Chieftain
the
junior edition
April/May 2014
PO Box 10500 Montrose, CO 81402
Issue VI, Volume LXXXXV
April/May 2014
Campus
MR. MHS
1.
1. Stay in school 2. Get the best education you can get 3. Work hard
Pageant for guys Jackie Romero
S
Sports Writer
tarting out as a fund raiser for the Montrose High School cafeteria remodel, the Mr. MHS male pageant is becoming a popular annual event. Mr. MHS gives male students the chance to strut their stuff in a way most guys would never imagine. Pageant competitors open with a formal wear strut, followed by a casual wear strut, and wrap up with an interview. The contestants show off in an attempt to make the crowd laugh. “The whole school was watching, and it was really fun to get out of my comfort zone,” sophomore Terrell Banuelos said. Junior Diego Bogarin, who also participated in the pageant this year, agrees with Baneulos. “I would do it again next year because it was one of the best days of my life. I made everyone laugh, and that’s what I like to do. I recommend that more students do it next year because they don’t know what they are missing out on,” Bogarin said. Spectators also enjoyed the show and would like to see it repeated. “My favorite part of the pageant was how hilarious everybody was acting and how no one took it too seriously,” sophomore Bridget Pneuman said.
RacingFun
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Saturday, April 19, was a special day. Special Olympics held its annual track meet. Although the temperature was cool, the kids were ready for the challenge when the starting gun went off. The participants enjoyed racing and embraced the spirit of competition.
These three things may not sound very profound, but play them out over the course of 20, 30 and 40 years, and your lives will be more fulfilled. You will be a better spouse, parent and citizen. We invite you to be our guest at lunch and dinner. Gift Cards Available!
Special Olympics is a great program that is highly respected at Montrose High School. Thank you to the teachers and the students who work hard every single day within the program!
3.
Mr. MHS
02
Dear Students,
1. During the costume strut, senior Conner Huskey impressed the judges with his construction worker outfit and español. 2. Cat walking down the gym, senior Matt Sandoval surprised everyone with his half cutout formal wear. 3. Instead of putting out fires, junior Chase Darling starts them within the female audience.
Interested in placing an ad in The Chieftain next fall? Contact us at : mhs.school.news@gmail.com See you in September!
How earth day projects can impact our environment Allyssa Taylor
A
Copy Editor
dicted to be an interesting environmental club new next year according to O’ Bryan. “It [the club] is new this year, so there is a bit of trouble around our schools getting it to catch on, but my plan for next year is to start off strong and get as many participants as I can in this program,” O’ Bryan said.
GreatOutdoors Living in Montrose, beautiful places such as the trails in Cimarron Creek make for a great hike. (Photo/Tyra Amaya)
For some, living in Montrose lets them enjoy the pollutionfree nature. “I think the cool thing about living in Montrose, Colorado, as opposed to Denver, where there is very little green space, is that you can walk outside and see what you’re taking care of. With recycling and conserving energy, you can see that you’re benefiting every single day by living here. We have so many outdoor activities, and it is awesome as a resident of Montrose to volunteer my time to build trails that I will eventually use. I like to be in nature working with my hands and seeing a trail develop,” O’ Bryan said. Students in our community already use resources around them to clean up the environment. For most, it is as easy as recycling, whereas others find satisfaction in taking the next step to reduce waste, reuse resources and recycle. “My family and I do a lot to help the environment. We recycle everything possible including taking our glass to the waste management-recycling center since the city doesn’t collect it. We also have a garden that we love and even compost our food waste. To eliminate shipping waste, we have backyard chickens, where we get our eggs. On Earth Day I helped my mom clean up all the landscaping around our house including pruning our rose bushes. I don’t think it takes a lot to go green and help our environment. If everyone does something small to save energy or stop pollution, that would make a huge difference in our world,” junior Caitlin O’Meara said.
are not many opQ: There portunities for students
to get involved in saving our environment at MHS. What is People Power Planet, and how is it beneficial? The club is mostly focused on energy savings through changing behaviors, not necessarily changing appliances. If you leave the lights on when you leave a room, you are wasting that energy, which costs money. Instead of wasting energy, we can save it and use that money for other resources. What would you like students to know about this club? I think environmentalism is in and totally trendy. Riding bikes is cool, and saving the planet sounds cheesy, but its cool. It’s what hipsters do. They’re all out there saving the world, or pretending they’re saving the world. When I was in college, I thought fixies [street bikes] were so cool, but what I didn’t realize is that I was riding it so I wouldn’t have to drive and waste fossil fuels. Next year I’m hoping to start off with an initial meeting to get interest. I’d like to know what kind of things the students would like to see changed around campus. This club isn’t for me, its for the students who want to see a change. What are your plans for next year with this club? I’m hoping to have a People Power Planet revival next year. I’ve seen what works and doesn’t work and have had a hard time getting high school students enthused, but next year I’m hoping to gain momentum into this club.
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2014 May/April
pril 22 is a worldwide celebration known as Earth Day. Every year people from all around the world take action to improve the environment by organizing trash pick-up, saving energy, and getting involved with different recycling projects. “ASTRA does an annual highway cleanup that I participate in every year. The highway cleanup is a really easy opportunity to limit the litter in our community and overall help our environment. It was rewarding to support ASTRA in this project, and to be outside making a difference, all while bettering our community,” sophomore Heather Fredrick said. Many wonder how Earth Day came to be a worldwide environmental movement. It was during the 1970s that protest took place and eventually brought awareness to different environmental issues including air pollution alongside anti-war movements. The idea of raising awareness came to Earth Day founder, Gaylord Nelson, after witnessing the 1969 massive oil spill in Santa Barbra, California. Encouraged by the student led anti-war movement, he thought that if he could use their spirit towards raising awareness about environmental pollution, then it would bring alertness to the public. There are many ways to become involved within our community to raise awareness of the different environmental issues. “The [Montrose County
School] District has developed a club called People Power Planet, which focuses on changing behaviors to save energy. Sure we can change out inefficient appliances, but that does not save much energy when one keeps the lights on when out of a room,” MHS teacher Adam O’ Bryan said. People power planet is pre-
People. Power. Planet.
Tradition
A world evolved
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Local April/May 2014
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Montrose art show Student artists receive recognition for art work Samantha Huot
News Writer
M
ontrose High School students were given an opportunity to show off their art work in the art show held by Montrose County from April 1 to May 3. This was the sixth annual art show held by the school district, and the show represented important and skilled pieces of art work produced by students ranging in age from kindergarten to grade 12. The featured creations included a broad range of mediums stretching from ceramics to pastels to photography. For the students of Montrose High School, the show was an opportunity to be noticed for their artistic prowess. “It feels great [to be featured within the art show]. It’s nice
to be able to share a piece of my life with people, and hearing how they can relate to my photographs, it really blows you away,” junior Peyton Ayers said. Ayers was one of the more than twenty students featured in the art show, and her entry was a photograph. “Photography is my passion because it’s a way to express the way that you feel, and to express the way that you see yourself as well as other people,” Ayers said. Art teacher Ann-Marie Fleming spearheaded the event, choosing, labeling, and organizing all of the show’s entries. “When you know your art is going to be displayed, it puts pressure on you to understand what’s good in art and how to make your work good,” Fleming said.
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ShowingArt
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1. Elijah Helbling, MHS junior, stands next to his art work featured in this year’s art show. 2. Fellow junior Peyton Ayers points at her photograph, also on display at the show.
Needed: Montrose Host Family
Alena is a 17-year-old female exchange student from Germany who will attend Montrose High School for the 2014-15 school year. If you are interested in being her host family, please contact Janet Chapman for more information: phone: 970-240-9146 email: chapmanjanet@yahoo.com
Locally Grown Trees, Shrubs, Perennials Annuals, Vegetables, Hanging Baskets Soil Amendments & Fertilizers Gifts Certificates Available Hours: Monday-Friday: 8:00-5:30 Saturday: 9:00-5:00 Sunday: 10:00-4:00 12225 65.30 Road, Montrose, CO
Alena (on the right) with her friend on a recent trip to China. Phone Number: 970-249-2052
Students and teachers take up arms against cancer Gabriel Go News Writer
I
n some shape or form, cancer has touched the lives of many Americans. According to the American Cancer Society, over 1,665,540 new cases of cancer will be diagnosed in 2014, and 585,720 will die the same year in the United States alone. Since 1985, the American Cancer Society has sponsored community-based fund-raising events meant to raise money for research and improving the quality of life for afflicted patients. This is the essence of Relay for Life. Relay for Life is a massive
community gathering spanning the course of two days and centering on those who have fought, won and lost to cancer. Those two days will occur on June 7 and 8 in Montrose. Many participants hold personal stakes in the event. Juniors Marcella Cornejo and Cody Champlin lead the Montrose High School NJROTC’s Relay for Life team. Cornejo has been participating for nearly four years, while this year will be Champlin’s first as a team captain. “I’ve only been a captain once, but in previous years I’ve been on my mom’s team,” Cornejo, who cites afflicted relatives as her reason for participating, said.
Champlin has been part of Relay for Life since his freshman year. “Once I heard about it and found out what they did, it became an obvious choice for me to help,” Champlin said. The spirit of charity does not end with students. Teacher Desarae Jones is a breast cancer survivor determined that no one should face the same pain she endured. “I would really like to not have any of my family ever have to go through cancer,” Jones said. Jones is the captain of one of many teams in the Relay for Life process. These teams are responsible for the fund-raising aspect of the program.
“Last year, we did a car smash. We had a car donated to us, and we had people pay to smash it,” said Jones, whose team has raised $275. Champlin, whose team has raised $100 since its inception, is looking to generate additional funds. “We’re thinking of a rummage sale,” Champlin said. Over 20 teams and 124 participants are ready to rally against the menace of cancer this summer. “No one comes out of an event unchanged,” Champlin said. “Through the community, the committee members and teams… everybody comes together to reach this goal.”
and just seems like a smart decision for us to expand. Since we have had Daveto’s for five Feature Writer years, and we do business here in Delta, we thought we could former favorite is re- implement that into another turning to Montrose. restaurant in another town,” Pahgre’s is predicted to Hasto said. Although Daveto’s is taking reopen in the middle of May before the onset of the tourist over Pahgre’s, it is not going to change much beyond some season. “We do not have a definite minor updating. “They (construction workers) date yet,” Daveto’s owner Amanda Hasto said. Hasto, along with her husband, Craig, and mother–inlaw, Teri Alexander, welcomed the opportunity and put forth the effort to reopen Pahgre’s. When Pahgre’s became available to purchase, it felt like the right time and the right move in that moment for Hasto and her family. “We are just taking a business opportunity that came about
Sarah Sebree
A
have built in new structures on in the inside and remodeled, and it is just fresh and new. Other than that, the recipes will be the same, and we will just keep doing what Pahgre’s has always done,” Hasto said. Many Montrose High School students are looking forward to the reopening of Pahgre’s in May. “I am really excited for Pahgre’s to reopen because
I really like the food and the atmosphere,” junior Kellyn Alexander said. Not only are students excited, but Hasto and her family are anxious as well. “We are super excited to get back in the Montrose community considering we were, ourselves, Indians at one time,” Hasto said. Since Pahgre’s was one of the only pizzerias in town prior to December and appeared to be a robust business, some students were surprised at its closing. “I wasn’t really upset, just surprised at the fact it closed down,” junior Cole Simkins said. Those who have missed Paghgre’s will not have long to wait before they can enjoy it once again.
FollowMe Brandishing heartfelt words, Relay for Life aims to touch the hearts of people. (Photo/ Adriana Flowers)
New food businesses over the past year Colorado Boy Pizzeria Sal’s Pizzeria Downtown Gelato at A+Y T wo Sisters Gastropub Ted’s Steak House
2014 May/April
Pahgre’s returns to town
Local
Walking to remember, walking to fight
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Cannabis, legal or not?
April/May 2014
Voices
Letter to the editor:
06
Should Cannabis be legal in Colorado? Cannabis should not be legal anywhere, for it is a drug that contains over 400 chemicals. Tetra Hydro Cannabinol (THC) releases a chemical in your brain that can lead to serious problems. Cannabis will cause health problems in the state of Colorado. Smoking cannabis can cause respiratory diseases like lung cancer. Due to the impairment of the drug, the effect can cause injuries because you’re not mentally all the way there due to what are called hallucinations, which THC can cause. Cannabis
only one thing good about Cannabis, and that is money. Everything from the chemicals, to the effects on the brain, to pregnancy problems are bad outcomes. It looks to me that Colorado only legalized cannabis to get money. I was once offered cannabis, and it smelt absolutely horrible. I of course said no, because I have made a covenant to never put anything harmful into my body. I think it would be a very smart decision to ban all drugs together and take all the warning signs down. That way, drugs would be used less, and people would have a better lifestyle over all.
chemicals are so toxic that the effect from one cannabis cigarette is equivalent to 3-4 tobacco cigarettes. Cannabis can cause a greater risk of lung cancer over any other tobacco product. This is some nasty stuff. Cannabis can cause negative effects on the youth. It interferes the development of the pre frontal cortex, and its interference can cause permanent damage. One out of every six teens become addicted to cannabis. That can cause a huge problem in our society because a baby born from a cannabis smoker has a greater chance of being special needs. In my opinion, there is - Gabriel Taylor, freshman
Publication Policy
The Chieftain is the student publication of the Advanced Print Journalism class at Montrose High School. The staff of the Chieftain works to inform and entertain its readers. The staff understands and abides by the First Amendment, which protects our freedom of speech and press. The Chieftain is considered an open forum for student expression. It strives to express the opinions and views of each student at MHS. As student journalists writing for other students, staff members have the right to report or editorialize about hard issues and important events in the school, community, nation and world. However, as journalists, the staff must follow the same laws and responsibilities as the professional news media. Journalists must also avoid printing material that is obscene, libelous, presents negative stereotypes, presents a near or immediate danger to students or creates a substantial disruption to school. Our staff allows and encourages input from students in the form of letters to the editor. The editors have the right to edit for grammatical errors or libelous material and to choose which letters may appear in the publication. The Chieftain refrains from anonymous letters, unless otherwise approved by the editor-in-chief. All letters must be turned into the mailbox outside room 105. The voices section is reserved for our readers’ opinions. So go ahead; practice your right to have a voice. We look forward to hearing from you. e-mail: mhs.school.news@gmail.com phone: (970) 249-6636 ex. 4336
Chieftain Staff
Co-Editor-in-Chief: Morgan Nichols Co-Editor-in-Chief: Keenan Betz Copy Editor: Allyssa Taylor Section Editor: Joe Arebalos News Reporter: Gabriel Go News Reporter: Samantha Huot Section Editor: Alex Waege Feature Reporter: Sarah Sebree Feature Reporter: Savannah Estle Section Editor: Emily Annis Sports Reporter: Jackie Romero Business Manager: Keenan Betz Photo Editor: TJ Montes Photographer: Adriana Flowers Photographer: Tyra Amaya
Alex Waege
T
Editorial Writer
his year, Easter Sunday happened to fall on April 20. As some Montrose High School students are
Savannah Estle lthough the origin is unclear, 4/20 is known around the country as National Weed Day or National Pot Smokers Day. Some Montrose High School students skipped hanging out with their families on Easter to smoke marijuana instead, and they were not alone. According to 420rally.org, the legalization of cannabis in Colorado was taken advantage of this year, as 37,000 people gathered in Denver for the “Cannabis Cup,” an event that takes place all over the world and allows judges to sample and vote for their favorite marijuana varieties. Meanwhile, others can sample the varieties but do not vote on them. Though a number of citizens in Colorado are for the legalization of marijuana, others are still skeptical and are taking
action to make it illegal once again. On April 21, a national anti-marijuana group met with Obama administration officials to encourage the federal government to reverse legalization in Colorado and Washington. “It’s definitely not going to happen, and those who are trying to make it illegal are just wasting their breath,” sophomore Jack Bilberry said. Maybe, maybe not. John Hickenlooper, governor of Colorado, discouraged other states considering legalization of the drug. He said that pot does not make people smarter or healthier, and that the government should not be in a position to promote habits that are not good for people. Research reports that marijuana smoke contains 50% to 70% more cancer-causing substances than tobacco smoke, and a single cannabis joint could cause as much damage to the lungs as five cigarettes
who celebrate may not be aware of the origins of the traditions they enjoy each year. “We always start off with the kids finding their Easter baskets because after the ‘Easter bunny’ comes, he hides them. I don’t know if anyone else does that, but we do,” Dowden said. Bunnies are the ancient symbol of fertility and new life, which strongly relates to both spring and Easter. Evidence suggests that this is where the idea of the Easter bunny originated. Another common tradition among Easter celebrations is the dying of eggs. Historians believe that this can be traced back to Europe where, during
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smoked in a row. The mental functions of those who smoke frequently are also diminished. The THC found in cannabis disrupts the nerve cells and affects memory. In men, marijuana changes the structure of sperm cells and can cause sterility. On the other side, supporters of the drug cite positive effects. Marijuana can stop the spread of the HIV virus through the body, slow the progression of Alzheimer’s disease, slow the spread of cancer cells, relieve pain immediately (and several hundred times better than aspirin) and combat depression, anxiety and ADHD. But is that a valid argument when there are legal prescription medications that can achieve the same results? Though pot has no physically
addictive chemicals, and it is impossible to overdose on the substance, one can become addicted to the feeling it gives. “I’ve smoked for a few years now. I have not really experienced negative effects, but I can be forgetful,” an MHS freshman said. Safety is another problem. Being under the influence of marijuana can be dangerous and a potential death risk for the user and those who encounter one, particularly when that user is operating a motor vehicle, or a firearm. “I celebrated 4/20 by myself and then went shooting with my dad while I was ripped,” one MHS sophomore said. The debate over marijuana legalization will no doubt continue. Those who defend the current law in Colorado, however, should remember it
2014 May/April
A
Editorial Writer
aware, the date is also known for its connection to smoking marijuana. Although some students may have participated in 4/20, many chose a traditional Easter celebration with their friends and families. “We go to church in the morning, and since we go to Grace Community, it always starts with an egg hunt for my siblings. Easter is basically just a day of prayer and family for us,” junior Anisha Dowden said. For Christians, Easter is the day to celebrate the day Jesus was resurrected from the dead. With Easter comes a variety of traditions often carried on through generations, but some
Perspective
Praise it...
Easter, wealthy people would that could potentially ruin their give their loved ones fancy lives in the long run,” Dranberg eggs as gifts. said. Students who are against the Although 4/20 may be a use of drugs and students who popular date within a specific smoke marijuana celebrated the culture, the meaning of Easter day quite difrepresents “I think that people ferently. traditional Junior and alues should celebrate with vheld Students Takby ing Action their families instead the majorNot Drugs This of celebrating a holi- ity. member Rayear was chel Dran- day that could ruin unique, berg has a some their lives in the long and strong view people on how Eas- run.” made a ter should conscious be spent and -Rachel Dranberg, junior choice to comments on prioritize students who abandoned their drug use over family traditions. Easter traditions to partake in The next time Easter Sunday their own 4/20 events. will fall on April 20 is in 2025. “I think that just because 4/20 Only time will tell if the hype fell on the day of Easter this surrounding the date will subyear, people should celebrate side or continue to gain in popEaster with their families in- ularity over the next decade. stead of celebrating a holiday Graphics by Alex Waege
Photo by TJ Montes is not legal for those under age 21, and it is still illegal under federal law for everyone, everywhere.
...Blaze it
Graphics by Alex Waege
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Awards/Ads April/May 2014
08
Division Awards April, 2014
Front Row (left to right): Seth Bishop, Brandy Thompson, Megan Ruiz, Natalii Gomez and Joshua Adelman Back Row (left to right): Bryce Carr, Gabe Go, Tyler Peloquin, Chloe Peterson, Erik Galvan and Brandon Adelman
Class of
20 14
Dragon Tales:
Teddy Grahams: Introduced in 1988, Teddy Grahams were an all-time favorite for our generation. This cute bearshaped snack is available in traditional honey, chocolate, fruit punch and cinnamon flavors.
Rug Rats: Why did our parents let us watch this? It only made us want to run away and go on crazy adventures.
I think we all remember waking up every morning and eating cereal until you finally ate enough to get to the toy. Companies such as Kellogg’s used this marketing tool starting in 1950.
Did it even taste good? The best part of having bubble gum tape was seeing how much you could put in your mouth without dying.
Elementary School
Pre-School
Cereal Box Toys:
Who wouldn’t want to go with Max and Emmy to Dragon Land is the real question. In this halarious cartoon two childern travel to Dragon Land and hang out with their favorite dragon friends.
Hubba-Bubba Tape:
Overalls: This fashion trend was popular with both girls and boys. Pants + Shirt = No cracks showing!
Back packs with wheels: If you couldn’t roll your back pack into school, you were definitely not one of the cool kids. This trend was became popular in the late 1990s. How perfect!
Tamagotchies: Who wouldn’t want to clean up poop instead of taking their math test? This overnight trend allowed elementary age kids to take care of a cute little animal. After a while, elementary schools were forced to ban them.
Agenerationto
Nacho Lunchables:
Teather Ball:
Although there is no way this fun lunch could ever fill you up now, they used to be the best! Nacho Lunchables come with tortilla chips, nacho cheese sause, salsa, a juice box and some sort of sweet treat.
Teather ball tournaments used to be the most intense sport on the playground. The basic idea of this sport is to be the first one to wrap the ball all the way aroung the pole, the only challenge, dont touch the rope!
Middle School
Suite Life of Zac and Cody: Every girl had a crush on Zac and Cody back in the day. This adventurous TV show was based on the lives of two young boys living in a hotel with their single mom.
Kony 2012: This was definitely a hot trend. The Youtube video now has more than 90,000,000 views and over 3.7 million pledges in support of efforts to arrest Joseph Kony. Many goals were reached, but Joseph and his evil friends are still lurking in the
Starbucks & Pancheros: This might just be the most white girl lunch in the world, but it is definitely trending as we speak. Honestly, who actually counts calories?
High School
Silly Bandz: Walking around the hall was a whole lot more fun when you could trade silly bandz with people. This hot trend was popular in middle school and the beginning of high school. Shapes include animals, food, athletics and so much more.
Yoga Pants & Uggs: As if the 100 dollar boots weren’t expensive enough, you add a pair of 70 dollar yoga pants made by Pink and your set all winter long and summer for that matter! If you do not beleive me, just look down the hallway!
remember
The Walking Dead: The modern TV show that makes every teenage boy think that he could survive a zombie apocolypse, is an AMC hit and became popular in are young years of high school.
Kasandra Miller Sports Editor
Ella Lowenberg Photo Editor
Brenna Cunningham News Reporter
Kaylynn Miller Co-Editor-in-Chief
Attending: Colorado State University
Attending: Northern Colorado University
Attending: University of Colorado, Colorado Springs
Attending: Seattle University
Interviewed by: Kaylynn Miller
Interviewed by: Brenna Cunningham
Attending: Calvary Chapel Bible College Interviewed by: Brenna Cunningham
Q: I know you’re a procrastinator; is that your worst habit? A: Yes, haha, I do that a lot. I procrastinate because when I’m stressed, I do my best work, so that must be a sign. Q: So you aren’t lazy, you’re just a procrastinator. A: Oh no, I’m lazy too. I don’t do anything. Q: Do you have any weird fears? Like worms? A: I’m afraid of dying. I think about death a lot. Q: That’s really morbid... I’m not putting that in there. What about an embarrassing moment? A: In high school? Uhm, when I was a sophomore, I walked into the guys’ bathroom on accident, and I even went into a stall. I saw the urinals, and there was someone standing there, and he was giving me the weirdest looks. I ran out, and I was pretty humiliated. So now every time I go to the bathroom, I check like three times to make sure it’s the right one. Q: Do you have any advice for high schoolers? A: Yeah, flush the toilets. I don’t understand when I go to use the bathroom and the person that used it before me didn’t flush. You guys are high schoolers, do you really not know how to flush?
Q: When you go to college, what do you want to major in? A: Health and exercise sciences, minor in coaching and nutrition. I kinda wanna be a trainer for a college team or a coach for a college team. Q: So then, what is your favorite sports team? A: I like the K State Wildcats for football... they’re amazing. I like college football better than the NFL. Q: Are you going to be playing any sports next year? A: I really wanna play club soccer in college. So that’ll be fun because its not super competitive. Q: Speaking of school, do you have anything you like least about the high school? A: It probably has to be how everyone treats everyone else. We are all dicks to one another. You can quote me on that. Q: Oh my gosh, I know, and would there be anything you like about the high school? A: I don’t know, nothing. I hate school. Q: Haha, wow. So with that in mind, any advice for underclassmen? A: Just stop caring what people think about you. Just be who you want to be. You will make more true friends that way.
Q: Where do you see yourself in five years? A: I see myself working at a Crossfit gym teaching people how to make themselves better athletes as well as becoming a better powerlifter. Q: How did you get started in Crossfit? A: Well, my parents got married, and the owner was the security at their wedding. My dad started going to his gym, and then my mom went. I always used to watch, and I got interested in wanting to do it. Q: So, is there anything else inspired by your family that you participate in? A: We celebrate Hanukkah, because my dad is Jewish. Q: What is the best gift you have been given for Christmas or another holiday? A: I got a new camera for my birthday. It is a Nikon D3300. It helps with shooting sports photos because it can shoot five frames per second. Also, as a portion of my birthday/graduation, my parents paid for a trip to Africa. Q: What is it that you are looking forward to when competing at your world powerlifting meet? A: This meet is really just for experience, it’s going to be a lot different than a state meet or nationals. For this meet, it is based on your effort to help the team make points.
Interviewed by: Kaylynn Miller
Q: What field do you plan on going into? A: Well, after two years at UCCS, I want to study somewhere else and go into molecular gastronomy. Q: Wow, what? A: Haha, it’s cooking, but it is more about the science of cooking, basically changing the composition of food. Q: That sounds really cool. Do you have any bad habits, like biting your nails? A: No, but I do draw on myself a lot. My mom doesn’t want me getting tattoos because I would be fully tatted. Q: Yeah, moms generally don’t like tattoos. Do you have a favorite thing to do at MHS? A: I like hanging out in Mrs. Smith’s room for lunch. You can find so many funny people in there. Q: What’s your favorite movie? A: I like action movies and scary movies. Of course, there is an occasional musical that I really enjoy too. But, my favorite movie is The Corpse Bride. I love Tim Burton. Q: So, tell me your biggest fear. A: I don’t know that I’m afraid of anything anymore. I’ve seen enough naked old women in the changing room at the pool... I don’t think anything tops that.
Interviewed by: Brenna Cunningham
Q: What are you best known for? A: Being lazy. Q: Haha, I’m sure if I talked to people they would tell me something different. A: Haha, I don’t know. I think I am known for being funny, or at least I like to think I am. Maybe I’m just known for my self-loathing. I’m like Louis C.K. Have you ever seen that show? Just this sad lump getting into the worst situations. Q: Do you have a favorite thing to do in Montrose? A: Does anyone? Q: Sleep. I like to sleep. A: Oh man, let’s not even get into that. I was watching some show about addictions, and they were saying that you know you are addicted to something if you constantly think about it and even right after you do it, you are just waiting for the next time. And I think that describes me and sleep. I wake up in the morning and think, “Oh man, I can’t wait to do that again tonight.” Q: I think a lot of people are like that. Do you have any advice for high schoolers? A: Wash your hands. That is my advice. I don’t have some generic “reach for the stars” speech. Just wash your hands, for the love of god.
Q & A: Find out more about the senior reporters
Abby Padilla Co-Editor-in-Chief
Scorpio
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http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YCUhdQ3iZvA http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HnOIX6wbz1c &list=UU8kmC3Oq4cqk_4cmopMCvAQ
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Libra
Keep your friends close and your enemies closer. Never let anyone tear you down.
Aquarius
You may have had some bad luck, but a helping hand is definitely coming your way.
Leo
Let’s just say... This is your sign to be a better person and be nicer to the people who care about you.
Sagittarius
You may be under the weather now, but come July you’ll be feeling wonderful with the wind in your hair and the sand in between your toes!
Aries
You may be thinking about whether or not you should do something, and the answer is you should. You are not guaranteed a tomorrow! Go for it!
the Stone House and Ted’s Steak House for paying for everybody’s dinner!
firing the DJ at prom because he played two minutes over. Really?
to the juniors getting released early after ACTs! Too bad for you seniors and underclassmen.
to the vending machine breaking down. Time to open up the concession stand.
to hot days and warm nights! We’ll all be in shorts soon enough. Bring on the heat!
to the assumption that all teenagers party on prom night. Some of us enjoy the drive-in.
to everyone wearing red to support the Middleton family this month. We’re such a strong community!
to spring, only because the bugs are thick this season. Bugs are really disgusting. Written by Chieftain Staff
Taurus
Even if you’re feeling the senioritis kick in, keep going. The year is almost over, and so is school.
Cancer
Use your creativity and imagination to push you ahead of your competition. Show them what you’ve got!
Capricorn
Be patient. Someone may be coming back into your life, making your days a lot brighter and your smile a lot bigger!
2014 May/April
Thumbs up Thumbs down
Gemini
Keep your head up, Gemini! Things are going to turn around for you right when you least expect it.
Virgo
You have a good head on your shoulders, and that will really come in handy with the hard decisions you may be facing.
Pisces
Your kind-hearted nature and selflessness will take you far. Continue doing the right thing, and you’ll end up where you want to be!
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Prom
Promposal is the combination of the words prom and proposal. That says it all... It’s when and how you ask your date to prom!
Promposals
“I was at school, and I thought that Gavin was going to be in Utah. I went to get in my car, and he had the picture sitting on my seat and was leaning against my car with a rose. I was super confused at first. Then I realized what was actually going on, and I was so excited!”
- Brooke Cayo, junior
April/May 2014
“I went to Vegas for a week with Lindsey and when I got home, I had a scavenger hunt waiting for me. It led me to my room filled with 160 balloons and streamers laying all over and my sister’s keys were hanging on the wall. I went to her car and there was a crown on the seat with a note telling me to go to the Bridges Golf Course, and I found him there with a poster and a rose.”
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- Kelsie Hedrick, senior
MORP Week
- Kolby Martinez, , junior
MORP Week is full of gifts. Girls buy their dates a gift every day of the week. MORP is PROM spelled backwards, by the way.
“MORP Friday was Surprise Your Date. Josiah surprised me instead of me surprising him, by coming up to Montrose a day early. I walked into my room, and it was filled with over 100 balloons of his school colors, and he was asking me to his Prom. I want to give a special thanks to my best friend Kelsie for helping him plan this. I obviously said yes!”
- Lindsey Rummings, senior Page by Morgan Nichols
“It was a good time to be around my friends, and all the fun we had in the limo. Even though I’m not the type who likes pictures, it wasn’t as bad with all my friends. Our group went to eat at Ted’s Steak House, and we were a truly lucky because when we went to pay, an anonymous person bought everyone’s dinner. It was just an overall good night.”
Pre-prom preparation is important to most girls and guys. It can be really fun to get together and get ready for the night!
Preparation
Prom
Grand March
Grand March happens right before prom. The girls and guys, all dressed up, walk down the stage at the Pavilion and show off their beautiful dresses and classy tuxes. It’s like a mini fashion show as they show the Prom Royalty. “It is an honor being Prom King. It was awesome just being nominated, and it felt great. I think that any guy in the lineup deserved it just as much as I did, but being voted king just made my night that much more amazing!”
- Matt Sandoval, senior “After much thought, Irah and I decided to do a handshake with a butt-bump at the end. I was really glad that everyone in the crowd thought it was as funny as we did. Grand March was always super fun, and this prom was definitely a good dance to end on.” Photo by Adriana Flowers
- McKinley Kane, senior
Photo by Adriana Flowers
At the dance...
A big thanks to Valkyrie Pro and Kevin Masterson for the crazy music and light show. You guys did awesome!
- Haley Krebs, senior “It was such an awesome time! It was such a beautiful night - especially with my Little Dandelion [Emma Cooper].”
- Alfonso Perez , junior “There were seriously so many fun things that happened at the dance. The mosh pits, the DJ, the people, and definitely the chocolate covered strawberries! Haha.” Photo courtesy of Kevin Masterson
- Makayla Combs, senior Page by Morgan Nichols
2014 May/April
“This was the best prom out of the three that I have been to. I had such a great time, and Kevin and the Valkyrie crew made it so much fun!”
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Sports
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Girls tennis cannonballs a new head coach Keenan
Betz
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Successful season for the girls soccer team Emily
Annis
April/May 2014
Sports Writer
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Spring is a busy season for Montrose High School sports teams. This season, the girls varsity team record is 7-1-0 (wins, losses, ties). One of the varsity team’s main influences on how they play together is how well the girls know each other. “This year we seem to really be clicking as a group. The varsity team is made up of almost all juniors, so we all know each other and how everyone plays. It’s translated into a great season,” junior Shelby Kenney said. The varsity team’s biggest competition this season has been the Fruita Monument Wildcats. When the Montrose girls varsity faced off against the Fruita Monument team for the first time this season, MHS took the
win with a score of 2-1. “I think Fruita is our toughest competition this year. Durango, Grand Junction, and Fruita are always the toughest [competition].When we beat Fruita the first time this season, they said it was a fluke and they are coming to beat us the next time we play them,” junior Audrey Alex said. The varsity team played Fruita again on May 1, and it was their last league game. Montrose won the game with a score of 2-1 in overtime. The varsity team’s seeding for the playoffs is now ranked 7th. The first playoff game for MHS is on May 7 against West Central. If MHS wins that game, they will play their second round of playoffs on May 10 at home. “I am very impressed with our team, and I think we can accomplish anything we put our minds to. It doesn’t mean that [the games] will be a breeze, because they won’t be,” Alex said.
Montrose High School varsity girls won the Southwestern League Championship (SWL) against the Grand Junction Tigers on April 29. The final score of the game was 3-0. Last year was the first year that the MHS girls varsity had won an SWL title, and the goal for next year will be to achieve a third SWL title. The team’s hard work and dedication has paid off this season. The girls have become closer than ever before, and it has shown in the way they have played. Many sports team members often consider each other to be a second family, and this team is no exception. “This year we have really come together as a family, and I think it shows when we’re on the field. We work together as a team on and off the field and always work for each other, which really shows during games,” junior Stephanie Rowan said.
PowerSearch 1. Getting ready to for a corner kick, senior McKinley Kane looks for an open teammate. 2. Alyssa Arellano, MHS junior, follows through on a forehand return.
Co-editor in Chief
he girls tennis team had a new start this season in more ways than one. The first fresh start was upperclassmen joining the team. The second was a new head coach. Senior Caitlin Turner joined the team this season and learned more about tennis than she expected. “I love learning about tennis. It is a lot more technical than I imagined,” Turner said. Head varsity coach is Ed Kneese, while Carl Shearer coaches junior varsity. Having a new coach can help tennis players by introducing new and different strategies to help players develop their game. “It is great to have a new coach. It gives the players to learn something new,” junior Letty Bollinger said. One strategy has been to set goals for both the team and for individual players. “The goals this season are to improve as individuals. We also want to advance as far as we can at Regionals to be able to go to state,” junior Alyssa Arel-
2.
Photo by TJ Montes
lano said. Junior varsity players have personal goals they want to accomplish, including improvement in their all-around game in order to advance to the next level next year. “My goals are to get better for next season so I can have the opportunity to make varsity as a senior,” Bollinger said. Observers may consider this as a rebuilding year for the tennis program after losing senior players. However, team members are choosing to stay focused and build news skills for the future. “We lost a few seniors last year, so we are building up the team for next season,” Arellano said. The girls tennis teams has learned much this season about working together for a common goal. A key factor has been the two leaders who helped build the team’s positive chemistry. “Senior Kailee Quinn and junior Kellyn Alexander are the leaders for the team. However, we are all friends and try to encourage each other to improve as a team,” Arellano said.
New baseball season is swinging through Home field advantage for Brazil Opening Day is a great start for baseball Betz
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Co-Editor-in-Chief
“Every year I will get ready an hour before Opening Day and put on my cap and Giants apparel. My tradition is to wear a Giants cap and apparel every game I watch,” Perez said. Fans have their own favorite parts of opening day. For some, it is to watch the first pitch thrown by their favorite team, or the first run made by their favorite team. “The singing of the national anthem is my favorite part, because it symbolizes baseball,” Reese said. According to the bleachereport.com, there are at least ten reasons why baseball is the best sport. Some of these reasons include good managers, great players, and good comeback players this season. “Baseball is something everyone can enjoy. It can bring people together and give baseball fans a joy of having their favorite sport back again,” Perez said.
Five enjoyable facts for Opening Day 1. The Cincinnati Reds were awarded the privilege of “Opening The Openers” and hosted outings from 1876-1989. 2. Only twice during that time period were the Cincinnati Reds forced to debut on the road. Both incidents were due to the rain. 3. In 1990, the tradition for the Cincinnati Reds was broken when they played on the road against the Houston Astros.
Story by Keenan Betz
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he 2014 summer will prove valuable to soccer fans everywhere. The World Cup will begin this summer. It is common for people who do not watch soccer regularly to watch the World Cup because they want to cheer for their country. The World Cup will be held in Brazil, which is known for an excellent soccer team of its own set to compete in the World Cup. Since the event is being held in Brazil, the team will have the home field advantage. “I believe Brazil will have a slight advantage playing at home, and with the amount of quality players they have on their team, I believe they will be a top contender to win,” senior Brice Keefer said. The United States also has a good soccer team. They are a tough team to compete against and will fight to win the World Cup for the first time in men’s soccer. “This is the USA’s best chance they have had. They have a lot of new players mixed with veteran players,” Keefer said. Those living in America do not always cheer for the United States soccer team, because people from other countries live in the United States and have allegiance to their home country’s team. Sometimes fans will cheer for a different country simply because they admire the team.
4. The Cincinnati Reds have a 50-52-1 record on Opening Day. 5. Opening Day is known for the “Political Pitchers” arena where U.S. presidents show off their pitching skills.
Baseball Graphic by Kambria Kennedy
“I like to cheer for England and the United States, but after that, I like to cheer for the underdogs,” junior Matthew Holden said. There have been issues surrounding Brazil as the host of the World Cup. The first is money. According to americasquarterly.org, the World Cup will cost Brazil $13.3 billion and will only generate about $5 billion because most of the revenue will go to FIFA, Fédération Internationale de Football Association. Another issue is Brazil’s citizens. Many who live near the sites of the stadiums are having to move by order of the Brazilian government. The Brazilians are complaining about their living conditions and how they now have to find new homes. “I know that people from Brazil are complaining about how their government is putting too much work and money into the World Cup, while the rest of the nation is in poverty,” Keefer said. Holden is also aware of these issues. “I know that there have been a lot of protests from the Brazilian people because their homes were being destroyed to build stadiums,” Holden said. The last issue involves the controversial stadiums. Brazil has faced challenges from funding to finding suitable locations for the structures. “I know that the Maracana stadium had some problems resulting in a couple of people dying,” Keefer said.
2014 May/April
t is that time of year when fans watch crazy pitches and slides for baseball. Baseball has begun, and Opening Day provided plenty of excitement. Some people do not watch baseball on television because they consider it boring. Major League Baseball wanted to make Opening Day for baseball special. They even included a creative commercial that could be viewed on multiple sources. “It is special because it is America’s pastime. It is an opportunity for MLB fans all around the world to be able to watch baseball. It is a fresh start for fans and teams alike,” junior Josue Perez said. People who love watching baseball typically love Opening Day for several reasons, including how their favorite team played on Opening Day, how many runs were made, and how all the games turned out on
baseball’s big day. “I am excited and anxious to see how the year plays out. Every year there is something new, and this year will hopefully bring some good memories,” Perez said. People living in Colorado like to cheer for the Colorado Rockies. However, there are people who cheer for different teams. For instance, Perez is a San Francisco Giants fan. “The Giants actually won their Opening Day game. It is always nice to win on Opening Day. I also watched Opening Day because it was great to see the MLB get back into action,” Perez said. Many fans have traditions for their teams. These traditions can consist of draft day, to opening day, or making it to the playoffs. “My tradition is watching the Rockies play on Opening Day for baseball,” junior Brayden Reese said. Perez has a special tradition for Opening Day for every season.
Sports
Keenan
Brazilians complaining about the World Cup
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Soccer Ball Graphic by Keenan Betz
Girl’s golf team swinging to work as a unit
April/May 2014
Sports
Keenan
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Betz
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Co-Editor-in-Chief
he girl’s golf team is coming together and having great chemistry after losing four seniors last season. However, this season the team has found success in working together. The star player from last season was senior Kayla Keltz. She was superb force in helping the golf team win tournaments and she completed many individual awards. The golf team has learned to play as a unit without Keltz. “It is different not playing with Kayla but change is good. Even though we lost four great seniors our team has great potential as we have showed this season,” junior Bethany Wells said. Change is not always easy for any team. So to lose four seniors and to play at the level the golf team has shown is great. “The team has came together to work hard and reloaded this season. We are still just as strong without her,” junior Sierra Wilson said. The season has gone well for Montrose high school golf team. They have accomplished a lot this season. The team has done well this season by working together. “The team chemistry is pretty good. We all are very good at not having any drama during practice or during the tournaments. We are good at making it feel like a family when we are together,” Wilson said. The team’s season has gone well. The girl’s golf team has taken first place seven out of eight tournaments. However, the team is keeping their focus as they are not worried about the wins.
“We are not always looking to take first. We realize what we need to work on and focus on those things at the next tournament,” Wells said. The team has made great strides and improvements throughout the season. The team works together to help each other improve their game. The reason for the team’s success has been their perseverance in improving their game. “There is always room for improvement. Golf is such a hard sport physically and mentally. There is no perfect with golf and it is so hard to keep your head in the game while trying to have a perfect swing and stay positive throughout the round, ” Wilson said. The team has accomplished many goals this season. However, the team have had players accomplish some individual awards. One of these accomplishments would be making the team for Regionals as there are only four spots. These people include; senior Jordan Cherry, senior Chelsea Peterson, junior Mikayla McKie and junior Brooke Brennecke. Brennecke who beat out Wells for the fourth spot on the team. “I was fighting for the fourth spot on the regional team with Brooke and after our last two tournaments Brooke pulled through and got the fourth spot. She deserves the spot, and I will be rooting her on at Regionals and state along with the others,” Wells said. The girl’s golf team took first place at Regionals. They will bring all four players from Regionals to compete at state. “Our goal is to go play the first day and put our best numbers up and evaluate after our first day. There is also no pressure on us where we have to win,” head coach Jim Scarry.
Family comesBoys first baseball like a family Story written by: Keenan Betz
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had success for the last few seasons. The team’s friendship makes the environment easier to work together. “It gives us the ability to not get butt hurt if another person critiques us on how we are playing,” junior Cayden James said. The Montrose baseball team has continued to have a great start to the season. They have continued to prove that they are a tough opponent to beat on the road or at home. “We have a hot start by doing the little things and by having good defense and having the big hits when we needed it,” Lopez said. There is always room for improvement for the baseball team. The baseball team is always finding something to improve on. “We have worked really hard in the off season to be prepared for this season and we really focused on the little things and got our fundamentals down and that has allowed us to get off to a good start,” Zarkis said.
Some of the baseball team’s goals this season are still unaccomplished. One of these goals is to go further into the playoffs. “The team’s goals are to just keep our focus and do not ease up on our competition and hopefully get back to state,” Zarkis said. Not only does the team want to go further into the playoffs they want to do better in the playoffs this season. “During the playoffs we just want to get back to Montrose Indians baseball use our speed and great defense, to never give up, to be focused, and to fight our hearts out until the end,” Lopez said. The team is 13-3 overall and 7-3 in league play. Heading into state playoffs, the boys are ranked 9th and are excited about the playoff challenge. Also foremost in their minds is doing something important for their teammate and friend lost earlier in the year. “We are going to win this season for Garret,” James said.
here are many reasons to the boy’s baseball success against their opponents. One of the biggest reasons for their success is the baseball team is like a family. The team does stuff together outside of games. It also helps the team grow and bond together. “It has started since little league. We have either played with each other or have been on the same team. Over the years we have became good friends,” senior Tyrus Lopez said. They do many activities together to help build their teamwork. Being good friends outside of baseball makes it easier for the players to work together as team. “It definitely helps us be more connected, giving us the confidence to play better as a team,” sophomore Jarrod Zarkis said. The impact of being friends can help create a successful season. Since the team has been friends for years the team has LookingOnward 1. Throwing in perfect form, Tyrus Lopez looks to get strike against the batter. (Photo/Adriana Flowers) 2. Finishing her swing, senior Chelsea Peterson looks to see where her ball landed. (Photo Courtesy/Craig Peterson)
ue Students contin gacies their parents’ le
LaurieBrooks Laurie Brooks poses for her individual basketball photo when she went to school at MHS in 1981-1983.
Holly Brooks, daughter of Laurie Brooks, currently plays basketball and soccer for MHS.
or as long as Montrose has had a high school, there have also been high school sports. Many previous MHS student athletes now have children who also play a sport at MHS. This creates an unbreakable bond between the student and the parent. One student who decided to follow in her mother’s footsteps is sophomore Holly Brooks. Holly plays basketball and soccer at MHS. Back in the day Holly’s mom, Laurie Brooks, played volleyball and basketball as well as ran track for Montrose. “It’s pretty cool, because I kind of get to relive the experiences that she had as a high school player, and she tells me stories about it,” Holly said. Both Holly and Laurie were point guards for the MHS basketball team, but Laurie was the better passer and Holly is the stronger shooter. Holly and Laurie have always had a powerful connection through basketball. Holly is even more passionate about basketball and strives to impress her mother. “Basketball is something we have done together forever, and my mom has been my coach for as long as I have played,” said Holly. “I still would have loved it [basketball], but she was the one who got me interested in it. I was always in the gym even when I was little, just hanging around the players and being in the basketball atmosphere.” Many high school athletes have been playing the sport for as long as they can remember. Commonly, parents involve their children in sports from a young age. “I bought [Holly] a Little Tykes basketball rim when she was two, and she used to say ‘Mom, watch!,’ all the time, which she still says. Then I signed her up to
2014 May/April
HollyBrooks
Sports Writer
Athletes
Then F Now TO
Emily Annis
play Biddy Basketball through the Rec department when she was five. I signed her up for MAC basketball when she turned six, and she has played ever since,” Laurie said. Another student that is continuing her mother’s legacy is freshman Shelena Hawks, daughter of Brenda Kae Hawks. “It’s cool to play [at the same high school] because you know that you’re following in your parent’s footsteps and playing on the same ground,” Shelena said. Shelena plays volleyball and basketball, and runs track. Brenda played volleyball and basketball when she went to school at MHS. Both Shelena and Brenda were point guards and wings in basketball. In volleyball, Brenda was a bumper and a spikier; Shelena is a bumper. “My mom and I bond a lot over sports. She gives me a lot of tips on how I can grow and improve as an athlete,” Shelena said. Many young athletes who have parents who are former athletes find a connection through sports. “I go to all of Shelena’s games, and we talk about sports together a lot. It gives us another thing to bond over,” Brenda said. Participation in high school sports builds lifelong memories that are passed along through photos and stories shared with families and friends. “I used to show Shelena pictures of me playing basketball and volleyball, and since she plays, we can sort of compare them,” Brenda said. In the future, Montrose High School athletes’ children may continue their families’ legacies by playing the same sports as their parents.
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Get outside...
Photos by Tyra Amaya
In memory of Garret Middleton February 6, 1999 - April 19, 2014
Garret was born on February 6, 1999, to his wonderful family including his mother and father, and his sister, Chelsea. Garret loved outdoor activities including fishing and hunting, as well as hanging out with his friends after school and practice. Garret was an active person. He was No. 9 on the baseball field, No. 50 on the football field, and No. 10 in basketball. Garret received recognition in the 2013 edition of The Best Players in Babe Ruth League. Being the kind of person he was, Garret had an unique trait that made people smile. He stood up for others when they were being picked on, he always cracked jokes, and he could make anybody’s day better. After school and practice, Garret could often be found practicing with his bow. His kindness touched everyone he knew, and his name will never be forgotten in the halls of Montrose High School. No one will ever know why God took you the way he did, or the day he did, but I know he couldn’t have gained a more perfect angel. -- Brooke Eckerman