Thursday, October 13, 2022 - Vol. 132, No. 9

Lory Student Center,

STAFF

FORT COLLINS FOCUS

TOP STORIESTOP STORIES

NEWS: CSU Homecoming schedule 2022 PAGE 4

L&C: Point of pride: Why do we celebrate homecoming at CSU? PAGE 7

CANNABIS: Seriously: You can officially smoke CSU in cannabis form PAGE 12

OPINION: Stella: 4 ways to tailor the best tailgate experience PAGE 18

SPORTS: CSU’s most outstanding coaches from the last 130 years PAGE 24

A&E: ‘Keeping the tradition alive’: The Alumni Marching Band legacy PAGE 27

PHOTO: Flashback to 1973 PAGES 20 & 21

FOCO EVENTSFOCO EVENTS

All Hands On Deck art show at Odell Brewing Company Noon to 8 p.m. Oct. 13-15

Thriller Flash Mob: Open practice at Impulse Dance & Fitness

1:30 p.m. Oct. 15

Flash mob at Old Town Square 3 p.m. Oct. 15

The Bristlecone Project at Wolverine Farm Publick House 5:30-8 p.m. Oct. 15

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.

just seems like

always

better

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.

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.

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

Rachel Baschnagel | Night Editor copy@collegian.com

Lauren Pallemaerts | Copy Chief copy@collegian.com

Chloe Leline | Print Editor design@collegian.com

just here

EDITORIAL STAFF

Trin Bonner | Illustration Editor design@collegian.com

Tri Duong | Photo Director photo@collegian.com

Lucy Morantz | Photo Director photo@collegian.com

Piper Russell | News Editor news@collegian.com

Allie Seibel | News Editor news@collegian.com

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

have fun and support

Paul Brull | Cannabis Director cannabis@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

Alex Wilson | Social Media Coordinator socialmedia@collegian.com

James Diana, Alex Barth and Nick Barth play at a house show in Fort Collins to raise money to help vault the owner Jenna Morrow’s roof Oct. 9.

PHOTO BY GARRETT MOGEL THE COLLEGIAN

Homecoming & Family Weekend Kickoff to bring Rams together

By Allie Seibel @allie_seibel_

The new Homecoming & Family Weekend Kickoff will bring Colorado State University alumni, students and families together to celebrate Ram pride at Canvas Stadium from 4-6 p.m. Oct. 13.

The event will feature a happy hour cash bar on the New Belgium Porch, food trucks and photos on the football field with CAM the Ram.

“It’s something new that we’re launching,”said Amy Jo Miller,director of marketing and communications for the CSU Alumni Association. “The intention behind it was to give the campus community an easy way to engage and be a part of Homecoming before things really got into the thick of things into the weekend.”

Homecoming weekend, which is coming back into full swing after two years of cancellations and modifications due to COVID-19, will have new emphasis on community engagement, Miller said.

“Homecoming is just a chance to welcome everyone home and to bring

generations of Rams back together,” Miller said. “It’s really a chance to showcase all of CSU’s growth but at the same time the tradition and the roots and the history that always stays the same.”

like the football game, the lighting of the A, bonfires and notable alumni acknowledgment have been added to the annual lineup of events.

Miller and the Alumni Association are hoping the Homecoming & Family Weekend Kickoff will become one of the mainstay events the community will have to look forward to every year.

AMY JO MILLER CSU ALUMNI ASSOCIATION DIRECTOR OF MARKETING AND COMMUNICATIONS

CSU’s first Homecoming took place in 1914, dubbed an “alumni reunion” by then-President Charles A. Lory. Since then, certain traditions

“We’re really excited about the opportunity to bring together Rams from all walks of life and be able to reengage the Ram Pride and the green and gold community that comes with everything that homecoming is about,” Miller said. “I think this event specifically is just a really easy, low-key way (to) kick things off; it’s going to have that quintessential CSU downhome feeling.”

Canvas Stadium, which was constructed in 2017 and houses the Iris & Michael Smith Alumni Center and the Old Main bell, has become a centerpiece for alumni activities. Miller hopes the kickoff event will allow students and families to engage with Canvas Stadium in a more up-close-and-personal way.

“I think that unless you’re directly involved with athletics, this kind of access isn’t always available,” Miller said. “We’re excited to offer that opportunity for people to come out and get down on the field.”

Ultimately, Miller and the Alumni Association hope the Homecoming & Family Weekend Kickoff will continue to enhance campus traditions

and unite generations of both former and current Rams and their families.

“People will come back after two decades, and there will be a lot that’s changed, but there’s also so much that stays the same,” Miller said. “I think that’s what’s really special about this place.”

Reach Allie Seibel at news@ collegian.com.

“People will come back after two decades, and there will be a lot that’s changed, but there’s also so much that stays the same. I think that’s what’s really special about this place.”

The Colorado State University Marching Band marches to Canvas Stadium for the Homecoming football game against San Jose State University Oct. 9, 2021. PHOTO BY GARRETT MOGEL THE COLLEGIAN

CSU Homecoming schedule 2022

By Sam Hutton @csucollegian

Colorado State University is hosting its annual Homecoming & Family Weekend beginning Oct. 13. The weekend encompasses activities for members of the CSU and Fort Collins communities and visitors.

Below is a comprehensive schedule of CSU events planned for the weekend.

Homecoming & Family Weekend Kickoff

Homecoming & Family Weekend will begin with a kickoff event from 4-6 p.m. Oct. 13 at the New Belgium Porch in Canvas Stadium and will feature performances highlighting past CSU achievements and memories. The event will include food trucks, photo opportunities and a bar.

Distinguished Alumni Awards

Continuing Oct. 13 at the Lory Student Center Theatre will be a celebration of distinguished alumni put on by the Colorado State University Alumni Association from 5-9 p.m. The event brings attention, recognition and appreciation to alumni who have excelled professionally, upheld the values of CSU and contributed to the CSU community.

Parent and Family Programs interest session: Finding your Home: Housing Options for Next Year and Beyond

A Parent and Family Programs panel presented by CSU’s OffCampus Life and Housing & Dining Services will educate parents of current CSU students on the process of securing future housing. The panel will be from 9-10 a.m. Oct. 14 in room 308 of the Lory Student Center.

PFP interest session: Experience an Education Abroad — 2022

During this panel, students and staff from CSU’s Education Abroad office will present to CSU students and parents regarding study abroad programs offered by CSU. The students and staff will discuss resources for financial aid and other opportunities for students looking to travel and study abroad. The panel will be from 10-11 a.m. Oct. 14 in room 304 of the LSC.

PFP interest session: Rams on Wheels

A brand new event this year, OffCampus Life’s Rams on Wheels

aims to provide students, parents and families with an opportunity to explore off-campus housing options and familiarize themselves with the Fort Collins community via community bus tours from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Oct. 14. The hop-on, hop-off tours begin at the LSC Transit Center and Moby Arena.

50 Year Club Luncheon

Everyone is invited to the 88th anniversary celebration of the 50 Year Club of CSU alumni from noon to 3 p.m. Oct. 14. The 1972 graduating class will be inducted into the club, and 50 Year Club Award recipients will be recognized. The event will take place in the Hilton Fort Collins ballrooms.

PFP interest session: Get (Re)Engaged! Opportunities for Campus Involvement

Student Leadership, Involvement and Community Engagement will be holding an informational session from 1-2 p.m. Oct. 14 regarding opportunities for CSU students to engage in university programs and get involved on campus. The session will be in room 306 of the LSC.

Rams Against Hunger Pantry — Open House

CSU community members are encouraged to join Rams Against Hunger, which works to address food insecurity at CSU and provides programs and services to students and staff in need, on an open-house tour of the Rams Against Hunger Food Pantry from 1-3 p.m. Oct. 14. The food pantry is in room 115 of the General Services Building, and the entrance to the room is exterior, next to the building’s main doors on the east side.

PFP interest session: Getting Your Student ‘Ram Ready’ for Their Career

CSU families are invited to a panel and informational session concerning the career resources available through the CSU Career Center. Students and staff from the CSU Career Center will provide tips and information on resources available to help students prepare for life after graduation. The meeting will be from 2-2:45 p.m. Oct. 14 in room 304 of the LSC.

Festival on The Oval

This year’s edition of the Festival on The Oval will feature food trucks, activities, live music and a beer garden from 3-6 p.m. Oct. 14. The event will also allow the public to engage with local businesses and vendors on The Oval.

LaSasso Award Reception

Recipients of the Larry LaSasso Spirit Award, which recognizes individuals who demonstrate outstanding commitment and support for CSU athletics, will be honored from 4-5 p.m. Oct. 14 in the Iris & Michael Smith Alumni Center.

CSU Alumni Association Member BBQ

An exclusive BBQ for CSU Alumni Association members and their guests will be held west of The Lagoon on CSU’s campus from 5:308 p.m. Oct. 14. A mini beer garden will be present, but the BBQ meal option is now sold out of meals.

Friday Night Lights

A staple of Homecoming & Family Weekend, Friday Night Lights will feature traditions of the bonfire, pep rally, fireworks and the

lighting of the A from 6-8:30 p.m. Oct. 14. All members of the public are invited to attend the event on the LSC West Lawn.

ASCSU Alumni Reunion

Current and former members of the Associated Students of Colorado State University are invited to attend a reunion from 6-9 p.m. Oct. 14 featuring appetizers and recognition of the Denke Service Award recipient. The event will be in Ballroom D of the LSC.

Black Excellence Alumni Dinner

The Black Excellence Alumni Dinner is a reunion, dinner and fundraising effort for the Black/ African American Cultural Center. It’s hosted by the Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Inc. Omicron Tau Alumni Association and supported by B/AACC, the CSU Alumni Association and the Office of Development. Tickets are $75 per plate, and semiformal attire is expected. The event will be from 6-9 p.m. Oct. 14 in The Lincoln Center’s Canyon West Ballroom.

Alumni Marching Band Weekend

Alumni of the CSU Marching Band will have the all-day opportunity Oct. 15 during the CSU versus Utah State University football game at Canvas Stadium to march, play in the stands, perform on the field with the CSU Marching Band and enjoy tailgating efforts. Participants and alumni guests must register beforehand.

Homecoming Bookstore

Savings Event Alumni Association members

and Canvas Rams+ credit card holders will get 15% off all CSU Bookstore purchases all day Oct. 15 in the LSC Bookstore and the outdoor pop-up store, and 5% of each purchase will be allocated to the Alumni Association.

Homecoming 5K Race

On Oct. 15, this year’s running of the Homecoming 5K, which is open to the public, will start at 8 a.m. on The Oval and run throughout campus.

Morning Gathering with Alumni

A networking event with breakfast appetizers, which will be hosted by the B/AACC and the CSU Alumni Association, will be from 10 a.m. to noon Oct. 15 in seminar rooms 1 & 2 of the Iris & Michael Smith Alumni Center. Attendees are encouraged to wear Rams or Green and Gold gear.

Engineering Our Sustainable Future

Hosted by the Walter Scott Jr. College of Engineering, the Engineering Our Sustainable Future tailgate will allow visitors to engage with exhibits about and the college’s work regarding sustainable energy systems, 3D printing, algae, environmental stewardship and more. The tailgate will be from 1-4 p.m. Oct. 15 on the lawn west of The Lagoon.

Coors Light Ram Walk Tailgate

Partnering with Brothers BBQ to provide pre-purchased meals, the Coors Light Ram Walk Tailgate from 1-4:30 p.m. Oct. 15 will include the presence of CSU groups such as the B/AACC, Alumni Association, colleges of Business and Health and Human Sciences and Parent and Family Programs. Live music, TVs and food and drink for purchase will be available to participants.

Smith Alumni Center

Open to All

Live music, a cash bar and photo opportunities with CAM the Ram will be available inside the Iris & Michael Smith Alumni Center from 1-4:30 p.m. Oct. 15. The historic Old Main Bell will be rung at 4:15 p.m.

CSU vs. Utah State

The Rams football team will take on the Utah State Aggies for the third home game of the season at 5 p.m. Oct. 15 in Canvas Stadium.

Reach Sam Hutton at news@ collegian.com.

CIRA, NOAA bring atmospheric science, research to CSU

By Allie Seibel

@allie_seibel_

The Cooperative Institute for Research in the Atmosphere and its partner, the Regional and Mesoscale Meteorology Branch, work with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration to conduct atmospheric research on storms to better prepare residents across the country for severe weather situations.

With Hurricane Ian’s recent landfall in Cuba, Florida and South Carolina, the CIRA team’s satellite imagery was picked up and used alongside coverage in news sources including The New York Times, BBC News, ABC News and CNN.

structure of the storm, see details of the inner eye and the dynamics going on within that area and really supporting NOAA in terms of understanding what that storm would be doing next.”

Geostationary satellites are satellites that are launched into Earth’s atmosphere and remain at a fixed point in orbit while capturing images of Earth. The satellites move in time with the planet, providing continuous high-definition imagery of the Earth.

need to allocate from the federal government, for example.”

NOAA and CIRA formed their partnership in 1980: a four-decade ongoing partnership in atmospheric research headquartered at the Colora do State University Foothills Campus.

“We’re positioned at Colorado State University so that we can couple with the atmospheric science department principally — but other colleges and departments within the university — to tap into academia and the basic foundational knowledge that’s generated in this national highly ranked university and to take that information and turn it into actionable tools and things of practical use for society.”

STEVEN MILLER DIRECTOR OF THE COOPERATIVE INSTITUTE FOR RESEARCH IN THE ATMOSPHERE

“It was a very concerning storm for us to track in terms of the differences with Ian versus other storms in the past,” said Steven Miller, director of CIRA and a professor of atmospheric science at Colorado State University.

“Only recently have we had this newer generation of geostationary satellites, which are capable of providing very high space and time resolution imagery,” Miller said. “We were able to track the storm in ways that could not be done in years past; we’re really able to drill down into the

CIRA currently has three geostationary satellites in orbit through their Geostationary Operational Environmental Satellite — R Series project. The first GOES-R satellite, GOES16, launched in November 2016 and was followed by GOES-17 in March 2018 and GOES-18 in March of this year. According to the GOES — R website, the GOES-R series of satellites will be completed with a launch of another satellite in 2024.

“There’s so many cool satellites that we’re trying to get up into space,” said Matt Rogers, CIRA research associate and education and outreach coordinator.

“We work very closely with NOAA and NASA in terms of instrument development,” Rogers said. “With geostationary satellites, in addition to weather, we can learn all kinds of interesting information from seeing the Earth at night, like power outages. We can see that from space, and we can get a sense of how big the outages are and how much resources we might

“We’ve worked through several generations of meteorological satellites,” Miller said. “It’s all for helping society make the most out of investments in the space and taking advantage of these really neat sensors that are flying up there in orbit that can take pictures of the weather and the weather in motion and tell us all different kinds of things about what’s going on right now.”

CIRA’s connection to CSU combines the atmospheric science department with CIRA and RAMMB’s research and resources to expand access to academic profession als at CSU as well as technology and resources within CIRA.

“We’re positioned at Colorado State University so that we can couple with the atmospheric science department principally — but also with other colleges and departments within the university — to tap into academia and the basic foundational knowledge that’s generated in this national highly ranked university and to take that information and turn it into actionable tools and things of practical use for society,” Miller said.

CIRA’s main goal with severe weather imagery is to better guide forecasts and public safety warnings.

“I think sometimes it’s hard to understand forecasts, especially when you have a landfalling hurricane

that’s hitting a major populated area,” Rogers said. “Storms like Ian give us a real opportunity to figure out exactly how to get the forecasting and evacuation messaging across better. If satellite imagery helps with that, then we want to be present any way we can.”

In addition to hurricanes, RAMMB’s geostationary satellites primarily monitor air quality, blizzards, fires, volcanoes and dust storms, according to CIRA’s satellite library.

“We’re working to help NOAA anticipate, better predict and better give guidance to forecasters, which are ultimately advising you and I about when to take shelter, when to evacuate and what to look out for in the near future,” Miller said.

Going forward, Miller hopes CIRA will continue to stay on the cutting edge of satellite research to better inform the public of severe weather emergencies.

“We’re working to continuously get better and better prepared for these kinds of events in the future,” Miller said. “With a changing climate, perhaps we might anticipate some storms happening differently than they have in the past in terms of where they form, how intense they become, how many storms we might see and where they go. As we enter this new paradigm, we’re going to really be more and more reliant on the observations, the models and the forecasts of these storms so we can give the public the best possible guidance.”

Reach Allie Seibel at news@ collegian.com.

Point of pride: Why do we celebrate homecoming at CSU?

COLETTE STERLING ASSISTANT DIRECTOR OF CSU PARENT AND FAMILY PROGRAMS

By DJ Vicente @deejmako

As the orange colors of autumn arrive to coat the Colorado State University campus, build-up for Homecoming begins.

Students, parents and alumni will experience a weekend of CSU’s longest-standing traditions, from the Festival on The Oval to the Homecoming football game as the finale of the weekend.

Members of the CSU and Fort Collins community are invited to participate in the events, but a question that may permeate the minds of attendees is asked: Why do we do Homecoming?

“There’s this common green thread that runs through us … to be able to bring people back to that home, to that place where they became so much of who they are now,” said Amy Jo Miller, director of marketing and communications for CSU’s Alumni Association. “That’s what Homecoming does.”

While a seemingly nebulous question for an event so ingrained in CSU’s history, different perspectives throughout the community shed light on the importance of the tradition.

For Miller, Homecoming weekend is celebrated for alumni to connect with their roots once more. While CSU isn’t Miller’s alma mater, after being here for 11 years and with the Alumni Association for more than half that time, CSU and Fort Collins became her home.

“It’s a chance for all of us as a campus community to really show those pride points and to showcase what’s changing, what’s new, what’s coming (and) what we’re doing, and that (makes) alumni super proud to look back at their university to see how much growth and evolution is happening,” Miller said.

For Colette Sterling, assistant director of Parent and Family Programs, Homecoming & Family Weekend is done for the families of students at CSU to connect with the school’s traditions and history, tying them to the school on a deeper level by interacting with different elements of the university.

“I love getting to see the traditions families create as a result of the traditions that we start for their student,” Sterling said. “It’s one of those major ways of creating a sense of community.”

Sterling also mentioned the impact Homecoming has on the Fort Collins community, with its connection to CSU allowing community members to interact with students and traditions, even with student-focused events like the lighting of the A.

“Even though it’s student-facing, it really ties in a lot of community members to be involved with our students and to feel like they have a place at CSU too so that CSU isn’t an insular place,” Sterling said.

The perspective of current students also comes into play when discussing the importance of Homecoming at CSU. For students, Homecoming acts as

a means to celebrate their hard work on campus and recognize achievements from the first half of the semester.

“We want to let the students just relax a little bit and say, ‘Hey, we understand you’re working really hard, and we appreciate you,’” said Reed Vega, a CSU student and director of traditions and programs for the Associated Students of Colorado State University.

Vega is responsible for the weekend’s Homecoming student tailgate, one of the ways CSU and its organizations aim to celebrate the hard work students have put

in and signify a continuation of recognizing hard work from students as they move through the year.

“My overarching goal is to create a sense of community at CSU and to also make the students proud to be a CSU Ram,” Vega said.

Jess Dyrdahl, ASCSU’s assistant director/adviser, said reconnecting with old friends made in her years in college is the importance she assigns to Homecoming weekend, recalling a meeting during which she recognized familiar

names on an RSVP list of Homecoming attendees.

“It’s people that were a big part of your life, whether it was a semester or multiple years, and it’s just a chance to then come back together,” Dyrdahl said.

Homecoming remains one of the most consistent traditions at CSU, with this year’s events aiming to promote a sense of “Ram Pride,” Dyrdahl said.

“There’s something for everyone, regardless of what your connection was to CSU,” Dyrdahl said.

Reach DJ Vicente at life@ collegian.com.

“Even though it’s student-facing, it really ties in a lot of community members to be involved with our students and to feel like they have a place at CSU too so that CSU isn’t an insular place.”

CAM the Ram makes an appearance at the Colorado State University Homecoming procession to Canvas Stadium Oct. 9, 2021.

PHOTO BY GARRETT MOGEL THE COLLEGIAN

Show the fam what it’s like to be a Ram: 5 staple CSU eateries

By Katherine Borsting @katbor2025

Family Weekend usually means a nice dinner and a long trip to the grocery store. Running up a tab while the parents are in town is a college norm.

Many students anticipate this weekend when they get to hang out with their families, as many come from out of state. Time with family is special when you have been apart, and Fort Collins is a great place to reconnect with loved ones you have missed.

Colorado State University’s campus will be extra prideful the weekend of Oct. 15, as alumni, students and parents will be all over town for Homecoming & Family Weekend.

Fort Collins is a college town with numerous great restaurants that are unique to the area. If your family is coming into town, make sure to check out these spots.

1. Bondi Beach Bar and Grill

Located right in Old Town Square, Bondi Beach Bar and Grill is the essence of a college town hangout. It captures the nightlife Old Town offers and is a staple spot for students over 21 years old. If your family is on the rowdy side, a night out at Bondi might be up their alley. If you plan to get a little out of hand while your family is around, the party scene Bondi has at night is the place to be.

2. Rainbow Restaurant

Open since 1976, Rainbow Restaurant is a breakfast and lunch spot right off CSU’s campus that’s typically packed Saturdays and Sundays, as students will often go after a night out. Rainbow offers a variety of items for all dietary needs and has raving reviews. Open from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. every day except Tuesday, it is a great spot to grab breakfast with your family before the game. Rainbow supports local growers and businesses around Fort Collins and has that smalltown, local feel.

3. Wolverine Farm Publick House

Wolverine Farm Publick House is a nonprofit publishing house, event space, coffee bar and arts and music venue. Its unique space lends itself well to art exhibitions, literature gatherings and live music. Grab a cup of coffee here and enjoy the company of your family while checking out some of the artwork created by the hands of local artists. Find Wolverine Farm at 316 Willow St.

4. Walrus Ice Cream

Walrus Ice Cream is locally owned and has been around since 1987. This Old Town dessert destination

makes all its ice cream by hand using fresh ingredients. Just a walk away from campus at 125 W. Mountain Ave., Walrus is a great place to grab something sweet and catch up with your family.

5. New Belgium Brewing

Started in Fort Collins, New Belgium Brewing is a staple spot and one of Fort Collins’ claims to fame.

Take a bike ride over with your family and get a tour or just a drink — if you’re 21 or older, of course. Show your folks some history of Fort Collins with New Belgium’s humble beginnings, as the well-known brewery was started by a local couple.

According to the New Belgium website, “the business puts co-worker and community well-being at the center of everything we do.” Maybe embrace Ram spirit and grab an Old Aggie beer brewed by New Belgium in collaboration with CSU.

Fort Collins has a wide variety of things to do and places to see. As Family Weekend approaches, Fort Collins and CSU will be lively as visitors from all over come to show their CSU pride. Local businesses will be booming all weekend as the town comes together to celebrate each other and the Rams.

Reach Katherine Borsting at life@ collegian.com.

Ram pride: Looking back at the years of cheer

1980s

While the look changed in the ‘70s, the ‘80s were when athleticism really took off. The outfits remained fashionable and form-fitting, and sneakers entered the scene to ensure the new routines — competitive with those of gymnasts — could be achieved. Gone were the days of simple cheers from bubbly sideline participants, and in was the age of gymnastic-level prowess on the field.

1990s

cheer at CSU has remained a support to the community while also developing something worth taking great pride in.

1980s

By Ivy Secrest @ivysecrest

As competitions de veloped into popularity throughout the ‘90s, cheer uniforms be came more diverse, with teams having multiple outfits to reflect different rou tines and up their performances. This is when spirit squads be came a sport in their own right, holding claim to several established com petitive events that no longer restricted them to the sidelines.

1970s 1990s

Homecoming weekend means tailgates, school pride and football. While the scoreboard will change and the fans will evolve, one constant support remains enthusiastically on the field: cheer

While you may think of the history of cheer as some sort of long-winded popularity contest, there’s much more to those who put the “pep” in pep rally. They keep us engaged and entertained while having a whole ath letic world of their own to adhere to.

Their names have changed, and their outfits and routines have evolved, but their presence on the field is essential to main taining the energy of the game. Cheer is a sport in its own right, and while their cheer and athleticism are impressive, cheerleaders have also remained fashion icons for decades.

1970s

The free spirit and grooviness of the 1970s were reflected in the cheer style of the time. Formfitting outfits replaced the sweaters and long skirts of the ‘50s and ‘60s. Bright colors, stripes and popular crops swooped in to declare the new era of Ram pride. A great decade of change emerged, and many of the classic cheer traditions were set to evolve with the rest of the world.

2000s

While the general appearance may not have changed, spandex and more athletic materials entered the cheer sphere in the 2000s. This was done to make it easier for athletes to jump, flip, kick and tumble their way to the top. Cheer movies grew in popularity, and the Rams continued with their peers in developing the competitive, athletic side of cheer.

Now

Cheerleading uniforms jump back and forth now, sometimes challenging the norm, other times paying respect to the styles that preceded their squad. While cheerleaders have gained their own athletic status, their role on the sidelines never wavered; it sim ply grew. Supporting their fellow athletes, spirit squad members at CSU have built up Ram pride for decades, from routine to uniform.

The history of cheer is intertwined with CSU’s history. Their presence is a reflection of the styles in which we wish to be perceived and the pride that emanates throughout Fort Collins: Ram pride.

Going into this weekend’s events, take time to appreciate the vast depth of history around you. From chanting in long skirts and sweaters to tumbling in sneakers and spandex mini skirts,

2000s

PHOTO VIA SILVER SPRUCE

PHOTO VIA SILVER SPRUCE

PHOTO VIA SILVER SPRUCE

A member of the Colorado State University’s Golden Poms waits to cheer while the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff’s starting lineup is announced Nov.

2021.

PHOTO BY LUCY MORANTZ

COLLEGIAN

treat each family

dignity

respect.

to speak for those who

You can officially smoke CSU in cannabis form

By Bella Eckburg @yaycolor

Editor’s Note: This is a satire piece from The Collegian’s opinion section. Real names and the events surrounding them may be used in fictitious/semi-fictitious ways. Those who do not read the editor’s notes are subject to being offended.

Have you ever shot up out of the comfort of sleep in the middle of the night (likely after your evening high has worn off) quaking in wonder over the question, “What strain would Colorado State University be if it was cannabis?”

Don’t worry, little lamb. Rest your eyes — I come in peace with the answer.

CSU is a very diverse and interesting place with lots to see and lots of people to meet. This clearly means CSU would be a hybrid, but with more sativa than indica.

No one smokes CSU and thinks, “Wow, this isn’t stressful at all!” You’ve got midterms, a losing football team and a beautiful little Rambouillet sheep walking around campus — it’s a magical, stressful place.

It’s got enough sativa to make you a teeny bit paranoid someone might

randomly knock on your apartment door and you’ll have to begrudgingly answer and act like a functioning human being — but not enough to be considered that Schedule I type of weed the government is so worried about.

Aggies. Sure, CSU would slap in a cartridge form (it would have that smoke that tastes like dirt, though, not a fancy flavor like banana, which my mom likes). We’re all-natural, farming kind of folk around here, and our weed is homegrown.

The flower is mostly green, with a hint of purple because going to university has to be romanticized and enticing to potential students. Purple is the color of wealth too, and college is freaking expensive.

It would be the perfect density and consistency, never crumbling and falling apart or sticking to your hands and leaving you with skunk fingers.

It’s frosty with little crystals like snow falling over the A at Horsetooth Reservoir. Looking at it under a microscope to grasp its full glory is the only way to do it justice. We are an academic institution, after all.

I’d like to think CSU would prefer to be in flower form because we’re rooted in the legacy of the

The high wouldn’t be mindnumbing, sit-your-ass-on-the-couch debilitating; you have to be prepared to write a 700-word discussion post at any time, so the brain fog needs to be limited unless you want to have an awkward conversation with your professor about how your post slowly devolved into a wish list of snacks you want to get at 7-Eleven later.

The flower would burn evenly and thoroughly whenever lit because it was carefully nurtured by the university’s agricultural students, who play the plants Ludwig van Beethoven’s greatest hits morning and night. These kids are committed to their craft, and the burn patterns would show the fruits of their labor.

The university strain would not be too expensive to start out, but that’s how they get you. They’ll raise the price once you realize the quality, but I don’t think those Aggie kids will see a dime.

The strain would fund the Andrew G. Clark Building’s renovation, with money to spare to buy CAM the Ram and his farm friends mall-grade massage chairs. Any extra money would probably go toward the Associated Students of Colorado State University’s senate, naturally.

Now that you have your answers, light up, and get some rest. CSU agricultural students are busting ass to bring you academically sourced and grown cannabis as we speak.

Reach Bella Eckburg at cannabis@collegian.com.

GRAPHIC ILLUSTRATION BY TRIN BONNER THE COLLEGIAN

“The strain would fund the Andrew G. Clark Building’s renovation, with money to spare to buy CAM the Ram and his farm friends mallgrade massage chairs. Any extra money would probably go toward the Associated Students of Colorado State University’s senate, naturally.”

Coffee 101:ffee

A guide for the less caffeine obsessed

Hello from your friendly neighborhood barista! Whether you’re a black coffee kinda person or prefer more sugar than coffee in your beverages, this feature is for you. Recognizing the difference between traditional coffee drinks and their famous chain equivalents will not only make you more coffee-savvy, but will save you from receiving something quite unexpected at certain coffee shops or when traveling abroad.

Caramel Macchiato

Introduced in 1996, the famous caramel macchiato has been a huge hit thanks to its delectable dessert-like nature.

This drink consists of steamed milk, vanilla syrup and, of course, caramel drizzle. Before this debut, a macchiato may have meant something totally different to the general public.

Macchiato

Maa kee aa tow

Calories

A traditional or caffè macchiato, recognized on many menus as an espresso macchiato, is comprised of one to two shots of espresso topped with a dollop of foam. The word macchiato means “marked” in Italian and is an appropriate title for this drink since the espresso is essentially “marked” by the foam that is dolloped on top. Caffè macchiatos are enjoyed around the world, identified by numerous names such as the popular ‘long macchiato’ in Australia and the ‘Cafe Pintado’ in Portugal. Being primarily espresso, this beverage has a very strong coffee taste with no ad-ins to cut the intensity. Whether the thought of straight coffee is appealing to you or quite the opposite, you now know the difference between traditional macchiatos and caramel macchiatos.

By: Ali Pierce

Planning a Trip? Cornerstone Travels is in YOUR Corner...

With travel plans finally starting to come back on every one's horizons, having a friend in your corner could be the difference between a stressful trip and the best experience of your year. Luckily, Colorado State alumni Nick Baker and his company Cornerstone Travels can help. With years of travel experience and access to special bundles and deals, he can help you plan your next adventure.

“The biggest myth out there is that travel agents cost the traveler money,” Baker said. In fact, the way travel agents make their money is from the hotels, airlines, cruises, etc. By using a travel agent, you pay the same or similar costs as other booking sites, however, a fee built into the price goes to the agent rather than the booking site. Baker specializes in plan ning trips, including tours, shows, transportation and more. Dedicated to constantly learning, Baker remarked, “My favorite thing is to find fun hole-in-the-wall locations, or really cool things off the beaten path. I love to discover the secrets of each destination, and share them with my clients.”

A new set of adventures offered by Cornerstone Travels are catered to sports and pop culture fans. Travel to see your favorite team, or the locations of your favorite book/movie on pre-planned itineraries, cultivated by fans.

Cornerstone Travels is a family owned business located in Northern Colorado. For more information about how to save time, money and stress on your next adventure, find them on Instagram, @cornerstonetravels, or their contact information on Google.

Gel Head — an appetizing, easy smoke

By Taylor Paumen @taytaypau

As the leaves continue to change colors and fall to the ground, Coloradans know the first snowfall is just around the corner. The winter brings habits of staying inside and being warm while binging the latest murder documentary. But for stoners, it’s also the time of year to put together an insulated yet quick outfit to run outside for a fast smoke.

that will amplify your cold weather activities. This week we’re checking out #Hash wax products from LivWell Enlightened Health.

Gel Head, an indica-dominant sugar wax testing at 68.8% THC, is this week’s lucky pick. The dark orange tint made me eager for what this strain had to offer.

While the amount of THC in Gel Head was less than the 80% average I try to look for, it matched to the high you’d expect. If you’re someone with a higher tolerance, you might find yourself taking a few more hits than you’re used to. However, if you’re a once-in-awhile kind of smoker, this level of THC could be perfect for you.

when I know tolerance seemed to come through, which is why I think Gel Head would be a great option for those of you who aren’t regular cannabis consumers. Being able to take back-to-back hits was only possible due to how smoothly the sugar wax evaporated.

Smoking cannabis can feel intimidating and harsh to your body, but when you find a strain that’s as smooth as Gel Head, you find a sense of relief.

“Smoking cannabis can feel intimidating and harsh to your body, but when you find a strain that’s as smooth as Gel Head, you find a sense of relief.”

After one hit I didn’t seem to feel much, but the lack of high was pleasantly overpowered by the tastefulness of the wax. An exhale of Gel Head leaves you with a sweet aftertaste that’s hard to find.

Indica is known for its relaxing qualities, which were in full swing in this wax, creating a very calming sense of reality. After indulging, all I wanted to do was break out a simple puzzle or catch up on the latest episodes of “Rick and Morty.”

So grab your sweatshirts and Carhartt beanies because we’ve got another strain worth checking out

I wanted to test the limits of this strain to get a real understanding of its effects, so I dove headfirst and took about as many hits as I could in a sitting. While I don’t advise this method of smoking, this was purely for science.

Four to six hits later, I was finally baked. This is the point

and friend to a

However, if you’re more like myself and are looking for a wax that will give you a buzz off the first hit, this product might not be what you’re after. Usually a gram of wax can last me anywhere from a week and half to two weeks, but because of the amount I personally would need to consume to get me to the level of high I prefer, I can see myself blazing through this gram in a week.

Regardless, for $16, Gel Head could be an affordable

pick for casual smokers to get a tasty moment of bliss. For my consistent consumers, I wouldn’t waste your time unless you want

a cheap, short-lived but yummy smoke break. 5/10 rating.

Reach Taylor Paumen at  cannabis@collegian.com.

BY

By Guest Author @csucollegian

Editor’s Note: “Because I Got High” content consists of community story submissions and does not represent the views of The Collegian or its editorial board. The Collegian does not promote underage or excessive substance use or impairment for the purpose of creating a submission.

Birthday parties

It was my friend’s birthday, and it was weed themed. Her mom gave us edibles, joints and THC oil for our teas. We did not know that different strains would give us different highs,

though, so the people on edibles fell asleep, the people smoking joints watched “Rick and Morty” and those of us on the oil went on a run together. We ended up getting lost on the run and couldn’t find our way back, but the other people were too high to come find us. We ended up circling the house for a good three hours. All in all, make sure you’re on the same high as your friends.

Friend to a first-timer

I have a friend who doesn’t smoke at all, and I used to be the type to really hate weed because where I was raised it was illegal (lame, I know). I felt like I’d be a safe friend for anyone who wanted to smoke because I don’t push it like a typical stoner friend being like, “Dude, it’ll change your life.” When we smoked together it was immediately a bad idea; she said she felt like she was moving through dimensions and couldn’t latch onto one. We watched “RuPaul’s Drag Race”until she felt better. Sorry, queen!

To submit stories, email cannabis@ collegian.com or fill out our Google Form, which is linked alongside guidelines in our Letter from the Editor.

Photo illustration of an indica dominant sugar wax, Gel Head, from LivWell Enlightened Health Marijuana Dispensary Oct. 10. The taste delivered a fruity and floral sensation that soothes the sight. PHOTO BY TRI DUONG THE COLLEGIAN

How to get the most out of your Homecoming weekend

GRAPHIC ILLUSTRATION BY CHLOE LELINE 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 The Collegian or its editorial board.

Homecoming week is a time for Rams of the past and present to reunite and celebrate their Ramily in a weekend of fun and football.

Whether you’re hosting a tailgate and grilling some bratwursts or killing time before Saturday’s kickoff, Fort Collins has a lot of activities for you to give your visiting family the full FoCo tour. Here are five things you should know to make the most out of Colorado State University and Fort Collins’ Homecoming offers.

Prepare for the unexpected

If you’re planning on making the rounds and participating in all of the events CSU is offering this year to celebrate Homecoming, you have to prepare for the unexpected. On Oct. 14 and 15, heavy traffic and parking could be an issue. Make time to arrive early.

Wanting to swing by a few bars? Be mindful of lines — happy hour in a college town is a match made in heaven.

Get a cup of coffee near campus

One of my favorite things to do on the days before game day is walk around campus with my family and see everyone with their family or their friends.

There really is no better feeling than having a hot drink in your hand while bundled up on a cool fall day and giving your family a tour of your home while you await festivities. Lucky for you, the campus area is crawling with coffee shops of all shapes and sizes.

First, a few on campus: Morgan’s Grind Cafe in the Morgan Library, Sweet Sinsations Cafe in the Lory Student Center, Sweet Temptations Cafe in the Behavioral Sciences Building and The Human Bean truck, which is usually parked in the Moby Arena parking lot.

main events begin Oct. 13. You can watch the Friday Night Lights events starting at 6 p.m. Oct. 14, including the lighting of the A to represent Aggie pride, the big bonfire and an assortment of firework displays on the Lory Student Center West Lawn.

We’re celebrating, after all: We’ve got a win under our football belt (finally). Make time to see the Ram Walk as the CSU Marching Band leads the football team to the Canvas Stadium — one of my favorite parts of game day.

Saturday’s the big day when the CSU football team faces off against Utah State University. Grab your tickets, and buy a beer.

Do some window shopping — or, you know, actual shopping

You can determine for yourself whether they’re worth it — or you can look longingly at them and then buy a cute CSU sweater you’ll wear over and over.

Window shopping around Old Town is also always fun, even if you only buy a little trinket or a snack. FoCo is home to a bunch of little boutiques, plant stores, restaurants and more. It’s super pedestrian-friendly, and you’ll probably see a lot of dogs.

Spend time soaking it all in with your friends and family

If you want to go to dinner as a family or with friends, definitely call ahead to snag a reservation for your party, and don’t get snippy with employees — it’s a busy weekend, and they’re doing their best to ensure you’re having a good time.

Close to campus, you can find a Mugs location near The Oval and Momo Lolo Coffee Shop on West Elizabeth Street across from the Moby Arena parking lot. It’s pumpkin spice season, y’all!

Stop by a CSU Homecoming event

CSU is hosting a plethora of Homecoming events, and the

I’ve lived my four years at CSU with crippling envy about not owning my own pair of those incredible yellow and greenstriped overalls. There is nothing better than watching groups of people walk by in those silly pants, but will I ever actually wear them outside of football season? Probably not.

You only get so many homecoming weekends, so make the most of your time. Even if you’re a homebody on a daily basis, getting out and enjoying the fall weather with your loved ones is good for your brain.

There is a lot of flexibility this weekend, and there is so much to see and smell and interact with across campus and the community. Cross your fingers for Saturday’s game, grab a coffee or spiced cider, be safe and enjoy the weekend.

Reach Bella Eckburg at letters@ collegian.com.

“You only get so many homecoming weekends, so make the most of your time. Even if you’re a homebody on a daily basis, getting out and enjoying the fall weather with your loved ones is good for your brain.”

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4 ways to tailor the best tailgate experience

By Michael Stella @michaelstella_

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

College football is one of the greatest privileges as an American, and there is nothing better than spending your Saturday in a parking lot by your favorite college stadium tailgating. Tailgating is an art, and when done right, the outcome of the game does not really matter. Here are four ways to make your tailgate experience one to remember.

1. Find yourself a good beer

Any good tailgate needs good beer, and in the case of Colorado State University’s Homecoming weekend, you would be remiss to drink anything other than a New Belgium Brewing’s Old Aggie Superior Lager. Not only is it the official lager of CSU, but it is also a quality beer that will get you through the day.

Let’s be honest: With the way CSU’s football season is going, you are going to want to consume a healthy amount of beer, and Old Aggie is a beer you can sip all day long.

If beer is not your drink of choice, a Bud Light Seltzer will not let you down and is light enough to keep you going. Then again, if you are at a football tailgate in Fort Collins, you should be drinking beer.

2. Get out your miniature grill and games

An equally important aspect of the tailgate experience is the food.

A camp grill or stove might just be the best investment you can make for tailgating so you can have hot, fresh food. You do not have to go overboard with the food. Keeping it simple with hot dogs and burgers will make everyone happy. Throwing

some potato salad and baked beans in there will go a long way as well.

Tailgates can drag on if you do not have entertainment or something to keep you busy. This is where America’s pastime of cornhole comes in. The classic backyard game — popular in the Midwest — is a great sport to bring.

3. Await the marching band’s triumphant arrival

Possibly the best part of tailgating at CSU is the opportunity to see the CSU Marching Band during Ram Walk.

Ram Walk — when the CSU Marching Band walks the CSU football team to Canvas Stadium from the Intramural Fields, where other pregame activities take place — happens a few hours before kickoff.

For the Homecoming game, the band will leave Canvas Stadium at 1:55 p.m. and start performing on the Intramural Fields at 2:05 p.m.

Once the football team arrives on the team bus, they start the walk back to Canvas Stadium.

College football is superior to NFL football for a lot of reasons, but the most distinctive difference that makes college football better is the marching bands. Take a break from your tailgate and get in the spirit

No Homecoming parade.

Paper cuts.

by listening to the CSU Marching Band during Ram Walk.

Making time to stop by Ram Walk is a great way to get in the spirit to cheer on the Rams as they take on the Mountain West Conference football champions Utah State University Oct. 15.

At your tailgate, now you have the beer, the food and some entertainment. The last few things you need for the perfect tailgate come down to the individual tailgater.

4. Manage your accessories and time

Bringing camp chairs and a shade structure is always a good idea. Having a football to toss around to remind you of your high school football glory days cannot hurt as well.

Crowd sizes have been relatively smaller at Canvas this year due to poor on-field performances by the football team, but leaving your tailgate in time for the pregame festivities is crucial. Make sure to leave enough time to get through the entrance line at Canvas Stadium so you can see the CSU Marching Band’s pregame performance at 4:43 p.m.

Reach Michael Stella at letters@ collegian.com.

Waking up in a cold sweat at 2 a.m., remembering you forgot to turn in an assignment that you did, in fact, complete.

Family coming to town. Overcrowded bars.

Family coming to town.

Basketball season approaching.

Dogs in sweaters.

Beer gardens.

When the bus driver waits for you.

GRAPHIC ILLUSTRATION BY BRIAN PEÑA THE COLLEGIAN

SERIOUSLY SCANDALOUS

CAM mascot arrested for attempted football game tampering

By Callum Burke @burkec0621

Editor’s Note: This is a satire piece from The Collegian’s opinion section. Real names and the events surrounding them may be used in fictitious/semi-fictitious ways. Those who do not read the editor’s notes are subject to being offended.

There are very few occasions on Colorado State University’s campus that spark as much joy as the football team scraping a win.

Thankfully, our beloved Rams got their first taste of victory in the season Oct. 7 against the University of Nevada, Reno’s Wolf Pack, and everyone involved seemed to be happy about the result and eagerly looking on to our Homecoming game to grab another — at least, almost everyone involved.

With no offensive touchdowns scored by the Rams in the first win — only two defensive touchdowns and a field goal — some important figures may have felt that the effort was not valiant enough for their standards.

The culprit is none other than the man inside the CAM the Ram costume, a mascot students and fans have slowly come to know and love, who is currently under investigation for his involvement in the attempt to rig our upcoming Homecoming football game against Utah State University in favor of the Rams. Additionally, The Collegian is looking further into past games that CAM may have manipulated in any way, shape or form.

Before you ask; no, this is not about the lovable, furry and real CAM the Ram that eats lettuce and smiles for photos — he could

do no wrong. It’s the scummy clown in the mascot suit holding the T-shirt cannon. He’s the real dirtbag here.

Unfortunately, what doesn’t help The Collegian’s case is that all human mascots maintain strict secrecy from the public eye. A true name cannot be released to the public.

Nonetheless, just a few days ago, The Collegian received eerie photos from an anonymous source of our CAM mascot in a dark alleyway outside USU’s football stadium in Logan, Utah, handing over a brown paper bag to their head football coach, Blake Anderson. More suspiciously, the brown paper bag had a large money sign drawn on the outside, more than likely indicating a cash exchange made between the two.  Anderson declined to speak on the events that transpired.

CAM, believing he had gotten back to CSU’s campus without a trace of his whereabouts, was promptly taken into custody and interviewed upon his arrival in Fort Collins the next day.

“What a steaming heap of bullcrap this is if you’re just going to automatically pin me as guilty without allowing me to explain myself even a little,” CAM said.

“You don’t know what it’s like inside the mask watching us lose on the sidelines. Just after our last home game, a little girl blamed me, specifically, for the loss and spit in my direction. The suit is claustrophobic and sad, and I just want to witness a true showcasing of our team getting a win. If that’s a crime, then lock me up.”

It is indeed a crime.

Although an admittedly heartwarming excuse for such a felonious and frowned upon crime attempt, later investigations

found deeper reasons for CAM’s involvement in the bribing scandal.

CAM is believed to currently be over $120,000 in debt for betting on college football games involving Mountain West Conference teams. It is also speculated that CAM has fixed or attempted to fix more than seven games this year alone, not including our Oct. 15 home game.

It is quite apparent that our once openly embraced mascot was hiding a deep, dark secret from the public. Thankfully, The Collegian has concluded that it was a one-man job and no one else is to be investigated.

Hopefully, this is the last the Rams hear about game tampering from CAM or anything related. Besides, we should be able to snatch this Homecoming win without his assistance anyways.

Reach Callum Burke at letters@ collegian.com.

GRAPHIC ILLUSTRATION BY TRIN BONNER THE COLLEGIAN

“It is quite apparent that our once openly embraced mascot was hiding a deep, dark secret from the public. Thankfully, The Collegian has concluded that it was a one-man job and no one

1. Colorado State University football head coach Jay Norvell plans the team’s next plays from the sideline during their game against Middle Tennessee State University Sept. 10. This season is Norvell’s first chance to lead the Rams since the program parted ways with former head coach Steve Addazio last year.

PHOTO BY REUEL INDURKAR THE COLLEGIAN

2. Former Colorado State University quarterback Todd Centeio (7) lines up in the Border War football game against the University of Wyoming Nov. 6, 2021. The Rams lost 31-17 with Centeio going 20/36 passing and throwing two touchdowns but also two interceptions.

PHOTO BY GREGORY JAMES THE COLLEGIAN

3. CAM the Ram makes his rounds with the Ram Handlers in Canvas Stadium before the start of the football game against Boise State University Oct. 30, 2021. The Ram Handlers walked CAM around to greet the fans who arrived early.

4. Colorado State University football fans cheer during the game against Middle Tennessee State University Sept. 10. CSU lost 34-19.

PHOTO BY REUEL INDURKAR THE COLLEGIAN

5. The Colorado State University student section watches the Rams take on South Dakota State University Sept. 3, 2021. Canvas Stadium was filled with an over 32,000-person crowd — 89% of the stadium’s capacity — for this game.

PHOTO BY GREGORY JAMES THE COLLEGIAN

1973

Flashback to 1973: CSU vs. Utah State Homecoming game

On Oct. 13, 1973, the Colorado State University football team hosted Utah State University at Hughes Stadium. Now, 49 years later, the Rams will again host the Utah State Aggies in Fort Collins for the annual Homecoming football game Oct. 15.

This coincidence is why this week’s photo gallery is a flashback to the 1973 football season. Photos from the 1974 edition of the Silver Spruce yearbook serve to show the evolution of CSU football and sports culture over the last five decades.

1973

COLLEGIAN FILE PHOTO

EARN A DEGREE AND A

A look at 100 years of CSU Homecoming football history

Homecoming game between alumni and the football team at the time.

“When Dr. Lory created the first Homecoming in 1914, it was meant to instill pride in the school and also return alumni to the campus in the form of reunions,” said John Hirn, volunteer historian for CSU Athletics.

The alumni won 3-0, Hirn added. The tradition of alumni versus the team held up for a few years, and then in 1922, CSU played their first intercollegiate Homecoming game against the Colorado School of Mines, which CSU won 19-0.

CSU has done a good job of keeping the general vibes up around Homecoming and tends to feel like a winning team during Homecoming.

Darrell Blair, a senior instructor at CSU, said he feels the same way.

“In my opinion, I would hate to think that I’m wrong,” Blair said. “Typically we try to schedule a team that’s more beatable, and I think we’ve done well.”

By Damon Cook @dwcook2001

Colorado State University has a long and prosperous history full of many traditions and events. One of those events is the Homecoming

football game. This year, CSU will face Utah State University in the 100th anniversary of CSU’s first intercollegiate Homecoming football game. So how has the CSU football team fared over these years, and what kind of traditions have they created themselves?

The origin of Homecoming came from Charles A. Lory, who was president of the university when it was known as Colorado Agricultural College. He wanted an event in which alumni of the university could return once a year for a reunion. So in 1914, he organized the first-ever

Blair’s statement checks out. A list Hirn put together showcasing every Homecoming game CSU has ever played highlights that CSU has a winning record in their history playing in the Homecoming game at 51-45-1.

This year’s game against Utah State will be CSU’s 98th Homecoming contest. Only three

times in Homecoming’s 100-year intercollegiate history has a game been canceled: twice for World War II in 1943 and 1944 and then during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020.

Over those 97 games, CSU football has come up with and displayed some great traditions. Most recently was the running of the original 1925 Homecoming flag. Hirn said that in 1925, a fan and future student of the University of Colorado Boulder stole the flag and that it was returned prior to Homecoming in 2014 — the 100th anniversary of Homecoming at CSU.

“The flag and its story of being returned to CSU on the anniversary of our 100th Homecoming intoxicated many people in the room, including the (former) interim (Athletic Director) John Morris,” Hirn said.

Since the return of the flag, CSU is 6-1 in their Homecoming contests. Colorado State will take on Utah State for their 20th Homecoming matchup Oct. 15. During the 19 contests, the record between the teams is 9-9-1, and the Rams won the most recent meeting 31-24 in 2016.

Reach Damon Cook at sports@ collegian.com.

CSU football looks for Homecoming win against 2-4 Utah State

By Kaden Porter @kqporter5

After sneaking out of Reno, Nevada, with their first win of the season last week, Colorado State University football will try to stay undefeated in Mountain West Conference play when they host Utah State University Oct. 15, for Homecoming & Family Weekend.

“Though it wasn’t pretty at times, it was really a satisfying team win,” head coach Jay Norvell said at his weekly press conference. “I thought our defense was outstanding.”

Meanwhile, Utah State is 2-4 on their season so far. Like CSU, one of the Aggies’ losses came as a blowout to a Football Championship Subdivision team at home, losing to Weber State University 35-7 Sept. 10.

Utah State is 1-1 in conference play, most recently upsetting the United States Air Force Academy 34-27 Oct. 8. They have scored at least 20 points in all but two games this season, so CSU’s defense will look to remain in stellar form after carrying the Rams to the win last week.

JAY NORVELL

HEAD

The Rams earned their first win of the season against the University of Nevada, Reno despite not scoring an offensive touchdown. They’re now 1-4 this season overall and 1-0 in conference.

“I just really think (Utah State University) is a hard-playing team that’s getting better,” Norvell said.

With quarterback Clay Millen likely to miss another week with his shoulder injury, Giles Pooler will get the start for the Rams.

“We had some passing success with Clay (Millen) in there, so we really need him back,” Norvell said.

Utah State holds the betting edge with the majority of sportsbooks

favoring the Aggies over the Rams by around 10 points. The last time the two programs played, Utah State escaped with a 26-24 victory Oct. 22, 2021. The game will be CSU’s 98th

Homecoming football game in the university’s history. The Rams have compiled a 51-45-1 record in previous Homecoming games, winning six of their last seven since 2014.

The game is slated to kick off at 5 p.m. Oct. 15.

“We’re very excited to come back home,” Norvell said.

Reach Kaden Porter at sports@ collegian.com.

GRAPHIC

BY SOPHIA SIROKMAN THE COLLEGIAN

“I just really think (Utah State University) is a hard-playing team that’s getting better.”

CSU’s most outstanding coaches from the last 130 years

By Braidon Nourse @braidonnourse

The Colorado State University Rams aren’t best known for winning national championships in Division I sports — they have none.

However,the history of prominent figures in CSU Athletics is as rich as any other you’d find in the country. From the time Colorado State was founded in 1870, there have been some legendary coaches and athletes who have made Rams athletics what it is today.

Football

CSU’s roots in football go back to before CSU was CSU and before the Rams were the Rams. In December 1892, 22 years after the then-named Colorado Agricultural College was founded, a football player by the name of F.O. Congdon started a football team with 18 other students. A month later, they played their first-ever game against Longmont Academy, a college and high school hybrid school.

If the name Congdon doesn’t ring a bell, Harry Hughes just might. Hughes was arguably the best coach in CSU’s 130-year football history. When Hughes arrived at the university in 1911, the game was forever changed.

Hughes briefly coached men’s basketball, baseball and football along with men’s track and field during his tenure and produced a total of 13 conference titles between the four sports from 1911-53. Hughes coached legendary athlete and Pro Football Hall of Fame inductee Jack Christiansen in track and field,

along with national hammer throw champion Ivan Dyekman.

Another bullet point on Hughes’ long list of accomplishments is when he led the Aggies to their first football victory at the University of Colorado Boulder in his second year as head coach.

Hughes died less than a month after his retirement in 1953 and was later honored by the university by naming the former football stadium after him in 1968.

Track and field

One of CSU’s most talented and successful groups of athletes is the track and field team, and their current coach, Brian Bedard, will undoubtedly go down as one of the best coaches to ever lead the Rams.

Bedard has been with the university ever since he was a member of the team from 1983-88. He threw the shot put and the discus, placing in both events at conference championships. After graduating,

he went straight into coaching as an assistant, where he coached Rams’ throwers up until 2006.

He became head coach in 2006 and never looked back. The numbers speak for themselves, as Bedard has led the team to win more than a dozen conference

championships and has coached more than 90 individuals to NCAA competitions. Additionally, he has won Mountain West Conference Coach of the Year 12 times during his 16 years as head coach.

Volleyball

The Rams women’s volleyball team is another highly successful program, facilitated for the last 25 years by legendary head coach Tom Hilbert. He began his coaching career at the University of Oklahoma in 1984, moved to the University of Idaho for several years and eventually landed at CSU in 1997, where he still coaches today. When he arrived in 1997, the Rams were already good, but Hilbert made them even better. He improved from a 23-11 record in 1996 to a 27-6 record in his inaugural season. Since then, the Rams have appeared in the NCAA tournament in every season until 2020.

In Hilbert’s 25 years at CSU, he’s been awarded 12 conference Coach of the Year honors. Additionally, prior to this season, Hilbert ranked ninth among current Division I coaches in winning percentage (.780) — 14th all-time. Hilbert won his 800th career victory this season against the University of Wyoming, then got CSU’s 1,000th volleyball win two days later against the University of Nevada, Las Vegas.

Reach Braidon Nourse at sports@ collegian.com

PHOTO COURTESY OF JON HIRN, COLORADO STATE UNIVERSITY ATHLETICS

Head coach Tom Hilbert receives a commemorative golden volleyball trophy celebrating 800 career wins prior to the Colorado State University volleyball match against the University of Nevada, Las Vegas Rebels Sept. 22. Of these wins, 628 have come while Hilbert has been the head coach at CSU for the past 25 years of his 36-year head coaching career. The game against the Rebels saw the Rams come out victorious, winning

PHOTO

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‘Keeping the tradition alive’: The Alumni Marching Band legacy

By DJ Vicente @deejmako

With this year’s Homecoming & Family Weekend swiftly approaching, students, staff, family and the Fort Collins community will experience some of Colorado State University’s finest festivities and long-held traditions.

One of these beloved traditions is the CSU Alumni Marching Band.

“History and tradition are a huge part of what makes a college marching band important and relevant,” CSU Associate Director of Bands Jayme Taylor said.

The members of the Alumni Marching Band can return after completing four or more years at CSU, and all must be former members of the school’s undergraduate marching band.

To Taylor, the return of alumni to perform at another game signifies the traditions upheld by CSU as well as ensures the undergraduate band “has a connection to its past.”

This tradition marks a number of things dear to most alumni, such as having the chance to perform another set under the lights of the stadium, interact with the current members of the band and visit CSU once again. Each alumnus has their own reason to return.

“You build such amazing relationships with the faculty and the students,” said Josh Garcia, CSU graduate and assistant director of diversity and inclusion recruitment at Berklee College of Music. “Getting to go back and connect with those folks again or to give your words of wisdom is just really special.”

“I don’t think I would’ve gotten through college if it weren’t for the long-lasting relationships I made while I was in the band,” Garcia said.

Members from different eras also return to play with the current marching band during Homecoming. Craig Wilkening, a marching band member who marched for five seasons and graduated in 1982, returns to “rekindle the fun” of performing with the band in front of a crowd.

Wilkening joined the Alumni Marching Band around 2011, noting the group’s growth in size every year since. Wilkening also mentioned the importance of legacy, recognizing the history and precedent for performance established by previous generations. He said he hopes the current marching band continues to carry these values.

“I’d like to think that the regular band sees us as the legacy, … as the founders and the pioneers, keeping the tradition alive,” Wilkening said.

As the former drum major of the CSU Marching Band in 2014, Garcia participated in the ensemble throughout his four years at CSU, and he recalled his time performing with and leading other students.

Wilkening also mentioned the shared desire to perform for crowds at CSU across generations, an aspiration that he noted hasn’t changed much since his time as a college student.

“Fun and enjoyment performing for the crowd is the

common denominator, whether it was the current band or the alumni,” Wilkening said.

Alumni who are recent graduates are also invited to join the band, and such is the case with Erin Lamberty, a four-year marching band member who graduated in 2022. This year’s Homecoming will be Lamberty’s first time participating with the alumni.

“I think it’s a part of me at this point,” Lamberty said. “I was in CSU band for four years. … It’s just such a major part of my life.”

Lamberty recalled previous years of alumni gatherings that provided the opportunity to interact with college best friends once again, reuniting “one big band family.”

Lamberty also mentioned a desire to see friends who are current undergraduate members as well.

With multiple generations of musicians returning to relive experiences they likely only ever had while performing as a student, they are able to signify the progress and change the band has undergone from year to year.

“The band can change a lot over just four years, but hearing how it’s changed over 20 or 30 years is also important to learn about the history of it and why we were created,” Lamberty said.

Garcia spoke about the importance of the band to the broader CSU community as well, indicating a commitment to the practice of tradition held by the school for decades.

Reach DJ Vicente at entertainment@collegian.com.

The

Band

at the football game

Trombone players perform in the Colorado State University Marching Band during the football game against Sacramento State University at Canvas Stadium Sept. 24. PHOTO BY SARA SHAVER THE COLLEGIAN

“I’d like to think that the regular band sees us as the legacy, … as the founders and the pioneers, keeping the tradition alive.”

CRAIG WILKENING MEMBER OF THE CSU ALUMNI MARCHING BAND

Homecoming is back: Carrying on beloved traditions

By Emmalee Krieg @csucollegian

Homecoming is back, and like many Colorado State University traditions, it’s still going strong. After a not-so-conventional Homecoming in previous years due to COVID-19, staff and students alike are as ready as ever to start the celebration.

Events kick off Oct. 13 and continue through Oct. 15. On Oct. 14, the Festival on The Oval starts at 3 p.m. and goes until 6 p.m, moving into Friday Night Lights, which runs from 6-8:30 p.m.

She commented on the attitudes around campus leading up to Homecoming weekend.

“There’s a little more pep in everyone’s step,” Jasper said.

The “pep” is certainly warranted. It’s time to get back in the swing of things, and the students are starting to feel it.

“I think honestly the pandemic has kind of altered things and changed things slightly, and we’re now just kind of finding our way back,” CSU professor Darrell Blair said.

To him, Homecomings are slightly less boisterous than they used to be. “To me, they seem tamer in this era,” Blair said.

Maybe it’s because the 1990s are a tough act to follow, or maybe the focus of Homecoming in general has shifted.

Rachel Navratil, campus activities coordinator, recalled times at the Festival on The Oval, saying, “That was my favorite thing, watching the parade in The Oval.”

Having graduated only a few years ago in 2018, Navratil hasn’t noticed much of a difference in festivities, but the family friendly nature of

events seemed to stay intact.

“I think the family aspect always was really nice to see during that weekend,” Navratil said.

While Homecoming weekend has had a rocky time the last couple of years, the buildup for this year’s is big.

Events can change and dates can be switched, but connections built

between Rams present and past are long-lasting.

“I think it’s really cool that CSU has so many cool traditions, especially surrounding, like, Homecoming and stuff,” Jasper said. “It brings you closer to alumni.”

Reach Emmalee Krieg at entertainment@collegian.com.

“The ‘pep’ is certainly warranted. It’s time to get back in the swing of things, and the students are starting to feel it.”

It’s important to first acknowledge that during the height of the COVID pandemic, Homecoming weekend wasn’t held in traditional fashion.

“The past two years with COVID has just been really wishy-washy for everyone,” said Aleiah Jasper, a third-year CSU student working at the Campus Activities office. “So personally, I think Friday Night Lights is gonna be exciting for a lot of us.”

“Let’s tamp down on the student drinking; let’s tamp down on kind of the overall party atmosphere and instead focus on more kind of the connective bridge between alumni and our institution,” Blair said.

“I think it’s just, you know, trying to build more of a campus unity,” said Ben Schrader, director of CSU’s Adult Learner and Veteran Services.

Schrader graduated with his bachelor’s degree from CSU in 2009 and his master’s in 2011.

“I think it’s more organized now; they’re doing a lot more bigger events,” Schrader said.

While the focus has maybe shifted away from rowdiness, it certainly hasn’t discouraged students from continuing the school spirit.

Decorations still line the halls and the bonfire still lights up the night like in years past, but in the past few years, some traditions really stuck out.

OVERHEARD AROUND CAMPUS

By Bella Eckburg

ARIES (MARCH 21 - APRIL 19)

Check on your relationships this week, Aries. With all that focus on your personal goals and the moon in your corner,

it’s time to balance with some tender love and care.

TAURUS (APRIL 20 - MAY 20)

Money and stability are important, Taurus, but they aren’t everything. Get creative with your resources and work life — the change might surprise you.

GEMINI (MAY 21 - JUNE 20)

You can’t become too scattered, Gemini. Taking on new interests and hobbies might be tempting, but make sure to watch your schedule and make time for personal reflection.

CANCER (JUNE 21 - JULY 22)

Give yourself a break, Cancer — you’ve earned it. Spend time focusing on activities that make your life easier, like cleaning your room or decorating your space.

LEO (JULY 23 - AUG. 22)

Keep an eye on your communication, Leo; it could get you into trouble. Focusing on the vastness of what the future holds for you is great, but be sure to cultivate personal peace with your loved ones who are present now.

VIRGO (AUG. 23 - SEPT. 22)

Declutter your mind and your schedule, Virgo. With the big things out of the way, it’s time to focus on the little things. Keep what is working and useful, and ditch the rest.

LIBRA (SEPT. 23 - OCT. 22)

It’s time to have that conversation you’ve been dreading, Libra. It might be uncomfortable, but now is the best time to handle it — you can’t avoid it any

longer. Communication and compassion are crucial to your success.

SCORPIO (OCT. 23 - NOV. 21)

Take a look at those around you, Scorpio, and look for superficiality. It’s time to vibe check your life and those in it. Lie low and observe; don’t jump straight into conflict. Things take time to smooth out.

SAGITTARIUS (NOV. 22 - DEC. 21) You’re sensitive this week, Sagittarius. Being constantly focused on the moods of others might lead you to forget yourself. Keeping your truth silent is only going to lead to struggles, so allow yourself kindness, and stay open to learning.

CAPRICORN (DEC. 22 - JAN. 19) You’re all work and no play this week, Capricorn.

Getting everything done can be disorienting, but praise is coming in due time. While you’re busy handling everything, remember to budget time, and take care of one task at a time.

AQUARIUS (JAN. 20 - FEB. 18) Adventure is out there, Aquarius, and you’re itching for it. Now is the time to bond with those around you and invite them to come along for the ride. Don’t overthink — just send it.

PISCES (FEB. 19 - MARCH 20) Give yourself space to rest, Pisces. Compassion, spirituality and imagination are key to keeping yourself open amid the chaos — it’s hard being so emotionally in tune.

the

help

the local

Last

“What’d you get on your exam?”

“Are you gonna skip?”

“Out of?”

“40.”

“I’ll skip.”

“Fuck yeah, let’s all go to Horsetooth right now.”

Homecoming Savings!