Panorama November Issue by Ladue Publications

The Nature Issue

Blustery winds bring falling leaves and fading daylight as we approach the middle of the autumn season. All around, the deep rust of oak trees blurs with the golden blush of maples, painting a fleeting reminder of the passage of time. We only have so long before the harsh Missouri winter renders the outdoors too inhospitable to take a picnic, go backpacking or be amidst nature without the coming snow.

This month, we chose to make a flip-issue, with this side highlighting nature, and the other the election.

EXECUTIVE EDITOR IN CHIEF

Arti Jain

MANAGING EDITOR IN CHIEF

Lathan Levy

DESIGN EDITOR IN CHIEF

Emily Liu

COPY EDITORS IN CHIEF

Katie Myckatyn

Will Kodner

ART EDITOR IN CHIEF

Kelly Zhang

PHOTO EDITOR IN CHIEF

Vincent Hsiao

IN-DEPTH EDITORS

Alzhraa Mahmoud

Celina Zhou

NEWS EDITORS

Marie Demkovitch

Cindy Liu

Here we draw attention to the importance of engaging with the environment, whether it be through conserving the wilderness, bringing aspects of the outside inside or participating in outdoor sports.

Wetlands, which were once plentiful and essential ecosystems, are disappearing before our eyes. For this issue’s in-depth, we cover the destruction and protection of Missouri’s wetlands, focusing on current conservation efforts and their integral role in our state’s ecological vibrancy.

Panorama Staf

FEATURES EDITORS

Grace Huewe

Ira Rodrigues

OPINIONS EDITORS

Ella Bender

Grace Kweon

HEALTH & SPORTS EDITORS

Mason Eastman

Ryan Snyder

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

EDITORS

Sara Rohatgi

Aaron Lin

STAFF MANAGER

Nyla Weathersby

COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT

LIAISON

Ishaan Pandey

COLUMNIST

Frank Chen

Elsewhere, we feature a passionate environmentalist teacher and a student triathlete. We highlight a local farmer’s market and plants well-suited for indoor-living. Lastly, we review the best outdoor spots and give tips on stargazing. Grab a jacket and get ready to explore the world that lies beyond your doorstep!

Emily Liu

ASSOCIATE EDITORS

Michael Zegel

Jay Heintz

PHOTOGRAPHERS

Isak Taylor

Lilly Jacks

ARTISTS

Fiona Van Allen

Joyce Li

Stephen Song

WEB EDITORS IN CHIEF

Josh Devine

Madeline Awad

ID EDITORS IN CHIEF

Sylvia Hanes

Maya Mathew

Ella Braig

WEB STAFF

Jane Schefel

Katie Jansen

NATURE STAFF

Medha Chode

Annabelle Reagan

Emily Pan

Kaichen Chou

Nathan King

Vicky Derdoy

Nora Brunnquell

Madeline Fong

ELECTION STAFF

Meg Myckatyn

Isaac Zelinske

Max Karsh

Amelie Lock

ID STAFF

Tiya Kaul

Nina Ye

Adela Gingrich

Loukya Gillella

ADVISERS

Sarah Kirksey

Abigail Eisenberg

Growing a New Generation

Social studies teacher Kelley Krejnik promotes sustainability eforts through clubs and classes

By Katie Jansen

Staf

Growing up in Florida, social studies teacher Kelley Krejnik witnessed the increased frequency and severity of hurricanes, as well as the rise in “snowbirds,” a person who migrates from the north to the south, typically during the winter months. After seeing how this environmental phenomenon affected the communities around her, Krejnik used a passion for learning and sharing knowledge to educate her students on the dangers of climate change through the class Sustainable Investigations.

“I keep noticing the absence of [climate change] in education, and I feel like my professional obligation is to do the best I can to prepare and empower my students to be able to live peacefully and thrive in the future,” Krejnik said. “From what I have learned about [climate change], we absolutely have to teach it to our students if we want [change] to be possible.”

Krejnik has been teaching at Ladue High School for seven years. Since then, she’s made

efforts to educate her students on the environment. Aside from launching Sustainable Investigations, a semester-long course which aims to educate students regarding sustainability and push for a bigger conversation about climate change’s effect, Krejnik sponsors two clubs: Student Action for a Greener Earth Club and Greenhouse Club.

“From the very first meeting, I’ve seen her passion for not only [the greenhouse] and sustainability, but just the environment in general,” assistant principal Andy Ross said. “She commits a lot of time, effort and energy to helping with efforts here at school under that umbrella [of sustainability].”

As Krejnik developed her class curriculum and club efforts, her passion for sustainability reflected upon the students she taught. Phoenix Jegel (12) enrolled in Sustainable Investigations last year. Jegel is also currently doing an independent study period with Krejnik, focusing on ways they can improve the Ladue High School’s sustainability.

“

If you’re a teacher, you get to keep learning. You are ofering information to people to improve the opportunities for themselves in the world.”

Kelley Krejnik

Social studies teacher

CURIOUS?

Scan here to listen to an audio of the story

“She’s very receptive,” Jegel said. “It’s about what the student wants to do and it’s really nice, because I can say anything. My [independent study] idea has changed five times, and it’s been a month, not even. Every single time she’s been super supportive of whatever I want to get into.”

Through Krejnik’s clubs and classes, she hopes to use her own experiences to educate students about climate change, and ways they can improve personal sustainability. She also aims to encourage students to investigate climate change on their own.

“There’s a lack of knowledge with each [generation],” Krejnik said. “The older people are, the less they know about [climate change]. And yet, it’s the older people who teach the next generation. So we’re always at a knowledge deficit. At some point we’re gonna have to change that. I feel like I have learned enough that I am responsible. I would be irresponsible if I didn’t do what I can to try to share this knowledge with other people.”

Social studies teacher Kelley Krejnik waters one of the plants in her classroom. She cares for the plants in her class as well as the greenhouse. “We have a whole new spin-of club, the Greenhouse Club,” Krejnik said. “We’re talking over 100 diferent students that want to be involved in that, which is huge compared to when that frst started.” (Photo by Isak Taylor)

By Nora Brunnquell

Staf

The Greenhouse Club aims to provide students with a unique sanctuary where they can partake in the rewarding experience of caring for and nurturing plants, by offering a hands-on opportunity to learn about general horticulture.

“Working in the garden, and the greenhouse can be really stress relieving.” Greenhouse Club president Selene Gao (12) said. “It’s not super high commitment, but at the same time it helps you learn stuff that can help you later on. It’s also fun, we are a pretty small club right now, but it also allows for the club to have a sense of community.”

The Greenhouse Club has a large collection of plants that members are able to care for, creating an hands-on experience. Among the variety, there are milkweed, black-eyed susans, indian

grass, forget-me-nots and more. Members have the opportunity to learn about the unique characteristics and needs of each plant, fostering an appreciation for plant life.

“The plan is to help people get better at caring for plants, a lot of people in Greenhouse [Club] want to get into caring for plants, and to do that they want to learn how to care for plants better.”

Selene Gao (12), Greenhouse Club president

The club also encourages its members to learn about the environment of St. Louis and the various ecological challenges it faces. Through engaging discussions and activities, students learn

LEFT: The Greenhouse Club grows plants after school, providing a vibrant and nurturing space for students to connect with nature.

Selene Gao (12), the founder of the Greenhouse Club, started it last year with a vision to foster a community centered around gardening and environmental awareness, and she hopes to see it continue to fourish in the coming years. “It’s so stress relieving,” Gao said.

“Even Ms. Krejnik says, ‘Just being in there, being able to have this thing that you can almost control, It’s really stress relieving.’”

about the region’s diverse ecosystems, including its native plants and wildlife. There is a significant focus placed on understanding invasive species, particularly honeysuckle, which has become a prevalent issue in local landscapes. The club encourages active participation in local environmental initiatives, allowing members to foster a sense of stewardship and responsibility toward the natural world. Through hands-on experiences and collaborative learning, members can not only enhance and grow their knowledge of the local environment, but they can also become advocates for preserving the beauty and integrity of nature.

“You can work in a place that’s really beautiful, because the greenhouse is a place where I think a lot of people want to go, but it is usually locked,” Gao said. “So Greenhouse Club allows you to go inside, and work with people that are really interested in plant care.”

Seeds to Sprout

Students cultivate plants and learn sustainability through the Greenhouse Club

(Photos by Isak Taylor)

Once in a Lifetime

Lifetime Sports students learn the value of outdoor ftness

Learning Editor By Ella Braig

Achorus of fallen leaves crunching under sneakers scores a scenic hike about Malcolm Terrace. Some students converse as they make their way across a shallow creek, careful not to slip on the rocks guiding their path. Others simply follow the trail, admiring the natural beauty that surrounds them. In Lifetime Sports, this is one of the many outdoor field trips the class has participated in over the course of the semester.

Lifetime Sports is taught by Mary Christine Kubik, who has been a P.E. and health teacher at Ladue for 10 years. This is her seventh year teaching the class.

“[In] Lifetime Sports, we usually do individual or partner sports and a lot of fitness stuff as well,” Kubik said. “So, sports that you can do as you get older. They’re easier on the joints.”

Though many of the activities could be played indoors, Kubik expresses the importance of spending time outside. Because of this,

she finds ways to conduct her lessons out in nature.

“So far we’ve done frisbee golf, we’ve done regular golf, we’ve gone on a couple hikes, a walk, we’ve done backyard games [and] tennis,” Kubik said.

Because Lifetime Sports is a semester-long class, Kubik sees to it that her students take as many field trips as possible in their limited amount of time enrolled in the class. One of these excursions was to Malcolm Terrace, a series of trails.

“Malcolm Terrace is pretty flat and it’s just one small loop,” Kubik said. “It’s really close to Ladue. There’s a gravel path. Castlewood’s a little more strenuous. And then, we’re gonna hike down by the Meramec River, which is really pretty.”

Kubik hopes that the act of taking her students outside will allow their mental health to flourish, and positively impact it.

“I sound like a typical teacher for this one, but I think we’re so engrossed in our phones and technology [that] just being outside in nature and listening to nature

“

My classes are really good. They’re really open to each other’s company, and I’m very grateful for them.”

Mary Christine Kubik P.E. and health teacher

while the leaves are changing [is valuable],” Kubik said.

Similarly, Madison Davidson (12) has noticed that her mood has benefited from her time spent in the outdoors.

“I feel like [spending time outside] can make people calmer,” Davidson said. “I think it’s good to spend time outside because you can connect with nature.”

For Ruby Jurgiel (10), the class allows her to explore locations beyond the confines of Ladue High School’s campus.

“I really like going on field trips in general,” Jurgiel said. “But hiking especially because I get the chance to be outside and destress from my core classes.”

Overall, Kubik believes that taking a break from technology to explore the natural world is something that students should incorporate into their daily routine.

“[It’s important that students are] having grounding experience[s] being outside in the fresh air,” Kubik said. “Not listening to an audiobook, not listening to a podcast or music, and just really embracing the world.”

RIGHT: Madison Davidson (12) explores the woods behind the football feld. In the past, she has enjoyed walking along the track. Her P.E. class gave her a new appreciation for the outdoors, though. “I like getting exercise while doing nothing at the same time,” Davidson said.

(Photo by Ella Braig)

All PAWS In

Science teacher Allen Weltig shares the process of creating and running PAWS

By Kaichen Chou

Staf

The quiet hum of the classroom’s vivariums and the scampering of their reptilian inhabitants is drowned out by the chatter of excited students as they perform another clinic simulation. An array of instruments, including nail clippers and vaccination syringes, are displayed on the exam table, waiting to be used. Any animal is game for wellness clinics — from cold-blooded snakes and lizards to fluffy mammals like guinea pigs and dogs.

This class is Comparative Anatomy and Preventative Animal Wellness Service (PAWS), a curriculum kickstarted by science teacher Allen Weltig in 2022. However, his passion for all things

anatomy and animals dates back to his childhood.

“My grandparents had a dairy farm, so I grew up around a lot of animals,” Weltig said. “Some of my earliest memories were finding reptiles around our house. Education is the same way [since] I come from a family of educators.”

Fundamentally, Weltig wanted to create a class where students could both engage in hands-on clinics for experience and simultaneously strengthen their knowledge in other academic fields.

“I love being able to provide that opportunity for students to have that interest,” Weltig said. “You learn a lot of cool stuff working with animals, but also life skills [and] time management.”

MORE TO KNOW

Students share why they chose PAWS

“I wanted to deepen my understanding of veterinary sciences, a strong interest of mine since childhood.”

Kelly Ahuactzi (12)

“I want to go into veterinary sciences, and I want to become a vet.”

Grant Bullinger (11)

“I’ve wanted to join PAWS since freshman year [because I am] an animal lover who enjoys hands-on learning.”

Eelise Riddle (12)

For Brielle DeRuisseau (11), taking this class was one way for her to explore a different avenue of interest, while pursuing a cause she enjoyed.

“I thought [PAWS] was a unique class and I always liked animals,” DeRuisseau said. “Understanding how clinics work and anatomy was [something] I never even thought of before.”

Having the privilege to work with animals, especially pets of staff, necessitates utmost safety and respect during weekly PAWS clinics. Students are assigned various jobs to prepare, and for the Oct. 10 clinic, Aiden Chen (12) undertook the role of ‘Front Office,’ which involves running the background tasks required for a seamless operation.

“I had to help welcome animals, caretakers, create consultations and make sure everything was going smoothly,” Chen said.

Over the years, Weltig has gone through trial and error to continuously enhance PAWS. So far, he’s seen substantial improvements in terms of efficiency.

“I had to find ways to assure that everyone’s safety was always addressed first and to make it accessible for students to keep up,” Weltig said. “I’ve figured out how to run things better and how to prepare the students better.”

LEFT: Brielle DeRuisseau (11) observes classmates interacting with art teacher Patricia Chavez’s dog, Fozzie. In this clinic, DeRuisseau was tasked with taking Fozzie’s heartbeat. “I was watching to see if Dr. Weltig needed any help restraining the dog,” DeRuisseau said. “He did need help later, [and] he had me take the pulse.”

TOP RIGHT: Anna Biedenstein (12) restrains Fozzie. Her job involved keeping Fozzie calm so Dr. Weltig could take a sample. “I had to fnd the right amount of pressure to prevent any injury,” Biedenstein said. “It was my frst time restraining a big dog, so I was a little nervous.”

RIGHT: Anna Biedenstein (12) restrains Fozzie. Her job involved keeping Fozzie calm so Dr. Weltig could take a sample. “I had to fnd the right amount of pressure to prevent any injury,” Biedenstein said. “It was my frst time restraining a big dog, so I was a little nervous.”

RIGHT: Gabby Clinkscale (12) holds of the vein of Dr. Weltig’s cat, Seamus, as he administers a vaccine. She engaged with extra caution because this step is important for the medicine’s full absorption. “We were able to successfully give Seamus the full dose after a few readjustments,” Clinkscale said. (Photos by Vincent Hsiao.)

BOTTOM RIGHT: Gabby Clinkscale (12) holds of the vein of Dr. Weltig’s cat, Seamus, as he administers a vaccine. She engaged with caution because this step is important for the medicine’s full absorption. “We were able to successfully give Seamus the full dose after a few readjustments,” Clinkscale said. (Photos by Vincent Hsiao)

Triple Threat

Karan Vatwani (12) trains for and competes in triathlons

By Vincent Hsiao

Photo Editor in Chief

Karan Vatwani (12) stands with his bike in the St. Louis Rowing Club boathouse Oct. 20 at Creve Coeur Lake in Maryland Heights. Vatwani is a member of the Wheelhouse Racing Team, participating in several triathlons each year that consist of long-distance swimming, cycling and running. He competed at the USA Triathlon Olympic Distance National Championship in Atlantic City, New Jersey in September, which qualifed him for the 2025 World Triathlon Championships Finals in Australia. A rower since his freshman year, Vatwani began training for triathlons with his friends over summer break in 2023. “It started out as just kind of something to do for fun,” Vatwani said. “I just decided it’s something I should pick up over the summer when I’m not rowing or biking.”

TOP: Karan Vatwani (12) jogs on the Lakeview Loop Trail at Creve Coeur Lake Oct. 20. Vatwani’s triathlon training mainly consists of running, as he cycles on a regular basis outside of training.

“Maybe I’ll go eight miles one day, 10 miles [another day],” Vatwani said. “I think with triathlons, for the run portion, at least, it’s less about ftness and more about just keep going on the run.”

LEFT: Vatwani checks his cycling statistics on the Strava app, an activity tracker with social media features. He uses the app with his smartwatch to keep track of his practices and training. “You can like other people’s workouts, see what they did, upload pictures,” Vatwani said. “It’s pretty fun and you’ll see a lot of athletes on there.”

RIGHT: Tucked down on his bike’s aerobars, Vatwani cycles down the Lakeview Loop Trail. The accessory is popular among triathletes, helping them increase their speed and efciency. “The place you can make up the most time in is the bike just because you’re going the fastest, and it’s typically the longest distance in the triathlon,” Vatwani said. “I feel as if where I lose out on the swim, I make up pretty well on the bike, and I think the bike, by itself, has probably led to my qualifcation to the world championship or even nationals.”

BOTTOM: In the pool at the Center of Clayton, Vatwani practices his swimming Oct. 21. He placed 326th out of 2,622 in the 2023 Chicago Triathlon, which included a 1,500 meter swim in Lake Michigan. “I typically swim with friends,” Vatwani said. “My friend’s uncle, who used to do a ton of Ironmans, gives us a lot of workouts, which consists of 3,000 meter pieces where we do a 3,000 meter piece, then we’ll stop, take a break for fve minutes and do it again, and do it again. [It’s] just [about] getting used to long swims and hard pieces.”

Chavez Climbs

Art

By Ella Bender

Viewing Editor

Out of breath, art teacher Patricia Chavez pauses from her trek to rest on a rock. Stone ruins surround her, perched on the top of a mountain with clouds hovering above. People and llamas alike wander around the ruins as Chavez takes in the beauty.

Over the summer, Chavez spent a week in Cusco, Peru. She hiked around Machu Picchu with her eldest son, her cousin and her Peruvian family.

“We took a three hour bus ride, and then a three hour train ride, and then we took a bus up to the mountain,” Chavez said. “Then, we hiked for about three hours in the Machu Picchu area. We had to get up at 3 a.m. and then we didn’t get [to] our hotel [until] 10 p.m.”

The Incan Empire ruled the Andes Mountains along the coast

of South America in the 1400s and early 1500s. Chavez saw their terrace farming, sundials and old residences during her visit.

“[Incas] didn’t use mortar, so they cut stones so that they fit together perfectly, like a puzzle, without any mortar in between them to keep them together,” Chavez said. “They’re very tightly fitted and that technique is something that people [still look at] as an engineering feat for that time.”

For Chavez, visiting Machu Picchu with her family was a spiritual experience that connected her to her Incan heritage.

“The Incas really believed that everything has energy and everything is interconnected,” Chavez said. “Plants and animals, the Earth, the universe, the sun, the stars [and] people, we all have energy. We’re all interconnected. I really feel that philosophy myself and when I was there, I just felt like it all came together.”

TRIP TO PERU

Machu Picchu has an elevation of

7,972

From Quechua, “Machu Picchu” roughly translates to CURIOUS?

To prepare for her trip to Machu Picchu, Chavez walked every day to build up her stamina, brushed up on her Spanish to better communicate and researched how to deal with altitude sickness.

“In Peru, one of the things they use are coca leaves to make tea,” Chavez said. “The coca leaf is medicinal and it helps with fatigue, nausea and altitude sickness. Almost every hotel has tea [that’s] free in the lobby for you to drink.”

Scan here for information on altitude sickness P “Old Mountain.” feet.

Source: PeruRail

This was not Chavez’s first trip to Machu Picchu. When she was 19 years old, she went to Machu Picchu alone. In her 20s, she explored Machu Picchu with her husband, brother and cousins.

“My plan right now is to bring each of my kids [to Machu Picchu] as they graduate high school,” Chavez said. “That’s why I went with [my eldest son]. I’ll probably try to go with [my second son] in the next two years, and then [with] my youngest son.”

Art teacher Patricia Chavez and her family sit atop Machu Picchu. In order to secure a spot on a guided tour, her cousin bought her and her family tickets months in advance. “[My] favorite part was actually getting there, fnally seeing the ruins,” Chavez said. “It’s just so beautiful with all the mountains all around you. It was breathtaking.” (Photo courtesy of Patricia Chavez)

teacher Patricia Chavez explores Machu Picchu

On The Trail

Molly

Salvatori (11)

fnds

community while backpacking with teenagers from across the country

By Annabelle Reagan

Staf

Sweat beads drip down Molly Salvatori’s (11) forehead, each step feeling tougher than the last. The Utah summer sun beats down over staggering cliffs while she’s surrounded by teenagers from across the country that she only met two weeks ago. Her backpack weighs on her back while her group sets up camp for the night. They sit together preparing dinner, laughing at inside jokes and reflecting on the day. Within weeks, they went from complete strangers to best friends, spending every second together through a program called Wilderness Adventures that plans trips for all ages to have a once in a lifetime experience.

“The first backpacking trip I took was before freshman year, and it was a very nerve-wracking experience,” Salvatori said. “It was coming off of [the COVID-19 pandemic], so [I] hadn’t really been with a bunch of people. It was not with anybody that I knew, so it really forced me to get outside of my comfort zone and try new things.”

Backpacking is the act of traveling while carrying all of one’s belongings in a backpack. For Salvatori, it means camping, hiking and embracing nature. When living out of one bag for weeks on end, packing can be tough.

“[My bag] usually [has] a lot of layered clothing because the weather can be unpredictable,” Salvatori said. “I also

have hiking boots, utensils, a little bowl, a fork and a spoon.”

Salvatori has been to countless places with her family and been on three backpacking trips the past three summers. She’s traveled to Wyoming, Utah and Alaska. Each day looks different for Salvatori’s backpacking group. Daily activities all depend on weather conditions, location and general interest.

“I would say we wake up pretty early, and we all work together to clean up the campsite and make breakfast,” Salvatori said. “Then, we’ll spend most of the day doing an activity, whether that’s backpacking or kayaking or whatever it is that day. We usually stop and have lunch. Then, we’ll sometimes have downtime. Then, we make dinner, set up camp and go to bed.”

Preparing for these trips goes beyond buying gear and packing her bag. Salvatori also sets out time to strengthen her mindset before leaving in order to prepare herself to cope with possible problems that lie ahead.

“I do think [backpacking] is very mentally and physically tough. So, [be] prepared for that, just understand that things aren’t always going to go your way.”

Molly

Salvatori (11)

With great successes in travel, also comes tough obstacles. During Salvatori’s backpacking trips, she’s faced many times that were challenging. She believes the key to getting through difficult moments is staying positive and having an open mind.

“When I was in Utah, it was very hot and scary,” Salvatori said. “Trying to stay in there mentally, [and] not being negative really helps. It’s not that you can’t do it, it’s that you just have to believe that you can.” P

Molly Salvatori (11) sea kayaks in Prince William Sound, Alaska. Depending on the location, Salvatori participated in diferent daily activites. “I think my favorite [trip] was Alaska,” Salvatori said. “I thought it was such a cool place to be.”

ABOVE: Molly Salvatori (11) and friends enjoy the view in Denali State Park. While the trips only lasted a few weeks, the friendships made continue. “My favorite part is getting to know people from all over the country,” Salvatori said. “[You] really feel the special bond with people when you’re with them for two weeks.” (Photos courtesy of Molly Salvatori.)

TOP:

: Avery

waters a

Over the past few decades, confdence in our nation’s future has crumbled and escapism — the tendency to seek distraction from unpleasant realities — has soared. Especially as America sinks into distrust and despair, it’s important to remember not to run from problems that get worse and worse when ignored.

The Escapist’s Paradox

Modern travel culture fuels a dangerous indiference for local surroundings

WBy Frank Chen

Columnist

here have you traveled to?” Ask any small group of students this question, and you’ll soon have a list of exploits that would shock even the most hardened explorers of the Middle Ages into awestruck submission. With a couple days of planning and a moderately sized financial sacrifice, a large and increasing segment of the population finds itself both willing and able to see every corner of the world.

Especially in the fallout of the COVID-19 pandemic, American spending on vacations has absolutely skyrocketed. A study by Allianz Partners shows that Americans spent $214 billion on summer vacations in 2023, a 110% jump from 2019. This unprecedented rise can be seen in all fields. According to statistics from the Federal Aviation Administration, the

FAA handles 16,405,000 flights per year, carrying nearly 3 million passengers in and out of U.S. airports every single day. As of 2023, aviation accounted for 5.2% of America’s total economic spending, or GDP.

But even as fortunes are spent to spend time elsewhere, this nation is rotting away. From the Rust Belt to the north to the backcountry of the south, the cities on the coasts to the “flyover states” in the interior, everything is falling apart — and falling together.

Depression rates are soaring. Birth rates have plummeted. Data from the Federal Communications Commission shows that over 560,000 Americans have died from opioid overdoses in the past 30 years. The American Enterprise Institute reports that 17% of Americans have zero close friends. That number was 12% just three years ago.

I could go on and on and on, but this country can’t.

From the suburbs and classrooms of Ladue, everything seems

RUNNING FROM REALITY

61% 15% 9%

of students have been on more than fve vacations since 2019, while only Panorama surveyed 330 students Oct. 22 have planted more than fve trees in their lifetime. of Americans age 18-29 believe that the U.S. is headed in the right direction.

Source: The Hill

like a fever dream. This student body is largely detached from the pain that millions of Americans are going through as this nation burns down around them. Many are convinced that people like them will never be able to make a difference, or worse, that voting alone can magically “save democracy” or “drain the swamp.”

It is this same detachment that drives more and more people to travel abroad. Going on vacation, Americans are increasingly chasing hope and joy — things millions long to feel at home but are unwilling to fight for.

There’s nothing bad about seeing new places. There’s nothing bad about seeing new things. But the way most Americans see the world — full of problems to be avoided and not fixed — is a symptom of a disease that threatens to destroy everything.

When traveling somewhere incredible, take it all in. Think of the beauty all around — the beauty that could exist anywhere, if only everyone would work for it.

RIGHT

Warwick (10)

tree.

(Photo by Lathan Levy)

A Greener World

The destruction of vital Missouri wetlands, exposed

Conserving Editor

By Ira Rodrigues Staf

By Madeline Fong & Nathan King

Mosquitoes buzz, filling the air with a raucous din as they fly in lazy circles. Mud layers the ground in decay and moisture. Spiders glide across the surface of the murky green water, and an unbearable stench fills the air, evoking the image of rancid sewage. This is what most people picture when they think of wetlands: a marshy, swampy mess with little environmental impact. Few know the reality of the once majestic floodplains that spanned millions of acres and were an essential part of the Missouri ecosystem.

These deep waters, blanketed with water lilies and surrounded by soft rushes and sweeping willows, used to bloom with life. They enable the survival of thousands of creatures; for many species, the wetlands are their only home. They are responsible for enriching the soil that we now depend on for crops and agriculture. They breathe life into the environment.

Now, they’re disappearing.

Wading In

How did the wetlands become the forgotten, endangered habitats they are today? According to Michael Saxton, an ecological restoration and land stewardship manager at the Shaw Nature Reserve, it’s because people didn’t understand their true value.

“Historically, we didn’t value [wetlands] very much,” Saxton said. “[People] would just drain the wetlands, because they didn’t see a lot of value to them. [They] looked at these areas and [said], it’s just a swamp, it’s just a marsh. What does it do? You can’t use it. But they’re really ecologically diverse.”

In fact, the Missouri wetlands host a variety of plants and wildlife, from towering cypress trees and herons to the tiniest of green tree frogs. These species depend on the floodplains to survive.

“[Wetlands] have a whole bunch of different reptiles, amphibians, birds [and a] whole wide array of plants that physically can’t grow anywhere else,”

Photo by Robin Powell

Photos courtesy of Missouri Botanical Garden

Wetland Wonders

A look at species common to the wetlands

Saxton said. “They’ve specialized in living in these wetland communities.”

As well as providing a home for many, wetlands can also mitigate the effects of climate change with the flora that they support, according to St. Louis University assistant professor Matthew Bast.

“We have this fundamental disconnect between ourselves and the natural world. We’ve lost that sense that we belong to an ecosystem.”

Michael Saxton Shaw Nature Reserve Manager

“Water plants can hold a ton of water, so wetland areas soak up more water than regular land,” Bast said. “[They] can soak up pollutants, slow the spread [of floods] and hold tons of carbon that otherwise, if those areas were burned and farmed, would be in the atmosphere.”

Tickseed Coreopsis

Known for its bright yellow color, tickseed grows naturally in wetland habitats.

But despite all these positive qualities, over 87% of Missouri wetlands were destroyed, according to an article by St. Louis National Public Radio. This has made the wetlands vulnerable to threats like climate change.

“Those wetland communities are almost all gone,” Saxton said. “If the 13% that remains are less resilient because they’ve lost so many species, in an era of climate change and various other pressures, they’re even more at risk.”

A Deeper Dive

Wetland destruction is often dismissed as a concern because of the agriculturally rich farmland that has replaced them. After all, wetlands themselves don’t provide any economic benefits. A closer look at this issue reveals deeper, more insidious crises that we may not recover from.

Flooding is an issue that has plagued Missouri for decades, and according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, it has worsened, with waterflow rising by almost 20%. New research has shown that wetland destruction may be a factor.

Water Lilies Thrives in wet habitats; one species, the white water lily, is native to Missouri.

RESERVE RESEARCH

2,400

The reserve is a branch of the Missouri Botanical Garden. acres of land are used for conservation.

acres form the wetland complex of the reserve.

the reserve has hosted restoration educational workshops. 2016 Since

CURIOUS?

Scan here for more on the Shaw Nature reserve

“The wetlands were expansive lowlands where, when there was flooding, those areas took the water,” Saxton said. “Now, we’ve built a series of levees, berms and dikes that keep water out. We’ve created human barriers to try to control water, which is not a good strategy. Water always wins.”

However, flooding and climate change are only two parts of a larger picture. Another major concern results from species loss.

“People have gotten the message about the climate crisis, and that’s important, but equally important is the biodiversity crisis,” Saxton said. “They’re linked. We’ve lost species, we continue to lose species and [it is] occurring without anyone noticing.”

This problem, according to Saxton, needs more attention.

“These [species] have inherent value,” Saxton said. “They’ve evolved over millions of years. But we don’t care about what we don’t understand, we don’t love what we don’t care about, we don’t support and protect what we don’t know. If we expose people and have them become knowledgeable, hopefully people will

Wild White Indigo

A fowering plant native to east and north America that thrives in wide, sunny areas.

Photo by Kathy Melton

start caring.”

To Maginel, wetland preservation efforts are vital.

“Anything that we’re doing to recognize and restore communities with biodiversity in mind, those are good steps,” Maginel said. “We’re still extracting without full recognition of what it took to create what we’re extracting. That’s scary to me.”

Outreach and Opportunities

As time ticks and wetlands are destroyed, the need for a biodiverse habitat has proved critical. But government solutions are full of problems, begging the question: how can we move forward?

“At this stage, our natural areas are so fragmented,” Saxton said. “We’ve taken this historic, expansive assemblage of habitats and we’ve converted it to different land uses. We’ve fragmented areas with roads and subdivisions and cities. We’ve introduced invasive plants all over the place. What we can’t do now is put a fence around it and let nature take its course. We have to be active participants in the natural world.”

Organizations like the Shaw Nature Reserve target artificial restoration.

“We are trying to recognize the importance of functioning wetlands and increase the diversity of the ones we’re creating,” Maginel said.

Testing the Waters

The reserve also promotes wetland education; Maginel and his colleagues hope that this will increase awareness.

“The more you know, the harder it is to not care,” Maginel said. “If we can reach people, talk about the importance of [the wetlands], and show not only its beauty, but also what it does for biodiversity, it’s harder to destroy one later.”

There are many ways to help preserve the wetlands, according to Saxton.

“There are a lot of good places [to get involved],” Saxton said. “People will say, ‘I don’t know where a wetland is. I’d have to go 100 miles away.’ No, we have those areas right here in our own backyard. We just have to start looking.”

Photo by Steve Frank llustration by Emily Liu

Farm Fresh

Vendors at The Summit All Seasons Market grow and sell fresh, sustainable products

By Madeline Awad & Josh Devine

Website Editors In Chief

Amish farms.

Wisconsin.

Jars of honey. A pumpkin patch. These seemingly random and unrelated things all intersect in one place: The Summit All Seasons Market. The market magically intertwines all aspects of farm life, offering everything from locally sourced produce to fresh-baked pies - all of which encapsulate the nature of small-scale agriculture. This Kirkwood market is a family-run St. Louis hallmark and hub for locals looking to dive deeper into rural life.

“My grandma started The Summit Fresh Produce Market back in 1978,” Manager Leah Mitchell said. “She just had her own little vendor booth and was really good at selling and making connections so it grew into what it is now.”

Once the market began to expand, connections with local

farmers became a vital part of keeping the shelves stocked. The market focuses on obtaining pro duce primarily in channels out side big box stores and making connections on the local level.

“We have local farms that bring us a majority of our produce,” Produce Aid Brady Stark said. “They pull it right in the back, and we unload it. Mostly Amish farms or local co-ops that we just get on the phone with. We’ve worked with them for years. They bring their trucks and trailers, unload and we receive fresh local produce. We get deliveries about twice a week.”

“

These local connections allow the market to thrive throughout the year. As demand for products continues to flourish, they are always looking for new ways to meet and partner with fresh-grown farms. A culture has developed among local farmers, ensuring everyone can sell their products and benefit from the market.

“A handful of vendors supply a variety of products year-round

We have a lot of Amish farmers that we get things from here locally in Missouri and developed a network of local farmers who get us the best.”

Brady

Stark

Produce Aid

erything you can think of locally.”

The Summit All Seasons Market has evolved to become a staple in the St. Louis Community. Over the seasons, it attracts students, such as Molly Shipley (11), to its many different attractions and offerings throughout the year.

“I love going to the market to look at the new things that they put out,” Shipley said. “My family buys our Christmas tree and pumpkins from there every year. It’s a fun tradition that I hold close to my heart. It’s really cool to see how they change over the year.”

In the modern world, concerns about unsanitary product conditions and harmful toxins on produce are ever-growing. How-

Strawberries

Sourced

The Summit All Seasons market imports fresh produce year-round Locally

Fresh strawberries are imported each week from an Amish farm in rural Missouri. They are kept in moisturewicking paper mache cartons that maintain high quality.

Asparagus

Upon arrival at the market, asparagus is bundled and stored refrigerated or on ice. Though usually a seasonal vegetable, this market stocks it yearround, ensuring it stays in excellent condition.

ever, The Summit Market believes fresh produce should be accessible to all.

“We source from nearby farms as much as possible,” Mitchell said. “Since COVID-19, people prefer cleaner, less processed food. We aim for the most organically grown produce, and while it’s not always easy, we prioritize local options.”

While industrial warehouse stores import their produce globally, The Summit year-round market offers a refreshing and community-oriented alternative, providing a more personal shopping experience.

“It’s really interesting to know where your food is coming from. My mom and I try to go to the market around once a month to stock up on their fresh produce.”

Molly Shipley (11)

With the mass amount of product that they bring in, The Summit Market has refined its system to ensure farm produce stays healthy and sustainable.

“It’s really difficult [to keep everything fresh],” Stark said. “We’ve got two walk-in coolers and several sheds in the back of the market for produce that doesn’t want to be too cold overnight. When it gets really cold, we cover some things to protect them. Each morning, we set everything up, creating organized piles of food to showcase it. Then, at the end of the day, we carefully store it all back to ensure everything remains in top condition.”

The market attracts people from all over the St. Louis area, offering a unique chance to immerse themselves in nature at its finest. Produce, bakery items and freshly preserved jars are meticulously inspected hourly for quality. It is a vibrant place to indulge and truly appreciate the local farm presence, holding deep sentimental value for the Mitchell family.

“My grandma passed the business to my dad and my aunt, and our family legacy has been thriving ever since,” Mitchell said. “It’s a testament to our commitment and hard work. Every year, [the market] expands and evolves, bringing fresh-grown produce to as many people as we can. We are dedicated to strengthening our community and ensuring everyone has access to the highest quality food that reflects our business and values.”

Peppers

Peppers are a year-round staple in The Summit All Seasons Market. Coming from St. Louis Amish farms and co-ops, the peppers are delivered weekly by the crate.

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TOP: A vibrant assortment of pumpkins and gourds spread across a farm stand. With the arrival of colder autumn weather, seasonal produce like squash, pumpkins and apples gradually replaced summer fruits and vegetables. “We get stuf from all over the place, and just know a lot of diferent farmers around the country who get us the best,” Produce Aid Brady Stark said.

MIDDLE: The market is adorned with vibrant jars of pickles, jams and relishes line the shelves at the market, coming from the rich harvest of preserved local produce. The market prides itself on selling products from trusted farms and vendors in the community. “We build the relationship and see how things go frst,” Manager Leah Mitchell said.

BOTTOM: Rows of produce, freshly picked from local orchards, line up ready for customers. As the local growing season ends, fall produce like peppers and tomatoes become more prominent. “When it gets colder in the fall, we do more local pumpkins and mums and jarred goods, and our pies are local,” Stark said. (Photos by Madeline Awad)

Fish Frenzy

Science teacher Adam Durham’s fsh tank creates exciting classroom environment

Fake Plants

Used in the tank to provide areas for fsh to swim and hide in. They are durable to digging and eating by the fsh.

Silver Dollar

A fat, silver fsh that can have a slight green or blue tint. They live best in groups of six or more.

Underwater Structures

Used to provide visual appeal. In addition, they create shelter for the fsh and encourage natural behavior.

Blue Acara Cichlid

A stocky fsh ranging between 13-16 cm. They can live up to 10 years if cared for properly.

Fishing Tales

What is your favorite fshing memory?

Leo Denman (12)

“The best days are when something clicks and you catch every fsh, so it is an overall great, awesome fshing day.”

Zoe Coleman (9)

“I fshed over the summer at my sleepaway camp and I won a fshing award. It was one of the best times of my life.”

Gold Severum Cichlid

A yellow-gold fsh with red spotting. The fsh is typically calm but can become territorial depending on personality.

ABOVE: Science teacher Adam Durham’s fish tank flourishes. 15 years ago, Durham bought the tank to implement aspects of life, nature and biology into his classroom. “When I got the fish, I researched them,” Durham said. “They are really big, hardy fish. They live to be 20, so it’s a commitment.”

Sabra Fink (11)

“One time me and my sister went fshing with my uncle and mom, and my sister fell into the fshing area we were in.”

Ben Winograd (9)

“I have been fshing in the sea a few times and we caught sharks. It was a challenge getting the shark in the boat.”

Photo by Vincent Hsiao

Fittonia

Also known as the nerve plant or mosaic plant, fttonias are a small evergreen plant ranging from a height of three to six inches that are usually grown in a pot. The species of fttonia often have diferent colored veins, ranging from red to green to the most popular choice of silvery-white. Unlike many other plants, fttonia are not toxic to common housepets.

Ti Plant

Ti plants are evergreen plants that can be grown both in tropical climates or as a potted houseplant. They have large palm-like leaves and may produce small star-shaped forets. Ti plants are sensitive to fuoride, so it is recommended to water them with rainwater or distilled water. In addition, they’re toxic to both humans and pets.

Pothos

Dracaena

Grown for their attractive foliage, dracaenas are a popular choice for an indoor plant. They can be variegated or colorful depending on their species and also require little care as they tolerate various sunlight and watering conditions. In tropical climates, dracaena can grow up to 20 feet tall, but indoors dracaena will remain under 8 feet. Just like many other plants, dracaenas are toxic to dogs and cats.

Pothos are an excellent choice for beginner indoor gardeners. They improve air quality by removing common toxins and also have great versatility. There are a variety of colorful species, and pothos can be planted in a pot or as a hanging plant. Unfortunately, pothos are toxic to pets when ingested, so be careful if cats or dogs are near them.

Bird-of-Paradise

Named for its resemblance to the similarly named tropical bird, bird-of-paradise plants are fast-growing tropical plants that can be planted both indoors and outdoors, depending on the season. They typically fower in the late winter or early spring and range from 12 to 18 inches. Due to the tannin-containing seeds and hydrocyanic acid on the leaves, these plants are also toxic to common housepets.

equivalent to 2.5 fuid ounces of water every week sunlight necessary relative to other plants

Indoor Jungle

Sources: greg.app, My City Plants, The Spruce, Bloombox Club, HGTV, cstvsh.com

Photos by Vincent Hsiao

Practical arts teacher

Charles Harrison hunts for food and sport. He started hunting at 17 but stopped when he joined the Marine Corps. He later rediscovered his passion for hunting. "[I like] just watching how the seasons change and how animals grow and how they react,"Harrison said. "You see them in their natural habitat."

On the Hunt

Practical arts teacher Charles Harrison develops passion for hunting

By Cindy Liu

News Editor

While most people are still waking up or asleep early Saturday morning, only a few have been up for much longer. Among these early risers are hunters, who get up before dawn to travel to their destination, set up their equipment and prepare for a long day of waiting. Practical arts teacher Charles Harrison is one of many in the Ladue community who hunt for both food and sport.

It can be difficult to point out an exact moment when one realizes they have a passion for a sport, but oftentimes for hunters, it’s getting their first animal. Harrison, who began hunting 15 years ago, discovered his passion for hunting on one of his earlier trips.

“I was with my brother-inlaw since I hadn't hunted since I was 17 years old,” Harrison said. “We went out, I shot at a deer. We

found a little bit of blood, but we couldn't find the deer. I was completely hooked.”

Hunting is often something that many people are taught from childhood instead of picking it up naturally. Harrison learned the basics from his dad, but much of what he learned was self taught. Now, he teaches his skills to his daughter and nephew.

“I went out a couple times with my dad to make sure I knew what I was doing. Now, it's a tradition that my brother-in-law and I have done [with our kids].”

Charles Harrison Practical arts teacher

HUNTING CHECKLIST

But sharing this tradition with his family comes in more ways than the trip itself. Even the events following the trip have become treasured experiences for Harrison.

“During the shotgun deer season, all of the family comes out to our house,” Harrison said. “We have a shed, so everybody just hangs out while we take care of deer. We have appetizers and snacks and all that kind of stuff.”

Theodosiou's (10) hunting

Hunting trips have now become a family bonding activity.

Although nature has such a large role in hunting, it can be easy to disregard it in the moment. When Harrison looks back on past hunting trips, he finds that simply watching the sunrise helps him feel connected to nature.

“I love being in the woods, especially morning hunting,” Harrison said. “When you go out, it's dark and the sun starts to come up, the woods start to wake up and the birds and other critters are running around. It's a great way to be out in the woods and enjoy creation.” P

RIGHT:

(Photos by Isak Taylor)

SCENT SPRAY

HUNTING WHISTLE

In Command

Staf By Emily Pan

Chatter between the rowers scurry back and forth at the dock fills the air.

For the varsity junior members of the St. Louis Rowing Club, James Palanca (12) assumes leadership of the role called the coxswain.

“A coxswain is like the captain of the boat,” Palanca said. “The tempo of the stroke, race plan, getting eight guys to match up in the most effective manner.”

During the school year, Palanca practices six days a week, averaging around 20 hours at the boathouse. He watches videos of the best coxswains giving their commands and implements their tactics into his practice.

James Palanca (12) discovers his passion of coxswaining in the Youth Rowing National Championships

“James has one of the [best] work ethics I’ve met,” teammate Will Yin (11) said. “If he isn’t the best at something, he is going to work as hard as he can to get to whatever goal he’s at. He’s always trying to outwork everybody.”

One experience that Palanca recalls was his opportunity to coxswain top rowers in the nation during his freshman year. This experience molded Palanca to be a better rounded rower.

“Being able to handle the pressure and cox these youth Olympians, I feel like it [was] a very defining moment,” Palanca said.

“I’m very grateful for them helping mold me and it’s kind of why I support the pressure.”

Throughout the year, Palanca consistently pushes himself to his limits. His motivation is that he knows that all the hard work he puts in will translate to the critical moments during a race.

“It’s pressuring when the difference between getting gold can be tenths or hundredths of a second,” Palanca said. “You put your whole year into this. I want the challenge of [taking] on as much as I can because I’m confident in my ability to help the boat.”

On water, Palanca is able to display his leadership by giving com-

PALANCA’S PROWESS

12

Palanca and his fellow members placed Palanca started rowing fall of seventh grade at the age of

20th

mands of how to adjust the boat. Off water, Palanca gives his fellow teammates advice and finds ways to connect to them.

“He’s always trying to get [us] involved,” teammate Ritwik Ashok said. “[For example] working out together, or things to improve [our technique].”

The sense of community he has felt from SLRC has fueled his desire to be the best. In high school he has been able to expand beyond local competitions, and he plans to continue rowing collegiately.

“I’m very passionate about winning,” Palanca said. “I got recruited for [coxswaining] and at the international level representing the United States.”

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Scan here to learn more about the St. Louis Rowing Club

Palanca continues to learn new strategies to improve his skillset as a coxswain. He has also established his true motivation for why he continues to push himself.

“The driver for me [for] rowing is myself,” Palanca said. “It’s gotten to the point where I’m not doing it for other people.”

FAR LEFT: James Palanca (12) gives a thumbs up to indicate that he heard his coach. Palanca is in the same boat as Tripp Jones (12) and Will Yin (11).“[Rowing is] beautiful but it’s [also] a technical sport,” Palanca said.

LEFT: Palanca stares ahead at Yin and the other rowers. When Palanca was a novice, he T-boned a boat and his coaches helped to improve his steering. “He steers the boat and tells us what to do,” Yin said.

(Photos by Lathan Levy)

(Photo illustration by Derdoy)

Hinz on the Rise

Will Hinz (11) displays his passion for climbing

By Victoria Derdoy

Staf

Will Hinz (11) steps into the climbing gym, lays his bag down and slips on his climbing shoes. As sunlight shines through the window, Hinz rubs his chalky hands together, takes a deep breath and approaches the wall, ready to take on his next challenge.

Hinz began rock climbing at age 9, after being inspired by a neighbor. What began as a casual activity quickly evolved into a passionate commitment. Hinz now finds himself training four to five times a week at Upper Limits, and has competed at both regional and national competitions.

“Once I started competing, I started doing really well and got sucked into it,” Hinz said. “I remember one year specifically, I had a bad performance at regionals, and then I [realized] if I want to be serious, I [had] to lock in and turn it up a bit.”

In addition to Hinz’s physical preparation, he notes some important mental techniques as well. He focuses on keeping a positive mindset by meditating before competitions and continuously works on stretching and flexibility.

“Being present in moments of execution is super important,” Hinz said. “A huge part of performance in climbing is having a positive mindset, which is a technique you work on and refine.”

Hinz’s commitment to his physical and mental preparation has paid off, as he has competed at the national level six times. Despite hitting a two-year rough patch where he did not qualify, the grind did not stop. This past season, Hinz won divisionals, out of only nine divisions in the entire country.

“With any sport, there’s going to be challenges to get to the top level [and]

it’s super difficult,” Hinz said. “The hardest part for me is understanding that I’m on my own path and I’m on my own journey. If I do what I’m supposed to do, maintain a positive attitude and believe in myself, then I’m [going to] get to where I want to be.”

Although climbing is an individual sport, the climbing community is very close-knit and focuses on being supportive and uplifting each other. Having traveled to many states and meeting people from all over the country, Hinz cherishes the positive climbing community and the lifelong friendships he’s built. In addition to these out of town friendships, although Hinz and Dorian Bunic (11) didn’t initially meet through climbing, they have gotten closer from spending hours together training, competing or just hanging out. Bunic admires Hinz’s determination and resilience.

Dorian Bunic (11)

With every day, Hinz continues to set new goals and standards for himself, as well as learn new lessons. He would like to someday compete at a World Cup, and with his positive outlook and dedication, he’s not just climbing walls, but reaching new heights in life.

“[Climbing] is my passion, and it’s what I love,” Hinz said. “I’ve learned to be more present and grateful, [and] that results come with hard work.” P “No matter what gets thrown in his way he always has a positive outlook. He takes every failure and turns it into an opportunity for learning and growth.”

Will Hinz (11) climbs at Wild Iris Climbing Area in Lander, Wyoming. Hinz has traveled to over six states for climbing. “I have a bunch of friends in the East Coast because we see each other once a year at nationals,” Hinz said.

(Photo illustration by Brennan Robinson and Victoria Derdoy.)

Into the Outdoors

Two of the best spots to spend time while in nature

By Medha Chode

Staf

Photos by Vincent Hsiao

1. Forest Park

Forest Park is a beautiful location in St. Louis to spend time and explore nature. With 1,300 acres and tons of activities, it is a great place to be outside and relax. It is one of the biggest urban parks in the U.S., surpassing Central Park in New York. Things to do include archery, ice skating, handball and golfing. One of the most popular places inside the park is the Saint Louis Zoo, which has loads of fun pastimes like a 4D theater, small railroad, playground, unique animals, shows, a carousel and interactive exhibits. It is a great place to go when the weather is nice. Stay in season by taking pictures with the beautiful fall foliage in Forest Park. It is open from 6 a.m. - 10 p.m. every day of the week. Forest Park is a great place to get outdoors and enjoy the fresh air.

2. Larson Park

Although lesser known, Larson Park is a lovely spot with lots of things to do. Located in Webster Groves, it is only an 11 minute drive from Ladue High School. It’s a wonderful place to spend time outdoors after a long day at school. The park is open all days of the week, 6 a.m. - 11 p.m.

Larson Park has a large pavilion, ballfields, tennis courts and playground. Not only is it a nice, quiet place to unwind alone, it’s great for spending time with friends and family. Although it is much smaller than Forest Park, this is still a great park in St. Louis. Larson Park tends to be much less crowded, while still having quite a few enjoyable activities. All in all, Larson Park is an amazing place to be outside in nature.

Eyes on the Skies

English teacher Emma Lawson shares her experience with birdwatching

By Sara Rohatgi

Appreciating

Editor

The leaves rustle, the air whistles and English teacher Emma Law son stands quietly on a river bank, binoculars poised, eyes scanning the trees as she listenes intently to the trills echoing through the air. Focused entirely on the birds around her, she pa tiently waits.

“I think my ‘spark bird moment’ came in college,” Lawson said. “I saw an indigo bunting, and I was so desperate to figure out what that bird was. I became really fascinated.”

Though Lawson had always cared about birding, her interest in birds grew during the pandemic.

“With many people, [birdwatching] picked up more during COVID-19,” Lawson said. “I had more to focus on birding, and it’s become something that I love doing.”

Now, Lawson regularly joins bird walks organized by Wild Birds Unlimit ed in Warson Woods.

“It’s a smaller, more experienced group,” Lawson said. “We’ve gone from West Alton to parks in South County. It’s a great way to learn from people who have been birding for years.”

While experience is invaluable, Law son reminds newcomers to embrace birding without pressure.

“Don’t take it too seriously,” Lawson said. “It can be intimidating, but don’t be afraid to explore on your own.”

Sky Guide

Constellation Information

Leo

Leo is one of the 13 zodiac constellations and one of the largest in the northern sky, especially in the fall. Leo represents a lion and is often times associated with Greek mythology.

of stars is on the celestial equator so it is one of the few constellations that can be seen all over the world.

Pisces is another one of the 13 zodiac constellations. The name “Pisces” is the Latin plural for “fsh.” Though it is fairly large, the stars that form it are faint, making it hard to see with the naked eye.

Cassiopeia Cygnus

Swan

recognizable constellations in the northern hemisphere. This constellation’s name, “Cygnus,” originated from the Latinized Greek word for swan. mythology. The best time for viewing starts in late fall, so now is the perfect time to take a look.

Stellar Night Views

A look at stargazing, one of the night’s most beautiful experiences

By Jay Heintz

Associate Editor

Finding peace and solitude is a difficult task, but one good pastime for when you are alone is stargazing. Once the sun goes down, searching for constellations and using them to map the sky can give you something to do for hours.

It can be hard to be a homebody when most of your peers are enjoying a night out with friends, but bundling up on a blanket in the grass and appreciating the stars is a quick remedy to feeling excluded. Being in a peaceful and comfortable place with a beautiful background makes stargazing an easy activity to enjoy and romanticize.

Stargazing is also immensely beneficial for cultivating mindfulness. On a stressful night, the mere act of looking up can alleviate anxieties and quiet the mind. After all, it’s hard to think about other things when the beauty of the universe is right before your eyes.

Though the peaceful aspect of stargazing is more achievable when alone, you can also invite friends to share the silhouettes made by the stars. With mugs full of hot chocolate and marshmallows roasting on a bonfire, a late night picnic is a great way to spend a night in.

Whether you are alone or with loved ones, stargazing is a relaxing way to take advantage of the darkness. When most opportunities for nature lovers are during the day, this hobby is an amazing addition to the average night owl’s agenda.

Illustration by Jay Heintz

Photo by Vincent Hsaio

Panorama Perspective

Photo by Vincent Hsiao

CURIOUS?

Scan here for an audio recording of the editorial

Ladue residents should educate themselves on elected ofcials and measures that impact the local community

23 OUT OF 23 LADUE PUBLICATIONS EDITORS AGREE

Whether someone’s political information comes from news, social media or word of mouth, most of it likely pertains to one topic: the presidential election. With how close the race is and the strong sentiments from both sides, it’s logical for the presidential race to generate some attention. What isn’t logical, however, are the limited opinions regarding local elections and measures that directly affect our respective lives.

The president’s job is to preside over the United States, not local communities. To the next president, a Ladue student is just one of the 17.3 million high school students listed in the 2021 Census. To the next president, St. Louis County is just one of over 3,000 nationwide counties. To the next president, Missouri is just one of 50 states.

Locally, Missouri has key state and national congress races that will be decided at the Nov. 5 general election. In addition, other significant elections and measures, including the governor’s race along with Propositions 2 and 3, are also to be decided Nov. 5. Unlike the presidential race, these determine how Missouri is represented, along with the state of local education, infrastructure and economics.

One of the most prominent issues in local elections is the lack of people exercising their right to vote. According to Pew Research Center, 66% of eligible voters voted in the 2020 general election, compared to 46% turnout in the 2022 midterm elections.

This 20% decrease when the presidency isn’t on the ballot reflects a lack of care for local elections. When people opt to save a little time instead of voting locally, they sacrifice their right and ability to directly impact their local community.

Then, there is uninformed voting in local elections. Often, people neglect doing their own research and instead vote along the party line. There is no issue using political allegiances to guide one’s vote as a candidates party often signifies what they stand for, helping voters distiguish between candidates. However, going all blue or all red without batting an eye is very problematic. Not all Democrats are alike, nor are all Republicans. Every candidate has specific opinions, experiences and qualities that define them. Reducing what the candidates stand for simply to a party isn’t a recipe for the most qualified candidates elected.

These problems have one simple solution: a communal commitment to being educated. While educating oneself on local elections may seem difficult, it really isn’t too demanding. Local news, social media and conversing with knowledgeable community members are all effective and painless methods to educate oneself. Additionally, ballotpedia.org offers nonpartisan descriptions of candidates and measures in local elections, which is a good way to immerse oneself in community-oriented issues. Prioritizing this research ensures participation in local elections, which is key due to these elections’ significant impact on our communities.

Editorial Note: Each editorial, Panorama selects an issue that the staf thinks is important to address and expresses a view that belongs to the majority of the staf. Panorama welcomes the opinions of its readers and encourages letters to the editors. Panorama reserves the right to revise submissions for length as long as original intent remains unaltered.

SOMETHING TO ADD?

Scan here for more on letters to the editor, guest essays, submitting corrections and the full editorial policy

A United Conversation

Panorama staf dives into the debates that have flled the U.S. political landscape

Electoral Discourse

EBy Nyla Weathersby

Staf Manager

very election year, the Electoral College– the system that elects the president and vice president– becomes a hot topic of discussion. Since our nation was born, more than 700 proposals have been made to Congress to either change or eliminate the Electoral College. Over the years, people have had various

Civil Debate

NBy Josie Stout

Staf

asty glares, blatant lies and rude interruptions plagued the presidential debate between former president Donald Trump and Vice President Kamala Harris during what was supposed to be a respectful display of policy. While civil discourse is often encouraged, recent presidential debates showed how even potential presidents couldn’t keep their civility. Discussions often turn rash and explosive not just in political debates, but in anything from familial debates to arguments on-

reasons for arguing for the abolishment of the Electoral College. Some of the most popular arguments include the belief that the popular vote should determine the presiden, concerns about giving too much power to swing states and the feeling that individual votes don’t matter in states that consistently lean towards a particular party. In today’s world, it’s clear that this process is both outdated and undemocratic. The Electoral College is in desperate need of reforming, and two states have already led the way.

In Maine and Nebraska, the electoral votes are split using the Congressional District Method. Under this method, two electoral

line. If people chose to approach arguments with the goal of simply learning and growing, a middle ground might be found.

It’s not common for facts to change someone’s mind. Ironically, this is because the approach to debating is almost always to do so. No matter how well prepared or thought out the argument is, it’s near impossible to change the mind of someone with a very strong predetermined idea about a topic. Attempts to change a person’s mind can easily be mistaken for a dig at one’s character or morals, which leads to the unraveling of the discussion.

But, things would change if people went to discussions with the desire to learn, rather than to change someone’s mind. Open minds go hand in hand with open hearts and the overall discussion

votes are awarded to the popular vote winner of the entire state. The remaining electoral votes are given to the plurality winner of each U.S. House of Representatives district. This allows state’s residents to be heard in the Electoral College system.

According to the Pew Research Center, 63% of Americans believe it’s well past time for a change to the Electoral College, opting for the President to be someone who wins the popular vote. We can’t call the United States a democracy when American voices aren’t being heard. The Electoral College is overdue for change, and the Congressional District Method is paving the way.

carries a more empathetic and understanding tone.

Beyond that, willingness to learn naturally invites deeper thinking and criticism of learned ideas. Civil debate provides opportunites to grow and refine arguments. People being able to look at their own world view and apply what someone else has said in contrast to it is a skill that fosters educated opinions. Panorama surveyed 308 students and found that 90.6% of students said that civil debate is important for educated decison making.

In today’s divided world, finding a middle ground about a topic is seemingly impossible. But, if we all considered reframing how we approach discussions, fuel our arguments with compassion and a desire to learn, we might all have better luck getting along.

Illustration by Kelly Zhang

Tax Inequality

Tax laws need to be stricter on big corporations and the ultra wealthy

EBy Grace Kweon

Opinions Editor

veryone you know likely pays their fair share of taxes, but what about the nation’s biggest corporations? All corporations are taxed at a rate of 21%, yet due to tax loopholes, refunds and lobbying politicians to lower tax rates, over 80 companies paid less than 10% in taxes this year. The nation’s millionaires and billionaires evade more

than $150 billion a year in taxes. But as they thwart billions from the federal government, the everyday people suffer.

While tax evasion increases corporate profit and individual wealth, it harms the federal government and the economy by creating a budget deficit, decreasing revenue and increasing wealth inequality. That $150 billion could have gone to improving or strengthening resources everyday Americans rely on, such as education, healthcare and social security. More budget cuts are on their way, too, through Project 2025.

Project 2025 is the Heritage Foundation’s guide for the next Republican president. It plans to introduce tax cuts for the wealthy, federal budget cuts and the abolishment of government-funded divisions like the national bank, education, healthcare, security, climate change and debt relief. Federal budget cuts last year made it harder for families to afford child care, students to receive federal student aid and the

MORE TO KNOW

43% of students believe tax evasion should be acknowledged as a prevalent issue in society.

CURIOUS?

IRS to enforce and regulate tax laws. Project 2025 would be fatal to lower class Americans as it would eliminate the welfare programs they rely on.

VERIFIED Scan here for sources

Wealth inequality is an issue affecting nearly everyone. Every year, a small group of billionaires and big corporations take larger and larger shares of wealth, leaving the majority, low and middle-class with less and less. This consolidation of power at the top endangers economic democracy in the United States. Big corporations can and do spend millions to retain their hold of the political sphere in their hands, blocking regulatory legislature and pushing for profitable benefits that often hurt the common people. It’s like they have a special vote button only they can use, except it’s a million times more effective.

Panorama surveyed 330 students Oct. 22

But there is power in the majority. Support those who say no to all forms of tax evasion– whether it be federal budget cuts on welfare programs or tax cuts for corporations and the wealthy.

Scan here to listen to the story

Illustration by Fiona Van Allen

Ladue in Focus

Students and staf refect on politics, the election and the future

Describe the Election in One Word.

“Tense.” “Important.” “Funny.” “Nail-biter.” “Concerning.” “Polarized.” “Exciting.”

By Celina Zhou

In-Depth Editor

One of the greatest strengths of democracy is giving people a voice, whether through voting, polling, rallies or protests. However, in the masses, the voice of a single person can be drowned out by the force of the people.

To discuss politics, Panorama created a focus group of students and staff. One of the questions we asked was, “Do you think your voice is heard in politics?”

Students reported a sense of voicelessness as minors, despite being drastically affected by politics. Staff described feeling neglected in Missouri, a deeply partisan state, as media hones in on swing states.

In a polarized world, the focus group spoke about their fears

What’s One Issue That’s Important to You on the Ballot in November?

stemming from national division, keeping an open mind and engaging with people across the political spectrum. From disagreements at the dinner table to anxieties during debates and fears about the future, all described a want to bridge these divisive gaps. Some were frustrated with systems like the electoral college, the opacity of the political process and what they perceived as the self-serving tendencies of politicians, culminating in a general hesitance towards wholly trusting the government. Most of the focus group described their attitudes towards the future as cautiously optimistic, detailing the need to, at the very least, make an effort to make change.

CURIOUS?

Scan here to read the full participant interviews

Participants

Mina F. Jennifer H. Danielle C. Shana B.

Chloe L.

Emma L.

Illustration by Kelly Zhang

Charles R.

Chloe L.

and gun laws.”

Emma L.

environment.”

Alex Z. “Infation.”

Charles R., 18

Emma L., 30 Chloe L., 16

Ayden H., 15

Shana B., 37

Mina F., 17

Jennifer H., 47

Gabriella B., 15

Alex Z., 15

Danielle C., 18

Jacari H., 18

Henry M., 14

Name, age

Do You Have Any Hopes or Fears Surrounding the Election?

Gabriella B.

“I really hope it just gets better and more fair. I think the backlash, party-toparty, should just try to be as considerate as possible.”

Do You Trust Politicians?

Ayden H.

“No. They always have a motive. There’s been a lot of corruption scandals recently, too. Like with George Santos and Eric Adams.”

Mina F.

“Not really. Sometimes politicians get caught up in winning over the people instead of thinking about what’s going to better our country.”

Shana B. “I don’t know if I really think about it that way. Just because someone’s a politician doesn’t make them any more or less trustworthy than anyone else.”

“I hope that whoever wins, they’ll at least be more competent than previous presidents.”

Jacari H.

“My biggest fear is that whoever wins will just let resources go to waste and not try to help the world.”

Is Your Voice Is Heard In Politics?

Henry M.

“No, of course not. Electoral college-wise, no Democrat in Missouri or any red state really has infuence on politics.”

Danielle C.

“No. If I went on the internet and talked about my views on politics, I don’t think anyone would care. If you’re not famous, then you probably won’t get heard.”

Jennifer H.

“Yeah, because I make sure to vote, all up and down, every single election.”

What Is the Biggest Challenge Facing Us as a Country?

Gabriella B.

“Having older people in the government.”

Emma L.

“The pettiness of politics. The ‘us versus them’ mentality.”

Jennifer H.

“Getting a shared sense of what’s true and what isn’t.”

Charles R.

“Making sure we have a strong middle class.”

Danielle C.

“We’re in debt. Like, crazy, trillions of dollars debt.

Are You Optimistic for the Future?

Chloe L. Henry M. Jacari H.

Charles R. Alex Z.

Mina F.

Ayden H.

Gabriella B.

Key Players

Candidates for U.S. House of Representatives in Missouri’s frst three districts

8-9.

District 1 Representative (R)

Issues: Education, economy, crime, immigration

Wesley Bell

District 1 Representative (D)

Issues: Gun reforms, pro-choice movement, climate change, healthcare

Ann Wagner

District 2 Representative (R)

Issues: Budgeting, national security, energy, education

Ray Hartmann

District 2 Representative (D)

Issues: Common sense gun control, women’s rights, queer rights, public safety

Bob Onder

District 3 Representative (R)

Issues: Immigration, prolife movement, gun rights, taxation

Bethany Mann

District 3 Representative (D)

Issues: Educational funding, infrastructure, healthcare, prochoice movement

In some cases, one difficulty that stems from looking for solutions is a loss of nuance.

“[For example], the way we talk about poverty, it’s like, ‘If we just give more foreign aid to Africa, they can develop the same way that we did,’ as if America doesn’t rely on cheap labor from impoverished countries,” Yang said. “A lot of the rhetoric that [Generation] Z engages in is vulnerable to contributing to rather than dismantling hegemonic ideas.”

Engagement

Much of the rhetoric surrounding young people in politics is that of a lack of involvement, but some believe otherwise.

“I’m always impressed by the amount of awareness that my students exhibit in the classroom,” social studies teacher Mike Hill said. “They’re not just exposed to lots of streams of information, but they pay attention to them. Older generations think [young people just look at] their phones. To those people, I say, ‘Have you seen TikTok? It’s a learning channel.’”

Though social media can be a resource for information intake, making change directly through social media can be limiting.

“People care about politics, but a lot of them direct their energy into Instagram and that’s meaningless,” Hammerman said. “Legislator’s care about your opinion but they are not looking at social media. If you want them to hear your opinion, tell them.”

Local legislators, in particular, are easily accessible by their constituents, but that accessibility isn’t taken advantage of. According to Missouri’s 2022 Voter Turnout Report, which reports the highest turnout in each county, no turnout rate surpassed 60%.

“Elected city councils handle trash pickup, snow plowing, tak-

ing care of the parks, [and] that’s all important,” Ladue Mayor Nancy Spewak said. “Those are all people that are [locally elected], and those elections have very low turnout. When you think about the things that really can impact your day to day, very few voters are even picking those folks.”

Low voter turnout is an issue because voting is often seen as the most effective way for voices to be heard.

“The avenue that you are given to change is through the vote. Whether you think that matters is inconsequential. If you don’t vote, then you shut of any and all possibilities for your vote to make any salient change.”

Mike Hill Social studies teacher

To others, though, honing in on voting allows governments and politicians to restrict the scope of what political movements can even look like.

“They didn’t vote the abolitionist movement into existence,” Yang said. “They didn’t vote the gay rights movement into existence. [The movements] existed first and then pressured government into doing things. It was because there were people on the ground grinding civil society to a halt. That’s the politics that’s most effective at creating real change.”

While Americans grapple with making change inside and outside the system, the presence of politics is immutable. Engaging in it is often not a choice but a given.

Andrew Jones Jr.

Third party candidates not included. For more information on other candidates, see Election pages

Illustration by Meg Myckatyn

Polling on Politics

Statistics on local voter turnout and opinions toward government

“Whether you’re interested in politics or not, politics is interested in you,” McCreery said. “These politicians are going to do things that impact your life. We don’t have an option to disengage from things right now. It’s our obligation as [citizens] to find a way to be engaged.”

The question remains on whether politics can be boiled down to voting, policy and bureaucracy or whether it encompasses broader social movements. Many agree that the current bureaucracy requires change, but obstacles can prevent this.

“History has taught us that systems are systemically opposed to change,” St. Louis County Prosecutor Wesley Bell said. “It’s not just the policies; it’s the entities and the stakeholders who have made careers off of them.”

This raises the dilemma: If the system itself is resistant to all forms of change, is reform from within enough to address issues of self-interest?

“The political rhetoric that we employ has obviously been made to sustain the world we live in,” Yang said. “People never say it’s

MORE TO KNOW

30.5% of registered voters voted in the 2024 August primary in Saint Louis County.

People living in mostly white areas are

more likely to vote than those living in mostly black areas.

a problem with the system. It’s always a problem that needs to be fixed within the system. [People say] it’s not a fundamental flaw, it’s just a temporary issue.”

Frustration with government is becoming increasingly common. 58% of Americans aren’t satisfied with the way democracy is working out according to the Pew Research Center. Yet, for many, the idea of radically rethinking the entire system is idealistic.

“The system of government is not going anywhere,” Bell said. “Some folks will say, ‘We need to just tear it down, start over.’ That sounds great, but it’s not happening. If you’re not at the table, you’re on the menu. Decisions are going to be made. If you choose not to be part of them, those decisions will be made for you.”

However, by soley focusing on how to navigate within the current framework, discussions about more extensive changes can be prematurely dismissed.

Sources: Ballotpedia, Fox2Now, St Louis County Board of Elections, STLOUISMO.gov,

“We’re degrading thinking by saying words [like socialism] are scary, ” Barnes said. “People throw away the option to talk or think about [alternatives] because it’s too hard. We need to think about the confines of what

we view as realistic and whether [that’s] defined by us or just prescribed by prior thinking.”

Others think that another issue with working inside of the system is hyper-focused ideas of where progress comes from.

“The end of our political horizons is just more innovation,” Yang said. “It falls within these barriers we’ve constructed, where we always maximize productivity, or else the whole system crumbles. [The current] rhetoric about the climate, where we should let scientists solve it is a symptom of the broader ideology [made] to uphold our current society.”

The responsibility of expanding perspectives is a trying task. But in an individual approach, there are still opportunities for change. Movements, whether radical or moderate, start with just a few people.

“I think people need to talk more,” Barnes said. “That’s the only way our political horizons will ever expand. It’s really an actual protest to care. The system wants you to be cynical and act as if it’s the only option and you can’t do anything about it. [Even] just thinking about this stuff, talking about it, that’s caring.”

At the Crossroads

The government’s ability to make change is called into question during periods of transition

By Alzhraa Mahmoud & Celina Zhou Staf

In-Depth Editors

In arenas across the country, crowds rally; the air is heavy with heat and breath, the warmth of bodies close together with anticipation, and the skyline is crowded with signs. This, here and now, with these people and their voices pressing into a feverish pitch. To them, this is where the difference is made. They say, “This is history in the making.”

Two miles down the street, a local candidate knocks on doors. Most remain closed, but in their mind, every opened door is a spark of hope. Next door, a teenager rants in a group chat with friends about the broken system.

The heart of politics is this — change. Government is often seen as the only way to make change, but in the midst of an election, many have begun to stray from this path, believing that progress can only come from working outside the system or rebuilding it. Today, the power of politics is front and center, raising a crucial question: Does the system work — and, if not, how do we fix it?

Problems in Politics

The current government, though longstanding, is far from immune to problems.

“It’s hard for voters that want to stay informed to find coverage of things that are happening locally,” Missouri State Senator Tracy McCreery said. “A lot of the trusted newspapers and radio stations

By Isaac Zelinske

District 1

Oakville, Mehlville, Webster Groves

State Senator Incumbent

Doug Beck (D)

State Senator Candidate Robert Crump (R)

US House Incumbent Cori Bush

US House

Candidates

Wesley Bell (D)

Andrew Jones Jr. (R)

Blake Ashby (B)

Don Fitz (G)

Rochelle Riggins (L)

Representative Ann Wagner of the second congressional district has been noted for her changing position on former President Donald Trump Having previously both endorsed and denounced him, she currently endorses him.

District 2

Western St. Charles US House

Incumbent

Ann Wagner

State Senator Incumbent

Nick Schroer (R)

State Senator Candidate N/A

District 4

US House

Candidates

Ray Hartmann (D)

Shelby Davis (G)

Brandon Daugherty (L)

Clayton, Brentwood, Richmond Heights

State Senator Incumbent

Karla May (D)

State Senator Candidate N/A

US House Incumbent Cori Bush

US House Candidates

Wesley Bell (D)

Andrew Jones Jr. (R)

Blake Ashby (B)

Don Fitz (G)

Rochelle Riggins (L)

Party Key

Democratic (D)

Republican (R)

Better Party (B)

Libertarian (L) Green (G)

District 5

St. Louis City US House Incumbent

State Senator Incumbent

Steve Roberts (D)

State Senator Candidate

Robert Vroman (R)

Cori Bush

US House

Candidates

Wesley Bell (D)

Andrew Jones Jr. (R)

Blake Ashby (B)

Don Fitz (G)

Rochelle Riggins (L)

District 13

Jennings, Bellefontaine, Florrissant

State Senator Incumbent

Angela Mosley (D)

US House Incumbent

State Senator Candidate N/A

US House

Candidates

Bethany Mann (D)

Bob Onder (R)

William Hastings (G)

Jordan Rowden (L)

Blaine Luetkemeyer

District 14

Olivette, University City, Ferguson, Edmunton, Hazelwood

State Senator Incumbent

Brian Williams (D)

State Senator Candidate N/A

District 15

Representative Blaine Luetkemeyer, having been the U.S. House Representative for Missouri’s third congressional district since 2013, chose not to run for reelection in 2024. 23 13 4 1 5 14 24

US House Incumbent

Ann Wagner (R)

US House Candidates

Ray Hartmann (D)

Shelby Davis (G)

Brandon Daugherty (L)

Manchester, Ballwin, Chesterfeld, Town & Country, Wildwood

State Senator Incumbent

Andrew Koenig (R)

State Senator Candidates

Joe Pereles (D)

David Gregory (R)

Jef Coleman (L)

US House Incumbent

Ann Wagner (R)

US House Candidates

Ray Hartmann (D)

Shelby Davis (G)

Brandon Daugherty (L)

Representative Cori Bush was defeated in the democratic primary of the frst congressional district by Wesley Bell, supported by $8.5 million in funds from pro-Israel group AIPAC.

District 23

Manchester, Ballwin, Chesterfeld, Town & Country, Wildwood

US House Incumbent

Ann Wagner (R)

State Senator Incumbent

Andrew Koenig (R)

State Senator Candidates

Joe Pereles (D)

David Gregory (R)

Jef Coleman (L)

District 24

Manchester, Ballwin, Chesterfeld, Town & Country, Wildwood

State Senator Incumbent

Andrew Koenig (R)

State Senator Candidates

Joe Pereles (D)

David Gregory (R)

Jef Coleman (L)

have suffered tough times financially, and have ended up cutting staff [and] reporters. “

According to a July 2024 Pew Research Center study, 17% of Americans between the ages of 30 and 49 often receive local political news from their local news station. Young people are especially vulnerable to this lack of coverage: only 12% of people aged 18 and 29 receive local political news. In addition, with local sources in decline, national platforms are often the only place where political news can be found, and those platforms have their own issues.

“They’re selling politics as a spectacle,” Jacob Barnes (12) said. “You’re buying opposition. You’re buying entertainment. Politics is based on consumption.”

Other sources of governmental flaws can lie in secrecy and internal corruption.

“Government isn’t necessarily corrupt, but the way [ours] runs has a lot of corruption,” Calvino Hammerman (10) said. “People go places to make deals. Are all these deals made by upstanding citizens? No, but that’s where real governing happens.”

US House

Candidates

Ray Hartmann (D)

Shelby Davis (G)

Brandon Daugherty (L)

US House Incumbent

Ann Wagner (R)

US House

Candidates

Ray Hartmann (D)

Shelby Davis (G)

Brandon Daugherty (L)

Some are observing larger issues in government, bringing up the question: Are there flaws with the system’s setup, or is this government fundamentally flawed?

“The way that politics is [discussed] is dangerous with this huge emphasis on [how] the only way to get stuff done is through representatives,” Franklyn Yang (12) said. “A lot of representatives don’t represent our issues, and [they’re] pandering to people.”

In contrast, some students find the system to be something that must be worked within.

“Getting the people who share your views elected can help,” Hammerman said. “Find a congressperson who shares your views and get them elected.”

Face the Facts

The

rise of inaccurate information and how to fght against it

By Max Karsh

Whether you follow politics or not, you’ve likely realized that it’s become a scene of conflicting information. As election day nears, false claims are flying around like birds in a storm. And let’s face it: it’s hard to follow what’s fact and what’s fiction. This is largely due to the contrast in dialogue coming from the two, ever-diverging political parties.

A timely report by Pew Research Center summarized “[at] this moment, these [political] divisions have collapsed onto a singular axis where we find no common cause,” which leads to the question: why now? A poll conducted by a political group at the University of Chicago found that over 90% of American adults believe that political extremism is escalated by the dispersal of inaccurate information, either spread knowingly, in which it is considered disinformation, or unknowingly, in which it is considered misinformation.

HOW TO FACTCHECK

Ask, who and where is this information coming from?

Identify any claims the author makes.

Look for evidence.

Confrm the evidence is legitimate by checking with another source.

Still not satisfed? Submit the statement to professional fact-checking organizations. (eg. Washington Post, FactCheck.org)

But who spreads this inaccurate information in the first place? A lot of it comes from the politicians, who use it for gain. For example, candidates running in key elections this year have spread false claims about fraudulent voting, intentionally fumbled over numbers, lied about their histories, made things up about their opponents, escalated non-existent political issues and even posted AI-generated images on social media. Particular candidates have downright admitted that they’re willing to create stories to get attention. The underlying theme: America’s most prominent politicians are taking lengths to make themselves look good — and make their opponents look bad — even if it means deceiving or lying to the American people. Additionally, the media is a contributor to the public’s consumption of inaccurate information. Many news sources have motivations beyond providing their audiences with accurate

information, including political and fiscal. For example, nearly all news websites have, to various extents, been rated left or right of the unbiased center in their political reporting, including some of the most popular: CNN, The New York Times and Fox News. For online news, another factor at play is the desire for readers to click on attractive headlines, no matter how misleading they are. More viewers means more advertisement traffic, and more advertisement traffic means more money. A similar effect occurs on social media platforms where users perpetuate false information to the masses in exchange for attention and followers. Alarmingly, Pew Research Center found that nearly half of young adults are relying on social media as their main source of election news this year. However, the media can have the opposite effect: reporting falsehoods. One example is the recent exposure of politicians’ false claim that migrants were eating

Staf

Illustration by Nina Ye

How do Students Consume Political Information?

Where do you get political news?

surveyed 325 students Oct. 22

pets in Springfield, Ohio. Following the claim, the town faced bomb threats and school closures, forcing the national guard to get involved. The media informed the public that it was false, aiding in settling the unrest.

Thankfully, due to the diverse array of online data, consumers of media have the opportunity to find the truth for themselves. While it requires additional time and the integrity to resist believing everything, checking facts with online fact-checkers or reliable organizations can assure the legitimacy of information to the greatest extent.

The Department of Homeland Security suggests the first step in the process of being “media literate,” or possessing the skills needed to digest information in a critical manner, is to consider who and where the information is coming from. Ask: “Is it a well-known or trusted outlet, and is it reputable for the subject at hand?” Equally important is the recognition of

any claims. Anything that sounds like a claim should be analyzed to make sure it’s properly supported by dependable evidence.

Yes, the simple task of catching up on the political happenings of the country may seem like an investigation. However, in today’s world, with lying politicians, biased news and suspicious social media posts, it’s crucial for people to obtain the right information. If they don’t, society could face an immense number of consequences. False rhetoric is already undermining democracy in more ways than causing division and violence. It also creates confusion and persuades peoples’ views, potentially affecting how they’ll vote. Thus, it is all the more important that news readers, social media posters and television viewers, as digesters of information and as Americans, recognize inaccurate information, and develop the skills needed to navigate this exceedingly untrustworthy political climate.

Pano FactCheck

“Hawley’s abortion plan won’t let any Missourian get an abortion.”

Misleading. Kunce’s opponent, Senator Josh Hawley, has supported the overturning of Roe v. Wade, a case that terminated the national right to an abortion. He has not, however, released his own abortion plan and has spoken about exceptions that would allow abortion to take place in certain scenarios.

“Kunce says no to the wall at the Mexican Border.”

Needs Context. This refers to the construction of a wall at the Mexico border, meant to prevent illegal immigration. While Kunce mentions that he wants to reform the border, he hasn’t said that he wants to take down or stop building the border wall. According to his website, he “supports increasing funding to properly equip border patrol.”

“Voting no on Amendment 3 would stop the trafcking of children.”

Ads against Amendment 3

False. Amendment 3 deals with abortion, not child trafcking, like numerous signs around the area claim. It does not modify any of Missouri’s mandatory reporting laws which require instances of child trafcking to be reported to the state under certain circumstances.

Ad for Josh Hawley Incumbent U.S. Senator

Ad for Lucas Kunce U.S. Senate Candidate

Terms to Know

Common terms heard regarding the election

Absentee Voting

Voting without presence to cast a ballot; this happens through mail or in person.

Campaign

The lead up to an election. It consists of the meeting of candidates with citizens to present ideas and debates among candidates in order to gain votes.

Conservative

One of the major political parties of the United States. Other terms include Republican and Right-Wing.

Dark Money

Funds given to infuence the outcome of a political election without disclosing the donor. The donor is considered a “dark money group.”

Electoral College

A special group of electors from each state based on population who vote in presidential elections. The presidential candidate who wins must achieve the majority of electoral votes (at least 270), not the majority of popular votes.

Gerrymandering

The practice of political fgures splitting electoral districts in order to get an unfair advantage over their rivals. This is able to occur every 10 years when states redraw their district lines.

Impeachment

The process of charging a government ofcial with misconduct, which is done by congress. This may include removing the person from ofce.

Independent

An individual who does not identify with the Democratic or Republican party and instead votes based on policy rather than party alignment.

Liberal

One of the major political parties of the United States. Other terms include Democrat and Left-Wing.

Libertarianism

The belief that the government should have minimal control in what a person’s personal freedom is.

Partisan

Refers to a strong adherence with one party. Non partisan refers to a weak adherence with any party.

Project 2025

A conservative presidential transition project that consists of four pillars: policy, personnel, training and playbook. It does not speak for any candidate or campaign.

Swing State

A state that is not decidedly Democratic or Republican, but can go either way in the election.

U.S. House of Representatives

Made up of 435 representatives elected from the states apportioned to each state’s population, and is a part of national congress. They are able to make federal laws and impeach federal ofcials.

U.S. Senate

The upper-house of parliament that has two members from each state and is a part of national congress. The U.S. Senate has the ability to pass legislation before it becomes law and draft amendments.

Illustration by Joyce Li

Door-toDoor

By Grace Huewe

Features Editor

CURIOUS?

For many students, the complexity of politics can be intimidating, especially with the circulation of misinformation and intensified polarization that largely characterizes politics today. New voters are uncertain about how they will cast their ballots, and in some cases, whether they will vote at all. But for Bohan Pan (12), there is a strong sense of urgency when it comes to being politically involved.

Pan began canvassing this past summer for the Cori Bush campaign. Now, she canvasses for Missourians for Constitutional Freedom, a group advocating for the passage of Amendment 3.

“It’s tedious to go knocking door to door,” Pan said. “But if you’re advocating for something you believe in, that’s a great motivator to continue showing up as much as you can.”

Months of experience have led Pan to develop strategies for addressing sensitive political topics when canvassing.

“A lot of it is just talking about how you feel and what you think, and not trying to implicate it onto their beliefs to ensure that the conversation doesn’t

become hostile and they feel that they have the space to disengage,” Pan said.

While this confrontation may steer others away from campaigning, Pan’s drive to make a difference influences her to engage in political activity.

“A lot has to be done outside of the realm of politics, like community organizing, to actually create change.”

Bohan Pan (12)

Pan recognizes her own privilege and the importance of advocating for those who lack the same opportunities.

“I go to a privileged school district and I’ve had a lot of resources at my disposition throughout high school,” Pan said. “A big reason to get involved in politics is for the people who can’t, especially because there are laws in a lot of states targeting voters of color, or legislation that directly affects welfare.”

How Are You Politically Involved?

“This will be my frst year voting, so I plan to research the candidates and amendments before going in.”

“As a member of Student Council, I try to stay up to date and promote youth voter registration.”

Noah Temple (12)

Aside from legislative limitations, there are other external factors preventing people from being politically engaged. Pan recognizes the difficulties that these challenges present.

“I’m really empathetic to the people who feel extremely disillusioned with the two party system and the state of American politics, which seems to have deviated a lot from policy, and has become more and more polarized,” Pan said. “We can’t see voting as the end-all be-all to political change. I’m 16, I’m not able to vote. That’s why I canvass and do things to be civically engaged.”

Despite her own inability to vote, Pan encourages her peers who are able to do so, emphasizing the critical role they play in shaping the future of the country.

“Young people are really important when it comes to first voting, but also being representative of the beliefs and the ideological trajectory that America is moving towards,” Pan said. “Older generations are less likely to take young people seriously, but that’s every more reason to go out [and] be involved in politics.”

Scan here to listen to an audio of the story P

“I’m volunteering as a student election judge for the Nov. 5 election as a way to learn about the voting process.”

Emma Lackey (12)

Olivia Morrison (12)

Bohan Pan (12) promotes political change through canvassing

Bohan Pan (12) knocks on a house door while canvassing. She has been canvassing for politicians and amendments since June. “People should try to do things to be civically engaged, even when [they] can’t vote,” Pan said. (Photo by Lathan Levy)

It’s 2024. Every four years, the U.S. decides on entities to govern us, from the circuit judge to the president. These representatives then go on to create legislation, formatively shaping the lives of their constituents.

But in a high school setting, not all can vote. Not all can work for a campaign. Thus, the concept of being politically active is rendered null and void for many 14- and 15-year-olds. Due to their age, many of our readers are simply not involved in politics.

So, when planning this issue, the Ladue Publications editorial staff had two defining questions: 1. How do we engage our younger readers that can’t vote? 2. What can we report on election that the national media isn’t already saying?

To answer the first question, we created a flip issue: one side nature, one side politics. A 44-page issue regarding the election wasn’t going to appeal to many of our readers, but some political coverage was necessary. In this issue, we’ve included pages geared toward a younger audience, such as “Terms to Know,” to ensure we’re informing our readers before they dive deep into politics.

To answer the second question, we decided to go local with our coverage. Every page in our election section has something to do with local politics — whether that’s state senators and representatives, misinformation on local advertisements or amendments that are top-of-mind for many Missourians. By focusing on this aspect of elections, we hope to cover those that represent us but are rarely in the limelight, bringing an awareness to the importance of local politics.

The general election is Nov. 5. We hope that those of you who can vote will vote. But for those of you who can’t, this section intends to serve as a guide, allowing you to enter future elections with an informed mindset.

The government’s ability to make change is called into question during periods of

On the Ballot

An overview of the issues and measures being voted on Nov. 5

Election Preparation

Tips for new St. Louis County voters Nov. 5

You may vote at any polling place in St. Louis County. Reed Elementary and Ladue City Hall are just two of the many locations. Bring a state-issued ID or driver’s license to the polling place. The November ballot is longer than usual, so be sure to take the time to look over it and prepare in advance.

U.S. Senate Candidates

Lucas Kunce: Democrat

Missouri Measures

An overview of some ballot measures

Proposition A

Would increase minimum wage to $13.75 and require all employers to provide an hour of sick leave for every 30 hours worked, exempting education institutions, political subdivisions and government entities.

Born and raised in Missouri, veteran marine for 12 years after graduating from Yale University.

Born and served as a Marine for 13 years after University.

Josh Hawley: Republican

Amendment 2

Raised in Rural Missouri, previously served as the state’s attorney general. Graduated from Stanford University and Yale Law School.

Jared Young: Better

Running as an Independent, holds degrees from Brigham Young University and Harvard Law school.

Incumbent. Previously served as the state’s attorney general. Graduated from Stanford University and Yale Law School. School.

Nathan Kline: Green

Graduate of the Kansas City Art Institute and Kansas City resident.

Presidential Candidates

Kamala Harris: Democrat

Born and raised in Oakland, California, and served as the 32nd attorney general of the state of California. Current vice president under Joe Biden

Would legalize sports betting for Missourians over 21, with 10% of the revenues recieved to be appropriated for education.

Amendment 3

Would remove Missouri’s ban on abortion and establish the right for a person to make decisions about reproductive healthcare without any government interference. Allows abortion to be restricted after fetal viability unless the life or health of the woman is at stake.

Amendment 5

(Photo courtesy of Kathy Fang/NSPA.)

Donald Trump: Republican

(Photo courtesy of Kathy Fang/NSPA) 45th

Born and raised in New York City. Finished a four-year term as the 46th president of the United States. Formerly in real estate.

(Photo courtesy of Nikolas Liepins/NSPA.)

(Photo courtesy of Nikolas Liepins/NSPA)

Jill Stein: Green

Born in Chicago and raised in Highland Park, Illinois. A Harvard University graduate and practiced as a physician prior to politics.

Would allow Missouri to issue one more gambling boat license to operate in a portion of the Osage river. Any profts made from this would be put towards early-childhood literacy programs in public institutions of elementary education.

CURIOUS?

Scan here for the full list of Missouri ballot measures

(Photo courtesy of Gage Skidmore CC BY-SA 3.0.)

(Photo courtesy of Gage Skidmore CC BY-SA 3.0)

Panorama November Issue

The Nature Issue

Panorama Staf

Sponsors

Issue

Silver

Growing a New Generation

CURIOUS?

Seeds to Sprout

Once in a Lifetime

All PAWS In

Science teacher Allen Weltig shares the process of creating and running PAWS

MORE TO KNOW

Triple Threat

Karan Vatwani (12) trains for and competes in triathlons

Chavez Climbs

Art

TRIP TO PERU

On The Trail

The Escapist’s Paradox

Modern travel culture fuels a dangerous indiference for local surroundings

RUNNING FROM REALITY

A Greener World

Wading In

Wetland Wonders

A look at species common to the wetlands

A Deeper Dive

Outreach and Opportunities

Testing the Waters

Farm Fresh

Vendors at The Summit All Seasons Market grow and sell fresh, sustainable products

Strawberries

Sourced

Asparagus

Peppers

CURIOUS?

Fish Frenzy

Science teacher Adam Durham’s fsh tank creates exciting classroom environment

Fake Plants

Silver Dollar

Underwater Structures

Fishing Tales

What is your favorite fshing memory?

Fittonia

Ti Plant

Pothos

Dracaena

Bird-of-Paradise

Indoor Jungle

On the Hunt

Practical arts teacher Charles Harrison develops passion for hunting

HUNTING CHECKLIST

In Command

PALANCA’S PROWESS

12

20th

Hinz on the Rise

Will Hinz (11) displays his passion for climbing

Into the Outdoors

1. Forest Park

2. Larson Park

Eyes on the Skies

Appreciating

Sky Guide

Leo

Cassiopeia Cygnus

Stellar Night Views

Panorama Perspective

CURIOUS?

SOMETHING TO ADD?

A United Conversation

Panorama staf dives into the debates that have flled the U.S. political landscape

Electoral Discourse

Civil Debate

Tax Inequality

MORE TO KNOW

CURIOUS?

Ladue in Focus

Students and staf refect on politics, the election and the future

Describe the Election in One Word.