Echo Issue 10

the echo www.slpecho.com

drummers to be in diversity show | 04

boys' track looks to State | 09

St. Louis Park High School | 6425 W. 33rd Street, St. Louis Park, MN 55426 | Wednesday, May 15, 2013 | Volume 84 | Issue 10

News | briefs Park named finalist for LRT

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s the construction process for the Southwest Light Rail Transit (SWLRT) continues, the project committee named a site in St. Louis Park a finalist for an operation and maintenance station. The station, located at Excelsior Boulevard and Cedar Lake Trail on the border of St. Louis Park and Hopkins, is one of seven possible sites for the station.

The finalist will be announced in June or July.

Dream Act provides opportunities

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n May 1, the Minnesota state Senate passed a bill allowing undocumented Minnesota high school students access to financial aid when applying for college. Those who use the bill for postsecondary education are now eligible to receive money from the State Grant and private scholarships. read more | slpecho.com

Park nationally recognized

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n the recent Washington Post rankings, Park was ranked as the third best school in Minnesota and the 185th best school nationwide, out of a pool of 22,000 schools across the country. The Post ranks the top 9 percent of schools in the country based on the number of students taking AP and IB courses.

Park did not qualify for US News rankings this year. Newsweek ranked Park as the 31st best school in the state and the 1,389th best school in the country.

Contact || us us Contact Scan here to visit our website follow us @slpecho

photo | Conner Wickland Celebrating superintendent: After the School Board unanimously hired Principal Rob Metz as superintendent May 9, teachers and staff celebrated the selection Friday morning in the Staff Lounge. Some teachers wore ties in support of the School Board's decision to hire Metz.

Metz named superintendent Incoming superintendent outlines top five priorities

Unanimous vote concludes threemonth search Isaac Greenwood | entertainment editor

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Attract new students to enlarge budget

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Keep Park unique while maintaining academic success Further develop community partnerships

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Close achievement gap in district Unify district schools as one seamless K-12 group

source | Rob Metz

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fter nearly 32 years in education with jobs ranging from teacher to principal, Rob Metz is ready to assume the duties of superintendent.

Metz was chosen unanimously by the School Board May 9. The Board consulted with School Exec Connect, a Chicago firm focused on finding school administrators.

Freshman Melanie Stiner, who attended meetings May 8 and 9 regarding the selection of the new superintendent, said she thinks Metz should integrate the school district and community.

“The superintendent should bring the community together," Stiner said.

"I would like to see more opportunities to know people (in the district)" Metz said the community-driven aspect of the schools makes it unique compared to other districts. “(Park) has a long history and that is an advantage for us because so many people from around the community care about the schools,” Metz said. "Only 15 percent of Park residents have kids enrolled in the district, yet the other 85 percent often show strong support."

Sophomore Anline Lezama said Metz’s history in the district will make him a strong superintendent. “(Metz) is a good choice because he knows what he is doing,” Lezama said. “He has been principal for a while and has experience around the district.”

Metz said he and the board have started outlining a process for selecting a new principal.

“We will have no trouble finding a new principal,” Metz said. “People know this is a good district and have already started applying.”

Metz said a weakness in the district is the achievement gap between white and minority students.

“We are looking to truly close the achievement gap by aligning all schools and policies toward a common goal,” Metz said.

In addition, Metz said he plans to play an active role.

“What I am going to miss are the students, although I promise to be visible around the schools," Metz said. "I cannot imagine being in school and not seeing students and teachers, because that is what I like about the job."

Learning lab to stay Math assistant will return to current position Artis Curiskis | sports editor

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tudents who were concerned about the math resource room not being sustained for next year do not need to worry anymore.

The $1.3 million Small Learning Communities (SLC) grant ends next year. The administration has been working to finalize how Park will adjust to lack of funding.

This grant covers math resource room instructional assistant Will Tanberg and counselor Jeremy Riehle. Tanberg will stay at the math resource room according to Principal Rob Metz.

“We will have the math resource room next year in some capacity,” Metz said. “Tanberg might be there

for a little less time, but in some form we can keep it going.”

Metz said he has worked out a plan to fund the math resource room by borrowing money from each educational department.

“We will take a little supply money from each department,” Metz said. “But a little more from the math and science departments because most students visit the math resource room for help."

Tanberg said he understands that possibly reducing the hours he will be at the math resource room may limit some students' ability to work with him.

“Even now there are some students limited by the time frame,” Tanberg said. “Reducing the time might limit opportunities of some students to come, but it is better than not having it.”

Junior Allen Quan said it is very

photo | Jonah Resnick Math man: Math resource room instructional assistant Will Tanberg helps sophomore Aedan Foster and freshman Toviya Slager with math problems. important to the student body that Tanberg will be back next year.

“I think it will be a beneficial opportunity because I see a lot of students who struggle with math and improve from working with Tanberg,” Quan said.

While Metz has a solution to keeping Tanberg at Park, the decision for mental health counselor Riehle's future at Park is still being discussed.

“We are still looking at options and have not given up,” Metz said.

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the echo | Wednesday, May 15 , 2013

news

Students, staff react to new technology policy

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Taking the pill is better than having a baby. If the pill is consumed the day after, it technically isn’t a human.

Rachel Welke | junior

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Mixed responses to personal electronic usage Emily Melbye | staff writer

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martphones and other devices are now being introduced into classrooms to create a dynamic learning environment.

The Bring Your Own Technology (BYOT) program began April 12, under which students are able to register one personal electronic device to the school’s WiFi system.

Secondary technology trainer Angela Fransen said she is excited about the new program because of all the opportunities it could provide for increasing technology.

“I see it as a platform for future technology programs at St. Louis Park,” Fransen said. “It’s a small step toward incorporating more devices into the classroom.”

Fransen said in the future, the school may even move to a “One on One” program that has every student on their own device.

This would help incorporate more online learning in and out of the classroom, along with making sure every student has access to their own device to use.

Fransen said she thinks once teachers are more confident with BYOT it will be a helpful tool.

Math teacher Chad Austad said he plans on using the program in the future and is excited to learn more about it.

“I would use it to show my students what they can do at home, and not so much in the classroom,” Austad said.

Students also are adopting the new program with mixed emotions. Freshman Jordan Hutchins said he is excited for the new program to start.

“I’m also excited because there is so much on the Internet that can help you,” he said.

I would use it Hutchins, said he will to show my spend most of students what high school usthey can do ing and benat home, and efiting from this not so much program.

Junior Ethan in the classMaisel said he room. thinks the proChad Austad | math gram is a good teacher idea, but he is skeptical about how it will play out in the classroom.

“At this point I’m going to stick to my pen and paper,” Maisel said. “So far none of my teachers have used it.”

However, not all students agree with Maisel.

Junior Jackie Tshiteya said she is more optimistic about the program, because it would be helpful as long as it was monitored correctly.

“I think they just need more restrictions,” Tshiteya said.

The restrictions of the BYOT program include the right the school holds to access private information on any personal device a student is using under the Slp. Reg WiFi. Because of this, sophomore Emmi Zheng thinks the program won’t succeed.

“In the long run, the program will just be a waste of the school’s resources,” she said.

Fransen said she wants to remind students the technology department does not have the time to check every students’ personal information on their devices.

“Although the school does reserve the right to access students information under the BYOT program,” Fransen said. “There’s no need to unless there’s a safety issue.”

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photo | Madisen Lynch Over the counter: Teens who are 15 years or older can now legally buy Plan B medication to avoid unplanned pregnancy.

FDA lowers restrictions on Plan B One-Step Contraceptive to become more widely available Maddy Bremner | staff writer

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y summer, people could be seeing the contraceptive Plan B One-Step sold on store shelves next to other easily accessible health products.

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) lowered the age restrictions for Plan B One-Step contraceptive April 30, approving it for sale to teens as young as 15 and allowing it to be sold without a prescription.

This marks the first time an emergency contraceptive will be sold in store aisles to young teens.

U.S. District Judge Edward R. Korman ordered the FDA to make the pill available to all women and girls prior to their decision to decrease the regulations.

A compromise was reached by lowering the age restrictions to 15.

The contraceptive, better known as the “morning after pill,” is designed to pre-

vent pregnancy after unprotected sex or birth control failure.

Depending on where the consumer is in their cycle, it may prevent ovulation, interfere with fertilization of an egg or prevent implantation of a fertilized egg into the uterus according to the manufacturer.

Previously, Plan B was only available to those 17 and older with a prescription.

This restriction was very contentious, because many believed a prescription was too difficult to acquire in such a short period of time.

Nina Jonson, the education manager at myHealth, formerly known as West Suburban Teen Clinic, said she believes the change in regulation has been much anticipated.

“There has been a push for it for a long time, because Plan B is a contraceptive that many citizens and lawmakers felt should be more widely available,” she said.

Opponents of the FDA’s changes believe that at 15 teens are not mature enough to understand how the pill works, and that it may be misused.

Because of these concerns, Jonson said it is important that pharmacists and doctors provide education about Plan B OneStep.

“It’s not enough to just give someone the morning after pill,” Jonson said.

“They need to understand what it is, what it does, and how it works.”

Sophomore Haydarus Ibrahim said he believes the restrictions should be kept at 17.

“At 15 teenagers are too young to make such big decisions without talking to their parents,” Ibrahim said.

Health teacher Allison Luskey said she believes the FDA’s action gives teens a necessary resource.

“It gives greater options for young women to avoid unplanned pregnancy,” Luskey said.

“Mistakes can be made, and it’s important to have a backup plan,” she said.

Freshman Clara Slade said she thinks the revision will bring positive results for teens.

“Some girls might be too scared to go to their parents or a doctor for the morning after pill,” Slade said. “I think it’s a great opportunity to lower teen pregnancy rates.”

Plan B One-Step will be available on store shelves within a few months, being sold to those 15 and above with proper identification.

Same-sex marriage comes to Minnesota Legislature passes controversial marriage equality bill

Marriage vote | results The results of the marriage vote in the Minnesota state House and Senate

Emma Weisner and David Hope | copy editor and staff writer

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tarting Aug. 1, 2013, Minnesota will join the ranks of the 11 states to allow two adults of the same gender to marry.

The House voted 75-59 May 9 to pass the Marriage Equality bill and the Senate passed it 37-30.

As of press time Monday, it was expected that Gov. Mark Dayton signed the bill into law Tuesday.

Eric Jensen, the communications director at Project 515, an organization that works to promote the legalization of same-sex marriage, said he believes the bill was passed due in part to a change in public perception of same-sex marriage.

“Recently, there’s been a shift in people’s overall attitudes toward LGBT people,” Jensen said. “At some point people realize that marriage for same-sex couples is the same thing for straight couples.”

Sophomore Jason Keller said although his faith is against it, he doesn’t care either way about same-sex marriage.

The bill, passed May 13, will affect the approximately 10,000 same-sex families living in Minnesota, according to U.S. Census Bureau.

House Vote: 75-59

Senate Vote: 37-30

infographic | David Hope source | revisor.mn.gov Junior Sophie Macklem-Johnson said she belongs to one of the families affected by the bill.

“My parents are gay, and they’ve wanted to get married for a long time, but it wouldn’t have been recognized by the state,” Macklem-Johnson said. “That seems unfair to me, because being married should be a right.”

Sophomore Duncan McIntyre said he thinks the state should not define marriage.

“It shouldn’t be called marriage,” McIntyre said. “That term is defined by the church. It should be called a civil union.”

Jensen said he agrees, since there are 515 statutes in Minnesota applying specifi-

cally to married couples. Without the right to marry, these statutes exclude same-sex couples in committed relationships.

“There are a whole bunch of things in the law that work to protect families when they are married,” Jensen said. “Big things, like the ability to visit your partner in the hospital, but also small things like being allowed to have a joint fishing license.”

“We went from voting down the amendment to the marriage bill in just six months,” Jensen said. “But there’s still a lot that needs to be done.”

This law follows similar measures in Maine and Washington; all of which legalized it in the 2012 elections.

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They new bathrooms will be a lot nicer to use compared to the (portable restrooms).

Michael Perez | sophomore

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student life

the echo | Wednesday May 15, 2013

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Grant to shine new light on Louisiana Oaks

photo illustration | Conner Wickland & Claire Steffenhagen

Hennepin County grant to provide park with improvements Noah Betz-Richman | news editor

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These photo illustrations and graphics depict current pictures of Louisiana Oaks Park with proposed improvements added

Louisia

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occer and baseball teams may be able to practice late into the evening by next fall, because of plans to install lighting for three of four soccer fields at Louisiana Oaks.

In addition to lighting soccer fields, the project will add a sun shelter, a permanent bathroom, a fence for soccer fields and an outfield fence for the baseball field.

The project is funded by a Hennepin County Youth Sports Grant, the Youth Soccer Association and St. Louis Park.

Parks and Recreation superintendent Rick Birno said the The baseball addition of lighting to fields probably soccer fields will allow wouldn’t be too more teams and groups bad, but the grass to use the park. might get chewed “This will allow sports teams more opup pretty badly portunities to play, now that more since in the fall it gets people are using dark pretty early,” Birthe park. no said. “By October, if the fields don’t have Adam Belzer | sophomore lights, you can’t play there after 5:30 p.m.

Now that these fields have lights, teams will be able to play there until 10 p.m.”

Junior and soccer player Kelsey Tatarek said she agrees lighted fields will be convenient when scheduling soccer games in the fall.

“I think coaches and players will be able to schedule practices and games more easily because there are more time slots available,” Tatarek said.

In addition to the benefits lights will provide, sophomore and baseball player Adam Belzer said he believes the baseball field fence, which will be put up and down seasonally, will allow the baseball team to use the field more frequently.

“Having a fence in the outfield would allow the team to play games there,” Belzer said. “Right now, we just use Louisiana Oaks for practice.”

According to Birno, the motivation for installing the proposed fence for soccer fields is to avoid losing soccer balls in the forested area nearby.

“There’s a lot of overgrowth by the soccer fields, and soccer balls often get lost there, so the fence will stop that issue,” he said.

The grant will also provide a severe weather alert system, which will measure electricity in the atmosphere to detect incoming storms and alert people at the park to evacuate, according to Birno.

Birno said the weather alert system will prevent disputes among athletic teams over whether to cancel games because of the weather.

“In the past, it was up to coaches and referees to decide whether to cancel a game due to the weather. It was a very gray decision making process,” Birno said.

“Now it is a more concrete decision, since it’s up to the system,” Birno said.

Belzer said he is concerned the updates will cause fields to become overused.

“The baseball fields probably wouldn’t be too bad, but the grass might get chewed up pretty badly now that more people are using the park,” Belzer said.

According to Birno, the construction will work around the existing fields to allow teams to continue to use the fields during the building process.

“The construction should have no impact on use of the fields. The wiring will be underground, and light poles will be worked around the fields to avoid tearing up the grass.”

Construction for the project is scheduled to begin in June and will be finished before the fall athletic season.

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KEY fields lights

shelter restroom

streets fences

The numbers 1, 2 and 3 in the map are matched with their corresponding locations represented by the photographs infographic | Cole Bacig and Carter Green

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photo illustrations | Conner Wickland & Claire Steffenhagen

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the echo | Wednesday, May 15, 2013

For what | it’s worth

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I’m kind of sad, because I was happy about the dance being on a boat. I’m still excited to dress up though.

Reisha Collier | senior

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Nasro Omar | staff writer

Taking pride in my cultural heritage

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hen I was 10, I moved to the United States and joined a brand new class of students. For the first time in my life I felt like an outsider.

Glancing around my fifth grade classroom I felt an exclusion beyond just being new. I realized I was the only person of color, and I was alone in my diversity.

Seven years later, I no longer feel like I am alone, because I attend a more diverse school. This year I can take pride in being a part of the multicultural show that celebrates cultural diversity.

The show symbolizes different cultures coming together and educating the school about its cultural differences. It’s about being proud of who you are and where you come from.

The multicultural show is an acknowledgement of the various backgrounds at school. The show represents a enjoyable and educational way for people to learn more about our peers because we often do not often know much about our peers. While we might know their countries of origin, we don’t necessarily know their heritage.

Although the school is diverse, that diversity isn’t always acWhat’s the | knowledged point? by all students.

One • Take pride in of the show’s who you are main goals is to and where change this. you come By either from p a r t i c i p a ting • Acknowledge in the show or the school’s by attending it, diversity students should • Learn about gain underyour peers’ standing and cultures to appreciation expand your for the cultural worldview differences of the variety of students in our school.

The show is not just about race or ethnicity; it represents the range of cultures at our school that are not always acknowledged. It tell the story of many and their origins in a way that encompasses us all.

While the Latino show displayed the Latinos in our school and the Black History Show acknowledged the struggle and perseverance of African Americans, the multicultural show represents those of us who are often lost in the middle. It focuses on those of us who, as a minority within the school, are often hidden in the shadows of the majorities.

I am proud to be part of a show that encompasses and showcases the minorities in the school. By bringing minority students together the show can unify us in one community. Sharing information with each other about our cultural backgrounds can establish a sense of comfort that allows students to reach out to each other despite their differences.

Members of the student body should take advantage of the opportunity that the show offers to embrace the diversity of our school and apply the lessons learned in this experience to broaden their perspectives.

Sharing the experience: Senior Sarah Silbert donates a used prom dress in room B226 May 9 for another student to wear.

Photo I Natalie Sanford

‘Great Gatsby’ arrives in style at Prom New theme, location to bring excitement Zoe Kedrowski | staff writer

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lappers, jazz music and the roaring ’20s will be coming to Park May 18.

Student Council announced Prom will be 1920s themed, inspired by “The Great Gatsby.” Sophomore Student Council treasurer Ariella Schwartz said the decision came down to the decorations.

“We were deciding between this and another theme,” said Schwartz.

“We decided that decorations for the other theme would look cheap and that ’20s decorations would look classy.”

Student Council adviser Sarah Lindenberg said she believes the theme will likely get positive reactions from students.

“The theme is pertinent to juniors, and we kept it partly in mind from the movie coming out,” Lindenberg said.

In past years, Prom has alternated venues between underground caves and a boat. This year however, Prom will be in the Medina Ballroom.

Lindenberg said the change came from higher attendance in recent years.

“We have such high numbers that there are limited venues,” she said. “We chose a smaller venue with some added perks.”

According to Lindenberg, students have not been able to enjoy Prom on the boat

because of weather constrictions.

“In past years, it has been cold on the boat, so most haven’t experienced the outdoor element of Prom,” Lindenberg said. “The Medina Ballroom has a big dance floor for students to get together and have a good time.”

However, some students are not happy with the venue change. Junior Evan McManus said he is disappointed, but will not let the location ruin his night.

“I heard that the boat and caves are a lot better, but I’m still going to have tons of fun,” he said.

According to Lindenberg, prices will be lower than in previous years. Tickets will be sold at lunch this week for $20.

In the spotlight

Who: Hibaaq Shire, freshman Activity: Freshman Hibaaq Shire has taken her love of art and applied it to henna tattooing. It also allows her to connect to her faith.

Noah Robiner | staff writer

What is henna?

Henna is a tattoo that can be done just for fun or for special occasions like a holiday. It’s done in a different style than other tattoos. It only lasts for a week or a month, so it’s not permanent.

How much experience have you had with henna?

I’ve done maybe 10 different tattoos.

I did it for my mom, some strangers, my aunt, cousins and other people.

When did you get started?

I started doing henna when I was

photos | Khadija Charif Fancy footwork: Shire carefully concentrates as she completes a henna design on her friend’s foot. Shire enjoys working on tattoos as a hobby.

13- years old. I started working on it by doing drawings on paper and creating designs for henna.

Do you know other people who make henna?

My aunt does henna. She’s opening a store this summer in her house. I plan on getting a summer job there.

Do you ever create your own henna designs?

Sometimes I create my own designs.

Some people do the same thing every time but I like to change it up. When I was little I used to like drawing different

shapes, so now I take the shapes from when I was little, put them in my designs and use them for henna. It makes the designs more creative.

What do you enjoy about making henna?

It’s fun and I enjoy doing it. You can show other people your designs and feel good about it. It’s also fun to learn new designs.

What are your future plans for henna?

I know I’m not going to do it forever, so I’m just having fun with it. I just do it for fun for people.

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It’s a good idea to educate yourself on different cultures to avoid stereotypes.

Albert Ware | freshman

Show to celebrate diversity

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the echo | Wednesday, May 15, 2013

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Cultural variety emphasized in new student show Ivy Kaplan | staff writer

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rom African beadwork, to tea ceremonies in Japan, to Cinco de Mayo in Mexico, our world is full of distinct cultural traditions.

Students can embrace their own cultural traditions and heritages, as well as learning about others, in the upcoming program “A Mosaic of Rich Culture.” The program will give students the opportunity to share their cultures and customs with others who may not be aware of them.

Media Center staff member Danya Castro, producer of the performance, said she was inspired by the program’s impact on students at previous schools where she had worked. This gave her the idea to introduce the program at Park.

“I had done it before at another high school, so I wanted to bring that here,” Castro said. “I think sharing your culture and your ethnicity is very important to others.”

Senior Kira Hotaling said she decided to participate to show others the cultural diversity within the school.

“I chose to participate in the multicultural performance because I saw the chance to represent my own culture, which is Indian,” Hotaling said. “I don’t think many cultures get much acknowledgement.”

According to Castro, one of the aspects the Mosaic of Cultures performance will address is the negligence of many students regarding cultural awareness.

“I think students are so ignorant of other people’s cultures. There is a lot that needs to be done,” Castro said.

Photo I Khadija Charif

Preparing for Celebration: Students in band teacher Steve Schmitz’s world drumming class practice their music for the show, “A Mosaic of Rich Cultures.” They will perform May 23 during third and sixth hours.

Junior Tenzin Lhanze said she thinks many students are unaware of others’ cultures, and as a result, students’ ethnicities are generalized. This can lead to racial stereotyping, and can be frustrating to students.

“When people see Asians, they consider them Chinese, as well as Somalians, Mexicans and even whites,” Lhanze said.

According to Hotaling, the show will involve both educational elements and entertainment for viewers, including traditional dancing, a guest speaker, a poem,

a world drumming performance and a fashion show to entertain students as they watch.

“Mosaic of Cultures will give students the opportunity to see other cultures in more ways than just grazing over them in a textbook,” Hotaling said.

Mosaic of Cultures will take place during third and sixth periods on May 23. Students interested in participating should see Danya Castro in the Media Center for more information.

Activities & Awards History day contestants advance to state

Boys’ lacrosse undefeated at Montana tournament

Peter Johnson | staff writer

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leven History Day projects from Park competed at the state level May 4 at the University of Minnesota.

Sophomore Elliot Schwartz advanced to the state competition. While he did not advance to the national level, he said he and his partner got a lot out of the process.

“I’m disappointed that I didn’t move on,” Schwartz said. “Overall though, History Day was a good experience.”

History teacher Carley Kregness heads the History Day activities at Park, and said this year had the highest participation in History Day for the school.

“Participation is the best part as a teacher,” Kregness said. “I’m proud of our school.”

Four Park projects earned Honorable Mentions, as well as a fourth place finish.

he boys’ lacrosse team traveled to Billings, Mont., to participate in a club tournament April 10-14.

The only team from Minnesota, Park went undefeated 5-0, including a win over Montana’s reigning State champion, the Hellgate Knights.

Sophomore attacker Matt Harkema said he enjoyed the trip because of the team’s success.

“I felt accomplished beating the Montana state champions,” Harkema said.

Head coach Kevin Reed said he was impressed with his team’s performance.

“It was a big weekend, and a pretty awesome experience,” Reed said.

The two time state champions returned from Montana, and participated in another tournament in Grand Rapids, Minn., where they placed third overall.

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in-depth

the echo | Wednesday, May 15, 2013

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” Teen tanning Mara Bacig | freshman

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Carolyn Guddal & Noa Raasch | staff writers

hile many teens turn to tanning for beauty purposes, the potential dangers it can cause has created controversy over the serious side effects as a result of Ultra Violet radiation in tanning environments.

Recent legislation restrict tanning for teens

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Living in Minnesota, everyone is so pale, so you just wish you were tan.

ew Jersey passed a piece of legislation in April banning minors under 17 from tanning in commercial tanning beds. This law will go into effect Oct. 1, 2013.

New Jersey is following the example of other states that have banned minors from using commercial tanning facilities. New York and Wisconsin banned tanning under the age of 17, Texas under the age of 16.5 and California and Vermont under the age of 18.

Current Minnesota legislation requires people under the age of 16 to have parental consent to tan. The operator must also limit time to manufacturer’s maximum exposure recommendation and provide and require eye protection.

University of Minnesota assistant professor of dermatology Dr. Sarah Schram said she supports this piece of legislation.

“I think that it’s a difficult time for teens to have to navigate the pressure of the media by themselves, telling them they have to be tan,” Schram said. “Making it illegal to that young (of a) group can drop the dangers of acquiring melanoma.”

In contrast to Schram, freshman Albie Sher said she believes this legislation is an inefficient way for government to spend tax money.

“Governments should be focusing on other things that would help a wider range of people,” she said. “If people are doing it to themselves, they should face their own consequences.”

Tanning indoors imposes great dangers

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s school comes to a close and June approaches, junior Anna Basill said she uses a tanning bed to prepare for her summer skin.

“It’s so nice to get some sun,” Basill said. “It’s quick, it’s fast, it’s warm, and you end up looking good.”

According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), tanning is the skin’s response to injury.

Skin cells respond to UV damage by producing more pigment, and making the skin appear darker.

Sophomore Parker Bretl said he believes the main reason teens tan is for improving their appearance.

“When people are trying to make themselves look better it could be a motivation to tan or look tan,” Bretl said.

According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, a tanning bed uses ultraviolet radiation of long wavelengths (UVA rays) to give users a “healthy glow. The UVA in a tanning bed is three times more intense than sunlight, making the damage worse.

The Skin Cancer Foundation’s studies have also shown those who make four or more visits to a tanning booth per year can increase their risk for melanoma by 11 percent, and their risk for the two most common forms of skin

Students | shed light on tanning The Echo surveyed 323 students during lunch May 9,10 and 13 about their thoughts on the dangers of tanning and government regulation

49.8% of girls surveyed believe there should be restrictions on tanning for minors age 18 and under

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When people use tanning beds they seem (to) they value their appearance over their health.

Phillip Kersten | senior

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in-depth

the echo | Wednesday, May 15, 2013

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First signs | of sun damage An excess of sun exposure can lead to early wrinkles and aging spots

cancer, basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma by 15 percent.

Schram said she believes teens do not know the extent of the damage they are doing to their skin. “(Teenagers’) biggest risk from tanning is melanoma,” Schram said. “Unfortunately, melanoma is the most common form of skin cancer in young people.”

According to Schram, a summer tan may seem temporary as it will eventually fade, but UV rays age skin dramatically.

“It attributes to heavy collagen breakdown, which leads to premature fine lines, wrinkles and aging spots,” Schram said.

For men, melanoma often develops between the shoulders and hips, and on the head and neck 1 in 54 women will develop melanoma in their lifetime

Other forms of tanning provide alternatives

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anning in the natural sun is another method used by students. UV rays from the sun are less concentrated than from a bed. Freshman Zoe Eilers said she believes tanning outdoors is a less harsh way of achieving a darker complexion.

“Tanning outdoors is a lot safer than tanning indoors,” Eilers said. “It’s OK to be tan in the summer, but an excessive amount of anything can be bad for you, especially if you don’t wear sunscreen.”

Sophomore Ellie Stillman said she does not see a reason to risk health for color.

“People don’t take the risk of skin cancer seriously, but the threat is definitely there,” Stillman said. “I prefer to wear lots of sunscreen and gain a little color by just being outdoors, not by laying down for hours.”

Teens who want a healthy glow without the dangerous side affects of tanning have found an alternative method in spray tanning.

Also called a sunless tan, pigment mixed with the active chemical dihydroxyacetone is sprayed onto skin, staining it to a tanned color.

Sophomore Bailey Gormley said she believes a spray tan is a healthier option in comparison to other tanning methods.

“Spray tan is better for you because in a bed (and) with the sun, the UV rays are harsh on your body,” she said.

“Spray tan doesn’t have that. It also looks very natural.”

Senior Mariah Riley said she disagrees and said she does not think spray tans appear similar to a natural tan.

“I think they look more orange if it doesn’t go well,” Riley said. “It does not look natural at all.”

Schram said she believes the media’s positive portrayal of tan skin is a major influence on teens and is the cause of their motivation to appear tan.

“It’s very challenging because Hollywood and the media give the impression that it’s good to tan and have tanned skin all the time,” Schram said. “It’s unfortunate that teens feel they need to be tan to look good.”

Schram’s advice for preventing future permanent damage to the skin is simple.

“Teens need to monitor their skin immediately. Begin making healthy habits now,” Schram said. “By always wearing sun protective clothing, wearing sunscreen, drinking a lot of water and staying out of the sun’s rays when they’re the strongest, teens can avoid sun damage and skin cancer.”

The first sign of melanoma is change in size, shape or color of a mole, or the appearance of a new mole altogether

People who begin tanning before age 35 have a 75% chance of getting melanoma

For women melanoma most often develops on the lower legs

photo illustration | Amira Warren and Jonah Resnick source | skincancer.org, melanoma.com, cdc.gov and Dr. Sarah Schram

44.1% 61.4% 67.8% 30.7% 25.4% of boys surveyed believe there should be restrictions on tanning for minors 18 and under

of girls surveyed do not think students understand the dangers of tanning

of boys surveyed do not think students understand the dangers of tanning

of girls believe that there should be government regulation of tanning

of students surveyed do not think the dangers of tanning are exaggerated

08

Out of the | Park Artis Curiskis | sports editor

Going back to the basics

T

sports

the echo | Wednesday, May 15, 2013

o say I was surprised when my first soccer coach yelled “you’re kicking it like it’s a can of milk,” and then later, “what are you guarding, a fruit tree?” is an understatement.

At first these seemed like ridiculous comments for I have never seen a can of milk in my life or a fruit tree in the middle of a turf field, yet these comments have guided me as I develop as a player and now as a coach.

I have been volunteering and coaching at an inner city youth soccer organization called Joy of the People, which strives to create fun and creative settings for kids to play soccer and grow. I never realized the impact this experience would have on me. I also did not realize how much I would strive to emulate the positive impact that my coaches have had on me and to share the lessons they have taught me.

Working with and watching the kids excel in non-competitive situations reminds me to enjoy my time playing soccer and continues to teach me lessons that I apply in everyday life. These life lessons help me in group situations when a need to collaborate exists, to encourage and to support each other.

Also, these life lessons and occasional obscure comments and direct guidance from my coaches are applicable to development as a team and importantly, as an individual.

Being part of a team or playWhat’s the | ing a team point? sport can ex• Team sports pose a person’s can provide true character. personal For exgrowth ample, I have seen team• Learn from the mates score a sport being hat trick in a played championship • Work to game, help incollaborate, jured opposing encourage players off the and support field, cry beothers cause the goal they scored was dedicated to someone special and create strong friendships both on and off the field.

While competitive soccer can be heart wrenching and emotional when it is played with passion it allows players to grow as people and athletes. I hope my time coaching these kids can ensure they always know to enjoy soccer and develop as athletes who respect the game and everyone involved.

It is my job to both instruct and to create an atmosphere of fun. I have also taken into account another lesson from a past coach, which was “the game is the teacher.”

While keeping this in mind, I understand it is my job to organize and provide the tools for players to succeed, but overall it is learning from the sport that will improve them as players. I try to ensure that the kids I coach have the opportunity to play an unadulterated game with no referee or out of bounds lines. It is these times when a sport in its purest form, is most influential as a teacher.

Most importantly my coaches taught me and my teammates to take pride in everything we do which is a lesson I try to implement in my daily life and in soccer. While my coach’s words have stuck with me for nearly a decade, I hope the time I have spent with the kids at Joy of the People has given them the passion I have for the game and to always strive to be the best they can be.

‘‘

Because we have had less meets, we probably will have less experience than other schools Monique Best | sophomore

”

Park Flyers aids athletic success Track and field club helps runners prepare for school sport Sara Tifft | staff writer

S

ome Park Flyers participated in the True Team meet May 8, with Flyer Denzell Oats placing first in the high jump.

St. Louis Park finished last in the Section 7AAA True Team meet May 8 at Hopkins High School.

Senior captain Denzell Oats placed first in the high jump competition with 6-02 jump.

The team came in fourth in the 4x200 race.

Varsity conference preliminaries took place May 16 at St. Francis High School and June 7 and 8 the State meet will take place.

While many boys’ track runners only participate in the spring season, several take advantage of the Park Flyers track club in the winter and summer seasons in order to build on skills developed during the spring season.

Oats, along with three other high school runners participates in Park Flyers during the offseason, a track club not associated with the high school team.

Head track coach Rich Keith stresses the importance of yearround training and said he believes more runners should participate in the program.

“You get more individualized attention, so obviously you can fine tune,” Keith said.

Keith also said Park Flyer runners traditionally do well in meets year round.

“Typically the handful of kids that do (Park Flyers) excel during the spring season,” Keith said.

Senior Peyton Bretl who also participates in the Park Flyer said the competition tends to be significantly different during the Park Flyers season.

“There are less kids but they’re better,” Bretl said. “I like the fact that there is high competition.”

According to Bretl, he had a great experience traveling with the Park Flyers team during the summer to New Orleans and Baltimore to compete in the National Junior Olympics.

Junior Naris Uzzell has participated in Park Flyers since the summer of his freshman year.

He participated in the Hamline Elite Meet April 26.

“Park Flyers prepared me for

Step two: Burst from starting blocks

Step three: Build up in Step four: stride out until finish speed

photo | Natalie Sanford Jumping the last hurdle: Senior Peyton Bretl, a member of the Park Flyers track club, competes in the 300-meter hurdle event.

Hamline,” Uzzell said. “It made me a lot stronger and faster.” He also said that it is a different, more intense environment.

Keith said he thinks offseason training is beneficial.

“Any time anyone can compete or work on their sport outside the season, it is great,” Keith said. “It’s not the season that makes you better, it’s what you do outside of the season.”

Progression | of Starts

Step one: Get down into the start position

photo | Natalie Sanford

Lacrosse looks to future Girls’ team works to improve on teamwork, communication Sean Cork | staff writer

A

s the girls’ lacrosse season comes to an end, senior Sarah Webb realizes the importance of communication and teamwork.

This season the team was weakened by the loss of seven graduating seniors. Webb, who is one of three captains, said the loss of players affected their team structure.

“The more experienced defenders had to help out the newer ones,” Webb said.

The lacrosse team currently has a record of 3-6.

It played Minnehaha Academy with a score of 6-14 May 13. The team will play at home against Eagan High School May 21.

This year the team had 10 underclassmen

photo | Zoe Kedrowski Taking charge: Sophomore Anna Baer cradles the ball along the sideline. Park lost to Hopkins April 25. The team’s next game is at home May 24 against Eagan High School. playing for the varsity team. Webb said the young players are essential to a better team for the future.

“A good amount of our players have less experience,” Webb said “But they all have potential to become great players.”

Coach Kyle Sweeney said the team’s focus is not winning the conference, but functioning as a team.

“The most important part is playing as a team,” Sweeney said.

Sophomore Sophia Noreen said the central goals of the team is communication.

“Communication is the key to winning games,” she said.

This is the first season in five years the girls’ lacrosse team will not be competing in the conference championship game, according to Sweeney.

Noreen said she hoped the team would be successful in the future.

“We want to be seated high so we don’t have to play Visitation,” Noreen said. “We always lose.”

Regardless of this season’s losses, Noreen said the team members hope to improve in the future.

“We would like to reclaim the title of conference champions (next year) by beating Benilde,” she said.

‘‘

I think team bonding is important in order for the team to perform well and support each other.

Djalna Twaha | freshman

”

the echo | Wednesday, May 15, 2013

09

a-list | athlete

Who: Jenna Laidlaw, senior Sport: Girls’ softball When did you first start playing softball and why?

I first started in third grade, probably because I wanted a sport. I never played soccer or anything else like that.

What position do you play?

Right now I play catcher for my team, but each season it varies because I’m kind of a utility player.

Do you plan to continue playing softball after high school?

Yes and no. I’ve talked to the softball coach for the school I’m going to, but as of now it’s kind of up in the air. I hope to, but we’ll see.

photo | Natalie Sanford Focusing on Form: Junior Maggie Yarosh works to improve on her discus technique at practice with advice from her coach May 13.

Athletes aim for a strong finish Girls’ track and field finds inspiration for training Meagan Hein | staff writer

A

s the season nears its end, the girls’ track team prepares for its final meets, finding encouragement along the way.

The team placed eighth at True Team at Hopkins High School May 8.

Senior Sarah Silbert placed fourth in the long jump.

Head coach Christine Tvrdik said that she was impressed with the teams’ performance at the meet.

“We had multiple personal

bests in nearly every event,” Tvrdik said.

The Orioles will compete in the girls’ varsity finals at St. Francis High School May 16.

“Our goal for this meet is to see as many athletes make finals as possible,” Tvrdik said. “I want to see kids reap the benefits of what hard work and commitment can provide.”

This year, the distance squad gained a new coach with extensive experience in track. Elizabeth Yetzer has been running

track since seventh grade and is a NCAA champion.

Yetzer said one of her main goals as a coach is to show her team what track can offer.

“Track is so much like life,” Yetzer said. “It is a process of learning that you can do more than you ever thought your body could accomplish and it is achieved through persistence and perseverance.”

Since high school, Yetzer has used a workout journal to help track progress, and she now encourages her team to do the same.

“Keeping a training journal helps you to be more reflective and invested in your own training,” Yetzer said. “Just like in

school, when you reflect on your learning, you take more ownership and retain or understand concepts at a greater depth.”

Freshman Madison Vignes said she finds the journals beneficial to her training.

“It’s really helpful for helping me set my pace,” Vignes said.

“It also helps me look at my strengths and weaknesses.”

Senior Meryssah Krueger said she feels Yetzer has a positive effect on the team.

“She has really inspired our team and created a positive atmosphere for all of us,” Krueger said. “She makes it easy to stay positive with her infectious smile and affirmative comments she brings to practice everyday.”

Park | Playbook 23 15 16

Boys’ Golf

Girls’ Golf

Baseball

3:25 p.m. at 4:15 p.m. at Theodore Wirth Dakota Park Park 3:30 p.m. at Minnekahda

3:45 p.m. at 4:15 p.m. at Theodore Wirth Dakota Park Park

17

6:30 p.m. at Bloomington Park

18

10 a.m. at Spring Lake Park H.S.

20

Synchro

8 a.m. at Bunker Hill Golf Course

Tennis 4 p.m. at Park

4 p.m. Sections Sections. To at Osseo Maple be decided by May 15 results Grove

8 a.m. Sections at Osseo Maple Grove

Softball 4:30 p.m. at Aquila Park

Do you have any pregame rituals?

I always listen to music to try and clear my mind and try to not get too stressed out about it.

What’s the relationship like between the older and younger team members?

The older players take the lead, but at the same time we see each other as equals, and we try to help each other out as much as we can. We want to make sure that they are living up to their potential.

Are there any lessons that softball has taught you?

A big aspect is learning to work as a team, and helping each other through any hardships. Say someone has a bad hitting streak, or they strike out, you make sure that you are picking up your other teammates and that you provide a positive aspect even though they might be having a bad time.

Who inspires you when playing softball and why?

I’ve always idolized Jennie Finch. Even though she is a pitcher I still admire her because she really brought softball to the public and made softball a sport that every girl could play no matter what age.

How would you describe yourself as a player?

I try to relax on the field and encourage my fellow players and always make sure that each player feels like they’re part of the team, and that they belong there.

What is your personal goal for the remainder of your season?

I hope that my batting average increases. From our previous games it has improved, but I hope that it will keep improving.

What is your favorite memory from your softball career?

It was our game against Columbia Heights. And it was a solid win. We played great as a team, we worked as a team, it was just a really good game on our part.

What do you do during the offseason to train?

During the offseason I’ve done summer ball and other summer leagues to help me improve my game.

How is your season currently going?

We haven’t had a game yet, and we’ve gone outside like four times total. It’s been rough to be inside all the time.

I.K.

10

the echo | Wednesday, May 15, 2013

the echo St. Louis Park Senior High School 6425 West 33rd Street St. Louis Park, MN 55426 editor in chief | Ari Weinstein managing editor | Brenna Cook web editor | Josh Scal copy editors | Gabe Bichinho & Emma Weisner design editors | Cole Bacig & Carter Green art & infographics editor | Claire Steffenhagen photo editors | Khadija Charif & Conner Wickland web photo editor | Lucas Kempf news editor | Noah Betz-Richman student life editors | Lucas Kempf & Josh Scal features editor | Josh Anderson in-depth editor | Suh Koller sports editor | Artis Curiskis opinions editor | Sten Johnson entertainment editor | Isaac Greenwood staff | Maddy Bremner, Sean Cork, Ori Etzion, Shoshi Fischman, Gila Grad, Malik Grays, Noa Grossman, Carolyn Guddal, Meagan Hein, David Hope, Brita Hunegs, Peter Johnson, Ivy Kaplan, Zoe Kedrowski, John Kinney, Madisen Lynch, Emily Melbye, Josh Mesick, Nasro Omar, Noa Raasch, Noah Robiner, Alonso Ruiz-Shimada, Natalie Sanford, Sara Tifft, Natalie Vig, Daniel Vlodaver, Amira Warren business manager | Jonah Resnick principal | Robert Metz printer | American Color adviser | Lori Keekley publication policies The Echo is the official student-produced newspaper of St. Louis Park Senior High School. It is published tri-weekly for the school’s students, staff and community.

The Echo will not be reviewed by school administrators prior to distribution, and the adviser will not act as a censor. Content represents views of the student staff and not school officials.

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.

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 may be e-mailed to slpecho@gmail.com or submitted in room C275. Letters must be signed and should be no longer than 250 words.

E-mailed letters must be verified prior to publication. We will not necessarily publish all letters received and reserve the right 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. 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; NSPA 2007 Pacemaker Finalist, 2010 National Pacemaker Award Recipient and 2011 Pacemaker Finalist; JEM All-State; CSPA Gold Medalist; 2012 CSPA Silver Crown, 2013 CSPA Gold Crown

opinions

Our | Perspective:

‘‘

”

People should hear out what the parents have to say, as well as the coaches, to get both sides of the story.

Mohamed Abdi | junior

Program continuation to aid learning D

espite difficulties presented by decreased grant funding, it is beneficial to students’ academic interests that the school is continuing to offer the math resource room.

While the loss of funding means it may be challenging to continue the programs provided by the Small Learning Communities (SLC) Grant, its positive impact on the school should make the math resource room a priority for the school.

Every week recorded, the math resource room received more visits than any other part of the learning lab.

In recorded weeks, 5,265 people visited the math resource room this year. Such high usage reflects the student demand for the math resource room.

It is commendable the school is making such a heavily used program a priority, especially because it furthers the school’s ability to cater to a variety of student needs.

The services offered by the math resource room help address the variety of student learning styles prevalent in the school.

While some students may find it easy to grasp a mathematical concept the way it is taught in class, others may find it more difficult to understand.

These students should have resources easily available to them so they can learn the concepts in a method better suited to

The SLC grant gives students homework aid and a place go for help on projects

art | Claire Steffenhagen

their individual learning styles.

The math resource room is also beneficial in that it can help distribute students’ needs among different teachers.

Some students may desire more explanation than their teachers can provide while working with other classes.

Going to the math resource room may allow these students to receive this individual attention and increase their performance in their math classes.

Other students may want greater review of a topic before an important test or assignment.

While there may not be enough time to review these concepts in class, it could be provided in the math resource room without delaying the class schedule.

The administration should be praised for making the continuation of the math resource room a priority.

While the decreased funding may present challenges, such a popular program should be emphasized.

By continuing its support of the aid provided by the math resource room the school is making a smart investment in the students’ future.

Bill to quiet parents’ complaints Some parents’ obsession in their children’s activities sparks new ideas Shoshi Fischman | staff writer

T

he Minnesota Legislature is considering a bill to protect sports coaches from passionate parents.

Under the current system, a Minnesota high school athletic coach can be fired solely based on parental complaint. The bill proposes the dismissal of a coach must be based on other factors and not negative parental input.

A coach is responsible for the performance of the entire team while parents’ concerns are purely for their children’s well-being and their individual performance. Because Overprotective their main concern is parents are for their own child, only doing a many parents’ perspectives are too narrow. disservice to This creates a situation their children. where some parents can influence other parents to complain, which affects whether or not a coach is retained or fired.

This bill will allow athletic directors and administrators the flexibility to hire and fire coaches based on many criteria, as they couldn’t do in the past. In the past five years, 110 hockey coaches across Minnesota left their coaching position and 35 percent of

those departures were because of parental complaints, according to Mike MacMillan, executive director of the Minnesota Hockey Coaches Association.

This gives the administration and athletic directors the leeway to make decisions not solely reliant on parent requests, making the coaching staff the best it can be. Giving the coaches more freedom to make decisions based on the team as a whole, rather than cater to the individual student athlete.

Minnesota is currently the only state discussing this issue. The bill was introduced by a previous Minnesota cross country coach.

One benefit of this legislation is that it will force student athletes to stand up for themselves instead of relying on their parents. This increases the likelihood of students being independent long after high school.

Overprotective parents are only doing a disservice to their children. By sheltering their children from difficult situations they need to learn to deal with, parents are not allowing their children to learn how to be independent in society.

Students need to become self-sufficient at a reasonable age. They need to learn to rely on themselves more than others to do their job for them. By forcing student athletes to talk to their coaches on their own they learn how to become self-reliant.

While it is important this bill is supported in the upcoming legislative discussion, high schoolers can do something now. If students have a problem with a coach, take it up with them, and be a responsible young adult.

Corrections In a March 30 folio on page nine, the photo was of Phelahjahmal Ibura. The Echo regrets this error.

To Gatsby prom theme.

Park already has enough flappers.

To Retro Gaming. Now I can be a ten year old forever.

To Tanning.

Sorry Park, orange is totally not my color.

To new superintendent. Let it snow, let it snow, let it snow.

A.C., J.M., N.R., J.R.

‘‘

Clicktivism can help show that you support a cause, but it isn’t enough to change the cause.

Heather Westwood | freshman

New form of | activism

”

opinions

the echo | Wednesday, May 15, 2013

Some activists see the Internet as a replacement for traditional protest methods, while others don’t see its potential to foster change.

11

Hopkins team underlines racial debate Schools should set standards for dress Amira Warren | staff writer

D

art | Alonso Ruiz-Shimada

Point | counterpoint:

Clicktivism incites debate among activists People around the globe can now bring mass awareness to an issue and create events with ease. Popularly known as “clicktivism,” the use of the Internet and social medias has become the new tool of activists. However, controversy exists among traditional activists as to whether this new type activism is effective in bringing about real change.

Natalie Vig | staff writer

Ori Etzion | staff writer

The use of social media is the next step for activists

The world’s problems will not be solved by just a few clicks

W

ith increased use of social media, clicktivism is a natural way to share beliefs with friends.

Utilizing clicktivism as a means of protest is a simple way to connect to others and unite behind a cause.

One example is the recent emergence of the popular #prayforBoston on Twitter. The use of this hashtag created a sense of community for the city of Boston in the aftermath of the Boston Marathon bombings. This truly embodies the prevalence of one united nation as people set aside their differences to empathize with the victims.

Another example is the red and white 13 symbol for Benilde-St. Margaret’s junior Jack Jablonski when he injured his back during a hockey game that left him paralyzed last year. His Facebook page received more than 37,000 likes and thousands of people changed their profile pictures to support him. Without this attention, Jablonski’s incident may have been overlooked by the media and he wouldn’t be the inspiration to many he is today.

Additionally, in late 2011, the Stop Online Piracy Act (SOPA) and the Protect Intellectual Property Act (PIPA) were introduced to the House and Senate. These bills were created to protect authors and artists from illegal piracy through the use of the internet but the terms used were too general and would severely limit the use of the Internet.

Consequently, 150,000 websites, including Reddit and Wikipedia, participated in a “blackout” in which they censored their websites in a way the bills would.

The blacked out Wikipedia home page was viewed 17 billion times, compared to the 4.5 billion views the previous day according to a statement released by Wikipedia.

Without this widespread display of dislike, SOPA and PIPA may have been overlooked by the media, and we would be looking at a different Internet.

Overall, clicktivism can be a useful tool for spreading the opinion of the masses. As it becomes more widespread, it should be embraced and utilized to its fullest extent to educate and unite people for causes they are passionate about.

A

t first glance, clicktivism shows great potential for activists, but as with any new change, the public must be wary.

Clicktivism asks less of supporters and focuses on making participants feel good about supporting a cause, rather than on accomplishing something productive.

Beginning in late March, amid the oral arguments for two Supreme Court cases, the Human Rights Campaign asked its supporters to share its red equals sign logo on Facebook to show support for same-sex marriage.

The Facebook Data Science Team reported a 120 percent increase in profile picture updates, and the logo was shared more than 70,000 times directly from the Human Rights Campaign page alone.

It is evident the campaign’s goal to show support was met, but this does little to institute progress toward marriage equality. The Supreme Court Justices do not check whether enough people have changed their profile pictures before making a decision on cases; they base their decisions on other factors.

Another example of clicktivism was the Kony 2012 short film created by Invisible Children, Inc. According to the online video marketing company Visible Measures, the Kony 2012 film needed only six days to achieve 100 million views. For such an impressive achievement, some would expect the capture of the alleged war criminal Joseph Kony to occur by 2012, as the campaign was aimed for.

The problem with this video is that it oversimplifies the issue and aims to market the idea that posting on Facebook and buying wristbands and T-shirts will equate to fighting a revolution. A 20-year-old problem in Uganda will not disappear if activists focus on only popularizing Kony as the super-villain of the 21st century.

Spreading awareness on the chance someone else will bring about change should not be classified as activism. If people want to be real activists, they should do so in public, not sitting behind a computer screen, and stand firmly for what they believe in, even if it is not trending on Twitter.

espite the end of segregation and the civil rights movement, problems with race and equality still come up today.

More than 150 students walked out of Hopkins High School Feb. 13 because they felt the “ghetto” spirit day dress code for the Nordic ski team was a mockery of black culture, according to Minnesota Public Radio (MPR). The team dressed up like gangsters with sagging pants, chinchilla coats with chains and joints in their ears according to MPR. Two students complained to the school administration but were told it was too late to do anything about the dress code.

The dress codes chosen by sports teams and clubs at Park are not racially offensive, but most schools do not have a set standard on what is offensive, including Park. What is offensive to one person may not be to others. According to athletic director Andy Ewald, sports teams are told to follow the student dress code and sports Students uniforms.

Park should spirit T-shirts and become dress clothes are aware suggested.

Acof racial cording to Ewald, athletes must keep issues in mind that they within are projecting the schools image of their team and themselves.

Setting standards for what is considered to be offensive and insulting clothing would prevent problems similar to what happened at Hopkins.

Park dress codes may not be offensive but are inappropriate at times. By wearing clothing that is too short such as skirts, shorts and dresses, problems regarding offensive dress code are bound to happen. The School Board should make clear what is considered offensive in the student handbook, set standards that give examples and express guidelines to parents.

Furthermore, there should be set consequences if an incident like Hopkins were to happen again.

The administration should educate its students on the cultures around them today. Sports teams should be conscientious to others when choosing dress codes. Students need to be aware of the issues of racism that still exist in society.

Park | trail By: Gila Grad All right just one more game.

Come on!

Level Ten!

Sweetie, what’s going on? It’s three o’clock.

A.M. or P.M.?

12

entertainment

the echo | Wednesday, May 15, 2013

‘‘

Holly Dvergsten | senior

DUSTING OFF THE

OLD CONTROLLERS Teens find interest in retro video games Brita Hunegs & Josh Mesick | staff writers

T

wenty-eight years after Nintendo released the first Mario Bros., students are hitting the restart button on old video games.

Retro gaming is “old school” gaming, a trend common among students and young adults looking to play games from older generations.

Annie Spirpos, owner and operator of the Minneapolis arcade Rusty Quarters, said she opened the arcade to connect people through retro games, which are primarily from the 1980s.

Spirpos said retro gaming encourages social interaction because the gamers are playing with their friends in person, not on a computer, the way most modern games are played.

“Retro gaming is coming back,” Spirpos said.

“People are breaking out of the basement and talking to each other face-to-face.”

At Rusty Quarters, Spirpos said she attempted to create the nostalgic social vibe of a classic arcade.

“People starting new families want their children to experience the games they loved from their childhood,” Spirpos said.

The creation of home consoles gave birth to a generation of gamers the world had not seen before.

Computer science teacher David Engelhart said those interested in retro gaming appreciate the need to be together in order to play a game.

“There’s a certain aspect of socialization that is healthy when games are played together,” Engelhart, said. “I think we do best with the actual physical presence of others.”

Engelhart said he has seen a resurgence of retro gaming lately.

metro at a glance

”

The older video games are more fun and easier to understand.

photo | Madisen Lynch Going Retro: Rusty Quarters in Uptown boasts an array of authentic vintage video games for all ages.

Where to play:

“People take what is old and make it cool again,” he said. “A lot of my students find older systems in their house.”

Even with the trend of retro gaming, sophomore Jon Chatman said he enjoys the more developed, complex characters and story lines, instead of the old, straightforward one.

“With newer games, the characters grow along with the progress of the game,” Chatman said.

However, senior Duncan Weisbrod said he plays older games because he prefers their style.

“The big producers games are getting repetitive,” Weisbrod said. “People are looking for a more unique experience that may have been created earlier.”

When it comes to retro gaming, Spirpos said she believes older games are much more appreciated than that of the newer ones, because they are more challenging and engaging.

“The graphics and movements are more limited, if you fall an inch down the screen you die,” Spirpos said.

Something that cannot be improved with technology, is the feeling the game creates.“The older games are told through the gameplay,” Weisbrod said.

“Nowadays the story is told through cutscenes and you don’t experience the story firsthand.”

Senior Maggie O’Brien said she grew up playing Pokémon and Zelda. Although she still plays these games, O’Brien said she also believes in the importance of playing games with others and appreciates the online capabilities of newer consoles.

“It’s cool to be able to play games with your friends across the world, even in your own home,” O’Brien said.

On the contrary, Spirpos said she believes the transition to online gaming is not necessarily a good one.

“With Xbox you can play with people across the world, but you miss the social interaction of being with other people,” Spirpos said.

Rusty Quarters Retro Arcade 818 West Lake St. Minneapolis, 55408 Hours: SundayMonday: Closed Tuesday Thursday: 3-10 p.m.

Friday: 3 -11 p.m.

Saturday: noon-11 p.m.

Games offered: 26 arcade cabinet-style and pinball games, such as Frogger, Asteroids and Dig Dug. source | http://www.rqarcade.com/ infographic | Carolyn Guddal

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May 21

Daft Punk releases its fourth album, “Random Access Memories.” The Grammy-winning French electronic band has gained a fan base worldwide because of their unique beats, use of visuals and performance on the 2010 “TRON: Legacy” soundtrack. The album contains 13 tracks, many featuring collaborating artists from various bands.

May 24

The 47th Edina Art Fair kicks off for two weekends at 50th and France. It will feature various artists, including painters, potters and live musicians. The fair runs 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays, and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sundays. Entry is free, and Metro Transit will run free busing and light rail routes to the fair from all routes and Southdale Mall.

June 3 The Linden Hills Farmers Market begins its summer season, featuring local farm produce and craft vendors, as well as food such as Gai Gai Thai and Red Wagon Pizza. It will run every Sunday regardless of weather, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., and is located in the Settergren’s Hardware parking lot near 43rd Street and South Upton Avenue in Minneapolis. Entry is free of charge.

By Isaac Greenwood