R A I D I G E S T E R S Prepare for the Scare
OCTOBER 2011 VOLUME V ISSUE II
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RAIDERS DIGEST October 2011
RJ students deepen faith in Spain Keeping the Secret World Youth Day leaves mark on students
The importance of RJ retreats
Jessee Weed ‘13
Delaney Lanker ‘13
The streets of Madrid are crowded. Young people scream wildly. Shouts come from all directions and in all languages. Suddenly, everything becomes very quiet and very still. There is a strong presence in the crowd. You look to your right and see the infamous Popemobile, and there he is. The Pope, the holiest man on earth, is coming your way. He is so close you can almost touch him. World Youth Day is a Catholic event held every two to three years in a different part of the world. It is designed to allow Catholic youth, or youth of any religious affiliation, to deepen their faith and experience the Catholic faith in a Catholic setting. This year, the event took place in Madrid, Spain, from August 16 through 21. Almost 1.5 million youth made the pilgrimage this year, and 18 of them were from Regis Jesuit. Juniors Jenn Judge and Charlie Marks were two RJ students to experience World Youth Day 2011. Both of them went with groups from their churches. “It was really, really cool because they’re like my family so it was like being on a trip with my family and my friends at the same time,” Judge said. Marks was also able to bond with his group, especially since only nine of them went. “You build strong relationships with the people you go with,” he said. Typically, the pilgrims who attend World Youth Day stay in schools or churches that are sponsored by the event. In Madrid, Marks slept on classroom floors and Judge slept on the cafeteria floor. Both agreed that it was difficult to sleep, but they were able to find God through it all and realize that they could live with much less. “It was just so different than what I’m used to, but we were all so tired at the end of the day that it didn’t matter,” Judge said. Judge will always remember her time in
Spain, as it was one of the most difficult experiences of her life. She was only able to take two showers a week using a hose outside because she was sharing her accommodation with 100 other girls. She was supposed to see the Pope but didn’t because his route was changed and spent the majority of her time just waiting. “It was kind of ridiculous. It was so fun; I learned so much, but there was a point where I just broke down and couldn’t do it anymore because it was so hard,” Judge said. Every morning, Judge woke up around seven, ate breakfast and went to daily Mass and catechism classes. Then she went into town and decided which activity she wanted to wait in line for that day. All meals were late, and she usually didn’t get back until around midnight, but she still loved every minute of it. “I was so excited to be in the same country as basically the most important person on this world,” Judge said. Now that they are back at Regis Jesuit and back to class, both Judge and Marks feel bittersweet. “I was doing such exciting stuff last week and now I’m sitting here in class. But school in a lot of ways is a lot less difficult than my trip was. We had to suffer so much there and here it’s just laid out for me,” Judge said. Marks was also sad to come to school, but happy to have stories when he came back to his friends.
NEWS
The hallways buzz with excitement. Girls whisper in small groups about the experiences they had in the previous days. What happens on retreats at Regis Jesuit is always kept quiet. They are a unique experience for everyone. Keeping the secret of all the retreats at RJ is important so the girls experiencing the retreat can experience it for themselves rather than what they have heard from their fellow sisters. When retreatants already know what is going to happen it can negatively affect their retreat experience. “It didn’t make the secrets as exciting, and it made you think beforehand that you weren’t going to get as much out of it,” junior Amanda Cordova said. Whenever a group of girls get back from a retreat, there is a certain energy in the air that reflects how truly amazing an experience it was for them. Retreats at Regis Jesuit build on each other and become more impacting from freshman retreat, and into your choice of a retreat senior year. Retreats affect girls in different ways but ultimately bring our student community closer. “It (retreats) has shown all my sisters how to love one another through Christ and serve one another through Christ,” senior Elizabeth Zasowski said. Retreats help the students of Regis Jesuit become the women and men with and for others that students strive to become by graduation. Also, retreats cause the serperate classes and the school as a whole to become a close knit community where they can share in the lessons they have learned through the way they live. “It is up to the individuals to live out the lessons learned-we try, we fail and we try again. That’s the point: to keep trying,” pastoral director Doc. McCulloch said. The lessons learned over the time on retreat are unique to everyone but the purpose is to bring the students closer to God, themselves and their classmates. As the buzz of the hallways dissipate it is up to the young women and men of Regis Jesuit to live out the lessons they have learned, while letting their fellow brothers or sisters experience their own spiritual journey.
Right: (clockwise from top left) Gigi McWilliams ‘14, Brittany Mills ‘14, Julia Norton ‘14, Jordan Molyneaux ‘14, Mary Nordini ‘14, Sam Engalstad ‘12 on retreat in 2011 | Mary Nordini ‘14
“I loved seeing my friends again, but missing five days of school was hard to make up. The teachers were very understanding, but when you combine all the school work with jet-lag, it’s hard to stay on top of things,” he said. Kara Geraci ‘12 and Taylor Heinemeyer ‘12 on Marks and Judge would love to go again in 2013 when it will be hosted in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, and encourage anybody to go.
retreat in 2009 | Kathleen Kowalsky ‘12
The Retreat Buzz: “I am looking forward to retreats because I think it will be fun to bond with my class.” - CC Cutler ’15. “Yes, I do enjoy retreats. They are a way to see all your classmates in their outside environment. Yes I’m looking forward to sophomore retreat and can’t wait for Kairos!” - Wendy Dyer ’14. “I’m really glad that I can have a go into every retreat with an open mind and get out of it what is meant for me.”- Carla Meli ’13.
Left: Youth fill the streets at World Youth Day in Madrid. | Jenn Judge ‘13 Right: Jenn Judge ‘13 stops for a picture with her church group at World Youth Day. | Jenn Judge ‘13
“I have learned that God is everywhere and when you need him most just look inside yourself.”- Ashley Hatzenbihler ’12.
STUDENT LIFE
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RAIDERS DIGEST October 2011
The Senior’s Guide To The Next Step
College Check List
College process is difficult but not impossible Jacey Pisciotta ‘12 Getting ready for college is one of the most difficult experiences for any high school student during their senior year. There are a lot of big decisions to make, and a lot of steps to get there. Many get help from the RJ counselors, some work side by side with their parents, and others do it all on their own. Senior Nicole Barbera has spent many hours working on the applications for nine different colleges. Although most colleges work on the Common Application now, there are still schools that have their own application process. “CU or Loyola Marymount were so long and so pointless” Barbera said when asked what schools application was the hardest. When looking for the right college, it’s not all about the application process but also about the way people fit in there. “I look for location first, then
Applications:
majors, size, sports, and the community” Barbera says.
Common App: OR Personal App:
Senior Grace Maguire also looks at those personal requirements in the seven schools she’s applying too. Maguire also looks at the workout facilities and food choices in and around campus.
Test Scores: ACT: OR SAT:
Most RJ girls have heard about the schools they are applying to through coaches, friends and RJ counselors. It is a long process that can be frustrating, but with all the resources around, it becomes easier.
Letters of Recommendation: Counselor:
“I am so pumped for college!” Grace Maguire
It was easy for Barbera to choose Santa Clara as her number one school, and Maguire to pick Texas Christian University as hers.
“I’m very nervous. I don’t want it to come!” Nicole Barbera
Send in Applications: MAKE A CHOICE!!
Junior Tanya Glick reveals the contents of her pencil bag “I can’t live without everything in here!”- Tanya Glick
Chipolte 23%
Tokyo Joe's 10%
Eazor's 7%
Schlotzsky's 6%
Freddy's 9% Qdoba 18%
Interview at College Campus:
Pencil Bag Dissection
Favorite Senior Off Campus Lunch Spots
Which Wich 20%
Interviews:
Send Thank-You Note to Interviewer:
“TCU has amazing Greek life.” Maguire says. “It is gorgeous and I am in love.” Barbera says. They are very anxious for next year along with the rest of the senior class.
Teacher:
Panera 7%
PAGE 4
Invisible Children
Banned Books
Ashlan Runyan ‘13
Amy Stoeber ‘12
Join the front lines The gym is crowed—that is an all too familiar sight. But the girls filling the bleachers are actually excited to be there. That is a welcome change, certainly, especially because the anticipation floating around the audience is due to a social justice group called Invisible Children. As their presentation reaches its close girls clutch their wallets and eye the merchandise, fighting the urge to simply buy everything and while they’re at it, a plane ticket to Uganda. Now, I’m asking you to muster up all of that energy, and all of that money in your wallets, to support Invisible Children’s new campaign, Front Lines. Right now there is general “peace” in Uganda, meaning that the LRA (Lord’s Resistance Army) has left the country. The problem now is that the LRA is still active and Joseph Kony is fighting for his life in some of the most remote regions in the world: Democratic Republic of Congo, Central African Republic and South Sudan. The people in these areas have no idea what they are about to face and they have no way of keeping in contact with one another, at least not in a way fast enough to stop the LRA. This is where Invisible Children comes in with their Front Lines protection plan. They plan to build radio towers in these areas
that have two primary functions: to warn villages of coming attacks and LRA sightings, and to urge the soldiers to come home. They have already seen massive effects of this early warning radio system and Invisible Children believes that with our support, the war could be over and lasting peace could come about within a year if this program continues. The war can end within a year. That is absolutely crazy to think about, and what’s even stranger is the idea that we, as students at Regis Jesuit, can bring about that peace. All we have to do is continue to tell everyone who will listen (and if you follow my philosophy, even those who won’t) about what Invisible Children is trying to do and what the current situation is. Then, you can build your own Front Lines fundraising page through the Invisible Children website and join our school team called Regis Jesuit GD- HS. Donate a portion of your allowance, baby-sitting money or even the spare change that somehow magically spills out of couches, washing machines and old winter coats. We can do this, I know we can, we just need your help. Join the Front Lines.
How much do you really know? Imagine sitting in the big plush chairs in the library curled up with your favorite book. If you are imagining turning the pages of Harry Potter, Bridge to Terabithia or even a school novel like Catcher in the Rye, then imagine again. For many students these books are not even an option. With the help of banned book week in the library more students have become aware of the fact that in other places books are banned. But what does ‘banned’ really mean? According to the American Library Association books are usually banned “with the best intention to protect others, frequently children, from difficult ideas and information. Adults often censor books from children if they feel that the books have frightening or controversial ideas in them.” In short books that contain sexual content, drug use, rape or any other socially unacceptable action would be banned or challenged. At Regis Jesuit we celebrate our right to the First Amendment by reading what we choose. “Being a private school means that we are able to choose what we want to read and not have laws dictating what we should be reading,” Librarian Mrs. Whitley said.
As always, Justice League meets every Wednesday at lunch in room 213. All are welcome.
“Books expose you to different issues. It’s the real world,” 27 year teaching veteran, Mr. Gavato said.
November 5- Gunpowder Day November 6- Marooned Without a Compass Day November 7- Bitersweet Chocolate with Almonds Day November 9- Chaos Never Dies Day November 13- National Indian Pudding Day November 16- Have a Party with Your Bear Day November 17- National Take a Hike Day
Our faculty also agrees that reading banned books can be a positive learning tool for students. “Kids should read banned books, because if they don’t then how will they ever know what ‘banned’ material should be?” Mr. O’Dea said. “As long as they have the right teacher to teach the material.”
Special Holidays: October 27- National Tell a Story Day October 28- Plush Animal Lovers Day October 29- National Frankenstein Day October 30-National Candy Corn Day October 30- Increase Your Psychic Powers Day November 2- Look for Circles Day November 3- Sandwich Day November 4- King Tut Day
STUDENT LIFE
RAIDERS DIGEST October 2011
Many RJ students enjoy their right to freedom of expression through reading. “I think reading banned books is good. It gives us more opportunity for different books to read.” Junior Emily Kaiser said.
Next time you are sitting snuggled up with a book imagine if you weren’t able to read it and be thankful for your First Amendment freedoms. The Dictionary is a commonly used tool. | Amy Stoeber ‘12
Banned Books Read at RJHS: • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •
The Adventures of Huck Finn Glass Castle Grapes of Wrath Lord of the Flies Brave New World Uncle Tom’s Cabin A Wrinkle in Time Canturbury Tales Of Mice and Men To Kill a Mockingbird Twelfth Night Webster’s 9th Edition Dictionary Catcher in the Rye 1984 Their Eyes Were Watching God The Jungle
1984 and Catcher in the Rye are just two examples of the multiple banned books we read at Regis Jesuit. | Amy Stoeber ‘12
Yes, These Were Banned: • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •
Harry Potter Series Hunger Games The Bible The Koran TTYL Series Water for Elephants Animal Farm Carrie James and The Giant Peach Tarzan of the Apes The Da Vinci Code The Diary of Anne Frank Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland Bridge to Terabithia Little Red Riding Hood Call of the Wild The Exorcist Goosebumps Series Brown Bear, Brown Bear What do you See? Cujo I know Why the Caged Bird Sings The Shinging Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants
SPORTS
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RAIDERS DIGEST October 2011
Cross Country girls headed to state
Team places second at regionals, sends four runners on Cecilia Lone ‘15
The cross country team will advance to the state meet after a quality showing Regis Jesuit, The Raiders, who took second place as a team at the regional meet, will send a team to the state meet for the first time in 5A. They finished with four runners in the top 15 overall. Meredith Hoggatt (8th), Erin Schilmoeller (9th), Lindsey Koch (11th) and Madalyn Somer (15th). Emily Mauser, Hannah Feehan and Brooke Barlock also contributed to the win. Even the young runners went into regionals with confidence, knowing that they could help the team win. “I think we have all improved a lot from the beginning of the season, and a lot of us made our personal records at one of the meets,” freshman Nadia Postek said.
“I feel like I did my best this season, even after all of those days when I didn’t have the most energy.I wouldn’t have been able to do it without my coaches and my friends supporting me,” she said.
The varsity team, coached by Mr. Bruno ans Ms. Etling, will compete for their first ever state title on OCtober 29 at the Arapahoe County Fairgrounds.
Freshman Lauren Macias said, “The coaches (Etling and Bruno) always have good advice for us. They really care about the runners. They’re enthusiastic about running and our team and take it seriously.”
Cross Country girls, dressed as Coach Bruno, prepare for the Homecoming Parade. | Erin Schilmoeller ‘13
The runners are also very competitive. “We are always pushing ourselves for our PRs (personal records) and each other for better times too. State will determie how we are ranked as a team,” Macias said. “We have a lot confidence in ourselves and our teammates. The team captians, Collen Purr and Emily Mauser, are always supportive,” she added.
Aurora City Championship, Girls Varsity team members. | Erin Schilmoeller ‘13
Three Strikes and You’re Out JV softball team tests their limits
Who’s Rockin’ The Fashion?
Malia Jackson ‘15 The JV softball team holds their breath as the opposing team prepares to score, # 22 Kahle Collins, third baseman saves the team as she throws the runner out at home. The Varsity team coached by Charlie Williams, who trains the girls hard, has won 7 total games this season. There greatest victory was against Montbello with a total score of 24 to zero. George Hancock was credited as the game’s inventor for his development of a 17” ball and an undersized bat. The boxing glove tightened into a ball and a broom handle served as a bat. Today, softball is played in 100 different countries in the world. About 40 million Americans play at least one game of softball during a year. “I love having a support system of a team and I love the sport and the action,” said Emily Gamel ’15, Shortstop for Regis Jesuit JV softball team. The girls are passionate about playing
softball and do it for the love of the game. However, it would be appreciated if there was a bigger and better support system to all of the softball girls. “I don’t think we try to get recognized, we do it more for the love of the game. Sometimes it would be nice for people to show up to games, though,” Gamel said. Every sport starts out with an inspiration. “My inspiration for softball was playing little league baseball with my older brother, Zack,” Lexi Christopher ’15, Pitcher for Regis Jesuit JV softball team. “Baseball is a family tradition in my home, my grandfather, father, and brother all played baseball for Regis Jesuit. I met my future teammates at the softball camps before school started and I loved Coach Charlie.” Softball is a great way to meet friends and become close to people you never thought you would. “You get really close with your teammates and it’s a good way to let your anger out and you have a reason to get dirty,”
Mallory Littleton’15. So, what qualities should a good softball player have? This question is a hard one to answer for many softball players. “The number one quality is the desire to make “the play”. If you have aggressiveness and you’re not afraid to get dirty, you will have success in softball,” Christopher said.
for one another even though there are frustrations and conflicts. They are the inspiration to all of the Regis Jesuit students to keep encouraging each other, demonstrate real teamwork, and to love each other with all of our hearts.
All of the girls on the softball team are leaders based on their support, cooperation, and love
This months winner is... Emily Harpole. Emily rocks her fashion with a white Regis Jesuit polo with a pink sweater matched with a purple, blue, pink, and brown striped skirt.
“It’s all about being able to catch, throw, run, and hit, but you must also have a mental toughness to be able to handle a softball being thrown at you at 60 miles per hour.” Leaders in a sport are very important to the team. “Our team captains are the three juniors on our team. Everyone recognizes them as good leaders because of their age and experience. When I get the chance to pitch, I have the chance to lead our infield during the game,” said Christopher.
Every month, the Raiders Digest will be searching for students who are rocking their style.
Be on the lookout... Lexi Christopher ’15 bats her way to victory. | Malia Jackson ‘15
PAGE 6
Its Not Just About the Score
Field hockey excels due to friendships made Elizabeth Weis ‘12
F
ield hockey, a sport that has been around for nearly 4,000 years originating with the Aztecs and Egyptians, has only been at Regis for three years. The sport requires dedication, a positive attitude, and confidence. However, the dedication given to a sport isn’t always about winning or losing. Sometimes, it’s about the bond between teammates and their coaches. “I like my team the best. They’re fantastic,” senior Jacey Pisciotta said. The Regis Jesuit High School Girls field hockey team has an unbreakable friendship with one another and their coach, Spencer Wagner. Spencer Wagner has been playing field hockey since he was six years old and brings his experience to the team. “He really knows what he’s talking about,” Jacey Pisciotta said.
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SPORTS
RAIDERS DIGEST October 2011
Spencer Wagner also knows how to get the girls pumped up before a game. “Before a game we dance and sing to our warm up CD playing The Backestreet Boys and Brittney Spears,” senior Lauren Brendel said. With team bonding activities, the team becomes even closer. “I have become closer with my team because of our team sleep over at the beginning of the season and also team dinners throughout. We have all bonded, and we have fun practice,” Team captain Lauren Brendel said. Their great teamwork skills have brought them an amazing season. “Our best game was against Palmer Ridge. It was our best because they were undefeated and we beat them 2-0 ,” Jacey Pisciotta said. With a great start to their year, the team is determined to improve even more. “We have improved so much and I believe
we can show our true potential,” Lauren Brendel said. The field hockey team is ranked 7th in the state of Colorado. The top three teams are Mountain Vista, Kent, and Colorado Academy. This year, the field hockey team is taking on new challenges. “We’re in playoffs this year for the first time. It should be interesting to see how we do,” Jacey Pisciotta said. Their first round of playoffs is at Colorado Academy. With teamwork, the team will have no problem overcoming future challenges. The team’s unbreakable bond allows them to support each other and help each other improve their skills.
RJ Field Hockey Record: 4-7-2 Playoff bound...
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1. Taylor Walker 2. Faye Hubregsen and Caroline Law, 3. Rachel Williams 4. Taylor Walker Elizabeth Weis 12’
Winter Sports Are Just Around The Corner BASKETBALL SCHEDULE January: 6th: vs GEORGE WASHINGTION-7PM 7th: vs PINE CREEK-7PM 11th: vs PONDEROSA 14th: vs CASTLEVIEW 18th: vs TRIDGE 21st: vs LEGEND 25th: vs MTN VISTA February: 1st: vs ROCK CANYON 5th: vs HRANCH 8th: vs HERITAGE 11th: vs CHAPARRAL 15th: vs LITTLETON 17th: vs DCHS 25th-26th: STATE
SWIM AND DIVE Time Trials: November Monday the 7thFriday the 11th 5am-7am Diving: November Monday the 14thFriday the 18th 5am-7am
Come Support Regis Jesuit Girls Winter Sports!
Sports Updates CHEER: V Captains: Lauren Troksa, Emily Mika, Christine La Rank: 3rd in State last year
POMS: V Captains: Dana Ostrander, Stella Sam, Tatum Pomeroy Rank: Returning State Champions
VOLLEYBALL: V Captains: Sarah Schmid, Eli Svisco, Janae Hall V Record: 15-1 Rank: 2nd in the State JV Captain: Kassie Petko JV Record: 15-2
SOFT BALL: V Captains: Ciana Wilkening, Taylor Caldwell JV Captains: Emma Bohn, Kahle Collins, Sarah Coyne
CROSS COUNTRY: V Captains: Sara Long, Claire Horrigan, Emily Mauser, Meaghan McGann, Alena Payne Rank: Determined at State
FIELD HOCKEY: V Captains: Lauren Cramer, Lauren Brendel, Faye Hubregsen Rank: 7th in the State JV Captains: Kendall Higgins, Jenny Biernat
FEATURES
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RAIDERS DIGEST October 2011
Twice as Much to Love Regis Jesuit twins of 2012
Whose Shoes?
Can you guess their shoes?
Alex Mohr ‘12
M
Cecilia Lone ‘15
ost people have siblings that are either older or younger than them, but what about having a twin?
1.
The difference between fraternal and identical twins is that fraternal twins are two separate eggs fertilized by two separate sperm to form two separate embryos and then make two separate babies.
Lance and Alex Harding
Fraternal twins make up approximately 75% of the twin population and can be boy/boy, girl/ girl, or boy/girl sets.
enior Alex Harding has a fraternal twin, Lance, who goes to East High School
amie and Jacob Monk are the second pair of fraternal twins at Regis Jesuit.
“I’ve learned to not be so sensitive because it’s one thing to have a brother, but another to have a twin brother. They are sure to always pick on you. I’ve embraced my tomboy side more because I am always forced into boy situations as well,” Alex said.
Identical twins are formed when one fertilized egg divides into two separate embryos to make two babies. At Regis Jesuit we have a number of pairs of fraternal twins in the senior class of 2012, here are three of them.
S
The hardest part about being a twin? “Definetley seeing the other fail or struggle,” Alex said. Favorite thing to do together? “We are really close, but I’d say playing guitar together,” Lance said.
Jamie and Jacob Monk
Garrett and Courtney Cochran
J
C
“Something we like doing is just sitting down and watching TV together. Being able to watch awful TV is a great past time we will have to look back on,” Jacob said.
“Most of the time, having a twin makes it much easier to make friends because I meet more people and can hang out with her friends when she does,” Garrett said.
“The hardest part is sometimes being in their shadow. It’s tough to only be known as ‘Monk’s sister,’ ” Jamie said. Who was born first? “Jacob was born first, but we’re total opposites personality-wise. I am more high strung and adventurous while he is more laid back,” Jamie said.
ourtney and Garrett Cochran are also senior fraternal twins at Regis Jesuit.
The best part about having a twin?
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“I don’t have to always buy boy sweaters, I can raid Garrett’s closet,” Courtney said. Fun side note: “I have a large flat spot on my head because Garrett was heavier than me in Mama Cochran’s belly and he squished me,” Courtney said.
4.
Prepare for the scare How will you spend your Halloween?
Halloween activities include trick-or-treating, attending costume parties, carving jack-o’lanterns, apple bobbing, visiting haunted houses, playing pranks, telling scary stories, and watching horror movies. Halloween is the second most commercially successful holiday in the world after Christmas. Making a decision on what to do on that exciting evening might be tough, but you’ll have a blast no matter what. Halloween is the last day of the Celtic calendar. It was originally a pagan holiday honoring the dead. Halloween was referred
All Hallows Eve is the evening before All Saints Day, a holiday that was created by Christians to convert pagans. It is celebrated on November 1st. The Catholic Church honored saints on this designated day.
forget your fear of scary monsters and get cavities.
“If you’re planning on going to a haunted house, it’s recommended that you bring an extra pair of pants! Haunted houses are so scary!” freshman Ashley Fernstedt says. You will most likely be scared before you even walk in. Some may Expect random think trick-orthings to pop out treating is for at you. Screams kids only. No matter will be heard what grade Jess Lechman ‘15 shows off the latest Halfrom everyyou are in: loween fashion | Sofia Evangelista ‘15 where and you might freshman, have nightmares. sophomore, junior, or even a senior, you are never too old to Another way to spend the night go trick-or-treating. is just to hang out at home and watch scary films. Although, Why is it such a big deal? You get free candy. Trick-or-treating it is advised that you bring a is such a great way to have fun, blanket, watch the movie with
the lights on and watch a comedy right after. There are so many ways to spend a Halloween night. This fantastic holiday only comes around once a year, so make it the most of it. Always remember that you aren’t young forever so make these special holidays count.
A. Olivia Osland B. Colleen Puhr C. Delaney Lanker D. Abbey Jacoba
Haunted Houses near RJ The 13th Door – Aurora Slaughterhouse Gulch – Aurora Dungeon of Terror – Denver Elitch Gardens – Fright Fest – Denver Field of Corpses – Arvada Frightmare Compound - Arvada The Haunted House - Northglenn Haunted Mansion – Littleton Haunted Field of Screams – Arvada Primitive Fear – Commerce City 4. A
The adrenaline is rushing, the hearts are pumping and the screams are loud. That’s right, it’s that time of year- Halloween. How will you spend yours? Trickor-treating? Haunted house? A party?
to as All Hallows Eve and dates back to over 2000 years ago.
Answers 1. D 2. B 3. C
Sofia Evangelista ‘15
Welcome to the Jungle Homecoming 2011
Boys’ Divis ion Mass
y a d n Mo
Tuesday
Wedn
esday
Bro Day Emily Dornbos ‘12 Spirit week: one of the most anticipated weeks of the school year. What is it about spirit week that gets people so fired up? Is it the free dress? The fun themes? The parade? Although these factors are very exciting, they’re not what make the week special. Everyone knows that when a spirit week comes around, an awesome dance is bound to follow. Throughout the many
years of Regis Jesuit Homecoming, themes have ranged from A Night in the Gym to Raiders of the Lost Ark . This year we were welcomed to the jungle. The Spirit Days that
happen during the week often have individual themes that are somehow connected to the overall theme of Homecoming.
THE GUYS
These themes change over time and new traditions are started. However, one theme that is used every year is Raider day. Overall, Spirit Week was a big success and many people enjoyed Homecoming as well. The decorations were unique and entertaining. Now, we are looking forward to Snoball and its spirit week. Will it be as awesome?
Dress Like a Teacher Twinkie Eating Contest
SPIRIT WEEK Photos by: Allie Petko ‘13, Emily Dornbos ‘12, Danny Pan ‘14, Jackson Burkholder ‘14, and Eric Brunts ‘12.
Jersey Day
Design by: Michael Harpole ‘12
Saturday
Thurs
day
We’ve Got Spirit Or Do we... Gina Nordini ‘12
The best dressed guys were definitely Eric Heringer and Truck! They went together stag, wore jean shirts, and had name tags saying they were single. It was hilarious. -Jake Nucci ‘12
On October 7, RJHS students gathered to celebrate the end of Homecoming Spirit Week with a parade and pep rally. As the clubs marched by, it became obvious that something was missing. There were no motor vehicles.
“If I could rate homecoming from 1 to 10, I would say a 2. I had more fun paying for dinner than I did at the dance.” -Charlie Schmidt ‘13 “I wish the weather could have been better so that homecoming was outside on the green. -Grant Neal ‘14
“Last year there were a lot of people jumping in and out of cars,” Girls Division Student Body Co-
“I liked the shirts a lot, but I didn’t really see the theme in the dance that much.” -Paul Brunts ‘15
Homecoming Dance
President Christine La said. This year, only ‘human powered vehicles’ were allowed in the parade. Although a few bikes, long boards, and wagons were seen, most people opted to walk “We just kind of took precaution. We [had] a walking parade to avoid vehicle injuries,” Girls Division Student Body Co-President Jenny Evans said.
Parade & Pep Rally
As the rules for Spirit Week activities increase each year, a question arises. Do all these regulations affect participation? On a scale of 1 to 10, “I’d say current participation is a four,” Evans said. “It’s been getting worse.” Just three days before the parade, only four of RJ’s many clubs completed their registration to participate. For a school that boasts about its enthusiasm, why does such a minority of students actually
y a d i Fr
demonstrate this enthusiasm during Spirit Week? Rules cannot be entirely to blame for limited school spirit. “There’s so much stuff we can do within the restrictions. We just have to be more creative,” Evans said. “And we’re up to the challenge,” junior and treasurer-in-training Emma Bohn said. The Girls Student Council is confident that plans for Snoball in January will stir up school spirit.
On the 1 to 10 scale, “For Snoball, I expect an 11... Snoball 2012: It’s going to be a party,” Evans said. Some are already guessing the upcoming theme for Girls Spirit Week. The Student Council representatives remain tightlipped on the theme, but they did provide this hint: Snoball’s theme is not “Tropic Like It’s Hot.” “There’s apparently a rumor about that. It’s not true. Not Tropic Like It’s Hot,” Bohn said.
PAGE 10
Making an Impact Regis Jesuit students experience the importance of service Ciana Wilkening‘12 Thump. Roll. Crash. Cheers. Another strike for one of the athletes competing in the Special Olympics bowling tournament on Sunday, October 9, 2011 at Brunswick Zone in Aurora. Members of the Regis Jesuit Special Olympics Club high-five the athlete in congratulations and cheer on the other participants. Five years ago, Assistant Girls Division Librarian , Mrs. Whitley, participated in a Special Olympics bocce tournament hosted by Regis Jesuit High School. The rest is history. “There was a Special Olympics club over in the Boys Division and Mrs. Dorsey, who ran that, said, ‘You should get one started in the Girls Division.’ So I don’t know if I was the first one but that’s how it worked for me,” Mrs. Whitley said. Now, Special
FEATURES
RAIDERS DIGEST October 2011 fact that they were competitors. Along with Evans, senior Hayley Skinner also developed friendships with the athletes. “The people there were so excited and happy just to have us there,” Skinner said. The Regis Jesuit volunteers at the event ranged from first-time workers to those like Evans who have been in the club for years. Volunteering at Special Olympics events challenge the individuals to step out of their
Olympics is the largest club at Regis Jesuit with about 174 members.
“I loved helping out. The bowlers appreciate the little things in life, and it inspires me to look at things the way they do,” junior first-time volunteer Sarah Coyne said. The impact that the athletes have on Regis Jesuit students may be more profound than students realize going into the events. “By the end of the day you guys have opened up and you can just see the change that you guys have experienced and how much love you have experienced,” Mrs. Whitley said.
The current president of the club is senior Jenny Evans, who joined the club as a freshman. “At first I joined because I needed service hours, then I fell in love with the athletes,” Evans said. It is easy to see why Evans took such a liking to the athletes. At the bowling event, the participants all encouraged and supported each other, ignoring the
The experience has an impact on every student regardless of how long they have been in the club.
comfort zone. “If it’s your first experience working with the athletes you can be a bit hesitant, but once you just relax and open yourself up, you’ll be filled with love because they’re just so loving and kind,” Mrs. Whitley said.
In addition to being a loving experience, Special Olympics is also a learning experience.
A Regis Jesuit student assists an athlete at the bowling competition. | Ciana Wilkening ‘12
sion and optimism, because all of the athletes are so optimistic,” Evans said. “It just puts you in a better mood when you’re done.” When they volunteer for a Special Olympics event, many Regis Jesuit students think about the impact that they will have on the athletes. However, in the midst of the clap, roll, crash, and cheers of the bowling alley, they find that the athletes have had more of an impact on them than they ever thought possible.
“I had a lot of fun and got to learn new things,” freshman Katie Templeton said. Evans has also learned a lot over the past few years. “I’ve learned things about patience, compas-
Athletes congratulate each other after getting a strike. | Ciana Wilkening ‘12
RJ students Lauren Brendel ‘12 and Sarah Coyne ‘13 with two athletes at the bowling event on Sunday, October ninth. | Ciana Wilkening ‘12
RAIDERS DIGEST October 2011 FEATURES America’s Got Talent at Regis Jesuit Artwork in the Quad
PAGE 11
An inside look at Mika Nagamoto’s experience Mackenzie Rossi ‘12
O
ur very own freshman Mika Nagamoto competed on America’s Got Talent with her group called The Silhouettes. The Silhouettes received 2nd place on season 6 of America’s Got Talent, following Landau, a soulful singer. Mika started dancing when she was three years old. She does jazz, tap, ballet, lyrical, modern, hip-hop, salsa, and shadow. She joined Rocky Mountain School of Dance and started competing with their company last year. The group that Mika is in is called The Silhouettes. The dancers use their movements to tell a story. A big screen is put up and their shadows make pictures to tell the story. The Silhouettes try to inspire people; they stand for creativity and good will.
inely good people. They were not “superficially Hollywood,” like most people would think. For anyone trying to jumpstart a career in show business, you need to love what you are doing. Whether it is dancing, singing, acting, etc. know what you love and trust yourself. Make as many connections as you can. That will help to get your
name out and people will start to recognize you. “The most important thing is to stay humble.” Mika says. “Mika is still the same kid and continues to be humble, but our life is forever changed,” says Mrs. Nagamoto. “Follow your dreams and see what happens.” We now know that dreams can come true.
During the show, Mika was very busy with rehearsals, interviews, and the show in general. She was also going to school at the same time. NBC hired tutors to work with the contestants that were going to school. She had four hours a day for schoolwork. Mika talked with all her teachers before leaving and she utilized any free time that she had to do some work. Mika described the experience as, “It was like I walked into a dream.” She said, “The whole experience was amazing.” Performing on the stage with all the support was Mika’s favorite part about being on America’s Got Talent. She learned many life lessons and was able to see what show business is like. Mrs. Nagamoto, Mika’s mom, feels like this experience was able to show the dancers how hard you have to work to be able to become a professional. Also, she was surprised that the crew and producers are genu-
You walk past them every time you go through the quad. But have you ever stopped to wonder where “The Dancing Girl” and “Jesus Statue” came from? Free Spirit Artist: Moana Ponder Donated by Mike and Carleen Haselden, parents of RJHS alumni from the Girls Division
Jesus Christ Donated by Greg and Sue Stevinson, parents of RJHS alumni from the Boys Division
“It was like I walked into a dream.” Top: Mika and Landau outside rehearsal, in Los Angeles, California. | Becky Nagamoto Bottom: The Silhouettes after they found out the news of moving into the top four. | Becky Nagamoto
“The most important thing is to stay humble.”
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ENTERTAINMENT
RAIDERS DIGEST October 2011
In with the New
Read Emma Carroll’s Culture Guru column on the RJ Voice
Expectations high for Fall album releases Emma Carroll ‘13
Fall is a season of new—new fashion, new theatre, new film, new music. While pop artists strive to release a chart-topping summer jam come the dog days, most, if not all, of the best music from the best artists comes out long after school has resumed. This fall brings Florence + the Machine changing her sound, Patrick Stump breaking free, and Drake’s sophomore effort. Sounds like the world is in for a music makeover.
Patrick Stump
Justice
Forget Pete Wentz. The former Fall Out Boy front man has gone solo and ditched the pop-punk sound.
Fear not, dance fanatics! Justice is up and running with a gloriously catchy single “Civilization” and they are ready to drop Audio, Video, Disco on October 25.
“I don’t want to remake records I made ten years ago,” he says and FOB fans should The French duo of Xavier take note. de Rosnay and Gaspard Auge say they’re “just good Stump is all grown up and enough,” but if the other emerging out of mediocrity. songs on the album live up Soul Punk dropped on Octo- to “Civilization,” the critics ber 18. will be singing their praises.
Fall TV Premieres
Florence+ the Machine
Drake
In his sophomore album, breakthrough album Lungs? Drake attempts to delve deeper into subjects--far deeper than he did in his Florence Welch is attemptfreshman effort, Thank Me ing to do just that by dropping the heavy ethereal vibe Later. and adding fierce beats, Take Care features collabostriving for something rations with Lil Wayne, Ste“tougher, almost violent.” vie Wonder, and Rick Ross, showing that Drake is ready Her debut single of the alto learn from his superiors. bum, “What the Water How do you top the stunning
Gave Me” is a snapshot of the effort, and a great one at that. Ceremonies drops November 15.
Take Care will be released October 24.
Coldplay The sensational single “Every Teardrop is a Waterfall” should turn out to be a brilliant precursor to Mylo Xyloto, two years in the making. The band’s fifth LP strives to be easily distinguished from their others, with producer Brian Eno laying ground rules to keep them from hitting repeat on their sound. Mylo Xyloto (brownie points for pronouncing it right) drops October 24.
Into the Woods RJ Fall Play
Sunday Kendra E! 11:00 Monday Dancing With The Stars ABC 8:00 Gossip Girl CW 8:00 Tuesday Dancing With The Stars Results 9:00 90210 The CW 8:00 Glee Fox 8:00 Wednesday Modern Family ABC 9:00 Revenge ABC 10:00 Thursday Vampire Diaries CW 8:00
Into the Woods combines the fairy tales of Cinderella, Rapunzel, Jack and the Beanstalk and Little Red Riding Hood with the story of the Baker and his Wife who desperately want a child. Into the Woods combines classic fairytales and reality in this amazing production and should be entertaining for all ages!
Showtimes at Colorado Heights University: November 12 2pm and 7pm November 13 6pm
Tickets:
All Regis Jesuit students: Free General Admission: $15
ENTERTAINMENT
Page 13
RAIDERS DIGEST October 2011
Who Really Knows You?
How much do your friends and teachers know about you? Jessee Weed ‘13 Raiders Digest stopped Kendall Higgins ‘13 and asked her to answer a few personal questions for us. She told us her best friend was Kaley Cohen ‘13 and her favorite teacher is Ms. Trollinger. We wanted to see how well they really knew Kendall, so we asked them to answer the same questions. Here’s what they said: The Questions: 1. Favorite Movie 2. Favorite Food 3. Favorite Number 4. Favorite Athlete 5. Favorite Country 6. Favorite Sport to Watch
Kendall
Kaley
A documentary. I She’s the Man don’t know which one. Wasa Crackers Pasta
Ms. Trollinger A chick flick of some sort Spaghetti
7
10
3
Some USA field hockey player London
Joe Sakic
Some cute athlete
England
England
Hockey
Ice Hockey
Blue
Green
Field Hockey or Swimming Blue
Kendall and Kaley celebrate Kendall’s 17th Birthday at the Brown Palace. | Maddy Krause ‘13
What's in your wallet? Inside a girl’s wallet... Sephora Gift Cardfor those make-up mishaps Build A Bear “Stuff fur Stuff” club carda must-have for every wallet.
Drivers License,RJ Student I.D., Debit Card
$25 Gift Card to Game StopSurprised? Neither was I
Demerit card
Frozen Yogurt Punch Card
Always a good thing to haveextra cash Starbucks Gift Card
Old Receipts for that thing you don’t even remember buying
Inside a boy’s wallet...
Gym membership? (to work off that McDonald’s gift card)
PAGE 14
OPINION
RAIDERS DIGEST October 2011
Reaching for the Star... bucks Uncovering RJ Girls’ Obvious Addiction Katherine Hardy ‘12 You’re not the only one.
Jessica Chochran ‘12 and Mrs. Lynch spotted in the hall with Starbucks’ drinks. | Katherine Hardy ‘12 You walk in the doors and smell the fresh brewed coffee. Soft music plays in the background. Green-colored merchandise covers the walls. You go up to the front counter and order a cup of liquid bliss. Then, you walk over to the lounge chairs where your friends are already waiting for you and enjoy your drink. As you take that long awaited first sip, you realize that there really is no other place like Starbucks.
Annie Hildner ‘12 thrilled about having her mornig Starbucks.. | Katherine Hardy ‘12
In 1971, the first Starbucks was opened. Now, 40 years later, Starbucks has become a worldwide phenomenon, with more than 15,000 in 50 different countries. Even the Starbucks Facebook has 25,415,204 likes.
one without a Starbucks’ drink in their hand. Girls have a drink with them throughout the day and teachers can be spotted with one too.
It’s not uncommon to walk into the Starbucks at Arapahoe Crossings and see a hoard of Regis Jesuit students occupying the tables and chairs. Many students spend the majority of their free time there, before and after school.
But at Regis Jesuit, Starbucks is more than just the friendly neighborhood coffee shop; it’s an addiction. Starbucks is almost a source of life. Without it, break downs would ensue.
Why is it that students can always be found at the local Starbucks?
“I would curl up into the fetal position and cry for a week,” Tara said. Other said that crying would definitely be involved in the loss of Starbucks.
“It’s a place that’s warm in the winter time and it reminds me of good experiences I’ve had with my friends,” sophomore Kate Tara said.
“I’d probably lose a major social aspect of my life. It’s a very good meeting place,” senior Annie Hildner said.
For others, it’s more than the feelings that Starbucks brings to them. It is also about the experiences they have there. “Austin [Galoob, senior] and I were trying to people watch and we’re attempting to explain what people watching was to a friend, who then proceeded to stare at the person we were
creeping on,” junior Christie McKernan said.
So whether it’s for the coffee, atmosphere, or the simple fact that Regis Jesuit is across the street, it’s very apparent that Starbucks and RJ go hand in hand.
Walking down the halls, it’s almost impossible to find some-
How well do you know Starbucks? 1) If someone orders a “White Mocha”, it’s the same thing as a “White Chocolate Mocha”. a. True b. False
2) A blended, cold drink mixed with caramel sauce is called a “Caramel _______”. a. Latte b. Frappuccino c. Iced Coffee
3) In what U.S. state was Starbucks founded in? a. Washington b. California c. Maine
d. Florida
4) Starbucks partly got its name from the Captain’s first mate, _______, in the novel “Moby Dick”. a. Buck b. Star c. Starbuck
First person to send their answers to rjdigest@gmail.com and get them right receives a $5 giftcard to Starbucks!
Kate Tara showing her enthusiasm for Starbucks. | Katherine Hardy ‘12
Molly Martin walknig into school with her favorite Starbucks drink. | Katherine Hardy ‘12
What’s your favorite drink? “Co-co cappuccino but it changes all the time.” -Annie Hildner ‘12 “My favorite Starbucks drink is a soy pumpkin spice latte. I like the fall season and don’t drink milk.” -Christie McKernan ‘13 “Considering that I always get hot water and honey, it says that I’m cheap.” -Kate Tara ‘14 “I like me some passion tea lemonade.” -Rosie Seidel ‘12
OPINION
RAIDERS DIGEST October 2011
Cheering for Regis Jesuit Is there a double standard?
Gabby Chavez ‘12
How many RJ boys sporting events have you attended over the years? How about girls sporting events? If you have never been to a girls’ game, don’t feel like you’re the only guilty one.
but not the other?
Throughout the years many RJ students attend football, basketball and boys games, but what about the attendance of the girls’ sports such as volleyball? Attendance at girls sporting events is often very low.
On that same note: “Boys games have rowdies and dance parties,” senior Elizabeth Jackson said.
“I don’t attend girls sports games because I am not told about any of them. And they really don’t entertain me,” said senior Matt Boselli said.
Dance parties or no dance parties, it is disappointing that so few boys come to support girls events, while so many girls support them.
Why is that? What is the difference between the two that makes you want to attend one
Page 15
“I think the boys should go to girls’ games because we support them and they don’t really care about us, so they make girls games look lame,” Jackson said. Are the boys really supporting Regis Jesuit as a whole? “I am still supporting the whole school because I still want them to win. It’s not like I dislike the girls teams, it’s just that I don’t want to go to the games,”Boselli said. Regis Jesuit is doing a good job at having the two divisions interact with each other and become one school. Sometimes, the divisions come together and share in events such as pep rallies.
gis Jesuit is ONE school and our athletics program is ONE. We should all support each other in the stands.
“I think the all school pep rally was actually a really good idea; we should do those more often and the guys should make more of an effort to support girls sports cause we are actually really good,” Jackson says. Some girls go as far as to feel that the boys hate girls, but when it comes down to it all Re-
Girls cheering for the volleyball team | Elizabeth Weis ‘12
Both divisions come together for pep assembly | Kristi Dooley ‘12
Girls cheering for the football team | Allie Petko ‘13
Social Media Rivalry
Facebook or Twitter...Which twin is right? Christina Bakhour ‘12 The phenomenon of social networking has flourished over the last four years, bringing about a number of sites including two major networks, Facebook and Twitter. Both sites have been classified as the largest sources for social media. However, the differences between the two networks are substantial and in some ways, a direct comparison between the two is actually difficult to make.
about which social networking site is “better.” Facebook appeals to people looking to reconnect with old friends and family members, or to find new friends online. Many users are familiar with a variety of features including email, instant messaging and image/ video sharing.
Both sites are preferred social networks among the Regis Jesuit community. However— as with any topic—there is always room for debate. Even among families there are often differing opinions. For senior twins Jamie and Jacob Monk, they constantly argue
ACEBOOK
VS.
Facebook Users: 155, 741, 320
“Facebook is so convenient. I always know that there is at least one classmate from each of my classes online to discuss homework, if needed. I also enjoy being able to connect and look at groups of people from Regis [Jesuit],” Jacob said. Twitter, on the other hand, encourages the user to grab
WITTER Twitter Users: 105,779,710
Right: Kendra Schraeder & Coleen Klingler enjoy serfing thier favorite social network. | Christina Bakhour ‘12
concepts in byte-size chunks. Tweets are used as jumping off points to other places or to let others know what you’re up to at any given moment. “I tweet about four or five times a day. I tweet because I want my friends to know what I’m doing, especially when there are funny moments in my day. My tweets are a way of telling people information even if I don’t talk to them daily,” Jamie said. Facebook users prefer the social portal model versus having to log onto various other sites to access applications. Facebook gives users a single alternative to all applications, with one login and interface to manage their online social interaction needs. This largely explains the constantly growing Facebook community. “Essentially all of my friends have a Facebook account, and find it the best way to connect with me outside of school and sports,” Jacob said. The usefulness of Twitter is not apparent to some users of Facebook. The user creates more immediate responses, and it’s pur-
pose seems to live somewhere between the worlds of email, instant messaging and blogging. Twitter encourages constant links, and in that respect is more related to a pure search engine with a way to connect people and to other things. “Twitter is confusing at first. However, it is brief and to the point unlike Facebook. I love hash tagging; it makes my life complete. Hash tagging is the use of the number sign (#) to say whatever the tweet is about or to find a way to generalize the tweet,” Jamie said. Twitter and Facebook are both though to be superior over one
another, but each has its own set of strengths and weaknesses. The debate continues, as the sites tend to appeal over the other to different audiences for different reasons. Jacob believes that Facebook is the better option for social networking, as it is more popular among high school students. However, Jamie obviously has her own reasons for preferring the opposite, Twitter. Which twin do you think is right?
PAGE 16
RAIDERS DIGEST October 2011
What Did She Just Say?
Alex Mohr ‘12
Out of context: conversations in the halls and classrooms “Babies winning on horsebacks, ahh attack.”
“I kind of look like Matt Damon anyways.”
“I believe in a thing called love.”
“You haven’t changed since freshman year.”
Regis Jesuit High School Newspaper Staff
“If they come at me with a chainsaw . . .
Artist of the Month
Raiders Digest
Editors-In-Chief Gina Nordini, Gaby Ake Associate Ed-In-Chief: Design Alex Mohr Associate of Design Delaney Lanker Features Section Editor - Christina Bakhour, Gabby Chavez Features Associate -Cecilia Lone Sports Editor - Ciana Wilkening Sports Associate - Sophia Evangelista News Section Editor - Mackenzie Rossi Associate - Jessee Weed Editorial/Opinion Section Editor- Amy Stoeber Entertainment/Lifestyle Section Editor - Elizabeth Weis Photography Editor - Christina Bakhour Associate Photography Editor - Malia Jackson Clubs and Organizations Beat Editor - Jacey Pisciotta Publicity Chair - Katherine Hardy Business Manager - Emily Dornbos
The Raider Review
Editor-In-Chief Associate Ed-In-Chief: Design Associate Ed-In-Chief: Web
Benton Waterous Michael Harpole Morgan Jones
This month’s winner is sophomore Kate Tara. She has been taking pictures since she was seven years old. Tara captured and edited both of the featured pictures.
THE END Letter From the Editors Ladies, Fall is here and the school year is in full swing! We hope that your school year has been going great. Fall sports have just about ended and winter sports are about to start. The falls teams have fantastic achievements under their belts and we’d like to congratulate them all for their fantastic seasons. And you can be sure that we’ll be reporting on the winter sports’ accomplisments, including your current 5A state champion swimmers! Remember to pick up your Into the Woods tickets for the weekend of November 12th -13th. They are free to students! The RJ theatre has been working hard for weeks to put on a fantastic musical for you. Please congratulate and commend members of theater for their accomplishments! We hope you had a great and productive 5-day weekend! And have a HAPPY HALLOWEEN! Your Editors-in-Chief,
Features Editor - Evan Batten Sports Editor - Peter Bayer Clubs and Organizations Beat Editor - Matt Boselli Entertainment Editor - Ryan Ford Photography Editor - Danny Phannenstiel News Editor - CJ Madril Publicity Chair - Connor Lehr Opinion Editor - Anthony Fante Business Manager - Eric Brunts
Freelancers
Danny Pan, Andre Gianfrancesco, Emma Carroll, Allie Petko, Jackson Berkholder, Ashlan Runyan
Gina Nordini ‘12 and Gaby Ake ‘12