Cycle 6

Echo

UPCOMING WINTER SHOW

BOYS’ SWIMMING WINS

‘BLACK MIRROR’ REVIEW

Student directors prepare for opening weekend PAGE 4

Team defeats St. Paul Academy at home PAGE 8

Season 4 of popular show comes to a close PAGE 12

Thursday, January 18, 2018 Volume 91 Issue 6 St. Louis Park High School 6425 W. 33rd Street St. Louis Park, MN 55426

SKOL:

Vikings victory sparks anticipation, excitement Dani Orloff & Annabella Strathman daniorloff@slpecho.com annabellastrathman@slpecho. com

V

iking’s US Bank stadium rang loudly with excitement when wide receiver Stefon Diggs’ ran for a 61-yard touchdown in the final seconds of the game, according to math teacher Robert Otto, who attended Sunday’s game.

“There was two levels of loud that happened when Stefon Diggs caught the ball and then when he was running toward the end zone,” Otto said.

“Everyone was ecstatic. My ears rang until last night.”

Otto said the excitement of the game continued into the classroom on Tuesday.

“In two of my advanced algebra classes I didn’t really plan anything today, because I just kind of wanted to talk about the game,” Otto said.

Senior Jonny Sorenson said his passion for the team stems from his family.

“I’m excited about it because I’ve lived here my whole life and my grandpa works for

the Vikings,” Sorenson said.

Senior Megan Perkins said her first reaction to the win on Sunday was disbelief.

“I had to watch the replay to make sure nothing happened or there wasn’t a flag,” Perkins said. “I was really excited because we deserve to make it, to keep going.”

Sorenson said he plans to watch the next game amongst other fans, as it creates a rally-like atmosphere.

“We want to watch it on the big screen out of our house,” Sorenson said. “I am either thinking about hosting something or going to a restaurant like Buffalo Wild Wings because I know those will be fun to go to.”

Perkins said Sunday’s win prompted further thrill for the coming playoff game.

“I always look forward to watching football every Sunday, but this win just makes it even better because of how close it was and how we made it so far,” Perkins said.

SLPECHO.COM

Party planning for Vikings game

Festive decorations to brighten up the space.

Snacks to enjoy during the game.

Team apparel to show Vikings pride.

A neon sign found at Park Tavern

Photo Caroline Green

Art for Action raises money for those affected by deportation Church creates funds for immigrant groups by making bracelets Abby Intveld abbyintveld@slpecho.com

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fter junior Lexi Lee helped create bracelets for her church back in November, she said the experience was rewarding because it raises money for a good

cause.

“The bracelets were really fun to make (and) it was really nice to know we were doing it for a good cause,” Lee said.

According to Denise Konen, a member at First Universalist Church in Minneapolis, her church started making bracelets to raise money for those affected by immigration and deportation.

“We talked to many immigrant groups about what they need most, which is money,” Konen said. “So we wanted to start a fund that we could give immigrants who are facing difficulties and give them some money directly.”

Lee said during a church event, her and some friends helped make the bracelets after being approached by a church member.

“We had a church overnight and one of our church leaders came to us and told us about the bracelet project, so we helped make some of the bracelets by putting beads together,” Lee said.

Senior Maya Smith said her friend senior Sophie Yarosh told her about the opportunity to make bracelets to help raise money, and she participated because of the cause.

“I think (immigration) is a super important topic in today’s political climate and raising money for those affected is helpful and definitely necessary,” Smith said.

According to Konen, her church’s “Art for Action” project makes the bracelets specifically because they are easy to make and serve as a statement.

“We thought of bracelets because we thought we could put a charm on it that said ‘sanctuary,’ and it would help people to be able to show what they believe on their bodies,” Konen said.

Smith said students who agree with the cause should know about the bracelets because it’s a local way to support people affected by immigration policies.

“It’s (for) a good cause and I want more people who are willing to support it to be able to, either by making the bracelets or buying them,” Smith said.

Konen said she has plans for the expansion of the First Universalist Sanctuary Resistance Immigrant Fund through selling other items at her church.

“We want to grow this fund a bit, so we’re going to use the money that we made from the bracelets to make t-shirts and hoodies,” Konen said. “The fund will grow a lot bigger, so when immigrants who have been impacted by our broken immigration laws come to us, we’ll be able to give them money.

How the money is used Food for families Bonds to get out of jail Legal fees Child care costs

Infographic Marta Hill Source Denise Konen Photo Illustration Grace Farley

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NEWS

Echo Thursday, January 18, 2018

New program combats sexual exploitation, trafficking

Photo Katie Hardie

GSA works on gender inclusion policy

W

Marta Hill martahill@slpecho.com

Who is elligible for Safe Harbor Services?

Anyone 24 or younger Who is there to contact?

Day One hotline Call: 1-866-223-111 Text: 612-399-9995 How do I make a referral?

Contact YMCA Life Coach Sophia Maceda Call: 612-492-1713

Photo Cecil Jacobson

Gymnastics loses to Chaska-Chan

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hen freshman Josie Bryant received her personal record on floor with a score of 8.9, she said she felt a wave of support and excitement from her surrounding teammates.

“I was super proud of myself. I didn’t know I was capable of getting that high of a score,” Bryant said. “It was super special in the moment because lots of people were proud of me.”

Alex Balfour alexbalfour@slpecho.com

Serena Moore, junior

‘Enough’ provides a safe space for young individuals through YMCA

WEB PREVIEW

hen junior Chris Audette heard about Gender Sexuality Alliance’s new gender inclusion policy, he knew it would be a great opportunity for students to become more aware of transgender and intersexual values.

“The policy would make me feel more included in the school, personally, and a lot of my friends as well,” Audette said. “It would make me feel more safe going to the restroom and make teachers more aware of how to treat transgender students.”

A lot of kids aren’t going to take the ACT at the school, and they aren’t going to try as hard.

Email: sophia.maceda@ ymcamn.org Infographic Katie Hardie Source Sophia Maceda

Hanna Schechter hannaschechter@slpecho.com

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ccording to Sophia Maceda, a youth support specialist at the YMCA’s new Youth intervention service program, Enough, the program will support youths across Minnesota.

Enough is a program that works individually with young people ages 24 and under who need support because they have experienced or (are) at risk of experiencing sexual exploitation and/or trafficking,” Maceda said.

Maceda said Safe Harbor Minnesota provides funding for their program and other organizations throughout Minnesota.

“We work in partnership (with Safe Harbor Minnesota), so that is our funding source,” Maceda said.

Junior Maddie Hoffman said she believes Enough gives exploited youths an opportunity to talk with someone in a safe environment.

“I think that there’s a need for this everywhere (because) people are afraid to come out and say what has happened to them,” Hoffman said. “If this (program) is going to help them then I think that it’s important.”

Maceda said it is important to know the difference between sexual exploitation and sex trafficking.

“Sexual exploitation is trading a sexual act for the promise of anything of value or something of value, whereas trafficking only is different because it involves a third party,” Maceda said.

According to freshman Michael Boxley-Harmon, knowing the correct terminology will help bring awareness to the issue.

“I feel like if (people) know the definitions of the words, it’s going to make the world much more aware,” Boxley-Harmon said.

Maceda said Enough provides one-to-one services to youth depending on their needs.

“The biggest example of what we do is provide case management services, and we work with the young person to determine what are the goals in their case,” Maceda said.

Maceda said Enough also provides young individuals with a safe environment to meet other youths in a positive way.

“We also help provide a safe space for social activities for our young people to have positive interactions with their peers and other caring adults.

In addition, we provide opportunities to develop independent living skills through various workshops that we put on as well,” Maceda said.

Boxley-Harmon said he believes safe spaces are where students can feel free to express themselves and receive support.

“It makes you feel safe, and it’s going to help you get where you need to be and make you happy,” Boxley-Harmon said.

According to Maceda, high school students should be aware of these issues because sexual exploitation and trafficking can happen to anyone.

“Young people are at a very vulnerable age, and it’s important young people know what those definitions are,” Maceda said.

Hoffman said Park students should look out for one another and become educated on this issue.

“We all live in one community and it’s important to just support each other and things that we’ve been through,” Hoffman said.

According to Maceda, if a youth is in need of help they can call the Minnesota Day One Crisis Hotline at 1-866-223-1111 (text: 612-399-9995) for help concerning sexual assault, human trafficking and domestic violence.

2018 to be last year of free ACT

State will no longer reimburse exam costs for all students Emma Kempf emmakempf@slpecho.com Photo used with permission from Ross Jolliffe

‘Blithe Spirit’ plays with the idea of afterlife

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his winter, Noël Coward’s “Blithe Spirit” graces the Guthrie theater, giving audiences a comedic take on the afterlife.

The play centers on Charles Condomine, a successful novelist who seeks to understand the ethereal world for his new book.

To help him acquire this insight, Condomine and his wife Ruth invite a whimsical medium named Madam Arcati to dinner to perform a séance.

Isaac Wahl isaacwahl@slpecho.com For more content go to slpecho.com twitter.com/slpecho facebook.com/slpecho

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ccording to district director of assessment, evaluation and research Prachee Mukherjee, this February is the first year the state will not reimburse all students for the February ACT. “As of (this) spring, what the state has said is that it will reimburse all students who are eligible for free and reduced lunch,” Mukherjee said.

Mukherjee said the district will find funds to cover all remaining junior students’ ACTs this February, but the case may not be the same in future years.

“I think the extent to which we are unable to pay for the test out of our district funds is going to prevent certain students from being able to take the test,” Mukherjee said. “If you offer the test on a Saturday, and not on a regular school day, that could be a barrier. Another barrier could be the cost of the test.”

Junior Estelle Tronson said she believes it is good some students’ tests will be reimbursed, but that it is better when everyone is offered a free ACT.

Photo Alexis Machoka

Not free: Junior Maddie Johnson prepares for the upcoming Feburary ACT test administered by the school. The test will take place Feb.10.

“I’m sure there are people who don’t have the opportunity to go somewhere else or pay for it, and it’s really convenient to have it in the gym during school hours,” Tronson said.

Sophomore Euan Lim said all students should be offered a free ACT despite a free and reduced lunch status.

“I’m extremely frustrated,” Lim said.

“My mom is probably going to make me pay that out of (my) pocket. As for other people, that would be bad because there are families that don’t qualify for free and reduced lunch but should.”

Mukherjee said the free ACT prepares students for college, helps the district evaluate where to improve in career and college readiness and give equal opportunity to all students . “(A free ACT) is not selecting students and saying ‘I think you’re college bound

ACT Quick Facts 97 percent of juniors took the test

in 2017

$62.50 to take ACT with writing 35 percent of sophomores are in free and reduced lunch Infographic Emma Kempf Source Prachee Mukherjee & ACT.org

and therefore you take the test,’” Mukherjee said. “We do that in so many different ways throughout our students’ educational experiences, where we sort them and in the process diminish them, and somehow give them a message that ‘you’re not deserving of.’”

According to Mukherjee, the availability of a free ACT in future years will depend on the district budget, but it remains the district’s intent to allow every student to take the ACT.

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I wouldn’t say (HQ is) really beneficial. It’s sort of just another trivia game for fun.

OTHER

Echo Thursday, January 18, 2018

Sara Anderson, junior

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Past HQ Questions The poles used in modern polevaulting do NOT contain which material?

Aluminum Fiberglass Carbon fiber

Test your

HQ

knowledge 1 What time does the game begin on weekdays?

2 & 7 p.m.

3 & 8 p.m.

2 & 8 p.m.

2 How many questions are in each game?

12 11 7

3 How many people can play each game?

60 million Unlimited 1.2 million

Answers:

Trivia leads to teacher frustration HQ increases cell phone use, creates distraction Alex Balfour, Sam Birnberg & Devin Raynor alexbalfour@slpecho.com sambirnberg@slpecho.com devinraynor@slpecho.com

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s senior Elliot Schochet approached the final HQ question, his excitement grew knowing a cash prize was on the line.

“Last week, me and a bunch of friends were playing together, and we got to question 12, and it was super stressful. Every question the suspense kept building,” Schochet said. “We didn’t know (question 12) and we got it wrong, and we’re all pretty upset.”

According to junior Daniel Hunegs, HQ is a 12-question live trivia game show occurring twice a day where players have the opportunity to win money.

Hunegs said if players miss a question, they are eliminated from the game.

Math teacher Anson Opara said several students play HQ in his sixth hour class.

“It’s distracting because there’s a game at 2 p.m. so a lot of kids won’t pay attention to what’s going on in class.

They try to hide the game, and they want to keep playing, which is frustrating because I teach AP Stats, and it’s a hard class,” Opara said. “It’s one of many, many, many distractions that’s new to school.”

According to science teacher Kristen Moravetz, phones can pose as a significant distraction in class.

“I could come up with the most engaging lesson plan possible, but there would still be somebody who’s going to choose to be on Netflix, be on Facebook, do whatever else,” Moravetz said.

Moravetz said she believes cell phones can be addictive.

“I think that technology addiction is a real thing, and I think there are literally people that can’t focus if they haven’t seen their phone in the last five minutes,” Moravetz said.

According to CNN, nomophobia, short for “no mobile phone phobia,” refers to the fear of being unable to use your cell phone or other smart device.

In a 2016 survey from Common Sense Media, 50 percent of teens reported feeling addicted to their mobile

devices and 78 percent of teens reported checking their devices at least hourly.

Freshman Isaac Scott said he notices his peers playing HQ no matter if the teacher allows them to or not.

“Even if the teachers don’t want them to, kids will just go and play it,” Scott said. “Most of the time teachers are okay with it, but the kids will just get up together and start going on their phones.”

Schochet said because HQ contains the opportunity to win money, it has become increasingly popular.

“I think there’s a mixture of that it’s fun, but also the chance to win money is always exciting,” Schochet said.

“There’s also a little part of you that knows you’re never actually going to win, but it’s still very much like a thrillseeking type of thing.”

Moravetz said she allows students to play HQ on some workdays.

“If it’s a workday and people have been working hard it can be a fun way to kind of let loose there can be a collaborative aspect when more people are playing and can increase your odds,” Moravetz said. “However, that is possibly setting a bad precedent for when there’s a time where we are reviewing something that’s really important.”

Schochet said he notices HQ becoming a distraction throughout the school as the game grows in popularity.

“It’s pretty bad. None of us pay attention and our teacher gets really upset about it. I know it’s kind of spread and become a real issue,” Schochet said.

Moravetz said phones have been a distraction in the past, but she has seen a recent increase in classroom use.

“I’m not going to blame HQ for phones being a problem because phones have been a problem in my class since I started,” Moravetz said. “I think it has gotten worse over the last couple of years in general.”

Opara said although he understands why students play HQ during the school day, he feels they should prioritize learning first.

“I would say figure out what’s more important. Is risking a chance to win 2,000 dollars that’s probably not going to happen, is that worth the risk doing it daily versus like getting like an F or a D?” Opara said.

What was the most downloaded iPhone app of 2016?

Snapchat Messenger Pokémon Go What advertising mascot wears epaulettes?

Sun-Maid Raisin Girl Mr. Peanut Cap’n Crunch Which Las Vegas hotel features a replica of the Rialto Bridge?

Luxor The Venetian Caesars Palace Which of these is NOT a marsupial?

Quintana Roo Cuscus Wombat What iconic painting once hung in Napoleon’s bedroom?

The Starry Night Mona Lisa The Birth of Venus Answers:

Aluminum, Snapchat, Cap’n Crunch, The Venetian, Quintana Roo, Mona Lisa

Photo illustration Carissa Prestholdt

1. 2 p.m. & 8 p.m. 2. 12 3. Unlimited

4

Echo Thursday, January 18, 2018

For what it’s WORTH Emma Yarger emmayarger@ slpecho.com

Household reshaped by foster care

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FEATURES

y family is more “modern” than the one you will find on the TV show. We are a foster home. This means that we have taken in kids ranging from a week old baby with no siblings, to a toddler and his baby brother.

Right now we are housing a set of 6-year-old twins, their five year old brother and their 10-week-old brother. My house is currently littered with small clothes, toys and math homework spilling out of backpacks. It’s chaotic to say the least.

My family does foster care through Hennepin County. We want to foster and hopefully adopt the children we care for.

The first few foster children we hosted were fortunately able to return to their families. We have no idea what the future holds for the kids we are hosting now. All my family can do is give them love and care.

Biologically, I am the youngest in my family but I love having younger siblings. I enjoy helping my little sister with her hair and helping them all with their homework.

What’s the They were with us for POINT? the holiGive love days and and kindness they made unconditionally Christmas morning more energetic than it’s been the past few years.

Now that I am an older sibling I have to remember to be patient and lead by example which isn’t something I’ve ever had to do before. This added responsibility presents challenges but it gives me pride to be looked up to.

The kids we are hosting can be sweet. We eat dinners together and play games with one another.

Sometimes they beg me to read them a bedtime story. One moment they will tell us they love us but the next they will be throwing a tantrum because they need to brush their teeth.

Understanding these kids were in a different situation before they came to my family is one of the most challenging parts of our job.

Showing them love and kindness despite their past is something I continue to learn to do. I must remember a tantrum or certain behavior has nothing to do with me but something else entirely.

It can be frustrating at times but it feels so rewarding to know that these kids are in a safe environment where they can grow and have fun. My moms do such a wonderful job, and I am thankful that we are able to provide for these kids.

I think it’s cool (that teachers) get to visit different places and they can use that experience in class.

Ryan Barnett, freshman

Teacher travels to Antarctica Completes goal of visiting seventh continent Samantha Klepfer & Evelyn Nelson samanthaklepfer@slpecho.com evelynnelson@slpecho.com

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rom seeing penguins and whales to a polar plunge in the Antarctic waters, Honors English 10 teacher Annamarie Wilfahrt returns with new experiences for the classroom.

“I was reminded personally that you can experience new things, look at things and go back to having that childlike wonder and excitement,” Wilfahrt said.

During Park’s winter break, Wilfahrt went on a 12-day excursion to Antarctica.

This trip marks her seventh continent visited.

“I am able to bring a lot of those stories back into the classroom and just open the world to some students who don’t have the opportunities to travel,” Wilfahrt said.

Sophomore Alex Hager said he admires the goals Wilfahrt sets for herself.

“She is a person who sets goals for herself and then she fulfills them,” Hager said, “She set a goal for herself which (was to) visit all seven continents, and she fulfilled it.”

Wilfahrt said she feels Antarctica has

Photo used with written permission from Sebastián Lescano

Flapping around: Penguins gather together along the shoreside of Antarctica. Wilfahrt stayed in Antarctica for nine days, including three days of traveling. been one of her most memorable adventures, with both the amazing sights seen and what she got to learn.

“It truly was a really grand expedition and there were times where you would look at some of the stunning scenery and it was just beyond words,” Wilfahrt said.

Sophomore Sarah Wojtasiak said she appreciates the different perspectives Wilfahrt shares with her English class.

“I think it is such a great opportunity that she took. Going to a continent that not a lot of people go to in their lifetime.

It’s something I would like to do when I’m older,” Wojtasiak said.

Wilfahrt plans on traveling back to Africa this following summer and is open to any new adventure that comes her way.

3 things to do in Antarctica 1. Polar Plunge 2. Hike the peninsula 3. See the penguins, whales and seals

Infographic Sam St. Clair Source Annamarie Wilfahrt

Theater introduces student directors

Photo Grace Farley

Practice makes perfect: Senior Thomas Bryant and juniors Emma Kempf and Morganna Oberdorfer rehearse their skit "Baby Talk" for the upcoming one act show "Unwrap Your Candy." The play will run Jan. 19 and 20 at 7 p.m. and Jan. 21 at 2 p.m.

One-act opens Friday night Sumaya Mohamed & Yonit Krebs sumayamohamed@slpecho.com yonitkrebs@slpecho.com

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enior cast member Thomas Bryant said he looks forward to the upcoming winter one-act, a production comprised of four smaller plays directed by students.

“The one-act this year is called ‘Unwrap Your Candy,’ and it's a series of four vignettes, short scenes, that are intentionally disturbing and meant to basically screw with

the viewer,” Bryant said. “All four scenes are going to be student-directed by different people, so you are going to get to see student actors' work reflected in this piece.”

According to theater program director Jodi Hatzenbeller, the four shorter plays are intentionally separate.

“They are totally different stories with a few common threads, but the main thing is that they were written by the same author and intended as one evening of theater,” Hatzenbeller said.

Hatzenbeller said the dark theme of the show provides a different challenge for the

“

All four scenes are going to be student-directed by different people, so you are going to get to see student actors' work reflected in this piece.

Thomas Bryant, senior

actors.

“It's really stretching us in a different way than in musical theater or a comedy piece, while there might be comedic elements, these are dark and dramatic in ways that we haven't done for a while,” Hatzenbeller said.

According to Hatzenbeller, she introduced having student directors this year because she thought the cast and crew were able to take on the challenge. “(Student directing) doesn't always happen, but we have done it a few times in the past and this felt like the right year to do it.” Hatzenbeller said.

One-acts start this Friday.

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People think coding is specifically for men, if we get women involved, we will be inspired to (better our generation).

FEATURES

Echo Thursday, January 18, 2018

Ashley Johnson, senior

5

In the SPOTLIGHT

Chef prepares food with relatives Senior Sabrina Garcia works at family-owned restaurant

Sabrina Garcia, senior What is the name of the restaurant?

Conga Latin Bistro What food does the restaurant serve?

We serve mostly Caribbean food, like Puerto Rican, Dominican—no Ecuadorean.

Do you enjoy working in a family-owned business?

Yeah for the most part. I like how I know everyone and I know everything works.

What else do you like about working there?

I like how I can speak both Spanish and English. I like how some customers come in and they don’t speak English, but they have someone who they can talk to in Spanish.

Because it’s both Spanish and English. I’d say the majority of the customers we have speak Spanish.

Do you get a lot of customers coming in who speak Spanish?

Yeah, because a lot of our waitresses speak Spanish.

Photo Malaika Bigirindavyi

Family Business: Seniors Sabrina and Samantha Garcia work on making authentic food, native to their culture for their family owned restaurant Conga Latin Bistro. The restaurant is located on Hennepin Ave. in Minneapolis, it is open everyday from 5 p.m. to 2 a.m.

Would you like more people to come to your restaurant, particularly people from the school?

I know for Spanish to get culture points you have to an authentic experience, and I think that’s a great place to go because we have waitresses that speak Spanish.

out as a restaurant in Plymouth and that was taken down and they moved it. It a family home-cooked restaurant.

Who gets the restaurant after your aunt and uncle?

My cousin gets it afterward and then I guess the family continues to help.

Who owns the restaurant?

My aunt's husband owns the restaurant. But my family bought the location together and they took down what the restaurant was before and built it from the ground up so it was a family effort.

Would you consider working there in the future?

I like working there now, but I want to move on to something else for a career. (The) service industry is not for me.

Why did they create the restaurant?

It started out with my uncle’s mother who wanted to make a restaurant with food from her country and so my uncle , her son, decided to open a restaurant for her and it started

Has working at Conga Latin Bistro taught you any lessons?

It has been a good experience. I learn people skills, I learn how to communicate with others, I learn how to understand others’ needs. (And) I also learned what it takes to run a restaurant.

Ndunzi Kunsunga ndunzikunsunga@slpecho.com

Technovations introduces coding to girls Club gears up for the new year of developing apps Amaia Barajas amaiabarajas@slpecho.com

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s junior Caroline Garland readies herself for the coming year of Technovations MN, she said she recognizes the importance the club has for women in the coding world. “(Technovations is) important because women are very underrepresented in this field, and it’s something that lots of women are discouraged in pursuing because they feel like they’ll be alone in the field or that something else will be a better fit for them,” Garland said.

According to the Technovation MN website, Technovations is a national program that encourages high school girls to get involved with coding. Each team needs to have five members per team and there can be more than one team per school. Club members work throughout 12 weeks of the school year before presenting their app in May to a panel of judges. Club members are judged on the originality of their app, business pitch and programming.

According to adviser Mark Miller, the success of Technovations last year sparked enough interest for students to return this year.

“I think from their experience last year, all of the girls who participated last year came back this year. So I think that kind of speaks for itself that they enjoyed the program,” Miller said. “It’s a good opportunity to put together business and technology and working with outside people to work through an interesting problem.”

New member, junior Greta Long, said the club intro-

Photo Alexis Machoka

Techtacular: Juniors Sophia Davenport, Ilsa Olsen and Caroline Garland gather to discuss their plan for the coming Technovation year. They work for 12 weeks during the school year before presenting their app in May. duces new skills to young girls that has not always been available for them.

“I think sometimes (coding) is a subject that gets male dominated, so exposing girls early to it helps even out of the field and gives them an experience, even if it’s not something you want to go into,” Long said.

While Technovations members haven’t decided on what apps to create this year, Garland said last year they developed an app that helped prevent violence.

“Last year we created an app that was designed for personal safety. It was basically an app where you’re able to discreetly call the police and your attacker doesn’t know you’re calling the police,” Garland said.

Miller believes Technovations helps young women get involved in programming which has been mostly maledominated in the past

Technovation by the numbers

“I think it’s important,” Miller said. “Technovations Minnesota Developed app knows that we need more females Coding mentors in engineering and technology than we have. I think Technovation members it’s extremely important to let girls Weeks to prepare know that they’re Infographic Creston Halstead more than capable Source Mark MIller of doing this."

Technovations meets after school at 3:30 p.m. every Tuesday in room B136.

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IN-DEPTH

Echo Thursday, January 18, 2018

I think we should be aware of it because it’s really present in our society, and it’s not talked about enough.

Grace Kanyinky, freshman

Cold weather leads to increased concern

S

Anna duSaire & Alec Pittman annadusaire@slpecho.com alecpittman@slpecho.com

urrounded by local home-

What is the issue?

lessness, freshman Janiah

A

Davis said she felt motivated to use her earnings to

take action in bettering her community.

“I haven’t been with any organization, but I moved a month ago, and I lived in a bad neighborhood with a lot of homeless people. So when I was working, I would get pizzas and hand them out,” Davis said. “It was something I was really determined to do.”

ccording to social worker Daniel Perez, the intense Minnesota wi it increasingly difficult to stay safe when homeless.

“What I feel about wintertime, especially when I think about peop homeless, we live in such a brutally cold state that it is pretty tough to Perez said.

Sophomore Shaqued Benharush said it is the responsibility of thos give aid to help the homeless community.

“It’s so cold and people, they don’t have enough money for food, s ing they won’t have enough money for blankets and stuff,” Benharush lot of people die that don’t have homes in the winter, and I feel that p lot more benefits and a lot more money could do something to help th Junior Krista Morhauser said although she cannot relate to the situ those who experience or have experienced homelessness, she is aware often goes unspoken.

“I feel it’s hard to imagine what those people could be going throu cold outside, it’s winter time, and they have nowhere to go, so I could having that feeling,” Morhauser said. “I think people don’t talk abou they don’t know what to do about it.”

Junior Maddie Hoffman said she thinks there is limited conversati this issue because people lack knowledge about homeless women’s he cerns and the topic as a whole.

“I think that people like to stray away from that topic because we knowledgeable about it as we could be. We can’t experience that beca not homeless, so we don’t have the same process and understanding,” said. “I think this topic goes with women too as they have to go throu menstrual cycles homeless and don’t have access to those kinds of pro These things aren’t talked about because we aren’t knowledgeable abo

inters make

ple who are o survive,”

se who can

so I’m guessh said. “A people with a hem.” uation of e the topic

ugh. It’s so dn’t imagine ut it because

ions about ealth con-

are not as ause we’re ” Hoffman ugh their oducts. out it.”

“

It could be affecting people around us who we know and who we don’t know.

IN-DEPTH

Echo Thursday, January 18, 2018

Courtney Hanson, freshman

7

Dangerous roads: A homeless man stands on Highway 55 Jan. 11. Homeless are in increasingly dangerous conditions as winter temperatures continue to plummet.

Photo Cecil Jacobson

Super Bowl neglects homeless community

T

he additional efforts to give Super Bowl visitors housing neglects the homeless population of Minneapolis, according to Perez. “(Minnesota) has a homeless population that is seeking refuge in Minneapolis and other suburbs while they are making space for visitors to come here and have fun,” Perez said. “In the larger scheme it makes me think about what it would be like to not have a home and be out there, especially today when it’s snowing.”

Junior Mohamed Sharif said he thinks it is unfortunate the homeless community is being overlooked as the Minneapolis community is concerned about where Super Bowl viewers will stay.

“I wish there was something I could do for the people who are homeless,” Sharif said. “I think we should have better shelters for those people, and we have people for the Super Bowl coming in having lots of hotels and places to stay, but we don’t worry about our own community and that is very sad.”

According to WCCO Minneapolis, First Covenant Church, located across the street from U.S. Bank Stadium, is moving their homeless shelter to St. Olaf Catholic Church, starting the Thursday of Super Bowl weekend for security reasons.

Services available to youth

S

impson Housing program manager Jess Pierce said the programs at the 66 West location are dedicated to assisting the youth homeless population in finding affordable places to stay and live.

“66 West is the first program that has been invested in the youth homeless world,” Pierce said. “(The program) consists of on-site case management and onsite housing, which is pretty cool and innovative because a lot of housing these days are scattered sites, so young people are just in market-rate regular apartments throughout the metro.”

Perez said the Birdfeeder and STEP are key resources for students struggling

with food as well as their living situation.

“We definitely have the Birdfeeder program, who provides snacks to me and other staff members here in the counseling office and perhaps even other teachers in the school, so that kiddos who don’t have a home, don’t have food available are able to get snacks both here and to take home,” Perez said. “We also have STEP nearby that provides a lot of services, clothing, sometimes help with bills and all those things.”

Morhauser said her church provides aid and shelter through volunteer activities.

“We make sandwiches for the homeless people downtown and bring them into the warm church Go to YSNMN.org or downto be out of the cold for a couple load the app to find services hours,” Morhauser said.

Pierce said she found gift cards, for homeless youth. as well as hygiene products, are Go to a youth drop-center close favored by students facing hometo you. Example: Youth Link. lessness.

“There is a lot of value in saying ‘here is a gift card get what Meet with an advocate for a you want to get’ instead of people screening assessment. dictating what people eat or what they think they should be eating.

The county will connect you That is a big thing I encourage with different housing programs. people to do as far as donation are concerned,” Pierce said. “HygieneSource Jess Pierce wise, specifically feminine hygiene Infographic Natalia Caraballo products are always a need.”

Steps to find housing

1.

2.

3.

4.

8

“

SPORTS

Echo Thursday, January 18, 2018

Out of the PARK Sam Birnberg sambirnberg@ slpecho.com

Miracle in Minnesota

O

ne minute, 18 seconds left on the clock in the third quarter. A 17-0 halftime lead as good as gone. My heart raced as the Saints marched down the field.

I had seen this game before.

In my lifetime alone as a Vikings fan, memories of the 2009 NFC Championship and the more recent 2015 Wildcard round loss felt as if they were about to be joined by yet another crushing playoff defeat.

As the Vikings took the ball for what seemed like their last chance, breathing became harder.

With 1:29 left in the fourth quarter, and the game at stake, we needed a 53What’s the yard field goal to take the POINT? lead. It wasn’t a 27-yard chip shot from the left hash, but my stomach sank just the same. My nerves dwindled away as the kick sailed straight through the middle, and the Vikings retook the lead.

All we had to do was play defense and stop the Saints from scoring.

We didn’t.

A converted fourth down and a field goal later, only 25 seconds were left before the inevitable.

Faced at the brink of yet another crushing defeat to end a promising season, I turned to my dad next to me and realized this could be the last game we would watch together for awhile, the last game before I go off to college.

All hope rested on the shoulders of our backup quarterback, a journeyman passer whose path was just as improbable as Sunday’s game itself. Within two plays, a false start penalty moved us back and our final timeout burned. Two straight incompletions, and only 10 seconds were left on the clock. The only chance left was getting out of bounds to set up a field goal.

So much was riding on that one moment. Still, I found myself believing, having the same faith I have held, perhaps blindly optimistically, for my entire tenure as a fan.

But then a 61-yard, game-winning, walk-off touchdown reception by Stefon Diggs sent the Vikings to the NFC Championship, a play that was quickly dubbed the “Minneapolis Miracle.” The play Minnesota sports fans had been waiting decades for. A play to call our own. A historic moment that will forever be remembered by fans of football everywhere. A reward for every faithful Vikings fan who had endured as much heartache and loss as any professional sports franchise.

Always remain hopeful

I feel proud because it’s always good to beat Benilde no matter what the sport is.

Danny Hunegs, junior

Boys’ Swimming wins 54-40 Park defeats SPAHA, prepares for tougher competition Eli Curran-Moore, Tenzin Gyaldatsang & Sophie Olmen elicurranmoore@slpecho.com tenzingyaldatsang@slpecho.com sophieolmen@slpecho.com

A

ccording to head coach Amanda Forsberg, the team’s hard work over winter break has paid off in their meet against St. Paul Academy and Summit where Park won 54-40.

“We’ve had a lot of meets and a lot of practice especially coming off of winter break,” Forsberg said. “But I think this definitely helped to see some good swims and see all the hard work pay off.”

Senior captain Adam Recknagel said this meet was a confidence booster and motivator for the tougher meets coming up in the near future.

“We had some very good times and we placed first in a lot of events. It’s important with this win we can build momentum to go against Chaska-Chan, who is our biggest competitor. We can improve on our kicking and our core strength,” Recknagel said.

Freshman Ben St. Clair said he felt energized by the victory and felt the team’s pride was on the line.

“I felt the meet was pretty important because this is our house and we’ve got to defend it. I don’t think that we have ever lost to them here so we gotta keep that track record going,” St. Clair said. “We had some good cheering, I feel when I get

Photo Grace Farley

Dive in: Senior David Salamzadeh swims the 200 individual medley Jan. 16. Salamzadeh finished with a time of 2.07. cheered on I go faster so I want to see more of it. Coming out of the meet, I’m feeling good, it shows that we can beat pretty challenging teams.”

Sophomore Will Matthews said the team enjoyed showcasing their talents.

“I think we did well just getting in the pool and swimming the best we could. We got a lot of firsts, seconds and thirds which helped us win the meet. We got really hyped to show what we could do before Chaska-Chan,” Matthews said.

Forsberg said the meet felt satisfying after their previous loss to the Trojans.

“We saw St. Paul Academy and Summit (SPAHA) at the Maroon and Gold at the U of M. They beat us, so it was nice to come back and beat them here on our own turf. Without diving, we’re on a little bit more of an even playing field,” Forsberg said. “We had some great times especially coming off a week with a lot of meets. This was probably the first meet we didn’t have any records broken.”

Forsberg said the team always has room for improvement and tweaks in the water.

“Just little things, we’re are a little slow in some of our relay starts, were still breathing in and out of some of the walls and into our finishes,” Forsberg said.

Senior Alec Pittman said one advantage the team has is an exceptional cooperation and dynamic between underclassmen and upperclassmen swimmers.

“I’d say the team has some awesome cohesion between both young and old swimmers. One of our top swimmers is Hayden who is a freshman, and he is just godly fast. Then you have other swimmers that bring their own strengths,” Pittman said. “We have a great group of senior leaders and the younger swimmers feel comfortable enough to do their own thing and have their own work ethic and motivation in practice.”

The next meet takes place 6 p.m. Jan. 18 at St. Louis Park High School against Chaska-Chan.

Girls’ hockey beats Benilde Team credits success to player’s leadership Nicole Sanford & Ruby Stillman nicolesanford@slpecho.com rubystillman@slpecho.com

W

alking off the ice after HopkinsPark’s 3-2 win against rival team Benilde St. Margaret’s, junior Mary Gleason said the victory made her feel proud. “(I felt) amazing (when I scored), obviously against the team that everybody hates,” Gleason said. “This is the team you want to beat.”

Head coach Chris Erickson also expressed satisfaction with the team’s performance.

“Benilde’s a good team and they came out with some speed, and we tried to match it, match their intensity. So I was very happy with our effort,” Erikson said.

According to Gleason, the team anticipated its opponent’s defeat.

“We for sure expected to beat them,” Gleason said. “We played pretty well the whole game other than a couple minutes in the second (period).”

Gleason said a difficult practice and group motivation effectively prepared her for the game.

“We had a good practice yesterday, worked hard,” Gleason said. “A lot of (my preparation involves) energy in the locker

Photo Caroline Green

Puck it up: Senior Katie Fredrickson looks toward the play during the girls’ varsity hockey game Jan. 11 at the Rec Center. Hopkins-Park beat Benilde 3-2. room, getting prepared for warm-ups and all that.”

According to Erickson, Gleason exudes leadership through her work ethic.

“The whole senior group is great leadership, plus you got Mary Gleason today that played (and) got a point on every goal,” Erickson said.

Gleason said she hopes this win will drive the team through the rest of it’s challenging season.

“We have a really tough schedule,” Gleason said. “We have Lake Conference where we play Edina, Wayzata, all them, and hopefully this game will propel us through those but they’re tough teams, top

teams in the state, so I don’t know.”

Hopkins-Park’s next game will be against Eden Prairie at 7 p.m. Jan. 16 at the Eden Prairie Community Center.

Game Stats Hopkins/Park BSM Goals Assists SOG

3 2 27

2 3 1

Infographic Jacob Stillman Source mngirlshockey.com

“

(I don’t know how) that compares (to last year), but third place is third place and that is still good.”

SPORTS

Echo Thursday, January 18, 2018

Ethan Rickert, senior

9

Who Graham Campbell Grade Senior Sport eSports

Photo Josh Halper

Pushing forward: Eighth grader Kate Holden skate skis alongside fellow eighth grader Josie Mosby at their meet Jan. 10 at Hyland Park Reserve. The Orioles placed third in the meet overall.

Nordic team earns top marks Varsity teams earn third, girls’ JV earns first Abby Inveld & Ndunzi Kunsunga abbyinveld@slpecho.com ndunzikunsunga@slpecho.com

O

n Jan. 10, Park’s Nordic teams, both boys’ varsity and girls’ varsity took third place, while girls’ JV took first against Benilde, Cooper and Chaska-Chan.

Senior Samyu Yenamandra said she felt the team performed well at their previous meet.

“I think the last meet went well. JV won out of all the schools and varsity did

pretty well,” Yenamandra said.

Nordic coach Diane Engebretson said this year’s JV team exhibits a lot of promise exemplified in new skiers.

“Our JV team is really really strong this year, especially our girls,” Engebretson said. “Normally, first year skiers don’t race right away, but this year we have new skiers who are already on varsity. They’ve been really impressive.”

Senior captain Kate Brinkman said she believes the future of the Nordic team is in good hands considering the current strength of the JV team.

“We have a really good JV team, which means we’re going to have really good varsity (next year),” Brinkman said.

Brinkman said the team has been trying to improve race results as a whole.

“We have been kind of spread out, but this (meet) we were a lot closer,” Brinkman said. “My goal is to bring varsity

Girls’ team scores Benilde-St. Margaret’s 270 Chaska-Chan 266 St. Louis Park 249 Infographic Jacob Stillman Source gopherstateevents.com

closer together so that we can be a stronger team.”

Engebretson said even though the lack of snow and extreme weather limited the skiing season, the team still anticipates future meets.

“We haven’t had a lot of races this season because we didn’t have enough snow, so the season is cut a little short. We’re looking forward to the races we have left and seeing how they can improve,” Engebretson said.

The Nordic teams’ next meet will be at 3:45 p.m. Jan. 24 at Elm Creek.

Junior switches to tennis full time

How has eSports helped you?

What do you gain from it?

Not me personally but I can see it in other people who aren’t in other sports. Our team captain doesn’t usually do other team sports, so this is a good learning experience for him to have more of a leadership role.

How can eSports help others?

So there are scholarships for people who want to do stuff after high school. There is something called the premier league which isn’t quite the pro level, but it is something to do to get to that pro level. It’s a level that is higher than high school and collegiate but not the pro level yet.

What do competitions look like? How do they work?

For our game, (competitions) are usually between 20 minutes to an hour. It really depends on what (game) you’re playing.

Do you believe eSports should be classified as a real sport?

I think it is a sport for those who don’t usually incorporate themselves into physical sports or those with other people essentially. The main reason I think (eSports) should be more of a sport is because you are conversing with your teammates and that gives you a sporting experience.

Susanna Hu keeps college in mind when choosing which sport to focus on Avia Kaner-Roth aviakanerroth@slpecho.com

J

unior tennis player Susanna Hu said her motivation to play tennis full time was because of thoughts about college, as well as her passion for the sport.

“I really wanted to participate in tennis in college which made me want to focus on it,” Hu said. “This past season was such a great time, and it helped me realize the passion I have for tennis.”

Hu said she is most inspired by new players because of the new players because of the accomplishments they achieve.

“The people who try out for tennis who have never played before inspire me the most because so many people think that a person can’t become amazing at a sport if they start late,” Hu said.

“The improvements you see over the season by the girls who just joined is inspiring to me because of their incredible development as players,” she said.

Tennis coach David Breitenbucher said Hu has grown significantly as a tennis player and competitor.

“Susi’s played singles for us the past few years, and I would say the main growth period is that she’s been very consistent over the past few years, and she’s taken her tennis game to a whole new level,” Breitenbucher said.

Hu said the difficult piece of tennis for her is remaining consistent, which sometimes causes her to miss shots.

“The hardest part of the game is the mentality because of it being a sport with a lot of repetition stroke wise,” Hu said. “The days that frustrate me the most is when I have trouble hitting a shots that I’ve hit consistently in the past.”

Breitenbucher said Hu’s leadership skills coupled with her pas-

How did you get involved with eSports in the first place? And when did you get involved?

I play video games at home and I am in a class with Mr. Utities and he told (his students) about this idea of doing competitive video gaming for a certain game we play and I was like ‘yes.’

Photo Josh Halper

Focus in: Junior Susanna Hu coils for a backhand in her match against Benilde Sept. 14. Hu has directed her time toward tennis instead of participating in Nordic Skiing. sion for the game will make her an excellent captain next year.

“Her good leadership skills has really prepared her for next year, but most importantly she cares not only about her tennis game, but about the players and the program,” Breitenbucher said.

According to Breitenbucher, Hu’s good attitude and close relationship with her teammates has made her a good team player. “(Hu) always comes with a good attitude, and all the girls have a good camaraderie and she really builds off of that. It really makes the captain’s job easy,” Breitenbucher said. “She’s positive, optimistic and comes with the right attitude.”

Hu said Breitenbucher pushes her and the team to become more competitive by giving pregame pep talks.

“Coach (Breitenbucher) has pushed the team by making the team mentality become more competitive and positive,” Hu said.

“He always gives us a pep talk before each match and makes us say one thing we need to focus on during the match, I think this helps the teams focus and strive to come out on top.”

What are some of the most popular eSports games?

League of Legends, I mean it got more viewers than the NBA Finals last year for the world championships. And I would say the second most viewed is CSGO, which is Counter Strike Global Offensive, that seems to be pretty popular.

What are common misconceptions about eSports?

I think that people think that it takes zero skill, I mean ‘you’re just playing video games, and you’re a loser’ and stuff like that.

I think people are getting used to the idea of more video games and how competitive they are getting.

Maddie Lund maddielund@slpecho.com

“

10 OPINIONS

Echo Thursday, January 18, 2018

Echo

Editors-in-chief: *Mimi Fhima, *Dani Orloff & *Annabella Strathman Managing editors: *Alex Balfour, *Anna duSaire, Alec Pittman, & *Atticus Raasch Web editors: Josh Halper & Marta Hill Photo editors: Malaika Bigirindavyi, Caroline Green, *Grace Farley & Adam Johnson Design editors: Devin Raynor & Sam St. Clair Copy editors: Yonit Krebs, *Nicole Sanford, Hanna Schechter, Elise Riley, & *Sophie Yarosh Video editors: Evelyn Nelson & Mara Zapata Social media editors: Yonah Davis, Avia KanerRoth, Alexis Machoka & Bre Thompson Assistant copy editors: Jenna Cook, Abby Intveld & Emma Yarger Assistant design editors: Creston Halstead & Brooklyn Donelson Infographic editor: Isabel Kjaer News editor: Sumaya Mohamed Features editors: Amaia Barajas & Ruby Stillman In-Depth editors: Emma Kempf & *Isabel Leviton Sports editors: Sam Birnberg & Jacob Stillman Opinions editors: *Hannah Leff & *Lukas Levin Entertainment editor: *Isaac Wert Profiles editors: *Ndunzi Kunsunga & Maddie Lund Staff: Tjessa Arradondo, David Bryant, Natalia Caraballo, Culver Carden, , Nietzsche Deuel, Racquel Fhima, Esther Gendler, Tenzin Gyaldatsang, Katie Hardie, Samantha Klepfer, Kimon Malone, Sophie Olmen, William Phelan, Carissa Prestholdt, Hadeal Rizeq, Isaac Wahl & Hayley Westwood

Sexual assault is a huge issue in our society and needs to be addressed.

Victims don’t get enough support.

Maggie Christiansen, junior

Our Perspective

New program creates safe haven

I

n November, the YMCA started a new program called Enough, according to YMCA youth support specialist Sophia Maceda.

Maceda said the program, funded by Safe Harbor Minnesota, was created to help people 24 years and younger who are at risk of or have experienced sexual trafficking or sexual exploitation.

The program provides a safe environment for young people who feel uncomfortable or unsafe with sharing their information about their situation.

The Echo editorial board believes Enough is a positive asset and will benefit students from Park who are looking for help with struggles of sexual exploitation or trafficking.

Enough aims to support at-risk youth by providing case management services and working with young people to decide what they want to accomplish.

Every case of sexual assault or trafficking is different and must be treated as such. Enough works with people oneon-one, allowing every situation to be addressed individually.

Additionally, Enough allows young people to become involved in social activi-

Illustration Nietzsche Deuel

How to make a referral

ties with peers and others who may be in a similar position in a safe environment.

Young people must have a resource or • Referrals can be made by a place to go to comfortably ask for help if anyone, including self-referrals. they’re in a bad situation.

Especially in the current political • Appointments are on a first climate, people need resources to receive come first serve basis. help more than ever. By focusing solely on young people, this program creates a less • Space is limited and a intimidating environment. waiting list will be available Any student who has experienced upon request. sexual trafficking or exploitation, or is at risk for either, should reach out for help to Contact Sophia Maceda programs like Enough..

Call (612)-492-1713 If any student knows of someone who Email Sophia.maceda@ymcamn.org is experiencing or is at risk of being sexually trafficked or exploited, they should Infographic Brooklyn – Source YMCA refer them to this program.

Business manager: Eli Curran-Moore Principal: Scott Meyers Printer: ECM Inc. Adviser: Lori Keekley *Denotes editorial board member

MEDIA POLICIES

The Echo is the official student-produced newspaper of St. Louis Park Senior High School. It is published triweekly for the school’s students, staff and community.

The Echo is a designated forum for student expression in which students make all decisions of content without prior review from school officials. The adviser will not act as a censor, but will advise students. Students have the final decision on all content.

The Echo will work to avoid bias and/ or favoritism. We will strive to make our coverage and content meaningful and interesting to all our readers.

We will make every effort to avoid printing libel, obscenities, innuendo and material that threatens to disrupt the learning process or is an invasion of privacy.

We will avoid electronic manipulation that alters the truth of a photograph unless clearly labeled as a photo illustration.

Staff editorials represent the opinion of the editorial board arrived at by discussion and will not be bylined. Bylined articles are the opinion of the individual writers and do not necessarily reflect the views of the Echo staff or administration as a whole.

The Echo welcomes reader input. Letters to the editor and suggestions must be signed and should be no longer than 250 words and may be emailed to slpecho@gmail.com or submitted in room C275.

Emailed letters must be verified prior to publication. We will not necessarily publish all letters received and reserve the right to ask the writer to edit for length and clarity.

Anonymous letters wherein the Echo does not know the identity of the writer will not be printed.

Advertisements will be sought from local businesses and school clubs and sports.

We maintain the right to reject any ads we believe to be false, misleading, inappropriate or harmful. The Echo does not necessarily endorse the products or services offered in these advertisements.

NSPA All-American and Hall of Fame member; 2011, 2016, 2017 NSPA Print Pacemaker Finalist; 2013, 2014, 2015 National Print Pacemaker Award Recipient; 2014, 2015, 2016 Online Pacemaker Finalist; CSPA Gold Medalist; 2017 CSPA Hybrid Crown Finalist; 2013 CSPA Gold Crown; 2015 CSPA Hybrid Gold Crown; 2012, 2014, 2016 CSPA Silver Crown; JEM All-State.

Free ACT no longer available after this year Not offering ACT puts juniors at a disadvantage Alexis Machoka alexismachoka@slpecho.com

T

he ACT will no longer be free at Park starting next year. Not offering the free ACT at the school will put students who come from lower income families at a disadvantage — students who already experience difficulties will now have one more thing to worry about.

Up until last year, ACT tests were reimbursed by the state. However, this spring, the state will only reimburse the school for students who are eligible for free and reduced lunch.

Even students who don’t qualify for free and reduced lunch may struggle to afford the test fee.

It’s ridiculous that students’ families who are trying to make ends meet will now be expected to pay for a test required for many college applications.

According to U.S. News, 95 percent of colleges say they either require the SAT or ACT for admission.

As diverse as Park is, the administration should understand there are also

Photo illustration Lukas Levin

diverse income levels.

Administrators should make it possible for every Park student to have an equal opportunity to move on to a post-secondary education, regardless of their family’s socioeconomic status.

Not providing the free ACT puts a specific demographic of students at a disadvantage, and is just another way of giving already privileged students an advantage.

Kids whose parents went to college and have jobs that allow them to be financially stable will be able to afford the $62.50 fee for the ACT. Students whose parents have not had the opportunity to go to college will continue to struggle because they may not be able to afford the test their child requires to get into most colleges.

Up to the Vikings: Happy birthday, Drew Brees.

Art Devin Raynor

Not providing the free ACT at the school creates more barriers for students than just the fact that students will need to pay for the test, they will also have to schedule a test and get to the testing location.

For some, paying the fee may seem like an easy task, but for others, that is not the case. Not all families have cars or even internet access at their house to register for the test.

If Park wants to ensure the student body reaches its full potential, then they should do all they can to keep the ACT free.

The ACT needs to be free, not only at Park, but at all schools. All students should have equal opportunities to be successful.

Down to ACT: Now I’ll have to pay extra to get a bad score.

Up to HQ: Scott is my favorite teacher.

J.H., L.L., H.L.

“

I am frustrated (net neutrality) was repealed because now people have to pay for services that could help them get a job or housing.

OPINIONS

Echo Thursday, January 18, 2018

Euan Lim, sophomore

11

Repeal of net neutrality detrimental to internet FCC to destroy equitable internet experience for consumers Jenna Cook jennacook@slpecho.com

T

he Federal Communicatons Commission (FCC) held a vote Dec. 14 to repeal Obama’s Title II internet regulation, the executive order allowing net neutrality in the United States. Net neutrality prohibits internet service providers from restricting access to particular online content.

Republican commissioners supported the repeal with a 3-2 majority. The vote itself was unfair to begin with, as the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has only five commissioners.

Five people voting on one issue cannot accurately represent the diversity of thought of the vast population of the United States. Had the FCC held a general election, the repeal would never have passed, considering the negative backlash and criticism the FCC received before and after the vote.

The repeal of net neutrality allows internet service providers (ISPs) to charge or restrict internet users’ access to specific websites or content. This may lead to only certain types of opinions being seen or published on the internet, which is unfair. Those who are unwilling or unable to pay for content should not surrender new ideas solely because they lack funds.

If ISPs decide to restrict news sites, consumers should be outraged. To deprive readers of a certain viewpoint or news

story could create even more ignorance in this country, something of which we already have an abundance. To restrict consumers’ access to social media sites, which have become valuable platforms to convey viewpoints, could arguably infringe on freedom of speech.

The repeal will not improve the internet by any means on the consumer’s part. ISPs will obtain more money from consumers as well as websites who wish to reach more internet users by not having their content blocked or slowed down.

Small businesses can easily choke because of the repeal, which may in turn lead to the demise of the next Google or YouTube.

The FCC’s decision will also negatively impact education. Teachers frequently use sites like Google and Britannica to find information.

At Park specifically, teachers and students both depend on Schoology, PowerSchool and Google Drive. Without access to these resources, students will have difficulty completing their schoolwork.

Low-income families in Park, in particular, will encounter difficulty. If these families are not be able to pay for whichever package includes educational resources, these students will be academically behind students with greater monetary advantages.

Several states have already taken the initiative to introduce bills that will reinstate net neutrality. Minnesota, as well as the rest of the country, should follow suit. Net neutrality provides people from all walks of life a platform on which to express their opinions. Everyone deserves free speech.

How the internet will change Internet service providers (ISPs)

You

Internet ISPs will block certain content and charge internet users to access certain services.

YouTube

Social Media

Email

Infographic Hannah Leff Source Digital Information World

Republicans bridge House and Senate bills, finalizing tax plan bill President Donald Trump signed the $1.5 trillion tax bill Dec. 22, which will go into effect when citizens file their 2018 taxes in 2019. The Senate voted 51-48, and the House voted 227-203 in favor of the bill.

New legislation to cut taxes Plan helps large corporations Tennam Gyaldatsang tennamgyaldatsang@slpecho.com

T

he tax bill will be very impactful to all of America. According to Bloomberg Politics, the current corporate tax rate in the United States is one of the highest in the world at 35 percent which means that large corporations are being taxed heavily.

The new tax bill plans to bring it down to 21 percent by 2018 which brings it closer to the worldwide average.

By lowering the corporate tax, companies that moved overseas will return and build new factories create more jobs.

This could lead to an immense boost in the U.S. economy.

According to the Washington

PARK TRAIL

Post, most middle class families will receive tax cuts that will increase the child tax credit to $2,000 per child. Most families will be able to reap the benefits of the tax bill.

The tax bill has caused some staggering changes. According to CNNMoney, Walmart is already raising wages to eleven dollars an hour as a direct result of this new tax legislation.

This is just one of the ways the tax bill has already helped to boost the U.S. economy by raising wages for workers.

Those are just some of the ways the tax bill will help out the United States. Most people will get tax cuts with the new plan which will help everyone from middle class families to large companies in order to boost the economy.

What is changing

•

A 2.6% tax decrease for top earners

•

Citizens can only deduct $10,000 in state, local and property taxes

•

A 14% tax decrease for large corporations.

•

No required heath insurance in 2019.

•

All individual tax cuts scheduled to expire in 2025.

Infographic Hannah Leff Source Washington Post

Nietzsche Deuel nietzscheduel@slpecho.com

B. Murder

A. Jupiter B. Saturn

T

he new tax bill passed by the House of Representatives is ridiculous to say the least. A legislative proposal that solely benefits President Trump and his rich cronies is the exact opposite of making America great.

Americans fall into seven different tax brackets depending on their income. The lowest tax bracket will have no tax cuts with the new bill while the highest tax bracket will receive a 2.6 percent cut in their tax payments.

This is an extremely unequal economic decision because 27 million households fall into the lowest tax bracket while less than one million fall under the highest.

A decision that neglects almost 10 percent of Americans is irresponsible, corrupt and destructive. This bill continues to disadvantage the lower classes of our society and allows higher class citizens to use their privilege to make themselves richer.

Furthermore, large corporations will receive a 14 percent tax cut, according to the Tax Foundation. This provides an incentive for large companies to keep outsourcing, potentially weakening the American economy this bill is supposedly fixing.

Lawmakers are letting down their constituents with these new tax laws. Representatives generally run on the platform to help the working citizen. Contrary to their promises, it is middle class individuals and families who will suffer because of this bill.

Trivia questions from trivia.fyi

Who is wasting classtime on their phone?

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Answers: 1. B, 2. A

A. Company

What planet has the most moons?

Legislative decision hurts working class Emma Yarger emmayarger@slpecho.com

HQ in class...

What is a flock of crows called?

Tax bill neglects Americans in need

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12 ENTERTAINMENT

Echo Thursday, January 18, 2018

I love the discussions “Black Mirror” sparks about our society and culture.

Ellery Deschamps, senior

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‘Black Mirror’s’ fourth season explores behavior Netflix original comments on contemporary society Culver Carden culvercarden@slpecho.com Fair use from Netflix

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etflix original “Black Mirror” is a British science-fiction show taking place in the distant future and highlighting the dark side of technological advancement. Each episode is unrelated to the previous, and stands alone. The fourth season provides a frightening, yet riveting, perspective on today’s society.

Episode 1: “USS Callister”

Episode 4: “Hang the DJ”

“USS Callister” follows game designer Robert Daly (Jesse Plemons) as he creates a customized game in which the characters are conscious. The cast carries out the story well and successfully crafts a creepy, unshakable tension that stays with the viewer. However, the subtly ironic ending feels rushed and somewhat incomplete. “USS Callister” is intensely thrilling to watch as it spirals further into darkness with every passing minute.

In “Hang the DJ,” every relationship is set up by a computer system and given an expiration time, creating several relationships until a person is set up with a final, “perfect” companion. After somehow being paired twice, Frank (Joe Cole) and Amy (Georgina Campbell) have doubts about the system.

“Hang the DJ” provides a heartwarming contrast to the usual negative themes of “Black Mirror.”

Episode 2: “Arkangel”

Episode 5: “Metalhead”

“Arkangel” follows Marie (Rosemarie DeWitt), a mother who signs her daughter, Sarah (Brenna Harding), up for a new experimental program allowing parents to monitor where their children are, what they see and what they hear. “Arkangel” provides a tense tale of dishonesty between a mother and her daughter. The shocking ending leaves viewers with a heartbreaking aftertaste, but also a sense of closure.

“Metalhead” follows a group of scavengers as they search for supplies in an abandoned warehouse in a post-apocalyptic world.

They soon encounter a merciless guard dog and must run for their lives. Escaping seems impossible. “Metalhead” has a captivating concept: a human escaping a non-human enemy, but the story lacks lasting excitement.

The episode would be great as a part of a longer movie, but is bland on its own.

Episode 3: “Crocodile”

Episode 6: “Black Museum”

“Crocodile” is about an architect, Mia (Andrea Riseborough), struggling to hide a dark secret about a mistake she made years ago. Mia takes frightening measures to keep herself safe, which adds to the episode’s dark theme. A minor problem arises in the lack of excitement present at the end. While certainly unexpected, the climax was not as “mind-blowing” as projected to be.

In “Black Museum,” a highway traveler (Letitia Wright) visits an odd museum containing rare criminal items with wild stories attached to them. The museum owner, Rolo Haynes (Douglas Hodge), hides the museum’s unsettling main piece behind a curtain.

This episode features a few short tales on the artifacts that are all loosely related, coming together at the episode’s climax.

For more content go to slpecho.com

METRO AT A GLANCE Isaac Wert isaacwert@slpecho.com

Photos used with permission from Columbia Pictures, Island Records, RCA Records, Hennepin Theater Trust

Dec. 20

Jan. 22

Feb. 4

Feb. 13-18

A stand-alone addition to the monstrous franchise, “Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle” provides a thrilling night at the movies.

Tickets are currently for sale around the metro area.

This January, popular rock band Fall Out Boy releases its highlyanticipated seventh studio album, “Mania.” The album is available for preorder on various media platforms.

Coinciding with his upcoming Super Bowl performance, Justin Timberlake releases his fifth studio album, “Man of the Woods.”

The album is available for preorder on media platforms.

Stephen Karam’s “The Humans,” which won the Tony Award for Best Play in 2016, will be showing at the Orpheum this February.

Tickets are currently for sale, starting at $29.