CMR Stampede February 2020

Feb. 6, 2020

THE STAMPEDE

Vol. 55 Issue 4

an open forum for student expression

JROTc Page 09

PROm Preparation Page 16

the world of

reality tv Page 23

students celebrate

fellowship, friendship,

&FAITH Read more on page 21

Teens cope using TikToks, memes

POINT

January was a whirlwind.

One tweet summarized everyone’s thoughts by asking, “how can the first month of Jan make the whole of 2019 not seem that bad” (@JordanRowes).

Here is a quick summary of January 2020.

America feared a potential World War III after a U.S. drone strike killed the top Iranian security and intelligence commander. Australian bushfires killed 33 individuals and more than one billion animals.

China locked down their city of Wuhan - with a population of 11 million - in an effort to control the coronavirus, which has killed 17 people. Politics divided the nation even further as President Trump’s impeachment trial began.

Teens in America and around the globe began to realize this decade was not a reset button; it was only a continuation of tragedy from the past 10 years.

But this time around, we would be responsible for solving problems like these.

This is the decade where we become adults, go to college, get a job, and move away from our families FROM GRACE’S

OF VIEW

The Stampede C. M. Russell High School Great Falls, MT February 6, 2020 Vol. 55 Issue 4 www.rustlernews.com Twitter: rustlernews

to take on other roles in society. It’s certainly a lot of pressure, but, in classic Gen Z methodology, we expressed our thoughts through memes and TikToks.

Everyday memes and soundbites are used to express the frustration, confusion, and fear we all feel while “Breaking News” headlines flash across our screens. This is our method of handling news that - if thought about too much - could send us all into an existential crisis.

Some days, I feel like the Internet peaked at WWIII memes. I spent hours scrolling through videos of people pretending to do TikTok dances on a battlefield or jokingly deciding that women should stay home and clean to avoid getting drafted. Even the ones about not being able to drink a Corona Beer from the coronavirus were enough to lighten the mood about the situation.

While these may not be the most effective methods of handling these situations, it’s what gets our pressured and stressed minds to take a breath and realize we are all in this together.

2019-2020 Staff Editors

Editor-in-chief Grace Carr Photo/Design Nancy Beston Sports/News Gloria Baldevia Opinion/Entertainment Maggie Petersen Video Taylor Willmarth Audio Quinn Soltesz Online Holly Spragg Advisor Beth Britton

Staff

Kerrigan Edwards Justin Freeny Shana Fronsee Raef Hamlin Anthony Matury David Miller David Mitchell Zoey Schug Kaylebb Stahmer Amya Terry

Principal Kerry Parsons

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.

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

On Jan. 6, students in period 6 advanced health science work together to dissect pig hearts and learn about the inner workings of the human body.

Photos by Regan Bishop.

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.

Table of Contents

02 04 05 06 07 08 09 10 11 12 14 15 16 18 19 20 21 22 23 24

Table of Contents Grace’s Column ACT Scheduling AA Clubs Newspaper Distribution New AP Thespians Early Graduates JROTC Photojournalism: CMR Then and Now LGBTQ Sports Update RORT Netflix Shows Review Top 5 Podcasts Why I Wear What I Wear Prom Preparation Haikus Social Media Star Wars Review Black History Month David vs. David Photojournalism: Religion Reality TV Child Hunger

Cover photo: Students of the Central Assembly of God church come together on Nov. 20 to play worship music to lift the spirits of the room. Members include Lizzie Unterseher, Jaden Unterseher, Gracie Unterseher, Peyton Robertson and Stephanie Polzin. They will be performing at a special event called Fine Arts on March 30 at the Central Assembly of God.Photo

by Camden Robertson.

February 6, 2020 rustlernews.com

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February 6, 2020 4 rustlernews.com

Students schedule for 2020-21

Intramural Basketball

by Katie Mygland, staff writer Now that semester one has come to a close, it’s that time of year to plan class schedules for 2020-2021, and the schedule catalog is here to help.

According to counseling department leader Brenda Lowry, there are a couple new classes being added next year: New Art studio and ceramics, American Indian Studies and a new online math class for dual credit.

Some of the names of classes are being changed, Lowry added. Art is getting some name changes, and Street Law, which will now be a full-year class, will be known as

Criminal Justice 1-2. There are no classes being removed from the schedule, but Lowry said if there is a lack of interest in certain classes they will be removed.

Lowry has one piece of advice for students.

“Explore their choices, experience different things. I encourage students to take those classes for a career/college,” Lowry said. “If the students plan to go to college out of the state, then they have to take two years of a foreign language. If they wait until they are seniors it’s too late, so plan early.”

Counselors offer scheduling advice DOs

The 2020 intramural basketball tournament kicked off on Jan. 21.

Elimination games begin on Feb. 20, semifinals begin on Feb. 25, and championships take place on Feb. 27 at 8 p.m. and 8:40 p.m.

Photos by Holly Spragg.

•

• • • •

•

Choose classes to help narrow down what you would like to do later in life. Think you are interested in Welding? Take Welding. Maybe you’ll like it or maybe it will help you cross off some ideas off your list.

Challenge yourself. If you are only worried about GPA, you will miss out on opportunities for learning and growing.

Get pre-requisites out of the way early.

Also ask that teacher (or one of us) what other classes would be beneficial.

The rigor of the Honors/AP classes will benefit you when taking the standardized tests as well as on college and scholarship applications.

There is also something to be said about being with like-minded peers who are as invested as you are.

Research and plan! You want to be civil engineer? Where can I go to get that degree?

What classes will I need to take in high school to prepare me? Use the free education you receive in high school to prepare for your future. Take classes that will be benefit you in life, even if it’s not what you want to do as a not what you want to do as a career.

DON’Ts • • • •

• •

Choose classes based on what your friends want to take.

Try to take the least amount of classes possible.

Seniors take one or two or three opens (if taking a 7am) Not applying for scholarships because you don’t think you will be the most qualified or because so-and-so is also applying and they will for sure get it over you.

Not taking math your senior year if you are planning to go to college.

Not challenging yourself to take a rigorous class because you are worried about your G.P.A. Students come back from college to visit us every year and say things like “I wish I would have taken more math.”

ACT prep sessions to improve student test performance career.

by Taylor Willmarth, staff writer When Noel Osterman left her position as an English teacher for pastures new as a librarian at CMR, she promoted a program to help prepare students for the ACT. The new ACT preparation program, supported by the administration, provides students with an opportunity to get help from professionals after school hours.

Most ACT Prep programs come at a costly premium. The Princeton Review, for example, offers an inperson course for $599. However, the program that CMR has offered this year is free for all students.

“Students are always welcome to come, even if they don’t sign up,” Osterman said. “Mr. Parsons

and Mrs. Ranieri have made this a priority.”

Osterman took class time to work on ACT Prep when she was an English teacher, which inspired her to help form a committee at CMR. The English, math, and science department heads are working to provide subject-specific help in each of the content areas on the exam.

Osterman said that it is important for a substantial number of juniors to attend the events because the teachers are taking their personal time to provide the assistance.

“It’s just a way for students to be better prepared for the exam,” she said. “ACT scores are an important factor [when applying] for college and scholarships.”

To Do List: 1. Remind: text @ cmract to 81010 2. Sign Up: bit.ly/ actprepcmr 3. Show up ready to review

Students review test taking skills with science teacher Tom Cubbage at the first session on Jan. 8. Photo by Jamie Williams.

Wednesdays Feb. 12 - Science Feb. 19 - Math Feb. 26 - Writing Mar. 4 - Science

Mar. 11 - Read/ Lang Mar. 18 - Math in the STEM rooms

February 6, 2020 rustlernews.com

DECA

by Raef Hamlin, staff writer Planning, organizing, and participating in state-level competitions: one senior from CMR does it all for DECA (Distributive Education Clubs of America).

Senior Andi Newbrough joined DECA her freshman year because “my friends and I were following the upperclassmen we knew,” she said.

Newbrough said she has enjoyed all four years of DECA and is also one of the State Officers in Montana.

As a State Officer, she is responsible for planning and running the state conference, posting on social media, and making corporate contacts.

Senior Isabelle Castriz said she joined DECA because she hopes to be in the business field

BPA

by Raef Hamlin, staff writer The Business Professionals of America club gives students the opportunity to explore different fields in the business and IT departments.

“I feel like BPA events help prepare for important life skills later on and it’s fun” Senior Kenai Wilson said.

Wilson said he started coding sophomore year with Stacy Dolderer and has continued to do so through BPA. He joined the club as a junior and, in only his second year, he placed first in Java and C++ coding during regionals. When Wilson attends state this year, he hopes to place in the top ten for C++ coding.

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“I get to be involved in some really fun events that are more focused on marketing and innovation,” she said.

“I heard about DECA when I was a sophomore and started going to the meetings,” senior Lexi Burcham said.

Burcham said she joined DECA because “I am interested in business and was seeking a chance to expand my public speaking skills while in a fun environment,” she said.

Burcham is participating in an innovation plan, Travel and Tourism Marketing, and Apparel and Accessory Marketing. Her favorite memory was going to Orlando Florida for the national competition last year.

Senior Isabelle Castriz joined BPA with the hope that she will eventually work in the business field.

“It’s a great way to [prepare] for the professional world,” she said.

Castriz is part of the Administrative support team with seniors Quinn Soltesz, Andi Newbrough, and Grace Carr. She also participated in Human Resource Management, placing third, and Fundamental Spreadsheet, placing 6th.

Castriz said her goals for state BPA are “to compete our best and make the most of the experiences.”

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they had a great season. They scored well. So how it works is they have a competition that goes on for six hours and they have to find problems with these computer images, that they are given.

They are sent three different kinds, one is like a server image, one is called ubuntu, and one is windows image. So the skills these students are getting are pretty phenomenal because they can help fight cyber terrorism and cyber threats.”

send us a program that we open on the computer using something called a virtual machine so that we are not really causing any damage on our own machines. It just kind of goes through this virtual player. Then whoever sets up the image determines certain points for when students find certain vulnerabilities they get points. The setup, it’s kind of cute, this nice music plays whenever they solve problems but when they do something to make the image more insecure than it makes this awful honking sound. So they can lose points, too.”

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Stampede Speaks (podcasts) Style Reviews Videos and much more...

Q&A

Q: How did your season go this year?

Wilson joined BPA to help him prepare for life but A: “We did not make it to regionals but has stayed in BPA because of the great community.

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Q: How many people did you have on the team this year?

A: “Cyber patriots say we can have six kids per team so we have six on our team.

Sometimes we have a seventh person who comes and they have to kind of rotate in and off.”

Q: Why do you think this club is important and why did you take on the role as an advisor?

A: “I just think this is such a great opportunity, we need people out there in cybersecurity, I need people in that.

So that people don’t hack into my credit cards and my medical information. I know that this sponsored by the airforce so they are looking for people to go into cybersecurity because of it such a huge huge problem. It’s kind of like a gaming thing and so many kids are interested in gaming and just kind of problem-solving.

The kids know way more then I do, so I wish I could kind of teach them more but I can’t. We have someone from the college, Chris Maye, who teaches cybersecurity at the college so he kind of help mentor the team and that’s a great help.”

February 6, 2020 6 rustlernews.com

(Right) Justin Freeny works on a newspaper layout in the journalism room during 7th period on Dec. 12..

(Below) Brainstorming for topic ideas to put in the newspaper, David Mitchell and Anthony Matury raise ideas on Nov. 7.

Figuring out how to enhance a page for the paper, teacher Beth Britton and editor-in-chief Grace Carr discuss options on Dec. 10.

The Stampede

Making a newspaper on a monthly basis takes a lot of work if you want a quality product. It’s spending hours after school on deadlines, hoping that one kid gives a good interview, and a lot of working as a team. Despite all that, there’s a group of students that has taken newspaper or a journalism class every year of their high school career. It’s a family, which is what always brought me back.

(Above) Zoey Schug and Raef Hamlin work together to make questions for an interview on Dec. 11.

(Left) Discerning some squabbly edits, Holly Spragg and Kerrigan Edwards work towards making a bomb layout on Nov. 18.

Covering the news piece and photos by Kaylebb Stahmer

“It’s really exciting to see our finished product in print for the first time.”

Kerrigan Edwards, 10

“I love being able to share the hard work our staff has put into the issue.

Holly Spragg and I always pick up the issues at 6:30 a.m. It’s always fun to sing early morning karaoke with our coffees and three stacks of newspapers in the backseat.”

Grace Carr, 12 “It’s fun to get the team together and see our hard work printed.”

Holly Spragg, 12

Distribution (Above) Holly Spragg delivers newspapers to each and every staff mailbox at CMR on the Dec. 19 distribution day.

(Right) Staff mailboxes are packed with the newspaper on Distribution day, Dec 19.

(Above) Handing newspapers to incoming students, Nancy Beston helps distribute the paper on release day, Oct 31.

(Left) Newspaper staff takes a snack break before going out and distributng on Oct. 31.

February 6, 2020 rustlernews.com

Associate Principal takes role at North Middle School

by Shana Fronsee, staff writer Sad to be leaving C. M. Russell High School, Associate Principal Anita Ranieri starts a new building block in her life in the administration department.

“I have truly loved working at CMR for the past five and a half years and will miss both students and staff,” Ranieri said.

She began her career in education at Lewis and Clark Elementary School as a Special Education teacher for two years.

In 2000, she moved to Spokane to teach at North Central High School. She was there for 13 years, teaching Health and Fitness, Career Readiness, AVID (Advancement Via Individual Determination), NAV 101, and English resource. She said she was an instructional coach and department leader before moving into administration in 2010.

In 2014, under the leadership of former CMR Principal Dick Kloppel, she accepted the Associate Principal position.

“I was drawn to the job because of the quality of the school and the reputation of Dick Kloppel,” Ranieri said. “CMR has

always been close to my heart because I student taught here under the supervision of Julie Graham and Gary Lowry.”

She said she volunteered to transfer to North Middle School this month because she embraced the changes and challenges as an opportunity to grow both personally and professionally. She began her new adventures earlier this week on Feb. 3, and her goal is to build relationships with the staff and students, along with learning how things work at the middle school level.

“I’m excited about my new adventures at North Middle School,” she said. “I am a life-long learner and thrive off gaining knowledge from others. I think it is always fun to learn and gain new insight into something and a deeper understanding of education. Those things are fun, and to me they make life interesting and challenging.”

Jamie McGraw, a former English teacher from CMR and most recently the associate principal at NMS, will begin at CMR next week.

Student teachers explore the Rustler’s way Every year, CMR welcomes various student teachers. Throughout their experience in their year of practice teaching, they serve as the backbone of teachers. This year, two aspiring teachers are set to learn more about what it means to be a Rustler.

Alexandra Evans teaches orchestra under the supervision of orchestra teacher Steve Olson. She said

Alexandra Evans

she appreciates her time teaching students. Being in the class has taught her a lot of valuable lessons that she carries on into her career.

Another student teacher this year is Kathryn Heryla, who is teaching French with Erica Davis. An alumni of CMR, she shared how she is excited to be back and learn more.

Kathryn Heryla French

Orchestra

“I’ve enjoyed working with the kids, and I learn a lot from both them and Mr. Olson.”

“I am really excited to be back at my old high school!”

To be or not to be... a Thespian

by Justin Freeny & David Miller, staff writers

“It was something I felt succsessful at.”

- Janelle Munson

“I have my family here and I have my friends here.”

- Grace Hanson

“It’s a title that I treasure because I worked hard for it.”

- Cat Rangel

David’s Experience

Justin’s Experience

Being a Thespian to me is like being a part of a large family of other like-minded people, and being in this society has made such a large impression in my life. I will never forget the people I have met. It will always be a part of who I am. Prior to joining the Thespian society, I was a shy, introverted kid, and since joining I have flourished into an extroverted and outgoing person. I never thought that I would be able to get up in front of an audience and deliver a speech. It has provided me with the opportunity to do a lot of really amazing things such as appear on the news and in the local newspaper.

It has also allowed me to work on my leadership skills through becoming an officer. This society has presented me with my true passion -- costuming -- and the tools to explore it in higher education.

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The history of the Thespians

The International Thespian Society was founded in 1928 in Fairmont, West Virginia by Dr. Paul Opp, Earnest Bavely and Harry Leaper. By the end of 1928 national Thespians (the original name) had accrued 71 troops in 26 states. The name was changed in 1945 to the National Thespian Dramatic honor society, and by 1954, as the society was reaching its 25th anniversary, it had accrued more than 1000 troops across 48 states and at the time of the territories of Alaska, Hawaii and the countries of Japan and Canada. Then, in the 1980s, the Educational Theater Association was founded to oversee the Thespian troops as well as their various activities.

The Thespian Society is where I call home. It’s given me a stronger purpose to my community, my friends, and the theater. The people I’ve befriended from being a Thespian are going to stick with me for life. It’s the root of my passion for theater. It drives me to become not only a better actor, but a better person. Before discovering my love for drama, I found myself at a loss for what to do. My interests were rooted in the STEM field, but nothing really stuck with me or spurred my curiosity to a level that acting does. Thanks to the Thespian Society, I know that I want to pursue a path in acting. That feeling of standing in front of a sea of people and connecting with all of them on a personal level is one that can’t be topped. I’ve worked harder for the stage than I have in any subject in a school day. There’s nothing I’d rather be than a Thespian, bringing an elaborate art form to a loving community.

February 6, 2020 8 rustlernews.com

Reality TV You’re not living your best life without it

by Amya Terry, staff writer Don’t ever believe you’re above reality TV, because why? Are you too smart or something?

I guarantee you’re probably not.

There’s so much reality TV gives to its viewers. They serve looks, laughter, shade, drama, and life lessons. You may be wondering why life lessons was added to that, but we’ll get to that later.

First, I’ll educate you on what reality TV truly is. There are different categories in reality TV, including the Bravo channel shows (Real Housewives, Mob wives, Vanderpump Rules), the different type of lives (Girls Incarcerated, My 600-lb Life, Undercover Wives), We’re Not Judging but We’re Judging (90 Day Fiance, Here Comes Honey Boo Boo, Married at First Sight), This is Too Fake to Enjoy (all of The Bachelor shows, and Love Island), the If you Win You Might Become Famous (America’s Next Top Model, Project Runway, Rupaul’s Drag Race, all the singing/dancing competitions) Shady, Messy and Hilarious (Bad Girls Club, Floribama Shore, Jersey Shore), and finally the Icons, which is different for everyone.

Now that I’ve broken this up into categories, we should talk about how we get life lessons out of this. Basically reality TV teaches viewers what not to do and how to deal with messy people.

Some examples include not telling your business and minding your own business like Kandi from Real Housewives of Atlanta. If necessary, you get into their mind like Kenya from RHOA, and New York from Bewitchingly good Flavor of Love. They are geniuses at doing this. They know how to get

under peoples’ skin without making a scene and win. A quote from New York doing this is “good morning, good morning, good morning, good morning, not you, you can choke.” The girl she said this to was flabbergasted and incredibly hurt.

It was a whole mess, but it worked because that girl got eliminated next.

Now the love competitions such as Bachelor, Bachelorette, and Flavor of Love shows teach you not to rush love because... NO ONE WINS, EVER. It all just turns into stress, and no one wants that because stress can lead to high blood pressure and that’s just not cute. Honestly I would never. Also on the Bachelor they always end up cheating. One Bachelor didn’t even choose a girl to marry; he wasted everyone’s time, and I’m disgusted by this behavior.

Keeping Up With The Kardashians shows you that rich people have problems, too. Remember when Kim lost her diamond earring in the ocean at Bora Bora and her sister Kourtney who doesn’t understand had the nerve to say “Kim there are people that are dying.” Those are some real issues that no one should go through. Or that other time, Kourtney was laughing at Kim’s ugly cry face and was banished from Kim’s presence.

Bad Girls Club has taught me when you fight you look dumb, and that it always results in missing hair and hurt feelings. America’s Next Top Model taught me how to almost runway walk as good as queen Naomi Campbell herself. RuPaul’s Drag Race taught me to sashay away from stress.

Real Housewives of Beverly Hills taught me the most insulting name to call someone, is a BEAST. “Shut your mouth I’ve had enough of you,

you Beast!!!” Kim says. “Beast?!? How dare you” Eileen responded. Honestly, this whole argument was hilarious.

There was running, frozen faces, fake lips, and shock. Finally, Dance Moms taught me that when someone upsets you, drop everything you’re doing, go to Baskin Robbins, and then go to the police station to try and get that person arrested. I’ve had enough of Abby. I’m sure you’ve seen that clip of Abby rolling away around New York City, but to find out she’s gone to the police station again; this isn’t the first time she has got the police involved in her petty arguments with mothers and dance instructors. Seriously, Abby, the police have better things to do than deal with grown women arguing about why their daughter needs a solo. Grow up.

Moving on, we need to talk about our underrated royalty of reality TV. The cameramen and editors work hard to keep the laughter and drama running. These people are so shady.

I believe there is probably a shade test you need to take before getting hired to be an editor. You cannot lie on a reality TV show because they’ll just replay the clip; they’ll stop the music in the background if you sound stupid, and cut stuff out, which is a powerful tool they use to trick peoples’ minds.

It’s cruel but necessary. Now onto the cameramen. They will chase you down if you’re angry or if there’s a fight, and they will look for reactions or people being sneaky to expose them later. It’s a crazy time.

You can learn a lot from reality TV and have a lot of laughs. If you want a better life, watch reality TV. If you wanna be miserable than don’t watch it.

D and J’s Reviews

by David Miller, staff writer “The Chilling Adventures of Sabrina“ came back full force in January, and this season did not disappoint. It was an actionpacked thrilling journey and did not disappoint on clearing up the multiple questions that season two left us with. In season two we were left with a new Queen of Hell in the form of Lilith leaving the viewer with the question of, well if Satan is trapped in the body of Nic, who will the church of night worship? Well this story arch is one that is very well developed and is the main bulk of the episodes being about the idea of the church worshiping Lilith. This arch was something fascinating to see the overthrowing of a huge figure like Satan with a woman is unlike anything I’ve ever seen this season was one that tied up a bunch of loose ends. Sabrina confronts her destiny and really finds her way and what matters to her while still getting what she wants in Hell. Her journey takes her to Hell and back literally several times, but ultimately she goes back to her roots.

by Justin Freeny, staff writer Last year, Netflix put out the oddball “You” that caught more than just a following with its sympathetic psychopath Joe Goldberg. With its first-person storytelling, it had viewers on their toes until the very end with the shocking season finale.

But what was next? Joe finds another obsession and history repeats itself?

Fortunately, season two found a refreshing plot with a new obstacle: the roller coaster that is Los Angeles.

As expected from the end of the first season, Joe’s presumed dead exgirlfriend Candace makes a return and threatens Joe’s happiness. The new season delivered a new cast of welldeveloped characters and another riveting plot, centered around Joe’s new fixation, a girl named Love. This new season maintained, if not raised the levels of suspense that led to a twist that even M. Night Shyamalan wouldn’t see coming. With the third season being announced for 2021, fans will be gritting their teeth to get through the long wait.

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February 6, 2020 rustlernews.com

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From the halls to real life: The life behind CMR’s men and women in uniform

by Gloria Baldevia, news/sports editor

J ROTC

When senior Daniel Brennan started to make decisions for his future, he only cited one as his inspiration and anchor.

“JROTC means a lot to me,” he said about building character and individuality. “It’s a program that a lot of people overlooked because we really do develop leaders. We have a dynamic and multitude of characters who are able to work with each other.”

A four-year-old program, JROTC has provided several students with the platform they need to pursue their aspirations after high school.

Brannon was recently nominated to attend several high-end military academies such as West Point in New York. With the school’s rigorous and competitive application process, the program sufficiently provided Brannon with the essential skills to help him stand out in the application pool.

Although JROTC does not directly affiliate itself with other scholarship and military programs, they teach their cadets the necessary character development to become better individuals and candidates in the future. Like Brennan, sophomore Dawson Williams, an officer influenced by JROTC’s mission, is set to attend an 8-week program for his flying license.

According to senior aerospace science instructor and JROTC advisor Brian Holbien, the program aims to develop citizens of character to

On Jan. 23, JROTC officers and cadets from both GFH and CMR gathered together at GFH’s new building to celebrate the conclusion of the first semester. Throughout the ceremony, they recognized outstanding members in different categories. Photos by Gloria Baldevia.

MATHEA YOUNG, 11 Captain

JAMELA MUNSINGER, 11 Captain

Young, a third-year JROTC cadet officer, cites the organization as one of her more significant inspirations when it comes to having a family. As part of every school function, Young is in charge of organizing her team for the presentation of colors as the color guard commander. In the future, Young aspires to be a medical officer in the military.

Munsinger is the Public Affairs Officer of JROTC. She is in charge of any and all social media activities of the organization. As a mean to increase the number of participants, Munsinger fulfills her duty by constantly updating JROTC’s followers of their daily activities. For the aspiring pilot, JROTC gave her a sense of freedom that helped shape her individuality.

BRANDON MILLS, 12 Major Mills showcased his leadership skills by serving as the third highest-ranking officer. According to him, JROTC sums up to define one word: growth. Over the years, he has valued every growth that he has gained from experience, whether it be directly for himself or his platoon. In the future, he plans on becoming a marine corps officer through the South Carolina University marine program. He also hopes to become a nuclear officer.

DANIEL BRANNON, 12 Lt. Colonel After being nominated to join various military academies in the country like West Point, Lt. Col. Brannon has proved that he is more than capable of showcasing his leadership skills outside of JROTC. According to him, being able to command others well and step up for what is necessary is essential.

The aspiring military officer also wants to give back in his community by serving in the Montana Air National Guard.

serve the nation. While its primary purpose is to educate students of good manners and right conducts, the curriculum is divided into three categories: aerospace, leadership education, and physical training. Together, the three branches of learning aim to provide the cadets most of the classroom instructions, such as the effects of atmospheric pressure and the body’s physiology in altitudes.

But it’s not all positive. Holbein admitted that the number of students joining the program fluctuates each year. This year, they did not meet the required number with only 47 students in the program. However, the program is trying to increase its numbers by personal advertising and sharing the benefits of JROTC with potential cadets.

“Part of that challenge is with the CMR students; the program can only be offered one period per day because by US law,” Holbien said.

Being the only air force program in the state, a lot of people have no idea what the program is, Holbein said. Many tend to think that JROTC is a recruiting service, but anyone willing to comply with the program’s standards are welcome to join.

“If you want to develop discipline, you have to make sacrifices,” Holbein said. “Learning leadership and life skills can benefit you in many ways. The biggest success stories are from cadets who come back.”

DAWSON WILLIAMS, 10 Captain Recently, captain Dawson Williams received a prestigious 8-week program scholarship for aeronautical license in a college of his choice. This scholarship is going to help solidify his aspirations to one day join the Air Force. Williams is the group PTO. He oversees the physical training for all cadets. For the officer, He believes that no matter how small an objective is, one must perform it with the best of their ability.

ETHAN JACOBS, 11 First Lieutenant First lieutenant Jacobs serves as the activities director of JROTC. He leads his team into success by making sure that each member execute their activities with precision. He over sees the daily operations of the cadets and make sure that they also learn how to lead others.

For Jacobs, JROTC helps people improve themselves.

He believes that by joining the JROTC, he developed better work ethics. A virtue that Jacobs stated is the most important in an individual.

Now n e & h T

February 6, 2020 10 rustlernews.com

Layout and Photos by Cole Arthur

2020 marks CMR’s 54th year and 10,000th school day In an article published in the Great Falls Tribune the day the school opened in the fall of 1965, the paper proclaimed that CMR is built of 1,300,000 bricks, 750 tons of reinforced steel, 12,000 yards of concrete, and 19 miles of pipe.

Now as the school nears 10,000 school days in the 54-yearold building, we look back at some historic and not so historic

moments that have defined the last half century and highlight some changes big and small that have come in that time.

A special message from Russellog 1966

“When we stepped through these doors for the first time, we realized the formidable task of molding ourselves into a united and spirited student body. As the year passed, we established many precedents, which we hope will evolve into cherished traditions. Now, as we reflect upon our first year at Charles M. Russell High School, we realize...”

“As these doors close on the first year of CMR, we realize that the task of molding ourselves into a united and spirited student body is completed until next year. In many ways we have acheived, and in many ways we have failed; but we know that we have done our best to make this year a rewarding one.

For those of us returning, the task continues.

For those of us leaving, there will always remain the satisfaction and the memory that...”

President Ronald Reagan speaks in the CMR fieldhouse (above) and the space (now with the stage removed) today.

Historic Photo Courtesy Reagan Presidential Library.

The fieldhouse under construction (above left) and after more than 50 years of use (above).

The Commons during lunch from the 1966 Russellog and today.

Bill Williamson Hall features a backstage area in the 1967 Russellog and today.

LGBT

February 6, 2020 rustlernews.com

Page design by Nancy Beston.

by Justin Freeny, staff writer In my short time as a gay man here at CMR, my eyes have been opened to how accepting our city is, and it has truly baffled me. There are so many LGBTQ+ people in the school, and they are accepting of one another, and it’s not just limited to just the members of the community, but it’s also the other students. For the most part, I have come across good people here who are very accepting. It has mostly been teachers and administration who have failed to try and accept me and my fellow peers into the school. I believe that school’s employees, forget that we are here and when they remember, they don’t usually respond positively. There are a few good allies here at CMR, but I know of people who refuse to come out because they are afraid that adults will retaliate against them. I especially felt this way for my underclassman years. This school should be a place where everyone can feel accepted, no matter who they are, or who they love. We are on our way to that point, but too slowly. It is 2020. It is a new decade and a brand new start. It is my hope that at some point soon, there is a drastic change. We can truly make this a school a place where everyone is more accepting.

BAD*SS STRONG WORTHY VALID UNIQUE ACCEPTED LOVED GOING TO BE OK SUPPORTED AMAZING PERFECTLY YOU

YOU ARE...

“

I would say to anyone who is nervous about coming out, is looking at joining the club here on campus. It’s not sure for people who are already out, it’s for students who have a friend who’s out or maybe a family member who is out. I think that it is a really good place to start because you know that that group is very accepting. Another thing you can do is come and talk to one of us down in the counseling center.

We can help you navigate that transition into ‘who do you tell,’ ‘when do you tell,’ and kind of navigate that road. It’s a big decision, and you have to be ready for it. It’s extremely important that each person gets to make that decision for themselves, and no one else does it for them.

Jacie Schoenen

counselor

11

Coming out of the closet

by Isabel Foley, introduction to journalism Coming out is incredibly personal and people face many challenges. Some aren’t accepted or are told that it’s just a phase.

Kasi Thompson, a teacher at North Middle School, has her own experience coming out.

“My coming out experience as a whole was absolutely wonderful,” Thompson said.

She said her parents didn’t skip a beat; her friends, however, were a different story.

“I think my friends had a more difficult out to my mom in the middle of Walmart,” he said. Kiernan time just because they felt like they knew everything about said his friends were accepting, but his dad got mad and me and, when I told them, I think it hurt them to feel like I his mom didn’t seem to care. He said he first came out to was lying to them the whole time, which absolutely wasn’t friends and saved his family for the last minute. the case. Some friendships took a minute to bounce back “I feel like my mom doesn’t care. I feel like she doesn’t to normal, but they absolutely did,” Thompson said. She support it, but she’s okay with it,” Kiernan said. He said that said that there were no long-lasting negative effects of her his friends are all okay with it; the first friend he came out coming out. to was already out as trans. However, he also said that his “They all realized that I am still the same person that I dad is still unsupportive, and usually just ignores the topic. have always been and that will never waver because of the “If you think coming out is not going to be safe, like you gender of my spouse,” she said. could get kicked out, don’t [come out].

Because Thompson has been Wait until you’re safe to come out. If “You shouldn’t hide who through coming out herself, she has you know your parents are supportive you are just because you think advice for those who are struggling to and accepting just come out when you accept themselves. some people won’t accept you. are ready. Don’t let anyone force you “I would tell those struggling to out of the closet,” Kiernan said.

You need to accept the fact come out to really latch onto the people Ila Boily, a freshman, had a different that people won’t accept you, who support them unconditionally. experience. She said she came out to Come out to the people who accept you her friends first, and half of them didn’t because there will always be for who you are and if there are people this large community of people accept her. that do not love you because of this “I lost a lot of friends that day [...] it who will, and will love you minor detail about you then it is their felt like I was being rejected by a part of loss,” Thompson said. for who you are.” --Ila Boily me that had supported me. It sucked.

Coming out experiences vary from I cried a lot.” Boily said. She said that person to person. Three people look to this day she has not come out to her back on their personal stories and their biological mom, her brother or her stepdad. Boily said that advice they have for those struggling to tell others about her dad and stepmom know and accept her. their sexual preferences and gender orientation.

“You shouldn’t hide who you are just because you think Christian Kiernan, a freshman, is one of these individuals some people won’t accept you. You need to accept the fact who had to come out and the reactions he received varied that people won’t accept you, because there will always be across the board. this large community of people who will, and will love you “Coming out with my sexuality was easy, and I came for who you are,” Boily said.

Kasi Thompson and her wife Amanda pose for photos with their son, Finn, (above) and on their wedding day. (left) Photos courtesy of Kasi Thompson.

February 6, 2020 14 rustlernews.com

by Anthony Matury, staff writer

Random Opinions (on) Random Things

Do you consider Valentine’s Day a legit holiday?

How does V-Day make you feel?

Worst V-Day candy?

“Dum-Dums because you’re calling them a Dum-Dum.” Taylor Bogden, 11

“No, because I don’t celebrate it” Shenaysha Duchesne, 12

“Chocolate covered cherries.

They’re gross.”

Kimberlin Manby, 12

“No, it’s about selling stuff to make you feel better.”

Barbara Wahoski, 11

“Candy Hearts because they taste like paper to me.”

William O’Neal, 9

“Yes, because stores decorate for it, they sell candy, so it’s a holiday.”

Dawson Williams, 10 “Yes, because it’s about love, and I think love deserves a holiday.”

Christian Kasuske, 10

“I don’t really care about it.”

Tanner Mullins, 12 “I don’t take it into account.”

Adonai Gray, 11 “I think it’s fun because it’s a day you show someone you love them.”

Kaylie Carr, 9 “I think it be can cute, but it shouldn’t be the only day to show affection to your significant other.”

Tess Halverson, 12

Worst Valentine’s Day experience?

“Not getting asked at all.”

Logan Ruegsegger, 9

1 2 3 4 5

Top 5 Podcasts

“In middle school, this guy that liked me got me Valentine’s and I didn’t like him back.”

Korionna Janicke, 11

“I fell on someone at a Valentine’s Day party and spilled candy, chili, and punch.”

Sanae Richie, 10

The N’ Thing We have the dresses you want!

Gowns start at $298.

Be flirty.

Be fabulous.

Be you.

415 S. Main -- Conrad 278-5408 Saturday 9 a.m. - 4 p.m.

Monday - Friday 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Sunday by appointment only

“No girlfriend.”

Tristen Knick, 9

The Dropout

Do you love scammers? Are you fascinated by the machinations of Silicon Valley entrepreneurs?

Do you enjoy the specifics of medical technology testing? If so, THIS podcast is for you. Telling the story of Stanford-dropout-turned-CEO-turnedindicted-felon Elizabeth Holmes, this riveting story of fraud, manipulation, and corporate intrigue is impeccably crafted by ABC News.

The book “Bad Blood,” by John Carreyrou, is similarly excellent and serves as a perfect companion to the podcast.

The Dream

Do you still love scammers? Are you constantly dodging shady Facebook posts from distant cousins inviting you to “be your own boss” and “recruit friends to work for Company X”? The Dream tells the story of such Facebook posts. Detailing the pervasive hold that “Multi-level marketing companies (MLMs),” or as a like to call them--pyramid schemes--have over millions of people, this series is somehow gripping of all senses and rises to the upper echelon of what a podcast can achieve.

Top 5

To Live and Die in LA True Crime fans, finally something for you! I must confess I’ve struggled to get into true crime, but the sun-washed facade of influencers and Los Angeles drew me into the haunting story of the disappearance of European model Adea Shabani.

Urgent and well-crafted, To Live and Die in LA twists to an indelible resolution.

Karstcast Moviecast

I love movies, and so do hosts Karsten Runquist and Jeff Borislow. This weekly podcast, created by popular YouTuber Runquist, is laid back to the point that the listener feels as though they are sitting, drinking iced coffee with the two hosts in their apartment. The pair review any film they feel like, from critical indie horror like “Midsommar” to forgotten 2000’s animated films like “Osmosis Jones.” The conversations range far and wide and offer truly all perspectives on film.

Stampede Speaks

Last, but by NO MEANS least, is the Stampede’s own production. Of course this was making the list! Did you not think I would plug my own podcast? So far this school year we’ve covered South Pacific, the rich tapestry of Halloween opinions from the Stampede staff, and CMR’s resident culture critics’ favorite music and movies of the 2010s. Check it out!

by Quinn Soltesz, audio editor

listen to

Why I What I

by Zoe Schug, staff writer

Jaydan Vasquez

Ashlynn Martinez Grade 9

Grade 11

W hat genres are you interested in?

W hat genres are you interested in?

-Country; Rap; Rock/Indie

-Alternative rock

W ho are some of your favorite artists?

W ho are some of your favorite artists?

-Nirvana -Third Eye Blind -Greenday -Bryan Adams

-Toby Keith -Biggie Smalls -Greenday

W hat are some are your favorite songs/albums?

W hat are some are your favorite songs/albums?

-Courtesy of the Red, White, and Blue; Toby Keith -21 guns; Greenday -Warning; Biggie Smalls -The Fall of Hobo Johnson; Hobo Johnson

-Lithium; Nirvana -God of Wine; Third Eye Blind -Bed of roses; Bon Jovi -Till I hear from you; Jim Brossoms

W hy does this music appeal to you?

W hy does this music appeal to you?

This music is more original than the music from now-a-days. I like the concept behind alternative rock.

I can relate to a lot of the emotions these artists are putting out. It calms me down.

H ow were you introduced to this music?

My parents and grandpa.

H ow were you introduced to this music?

Do you want to/ Do you make music?

I was raised listening to this music.

No. I’m just not the kind of person who can.

STAMPEDE picks their favorites Fav Album

Quinn Soltesz

Channel ORANGE - France Ocean

Fav Artist

Fav Song

Lorde

20 Something - SZA Bermuda Triangle - Zico Wait For Me - Hadestown Fine Line Harry Styles The One Kylie Minogue Allison - Elvis Costello Scotty Doesn’t Know - Lustra It Must Have Been Love - Roxette Bossa Nose Cuco, Jean Carter Dear Yessie - Jessie Reyez Pink and Blue - Valentine Guiding Light Mumford & Sons

Gloria Baldevia

Head in the Clouds - 88Rising

Gallant

Shana Fronsee

Hadestown Broadway Cast

Kane Brown

Fine Line Harry Styles

Harry Styles

Holly Spragg Taylor Willmarth

Fever - Kylie Minogue

Kylie Minogue

Beth Britton

Synchronicity - The Police

Bruce Springsteen

Raef Hamlin

The Foundation - Zac Brown Band

Zac Brown Band

Kaylebb Stahmer

25 - Adele

Casey Abrams

Kerrigan Edwards

Kiddo Jessie Reyez

Amya Terry Nancy Beston Grace Carr David Mitchell

Lemonade - Beyonce These Semi feelings, They are everywhere - DNE Evolve - Imagine Dragons DAMN. Kendrick Lamar

Billie Eilish Beyonce Britney Spears Mumford & Sons NLE Choppa

by Quinn Soltesz, audio editor and Gloria Baldevia, sports/news editor

Dreams and Nightmares - Meek Mill

February 6, 2020 rustlernews.com

listen to

15

Carissa Hodges

Grade 10

W hat genres are you interested in?

-Indie/ Bedroom Pop

W ho are some of your favorite artists?

- Still Woozy - Crumb

W hat are some are your favorite songs/albums?

- Foolsong by Still Woozy

W here do you find a lot of music?

Tik Tok; Spotify Recommendations

Why does this music appeal to you?

It’s chill.

D o you want to/ Do you make music?

No.

February 6, 2020 16 rustlernews.com

The Dress

Advice from the PROS

Hair

The dress is often the most important aspect of a girl’s prom night and they want it to be all they imagined.

Places to visit include...

• •

Belles and Lace

Great Clips Unique Hairtique • The Palm Tree • Ulta Beauty

Fake lashes/ lash extensions are necessary, have fun with it. It is the one time to totally glam up.

320 Central Ave. Price Range: $175 and up (short) Size Range: 00 - 26

P

Grace Carr, 12 & Alexys Mouser, 12

Inge’s Fashions

Jewelry

600 Central Plaza

Price Range: $69 and up Size Range: 00 - 26

The Bride’s Shoppe

1102 Central Ave. Price Range: $100-$150 and up Size Range: 00 - 28

• • • • • •

The Bride’s Shoppe Claire’s Walmart JCPenney Blue Rose Dragonfly Dry Goods

The N Thing & Closet Consignment

Get your nails done too - five days before prom. You don’t want your hands to hurt but they still look fresh.

Lauren Rich, 12 & Kyla Enget, 12

Don’t wear perfume. It all just mixes together into one big cloud of Victoria’s Secret.

Nancy Beston, 12

Main Street in Conrad

Nails

On A A Budget?

Budget?

On

• • • • •

Ross Dress For Less

“My freshman year I hadn’t defined my style yet, so Ross was a good option.”

Nancy Beston, 12

•

Hand-Me-Downs

“I never bought a brand new dress for prom, hand-me-downs are your friend.”

Alexis Wiley, graduated expert

Legacy Magic Nails Nail Club Linda Michaels Montana Academy of Salons The Runway Salon Inc.

Wear short heels or flats, or something comfy. I got boots for this year.

Kyla Enget, 12

I got my dress from The Bride’s Shoppe, clearance rack for the win.

Regan Bishop, 12

My Freshman Year

Amazon

“I read a lot of reviews, ordered it early, and got it tailored if needed.”

Kyla Enget, 12

“I should have just worn flats.”

Shoes • • • • • •

JC Penney Famous Footwear Target The Bride’s Shoppe TJ Maxx Ross Dress for Less

R

Regan Bishop, 12

O

“[I wish I knew] it gets really hot in there; deodorant is your friend.”

Nancy Beston, 12

“I shouldn’t have worn heels; no one even saw them.”

Alexis Wiley, Graduated Expert

M

February 6, 2020 rustlernews.com

P R E P

What’s in your pocket?

Gum/mints Chapstick Money Keys Ticket Phone Mini deodorant Tissues Make-up

What to do after prom?

Grab breakfast at Denny’s Shower and sleep Have a sleepover Make pancakes Try to escape the airport parking lot Scroll through everyone’s Instagram posts

Flowers Hermans

Price Range: $25 and up *earlier the better

Electric City

Price Range: $10 (boutonniere) $25 (corsage) *not available for sale until after Valentine’s Day

My Viola

Price Range: $15 and up (boutonniere) $30 and up (corsage)

Sally’s Flowers

Price Range: $15 and up (boutonniere) $35 and up (corsage)

Bloom and Bean

Price Range: $30 and up (corsage) *free boutonniere to match with corsage **last day to order is the Thursday before prom

Tuxedos Kaufman’s

Price Range: $95 *full-price rental pants, shirt, vest, **suits available

- $140 (rental) includes coat, ties, and shoes for purchase

Bride’s Shoppe

Price Range varies.

Available for rent or purchase

Do you you take take

Do reservations? reservations?

McKenzie River Pizza Fire Artisan Pizza Montana Club Jakers Bar & Grill Boston’s Restaurant and Sports Bar Borrie’s 3D International Restaurant & Lounge Country Club Cattleman’s Cut Beef and Bone Dante’s Creative Cuisine Kobe Seafood and Steak Black Bear Diner El Comedor Mexican Restaurant

YES YES YES YES YES YES YES YES YES YES YES NO YES YES

prag

y Holly S

Pages b

d Quinn

Carr an g, Grace

Soltesz

17

February 6, 2020 18 rustlernews.com

Rustlers express themselves through creative

haikus

by David Miller, staff writer; Shana Fronsee, staff writer

Love

Music

NATURE

Lily Robertson, 12 “Alec Benjamin The messages are vibing Narrated for you.”

Christian Kiernan, 9 “The harsh wind rustles Through the trees and the leaves fall The fall storms have come.”

Shanaysha Duchesne, 12 “Music glides through time Stumbling, crashing, evolving Like Darwin’s first finch.”

Alexandra Davidson, 10 “Sunshine is daily Wind blows along all the trees Restarts all again.”

Sam Schiff, 10 “Who really needs love Love is so overrated I don’t need a man.”

Julianne Jensen, 10 “Sparkling like the stars Your eyes shine through the nights so dark Beautiful and bright.”

Poetry is thoughts that breathe, and words that burn.

- Thomas Gray

Social Media The impact on our youth Anthony Matury

Social media does have pros and cons, sure. Overall, I think it’s great. If you use it correctly. If all you’re doing is looking at weird stuff, maybe you’ll deem it as bad. It has a weird power over people to either bring them together, like popularizing certain memes, or tear them apart, like the debate of milk going in before or after cereal.

Social media gives people a power to express themselves in any way they want, whether it be nature, sports, fashion, animals, or my personal favorite, memes. Will it be worth the traction you’ll get? Maybe.

As a person who posts memes on Instagram, I think it has a positive impact on my friends. It gives them something to talk about, stuff to laugh at, things to enjoy.

On the other hand, social media is a minefield. You have to be careful as to what you do, say, whatever. One wrong move, and you’re a wanted man by a lot of people.

by David Mitchell, staff writer Throughout the past decade, nothing has grown quite as much as the Internet and social media. From the average high school student complaining about his or her teachers to the President of the United States ranting about impeachment, everyone seems to have something to say online.

As social media’s popularity grew, so did questions about its effects on the people who use it. Whether it’s the hostility found in comment sections of different apps or the scam artists who stalk their users, social media often attracts a lot of negative media attention.

Don’t get me wrong, I love a well constructed meme like everyone else, but for me, that’s where a majority of social media’s benefits end along with getting to reconnect with people you haven’t seen in a long time.

I’m even willing to say that if you use social media for those uses only, you can have a good time.

Problems arise when you start comparing yourself to the people you see on whatever social media platform you choose to use. I think this is the single biggest problem that accompanies social media use. For so many people, their lives are consumed by it. This isn’t helped when they constantly see people whose lives are “better” than theirs.

I believe that this can easily play into depression among teens and young adults. According to the National

Center for Biotechnology Information, individuals who used social media had significantly increased odds of depression when compared with those who used it infrequently.

Another issue not just in social media, but online in general, is cyberbullying. Obviously, some people have no problem with getting called names online. For others, it hits them hard and can also contribute to the correlation between social media and depression.

The largest problem with social media, in my opinion, is the hostility that takes place on Twitter between opposing political parties. The absolute unfiltered hatred that some people project on others is unmatched when it comes to politics. The nation is as divided as it has ever been, and I’m certain that has a lot to do with social media. People feel empowered to say whatever they want behind a curtain of anonymity, in turn making others angry and creating animosity between people who haven’t ever met each other before.

Despite the lighthearted and fun uses of social media, the reality -- for many users -- is quite often the opposite.

All in all, communication and “sharing” apps, designed to bring people together and create an informed society, have really done more harm than good for a lot of people using it.

Spoiler Review

I saw “Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker” twice in theaters. The first time, I loved it, because I am the kind of viewer who believes if the character work in a story is good, it will outshine the rest of the plot. That is what Kylo Ren/Ben Solo did for me. His struggle with the light side is so palpable in this film. Every second he was on screen, I was engaged in the scene and the character interactions.

Also, I felt so much more connected to Rey in this film. The greatest flaw of her character in “Star Wars: The Force Awakens” was her uncanny talent for virtually everything she tried. She was able to speak to droids she’d had no contact with, fly a spaceship despite having not left Jakku since she was a young child, and hold her own in a lightsaber duel against a trained force-user. Not only was this a continuity error, but it was also a character error because the root of likeable characters is struggle. I had serious trouble connecting with her character because of this. However, “The Rise of Skywalker” added the depth that Rey so desperately needed. I rooted for her and connected with her struggle with the dark side.

However, the revelation that Palapatine was Rey’s grandfather was where I fell off the bandwagon. It is painfully obvious that this plot twist was not the original plan for her character.

In fact, I almost don’t believe there was an original plan for her character. Palapatine’s

death in Episode VI was a direct fulfillment of the prophecy that Anakin was the chosen one to bring balance to the force. This film sacrifices the integrity of previous lore to compensate for Snoke’s death.

I do concede that this film experienced substantial difficulties in its production. The tragic death of Carrie Fisher, for example, put the creators in a moral predicament. I, for one, respect their decision to honor her memory and not do hefty amounts of computer generating.

They did the best they could to complete her character arc using old footage from deleted clips and editing her into scenes. Also, the way they handled her death, dying when Ben Solo was mortally wounded, was a beautiful scene and probably the most impactful moment of the movie.

I love “Star Wars,” and I’m not sure if there’s anything that will make me stop loving “Star Wars.” However, I think it’s time that the creators take a step back and work on other projects, ones where they are not attempting to pander to millions of diverse fans (i.e. the romantic but out-of-place Rey/Ben Solo kiss).

“The Mandalorian,” for example, is a fantastic spin-off “Star Wars” series, and it’s good because it’s not afraid of being original. I think it’s time we tell new “Star Wars” stories; ones that don’t rely on the success of their predecessors.

Star Wars

by Maggie Petersen, entertainment/opinion editor A long time ago in a bedroom that was very, very small, I discovered “STAR WARS.” Since “A New Hope” rose to define a generation 43 years ago, “Star Wars” has been running since 1977. The final installment of their latest trilogy, “Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker,” premiered December 20, 2019 and has split the community with debates over its quality.

Avoiding spoilers like the plague, I walked into the theatre with no opinions or assumptions. I wanted the experience to be as authentic as possible. What did I think? Well, I can’t decide. “Star Wars” has been and always will be great, but, when it comes to this movie, I don’t know if it’s any good.

“Star Wars: The Force Awakens” was directed by J. J. Abrams, while the sequel, “The Last Jedi,” was directed by Rian Johnson. “The Rise of Skywalker” turned into J. J. Abrams’s attempt to blend their opposing visions.

Character arcs that started in the first film and were put on hold for the second were hurriedly wrapped up in this new installment.

The only character with a satisfying storyline to follow is Kylo Ren. The two directors seemed to

agree on the direction of his arc. However, the rest of the film has a messy quality and lacked the much-needed feeling of continuity which would have saved this sequel trilogy.

However, watching it, I wasn’t thinking about different directors or continuity errors.

I was thinking about the film, and I enjoyed it. As always, “Star Wars” proves to be a visual masterpiece. Fight scenes and galactic landscapes, despite heavy computer animation, are completely breathtaking.

The truth is, this sequel trilogy was good, but it was not planned out ahead of time, and it shows. The creators of “Star Wars” have the opportunity to create films that are guaranteed to be viewed by millions. The greatest betrayal of these new films is that differing artistic visions got in the way of a well-developed continuation of this franchise.

On the other hand, I doubt there will ever be an addition to the “Star Wars” universe that is not criticized. The fanbase is diverse to the point that it is impossible to appease them all.

The truth is, “Star Wars” is so great, it will never be good.

No Spoilers Review

February 6, 2020 rustlernews.com

19

BHM ME February 6, 2020 20 rustlernews.com

BLACK HISTORY MONTH

WHY THIS IS IMPORTANT TO

by Amya Terry , staff writer

My whole life I have lived in places where the majority race was white. Being so young and not understanding why I was different confused me.

My parents taught me to be proud to be a black girl and to appreciate my hair, my skin, and my culture. It helped me understand the importance of Black History Month. It is important to recognize the progression of African Americans to know and celebrate our history, and understand our future. There are parts of black history that some want to forget like the unfair treatment of blacks in America, but we must acknowledge, and talk about it. We need to recognize the lasting impact it has on African Americans today so we can continue to improve and truly live in the freedom and equality America so proudly represents.

Leaders like Martain Luther King, Jr. and Malcolm X led the fight for equality and mutual respect. They both knew they would not see the results of thier efforts, but continued the movement putting thier lives on the line. They received death threats often and could have given up, but knew the fight was much bigger than the both of them. The noise made by various movements like the Civil Rights Movement, and Sit In Campaigns inspired many other minority groups to fight for thier rights as well, such as Native Americans, Women, and the LGBTQ community. With all that was sacrificed and fought for me to have the freedom and privilegesI have today, I am inspired to be my best and fight for what is right.

Some inspiring African Americans who have demonstrated black excellence are writers, Langston Hughes and Maya Angelou. Our first black president, Barack Obama. History making athletes Muhammad Ali, Jackie Robinson, and Kobe Bryant. Oprah Winfrey, need I say more?

There are so many others. We too often celebrate success stories, but do not take the time to respect understand how hard it is to achieve such high levels of success and the uniquie challenges that come with being a Black person in America. Not enough black history is covered in our history classes.I love Black HIstory Month becuse it gives an opprotunity for everyone to understand and respect African American culture, history and the progression and achievements which are otherwise, unoticed.

BLACK GIRL

MAGIC

Representing black in different shades, backgrounds, and cultures, we have Miss Teen USA, Miss America, and Miss USA showing the world that America is truly the world’s melting pot. Growing up as a girl is difficult, and there are all these expectations of what beauty is.

There is an unspoken standard of beauty in America, and that is greatly influenced by European traits.

Little girls grow up with blonde hair, blueeyed Barbie Dolls, tall thin models in the best clothes, and the unbelievably filtered and photoshopped women becoming social media influencers. This leaves girls to question, is this what beauty is supposed to be? Black girls looking at this standard of beauty have a hard time seeing themselves in it. Will the world broaden the standards of beauty?

These pageant beauties breaking history indicates times are changing, and it is exciting to think of the little girls who can look at these winners and see themselves represented on such an amazing platform in American history.

TIMELINE OF IMPORTANT EVENTS IN BLACK HISTORY

WHY IS IT SIGNIFICANT?Americans

February is a month designated to celebrate black history. While many see this as the month of love with Valentine’s Day being so representative of February, it is important to remember the history, the black history, that has greatly influenced America.

With all the recent progression it is still shocking to hear so many question why black history is recognized for an entire month. The answer to that is simple if you open up your mind, educate yourself on what black history is, and how it has contributed to making America one of the most admired countries in the world.

Black History Month is an American celebration to recognize the accomplishments and growth of African Americans throughout time. It is a time to celebrate the blood, sweat, and tears of our ancestors to create a country based on equality, liberty, and freedom for all. It recognizes the struggle and sadness of the past and present, and the contributions made by African Americans.

Black History Month gives black people pride, motivation, and the desire to continue the fight for future generations. Let’s be honest. Looking back at the hardshipsof African

DESIGN BY NANCY BESTON

throughout history is often not the proudest moments of America.

However, it is the acknowledgment of those struggles and the determination to be better that will truly make America great.

Black History Month is not acknowledged enough in America. For African Americans to have such a great impact on America and the American culture, why is it that Black History Month rarely gets the attention it deserves by the masses?

Have You Noticed?

When America was first formed, no one could predict the great influence it would have all over the world. What makes America so amazing is the diversity and the union of many different ethnicities represented in, and influencing American culture. Let’s take a moment to reflect something fun and trend setting, black style.

The various styles black women do to their hair get a lot of attention making it controversial. American society has tried to make black hairstyles seem unsophisticated.

In the 60-’70s, there was a new movement, The Natural Hair Movement. It was at this time when black men and women felt proud and empowered by thier natural roots and wore thier afros, cornrows and braids with pride challenging and expanding beauty standards. To this day many musicians, models, and influencers have worn these hairstyles making it trendy to rock your

natural coils reigniting the Natural Hair Movement.

Black people are trend setters. Fashion for instance is greatly influenced by black culture.

These styles are recognized by the media and influenced by music created in black culture.

Hip hop for example, in the 80’s Run DMC made adidas cool, in the 90’s hip hop made baggy clothes and statement (customized) clothing cool, a few years ago skinny jeans were in for males and females, and thankfully today the clean look is rocked by many popular hip hop artists like Drake, and Kendrick Lamar making it cool to wear clothes that are the proper fit!

While the great impact black culture has on fashion and trends may not be recognized as such, it certainly cannot be denied.

January 2008: Barack September 1957: Central August 1955: Obama becomes President High School Integrated Emmett Till murdered December 1955 April 4, 1968: 1920: Montgomery Bus Boycott MLK Assassinated Harlem Renaissance

June 1905: Niagra Movement

February 6, 2020 rustlernews.com

3 David Goals for the 2020 decade?

Favorite thing from the decade?

I really liked the TV shows from the previous decade.

Something you’ll miss from the 2010’s?

I want to graduate college.

Case

Being a little kid.

Case Watching my self interests change over the decade.

Case I want to get my first acting job.

Miller

The Office being on Netflix

Miller

Miller Start a family.

The Memes.

Mitchell

Not having responsibilities.

Mitchell

How about your least favorite thing?

My hair.

Mitchell

Opinion on the end of the Skywalker Saga?

Favorite 2020 decade

I really don’t like how Luke died.

The Suite Life of Zach and Cody

Case The Malasian flight dissapearance. It wasn’t given the amount of care it should’ve recieved.

Case

Case I’m curious to see if they’re going to start another saga.

The Good Place.

Miller

Miller Star Wars, The Clone Wars.

Miller

Ray Allen’s game tying shot in the 2013

Uneccessary, but somewhat entertaining.

Mitchell

Mitchell

Mitchell

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21

February 6, 2020 22 rustlernews.com

Ian White

sophomore

“

The tutoring center is very useful to students in Great Falls, and I hope to see more attend.

Central Assembly of God features computer labs, pool tables, ping pong, and the CY Cafe, where they offer dinner items and drinks for purchase.

” Pastor Josh Jensen gives a sermon to students of Central Assembly of God on Nov. 6.

What’s on Wednesday?

FACES of

Central Assembly

Photos by Camden Robertson

K

ids seeking fellowship and a place to study can find both at Central Assembly of God. There is a tutoring center for any school needs or if students need help. The people there love supporting local teens. Youth Pastor Josh Jensen is one of the adults who can help students find answers to any homework or project problems. In addition to receiving assistance with academics, teens also play games in the youth room, where they can play pool, foosball, ping pong, and card games. The Youth Center is open Monday through Wednesday from 3:30-5:30 p.m. Central Assembly also has a service every Wednesday at 6:30 p.m. The church is located at 2001 Central Ave.

Micah Ballance, 10

Thirteen-year-old Britain Robertson uses the tutoring center at Central Assembly of God on Dec.18.

A Look at the

Youth Leaders

Malachy Horning

Senior Gracie Unterseher plays guitar for Central Assembly’s worship team at 6:30 p.m. on Nov. 6.

Nate Preston, 10

Gracie Unterseher, 12

“

The Central Youth’s Tutoring Center exists to help students excel in school by providing free tutoring in any subject.

Stephanie Polzin

Pastor Josh Jensen

”

CMR early graduates prepare for the

Next Step

February 6, 2020 rustlernews.com Paige Bernardi

Kevin Lombardo

by Taylor Willmarth, video editor Eager to serve his country, Kevin Lobmardo decided to graduate from high school early to pursue his dream of joining the Air Force.

“I want to join the military and become an aerospace medical technician,” Lombardo said.

Support from his family on all levels has been key to Lombardo’s success, and he admits that low grades were no longer acceptable to his parents.

“I [have had] support from my stepmom,” he said.

“I have definitely been pushed harder than usual.”

He said graduating early has helped him appear more professional and caring. Lombardo noted that his classmates often ask about the extra work he has had to do to make the expedited graduation a reality.

“I had to take a summer English class, and I am taking eight classes right now,” he said.

by Taylor Willmarth, video editor Paige Bernardi is eager to graduate this year to get a headstart on her postsecondary education. She plans to attend Montana State University in the Fall, and eventually become a graphic designer in her professional life. Bernardi has been an avid art student since middle school, and she took AP Art this year. She says one benefit of early graduation is the improved view colleges have had of her.

“I feel like colleges appreciate how you seem eager to attend their institution,” she said.

Bernardi said that because she was never a traditional junior, she had to catch up on information that she missed on her own time. However, because she chose to take as many classes as possible early on, she was able accomplish this feat taking only a few online classes.

David King

by Kerrigan Edwards, staff writer For having no prior plans of graduating early, junior David King has been well supported in his choice. With his biggest support being his father and his counselor, Jacie Schoenen, his transition into being an early graduate has been easy.

“My dad is the one who gave me the idea. I was just going to do one semester next year and be done. But, he said why not just be done so he’s been my biggest support so far,” King said.

King plans on graduating this summer rather than at the normal time that a senior would. His mind set on joining the Navy, King wants to become an instructional electrician. To get his complete amount of credits needed, enrolling himself in a senior English class and financial tech have become mandatory.

King will also need to take two additional summer courses in order to meet the requirement.

23

Others

Aria Bruffett, Jazmynn Bartlett, and Jacob Decker are also graduating a year early.

Seniors Paige Bernardi and Kevin Lombardo are among the students graduating an entire year early. Photo by Taylor Willmarth.

May 29 CMR--2020 Graduation Ceremony @MT Expo Park.

Good luck at state!!

March 10-11 in Helena Arianna Anton Gloria Baldevia Regan Bishop Jess Byrne Logan Corn Charlie Chabot Ellie Faulkner Onika Gray

Lily Groves Jayme Ingalls Kendra Moore Gail Parambi Aubry Smith Sidalee Sneed Taylee Vansickle

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February 6, 2020 24 rustlernews.com

FIGHTING CHILD HUNGER Great Falls Community Food Bank helps battle hunger among children Baby food is the only item not kept past the expiration date.

Baked and other soon-to-be expired goods are given away for free.

Foods contained in a typical “backpack” for students include juice, oatmeal, soup, granola bar, fruit snack, cereal, milk, and a single serving of macaroni & cheese.

by Grace Carr, editor-in-chief Just under 37,000 children in Montana are struggling with hunger as of 2017, according to the non-profit hunger relief organization, Feeding America. 3,170 of these food insecure individuals live in Cascade County.

Food insecurity refers to the USDA’s (Department of Agriculture’s) measure of lack of access to enough food for an active, healthy life for all household members and limited or uncertain availability of nutritionally sufficient foods.

Child hunger and food insecurity is a growing issue taking place in our own neighborhoods. Many agencies around the community do their best to provide for children and their families including the children’s receiving home, school pantry’s, First English Lutheran Church, various church groups, Boys and Girls Club, and missions.

However, these agencies do not have all the food supplies necessary. The Great Falls Community Food Bank is a place for these agencies to buy food for a fraction of the regular price.

“In the war on hunger, we provide the weapons,” Shaun Tatarka, executive director of the food bank, said.

The Great Falls food bank serves 65 to 70 agencies in the community. It’s a place where organizations will get anywhere from 30-90 percent of their food.

“We get as much food to the agencies for as little as possible,” Tatarka said.

The food bank gets its supplies through donations, collections from grocery stores, and buying goods in bulk. For example, the Salvation Army will join the food bank and buy in large quantities together to save money. This food is then distributed to the agencies at a lower price. An organization will stretch their dollar 20 to 30 times by shopping at the food bank instead of name-brand stores such as Wal-Mart.

“We add a shared maintenance fee,” Tatarka said.

“Just enough to keep the lights on and ensure we are here in 20 years.”

The Great Falls Community Food Bank also recognizes the growing issue of child hunger in the area. Tatarka said that 11 of the city’s 15 elementary

1 in 6

children in Montana are struggling with hunger

schools are categorized as Title I, meaning 50 percent of students qualify for free and reduced lunch. To provide students with food outside of school hours, the food bank created a system called the Backpacks4Kids Program.

Backpacks4Kids began in 2012 when teachers and counselors noticed many kids would act out on Fridays because they hated weekends as they were not guaranteed food. To provide food insecure children with a meal on the weekends, the food bank gives out about 740 packs of sustenance each week.

“For a sixth grader, it’s not a lot, but it gets them through the weekend,” Tatarka said.

The clear bags are filled with about three pounds of food. They tend to be more carb heavy, but are high in proteins, and they are increasing the quality.

Teachers and counselors at each elementary school request a certain number of packs from the food bank each week based on who they believe is in need.

“The teachers and counselors are trained to spot these kids,” he said. “If you want a bag, you get a bag.”

Tatarka explains he doubts many people know how bad the issue of hunger is in Montana, but the organization tries to get the message out there.

He encourages community members to give their donations to the local food bank because 100 percent of the proceeds go back in to the Great Falls area.

The Great Falls Community Food Bank closes at 4 p.m. on Monday-Friday. However, high school students or anyone available is encouraged to volunteer by filling backpacks or donating food.

Tatarka also asks for high schoolers to help with the annual Postal Food Drive taking place on May 9.

During this event, Great Falls community members are encouraged to leave non-perishable food items outside their door and letter carriers and volunteers pick up the donations. Individuals in groups of two -- a runner and a driver -- are asked to participate to assist letter carriers in the collection process.

Every can of chili is a meal for a struggling child and his or her family.

For more statistics on child hunger ratings across America by county, visit map.feedingamerica.org.

Annual food budget shortfall in Montana:

$5,054,000

Chili is one of the quickest non-perishable food items to leave the food bank shelves.

Tomato soup is one of the most common items donated to the food bank.

The food bank’s freezer and storage area can hold more food than most local agencies.

17.3% child food insecurity rate in Cascade County