WG Echo February 2022 Issue

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V olum e 1 0 7 I s s ue 5 Februa ry 2 0 2 2 1 0 0 S e l m a Av e . w g e c h o . o r g

Webster celebrates Black History Pg. 8

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Staff EDITOR-IN-CHIEF: Jackson Parks PRINT EDITOR: Ava Musgraves JUNIOR EDITOR: Lydia Urice VIDEO EDITOR: Calum Shank SOCIAL MEDIA MANAGER/ GRAPHICS EDITOR: Zeke La Mantia NEWS/ OPINION EDITOR: Emily Goben PODCAST EDITOR: Maren DeMargel BUSINESS MANAGER: Izzy Poole PUBLIC RELATIONS: Calvin Lescher ADVISOR: Donald Johnson

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Schools should not ban books 3 Students, teachers plunge into cold lake 4 Women’s swim team prepares for state 5 Review: ‘Euphoria’ season 2 lacks eye glitter 6 Is ‘Scream’ favorite scary movie-worthy?

7 WGHS celebrates Black History Month 8 Black History leaves its mark in St. Louis 9 Candidates run for school board 10-11 St. Louis is home to a plethora of brunch restaurants 11 Columnist predicts trend forecast for spring 12 Women’s basketball aims to make history...again 13 What’s in and what’s out 14-15 Music makes for powerful outlet 16

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SOME MATERIAL FROM TRIBUNE NEWS SERVICE The Echo is a monthly publication of the newspaper staff of Webster Groves High School, 100 Selma Ave., Webster Groves, MO. To contact staff members, call 314-963-6400 ex. 11157 or write to wgecho@wgmail.org.

Unsigned editorials are the opinion of a majority of staff members; signed articles are the opinion of the writer.

Letters to the editor of 300 words or less are welcome; submit letters by the 10th of the month to wgecho@wgmail.org, or room 155.

All letters must be signed, although the name may be withheld from publication if requested.

The Echo has the right to edit letters for publication as long as intent remains unchanged.

The Echo is a member of SSP, Quill and Scroll, MJEA, JEA, MIPA, NSPA and CSPA.

4 Cover Cutline: Junior C. J. Lang prepares to throw the ball during the annual Douglass Night men’s basketball game on Feb. 11.

Photo by Maren DeMargel.

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Table of Contents | Early March 2022

Editorial: Written to be read

Schools should not ban books

Photo by Maren DeMargel

Angie Thomas’ “The Hate U Give,” one of the 10 most challenged books in 2020 according to The Washington Post, sits unrestricted on a shelf in the library. “I think as librarians, we believe in the intellectual freedom of students and that it’s their right to have access to all perspectives,” librarian Liz Forderhase said.

“Harry Potter,” “The Great Gatsby,” “Captain Underpants,” “The Perks of Being a Wallflower.” What do all of these books have in common? At some point, they have all been “banned.”

A banned book is a piece of literature that is not allowed to be read or distributed in libraries, schools or other specific places, often due to grievances made by concerned parents and community members.

While parents have the right to limit the media their children are exposed to, books are meant to be read.

By banning books, students are sheltered from the issues of the real world and limited in their freedom to learn and grow.

Studies show that reading and empathy are closely linked, revealing that people who read fiction often are more empathetic than those who don’t. How is empathy created? By studying and accepting the unfamiliarities and differences of other people’s perspectives. This cannot be done if all accounts of differing perspectives are banned from the hands of adolescents.

According to NPR, at least four school districts in the St. Louis

area have faced book banning in the past year. This list includes Rockwood, Frances Howell, Lindbergh, Wentzville, and more.

“A St. Louis Public Radio analysis of the books being challenged in the St. Louis area found two-thirds of them were written by authors of color or authors who identify as LGBTQ,” the NPR article reads.

“The increase in attempts to remove books compared to this time last year seems to represent an organized campaign targeting books that address both racism and LGBTQ themes, said Deborah Caldwell-Stone, the director of the American Library Association’s Office for Intellectual Freedom,” the article said.

It is evident that this recent movement to ban books is motivated by fear. Parents want to do all they can to protect their children, and that is understandable, but when that protection involves stifling the voices of minority communities, it has gone too far.

Books are written to be read. Let them be read.

Visit our website: wgecho.org Early March 2022 | Editorial

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Freezin’ for a reason

Students, teachers plunge into cold lake to raise money for 2022 Special Olympics

Photo by Lydia Urice

Students, teachers and community members plunge into Creve Coeur Lake on Feb. 19, to raise money for the Special Olympics. The Polar Plunge was organized by Special Olympics of Missouri and Best Buddies.

Junior Editor Lydia Urice Student council and Best Buddies helped the Missouri Special Olympics put on the Polar Plunge, which took place on Saturday, Feb. 19.

Registration opened at 11 a.m. and the event took place around 1 p.m. The plunge took place at Creve Coeur Lake.

Individuals plunged well. The cost to plunge was $75 per person, but anyone could attend as a spectator. Students registered through Student Council or at the lake.

Four teachers-- Dontrail Johnson, Lana Harter, Evyn Spencer and David Kraus-volunteered to participate in Jug Wars.

Jug Wars was a competition where students put money in jugs designated for each participating teacher.

Silver coins were negative, and pennies and cash were positive.

The winning teacher (the teacher with the highest amount of money after deduction of pennies and cash) was to plunge

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into the cold lake.

The last day to participate in jug wars was Feb. 11. Spencer won over Johnson over by $8.32, while Harter came in third place and Kraus in fourth.

“I’ve actually always wanted to do the Polar Plunge, but it’s never worked out with my schedule,” one of the four teachers participating in jug wars Spencer said, “It’s a great way to fundraise both for Special Olympics, and I’ll be able to do it depending on if I win or lose.”

Spencer said.

“If I end up being the teacher who doesn’t, I’m also willing to do

it with the teacher who ends up doing it,” Spencer said.

“It’s a great way to raise money. I’m not a huge fan of cold water, but I’m here for it if it raises money for the Special Olympics,” one of the four teachers participating in jug wars Johnson said.

Jug Wars wasn’t the final determining factor on which teachers plunge.

“If I end up being the teacher who doesn’t, I’m also willing to do it with the teacher who ends up doing it,” Spencer said.

“If someone peer pressures me into it [plunging no matter what], then I might do it,” Johnson said.

“I feel like that [all four teachers plunging] might be a thing that ends up happening, not that we’ve actually talked about it, but peer pressure,” Johnson said.

Both Spencer and Johnson plunged, along with six students.

Students included senior Ryan Austin, senior Ally Marshall, senior Scarlett Patton, senior Zoie Sellers, sophomore Rebecca Fairbanks and sophomore Brady Curtis.

Combined, the total amount raised between students and jug wars was $1,320.

News | Early March 2022

Women’s swim team prepares for state Video Editor Calum Shank Women’s swim and dive team recently placed second at the 2022 Suburban Red Swimming and Diving championship meet. It also placed fifth overall in the MSHSAA class one championship meet on Feb. 18 and 19.

“Since the Conference meet got moved almost an entire week, our State preparation was moved back as well, but we planned on having a strong practice the day after the Conference, followed by a good taper during the last five days of practice before State,” assistant coach Evyn Spencer said.

The women’s swim team had previously won three consecutive Conference championships.

The team led Clayton High School by 16 points going into the 400 freestyle relay (the final race). If the relay placed sixth or higher, Webster would have won the meet. The team was disqualified due to a false start that occurred during the relay.

“State’s going to go crazy. I’m really proud of Clayton because they killed that and they are a really nice team. It hurts a little bit, but it’s okay. We could’ve had it without the call,” senior Lili Gregov said.

Gregov placed third at this year’s State championship meet. In doing so, she broke her own school record in the 50 freestyle.

“Our leaders this season were our captains Ally Marshall and Libby Seitz, and they did a phenomenal job leading by example and providing a team environment that was positive and loving. Some other leaders that contributed to this are (junior) Katie Downey, (senior) Chloe Hagemann, (junior) Grace Allen, (senior) Ivy Clark,

Photo by Naia Kniker Senior Lili Gregov prepares to swim the 100-yard backstroke at Webster University versus Kirkwood on Nov. 30. and (junior) Audrey Guyot. These girls, and everyone on the team honestly, just make the pool such a positive place to be and the team a great group of people to be a part of,” Spencer added.

“While every girl hit a lifetime best at some point this season, which is so amazing, some breakout swims we saw were Lauren Knapp and Sydney Harden having incredible strides in the water and progressing and improving well beyond their own expectations. It was really great to see them do so well and get better each day, but truly, every single girl on the team had at least one swim in a meet that was a lifetime best, and that is so incredible and something they should be so proud of. It doesn’t happen too often,” Spencer said.

“Leading up to the State meet, we are going to have fun and brush off conference. Our goal as a team is to have fun

and swim well. Personally I would like to drop time in the 100 fly,” junior Katie Downey said.

Downey placed 11th overall in the State championship in the 100-yard butterfly.

She dropped a quarter of a second in the event.

“This year it took a little bit to fall into a good groove with the team, but after winter break we came back strong. I am looking forward to an amazing season next year. We have a lot of underclassmen and current juniors that are very good swimmers so we will have a good team next year,” Downey added.

The team began the season with a rough patch, starting the season with a dual meet record of 1-3. It then took a swing, winning the final five dual meets, ending the season with a record of 6-3.

Have an Opinion? Write the Echo!

Email us at wgecho@wgmail.org Early March 2022 | Sports

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Review

‘Euphoria’ season 2 lacks eye glitter Editor-in-Chief Jackson Parks

to most though. Cassie’s character sort of does a complete 360 and just Every teen’s favorite show and about every choice she new Sunday night ritual “Euphomakes sends her deeper ria” returned for its highly-anticiinto the spiral that she’s pated second season on Jan. 9. fallen into: a secret affair After a two-year, COVIDwith Nate, the ex-boyprompted hiatus after its first friend of her best friend season and two special episodes Maddy. Her storyline is a which fill in the gaps left after the highlight because it’s just season one finale, the HBO series so real -- someone com“Euphoria’s” second season takes pletely losing and changquite the shift in theme, storylines ing one’s self over an awand the overall atmosphere for the ful guy. show.

A character who does Photo courtesy of Eddy Chen/HBO/TNS “Euphoria” follows Rue Benhave a surprising turnZendaya performs in a scene from Season 2 of “Euphoria.” nett (Zendaya) through her strugaround this season is one. There’s a lack of color and vibrancy gles of addiction and substance Cal Jacobs (Eric Dane), abuse and the melodramatic lives of her that season one almost specialized in, with the father and the seeming first coming high school classmates -- including her this season featuring a lot of yellows and of Nate. Cal, who did some pretty awful on-off again girlfriend Jules Vaughn more muted colors on screen. things in season one, redeemed himself As pretty as the show may be though, for many in the opening of the third epi(Hunter Schafer), a troubled, violent jock Nate Jacobs (Jacob Elordi) or a contrast- the storylines and treatment or sometimes sode of season two, which centers around ing sister dynamic between Cassie (Syd- absence of characters falls flat this season. Cal’s high school years. Cal’s backstory is The same relationships still fail. Rue such a clear standout of this season, in its ney Sweeney) and Lexi Howard (Maude still has not made a major change; this “Call Me By Your Name”-esque approach Apatow).

The show might center around the time around her addiction and struggles to a forbidden romance. It’s sensational. larger scale trials and tribulations of high are just intensified.

The soundtrack and score of “EuphoCharacters and storylines are sidelined ria” is something that makes the show so school students, but “Euphoria” is defior feel unfinished or unused -- like Kat itself. Scored by Labrinth, it contributes to nitely not the typical teen drama.

A change in atmosphere and tone is Hernandez’s (Barbie Ferreira) noticeable the atmosphere perfectly. Whether it be an very noticeable in going from season one lack of screen time and just lackluster, un- 80s hit or a hyper-pop anthem for Lexi to to two. Sam Levinson, the show’s creator, interesting storyline this season. ride her bike to Fezco to, it’s just so fitting.

Jules, who had a prevalent part in seadescribes season two as the “afterparty” to The performances this season are amazseason one, explaining the latest season’s son one, really has nothing going on -- ingly intense. Of course, Zendaya delivspiraling and frantic nature for all of the other than sharing scenes with Rue and ers. Her performance in episode 5 is probnewcomer Elliot (Dominic Fike). Both ably her best. She better get that Emmy. characters.

Levinson is very specific about his cre- Jules and Elliot’s “storylines” seem to Sweeney’s performance of a spiraling, ative direction for the series, allowing for revolve around the downfall of Rue and lost Cassie is electric, even in the cringiest Maddy Perez (Alexa Demie) to be the their part in it. of moments.

However, while some characters and only character wearing foundation, which Even though season two might feel unis just so fitting for Maddy’s diva charac- storylines fail, others prevail. finished or splotchy in terms of storyline The actual main character treatment and pacing, it does the job. It’s definitely ter who always has a full face of makeup on. The lack of over-the-top and colorful of Lexi this season is such a highlight. not as good or developed as its first seamakeup adds to the intentional shift in Whether it be her step into individuality son, but it’s still fun, enticing and quite and independence, the dramatic school the trip. It’s an all-around decent sequel to tone.

There is also a shift in cinematography play she puts on, or any of her interactions the rightfully acclaimed series and leaves as well -- something that the A24-backed with Fezco (Angus Cloud), her scenes al- fans in anticipation again waiting for its series has always done justice. The second ways seem to steal the episode. already confirmed third season.

Lexi’s sister, Cassie, is also a standout season is shot entirely on 35mm film, as “Euphoria’s” second season is available opposed to being shot digitally like season character this season -- an unlikeable one to stream on HBO Max.

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Entertainment| Early March 2022

Parks’ Perspective

Is ‘

’ favorite scary movie-worthy?

Editor-in-Chief Jackson Parks The latest and fifth installment of the iconic, comedic and meta slasher franchise “Scream” hit theaters on Jan. 14, and I’m definitely answering the phone for this movie.

“Scream (2022),” or more commonly known as “Scream 5,” which I’ll be referring to it as, is the first of the franchise without creator and director Wes Craven since his passing.

The new film features not just a new ensemble of characters which are just begging to be killed off, but also a new creative team -- writers, directors and production company.

The “Scream” franchise was purchased

by Spyglass Media Group from the Weinstein Company in November 2019, after the controversy and closure of the company. Spyglass then confirmed a new film would be coming, and fans like me have been waiting in anticipation ever since.

The “Scream” movies have been some of my favorites for as long as I can remember.

There’s just so much to love in these movies -- whether it be the developing iconicness of Gale Weathers (Courtney Cox) throughout the decades, the spinetingling ring of a phone, Sarah Michelle Gellar’s very brief and over-marketed role in the sequel, or Emma Roberts absolutely bodying the final girl gone wrong in her role as Jill Roberts, the unlikely killer in the fourth (and insanely overhated) film. I just can’t get enough of these movies.

Naturally, I had to go see the latest flick -- but with some hesitation, of course.

“Scream 5” serves as an almost reboot for the franchise, or a “requel,” which it’s referred to as in the film since it brings back our favorite legacy characters: decadespanning final girl, Sidney Prescott (Neve Campbell), a now retired sheriff (and single bum) Dewey Riley (David Arquette) and investigative diva-journalist Gale Weathers, who’s now split from Riley.

The film picks up 25 years after the original Woodsboro killings with a new ensemble of characters, mostly high-

Early March 2022 | Entertainment

Photo courtesy of Paramount Pictures and Spyglass Media Group/TNS

Ghostface returns in Paramount Pictures’ and Spyglass Media Group’s “Scream.”

schoolers, who seem like tired attempts of redefining the horror tropes that “Scream” made so popular.

Some characters, like sisters Sam (Melissa Barrera) and Tara Carpenter (Jenna Ortega) give refreshing performances and offer an entertaining dynamic as the film’s attempt at new leading roles. The film also spares no homages -- with Dylan Minette’s character Wes Hicks (a tribute to the late and original director Craven).

Naturally, with a new Ghostface on the hunt, Sidney must return to Woodsboro (presumedly for the first time since 2011’s “Scream 4”) to be reunited with Dewey and Gale, who also returns to town from a big career in New York.

Their dynamic hasn’t changed much -with each film the characters seem a little more grateful to see each other at the beginning of a new killing spree. However, with Dewey and Gale now broken up, there’s some much-needed tension in the character’s dynamic, and it really pays off in the end.

“Scream’s” commentary on pop culture and horror has been a staple of the franchise, and the latest installment does this tradition justice. Whether it be its jabs at “elevated horror,” overdone reboots of famous horror movies or the tendency to not kill off legacy characters, the film is ultrameta, per usual.

“Scream 5” is also somewhat fresh too. Some of the new characters might

not be anything special; you have your basic jock Chad Meeks-Martin (Mason Gooding) and overly self-aware film buff Mindy Meeks-Martin (Jasmin Savoy Brown), who are actually relatives of the famous Randy Meeks from the first two films. The sidekicks and supporting cast are somewhat lackluster, but their kills are not.

This film’s Ghostface is deadly, and the kills are brutal. There are suspenseful and surprising sequences (a standout for me stars Marley Shelton as returning character Sheriff Judy Hicks). However, the film does lack its famous chase scenes -- something that the franchise has always done justice.

The killer’(s) reveal in the infamous third act is nothing surprising or shocking, but it’s exciting and such a trip.

The final act is the best part of the film, and the suspense factor is extreme. The motive feels familiar but is fresh and revamped in a 21st century fashion. The commentary on toxicity in fandoms, Reddit, legacy characters and “passing the torch” are some of the best parts of this film and really seem to give Ghostface’s motive meaning.

The only thing I was hoping for but didn’t get this film but didn’t get (besides Emma Roberts and Hayden Pannettiere from “Scream 4” being back for this film) was more of the “legacy characters,” also known as Sidney, Gale and Dewey.

This film might be a backdoor reboot, setting up for stories with new characters, but the original characters didn’t have much screen time for how much they were marketed -- in typical “Scream” fashion (similar to Drew Barrymore’s famous first kill).

With the end credits rolling, “Scream 5” is a decent addition and re-introduction to the long-running horror franchise. With its social commentary, fan-favorite characters and constant metaness, this film does its job pretty well. It’s definitely not my favorite or anywhere near the top of my list of my favorite “Scream” movies; but considering it’s backed by a whole new creative team, that’s expected.

2022’s stab at a “Scream” movie delivers.

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WGHS celebrates Black History Month

Photo by Emily Goben

Teachers and students were encouraged to decorate doors in celebration of Black History Month. A door to the library is decorated in honor of late actor Chadwick Boseman.

News/Opinion Editor Emily Goben February was officially declared Black History Month in the United States in 1976 under President Gerald Ford. It is intended to honor and raise awareness about black history, according to historian Carter G. Woodson.

Webster Groves High School celebrates Black History Month in various ways. The announcements feature a different piece of black history every day.

Teachers and students have decorated doors to their classrooms in honor of Black History Month.

Students in drama teacher Alexandra Pettey’s advisory class chose to decorate her door in honor of Jackie Robinson.

Students in instructional tutor Connor White’s advisory class decorate their door as a timeline of black history in America scaled down to the context of one hour.

White explained that some major events in black history only occurred 14 minutes ago in the context of America’s history being only one hour. If America’s history was scaled back to only last an hour, some major events in black history only

occurred 14 minutes ago.

Physical education teacher Joshua Spuhl’s advisory class painted “Happy Black History Month” along with a heart and pictures of black icons like Tyler the

been “highlighting some of the people and events as it relates to French culture and language.”

Stein recently taught his classes about Josephine Baker, a black American who moved to France to pursue a career in entertainment and became a key asset to the French Resistance and an avid civil rights activist.

English teacher Chloe Telle encourages her students to challenge white washed history. Her students were assigned a project in which they are asked to distinguish between the myth and the reality of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Telle said this assignment is designed to take a push back at how being black is defined in this country.

Telle said she wants her students to understand they are a “person who is planted in history right now,” so she studies current events with her classes.

Telle said she wants her students to realize that someday people will be learning about events going on in Missouri right now that her students are living through, and she wants her students to understand the connection between modern-day events and the way that people of color are viewed in America.

“I want you all thinking of yourselves as a person planted in history right now,” - English teacher Chloe Telle

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Creator, Cardi B and Harriet Tubman.

“We have a heart to show love because we love all as they come,” senior Roy Smith said.

WGHS Parents for Racial Equity met on Feb. 16.

Varsity men’s basketball played in honor of Douglass High School on Friday, Feb. 11. The team wore purple and gold uniforms with the names of Douglass High School students, and any Douglass alumni were asked to stand and be honored at the beginning of the game. Douglass High School was a segregated high school in North Webster.

Teachers make an effort to honor black history in their classrooms, as well.

French teacher Jeff Stein said he has

Feature | Early March 2022

Black History leaves its mark in St. Louis Sports Editor Owen Crews Black History Month is a time for celebrating culture and the past of African American culture and is rooted in all over the world including Saint Louis.

Dan Fuller, event and volunteer coordinator, of Bellefontaine Cemetery gives out tours specific to the African American experience.

Fuller said via email, “Our cemetery is rich with history, and it becomes a focus of what you are looking.”

Fuller also mentioned the 87,000 burials at the place and the two most famous people are John Berry Meachum and Priscilla Baltimore. Fuller added via email, “ We are 87,000 burials, and each one has a rich story.”

The Griot Museum of Black History in North Saint Louis is also a place for learning about historical people all over history from obscure people to people everybody knows of. It is a wax and historical museum. It is a smallish museum only having one floor and was mostly a self paced activity with tons of information about black history.

Dana Roberts, special projects assistant, of the Griot Museum of Black History, was very interested in this place and its values. She mentioned her director inspired her to try and do her internship here.

Roberts said, “African Americans don’t get the credit they deserve, for some of the inventions. While there are a lot of stories of despair there are stories of resilience, and how humankind adapt to their situations and rise above it.”

Roberts added, “We are open Wednesday through Saturday 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and everybody should come to learn about the black experience,” when talking about the Griot museum and what she wanted the public to know.

Lastly, the Scott Joplin house, was the place he lived during his stint living in North St. Louis and historians speculate what it looked like today. Since it was forgotten until the 1970s revival of jazz and ragtime, it was actually discovered to

Early March 2022 | Feature

Photo by Owen Crews

Tour guide Heather Moll plays some ragtime music at the Scott Joplin House.

Scott Joplin was a famous composer known for playing and popularizing ragtime music. be where he lived. It was then turned into a museum and has a 45ish minute story talking about his time here and has now secured its place as a national state park.

Heather Moll, the tour guide at the Scott Joplin House, had some thoughts on why people should learn about black history, “Black history is everybody’s history, and we will talk about that more on the tour, but so much of our culture, especially from popular culture comes from the black experience and the black community, musically from ragtime, to blues to jazz, rock and roll, and hip hop. We have

appropriated this culture without respecting where it comes from.”

Moll also mentioned about the history being erased. Moll studied and found that there were absolutely no archives of primary sources of African American experience during the World’s Fair.

Moll also pointed out that there was no thought to keep these recollections.

Moll added, “That is a huge chunk of the historical record that is just gone” about the lack of primary sources and what can happen if historical records are not kept.

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Candidates run f Business Manager Izzy Poole

Sports Editor Owen Crews

Eight candidates are running in the April 5, school board election.

Two positions are available for the three-year term (April 2022-2025), and one position is available for the one-year term (April 2022-2023).

To run for school board, a member must be a U.S. citizen, a resident taxpayer of a district or voters of the district in urban districts, a resident of Missouri for at least one year and at least 24 years old.

“The Board of Education is elected to represent the Webster Groves School District community in the governance of its public schools. The board’s chief responsibility is to evaluate and hire the superintendent of schools. Additionally, the board adopts policies and direct procedures for the governance of the District, with responsibility for implementing board policy and day-today operations of the district delegated to the superintendent. The board is also responsible for adopting an annual budget to enable the district to carry out its educational programs. All board actions are governed by state and federal laws and Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) guidelines,” according to the Webster Board of Education page.

Every candidate was reached out to over email and asked “Why are you running?” Five responded.

One candidate has already left the race, “Actually, I’ve decided to withdraw from the election. I’ve met with a lot of the other candidates, and they’re equally passionate about change. I came to the conclusion that too many new candidates running would cost each other votes and increase the chances of incumbents getting re-elected. The district needs change, and I don’t want to prevent the change,” Josh Rainey said via email.

Candidate Allen Todd said via email, “I am running for reelection to our school board to ensure we continue to have calm, steady, experienced leadership in the turbulent times we find ourselves in.

“I believe that a school district’s role is to prepare our students for their future as a citizen of the world. Our role is to ensure the academics and culture of our schools prepare them for what’s next, whether that be college, technical school or the workforce.

“Every decision we make as a district is centered around that premise for me, and I will continue to fight every day for the best interests of all our students to ensure they are all prepared for what’s next.”

Candidate Tara Scheer said via email, “I am passionate about serving our school district, which has been a part of my life for as long as I can remember. I went to school here, and now my own kids go to those same schools - my daughter is in sixth grade at Hixson, and my son is in second grade at Bristol.

“At the start of the 20/21 school year, I left my corporate career in strategy development to support my kids’ education through a year of virtual learning. My daily life changed from working with executives to sitting on my kids’ bedroom floors and helping them with school lessons.

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Photo by Izzy Poole

Webster Groves residents show support to candidates by placing signs in their front yard.

“It was a powerful experience that inspired me to want to give back to our school district in a more impactful way.

“Today, Webster Groves School District is facing a myriad of issues and also beginning a strategic planning process to determine its direction for the next three-five years. I believe my professional background in strategy along with my daily connection to our schools as a parent will bring a valuable and unique perspective to that process.

“I am committed to finding positive, community-oriented solutions that proactively prepare our district for everything it is facing now and in the years to come, while ensuring everyone within our schools feels happy, healthy, valued, safe and connected to our community.”

Candidate Alex Khan said via email, “As an involved parent of a second grader in our district, the school board decisions that I’ve participated in making over the past three years directly impact me and my family. The experience that I’ve gained as a first-term board member over the past three years will be invaluable if I am elected to another term because it takes time to fully understand and gain perspective in your role as a school board member. This is not to suggest you can’t immediately add value, but most board members aren’t in the educational field, so it takes time to learn the inner workings.

“Having myself benefitted from a public-school education; I believe it’s one of our greatest strengths. Public education has provided the path to the ‘American Dream’ for so many. I will work to ensure our school district continues to blaze this path and remains one of the premier districts in the State while continuing to bring our community together.

“Unlike some of my opponents, I’m not running to advance a partisan political agenda or because I have personal issues with our school district, and I’m certainly not looking to run for higher office. I’m seeking a seat on the school board because I believe I can help maintain and improve our schools, with our school district’s fiscal health and overall success as my sole motivation. I put our students, their families, and our staff at the heart of every decision I make. I have been and will continue to be transparent about my viewpoints, as well.

“I hold every decision that I make, whether it’s a fiscal decision or a curriculum decision, accountable to our primary objective. That objective is ensuring both the fiscal health of the district and the personal and academic success of every student.”

Feature | Early March 2022

for school board Candidate Courtney Schaefer said via email, “I have always cared about young people and their future. For most of my life, I have advocated for children and youth, their families, and the people that support them, including teachers. As a mom, community member, and school social worker, I have noticed an increasing disconnect with public schools. As Webster Groves School Board Member, I plan to connect the Webster Groves community to our schools by listening to all stakeholders, focusing on the teacher crisis and supporting the student voice.

“My first priority is to focus on the needs of the students. We know that there are many students who are struggling through the effects of the pandemic. For those students it is important to support the school district effort to meet the increased needs for mental health supports. Part of those supports focus on teachers, to ensure that there they are able and available to connect and form relationships with their students. With the increasing teacher crisis, supporting, recruiting and retaining teachers is especially important.

“The most important education activities and relationships occur in a classroom between teachers and students. Learning requires a safe environment, where all students are seen and heard and where teachers are supported and encouraged. The classroom must be welcoming and inclusive, honoring the diversity that replicates all community members, as well as evolving to understand that diversity changes. In these safe classrooms, teachers can teach and students can learn, developing the skills and knowledge they need in their future.

“Increasing support for students to acquire and enhance critical thinking skills is increasingly important. It prepares them for the changing world and workplaces we now have. Those changes include social justice issues, environmental issues, technology advances and more.

“I entered this campaign fully aware that there is hard work to be done, and I am ready for that challenge.”

Other candidates include Barbara Strang, Rebecca Riley, Justin Hauke, Brian Middendorf and Robert Dorries Jr.

Best Brunch

St. Louis is home to plethora of brunch restaurants News/Opinion Editor Emily Goben St. Louis is home to numerous amazing brunch restaurants.

In this review, each restaurant will be ranked on a simplistic scale of one to five stars. Stars are direct and easy to understand.

Stars will be assigned based on the taste and presentation of the food, the service, the atmosphere of the restaurant and the pricing.

Boardwalk Cafe in Webster Groves is known for good food at great prices. Its sizable menu offers a variety of options, it all seems to be delicious. Any of its omelets can be ordered as a breakfast burrito and served with hashbrowns. The portion sizes were very large, and most of the dishes could probably be shared or leftovers could be taken home.

Boardwalk’s pancakes have received raving reviews and they deserve all the compliments they have received.

Boardwalk has a diner-like atmosphere and feels very comfortable and casual. The servers were very friendly and the service was quick. While the food may not be the prettiest, what it lacks in presentation, it makes up for in taste. Overall, Boardwalk Cafe deserves four stars.

The Bellwether, a contemporary restaurant near Lafayette Square Park, was also highly recommended. Just the building itself encapsulates the cool energy of The Bellwether. The restaurant is located on the third floor of a building that also houses a rock climbing gym on the first floor, and from the windows near the bar, there is a clear view of the Arch. The Bellwether has a bright, cute atmosphere that is perfect for brunch.

The Bellwether has a variety of brunch options for fans of both sweet and savory, and its specialties are where they really stand out. The bacon fried rice and blueberry waffle surpassed all of my expectations. The blueberry waffle is served with a lemon

Early March 2022 | Feature

Photo by Emily Goben Rooster South Grand offers many modifications for its pancakes and french toast, like Nutella.

curd that perfectly complements the sweetness of the waffle and the bacon fried rice is one of the most creative breakfast dishes in St. Louis.

While The Bellwether is pricier than alternatives like Boardwalk, it is definitely worth every penny. The employees were friendly, accommodating, and attentive.

The Bellwether gets a four and a half star rating.

And now, for the only restaurant that has truly earned a five star rating.

Rooster South Grand is a trendy restaurant with wonderful food and even better service. Every employee was friendly, helpful, and seemed happy to be working there. The wait time was perfectly estimated, and the heated patio that patrons were able to wait in was a nice accommodation.

The cinnamon pull was amazing and was ready very quickly.

It was the perfect balance of cinnamon, dough, and icing. The pancakes and french toast are offered with a variety of modifications like Nutella, strawberries, or apple pie.

wgecho.org

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Ava’s Anecdotes

Columnist predicts trend forecast for spring Print Editor Ava Musgraves At a certain point it’s going to get too warm for that Acne studio scarf, mini Uggs and Zara jeans, so what are we wearing once the sun comes out of hibernation?

Before I get into what fashion trends you’ll be tired of seeing on Tik Tok by May, I want to preface that fashion is open to interpretation.

Trend cycles promote fast fashion, so if you want to partake in the newest styles your favorite influencers are all promoting, I recommend trying to purchase from sustainable brands and hitting local thrift stores to keep your carbon footprint to a minimum while still looking fabulous, or don’t partake in trends at all. Wear what expresses you.

Last year, we saw the uprise of loud, chunky jewelry and a more maximalist approach to accessories.

This spring, we have already seen an increase of more heavy metals on the runway in contrast to the bold colors we saw last year. The choices are still not

completely minimalist but definitely more toned down and “timeless” looking. Don’t get me wrong. I don’t think colorful accessories are completely out, so don’t send it to Goodwill just yet.

As far as footwear, clogs have already made a resurgence this year with the Boston clog by Birkenstock becoming a shoe on everyone’s list.

I think this spring we will see more of a statement clog look, a nod to the 90s. This trend is something I can totally see popping up at a vintage or thrift store so keep your eyes peeled for platform, patterned and colorful clogs to upgrade your shoe game this spring.

Crochet has made a huge comeback on the runway everywhere from cardigans to matching sets. Maybe this is a sign to pick up a new hobby and crochet your own corset top or check out Etsy to buy from a small business. Expect to see more baby tees and tiny cardigans as we predict to see less of the oversized look as we move into the spring months.

This year super mini skirts are making a comeback over the long maxi skirts that were more on trend last year. Again,

Photo by Ava Musgraves

Screenshot of Ava’s Pinterest board where she got inspiration for this column.

the 90s are a huge inspiration for this upcoming season, so go watch an episode of ``Friends” and then make a Pinterest board inspired by every single outfit Rachel and Monica wear.

Join us in Celebration of the Lord!

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Feature | Early March 2022

Women’s basketball aims to make history…again Podcast Editor Maren DeMargel “The goal is to win State,” senior Jenna Clark said. Clark is one of five seniors on the women’s basketball team this year, and she has ambitions for another recordshattering season.

Along with then-juniors Eliza Maupin, Sophia Nittinger, Ellie Paloucek and Adele Maupin, Clark helped lead the team to a second place finish at the 2020-2021 State finals, the highest finish in the program’s history.

“Last year we got second, and we want to go back and win this time. Returning players know how hard it is to get to that point and the pain of losing. We know that if we keep working hard and play to the best of our abilities not many teams are going to beat us,” Clark said.

The team’s winning record backs up Clark’s confidence. Thanks to their leading point-scorers, Maupin and Paloucek (who each recently celebrated scoring the 1,000th point of their high school careers), the Statesmen have had a dominant year.

In fact, in the Annual Webster Winter Classic Challenge, the Statesmen beat undefeated Rock Bridge in an exhilaratingly close game, ending in a score of 49-45.

“Beating Rock Bridge was one of my favorite high school games,” Clark said.

“We knew that if we played well that we could beat them. The coaches worked hard to set a game plan, and as players, we did a nice job of executing. We got off to a good start and that momentum carried through the whole game. That game showed a lot about our team and how we

Photo by Maren DeMargel

Senior Ellie Paloucek celebrates the 1,000th point of her high school career.

Women’s basketball defeated the Marquette Mustangs 62-45 on Feb. 11, in Roberts Gym.

are capable of playing,” Clark said.

After their Rock Bridge win, the Statesmen faced Incarnate Word Academy in the final match of the Winter Classic, ending in a loss for the Statesmen. According to Nittinger, the Red Knights are no longer in Webster’s class, so they should not be an obstacle in Webster’s journey to a State championship.

Instead, the Statesmen will face the Whitfield Warriors in the first round of Districts, a team they lost to in the beginning of their season.

“We think that we can win now, deeper in the season. We don’t see them as a too difficult task,” Nittinger said.

Nittinger is one of two seniors committed to play Division 1 basketball next year.

Nittinger, an Eastern Michigan University commit, attributes this accomplishment to her support system.

“My parents put me in basketball when I was really little and helped me get where I needed to be. My high school coaches, Coach (Joshua) Spuhl especially, has just

been kind of a rock from freshman year for me, and [he’s] always helping me and giving me advice and expecting a lot from me,” Nittinger said.

Maupin is also committed to play Division 1 basketball next year. She will continue her basketball career at Kansas State University.

Clark and Paloucek are also committed to continue athletics in college, but for different sports. Clark will play golf at Maryville University, and Paloucek will play soccer at Saint Louis University.

“I have played basketball since I can remember. It is a huge part of my family and something that I love doing. I think that playing multiple sports is good because it also makes you appreciate the sport you are playing at that time. I also know that I only have a few months left of playing a game that I have done for so long and I need to give everything I have before it is over,” Clark said.

With the majority of the starting five graduating and no incoming seniors in the program, the current seniors have high expectations for the underclassmen.

“I hope that they continue to play and be strong on the court, and I hope they continue what we’ve done because they’re all capable of it,” Nittinger said.

Regarding the impact she hopes her class will leave on the program, Clark said, “This year we want to help lead the underclassmen and improve the program like those before us. We had a historic season last year, and we hope that our lasting mark on this program is winning State for the first time for Webster girls basketball this year.”

Students show interest in possible water polo team Video Editor Calum Shank The possibility of a water polo team has struck interest among students.

Multiple students share their thoughts on the rising interest of developing a team.

“It’s understandable that a team hasn’t been made yet considering that water polo is still a developing sport; however, it seems like a missed opportunity for stu-

Early March 2022 | Sports

dents to participate in school sponsored athletics,” junior Dominic Lee said.

“I think that water polo, just like all high school sports, is a great way to allow students to do what they enjoy or try out new activities while still in the Webster Groves High School community,” Lee added.

Lee participates in the swim and dive team in the fall. Just like Lee, other swim teammates believe the addition of a water polo team would benefit the school.

“Personally, like Domnic, I believe that a water polo team would be great for the

school. It could bring people together. It gives a lot of people with no prior experience to the sport, a chance to learn and participate in a new one,” sophomore Barrett Rohlfing said.”

Water Polo has been a sport in Missouri since 1959 and has experienced growth since its founding.

Currently 21 Saint Louis area high schools offer water polo as a schoolsanctioned sport each spring, according to www.mowaterpolo.com/high-school.

wgecho.org

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The collab that’s so in...

Senior Editors of the Echo

determine what’s

“IN” “OUT” and what’s

Editor-in-Chief Jackson Parks

Print Editor Ava Musgraves

If you all are familiar with the concept of a collab, that’s what this is. The senior editors of the Echo are back this time with the “In’s and Out’s of 2022.”

The last time we did this we talked about CreepyWorld and Jackson throwing up in a QT bathroom, so this will be a very different story. You could almost call this a sister story to Ava’s or Jackson’s column this month, except this isn’t just predicting what clothes will be “in” this year or what new movie to watch; this will be reviewing everything and anything.

First to describe our process of deciding how something can be “In” or “Out.” As Ava explained in her column this month, fashion trends are constantly circulating and on a broader scale certain aesthetics. For example, Uggs and lounge wear have become very on trend in the past years due to the pandemic and more time being spent at home, but a couple years ago Uggs and lounge wear were not on trend.

Anything can be “in,” and anything can be “out.”

It’s a constantly changing and evolving cycle that we, of course, get to dictate, and yes, we know we come off as complete narcissists in this, but who says narcissism isn’t in?

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*Queue the eyerolls* In: Lululemon Belt Bags

For starters, Lululemon “belt bags” and fanny packs are in, specifically the “Everywhere Belt Bag.” They’re so in. They have honestly probably always been in, but 2022 is their year. They’re cute, they’re compact, they’re fashionable (but not too much of a statement). Adding to their in-factor is their convenience. They can be used as wallets, purses, clutches, fanny packs, crossbody bags and more.

They’re $38, which by Lululemon standards is a steal. For something to be in, it does come at a cost. Jackson has a light gray bag, and Ava has a blush pink one. Twinning your Lululemon belt bag with your friend is the most in.

Out: (Most) High School Relationships We have all seen that couple in the hallway. Holding hands, carrying each other’s books, longing looks across the room. I know, gag me with a spoon. Most of the time, these “high school sweethearts” end up sending a break up text one month into college, so stressing over immature high school boys and relationships is SO out. Waiting for a text back, sitting home on a Friday night while he is “out with the boys” and canceling on you at the last minute is totally not something we are wasting our time on this year.

Obviously, we are being a little cynical because not every teenage relationship is toxic, but the toxic ones are out. You don’t want to look back on all your pictures from high school and have to cut a boy out of your prom pictures because the relationship ended badly. Taking your best friend to prom is so in! By the way, what color should Jackson and Ava wear to prom together?

They need suggestions.

In: Acting like you’re in a TV Show

Acting like you’re in a TV show--specifically a teen drama set in a small town--is very in this school year. Rationalize poor choices, inconveniences or drama as “storylines’’ in your life or your show’s current season. What’s a show about high school without a little fun drama?

Having really deep conversations in the halls with your friend during passing periods, having impromptu musical numbers (or even themed episodes), having drama or events become “cliffhangers” for your episodes: it’s just all so in. In all honesty, it really adds some much-needed fun to life that only a soapy CW drama can provide. As cringeworthy as it sounds, you are the main character of your life, so be it!

In: Brandy Melville

On theme with Ava’s fashion trend-centered column this month (See page 12), a certain brand is in this year: Brandy Melville. If you’re aware of “Brandy” and its clothes, you probably know how basic they are; that’s exactly why it’s in. Their clothes are so comfortable, not too expensive and the sizing is marketed to all (that’s a whole other topic).

The sweaters and sweatshirts are some of the most in items Brandy carries. You might just catch Jackson in one of his “Bri-

Column | Early March 2022

anna Cotton Thick Stripe Sweaters” -- one of which he often twins with Ava. The comfort, muted colors and seasonal looks really give Brandy that in-factor for 2022.

In: Leaving your small town behind for the big city

Webster Groves at its core is a perfect representation of what a small town looks like. A bubble from the outside world, pretty houses with manicured lawns, and a facebook page for all the moms to complain about the “hooligan” teenagers on.

As seniors, Jackson and Ava are so ready to step out of the suffocating rains a high school in a small town provides and into a new stage -- college in a big city. Dropping everything and running away to Chicago and New York is SO in. Your favorite sassy duo Rachel and Kurt did it (from Fox hit TV show “Glee’’), so shouldn’t you expect the same from your favorite WGHS duo?

Out: WGHS Lunch and Schedule

Something that’s always been out and is in desperate need of an overdue revamping: lunch at WGHS. Simply put, lunch is too short. Especially for juniors and seniors who are encouraged to leave campus for lunch, the twenty seven minutes we’re given has never sufficed. Being late to your fifth hour after lunch is such a norm for us at this point -- maybe it’s in? Still, lunch is not long enough.

Students really need time to just breathe and be away from a classroom environment. The stress that comes with the average school day and the hectic, notoriously always-changing schedule (that’s not in at all) should at least allow for students to have more time to themselves and to just eat and socialize.

Our thoughts and prayers go out to the underclassmen who have to bear this next school year. Hopefully, the administration will take note of how out their schedule and lunch is.

In: “Reputation Eras”

If you have ever heard of a “Reputation Era,” our queen Taylor Swift herself coined the term.

When Swift dropped her album “Reputation,” she became silent on social media and completely revamped her look from just an innocent pop country star to a total girlboss, so this total revamp is totally in.

Deleting your social media accounts, and spending more time completely on self care are just a few examples of how to enter your own “Reputation Era.” Ava encapsulates her “Reputation Era” by journaling every day, deleting snapchat and going on runs. Jackson just ghosts people without explanation and says he’s enterning his “villain arc” after any minor inconvenience.

Most importantly,

the WG Echo is

in.

From WG Statesman...

Out: Malls

As surprising as it may sound, malls are out. They’re dying for a reason. Malls were sort of in during middle school, when you would ask your parents for money and the mall was somewhat of a social haven for pre-teens. Now, in high school and with a full shopping cart in our phones, it’s safe to say malls are out.

They’re also out of everything, including good stores and restaurants in the food court now. Online shopping from the comfort of your home or thrifting are in. Get with the new wave of shopping and ignorantly supporting capitalism!

Out: Dunkin

Dunkin is so out. Jackson worked there and basically managed the Rock Hill location from the start of quarantine until the beginning of his junior year and has plenty of crazy stories from his time there, but pretty much anyone with taste buds can determine that Dunkin is out.

Whether it be the looming shadow of Starbucks and pretty much any other breakfast-coffee place, Dunkin will never live up to the hype that TikTok star Charli Damelio gave it for some reason.

Early March 2022 | Column

Tara in 4th grade at Bristol

to WG School Board

As a former student and current parent, Tara is committed to our school district’s success.

Tara today

Vote for TARA SCHEER for the 1-year school board term on April 5th.

TaraScheer.com Paid for by Vote Tara Scheer, Stacey Beatty, Treasurer

wgecho.org

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More than just noise

Music makes for powerful outlet

Photo by Matthew Grace

Senior Chloe Halls performs with her band, Chainsaw Boyz, during The Night in the Courtyard, a DECA sponsored event, in the courtyard outside the PV Commons, Friday, Nov. 5.

Social Media Manager/Graphics Editor Ezekiel La Mantia With the image of teenage musicians being loud and uncaring, Webster student musicians are here to change the narrative.

Taking the time to coordinate with other band members, venues and crowds, teenage musicians are showing to be more professional than most media showcases.

Senior Chloe Halls, a member of the band Chainsaw Boyz since February 2021, not only plays lead guitar and does backup vocals for the group but has a desire to turn what was once only a fun extracurricular into a career.

“I plan to do something with music in my future. I am currently looking at the music industry programs for a couple schools. I would love to learn how to market, manage and produce for my own music career,” Halls said.

“I feel like in high school there’s more freedom, depending on your schedule, and more resources, like a basement to practice in. I also think that it’s (being in a band) great practice for the future and teaches you how to work as a team, being creative, be expressive, and if you’re the manager, like me most of the time, great experience sending professional emails

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and such,” Halls added.

As joyous as being a part of a music group sounds, some hardships come with the work.

“The hardest part is probably just working with other people. It is incredibly hard to coordinate practices, gigs, etc with so many people’s schedules and sometimes communication can be hard because we are different ages and go to different schools,” Halls said.

“The other hard part is having to sound professional when contacting a venue. It’s a little nerve wracking because these are professional people who run real venues and you want to make sure you sound like someone they would book,” Halls added.

Senior Nina Spence is a member of the band “Fatima and the feather boas” named so because of shared interest in middle eastern ancestry among the group members. Spence agrees that there are hardships even amidst this creative outlet.

“The hardest part is that you’re not always gonna be in the greatest of moods.

Same goes for the other people in the band,” Spence said.

“Some people won’t always click right away and some people won’t always agree with you and your ideas,” Spence added.

However, Spence doesn’t let the hard times get her down.

“When it comes down to it, the great-

est part of having these people is what all these emotions in a room can produce, and no matter what happens or where you come from, the good outweighs the bad.

We do it for music,” Spence said.

Being realistic about the experiences of working as a team opens the group up to new opportunities as well as offers a stage for self expression.

“It just felt right and something I could do easily no matter what. I plan to always do music, it’s an adventure and I’m always excited to see where it goes, where it’ll take me, and who it makes me meet,” Spence said.

Musicians have different reasons for wanting to perform.

“To me music honestly means everything. Playing, creating, and performing music take up most of my extra curricular time and it has for the past couples years.

I cannot think of another thing I’d like to pursue besides music and I hope that turns out well for me,” Halls said.

About what music meant for her, Spence said, “Music means safety, understanding and really it’s just an outlet.”

“It’s something to focus my ADHD and to make me feel normal. It’s just that music was always the one thing I was good at when school makes you feel bad about yourself and it’s low vibration,” Spence added.

Feature | Early March 2022