Echo issue 11, June 5

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Quiz Bowl participates in national competition PAGE 4

eSports plays in its second tournament PAGE 9

Wednesday, June 5, 2019 Volume 92 Issue 11 St. Louis Park High School 6425 W. 33rd Street St. Louis Park, MN 55426

CHILLING STORY Netflix original depicts life of serial killer PAGE 12

SLPECHO.COM

Photo Carissa Prestholdt

Last hurrah: Senior Natalia Caraballo wraps a car in saran wrap on senior ditch day May 31. Many of the senior ladies met that morning to write on cars as a way to leave their final mark on the school before they graduate. Seniors will be graduating at 7:30 p.m. June 6 at the stadium.

That’s a S wrap Seniors prepare for Graduation Talia Lissauer talialissauer@slpecho.com

enior Anna Kasper has dreamed of speaking at Graduation, but didn’t meet the traditional qualifications.

However, because of changes voted on by the Valedictions, she’ll get her wish.

“I always had this fantasy of speaking at Graduation but the traditional way to, is to have a 4.0 (GPA) and I (don’t), but when someone nominated me I was like let’s do it,” Kasper said.

Senior Cyrus Abrahamson said the Valedictorians know there’s many paths to success, and want to honor that.

“We felt like we represent a small portion of our class and our experiences are similar. Success isn’t measured on academics,” Abrahamson said.

Assistant principal Jessica Busse said the Valedictorians decided to give speak-

Graduation information Ceremony to include 14 speakers, four being Valedictorians.

When 7:30 p.m. June 6 Where Stadium

Infographic Sofia Seewald Source Scott Meyers

ing time to other students.

“There are 11 Valedictorians and they voted on not having all of the Valedictorians speak,” Busse said.

According to Abrahamson, seniors

nominated their peers and they auditioned in front of the Valedictorians.

“People were recommended through an anonymous survey by their peers, and then they spoke in front of the Valedictorians,” Abrahamson said.

Kasper said she is looking forward to Graduation but is not looking forward to leaving some people.

“I am ready to graduate, but I’m sad that it’s the last time I’ll see some people,” Kasper said.

Abrahamson said the senior class has enjoyed this change and he is excited for the new perspectives.

“We have several people who I think will be very good speakers, alongside the Valedictorians,” Abrahamson said.

Graduation commencement will take place at 7:30 p.m. June 6 at the Stadium.

Synchro takes the podium Team awarded third at State Sam St. Clair & Yonit Krebs samst.clair@slpecho.com yonitkrebs@slpecho.com

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fter placing fourth at State for the last couple of years, captain Hope Cassman was excited when the team won third place her senior year.

“I would say getting third overall was our biggest accomplishment because the last few years we got fourth, so we were really trying to beat Forest Lake to gain our third spot back,” Cassman said.

Construction at the University of Minne-

sota pool, State’s typical location, meant this year’s competition took place in Rochester.

“Being at the Rochester pool versus the U of M pool was a big change,” Cassman said. “Their sound system was not meant for synchro competitions, so that was a challenge for us, being able to hear the music.”

Assistant coach Jessica Gust said the team’s breadth of talent contributed to its success.

“It helps to have a great short team that got to spend another year in short,” Gust said.

“The scores are determined by total number of points across all of the divisions and all of the categories. Being able to have people place in almost every single category is really what made it posFor more content go to sible for us to be slpecho.com third.”

Photo Sam St. Clair

Strike a pose: Junior Annie Breyak does a pop up at synchro’s dress rehearsal May 14. Breyak placed fifth in the extended solo division at State May 24.

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NEWS

Echo Wednesday, June 5, 2019

I think (construction) will interfere with some learning next year, so I think they should get it done quickly.

Shaqued Ben-Harush, junior

WEB PREVIEW

Photo Grace Farley

Echowan distributes yearbooks

fter nine months of stress and hard work, managing editor and senior Ilsa Olsen said distribution day is extremely rewarding for the Echowan staff.

“Distribution day is literally the best day ever,” Olsen said. “Just handing the book to people and seeing them look through it and say ‘oh my god it looks so good’ and ‘oh that’s me’ is such a good feeling.”

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Construction to continue into summer New facilities opening in 2019-2020

Abby Intveld abbyintveld@slpecho.com

Gabe Kaplan & Samiya Mohamed gabekaplan@slpecho.com samiyamohamed@slpecho.com

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reshman Jacob Khabie said he is excited to see the results of the construction in the fall, and feels it is worth the short term annoyance.

“Even though it’s a little bit of an inconvenience now, I think it will turn out really nicely,” Khabie said.

Park facilities manager Tom Bravo said the high school will be adding a new weight room during the summer. The rest

Photo Emily Zeissman

Birdfeeder offers summer meal plans

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he Birdfeeder provides meal security for students in need during the school year. According to junior Victoria Martinez, this service will continue into the summer.

“During the summer we want (students) to not have to worry about providing for their family,” Martinez said.

Tennis courts Weight room Offices Dining commons Central kitchen

Infographic Sofia Seewald Source Tom Bravo & slpschools.org

start of the new year.

“When the children come back to school for (physical education) classes, we will have brand new locker rooms, plus an area for sports activities and then we’ll be remodeling the old district office space at the high school so that everyone is on the second floor,” Bravo said.

Turman said she is looking forward to using the newly constructed locker rooms.

“I do sports and I’m going to do a winter sport and a spring sport next year, so I’m very excited to have that opportunity to use renovated, new locker rooms,” Turman said.

Dani Orloff daniorloff@slpecho.com

‘IGOR’ provides new take on rap sound

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fter senior Cailey Hansen Mahoney followed the Hennepin County Sheriff’s race for office in 2018, she said she was interested in learning more about newly elected Sheriff Dave Hutchinson’s policies.

“His race was really interesting to me, and I think it had a lot of ideological issues that were brought up in a way that we don’t see in a lot of races,” Hansen-Mahoney said.

According to the Huffington Post, Dave

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• • • • •

of the current projects will be completed by August 12.

“Over the summer, we plan to (build) a brand new fitness and weight room at the high school. It won’t be done until January,” Bravo said.

Freshman Ada Turman said she is glad the bulk of the construction will be completed while school is out of session because of the disruption it causes.

“I feel like it’s a really good change, but also it’s a little bit disruptive right now. I’m glad that it’s happening over the summer,” Turman said.

According to Bravo, students will enjoy new facilities at the

Newly elected officer discusses policies

Fair use from Genius

Amaia Barajas amaiabarajas@slpecho.com

High school summer 2019 construction projects

Hennepin County Sheriff visits Park

Maggie Klaers & Ruthie Posada maggieklaers@slpecho.com ruthieposadaslpecho.com

s the beginning notes of “IGOR’S THEME” started playing and accompanied with the cover art of the album I could tell that the whole theme of this album was the opposite of “Flower Boy.” “IGOR” is a completely separate beast of music, there is really no place too start.

Photo Carissa Prestholdt

Fenced in: Construction workers install a pole that will be part of the fence surrounding the construction of the new fitness center. According to facilities manager Tom Bravo, the center should be completed by January 2020. Other renovations on the school will begin in fall 2019.

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It’s always good to meet elected officials. We are his employer. We are the only people he’s accountable to.

Cailey Hansen-Mahoney, senior

Photo Grace Farley

Laying down the law: Hennepin County Sheriff David Hutchinson speaks to a small group of seniors in C350 June 3. Senior Cailey Hansen-Mahoney organized the event and allowed students to submit questions that they wanted Sherrif Hutchinson to answer.

Hutchinson received 2,300 more votes than Rich Stanek, the former Hennepin County Sheriff, in the 2018 election for the office.

Hennepin County Sheriff Dave Hutchinson said he decided to run for the office because he didn’t want the former sheriff to run uncontested.

“The former sheriff and I didn’t see eyeto-eye on a lot. I don’t think he was fulfilling what the people wanted. And really from the election that showed,” Hutchinson said.

Senior organizer Hansen-Mahoney said she coordinated the visit with Hutchinson.

“I saw that he had met with some students from Eden Prairie because he posted

on Twitter about it, so I direct messaged him over Twitter about it and he responded,” Hansen-Mahoney said.

According to Hansen-Mahoney, the conversation covered many different issues law enforcement encounter. Student attendees were able to write down their questions on note cards to be answered.

“We talked about the collaboration between the Hennepin county sheriff’s office and Immigration and Customs Enforcement, we talked about county prison conditions, we talked about how transgender inmates are treated, and police use of force,” Hansen-Mahoney said.

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I think it’s a cool way to show people we don’t need Pride Month to show that people who are LGBTQ+ are important.

Owen Campbell, junior

STUDENT LIFE

Echo Wednesday, June 5, 2019

Teen pride creates inclusive community for youth Photo Sadie Yarosh

Show some pride: A Teen Pride volunteer serves free Chipotle to Pride attendees. The Teen Pride event was June 1 at Loring Park. The celebration included many booths and activities, informing people about the LGBTQ+ community. Pride will be June 22-23 at Loring Park.

Festival offers LGBTQ+ teens opportunities Marta Hill, Maggie Klaers & Kate Schneider martahill@slpecho.com maggieklaers@slpecho.com kateschneider@slpecho.com

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fter attending Twin Cities Pride last year, junior Isaac Wahl said he found the courage to come out because of support he felt from the community.

“For me personally, Pride is what made me come out as bisexual,” Wahl said. “I have always known that I was bisexual, but going to Pride made me feel like it was OK to talk to people about it, because everyone else there was so accepting of it and of me.”

Teen Pride, which took place June 1, helps teens find a community, according to Wahl.

“A great thing about normal Pride (is) that it involves all age groups, like I have seen 4-year olds, and I have seen elderly couples,” Wahl said.

“I think Teen Pride is really good because it is so hard to find that kind of community for teens, especially because a lot of teens struggle with reaching out.”

Gender Sexuality Alliance (GSA) adviser Kyle Sweeney said Teen Pride offered a chance for teens to celebrate their identity.

“Pride is such a huge event now, and I think it’s more of a community event, not just for LGBTQ folks. Teen Pride is more specifically for teens who are LGBTQ,” Sweeney said.

According to Sweeney, in addition to meeting new people, Teen Pride gives teens the support and community they lack at their own schools.

“Other kids from schools that might be more isolated would get a chance to see that there are

What is Pride?

Pride is a festival to celebrate the LGBTQ+ community. It includes food, music, parades and more. These festivals occur nationwide and both LGTBQ+ people and allies of the community are welcome to participate.

When is 2019 Minneapolis Pride?

Minneapolis Pride is scheduled to take place June 22-23.

Where is 2019 Minneapolis Pride?

Loring Park 1382 Willow Street Minneapolis Infographic Maggie Klaers Source Twin Cities Pride

people out there just like them that are dealing with the same things,” Sweeney said.

Senior Chris Schons said Teen Pride offers a great opportunity for students at Park and greater Twin Cities area to feel accepted.

“I think (Teen Pride) is a great thing. It’s a great opportunity for people especially at our school and in the middle school. It’s a really accepting place. People are free to be themselves,” Schons said.

Wahl said when he attended Pride, he felt very welcomed and he believes others will too.

“People who maybe don’t feel accepted in society as it functions normally, they can go to Pride and feel very loved and accepted regardless of their sexuality, or their gender identity, all those things. I definitely felt the love,” Wahl said.

Despite progress, the LGBTQ+ community continues to face discrimination and hardships, according to Sweeney.

“There’s still some people that think being gay or being trans is not real or not OK. And although LGBTQ+ people have a lot more rights, there’s still violence against us and laws against us. We want to show who we are, that we’re just regular people and celebrate who we are,” Sweeney said.

Teen Pride gives students the opportunity to meet other LGBTQ+ teens in a safe environment, according to Sweeney.

“It’s good for teens to meet other teens. Within St. Louis Park there’s different pockets of kids who want to attend an event like this, they all know each other, so it might be good for them to meet people from other schools,” Sweeney said.

Wahl said Pride is not just a space for people in the LGBTQ community, anyone who wants to support the community can attend.

“If you are straight or don’t identify with the LGBTQ community you can still go to Pride and be an ally. It is not just a place for people in the community, others can come too,” Wahl said.

“Whether or not you are x, y or z, Pride is a place where everyone can go. Everyone is accepted and loved. Don’t be afraid.”

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FEATURES

Echo Wednesday, June 5, 2019

I think (going to Nationals) is great for the Quiz Bowl team. I don’t do any clubs so that’s cool.

Grecia Balbuena Tapia, freshman

WHAT'S THE POINT

D.C. serves as an important walk through time Talia Lissauer talialissauer@ slpecho.com

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wo months ago, my mom told me about the one-day work trip she was going on to Washington D.C. and asked if I wanted to go.

I hadn’t had the chance to go to D.C., so I quickly jumped at the opportunity.

May 17 was the big day.

We had six hours to see all eight memorials of the National Mall before visiting the Holocaust Museum later in the afternoon.

Whenever we talk about big wars in school, a big focus is on the death toll.

That was always the hardest part for me to understand — I couldn't wrap my head around those big numbers.

Four meWhat’s the morials POINT? helped Experiences me see are as impor- those wars in tant as a new learning light.

Each one went more in-depth with the death toll than the last.

I will never forget the way the Korean War Wall was set up by year so at the peak of the war the wall gets bigger to show how many soldiers died in that year. As the wall kept getting bigger, it made me realize how many lives 58,000 really is.

The last three hours of my trip was spent at the Holocaust Museum. It took us through the life of a Jew living in that time, showing how strong and powerful someone can be.

I had already learned about a majority of things in the museum, but it felt different learning about it surrounded by real artifacts.

With every floor the information got heavier. On the final floor there was a wall of artwork from kids during the Holocaust. When I saw it, the image of the war became clearer. The Holocaust didn't feel like it was only a part of history, it began to feel like it was yesterday and every victim was someone close to me.

D.C. is a walk through history, a place I think everyone should visit at some point. Each memorial does so much more than honor the lives of those lost, it teaches you why some people did what they did.

There is so much that cannot be taught in a classroom but can be taught through experiences and that is what the National Mall and Holocaust Museum did for me.

Photo Marta Hill

Fitting everything together: Senior Lily Johnson fits a piece into the puzzle at puzzle club May 23. Puzzle clubs leaders are seniors, and do not have a plan for next year, according to senior Greta Long.

Puzzle Club finishes year Pieces come together for final meeting Marta Hill & Noah Orloff martahill@slpecho.com noahorloff@slpecho.com

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he future of Puzzle Club at Park is still unclear because no one has stepped up to lead the club next year, according to Puzzle Club student leader, senior Greta Long.

“I’m not sure if it will continue next year,” Long said. “At the moment there is no line of succession for next year.”

When reflecting on the inaugural school year of Puzzle Club, adviser Julie Schilz said she found areas of improvement for the club.

“I would like to see it expanded in the future. If it were to be done again I would want to do a better job of advertising it so more people get involved,” Schilz said. “I am happy to host it but I don’t want to force students to do puzzles, so it would have to be a student-led idea again.”

Schilz said Puzzle Club served as a social activity for students

who may not have known each other before.

“I think it is a really great way for kids who don't normally hang out outside of school to come see each other and meet each other,” Schilz said.

Long said starting Puzzle Club was motivated by the idea of including new people.

“It’s a good group of people who hang out here. It is a very chill club — very fun to meet people this way,” Long said.

According to Long, Puzzle Club has an opportunity to compete in the inaugural year of Puzzlepalooza, but are unsure if they will be able to attend.

“I’m not sure if we are going

to go to Puzzlepalooza yet, but there is prize money so maybe,” Long said. “It’s a team competition with a 500-piece puzzle, and whoever does it fastest gets money, so it could be fun.”

According to the St. Louis Park calendar, Puzzlepalooza will take place June 9 at the Recreational Outdoor Center.

Puzzlepalooza • • •

1-3 p.m. June 9 $30 registration fee Teams of two to four people

Infographic Marta Hill Source St. Louis Park Calendar

Quiz Bowl makes it to Nationals playoffs School club sends three teams to national tournament Carly Joseph, Izzy Kanne & Samantha Kelpfer carlyjoseph@slpecho.com, izzykanne@slpecho. com & samanthaklepfer@slpecho.com

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s senior Cailey Hanson-Mahoney looks back on her final Quiz Bowl Nationals tournament, she reflects on the work the team put into getting this far.

“A-team made playoffs, C-team went 1-9 and B-team went 4-6,” Hanson-Mahoney said. “We had a really great season.”

According to A-team member Daniel Hunegs, the tournament was enjoyable.

“It was a lot of fun because our team had been working really hard,” Hunegs said.

“We had been studying and doing old questions a lot, so it was just fun to play against other really good We had been study- competition.”

Hansoning and doing old Mahoney said the questions a lot so it tournament was was just fun to play more intense than against other really the others. good competition.

“It’s not as lighthearted. At Daniel Hunegs, senior regular games you

Photo Carly Joseph

Trivia: Seniors Max Holden and Anil Pillay practice Quiz Bowl in preparation for Nationals.

Nationals were May 25-26 in Atlanta. The B-team went 4-6 at the tournament. can joke around with teams but at Nationals some are really serious and have a lot riding on it,” Hanson-Mahoney said.

Quiz Bowl member, junior Patrick Djerf said this year was record-breaking for the Park Quiz Bowl team in many ways.

“SLP has never had a team qualify for playoffs before,” Djerf said. “We’ve (also) never sent three teams to Nationals before so this was a big deal for us.”

According to Hunegs, the tournament was a step up from past Quiz Bowl events.

“The questions were a little harder and a

lot of times you would be playing in conference rooms at hotels, so it’s different than playing in a classroom setting which we are used to,” Hunegs said.

Djerf said he is proud of the teams.

“I think we held our own against our competitors who were there and our A-team did very well,” Djerf said.

According to Hunegs, the results were impressive.

“People should know that even though A-team went to the playoffs, all of the teams did really well,” Hunegs said.

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I feel like it's fun, you know, dancing — it has been passed down (through generations).

FEATURES Echo Wednesday, June 5, 2019

Zuhayb Yassin, freshman

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IN THE SPOTLIGHT

Baile Folklórico inspires cultural connection Freshman dances with dance troupe Colombia Live!

Dayanara Mora Zengel, freshman What involvement do you have with the dance group, Colombia Live!?

I'm a dancer for Colombia Live!. So I dance in one of their many groups, and I have been dancing with them for the last four years, it’s a lot of fun.

How did you get started with Colombia Live!?

I went to Park Spanish Immersion and was involved in the Baile Folklórico (dance) program there. The women who did the costumes for that, her name is Marta, she organizes Colombia Live! and she asked me to join. So I joined in sixth grade.

How can students get involved?

Just contact Marta, that's basically all it takes.

How often do you perform?

It kind of depends. (Marta) usually gets invitations kind of randomly, so it depends on who invites us to come perform. We perform all over. One of our biggest ones was (when) we performed at the Ordway Theater. We have also performed at the Science Museum (of Minnesota), in parades and a lot of other places.

Why do you continue pursue dance with Columbia Live!?

First off because it’s fun. The people make it very enjoyable. We are a very tight community, so it’s nice to stay involved. There are about 20 people in my group, and we

Photo Kaia Myers

Lion Queen: Freshman Dayanara Mora Zengel performs with her dance group Colombia Live! May 3 at the Festival of Nations. The dance troupe practices every week Sunday from 4:30-6 p.m. range in age from 12 to 18. Colombia Live! also has adult dance groups and groups for younger kids.

What is your favorite part about dance?

I think my favorite part is performing — seeing it all come together on stage. It’s nice to see everything work out with the people you have made close relationships with and putting out something you have worked so hard on is really fun.

Why do you continue to help out at PSI? I love the school, I love the teachers, and I just wanted to give back to the community.

How many dances do you know? Do you learn new dances for every event?

It depends, we learn several dances each week and we practice them. Then, within the group we decided which ones we are going to perform. Then we have to figure out how to perfect those dance for a later performance.

How much did you participate in the Baile Folklórico program?

I did it all the way through elementary school. The shows (the weekend of May 3) were the first ones I wasn’t

involved in, but I came back and helped after I graduated from PSI. When I have helped with Baile Folklórico, I mainly helped second graders and fourth graders as an assistant and helped them learn their dances.

Why should people participate in activities like this?

I think it is important to educate ourselves on different cultures and get to know other cultures. Just get involved in new things that we aren’t familiar with.

Is the majority of your dance group Colombian?

I’m not, I am Costa Rican. There are girls in my group who are Colombian, but most of them actually aren’t. All the dances are from Colombia and Marta handles all the costuming. She has some help, but it is mostly her. She makes some pieces by hand, but some she orders online.

How did it feel to perform at the Festival of Nations?

At the start I was very nervous. It (was) a big crowd of people and knowing that people you are familiar with are going to be there just adds to the nerves and excitement.

I think I used those nerves to my advantage and did it 10 times better.

ACTIVITIES & AWARDS

Elementary, high school students unite in performance Anna Haen, Leo Dworsky mentor students at Aquila Annica Schultz annicaschultz@slpecho.com

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very Thursday afternoon, freshman Anna Haen and sophomore Leo Dworsky can be found helping fourth and fifth graders with their singing and dancing, according to Dworsky.

Anna Haen said she will teach the actors techniques to improve their performing.

“More than anything, I am excited to watch the growth with these young perform-

Performance facts • 6 p.m.

• June 5 • Maggie's Farm Theater Infographic Marta Hill Source Rachel Haen

ers and be able to work with them on choreography and staging,” Anna Haen said.

Rachel Haen, an Aquila kindergarten teacher, is putting the showcase together to help boost the young actors’ confidence.

“I wanted them to get pumped up and feel proud of performing and give them a little special community within the larger school,” Rachel Haen said.

According to Rachel Haen, she recruited Anna Haen, student director of the Aquila musicals, as well as Dworsky to assist her in preparing for the performance.

“I wanted to do something to let my fifth grade boys perform,” Rachel Haen said.

“In musical theater there is less boy participation and to let them meet this really fun high school singer encourages them to continue to sing.”

Dworsky said he has been

Marta Hill martahill@slpecho.com

Photo Noah Orloff

Dollars for Scholars ceremony uplifts recipients Photo Annica Schultz

Learning the notes: Sophomore Leo Dworsky models one of many songs he is teaching to fourth and fifth graders at Aquila, May 9. The students will perform a showcase for parents and community members June 5. teaching private vocal lessons at A Kopp Music Studios to kids around the same age as the students he is working with at Aquila.

“I agreed to help because I wanted to spend more time with kids. I’ve learned to be even more patient, which has helped me a lot with my teaching,” Dworsky said.

Anna Haen said she was able to pick songs she knew fit their vocal abilities.

“Watching them grow so much over the past years of performances adds a very

unique element in which we get to individually choose the music for each personality as well as vocal and acting strengths, perhaps pushing them to grow in new ways,” Anna Haen said.

Grant Hudson, an Aquila fifth grader, says he enjoys coming to rehearsals on Thursday nights and learning new things.

“I love being able to sing,” Hudson said. “One of the best things I learned is how to really project my voice and not be nervous.”

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his year over 100 seniors received scholarships to fund their futures from over 200 financial contributors at the Dollars for Scholars ceremony, according to event organizer Barb Nelson.

Praise for students’ achievement poured out of teachers and community members while students cheered for their classmates May 22 in the Auditorium.

Park Spanish Immersion hosts goodbye party

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s Park Spanish Immersion School Principal Corey Maslowski looks back on PSI's time at Central, he recalls positive memories.

“The school has had many great memories and is looking forward to what the new building has to offer,” Maslowski said.

For more content go to slpecho.com

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IN-DEPTH Echo Wednesday, June 5, 2019

Midwest Illinois

Columbia College Calvin Hatcher Morganna Oberdorfer Samantha St. Clair DePaul University Amaia Barajas Northwestern University Cyrus Abrahamson Emma Yarger School of the Art Institute of Chicago Natalia Caraballo

Indiana

Indiana University Marco Giovannelli

Iowa

Coe College Maggie Christiansen Iowa State University David Bryant Gavin Charpentier Anthony David Jacob Houts John Meyer Aaron Sledge Isaac Swartz Luther College Jaivanna Harseen Matthew Lidenberg Mount Mercy University Adam Kowski

The University of Iowa Violet Huber

Yousef Elbassal Macie Savage

Kansas

Dunwoody College of Technology Anand Datt Darius Hendry Donovan Hill Serena Moore Jonathan Olson

University of Kansas Culver Carden Ethan Kahn

Minnesota

Augsburg University Aisha Abdi Sawda Abdi Azhar Abshir Muna Ahmed Anisa Ali Muna Ali Sara Bacchus April Callahan Spencer Enright Owen Goddard Hibaq Issa Andrew Johnson Casey Kreie Raqiya Muse Kunga Norzin Shellcie Salas-Rea Bethel University Savannah Romero College of Saint Benedict Ngawang Chonzee Samantha Schug Concordia College Beck Bergland Maranda Hoogenraad Zoey Zachek Concordia University St. Paul Ahmed Aideed

Gustavus Adolphus College Joanna Bruse Jade Koenen Hamline University Bella Birkeland Hennepin Technical College Margarito CastanedaBenitez Ajai Datt Carson Novy Braulio Vela-Garay Macalester College Brahim Bouzrara Ifraah Dhegadub Mankato State University Jada Witherspoon Metropolitan State University Najma Jama Shukran Mohamed Mihretu Ravaz Minneapolis College of Art and Design Madeline Johnson

I’m going to miss (the seniors) a lot because we have a lot of close memories. I hope they succeed in college or wherever else they go.

Erin Brousseau, sophomore

Minneapolis Community and Technical College Abdullahi Abdullahi Lola Adelabu Steeve Adelin Aidan Barnes-Driscoll Sabnyyah Bilal Matthew Brown Anika Christianson Justin Chu Savitri Deonarain Noel Druxman Ja’Kayla Ellis Daejanae Frelix Myah Goff Tommy Holmes Naomi Jefferson Kenan Llmogi Ayaanle Mohamed Idriss Mohamed Maxwell Nelson Daniel Nicholson Millicent Orenge Halliet Otwori Christopher Schons Marley Spears Joseph Vainikka Roman Wheeler Daisy Widbloom Minnesota School of Cosmetology Allyiah Peterson Minnesota State University - Mankato Sara Anderson Alejandro Caceres-Aranda Hans Helberg Ryan Harnanan Brendon Johnson Aaron Kasic Lindsey Olson

Normandale Community College Mohamed Aden Leslie Arias Montoya Ezra Arkis Gaidah Azem Becka Bjorgaard Angela Burgara-Virgen Kayla Corpron Maxwell Dehn Emander Deward Toolsie Dilraj Sha’kayla Ellis Akili Farris Jeremy Frahm Abdulkadir Harbi Hodan Hassan Collin Johnson Boden Oelhafen Muhsin Osman Aaliyah Johnson Nyah Johnson Aminata Kuyateh Angelica Lopez-Solis Elisabeth McCallon Semaj Mitchell Kayla Perez Shaleah Rushing Dilpuneet Singh Brianna Smith Jacqueline Solis-Cano Grace Steffy Ava Townsend Mikaelle Vargas Oliver Willette

St. Catherine University Chardonnay Wallace

North Hennepin Community College Julio Burgara-Lara Franklin Tamay Pineda Brandonly Valenzuela Ramirez

University of Minnesota - Duluth Mohamoud Ahmed Natalie Aune William Halvorson Jariel Lopez-Barrera Gerald Perelman Haley Westwood

St. Cloud State University Daniel Gnali Trayviontay Herron Charisse Ondara Leo Zeigle St. Olaf College Nicolas Beaton Elizabeth Kent Greta Nackerud Sophia Olmen Jacob Olson Saint Paul College Zachary Bunkholt Nada Mohamed Ainee Mohamud The College of St. Scholastica Luke Boyum Transition Plus Andrew Friederichsen Alicia Hernandez Guzman Jessica Leadholm Samantha Tate University of Minnesota - Crookston Milkaso Dedefo

BIG THINGS AHEAD West

University of San Diego Keyshon Howard Bryn O’Gara

Arizona State University Zion Chappell

University of Southern California Sidney Hosfield

Arizona

Grand Canyon University Cecilia Brown Hope Ramsperger

Colorado

Oregon State University Delaney Wallerich

Rhode Island

Georgia

Pacific Northwest College of Art Devon Stanley

Vermont

Tennessee

East

Brown University Jack Ostrovsky

Saint Michael’s College Cecelia Schmelzle

Washington D.C.

University of Colorado Boulder Katherine Christiansen

Massachusetts

Claremont McKenna College Alexis Lee

University of Colorado Colorado Springs Madison McIntosh

Northeastern University Ilsa Olsen

American University Erica Dudley Grace Farley

Loyola Marymount University Anika Hanson

Montana

New York

South

California

San Diego State University Mary Fuentes Santa Monica College Andreina Rodriguez

Montana State University Samuel Jensen

Oregon

Lewis and Clark College Leo Finley Rachel Mattson

Boston College Gabrielle McCaa

Hofstra University Aidan Henry The New School Altheagrace Tyler Rochester Institute of Technology Caitlin Arf Anna Kasper

Florida

Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University Anil Pillay University of Miami Benjamin Klepfer

Emory University Danielle Orloff

Vanderbilt University Beck Rusley

Texas

Austin Community College Chloe Blodgett

Lebanon

Notre Dame University Louaize Najib Rahal

Gap Year Bosnia and Herzegovina Caroline Garland

Brazil

Abroad

Maria Luiza Vivone

University of Manitoba Patrick Wolfbauer

Grace Lynch

Italy

Yonah Davis Yonit Krebs

Canada

Temistocle Calzecchi Onesti Elena Jommi

Germany Israel Italy

Abigail Feldman

“ University of Minnesota - Morris Richard Lussier University of Minnesota - Twin Cities Grace Adams-Maass Mahad Ade Leensa Ahmed Ayan Ali Christopher Anondson Kyle Ballenger-Gilmore Maximilian Bechtold Jake Benbow Brita Bjorgaard Dylan Brandt Timothy Collins Jenna Cook Nietzsche Deuel Samson Diamond Luciano Diaz Jauregui Lindsey Epstien Eva Goldfarb Dylan Gruye Creston Halstead Henry Hein Ethan Hoeschen Daniel Hunegs Abigail Intveld Anna Jennissen Tanner Jensen Lillian Johnson Nolan Kelly Lily Kulevsky Mazie Lainsbury Alexander Lehman Melissa Llamas-Moreno Greta Long Eleanor Meys Adna Mohamud Marian Mohamud Ayanna Nathan Muna Osman Emma Peterson

I’m looking forward to the all night party because it’s an opportunity to say goodbye to my senior friends for the last time.

IN-DEPTH Echo Wednesday, June 5, 2019

Emmett Foner, senior Khalyma Robinson Rachel Salzer Jonathan Sirotin William Staib University of Northwestern Grace Hammond University of St. Thomas Ridwan Aden Luke Anderson Anthony Odens Finnegan Reddan Claudia Stone Elizabeth Tapia Vizcarra Winona State University Soubane Abdi Amber Tran

Missouri

University of Missouri Kansas City Emmanuel Iwe Zinedine Kroeten

Nebraska

University of Nebraska Lincoln David Gutierrez

North Dakota North Dakota State University Tianna Beaman Madelina Hoffman Krista Morhauser Anya Morrison University of North Dakota Claire Middleton

Ohio

Central State University Madeline EduardoGonzalez Krishana Spencer Mareona Williams Oberlin College Estelle Tronson The Ohio State University Cailey Hansen-Mahoney Ohio Wesleyan University Olivia Guenzel

South Dakota

Dakota State University Alessandro Giannetti

Wisconsin

Chippewa Valley Technical College James Cullen Lawrence University Anastasia Armbrecht David Benjamin Max Holden Leila Raymond Marquette University Maria Olivia Mosby University of Wisconsin Eau Claire Hope Cassman Emmett Foner Jackson Hand Benjamin Hauer

7

Evelyn Nelson KJ Preston Pepperell Breanna Thompson University of Wisconsin La Crosse Aidan Cowley Susanna Hu University of Wisconsin Madison Griffin Barden Adam Bauer Sophia Davenport Lara Garcia Oppriecht Will Hannon Katherine Hardie Emma Kempf Alexis Machoka Neil Walsh Rachel Young

1

University of Wisconsin Milwaukee Oliver Swenson Quinn Whitlow University of Wisconsin - Stout Brenda Givens Paige Slavik Halle Weinmann Leo Wildgen-White University of Wisconsin Superior Jack Hanson Viterbo University Samuel Gage

2

3 Madagascar

U.S. Marines

New Jersey

U.S. Navy

Nels Hoikka

Patriot McDonald

Unknown location

Lily Anderson Aneadra Davis-Kellogg Brett Duncan

Military U.S. Army

William Erdmann Madelynn Schmitz

U.S. Army Reserves

Noah Houser Bryan Huynh Thomas Pelowitz

Daniel Martinez

Aniyah Satchell

Working Sean Davenport Jr. Wyatt Gann Isaak Kimmel Nicholas Medina Fabio Leyva Ashley Severson Latrell Thornton

Undecided Jamelia Addison Da’Trell Armstrong Ezequiel Beltran Nechama Buchbinder Quentin Cloutier Kelvin DaSilva Mariam Ganiyu Mary Gleason Amanda Glidden

Hats off!: 1. Seniors Andriena Rodriguez and Aisha Abdi pose for a picture at the multicultural show April 12.

Orioles fly together: Seniors roar as the football team runs out onto the field during the Homecoming game. The seniors will graduate 7:30 p.m.

June 6 at the Stadium.

Francis Houck Ahmad Hudspeth Issa Issa Kaha Jara Roderick Jones Carter Klimek Lioul Minas Fatuma Mohamed Anthony Rayson Torence Sly Ja’Ron Smith Evan Worrell

2. Seniors Rachel Young and Anna Jennissen celebrate during the teachers versus students basketball game during a pep fest Sept. 21.

Unknown Ahmed Ali Mohamed Ibrahim Nichole Kirkendall Mustafa Mire Ahmed Mohamed Hibo Mohamed Ladan Omar Vesaly Romo-Burgos Mohamed Sharif Alyssa Strobel Valen Watson

Information provided by the Echo senior survey and confirmed by the Counseling Office This spread was organzied by Yonit Krebs, Evie Nelson & Dani Orloff Design by Creston Halstead, Isabel Kjaer, Maggie Klaers & Sam St. Clair

3. Senior Danny Hunegs smiles as he is crowned Homecoming King Sept. 17.

4. Senior Ryan Harnanan cheers alongside his fellow classmates at a a pep fest Sept. 21.

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8

“

SPORTS Echo Wednesday, June 5, 2019

Track did pretty good this year.

Girls won conference this year, and we had a couple people make it to state.

Evan Nelson, sophomore

OUT OF THE PARK

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Overcoming a traumatic incident Adin Zweigbaum adinzweigbaum@ slpecho.com

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t was the summer going into my freshman year and I was on track to play high school football for the first time. I had just a few more weeks left before I got to start playing football.

July came around and I was attending the summer camp I go to every year.

I was sitting down minding my own business when my friend jokingly lifted me onto his shoulders.

I remember yelling at him to put me down, but he didn’t.

I fell off his shoulders, trying to catch myself but it was already too late.

My arm was facing the wrong direction, my bone was clearly visible. 911 was called, and the ambulance rushed to my camp.

It took almost two hours to get to the hospital. At the hospital we found out I shattered my elbow.

After I returned home from camp, I remember being devastated.

I was supposed to be playing football, but instead, I was stuck in a cast.

However, I didn’t give up and I made to stay What’s the sure a part of POINT? the team.

I constantly attended practices and games to help the team.

Although I was merely a water boy, I made sure to keep a positive attitude and cheer on my team.

The hardest part was recovering from surgery.

The doctor said I might never be able to open up my arm all the way ever again.

I had to struggle through the physical therapy — the extreme pain of just opening my arm hurt me both mentally and physically.

Thankfully, I made it through all the difficulties of recovering. Although I still feel some pain in my arm, I’m back playing football.

This year as a sophomore I was able to play some varsity football, even after my injury.

I never gave up and kept working towards making my arm stronger and staying healthy.

I made a full recovery, and am now back lifting weights, and more importantly back on the field.

Never give up and keep a positive attitude

3

4

1

5 Photos Abby Prestholdt

1: Sophomore Sajid Nathim runs in the 4x200 meter race at the Section meet May 30. 2: Eighth grader Jimmy Hager jumps over the hurdles in the 300-meter hurdle race. 3: Junior Joseph Donahue competes alongside runners from Benilde and Cooper in the 100-meter race, qualifying him for State. 4: Freshman Josie Mosby begins the 1600-meter race. Mosby finished in second with a time of 5:05 qualifying her for the State meet. 5: Seventh grader Ruby Massie, senior Olivia Mosby, freshman Olivia Brown, Josie Mosby and seventh grader Jersey Miller cheer on their teammates during the Sections meet.

Track and field competes in Sections Park athletes advance to State meet David Bryant davidbryant@slpecho.com

A

s the track team advances through Sections, freshman Josie Mosby said she was ecstatic when she realized she placed second in the girls 1600-meter race and qualified for State.

“I was really confused because I have had such a bad season, and I didn’t think I had it in me. I haven’t really come close to that time in over a year so it feels really good, but also doesn’t feel real,” Mosby said.

Boys’ track coach Kelson Mackenzie said Sections is an enjoyable competition to watch his players compete at a high level.

“We have focused on coming into this meet one race at a time. A couple of guys are going for two or three races against tough (competition),” Mackenzie said.

Senior Nick Medina said he wasn’t satisfied by his throws in shot put, despite placing first and heading to State.

“I could have done better. I felt like I did OK for the day, but I definitely could have pushed myself and gotten a higher mark, but it was still cool to get there and go back to State again,” Medina said.

Junior Joseph Donahue said he was proud he qualified for State in his fourth competitive 100-meter dash.

“My first 100 (meter) I ever ran was a really bad time, but slowly I have dropped and dropped with big personal records with only running it four times this year,” Donahue said.

“Once I realized I qualified I was excited because I have never gone to State before and I am just really excited to run against the best of the best.”

With several athletes from Park advancing to State, Mackenzie said he was incredibly honored to be part of such a driven team.

“I’ve been proud of the entire team and I’m not just saying that, the people here have put in the work, they showed up and they really made it happen,” Mackenzie said.

The State meet for Park Track and Field will be 4 p.m. June 7 and 8 at Hamline University.

A theatre community for young people.

On Stage June 13-16

Coming Soon . . .

Performances July 12-21

bluewatertheatre.com

“

I think (eSports) is already an incredibly large sporting phenomenon across the United States, and I think we should embrace it socially.

William Kralick, junior

SPORTS

Echo Wednesday, June 5, 2019

eSports team places in three events

MEET THE ATHLETE

Who Tommy Tight Grade Freshman Sport Golf

Partnership with local companies provides supplies for tournament

When did you start playing golf?

I started playing golf when I was about 5 years old.

Emma Yarger emmayarger@slpecho.com

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ccording to eSports coach Jake Utities, Park competed in the second eSports tournament in Minnesota history.

“I think (eSports) is incredibly important for several reasons. One, it’s blowing up.

If you’re paying attention to the scene, it’s getting bigger and bigger and bigger by the year,” Utities said. “As far as culture goes — the culture is for sure leaning toward eSports.”

Sophomore Benn Kahtzobitz said Utities partnered with company ESquared to put on the tournament June 1-2. “(eSports) is not a new community but it’s a growing community at the high school level. I think it’s a great way to meet new people I met everyone on my team through eSports and now we’re friends,” Kahtzobitz said.

Freshman William Bambridge said the networking opportunities provided at the event make him excited for future opportunities related to eSports.

“I really just enjoy playing for the future,

Photo Nolan Kelly

Teamwork makes the dream work: eSports club adviser Jacob Utities helps senior Richard Lussier with equipment difficulties. SLPHS varsity and junior varsity played in an “Overwatch” tournament against Wayzata. and I can’t wait to see what comes next so being able to talk with people that could potentially hone that with college recruiters,” Bambridge said. “There’s not one set path for me. I just want to see where I can go from here.”

Park placed No. 1 in “Counter-Strike: Global Offensive” and No. 2 in both “Super Smash Bros Ultimate” and “Overwatch.”

Park didn’t place in “League of Legends” and didn’t compete in “Fortnite.”

According to Utities, multiple companies came together to make the tournament possible for the eSports teams “The kids are getting uniforms as well, so that they have something to rep their school,” Utities said. “X Rocker who’s providing the headsets and the gaming chairs.”

This tournament concludes the eSports 2018-2019 season.

Gamers galore: Senior Thomas Pelowitz plays “Overwatch.”

Tournament placing “Super Smash Bro’s Ulitmate,” second “Overwatch,” second “Counterstrike: Global Offensive,” first “Fortnite,” did not play “Leauge of Legions,” No Place

Boys’ lacrosse ends season

Nolan Kelly nolankelly@slpecho.com

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Why did you decide to start playing golf?

I started playing mostly because my dad was playing a lot and he got me into it.

What is your favorite part about playing golf?

If you hit a good shot, it could end up in a bad position and if you hit a bad shot, you could end up right where you want to be. I like that about the sport.

What is the most challenging part about playing golf?

The most challenging part is definitely staying positive because you can get a lot of bad breaks and shoot a bad score even if you’re playing well. It’s really frustrating too because you can practice a lot but still shoot bad.

How do you practice golf in the offseason?

I belong to the Minneapolis Country Club so we have a simulator there in the basement. I sometimes go to the Braemar Golf Dome too.

What’s different about a golf simulator in comparison to playing outside?

One thing for sure is the weather. The simulator doesn’t take into effect wind.

If it’s colder, the ball is not going to fly as far and if it’s warmer it will fly farther. The simulator doesn’t take into account all of that. Putting is also really hard in the simulator because you’re not actually putting on a green — you can’t really see the break.

Park falls to Totino-Grace 0-14 espite ending its season on another shutout, Park knows that it made leaps and bounds toward rebuilding its team, according to junior Alexander Hager.

“I have seen some improvement throughout the season,” Hager said. “I’ve seen the team grow.”

Despite working with a young and inexperienced team, Park still lost morale towards the end of the game May 28, according to Hager.

“We were doing really well in the first half but we just started falling off,” Hager said.

“People were hanging their heads.”

Although the team did not perform at the level of other teams this season, every game

9

Photo Ella Hammerstrand

Go for it: Junior Flynn Spano cradles the ball with his stick while running the ball toward the opponent’s goal. The score of Park’s final game of the season against Totino-Grace was 0-14. provided valuable learning time for the newer and younger players, according to assistant coach Carlos Siguenza.

“Certain kids who have less experience are now able to come out, get the ball and be confident with it,” Siguenza said.

After losing 18 seniors last year, the team was prepared for a less successful season, said junior Parker Brynildson.

“We all knew it was going to be a rebuilding season,” Brynildson said. “All about getting better and learning how to play as a team.”

According to Siguenza, the coaches were far from disappointed with the team.

“As a whole this season, we saw improvements from every player,” Siguenza said. “Whether or not the score reflected that, us coaches were able to see it.”

Even though Park was not able to secure any victories this season, the team persevered until the final game, kept its head up and fought till the end of every match, according to Brynildson.

“The season as a whole was positive,” Brynildson said. “We all got better as a team, and I am

excited for next season.”

According to Siguenza, the coaches saw success in other important aspects of the season, rather than the number of games won and goals scored.

“It’s not about the score,” Siguenza said. “It’s about giving one hundred percent effort and fighting all the way through” This year, the team will be celebrating the graduation of just two seniors, goalkeeper Noah Houser and defenseman David Bryant, staggering the team much less than the loss of the previous season.

What are your goals for the rest this season?

We have a two-day Section tournament and you have to qualify for the second day.

And so, I’d like to qualify for the second day of Sections, and obviously I’d love to make it to State.

How has golf impacted your life?

Golf has helped me kind of become more of a perfectionist. It has helped me realize that everything I do has to be perfect. It has also been really relaxing for me and when I’m stressed out with school and other stuff, golf just helps keep me relax.

Sofia Seewald sofiaseewald@slpecho.com

“

10 OPINIONS

Echo Wednesday, June 5, 2019

Echo Editor-in-chiefs: *Marta Hill & *Dani Orloff Managing editors: *Amaia Barajas, *Grace Farley, *Abby Intveld, *Yonit Krebs, *Sam St. Clair Photo editors: Claire Bargman, Abby Prestholdt, Carissa Prestholdt Design editors: Creston Halstead, *Isabel Kjaer, *Maggie Klaers Copy editors: *Jenna Cook, Emma Leff, *Noah Orloff, *Emma Yarger Assistant copy editor: Ruthie Posada News editor: *Sofia Seewald Features editor: *Kaia Myers In-depth editor: *Evelyn Nelson Special projects & profiles editor: Talia Lissauer Sports editors: Sophie Olmen & Sadie Yarosh Opinions editor: *Gabriel Kaplan Entertainment editor: David Bryant Social media editors: Ruby Stillman, Breanna Thompson, Hayley Westwood Broadcast editor: Yonah Davis Business managers: Anika Hanson & Rachel Salzer Video editor: Izzy Kanne Staff: Neb Bekele, Henry Brettingen, Tamar Gewirtz, Tenzin Gyaldatsang, Katie Hardie, Carly Joseph, Nolan Kelly, Samantha Klepfer, Sophia Livingston, Alejandro ManzanoGomez, Ethan Meisler, Samiya Mohamed, Maria Perez-Barriga, Megan Raatz, Ben Sanford, Kate Schneider, Maddie Schutte, Jade Shionoya, Isaac Wahl, Emily Ziessman, Lucy zumBrunnen, Adin Zweigbaum

I think (having commencement speakers) is a pretty good idea, so they can share their own opinion and story.

Antwon Lymas, sophomore

OUR PERSPECTIVE

New Graduation speakers allow for inclusivity

B

ecause we are an upstanding community, we must strive to ensure all voices within our community are heard.

Every year families of high school students come together for Commencement and expect to hear the year’s valedictorians speak. However, this class’s 11 valedictorians voted to allow other members of the senior class to speak at graduation.

After nominations and auditions, four additional Commencement speakers were selected to speak along with four valedictorians.

The Echo Editorial Board praises the valedictorians for allowing other seniors with different experiences from high school to speak at Graduation.

Although the valedictorians deserve recognition for working hard throughout high school, it is very important the senior class is represented by other speakers with different forms of success and more diverse backgrounds.

With new perspectives, the Graduation speeches will be more relatable and more engaging.

According to assistant principal

Photo Grace Farley

Hi mom: Graduate Ben Baaken celebrates with his fellow graduating seniors of the 2018 class. The 2019 seniors will be graduating June 6 at the Stadium.

Jessica Busse, valedictorians must have taken 15 advanced classes throughout high school. Because this graduating class experienced the honors block in which each student had to choose all or no honors, many were set on a course in which it became harder to take advanced classes and therefore became harder to qualify for valedictorian.

We believe with the racial disparities in honors courses and non-honors courses, expanding the speakers to the entire senior class will be more inclusive.

The Editorial Board does propose,

however, valedictorians create a speaker selection system is not audition-based.

If speakers are chosen by valedictorians, it is hard to ensure they are selected in a fair, non-biased way. In addition, having non-valedictorian Commencement speakers at Graduation in the future should be viewed as a norm, rather than a praiseworthy reform.

This is a step forward and we should be proud of our seniors for creating a space for representation of all experiences, but Park must continue to change until it is truly an inclusive community.

Principal: Scott Meyers Printer: North Star Media Adviser: Lori Keekley! *Denotes editorial board member MEDIA POLICIES The Echo is the official studentproduced 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 Hall of Fame member; 2011, 2016, 2017 NSPA Print Pacemaker Finalist; 2013, 2014, 2015, 2018 National Print Pacemaker Award Recipient; 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2019 Online Pacemaker Finalist; 2018 NSPA Online Pacemaker, CSPA; 2019 CSPA Gold Crown; 2015 CSPA Hybrid Gold Crown; 2012, 2014, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019 CSPA Silver Crown; JEM All-State.

Closed trails prove inconvenient

Southwest Light Rail worthwhile in long term for runners Lucy zumBrunnen lucyzumbrunnen@slpecho.com

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ood things come to those who wait. This principle applies to the Southwest Light Rail Transit (SWLRT) currently being constructed. Even though it is a personal inconvenience, given that I use the trails for sports, the end result will be very useful for our community. The Federal Transit Administration gave recent approval and it was decided the SWLRT would be constructed through Eden Prairie to downtown Minneapolis. The estimated cost of the project is

Art Maggie Klaers

To Ted Bundy: Troy Bolton would never.

$2.003 billion, and will include 16 new stations and connection to other systems of transportation, according to Metro Transit.

The overall benefit of the light rail is huge as it will help eliminate a large amount of individuals traveling by car.

This not only decreases the amount of exhaust being emitted into the air, but also offers a safe way for countless people to travel.

Although the SWLRT will be a positive addition to our area, it also comes with disadvantages in the present. For example, the closing of the Cedar Lake Trail in St. Louis Park until fall of 2021. In addition, the Kenilworth Trail in Minneapolis will be closed until summer 2022, according to Twin Cities Pioneer Press.

The construction is currently affecting the community of people who use the trail, including our very own cross country and track teams, for which I am a part of. With no access to either of these trails, planning new routes will just be a part of the season.

Although finding new places to run is a small milestone for team, I believe we’ll have fun running new locations and discovering new trails. However, it saddens me to know I won’t be able to go on the trail again until my college years.

In the grand scheme of things, the long term benefits of the SWLRT out rule the current disadvantages. I hope it grows to be a great resource for many people to use, and increasingly improves our environment for years to come.

I hope I can return once it’s complete in the future and go for a run and the path I hold so many memories on.

To Graduation: You all have big things ahead.

To Echowan: You are number Wan in my heart.

Art Maggie Klaers

E.N, A.I, J.C.

“

Personally, I think getting an abortion is wrong.

But, I don’t think that belief should be placed on anyone.

Maddie Olson, sophomore

OPINIONS

Echo Wednesday, June 5, 2019

A

Xcel Energy’s climate reforms fall short

reducing its emissions, Xcel s a planet, we are is doing its part in staving off on a crash course the worst effects of climate with the climate change, but it is essential crisis — but it’s not other utilities and greenhouse too late to change policy. gas emitters join the fight According to the United against climate change.

Nations, we must cut In every possible way, we global emissions in half in must transition away from just 10 years in order to limit global warming to 1.5 degrees fossil fuels; meaning massively reforming our energy Celsius. However, a large grid, transportation and every number of nations lack the other contributor to greenresources necessary to achieve house gas emissions. this benchmark, leaving the Xcel also announced it responsibility on wealthy govwould be ernments like a Minnesota to Xcel Energy is doing opening new natural be ambitious. its part in staving off gas plant, As St. Louis signalling its Park’s electric- the worst effects of ity provider climate change, but continued relion fossil and the largest it is essential other ance fuels, accordutility in the utilities and green- ing to MPR. state, Xcel is leading the house gas emitters It’s far too late charge in this join the fight against in the game to still be using regard. climate change. fossil fuels, let The comalone develpany will be oping a greater reliance on closing its last coal plants in them. Instead, Xcel should the upper Midwest by 2030, use its money to invest more according to MPR News. By

The company to retire remaining coal plants, state must do more Gabriel Kaplan gabrielkaplan@slpecho.com

11

in renewable energy.

The company does not cover all of Minnesota, meaning other electric utilities must step up as well. Furthermore, electricity only makes up 28 percent of emissions, according to the Environmental Protection Agency, so we must also address our reliance on oil in transportation and the use of fossil fuels in agriculture and industry.

Governments must step up to hasten the transition. St. Louis Park has done a great job of reducing its impact on the environment through its Climate Action Plan, but we can always do more.

Even if we, as a state and a community, are on track to cut our emissions in half by 2030 — as the United Nations calls for — we still have a responsibility to do more because we have the resources to do more.

If we are to prevent the climate crisis, we must transition away from fossil fuels as soon as possible.

Art Sophie Livingston

POINT COUNTERPOINT

Abortion limits passed in 9 states, several challenged in court Additional bans proposed in many states, the majority of which ban abortion after fetal heartbeat can be detected in so called ‘fetal heartbeat’ laws, according to The Hill.

State abortion laws are saving babies’ lives across the country Murder is illegal — infants included Adin Zweigbaum adinzweigbaum@slpecho.com

K

eith Moore said life begins at conception in “Essential of Human Embryology,” therefore abortion banning bills are consequential to saving human lives.

Although I almost completely agree with these laws, it is unbearable to imagine the pain an individual would have to live through after being raped. This is why these victims need access to abortion.

However, the majority of abortions aren’t because of this aforementioned problem, according to the Guttmacher Institute.

The Guttmacher Institute found that since 1973 there have been more than 50 million infants killed by abortion. That is almost 15 percent of the current American population being legally murdered.

Infants have the same right to life as any American citizen.

PARK TRAIL

Pro-life movement should focus on improving those living

I understand the feeling of controlling one’s body and I respect and agree with that, but abortion is still the murder of another human being.

In Minnesota, two bills were recently proposed, both restricting abortions. These bills are headed in the right direction, and it’s reassuring that a state as liberal as Minnesota is considering such a pro-life stance.

What is most sickening to me is that people have the audacity to say that murdering a baby is better than putting it through the foster system. Imagine being one of the millions of adopted individuals being told they would be better off dead than to go through the foster system.

The United States needs to focus more on preventing unplanned pregnancies, but it is horrifying to me that people would rather murder infants than petition for a better sexual education. These bills, although including flaws, are for the betterment of society.

Abortion laws Minnesota v Alabama

Reproductive rights violated by new laws Maddie Schutte maddieschutte@slpecho.com

O Minnesota Legal before viability, but proposed w ban passed Senate committee.

Alabama Total abortion ban passed State Legislature May 15.

Art Maggie Klaers Infographic Gabe Kaplan & Kate Schneider Source Twin Cities Pioneer Press

ur country has proven its lack of respect for women through the recent abortion ban laws happening around the country. These poorly researched laws have no place in our government.

Being pro-choice doesn’t have to mean you are pro-abortion. It means you let other women make that choice for themselves. It’s understandable to not support abortion, but there is a simple solution to that; don’t get one. You never know what situation another woman is in, so leave that decision up to her and her doctor.

No exceptions for rape and incest in these laws is unimaginably evil. A woman who never consented to have sex never consented to be pregnant either.

It’s scary to see even in a predominantly democratic state, like

Minnesota, there’s still support to create two restrictive bills limiting women’s healthcare.

The pro-life people seem to lack the motivation to fight for life when it doesn’t involve a woman’s body. If pro-lifers truly cared about protecting lives, they would fight for the crisis at our border, for universal healthcare and improving the foster care system in America.

Rather than trying to restrict abortion, states should be pushing to prevent unwanted pregnancies in the first place. According to Planned Parenthood, only 24 states and the District of Columbia require sex education in schools. If every state was required to provide comprehensive sex education, the number of unwanted pregnancies would significantly decrease.

It is horrifying to see the lack of thought, respect and education behind these abortion ban laws.

Whether you support abortion or not, it isn’t anyone’s place, especially not the government’s place, to control women’s bodies.

Isabel Kjaer isabelkjaer@slpecho.com

May 31

Time for school!

Oh... It’s Senior Skip Day.

Time to go crazy.

Insanity.

12

“

ENTERTAINMENT Echo Wednesday, June 5, 2019

Zac Efron playing Ted Bundy showed how romanticized he became.

Hope Cassman, senior

New Netflix movie sheds light on REVIEW

‘Extremely Wicked, Shockingly Evil and Vile’ shows alternative side of Bundy story Izzy Kanne izzykanne@slpecho.com Fair use from Brian Douglas/Netflix

METRO METRO AT A GLANCE David Bryant davidbryant@slpecho.com

Photos used with permission from Columbia Records, Sony Pictures, Capitol Records, Stone Arch Bridge Festival

T

he Netflix original “Extremely Wicked, Shockingly Evil and Vile” is everything the title claims and more.

Zac Efron’s creepy depiction of the serial killer Ted Bundy brings his charming but manipulative character back to life. The strong female lead of Liz Kendall played by Lily Collins is based off of Bundy’s long-term girlfriend, Elizabeth Kloepfer.

The movie begins with the ending, as Kendall visits Bundy in prison, but jumps back to the first time they met. Bundy’s charming and trustworthy persona made Kendall an easy target as a divorced single mother who falls for him.

The first half of the movie shows their twisted love story.

Kendall was wrapped up in Bundy’s facade when he appeared dedicated to her daughter. Witnessing the interactions between Bundy and Kendall’s daughter was the scariest part of the movie. Knowing the family welcomed a serial killer into their home is heartbreaking.

Collins’ role is powerful and she tells Kendall’s story and her struggle beautifully, displaying complex emotions to help

sympathize with her pain. As Bundy is accused of more crimes, Kendall begins to lose faith in Bundy’s claims of innocence.

Efron plays the side of Bundy that could exploit the public’s opinion. It’s known Bundy was charismatic and women loved him during his trials. Efron displays these qualities in his acting and even started to make me question his innocence although I knew the truth.

It was hard and uncomfortable to find myself suddenly unsure about such horrific crimes just because of a movie. Seeing women cheering for Bundy in the courtroom and on television puts into perspective his capabilities to deceive the public.

Showcasing Bundy in this light, I can’t help but wonder what it may have been like for the families of his victims to have seen these events happen in real time.

The goal of “Extremely Wicked, Shockingly Evil and Vile” was clearly to show Bundy’s ability to deceive the public with his charm and good looks, and successfully accomplished that goal. But in doing so, the film may cast a shadow of disrespect on the truth of it all.

June 9

June 13

June 14

June 14 - 16

British Indie Rock Vampire Weekend makes its return touring its fourth studio album “Father of the Bride” at the Armory. Tickets start at $60 at stubhub.com.

Men in Black makes its return to theaters with the fourth movie “Men In Black: International” featuring Chris Hemsworth and Liam Neeson.

Indie Pop band Bastille prepares to release its third 11-track album “Doom Days.” Presale is available on Apple Music including three singles.

Minneapolis amps up for the 25th annual Stone Arch Bridge Festival.

The event displays more than 200 artists and live music with free admission.