The Game of Home Entertainment

     August 29, 1997- Netflix was born; sixteen years later, this baby company would take down the largest entertainment provider Hollywood had at that point ever seen. After taking the throne, the king reigned supreme- with services like Hulu and HBO never coming close to bringing it down. However, on November 12, 2019, The Walt Disney Company- one of the largest entertainment corporations in the world -launched their own streaming service, Disney+, worldwide as a means of expanding their platform. Having taken the internet by storm, consumers are left with only one question- What does this mean for Netflix?

     Netflix had started out like any other company- small, gaining its ground, taking on an industry that eats companies like this alive. At the time, Blockbuster was the king that sat on the throne- dominating the home-video industry with billions in revenue. However, the founders of Netflix, Marc Randolph and Reed Hastings, invested in something that would not just forever change the industry, but be the start to the end of Blockbuster- the Internet. On April 14, 1998, Netflix launched the world’s first online video rental store- having the same buy-or-rent-with-a-late-fee system that Blockbuster used, but with the convenience of doing it from one’s own house. No more did people have to stand in lines on a Friday night as everyone glutted themselves into the store to get their movies for the weekend. It was the shot heard around the world for the industry- there was no going back.

     From there, Netflix thrived. From their release of the monthly subscription system that eliminated late fees, to their being able to turn down Blockbuster when they tried buying them out for $50million, to their new customer recommendations algorithm. Netflix had a few bumps, but they weren’t slowing down. Sixteen years after its birth, Netflix seized the throne from Blockbuster in 2013. Netflix from there reigned over the home-entertainment industry. Out of the students surveyed at Red Mountain, 67.9% currently use Netflix with 88.5% of them being satisfied with the streaming platform.

     However, every king has their mistakes. With shows like The Office- their most viewed show according to People Magazine -leaving their platform in 2021, their consumers aren’t happy. Netflix’s original television shows that have gained a staggering fan base- such as Stranger Things, Orange is the New Black, and Riverdale -have put Netflix into a reported debt of $3.5 billion according to Forbes reporter Stephanie Denning. And with every season of their television shows taking around a year to produce, this in itself could cause subscribers to lose interest in Netflix’s service. An already reported 11.5% of students surveyed at Red Mountain are not satisfied with the Netflix streaming platform.

However, with the launch of Disney Plus on November 12, 2019, those prior mistakes that Netflix has made might bring greater damage than once thought. Over the years, The Walt Disney Company has bought out other entertainment companies such as Hulu, ESPN, Marvel Studios, Pixar, Lucasfilm, Fox, National Geographic, and ABC. All of these services except ABC are available on Disney Plus- and with Disney having a reported revenue of $22.45 billion just in 2016 alone according to Business Insider, funding original television shows will not be an issue.

Disney Plus has already created original shows for their platform themed around beloved franchises that Netflix simply cannot create. Shows set in the Star Wars Universe, Marvel Cinematic Universe, Disney Channel Universe, and even National Graphic Originals have already been produced and set in motion. And with the Internet and media already showing love for the Star Wars original The Mandalorian, the plot thickens in the battle for the throne.

And with those original shows almost guaranteeing to catch the eyes of fans comes the added benefits of pricing. Netflix offers three subscription plans according to Business Insider. The most basic plan is $8.99 a month which allows one account for one device, the next one up is the $12.99 plan in which two devices in HD are available, and the Premium plan is $15.99 a month which four devices can be streamed at once in HD/4K Ultra HD. However, Disney PLus offers prices that can very easily compete. Their basic plan- which offers regular Disney classics, originals, etc. -costs $6.99 per month, prices that Netflix had never at any time offered. While their Bundle Pack costs $12.99 per month which includes all or regular Disney Plus and gains consumers free access to Hulu and ESPN. Disney also offers a one time payment of $69.99 for a whole year of Disney Plus access.

Prices like those with content that Disney Plus offers means huge competition for other streaming services. Netflix’s long time rival Hulu had already been bought by The Walt Disney Company in 2017. And with other rivals such as Amazon Prime offering $8.99 per month and HBO Now offering $14.99 per month, the plot thickens for who is next to take the throne of the home entertainment industry. Out of the students surveyed at Red Mountain, 59% plan on purchasing their own subscription to the new service.

However, like the king rival Netflix has done, Disney Plus has made some moves that might be cause for concern regarding dissatisfaction with customers. The Hulu subscription that comes with the Disney Plus Bundle Pack is not ad free. If consumers really want ad free Hulu, then they need to purchase a separate subscription to Hulu for $11.99 per month on top of the $12.99 per month Bundle Pack. And even though Disney Plus will credit consumers $5.99 every month for doing this, the need for extra money spending and general inconvenient extra steps might be something that keeps subscribers from purchasing the Bundle Pack all together. Out of the students surveyed at Red Mountain, 41% stated that they will not be purchasing Disney Plus.

However, the game is set, and the competition has been started. Netflix has already retaliated by signing a deal with children’s television producer Nickelodeon. The deal allows Netflix to produce original animated films and in partnership with Nickelodeon to be broadcasted on their service. Currently, Disney Plus is approaching their first month of publicity. And so far the service has gained extreme attention from fans and the media. Only time will tell who will ultimately rule the home entertainment industry. Both have their strong suits and their downfalls. But one thing is certain, there can only be one king.

(featured photo courtesy of techradar.com)

A New Era

As sparks, smoke, and heat flair from a plasma table, a students holds up a piece of art. Founded six years ago, the Cut Crew has made themselves a staple of the RMHS Welding Program, working hard to design, craft and clean metal cutouts using artistic and practical aspects. Operating out of room 340, the Cut Crew received a new and improved cnc plasma table on August 7, 2019 after proving the potential of the program.

     Larger and more efficiently done projects are just the surface of what this means. For instance, the Cut Crew uses their talents to better serve the community. Last year, in a joint effort with the Welding Team, the Crew traveled to Zaharis Elementary School to repair broken metal gym equipment.

     “There was a nine by nine [foot] square that they had pieced together using galvanized steel pipe fittings,” said junior Garrett Barnes, “[it kept] falling apart and wasn’t really that strong . . . [so] we welded that together for them.”

     Done not for publicity, but for the general welfare of others, the Cut Crew devoted an entire day to accomplishing the task.

     But their efforts aren’t restricted there, as a key part of their program includes giving assistance to neighboring and even underappreciated programs. For instance, as an act of showing support for the Native American community on campus, numerous hours were dedicated to designing and cutting a dream catcher inspired artwork for the Native American Club.

     “When you talk about Courage, Respect, and Influence,” said Program Leader Daniel Hurst, “You’re talking about my kids. We always see clubs that we think are respectful and outstanding type clubs [and] the first thing you want to do [is to] help them.”

     Accompanied in display with a donated wooden Indian Chief head, the artwork is proudly displayed outside the office of Native American Liason Anna Makin across room 248.

     Campus community service is not just a key foundational pillar to the program, but also a necessity for all of the Crew’s members. What started out as extra volunteer work, the Cut Crew this year made it a requirement for its members to pick up trash off the campus daily to join. But the new table does not just signify more community service work.

     The Cut Crew was founded and discovered six years ago after Program Leader Daniel Hurst discovered the old plasma table collecting dust in the Engineering room. Taking it back to room 340, he cleaned it off and set up the machine for use- it was at this moment the Cut Crew was born. Two students volunteered to operate the machine and six years later, the program has grown to five senior officer members, with more students joining this year.

     “I love helping others,” said new member Meagan Kleinschmidt, “It takes a lot of time, effort, and attention to small detail to be successful with the plasma machine. [So] all the projects that go towards the community outreach . . . was why I [am] so drawn to the table.”

     The new plasma table opens many new doors and possibilities for community service, but it also serves as an inspiration for those in the Welding Program who want to be apart of something greater. The new table has already inspired an additional 10 students to join the Cut Crew family.

     The Cut Crew has proven itself to the MPS district. They’re able to stand up for others, use their voice and their talents to not only make the campus a better place, but the public community. Their efforts are not in vain, but because of the fact that every member that can call themselves a Plasma Table Operator believes in being apart of something greater than themselves. The new table represents not just a $24,000 investment, but an investment into a family, a campus, a community. Every tool can be used to make the world better, so get ready for a ride, because this year the Cut Crew enters a new era.

(Featured photo by Ronald Feitzinger)

AP Council: Behind the Scenes of AP

By Clara Beuoy 

Whether it’s starting a fundraiser to pay for students’ AP exams or deciding what’s best for the common good of the AP classes as a whole, AP Council strives to make the AP experience better overall. The AP Council representatives, chosen by their AP teachers, come together every meeting to develop ideas to promote awareness of the benefits of taking AP classes.

“We represent and create awareness for the AP classes by providing ways in which they can receive help,” senior Fletcher Archibald said. “We promote the advantages to them as opposed to taking on-level classes.”

AP Council has impacted the members by giving them a place to work together and become close with their classmates. These bonds have blossomed friendships and created a small community.

“When we first started having meetings, I just immediately felt at home with this group of peers,” sophomore Halle Kimnach said. “We all became friends really quickly through AP Council. I honestly love spending time making new ideas and promoting our club.”

The AP council representatives also appreciate the opportunities they’ve been given. To be chosen to be a representative is a great responsibility, which includes the decision making of what to do with the funding for AP Council. This includes paying for AP exams for students who can’t afford it and coming up with fundraising ideas to pay for those tests.

“It’s so much fun to be an officer in AP Council,” sophomore JC Eyler said. “This whole experience of being a representative has been such an honor as well.”

To receive updates from AP Council, follow their Twitter https://twitter.com/RMAPCouncil. 

SAT: Where Success Awaits

An entrance exam used by most universities and colleges to determine admissions, the Scholastic Assessment Test (SAT) is a multiple-choice test administered by the College Board.

“SAT/ACT Exams are important and necessary for admission to most 4 year universities,” junior advisor Catherine Bianchi said. “Typically, academic/merit-based scholarships are evaluated based on GPA and ACT or SAT scores.”

The SAT tests students on evidence-based reading, writing and math; an essay portion of the test is optional but recommended. A student spends three hours, plus 50 minutes for the essay, applying skills, knowledge, and understandings in order to receive an acceptable score that will give them a chance at being admitted into a university or college of their choice. 65 minutes are given for 52 reading questions, 35 minutes for 44 writing and language tasks, and 80 minutes for 58 math problems. The highest possible score a student can be presented with is 1600, 200-800 for both reading and math.

Advisors suggest that students study for the SAT through Khan Academy as this gives students personalized practice tests based on their PSAT scores. The ACT website offers practice tests of their own.

“I take the SAT on March 9,” junior Sarah Swanson said. “I’m super nervous, but I’ve been studying like crazy. I think it’s really helpful to either see a tutor who specializes in SAT studies, sign up and attend SAT prep classes, or buy an SAT study book written by College Board.”

Compared to the SAT, the only difference between both tests is the fact that the ACT also tests students on science. The length of the test is two hours and 55 minutes long or 3 hours and 35 minutes if the student chooses to take the writing portion. The maximum score a student can receive on the ACT is a 36. Most colleges and universities will accept scores from either exam and do not favor one over the other.

“It is recommended that juniors take the SAT OR ACT during the Spring of their junior year,” Ms. Bianchi said. “Red Mountain offers the SAT and the closest school that offers the ACT is Mountain View. Students apply to college Aug.-Oct. of their senior year and don’t want to worry about taking exams then.”

An SAT and/or ACT score is a key component needed for a person’s college application. For more information visit http://www.mpsaz.org/rmhs/services/careercenter/.

Girl Up: Making a Difference in Girls Lives

Room 244 is invigorated by empowering discussions of change and hope-filled smiles during Girl Up meetings. Girl Up, a brand new club this year, gives their members the tools they need to start a movement for change. Funded by the United Nations Foundation, the club finally made its way to Red Mountain with help of senior Ilse Rodriguez, the club president. Their mission: to make a difference in the lives of girls all around the world.

“Rather than complaining about an issue, I’ve always been a firm believer of going out to find a solution,” Rodriguez said.

The club’s mission is to help solve issues pertaining to girls who have disadvantages and help them achieve their dreams. Most recently they raised money through a goat yoga class to help girls in Uganda get an education. Rodriguez says the club has given her confidence to pursue her passion of leading future generations.

Posing in a pyramid structure, Girl Up members try yoga with goats standing on their backs on Dec. 15. (Photo Courtesy of GirlUP RM)

“This club has impacted me in many ways,” junior Isabelle Clem said. “It’s given me a new group of friends. We’re also able to make a difference in the community.”

Girl Up has an effect not only on campus but around the world. Many girls have new flourishing friendships after joining.

“I am excited to see the passion and excitement the club members bring to this international movement toward equality,” Ms. Cupryk said. 

This club is something to keep an eye on. Girl Up meets every Thurs. at lunch in Room 244. For more information, visit Girl Up’s twitter page  www.twitter.com/girluprm or talk to Ms. Cupryk in Room 244.

Charity Dance Force Concert

Dance Force choreographed and performed at the Charity Dance Force Concert fundraiser to raise money for Helen’s Hope Chest on Feb. 4. The dances all had meaning behind them.

“We are doing a contemporary dance as the opener and it represents hope,” senior Madison Dobyns said. “The song we are dancing to is ‘Don’t you Worry Child’ to emphasize that anything you go through there is always a brighter side.”

For the closing number there was a bit of a different meaning behind it.

“We are also dancing to ‘High Hopes’ for the finale which is more of an upbeat song,” senior Madison Dobyns said. “There’s hope even when things seem impossible.”

The charity dance concert was enjoyed by everyone,

“It’s always fun to choreograph as a team,” senior Kayla Coxon said. “The best part is definitely performing the dances we put together.”

Helen’s Hope Chest, the place they raised money for, does many things for charity.

“Some of the things they do are provide clothes and different necessities for the foster children,” senior Kayla Coxon said.

This group worked as a team and created these amazing dances to help others who are not as privileged.

“Not everyone is as privileged to have what I have,” senior Madison Dobyns said. “Being able to help those in need is all that matters.”

This event was a great way to spread joy through the art of dance. Everyone enjoyed helping others and spreading hope and positivity to everyone.

“Being able to share my love for dance with my best friends is always an awesome time,” senior Kayla Coxon said.

 

 

Drama On The Daily

Red Mountain has had many great performances, and Mr. Erickson, the current drama teacher, has a few personal opinions to share about them.

“When we get to rehearsal after school, there’s a new switch turned on,” Mr. Erickson said. “They get to be creative, they get to use their imagination and get their creative juices flowing.”

He says that there is so much talent. It is always hard to have to tell people that they didn’t make it into the show.

“This is probably one of the best years I’ve had,” Mr. Erickson said. “They get along great and they hang out together. We are always constantly learning about each other and learning about our strengths.” 

There is a multitude of reason that students become involved in the Drama program.

“On a specific level, I want to be an actor,” junior Riley Siegler said. “Drama helps me towards that career and get my experience. On a deeper level, it helps become a better leader and grow confidence and make friends.”

Seigler has never gotten a ‘no’ from any casting directors and that has helped her learn from roles she has had in past plays and musicals. Each role is just a different version of herself so she can easily do them. Getting the experience with drama and plays has helped her become more confident.

For more information about the Drama program, visit http://www.mpsaz.org/rmhs/organizations/theatreclub/ .

(Featured Photo Courtesy of Mr. Erickson)

Inspiration​ Behind the Internship

Biotechnology students pull supplies from a plastic cart filled with lab equipment. DNA analysis gels are running and the soon-to-be scientists are updating their laboratory journals.  The class is focused on introducing bacteria to a new environment, protein separation, DNA separation, and bacteria genome editing. One advantage of the program includes internships offered in years three and four.

“Being in biotechnology has given me experience working in a lab and practice executing research projects,” junior Rex Dyer said.

Internships allow students to gain confidence in their lab skills as well as give direction in career choices. Research is time-consuming like a job, which refines time management skills as well as responsibility and dedication to the project. Working with professors and mentors invested in the scientific principles of their interests gives interns a sense of professionalism.

“The most beneficial thing from internship is working in a cooperative atmosphere where everyone is dedicated with lots of help and support.” senior Brandon Garcia said.

Inspiration to seek out an internship comes from a long history for the love of science. Although internships look excellent on resumes and college applications, the motivation stretches much farther.

“When I was younger I would shadow my mom in the hospital,” senior Geethika Ameneni said. “Even though I never saw patients, I got a feel for the environment and knew I wanted to be a doctor.”

None of this would be possible without help from the biotechnology teacher, Ms. Gazda. She builds up students’ laboratory skills through year one and two so they have the knowledge to work in a research lab with professors and professional equipment. She presents available programs to her students who seek out the desired opportunity and finish the application process.

  “I hope my students learn confidence and skills through their internship to make a significant impact on the world,” Ms. Gazda said.

For more information about the biotechnology program, visit Ms. Gazda in Room 717 or visit http://www.mpsaz.org/rmhs/staff/klgazda/rm-bt/.

(Featured Photo by Cassidy Gavin)

The AP Advantage

It’s lunchtime and suddenly Room 312 becomes filled with the scent of freshly-popped popcorn. Upon entering the room, Cullen Whitelock can be seen standing in front of a Keurig coffee machine, but he isn’t making coffee. Whitelock taking his ramen cup off of the Keurig is an example of the simple, everyday innovations coming from the students who roam here.”

“Here’s the thing–I don’t even like coffee, I like ramen,” Whitelock said. “[I use the Keurig as a] hot water dispenser.”

The walls are lined with college pennants and the dreams of the students who come here. Looking around, it can be observed that this is an atmosphere of intellectual achievement.

The AP Lounge is an exclusive perk for AP and AVID students. It provides a productive space open to high-achieving students. This room offers resources and promotes teamwork that every AP student needs for success.

“At first I was hesitant to segregate out [and give special treatment to the AP and AVID students] but I think it gives them an opportunity to come together and utilize an area solely designated for studying and working together,” Ms. Brierton said.

The AP Lounge is a place where students go to get academic advice. As a result of the teamwork found here, the students who occupy the room rarely need teacher assistance. If one student is confused about a topic, there is always a peer willing to explain.

“It’s nice to have a place where you know there are other AP kids who understand the stress you’re going through,” junior Allison Leimone said.

“[My favorite thing about the AP room is] the kids and how they interact with one another,” Ms. Brierton said. “They’re helping each other on all sorts of various assignments and studying tips. Even when it’s loud, it’s still academic.”

Many things are offered exclusively in this room, such as AP test study guides, SAT and ACT study guides, pamphlets about college and study tips printed out on colorful cardstock. A few students question whether or not it’s fair for other students who want access to certain things that are located in the room.

“You may want to prep for the SAT but you’re not in AP,” Leimone said. “They moved all the books here and that’s not fair.”

Instead of SAT books, perhaps more needed supplies should be accessible such as paper, pens, pencils and calculators.

“I think there could be more paper and academic materials,” Ms. Brierton said. “I don’t see materials that the kids can use–and couches would be nice.”

Students in the AP Lounge think that the room was a great idea. It offers accelerated youth the chance to excel in their courses in a place where they feel welcome and can work hard with their peers. Even though some improvements could be made, everyone hopes the AP Lounge can continue being offered for years to come.

(Featured Photo By Sage Crosby)

French Fanatics

French club is an exciting rompus of chatter and gossip about the French lifestyle and local gossip. The air smells sweet like pastries, of bread and chocolate. The club members taste crepes filled with Nutella, chocolate chips and a mouthful of whipped cream. For the students in Room 259, French Club is not just a club. It is a way of life and a place to connect with other people who are passionate about the French lifestyle.

“They are the most down to earth people you will ever meet,” president Jennifer Ramos said. “They are sweet and energetic people who are always willing to help anyone in need.”

AP French teacher and French Club sponsor Madame Bute loves meeting new members and welcomes everyone.

“Anyone who is curious about the world, loves learning different cultures and ways of thinking about new things should join French Club,” Madame Bute said.

Many French students enjoy the large turn out and diversity among club members.

“Members were good at doing henna designs for Tailgate. I think they all genuinely want to be part of this group,” junior Elena Flores said.

French Club looks forward to visiting the Phoenix Art Museum to see beautiful art in Arizona. For more information about the French Club, visit room 259.

(Featured Photo Courtesy of Jennifer Ramos)