Rocky Mountain
Are students getting enough sleep?
ighlighter
Oct. 8, 2010
Features, B1
The end of Mulberry Pool?
Volume 38, No. 2
Sports, A8
Everything as far as you can see -John Denver, Rocky Mountain High Rocky Mountain High School 1300 W. Swallow Rd. Fort Collins, Colo. 80526
Reading into
Emotional good-bye Family of former Rocky student mourn his loss by Ryan Nelson and Mary Willson Reporter and Center-In-Depth Editor
TOLERANCE
Photo Illustration by Tess Halac
When the word intolerance is brought into conversation, moments of history are often the first to be associated with it. The Klu Klux Klan. The Holocaust. Matthew Shepard. Few think of intolerance as prevalent in modern society, especially within the safe community of northern Colorado. However, only 7.8 miles away from Rocky, lays a nationally reknown church, famous for their controversial beliefs and their label as a hate group. The RM Highlighter went to investigate this church, and found that intolerance is alarmingly common. Intolerance isn’t just for the history books; it’s found within religion,institutions, media and politics.
Critical 2010 Election invokes strong feelings, student involvement by Tess Halac Editor-in-Chief
Heartless Republicans. Bleedingheart liberals. Conservative crackpots. Dirty hippies. While perhaps thoughtless insults, these all too common phrases are alarming examples of the polarity and tension between the Republicans and Democrats. “It (polarity) has happened,” Civics teacher Tom List said. “The media has a lot to do with it. They do an excellent job at whipping up a frenzy among voters, especially when the economy is bad.”
Adds senior Sam Field, “To some extent I would call political intolerance. I don’t think the average member is particularly intolerant, I think the two parties are villianizing each other. It makes it hard for anything to get done.” Field volunteers regularly at the Democratic office, working specifically for Congresswoman Betsy Markey’s campaign. Parties are not solely responsible for this intolerance that is so prevalent in this year’s election.
LaPorte Church of Christ revealed by Ryan Nelson and Charlie Anderson Reporters
“We believe that there exists today a people described in the Scripture as anti-Christs (…), who are children of darkness, hindering the Kingdom of Christ (…).” Thus concludes the Mission Statement of the LaPorte Church of Christ. Headed by nationally recognized pastor, Peter John Peters, the LaPorte Church of Christ is listed by the Southern Poverty Law Center as a hate group. According to the Church of Christ website, Scriptures for America, Pastor Peter John Peters has spoken on national radio and television talk shows throughout his lifetime. The Church of Christ has held weekly Sunday services since 1977 at its location a mere half hour away from Rocky Mountain. Jump to CHURCH, page A2
Jump to ELECTION, page A2
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Through the hallways of Blessed John XXIII Catholic Church, the walls were lined with pictures ranging from Zak Hain’s earliest days to the end of his courageous fight. Hain passed away on Sept. 8 at age 24, after complications from the brain trauma he suffered when he was sophomore at Rocky, eight years ago. At the front of the sanctuary, a single painting of Hain summed it all up; an expressive face with a goatee, slightly smiling with sun rays brightening up the painting, stemming from behind him, seeming to resemble a halo. Hain brought light to everyone he met, through all stages of his life. “He was the kind of guy that helped everyone, and didn’t judge anyone,” Zak’s brother, senior Sam Hain said. “He always put other people’s needs before his own.” Eight years ago, a tromboneplaying, StuCo-participating, guitarloving, radio-DJ-ing sophomore was riding his bike to Rocky, when a driver, blinded by the morning sun, didn’t see Zak crossing Horsetooth Road near Dunbar Street. He was put on life support for a few days at Poudre Valley Hospital, and then was in a coma for about six weeks. “There was a girl he used to date who came to the hospital when he was in a coma, and said that one night they were having an in-depth phone conversation and the question got brought up about ‘What would you do if you were put in a coma. Would you fight?’ Zak answered ‘I would fight like crazy to get through something like that.” Dick Hain, Zak’s father said. “That was kind of eerie, and just kind of reinforced what we had always known about him.” He then started the rehabilitation process at Craig Hospital, a hospital Jump to HAIN, page A2
imelight
Quoted directly: “I hate to assist in the work of whores. You come down here with a story that your editor wants you to run, and you put a twist on it to make yourselves look good. - Pastor Pete Peters, when asked by reporters about the beliefs of his church
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Rocky Mountain Highlighter
Hain from page A1 in Denver specializing in spinal cord injury and traumatic brain injuries. “He was able to hold out one finger for yes, and two for no; we were really encouraged,” Dick said. “He was actually able to get a ‘hi dad’ and a ‘hi mom’.We really thought he was coming around. Then, well who knows, there was a build of spinal fluid, and we don’t know if that directly lost it, but he lost a lot of that ►Hain progress.” Through the fight for Zak’s progress, everyone around him was encouraged through knowing that Zak’s intelligence was being fully utilized, because he was listening, and completely coherent. “I would joke with him and sometimes if I was funny enough I’d get a smile or a little chuckle,” Dick said with a joyful reminiscent tone in his voice. “If you pissed him off for some reason, like turned the TV to the wrong channel, he would make a fist with his right hand and wave it around; it was obvious he was right there.” Zak made an impact on everyone around him, no matter what stage of his life he was in. “Before the accident, he was only really there (at Rocky) for two weeks, and in just two weeks we had one of his teachers, Mrs. (Carol) Seemueller come to the hospital to say she was very touched by him,” Dick said. “He really made an impact in a short
Tessting the Waters
Tess Halac
A religious defense
amount of time, and all his friends really stood by him.” “I try to think about what he would have done in most situations, because he really did the right thing at all times because he didn’t care about being popular, so it wasn’t hard for him to always make the right choice,” Sam said. “He wanted everyone to just treat each other well, make the right decisions, make the best of their time and have fun with what they did.” Not only did Zak make a difference in others’ lives, but the people who stayed by Zak’s side made a significant difference in his life, as well. “Everything that the school community and the community at large did for Zak and our family was something that he recognized,” Dick said. “Some people are uncomfortable trying to communicate with someone that couldn’t communicate back, but he really did appreciate everything that was done.” “I would like to thank everyone at Rocky, Poudre School District and the Fort Collins community because it was amazing all the help we got. Everything that was done for him we appreciate, and thanks to all the teachers and everyone who supported Zak,” Dick said, with an emotional quiver in his voice. When Zak peacefully passed away, family and friends were sitting by his side. Zak’s mother, Cindy Hain looked out the window to see a rainbow. “It hadn’t been raining around us, but I guess it was raining somewhere that day,” Cindy said. “It was Zak’s way of saying goodbye.”
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News
October 8, 2010
am a journalist for three main reasons. One, RM Highlighter is awesome. Room 528 is a second home for me and the Highlighter has been a defining experience in my high school career. Two, it’s rewarding to be part of something bigger than myself, write something that all students read and are interested in.Three, I am by nature an extremely nosy person. Because of this nosiness, I decided to go do some ‘investigative journalism’ at the LaPorte Church of Christ, an infamous institution know for their racist beliefs and tendencies. After some serious begging and pleading, I convinced my mom to go to a service with me. The next weekend, my mom and I showed up in our Sunday best. We filed in nervously, though trying to appear cool and at ease. Some people in the congregation struck up an innocentconversation with us, their tone friendly and inviting. The service itself was very ordinary, just like a regular church service, albeit a honkier-tonkier version of one. It wasn’t until Pastor Peters delivered his message that anything appeared different. Even his speech appeared relatively tame, minus the expected angry tirades concerning public education and the “slander his church received.” I, of course, was immensely upset by his words. However, I knew what I was getting myself into, and was prepared for what he said. What I hadn’t prepared for was the reaction I got from
Church from page A1
Over the years, Pastheir forms. tor Peters and his conAccording to the sign, gregation have gained court officials seized the subtle notoriety as one property of the church, of Colorado’s racist ordering congregation to and hate organizations. “keep out.” Peters and his Groups such as the Anmembers “came in the ti-Defamation League name of Jesus Christ and (ADL) were outraged took it back.” by sermons written by When asked about the Peters, openly stating story behind this sign, Jews and homosexuals along with the nature and Charlie Anderson beliefs of the his church, to be species of the Under Investigation: The outside of the LaPorte Church of Peters responded; Anti-Christ. From a Christ. While small in local following, the church has a nasermon preached in “I hate to assist in the tional broadcast in which thousands tune into. September of 2007, work of whores. You come Peters identifies Jews; “One species of Antichrists, down here with a story that your editor wants you called Jews (...)” and homosexuals; “(…) the sin of to run, and you put a twist on it to make yourselves homosexuality.” look good. I’ll pray about it and get back to you Upon entering, members are greeted with a sign next week.” declaring the church’s defeat of a city-wide proAlongside heading the Church of Christ, Peters homosexual ordinance: is the director of an “international outreach minIn 1988 this church spoke out against and istry,” Scriptures for America. Peters describes the defeated proposed pro-homosexual city ordinance. organization as being dedicated to “proclaiming the Consequently, on Feb. 26, 1993, the state of true Gospel of Christ Jesus throughout the earth, Colorado who thought it was higher than our God and to revealing to Americans and the Western Jesus Christ and thought it had some jurisdiction Nations their true Biblical Identity.” Scriptures for on this church tried to seize this church building America distributes content through radio, internet because we refused to pay the state’s fine and sign broadcasts, CDs, DVDs and a monthly newsletter.
Election from page A1 Cries of intolerance have echoed from all parts of the nation. One example that currently holds heavy focus is the question of building a mosque near Ground Zero. Rocky students have mixed opinions on the ethics of this issue. For freshman Nada Elmikashfi, the issue hits particularly close to home. Elmikashfi is Muslim, and says she has felt intolerance and hostility toward her because of her religion and her hijab, a scarf worn over a girl’s hair. “People look at me like ‘oh no, she’s going to blow us up,’” Elmikashfi said. “There is no racial tolerance after Sept. 11. A lot of people think all Muslims are terrorists and all terrorists are Muslim. That’s exactly what’s going on at the mosque, too.” people I told my experiences to. ‘This is why I don’t like organized religion.’ ‘Organized religion sucks.’ ‘Religious people are jerks.’ Time and time again I received these comments. As a strong Christian, I was hurt and offended by these words. I totally agree with the general consensus that the LaPorte Church of Christ is out of line. I am aware that there are groups who hide behind bibles and churches in order to spread a message of hate. Over the summer, the Westboro Baptist Church visited CSU to protest against the Jewish and homosexual community. Less than a month ago, a Floridian pastor threatened to burn Korans on Sept.11. It is unfortunate that groups like these have to soil the Christian name. The truth is, the majority of religious institutions AREN’T like that, but unfortunately human tendency focuses on the bad, the crazy and the uncontrollable. Media isn’t going to cover a church serving supper to the homeless when there’s big, juicy stories to be covered instead. My plea for all of you is to not buy into this religious hate. Seeing the Christian faith only as a faction of judgemental, closeminded jerks is ignorant and just as judgemental. My advice is to turn off the news, do some of your own research, and get your own edjumucation. Tess Halac is a senior and Editor-in-Chief of The Rocky Mountain Highlighter.
A student who wished to remain anonymouse because of the sensitive matter disagrees with the mosque-building, but for separate reasons than most. “It’s not an issue of it (the mosque) being Muslim,”the source said. I don’t think any religion should be there; because of the events, buildings there should be unifying, and religion is divisve.” Despite the examples of this proclaimed tolerance, List stresses that the voter is most responsible for changing it. “When voters are angry, they are going to blame it on incumbence and the Tea Party is taking advantag,” List said. “I hope that people willl do their own research and decide for themselves and on election day the rational electorate will show up.”
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News
October 8, 2010
Bearing the weight
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Rocky Mountain Highlighter
Heavy backpacks produce strain, unhealthy consequences for students by Cassa Niedringhaus Features Editor
Today’s schools are literally putting pressure on students with heavy textbooks. The heavy weight of backpacks combined with the improper use of backpacks causes many teens to suffer from back pain and other health issues. As teens carry overloaded backpacks, their spine compresses and they lean forward in order to compensate for the heavy load on their back. This in turn can cause ligament damage, muscle damage, joint damage, and a multitude of other injuries and pain. “It has been identified as a national problem,” said Dr. George Valley, of Family Health Care of the Rockies. “(There has been) increased medical awareness in the past couple of years.” The problem of heavy backpacks may stem from the textbooks that teens carry. Textbooks are often hardcover in order to last a large amount of years, which makes them much heavier. Also, more textbooks include large graphics and cover large amounts of subject area. Often, students carry more than one of these large textbooks and the weight of their backpack quickly adds up.
“(I have textbooks) for all of my classes except for Student Council,” junior Kelli Lynch said. “Last year, especially, I had issues with my sternum; it would pop randomly. And then I also have issues with back soreness. Then also my shoulders have issues where I feel like they need to pop.” Lynch has seen a doctor for the unhealthy ramifications of her heavy backpack. While they are an issue during the school year, the symptoms lighten during the summer. “That’s stuff that I have observed,” Lynch said. “Especially over the summer, most or all of that (pain) will go away. And then when I start school again and start carrying my around my backpack it starts again.” According to kidshealth.org, students should consider changing their habits in order to help solve back problems related to their backpacks. Both straps should be worn evenly to distribute weight and the straps should not hang loose. Purses and other bags don’t distribute the weight as well as backpacks. If possible, students should look for opportunities to leave the textbooks they are not using in their lockers or cars in order to reduce the weight they carry. Teachers can consider online text-
The RM Highlighter randomly tested 30 Rocky students after school to see how much weight they were carrying in their backpacks. ►Average student weight: 133.4 lbs. ►Average backpack weight: 15.3 lbs. ►Average percent of body weight carried by student: 11.5%. books, a class set of textbooks, and reducing homework from the textbook so that students do not need to take it home every night in order to reduce the load that students have to carry. As textbooks begin moving over to an online format, some of the pressure on students’ backs will be relieved. Science teacher Matt Nigro has a set
of class books and a set of books for students to take home. While he doesn’t use online textbooks, he does assign online quizzes and homework. “I have found that if I assign homework out of the book, I don’t get nearly as much response from students,” science teacher Matt Nigro said. “Students have grown up, this generation has grown up, with computers. They are very savvy, computer savvy. It may be more natural for you guys (teens) to do stuff on the computer than it is in the book.” When teachers have students leave their books at home and keep a class set for use during school, the teachers are not only helping to reduce the load on students’ backs, they are also working to protect the books. “I tell you, these books are in great shape and we lose very, very few of them,” Nigro said.
Rocky Wraps ready to hit scene by Tess Halac Editor-in-Chief
There’s one thing all high schoolers have in common – the love of food. Fortunatly, Rocky is extremely accomodating in this respect; an open campus lunch, the Rock Stop and Food Fest are all options available for students to get their daily fill. Now, the ACE course and Consumer Concepts Course during are working together to provide another option selling wraps – appropriately named Rocky Wraps. “I was working with a student in my Consumer Concepts class and he just wasn’t understanding it,” Integrated Services teacher John Berg said on how they got the idea. “We thought if we had a more hands-on approach to learning the material, it would be more effective.” The Rock Stop was in danger of closing last year because of not complying with federal regulations regarding nutrition. If a school is not following the regulations mandated by the government, it can lose the money given to them for free and reduced lunch programs. The Rock Stop was able to fight off this potential problem and continue its
looking to participate in the new program by combining it with his Eagle Scout project. Marvin’s goal is to create handicap-accesbile raised garden beds in the fenced-in land plot on the west side of Rocky. “I used to sit there (by the plot) at lunch and wonder what it’s for,”Marvin said. “I wanted it to be a community garden, but then I met with Lopez and we decided Integrated Services Ryan Nelson could use a garden. It gives them Wrappin’ it up: Senior Connor Vanvorous puts together another activity to do during the a wrap during a trial run. The class is starting a business day, and for the general public, in which they sell wrapts to students and teachers in a it’s going to look a lot nicer.” partnership agreement with Food Service. Besides the practical monbusiness. This year, the two classes are etary benefits the program will looking to team up with Food Service create, it’s sure to benefit the students and boost their numbers. as well. “It’s a win-win situation,”said Inte“Statistically, they (researchers) have grated Services teacher Kim Nigro, who found out that if students have paid is a co-sponsor of the program. “The employment before they leave high Rock Stop can stay open, and we create school, they are more likely to continue a partnership with Food Service to help a paid job.” keep their numbers up.” Adds principal Tom Lopez, “We Currently, the classes are doing test know they (the students) are going to runs and soon will be selling a variety of do a great job. We’re hoping that they kinds of wraps from a cart in the cafete- will get a relevant, hands-on overall ria. Additionally, senior Carl Marvin is good experience from this.”
Local radio station to hold private concert Radio 96.1 KISS FM is once again hosting a concert for one high school in Colorado. One must log onto Kiss FM and go to the Never Text and Drive page. Once on this site, one must In select their school and enter their e-mail address to pledge to never text and drive. The school with the most people to pledge will win a free acoustic concert by We the Kings. Each voter may only vote once, but parents, friends and anyone else can vote and select a school they wish for their vote to count towards. Trevor Merrill
We pronounce you king and queen
Brief
Cassa Niedringhaus
Taking center stage: The Homecoming royalty sit upon their thrones during the assembly on Oct. 1. Royalty were freshmen Natalie Graves and Jordan Williams, sophomores Molly Reger and Austen Allen, juniors Megan Loury and Jesse Janzen, and seniors Molly Mogorit and Marshall Anderson.
Worth a thousand words: Tyler Padia holds a picture of his late brother Austin. Austin was going to be a freshman.
Would-be freshman dies following 2nd heart transplant by John Califf Reporter
After 14 years of fighting would-be freshman Austin Lee Padia passed away due to heart complications. Those who knew Padia knew that he loved school and football, especially the Broncos. He had a loving family who helped him through everyday of his sickness leading up to his passing and friends who cared as well “He was always positive,” said freshman Cammie Palomino, who had a locker near Padia’s at Webber Middle School. “He was always nice to everyone and he always seemed very happy”. Padia was born without a right ventricle in his heart, which helps to pump blood and regulate it throughout the body. Because of this, he had his first heart transplant Aug. 29, 1995. After the first transplant, Padia lived a happy and healthy life until he was almost 15 years old. June 7, 2010, was the dreaded day his heart failed. However, being faced with this Padia still didn’t give up. “I miss my brother very much,” said senior Tyler Padia, who was Austin’s oldest brother. “It was rough. Everyone dealt with the passing in their own way.” Austin was his own person and had a different unique style and remained very strong, and confidently took everything as it came his way. His family hopes that other Rocky students can learn from Austin’s life to be your own person. “Remember that it could be worse,” Tyler said. “All you have to do is keeping moving forward, because life could easily end anytime.”
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October 8, 2010
Rocky Mountain Highlighter
Self-actualizing
It’s another school year and we’re already almost done with first quarter. Ramsey Where Nicholas do you stand mentally, physically, and self-consciously? Let’s take a look at self actualizing and the eight steps that everyone can make to benefit our own social and mental health. Actualization is the full and complete comprehension of one’s own existence. The first step towards achieving this personal ambition is to find something worthwhile, experience it to the best of your ability, and let it absorb you completely. This concentration on such an experience can give one a sense of familiarity with the vivid side of their personal qualities and characteristics. The second step in this development is noticing the ongoing process of choosing between security and taking risks. We as human beings often select security out of fear and need for defense. Every now and then, it is a good idea to take a healthy risk, for the sake of improvement and growth. Make the choice to rake a risk multiple times a day. Step three in the self-actualization process: do not conform to society. Shut out everything that can steer your thoughts and feelings, allowing your self experiences to guide your actual opinions. Let the real you come into sight and become known with no fear of what anybody thinks. Step four involves sincerity in recognizing one’s own individual flaws. Responsibility can only be found through complete honesty with one’s self. Look at yourself, and be absolutely honest. Responsibility is a very big part of self actualizing. The fifth step is merely to not ignore your tastes and opinions. One must be prepared to be detested and unpopular, or they will forever be hidden from their own reality. No matter what your goals and dreams might be, do not disregard them because of the opinions of others. In step six, use your intelligence and work hard to achieve whatever it is you want to do, no matter how irrelevant it might seem. Step seven- strive to reach your peak intellectual potential and learn what you are really good at. The eighth and final step of the self actualization process is to completely find yourself and become one with your own existence. Find who you are, what you are, the things you like and dislike, the correct choices to make for your mental and physical health, and what path to take on the journey to happiness. You must identify your weaknesses, and find the courage to give them up. Take a moment to reflect upon these ideas and think outside of the box. You may be surprised to find yourself enlightened, and intellectually stimulated. This idea was originally developed by Abraham Maslow, and is an excellent guideline for going about life.
Ramin’ the Truth
Sarah Hite
It’s time to build a PSD pool
Staff Editorial ►A district pool should be built for the fouryear high schools of Fort Collins.
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ulberry Pool, along with other various Fort Collins recreation centers, are at risk of closure starting Jan. 1, 2011, due to a $5.4 million city revenue shortfall of this year. The 2011-12 city budget calls for shutting down Mulberry Pool as well as dropping hours and employment at the Senior Center, the Gardens on Spring Creek and The Farm at Lee Martinez Park. Mulberry pool is currently used for the swimming practices and meets of both Rocky and Poudre. If the pool ends up closing, all four schools will be forced to cram their practice and meet schedules into EPIC. The City of Fort Collins has the Rocky and Poudre swim teams in a stressful position due to the potential decisions of the city’s budget cuts.
The Rocky Mountain Highlighter is published nine times during the school year by the newspaper staff of Rocky Mountain High School/ 1300 W. Swallow Rd./Fort Collins, CO 80526. Contact Rocky Mountain Highlighter staff members at 970-488-7090 or 970-488-7091 for advertising information. Also the Rocky Mountain Highlighter staff is in Room 528, during 4th period. Editor-in-Chief Tess Halac Editorial Editor Ramsey Nicholas Sports Editor Calvin Jouard Features Editor Cassa Niedringhaus National Scholastic Press Association National Critique
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Rocky Mountain
Center In-Depth Editor Mary Willson Limelight Editor Chloe Evans Advertising Manager Jake Mohr
Staff Fahey Zink Charlie Anderson John Califf Trevor Merrill Regan Miller Geneva Mueller Ryan Nelson Doug Watterson Fahey Zink
The question that longs for an answer is, quite simply, why hasn’t a pool for the school district been built? With a district pool, high school swimming teams would not have to pay the fees to use the community pools, EPIC and Mulberry. Every year, the school district pays $25,000 for the swim team to be able to use Mulberry Pool as a place to practice. If the school district were to step up and make the financial leap to build one pool for all the high schools combined, money could be saved in the long run. On average, the estimated cost of building a new pool would be about $2-3 million. If the district is paying $25,000 per year, the cost of the pool would be equal to 80 years of paying for community pool use. If a pool had been built 20 years ago, we
ighlighter Artists Sarah Hite Loren DeWeese Adviser Stephen Wahlfeldt
would already be a fourth of the way to meeting this quota. If the budget cut ends up taking place, the swim team will be forced to transfer their swim practices to EPIC, which will be shared with Fossil, Collins, and Poudre. Not only will all four high schools be crammed into one pool, but practically every swim club in Fort Collins will be using EPIC. It will be interesting to see how these plans play out, and if the squeeze will even work for all four schools. It’s time for the district to take a stand and build a pool for the schools, even if it requires a tight squeeze in the district’s athletic budget. Unless a downfall wants to be seen for the high school swimmers of Fort Collins, action must be taken in improving the pool system in our town.
RM Highlighter editorial policy
The Rocky Mountain Highlighter is a student news publication which strives to report school and community events with truth, accuracy, objectivity, and clarity. The RM Highlighter will also comment on issues of interest to its readers. The purposes of this publication are to report the news to the Rocky Mountain High School community, to provide the school community with a public forum for thoughtful discussion and debate, and to provide students on the newspaper staff with practical journalism experience. In order to make the RM Highlighter as professional a publication as possible, important legal and ethical guidelines will be followed. Senate Bill 90-99, enacted by the Colorado General Assembly during the 1990 legislative session, declares that “students of the public schools shall have the right to exercise freedom of speech and the press.” (Colo. Rev. Stat. Sec. 22-1-120) We, the staff of the RM Highlighter, are prohibited by law from publishing certain materials. We will respect these laws. No material which is libelous, encourages illegal acts, or causes material and substantial disruption to school activities will be published. Expressions which are obscene will not be printed. Profanity will not be printed unless it is considered absolutely necessary by the RM Highlighter editorial board to express the views of the writer or quoted person. Expression which is false “as to any person who is not a public figure or involved in a matter of public concern” will not be printed. “Expressions which are in violation of lawful school regulations designed to control gangs” will not be printed. In the event of a potential controversial item, the editorial board —consisting of all the editors, the advertising manager, and the adviser —will meet to discuss the merits of the item and then decide whether or not to print the item. Coverage of deaths which occur within the Rocky community will be carefully considered by the editorial board. Natural or accidental deaths will be reported for clarifications of death and will contain a memorial. Except in extreme circumstances, suicides will not be covered to reduce glorification of such acts. In general, the RM Highlighter observes the guidelines presented in the “Code of Ethics” of the Society of Pro-
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Ramsey Nicholas is a junior and Editorial editor for the Rocky Mountain Highlighter.
fessional Journalists. The RM Highlighter will not allow source review prior to publication, unless there is a clarification issue. Source anonymity will be granted only after careful consideration by the editor, with the editor reserving the right to make the final decision. Staff editorials shall be presented logically and will represent the views of the majority of the staff. Editorial criticism, of either individuals or groups, will be based on fact and will be constructive. Guest editorial space, the “Open Forum,” is available to anyone in the Rocky community, including students, parents, faculty, and administrators. Anyone interested in writing in the “Open Forum” should contact the editor-in-chief or the adviser, Stephen Wahlfeldt. Letters to the editor are welcome. They should be signed, and a home phone number should be included. The writer’s name may be withheld upon request, provided the editor agrees that the reasons for withholding a name are valid and compelling. Try to limit letters to 300 words and place them in one of the “Letters to the Editor” boxes, located in the Media Center and the Main Office, or give them to a RM Highlighter staff member, RM Highlighter adviser Stephen Wahlfeldt, or drop them by the RM Highlighter room, Room 528, during 4th period. Letters may also be mailed to the Rocky Mountain Highlighter, Rocky Mountain High School, 1300 W. Swallow Rd., Fort Collins, CO 80526. To talk with anyone on the RM Highlighter staff, phone (970) 488-7090. Columnists express their own views and not necessarily those of the RM Highlighter staff. No expression made by students of the Rocky Mountain Highlighter shall be considered an expression of school board or Rocky Mountain High School policy. Furthermore, Poudre School District and its employees are immune from any civil or criminal action based on any expression made or published by the students. All advertisement is welcome. To place an ad, contact RM Highlighter advertising managers at (970) 488-7091. The RM Highlighter, however, reserves the right to refuse advertising which the staff considers inappropriate for our audience. The RM Highlighter is a member of the ASNE/MCT Campus High School Newspaper Service, and some material is courtesy of that service. The Rocky Mountain Highlighter reserves the right to edit anything it publishes. CHSPA Newspaper Sweepstakes
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Editorial Photo Poll What do you think the Pledge of Allegiance stands for? Katie Nance, sophomore
“It says, this is our country and we are proud of it!”
Satini Liufau, teacher
“I am the only person who knows the true meaning of the Pledge.”
Katherine Rosecrance, junior
“I think the Pledge of Allegience stands for patriotism.”
Spencer Sholander, senior
“It’s really blind patriotism, and people recite the words without knowing the meaning.”
Ben Spoliansky, sophomore
October 8, 2010
Rocky Mountain Highlighter
Back in school: Pledge of Allegiance
Patriotic value in recitation
ing the pledge in school. The original pledge which was written in 1892 by Francis Bellamy says “I pledge allegiance to my Flag and (to*) the Republic for which it stands, one nation, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all.” These 23 words are what our country stands for- unity. The extra lines “my Flag, to ‘the Flag of the United States of America” were added years later and not supported by the original author. Even later, the line “under God” was added, which completely changes the meaning of the pledge in a negative way. The original words “justice and liberty for all” is a promise that our country is a free country, and everyone deserves those rights.
America is a melting pot of all different ethnic backgrounds, cultures, and oh yeah- religions. Before 1954, the Pledge of Allegiance was a simple patriotic oath, but since “under God” was added, the message has been skewed. The words “under God” create a completely demoralizing tone for anyone living in America who doesn’t live under the Christian religion, or believe in the Christian God; also the fact that the phrase was added is completely controversial and has lead to students opting out of recit-
In no way should those extra lines, which were added against the authors will, have the power to morph the positive light that should be shed on this imperative piece of literature in American history. In 1954 the Congress added the words “under God”, which many argue creates a public prayer and blurs the line of the separation of government and religion which is one of the main beliefs of American democracy- and one of the aspects that makes the American government unique and safe for all members. It is an ironic addition to an originally very accepting text. Diving into the controversy of whether the pledge should be said in schools- the option
should be given. Just like we are taught in American Governmentwe all have choices. We can vote if we choose to. We can support whatever and whomever we want. And the most applicable of all- we can say whatever we want. Students have the right not to say the Pledge—which is a complete illustration of what the pledge is all about, the freedom Americans have. For this reason, the original Pledge of Allegiance should be supported. It should be supported because the 55 founding fathers founded the country on merely that- the choices we have to say something, or opt out; to have a voice, or to not have a voice. Mary Willson
Pro Con
A meaning misunderstood
Pledge (noun) - a solemn promise to do or refrain from doing something. Therefore, to pledge allegiance is to devote oneself unconditionally to a common cause. In the case of the Pledge of Allegiance the thing being idolized is the flag, representative of the United States of America. Most likely, the majority of people who conform to the convention of saying the pledge do not understand where it came from, what it means, or what they are allying themselves to. The Pledge was originally published in 1892. However, in 1954, President Eisenhower suggested the addition of the words “under God,” in response to the communist threats. This was the final change made to the pledge that many say nowadays. As many may not be aware, this was a time in history when nationalism and ethnocentrism were becoming commonplace in order to protect the United States from the supposed
Sarah Hite
communist threats. Although this may have been an acceptable practice at the time, the United States now prides itself in being a country that is accepting of all beliefs. Communism is no longer thought to be a valid threat in current affairs, however the same pledge intended to gander support for America is recited by students and teachers classroom-wide, schoolwide, and even nationally, with the intention of uniting the country. As goes the cliché, history repeats itself; the pledge can very likely still bring about the ideal of ethnocentrism. The United States prides itself in being a country of tolerance whether it is in regards to other countries, other languages, other opinions or other religions; however, the line “under God,” in the pledge makes this hard to believe. The capitaliza-
tion of the word God has connotations of the strictly Christian deity. It is hard to believe that everyone who has ever said the pledge in is a member of the Christian faith. The inclusion of this line makes the pledge close-minded and inapplicable to many citizens of the United States. If it is believed that a promise is something that should be honored above all, then by reciting the pledge, one creates an unbreakable bond between themselves and the United States. It can be said with certainty that every person who says the pledge does not intend to devote their life to serving the United States. Allegiance is defined as the loyalty of a citizen to its government. Many people who are in high school do not even hold an interest in government, let alone agree with all their decisions. Therefore, a school is not
A quick look at diversity
Different; a word that is often used, but most times when used, can be misinterpreted for diversity. For some, it could be used as weird, abnormal, or crazy. To me, diversity speaks louder than differences. Someone diverse is bold, confident, and comfortable with themselves. When I see someone wearing different clothes, odd hats, strange make-up or anything
Rough Draft John Califf else that’s different, I am instantly refreshed. These people’s choices show me that that
the proper place for the Pledge to be spoken. On a more basic level, the Pledge should be kept out of schools because often times it is not free-will. It would be an extreme challenge to find a person who went through the public school system who did not know every single word of the Pledge of Allegiance. In elementary schools, the Pledge is recited by all students before they are even old enough to understand what they are pledging themselves to. Many students feel pressured to recite the Pledge because everyone else is doing it. The truth of the matter is that if people knew more about the pledge, less and less people would be saying it. Geneva Mueller
person is his or her own person, which is definitely something to strive for. I’m sure when people see others walking around on the street they automatically think the worst of their character withouth even getting to know them. Imagining how much grief any person gets over their differences makes me sick. I can’t persuade anyone to think oth-
erwise, but in my eyes I accept anyone who is bold and confident enough to break the mold of what we consider normal. There is no such thing as normality in diversity and the words “abnormal” and “weird” don’t mean anything. Where do you fit in this whole scheme of things? John Califf is a senior and a reporter for the RM Highlighter.
schedules built by a computer and reviewed by a counselor. A counselor’s job is to ensure you have the classes needed to graduate and that you are prepared for your educational goals after high school. At the beginning of a school year, our main function is to enroll and build schedules for our new students and to have ALL students in classes on day one. The editorial staff’s recommendation of two days for add/drop in conjunction with a freshmen orientation day is an idea we are
considering. However, this may not decrease the long lines. Remember, as a student, it is your responsibility to choose wisely and make the best choice up front. It’s a very time intensive process and with six counselors and over 2000 students there may be lines. We keep our office open until every student has had the chance to meet with a counselor.
Letter to the Editor: Add/Drop policy part of real world
“It stands for the foundations of America. Go world peace!”
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The Rocky Mountain Highlighter recently had an editorial about the drop/add process. As a counselor at Rocky, I am very interested in what students have to say on this topic. It reminded me of a recent visit I made to Kohls. I entered the store laden with the items that didn’t fit or that I decided I didn’t want. I found a very long line. Why do I have to wait? Why can’t I just get what I need and leave?
Because that is not the way it works in the world. Lines are a part of life. We give students at Rocky more schedule choice opportunities than almost any high school or college in the state. Juniors get to build their schedules first; after all we need to ensure they have the classes needed to graduate. A math formula is used to determine whose schedule is hardest to build and those students go first. Next the sophomores build, then the freshmen. The incoming group who is currently in 8th grade has their
Counselor Susan Takahashi and the Rocky counseling department
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Rocky Mountain Highlighter
sports
October 8, 2010
Ranked boys’ soccer team playing all opponents tough by Calvin Jouard Sports Editor
Sitting atop the world is pretty good. Free food, nice houses and beautiful vacations are some of the things that can accompany this honor. While the Rocky boys’ soccer team may not have all of the perks of “sitting on top of the world,” they do have the title. So far this season, the boys’ soccer team is the only team in any sport from Rocky to break into the elite ranks in the state. As of Sept. 22, the team is rated as the 2nd best team in the state by the Denver Post. There are many contributing factors to the early success of the team. “I think this team has more fight in them than in years past, which counts for a lot,” head coach Daniel Ibanez said. Senior midfielder Andrew Fenn added that the team seemed to be
more balanced than in years past. This is due in part to the participation of the players on a club team in the offseason. This helped propel Rocky to the upper echelon of boys’ soccer in the state. Rocky jumped out to a 3-0 record by beating Chaparral, Niwot and Eaglecrest, outscoring their opponents by a combined score of 5-1. The Denver Post had Rocky at No. 1 in the state before they suffered a lost to Bear Creek by a score of 2-1. The team rebounded with strong wins over Greeley West (a score of 11-2) and Monarch (a margin of 7-0), securing the No. 2 spot in the state. But Ibanez isn’t one to get too excited about the team’s ranking. “The paper doesn’t know who’s who. The only ranking that matters is the ranking after the last week of the season,” Ibanez said. It’s understandable why Ibanez ignores the rankings and preaches the same to his team; the importance of being No. 1 might’ve have
gone to the players’ heads. It may have also contributed to the loss at Bear Creek. “Don’t let it (ranking) get to your head,” Wegher said, on his mentality on the field. “I think we let it get to our heads when we were number one.” “It’s kind of a relief when you lose when you’re No. 1 because teams try that much harder to knock you off,” Fenn said. Ibanez knows what the team needs to work on, knowing full well that the team could be even better than it already is. “We need to work on consistency, and focus on becoming a better squad. But, I think this team has lots of potential.” In fact, the idea of barely getting into the playoffs appeals more to Ibanez than the team coming in with a target on its back. “Our league has never had respect around the state. I’d rather be the underdog and sneak into the playoffs anyway.”
Football LoboLights ►RECORD: 0-5 ►RECENTLY: Heartbreaking 38-35 Homecoming game loss to cross-town rival Fossil Ridge on Oct. 1 on a last-second field goal. It was Fossil’s first-ever victory over a 5A opponent. ►WHO’S HOT: Lobo senior Brode McDonald quarterback threw for 182 yards and rushed for another 112 in the loss to Fossil. ►QUOTE ME: “We have donde enough talking (about winning) and it’s time for us to play four quarters of smashmouth football.”-Junior center Lucas Lovell. ►NOTE: The Lobos have not won since Oct. 23 of 2009 when they blanked Mountain Range High School, 23-0. ►UPCOMING: The Lobos host 2-3 Horizon High School tonight at 7 p.m.
Cassa Niedringhaus
A physical game: Eric O’Connor (white) battles a Mountain Range High School defender during a game on Sept. 16. The Lobos won the game by a score of 7-1.
Concussions from page A8
Cassa Niedringhaus
Closing in: Defender Ty Traufield (left) tackles Fossil wide receiver Austin Roe. Rocky lost the game in dramatic fashion, 35-38.
Softball LoboLights ►RECORD: 7-10 ►RECENTLY: Suffered a hard 8-2 loss to Legacy on Oct. 2 in a game that was a closer than what the score showed. ►WHO’S HOT: Bri VanSickle has pitched well all season and Dani Hailey has caught equally well for the Lobos. ►QUOTE ME: “Our record might not be great but we’ve improved since the beginning of the season.”-Junior first basemen Emily Jacomet ►NOTE: Vansickle has an ERA of 1.17. ►UPCOMING: The Lobos concluded their season yesterday in Boulder against Boulder High.
Volleyball LoboLights ►RECORD: 11-2 ►RECENTLY: Played at Horizon on and won dominantly in three sets ►WHO’S HOT: Kaitlind Bestgen is threat at the net and Amelia Morgna possess good court awareness. ►QUOTE ME: “Our strength of playing together helped us beat Collins and getting us excited for Fossil and the postseason” ►NOTE: The lady Lobos are riding a five game win streak. ►UPCOMING: Rocky will visit a struggling Poudre team on Oct. 11, and will battle Fossil Oct. 19 in what could decide the conference champion.
Tennis LoboLights ►TEAM RECORD: 5-3 ►RECENTLY: Finished 3rd in conference play. ►WHO’S HOT: Justin Schnell is literally hot, and can serve over 100 mph. ►QUOTE ME: “This year we are more of a team and are going to make things happen”Senior No. 3 doubles player Connor McDonald. ►NOTE: No. 1 singles player Justin Schnell went 4-2 this season during regular season play. ►UPCOMING: State tournament Oct. 14-16.
to play. His symptoms—memory loss, loss of consciousness, and confusion—are some of the main symptoms experienced by those who have suffered a concussion. And Fergen’s case is not a rare one. There have been numerous concussions documented already this year. A more serious discussion is sparked by Fergen’s injury— are concussions becoming a more frequent occurrence in Rocky sports? It sure seems like it. According to Shonny Vander Vliet, head athletic trainer at Rocky, four athletes from sports other than football have also suffered concussions. This is in addition to the number of concussions suffered by players on the football team. Football sees the most concussions out of other sports, said Vander Vliet. Senior Mark Travers, junior Fletcher Ouren and sophomore Austin Bengford have added to the mounting number of concussions on the football team. “We’ve had a handful of them (concussions) this year; there’s no two ways around it,” added head football coach Mark Brook. “But I don’t think there’s been a specific reason. The hit on Ryan (Fergen) was just one of those hits, and you hate to see it happen.” When looking at the overall athletic picture at Rocky, Vander Vliet maintains that this year isn’t any different than previous years. “I honestly don’t think we’ve had any more concussions than we’ve had in the past. People may be more aware though because of media coverage and CHSAA rulings,” Vander Vliet said. According to Vander Vliet, the current standard is that after receiving a concussion, one must be cleared by an M.D., P.A., N.P., or D.O. before returning to play. “Shonny (Vander Vliet) asked me a lot of questions about my symptoms and I couldn’t take the
“” Mark Brook, football coach
It doesn’t matter if you’re a starter or a freshman, if you have a concussion, there is a step by step process that we take very seriously.
concussion test until I said ‘no’ to all of them,” said Fergen. The concussions test is the next step in the process of returning to play, and is taken before the athlete begins the season in order to set a baseline. After the athlete receives a concussion, they take the test, and must past three out of the four areas. The test focuses on memory, reaction time, and concentration. Concussions tests raise an additional question: are athletes returning to play too early? “It doesn’t matter if you’re a starter or a freshman, if you have a concussion, there is a step by step process that we take very seriously,” Brook said. “I truly think we do our best to take care of our kids,” Vander Vliet added. “We don’t make it a big deal when someone gets a concussion. We tell them we’re going to work through this.” Saying that concussions are becoming an everyday occurrence, and that athletes are returning to play too early is debatable. But one thing is for sure. Concussions are impacting teams, especially football. “I think they’ve had a significant impact on the team. You hate to see kids miss out, like Ryan (Fergen) and Mark (Travers),” said Brook. “It’s tough to see Mark sit out for some of his senior year. But other guys just have to step up. And the number of kids involved in your program is important.”
sports
October 8, 2010
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Rocky Mountain Highlighter
Popular balancing act
Sport of slacklining finding way into recreation for teens by Doug Watterson Reporter
When facing a new challenge the first steps come with uncertainty and risk. But for those who walk the line the other side holds great reward. This is especially true with one of the fastest growing and popular balancing Recreational sports in the world, slacklining. Balancing has always been a part of athletics spanning from tightrope walking to the balancing beam in gymnastics. Slacklining has numerous influences but it was during the middle of the 20th century that these ideas culminated in Yosemite Valley, the center of rock climbing. Climbers residing in Camp Four, a popular camp site in the park, were found walking hand rails, parking chains, and on ropes strung between the trees during their down time from climbing. With great improvement to balance and core strength, it caught on fast among the climbers of Yosemite Valley. It was in the late 1970s that the sports’ popularity really took off in the area. Everyone from local outdoor enthusiasts to visitors could be seen attempting to balance on the ropes around the camp. Adam Grosowski, Jeff Ellington, Chongo Tucker, Scott
Balcom, and Darrin Carter had the biggest influence on the sport’s develoment. The sport today continues to grow and develop as new limits are pushed and records broken. With its popularity skyrocketing, it is no surprise numerous locals and Rocky students are just getting into the sport. “It has really taken off recently,” junior Kyle Wray said. Many high school students are
Gymnastics LoboLights
Cross Country LoboLights
Golf LoboLights
►RECORD: Has not won a dual meet. ►RECENTLY: Placed 6th out of 14 at Broomfield Invitational. ►WHO’S HOT: Kelsey Gibbs placed 4th on the beam last Saturday, Oct. 2. ►QUOTE ME: “Our team is working very hard to qualify for state this year.”-Senior Sammy Boyce ►UPCOMING: Saturday, Oct. 9 at the Sterling Invitational.
►RECENTLY: The girls ran to a 5th place finish at the Sweetheart Invitational while the boys also placed 5th at the John Martin Invite. ►WHO’S HOT: Shayla Peel broke into the top 20 at the Sweetheart Invitational with a 15th place finish. ►QUOTE ME: The team is doing really well this year. It’s the hardest working team I’ve been on in my three years here.”-Senior Shayla Peel ►NOTE: The team placed 11th at the Chatfield Challenge on Sept. 21. ►UPCOMING: The team will run a fast course today at Palmato.
►RECENTLY: Team finished 6th out of eight teams at Regionals. ►WHO’S HOT: Junior Brady Stalnaker is the only player that qualified for state. He placed 74th at state, and shot 80 for a great second round. ►QUOTE ME: “We didn’t do as well as we thought we could have, but we have high hopes for next season.”-Junior Shane Clark ►NOTE: The team is very young, with only three players graduating this year. ►UPCOMING:
sports
Mulberry from page A8
practice time, so two schools would practice at the same time.” Martin was part of the building committee for the new Fort Collins, as well as Fossil Ridge. The two schools were originally planned to have pools built, but the building costs went over budget for both schools and the plan to build a school pool was disbanded. Not only would the cost to
Epic from page A8
An afternoon commute to Loveland could pose problems for the swimmers, as well. The extra time would take up much of the evening, giving the athletes little time for academics. Practice times could also be limited, a problem that the team has not had in the past with Mulberry always available for
Doug Watterson
Slacking off: Zack Duckworth, above, slacklines at Rolland Moore Park. Slacklining is an up-and-coming alternativ sport.
looking for something new, and slacklining provides the perfect opportunity. “It’s very challenging,” said Wray. “It’s not easy but relaxing at the same time.” For many slackliners it is hard to pinpoint why they enjoy walking across a line. “You don’t know why you get back on after falling so much but you just do,” says Wray. For junior Zach Duckworth
build a pool be close to $2.1 million, but the cost of maintenance associated with a pool is another matter. On average, a pool can cost up to $190,000 in maintenance fees per year. The City of Fort Collins was at one point contacted for help in maintaining a pool, but the school district’s proposal was declined. The issue that remains is where the non-participating schools will practice when home swim meets are held at EPIC. Previously,
these schools would have moved their practices over to Mulberry. With the closure, stress is created on practice and meet times for the district swim teams. The teams will likely have to lose a practice day should Mulberry close. Currently, there are no future plans for the school district building a pool. The Rocky swim teams will officially be transferring their practices to EPIC starting Jan. 1 if the budget cut takes place.
the school to use. The current schedule does not limit swimmers opportunity to practice. “We get plenty of time in the pool with the schedule we have,” junior Abby Ney said. The Mulberry closure also sparks the question of why a school pool was never built. “I don’t think other schools with a pool have an advantage over us, but it definitely makes
it easier for them,” junior Ryan Brauch said. Rocky faces uncertainty in the future with no school pool or city pool at their disposal, but it’s not going to stop the swimmers. As long as they are able to get into a pool the athletes are confident that they will get the practice they need. “Practice is practice, no matter where you’re at,” Brauch said.
the reason was simple. “It became an addiction,” Duckworth said. “I just had to keep doing it.” Slacklining remains mainly a recreational sport, since it still hasn’t taken off yet. “It’s a social event,” Wray said. “I don’t see it as a competitive sport right now. I see it staying as a recreational sport.” Even with the world’s best slackliner in American Andy
Lewis being from the states, competitive slacklining remains predominantly in Europe. The world championships are held in Munich, Germany. But there are still opportunities for competitive slackliners in the states. “I’m in a contest right now for a sponsorship from Gibbon Slacklines,” Duckworth said. “But it’s a lot bigger in Europe.” Like all sports there is risk involved when trying something new and pushing the limits, something Duckworth learned early on. “The first time I tried it I thought if you just keep running you’d eventually make it across,” he said. “But I was wrong and ended up slicing the inside of my arm.” “There is always a risk of racking yourself,” sophomore Grant Rotman added. Slacklining’s future holds many uncertainties with some slackliners envisioning it as just a recreational sport and others, such as Rotman, who believe it will become main stream with similarities to skating and the X Games. Just like any sport, slacklining involves athletes who want to push their own limits and redefine what is possible. Duckworth has plenty of ideas, including slacklining between two football goal posts and highlining between Horsetooth Rock,” Duckworth said. Slacklining is certainly a sport for those who don’t mind walking the line. Practice makes perfect: Brady Stalnaker practices his putting at Collindale Golf Course. Stalnaker was the only player for the Lobos to qualify for state.
Field Hockey LoboLights
Tess Halac
►RECORD: 4-6 ►RECENTLY: In a recent match against Cherry Creek, the Lobos lost 2-1”. ►WHO’S HOT: Raychl Reger sticks handles like none other. ►QUOTE ME: “We have a strong team, just trouble getting the ball in the goal.”-Junior Meghan Loury. ►NOTE: Meghan Braun leads the team in points with 4 (3 goals,1 assist).
Need Help Help With Your Chemistry Need ChemistryClass? Class? Want to to “Ace” that AP Chem. Class? Want Chem Exam? SAT Subject Test Preparation Call Professional Tutoring Available Over 10 Years Experience 970-493-5220 jz1002001@yahoo.com
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Rocky Mountain Highlighter
S
ports
October 8, 2010
Teachin’ how to Dougie
Doug Watterson
When the going gets tough
Ramsey Nicholas
Empty lanes: The lap and race lanes at Mulberry Pool, used by both the boys’ and the girls’ swimming teams for practice and meets, may sit idle if voters do not pass a tax increase for the city.
In the deep end of red City budget cut would close Mulberry Pool by Ramsey Nicholas Reporter
“” Wayne Moddelmog, Athletic Director
The financial recession in the past three or so years is a problem that is now cutting into the school sports budget. If a tax increase is not passed by voters in November, the city will institute a series of facility and services budget We have cuts, one of which will close down always been Mulberry Pool, as well as reduce hours and employment of blessed with the other Fort Collins recreation cenfunding in ters. Mulberry Pool is currently the athletics being used for both the Rocky department, and Poudre swimming teams. If cuts take place, all four high but if budget the school swim teams will be forced cut is made, to distribute their practice times at EPIC. we will be “We have always been very forced to blessed with funding in the athletmake a few ics department, but if the budget changes to cut is made, we will be forced to make a few changes to the swim the swim teams’ practices,” Athletic Director teams’ Wayne Moddelmog said. practices. Poudre School District pays approximately $25,000 per year to practice at community pools. Currently, Fossil and Collins practice at EPIC, and Rocky and Poudre practice at Mulberry. A schedule has been created to allow all four teams to practice at EPIC if Mulberry closes Each school will be allocated five lanes during practices, with a rate of $6 per hour for a 90 minute practice. “The city is planning to add more swim lanes at EPIC by reconfiguring the pool and setting up lanes in the shallow end, along with the diving well,” said Sandi Martin, lead Athletics Director for Poudre School District. “This would give us 10 lanes per Jump to MULBERRY, page A7
►Rocky and Poudre use Mulberry Pool. ►Fort Collins and Fossil Ridge use EPIC. ►All the schools would use EPIC should Mulberry close. ►PSD pays $25,000 a year to the city to practice and compete at EPIC and Mulberry. ►The cost to build an indoor pool is more than $2 million, plus almost $200,000 a year in maintenance fees. ►The prospect of building a PSD pool is slim because of approximately $5 million in revenue shortfall.
EPIC to house all school swim teams should other pool close by Doug Watterson Reporter
The swimming team could get another twist put into their already crazy schedule with the possible closure of Mulberry Pool. City officials are facing key decisions on budget cuts and Mulberry Pool could be one of many cityfunded programs to take a hit. With a projected city revenue shortfall of $4.5 million in 2011 and $900,000 in 2012, the fate of the pool may have already been decided even before voters decide on a possible tax increase in November. Such a closure would greatly impact city high school swim teams, especially from Rocky and Poudre, who share the pool during the season for practices at meets. Fort Collins and Fossil Ridge share EPIC for their practices. Teams from Rocky and Poudre would have to swim elsewhere if Mulberry closes. Swimming at EPIC would be problematic because the facility already accommodate two large swim teams. “Sharing EPIC would be crazy,” senior Carl Marvin said. A drive to Loveland could become a part of the daily commute for Rocky swimmers, something that would not be easy due to an already early practice schedule. This season, boys’ swimmers will practice two times a week in the morning with practice starting at 5:15 a.m. and ending at 6:30 a.m. and three times in the afternoon. Girls swimmers will practice three times a week in the morning and twice in the afternoon. A morning commute to Loveland would require an early morning for swimmers to make it to practice. “That would be really challenging,” Marvin said. “I could do that after school, but in the morning that would that would mean getting up at four.” Jump to EPIC, page A7
Impact of concussions felt by school’s sports teams by Calvin Jouard Sports Editor
He caught the kickoff and before he could even head up field, an oncoming defender delivered a punishing blow accompanied by cries of shock from the crowd. The blow knocked him unconscious; unable to move, the trainers were quickly signaled on to the field. “I couldn’t remember anything. It took me awhile to even
remember my schedule,” said junior safety Ryan Fergen, the recipient of a devastating hit during a kickoff against Ralston Valley High School. “I guess I asked a lot of the same questions. I was pretty lost,” Fergen added. Fergen’s fateful kickoff return occurred about three weeks ago—and he still hasn’t returned Jump to CONCUSSIONS, page A6
Cassa Niedringhaus
Tough loss: Ryan Fergen looks on during the football team’s loss to Fossil. Fergen suffered a concussion in the third game against Ralston Valley High School.
At the start of every football season expectations are high, spoken and unspoken goals are set and excitement fills the air. While records remain at 0-0, responding to loss and adversity rarely ever crosses the mind of any team. But as seasons go on and games pass by for many teams, this becomes the most critical part of an entire season. At 0-1, teams find out where their weak spots are. It never feels good to get the season started off with a loss but optimism remains. There is always a next week and every player’s goal becomes getting to .500. An 0-2 record reveals even more. Were we physical enough? Did everyone give it their all? What do we need to fix? Monday’s practice gives everyone a clean slate, a chance to fix mistakes, and an opportunity to get to 1-2. As 0-3 sinks in, pressure mounts. Improvement is made from game one to game three, but belief in each other and one’s self does not improve enough. Frustration sets in and the attitude of the team becomes more serious. Focus becomes paramount. An 0-4 mark is forgettable. Work is put in with no checks cashed. Next week becomes a must-win. With the mind set of 0-5 being unacceptable, players and coaches alike will settle for nothing less than a solid win and a complete four quarters of football. Then, 0-5 brings tears. It hurts to let a school down, it hurts to let the fans down, and most importantly, it hurts to let all your hard work, as an individual and team, be absent in the win column. Giving up crosses no one’s mind, but frustration peaks. Players fight to keep doubt from entering their mind; 0-5 is far from success, but it’s even farther from failure. At 0-5 you learn more about yourself and team than any undefeated team could experience. How do teams respond after 0-5? I’m not sure. I’ve never been there before, but when the football team takes the field Thursday night against Horizon High School, it will be clear if this team has figured out how to respond to adversity. Will last week’s homecoming loss to Fossil catapult this program like no game has before? During the Lobos’ past five weeks of football, the going has certainly gotten tough. As a myriad of questions linger it becomes apparent that only one matters, will the tough get going? Doug Watterson is a junior quarterback on the football team and a reporter for the RM Highlighter.
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eatures
October 8, 2010
Section B
Rocky Mountain Highlighter
The Will to Wonder Mary Willson
Part of the Pack
The crowd went wild as Marshall Anderson strutted with a black stick-on mustache on his upper lip through the gym as he was announced for Homecoming Royalty. Homecoming Royalty is a tradition that has been going on in Rocky since the beginning. It is an American tradition to have a Homecoming Queen and King, which lets people who make a difference in the school be recognized. I am happy for who was voted in as Royalty, because it puts importance on being your own person and getting involved, as is apparent through Anderson’s wild fan base. Though, through homecoming season, every student needs to remember that they contribute to Rocky in their own unique way and every student is a part of what makes Rocky Mountain a great place to be. I state this because the idea of having “royalty” puts a confusing spin on the lesson that we are all a unified part of “The Pack.” The point of recognizing people who make a difference in the school is hugely important, and they deserve it for being involved and well liked. They are voted for by their peers, which shows their importance to the school. Yet, everyone sitting in the gym watching the “royalty” be announced and put on a literal pedestal should know that they are just as important to the “Pack” as anyone; for Rocky is 2,100 students powerful, with all 2,100 students having something different to offer. The royalty, although all deserving, are not a more important part of the school because they are well known; for everyone at Rocky is part of the pack, whether they were “royalty” or not. Every student deserves to walk down across the gym floor and have their peers cheer for them—for everyone at Rocky, royalty and non, makes a difference in “The Pack.”
Mary Willson is a senior and Center In-Depth editor for the RM Highlighter. Cassa Niedringhaus
Negative ZZZZs equal problems
Cassa Niedringhaus
Teens face consequences with health, in school by Cassa Niedringhaus Features editor
The snooze button is a teenager’s best friend in the early mornings before school. Studies have shown that teenagers’ body clock makes more inclined Features them to stay up later into the night, which hurts them when they have early school start times. A teenager who wakes up at 6 a.m. would need to fall asleep before 9 p.m. to get the recommended 9.2 hours of sleep. “The next day (after not sleeping enough), I’m not motivated at all,” said junior Audrey Hetherington. “My immune system goes way down.” Teens stay up late for various reasons including homework, extracurricular activities, and elec-
Special
tronics. According to about.com the homework load that teens face is greater than it has been in the past. This coupled with the large variety of clubs and sports that are offered and today’s technological distractions such as cell phones and the Internet make it harder for teens to get much needed rest. According to an article in the New York Times, teens send and receive an average of 2,272 texts per month. As teens lose much needed sleep during the school week, they sometimes try to catch up on sleep during the weekend. However, this is disruptive to their bodies because it is healthier to have a routine. It is less disruptive to the sleep cycles that their bodies go through.
77%
Later start time affects test scores
43%
by Regan Miller Reporter
of students get less than 8 hours of sleep per night.
of students are less focused if they do not get enough sleep.
89%
of students are more rested and alert on late-start days.
Jump to SLEEP, page B2
Some schools in Missouri are helping their students fight sleep deprivation with later start times for the average day of school. One high school in Missouri, Edina High School, changed their start time from 7:25 a.m. to 8:35 a.m. “In 13 years I have not yet met a parent, student or staff member who has suggested anything other than positive benefits for student learning,” said Jenni Norlin-Weaver, the teaching and learning director at Edina High School. According to Edina High
492 students surveyed
Jump to EDINA, page B2
We’ve got Spirit Band; yes we do by Cassa Niedringhaus Features editor
When senior Justin Frank readies himself to go onto the field for a football game, the music of the Spirit Band has extra meaning for him. Frank is an offensive lineman on the varsity football team and plays the sousaphone in the Spirit Band. He has a passion for both, but has to work extremely hard everyday to manage his schedule and balance his time between those two activities and his schoolwork. How-
ever, he is able to manage with the help of the people around him. “There’s actually a lot of similarities between band and football,” Frank said. “It’s both about making sacrifices for everybody else around you, not being selfish. That’s the biggest word I hear between the band and football, is integrity. They’re both really great programs.” The Spirit Band is an integral part of the Rocky culture. The dancing, cheering and costumes create an
Cassa Niedringhaus
Cheering for the team: Above, the spirit band plays and cheers on the football team. Left, senior Justin Frank plays in the halftime marching band.
atmosphere at sports events that makes the game more enjoyable for players, coaches and spectators. “We realize that we create the atmosphere at the
games,” said Meghan McIntyre, junior and saxophone/ horn section leader. “So if we’re not excited and cheer-
Jump to SPIRIT, page B2
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Rocky Mountain Highlighter
Features
October 8, 2010
Zombie ready ‘Apocalypse’ club prepares for upside-down world by John Califf Reporter
Imagine a world full of bloodsucking, reckless, lifeless human beings, where the undead roam and catastrophes are aplenty. Imagine that the world could be flipped Club upside down in just one day, even within a couple hours time. Would you be prepared? If you are questioning whether you are prepared or not, you’re probably not. The Zombie Apocalypse Prep Club is based on three elements: fun, culture and community. It was founded by Christian Lockie and Shannon Gaboda, seniors last year. “I feel it’s just fun and creates community,” art teacher and club sponsor Daniel Ibanez said. Activities in the club include survival skill presentations, survival kits, and nerf gun battles.
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“” John Ashlaintubbie, junior
It’s hectic at times, but I love the club and the discussions we have.
Zombie movie viewings help them better understand different zombie behaviors and traits to help assure survival in case of a zombie apocalypse. Zombie video game nights help them to prepare for a real life encounter with a zombie. Junior and club leader Angel Plunkett decided to step up to help manage some of the basic survival aspects of the club. “It’s great, fun and interesting,” Plunkett said. “But sometimes it’s hard to talk over 30-some people, sometimes
Spirit
from page B1 ing on our team then no one is going to be. It makes it more fun for everyone when we just cheer no matter if we’re winning or losing.” The band leads the crowd at sporting events in dances and cheers that keep the crowd going. The dance team and cheerleaders sometimes choreograph dances to the songs that the Spirit Band plays. The positive attitude that the Spirit Band channels encourages the players. “I’ve had football players in my classes thank me for being in band because it really helps the whole atmosphere of the game,” McIntyre said. Added football coach, Mark Brook, “I think if you asked all of the kids on our team I think one of the things they like most about home games is when the
Cassa Niedringhaus
Halftime marching: Senior Matt Evans participates in the Spirit Band halftime march at the homecoming football game.
spirit band starts to come out on the field.” Spirit bands at other schools do not always have the same spirit that the Rocky band does. Some just play at halftime and do not lead cheers and dances. “I went to a Windsor football game a couple of weeks ago and
more.” Added junior and club leader John Ashlaintubbie, “It’s hectic at times, but I love the club and the discussions we have.” Both of these hardworking students self manage the club. Ibanez helps to guide the club and helps to organize events like a professional survivalist. The club has to regulate huge crowds of people attending the club. Sometimes the number of people who attend the club exceeds 30. “The zombie apocalypse is just one of those fun things you talk about and think about,” Ashlaintubbie said. You never know when it will happen, it could be today, tomorrow, next week, or even a couple of hours from now. Knowing a little about the Zombie Apocalypse Prep Club, hopefully you’ll be among one of the many survivors in dark apocalyptic times.
their band doesn’t really play spirit music, they just pretty much played halftime,” McIntyre said. “It makes it more fun to just be able to dance and everything.” To generate spirit, the band competes to see who dresses up the best for the games. At the end of the year, someone gets the Spirit Award. Costumes consist of hats, boas, face paint, and Rocky colored clothes. “It’s more fun if you’re super dressed up,” McIntyre said. The band receives a positive reaction from all who experience their spirit. “It (Rocky versus other schools) doesn’t compare.” Brook said. “Our kids are the best. They (the band) do a phenomenal job,” Brook said. “It’s (respect) unwritten. That band commands respect from everybody because they’re so good.”
John Califf
Preparing for apocalypse: The Zombie Apocolypse Prep Club is led by Angel Plunkett and John Ashlaintubbie. The club members use different activies to help themselves prepare to fight zombies.
Sleep
from page B1 Sleep deprived teens compromise their health. “When I get more stressed I get sicker and it is a downward spiral,” said junior Rennie Winkelman. Teens may suffer a myriad of health problems when they do not get enough sleep including depression and ADHD. They face the risk of weight gain too. Their lack of sleep also puts them at a higher risk of getting into a car crash. Young, drowsy people behind the wheel cause approximately 500,000 car crashes a year. A loss of sleep compromises a teen’s ability to perform well in school. “It (falling asleep in class) occurs weekly with some students,” said history teacher, Kurt Knierim. “Study after study shows that teenagers think best in the later morning than in the early morning.” In a study cited by the Ameri-
Edina
from page B1 School, this switch was made in 1997 in response to a request from the Minnesota Medical Association to start schools later. They decided to act upon this due to medical research from Brown and John Hopkins Universities about adolescent sleep patterns. “I started teaching in a high school whose start time was 7:30,” said Doug Bullinger, the data coach at Edina Public Schools. “I noticed a marked difference in the alertness of my students when I came over to Edina. First hour is no longer a battle against fatigue.” It is not natural for teenagers to sleep before 11 p.m.; the body does not naturally rest until then. If students sleep at this rate then they will only be getting about seven to seven and a half hours of sleep every night before they have to wake up in the morning to get ready for school. Students also may be more
can Psychological Association, students who reported getting more sleep also reported having higher grades. Sleep deprived teens have a harder time remembering facts and concentrating in class. “I feel like first period is completely not productive for me because I’m tired,” Winkelman said. Sometimes, teens turn to caffeine to combat their sleepiness. “It (caffeine) helps me for a bit and then I start to crash again,” Hetherington said. “I am constantly drinking caffeine to keep myself going during the day.” What teens may not realize is that caffeine can have negative health effects. It increases their heart rate and can become addictive. It often time causes them to get less sleep at night. To combat sleep deprivation, teens can work to turn off their electronic distractions, avoid caffeine, and try to maintain a regular sleep schedule.
alert during the school day, therefore gaining better test scores. “Our best indicator has been SAT impact over time and AP course taking as well as scores,” Norlin-Weaver said. “While neither can be argued to be a casual impact, both have grown in the number of participants as well as the average score.” Even though there are many advantages to starting school later, there are a few disadvantages. “The biggest disadvantage is the effect it has on 6th hour (the last hour of the day). So many students get released early for their sports teams,” Bullinger said, “You really need to be on top of things as a teacher and as a student with respect to having your homework done or tests taken.” Despite this, students and staff of Edina are pleased with their schedule. “My sense is that teachers and students like that we start at 8:30,” Bullinger said.
Features
October 8, 2010
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Rocky Mountain Highlighter
A passion for one-wheeled sport
Unicyclist Thomas recognized on national level
Showing his stuff: Junior Colby Thomas demonstrates some of his tricks. He is a nationally ranked unicycler and looking for a big sponsor.
by Fahey Zink Reporter
When junior Colby Thomas got his first unicycle in 6th grade, he never thought he would become a nationally ranked unicyclist. “I got it for Christmas in 6th grade and learned to ride it that summer, but then I quit,” Thomas said. “Then I picked it up again in 8th grade and it to grow on Student started me.” Thomas first started to ride his unicycle in his middle school talent shows, mostly riding around and doing jumps, but in the summer of 9th grade he started to branch out into different types of unicycling, such as flat land, which is doing any type of tricks on flat land. It didn’t last long, however, because it was never really fulfilling to him. “I wasn’t impressed with my riding with flat land,” Thomas said. “That’s when I started getting into street unicycling.” Street unicycling consists of tricks like grinding rails, flipping stairs and complicated tricks such as a 900
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Charlie Anderson
unispin, 720 flip and a 540 double flip. “Colby just took off on learning how to ride a unicycle,” said Thomas’s mom Holly Thomas. “He has also shown such great focus and determinations on learning different tricks. It’s a great workout both physically and mentally.” Added Thomas, “I like to freak people out on how big I go. I’m the type of
unicyclist that goes the biggest. People think that I don’t care if I get hurt.” The summer of 10th grade, Thomas took his unicycling to new heights as he competed in the North America Unicycling Championship and Convention, also known as the “U Games,” which is one of the largest gatherings for unicyclists. There Thomas ranked 4th place for the Trials Advance for his age group and 7th in street unicycling for
expert. “I never thought I would be a nationally ranked unicyclist because, at first, I never liked unicycling,” Thomas said. “But I felt bad when I heard my ranking because if I landed my best stuff (tricks) I think I would have done much better.” Added junior Hudson Bloom, one of Thomas’s friends, “I think he’s pretty beast at it (unicycling). He’s super good and I’ve never seen anyone else who can
hop on a unicycle and spin it like six times.” The next step for Thomas and his unicycling is getting a huge sponsor from Unicycle TV, which is based in Germany. While Thomas doesn’t find out if he gets the sponsor until Oct. 24, he has a pretty good chance of getting it. “It’s the closest thing to pros,” Thomas said. “I’m in the top four and they’re picking two people to sponsor, so there’s a 50/50 chance.” While he doesn’t have the sponsor for Unicycle TV, he already has two sponsors from Unicycle.com and Bedford Unicycles, but he’s ready for the next step. “They (Unicycle.com and Bedford Unicycles) are more like pre-sponsors. They don’t really do much,” Thomas said. “If I get the one from Unicycle TV, I would be able to travel worldwide for free, get free unicycle parts, basically everything is free.” While unicycling is big in Europe, Thomas doesn’t see it becoming huge in America, and he wants to keep it that way “I don’t think it’ll catch on here, but I’m okay with that because it makes it unique,” Thomas said. “I never like the main sports like football or soccer, but unicycling is different and that’s why I think I got into it.” Whatever the case may be, Thomas will continue to unicycle for two main reasons. “I do it to get women, and as a stress reliever but mostly for the women,” Thomas said.
Around the world
Sharing his stories: Social studies teacher Blair Berg teaches his fourth perod geography class. He works to share his stories about travel and life in other countries to bring more meaning to what he teaches.
Teacher brings travels, international life into classroom to create interest by Tess Halac Editor-in-Chief
Born in the protective arms of Colorado, 8-year-old Blair Berg suddenly found himself woken in the middle of the night and running for his life. Screams and gunshots filled the air, chaos erupting from every corner of the apartment compound. Together, he and his family ran desperately, trying to escape this nightmarish turmoil. Experiences Teacher like this may seem like a scene from an action movie to some, but for Berg, first year Social Studies teacher, it’s both a childhood memory and a teaching tool. Berg’s parents are international teachers, requiring his family to travel the world far and wide. He moved from Colorado when he was a month old to Nairobi, Kenya. While his parents were at work, Berg was under the care of an African lady who acted as a nanny. From there, Berg and his family moved to Kinshasa, Zaire (now Democratic Republic of Congo) when he was five so his parents could continue their teaching. During this time, the Congo War was starting, which
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Berg describes as the “worst war in the history of the world.” According to him, there was a dictator named Mobutu who refused to give the army any compensation. Instead he would take all the government money and keep it for personal profit. In retaliation, the army murdered, looted, and killed as many people as possible in order to get Mobutu to pay them. Fortunately, the American School of Kinshasa was in close relation to the United States Embassy of Zaire. Because of this, the Berg family was given government-issued walkie-talkies that were used to communicate instructions on what they needed to do that night. “They (the walkie-talkies) would say ‘if you go out past 7:00 p.m., that’s past the government curfew, and you will be shot on-site,’” Berg said. “Of course, no African could afford a walkie-talkie, so every night at 7:00 you could just hear people being gunned down and shells hitting the house. It was terrifying. That was one of my first memories.” To ensure their safety, each night Berg’s family would prepare to escape through the apartment’s only window and evacuate in a
Mary Willson
moment’s notice. “While other kids were getting dressed for bed, we were dressed to run,” Berg said. “We had shoes, socks, everything on, knowing that as soon as we heard that gate (to the apartment compound) bust, we had to get out of there.” Once the gate was broken down, Berg and his family were able to escape to safety, and were later transported to Moscow, Russia in 1992, a mere year after the Soviet Union fell. Like any revolutionary change in society, the period after can only be described as ‘chaotic.’ In fact, in 1994, a coup occurred where Berg was living. “The military turned their guns on their own government,”
Berg said. “So I actually lived through two civil wars.” While Berg has arguably already had more adventure than most people have in their lifetimes, his thirst for adventure and travel has not yet been quenched. “I get so bored staying in the same place for a long period of time,” Berg said. “The things that make you feel alive are being in those extremely uncomfortable situations. It shows you what you’re capable of, and you learn so much about yourself.” Berg is now passing on this learning to his students. Instead of droning lectures about countries some-thousand miles away, Berg is able to connect the history and geography curriculum
to his childhood experiences. “Traveling opens up your world and mind and thus those ‘out of classroom experiences’ compliment the total person and learner,” said retired Social Studies teacher Bob Parry, who served as Berg’s cooperating teacher last year. “Mr. Berg’s stories and passion create learning opportunities in the classroom as he takes his subject matter and show relevancy in today’s world of community. Mr. Berg constantly brings relevancy to each lesson.” Adds sophomore Desi Klaer, who is a current student of Berg’s, “Because of his experiences we can learn how it affects him, and since everyone loves him we can all kind of relate to it. It adds validity.”
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October 8, 2010
1. Flat-bill hats have been a popular style for guys throughout the decade, yet girls sport them too.
Trend s
of 201 0
7. Flat, low sneakers such as Vans and Converse have been in style through the last few years and continue to grow in popularity.
Tendencies of movement
Oh dude, that’s cool; where’d you get it? This is how trends are spread—by diffusion trickling from person, to person, down the hierarchal tree. The movement of ideas, opinions, or ways of doing something is a trend according to Dictionary.com. Looking into the past, it is apparent that trends come in and out, especially in fashion styles. Every Experiment, person follows trends, whether it is conscious or not, it is a part of who we are. be true to Trends are born and then go through five stages ranging from yourself when an idea is formed, to when it is diffused throughout all of (because) it’s society according to William Higham, leader of “The Next Big Thing,” a company that predicts trends and shares it with the fun to see Nicole how people general public. Grebb, First in the hierarchy are innovators; the people who create senior will react. an idea. These people typically don’t create the idea to have others follow, but merely for their own use. An example of an innovator may be a fashion designer, author, or movie producer. Generally, these people are not worried about negative opinions and create to create, much like an artist. Second on the hierarchy are early adaptors, those who are the very first to grasp onto a new idea. People who have money to spend on new fashion, and find what the general public has not to be good enough. These are the first to take up a new idea. 6. Through diffusion, the trend can finally trickle to the mainstream platform, divided into two stages: early and late graspers. Early mainstream followers adopt trends before most of the general public do and are a resource for the mainstream population to look towards for guidance about the trend. They are generally risk takers, and use products for more than just the general use. For example, these people extremely tech savvy or high fashion dressers. The late mainstream followers make up the majority of the market. These are people that like to feel completely comfortable with a product, a logical consumer. Generally, there is a long lag between early followers and late followers because early followers need to have reassurance of the trend. Lastly, there are the laggards. An example of this may be, lets say, a grandparent, who picks up on trends about five years after the fact. They are the least interested in change and the most risk-adverse. Trends are everywhere. They make up current shoes, hair styles, iPods, phones, backpacks, books, social activities and beyond. Everything in society is connected to a trend. Every person makes up the hierarchy of a trend, and every trend goes through the hierarchy. What part of the hierarchy are you?
5.
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The
4. Boots, including ankle boots, and “biker” boots are a popular style for girls.
Anatomy o f a
Students seek, follow individuality by Geneva Mueller Reporter
In an average day a student will most definitely see silly bands, leggings, flatbills and boys wearing v-necks—all current and popular trends. Throughout history, some relatively insane trends have become popular. Leisure suits, parachute pants and girls with mullets come to mind; however, one thing remains true—people never cease to follow trends. So what happens when it becomes a trend to not follow trends? Many would say that this is happening presently. “People want to be more creative and experiment with what is out there,” Nicole Grebb ,an aspiring fashion designer, said Grebb identifies with fashions from the sixties; characters like Marianne Faithful, but also draws from art and culture of other countries. “It’s about embracing individuality and branching out from what’s in the norm, or what’s typical,” Grebb said. However, since it is currently believed to be a trend to not follow the trends, some believe that this could potentially detract from the statement that people try to make by not conforming to trends. “It brings a lack of sincerity to those who try to think for themselves,” senior Marshall Anderson said. Anderson sticks to a “think for himself ” style inspired by cheap clothes found at thrift stores. Initially, he shopped at thrift stores because he had to pay for his own clothes but it brought about a very unique style. Anderson’s style is partially inspired by thrift store originality but he also tries to think for himself; not conform. He makes a statement about the brainwash of society through his clothes. “I kind of like to mock society by getting goofy clothes,” Anderson said. Additionally, Anderson does not conform to the societal norm of participating in group activities, partying or driving a car. He chooses more original forms of entertainment. It is nearly inarguable that today’s generation is one of acceptance of less than normal trends. Most people nowadays want to think of themselves as innovators, the trend starters. This is accepted relatively well these days which brings about a myriad of trends that are extremely diverse. In one trip down the hallway a student will see eighties-inspired clothing juxtaposed with someone completely clad in athletic cloths simply worn for comfort. Generally, today’s generation can experiment with whatever they please and be all the more accepted for it. In fact, Grebb hopes that people will challenge societal limitations by branching out and creating their own styles, and possibly even a new trend. “Experiment, be true to yourself [because] it’s fun to see how people will react,” Grebb said.
Trend 7.
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by Mary Willson Center In-Depth Editor
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3. Loose, thin skirts are
B5 Trends move in stages, universally followed
are hugely popular along with ear gauges. Hemp has been a popular material to make jewelry out of recently. Plaid for both guys and girls is popular, especially throughout the winter.
“in” for girls. Both guys and girls sport wrists full of bracelets.
enter in-depth
5.Facial piercing such as nose piercings
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The plain and simple style has always, and will always be popular.
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Rocky Mountain Highlighter
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help Chloe
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8. ’60s fashion included a “mod” look, which focuses on bright colors, and bold shapes.
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9. Huge platform shoes were all the rage throughout the ’70s, along with disco and bell bottom pants. 10. Leg warmers were a trend throughout the ’80s, along with neon colors and bright, bold graphics. 11. Known as the “grunge” look, band tee shirts and baggy clothes were a trend in the ’90s. 12. Merging into recent trends, Uggs started being a trend in the mid 2000s and are still hugely popular.
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October 8, 2010
1. Flat-bill hats have been a popular style for guys throughout the decade, yet girls sport them too.
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7. Flat, low sneakers such as Vans and Converse have been in style through the last few years and continue to grow in popularity.
Tendencies of movement
Oh dude, that’s cool; where’d you get it? This is how trends are spread—by diffusion trickling from person, to person, down the hierarchal tree. The movement of ideas, opinions, or ways of doing something is a trend according to Dictionary.com. Looking into the past, it is apparent that trends come in and out, especially in fashion styles. Every Experiment, person follows trends, whether it is conscious or not, it is a part of who we are. be true to Trends are born and then go through five stages ranging from yourself when an idea is formed, to when it is diffused throughout all of (because) it’s society according to William Higham, leader of “The Next Big Thing,” a company that predicts trends and shares it with the fun to see Nicole how people general public. Grebb, First in the hierarchy are innovators; the people who create senior will react. an idea. These people typically don’t create the idea to have others follow, but merely for their own use. An example of an innovator may be a fashion designer, author, or movie producer. Generally, these people are not worried about negative opinions and create to create, much like an artist. Second on the hierarchy are early adaptors, those who are the very first to grasp onto a new idea. People who have money to spend on new fashion, and find what the general public has not to be good enough. These are the first to take up a new idea. 6. Through diffusion, the trend can finally trickle to the mainstream platform, divided into two stages: early and late graspers. Early mainstream followers adopt trends before most of the general public do and are a resource for the mainstream population to look towards for guidance about the trend. They are generally risk takers, and use products for more than just the general use. For example, these people extremely tech savvy or high fashion dressers. The late mainstream followers make up the majority of the market. These are people that like to feel completely comfortable with a product, a logical consumer. Generally, there is a long lag between early followers and late followers because early followers need to have reassurance of the trend. Lastly, there are the laggards. An example of this may be, lets say, a grandparent, who picks up on trends about five years after the fact. They are the least interested in change and the most risk-adverse. Trends are everywhere. They make up current shoes, hair styles, iPods, phones, backpacks, books, social activities and beyond. Everything in society is connected to a trend. Every person makes up the hierarchy of a trend, and every trend goes through the hierarchy. What part of the hierarchy are you?
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The
4. Boots, including ankle boots, and “biker” boots are a popular style for girls.
Anatomy o f a
Students seek, follow individuality by Geneva Mueller Reporter
In an average day a student will most definitely see silly bands, leggings, flatbills and boys wearing v-necks—all current and popular trends. Throughout history, some relatively insane trends have become popular. Leisure suits, parachute pants and girls with mullets come to mind; however, one thing remains true—people never cease to follow trends. So what happens when it becomes a trend to not follow trends? Many would say that this is happening presently. “People want to be more creative and experiment with what is out there,” Nicole Grebb ,an aspiring fashion designer, said Grebb identifies with fashions from the sixties; characters like Marianne Faithful, but also draws from art and culture of other countries. “It’s about embracing individuality and branching out from what’s in the norm, or what’s typical,” Grebb said. However, since it is currently believed to be a trend to not follow the trends, some believe that this could potentially detract from the statement that people try to make by not conforming to trends. “It brings a lack of sincerity to those who try to think for themselves,” senior Marshall Anderson said. Anderson sticks to a “think for himself ” style inspired by cheap clothes found at thrift stores. Initially, he shopped at thrift stores because he had to pay for his own clothes but it brought about a very unique style. Anderson’s style is partially inspired by thrift store originality but he also tries to think for himself; not conform. He makes a statement about the brainwash of society through his clothes. “I kind of like to mock society by getting goofy clothes,” Anderson said. Additionally, Anderson does not conform to the societal norm of participating in group activities, partying or driving a car. He chooses more original forms of entertainment. It is nearly inarguable that today’s generation is one of acceptance of less than normal trends. Most people nowadays want to think of themselves as innovators, the trend starters. This is accepted relatively well these days which brings about a myriad of trends that are extremely diverse. In one trip down the hallway a student will see eighties-inspired clothing juxtaposed with someone completely clad in athletic cloths simply worn for comfort. Generally, today’s generation can experiment with whatever they please and be all the more accepted for it. In fact, Grebb hopes that people will challenge societal limitations by branching out and creating their own styles, and possibly even a new trend. “Experiment, be true to yourself [because] it’s fun to see how people will react,” Grebb said.
Trend 7.
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by Mary Willson Center In-Depth Editor
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3. Loose, thin skirts are
B5 Trends move in stages, universally followed
are hugely popular along with ear gauges. Hemp has been a popular material to make jewelry out of recently. Plaid for both guys and girls is popular, especially throughout the winter.
“in” for girls. Both guys and girls sport wrists full of bracelets.
enter in-depth
5.Facial piercing such as nose piercings
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The plain and simple style has always, and will always be popular.
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8. ’60s fashion included a “mod” look, which focuses on bright colors, and bold shapes.
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9. Huge platform shoes were all the rage throughout the ’70s, along with disco and bell bottom pants. 10. Leg warmers were a trend throughout the ’80s, along with neon colors and bright, bold graphics. 11. Known as the “grunge” look, band tee shirts and baggy clothes were a trend in the ’90s. 12. Merging into recent trends, Uggs started being a trend in the mid 2000s and are still hugely popular.
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B6
Limelight Games and entertainment
Rocky Mountain Highlighter
October 8, 2010
Simple People- Loren DeWeese
Gro$$ Ke$ha- Charlie Anderson
Top Ten Weezer from page B7
Worst Homecoming Experiences: Shriner to add to the great quality of the chorus. As far as the music goes, the album is typical Weezer. The band has gone through many musical
10. Date throws up because you look like stool. No grinding for you! 9. You think that “A Hogwarts Theme” means you must dress like a wizard. Loser. 8. “Tik Tok” plays nonstop. 7. You mistake a girl who is wearing the same dress as your actual date for your new grinding part-
ner. No more grinding for you! 6. A lightening-shaped zit appears on your forehead. 5. Hogwarts law states that charperones must be present for every couple. 4. He-Who-Doesn’t-Enjoy-BeingTalked-About shows up for revenge against Harry.
phases, some being slower, some being more robotic, and some being a pure alternative rock sound. Hurley is a more alternative sound which is what Weezer is best at. It seems as if the band is just doing
what they love to do; play music. Weezer is playing their music straight from their hearts instead of conforming to popular musical trends. Even though the album is
shorter than normal, Weezer does an impressive job of creating the classic Weezer sound. True Weezer fans will not be disappointed.
“We’ve had to make ties, order shirts, and somehow find everyone a pair of matching white pants,” said junior Amelia Higgens who works with the tech crew for the show and assists the show’s costumer. In addition to the animated characters, this show’s set has offered opportunities for new ideas of design. Senior set designer Evan
West got the inspirations for the set from the original Broadway production script and research on 1930s style ocean liners. “We’re making [the set] the most stereotypical thing that everyone thinks of,” West said about his vision for an ocean liner set on stage. “We’re turning the stage into something that a huge cast of 40 plus people can act on.” The stage will be set up as the ship, but with a unique twist; it
has two levels. Designed as a unit set with phases, the main design stays the same throughout the show, but jail cells, beds and wall dividers are introduced throughout the show for exciting scene changes. The show will weigh anchor on Oct. 21 and continue through the 22 and 23. Don’t forget to come out and live the life on a 1930s cruise ship for a night, as there are sure to be some interesting events.
Heather Robillard. I make all of them (the dances) and teach them. Then we have Saturday rehearsals for the dances Heather choreographs and then we all practice them together.” While Bancroft and Robillard are in charge of the choreography, and Maiden assistant directs,
Schendel has a huge weight lifted from her shoulders. “Number one, I don’t do dance,” Schendel said. “If I had to choreograph the show, there would be no dance. Carson is my right hand man. When I am coordinating everything, I get scatter-brained. Carson helps keep my head on. She makes sure things are running smoothly. It’s a good
opportunity to put students in leadership positions.” Although Bancroft and Maiden have huge roles in the play, the rest of the cast are also huge helps. The final production would not be what it is without Schendel and the rest of the people involved. “We all put a lot into it,” Bancroft said. “It’s not just the teachers.”
under are not recommended to go into the haunted house. Despite these warnings, students are still excited to enter the haunted house. "I’m excited to see one built where it has never been," said Emma Kanter, a sophomore who plans to attend Old Town Scare.
The tickets for Old Town Scare will be $13, and it will be open all through the month of October. Santos estimates about 15-25 minutes of thrills in the haunted house which includes lots of gore and terrifying scenes. “Come down, bring your friends, and prepare for a scary, fun night,” Santos said.
Fall from page B8
Take a peek at
Old Town Scare 320 Walnut, Fort Collins www.oldtownscare.com
Student from page B8
Scare
from page B8
they are not liable for any injuries, according to oldtownscare.com; they are not liable for death, either. "It has horror movie-style sets, like a movie that would be rated PG-13," Santos said. This is why people ages 14 and younger and
3. Going alone. No grinding for you! 2. You are killed with the Killing Curse. Shucks. 1. Date forgets caffeine, falls asleep at dinner. No grinding for you! Charlie Anderson and Ryan Nelson
Grade: A
Limelight
October 8, 2010
B7
Rocky Mountain Highlighter
Weezer’s album demonstrates familiar sound
Catching some grub: The new restaurant Snooze offers a comfortable atmosphere as well as delicious breakfast food. The local and relatively new eatery is located off of Mountain and College Avenue across from Walrus Ice Cream.
by Trevor Merrill Reporter
Weezer released their eighth album, Hurley, brining back the classical Weezer sound. The album is quite an interesting sight. Even though Weezer always has CD unique album covers, whether it’s a jumping dog or the band dressed in cowboy apparel, Hurley is the most unique thus far. The cover is a picture of Jorge Garcia, the actor who plays the character Hurley in the hit television show Lost. The album starts off with a song called “Memories,” which contains decent musicality, but excellent lyrics. After “Memories,” the lyrics continue to be exceptional throughout. Most of the songs tell some relatable sort of story. Songs such as “Brave New World” tell stories that are general enough for a majority of listeners ►Weezer album to relate to. cover The lyrics connect to the band specifically in parts, while other parts, usually the chorus, are easy to relate to. Being the kick-off to the new album, “Memories” does a great job at setting the tone for the album. Lead singer Rivers Cuomo sings about their lives as rock stars in the past. After only one verse, the song breaks into the very catchy chorus speaking about the past. Reminiscing on their past brings back the great memories they all share. The background instruments just emphasize the excellence that the chorus has to offer. Drummer Patrick Wilson works great with keyboards Brian Bell and Scott
Review
Jump to WEEZER, page B6
Charlie Anderson
Snooze: Catching good reviews instead of ZZZs
by Charlie Anderson Reporter
Clement Freud once noted that “Breakfast is a notoriously difficult meal to serve with a flourish.” Many can attest to the fact that a nutritious meal with zing is hard to find, especially in the early hours. Society respects these people, unanimously and involuntarily named the morning person, in a singular Food context. Luckily for them, Fort Collins has recently discovered a café-style restaurant that does just that; serves breakfast with a certain “flourish.” Open at 6:30 in the morning every weekday, Snooze can satisfy any breakfast needs produced by the admirable morning person. For those not sympathetic of the morning caliber, have no fear. Although breakfast is seen as the most important meal of the
Review
day, it is widely accepted that the majority of the population won’t be ready for such a meal at the moment of wake. The employment team at Snooze respects this fact, serving breakfast along with lunch until 2:30 in the afternoon. Yes, separatism has been abolished for many years, but it is with the creation of Snooze that morning people and non-morning people can finally enjoy breakfast together and in harmony. Located off of Mountain Ave. and College Ave., Snooze creates a peculiar atmosphere that, in the end, comes across as warm and inviting with a 1950s vibe. The conversations of fellow breakfast-eaters reverberate off the colorful walls and conjoin to create an amiable air that staffers agreeably conform to. Even while waiting for an open-table, it is hard to not feel a part of one of the most engaging communi-
ties Colorado has to offer. Of course, food is the number one priority for Snooze (as should be for any restaurant), but a close second is the customer service. Even through long lines, the staff works on amazing levels to appease each customer. “How can we make this better?” is a common question heard throughout the restaurant, often followed by “I’m not sure you can.” Food choices fall into five categories at the restaurant, with subcategories and numerous substitutions falling off the menu. The Snooze breakfast menu contains the mandatory egg section, followed by an entire chapter devoted to the “Art of Hollandaise.” Chefs at the restaurant take Hollandaise seriously, priding themselves on creating artwork out of each meal in the section. Pancakes, sweets, and the lighter side of fruits/granola are separated by their own titles to
make up the rest of the menu. All breakfast eateries contain the typical eggs and pancakes. Snooze makes the perfect pancake and the perfect egg, but also spices the menu up with unique items including a Breakfast Pot Pie, Pineapple Pancakes, and S’mores French Toast. Needless to say, the food is exquisite, but restaurant-goers are able to feel a sense of locality at Snooze. Only three locations exist, all within the borders of Colorado, the latest of which was established across the street from Walrus Ice Cream last April. The recency of the restaurant establishment, the delicacy of the food, and the consistent upbeat customer service is cause for excitement in the Fort Collins area. With a new location on its way in Southglenn, the future is bright for Snooze.
Grade: A-
Easy A easily destined to become teenage classic Witty dialogue makes this film grade A-worthy
Trying to score: Emma Stone tries to flirt with co-star Penn Padgley in a scene from the new movie, Easy A. Stone’s character’s life is flipped upside down when a rumor about her sexual escapades sprials out of control.
by Chloe Evans Limelight Editor
Lindsay Lohan, move aside; there’s a new redheaded, teenage outcast set to take over this generation’s snarky chick flicks. Mean Girls, prepare to be replaced; Easy A is here and it’s preparing to dominate with its witty attitude and popular, but cleverly altered, Movie archetypes. Invisible Olive Penderghast (Emma Stone) has made it through three years of high school unnoticed until she unwillingly lies to her best friend (Alyson Michalka) about losing her V-card during a one night stand. Within hours, the rumor spreads like wildfire and Olive is forced to accept and embrace her new reputation.
Review
The title of the film and all of the advertising for the movie is based around the classic and widely taught novel, The Scarlet Letter. English teachers around the world might want to praise the director for trying to incorporate classic literature into popular culture, but the connec-
Screen Gems/MCT
tion between the two pieces is weak. The only theme present in the movie and book is the idea that adultery, or sleeping around in high school, is the worst crime a woman can commit. Olive embraces the rumor by sewing a red A onto every item of her clothing in a fit of rage.
However, despite the scarlet A, and being chastised by the school’s youth group, the plot of Easy A has no semblance to the novel. In an interesting twist, the writers of the film make unlikely characters into villains- Jesus freaks. The movie takes the
Bible-thumping, Christian extremist stereotype even further by transforming typically sweet Amanda Bynes and making her into the vindictive, evil character Marianne. This casting, along with vampire dreamboat James from Twilight (Cam Gigandet) as Marianne’s God loving boyfriend, definitely spices up the different attitudes of the movie. It’s interesting to see the usual chick-flick starlet act cruelly and maliciously for a change. Additionally, Stone’s character shines in this witty teenage flick with her effortless, smartalecky lines and her “I don’t give a crap what everyone thinks” attitude that she portrays during the midst of her self-generated scandal. The plot of the film flows easily without awkwardness. Its quick dialogue, hilarious characters and typical chick flick feel make this movie a new classic. Grade: A
B8
Rocky Mountain Highlighter
L
imelight
October 8, 2010
Rockin' the
What's in the Limelight?
boat
Cassa Niedringhaus
Tap tap tappin': Seniors Nicole Emmerich, Kasey Darling, Kaia Lagoni, Hayley Bancroft, and Kiersten Eden preview a tap dancing number for the fall musical at the Homecoming Assembly. Bancroft is the student choreographer for the upcoming show and helps teach other students the dances for the musical.
Anything Goes offers big entertainment by Chloe Evans Limelight editor
Criminals, mistaken identity, and romance. What else could you ask for from a high school musical? This year’s fall production of Anything Goes guarantees a fun, classic show from the 1930s. “I was tired of doing heavy musicals and was ready to something silly and light hearted,” Limelight do director Larissa Schendel said. “I was also tired of the strict period pieces and wanted something where I could use a little of my artistic license and get away with spandex and sequins even though they didn’t exist in the 30s.” Anything Goes takes place on an ocean liner en route from New York to England during the 1930s and has some racy, boisterous and outrageous characters aboard. Some of ►Dancers from the strong characters Anything Goes in this unforgettable show are Reno Sweeney, the showgirl played by senior Kaia Lagoni, Billy Crocker, the heartbreaker and stowaway played by senior Jack Barton, and Hope Harcourt, the debutante and Billy’s love interest played by sophomore Helen Rawlins. “Reno’s really flirty and confident,” said Lagoni who has been involved in the musical since her sophomore year. “I’ve always played the princess in the big ball gown for the musicals, but this time I get to play someone sassier.” With sassy characters come interesting costumes. True to form, Reno is fitted in bright, daring red numbers during the show, while her “angels” are dressed in matching outfits. The oceanic setting has also caused a need for snazzy sailor outfits for a large portion of the cast.
Special
Jump to FALL, page B6
Students help run show’s blocking, choreography by Trevor Merrill Reporter
The upcoming fall musical is directed by Larissa Schendel, but the show would not be same without the help from student choreographer Hayley Bancroft and student assistant director Carson Maiden. “It really helps to spread the wealth,” Schendel said. “If I had to do everything on my own it would never get done.” Senior Maiden helps the actors with their lines, in addition to helping Schendel with several different Trevor Merrill tasks. Director in training: Senior Carson Maiden “I write down all talks with Schendel's student teacher Gina Dithe blocking for the Filice during rehearsal. Maiden helps students characters,” Maiden by feeding lines and planning blocking. said. “So if they mess up I can help or if they ask for their line I can tell them their line. I do teach a lot too and go in back (stage) and help and come in on Saturdays.” Bancroft, along with the Need to know rest of the staff, also comes information in on Saturdays to help ►Oct. 21, 22, and 23 out with various tasks to at 7 p.m. improve the show. ► Ticket prices: “Every Saturday we have •$7 kids 12 and tech days,” Bancroft said. under, senior “We’re all required to come citizens, students to one tech day and you with activity pass come and help build sets •$9 all other students with the tech kids because •$11 adults they have so much to do, but sets are really all built by the tech kids.” Bancroft is the student choreographer for the show, and is responsible for teaching the dancers some of the dances. “I help choreograph some of the dances,” Bancroft said. “Some are choreographed by Jump to STUDENT, page B6
Haunted house promises adult fright by Regan Miller Reporter
Nicholous Santos, the former head chef of Bisettis' restaurant, has always been inspired by haunted houses, and now he has decided to create one of his own. Opening Oct. 1, Old Town will have a new, frightening sight. It’s Old Town Scare, a haunted house which will haunt 320 Walnut Street, the former Goodwill store. “I used to visit Barrett Haunted Mansions when I lived in Massachusetts,” said Santos. This has been the inspiration for Old Town Scare. According to Santos, Old Town Scare has intense murder
“”
It has horror movie style sets, like a movie that would be rated PG-13.
Nicholous Santos, owner of Old Town Scare scenes, extreme music, and gore. “The customers should expect a terrifying night, with lots of gore and surprise,”Santos said. Old Town Scare is an “Enter at your own risk” haunt, and Jump to SCARE, page B6
Oct. 8 Movie: Nowhere Boy Movie: Life As We Know It Movie: Secretariat Movie: My Soul To Take School: Oktoberfest Concert: Gregory Alan Isakov w/ Danielle Ate the Sandwich at the Gothic Theater Oct. 9 Concert: B.o.B at the Boulder Theater Oct. 12 CD Release- Surfjan Stevens- The Age of Adz Oct. 13 School: Finals (periods 3 and 4) Oct. 14 School: Finals (periods 1 and 2) Oct. 15 Movie: Jackass 3D Oct. 19 CD Release: Kings of Leon- Come Around Sundown Oct. 21
School: School Musical (through Oct. 23)
Oct. 22 Movie: Paranormal Activity 2 Movie: Hereafter Oct. 26 CD Release: Kid Cudi- Man On The Moon II: The Legend of Mr. Rager CD Release: Taylor Swift- Speak Now School: Orchestra Concert Oct. 27 School: Senior Class Meeting Concert: Pepper at the Aggie Oct. 28 School: Trick-or-Treat Street Concert: Gogol Bordello at the Boulder Theater Oct. 29 Concert: DeVotchka at the Boulder Theater Movie: Saw 3D
Jake Mohr
Blood, guts, and gore: A grotesque head and severed limbs serve as scary decorations in the Old Town Scare haunted house. The new adult haunted house will be located in the old Goodwill in Old Town this Halloween.
Nov. 3 School: Peace Circles