Hou Yi set them up for her every year on lunar Aug. 15.

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As a reward, Guanyin pusa (a buddha) rewarded Hou Yi with two xiandan (elixirs) which would turn whoever ate them into a deity. Then, on Aug. 15, when Hou Yi went hunting, one of his apprentices, who knew about these xiandan, entered Hou Yi’s house and threatened his wife, Chang’e, to hand them over.

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