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Buying Into Fall PG. 14 - 17 Exploring the intersection between fashion and consumerism

LADUE HORTON WATKINS HIGH SCHOOL 1201 S. WARSON RD. ST. LOUIS, MO 63124 VOL. 75, ISSUE 1 OCTOBER 2026

table of contents

Contents 5

NEWS Charging the Future

FEATURES Unlocking the Formula

Chemistry teacher Andrew Ribbing brings hands-on learning and strong AP results to the Ladue community

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

“True” Crime

On the Cover

True crime culture turns Lindsay Clancy trial into entertainment for online audiences

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LADUE HORTON WATKINS HIGH SCHOOL 1201 S. WARSON RD. ST. LOUIS, MO 63124 VOL. 75, ISSUE 1 OCTOBER 2026

Buying Into Fall

NEWS Charging the Future News to Know Access Restricted

5 6 8

FEATURES Unlocking the Formula ‘God is Enough for Me’

10 12

IN-DEPTH Buying into Fall

OPINIONS New Technology Policy Limits Student Education Opinions to Hear Guilt Tipping Pump the Brakes

20 22 24

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT ‘True’ Crime In the Spotlight Smiski

25 26 28

HEALTH & SPORTS Hydration Station Raising Spirits Sports in Review

29 30 32

PHOTO To Reach New Heights

Raising Spirits

Buying into Fall

HEALTH & SPORTS

Exploring the intersection between fashion and consumerism

CREDITS: Editor’s photo, front and back cover photo by Teo Lee. Front and back cover design by Emery Mao. laduetoday.com

IN-DEPTH

PG. 14 - 17

October 2026

sponsors

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news

An electric vehicle charger sits in the staff parking lot near the Jahnke Entrance Sept. 20. Currently unserviceable, electric vehicle chargers are planned to open to general access. Energy initatives on the high school campus were installed with places to grow and expand. “The infrastructure that we have in place at this moment is designed to make it easy to continue to add more panels as far as the construction and the connection to the grid goes,” social studies teacher Kelley Krejnik said. (photography by Ian Jenkins)

Charging the Future Ladue High School receives an allotment to implement solar panels and electric vehicle chargers

by Sophie Yuan staff

high school, backed by Project Charging for the Future, implemented green energy initiatives such as solar panels and electric vehicle chargers starting late August. EV chargers have been installed in the staff parking lot while the solar panels are near the Jahnke Entrance, visible from the greenhouse. Kelley Krejnik is a social studies teacher and the sponsor for Ladue’s Student Action for a Greener Earth club. She noted that the process to implement green energy was a lengthy operation. Talks of implementing solar panels have circulated since Krejnik began working at the high school. However, responding to such requests took longer. “The pandemic, as it did for everything, was disruptive and created delays,” Krejnik said. “But it also gave us an opportunity for students to learn, do research and organize their approach towards how they wanted to advocate for this type of work and build relationships.” Project Charging for the Future also hopes to provide cross-curricular investigations, including specialized teaching opportunities for variadue

Spread Design by Loukya Gillella

ous business courses concerning the panels’ energy and battery usage. “There’s software that’s used for the EV chargers in the solar panels,” Krejnik said. “It’s a source of potential revenue because we’re providing the electricity to charge vehicles. We can earn money and that’s something that students can evaluate in business classes.” The Ladue Education Foundation is the institution behind the $40,000 grant given to Ladue High School to implement green energy changes. LEF Executive Director Julie Ferrie explains that the money is sourced from willing members of the local Ladue community. “We fundraise through our generous community, alumni, current families and businesses,” Ferrie said. “All of these ways in which we fundraise provide the extra things that we’re talking about. These green initiatives are some of the things that we’ve supported over the years.” While the LEF provided resources necessary to make the jump to green energy possible, student outreach made the implementation of green energy into reality. “It’s been a combination of SAGE,” Krejnik said. “Student researchers and advocates were very influential in gathering data

Sophie Yuan

MORE TO KNOW

2.4 gigawatts of energy have been generated by solar panels in K-12 schools in the US

1 in 7 students attend a solarpowered school SOURCE: Generation 180

Scan for Ladue SAGE’s Instagram page

and research, doing comparisons with other schools in our area and throughout the country, researching the effects of greenhouse gases on the environment and human health.” The EV chargers and solar panels are predicted to change the high school’s energy for the better. Specifically, the solar panels will serve as an element in a circular exchange of energy between the EV chargers and the high school. “The most practical purpose is that it adds a source of clean and cheaper energy that can contribute to the electricity that we use here on campus,” Krejnik said. “It also is helping to offset the addition of four different EV charger stations for vehicles that we have that are near where the solar panels are located.” Project Charging for the Future is another example of student-led commitment to sustainability. The high school’s addition of green energy is a step towards a better future for the local Ladue community. “If you think about it, we have global warming and we have all these things,” Ferrie said. “‘What can we do about that?’ Well, what we can do is to make a difference in our own way through some of these kinds of projects.” P

news

News to Know Parking barriers lay across numerous spots in the north student parking lot. Students with parking passes have had trouble adapting to this change made by the administration. “I think I witnessed one person drive over them,” Assistant Principal Andrew Ross said. (photography by Ian Jenkins)

Locking the Lot Admin installs parking barriers to improve safety and organization by Alina Tenenbaum news editor

arking barriers were

added to 69 spots in the north parking lot of Ladue High School in July as an attempt to combat significant traffic flow and student safety issues. Assistant Principal Andrew Ross was involved with the administration’s decision to implement these parking barriers. Discussions surrounding updates to the student parking lot began two years ago. “We were having some significant issues with kids pulling through parking spots, turning in front of people [and] several accidents resulting from that,” Ross said. “In 2021, they used temporary cones and barriers that they would tie ropes in between all the spots to prevent people from cutting through. But by year two, a lot of them were getting broken and torn and cut because kids were damOctober 2026

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Curb Appeal Students share their perspective on parking curbs

“

I think they’re an extra boundary that’s not necessary. Last year, it was much easier to get in and out of the parking lot.” Peter Pruett (12)

aging them or trying to just drive through them anyway. The barriers allowed for there to be a little bit more of a consistent and steady traffic flow around a lot." The administration has faced numerous accounts of student backlash and negative opinion as a result of the recent construction. “I think it’s a horrible thing they did [and] a waste of money especially,” Riana Maganty (12) said. “I’m in the catalyst lot, [but] I don’t have catalyst, so it takes me forever to get out. It’s really annoying because the juniors have better spots than me. I think that it was a complete waste of money and time.” These plans were originally intended to be completed at the same time as the staff parking lot in 2024, but due to construction in the north lot, the plans were postponed. “When we [learn about] issues with the facilities department about different things as it pertains to the physical structure of our campus, they offer solutions,” Ross said. “‘How can we allow for kids to [drive] around without cutting into each other?’ We looked at something like a grass median too. But, the cost and utility of it was gonna restrict space too much. So, the parking barriers kind of became the natural choice.” P

“

We have seen a better traffic flow for sure. Our security [and] safety folks that deal with these kinds of things saw it last year and this year, there is a more consistent traffic flow.”

“

I don’t like them because it makes it a lot harder to get in and out of my parking spot. It’s annoying.”

Aiden Anthony (12)

“

Getting a parking pass is a privilege. [In] your senior year, you get better spots. The curbs defeat that purpose.”

“

Andrew Ross assistant principal

*Only seniors park in spots where the curbs are located. Juniors in the lot are unaffected.

Charlie Grafals (12)

Micah Savage (12)

“

I hate them and I can’t get out of the parking lot fast enough, which is really frustrating for me.”

They’re kind of nice because now people can’t pull through when we’re leaving, which is a lot safer.” Gigi Stoeva (12)

news

Fresh Faces

Around STL

Two new teachers share their thoughts on Ladue

Lillie Morisaki

Two Sides to Every Jury Theater Director Justin Scheuer talks about the fall play “12 Angry Jurors” What is one goal you have for this year’s fall production? A goal of mine is to allow the cast to find their own way with the characters.

Mid-Season Updates

How did you decide on the production? I was looking for a strong actorfocused play that had modest tech requirements to balance our season.

November Events

What are any challenges you’ve met so far? Scheduling is always a challenging aspect of rehearsal because everyone is so busy.

What made you decide to do two casts for this production? We have such a talented and hardworking talent pool. This show is the perfect choice for trying out this experiment because there are no November Events scene or costume changes.

Lillie Morisaki is a new English teacher at Ladue this year. Before Ladue, she was a student teacher at the Wentzville School District, but this will be her first year teaching. What made Morisaki choose Ladue was her intuition that she would be able to continue to learn and grow here. One goal Morisaki has for the year is to attend all of her students’ events and performances. “Both the students and staff have been so welcoming, and I have loved getting to know everyone here,” Morisaki said.

William Lewis Another new teacher at Ladue this year is William Lewis, a physics teacher. He is currently in his 23rd year of teaching. Lewis chose to come to Ladue this year because his family was looking for an adventure of a new city and a new and exciting job opportunity for Lewis himself. One goal Lewis has for next year is to spend as much time as possible with his family exploring what St. Louis has to offer and all of the surrounding areas. “I love how friendly and helpful the students and staff at the school are,” Lewis said. Rediet Asgedom (11) and Charley Patterson (11) hold boxes made for UNICEF’s Trick-orTreat fundraiser. This fundraiser has been very successful in fulfilling UNICEF’s mission of providing humanitarian aid. “The Trick-orTreat fundraiser raises money for children all over and also adds meaning to Halloween,” sponsor Mary Delia said. (photo courtesy of Mary Delia)

Spread Design by Alina Tenenbaum

(photo courtesy of Free 4 All)

Free 4 All STL Free 4 All STL will take place across multiple venues in the Grand Center Arts District in St. Louis from Nov. 6 to Nov. 8. This festival is free and open to all ages. It features 100 local St. Louis music acts showcasing rock, hiphop, R&B, folk and electronic.

Whittaker Film Festival The 35th annual Whittaker St. Louis International Film Festival will take place from Nov. 5 to Nov. 15. The theme, “Declaration of Independents,” celebrates independent filmmaking and SLIFF’s 35-year history. Tickets will go on sale Oct. 5.

Renaissance Festival St. Louis will host its 28th annual Renaissance Festival from Sept. 12 to Oct. 25 at Rotary Park in Wentzville, MO. The Renaissance Festival will showcase medieval style food, clothing, activities and music in the fictional town of Petite Lyon, France.

Want more? Scan for online tickets for Free 4 All STL

Scan for tickets for the Whittaker Film Festival

news

Renae Yang (12), Huda Alkilani (12) and Hotaru Murashita (12) work on an assignment in class on their MacBook Neos. The Neos do not allow for additional security restrictions, they were a more budget-friendly and newest model available after the MacBook Air four-year lease ended. “We just thought it was going to be a great device for the future of the next four years of students,” Instructional Technology Coordinator Adam Stirrat said. (photography by Teo Lee)

Access Restricted New computers and restrictions affect student learning in and outside the classroom by Amelie Lock deputy editor

adue

students

returned

to school this year with new MacBooks and tighter technology restrictions. The district limited access to student’s personal Google accounts and YouTube in an effort to reduce classroom distractions and increase academic integrity. Students can no longer access personal Google accounts on school-issued computers. YouTube is also restricted unless teachers assign specific videos through Google Classroom, prompting significant backlash from students. “There was an authentic response from the technology department to a very fatigued classroom teacher who [said] that kids with untethered MacBook access and usage are very difficult to teach,” Instructional Technology Coordinator Adam Stirrat said. According to Stirrat, the district considered artificial intelligence, security and in-classroom distractions when developing the new policy. Many students have countering opinions to this, stating that the restrictions have removed vital academic uses of the computers that extend beyond the classroom. October 2026

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“It makes college applications more difficult,” Carson Lee (12) said. “I can no longer use it for a lot of the stuff I was using for extracurriculars and such.” Lee created a petition in early September calling for changes to the newly implemented policy that received more than 200 signatures. He later met with district officials and presented six recommendations, including restoring access to personal email, calendars and Google files. “Their goal behind all of this is to

“We’re always going to be flexible and try to make sure that we are not standing in the way of anything that a kid’s trying to do, especially when it comes to the senior class that’s trying to find new opportunities,” Stirrat said. “With that being said, we do have to talk about the priorities of an instructional technology department when making these decisions.” An additional login step has also been introduced this year. Students must sign in through Mosyle Manager, which doesn’t

“It’s all contained into one box. It gives us the ability to support you guys and see what everyone’s doing and seeing where problems are being had.” Adam Stirrat instructional technology coordinator

make sure that every student is getting the same educational opportunity,” Lee said. “But, that comes at the cost of engagement outside of classes.” While they are firm in their decision to block personal accounts and YouTube, the district is considering accommodations for those students who do not have access to another personal or family device at home, as an attempt to address any potential gaps in access.

work without a stable WiFi connection. Taking restrictions such as this into account, Lee said that possible accommodations do not fully address his initial concern that students must now request resources they previously had access to. “Just because we have some access at home doesn’t necessarily mean that our lives wouldn’t be a lot easier if we did have a school laptop to use for personal reasons,” Lee said.

news Beyond limiting distractions, Stirrat said the district hopes that these restrictions will aid in a larger initiative to make students’ time on school-issued devices more purposeful. Many colleges and higher education institutions are shifting to paper for instruction and testing. “Let’s make the screen time valuable,” Stirrat said. “So it’s not just letting kids be on their devices all class. Let’s make sure that it’s tied to curriculum and instruction.” The rise of artificial intelligence in the classroom was another catalyst for the district administration’s decision to restrict access on personal computers. “When kids are copying and pasting large chunks of text onto their Ladue school [account] before they turn it in, it creates a pattern of investigation that’s needed,” Stirrat said. “When you ask other school districts how they are handling this, a really good solution that we got from some other folks is that you don’t allow assignments to start on anything other than your school issued accounts.” While the new restrictions do relieve the school district of some concerns related to academic dishonesty, many students believe that their peers will quickly and easily find a way around the Securly blocked sites. On Lee’s petition site, students wrote personal notes specifically outlining the valuable online academic resources they once used which they have now been barred from accessing due to the expanded Securly blockers. “I feel like blocking YouTube doesn’t really achieve anything,” Sennai Yonas (11) said. “It doesn’t really stop me from not focusing. I just go to a different gaming website.”

Many students follow similar logic, arguing that the students who want to find a distraction will easily find it, especially when it is difficult for administrators to block every potentially distracting site. Meanwhile, students who are utilizing YouTube for productive measures believe that they have lost a valuable resource. “Our number one purpose is to take care of instructional insight 7:30 to 2:30, right?” Stirrat said. “We want to take care of that. There will be collateral dammage for kids that have circumstances. We’re going to do our best to facilitate the special circumstances group. Students have cited YouTube channels, such as Heimler’s History or the Organic Chemistry Tutor, as their primary online study resource, with channels similar to these often being suggested as resources by teachers in prior years. “Will those [students] be more engaged or is it just that the potential distraction isn’t there?” Lee said. “But a lot of the time, people just find other ones. It begs the question of whether or not you have the right to be distracted in class.” Are the new restrictions a temporary solution for a much larger problem surrounding attention span and student distraction, or are the regulations vital to assist learning? While the technology department does take student perspectives into account, sometimes traveling classroom to classroom to survey students about new major technology updates, they are sticking to the newly implemented restriction policy for the near future and upcoming years. “We’re not unhappy with what we’re seeing within the classroom, which is less distraction,” Stirrat said. P

Laptop Launch Students share their opinions on the new restrictions and how they’re affecting them

“

I can still log into Common App, but I don’t want them on my school email because that’s gonna disappear when I graduate.” Annie Levine (12)

“

Eli Pradhan (10)

You can’t use your personal account for a lot of different websites, which is pretty disappointing.”

“

I don’t like not having YouTube. A lot of my study materials are on YouTube, like Heimler’s History and the Amoeba Sisters.” Seth Fehr (11)

“

I realize that I need brain breaks because senior year [is] so much, but I can’t get them anymore.”

Ayrissa Robinson (12)

FAR LEFT Huda Alkilani (12) works on on her MacBook Neo. The MacBooks were distributed beginning two weeks before school started. “While they did downgrade the computer slightly, I think that it’s 10 times better than a Chromebook,” social studies teacher Zachary Garrison said. LEFT A MacBook Neo sign-in screen lies open, ready to log in. This year, students had to log in on Mosyle Manager. “Personal access to Gmails adds back door access for installation software that we don’t allow,” Instructional Technology Coordinator Adam Stirrat said. (photography by Teo Lee) Spread Design by Rose Kulinsky

features

Unlocking the Formula Chemistry teacher Andrew Ribbing brings hands-on learning and strong AP results to the Ladue community by Gabriella Beltranena features editor

photography by Teo Lee photography editor

n room 3328, periodic tables

double as wallpaper, flasks line the lab tables for the afternoon’s experiment and the whiteboard projects chemistry teacher Andrew Ribbing’s opening slide. The letters “words for nerds” are on display for all to see. The parody takes a fun spin on the popular New York Times game Wordle; instead of using random five-letter words, Ribbing uses chemistry terms. “I try to start off with something light,” Ribbing said. “Just conversations about our day or what’s going on in the world around us.” Ribbing’s journey into education began nearly two decades ago, driven by

“I like knowing how things work,” Ribbing said. “What’s going on with individual atoms and how they connect to allow us to see amazing things.” Ribbing first taught at Eureka High School until last year, when he made the move to Ladue. He was accompanied by fellow new science teachers Barbara Greyson and Patrick Stanley. “We’re a pretty good unit when it comes to chemistry teachers,” Ribbing said. “We talk to each other all the time. [They’re] relationships that allow you to come into a [new] place and have that good footing.” While AP Chemistry is widely regarded as one of the most demanding courses

“It’s funny when I hear that [AP Chemistry is] one of the most difficult [AP classes] out there. That’s my job to take something difficult and make it manageable and accessible, and so that’s what I try to do.” Andrew Ribbing science teacher

educators in his youth. He saw firsthand the impact great teachers can have, not just on an educational level but also on a personal level. Besides, he was never keen on the idea of sitting at a desk all day. “I had really good teachers growing up, and I also had some not so good, and both motivated me to become a teacher,” Ribbing said. “I wanted a career that would have a tremendous impact on a large amount of people.” When it came to choosing a subject to teach, science was a natural fit. Since his childhood, Ribbing has viewed chemistry as a path to unlock the world. October 2026

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high school students can take, Ribbing views that reputation as his personal challenge. His goal is simple: to make abstract concepts manageable. To do that, he uses analogies, models and a teaching environment that encourages mistakes. “I want my students to do their work in class,” Ribbing said. “I want them to fail, and I want them to fail with me in the room, so that I can help them along the way.” This approach paid off for Ribbing when summer arrived and murmurs about AP scores started. His students had achieved a 4.26 average on the exam. “I was proud of them because they put in all the work,” Ribbing said. “They bought into what I was doing in class and they really worked hard on the reviews.” For Huda Alkilani (12), the decision to enroll in AP Chemistry was strategic. Planning to major in STEM, she wanted a chance to earn college credits early. Beyond the credit, she was drawn in by the promise of hands-on lab experiments. “He provides a lot of resources to do well in class,” Alkilani said. “He puts a lot

features of effort into explaining everything that is relevant. Additionally, he isn’t a dull teacher, so students will stay entertained.” Beyond the standard scientific curriculum and AP exam prep, Ribbing extends his passion for science into after school hours, co-sponsoring the Chemistry Club alongside Greyson. Meeting twice a month on Wednesdays, the club allows for a space where students can explore topics like organic chemistry, material science and biochemistry that aren’t typically covered in regular classes. “We really want to extend the lessons and get into concepts that we don’t cover in Chemistry or AP Chemistry,” Ribbing said. “We try to take concepts that students are familiar with, but then extend them to just dive deeper.” Whether he is guiding students through complex AP exam reviews, running lab experiments in Chemistry Club or fostering a safe environment to fail and learn, Ribbing remains grounded. He does so through the relationships he builds within the school community. “I think this profession is a noble profession,” Ribbing said. “You want really good people to take care of our kids, and that again motivated me to be a teacher.” P

Spread Design by Medha Chode

Chemistry Club Students gather around the Chemistry Club poster during the activies fair in the multipurpose room Sept. 3. The club had 63 students sign up to join. (photography by Izzy Bly)

Mid-Season Updates CLASSROOM CODE GSHHAI5M

Apart from teaching four AP Chemistry classes, Andrew Ribbing also co-sponsors Chemistry Club

WHO: Andrew Ribbing and Barbara Greyson WHERE: Room 3326 WHEN: Twice a month on Wednesdays WHAT: Chemistry Club conducts various labs during their meetings. They have made both lip balms and soaps in the past. They also have competitions between the students in the club.

Students in science teacher Andrew Ribbing’s seventh hour AP Chemistry class learn about VSEPR diagrams. This being the second year Ribbing has taught this hands-on activity, the purpose is to understand how valence electrons, bonding and lone pairs affect molecule shape. “We’re building molecules to represent their threedimensional shape,” Ribbing said. “[This] leads us into whether a molecule is polar or nonpolar. It provides that image of what these molecules could possibly look like.”

features

‘God is Enough for Me’

Oluwatomisin Falako (12) volunteers within the Ethiopian and Nigerian communities in St. Louis

by Claire Yates

munity engagement through various clubs during his time at Ladue. Falako is very in tune with his photography by identity and strives to represent Sarmistha Pulagum his Nigerian side in everything he ID photography editor does. He is a part of many clubs that highlight his willingness to s he makes his way contribute to his community. through the crowd“If you were to ask somebody ed halls, friends and about me, they would probably strangers alike greet tell you that one of the first things him whether or not he knows who I mentioned is my Nigerian herthey are. This chorus of hellos is a itage,” Falako said. “It’s such a regular feature strong part of of Oluwatomime that if I sin Falako’s (12) don’t tell some“Oluwatomisin in Yoruba, body, it’s like day. He might our native language in not know all I’m not being the faces indi100% myself Nigeria, means ‘God vidually, but he with them.” is enough for me.’ All still has time Kidus Abiy my siblings, our first to greet ev(12) has known name has some sort of eryone back. Falako since he meaning.” Falako’s social came to Ladue. involvement Oluwatomisin Falako It was comfortand deep-rootsenior ing to have a ed curiosity for friend with a learning about his Nigerian culture similar cultural background to him has launched him into a wide va- because of the shared experiences riety of extracurriculars and com- from their analogous cultures. staff

Kidus Abiy (12) attends church at St. Mary and St. Gabriel Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church Sept. 13 where he participates in a Wereb, a traditional, stylized form of sacred chanting and responsive singing. Abiy has been a part of Werebs since he was about 8. “When I’m at church, I can forget about all of my stress,” Abiy said. (photo courtesy of Kidus Abiy)

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IMPACT STATS

30 people per fundraiser

$200 raised for rural Ethiopian churches

4 fundraisers per year

150 students at Rams Around the World booth

“He’s smart, funny,” Abiy said. “He’s relaxed, he’s able to adapt in certain environments. I feel like he’s kind of a mentor for me.” Falako has greatly contributed to not only his local community, but also to communities throughout Ethiopia. Through Horn of Africa, an organization at Ladue that hosts a network and community for East Africans, Falako and his friends are able to help raise money to improve churches for families in poor, rural parts of Ethiopia. “There are churches that need to be built in Ethiopia that may not have 100% of the funding they need,” Falako said. “So we were like, ‘okay, what is one way where it’s going to be a fun fundraising event and then we can give that money back to those churches?’” Amanuel Nanacha (12) plays an integral part in Falako’s life, given that the two have been friends since they were in kindergarten at Conway Elemntary. Nanacha has observed how his close friend serves as an active, hardworking member of their shared community. “[Olu’s] made me become a better person and made me want

features to be part of more of my community,” Nanacha said. Falako has always been aware of the fact that a lot of the families within the Ethiopian and Nigerian communities are intertwined and connected. He has had intimate experiences with Abiy and Nanacha’s families through the many graduations and events they host. “Before you know it, [you’ve been] to three events. Then out of nowhere, one of their family members might just grab you and be like, ‘Oh, hey, how are you? How have you been?’” Falako said. “It kind of makes you realize that you’re bigger in that space than what you believe.” The presence of God is an essential part of both Ethiopian and Nigerian cultures, and it shines through in various activities. Traditional music, food and cultural events have helped Falako and his community feel a strong sense of connection to each other and their heritage. “For me personally and for my family, [religion] is a pretty big thing,” Falako said. “I think that can look like many different t h i n g s.

Spread Design by Medha Chode

For both cultures, fasting periodically throughout the year is a big thing. You can see a lot [of] the music as well because on the Nigerian side, one of the things that defines our music is giving appreciation to God.” Rams Around the World is an annual event that takes place every spring, and is a great opportunity for different cultures to interact with each other in an immersive way through food, music and traditions. Booths from different countries are led by students and their families and allow the student body to taste cuisine from cultures all around the world. “It’s not like an official competition, but we always try to see who’s going to have the longest line and who’s going to sell out first,” Falako said. “It’s definite-

ly always a fun time when that comes around because there’s a lot of smack talking.” Falako takes pride in doing well in school as well. He has challenged himself with six AP courses throughout his high school career, but ultimately decided to change paths for his senior year. “I felt like I gave community involvement, but there’s just a part of me that felt like I wanted to do more,” Falako said. “So that was sort of like my inclination to be like, okay, instead of me taking maybe a bigger number of APs, let me see what I can do with Catalyst.” Many students know the name Oluwatomisin Falako. Even if they don’t know him personally, his name is familiar enough that people throughout the school can match it to a face. Falako can be seen supporting diverse groups of students at Ladue and participating in lots of events to connect with as many people as possible with a smile on his face. “In my mind, I just love being friendly and having a good relationship with everybody,” Falako said. “I believe in treating everybody with the proper respect they deserve.” P

in-depth

1in4

Do you participate in back-to-school shopping?

No 17.2%

students buy new clothes each season

Yes 82.8%

Rooted In Numbers

Buying Exploring the intersection between fashion and consumerism by Emery Mao

illustration by Joyce Li

in-depth editor

art editor

by Gergo Szilagyi staff

tree dons a new palette of

Student poll demonstrates the realities of consumerism at Ladue

66.2% of students buy new clothes more often than thrifting

Do you buy clothes for each school year?

Panorama surveyed 238 students Sept. 28

Yes 58.3% Do you believe you spend too much money on clothes? Yes 25%

Maybe 20.3% October 2026

Everything Nice For students like Sammy Luong (11), a fall wardrobe is more than trending brands. Luong considers fashion and clothing to be a key reason why he broke out of his shell, a defining feature of his identity at the core of who he is. “When I was younger, I was very quiet and shy,” Luong said. “Then, letting myself dabble into fashion a little bit more,

No 41.7%

No 54.7%

leaves every fall. Indecisive, they rotate through a wardrobe of colors before parting ways with each to decay through the dirt. In the same fashion, a student acquires newer, trendier clothing each autumn, relinquishing outdated looks to the back of closets and towering donation piles. In 2000, Public Interest Research Group found that 50 billion new garments were manufactured globally each year. By 2025, that number has doubled. As high school students scour the racks, fall shopping facilitates the buying and trashing of clothes in a constant cycle. As apparel moves towards cheaper and faster fashion, it becomes imperative to ask if the seasons should truly mean change.

laduetoday.com

How have trends influenced what you buy?

“

When I see other people wearing stuff that is popular, it makes me want to buy it to make me look cool.” De’Mya Miller (9)

in-depth

Into Fall

I feel like I became a little bit more open. Nnanna said. “One, I felt like I was really out of place in our I’m gonna think society, [but] I feel fashion can allow you ‘how much am I to be a stronger person. Just let yourself gonna use [this] get out.” after two weeks? This view isn’t just unique to Luong. Is this a one time In a survey of 238 Ladue students, 64.5% thing, or can I style stated that fashion was at least somewhat this with this, this, this important to their identity. Nationally, or that?’ And then, I’ll the numbers tell the same story: in 2024, usually compare it to other the National Retail Federation found that things that I’ve bought for a on average, each family planned to spend reasonable price.” over $800 on back-to-school shopping. Another popular method to keep “Everybody needs clothes,” social prices and waste low is through thrifting studies teacher Kelley Krejnik said. “And articles of clothing. ThredUp’s report when you’re an adofound 62% of Genlescent, finding your eration Z shopped “There’s a certain self-expression and second hand in 2025. your identity, it can be escapism with being able Thrifting has bea fun way to express to go online and envision come a widespread yourself.” practice of buying a different you through Many teens find second-hand goods changing how you this self-expression at a discount that’s present yourself.” through the clothing extremely common they wear. For David Meg Kaupp amongst students. Nnanna (11), there “Some of the social studies teacher are two distinct cateclothing considered gories of students: those who wear typi- fast fashion that I wear is thrifted,” Lucal, day-to-day outfits and those who en- ong said. “I don’t buy fast fashion right joy following alternative styles. off the rip because I don’t support [it] un“Some of the styles that I’ve seen is less it’s vintage stuff. I don’t support what academia, grunge, there’s a bit more of they’re doing by throwing their clothing punk,” Nnanna said. “This [style’s] really out and harming the environment.” interesting. I’ve seen a bit of streetwear. A Thrifting allows students to take forbit of Y2K [fashion].” merly cherished items of clothing and However, it can be difficult for stu- form their own memories. Many can redents to decide which pieces are worth member fastening a tie for the first time the purchase or just a trend. Nnanna fol- or shopping for the dress they wore to lows key rules to narrow it down. homecoming. For math teacher Garrett “[I have] two things I’ll do to figure White, a decade of Halloween costumes out if I really, really want a product,” holds special connections to his family.

“We used to spend a lot [on Halloween] because my wife would leave it up to me,” White said. “We would do this big family theme, and we have some hilarious pictures over the years like Harry Potter and me dressing up like Hagrid, and I’ve got the huge wig and just random stuff.” Life cannot be summed up in a simple bar graph, calculating how much was made or spent each day. There’s no monetary gain from dressing in nice clothing at school or wearing costumes each Halloween. So, why do we do it? The short answer is to satisfy the endorphins in our brain, the traditions throughout our country and the money in our pockets. “If you look at the economics, [costumes] are a terrible investment,” White said. “You’re not buying it because it’s going to go up in value or anything like that, right? You’re buying it because it’s a ritual in our country. For Halloween, we dress up and do some stupid stuff, we go out and trick or treat and do all that. [It] was fun for our family to all dress up together.”

“

If I see something on TikTok that I see is good, I’ll order it on Amazon.”

I feel like it doesn’t influence me too much, but if I see it’s cute and I don’t have it in my closet, I buy it.”

Eric Levinson (10) Spread Design by Angella Zhang

Niyumi Rajapaksha (11)

You buy certain brands because everybody’s wearing it. You want to be trendy and be like other people.”

Jonny Lim (9)

in-depth

Falling for the Price Yet with the glitz and glamor, harsh drawbacks follow. While clothing can act as a means of self expression for students, many items of clothing come with steep price tags and environmental damage, facilitating overspending and waste. “Looking at Ladue Horton Watkins High School, which I would say is definitely well above average in terms of having disposable income,” social studies teacher Meg Kaupp said. “Consumerism and the ability to make an identity through what you put on your body is pretty much a part of everyday life here.”

Over half of Ladue students stated they spent over $100 on back-to-school shopping, with answers ranging up to $10,000. Much of this money is spent buying popular supplies or outfits. With that trails the pressure to fit in and wear the right clothing. “The more that you get into clothing, there is a little bit of social pressure because you get labeled as, apparently, you’re into fashion,” Luong said. “Some people will call you out [if] you’re in your lazy fit that day.” Teachers like White notice that the standard to fit in is typically the greatest when students first begin their high school journey. The pressure to leave a good impression on fellow classmates creates a mindset of right and wrong clothing. “I think that your freshman year, it feels like that is probably the high point in a way,” White said. “There’s just so much emotion attached to starting high school, that you don’t want to go in there and do something stupid that’s going to have people laugh at you or something like that.”

This self-consciousness about how one dresses can be tied back to an early age. Appearance and peer opinions become particularly important in the early teen years, a time where both the brain and body are undergoing drastic changes that greatly shape how individuals mature. “Psychologists will talk about [how social pressure] really starts in middle school,” Kaupp said. “We’re in a very small bubble, for most people, until we get [to] the age of 11 and 12. As we start to really be able to, at least in this society, move away from our parents, and we have bikes and phones and things like that, that’s when [clothing] really becomes important.” Over the course of evolution, humans possessed a cognitive bias for quickly assessing strangers and determining friend from foe. Today, this has manifested itself into society by prompting a culture of constant comparison about one’s appearance and fashion choices. Essentially, people’s sense of fashion can be an indicator of the groups they identify with or what they might be like in general. “I can almost tell what someone’s personality is just by the way they look,” Emily Morgan (9) said. “It’s very easy for me to tell. People always like to say ‘don’t judge by the way they look,’ but it’s just human nature that you will always judge the way someone looks instantly.” While it may seem outlandish to some that such vast and pressing issues can be ignored, many people are oblivious to

Pumpkin Pie Charts Student poll statistics on consumerism five 13% N/A

24.6%

$200+ 13.6%

$0-100 34.3%

two 11.4%

four 26.5% three 37.4%

$100-200 27.6%

How much money did you spend on your homecoming outfit? October 2026

one 12.3%

laduetoday.com

On a scale from one to five, how much do you care if clothing is fast fashion or not?

in-depth the role that clothing, particularly fast Temu [and] see a nice looking shirt. ‘Oh fashion, plays in harming the enviwow, this is only a few bucks,’ they’re gonronment. Another issue is the source na think. ‘Well, it’s just me, how much that many companies get their goods could I do by myself ?’ They don’t realize from; the International Law and Poleveryone is saying that, and then it stocks icy Brief finds that of the 75 million and stocks up. Even though people might factory workers fast fashion employs, not know the very extent to which they’re less than 2% make a living wage. harming things, I do think that people “Fast consumerism also leads to are somewhat aware as well.” some pretty large problems,” Kaupp As teenagers approach adulthood, said. “We’ve got terrible sweatshops they have to start considering what indeand people working in horrible, danpendent living might look like for them gerous conditions — more importantly, livmaking terrible ing without the financial wages. [That] has support of their parents. “One of the barriers to an impact, and With this comes a level [eco-friendly shopping] then there’s the of maturity that means is the amount of time environmental recognizing what harmand energy it takes impact. If we’re ful spending habits are to research and find constantly turning and being able to spontatrustworthy guidance on over for the next neously resist them at the what you’re purchasing.” newest greatest, cost of temporary joy. what are we doing “One of the hardest Kelley Krejnik social studies teacher things to think about, with the old stuff?” Seventy-seven especially when you’re percent of Ladue High School stuyounger, is the long-term consequences dents responded that they buy new of your spending choices,” Krejnik said. clothing more often than thrifting “All of us are susceptible to a reflex or a clothing. Business Insider finds that reaction to saying, ‘Oh, I want that, and fast fashion is now a $150 billion inI want that now,’ and it gives us some dustry, responsible for 10% of the satisfaction in the moment. You may not global annual carbon footprint. understand the long-term consequences “Unfortunately, I think a lot of of choosing to spend your money on this people are somewhat aware and thing now, both for your own personal just individually cannot bring thembenefit, but also thinking [of] long-term selves to care enough,” Nnanna said. consequences for the planet [and] for “They’re gonna go onto Shein, onto your community.” P

The Feed

Three ways the internet contributes to overconsumption

Influencer Marketing: Influencers online catalyze the comparison of the life that could

be. This comparison of the influencer lifestyle captivates young people and fuels them into purchasing more, so they can mimic the life of their online celebrities. Online Shopping: Online shopping provides convenience, minimal hassle, widespread availability and removes physical visualization of the amount purchased. Online shopping amplifies these aspects by drawing on data it already has. It then promotes specialized ads onto the social media feed, enticing you to consume more.

Micro Trends: The cycle of trends has rapidly sped up, which created

micro trends. These micro trends leave consumers to keep searching for the next small thing, with little purchases compounding and feeding into overconsumption. SOURCES: ResearchGate, Stanford Institute for Economic Policy Research, The Science Survey, The Butler Collegian

always 6.5%

$600+ $400-600 6.5% 6.5%

never 18.1%

sometimes 42.7%

once 32.8%

$200-400 22.3%

$0-200 64.7%

Panorama surveyed 238 students Sept. 28

Do you rewear clothes for Halloween costumes?

Spread Design by Angella Zhang & Josi Saleeby

How much do you spend on new clothing for school?

editorial

New Technology Policy Limits Student Education

29 LADUE MEDIA EDITORS AGREE

0 LADUE MEDIA EDITORS

illustration by Emery Mao in-depth editor

adue

students

have

seen

a variety of approaches to technological management, from hanging cubbies for cell phones to blocked websites on school laptops. The bored student has often been disgruntled by the myriad of roadblocks to distraction. The most recent update on cell phone policy occurred when Missouri Gov. Mike Kehoe made this concern a priority, spurring the state legislature to ban the use of phones during any part of the school day via Senate Bill 68.

More recently, Ladue’s policy has been updated to include a number of site-specific blockages. Blocking websites on school devices is not a new tactic. For years, the technology department has relied on barring access to sites thought to contain games, streaming or otherwise inappropriate content as a technique to mitigate student distraction and fulfill safety requirements. Two highly criticized additions to the blocking list are personal email accounts and YouTube. Teachers and students alike have cited lack of access to YouTube as a major roadblock to education. Students are still able to view videos that their teachers

Editorial Note: Each editorial, Panorama selects an issue that the staff

thinks is important to address and expresses a view that belongs to the majority of the editorial board. Panorama welcomes the opinions of its readers and encourages letters to the editors. Panorama reserves the right to revise submissions for length so long as original intent remains unaltered. October 2026

laduetoday.com

DISAGREE

have downloaded and posted on Google Classroom. However, links and downloads are not always functional and can often stall classes when issues arise. Furthermore, students are no longer able to access unassigned videos that still contain educational content, such as AP unit review videos or content from creators like The Organic Chemistry Tutor which contain helpful walkthroughs for equations used in math and science classes. Lack of access to personal email addresses poses a similar challenge: students who have started to write college application materials on personal accounts can no longer access these documents on their Something to Add?

Scan here for more on letters to the editor, guest essays, submitting corrections and the full editorial policy.

editorial school devices. Countless students have relied on school computers for tasks like resume writing, job applications, sharing documents for extracurriculars and accessing personal calendars. Though the technology office has begun taking steps to mitigate the impacts of new policies like the email ban, many students are still being left without access to the technology that is crucial to their ability to thrive. While in these instances, specific sites were sought out and blocked, the primary method used to limit access to sites is keyword blocking. For this method, software scans websites for specific words, such as “game” and blocks access to those sites. This means students are unable to access sites bearing any reference to drugs, gambling or sexual material, regardless of the educational impact or intent. Students were unable to access Ladue Media’s news website, LadueToday.com, for five days due to an automated keyword ban. It’s no doubt that the technological administrators are well-intended in their use of these blockages — technology can act as a distraction just as much as it can act as a tool, and it’s the job of the technology department to mitigate the impact of the former. The problem is that these tools are largely ineffective. According to a Panorama survey conducted Sept. 28 with 229 respondents, 60% of students have themselves accessed or witnessed a peer access prohibited sites on a school device. This considered, student access isn’t being traded for in-school focus — it’s being thrown away without cause. The philosophy at the foundation of these policies raises a quandary. High school students are given a significant amount of independence, the proclaimed purpose of which is to prepare them for adulthood. Through enhanced freedom, teenagers are taught personal accountability. However, the excessive

restriction stemming from the extensive list of blockages fails to allow students to learn these lessons for themselves. When students have access to sites like YouTube, the expectation is that they make choices which benefit their education. It’s understood that when students utilize access irresponsibly, they face natural consequences. A student who wastes class time watching silly videos will have more work to do at home — an example of how decisions made now impact one’s situation later. With these decisions about what and what not to do being made for them, however, students are losing an important opportunity to learn and grow.

21% of students don’t have access to any nonschool laptop Panorama surveyed 238 students Sept. 28

A crucial problem with these policies lies in the resulting inequity. For many students, site blockages are at best a minor inconvenience. Students who have access to personal computers can simply complete college applications, watch YouTube videos, complete research for projects and the like when they get home. For some, however, the impact is much more severe: according to the same Panorama survey, 42% of students do not have access to a strictly personal computer, meaning one that only they use. Almost half of the students who didn’t have access to a fully personal computer

Student Takes

“

I think it’s stupid to ban YouTube specifically because it’s such a useful study tool, and teachers require it sometimes for lessons.”

“

Natey Ainalem (10)

Spread Design by Adelaide Flintrop

also didn’t have access to one that they shared with their family. Prior to the new policy, these students relied on access to school-provided devices. Now, they have no means to carry out the same tasks as those with personal computers. This combination of inequity and inconvenience has sparked both worry and action within students. Carson Lee (12) has started a petition urging the technology department to respond to student feedback and restore access to personal email accounts. On the petition’s site, Lee points out a gap between the proclaimed philosophy of the technology department, which states that all technology should work to support learning, and what they’re actually doing, which hinders it. The initiative has garnered significant student support, with the petition gathering more than 200 student signatures since it was published. In light of potential issues, the technology department is exploring the possibility of allowing some students access to personal emails on their school devices. However, it’s important to consider that the process required to enact these exceptions could lead to inefficacy. Deciding which students really “need” that expansion of access and which just want it is a complex endeavor with lots of room for error — mistakes that would come at the expense of students’ education. No matter how it’s spun, these policies severely limit students, impacting some more than others. While the hindrances for some students span the school day, the constraints placed on others don’t end when the bell rings. This is a situation which undeniably poses major disadvantages to students with limited access to technology. It’s imperative that the technology department doesn’t just hear student-raised issues when making policies — but that they act on them. P

Students express their feelings about updated technology policies

I don’t like [it] because you can’t access your home email. They blocked YouTube. So, they’re basically just a useless brick of Charlie Fan (10) metal now.”

“

In a way, I feel like it’s necessary, but a little too strict. You can’t access some things that we need to use for school and that’s really Catly Vuong (9) hard.”

opinions

Opinions to Hear Hot Takes

Students give their hottest takes

“

I think that gaming computers are better than consoles just because of the ecosystem.”

I like pickles on pizza because I think that pizza and pickles just go well together.”

Lachlan Woodcock (12)

COLD

Audrey Crossett (10)

HOT

COLD

“

I think that if you are friends with somebody, you should be willing to share food with them.”

“I think there should not be mustard on hotdogs because the weird vinegar taste ruins the hotdog.”

Tariq Spencer (10)

Claire Kim (10)

COLD

HOT

COLD

Student Views At a fast-casual restaurant or coffee shop, how much do you typically tip? 23.5% No tip

1.4% More than 20%

11.5% 1-5%

10.1% 16-20% 15.2% 11-15%

Panorama surveyed 238 students Sept. 28

October 2026

laduetoday.com

HOT

Statistics on how Ladue students feel about tipping culture

At a sit-down or nicer restaurant, how much do you typically tip?

23% Depends

15.2% 6-10%

HOT

If you work at a job that receives tips, how critical are Not tips to your overall income? critical

13.9% 13.9%

6.9% 6-10%

23.4% 11-15%

37.6% 16-20%

29.2% 19.4%

3.7% 1-5%

17.9% Depends

3.7% No tip

6.9% More than 20% 30

23.6% 25

Very critical

opinions

On Expressions of Care by Jeff Miller social studies teacher

*Guest Column

Illustration by L.S.

Senior Advice

Seniors offer advice to underclassmen

“The best thing I learned was forgive yourself because you are bound to make a mistake, so if you freak out over missing some small thing, it’s going to end up harming you. It’s tough to make mistakes, but next time you have the opportunity you can fix it.”

Felix Zhang (12) “My advice is to finish your ACT and SAT before you enter your senior year that way you don’t have to worry about it in the fall when you’re applying to college.”

Violet Coughlin (12)

“Never be afraid to be yourself and express who you are. Some people can be judgmental and they side eye anyone who’s different, but honestly, it’s so much easier when you don’t have anyone judging you.”

Kyra Siegel (12) “Make sure you balance having fun with actually getting your work done, because the first semester of senior year matters.”

Reese Dickhaus (12)

“Work hard, play hard.”

“Being in a sport gives you automatic community, which gives you a lot of new friends.”

Jonah Alper (12)

Ellie Goebel (12)

Spread Design by Loukya Gillella

MY EDUCATIONAL PHIlosophy lives on the wall behind my desk in odd quotes from odd, but successful people people. They are not educators in the strict sense, we have instead chosen the word “entertainer” to describe them. Truth be told, I find their wisdom to be more informative than most educational theorists. At the heart of learning is connection, and these individuals are noted for their ability to make a connection with their audiences. In the final analysis, I find myself in a pretty similar position on a daily basis. Of these quotes on the board, the one that is probably most central to my role as a teacher is from Fred Rogers, child psychologist and star of the old PBS series “Mr. Roger’s Neighborhood”. When talking about the theory behind his show, Mr. Rogers once said that his goal in every episode was to provide an “expression of care” to each child who turned in. To say I attempt to provide an expression of care, but for high schoolers instead of preschoolers, is of course at once oversimplified and completely on the nose. Adapting such a simplistic principle to day to day life requires reflection and effort. It starts when I spend hours studying and crafting lessons that are designed to provide authentic learning from a discipline that helps me access important truths of being human, and ends when I choose not to take offense that my captive teenage audience does not care about any of them. Neither one of those expressions of care come without work or sacrifice. P

opinions

Guilt Tipping The tipping culture in the United States must be reworked to protect both customers and workers by Eric Tang staff

illustration by Joyce Li art editor

igh menu prices at restau-

rants are stressful enough, but the real shock comes at the end, when a 25% premium gets tacked onto the already painful bill. Yet despite the cost, we pull out our wallets and pay it anyway — unknowingly supporting a toxic tipping culture that exploits the customers who pay for it and shortchanges the workers who rely on it. After all, it’s what we were taught to do and what we have been doing for years. Tipping, a voluntary choice customers can make, has quickly grown into an expectation. Since the pandemic, gratuities have not only increased in amount, but have also crept into services that previously did not require them, including fast-food restaurants, grocery stores and even self-checkout stations. This phenomenon, commonly called “tipflation,” is endemic within our country. According to a Pew Research report, roughly 72% of U.S. adults believe tipping is more expected today than pre-pandemic times. For consumers, a main issue with tipping arises with a lack of transparency in pricing. When someone steps up to the counter to pay for a $5 drink, they expect

to pay the $5 dollars plus the standard Advisor shows that nearly 65% of people sales tax. However, modern software now tip at least 11% more when they tip using takes advantage of human psychology to the digital screen compared to cash. So urge customers to pay more. This growth take a second to think: are people really in tipping has been weaponized into a tipping out of generosity or are they just tool that customers in the U.S. know all afraid of the guilt and embarrassment? too well: the digital tipping screen. While customers complain about inInnocent at first glance, this simplistic sane prices, more victims stand on the screen transforms an everyday transac- other side of the counter. Supporters of tion into an intense standoff. Once the tipping argue how tips allow workers to employee at the obtain additional amounts counter swivels on top of their regular flat around the screen, wage. In reality, tipping customers are sudcreates an extremely unpredenly met with the dictable and unstable syscashier’s unwavtem that leaves these workering gaze and a ers extremely vulnerable. layout of pre-seFirstly, a variable wage of employed students say lected tip amounts, creates income instability ranging from 15% tips are critical to their overall for employees. It’s difficult income to even a towering to plan out and comfortably 35%. These paybudget weekly expenses Panorama surveyed ment systems have when the money employ238 students Sept. 28 implemented an ees receive literally depends anchor bias: cuson the weather, day of the tomers will naturally gravitate towards week, time of day and the mood of the the middle option to avoid looking cheap, person who walks through the door. A which is why many establishments set busy Saturday evening shift might mean them at a staggering 20% or 25%. On the worker walks away with a mountain top of that, opting out of tipping requires of tips, while a slow and rainy Tuesday the deliberate press of the “No Tip” but- morning shift might mean the worker ton directly in front of the worker, which walks away with practically nothing. may appear as an explicit critique of To add insult to injury, this unpredictthe service. This is a relatively effective ability is further enforced by law. With method, as a survey conducted by Forbes amendments to the Fair Labor Standards

% 43

Why do you tip at a restaurant?

“

I know [workers] aren’t paid enough and they make most of their money from tips. I’m just trying to help out any way I can.” Ayden Huang (11)

October 2026

laduetoday.com

“

I tip waiters because [I] want to thank them for their service and the hard work they put in.”

Nia Patel (9)

My tipping is motivated by a genuine desire to help the [worker]. We [have] a lot of very hardworking people in St. Louis.”

Bill Napier (12)

opinions Act in 1996, minimum wage for tipped workers was lowered to a minuscule $2.13 an hour. In practice, this system exposes a major loophole. While tipped workers are legally guaranteed the standard $7.25 minimum wage either way, the current system allows corporations to rely on customer gratuities to cover a majority of the bill. By shifting this financial burden onto the customer, businesses can keep their base wages absurdly low. Secondly, the tipping system is inherently discriminatory and biased. Decades of studies have shown how tipping amounts are influenced by factors including race, age, gender and other aspects of physical appearance. By linking an employee’s wage to their identity, they are oftentimes forced to endure uncomfortable situations and tolerate inappropriate behavior from customers in order to acquire an adequate paycheck. As tipflation rises throughout the country, consumer resistance pushes in the other direction. Frustrated customers experiencing “tip fatigue” are starting to rebel, with more people choosing to hit “No Tip” or scale back on percentages. This resistance is changing how people interact with everyday businesses. Many customers have started paying with cash again just to avoid the awkward interaction with the worker and tipping screen entirely. Others are effectively boycotting locations with counter service altogether, preferring to cook at home rather than face the deep stare-down at the register. The struggle between the customers and businesses, once again, leaves workers caught in the crossfire. When customers choose to fight against systemic tipping, businesses rarely lose much as they still receive full price for their menu items. The employee, meanwhile, takes the brunt of the damage. This creates a relationship where employees view customers as stingy, customers view employees as entitled and the employer gets away scot-free. Not only is the tipping system in the U.S. annoying, it is simply

Spread Design by Sophie Cowlen

not necessary. Around the world, there are dozens of countries who are able to successfully operate businesses without a complete reliance on tips. Tips in East Asian countries such as Japan and South Korea are rarely even accepted and are sometimes viewed as insulting or confusing. Various European countries including Germany, France and Switzerland will frequently have pre-included service charges on their menus, allowing for complete transparency towards customers and a stable income for employees. Progressive policy changes within the U.S. continue to prove that eliminating our dependence on tipping is a viable strategy. Seven states — including California, Minnesota and Washington — have completely outlawed the subminimum wage tip credit, requiring employers to pay the full base minimum wage before tips are included. By ensuring employees receive guaranteed and reliable compensation regardless of customer gratuities, these states take a step in the right direction for policy reform. It’s clear that tipping in the U.S. has reached a complete breaking point. What initially began as a genuine way to show appreciation for service has turned into a guilt-driven system that even allows employers to pay employees unfair wages. Until federal laws change something about this outdated $2.13 subminimum wage and convince corporations to operate with complete price transparency, the parties on each side of the counter will remain cornered. If there’s a time to get rid of the current digital tipping screen, put an end to the psychological manipulation and pay workers what they are truly owed, that time is right now. P

Do you support the current tipping system and culture in the U.S.?

25%

44.7%

30.3% = No

= Yes

= I don’t know

How often do you leave a tip because of social pressure rather than good service?

17.9%

32.6%

16.1%

25.4%

= Always

= Often

= Rarely

= Never

= Sometimes Panorama surveyed 238 students Sept. 28

opinions

Pump the Brakes American car culture is getting out of hand by Maggie Luzecky

a car, but there’s another option, one even more important illustration by Joyce Li to ending the craze: walking. Walkability, or the ability to art editor walk to services and amenities in 30 minutes or less, is the key he soft hum of an en gine, the angry blare of a to ending car dependency. But horn and the choking smell it’s only present in big cities like of exhaust fill the air. An New York, with zoning laws making uncountable amount of cars are shoved it near impossible for smaller cities to together on the road, each trying to out- gain the same walkable atmosphere. Zoning laws were created back in maneuver each other to get to wherever they need to be. This is rush hour on the 1916 to make building and designing average highway in St. Louis, clogged new cities easier. By sectioning housing with cars and furious people trying to get and workspaces into neat little boxes, similar places are close to one another. somewhere they’re now late for. Highways across America deal with But now, people are stuck with no grothis horrible traffic daily, some even hour- cery stores or restaurants within comfortable walking distance. ly. But what if the According to highway wasn’t there? Walkscore, the St. What if people took “Everything has been Louis area as a whole the train and subway, hyperindustrialized to the has a low walkscore walked, biked or took point where they can’t of 66. Ladue is at an the bus instead? Well, fit anything else on the absolutely abysmal the reason no one is walkscore of nine, using any of those ground.” and Olivette isn’t transportation opLyn Vanderhoef much better at a meations is simple: Amerjunior ger 26. Walkscore ican car culture. grades are based on Car culture is the societal norm that cars should be used for the ability to walk to any restaurants or all transportation needs, and it has exist- businesses from houses or apartments in ed for decades, since at least 1956. But 30 minutes or less, and the fact that the St. Louis area doesn’t even pull a tiny litthis car craze is definitely not deserved. According to the U.S. Department of tle C is a major wake-up call. The low walkability in Ladue feels like Transportation, cars kill around 40,000 people per year in America and account a crisis, yet absolutely nothing is being for more than half of U.S. carbon emis- done to stop it. If we allow parks, homes sions. But while the average price of a and restaurants to be closer to one anothnew car continues to grow past $50,000, er, and perhaps even make roads more it seems like America is becoming more walkable, we can stop the car craziness that has taken over America’s roads. and more dependent on them. So, how can car culture possibly be Completely ending car culture won’t be stopped? Public transportation may feel easy, but it’s time to put up a stop sign like the only option other than driving because we need to pump the brakes. P staff

October 2026

laduetoday.com

How often are you in a car?

0.5% 11%

= Never = Weekly = 5+ times per day

17.5% 71%

= 2-3 times per day

Panorama surveyed 238 students Sept. 28

% 89 % 2.5 of Ladue students mainly travel by car

of Americans walk to work

% 80 of St. Louis households own a car

% 93 of the U.S. Department of Transportation’s budget is spent on highways and roads

SOURCES: National League of Bicyclists, Think Health St. Louis, U.S. Department of Transportation

arts & entertainment

‘True’ Crime

True crime culture turns Lindsay Clancy trial into entertainment for online audiences by Sasha Prasad staff

illustration by Joyce Li art editor

utside of the Plym-

outh County Courthouse, reporters huddled under umbrellas for six days, waiting on word from a deadlocked jury. Inside, defense attorney Kevin Reddington carried letters addressed to his client, Lindsay Clancy, from admirers “all over the world.” After 36 hours of deliberation, Judge William Sullivan declared a mistrial Sept. 4. The case of the mother accused of strangling her three children in January 2023 remains unresolved. Somewhere between the lines of spreading awareness and spectacle, three children’s deaths became a storyline with fans. What has unraveled over the past several weeks is its own plethora of repeated lies and underlying issues. Before the jury deadlocked, the case became entertainment rather than tragedy: dissecting 911 calls, social media comments debating Clancy’s psychiatric history, supporters outside the court with signs. Spread Design by Maggie Luzecky

That shift tracks with a genre that has become one of American media’s most rampant products: the true crime boom of the past decade. Born of popular podcasts like Stephanie Soo’s “Rotten Mango” and amplified by documentaries and short-form videos, this boom has trained audiences to process death with fiction-like narratives. The Clancy trial, with its gut-wrenching topic of alleged postpartum psychosis and a devastating 911 call, offered the kind of morally ambiguous material that performs well in that industry. Nowhere has this dynamic played out more than on TikTok, where the Clancy case split into two devoted fandoms, each convinced that the other was falling for internet propaganda. Self-styled mental health “experts” built large followings diagnosing a woman that they never met, treating each court proceeding like an exciting new episode, some later admitting they couldn’t substantiate their claims. A TikTok user was ultimately blocked by the judge from testifying at trial, a sign of how throroughly the users had inserted themselves into the proceedings. Sasha Prasad

True Crime Podcasts

Crime Junkie

33M

monthly listeners

Morbid

12M

monthly listeners

Rotten Mango

1.4M

monthly listeners

Casefile

800K

monthly listeners SOURCE: Spotify

The platform’s most persisten debate sidesteps the legal question at hand entirely. Clancy has never disputed causing her children’s deaths; her plea is not guilty by reason of lack of criminal responsibility, meaning the case hinges on whether postpartum psychosis left her unable to understand her actions, not on who did it. That distinction has done little to slow the theory that her husband, Patrick Clancy, was actually responsible, which had grown prominent enough that Patrick’s attorney publicly warned continued claims could invite defamation action. Layered alongside is the “Same, Lindsay” trend, in which women record themselves rocking their own children while reciting lines from Clancy’s diary entries. Trials are public for a reason, and issues raised in this case have surfaced, such as perinatal mood disorders and adequacy of psychiatric oversight for mothers. But when a case becomes content, incentives shift from accuracy toward what grabs viewers attention. Whatever the outcome, questions raised by the case’s media treatment will outlast the verdict. P

arts & entertainment

In the Spotlight The walls of MOTW Coffee & Pastries contain murals and pieces of artwork with menu items and motifs of Muslim culture. The cafe has found a way to integrate itself into the Delmar Loop by contributing to the location’s vibrant art scene. (photography by Keller Strauss)

STL Events Harvest Festival Tower Grove Park will be hosting the annual Harvest Festival Oct. 18 from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.. You can take time to browse the works of local artists and stop at the food truck alley for a bite to eat. Additionally, various bands will perform live music on stage. This single-day event is a great opportunity to get into the fall spirit this year.

Halloween Walk To celebrate an early Halloween, stop by the Halloween Walk in Downtown Kirkwood Oct. 29 from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m.. Local businesses, such as Pottery Hollow and Racanelli’s Pizza, as well as Kirkwood City Hall, will be handing out candy for trick-or-treaters. This community-wide event is perfect for children and families.

Drop Soda Market One of St. Louis’s beloved vintage markets, Drop Soda Market, is collaborating with Living Room, a family-owned cafe in Maplewood. From 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., vendors will sell vintage clothes with hot drinks and delicious pastries Oct. 31. There isn’t a better way to get ready for Halloween night than shopping with a cup of coffee.

MENU FAVORITES

October 2026

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Coffee & Pastries New cafe brings Muslim culture to the Delmar Loop by Cami Welsh

YEMENI CHAI

REFRESHER

PASTRIES

SOURCE: Drop Soda Market

MOTW

arts & entertainment editor

delmar

loop

one of the most popular cultural hotspots of St. Louis. To join in on the variety, MOTW Coffee and Pastries is one of the latest spots to add a unique and fresh flair. As soon as I walked in, the rich smells of Yemeni tea being brewed gave a good impression. The cafe provides a spacious area where the walls are filled with artwork and motifs of Middle Eastern architecture. Even with the overall modern design, which tends to have an off-putting corporate feel, MOTW’s atmosphere manages to remain warm and inviting. Customers were taking time to catch up with friends and get work done on their laptops instead of hurrying off with a to-go cup.

The menu included a range of miniature pastries inspired by Middle Eastern flavors. The date cookie, baklava and burma were each smaller than the palm of a hand, and none of them were overwhelmingly sugary. Some may prefer their plates filled to the brim with their order, but MOTW perfectly cultivated a way of serving food as a humble compliment to their rich chai and coffee, maintaining a balance. There’s nothing I hate more than being weighed down by too much decadence. The strawberry jasmine refresher was equally delicious. Despite its vibrant pink color, there was no sickening artificial flavor like the kind you’d be charged for at a fast food drive-thru. It was slightly sweet and paired well with the fresh-tasting jasmine. Judging by this drink alone, the variety of other refreshers ranging from hibiscus to coconut are trustworthy, too. As a business, MOTW isn’t just about coffee; it’s a way of sharing a culture that has endured high amounts of discrimination. Behind every cup of coffee, there’s a statement of shared humanity, which is made from the moment you try a palate different from your own. P

arts & entertainment Strolling Strings members play at the ResearchED conference. The members learned pieces individually before rehearsing together. (photo courtesy of Sarah Heuermann)

Strolling Strings Strolling Strings had their third event of the school year giving a performance at the ResearchED conference Sept. 26. The club’s sponsor, Sarah Heuermann, had the group play pieces ranging from “Be Our Guest” to the “Sleeping Beauty Waltz” as the conference took place. The players practiced individually before rehearsing together.

Upcoming Movies

Bye or Buy?

The most anticipated movies to look out for

Review of the Starbucks fall menu

You Can See Everything

Worth the Money

Nathan Fielder takes a sharp turn away from his typical comedic presence to direct a disturbing documentary. He conducts daylong interviews with Elizabeth Holmes to capture the weeks before she would go to federal prison for defrauding investors with her health tech company, Theranos.

MINI APPLE PIE It may look like it’s been flattened on the roadside, but the sweet apple flavor makes me wish for a version 10 times larger.

PUMPKIN SPICE LATTE Order it hot or cold, it will always encapsulate everything that is loveable about fall. No modifications are needed for this staple.

Other Mommy “Other Mommy” follows the survival of a young girl who is terrorized by an entity that poses as her mother. Inspired by the 2024 horror novel “Incidents Around the House” by John Malerman, it’s a perfect horror movie to watch in theaters for the weeks leading up to Halloween.

Sense and Sensibility

SOURCE: IMDb

Not Worth the Money PUMPKIN COLD BREW I hoped the cold brew aspect of this drink would create a stronger coffee flavor, but the cold foam was overpowering.

The fourth adaptation of Jane Austen’s novel “Sense and Sensibility” has already been released in the United Kingdom, but is coming to American theaters this October. Daisy Edgar-Jones is starring as the protagonist, Elinor Dashwood, in this beloved period romance.

Artist Feature

Questions:

Elizabeth Fries (11) is elected State Thespian Officer to represent Ladue’s theater

Answers:

Do you have any nerves about your new role?

I think now, being elected, I’m less nervous than I was before.

How did you feel when you got elected as state officer?

It was really cool to see something I was working on for so long pay off and end up being that lucky.

What are your plans as state officer?

I feel like Ladue does a good job at having troupe events, encouraging unity and doing activities within our group.

Spread Design by Cami Welsh

MINI PUMPKIN PIE It came cold and had a texture comparable to wax. Despite being pre-prepared, it almost seemed underbaked.

arts & entertainment

Collectible figures rise in popularity as growing consumerism and glamorization follows Through something as simple as size, Smiskis and Sonny Angels have perfected this decorativeness illustration by that we chase after. Their miniaFranco Van Well tureness gives them an unmatched staff versatility. You can complain about Stanley cups being bulky and disabubus have been collecting dust and Rhode ruptive, but these collectibles can phone cases have al- add a touch of charm to every little ready been tossed to the corner and ledge that you can find. Another feature that seems to landfills, but Smiskis and Sonny Angels are still stubbornly latched have the world hooked is the fact that there will on to everyone’s always be one phone case and more special rear view mirror. edition that you At first, I ashave yet to atsumed they were tain. Once you a microtrend that feel the rush of would hold our adrenaline from bank accounts of students collect Smiskis popping open captive for a few Panorama surveyed your first surprise months tops. But, 238 students Sept. 28 box, you’re comthese dolls – or figpelled to order urines – or whatever you’d like to call them have ten more. You’re overtaken by the urgent need for the Sonny Anshown remarkable persistence. Our generation has a habit of gel with the strawberry hat or the beautifying the mundane. During Smiski carrying the ladder. There’s quarantine, we painted our bed- something addictive about being room light switches and covered lucky enough to receive whichever our walls in fake vines. We’ve be- figurine you were hoping for. The dazzled our products with rhine- sheer determination to build an arstones and bought aesthetically ap- senal of them is equally addictive. pealing water bottles to glamorize For some dedicated collectors, it’s grown into an actual hobby. P something as simple as hydration. by Cami Welsh

arts & entertainment editor

BONUS:

We hid three Smiskis in other pages. Can you find them all?

% 11.5

Why should people get Smiskis?

“

I think people should get them because they could tie into their interests of different Smiskis.”

June Macalino (9) October 2026

laduetoday.com

“

If you want to accessorize your personal belongings and possessions, they have a whole little collection.”

“

Because it’s good for your mental health to have things that you like to collect.”

Mirabelle Avgust (11)

Alla Hocking (12)

health & sports

HydrationStation Healthier hydration options for athletes are competing with commercial sports drinks

by Kellie Ji staff

illustration by Joyce Li art editor

What is your

favorite

Tart Cherry Juice Proven to be an effective pre-recovery drink, tart cherry juice has both antioxidants and anti-inflammatory effects. If consumed in the days before, the juice has been shown to help muscle function recover faster after exercise.

“

way to hydrate?

My favorite way to hydrate is drinking water because it is easily accessible in different places, such as public or school Kaitlyn Chin (9) water fountains.” Cross Country

Coconut Water Coconut water can replenish electrolytes in a similar manner to a commercial sports drink. This is due to the larger variety of electrolytes it contains. However, it isn’t significantly more hydrating than just water.

“

Chocolate Milk With a convenient carbohydrate to protein ratio for maximum recovery, low-fat chocolate milk can be just as effective as commercial recovery drinks. It also fits other criteria needed for muscle repair, especially in endurance exercise.

Joanna Yuan (9) Volleyball

“

water

Water

My favorite way to hydrate is probably drinking water with a flavoring added like pineapple or watermelon.” Brady Earnhart (11) Lacrosse

Although sports drinks and their alternatives are wonderful for exercise, plain water is often the best way to hydrate. It’s essential for survival, powering basic bodily functions down to SOURCES: the cellular level, and is great to be CDC, consumed during a workout. Mayo Clinic, NIH

Sip On This

70.9%

Other

Of students prioritize hydration while exercising

Spread Design by Franco Van Well

What type of drinks do students prefer? 7.3%

Panorama surveyed 238 students Sept. 28

Kellie Ji

5.9% Juice

7.6%

Sports

My favorite way to hydrate is Gatorade. The broad flavors and electrolytes are great to stay up and excercising.”

55.9% Water

13.6%

How hydrated are students on a daily basis? 5.5%

Overly

5.9%

Not at All

Caffeine

9.7%

Energy

29.7%

Properly

35.6%

23.7%

Slightly

Moderately

health & sports

Blue Crew cheers at the front of the student section in Ladue’s “War on Warson” game Aug. 28. Ladue played MICDS this game, winning 38-24. “[Blue Crew is] a good way to connect with others and show my support for our friends and the other students in our school,” Bodie Buxner (12) said. “We’re all one big community. It means a lot to see people come out and cheer for each other.” (photography by Beau Willis)

Raising Spirits Blue Crew strives to be more inclusive while boosting school pride during fall sporting events by Irene Murphy health & sports editor

aiting in the tun-

nel, four Blue Crew members hoist flags above their heads, ready for their signal to race across the field and kick off Friday Night Lights. Bright white lights illuminate the sky as student laughter and cheers sing out from the bleachers. Despite it being Blue Crew’s fourth sporting event of the night, their spirits are still high to excite fans. Blue Crew consists of four selected seniors who aim to raise school spirit for all sports. This year’s members include Avery Murray (12), Olivia Wallace (12), Bodie Buxner (12) and Austin Blake (12). To become a part of Blue Crew, students had to reach out to sponsor Mark McCarthy. Prospective students October 2026

laduetoday.com

would get recommended by the past year’s members, after which the official Blue Crew is decided and announced.

“I think someone that makes a good Blue Crew leader is someone who’s not afraid to get laughed at, or not afraid to be [their] full, authentic, loud, fun self. You have to be able to scream and dress crazy and accept standing out.” Avery Murray senior

“I love being able to make an impact,” Murray said. “I love being able to create a fun experience for people. I want

people to want to come to the games and leave being like, ‘That was so fun.’” To build energy in the stands, members need to maintain confidence and be enthusiastic when leading chants. “[We are] definitely outgoing and not afraid to be embarrassed,” Buxner said. “Standing in front of a bunch of people at one time, yelling [and] making a fool of yourself is a part of [Blue Crew].” This year, the members are hoping to guide Blue Crew in a more all-encompassing direction. “I wanted to join Blue Crew because I really wanted to get people involved in all the games, more than just football and soccer, the more popular ones,” Wallace said. “I want to bring light to the other sports too.” While the largest part of the job involves energizing student sections, Blue Crew also has other duties.

health & sports “I think a lot of people on the outside of Blue Crew don’t understand how much responsibility it is,” Murray said. “It’s not about just going to games and making social media [posts]. It’s making sure you’re going all out for every job that you have.” A major part of their role is planning themes for football games. They want the theme to be creative, while also something students will enjoy dressing up for. “We kind of try to soft launch [the themes] by telling our friends and letting word of mouth get out,” Blake said. “Then, if people don’t like the theme, we adjust from there.” Hyping up the crowd has larger impacts as well. Blue Crew has found that it can even inspire athletes on the field.

“When the athletes can hear us cheering for them, it can motivate them because they know all their friends and family have their backs,” Wallace said. “If we’re not focused on the game or quiet and just sitting down, it will discourage them.” This year, Blue Crew has been making an effort to bring participation to sports outside of football. “[Blue Crew has] definitely helped a lot at the home games,” varsity boys soccer captain Jared Snyder (12) said. “The private schools have really big crowds, so having our own crowd helps to cancel out their crowd and add to the environment and energy in the game.” Being a member of Blue Crew also comes with its difficulties. It can be hard

to maintain the excitement of large groups of teenagers during long games. “The newer students don’t really know [the chants] or they’ll feel embarrassed,” Murray said. “That’s difficult because we don’t want them to feel left out. We try to get them on their feet and repeat after us.” This year’s Blue Crew members hope to leave a lasting legacy. By bringing excitement to athletic events, they are anticipating the enthusiasm will be passed down by other students. “I hope we set an example of what a good Blue Crew should look like and for student sections on showing up and being hype,” Buxner said. “Participating and being loud and obnoxious does not make you uncool. Being involved is cool.” P

FAR LEFT Avery Murray (12) rings a cowbell at Ladue’s game against Riverview Gardens, wearing U.S.A. theme. Ladue won 49-0. “We try to pick the themes that will be fun to participate in and also something creative,” Murray said. (photography by Beau Willis) LEFT Blue Crew cheers on football in the homecoming game Sept. 18, decked out in neon theme. Ladue played Fox this game, winning 27-14. “This year we’re trying to be more unique with the themes,” Olivia Wallace (12) said. “We’re trying to find themes that haven’t been done yet, or themes that people will actually like to dress up for, and have a lot of fun.” (photography by Beau Willis) Blue Crew hoists flags in preparation for Ladue’s home-opener football game Aug. 28 against MICDS. Prior to every game, Blue Crew runs the flags across the field with the football team. “We are responsible for being the most on theme,” Austin Blake (12) said. “We designate the student section, so we to get to games early to make sure no one else is sitting in the student section. [We] keep everyone hype throughout the game [and] produce content for our Instagram. We moderate the Instagram because people request we share posts.” (photography by Aiyana Ungacta) Spread Design by Irene Murphy

health & sports

Sports in Review Arlo Ziolkowski (12) competes in the 100 yard freestyle at the Lindbergh Invitational. He placed seventh against 41 other swimmers. “So far, the meet has been going very mediocre,” Ziolkowski said. “I gave it my all and I had a great relay swim.” (photography by Kevin Wu)

Under the Surface Boys swim and dive captains reflect on changes in the season

by Arin Navjith staff

he varsity boys swim

season started with a 4-2 record in meets and placed third at both the Ladue and Lindburgh Invitationals. Last year, a monumental 8-2 run was reached. A major driver of the difference in record is a changing roster. Senior co-captains Arlo Ziolkowski (12) and Frank Tian (12) lead the team, balancing high expectations and the gap left by seniors. The team’s early successes include tri meet sweeps against Eureka, McCluer North, MICDS and CBC. “The meet went well,” Ziolkowski said. “Many swimmers dropped time and had really strong swims. We placed in third, which is solid.” Losing seniors doesn’t mean empty spots on the roster, but it changes who swims each event. October 2026

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Season Updates Cross Country The varsity boys cross country team has had several meets and are preparing for the Suburban Conference Championship, which will be Oct. 17 at McNair Park. The team has a large number of freshmen this year, doubling their numbers from last year.

Football

“The 500 [freestyle] has been our weakest event this year because we lost a sophomore,” Ziolkowski said. “For the other events like the 100 breaststroke, we’ve had a freshman fill in for a lost senior.” Even with lineup changes, Ziolkowski sees promise in the team. “This season has been spectacular so far,” Ziolkowski said. “We’ve got a great group with lots of talent.” Ziolkowski is still battling shoulder pain from an injury last year. “My shoulder issues have mostly affected my events, like the 400 freestyle relay,” Ziolkowski said. Looking forward in the season, the team will compete at the Suburban Conference Championship Oct. 27-28, where Ziolkowski is still battling a shoulder injury on and off from last year. “I’m looking forward to swimming at state and getting a chance at breaking the 200 medley relay record,” Ziolkowski said. After four years with the team, Tian hopes to make the most of his final season with the team. “I’m looking forward to bonding more with my teammates, especially since it’s my last year as a senior.” Tian said. “We’re looking forward to succeeding more together in future meets.” P

“

Overall, my swimming performance has actually improved compared to last year, but the shoulder definitely holds me back near the end of meets.”

Arlo Ziolkowski senior

The varsity football team is off to a historical start with a brand new quarterback, Emmett McIntosh (12). They are undefeated, and are topping their district at the start of Week five. They beat Riverview Gardens 49-0 Sept. 10. Their next game is Oct. 16 at Parkway Central.

Girls Volleyball The varsity girls volleyball team is off to a tough start in district play. They are 3-8, and they are fighting to rebuild their momentum at the start of Week five. The team beat Riverview Gardens 3-0 Sept. 10. Their next game is Oct. 16 against Parkway Central.

Girls Tennis Undefeated, the varsity girls tennis team is off to an 11-match winning streak following recent victories over Marquette, 8-1, and John Burroughs, 7-2. The Rams head into October looking to build on their momentum with upcoming matchups against MICDS, Ursuline Academy and Kirkwood.

Tickets Scores

health & sports

STL Sports

Season Shots

St. Louis City SC St. Louis CITY SC has rebounded strongly under first-year head coach Yoann Damet, climbing to fifth in the Western Conference with a 13–6–8 record.

Q&A with Molly Keys Varsity volleyball captain Molly Keys (11) speaks about her experiences in volleyball What are you looking forward to most in Volleyball this season? I am looking forward to our game against Parkway West because I think it will be competitive and exciting, our Senior Night against Fox to recognize our amazing teammates’ last year and for districts at the end of the season. What is your favorite memory with the team? I have a multitude of good memories with the team, but my favorite is when we beat Clayton earlier this season as everyone played with 110% effort and good energy. What is one skill or technique you’ve been working hardest to improve this year? One specific technique that I have been working hardest to improve this year because as a middle, I often find myself doing a lot of different things for every position. However, I have been focusing more on getting a better hitter-setter connection. With new setters this year, we have been working hard to establish a good tempo, speed and height for when I hit the ball.

Cardinals The Cardinals ended this season 77–85, placing fourth in the NL Central and missing the playoffs for a second straight year after transitioning to a youth-focused rebuild.

ABOVE Evan Via (12) weaves around a Fox defender. The team won the game 27-14. RIGHT Luke Holleran (10) take a penalty against CBC. The game went to overtime, Ladue lost 3-4 in penalties. “That game started well throughout the first half,” Holleran said. “But when we got that three-goal lead, we put our heads too high, giving them a chance to get back into the game and eventually steal the win from us.” (photography by Arin Navjith)

Blues The Blues are starting their 59th season with an updated roster, bringing four new faces to the team. They hope to advance into the playoffs after narrowly missing them last season.

Freshmen make Varsity Soccer Freshmen share their experience when they were told they were on varsity

“

When I found out I made varsity, I was incredibly honored and motivated. I also knew that I still had something to prove and I still needed to work hard and prove that I belonged on the team.”

Roland Goldstein (9)

Spread Design by Arin Navjith

When I found out I made varsity, I was very happy, but I knew it would be a really big challenge. So far, it has been really fun and I’m looking forward to things to come with soccer.”

Hudson Goldstein (9)

“

After I made varsity, I was so excited for what was to come. I was also very motivated and thankful to be surrounded by such a good group of guys.”

Yoav Poremba (9)

photo

To Reach New Heights Seph Zhu (12) coaches youth rock climbers while training his climbing skills by Teo Lee photography editor

Seph Zhu (12) tops out while bouldering at Upper Limits Maryland Heights Sept. 23. Zhu has climbed for over seven years, initially starting on Upper Limits’s competitive climbing teams and later transitioning to coaching at the gym. “I’ve really grown to love it, and it’s definitely something I want to continue down the line, maybe even as I start college,” Zhu said. “Climbing has definitely become something that has been really important in my life.”

October 2026

laduetoday.com

photo

Zhu coaches his climbers through their exercises. Seeking the next step in climbing, Zhu became a coach at Upper Limits in May. He coaches three teams with kids ages 6 to 15. “Growing up, I always had very good coaches, coaches that I still remember to this day,” Zhu said. “That was something that I really wanted to be for these kids.” RIGHT Zhu bumps fists with another climber after a difficult bouldering run. The positive environment and culture of climbing played a crucial part in shaping Zhu’s love for the sport. “The community is so amazing because [you’ll be] on the wall and you’ll have a crowd of people down below cheering for you,” Zhu said. “And then you do the same: you cheer for these people that you don’t even know.” FAR RIGHT Zhu chalks his hands in preparation for a series of hard routes. Zhu emphasized how the challenges of climbing have shaped his outlook on life. “As I’ve been climbing and gone through life, I’ve become able to embrace failure as a second chance, as an opportunity,” Zhu said. “I might fall halfway up a route, but that fall doesn’t mean the end of anything. It simply gives me more information to tell me what I need to do better the next time.” Zhu leaps to a small hold in an exceptionally challenging and dynamic route. The intensity, coordination, endurance and physical strength required when climbing make it a uniquely difficult sport. “It’s one of the sports where it involves the entire body,” Zhu said. “If you move your foot an inch to the left, it might make a difference because at the highest level, it’s just that detailoriented.” Spread Design by Teo Lee

“Our society has set us up for consumerism with planned obsolescence. We’re in a throwaway society. It’s become such a ubiquitous way of structuring our lives.” – Meg Kaupp, social studies teacher