CMR Stampede May 2017

S

Saying goodbye to the seniors: Class of 2017 leaves rowdy legacy

The Stampede

Stampede -- May 11, 2017

WHAT’S INSIDE

C. M. Russell High School Great Falls, MT May 11, 2017 Vol. 52 Issue 8 www.rustlernews.com

11-14

Special section takes a glimpse at CMR and Great Falls in its first years

19

Countless hiking opportunities abound in Great Falls’ backyard

An open forum for student expression since 1965

22

Smoker continues to excite in second year back

S The Stampede

editor-in-chief Mackenzie George news editor Katelyn Morley opinion editor Jessica Banks features editor Clara McClain entertainment editor Quincy Schmechel

staff writers Amanda Cornwall Andrew Aron Aurora Oden Chloe Geary Gabrielle Pope Hannah Pate Hannah Pospisil Ian Kaiser Lexi Bako McKenzie Connell Sarah Ljunggren

sports editor Ashton Palen online editor Isaiah Vang

adviser Beth Britton

photo editor Julia Gremaux

principal Kerry Parsons

business manager Emily Cappis

Cover photo by Julia Gremaux.

TABLE OF CONTENTS NEWS

16-- Art show 3 -- Katelyn’s column, school board, dissection 17-- Outstanding juniors, Ayana Gray 4 -- Retiring teachers ENTERTAINMENT 5 -- Construction update, student elections 18 -- Quincy’s column, songs, Orchestra tour 6 -- Ms. Britton appreciation, AP tests 19 -- Camping/hiking

OPINION

7 -- Jessica’s column, editorial, journalism 8 -- Whitewashing in Hollywood, California trip 9 -- R-word, year in review, vaccinations

FEATURES

10 -- Clara’s column, grad gift, European trip

SPECIAL SECTION

11 - 14 -- CMR’s first years

FEATURES

20 -- 13 Reasons Why, MTV

SPORTS 21 -- Ashton’s column, Softball 22 -- The Smoker, tennis, track/field 23 -- ESPN documentary on Ryan Leaf

BACK PAGE 24 -- Senior sendoff

15 -- Sophie’s column, farewell to exchange students

To solve “fake news” problem, take in more, not less Editor-in-Chief

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.

On May 2, the CMR varsity softball team beat the Bison with a final score of 1- 0.

Senior pitcher Tristin Achenbach celebrates the win, and sophomore Madison Moore hit the winning point with a homerun. Photos by Julia Gremaux.

MackenzieGeorge

C. M. Russell High School Great Falls, MT May 11, 2017 Vol. 52 Issue 8 www.rustlernews.com

As the media is increasingly portrayed as the “bad guy,” I find myself wondering: is it? In some cases, this idea rings true.

The outlets that deliver this “fake news” vary depending on whom you talk to, but as reader- and viewership decreases, newspapers, magazines, and television networks have started to rely on the shock factor to hit their ratings.

“Sad!” as our President would say, but true. Even sadder, perhaps, is that the blame doesn’t just fall on the outlets. Some of it is on us as consumers.

We fill our feeds and mailboxes with what we want to hear.

Liberals tune into CNN; conservatives turn to Fox News. Our reporters of choice tell us how off-base the other side is, and we assume they’re correct. I know I’m guilty of this. Sometimes I don’t take the time to consider the other side. Other times I simply don’t want to, preferring to accept what I want to hear as fact.

Fiction or not, we could all benefit from searching through these publications ourselves instead of acquiring our news through layers of party values or tall tales that are always more popular than cold, hard facts. The simple answer is to find a middle-of-the-road outlet. But these are becoming more and more challenging to find.

There just isn’t a demand for that anymore. It’s much easier -- and more interesting! -- to listen to Alex Jones rant for an hour than read in-depth stories about Syria or healthcare systems.

The other issue is that sometimes we just don’t want to hear the truth. There are issues in our world that are horribly difficult to stomach right now. But this makes them even more important.

I’m not saying don’t watch the news, ignore the media.

In fact, I’m hoping you’ll do the opposite. Check out different ideas and decide what you believe for yourself. Accumulate knowledge from across the spectrum and form your own opinions. Watch the news. Read newspapers and magazines.

(Read the Stampede!)

Part of our goal as a student newspaper is to pass on the opinions of everyone. We have both pro-life and pro-choice reporters; our writers are aspiring politicians and sports fans and musicians. Room 326 is a haven of diversity, just like the world is. We hope that the First Amendment continues to be shared and considered nationwide, and globally, as it is in our newsroom.

Here’s to a great summer, Rustlers. We’ll be back next year, more opinionated and dedicated to honest reporting than ever before. Honest reporting -- none of that fake news stuff.

S News

May 11, 2017 rustlernews.com

3

Great Falls community votes down high school technology levy, keeps three incumbents on the school board

by Hannah Pate, staff writer In the upcoming school year construction On May 3 the citizens of Great Falls will begin on two new elementary schools, voted against a technology levy and to to eventually replace Longfellow and keep incumbents Don Ryan, Chairman Jan Roosevelt Elementary schools.

Cahill, and Jason Brantley on the School CMR will also be receiving funding Board. for infrastructure upgrades. Some of the If passed, the amended high school improvements being made are a fire alarm technology levy would have asked for system replacement, foundation repair and $500,000 annually and increased the stabilization, elevator repairs, and a new average taxpayers’ taxes by 39 cents per CMR multipurpose space. month.

The school board planned for the worst, The decision to hold an election on a and reduced its expenses-- primarily in levy was made at a the area of salaries school board meeting by cutting multiple We are still shortchanging in March, since the positions. district was faced the needs of our students as they “We reduced with budget shortage prep for college, trade school, expenditures by $1.8 as a result of the million and that will overall state budget military, and the workforce. carry us through the Jan Cahill shortcoming. upcoming school year.

The district just This means reduction received a $98 million bond, but these funds of approximately twenty-four positions, can only be used towards infrastructure mostly at the high school level,” Cahill said. purposes and not other expenditures such All budget shortcomings come with as salaries. consequences, and Cahill knows the GFPS Recently reelected incumbent Jan Cahill budget is no exception to these. has been serving as a school board trustee “By not having the levy pass, we are still for twelve years. shortchanging the needs of our students as Cahill says he is disappointed that the they prep for college, trade school, military, technology levy was not passed, but looks and the workforce,” Cahill said. forward to the upcoming school year, and Cahill is still very grateful to the the promises that it holds. community for their support of the bond “The construction of two new issue. elementary schools, major remodeling of “I appreciate the support of the CMR high school, and making sure that the community for the $98 million bond issue,” bond money is spent appropriately,” Cahill Cahill said. said.

School Board Members •Jan Cahill (Chair) •Jeff Grey (Vice-Chair) •Don Ryan •Bob Moretti •Laura Vukasin •Ann Janikula •Jason Brantley

Pig dissections going away

“

”

News Editor

KatelynMorley

What is the difference between an operational levy and a bond levy?

Students dissected pigs in Mr. Davis’s Biology 1-2 class this year. Photos by Julia Gremaux.

Jan Cahill has been a trustee on the GFPS school board for twelve years. He looks forward to the next school year, and seeing the bond money being put to use. Photo courtesy GFPS.

The GFPS School board made the decision in March to hold an election on a high school technology operational levy. This is different than the election that the district held for a bond levy last October.

by Clara McClain, features editor The 2017-2018 Biology 1-2 course is going to look much different than the class taken by sophomores in the past. The pig dissection will no longer be a part of the curriculum as changes to state and local teaching standards are coming into place.

“It will reduce the content of the class making it easier to focus on the big ideas we want to [cover in the class],” biology teacher Tom Cubbage said.

CMR has continued to do the dissection up until this upcoming school year, unlike Great Falls High, which stopped doing the more expensive lab and replaced it with an eyeball dissection about 7 (check) years ago. The science department valued the lab since it gives a hands-on experience to anatomy and physiology, aiding students in learning how all the body systems work together.

“With new state standards and a revision of the Great Falls Public Schools standards, there isn’t much anatomy and physiology,” Cubbage said.

Instead, the course will focus more on students creating their own labs and designing them rather than going off a cookie cutter worksheet, according to Cubbage.

operating levy- relatively flecible source of funding, in this case funding technology upgrades

bond levy- can only be used for construction and maintenance of capital property.

Senior staff member recounts highlights of high school As the school year comes to a close and I have reached the end of my final year here, I have come to understand what’s most important in our short few years.

We enter high school with our friends from middle school, but for most those friendships fade. It’s a part of life even though it may hurt and be a rough patch that one must go through. However, you will find that from this you make new friendships that are changing, and this is something to embrace.

I’ve learned to enjoy what these new relationships bring, especially in our military town. I have been lucky to meet people who have lived all over the country, even overseas. They have taught me so many unique things that we don’t experience in this small town.

I have learned that these ever-changing friendships are a part of life. Over these four years I have also realized that it is important to enjoy the little things that bring you happiness.

High school has rough moments, so finding what you enjoy in it is important. I

found joy in finding friends in every class, trying new creative classes, and, most of all, newspaper.

Walking into Intro to Journalism as a sophomore I never imagined the relationship I would form with writing. I took the class because I had thought about journalism before and wanted to try a class, but it turned into so much more. I never imagined that I would become an editor for this paper. I found a passion in news writing and wanting to inform our student body about what’s going on around us. It allowed me to show who I am in a way I never thought of before because writing allows us to express so many things. .High school has its ups and downs, and there are days where we all wish we could just graduate, but the lessons we learn here are important. They have helped me grow into the person I am, including the classes that I look forward to everyday that make it all worth it at the end of the four years.

S

May 11, 2017 rustlernews.com

News

SAYING GOODBYE

by Chloe Geary, staff writer

Retiring teachers prepare to bid CMR farewell

Every year a different number of teachers leave CMR due to retirement.

These teachers are loved by their students, and will not be forgotten by the lives they touched while educating at CMR. This school year, five teachers will be leaving CMR to pursue the joys of retirement. They’ve spent their lives devoted to teaching, and deserve to be recognized for their efforts.

Great teachers touch the lives of their students in ways the educators might not completely understand, but we can try to tell them before we graduate, or they retire.

These teachers are: Pam Dougherty from the Consumer Sciences department, counselor Julie Graham, Murray Metge from the science department, chemistry teacher Karen Spencer, and art teacher Jackie Van Heel.

Jackie Van Heel, Art

Jackie Van Heel has taught at CMR for 13 years, and to teach kids and spend time with students somehow if in that time she has instructed a variety of art classes. I can,” she said.

She began her career at North Middle School before Like the other retirees, her days won’t be empty. moving to CMR. “I want to spend a lot of time painting and spending “I’ll miss seeing the kids after I retire. Seeing the light time with my grandchildren,” she said. “I have two bulbs go on for them, the discoveries,” she said. grandkids.”

Even though Van Heel is retiring, she still wants to “I’m going to miss my students terribly. I want them inspire kids and teach around town. to keep working hard in the arts, to keep the department “I don’t want to get out of art education. I still want here. Keep experimenting and exploring.”

For the past 39 years, Karen Spencer been teaching. with the kids and the teachers. That’s going to be the Her entire career was spent at CMR. She’s taught hardest thing, not meeting new kids every year and not Karen Spencer, Chemisty various chemistry classes and Spanish. Her first year being with my peeps,” she said. teaching she was in room 326, and her last year was Her days won’t be empty after retirement, though. spent in 327.

“I have some definite things I want to do. I play “One of my favorite things about teaching is piano, and for a lot of years I haven’t been playing that you have the freedom to be creative everyday. seriously so it would be nice to start playing every day.

Everyday, every period is different. Even when I have a Also, I actually would love to learn how to cook. I love lesson planned it takes on a new dimension throughout to bake, but I would love to get into cooking,” she said. the day,” Spencer said.

She also wants to ski and spend time with family.

She loves teaching, which is why she’s devoted “I want to tell my students to keep challenging her life to it. She said she’ll miss many things about themselves. Take full advantages of the opportunities teaching at CMR. at highschool. It’s free.”

“I’ll miss the human contacts, the friendships I have Pam Dougherty will be leaving the Consumer ground more,” she said. Dougherty’s business is called Sciences department at CMR, she’s been in for five D Stitching and Embroidery, and she does creative Pam Dougherty, Con. Science years. fabric crafts and embroidery.

“I’ve been teaching since 1981, but only the last “I look forward to doing whatever I want whenever five years have been at CMR,” she said. The rest of her I want, on my own schedule,” she said. career has been spent subbing, teaching in Power, and Dougherty also plans to travel after her retirement. teaching at both the middle schools in town.

“I want to go back to Hawaii, and I have plans to “I teach Consumer Sciences, but I’m also a librarian. go on an Alaskan cruise. Also, my husband and I have When I was in Power, I split my time between the home a fifth wheel trailer, so we can go wherever we want ec class and the library,” she said. to,” she said.

Dougherty says that she’ll miss the kids the most Dougherty has a lot of stuff planned, and she has a after her retirement. few things she wants her students to remember.

“I have a sewing business that I need to get off the “Live life to the fullest. Life safe and have fun.”

For the last four decades, Julie Graham has spent her time at middle schools and high schools around Great Falls before settling at CMR in 1987.

“It’s really fun to watch kids mature into amazing adults. That, and the connections I get to make, those are my favorite things,” she said.

“After I leave CMR, I’m going to kayak and hike. I want to enjoy the Big Sky and spend time outside with my friends and family.I plan on spoiling my grandbabies, too.”

Other than spending her days outside, Graham wants

Murray Metge, Science

to give her time to charities including Red Cross and Neighbor Works.

“I’d like to build houses. I’d like to help people build houses. I love doing that kind of stuff,” she said.

Graham has a few pieces of advice to leave for her students.

“Be humble and kind. Also, work on communication. If you don’t have the skill of one-on-one communication, it will come back to bite you.”

Murray Metge has instructed Foundations of Science at CMR for the past 11 years. Before that, Metge taught at six different high schools around the nation. He’s taught in Idaho, Montana, New Mexico, and Washington.

“I’ve had a lot of good things in my life that have come from teaching. Some of the best things are the individual experiences I’ve had with my students,” Metge said.

“Overall, I think the thing that I’ve enjoyed the most is going out into the community and running into students that I had years ago. Just having conversations with

Julie Graham, Counselor

4

I’m sad Mrs. Graham is leaving because I think she’s a fantastic person. She’s an awesome counselor. It’s a bummer that she would like to retire this year, but I’m glad that she’s pursuing what she wants to do.

Trisha Elliott, 11 Mrs. Van Heel was my art teacher for two years out of my high school career.

She is incredibly caring and truly wants to see her students succeed in the arts.

Sarah Ljunggeren, 12 Mrs. Dougherty was my drivers ed teacher.

She’s such a nice, caring, compassionate person.

I really liked her as a teacher and I’m going to miss seeing her around school a lot next year.

Natalie Carr, 11 Mrs. Spencer is one of the best teachers I’ve ever had the pleasure of learning from. She pushes her students hard and knows when she needs to be tough, and when she can joke around. I’m honored to have been in one of Mrs. Spencer’s last classes.

Words can’t describe how she has shaped me as a student and as a person.

Josey Quinn, 12

I’m really sad Mr. Metge is leaving because he is such a great person. He was so hands on, he wanted us them is so great.” to actually learn and get Metge plans on moving to Albuquerque, New Mexico experience doing things, or and starting his own business called Quality Locators.

“It’s a water leak detection service. I have a boy that at least as much as you can has a plumbing service down there, and he’s going to in Foundations of Science. work with me to get my business going,” he said.

“My last advice to my students would be that it doesn’t matter what field you go into, just be on time when you go to work. And when you get there, be willing to work.

That will take you further than you think.”

Sophie Kluge, 10

S

May 11, 2017 rustlernews.com

News

Student Government Student Body

President: Nico Sanchez Vice President: Julia Gremaux Secretary: Cole Strong

17-18

“Julia, Cole, and I are honored to receive positions so important. Next year will be the year that everybody gets to shine in different ways. We plan to give them the opportunities to do so. It will be a great year for CMR. Let’s show how diversified we truly are. Go Rustlers!”

- Nico Sanchez

Seniors President: Mackenzie George Vice President: Rebecca Bergman Secretary: Bridger Brady

“My slate and I are very excited to be class officers. We have all been involved the past couple years and are looking forward to planning prom, Homecoming, and making next year the best it can be.”

- Mackenzie George

Juniors President: Jayson Ingalls Vice President: Mario Roque Secretary: Carly Cushman

Sophomores

President: Madison Mitchell Vice President: Rylee Mitchell Secretary: Manuel Montoya

5

“I’m really excited to have this opportunity. I think we can do some big things next year and we have a great class to work with.”

- Jayson Ingalls

“Rylee, Manuel and I are honored to be elected this year.

We would like to work with sophomore class as a whole being such a great class. Let’s make this year an unforgettable one.”

- Madison Mitchell

The multi-purpose center will be built adjacent to the fieldhouse, on the southwest corner of the building. Photo by Sarah Cherry. The STEM classroom is being constructed on the north end of the IT building, next to the faculty parking lot. Photo by Gabrielle Pope.

New construction is on the horizon for CMR

by Gabrielle Pope, staff writer On Oct. 4, 2016, voters passed a $98 million bond to improve the construction in the Great Falls Public Schools, and we can start to look forward to some ground to be broken soon.

The improvements at CMR will include updated heating and water systems, some foundation issues will be fixed, and school officials are hoping to improve the quality and speed of the elevator. The upper bleachers in the gym are also in need of renewal, and a few additional minor things infrastructure-wise, but there will also be two new big additions to the school.

Students are not the only ones who are looking forward to all of these changes.

Principal Kerry Parsons is also eager for the renovations.

“We are very excited to see all of these meetings and plans come together and start to see some changes that will help us educationally. It’s pretty awesome we get to do that,” he said.

Not only can Rustlers look forward to a second gym, but there also will be a STEM room attached to the original Industrial Technology building by the faculty lot.

Parsons is hoping that all the construction will be done by the fall of 2018, but in the months until then there might

be minor inconveniences for students and staff members.

“I mean we might hear the hum of construction, which may be a little bit distracting to classes, but the construction companies have agreed to work the least distracting hours and have their equipment out of the way of students,” he said.

They are hoping to see some ground broken sometime in June, soon after school is out for summer vacation. Parsons says there is rapid progression on the STEM building.

In the new gym there will be a weight room as well as a wrestling room. The wrestling room will be safer and more fit for wrestlers, and the current wrestling room will be used for aerobics or extra space for gym warm-ups.

It is undecided what the current weight room will be used for, but Parsons says that it may be used as office space or a meeting room.

The new gym will tie onto the current fieldhouse, by the softball hall of fame in the southwest corner,.

Parsons said they are going to utilize all of the old space and the new space in the most effective ways possible.

Est. in 1918

“Where friends meet and become our friends, too!”

4th Generation Proudly Serving You! Steaks Chicken Seafood Homemade Spaghetti Sauce & Ravioli

Now also a B&B

In Black Eagle

1800 Smelter Ave.

761-0300

5 p.m. Mon-Fri 4 p.m. Sat & Sun

,

S

May 11, 2017 rustlernews.com

News

6

Journalism adviser goes above and beyond As the 2017 school year comes to a close, the Stampede would like to thank our fantastic adviser. Beth Britton, more commonly known as B, is one of the first in the building and one of the last home at the end of the day. She goes above and beyond for her students and is less like a teacher and more like a parent. She cares for their success not only in school, but in life, and she works hard to prepare them for the real world.

The journalism room is a hectic place. At least one of Britton’s six classes is always on deadline. Her newspaper class produces a paper monthly, and her yearbook staff has monthly

deadlines as well to keep the publication on track. While juggling these two staffs, Britton also heads two intro to journalism courses, teaching students basic writing and design skills and encouraging them to take part in newspaper or yearbook next year.

We love B and her penchant for golden retrievers and Buddhas. Some of us have even picked up her taglines like “Let silence descend like a gentle rain.” We know she has touched the lives of many at CMR, and she will continue to do so until she retires...which we hope she never does...or at least not for a very long time.

B has become a big part of my support system while I’ve B is honestly one of the most passionate, caring, and driven teachers “ “I have been here at CMR. I honestly don’t know what I would do ever met. She deals with so much and juggles multiple obstacles without the newspaper room as a safe haven and B as my school mom. I love B so much and she doesn’t get enough credit for all she does for us.

”

Clara McClain

Ms B is always happy and I have never met a person who “ puts more effort into their students or the work they produce than her. She has made my high school journalism experience one I will never forget.

”

at once and it is really astounding. She has helped me through all the trials of senior year, and I wouldn’t be where I am now without her.

I am now planning on adding a journalism minor, and am seriously considering a career in public radio

”

Hannah Pate

“

Ms. B has always been there to help me and is always supportive in everything I do. She makes class such a fun place to attend and I couldn’t ask for a better teacher.

Jessica Banks

”

Isaiah Vang

seeks out opportunities for her students, and she passes on is like my second home and I don’t mean that in the way “herBpassion ““326 for journalism to them. She encourages me to push that I am here all the time, I mean it in the way that I have never myself and supports me all the way. I love spending time with her not only as a mentor but a friend.

”

Mackenzie George

Beth Britton grins during May 9 late night. Late nights, held on Tuesdays before distribution,

walked into a room and felt more love and accepted than in this room. We are all one big happy family under the direction of Mama B and I wouldn’t want it any other way.”

AP test-takers cram in an effort to earn college credit Senior pushes the limit by undertaking half a dozen tests this spring

by Mackenzie George, editor-in-chief Most students undertaking a single AP test would feel challenged. But that’s not enough for senior Jeremiah Ormseth, who is signed up for six.

“It mostly just worked out that way, because I was taking econ, AP English and AP Gov., and for econ there are two separate tests -- micro/macro -- as well as English, lit/language,” Ormseth said.

Ormseth enrolled for English Literature and Composition, English Language and Composition, United States Government and Politics, Microeconomics, Macroeconomics, and Statistics. To prepare, he attended an economics study group put on by government teacher Brian Halverson.

“It’s optional, and only for econ,” Ormseth said. “And we have been doing practice tests in English.”

Ormseth is no stranger to AP testing. He took the AP U.S. History test last year and passed to earn college credit. The testing environment, he said, isn’t bad.

“They do the testing in the same place along the river every year, and it’s actually a really comfortable and relaxing space,” he said.

Ormseth feels “moderately confident” about the tests, explaining that “it is right at the end of the year, which will be a busy, fast time.” He advised other test-takers not to be worried about the tests.

“CMR has excellent teachers, and they will prepare you for it,” he said.

Allstate Insurance Company 518 9th St. South Great Falls,MT 59404 Mark R. Cappis, CPA Shareholder

mrcappis@azworld.com www.azworld.com

While graduation is on its way, there is still time to volunteer

Key Club Whatever the problem Tammy will solve ‘em

21 Tenth Street South Great Falls, Montana 59401 Tel. 406.727.0888 Fax.406727.0895

”

Gabrielle Pope

9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Auto, Home, Business and Life

Tammy Quintrell-Stubbs Exclusive Agent The Quintrell Agency

Phone: 406.453.9460 Fax: 406.771.7130 Email: tammyq@allstate.com

Meets Mondays in room 325 @ 4 p.m.

S Opinion Editorial Policy

JessicaBanks

Opinion Editor

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 Montana Journalism Education 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.

May 11, 2017 rustlernews.com

7

Meaningful schedules aren’t crammed with opens For underclassmen, scheduling is over and done. Electives have are chances to enjoy school, to take a well-deserved break between been selected, opens have been placed as strategically as possible. algebra and biology. We urge students to not miss out on learning new And here at the Stampede, we’re feeling the effects of a high school skills or making friends for a chance to grab coffee or go home early. populus desperate for as much free time as possible.

High school is free (for students, at least). College isn’t. Many kids Seniors are allowed up to three opens (when in good academic capitalize on what could be open periods and get a head start earning college credit. If you aren’t interested in an elective, add a standing), but more and more juniors and sophomores are clawing for free periods. And classes that don’t fall under core From dual-credit class to your schedule. You’ll thank yourself later.

We aren’t advising students to skip the fun and load up on requirements -- like the Stampede and Russellog -- are feeling point of view the consequences from this search for fewer classes. classes senior year. But the Stampede staff enjoys their time in As students, we all experience some boredom. Some subjects simply room 326. We learn life skills like working on deadline or maintaining don’t interest us, and without much freedom of choice lackadaisical strong lines of communication. We form long-lasting friendships. days are to be expected at the high school level. But if students took We have fun...something that, in our opinion, isn’t as prevalent as it the time to crack open CMR’s course catalog, they’d be surprised at should be at the high school level. the variety of offerings this school supplies.

This is not a plea for students to sign up for newspaper or yearbook Oftentimes, we are so focused on fulfilling this fine art credit or next year. It’s an appeal to consider what you can do to make your that career technical semester that we forget there are a multitude high school experience the best it can be. of options to satisfy not a requirement, but a passion. Culinary arts, But we’re always looking for writers, photographers, or students computer programming, fashion design, power tech, sculpture, or just looking for a place to belong. There’s something for everyone in guitar classes aren’t offered to fill up space in a handbook. These room 326.

OUR

Journalists are being portrayed in the wrong way

by Sarah Ljunggren, staff writer What do you think of when you think of a journalist? Do you think of them as people who are working every day to share stories with the public and inform them of what’s going on?

Or do you think of a journalist as a horrible person who will do anything for a story? Nowadays, being a journalist is a risky field. Many people have turned their backs on journalists and don’t trust stories that are being reported on. The number of people who have stopped tuning in to the news has really spiked in recent years. This could be for many reasons. I personally believe that it is because of the recent increase of false information being spread on the Internet. Many people rely on sites that aren’t verified and expect them to give real information.

Another issue that I have seen is how journalists are being portrayed in TV shows and in movies. I have noticed that whenever a journalist is shown on the screen, he or she is portrayed as the enemy -- the person who is only there for a story, and doesn’t care what they do to get that headline.

This recent display of journalists may have a bigger effect on people than they realize. Many people who watch these shows and movies develop an opinion about journalists, because for some, that is all they ever see of journalists. They don’t read about how journalists are living in the Middle East, and some who have even lost their lives, in order to report and tell people what’s going on. They don’t watch the movies

Jose Feliz, 70, of Tijuana, reads Semanario Zeta, a weekly investigative publication, at his newsstand El Chino in Tijuana, Baja Calif., on April 13, 2017.

Zeta has received recent threats from Mexican drug trafficking cartels for their reporting on crime. (Gary Coronado/Los Angeles Times/TNS)

about how two journalists brought down a corrupt President; or the journalists who have brought light to people who need their stories to be told.

Stereotypes don’t help conservatives or liberals This last year has been a very interesting one, full of surprises no one ever expected to see in our country and world. One of the biggest surprises to America was the Presidential election. Now I know that was six months ago, and everyone is sick of hearing about it, but the news hasn’t calmed down in regards to the outcome and next steps of our President.

Many people who voted for Donald Trump are coming around and saying it was a huge mistake, while others are loving what he has done for our country in his first 100 days in office.

Ever since the election -- and especially before -- there has been discrimination towards many groups of people. Where all of these minorities are extremely important, they are coming together as one to unite against not only Donald Trump, but those who support Donald Trump.

These people who dislike those who support Donald Trump claim conservatives only see the world with one pair of eyes, believing they are all viewed as the most racist or sexist stereotype.

I am a conservative, and I voted with that party in the election. I am a female who voted for Donald Trump, and that doesn’t always make sense in people’s minds --

especially in the last couple of months as the results of the election have played an active role in our country.

Those who voted for the Democratic party in the Presidential election say our country should accept everyone and see everyone in a fair way looking past all of the stereotypes and try to get to know each individual person.

However, because I voted for Donald Trump, I have been asked how I can be a female voting for him, and me voting for him was basically saying I hate women. Not only this, but because I am a conservative with traditional values, many people believe I am a chauvinist and think that gender inequality should be ignored.

The way that I have seen this world work for those who are liberal is that “we should accept everyone for who they are, but if you don’t agree with us then you’re wrong.”

I don’t see where these two things line up. I actually love being a female, and I think it is awesome to see powerful women rise to the top. I think that it is important to see everyone with the kindest eyes and to accept everyone for what they believe.

My beliefs and morals don’t mold me into a stereotype. I am my own person, and just because I am conservative it doesn’t make me fit the mold our world has created for those who voted for Donald Trump.

,

S California dreamin’

May 11, 2017 rustlernews.com

Opinion

8

Swedish exchange student travels to the Golden State

by Aurora Oden, staff writer Everybody has a dream vacation or place to visit, and I just experienced one of mine. As an exchange student from Sweden who had never been to America before, everything’s new and exciting.

But going to Los Angeles was definitely one of my exchange year’s top experiences so far. EF, the organization I’m with, offered a California trip to all of their exchange students in Montana, and I got to go as a birthday presents from my parents.

The 24 hours of driving with 20 students and five adults squashed in two vans was totally worth it. I’m actually happy that we drove instead of flying since we got to see so much more, and I realized how huge and different the states can be. We started out in Butte, drove through Idaho and Utah, cut the corner of Arizona and then continued through Nevada and California to finally reach our destination in Southern California After dropping off our bags we went straight to the Hollywood Walk Of Fame. Walking on the stars with celebrities’ names on the sidewalk and eating enormous burgers at the Hard Rock Cafe was definitely something extra special.

Our second day started out with an NBA game between the Clippers and Lakers at the Staples Center. Even I, someone who’s not really a basketball fan, can’t describe the feeling while walking into the foggy, loud, enormous arena.

We spent the rest of the day on Santa Monica Beach.

Sadly, the water was too cold to go swimming, but the air was warm and felt amazing after months of cold weather in Montana.

Disneyland was definitely the highlight of my trip.

Walking into the park was literally like walking into the Disney movies. The size of the park and how detailed every little corner was amazed me a lot. The roller coasters and how huge they were was

definitely something new and exciting even though I’ve been to amusement parks before.

Another thing I loved with the park was the night show. They ended the day with a huge firework show above the big Disney castle in the middle of the park.

We drove up to the mountain our last day to get pictures with the Hollywood sign. It was hard to actually get close to it, but it was definitely worth seeing anyway. We spent the rest of the day in the car driving from Los Angeles to our last destination, Las Vegas.

Going there felt like being in a dream. I’ve seen Las Vegas on pictures and in movies before, but I’ve never actually thought about it as a real place where I actually would be some day.

That’s where I did the thing I never thought I would do in my whole life. I decided to do the Sky Jump from the Stratosphere building. Standing on the platform 829 ft above the ground, watching the city under me and waiting to take the step was the scariest thing I’ve done in my life. Luckily, I survived, it was totally worth it and a great way to end my trip.

Swedish student Aurora Oden visited the Santa Monica beach, Disneyland, Hollywood Sign and Hollywood Walk of Fame in Los Angeles. Photos courtesy of Aurora Oden.

Whitewashing in Hollywood continues into the modern era

by Chloe Geary, staff writer In the 1890’s, the film industry began. It didn’t take long before movies became a centerpiece of American culture.

About 100 years ago, when film businesses began to take shape, the problem of casting people of different ethnicities arose.

America, a nation where slavery was legal until 150 years ago--- with segregation being legal until 53 years ago-- couldn’t handle the thought of casting a person who was African American, Asian, or Hispanic.

Out of this situation emerged blackface and yellowface.

When a role in a script wrote in a character who wasn’t white, Hollywood’s white actors would dress up in makeup and prosthetics to imitate a person of color. These imitations were racist themselves, and the roles were racist as well.

In the classic movie “Breakfast at Tiffany’s,” white actor Mickey Rooney played Mr. Yunioshi, an Asian character in the film. In order to play the part, Rooney wore yellowface,

heavy makeup used to imitate someone Asian.

To further this obvious act of racism, the creators of “Breakfast at Tiffany’s” added an accent and a mouthpiece to make the actor look bucktoothed. These racial stereotypes were wildly criticized for being featured in the film.

Racism in Hollywood has changed over time, going from using makeup to make a white person to look like a different race, to making movies with absolutely no roles featuring people who aren’t white. This practice is called whitewashing.

Numerous movies in Hollywood have been accused of this practice.

For example, “Argo” won best picture in 2012 despite featuring Ben Affleck playing a man who is half Mexican, and Clea Duvall, a white actress who played a role of someone who is half Japanese.

Another instance is “Edge of Tomorrow,” a 2014 film that featured Tom Cruise in the role of a character who was

originally Japanese -- Keiji Kiriya.

Other films include: “The Last Airbender” (2010), “The Lone Ranger” (2013), “Scarface” (1983), and “Gods of Egypt” (2016). There are countless others, as Hollywood has existed for nearly a century, and racist agendas have existed alongside it.

The lack of diverse characters in Hollywood has sparked commotion and criticism, as it should. Movies and media are supposed to hold a mirror to our society, and tell the stories of our time for future generations.

When the film industry whitewashes their art, it reflects on our society as a whole. To keep filmmakers from continuing whitewashing is important for our generation and the generations to come.

The tradition of only using white actors has plagued the film industry for years, and it needs to end.

The only way for to stop it is to inform the public of what’s going on in Hollywood, and inflict change on a major scale.

,

S Opinion Rustlers against the “R” word

by Gabrielle Pope, staff writer “Retarded: slow or limited in intellectual or emotional development: characterized by mental retardation.”

That is the definition of retarded, according to the MerriamWebster Dictionary. The thing is the majority of people know that, yet it is still used as an insult to their friends who are fully mentally capable.

I understand that slang words exist like -- “stupid,” “idiotic,” or “silly”-- to describe others who are acting out, but when you call another retarded you not only are offending the person who you are saying it to, but you also are dehumanizing those who are “slow or limited in intellectual or emotional development.”

It seems harmless, and it’s just a word -- until it hurts real people. It enforces a stigma that eats away at one’s self-esteem.

It negatively affects not only the people who are developmentally delayed but also their friends, family and those who support and love them.

The majority of us don’t The majority of us don’t use use this word with the this word with the intention intention of hurting or hating of hurting or hating those those who have special who have special needs, but needs, but it does encourage it does encourage the idea the idea that they are less that they are less worthy. worthy. None of us choose to be the way that they are, and saying words like retarded makes them seem less worthy than the average being.

I want everyone to know that my point is much more than just choosing a different word. It may be the first step to people recognizing that we are all equal, but it isn’t the last. Some may have to think of things different or do things differently because of what they have been through or are going through but they are still people with feelings and emotions just like us and using a word that implies they are less than that shouldn’t be used.

This word is used as a joke and we think that just because it is a joke that it’s okay, but it’s not. There are countless words in the English language, and using one that is a slander on people who have been pushed to the side there whole life isn’t a very funny joke.

It’s all about respect. We stopped using the “N” word to describe people of color because it’s disrespectful. To see the change, you have to be the change. It starts by noticing every time you say it, then progresses to not saying it and then eventually you help other realize the negative impact it has and they go through the same process.

I am a millennial who is taking a stand against the “R” word, and you should, too.

“

”

May 11, 2017 rustlernews.com

9

President Trump held a press conference with members of the GOP, on the passage of legislation to roll back the Affordable Care Act, in the Rose Garden of the White House, On Thursday, May 4, 2017.

(Cheriss May/Sipa USA/ TNS)

A year of unpleasant surprises

by Hannah Pospisil, staff writer The year of 2016 and the beginning of 2017 has been a time of hatred and conflict for many people.

The leading cause of these issues was the election.

I know that some people don’t care about politics, but nobody can deny that Trump’s election has caused dispute throughout the country.

The problem is not only about Trump himself. It’s the fact that nationwide,racist, sexist, homophobic/ transphobic and xenophobic people have risen to the surface as an effect from his presidency.

Hate crimes have risen since the election, which creates a ripple effect of hatred and bigotry that formed simply because of the words Trump uses to inform others and express himself/his ideas.

Within the immediate first few days of Trump’s election, 1,094 bias-related incidents have occurred nationwide (source: Southern Poverty Law Center).

The incidents have reportedly decreased since the immediate aftermath of the election, but hate crimes are still on the rise.

These incidents have most definitely transpired because of Trump. His proposals about issues that have to do with minorities and women have caused an uproar in every corner of the nation.

He blames minorities for each and every problem this country faces. Therefore, racist people blame minorities for their everyday problems. Just because Trump bullies people and groups does not warrant anyone else to do the same.

Schools have also became more hostile than they

were pre-election.

A post-election SPLC survey of 10,000 educators, 90 percent revealed that the atmosphere throughout their schools had been negatively affected by the campaign.

Eighty percent of these subjects reported heightened fear and anxiety among students, particularly immigrants, Muslims and African Americans (source: Southern Poverty Law Center).

It disheartens me to know that children are being affected just because our President is acting mindlessly (and getting away with it) just to benefit himself.

There is an obvious problem that we are facing. Those who fail to recognize these issues cannot see through their own bias and prejudices.

Children should not have to feel uncomfortable in school, people of color should not fear that they may be attacked in any public or private place, transgender people should not have to feel like they’re walking targets for murder or assault, gay people should not be demonized, Jewish and Muslim people should not have to feel threatened because of their nationality and religion, and women should not have to live in the rape culture that surrounds us. Sadly, this is not the world we live in, and we are not progressing forward as a nation.

The Southern Poverty Law Center reports that America has a baffling total of 917 hate groups.

Trump’s hateful rhetoric has negatively affected all of us. America is not progressing as we have been trying to do for so many years. Instead, we are doing the opposite.

If changes are not made soon, we are heading towards a very bleak future.

Vaccinations are the right choice for public health in 2017

by Sarah Ljunggren, staff writer The issue of getting your kids vaccinated has been around for quite awhile, but it has recently been brought back to the surface. Some parents have come forward to say that vaccinations have caused their child to develop autism. Because of this, many parents have made the choice to not vaccinate their children, believing that it should be their own choice in whether or not they vaccinate. We have been getting vaccinations since 1796, but very recently there has been a lot of outrage about children getting them.

The public fears vaccinations because of lies spread and false information being told.

Many common claims, according to the World Health Organization, are that people who get vaccinations are more likely to get the disease; because of our increase in health and sanitary

services there is much less chance to get a disease so there is no need for vaccinations; vaccines actually cause more harm than good; and vaccines can cause autism. There has been lots of research done that disproves almost all of these fears. Even though many articles and research has been published to ease people’s fears, many still chose to ignore this fact.

Instead they chose to focus on false information given out by unqualified individuals.

Why should high school students care? We do not have children of our own, and it seems irrelevant to even be discussing why vaccines are so important. Every high schooler should be educated in a subject that could affect them or affect them in future years. This is also a topic that will not resolve itself and we will also have to the face it.

We will all have to decide for ourselves whether or not we want to risk getting vaccinations.

S Features The

grad gift

May 11, 2017 rustlernews.com

10

you can’t wrap

Senior takes trip of a lifetime to Italy, Greece

by Mackenzie George, editor-in-chief Senior Sam Workman had an idea that she would be taking a big trip to celebrate her senior year. “[My parents] always promised me when I was younger that when I graduated they’d take me to Europe,” Workman said. “One day, they just told me to brush up on my Italian because they booked a cruise.”

Workman’s ship left from Rome on Apr. 20 and made numerous stops along the Italian coast, Montenegro, and three stops in Greece. There are plenty of spots in Rome that she was looking forward to exploring before the cruise, particularly the Colosseum and Sistine Chapel, not to mention “all the authentic cuisine,” she added.

Workman returned May 1 after nearly two weeks of sun, memories, and photos. The trip went really well, she said “Just doing a lot of tours and trying to soak up all the culture and history” was what really stuck out to Workman about her trip.

Not every senior year is capped by a tour of Italy, but it was a great way for Workman to end her high school career.

ClaraMcClain

Features Editor

European Snapshots

photos courtesy of Sam Workman

Features editor reflects on all she has learned in newspaper All I really need to know, I learned in newspaper.

Being on the newspaper staff at CMR taught me most of what I need to know to be successful wherever I go. Being part of any sort of team teaches life lessons that cannot be learned alone; groups are important and can get more things done and reach more people than one individual.

Working in groups can be a blessing or a curse, and it all depends on my attitude and how I approach the project. Set a goal, make a plan, follow through, and check in often.

Life has deadlines; follow them. Not following these deadlines hurts those around me just as much as it hurts my reputation.

There are guidelines for everything, but that doesn’t mean they can’t change every once in a while. Sometimes it’s nice to follow these, but some things require more creativity and pizzazz, and those items require a little more attention and care.

Pizza and brownies and a good laugh make everything better. If I have these before a long working period, it won’t seem so long, especially if the laughter continues. If this was a requirement before every governmental meeting, imagine how much calmer and more responsive everyone would be. Putting my emotions down on paper makes every situation clear. Never say something outloud that I wouldn’t be comfortable with a teacher, or even the principal, reading.

Approach each aspect of life unbiased and gather the facts before forming an opinion. If I have an opinion before going into a situation, I try to prepare for the worst,

but hope for the best so that I’m never disappointed. I am entitled to form my own opinion, never my own facts. Gather the facts from as many sources as I can find, and weed out those tinged with opinion. Choose the ones that are backed up with some form of research.

Life requires visuals. People enjoy seeing what I’m talking about whether it’s in the form of movements or pictures. Take photos, draw silly doodles when the urge strikes.

Never underestimate the power of a good visual.

Apologize when necessary and let those around me know when I am overwhelmed.

They can help lessen my stress and that, in turn, will strengthen my relationship with them. Stress never helps any situation and I can’t do anything if I’m so worked up that I can’t even sleep.

If I surround myself with good people everything will work itself out. People make the experience; it does not matter what I’m doing, the right people can make even the most boring trip the most exciting part of my day.

Newspaper is a part of me that I’ll never forget. It’s taught me how to be independent and never take no for an answer.

S When the student becomes the teacher

Blast

from the

past

May 11, 2017 rustlernews.com

11

Kasi Thompson 2003-2007

When I was in high school (10 years ago) things weren’t drastically different than they are now. However, we didn’t have cell phones until my junior year so our version of distracting ourselves from learning consisted of passing notes to each other or did some good ol’ fashion counting the ceiling tiles. It wasn’t until my senior year that many changes were being made the building. The awesome CMR bleachers were being put Volume I

Great Falls, Montana, May 11, 2017 Number 8 in during the time of graduation so we are the only class to ever have our graduation ceremony at the Four Seasons Arena. There were cliques during my four years but for Two wrestlers remained undefeated as the Rustlers took down the Helena Bengals the most part everyone just hung out with Great Falls Public Schools will be saying everyone. Overall, CMR was an amazing place goodbye to a dedicated member, James on Jan. 21, 1967. CMR improved to 5-2 as a team as Dale Schafer and Dave Denning to experience high school and I am elated Bergene, who has been in the district many won their bouts to keep their perfect records unblemished.

The Rustlers’ two losses came from Missoula Sentinel and Missoula Hellgate, but to be back in the building that shaped the years now. He started as a principal of Paris person I am today!

Gibson Junior High School and then moved the team was optimistic heading into state, especially with strong leadership from on to being Schafer and Denning. The latter won a 7-2 decision against Helena’s Thad Thomas at the principal of 120 pounds. In the 112 bout, Schafer pinned Jim Morrison.

Defending state champions Missoula Sentinel challenged the Rustlers at the state Charles M. Russell 1995-1998 High School when tournament and eventually would repeat that year.

In the 90’s things were a little it opened in 1964, different at CMR. The gym did he was a principal not have the “wings” added on at CMR for 13 yet. So, the locker rooms were years; but Bergene Before the stores near to CMR were what they are today, it was just an empty field. smaller, and the Art and Health Occupation didn’t stop there, Then K-Mart came in 1973. Shortly after the other buildings that now hold the Dollar classrooms did not exist. Instead of having two after his 13 years Tree and Big Bear Sports sprung up. As the town continued to grow so did the locations lunches, we had three. Other than that, it was at CMR he then and stores that were coming and going from those spots. Once again Great Falls is good ole CMR! I am fortunate enough to teach went on to be the superintendent of secondary adding to this area with the new Ulta store being built currently. The growth around with many of my former teachers, including education. Bergene recently retired as the CMR has changed since its first school year of 1956-1957.

Mrs. Spencer. She is the reason I became a superintendent of secondary education but is teacher! I am really going to miss her and all still going to pursue his educational career as my former teachers as they each work their principal in Ashland, Ore. way toward retirement.

PRINCIPAL RETIRES HELENA VS CMR WRESTLING

Amanda Kohut

NEW STORES AROUND THE SCHOOL

Vandals at CMR

Lorna Nelson

1967-1971

In 1971 I graduated. That year girls could wear slacks or culottes (skorts). We no longer had to wear just dresses or skirts and blouses/ sweaters. We won a wrestling rug. We also had a lot more assemblies--not just pep assemblies.

Clubs were better attended and there were a lot of them. The Beatles and the Monkees were popular musical groups.

Students had to eat at the school-- your own or hot lunch. We didn’t have open campus. Students could drive to school if they were older than 16, but they couldn’t go out to their cars or drive anywhere until after school.

We didn’t have any open periods either.

Students in DECA had jobs so they could leave if their jobs started before the official end of school. There weren’t as many sports available for girls as there are now.

REAGAN BRIDGES GAP The Governor of California recognized the significant separation between the generations of this time.

As he understood that the generations which he was apart of was beginning to become less apparent in the way communities grow and progress he highlighted some of the events that stood out for his generation.

Inspiring hope and promoting future success he addressed the fact that the new generation of leaders and workers would be making new advancements in other areas and they would progress in different ways because of how the times were changing.

It is interesting to see that our world has been and always is changing each generation has something different to offer the country and it is important to recognize each generation for what they have to offer and not for the differences which some may not appreciate.

A scary incident has hit CMR High School during the week of Feb. 23, 1987. A sudden break into the school has gotten everyone talking. An unkown criminal broke into the school twice stealing valuable items used by many students.

The first break-in happened on Monday Feb. 23 during the time between 6-9 p.m.

The missing item, a VCR costing about $385.

The following day the criminal broke into the school library. Forty-two tapes, a calculator, and even small change was taken.

Police officers took on this case and tried to find anything that would give them a lead onto who was the criminal. Sadly luck was not on their side. There were no signs of forced entries or even suspects.

Until the criminal is caught, the Principal, Don Peterson, said that the school will start to lock up at 6 p.m.

To this day the criminal has not been caught and is still roaming the halls of CMR. Will we ever find this runaway criminal? The world will never know.

Seniors Gary Peterson and Kathy Baumgart, King and Queen of this year’s King Kold Formal, are pictured here just after their coronation at last week’s dance. Both students were chosen to reign in a special schoolwide election.

Photo: Stampede 1965

Blast

S

Rustler styles

FROM THE

by McKenzie Connell

The teens of the ‘60s rocked the flips and curls. The banging bangs roamed the halls of CMR, along with many other high schools across the country. The haircut can vary from person to person. On some the hair “fishbowls” and just curls under their chin and stays there. For others the tips flair out in a perfect “U” shape.

There are also additions to these two styles. Some girls add bubble bangs that go down to their eyebrows.

If a girl’s hair is longer than shoulder length, then it is most likely pulled back on top of her head, or tucked behind her ears with a headband. But the girls weren’t the only ones who cared about style.

For the boys, it was nice and short, with perfect slicked back bangs. Their hair was always styled to perfection with never a hair out of place.

1968

1968

1978

60’s

Sheila Jung graduated in 1966.

1987

1987

A cute, exchangable, beaded collar

A simple cardigan

past

from the

TO

14

today

The styles have greatly changed since CMR opened its doors. Junior Clara McClain is an obvious example. Gone are the fishbowl haircuts that ruled girls’ lives. Now hairstyles range from long, straight hair, to short, curly bobs.

Students roaming the halls of the 2017 CMR show a shocking variance of hairstyles. Some have the short clipped hairstyles, like McClain. Others sport a blonde ombre, most likely past shoulder length. If a student is feeling extra laid back, then a quick messy bun finishes the look. If they are wanting to change things up, then a French, fishtail, or just basic braid does the job.

The boys’ style also changed. Shaggy long hair, to spiked short is the range there is today. All styles are different, Junior Clara McClain shows each varying to the students’ taste. off her original hairstyle.

1997

1997

2005

2016

A cute flannel, (from her own closet)

A simple T-shirt to wear under the relaxing flannel

Simple, stylish belt

muted Cute skinny jeans

Nowadays, students can either have neck to ankle covered, or nothing at all, depending on the weather. Modesty is a thing of the past. Gone are the skirts and cardigans; here are the leggings and flannels.

Who knows how many girls have raided their dad’s closet to get that perfect, baggy flannel.

Pair it with a pair of leggings, and even better, socks and sandals, and she is right on the dot.

A floor length skirt

Popular sandals

brand

name

Before jeans hit the schools, skirts and cardigans were the rage. Black dress shoes with white shin socks accompanied the duo. Making sure the skirt length was to or past the knees was always a concern. An average teenage girl’s closet consisted of muted colors, most likely pastel, and maybe some stripes on the collar and wrists.

1969

May 11, 2017 rustlernews.com

1969

1980

1990

2000

2016

S

May 11, 2017 rustlernews.com

Features

15

Foreign exchange students prepare to say goodbye page by Clara McClain, features editor and Emily Cappis, business manager

Symbat Slambayeva

Aurora Oden Aurora Oden came into America not knowing anyone and barely understanding the English language. Now as she comes to her to the end her year-long American adventure to return home to Sweden.

She will be leaving with not only a new family, but a completely different outlook on her life.

“You realize things when you’re away, and you’re growing as a person,” Oden said.

Oden has enjoyed the school spirit that CMR has shown her.

“I love how the school has so much spirit; we don’t have that in Sweden,” she said.

Oden enjoyed participating in swimming and tennis during her time in Great Falls. Thirty years from now Oden believes she will still remember how much fun she had at prom. She plans on staying in touch with her new exchange friends and her newfound second family. She is also hoping to return to CMR next fall to finish her senior year. In the meantime, Oden’s kind heart and constant smile will be missed in the halls of CMR.

Symbat Slambayeva will be leaving the halls of CMR to return home to Kazakhstan after being an American student for a year.

“I’m going to miss CMR. I go back to my old school for five days when I go home and I’ll miss the lockers and not wearing a uniform,” Slambayeva said.

School sports and the pride they foster in students has been one of her favorite aspects of life in Montana.

“This year was my first time doing a sport, I did swimming and tennis,” she said.

She was looking forward to that part of life as her old school does not have school sports. Much of life in America has met Slambayeva’s expectations as she did a lot of research before applying to come to the USA. “Everything was as I expected,” she said.

Slambayeva will be missed at CMR as much as she will miss the community of teachers and students here.

Teona Gogritchiani

Chise Suzuki Chise Suzuki is going to miss the different classes offered at CMR, like all those in the music and family consumer sciences departments.

“I’m so glad I can take [interior design],” Suzuki said.

She’s going to miss the differences between her school in Japan and CMR -- which she has grown used to during her time in Great Falls. ”I’m going to miss my friends and host family, and I’ll miss tacos,” she said.

Experiencing American holidays is one of her favorite things about spending time in Montana. She also enjoyed going to prom and Homecoming, as those aren’t a part of high school in Japan.

Suzuki is going to miss all the friends she has made here and the great atmosphere made by the staff and students at CMR.

Teona Gogrichiani is one of four exchange students who entered the doors of an American high school for the first time this year. Gogrichiani is from Georgia, and she will quickly correct you before you can ask you mean the state? Her Georgia is located between the Black Sea and Russia.

Like other exchange students, she has become fascinated with the spirit of CMR. “CMR has such magnificent school spirit,” she said. “Basketball games have been the best part of my exchange year.”

She even found some love for the game in her time at CMR. “[Basketball] was just a casual sport to me, but it’s became so special for me because of you guys,” she said. While Gogrichiani enjoyed her time watching basketball, she enjoyed her time on the tennis courts a bit more.

“I hate running, but I love running when I am playing tennis,” she said.

Her favorite part of playing tennis was her teammates and the encouragement of her coaches.

“I am going to leave my heart in Montana, Great Falls, and CMR because I am sure this has been the best year of my life,” she said.

German foreign exchange student is excited to return home to Montana after 10 months abroad

by Sophie Aron, former staff writer As you may or may not know, I’ve been an exchange student in Germany for the past eight months. I am a former CMR student and will be returning to CMR next year for my senior year.

During my time here in Germany, I’ve really made myself a second home.

I’ve found a solid group of friends, learned my away around my town and have become a true member of my photo courtesy of host-family. I am finally becoming more confident with my German speaking Sophie Aron. abilities, which has allowed me to participate in many more conversations. I’ve fallen in love with the beautiful country of Germany. Now this is all great, but the day that at the beginning of my time here couldn’t come quick enough, is

now quickly approaching. That day being my flight home.

When I left for Germany more than 250 days ago on Aug. 18, 2016, I had absolutely no idea what to expect out of my year here. I wasn’t all that nervous when I said goodbye to my family and friends; I knew I would see them in 10 months.

I thought of it as just taking a little break from my American life. Leaving and saying goodbye to everyone here in Germany is going to be much different. I’ve built this life for myself in the past year, but now at the end of June I’m going to be leaving it forever, not just for 10 months. I’m going to miss so many things here: my friends, host family and just everyday life.

While I know it’s going to be tough to leave my new home, Germany, I’m also so excited to come back to Montana and see all the people I haven’t seen for nearly a year. I haven’t really experienced much homesickness during my time here, and I’m very thankful for that. I’m looking forward to

being with my family again and telling them all about my experiences here, and also hearing what they’ve been up to while I’ve been gone. I mean, of course we message quite a bit, but it’s not the same as talking. My parents are going to come visit me in Germany during my last few weeks here, so that will be very neat to show them around.

In the past year, I think I’ve matured and changed quite a bit, hopefully all for the better. My mind has definitely been opened to different ways of thinking and ways of life.

I think this is something that’ll stick with me and help me throughout the rest of my life. I’ve also learned how people in Germany celebrate holidays and go about their day-to-day life. I’m excited to take some of the customs back to Montana with me!

Although I know it won’t be easy to leave the life I have here in Germany, I’m looking forward to coming back to Montana in a couple months!

S

May 11, 2017 rustlernews.com

Features

16

Seamus Jennings with his double exposure titled Duality, down the hall onlookers view junior Taliyah Hanway’s and Allyson Dube’s artwork .

All ity C art show

by Lexi Bako, staff writer

It only happens a few times a year in Great Falls, when students get to see their artwork on display.

The annual GFPS student exhibition includes a wide a range of artwork from students from elementary school to middle and high school.

The art show took place April 20, and was preceded by an award ceremony. It was the 10th annual Zach Culliton Meriton of Distinction award presented at Paris Gibson Square to Dixie Ryan and CMR sophomore Anabelle Zamboroski.

“As far as I know my art has been in shows since elementary school,” Zamboroski said.

She said how her art being displayed in shows hasn’t been her favorite experience, but she does enjoy creating pieces and plans to continue making art.

Sophomore Allyson Dube also had a large multimedia piece in the art show titled “Damnation.”

“It wasn’t one of my goals just something that happened,” Dube said. “I was excited to go see something hanging on the wall.”

For students involved in the art world to have their work displayed in a professional setting is an opportunity to take advantage of.

“It was cool to actually go and see the art show,” Dube said.

The Zach Culliton Merit of Distinction award ceremony has created an annual event for students in Great Falls to get recognition for their work, and it is something people can look forward to attending next year.

Anabelle Zamboroski’s piece entered into the All City Art Show. Photos by Lexi Bako.

S

May 11, 2017 rustlernews.com

Features

OUTSTANDING JUNIORS 16-17

17

On April 11, the Great Falls Public Schools held the annual Outstanding Junior breakfast to recognize and honor juniors who excel in various departments at the high school level.

ART

Maygie Li - Jackie Van Heel

MUSIC

“Maygie is a dedicated student who has the ability and power and skills to become a very skilled and prominent fine artist.”

Kobe Rowe - Steve Olson

WORLD LANGUAGES/FRENCH Delayne Doucette - Erica Davis

“She is kind and is willing to work with anyone on a project or an in-class activity. It is an honor to be her teacher and to get to work with her everyday.”

SOCIAL STUDIES Zane Palen - Burke Allen

“Zane possesses a natural curiosity that is rare for a high school student. His maturity allows him to evaluate the world around him from multipule perspectives.”

MED PREP

Taylor Santy - Christi Virts

“Her openness to feedback means she’s always learning and growing as a learner, an impressive strength that will continue to serve her well in college and beyond.”

“In everything Kobe does, he is nothing less than diligent, dedicated, precise, courteous, respectful, gracious, and humble.”

HEALTH ENHANCEMENT Cade Jensen - Mitch Maki

““An “old school gym rat” he can frequently be found working out by himself or with teammates, displaying the dedication, work ethic, and level of commitment we don’t frequently witnes.”

DRAMA

Mary Brown - Chris Evans

“Whatever needs to be done Mary is at the front of the line volunteering to help. I wish I had about 100 more Mary’s but our classroom isn’t that big, maybe 50. I fully expect her to be the President of the United States, shes got my vote.”

ENGLISH

Sarah Cherry - Holly McEwen

“Many of her writing pieces resonate with me on a daily basis. Her words move me to think and live in the world with a different perspective. Because of Sarah I want to complain less annd be more grateful for the blessings in my life; I want to smile more and have fun.”

SCIENCE

Devin Hall - Karen Spencer

“His quiet demeanor and quest for acedemic excellence adds to a positive classroom enviorment.”

BUSINESS

Logan Stene - Travis Crawford

“Logan is a motivated hard-working student and seems to have found a passion for business. It has been a pleasure to have him in our department over the past few years and look forward to seeing what he accomplishes moving forward.”

INDUSTRIAL TECH Tiffanie Carter - Landon Stubbs

“Tiffanie is an inspiration to other students for what you can accomplish if you have a plan. She is a great person and a hard worker.”

CONSUMER SCIENCE Kylie Burtsfield - Pam Dougherty

“Kylie has a consistent and positive attitude in class and makes herself available to help others. We have seen her grow into the wonderful young lady that is delightful to be around.”

MATH

Gray to study at MIT for six weeks Just about as soon as the CMR student body bids the school farewell for the summer on June 8, junior Ayana Gray will be boarding a flight to Boston, where she will spend six weeks studying at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) in the MITES program -Minority Introduction to Engineering & Science.

She will spend June 10-July 21 living on the college campus with about 80 other students who were admitted to and received full scholarships to the competitive program.

“It will be a preview to college,” Gray said, adding that she will be enrolled in five undergraduate level classes, including calculus, biochemistry and physics. “I’m kind of nervous.”

Gray, who was named the outstanding junior in the math department by teacher Terri Dahl this year, is currently enrolled in Honors Statistics, Honors Chemistry and Introduction to Engineering.

She completed calculus during her sophomore year.

“What I definitely like about science is that everything basically revolves around science,” Gray said. “Everything is made of matter, and it explains the world around us. Science never ends. So many things can be created using the laws of science, and that’s cool.”

Gray said she aims to major in biomedical engineering, eventually studying to be a cardiothoracic surgeon.

“I’ve been interested in medicine since fifth grade,” she said. “My dad is a cardiologist, and that made me realize I’m interested in heart surgery this year.”

Gray said her time at MIT will ultimately help her when it is time to apply to college.

“My dream college is MIT,” she said. “I’m really excited to be in Boston. When we found out [I got it] everyone in the house was screaming. It was like Christmas Day.” The program will include weekend excursions in New England, which Gray said will be a nice break from her studies.

“I know it will be a lot of hard work. Everyone there will be super genious,” she said. “I’m feeling a bit intimidated, but I’ll do my best.”

JOURNALISM

Mackenzie George - Beth Britton

“As editor in chief of the Stampede newspapare, junior Mackenzie George has excelled in contributing to the overall success of the publication. In addition to being a strong reporter and writer - and one of the hardest working members on the staff - she is one of the nicest young women to cross my path here at CMR.”

S Entertainment

May 11, 2017 rustlernews.com

18

Songs of the Summer

by Hannah Pospisil, staff writer

“Birds Don’t Sing” by T.V. Girl

The band TV girl’s entire discography is like a summery dream. This song in particular instantly makes everything enjoyable.

“Wander” by The Aquadolls

“Palo Alto” by Devonté Hynes

This song makes me feel bad about all the stupid things I’ve done, but it’s just so pretty that it’s always on repeat.

Photo Courtesy Sports (above), Plums (lower)

QuincySchmechel

Entertainment Editor

This song right here is wonderful to bop to in the car. It’s ultra funky and will lift your spirits faster than you can say “Good golly gee this is a good song.”

I’ve never been to an island before, but whenever I hear this song I somehow feel like I’ve been transported to a beach in Hawaii.

“Parking Lots” by Plums

This song is so nice to drive to. It’s smooth yet catchy, and it also has a dreamy feel to it. It’s like you’re driving on a smooth cloud.

This cute little acoustic song is perfect for a laid back evening with the ones you love.

“Feel It All Around” by Wahsed Out

“Panama” by Sports

“Days” by The Drums

If you find yourself in a situation where you’re driving down a gravel road with your sunglasses on and your best friend next to you and you feel like you’re in a scene from an indie movie, play this song because it’s perfect for times like that.

“Beach Bummer”

by No Vacation

Do not let the title of the song fool you. This song should be entitled “Beach Not A Bummer Actually This Song Is Fantastic” because that’s what it actually sounds like.

Students gather with the cast of the MCT Production of “TheWizard of Oz,” left, and outside the UM School of Music. Photos courtesy of Garrity Wright and Kelsay Jensen.

Touring Chamber Orchestra performs music across Western Montana On Thursday April 27, the C. M. Russell Chamber Orchestra, directed by Steve Olson, began a three-day tour through Western Montana. Throughout the trek, senior Kelsay Jensen found the first performances in Helena the most satisfying.

In Helena, the ensemble brought music to the residents at Touchmark Retirement Community and Hunters Pointe Retirement Community.

“I really liked playing for the retirement centers in Helena. The elderly people were so sweet and appreciative,” Jensen said.

In total, the group played seven performances in three different cities: Helena, Drummond, and Missoula.

This included two master classes with Professors Dr.Luis Millian, Fern Glass, and Dr. Margaret Baldridge of the University

of Montana. Chamber Orchestra also performed at all three public high schools in Missoula, and Meadow Hill Middle School.

Not only did they perform, but they attended two performances by both the Missoula Community Theatre and the Missoula Symphony. Olson was a part of the ensemble during Missoula Symphony’s performance of “Rite of Spring” and Vivaldi’s “Four Seasons.”

The tour concluded late Saturday evening when the group travelled back to Great Falls, but Jensen says she will never forget the experience.

“It was the best last tour I could have ever had,” she said.

Journalism class offers family-like atmosphere and support The first time I walked into room 326 was the first day of sophomore year. The room was buzzing with laughter and yelling, and I’m pretty sure I remember some miscellaneous object being tossed around the room. It was honestly like walking into the stereotypical High School Musical classroom-all pandemonium and smiles until the bell rang and Ms. Britton stepped to the front of the classroom.

She told us to “let silence descend like a gentle rain” and passed out cute personality quizzes for us to take. We were all laughing and filling out our quizzes, some of us seated around the tables or computers, some of us sitting on counters, and all of us smiling. And that’s the way the rest of the year went, too; we were always getting work done and always smiling and joking while doing it.

Newspaper was where I met my best friend. Without our ad manager, Emily Cappis, our paper wouldn’t exist, and I probably would’ve suffered a trillion more mental breakdowns for various reasons. She’s a saint, the most generous and lovable person you can ever meet, and the most truthful and fiercely protective friend a person can ask for.

This year, our EIC (editor-in-chief) has taught me more about the value of passion and hard work than anyone I’ve ever met. Mackenzie George is an angel, let me tell you.

She’s never rude, never overbearing, and is the most helpful and hardworking individual you can ever come across. She’s probably the most respectable and mature person I’ve had the privilege of meeting.

Next was meeting Clara McClain, the most adorable and quirky little fairy of a human being in the world. Clara knows more about the programs we use in the Stampede than anyone in the world, and whether that stems from prior knowledge or from frustratedly clicking on buttons until it does what she wants, the world may never know. Clara deals with so much on her plate and never complains, and she always supplies kindness and smiles throughout the room.

Every single one of our seniors this year was warm-hearted and fantastic. Not a single one of them ever dropped the ball, created drama, or spread anything but sweetness and giggles throughout our staff. And I know all of this sounds lame and cliche. But the fact is that the newspaper staff is anything but cliche; there’s such a variety of character and personality in the little community we’ve created in room 326 that you’d think we’d clash. Despite this, I can’t remember having ever felt sad or irritated to walk into the room. It’s hard to explain what’s become my little corner of paradise on the third floor until you’ve experienced the quirkiness, the fantastic and

incredible advisor, Miss Britton, and the people that make our paper possible.

This brings me to my next point, and my main grievance.

As we look at applying for editorial positions and sorting out our paper for next year, we look at our incoming staff list as schedules are being sorted out. And as we looked at it this year, we realized that the 2017-2018 school year would be one of the smallest staffs the Stampede has ever had. I know that many people don’t read the newspaper, and that a lot of people don’t understand the work or the astounding environment the journalism department has created; and it’s hard to appreciate something one doesn’t understand.

It’s so sad to me that people haven’t signed up to be a part of the family we’ve created. I’m not going to sit here and try to convince our readers that if you like to write, design, or do photography that they should join; that’s just a fact. And I’m not going to implore people that if you want a place to belong, be acknowledged, and be loved you should join; that’s a more obvious fact.

What I am going to say is thank you to everyone who has made and will continue to make journalism as fun, supportive, and wonderful as it is and will be, no matter the staff size.

Thank you.

S

May 11, 2017 rustlernews.com 19

Entertainment

photo courtesy of Tess Halverson

Where to go and what to see: 406 edition

by Quincy Schmechel, entertainment editor, and Gabrielle Pope, staff writer The Treasure State. Big Sky Country. The 406.

Growing up and living in Montana, it’s sometimes easy to forget that we live in a place surrounded by a unique beauty that many never get the privilege of experiencing. With pressures from all areas of our lives, sometimes it seems to be easier to sit at home on the couch instead of taking advantage of the Montana landscape and the beauty for which it receives its nicknames. But for senior Dalton Sand, remembering to appreciate his home state has never been difficult.

“We are the last best place,” Sand said admiringly.

“Montana is just sick. We are all just little derb worms, livin’ the dream.”

Sand became involved in outdoor hobbies a few years ago, after his friend Trent Cavanaugh showed him some of the fun opportunities available to him.

“I like to fly fish, mountain bike, hike, hammock,” Sand said. “I don’t know -- just chill with my bros in nature.”

Sand says that anymore, he loves to just be outside “boolin’” in nature.

“There is no other place that is like Montana,” Sand said. “You can just step outside and see the front and the Rocky Mountains. It’s sick.”

Freshman Tess Halverson is another avid outdoors adventurer. For Halverson, her passion for the outdoors

took root from a young age while doing activities with her family.

“Well my family is really outdoorsy,” Halverson said.

“Especially my brother and dad, and I’m probably closest to them and they always do it, so I kind of just go with.”

Halverson enjoys fishing, hiking, and photography along with the amazing experience the pursuance of those hobbies has opened up to her. Halverson says that exploring has captured her heart for a long time.

“I really like Yellowstone, and then there’s just some random little places that we will just kind of [find unexpectedly, especially around Lincoln.] One time we found random waterfalls; so sometimes it’s just like driving around and finding cool little places,” Halverson said.

“We just stopped on the side of the road and got out.

There was this giant waterfall and mossy rocks, so we started hiking up through all these trees and waterfalls, and it was like nobody had ever been there, there was no trail or anything,” Halverson said that through experiences like this, she’s learned a lot about appreciating Montana and the outdoors.

“Not a lot of people live here, and there’s a lot of open space and mountains and stuff that haven’t been built on, so I think there’s just a lot of really cool unknown places too,” Halverson said.

Dalton Sand, 12

Tess Halverson, 9

Liam Sexton, 11

Audrey Hamilton, 10

Where are the best places to go? What is there to do?

What to pack?

1. Missouri River

1. bike

1. water/food

2. Glacier National Park

2. fish

2. first aid kit

3. Holland Lake

3. hunt

3. bear spray

4. Sluice Boxes State Park 5. Yellowstone National Park

Tess Halverson, 9

Dalton Sand, 12

4. camp

4. sunscreen/bug spray

5. explore

5. map/compass

S

May 11, 2017 rustlernews.com 20

Entertainment

“13 Reasons Why”

Students discuss conficting opinions on new Netflix favorite

by Lexi Bako, staff wirter In the past month, either on social media or from at teenagers. Explicit scenes in the show make it a friend, you have probably heard about the new dangerous for copycat suicide cases to take place Netflix favorite, “13 Reasons Why.” among the youth.

Social media has especially been covering “There [were] some parts where [they] should the release of the show; advertisements hinted have put some more graphic warnings on the its debut weeks beforehand on Snapchat, and beginning of the show. They probably should have getting through Facebook feed without seeing a “13 on every episode because every episode was pretty Reasons Why” post is rare. triggering,” Quick said. “It’s a learning lesson, it’s Content is key, and when it comes to “13 Reasons true. Everything in the show is true about high Why” the message can be rather controversial. school and even middle school; like suicide is caused Sophomore Miranda Mackenzie has a strong because of what people think and rumors, and it’s opinion opposing the show. a good idea that younger kids under 18 watch this “The thing about “13 Reasons Why” [is that] show.” psychologically, suicide is a personal decision that In the show one of the most controversial scenes a person has to make. A person is the official suicide has to be in a lot of pain to make scene. The scene is raw The thing with bringing that decision, but no one else and uncensored, creating makes you decide to take your awareness is that it should tell the conflict between the fans own life,” Mackenzie said.”All truth, but it shouldn’t be triggering and those who advocate the reasons why she killed to people, it should give information for suicide awareness. herself are other people, and and tell experiences.

“Showing the suicide psychologically it’s a personal overall is bad, especially Miranda Mackenzie decision to take your own life.” if you’re trying to make Mackenzie explains her a show that is trying to distaste for the term “trigger” bring awareness. The and how it has become a joke, but “it’s an absolute one thing you shouldn’t do is show the actual real thing.” suicide; again, it’s just another push,” Mackenzie “If someone was in the position of thinking explains. “The thing with bringing awareness about taking their life, this show shows Hannah as is that it should tell the truth, but it shouldn’t be a hero for taking her life, and that she went down as triggering to people, it should give information and a martyr. That’s not the message you want to give tell experiences.” someone who is considering suicide,” Mackenzie It comes down to what’s more important -- the said. “It’s kind of giving the message that if you do message or the comfort of the viewer. take your life this will be the outcome. It’ll be OK, “Their message was very outspoken. It wasn’t people will regret how they treated me. And that’s sugarcoated at all. When you watch certain TV just not the case.” shows they sugarcoat everything that happens in “13 Reasons Why” has many fans as well. high school, and in this show nothing was,” Quick Sophomore Oceanna Quick has some mixed said. “They finally got a message out to high school opinions when it comes to the show. students that words matter, and words hurt more “I feel like this is a very outspoken message, and than you think they do. It’s not something that I feel like there’s certain things that should’ve been should be taken lightly; it’s something that should watched in this show,” Quick said. be taken to the next level.”

The show was rated TV-MA, but was directed

“

”

by Lexi Bako, staff writer

Through Time

In 1981, MTV broke grounds in the television world, broadcasting their first music video ever, “Video Killed the Radio Star,” by the Buggles.

After years of rock and roll and heavy metal made its way through MTV, shows like “Head Bangers Ball” and “MTV Unplugged” debuted in the late 80’s.

As the 90’s began so did MTV’s television side when they started releasing content like “Beavis and Butthead” in 1993 and Daria in 1997. MTV also became the channel for spring break.

When the 2000’s came into view reality TV came with it. MTV released many series like “Jersey Shore,” “Real World,” and “Pimp My Ride.”

Now, in the past few years MTV’s shows consist of reality TV like “Catfish: The TV Show,” “Ridiculousness,” and “16 and Pregnant,” but still continue the Music Television name with MTV Unplugged and Head Bangers Ball.

S Sports

May 11, 2017 rustlernews.com

21

Player Spotlight

On May 2, the CMR varsity softball team beat the Bison with a final score of 1-0. Sophomore Madison Moore hit the winning point with a homerun. Photos by Julia Gremaux.

Rustlers hit off a successful softball season

AshtonPalen

Sports Editor

by Quincy Schmechel, entertainment editor Having had monumentally successful seasons in the past few years, CMR softball threw no curves as they headed into the 2017 season. Fiercely repping the green and gold, the girls have been unstoppable with a so far undefeated clean sweep.

“The season is going great,” senior Katie Huisman said. “I think this team has clicked since the start of the season, and that’s a great feeling.”

Huisman was a crucial component in taking the Rustlers to state last year, and she hopes for another go-round in 2017.

“As a team, it would be great to get to state and hang another rug,” she said happily about her outlooks on the season.

On a personal level though, Huisman is always focused on her own improvement.

“Personally, I just want to improve my hitting every game and be a supportive teammate throughout the year,” she said.

Huisman’s teammates all seem to share the supportive and optimistic attitude both on and off the field. Senior Savanna Voyles is also looking forward to completing her senior year with the killer team the Rustlers have come to be known as throughout the state. “[We’re all] trying to play our best ball games,” Voyles said. “Especially for us seniors; we only have this year left to accomplish what we want to.”

Voyles, who plays shortstop for the Rustlers and who began playing softball at the age of 8, agrees with Huisman that the Rustler girls seem to have clicked since the beginning of the season and will continue to play strongly throughout.

“We are all hoping for another state championship,” Voyles said.

She expressed great faith in her teammates and said that their strong season is due to a team that really knows what teamwork is all about.

“We could [all] work on communicating throughout the field, [but] as a team I think our greatest strengths are working together and playing great defense,” she said.

Voyles echoes Huisman’s desire for selfimprovement and personal strengthening. “”For myself, I just want to have the best year. As in no errors in defense, and having my stats improve for offense,” she said.

But it’s all more than just the personal stuff to both Voyles and Huisman. In fact, just ask any of the Lady Rustlers.

“Playing our best when the time is right gives you a good outcome-- and that’s what we want,” Voyles said. “But the most fun part is making connections and getting close.”

Name: Brooke Crabtree Grade: Junior Position: pitcher, third baseman, outfield Years Playing: 8 For junior Brooke Crabtree, softball is about a lot more than being out on the diamond or atop the pitcher’s mound.

“You can make a lot of great memories,” Crabtree said about her experience with her sport. Crabtree began playing at the age of 9 and has been in love ever since.

“My favorite part of softball is the bus rides,” Crabtree said. “You’d expect them to be very boring and long, but [it’s different] when you have great teammates.”

What does the future hold for this sports editor?

What does the future hold? I don’t think anyone really knows what their future holds.

I for one have absolutely no clue. But this is nothing new. I have never really thought hard about my future. I never planned my life out.

But that’s what I like about life, its unpredictability. Now that college is just over the horizon, I am forced to think about what I want to do in life. I know that I like to write, I know that I like photography, and I know that I want to travel.

These knowns only have left me with a couple of options, one of them being a flight attendant with a hobby, the other being a travel writer. The sad thing is, that in our society it doesn’t matter what you want if you can’t support yourself. Neither of these professions make a lot of money.

The pressures of family and peers do not. My parents want me to have children, and I want to be able to impress the people I graduate high school with at the reunion.

So neither of these careers seem to be an option for me if I want to live up to society’s standards.

That’s why I came up with this: I don’t care.

I don’t care what someone I haven’t talked to for years thinks about me at some reunion; I don’t care if walking the world seems like a fantasy to everyone else. If I want it, I will make it happen. I may not have children because of it, I may only be able to feed myself, I may not settle down anywhere.

But then again, I really don’t want to settle down in one spot. I want to see the world, its peoples, its cultures. I don’t care if no one reads what I write. I’m not writing for them.

I’m writing to document where I have been and where I have yet to go. I don’t care if my photos don’t sell, or if no one but me sees them.

I am going to be a travel writer. I don’t care to know anything more about my future.

S

May 11, 2017 rustlernews.com

Sports

22

CMR tennis serving up wins

Second-year players soak up knowledge, fun during sophomore season

CMR’s Senior Carter Durnell hits GFH’s Jenson Poirier with a left hook. Photo by Ashton Palen.

Athletes turn heads in the Smoker

by Ashton Palen, sports editor Every year we CMR has intense sports, but one of the most brutal events is the Smoker.

Students from CMR, GFH, Central, and Paris fight for pride and bragging rights. But how do these athletes feel about the pressure put on them by representing CMR in the fights?

The bouts started on April 21, but for the fighters it started much earlier. Sophomore Kai Stewart started to prepare of the Smoker three months before the event.

“I started to train around February 10,” Stewart said.

This was Stewart’s first time participating in the Smoker.

“The first time I stepped into the ring wasn’t an adrenaline rush, like wrestling. It was either be hit or hit him harder, so I guess it was fun,” he said. “Above all I can see myself doing it again.”

Stewart was interested in the Smoker because of his wrestling coach Casey Park.

“One of my coaches knows a bit about boxing, and I wanted to do something different from wrestling, then signups came around and I decided to start training,” Stewart said.

The large crowds were a big plus for Stewart.

“Being at home with a crowd like that, you couldn’t ask for anything better,” he said Stewart was up against Cayden GeeJohnson of Great Falls High. They fought in the 130-pound weight class.

“A lot of people didn’t really think I would do that good,” he said.

But Stewart proved them wrong. He won in the third round with one of the only knockouts of the night.

“I was like ‘haters doubted’” he said about his win.

Stewart is thinking about doing the Smoker next year, and with his state wrestling background he could definitely make for an interesting match.

“It all depends on whether or not I have a wrestling tournament that weekend, with that being said I am definitely planning on it.”

by Jessica Banks, opinion editor Whether it be talent, the desire for exercise or continuing a childhood passion, the reasons students get involved in sports have no bounds. For sophomore Tristan Krum, his interest came from his mother being on the tennis team in high school.

“I was first interested because I knew my mom played in high school, but then I really started liking [it],” Krum said. “We’re always learning something new, and we get to have a blast while doing it.”

This is his second year playing for CMR, and he competes on a varsity doubles team. He has learned he likes playing doubles rather than singles because he enjoys competing with friends.

A typical day at practice for Krum and his teammates includes

running for a few minutes and stretching to warm up their muscles, working on drills, and finally playing matches against each other.

“During practice we play some matches to practice what it would feel like when we play other teams,” Krum said.

Sophomore Madi Hill is another second-year player. Her introduction to the team was a little different than Krum’s.

“At first I was interested in track, but I heard that tennis was a fun sport to play. I had never played tennis before my freshman year, so I decided to give it a try,” Hill said.

She didn’t know anything about tennis when she started as a freshman, but within the first couple of weeks she had the basic skills down.

Competing against Helena High and Butte on April 15 bat Memorial Stadium, sophomore Ana Moody, second from right, runs alongside her teammates. Photo

by Sarah Cherry.

Moody excels in long-distance events

by Aurora Oden, staff writer This season is the first one for sophomore Ana Moody to be part of the track team. Her gym teacher, Mike Henneberg, gave her the suggestion to join the team and she got interested and decided to give it a try.

“It seemed like a fun sport, interacting with each other, just a big team, so it’s pretty cool,” Moody said. She competes in distance running, the 800 and the mile.

“At first it was pretty rough, but like throughout the season you got used to it, going to the meets, got to know the people,” she said.

“It’s real fun.”

She has been going to the meets during the last weeks, and even if it makes her nervous she’s been doing a great job and kept a positive attitude.

“I try to focus on getting in there and just doing my best for the team. Pretty much stay focus. I don’t really give too much attention to people,” she said. “You just gonna put your game face on.”

Moody loves being part of the team because of the people and how encouraging they are to each other.

“It’s exciting cause you’re part of a big group. When you do wrong everybody has your back,” she said. “If you mess up there is someone alway pushing you on, you know keep you going.”

She thinks the practices can be hard but that it’s still worth it and in addition to competing in cross country during the summer she’s planning on continuing with track next year.

“To play tennis, you mostly need to know how to serve, hit a forehand, and hit backhand, but if you don’t know how to do that, you can always learn,” she said.

Hill enjoys playing tennis, but she also really enjoys playing as part of the team.

“The team is great and practice is fun, too,” she said.

“We have a really great team and although I don’t personally know a lot of them, we all get along well.”

Thrower finishing third year on team

by Aurora Oden, staff writer Junior Layne Sundly has enjoyed being a part of the field team for all of his three years at CMR, and he competes in shotput and discus. He chose field instead of track because running kind of annoys him, he said.

“It’s just a more kind of relaxed way to just get outside and have fun and compete,” Sundly said. He started out because he likes the springtime a lot and he wanted an excuse to get outside. He soon realized that he really enjoyed it and decided to keep competing.

Sundly explained that the season is going OK. They’ve been getting better throughout these last weeks, but they’ve also been having a lot of fun which is really important to him.

The hardest part for Sundly about being part of the team is that sometimes you’ll have good days and sometimes bad days.

“Especially in throwing cause if you’re not feeling good you’re not gonna throw it as far during practice, which is discouraging,” he said. “But I think the good days sort of encourage me to keep trying and fight through the hard days.”

Before a meet, Sundly’s just trying to stay warm until his event, making sure to stretch and mentally prepare himself to focus.

“You need to prepare mentally and physically. You can’t [just go in] thinking you’re gonna rock the world because you’re probably not. It’s a completely different sport where you’re kinda on your own, which is why I like track a lot,” he said.

Being around friends, having a common goal and experiencing the same thing together is what he likes the most about being part of the team. He enjoys CMR’s track and field team a lot. Sundly said he thinks other schools are more individualized, where athletes are working on their own.

“That’s completely different at CMR. You feel like you’re a big family and you’re all together trying to compete and be the best as you can be,” Sundly said. “You have a bunch of people around you that are trying to help you and make you better, and it’s just a welcoming place.”

S

May 11, 2017 rustlernews.com

Sports

23

ESPN comes to CMR to tell Ryan Leaf’s story from a different angle

by Ashton Palen, sports editor “We’re looking to cover every chapter of his 1992 was a great year for CMR. It was the year life,” Minton said. “He’s helping people all over the that we took the state championship in football, country.” thanks in part to quarterback Ryan Leaf.

Minton is making a documentary that will be Leaf was the starting quarterback for the Rustlers, airing on ESPN on May 21. and he went on to do some great, and some not so “I think Ryan’s story could be inspirational on a great things. After graduating from CMR, Leaf went level that not many other people can have,” Minton on to play for the Washington State Cougars. said.

He lead the Cougars to the 1998 Rose Bowl, only Minton’s documentary is focused on Leaf’s entire to lose 21-16. During the NFL Draft, the San Diego life, not just his time during and after the NFL. Chargers first pick was Leaf.

“People need to understand where he was, in After playing three seasons for the Chargers, his order to understand where he is now,” he said. contract was dropped and subsequently picked up Minton is working with Leaf in order to spread his by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. But before the start message all over the world. of the season he was dropped. After the Buccaneers “He [Leaf] is honest and candid about his life,” dropped him, the Dallas Cowboys took up his Minton said, adding that he is excited about the contract, but he appeared in only four games before prospect of this documentary. he again was dropped. Leaf ended up retiring from “This [the documentary] has the potential to the NFL at the age of 26. have a big impact.”

After his NFL career, Leaf developed an opioid Leaf appeared on the Ellen Show on Tuesday addiction. Leaf was arrested three times for burglary, March 14 to discuss his work with the Focused theft, and drug charges. But after getting out of Intensity foundation. He raises money for people who prison in 2014, Leaf decided to share his story in need help with paying for rehabilitation treatment.

Cascade County DUI Task Force hopes of steering others away from the mistakes he had made.

Leaf’s life sparked an interest in ESPN producer John Minton III.

ESPN producer John Minton III, above, works with Bryan Brousseau and Jeff Grieshober to shoot a setting shot for the documentary centered around CMR legend Ryan Leaf. Photo

by Julia Gremaux.

Ryan Leaf, left, graduated from CMR in 1994.

Russellog photo.

Name; Julia G

You’re not just hurting yourself...

Montana has been in the top 3 to 5 states Be safe or Be sorry in regards to driving impaired.

your If any change isWhat’s to take place, it mustplan? come from you,. a mental shift to make the change happen.

A message brought to you by the Cascade County DUI Task Force Until then, you will be hearing the same old message to never drive impaired time and time again.

What’s your plan?

S

May 11, 2017 rustlernews.com 24

Back Page

Senior sendoff: what senior year brings

S

enior Sundays. The countdown to the last few days, each one being ticked off on a laughed. “Everyone does. I got it. And it sucks.” calendar that seems ever-looming to graduation. Caps and gowns, the cliche green Jensen, like Bonilla, said that taking the classes you want and having fun is a and gold ‘17 tassel dangling from the rear view year. Camo pants and the promises big part of senior year. of the senior season. College hunts. The promise of the future and what it holds, and the “Take what you want to take,” Jensen advised. A lot of the classes you nervousness that accompanies it. think you’ll need, you don’t necessarily. Go the way we want to go, do Agamenoni Everyone awaits their senior year eagerly, but can one ever really know what to expect? what you want to do, and please spend some time taking care of wasn’t expecting Senior Daniel Bonilla offered up some sage words as the end of his senior year approaches. yourself.” to get the helmet, as “It really is bittersweet,” Bonilla said. “It’s a lot of lasts. But it’s all about the experiences Jensen also advised that following deadlines and the he didn’t think he was you’re having. You have to make the most of it.” application process is incredibly important, but that involved enough.

Bonilla said that as far as school is concerned, he would advise those going into their the most important part is making memories.

“I was surprised since I only senior year to relax and take it easy.

“It’s been a very fun year. Like every went to like six boys games and two “I took a bunch of really challenging classes my junior year,” Bonilla recalled. “It was other year, it has its good and bad. It’s girls games, but every time I was there I worth it, but it also made that year a lot less enjoyable. You should really just focus on the very sad to have a lot of lasts, but was pretty high energy,” Agamenoni said. memories you’re making and enjoying senior year.” it’s very cool to get to be a part He loves being a student leader and keeping Bonilla said that being able to look back at senior year with no regrets is another big of all the new experiences. the school spirit high in the stands. part.

“It was cool to be one of the student leaders of a section,” “You don’t want to get to your senior year and look back, thinking ‘I’ve been here for he said. four years and I don’t remember anything,’” Bonilla said. “Make every last as great as Agamenoni has a choice in mind for the junior who will everything that preceded it.” better,” be getting the spirit helmet from him, but he is keeping it Knowing what you’re leaving behind and hoping for the best as you move forward is the V a n g under wraps to protect the surprise. most important mentality to keep, he said. He said that the other important advice he’d said.

Agamenoni has enjoyed his time wearing the helmet, give to incoming juniors is to get things done quickly to keep “scrambling to a minimum.”

When he was but now it’s time for the junior class to take over from this “Remember all your deadlines, and keep up with them,” Bonilla said. “Get your picked to take over year’s seniors. senior pictures done early, get your applications done, and ask about scholarships the role from Kaydee as early as you can. The faster you get that stuff done, the more time you Smith, Vang looked forward to have to do all the fun stuff and enjoy your last year.” the year ahead and what it would Bonilla said that despite all of this, senior year has been his bring with optimism. favorite yet.

“I was very excited and felt privileged “Everybody just cares less,” Bonilla said. “And that’s the to take on the task and ready to take on the best advice I could give anyone; make it yours. Get challenge,” he said. involved in anything and everything you want. Be Vang loves creating the performances and is looking an active part of your senior class. And, most forward to passing along the duties and the two pairs of importantly, don’t [worry] about everyone drumsticks of drumline captain to the a junior he believes else.”

The deserves it for the 2017-2018 school year.

Senior Kelsay Jensen says that “I’m excited to see the person’s eyes light up and I want student keeping stress to a minimum leaders of the them to know that I saw their hardwork and talent,” he is a big part of senior year. senior class are said.

“Please don’t Vang believes his pick will be able to take care of part of what make get senioritis,” every sporting event his drumline and the talent he saw that he felt wasn’t J e n s e n and pep rally a high energy recognized.

Adam Agamenoni has been the owner of the Spirit and fun experience for the entire Helmet during his senior year, something he sees as quite student body.

Isaiah Vang has been the drum captain the honor.

“It was an honor to keep everyone high energy and for drumline during his senior year.

“I love seeing and having the privilege of starting the cheers, the good ones, in the student section,” working with the drumline and watching them get he said.

s s a

r

io

e

t i r

e

n

w

g

in

s s a

do

th

to

th

cl

n u j

i p s

P

The legacy of the Camo “The camo pants really unite CMR as a school. When we wear them it’s all in support of the same thing: our Rustlers! It’s important to show other schools just how much spirit we have, even if it does mean spending two hours bedazzling the pants!”

- Sydney Dickinson Page by Clara McClain and Quincy Schmechel Top: Photos by Julia Gremaux. Bottom: Photos courtesy of Sydney Dickinson and Sam Workman

Pants

“Ever since freshman year I’ve waited to be a senior so I could get my own pair of camo pants. Seeing something all the senior girls had in common and could bond over while showing school spirit is so exciting. And it’s fun to buy a new pair, but passing them down is a good feeling, knowing that the tradition that has gone on for 20 years is still going strong.

- Sam Workman