El Diablo March 2018

Online at ELDIABLONEWS.COM

El Diablo Voice of the Students Durango High School

2390 Main Ave.

Durango CO 81301

Issue four

Volume Sixty-one March 2018

COMMUNITY COLLEGE MOVES IN Letter to the editor: regarding last issue’s marijuana photo

Page 5 Cassandra Blau Durango high school students hang out in the West Wing quad. Next year the quad will be walled off from the rest of the school with only fire doors connecting the quad to the rest of the West Wing and the second floor world language wing.

CAROLINE KNIGHT AND PAXTON SCOTT Head Editors

purely monetary rent.

“We have committed the space. Some of what we are going to gain is equipment and access to materials. Others Durango High School students and will be financial resources” said Snowstaff can expect big changes next year. berger.

Starting in June, Southwest Community In addition to ensuring a continued College (formerly Pueblo Community community college presence, the move College) is moving in. is touted to make college level concurSWCC’s Durango campus currently rent enrollment classes accessible to lies on the second floor of the Common more students. Concurrent enrollment is Building, adjacent to Albertsons. The when high school students take college facility, which was originally built as classes for college credit after they have commercial office space, currently housexhausted the options available at the es approximately 50 students. high school level. Currently, students SWCC has the express goal to prepare who are concurrently enrolled in SWCC students for technical careers and proor Fort Lewis classes travel to their vide a pathway to four year institutions respective campuses for class. with transferable credits.

“This partnership will help out This summer, after SWCC’s lease students who have a hard time getting expires at the Commons Building, the to a college campus. Students without community college will move in to the transportation have difficulty getting Durango High School campus, where to Fort Lewis or SWCC campus” said they will rent DHS’s Snowberger, allud“I would hope that the com- ing to the idea that west wing pod, munity has patience with made up of four more students will classrooms and two this move. We have been concurrently enroll offices. if the transportaPCC is changing here for a while and we tion barriers are want to provide educational removed. facilities primarily for financial rea“Aligning SWCC opportunities to everybody sons. classes with our in the area,” “Their lease is schedule will make - Craig Feigenbaum it that much more pretty expensive in cost. As a district, convenient” said we wanted to make sure we kept a two Snowberger. year college in our town” said Dan Along the lines of convenience, DHS Snowberger, the superintendent of 9R. administration is also considering the Although the final contract has not possibility of SWCC teachers teaching been drawn up yet, the lease will likely entirely high school classes for college include in kind donations as well as credit. In order for teachers to be cer-

tified as an adjuncts, they must have a masters with 18 credit hours in the content to be certified as an adjunct. While there are a couple teachers at DHS that meet that requirement, partnering with SWCC would result in more opportunities for high school students to receive college and high school credit simultaneously.

“If we wanted to run college algebra we can just tell them we need a professor to come teach fourth hour. Students could then get college credit without any additional complications” said DHS principal Jon Hoerl.

From the SWCC perspective, the move to DHS will result in improved classrooms as their current location, the Common Building, is not built with teaching in mind. However, by the same token, SWCC students will lose some of their free space where students can work and be social.

“The high school set up is really designed for not hanging out. I have a lot of students who are on campus 8-10 hours a day. As a teacher, I really want to encourage them to spend as much time as they can studying,” said Craig Feigenbaum, a biology faculty member who teaches on both the Mancos and Durango campuses.

Feigenbaum also recognizes certain advantages to the DHS facility, which he believes will improve PCC after overcoming the logistical challenges of a campus relocation.

“Here at the Commons, the classrooms are small, they are all carpeted, it’s not great for a biology lab. Moving to the new location, I am really excited

Spies scandal revisited-update on DHS celebrity

Page 7

Long time history teacher gets back on the pitch as girls soccer coach Page 11 because the facilities were built for education,” said Feigenbaum.

Southwest Community College will pay for all renovations in the west wing, including the new biology lab, which DHS students will have access to, as well as a bathroom that can be accessible during baseball games and tennis matches.

The decision was not met without controversy, however, primarily over the safety of mixing high school students with college students. In response, advocates of the partnership drew up a design that would make the SWCC space accessible only from outside. continued on page 2

Mary Ruth Bowman: the mother of women’s sports in Durango

Lily Longan

Mary Ruth Bowman is well known in Durango for her significant contributions to women’s sports.

LILY LONGAN Reporter Mary Ruth Bowman is a woman of many stories. Born in 1926 in the Canal Zone of Panama, the 91-year-old has witnessed everything from the Great Depression to the rise of modern internet.

When Mrs. Bowman moved to Durango in 1951, what she noticed immediately was the absence of a public recreation center or a girls athletic program in the high school. She was determined to progress the community and implement these elements into our community. She brought her concerns about a community recreation center to The League of Women Voters, the civic education group to which she belonged.

“The League studies issues. In 1960, we (The League) chose to study recreation” said Bowman. Bowman knew more about recreation centers than the other league members. “Right across the street from where I lived we had a rec center like this one here. This is 1926! In Panama! The center opened at eight in the morning and I was there at eight, it closed at five and I was still there” said Bowman. Bowman was shocked that Durango had no rec center.

She had grown up with one her whole life in Panama and in North Carolina, where she spent the later days of her childhood.

“Guess who worked in the rec center, my father!” You know how far it was from my house? One block” said Bowman.

After the league took up the issue in 1951, Mrs. Bowman went on to join the recreation committee, and with their work, including a petition signed by many members of the community, the proposal for the rec center passed by a narrow city council vote of 3-2.

Construction started on the recreation center in 2000, a satisfying end to a half century of Bowman’s work.

Another milestone of Bowman’s community work was the implementation of girl’s sports into schools. Bowman saw that the only athletics programs Durango High School offered for females was Dance Team or Cheerleading.

“In 1971, girls had no sports except in private schools. A doctor friend of mine, Dr. Edgerton, he had three daughters, and we had a swim team, still do. The boys had all these things, and the girls didn’t have anything,” said Bowman.

Bowman decided the easiest method to get girls their deserved funding was to go directly to the school.

“So we discussed it and we went to the athletic director. We said ‘we want a girls swim team.’ they said, ‘we can’t afford it.’ ‘What do you mean you can’t afford it, you’ve got 80 boys on the football scholarship!’ ” said Bowman.

Things changed a year later when Title IX was passed. Title IX is the amendment passed in 1972 that requires schools to give girls the same athletic funding that boys get.

“Guess what happened in 1972, Title IX. Then we got our girls swim team.

You know how many you have now? 13 girls[on the swim team], ” said Bowman.

Title IX was passed, and Mrs. Bowman and Dr. Edgerton went to the school. They asked again for funding for the girl’s swim team. When the school still refused to fund the girls with the ready excuse of not having enough money to fund both girls and boys athletics, they used Title IX as ground to threaten to sue the school.

“If you’re not going to get your swim team, what’re you going to do? Sue them. Guess what, we got a swim team that year,” said Bowman.

Mary Ruth’s work does not go unnoticed, even though it has been almost 50 years since she got women’s sports implemented into Durango schools.

“As an athlete, I’ve just really come to appreciate everything that she has done and kind of the pioneering work that she did,” said Dale Garland, a colleague of Bowman’s and current Dean of Students at DHS. “You always know when Mary Ruth Bowman is in the room. She is very much outspoken” said Garland.

March 2018

This outspoken personality may have been one of her strongest assets in her work in the community of Durango.

“It’s not easy to do some of the things she did in terms of getting women’s sports here.

It’s very hard for people to say no to Mary Ruth because she is so clear and so forceful and dedicated to what she does,” said Garland.

A former student of Mrs. Bowman’s and current teacher at DHS, Robert Logan, who went to school during the time that Title IX passed, remembers how Mrs. Bowman’s work impacted the school community, especially the parents.

“The general impression was, and I think, to some extent, still is, that the money doesn’t get distributed where they want it to be. So there is always a tension between a girl’s sports and a boy’s sport,” said Logan.

The school and its athletics programs have changed since the time Mr. Logan went to school.

“I think the change has just been the sheer number of opportunities they [the girls] have. The sheer number of opportunities they have is significantly higher” said Logan.

As for being a student who experienced a health class where Mrs. Bowman came in to guest teach, Mr. Logan had only one comment about her.

“Crazy. She was as crazy back then as she is now, just a little more animated.

I don’t remember many of my teachers from high school, and I sort of don’t remember any teachers that came in just once or twice or three times to teach something, but she is one I do remember,” said Logan.

Mrs. Bowman is well known by many long-standing families of the Durango community. Her work in implementing girls sports into Durango High School and petitioning for the Recreation Center has one reason.

“I had all these opportunities, and I just want to give those opportunities back,” said Bowman.

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ELDIABLONEWS.COM March 2018

New AP opportunities for DHS students EMILY FIALA Reporter

You may be surprised to hear that in our small town of Durango, with a beautiful river, new and improved water treatment plants, and multiple nature reserves, no environmental science courses are offered at DHS! Before the 2018-2019 school year, there has never been an AP environmental science class offered at DHS before. This course, taught by Sasha Creeden, will offer students a chance to learn about environmental concepts and scientific principles.

It also teaches how humans have interacted with nature, along with theories about how humans will use the environment in the future.

“I want to go into an environmental field and [this class] is going to give me that experience,” - Jr. Steevie Delio The course will be a new earth-science class for DHS that has never been offered before.

“It helps meet the end of the science spectrum,” said Sasha Creeden, the new AP environmental science teacher.

Now that there is an AP earth-science class, DHS offers multiple sciences for students to choose what they’re interested in. It gives them a bigger variety of science classes to decide on.

“It’s kind of like ecology on steroids.

It spends a lot of time going deeper into ecology, but then it looks at the human interaction with ecology as well,” said Creeden.

The course is going to be one of the easiest science classes at DHS because the concepts that students will learn are easier to grasp and there isn’t as much homework as other AP science classes.

This will be beneficial to students who are interested but already have a heavy workload. APES is also beneficial to other core classes.

“It ties in really well with economics, looking into supply and demand along with energy trade. The class will also tie in well with math classes because there is a good deal of mathematical analysis involved,” Creeden explains.

Creeden is extremely excited to teach the class. “I think we do have this missing in our school, and there’s really great resources outside the school that we can tie this into. We kind of have it all at our doorstep.”

Durango is full of resources that can be used for this course. We have the Animas River to collect data, the Animas City Mountain, new water treatment plants, and much more.

It’s not only Ms. Creeden who’s happy to have the environmental science class offered at DHS. Nature-loving students are excited to take the course, not only wanting to learn about the environment, but getting the experience of doing hands-on work in the environment itself.

DHS junior Steevie Delio is eager to take the new environmental class. “I want to go into an environmental field and [this class] is going to give me that experience!”

Delio is happy that she and her classmates will be able to go outside and do hands-on work. “It’s definitely going to get the students out there for them to make an impact,” said Delio.

Laurel Trout, a sophomore at DHS, is also very interested in the new course. “ I am planning on taking it as a senior and I am excited. It sounds very interesting!” Trout said.

Trout, along with other students, is glad that the workload won’t be as heavy as other AP science classes. It can give students a chance to explore the material without worrying a lot about the homework load.

“It’ll be nice not to have to do a lot,

No más securidad:

Cassandra Blau AP environmental science will be offered in the 2018-2019 school year. The course will be taught be Sasha Creeden and will feature ecology, mathematical analysis and economics.

but to learn a lot,” Trout says.

This new AP environmental science class has much to offer students for the future years to come at DHS. Students

will get to learn about the past, present, and future of the environment and how humans have and will use the resources it beholds.

Dept. of Homeland Security cancels TPS for Salvadorians

“I feel like the President thinks all Latinos are the same, so he’s just trying to get rid of them all by saying that 2001 was a long time ago,” said Ludwig.

Aside from Salvadoran immigrants, Department of Homeland Security has also canceled TPS for Sudanese, Nicaraguans, and Haitians who have been protected under terms of natural disaster or violence.

In short, this action is already proving to have disastrous effects on its hard-working recipients and the people they are responsible for supporting.

“In a humanitarian aspect, making people pick up and leave after nearly 20 years is really hard to even picture how it will even look, and might not even be possible considering how planted they are,” said Lemmer.

SWCC moving in

continued from page 1

Special to El Diablo A young girl giggles in the marketplace. The Department of Homeland Security’s decision will impact her and her family, as well as her town.

BRYN VALDEZ Reporter After nearly 20 years, Salvadorans living in the U.S. were hit with the news that they must vacate by September 9, 2019. About 200,000 Salvadorans came to the U.S. under Temporary Protection Service at that time, after a pair of catastrophic earthquakes hit their home county in 2001.

“It’s sad for them after major earthquakes, to have the country that accepted them just throwing them out again into the most dangerous country,” said Fr. Ashlee Ludwig, who is of Salvadoran descent.

One of the most obvious facts that the Department of Homeland Security has overlooked is that while the initial effects of the earthquakes have been subdued, El Salvador still remains one of the most dangerous countries in the world, with 91 homicides per 100,000 people in 2016, according to The Economist.

“Crime rates, poverty, hunger, a very low supply of jobs and low opportunity for education is what Salvadorans are dealing with in returning to El Salvador,” said Social Studies teacher Kendall Lemmer.

Specifically, El Salvador lacks the technology-driven and more advanced

job force that is seen in the U.S., meaning many people are potentially looking at a downgrade in trade and pay.

“I think our government is saying that they need to go back and help their own country,” said Lemmer.

While this may be the idea, our government is failing to consider how many of the residents under TPS send a portion of their earnings back to El Salvador to support their families who are facing an absence of jobs. These remittances constitute 17% of El Salvador’s economy, according to Voa News.

In addition, it is hard to imagine how our own U.S. economy will be impacted when a significant portion of the working residents are removed.

Possibly the most personal aspect of this issue is the factor of the many families that have been built in the U.S. “I think people’s lives are much more important than laws or borders” said Spanish teacher Maria Gonzales.

With this in mind, many Salvadorans have to decide to either return to El Salvador and abandon their families, take their families with them, or attempt to stay in the U.S. illegally if they are unable to obtain citizenship.

“I know a lot of Americans just think they should obtain citizenship, but I think that because a lot of people here are very wealthy, we don’t really under-

stand how hard it is to actually do that,” said Ludwig.

The government also has offered no modified route to legal citizenship TPS holders, leaving them to battle a process that often takes upwards of 10 years.

All things considered, Department of Homeland Security’s decision has left many to speculate on the real motive behind the canceling of TPS, which has previously been upheld by both the Bush and Obama administrations.

Additionally, SWCC has committed to having a site coordinator and a security guard on site from 7a.m. to 8p.m. during school days.

Parking is not expected to be an issue, as SWCC is only expected to have about four classes during the day.

Response from the community was given through school board meetings, and plans for the move were announced via the meeting agendas.

“It’s been on the board’s agenda. We heard some feedback from individuals, both positive and negative, there were concerns and we’ve tried to address those concerns, specifically related to safety,” said Andrew Burns, project manager of the merge between SWCC and DHS.

Special to El Diablo A colorful and busy marketplace local to El Salvador. The country is still recovering from the 2001 earthquake.

El Diablo

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ELDIABLONEWS.COM March 2018

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DHS dives into Puerto Rico cleanup Interact Club takes community service trip after hurricane wreckage

Jocelyn Earl Durango High School Interact club in Puerto Rico for a community service trip.

EMMA JABER Arts Editor Over the past year, Durango High School Interact, a rotary sponsored community service club, has been planning an international service trip.

In February, all their hard work paid off. After a year of fundraising, the club was planning on a service trip to Colima, Mexico but, with a recently raised travel advisory warning from the State Depart-

ment, these plans changed.

Just weeks before the trip, the option to go to Fajardo, Puerto Rico arose and the club changed their course. With the recent devastation facing the island due to the recent hurricanes, the club clearly saw their efforts could be more beneficial in a place where they were most necessary.

“At the beginning I was really sad because I was looking forward to Mexico, but once we got to Puerto Rico I

was really glad we made that decision because Puerto Rico was so beautiful and because of the recent hurricane, I feel like we did a lot and really made an impact,” said Jr. Riley Mata.

From February 9th through the 19th, ten club members planted trees and helped rejuvenate the Para La Naturaleza nursery, did trail work on the Para La Naturaleza nature reserve, visited with local children at the Boys and Girls Club of San Juan, and did coastal cleanup along the beaches of the reserve.

“I really liked replanting the ceiba trees because it’s cool to think that all of those trees could grow as big as they do and completely reforest the parts of the reserve that got destroyed,” said Sr. Allison Hall.

Ceiba trees are a large part of the ecosystem on the reserve and the students were able to rescue almost 70 of the trees in their infancy. The roots of ceibas have the ability to prevent erosion because of their wide and connected growth patterns which can potentially help the integrity of the land in the face of another natural disaster.

The trails were also noticeably damaged, so the students were able to start on one section that had been damaged.

“Doing the trail work and seeing all the destruction from the hurricane, like the palm trees that fell down, and how most things were wiped out was the most memorable experience for me,” said Mata.

Overwhelmingly, the students noticed the happy nature of the people they

interacted with on the island.

“I just noticed how nice and happy the Puerto Ricans were even with the hardships they have to deal with,” said Hall. “My biggest takeaway was probably just to have a good outlook and to spend your life trying to better the world in some way no matter your own hardships.”

In the end, each student had their own takeaway from the trip, and each viewed it as an eye opening experience.

“My biggest take away was definitely the atmosphere and community there,” said Sr. Joci Earl. “With everyone having their houses and belongings destroyed, they were still happy and that was really special to see, it wasn’t all about what you had but who you had.”

Emma Jaber Emma Jaber interacts with local Puerto Rican children.

DHS Rocks rallies for DHS Cares MIA BOUDREAU Reporter

Unlike most other talent shows, DHS Rocks is one with a special cause rooted in giving back and showing support for others within the Durango High School community.

The show lasts the entire school day.

Students get to attend if they raise a minimum of $25 per class. This year DHS Rocks raised a total of $5,041.

“The proceeds raised go to DHS Cares, which is a fund for students of the school and their families who could be financially in need,” said so. Stevi Cameron, a member of the DHS Rocks Student Council committee. “Last year we raised almost $4,500 and most of that has been used this year to fuel cars, pay for utilities, or even clothes for students at DHS, so the money circulates locally.”

DHS Rocks is also a great example of how we demonstrate the Demon Way at DHS. This talent show puts others first by giving support to those in our community who need it most.

“DHS Rocks is important because it exemplifies the Demon Way - by showing that we take pride in each other's talents and abilities,” said teacher and Student Council advisor Dale Garland.

“It raises money for an important cause and we can help DHS students who need help.”

The cause of DHS Rocks is very important, especially since the proceeds stay local. Even if where the money goes is confidential, students can still know that they have helped their peers.

This year, acts ranged from improvization to dancing and everything in between. Different acts perform each period, so there is a unique show every class. Students also get to perform their act in more than one show.

Sophomore Quinten Berridge has always liked to dance. He performed multiple times this year at DHS Rocks.

“I would say don't be afraid, I was afraid my first time performing, the many years you perform it gets easier, and you get use to it performing in front of a crowd,” said so. Quinten Berridge.

Quinten performed four times, and received standing ovations for all of his dances.

“My favorite part of DHS Rocks is probably that I can do may acts instead of limiting myself to one,” said Berridge.

DHS Rocks is always in need of more student participation and acts. Both students and teachers are encouraged to sign up for the show to display their talents.

“I like the idea that we have over 25 different acts,” said Garland. “I'd always like to see more students perform.”

Students motivations for participating can range from wanting to show off a talent to looking for personal growth.

“This is to build up my confidence and make myself more open because I do want to perform later in my life,” said DHS Rocks participant so. Abigail Webb.

A stop motion film artist, so. Connor Rea, doesn’t necessarily perform in front of an audience, but still enjoys showing his talents.

“My goal for film making is to make people smile, so it's always fun for me to show someone a finished project,” said Rea. Although some of DHS Rocks participants are seasoned performers, new and first time performers are welcome as well.

“I understand that it can be nerve racking to get up on stage in front of a crowd of high school students,” said Rea.”It's important to have fun and not worry too much about what your audience thinks. And if you think people are making fun of you, just remember that you were the one who was brave enough to get on stage.”

Lucky for Durango High School, there

Sponsored content

Lydia Schertz Brett Wilson, left, and Erik Skaggs, right, are pictured above singing and playing guitar and harmonica at DHS Rocks.

are a great many young students who will perform and help encourage others to donate money and time for a great cause.

“For families that can’t put a roof over their head, we’re able to provide it,” said

DHS principal Jon Hoerl. “For families that may need to get out of a tough situation, and get to a different place in their life, this money’s able to provide it.”

El Diablo Voice of the students and official newspaper of Durango High School.

Contact us: Mailing address: 2390 Main Avenue Durango, Colorado 81301 Phone: 970-259-1630, ext. 2221 Fax: 970-375-3987 Email: eldiablodhs@gmail.com tjolley@durangoschools.org Editors: Head editors: Paxton Scott and Caroline Knight Managing editor: Carter Reiter News Heads: Haley Szczech and Tierney Brennan Feature head: Saylor Stottlemyer Feature editor: Maddy Gleason Sports head: Bekah Moenning Sports editor: Mo Murray Arts head: Afton Mann Arts editor: Emma Jaber Specials head: Brianna Brown Specials editor: Irie Sentner Head photographers: Jenna Beckley and Maddie Dearien Photographers: Tatum Behn, Maggie Maloney, Stella Walsh, Cassandra Blau, Joey Mynatt, Autumn Stevens, Lydia Schertz, Alyssa Robertson, Hailey Voss Advertising editors: Ramon Perez, Gavin Syme Online heads: Gwen Stoddard, Gillian Holmgren Online editors: Tommy Rodgers, Sophie Hughes, Liana Bygel Reporters: Austin Swan, Jack Whistler, Sophia Adamski, Ramon Perez, Caleb Simons, Bryn Valdez, Catherine Marqua, Chloe Ragsdale, Kate McKinnis, Mia Boudreau, Grace Swanson.

Subscriptions... are 25 dollars a year; please send a check and mailing address to: El Diablo, 2390 Main Avenue, Durango, CO 81301. Thank you for supporting scholastic journalism.

El Diablo is a public forum for public expression produced by the students of Durango High School’s newspaper class under the advisement of Todd Jolley. It is printed by the Durango Herald/Farmington Daily Times. The paper encourages letters to the editor but will not print unsigned or libelous letters; opinions stated are not necessarily those of the administration, staff or school board.

DISCLAIMER: Advertisements do not necessarily reflect the views of Du-

March 2018

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News

Good News Section

HALEY SZCZECH & TIERNEY BRENNAN News Co-Heads

Everyone talks about the huge, political and scandalous news of the past month, but it’s always important to recognize the small and happy snippets as well. Every day, hundreds of animals are adopted into loving homes, siblings make you smile, and random strangers say hello to you on the street.

“My friend Lily gave me food at Denny’s when I had no money,” - Fr. Rebekah Markley “Four month-old Stanley was surrendered on Saturday because of someone in the family having an allergic reaction to him. Yesterday he left with Mom and the boys to start a new life in the family,” - LPCHS, February 24rd “Whenever I’m sad, my little brother writes me notes and slides them under my door,” - So. Eva Adair “Saturday [2/17/19] was a great day at the shelter. Seven cats and five dogs were adopted!”

- LPCHS, February 18th “For Valentines Day, my little brother gave me this note that said, “Dear Elsa, you’re welcome!”

- Fr. Elsa Caudle “9 month-old Hank was surrendered on the 13th for starting to like livestock too much. He was adopted yesterday to a new family and a home with non of the temptations. Looks like a great match with a lot of memories to make,” - LPCHS, February 20th

ELDIABLONEWS.COM March 2018

All photoes taken byJenna Beckley

“While I was in the DHS fashion show, I didn’t have time to go home and get lunch [...] and Lily brought me food, it was really nice,” - So. Izzy Herringer “One time, my brother made me a clay pot for Christmas, and he was so happy about it,” - Fr. Ethan Craig “Two year-old Angelina was found on CR 207 on Valentines Day. She met a family yesterday and left with them to start her new life,” - LPCHS, February 24th “Much thanks to Durango Early Learning Center and the awesome kids for donating toys, time, and love to the felines in our care,” - LPCHS, February 6th “El Diablo raised over $500 for the SafeHouse during our fundraiser this past week,” - Todd Jolley, journalism adviser “I had a normal Biology test and an AP Biology test, and she still helped me study for it,” - So. Teagan Deweese

StuCo preps for 2018 graduation NAOMI MINER Reporter

In May, several hundred seniors will be graduating from Durango High School.

Student Council pours countless hours into the preparation for the spring ceremony, along with Senior Tea and other graduation events.

According to teachers and students, graduation is more successful than thought to be. The class of 2018 had a couple setbacks in the graduation planning process in the beginning, but now student council is on track to make graduation a smooth and flawless event.

Student council’s setback in the graduation process was trying to work together and communicate. On the other hand, the class of 2018 did very well fundraising money to pay for graduation.

Student council first had to decide on what song, flower, and motto they would use. Their motto was determined by the whole class of 2018 voting on various quotes. They ultimately decided on “I am ready to face any challenge dumb enough to face me.”

One of the main setbacks of trying to plan for graduation is trying to get student council to work as a team.

“It seems like there’s a lot to do and it’s hard to navigate what you need to do in a certain amount of time,” said Senior Class Vice-President Micah Hwang.

One of the bigger issues that first occurred was where to begin. Trying to figure out what is the most important thing to what is not the first thing to be done. For example, the first thing that student council had to get done was find a place to host graduation. One of the not so important things to get planned was choosing the Sr. t-shirts.

“Because our whole senior class is new except the executives, to student council none of us really knew what we were doing,” said Hwang.

New leadership often leads to organizational struggles. However, teamwork and collaboration can overcome these struggles.

“This is a stressful year for a lot of seniors so it’d be perfectly fine if they

weren’t completely prepared,” says Kathia, a graduating senior.

In some ways, if a few small details of graduation were missing then it wouldn’t make the biggest impact or change how graduation works.

Timing was a big push for student council.

“Trying to work with 20 students can get a little clustered sometimes and can be difficult to move around problems.” said planning supervisor, Food and Nutrition teacher Mrs. Bright.

Having many students working on a project has many pros and cons.

Multiple people on one job can get the job done faster but it is also a set back if there is not good communication.

“It can be hard sometimes just because there’s a lot of us,” said Sr. Harrison Kairalla, a student council member.

Having a certain amount of jobs to get done in a certain amount of time is very demanding.

“I’m trying to get everything done before spring break. But it’s also a matter of how can we hold people accountable and together. I think that it’s gotten a little delayed because I have set an expectation. And it’s a communication style,” said Bright.

Student council did an exceptional job at raising enough money to make graduation happen.

“The class of 2018 has raised approximately $10,000 over the last four years,” said Mr. Garland.

Budgeting and fundraising was one of the simpler tasks student council has had to do. Fundraising money begins freshman year. But that $10,000 doesn’t go just to graduation. It also goes to their high school reunion, the money is also used to buy a gift for the school.

Student council built a team that works together and can overcome problems that stand in their way. They have done well to make demanding plans before spring break. They’ve worked hard and are committed to putting on a smooth ceremony and afterparty. They have, as their motto says, “overcome every trial that was dumb enough to face them.”

Maggie Maloney From left to right: Tanus Yoder, Harrison Kairalla, Corbin Reiter, Lana Razma, and Carter Reiter plan in the StuCo room with advisor. Not pictured: Jenna Szczech, Micah Hwang, Luke Meyer, Edde Lyons, and Emma Aggeler.

Tatum Behn The back of every student’s ID has the number for Safe2Tell, a secure and reliable source.

Suicide Screenings:

9R looks to prevent tragedy SOPHIE ADAMSKI Reporter

With La Plata County having one of the highest suicide rates in the nation, Durango School District 9-R has started to implement suicide screenings in some of its secondary schools. Screenings at Miller took place last October; screenings at Big Picture High School, Escalante Middle School, and Durango High School began in February.

“In response to the ongoing concerns about rates of suicide in La Plata County (not to mention State-wide and across the country), the district purchased the SOS curriculum for its middle and high schools,” said Sean Hembree, a Social-Emotional counselor at DHS and a chairman on the local suicide prevention board.

This year’s Signs of Suicide advisory lesson was intended to lay the groundwork for a broader, system-wide approach to suicide prevention.

“I hope [the lesson] will eventually be planned vertically; that is, that middle and high schools will collaborate in designing a multi-year, district-supported suicide prevention program that fits the needs of this community,” said Hembree.

Hembree and fellow Social-Emotional counselor, Katie Brandau, agree that the screenings will benefit DHS greatly.

“The screening is a preventive program for suicide, and, essentially, it’s there to make counselors and mental health providers who work in and with the school aware of the needs are of students who test out for suicidal ideation,” said Brandau.

Both counselors want to make clear that these screenings are entirely confidential, meant to be between only a student and a mental health professional.

“There are exceptions to this: in the case of a high risk of suicide, or otherwise wanting to harm yourself or others, or child abuse and neglect,” said Brandau.

March 2018

Dan Snowberger, the 9-R Superintendent, believes that the screenings will help the District and the town by keeping Durango schools, students, families, and the community safe.

“The screenings are in place to identify key factors that research has shown that student would possess if they are in a position where they feel like they might hurt themselves. With the number of suicides in La Plata County, both for students and adults, we felt like it was really important that we put a program in place that helps us identify those risk factors and support students in the process,” said Snowberger.

Mr. Snowberger believes that this process might find itself in a compromised situation due to lack of statistics.

“The challenge with suicide prevention is that you’ll never really know how many suicides were prevented. You only know how many were completed or attempted. In districts in communities like ours, who have seen a higher suicide rate, our goal is to see a lower suicide rate. It’ll be a matter of time before we can determine whether that’s the case or not,” said Snowberger.

If you feel that you or a friend is at risk, you aren’t alone. Free and confidential help is available. Call the National Suicide Lifeline at 1-800-827-7571, the Trevor Project at 866-488-7386, or text the Crisis Text Line at 741-741.

The Trevor Project is a non-profit that focuses on suicide prevention for LGBTQ+ youth.

Whether or not these policies are generally accepted as effective or not is an issue our district, and the community, will have to discuss in the future.

“If we’re able to capture one student that we didn’t know about, that we didn’t already know had a high risk for suicide or suicidal ideation, then, for us, it’s worth it,” said Brandau.

ELDIABLONEWS.COM March 2018

Reader Response: correction regarding football photo

I was looking through the school newspaper this week and I noticed a picture of the DHS football team inside a pot leaf and I had some concerns about it. I know it talks about the NFL and them banning medical marijuana but why did they have to put the DHS football team in that specific article? It makes us as a football team look like we are all a bunch of drug addicts. I don’t feel as if we should be labeled as drug addicts.

I don’t even know why you guys had to put the DHS football team in that picture when it talks about professional sports.

-Anonymous DHS football player El Diablo apologizes for any implications about the DHS football team’s drug use. While they were unintentional, we see how the photo could be misinterpreted, and we should have instead included a picture of an NFL team.

As student journalists, El Diablo staff welcomes critical feedback and will use this as a learning opportunity to be more thoughtful about our content in the future.

Opinion

Hollywood must do more than promote awareness for #metoo movement

Haley Szczech Last March, I attended the Women’s March n Denver, Colorado. I’ve always been motivated to support women and minorities in leading the way to equality, but being there, in the midst of over 100,000 empowered people, fueled my already burning fire.

I made a sign, wore my pink Pussyhat, and chanted for equality everywhere. I knew that a single day of marching wouldn’t change the world completely, but I also knew that it would help spread awareness.

Over the past few months, amidst

Nunes memo:

Democrats, Republicans cry wolf

Caleb Simons Everything’s an argument in America: gun control, tide pods, kneeling during the anthem, and presidential elections.

Nowhere has the argument been more fierce than over the FBI’s special counsel Investigation into Russia’s influence in the 2016 election.

On February 2nd, the House Intelligence Committee released a hotly contested memo written by the head of the committee, Devin Nunes. Nunes claimed that his memo had relevant information about the investigation into Russian meddling. Partisan reactions to this were, predictably, hysterical. Democrats called it a sham and an unrecoverable step away from how things are done.

Republicans had their own story, claiming it was “bigger than Watergate,” and evidence that the deep state is looking for dirt on the Trump Presidency. They blamed Democrats and demanded its immediate release.

The Nunes memo doesn’t kill the Mueller investigation, and it doesn’t do much beyond cast doubt on the FBI’s integrity. However, it isn’t a ‘nothing burger’ or a Republican attempt to shield Trump and destroy the FBI’s credibility.

The Memo claims that the FBI obtained a FISA warrant to surveil Carter Page, an advisor in the 2016 Trump Campaign. The information that the FBI presented to obtain a warrant was gathered by Christopher Steele, who was paid more than $160,000 by the Democratic National Committee to find damaging information on the candidate Trump. Using opposition research to take out a warrant is highly unethical and possibly illegal.

FISA warrants essentially wave usual electronic privacy laws so that the FBI can gather intel on a suspect. FISA warrants hold so much power that they must be renewed every 90 days. Each renewal requires new evidence, and that any favorable evidence for the suspect to be presented. Only a footnote notified the courts that the evidence was opposition-funded and therefore politically

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motivated.

Many Democrats have claimed that the Nunes memo is designed to shield President Trump and shoot down the Mueller investigation. Democrats severely disagree with President Trump, and there’s no denying that many would like to see him impeached and removed from the White House. The Mueller Investigation is where they are hanging their hopes. That’s why they will fight any document that threatens the credibility of the investigation.

The origins of the Mueller Investigation, in fact, predate the events outlined in the memo. And yet, Democrats continue to claim that Republicans are targeting their enemies. They’re so fierce on this issue because they believe that Donald Trump could not beat Hillary Clinton without Russian help, and Democrats will chase this story to the bitter end.

This isn’t unique to the situation. Liberal culture struggles to accept anything but their side, and this hurts their political strategy. The Democrat’s inability to find common ground, such as hardlining over DACA and the Wall, makes them unapproachable and contemptuous of the other side.

In recent political history, Democratic leaders have not shown themselves keen to uphold the integrity and fairness of government activity. The botched Hillary probe into her mishandling of classified information through private emails set a precedent in many conservative’s minds that the FBI wouldn’t uphold a standard of fair treatment. That’s why, when they read the Nunes Memo, Republicans feel skeptical about the FBI’s integrity.

It’s at this point that many Republicans, reading the memo, are going off the deep end and yelling, well, look at what the FBI did for Hillary! The whole deep state is out to get Trump!

This isn’t entirely without merit. Evidence suggests that former FBI Director Comey planned to exonerate Mrs. Clinton before he even interviewed her.

The issue is that Republicans are in danger of becoming steeped in conspiracy theories. It’s likely that officials in the FBI made biased decisions. However, Republicans should not jump to the conclusion that the entire deep state and intelligence community is out to find dirt on President Trump. Doing so without evidence will make the Republican party guilty of the exact same thing that they accuse the Democrats of: targeting someone for an agenda.

Clearly, certain FBI officials made some biased decisions and it is possible that in similar fashion to the IRS, the FBI was used by politicians to target rivals. The facts of the Nunes Memo can’t be ignored. A shadow of doubt has been cast over the FBI. Trust has to be earned, and right now the FBI has to do just that for the American People.

the sexual harassment accusations in Hollywood, celebrities have started supporting the push for equality in a myriad of ways. First came the #MeToo movement. I noticed the hashtag on Facebook, seeing that many of my friends, as well as family members, had experienced sexual harassment or assault. After checking Twitter and Instagram, it became clear that the hashtag wasn’t meant to start a revolution - it was meant to spread awareness.

To allow women and men everywhere to raise their hands and show that they, too, had a harmful memory that they were tired of suppressing.

Then came the Times Up movement.

Inspired by the Me Too hashtag and the Harvey Weinstein sexual assault allegations, Times Up is a true campaign against sexual harassment. A majority of the awareness for these two movements was spread by Hollywood. But when it comes down to it, are they really doing their part to change their lifestyle and career choices?

The 2018 Grammys created plenty of controversy around the movement when nominees decided to wear white roses in solidarity for the victims. Surprisingly, or maybe not-so-surprisingly, a number of nominated men decided to leave the white rose at home. These included

Tyler the Creator, Childish Gambino, and Big Sean, all of which who have questionable lyrics involving sexual harassment or rape.

However, even those that did wear the rose may have questionable reasons for doing so. Similar to when businesses use the LGBTQ+ rainbow to gain popularity, as opposed to actually supporting those individuals, many have wondered if celebrities are supporting this important movement for selfish reasons.

It would be good publicity to support such a beneficial movement for sexual assault survivors everywhere. While many celebrities do legitimately support the movement, there are plenty of others who will claim to be a supporter, but still worked with Weinstein after he was blamed.

During the Golden Globes, many celebrities showed support once more by wearing black. Clearly, the thought is there. Famous women and men alike want to spread awareness. However, wearing black won’t make much of a change. It’s nice to see those in the industry standing in solidarity, but if they don’t change their actions in a business so corrupted with sexual harrassment that it’s almost become the norm, the sexual harrassment won’t end.

Indecency of the Internet: Logan Paul’s idiocy

Maddy Gleason If you don’t know who Logan Paul is, consider yourself lucky. Unfortunately, most of us can’t say that we haven’t heard of the infamous internet star.

On the last day of 2017, he released a video that launched a huge social media brawl.

The video showed Paul venturing through Aokigahara, the Japanese suicide forest, with a group of his friends.

He filmed a victim of suicide in one of the nearby trees, and laughed about it.

“I didn’t do it for views. I get views.

I did it because I thought I could make a positive ripple on the internet, not cause a monsoon of negativity,” said Paul in an apology he posted on twitter.

This apology is merely an attempt to be instantly forgiven by the internet.

The paragraphs he typed on his phone are not enough to make up for the fact that he’s an attention seeking degenerate.

He claims he “intended to raise awareness for suicide and suicide prevention” but his video very graphically displays his incredibly disrespectful attitude.

Apparently, he wasn’t trying to be disrespectful, but that’s hard to believe when he pulled out a bottle of sake and said “I don’t want to be sober for this s**t”.

It’s appalling that Paul released this video with a fan base which is made up of 70% young people. We don’t want Logan Paul teaching the kids and teenagers that it’s ok to mock suicide and depression. Although his pea-sized brain didn’t recognize this, it’s incredibly insensitive because sadly, there are high suicide rates of young people.

He also uncomfortably offended Japanese culture in the same video. He threw a dead fish on a civilian’s car, he shouted loudly in a temple and had to be removed by the police, and by showing the body he disrupted the sacristy of death.

After he posted this video, Youtube removed him from a youtube red production. They also decreased his monetization from premium ads. But this isn’t punishment enough. He needs to understand that what he did affected victims of suicide and their friends and family.

Fellow youtubers took a stand and

March 2018

used their platforms to make a change.

Jessie Paege, on twitter, said “the fact that a human could ever think that it’s morally correct to not only joke about suicide, but to exploit it for personal gain is frightening. The topic is sensitive and vulnerable and should be treated with absolute respect.”

“Being blinded by your ego so much so that thinking it is okay to make insensitive remarks about suicide, and broadcasting it for millions of CHILDREN to see is sickening,” tweeted Ethan Dolan, another youtuber.

Paul claimed to have removed the ads from his video, but there was a short ad at the beginning of it. They were removed but it’s despicable that Paul attempted to get away with this attempt for benefit.

Paul was interviewed on Good Morning America where he apologized and said “I’m a good person who made a bad decision. ...I will think twice in the future about what I post.”

The apology was greatly appreciated, and he even donated one million dollars towards suicide prevention. Previously angry viewers could give him a second chance.

But then, less than two weeks later, he rolls up with a new video, in which he tases a dead rat. If we didn’t know before, now his priorities are obvious.

Who cares if you offend millions of people, as long as you get attention?

Many of his supporters think people who are responding are being too harsh.

But you know what’s harsh? Laughing about a dead body and tasing a dead rat.

These decisions that haven’t exactly made Logan Paul shine, and there’s a pattern in his behavior. Paul does something idiotic and offensive, then fabricates bogus apologies to quiet down the mayhem for a while. Then he makes another repulsive video and hopes for a positive response. But we won’t ignore this anymore. People of this caliber should not be so easily forgiven.

Also, the reason behind these decisions isn’t some complex plan to win over the internet; it’s money. In all of his videos, he shills his merchandise, talks about how much money he makes, and uses these horrible decisions for lucrative purposes and to dupe teens out of millions of dollars.

Everyone likes attention, but it’s possible without showing a dead body or disrespecting sacred and ancient culture. For future youtubers who want to grow, start a hashtag trend, or use your talents to boost your supporters and fan base.

Logan Paul has made too many mistakes for the public to forgive him.

He’s continually disrespected sacred Japanese culture, and violated a suicide victim as well as a dead animal. It would be a relief if he quit Youtube and stopped with the offensive and attention seeking acts, but he’s already ruined his career. Despite constant retaliation from the public, Paul has not ceased these childish acts, and it’s pretty obvious he hasn’t learned his lesson yet.

6 Opinion

ELDIABLONEWS.COM March 2018

Ego above all:

a reflection on President Trump

Grace Swanson President Trump is mentally and morally unfit for office. We have watched the reign of Donald Trump, from his sickening sexual claims, his racial discrimination, to putting the lives of millions at risk to prove he has more power than Kim Jong Un. So I ask you Mr. President, is your ego really above all?

By definition a narcissist is an ‘extremely self-centered person who has an exaggerated sense of self-importance.’

With the new New York Times best seller, “The Dangerous Case of Donald Trump” psychiatrists not only address his symptoms of narcissism, but dive deeper into signs of psychopathy and other illnesses.

“We warn that anyone as mentally unstable as Mr. Trump simply should not be entrusted with the life-and-death powers of the presidency,”writes Judith Lewis Herman of Harvard Medical School and Bandy X. Lee of the Yale School of Medicine.

With his dangerous and unstable temperament, combined with his control over the armed forces, including our nuclear arsenal, not only is he affecting the lives of people in America but he is also threatening the world as a whole.

In a egotistical battle between Kim Jong Un and himself, Trump angrily tried to prove his power over Un’s after he threatened to Nuclear Bomb America.

“Will someone from his depleted and food starved regime please inform him that I too have a Nuclear Button, but it is a much bigger & more powerful one than his, and my Button works!” tweeted Trump.

Telling a country to “Bring it on” in a nuclear war threat, puts at risk the lives of the people in the country. Someone with an eye for destruction should not be accountable for the lives of millions.

Kim Jong Un isn’t the only world leader to experience Trump’s insanity - he screamed at the Prime Minister of Australia over the phone and shoved the Prime Minister of Montenegro to be in

the front of a NATO photo op.

Apart from his obvious power to implement disastrous policies - from nuclear war, to mass deportation, irreversible climate policies, racial discrimination, gun violence - his basic interactions with the humans around him, including his family and advisors, are totally erratic.

For example, let’s examine his interactions with women.

“Grab them by the pu**y… I can do anything,” said Mr. President in a nauseating video. He once noted that, “If Ivanka weren’t my daughter, I would be dating her.” He claimed a tough question from a female journalist, Megyn Kelly, was due to her menstrual cycle.

He further suggested that a female Senator would ‘do anything’ for a donation.

If this is how he talks about in public, imagine how he treats them in private.

Apart from his comments about women, his treatment towards nonwhite people’s is appalling. Calling Mexicans ‘rapists’ and ‘criminals’, saying that developing nations are ‘s***holes’, and calling black NFL players ‘sons of b****s’ is unfortunately common for many private citizens. However, for a sitting President to say this on national television, in front of the entire world, only offers a glimpse of his anger and lack of temperament.

“Trump shows indications of sociopathy, including lack of empathy, absence of guilt and intentional ma­nipu­la­tion.

Put it all together and you have “malignant narcissism” stated the Washington Post, with evidence backup from the aforementioned psychiatrists.

Trump’s tendency to react without thinking and boost his self-esteem has carelessly typed into twitter countless times, without a consideration of the consequences. He casually called for the government to revoke licenses of media outlets that criticize him, openly criticizes his own Cabinet officials, staff members, and fellow Republicans.

“Trump displays signs of extreme present hedonism... Combine hedonism, narcissism and bullying, and you get an impulsive, immature, incompetent person who, when in the position of ultimate power, easily slides into the role of the tyrant.”wrote psychologists Philip Zimbardo and Rosemary Sword.

It’s not even safe for his own staff members.

Trump flagrantly fires people who question him or seem disloyal, and, along with a 34% staff departure rate, he has had the largest staff turnover rate of any first year President. Even those who support his monstrous agenda can’t work under his tyrannical nature.

Proof of Trump’s uneasy health provides clarity that he is truly fit for the role of presidency. Let’s hope we can survive his erratic actions in the future.

or Healthcare: Right privilege?

Austin Swan Many people in today’s society are moving towards the belief that healthcare is a universal right for all individuals and that the government is responsible for providing that healthcare to those individuals.

However, healthcare is not a right. No one is entitled to healthcare and no one has the right to someone else’s labor.

Healthcare is a service.

The reason no one has a right to healthcare is because healthcare is a commodity that has to be provided to individuals by other individuals. No matter how much someone needs medical care, people do not have the right to steal labor from doctors and force them to provide healthcare.

Healthcare is different than rights such as freedom of speech or the right to bear arms, because healthcare has to be provided to you by someone else. Doctors have the right to charge any price they want to for healthcare because they are providing a service. Individuals who are seeking healthcare do not have the right to dictate to a doctor that they must provide care for a certain price, that is theft of labor.

The free market economy has proven time and again that it is the best way to increase quality and reduce cost.

Pew research center came out with a study in June of 2017 that states 60% of Americans currently believe that the federal government is responsible for providing healthcare to citizens. Public opinion is continuing to swing in this direction, which is scary because providing universal healthcare to all citizens requires theft of labor, leads to a drop in quality, a drop in number of doctors, an increase in wait time at hospitals, and increased taxes.

William Kissick, an american professor of medicine at Wharton, states in his book, Medicine’s Dilemmas: Infinite Needs Versus Finite Resources, that there are three main points of healthcare, universality, affordability, and quality. Kissick claims that in any given healthcare system, only two of those

three things can be achieved.

When healthcare is handled by the federal government, the result is a system that strives for universality in affordability. Unfortunately, this comes at the expense of quality. In order for the government to make healthcare universal and affordable for citizens, they have to dictate that doctors provide care at a price much lower than they would like to.

To become a doctor, one must spend at least 11 years in college and residencies. Not only is this schooling challenging, on average it costs a total of $420,00. Doctors need to be charging enough for their practice to be able to pay off the cost of the schooling they had to go through to become a doctor.

When the government is given the ability to dictate the price at which doctors work, doctors make less money, this removes part of the incentive for becoming a doctor. Many people become doctors because they want to help people, but would be dissuaded from it if they knew that they would only be earning only a salary slightly above average.

Even after the partial removal of some aspects of free enterprise in the healthcare market, American doctors make an average of $186,000 annually.

Doctors in Canada, where there is an almost fully universal system only make an average of $125,000 a year.

Less people would become doctors in such a system, making the amount of care go down and the quality of care go down.

If you want to make goods and services better and more abundant, you must first incentivize those things and allow for competition between healthcare providers.

In a free market healthcare system where healthcare is viewed as a commodity and not a right, and there is open competition between doctors, therefore becoming a doctor is incentivized.

An example of an area of healthcare that has been positively affected by the free market and the removal of government intervention is lasik eye surgery.

LASIK eye surgery is one of the least regulated practices in medicine.

LASIK eye surgery used to cost people around $20,000 an eye, but now it only costs around $3-4,000 an eye. The reason for this is that insurance companies have nothing to do with it, and because there is free and open competition between providers.

Capitalism and free enterprise are the concepts that led America to becoming the greatest and most prosperous country to ever exist. We need to maintain these concepts and ensure that they are not removed from our society. By declaring healthcare a right, and making the government provide it, the free enterprise in the healthcare market is removed.

The dangerous effects of stereotyping in crime and punishment

Chloe Ragsdale Our words have the power to shape people’s lives, whether it’s through the pounding of white supremacists’ marches or our President’s hateful tweets.

Stereotyping has become a dangerous force in our world today, leading to the innocent deaths of thousands of individuals just because of their race, religion, gender, or sexuality. The bias behind stereotypes unconsciously stems from our childhoods, morphs into the monster of racism that it is today, and needs to be controlled.

On February 5, many people around the US commemorated the 23rd birthday of Trayvon Martin, a 17-year-old

African American boy who was wrongly shot and killed by George Zimmerman on February 26, 2012. His death sparked the Black Lives Matter movement, an organization focused on defeating police brutality against innocent African American people today.

Stereotypes not only affect our youth, but highly influence our justice system.

According to the Huffington Post, police officers are proven to search three times as many people of color than white people, and are more likely to use methods such as tasers, dogs, pepper spray and physical force against them.

As reported by the Prison Policy Initiative, the US has the highest rate of incarceration in the world, with about 500 arrests for every 100,000 people.

Out of the 2.3 million people imprisoned in just the US, 40% of those are African Americans, and 65% of them are arrested and sentenced to life without parole for nonviolent offenses.

The origin of these statistics branch from a form of entertainment used commonly in the 1800s called Blackface.

Blackface was the cruel imitation of African Americans by caucasian people painting their faces black. From Blackface, figures such as Jim Crow and Zip Coon emerged, who were “typical, ragged slaves” who represented the African American race in a callous way.

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The images of Jim Crow have carried all the way from the 1800s to modern day media, literature, and cinema, all of which contribute to the heavy biases against African Americans. These biases, the actions we take due to stereotypes, have lead to police brutality, innocent deaths, and unequal sentencing against people of color.

Our words double the chances that an African American will be arrested as compared to their caucasian counterparts, and therefore double the chances of devastating their futures. We are controlling the lives of African American youth with these stereotypes, making them fear for their lives while simply listening to music, wearing a sweatshirt, or even just driving. African Americans populate 13.3% of the United States, and we are setting them up for failure and a life of uncertainty.

Not only are these stereotypes dominating the lives of African American children, but they are forced to wallow in them. According to the United States Census Bureau, about 40.6 million people are living in poverty, and 22% of them are African Americans, which further adds to the stigmas against them due to the stereotypes linked with poverty. Gangs, drug use, and violence are generally associated with low-income neighborhoods, and therefore strengthen the predisposed thoughts police officers have against African Americans that lead to violence.

In 2017 alone, 147 unarmed people were killed by police, and 48 of those were unarmed African Americans and 34 were Hispanic. Stereotypes have reached the point of innocent people being murdered; they are the triggers waiting to be pulled before a situation is even examined.

To add to the growing presence of stereotypes in the US, President Donald Trump has instilled an atmosphere where they poison the mind’s of our law enforcement officials.

El Diablo

“America must fix its lax immigration system, which allows far too many dangerous, inadequately vetted people to access our country,” President Trump commented after a bombing in Manhattan committed by an immigrant injured several people. By stereotyping all immigrants as dangerous and untrustworthy people, President Trump has threatened the “land of the free” rhetoric of the US, where people from all over the world are welcome and celebrated.

Frustratingly enough, President Trump has yet to discuss the major factor of white mass shooters and criminals in the US, but instead decides to focus on the presence of illegal immigrants, who have yet to cause our country’s deadliest mass shooting in history.

The Las Vegas shooting on October 1, 2017 is a prime example of how the media generates stereotypes by labeling criminals based upon their ethnicity.

“This was a sick person… ” said President Donald Trump about Stephen Paddock, the man who shot and killed 58 people and injured over 500 at a concert in Las Vegas. Just like most white mass shooters in the US, the media and our president has portrayed them as “mentally ill” or “lone wolves”, instead of calling them terrorists, like they truly are.

Our words are the most powerful thing that we can control in our society today, and we are using them for all the wrong reasons. We have to teach the youth of our world that stereotypes do not define themselves or others, and that they are more than just simple phrases waiting to be judged by first glance.

After all, we are all human beings who should have equal rights to be treated as individuals, no matter where we come from or what we look like. We must be aware of how commanding our words can be, and how they can penetrate with the force of a gunshot or create a change to better the future.

ELDIABLONEWS.COM March 2018

Feature

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World War Ⅱ survival story: Lazlo Szuecs CHLOE RAGSDALE Reporter

Three year old Laszlo Szuecs and his older brother, Miklos, hid in a Lutheran orphanage in Budapest, Hungary, fearing what their Jewish heritage would result in during the final stages of the Holocaust. As a survivor of World War 2 and the communist overtaking of Hungary, 76-year-old Durango resident Laszlo shares the fascinating timeline of his life, and how his background has shaped his thoughts about the dangerous issue of stereotyping we face in society today.

Shortly after leaving the protection of the orphanage, Laszlo and his brother returned to their family, where they spent Christmas Eve of 1944 in a small alcove in a bomb shelter under an apartment, British bombs showered down on the Nazis while Russian tanks surrounded the city.

“After the war, when the Nazis were defeated, the Russians moved in, so we got out of one dictatorship and into the other,” Laszlo said. He described the transition from Nazi invasion to communist invasion, and how neither party had a satisfactory rule over Hungary.

Following the invasion, the Soviet Union overtook the Hungarian military, eliminated all other political parties, and falsified the election results so that all political leaders were communists.

“Once the Russians moved into Hungary, they decided it was too nice a place to leave, so they just made themselves at home,” Laszlo said.

Fortunately, Laszlo’s father and brother left for the United States after two years of the Russian invasion, when it was still legal to leave Hungary, hoping to establish themselves and send money for Laszlo and

his mother, Maria.

“Whoever has the guns has the power,” Laszlo said. The Soviets engulfed Hungary and trapped all its citizens to wallow in hatred of the communist party through the physical barrier called the Iron Curtain. This made it illegal for Hungarian citizens to travel out of Hungary, and therefore confined Laszlo and his mother in the communist stricken country, separated from half their family for nine years.

A blessing came in the form of a government message, informing Laszlo and his mother, that they had 48 hours to leave their apartment and Hungary to make room for a communist family.

“The people that we were getting moved in with were delighted to learn that people were getting moved in with them, rather than they being pulled off to a labor camp in Siberia,” Laszlo said. For three years, ten-year old Laszlo and his mother stayed with this “really great, not educated, and overly religious” family, until the death of Josef Stalin and the loosening of the communist control over Hungary, which allowed them to move to the US. It was in January of 1957 that Laszlo and his mother took the famed Queen Mary ship over to the United States, where they ironically watched the movie Oklahoma, the place they would soon call home.

“The luxury was intoxicating,” Laszlo said. Similarly to the Queen Mary, he was fascinated when he first arrived in the US. As with most fifteen year olds, Laszlo worked in the summers on a farm in Enid, Oklahoma, saving up for his 1951 Ford, a “mind boggling” event for a teenage boy just introduced to American splendor.

He began his college career at Philip’s University as a chemistry major, where his

Sydney Spies Scandal: Update on 2012 DHS celebrity

Special to El DIablo Sydney Spies was a 2012 Senior at Durango High School that wanted her senior photo to be somewhat scandalous in the yearbook. It was declined by the staff.

CATIE MARQUA Reporter Many members of the Durango community recall Sydney Spies’ reputedly, scandalous senior photo that grabbed the nation’s attention. Five years later, this scandal has led Spies and her mother, Mickie Spies, on a quest to improve humanities’ state of consciousness.

Major controversy arrived after DHS’ 2012 yearbook committee and administration deemed Spies’ senior photo ‘too sexy’ to print. After speaking out against the yearbook staff members’ decision, a local story quickly became national news. Spies and her mother were contacted by multiple media outlets and appeared on the Today Show to voice their thoughts on the controversy.

The dispute broke the Today Show’s online poll record after asking viewers if they thought the photo, “too inappropriate” to be in the yearbook. Seventy-seven percent of the votes were not in Sydney Spies’ favor.

Despite the large majority of people who agreed the photo was not yearbook appropriate, Sydney and her mother still fought back.

“I fought for my freedom of expression... judgment, jealousy, negativity, fear, and attempts to suppress my free nature came from people of all ages, sex and race. I saw the dark side of humanity. Strangers, ‘friends’, neighbors, even family sided with the majority, believing that my voice needed to be silenced, that flaunting my sexuality was a horrific crime,” said the former DHS student Spies.

At the time Sydney was only seventeen-years-old and did not have the support from her peers and much of the criticism she received was incredibly malicious.

“I had the worst of the worst being said about me by hundreds of thousands; whore, slut, prostitute, porn star, where’s your stripper pole? I even received death threats,”

said Spies.

In spite of the hateful comments coming from people all over the nation and even peers from her community, the support of Spies’ mother was enough for her to not allow the negativity to silence her beliefs.

“My mom is my best friend. Had she not championed me, I wouldn’t have been so bold. As long as you have one person that believes in you and has your back no matter what, you can take over the world.

As for my ‘peers’, almost all of them hated on me viciously. It surprised me. I overcame tremendous adversity and came out stronger without the support of my peers,” said Spies.

At the time, Spies voiced that she was fighting for her freedom of expression but as she reflected on the controversy five years later, she discerned that the fight ran much deeper than simply having her photo be allowed into the yearbook.

“I fought for my freedom of expression.

I thought that fight was limited to the legalities of the student press law. But in reality, it was a much bigger issue. It was about self expression and the suppression of sexuality in our society. People didn’t care what I was fighting for. All they saw was a seductive young girl in a sexy photograph. They did everything they could to discourage my free nature,” said Spies.

A lot changes in five years, especially when people like Sydney Spies and her mother practice their rights and vocalize their opinions in pursuit of instigating change. However, not much has changed in regards to the majorities stance on whether the photo is yearbook appropriate.

“I didn’t think the photo was appropriate.

I mean, everyone else is held to a standard and I don’t think she should be exempt from that,” said DHS security guard Steve Kerchee.

A current member of the 2017-2018 high school yearbook staff explains that even today the photo would not meet the requirements to be allowed into the yearbook.

“As an editor, there are certain things we can’t allow in the yearbook. The photo [of Spies] shows a lot of skin and comes off kind of seductive. Our job is to make sure the photo leaves a good legacy for you and that you would be okay to show your grandparents or twenty years later you could show your children that picture,” said yearbook editor Sr. Caleigh Walker.

The 2012 yearbook staff might have speculated that Sydney’s photo would be compromising to her legacy, but Sydney is grateful for the experience and finds that it impacted her life for the better.

“We moved to a foreign country to begin building our empire. We’ve written books, become Master Astrologers, Life Coaches and Love Gurus. We study esoteric knowledge on the daily, teach the art of manifestation and coach thousands in elevating their physical, spiritual, mental and emotional well-being. Had I not had this experience, I would not be the person I am today,” said Spies.

Special to El Diablo Lazlo Szuecs was a Jewish 15-year-odl living in Hungary during the communist and Nazi infiltration of Budapest. He now lives in Durango Colorado as a 76-year-old.

father taught, then realized he was better suited for a career in mathematics and went to John Hopkins University in Baltimore.

Laszlo experienced one of the deadliest periods of all time, and from that has learned the significance of how stereotypes affect our society. According to Laszlo, stereotypes ultimately influenced the Holocaust by building the base of anti-semitism, and from that came Hitler’s rise to power.

“Our current president is certainly one who casts stereotypes,” Laszlo said. Stereotypes, the deadly generalizations that can cause something as horrible as genocide, are being commonly implemented in our society today by our country’s leader.

Are lives in danger because of the overuse of stereotypes in our world today? This ques-

tion presents itself more often in our society today, and is essential for the youth of our country to understand the consequences of their words.

“Give those stereotyped people a break, give them a chance to prove that they don’t fit the stereotype,” Laszlo claimed. Despite his words of advice, Laszlo has found it hard to avoid stereotyping in a community where they are so heavily applied throughout our lives. This emphasizes the seriousness of how we can unconsciously destroy the lives of thousands of people by using stereotypes.

Laszlo underlined the importance of remembering the Holocaust and World War 2 so that we do not repeat those monstrous mistakes.

“We see history repeat itself,” said Szuecs.

Goodwill opening:

New building for Durango residents

Stella Walsh The Durango Goodwill is located in Southern Durango near Escalante Middle School.

Tierney Brennan News Editor Coming off a recent opening of February 17th, Goodwill fits right into the clothes scene of Durango. The brand new store’s used merchandise is already steadily flying off shelves, and DHS students are loving it.

“There’s a large selection of items, and some really cool finds if you dig deep,” said so. Timmy Chamblee, a regular thrift store shopper. “The prices are good; the people who work there are nice and helpful.”

Goodwill, unlike other thrift stores around town, was founded in Boston, 1902, by a Methodist reverend. He would collect household goods and clothing, and hire the poor to fix the used items up. Then, he would resell them, or give them to those who repaired them.

“I think the Goodwill was a great addition to our town; it really fits right in,” said so.

Bella, who often goes thrift shopping with friends on the weekends. “While it is a fun thing to do, it also gives back to our community, which makes it even better!”

Along with being a nonprofit thrift store, Goodwill also participates in programs such as Beyond Jobs, Senior Community Service Employment Program (SCSEP), GoodGuides, and GFC Learn Free. These programs offer aid to single mothers, troubled teens, seniors, and families with young children.

“One cool program Goodwill provides is for the disabled,” said local Goodwill shift supervisor Nicole Cyr. “They have an entire complex split into different sections where they work with people on going to the bank, cooking, etc, it’s a really good program for learning everyday skills they’ll need.”

The programs mentioned above function on a national level as well as local. Goodwill also pledges to aid community members in times of crisis, making it a wholesome addition to a town.

While there are many benefits to such a fruitful thrift store, it does pose a threat to local businesses. In that regard, Goodwill does go against the Durango identity. Shop-

March 2018

ping local is always preferred in this little mountain town as opposed to corporations.

“Some of the thrift stores have been picky in the past with what they accept, while we accept anything except mattresses and TVs - so we accept donations anytime you have them,” said Cyr. Goodwill makes it part of their mission to take every donated item, whether it can be sold or not. They have other outlets for used goods, such as recycling or repurposing. All items are accepted regardless of quality.

“In that way, other thrift stores may need to up their game regarding accepting donations,” said Cyr. Many DHS students appreciate the option of the new Goodwill, but will still continue to focus their thrift shopping efforts locally.

“Thrift stores have such unique items that you can’t find anywhere else,” said thrift store enthusiast Jr. Mia Rodri. “I would guess that more than half my wardrobe is from the thrift store.”

She was excited by the prospect of the Goodwill coming to town, but says she will stick to the original Durango thrift stores in order to support locals.

“I still think its important to shop locally and give to the local humane society, but Goodwill proceeds go to charitable causes as well,” said Sr. Sierra Kelly, a thrift store veteran.

Goodwill may be a chain corporation, but its charities and community beneficial programs keep it in leagues with supporting local thrift stores. It seems Durango will maintain a balance of corporation and local, all while offering a range of thrifting options.

“I’m excited to see more and more people thrifting because it diversifies fashion, and is a lot better for the planet!” said Kelly.

Ultimately, despite the local and corporate competition, everyone wins in this situation.

Goodwill gives back to the community, offers new thrift options, and provides a new source of employment; local thrift stores hold classic, unique treasures and support the heart of the community. Happy thrifting, Durango!

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Feature

ELDIABLONEWS.COM March 2018

How the College Board benefits from AP courses

Where the $94.00 AP test charge goes within the non-profit organization CALEB SIMONS Reporter

College Board’s stated goal is to “connect students to college success.”

The SAT dominates the college entrance exam market, and College Board administered it to 6.7 million students in 2017.

Durango High School dedicates entire classes to passing it with flying colors.

AP courses are touted as the leading way to prepare oneself for college, and the student transcripts benefit from AP courses listed on them.

In 2016 alone, College Board, a 501(c)(3) registered non-profit, made $904,834,000 in operational revenue, and an additional $41,900,000 from investments and other non-operating income. Of this collective $946,734,000 College Board listed $898,172,000 of expenses, and collected a profit of $48,562,000.

What’s more, College Board has investments (equity, real estate, etc.) that total $658,649,000 in value. This adds up to the total assets of College Board: $1,134,642,000 up $54,339,000 from last year. It’s difficult to imagine a nonprofit organization needing real estate investments, or accumulating over a billion dollars worth of assets from student money.

College Board is able to make its money off a both monopolized and critical market: students looking to do well in college will almost inevitably require some of College Board’s material. The SAT is the most widely accepted college-entrance exam across the U.S. and in an increasingly competitive society, students look to AP classes to distinguish themselves.

Last year, 522 students took the AP exam at DHS. At $94 per exam, College Board received just under $50,000 from DHS students. Reduced exam fees bring this total down slightly. The number of students in AP classes is increasing as well. 2017 AP Test administration was up 220 students from the previous year.

Darren Tarshis, assistant Principal and head of AP courses at DHS, believes that AP classes are worth it.

“Yes it’s a monopoly, but their product is a good one,” said Tarshis. It’s true that College Board has refined their tests and courses to a science, and they are an unchanging standard.

“Any high school can call something Honors English, but an AP calculus class is the same anywhere in the world,” said Tarshis.

The advantages of a single testing entity are evident to colleges, says Mr. Tarshis. “Colleges don’t have to distinguish between four or five different standards because College Board is the only standard in the market,” said Tarshis.

The question, then, is whether or not an AP course, or the SAT is worth the enormous amount of time, energy, and dedication that is required from a student.

Sheridan Brull, AP Lit and Comp teacher at DHS, argues that AP courses build more learning into a course than a normal English class.

“I think the rigor of an AP course teaches my students to be disciplined, hard workers. The AP exam for my class requires that you really have learned something in the class,” said Brull.

Brull finds that there is worth in an AP course that goes beyond the material gains of a stellar transcript.

The nostalgia Durango’s declining of dead malls: economy SAYLOR STOTTLEMYER Features Editor According to a New York Times report from January 3, 2015, “Like beached whales, dead malls draw fascination as well as dismay.”

The dead mall epidemic has proliferated since the turn of the century as societal changes were made straying people away from shopping at tangible locations such as malls. While this is decreasing sales in shopping centers, some “mall deaths” have had negative impacts on local economics.

The Durango Mall continually changes store selection in an effort to increase mall popularity, but changing market demands decrease overall profit and success.

Durango City Councilwoman Melissa Youssef finds that increasing internet sales are having a direct impact on retail and merchandise sales in malls, and she believes that this trend will continue.

The local economy of Durango, Colorado has been negatively impacted by the sales decrease at the Durango Mall, and the loss in county wealth has made giving back to the public more difficult.

“This [the decreasing mall trend] has had a negative effect on Durango economically because we don’t get local sales, and therefore we don’t get local sales tax and we cannot reinvest those tax dollars back into our community,” said Youssef.

While this pressing issue needs to be addressed, combating the decreasing revenue is difficult because increased online shopping as well as shopping outside the county is impossible to hinder entirely. However, that doesn’t stop City Council.

“Some attempts made by Durango City Council will be made through Local First, which is an organization whose mission is to encourage reinvestment in the local economy and support of local businesses,” said Youssef.

DHS Sophomore Dallas Young shops at the Durango Mall a couple times a month at

particular stores, and she claims that the lack of selection would increase the popularity of the mall drastically.

“The mall never has any people because of the lack of stores. Increasing the amount of stores would definitely bring back people.

I would like to see stores like Pacsun, Urban Outfitters, Pink, Sephora, and H&M,” said Young.

DHS Freshman Katie Rydz also shops at the mall occasionally due to the lack of money to partake in online shopping, and the fact that supporting the mall is fun and interactive when she is with friends, doing things like trying on clothes.

“The mall doesn’t really have any popular stores and it is extremely small. I think they should increase the number of stores and maybe expand to include another level to gain revenue and customers back,” said Rydz.

From another perspective, DHS senior Violet Wichel rarely shops at the Durango Mall, and prefers to shop online or whenever she is in a city.

“I think the mall is in a weird location and they don’t have great stores. I would get more popular stores as well has have more influential advertising,” said Wichel.

Violet.

There is no doubt that the mall has decreased in popularity, as many stores have either run out of business or shut down indefinitely. Some experts claim that the decrease didn’t stem from the increase in online shopping, but the over-retailing of enclosed areas.

The shopping center has several stores that are all similar, which can overwhelm and concern shoppers that their money was better spent at another retail outlet.

Tom Simmons, the facilitator of Kimco Real Estate Agency in the east claims that local malls will become extinct like Dinosaurs in the near future, but high-profile malls aimed at affluent Americans will remain.

“The genie was out of the bottle, and it was never going to come back,” said Simmons.

Maddie Dearien The Durango Mall is a deprived and depleted location in the southern part of town. The struggle to keep it alive has been difficult in the past years.

“They’re skill based tests, You can’t just memorize a bunch of stuff. You have to read well and write well,” said Brull.

Thomas Grist, AP physics teacher at DHS, agreed.

“The questions are based off how to use information, not just what you could get on Google,” said Grist.

The difference between Mr. Grist’s physics classes, AP and not lies in the breadth of the subject material. “[AP classes have] more depth, yes,” he said, “But in regular physics we teach more subjects… I cover more things that I think would be interesting and useful in life, as opposed to AP which is a set curriculum.”

College Board produces good products that help students and schools across the U.S. Their business borders on a monopoly, but that is not without its advantages. The lack of competing standards for College entrance simplifies the vetting of potential students, but this comes at a cost.

The products that College Board offers currently are high quality and accepted across the nation. If that quality ever slides, however, there may be consequences as we find that we can’t extract ourselves from the monopoly that is College Board.

Alyssa Robertson AP Language and Composition Students work hard daily while preparing for the AP English Language Exam in May 2018.

Life in the Congo:

violence and the effects on adopted children

Alyssa Robertson AP Language and Composition Students work hard daily while preparing for the AP English Language Exam in May 2018.

HAVENS WEBSTER Reporter You may think that conflicts all the way over in the Democratic Republic of the Congo may not affect us, but here in Durango, Colorado we have two adopted Congolese twins, Natalie and Josee McKinnis. The 9 year olds had to be taken away from their families and homeland to be protected from the violence that many Congolese people face everyday.

According to BBC News,“ The war has claimed up to six million lives, either as a direct result of fighting or because of disease and malnutrition. The government has been no help in this matter because all they do is take the natural resources from the DRC that we use lots here in America, and sell them for their own personal gain.

The Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) has gone through many tragedies and conflicts over the years and there is no sight of recovery ahead. A conflict of ethnicities has torn the country apart and has forever changed the DRC, this conflict has also affected many innocent civilians that just happen to get caught up in the violence.

“The DRC didn’t know how to handle independence.” said Mrs. Lemmer.

The Congo, once it gained independence from Belgian colonization, had lots of ethnicities which were randomly placed around the country. They didn’t have a solid infrastructure for a successful government, and their democratically elected President (Patrice Lumumba) was assassinated and then replaced by a dictator for decades.

Government corruption doesn’t help, as elites take all of the DRC’s many natural resources, leaving common people to fend for themselves.

Those people affected in the DRC are not alone, for the children adopted and brought to Durango, Colorado, have been saved from the violence.

El Diablo

“Adopting from the DRC was a crazy and wild experience. It was also one of the best decisions we ever made as a family.” said Darren McKinnis, the father of a local family who adopted children from the DRC. The McKinnis family adopted Natalie and Josee when they were only three years old. They say that this has been a crazy and fun journey for them, and they would do anything for those girls, although, one thing they can’t do for Natalie and Josee is take them back to their homeland to get back in touch with their families.

“The DRC is an amazing and beautiful place.” quoted Darren and Valerie McKinnis. The family goes on trips to the DRC for missionary aid and visitation so the girls can see their homeland, or at least something close to it. The family always has gone to the capital, Kinshasa, which is relatively peaceful due to the strict authoritarian measures of the DRC’s dictator, Joseph Kabila.

“They (the twins) desire to see their family, but they also trust our decisions in regards to traveling back to the Congo.” said the McKinnis’. The twins do wish to see their families but they know about the violence in the DRC and know that it is too dangerous for them to go back.

The twins were born on the eastern side of the DRC (where the violence is centered) and the McKinnis’ are guessing that they were displaced due to either poverty or conflicts, though still they get to experience the DRC on vacations.

Reading this story should show us Americans how peaceful our lives are and help us realize the dangers and conflicts others face that we are oblivious to. The Congolese people have faced many hardships for the past several hundred years. Unfortunately, according to the Global Conflict Tracker, the conflict status in the DRC is “worsening” which shows the years ahead for the DRC are not looking good.

ELDIABLONEWS.COM March 2018

Sports

Larry Nassar: Abuse at the Olympics BRYN VALDEZ Reporter

Following his abuse of over 256 young women, Larry Nassar has been sentenced up to 175 years in prison. Since 2016, over 100 women have consecutively stepped forward to report decades of abuse from the former Michigan State and USA gymnastics physician.

“I feel like saying a grown man abusing these girls is very bad, isn’t strong enough. He scarred his victims for life, and I find it horribly wrong,” said DHS dancer, So. Alivia Lake. “I know the victims will move past it and improve throughout the years, but with something like this happening at such a young age, it would honestly be traumatizing.”

Larry Nassar had previously worked as an athletic trainer and doctor, sexually abusing many of the young female athletes who visited him since 1994 at the earliest, many of whom did not exceed 10 years of age.

“There were an incredible number of enablers,” said DHS Athletic Trainer, Jeb Davis. “There were student-athletes, coaches, and other medical professionals who voiced some concern along the way, and there wasn’t any action associated with it.”

Characteristics of the case, such as this, point to more predators being exposed, as has been observed in Hollywood.

“With our current culture, we’re going to start turning over more rocks and finding more people like this,” said Davis.

The timeline of this case has also been closely followed by the National

Life of A Sports Fan Mo Murray

Before every game, the DHS girls soccer team gathers in a room together to talk about our goals and expectations.

We take turns sharing with each other the standards we set for ourselves, and the roll each individual holds in the upcoming match. A black marker circulates the room and we use it to write reminders and notes on our hands and arms to glance at during the game if we find ourselves in need of a reminder of why we’re playing or what we’re trying to accomplish, and how we plan to get there. I write the same three words on my wrist every time; “play for them”.

The most important thing I have learned in my almost 11 years of playing soccer is that my team is my family.

Having people behind you to support you in both success and failure provides balance and fun to the often times chaotic and intimidating environment of competitive sports. A soccer game can hardly be played for the personal glory of one person. We find our success through working with and for each other.

When you’re working with a team, you have the opportunity to meet new people who often become role models and positive influences in your life.

Mentorship from coaches and older players can have a large impact on communication, decision making, and other social skills as well as academic success.

Being a part of a team sport requires athletes to use both verbal and non-verbal communication skills in every aspect, whether it’s a team meeting, practice, or a real game. In order to find success, you have to learn how to efficiently communicate with your team members to take the next step. Being forced to adapt to stressful situations while still maintaining sufficient communication skills is preparation for “real world” scenarios where effectively communicating with others is essential. Those who play team sports also learn to listen to others even if they don’t necessarily agree with what their teammate or coach is saying, because it’s possible in every game scenario that another person will see something you don’t. Everyone will have to exercise this skill when collaborating with others past graduation, and working with a team gives athletes the opportunity to develop this long before.

Because competitive sports creates a more pressured environment, athletes learn important decision making skills.

Every decision a player makes on a field can affect the team, the game, and their playing time. Additionally, most decisions must be made in seconds or less within the fast paced course of a game or practice. Although these situations can prove highly stressful, it teaches players about being decisive, efficient, and how to quickly recover from mistakes for the sake of the team. Decision making outside of the athletic realm is also affected by team sports.

Joey Mynatt Larry Nassar’s abuse of Olympians over the span of his 28 years as a national team doctor.

Athletic Trainers Association, resulting in educational programs specific to sexual abuse victims, and how athletic staff can support them.

“It teaches people like me how we can identify the red flags of sexual abuse and then shows us the best avenues to help them, from both a care and performance perspective,” said Davis.

While the case is sparking more action in small communities and raising awareness for victims, they themselves still face the daunting task of addressing their abuse.

“The challenges for victims coming forward are numerous.” said La Plata County District Attorney, Christian Champagne. “It’s extremely difficult to be a victim in the criminal justice system, and it takes a lot of courage and bravery.”

In addition to this difficulty, even people with higher authority still chose to dismiss the claims and excuse Nassar, escalating the athletes’ suffering.

“I think with great power and success, people are given a high degree of leeway and the benefit of the doubt, so [Nassar] took advantage of that,” said Champagne.

“I am not convinced that you truly understand that what you did was wrong,” said Judge Janice Cunningham when sentencing Nassar.

With all of these factors combined, it seems as though our society has hit a breaking point, triggered a sudden shift in tone surrounding sexual abuse, and

Unifying DHS: HANNAH WILLS Reporter

Durango High School’s new Unified Sports Team is bringing the whole school together as they watch and cheer on their fellow students. They participated in basketball competitions between the boys and girls varsity games, where they were supported by the DHS students, staff, and family.

DHS has recently introduced a new sports team, the Unified Sports Team to the school with hope that it will rise and become a permanent team. DHS principal, Jon Hoerl, brought the idea for this team from previous schools he worked at. Unified Sports are for students with exceptional needs in our school and they provide a way for them to interact with other students as well as make new friends.

Specifically, Grand View expanded

resulting in many more women speaking up.

“I think there’s safety in numbers, and it’s sometimes too daunting of a task to come forward as the first person to make the accusation because unfortunately society and the criminal justice system can treat victims very harshly,” said Champagne.

However, now that many of the women Nassar abused have spoken up, Nassar was convicted of criminal sexual conduct and possession of child pornography.

As of February 2018, his crimes have landed Nassar 40-175 years and he is currently being held at a high-security federal Tucson prison.

“I think that the sheer length of time and number of victims probably enhanced his sentence, but each case is unique and you have to look at the facts,” said Champagne.

It is possible that if the case weren’t dealing with such high profile athletes and over such a long period of time, Nassar would be given a lesser sentence.

While it is impossible to forget the trauma that the victims of Nassar have endured, the recent unmasking of many sexual predators seeks to offer closure and peace of mind to them.

Furthermore, the county of La Plata is working to improve conditions and experience for women and men who have experienced sexual abuse.

“For being a small community, we have some great resources that will help victims heal,” said Champagne. “Coming forward may take a lot of courage but it’s also one of the most powerful things a victim can do.”

sports team creates friendships

exceptional students service group. He chose students that he thought would be a good match with the participants.

“I wanted to make sure I had a nice sampling from across different areas.

We have softball players, we have theatre members, we have a football player,” said Hoerl.

He believes it is important to represent all aspects of the school in activities.

The atmosphere at DHS is strong and supporting which allows these students to feel accepted as well as enjoy performing in front the student section. It really brings a lot of light to the program that DHS is trying to start and encourages other schools to want to get involved with the Unified sports program.

Sr. Curtis Salinger, a member of DHS’s Troupe 1096 and also a partner athlete for the students on the Unified Sports Team, believes that the team is

The students have also enjoyed being a part of this team after participating in mostly practices and playing against the staff. Not only is this an opportunity for them to get out there and show off, but they also get to be on a team with their friends.

Harry Egizio-Hughes and Daniel Ramos, members of the Unified Sports Team both really love being part of the team, but playing in front of a crowd makes Harry a little nervous. Daniel thinks playing in front of a crowd is exciting because he doesn’t have to play with the staff.

So. Jacob Rubidoux believes that the team is extremely exhilarating because it is similar to playing on a real DHS sports team. Being a part of a team helps them to grow close and that it one of Jacob’s favorite pieces of the team.

“It was like playing on an actual team. They are all great players, it is

Pictured above is the DHS unified sports team joined by their peers and surrounded by fans at Fort Lewis College on game night.

their program and helped it grow in way that nobody would realize. Hoerl believes it is the pilot school for unified teams.

Matt Clark, the director of exceptional student services and head coach of the Unified sports team, has also had previous experience with Unified Olympics in Aurora, CO. “A challenging piece was getting parents interested and wanting their students to participate. The difficult part is for next season, we are trying to get other high schools in the area involved and reaching out,” said Clark.

Hoerl also chose partner athletes to help get this program off the ground and interact with the students in the

a wonderful part of the school atmosphere.

“The students got really into supporting the team especially with kids like Cole who everyone really knows and Isaac and Ashley. I think everyone just enjoys seeing them succeed and just the mission of the unified team,” said Salinger.

Senior Joie Raybourn, another partner athlete, also really enjoyed the experience and looks forward to helping out with the team as much as possible.

“The atmosphere was more positive for everyone and everyone seemed really hyped about the game and the students themselves were a lot happier after the games,” said Raybourn.

March 2018

9

Joey Mynatt

great for sportsmanship and friendship, like Dawson, Nick and all of them, they are my friends,” said Rubidoux.

Next season Hoerl and Clark are both hoping that they will be able to involve other schools as well as begin to include new sports to the Unified team schedule such as soccer or flag football. All in all you can most definitely expect more from the Durango High School Unified Sports Team.

This team is about more than just sports, it highlights the sportsmanship and friendships that they develop with one another as well as with their partner athletes.

10 Sports

Senior Athletes:

ELDIABLONEWS.COM March 2018

goals, memories, farewell

The spring season has arrived and Durango High Schools’ senior athletes are itching to leave their last and final mark on the court, the field, and the track. These athletes have experienced lasting memories and friendships that will never fade. DHS’ seniors embark on their last seasons and have parting goals before they graduate.

ABBY SCOTT IN TRACK “One of my best memories was my freshman year at league laying outside on blankets the night after talking, laughing and stargazing. I realized I had found my people. Also, crossing the line in Aztec after a special 4x8 and falling into my teams arms crying with pain and joy when I realized how fast we had just run.”

“I was such an ugly duckling, in terms of speed, that I never would have imagined saying this freshman year but I want to win two state tiles. One in the 4x8 and one in the open 800. I know there are girls in the 800 with more raw talent than me, but if there is one thing I have learned is that if you can want it more badly you could win the race.”

EMMA VOGEL IN TENNIS “One of my main memories was getting wrecked at state last season because even though it was sad that my partner and I, Camille Jacobs, lost, it was so fun to see the other girls win, and still have fun while losing terribly.”

“For this upcoming season, my biggest goal is probably to go out with a bang. As a senior and as my last year playing tennis I just want to have fun, play my hardest and get close with my team again.”

GAVIN MESTAS IN BASEBALL

“One of the best memories I have had was beating Fruita at home for the Strike Out Childhood Cancer Game.”

“My biggest goal this year is to be all state.”

SUANNA GUSTAVSON IN SOCCER “ As far as memories go, I really loved traveling with the team and spending time with everyone. Bus rides and team dinners are great because there is not as much stress around them, it’s just hanging out with your favorite people.”

“One thing that is super important to everyone in our program is team chemistry. Last year we focused on building relationships on and off the field, so by the end of the year we really were like a family. I know we will focus on that this year because it created such a great team dynamic. Other than that, I think playoffs are something everyone is expecting. We made it to the second round last year, so going further this season would be awesome.”

El Diablo

ELDIABLONEWS.COM March 2018

Sports 11

16 years coming: beloved teacher returns to pitch CORBIN MILLER Reporter

Durango High School recently lost men and womens soccer coach Dalon Parker to coaching opportunities elsewhere, but they didn’t have to look far, because DHS teacher Robert Logan was ready to get back in the game.

Robert Logan is currently the teacher on special assignments and AP U.S History teacher at Durango High School and recently took up the newly opened position to be the DHS Women’s Soccer head coach.

The women’s soccer coach position opened after Dalon Parker, the past DHS Women’s Soccer head coach, was offered a coaching job at Multnomah University in Portland, Oregon to coach their men’s soccer program. Logan took up the girls coaching position during the week of January 14th, after being offered the job.

“I am excited to watch a really high quality team play, and have the privilege of helping coach that,” said Logan.

Robert Logan coached the DHS Varsity and J.V. Girls Soccer teams for 16 years in the past, before taking up the coaching job again here. This season, Logan will be coaching a roster of 37 to 42 girls, including Fr. Cameron Kelly, So. Elise Yoder, Jr. Kylie Phipps, and Sr. Taylor Klone.

Many of the girls in the program were coached by Parker for many years during their high school soccer career and while playing in DYSA. The jump from club soccer to high school is a big change for many freshman, including freshman like Cameron Kelly who have only played in DYSA. A new coach will be a change for many of the girls.

“I didn’t know Dalon very well because I’m a freshman, but I think that Coach Logan will raise our accountability, especially for the freshman, and I think that he can bring the program to a new level,” said Kelly.

A lot of the incoming freshman have only played club soccer, and knowing that high school soccer will be more challenging for them, they are eager to start the season under Logan’s coaching.

This years girls soccer team has three co-captains including seniors Taylor Klone, Autumn Stevens, and Maddie Dearien. All three of the captains have

been coached by Dalon Parker for the past three years at DHS and were sad to see him go; but excited to see a fellow DHS teacher take up the position.

“I think Coach Logan will bring some good change into the program and he’ll bring an unbiased opinion during tryouts especially,” said Klone.

Klone has played for the women’s varsity team for three years, this season being her fourth, and recently signed with Colorado School of Mines to play soccer.

“I’m going to do my best to encourage everybody as a captain of the team, and do what I can to help my teammates and coach,” said Klone.

Many of the returning players are excited to see what they will accomplish alongside Logan.

With a new coach comes new ideas and different styles of play. Logan will be bringing his ideas and experiences from his past years of coaching to this season.

“What I’m changing is personality and my interaction with the students. As far as Dalon’s expectations of how the girls play, I am going to keep them to the same high expectations, but probably change up the normal feeling because I’m a new coach,” said Logan.

Logan knows that the girls have always had high skills, and wants to keep and improve on those skill sets.

Many athletic coaches at DHS have played in college, professionally, and have coached at DHS for many years while being teachers. Logan’s 16 years of coaching the girls program in the past will set the team up for a fun season to watch.

“I can tell Mr. Logan is really into the sport and has a nice motivation and drive for the girls program,” said Jr. Kylie Phipps.

Logan’s passion for the sport has made him a very successful coach in the past, and will benefit the girls program a lot this season.

The season starts February 26th with their first round of tryouts and quickly gets started with their first game following soon after, where Logan will make his coaching debut again after eleven years of not coaching the program.

“I’m excited to see what he has in mind for the team this season,” said So. Elise Yoder.

Rugby makes its debut NATALIE DEBELINA Reporter

punched in the face,” said Cuenca.

The cultural differences between rugby in the US compared to Australia The Durango High School buildare explained by another DHS teacher. ing opened in 1917 and the school has “The biggest difference between the always had a wide variety of sports culture of rugby in Australia and the offered, and finally after 101 years 0f the culture of rugby in the US is: rugby in opening of DHS our teachers, students, Australia is more accessible,” said DHS and other staff members have come tolanguage arts teacher Gregg Cornwall. gether to create the first ever rugby club.

Expanding our cultural knowledge After students began showing interthrough sports can help open up more est in their past and hobbies, language choices for the future. arts teacher Mark Cuenca was joined by This club will open many doors into Durango High School senior Jack Hilthe world of USA rugby, which is a liard, and together they have started the national governing body for the sport of first ever Rugby club at DHS. This Club rugby in America. will consist of any DHS student who is “By playing in USA Rugby,our playinterested in learning to play rugby. ers will be a part of the pool which they When asked about his role in the select the high school, national team,” whole process of starting this club, said Cuenca.

Hilliard explains his Our DHS students part. might be able to play “Since Rugby is rugby nationally. a school club sport Playing a new we needed a student nationally popular ambassador to get sport is not the only it moving,” said opportunity afforded, Hilliard. as more and more Hilliard had to students are relying talk to Mr. Garland on a scholarship to about getting the go to college, creatclub approved, and ing a rugby team is once it was they another opportunity moved forward in for scholarships, the process of getbecause rugby is a ting other students growing sport in the to participate.

College community.

“Rugby is a hard This option could get sport but its pretty a student into college Tatum Behn that they might casual… Although DHS Rugby player poses on football field. not be able to go to you’re not wearing pads there’s actually otherwise. less concussions in “I am going to rugby,” said Hilliard. the Fort, I was probably going to end up Hilliard argues that rugby gets an helping out down here coaching as well,” undeserved negative reputation from Hilliard adds when talking about his outside observers. From a very side plans for college next year. point of view many might see it as more DHS Activities director Adam Bright intense sport than football, but Cuenca offers his opinion on the startup of the describes the sport as “Chaotic, But rugby club Organized.”

“I think it’s a cool sport, so I’m excitCuenca will be joined by Hilliard, ed to watch it,”said Bright. two parents of athletes interested in Other Students are excited about participating, and Katrina Cuenca - to these new opportunities too. DHS help coach the kids that are facing the senior Connor O’Keefe is one of the kids challenges of rugby, with each coach who is planning on joining the up and coming from a different position on the coming rugby team. field they will be able to get many differ“I wanted to get involved in someent views on the game. thing and try something new,” said Cuenca talks about his background O’Keefe. in rugby, and how he got pulled into the As DHS’s first ever rugby team is family like community of rugby. started, our school’s understanding of “I started playing my freshman year rugby and all the opportunities that of college, I didn’t really know much spread from it will become more releabout it, a guy just invited me out, vant, and might even get the DHS rugby and rugby has a really undeserved bad team recognized nationally. reputation. I thought I was going to get

Jenna Beckley Pictured above is Robert Logan who has recently chosen to be the new womens soccer coach.

God on the playing field:

Some athletes find solace in religion

es, she also believes that everyone is the same when it comes to the starting line.

“I feel like my religion helps me push myself, but I don’t feel any more conWhenever offensive left tackle comfident or feel like I have more purpose petitor Carver Willis gears up to reprethan others. People of any religion act sent the Durango Demons in football, the same on the track or course. Honesthis body was always in the sport, while ly, we all just want to be done with the his mind is in prayer. race,” said Peña.

“God’s got this, it’s his plan. God’s got On the other hand, an anonymous this, it’s his plan.” student at DHS gives the opposing During the November 10th game perspective that religion shouldn’t be against Cañon City, the act of praya firm basis for athletics. They undering was able to calm Willis down, and stand that while there is a correlation for helped him contribute to 49-21 win some athletes, there isn’t a performance against the Cañon City tigers. difference between the non-religious According to the Pew Research and religious competitors in a race or on Center, 87% of people in the state of the field.

Colorado believe in some higher power “While putting faith in God might and religion. The same follows with La work for some people in athletic compePlata County and Durango. With the titions, I think athletics should be based athletic nature of Durango, religion around the training that you put in and plays a substantial role in many competyour hard work and effort, not a divine itors in the community and at Durango intervention.”

High School.

DHS Freshman Ruth Holcomb Many students at DHS affiliate with competes in Cross-Country and Track a religion, and the FCA SWAG club & Field, and believes that there is a (Fellowship of Christian Athletes Saved correlation for some athletes and some With Amazing Grace) at Durango High sports, but personally, she doesn’t align School is 1 of 17,783 worldwide. with a particular religion.

The fellowship advisor, Justin Vogt “I think that it is great to have people has been involved with FCA since midthat have religious beliefs, but other dle school, and believes that the club than that I don’t think that religions gives an outlet to study religion in the have a place in the playing field and in stress of High School Athletics. athletics,” said Holcomb.

“It is a really great organization that Whether there is a correlation becan involve all kinds of students and tween religion and athletics or not, the athletes looking to find their spiritualiDHS athlete pools conflicts point-ofty,” said Vogt. view on the subject. Christian athletes Vogt continues to elaborate on his typically claim that the correlation is unpersonal experiences in athletics where mistakable, while non-religious athletes he used God to help him get through the typically are incredulous of the concept. tough times “God gives in games and us all free will rough seasons. to believe in “I believe Him or not. I that faith in cannot judge my lord and anyone based knowing that on their belief He truly has or non-belief. a purpose I have known for me and and coached my athletes great players give me and that are both other believes religious and a sense of extra non-religious,” confidence and said Vogt. peace throughBoth sides out a contest or are representseason,” said ed at Durango Vogt.

High School, Lydia Schertz and the healthy SWAG Justin Vogt, pictured above is the fellowship advisor of the member and and fit qualities FCA SWAG club.

DHS Sophoof Durango more Carver lead to many Willis thinks that his religion grounds students and community members to him before his games, and gives a sense align their religious affiliation with their of accountability on the playing field. athletics.

“I pray for the safety of me and my Christian football player Dawson teammates and that we can do well. This Marcum thinks that it is easy to be just calms me down. Also, I have never negative, and it is God’s challenge to been injured in a game due to God’s remain positive through hardships. grace,” said Willis.

Marcum poses the following question to Ariel Peña, a student at Cottonwood all non-religious athletes: Classical Preparatory School in Albu“If you’re not living for someone like querque, New Mexico, is a Christian God...what are you living for?” said athlete that competes in Cross-Country, Marcum.

Swimming, and Track & Field. While she has her religion guide her team and racSAYLOR STOTTLEMYER Head Features Editor

March 2018

Arts

12

ELDIABLONEWS.COM March 2018

DHS expanding real world woodworking experiences LIANA BYGEL Reporter Whether constructing a house, building furniture or cabinets, carpentry is an invaluable part of the community and economy. The Durango High School woodworking department is ensuring that students looking to pursue a future in woodworking have the opportunity.

The woodworking course carpentry, is an all year elective available at DHS. Currently, the students are working on a dog house and will eventually start building a tiny home that they plan to sell at the end of the year. The class is allowing new opportunities for students with a passion for the trade that they normally wouldn’t receive in most woodworking classes.

“I went into this class because we can get a great certificate from it at the end of the year if we finish this new program that Coach Smith is doing. It opens up a lot doors for jobs after high school,” said Jr. Quin Crist.

Through the class, students are able to receive an electrical, plumbing, and framing certification which allows them to leave high school and have greater opportunities for work experience. Mr. Smith has connected with the Home Builders Institute which allows students to participate in the pre-apprenticeship program that facilitates and guides stu-

dents in building their tiny home.

“The Pre Apprenticeship Program is a new program this year at DHS. It is one of about 300 just like it nationwide in other high schools and institutions. The program needed a certified instructor to teach the curriculum here at DHS. That’s me,” said woodworking teacher Shaun Smith.

Through participation in a program over the summer in Washington D.C. Mr. Smith is now qualified to teach students how to become certified In skills that will advance their futures as woodworkers.

“In each community’s Home Builders Association, the HBI program is recognized and deemed as a valuable and authentic teaching program for the Construction Trades. Carpentry, Electrical, Plumbing, Masonry, Landscaping, Painting, are some of the focus areas in this program,” said Smith.

Mr. Smith has connected with the local Home Builders Association to help students as they pursue HBI Certification, and move towards building their tiny home.

“We are so excited and thankful for our local HBASC (Home Builders Association of Southwest Colorado). They themselves are very excited for us, our local industry, and our local community for “Moving Forward” with bringing back the Trades to the high school

setting. There are a lot of Baby Boomer aged workers out there retiring and we need new and ambitious young workers to take the helm with the Construction Industry,” said Smith.

Through offering this along with many new classes, DHS is advancing their CTE (career and technical education) opportunities for students. Many of the students in the class look forward to using their newly learned skills as

jobs or even careers in the future. They have already learned basic skills such as framing and continue to learn more skills that can be transmitted to jobs, and building bigger projects as they leave high school.

“Personally I really enjoy doing carpentry and want to pursue it in the future,” said second year carpentry Jr. Brian Elvidge.

Maddie Dearien Two carpentry students work with their teacher to construct their projects in woodworking.

Band night inspires DHS junior wins scholastic art award incoming eighth graders KELLY FINNEGAN Reporter

Anyone with exceptional talent in the arts has the opportunity to receive recognition for their work. Out of over 6,000 art pieces, Durango High Schools Jr. Aubrey Hirst is in the spotlight for her work.

The Scholastic Art Awards are a big deal for students all over the U.S, Canada, and American schools abroad. They compete in hopes of winning awards, Gold Keys, Silver Keys, Honorable Mentions, American Visions & Voices Nominations, on regional or national levels.

In the Awards, students submit to different categories. Judges evaluate the work, and decide whether the art will move up to be judged on higher levels.

The top pieces will be judged nationally in New York City. For winning nationally, you have the opportunity to win scholarships.

Students in grades 7-12 are eligible to compete. In 2017 alone, there were over 6,000 art pieces submitted from over 2,200 students.

Aubrey Hirst has taken home five awards so far for her photography. She applied in seven categories, and winning five of those caught people’s attention.

One of her pieces is to be judged at a national level.

“I take photos that can be incredibly disturbing and in many ways even offensive,” said Hirst.

Junior Aubrey Hirst will be attending the competition in New York.

Three of the five photos featured symbols or words addressing gender and sexual orientation.

“They have a really powerful feeling or message behind them, which I think is why people respond to them,” said Roxanne Mitchell, the digital photography teacher, expressing her thoughts about Aubrey’s work.

Hirst’s mother, Michelle, also had something to say about her daughter’s pieces.

“The posed photography is generally to make a social statement and is often rewarded by the Scholastic judges,” said Michelle Hirst, Aubrey’s mother.

The other two photos that she took were of horses.

“I have always photographed horses because of how I have seen them for what they are; kind souls who are seriously unbelievable in stature, attitude, and overall ability,” said Hirst.

Hirst included this horse photograph in her submission.

al.

One of those was chosen to go nation-

“Every single photo I take I want to help define me as an individual and a person.”

The Scholastic Art Awards give many people the voice and the platform to show what they believe in, and it helps many students grow and pursue a hobby in the arts.

“I consider myself very passionate about social issues,” said Hirst.

She conveys her passion and motivation behind the photos that were submitted.

There is a deadline to submit art every year, and Hirst started to submit during her freshman year. She has won at least one award every year since then.

“There was only one other person in the whole state who won awards in photography, that won as many awards as I did,” said Hirst.

Hirst started this journey long before her freshman year of high school.

“I got my first DSLR camera for my thirteenth birthday, however, for many birthdays before that, I got point and shoot cameras in which I filled their SD cards with crappy pictures that my childish mind thought were great. So I guess I could say I have been taking photos for about 10 years now,” she said.

The Scholastic Art and Writing awards are the longest running program in the nation, founded in 1923 and lasting 69 years. They continue to inspire young adults and giving them the recognition they deserve for their work.

“Whether it is sharing my photos on Instagram or to a museum for the awards, I have the same goal: be inspirational, impactful, or overall I want people to look at my photos and think, “wow,”’ said Hirst.

Needless to say, the DHS community wishes Aubrey Hirst the best of luck at her competition in New York.

OSIAS MADRID Reporter As 8th graders near the end of the school year, they all anxiously ponder about the new adventures high school will bring. For band students, the Band Extravaganza hopes to clear up some of the worries they may have.

On February 13th, the DHS Band and all Middle School Band programs attended the Band Extravaganza at Fort Lewis College, a concert that brings students of all ages together for a mass music making experience.

The Extravaganza is more than just a concert, though; it is also a chance for the middle schoolers to get some sort of an idea as to what high school band will be like, and if it is something they would like to stick with throughout their high school years.

“I believe the Extravaganza is an important experience for students at any level,” said DHS Senior Chandler Jeep, who is also one of the drum majors in the band program.

“For middle schoolers, it serves as some sort of inspiration, and as high schoolers you are that inspiration. As a middle schooler, getting to make music with people who are up to 7 years older than you really makes you think about who you want to be and the legacy you want to leave” said Jeep.

Some of the teachers feel similar, in the fact that the Extravaganza and sticking through high school band is important to students. Molly Jensen, the Miller Middle School band teacher, was especially passionate about that idea.

El Diablo

“The Extravaganza is important for middle schoolers to see what they’re headed toward. As a high schooler, those kids are able to be a part of this music community.

Their leadership affects what comes up after them, and that’s important to remember,” said Jensen, who believes that being a strong leader is an important skill for everyone to possess.

“Even beyond this, it gives the middle schoolers a chance to see what Mrs. Reed (the high school band teacher) is like, and her teaching style and personality,” said Jensen.

“Through the numbers of comments I get from parents, I can tell that it has a big impact. They are all excited for their kids to be a part of the experience, and it also helps them keep their kids motivated. It helps them to keep their students involved,” said Jensen.

Both Jensen and Jeep agreed that being able to have that band-family atmosphere at your side through the years is important, and having it makes all of high school a little bit easier. Being able to have a large group of people to stick around with can be a big help to adjusting to a new school environment.

Mrs. Jensen was a firm believer in sticking with music in high school, and believes it can have a big impact on the person you are in the future, giving you skills you can carry with you for the rest of your life. “Music brings people together, and everyone loves music. Beautiful music makes beautiful people.”

Maddie Dearien

Arts

ELDIABLONEWS.COM March 2018

13

Saint Patty’s Day Edition

Compiled by Afton Mann and Emma Jaber

Positive

Misc.

Negative

Our Advice

Rating

On a scale of 1-5

food The Irish Embassy

MOVIES A Wrinkle in Time

TV Show Bachelor

Hot GOssip Snapchat Update

WOmen’s Fashion Fake Gucci Belts

Men’s Fashion Movado Watches

sports March Madness

Music Cardi B

March fun Shamrock Shakes

It’s a good atmosphere for chatting and catching up with friends.

They have good beer, but we are all underage so why does it matter?

Some people say Oprah the book is hard to Winfrey get through. We are is in it and hoping the movwho doesn’t ie will be love Oprah? better.

Who doesn’t LOVE Arie althe Bachelor?! It is ready has in the top ten for grey hair from most watched realiall the drama! ty tv shows.

Poor guy!

ABOLUTLEY NOTHING GOOD ABOUT THIS UPDATE

Everyone is deleting Snapchat. And we don’t blame them.

We all know what a real Gucci belt looks like. You can’t fool us.

You feel high up in society when you wear one.

A new trend according to the fashion magazine. They are bright and come in many colors.

A fun time for friends to make brackets and compete for the winning bracket!

She sings “Finesse” with Bruno and everyone loves Bruno.

Get you in the Saint Patrick’s Day spirit!

They are very bright and kind of send off a Play-Dough color vibe.

Really disappointing when you’re not even close to being right!

You literally cannot understand her when she speaks.

They kind of taste like a minty pistachio which is weird.

The Irish Embassy opened in 2008.

It’s a very young restaurant.

Go here with your friends to celebrate Saint Patty’s Day!

The book has been delighting readers since 1962.

Give it a chance! It may be way different than the book as most movies are!

Arie was not “Made in America.”

He was born in the Netherlands!

If you aren’t already part of Bachelor Nation join.

You won’t regret it!

Stories and snaps are all on the same page. It’s confusing and frustrating.

Have they gotten the message that their app sucks yet? We aren’t losing hope just yet.

You can easily tell if the belt is fake from the placement of the logo and the stitching.

These watches cost a whopping 275300 dollars! This is cheap for most fancy watches.

The phrase started at a high school until a commentator used the term in the NBA.

Your belt is fake and so are you.

Why not make a statement with one of these watches?

Get fired up and compete for the winning bracket with your friends!

Cardi is from The Bronx, New York City, New York.

Bruno makes any artist sound good so we don’t mind her. Give her a listen!

These shakes are only available in March.

Go get yourself one!

One man’s reaction to“Man of the Woods” JACK WHISTLER Reporter I never pegged Justin Timberlake as the outdoorsy type, but he wants the whole world to know that he’s a man of nature in his new album “Man of the Woods”.

The album peaked at No.1 on the Billboard 200. This is Timberlake’s 5th studio album and to be honest it’s not the kind of gem we sometimes see from artists later in their careers. The album is a drag. I can not even begin to vent on how long and repetitive each song is, and the lyrics to the entire album could fit on a sticky note.

It seems as though Timberlake is trying to sell this album with a nostalgic country pop feel, but it sounds more like nails on a chalkboard when you end up hearing the same three guitar chords for the duration of each song. Another thing that’s bothersome besides the repetitiveness of the album is the length. Each song is least four minutes. Why do we need four minutes of the same meaningless lyrics?

It also seems that Justin uses the woods to create unnecessary innuendos found in “Man of the Woods” which is almost painful to listen to. “Midnight Summer Jam” is far from a jam. Justin also tries to add a touch of depth and artistry to this music. Heard at the end of some songs and in interludes, is a creepy female voice that talks about doing weird voodoo things

with a flannel, asking if you can see her in the woods, and sexually talking to what I assume is Justin. First off, Justin, you’re not that hot.

Secondly, it sounds really out of place in a album that tries to create a hick and woodsmen image of Justin, and in album designed to sell to coony, basic people. The album tries for depth and originality but falls flat in execution concerning talent and songwriting.

According to Hits Daily Double, the album was expected to move between 300,000 to 350,000 equivalent album units, based on one day of sales.

If you want to create an album with more meaning and depth, maybe write more than a page of lyrics for it. It’s no surprise that this album is a chart topper, seeing as Timberlake has always produced huge hits with each releases. The songs are undeniably catchy, but one can’t seem to find any depth to the repetitive lyrics.

Some might find this album extremely hard to listen to for extended periods of time, while many might find many of the songs catchy and fun, but I’d rather listen to something less long, less repetitive, and more meaningful. Although it could be worse, “Man of The Woods” doesn’t really stand out like it was meant to.

Photo courtesy of Timbaland and The Neptunes Man of the Woods received a 55% rating on Metacritic while the 20/20 Experience got a 75%.

March 2018

Specials

14

ELDIABLONEWS.COM March 2018

Dogs: a forever companion and best friend CARTER REITER Managing Editor

This summer I worked a lot. If I wasn’t working, I was at summer practice for my upcoming winter nordic season, for which I had big goals. I’m quite certain that I could, on one hand, count how many days I got to sleep in.

While I still tried to make plans with friends, or find days where I could climb mountains at sunrise, there is one thing that I prioritized above all else: taking my dog to the dog park.

There is no place that I love more than the dog park. I love encouraging my dog to sit in the front seat, rolling the windows down, and playing music at a reasonable decibel so that she (my dog, Addison) wouldn’t be overwhelmed by any unnecessarily loud Taylor Swift playing from the speakers. I love walking our route, walking out towards the end of the dog park and begging Addison not to get into the river (because I knew she wouldn’t get out until it’s time to leave, that dog needed a full walk) and watching her get stoked when I told her to go swim on our way back. I love telling her it’s OK to sit in the front seat, even if she’s muddy, because who cares if my seats are dirty if I get to pet her the whole way home.

Addison and I went to the dog park at any time of day. Once, we went at 9:30 at night and, I swear, were in real danger of death-by-mountain-lion. More often than not, we went in the late afternoon, right before dinner time, and we walked slowly and said hello to all the other dogs, played in the river for long periods of time and I watched the sunset while she ate dirt and grass and drank river water.

We went to the dog park in all weath-

er, too. We braved rain, and a little hail (not much hail, because Addison was kind of a ninny), but mostly we braved the gentle sunshine of southwest Colorado and the soft breezes that brought interesting smells for Addison and loose hair in the face for me.

There is nothing that I love more than the feeling of changing out of my work clothes, putting on a pair of running shorts and a t-shirt, tugging my Chaco straps until they’re the perfect fit, jamming my unbrushed hair into a ball cap, and knowing exactly where I’m headed.

Obviously, in life as a whole, I’m not really sure where I’m going, but going to the dog park made me certain that I was doing something right, or at least tip-toeing in the right direction.

I believe that dogs are undeniably, intheir-DNA, good. They give us little bits of goodness that are vital to us, especially on our worst days.

I talked to a good friend of mine and she described how a couple weeks ago, she had a draining day: a nothing-going-right, feel-like-you-need-to-cryevery-other-hour kind of day. She said that the thing that got her through the day was knowing that she could go home and give her loving pup a treat, because she knew that when it felt like no one else in the world was on her side, her dog would be head over heels for the simple act of sharing.

Another friend of mine had a dog whose name was Huckleberry. Huckleberry was there for her when her mom died, and he reminded my friend to not take anything too seriously and that, every once in a while, a good dose of walking in nature with your dog to clear your head is exactly what you need.

Huckleberry didn’t like leashes, but he liked company and gluten-free pancakes

and long walks in the mountains.

Recently, I had my last trip to the dog park with Addison.

I think what makes losing a dog so hard is the fact that they never really do a bad thing in their lives.

The worst act Addison committed was eating banana bread from off the counter or licking someone in the mouth, or, one time, she tried to swallow chewing gum from the sidewalk, which was gross, but not really bad.

Needless to say, the good things she did outweighed the “bad”.

I towed her along with me on really long walks to really pretty places when I was feeling down and she wagged her tail the whole time, even Jenna Beckley though it made her This border collie named Zeke posses for the camera as he shares tail a little sore the next day. She literally a nice walk through the wilderness with his owner. licked tears off my face when I cried, and whenever she did, introduce them to people on the street so they can get the maximum amount she did her best to lick me in the mouth, of pets, but only if they want that kind too. She tolerated endless pets, loving of affection from strangers. Give them ear tugs, total gibberish words cooed to treats, but not too many, because as her, too many treats, and lots of trips to hard as it is to admit, too many treats the dog park. can be a bad thing. Most importantly, The bottom line is- love your dog as much as they love you. Get excited to see tell everyone you know that your dog is a really good dog, because they are. them when you get home everyday. Give them love and attention and kisses and

Mayor’s Youth Advisory Commission: bringing voice to the community

Special to ElDiablo from the City of Durango Part of the Mayor’s Youth Advisory Commission pose together at one of their annual events, the Youth Expo.

BRIANNA BROWN Head Specials Editor

Mayor’s Youth Advisory Commission was started in 2009 with former Mayor Christina Rinderle. MYAC is a group of young individuals who are selected by city council through an interview process to help serve the Durango community.

MYAC’s mission statement is: “The City of Durango’s Youth Engagement Program aims to promote youth and community partnerships, encourage teen engagement and cultivate meaningful opportunities for Durango’s young

adults.”

MYAC is composed of 18 selected high school students, the mayor and liaisons. There is a main board complied of seven members and two alternates who meet as a student board with a liaison and the Mayor. Also, there are nine other boards in which one student is on each board filled with adult commissioners. The main MYAC commission meets once a month and all 18 students meet together as a work session every month; making meetings typically twice a month for all commissioners.

“I heard about MYAC from my sister and brother. They both had done it all of

high school and knew about it because of my mom and her involvement in many different community boards. I decided to join because I wanted to expand my learning and I knew it was a good experience after watching my sister and brother. I also wanted to get involved in more activities for high school and my resume,” said Sr. Amina Youssef.

People seek to join MYAC for different reasons for some because they want to be involved while others want a voice in their community and others desire to work on building strong adult to student relationships.

“I joined MYAC because I wanted to have a voice in our local government, but I have been able to do so much more. MYAC has allowed me to advocate for the youth in the community in a number of ways, and it has helped me become more outgoing and involved.

I’m particularly excited about MYAC’s upcoming work with Local First—hopefully, that partnership will benefit many of my peers and the community,” said Animas Sr. Alma Wolf.

MYAC does a variety of projects in order to stay involved in the Durango community. For smaller projects the group goes around town picking up trash. For their bigger projects they have hosted an annual snowdown event for the youth in Durango to participate in.

They have also hosted an annual youth expo held typically in the spring aiming

to find opportunities for their peers in the community. Along with every year finding one or two new projects to focus on.

“I think through being a member of MYAC I feel closer to the community.

For example, through the youth expo, which is our annual event that expands opportunities for the youth in their future, helps bring our fellow student new jobs, internships and volunteer opportunities. It makes me feel extremely satisfied to have events and projects that benefit the youth in Durango,” said Youssef.

Many youth-adult relationships are made through Mayor’s Youth Advisory Commission. As youth work alongside adults to conduct meetings and complete projects.

“The Youth Engagement Program has multiple values for the community.

It allows the City Council and City staff to have access to a youth perspective on decisions and routine operations. It provides a voice for youth in the city and an opportunity to create youth-focused events. It provides leadership opportunities for high school students, providing experience that will serve you in the future. As an educator, I see this as the opportunity to meet and hear from youth leaders, as well as to observe your growth into leadership roles, particularly for those of you who serve for several years,” said Mayor Dick White.

teacher?

I decided to become a teacher because I always thought science was interesting, but most of my teachers were boring. If someone were to put the time and effort to make it fun, students would enjoy learning science.

What is your favorite thing about teaching?

My favorite thing about teaching is easy- the students!!! When students take the time to stop by my classroom years after they have graduated to tell me how much they enjoyed my classes, it is very rewarding! It means the world to me to know that I had some kind of impact on their lives.

What is one thing you wish students knew about you prior to having your class?

Good question. I would say that I want students to know that I will do my best to give them an enriching learning experience, work with them if the need extra help and that I love to use humor in my teaching. It is always meant to entertain, and never to offend anyone.

Why did you decide to teach science

above all other courses?

I love teaching Anatomy and Physiology because I am in awe of the human body and its capabilities! We should all learn more about how our bodies work!

It is a subject that allows me to continue learning even as I am teaching.

What is your favorite thing to do outside of teaching? Tell me about that….

Outside of teaching, I love spending time with my family, hiking, riding my Harley, playing poker and lifting weights.

Tell me an interesting/memorable story or experience that we could use to get to know you better.

I guess I am most well known for “The Shark Story.” One year at graduation some of the students who spoke at graduation mentioned the shark story in their speeches and I had several people come up to me after graduation and want me to tell it. When I explained that it would take at least 45 minutes to tell, one elderly lady got mad at me because I wouldn’t tell it to her! I apologized, but I think she was pretty disappointed.

Demon of DHS: featuring Monte Jackson

Stella Walsh Featured is anatomy teacher Monte Jackson

BRIANNA BROWN Head Specials Editor For this issue, Demons of DHS features Monte Jackson, a science teacher here at Durango High School. Jackson currently teaches Anatomy and Physiology which is a Bio 106 credit for colleges and AVID, but has taught a variety of classes previously. The energy and excitement Jackson brings to his class-

room each day is said to be what keeps his students intrigued. Jackson forms great relationships with his students as they know he will always be someone they can turn to if they need anything.

Further is a Q&A with Jackson to better understand him and where he came from.

How many years have you taught? Anywhere besides Durango ? If so, where and how long?

Thirteen years at Durango High School. This is my second career, so it is the only place I have ever taught.

How long have you lived in Durango and what brought you here?

I have lived in Durango since January 2004. I moved here because I would visit my Dad and Step-mom here during my leave from Johnston Island and fell in love with this place!

Where did you go to college?

I received my Bachelor Degree in Science from Mississippi College, my teacher certification from Fort Lewis and I am getting my Master’s of Science for Teachers from New Mexico Tech.

How did you decide you wanted to be a

El Diablo

ELDIABLONEWS.COM March 2018

Specials 15

Humans of Durango

Looking into the lives of local Durangotangs

“The first thing that came to mind was I think it’d be cool if we had twenty five hours in a day instead of twenty four, and then we could dedicate one hour a day, each day, to just loving.

Loving would be whatever is true for you. I mean, it could be like baking your friend cookies or just going on a walk by yourself. The hour would be wherever feels true for you. You just squeeze it in somewhere, but you’d have to designate it, make it purposeful, an hour each day.

To be more loving and caring, don’t be scared to be open.”

CHLOE RAGSDALE Reporter

Everyone in Durango has a story and each one is interesting and unique in their own way. These stories are what make us human beings, the things that create our personalities and our lives. This issue, El Diablo asked random Durangoans, “If you could change anything in the world, what would it be and why?”. Every answer was inspirational and showed the importance of remembering our more treasured moments in life.

“I would want to change the prejudice against those who are different. Because I mean, we’re going to have political differences and stuff. But making someone a villain or a demon because they don’t agree with you, I don’t think that’s right. If we could just acknowledge that we have differences and not demonify those of us who don’t agree, I think it would be easier to solve a lot of our conflicts. I’m actually pretty active in the LGBTQ, I am a demisexual, so I’m on the spectrum of asexual, and it is a little difficult to navigate the society. So I see a lot of that. I’m also agnostic so I see a lot of that from the religious tensions, which again is like if you’re not this you’re going to hell, so it’s like okay, hmmm? I see a lot of that. I would just say to have a conversation, honestly. Conversation can lead to a greater understanding and understanding can lead to greater tolerance.”

“I think supporting mental health issues and making sure that people are well supported and have the right resources. Yesterday’s shooting, you know that’s a huge one, and there’s more and more of them out there. I think there’s a lot more violence against people, women in particular. There’s a lot of things that still need to change. Especially PTSD anxiety; it really impacts people. I think that it’s harder to heal on the inside than it is to heal a broken bone. I used to work at the Safe-house. I was the manager a long time ago.”

“My wife always says when we have these little discussions about having super powers, that I think my superpower would be the power to give somebody empathy, to live in somebody else’s’ shoes. And so I think if there was more empathy in the world and people were more able to see through others eyes, I think that’s what I’d try and change. In Durango, there’s a chasm between people that have a lot and people that actually don’t in our community, and I think there’s a lack of understanding. When you have people, and not like it’s a fault of them, but they’re just not aware of some of the inequalities that there are people living in their cars, students living in their cars, and people couch surfing and their parents could be on drugs. You know, this place is pretty amazing, Durango, but I think there’s sometimes an unawareness of the trauma. Some kids don’t have things that a lot of kids do; we have kids who go on a lot of trips, who can go scuba diving and ski at Purg and have all these great things that Durango has to offer, and then there’s these kids who don’t. I think if we were more aware of that and able to empathize with people there might be a willingness to help those that don’t have the same opportunities. I would say to any American, we live in a great country, we have strong institutions, we have good law, but I just think sometimes people are not looking at others and there’s more opposition and disagreement. If they’re able to empathize with people I think that you can come to compromise, dream.”

“Someone on the street asks me that question, wow! I don’t know about change, but I would encourage people to listen more, and absorb before they react. And I would do that so we don’t find ourselves at war with each other.

I would encourage people to listen, because we don’t do that right now. Everything’s right here and accessible, and that must be it and I need it right now. I think that happens on a local level, with things like land use and planning, you see it at the state level with resources and how we spend money or how we don’t spend money. The national level has made it pretty obvious that we tend to polarize ourselves and not listen.

Something we have to do it to listen to our opposition so we can understand them. We shut ourselves off. You need to listen to your opposition so you can learn more and give yourself a better answer. I think that happens on every level.”

“Well my big thing is rules are rules, period. They’re black and white, and you reach a point where there’s no gray.

You can’t have gray. It’s got to be yes or no, black or white.

Because of no rules and regulations, people do whatever they want to do. Everybody is doing their thing. It’s just so sad. My dad used to tell me, he’d say sweetheart,you were either born ten years too late, or you should’ve been born ten years earlier because in the last ten years here, actually I’ll say fifteen, and not just here, it’s all over the world, it’s everybody for themselves. Somebody’s gotta put their foot down and say okay this is it, we can’t go anymore and let it go the way it’s happening. And in less than two years, and I will say this with much belief: you think it’s bad now, you ain’t seen nothing yet. And it makes me really sad. I’m a country girl, so rules and regulations. You can’t go around the block, you can’t please everybody. So you gotta make a stand. That’s the only reason we’re still able to do free things.”

“I mean my number one thing is always empathy. People really thinking about what’s going on with other people, and the way they’re reacting and treating other people. I think a lot of that comes from security.

It’s almost like a privilege to be able to think that way. If everyone had the basic needs met, and decent self esteem, so that there wasn’t this kind of push to try. They All photos taken by Chloe Ragsdale could believe that there’s not enough for everybody to go around, whether it’s being good at something, or even having food or shelter, or like status in society. I think a lot of what I would deem the negativity in society comes from that in a sense, and inability to empathize. I’m actually a counselor so I work with high school students and basically through the college process I’m always asking them what’s meaningful to you in life, so that’s literally my career, doing this kind of thing. So it’s being a better listener, all the time. I think there’s a very challenging balance between understanding we need to love ourselves and we need to believe in ourselves and have really strong self esteem and self confidence, but at the same time not having that being impinging on other people. We have to try to make sure we’ve empowering other people. It’s this self love balanced with ritualism balanced with empathy. I think it starts with doing practices that honor who you are and what’s important to us, but also being very intentional, like how I can I do this to other people.”

Demons Advocate: helpful advice from your favorite demon CAROLINE KNIGHT Head Editor

How do I feel safe in school?

I usually don’t give especially serious answers in the advice column, but this is something I know a lot of students have been wondering lately, including myself. One of the most widely spread statistics following the Florida shooting is that there have been 18 school shootings in 2018 alone. Everytown for Gun Safety reported that there have been 290 school shootings since the massacre at Sandy Hook Elementary School. Take some comfort in knowing these stats are largely sensationalized - almost half of the 290 were attempted suicides, accidental discharges of a gun, or shootings in which no one was injured.

Of the remainder, the majority included one fatality or no fatality at all, according to USA Today. This is in no way meant to undermine the seriousness of the Florida shooting or other mass shootings, but it may help to put your safety in perspective.

Additionally, as students we have a lot more power than we realize, and we don’t have to wait for the White House to make all the changes necessary to prevent such tragedies. Have discussions with your teachers about what we all can do to make DHS a safer place - ask your teacher if they haven’t had this conversation with you. Some things that came up in my journalism class when we did this were having monthly lockdown drills, putting a security guard by the West Wing Doors, not propping open doors for other students, and not letting anyone in if we don’t know them. All of these are small changes, but could help to make a big difference.

How do I become friends with an ex again?

The first thing I want to say is you don’t HAVE to be friends with your ex. Being friends with an ex can be good closure and also healthy, BUT sometimes it’s equally nice to not talk to them for a while (a long while (no offense to either of my exes, who are both good kind people and now, my friends)). A lot of my advice comes from personal experience, which is limited because I just turned 17, but I can tell you that after a long time of not being friends, my ex reached out with a meme.

It worked for me (I love memes) and if you’re into that kind of thing, it can work for you too. Worst case scenario, they ignore it and that’s their loss, don’t send them anymore memes. Sometimes people need their space, especially after a break up. That can be hard when you feel like you’re ready to make up, but ultimately it takes two people. Reach out, but be understanding if they aren’t ready to be your friend just yet.

All questions answered are real submissions from DHS students. If you have a question for the Demon’s Advocate to answer, or would like to comment on the column above, Disclaimer: While this column does contain awesome and soild advice, it does not reflect the views of the entire please email ELDIABLODHS@ El Diablo Staff nor of the DHS student body, just those of a teenager.

GMAIL.COM.

March 2018

A photo story tribute to our

National Monuments and Parks

Photo courtesy to: (from top left corner)- Jenna Beckley, Maddie Dearien, Joey Mynatt, Jenna Beckley, Paxton Scott, Tatum Behn, Paxton Scott, Jenna Beckley, Caroline Knight, Todd Jolley.