CMR Stampede Jan. 2015

The Stampede

In and out of the pool Sports managers add another component to the game -- Page 17 c.m. russell high school great falls, mont. jan. 29, 2015 vol. 49, issue 6

An open forum for student expression

www.rustlernews.com

The Stampede

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.

2014-2015 STAFF

CONTENTS 1 - Cover photo of freshman Tyler Spence by Peyton Fulbright 2 - Table of Contents NEWS 3- Peyton’s column, speech and debate 4- New drug counselor, license plate design 5- FFA 6-GFHS Iniwa OPINION 7- Editorial, Laura’s column 8- Teenage stereotypes, early outs, Stampede website FEATURES 9- Leadership High School 12- Rustler Buddies CENTER 10-11- Outdoor winter sports FEAURES CONT. 13- Military 14- Long commutes 15- Early grads ENTERTAINMENT 16- Guilty pleasures SPORTS 17-Managers 18- Crossfit 19- Rustler Athlete, Stats BACKPAGE 20- Super musicians

editor-in-chief peyton fulbright

online editor tony lynes

visual content editor tom gruner

news/opinion editor laura marsilio

features/ entertainment editor olivia rudio

sports editor

lindsay martinez

advertising manager jaylynn mitchell

staff

drew brennan jesse whiteman elea roberts katelyn smith macquaid brennan logan cowdery april hummel nate johnson shannon o’neil sarina calaman amanda cornwall carli dieruf tamara miller clara mcclain jara wilkinson iris kaiser

adviser

beth britton

principal

dick kloppel

TOP: Coach Edward MaNamee leads the CMR swim team to a flawless victory over Havre on Jan 23. LEFT: Jesse Whiteman, a senior, competes in the backstroke. RIGHT: Junior Patrick Hodges competes in the butterfly. Photos by Peyton Fulbright.

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.

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NEWS

3

Next Stop: State

Speech and Debate goes to state this week, then National Qualifiers “Talking to the Wall” sophomore Kelsay Jensen prepares her humerous interpretation piece in which she plays a dinosaur attending middle school. “She’s really relatable,” Jensen said of the charecter, “even though she’s a dinosaur.” Photo by Lillian Zimmerman.

by olivia rudio, features/entertainment editor

Editor-in-Chief

peytonfulbright

Despite the relaxed atmosphere of speech coach Scott Clapp’s classroom after school on a Wednesday, sophomore Jessica Banks maintains the composition of a professional, from her dress to speech.

She walks over to Clapp for her practice extemporaneous topic, and when he tells her they’re going to try “foreign” she makes a face. This year she’s only practiced “domestic,” but as it turns out she has no need to fear. She’s been doing this since she was eight.

As a member of 4H, Banks has been public speaking longer than many members on the team. This is probably why she competes in both extemporaneous and original oratory events that are usually reserved for upperclassmen.

“I do really well writing my own speeches,” Banks said, adding that her coach encouraged her to participate in two of the hardest speech events after her first year of being in the club.

A topic generator presents three topics for Banks to choose from, all concerning foreign issues. She chooses the topic: “Should U.S. ease sanctions on Russia?”

She crosses the room to “consult the exempt decks,” a giant research database that categorizes topics from space to NATO—information about anything that’s been occurring in the news since September is all crammed in a green plastic container.

Although Banks has a large threshold

of information, Clapp stresses the importance of having prior knowledge of national and foreign news.

“You have to know world events,” Clapp said. “Her job when she’s not practicing [is to] read the news.”

After gathering all the research she needs, Banks leaves the room.

“She’s going to talk to the wall,” Clapp said, explaining the term which means the speaker takes 20 minutes to prep their speech before they present it.

“My events are pretty hard,” Clapp said, adding that on top of having a wide general knowledge of news you have to be able to think on your toes.

This is something Banks seems to have perfected as she reenters the room after what seems only 10 minutes.

“She’s very sharp,” Clapp said.

And hopefully ready for state, which is set in Missoula this weekend.

“I love competition,” Banks said. “I like people to think of me as someone who is going to be hard to beat.”

Someone who definitely will be considered hard to beat this weekend during State is senior Logan Kropp, who went to nationals last year for a serious interpretation piece. But instead of dwelling on the past in his last year of high school speech, he has his sights set on the future.

“It’s not really over because I’m going to do speech in college,” said Kropp, who

In today’s world, it takes effort to be ignorant.

More than ever before, access to information is available to the majority of Americans. 24 hours a day, you have access to amost all the information that anyone has ever known, and it is constantly being updated. You can keep track of current events with apps that will notify you as the news is breaking. If you need to learn how to jump a car battery, you can look it up and within minutes be driving again. And if you are arguing over obscure baseball stats, the right answer is only seconds away.

This is all a relatively new concept. Within the last

is looking at Concordia and PLU for next fall.

“I’m excited for whatever is going to happen,” Kropp said. “I think there are good things in store for the future.”

The speech team is included in Kropp’s hope for the future for the rest of this season and seasons to come after he graduates.

“Our team is small, but it’s growing,” Kropp said.

“I’ve also been working with younger interpreters,” Kropp said, adding that they show a lot of potential.

As president and team captain, Kropp said he usually is expected to give motivational speeches to pep everyone up, but he often struggles to find the right words.

“I do memorized events for a reason,” Kropp said. “I can’t improvise!”

So instead he relies on his personal season catch phrase: “Do the things!”

Although the words may be simple, the sentiment resonates for sophomore Kelsey Jensen, who greatly appreciates the leadership of seniors Kropp and Callie Workman.

“They’ve watched my practices and give me suggestions,” Jensen said. “They’re always positive and encouraging.”

That encouragement has helped Jensen this season with her interpretation and platform pieces. However, between the two she couldn’t decide which one she prefers.

five years, smartphones have taken over our culture. If you wanted to discover these ideas in the early 2000’s, you had to have access to a desktop computer. For hundreds of years before that, you had to find a book and hope it was current.

One would assume that our ease of access to information makes for an overall more intelligent society. While some could make the argument that this hasn’t happened, I believe it largely has.

During the Civil War, if you lived in a rural area with no newspapers, you would have no knowledge of what was going on at the battlefield. Today, no matter

“You can learn a lot in expository and become immersed in interpretation. In interpretation you get the opportunity to do anything. This year I’m a dinosaur,” Jensen said. “You get to expand and become something more than yourself.”

Beyond her events, Jensen has enjoyed the meets of the 2014-2015 season.

“My favorite meet was Bozeman because it was at the beginning of the season,” Jensen said. But in general she likes AA meets the best.

“I get a more honest judgment on my abilities,” Jensen said, pointing out that one never knows who the judge will be.

“You could get anybody from someone’s grandma to a principal.”

In addition to a mixed bag of judges, Jensen said it’s important to be prepared to do an event in any setting under any circumstance.

For instance she did her humorous interpretation this year in a woodshop.

“It was really insane,” Jensen said.

“You really just have to be flexible and be ready for every and anything.”

This is the same line of thinking Kropp is using to prepare himself for the National Qualifying Tournament coming up after state. After going to nationals last year, he is trying keep himself grounded by preparing for the worst, but he is working hard on final changes to perfect his pieces.

“I have hope these new changes will benefit my pieces,” Kropp said.

where you live, you can learn about any aspect of any war going on, anywhere in the world. The level at which you are educated on the matter is up to the amount of attention you’re willing to pay to the world around you.

The biggest argument against the intelligence of our society is that we have access to information, but don’t use it to its full ability, and that simply knowing a situation but not the details is worse than not knowing at all. This argument is flawed because any information is better than no information.

As a member of this technologically privileged, I encourage you to use your resources to their full ability.

4 news

1.29.15 The Stampede

Getting help in Great Falls

Drug and alcohol counselor Linda Blankenship comes to ailing students’ rescue by shannon o’neil, staff writer Great Falls Public Schools has recently recruited a new type of counselor, one for students who may need a little more help than most. The typical high school student usually stresses out about studying for the next big test, or asking out their crush of five years to the prom. But unfortunately, there are some students who push all of their school-related troubles aside so that they can focus on where they will be getting their next fix.

According to Great Falls Public Schools officials, the number of drug-related cases of students younger than 19 who are attending high school in Great Falls is increasing, and a call for help has been made.

Secondary Assistant Superintendent Tom Moore took the initiative through the community to come up with funding for two additional counselors who are trained in the field of drug and alcohol therapy, as well as a possible background in mental health therapy.

While the issue of drug and alcohol-related struggles have existed for years, this year students brought it up to the officials.

“The students really wanted to find out how to help,” Moore said. “[They] said [drugs and alcohol] was the number one concern when it comes to graduating high school.” Out of everyone in the school, it was the students who shined the light on the issue and kick started this new request for a drug and alcohol counselor.

GFPS brought in Linda Blankenship, a drug and alcohol counselor of 22 years, to help the troubled students. She travels between the three high schools and two middle schools throughout the week. This is the first time she has only worked with children, and she plans on giving them the help they need.

“She was recommended to us and the faculty responded well,” Moore said. “[We] interviewed three to four people, [and it was] a

unanimous decision.”

Blankenship arrived with open arms, hoping to be able to aid everyone who needed it.

“My goal is to help them [and] to give them some coping skills,” Blankenship said. The students who she helps sometimes don’t have that same goal, however. She said that some of the kids want to seek help, while others are told to go to her against their will. All in all, she BPA coach Jessica Goosen helps sophomore Nick Stogsdill sign in for knows that all of them struggle, and she always his events on Jan. 19. Photo by Laura Marsilio. intends to make those struggles a little easier to handle.

While the students who are needing Blankenship’s help and the students who recommended that there should be a counselor in the district know about her, some of the Rebecca Allison - Information Technology Concepts (8th) students at C.M. Russell didn’t know that there is a new drug and alcohol counselor.

Matt Grooms - Financial Math and Analysis (1st) “I didn’t know that we were getting one at

- Legal Office Procedures (8th) first,” said junior Courtney Shovlin in reference - Fundamental Accounting (9th) to the new counselor. “I think if [Blankenship] is getting help to the right people, it will be Dawson Grunzwieg - Computer Programming Concepts (1st) beneficiary.”

- Information Technology Concepts This is a big step for GFPS. Having (1st) someone who can help students with their

JAVA Programming (4th) school-related problems is fantastic as it is, but having someone who can help them with their Emily Neumann - Administrative Support Concepts (3rd) personal problems can benefit them even more.

According to Moore, schools all over Montana, Nick Stogsdill - Entrepreneurship (5th) like Billings Senior High School, have drug and alcohol counselors, and GFPS getting one is Justin Sowa - Interview Skills (1st)

nice.

- Human Resource Management (3rd) One day, Moore hopes to be able to put a drug/alcohol counselor and a mental health - Information Technology Concepts (4th) counselor in each of the high schools in the - Management, Marketing, and Human

district, with two others who can split time at Resources (6th) the two middle schools. In a few years, this goal can be achieved with enough funding and support. GFPS is continuing to increase its “My favorite part is getting the names called at greatness, and will for years to come. awards, even if it isn’t mine.” - Rebecca Allison, 11

Rustlers earn awards at annual BPA conference

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news 5

1.29.15 The Stampede

AG-STRAVAGANZA

FFA members find joy while preparing for upcoming 2015 competitions

also become other ‘competition’ by coming by jara wilkinson, staff writer Without any prior knowledge of up more often, Storrusten explained.

Agreeing with her classmate, freshman being in FFA this year, freshman Cassidy Storrusten quickly got the hang of it. It has Emily Birch said the biggest competition is become one of the most important parts of fighting for an officer position. In fact, that her day, and she can blame her mom for is her biggest goal this year.

“Even if I don’t get a spot on leadership, that.

“The most important thing about FFA we’re still a family,” Birch said.

She is already is that you’re learning, preparing for the biggest but I have to have fun “I guess it’s unexpected, event of the year. It with it,” Storrusten said. and unplanned, but that’s occurs in March, and Storrusten joined it’s the state’s time to FFA, without any what makes it fun.” compete. They’re going knowledge of it. She against students all quickly got the feel of over Montana. The state 4-H, so she gave this a competitions include shot as well. Her mom signed her up, and much like 4-H she fell smaller games, like AG-ronomy, AG-sales, jams, and meat identification. in love with it immediately.

Other events include the banquets.

“It’s kind of like a second family,” she In a banquet, they pick their favorite said.

During this year, she has built a competition and practice. They occur often connection with the team as a whole, and and most students become involved.

For sophomore Hailee Walker, FFA is a bonded close with individuals.

“I’m getting a lot out of it. I think others positive experience.

“I guess it’s unexpected and unplanned, should join,” Storrusten said.

She’s benefiting on college applications but that’s what makes it fun,” Walker said.

She joined to get a better grasp on because when applying to a college to study to become a veterinarian, previous being a veterinarian. That’s her dream job. work with animals can play a valuable Veterinarians deal with many animals and role. She’s making new friends, which is this was just the fit for her.

“Even though I didn’t expect to be in offering new learning experiences and here, it’s become the most favorite part of competitions.

FFA is almost a constant competition. my day,” Storrusten said.

The students go head to head for leadership positions. Everybody wants a spot on the officer board. But the students have to want it more than they love it. Banquets

Hailee Walker

Top photo: Chloe Williams, Katie Koterba, Sam Morris, Matt Ammons, Hailey Darlinton, Katrina Roberts, Carter Storrusten, Tyler Barnett, Caitlyn Virts go through officer role call.

Right: Hailey Darlington, Cassidy Storrusten, and Jodi Koterba go over Chaper goals.

Photos by Austin Hader.

FFA Adviser Jodi Koterba

Metge may offer Environmental Science class Metge said he needs at least 20 students, but only seven students by clara mcclain, staff writer Freshman science teacher Murray Metge knows exactly are needed for the summer class.

Students will design, implement, and write up a project what class he wants to see offered here at CMR: Environmental about something that has an impact on the community and is a Science. benefit to society. In this aspect, the final part “That is my background. A lot of the of the class would be a lot like the STEAM work I did before I became a teacher was in “I love it. Every time I sit research project. environmental science,” Metge said. Although “They get to apply the sciences, all the he enjoys teaching Foundations of Science, down and look at it I get so Metge said he is excited by the prospect of excited about it. Everything’s science they’ve learned, into a problemsolving, research-based project. That’s the sharing the subject for which he has a passion. led up to this.” exciting thing. That’s why I love it,” Metge He earned a bachelor’s degree in wildlife and said. range management and a master’s degree in He hopes that as soon as the class gets environmental education.

“I love it. Every time I sit down and look at [the curriculum] established, interest will increase and more students will join.

I get so excited about it. Everything’s led up to this,” Metge His excitement just at the possibility of an Environmental Science class is apparent. explained.

Students learn about chemistry, biology, physics, and geology Metge is not yet certain if the class will be offered during the summer or the 2015-2016 school year. Last year was the first during their time at CMR, and Metge said “environmental science attempt at starting this new course, he said, but not enough applies [those classes] to our society. Environmental Science to people signed up. In order to offer it during the school year, me is the culmination, the expression of all the sciences.”

Murray Metge

New Classes for 2015-2016 1. AP Psych- regular is still available.

Grades 11 and 12 only. Introduces students to the world of human behavior.

2. AP Econ- Grades 11 and 12 only Prerequisite needed. Introduces the core principles of economics and how it is used in the world. Replaces regular economics.

3. Pre Calculus 151- Grade 12 only, dual credit is available.

4. Computer Programming- All grades welcome. Learn how to use computer language in a job setting.

6 news

1.29.15 The Stampede

Great Falls High School Iniwa makes changes, causes controversy

I

by peyton fulbright, editor-in-chief niwa is an Inuit word for Bison, or sacred animal. 85 years ago, Great Falls High School student government members changed their school newspaper’s name from the “High-Lite” to the “Iniwa” to pay respect to central Montana’s Native American heritage and because the bison is an animal of survival.

Ironically, survival is no longer the case for the GFHS Iniwa.

Five months into the school year, there have been no printed issues of the Iniwa.

Eight months ago, former adviser Linda Ballew retired after 39 years of working at GFHS. Replacing Ballew were English teachers Niki Amo and Susan Crocker.

Amo currently advises the Roundup, the GFHS yearbook, and Crocker advises the Iniwa.

According to Principal Jane Gregoire, the reason there has yet to be a newspaper produced is due to the lack of class enrollment. Gregoire said that only four students signed up to be a part of the newspaper staff. That, combined with what she said is an overall lack of interest in reading the Iniwa, made her and Crocker decide to shift directions.

“Last year and the year before, when I was at GFH, I noticed many unclaimed issues of the Iniwa. I know some students enjoyed it and most of the teachers enjoyed it, but many just passed it by and preferred to look at Facebook and online media outlets instead of the actual printed pieces of paper,” Gregoire said.

To replace the newspaper, there will be a magazine published in February, and there are plans for three more to be released by the end of the year. The new magazine will be released under the name “The Herd Life.”

Gregoire attributes the low enrollment to the fact that the class no longer has a career-technical credit certification attached to it.

“The staff had been declining over a couple of years. The class does not have CT or CTE credits involved with it anymore.

Those who choose to stick with it and stay in the classes have to be extremely hard workers and love to write. We’ve seen declining numbers for a number of years, and that is something that Mrs. Ballew struggled with before she left,” Gregoire said. “In fact, her classes had gotten small enough that we looked at having her teach a couple of English classes, which wasn’t very attractive to her. Which is understandable, because she was teaching newspaper and yearbook, which are big things. Even if you have small classes, it’s still a big demand on a teacher.”

She said that there have been smaller enrollment numbers over the last few years, but they are attempting to address this by regaining the CTE or fine arts credit association, but that depends on the

teacher’s background. compromise on issues, but it never really “For example, [Stampede adviser] Ms. worked,” Ballew said. “I wasn’t about to Britton worked for the Tribune, so she do it again. That was a hard decision to had those hours on the job that count as come to. I probably would have taught experience, whereas our new adviser Mrs. journalism until the building fell down Crocker does not have that experience,” around me.”

Gregoire said.

Ballew believes that the administration While Gregoire believes that the didn’t hire someone qualified enough for possibility of teaching an English class is the position, but Gregoire believes that the reason Ballew decided to retire early, Crocker has risen to the challenge of filling Ballew claims to have a different reason.

Ballew’s shoes.

“I had to ask myself whether I wanted to “We checked with Chris Olzewski, and do this another year. This kind of stressful we had to hire a candidate with either interaction with this a journalism degree administration, and the or an English degree, “Although we may have response to that was not and we did not have not always agreed on good for me, it’s not good any journalism degree for them, and it’s not good candidates, and some things, the principals for my kids. It has turned of our English teachers that I worked for had out that it was much better had expressed interest tremendous trust for what in the position,” for me and probably for the administration, but not Gregoire said.

I could do.” for the kids,” Ballew said.

While Gregoire She said that Gregoire maintains her approval “never asked why” she of the newspaper was leaving, causing her adviser, some students feelings of affrontation when she learned don’t feel the same way. that Gregoire believed her reason for GFHS junior Katelin Johnson, who retirement involved her having to teach an transferred to GFHS from CMR during her English class. sophomore year, disapproves of Crocker’s “Brad Barringer, the associate principal, writing style because of the lack of AP-sat down with me and asked why I was Associated Press-- style. The AP Stylebook doing this. I said I would be very good is a journalistic guide for “grammar, teaching English, I’m a very good English punctuation, and principles and practices teacher,” Ballew said. “I taught English of reporting.” for many years, but I did say that teaching “She doesn’t follow AP style writing. She newspaper, yearbook, the intro class and grades our stories as if they were essays. two preps of English was an awful lot and It’s hard to want to take her suggestions that was a little crazy to take on. That’s seriously as they do not completely follow what I said. I never said ‘I’m not doing this.

AP journalistic style,” she said. “However, I quit’.” she is the adviser. As a journalist I still have Her reason for retiring came down to to make those corrections, even if I am trust, Ballew said. doing so reluctantly.”

Ballew said that when friends of hers at Johnson also feels that the Intoduction GFHS retired who understood the struggles to Journalism students are shown of being a journalism adviser, she had a favoritism, and she doesn’t appreciate how difficult time because she felt like she didn’t the website, www.iniwa.com, is almost have anyone to talk to who understood her exclusively filled with writing by the intro struggles with administration. class.

“With my sense of independence, that Despite multiple attempts, Crocker was one of the things that made it very could not be reached for an interview. difficult for administrators to see me as GFHS senior Cilly Geranios was slated someone making those decisions. They to be the Iniwa’s editor-in-chief this school don’t like to see teachers making those year. decisions, but I was used to making those “We don’t have a lot of people, and decisions. It felt like there was not a lot of Ballew had told me I was the one she trust, and one of the things I think is very would recommend become editor, which important is that although we may have not was a really high honor and compliment, always agreed on things, the principals that but with five people it’s not even a staff.

I worked for had tremendous trust for what With that many people it would just be I could do,” she said. an editorial board,” Geranios said. “We Ballew said that while other principals tried to focus on online at the start of the were “not always comfortable” with year, but we couldn’t populate online what the Iniwa did, they still trusted her, adequately. It’s hard with five people to put something she never felt in her final years out a paper.” at GFHS. While Geranios understands why she “I really felt that sense of trust never isn’t editor-in-chief, Ballew doesn’t show established itself in those two years. the same understanding.

We tried to build relationships and “For Cilly not to be the editor-in-

Linda Ballew

chief of the paper was so wrong. She is a remarkable thinker, a remarkable student.

She would have made a great editor. I feel that was hard on her and devastating on me that someone didn’t honor that commitment,” Ballew said. She’s handled it well, but even so I feel very terrible that I left in that situation. If I would have stayed, I would have stayed for the kids.”

The lack of a GFHS newspaper has affected more than just the school. The community has felt the impact as well.

Recently, 1948 graduate Dolores Rice wrote a letter to the editor to the Great Falls Tribune posing the question “Why no Iniwa?” In the following week, Rice was met with a response from Gregoire. “[She said] that only four kids signed up for the class. They invited our class of 1948 to come visit them any time, [and]it sounds like they are doing a magazine on the computer of some sort. She said that there aren’t a lot of kids who want to do this anymore. I was lucky enough to get the last one. The last one of last year. She said the kids weren’t taking them and were throwing them away, so they decided it wasn’t for them, I guess,” she said. “ I think it’s a shame because it has been a tradition, and I think that something could have been done.”

Rice went on to discuss the importance of having physical newspapers.

“I don’t have a computer, but even if I had one I need to hold a piece of paper in my hand. I hope to heck that journalism keeps going some way or the other. I hope they keep printing newspapers. I think kids should have freedom of expression of some sort. I’m just one of those people who loves to keep traditions going. I have always thought it’s something we need to have, and I still do, but obviously they don’t,” Rice said.

Tribune editor Richard Ecke was involved in his high school newspaper at Helena High School, where he dealt with conflict between students and administration. Ecke also has ties to the Iniwa.

“I have two kids who went to GFHS, and it would be nice to see the Iniwa publish again. It won a lot of awards over the years, and some people who worked on that paper have been successful in professional life, so it would be good to see it start again,” he said.

While the community, the students, and the GFHS staff have different opinions on the matter, for Ballew it comes down to sadness.

“To not be trusted after 33 years is very devastating. My life just took a different turn. It’s like I said to my kids 100 times last year: life is change; growth is optional. For me, change was easier than it was for them.

I feel remarkably sad that there wasn’t that type of growth for them.”

OPINION Finals almost finished, second quarter beginning

7

The end of the quarter, our time to start over, start fresh again

Ninety days have passed since the start of the school anything for us. year. First semester finals are just about over, and High school isn’t all about academics, thank God. It’s perhaps you are basking in the glow of high grades and also about forming relationships, spending time getting finished projects. to know people, being social, and putting yourself out Or maybe not. of the box by doing things you normally From If your goals for the 2014-2015 school year wouldn’t do. have not turned to reality, it may be time to

As we look around at different games point of view hit the “reset” button before diving in to days and school events, it’s not hard to tell that so #91-180. many of the students here are full of school spirit.

Whether your academic performance first semester The Stampede staff spends a lot of time out shooting was stellar or, shall we say, less than pictures and interviewing students, parents, and guests. perfect, it’s time for a fresh start. We spend our time observing, so take it from us.

First semester troubles can Being involved, having fun and remaining openbe left behind and forgotten, minded will make the second half of your school year kind of like old food and a success. things that have been in our We have 2 quarters of school left and this might leave lockers since the first week of a sick feeling in some of our stomachs. It means the school. We’ve all had occasional struggle of keeping a parent friendly GPA once again, mess-ups, but that doesn’t ruin and the others focus on the fact that they are closer to

OUR

summer break.

The finals we have taken are only getting us ready for the life that we will lead after high school. Just that thought in your head may be exciting because that means you are steps closer to being finished and ready to begin a life on our own as adults.

Don’t forget, seniors, this is the time to step up and make this last bit of your high school experience worthwhile.

You are almost done and these last months will help determine your future. As a high school we should all strive to do the best we can and succeed in what we do.

MINI EDitorials

High school publications play important role, provide student voice

News/Opinion Editor

lauramarsilio

Rivalry. It can be a healthy thing, but in its absense it is missed. Imagine the Bison deciding one year not having a football team or a basketball team. That is how we at the Stampede feel about the loss of our main rivals. For years the Great Falls High School newspaper, the Iniwa, has been one of the top AA high publications in the state, winning both statewide and national awards.

We enjoyed having the competition with Great Falls High. It made deadlines more eventful because it made us see the need to work harder. We still work extremely hard to put out the best issues we can, but the sense of competition is gone. There is no longer an in-town rival that we can look at every month and see what we have to do to make our paper better.

We hope that eventually the Iniwa will return to publication and be our award-winning rival again, and that eventually the Bison community will have a student voice that hits the hard news and the fun features, representing their community in a great way.

CMR school clubs need time to meet

When it comes to clubs, CMR has plenty. But how many times do these clubs really meet?

Think about how many club schedules we’ve had this year. When are these clubs meeting?

Sure, clubs can meet before, after, or outside of school, but that is nowhere near as convenient as the multitude of club days we’ve had over the school year in years past. It’s hard to think that these clubs can be getting as much done as we’ve become used to over the years we’ve been at CMR. We’re not saying that our clubs aren’t getting anything done. They still do a lot for our school, but it’s hard to think that members are anywhere near as involved as they used to be when we had club days consistently and often.

CMR has multiple great clubs, and it’s sad to see these clubs so under-represented. A few of our clubs have stayed strong, but those few clubs fail to show how involved we truly can be as a school.

Our clubs need help. We need more club days and we need more involvement. With the success of our few great clubs, it’s quite easy to see how great all of our clubs could be if they had more opportunity to be great.

Early days, late nights. The average life of a teen. I’ve spent a lot of days in school realizing how little sleep I actually get. The average sleep that an adolescent is supposed to get is nine hours per night. I’m lucky if I get four hours. Even though teenage lack of sleep is often blamed on Internet addiction, I often just lay on my bed thinking until eventually around 2 a.m. I fall asleep.

The next day is always torture. Waking up for school is probably one of the hardest things for any teenager to do. Sleep is essential, and when you’re stuck lying on your bed unable to catch a proper snooze, the body does not react well. As dawn breaks I groan while my phone blasts “Flavor of the Weak.” This song has become a reminder of the start of a long, tiring day.

Most people tell me that I should just take naps, but for some reason I am physically incapable of taking them, and it stresses me out. I know what you’re probably thinking: stressing because you can’t sleep, really? But it is true. My stress levels have increased substantially since my lack of sleep has kicked in. Normally I am a happy, cheery, and completely morning person. Since school started I tend to dislike most things in the world.

I tend to drift off in all my classes, not just a select few. My hearing goes in and

out as I catch only part of the discussion. School is important to me, and not being able to pay attention really affects my learning. I want to learn, but if my brain refuses to cooperate it tends to be a losing battle.

Once I get home it’s even worse. I sit on the couch in a daze trying to decide when my brain will be capable of doing homework. If I try to do my homework as I get home I blank and cannot remember anything that I have learned in school since about freshman year. No matter how much I want to get my homework done, Netflix decides to call my name. It’s nice because watching it does not require any sort of thinking. Netflix was there when sleep was not.

So why is it that we start school so early? I’ve read many articles that ask this exact question. In other states some schools don’t start until 8:50 a.m. while others don’t start until 9:30 a.m.. Although they go later in the day I think it would be more ideal to go to school later and have it go longer.

All I really want to do is repair my sleeping schedule that has been destroyed by the early morning school hours. I guess in the end it’s not that big of a deal as I think it may be. After 12 years of school, I think I’ve adapted pretty well. But next time school hour regulators think of the sleep-deprived children.

opinion 8

The Stampede 1.29.15

What it is like to be a teenager in Early outs not always our best use of time the 21st Century, how we handle it by april hummel, staff writer So what does it mean to be a teenager? It means that you do stupid stuff, you think the whole world hates you, or that there is no reason for you to be stressed out because you are only in high school. At least that is what the stereotypes say about us. But I do not see those as being true a majority of the time.

A teenager’s life it is full of ups and downs which means our moods are up and down at a lot of times.

Lately I have been told by the adults in my life I have nothing to worry about other than good grades and getting into college. This however, is stressful. I have to make sure that the grades that I am earning are high enough and the classes I am taking are good enough so I will have an advantage once I get to college. But some teachers assign you hours of homework and then you may have an after-school activity which most colleges like to see on a high school transcript, and search for a job at the same time. I am stressed, worried I won’t be able to get into college. I have been told it is a silly fear, but it is still there.

Since high school in the days my parents went to school it has changed. In a way it is more competitive,

and getting into college is harder, there is no guarantee that you will be able to get into college, or that if you don’t have the classes needed to get in. And some stereotypes still hold true. There are teens who fit the being mad at the world stereotype. But there is one stereotype that is probably the weirdest to me: That teenagers try to get out of everything; that most of the time teens try to avoid doing activities that require more responsibility. I can say that stereotype is not true. Teens have to be responsible; we have to manage homework, extracurricular activities, and in many cases a job, and any important social activities such as games and other school functions.

As teens we have a lot of responsibility, but at the same time we are learning to take life in strides, and handle the challenges that come our way when we can. There are always the areas where we have stress and we do not always know how to fully handle it, but we do not try to be annoyed with the world, just like most adults. We want to succeed and sometimes the pressures in life that try to get us down but we are resilient enough we won’t let it.

by lindsay martinez, sports editor Tomorrow afternoon, our school will celebrate yet another beloved early out. It will be 12:15, finals will be over, and all the students will be sprinting out the doors to head for lunch.

I can’t help but wonder though, what’s the point of even coming to school when we have classes only about half an hour in length? It usually seems like we check grades the last day of the semester and maybe get some papers handed back to us. Not a whole bunch else really goes down. There just isn’t enough time, and there isn’t any reason to start assignments for the second semester.

Don’t get me wrong, I love going out to lunch, playing in the dodgeball tournament, or going home early to relax on a Friday afternoon. But it would be a lot simpler if I didn’t have to go in to school at all in the first place. One of the few things we students love more than early outs are three-day weekends.

In addition to seemingly pointless class periods, school activities oftentimes start at the normal time despite the early release. Sports teams, music groups, and other clubs might not meet until 3:30 on the early out Friday. This means a couple hours of down time before practice when most would prefer to get on with their Friday nights.

The point is we should make sure every day counts and has meaning. We should not have these half days just for the sake of getting to the golden number of 180. It feels like a better use of time would be to not have school at all, or have a full day where we could actually accomplish something.

Smarten up on your smart phone with rustlernews.com

by tony lynes, online editor

Above: Stampede web site editor and senior Tony Lynes works on content for rustlernews.com. In addition to rustlernews.com, Lynes also keeps up the Stampede’s twitter account. Photo by: April Hummel

After a semester with chaotic events like whooping cough and a state soccer championship, it seems fitting to say that there is a lot going on around you. With only a monthly print edition, the newspaper can’t keep up with everything that’s happing on a daily basis. To keep up with current events that are not reported in the Stampede, rustlernews.com is home to many pieces written by the staff writers of the print edition.

It takes only five minutes out of your day otherwise spent refreshing your already up-to-thesecond Facebook feed to check on school news and other news in the community. Many people might think that with newspapers or online news outlets that it’s all boring information that doesn’t concern them, but there is more to it than those preconceived notions. At www.rustlernews.com, opinions from high school students, and features of these kids that you might not know about, are all there. There are also entertainment pieces, sporting briefs and other thing that can’t be summed up in a 140-character tweet.

That’s not all, either. On the site you can find slide-shows and videos from school events. If you

were unable to read the printed edition, it is posted on the website. As well, to keep up with breaking news, you can follow the Stampede on Twitter at @RustlerNews, and you’ll find sporting dates and scores at @SportsStampede.

Another addition to the site is the “Tour of CMR” section. Under this tab are videos of different departments at the school. New students or those interested in new electives or A.P. classes are encouraged to look through and find out what interests them.

Starting this month, students will be able to send in pictures of themselves at the school to be featured on a new slide-show. These can be taken at sporting events, concerts, or anywhere else that a school event is being held. To submit a photo, send it to stampede@gfps.k12.mt.us, or tag @RustlerNews on Twitter.

With such a short time in high school, it’s important for you to make the most of it. This includes being involved both academically and outside of school. Following up with the community of students and staff around you will have a benefit in the long run.

FEATURES

9

Leadership High School: stars of the future

Features Editor

oliviarudio

by elea roberts, staff writer Every child has at least one thing in common on the playground. They want to be the leader and everyone else the followers. As we grow older, however, being the leader isn’t all it’s cracked up to be. We fall behind, we are stuck in the rut of being a never ending follower.

Only when we feel passionate or wise about a subject do we often choose to be a leader. But is this a bad thing?

After all, should we be leading something or someone we don’t always understand?

“The best leader is sometimes a follower,” senior Stuart Gray said.

Gray is a student who says “hi” to everybody in the hallway, seems to never have a bad day and is his own type of leader by taking an interest and following the everyday lives of his peers. He is the type of person nobody could hate, and many people admire.

This is why Gray was chosen last year to be a part of Leadership High School, a program aimed to help junior students hone their leadership abilities and learn effective ways to use them within the community.

“I’ve met a lot of kids who come from all walks of life who were all working to become better [leaders],” Gray said. “Each year the Leadership High School visits the Children’s Museum and learns about service and service opportunities and is asked to come up with their own service project and a way to give back to the community.

Our project was to give back to the [children]. On our own time we had to complete this project. We separated into different groups such as advertising, fundraising and things like [that]. I learned communication is key to completing a project.”

Junior Maren Olson similarly found that the program helps with things outside of just leadership.

“It’s not as much about learning to be a leader, but learning about your community,” Olson said. “[I have learned] how much goes into Great Falls. I thought it was just a small town, not much happened. I realized there’s a lot of

group effort.”

Senior Lindsy Pyette, who participated last year with Gray, also appreciated the insight.

“It gave us a good view of what was all in Great Falls,” Pyette said.

Leadership High School has nine events that take place one Wednesday per month. The opening reception, retreat and graduation are the more simplistic events of the program where they introduce, get to know each other and say goodbye. Eating at the Rescue Mission, visiting Malmstrom, seeing the bomb dogs, and the pay-it-forward events are what the participants remember the most. lfrey mA “We were in a really cold church and o T by Because tos we did a get to know you [event] and we Pho of what they did different activities to break down have learned many of the barriers,” Gray said of the retreat. the students have also highly He said there was one particular recommended the program. day when they talked about current Gray gave the program a kudos, social issues as having the highest impact on him. saying it was “really great”.

“It was just really memorable. [The advisor] had us “I would say do it because it is a great picture the person we love most, a white van pulls up opportunity even though you do miss a lot of and then they’re gone.” school,” Pyette said.

For Pyette it was the pay-it-forward event where Olson, who applied for the program after they were split into groups, given $50 and told to spend discussing it with senior Karlee Simonson, echoed it in ways to help the community that was the most her statement. enjoyable. Olson said she especially appreciated the “Go for it, I feel like with anything in high school, knowledge she gained during her day with the nonprofit any club, I would just go for it because you don’t want organizations. “[Learning] about how to help rather than just saying to go forward having any regrets. Just YOLO everything in life.” ‘that’s sad,’” Olson said.

The students also realized many of the potential Some of the non-profit organizations that Leadership effects that the program may have on their future. Each High School visits: of these three acknowledged that some part of them United Way applied for Leadership High School because it would My Neighbor in Need look could good on a college application, but each of The Animal Shelter them also had their respective reasons outside of the The Montana Children’s Museum academic world for doing it.

Great Falls Rescue Mission “I just kind of YOLO-ed it,” Olson admitted.

Since then, however, Olson has found multiple For more information contact: reasons her brash decision has favored her, from her Your counselor newfound knowledge to her new way to think about The Great Falls Area Chamber of Commerce prospective careers.

761-4434 “Instead of thinking about a job you want, think about a problem you want to solve.”

This winter is hostile. So hostile, I consider it one for the books. Not necessarily for the record books, rather for my epic winter reading bucket list.

What’s on my table of contents, you ask? Well, the list is completely non sequitur, but these are the books I’ve been dying to read and am going to in the last winter of my childhood.

“The Shining” by Stephen King I watched the movie when I was in middle school and it really freaked me out.

But to this day I’m still not exactly sure why, although the thrills and chills were incorporated into the film’s adaptation such as the creepy twins and crazed axe scene, even author Stephen King was critical of the lack of the major themes he was trying to convey in the novel. So needless to say, in order to solve my personal mystery of this infamous mystery thriller novel , “The Shining” is the first on my list.

“The Hobbit” by J. R. R. Tolkien So I know I missed the boat on the whole Hobbit craze with the last movie just

released in December, and most kids read this book in middle school at the latest, but to go off to college without reading this beloved fantasy story seems just plain wrong. I never got into the movies, although I’m a fan of the Lord of the Rings trilogy, but maybe after reading it my interest in singing dwarfs may suddenly become ignited.

“Catcher in the Rye” by J.D. Salinger I think this book will help provide a sense of inspiration amongst all my senioritis angst. Not to emulate Holden Caulfield’s anger towards the world but rather to escape from all my worries to realize they aren’t nearly so bad.

“Jane Eyre” by Charlotte Brontë I’ve read “Pride and Prejudice” about three and a half times, obviously I need to branch out with my itinerary of classic romance novels, and what better to diverge to than one of the greatest gothic novels of all time by the infamous Charlotte Brontë.

12 features

1.29.15 The Stampede

The Rustler Buddy system Rustlers offer help, support to elementary buddies

by jara wilkinson, staff writer Students of all ages often find they will struggle during a time of their life. The problem could be at home, work, or school. But most students have the most trouble with finding help. However, for certain elementary kids, their struggle gets easier to deal with, thanks to CMR Rustler Buddies.

Junior Angelina Birdwell, joined this year.

“I’ve been in it since October, and I’m already planning on it for senior year,” Birdwell said.

She admits her experience is a bit difficult. Her buddy is a boy who struggles at home. As a high school girl, she said she has trouble finding things in common with her elementary school buddy.

“He sees another buddy as well, and I feel that his other buddy can connect more, which is a good thing,” she said.

She became interested in the program her freshman year after creating a page on it for yearbook. She didn’t join until this year. But she’s glad she did. She offers as much help as she can, and she said she benefits in many ways.

“The best part is helping someone with a bad home life,” she said.

Senior Becca Rutledge agrees.

“I feel like, yeah. I’ve helped her a lot,” Rutledge said.

She said she sees her buddy every Tuesday, and when she sees her, the little buddy’s mood instantly

changes. Doing homework first is a requirement, but afterwards they play games. Go Fish, and Tag are common for the pair.

“Being a fourth grader, she probably has more sass than a high school student” she said.

Part of a buddy’s job is to have the elementary students open up and also help them academically.

But what are the high school kids getting out of it?

“I’m a role model for her. You don’t get much, except for that satisfaction,” she said.

She said her main inspiration was from her past buddy experience. She had a buddy while she was in sixth grade, but they stopped showing up after two weeks. She wanted it to be different for another child.

They’ve reached out. The buddies have been much happier, and their attitudes have improved the girls said.

“Volunteering like this just makes you feel like a better person,” Birdwell said.

In addition to Birdwell and Rutledge, other Rustler buddies include Amy Barille, Andrew Grinde, Brenna Gilbertson, Brett Smith, Jared Dickson, Jed Engebretson, Karl Tucker, Kim Ekberg, Kylie Greenwell, Michaela McKamey, Michaela Hepler, Payton Netz, Rylee Brokl, Shelbe Barringer, Talya Vaira, and Tammy Schwenck.

Be aware and be prepared.

Don’t get into a car with someone who was drinking.

During Rustler Buddies on Jan. 27, junior Kylie Greenwell plays Tik Tak Toe with her buddy from West Elementary School. Photo by Jara Wilkinson.

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features 13

The Stampede 1.29.15

Students join Navy with exciting careers in mind Air Force was going, and he advised me that the Navy by drew brennan, staff writer Working with nuclear energy is not a career path that would be a better option for me,” he said.

After talking with a Navy recruiter, Rogers needed many people choose, but doing it while serving your to take the ASVAB, a placement test used in all military nation, that is even more rare.

Senior Brandon Rogers has signed with the United branches. He scored with flying colors with a score of States Navy as a nuclear propulsion physicist. He 93, thus allowing him to choose the job of a nuclear is going to ship out Aug. 11 to the Great Lakes Naval propulsion physicist.

While Rogers will be spending the bulk of his time Academy for basic training.

Rogers is one of few nuclear physicists to come out of on a submarine or an aircraft carrier, senior Kim Eckberg hopes next to a bed helping her Great Falls and into the Navy. patients as she serves her country.

“We’ve had a couple “nukes” come “The Navy core values “The military was never an option out of Great Falls, but I haven’t gotten the are honor,courage,and at first. The idea of it was just horrible,” chance to speak to any of them,” Rogers commitment. I plan to Eckberg said. said.

Eckberg said she wanted to do He will go through basic training uphold those to the best pursue a career in nursing starting with before attending a two-year nuclear school of my abilities to serve college at Montana State University. in Charleston, s.c. my country.”

The civilian life seemed like the life “From what I’ve heard the nuke school that would fit her best after moving is pretty rigorous, but also really fun. I’m around for a lifetime with military excited,” he said.

Rogers will enter the military as an enlisted soldier parents.

“I have lived here longer than anywhere else, for but get the chance to become an officer through the Seaman to Admiral program, which is something that no almost five years,” she said.

Eckberg received a message on Facebook from a other branch offers.

“Right now I owe the Navy four years but I would Navy recruiter, but she thought nothing of it. Not long after, she received another one. After putting more really like to stay in it for 20,” he said.

Rogers’ father was in the Air Force for 22 years, and thought into some of the financial benefits of a military he gave Brandon the idea to join the military, and even life, Eckberg said she decided to take a free day and go talk to the recruiter. the Navy.

“The more I thought about it, the more I realized “My dad didn’t like some of the direction that the

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that it would help pay for college, and I liked the idea of traveling all over. I have been all over but don’t have a favorite place yet,” she said.

In August, Eckberg decided she would join the Navy and become a Hospital Corpsman. There was only one hiccup -- a heart problem.

Tachycardia is a condition in which the heart rate is heightened above average levels. While the average heart rate is close to 60-100 beats per minute (bpm), Eckberg’s is elevated to 90-100 (bpm). She said after a close evaluation the doctors have cleared her of any complications.

“They just don’t want me to cause issues. They don’t want me to be in danger or put anybody else in danger,” she said.

While Eckberg still has not sworn in officially, she knows she made the right choice.

“The Navy has everything in it,” she said. “They have people on ships, that fly planes, and are on land.

They have people everywhere,” she said.

The Navy has a lot, including the Navy SEALS, a group which senior Christian Rodriguez aims to join.

Rodriguez has already passed practice tests to be able to try out for the SEALS. If the SEALS do not work out, Rodriguez has picked his job for the NAVY: a Hospital Corpsman.

Rogers said he will wear his country’s colors proudly.

“The Navy core values are honor, courage, and commitment. I plan to uphold those to the best of my abilities and serve my country.”

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14 features

Take the long way home

Students, staff share stories of long rides into town

driving in is the damage to his car, a Dodge Dart Rallye, by jesse whiteman, staff writer Alone on the open road extending into the expansive, during the winter.

“There’s been a lot of damage done to my car because frost-bitten plains west of Great Falls, senior Danica Sanders grasps her Hyundai Elantra’s steering wheel, road conditions are bad,” he said.

Sharing Sowa’s concern about the roads, Associate whispers to herself, and begins her slow trek to school.

“When it’s cold and the roads are icy, I sit in silence Principal Beth Gerhart dislikes the harsh conditions.

“I get up that much earlier [and] get home that much and pray,” the Sun Prairie resident said. “When it’s icy it’s later,” said Gerhart, who drives her Subaru very stressful. I go 20 [miles per hour].” to school from her home just outside of During the winter months, Sanders Belt. “This winter has been some of the said her 12.5-mile drive takes her up to 45 “When it’s cold and worst roads I’ve driven in 13 years.” minutes in order for her to arrive in time the roads are icy, I sit in Gerhart, unlike Sanders and Sowa, for her 7 a.m. Culinary Arts class. silence and pray.” said she enjoys her commute into town.

“I have to get up earlier every day,” “It gives me a chance to get ready for she said. “If it’s a normal day, I get up at the day,” Gerhart said. six and leave at 6:30. That gets pushed Gerhart and Sanders own opposing views for their back 20 minutes for roads.”

Sanders is just one of many Rustlers who drive from drives home.

“It’s a nice time to kind of debrief, so I can unstress on neighboring towns and communities to attend C. M. the way home,” Gerhart added.

Russell High School.

“Usually the sun’s in my eyes. It’s not a pretty drive,” Sanders said that she had the option of going to either Sanders commented.

CMR or the Vaughn Public School.

However, Sanders shares Gerhart’s enjoyment of “Vaughn is very small,” Sanders explained. “When I was younger, I lived in town with my parents. So I went solitude.

“I like being able to sing while driving, without anyone through the public schools in Great Falls.”

While Sun Prairie is small, Sanders said it feels an staring at me,” Sanders said.

Gerhart said that she prefers her quiet time. extension of Great Falls – bearing a different name and a “It’s one of the few times I can be alone,” Gerhart greater distance from convenience.

“I hate being far away from everything convenient,” said. “My day here is always dealing with students and Sanders said. “It sucks having to drive all the way back to teachers. It’s the quiet time I enjoy.” my house then back to work. It’s a waste of gas. There’s no benefit of living farther away.”

Junior Justin Sowa also dislikes the distance between his home in Ulm and CMR. “You can’t forget anything,” Sowa said. “You can’t run home real quick. You don’t have that luxury. Going home is the last option.”

Like Sanders, Sowa feels a slight disdain for small town living.

“My parents like it,” he said. “I don’t know anybody in the community. It’s weird everybody knowing your business.”

He said that the journey has become hypnotic after making it countless times.

“It’s like déjà vu. It gets really distracting. I’ll just drive to CMR. It took me a while to figure out that there was a faster way to where I work,” Sowa said.

Along with deer, Sowa said that his biggest concern

Danica Sanders

The Stampede 1.29.15

Beth Gerhart spends an average

hour and a half

driving to school and back Students from Simms drive

35 miles

on the highway and interstate Justin Sowa takes at least

15 minutes

traveling from Ulm Danica Sanders leaves home at

6:30 a.m.

to arrive for her zero period Driving from Sun Prairie is a

24 mile

round trip for school Photo by Jesse Whiteman.

features 15

The Stampede 1.29.15

The beginning of the rest of their lives

Ten CMR students to graduate early at semester end by laura marsilio, news/opinion editor As the final bell rings at the end of the semester, one small set of students will take a deep breath as they realize that bell has signified their last day as a high school student.

“Sometimes I second guess myself,” senior Ricki Conlan said as she realized she was soon to graduate.

Conlan, along with nine other Rustlers, will be spending the end of the semester celebrating. Each year a group of seniors decide to graduate one semester early in the graduation process.

“You have to cram everything into a deadline,” Conlan said, explaining the struggles.

Focusing on the future instead of the now, senior Taylor Crowe is nervous about what is going to happen once this semester is over.

“Everything’s going to happen so fast [after graduation],” Crowe said.

At Charles M. Russell High School students are required to complete 23 credits in order to graduate. For these few early grads, the pressure to earn all of the credits on time is high.

Senior Jacob Schearer is one of the students who has yet to feel the pressure.

“Everything has been pretty easy,” Schearer said.

Although he will miss his friends the most, he said he is ready to complete his final semester of high school.

“I want to just work and ski until college in the fall,” he said.

Schearer, who is planning on studying business management at the University of Great Falls, believes that his

decision to graduate early was a great idea. Senior Sara Geary is feeling the short end of the stick.

“I know that I want to go to college. I just don’t know what for yet,” Geary said.

Crowe is also deciding whether he wants to go to college for flight school or into a nursing program. Instead of pressuring himself to decide right now, he is taking time to think it all through.

“I know I want to take a year off before college,” he said.

The early grad seniors will be having their senior experience cut in half in order to have their college experience started early.

“The social aspect of leaving and not being able to do senior things is hard,” Crowe said.

The courses, however, make the difficulty of leaving their friends behind is easier. “[The classes] are a lot easier than I expected it to be,” Geary said.

With only a few seniors doing early grad, the learning environment encourages students to work harder and it increases the understanding.

“It’s always a small class so it’s a lot better [for learning].

You get to know the other kids and there’s more one-on-one time with the teacher,” Geary said.

Geary did not decide to graduate early until the middle of August, and although she does not know where or what she is going to college for, she is ready for this semester to be over with.

Her advice to juniors that are considering it: “Just do it.”

Through the eyes of an early grad by amanda melton, guest writer I am a full-time high school and college student right now with finals coming up: you could say it’s a little stressful. I’m sad to be leaving CMR, of course, but I’m also really excited to pursue my life outside of high school. It’s completely surreal, growing up so fast. Next fall I’ll be at Carroll, and I’m so excited.

Right now I’m taking basic courses at Montana State University-Great Falls and my life is so filled with homework it’s ridiculous. I actually skipped school to do homework. How weird is that? Anyways, I’m so grateful for all the teachers at CMR that pushed me to be successful, because here I am graduating in a week and I am so ready.

I really don’t have much else to say except I’m ready for college! It’s exciting to be able to get ready for what I want to be in the future. Although between high school and college at the same time. I am totally stressed out, it’ll be worth knocking out a few required credits before I transfer to Carroll. Not to mention my first class of the day isn’t until 2:30. That’s a bonus, too.

I’m ready for my life to start.

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ENTERTAINMENT

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Guilt y Pleasures: What’s your t hought?

American Sniper War movie touches the hearts of many

by carli dieruf and sarina calaman, staff writers From the outstanding cinematography, to the what feels like hour-long suspenseful moments, “American Sniper” is a must see movie for 2015.

Directed by Clint Eastwood, this movie stars Bradley Cooper as “The Legend” Chris Kyle as he serves four tours in Iraq as a U.S. Navy Seal.

Those who have seen the film know the way it tugs at your emotions. Every minute during the film you are constantly on the edge of your seat.

The actors put their heart and soul into the years that it took to produce the movie.

Each actor has an important part in this and without these actors the movie would not be the same Chris Kyle and Taya Kyle, who is portrayed

by Sienna Miller, play an important role demonstrating how each day of a soldiers life is lived. The two constantly battled marriage and family problems because of the amount of time that Chris spent away from their home.

This movie shows exactly what a soldier goes through while they are away and the things that each of them have to overcome when the soldier comes back home.

Living a life away from the people you love is difficult, and that has been proven through this film.

This is an action movie, mixed with horror and also romance.

This is a must watch, once you have seen it, you’ll want to know more about the life of a soldier.

Rated R. 2 hours 14 minutes. photo permission from americansnipermovie.com

GFPS EMPLOYEE DISCOUNTS

From personal obsessions to real-life situations, students reveal their hidden secrets

“My guilty pleasure would have to be law and order SVU. I can watch one season in about two days and that’s with taking breaks and communicating with other people. If I miss a day of watching it I feel like I am missing something. I usually wake up at 5:30 on a Thursday just to watch it on Hulu. I also feel like Olivia Benson and I are kind of like best friends because whenever I am having a bad day I watch a episode and she usually says something inspirational and it helps.”

-Rebecca Rutledge, senior

by tamara miller, staff writer Being asked, “What is your guilty pleasure?” can be a tricky question. A lot of answers end up being, “I don’t know”, “I don’t have one”, or often “What is a guilty pleasure?”

Discovering the secrets about fellow CMR students was an interesting assignment. Howeverk, the case was cracked and this is what our Rustlers have told us.

“A guilty pleasure... Maybe an addiction that you should quit but don’t want to, or something you really don’t want others finding out about,” sophomore Allison Hanson said.

For some students, being asked about a guilty pleasure makes you think. It took junior Katie Belcher a few minutes to come up with an answer.

“I guess it’s something that someone doesn’t want others to know, something that secretly makes them happy in a way nothing else can.”

She said she has no clue how to answer the question, but after some thought three words came to mind: Alice in Wonderland.

“I just absolutely love how everything is the exact opposite of reality. How everything is odd in their world,” she said.

Other students’ guilty pleasures are sometimes just actions.

Junior Tianna Stevens thinks telling the truth can be a person’s guilty pleasure.

“I feel like telling the truth can break a relationship but it can also gain a relationship,” she said.

Belcher said, guilty pleasures may even be something that defines you.

“It depends on the person, I think. If you’re more artistic or sportier, it just depends on your personality,” she said.

Stevens agrees.

“If you want to make the wrong choices in life that’s on you.

You’re the one who has to live with it,” Stevens said. “Now if you make the right choices in life it’s the same way. You’re the only one who can control what you do and say.”

In the end, Hanson, Belcher and Stevens agreed that a guilty pleasure is just something you enjoy doing.

“It doesn’t matter what other people say about it. If you love it you’re going to do it. You’re not going to stop doing something because someone doesn’t agree with you,” Hanson said.

“You’re just going to be you, and that’s the best you can do.”

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“I don’t really think I have a guilty pleasure but if I did I wouldn’t tell anyone.

It’s something you don’t want anyone to really know unless the person is your best friend. If anyone else were to know they may think you were weird!”

-Brenna Strong, junior

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SPORTS

Behind the Scores

17

Sports managers lend a helping hand to CMR sports teams by olivia rudio, features/entertainment editor

Although the spectators sit in Great Falls High bleachers, the fans cheer for “Great Falls Swimming: 4 Teams…1 Family” or at least that’s what the banner reads along the wall of the echoing aquatic center.

Sports Editor

lindsaymartinez

If that’s true, Great Falls High senior Penny Luetzen would most definitely be the mother of that family. And although she goes to the school across the river, when it comes to swimming she’s a Rustler just the same as a Bison.

“I feel like I’m a part of CMR in a way,” Luetzen said, adding that at practice. “You don’t really think about it when you’re all wearing the same thing.”

Luetzen started managing as a sophomore, and while she’s glad to see her three-year managing career coming to an end, she’ll miss not having something to keep her busy and “the huge family atmosphere.”

“I manage because of the atmosphere, Mac [Great Falls swim coach Ed McNamee], and getting to know people,” Luetzen said. “My freshman year I didn’t know anybody,” Luetzen said.

“I used to be really shy, I started doing this and now I can talk to strangers,” she said.

In fact, communication is the most important thing managing has taught her, including deciphering McNamee’s mumbo jumbo.

GFHS senior Penny Luetzen times Havre duels, Friday Jan 23. It was a relatively small meet as opposed “The most challenging part is understanding Mac’s mumbling,” Luetzen mused. to a meet which usually hosts five teams. Photo by Payton Netz.

“You can’t ask ‘what’ so you just learn to put bits and pieces together,” she said.

McNamee appreciates her effort.

Dawson intended to play basketball this year, but during soccer season she hurt her “We have six or so flyers-we only have one Penny. You do the math,” McNamee said. LCL and her knee.

“He makes sure I’m here and I make sure he does what he is supposed to,” Luetzen “I still wanted to be involved with [the team] so I decided to manage,” Dawson said. said.

“It’s nice still staying involved with friends.”

Sophomore Asher Lynde claims managing for the boys basketball team helps him While Dawson occasionally keeps books for the freshman girls basketball team, she organize his responsibilities. mostly films junior varsity and varsity games.

“I’ve gotten a good work ethic out of it because I have a lot of responsibilities and “For filming it’s easier to mess up,” Dawson said, recalling a couple times when she managing has taught me that they all need to be done,” Lynde said. forgot to move the camera. “I was just shooting the blank half of the court while everyone This is Lynde’s second year managing and this year he has a letter to show for it. was on the other half.”

“Last year I tried out [for the team] but then I didn’t make it so [assistant coach Ty] Even though she’s glad for the opportunity to work with the team, she said she misses Moore asked me to manage,”Lynde said. playing.

He’s yet to regret it and is proud of his achievements.

Senior Harly Rowe also decided to manage as an alternative to participating in sports.

“I lettered last year, a lot of people say, ‘Oh you lettered in managing, that’s kinda “I decided to manage because I’m not cleared for sports,” Rowe said. “I needed somedumb,’ but they don’t just give it out,” Lynde said. thing to keep my mind off my medical problems.”

While his responsibilities may be tedious at times he knows the importance of his Managing for the wrestling team, Rowe appreciates the time she devotes to the team. work.

“I enjoy spending this much time in the gym,” Rowe said. “Working with the boys is “Film is really boring, but it’s the most important because [they] need it to get better.” really fun and funny. I have been able to get close to a lot of senior boys and have created Freshman Jessica Dawson agrees. a lot of friendships that I wouldn’t have without wrestling.”

“With filming I’m usually by myself and even though I get homework done it’s kind of boring,” Dawson said.

A couple weeks ago, my family was listening to Montana Public Radio as I was eating breakfast one morning. As is the case for many kids, Public Radio bores me with its different genres of music and the desire to consider all things, no matter the relevance.

But on this morning, I heard something about the Montana High School Association, the group that is in charge of high school sports in our great state and an association that actually has to do with my 17-year-old, high school girl life. I started to listen.

The story was about a proposal to allow high school students who are transgender to compete on whichever sports team, boys or girls, they identify with.

At first, I thought something selfish: it wouldn’t be fair for a boy, who would probably be bigger and stronger than a girl, to compete on a girls high school sports team.

Then, after a couple bites of oatmeal and a sip of water, I realized that was probably a silly thing to think.

There are things more important than the outcome of high school athletic events, even if prep sports are such a huge part of my own life and the lives of other students. Still, so what if a transgender kid happened to become the best or one of the best players on a team?

This proposal could open doors for kids who are struggling with their identity and let them be part of a team. Maybe, allowing a kid to participate in a sport could make a huge impact in that student’s life. Sports could give them something to look forward to and live for, just like they have for me and lots of other athletes around the globe.

Athletics are incredible because no matter where you live, what language you speak, what religion you follow, or anything else, you can participate and have

fun. Sports allow people to connect with each other.

Also, competitions teach people what it takes to be a member of a team.

This particular issue in Montana comes down to a matter of how tolerant people are of others’ differences.

In today’s world, technology has made us more aware of each other than ever before.

The question is: will we accept other people for who they are and try to accommodate their differences, or will we leave people out because they’re not the same as us?

If the answer is to be accepting (and I hope it is) sports can be an awesome way to include more people and let them have fun. This isn’t politics or money or some other activity with universe-changing implications. Sports are games, and everybody should get the chance to play.

1.29.14 The Stampede

sports 18

Survival of the fittest Crossfit offers teens a way to stay fit

Top: Big Sky Crossfit coach Ryan Smith aims high for completing his round of box jumps. Bottom: Perfecting her form, Mara Livdahl does a clean and jerk with a 65lb. bar.

Photos courtesy of Ryan Smith.

by katelyn smith, staff writer Ask sophomore Mara Livdahl how she would define “high intensity,” and she might utter just one word: Crossfit.

“You have to go into it knowing you aren’t as good as everyone else,” Livdahl admits about the vomit-inducing workout.

“I puked after a workout once, but it’s hard to stop going back.”

Sprinting down the field during a girls soccer game against Sandpoint in November 2013, Livdahl snapped her tibia, which led to her love for Crossfit.

“My physical therapist recommended that I start Crossfit to help me get back faster,” Livdahl said.

Crossfit is defined as a workout incorporating elements from high-intensity interval training: Olympic weightlifting, powerlifting, gymnastics, strongman and other exercises.

What also sets Crossfit apart from a standard gym is the members and their sense of family.

“It’s not a regular gym. Everyone is really nice, and they don’t make you feel bad when you can’t do something,” Livdahl said. “It’s basically a playground for adults.”

Along with Livdahl, CMR staff member Andrea Carroll finds that the family aspect keeps her going back.

“Everyone works out as a family,” Carroll said. “We cheer each other on and you’re never left alone.”

Junior Nick Harris experiences the same encouragement as he strives to improve his day-to-day life.

“At first I was intimidated working out with a bunch of older people,” Harris said. “I found that they were all extremely supportive even though my skill level was lower than most.”

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Livdahl can agree that everyone is supportive in muktiple ways. “Ryan [Big Sky Crossfit coach] and I talk and he helps me out with family issues and school work.

He’s like an older brother,” Livdahl said.

Despite the family atmosphere that draws everyone back, what seems to start the Crossfit addiction are the unordinary workouts.

“I really like the ‘Filthy 50’,” Harris said.

“It works all of the different muscle groups at once.” The ‘Filthy 50’ incorporates movements such as box jumps, burpees, double unders, and push presses.

Crossfit has its own dictionary full of terms that someone that doesn’t do Crossfit would struggle to know. Some are WOD aka workout of the day, or referring to the gym as “the box.”

“I like the term EMOM,” Livdahl said.

“It means every minute on the minute. So it’s a quick fast paced workout.”

Along with a fast paced workout, Carroll enjoys the same concept.

“I like AMRAP’s. It’s as many reps as possible,” Carroll said.

When you begin doing Crossfit, you can expect a few things. One is you’ll never do the same workout twice. That’s what makes Crossfit a unique and different style of working out.

“Everything about it feels natural,” Harris said. “And it makes climbing the stairs at school easier.”

While Harris enjoys the feeling of improvement, Carroll appreciates “having a personal trainer 24/7.”

“Why pay more to have a personal trainer when you can go to Crossfit and have a personal trainer all the time,” Carroll said.

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1.29.15 The Stampede

How well doyouknow your

Rustler Athlete? by peyton fulbright, editor-in-chief You see them on the field. You seem them in the halls. You see them going to practice, but how well do you actually know them? C.M. Russell High School has one of the most prestigous athletic programs in the state, made up entirely of student athletes. Although they get attention from the media about their games, wouldn’t you like to know what they are really like? In this monthly feature, three in-season athletes will be profiled in a brief Q&A about their personal life.

What’s the most embarassing thing to happen to you?

When I was 11 or 12, I was playing 500 with my dad and brother, and I was trying to get underneath the ball to catch it and I tripped in a kiddie pool that was in the backyard. I was soaked.

What’s your biggest superstition?

I always have to wear my Dennis Rodman socks when I dress up on game days.

What’s more important, your shoes or your hair?

My hair is definitely more important. I like to get it trimmed up before a game to keep it looking clean.

Who is your biggest role model?

Probably my grandpa. I learned everything I know about basketball from him.

sports 19

RUSTLER STATS On Jan. 16, the Wranglers honored 3

senior dance members for drill team Jan. 23, the girls swimming team won all 10

events in their meet against Havre and Great Falls High

Zach Johnson, 12

When they tell you that abortion is a matter just between a woman and her doctor... they’re forgetting someone.

There are alternatives to abortion.

There have to be.

Before you choose to have an abortion or encourage someone you know to have one, take the time to get the facts.

For free literature about abortion and the alternatives, write to:

Great Falls Right to Life 500 Montana Ave. NW Great Falls, MT 59404

PER MU U

The Stampede 1.29.15

Jordyn Voss

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