Echo
THEATER REHEARSES SHOW
PARKETTES RECRUTING
RENAISSANCE FAIR REVIEW
‘Big Fish’ highlights father and son relationships PAGE 4
Team hopes to boost numbers and self-confidence PAGE 8
Renfest offers endless entertainment options PAGE 12
Wednesday, September 27, 2017 Volume 91 Issue 2 St. Louis Park High School 6425 W. 33rd Street St. Louis Park, MN 55426
SLPECHO.COM
Photo Anna duSaire
Silent demonstration: Aliviah McClinton, Rosa Sigrunardottir, Malaika Bigirindavyi and Olivia Massie take a knee on the turf during the national anthem of the girls’ soccer game Sept. 25. This act of protest has been performed by more than 50 high schools across the country according to NowThis News.
IN THEIR OWN WORDS
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It makes me feel like a stronger human (to take a knee), and that I actually have a voice on the team. Malaika Bigirindavyi, senior It is my Constitutional right and I’m not going to stand for a country that chooses to oppress me.
Olivia Massie, senior
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I took a knee because I don’t stand for a country and a president that doesn’t want to protect black people.” Aliviah McClinton, sophomore Everyone should be equal, we’re all just people trying to get through life. Rosa Sigrunardottir, senior
Athletes take a stand by kneeling down Players inspired by professional athletes Mimi Fhima mimifhima@slpecho.com
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rustrated and teary-eyed after taking a knee during the national anthem at the girls’ soccer game Monday night, senior foreign exchange student and player Rosa Sigrunardottir said she felt this protest was necessary. “Coming to America from Iceland and seeing all of the kids here — it’s hard. Everyone should be equal. We’re all just people trying to get through life,” Sigrunardottir said. “Nobody should feel not welcome in this world. Somebody needs to step up and do something.” Seniors Malaika Bigirindavyi, Olivia Massie and Rosa Sigrunardottir and sophomore Aliviah McClinton knelt on the
home turf during the national anthem at the girls’ soccer game against Southwest High School Sept. 25. This occurred after inspiration from athletes in the NFL, WNBA and MLB who participated in some act of protest during the national anthem. According to Laura Bigirindavyi, parent of senior player Bigirindavyi, the players exemplified a national issue hitting home. “What is relevant in the injustice that is being protested in the NFL is also present in the high school on many levels,” Bigirindavyi said. According to senior goalie Olivia Massie, the action expressed a larger issue. “It’s not a little act,” Massie said. “If we all do this it shows something much bigger than ourselves.”
Although not aware the act would occur, varsity coach Benji Kent said he supports the players’ intentions to exercise their rights. “We haven’t talked about it as a team but I think our team and our school (are) supportive of students’ rights,” Kent said. Sophomore player Aliviah McClinton said she knelt in reaction to issues arising from Trump’s presidency and hopes her action inspires others. “I took a knee because I don’t stand for a country and a president that doesn’t want to protect black people,” McClinton said. “I hope that it sends (the message that) you don’t have to be afraid to take a stand. Don’t be afraid of the consequences.” Echo’s Anna duSaire and Alec Pittman also contributed to this story.
Student Council aims to support Mathews family, faculty Awareness drawn through ribbons, blood drive Mimi Fhima & Atticus Raasch mimifhima@slpecho.com atticusraasch@slpecho.com
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nvisioning a sea of blue and black ribbons in school, Student Council president and senior Sophie Yarosh hopes staff member Shawn Mathews will feel a wave of support following the passing of her husband, Wayzata police officer William Mathews. According to a Hennepin County police report Officer Mathews allegedly was killed in the line of duty by a distracted driver Sept. 8. “We’re going to (give out
ribbons) in honor of Shawn Mathews and her family, and Officer Mathews to show support,” Yarosh said. Yarosh said she hopes these events will create a welcoming environment for Mathews when she returns to school. “It’s important to show support as a community to help Shawn through this difficult time,” Yarosh said. Student Council adviser Sarah Lindenberg said the ribbons’ colors represent a fallen officer. “The black and blue ribbons are the colors (of the) fallen police officer flag and what that commemorates,” Lindenberg said. “The colors are part of that flag.” Senior Sabrina Garcia
said the ribbons will remind students to drive safely. “It’s important to wear the ribbons to honor Officer Mathews,” Garcia said. “It shows if you’re driving you should pay attention to the road.” Lindenberg said the Park community consistently supports those in need. “I think when someone is hurting in the community of St. Louis Park the students and staff are really good about trying to show support,” Lindenberg said. Lindenberg said a blood drive honoring the Mathews family will also occur. “We happened to have a blood drive scheduled and coming up, so we decided to
put that in memory of Officer Mathews,” Lindenberg said. Senior Brenden Donahue said the blood drive is an impactful way to commemorate Officer Mathews. “(The blood drive) is a great idea to (remember) Officer Mathews and honor his name,” Donahue said. Yarosh said it is important for students and community members to support each other. “I think (the commemoration) also helps a lot of teachers in the building who were close to that family and maybe knew Officer Mathews,” Yarosh said. “I think it’s important as a community that we show support in times of tragedy and sadness.”
Photo Illustration Emma Kempf
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NEWS
Echo Wednesday, September 27, 2017
WEB PREVIEW
Photo Used with permission from the National Association for College Admission Counseling
College Fair gives education options
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s college approaches for sophomore Will Matthews, he begins thinking about where he should start looking. According to Matthews, while a college fair at the Minneapolis Convention Center Sept. 27 may benefit some, but not all students may be able to attend. “(A college fair with) a wide variety (of colleges) would be more easier and more helpful, but because it’s not at school less people will go,” Matthews said.
Marta Hill martahill@slpecho.com
Photo Yonah Davis
Construction disrupts bus routes
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onstruction on Brunswick Ave and other St. Louis Park side streets causes school bus riders a bumpy ride on their way to school. This portion of the construction includes street rehabilitation and water main. The bus routes have gotten much worse ever since construction began this summer, according to The Agnus Corporation, which runs St. Louis Park Transportation.
Creston Halstead crestonhalstead@slpecho.com
Some people have family situations (and) maybe (the attendance policy) should be more flexible. Josie Briant, freshman
GLCs enforce senior open lunch policy Photo identification required to leave school during lunch Annabella Strathman annabellastrathman@slpecho.com
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ccording to assistant principal Charles Johnson-Nixon, the administrative team looks to make the practices with attendance-taking at the school more clear to staff and students this year, without making changes to the school’s policies. “We aren’t making any policy shifts. What we are trying to do is bring accountability to the policies and streamline it so that there’s clarity, (and) there’s transparency in it,” Johnson-Nixon said. “We tweaked the way attendance data is being pulled so that we really don’t let anyone slip through the cracks and hopefully we’ll get everyone so they can get the attention they need and be in school.” Sophomore Amaya Fokuo said attendance gives structure to students’ school day. “I think (attendance is) important because having some structure keeps people on the right track,” Fokuo said. “I think that’s important because not everybody has that kind of structure at home, so school can provide that for them.” According to Johnson-Nixon, the administration hopes to help students get the support they need by pulling individual data. “We will be looking at students who have significant absences to see what’s going on, making sure that they are getting supported and if they’re not in class we need to know why so we can help them.”
Photo Grace Farley
On time: Grade Level Coordinator (GLC) Joe Yager checks senior Ryan Klaers’ ID at the C doors Sept. 12 as he tries to leave the building for lunch. According to Johnson-Nixon, the administration enacted a photo ID requirement allowing only seniors to leave the building for lunch. “Technically only seniors are allowed to leave the building for lunch, so if a senior has their ID and they’re going out for lunch, all they really have to do is flash it,” Johnson-Nixon said. “If they don’t have that, especially for me, someone who’s new to the building, I don’t know all the seniors and so I’m going to look at someone and say ‘what grade are you in?’” Johnson-Nixon said. Sophomore Amira Ali said she was caught off guard for the first time by the GLC’s new enforcement. “I went to Super America and the GLC Rob (Griffin) was there basically waiting for me and I didn’t know that then. I didn’t want to eat school food, I don’t like it, so I sneaked out with my friend and the GLC was there,” Ali said. “I didn’t really get in trouble, he just told me to go back, and I didn’t get any food.” Junior Leensa Ahmed said she thinks juniors should also be allowed to leave school for lunch. “I went (to McDonald’s) before and I
never got caught,” Ahmed said. “I think that (the administration is) trying to set an example for the younger people who just started high school.” According to Johnson-Nixon, this year’s initiative to push attendance more regularly aims to provide accountability. “We are looking at attendance, wanting our teachers to be very serious and purposeful about taking attendance. When we do that, if something happens and a parent needs to get in contact with that student, if the attendance is taken, we know exactly where that student is going to be,” Johnson-Nixon said. Johnson-Nixon said requiring students to carry their IDs allows for the school to better ensure students’ safety, as well as instill a habit that will benefit students outside of a school environment. Da’ud said she thinks this policy unfairly limits lunch options for students. “I hate this policy because it’s unfair. It’s our lunch break, and we should be allowed to eat what we want,” Da’ud said. “Mcdonald’s isn’t even that far off, but still there are security guards or GLCs at every exit. Nothing serious could happen, there are people always outside.”
School cuts supply of student planners Student guidebook now on web Atticus Raasch atticusraasch@slpecho.com
Photo Brooklyn Donelson
Josh Broderson fills athletic trainer role
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ew athletic trainer Josh Broderson wraps junior Anna Long’s shoulder before practice. Broderson was employed after the school switched to Tria instead of Farview’s Institute of Athletic Medicine, where Jeremy Sheppard, last year’s athletic trainer, was employed.
Racquel Fhima racquelfhima@slpecho.com For more content go to slpecho.com
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truggling to stay organized, senior Annika Vignes said she wishes the school had given her a planner as they had in years past. Vignes said planners are necessary for students to keep up with all of their work. “I was angry because I really like planners because it helps me organize my days and keep track of all of my homework,” Vignes said. Assistant principal Charles Johnson-Nixon said cost issues kept the school from giving out the planners as they did in previous years. “Unfortunately (money) boils down to everything. It’s
Photo Illustration Grace Farley
expensive to make ( the student guidebooks),” JohnsonNixon said. “I actually like them, I have one myself, one of the old ones, but it’s a lot of money to make and print them,” he said. According to senior Ryan Klaers, many of the planners were not put to use when given out for free. “I don’t mind the school not giving out planners,” Klaers said. “I ended up forget-
ting to use them, and I feel like they go unused a lot.” Vignes said students may be negatively impacted without a way to document assignments. “I think for students who are like me and actually like organizing their stuff, (they) will be affected,” Vignes said. “They won’t be able to plan out as well and they’ll have to pay for their own planner.” Johnson-Nixon said although not printed, the new student handbook will be put
on the school website. “One thing I know is that we’re going digital,” JohnsonNixon said. “We are getting (the student handbook) online.” Klaers said having easy access to the student guidebook is beneficial. “I think it’s good, and I like that (the handbook) is online,” Klaers said. “If a student really has a question about it they can find it anywhere,” he said.
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I think for people to get the most out of school, it’s important for them to be who they are.
STUDENT LIFE
Echo Wednesday, September 27, 2017
Shayla Miller, sophomore
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The unspoken side of sexuality Disproving misconceptions about asexuality
Art Nietzsche Deuel
See if you can ‘ace’ this quiz
Hannah Leff and Nicole Sanford hannahleff@slpecho.com nicolesanford@slpecho.com
S Being asexual means you don’t experience ... A) Sexual arousal B) Romantic attraction C) Sexual attraction D) Love Asexuality is a choice. A) True B) False
Asexuality and celibacy are the same thing. A) True B) False Asexuals are incapable of having sex. A) True B) False
Which one of the individuals in the drawings could be asexual? A) One of the two heterosexuals. B) One of the homosexuals C) The single girl D) All of the above
Art Nietzsche Deuel
enior Zoë Weinmann said she first began questioning her sexuality her freshman year of high school. “I looked back at middle school and did a lot of research. I saw my friends getting into relationships (and) I noticed that wasn’t something I was into,” Weinmann said. “For a while I didn’t really know for sure (if I was asexual). After a lot of research and a lot of coming out videos I saw, I came to terms that that might be me as well,” Weinmann said. According to Gender Sexuality Alliance (GSA) adviser Kyle Sweeney, asexuality is the absence of sexual feelings toward others. “When you have an A- as a (prefix), it’s the absence of something. When you are talking about sexuality, you are talking about the attraction to someone sexually. So (being asexual) would be someone who doesn’t have that attraction to anyone,” Sweeney said. Sweeney said she feels there is a lack of education on asexuality with many people, and that’s the cause for some misconceptions. “I think that people don’t know what (asexuality) is. I think sometimes people don’t believe that it’s real or they don’t understand the thoughts or feelings or desires that someone would have that is asexual,” Sweeney said. According to health teacher Amy PieperBerchem, the struggle to define oneself is difficult for students in high school. “Everyone is so into labels these days, and I think that can hurt us. I think sexuality for kids at this age is hard,” Pieper-Berchem said. Sweeney said asexual people can still participate in any type of relationship they choose, contrary to what many people think. “People don’t understand that you can be asexual but still be in a relationship. You can be asexual and still have sex with someone,” Sweeney said. “People have all different types of relationships. I think people’s minds are kind of narrow about what sex and sexuality should look like.” Weinmann said the support she received when she came out last January encouraged her. “(Coming out) was never really something I thought I ever was going to do. I knew no matter what, if I came out or not, I would still be the same person,” Weinmann said. “When I came out back in January, I got a lot of support from my friends. That somehow gave me more confidence that I needed.” Pieper-Berchem said she hopes Park remains a safe place for students who may be struggling with their sexuality.
“I hope kids feel like they are comfortable (at Park), that they can be who they are. You can be different and totally accepted,” Pieper-Berchem said. “Hopefully (at) school, where (students) spend a lot of time, they can find some acceptance and some answers.” According to Weinmann, asexuality differs from person to person. “Asexuality by itself is an entire spectrum,” Weinmann said. “There are people on one side who don’t want anything to do with it and then there are some people who have sexual attraction and then there are some people in between.” According to Weinmann, increased education on asexuality would decrease common misconceptions. “Some people think (asexuality) doesn’t exist (and) some people think it’s the same thing as celibacy, which it’s not,” Weinmann said. “I feel like there should be more (information about asexuality), especially teaching people in high school about it. I Amy Pieper-Berchem, feel like it's rarely health teacher ever talked about. Not very many people know about it.” Sophomore Euan Lim said he feels GSA provides a space for students who may not feel comfortable with their sexuality. “GSA is a place for LGBT(Q+) students to meet each other and socialize and not feel scrutinized or outcasted by cisgender or straight people who might not always appreciate LGBT(Q+) people,” Lim said. Sweeney said anyone questioning or exploring their sexuality would find a positive environment in the support group. “(Park) also has (an) LGBTQ+ support group so people who are really questioning or trying to understand themselves or just want to be with people who are more supportive with who you are. I know I don’t really think about it that much,” Weinmann said. Lim said he urges students to be patient with figuring out their sexuality. “Take time to figure (your sexuality) out. It’s not going to be instantaneous; you’re not just going to wake up one day and be like ‘oh my gosh I’m gay, I’m straight, I’m asexual, I’m queer.’ It’s going to take a long time and feel free to experiment because that’s totally chill,” Lim said.
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I hope kids feel like they are comfortable (at Park), that they can be who they are.
Answers: C, B, B, B, D
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Echo Wednesday, September 27, 2017
For what it’s WORTH Natalia Caraballo nataliacaraballo@ slpecho.com
Hurricane hits home
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FEATURES
urricanes are common in Puerto Rico, but haven't had a devastating impact until now. When my family and I heard about the category five monster, Maria, heading toward the island we consider our home we were in shock. We worried about all of our family who live there and tried to remain in contact with them as much as we could, making sure they had all the supplies they would need and that they were safe. Throughout most of the week, my house was filled with extreme anxiety. I wasn’t able to focus at school because I could only think of my family in Puerto Rico. Wednesday Sept. 20 came, the day I was dreading. Watching the place where I grew up and where my family lived being destroyed by this storm was devastating. The aftermath was chaotic. Trying to get a hold of my family members seemed impossible. I didn’t get to hear from my step aunt until Friday night, and we still haven't heard from other family members. Not knowing the status of my family was stressful and terrifying. A few cell towers were torn down during the storm, which made comWhat’s the munication difficult all POINT? over the island. My Students grandma should be aware of global had to drive 30 events and minutes lend a helping just to get a signal hand on her phone. The entire island was out of power and would take months to recover. What I am still struggling with is seeing the amount of destruction on the island and it becoming almost unrecognizable from my childhood home. Seeing small businesses like my grandfather’s, that have fought and worked hard for their place, becoming destroyed is devastating. Seeing everything I knew in ruins greatly impacted my family and me. My hope for the future is for people to step up and help. By donating to organizations like ConPRmetidos and FEMA (Federal Emergency Management Agency), can help those restore what they have lost. Participating in local hurricane relief events or getting a group of students to help with hurricane relief aid would also be very helpful. I am thankful for my friends and family who have supported me through this difficult time and I’m hopeful that my family in Puerto Rico can have a successful recovery from the hurricane.
My cousin was in Florida (during the hurricane) and she had to stay and work at the hospital. Ella Thomas, sophomore
In the SPOTLIGHT
Junior experiences different lifestyle Owen Goddard returns home from living abroad Owen Goddard, junior
What was your initial reaction to going to Ghana? My initial reaction was that this is amazing and I was all for it. (My family) had been talking three years prior about looking into possibly living overseas. My parents did an overseas stay when I was born and they’ve always wanted to do it as a family. I think we were all very excited that (this trip) was going to happen. What was the hardest adjustment to living in Ghana? There are so many differences and adjustments, like adjusting to a new school or new people. My class size was 50 kids compared to whatever I had here. New cultures, new food, new house. Living in Ghana was almost like restarting my life as a 15-year old. It was crazy, and there were a lot of things that I had heard about that were going to be changes and adjustments. Did it make you want to continue to live abroad in the future, did you have any thoughts on wanting to do it again? I think living abroad is definitely something I would consider. I love traveling.
Used with written permission by Owen Goddard Cultural representation: Students from the IB school represent their home country by dressing in their native clothing.
In my lifetime I’ve been to 13 rural countries. But living overseas was a one time thing, once was kind of enough for me. Are you still connected with the people you met during your trip? There are a few kids that I’ve been snapchatting with on a weekly basis. There are great friends and mentors I'll continue skyping with. If you could have one takeaway from this experience what would it be? You really can’t describe what it’s like. You can share photos you can tell stories but you really can’t get the full understanding of it unless you've been in Ghana. Do you have one story that stuck with you? When we were in, this was probably October of last year, we went to the festival there. We were coming home from it and turns out my mom left her phone in the taxi so as soon as we realize it I get on my computer and phone and trace it. So now we’re taking a different taxi following this
taxi. So we get out and it’s me and my dad at this point my mom went back home and were literally walking through this village. And the locals there — they are in these metal box houses. (We) were knocking on doors asking “do you know this taxi driver?” Probably for an hour, (the tracer) says it’s 500 feet or whatever away. There’s like a dozen of these houses in that distance. We couldn’t find it that night, we gave up and it is probably midnight at this point. (We) wake up the next morning and my mom is devastated at this point. The next day she ends up finding (her phone). What was the Ghanaian lifestyle like? I really got an understanding of what the Ghanaian local life style was like when I was there. People are living in these boxes that are so small — a lug room house. That was a really an important part. It gave me a really good understanding of how fortunate I am and also you know how basic their lifestyles are. Annabella Strathman annabellastrathmanr@slpecho.com
Echo named as 2017 Pacemaker finalist Park’s newspaper selected along with 49 other publications Tenzin Gyaldatsang tenzingyaldatsang@slpecho.com
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enior managing editor Atticus Raasch said the Echo staff deserved to be named one of the National Scholastic Press Association (NSPA) 2017 Pacemaker finalists. “I think that everyone on staff really deserves it and it just shows how committed we all are to producing good, real and true content,” Raasch said. According to the National Scholastic Press Association, the Association named 49 student newspapers and magazines as finalists for the 2017 Pacemaker competition. Senior co-editor-in-chief Mimi Fhima said all of the staff’s hard work presents itself. “It feels really amazing to know that our work is being seen by other journalists and
being recognized as one of the top school newspapers in the country,” Fhima said. “It feels really good to know that all the hard work that we put into the paper is paying off.” Echo adviser Lori Keekley said an important part of Echo is the staff doesn’t produce the newspaper for any awards. Keekley said the newspaper has been a Pacemaker finalist six times. “The students don’t do it for the awards. Students work very hard to cover the student body and robustly and make sure that they get the best product possible,” Keekley. “So the students getting the awards are great but we still concentrate on what we do on a daily basis.” Fhima said despite having received the award on several occasions, each time the staff
Photo Maddie Lund
Working hard: Senior Echo managing editor Atticus Raasch works with senior content editors Sam Birnberg and Hanna Leff to improve their page designs. feels proud to be recognized. “I regard the award pretty highly,” Fhima said. “While we have gotten a few Pacemakers before every time we keep it in the same regard.” Senior managing editor Alec Pittman said he feels prideful for the newspaper’s staff as a whole when thinking on the Echo's achievement. “I feel tremendously proud of not only the efforts of our adviser Ms. Keekley, but of all editors and staffers,” Pittman said. “I have had on incred-
ible experience on Echo” According to the NSPA, this competition recognized only print newspapers. The Echo was also a finalist in the April Online Pacemaker competition. Senior co-editor-in-chief Annabella Strathman said getting recognized with the award is a motivator for the staff. "Although we don’t do it for the awards, knowing that our hard work is being acknowledged feels great,” Strathman said.
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I don’t get graded on (going to a theater performance), and it’s just a waste of time.
FEATURES
Echo Wednesday, September 27, 2017
Will Halverson, junior
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‘Big Fish’ to dive in plot depth Photo Malaika Bigirindavyi
Preparation: Theater members practice a dance routine for the upcoming musical "Big Fish," Sept. 20. The 'Big Fish' performances will be Nov. 10-12 and 17-19 in the Auditorium.
Cast prepares for mystical roles Nicole Sanford nicolesanford@slpecho.com
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ccording to director Jodi Hatzenbeller, this year’s fall musical deviates from previous shows with its enchanting storyline and scenery. “(The fall musical is) a story of epic tales and father and son relationships,” Hatzenbeller said. “It’s a contemporary piece that was just touching on different themes than what we’ve done in the years past.” Sophomore Sam Sietsema, cast as Carl the Giant, said shifting the focus from reality to fantasy may prove difficult. “Definitely getting the set and the people into the mindset of being in a fantasy show (will be a challenge),” Sietsema said. Hatzenbeller said layers of storytelling within the musi-
cal deepens the plot. “All theater is storytelling at its heart, but this one is upping the ante because we have to create stories within stories and sort of blend the line between reality and fantasy,” Hatzenbeller said. According to Hatzenbeller, about 50 students auditioned for the show, while only 29 were cast. “We had a large group of auditionees and they were really strong. Unfortunately we only have room for so many people in the cast,” Hatzenbeller said. Senior Katie Steiner said she was cast as a lead in the show and looks forward to taking on a larger role for the first time. “This is my first big role, so personally I’m nervous about how I’ll pull it off, but I have a lot of confidence in everybody in theater and I know it will come together in the end,” Steiner said. Sophomore Anna Long said she intends on attending the show when performances begin. “It will probably be cool to see how they do (the show)
because it’s got the fantasy aspect and everything,” Long said. “I have a lot of friends (in the show), so I’d probably go to see them.” According to Hatzenbeller, challenges include tackling the show’s whimsical settings and exotic characters. “It’s similar (to other shows we’ve done) because it’s a big musical, lots of singing and dancing, but in this one it’s also very fantastical,” Hatzenbeller said. “It’s very magical because it’s the tall tales that a father is telling his son, so there are witches and giants and assassins and all these larger than life characters that we have to bring to the stage.” Steiner said she looks forward to being involved in the show. “I’m just so excited to watch it all come together,” Steiner said. “I think the cast is really great, (Hatzenbeller) always does a great job and it’s just such a fun musical.” According to Hatzenbeller, “Big Fish” performances will be 7 p.m. Nov. 10-11 and 17-18 and 2 p.m. Nov. 12 and 19 in the Auditorium.
Orchestra travels to Hawaii
Practice makes perfect: Juniors Lily Johnson and Claire Kaiserman practice cello during orchestra class. They are getting ready for their upcoming Halloween concert, which will be Oct. 26.
Trip changed when Italy prices rose Abby Intveld abbyintveld@slpecho.com
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hen senior Samyu Yenamandra found out her final orchestra trip wouldn’t take place in Italy as previously planned, she remembers feeling disappointed. “I was really sad because Italy is my dream vacation spot, and I was really looking forward to going there,” Yenamandra said. According to orchestra teacher Miriam Edgar, the orchestra was planning on traveling to Italy before ticket costs rose. “Originally we were going to go to Italy, but our dates fell over Holy Week and that combined with plane ticket costs skyrocketing made our price go from $3,700 per student to $5,000,” Edgar said. This spike in ticket cost compelled Edgar to change trips, according to band director Steven Schmitz. “(Edgar) told me during the first week of school how the price of Italy had gotten so high and how it wasn’t equitable to our students who don’t have as much money and she just couldn’t justify it anymore,” Schmitz said. Junior Sydney Hosfield said she believes the lower cost of the Hawaii trip will allow more students to travel. “The trip is half the cost of what it was suppose to be, so while people may not have been able to go before, they now can,” Hosfield said. While the orchestra will be traveling with the band, the
two groups will not be doing everything together, according to Edgar. “We will be doing some activities at museums or sight seeing together, but as of now we don’t even know if we’re staying in the same hotel or taking the same flight,” Edgar said. Edgar said that her students have had mixed reactions to the recent changes. “We do have some students who were very sad about not going to Italy and have decided not to go to Hawaii,” Edgar said, “But overall, students have been very flexible with the changes and supportive of the decision.” According to Edgar, many details about the trip have yet to be confirmed. As of now, the trip will take place from March 22 to March 28, which falls on spring break.
Photo Leila Raymond
Comparing Trips
Infographic Katie Hardie and Abby Intveld Source Miriam Edgar
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IN-DEPTH
Echo Wednesday, September 27, 2017
There’s lots of things that can distract you and that really confusing, so it’s good to pay attention. Victoria Judson, senior
Losing focus at the wh Distracted driving brought home Atticus Raasch & Alex Balfour atticusraasch@slpecho.com alexbalfour@slpecho.com
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yes set on the road, senior Katie Fredrickson can’t see why students would choose to focus on their phones while driving. “Everyone goes on their phone. I’m in the car with people all the time and they’re on their phones while driving. I don’t want anyone that I care about to not come home,” Fredrickson said. According to the Hennepin County police report Officer William Mathews, a Wayzata police officer, was struck and killed by a distracted driver Sept. 8, while clearing debris from U.S. Highway 12. Officer Mathews was reported to have been walking back to his car when a Nissan Murano hit him while traveling 55 to 65 miles per hour. The driver, Beth Freeman, allegedly was using her phone moments before the accident. Officer Mathews was married to Shawn Mathews, assistant athletic director and had a 7-year-old son, Wyatt. Following the death of Officer Mathews, Fredrickson said she created a petition to aid in passing a piece of legislature to further the legal punishment for distracted driving.
What is distracted driving
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AA driving instructor Mike Torkelson said distracted driving stems obsessions with phones. “The (distracted driving) problem comes with the fact that so many people are constantly on our phones,” Torkelson said. “We have them with us and it can get to the point where it just becomes an extension of ourselves.” According to police liaison Pam Gronski, personal interactions and phone use are the leading causes of teen car accidents. “The most common forms of distraction leading up to a crash by a teen driver are actually interacting with other people in the car,” Gronski said. “That is the most, quickly followed by cell phones.” Gronski said students are in such a hurry that they often neglect personal safety.
“A lot of kids point A to point practice,’ ‘I have to my job,’; they they’re going,” G ers) don’t tend to they might be ea or texting their f or ‘I’m on my wa much more activ
Connectio
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redrickson sa ing. “(The bill) puts e said. “It also add Senior Kate B while driving, esp “I think (the p your mind that y your phone is a w tempted, I go bac Junior Bryan “Pretty much eve and changing the According to while on the road “I know that new technologica son said.
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If they’re so addicted to their phones just put it in the back seat.
IN-DEPTH
Echo Wednesday, September 27, 2017
Darjon Johnson, sophomore
7
heel
s are in a rush from B, ‘I have to get to e to dance,’ ‘I have to get y have to get to wherever Gronski said. “(Teenago be planners as much so ating while they’re driving friends ‘I’m running late’ ay.’ I just think that they’re lives are so ve and again they are young and carefree.”
on to Park
aid the petition works to further a bill designed to limit distracted driv-
extreme restrictions on using your cell phone while driving,” Fredrickson ds fines and basically gives more punishment for using your phone while driving.” Brinkman said the petition reminds her of the reason behind staying off her phone pecially when temptations are high. petition is) a really good idea. I think it is really easy to just have it in the back of you’re not supposed to be on your phone, but to go out of your way to not be on whole new step,” Brinkman said. “I committed myself to that (petition). If I’m ever ck to that signature.” Huynh said he notices students on their phones on a daily basis. ery day I go home from school there are people driving around in the parking lot eir music,” Huynh said. “I mean they aren’t going very fast but they do it. Torkelson, the younger generation of drivers is more susceptible to distractions d. statistically the younger generations are far more comfortable in using all of these al innovations and everything that comes along with having a cell phone,” Torkel-
Holding each other accountable
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orkelson said all passengers in a car should share the responsibility to create a safe driving environment. “One of the first things is just to hold each other accountable. If you are riding in a car and the driver is on their phone, don’t be afraid to say something about it. I think that is really important,” Torkelson said. “Sometimes the passenger can help out with navigating or opening up the GPS.” Torkelson said he believes this generation can make a large impact in bringing awareness to distracted driving. “I can remember in the eighties there was a huge understanding about the damage of drunk driving,” Torkelson said. “I am hoping this generation right now can do the same thing with using the phone while driving. This generation I know can do it.”
Students can sign the petition by searching ‘initate hands free driving in Minnesota’ on change.org. As of Sept. 25 the petition has 2,531 signatures. Source Katie Fredrickson
6/10
teenage crashes are because of distracted drivin g nationally.
90 80 70
drivers Percentage of
Distracted drivin g leads to around
5,000
60 50 40 30 20 10 0
deaths a year nationally.
16-18
Infographic Isabe
Source AAA
Percent of indiv iduals using phones while d riving
l Leviton
19-24
40-59
Ages of dri
vers
60-74
75+
Infographic Hann a Schechter Source AAA
Photo Illustration Hanna Schechter
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SPORTS
Echo Wednesday, September 27, 2017
I enjoy watching the parkettes. They look like they have a lot of fun out there.” Calista Johnson, sophomore
Out of the PARK
Bust a move: The Parkettes perform a dance routine at the second homecoming pepfest. They also helped the student section cheer on Park at the Homecoming football game Sept. 15.
William Phelan williamphelan@ slpecho.com
Coaching grows leadership
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s I stepped out of my mom’s minivan, I immediately wondered what I was getting myself into. There were at least 50 boys, all bigger than me, running with their shirts off. Sure, I had played soccer before, but never like this. Walking onto the field, I immediately heard the loudest, most intimidating voice my ears had ever been exposed to. As I looked up in fright, my stomach dropped; this was the goalkeeper coach that I was supposed to spend the season training with. However, as the season went on, I began to get used to his ‘tough love’ style of coaching. His voice helped What’s the me to truly internalize POINT? his criticisms and make sure to correct them. I did all I could to keep his earth-shaking voice quiet, and it truly worked. I have worked with numerous goalkeeper coaches with many philosophies about the position, but none were able to shape me as an athlete like he was. By my junior year, I had grown to love his intense style of coaching and built a close bond with him that stretched past on the field activities, and gave me valuable insight about life after high school and taught me a lot about what it means to be mentally tough. Then one day last fall, he approached me after our last practice before Sections play. His suddenly soft tone indicated that something was wrong. He told me this had to be his last year of coaching, and my heart dropped. What would soccer be like without this coach, this mentor, this friend, in my corner? I understood that it was the best thing for his health, but at the same time I didn’t understand how he could leave the program. After a long period of disappointment, I finally came to terms with his decision this summer. Though the St. Louis Park boys’ soccer program will not be the same without him, his absence gives me the opportunity to step into a greater leadership role in the team. Without a goalkeeper coach, I am tasked with running drills and giving pointers to the other goalies. I am responsible for passing the great knowledge of the position I gained from this legendary coach on to the next generation of Park goalkeepers.
Always keep an open mind
Parkette program revived Photo Ruby Stillman
Co-directors aim to expand danceline Makagbe Kuyateh & Dani Orloff makagbekutayeh@slpecho.com daniorloff@slpecho.com
W
hen junior Parkette Mariah Wilson first performed at the Pepfest, she felt anxious, however she gained confidence throughout the dance. “At first I was a little nervous (to perform at the Pepfest), then the crowds started to cheer us on and amp us up,” Wilson said. “It made us feel more confident and brought a positive aspect to us and as a school as a whole.” Wilson said she joined the revived Parkettes Danceline to
improve as a dancer. “I decided to join the Parkettes because I enjoy dancing,” Wilson said. Former Parkette and codirector Marcia Brucciani said she believes those at Park who want to should get the chance to be a part of a dance team. “Young women today deserve the opportunities that we had,” Brucciani said. “Our goal is to create those experiences for young women at St. Louis Park High School today.” Wilson said she hopes the Parkettes bond and looks forward to meeting new members. “My goal as a group is to keep us all together and be able to teach new upcoming Parkettes new, modern dances,” Wilson said. Brucciani said she was
moved to revive the Parkettes because of the impact the program had on her life. “The Parkettes were a sisterhood that was built on discipline and integrity and responsibility and loyalty and trust,” Brucciani said. “We didn’t know it at the time, but the friendships we formed in high school being a Parkette have lasted a lifetime.” Former Parkette co-director Faith Schway said the team consists of seven dancers. “(They are) a very diverse group, which is really cool. I think this is really wonderful because they are learning about each other’s backgrounds,” Schway said. Schway said she plans to grow the program. “When we auditioned there were 300 people trying out for
Parkettes,” Schway said. “This is our inaugural girls so they were allowed in, but this fall people will have to audition just like we did.” Wilson said she recommends those interested in the program to take action. “I would encourage people to join the Parkettes because it’s a good opportunity to try something new,” Wilson said. According to Schway, the dance team members continue to improve. “Marcia and I are witnessing some wonderful changes. People are coming out of their shell. Now they are a very cohesive group,” Schway said. “Coming from the background of St. Louis Park, I want to give back to the community and create some community spirit.
Senior takes on leadership role Cross country votes new captain Esther Gendler esthergendler@slpecho.com
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fter senior Collin Perkins came up short of votes for becoming a cross country captain last year, he was surprised to find out he was going to become a captain anyways. “Unfortunately, I didn’t receive enough votes. But later on our head coach, Chris Nordstrom, felt that the boys’ team did not have enough energy. So, he got all the coaches and captains together to vote on who should become the fourth boys captain,” Perkins said. Nordstrom said he believed Collin deserved a leadership role on the team. “Collin does everything a coach could ask for. He works hard, is very positive and has a unique ability to reach and connect with all the kids on the team,” Nordstrom said. Perkins said he is excited to be named a captain and is enjoying his position. “My duties are to lead stretching, make sure my teammates are holding up okay during a long run,” Perkins said. “I also
Photo Sophie Olmen
Keeping Pace: Senior Collin Perkins leads warmups at the start of cross country practice on Sept. 15. Perkins was selected as captain at the beginning of the season. make sure that my teammates get to the start line on time, on race day. I’ve had so much fun connecting with the team in a new way.” Nordstrom said he looks for certain qualities in a captain, and this is the first time they have chosen a new captain during the season in five years. “This is my first season as head coach, fifth (year) in total. We have not done this since I’ve been here,” Nordstrom said. “A captain is someone who can lead by
example and be a positive person for the other athletes to go to when a coach isn’t available or they feel more comfortable talking to a peer.” Perkins said his goals for the team to run together and place higher in meets. “The team goals I have for the team are to have us run together in packs during races. This will allow us to place better at our meets,” Perkins said. Perkins said he hopes to place well and make sure the team is having fun.
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(After the last Hopkins match) we got mad that they beat us because we were so close.”
SPORTS
Echo Wednesday, September 27, 2017
Susanna Hu, junior
Girls’ tennis prepares for Hopkins Mental strength will be key to success Eli Curran-Moore & Anna duSaire elicurran-moore@slpecho.com annadusaire@slpecho.com
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s sophomore Kenna Jacobson walks to a court to begin warming up for practice, she said she is anxious but excited for the match against Hopkins. “(Hopkins is) very good. I’m nervous, but it is going to go well I think,” Jacobson said. “This season has been really good. We are currently 8-2, so it’s been a really good season.” According to senior captain Hanna Schechter, the team has been practicing various skills in anticipation for the match against Hopkins. “We’ve been playing a lot of matches and kind of getting into the mindset. We’ve been practicing a lot of deep balls, and I know a lot of doubles teams have really practiced being offensive at the net, which will really help us win matches against Hopkins,” Schechter said. Jacobson said aside from being consistent in game play, the team hopes to have a positive mentality, as well as discipline with their play when matching up against Hopkins and in future matches. “(We need to focus on) consistency and not just giving the other team free points, and like making mistakes,” Jacobson said. “Not just like having the mentality going into it that we’re going to lose, (and) always knowing that we have a shot at winning.”
Photo Josh Halper
Junior varsity coach Christine Tvrdik said she hopes the team approaches the match with a competitive attitude. “The main thing is going into every match with the mindset that we want to win, whether it’s a team that we know we should win easily or a team we know is going to be challenging, like Hopkins,” Tvrdik said. According to varsity head coach David Breitenbucher, a player’s mental game is critical to their success in the sport. “Tennis is one of the most frustrating sports mentally. We talk about it a lot, you have to be on your game, you have to be confident,” Breitenbucher said. “If you’re not confident, you’re not hitting your strokes, you have to have the mentality that you got to back off and go in the middle of the court more. So we talk about that all the time, strategy and staying positive.” Schechter said the team is hoping for confidence and a self-assured mindset during the match. “We all are practicing calming down before every point, being confident. A lot of times when we miss it’s because we
Serving a laugh: Senior Lillie Albright and sophomore Kenna Jacobson share a laugh during their match against Cooper Sept. 19. The orioles defeated the hawks 7-0.
Keys to beating Hopkins Positivity and confidence Minimize unforced errors Competitive mentality Infographic Jacob Stillman Source Coach Breitenbucher, Coach Tvrdik, Kenna Jacobson
weren’t confident enough in our strokes and so we’re practicing playing the best we can,” Schechter said. Breitenbucher said everyone has been practicing performance under pressure. “We’ve done serving where if they miss a serve, the whole team has to run. So I am trying to put more pressure on them, in front of everybody,” Breitenbucher said. “So just little things like that, to have them get more pressure can help us mentally and in the game, I don’t know if it will, but little things.” The match will take place 4 p.m. Sept. 27 at Hopkins High School.
Orioles to face cross town rival Benilde
Meet the ATHLETE
Who Rosa Rut Sigrunardottir Grade Senior Sport Soccer When did you start playing? I started playing soccer when I was seven-years old and two years ago I took a break. When I came here, I thought it would be a great opportunity to (start playing again). How is soccer in Iceland different than soccer in the U.S.? We don’t have high school soccer (in Iceland), we just practice in clubs. It’s a lot different here because we’re all in the same school. I know the girls on my team a lot better than the girls back in Iceland that I’ve played with for two to three years. What position/s do you play? I play forward, I could do midfielder or goalie but it’s not my favorite. How has it been playing for Park? It’s been awesome. We’ve had a couple of hard games, but it just makes us a better team. It’s been good to (make) friends and it’s given me a lot of opportunities. Do you participate in any other sports or activities? I want to try basketball and try theater. How long are you going to be in the U.S.? I am an exchange student, but no one went to Iceland, so I’m just here living with my host family
Football team prepares for Red Knights
Do you feel as if you’ve improved while playing at Park? Definitely, I feel like I’m growing as a player. How we play the game, the girls know more of the strategy and working hard to get better.
Sam Birnberg & Adam Johnson sambirnberg@slpecho.com adamjohnson@slpecho.com
F
ollowing a 28-20 win over the Richfield Spartans, Park football prepares this week for Thursday’s home game against rival, Benilde-St. Margaret’s. The game will be played early because of Yom Kippur. According to senior defensive back and kicker, Skyler Rudelius-Palmer, last week’s win provided team with confidence as they prepare for kickoff against BSM. “Even though we might have a few mistakes that give up big yards, if we cut those down we are going to be a really elite defense and an elite offense” Coach Ben Wolfe said the team, currently 2-2, is ready to face the Red Knights despite the shortened week of practice. “We feel prepared. It is a team we have faced for a lot of years. They are a good team and we are a good team too,” Wolfe said. According to Rudelius-Palmer in
9
Photo Grace Farley
Jokes: Senior captian Jonny Sorenson surveys the field to throw to a receiver. Park lost 30-0 to The Academy of Holy Angels Sept. 15. preparation for the this week’s game, the team focused on preparing throughout practice because of the earlier game. “We’ve been putting in a lot of hard work,” Rudelius-Palmer said. Wolfe said that although BSM may be seen as a rival, the team sees the game as a chance to add another tally to the win column. “We don’t necessarily look at it as added pressure, more so as an opportunity to beat a good team at home in the middle of the season,” Wolfe said. Rudelius-Palmer said having strong defense will be a crucial component of stopping the Red Knight’s offense.
“(We cannot allow any) blown coverage(s), for the defensive backs. We have a tendency to play really well, and then we have a few plays where we have blown coverage and let up a big play,” Rudelius-Palmer said. Wolfe said although the team is approaching the matchup like any other game, it is a game they have had circled on their calendars since the schedule was released. “It’s a game we have been looking at for a long time, and we have been preparing for going into this season,” Wolfe said. Park plays Benilde at 7 p.m. Sept. 28 at home.
What do you hope you’ll learn from this experience? I hope I’ll learn to be quicker and to know how other players play. What’s the difference between living in the United States rather than Iceland? People here are more open, it is easy to find friends or find someone who helps you out. I love living here and if I could choose now, I would like to live here for longer time than one year.
Amaia Barajas amaiabarajas@slpecho.com
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10 OPINIONS
Echo Wednesday, September 27, 2017
Echo
Editors-in-chief: Mimi Fhima & Annabella Strathman Managing editors: Anna duSaire, Alec Pittman, Dani Orloff & Atticus Raasch
Copy editors: Alex Balfour, Elise Riley, Nicole Sanford & Sophie Yarosh Design editors: Devin Raynor & Sam St. Clair Photo editors: Caroline Green, Grace Farley & Emma Kempf Assistant photo editor: Breanna Thompson News editor: Yonit Krebs & Sumaya Mohammed Features editor: Amaia Barajas & Maddie Lund In-Depth editors: Isabel Leviton & Hanna Schechter Sports editor: Sam Birnberg & Jacob Stillman Opinions editor: Hannah Leff & Lukas Levin Entertainment editor: Isaac Wert Diversity editor: Makagbe Kuyateh Web design editor: Josh Halper & Adam Johnson Profiles: Ndunzi Kunsunga Staff: Tjessa Arradondo, Maximillian Bechtold, Beck Bergland, Malaika Bigirindavyi, Chloe Blodgett, Daebreona Byrd, Natalia Caraballo, Culver Carden, Jenna Cook, Eli Curran-Moore, Nietzsche Deuel, Maia Doherty, Brooklyn Donelson, Racquel Fhima, Esther Gendler, Tenzin Gyaldatsang, Katie Hardie, Calvin Hatcher, Marta Hill, Abigail Intveld, Avia Kaner-Roth, Isabel Kjaer, Samantha Klepfer, Eleanor Kline-Olson, Alexis Machoka, Kimon Malone, Kahiro Lara Martinez, Stuart Monicatti, Evelyn Nelson, Sophie Olmen, William Phelan, Carissa Prestholt, KJ Preston Pepperell, Leila Raymond, Hadeal Rizeq, D’aviyan Robinson, Mariana Sanchez Zapata, Ruby Stillman, Jaye Townsend, Amber Tran, Isaac Wahl, Hayley Westwood & Emma Yarger
Business manager: Yonah Davis Principal: Scott Meyers Printer: ECM Inc. Adviser: Lori Keekley
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 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; 2013 CSPA Gold Crown; 2015 CSPA Hybrid Gold Crown; 2012, 2014, 2016 CSPA Silver Crown; JEM All-State.
(The rule changes) make the (orchestra) more formal. In the past, we’ve had problems with the (dress code). Emmett Foner, junior
Our Perspective
Distracted driving must be addressed, ended
T
he issue of distracted driving resides strongly within our community, with the tragic loss of Officer William Mathews Sept. 8. The editorial board believes now is time to act on safer driving. A current petition brought forth by senior Katie Fredrickson asking to initiate a “hands-free” law has already gained ground, earning 2,500 signatures within a span of two weeks. Students should sign the petition and look to drive more safely. People behind the wheel must be proactive in preparing for a safe trip while in the vehicle. Drivers should take the time to send messages and set-up music before getting in the car, not while driving. Drivers who struggle with device distractions should download newer updates and apps that disable devices while in a car. The most recent IOS update for the iPhone has a feature for safer driving the disables notifications while behind the wheel. The current Minnesota law in place states “it is illegal for drivers under age 18 to use a cell phone, whether hand-held or hands-free — except to call 911 in an emergency.” Students must realize driving comes as a privilege and responsibility, not a given
Illustration Nietzsche Deuel
It can wait: There are a lot distractions for teen drivers. Students need to focus on driving safely and responsibly for themselves and others. right. While operating any vehicle on the road, students are responsible not only for themselves and their passengers, but every other vehicle on the road. Passengers must also hold their drivers accountable. Speaking up and reminding drivers to put their devices away while driving will help break poor habits of distracted driving. Students can take initiative by signing petitions for additional legislature or talking with local officials on how to remain a safe and attentive driver. Whether it be leaving a device at home, turning it off in the car or putting it on do not disturb, students can take these small steps to help end distracted driving and possibly save a life. Put down the device, focus on the road and don’t be distracted by passengers.
Why shouldn’t you drive distracted? “I think it increases your chance of being killed and hurting the people around you.” Adna Mohamud, junior “You are putting yourself in danger but you (have) to think about other people and you can’t be reckless. Dashaun Emerson, senior “You shouldn’t because you are putting others at risk while putting yourself at risk as well.” Ivy Jones, sophomore
Controversial changes affect orchestra class Rule modifications impact student participation Evelyn Nelson evelynnelson@slpecho.com
O
rchestra class for me has always felt inviting and relieving. However, walking into the classroom at the start of this school year felt the exact opposite. The new orchestra changes have dulled the spark I once felt toward the class. The high school orchestra program is most known for building character, knowledge and communities. For many, orchestra is a program you can stick with for long periods of time, with several students on their eighth, ninth and 10th years of playing. However, with the new syllabus and overall changes in orchestra classes, students including myself are having second thoughts on sticking with the program. At the start of the 2017-
Concert dress code will now require full length dresses, skirts and pants
•
Excused absences can be made up by coming before or after school for an hour to make up missed work
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Students who receive unexcused tardies will lose 2 out of 5 daily participation points
Infographic Evelyn Nelson Source Orchestra syllabus
2018 school year, Park’s orchestra director Miriam Edgar established several new class changes from the previous years in hopes to provide a better classroom environment and raise the program to its highest level. However, these new changes are not always benefitting students’ enjoyment and participation of the class. This year, Edgar said full length dresses or skirts are
To Parkettes: At least there will be some people singing the school song. Art Devin Raynor
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required and are necessary because it creates a more professional and less revealing orchestra environment. This dress code adds difficulty for students who may not own a full length dress or skirt. Plus cellists need extra leg room to play their instrument. The full length dresses and skirts limit the space between cellists’ legs that they need in order to perform.
To attendance: Stop blocking the senior slide.
The syllabus also states if you are absent in class you will require to come in before or after school for 45 minutes up to an hour. Edgar said she implemented this rule to limit student absences, which it has. However, this becomes a problem when students have other important duties besides orchestra class. I have had transportation issues when getting to or leaving school. This new concept does not help me or other students who are facing the same problem. Some students are considering dropping the program entirely. These new changes influenced my decision to quit orchestra because of the stress they created. It is unfortunate how the program has changed from a relaxing and enjoyable class, to the opposite. Edgar said she understands students are unhappy about the changes, but feels to better the orchestra ensemble the rules had to be set in place in hopes to see positive results.
To Renaissance: Finally, some Red Knights I like.
M.K., A.P., A.R.
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I personally would never join Antifa, but I understand its need to exist.
OPINIONS
Echo Wednesday, September 27, 2017
Elliot Schochet, senior
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POINT COUNTERPOINT
Anti-fascist group acts through force Antifa, short for anti-fascists, is a group of militant left, or alt-left, people who don’t conform to Democratic Party values. They have been associated with radical, violent tactics to portray their progressive views.
Anarchist group’s actions prove divisive
Alt-left group protests for public well-being Antifa fights back against alt-right violence Emma Yarger emmayarger@slpecho.com
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ntifa is a reaction to any white supremacist group that is re-emerging under the Trump presidency. While violence is a negative aspect of their group, it can’t compare to damage done by alt-right terrorist organizations. Antifa is primarily fighting against alt-right groups such as the Ku Klux Klan (KKK). The KKK has attacked and killed people of color and members of the LGBTQ+ community. Antifa wishes to protect all minorities. President Trump claims left and right groups can be blamed for the death and injuries in Charlottesville and has yet to condemn the white supremacists involved. “I think there is blame on both sides,” said President Trump after the Charlottesville attack. President Trump has endorsed violence in the past. At one of his
campaign rallies, President Trump urged his supporters to hit Democrats protesting the rally. “If you see somebody getting ready to throw a tomato, knock the crap out of them,” President Trump said. Based on this quote, the leader of this country seemingly condones violence to his alt-right supporters. Although I don’t condone violence, it can be expected that organizations like Antifa will reciprocate with violence. Although Antifa’s goal is to prevent a racist, reactionary government, they are not willing to use violence to the same extent as alt-right groups. According to the Anti-Defamation League, 74 percent of politically motivated murders were committed by the alt-right between 2007 and 2016. Emboldened right-wing groups should be opposed by our government. However this is not happening under Trump’s presidency, therefore Antifa is powerfully fighting back against hate.
What is Antifa?
Antifa ultimately does more harm than good William Phelan williamphelan@slpecho.com
How did it start? Exact origins are unknown but can be traced back to Germany and the United Kingdom. What do they do? In the United States, members protest at rightwing events, like President Trump’s inauguration. Why are they controversial? They have been known to cause property damage during protests. Infographic Hannah Leff Source CNN
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group of right of center activists organized a peaceful “Say No to Marxism in America” demonstration in Berkeley, California on Aug. 27. However, this event was quickly infiltrated by a group of more than 100 Antifa members before it could officially start. Chaos ensued resulting in five seriously injured and 13 arrests of Antifa members. However, even more terrible than Antifa’s physical attacks is the impact they have on the political climate in the United States. By violently assaulting groups who choose to assemble and speak out for conservative causes, Antifa is directly infringing on their First Amendment rights of speech and assembly and further increasing the divide between right and left. Although the liberal media often publicizes violent alt-
right demonstrations across the country, it refuses to acknowledge similar activity on their end of the political spectrum. Groups such as Antifa take an extremely hypocritical approach to combatting the issue of the radical alt-right. They combat the supposedly outrageous views of those right of center by actively practicing violent terrorism against them during right-wing gatherings. By refusing to recognize the views of those right of center and using force to silence their voices, the anarchist group only increases the political polarization in the nation and paints the liberal cause as one willing to turn to savage means when met with disagreement. What’s more, their violence actively drives Americans away from the cause that they are supposedly fighting for; if someone is truly passionate about the liberal cause and the stabilization of American politics, condemning Antifa is in their best interest.
Ending DACA would undermine American values Immigration ‘fix’ would only harm the United States Eli Curran-Moore elicurranmoore@slpecho.com
T
he Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) was created by President Obama on June 15, 2012 to provide children of undocumented immigrants brought to the United States with a renewable, two-year period of deferred action from deportation and eligibility for a work permit. To rescind DACA now without temporary legislative measures to help aliens already in the DACA program would be detrimental to the U.S. economy and come off as exceptionally callous, reflecting poorly on the American spirit. Around 800,000 unauthorized immigrants have been protected under DACA since its implementation. Those same protections should be kept. Dreamers who have spent their entire adult lives in the United States should not be uprooted, eligible for deportation or lose current protections. Because DACA recipients must either be
PARK TRAIL
DACA recipient criteria • • •
Must have arrived in the United States before age 16. Must have lived in the United States since June 15, 2007. Cannot be older than age 30 when program began
employed or in school with no criminal record, DACA members are prime examples of the American citizen. 95 percent are currently employed, in school or in the military, according to the National Immigration Law Center. The idea that DACA workers are undermining the U.S. citizen workforce is not supported with sufficient evidence. DACA beneficiaries will also contribute $460.3 billion to the U.S. gross domestic product during the next decade, according to the Center for American Progress — economic growth lost if DACA is to be eliminated. As established integral members of the United States, such an act is not only illogical, but comes
• • •
Must be in school, working, or in military, etc. Pay $495 fee. No criminal record.
Infographic Eli Curran-Moore Source U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services
off as an unnecessarily cruel move, as shown by the fact that eight out of 10 American voters support DACA, according to a Politco survey, as do a majority of President Trump supporters, according to a Morning Consult survey. Children brought here by their parents should get a chance to earn their citizenship and create a prosperous life for themselves. That’s the very foundation of the American dream. Trump’s bipartisan meetings are a step in the right direction, but concrete legislation to protect DACA recipients has yet to be passed. DACA recipients are for all intents and purposes Americans and they should be treated as such.
Nietzsche Deuel nietzschedeuel@slpecho.com
Want to hear a story about an old king and queen?
Sure.
Well this king and queen wanted a son, for several years they tried to have one.
It never worked. They tried everything they could, including visiting a wizard.
Finally one day the king came to terms with the fact that he could not have a son. He started crying and screaming, “How am I supposed to breathe with no heir?”
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12 ENTERTAINMENT
Echo Wednesday, September 27, 2017
General information
Weekend themes
Rennfest Aug. 19 to Oct. 1 Adult ticket price $20.95 Child ticket price $12.95 Free parking
Festival Friday Sept. 29 • Ladies shopping day • Education day • Dungeons and Dragons tournament
My favorite part of the Renfest are the workers. They’re so fun and try to submerge you in the culture. Ayanna Nathan, junior
October Fest Sept. 30 to Oct. 1 • Bavarian Village • Beard competition • Weiner dog races • Polka lessons
Charge ahead: A knight charges at his opponent in the jousting arena during a show.
Let the pins fly: Renaissance Festival entertainer juggles bowling pins during the 10 year running act, “The Danger Committee.”
Photos Isaac Wahl
Giddy up: A knight marshal gallops across the jousting arena at the Renaissance Festival. The Renaissance festival
Celebration REVIEW creates outlandish world alking through the castle gates of The Renaissance Festival, I was reminded of the magical experience it provides for people of all ages. Going to the Renaissance Festival (Renfest) has been a family tradition of mine ever since I was five-years old. Of course, for older kids, the Renfest has lost some of its charm, especially if you’re not really into the full jester or knight costume in summer heat. However, there is no shortage of fun activities and sideshow events to entertain yourself.
The festival is roughly the size of the Minnesota State Fair, although tickets are pricier and cost $20.95 per person. The layout is a bit confusing since there isn’t one specific section for shops and one section for food. Instead, they are peppered all over the fair, which makes it hard to find the specific meal you’re looking for. I’ve been going to the Renfest for roughly 13 years, and I have yet to try half of the food they offer. Food ranges from spinach pies, gyros, bacon mac n’ cheese to their famous turkey legs. All of it delicious and slightly overpriced, which is typical for all fair food. Along with large numbers of fried food, there is entertainment at the fair. There are rides, but they’re mostly meant for kids under the age of 11 and aren’t anything special. For older
festival-goers, there are plenty of comedy and talent shows that are free to watch and occasionally participate in. The times and locations of events are posted on a map you can get when entering the festival. Many of the shops at the Renfest have goods made by artists such as quilts, jewelry, walking sticks and even armor and swords. Some will be made right in front of you, such as wax hands and even glass blowing. Many of these goods are very expensive, but are fun to look at and ask the artists about. Almost every one of the employees at the Renfest are in character, adding to the fun and overall experience of the festival. For those interested in attending, he festival runs from Aug. 19 to Oct. 1. Tickets are $20.95 and $12.50 for kids.
Sept. 15 - Oct. 8
Sept. 29
Oct.6
Oct. 16
Experience a Broadway musical here in the Metro Area with a new production of the Disneyclassic, Aladdin, showing at the Orpheum this fall. Tickets for the show start at $39.
This fall, Miley Cyrus returns to mainstream music with her new album, titled “Younger Now.” The album is currently available for preorder on iTunes and presave on Spotify.
The long-awaited sequel to a 1982 science-fiction classic, “Blade Runner 2049” hits theaters this fall. The film stars Ryan Gosling and Harrison Ford, and is rated R.
Indie-rock band Imagine Dragons will rock the Xcel Energy Center this coming October, touring its successful third studio album, “Evolve.” Tickets for the tour start at $55.
Renaissance Festival W transports Minnesotans back in time
Lukas Levin lukaslevin@slpecho.com
METRO AT A GLANCE Isaac Wert isaacwert@slpecho.com
Photos used with permission from Deen van Meer, RCA Records, Warner Brothers and Xcel Energy Center