Ram Report the
April 27, 2017
Ladue Horton Watkins High School
1201 S. Warson Road St. Louis, MO 63124
Peace out Students look forward to summer break Read more on pages 8-9
Table of Contents The Staff News
Jackson Bry 3 Summer construction Connie Chen Claire Englander DECA competes in Alex Fu Internationals Jack Glon Malavika Kumaran Adam Rush Bradford Siwak A Thaiste of St. Louis 6 Hannah Suffian Detective Rick Ramirez Anya Tullman Faculty Frivolities Adviser Sarah Semmel
Features 8 Concerts during finals week End of the year clubs Summer schedule
In-Depth 11 Keeping up with healthy habits
A&E 12 Feinberg family climbs Girls soccer
The Ram Report is an annual 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. The Ram Report 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 Jackson Bry. Photo by Bradford Siwak. Panorama April Edition Corrections Pg. 3- Connie Chen was identified as the writer instead of Cindy Wang.
Sports
Pg. 5- Symphonic percussionists are pictured, not upperclassmen.
14 Student voices
Summer homework Food for thought
Opinions
Our Policy
Pg. 3- Zach Busch was identified instead of Bradford Siwak. David Steiner, Trey Schwartz, Annie McNutt and Antonio Amore are sophomores. Sunny Lu and Celeste Lui are freshmen.
Brick by brick, construction continues
What to expect from construction in the coming years by Adam Rush
L
ast year, on April 5, 2016 a 64% win on Proposition R passed, funding new renovations on the high school. With $85.1 million allocated for the project, construction began the summer of 2016 and will continue throughout the next few school years. “[The difference between the schools will be] night and day,” Principal Brad Griffith said. “It will not be, in any sense of the word, looking like anything that we have right now. It will be completely different… [We’re going to be] renovating to the point where [the construction crew] is going to be knocking out walls.” According to Griffith the construction crew has completed what they intended to up to this point. Over the summer the crew will complete phase 1 of the construction, which will involve the temporary relocation of 44 classrooms. In addition to completing phase 1, the crew will also begin phase 2 over the summer. “[The] first day of next year [students] will walk into a front hallway that looks completely different,” Griffith said. “[Students] will walk into a breezeway that they have never seen before. They’ll see a renovated and completed band orchestra wing, [even though] it won’t be open. In the beginning part of next year [students] are going to see four completed classrooms. We will still have the trailers next year, and we have a clear sense of who [will] be [in the] trailers.” But teachers and students won’t be the only ones moving around next year. The entire building is receiving an overhaul, with many different positions and areas in the school being shuffled around. “[With] phase 2, we’re going to renovate the administrative area and move the school nurse into [the current office location],” said Griffith. We’re going to renovate counseling
X MARKS THE SPOT: Construction continues at Ladue. Construction began in the summer of last year after the city voted to Pass Proposition R. (Photo by Claire Englander)
[while] also moving the ceramics program on stage to the performing art’s center. That’s happening this summer.” While the district is currently happy with the timetable of the renovations, there have been some questions from freshman and sophomores about whether they will be able to attend school in the completed building. Most sophomores are hopeful but also skeptical that the construction will be finished before they graduate. “I’ve heard that the building will be finished by the time I’m a senior,” sophomore Riley Gage said. “But I’ve also heard that it won’t be [completed] until after I graduate, so I’m not sure what to believe.” According to Griffith, the timetable for the entirety of the project was and still is 27 months. While the project itself is on track at a macro level, there are a few minor components that are behind, but those components shouldn’t affect the timetable of the project. “If [you’re a sophomore] you will see the finalized product in your senior year,” said Griffith. “Freshman and sophomores current-
ly in the building will see a finalized product.” Despite most faculty and students being content with construction, even those who are excited about the project recognize that there have been a few issues with the construction. Those problems range anywhere from inconvenient locations of classrooms to limited parking spaces. “Although the transition to temporary classroom wasn’t as jarring as I expected, there are still some minor problems,” said sophomore Charlie Yeldham. “In my Spanish classroom, we are constantly subjected to the noises coming from the [machinery and other classes].” In addition to the district administrators being happy with the progress of construction so far, most students are also content with how construction is going. Despite at first being opposed to the idea, some students have come around to the idea of a new building. “I was definitely surprised at first that the school was potentially going to be renovated,” Yeldham said. “But the more I thought about it, the more it made sense... A new construction project was surely overdue.”
Breaking down the construction: A timeline of events for the renovations With phase 1 of the school construction completed; phase two of the renovations
Proposition R passes in the community with 64% voter approval
April 5, 2016
Summer of 2016 Construction on the school begins with the demolition of the west side of the building
Summer of 2017
Phase 3 of construction begins with the west side of the building opening
Summer of 2017 Phase 2 of construction, which is the moving of classrooms and administrative areas, begins
Winter Break 2017
Start of school 2018 44 temporary classrooms are permanently moved, finishing the three year renovation
News 3
TRIP DETAILS: DECA advisor Jessica Kennedy instructs DECA competitors on what their itinerary will be in Anaheim, California at a meeting on April 13. The students are required to fill out forms for the activities. (Photo by Connie Chen)
AWARDS: Ladue DECA members win awards at the state competition. There were many qualifiers for Internationals. (Photo courtesy of Michael Burke)
DECA heads to Internationals
DECA members take it to the next level for competition by Connie Chen
T
he Ladue DECA team is off to the International Career Development Conference (ICDC) that will take place April 26-29 in Anaheim, California. 15 students from Ladue qualified for ICDC, and the competition will include nearly 1,000 students from all around the world. There are many steps in order to compete in Internationals. First, a DECA member must start at the district level, which is a competition in February. Then that person will have to qualify in their event and place depending on their category. If that person qualifies, they head to state. Once they qualify in state, they head to Internationals. “In state, it’s pretty difficult to make it to Internationals because in state there was 1,800 kids there,” DECA advisor Jessica Kennedy said, “So to be able to place in the top of your category is a pretty amazing feat.” In DECA competitions, there are different
4 News
categories people can compete in. One option is to take an exam and when that person arrives at the competition, he or she does a role-play. A role-play is when a student receives a scenario and goes in front of a judge and says what he or she would do in that situation. Other people choose to write pre-written papers before the competition and then give a presentation during the competition. “Typically students take an exam and [do a roleplay in front of a] judge, and then these two scores are averaged together,” senior Leanna Feng said. “For the entrepreneurship events, students write business plans, [and] then present them to judges.” DECA usually has weekly meetings to prepare for competitions. There are many different methods for DECA members to achieve success in their category. Senior Diane Mwonga competes in the category Entrepreneurship Innovation Plan, and she is partners with Feng.
Future and past places for DECA competitions Districts on Feb. 7 in St. Louis
ICDC 2018 in Nashville, TN
ICDC 2017 in Anaheim, CA
ICDC 2019 in Atlanta, GA State was March 12-14 in Lake of the Ozarks
“We rehearse our presentation over and over again, and make sure we know our business plan from front to back,” Mwonga said. “Other people, if they take a test, usually do quizlets, flashcards [or go on to a website that is called] Competition University for practice.” The Ladue DECA team’s competition season starts in February, and it ends in April for Internationals. The DECA advisors incorporate DECA in their business classes and coor-
ICDC 2020 in Orlando, FL
dinate the competitions. The team mostly focuses on competitions. “I like the competitions the best,” sophomore Mya Danforth said. “I like the adrenaline you get, and the feeling [when you know you did well].” The school had a budget for DECA and was able to pay for districts and state. Since it’s very expensive because the team will be flying to Anaheim, California, the students have to pay a portion of the expenses this year, and the school covers the rest.
While in California, they are also planning to go to the beach, Universal Studios and possibly Beverly Hills. Many students are excited for those who are going to ICDC. “I was really excited for [the people who will be competing in ICDC] because I knew they worked really hard to make it,” sophomore Kelly Phung said. “You only know them from school, but then seeing them compete and doing really well in placing is really amazing to see.”
La Barge retires; new activity director found With the activity director retiring, students can expect to see two new faces at LHWHS by Burke Howe
O
n July 3, Greg Baber is going to take over the new role of Activities Coordinator while Nick Gianino will take over the role of Activities Director from Sweeney La Barge, who is retiring. La Barge took over the job this year because the school district asked him to step in for a year. “They asked me to do it,” La Barge said. “I was teaching science, AP environmental and earth science classes last year. And they needed someone to fill this position and so they asked me if I would go for it for a year and so I did.” La Barge has been working in the Ladue School District for 22 years and is well known by most teachers and students. “This has been my home away from home. I
“
love this place,” La Barge said. As Activities Director, La Barge runs the district’s athletics and works with activities by scheduling game times and locations and finding referees and places for activities to practice at. “I’m in charge of running all of the athletics for the school district and the activities I work with as well,” La Barge said. Once he retires, Nick Gianino, who has worked as Activities Director at Fox High School for six years, will take over his position. Greg Baber will be taking the job of Activities Coordinator. The position is new, meaning the exact details of the job haven’t been worked out. However, Baber is excited to take over his new role.
This has been my home away from home. I love this place. -Sweeny La Barge
“I’m looking forward to evolving and looking at new challenges,” Baber said. “I think change in that regard is good. You don’t ever want to get into a routine.” Baber has been working in the school district for ten years, spending six of them as the principal at Ladue Middle School. Some of Baber’s former students have voiced their opinions on having him as the new Activities Coordinator. Freshman Lauren Cedergreen went to Ladue Middle School, so she’s familiar with Baber. “I’m interested in seeing what he will do as the Activities Coordinator,” Cedergreen said. Baber is looking forward to seeing his former students again and is up for the challenge of taking on a new position, both for himself and the school. “I appreciate the opportunity and look forward to serving in this role for the next couple of years,” Baber said.
A look at the remaining days Monday
24
1
Tuesday Wednesday Thursday
25
2
Chamber Orchestra Concert 7-9 p.m. in the PAC
26
27
3 Make up ACT
Friday
28
Weekend
29-30
Band Concert 7-9 p.m. in the PAC
Student One Acts 7-9 p.m. in the PAC
Student One Acts 7-9 p.m. in the PAC
4
5
6-7 LAASA brunch on Saturday
AP EXAMS
8
9
10 Last day of class for seniors
11 SENIOR FINALS Seniors’ last day of school
12 Senior community service day
13-14 Mother’s Day on Sunday
AP EXAMS
15
16
W8 FINAL
17
Graduation Rehearsal 1 p.m.
B1 + W2 FINAL
18
19 Last day of school
W6+B7 FINAL
W4+B5 FINAL
20-21 Graduation at 7:30 p.m. on Sunday News
5
Sit Down With Rick Ramirez
A Q & A session with Ladue’s new SRO.
A Thaiste of St. Louis Rengsomboon adjusts to life in America after moving from Thailand by Malavika Kumaran
MALAVIKA KUMARAN: What is your job at Ladue? RICK RAMIREZ: I am currently the school resource officer assigned to the school district. MK: What do your responsibilities as an SRO include? RR: My first responsibility is to be a liaison between the school district and the police department. MK: What made you want to become a police officer? RR: As a young policeman, I wanted to work with juvenile delinquents, the youth. MK: How long have you been working in the field? RR: 10 years with Ladue and with the city police department for 10 years. MK: Do you have any personal goals or hopes for your time as an SRO? RR: I think my biggest hope and goal is to make a difference in students’ lives and also to show them that having a School Resources Officer is a pretty neat opportunity. [Students] can come in any time and talk to me if [they] have something on [their] minds. It lessens that gap between teenagers and police. It gives [students] a different perspective than what you see on TV.
6 Features
All of a sudden, everything is different. You scan the faces around you, but you don’t see anyone you recognize. The food doesn’t taste like what you are used to and no one can speak to you in your own language. You have a hard time remembering where the bathroom is and accidentally place your left hand on your chest instead of your right during the Pledge of Allegiance. You are experiencing a whole new culture, a whole new way of life. Would you ever be able to adjust? This is what sophomore Nirapada “NiNe” Rengsomboon went through just last year when she moved from Thailand to St. Louis, Missouri. She started at Ladue September of her freshman year. Rengsomboon didn’t speak any English before moving to America. “On my first day of school, I couldn’t talk to people that much,” Rengsomboon said. “It was so hard. My other ESL friends and exchange students helped me find my way around.” ESL stands for English as a Second Language and is a program in many schools across the country. Rengsomboon’s ESL teacher, Carol Sue Allen, has been teaching at Ladue since 1992. “The ESL program is a federally mandated program designed to help students, who now live in the U.S. and speak languages other than English, to learn to speak, read, write and understand spoken English,” Allen said. “As an ESL teacher, I provide instruction at various levels of English language development. Nirapada has been my student going on two years now. I see her and work with her almost every day.” Rengsomboon has made a lot of progress in learning English since she first arrived in the U.S. Allen says that watching a student’s learning process is one of the most enjoyable parts of her job. “[NiNe] works hard and has improved her English skills through instruction, study and immersion. I learn so much from my students and have the opportunity to witness how much their English proficiency
With friends: Hanging out with friends after a school event in Thailand, sophomore NiRengsomboon (second from left) poses for a picture. Rengsomboon and her friends were at an eighth grade graduation.
increases in just a few short months and years. I am the facilitator who guides them through the ESL program. The students have to put forth the effort to learn as much as they choose,” Allen said. Though a student must put in the effort to learn English, an ESL teacher is very influential in the transition for a student new to the country. According to Allen, an educator must anticipate the student’s questions and concerns about their new city and culture. “I have to be more than an English instructor. In order to be most helpful to a new student, one must stand in that student’s shoes,” Allen said. “I often ask myself, ‘What would I need to know if I were placed in a high school setting where I didn’t speak the language; wasn’t familiar with the day-to-day schedule. didn’t know what to expect from my classes and teachers, hadn’t eaten American food before and had no clue how to get through the ‘cafeteria experience;’ or didn’t know anyone?’ I not only work with the student in my class, but often with their family members, to help them adjust and feel that they are an important part of the Ladue community and school family.” Though she receives support from her ESL friends and teacher, Rengsomboon doesn’t always find it easy to adjust. High school is a difficult time for many students as it is, with
the inherent pressure to get good grades, score well on standardized tests and prepare for college. Coming in to high school as someone new to the country invariably comes with further challenges. “Making friends was really challenging, since I came here during high school. It’s hard because everyone already knows each other,” Rengsomboon said. However, many students have reached out to Rengsomboon to include her and get to know her. Sophomore Megan Ross has become one of Rengsomboon’s good friends over the course of the past year. They met each other in Biology class their freshman year. “I talked to her in biology and tried to include her,” Ross said. “She texted me a paragraph and asked me to edit it, and I felt good knowing she was willing to ask me for help, and that I helped her to speak better English.” For Rengsomboon, the many choices available to her at Ladue were what she was looking forward to in America. Though it takes time to fully adjust to a new country, Rengsomboon knows what she needs to do to find peace within herself. “I know what I want to do in the future. I can be a doctor, nurse or teacher,” Rengsomboon said. “I really enjoy school here because I can choose whatever I want.”
Staff participates in Faculty Frivolities Staff hosts auction in support of LAASA scholarship fund by Hannah Suffian When school comes to mind, most students social studies teacher Shante Lyons said. immediately think of stress, homework and While creating a sense of community, Facexams. However, the teachers at Ladue have ulty Frivolities raises money for a very good many hidden talents and abilities that most of cause. Last year, the auction raised around the student body do not know about. $2,987. This year they raised a grand total of Each year, teachers selflessly and generously $3,123.34. donate their skills in order to raise money “The money goes to the LAASA scholarfor scholarships. Faculty Frivolities showcasship fund, which is the African American es many items donated by the teachers and achievement group programmed around gives members of the Ladue school district supporting African American students and community an opportunity to bid on different academic achievements,” Lyons said. “Every items and services. Although the program year that money is divided among the top may seem to be new, high achieving students It is a great way to it has existed since the who are college bound, and early 90s at Ladue. both raise money and supports their financial “This was a fundraiser needs to make that college reveal the hidden that was used in the late acceptance happen.” talents of the faculty. Supporting the students 90s to raise money for a theater trip,” social at Ladue is important. At -Robert Good studies teacher and the same time, students can sponsor Robert Good said. learn more about their teachers through the That is exactly what the staff aims to do year event, and they look forward to the auction after year. By displaying the talents, the staff year after year. tries to bring the Ladue community together. “My family looks forward to [Faculty Frivol“It is a wonderful opportunity to build comities] every year,” sophomore Stephen Bowen munity within the building and to provide said. “We bid on all different items, and I love scholarship funding for our brilliant students,” winning them.”
“
One big reason for the high bids on many items is the limited number of items and services offered by the faculty. These range from tennis lessons to cultural meals with teachers. “There’s dinner with Dr. Good, and room painting by Mr. Tarpey. There’s an opportunity to get pampered with a pedicure and manicure with Mrs. Powell. I offer a Liberian lunch, there’s golf with Mr. Hill and Mr. Westerholt,” Lyons said. “There’s a multitude of opportunities for students or anyone within the Ladue community to take advantage of.” The future for Faculty Frivolities looks bright. As the renovation of Ladue Horton Watkins High School progresses, opportunities to fundraise will increase. “This year we had the most offerings ever, but the lack of announcements hurt us, so I hope that the new building will allow for even more participation,” Good said. Overall, students have many opportunities to support each other, our school and our community. Faculty Frivolities makes students appreciate the skills and contributions teachers make on our behalf. “I see it growing with added faculty support, a new building and new attitude,” Lyons said.
Sweet as honey: Each year Eric Hahn donates local honey (hahny) to the Faculty Frivolities fundraiser. The auction raised money for the LAASA scholarship fund.
Features 7
School’s out
The final concerts
Multiple major concerts come to disrupt your finals studies Spread and stories by Bradford Siwak
F
inals: many hate them. Concerts: many love them. But what do people feel about the two together? Students must confront feelings like these when they decide whether or not they should attend their favorite artists’ performances during the week of finals. Multiple talents will be coming to St. Louis on the school nights of the week during which Ladue Horton Watkins High School celebrates learning with mandatory final exams.
The nights of last-minute opportunities to study and performances start with Chance the Rapper on May 14, and end with The Chainsmokers on May 18, only a few days before the year’s end. Chance the Rapper, who will perform on the Monday night, has over 11,000,000 monthly listeners on Spotify. Chance the Rapper is known for his unique musical styles and variation in his music. He has made party music, catchy upbeat songs, songs with rich
vocal chords, slower songs and even a song on “The Hamilton Mixtape.” The Chainsmokers will perform on Thursday night. The duo are some of the most popular artists on the planet, with over 40,000,000 monthly listeners on Spotify. Kiiara and Whethan, who have substantial followings of their own, will perform with The Chainsmokers. On top of their immense popularity, The Chainsmokers drive more excitement from their new album, which was
released on April 7. Although some students immediately brushed off the idea of attending a concert during finals week, others are unphased by the shortened study time. Freshman Jill Goldwasser is considering attending both the Chance the Rapper and the Chainsmokers concerts. Goldwasser knows that the concerts will make studying more difficult, but she thinks she can manage. “I go to a lot of concerts and most of them have
been on school nights,” Goldwasser said. “I’ve been able to function pretty well after, and I could study for a few hours after school ends because it’s a half day.” On top of making the decision for themselves, students must pass the final threshold of their parents’ approal. “My parents know that music and concerts are my life but that I’m also a responsible student who has proven I can do well after only a few hours of sleep,” Goldwasser said.
Celebration for concluding clubs
Clubs celebrate the start of summer as school comes to a close Feminist Coalition
“We [had] an end of the year party with food. It’s very chill because we know people have tests coming up, so a space to just relax with friends and eat is nice. We also [set] up executive officers for next year.” -Junior Pardes Lyons-Warren
Gender-Sexuality Alliance
“For the end of the year we want this [meeting] to be a combination of the usual fun stuff plus more cake. We have leftover temporary tattoos and stickers. And cake.” - Junior Paige Overton
Keeping cool: how to beat the summer heat Lay off the caffeine.
Change the sheets.
Get low.
Caffeine increases blood flow and makes you feel warmer.
Lighter sheets make for less sticking-out feet.
If indoors go to the lowest level to avoid the rising heat.
8 In-Depth
t for summer Summer Schedule A look into some of St. Louis’ star-studded summer events •“Rent” May 19-21 at the Fabulous Fox Theatre • The St. Louis African Arts festival May 27-29 at the World’s Fair Pavilion • Shakespeare in the Park June 2-24 at Forest Park • Fair St. Louis Independence Day Celebration July 2-4 • “Jesus Christ Superstar” June 12-18 at The Muny • John Legend Darkness and Light Tour June 15 at the Fabulous Fox Theatre • Disney’s “The Little Mermaid” June 20-29 at The Muny • Florida Georgia Line: The Smooth Tour June 25 at the Hollywood Casino Amphitheatre • “A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum” July 5-11 at The Muny • “All Shook Up” July 13-19 at The Muny • “The Unsinkable Molly Brown” July 21-27 at The Muny • “Mama Mia!” July 28-30 at the Fabulous Fox Theatre • “A Chorus Line” July 29-Aug. 4 at the Muny • “Newsies” Aug. 7-13 at The Muny • Idina Menzel Aug. 15 at the Fabulous Fox Theatre • Festival of Nations Aug. 26-27 at Tower Grove Park
The Peoples’ Polls
Going to a concert on finals week?
13.6% 15.2% 19.7%
51.5%
No
Undecided
Would
Yes
Do you have a summer job?
59.8% 40.2%
Yes
No
Where in the world are you going this summer?
No students going to this country 1-2 students
4-6 students 7+ students
2-3 students (First survey based on 66 students sampled. Second survey based on 244 students sampled. Third survey based on 61 students sampled.)
In-Depth 9
Ladue Horton Watkins Higdh School
PUBLICATIONS It’s not too late to join! Publications 2017-2018 Class Offerings Ladue Panorama Newspaper
Broadcast I: First or second semester
Practical arts credit
Broadcast II: Second semester
Practical arts credit
Introduction to Media: First semester
Practical arts credit
Journalism I: Writing: First semester
Choice between Practical arts or English credit
Journalism II: Editing and Publishing: Second semester
Choice between Practical arts or English credit
LadueLead Website and LHS TV & Films
10 Ads
Rambler Yearbook
Keeping up with healthy habits
An inside look at the healthiest dines in St. Louis by Anya Tullman
Grab some greens in Clayton
The first stop on my healthy food mission was Wicked Greenz. Wicked Greenz opened in Clayton in September of last fall and is every salad lover’s dream come true. It specializes in homemade salads that can also be turned into wraps upon request. There are 11 options, ranging from a classic caesar to a “siesta” salad with corn salsa and pico de gallo. During my visit, I ordered a small avocobbo salad, Wicked Greenz’s twist on a traditional cobb salad, for $6.00. The avocobbo comes with avocado, applewood bacon, bleu cheese crumbles, chopped egg, red onion, grape tomatoes, roasted bell peppers and sweet basil ranch. I was very satisfied with the salad’s taste. As an avid salad eater, I appreciated the texture as well as the blend of tastes in the avocobbo. Additionally, the ambience of Wicked Greenz is modern, and the walls are lined with different plant breeds. If you are looking for an easy, healthy meal that simulates the experience of a fast food restaurant, then Wicked Greenz is the place for you.
Sip a smoothie on Manchester
Next, I headed on over to the Juice Bar on Manchester Road. The Juice Bar specializes in healthy drinks, from kale and spinach juices to “berry good” smoothies with blueberry, banana and strawberry. After seeing many reviews on Facebook and Instagram and wondering what the big fuss was about, I decided to order an acai bowl for $9.75. Acai bowls come with acai puree, banana, organic almond milk, almond butter, strawberries, blueberries, chia seeds, hemp seeds, coconut flakes, cacao nibs, goji berries, bee pollen and local honey. Finally, the bowl is topped with granola. Although it seems like an overwhelming order of a strange combination of foods, the acai bowl did not let me down. It was refreshing and healthy at the same time, and the acai puree on the bottom acted like a smoothie to balance out the other ingredients. In addition to having a wonderful menu, Juice Bar’s decor is very quaint and bright, a great environment to sip smoothies with close friends.
Feast on fresh veggies in UCity
For my final stop, I decided to venture outside of my comfort zone at Frida’s in University City. Frida’s is a cafe that offers vegetarian and vegan options including veggie burgers and vegan quesadillas. Upon sitting down, I was served mango and strawberry water, which was a distinctive yet enjoyable taste. After browsing the menu, I decided to order a mushroom avocado wrap for $9.50. The delicious combination of mushrooms, avocado, tomato, white cheddar, red pepper, spinach, homegrown organic clover sprouts and mayo was served on a multigrain wrap and was served with a mixed green salad on the side. The mushroom avocado wrap was my favorite item of the day, and the meal in Frida’s was very enjoyable. In the corners of the restaurant there are plants and in the middle of each table a single rose. Between Frida’s charming decor and wonderful options for a meal, it is the ideal place for a healthy eater.
A&E 11
Ladue serves up a new club Timothy Schuessler creates a boys’ volleyball club, the first in Ladue history
Climbing to the top
Sophomore Manley Feinberg III and freshman Lizzy Feinberg have a hobby in the outdoors by Jackson Bry
W Spiked: Sophomore Ethan Belau practices his serve with the new Ladue boys volleyball club April 12. The new club focuses on introducing male athletes to the sport of volleyball. (Photo by Claire Englander)
JACKSON BRY: What is the boy’s volleyball team? TIMOTHY SCHUESSLER: It’s what we want to make it, what the student are looking to make it. Right now we are at having a couple open gyms after school that way we can get students that are interested in volleyball together at the same time learning how to play and seeing what skills they have and learning overall how to play the game, how it works.
hile some families choose to spend their summers lounging on the beaches of Mexico, the Feinbergs choose to spend their summers rock climbing, mountain biking and camping. The Feinbergs have been to places like Yosemite National Park, Red Rock State Park and other spots around the country. Ladue sophomore Manley Feinberg III and freshman Lizzy Feinberg started rock climbing at a very young age. Because their father has always been an avid outdoors-man, he figured he would begin their training early. “[Nature is] something I love and am very passionate about, and it’s given me great joy in my life, so I wanted to share it with them,” their father, Manley Feinberg II, said. “It changed my life to get
into the outdoors so it was definetly something I wanted to get them into at a young age.” Additionally, instead of just being an intense workout for the Feinbergs, it’s also a chance for them to bond with one another. It gives them an opportunity to go out in nature, away from technology and just be with each other, which allows for some bonding. “We are all together and it is really special to be in nature without electronics and go through fun memorable things like climbing and just spending the days outside,” Lizzy Feinberg said. As well as just making the family closer, these experiences give them a chance to build trust for one another. For the Feinbergs, trust is extremely important while participating in these dangerous sports.
“You have to trust the people you’re with,” Manley Feinberg III said. “When you’re climbing, the only thing holding you up on the line is the person who’s down at the bottom belaying you.” At the end of the day, after they have used time to build trust and bond with one another, it is time for the Feinbergs to take in some views. The hard work they put in and the experience of doing it with their family makes their journey that much more enjoyable and memorable. “There are no other sports in the world that will put you on top of a rock the size of a house with your family and you’re looking around like, ‘oh my god,’” Manley Feinberg III said. “The feeling’s insane. You’ll never get anything like that with any other sports.”
JB: Are there boys’ volleyball teams in St. Louis that you guys are going to play in games? TS: At the moment I don’t know of anyone that we would really play against. We are thinking of taking a trip to maybe go see two other schools play each other that actually have official teams. If another team had a club we could maybe arrange a game with them or an open gym. JB: Are you at all interested in making it an official team instead of just a club? TS: I have coaching experience at the high school level with girls and boys and I coached varsity at Ritenour last year and JV the year before that, so I am definitely interested in a couple years making a team if we could get the funds and the support for a team.
12 Sports
Peaked: Manley III, Lizzy and Manley II Feinberg pose on top of Cathedral Peak in Yosemite National Park, California. (Photo courtesy of Manley Feinberg III)
Passed up: Sophomore Hadley Cytron passes the ball through Westminster defenders April 19. Ladue varsity girls’ soccer team defeated Westminster’s team 1-0 in a shutout win at Ladue. As of April 19, the team is 9-2.
Cytron cuts through competition
Sophomore Hadley Cytron leads varsity girls’ soccer in goals by Claire Englander
S
ophomore Hadley Cytron is one of the top goal scorers on the Ladue girls’ soccer team. With 11 years of experience, Cytron is a veteran soccer player who attributes much of her athletic success to her soccer loving family. “My dad taught me everything I know about soccer and my brothers were super competitive with me growing up and pushed me to do my best,” Cytron said. Cytron is catching the eye of college recruiters around the country. Despite the attention of colleges, Cytron is working to improve her skills to become an even better player. “You can never stop improving,” Cytron said. “There is always work to be done.” Cytron’s dedication to the sport of soccer makes her a natural leader who contributes
more than goals to the Ladue soccer team. “Hadley is one of our hardest worker on the team and leads by example,” varsity girls’ soccer coach Dave Aronberg said. “She routinely puts in extra time before and after practice getting extra touches on the ball and running. It is this work ethic that helps her lead.” For Cytron, being a leader is much more than just being a reliable teammate, but being a caring friend as well. That means, being a friend both on and off the team. Sophomore teammate Kate Valeriote began playing soccer with Cytron in kindergarten and has been at her side as both a teammate and a friend. “She’s one of the best people I have ever met, she is so nice,” Valeriote said. A teammate respected for her kindness and competitive nature, Cytron is set on reaching
Cytron’s soccer stats
9
goals
her goals and helping her teammates reach theirs too. Cytron takes coaching critiques very seriously and is not afraid to help her teammates with improving their game. “She is very coachable and wants to constantly improve,” Aronberg said. “She is very competitive, which helps drive her to greatness.” Respected by peers and adults, Cytron has a huge support system that motivates her to strive for success. With dreams of playing soccer professionally in her mind, Cytron is ready to face the challenges that come along with being a competitive athlete as well as the ones posed by being a student. “Sometimes it gets really hard and I wonder why I’m doing it,” Cytron said. “But then I remember I love it.”
(As of April 19, through 11 games)
4
assists
33
shots
Sports 13
Staff Editoral Students need more say in school policy decisions
O
ver the past few years many new policies have been implemented in the Ladue School District. All of these have the greatest effect on the students, but the students are not involved in making these decisions. Faculty members are key to invoking changes that, more often than not, will affect students more than themselves. For example, although the Ram Day altered the schedules of teachers’ lessons, it added even more stress to the already overbearing nights of homework that are a commonality in the life of a student. Despite many complaints from students who are hit the hardest with an absurd workload, the Ram Day is still in effect, and seems as though it will be for many years to come. Recently, a meeting was held for rising juniors and seniors regarding parking for the 2017-18 school year. Although it was eventually reverted back to the old system, the students were first notified that parking for
the upcoming school year would be a free-forall. Instead of having assigned spots, it will be first-come, first-serve, and students will be fighting for the most ideal parking spots. This news came as a shock to students and was immediately followed by an uproar from incoming juniors and seniors alike. They remarked that this system would be hazardous and could potentially cause many accidents in the school parking lot. Additionally, it would be all too easy for sophomores and other students without a parking pass to occupy a spot, leaving registered parkers with no spot. The complaints were met with stern disapproval, and students were told that this is the way it will be next year, no exceptions. The next day, an email was sent out informing students and parents that the system would be changed back to the original system and apologizing for any inconvenience or worry this may have caused. Many students became frustrated, feeling that
they had no voice because the policy was only changed after parents complained; the opinions of the students were not taken as seriously. However, students’ voices are not always ignored. In the months leading up to the vote for the high school renovations, there was a student board that was involved in the details and plans for the construction. They were given important documents and were able to voice their opinions freely. If something like this were more frequent, students would not feel so frustrated. A simple student panel that is elected annually to be included in large district decisions would benefit all. One of Ladue’s primary teachings is the importance of one’s voice in society. However, how can we learn how to express ourselves if we are not represented fairly in our own school? The voices of the students of the Ladue School District must be seriously considered before actions are taken that will affect them.
Parking Problems: During the parking meeting on March 15, students voiced concern about the new parking system, but many felt their words went unheard. (photo by Claire Englander)
14 Opinions
Art
by J
ack
Glo
n
Food for thought
a dinner dilemma Alexander Fu
“What did you eat for dinner last night?” Some won’t think their dinner of spaghetti, burritos or Taco Bell is too special. Others may giddily explain their evening feast down to the ingredients, and some might simply have forgotten. The question isn’t hard, but I oddly find myself confused as to exactly what other people eat for supper. Because of my origin, I mostly eat Chinese food at home. My family sits down at the table, each with a bowl of rice, and several dishes display themselves in the center. We eat fried rice or noodles when the house chef feels lazy. However, when the question of what a typical American family eats for dinner arises, none of my theories seem certain. Do other families eat from one big pot? Do they take their individual shares to the table? What about celebratory foods? How many kinds of meats do they eat? Do they have dessert? Does everyone eat together? How many times do families eat out? When I sit down for dinner, pondering these questions, I sometimes get the impression that mine is a unique experience.
My non-Chinese peers in past years stated how they ate their mom’s amazing pasta, or they went out to an amazing pizza place, but there’s a certain sense of pride that develops when I think of all the things I’ve eaten. Not many have tried Chinese fried duck, nor have many eaten the Chinese equivalent of American ribs: páigŭ. These cultural differences creates so many personal speculations about the lives of other students. Likewise, there are appealing American foods I don’t believe I’ve tried. Casseroles, pumpkin bread and stuffing are but a few examples. Holiday foods like Thanksgiving and Christmas don’t find their way on my plate, as I don’t typically celebrate Western holidays. Despite the culinary differences residing in each household, the underlying meaning behind dinner is the same. Dinner represents the resolution of a long day, where everyone can satisfy themselves with their favorite foods. I think it’s important to realize why you sit down with your family every day and talk over dinner. Each dish is as interesting and unique as another.
Should teachers assign summer homework?
YES
Summer homework keeps students’ minds engaged over the break
Polling the People What do you think about the construction pace so far?
by Anya Tullman
After finals are over, students rejoice in the summer sun, relieved to be free of the pressures of tests and homework. It’s no secret that no one wants to complete hours of summer assignments. However, there are many benefits to summer work. Over the summer, it is all too easy for the knowledge that students spent all year learning to slip away only to be replaced by pool parties and summer concerts. Summer homework in small amounts can help to stimulate teenagers’ minds and improve their study skills while away from the classroom. According to the United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization, “Research shows that students on average score
NO
lower on standardized tests at the end of summer than they do on the same tests at the end of the school year.” This is because their minds are not used to interpreting test questions and data. If teachers assigned summer homework, the ideal student would gradually do it over the break and be fully prepared and engaged come the first week of school. Students that neglect the responsibility of summer homework, however, experience more stress at the beginning of the semester, which can lead to a downward spiral of uproductive habits. Another beneficial way to continue positive intellectual habits is by summer reading, either assigned for a class or merely for pleasure. Re-
searches at UNESCO claim that “Reading just 4-5 books during the summer can prevent a decline in a child's fall reading scores.” Reading is an easy and often enjoyable way to keep the mind stimulated over a long summer break Many do not support the principle of summer homework. They believe that a year filled with nonstop school work should come to a halt in the summer to give students’ minds a rest. However, summer homework is necessary in order for a student to have a successful school year ahead. It is also important to keep one's thinking skills intact over the extensive summer break. As long as students are productive with it, summer work is very beneficial.
Students deserve a mental break after nine months of tireless studying
Read about construction on pg. 3.
Content 18%
Other 4%
Indifferent 46%
Impressed 11% Upset 21%
What would you bid on for Faculty Frivolities? 60
Read about Faculty Frivolities on pg. 7. 55%
50 40 30
26%
by Alexander Fu 20
The current school year approaches the end, and final exams remain in the darkest depths of students’ minds until the last possible moment. Yet, when the long summer break begins, teachers give students stacks of math problems to solve, languages to translate and book lists to comb through. The sheer amount of work students are expected to complete serves mostly as busywork. Students should be given less summer assignments to unwind from the stress of the school year. Homework is assigned nearly every day of the school year, and students already lose time for sleep and enjoyment to keep their grades at an acceptable standard and survive through semester exams. With summer break being the longest period of
time away from any classrooms and desks, it should also be the longest time students don’t worry about stressful deadlines. While learning loss statistics compiled by Oxford Learning state how youths lose two to three months of math skills or how new school years begin with weeks of reteaching concepts, forcing students to finish packets and essays to not lose their “academic knowledge” is unnecessary. According to Denise Pope, senior lecturer at the Stanford University School of Education, “In order for any learning to be retained, there has to be engagement on the part of the students.” The lack of motivation many teens have towards summer work makes the purpose of any packet
near worthless. Summer homework does allow students to retain material they’ve learned from the past year. Without proper review of concepts for the next school year, students’ reading and math abilities begin deteriorating. They may then find it difficult to adjust themselves to the new semester where the expectations are higher. However, giving students too much work creates stress to use weeks of their break to finish papers and books. Summer work can be reduced to short, concise reviews that refresh the general concepts learned from the previous year. Otherwise, breaks should be the time students can relax and enjoy the weather at home or during vacation.
13% 10 0
6% Cookies Driving from Dr. lesson Good from Coach Harder
Honey Tutoring from from Mrs. Durham Dr. Hahn
What food would you prefer for dinner?
Read about dinner foods on pg. 14.
35% of students said "pasta" of students said "sushi"
13% of students said "barbecue" of students said "chicken"
11% of students said "tacos"
of students said "other"
Opinions 15
Picture Perfect Pets Ladue students and faculty pose with their unique pets in honor of National Pet Day by Claire Englander
Check out LadueLead.com for more stories online A Man’s Best Friend: Sophomore Carson Acree poses with dog Chloe. Chloe is a 3-yearold mixed breed who loves the outdoors.
Double the Love: Freshmen Simone and Celeste Liu pose with pet hedgehog Yin-Yang. Yin-Yang is 5 years old and is named for his brown and white quills on his back.
Just Keep Swimming: AP World History teacher Eric Hahn poses with class pet Quagmire. Quagmire is Hahn’s second fish and was named by AP World students in an class wide vote at the beginning of the year. Flying High: Senior Sophia Garland poses with her bird Sky. Sky is one of Sophia’s three birds. Sky is the father of the other two smaller birds. The three birds all live together in one cage and enjoy flying together when they get a chance.