Echo
STORE MOVED Muddy Paws Cheesecake moves closer to high school PAGE 4
TEAM RELOCATES
OSCARS 2019
Pool remodeling causes Synchro location change PAGE 8
Top three nominated movies to watch PAGE 12
Friday, February 15, 2019 Volume 92 Issue 7 St. Louis Park High School 6425 W. 33rd Street St. Louis Park, MN 55426
SLPECHO.COM
Friday 2/15 The preSno Daze pep fest will be at the end of the school day in the high school old gym.
Photos Echo File Photos
Tuesday 2/19
Wednesday 2/20 Thursday 2/21
Friday 2/22
Saturday 2/23
The 3-on-3 basketball tournament will be the first after-school event at 7 p.m. in the Fieldhouse.
A dodgeball tournament will take place at 7 p.m. in the Fieldhouse. Teams should sign up in the lunchroom.
Student Council will be holding a skating and sledding excursion at 7 p.m. at Oak Hill Park.
The Sno Daze dance will be at 7 p.m. in the St. Louis Park Middle School cafeteria. Tickets are $10 after Feb. 15.
Battle of the Bands and a talent show will be at 7 p.m. at the Nest. Doors open at 6:30 p.m.
Sno Daze W hits rewind Annual dance moves to middle school Evie Nelson & Ruby Stillman evienelson@slpecho.com rubystillman@slpecho.com
hen deciding on a Sno Daze theme, senior Student Council co-president Cailey Hansen-Mahoney tried to incorporate the new dance location. The result was a nostalgic, retro theme she hopes will allow students to reminisce. “We are going to do a throwback theme this year, bringing it back to the time when many of us were in middle school or in elementary school,” HansenMahoney said. “People are not happy that the dance is at the middle school, but I think we can really transform it into a really great space.” Senior Jack Hanson said he doesn’t care about the dance venue change and enjoys the uniqueness of this year’s theme. “Honestly, it’s not a big deal to me that it is at the middle school. I don’t think it’s going to be much different. I like the theme. Since I have been at school, we haven’t done one like that,” Hanson said.
All of Student Council met to talk about Sno Daze and pick a theme, according to Lindenberg. She said she is proud of the council’s adaptability. “They have done a good job of trying to work with the changes and also improve student opinions and morale,” Lindenberg said. “They get feedback and act on that feedback to make it a good experience for all.” Lindenberg said some of the week’s festivities include original activities she hopes will encourage students to participate. “I think it’s going to be a fun week because we are trying a few new things, and it’s nice to do the old traditional types of activities. But it’s also fun to see students trying new things,” Lindenberg said. “It’ll be kind of fun because it’ll bring out a new kind of population of students For more content go to who will be able to try slpecho.com something new.”
Student Election Program to engage teens New group encourages youth voting education Talia Lissauer talialissauer@slpecho.com
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s sophomore Dahlia Krebs looked for ways to make a difference in her community, she discovered a program designed to incorporate students in the election process. “The (Student Election Program) run by the city of St. Louis Park asking (high schoolers) to be a part of the election,” Krebs said. “I wanted to get involved in the
city, and it seemed like a great way to get involved.” According to election specialist Robert Stokka, program participants will discuss civics topics. Sophomore Ben Cantor said acting as a student election judge motivated him to be a part of the election program. “I thought I should continue with that program, and I’m interested in learning more about student engagement,” Cantor said. Stokka said the program is available to all Park and Benilde students. “We don’t want to create any
barriers for students. There’s no application just ninth through 12th grade for any student in St. Louis Park, including Benilde,” Stokka said.” According to Krebs, the program’s goal is to teach people the importance of voting so they will be more likely to vote in the future. “Hopefully we can educate a lot of people about voting and hopefully help people understand the voting system,” Krebs said. For more content go to slpecho.com
Photo Yonah Davis
Take a vote: Juniors Maggie Klein and Amelia Ryan attend the Student Election Program meeting Feb. 12 at St. Louis Park City Hall. According to election specialist Robert Stokka, the program will have several meetings to explore different civic engagement topics.
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NEWS
Echo Friday, February 15, 2019
I have to wake up 20 minutes earlier in order to start my car, scratch off the ice and wipe off the snow. Gavin Charpentier, senior
WEB PREVIEW
Photo Grace Farley
Yearbook sales close
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ccording to Echowan adviser Julianne Herbert, sales — which closed Feb. 5 — were especially good this year, leaving staffers less stressed than in the past. “We got out of the gate quickly and got a lot of sales really early on. The staff have been really willing to work on their sales techniques to encourage people to buy books,” Herbert said.
Polar vortex calls time out Weather cancels activities, sports
Gabriel Kaplan gabrielkaplan@slpecho.com
Dani Orloff & Noah Orloff daniorloff@slpecho.com noahorloff@slpecho.com
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s the typical school routine is restored after weeks of extreme weather, sophomore basketball player Will Kietzmann said it created chaos. “We had our Cooper game rescheduled,” Kietzmann said. “It was OK, but it affected us playing three games in one week.” According to athletic director Andy Ewald, numerous practices and events were canceled because of early releases, school closings and transportation difficulties.
Photo Carissa Prestholdt
Boys’ swimming heads into Sections
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ccording to senior captain Max Bechtold, peak week is a period of intense training, where boys’ swimming works significantly harder in practice. “It’s (a week) made to train us one final time before we get into taper, where we decrease (our) yardage and therefore get faster when we swim the meet,” Bechtold said.
Religious leader receives three years probation Amaia Barajas & Grace Farley amaiabarajas@slpecho.com gracefarley@slpecho.com
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Fair Use from Netflix
‘Sex Education’ doesn’t satisfy
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Emma Yarger emmayarger@slpecho.com For more content go to slpecho.com twitter.com/slpecho facebook.com/slpecho
Sophomore gymnast Rachel Stein said the weather also impacted the way their meet against St. Anthony Feb. 5 was conducted. “They were an hour late,” Stein said. “We started competing while they were warming up on the events. It was really weird and the whole competition was a mess.” Likewise, according to senior Quiz Bowl member Will Staib, a tournament for Feb. 8 was postponed because the host, Armstrong High School, was not in session that day. “I was a little bit disappointed, but I figured out it was rescheduled on another date and that date still works, so I’m not too mad about it,” Staib said. Other after-school activities impacted by the weather were driver’s
Weather-affected school days because of cold, snow Jan. 28 late start Jan. 29 closed Jan. 30 closed Jan. 31 closed Feb. 7 early release Feb. 8 late start Infographic Nolan Kelly Source metrowestconference.org
education and College Possible, according to District communications director Sara Thompson. Freshman Nordic skier Victoria Schmelzle said she was disappointed the annual conference meet was canceled and never rescheduled. “I was mad about it because I was pumped to do my first conference race, but I was glad that I got to go to Sections,” Schmelzle said. According to Ewald, the athletic department always errs on the side of caution when making such decisions, with the safety of the athletes in mind. “We got the contests in and it just made things a little bit more difficult in terms of scheduling but at the end of the day, keeping everybody safe has got to be the first and foremost thing,” Ewald said.
Rabbi sentenced for sexual misconduct
Maddie Schutte & Talia Lissauer maddieschutte@slpecho.com talialissauer@slpecho.com
he show “Sex Education” makes a surface level attempt to break the mold and only lands with inattentive audiences. This show is one of Netflix’s recent attempts at a hit. With a storyline full of tropes it is clear the show is trying too hard. The show’s awkward jokes bring a lighthearted aspect to a mediocre show.
Photo Abby Prestholdt
Snowed out: Park athletics and activities, including boys’ hockey, experienced cancellations and delays because of extreme winter weather. According to athletic director Andy Ewald, other schools across the metro area were also impacted by the cold.
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rominent St. Louis Park Rabbi Aryeh Leiv Cohen was arrested Feb. 1, 2018 on two counts of sexual misconduct in Ramsey County, according to a St. Paul police report. Cohen was officially sentenced to three years probation, Jan. 16, 2019, To be according honest, to Pioneer before these Press. In the allegations original were made, indictment I personally documents Cohen thought he faced up to was a good six years in guy. prison — three years for each David Khabie, count. junior
According to a St. Paul police report and indictment documents, Cohen faced two counts of sexual misconduct. The first count of engaging in electronic communication relating or describing sexual conduct with a child, and the second count being engaging in sexual conduct with someone believed to be a child, charged with intent to engage in communication relating to or describing sexual conduct with a minor. Junior David Khabie said he initially thought Cohen was a stand-up citizen, but in light of his trial and conviction, he now believes Cohen is deserving of jail time. “To be honest, before these allegations were made, I personally thought he was a good guy. He was a very well-known man. He had a great reputation,” Khabie said. “For something like this, I personally think he deserves jail time,” he said. “That’s obviously not up to me, but if that’s what the courts decided, so be it.” For more content go to slpecho.com
Used with permission by Danny Hunegs
Kick off: Senator Amy Klobuchar initiates presidential campaign at a rally Feb. 10. at Boom Island.
Klobuchar to run
Minnesota senator announces candidacy Dani Orloff & Noah Orloff daniorloff@slpecho.com noahorloff@slpecho.com
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fter Senator Amy Klobuchar proclaimed her campaign for the 2020 presidential election, sophomore Evelyn Gutzke said she is hopeful for more diversity in the White House. “I think she will (win) and has a lot of people supporting her,” Gutzke said. “I’m excited to see a woman as president, and I think she is amazing.” Klobuchar announced her candidacy Feb. 10 at Boom Island. Senior Brahim Bouzrara said he feels Klobuchar has built a strong support base within the Twin Cities. “It’s good we have someone from Minnesota who a lot of people endorse running for president,” Bouzrara said. Sophomore Sam Swisher said he does not believe Klobuchar will win the democratic nomination. “It’s a waste of money for her to run,” Swisher said. “I don’t think she’s a strong enough leader. I don’t think she is well-known enough to be the democratic nominee.”
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“I’m glad (the locker rooms) are going to be updated because, to be honest, they’re not doing too well right now. But it’s going to be really hard for the synchronized swimmers.
STUDENT LIFE
Bella Steward, sophomore
Echo Friday, February 15, 2019
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From blueprint to reality be able to utilize it pretty well. So I think it’s good that they’re renovating it,” Schmelzle said. Despite being used more frequently during the day, the gym locker rooms will be placed farther away from the B1 hallway, where the current girls’ locker room is, according to Meyers. “We would have loved to have had it the opposite way because (gym lockers) will be used more. It’s just the way that the space divided out to fit everything we use back here up here,” Meyers said. According to Meyers, ensuring the safety of the facilities and rooms was a priority in the designing process. “Since you can walk in and get entrance into the women’s locker room, we are trying to move that and keep it a little more secure,” Meyers said. “The nice part is this will secure the pool a little better, too. Although the doors are usually locked it will be nice to have that space secure.” Freshman Andre Barajas said he believes any renovations made to the high school will positively impact Park. “I’m happy that they’re doing renovations to it because our weight rooms are really small and compact right now, so for it to become better will be good for all of us,” Barajas said. Meyers said despite the challenges presented by facility improvements, the administration has worked to prevent any further disturbances. “It is a little bit of hassle for not having them available in the spring but it is the best, the quickest way we can do it so overall it is the least disruptive instead of stretching it out,” Meyers said. Meyers said students with lockers on walls in the B1 hallway bordering the locker rooms have received new locker assignments in preparation for construction. “They worked on that at the beginning of the year to reassign those. They shouldn’t have a locker in those hallways,” Meyers said.
Athletic facilities to be renovated this spring Abby Intveld & Dani Orloff abbyintveld@slpecho.com daniorloff@slpecho.com
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s freshman Victoria Schmelzle contemplates the upcoming renovations at the high school, she said there are other areas within the district she feels need improvement. “I would rather them renovate other stuff, but I think it would be good if they renovate the gym lockers because those are really small and old,” Schmelzle said. According to Principal Scott Meyers, under the $100.9 million bond referendum passed in 2017, renovations will be made to the high school locker rooms and weight room. Athletic director Andy Ewald said construction will begin in the spring. According to Meyers, the current locker room structure, with athletic and gym locker rooms combined, will be changed under the renovations. “They will be two separate locker rooms now,” Meyers said. “So, the girls’ and boys’ athletic ones will be locked all day long. Then similar to what we have right now, the gym lockers will be open, but then locked during classes and then open in between hours.” While he has yet to see the final plans, Ewald said the new fitness area will be an addition built onto the high school as opposed to renovating the current space. Through the changes, the present weight room space will be used for athletic department offices, according to Ewald. “It is going to be built on the outside of the activity center, not the parking lot side, but the circle side and there will be a fitness area and a weight room in there,” Ewald said. Schmelzle said she feels weight room renovators should be mindful of the growing district and student involvement in athletics. “I think that a lot of the equipment is pretty old, and it’s a small space for teams to
For more information concerning the impact of construction on sports teams see page 7.
Spring 2019 high school renovations •
Addition of new fitness facilities
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Remodeling district offices into classroom and lab spaces
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Adding new dining, commons, and central kitchen
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Relocation and addition of gym locker rooms
Infographic Maggie Klaers and Sophie Livingston Source slpschools.org
Art Maggie Klaers
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FEATURES
Echo Friday, February 15, 2019
Angel Clark, freshman
Math, yoga add up to stressfree equation
WHAT'S THE POINT
My first Senate testimony Yonah Davis yonahdavis@ slpecho.com
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hen the chair of the Minnesota Senate E-12 Finance and Policy Committee, Carla Nelson, called my name and invited me to begin my testimony my heart began to pound. I could hear myself speak as I presented my prepared remarks about the importance of personal finance education in high school in support of SF19. The bill mandates a required credit of personal finance education for high school graduation. Speaking before the committee What’s the reminded me of the POINT? Senate Get involved simulation in in the my ninth democratic grade civics process course. From the formalities of addressing the committee to the process of bringing a bill to law, the simulation was surprisingly realistic. Often, I feel disconnected from the important legislative work being done at the state level. National news and world crises overwhelm my news feed, and I am caught up in the never-ending cycle. Regretfully, I neglect to follow the important work being done by my elected representatives at the state level who work hard to improve our lives. The Senate hearing gave me a taste of what true democracy is like. Procedural pomp and circumstance aside, at the heart of the hearing, there was a desire to connect the needs of the people with the function of the government. From bills about new approaches to career education to army recruitment options, citizens spoke passionately about the issues that matter to them — and the legislators listened. Even though attending a hearing may seem like a boring or trivial use of time, I encourage everyone to attend at least one during their lifetime. The U.S. democratic system is designed to represent the people’s interests and testifying before the Senate is a fantastic way to share your voice. While it may seem more important to follow national news, often, local decisions have a greater impact.
(Doing a yoga class) would be cool. (It) would be better because you could take a break from all the work. That would be fun.
Mat donation opens sessions starting Feb. 21 Rachel Salzer rachelsalzer@slpecho.com
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ath teacher Bobby Otto said he was excited about the greater opportunity to share his passion of yoga and expand his teaching skills by creating a yoga club. A donation of old yoga mats from Lifetime Fitness in St. Louis Park will help make this possible. Otto said this donation arose after hearing from his instructor Corrine Saintey, the head of yoga at St. Louis Park Lifetime Fitness, that Lifetime Fitness was getting new mats, and he asked if they would consider donating the old mats to Park. “After (yoga) class one day, Corrine was talking about how they were getting new mats delivered, and I asked her if they were doing anything with the old mats,” Otto said. “She said that they weren’t, so I asked if they would want to donate them to the high school.”
Senior Marco Giovanelli said he’s interested in attending the class because he thinks yoga is a nice way to destress. “Hopefully going to his stress-free yoga class would reduce my stress enough to make me more productive that day,” Giovanelli said. Senior Gabby McCaa said she believes having this yoga class makes yoga more accessible for high school students. “It’s a way for high school students to stay active and work on their bodies without having to pay for an expensive yoga class,” McCaa said. According to Otto, the yoga mats are two-years old but in good condition since Lifetime Fitness cleans its mats regularly. “The nice thing about Lifetime is they are able to wash those yoga mats, so they are disinfected a bit better than most yoga mats might be,” Otto said. Junior Miriam Hope said the yoga sessions will benefit high school students because they will help relieve stress and encourages other teachers to share their passions with their students. “I think it’s a good stress reliever, and I think all teachers
Photo Abby Prestholdt
Yogis: Sophomore Maya Lee and Bobby Otto prepare to do yoga poses Feb. 11. Otto started a yoga club that will begin Feb. 21.
Orioles Morning Yoga • • • •
Every Thursday 7:45-8:30 a.m. Room B327 Classes start Feb. 21 Infographic Kaia Myers Source Bobby Otto
should think about pursuing their hobbies in a school environment,” Hope said. Otto said being able to provide yoga mats will help more students participate in yoga. “I think it will greatly increase the participation because there (are) only a few things that stop people from coming to a yoga class and a mat is one of them,” Otto said.
Muddy Paws Cheesecake moves locations New storefront makes connections Maggie Klaers maggieklaers@slpecho.com
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s Muddy Paws Cheesecake owner Tami Cabrera unpacked cake stands to prepare their new location, she reflected on the recent move and the store’s ability to receive more customers. “We just moved locations, about a mile away from our old location. The most important thing is we can offer our customers more here. We have more retail space. We have more kitchen space. We can bake more,” Cabrera said. According to Cabrera, Muddy Paws is collaborating with the Nest to have cheesecake available It's quite convenient for purchase since it's so cheap after Muddy Paws’ regular and you can get hours. there so fast. It's a “We’ve partwalkable distance nered with the Nest for aftertoo, which is nice. hours pick up. Chloe Blodgett, senior The 2:30-7 p.m.
Photo Carissa Prestholdt
Takes the cake: Muddy Paws Cheesecake's two most popular cheesecakes are turtle and raspberry swirl. Muddy Paws will be selling special cakes in honor of Valentine's Day in the shape of hearts until Feb. 14. window that we’re not open here, they are open and we can offer more,” Cabrera said. Cabrera said the move to their new location was influenced by Muddy Paws’ desire to work with and to be near students. “We’re super excited about working with the Nest, and all the great things that they are doing and working with the students. That’s definitely part of why (we) wanted to move to this area, to be close to the Nest and the students,” Cabrera said. According to senior Chloe Blodgett, Muddy Paws’ new location made it accessible for her to go there during lunch. “We left for lunch. We were on our way
to the gas station, and we just happened to drive by it,” Blodgett said. “It’s quite convenient since it’s so cheap, and you can get there so fast. It’s a walkable distance too, which is nice.” Senior Gaidah Azem said Muddy Paws had an inviting atmosphere and delicious cheesecake. “We went in, and it was really cute. They had all their awards up, and the menu was written out. The cheesecake is really good,” Azem said. Muddy Paws Cheesecake is open at its new location, from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Monday through Saturday at 3359 Gorham Ave.
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I wouldn't like to graduate early. It would be fun to graduate with people that you went to school with instead of graduating on your own.
FEATURES Echo Friday, February 15, 2019
Rodo Abdallah, sophomore
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IN THE SPOTLIGHT
Junior plans to graduate early Transfer student Ayan Ali earns credits abroad
Ayan Ali, junior Why are you graduating early? My mom took me out of the country (before I went to Park), and I went to a boarding school (in Somalia), and my boarding school was very strict when it came to educational topics and the education system. So I guess I did a lot of requirements over there, but it was more of electives here. But major electives that could either go into my English (or) my other requirements in the Minnesota State. What are the qualifications that you have to have in order to graduate early? I technically have four years of English, ninth to 12th. I got an extra year because I took Native American Studies with a bunch of seniors when I was a sophomore. My counselor told me that I was very advanced. I get bored in my other classes, and my parents didn’t want me taking any more electives because I already had a lot of electives, so she put me in that class. But at the time I didn’t know it was a senior class. What made you decide to graduate early? To start my career earlier, because the sooner I start, the sooner I will be close to finishing whatever I am majoring in. And not only that, but my mom is single, so I guess she
Photo Samiya Mohamed
Study: Junior Ayan Ali works on a packet during her IB English SL class Feb. 11 in C153. She was able to complete additional English credits by taking elective credits at her school in Somalia that are required credits at Park. has to do the hard work. I grew up watching my parents suffer. I wouldn’t say suffer because there are really poor people, not like that, but suffer like a refugee. My mother is a refugee from Somalia, and our parents are the second generation of Somalis here, and they are having a harder time learning the English language, working and providing for their families. I just wanted to step up and say (to myself), “You know what, you’re going to be working in a field you love, you’re going to have a career you are totally interested and crazy about, while helping your parents.” Do you have any plans for after graduation? Yes. I want to be the first in my family to attend a four-year
university. I got the Golden Gopher ticket for the University of Minnesota, so I hope that goes well. I’m also applying to St. Thomas, Hamline and others that are out of the state, too. I’m from Seattle, Washington, so University of Washington, too. Some of them are offering me scholarships, but I want to go to a state university with a science and engineering field, not only for me, but to be the first one in my family to go to a four-year university. Do you have any idea of want career you would want to pursue? Yes, chemical engineering. I really Sam St. Clair exceed in all my science classes. samstclair@slpecho.com
ACTIVITIES & AWARDS Upperclassmen return from Israel
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fter attending the Alexander Muss High School program in Israel, junior Miriam Hope said she enjoyed her time abroad. “Overall, I would say the experience was hard and challenging, but worth it and fun,” Hope said. “There were even some kids on the program who weren't Jewish, and I think they were so happy about it. I definitely would suggest (the program) to everybody.” Senior Leila Raymond, another program attendee, said she most enjoyed a trip to the desert.
Photo Ruby Stillman
Listen up: Alexander Muss High School in Israel teacher Lisa Biton tells students a story on Mount Gilboa Dec. 4. Park students returned from Israel Jan. 22. “One of my favorite tee’ools — otherwise known as field trips — we went on was when we visited a bedouin tent in the Negev, which is the desert,” Raymond said.
Gabe Kaplan gabekaplan@slpecho.com
Park competes at Winter One Act Sections
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fter “The Amish Project” won the first round of the Winter One Act competition, it fell short of qualifying for State, according to theater director Jodi Hatzenbeller. Hatzenbeller said Park performed well, and got third place. The Academy of Holy Angels took first, and Washburn took second. Freshman cast member Shira Hanovich said although the cast members felt satisfied with their performance, they were frustrated with the results. “We are proud of ourselves for what we did,” Hanovich said. Emma Leff, Marta Hill & Anika Hanson emmaleff@slpecho.com, martahill@slpecho.com & anikahanson@slpecho.com
Photo Carissa Prestholdt
Take note: Senior Morganna Oberdorfer takes notes while rehearsing for “The Amish Project.” The cast did thorough research on their characters and the tragedy the play is based on so they could accurately portray the characters in the story."The Amish Project was performed at Sections Feb. 2 at the Academy of Holy Angels.
For more content go to slpecho.com
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IN-DEPTH
Echo Friday, February 15, 2019
Learning to fight back Defense essential for all genders
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Maria Perez Barriga & Samiya Mohamed mariaperezbarriga@slpecho.com samiyamohamed@slpecho.com
eeing the number of stories about violence and assault increase, senior Lindsey Epstein said the need for students to be well-versed in selfdefense has become more important than ever.
I think if more people could defend themselves, I don’t see why that’s a bad thing. That means more people could be protected. Fynn Hammer, sophomore
Signs of distress According to Epstein, who participates in taekwondo, violence has increased, so self-defense is not only important for female demographics, but for anyone in the progressive world. “In today’s society, it’s a lot more dangerous because of rising situations with gun violence, and I think people find it important to take (self-defense classes) so that they know how to defend themselves,” Epstein said. According to Ben Newman, martial arts center Warrior’s Cove instructor, potential customers say they want to take classes, not to earn a black belt, but to learn how to defend themselves and others. “The reason they want to train is that they want to assess different skills, and they want to feel they could protect themselves if they need to or protect their family members,” Newman said. According to teacher Timothy Donahue, self-defense could be helpful in surviving dangerous situations where an attacker poses a serious threat. “It’s a good thing to be able to try and survive the situation. I think (self-defense) is good for people to know,” Donahue said. Donahue said he has always wanted to take a self-defense class like science teacher Alan Wachutka. According to Wachutka, he took taekwondo when he was younger and realized it was relaxing. “I trained in taekwondo, and I will probably go back but I really liked the opportunity to get rid of energy throughout the day. I find that to be a stress reliever,” Wachutka said. According to American Karate Studio instructor Elena Middlekauss, recent news of school shootings has driven more students to find methods of protecting themselves. “As sad as it is to say, there has been more rising dangers of school shooters, and kids want to be able to do their part on how to defend themselves, which is really sweet but also sad,” Middlekauss said. Junior Jaye Townsend said she wanted to join a self-defense class to protect herself in dangerous environments and was entertained while taking the class. “I always wanted to learn to how to fight, but it’s also good to know how to defend myself if I ever need to,” Townsend said. “It was cool, we had fun while also learning stuff on a serious topic.” Sophomore Grace Kanyinku said she wants to begin taking self-defense classes before living on her own. “A little before I start living alone I want to take self-defense
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I think that it’s really important for people to take self-defense no matter their gender, or sex or age because it’s important for people to know how to defend themselves in case of an attack. Lindsey Epstein, senior
Basic defensive movements Wrist grip release • When an attacker grabs your wrist, pulling back won’t work. Rotate your wrist to be in line with the weakest part of their grip: where their thumb meets their fingers. • From there, plant your feet on the ground strongly. • Finally, yank downward or upward by bending your elbow in a quick motion.
Choke hold escape • Attacker is weaker if they hold you up, so squat down to force them to do that. • Step forward, squat, then use your hands to pop the underside of the attacker’s arms to get their hands off of you.
Kick to the knee • With the foot that you’re not kicking with, have your heel toward the attacker. • The move incapacitates the attacker and is hard to block. • The kick is best if you’re on the ground and the attacker isn’t, or if you’re both standing. • Easily done without the chance of having your foot grabbed and gives you time to run away.
Infographic Katie Hardie Photo Illustration by Sam St. Clair & Maggie Klaers Source Gizmodo Media Group, Independent.co.uk
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I think it is good to be prepared. It is a bit silly to be worried about self-defense in school.
IN-DEPTH
Echo Friday, February 15, 2019
Andy Friederichsen, senior
classes because the truth of the matter is it is really hard being a woman in America,” Kanyinku said. Kanyinku said rising instances of bullying contribute to the need for students to take self-defense classes. “People are bullying now more than ever for many different reasons, whether it’s for your religion, your sexuality (or) your gender,” Kanyinku said.
Safety for all Epstein said although many associate the need for selfdefense classes with women, everyone should consider taking classes. “I think that it’s really important for people to take self-defense no matter their gender, or sex or age because it’s important for people to know how to defend themselves in case of an attack,” Epstein said. Power and Finesse Fitness karate instructor Luis Ocampo said he thinks more women should join self-defense classes to learn about how to protect themselves in dangerous situations. “I think females (are more interested) because it’s a great thing to understand how to be safe and for any events with any bad experience,” Ocampo said. Epstein said they believe there are more self-defense classes for women because usually females are seen as victims. “I feel like there are more women self-defense classes because usually if we think (about) the stereotypical attacker, it’s usually men attacking women,” Epstein said. Ocampo said Power and Finesse Fitness offers free classes for women as a service to the St. Louis Park community. “We love our community and so sometimes we do some free classes just so they can see what it is about. They can take (more classes) after that if they want to or not,” Ocampo said. Middlekauss said she has equal numbers of men and women in her classes, although more males attend right now, the younger students tend to be heavily female. “I think it’s pretty evenly split,” Middlekauss said. “Since newer generations coming in there is now more girls.” Townsend said she took a free selfdefense class at War-
rior’s Cove, which taught about mixed martial arts. She said classes are available for families and for young people. “They had an opening class, which was free, but it was really easy and they have mixed martial arts classes and they have one for family and kids,” Townsend said. Newman said while Warrior’s Cove has a program for both men and women, they also offer free self-defense seminars exclusively for women once a month. “Our full program is paid for men and women, but (the seminars for women) are a free way to get a good feel for it, and achieve in something that you enjoy and to get a basic level of what self-defense you should be thinking about,” Newman said.
Seeking empowerment Kanyinku said she thinks bullying can occur for both males and females and different genders utilize self-defense differently. “Bullying happens to both men and women so I feel like both girls and guys need to take the self-defense classes for different reasons,” Kanyinku said. According to Middlekauss, self-defense classes are beneficial for health because they are a form of exercise as well as a way to survive potentially dangerous situations. “I think it’s important because it’s a sport and it’s a good way to get exercise,” Middlekauss said. “I tell them that it’s important to know how to defend yourself.” Ocampo said six to 16 girls generally attend his self-defense classes. “I teach karate classes and self-defense for women and there is a website they can go to, it’s Power and Finesse Fitness,” Ocampo said. Wachutka said self-defense helps people increase their confidence and helps them to feel good about themselves. “It benefits many people as part of focusing their energies determining what they are capable of,” Wachutka said. Newman said involvement in martial arts can be a positive impact on self-image. “One type seminar definitely won’t have a huge impact as far as changing your life,” Newman said. “(But) it could really help you with your confidence and skills. I just encourage people to step out of your comfort zone and try out a session with us or another school.”
Photo Illustration by Yonah Davis & Maggie Klaers
Self-defense class proves helpful Marta Hill martahill@slpecho.com
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hile I am lucky to say I have never needed to use selfdefense, the stories I see on social media show the possibility is real. Because of that I, along with three friends, recently attended a women’s self-defense class at Warrior’s Cove in St. Louis Park. Warrior’s Cove offers free monthly women’s self-defense classes. It was a very worthwhile experience. I now feel much more prepared for a potentially harmful situation. During the class, most seemed to enjoy themselves, despite the severity of the purpose behind the class. We covered what to do if someone threatening approaches you, how to poke someone’s eyes, how to get out from under a person who is attacking you and much more. I understand we were not in a high risk scenario and were not performing as we would in a real situation to avoid injuring our partners, but all of the skills we worked on seemed possible. There is a misconception that to defend yourself you have to be able to do all the fancy flips and kicks, but you really don’t. A simple knee to the groin or finger to the eye can do the trick. I was disappointed my friends and I were What’s the the only teens at POINT? the class. Self-defense Be active in is especially protecting relevant to yourself teens. If the hour against and a half on attacks a Sunday can make the difference between defending yourself and being severely harmed by an attacker, it is definitely worth it. One of the most applicable tricks the instructors told us was to carry Mace, an aerosol selfdefense spray. When approached by someone threatening, Mace can be an effective deterrent to an attack. Unfortunately, according to Park’s student handbook, students are not allowed to have Mace on school property. While this rule is valid, I think students should be allowed to carry Mace because the need may arise. If I was leaving the school alone at night, I would want some form of protection, like Mace, with me. That kind of situation could affect any one in the building, including teachers and administrators. I would recommend attending a self-defense class to everyone because it is important to know what to do in a bad situation. While it is unfortunate that this is something teens need to be thinking about, it is the reality of the world we live in.
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SPORTS
Echo Friday, February 15, 2019
OUT OF THE PARK
Running to my passion Lucy zumBrunnen lucyzumbrunnen@ slpecho.com
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’ve always struggled with finding a sport I like. I went from tennis to soccer and failed an attempt at figure skating. Nothing involved with the word “endurance” was even on my radar. I was running out of time to find a sport that I could grow and excel in. This undeniable fact scared me. This quickly changed. My dad ran cross country and track throughout high school and college. He encouraged me to try my hand at the sport he loved so dearly, thinking that I would have inherited his same skills. I thought otherwise, and when he brought up trying cross country, my answer was, “You’re joking, right?” I guess he wasn’t, because less than a week later I found myself walking into my first practice. I’d be lying if I said I didn’t almost turn back and give up. What’s But I the decided to stick POINT? with it, and soon I found my sport. I’m not exaggerating when I say cross country has been one of the most impactful things in my life. Through my sport I have met some of the best people and gone through some of my toughest and most fulfilling experiences. The feeling of crossing the finish line is like no other. Not only do I have a great team, but we go through the hard times together and hold each other up when we aren’t strong enough. My sport allow me to meet new people and allow me to push to a point I didn’t know I was capable of. Getting to this point is not only challenging physically, but mentally. I’ve had many races where it’s hard to keep going and stay strong. But it keeps me going to think of my team and replacing the bad thoughts with the good. My sport have helped me with so much these past years. I can say I would not be the same without it. Running has helped me become the person who I am today- athletic, driven, committed and most importantly it has taught me to be proud of my accomplishments.
Find your sport
As long as (synchro) is practicing and it’s a location that’s suitable, they should still be able to do well. Matthew Tucker, sophomore
Gymnastics prepares for Sections Team focuses on high scores Tamar Gewirtz & Hayley Westwood tamargewirtz@slpecho.com hayleywestwood@slpecho.com
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ccording to sophomore Marissa Boettcher, the entire girls’ gymnastics season leads up to the Sections meet, which will take place Feb. 16. “Sections is our biggest meet of the season. It is what we train for,” Boettcher said. “(It is important) to be prepared because there are good teams there, and we want to be on our A-game.” Coach Dawn Thielen said the team is focusing on refining techniques and adding new skills to result in higher scores. “We are sharpening the routines we have and seeing if we can add any new skills to our routines before we go,” Thielen said. Sections determines if gymnasts will receive individual placement or if the entire team will make it to State. “The meet is also a good way to gauge how we can do in the future and where we are at compared to the other schools,” sophomore Rachel Stein said. According to Thielen, the girls could advance to State depending on the results of this meet. “Sections (is) our last meet of the season,” Thielen said. “The top team from Sections, and the top five athletes from each event and all-around advance to the State tournament.” Boettcher said the most important aspect of the meet is not to win the entire tournament, but for the gymnasts to attempt Marissa Boettcher, sophomore to beat their personal bests.
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We are going to reach our own personal goals.
Photo Abby Prestholdt
Strut your stuff: Freshman Sophia Romero competes her floor routine in a gymnastics meet against Hopkins Feb. 8. “We are not necessarily going into it to win it all,” Boettcher said. “We are going in to reach our own personal goals and get personal best scores.” The meet is set to take place at 11 a.m. Feb. 16 at Minnetonka High School.
Construction will cause practice changes Synchronized swimming to practice at middle school, PSI Marta Hill martahill@slpecho.com
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ccording to junior Ellen Poulter, the synchronized swimming team will not be able to maintain their team building traditions that center around the locker room. The upcoming locker room construction will prohibit the team from using the locker rooms and growing together as a team. “Personally the biggest impact the construction has is on our team dynamic. Part of the community is the way we set up our locker room to be super inspirational,” Poulter said. “Obviously we will still spend time with each other, but we won’t be able to have our inspirational posters and all the other things.” According to assistant coach Jessica Gust, synchronized swimming practices will be relocated because of the construction at Park. “Practices are moving due to the construction for the referendum. The locker rooms are going to be shut down, and the whole pool hallway is going to be blocked off,” Gust said.
Gust said the team normally has two practice locations, one of which will be changing this season. “In a normal season we have a group of girls who practice at the middle school and a group of girls who practice at the high school, so the change is that we will have a group at the middle school and a group at PSI,” Gust said. Poulter said the construction is causing issues with morning practices because of pool availability. “From the last time I talked to our coaches, we think we will have to practice in the mornings on Tuesdays and Thursdays at Central so that we have more time to get ready. On Monday, Wednesday and Friday we will probably do weight room training,” Poulter said. According to Poulter, the construction will be worth it in the end, it is just causing issues this season. “I imagine the locker rooms will be significantly nicer than the ones we have right now, and hopefully we will be able to use those locker rooms next year, which will be really awesome,” Poulter said.
Photo Ruthie Posada
Raise the roof: Freshman Averie Chism throws her hands up into the air beside junior Tjessa Arradondo during a synchronized swimming practice Feb. 2. The synchronized swimming team will be moving its practice location because of construction at the high school.
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(Emmet going to State) is a great thing for Park. (Our) sports are having a little bit of a hard time lately. That’s a good thing that we’re going to State.
SPORTS
Echo Friday, February 15, 2019
Sydney Price, freshman
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MEET THE ATHLETE
Who William Pinney Grade Junior Sport Hockey
Push to the limit: Senior Emmett Foner skis during a Nordic race in the 2017-2018 season. Foner qualified for State in the 2018-2019 season and is set to compete at Giant’s Ridge. Photo Echo file photo
Senior qualifies for Nordic State race Emmett Foner competes Feb. 14 Kaia Meyers kaiameyers@slpecho.com
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n order to achieve his fiveyear long goal of skiing at State, senior Emmett Foner chose an unconventional strategy. “For that second race, I just sprinted the first half of it and burned out all of my energy to dishearten the skiers so that they’d lose sight and give up. All they were shooting for was to get up to (the sixth) spot, so I guess it all worked out.” Foner said. Coach John Dyste said he is proud of Foner for qualifying for the State race. “I was really excited. I mean, Emmett’s worked very hard for five years now and to have him finally achieve what he’s been
trying to achieve for so long was really amazing,” Dyste said. Foner said the skiers compete in a regular skate race and then, based on the results of that race, compete in a pursuit classic race. “At Sections, after the first race, I was in the fifth spot for individuals. It’s like a pursuit race where you go based off of how far back you were from the first place racer,” Foner said. Dyste said the Nordic team will bring more skiers up to Giant’s Ridge to race. “The Coaches Association puts on a relay the day before State,” Dyste said. “It’s a mixture of skiers that we bring to get those younger skiers some opportunities to see the State meet before they go.” Dyste said his goal for Foner is to place in the top 20 in the first race. “My hope is that he’ll come out in the top 20. If he does, then he’ll have the ability to have a classic race,” Dyste said. “There’s 120 skiers who
Why did you decide to start playing hockey? Growing up my dad set me up for all sorts of sports, and I didn’t really like it. I wasn’t really a sports guy growing up. Hockey kind of clicked from there. I absolutely loved hockey from the start. Why did you decide to play goalie? I just like goalie, and I am able to be in control of the game and the outcome of the game depends on me in a way.
Photo Carissa Presdtholt
A little elbow grease: Senior Emmett Foner scrapes his skis after waxing them Feb. 12. following a Nordic ski race.
Foner’s season statistics Sections Skate Place 14 Time 11:52 Sections Classic Place 6 Time 25:04.2 Sections Combined Place 15 Time 25:04.1 Infographic Isabel Kjaer Source Gopher State Events
made it, so if you come out of the first race and you’re somewhere between 30 and 60, you almost have no chance of going anywhere because everyone is starting half a second apart.” According to Foner, he hopes to place in the top 30 at the State meet at Giant’s Ridge. “My goal is just to end up somewhere in the top fourth,” Foner said. Information current at press time Feb. 13. For updated information concerning Foner’s State results, see slpecho.com for this information.
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Join Echo
How long have you been playing hockey? I am not sure of the year, but since second grade.
Applications are available starting Feb. 19 in C363. * Reporter applicants who have taken the journalism class are preferred.
How has your season been going so far? I think pretty good. I do love the guys on the team. I feel like a brotherhood. We don’t get the outcomes that we really want some games, but it’s been going fine. What do you like best about playing hockey? It’s really fun, and also you’re able to develop a lot of friendships along the way through hockey. Also, you can play hockey year-round, so I like it a lot. What are your future goals for hockey? Like a lot of hockey players, my goal is to play in the National Hockey League (NHL) one day, but it is a really hard move, but I think I can do it. What is something you want to improve on? I really want to get better at active hands and reacting to the puck more, which will help me further in my game. Do you have any plans for next year? I have been talking to the Sioux Falls Stampede in the USHL. Hopefully, I want to go play before the high school season and after the high school season. Do you have any role models that you look up to? Henrik Lundqvist, he’s a goalie in the NHL. He has a lot of foundations that help people, and he’s really involved with his fan base and in the community. I look up to him in a way. Noah Orloff noahorloff@slpecho.com
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10 OPINIONS
Echo Friday, February 15, 2019
Echo Editor-in-chiefs: *Marta Hill, *Dani Orloff Managing editors: *Amaia Barajas, *Grace Farley, *Abby Intveld, *Yonit Krebs, *Sam St. Clair Photo editors: Claire Bargman, Abby Prestholdt, Carissa Prestholdt Design editors: Creston Halstead, *Isabel Kjaer, *Maggie Klaers Copy editors: *Jenna Cook, Emma Leff, *Noah Orloff, *Emma Yarger Assistant copy editor: Ruthie Posada News editor: *Sofia Seewald Features editor: *Kaia Myers In-depth editor: *Evelyn Nelson Special projects & profiles editor: Talia Lissauer Sports editors: Sophie Olmen, Sadie Yarosh Opinions editor: *Gabriel Kaplan Entertainment editor: David Bryant Social media editors: Ruby Stillman, Breanna Thompson, Hayley Westwood Broadcast editor: Yonah Davis Business managers: Anika Hanson, Rachel Salzer Video editor: Izzy Kanne Staff: Neb Bekele, Henry Brettingen, Tamar Gewirtz, Tenzin Gyaldatsang, Katie Hardie, Carly Joseph, Nolan Kelly, Samantha Klepfer, Sophia Livingston, Alejandro ManzanoGomez, Ethan Meisler, Samiya Mohamed, Maria Perez-Barriga, Megan Raatz, Ben Sanford, Kate Schneider, Maddie Schutte, Jade Shionoya, Emily Ziessman, Lucy zumBrunnen, Adin Zweigbaum Principal: Scott Meyers Printer: North Star Media Adviser: Lori Keekley *Denotes editorial board member MEDIA POLICIES The Echo is the official studentproduced newspaper of St. Louis Park Senior High School. It is published triweekly for the school’s students, staff and community. The Echo is a designated forum for student expression in which students make all decisions of content without prior review from school officials. The adviser will not act as a censor, but will advise students. Students have the final decision on all content. The Echo will work to avoid bias and/or favoritism. We will strive to make our coverage and content meaningful and interesting to all our readers. We will make every effort to avoid printing libel, obscenities, innuendo and material that threatens to disrupt the learning process or is an invasion of privacy. We will avoid electronic manipulation that alters the truth of a photograph unless clearly labeled as a photo illustration. Staff editorials represent the opinion of the editorial board arrived at by discussion and will not be bylined. Bylined articles are the opinion of the individual writers and do not necessarily reflect the views of the Echo staff or administration as a whole. The Echo welcomes reader input. Letters to the editor and suggestions must be signed and should be no longer than 250 words and may be emailed to slpecho@gmail.com or submitted in room C275. Emailed letters must be verified prior to publication. We will not necessarily publish all letters received and reserve the right to ask the writer to edit for length and clarity. Anonymous letters wherein the Echo does not know the identity of the writer will not be printed. Advertisements will be sought from local businesses and school clubs and sports. We maintain the right to reject any ads we believe to be false, misleading, inappropriate or harmful. The Echo does not necessarily endorse the products or services offered in these advertisements. NSPA Hall of Fame member; 2011, 2016, 2017 NSPA Print Pacemaker Finalist; 2013, 2014, 2015, 2018 National Print Pacemaker Award Recipient; 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2019 Online Pacemaker Finalist; 2018 NSPA Online Pacemaker, CSPA; 2013 CSPA Gold Crown; 2015 CSPA Hybrid Gold Crown; 2012, 2014, 2016, 2017, 2018 CSPA Silver Crown; JEM All-State.
It will be difficult for people who maybe don’t have transportation to get (to Sno Daze) ... Some people won’t be able to go if they wanted to. Paris Lim, freshman
OUR PERSPECTIVE
Embrace Sno Daze dance relocation
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lthough many students find the idea of dancing in the middle school cafeteria unappealing, it offers high schoolers the opportunity to have the dance. For the past few years, the Sno Daze dance has been in the high school Fieldhouse. However this year, the event will be at the middle school because of basketball competitions in the district. The Echo Editorial Board believes students should make the best of this less-than-ideal situation. Dances like Sno Daze are not about the location, they are about who you go with and the memories you make. While some have suggested moving the dance to another location, doing so would likely raise prices. In order to keep the dance accessible, it is essential that it remains on school property. Although the location has a lower capacity than the high school’s Fieldhouse, there shouldn’t be an issue as the dance tends to have a lower turnout than other dances anyway. This will prevent the
Art Maggie Klaers
venue from feeling empty, as it did while at the Fieldhouse. The Echo Editorial Board recognizes the middle school’s decentralized location within the district could make it harder for students to find transportation if they live far away. Because of this, the Board believes the administration should provide buses for those attending who need transportation from the high school to the middle school. Although this could increase the ticket price slightly, providing transportation
could increase accessibility. Transportation issues should not prevent anyone from going so the Board also encourages attendees to offer students a ride if they are able. This ensures that every student who wishes to go to Sno Daze can. Don’t let this location change deter you from attending Sno Daze, because high school is not about glitzy dances at high-end venues. Going forward, students should embrace the throwback and try to have fun with friends, for that is what matters.
POINT COUNTERPOINT
St. Louis Park plans to buy body cameras for police Discussion surrounds the city’s decision to implement body-worn cameras for officers by the end of 2019, according to the police. Cameras ineffective
Police cameras necessary Police camera installation benefits community Kaia Myers kaiamyers@slpecho.com
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he city’s decision to use body-worn cameras is an excellent choice as it will help protect both police officers and the public. Body-worn cameras (BWCs) provide a witness for encounters between the public and police officers. This perspective is valuable as it can be used to justify the actions of officers or obtain justice for civilians. In recent years, the Black Lives Matter movement — among other socially motivated groups — has brought light to the need for accountability of law enforcement. The use of BWCs can address this issue by creating transparency between the police and the public. The cameras can also help protect police from false claims of misconduct by providing an additional view on difficult situations. Although BWCs are costly, their use makes them more than worth it. Cameras can lead to public trust of law enforcement, which is essential to a peaceful society. The adoption and use of BWCs by St. Louis Park police will encourage a safer city for all.
Cost of cameras would be better spent elsewhere
What’s the cost?
Megan Raatz meganraatz@slpecho.com
Pro •
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Savings on investigation proceedings predicted between $2,909 and $3,178 Quicker resolution of complaints Increased transparency with the public to build trust
Con • • •
Will cost $3.5 million to outfit 3,000 officers Invasion of privacy of public and officers Additional training necessary
Infographic Ethan Meisler Source Department of Justice
To yoga mats: Lets hope they wash them first.
fter reading the body-worn camera policy, it became apparent that the devices are too pricy and their effectiveness is still unproven. The primary issue with body-worn cameras (BWCs) is the cost. According to the Bureau of Justice Assistance, it would cost around $1,166 to outfit each officer. When considering how many officers must be equipped with a camera, the pricetag becomes extreme. We must also consider the cost of storing the massive amount of video from the cameras. In addition, the usage of body-worn cameras in law enforcement is a relatively new practice, meaning there has been little time for their effectiveness to be researched. Instead of investing in BWCs right now, St. Louis Park should wait to see if costs drop, as they likely will as more police forces adopt similar policies. The city should also wait to see if it is proven that they are effective in preventing police brutality and protecting the public in the first place, or else they entirely unnecessary.
To Sno Daze: The past is in the past.
To the Oscars: My “Favourite” was “Black Panther.”
Art Maggie Klaers
Y.D, A.B, J.C.
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I found the (dance proposal) very disrespectful and immature. I can’t even fathom how somebody would think it was funny to do that. Amelia Ryan, junior
OPINIONS
Echo Friday, February 15, 2019
11
Hateful sign at Minnetonka High School fuels anti-Semitism Poster represents bigoted microcosm Tamar Gewirtz tamargewirtz@slpecho.com
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hen a Minnetonka High School student asked another to Sweethearts using an antiSemitic sign referencing Hitler, the incident was felt throughout Minnesota. As a Jew living just one suburb away, the anti-Semitic sign shook me. Initially, I was confused as to how the couple could be so insensitive. I am not surprised, however, that such an event would take place in today’s society. The incident is a result of a larger problem. The Trump administration perpetuates hate. Singling out specific groups, as seen in the way they respond to and treat immigrants as well as transgender people, banning them from the military. Thus, it is reasonable to say we can expect little else other than ignorant citizens to follow suit. When it is deemed OK to spread hate, especially by our leaders, hateful people will not hesitate to do so. I do not know whether the high schoolers were bigots or whether they thought they were making a joke. These situations are not
only a result of accepting hate but of accepting ignorance. Perhaps then, it is not so astonishing to discover one-fifth of millennials have never heard of the Holocaust, according to CBS News. There is no doubt that Holocaust education exists, and for the majority of people, the mass genocide is a serious topic. I myself have relatives who were victims of the Holocaust. Growing up surrounded by Holocaust survivor stories, it stuns me that someone could be so inconsiderate regarding genocide. I understand they are ignorant and young, however, I cannot dismiss this incident. This should be an opportunity for those who are ignorant or hateful to learn more. By avoiding the past and by failing to educate future generations, people begin to forget what happened. Furthermore, as Sno Daze quickly approaches, students should be mindful of signs they use to ask another student to the dance. As we move forward with our lives, it is not only crucial to remember the importance of learning the past and educating future generations, but to be aware of our actions. By doing so, we avoid the dangers of forgetting the Holocaust and trivializing it with jokes.
STRONGER
THAN HATE
Art Creston Halstead
Military transgender ban neglects values Ban promotes systematic transphobia Maddie Schutte maddieschutte@slpecho.com
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he Supreme Court recently voted in favor of President Donald Trump’s bigoted and disrespectful ban on transgender individuals from serving in our military, paving the way for more hate to thrive in our society. How can we tell people who are willing to die for our country they can’t because of their gender identity? My heart broke seeing the 5-4 Supreme Court decision in support of this ban because one of my best friends is a transgender person. I have been there to see him transition, and I have seen the hardships that come with it. He
Art Maggie Klaers
PARK TRAIL I want some cheesecake.
undoubtedly not only deserves the world, but the exact same rights as any cisgender person receives without question. Trump tweeted in 2017 claiming the ban will relieve the military of medical costs for transgender people, but only about 0.5 percent of our military are transgender, and just 2 percent of them will seek medical assistance, according to Forbes. In addition, the military would only spend a few million dollars total on all reassignment surgeries annually, according to the Washington Post. This decision is a slap in the face to any young transgender person trying to find a place in this world. According to the Human Rights Campaign, 29.9 percent of transgender females and 41.8 percent of transgender males have attempted suicide as an adolescent. The struggles of transitioning are painful enough, and now our own president is making transgender
people well How can we aware that tell people they aren’t who are willrespected ing to die for or valued. our country 2017 that they can’t had the because of highest their gender number of identity? fatal hate crimes against transgender people and 2018 was a close second, according to the Human Rights Campaign. Banning transgender people from serving in our military opens the door for even more transphobia to become a societal norm and for these acts of hatred to persist. Our society will never progress with hate at the forefront of who we are. It astounds me that we act as if we are incapable of accepting people for who they are, when we just as easily can be known as a country that respects each other. Choosing to love each other is the bottom line.
Lucy zumBrunnen lucyzumbrunnen@slpecho.com
How do you even make cheesecake?
? + ? = ?
Oh wait, I’ll go to Muddy Paws.
Muddy Paws !
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12 ENTERTAINMENT
Echo Friday, February 15, 2019
I want “Roma” to win at the Oscars because a lot of the other films are just blockbusters, and I thought it was really well done. Quinn Whitlow, senior
OSCAR NOMINATIONS
Fair use from Carlos Somante/Netflix
The 91st Academy Awards will air at 7 p.m. Feb. 24 on ABC.
‘Roma’ proves to be everything and more Simple story portrays beautiful reality Fair use from Fox Spotlight
‘The Favourite:’ worthy of its title
Amaia Barajas amaiabarajas@slpecho.com
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Abby Intveld abbyintveld@slpecho.com
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espite the generally negative attitude toward historical movies, “The Favourite” is a hilariously absurd history lesson to enjoy. The period piece tells the tale of frail Queen Anne (Olivia Colman), who suffers of gout and depression, while England is at war with France. Close friend of the Queen, Lady Sarah (Rachel Weisz) and new servant, Abigail (Emma Stone), fight for the Queen’s approval. The ridiculous inability of Queen Anne to rule England provides a jarring two-hour exposé on the disintegrating leader. From sarcastic one-liners to overdramatic and manipulative situations, “The Favourite” leads a captivating plot throughout the entire progression of the movie. This historical comedy is certainly not a film to overlook in the Oscars.
lthough it is in black and white, “Roma” is one of the most colorful films of the year. “Roma,” directed by Alfonso Cuarón, is a beautiful tale of a Mexico City nanny’s daily life. The movie itself isn’t an epic story of a nanny and her family, but a simple portrayal of how everyday life is epic in its own sense. The movie follows the life of Cleo (Yalitza Aparicio) as she cares for a family of six in the upper-middle-class neighborhood Colonia Roma. This exceptional film is heart-wrenching and at times comedic, making it a well-rounded movie that will invoke a wide array of emotions. The movie is neither dialogue nor plot heavy, but that simplicity is one of the reasons it is so beautiful. Cuarón made a fantastic decision to film most scenes in a real Mexican
neighborhood, making the scenes less Hollywood. The details of the house, or the scene when Cleo is on a roof cleaning clothes, make the movie much more authentic. It creates an unmistakable vibe that makes me feel like I’m home. Aparicio is the star of the movie because she put so much heart into her performance. Her portrayal of a nanny working for a wealthy family was simple, which is exactly what the character needed. “Roma” wasn’t made for over-the-top acting — it’s a movie about real life and Aparicio perfectly captured that. The most important part of “Roma,” the part that warmed my heart, was the fact that an indigenous Mixtec woman was at the forefront of a mainstream movie. Mexican media is often white-washed, so to see Aparicio center stage made me feel proud. Not only does “Roma” stand out from the rest by telling the underrepresented story of an native Mexican woman, the film has the potential to make history by becoming the first to win both Best Picture and Best Foreign Language Film. Available on Netflix, “Roma” is easily accessible and an essential add-on to your watchlist before the Oscars.
Three must-see Best Picture nominations that have been overlooked.
Fair use from Focus Features
‘BlacKkKlansman:’ blunt, brilliant Abby Intveld abbyintveld@slpecho.com
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he history of racism in the United States is not often represented in films — especially not in comedic dramas — but “BlacKkKlansman” depicts America’s past and present accurately. The film explores the astounding true story of Ron Stallworth (John David Washington), a black detective who infiltrates the KKK with the help of colleague Flip Zimmerman (Adam Driver). Throughout the movie, director Spike Lee balances brilliant humor with a blunt representation of racism. The set and clothing is also important to highlight, with every little detail appealing to the 1970s environment that is vital to the movie. “BlacKkKlansman” is a must-see for the upcoming Academy Awards, because it stands a real chance of winning among the other outstanding nominations.
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Feb. 24
Now - April 28
Rock band SWMRS prepares to release its fourth album “Berkley’s on Fire,” maintaining punk and experimental elements.
The imaginary world full of dragons and Vikings returns to theaters with “How to Train Your Dragon: The Hidden World.”
Alternative rock band Young the Giant host an 18+ concert at the Palace Theaters. Doors open 6:30 p.m. and tickets start at $30 on Etix.
Witness the breathtaking photography and visual art of Erik Johansson at the American Swedish Institute of Art. Admission costs $6 for students.
METRO METRO AT A GLANCE David Bryant davidbryant@slpecho.com Photos used with permission from Fueled by Ramen, Dreamwork Pictures, Erik Johansson