CMRStampedeOct2012

INSIDE: News.................

The Next Four Years Seniors prepare to vote in 2012 election Pg.04

the

stampede

Opinion..............

Cultures of the world Staff writer believes people should be informed about other religions Pg. 10

Centerspread......

Crossing borders Students from across the globe reveal experiences in a new land Pg. 12-13

Features.............

Playing Pretend Homecoming week provides wacky theme days, royalty, fun-filled Friday Pg. 14-15

Entertainment.....

Step Up To the Mic Monthly poetry slam helps teens share their perspectives Pg. 20

Sports................

Head Bangin’ Action Athletes react to head injuries on the field Pg. 21

An open forum for student expression

Dropping Out

Graduation Matters aims to lower student drop out rate c.m. russell high school great falls, mont. oct. 11, 2012 vol. 48, issue 2

www.rustlernews.com

The Stampede

2012-2013 Staff

HERE

lindsey buck

Lindsey Buck

online editor

caroline perkins

design editor

zach pottratz

visual content editor sierra rutledge abby lynes

opinion editor kendra hix

business manager tayler korb

features/entertainment editor jen verzuh

sports editor

peyton fulbright

adviser

beth britton

principal

dick kloppel

staff

greighsen adams brandi aguirre kasey bubnash tanner gliko tom gruner whisper harris katelin johnson tina keller gemma kern collin marquard paige maurer stephanie mccracken kim michelsen kaitlin mosely chandler pomeroy samantha popham hannah ragland olivia rudio julia segebarth joey serido emily shaulis katelyn smith natasha walker jesse whiteman joe wilmoth

228 17th avenue northwest (406) 268-6178 great falls, montana 59404 www.rustlernews.com

My blue Toyota Camry wears a bumper sticker that I purchased at a tourist store in Missoula, and I’m not even sure what half of the symbols on this sticker mean, but I know I believe in them.

Perhaps the most important part of this sticker is the word that all the symbols are centered around: “coexist.” It is possibly the most influential word of all time, and it is most definitely the greatest word that I’ve heard in my lifetime.

Hatred is overtaking every part of our world. Infuriation over a low budget movie threatens to uproot our society. I guess we had better watch where we put our video cameras. Or maybe we shouldn’t.

It’s a matter of “coexisting” in every way. We are guaranteed the freedom of speech, the freedom of religion, the freedom of press, and this also means the freedom of coexisting.

These rights amount to our ability to live next to each other, associate with one another, and love one another regardless of what we speak, believe, or do. As much as everyone chooses not to condone this video, they must recognize the horrid ethics behind imprisoning or killing the man who created it.

Each and every day, someone will step on someone else’s feet.

You may choose any religion or set of beliefs that you like, but you will still not avoid criticism and mockery.

These words don’t sound very nice, but perhaps they give us the lift that we need. Nothing is changed without a critic attempting to change it. No one evaluates the core of their beliefs until someone else mocks them.

All in all, no informed decision is made until one sees the harshest oppositions to what they believe.

Is it an honor to be able to stand for your beliefs, knowing both the pros and cons. So mock, if you must, criticize, if you must, but, most importantly, coexist like you must.

THE BUCK STOPS

editor-in-chief

news editor

The Stampede staff strives to produce a publication that is relevant to the CMR student body while maintaining journalistic standards. We help to provide a free exchange of ideas and establish a student voice in the school community.

Table of Contents 1 - Cover photo by Emily Shaulis 2 - Editorial policy, Editor’s letter 3 - NEWS - State dropout rates, Abby’s column 4 - Presidential election 5 - Candidate Forum 6 - Student representatives, food pantry 7 - OPINION - SRO, Kendra’s column, Rustler spirit 8 - Obama vs. Romney 9 - Filler words, new possibilities 10 - Exposure to religions 11 - FEATURES - Young Life, Jen’s column 12-13 - Foreign exchange students 14-15 - Homecoming 16 - Basic training, Ed McNamee 17 - ENTERTAINMENT - Reviews Fall Television 18 - Poetry Slam 19 - The Chart 20 - SPORTS - Traditions, Cross Country 21 - Concussions 22 - Caring for the football field, CMR football team 23 - Golf state, Volleyball, Soccer 24 - Zombie prep

Editorial Policy The Stampede -- produced by journalism classes at C.M. Russell High School -- is a public forum for all voices on campus. These voices include the students, parents, faculty and the community at large.

The opinions and views in this publication are not necessarily those of the Stampede staff, the student body, CMR employees or the school administration.

The Stampede strives to cover the news accurately and fairly; however, when a mistake is made, a correction will be printed in the following issue. All writers are responsible for the content of their articles.

Editors will edit all copy to be free of plagiarism and libel, and all writers will double-check their facts before publication.

Letters to the editor and guest essays are welcome. Letters are limited to 200 words, and essays 350 words. All submissions must be signed and include a phone number so authenticity can be verified. The editors and/or adviser reserve the right to edit all letters for grammar and spelling as well as content that may include profanity, be libelous, obscene or not meet general editorial guidelines. Anonymous letters are not accepted. Submissions can be dropped off in room 326 or e-mailed to: stampede@gfps.k12.mt.us.

The Stampede maintains membership in the Columbia Scholastic Press Association, the National Scholastic Press Association, the Journalism Education Association and Quill and Scroll.

Some material courtesy of American Society of Newspaper Editors/ KRT Campus High School Newspaper Service.

News

State droupout rates, presidential election, homeless students of CMR, candidate forum......

2013 graduating class potentially the smallest in CMR history

Abby Lynes

THE LYNES

READING BETWEEN

by emily shaulis, staff writer Students often have thoughts of ‘what would happen if I just quit’ or ‘I hate school! I’m done!’

“It is important to graduate,” Principal Dick Kloppel said.

Nearly 200 students drop out each year in Great Falls.

During the 09-10 school year, 52 students dropped out of CMR, and in 10-11 and 11-12, 38 students dropped out each year. Last year’s graduating class was the second smallest in the history of CMR with approximately 300 graduates. As of right now there are about 280 students planning to graduate at the end of the year.

Currently, there are 1,425 students at CMR. That number changes every day due to students moving away, coming in, and dropping out.

To combat the increasing number of dropouts, the district has a program called Graduation Matters that provides options and help for students struggling to stay in school.

“It’s amazing how many students don’t drop out because of friends,” Kloppel said.

Last year, students signed a slip of paper pledging to graduate. Not only did students sign the paper, but they were told to have a witness sign it as well.

“If your word is worth anything, you pledged to graduate,” Kloppel said. “It’s a pledge to [yourself].”

On Sept. 27, a Graduation Matters Luncheon was held at the McLaughlin Memorial Center to proclaim Sept. 27 as the official day for Graduation Matters.

Speakers included Denise Juneau, State Superintendent of Schools, Cheryl Crawley, Great Falls Public Schools Superintendent, and first graders from Sunnyside Elementary.

During the luncheon, first graders were introduced to the audience and asked a variety of questions by Richie Melby, KRTV Sport Director. The important question they were asked was ‘Are you ready for your graduation?’ The students responded with a positive “yes” and grins on their faces.

Outside of the building, a display of desks were set up – 137 to be exact. Each desk represented one student who had dropped out of high school. On each desk was a sign with a dropout’s name and why they dropped out.

Although a shocking number, Denise Juneau said that, “change is possible.” “[Kids are] still there, still learning, still dreaming,” Juneau said.

Crawley told theaudience she knows how important

the program is.

“For many years, many of us thought there were kids we were never going to be able to reach,” Crawley said.

Their goal for this program is to create adult support throughout the community.

“We’ve come as far as we can as a school system,”Crawley said.

Statistics show that 1.3 million students drop out each year in the United States. That’s 8,300 every day.

That also means that one out of every four kindergarteners will be a high school dropout. 36 percent of dropouts quit during their freshman year. 82 percent of American dropouts end up in prison, and high school graduates earn $260,000 more than dropouts during their lifetime.

GFHS senior Brittany Belgarde also spoke at the luncheon about her experience with Graduation Matters.

She said she grew up in a family with very few high school graduates and said that it was hard for her to adjust to moving from town to town, meeting new people, and learning a new curriculum in each school. She said her moral support was her grandmother.

“She inspired me to have a better life,” Belgarde said.

“If it wasn’t for her, I probably wouldn’t be graduating today.”

Not only did Belgarde struggle with staying in school, but Mayor Michael Winters also had his fair share of tough times in school.

In April of 1955, Winters was told that he wasn’t going to graduate and was not college material. He said it was a struggle, but he pulled through and he is happy

“Do you feel that you have received a good education in the public school system thus far?” is a question I was recently asked.

Never having pondered it before, it took me a while to determine my answer before deciding that it was yes. I am blessed to live in a country where there is equal opportunity for everyone, essentially free of charge. I am even more fortunate to live in a high-performing school district where I have had the chance to challenge myself and explore my interests with great freedom.

I have developed faith in America’s public education system, and the thought of someone taking away this worth and support is disheartening.

As the upcoming presidential election approaches, those with the opportunity to vote

he did.

In the future, Kloppel said he would like to involve businesses with the Graduation Matters program. Just as some businesses advertise ‘Meth: Not Even Once’, Kloppel would like to have them advertise Graduation matters, he said.

There is not a specific cause as to why students decide to drop out, but Kloppel said that some of the reasons are that some students get caught up in drugs and alcohol, their living situations are difficult, and they are lacking connections with parents, guardians, and teachers.

Tom Moore, Great Falls Public Schools AssistantSuperintendent, said that you can tell when there may be a potential dropout by looking at their attendance. “[It’s a sign of a dropout when] their attendance has been historically an issue,” Moore said.

In 08-09, there were 215 dropouts in the Great Falls Public Schools, and last year 137 students dropped out.

“I pray it never goes back up again,” Moore said.

Kloppel said his main goal for the students of CMR is that they make something of themselves and do something with their diplomas that they have worked to earn.

“Our goal isn’t for you to walk across the stage and for us to give you your diploma,” Kloppel said. “Our goal is for you to do something with that diploma.”

Top: 137 desks sit lined in rows outside of the McLaughlin Memorial Center on Sept. 27. Each desk represents one student who dropped out last year in Great Falls.

Above: Each desk had a name of a dropout and why they quit school. This student was named Austin and he said, “I got into legal trouble and things just got hard at home.” Photos by Emily

Shaulis.

are faced with two different plans for the future of education in the United States. One candidate has faith in the current free, public education system, where a low-income or disabled student’s parents could use their taxpayer dollars that go to public schooling and put it towards a private school tuition, devaluing the public education system.

If this system were to be put in place the publicly funded sector of education would most likely be geared towards students pursuing skilled trades or vocational careers, whereas the privately funded sector would be mainly for those working towards a professional career as a doctor, lawyer, engineer, etc. There would be a wider gap between the two working classes.

Truthfully, Romney’s voucher system would

require an overhaul of an existing act that dictates where special education funding will be spent, and the chances of that happening are unlikely, but if he is elected into office, there would be a lack of support for public education in favor of private or alternative institutions. In a nation full of “taxed enough Already” citizens, funding for public schooling could drop significantly should Governor Romney be elected into office.

Equal opportunity is key to the success of future generation of Americans, and if I was of legal age to vote in favor of it, I would.

For those who are 18 years of age and older, I urge you to consider your hopes and dreams for the future, and vote for the candidate who will make your dreams a reality.

The Stampede 10.11.12

04 -- News

Red White & Blue

Republican candidate Mitt Romney and President Barack Obama faced off at a debate involving the economy, the deficit, and the future of America on Oct. 3 in Colorado. Zhang Jun/Xinhua/Zuma Press/MCT.

Seniors weigh in on 2012 presidential election, best decision for four years by lindsey buck, editor-in-chief It’s all about red, blue, and a booth. People will be cramming into their cars, disobeying speed limits, and wearing out their writing hands.

Above all else on that day, social studies teacher Brian Halverson said he hopes that students are “aware, informed, and active.”

With the 2012 presidential election getting closer every day, CMR students and staff are preparing to cast their votes. Voting takes place on Tuesday, Nov. 6, and will help determine the next president of the country: Mitt Romney or Barack Obama.

Senior Devony Smith, missing the deadline to vote, still finds herself to be “someone who look[s] into things,” and is inspired by the election, she said.

Smith said she finds herself in favor of Obama for a variety of reasons. According to her, some of the most important conflicts are social issues.

“People act like abortion and gay marriage are moral issues when they’re not; they’re issues of a person’s right to themselves,” Smith said.

From a young age, Smith said that the issue of gay rights inspired her to be involved with politics, and it-

continues to be an issue she feels strongly about. However, in addition to her social beliefs, Smith said she agrees with Obama on many economic issues as well.

“He’s obviously more for the middle class and less for tax cuts on rich people,” Smith said. “I’m in complete support of his healthcare policy.”

Beyond her support for the Democratic Party, Smith said she also finds problems within the campaign and policies of Republican Mitt Romney.

“I think that when he’s giving speeches he isn’t really talking about politics at all,” she said. “If we did a 180 and elected a Republican, I don’t feel like any progress would be made at all. It’s a step backwards in my point of view.”

However, when senior Haleigh Harris looks at the social and economic issues, she said she finds herself in support of the Republican agenda. According to Harris, Romney’s ideas relate closely to hers on a debate that is close to home: education.

“I love what Mitt is doing for the education of low income and special needs kids; he wants low income and special needs to be able to choose what schools they go to,” she said.

Harris said she also is disappointed with the changes in the economy that she has seen over the last four years.

“I think what Obama has done in the last four years hasn’t really helped us,” she said. “[The Affordable Health Care Act] put more taxes on us. Mitt will be able to get us out of [these] taxes and help the economy.”

Along with Romney’s economic policies, Harris said she also agrees with Romney’s social ideas.

Harris said she considers herself pro-life and believes that marriage should remain between a man and a woman.

All controversies aside, Halverson said that he truly hopes that students don’t “just [vote] to vote.”

“I personally like it when voters are able to see through the more obvious political games that are played,” he said.

Left: Barack Obama supporters rallied at the Democratic National Convention in Charlotte, North Carolina to watch the Democratic nomination for the 2012 election. Chris Sweda/Chicago Tribune/MCT. Right: GOP presidential nominee Mitt Romney greets supporters at a rally at the Van Dyck Park in Fairfax, Virginia. Olivier Douliery/Abaca Press/MCT.

Rather than these games, Halverson said, students should pay attention to “qualities of leadership” and “core philosophies of candidates.”

“Care enough when you’re darkening in those ovals.

Care enough about what you’re doing to at least do a little bit of background and make sure when you vote that it’s your vote and that, in that moment in time, it’s the best vote you have.”

News -- 05

10.11.12 The Stampede

Representatives take stand

Candidates provide ideas on education policy, influence voters to get involved by abby lynes, news editor “If we want to have the greatest economy, the greatest opportunity for our children, we need to do better than we have been,” gubernatorial candidate Rick Hill said.

Along with stressing the need for flexibility within the education budget, Hill said that he will work on cutting taxes if elected.

“It’s not that [Montanans] can’t support education; they can’t afford [it].”

Hill said he wants a stronger alliance between college and high school curriculum.

“I find it absolutely unacceptable that we don’t have alignment with high school and college education,” he said.

Hill is in favor of data driven evaluations, using revenue gained from natural resources to fund public education, and the school voucher system.

Overall, he hopes to maintain what Montana’s education system is doing right, and improve its shortcomings, he said.

“We need to preserve what’s going good and take on the challenges in our education system.”

by jesse whiteman, staff writer Gubernatorial candidate Steve Bullock said that he wants to focus on students and their ability to use technology.

“Schools are [going to] have more advanced technology,” Bullock said.

He said that he is going to make sure that there is a solid foundation for the schools to build upon.

“Tenure doesn’t protect a bad teacher,” he said. “It protects good teachers from getting discharged.”

With recent conflicts over tenure, he said that he supports it. “[Tenure is] more or less a national solution looking for a problem in Montana,” he said.

Along with teacher tenure, Bullock said that he wants to make changes for students in schools as well. He said that he wants students to accept that they learn in different ways.

“Every student has that opportunity to reach their potential.”

by abby lynes, news editor Rick Hill and Steve Bullock, gubernatorial candidates, met with candidates for Superintendent of Public Instruction at the MSU-COT of Great Falls on Oct. 8 to discuss their policies on education.

Hill and Bullock both proposed using revenue earned from natural resources in Montana to increase funding in public education. Bullock was in favor of maintaining schools’ tenure

by abby lynes, news editor Republican Sandy Welch addressed the crowd at the open candidate forum, stating that she supports teacher evaluations based on data.

“Data is a tool to identify strengths and weaknesses,” she said.

Welch is also in favor of using revenue gained from natural resources to increase funding for public education.

“We need to utilize our natural resources,” she said.

Beyond school funding, Welch said she believes strongly that the inside of school s need improvement. She said she believes that standard test scores are important and that teachers’ influences are tremendous on students.

Welch said that teachers must “move from lecturing to coaching,” and attempt to “provide support.”

She said she believes that she has an ability to “identify strengths and weaknesses” in schools and policies, and has the ability to “honor” her “obligations” if elected.

“Schools and teachers need to help students grow. The office of public instruction needs to provide support.”

programs, while Hill said that he believes in rewarding teachers based on effectiveness shown in test scores.

Both candidates agree that schools in Montana need advances in technology.

Candidates for Superintendent of Public Instruction, Denise Juneau and Sandy Welch, both agreed that more emphasis needs to be put on improving performance on assessments and common core standards.

by jesse whiteman, staff writer Superintendent candidate Denise Juneau said that she has a firm stance on Graduation Matters Great Falls and intends to raise the graduation rate.

Due to Juneau’s push for higher graduation rates, she has made record accomplishments.

“Our test scores are up and dropout rates are down,” Juneau said.

She said that the children in the schools are becoming more involved in extra-curricular activities such as Heath Occupations of America (HOSA).

Juneau also said that one of her goals it to teach children how to use modern day technology.

“There are current programs in place to help school districts.”

Whereas Juneau would want to put more regulations on the way schools spend the lump sum of money that they receive, Welch argued that schools need more flexibility.

Both candidates agreed that early childhood education is the next step to improving the general education system in Montana.

Overall, each candidate at the forum was given the opportunity to relay their ideas to the public and influence the voters of Montana.

The Stampede 10.11.12

06 -- News

Representatives stand up for CMR students, listen in on board meetings by katelyn smith, staff writer Embracing senior year, student representative Jess DellaRossa embarks on making long lasting memories with good friends.

DellaRossa became a student representative for the 2012-2013 school year. Representatives engage in school board meetings and provide a student voice in decisions for education and the future of CMR. “It was a really good learning opportunity,” DellaRossa said.

According to DellaRossa, the learning experience was the reason she wanted to be a student representative.

The student representatives meet with school district super intendants at the District Office twice a month, but they are only required to go to the first of the two meetings. There are two representatives from each high school: two from Great Falls High, Paris, and CMR.

“Before we go to the meetings, we meet with Mr.Kloppel to discuss what we should talk about while we’re there,” DellaRossa said.

According to DellaRossa, they discuss any issues that could be happening at the schools, or what could or will be improved.

“I really wanted the students’ voice to be heard,” DellaRossa said.

Senior Braden Murphy had the same vision.

“Mr.Kloppel asked me to [become a student representative] and it sounded like a great opportunity,” Murphy said.

Murphy said, their job is to make changes within the school and “talk with the board reps about what is going on in the school.”

“I enjoy listening to the talks about what is going on in other schools around the community,” he said. “It’s pretty interesting.”

Giving powder puff fans donate non-perishable items to the Great Falls Community Food Bank on Oct. 1. Photo by Tom Gruner.

CMR food pantry works to feed students, families by reaching out to community for grants when they have to box food for families by olivia rudio,staff writer If it takes a village to raise a child, for the winter break.

Due to the hardships of having to what does it take to feed 400?

The food pantry program carried over feed so many people each week, the food from North Middle School to C.M. Russell pantry is seeking student involvement.

“I’d like High School last year. The students to take work to stock the pantry “It’s great to know you leadership within begins with shopping for can make a difference in the school,” Lewis food at the Great Falls said.

Community Food Bank at someone’s life,” Annie Lewis.

With parent $0.19 a pound. v o l u n t e e r s The money comes in through things like a $2,500 General already involved, Lewis hopes to Mills grants to local donations, churches, get more students interested in the elementary schools, and the Great Falls program through hosting food drives or fundraisers with their clubs to help food foundation board.

“We’ll take anything,” food pantry support the pantry.

Support for the pantry is important to advisor Deborah Lewis said.

Last year, 371 students used the Lewis because feeding kids is a need the pantry on a daily basis, and food boxes community is not aware of.

However, according to Lewis, were assembled for 205 families.

“Families that come through to get the food pantry is something the food are so thankful,” Lewis said. “I community needs; after the food pantry was established APs reported a rise mean, they’re crying.”

However, feeding nearly 400 in attendance, behavior and academic people a day is no cake walk, according improvement.

“It’s great to know you can make a to sophomore Annie Lewis.

The work can be time consuming, difference in someone’s life,” Annie said.

Lewis said, especially around Christmas “Food just makes a difference.”

[

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Showing their true colors, seniors Jess DellaRossa and Braden Murphy sport CMR gear on Oct. 5.

Photo by Beth Britton.

Opinion

Filler words, Head2head, Religion in schools

Homecoming spirit inspires celebration, involvement Every year at CMR for Homecoming week, students and staff show school spirit by dressing up, decorating the halls, and cheering on our Powder Puff and football teams.

We at the Stampede are amazed by the excellent work of the participants. On Monday, every grade had a different country to celebrate in the form of pretty funky outfits. From ninjas to Uncle Sam we saw so many people in costumes that we would like to applaud. Congratulations to the sophomores and seniors who won 18-6 at the Powder Puff game.

Tuesday we thought the senior hall Our opinion looked pretty cool. The hut was an interestOur school ing touch, and the tiger was very well done.

Our voice Needless to say, every year we are happy to wander the hallways. We are proud of how everybody supports CMR during Homecoming week.

On Wednesday students dressed up in their class Tshirts. The student government worked hard on the T-shirt designs and we think they looked amazing. Many staff members wore shirts from their own high school days.

On Thursday the king and queen rocked the stage during the coronation assembly. Queen Erica Gettis and King Lance Hewitt greeted their “subjects” and led the royalty throughout the remainder of the week. We all looked too fancy to be at school.

Friday was green and gold day. The parade, soccer games, football game, and the dance were packed into one busy day.

Green and gold finery covered everyone and everything. A lot of students wore jerseys to support our football team.

The pep band “super hero” had a full green body suit.

At the parade we saw everybody’s floats. Some were bigger than others, but everybody’s float was fun.

The football game was great. We beat the Helena High School Bengals 27-17. Even though it was really cold, evStudent government is a big part of Homecoming.

They plan all the meetings and get the word out to STUDENT GOVERNMENT their classmates to get many people involved in float building, hallway decorating, and class dress up days.

Student government as a whole takes pride in making homecoming a positive, memorable, experience for all CMR students.

This year student government has made it a mission to bring

GINGER SNAP

Kendra Hix

Tess Sandefur Student Body Secretary/Treasurer

SRO NICK TAYLOR

Cartoon by Joe Wilmoth and Katelin Johnson.

erybody had enough spirit to still go to the game. They had blankets, layers of clothes, and hot chocolate to give them enough energy to keep cheering on the football team.

The dance followed the game; all you saw were people having a good time and glow sticks in the crowd. It was a blast; everyone was on the floor dancing to the music and there was even a “ninja” crowd surfing. There were also a few dance-offs.

Overall, Homecoming week was a fun filled time for all of us Rustlers. We all came together and bonded with laughter. Well done, CMR.

back more school spirit. This includes having theme Thursdays, other dress up days, and getting the word out about home sports games and upcoming sports events.

By informing the student body about school events, we hope to attract more crowds at games and more participation at other school related activities to try and get all students more involved at CMR. Memorable moments like Homecoming are fun ways to get students excited about being a part of the CMR student body.

Student government really wants to make this year as enjoyable as possible for all students at our school.

A couple weeks ago, I met a girl wearing a blue jackalope hat.

And honestly, my first thought was, what is wrong with her?

But she’s just like me. She’s a little shy, a little insecure; and if that silly hat makes her feel better then kudos to her.

Does she love jackalopes? I’m not sure; I didn’t ask. But to me, her wearing that hat was her making a statement. It was her way of saying, “I’m me.”

My point with the Jackalope Girl’s story is to ask, who are you? And whoever you are, do you

embrace it? Or keep it hidden with a bunch of junk that you love but to everyone else is just junk?

So, I’ve been thinking about it and here’s what I’ve come up with.

I’m judgmental, sarcastic and most of the time, sassy. I love The Walking Dead and warm sweaters from Goodwill. I like winter the best. I say that I hate people but really, I’m amazed at what they can accomplish, whether it’s in love or in hate.

I love to talk to people about stuff like religion and things that are important to them. I love buying new shampoo and new books.

I have an OCD about reading used books and if

As fall and winter approach, we all start to find ourselves getting busy. Fall athletics are in full swing, the music department is getting ready for concerts and all of you are probably starting to find yourselves getting buried in schoolwork.

Unfortunately, it seems the cooler weather also brings out the worst driving habits in all of us, based on the increased number of accidents in our parking lots and the area surrounding the school.

Driving safety is an issue that affects everybody on a daily basis. Just some key things to remember when you are behind the wheel of a vehicle when you are around the school: Although it’s not posted, there is a speed limit in the parking lot. Just like any parking lot, keep the speeds to 15 mph or less.

Again, it’s not posted, but state law says you must stop prior to exiting any parking lot or private driveway.

If you are involved in a parking lot accident, by law you must identify yourself. If nobody is in the vehicle that you struck, simply leaving your name and phone number on the victim vehicle is sufficient for reporting.

A big concern is the intersections near Riverview Elementary School. Many of those intersections are not controlled by a stop sign or a yield sign. Make sure you yield to any vehicles to the right of you at the intersection, as they have the right of way.

The main thing that we all need to keep in mind is the safety of those around us. Following traffic laws and staying safe reduces your chances of getting into a wreck and keeps your insurance rates down. If you have any questions about any traffic laws, please come see me.

my room isn’t clean, I can’t do my homework. And most importantly, I am a huge journalism nerd.

Aside from a few things I mentioned there, I’m sure that people who really know me would describe me as such.

I’m tired of people pretending to be someone they aren’t, so I ask, be yourself, be the best part of yourself, because you are an incredibly fantastic being.

08 -- Opinion

Obama stands up for women’s rights by jennifer verzuh, features and entertainment editior

There are so many ways I could start this article. So many points and facts I could use to my advantage, but since I’m allowed only a certain amount of space I’m choosing to focus on one specific issue that is very close to my heart, as well as other organs. Women’s rights.

I don’t want to say that Mitt Romney and Paul Ryan don’t care about females at all. However, they don’t care enough.

For example, Ryan previously voted against the Lily Ledbetter Fair Pay Act (President Obama’s first bill), which supports equal pay for women. I don’t see how anyone living in 21st century America could vote against this act.

But that’s not even the worst of Ryan’s wrongdoings towards women.

He supported a bill, nicknamed by Democrats the “Let Women Die Act,” that would allow hospitals to refuse abortion care to women, even if the pregnancy is putting her life at risk.

Ryan and Romney both want to defund Planned Parenthood, Romney on the federal level. Obama, on the other hand, has fought against Republicans on this subject, and as a young woman I cannot say how grateful I am for that.

Planned Parenthood Advocates of Montana grassroots organizer Melissa Barcroft said she cannot stress enough how important the organization is in the Great Falls community and the negative impact its defunding would have in our state.

“There are about 27,000 women in Montana who use Planned Parenthood’s services,” she said.

And according to Barcroft, many people have false impressions about Planned Parenthood and the work it does.

“97 percent of what Planned Parenthood does is preventive,” she said. Additionally, it is already illegal to use tax payer funds to pay for abortions, with the exception of cases of rape, incest, or danger to the mother’s life, so those who oppose funding Planned Parenthood simply for the reason that they perform abortions should know that their taxes are indeed not going towards abortions.

Barcroft also said that federal defunding of Planned Parenthood would leave many Montanans without access to reproductive services.

“In Montana it’s a lot more difficult

Head 2 Head

to receive reproductive health,” she said, adding that Planned Parenthood also caters to more low income women.

“Every dollar invested in preventive reproductive care saves $3.74 (in taxes),” Barcroft said.

Obama has proven with the Affordable Care Act (Obamacare) that he will act on the behalf of women across the country. Under the act, new health insurance plans must provide coverage for birth control, mammograms, and preventive screenings. Additionally, it mandates that insurance companies no longer can make females pay more for their coverage than males. Romney and Ryan have publicly criticized the act, and if elected they plan to repeal Obamacare.

Also, during his four years as president he’s created the White House Council on Women and Girls, which according to barackobama.com, “support[s] fair treatment in all matters of public policy.”

Being a young woman in these uncertain times is scary and that’s why I want a president in office who will stand up for my rights as a human being and as a woman. So I’m endorsing Barack Obama.

Let me leave you with this quote from Obama at the first Presidential Debate in case you’re still in doubt over whether or not he deserves another term as our nation’s president.

“Four years ago I said that I’m not a perfect man and I wouldn’t be a perfect president and that’s probably a promise that Governor Romney thinks I’ve kept. But I also promised that I’d fight every single day on behalf of the American people, the middle class, and all those who are striving to go into the middle class. I’ve kept that promise.

And if you vote for me I promise I’ll fight just as hard in the 2nd term.”

The Stampede 10.11.12

Romney has legacy, holds keys to presidency

by kimbely michelsen, staff writer

Honestly, I didn’t know much about politics at all before I volunteered to do this piece. Then I went about researching all I could about Mitt Romney and Barack Obama. What I found was quite interesting.

When I visited the official web site of President Obama, almost the only things I saw were negative articles about Romney. I think that if Obama had any plan to help our country, that he would be all about that, not about crushing his opponent.

Romney’s web site, however, was much more pleasing to my eye. It was easily navigable, and I learned about his five-point plan for the country.

One of the points in his plan is to help small businesses. I work in a small business. I’m the only employee, and I work only four hours a week. This is because we’re struggling. There are taxes to pay and regulations to meet.

Romney promises to lower taxes and stop regulations from increasing. That would help me so much, and perhaps our business would be better because of it.

Another one of his points is to improve the international trade in America. I go to the store to pick out new clothes, or maybe some supplies for school. I don’t know about you, but I usually check, out of curiosity, where the item was made.

Do you have any idea the pleasure I feel when I see a tag with the words “Made in the USA?” I challenge you right now to go look at any of your possessions at home and find something that is made in the USA. It feels amazing. That’s the goal that Romney is fighting for, and I like it.

I also learned about an interesting story about Hal and Corinne Prewitt, the couple who bought Romney’s old house in 2009. It revealed Romney’s true character, and how he acts outside of the public eye.

I am convinced by his kindness and values, detailed in the Prewitt story, and I believe he would be a

president who is truly trustworthy and dignified. He would run this country like he runs his house, organized and with respect for everyone’s beliefs.

Romney has a legacy. He was called in to take over the Salt Lake City Winter Olympics in 1999 because he was an excellent businessman. He had so much experience with creating more jobs and helping small businesses grow into flourishing companies that the committee knew he could solve their financial problems.

But those weren’t the only problems with the 2002 Olympics. Everyone knows what happened on Sept. 11, 2001, but few people know how that event almost cancelled the Olympics. Romney had to fight for people’s trust while inventing a security system that allowed all the spectators and athletes to feel absolutely protected.

Romney was the governor of Massachusetts from 2002-2007.

Throughout his leadership, Romney caught the state’s economy in its tailspin, and started whipping it around the other way. He eliminated the state’s $3 billion deficit without raising taxes or borrowing. By the end of his term, Romney had instilled enough discipline in the government that Massachusetts had $2 billion in its “rainy day fund.”

We don’t need another lying politician to get us out of this declining economy; we need a businessman.

In 1984, before he entered the public eye, Romney founded the investment firm Bain Capital. They started by taking a single office supply store called Staples and transforming it into more than 2,000 stores employing 90,000 people. Staples isn’t the only example of Romney business savvy. Dominos, Sealy, Burger King, and Home Depot are some of the other businesses that Romney’s firm assisted in growth.

I can see the talent Romney has for making people grow and helping their dreams come true.

His past speaks for him. If the United States is to succeed and excel, I believe that Romney is the right man for the job.

Opinion -- 09

10.11.12 The Stampede

Use of filler words must stop to preserve society’s intelligence by peyton fulbright, sports editor “So like, I was um, like walking down the street when like, this uh, like cat jumped and like bit me, and um now I like have a like, infection and might um, like die… so like, yeah.”

Filler words. They turned a completely interesting story about your experience with a cat into a steaming pile of auditory manure. When someone talks to me, and I realize how often they use filler words, it starts to drive me crazy. It can turn an intelligent person into someone who isn’t well spoken and can’t be taken as seriously as they deserve to be, all because of the way they deliver their message.

The really weird thing is that is has become such a staple of our culture to throw in “like,” “um,” and “yeah” into conversation when it is uncalled for. Think about it: Does it make sense to say something was “like” incredible, when you actually mean it was incredible?

Using an incessant supply of filler

words makes you sound ridiculous, and removing them from your speech makes you seem like an intelligent person. You still will have the same thoughts, but you will look more sure of yourself, making it appear as a fact, rather then your opinion.

Because of this, I am trying to stop using filler words, mainly “like.”

The person who made me start to really think hard about this was my seventh grade art teacher. Most everyone thought he was a grumpy old man, and I thought so too when I first met him. What I didn’t realize was how much he would teach me, but not about art. About life.

Recently for reasons I can’t explain, I started thinking about things he said in class. One particular day, he went off an a rant after a student used “like” millions of times while asking for a pencil, but what he said never made sense to me until I thought about it this year.

He said how kids these days are afraid of silence. They are too afraid to sit down

Like

Like OK? Ya know?OK? Uhm...

Uhm... Like Like

and make eye contact with someone while nobody is talking, which is why they use the filler words. They’re also fooled into thinking they will sound stupid if they stop to think about their word choice in the middle of conversation. It’s not that they think it sounds cool; it’s just become an instinct based off culture and society, so they subconsciously think they need to.

Equally frustrating is how people will look for validation at the end of a statement, usually by saying “okay” or “you know?” I think the problem is that they feel like they need to know someone is listening. Not to get all “lie down on my psychology couch,” but it probably has something to do with people not listening to them at some point.

So in the realization of what my art teacher said, I am trying to stop using filler words, and you should too. I’m being a brave person by not being terrified of silence. Plus, it makes me like, seem smarter…. You know?

Open yourself up to new possibilities by kendra hix, opinion editor Sometimes we have to do things we don’t want to. Sometimes we don’t like how something goes but we have to accept it anyway.

There will come a day when someone will ask you to do something and though it seems like the most nervewracking thing you can think of you should do it anyway.

I can almost promise that everything will be OK. You won’t die, or be maimed from reading out loud in class for a few minutes.

No one is going to laugh when you can’t pronounce a word, when you don’t know how to do a problem. So, just do it.

Raise your hand and volunteer. Don’t be afraid of your peers, because chances are they’re just as scared.

Other than straining your voice and making high notes difficult, there’s literally nothing to worry about.

Try something new and hold that twinge of annoyance from your voice; five minutes of opportunity will only better your future.

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The Stampede 10.11.12

10 -- Opinion

People need to be educated about religions other than their own

America is a huge melting pot of different by whisper harris, staff writer If I had to count the number of days I’ve races, background and cultures. Just under 79 spent learning about a religion other than percent of the American population claims to be Christian. That is no excuse to become Christianity, I could do it on two fingers.

Two days during Essentials of World History complacent and forget other religions. They was the only time that a teacher has taken the matter, and the people who believe in them time to talk accurately and informatively about matter.

In America, 1.7 percent of the religion, all types of religions, population claims to be Jewish, .7 how they were formed, who Top percent Buddhist, .6 percent Muslim, formed them, who practices and 16 percent said they were them, and what they believe. unaffiliated with a religious sect, This is sad to me because according to religions.pewforum. students should be exposed to org. religion. Not that we should Though those numbers can feel teach that religions are true, small and insignificant, they’re not. I but that they are out there, websites to doubt that half of the people reading people do practice them, and learn about this could tell me the main principles people thoroughly believe their of these world religions. teachings. religion If the people in our nation don’t We all will be affected by 1) religion at some point in our http://www.bbc.co.uk/religion/ take time to understand people who view things differently, then how lives, whether by a neighbor, religions/\ can we expect people to do the same colleague, family member, or an 2) for us? How can we expect them to acquaintance http://www.religionfacts.com/ respect us when we don’t respect It’s not OK to make jokes them? diminishing someone else’s 3) And I can understand that it’s opinion just because it’s http://www.pewforum.org/Ch urch-State-Law/Religion-in-scary to exit our comfort zones, but unfamiliar to us. But I hear a lot the-Public-Schools.aspx we need to. Religion is everywhere, of them, and they make me angry and the more we know about it, the because they are all based on 4) http://www.bestplaces.net/reli more chances, opportunities and stereotypes, not fact. gion/state/montana experiences we can have, and when We should be educated about we start to realize this, the world will religions, even the ones that are 5) http://www.huffingtonpost.co be a much better place. hard for us Americans to talk m/religion/ Photo by Kendra Hix. about, like the Muslim faith.

5

Powder Puff needs more power, presence at CMR all people should be able to play this great by sammy popham, staff writer I sit on the sidelines watching my American sport.

I had both good and bad experiences teammates, determination on their faces and tension throughout their bodies. The during Powder Puff football. It was fun stadium is full and the crowd is cheer- being able to hang out, play football with my friends, and learning something new ing. each practice. It is a big If only we could challenge, however. In see this for a whole “We should give more Powder Puff, athletes do season. opportunities to our not have padding or any Powder Puff is a students.” other kind of protection football competition Sammy Popham other than a mouthguard featuring girls who so it kind of hurts when get to play one game you run into someone else. as a Homecoming tradition.

I never played any other kind of footI don’t think we should get only one game per year. I think it’s unfair that guys ball, so as a freshman, it was definitely get to play football for a whole season new to me.

At the first practice I felt out of place and we don’t get to. I understand there are some sports that guys don’t play at because I didn’t know about football and CMR-- like softball or volleyball-- but others did. The coaches were yelling at football is popular in America and I think us, telling us to pick offense or defense.

I didn’t know where any of these places

[

]

were or what they did. At first I tried to be a receiver, but then I quickly realized that I could not catch. So I ended up being put on the offensive line as a guard.

I only had one problem with this. I am small and not strong. If I truly tried to block a senior, I knew I would not stand a chance. Every practice had a new challenge, but I tried my hardest. I practiced blocking and running with my friends when we weren’t running through plays, but nothing could have prepared me for the actual game.

On Oct. 1 we had our game at Memorial Stadium. I was nervous because I did not really feel prepared. I stretched and got ready to hit the field and started playing. I was disappointed when I got to go in only once to do two plays in the second quarter. The first play went well for our team, but not for me; we scored the first and only touchdown of the game, but I

got too scared to get hit so I stopped trying to block anybody.

In the next play I was determined to block someone, so when I heard the word “Hike!” I ran for the closest person to me.

It was like running into a brick wall; I hit her and all I did was bounce off of her and stand there dazed.

Feeling like an idiot, I walked back to my team. After that all I did was stand on the sidelines for the rest of the game. It was disappointing, but I am a freshman.

Powder Puff was fun yet challenging.

We should give more opportunities to our students. It would give each gender more choices and more challenges than just the same sports they have been able to play since elementary school. We should have a seasonal Powder Puff football team and a seasonal softball or volleyball team for guys.

Features

young life,A whole new world, homecoming

Leaders, students build relationships, knowledge at Young Life clubs by kasey bubnash, staff writer

Jennifer Verzuh

JEN

IT’S RAINING

“I got it! I got it!” CMR senior Peyton Nelson cried as the creamy side of an Oreo slid down her face and into her mouth. Everyone cheered, other than the defeated contestants, who removed the cookies from their faces and ate them with growing jealousy of the winner.

As the group finished cleaning up the crumby mess on the ground, the students quieted their voices and turned their attention to leader Jake Clark, who began to speak about the Bible. From games to prayers, it is safe to say that Young Life is not the usual youth group.

Young Life is an organization committed to helping high school students improve their relationship not only with God, but also with their peers and parents. Each week there is club on Monday and campaigners on Tuesday, unless school events or any other issues get in the way of the usual schedule.

The flexibility of the Young Life agenda is an important aspect of the program.

There are several Young Life leaders assigned to each school in Great Falls, and they get to know students on a more personal level than teachers or tutors would.

“The leaders are people I can confide in,” Nelson said. “Young Life is something I can look forward to every week.”

Young Life leader Jake Clark started in the program as a student himself.

Going to school in Minnesota in the 90’s, Clark said he went to a Young Life summer camp and never missed another event. Clark loves working with high school kids because they are full of life and energy.

“Kids that come to Young Life feel cared for,” Clark said. “It is awesome to watch kids discover who they are in this world. I get a front row seat for that.”

On Mondays, Young Life tends to have a more relaxed mood. A wide variety of games are played, from the Oreo game above, to wheel barrel races and eating contests. Then the group usually joins together to sing songs, but not the Christian tunes you might expect. The crowd usually starts with something like “Don’t Stop Believin’”

by Journey, and ends with songs like “Call Me Maybe” by Carly Rae Jepsen.

“Singing songs is my favorite part of Young Life,” senior Hunter Smith said.

“I also like getting to hang out with my friends.”

Although still a good time, Young Life Tuesdays can take a turn for the serious. The leaders and students gather round in a close circle, open their Bibles and discuss how Jesus plays a role in everyday life. Usually led by Clark, it is an open lecture in which the students and leaders are able to ask questions and discuss the true meaning of the Bible.

“It’s a subtle and fun way to learn about Jesus,” Nelson said. “Young Life has definitely changed my relationship with God.” The overall objective of Young Life is to provide a safe and amusing place where students from CMR have the opportunity to learn about God. With all of the high school homework and activities keeping students busy, it can be difficult to find time to really learn about the Bible and faith, Clark said.

Young Life is a flexible program that works around kids’ schedules. Whether people have doubts about God or if they

Books and movies. Two of my biggest and truest loves, next to seafood alfredo (don’t ask).

However, while they hold an equal place in my heart when it comes to a novel’s transformation into a film, there is always a clear winner and a loser, as there is in relationships. And to let you in on a little known secret, books aren’t always better than the movie (unless the film in question is “Eragon,” which was indeed truly horrific).

Oh, and changing certain things is not necessarily a bad idea. Let’s examine this (occasionally) controversial topic.

Certain hardcore book fans actually get upset when they find out their favorite book is getting

are full blown believers, Young Life opens its arms to anyone and everyone, Clark added.

“I think Young Life is super fun,” Clark said. “We don’t want kids that come to Young Life to feel any pressure.

There is too much pressure on high schoolers already.”

It is safe to say that the students and leaders that are involved in Young Life are passionate about the program and what it does. Kids who participate gain not only knowledge about the Bible, but lasting friendships with their peers and leaders. The schedule is never quite the same for the spontaneous Young Life participants, so if you are interested in checking it out, you can contact leader Jake Clark or interested students.

“Young Life is caring, Christian adults who go into the world of kids and help them understand who Jesus is,” Clark said. “I think that Young Life is the most exciting thing happening in our community today.”

adapted into a movie. To these people I say: seriously? Do you not realize that by becoming a film the actual book will get so much more attention and readers? Don’t be a book hipster: share the awesomeness of literature with all.

Plus, admit it, it is kind of awesome to see a book come to life. I know, I know, it “ruins” your imagination. But honestly, who cares? Watching the final fight scene come to life in “Harry Potter 7: Part II” was about a hundred times cooler in the theaters than it was in my head as I read it alone in my room.

Not to mention the excitement and community it creates. Heading to the midnight

Top: CMR seniors Peyton Nelson, Hunter Smith, Nathan Peterson and Blayne Kent play a game at a Young Life club.

Bottom: CMR Young Life on annual ski trip last season. Photos courtesy of Kathryn Kruithoff.

For information about Young Life call: Jake Clark (406) 788-0844 Kathryn Kruithoff (406) 231-1681

showing dressed up as your favorite characters with all your friends is a total “priceless” scrapbook moment.

And yes, movies do in fact change and even at times cut parts from the book. Sorry, but if you want to see a word-for-word, action-foraction retelling you are out of luck, they simply don’t exist. Things are going to be different.

Deal with it. It doesn’t necessarily mean it’s any worse.

The Stampede 10.11.12

14 -- Features

Students, staff reflect on Homecoming activities

Steve Olson directs the Chamber Orchestra at Thursday’s Coronation Assembly. Photo by Beth Britton.

by tom gruner, staff writer

Terri Dahl has been working with Homecoming Coronation and the parade for longer than most students at CMR have been alive. She’s the “go-to person” for all involving Homecoming for 19 years.

“It really sets the stage for the year,” coronation director Dahl said.

Dahl, math departement leader, first got introduced to the Homecoming scene when she started bringing her own kids to the parade after they first came to CMR. She ended up taking over for Don Kenzca after he retired.

When it comes to finding something new for Homecoming week, it’s always a struggle, Dahl said.

“Sometimes they all look alike and I like to find something new,” she said.

Not all opinions shared by students were com-

Students enjoy Friday afternoon’s Homecoming barbeque. Photo by Tom Gruner.

pletely positive.

“It was good. Honestly, I liked last year’s much better,” sophomore Myschelle Kothrade said. Even though Kothrade didn’t like the assembly as much as last year’s, she still enjoyed the royalty.

Even though some students did not favor this year’s assembly as much, there was still students who did, on the other hand, enjoy it.

“I liked the assembly. It was interesting,” junior Sarah Johnson said. “The best part of the assembly was the Russell Ayres singing.”

To end the school week at CMR, there was the annual Homecoming barbeque.

“I liked socializing with others and getting out early,” sophomore Jade Hilbig said.

Being held at school after an early out, the barbeque gives students the chance to not only enjoy

themselves, but also interact with others that they may not usually talk to.

“It gives us a chance for more mingling between the grades,” Hilbig said.

Following the barbeque is the CMR Homecoming parade, where students, parents, and staff line the streets to support participants.

The parade, was appreciated by sophomore Brittany Leuchten this year.

“I thought it was better organized this year,” Leuchten said. “My favorite part was seeing all the floats. I thought they were well made this year.”

The parade consisted of all types of floats and different contributions from the CMR community. From class floats to dance teams, music groups to clubs.

“It’s a nice way to introduce the freshmen[to the school],” Dahl said.

Dancing down Central Avenue during the Oct. 5 Homecoming parade, the Wranglers boost school spirit in preparation for the football game. Photo by Stephanie McCracken.

Olympian Jesse Owens, painted by CMR stagecraft and art departments.

Features -- 15

10.11.12 The Stampede

Teens and tiaras

A Royal Q&A

Seniors

Juniors

Sophomores

Class T-shirt day

Dress up day

Blaize Wegner, 11

Melanie Locke, 10

Thursday

Kassandra Harvey, 10

Courteney Shovlin,9

Wacky sports day

Isiah Yates, 11 Chase Marmon, 10

Taylon Kangas, 12

Cole Meyers, 10

Dress like your class country

y

a Wednesd

Benjamin Evans and Mikaela Cappis

Stu Gray and Michelle Braget

Tuesday

Warren Krone and McKenna Fromm

Daekwon Carter and Gwen Malisani

Remington Frick and Jade Decker

y

Monda

Jess Stenzel and Jess DellaRossa

Taylon Kangas and Tayler Korb

Lance Hewitt and Erica Gettis

Andrew Grinde and Stevi Farren

Freshmen

Homecoming Royalty 2012

Jacob Beirwagen and Shea Eve

by stephanie mccracken, staff writer Q: What was your royalty experience like?

Gettis: It’s always really exciting.

Hewitt: It was honestly a shock because I never expected it to happen, but it was nice to know that the class liked me enough to vote me in.

Q: What were your feelings when you became king/queen?

Gettis: It’s just such an honor.

Hewitt: I was shocked when they called my name, it took a second to realize it was actually me they were calling.

Q: Have you been in royalty before?

Gettis: In freshman year I was princess.

Hewitt: I was in my junior year.

Q: What kind of preperations were made?

Gettis: I bought my dress at the N Thing in Conrad.

Hewitt: The tux was free, but we had rehearsals and such, and picking out our partners.

Q: What was your favorite thing about homecoming?

Gettis: Probably coronation because I had no idea who the king and queen were going to be.

Hewitt: Coronation day because you don’t get todress up real fancy every day.

Friday School spirit day

The Stampede 10.11.12

16 -- Features

Marching off to a military base

McNamee to Afghanistan

CMR students ready themselves for their military futures by jesse whiteman, staff writer Flipped bunks and toilet paper wrapped lockers were all over the camp, but the organized chaos soothed senior Walter Spicer.

Spicer said that although there were people who would make such disasters, the form of the camp was good for him.

“The structure helped me,” Spicer said.

Spicer attended a military basic training camp, which dozens of C.M. Russell students went to over the summer. At the end of the school year, the young men and women who have trained will be going to technology schools for training.

Spicer said that of the four branches of the military, he chose the Army.

“It’s the only one that has the best benefits for what I want,” he said.

He said that the military is a good choice for anyone—whether you want to go to college, for money, or a personal conviction.

“You can’t fix any branch on one person,” he said. “It’s more of what suits you.”

Spicer said that both of his grandfathers were in the Army and his dad is in the Air Force.

Going through basic training with Spicer, senior Justin Buus said that he went into the military for college originally.

Buus said that his parents are proud of him for being the only of his brothers to enlist.

Staying close to home was the reason that Buus chose to enlist in the army, he said.

“It was the only branch that would let me stay home,” he said.

While he was going through basic training, he said that it was about 40 percent of it was fun and the other sixty was hard work and effort.

“At first I didn’t want to come home it was so fun,” he said.

Relating to Spicer, senior Nina Bird said that she is going into the Navy to help pay for her college payments.

Enlisting into the U.S. Navy after graduating, senior Nina Bird said that she is joining for the Navy’s marine biology program.

Reserve National Guard

Air Force

Army

Graphic by Olivia Rudio “The Navy has a really good marine biology program,” Bird said.

Also with a father in the Air Force, senior Alex Miller is carrying on his tradition, although he has not gone through basic training as of yet.

“Every male on my dad’s side has been in the military,” Miller said.

Holding a large part of his family’s life, the military has taken Miller to Iceland and all over the world.

He said that he will be carrying on a long-going family tradition—being in the Air Force.

“I have Air Force blood in me,” Miller said.

He said that he thinks that the military a good option for anyone to learn skill that can take you far in your life.

“Military would be great for anyone,” Miller said. “For people who are thinking, talk to the recruiters now.”

“Do [enlist]. It’s a good idea, but think about it before you join,” Buus said.

U.S. Army recruits students, shows off American Chopper ing structured around the chopper they are presenting. The students will benefit from seeing the model itself, as they will be building it. “[It] gives them a chance to see real world applications about what they’re studying,” Smith said.

The United States Army presented an American Chopper from Orange County in Newburgh, New York to several Industrial Technology classes at CMR on October 9, 2012 in an attempt to educate students about the vehicle and to urge them to join the Army. The bike was built on the show American Chopper itself in 2005.

SFC Dennis Perry said that aside from education, the purpose of the bike’s presentation was to give the Army a chance to talk Industrial technology students prepare to watch the U.S. Army’s display of the

by tanner gliko, staff writer A signature creation of Paul and Paul Jr. from the TV show American Chopper is being used as a U.S. Army recruiting tool at CMR. Staff Sergeant Joshua Smith said that the Army is working with the CMR Industrial Technology department, and lessons are be-

American Chopper from Orange County, New York. Photo by Kasey Bubnash.

by jesse whiteman, staff writer The pain of leaving the class of 2013 was one of the strong emotions that was running through Edward McNamee’s veins on his last day at C.M. Russell High School.

“It’s not fair for the seniors,” McNamee, a social studies teacher, said.

Having to cut the ties that he has made with his students was one of the harder things for him to do during his last week at the school, he said.

Among those feelings, he has felt frustration, sadness, regret, and excitement, he said.

Leaving behind his friends, family, and sport teams, McNamee left for training and deployment for his third time to Bagram Airfield, Afghanistan on Sept. 27.

While he is there, he will be the first sergeant leading over 500 men and women who will patrol local villages and the perimeter of the base. “[It is the] biggest and most important coaching job,” he said.

He said that the job will be more dangerous than his other two times overseas, but he can say with certainty that he will return home by July.

“It’s exciting to go do this,” he said.

According to McNamee, he does not yet know how high or low the pressure will be. Physical strain and deliveries to and from home about bad news are not what he is worried about.

“It’s going to be a mental challenge to make sure everyone still has 10 fingers, 10 toes, and a pocketbook.”

McNamee said with great pride he views the people to his right and his left.

“We’re supposed to say it [the mili-

to students who might be interested in joining.

“The bike is a recruiting tool,” Perry said.

Senior Travis Price, a drafting student at CMR, said that he sought information about being on the bike because he will be joining the Air Force. However, he was not intimidated by the bike.

“I got to hear it run, at least,” Price said.

“I’ve heard louder.”

Price said he wants to work with bikes during his career in college, for which he will sign in November.

“I’m going drones in the Air Force, but I’m going to college to build bikes,” Price said.

CMR Industrial Technology teacher Mark Yaeger said that the presentation showed students what is available for them both in the Army and at CMR. “With the welding programs and machinery we have here, it fits,” Yaeger said.

Keeping up his physique, Army basic

training graduate Walter Spicer does a pushup in the halls of CMR on Oct. 9. Photo by Jesse Whiteman.

Entertainment Just In: Fall’s newest shows

Revolution review, teen poetry slam, chart

by chandler pomeroy

The Mindy Project

“The Mindy Project” is a new Comedy/ Drama on Fox. The main character Mindy Lahiri; played by Mindy Kaling; is a Doctor who has relationship issues. Ever since grade school she had been obsessed with romantic comedies. She has trouble keeping her priorities straight and misses many opportunities to forward her career.

The show definitely had a unique kind of humor that I saw as a strong point. Any time Mindy met up with another man it ended up being an awkward.

The people who worked around Mindy had their shining moments as well. The people who worked under her would compliment everything she did and did as she said in a way that it was obviously kissing up.

There was no real plot that I could identify throughout the episode. It seemed to revolve around Mindy and her issue which is to be expected from a pilot episode; but I was expecting a obstacle to be passed in order to continue the story.

All in all it is a pretty solid comedy, maybe not for my liking but I like the characters and really any medical comedy. Catch Mindy on Fox every Tuesday Night at 8:30 p.m.

The Mob Doctor

“The Mob Doctor” is a new medical drama similar to House and Grey’s Anatomy. The main character is Dr. Grace Devlin (Jordana Spiro) who is amazing at surgical procedures. She is considered one of the best at her place of work and is relied on by the Chief of Medicine.

However her life is not just simple success, her brother got mixed in with the mafia.

Grace made a deal with the Mafia in order to prevent them from harming her brother. She now moonlights by performing medical procedures in the mob. She is eventually given a task that will question what is right and wrong in order to continue paying her brother’s debt.

The dark feel of the entire show is what kept me engaged. I was honestly surprised by the choices that Grace made throughout the episode. I thought she was going to be that predictable, always making the right choice hero.

The cinematography was also done quite creatively. The transitions from scene to scene were not just a pop into another room. You felt as if you were smoothly changing setting which definitely gives a relaxed feel.

The only real complaint I have is that some of the technology in that place seems really out of place. You have these 50” screens all over the walls with touch to control and finger print analysis. What happened to a clipboard?

Another small complaint would have to be every time we see Grace in a scene, prepare to hear the words, “Sorry, I will be right back” or, “I need to take care of something.” She keeps getting interrupted in every single scene.

I really did enjoy the show a whole, it is a nice change from having the hero do only good. If you don’t mind seeing a bit of blood here and there it is definitely worth a shot. Monday night at 8 p.m. on FOX.

Revolution What would happen if everything electronic just stopped? We see that modern technology is used for everything that we do and depend on it more so than should be considered OK. It starts with Charlie’s family before the blackout and we see how technology is being taken for granted. Ben Matheson rushes home and he seems to know that something is going to happen.

Just like that everything is just shuts off, no explosion or even a warning.

Fast forward 15 years to see that people have made a small town and live just fine. However, there is a strong force to be reckoned with and Ben is in for a surprise visit.

It is hard to get attached to some characters because it is hard to tell who is important or not. I start getting attached to a character and it turns out he or she dies, is bad, or is there just for that scene.

It also seems to jump around a lot; one minute we are walking through a forest and the next we are already inside a city.

The characters also seem to have extremely good luck. When Charlie needs to find somebody in a huge city, what are the odds that the first building they pick has him working there?

Other than those minor annoyances, the acting and scenario are well done. Overall I see this series easily going through this season and the next as long as the writing stays good and the idea does not die out.

If you enjoy the Walking Dead, give this post apocalyptic show for a ride every Monday night at 8 p.m. on NBC.

666 Park Avenue “666 Park Avenue” gives the viewer a classic thriller, horror feel with every moment.

We see that there are supernatural occurrences at this apartment complex. Then it starts us with the happy couple that does not have a care in the world. They are very successful and seem to have everything work for them.

Strange things are happening all around the complex after they check in and the events start catching the attention of the protagonist Jane, played by Rachael Taylor, so she starts investigating. She stumbles across what the building was used for and finds out that the owner is not who he seems.

I definitely liked the idea of the entire episode; it felt as if I was watching a horror film. It seems all happy up until the point where the lights start flickering and figures are seen for a split second.

The show takes advantage of the viewer lowering his or her guard thinking, “This isn’t going to scare me.”

I really enjoyed the mystery of what is really going on there. Is it just some weird hallucinations, or is it something much more evil?

The acting is pretty solid to a point where it is almost cheesy.

Everybody seems too nice, and Jane apparently can hear things that not even the viewer can.

The soundtrack and camera effects were amazing. I was sitting on the edge of my seat in suspense of the next scare.

I definitely recommend following this one if you like suspense and mystery every Sunday at 8 p.m. on ABC.

Go On

Sometimes the hardest step in fixing yourself is to admit there is a problem.

Matthew Perry stars as Ryan King in this year’s new comedy “Go On.” Ryan is a radio talk show host who has recently gone through the traumatic experience of losing his wife. After a month off of work he tries to go back, but his boss forces him to go to group therapy sessions.

When he arrives he has the attitude that he doesn’t need to take it seriously because he is “forced” to be there. There are plenty of interesting characters at the meeting, including a blind man, a cat lady, and a creepy guy who likes to get really close to people. This guy really freaks me out; he reminds me of the guy who just stands at the end of a street for no reason. He treats the whole situation as if it were a joke and acts like he couldn’t care less what is thought of him.

While I really like Matthew Perry, his character definitely takes some time to get used to. While the show does seem to give conflicting emotions at times -- like whether you love or hate Ryan -- it is pretty fun to watch. Each character has a unique look on life and makes you think what really gives you true happiness. Ryan learns a new lesson at the end of each episode that can be used in the viewer’s life. Every episode gives you a warm, happy feeling inside.

Even though it is the pilot episode of the series which usually is not the best, it was surprisingly well done. The acting feels real and not forced like trying to convince the camera that the character is sad. I did not feel that it was dragging on or talking down to the viewer. The show is an overall fun experience.

If you love Matthew Perry or just want to view a good story, sit down and get ready for a hilarious group therapy session on NBC every Tuesday night 8 p.m.

Photos by Arkasha Stevenson/Los Angeles Times/MCT

The Stampede 10.11.12

18 -- Entertainment

Letting go, speaking out

Teens take the stage, share feelings at monthly Step Up 2 the Mic poetry slam by abby lynes, news editor There is a stage where anger, joy, fear, careful observation, nostalgia, rejection, resentment, laughter, and tears all meet together for one night a month through the art of poetry. Hidden right in the heart of Great Falls, this stage exists to help teens freely share their emotional perspectives with the world.

“It’s definitely going to be a great outlet [for teens],” Jeff Scolley, the poetry event coordinator, said.

From haikus to alliterations, free verse to rhyme scheme, every form of spoken word poetry was thrown down on the stage at Montana Actor’s Theater’s “Step up 2 the Mic” poetry slam on Sept. 22 . There was one session for teens, and then the adults took the stage. Poets competed for a cash prize of $25, a gift card to Hastings, and the chance to be a featured poet in the First Friday Art Walk show. The winner of the teen slam was CMR sophomore Madi Ford.

“After I perform, I feel like I accomplished something,” she said.

Scolley said he believes that other teens in Great Falls will find the same sense of achievement as Ford as well as comfort through spoken word poetry. “[It] is going to help teens let go and become more relaxed,” he said.

The next slam is on Oct. 27, with sign-ups starting at 9 p.m. and the readings at 9:30.

Those wishing to compete must be prepared to read or recite two poems. The poets with the top three scores from the first round compete against each other in the next round.

Scolley’s advice for aspiring poets: “Let go.

Don’t be afraid to say what you want to say.

Don’t be embarrassed and enjoy the freedom of expression it gives you.”

Stepping up to the stage, sophomore Madi Ford lays down some winning rhymes at the teen slam on Sept. 22. Photo by Kendra Hix.

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What is your favorite season?

Why?

What is your guilty pleasure ice cream flavor?

If you could marry one person, who would it be?

Coke or Pepsi?

Summer because its warm and there is no school

Chocolate

No one, I’d rather not marry anyone

Coke

Hanging out What is your favorite rainy with friends and day activity? watching movies

Summer, I get to go to the lake and go camping

Cookie Dough!

Channing Tatum

Pepsi!

Playing Basketball

Fall, I love rustling through the leaves

Summer Peanut butter

Coffee

Channing Tatum

My husband, Tom Spencer

Pepsi Reading a book

Pepsi Sleep

Alex

Sullivan

Emily

Spencer

Karen

Parsons

Desiree

Heckerman

Kaylee

The CHART

Nicholson

Entertainment -- 19

10.11.12 The Stampede

SummerNo school

Mint chocolate chip

Mariah Carey

Coke

Watching Tosh.0

Sports

Concussions, Memorial Field, golf state, soccer, volleyball...

CMR athletes, coaches have longstanding traditions

by peyton fulbright, sports editor It’s almost halftime and tensions are running high. The Wranglers are getting ready for their dance routine, but there is still one thing left for them to do: the pinky prayer.

“We all stand in an ‘o,’ with our right foot over [the person to the right’s] left. We connect pinkies and someone says a prayer. We squeeze pinkies and say amen, and then we kiss the bottom of our right shoe. We do it before every performance,” junior Christalie Kuglin said.

Kuglin is in her third year as a member of the Wranglers, where she says they have been doing the pinky prayer longer than anyone can remember. According to her, the pinky prayer gets the team ready to dance, but it’s not the only pre-performance tradition they have.

“We also do this thing called pump it up. The seniors stand in the middle and chant. Everyone else is around them and repeats what they say,” Kuglin said.

Like the name implies, it gets them pumped up, she said.

While competing in many sports for CMR from 1997-2000, current coach and teacher Lindsey Graham had some traditions of her own.

“It was different for every sport. For softball, there was no pump up; we’d just hang out. In volleyball, we’d hang out, which is good as a team. I think we had some different cheers, too,” Graham said. “And in basketball, we’d just hang out and listen to music.

The pep band would really get us excited.”

Another thing Graham’s volleyball teams did when she played was wear ribbons on their shoelaces with the other team’s colors on them, so they could “stomp them.”

Even though her pre-game traditions worked for her during her playing time, she said that she doesn’t make the kids that she coaches do them.

“You can’t force them to do things. You can say them, but they have to want to do it. I do make my

STUCK ON THIRD

Peyton Fulbright

Sports are everywhere, and they are part of who we are as humans.

Competition has been part of our culture forever, and always will be. It’s a desire inside of us to be better than other people, and it also serves as entertainment.

If it wasn’t entertaining, why would we watch it?

Even though the sports have changed, the idea hasn’t. The Romans would fight to the death for money and glory in the Coliseum, and now people will enter the ring or the cage and fight for money and glory. The only difference is that nobody dies.

Combat sports have been around in virtually the same form forever, but other sports come and go.

Football, baseball, and basketball are more recent sports, but the idea behind them is the same as the ancient games. No matter what the game is, there will always be a desire to win. That is why some kids freak out in gym class. Just because there is no prize at stake doesn’t mean that they

volleyball team do some team bonding. It helps because they get to know each other; it builds trust,” Graham said.

Team bonding has changed since she was playing because of technology. She said she bonded with her teammates during bus rides because they had nothing else to do besides play games with each other and talk. Now she says kids can put in earbuds or play on their phone instead.

Varsity football coach Jack Johnson says that his motivation tactics vary from team to team.

“Good athletes are easier to motivate. Pre-game pep talks work on good teams. These are bright kids,” he said.

Johnson said that this year’s group of athletes care about the game and love to play, so it’s easy to pump them up.

Senior Nicholas Downs uses music before the game, just like Graham did. He said that the team puts on music before each home game over speakers to get them pumped up, and people can make requests via Facebook. While listening to music, Downs said he always does the same thing.

“I like to have 30 minutes to myself before the game. I can mess with the ball and run,” he said. “Most of the other kids do the same thing, but some of them talk to each other to relax.”

Even though he has some superstitions, he says they’re all rooted in success.

“I always kiss my necklace before going on the field. The way I put my [uniform] on is always the same. First my socks, then my shin guards, and then the cleats. Always my left foot then my right. I started young and it went well, so I kept doing it,” he said.

According to Downs, he still gets nervous.

“There’s always nerves, but as soon as the whistle blows,

don’t still need the glory of winning.

Humans even can figure out how to make anything in life a sport. Go to any playground in the world, and there will be little kids who are competing. It can be a game of tag, kickball, or even hide-andgo-seek, people will compete to be the best naturally.

I think the reason people get emotional about sports is because of how much of a part of us they are. I flip out when my favorite fighters lose or when the Red Sox blow it. It’s weird, because I don’t have anything at stake, but I still get broken up about it. Probably because I feel an emotional connection with them because of how into it I am. I follow what these fighters are saying all day, everyday. I watch the Sox most nights of the week. I feel like I have become a member of the team. But it’s not just me; everyone does it when they are passionate about competition.

Pride has a lot to do with it, too. Why else would the Olympics be so important?

People want to claim their country as their team. They want the recognition of being great, and when their country is dominant, they are a part of that greatness.

So next time you don’t understand why someone is in a bad mood about their team losing, give them a break, because a part of them just lost.

Cross country team makes run for state by tom gruner, staff writer Instead of using summer to relax, sophomore Edin Agemenoni took the time to get better at sports.

“We practice every school day after school and in the summer we do training. The serious runners train all year round,” he said.

And this fall, the training has paid off for Agamenoni and his teammates.

As far as competition goes, both the coaches and the runners said they have confidence in one another, and they’re pleased with the season.

“The team has been doing good as far as everyone improving and everyone being competitive with each other,” Agamenoni said. “This year, there is a lot of competition to get certain spots on the team, like making varsity or beating a certain person on the team.”

Darko said that he has a positive outlook on the rest of the season after their recent success.

“Our best meet would have to be the Billings Invitational,” Darko said.

“We finished in the upper half of the competition.”

Even though the team has had success, there is always that one thing that people have to work on.

Darko said the biggest weakness is the “gap between second and third runners.”

Breathing heavy, sophomore Edin Agemenoni runs his hardest on Aug. 29. Photo by Joe Wilmoth.

10.11.12 The Stampede

Sports -- 21

Concussions take toll on athletes How do you trainers become more vigilant regarding head injuries avoid getting Coaches, Junior Marc Judice sustained a concussion durby tanner gliko, staff writer When junior Marc Judice got a concussion at ing Homecoming 2011. It was the result of a hit concussions? the Homecoming game in 2011, little did he know from an offensive lineman, which knocked him

Chris Spragg- “Personally, to avoid getting a concussion is not getting into fights or basically not to bang your head on anything.”

Jessica Stordahl- “I avoid getting concussions by running a few laps around the gym and then stretching really well to make sure all my muscles are warm and ready to stunt.”

Marc Judice- “Being smarter about what I do. I didn’t play football this year because I knew I’d probably get one if I did.”

that he would still suffer from its symptoms a year later.

“It’s really hard for me to pay attention,” Judice said.

Concussions, which have resulted from a variety of mishaps such as accidents during sports that end in a hard hit to the head have always been a problem for athletes. Increasingly, coaches are paying attention to signs that could indicate the presence of a concussion in athletes.

According to CMR athletic trainer Teayre Klosterman, the definition of a concussion is the rattling of the brain inside the skull, causing damage to the connections between the neurons in the head.

“The connections misfire, and the brain has to rework itself,” Klosterman said.

Klosterman said that some signs of a concussion include confusion, lack of balance, problems remembering events before and after the injury, ringing in the ears, dizziness, intense headaches, inability to concentrate, and irritation from light and noise.

When a concussion is detected, it is Klosterman’s job as the athletic trainer to monitor the patient’s symptoms, impact test them according to their baseline impact test that they took at the beginning of the year with no injury, and to follow physician instructions, as clearance from a doctor is necessary for an athlete’s return to play. The rule about concussions used to be three concussions means no sports, but now the rule varies according to individual circumstances.

“Sports are always going to have injuries, and concussions are just another one that we’re going to have,” Klosterman said.

Concussions can vary from case to case depending on the hit that it resulted from, but Klosterman said that if an athlete is returned too quickly after an injury and they are not fully healed, they can sustain second impact syndrome, or have a second concussion. Second impact syndrome can result in medical conditions as bad as paralysis or ventilator treatment.

“Essentially, they have to re-learn everything if they sustain second impact syndrome,” Klosterman said.

Senior football athlete Chris Spragg said that he got a concussion during football season in fall 2010, his sophomore year. The injury had no long-term medical effects on him, but he said that the first two days after the injury were the most severe, so much so that he couldn’t even attend school.

“It made me really dizzy,” Spragg said. “I couldn’t think right.”

Spragg said that his mother, the trainer, and the doctors kept a close eye on him in case of contusions. The injury, he said, kept him out of football for a while, and he had to miss the crosstown game.

“I felt really irritated because I wanted to play in the crosstown game, for one,” Spragg said. “And two, I couldn’t do a lot of things in football because of the concussion.”

unconscious. After the injury, Judice was hospitalized, and the doctor pulled him out of football.

“I couldn’t walk in a straight line,” Judice said.

“I don’t remember much of what happened after the game.”

Later that season, Judice played in the last game of the season, but his symptoms subsequently worsened. Judice said that recently they consist of things like migraines and depression, but they are improving slowly. However, there is still difficulty, and he is not allowed to play any sports.

The concussion was only one of four that he has sustained in the past, Judice said. Two were the results of snowboarding and biking accidents, and the third was the result of Judice being hit by a car. However, he said that the football-related concussion was particularly ugly.

“It was my worst concussion out of the four,” Judice said.

Varsity basketball and freshman football coach John Cislo said that there have been more concussions in the past three or four years. He said that the sports staff is being more cautious about them and diagnosing them better recently.

“What was considered getting dinged up in the past is considered a concussion now,” Cislo said.

As a coach, he said concussions cause him to be concerned about athletes’ health.

“You don’t want them to have the headaches and miss school,” Cislo said. “You don’t want to see them injured in any way.”

Despite the fear of concussions, Cislo said that having athletic trainers available at all times puts him at ease. He said that if a concussion is suspected, he can get the patient to a trainer, who will diagnose the problem and make the decision on whether or not the athlete can continue to play.

“I would be very uncomfortable coaching at a smaller school where there’s not a trainer,” Cislo said.

As far as avoiding concussions goes, Cislo said it’s important to teach athletes proper techniques for tackling, blocking, and other physical encounters. He said that athletes also are taught how to properly prepare and use equipment.

“Their helmets are designed, when they’re aired up, to protect their head,” Cislo said.

Cislo said he always makes sure the kids are completely healthy before bringing them back.

He said that there isn’t much of an effect on the game if a player is missing anyway.

“As far as the effect on the field goes, [it’s] not much,” Cislo said. “[If a] kid’s hurt, just go with another kid.”

Under no circumstances would an injured athlete be forced to play. Cislo said that when an athlete is injured, one must “make sure he’s 100 percent before you let him back on the field.”

Illustration by Emily Sherman

22 -- Sports

The Stampede 10.11.12

Memorial stadium custodian gets down and dirty by peyton fulbright, sports editor and collin marquard, staff writer Nothing screams initiation like a festive game of fecal matter piñata.

“One year there was this kid who would always clog the toilets. We would always make the new guys poke it apart to get it to go down,” John Stroop said. “We never found out who it was, but we called him football boy. It stopped, but it started a few years later. Football boy must have had a sister.”

Stroop utilizes his good sense of humor as a custodian at Great Falls High School, where he is one of the people in charge of cleaning up Memorial Field, where Great Falls High and CMR play their home football games.

According to Stroop, he was a Bison and graduated in 1979, but he came back 14 years ago because he loves the school and the kids. Stroop enjoys cleaning up Memorial Field, and he said that kids understand how difficult some students can be with cleanliness.

He said that even though he tries to instill them with a sense of respect and pride, he still wants them to have a good time, and that’s why he enjoys working with kids. He said he likes kids so much that he will do anything to have fun with them. His favorite things to do are practical jokes. Every year he puts a fake ghost in the Great Falls High bell tower. He’ll do anything for a laugh as long as there is no risk of him losing his job, he said.

Sunflower seeds are the biggest pain, he said. Stroop thinks that the vendors should include a cup with them for people to spit into, making his job much easier.

Stroop said that even though he would expect the kids to be messier, it’s always the parents who leave behind the most work. Part of this contradiction could have to do with the presence of CMR associate principals like Kerry Parsons.

“We’ve had to redirect kids before. As a staff, we try to create a culture that picks up after itself,” Parsons said. “It has a better feeling for those involved.”

He said he feels that the strength of the school’s leaders has influenced that culture.

“We’ve had quality student leaders over the years. We have a good following of students who do a good job,” he said.

Although Parsons says the majority of kids are responsible about not leaving a mess

Explaining about “football boy,” custodian John Stroop details the messy side of his job on Sept. 31. Stroop is one of several custodians responsible for the upkeep of Memorial Stadium. Photo by Peyton Fulbright.

at the football games, there is still work to be done.

“I do not like the parking lot. At the end of the day when it’s empty, I look out and am disturbed by the litter,” he said.

Even though all is not perfect, Parsons is satisfied with the student body’s respect.

“We all share the ‘pick up’ message, and the kids have good compliance.”

Football team top ranked, yet not overconfident

According to Johnson, the ability to stay healthy has contributed to their success. by peyton fulbright, sports editor “There are not many injuries this year. It seems that when you’re playing well and Although off to a promising start, football coach Jack Johnson isn’t getting ahead winning, you heal faster,” Johnson said. of himself.

One thing that could hamper success in coming seasons is the “I’m pleased so far. We’re 6-1 and I’m proud of the kids, but we number of seniors on the team, but Johnson said he’s not worried. just need to take it one game at a time. We’re playing well and the “We just need to take it “We have a lot of seniors; our offense is experienced, but I’m wheels are still going,” Johnson said. one game at a time.” not worried. Our junior class is good and solid,” he said.

The longtime football coach said that even though the team isn’t Jack Johnson Olsen said that the offense is the strongest part of the team perfect, he’s still happy with it. because they can make the plays that they want and need to.

“We’re not deep in some positions, so we’re learning new posiJust like Johnson, Olsen knows that the team needs to keep a level head so they tions,” Johnson said.

According to him, some of the thinner stances include the defensive and offensive can continue their success.

“We’re really successful [this season] and we are able to do everything we want lines. He said that they’ve been lucky because the team has kept healthy.

Senior Tanner Olsen is one of the athletes who has had to start learning new posi- to do,” Olsen said. “We’re confident, but not cocky. We know we have to work hard to make [state] a reality.” tions.

“I’m a kicker, but I’ve had to start backing up the offense,” Olsen said.

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10.11.12 The Stampede

Sports -- 23

Catching up with CMR sports

Soccer team looks forward to play offs by tina keller, staff writer For junior Joey Serido, success on the soccer field isn’t due to his speed, fancy footwork or athletic ability. Instead, he uses his brain. “[I] just get into the zone,” Serido said.

The key point for playing the game for Serido is to think. Serido doesn’t focus on outside distractions or who the other team is; he just wants to play his best.

Whatever the players are thinking, it is working. Both boys and girls junior varsity teams are almost undefeated.

Girl JV has won seven out of ten games, tying two and only losing one.Boys JV has won all but one game out of ten.

Girls varsity is third in their conference, and varsity boys are currently ranked third in state.

After a shaky start things are shaping together, according to Joel Marinacio, the new boys coach. The team has worked hard and learned a lot, he added “[They are] just moving forward,” Marinacio said.

The girls are having a good season and are on the right road to bring home a state championship, Junior Gwen Malisani, varsity girls captain said. The reason for their success this season, she added, is the team’s Defending the goal keeper’ senior Taylor Koth blocks the ball against Great Falls High School on Sept. 25. great chemistry. They are reaching goals as No.17 junior David Hemmah and No. 9 sophomore Cole Meyer help fight off players. Photo by Kasey a team and not as individuals, she said.

Bubnash.

Volleyball keeps fighting

“We have had our struggles, no doubt, but by sammy popham, staff writer No matter how her team performs, junior again having great girls makes it so much fun to come to practice and keep developing as a Katie Smith keeps a positive attitude.

“We all have to stay positive to keep on team and individually,” JV Coach Katherine fighting,” Smith, a JV volleyball player, said. Sunwall said.

She always tries to keep her team positive “It’s a mental sport – I’m very analytical.”

Smith said she enjoys volleyball and has and upbeat, and Sunwall said she sets goals at each practice and game, been playing for six years, and whenever they reach a and she is the middle hitter “Everyone keeps a posigoal it helps their outlook on the junior varsity team. tive attitude” on things.

“Getting blocks is the Katie Smith Smith appreciates her best feeling in the world,” coach’s help. she said. JV’s record as of “She just talks to us and tells us if we’re this week is 1-13.

Despite the 1-13 record, Smith and her doing good,” Smith said. “She’s always positive and encouraging.” teammates persevere.

If the team loses a game, Smith said the “[It’s] a little frustrating, but everyone athletes see it as a win because they are imkeeps a positive attitude,” Smith said.

There are definitely moments where it is proving each week.

“We have a lot of girls who love playing hard to stay positive, she added, and one of the sport.” the team’s biggest influences is their coach.

[

]

Serving the ball, sophomore Kendra Underwood participates in volleyball practice on Oct. 8.

Photo by Peyton Fulbright.

Golfers reflect on state finals by joe wilmoth, staff writer It is 9 a.m. The air is cool and the sun is out. It’s a perfect day to begin the state golf meet, and metallic thwocks can be heard all around as players drive the ball off the tee.

The state finals for golf were held on Sept. 28-29 at Meadowlark Country Club for the first day and at Eagle Falls Golf Course the second. The CMR boys placed fifth overall while the girls placed 13th.

Taylor Kuntz was the top performer for the CMR boys, placing 15th individually and joining the All-State team. The top girl from CMR, Rylie Carmichael, had a total score of 201.

“I thought of it as any other meet, so there wasn’t a lot of pressure,”junior

Dylan Halverson. “Golf is easier[than other sports],” Dylan Halverson said,” The practices are easier and I think it’s a fun sport.”

Halverson is the son of head coach Brian Halverson.

“For the coach, it’s only slightly more stressful,” Brian Halverson said.

Coach Halverson was proud of his teams at state.

“For the girls even though they placed 13th, I think they improved a lot individually,” Halverson said.

Despite coming in 5th overall, Halverson said that it was a slight disapointment for the boys not making the top three, but it Looking down the fairway, sophomore Lindsay Martinez lines up her shot during the State Golf meet was still a great performance individually. on Sept. 28. Photo by Sierra Rutledge.

Z

The Stampede 10.11.12

24 -- Zombie Apocalypse

ombies

by kendra hix, opinion editor, peyton fulbright, sports editor, jennifer verzuh, features/entertainment editor, julia segebarth, staff writer

What weapons should you choose?

Negatives

Positives Metal Bat

One hit at a time, close range weapon.

Silent, quick and durable.

Crowbar Break into buildings, bludgeon zombies.

Potential breakage, near proximity weapon.

Crossbow Quiet, effective, long range, and can remake ammo.

With the impending zombie apocalypse, we at The Stampede are here to prepare you. . .

Would you survive?

Do you have general medical knowledge?

Would you leave others to die?

Have you ever played a zombie-based video game?

Do you know what “double tap” means?

Are you willing to work in a group?

Do you always know where the exits are?

Are you willing to eat questionable items?

Are you a fast thinker?

Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes

No No No No No No No No

The more you say yes, the more likely you are to survive.

Slow reload.

Guns Get the job done.

Loud and eventually you can run out of ammo.

Axe/sword Sharp end and blunt end to hit zombies.

Close range weapon, can dull, handle can break.

Where in the building do you hide?

“Some place without a lot of windows or doors so there are no entryways.”

“On the catwallk [in the auditorium.] You’re high, and there is only one way up.”

Nic Beargeon, senior “I wouldn’t hide. It locks you in and you can’t escape. You get trapped and attacked.”

Kyle Spriggs, senior “On the roof. You have to get up a ladder, and zombies can’t climb ladders.”

Connor Gusick, senior

Artwork by Richard Wade.

Allison Heikkila, sophomor