CMRStampedeMarch2012

the

stampede

Making the Commitment Teens grow together in long-term relationships

An open forum for student expression

NEWS....................Retirees 2012: Staff member leave their legacy pg. 4 OPINION...................Speaking out: Refocusing the government pg. 9 FEATURES...................Popularity: The truth behind what separates us pg. 14-15 ENTERTAINMENT...................Hunger Games: Movie blows away competition pg. 20 SPORTS...................Recovering from injuries: Rustlers return to the court pg. 27

www.rustlernews.com

c.m. russell high school great falls, mont. march 29, 2012 vol. 47, issue 7

happeningnow

katie hodges

print editor-in-chief

Chasing Sanity

Mar. 29, 2012 The Stampede

02

Janitorial staff seeks information about, laments absence of Fred the cat by alanna whitehorn He is black. He is fluffy. He is spoiled, and he has captured the hearts of the janitorial staff.

Fred, a black cat that settled into life in CMR’s basement, has been missing since March 17, however, and the staff is working hard to find their feline friend.

Fred came to CMR about three years ago in March. Starving and cold, Fred had nowhere to go. The people who took him in were the entire janitorial staff, including Alan Burley, Shelly Rydeen, and Carolyn Lawhon, who takes care of the laundry.

“When we first found Fred, we gave him some leftover hamburger from the kitchen,” Burley said.

Immediately the staff adopted Fred. More importantly, Fred adopted them as his new family.

Everyone pitched in to get Fred his shots and any food or toys that he needed. Fred is part of the janitorial staff at CMR, and his name came from what the staff thought a janitor’s name should be.

“He was also dubbed King Fred, because he runs the place,” Burley said.

“His personality is like all cats, independent. But he is very friendly, inquisitive, loyal, and observant,” Lawhon said. “I liked all

I had a lot of trouble deciding what to write my column about this month.

Kind of pathetic, right? A war, economic crises, AP tests quickly approaching, and a rouge general stealing children, and I don’t have anything to write about?

I sometimes think that that’s the problem, actually. There are just too many things to care about, too many things to do. It’s information overload, and that makes it hard to do anything.

I am known for my ability to “mommy.” I want to fix things, I want to help people. I watched the Kony 2012 video, and I automatically wanted to do something to fix the situation.

Of course, just as soon as I decide to do something, new information comes out about mis-use of funds or hints of neo-colonialism and I wonder if aiding the Invisible Children organization is really the best idea.

And as soon as I decide not to help out the Kony 2012, another organization or topic desperately in need of my attention arises. How can I really dedicate my time to one issue when there are so many out there?

I really want to help. I want to make the world a better place. But I can’t do that until I decide who to help.

Maybe the best thing is to simply forget the idea of helping everyone.

As much as I want to “mommy” and make everything better, I can’t fix the world.

Maybe I can just mommy my small corner of the universe. Maybe I can smile at someone in the halls and check to make sure that people are having good days. It won’t fix the problems of the world, but maybe it can make them a little bit better.

Junior Tanner Gliko performs at the Jan. 6 jazz festival conAnd that’s the best I can do. cert. Gliko and four other students will travel to Washington, D.C. in June. Photo by Beth Britton.

the ways he slept. Sometimes in awkward positions, but he always found a comfortable spot. He has even slept in a coat that was hanging up. He is too adorable.”

With his lovable personality and his observant ways, he loves the attention of anyone willing to give him the time. But with so much to love, he is also protective, Burley said.

“He doesn’t like other animals. He once chased off a stray dog from wandering into the school,” Burley said.

“Fred lifted everyone’s spirits. The teachers would come down to visit him. His personality shows through everything he does. We could never replace him. There isn’t another cat that could take his spot in our hearts.”

If anyone has information about Fred’s whereabouts, contact the main office or Alan Burley at 268-6116.

Band students march toward nationals in Washington, D.C.

by jessica irwin For the second year in a row, junior Tanner Gliko has auditioned his way to the nation’s Capital.

Gliko is one of five band students who will travel to Washington, D.C. June 21-25 for the All National Honor Ensembles.

Gliko will be joined by juniors Devony Smith and Larson Blake, and seniors Taylor Gold and Ryan Murphy. Gliko is a percussionist, Murphy plays the bass clarinet, Smith the clarinet and Gold and Blake are trumpet players.

The rehearsals are held in Baltimore, and the final concert will take place at the Kennedy Center in the Capital.

Students have to audition for a spot at nationals.

“It is my chance to work on my skills , and making a tape is fun because you can see what your mistakes are and fix those mistakes,” he said. “Music is in my blood. It is my passion. I am going to do it for the rest of my life.”

There are many benefits when it comes to traveling to Washington, D.C. “I get to see things I never normally see, and I get to meet people from all over, which is nice,” Gliko said.

Director Russ Kellogg agrees.

“One thing is that they get to meet new kids from around the nation,” Kellogg said.

“The kids get to play in Washington, and while they are there they will get to see what Washington offers.”

CMR has been represented at nationals for the past three years.

“We had three students go to nationals for two years, and this year we have five going,” Kellogg said. “It’s more than any other school.”

Mar. 29, 2012 The Stampede

03

Left: Plucking a string, Dennis Dell plays alongside the string ensemble on March 22. Middle: At home in room 301 for more than 35 years, Marcia Anderson holds a discussion with her AP calculus class on March 22. Photos

by Kelsey Smith. Below: 2012 marks the end of Tom Spencer’s teaching career. Photo by Jake Settera.

replace them,” Kloppel said.

Stacey Bergquist, CMR’s former drama teacher who retired in 2010, worked with Stagecraft teacher Spencer for 23 years and said he’s one of his “best friends.”

“It was exhilarating, it was trying, it was fun, it was one of the best times of my life,” Bergquist said.

“He’s one of the best teachers I’ve ever seen,” he said. “He always expected the best from his students and they often gave him that and more.”

Bergquist said Spencer has had a huge impact on the school and been very involved during his 40-year career.

“I think Mr. Spencer’s contributions to the school are immeasurable. His leadership was felt by everyone,” Bergquist said. “He will be sorely missed. I’m so proud of what he’s given to the community in that career.

“It will be a different place [with him gone] but hopefully it will be put into good hands and we’ll go on.”

Anderson has also greatly contributed to the building during her 39 years at CMR. Math department leader Terri Dahl said working with Anderson for a full 28 years has been “excellent.”

“She’s just a really strong teacher and a very nice colleague to have,” Dahl said. “She’s just very involved in the school.”

By involvement, Dahl means that during her time here Anderson has helped out with Homecoming, the Academic Bowl, several new math curriculum programs,

Lasting Memories Staff shares memories, feelings about retiring colleagues by jennifer verzuh

Principal Dick Kloppel feels like he’s losing more than just employees this spring.

“You’re losing colleagues that you respect and most of them are friends,” Kloppel said.

He’s worked with Tom Spencer, Marcia Anderson, and Dennis Dell since the 70s, he said, adding that they’re “longtime friends.”

Spencer, Anderson, and Dell are three of several teachers retiring this year, leaving big shoes to fill throughout the building.

“Obviously, when you lose someone who’s been here as long as Mr. Spencer you lose two things,” Kloppel said.

“You lose their historical knowledge and then you lose their expertise.”

“You lose an awful lot of history. Their bag of tricks is very full. It’s going to be very hard to find someone to

and chaperoning of events.

“It will just be really different without her around,” she said. “She’s just such a team player; she’s always helping out kids and helping out the math department.”

Her experience is a big part of what makes her such a great teacher, Dahl said.

“Whenever you lose a person who has that much historical knowledge it will be hard to replace them.

Those teachers who have that experience are so valuable in making decisions and making sure we don’t make the same mistakes,” she said.

Band director Russ Kellogg said that not only is experience an important quality but talent is as well, and it’s part of what makes his co-worker Dell such a valuable teacher.

“He has a varied set of skills that will be real hard to duplicate,” Kellogg said. “It will be really different [without him] because no one they get will have the same expertise.”

Kellogg also said that Dell has a real sense of dedication to his students.

“He honestly likes his students. He’s doing it for the students that are in his room, not for himself,” he said.

“He’s just been a good friend and I hope to see him hanging around in the future.”

In addition to Spencer, Dell, and Anderson, school psychologist Deb Louttit, social studies teacher Steve Titcomb, culinary arts teacher Diane Kirol, and High School House teacher Bruce Barta are retiring.

High school house teacher retires after four-wheeling accident by olivia rudio

After transferring from Great Falls High School, High School House teacher Bruce Barta’s teaching career was cut short about a month into the school year. He was injured in a four-wheeling accident shortly after in September. After receiving treatment in Great Falls and Helena, he was flown to Denver, where he received treatment and therapy. He is now at a recovery center in Nebraska. Barta has retired from teaching and will not be returning to High School House next year.

During his short stay at CMR, Barta was already off to quite a start.

In fact, he was working with math teacher Amanda Kohut on a grant that ties math and construction together.

Kohut still attends the meetings by herself with the four other teams in the state. Losing Barta was, “very unfortunate, and everyone in the

grant misses him,” Kohut said.

Barta’s unexpected leave of absence left the High School House program in a scramble. Fortunately, former High School House teacher Tom Maurer, who retired at the end of last year, was willing to teach this year.

“Having Mr. Maurer being able to step in -- we were lucky,” Industrial Technology Department Leader Mark Yaeger said.

In fact, the house will be finished early this year.

Although Barta wasn’t able to teach at CMR any longer than a month, the industrial technology department felt the loss.

“His short stay here really did a lot,” Yaeger said. “He was good at his job and really liked the kids.”

04

Mar. 29, 2012 The Stampede

A Fond Farewell

Staff members prepare for retirement Dennis Dell

by jake settera Having a band room explode under your authority is an adventure most people never get to experience. For retiring music teacher Dennis Dell, this brings back a memory from his 39-year teaching career.

The past 29 years of his life have been spent at CMR, and Dell has taught everything from concert bands, orchestras, and jazz bands, to percussion classes and guitar.

“I have been fortunate to have had some students starting as beginners through high school, and it has always amazed me to see what musical things a young person who works hard can accomplish with help and guidance,” Dell said.

With the impression that Dell has left this school with, retirement will be enjoyable for him.

“I will continue to teach private percussion lessons, play in the Great Falls Symphony, play drum set in local dance bands, sing in my church choir, and conduct my hand bell choir,” he said. Dell said he hopes to get music he has written and arranged over his life published after he retires. The absence of a job in teaching will not hinder Dell’s involvement in music at all.

Activities not involving music will also be prevalent in Dell’s life. He plans to improve gardening skills, lower his golf score and be more involved in outdoor activities such as fishing, camping, and boating.

“Music will always be a part of my life,” Dell said.

Marcia Anderson by kaidin phelan Room 301 has been a home away from home for math teacher Marcia Anderson, but now she is going to have to say goodbye.

Anderson joined the CMR staff in 1973, and after this school year Anderson’s 39- year teaching career comes to an end.

“I enjoyed the kids and my coworkers the most” she said.

She spent almost four decades in room 301, and she has made great memories over the years, including coaching basketball and making friends.

This year she teaches Geometry, Calculus, and Algebra 3, “All of my calculus classes are special,” Anderson said joking with another student.

She said she is excited for the end of the year when she can say goodbye to the school, but before she can do this she has to clean out her room and any hidden treasures that she finds.

“I am most excited about being able to do what I want, when I want, and if I want,” she said.

Steve Titcomb

Deb Louttit

by whisper harris After 32 years working in the school district, 11 of them at CMR, school psychologist Deb Louttit is preparing to say goodbye.

“It’s been a great ride,” she said of her years at CMR. As the school psychologist, Louttit works with kids in crisis, performs psychological testing, and helps students with learning disabilities to understand their disability.

“I have loved it all. I love the variety and the energy the kids bring to the job,” she said.

Louttit wants to do several things in retirement, including volunteering with the Special Olympics, traveling, spending time with family, and catching up on sleep.

“I am just excited for the new adventures,” she said.

Tom Spencer

by kelsey smith Some couples meet at a coffee shop, others though mutual friends, but for Tom and Karen Spencer, it was through working at CMR. Mr. Spencer worked as a Drama Team assistant coach, and Mrs. Spencer served as the speech coach, which coincidentally rode on trips together.

The couple eventually married and had children, who also attended CMR later, making the school a second home and according to Spencer, “an extended Rustler family.”

However, CMR was not always home to Spencer, as he began his teaching career at Paris Gibson Junior High in 1969 when the school was located at what is now Paris Gibson Square, teaching art. In 1977, Spencer transferred to CMR, and has since taught drama, stagecraft, video production, and was at one point the chairperson of the art department.

“Homecomings have always been special and of course there have been 200+ plays and events I have designed and built,” Spencer said of his favorite memories of CMR. Many Rustlers have drooled over the hundreds of pounds of glitter decorating the sets of homecoming, one of his favorite aspects of stage craft.

While Spencer does not have any specific plans for retirement, he said that he plans on reconnecting with his children, family and friends, as well as refocusing on his own art, something he taught for years.

Although many teachers may switch in and out of classes, Spencer has found his niche in the stagecraft realm.

“It’s what brought me over,” he said, “no matter what else I do in the building I’m still in stagecraft, it’s what keeps me here.”

by zach pottratz Social studies teacher Steve Titcomb has considered CMR a second home. But he’s saying goodbye at the end of the year when he retires from teaching.

“The students are the best part,” he said.

Titcomb said he has had wonderful years of teaching here at CMR, but he is looking forward to retirement.

“I’m looking forward to sleeping in every day and spending time with my wife and two daughters,” Titcomb said.

Titcomb has taught only two classes at CMR: U.S. History and Government.

“I’ve taught full-time for about 18 years, part-time for about a year, and I was a sub for a year before that. I’ve taught at CMR the whole time except for when I was a sub,” he said.

Titcomb has found that he finds the kids are the best part of teaching, and that they are what he’ll miss the most.

“It’s good to watch them grow and to see what’s going on in their age and culture.” He said, “I’ll miss my colleagues too, my fellow teachers.”

Diane Kirol by peyton fulbright Even though this is her last year teaching, culinary arts teacher Diane Kirol will never forget how big of a support system students and staff can be.

“In 2007 my husband died in a plane crash. The students were really there for me. They were just really understanding and supportive,” Kirol said.

Kirol is retiring after this school year. She has been working in the building since 2001.

According to Kirol, it was 9/11 and she was driving to Helena when she received a call that the CMR job was open.

She got an interview, and the rest is history.

In addition to culinary arts, Kirol teaches a textiles class.

Although there is a lot to miss when you leave a place that has been a part of your life for a while, Kirol said she will miss the kids and the adult friends she’s made the most.

While she will miss the students, it’s her 7 a.m. classes – her favorite part of the job – that have left an impression.

“The kids are so awake, and they’re usually honor society-type kids. They’re real challenging for me.”

AP classes stack

up

Mar. 29, 2012 The Stampede

Students begin mental, physical preparations as May AP testing weeks approach by meg smith

With 40 days to go until two weeks of AP testing bring stress, advanced placement students around the school are watching their free time fade away.

“Hopefully I can get myself in the zone for test taking,” senior Olivia Moulton said.

As a veteran to AP tests after taking the U.S. American History test her junior year, Moulton has signed up for four exams in macroeconomics, microeconomics, calculus, and government.

“I didn’t want to pay for the credits next year,” Moulton said. “It’s much cheaper this way.”

At $87 per test, many students take advantage of the reduced prices and take college classes in high school.

However, there is some pressure to achieve a three or higher out of a maximum five points as most colleges only accept AP tests as college credit if the student earns a passing three or better.

Moulton said that the major advantage of taking the college-level courses now is creating less stress in the first semester or year of college.

Senior Nick Schulz has also seen the advantages to taking college credit classes in high school and has signed up for the macroeconomics, microeconomics, English literature, and English composition exams.

He also enrolled in the government class but is taking dual credit through the COT. “I’m just going to take it one test at a time,”

05

Schulz said. “I’ll try to maintain my focus as best I can.”

In addition to not letting the exams become too stressful, the honors students have study plans to prepare for the upcoming tests.

Senior Brandon Anderson has been studying his FRQs, or free-response questions, that math teacher Marcia Anderson hands out every Friday as homework.

These FRQs are open-ended calculus questions that the students must respond to in their entirety during the exam.

“The FRQs are helpful because they are directly from old AP tests,” Anderson said. “They show you exactly what you need to know.”

In addition to studying in class, Moulton and Schulz bought the Princeton study review books that are designed to ready students for the exams.

“I have been pacing myself and taking the review reading and practice questions in small chunks so it’s not overwhelming,” Schulz said.

Anderson has adopted a more relaxed approach.

“I’m taking the tests, and if I fail then I fail,” Anderson said. “I’m not going to stress too hard about it.”

Moulton has a game plan of her own for surviving the strenuous two weeks.

“Do your best to know the information, and then relax,” Moulton said. “Don’t try to over-study.”

06

Mar. 29, 2012 The Stampede

A learning experience

Three student teachers call CMR home, reflect on how they got here

Helping sophomores find their teams for a game of field hockey, student teacher Samantha Stevens numbers off the students. Stevens is one of three student teachers this spring. Photo by Alyssa McClain.

by ryan murphy Imagine having to teach the human reproductive system to a class full of complete strangers. For student teacher Samantha Stevens, this uncomfortable thought was an unfortunate reality.

When Stevens, a graduate of Great Falls High School, first came to CMR, the class was being taught by Health and PE teacher Lindsey Graham. However, after a few days of observation, Stevens was handed the reins to the classroom.

Stevens is just one of the three student teachers currently expanding their education at CMR. In the foreign language department, Kristen Zadick teaches four grade levels of Spanish, with Professoras Lorna Nelson and Sara Buley.

Teaching American Government and Essentials of World History with Steve Titcomb and Dennis Mora is Michael Jones.

Even though the three student teachers are all involved in instructing very different subjects and arrived at the point of student teaching at CMR by very different paths, all are inspired to teach and affect the lives of as many students as they can.

“I’ve always enjoyed helping people, and I do a lot of volunteer work,” Stevens said.

History student teacher Michael Jones, from the small town of Power, enjoys what he’s doing now, but his career path wasn’t always quite so cut and dry.

After originally going to school for engineering, Jones

said he realized it wasn’t for him.

So, after opening a time capsule that had been While teaching Spanish 1-2, student teacher Kristen Zadick coverses with a student on March 26. Zadick buried in the eighth grade, is working with teacher Sara Buley and Lorna Nelson. Photo by Jake Settera. in which he had set aside plans to become a history teacher, he decided to pursue history, something he wanted to do since his history teacher that year stirred his interest.

He said he wanted to student teach at CMR because his alma mater was a small K-12 school.

Another inspiration both Jones and Stevens have for teaching is that they both wish to become coaches someday. Stevens wants to coach a softball team somewhere in the future, while Jones expressed interest in coaching several different sports, including basketball and baseball.

Conversely, Kristen Zadick -- also a Great Falls High School graduate -- has no passion for coaching sports or fulfilling the adolescent dream of becoming a teacher.

During first period U.S. government on March 27, student teacher It was another interest that lead her to teaching: world Michael Jones presents notes on voting ballots. Photo by Alyssa travel.

McClain.

When the opportunity to study abroad arose during decided teaching was the way to go. her time as a student at the University of Montana, Zadick Nevertheless, the student teachers aren’t the only ones seized the occasion and never looked back. who are learning.

Upon returning from her time and in Oaxaca, Mexico, “It’s nice to have someone else plan the lessons..

Zadick pondered what to with her future and all of the [and being able to] see the progress from when they first acquired knowledge of the Spanish language, and after start… and ultimately you can learn from each other,” taking a couple of introductory education classes, she Graham said.

It’s Not Too Late...

Come Join the Fun!

-Intro to Journalism -Newspaper -Yearbook 2012-2013 -Online Journalism

Ms. Britton, room 326 *www.rustlernews.com

Mar. 29, 2012 The Stampede

CMR math department to soon adopt Common Core standards

07

Drahos leaves CMR following family tragedy

by whisper harris

Across the Great Falls Public School District, Common Core Standards are going to be adopted sometime in the near future, and the CMR math department is ready for the change.

“Nearly every state has adapted Common Core standards,” Terri Dahl, math department leader said. “That’s what we’re going for.”

The new curriculum will be very similar to the one in place now.

“I don’t think you’re going to see a whole lot of change,” Dahl said.

The differences between the curriculums include more probability and statistics than in the past, certain topics being taught in different courses, and more in-depth work for each subject, Dahl said.

The biggest changes will happen in the kindergarten through eighth grade level.

“At the high school level they will come in better prepared for the future,” she said.

The goal of this new curriculum, according to Dahl, is to “get

by kendra hix

CMR algebra one teacher Steven Skaer explains mathematical concepts on March 23. Photo by Deja Lacey.

students to choose to take more math, not to take the easy classes for credits.”

Other teachers agree that the students will not see much change.

“I don’t think it should affect [classes] a whole lot,” teacher Kerry Zanto said.

The amount of change will depend on what books are chosen.

A prospective look at the curriculum has been placed on the Great Falls Public School website: http://www.gfps.k12.mt.us

ATM machine grabs the attention of students by deja lacey

Travelers who are in need of quick cash when attending a CMR sports tournament no longer have to get lost trying to find an ATM machine.

The Century Gaming Company (CGC) installed an ATM in the Commons on March 6, and it is designed to be used by travelers, parents, students, and staff.

“There is a fee for every charge. Anyone who doesn’t use their local bank wherever their ATM card has come from, there is a $2 charge,” Finance Officer Brenda Huston said.

The school did not pay for the ATM. CGC owns the machine, and the company has been contacted a number of times due to disruptions involving the phone line connections.

Even though the school did not have to pay for the ATM, the phone line that makes

“People from Butte mention that other AA schools have ATMs, and it’s been quite beneficial. If we can just take care of it hopefully it will be around forever,” Huston said.

Although the machine has been in place for less than a month, small problems have already occurred.

“If major problems happen with the ATM and it’s being vandalized, there is a high possibility that it will be removed,” Principal Dick Kloppel said.

Ka-ching! CMR students Jennifer Peer and Tyler Frieling tinker So far the only problems that around with the new ATM machine recently before lunch. have surfaced involve the disconPhoto by Deja Lacey. nection of the phone line and the power cord. the ATM function is the responsibility of “The expectations that we have for any the school.

One requirement of the company was of the items supplied to students is expectthat the ATM had to be placed where it ed to be followed for the ATM,” Kloppel said. would be in the view of cameras.

Have a glorious Prom CMR! Love, Key Club

The City of Great Falls

is accepting applications for the following part-time summer positions:

Bathe Your Own Dog Meet with Key Club in room 325 Tuesdays at 6 p.m.

Grooming by appointment Owner/Operator: Ruth Johns Open Tues.- Sat. 10 a.m.- 6 p.m.

1100 Smelter Ave.

(406) 456-9963

*Lifeguards, *Pool Cleaners, *Cashiers, *Concessions Workers *Camp Counselors *Program Assistants Apply at:

www.greatfallsmt.net, Human Resources Office Civic Center, room 202 455-8545 Open until filled. EOE

It was a split second, a driver fiddling with their radio, that shook up teacher Dawn Drahos’s life.

“The driver looked away for one second,” she said. “One second can turn the lives of so many people upside down.”

Drahos recently resigned from CMR to move to the Midwest and take care of and go through a custody battle for her 9-year-old niece.

“My sister who lived in Iowa was on her way to work and was hit head on by a distracted driver on a state highway.

She was killed instantly and left behind a daughter,” Drahos said.

Drahos dislikes the idea of leaving, but she said she decided she needed to be with her family and keep her niece’s life as stable as possible.

“My plans are to hopefully continue teaching,” she said. “I love my students.

The energy the students have. I’m lucky to teach in an elective where students are excited about their future.”

Drahos is going to miss her Honors human Biology class the most, she said.

“The students in that class are very motivated and challenge me to increase my knowledge,” she said.

She is going to miss the rest of the year with all of her students.

“Each year is a life cycle, and I’ll miss that,” Drahos said. “I won’t get that closure that you get every year.”

Get Your Yearbook!

May

17

opinionvoice it

lindsey buck

Buck Talk news/opinion editor

Mar. 29, 2012 The Stampede

There’s a bunch of adults sitting in a room. Their decision’s, although not their fault, completely terrify me.

They should terrify you also. In fact, they should scare you to the point that you enter that room and fight for what you believe in.

A recent article featured in the Great Falls Tribune talks about the 4 percent budget cut that is being enforced upon the high schools in Great Falls. This budget cut includes about 28 teaching positions and a loss of about $1.7 million.

The school board has proposed cuts in elementary school art programs and sports programs. Most of their decisions will be based off of you, however. The classes with significant numbers of students will most likely be kept, whereas smaller classes may be cut.

I understand that with the need for cuts, there is no way to make everyone happy. The loss of certain classes will infuriate some, and some will be indifferent about it. However, I think it’s sad that no students can be found sitting in that terrifying school board room, fighting for the classes they think should be maintained.

The school board is an educated group of people, but when it comes to CMR, there is no one who knows better what classes deserve to be here than the students. Our opinions come from personal experience and our passions; therefore, we should be at these meetings for the good of our school.

I encourage you to get out there and defend your education. Whether you realize it or not, this will affect you. If you don’t start now, you may find yourself not being able to take the classes that you love and that you enjoy going to each day. Stand up for your passions and your education.

08

Retiring teachers provided quality education, created strong memories, built legacy It’s not a sad farewell, but a time to appreciate and be thankful for those who influenced thousands of lives over the years.

We’d like to thank those who followed their passion to teach, for they have impacted lives of students and colleagues in a way that will not be forgotten.

A majority of the retiring teachers have been at C. M. Russell High School for most of their careers, and it would be a pity to let their dedication slip by without notice or praise.

So we’d like to express our gratitude for all the efforts they have put forth during their years of teaching.

Thank you, Marcia Anderson, for having patience in geometry class.

Thank you, Dennis Dell, for the years of conducting orchestra.

Thank you, Diane Kirol, for teaching us the life skills we need.

Thank you, Deb Louttit, for listening patiently and bringing Chunk to CMR. Thank you, Bruce Barta, for your years of dedication to industrial arts.

Thank you, Steve Titcomb, for making history come alive.

And thank you, Tom Spencer, for creating amazing Homecoming memories.

You have persevered through the

voice

BOX

fights and tears that have brought so many struggles. Your persistence -- and most especially your kindness -- has helped you create memories that will last.

These memorable learning experiences will prove to be a great advantage in our future.

For some teachers this has been like a second home. We can imagine how hard it is for you to go, and we hate to watch you leave.

No matter what experiences retirement brings, you will be greatly missed and always welcome back with open arms.

Don’t be strangers -- come back for Homecoming, athletic events and performances.

With students now moving out into the world, our future is a little more secure because of the teachers that helped us along the way. By giving us a better understanding of academics, the knowledge we have gained gives us a brighter outlook.

While we might not use everything taught in your classes, it’s all worth it because of the skills you taught, ones we can apply to our lives.

Some students will find significance in every lesson you had to offer, and our journey to our respective careers is easier because of you.

The lessons taught in each of these

Charles M. Russell High School: The Stampede The Stampede, published approximately every four weeks, 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. The Stampede accepts letters but limits the length to 200 words. The Stampede reserves the right to edit all letters; anonymous letters are not accepted.

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

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

Art by Corey Allen.

classes is priceless. We may not know this now, but the success we earn will be a direct reflection of the teachers who gave us the knowledge to reach our goals.

So after everything you’ve done at the school our simple thanks could not nearly justify what you deserve.

Enjoy your final days at C.M. Russell High School. You will always be Rustlers.

Thank you.

editor-in-chief kathleen hodges online editor elizabeth stanley visual content editor corey allen design editor meg smith news/opinion editor lindsey buck business manager tayler korb features editor kristi gange sports editor alecks leavey entertainment editor caitlyn aakre adviser beth britton

staff greighsen adams ida andersen peyton fulbright whisper harris kendra hix claire knox deja lacey abby lynes mandi monroe stephanie mouser ryan murphy caroline perkins kaidin phelan zach pottratz olivia rudio jake settera luke sisko keeli telleen jennifer verzuh

228 17th Ave. NW (406) 268-6178 Great Falls, MT 59404 www.rustlernews.com

Mar. 29, 2012 The Stampede

Think Tank

the

09

With election year politics on the rise, students and voters are being bombarded with media messages and biases. But none of the pundits seem to be asking the right questions. This is where CMR students decided to step up and sound off about the issues the government should really be discussing.

Students sound off about what government officials should really be talking about From the ages of 5 to 18, the majority of American youth sit in uncomfortable desks for seven hours a day 180 times a year. This education is virtually “free” to students, unless they are taxpayers. Finding a job after graduation is becoming more and more difficult without going on to get a degree in the university system, and with the increasing cost of attending a post-secondary school not as many people get the chance. The average cost of a public university in the United States averages around $20,000 a year, and is rising. As the price of further education increases, the government has failed to keep up with financial aid in order to help students pay for this education. Without the help of grants and scholarships, it is near impossible for some students to go any further with their education, and they are unable to do what they want to do when older.

As a senior in high school and college coming up rapidly, it is becoming part of my everyday routine to try to figure out how my education is going to get paid for, as it is for thousands of students in our country. We live in a country where the government can spend millions of dollars keeping some of our top criminals being held at Guantanamo Bay living in full luxury, and gives money to researchers to research cow farts but unsuccesfully aids in providing a future for students everywhere. Education is definately an area that the government should spend some more time and money on, and will actually provide some good to the people living in this country.

junior

The government has many problems that it should spend its time working on in this country. One of the ones that I find important is today's education system.

Not only do our public schools not have enough funding to do what they need to teach the next generation, but also our education system is falling behind that of other countries. China has improved their education to the point where they are beating out Americans for high end jobs. The government needs to spend its time on the reform and funding of the American education system.

senior

I think that the main issue which will be discussed by the government is the economy; specifically referring to how to avoid a double recession and how to improve opportunities for future stability. I hope that the tax codes and retirement programs will come under scrutiny as it is likely that our generation will have to pay higher taxes in the future if the system goes forward as is.

Additionally, I’ve read Social Security is unsustainable and that these programs will rob funds from other vital areas of our government such as research and development and defense. I hope that the government doesn’t make our futures more unstable and painful for the sake of votes. After all, it’s an election year!

government will spend its way deeper in our already $15.5 trillion debt.

What I’m saying is the government needs to get out of the economy to fix it. Sounds weird but stick with me here.

If the government didn’t offer subsidies to corn farmers who use their corn for ethanol, corn would be cheaper because the costs of making it for ethanol would be lower to the farmer. If that corn is cheaper, corn feed for ranchers would be less expensive which would then lower their costs. When those costs for the rancher are lower, the price of milk and of beef are also lower.

This also works for other grocery products such as those that use high fructose corn syrup and those that use corn for chips. In addition, if the government didn’t have so many restrictions on businesses then there would

Woody Buck

Matt Hagler

Many issues envelop our government, ranging from war to internal corruption to getting reelected. However, the biggest issue now with our country is fixing the economy. The government uses GDP to measure the country’s wealth. The formula for GDP is GDP = [C]onsumer spending + [G]overnment spending + [I] nvestments + (Net Imports). Or, GDP=C+G+I+(NET). This means in times of recession the government will start spending money to bail out the companies that made the wrong decisions.

They are picking the winners and losers in an economic system based off profit and loss. If this continues then the

senior

Brian Perkins

senior

Ben Gold

In the United States of America, the Federal government is an establishment whose responsibilities are to make laws, enact programs, repeal laws, and a multitude of other tasks that all revolve around making life better for all U. S. citizens. Right?

Maybe? Some of the time? Every once in a while?! The truth is that the Federal Government is an entity shrouded in the interests of a few, not all. The truth in this is not all too difficult to see. When is the last time you lobbied Congress over a spending bill? Have you made any appeals to the Supreme Court lately? The fact of the matter is that not every American has the ability to make their interests and needs known. The problems arise when those who can make their interests known… do so. This usually comes in the form of big businesses spending money to pass a piece of legislation that will benefit them one way or another. To counter this, one might argue that the Federal government legislates all of the time to help us. However, it is difficult to see any improvement caused by legislation when the economy keeps plummeting downwards into our own demise. What citizens need to do is find a way to keep bureaucrats from destroying our country through extensive legislation and unnecessary spending. The monstrous nature of this task is so great, however, that it is all but impossible to tackle. Americans will find greener fields only when corruption ends and the individual has the tools necessary to build a beautiful life of prosperity, safety, and happiness. The reason not all of us have a good hold of these gifts is that the federal government has many of our tools caught up or lost in legislation and control.

Mandi Engen

senior

be more Bill Gates helping the citizens of America. One of the biggest restrictions that hurts our economy is the minimum wage but that is an article for a different time.

Don’t get me wrong, there are many good regulations from the government. The ones that are good are ones that eliminate third party costs or protect consumers.

These include health codes, false advertising laws, and cigarette taxes.

If we observe Hong Kong, their economy is in great condition because they have very little government regulation for business.

Our government has a long way to go to fix our problems and with the methods prescribed here, we can do it, but we need our elected officials to man (or woman) up and start making our economy one that we can be proud of.

EPIC

kristi gange

features editor

It’s supposed to be

It’s happening.

I have caught the disease.

I’ve been trying to fight it, but the sickness has taken all of my ambitions and motivation.

My only hope for survival is the treatment that comes in the form of summer vacation.

It’s a dosage that must be taken over the course of three months and has had a high success rate for serious cases of Senioritis like mine.

Now that I think about it, I might have always had Senioritis.

It was probably just lying dormant for a couple of years until the shock of leaving high school really hit me.

And it has.

Like a half-ton truck.

So here I am, waiting for an elusive tomorrow that never comes to do my assignments and napping far too much.

One cure I recommend for patients in my situation is planning something you’re excited for after graduation.

Whether it’s a cross-country road trip to a music festival, or purchasing matching towels and tubs for your dorm room, find something to anticipate.

Make your own motivation, or trust me when I tell you, you will not be one of the success stories.

I’ve found my motivation and it’s in the form of Bonnaroo.

A week full of new places to discover and adventures to experience.

Because of this, I unwillingly roll myself out of bed every morning in hopes that my summer will come sooner.

I’ve filled my prescription and now I just have to wait for my cure.

featuring...

Mar. 29, 2012 The Stampede

10

Getting friendly with the facts of life

Health 3-4 classes initiate annual unit on sexual education “The best part is watching their facHealth 3-4 teacher Lindsey Graham es. They think they are so knowledgelearned through her teaching experience that able, then the light goes off. I just hope the wording of an awkward subject makes a it protects them,” Ferderer said. world of difference.

Everyone who has taken Ferderer’s “I just wanted to use correct terminology class, including sophomore Joe Serido, and be politically correct,” Graham said. agrees that she is definitely very open For the last six years that Graham has about sex ed. taught health at CMR, the curriculum has in“The way she presents is makes it cluded a subject that makes the masses turn more understandable, it’s not all by the pink with embarbook,” Serido said. rassment: sexual Ferderer said education.

“They think they are that being open According to it comes to so knowledgable, then when Graham, one of teaching about sex the hardest parts wasn’t ever difficult; the light goes off.” of teaching sex it was easy from the Amanda Ferderer ed is how to go beginning. about verbalizing “I knew I was going to be teaching certain topics. The program is abstinence- it going in; I always knew, so I was OK. based, placing a huge importance on refrain- I was already prepared,” she said. ing from using any word choices that imply According to Ferderer, the combior seem to encourage engaging in sexual ac- nation of being open and using humor tivity. makes it a less embarrassing subject for Overall, Graham thinks that it’s a pretty the students. easy topic to teach.

“I’m very open, I don’t get embar“It’s like any other chapter. It takes the rassed. I appreciate humor, so I try to same preparation. It’s just a body system; use appropriate humor to lighten the you just have to know how to handle the tone. It makes for a fun environment.”

Jotting on the board, sophomore Joe Serido analyzes his kids,” Graham said. work. Photo by Jake Settera.

Sharing a similar outlook is fellow health 3-4 teacher Gary Lowry. In the 20 years that Lowry has been responsible for teaching sex ed, he’s found that most kids are mature and respectful when it comes to handling the details.

According to Lowry, the hardest part about teaching the “birds and the bees” has nothing to do with embarrassing moments.

“I don’t like STD’s. It’s so commonplace for young people now. The kids have either had them or known someone who does. It’s sad when you hear how many have caught the diseases,” Lowry said.

Starting out, Graham felt perfectly fine, but Lowry was a little more cautious.

“You’re always a little hesitant going in,” Lowry said.

Although it can be difficult teaching such a difficult subject, both teachers agree that the best part is the kids.

“I enjoy it because most of the kids are really interested in it,” Graham said.

Agreeing with her is fellow teacher Amanda Ferderer, who thinks the way the Watching closely, a skeleton bystander looks over the students’ work on the board. Photo by Jake Settera. kids act is the best part. by peyton fulbright

breaking a horse

Mar. 29, 2012 The Stampede

11

coaching learning to knit learning to play piano writing a novel

interning running a half

blogging

counseling marathon building a kayak children hosting radio

helping on a mission trip

designing a dress dancing organizing

a basketball writing a script Spearheading senior projects tournament making a movie Students explore new enterprises Focusing on a speaker, Mrs. McGraw’s sixth period senior project class discusses Things Fall Apart.

Photo by Keeli Telleen.

in final year of high school by keeli telleen

If you hear Cecily Meade talking about breaking a kitty, don’t fret. No newborn felines are being harmed.

As part of her senior project, Meade is training a young colt named Kitty.

“I’ve loved horses since I was little,” she said. “Breaking one seemed like a difficult task but I wanted to take it on.”

Meade has been working with her mentor in Fairfield, typically three times a week, to work Kitty up to accepting a bridle and a saddle.

“At first I was just working to refine my own skills [with horses]” she said.

But most recently Meade’s task has been teaching her colt how to walk.

“They don’t know what to do when they have a rope tugging on them, but they have to learn.”

While Meade selected her project based on something she already loved and was familiar with, Chris Gray was simply looking for a new hobby. He is currently in the process of building a kayak in his basement, a task he has enjoyed so far.

“It’s going to be 16’9” long,” he said.

“My mentor has been building alongside me, and as long as you have help really anyone can do it.”

Gray says the materials have been expensive, but the building is going well.

modeling

His undertaking even sparked curiosity elsewhere.

“I got my dad interested, too,” Gray said, mentioning that his father wants to do some building of his own.

Some students place a career focus on their senior projects. Lenaya Jung is using her senior project as an opportunity to determine if she wants to pursue an occupation in sociology.

“I’m interested in the way children cope with issues,” she said.

Jung is going to help teach a counseling group of kids with parents who had alcohol or other drug addictions. She is looking at starting that leg of her project soon, but she has already volunteered at a children’s camp.

“Camp Francis was for kids who lost family or someone close to them, and we did activities that were fun but also [had the children] discuss how they feel and how to get over it.”

Overall, most students find the class provides rewarding experiences. The class pushes students to investigate and develop new skills.

“I definitely recommend it to younger folk,” Meade said. “I’ve liked learning something new gradually, plus [Kitty] is adorable.”

Showing off his work in progress, Chris Gray stands between his own construction (on the left) and his mentor’s (right). Photo by Kelsey Smith.

12

Mar. 29, 2012 The Stampede

>

One Direction

by kristi gange Four friends. One obsession. One Direction.

It’s a love affair that started with a British invasion boy band and resulted in a resilient friendship between Danielle Ross, Samantha riFans of the band rejoiced at the Ame Sundly, Amanda Tripp, and Devony Smith. m. can release of One Direction’s albu While a good number of CMR students will be spending hours planning to attend prom tomorrow, these four juniors have a different plan.

“We’re going to be watching One Direction on the Kid’s Choice Awards,” Tripp said.

Although other students may consider themselves fans of this band, their admiration is mild compared to these self-titled “Directioners.”

The“Directioners” baked cup cakes When the band’s first album was released and listened to the band to celebrate in America, the four ran through Wal-Mart to Tripp’s birthday. buy the CD. Even though they had already downloaded all of the songs from the album, it was the tangibility of the CD that meant the most.

“We went home and read through the lyrics,” Tripp said.

The album came with five trading cards dedicated to each band member that the girls represent- keep in their wallets.

All four girls sport bracelets In addition to their trading cards, these d. ban the of ber h mem

prom

the procrastinator’s last-minute prom guide

Directioners crafted homemade memorabilia to honor the band, including T-shirts, 24 cupcakes to celebrate Tripp’s birthday, and bracelets made

by Sundly.

Their fixation got so serious that Ross’ parents had to intervene.

“My mom gave me an intervention last week and so now I’m a closet Directioner,” she said.

While they may not be attending prom, these four are certain that they won’t be missing anything.

“We would’ve just gone to prom together and talked about One Direction,” Smith said.

“We have more fun with dance parties in my basement,” Sundly said. “We’re going to have better music.”

The success of the band has become so apparent in the United States that One Direction recently announced their 20-city summer tour that the girls will be attending. As the band begins their ascent to stardom, the Directioners said they are anticipating only the best for these five.

“We’re not at all mad about them being massive,” Smith said. “They’re amazing people and they deserve everything.”

No prom?

No “prom”blem!

ing eac

by kristi gange Prom is one of the most memorable nights in the career of a high school student. But students don’t have to attend one to make this true.

Prom isn’t for everyone, and students who choose not to go don’t have to be a prisoner to a boring night in front of the television.

If you’re not going but still want to make the night unforgettable, do something different and exciting.

The first thing you could try is an “anti-prom.”

Find some of your friends who also aren’t attending prom and have them over to your house to celebrate.

Have them wear jeans and

T-shirts and serve cheese dip and cantaloupe. You can still dance and have a good time, but you don’t have to worry about spilling on your uncomfortable rented tux or $300 dress.

And you can be your own deejay, so there will be no lulls in your marathon of fun. By the end of the night the venue doesn’t matter and you’ve still experienced a party that’s more to your liking.

If you’re trying to escape the whole idea of a dance altogether, try a night out on the town.

Wrangle your best friends and prepare to paint the town red. Drive around with your favorite songs blaring (but not at an offensive volume) and experience the town

the way you never have before.

Have dinner at a restaurant you’ve never tried, or try something really crazy and mix together two different flavors of slushies at the gas station.

If all else fails, initiate a movie night. Choose any genre you desire but be sure to stock up on snacks and drinks.

The point is that you don’t have to attend prom and spend a copious amount of money to create a night you won’t forget.

So don’t just stay home and go to sleep at a reasonable hour if you’re not attending prom.

Get out and experience something new.

Prom is tomorrow. With that in mind, here are a few tricks to help your magic night go off without a hitch:

• Getting ready

Ladies, tonight is not the night to experiment with self-tanning, new hair colors, or different exfoliation. Stick with your routine beauty regimen and deal with the fact that if you neglected to hit the tanning beds, you may appear pale.

Haven’t you heard? Vampires are in.

Gentlemen, tonight is not the night to expose your inner daredevil. Casts don’t match prom dresses.

• What to pack

Tide-to-Go. Cell phone, with recently added cab company phone number, better safe than sorry. Car keys. Comfortable flats for when your adorable heels turn into a bad blister. Gum/breath mints for when friendly becomes friendlier.

Dolla dolla bill y’all -- to pay for that cab you might end up needing.

• Prom etiquette

Unless you’re planning on toting your own bib or an extra prom outfit to dinner, try to keep your dinner in your mouth and off of your expensive getup. Don’t abandon your date halfway through the dance. If you’re going to look sophisticated, act like it. Smile for the pictures. While they may be cheesy, they’ll please your mother and your 30-year-old self.

• A classy night This is a night to remember. Don’t be “that guy” who stands in the corner mocking the prom-goers with pretenious hostility. Keep it classy, CMR.

Mar. 29, 2012 The Stampede

Designing a home

13

Interior design students get opportunity to create inside of 2012 High School House by claire knox

The walls go up. The roof goes on. Slowly but surely, the monumental project that is the High School House begins to take shape. Once the outside is done, the inside must soon follow.

Interior design teacher Danielle Stark leads her students on the path to designing the interior appearance of the house.

The students create design boards with their choice of finishes, flooring, countertops, paint, and other details, which are then presented to the Neighborworks board and voted on. Neighborworks is a non-profit organization that works to create affordable living situations for hard working families. They work together with both CMR and Great Falls High to build the High School Houses.

The board with the most votes determines the look of the house.

According to Stark, a winning design board is a combination of good color choice and presentation.

In choosing the design, many things must be taken into consideration.

“You want to make sure that you’re picking something that will appeal to the greatest number of potential buyers,” Stark said. “The design can’t be too trendy or too outrageous, or else no one will want to live in the house.”

“Even if your colors are great, they won’t go for a messy board,” she said.

The student winner of this year’s design, Madi Rembe, agrees.

“I just tried to keep it simple and use neutral, common colors,” Rembe said. “When I found out that I won, it was really exiting. I’ve never really done any designing before, so for me to be picked was really cool.”

A lot of work went into creating the design board.

“We went on field trips to places like Pro-Build to pick out paint samples and linoleum and carpet,” Rembe said. “We tried to center the design around the cabinets, since they already had those.”

The designs do have limiting factors, however.

The dress is ready...

The tux is rented...

Reservations are made...

Pondering the best color choices, junior Madi Rembe works to create the winning design board for the interior of High School House. Photo by Pat O’Connell.

“One major limitation is our budget,” Stark said. For example, this year the students did not get to pick the cabinets for the house because they had already been purchased for a good deal.

Once a winning design has been chosen, the students help bring it to life.

In the last part of March, the interior design students helped paint the accent walls and do the trim. Stark said that the students all really enjoy this project.

“It gives them a lot of exposure to the real world,” she said.

All of the students in the class are interested in design, either as a potential job or just as a personal hobby. The chance to design a real house gives them an opportunity to see how their classwork applies in real life.

“They get to go around and figure out the budget and the colors and all the details by themselves. It’s a very real experience,” Stark said.

With the project about to come to an end, Stark said she is pleased how everything has gone so far.

“It’s just a really fun class and a great opportunity.”

Are You... Facing an Unplanned Pregnancy

Considering an abortion?

Wondering where to go from here?

Don’t ruin your night...

Don’t drink underage and never drive impaired.

Visit us on Facebook!

A message brought to you by the Cascade County DUI Task Force

The choices are yours.

Choose to know.

-Abortion information -Crisis pregnancy support -Pregnancy testing -All services free and confidential Echoz Pregnancy Care Center...

Formerly Life Way Pregnancy Services At a new location... 3226 10th Ave S 406-727-1850 New Hours Starting April 16 Mon-Thurs 11 a.m. - 6 p.m. Fri 11 a.m. - 4 p.m.

Mar. 29, 2012 The Stampede

July wedding to be center of summer

by jake settera The act of a proposal is not a common occurrence in one’s high school years. Long-term relationships in my opinion are the only way to go. I’m not a fan of flaunting myself towards countless partners and waiting for “The One.” As a personal philosophy, it only makes sense to me to date with the sole purpose of ending the relationship with the commitment of marriage. Relationships are a good thing when used with good intentions. Too many high school students view a “relationship” as nothing more than a month-long, lust-filled excursion to be followed by another and another.

2.25 years later, I couldn’t be more satisfied with my relationship. This last December I did pop the question. I made the pre-commitment to spend the rest of my life with Kellie Jo Hartman. There isn’t a better feeling than knowing that you have something as great as love.

The thing is, in short-term flings you never build up anything in the relationship. Well, maybe stress, but never anything amazing. When you spend a long time with one person, you develop something; it’s a combination of trust, communication, respect, accountability, and responsibility. The final result?

Love.

There need to be boundaries in every relationship. Whether or not it’s long term or just a fling, both participants need to mutually agree on certain things that occur during the relationship. Depending on the relationship this can qualify as holding hands all the way up to sex.

My significant other and I have both made a commitment to God and to ourselves to refrain from sexual relations until marriage. With the pressures of our society it hasn’t been the easiest adventure, but I assure you it is entirely possible. We view it as an investment because it will be something only the two of us have ever experienced together.

An easier way for me to think about it is with cars. Rich or poor, everybody wants a nice first car. You’d be crazy to say you want a junker for your first car.

So when you’re talking sexual partners, do you want that brand new Corvette, or the 70s Oldsmobile that’s had six different owners and has been all used up.

When I get married I’m going to be satisfied knowing that she will be the only person I will ever have sex with, and vice versa.

What a day it will be, come July, when my long-term relationship ends, and my long-term marriage begins.

by caitlyn aakre Two pieces of pizza, eight dollars. One cup of soda, two dollars.

A relationship that has lasted four years and five months? Priceless.

Seniors Taylor Gold and Olivia Moulton are just one of the several couples at CMR who have managed to stay in a long term relationship. They have done so, they say, because of their friendship.

“He is my best friend and most loyal friend,” Moulton said. “He knows more about me than anyone else does.”

Although her reasoning for their relationship seems textbookstyle, his is more unconventional.

“I use her locker because I can’t remember the combo to mine,” he said. “She gets me a discount to McDonald’s.”

Sarcastic answers aside, it is obvious that these two are in love. For the lunchtime interview, Moulton’s beau purchased pizza and they ate alongside each other.

Gold was worrying about finishing his lunch. Moulton told him, “you can eat in Bio,” to which his response was, “I don’t know if I want to eat in the same room I’ve dissected a sheep in.”

Their sense of humor is a definite part of who they are, yet when

the future is mentioned, they both get serious.

“Maintaining a long-distance relationship could be a lot of work,” Gold said. Gold is attending Montana State University in the fall whereas Moulton is going to be a UM Grizzly. The two have decided to end their relationship upon starting college.

“It was two years ago [that we decided to split]. I wasn’t okay with it at first,” Moulton said. Although she was shaky about the idea at first, she grew to be okay with it.

“I decided it’d be a good thing,” she said. They are hoping to branch out and meet new people, and not feel as if they are attached to one person all through college.

Many could say their expiration date is strange, but the two never claimed to be normal. The two happen to have a mostly same schedule, with six of their seven classes together. Gold once rode his bike from Fox Farm to Moulton’s house in Sun Prairie “because [she] begged him to.”

No relationship story would be complete without how the two met. They met in eighth

grade art class at North.

Classmates Leisha Michelson and Robert Boyle played as matchmakers, each going behind their friend’s back and asking out the other. At lunch time, Moulton asked Gold, “are we dating,” to which he replied, “I guess.”

A simple start to a complex relationship.

era photo by Jake Sett

Longtime Lovin’

16

Seven seniors share love stories, future plans

by caitlyn aakre They started as trumpet rivals in middle school band. Over time, they became friends in Shane Maurer’s health class and by sophomore year, they were dating. They are self-described “polar opposites.”

“I’m a very serious person and he’s not,” senior Ashley Spragg said, “he’s quiet and I’m not.”

Spragg and her boyfriend, Austin Fisher, have been together since Sept. 25, 2009 since their sophomore homecoming dance, when Fisher asked her to be his girlfriend.

“She wasn’t like the normal girls at CMR,” he said.

“I said yes right away,” she said. Although the two claim to be very different, when they described each other, they used the same adjectives.

“He’s nice, caring. He likes me for me. He doesn’t judge,” Spragg said. “[She is] not self-centered. She’s also nice. She’s also caring,” Fisher said.

The two have lunch together every day, but do not share any classes. And unlike Moulton and Gold, and Toner and Black, the couple are not going their separate directions after high school.

“We’re both going to the COT,” she said.

They don’t plan to live in the same quarters, however. “[We will] not be living together,” she said, “yet.”

Check out what other Stampede seniors have to say about their long-term relationships on our website, www.RustlerNews.com.

by caitlyn aakre Parking garages are for parking cars.

Senior couple Abbie Black and Cody Toner prefer to do other things.

“We made a snowman on top of a parking garage,” Black said, “his name is Franklin.”

“We’re just goofy, we’re just not a serious couple,” Toner said.

The two have been dating since sophomore year, but met in Paula Olson’s freshman health class.

“We didn’t think we’d be together this long,” Toner said. Despite their initial thoughts, the two are now very happy.

“We’re together frequently, there’s never a dull moment,” Black said. The two enjoy outdoor activities together including bird hunting and fishing. Although they spend a lot of time together, they say the key to a great relationship is to be friends with a partner’s friends.

As for the future, the couple will be in two different places come September.

“I’m going to college here,” Toner said. His girlfriend, however, is attending Montana Tech in Butte to study nursing.

“I’m just gonna come home a bunch,” Black said for her plans for the coming years. She also suggested using Skype, the popular web calling program.

After they discuss the future, it’s important to remember why they got together in the first place.

“He had a doberman named Alli,” Black said. Toner believes there’s another reason.

“She fell for my mom’s cookies,” he said.

Mar. 29, 2012 The Stampede

17

Far Left: Her two daughters walking down the railroad tracks is the subject of this photo by med prep teacher Christi Virts. Bottom Left: A wooden fishing boat built by English teacher Scott Clapp. Clapp likes to devote time to blacksmithing and other building activities.Top: Just a sample of the firearms Clapp had created.Photos courtesy of Christi Virts and Scott Clapp.

What teachers do when we’re not looking Staff members tell about their varying activities outside of school by zach pottratz

Being a “dude” and being spotted by your friend’s mom in Victoria’s Secret is awkward enough. But when you’re a high school teacher and some of your students spot you when you’re buying things for your wife, it can get pretty weird, or at least that’s what English teacher Jeremy Comstock discovered.

“Earlier in the year, I was at Victoria’s Secret buying something for my wife, and I saw some students there.

It was really awkward,” Comstock said.

When Comstock isn’t at school, he finds himself devoting his time to different activities out of school.

“I like to play poker. I play with some of my friends here in town; other times I play online,” he said. “About twice a year I go down to Las Vegas to play poker for about two or three days.”

In addition to poker, Comstock spends time reading, writing, and cooking. He plays in the Central Christian Church’s band on Wednesday nights. In the summer he likes to go outdoors to hike and canoe.

Much like Comstock, fellow English teacher Scott Clapp shares a love of the outdoors.

“I like to hunt and fish. I fly fish for trout, and I have a Walleye boat. I fish about every weekend. In the summer I go about three times a week, and in the winter I play a lot of video games,” he said.

Clapp doesn’t watch that much television, he said, but he and his wife like to spend time playing games such as Call of Duty, Mass Effect 3, Assassin’s Creed, and Borderlands. He said he’s not a big role playing game player, because he doesn’t like to wait his turn to be able to play.

Many teachers like to spend time with past students who have graduated, and Clapp has shared some interesting adventures with them.

“I had some students that were interested in history, so we went

to a reenactment site and we got to mess around in the tee-pee and play with the different guns. It was really fun,” Clapp said.

Clapp said that he has an additional hobby that is uncommon: blacksmithing.

“I make replica firearms, like Tennessee long rifles and squirrel rifles. I also make my own knives and tomahawks. I haven’t made that much in the past five years; I’ve been working on my master’s degree,” he said.

Clapp also has written a “how-to guide for teachers” they shouldn’t worry about losing their jobs, and to just keep going. He is currently writing a novel.

“It’s like a cross between a Tom Clancy novel and a Tim Lahaye novel. The protagonist has to solve a problem before the end of the world while defeating an anti-Christ figure,” he said.

Like Comstock and Clapp, med prep teacher Christi Virts devotes her time to an assortment of activities.

“When I’m not in school, I like to hang out with my kids. I have two daughters,” she said.

Virts also said she’s had some moments where she’s seen sides of students she wishes she hadn’t.

“I chaperoned Morp once. It was devastating,” Virts said.

It’s not unlikely that teachers pick up some of their daily habits from coming to school every day during the year, but Virts picked up some odd traits.

“I get up early every morning, but mostly because I have kids,” she said. “I also talk to them like a teacher.”

Virts pushes one of her interests after school by looking through the camera lens.

“I like to do photography. I specifically like to take pictures of kids, namely my own kids, but I do other peoples kids, too,” she said.

“There’s something about teaching.” Clapp said, “This is my 15th year; it becomes part of who you are.”

18

Mar. 29, 2012 The Stampede

Flying under the radar Staff members work hard behind the scenes sharp to remember to ring the by ida andersen In a school with roughly 1,400 bell.

Except from three bells students, a staff consisting of only the people most students interact already set on the computer, with on a daily basis would be it’s Thompson’s responsibility to make sure to give students a rather dysfunctional.

Even though students might reminder that it is time to get in not recognize all of the staff or out of class. She once got so members, there are dozens of caught up in other responsibilities them that together keep the that she forgot to ring the bell, but these are just small incidents she school running every day.

If you or your parents have and her co-workers can laugh off.

One of those co-workers is ever called the school to leave a message, ask any questions, counselor Patti Ashmore.

After graduating from CMR or express any concerns, office assistant Dawn Thompson might in 1970, being in a profession where she be the could be friendly “We work with the able to just voice you hearts of the students listen was a have been natural talking to. so they can do the head fairly choice for When work of academics.” Ashmore. walking “It has a into the Patti Ashmore lot to do with main office, personality. her face will be one of the first you will I’m the kind of person that people meet, and she will assist you with always would come to,” she said.

This year, Ashmore is in her any questions.

Along with the other people 13th year in the counseling center.

Prior to this career, she in the main office, Thompson works to keep the school running. worked as a teacher in an “Everybody pulls their own elementary school and with weight. We all work together to special education students at a get things done,” Thompson said. middle school.

These experiences have been Office assistant Jennifer helpful to give her a broader Thomas agrees.

“We all have our own roles, perspective of understanding as but we recognize that we are a a counselor, she said.

What most students might team, and we help out where it is not be aware of is all the help the needed,” she said.

On special bell days, such as counselors can provide when PLCTs, early outs and scheduling someone is going through a days, Thompson and the other personal crisis.

Whether it is issues with office assistants have to stay

friends, family, a boyfriend or girlfriend, or a tragedy that affects an entire community, one of the counselors is always available for support. As a member of the district crisis team, Ashmore is prepared to assist grieving students.

At CMR, care groups and grief groups are offered to help students deal with issues in life in order to be ready to learn again. “[We have to] make students realize that those things are normal, and that they will get over it,” she said. “We work with the hearts of the students so they can do the head work of academics” Ashmore and the other counselors -Earlene Ostberg, Julie Graham, Brenda Lowry, and Jacie Schoenen -- also work Top photo: Patti Ashmore organizes scholarship applications for seniors and sends actively to lower the them off to different committees. Lower left photo: Jennifer Thomas works at the front percentage of dropouts at desk and is an office assistant. Lower right photo: Head engineer Alan Burley unloads CMR. boxes of candy for a fundraiser. Photo by Ida Andersen.

Freshmen are informed “It can take me about two depart, the afternoon engineers about careers, juniors have the to three hours to clean up the come in and clean up the hallways opportunity to do job shadows, snow,” he said. and classrooms after another day and seniors are assisted Other than keeping the of school. with college and scholarship building warm and making The faculty work their hardest information and applications. sure that students and teachers to make the school a good place When the students start don’t have to wade through the to learn. entering the school around 7:30 snow, his main responsibility “I hope that I make people a.m., lead engineer Alan Burley is to keep the school clean, help comfortable,” Thomas said. has already been doing his duties out organizing things for the “I care for the students. I cant for two hours. administration and make sure imagine being in a job without At this time of year, regulating the classrooms have enough air kids.” the heat in the building and in the summer. cleaning up the snow are the key Shortly after the bell rings missions. at 3:15 p.m. and all the students

Mar. 29, 2012 The Stampede

The

19

Stork has arrived

Teachers face challenges when parenthood, teaching duties go hand in hand

Counselor Jacie Schoenen’s newest addition to her family, Parker, poses for the camera. Parker weighed 5 pounds, 8 ounces and was 19 inches long. Photo by Kelsey Smith.

by practicing leaving her son, Turner, home Grading essays and completing lesson with his grandparents for a few hours. plans is tough enough, but try adding in a Practicing similar tactics, both Hogan and hefty dose of morning sickness.

Petzold left their child home with grandparThat’s exactly what English teacher ents, while they were at work.

Tammy Petzold, who is pregnant with her “I am very nervous [about leaving him],” second child, has dealt with this year. said Schoenen, who gave birth to her first “I got very sick and was very sensi- child, Parker, on January 28. tive to smells,” Petzold said.

After being gone on maternity leave, She is just one of many teachers at Schoenen is preparing to return back to school CMR who is experiencing the challenges the beginning of fourth quarter. that balancing parenthood and a proReturning to school is no easy task, fessional life bring. Whether it is being especially if it’s the beginning of the year. pregnant or handling the demands Coming back from a long summer, Hogan of being a parent, the returned two weeks after the teachers go through new school year started. similar challenges The students were unFirst baby to Jon and Erica Davis, Turner, when faced with trusting with several different had one of many photos taken of him at the demands of a subs, Hogan said. It was hard four months of age. Photo by Erica Davis. family life and a the first few weeks getting to professional life. know the students and their “There are names, she said. a lot of challengAfter returning to school, es,” Petzold said. teachers often realize how For Petzold, The second child to Danielle Hogan, hard it is to manage family Petzold the smell of Audrey, plays on a baby rocking chair life and school life.

First child, Nora, had a yelBBQ could be at only 2 weeks old. Photo by Danielle “It was an adjustment. low and rasberry pink room enough to keep Hogan.

I just had to make really good with ladybugs h e r home for the use of my time,” Davis said.

Expected child, a girl, is going day, the same holds true for French teacher Prep periods start to become really valuable. to have a purple and green room Erica Davis, who got sensitive to the smells “Part of being a teacher is a lot of time; with owls. of raw meat and coffee. On the other hand, part of being a dad is a lot of time,” Jon Davis Hogan for English teacher Danielle Hogan and said First child, Evan, had a Jungle counselor Jacie Schoenen, who both recently For both mothers and fathers, bringing animal theme room. had babies, morning sickness was never a work home isn’t worth the time they lose with Second child, Audrey, has a challenge. their child. butterfly and flowers room.

Morning sickness is only the beginning “I look forward to coming home and playDavis for these four teachers. The challenges never ing trucks,” Jon Davis said.

First child, Turner, had a safstop, not even after coming back from materFor Petzold, having a husband help with fari animal room. nity leave. the household chores allows more time for Expected child, a boy, is going “I had to come back to school, but I didn’t them to play with their daughter, Nora, and to have a dinosaur room. want to leave my baby,” said Davis, who is prepare for their baby girl expected May 12.

Schoenon expecting her second child.

“Be a mother and have my professional Parker has a bedroom theme After being on maternity leave for sev- life; it’s the best of both worlds,” Petzold said. of books, reading, and travel. eral weeks, Davis prepared to return to school by stephanie mccracken

Babies’ Bedrooms

Expecting her second child, Tammy Petzold has endured morning sickness and lack of sleep while teaching English.

Photo by Stephanie McCracken.

20

caitlyn aakre

I sunburn easily

entertainment editor

Mar. 29, 2012 The Stampede

6:05- alarm goes off.

Snooze.

6:10- alarm goes off.

Snooze.

I don’t know why this happens, but it happens every morning. I set my alarm for 6:05. Even though I know I won’t climb out of my bed until 6:45. But I set it 40 minutes early, just in case.

In case of what you might ask?

The apocalypse.

I always check out my window just to make sure flames aren’t flying from the heavens.

No, I don’t. But it’s about 9 months until “the end of the world” according to the Mayans and I’m pretty sure it’s happening.

I mean, why else would gas prices be rising every day? And why are my grades so low?!

IT IS THE END OF THE WORLD! The Mayans ended their calendar on the 21st of December on purpose.

They could read the future centuries in advance and could see that the world was going to implode during my first college holiday vacation.

They also predicted the assassination of JFK, the discovery of Windows 98, and more importantly, the day that Lady Gaga would reach 20,000,000 followers on Twitter.

The Mayans are nothing but reliable.

They have, apparently, predicted every serious human tragedy. Ask any “scientist” or “historian!”

So get your emergency kits together. Fill a plastic tub with bottled water, jerky, soap and socks, because the end of the world is near, kids.

Seriously, I’ll miss you all.

LOLZ.

entertainment “The Hunger Games” not another letdown adaptation

New release proves that Hollywood can successfully adapt books for the big screen by ryan murphy

Eragon.

Anyone who loved the book remembers the atrocity that was the movie. I remember leaving the theater years ago, extremely disappointed.

Thankfully, “The Hunger Games” was the polar opposite of what “Eragon” was.

Now, as a huge fan of “The Hunger Games,” I feel obligated to tell every other fan that has not yet seen the movie, SPOILER ALERT! Please immediately divert your eyes to the pretty chart on page 23!

But if you have seen the movie and either want to read another informed opinion or just feel like yelling and screaming at me because you don’t agree, please continue.

Now that that’s out of the way, back to the movie.

With The Hunger Games having such a huge and loyal following from the young adult novels, in addition to being a highly anticipated movie, the bar was set extremely high for this cinematic adaption. And the cast and crew certainly did not disappoint.

The execution of the movie as a whole was excellent, right down to all the small details. The multiple settings from District 12 to the Arena for the games is yet another home run by the director and special effects crew. They really did a great job of fulfilling all of the fantasy of the script.

The casting of the movie was another home run. Characters like Katniss, Haymitch and Cinna being played by Jennifer Lawrence, Woody Harrelson and Lenny Kravitz respectively, were cast perfectly and captured the entire dynamic of the relationships in the book.

Another really strong point

kids between the ages of 12 and 17 are going to be dropped into an enclosed arena to fight to the death was not an R rated movie.

Going into the movie, I was curious as to how the movie was going to unfold 22 gory deaths with a PG-13 rating, but I was pleasantly surprised.

The movie’s camera angles were more from a first person perspective at times, and didn’t really show the deaths clearly which eased the delicate subject of kids murdering other kids, which makes this movie one that most parents would feel comfortable watching with younger children and not be worried about most of the violence.

The only real complaint I have about the movie is some of the things they left out and compressed. Granted, taking a 374-page book and turning it into a 140-minute movie is no easy task, but I feel like some of the essence is lost because there really is no way to translate some of the book into the movie because so much of the book are the thoughts in Katniss’ head.

The long days spent in The Hunger Games Arena all by herself inspires most of the book while set in the arena to occur in her head, and I really didn’t see that transfer to the movie. In place of large amounts of dialogue, Katniss has internal debates about her decision making which allows the reader to glean a more intimate understanding of the character.

As is usually the recommendation from anyone, if you have not yet read the book, it really is a great read. If you already have seen the movie, and not read the book, the movie is really good, but pales in comparison to the book and I highly recommend you read it.

The Hunger Games blew away the competition in the weekend box office, opening with more than $150 million over the weekend and is the third highest grossing opening weekend ever, being trumped only by “Harry Potter and t h e Deathly Hallows: Part 2” with $169 million and “The Dark Knight” with $158 million. With such a significant debut, the entire trilogy can be expected to be seen in theaters in coming years.

Cast & Crew

Art by Corey Allen

of the movie is the fact that it has a PG-13 rating. Many concerned parents, movie rating supporters and even some movie critics were enraged when they found out that a movie where 24

• Jennifer Lawrence as Katniss Everdeen • Josh Hutcherson as Peeta Mellark • Liam Hemsworth as Gale Hawthorne • Woody Harrelson as Haymitch Abernathy • Elizabeth Banks as Effie Trinket • Lenny Kravitz as Cinna • Donald Sutherland as President Snow • Alexander Ludwig as Cato • Amandla Stenberg as Rue • Directed by Gary Ross

REVIEWS

Entertainment choices for television, movie fans offer wide variety

Mar. 29, 2012 The Stampede

HULU: A convienent option for

21

those lacking cable, has downsides

Art by Jake Settera.

Hulu, a popular platform for internet TV, is convenient for the casual watcher or someone who doesn’t have cable or satellite. But if you are someone who seriously watches television shows, or likes watching old reruns, Hulu probably isn’t for you. by kathleen hodges

We are one of those weird families who just doesn't have TV. We've had it at different points during my childhood, but we eventually get rid of it. We rent movies and everything, we just don't have cable.

I can't say that I mind too much. I think we spend more time together as a family actually doing things, even if it's just being together, without the TV than we do when we have the TV. But that doesn't mean every now and then I don't miss understanding “Family Guy” jokes, or giggling at Seth Meyers’ gorgeous face. That's where the glorious invention of Hulu comes in.

We don't have Hulu Plus, meaning I can only watch up to six episodes of a show at once, and I have to wait a week to watch new episodes of some shows.

I think that it's important to note at this point that I am a pretty casual TV watcher. I only regularly watch six shows, and I watch them as I have time (mostly Saturday or Sunday nights), not immediately as they come out.

Because I am such a casual watcher, Hulu is perfect for me. The delay on some shows doesn't really matter, because I don't necessarily have time to watch on a weekly basis. Hulu is also nice because I can watch on my schedule, not around a TV schedule.

The other nice thing about Hulu is how short the commercial breaks are.

The longest commercial break on Hulu

that I've ever had to sit through was two minutes. Although the commercials get very repetitive (I think they only have ten or so they run through), how short they are definitely makes up for it.

Surprisingly, the biggest drawbacks that come with Hulu come with the fact that it's on the computer. It's hard to curl up on the couch for some quality Seth Meyers time when you are stuck in a chair in front of the computer.

Another major problem is that if your internet is acting up and buffering really slowly, Hulu TV can be agonizingly frustrating. Jokes just aren't as funny if the actor pauses every two seconds in the build up.

Also, if you just have regular Hulu, you can't watch any old episodes. I only recently got really into “The Office,” but I can't watch any old episodes. Again, if you're more than a casual observer, it would make sense to upgrade to Hulu Plus, but I'm not, so I'm stuck guessing if I want to figure out Jim and Pam's back story.

Although Hulu is perfect for me, I don’t think that I would recommend it if you have the option of regular TV. There is just something nice about curling up in front of the TV and channel surfing.

But if you are truly desperate for a mid-week “SNL” pick-me-up, or the cable has been cut, by all means, indulge in some Hulu.

Kermit, Miss Piggy offer fun walk down memory lane by jennifer verzuh

Full disclosure: I have always been a huge fan of the Muppets, and I love them and all their productions dearly so this review may be slightly biased. But believe me when I say that whether or not you are a hardcore fan of the gang like myself or have never even heard of the hilarious Jim Henson creation, you will love this movie.

“The Muppets” revolves around Walter (a brand new muppet introduced in this film), the world’s biggest Muppets fan (yes, even bigger than me), and his attempt, along with his brother Gary (Jason Segel), and Gary’s girlfriend Mary (Academy Award nominee Amy Adams), to get the Muppets back together to raise $10 million to save the Muppet Theatre from oil tycoon Tex Richman (Academy Award winner Chris Cooper).

But getting the band back together isn’t as easy as they might think. It appears the Muppets haven’t been in contact for years.

Kermit is staying at his mansion in Los Angeles; Fozzie the Bear is performing with the Moopets, a group of Muppet impersonators; Miss Piggy is as fabulous as ever and working in Paris as Vogue’s plus size editor; and everyone else is equally scattered.

Once everyone is back together they attempt to put on a show, which they haven’t done in years and are entirely unprepared for.

Segel, who also co-wrote the film, is not only funny, but an unexpectedly talented singer. He embodies happiness and is the perfect match for the Muppets. His co-star Amy Adams was made for this role, too. Not only is she a skilled actress, but she also canhold her own in a duet with Miss Piggy. Her smile is contagious, even over the screen. Chris Cooper, who plays the villain, is just the way we like our villains: big, loud, and overly eccentric.

The film features original and classic Muppet songs, including a beautiful rendition of “The Rainbow Connection,” which made its debut in the original 1979 film, as well as 2011’s Academy Award winner for Best Song, “Muppet or Man.” There also is dancing, cheesy jokes, and montages. It’s everything you’d expect from the Muppets and more.

It’s a shamelessly joyful, fun, and perfect film that people of all ages will adore.

22

Mar. 29, 2012 The Stampede

Art by Caitlyn King

Animé members share experiences, passion, about Japanese art form by greighsen adams “Silent Hill” and “Bleach.”

To the average person, one is a quiet little hill and the

other is a product to remove stains from white clothes.

But, to fans of one CMR club, “Silent Hill” and “Bleach” have very different meanings.

They are Animé shows, two of which the CMR Animé Club enjoys.

Animé is a different type of cartoon, newer and more interesting to many.

The reasons for joining Animé Club

change from person to person.

Sophomore Jade Motschenbacher said she joined the club because she wanted something new and different.

“I joined because I thought it would be something more interesting than what I would normally do,” she said.

Animé Club meets every Thursday after school in the Art room.

Their advisor is the art teacher, Tess Jacobs, and there are roughly two dozen members in the club.

In the club, the students explore the many styles of Animé from around the world. The members do more than just draw characters; however they also show an interest in Manga and the wide variety of Anime shows. Manga, which is read from back to front and left to right, is a popular form of Japanese comic books.

“Sometimes I read a book or just hang out with the people here. We play games, watch Animé, or read Manga,” Motschenbacher said.

Motschenbacher isn’t the only one who thinks Animé is fun and interesting. Sophomore Amena Ziegler

agrees that the club is a great way to spend her time.

“Animé [to me] is just a bunch of randomness,” Ziegler said.

Not all Animé members draw, but they do watch Animé shows and discuss them. “[Club members] just watch the TV shows and talk about who [their] favorite characters are,” Ziegler said.

Ziegler said there aren’t just the common Animé shows seen most often on television. It doesn’t stop at “Pokémon” and “Dragonball.”

“I like a few shows. Not really one in particular. I like ‘Silent Hill’,” Ziegler said. “’Bleach’ and ‘Pokémon’ are really popular in here. I like [‘Pokémon’].”

Animé club allows people to be something they can’t be the rest of the time. “We get to do whatever,” Motchenbacher said. “We can just hang out and be ourselves.”

Top right: Animé Club enjoys videos on other Animé expos during a club meeting on March 22. Photo by Greighsen Adams.

Bottom right: Animé member, Kaine Brewer reads Manga in the library on March 22, for Animé Club. Photo by Greighsen

What are your views on capital punishment? coffee or tea? cream or sugar?

If a child is bad they should be beaten

tea and sugar

special

question: How are you like a honey badger?

I would say I support capital punishment in very severe crimes that would be deserving of it

the individual deserves it.

allen

burke

ess

princ

23

not very excited about it.

coffee

I plead the fifth.

Black coffee...

tea. sugar.

tea/cream

One word to describe your life right now Bumpin What sorts of rituals do you do to offset second semester stress?

r

taylon

braatan

easton

mitchell

kangas

west

The CHART

Mar. 29, 2012 The Stampede

I do Pilates

>> Like the honey badger...I don’t care

Fast Go snowboarding/ participate in track

honey badger don’t care, I don’t care

>>

AWE SOME workout/avoid schoolwork at all costs...

I like honey...

I do what I want

both

dramatic read or vent to family members wild & free sometimes

one pot a day

dreamy.

YOGA A strange man named Randall narrates my awesome existence

keepingactive

alecks leavey

notes from a

smart-aleck sports editor

Mar. 29, 2012 The Stampede

From the womb to the grave, sports consume us.

Keep Away in preschool, dodgeball in elementary – they’re fun and force us to get off the couch, but most of all they keep us competitive. The intensity only grows with age.

High school is the epitome of sports and rivalries. The opponents always have the nastiest fans, the dirtiest players, and are constantly slipping fifties into the ref’s pockets. It almost seems ludicrous that mankind has such a strong romance with a game.

Pshhh, who am I kidding? What would we do without sports? Oh, perhaps read or frolic in the daisies?

Books and vegetation can’t match the raw power of a Blake Griffin dunk or the monstrosity of Calvin Johnson.

And if you thought your four short years in secondary education were truly harnessing the power of sports, just wait until college. They can create sports with two ping pong balls and some red cups.

In reality, college is made up of academics and sports, and not necessarily in that order. When you hear Roll Tide, you don’t automatically think about Alabama’s prestigious chemistry program – do they even have one? No, you think of the national champions of college football.

The tailgating, the deafening chants, the stadiums exploding with team colors – it’s heaven on earth. But most importantly is the connection you foster with your school and your peers.

When your team makes it on Sports Centers Top 10 Plays, you bawl like a proud mother. When your star point guard gets an interview on ESPN, you shout, “He’s in my English class!” When someone walking down the street is wearing your school hoodie, you decide he must be an awesome person. It’s a family thousands strong.

And no matter if my team is led by a Seminole or a leprechaun, I can’t wait to follow them.

24

Rooting for CMR

Spirit Squad uplifts students, players with performances by abby lynes

Not everyone has what it takes to be a member of the CMR Spirit Squad, but senior Mikaila Matt knows what strong qualities are needed to succeed.

“School spirit, a good attitude, being able to stay positive, have fun, and try new things is key,” Matt said.

Matt is a cheerleader and a member of the Spirit Squad, a group comprised of the cheerleaders, the Wranglers, and the pep band. It is the Spirit Squad’s goal to stir up school spirit and get students excited about sports and activities.

Matt sees the effort that athletes demonstrate, and said that she feels the need to encourage them because they work hard to get where they’ve come, and they need supporters.

Squad members get a sense of satisfaction from promoting the players, according to pep band saxophone player Claire Knox.

“When the team does well, it feels like you actually accomplished something and helped them,” she said.

The squad got a chance to feel this sense of accomplishment on March 9-10 at the state basketball tournament in Bozeman.

“The best part about performing at state

Cheerleaders support the athletes at the cross-town basketball game on Jan. 12. Photo by Kelsey Smith.

was the feeling I got after the performance and knew that we nailed it,” Wrangler Cori Bonilla said.

Though rewarding, the work required to do well during a performance takes tremendous dedication.

“It takes up most of your life,” Bonilla said. The effort is worth the time, however, because of the positive relationships and bonds made.

Bonilla said that she appreciates, “just being on a team with girls who understand my love and passion for dance and share that.”

Pep band drum major Anastasia Heryla feels the same way.

“I’ve met some of my best friends in pep band,” she said.

The Spirit Squad brings together more people than just their fellow teammates.

“It gives us something for the entire school to be united for no matter what group or clique you’re in,” cheerleader Tauni Kovacich said.

That common cause will stay in students’ hearts and minds for more than just four years.

“It will give us something to remember when we’re out of high school,” Kovacich said.

All in all, Matt said that the Spirit Squad’s role is very important, “to show that you care about the school.”

Far left: Wranglers go through their dance routine at the cross-town football pep assembly on Oct. 27, 2011. Near left: John Thomas, senior, taps to the beat at the Oct. 27 assembly.

Photos by Jake Settera.

Mar. 29, 2012 The Stampede

25

Ready to return the ball to the other side, junior Will Runkel practices at the CMR tennis courts on March 27. Photo by Jake Settera.

A two year player, sophomore Erika Lankford gets ready for a prepractice run. Photo by Kelsey Smith.

After his dad introduced him to the sport, senior Gavin Weissman has been playing tennis. Photo by Luke Sisko.

Spring Tennis, intosoftball Action players swing into season by claire knox

Perfecting her swing, senior Lexi Pyette strives for improvement on March 27 at the CMR tennis courts. Photo by Jake Settera.

Rising to the challenge, sophomore Sean West attacks the court on March 27. Photo by Jake Settera.

Everyone sits on the edge of their seats as sophomore Kaydee Parsons decides to steal second base. As she approaches the base, the ball is thrown. But instead of diving or sliding, Parsons trips. Right onto the base.

Safe! The whole team laughs as Parsons returns to the dugout with dirt in her smile.

This is sophomore Erika Lankford’s favorite memory from the 2011 softball season.

“It was just hilarious. We were all laughing at her,” Lankford said.

Funny memories like these aren’t the only reason Lankford enjoys softball so much.

“Softball is just a fun sport, and I like being outside and playing sports. Everyone on the team makes it fun,” she said.

Being a freshman on the team last year, Lankford said that the upperclassmen were a little intimidating at first, but she got used to them.

“At the end it was like one big happy family.”

The team dynamic and feeling of family and togetherness is one of Lankford’s favorite parts of the sport.

She said that she enjoys spending time with all of her friends while doing something they all really love.

Looking ahead to the coming season, Lankford hopes that the team will be successful.

“I really hope that the varsity team will be able to get a state championship this year,” she said. But mostly, Lankford looks forward to being able to participate again.

“I’m just really excited for the season to start.”

by luke sisko

For senior Gavin Weissman it’s not about how he plays tennis, but about being dedicated and reaching his peak.

“I used to play racquetball and squash, and my dad later pushed me into tennis so I could play for the school, and I’m glad he did,” he said. Weissman has been dedicated to tennis for four years competitively and is thinking about pursuing the sport even further.

Tennis requires agility and speed, and Weissman said he is dedicated to a lot of practice.

“My favorite player is Novak Djokovic because he has worked very hard to get to the No. 1 spot that he is now in, and he also has a great game and is fun to watch,” he said.

Weissman said he has always liked tennis, but he never got into it until his dad put him in lessons. He began to progress and play in tournaments, and now he thinks he will never quit. Weissman is passionate about his strengths and also what he needs to work on.

Weissman has a strong and grounded focus on what improvements he needs on his game. The things he wants to work on the most are ground strokes and serves.

He also said he needs to work on his net game and consistency.

“I always feel like I need to progress,” he said.

“When I get better and beat people better than me it keeps me pushing for the next level.”

26

Mar. 29, 2012 The Stampede

Claim that Woods considered becoming a Navy SEAL leads to testy exchange

Horsing around in the pit in Gibson Park on March 27, Lifetime Sports class members Billy Ivers and DJ Matury, both juniors, learn the techniques for the sport of horseshoeing. Photo by Kelsey Smith.

Jack of All Trades

Despite budget concerns, Lifetime Sports will remain next year by alecks leavey The life expectancy of Great Falls High’s Lifetime Sports class is running short. C.M. Russell’s Lifetime Sports teacher Mitch Maki, however, is sure his will remain thriving.

“We are keeping [the class] at CMR,” he said with certainty.

In response to budget cuts, the Bison’s 11-year old elective will no longer be offered next year. While CMR is expecting some reductions of its own, the popular two-period sports class will return.

“They only offer it one semester whereas I offer it both,” Maki said. He also believes the cut had something to do with the allocation of funds towards bus fare and other expenses for skiing and fishing trips.

Senior Jenni Peer stressed the importance of keeping the class in the curriculum.

“There are things that you learn in there that you can use for the rest of your life,” she said. “Opposed to a gym class, you have a lot of time to play.”

US Army and Army Reserve The US Army and Army Reserve is a values based organization that trains and develops tomorrow’s leaders. Becoming a soldier is a great way for you to build a solid foundation that you can take with you into the future. Soldiers stand out above their peers in many endeavors taken in the civilian world.

• • • • • • • •

She said the class teaches the fundamentals and rules of multiple sports, but then takes it a step further by implementing strategies and more complex techniques.

“This was my first semester taking it. I like badminton the most.

I’m really good at it,” Peer said.

Other sports include ice skating, basketball, bowling, billiards, horseshoes, biking, and archery.

Senior classmate Patrick Komeotis, who has taken the class the last two years, said his favorite activity so far has been swimming.

“You get to do a lot of things other classes won’t let you do,” he said.

He agrees with Peer and said that the benefit of taking the class is the ability to leave high school with the knowledge of all the games the class has learned.

He was also sure that the class would be back next year and that he “definitely” encourages underclassmen to enroll.

Name: Staff Sergeant Jesse J. Harris Military Occupational Specialty: Military Police Internment/Resettlement Hometown: Brentwood, CA Years of Service: 6 years U.S. High School Education: Deer Valley High School College Education: Currently enrolled at Columbia Southern University Most Memorable Army Moment to Date: Detainee Operations in Guantanamo Bay, Cuba What the US Army has done for me: Offered me the opportunity for a career that I can be proud of serving both my local community and my country. It afforded me opportunities in leadership roles that I would had never received at this point of my career had I pursued it in the civilian market.

By Jeff Shain The Orlando Sentinel (MCT) Tiger Woods tried to say as little as possible about the excerpts from former coach Hank Haney’s book that hit the Internet this week. Not that it completely prevented a few sparks from flying.

A testy exchange ensued Wednesday when a reporter pressed him for confirmation or denial of Haney’s claim that Woods considered walking away from the game to pursue becoming a Navy SEAL. “I’ve already commented on everything,” he said, referring to statements six weeks ago that called Haney’s publication of “The Big Miss” unprofessional.

The excerpts, posted on Golf Digest’s website, included observations about Woods’ troublesome left knee and a growing urgency to surpass Jack Nicklaus’ record of 18 major titles. What raised eyebrows, though, was the one about trading his clubs for special-ops duty.

“Tiger was seriously considering becoming a Navy SEAL,” Haney wrote. “I didn’t know how he’d go about it, but when he talked about it, it was clear he had a plan.”

So did Haney misinterpret something? “I don’t know,” an exasperated Woods finally said. “Have a good day.”

One day earlier, agent Mark Steinberg had tried a pre-emptive strike hours after the excerpts hit the web.

“Hank Haney’s claim that his book is about golf is clearly false,” Steinberg said. “His armchair psychology about Tiger, on matters he admits they didn’t even discuss, is ridiculous.”

BrokenBodies

Mar. 29, 2012 The Stampede

27

Student athletes struggle to heal their bodies after accidents, prevent re-injury throughout multiple sports seasons by kathleen hodges

It was the moment that every athlete fears.

It was the third game of the season, and senior Russ Morin was in Helena, playing against Capital. He had caught the ball and was trying to run over an opponent when a player from the other team attempted to tackle him.

The player’s helmet collided with Morin’s collar bone, with both players going at full speed.

Morin’s collarbone snapped in half.

“I didn’t really know what happened,” Morin said. “But I knew something was wrong.”

Morin sat out on the bench and initially told the trainer that he was fine. However, he soon realized that this was not the case, and the athletic trainer began taking off his shoulder pads.

Morin and the trainer could instantly tell that something was wrong. The collarbone was clearly broken and pushed against the skin. The trainer put him in a sling and hurried him to the emergency room.

The next Monday, Morin met with a surgeon, and decided to have surgery to repair his collarbone. Morin had an hour-long surgery where one plate and 10 screws were used to screw his collarbone back together.

Morin then began a long recovery similar to the recovery that countless high school athletes must face. As student athletes push their bodies to the breaking points, injury is sometimes inevitable, and many athletes have to balance a healthy recovery while retaining strength for future competition.

Assisting Katelyn Robbins, basketball coach Chad Olson and athletic trainer Teayre Klosterman check to Morin had never had surgery before, and he found the experience draining. make sure Robbins doesn’t need any extra attention at a recent basketball game. Photo by Jake Settera.

“It’s not fun,” Morin said. “It took a lot out of me.”

After that, “it’s a slow condition back in,” she said. That slow condition involves a The first three days after the surgery were the hardest. lot of cardiovascular exercise.

“I was physically drained,” Morin said. “I never thought I’d be back 100 percent.”

“It’s not jump right back into it,” Klosterman said. “You need to progress back.”

After the surgery, Morin faced an eight-week recovery, which he described as “really One of Klosterman’s most important tips to injured athletes? “Ice the injury,” Kloshard.” terman said. Ice can reduce swelling, and it’s important not to apply heat until a doctor “I wanted to keep playing,” he said. has told you to do so.

Morin had full motion in his shoulder after the surgery, but the area was sore. Morin Recovering from an injury is even harder when the athlete doesn’t know what’s gosaid that it was hard to move around, and he had to limit himself to lifting no more than ing on, something senior Wrangler Georgia Mae Morrison knows all too well.

10 pounds for eight weeks.

Morrison was warming up for a performance at state basketball her sophomore year “I did the recovery as well as I could.” and the team was practicing on a concrete floor. She fell and dislocated her knee cap. At The eight-week recovery process happened to take place in the middle of football the time, her knee cap was popped back into place, and she assumed it was fine. season, meaning that Morin couldn’t finish out his senior year on the gridiron.

However, Morrison soon realized that this was not the case.

Coach Jack Johnson allowed him to remain captain, and he attended every practice “It was sore all the time,” Morrison said, adding that she was often limping and and game. Morin missed the conditioning that football provided, however, making it couldn’t do anything. more difficult to return to top form in time for basketball season.

Morrison later found out that the cartilage in her knee had been fraying since sophoMorin was cleared for full contact competition just in time for basketball tryouts, and more year, and she recently underwent surgery to fix her knee. The surgeons put two he had been able to shoot hoops for a few weeks before that. holes on the side of her knee, sewed some of the cartilage, and shaved off the rest that “I was able to shoot and get my rhythm back,” Morin said. “It recovered pretty they couldn’t sew. quickly.”

“It’s going pretty well,” Morrison said.

Because Morin had missed eight weeks of conditioning, one of his final challenges The doctors explained to Morrison a “3-day, 3-week, 3-month rule.” Following that was recovering his strength. To do so, he focused mostly on lifting weights and jogging. rule, the first three days after the surgery, Morrison felt horrible. After the three-week He said that he was back to 100 percent two or three weeks after he was cleared for com- mark, she was able to return to light activity, and after the three-month mark she will be petition and he hasn’t experienced any further trouble with his collarbone. back to be doing all of her activities as normal.

Morin’s plan for recovery was perfect, according to athletic trainer Teayre KlosThe injury was difficult for Morrison because it impacted her participation in drill terman. team. She couldn’t perform at state because of when she had her surgery.

Klosterman said that preventative measures such as taping, concussion testing, and “I missed pretty much my whole senior year,” Morrison said. warm-ups are important, and that once an athlete has been injured, they can’t jump Thankfully, Morrison’s knee is on the mend. Before the surgery, Morrison said that back in. the pain “felt like nothing ever had before.”

If an athlete has been injured on the field, Klosterman is there to make an initial asHer knee still hurts, but Morrison said that the pain is different. sessment.

“It hurts now, but I can tell it’s from the surgery,” she said.“I’m trying to be really “Immediately it’s an assessment of the injury to make sure they’re safe,” Klosterman careful about not doing anything too fast. It’s weaker now.” said. Depending on the degree of the injury, Klosterman will either take the athlete to Morrison hopes to return to dancing once her knee is healed. the emergency room or treat them on the scene.

“I’ll work really hard and really carefully to make sure I gain my strength back.”

28

Mar. 29, 2012 The Stampede

What’s in your

locker?

Sneakin’ and peepin’ in peoples’ lockers

Rache l

Solom on

, 12

“I have pictures of my friends, family, and me as well as encouraging verses from the Bible.”

“It’s a flamingo. It keeps it pretty interesting.”

“I always have my locker decorated.”

“I put it all there to give my locker some color and to remind myself how blessed I am to have the friends and family that I do.”

“I feel encouraged and inspired when I open my locker.”

“I change my pictures regularly so I’ll look up to date and everything.”

1

,1 n e e r eG

Ja

“I have tons of pink; it’s mostly pink.”

“I have everything I ever need in my locker.”

With students spending countless hours a day at school, it seems only natural that they would decorate their lockers. Some students have everything they would ever need in there, while others are surprised to find things growing by the end of the school year.

But what’s really important when it comes to locker accessories? Three students whose lockers contain everything from decorations and family photos to stuffed animals and stickers show off their decorating finesse. And one student with a less than organized “home away from home” shows why decorations, or a lack thereof, are a personal expression of individuality.

“I just brought random pictures of friends, locker shelves, and flowers.”

2

Ali

1 to er, s C

Chase M armon, 9 “There’s like a whole entire wardrobe in there.”

“It smells like death. I’m pretty sure there’s trash in there.”

“All of my books are in there.”