Eagleeye.2010-2011.no.5

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Vista

Mountain Vista High School 10585 Mountain Vista Ridge Highlands Ranch, Colo. | 80126 Issue 5 | Vol. 10 | May 02, 2011 www.vistanow.org

Class of 2011

college decisions |

Gary Klatt |

31

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BrianBrian Shin Shin |5 |

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A Capella |

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table of contents Brian | Shin

One senior tackles five AP exams and faces an Ivy League decision

Raves

Separating fact from fiction: what really goes on

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8

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Paying | for | college What to do with that ugly tuition bill

9 College | decisions Seniors share their plans after Vista

16-17 Summer | work How to get that dreaded summer job

18-19 Critique

Vista’s “Evening of the Arts” production is given a grade

12-13

21 A | Capella

Teen | pregnancy One girl shares her close call

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Students who have different post-Vista plans share their paths into the future

How two students formed a new organization

1,400 student drivers who have had their licences taken away

An ode to the Class of 2011

7 No | college Spanish | NHS

Revoked

Editorial

Looking at men’s choir and previewing “Goldust”

Gabi | Capocelli

Student takes action to make a change

24 Blogs

A new form of student expression

26 Bro | life

Dissecting the lifestyle of the “lax” brothers

29 Girls’ | soccer

Catching up with the number one team in the state

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22 Gary | Klatt

Former Marine Corps officer overcomes leukemia to coach

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| Junior Eric Wright pole vaults during a track and field practice. Check out page 31 to find out more about the track team’s coach, who has overcome many obstacles to do the thing he loves.

Photo by Amy Markowski

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I got your back

Tommy Ryan, sophomore,

gives a “piggy-back” ride to Saif Khan, an eighth grader, at the gates of Coors Field April 7 while waiting for a tour of the stadium. “(I’m) absolutely not (a Rockies fan). Yankees and Derek Jeter all the way,” Ryan said.

Photo by Sierra Thornleyy


Word

May

Madness

Senior Brian Shin prepares for a second year of five AP exams

H Jake | Smith

Harvard, Princeton and Yale. Those prestigious universities were senior Brian Shin’s finalists in terms of his college search. Yes, his finalists. Shin will be attending Harvard University in the fall. How? Well, it comes as a result of him challenging himself, as evidenced by taking five Advanced Placement classes not only his junior year, but also his senior year. That also means engaging in 10 AP tests, five of which he took and passed his junior year. This year, Shin is taking AP Environmental Science, AP Biology, AP Computer Science AB, AP Government and AP Literature and Composition. He said that his AP classes during his junior year prepared him for his AP classes and exams this year, as indicated by Shin’s stress level. “I’m a little bit nervous (for AP testing this year), but definitely not as much as last year. There’s not as much

pressure as last year,” Shin said. “It’s not going to be a new experience.” He noted that he still will, of course, study for his AP tests this year, but he has a better feel for the AP testing situation than he did in his junior year. “Bottom line, mostly it’s throughout-the-year studying,” Shin said. “You need repetition and a lot of review (to pass AP exams). Most of the time, you basically know how prepared you are for the test.” Biology teacher Brad Shores said Shin is definitely capable of passing all of his AP exams, and he is not surprised that Shin has so much academic prowess. “He (Shin) is a really hard worker, which goes well with his intellectual abilities,” Shores said. “He is also a really good critical thinker. He can take an idea and think about how it relates to concepts. He takes thinking to the next level.” Having already passed five AP exams, including two on the same day, Shin is able

to provide tips for conquering the AP exam. “It depends on the person,” Shin said. “I believe in last-minute cramming. It actually does help.” He did not forget to add the advantage of eating a breakfast on testing dates. “I actually try to eat breakfast,” Shin said. “I try to be really laid back (going into the exams). Don’t go in thinking about being nervous, or you will be nervous.” Although Shin does want the credits provided for college by the AP exams, he said there is another purpose for taking AP classes. “It’s about learning, learning about the world,” Shin said. “I don’t want to grow up not knowing about anything. I want to know how things work.”

Collage photos used with permission from Photo of John Trumbell (1756-1843) painting of Alexander Hamilton/Detroit Publishing Co./Library of Congress/MCT, Darrell Wong/Fresno Bee/MCT, Michael Perez/MCT, Christopher Reynolds/Los Angeles Times/MCT, National Archives/ MCT, Scosche/MCT, NASA/MCT and Olivier Douliery/Abaca Press/MCT. Photo by Trevor Zalkind

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REVOKED LICENSES EFFECTS THOUSANDS Joanie | Lyons

1,400 teen drivers without licenses

“When I received the letter in the mail, I was livid,” said Shivani Jhaveri, senior when she learned her license was revoked by the State of Colorado. More than 1,400 teen drivers in Colorado like Jhaveri must go back to the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) by May 1 to renew a license issued by a driving instructor for American Driving Academy. Dennis Sieving was an instructor at the school where teens take classes before getting their permits and licenses. Sieving left American Driving Academy two months ago citing health reasons. The letter Jhaveri received told primarily teen drivers across the state to stop driving immediately and give their licenses to the DMV. These letters started to come in the mail April 21 to those who took their drivers test with Sieving “ At first, I didn’t understand why this was happening to me and why I had to go through all of this when it wasn’t even my fault,” said Jhaveri. “I felt like it was only happening to me and no one else.” Sieving said in an interview with 9News over the phone that Burmese students came to him for driving tests and he has been accused of

In the state of Colorado

+

55 DMV’s that can renew licenses in Colorado

Photo illustration and graphic by Trevor Zalkind

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falsifying their paperwork. Sieving said he denies the accusations against him and he also plans to hire an attorney. Jhaveri later learned that many of her friends also received letters in the mail saying their licenses were revoked. “Some of my friends had their licenses revoked too,” she said. “It wasn’t just one person at our school that was being affected by this.” Later, the affected drivers learned their fees for the written and driving tests would be waived and they would also have a grace period to get all test scheduled and taken by May 1 before their licenses would be officially revoked. “I think that it was nice that at least I would have some time to schedule my test, but it’s still kind of a hassle for me to go out of my way to the DMV,” Jhaveri said. The Eagle Eye tried to contact Sieving over the phone April 25 but his line has been disconnected. Mark Couch, spokesman for the Colorado Dept. of Revenue, which also includes the subdivision of the DMV, said he can not comment on any investigations. For more updates on this story, visit vistanow.org

1,400 teen drivers that had to get licenses renewed by May 1 otherwise they’re


The dangers, the misconceptions Caleb | Williams “Everyone who doesn’t go just assumes (raves are) some big drugfest,” says Nick, a junior, who asked his real name not be used to avoid possible punishment. Nick is a frequent attendee of raves, a type of techno-music concert. And while on the surface, raves seem to be nothing more than a musically-oriented laser light show, there is a dark side of illegal drug use common at such events. According to Nick and other frequent ravers, substances used at raves can range anywhere from marijuana to ecstasy, cocaine and Lysergic Acid Diethylamide (LSD). Most raves are actually music festivals that last for many hours at a time, typically running from early one evening to midmorning the next day. Officer Rick Kiesow of the Douglas County Sheriff Department said police do not know much about the nature of raves because ravers keep a very low profile and the whole raver community is a very secretive group. Kiesow added the Douglas County Police have only encountered a few kids reeling from the effects of drug use at raves. “The ravers are a community within themselves,” he said. “They tend to stick to each other and not reveal much, if anything, about what goes on at these parties, which is why we don’t know much,” he

said. Nick, on the other hand, claims that drug use at raves is not nearly as prevalent as others make it out to be. “In reality, it’s a lot more like a school dance,” Nick said, “just the music is a lot louder and everyone is very friendly.” Nick added many people attend raves fully sober, and not everyone is under the influence of illicit substances. “They actually have security at the front to make sure you don’t have any drugs on you,” he said, “but just like any other concert, people know how to get stuff in or they’ll just take it beforehand.” Unfortunately, despite what any attendee of raves says, the threat of drug danger is very real. In November of 2008, an 18-year-old from Aurora died of an ecstasy overdose during a rave. Dustin Yslas was taken from a rave, known as “Changing The Rules,” to a nearby hospital after an alleged overdose of ecstasy pills, which was later determined the cause of death. The promoter of the rave, Harlock’s Elite, refused comment and took down its website after the incident. More recently, a 15-year-old female died of a similar cause at a rave in Los Angeles in June of 2010. The two-day event was known as the “Electric Daisy Carnival” and was one of the largest music

festivals in the history of North America. Sasha Rodriguez was taken to a nearby hospital along with 114 other attendees, mostly for drug overdoses. Rodriguez had drank from a friend’s water bottle laced with ecstasy and died of brain damage after two days on lifesupport. “It is possible that this is linked to the popularity of raves, but we (Douglas County Sheriff ’s Department) have been coming across much more frequent incidents involving ecstasy use in teens,” said Kiesow. “Drug use (at raves) is not really as bad as people make it out to be,” Nick said. “It’s really not much worse than you’ll see at house parties or even school dances. “The problem is that people can’t tell when they’ve had too much and they’re just not responsible with it. This is when they wind up (overdosing) and getting ravers a really bad rep. “You can’t jump to conclusions about these dangers if you haven’t seen them for yourself. It’s not just a big drug party. “It’s like being in a room filled with nothing but friends,” Nick said. Despite their differing opinions, both Nick and Officer Kiesow agree that anyone attending rave events, or those like it, just need to acknowledge the risks, understand what they can and can’t handle and be smart and be safe.

“Raves are ridiculous, all they’re doing is flipping glowsticks, and listening to the worst music ever.” Caleb | Smith, 12 “I could see how raves could be a fun event for those who attend, but that doesn’t change that a lot of the stuff going on there can be really sketch.” Alyssa | Xedus, 11

The Ravers keep things very hushhush, which is why we know little about what goes on at these parties.”

Officer Rick Kiesow

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Soul

N ational Sociedad H onoraria H ispánica

A

Club Founders:

Illustrations by Caitlin Young

| Katie Koch

| Kendall Turner

Two students begin a new chapter at the close of their senior year

Caitlin | Young

A last minute idea grew into a full-fledged and groundbreaking, nationally recognized language club this spring. Seniors Katie Koch and Kendall Turner have provided the main force behind the official formation of a Spanish National Honor Society (SNHS) or, in Spanish, the National Sociedad Honoraria Hispanica (NSHH). In the founders’ own words, the club is primarily a service organization. “The aim is to spread awareness of and increase aid to Spanish-speaking communities both close to home and around the world,” Koch said. Despite the limited time allotted, the students accomplished their goal of getting the club up and running in the few months left of their senior year. “We knew we wanted the club to be officially formed before the end of the year,” Koch said. “But, as we are so close to the end

“I want to make sure the foundation for the club is set and that the club will continue to grow and develop in the coming years,” she said. As a proctor, Spanish teacher Linda Hammerton-Morris has supported Turner and Koch’s autonomy to move forward and make independent decisions. Hammerton-Morris mainly serves as a link between the administration and the national honor society. An important factor to many seniors was the possibility of cords at graduation. The two leaders of the club worked with administration to of the school year, it has been difficult to fit in guarantee SNHS cords for all seniors that applied everything we wanted to do.” on time and paid their dues. The Induction ceremony is planned for Overall, Koch and Turner said they are exearly May along with a meeting for the juniors cited to leave one more impression on Mountain in order for new leaders to step forward for the Vista before graduation. continuance of the club into the next year. “We hope our efforts will encourage students In response to what role she must now play in the other languages to spearhead creation of as team leader, Turner said that her main a National Honor Society for those languages,” concern was the advancement of the club. Turner said.

I want to make

sure the foundation for the club is set. | Katie Koch

members of strong student Hitting Up the Clubs: Successful organizations share their accomplishments Speech and Debate’s

Chayenne Theberge, 10 Chayenne Theberge, sophomore member of Speech and Debate has won first place in one tournament, second in two other tournaments and gone to State in the poetry department. She plans on continuing her career in Speech and Debate the rest of high school.“Being able to speak in front of people publicly is a great skill,” she said. “It’s kinda hard to do at first, cause you’re nervous but everyone gets nervous at first.”

Theland | Thomas

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DECA’s

FCCLA’s

Rachel Zalkind, 11

Shelby DeRidder, 11

Mountain Vista’s Distributive Education Club of America (DECA) educates students with vital business and marketing skills that they will use later in life. Junior Rachel Zalkind, a member of the club, will be competing in the DECA nationals this year. “It’s really exciting,” said Zalkind. “It’s my biggest accomplishment, it was my inspiration. Even with the pressure associated with nationals, Zalkind said that she is looking forward to the competition— even describing herself as a “dangerous DECA diva.”

The FCCLA has been a staple organization in the Mountain Vista community for seven years; yet, many students have no clue what the acronym stands for—let alone what the club does. “It stands for Family Career Community Leaders of America,” junior Shelby DeRidder, a club leader, said. “We do service projects in the school and community.” So far this year, the FCCLA has participated in many community service projects, such as putting together care packages for troops and making Valentine’s for Littleton Hospital residents.

Pamela | Shapiro

Brad | Richardson


Word

Ca$h for College

High price of college raises concerns as soon-to-be graduates face increased costs Jack | Reeves and Zack | Smith

THE DEBT OF A STUDENT LOAN

Brian Clark | “Money is always a concern when paying for college.”

Greg Chase | Nevin Muckom | “The cost of was “I’m starting to a major decision think loans are a in choosing a part of life for a school.” lot of people.” Photos by Kyle Waters

Sources to Finance Education Major source

By the Number$ $16,140 | Average Total Charge for

Minor source

In-State Universities

Not a source

$7,605 | Average Cost of In-State

Part-time or full-time job 31% 32% 37% Money from parents 38% 22% 40% Scholarships 35% 25% 40% Student loans 35% 22% 42% Personal savings 49% 21% 31%

Tuition $36,993 | Average Total Charge for Private Colleges $27,293 | Average Cost of Private College Tuition $24,000 | Average Undergraduate Student Debt

Source: Associated Press

Source: College Board

Columbus Ledger-Enquirer/MCT

Students loans are a common form of monetary aid for students that are attending college. In fact, six in ten students report in relying on some form of students loans, with nearly half of them feeling uncomfortable with the debt, finding it difficult to pay off (study by Stanford University). “It becomes more of a concern to preserve my education,” says Mountain Vista senior Greg Chase. Brian Clark, another soon-to-be graduate, is concerned about the cost of college, but plans on becoming an engineer to help pay off any debt that he may have. “Hopefully I won’t have that much debt,” says Clark. Parents that have been affected by the recession have less money to pay for their kids’ tuition. Six out of every ten students rely on their parents for financial assistance. Tough times in the world may mean an even tougher time on campus. Jobs that used to be there upon graduation aren’t there anymore — consumed by the nation’s 8.8 percent unemployment rate. The debt of loans is frightening to students, for good reason. Money problems, not bad grades, are the reasons students considering dropping out of college, according to a survey by the Associated Press-Viacom. “I am starting to think that loans are a part of life for a lot of people,” said Muckom. “It’s just a common struggle.” The U.S. Education Department says 7 percent of borrowers default within two years of repayment on loans. These debts can stretch out for a decade or more. The average student loan debt tops $23,000. Bob Goldman, a financial planner based in Sausalito, Calif., warns that, “when the time comes, parents may not be able to pay it (college tuition).” Being realistic, he says, will help the student make better-informed decisions. Goldman recommends having an honest talk with the child about the financial realities of the situation. Also agreeing with this theory is John Gugle, a certified financial planner based in Charlotte, N.C. He said students are more likely to value their education if they are responsible for some of the cost. He says parents should pay all four years if they attend the in-state public university, but if the student plans on attending a private or out-of-state university, then the parents will pay for three years, and the student will be responsible for the other year. Also, according to Gugle, if the child goes beyond four years, the student should have to fund that additional cost.

TERMS TO KNOW | Loan: The temporary possesion of money which must be paid back over time | Grant: Any monetary aid Scholarship: Financial aid provided to the student based on academic or athletic performance

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deci

THE

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cision

Vista

MVHSEagleEye

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Vista

Eagle Eye staff

Editorial

the end

The Mountain Vista Class of 2011 has finally reached the end of the road. Before thinking about the future, let’s remember one last time the last four years of our lives.

CO-EDITORS-IN-CHIEF Kyle Tosch Ryan Winter EDITORS Val Buccio Joanie Lyons Macy Morgan Erica Rasquinha Zack Smith Caleb Williams Caitlin Young PHOTO EDITOR Amy Markowski ADVERTISING Jordan Laeyendecker

REPORTERS Taylor Blatchford Riley McCloskey Megan Oberg Jack Reeves Brad Richardson Pamela Shapiro Jake Smith Theland Thomas Maggie Williams PHOTOJOURNALISTS Alex Hill Sierra Thornley Jordan VanNote Kyle Waters Trevor Zalkind

ADVISER | Mark Newton, MJE POLICY

Well, seniors, we made it. After four years of high school academia, graduation has finally arrived, but before we make it official May 19 let us take the time now to reflect on our stay at Mountain Vista. Back in the spring of 2007, while sitting in “language arts” and/or “social studies” class at Mountain Ridge, the counselors of Vista made the trip across the parking lot to register us for the first of the next four years of our lives. When we chose our classes for our freshman year, we really determined the academic path we would follow through four years. Four years ago who would have thought our valedictorian, Brian Shin, would end with a 4.35 GPA and be the first Golden Eagle to get accepted to Harvard and win a Boettcher Scholarship? In ninth grade, the high school actually did seem big, and the seniors cocky giants. Remember our first day of school, when we first met the kids in our CONNECT classes? We met new people, and made lasting friendships. Some teachers we loved, some left us feeling irritable and annoyed. We lived through our first two years, when leaving campus was not an option until the final bell rung, zero-period did not exist and George W. Bush was still president. Over the course of four years, we explored our passions, ranging from theater to community service

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to football. We waited our turns to be the editor of the yearbook or the captain of the baseball team. We traded uniforms until that varsity jersey was finally in our hands. Athletically, our class has excelled. Katie Koch was named the AllColorado Player of the Year in field hockey. In soccer, Tidiane “T” Dia was an All-American and named Gatorade Player of the Year in Colorado. Numerous students have signed to play in college, including swimmers Ian Woon (Dartmouth College) and Kevin Stoddard (Navy) as well as soccer players Jenna Owens (Georgia), Bri Pugh (Oregon) and Ashton Hall (Utah), Many of us will attend college in Colorado next year. Several students were accepted into Ivy League universities, including Bryan Smith and Nicole Lewis. Others will take a different route: a year off, full-time work or a chance to study abroad. Of course, there were some rocky patches along the way: fights in the hallways, a failing grade in English, an accident outside the student parking lot. But here we are now, and none of that really seems important anymore. Yes, we are done. We will all go off our separate ways now, whether that be college, work or something completely new. This is an ode to the Class of 2011. Enjoy the last weeks of Mountain Vista and good luck in the future!

eagle.eye may.02.2011 www.vistanow.org

Eagle Eye, a legally recognized public forum for student expression, is published six to nine times a year by the Newspaper class for students of Mountain Vista High School. Expression made by students in the exercise of freedom of speech or freedom of press is not an expression of Douglas County school board policy. The views expressed in Eagle Eye do not necessarily represent the views of the entire staff, adviser, MVHS administration or the Douglas County School District administration. Board policy regarding student publications (JICEA and JI/JIA) is available in the journalism/ publications room (Room U328) or in the principal’s office.

LETTERS TO THE EDITORS Eagle Eye welcomes and encourages letters to the editors. This is a chance to express your viewpoint on important issues. Letters should be limited to 250 words. Letters will be edited for space and legal considerations, but not for inaccuracies, grammar or spelling. Letters must contain information pertinent to the students of MVHS. The staff retains the right to not publish any letter not meeting these requirements. Unsigned letters will not be published. Please submit typed letters in person to Room U328 or via mail or e-mail.

CONTACT Eagle Eye, Mountain Vista High School, 10585 Mountain Vista Ridge, Highlands Ranch, CO 80126. Phone: 303- 387-1500. FAX: 303-387-1501. Adviser e-mail: mark.newton@dcsdk12.org. Publication e-mail: EagleEyeNews@dcsdk.12org

COST Single copies are free. Where available, additional copies of this paper are available for purchase for 50 cents each. Contact Eagle Eye for more information. Taking more than one copy of this paper with the intent to prevent other individuals from reading this edition of the paper is prohibited (C.R.S. 18-4-419). Violators, subject to prosecution and penalty under C.R.S. 1321-123, will be prosecuted.

OPEN FORUM CONTENT Some material courtesy of American Society of Newspaper Editors/MCT Campus High School Newspaper Service and Creative Commons licensing. ©2011 Eagle Eye/Mountain Vista High School. All rights reserved.

THE FIRST AMENDMENT Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the government for a redress of grievances.


Exploring the mind Eagle Eye photographer, Kyle Waters, freshman,

takes a photograph of his head while waiting to take “EPIC photos” of students in the adventure class with Tim Taylor. “Stopping motion in a split second is interesting to me,” said Waters.

Photo by Jordan VanNote

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Looking to the future lPhoto by Kyle Waters


Germany

Colorado

It’s time to take off Photo used under Creative Commons licensing/Courtesy of kcp4911 and newsbie pix

Senior Kelsey Johnson decides to go to a bible school in Germany

I

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with other people. While Johnson has already made up her mind about whether to go to college or not, the decision is not nearly as easy for many students, counselor Aaron Ragon said. “I think that a number of people can learn in different environments, not just college,” Ragon said. “The worst thing that you can do is to do something that you’re not prepared for or do not want to do.” Johnson said this year will give her time to reflect on life and “live a life full of loving others, exploring the world and loving God.” However, Ragon also said for most students, college is the best option. “I would say that college is not the only way to ensure success, but for most people who operate

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in a conventional manner, I think it’s the best option,” Ragon said. Johnson said she would not recommend everybody take a year off because it is not for everyone, but it is a good idea for people who want to reach out and do something different. “I think taking a year off is a great way to step back and examine what you really want out of life,” Johnson said. “It is a good time to experience a change in pace.” Johnson falls under the “unconventional” category, as she is prepared to forgo college and begin a new chapter of her life in Germany. “It’s a life choice,” Johnson said. “We all have to choose different paths and do different things.”

Photo by Alex Hill

Brad | Richardson and Valerie | Buccio Instead of going to a typical college or university, senior Kelsey Johnson is going to Bodenseehof Bible School in Germany. It is a school through Torchbearers International and is in Southern Germany, right on the border of Switzerland and Austria. “I didn’t really want to do the four-year university, party-it-up-for-$20,000-ayear-type thing,” Johnson said, “and to go to another country is an awesome opportunity.” Johnson said she has never been to Germany, but she is really excited for the new opportunity. She said she is most looking forward to traveling and living abroad. She also said she is excited for the community that comes along with living


Q&A

EAGLE EYE: Do you know what you want to be when you are older? KELSEY JOHNSON“I just know I want to explore the world, be a pioneer, have an adventure and break out of the standard ‘college, job, family’ business and live life.”

Scope

with senior Kelsey Johnson about taking a year off of college

EE: Have you been to Germany before? KJ: “No, I have never been to Germany, but that just makes me that much more excited for this new opportunity.”

EE: How do your parents feel about you going to Germany for a year? KJ: “My parents are down, they know it will be a good opportunity and they know it is the only thing I really want to be doing right now.”

EE: Would you recommend students to take a year off of college? KJ: “It is not for everyone, but it is a great way to examine what you really want out of life.”

to a new

opportunity G A P Y E A R

Does taking a year off of college save more money? The gap year is now a potential money-saving oasis as students fine-tune their interests, put away cash and gain the maturity to make the most out of college. Denver Post, “Fulfilling the gap”

by Kevin Simpson

ents take a year off? ud st s on as re o tw p s,” are What are the to out more about themselve h school and a desire to find son, coitive pressure of hig by Karl Haigler and Rae Nel “Burnout from the compet years, according to a survey gap e tak ts den stu s son ” by Sue Shellenbarger the top two rea The Wall Street Jour nal, “Gap Kids k on the topic. boo de gui g min hco fort a authors of

How many students defer their admission? Of about 21,000 freshman applicants, the University of Colorado gets up to 400 requests for deferred admission which is a ratio that has remained fairly stable over the last few years. Denver Post, “Fulfilling the gap” by Kevin Simpson

How many consider a gapyear?

Mark Montgomery, who runs an educational consulting firm in Den ver, figures at least 25 percent of his counseling clients conside r a gap year, and about 10 to 15 percent follow through. Denver Post

The Wall Street Journal, “Gap Kids” by

Sue Shellenbarger

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Hunting in Hig h la n ds R a n c h

As summer approaches, the job searching begins Macy | Morgan With summer less about a month away, many high school students at Mountain Vista are gearing up for a summer of work — or trying to. Because of the recent recession, many teenagers, like juniors Savannah Johnson and Joy Benavides, agree that finding a job may have become more difficult. With many students now driving and developing their social lives, finding a job is almost crucial to pay for increasing gas prices, off-campus lunch, fashion trends and other social activities. Benavides, who already has a job at Windcrest, a retirement living community in Highlands Ranch, said she had it easy. “I didn’t have to look very hard but others have to apply everywhere.” Benavides said she had not applied for any other job before Windcrest. Sophomore Kelly Strife said she has been looking for a job for several months, but despite having applied to more than five places, she has not yet secured a job. “I’ve applied to all the places that I think I would enjoy working (at), but I’m probably going to have to expand to other places so I could earn some money,” she said. “I would say I like (my job),” Benavides said. “The people that I work with are

the greatest people ever.” Johnson also said she enjoys her job at Peachwave, where she recently began working. “I love it,” she said. Strife said she worries that there are a lot of teenagers in Highlands Ranch, and many may be considered more qualified for a job due to previous experience, grades and volunteer history. “Some of them may just be better fits for the job,” she said. “It’s a difficult time for anyone to find work these days, and I’m sure teenagers are feeling this as well,” Meredith DouglasMoore,store manager of Yogurtland in Cherrywood Square, said. However, Benavides said Windcrest was the only place to which she has applied. “I filled out a resume and had an interview. It was pretty easy to get.” With summer approaching quickly, Strife, among other students, continues to persist and apply to various places around Highlands Ranch. “I am getting to the age where I can’t depend on my parents anymore,” Strife said. “I need to find a way to get that source of income, so I can use my own money. All my friends have jobs, so I think it might be time for me to get one, too.”

As for the applying process, Douglas-Moore suggests dropping off applications in the spring when applying for a job for the summer. “I would recommend asking to talk to the manager on duty when you drop off an application,” said Douglas-Moore. She also suggested calling once in a while if there have not been any updates, but to avoid “bombarding” the store with weekly calls. “Be prepared to work weekends and nights, and have a flexible schedule.” Strife said she only called a few of the places she applied to after turning in the application, and perhaps that is why she has not had an interview. She said she will try to be more persistent and call back after turning in the application. As for the interview process, Douglas-Moore said she looks for “someone who is a people-person, likes to keep busy and (is) easy to get along with.” “Never ever have your mom call in to check up on an application!” she said. Only four weeks remain until school is over and the long days of summer begin. “Apply wherever you see ‘Now Hiring’ signs, dress nice for your interview, be polite and smile!” advised Benavides. “Keep looking and don’t give up!”

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W Highlands Ranch from the top of High Point Photo by Trevor Zalkind

A ls o Che c k Ou t. . . Recreation

| The Ridge at Castle Pines North in Castle Pines, CO www.theridgecpn.com

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Scope

how to

Ap ply

Savannah Johnson, 11 | Be honest | Explain your availability in detail

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| Be respectful | Mention extra-curricular activities | Say thank you at the end, and call back or leave a card

Photos by Jordan VanNote

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| Pac Sun Park Meadows/Aspen Grove

Authority in Castle Rock, CO www.dcwater.org

| Aeropostale Park Meadows/Aspen Grove | American Eagle Park Meadows/Aspen Grove MVHSEagleEye

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Turkey and Greece Trip Itinerary-

Turkey overnight to Day 1 - Fly ul ive in Istanb Day 2 - Arr of Istanbul a guided tour Day 3 - Take of Troy t the ruins Day 4 - Visi of Pergamon t the ruins Day 5 - Visi at Ephesus t the ruins Day 6 - Visi visit se ship and ard the crui Day 7 - Bo Patmos Santorini t Crete and Day 8 - Visi ens and visit mbark at Ath Day 9 - Dise opolis the Acr Denver! urn home to Day 10 - Ret

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Photos by Riley McCloskey Graphic used with permission from EF Educational Tours


Soul

A spring review of what is new. tumblr.com

A+

A Hop

When I found the existence of tumblr I learned what blogging could really look like. I have found tumblr utterly addicting and my new favorite form of social media. Similar to twitter in its list format, tumblr allows users to post a variety of media to their profile. Whether you want to share photos, music, text, quotes, conversations or video entries, all can be contributed to a customized page with your own personalized URL address. The blogs range from National Geographic pages to inspirational thoughts shared with followers. Starting up is easy—just go to tumblr.com, enter an email, a password and the URL you would like to use. Then you can get going with your own personal stream of consciousness.

| Administration, teachers and staff who are leaving including Shirl Chumley and Mark Wurst. We’ll miss you! | Vista soccer: The boys finished second in the state (No. 27 in the nation), and the girls are undefeated so far. | Math teacher Brian Wood for writing a book, Dream World. Everyone go buy it! | The seniors for pulling off a clever senior prank.

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Flops

| ACT scheduling. Just give us the day off. | After-Prom because no one went. | CU Boulder for discontinuing its journalism program. | Students being rude in the hallways. | The State of Colorado for revoking 1,400 licenses issued through American Driving Academy. | Vending machines turned off during lunch.

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Evening with the Arts

All together, the movie was mediocre and would satisfy children much more than any high school audience. Despite James Marsden starring in his second role voice-over role, “Enchanted” remains high above “Hop’s” ratings. Unfortunately, the movie is another “Fool’s Gold” in its forgettable nature and how the previews said it all. The bunny pooping jelly beans will forever be the signature of the movie, but that is about all the movie has to offer. From the producers of “Despicable Me”, I was expecting more than Alvin and the Chipmunks quality. But if you are advising a youngun’, feel free to recommend this age-appropriate film.

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Two causes, one show. The successful night was gracefully organized by senior Curtis Pavey, who also performed on the piano as one of the acts. I found the night to be very classy and well-done. DECA and NHS came together in order to support both Roses of Charity and DECA’s nationally qualifying students’ travel. It was nice how everyone performing dressed up, and the bake sale was great too! I preferred the experience overall more than typical performances taking place in the auditorium. My favorite acts were the harp and cello, however, every piece was pleasant to listen to. Thanks to the students who volunteered their talents to two great causes! Illustrations by Caitlin Young

hallway talk

| There is this stupid old lady...yeah she dies. | Just season the crap out of them. | That’s why you don’t bring demon statues into your house. | She’s legitimately pregnant. | He is the best Mormon ever. He converted me without a bike. | Today is Inappropriate Touch Tuesday.


Men’s A Capella

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These choral singers take the creative route by arranging their own music for the upcoming Goldust Concert

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Taylor | Blatchford The little-known Men’s A Capella choir has decided to arrange its own music for the upcoming Goldust performances May 5-7. They are writing a mash-up of “I’m Yours,” “Hey Soul Sister,” and “Somewhere Over the Rainbow.” Forrest Hersom, senior, is in Men’s A Capella, Goldtones and Men’s Choir. He is working on writing the notes and music for the song, along with junior Jordan Barnes and senior Josh Barnes. “We thought it would be cool to combine the three (songs),” said Hersom. “It would be more original and give more variety.” Hersom said his favorite part of being in the group is the originality in coming up with its

own music arrangements. “It’s a cool opportunity to sing different types of music and solos. It also goes away from more classical choir music into more of the pop type of music,” Hersom said. Senior Derek Driggs, who is also a member of Men’s A Capella, Goldtones and Men’s Choir, is a part of a group of male students who originally decided to form the group. He said some guys thought it was unfair that there was jazz choir for girls but not a similar alternative for boys. “It gives us an opportunity to explore higher level and more ‘fun’ music,” Driggs said about singing a capella, or without musical accompaniment. “The music has more musicality and

requires more musical ability.” Driggs said the people in the group are his favorite part of Men’s A Capella. “Everyone is fun and talented. We are able to share our interests and talents,” Driggs said. “It also creates long-lasting friendships.” Driggs said Men’s A Capella is really excited about Goldust. “I think all the choirs are excited, because Goldust is awesome,” Driggs said. Hersom also said there is a lot of adrenaline and excitement while performing a capella. “If everyone learns their part, we can pull it off (and) it will be so much fun,” Hersom said. “I think it will be the best a capella performance we’ve done this year.” Photos courtesy of MVHS Music Department, Leah Mayer, Chelsea McGuire, Chelsea Riches, Caren Monsees and Jenn Kline

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years of Goldust

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| Josh Barnes, Caleb Smith, Jordan Barnes, Kreg Flowers, Taylor Flowers, Jonathan Durbin

| Forrest Hersom,Josh Barnes, Jordan Barnes

| Forrest Hersom

Men’s A Capella is the newest MVHS choir. While getting ready for the other choral songs, they are also arranging their own piece.

Photo by Alex Hill

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The you don’t want to see

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New perspective after pregnancy scare

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EDITOR’S | NOTE

This student wants to remain anonymous due to the situation. I am a normal girl who did a normal thing, but could have been in a serious situation. I had dated this boy from another school twice in my two years of being in high school. Last year during the summer we were considering getting back together. The day that I was leaving for Michigan, we were just talking and listening to music on my bed. Holding hands became kissing, and from there it went to clothes coming off. It was not that I was scared, and everything on the surface felt fine. He did not pressure me, and was as much of a gentleman that any excited teenage boy could have been in that moment. Since we were both about to lose our virginities unexpectedly, he did not have a condom with him. Now, I have paid attention during “sex-ed” classes and I know the risks of having unprotected sex. At the time I was also on a birth control pill, but I was not exactly sure if it would work. My pills had been tampered with in the weeks before because my dog got to them and chewed out random pills. After everything was finished nothing went in the normal direction that it should have. He had to leave back to work, and I had to finish packing. After I was back in my room alone, I just sat on the floor and thought about

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everything that had just happened. The fact that I just had sex was a shock to me and I felt that the act was appropriate but my body was in a lot of pain. The consequences of what could have happened did not hit me until I was on my flight and with a young dad and his son sitting next to me. He and I were both worried, but we had no regrets about what happened and were happy that we were each others’ firsts. In Michigan, I managed to secretly explain the situation to my cousin while sitting in her bedroom. She immediately called a friend who was of legal age to get me the Plan B pill. I do believe that life begins at conception, but I knew I was not ready to be a mother at 16-yearsold. I stressed about it for a couple more days, and finally when her friend was going to get the pill, I hesitated and told them that I could not do this. I felt too guilty, and in my heart I knew it was wrong. I told the guy I had sex with about my decisions and he said he understood, and that we would just hope for the best. Within the next month, I was barely sleeping and constantly thinking. I thought about what my family would say, what I would do about school, how adoption works and just the overall effect that this could have had on my life. When the time came for the test to give an accurate

reading, I did not even have the courage to take the test at home. I had a choir concert at the Universtity of Denver and in that bathroom, that is where I took the test and had a friend wait in the stall with me. Thankfully, the test showed a negative. I wrapped it in as much toilet paper as possible and ripped the box to shreds. I rejoiced with the few people who knew about my situation, and tried to call my “boyfriend.” After a couple days I took a second test, and got the final negative. I got a text message from the guy that read, “So is our situation anything like ‘Juno.’” After cussing a little bit and questioning what possessed him to phrase such an important question in such an unimportant way, I finally confirmed that I was not pregnant. I also added that we should probably take a break away from each other because of the dramatics of the whole situation. Throughout the year, we basically fought, flirted, questioned each others’ intentions on that afternoon and tried to move on from the past. Right now, we do not speak or see each other, and I am alright with that. I do not regret having sex, or having sex with him because I know that at one point or another in our complicated lives I did care for him. I am proud of myself for putting my life into God’s hands and not taking the Plan B pill, but I definitely think that last summer was the wrong time to lose my virginity.

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Photo by Alex Hill

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Soul

Missunderstood: “Confidence is contagious”

Sophomore Gabbi Capocelli reaches out to her female peers with a campaign to raise confidence

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Maggie | Williams “In high school, people are judges” Capocelli said. Sophomore Gabbi Capocelli stands in front of her peers, without any makeup on, and makes a bold statement not many would be ready to admit. “Girls wear a lot of makeup,” she said, and the girls in her audience turn their heads and look at one another. “I feel more confident in myself and would like to pass this on to other people.” Because she had been thinking about how much makeup girls wear, when she saw a movement in Texas that promoted girl’s confidence by not wearing makeup, she wanted to create a similar movement at Mountain Vista. “I emailed the people in Texas to see if I could start the cause here and they said it was fine,” she said. She also said she wants to expand her cause across the world by donating money to Girl Up, a foun

Photo by Alex Hill Sophomore Gabbi Capocelli hands out one of her campaign shirts to sophomore Lindsey Smith. “I feel more confident in myself (without makeup) and would like to pass this on to other people,” Capocelli said.

dation started by the United Nations which addresses the needs of adolescent girls in hard-to-reach countries. According to the foundation’s website, www. girlup.org, it addresses these needs by channeling the energy and compassion of American girls as a powerful force for change. The

volunteers of the foundation work to give girls the opportunity to be educated, healthy, safe and set them up to be the leaders of the future. “In Africa and Asia, many girls will get pregnant by the time they are 14,” said Capocelli. “If we can educate them and give

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eagle.eye may.02.2011 www.vistanow.org

Arvada, CO (303)548-6135

them confidence, then they can better contribute to the world.” Capocelli is starting her cause in the Choir department and taking orders for T-shirts that raise awareness for the cause and money for Girl Up. “I’d like to start doing one day a week where we wear the T-shirts and don’t wear makeup,” she said. “One day a week is not too much to ask.” Capocelli believes that just going a day without makeup at school will increase high school girls’ confidence. “It will also make girls more confident around boys, especially if boys became more accepting of it,” she said. Already, many girls have signed up in the choir room, U733, to order a T-shirt. Shirts cost $11 for a youth size, $13 for adult sizes small through extra large; and $15 for an extra extra large. If you would like to order a t-shirt, talk to Gabbi or email her at gabigoo54@gmail.com. “I’d like to keep it going, and hopefully people will see the choir girls wearing the shirts and it will spread across the school,” she said. “I made a facebook group, so that’s in the works right now.” Although it may seem difficult to stand out in the crowd of high school girls and not wear makeup, Capocelli said she feels more confident now than ever. “Don’t be afraid to make a statement even if everyone else isn’t doing it,” she said. “Confidence is contagious; be the change.”

| Girl Up is a United Nations foundation. | The cause encourages young girls to channel their energy into helping girls in developing countries. | Supporters are encouraged to give a “high five” by donating $5 or more. | Funds provide girls with basic needs like clean water, school supplies and safety from violence. | Funds specifcally go to Ethiopia, Guatemala, Liberia and Malawi. Source: www.girlup.org/


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electric reviews

Soul

Photo by Sierra Thornley

Blogger

interested in film­, so I decided I would start my own blog and post my own reviews.

| Alex Damle

Student blogs provide creative outlet Theland | Thomas

Almost every student attending Mountain Vista High School, and even more students around the country, has an account for social networking on sites such as Facebook, Twitter and YouTube.; however, a few students, such as sophomore Alex Damle, also have their own blogs. Damle writes a film blog at the website www.howtobeafilmsnob.blogspot.com. On the blog, he writes reviews on highly rated modern and classic movies. “I only watch things that are well reviewed or have good Internet Movie Database (IMDb) scores because there’s so much out there that I don’t really have time for bad movies,” Damle said. Damle began writing his blog because of his love for film as both a director and critic. “I’m a student director, but I love watching films, possibly more than making them, and I figured there was a good way to express that.” Damle reviews his films by looking at the key elements of storyline, script, direction, editing, acting, cinematography and various other aspects important to the film. Reviews are organized by a brief plot introduction, followed by a critique of the elements listed above and finally a recommendation to similar films. Recommendations “all depend on whether you like really intellectual films. I would recommend that everyone see ‘Pulp Fiction’, ‘The Godfather’ and ‘Dr. Strangelove’, although ‘Pulp Fiction’ and ‘The Godfather’ are pretty violent. Pretty much everyone will find something to like.”

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may.02.2011

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Films

Alex Damle: bonafide blogger

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Illustration by Brad Richardson

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I’ve always been

| Dr. Strangelove or: How I Learned to Stop Worrying and Love the Bomb (1964) | The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly (1966) | The Godfather (1972) | Pulp Fiction (1990) | Léon: the Professional (1994) | The Thin Red Line (1998)

Agree? Disagree? Let Damle know on his blog! www.howtobeafilmsnob. blogspot.com


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Rocke Orthodondicts | 303-730-7002 | www.rockeortho.com eagle.eye may.02.2011 www.vistanow.org

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Mean, Green, Fighting Machine

Kyle Moorcones, freshman, sets up for

his shotput throw during a track and field meet against the ThunderRidge Grizzlies April 15. “Usually I will eat a couple of peanut butter and jelly (sandwiches) for the protein and I listen to rap,� Moorcones said about his preparation before a meet.

Photo by Amy Markowski

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Pulse

Lax Bros are in season Zamora embraces the bro life

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Erica | Rasquinha While senior Daniel Zamora plays his last season for the Vista lacrosse program, he says he enjoys playing the sport as well as maintaining a strong bond with his teammates. Zamora has been on the team all four years and played on the South Suburban team in middle school. “I chose lacrosse because I didn’t really enjoy baseball, because I had a really hard time paying attention during the games,” Zamora said. “Lacrosse just fit my ADD (Attention Deficit Disorder) better.” As for the concept of “bro life,” something Zamora simply defines as “just living easy,” he said he tries to enjoy every day with the people he loves. “Being a ‘bro’ is all about the relationships you have,” Zamora said. One concept that the “lax bros” work is “flow,” which is specifically long hair. There are also TopSider, a type of boatsman shoe and khaki shorts which show off their high

socks and shoes. Zamora said high socks are to prevent the lacrosse players from getting “C.A.S. (Chilly Ankle Syndrome).” Zamora said that because lacrosse is such a unique sport, it sort of became a culture within itself. “I guess people just wanted something new to do,” Zamora said. “I think that the stereotypes can be good for the sport, as they are light-hearted and part of the lax culture,” Coach Ben Brenneman said. Another term among these boys is “chill cellies” which is the post-goal celebration where two or more “bros” unite in the air. This can be done chest to chest, or chest to shoulder, with their arms spread most likely pointing at the nearest camera. Even though Zamora said he feels most of these concepts give lacrosse players a pretty stereotypical reputation, he confirmed they are true. “I try to do whatever I feel is right,” Zamora said. Brenneman also added that people should always keep in mind the physical

and mental demands of this sport. “Remember that these players are putting in a great deal of effort to be a part of a serious program, not simply having fun while looking good,” Brenneman said. As for the type of person he would like his teammates and peers to see him as, Zamora said, “ I hope they see me as a selfless person and athlete, with great hair.”

Flow | Long and flowing hair that can be accompanied by a “flow band.”

Lax Jersey | Wardrobe that shows team spirit on home game days.

Khaki Shorts | Shows off the high socks and shoes.

What are some of the stereotypes assumed of lacrosse players?

Mid Highs “Lax bros always have long hair, a ton of girls. They are pretty awesome.” Kooper | Kline, 9

“I think of mid-calve and gnarly long flow. I like them because I have a lot of friends who play lacrosse.” Mason | Simmons, 10

| Prevent these athletes from getting “C.A.S. (Chilly Ankle Syndrome).”

Photo by Kyle Waters

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Ahead of the rest Vista girls soccer eyes state championship

Senior Kelsey Branstetter (18) and junior Tailor Smith (9) defend the goal against Castle View attackers.

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Jake | Smith Mountain Vista’s girls soccer team continues to roll. After a terrific 2010 season that included a trip to the state semifinals where they were beaten by eventual state champion Fairview, the Golden Eagles’ girls soccer team does not plan to be knocked off this year. Danielle Cushing, the sophomore goalkeeper for the Golden Eagles, subscribes fully to this plan. “We hope to hold up the trophy (at the end of the year),” Cushing said. “We want to win state.”

>>

Photo by Kyle Waters

And their the number one record shows it. 5A soccer ranking The girls socin Colorado. cer team is off to “We are all a scalding start working toin-conference gether, and we this year. After enjoy each other’s tying two of their company,” Cushfirst three games ing said. “We’re against nonPhoto by Kyle Waters winning, which conference teams, Sophomore only helps the and winning the relationship.” Danielle Cushing other, the team has keeps loose during Cushing has won all eight inonly let up a team practice. conference games, three goals thus outscoring opponents far this season, none of 44-7. which have been allowed Overall, the girls soccer to Continental League team has a 11-0-2 record, teams. Contrast that with good enough to earn them 34 saves, and Cushing has

an extraordinary .919 save percentage. However, Cushing does not flaunt her talents, and puts the team in front of her personal accomplishments. When asked about any goals for the season, she first talked about the team goals, noting the team’s intention to win it all, above any other objectives. However, still higher than that, Cushing knows the team needs support for a state championship run. “Come to games,” Cushing said. “We need fans.”

Team Stats Class 5A 1 Ranking

10-0 Continental League Record

7

Goals Allowed

44

Goals Scored

Stats courtesy Denver Post Preps. All numbers and records current as of April 29.

What do you believe is the reason for the team’s success? Jenna Owens

Tailor Smith

“We have strong players, we work well together and we have team chemistry.”

“We have been playing as a team towards a common goal.”

“We work together as a unit, as one. We know how to work together.”

| Goals Scored: 12

| Goals Scored: 6

| Goals Scored: 4

| Assists: 7

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Bri Pugh

All photos by Kyle Waters | Assists: 4

eagle.eye may.02.2011 www.vistanow.org

| Assists: 1


Even with hurdles, Gary Klatt impacts the track team Taylor | Blatchford

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“Coaching has always been a love for me,” track and field coach Gary Klatt said. “It is really exciting when I see a kid reach their potential and do something they never thought they could do.” Klatt is 62 years old and has been coaching high school sports for 36 of those years. He currently volunteers at Mountain Vista to help coach track and field, as well as football in the fall. After being a Marine Corps officer in charge of 18 and 19 year olds from 19681972, he decided that he liked it so much he wanted to become a high school coach and teacher. He taught business,

American history, and physical education at Pomona High School for a total of 26 years. Klatt was also the assistant principal at Standley Lake High School for four years. Klatt was Pomona’s head football coach for 26 years, helping produce many all-state athletes and winning Pomona the 1988 state championship and 3 state runner-up titles in football. He also helped the football team win the Jefferson County League Championships 11 out of 12 years. Klatt was recognized as the Colorado High School Coach of the Year in 1998, as well as being inducted into the Jefferson County Sports Hall of Fame

in 2005. Head track distance and cross country coach and Mountain Ridge Middle School teacher Jonathan Dalby has coached with Klatt for four years. He said that his favorite part of coaching with Klatt is learning new things from him and getting advice. “(He has shown me) that building relationships with your athletes is far more important than winning,” Dalby said. “” Klatt decided to come coach at Mountain Vista because his son-in-law Jeff Hoefs teaches English and coaches football for the Golden Eagles. Four out of his six grandchildren also live

He has taught me a lot about how to turn a team of individuals into a family. You can really tell that there is a mutual respect between Coach Klatt and those he has worked with in the past.”

| Jonathan Dalby, track and field coach

in Colorado. Klatt said that his favorite part of coaching is watching kids improve from their freshman to senior year, and seeing them reach their full potential. Isaac Archuleta, senior, said he reached his full potential by senior year. Archuleta has been working with Coach Klatt since his freshman year in football and track, and he said Klatt has really helped him improve his running form. Archuleta said that from his sophomore to junior year, he went from 13 seconds to 11.3 seconds in the 100-meter dash. “He’s really motivational, and he makes you want to perform for him,” Archuleta said. “Just being around him, you feel like you’re significant. He’s an overall great guy, and like a grandfather.” Archuleta said that Coach Klatt makes him want to do his best and really perform in track and football. “When he’s around, you’re trying to perform for him, not just all for yourself,” Archuleta said. Junior Alyssa Andriese has worked with Klatt since her freshman year, and said he really motivates her and pushes her to do her best.

“Even when it’s super cold he’ll be out there cheering you on,” Andriese said. “You know he’ll always be there. He’s like a grandpa to the team.” Andriese said that her favorite part of working with Klatt is how friendly he is, and how he does things like coming to see her at practice and giving her a high five. “He gives you advice too,” Andriese said. “He will tell you things like ‘Don’t give up,’ and ‘Push yourself to the very end.’” “Coach Klatt is a wealth of knowledge and I am very fortunate to be able to coach with him everyday. He cares for others and is always willing to serve,” Dalby said. Klatt said he hopes to continue coaching as long as he is useful and healthy. He developed leukemia after being exposed to “agent orange,” a pesticide used in Vietnam during the time he was in the Marines. “I am doing fine and I feel as good as I ever have. I haven’t had any treatment for it yet,” Klatt said. Dalby said that Coach Klatt is the best coach in Colorado. “Our distance runners are very lucky to be working with him.”

Photos byTrevor Zalkind Senior track and field runner Mathew Leach talks to Klatt about the workout for the day.

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