Thursday, April 27, 2023 Vol. 132, No. 30

THE ROCKY MOUNTAIN

FORT COLLINS FOCUS

TOP STORIES TOP STORIES

NEWS: Learning Express Toys puts community first PAGE 4

LIFE: How to enjoy Rocky Mountain National Park as a CSU Ram PAGE 6

CANNABIS: Weed to Know: 5 phrases to help you grind in with the smoke sesh PAGE 8

OPINION: Eckburg: Gen Z made ethical consumption trendy PAGE 14

SPORTS: Hornbuckle twins’ softball connection comes from their roots PAGE 19

ARTS: Repeat Boutique: Affordable, sustainable shopping PAGE 21

PHOTO: Day in the life: Balancing studies, family PAGES 10 & 11

FOCO EVENTS FOCO EVENTS

Javanese Ballet & Shadow Puppet

Performance at the Gregor Allicar Museum of Art 2-3 p.m. April 29

Spring Market at Ginger and Baker

9 a.m. to 4 p.m. April 30

CSU Concert Band Concert: Momentum at the University Center for the Arts

7:30 p.m. May 1

LETTER TO THE EDITOR

Letters to the Editor reflect the view of a member of the campus community and are submitted to the publication for approval. Readers may submit letters to letters@collegian.com. Please follow the guidelines listed at collegian.com before submitting.

Hazel Daigneault, Colorado State University student and DJ/producer with the stage name “HAZELHATESYOU,” performs her set at CSU’s Enchanted Forest-themed Queer Prom

the Lory Student Center Theatre April 21. Daigneault played her first show in June 2022 and was booked for for a sold out show at the Aggie Theater in Fort Collins the following August. “I work a lot with community-based organizations, and I feel like that’s one of the more important things about music,” Daigneault said. “I work with multiple people that have recovery stories based through music, … and it really helped them through a tough time. So being able to perform an event like this for a marginalized community at my college is honestly an opportunity that I just can’t pass up. I know everybody here is out here to have a good time and that they probably might not have gotten a prom. … That’s why getting to work with the people that are involved is also great.”

Lory Student Center, Suite 118 Fort Collins, CO 80523

JAKE SHERLOCK STUDENT MEDIA ADVISER

KIM BLUMHARDT ADVERTISING MANAGER

ASHER KORN KCSU ADVISER CHRISTA REED SENIOR MEDIA TRAINER

This publication is not an official publication of Colorado State University, but is published by an independent corporation using the name ‘The Rocky Mountain Collegian’ pursuant to a license granted by CSU. Approximately 59% of Rocky Mountain Student Media Corp’s income is provided by the Associated Students of Colorado State University (ASCSU) for the purpose of fostering student careers post-college and greater campus awareness and engagement. The Rocky Mountain Collegian is a 4,000-circulation student-run newspaper intended as a public forum and is printed on paper made of 30% post-consumer waste. It publishes every Thursday during the regular fall and spring semesters. The Collegian publishes online Monday through Thursday. Corrections may be submitted to the editor in chief and will be printed as necessary on page two. The Collegian is a complimentary publication for the Fort Collins community. The first copy is free. Additional copies are 25 cents each.

CORRECTIONS

Everybody makes mistakes, including us. If you encounter something in the paper you believe to be an error, please contact us at: copy@collegian.com.

EDITORIAL STAFF

Serena Bettis | Editor in Chief editor@collegian.com

Taylor Paumen | Content Managing Editor managingeditor@collegian.com

Falyn Sebastian | Digital & Design Managing Editor managingeditor@collegian.com

Adah McMillan | Copy Chief copy@collegian.com

Chloe Leline | Print Editor design@collegian.com

Trin Bonner | Illustration Editor design@collegian.com

Tri Duong | Photo Director photo@collegian.com

Lucy Morantz | Photo Director photo@collegian.com

Piper Russell | News Director news@collegian.com

Allie Seibel | News Director news@collegian.com

Ivy Secrest | L&C Director life@collegian.com

Bella Eckburg | Opinion Director letters@collegian.com

Karsyn Lane | Sports Director sports@collegian.com

Braidon Nourse | Sports Editor sports@collegian.com

Alex Hasenkamp | A&E Director entertainment@collegian.com

Parisa Farhadi | Social Media Coordinator socialmedia@collegian.com

Grace Bernhart | Social Media Editor socialmedia@collegian.com

in

PHOTO BY LOUISA PETRILLO THE COLLEGIAN

HANDS-ON LEARNING

Advertising students work with NoCo business startup

By Jordan Mahaffey @_mahaffeyjordan

Students in Colorado State University Assistant Professor Christina Minihan’s JTC 355 advertising class gained real-life experience this semester as they assisted business owner Logan Stagg with promoting his business startup STAGG Electric.

STAGG Electric does residential electrical work, including diagnostic work, hot tub installation, outlets and switches and light fixtures, according to its website. Stagg has two years of experience and training with the Independent Electrical Contractors Rocky Mountain association and a master electrician license. He recently started his own business.

“I’ve spent the majority of that time doing remodel electrical work here in Fort Collins,” Stagg said. “I’ve been doing residential electrical for eight years now and want to continue doing that, but it’ll just be my own operation, which means I can do better prices that way — lower than the bigger companies that I used to work for.”

Stagg met Minihan when he completed electrical work for her and was offered an opportunity for

one of Minihan’s classes to assist him in getting his business started.

“When she hired me, I was just doing work on the side,” Stagg said. “I didn’t really have an official business, so it was just like, ‘I have a day job, and then after I’m done with that job, I just go and do side jobs.’ But I mentioned to her that I’m interested in turning that side job into more of an official business rather than just doing work on the side just trying to make it my fulltime job. So she was really nice and offered to let students help me just create and grow my own side business and make it more official.”

Minihan got to work creating the service-learning project for her students to gain hands-on experience in advertising. Because STAGG Electric was so new, the students were able to be a part of the process from the beginning.

“I love to initiate service-learning projects for my students so they can have a real-world, hands-on learning experience,” Minihan said. “Any time an opportunity presents itself to help a local business thrive, I get excited because it creates a platform for my students to use their gifts to create and enhance a campaign to help businesses get off the ground or established businesses grow.

“It took some time, effort and trust on his part to work with a class size of 60 students. I was really proud of my students, as it was evident that they had put great effort, talent and heart into this project and, in the end, produced a wonderful advertising campaign.”

e class was divided into groups based on their interests, including copy editors, graphic design, photography, relationship builders and PR, advertising, social media, video and website design. Sophomore CSU student Sasha Sperry joined the web design group, which was responsible for creating a website using work the class created, including videos, photos and writing to make a cohesive website for the business.

“I will admit, we did struggle to find an exact format,” Sperry said. “We just wanted it to be perfect or at least really good. And eventually, what sort of brought it all together was picking one layout from the website that was just like free and generated and then adding photos, and then it all kind of came together after that.”

Another student, CSU senior Andrea Pennington, was in the relationship builders and PR advertising group. Pennington said the group was responsible for

designing flyers and business cards as well as posting information on Nextdoor and at businesses around Fort Collins.

“We had a lot of freedom in this assignment, which I thought was awesome because it was allowing us to have the creativity that we had originally and put that towards what we wanted to create,” Pennington said. “Everything, of course, was approved by Logan. As always, when working with a client, there are going to be things that needed to change. So we had to make a few tweaks based on what (Stagg) wanted because it is his business, but we were really able to take creative control and make a product we thought looked good and fit the demographic.”

Students like sophomore Madelyn King also got to practice their editing skills in the copy editors’ group. is group reviewed the writing group’s work and checked the captions and writing on the website to make sure there were no errors and that the work portrayed who Stagg is.

“I would like to be an editor, so getting real experience with making sure that, essentially, a product is ready to be released, I feel like I can take that away (from the project),” King said.

e class was structured in a flipped style, allowing students to take the lead on the project, and included students of all grade levels. e students enjoyed the structure of Minihan’s class and appreciated getting hands-on experience.

“I think it gave a really unique perspective on what classes could look like here at CSU,” Pennington said. “I’ve never had that in any of my classes, but I think it was so unique and something ... that I wish I would have had more of. ... We had control over ... how well we did in the class and like what we did and if we enjoyed it or not because we had full reign. (Stagg) was just there to supervise and guide as needed. And I think that that was so unique, I wish I could have experienced it more.”

Minihan is starting two new classes in the fall: RRM 355 and RRM 350, which will offer handson and service learning experiences. More information about the classes can be found on the website for “Cooking with Beer in Colorado,” a collaborative recipe book by Minihan, and more information about STAGG Electric can be found on their Instagram, website, YouTube and Facebook. Reach Jordan Mahaffey at news @collegian.com.

PHOTO COURTESY OF STAGG ELECTRIC

Learning Express Toys puts community first

e store takes pride in being a local business that offers help to anyone who walks through the door.

“We help pretty much anybody who comes in and ask us for help,” Choquette said. “We always try to find a way to help.”

”When you come into the store, you’re going to be greeted,” Choquette said. “ ere’s always someone who’s going to be able to help you if you don’t know what you’re getting.”

Moreover, Choquette shared that Learning Express Toys does not carry electronic games and toys but rather focuses on toys that require thinking and hold educational value.

“We try to find an educational angle as much as possible because we do focus on the kids getting some sort of educational value out of the toys,” Choquette said.

e store is dedicated to providing customers with toys that can aid in the development and growth of children’s minds.

e Nappie Project as well as local schools such as Bacon Elementary, Kruse Elementary, Riffenburgh Elementary, Zach Elementary and so, so much more,” said Paige Renner, marketing coordinator at Learning Express Toys.

Like every small business, Learning Express Toys faced challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic and had to adapt its operations to ensure its survival. Choquette shared that the store went virtual and created an online portal to sell products. ey also did phone sales and FaceTime shopping.

“We didn’t have a choice, so we tried everything we could think of,” Choquette said.

By Hania Nini @csucollegian

Located in Fort Collins, Learning Express Toys is a unique toy store in Colorado that focuses on providing education to its customers. e small minority, women and locally owned toy store store is also family-owned. Brinda Choquette, the owner of Learning Express Toys, shared her thoughts

on what makes her store stand out from the rest.

“We really curate our selection,” Choquette said. “If we put something out for sale, it’s been tried and tested. is means that all the toys in the store have been carefully selected and tested to ensure their quality.”

Another one of the store’s unique features is its commitment to staying local.

“Everything we make stays in town,” Choquette said.

Additionally, customers can expect a warm greeting and personalized assistance when they visit the store.

Furthermore, Learning Express Toys is actively involved in the community and supports local schools and nonprofit organizations. Choquette said the store donates prizes for school carnivals along with gift baskets. e store also partners with Toys for Tots, a program that provides toys to children who cannot afford them, which is their biggest partner on a yearly basis.

“We constantly give back to our community working with local nonprofits such as Toys for Tots and

Learning Express Toys aims to provide its customers with quality toys that have educational value. Choquette hopes that when customers walk into the store, they feel welcome and excited.

“My favorite thing is when a little kid comes in for the first time and they’re just excited,” Choquette said. “ ey will walk in the doors, and there’s always this beautiful look that makes my day.”

Reach Hania Nini at news @collegian.com.

CSU Outdoor Club offers students adventures in nature

By Emmalee Krieg @csucollegian

With spring and summer coming into full effect, it’s time to explore one of the most Coloradan things to do: going outside.

Colorado is known for its hikes, skiing and overall outdoor activities.

e Outdoor Club at Colorado State University utilizes Colorado’s natural beauty for outdoor experiences. Whether you’re already from the colorful state or a newcomer, there are plenty of events to get you outside.

Mollie Hendry, president of the Outdoor Club, was a transfer student when she first joined. Hendry found a place to be at CSU through the club and has been an officer ever since.

“ e outdoor club is focused on accessibility, community and enjoyment in the outdoors,” Hendry said. “Our biggest thing is getting people outside to have a good time, regardless of their skill level, comfort or experience in the outdoors.”

Even though the school calendar is coming to an end, there are still a good number of events the Outdoor

Club is holding, one being the annual Greyrock Mountain hike, in which the group carries on the tradition of the “weenie route” where they roast hot dogs at the conclusion of the hike.

don’t know how with all the gear and you don’t have people to go with, this is the place to come and meet tons of new people who are all very friendly and love the outdoors,” said Nash Sisk, events coordinator for the Outdoor Club.

A highlight of the club, of course, is meeting like-minded individuals. Nick Becker, the interclub relations officer, recalled his first trip with the club.

“ ere was only about six or seven of us, but if you spend more than four hours in a car with people you don’t know, you become pretty close pretty quickly,” Becker said.

With a good mix of short and long distances for trips, it’s easy for most to join, and participation is flexible for members. e Outdoor Club runs trips around Colorado and surrounding areas, with most locations being no more than an eight-hour drive from Fort Collins, according to the club’s website.

e landscape of Colorado, which allows the club to hike, camp and climb in the warmer seasons and ski and snowshoe in the winter, lets the club operate year-round.

“If you’ve ever wanted to get into the outdoors but you’ve felt that you

“Even if they choose not to participate in activities as frequently, people always come back, and they remember the Outdoor Club as being the start of a lot of new memories at the university,” Hendry said.

“We just really want to get people outside and excited about being outside and sharing experiences of going on adventures and doing stuff you’ve never done before with new people,” Becker said.

e Outdoor Club’s next activity is a weekend camping trip to the Dinosaur National Monument April 28-30. ey hold biweekly meetings 7:30 p.m. Wednesday in

the Behavioral Sciences Building to overview upcoming trips. While the club is composed of around 1,400 students in a year, trips are capped. “It’s helped me meet a lot of people with the same interests as me (and the) same kind of mindset about life and the world, so it’s a great place to meet people when you’re a new student,” Hendry said. “A lot of people end up meeting long-term friends as a part of the club.”

Reach Emmalee Krieg at news @collegian.com.

Learning Express Toys Owner Brinda Choquette and employee Paige Renner showcase the Rams Squishmallow in their store April 24. The special edition Squishmallow was designed by a former artist that worked for the store. Choquette and Renner introduced them to Colorado State University, and the toy is available at the CSU Bookstore.

PHOTO BY TRI DUONG THE COLLEGIAN

“My favorite thing is when a little kid comes in for the first time and they’re just excited. They will walk in the doors, and there’s always this beautiful look that makes my day.”

BRINDA CHOQUETTE LEARNING EXPRESS TOYS OWNER

PHOTO COURTESY OF CSU OUTDOOR CLUB

“We just really want to get people outside and excited about being outside and sharing experiences of going on adventures and doing stuff you’ve never done before with new people.”

NICK BECKER INTERCLUB RELATIONS OFFICER FOR THE CSU OUTDOOR CLUB

Decisions on the fly: Why fishing is so popular in Colorado

By Ivy Secrest @ivysecrest

In a landlocked, perpetually drought-ridden state, the Colorado fishing community has somehow managed to flourish. Colorado has become a destination fishing location, particularly for fly fishermen.

e state lays claim to over 320 miles of Gold Medal waters, a classification of fishing that entails a public fishing area that produces 60 pounds of trout per acre and at least 12 trout per acre that are at least 14 inches long.

ough this sounds intimidating, it actually tends to lead to a more social and accessible fishing experience. President of the Colorado State University Fly Fishing Club Jack Allen is working to capitalize on that community aspect and make the club space more welcoming to those who are new to fishing.

“Let’s learn something,” Allen said. “Let’s teach you how to fish. Let’s get you a rod if you don’t have one, ... improve the beginner fly fishing person’s experience.”

Allen is originally from Texas and has fished in Texas, Arkansas, Wyoming and Colorado.

“I would say Colorado is more inclusive,” Allen said. “I think because of the amount of water we have, there’s more opportunities for everybody.”

Although there is a limited amount of water in the state, it hasn’t

hurt the fishing culture. e lack of water in Colorado actually improves the quality of fishing in regards to both the quality of fish and the social aspect of the activity, Allen and interim club Secretary Joshua O’Bannon said.

Less harsh winters and smaller rivers packed with nutrients help the fish grow in size. e limited public space to fish in Colorado is also a contributing factor to the ease of the activity.

fishers in Colorado is that it attracts some who care more about the sport of fishing and making the best catch than preserving the ecosystem that allows for the activity.

“Fly fishermen should be on the cutting edge of conservation,” O’Bannon said. “We don’t want to spread invasive species — we want to protect our fish.”

Some simple steps people who fish can take to protect their favorite spots include cleaning off waders between locations to stop the spread of invasive species and respecting the nests and breeding grounds of the fish, O’Bannon said.

Like any popular activity, fishing can be anything from casual to competitive; however, with the fly fishing club, the goal is to foster community as opposed to competition.

“I hate making fishing a competition,” Allen said. “It’s not a competition sport. It’s not sport at all. It’s a passion. It’s a lifestyle for most people.”

not it’s been a good day of fishing.

“If it’s a pretty day, in a pretty place with good fishing, I think if you have two (of) those three things, it’s a good day,” O’Bannon said. “And Colorado tends to have a lot better weather and a lot better scenery than a lot of other places.”

For both Allen and O’Bannon, the friends they’ve made through the club have been a huge reason to stay with it. Finding people with that common interest adds to a passion they both already enjoy.

“I catch a lot more fish and a lot better fish when I’m not with the club — let’s be honest,” O’Bannon said. “But I’d much rather fish with

the club and not catching many fish. It’s a lot more fun.”

Fishing in Colorado has many advantages. It is a unique area to learn, it is an easy place to explore and it’s a great place to meet those who share that passion for fishing.

For Allen, fishing is an even playing field. No matter how nice the equipment, the fish will always be just as hard to catch.

“Fish don’t judge,” Allen said. “Fish don’t care how much money you have. ey don’t care what your social status is. ey’re just as hard to catch as the next person.”

Reach Ivy Secrest at life @collegian.com.

“ ere’s not enough water for everyone to have their own private section, so that kind of engenders more communication required by fishermen,” O’Bannon said.

Smaller rivers also mean less space to fish, forcing fishermen to chat a bit more than they would in other states. e downside of more fly

In the past, Allen said they had issues with club members getting competitive with each other on trips. is can make it difficult to teach club members who are new to fishing. e competition can be discouraging for newcomers.

“I think it’d be really important to make sure that everybody feels like, at any skill level, they can come fish with us and they won’t feel judged,” Allen said.

Catching the most fish doesn’t necessarily determine whether or

“Fish don’t judge. Fish don’t care how much money you have. They don’t care what your social status is. They’re just as hard to catch as the next person.”

JACK ALLEN CSU FLY FISHING CLUB

PHOTOS COURTESY OF JACK ALLEN

COLORADO-ISMS

How to enjoy Rocky Mountain National Park as a CSU Ram

are one popular species for visitors to seek out. eir mating season generally lasts mid-September to mid-October, where they then gather in large groups, especially in the Kawuneeche Valley. Remember to keep your distance from wildlife for both your safety and theirs.

Estes Park

With an elevation gain of about 970 feet, this 3.4-mile round trip hike is a moderately challenging option. If “moderate” isn’t in your vocabulary, Longs Peak is a fourteener within the park. e trailhead is south of Estes, under 1.5 hours from Fort Collins.

CSU’s Outdoor Club

What’s better bonding than experiencing the beautiful yet challenging obstacle courses of nature with your fellow Rams?

e CSU Outdoor Club can make that happen for you, especially in RMNP.

By Samy Gentle @samy_gentle_

While Fort Collins is beautiful in its own right, Colorado State University students have the additional privilege of approximately 415 square miles of scenic public land for recreation right in their own backyard: Rocky Mountain National Park. e nearest access point, Beaver Meadows Entrance Station near

Estes Park, Colorado, is fewer than 50 miles from Fort Collins, making it a perfect day trip option for CSU students.

Here are five ways to cross RMNP off your Colorado bucket list.

Wildlife viewing

Elk enthusiast? Bighorn buff? Moose maniac? RMNP is home to nearly 60 species of mammals and over 280 species of birds, according to the National Park Service. Elk

People may visit RMNP to get closer to nature, but if you want a little more civilization during your visit, Estes Park is nearby to satisfy your desire for a cute little mountain town. Estes is less than 4 miles from the Beaver Meadows Entrance Station, according to the National Park Service, making it a great base camp for your trip.

One of the town’s key attractions is the e Stanley Hotel, which, after Stephen King spent a night there, inspired him to write “ e Shining.” is one’s for you, English majors.

Hiking

From flat strolls to steep climbs, RMNP has tons of hiking options for all levels. One popular option near Estes is the Gem Lake Trail.

“I really like the hike to Lake Haiyaha,” said Nicole Rangel Gomez, co-social media manager of the CSU Outdoor Club. “Not only do you pass two other lakes on the way there, you get to see all the greenery, the towering peaks, and at the end, you can take a really rewarding and fun alpine lake dip with a gorgeous view.”

Scenic drives

While many people love beautiful mountain views, some prefer looking at them from the comfort of their car, and that’s OK. One of RMNP’s most popular routes is Trail Ridge Road, a 48-mile stretch between Estes Park and Grand Lake, according to the National Park Service. Approximately 11 of those 48 miles are above the tree line, allowing for vast tundra views as you go through the mountains.

Over the years, the Outdoor Club has taken many trips to the park, including hiking excursions near landmarks such as Sky Pond, Loch Vale and Emerald Lake, said Mollie Hendry, president of the Outdoor Club. e club encourages carpooling for their trips to increase the accessibility club members have to Colorado’s wilderness.

“We always go (to the park) a few times a year at least, snowshoeing and hiking most often,” Hendry said. “I believe we have some officers planning backpacking trips there next fall as well. Rocky Mountain National Park was one of the first major landmarks I saw when I moved to the state, and it’s the one I’m most drawn to.”

Reach Samy Gentle at life @collegian.com.

Trending: What CSU students are wearing this spring

By Rebekah Barry @rebekahb24708

As spring and summer are beginning to roll around the corner, different fashion trends are emerging around the Colorado State University campus. ese trends are documented on CSU Fitted, an Instagram account that showcases the best of fashion at CSU.

e best way to stay connected with fashion trends and ideas is through the CSU Fitted Instagram page. e page is also looking for any designs to feature on its page as it puts together a zine: a CSU magazine that will be available at the end of the year for purchase.

Here are the top five fashion trends spotted around CSU’s campus and documented by CSU Fitted.

1. Baggy pants

Whether it be solid colors or loud patterns, baggy pants have been common on the CSU Fitted fashion page and around campus. ey provide style with added comfort and are an easy way to express yourself. If denim is not your forte, white baggy pants with colored patterns are a great way to

flaunt your creativity. You can also DIY a pair of pants. Fabric markers allow for hand-drawn pictures and designs while reusing a pair of plain pants as a canvas.

2. Layers

Even with the sunnier weather, light layers add the perfect amount of comfort to any outfit. is also helps so that you are dressed for the evening, especially if you spend a day out and don’t plan on going back home to change. Some layering ideas include jackets, sweaters, hoodies and blazers. ese versatile pieces of clothing make it easy for all people to dress comfortably and still look stylish while attending classes. Even a large scarf will make a great addition to an outfit while being lightweight.

3. Comfortable but stylish tennis shoes

Tennis shoes and similar styles are a go-to during the warmer months. One of the most popular brands among college students is Nike, and other popular brands include Converse and Vans. e variation of colors and shoe style gives each person their own unique look. If you’re looking for another way to accent your shoes, you can also string

the shoelaces in different patterns. Some examples of styles include the ladder, diamond and double back.

4. Knee-high boots

If you want to opt for a different pair of shoes, knee-high boots are also a great addition to a skirt or a dress. ey can be paired with kneehigh socks or leg warmers if that is more your style. For more added detail, some people use chains, a variety of laces or some colorful beads on their shoelaces. Another creative way to decorate is to use colorful bottle/pop tabs that you can get from drinks; this is also a great way to recycle.

5. Headwear

From headbands to baseball caps, a great way to complete an outfit is to have a stylish headpiece. Some alternate ideas include bandanas, beanies, bucket hats and even cowboy hats. If you are more of a creative type, you can also add your own stitches into baseball caps or bucket hats. If you opt for a chic hairstyle, small braids accented with colorful clips are a fun option.

6. Other accessories

Adding a finishing touch to your outfit can mean whatever

you want it to. For many college students, basic accessories like headphones, earbuds, necklaces, chains and sunglasses become an everyday necessity. Additional ideas for final add-ons include temporary hair color, earrings, rings and buttons that accent your backpack or jacket.

CSU students along with other students throughout the country have revived thrift fashion, spanning decades of trends to build their own looks, and it is now being recognized on campus.

Reach Rebekah Barry at life @collegian.com.

Bear Lake at Rocky Mountain National Park Nov. 28, 2020.

PHOTO BY LUCY MORANTZ THE COLLEGIAN

PHOTO COURTESY OF @CSUFITTED

FoCo Museum of Discovery hosts Autism Resource Fair

By Ivy Secrest @ivysecrest

e Fort Collins Museum of Discovery hosted an Autism Resource Fair April 23. Free and accessible for all ages, the fair catered to the neurodivergent community.

“ e museum serves as a vital role as a community hub where people from many different backgrounds can gather, learn and connect,” said Laura Valdez, FCMoD co-executive director. “ e Autism Resource Fair offers many ways for neurodiverse community members and families to enjoy the museum while gathering resources and connecting with providers and supports.”

Autism spectrum disordertrained students from Colorado State University were available for free childcare so families and caregivers could learn about available resources.

Families were able to find resources and meet with other community members, such as Temple Grandin, a professor of animal science at CSU and a speaker on autism. Grandin is autistic and has written several books as an advocate.

Eleven-year-old Carter Ganguly, an attendee of the fair with autism, and his mom, Amy Ganguly, were able to attend Grandin’s sold-out speaking event, get a book signed by her and enjoy the booths and fun attractions at the museum.

Even for the kids, the event was a safe place to socialize and meet children similar to themselves.

“My favorite part (is) just meeting people that have autism like me,” Carter Ganguly said.

Grandin was not the only speaker at the fair. ere were also panel discussions on being a woman with autism as well as being a kid with autism.

At the panel for women with autism, three women with varying experiences shared how they were diagnosed and how autism has affected their lives, including their perceptions of themselves.

Daisy Montgomery, a learning and development manager of diversity, equity, inclusion and accessibility at Diversified, didn’t get diagnosed with autism until she was 30 years old.

“I was told I don’t look autistic,” Montgomery said. “And because I didn’t have an intellectual disability, people in my past didn’t think I could be autistic.”

All of the women on the panel were diagnosed later in life. For some people like Montgomery, this was because of the stigma around autism. For others, like panelist Emily Roberts, it was because of a financial barrier.

“When I confronted my mother, she admitted that she had been aware of the likelihood of my being autistic from the time I was 8 years old, but she couldn’t afford to get me diagnosed,” Roberts said.

Panelist Christie Nichols said she was in denial after her diagnosis because of the stigma surrounding autism. She didn’t think it fit her, but the more she researched, the more she realized the diagnosis was correct.

“Understanding now that I have the diagnosis is a lot,” Nichols said. “It just makes me understand why and the way that I am and also has made me understand that I do see the world in a different way. And most people don’t see it the way that I do, which is OK.”

e fair provided access to resources that many new parents of autistic children or newly diagnosed adults don’t always realize they have access to.

ese resources can be applied to behavior analysis to help people in whatever way is appropriate for them. ere are therapists and speaking aids available for help.

Carter Ganguly does applied behavior therapy with Key Autism Services and has seen a lot of progress since he started.

“It just helped me so much,” Carter Ganguly said. Needing accommodations is not uncommon. Panelists mentioned the medications and therapies that help them. Roberts is semiverbal and sometimes uses a talker to communicate.

“My talker allows me to speak really loudly and clearly in ways that my mouth can’t,” Roberts said.

For the women on the panel, it was important to note that autism affects every aspect of their lives, including how long they can stand stimulation, what noises impact their ability to listen, how their routines are structured and how they take work meetings.

“Autism affects every moment of my life from the moment I wake up to the moment I go to sleep,” Roberts said. “It’s why so many of us in the community are so adamant that we are not people with autism. We are autistic people. e autism is woven so deeply into the nature of who we are that it is inextricable from our personalities.”

e panel discussion was one of many that aimed to raise awareness and bring attention to how autism can look for different people. Because of the fair, Carter Ganguly said he felt more welcomed and wished there were more events like the Autism Resource Fair accessible to him.

Reach Ivy Secrest at life @collegian.com.

Emily Roberts, Daisy Montgomerey and Christie Nichols speak at the women with autism panel at the Autism Resource Fair at the Fort Collins Museum of Discovery April 23. PHOTO BY IVY SECREST THE COLLEGIAN

Trending: 5 phrases to help you grind in with the smoke sesh

By Taylor Paumen @taytaypau

Living in Colorado gives most of its population the stigma that they enjoy blazing it up from time to time. Living in Fort Collins, where there are more than a handful of dispensaries within miles of each other, sets the stoner standard to another level for the community. at being said, you might be having more interactions with stoners than you’re used to, or maybe you’re a new smoker who wants to become more involved in the cannabis culture. Well, look no further as we grind up trendy phrases you might come across through your elevated adventures.

1. “Puff, puff, pass, mothafucka”

S tarting out with a classic and the formalist structure smoking marijuana has, this phrase is pretty universal. If you’re hanging with the dudes or

girlies, smoking becomes a social event where sharing is caring. Take a puff or two and pass it along to your next buddy. If there’s one phrase that goes unsaid but is the common expectation, it’s puff, puff, pass. Your fellow stoners will appreciate you because no one likes a hogger.

2. “Homie, it’s loud in here”

Have you ever walked into a garage or basement or even gotten into someone’s car and it smells like a skunk died in there? e smoke may still be gliding through the air, or it’s just your nose that’s been unexpectedly waffed with the memory of the last smoke session, but in no relation to the beats of sound, it means the environment is loud. Take a good whiff

3. “Dude, this tokes heavy”

As we get deeper into Gen Z lingo, let’s break this intermediate-

level stoner phrase down. I’ll paint the scene: You’re sitting on the patio on a warm summer evening, and you’re lighting a joint with your bestie. After a few puffs back and forth — you know that puff, puff, pass we went over earlier — your friend looks over to you and says, “Dude, this tokes heavy.” In other words, your buddy is saying, “Dude, this joint is getting me so high.”

Toke means smoke, and heavy means a lot in this case. A casual “I know right” or “You can say that again” will keep you on par with your company.

4. “Wanna go hit that dank?”

If you’ve made it this far, then I’ll take it you indulge in the occasional smoke sesh. en I hope you can also agree with me when you hear, “Wanna smoke?” as it turns frowns upside down, and excitement fills the air before the smoke does.

e more, let’s say, advanced and sophisticated way a stoner could spice up their vocabulary would be to ask the homies, “Wanna go hit that dank?” Don’t read too much into it as your answer should always be “Yes.”

5.

“Don’t let it canoe!”

We’ll end this learning lesson with a phrase you never want to hear but need to know so it’s not you looking lost in the smoke circle. When you’re smoking on a joint or blunt, it’s easy to forget there’s a wrong and right way to do it.

If you light a joint and it’s not evenly burnt around the end, it can cause the burning of the flower to only burn on one side of the roll. is then creates that said “canoe” that could waste valuable flower if you’re not aware. Turning the joint as you smoke it to burn all around the joint will better your smoking experience and make you look like a pro. So don’t let it canoe!

Reach Taylor Paumen at cannabis@collegian.com.

GRAPHIC ILLUSTRATION BY MADELYN HENDRICKS THE COLLEGIAN

Enjoying Sour Diesel, fueling the high in every puff

Because this product is a sealed container, it is difficult to describe the smell of the wax. ough, I can certainly describe the taste, as it was strong and enjoyable. Since the cartridge contained cannabis extract distillate, the taste is very refined.

When smoking this cart, Sour Diesel tasted like a fruity cannabis cocktail with a kick. Tasting this strain through a highly refined cartridge gave me a new and favorable impression of Sour Diesel because it does not contain many of the impurities that would be in regular wax or flower.

is high sets in rapidly and without restraint. Immediately after smoking Sour Diesel on my pen’s lowest setting, I could feel the head high set in while my entire brain activated. e few times I hit the pen loaded with Bonanza’s cartridge happened to be in the morning with breakfast, and I would compare its effects to a psychedelic cup of coffee.

If you are both a coffee and weed lover like me, then this may sound like a great thing, and it is. But the case may also be made that this sounds like too much and could be a cause for concern, which is valid as well.

By Miles Buchan @buchanmiles

As the semester is drawing to a close and summer is fast approaching, thousands of Colorado State University students are experiencing burnout and need a vibe reorientation. In times such as these, I always return to my weed roots and smoke something that reminds me of simpler times.

So I went back over to Verts Neighborhood Dispensary to look for such a strain, and I came out with a 1-gram cartridge of the properly vetted strain Sour Diesel. is wood-tipped cartridge is made by Bonanza and is just one of many strain-specific cartridges from this company offered at Verts.

Carts made by Bonanza come in half- and full-gram varieties; however, Sour Diesel is only available in a 1-gram

cart at this time. Of course, the size of the cart affects the price, so the full-gram carts offered by Bonanza come out to $41, whereas the half-gram carts are available for $22.

As far as cannabinoids-testing, Bonanza’s Sour Diesel cartridges contain 82.20% THC and 1.70% CBD. While it’s not a lot, I was very excited to see some CBD in this cart because it is not incredibly common and may certainly affect your experience.

Ultimately, this makes for a great experience and a clean burn. ough, I will say to never underestimate a dab cart battery, as they are liable to surprise you with their power and efficacy. Sour Diesel is a sativa strain, and for whatever that’s worth, I must say the effects fell in line with what we’ve all come to expect from the lively strain.

When speaking with people who are prone to paranoia when smoking, I often find they prefer a low-testing strain with calming effects rather than stimulating ones. I would caution someone who might feel this way when smoking this particular product to prevent any negative experiences.

All around, Sour Diesel was a pleasant experience because I’m a person who loves to find that cutting-edge high. If you are not, then I want you to know that you can still enjoy this wax, but do so with caution. Try setting the pen dial to the lowest setting if it has one, and take short rips with some time in between. Rating: 9/10.

Reach Miles Buchan at cannabis @collegian.com.

“If you are both a coffee and weed lover like me, then this may sound like a great thing, and it is.”

GRAPHIC ILLUSTRATION BY AVA KERZIC THE COLLEGIAN

Jess Fitchett has taken on the challenge of being a single mother of two children while pursuing higher education. Despite the demands of parenting and studying, Fitchett is determined to succeed and create a better future for herself and her family.

At Colorado State University, Fitchett is a full-time student, juggling the responsibilities of attending classes, completing assignments and studying for exams. She is working toward a degree in communication studies with a minor in sociology. At home, Fitchett is a mother to 9-year-old Jackson and 6-year-old Alyanna.

Fitchett’s typical day starts at 6:30 a.m. when she gets Jackson and Alyanna up and ready for the day. Afterward, it’s off to school for both Fitchett and her children. She tries to connect with Jackson and Alyanna every morning during school drop-off. She does things such as asking a fun question or playing a funny song on the drive to school.

Next comes either homework or class for Fitchett, depending on the day. During

DAY IN THE LIFE: Balancing studies, family

breaks between classes, she gets as much done as she can before she has to begin double duty again.

After a day of class, she picks Jackson and Alyanna up from school, and they begin their nighttime routine. First on the list is a chore for each kid. Occasionally, Fitchett treats them to dinner in front of the TV, where they watch an episode of America’s Funniest Home Videos.

Bedtime consists of reading a book, brushing teeth and going to bed around 8 p.m. Afterward Fitchett musters all her energy to complete her homework and housework.

“I’ve had a really long, really hard life,” Fitchett said. “I’m kind of coming out of that season of my life and coming into one where I’m focusing on myself and my kids. When I started college, I thought of it as a stamp on a resume. Like, you have to have it or else your resume won’t get looked at. But since I’ve started, I’ve really learned a lot, and it’s opened my eyes up to so much more.”

1. Jess Fitchett studies in the Adult Learner and Veteran Services office April 21. Fitchett is often in the ALVS office during her breaks between classes to get homework done and to socialize.

2. A portrait of Fitchett April 21.

3. Alyanna and Jackson Fitchett’s chore charts sit on display on the fridge April 21. Chores are a vital part of the Fitchetts’ daily routine. “I pick them up from school, and they do a chore — that’s our routine,” said Jess Fitchett, Alyanna and Jackson’s mother. “We have to have a routine. It’s good for them because then they know what to expect.”

4. Fitchett makes coffee in the ALVS office April 21.

5. Jess Fitchett gives her children an after-school snack April 21. Fitchett is a single mother to Jackson and Alyanna Fitchett as well as a full-time student at CSU who works hard to achieve her goals. “I have worked my ass off hustling for scholarships and grants,” Fitchett said. “So I’m actually getting paid to go to school. All my expenses are covered as far as school goes, and then whatever is left over goes into my bank account.”

6. The Fitchett family holds hands April 21.

7. Fitchett reads a book to her children, Jackson and Alyanna April 21. The family regularly reads books together before Jackson and Alyanna head to bed.

8. Fitchett reads a textbook for a class April 21. Fitchett is a communication studies major with a minor in sociology and is waiting to figure out what she will do with her degree. “Instead of stressing about searching for what I’m going to do, I feel like it’ll come to me,” Fitchett said. “I just know it. I will find something that is interesting. That is my niche.”

9. Alyanna, Jess and Jackson Fitchett play “Squishmallows” April 21. Alyanna and Jackson created the game in which they each select a Squishmallow, give it one super power and have imaginary fights and meetings.

PHOTOSTORY BY AVERY COATES

Sale prices are for in-store shopping only. Does not include phone, curbside pick up orders, delivery, online or app orders.

IMPORTED WINES

WINES

Gen Z made ethical consumption trendy

GRAPHIC ILLUSTRATION BY TRIN BONNER THE COLLEGIAN

By Bella Eckburg @yaycolor

Editor’s Note: All opinion section content reflects the views of the individual author only and does not represent a stance taken by e Collegian or its editorial board.

Trends come in waves and in many forms — whether it’s a TikTok dance, a trending sound or a sudden interest in heavy patterns. Generation Z has been particularly influential in shaping trends over the last few years, and the pandemic pushing everyday interactions online only amplified that influence.

As for fashion, Gen Z has a chaotic style rooted in the ‘70s, ‘90s and early 2000s and connects through heavy patterns and bright colors.

An article in e Washington Post attempts to put words to the interesting — sometimes clashing — fashion choices of this generation, noting the importance of thrifting in post-pandemic theatrical style. I would encourage you to look into the fashion history at play, especially after nearly two years lived virtually.

Following trends can be costly and wasteful as fast fashion attempts to keep up with market interests,

and more poor-quality products are created to meet that demand and eventually end up in landfills, polluting the environment.

Interestingly, along with the typical trends, Gen Z has made both thrifting and ethical consumption a trend.

rifting is a huge hobby for Gen Z, and fashion historians are taking notice. To avoid waste, pollution and exploitation in the fast-fashion industry, a lot of Gen Z fashion focuses on upcycling or “thriftflipping” to broaden their style while still being mindful of trends.

According to the Pew Research Center, Gen Z is more likely to express anxiety and anger online about the state of climate change. On an app like TikTok, you’re bound to see content about fashion and climate change in the same scroll session depending on your algorithm, so it’s natural that the two eventually begin to merge.

If you have climate anxiety, you likely also have worries about your contribution to pollution, so you’re less likely to buy from a fast-fashion company like Shein.

As an industry, fashion is notoriously inaccessible to millions of people — but having thrifting

become the norm allows more people to participate in fashion and style exploration.

Of course, there is a lot more that is needed for the fashion industry to even remotely meet our inclusive expectations, but Gen Z is on board with shifting the narrative and pressuring the industry to change.

Gen Z is considered the first digitally-native generation — we grew up with the internet, from chatrooms and forums to the current chaotic content-filled internet we know today.

We have the power to completely reshape business practices by shifting our consumption habits to center the ethical treatment of workers, environmentally focused production and policy change to promote reducing climate change and protect workers.

Everyone wears clothes, and it’s clearly time for fashion to include those who have been ignored far too long. Do your part to educate yourself about the places you shop, especially their interest in the environment and the protection of their workers. When in doubt, shopping locally is a great bet.

Reach Bella Eckburg at letters @collegian.com.

Double-digit page papers.

Getting poked

Check engine lights.

Graduation ticket exchanges.

Soft blankets.

When people don’t understand the assignment. Sparkly boots.

Over-the-ear headphones are back, bettering music experiences

GRAPHIC ILLUSTRATION BY FALYN SEBASTIAN THE COLLEGIAN

By Callum Burke @burkec0621

Editor’s Note: All opinion section content reflects the views of the individual author only and does not represent a stance taken by e Collegian or its editorial board.

If you attend in-person classes at Colorado State University on a regular basis, witnessing students listening to music on their commutes to and from class is extremely common. Seeing that CSU is a fairly large campus containing nearly 4,800 acres, it makes perfect sense that people implement music into their daily lives to make the little moments more enjoyable.

e way each commuter chooses to listen to their music varies. ere are many different types of headphones and speakers to choose from that students use to enhance their audio experience. Although, if you are one of those people who listen to music on campus with a blaring speaker, please stop. It is very annoying.

Headphones seem to be the undisputed, most popular and polite way to listen to music in

public. With that said, a lot can go into the process of choosing the right pair of headphones to suit one’s individual needs. Color, connectivity, quality, in-ear, overear, brand, style, affordability and how loud you can get them without the noise leaking out to the person next to you are just a few things to consider when choosing the ideal headphones.

at said, nothing pales in comparison to which headphone style and brand is currently trending and seen most often among peers on campus and beyond.

Trends come and go. Remember skinny jeans? ey were once all the rave, and now it appears the baggier the denim, the better. With headphones, it is no different. In-ear headphones were once the go-to option, but now, over-ear headphones are taking the throne in terms of popularity.

Here at CSU especially, it seems over-the-ear headphones are in and here to stay for the foreseeable future. AirPods and other in-ear headphones are still a popular, strong choice, but over-the-ear headphones are appearing more and more frequently on the heads of students on campus. But why?

“Over-ear headphones offer flat-out better quality. You will hear less ambient sound, which is pleasant in noisy environments like public transportation or the classroom and office. Additionally, overthe-ear headphones don’t press on your ears or inner ears, making them more comfortable and easier to wear for longer periods of time.”

Is it no longer enjoying the feeling of in-ear headphones? Is it the quality? Or just plain trendiness and what everyone else is wearing? It seems to be a solid mixture of all the above.

For starters, over-ear headphones offer flat-out better quality. You will hear less ambient sound, which is pleasant in noisy environments like public transportation or the classroom and office. Additionally, over-the-ear headphones don’t press on your ears or inner ears, making them more comfortable and easier to wear for longer periods of time.

Most importantly and above all else, over-the-ear headphones are trending due to Apple’s newest AirPods Max headphone release, which offers quality sound and several different colors to show off and stand out on campus. e various color choices paired with quality audio technology leave little opportunity for competitors to keep up.

Apple has been the frontrunner for headphones ever since they got in the game, at least in terms of trendiness. Every time a new Apple product is released,

it immediately becomes the most popular in its field, and the headphone release has proven that fad once again.

In fact, one Statista study asked over 4,000 American adults about their personal headphones, and 34.4% said they use Apple products, followed by 15.3% who said they use Beats by Dre headphones, a company owned by Apple.

So it is quite clear why overthe-ear headphones — especially those made by Apple — are trending right now and the superior choice for listening to music. ey are better quality, more comfortable, bolder and just so happen to be Apple’s latest product release.

Who’s to tell when over-theear headphones will go out of style again? For now, why not fit in while enjoying a supreme music listening experience and pop them on before it’s too late? at is, if you really want to fit in with the trends.

Reach

Callum

Burke at letters @collegian.com.

Climbing is trending; are nonclimbers missing out?

By Jack Miller @millerjack02

Editor’s Note: All opinion section content reflects the views of the individual author only and does not represent a stance taken by e Collegian or its editorial board.

With the weather becoming nicer this spring, my friends and I are thrilled that we can take part in outdoor activities again. We’ve been hiking, swimming, playing volleyball and spike ball, but more than anything, my friends love to climb.

I’ve given climbing a few tries, but all I seemed to get out of it were sore forearms and blistered hands. When my friends started to get into it, I figured their interests would fade after a few weeks and we’d get back to doing the things I also enjoyed. I was dead wrong.

Every day my friends have been seeking out new places to climb. I join them for the social aspect, but I

usually just try a few times, fail and quit out of frustration.

Everyone else in the group seems to be consumed by climbing. I could tell that it’s not just a casual hobby for them; it’s a passion. is passion for climbing is not solely in my friend group.

Every day the climbing gym at the Colorado State University Student Recreation Center is packed with students. Almost everyone I know who’s started climbing in the past few months is now obsessed with it. ere’s clearly something I’m missing, and I want to figure out what it is.

Henry Marett, a sophomore at CSU, started going to e Rec’s climbing gym in January.

“I caught the climbing bug pretty quickly,” Marett said. “I remember I was stuck on this one climb for like an hour. I tried 100 different ways, and I failed every time. But when I completed it finally, it was the best feeling ever. I never get sick of that feeling.”

Now Marett is climbing four to five days a week and bought a membership at a local climbing gym.

“After my first few weeks going, it became really addicting,” Marett said. “Even now, I feel like I’m missing something on days I can’t go, and I get kind of restless.”

Marett’s love for climbing has only increased in the past few months, and he is excited about being able to climb outside.

“I started in the winter, and so I was only climbing indoors, which is still really fun, but I feel like outdoor is going to be way better,” Marett said.“I’ve gone outdoor climbing a few times, and it’s an amazing experience, especially when you see your improvement.”

Aidan Meade, a junior at CSU, began climbing during the second semester of his first year. Meade also became hooked immediately and joined the CSU Climbing team his sophomore year.

“At the start, it was the progression that got me hooked,” Meade said. “ e moment I saw myself improving, I was all in.”

Being a part of the climbing team, Meade has competed against a lot of other universities in the western region.

“ e competition element is fun because you get to encourage your friends and vice versa, but it’s not my favorite part,” Meade said. “Climbing is one of the only things that consistently gets me in a flow state. Before I found climbing, I would lift weights and do calisthenics, but it wouldn’t relieve much stress. When I’m climbing, that’s all I’m focusing on, and everything else seems to fade away.”

After my conversations with Marett and Meade, there’s one main takeaway. e main thing I should focus on is having patience and breaking that threshold where I can start seeing improvement. According to their experiences, that’s the moment when you won’t look back.

With summer almost here, my friends are going to be climbing almost every day, and it’s up to me whether I can join them and have fun or continue to be the one in the corner wanting to do something else.

I’m going to force myself to climb consistently for the next few weeks, and hopefully, I’ll catch the climbing bug that many of my friends have. Wish me luck.

Reach Jack Miller at letters @collegian.com.

Ben Scott tries hard on Diamond Dogs in Red Feather Lakes Sept. 30, 2022. Scott would get the first ascent of this new boulder the following weekend.

PHOTO BY MILO GLADSTEIN THE COLLEGIAN

“The competition element is fun because you get to encourage your friends and vice versa, but it’s not my favorite part. Climbing is one of the only things that consistently gets me in a flow state. Before I found climbing, I would lift weights and do calisthenics, but it wouldn’t relieve much stress. When I’m climbing, that’s all I’m focusing on, and everything else seems to fade away.”

AIDAN MEADE CSU CLIMBING TEAM MEMBER

Sneaker culture: More than just shoes

By Karsyn Lane @karsynlane1

Sneakers have come a long way from being just a functional piece of footwear to becoming an integral part of fashion and popular culture. Today sneakers are not only worn for athletic performance but also as a statement of personal style.

Sneaker culture has taken the world by storm, and it is not just limited to athletes and sneakerheads. From celebrities to fashion icons, everyone seems to be obsessed with sneakers. In this day and age, sneakers are not just shoes; they are a reflection of one’s personality, taste and attitude toward life.

Sneaker culture refers to the enthusiasm, passion and fashion that surrounds the buying, collecting and trading of sneakers, especially rare and limited-edition models. At Colorado State University, sneaker culture can often be seen through athletes, student enthusiasts and across social media.

As for CSU Athletics, we often get a sneak peek at Rams’ sneaker taste through pre-game fit pics. Two teams that set this trend are the men’s and women’s basketball teams. During the 2022-23 season, we got insight into the athletes’ personal pregame style

with an array of sneakers. From Nike Air Jordans to Adidas Superstars, these Ram styles have influenced the sneaker culture on and off the court.

enthusiasts and students looking to stay up-to-date on the latest trends by offering a glimpse into the vibrant and diverse style.

Nicole Rangel Gomez, the current manager of the account, said the purpose is to “try to showcase and represent all the different styles and personalities of CSU students.” Although sneaker culture is not the account’s main focus, providing a safe and trendy platform for all styles is.

“I know that most fashion pages focus on style as it’s seen on TV or in magazines or in New York, but there are so many other styles out there,” Gomez said. “I want to showcase those styles to make everyone feel included in an industry that would usually brush their style off.”

Sneaker culture is contagious at CSU. For example, @aggie.style_ is an Instagram account dedicated to showcasing sneaker trends and unique styles across the student body. e account serves as a source of inspiration for sneaker

Regardless of where you go or look, the sneaker culture is undoubtedly spreading like wildfire, and CSU is no exception. From athletes to student enthusiasts, the sneaker trend is alive and thriving. It’s seen in action every day, and it’s pushing the boundaries of fashion one step further. As we move forward, we can only expect the sneaker culture to grow, evolve and influence the world of fashion in new and exciting ways.

Reach Karsyn Lane at sports @collegian.com.

“I know that most fashion pages focus on style as it’s seen on TV or in magazines or in New York, but there are so many other styles out there.”

NICOLE RANGEL GOMEZ @AGGIE.STYLE_ INSTAGRAM MANAGER

PHOTO ILLUSTRATION BY KARSYN LANE THE COLLEGIAN

Hornbuckle twins’ softball connection comes from their roots

By Emma Askren @emma_askren

Twin sisters Sydney and Katelyn Hornbuckle, both on the Colorado State University softball team, have been playing softball their entire lives. e two grew up together, played softball in high school together and ultimately chose to attend CSU together.

“We probably started playing together when we were 6 (years old),” Sydney Hornbuckle said. “We have an older sister. She played at the University of Kansas, and she just actually graduated. She was a second baseman, so we kind of followed in her footsteps.”

Originally, the pitcher-catcher combination did not start as perfect as it has ended up. Sydney Hornbuckle knew she wanted to be a pitcher, and she needed someone to catch for her, so the position was automatically designated to her sister, Katelyn Hornbuckle.

Being a pitcher-catcher combo as twins definitely has its

advantages. Naturally, any pitchercatcher duo has to be close, but being twins makes the “getting-toknow-you” part of playing together that much easier.

“It was almost like she was reading my mind,” Sydney Hornbuckle said. “ ere’s always like the joke that twins can read each other’s minds, but it’s almost exactly that all the time.” is past weekend Colorado State played against Iowa State University, and the twins were able to get their first career start pitching and catching to each other in college play. Despite the two wins and two losses, it was a monumental weekend for the siblings.

“It was a lot of fun,” Sydney Hornbuckle said. “I know (Katelyn) was really ecstatic and super pumped to be out there. She’s always getting told that her attitude and effort is always there, and so the fact that she was able to get the opportunity (to play) was great. It was just like being in high school again.”

Whether it’s the twin telepathy

or the amount of time spent together, there’s definitely a connection between Sydney and Katelyn.

“We actually shared a room up until our junior year of high school until our sister moved out, and then in college we shared our freshman dorm together as well,” Sydney Hornbuckle said.

CSU provided the perfect opportunity for the sisters to play together.

“Softball-wise, I wanted to be a pitcher, first-baseman and hitter, and they were one of the few schools who really pushed that on their pitchers,” Sydney Hornbuckle said. “On the academic side, I’m majoring in civil engineering, and not a lot of schools let you do that.

“I actually committed (to CSU) first, but Kate always says she wanted to go here first. We never thought we would go to the same school together, but it wasn’t until after our junior year in high school that we thought we actually would want to play together.”

e Hornbuckles are both

juniors, and with only a few games left in the 2022-23 season until their senior season, there’s a lot to look forward to.

“Obviously we want to make it to the tournament, and we’re still in it, but it’s coming down

to these last couple weekends,” Sydney Hornbuckle said. “Next year we’re looking to work hard over the summer and develop our skills more.”

Reach Emma Askren at sports @collegian.com.

Sydney Hornbuckle (5) throws a pitch against San Diego State University at Ram Field March 19. Colorado State University secured a 3-2 win over the Aztecs. PHOTO BY SERENA BETTIS THE COLLEGIAN

Craft breweries are a defining FoCo characteristic

Breweries are not just places to drink beer; they are also an integral part of the city’s identity, Nook said.

“When I opened Black Bottle Brewery, we were the eighth craft brewery in Fort Collins, and people already thought it was too much,” Nook said. “ ere are over 20 craft breweries now.”

Lexie Skeen, the manager of Rally King Brewing, shared some thoughts on the matter.

“Our town is just built off the brewing community,” Skeen said. “We are not really a food town. We are a drinking town.”

Skeen explained that one of the biggest challenges for breweries is finding ways to stand out from the competition.

said. “We also try to cultivate a community here to be more like a neighborhood brewery.”

Something that sets Black Bottle Brewery apart from the steady increase of breweries in Fort Collins is its unique cereal beer.

“ e COVID shutdown was definitely a challenge because we do 95% of our sales out of the taproom, so without that, it makes a big difference,” Skeen said.

Nook added that community support made their journey through the pandemic a bit easier to handle.

Despite the challenges, breweries in Fort Collins have continued to engage with and give back to the community through events and charity fundraisers.

“We do a lot of different events — we do charity events occasionally,” Skeen said.

Black Bottle Brewery is organizing a blood drive soon where people get a free beer for when they donate their blood.

By Hania Nini @csucollegian

Fort Collins has become a hub for craft breweries. With over 20 breweries, the city has earned the nickname the “Brewmuda Triangle.” e city’s breweries are very popular among travelers and tourists, not just the locals.

Sean Nook, the owner of Black Bottle Brewery, explained the importance of the craft beer industry to Fort Collins’ tradition.

“I think the craft beer industry is huge for our culture now,” Nook said. “ e city’s breweries have evolved over the years, and the craft beer scene has become a defining characteristic of Fort Collins.”

“It’s rare for a brewery to differentiate itself from other breweries in Fort Collins,” Skeen said. “To set themselves apart, Rally King Brewing releases a new small batch kettle sour every Friday.”

Skeen highlighted the importance of community within the brewery to create a more personalized experience for customers, something larger breweries may not achieve.

“ at is something that other places don’t do,” Skeen

“We invented the cereal beers, which are called breakfast beers, and to be creative, we have done all Michigan ingredients before,” Nook said.

However, the COVID-19 pandemic also presented significant challenges to local breweries.

“COVID slowed down charity, but we still have upcoming projects,” Nook said. “Because even as a small business, we can make an impact.”

Nook said he believes in the power of small businesses and their impact.

“Let’s have small breweries all over Fort Collins and Colorado, and let’s keep it local,” Nook said.

Reach Hania Nini at entertainment@collegian.com.

The ultimate guide to the Colorado granola look

back to environmental initiatives. Patagonia has plenty of clothing options paired with an excellent warranty program.

Flannels, flannels, more flannels

BY TRIN BONNER THE COLLEGIAN

By Christian Arndt @csucollegian

Colorado is a staple state of sustainability, outdoor activity and environmental consciousness. Considering this, plenty of Colorado residents show their love of the outdoors and sustainability through their clothing. Here is a comprehensive guide to dressing

and embracing your inner granola style.

Patagonia

Patagonia has long been attributed as one of, if not the most, environmentally conscious brands to produce accessories and clothing. Plenty of brands present themselves as being eco-friendly, but Patagonia prides itself on giving

Having a large selection of nice durable flannels is a necessity for any Colorado resident. It’s the perfect in-between layer for summer and fall. With many different patterns and colors, it’s no wonder they are so popular in Colorado. e prices vary on flannels, which is even better for someone on a budget or someone who wants to invest in a nice flannel.

Having that trusty beanie on hand is a must. Colorado is known for its cool and oftentimes unpredictable weather. Having a cozy beanie to keep your head warm after skiing, take a breezy fall hike or even just as a fashion statement is peak Coloradan.

Thrifted clothes

Is new clothing too expensive?

Give thrifting a shot. Not only can you find numerous items and

accessories, but you can also find big-name brands for a fraction of the price. It’s very environmentally friendly and gives used clothes another purpose than just becoming trash. Plus, having that worn-in feeling in clothing is always nice.

Sandals

Closed-toed shoes are convenient to many people and appear to be ever so present in our community. Chaco, Birkenstock and Teva are all popular choices among students at Colorado State University. With plenty of versatile looks, colors and styles, it may be time for you to look into purchasing a pair for this summer.

Water bottle

Covering a Hydro Flask and other refillable water bottles in stickers is a fairly common and unique way to personalize a bottle, as it is a big teller of a person’s character, interests and beliefs. Doing so is a fun way to show what you enjoy and appreciate through sticker art all while staying hydrated.

REI

e REI brand is known for affordability while not sacrificing quality. e stores are dotted across Colorado and provide a variety of hiking, lounging and outdoor activity brands. However, the true gem of REI is its individual products. ey have plenty of comfy and simple hoodies, sweatpants, hats, hiking shorts and more. Whatever you are looking for, REI probably sells it. Make sure to also stop by during their occasional discount sales; there are plenty of fun and useful things to purchase and wear.

Earth tones

Honestly, anything that is earth tone will fit the Colorado wardrobe perfectly. ink forest greens, sandy yellows and muted browns. Anything natural feeling and looking will be a great addition to your closet. ere it is. With summer just around the corner, there is no better time to treat yourself to some new articles of clothing and accessories. Reach Christian Arndt at entertainment@collegian.com.

GRAPHIC ILLUSTRATION

A pint glass of Cerealiously Golden Grahams draft at Black Bottle Brewery April 24. The stout came out on top in the March Madness draft competition. PHOTO BY TRI DUONG THE COLLEGIAN

“Let’s have small breweries all over Fort Collins and Colorado, and let’s keep it local.”

SEAN NOOK OWNER OF BLACK BOTTLE BREWERY

Repeat Boutique: Affordable, sustainable shopping

By Rebekah Barry @rebekahb24708

Right off the corner of College Avenue and East Lake Street is a small old house. From the outside, it doesn’t look like much, but on the inside, it’s full of stories and history.

According to their Facebook page, Repeat Boutique opened in 1987 when Laura Green bought it from a friend. Laura Green’s daughter, Poetry Green, has been in the family business and works there now as the lead sales associate.

e business doesn’t advertise much but has been working on catering to the younger generation.

Poetry Green detailed some of the increases in business after the COVID-19 pandemic.

“It’s like a treasure hunt — you never know what you could find,” Green said. “( e college students) always make me smile with how excited they get.”

e business gets most of its clothing and other items from consignments where the employees pick through the things they think they can sell, aiming to get rid of the items within a 90-day period. Some consigners even bring in brand-new pieces with tags. Green feels it is a wonderful business that reduces fast fashion, recycles and gives items a new life.

“We had a mid- to late-1800s wedding dress at some point,” Green said. “ is house too has a whole history, and it’s been nice to be in a historical house — it’s seen so much. We’ve tried so hard (to research it).

ere’s just nothing about it. ere

have only been three or four pictures we’ve been able to find of it.”

e original building was established in 1825, and the original owner was a woman — a rarity in and of itself. e First National Bank owner cared for it at one point, though the exact date is unknown. At the time, it was a sorority house in the 1950s for Colorado State University, then a fraternity house for CSU in the 1990s. e house was left in disrepair afterward before Repeat Boutique relocated.

After the business relocated to its current location in 2006, it did its best to keep the house together with its original content.

“I believe this flooring is all original, and I believe most of the tiling and the wood is all original,” Green said. “We of course had to update it a fair amount for fire codes and everything. We rent out the upstairs units to other little businesses.”

e businesses currently residing upstairs in Repeat Boutique are a variety of therapists and an esthetician.

“I enjoy really getting to know customers because I know so many of them by their first names at this point,” Green said. “(I enjoy watching others) taking a simple article of clothing and seeing people come back in with their own fashion style and how they kind of turn it into their own creativity.”

After COVID-19 hit, the business suffered financially. After they reopened, their prices had to be readjusted.

“We have raised our prices a little bit, but it’s still very reasonable, which

I think helps a lot especially for people our age and younger to still be able to shop but be on a budget as well,” Green said. “Everything here, especially clothing, ranges from $2 to $25 for the most part. It’s helped me — being a broke 20-somethingyear-old — being able to have

clothes that last forever and still be able to contribute to the earth and recycle.”

Green summarized why college students should visit the boutique at least once.

“It’s definitely worth stopping in because it’s super unique, and you

can even start your own fashion trends,” Green said. “You can even decorate your home or your space. Being able to shop in an old house is really exciting. ere’s something for everybody.”

Reach Rebekah Barry at entertainment@collegian.com.

Interior of Repeat Boutique on the corner of South College Avenue and East Lake Street in Fort Collins April 20. Repeat Boutique is a consignment packed full of clothing and various items.

PHOTO BY REUEL INDURKAR THE COLLEGIAN

Sudoku

OVERHEARD AROUND CAMPUS

“Not today, Grandma. Not today.”

“Now I have a pickle ick.”

WEEKLY HOROSCOPE

By Abby Flores

TODAY’S BIRTHDAY (04/27/23)

ARIES (MARCH 21 - APRIL 19)

You have been thinking about the past and how that affects who you are today. We cannot change what was then, but we do have the ability to change our realities. As you continue on your journey of being a trailblazer, you will soon realize people want to follow your footsteps.

TAURUS (APRIL 20 - MAY 20)

Happy birthday, Taurus! You

have been craving adventure and a little bit of chaos lately after a period of stability you forced upon yourself. Having a routine is never a bad thing, but you should have fun every once in a while. You will broaden your horizons through travel and friendships this year.

GEMINI (MAY 21 - JUNE 20)

You have been learning a lot about how to put yourself first. People tend to be drawn to your sunshine energy, so they may automatically trust you to be the listener. As much as we may want to help, sometimes we can’t, and that’s OK. It is important to establish boundaries within all of our relationships.

CANCER (JUNE 21 - JULY 22)

Austrian psychologist Sigmund Freud once said, “The interpretation of dreams is the royal road to a knowledge of the unconscious activities of the mind.” Your dreams may tell you a lot about the future at this time, Cancer. Look out for repeated signs and symbols that will bring you closer to your true self.

LEO (JULY 23 - AUG. 22)

You are a fire sign but have lately been finding yourself roaming around water. Whether you walk by a lake, sit by a pool or hang out near a pond, you are constantly finding new revelations and learning new things about your reality. As humans, we are mostly made of water, and that is why we can easily manifest our desires.

VIRGO (AUG. 23 - SEPT. 22)

You sometimes worry about the future, but I promise that it’s better to focus on the present and make the most of each moment. Everything will work out because you have been putting effort toward each day, and that has been contributing to stronger tomorrows.

LIBRA (SEPT. 23 - OCT. 22)

As a spiritual sign, you must ask yourself what it is you want most in life, Libra. If it’s a page turn or new beginning, you can have it. Everything in your world is a reflection of yourself, so you can truly manifest

“Pisces energy is telling you to use ChatGPT.”

“The one good thing my father gave me was Canadian blood.”

Have you overheard something funny on campus? Put your eavesdropping to good use. Tweet us @CSUCollegian and your submissions could be featured in our next paper!

anything by shaping your thoughts. The time is now.

SCORPIO (OCT. 23 - NOV. 21)

Whenever you find yourself second-guessing your talents or hobbies, stop yourself for a second and take deep breaths, Scorpio. Remember you are on your own frequency, and you are creating the things you do for a reason. You are transforming people’s lives even if you are unaware of it.

SAGITTARIUS (NOV. 22 - DEC. 21) You are finally approaching the end of something you have been working toward. Whether it is graduating, completing something difficult or even just going through a thought process, you are ready for the next adventure to begin. Take the next couple days to breathe in freedom, and expect something surprising and beautiful to come your way.

CAPRICORN (DEC. 22JAN. 19) The chakra you are associated with is the root chakra. This means you need to

feel stable and grounded within your life to feel energetically protected. Mercury retrograde may cause you to feel overwhelmed, so I recommend spending time around trees and working on your fitness.

AQUARIUS (JAN. 20 - FEB. 18) You are a gust of wind, Aquarius. Unpredictable, you go with the flow of whatever the universe brings you. People from all over the place may just walk up to you and strike up a conversation. You will have luck in future journeys you take because of this.

PISCES (FEB. 19 - MARCH 20) You are an idealist and genuinely care about trust. You may have a close friend or group that brings you a sense of family and home. These sorts of connections are blessed, and although there are times you need to hermit, you have found a safe haven for when you need a pick-meup. You are so loved, Pisces.