Echo Issue 4, Dec. 9 by SLP Echo

Some teachers offer tutoring

Boys soccer Girls’ swimming at State

Page 5

Page 98 Page

Monday, December 9, 2019 Volume 93 Issue 4 St. Louis Park High School 6425 W. 33rd Street St. Louis Park, MN 55426

SLPECHO.COM

Wi-Fi problems affect school productivity Classrooms face diﬃculties Kaia Myers kaiamyers@slpecho.com

Photo Carissa Prestholdt

Speak out: Sophomores Amal Abdi, Mei Huynh, Matthew Ikola and senior Amaya Fokuo discuss their feelings about how race impacts their lives and identity. SOAR hosted a meeting for students to have the opportunity to discuss race Nov. 25. According to Lee-Ann Stephens, the meeting was to begin to normalize conversations about race in the community.

SOAR initiates discussion Club brings students together to normalize racial conversations Gabriel Kaplan & Maria Perez-Barriga gabrielkaplan@slpecho.com mariaperezbarriga@slpecho.com

s freshman Sharon Lunasilva reflected on the in-school Students Organized for Anti-Racism event, she said she hasn’t felt comfortable discussing race in school, but the event gave her the opportunity to talk about her past experiences. “As a mixed person, race is something that I’m really passionate about,” Lunasilva said. “It’s good to have an environment where you can talk about (racial issues) freely without feeling uncomfortable.” According to Students Organized for Anti-Racism (SOAR) adviser Lee-Ann Stephens, SOAR drew roughly 70 people to its meeting Nov. 25 in order to foster discussions surrounding race. “Although race is a social construct, the meaning of it is lived out every single day. It’s important for us to know other people’s stories and other people’s perspectives around race,” Stephens said. “The more we know, the less fear we have, the less assumptions we make, the less biases we have. The more we talk about it, the more we are brought together.” The SOAR meeting offered students the opportunity to learn the impact of race on the learning environment and students’ general experiences within Park, according to freshman attendee Cecilia Meyen. “We were talking about how race affects us and our experiences, how race is portrayed in schools and how we feel in school talking about race with our teachers and

other peers,” Meyen said. “It was a really safe environment. It was like everybody was there for a reason and we were all comfortable talking about (race).” Lunasilva said attendees also looked into how to initiate broader conversations surrounding race within Park, however, it is ultimately the responsibility of each student to educate themselves. “A lot of the seniors proposed (ideas for) what the school could do to bring more awareness about race,” Lunasilva said. “Everyone is their own indiThe more we talk vidual person and they about (race), the have their own mindset and their own morals, more normalized it so even if you did make will be and the less programs, you couldn’t fear students will go around changing have of saying the every single student in the wrong thing. school.” Stephens said it is imLee-Ann Stephens, portant to normalize disSOAR adviser cussions of race through

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learning environments, as well as organizing events such as SOAR meetings. “It’s not racist to talk about race,” Stephens said. “Race is very much a part of how we live our lives and how we navigate space and time. The more we talk about it, the more normalized it will be and the less fear students will have of saying the wrong thing.” Stephens said SOAR will continue to create space for conversation surrounding race and hopes to involve more students in the future. “I heard students really wanting to do it again,” Stephens said. “They really appreciated having the space to be able to have the conversation, which they haven’t felt they’ve really been able to have.”

itting down to write his English essay, senior Ben Bryan was frustrated not by the essay assignment but by the lack of Wi-Fi. “In my English class, the Wi-Fi went out for a solid 30 minutes and we had an essay (due) that we really needed to get done. It made things a lot more time consuming,” Bryan said. “It’s made classes more difficult when we’re trying to work on projects or essays.” As Principal Scott Meyers reflected on the Wi-Fi issues, he said they are caused by a moving target problem on what to fix. “There have been times throughout the school year where it’s been our internal issues. Then, there’s been issues with internet service providers in this area, so this whole area’s had some issues,” Meyers said. “Then, there are issues with external factors where Google or Microsoft or Apple set up their updates to pull at different times, and then when they go to update, it creates this huge pull on all of our devices.” Social studies teacher Jillian Merkle said the problems with the Wi-Fi can present challenges as she’s had to adjust her class plan. “I’ve had a couple days, especially at the beginning of the year, where what we were doing was pretty much all on the internet and so I had to, in the middle of class, completely change my lesson plan,” Merkle said. Merkle said she’s mindful of the WiFi going down and plans paper alternatives to her online lesson plan. “What I’ll do now is if there’s something where I know that I am pretty reliant on (the internet), I’ll print off another thing that we could do just in case something does happen,” Merkle said. Meyers said the school’s technicians are working to address the issues as they arise and discover what the problem is. “I can definitely attest they are working hard on it, trying to figure it out but its elusive because the target keeps changing. I’m hopeful they can figure things out, because I know it’s been really frustrating,” Meyers said.

Photo Lucy zumBrunnen

Oﬄine: Junior Emma Amon works on a computer in the writing lab. Students have been experiencing Wi-Fi issues.

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NEWS

Echo Monday, December 9, 2019

WEB PREVIEW

Photo Ryan Barnett

Fiscally responsible printer practice impacts users

ibrarian Ellen George said the system of how students can print has changed and there are now different printers for students and faculty. “There’s a whole separate print system for staff and students,” George said. “Now it’s a process where the teachers send a print job and they have to go badge in, to have the print job released.”

Adin Zweigbaum adinzweigbaum@slpecho.com

Junior plays Elle Woods in ‘Legally Blonde’

ccording to junior Phoebe McKinney, playing Elle Woods in Park’s production of “Legally Blonde” is the largest role she has ever had in a production. “I’ve had leads in the past, but nothing as large of an undertaking as this one. Elle is in every scene in this show, and I’ve never had a role like that before,” McKinney said.

Soﬁe Geretz soﬁegeretz@slpecho.com

Art Emmy Pearson

Disney+ creates new streaming option

ccording to cinema teacher Andrew Carlson, he already ordered Disney+ and hasn’t cancelled other streaming apps. Currently he’s paying for four services. “I did purchase it and have not cancelled my other streaming services so currently I have four streaming services, Hulu, Netflix, Amazon Prime and now I have Disney+,” Carlson said.

Hanad Ahmed, sophomore

Dakota bikeway approved by City Council New project oﬀers alternative way of transportation Sam Swisher samswisher@slpecho.com Photo Illustration Jane Pupeza

s city engineer Ben Manibog reflects on the passing of the Dakota bikeway project he said he is pleased that the project will be entering the final design phase. “I’m happy that we’re able to move along with the project. It’s been a long process,” Manibog said. “It’s been very detailed as we work toward a better design since this was the second round of community engagement for it.” The project is part of the city’s 10-year plan to add more bikeways, sidewalks and trails throughout the city. It’s estimated to

cost $443,000 and was approved by the City Council Dec. 2 with a 4-2 vote. Junior Clayton Horstman Olson said the Dakota bikeway project will help protect bikers. “I used to take the Greenway to bike to school and due to that being down I’m having to take sidewalks along the roads in order to get to school,” Horstman Olson said. According to junior Macy Martinson, bikeways will help make interactions between bikers and drivers safer. “I think the bike paths are a perfect

Minneapolis City Council bans conversion therapy Photo Tenzin Gyaldatsang

When (bikers) ride in the streets, there are a lot of accidents and (if) they have their own bike lanes it’s pretty cool.

Unanimous decision only eﬀective in Minneapolis Ben Sanford bensanford@slpecho.com

s of Nov. 22, the Minneapolis City Council unanimously banned the act of conversion therapy, a process of trying to convert minors who identify as part of the LGBTQ+ community to become heterosexual or cisgender. Minneapolis Ward Eight City Council member Andrea Jenkins said conversion therapy is typically performed on individuals without their consent. “(Conversion therapy

is) generally (done) through coercion tactics and generally against young people’s will,” Jenkins said. According to senior Isaac Wahl, he believes conversion therapy should have been banned a long time ago. “I am really glad it is banned, but I was really surprised that it took this long for it to be banned,” Wahl said. Junior Carly Joseph said conversion therapy has had a negative effect on people who have endured it. “It was a really awful thing that people did to members of the LGBTQ+ community (because) people deserve to be who they want to be and love who they want to love,” Joseph said. According to Wahl, trying

start to becoming bike-friendly,” Martinson said. “They will help condition drivers to help be safer on the roads when bikers are around so it will make it more comfortable going out and biking places.” Horstman Olson said making bike infrastructure improvements will improve students’ odds of biking to school. “Promoting more bike paths along the road and having bike locks for people to easily access (will help make the city more bike-friendly),” Horstman Olson said. Construction is scheduled to happen from the spring to fall of 2020.

States with conversion therapy laws 2019

Have laws restricting conversion therapy Introduced legislation

Infographic Sophie Livingston Source CNN

No laws to manipulate one’s sexual orientation is detrimental to the individual. “People should just accept who they are. It’s also not something that is controllable, so the idea of conversion (is) a little bit unhealthy,” Wahl said.

Wahl said educators could be doing a better job of educating students on what conversion therapy is and why it is harmful to LGBTQ+ youth. “There’s a lack of conversation in terms of conversion therapy,” Wahl said.

Brief overview of impeachment process The recent impeachment inquiry on President Donald Trump has left many students curious about the impeachment process. However, the Constitution does not state an oﬃcial impeachment process, therefore Congress sets the rules for each individual impeachment.

Speaker of the House announces an oﬃcial impeachment inquiry

The House of Representatives votes to impeach by a simple majority

The Senate has to vote with a ⅔ majority to remove from oﬃce

According to the Constitution, bribery, treason and high crimes and misdemeanors are impeachable oﬀenses

Anna Benishek annabenishek@slpecho.com For more content go to slpecho.com twitter.com/slpecho facebook.com/slpecho

Photo Sam Klepfer

For more content go to slpecho.com

Infographic Talia Lissauer & Sophie Livingston Source New York Times & Carley Kregness

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I think (Business Innovations) helps with students’ creative process and thinking critically and gives you a look into what creating your own company would be like.

STUDENT LIFE

Echo Monday, December 9, 2019

Raquel Schlichting, sophomore

Business Innovations inspires new generation of entrepreneurs Student-run businesses use products to solve common problems Photo Grace Schultz

Clamping: Sophomore Anna Overall makes earrings for her group’s small business on Nov. 25. Overall’s group ‘Jewelry Junkies’ makes jewelry from recycled materials and sells their products in school. Grace Schultz graceschultz@slpecho.com

ophomore Jada Macklemore said Business Innovations has inspired her to be creative while acquiring new business skills. “My family members never had any type of business class, so it’s really cool (we have access) to this,” Macklemore said. “Some people want to start their own business and they get to learn (the skills) now.” According to business innovations teacher Abigail Lugo, the class approaches learning in a new way. Students learn by doing instead of listening to a lecture. “It’s hands-on learning, so it’s different than a lot of typical classes. Instead of lecturing about (business), they’re learning (by) physically doing it and learning how to run a business,” Lugo said. According to Lugo, once students chose a group to start a business with, they prioritize their time and roles in the company. They find a problem and solve it with their product. Sophomore Theresa Haerke,

CEO of the class’s Stress Hands company, said she works with her group to make the product. “We’re selling Stress Hands because we thought about how students are stressed, so they might want something to fidget with,” Haerke said Sophomore Abel Wright’s group also worked on a solution to a common problem. “We hand-make lotion, buy bottles and sell them,” Wright said. “Winter is coming, which means your skin is drier, so we wanted to solve that problem.” Lugo said the businesses have been running smoothly. However, each business experienced a unique challenge. “Every business has conflict and challenges to make sure they can turn in their work on time, or make sure that they’re making money, which is half of the learning,” Lugo said. Haerke said challenges arose for Stress Hands when attempting to find the right material for their product.

“Finding latex-free balloons didn’t work out. We had to buy (latex-free) gloves, because there aren’t latex-free balloons on the market,” Haerke said. Finding effective communication methods has been a challenge, according to Macklemore. “Communication with the process of making hats. You have to push your group members to try and help,” Macklemore said. Lugo said the businesses give the community access to new products by having them run throughout the school. “Students get to benefit from having these student-run businesses and some awesome products and services at their disposal,” Lugo said. Wright said business innovations has inspired him to pursue a career in business. “I want to start my own business when I’m older, so this class has helped me and taught me how businesses work,” Wright said. The class will host a pop up shop from 4-7:30 p.m. Dec. 10 and 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Dec. 14.

A few of the products Reusable straws Students sell reusable straws. They hope to improve the environment.

Jewelry Junkies Hand-made jewelry from recycled goods. They re-use old products to create something new.

Stress Hands Latex free gloves are used to make ‘Stress Hands.’ They give students something to ﬁdget with.

Infographic Jayde Claussen & Grace Schultz Source Victoria Schmelzle, Anna Overall & Theresa Haerke

Want your voice heard? Echo is looking for artists, designers, photographers, reporters* and videographers for second semester. Applications are available starting today in C363 and are due Dec. 17. * Reporter applicants who have taken the journalism class are preferred.

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FEATURES

Echo Monday, December 9, 2019

WHAT’S THE POINT

Music inspires passion, spreads hope Nebyu Bekele nebyubekele@ slpecho.com

usic is something I have loved since I was a child. Every time music played on the radio or on television, I used to get up and dance. As I grew up, I began developing a special attachment to it. Around age 12 or 13, I realized I wanted to be a part of making it. That’s when I started writing songs and realized the power music has. I began to use music to de-stress from the problems life threw at me. I used music to cope, and pretty soon I started recording my own songs just to vent and display my emotions. I started taking it seriously around sophomore year when I dropped my first song, “This Moment.” “This Moment” got over 1,000 streams on SoundCloud, which inspired me to keep dropping songs, and since What’s the then, I’ve been POINT? releasing songs constantly. My favorite song that I released so far has been “Letter To You.” I spent hours writing it and you can feel the emotions I put into the piece through the lyrics. The song that I spent a lot of time creating is “Coldest Nights.” The song was made after someone I knew told me they had attempted suicide. It was an emotional song for me. I spent a lot of time working on it, hoping the people who listen to it will be inspired to keep pushing and love themselves, even when life is hard. The song has the most plays (with more than 1,500). It inspires me to see how many people listen to my songs. Something that really touched me was when a fan messaged me on Instagram saying my music had saved their life. Seeing that I had such a huge effect on someone motivated me to keep making more music. I hope I can make something out of songs I create and can inspire more people to pursue their dreams and know that they are enough.

Passions create something bigger than ourselves

(The board) is unique because not that many teachers do that. I feel like it’s another way that he like connects with the students better.

Marley Miller, sophomore

Question whiteboard sparks dialogue Students voice their opinions Colin Canaday colincanaday@slpecho.com

alking through the A3 hallway, students are greeted each day with questions ranging from how do you pronounce “caramel” to preference between Pepsi and Coke products. These questions, created by teacher Alexander Polk, are intended to help engage students, according to Polk. “(It allows students to) give some feedback on different things around the world,” Polk said. Sophomore Will Dooley said he believes it allows students to be more expressive. “It’s really for interacting with students and making more of a personal connection between educators and kids.” According to Polk, he employs the question board in order to break up the monotony of class.

Photo Molly Schochet

White board fun: Senior Michael Ramirez chooses Pepsi over Coke on the white board Nov. 18 outside of A308. Chemistry teacher Alexander Polk asks a new question on the board each day. “Sometimes there will be an overwhelming answer and sometimes the argument will carry into class a little bit, which allows students to talk to each other in a different way, not just about chemistry,” Polk said. Dooley said the question board helps make the school environment more lively. “I think it’s fun. It makes it more than just learning, which makes it more enjoyable,” Dooley said. According to Polk, he usually stays away from heavier topics,

but the board inspires conversation within his classroom. “Usually (the questions are) pretty trivial and not super important, like ‘cheese or chocolate?’ or ‘is Batman a superhero?’ which aren’t a huge deal, but it’s a fun way to come into class,” Polk said. Sophomore Asher Danicic believes the question board helps people get in the right mindset before class. “It’s a fun way to get people thinking and talking at the start of class. It of course is optional

so no one has to do it, (but) a lot of people have fun adding their own things.”

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It’s really for interacting with students and making more of a personal connection between educators and kids. Will Dooley, sophomore

IN THE SPOTLIGHT

Kiran Alwy competes on Chopped Jr.

Slices avalilable within Photo Lilly Strathman

Looking at cooking: Seventh grader Kiran Alwy cooks curry for dinner Nov. 18. She will showcase her cooking skills on Chopped Jr., which started airing Nov. 19. What can you tell us about the show? The show itself was great, the people doing the interviews and the people at the show were really nice and sweet.

Kiran Alwy, seventh grader What did you do to prepare for the competition? My dad talked to a lot of award-winning chefs and they gave me tips and then the producers of the show sent a lot of stuff that they wanted (me) to practice. What are some of your favorite dishes to cook and why? I love to make lemon bars. I like to make cookies, and I like to make fish. I’m pescatarian on weekdays, so I make a lot of fish.

What did you do to get on the show? I’ve been cooking since I was 8, so a lot of it is just experience. Apparently they liked my applications, so I did a bunch of other interviews and then they told me I was on the show so they flew me out to New York. How was the overall experience? It was pretty awesome all the producers were super nice and were child friendly. Harris Keekley harriskeekley@slpecho.com

Walking Distance!

Go to SLP Nest after school or visit our bakery 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. Monday through Saturday. 200 flavors made from scratch

muddypawscheesecake.com 3359 Gorham Avenue St. Louis Park, MN 55426

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(Tutoring) sounds like a good idea, if I was struggling in a class and I didn’t have anything going on, I would deﬁnitely go.

FEATURES

Echo Monday, December 9, 2019

Keira Trill, freshman

Students combat controversial ﬂag photo Class documents themselves wearing ﬂags, opposing hate Sam Swisher samswisher@slpecho.com

ccording to English teacher Callie Hefstad, students came up with the idea to take pictures of themselves with a flag of their choice to make people realize how powerful symbols can be. “When the picture blew up on social media my class spent the entire class period talking about it and having a discussion,” Hefstad said. “The students took pictures with a flag that they thought represented them.” After a picture of students holding a Confederate flag surfaced on Instagram, junior I’sis Brown said the pictures with students’ flags would help promote positivity. “The picture went out of the young lady (holding a Confederate flag) and there was a lot of talk about it with the 10th graders,” Brown said. “I brought (the idea) to Ms. Cisco, she’s always been a person of action, and we came up with the idea to spread positivity instead of negativity.” According to freshman Henry Bendickson, he participated in the project because he wanted to do something

Photo Grace Schultz

Expressive flag-making: Teacher Kara Cisco supervises a student-run project for students to represent themselves with flags. Senior Andrew Martinez proudly holds a flag representing her culture. that would benefit the community. “There were some rumors going around about someone holding up a flag that symbolizes something that was probably not the best for the community,” Bendickson said. “I wanted to help and get involved by holding up something that could positively impact the community.” According to Hefstad, she was happy her students took action and hopes this will help them later in life to speak up for what is right. “Seeing them take action in this kind of instance gives me hope that they are going to grow up to be changemakers and speak up for what they believe in,” Hefstad said.

Freshman Michael Burton said people should learn about symbols’ meanings before displaying them. “You should do research before you do something or take action,” Burton said. According to Bendickson, the project helped heal the community hurt by the Confederate flag picture. “I do believe it had a positive impact because it brought together a community that was broken,” Bendickson said. According to Hefstad, this situation will result in students’ abilities to question things around them. “I hope (students) learn how to speak against hate and to challenge the status quo,” Hefstad said.

ACTIVITIES & AWARDS

Photo Humna Belete

Playing for the people: Sophomore Anna Overall plays guitar for open mic event at the Nest Nov. 26.

Nest holds open mic event

Photo Emmy Pearson

Turning to learning: Math teacher Meredith Webster helps junior Denzel Thomas Nov. 16 at the St. Louis Park Library. Some teachers are oﬀering their time to tutor students 9 a.m.–noon every Saturday.

Local tutoring expands Teachers offer free support at St. Louis Park Public Library Noah Orloff noahorloff@slpecho.com

reshman Sebastian Tangelson said if he found himself in need of educational assistance, he would attend tutoring at the St. Louis Park Public Library, courtesy of some teachers. “It gives a good resource for students struggling in school and gives them a time and a place where they can get help,” Tangelson said. English teacher Joseph Weber said he started tutoring at the St. Louis Park Public Library because of his ability to teach various topics, and is excited for other teachers to join. “Last Saturday was the first time there were other teachers there besides me,” Weber said.

According to Weber, the tutoring provided is free of charge. “The only thing I don’t like about it is I wish that I had more students come,” Weber said. “We welcome everybody and if you’re having trouble in a class sometimes it helps to learn it from a different perspective.” Freshman Lily Olson said the tutoring allows students to receive help from teachers without dealing with economic burdens or other problems. “If people don’t have that access outside of school on their own time or with their own person then they can go (to the library) if they are struggling,” Olson said.

ophomore Anna Overall said she performed at the Nest’s open mic to spread her talent. “I’ve had a lot of things that I’ve been practicing lately and I wanted to put them out there,” Overall said. Overall said her performance felt different from previous performances. “I did an open mic last year and it was very different,” Overall said.

Echo wins awards at JEA/ NSPA fall convention

ccording to senior and editor in chief of Echo Isabel Kjaer, Echo attended the JEA/NSPA fall convention in Washington, D.C. where awards were given in several different areas. “It was really nice to see all our hard work recognized by national organizations like NSPA,” Kjaer said. Echo placed first in small schools online for Best of Show.

For more content go to slpecho.com twitter.com/slpecho facebook.com/slpecho

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IN-DEPTH

Echo Monday, December 9, 2019

I think (free speech) is important because it’s important for everyone to express themselves and how they feel, but I do think it’s important not to take advantage of it. Ethan Robec, sophomore

Voicesmatter

In an era of misinformation, free press essential to maintaining democracy

Photo Isabel Kjaer

Photo Marta Hill

News-worthy: Visitors view the 9/11 exhibit at the Newseum in Washington D.C. On display are various front pages from 9/12 and the antenna from the top of the World Trade Center. Free press was key in reporting on the tragedy of 9/11. Legacy: Junior Talia Lissauer interviews Mary Beth Tinker at the JEA/NSPA Fall Convention Nov. 22. Tinker has spent decades advocating for student press rights following her involvement in a Supreme Court case over the issue. Front and center: Front pages from every state and some countries are displayed at the Newseum Nov. 24. The papers represent the pressing issues in a variety of locations, allowing for the dissemination of key information to the public.

Photo Marta Hill

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(Free speech is important) because other people need to hear other people’s opinion and be open minded.

IN-DEPTH

Echo Monday, December 9, 2019

Maecee Alexander, freshman

Ever since she was 13, Mary Beth Tinker has stood up for students’ rights. According to Tinker, youth voices in journalism are more important than ever as issues such as climate change, racial injustice and economic injustice become increasingly prominent. “Journalism is like having a microphone for speaking about these issues,” Tinker said. “Not just speaking about them but changing these issues and making them better.” Marta Hill & Talia Lissauer martahill@slpecho.com talialissauer@slpecho.com

Limits of free speech

n 1969, 13-year-old Tinker along with two others, decided to wear black armbands in protest of the Vietnam War. School administrators ordered the students to end the protest, but Tinker refused and sued under the First Amendment. The conflict made its way to the Supreme Court where the justices ruled in favor of Tinker, saying students do not “shed their constitutional rights to freedom of speech or expression at the schoolhouse gate.” Despite the protections given by Tinker v. Des Moines, the fight for students’ First Amendment rights continues today. According to the Student Press Law Center (SPLC), the Supreme Court has since chipped away at these rights through rulings such as Hazelwood School District v. Kuhlmeier of 1988, in which the court ruled to allow school administration to censor student media content if the media i. In response to rulings such as Hazelwood, the New Voices movement was born, advocating for its own legislation that protects students’ free press rights. According to SPLC, New Voices laws have been passed in 14 states. According to Mark Goodman, a journalism professor at Kent State University and Knight Chair in Scholastic Journalism, New Voices legislation has no negative impact on schools. “High school education is just as healthy and vibrant in Iowa (with New Voices) as it is anywhere else in the country,” Goodman said. “The fact that the students have strong free press protections because of their state law has not made it any harder for schools to do their job educating.” The Minnesota New Voices bill is active in both the state House and Senate. Although many student newspapers struggle with censorship, publications often find themselves in conflict with constituent communities over their coverage, such as Northwestern University this past month. After covering former Attorney General Jeff Sessions’ Nov. 5 visit to the University and accompanied protests, The Daily Northwestern took down its own coverage of the event in response to complaints. Professional media picked up the story and took sides over the paper’s self-censorship. Joey Safchik, a junior at Northwestern University and the news director of the University’s broadcast station, said the station decided to leave its video coverage of the event up in contrast to the Daily’s decision and despite take-down requests. “We all agreed that what we did is by no means malpractice and was journalism. This was a protest, they were in a public space, they were adults protesting and we were comfortable with our coverage,” Safchik said. “We continued owning and publishing the story for weeks after because we think that informing the campus is what we are here to do.”

Where free speech and press meet A citizen’s right to free speech is intertwined with the right to free press, according to Goodman, as the press offers a medium for expression and only through it can an individual be informed. “(We) must remember how closely tied free press and free speech are,” Goodman said. “The moment we start tolerating restrictions on press freedom is the moment the free speech rights of individuals can be curtailed as well.” Tinker said journalists must continuously fight for their right to publish stores in the face of attempted suppression. “We are living in mighty times when there are so many im-

Local numbers The @slpecho Instagram conducted a poll on its story, asking its followers questions about freedom of speech and press.

96% of voters said free speech is important

66% of voters said they have felt their speech was limited

90% of voters said administration should not censor student media Infographic Maggie Klaers Source @slpecho Instagram

portant decisions to be made about the directions of our communities, our country and our world,” Tinker said. “Journalism is under attack by some forces in our country and that’s not right because we need the free press for democracy.” In addition to helping inform the public, Safchik said high school and college newspapers allow student journalists to gain experience and find their passion. “Having students who are well trained in the art of journalism, who will take their job seriously and will have a real passion for doing the news and doing it right could be (what) brings our democracy into the 21st century in a safe and productive way.” According to Goodman, the free press most importantly connects the public with the truth, allowing for a more informed society. “If it weren’t for journalism in its many different forms, we would have to rely only on those people in power and what they tell us,” Goodman said. “Journalism, in its best incarnation, is the independent telling of the truth and the relaying of facts that we as community members can base our decisions on.”

Free expression at home Sophomore Jacob Khabie said access to school newspapers allows students to understand the importance and the impact of local events. “A student-run newspaper really helps bring out opinions that aren’t being directed by the administration,” Khabie said. “Student voices (can) really help us get through situations.” According to freshman Lauren Thon, the Echo’s coverage of the controversial bathroom practice gave students a voice in the school. “With the bathroom policy and how people couldn’t really say what they want If it weren’t for without being in fear of administration takjournalism in its ing it down, (students) shouldn’t have had many diﬀerent to worry about that,” Thon said. forms, we would Student journalism is important because the issues facing students in schools are not have to rely only always covered by professional media, acon those people cording to Goodman. in power and “Students have historically been on what they tell us. the forefront of every sort of major social Journalism, in its change we’ve made in this country,” Goodman said. “(Student journalism) is a best incarnation, window into a world that we would not is the independent otherwise have.” telling of the truth According to Thon, she feels as though and the relaying her right to free speech is somewhat supof facts that we pressed in the school. “People should be able to express as community themselves and show their opinions and members can thoughts,” Thon said. “(In school) I am base our decisions being limited on what I can say and even if on. I believe in something, I can’t really say it because of how the school is.” Junior Rachel Stein said free speech is Mark Goodman, professor at Kent State University important for all — journalists and nonjournalists alike. “Free speech is really important in my life and the life of others in order to express ourselves and our beliefs,” Stein said. “It’s very important to have student-run newspapers because it allows people partaking in the newspaper to learn journalism, but then also for the student body to be educated on what is going on in our school.”

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SPORTS

Echo Monday, December 9, 2019

I think (girls’ swimming competing at State) is a really cool accomplishment and our school just needs to keep doing great.

Isaac Cantor, freshman

OUT OF THE PARK

Club synchro teaches life lessons Isabel Kjaer isabelkjaer @slpecho.com

have always loved swimming. The feeling when you first get in the pool and touch the waves makes my heart race. It feels like I’ve been swimming my entire life, starting with lessons when I was 4 and then moving on to synchronized swimming. I started synchronized swimming in third grade with my club team, Minnesota Aquafins. I was scared to flip underwater for a second, let alone for 10 or even 20 seconds. My sister, who had participated in synchro for two years, promised me I’d be OK. So with shaky legs, I jumped into the pool on my first day of practice. Little did I know, it would become my favorite sport. My experience on Aquafins has been nothing short of amazing. The coaches are friendly and helpWhat’s the ful, but my favorite POINT? part has to be my teammates. While a high school team is comprised of people sitting in your classes, club sports give you an invaluable opportunity to meet people outside of Park. Through my club team, I have met so many incredible people from schools like Bloomington, Edina and Prior Lake that I never would have met otherwise. I have had the chance to grow and compete with these swimmers for many years, and it is an experience I wouldn’t trade for anything. When I see my friends from other schools during high school meets, we always hug and wish each other good luck. The warmth during the cold environment of swim meets really helps me through. Club synchro eliminates so much of the ugly side of competition during high school because our competitors aren’t just our friends, they are our teammates. Synchro has taught me so much about being a good person first and then a good competitor — a lesson I will always carry with me.

There’s more to sports than just winning

Photo Carissa Prestholdt

Pass it: Senior Aaron Ellingson dribbles the ball around Burnsville player senior Cedric Ung Nov. 30 at home. The teams’s next game will be 7 p.m. Dec. 5 at Park Center. The next home game will be 7 p.m. Dec. 10 against Henry Sibley.

Boys’ basketball loses at home opener Park loses ﬁrst game to Burnsville 65-58 Adin Zweigbaum adinzweigbaum@slpecho.com

ollowing a loss to Burnsville in the first game of the season, coach David Breitenbucher said he attributes the loss to lack of preparedness and time. “It was pretty hard to prepare for the game, because it was Burnsville’s first game as well so there was no scouting,” Breitenbucher said. “I usually go scout every game we play, so this game (we) went in blind, without a thorough report on Burnsville.” According to team manager Demareon Caston, even though the team started off slow, they kept playing hard until the end of the game. “(At) the start we were doing a little bad,” Caston said. “We kept on working

though. We kept on pushing ourselves to get that scoreboard up until the end.” Junior Paris Johnson said he thinks the team played well, but needs to improve in the future. “We played all right,” Johnson said. “We just have to get better from here.” Breitenbucher said the team performed well considering it’s minimal amount of practices, but it also has a lot to revise. “The game was more about us and less about Burnsville. We have a ton of stuff to improve on,” Breitenbucher said. “I mean, we only had two weeks of practice.” Caston said it is up to the team to get better, which will determine how successful their season will be. “It’s all up to them to improve,” Caston said. “If they feel like they need to improve they will, but if they don’t then it’s going to be a tough season for them.”

Johnson reflects on what the team has to correct in order to be more successful. “We need to improve on playing more aggressive and boxing out,” Johnson said. “We (have to) focus on condiIf they feel like tioning and boxing they need to out, also one on one improve they will, and fast break-type drills.” but if they don’t According to then it’s going to Breitenbucher, he be tough is happy with the team’s performance Demareon Caston, and believes it will senior get better as the season progresses. “Things will improve. I’m proud of our guys because we played hard. It was sloppy, but we played hard, Breitenbucher said. Park boys’ basketball will play its next game 7 p.m. Dec. 5 at Park Center High School.

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Swimmers place in four events at State meet Park ﬁnishes 21st in ﬁnals Nov. 16 Marta Hill martahill@slpecho.com

fter placing second in the 100-yard breaststroke at State, senior Hattie Kugler said going into the meet, she was fully invested. “This is my last race ever because I’m not going forward with (swimming), so I was just like, ‘why not make it the best I can have,’” Kugler said. According to junior Grace Loveland, the State meet Nov. 16 was meaningful because of the inspiration she received from senior captains Kugler and Franny Bevell. “Seeing (Kugler and Bevell) put in all their hard work from not just this season, but from over the years, inspires me to

do really well next season,” Loveland said. According to Loveland, the 200-yard medley relay placed 14th highlighting the strong swim. “Everyone on the relay performed super well. A lot of best times for everyone and all together everyone did amazing,” Loveland said. Kugler said in preparation for State the team reduced the length of workouts. “We have been tapering down our yards and really focusing on the little stuff to make sure this meet was as big as it really is,” Kugler said. According to Loveland, on top of tapering yardage, the State swimmers focused on their mindset. “We rested a lot and visualized before we swam, and we (did) a meditation. It is a time

Photo Emmy Pearson

Open wide: Junior Elie Grassley competes in the 500-yard freestyle and ﬁnished with a time of 5:23.53 minutes, placing 16th overall. Park competed at the State ﬁnals Nov. 16 at the University of Minnesota where three individuals and a relay placed. where we think about our races and get in the mindset to go fast and accomplish great things,” Loveland said. Coach Amanda Forsberg said the main goal going into State was to qualify events for the finals Nov. 16.

“(Our goal was to) get everyone back to day two, which we did. We have never done that before,” Forsberg said. “I wanted the seniors to end on a high note, which I think Hattie (Kugler) and Franny (Bevell) did. I’m very proud.”

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The volleyball game was really cool, the fact that they made it to State was really impressive.

SPORTS

Echo Monday, December 9, 2019

Rosario Montero-Ward, sophomore

Catch it: Senior Amelia Ryan reaches to get the disc during the game against Edina Nov. 30.

MEET THE ATHLETE

Smile: The Edina and All-Star teams take photo together after the game.

Who Anna Nicholls Grade Senior Sport Girls’ Hockey How long have you been playing hockey? I started skating when I was 5. I started high school hockey in eighth grade.

Four ultimate players selected to play on Minnesota All-Star team

Photos Carissa Prestholdt

Quick facts Who?

Athletes compete at U.S. Bank Stadium

Marta Hill, Amelia Ryan, Lauren Schmelzler and Danny Shope

What? Edina organized the game against the Minnesota AllStar team

Where? U.S. Bank Stadium.

Score? Boys’ All-Star team lost 13-10. Girls’ All-Star team won 12-8 Infographic Carissa Prestholdt Source Seija Stratton

Sadie Yarosh & Adin Zweigbaum sadieyarosh@slpecho.com adinzweigbaum@slpecho.com

embers from the Park ultimate program were chosen to play on the Minnesota All Star Team against Edina Dec. 1 at U.S. Bank Stadium. Senior Amelia Ryan said the atmosphere was very different than regular season games. “I had an amazing experience playing at the U.S. Bank Stadium,” Ryan said. “(Normally) our games are played on grass fields with not many people watching. We had the boys’ and girls’ teams playing side by side on the actual turf with around 225 fans in the stadium.”

Minnesota All-Star coach Seija Stratton said the event was focused on showing off youth ultimate skills. “(The event was) trying to showcase youth ultimate to the community,” Stratton said. “Doing it in an elite stadium brings a lot of publicity and awareness, so that’s really fun.” According to sophomore Danny Shope, playing at the stadium was a great experience and the fans helped increase the energy. “I think (the energy) was a lot higher than it usually was, especially with all the fans,” Shope said. “It was really awesome to be able to play here.” According to Stratton, she believed the team played well. “It was awesome. We completely exceeded expectations, everyone was just so energized and pumped up,” Stratton said.

A look back

at some fall highlights

Photo Lucy ZumBrunnen

Photo & Infographic Sadie Yarosh

Hit it: Senior Ivy Jones celebrates after a point. Park won 3-0 against Moorehead.

Throw it: Junior McCabe Dvorak runs ball downﬁeld. Park defeated De LaSalle 41-0.

Kick it: Sophomore Danny Lainsbury launches the ball against Hopkins Oct. 12.

Girls’ volleyball (21-6)

Boys’ football (4-4)

Boys’ soccer (11-1-1)

Stat leaders

Photo Ava Ashby

Kills: Hannah Howell (251) Digs: Addie Warg (236) Blocks: Kendall Coley (57)

Last game Placed eighth in the State tournament, second in the consolation bracket

Passing yards: Aaron Ellingson (1118) Rushing yards: Sajid Nathim (392) Receiving yards: McCabe Dvorak (493)

Goals: Danny Lainsbury (7) Assists: Nick Riley (5) Saves: Luis Benitez Matias (3)

Last game

Lost in ﬁrst round of Sections to Irondale 28-30

Ended in second round of Sections to Hopkins 2-1

Why did you decide to play hockey? I decided to play because my older brother played, as well as my cousin, and I grew up in Minnesota and that’s what Minnesotan kids do. What has been your favorite moment in hockey so far? The relationships and friendships I’ve built from all my teammates, whether they were older or younger than me. My coaches have had a really big influence on me as a player. They’ve really impacted how I play and my hockey character. What’s a challenge for you in hockey? Balancing everything with super late games and then having to do homework either before or after, or having to miss out on different social or sporting events. I can’t perfectly balance everything. What’s your favorite part about being on the Park hockey team? Leaving it all out there on the ice and celebrating how I’ve been playing hockey my whole life. What are you most looking forward to this season? Celebrating how I’ve been playing hockey my whole life. How do you prepare for a game? First I listen to music. I get ready, I put on my warmup, I retape my stick. Then we have to warm up as a team. We roll out, do stretches and put on our gear. I get in the mental state to take this game seriously and play this game as (if) it’s my last. Just take one game at a time, (that’s) the biggest thing that goes to my head. What are your goals for this season? My goals would be ending my high school hockey career on a good note, making sure everyone is included. Leave a legacy behind, finish strong and enjoy every minute of it.

Tamar Gewirtz tamargewirtz@slpecho.com

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OPINIONS

Echo Monday, December 9, 2019

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Editors-in-chief: Marta Hill* & Isabel Kjaer* Managing editors: Gabriel Kaplan, Kaia Myers, Noah Orloff, Carissa Prestholdt & Sofia Seewald Photo editor: Emily Ziessman Assistant photo editor: Anna Benishek Design editors: Maggie Klaers, Sophie Livingston Copy editors: Emma Leff, Ruth Posada, & Sofie Geretz Assistant copy editors: Ryan Barnett, Tobias Khabie News editor: Talia Lissauer Features editor: Tamar Gewirtz In-Depth editor: Maddie Schutte Sports editor: Sadie Yarosh Opinions editors: Maria Perez-Barriga* Entertainment editor: Ben Sanford Video/Broadcast editor: Isabella Kanne Special Projects editor: Sam Klepfer* Business Manager: Adin Zweigbaum Staﬀ: Ava Ashby, Mushtaq Barquab, Neb Bekele, Humna Belete, Svea Bleske, Henry Brettingen, Colin Canaday, Jayde Claussen, Tennam Gyaldatsang, Tenzin Gyaldatsang, Megan Hoenie, Harris Keekley, Isra Mohamed, Emelia Pearson, Ayelet Prottas, Jane Pupeza, Riyan Said, Kate Schneider, Molly Schochet, Grace Schultz, Lily Simonett, Lillian Strathman, Samuel Swisher, Zuhayb Yassin, Rodolfo Zarate Principal: Scott Meyers Printer: North Star Media Adviser: Lori Keekley *Denotes editorial board member MEDIA POLICIES

The Echo is the official studentproduced newspaper of St. Louis Park High School. It is published triweekly for the school’s students, staff and community. The Echo is a designated forum for student expression in which students make all decisions of content without prior review from school officials. The adviser will not act as a censor, but will advise students. Students have the final decision on all content. The Echo will work to avoid bias and/ or favoritism. We will strive to make our coverage and content meaningful and interesting to all our readers. We will make every effort to avoid printing libel, obscenities, innuendo and material that threatens to disrupt the learning process or is an invasion of privacy. We will avoid electronic manipulation that alters the truth of a photograph unless clearly labeled as a photo illustration. Staff editorials represent the opinion of the editorial board arrived at by discussion and will not be bylined. Bylined articles are the opinion of the individual writers and do not necessarily reflect the views of the Echo staff or administration as a whole. The Echo welcomes reader input. Letters to the editor and suggestions must be signed and should be no longer than 250 words and may be emailed to slpecho@gmail.com or submitted in room C275. Emailed letters must be verified prior to publication. We will not necessarily publish all letters received and reserve the right to ask the writer to edit for length and clarity. Anonymous letters will not be printed. Advertisements will be sought from local businesses and school clubs and sports. We maintain the right to reject any ads we believe to be false, misleading, inappropriate or harmful. The Echo does not necessarily endorse the products or services offered in these advertisements. NSPA Hall of Fame member; 2011, 2016, 2017, 2019 NSPA Print Pacemaker Finalist; 2013, 2014, 2015. 2018 National Print Pacemaker Award Recipient; 2014, 2015, 2017 National Online Pacemaker Finalist; 2018, 2019 National Online Pacemaker Award Recipient; 2017 CSPA Hybrid Crown Finalist; 2013 CSPA Gold Crown; 2015 CSPA Hybrid Gold Crown; 2012, 2014, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019 CSPA Silver Crown; JEM All-State.

(The Superfund program) is a great way to clean up the roads, but it might be a lot of trouble to actually follow through. Ilyas Mohamed, freshman

OUR PERSPECTIVE

SOAR meeting sparks important dialogue

he St. Louis Park community places significant value on diversity and student voices. This culminated in the meeting of Students Organized Against Racism (SOAR) Nov. 19. The Echo Editorial Board applauds SOAR for creating this opportunity for student voices to be heard. Conversations about race are very important and at Park many believe we are doing well at talking about this difficult subject. In reality, we really need to work on it. SOAR succeeds at having a space and time for students to express their thoughts, as well as fostering a comfortable and encouraging environment to facilitate these conversations. The club’s meetings allow students who don’t have as much of a voice in our school to speak up. The Board recognizes the greater accessibility of the meeting by having it during fifth hour. However, we urge SOAR to have a higher frequency and regularity of discussion events to expand the reach of the message as well as the experience

Photo Carissa Prestholdt

Speak your truth: Senior Victoria Caraballo makes an announcement during the SOAR meeting Nov. 25. Students discussed what impact race has in their life. of having those difficult conversations about race. The Park administration should be involved in these discussions, but so far, SOAR meetings have seen little to no participation from the administration. Though we are fortunate that Park values student voices, it is still important that this effort comes from many sides; the administration needs to hold up its end. Not only should the administration

make it a priority to attend these meetings, but everyone else at Park should do their best to make it to these discussions because they impact the whole community. Without these difficult conversations about race, we aren’t able to learn and grow in our understanding of diverse perspectives. As SOAR looks to organize future events, it is important for more students and administration to attend.

NCAA allows student athletes to beneﬁt off their image New rule will ﬁx long-time injustice Toby Khabie tobykhabie@slpecho.com

CAA finally addressed the issue of not allowing student athletes to make profit off their name and image when, according to CNBC, top NCAA officials made a rule allowing athletes to do so. The rule change comes after California passed a law permitting college athletes to make profit off of their name and image.

Photo Noah Orloﬀ

Shoot: Former Michigan State University basketball player Kenny Goins shoots the ball during the open practice at the Final Four April 5. According to CNBC, future NCAA student athletes will be able to gain money from their likeness.

To Frozen: It’s time to let it go, or Olaf might have a meltdown.

While the NCAA rule is slightly different from the California rule in terms of what market they can sell to, the student athletes will still benefit greatly. For those who aren’t familiar with NCAA and collegiate sports, players in the past haven’t been able to profit off their name, image and likeness, while both the team and league made a ton of money. This is an issue because many players come from poor families, and while NCAA sports, especially basketball and football, generate a tremendous amount of money from the players, none of it goes to them. Even for athletes who aren’t financially burdened, it is still wrong to exploit them and not give them any sort of compensation. According to ESPN, NCAA had not allowed players to make money off their likeness because they wanted to keep the clear division between college and professional sports. However, this is extremely unjust toward the players, who are basically being exploited for money. College athletes put in hard work every single day, yet they don’t make a single penny. This is especially unfair for athletes who suffer injuries that lead to the end of their athletic careers, possibly costing them a chance to make it to the professional level. With this new policy, players will finally be able to make some cash off their talents. For those players who grew up financially unstable, they will be able to have some sort of income, which will prove to be extremely beneficial in the long run. According to NCAA, only 2% of all college athletes go pro. For the 98% who don’t go to the professional level and have to find other careers, they will be able to fall back on a fair amount of cash that was made during college by profiting from their name. According to Sports Illustrated, The new rule change will be implemented by January 2021, by which all three NCAA divisions must have new rules ready to be enforced that will still provide a distinction between college sports and professional sports.

To Wi-Fi issues: When in doubt, the Wi-Fi is out.

Up to bike paths: Forget take a hike, take a bike.

Art Maggie Klaers

G.S., I.K., L.K.

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I think the thought behind it is really nice and it will help those who need the representation. However, I think it could be taken wrong because non-binary people don’t just look non-binary.

OPINIONS

Echo Monday, December 9, 2019

Lucy Marciniak, sophomore

Non-binary emojis add inclusivity Apple includes new emojis into software

Art Ruthie Posada

What are some of the new gender neutral emojis? • • •

Biker Painter Golfer

• •

Basketball player Fairy

• • •

Juggler Farmer Scientist

Infographic Jane Pupeza Source Apple

Zuhayb Yassin zuhaybyassin@slpecho.com

ith the new iOS 13.2 update, Apple added non-binary emojis. I support their addition of genderneutral emojis in their software update. Since Apple added new non-binary emojis, users don’t have to identify themselves as feminine or masculine. Before the update, it is understandable that people may have been upset because they may have a hard time choosing which emojis to use, and nobody should go through that. The new update from apple will show all people are welcomed, and people are able to use these emojis to express themselves. Adding non-binary emojis makes it easier for people who identify as neither feminine or masculine to text other people. While I support them adding the emojis, I think Apple should’ve done this much earlier.

Since Apple is one of the first companies to add more diversity to their emojis, they are a great examples for others because their example will encourage them to include all people. The new addition expands inclusivity and diversity of the emoji library. Apple’s addition is leading the way in inclusivity in emojis, especially for varying groups of people. I hope what Apple did will spread diversity and inclusivity so all can people feel equal, including the LGQBT+ community. Adding emojis to their software may help all people to feel equal. In the future more people should be represented in emojis. Including groups such as people who have disabilities or unique jobs will allow more people to express themselves through emojis. Overall, Apple did a great job with this update by showing it cares about all people, but they should include more groups in their emoji library.

POINT COUNTERPOINT

Tech companies and the privacy of data causing concern for U.S. residents As TikTok popularity has grown widespread those who use the app have become worried surrounding data being used by the Chinese government, according to Technode. Consumers’ data already out in the public Peoples’ privacy is already at risk Riyan Said riyansaid@slpecho.com

onsumer’s personal data has been collected for years by companies like Apple and Google. Companies who use data for their programs and for statistics of their users, according to The Wall Street Journal. They know what audiences they appeal to the most and how they can get more users. The data that companies use is detailed in their terms of service and privacy regulations, which users must consent to in order to use an app. Companies only have access to data users have allowed them to use. Data permitted to use is written in the privacy policy is required for companies to have. Users have the right to question their privacy, but they have already

PARK TRAIL

agreed to have their demographic and app data collected. If users review the privacy policy before agreeing, they can see what data is potentially being collected. Apps like TikTok are very big in countries like China and the United States. China has a strict regulations on what user data can be collected and how users interact with companies, according to TechNode. Because of strict regulations on companies, it’s hard for any app to pose much of a threat to user privacy. The CEO of TikTok, Zhang Yiming, has been convincing users peoples’ data is not being used negatively, according to an interview with The New York Times. If there are any concerns with the threat that companies supposedly pose to users, consumers should be conscious and careful with reading the privacy policy and being careful with what they post.

STUDENT VOICES What is your thoughts on the privacy of data used by apps like TikTok?

Tech companies pose national threat to the United States Companies invades consumer data Isra Mohamed isramohamed@slpecho.com

“It’s a big problem and consumer privacy should be companies’ ﬁrst priority. However, it’s kind of what companies like TikTok do, it’s kind of inevitable.”

Samantha Rekstap, sophomore

“Our generation accepts the fact that our data is out there, but what personal data would they be able to gather? It’s not like my social security number is on TikTok.”

Sydney Prince, sophomore

ig tech companies like Google and Amazon have always been around and people have been using them for many years. It has recently become a topic of interest to the U.S. government because they are worried that ByteDance — TikTok’s Chinese parent — has access to users’ app data and profiles. Personal data should only be used if needed. People shouldn’t have to give out half of their information if they just want to download a simple app on their phone. The Chinese government shouldn’t have any type of access to user profiles of people living in the United States because it deprives someone of their right to keep private information out of the public and other people’s eyes. TikTok should be under investi-

gation because even though many people enjoy the app, they don’t realize that it can be risky while making an account. Another large tech company that is putting consumer data at risk is Google. Google wanted to take over the health app Fitbit, which is way or people to stay fit and track their health progress. Google can gain access to information about people’s health and their location. All big tech companies should update their terms and agreements and be specific about what their rules and regulations are, so people have an idea about what they are getting themselves into by signing up for an app or website. No one should be deprived of their privacy and tech companies shouldn’t gain any access to information that can be risky to users. Users should know if their information is being put out to the public without their permission.

Sophie Livingston sophielivingston@slpecho.com

Everytime I try to do work...

Let’s try this again

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12 ENTERTAINMENT

Echo Monday, December 9, 2019

I’m excited, I think it’s going to be the best movie. I love their songs, they’re really good. Marcus Hosﬁeld, sophomore

REVIEW

‘Frozen 2’ wanders into the unknown Sequel explores Elsa’s powers Isra Mohamed isramohamed@slpecho.com

alking into the theater to see “Frozen 2,” I was anticipating an upbeat, fabulous sound track with a new, thrilling plot and I wasn’t disappointed. The movie started off with a glimpse of Anna (Kristen Bell) and Elsa (Idina Menzel) when they were younger, learning the backstory of their town. The next scene jumped to Elsa on her throne. At points like this, the film felt very fast-paced, as it went from young Elsa to her as an adult, skipping over the details of her childhood. As the movie goes on, Elsa questions her powers as she begins to hear ringing voices. She and her crew — Anna, Kristoff (Jonathan Groff), Olaf (Josh Gad) and Sven — head to the enchanted forest to find out where the voices are coming from. This was my favorite part of the movie because the original characters come together. They had a strong relationship in the original “Frozen,” but I was excited to see them become even closer. The ending was a bit confusing due to many parts of the plot playing out at once.

It could have included a more central focus on Elsa throughout the duration of the film. There were too many character perspectives, which made it hard to keep up with at times. Olaf made me laugh out loud by being sarcastic and unaware of his surroundings, which was relatable. The songs played throughout the movie fit all the scenes. “Into the Unknown” was my favorite song on the sound track because of Idina Menzel’s powerful vocal performance. The voice acting, as well as the rest of the vocal performances were well done, and I enjoyed them more than I did in the original. The score and sound track transitioned effortlessly from scene to song, and proved to be very catchy. The sequel was an upgrade from the original “Frozen,” because of the details in the characters and the color schemes in the scenery. The detail put into the characters’ animations gave them more realistic human features. The many costume designs for characters like Elsa and Anna were breathtaking to witness, and the other characters looked more realistic than how they were in the original “Frozen.” I loved the empowering message highlighted in the relationship between the two sisters. The plot of the movie was gripping, with each scene leading smoothly to the next. I never found myself feeling bored. If you enjoyed the first “Frozen,” the second will not disappoint.

Fair use from Walt Disney Studios

METRO AT A GLANCE

Ben Sanford bensanford@slpecho.com

Fair use from Walker Art Center, Hennepin Theatre Trust, Columbia Records, Lucas Films Ltd.

Through March 1

Through Dec. 15

Dec. 13

Dec. 20

Elizabeth Price displays her art in an exhibit at the Walker Art Center. Her work mixes digital photography, animation, music and motion graphics.

Based on the 2007 film with the same name, the stage adaptation of “The Band’s Visit” will be at the Orpheum Theatre. Tickets start at $40.

Two and a half years after the release of his debut album, Harry Styles’ “Fine Line” switches genres, from a rock and roll to pop and R&B.

The third installment in the “Star Wars” trilogy concludes with a story following characters like Rey, Finn, Poe Dameron and Kylo Ren.