panorama LADUE HORTON WATKINS HIGH SCHOOL v 1201 S. WARSON ROAD ST. LOUIS, MO 63124 v VOLUME 65, ISSUE 7 3/15/2017
International ' Women s Day – READ MORE ON PAGES 8-9 –
Table of Contents 3 News
6 Features
The Staff Editors-in-Chief Copy Editors News Editor Features Editor In-Depth Editor Sports Editors Photo Editors
(Photo by Jess Matson)
8 In-Depth
(Photo courtesy of Caitlin Cunningham)
11 A&E
Art Editors Business Manager Webmaster Writers
(Photo by Lily Hauptman)
annie zheng w ART EDITOR
12 Sports
(Photo courtesy of Shirley Gelman)
14 Opinions
naomi frankel w ARTIST
Our Policy Panorama is a monthly newspaper that strives to inform and entertain students, staff and community members and to uphold professional standards of accuracy and fairness. The publication hopes to engage the student body by eliciting dialogue among our readers. It aims to reflect the diversity of the population it serves and observes the journalistic principle of doing no harm. Panorama is produced nine times per school year by the journalism class of Ladue Horton Watkins High School at 1201 S. Warson Rd., St. Louis, Missouri 63124. The publication lab is located in Room 216, (314)-993-6447 ext. 5844.
Photographers Artists Adviser
Isabella Fu Aaron Greenberg Julia Biest Sasha Rice Sophia Li Lily Hauptman Katie Bry Glen Morgenstern Sam Shevitz Michael Burke Sophia Garland Audrey Wang Annie Zheng Michael Burke Max Baker Jackson Bry Connie Chen Ope Falako Alex Fu Mackenzie HinesWilson Joel Hsieh Felix Hu Anik Jain Grace Kim Parris King-Levine Malavika Kumaran Albert Liu Ryan Miller Adam Rush Hope Shimony Bradford Siwak Hannah Suffian Anya Tullman Cindy Wang Ula Lijowska Jess Matson Luke Minkler Jack Glon Simon Nguyen Aleesha Shi Sarah Semmel
Read more online at www.laduelead.com Follow @laduepanorama
Panorama welcomes and encourages letters to the editor. Please bring signed letters to Room 216. Panorama reserves the right to revise submissions as long as original intent remains unaltered. Cover design by Aaron Greenberg.
3 panorama MEET THE BOARD OF EDUCATION CANDIDATES NEWS
Seven people compete for prestigious empty seats on the Board. After the new members have been elected to office, the Board members select their positions. Christopher Zoellner
Andy Bresler
Carolyn Jaeger
Sophia Li: How have your academic background and past jobs prepared you to become a member of the Board?
SL: What are the most important aspects of education? Why?
SL: If elected, how will you impact the students of Ladue?
Carolyn Jaeger: Education is the foundation that can empower our students and their lives. A quality education and hard work will open the windows of opportunities. But education goes beyond book learning. It incorporates not just our mind but our character, ethics and interpersonal skills. Education must be accompanied with the desire to learn and flexibility to adapt, allowing us to critically and creatively think. As the world continues to change, so must our educational experience.
Christopher Zoellner: I will impact the students of Ladue by helping to ensure a clear and level playing field across the board for all students, period. This is a very important issue for me and one that deserves the utmost of attention as the district moves into the future. Having grown up in the city of St. Louis, where diversity was a part of everyday life, I feel I bring a unique perspective to the Board as the makeup of the district continues to expand.
What quality do you value most in a Ladue Board of Education member? Innovation Charisma 5%
Passion 16%
30% 8%
41%
Other
Intelligence
In which area would you most like to see action taken? Student activities
Curriculum
26%
20%
35%
19%
School building
Other
(Based on 289 students polled)
Kisha Lee
Andy Bresler: I believe that I have a good academic foundation, especially in finance, and a good understanding of what it takes for an organization to be successful. Also, I have six years of experience on the Ladue School Board, having served both as Treasurer and as Vice President. This has allowed me to merge my experience in the business world with the practical applications of a school district.
Leslie Tolliver
SL: What are the most important aspects of education and why?
SL: How have past jobs prepared you to become a Board member?
Kisha Lee: Education is the key to opportunity and the window to knowledge. Through the vehicle of education, students have the ability to explore the world and gain knowledge that will carry them throughout their lives. Education and access to a quality public education, such as we have in the Ladue School District, are a privilege and should be revered. The value of a quality education cannot be quantified, but the impact on society to empower young people will continue to produce positive results.
Leslie Tolliver: As an adjunct professor, I am well aware of the need for staff, administrators and students to play active roles in the learning process, from curriculum selection to testing. I would like to see more administrator involvement in budgeting and meeting building needs for our students. As a former elected official, I am experienced at seeking the best results for my constituents, the families of Ladue School District, while remaining level-headed, fair and concise.
Lolita Flinn
SL: How have your academic background and past jobs prepared you to become a member of the Board? Lolita Flinn: I have over a decade of professional experience in federal government agencies. I have created and implemented policies and business procedures. I am skilled in identifying and analyzing program, procedural and policy needs and constructing and implementing solutions. As a public servant, I understand the importance of preserving public trust, and I will encourage continued transparency of the Board.
Patrick Coughlin
SL: What are the most important aspects of education? Why? Patrick Coughlin: The most important aspect of an education is experiencing and learning in a wide range of interesting subjects while having the ability to dive deeply into an area of concentration and individualize one's education and academic success. Not many 15- and 16-year-olds have decided on their career path or college majors, and by exposing students to a wide curriculum, Ladue Schools will help our students find success. (Photos courtesy of each individual candidate)
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Food, fun and flags:
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felix HU
news writer
adue’s annual International Week kicked off Feb. 27. This year featured guest speakers, showcases from the Spanish, French and German honor societies as well as illustration and trivia contests. The French Honor Society joined with band members for the Mardi Gras parade Feb. 28. The parade was planned by French Honor Society sponsor Bridget Milford and was led by FNHS members. “Our goal was primarily to have a great time,” Milford said. “We laid out a route through the school and invited the percussionists to join the parade. I planned what we would like to do— giving out beads, candy and wearing masks.” Later that same day, Peace Corps volunteers came to host a presentation. Students who take language classes attended the informational event. “The panel discussion explained the goals of the Peace Corps, a bit of its history as an organization and how volunteers grow and benefit from their ser-
NEWS
A look at 2017 International Week and Ladue’s local multiculturalism
vice and how successful, or not, years. The most notable addithe various projects have been,” tions were the poster contest and language department chair Debo- crossword trivia. rah Lund said. The poster contest occurred During International Week, prior to all the other events in the French, Spanish and German International Week. Individuals honor societies held a student and teams were challenged to showcase. The acts were a mix design a poster which reflected of singing, dancing and acting. this year’s theme: interculturaliEach performer took different ty— where language and culture roles in the show— some played meet. Judges then awarded the instruments, others vocalized. most vibrant, meaningful art From Ivorian band Magic piece as the winner. System’s “Magic in the Air” “I really enjoyed the poster to the comedic German dance competition,” Tullman said. “D’Hammerschmiedsgselln,” “My poster had an open presstudents performed the culent which said, ‘to culture, tural songs that they had been love language.’ Balloons stuck practicing throughout the school out of the box with the word year. Sophomore ‘Hello’ written Anya Tullman and It’s difficult to understand in a different her Spanish class language. All decided to perform another culture without in all, I wanted without being immersed my work to “Todo Cambio.” “I’ve never represent how in it. done the student sophomore anya tullman language and showcase before,” culture interTullman said. “However, before twine and celebrate each other. ” it was our turn, I felt more exThen came the new crosscited than anxious. [The perforword trivia race, arranged by mance] wasn’t to show off our Spanish teacher Haydee Taylorsinging talent but to show off a Arnold. The trivia was set up foreign culture.” as a scavenger hunt; signs, each The annual International bearing a QR code leading to Week also experienced some a question, were tacked on the changes compared to previous walls of Ladue High School.
PARADE OF NATIONS w
Juniors Vinicius Fernandes and Julia Wang hold up the Nicaraguan and Spanish flags in the annual Parade of Nations March 1. (Photo by Jess Matson)
“Questions were formatted as QR codes, which simplified the process because students could use their phone’s camera to view the question. Also, the language teachers, when proposing new questions for the trivia, could more easily add their own inputs via the Internet,” Taylor-Arnold said. “Overall, we just wanted it to be something challenging and refreshing, something that would either work the mind or require bits of research.”
International Week ended March 2. Students attained new knowledge of other cultures. “It’s difficult to understand another culture without being immersed in it,” Tullman said. “This [year] especially, the events happening during International Week made it easier to do such a thing. We were able to interact with people of different backgrounds, celebrate being part of a global society and, in the end, it creates a cohesive community.” h
Upperclassmen celebrate annual Mr. Ladue Donations given to the Boys and Girls Club of St. Louis
“Then there are different rounds, and each round the judges, [who] are teachers, pick who they think should be adam RUSH Mr. Ladue based off how well they perform.” news writer Gelman and her friends decided to sponsor Mr. Ladue and donate the money to the Boys and Girls Club of St. he 2017 Mr. Ladue pageant occurred March 14 Louis because they wanted to support a local charity. The at 7 p.m. History teacher Eric Hahn and senior organization provides after-school and summer programs Michael Burke hosted the event. for underprivileged kids. Co-sponsored by biology teacher “We wanted a charity that was Molly Mannix and journalism teacher a part of our community and that Sarah Semmel, Mr. Ladue is a showwas education centered,” Mannix case event for upperclassmen. All said. “The Boys and Girls Club fits proceeds from the ticket sales went to perfectly, and they are so excited the Boys and Girls Club of St. Louis. that we are raising money for its The ticket price was $10. Preprograms.” viously sponsored by Habitat for While Mannix’s main reason Humanity and math teacher Debra for coordinating Mr. Ladue was for Carson, this year a group of seniors charity, she also thought it was fun organized Mr. Ladue. to see other students perform in a LADUE LADS w Upperclassmen Thirty-six male contestants took fun event. prepare for their dance routine Feb. 21. the stage and participated in a variety (Photo courtesy of Sarah Semmel) “I believe the main purpose of of activities including lip syncing Mr. Ladue is to raise money for battles, minute-to-win-it games and more. charity,” Mannix said. “After that, it is a fun way for “At the beginning, we describe our charity, and the junior and senior boys to showcase their talents and have boys perform a dance,” senior Shirley Gelman said. fun.”
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Senior Reese Minkler chose to be involved with Mr. Ladue because he realized that he could join a fun activity while also contributing to the community. For the event, his nickname was “Mr. Nice Guy.” “[I joined] because it’s a good fundraiser that benefits not only the minds of our students, but also those who receive the money from [the] fundraising,” Minkler said. “It is a great way to raise money for charity [and you can also] have fun while doing it.” Although Minkler was surprised that he was nominated to participate in Mr. Ladue, he was happy for the opportunity to be in a popular school event. “I really don’t expect to win because I have stage fright,” Minkler said. “[But I] hope to dance my butt off in Mr. Ladue.” Minkler’s favorite part was watching his friends embarrass themselves. Despite contestants doing silly things, Mr. Ladue continues to draw participants. Mannix believes that most students compete in Mr. Ladue because of its local roots. Brought to Ladue by Carson, the event has been a tradition for more than seven years. “What I have learned from my short time at Ladue is that everyone here takes pride in traditions,” Mannix said. “I also think the fundraising aspect plays a big part of it— that [we are] able to give back to our community.” h
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panorama
NEWS
Chesed Shel Emeth Cemetery tombs damaged The local community rallies around victims’ families
C
katie SHAW
news writer
hesed Shel Emeth Cemetery in University City reported the vandalism of about 200 tombstones Feb. 20. Vice President Mike Pence and Governor Eric Greitens visited the site Feb. 22 to pay their respects. The police are currently investigating the event and have not yet decided if it classifies as a hate crime. In addition, efforts are being made to notify relatives and to repair the cemetery as quickly as possible. This destruction comes at a time of social unrest. With new political changes and racial tensions once again being brought to attention, the cemetery incident raises new concerns about injustice in the St. Louis community and how it can be stopped. “I think we just need to keep doing what we do— being our best,” senior Bibi Schindler said.
making sure that everyone feels quickly is extremely uplifting,” “I've seen kids invite someone junior Pardes Lyons-Warren said. welcomed.” who's sitting alone to their table This theme of showing “Not only are they setting an at the beginning of the year, respect transcends the Ladue example for other congregations [and] students help out undercommunity and applies to people and communities, they are provclassmen to find their rooms. I ing stereotypes wrong.” think that this comHeartwarming acts munity— the Ladue like fundraising may imcommunity— is, for prove the social tension, the most part, doing but they can also slowly well right now.” change how the comSocial studies munity thinks. Small beteacher Jim GoldwasIN LOVING MEMORY IN LOVING MEMORY havioral changes in how ser believes that it is OF OF people act will improve important for teachJOHN DOE JANE DOE the level of respect in ers to help prevent the community. future incidents and “If everyone realizes to ensure that all that we're all human, students in the Ladue in the sense that we community feel safe will slip up and say the at school. Positive wrong thing occasionschool atmospheres ally— honestly, just let correlate to more student involvement and annie zheng ART EDITOR people know ‘hey that's not cool to say’— and that by behigher academic achievement. of all races and religions. For ing human, we're all supposed to “I think that one of the most example, local Muslim congreimportant responsibilities of gations have been raising money be equal and respected as such, we'd be fine,” Schindler said. to help with tombstone repairs. a teacher is setting a tone of Lyons-Warren also thinks that “The fact that the Muslim respect,” Goldwasser said. students at the high school, and “Respect goes a long way toward community reached out so w
in Ladue in general, could strive to be more aware of what they say and think about how their speech and actions affect the people around them. “People in Ladue should just be careful not to say hateful things, even by accident,” LyonsWarren said. “Offensive jokes, stereotypes and comments are often more hurtful than intended and can make people not want to come to school.” By learning to embrace tolerance and act respectully from this incident, it will be possible to prevent such destruction from occurring once more. In uncertain times, acceptance and compassion may serve to be the glue that holds us together. “I think this act will have the opposite effect that the perpetrators intended,” Goldwasser said. “We must realize that our commonalities are much greater than our differences, [and] the St. Louis community has come together over this incident.”h
What in the world? Looking at big news PARIS, FRANCEPoachers killed a white rhinoceros in Thoiry Zoo for its horn March 6.
WASHINGTON, D.C., USAThe Pentagon promised to investigate the scandal involving obscene photos of female Marines shared in a private Facebook group March 5.
AGADIR, MOROCCOSouth African man Chris Bertish became the first man to cross the Atlantic Ocean alone and unassisted on a paddle board March 9. He began in Morocco and ended in Antigua.
SEOUL, SOUTH KOREASouth Korean president Park Geunhye was impeached and removed from office March 10. She was found guilty of giving confidential documents to her friend Choi Soon-sil, who took bribes from companies.
RIO DE JANEIRO, BRAZILBrazilian mayor Edgar de Souza married businessman Alexsandro Luciano Trindade March 7.
audrey wang and simon nguyenw ARTISTS
panorama 6 FEATURES Fashion-industry bound double takes Ladue students shine in the spotlight said. “It’s really important to make sure you have your priorities straight and accept the fact that you can’t do everything.” Her experience with West has been so enjoyable that she plans on continuing with modeling when she gets older. She is also working with the agency to expand her career. “I have met so many new people and had so many new experiences,” Valeriote said. “I am working with my agents in hopes of branching out into other industries outside of St. Louis.” Ladue Fashion Club works to encourage other aspiring models like Valeriote and designers to pursue their dream in the field of fashion. Seniors and club leaders
year. Fortunately, we are planning another one for the next ope FALAKO upcoming school year,” Harper features writer said. “To fundraise, we host tep aside, “America’s Next movie nights and host a kids day Top Model”: there is a where we help kids design and new superstar on the runpaint their own shirts.” way. Sophomore Kate Valeriote In order to prepare for the has modeled for West Model & annual fashion show, CottonTalent Management for a year Whitehorn and Harper work out and a half. the details with their sponsor, “I have done beauty shoots, broadcast technology teacher which are all about showing Marteana Davidson. This is the off makeup or hair. For runway first year of Davidson’s sponsorshows, [what I model] really deship, but the club leaders have pends on the designer,” Valeriote been of great help to her. said. “When I modeled [for] Saks “There are a lot of layers Fifth Avenue, I [wore] a lot of to running a fashion show,” ball gowns and fancier dresses.” Davidson said. “I assisted, with Valeriote started her career the show last year, so I was able when West Model Management to get a little taste of what is had an open call. Her needed, but it doesn’t mother wanted her compare to actuI have always wanted to model, and I had the to wait a little while ally being the club before she started, but runway body. I went to an open call for West, sponsor. You have to she was very eager to which is a major runway agency who represents be very organized, get started. and that’s where the Victoria’s Secret model Devon Windsor, not “I have always students come in.” expecting to receive any interest. wanted to model, A crucial aspect sophomore Kate Valeriote and I had the runway of the show is the body. I went to an showcase. The club open call for West, which is a Shannon Harper and Mallory collects clothes from local boumajor runway agency who repCotton-Whitehorn have been tiques and students. resents Victoria’s Secret model hard at work trying to develop “We collect clothes from area Devon Windsor, not expecting their talents. boutiques like Vie, Mister Guy to receive any interest. However, “[We] help models and fashand Savvi Formal wear,” DaI was wrong,” Valeriote said. ion designers by [exposing them vidson said. “In the past, we’ve “West was an amazing fit, and I to] the professional world of had students showcase their have been with them ever since.” fashion. We let them watch fashown fashion collection which I Valeriote works hard to manion shows and give students the enjoyed the most.” age her modelling and schoolchance to model in our annual The club focuses on different work. The hardest modeling fashion show,” Harper said. “We aspects of fashion shows, includseasons for Valeriote are the fall also allow students to showcase ing photography and marketing. and the spring, as she has other their designs in our show.” The leaders hope to show fashion priorities during those times. The club went to New York is multifaceted. “Managing my time is espetwo years ago, where they ex“There are a lot of attributes cially hard in the fall and spring plored fashion and design in the in the fashion industry,” Cottonseasons. Fall and spring are espe- Big Apple. In addition, the club Whitehorn said. “It’s not only cially big seasons for runway and gives back to the community. about the models and designers.” fashion. [In addition], I also play “We didn’t have the pleasure The topic of the meetings are fall and spring sports,” Valeriote to take another trip this school decided beforehand. Additionally, they are largely memberoriented. The officers hope to SHOW inform the students about how SMILES w the facets of the fashion industry Celebrating the promote a positive environment 2016 show, the and more than modeling. members of “During meetings we talk Fashion Club applaud. “Fashion about styles that we all have, see club is a club that what’s trending and watch fashgives people who ion shows. We also follow trends [are] interested like nails, makeup, hair, clothes in any job of fashand shoes,” Cotton-Whitehorn ion a better look said. “We give information about into it,” senior what it takes to be in the fashion Shannon Harper industry because it is very endursaid. (Photo courtesy of Shan- ing. It is all about self motivanon Harper) tion.” h
S
We scoured the halls in search of Ladue’s best look-alikes... here’s what we found.
sophomore Stephen Bowen
senior Reilly Ahearn
math teacher Rachel Garavaglia
junior Alexia Thomas (Photos by Lily Hauptman)
@humansofladue
Everyone in this school has a story to tell. Follow us on Instagram to see more.
“In orchestra class, me and Elise sit across the room [from each other], and we just make weird faces at each other. Our orchestra teacher pulled us over and was like ‘You guys used to be such proper students. Now you’re just odd.’” “Best memory.”
Drawing up her future:
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panorama
FEATURES
anya TULLMAN features writer
t the age of 3, junior Caitlin Cunningham picked up a crayon and began to express herself through her artwork. Since then, Cunningham has excelled in various art classes at Ladue. Art is not her only passion, however. During freshman year, Cunningham became interested in the abnormal psychology unit in her health class. Because of this, she has strived to become an art therapist, which combines her two passions into one career. “I’ve always wanted to do something with art,” Cunningham said. “I started thinking about going into art therapy because I’m good at talking to people about their issues.” According to Cunningham, an art therapist’s job is quite complex. Art therapists usually work with children that have experienced especially traumatic events and help them to express themselves through drawings; because of these traumatic events, children may not be able to express themselves properly. “[An art therapist] can ask a patient to draw on his own and can then judge what is going on in his life by the art he produces,” Cunningham said. “Art therapists compare a patient’s artwork with basic things like color choice and size proportions. Anything that varies from what is considered normal will be a flag for something different.” AP Studio Art gives Cunningham a chance to fine-tune her passion. In the class, she is also surrounded by others who share her level of creativity. AP Studio Art teacher Daniel Raedeke has had a large impact on Cunningham’s artistic ability.
Student sells her artwork to achieve her unique goals
“[Raedeke] is really supportive,” Cunningham said. “When I’m up for a critique, he always has something to say. He usually likes what direction I’m going in, but he helps me refine my work.” Raedeke is very confident in Cunningham’s ability to succeed in the art field. He says that she has branched out visually using experimentation and new artistic mediums and techniques. “[Cunningham] has a great combination of being able to express ideas in her work; she isn’t just content to try and paint a pretty picture,” Raedeke said. “She thinks through her ideas and starts out trying to express a point of view or take on issues and concepts that she feels passionately about.” Recently, Cunningham has begun to think about the possibility of taking a gap year after high school to explore her creative nature while learning about a new culture. Right now, she is considering traveling to Bali to volunteer at a turtle sanctuary. “I think it’s so important to go to new places,” Cunningham said. “In my opinion, when you’re traveling, you can discover more about yourself from a foreign place than you can in your own home. Whatever sticks with you when you’re in a foreign place, that’s got to be who you are.” Cunningham is currently selling her artwork in order to raise money for her potential gap year. She sells watercolor cards for five dollars and can also do custom orders. “I bought a custom, hand-painted watercolor card,” junior Hannah Marvin said. “I wanted to give it to my little sister for Valentine’s Day, so I asked [Cunningham] to paint something related to sisters’ love. She did an incredible job.” Unlike some artists, Cunningham doesn’t struggle to find inspiration for her artwork. When she sits down and
ARTFULLY CRAFTING w
In her AP Studio Art class, junior Caitlin Cunningham works on one of her projects. “I have a lot of really creative people around me, so that pushes me to excel at what I’m doing,” Cunningham said. “We do concentrations, which is where we have a theme for all our work. Right now I’m doing a mental illness and emotions theme so that ties into my art therapy too.” (Photo by Ula Lijowska)
picks up a paintbrush, Cunningham reflects on her own experiences and feelings and portrays them through art. “Whoever that day has made me feel good or made me feel bad, that’s going to affect what my art looks like,” Cunningham said. “My art is usually straight from my emotions.” Cunningham has found a way to express her emotions and beliefs through her creations, each one different and beautifully unique from the next. According to Raedeke, Cunningham has the talent, intellectual approach and work ethic to do whatever she sets her mind to. “I love Caitlin’s artwork because I can always see her in it,” junior Leah Snidman said. “It reflects her morals, and it’s amazing to see those values creatively displayed in different forms of art.” h
A board game that aims to end boredom Middle school gifted program teacher publishes board game
G
albert LIU
features writer
rab a rocket and race against other players in middle school teacher and board game creator Kathleen Mercury’s new board game “Crash Course.” The game features rocketship players as they employ a wide variety of gadgets to try to eliminate the other players. Players can crash their rockets into each other, and the one with more protective layers comes out triumphant. “‘Crash Course’ is a race game with player elimination, which is funny because I don’t let my students design player elimination games,” Mercury said. “Crash Course” offers multiple layers of unending fun. Made
said. “This was definitely a case in collaboration with her partner Mark Sellmeyer, Mercury’s of having the right game at the game earned the opportunity to right time for the right publisher.” be published by IDW Games. Board game creating is “It’s fun, fast and has a modular board, so each race another challenge to expand the maker’s thinking. The process will be different,” Mercury said. “Everyone will need to buy this game.” Mercury attributes luck and hard work to publishing “Crash Course” with IDW Games. She had always aimed to publish a board game, and with teaching game design for many years, she is constantly experimenting with simon ng game design. uyen ART IST “Luckily, IDW wants to put requires the creator to think out 20 games this year, and they have a game coming out soon creatively in order to make an interesting game to play. Mercury called ‘Rayguns and Rocketships’ that has a similar theme, teaches kids to think creatively as she challenges them to invent so publishing ‘Crash Course’ will help to expand that story and and execute the design of their own games in her classroom. product line for them,” Mercury w
“You can get as creative as you want, which was pretty awesome,” sophomore and Mercury’s former student Hale Masaki said. “In the class, you get to learn about all of the nuances of more complicated games and what exactly defines the line between the fun and the not. As a class, we helped each other find out what mechanics worked and didn’t, write rules and figure out which ideas were fun and which ones were stupid.” Ultimately, board games offer students a creative outlet and pride when they see their finished results. Former game makers recall their enjoyment of making and playing their games in Mercury’s class. “My favorite part was definitely finishing my game and being able to play it for the first time,” junior and Mercury’s for-
mer student Evyn Levy said. “It was really cool to play a game and think, ‘Hey, I made this! This is mine!’” Through board games, Mercury offers her students the opportunity to bond with friends and experience healthy competition. She possesses more than 300 board games in her classroom which she allows students to explore and enjoy in their spare time. “Board games teach kids healthy competition, and it gives kids the opportunity to practice winning and losing gracefully,” junior and Mercury’s former board game student Annie Liu said. “Board games also get kids away from phones and technology, and instead, they interact with other people in an intellectually challenging yet fun environment.” h
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panorama safe
connections
Aims to “reduce the impact and incidence of relationship violence and sexual assault”
Services that Safe Connections offers:
IN-DEPTH
Gender wage gap by the numbers * The wage gap won’t completely close until
according to the World Economic Forum.
*
2186
the amount of money that the av$430,000 iserage working woman will lose over
• Rape Aggression Defense classes for self-defense • Project Healthy Alternatives for Relationships among Teens provides teen dating violence prevention workshops and LGBT education • Counseling for women and men who have experienced domestic or sexual violence • 24-hour Crisis Helpline
her working lifetime because of the wage gap, according to the U.S. Census. CEO positions of the S&P 500 com* panies are held by women, according to the Catalyst, a nonprofit that strives to include women in the workplace.
If you or a loved one needs help, call the Crisis Helpline at 314-531-2003
makes 77¢, the average African-American woman makes 64¢ and the average Hispanic woman makes 56¢ for equivalent work, according to the latest U.S. Census statistics.
29 of 500
* For every dollar a white male makes, the average woman
International Women’s
Feminist Coalition of Ladue part of women while still calling for the erradication of inequality. “I think a lot of the time we tend to neglect people in our society,” Collinger said. ust a few of the sayings “You can tell that by our lack drawn on pins that students of equity within the pay grade, wore March 8 included so I think [IWD] is recognition “Nevertheless, she persisted,” toward the incredible work and “Girls just wanna have FUNdamental rights” and “The future resilience that women represent in our country, and not only in is female.” our country, but also around the In support of International world.” Women’s Day, Feminist CoaliThis is the second year that tion of Ladue sold pins decorated FemCo has been a club at Ladue. with various feminist slogans. English teacher Janet Duckham The proceeds were donated to Safe Connection, an organization has been the sponsor both years. “I believe it is a day to honor that helps women in the St. Louis women as a group and women’s region get acclimated back into history of achievement and their lives after domestic and worthiness to be treated as equal sexual violence, according to with pay and respect and all the senior and FemCo president things that we continue to fight Elizabeth Collinger. for,” Duckham said. “Everyone deserves safe Duckham has always been connections,” Safe Connections’ passionate about the cause of website says. “That’s why our equality for women. The club has organization exists. We offer taken varihope before, during ... I think [IWD] is recognition to- ous forms and after ward the incredible work and resil- over the domestic ience that women represent in our years, according to abuse and country and not only in our coun- Duckham. sexual “The violence.” try but also around the world. IWD senior Elizabeth Collinger [students] do a variety has been of things in my experience,” celebrated March 8 for over 100 years. The purpose of the holiday Duckham said. “They raise money for women’s causes, but they is to celebrate the achievements
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also discuss women’s issues. The participants have watched videos relating to topics that affect causes that they care about. It is mostly discussion as well as fundraising and awareness.” As a sponsor, Duckham handles some of the logistics of the club, such as acquiring the button maker. However, students like Collinger are the ones who really lead the club. “I like to let them really take charge of the club and lead it. I am just support, and I just enjoy seeing them take that leadership role,” Duckham said. “Female students make up half the population of the high school, and they ought to have a place where they can discuss their interest in this cause, which is an ongoing national conversation as well.” Aside from making the pins for IWD, the members of FemCo do many other things during meetings. For example, they talk about topics like race, class, gender and sexual orientation in order to further expand their definition of feminism, according to Collinger. “We have to recognize the importance within feminism that it is not a white women’s movement, so we try to educate our club about the importance of staying active not only for white women,” Collinger said.
According to junior and FemCo member Kelechi Achilefu, one of his favorite meetings was hearing slam poetry about the problems women face in America that need to be addressed. Achilefu is one of the few male members of FemCo, causing some people to question why he is in a feminist club. “People are surprised. Some people laugh because a common misconception is that you have to be a woman to be a feminist,” Achilefu said. “But after I explain to them, they somewhat understand where I’m coming from. I think that it has helped me understand more issues that are prominent to society that I don’t really see often.” Achilefu said he was welcomed with open arms by the group. According to Achilefu, another misconception people have is that feminists hate men. “It is really frustrating when people assume that feminism is women trying to overtake society or undermine men,” Collinger said. “We care about everyone. It is just that currently we need to bring to light the injustice that a lot of women still face within our society, whether that is in equal pay or just sexism in the workplace. We are trying to raise equality for all and we are not trying to push down men.”h
GETTING CREATIVE w (Top) Desi Coalition of Ladue fundraiser, senior Elizabe nism symbol March 6.
WORKING FOR A CAUSE w (Bo ton maker, junior Maggie Tyrell creates one o to benefit Safe Connections. (Photos by Soph
International Women’s Day through the years
IN-DEPTH
The first National Women’s Day was organized by the Socialist Party of America on Feb. 28. This holiday was celebrated on this day in the United States until 1913.
1909
1911
The holiday expanded to four other countries: Austria, Denmark, Germany and Switzerland. There were IWD rallies for women’s rights to work, vote and more.
Russian women went on strike for the 2 million soldiers who died in WWI. The day they went on strike was March 8, which is now the date of IWD.
1917
1975
The United Nations began celebrating IWD. This year was named International Women’s Year, and it marked the beginning of International Women’s Decade.
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The UN started annual themes. The first theme was “Celebrating the Past, Planning for the Future.” This year’s theme was “Women in the Changing World of Work.”
1996
2011
For the 100th anniversary of IWD, more than 100 countries celebrated the holiday. President Obama also declared March “Women’s History Month.”
s Day at Ladue
ticipates in IWD
signing a pin for the Feminist eth Collinger copies the femi-
ottom) Pressing down the butof the pins that were sold for $2 hia Garland)
katie BRY
in-depth editor
julia BIEST copy editor
annie zheng w ART EDITOR
Feminism in the news Emma Watson’s revealing photo shoot
Recently, actress and women’s rights advocate Emma Watson did a photo shoot with Vanity Fair in which she posed in revealing clothes. She received backlash from many critics who claimed she was an anti-feminist because her photos seemed to sexualize women. “Feminism is not a stick with which to beat other women...” Watson stated in an interview with Reuters. “It’s about freedom, it’s about liberation, it’s about equality.”
Marine scandal regarding inappropriate photos For the first time, women were allowed in the Marine Corps Jan. 5. This stride forward was soon met with steps back. Hundreds of male Marines allegedly shared Facebook pictures they took of female Marines in the changing room. When Thomas Brennan, a Marine veteran, found this Facebook group, he reported it to the Marine Corps, and it was taken down.
The “Big Bang Theory” salaries change
Three of the stars on the “Big Bang Theory” were reported to make $1 million per episode, while two of the female stars, Mayim Bialik and Melissa Rauch, only make $200,000 per episode. Bialik and Rauch have made significant contributions to the show with four Emmy nominations. This year, five of the stars took $100,000 pay cuts in order to raise Bialik and Rauch’s salaries.
9
What does feminism mean to you?
(Photos by Michael Burke)
“Everyone deserves the same chances for everything, and I don’t think that’s always true, so I want to do everything I can to show that it’s important.” -senior Jessie Steinbaum “Feminism to me is equality for everyone: knowing that we all have the same rights as everyone else.” -junior Kaycee Little “I showed [my dad] my pin, and he was like, ‘You know what that is, it’s just human decency.’ There shouldn’t be feminists, it should just be human decency.” -senior Shirley Gelman
“Feminism means being able to advocate for women’s rights that have been proven over and over again to be unequal to men’s rights.” -junior Kelechi Achilefu “[Feminism] means respecting everyone no matter what and making sure everyone is cared for and equal.” -senior Kate Milburn “In the dictionary, it’s really just equal rights for men and women, and I think that’s just pretty literal, but that’s what it is.” -senior Elizabeth Collinger
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panorama 11 Out with the old tracks, in with the new ones ARTS AND ENTERTAINMENT
Recaps and reviews of the newly-released, popular music albums hope SHIMONY a&e writer
Ed Sheeran: Divide
E
(Photo courtesy of edsheeran.com)
d Sheeran released his album “Divide” March 3. In this album, Sheeran mixes different sounds, including folk, rap, pop and ballads. “Castle on the Hill” addresses Sheeran’s happy childhood experiences, and “Shape of You” is a fun hip-hop song that will translate well into a radio anthem. In his song “New Man,” Sheeran confronts his ex-girlfriend by telling her to stop contacting him because she already has a new man. In “What Do I Know?” Sheeran explains his simple view of life and his belief that love and music can change the world. In “Bibia Be Ye Ye,” Sheeran uses Twi, a language native to Africa. In addition to singing in Twi, Sheeran uses bits of Spanish in his song “Barcelona.” Sheeran also uses Celtic folk elements in “Nancy Mulligan” and “Galway Girl” and rap in “Eraser.” The rest of the “Divide” album consists of ballads Sheeran has written to the women in his life. These songs include “Perfect,” “Dive,” “Supermarket Flowers,” “Happier,” “How Would You Feel,” “Save Myself” and “Hearts Don’t Break Around Here.” Throughout his album, Sheeran uses a variety of genres to express several themes from dancing to the many people in his life. h
David Bowie:
I
Oberweis
mmediately after walking into Oberweis, I felt surrounded by the smell of tasty ice cream. The most important part of the visit– the ice cream– did not disappoint. The taste of caramel and coffee worked incredibly well together. h
American Teen
No Plan
R
(Photo courtesy of exclaim.ca)
ock icon David Bowie died Jan. 10, 2016. A year later, to celebrate Bowie’s 70th birthday, the world received a memorable parting gift: “No Plan.” Stunning and short, “No Plan” contains only four songs: “Lazarus,” “No Plan,” “Killing a Little Time” and “When I Met You.” The songs come from Bowie’s original musical “Lazarus.” Bowie begins this album with “Lazarus,” which was featured on his previous album, “Blackstar.” Mixing saxophone melodies and drum beats, Bowie describes his new-found freedom and his journey into heaven. His second song, “No Plan,” explains how Bowie had no regrets. “Killing a Little Time” follows “No Plan” and provides a more classic rock spirit. Bowie describes heartbreak and the pains of life throughout this piece. “No Plan” ends with “When I Met You,” which begins with synths and the calming patter of drums. Bowie describes the time when he met the love of his life and the pain involved in losing her. Layering guitar melodies and saxophone lines, Bowie’s “No Plan” creates a heavenly, dreamy feel. The artist mixes electronic pop and iconic rock in this final album to bring his exceptional music career to a close. h
Lily’s ice cream picks: (All photos by Lily Hauptman)
Khalid:
B
(Photo courtesy of genius.com)
K
halid, an R&B and soul musician, released his new album March 3, the same date Sheeran released “Divide.” Khalid is a 19-year-old Texas native, so the title of the album, “American Teen,” is fitting. This album highlights youth and the freedom of being a teenager. It addresses what the different experiences of his teenage years and Khalid’s relationships have taught him through soulful, R&B music. Most of the songs on “American Teen” relate love and technology. His songs “8TEEN,” “Young Dumb & Broke” and “American Teen” celebrate the teen spirit and the craziness of the adolescent years. Khalid incorporates the theme of technology in his songs “Saved” and “Location.” “Location,” a single that was released in 2016, describes love in the 21st century while using techno beats and strong drums. Khalid then explains why he saved his his ex-girlfriend’s phone number in “Saved.” The album utilizes the themes of young love and selfrevelation. The other songs in the album all address his love for certain individuals and the struggles associated with being young and in love. Khalid’s soothing voice and alluring beats help portray his idea of the life of an American teen. h
A review of three popular St. Louis sweet treat spots
Baskin-Robbins
askin-Robbins, a fan favorite, boasts about its wide variety of choices, so I decided to try a more unique flavor: chocolate hazelnut truffle. Chocolate fanatics will surely like this flavor, which features chocolate-covered hazelnuts. h
Y
Andy’s
es, Andy’s is technically not ice cream, but their custard is deserving of a spot in my favorites. I ordered a small concrete with hot fudge, and it tasted amazing. The menu includes seasonal specials that are also delicious. h
12
Senior Sit Down Each month, Panorama sits down with a senior athlete. This month’s featured player is golfer Reilly Ahearn.
panorama SPORTS Spring training struggles in the Cards Cardinals hope to assemble Cub-killing team after 2016 letdown go to the underwhelming Mike Leake and the injury-prone Michael Wacha. The Cardinals’ only additions are former closer Trevor Rosenthal, who is starting games during Spring Training, and Lance Lynn, who is returning from Tommy John surgery. But, as with all Tommy John patients, there is risk aplenty.
jackson BRY
A
sports writer
s the sun comes out and grass turns from brown to green, St. Louisans look for the birds to return from their winter sabbatical to once again curl their talons around the yellow bat.
Sam Shevitz: What was your favorite memory of playing golf for Ladue? Reilly Ahearn: Probably going to state with Coach Basler and Kinder [Jones] last year. We had some good laughs. SS: You won conference last year. What was that like? RA: It was pretty good. It was after the whole thing with Nick, so it was good to get the win in his honor. SS: What is your favorite course to play? RA: Boon Valley. It’s bent grass, which is my favorite to play off of, and it has a good layout. SS: What do you do to get in the zone? RA: I usually listen to music before a match or a tournament. That gets me focused. SS: As a senior, what is the difference between this year and last year? RA: I’ve really matured as a player since last year. I played in a lot of tournaments over the summer, so I have gotten more used to competing. SS: Do you have a postgame meal? RA: I always eat Chick-fil-A.
(Photos courtesy of Reilly Ahearn)
After suffering through the worst Cardinals season since 2008, not to mention the Chicago Cubs winning the World Series, Cardinals fans are ready for a comeback. Will the 2017 Cardinals be able to bounce back, or will they suffer through another abnormally average season like the 2016 team? Here are a few important things to look out for in the upcoming season:
will do great things for the Cardinals’ lineup. Fowler will bring much-needed speed and power into the leadoff position and will allow third baseman Matt Carpenter to move to the number three spot in the lineup. The combination of Fowler’s ability to get on base and the Cardinals’ .271 batting average with runners in scoring position will continue to be a threat to NL Central foes, including the Cubs.
• Bullseye Bullpen: Over the past few years, the Cardinals’ bullpen has been CLOSED DOWN w Striding toward home incredibly plate, Cardinals reliever Trevor Rosenthal pitches in stable. They an 8-0 win over the Nationals Oct. 10, 2012. Rosenhave continthal was replaced as the closer by Seung Hwan Oh ued to put up July 2016. (Photo courtesy of Keith Allison) good numbers despite high turnover. The • No Fowler Ball: Although only weak link of the bullpen last the departure of beloved left year was Trevor Rosenthal, who fielder Matt Holliday to the New was replaced as the closer by York Yankees stings, the RedSeung Hwan Oh. With returning birds are only losing an aging, veteran relievers such as Kevin declining superstar. The signing Siegrist, Matt Bowman and of former Cubs’ centerfielder Jonathan Broxton, the Cardinals’ Dexter Fowler over the offseason bullpen is solid.
• Farewell to Arms: After going through a subpar 86-76 season in 2016, the Cardinals’ starting pitchers must make improvements. However, the front office did nothing over the offseason to satisfy their needs. In fact, the starting rotation regressed during the offseason with the trading of Jaime Garcia to the Atlanta Braves and the season-ending elbow injury of top prospect Alex Reyes. These empty spots will most likely
• Gloves from Above: Yadier Molina is still behind the plate, meaning the Cardinals’ defense will continue to do great things. The only aspect that required major fixing was the outfield– more specifically, the left fielder. In the past season, Matt Holliday continued to be sluggish and make many crucial defensive errors. However, over the offseason his contract expired, which allowed Cardinals GM John Mozeliak to sign the defensively capable Fowler and return to a traditional Cardinals outfield. Fowler will allow them to make more critical defensive plays with powerful arms, helping their pitchers out. The only other slight concern with the defense is Aledmys Diaz’s lack of defensive prowess at shortstop; however, his ability with a bat in his hand adds a valuable piece to the puzzle that is this year’s roster. • Bottom Line: Only minor improvements have been made to the Cardinals’ lineup. The only major move over the offseason was the signing of Dexter Fowler, but the Redbirds need more. Because of this, the 2017 Cardinals will improve on their 2016 performance but must make some big personnel changes before the trade deadline to take down the reigning champs. •
Frosty Feats
glen MORGENSTERN sports editor
Ladue’s winter athletic teams had many remarkable accomplishments Ice Hockey
After an explosive 18-2-1 regular season, the hockey team beat Lafayette 5-4, Fort Zumwalt South 9-7 and Eureka 5-4 in the preliminary round. Then, in the quarterfinals, the team beat John Burroughs 10-3 and 5-3. In the semifinals, the Rams faced Fort Zumwalt South again. Though the Bulldogs tied the Rams 5-5 in the first game, Ladue came through with a 9-3 victory in game two. In the state finals, the Rams faced Westminster at the Scottrade Center. Though the Rams scored first, Westminster scored three in a row and took the trophy with a tight 3-2 victory. The Rams finished with a 24-3-2 record.
ICE COLD w Sliding the puck
past his defender, junior Zach Levy tries to get a pass into the goal area. (Photo by Luke Minkler) “Our season was amazing, and even though that [loss] was the outcome, we got to do something that everyone wants to do,” junior forward Jake Gould said. “I think it was really remarkable that we came together as a team to get there.”
Girls’ Swimming The Ladue girls’ swimming team qualified three relays to the state tournament and finished 13th overall out of 50 schools. Senior Sophia Garland, junior Riley Deutsch, sophomore Paige Mitchell and freshman Sophie Fredman swam the 400-yard freestyle relay and qualified to finals, where they finished in 15th. The 200-yard medley relay was composed of Garland, Fredman, junior Riley Deutsch and junior Leda Liang and came in 17th. The 200-yard freestyle relay composed of Liang, Deutsch, Mitch-
ell and Fredman came in 20th. Mitchell came in second individually in both the 200- and 500yard freestyle races. “I’m really proud of us,” Mitchell said. “I was also excited with my performance... It’s cool, as a sophomore, that there is always room to improve upon.” Ladue had a solid tournament but retains many underclassmen members. Of the team’s future goals, Mitchell has high hopes. “It would be pretty cool to be a state champion,” Mitchell said. (Photos by Sam Shevitz)
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SPORTS
Ladue dancers shimmy in the Sunshine State Laduettes return to Orlando for NDA dance competition, take sixth nationally in medium varsity hip-hop and poms categories
S
anik JAIN
sports writer
ix is a serious number, especially when it’s the national ranking of the Ladue dance team. The team competed in poms and hip-hop in the medium varsity division against the best high schools in the country at the National Dance Association Dance Competition in Orlando, Florida March 3-6. The team placed sixth in both events. Though the team won the national title in medium varsity hip-hop last year, this year’s result is equally, if not more impressive. Ladue’s sixth place finish in poms was their best result in Ladue history. To senior Wendi Medler, the team’s success speaks to the team’s adaptability to personnel changes. “It was amazing,” Medler said. “It was the best we could have done. Even though we won last year at nationals for hip-hop, the past doesn’t really reflect on who we are now as a team.” The team faced numerous difficulties going into the biggest tournament of the year. In addition to the departure of
Date
senior captains from last year’s title-winning squad, the team lost several key team members to season-ending injuries. “Our journey was very rough,” Medler said. “There were people who were injured
exemplifies the significance of winning a national title. With high expectations going into the tournament, the Laduettes had to take preparation to the next level. “We practiced Monday to Thursday about two and a half
SYNCHED IN w Perfectly poised, the Laduettes perform at
the National Dance Association Dance Competition March 4 in Orlando, Florida. They finished sixth in medium varsity poms and hip-hop. (Photo courtesy of Shirley Gelman)
and some who couldn’t come to some events, and we had new choreography. We had all these obstacles in our way, and we overcame all of them.” The amount of time and dedication that it takes day in and day out to reach a top position
hours per day, and sometimes there are extra practices on the weekends before a big performance or competition,” sophomore Ashley Byer said. In order to become nationally ranked, the Laduettes must practice meticulously. Despite
its status as one of the best high school teams in the country, the girls still prepare with an underdog mindset. “To prepare for nationals, we had to go through and ‘clean’ the dances every practice and make sure we fix all of the little details,” Byer said. “We also run the dances, or certain sections of them, a couple of times to make sure that we get them in our head and keep our endurance up.” Dancing itself requires the dancers to learn how to work together. With complicated routines, a team’s success in competition is measured by its ability to be on the same page and have its timing down perfectly. “Team cohesion is very, very important,” Byer said. “We spend a lot of time together, and there are a lot of times in the dances where we need to rely on each other.” Ultimately, the tournament was a success for the team. The experience will certainly be cherished by Medler. “This whole experience this weekend was just unreal to me,” Medler said. “As a dancer, and as a person being with people that I love, it was great.” •
13
Noteworthy Number
192 The number of points the Ladue hockey team’s top line, nicknamed the “Bro-mance line,” scored in total over the season. Senior Sam Shevitz led the state with 67 points, senior Jordan Stern scored 66 points and junior Zach Levy scored 59, leading the team to a 24-3-2 record and a trip to Scottrade Center for the Wickenheiser Cup final. “It was a life-changing experience,” Levy said. “I’ll always remember it. There’s nothing like it. Nobody else did anything like we did– it’s because we had so much chemistry. Our greatest strength as a line was the fact that we had no weaknesses.”
Mark Your Calendar Time
Sport
Opponent
Location
3/24
8:00 a.m.
Varsity Girls’ Soccer
Plainfield Central High
Quincy High School
3/24-25
9:00 a.m.
Varsity Track
Ft. Zumwalt West
Ft. Zumwalt West
3/27
4:00 p.m.
Varsity Boys’ Baseball
McCluer North
McCluer North
3/28
4:15 p.m.
JV Boys’ Baseball
Hazelwood West High School
Hazelwood West Diamond One
3/29
3:30 p.m.
Varsity Boys’ Golf
Mehlville High School
Highlands Golf Course
3/29
4:15 p.m.
Varsity Girls’ Soccer
Kirkwood High School
Ladue West Campus
3/30
4:00 p.m.
JV Boys’ Tennis
De Smet Jesuit High School
Ladue West Campus
3/31
4:00 p.m.
Varsity Water Polo
Rockwood Summit
Ladue High School
4/01
4:00 p.m.
Varsity Track
Holt High School
Holt High School
14
The senior superman
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OPINIONS
Staff Editorial
Excessive political correctness hinders progress
adanma ojukwu w ARTIST
I
aaron GREENBERG editor-in-chief
do all of my homework. I do all of my assigned readings, and I turn in all essays and projects on time– ok, I do most of it. I am also a senior in the middle of my final semester of high school, and I have been accepted into the college of my dreams. To some, this presents an oddity. The general attitude of the second-semester senior is that it no longer matters– most schools only rescind admission if there is a dramatic drop-off in student achievement in that terminal semester. Seniors feel, essentially, that they can skate by with a series of mediocre grades that, while unimpressive within the context of their past accomplishments, will not jeopardize their immediate future. That’s great for them. Honestly, I’m thrilled that they get to relax for a few months before that fateful first day of university classes. I have no such luxury. I don’t mean to say that I’m better than that; that would be untoward. If anything, I’m simply more high-maintenance and potentially more vain. My reasons for continuing to “go hard” during this final semester are manifold. Chiefly, I am excessively paranoid that if I slack even a little bit my college dreams will be ripped out from under me like a carpet. I reason that it’s better to work hard and provide myself assurance of my fate than to check out during the day but toss and turn at night wondering if I’m destroying everything I’ve worked toward for the last four years of my life. My second reason for continuing to give my all is actually borderline ridiculous: I want to. My first two years of high school were littered with apathy and indifference. I didn’t yet comprehend the importance of trivialities like individual homework assignments and single-point multiple choice questions. I thought that, no matter what, I’d be alright in the end, my lethargy notwithstanding. I was half right. I didn’t do terribly, but I could have done better. Finally, I picked it up junior year. I never got a late grade and I got As on almost every test, and although I was working harder and relaxing less, I felt internally better than I had at any point in the previous two years. I want to continue that feeling of productivity. I want to continue to be proud of even the simplest tasks. I haven’t earned a break senior year. From my perspective, I’ve already taken that break. Finally, I really don’t want to embarrass myself– that’s where the vanity comes in. I don’t want to show my teachers and peers that I’m the kind of person who only cares when the pressure is on. I want to show more integrity than that. It’s silly; it quite literally does not matter, but I still care. I care what people think of me, and I think that by showing them that side of me– the side of me that cares about loose ends– I’m showing them the best side. After all, this semester is the final impression many of these people will have of me, and I want that impression to be a good one. h
(This column represents the opinion of the writer)
While political correctness has been a controversial term in mainstream political discourse for decades, it has recently gained traction in education discussions as well. In its best form, PC aims to create an environment that is free of expressions intended to exclude or offend groups that are generally marginalized or discriminated against. Unfortunately, this notion can be misconstrued in a way that actually inhibits constructive conversations about social injustices, a fact that can be especially detrimental in classroom contexts. Earlier this year, the University of Chicago received backlash for releasing a statement regarding its stance on PC culture, asserting that the institution does not condone trigger warnings and safe spaces, both of which attempt to prevent students from directly facing potentially offensive discussion. The reason for such a stance, according to the statement, lies in the fact that the institution expects its community to be engaged in “rigorous debate, discussion and disagreement” that may challenge social ideals or even cause discomfort. One must admit: this statement retains considerable validity. Although campus PC is usually enacted with good intentions, it can– and does– lead to silent, unhealthy oppression, according to William Deresiewicz, a professor at Scripps College in California. Students become afraid to speak freely among their peers for fear of accidentally offending someone; teachers avoid discussing topics or teaching content that might lead to controversy or trouble. People resort to apps like YikYak or Whisper that allow them to anonymously say things they wouldn’t say using their own name.
These phenomena are simply physical manifestations of a serious societal flaw: overemphasizing PC creates a culture in which there is a right way to think and a right way to talk. Fundamental questions that an education should raise, such as what it means to be a good individual or society, are understood to have been settled. There is a silent assumption that we already possess the moral truth, and that hinders constructive discussion and understanding of differing perspectives. In reality, uncomfortable social issues should be spoken about openly and truthfully because they do exist and will continue to exist unless people can share and explain their ideas and feelings. Of course, this does not mean that people should start spewing every racial slur that comes to mind; in this, the concept of PC is beneficial to social learning environments. But if discourse is too frequently discouraged, then change and progress will rarely come about. The key idea about sharing ideas is to be respectful. If someone does offend someone else, the offended should be able to respectfully explain why they feel uncomfortable with their perspective. And the best place this interaction could possibly take place is in the classroom, not in the hallways.h
Corrections from 2/15
Pg. 3– Emilie Barrett was spelled incorrectly. Pg. 12– Matthew Redfering was pictured. Pg. 16– Sahana Raju was pictured.
(Unsigned editorials reflect the majority opinion of the Editorial Board.) aleesha shi w ARTIST
Should parents track kids’ phones?
YES
Tracking helps parents keep their kids safe
I
mackenzie HINES-WILSON opinions writer
n August 2015, a 15-year-old girl with Asperger’s syndrome was abducted and sexually assaulted in Texas, according to The Dallas Morning News. In most cases, parents would be frantic with uncertainty about their child’s whereabouts. However, this girl’s mother used the GPS tracking app installed in her child’s phone to determine her location and ultimately save her life. Without the use of this modern day technology, the girl may not have returned home to her friends and family safely. Today, parents can instantaneously locate their children through numerous tracking apps and services such as MamaBear, Life360, Canary and My Mobile Watchdog, according to USA Today. In addition to rescuing abducted children, these apps can be used to locate a lost child, track a teen driver and make sure the school bus arrives safely to school each day. Although the tracking may seem overbearing to the child, it can give parents peace of mind by assuring them that their children are safe when they are not around. Jessica Denay, a single-mother of a 12-year-old, can’t possibly know her child’s location at all hours of the day, considering that he goes to school, basketball practice and his dad’s house, according to TIME. “I can’t even describe how comforting it is,” Denay said. “It’s hard for moms to let go of our babies. This makes me feel better. I don’t have to be hovering right there, but I know that he’s safe.”
NO
Technological advancements have made tracking services more efficient and precise than ever. Apps such as AngelSense, for example, include a voice-monitoring feature that allows parents to listen in on their child’s surroundings. Though many of these apps were created for parents of children with special needs, they are not limited to that specific demographic. Parents suspecting that their child might be in a compromising situation can also use this feature to their advantage. This can be done at any time during the day but can be particularly useful during periods of close social interaction such as during lunch or on the school bus. The best part about GPS tracking is its unparalleled convenience, especially since GPS services are available on most smartphones. Not only do they not require children to activate the app on their phone before they use it, they also don’t allow children to see when their parents are using the service. Therefore, children will experience minimal disruption in their daily lives, and they can go about their usual activities without being reminded that they’re being tracked. GPS apps also compel teenagers to take more responsibility for their actions. Knowing that their parents are aware of their locations, teens may be less inclined to sneak out to a party or drive really far away. Of course, children and parents should consult with each other beforehand about the extent to which these apps will be used. However, there is no doubt that GPS tracking services are a technological advancement that can keep parents more at ease when they are not around their children. More importantly, they give parents and children more control over the unpredictable world. h
Kids develop better when parents trust them
Y
15
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OPINIONS
grace KIM
opinions writer
ou feel like no matter where you go, you’re never alone. Always watched, always tracked like some wanted criminal. Big Brother is watching you. Except it’s not Big Brother– it’s your parents, and that somehow makes things worse. With the widespread use of smartphones with GPS capabilities, parents can choose to track their children. However, such an action does more harm than good to both the child and his or her relationship with their parent. To begin with, tracking can send a message to the kids that their parents don’t trust them enough to stay out of trouble. According to the American Psychological Association, teens will naturally search for greater independence and autonomy while developing. Research has found that parents who are warm, communicative and reasoned raise teenagers who have higher rates of socially competent behavior, take fewer drugs and exhibit less anxiety or depression. Though parents may want to track for the safety and best interests of their children, it can be a breach of both the trust and privacy necessary in order to allow them to flourish and mature. Additionally, the level of communication between parent and child can be very influential in the development of a teenager. According to the National Center for Biotechnology Information, studies show that healthy parent-child communication produces children who are more independent, confident and socially competent and accepted. Choosing to track children in place of open, mutual communication can in-
hibit this healthy development and create more problems for both parties in the future. Rather than tracking students’ phones, it would be more beneficial to have honest discussions about each side’s feelings and concerns. Those who advocate for tracking may argue that it is necessary because teenagers have a tendency to rebel. However, according to studies published in The Journal of Youth and Adolescence, teenagers with low selfesteem have higher tolerance for deviant behavior while those with strong parental support are less likely to engage in rebellious behavior. By choosing not to track their children’s phones, parents could boost their children’s self-esteem and independence, thus decreasing children’s desire to engage in risky behavior. Others may argue that tracking helps to protect children and offers more support. Advocates say that if an accident occurs, tracking can assure the parents that the child is safe. Though it may help with the child’s safety, there are better ways to monitor it. Setting ground rules about safety, for example, can place realistic responsibility on the child in a way that respects the sense of independence and privacy that teens require. If parents are suspicious of deviant behavior, the best way to truly show they care is through personal interactions, not behind the screen of a phone. Teenagers need a healthy combination of nurture and independence, and this is violated when parents impose themselves on their child’s every move. Despite the fears and anxieties parents may have about a wandering child, it is evident that a supportive and honest relationship at home is the most beneficial way to keep children out of harm’s way. No spying, no tracking, no trouble. h
Polls of the People What was your favorite part about International Week? Read more about International Week on pg. 4.
Parade of Nations 19%
Student Showcase 9%
Mardi Gras Parade 12%
Other 15%
Peace Corp Talks 23%
Culinary Sampler 22%
How do you feel about parents tracking kids’ phones? Read more about phone tracking on this page.
0.8 0.7
67%
0.6 0.5 0.4
29%
0.3 0.2 0.1
4%
0.0
I don’t like it
I’m indifferent
I like it
What is your favorite ice cream place? Read more about sweet treats on pg. 11.
21%
of students said ‘Oberweis’
28% 17%
of students said ‘Baskin-Robbins’ of students said ‘Ben & Jerry’s’
34%
of students said ‘other’
(All surveys based on 252 people sampled.)
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panorama
Artists Around You Students showcase their various artistic abilities and creations
S
ome students play sports, some play music. Some cook, some sing, some sew, some read. But some students have unique artistic abilities that they practice in and out of the classroom. At Ladue High School, students are fortunate to have the opportunity to take art classes ranging from Painting I to Ceramics II, from Drawing I to AP Studio Art. These classes have helped ignite and nurture the interest and talent of many student artists. Here's a look at some of the artists around you.h
ARTIST AT WORK w (Right) Junior Emily Lesoro-
gol started taking art classes at school and enjoyed it; now she’s in AP Studio Art. Her current painting is inspired by “Valley of the Dolls,” one of her favorite books. “It’s super ‘60s, this slightly miserable but glamorous person staring at you straight on. I want it to be striking and interesting, and it morphed into this,” she said. Lesorogol gets her inspiration from museums, art books and her mind.
PHOTO michael BURKE photo editor
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TRASH TO TREASURE w
(Below) Junior Michael Luan has a different approach to finding his inspiration. “I usually just go out and find stuff that I find interesting, like one day I found a Starbucks cup with red lipstick on it, and I thought that was nice and decided to make art of it,” Luan said. His favorite pieces of art to make are his drawings. “I make my art at school because at home I do a lot of homework and stuff, so it’s good that I take AP Studio Art. It’s kind of like meditation in a way,” Luan said.
GIVE HER SOME SPACE w (Below) Junior Cami Conroy is a 3D animator. “In Computer Animation, I use the software LightWave. It comes with both Modeler and Layout: one program for creating the items and one program for moving them around and making it look good,” Conroy said. Her projects have varied. “I’ve animated two monsters; I’m currently working on a flame. I’ve animated outer space twice, and I’ve created two logos,” she said.
ZEN ZENTANGLES w (Above) Freshman
Anna Liner usually uses graphite and pen to create her artwork. “Almost everyone in my family is an artist, so I kind of just grew up with it,” Liner said. She took Drawing I and plans to continue taking other drawing classes and maybe even a painting class as she continues high school. She enjoys the drawing method called zentangle. “Zentangle is basically just extreme doodling,” Liner said. “I find it relaxing and basically you just doodle for as long as you want until it becomes a picture.”
I’M A LITTLE TEAPOT w (Above and right) Junior Sophie Sachs mainly does ceramics. “I’m signed up for an Independent Study which I am really excited about. I’m making a line of dishes, like functional pottery,” Sachs said. As for her two favorite pieces, the first one is the big green pot with stripes. It’s handmade, created by two separate pots put on top of each other, slipped and scored together. Her other favorite piece is the teapot. “It was actually made in five parts. I made the body, lid and spout on the wheel, and the handle and finial, the piece you grab on the lid, by hand,” she said.
ROSE ART w (Above left and left)
Junior Jessica Mueller mainly creates watercolor paintings. She began making art in fifth grade. “I started doing just pencil sketches, then I moved to colored pencil, and then did some ink drawings and then I started doing watercolors,” Mueller said. She takes private lessons and practices on her own during the week. “I do it as a hobby just for fun because I find it very therapeutic, but I can see myself doing it in college,” Mueller said.