...skate to new skate park, page a5
ROCKY MOUNTAIN
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Rocky Mountain High School Volume 31, No. 2
on the
calendar Oct. 11: Football game against FCHS @ 11 a.m. Oct. 20: Fall intermission-no school! Oct. 20-25: Red Ribbon Week Nov. 3: Senior class meeting @ 8:15-9:15 a.m. Nov. 6: Senior order day @ 11:1012:00.
Opinion line of the issue Those singing little mice did not give Cinderella a boob job, face-lift, and tummy tuck, all they did was make her a dress See column, page b4
news a3: New gym set for construction
1300 W. Swallow Rd. Fort Collins CO, 80526
friday, oct. 10
“everything as far as you can see...” from John Denver’s Rocky Mountain High
Proposition to change closed forum policy by Erik Pinkston
Editor-in-Chief
Poudre School District’s closed forum policy on clubs is predicted to change to a limited open forum sometime in mid October. The proposition, being pushed through by district manager Randy Yaussi, is expected to pass
We as administrators are looking forward to the change. I think it opens more opportunites for students. -Marian Kolstoe , assistant principal
in the school board. Administrators are hoping the proposition will pass.
“We as administrators are looking forward to the change,”assistant principal Marian Kolstoe said.
The change from a closed forum to an open forum allows schools to have clubs that are not curriculum-related. The open forum policy, which would be classified as a limited open forum, states that students can create clubs as long as they follow highly specific guidelines. Some of these
guidelines include that all members of the club must be enrolled students, all clubs must have a teacher supervisor and all clubs must be independently funded. Supervisors of student initiated clubs may be involved in the activities, Jump to Clubs, page a3
5 YEARS AFTER S HEPARD Has the tragic beating and death of a gay Laramie man
in 1998 changed society? For better or for worse? Community I can’t forget hard as I try struggles This silhouette against the sky - “Scarecrow,” Melissa Etheridge to derive love from hate by Cassie Bohlmann
Reporter
a5: Courtyard creature adds to school’s diversity
different lifestyles, which makes it more difficult for them to come out during high school. It is also surprising because a recent poll taken off of www.education-info.com stated that the majority of
Five years ago on Oct. 7, Matthew Shepard, a gay University of Wyoming student, clung to life as he hung from a wooden fence on the windswept prairie. The victim of a brutal hate crime, Shepard left behind him a national trail of grief, shock, and protest when he died at Poudre Valley Hospital on Oct. 12. On that fateful night, Shepard left a Laramie bar with the two strangers who were to become his killers, Aaron McKinney and Russell Henderson. The men gained Shepard’s trust by telling him that they were also gay. Once the three men left the bar, Shepard was robbed, beaten, dragged to a deserted spot, tied to a fence and left to die. For activists and sup-
Jump to School, page a2
Jump to Shepard, page a2
opinion a6: Is it possible to have a true dress code in high school? a7: Is PSD’s new eligibilty policy for athletes too strict?
features b1: Reporters review and rate local thrift stores b3: Surgery to help Takahashi feel again
entertainment c1: Music piracy sweeps school c2: Thirteen depicts teenage life and peer pressure c4: Local Band: The Skandoms
rocky sports d1: Sports ethics are put under the microscope d2: Tennis team overcomes coaching controversy
CASSIE BOHLMANN, VANESSA FALGOUT , JAKE RUBIN
SCARECROW: The site where Matthew Shepard was beaten, tied, and left to die five years ago in Laramie, Wyo. The splitrail fence has come to symbolize the importance of tolerance for homosexuals.
Coping with homosexuality in high school by Sarah Rupert
Art Editor
“Queer,” “fag,” and “dyke.” These are terms that one might hear while walking through the halls of Rocky- especially if you’re gay.
Despite all the derogatory comments and stereotypes, senior Cody Dittmar has risen above it all and is one of the few openly gay teenagers in high school today. “I pretty much knew (I was gay) my whole life,
but I didn’t understand fully until 5th grade. I finally came out in 10th,” said Dittmar. “I believe people are born with their own sexuality.” Most gay students in high schools get teased and harassed for leading
Oktoberfest: A taste of the pleasures of Germany by Megan Buettgenbach
Reporter
When students think of Oktoberfest, they usually think of beer, bratwursts, and more beer. (Well, maybe root beer. After all, this is high school.) Ah, the pleasures of Germany.
I enjoy playing for the kids at Rocky Mountain. -Ray Stahla, Oktoberfest accordian player
Oktoberfest is today and takes place in the commons during lunch. The one thing that all students anticipate most
during this festivial is the accordion player, Ray Stahla. He has played the accordion for more than 50
years, and has enjoyed every minute of it. Stahla plays many different songs, but the most popular song is the chicken dance. “They always like the chicken dance,” said Stahla. “I enjoy playing for the kids at Rocky Mountain.”
COURTSEY OF JEN ROPER
CHICKEN DANCE: Accordion player Ray Stahla plays a tune. He will perform today at Oktoberfest.
a2: news
friday, oct. 10
page
News Editor: Vanessa Falgout
New gym a needed addition to campus by Erik Pinkston
Editor-in-chief
Next year, $1.8 million will give the school a much needed addition. A new gymnasium will be the first major addition since the 1994 upgrade. According to the administration, the upgrade could not come at a better time. “ I think it’s huge right now,” Assistant Principal Mike Roberts said. Currently, physical education classes are squished into too small of an area with too many students. The situation makes actual health education difficult. Roberts said. “We have a P.E. department that takes teaching seriously,” Roberts said. Athletic Director Wayne Moddelmog agrees that the current physical education pro-
gram is in a crisis. “We don’t have enough space for our health classes, and our P.E. needs an upgrade,” he said. In 1994 during the major reconstruction,the P.E. and Health wing was the only department that was not expanded excluding the weight room. “Our physical education is more of a priority,” Moddelmog said. “In my mind it’s more important than our athletics.”1 Second to the education program, the athletic program will be significantly benefit. “Currently, we send our lower level boys’ and girls’ basketball teams to Webber and Blevins to practice,” Moddelmog said. The new gym will give teams the ability to practice at Rocky. “More importantly, (the new gym) will give us the opportu-
AMY W HITE
nity to play all of our games here,” Moddelmog said. Currently, Rocky has the most crowded facilities of any high school in the district. “We’re the only high school without two usable gyms,” Moddelmog said. The new gym, which is being funded by bonds approved by voters, was supposed to be built in 2000, Moddelmog said. Development plans for the new gym are still being created. New gym ideas are expected to be similar to new gyms built at Blevins and Webber junior high schools. Plans are currently
Many disagree with homosexuality by Debra Williams
Reporter
Although some people disagree with the actions of gays and lesbians, most see the importance of respecting and loving all people, regardless of their lifestyles. Despite the threat of becoming politically incorrect, there are those who won’t budge on their beliefs regarding homosexuality. Beth Weber, youth leader at Grace Fellowship, is not afraid to voice her opinion on the subject. She is very open with people that she disagrees with homosexuality, yet maintains an attitude of love and respect for everyone. “You can be accepting of a person without being accepting of what they are doing,” Weber said. “I think that we should love the sinner and hate the sin. You can help someone more by loving them than by sitting
School
them down and telling them how wrong they are; Christianity is about the love of God, and hating people will never do any good.” There are other students within the school with similar opinions on same-sex relationships. “I feel that homosexuality is wrong, but I would never judge a person for being gay,” said Robert Holmes, sophomore. “Part of it is the way I grew up in church; that’s why I feel it’s wrong.” According to sophomore Mike Rodriguez, homophobia is a problem in high school that needs to be fixed. “People call gay people derogatory names,” Rodriguez said. “I am not too accustomed to being around gay people, but I don’t want to beat them up. They should be treated like everyone else. They are usually just people.”
“People discriminate against them,” Holmes said. “It’s like they are a whole different species, and if a person were gay, others wouldn’t be their friend. I think that they deserve equal treatment, the same as someone who is straight.” Weber believes that although all people should be loved and respected, not all actions are right, and she refuses to act as if they are. She maintains that because of the biblical punishment for sins, it is important to avoid condoning what she believes to be wrong actions. “I think that homosexuals are mistreated in high school, but not the way we think,” Weber said. “I think that they should be encouraged to be themselves, but not to have relationships with people of the same sex. The biggest thing that’s hurting homosexual teens is encouraging them to engage in homosexual activities.”
FROM PAGE A1
high school seniors take a progay attitude and that there is an increasing level of acceptance among teenagers. “From what I hear about other schools, it’s easier to come out at Rocky. It (teasing) hasn’t been that bad for me, but I know other people who have had a hard time with it,” Dittmar said. “I used to get teased, or people said some negative things to me, but not so much this year. I guess overall Rocky is pretty tolerant, but it could be more.” According to the Wildflower Resource Network, 65 percent of homosexual high school students experience some form of verbal or physical abuse in school. They also reported that most teachers don’t do anything when someone makes an anti-gay comment in their classes. “When people make jokes, the majority of the teachers don’t really try and stop it, they just laugh along or ignore it. Some teachers, though, do say it’s of-
fensive and say that it shouldn’t be said in school,” Dittmar said. Not only do teachers rarely discourage offensive language towards gay students, they also leave homosexuality out of health and sexual education courses. “Yes, they (teachers) definitely don’t talk about it. They hardly bring up the topic, and if it does come up, they just brush it off and don’t actually talk about it,” said Dittmar. Health teacher Roy Tripi commented, “I don’t think they’re (homosexual relation-ships) ignored. Ignored is a strong word. There isn’t a lot of focus put on that type of relationship, but I don’t think there is a need to focus on it as long as it’s a focus on good positive relationships, no matter heterosexual or homosexual.” Bringing more awareness of homosexual students is becoming more common at Rocky now. “There are probably more (gay
students) than people realize, but not a ton,” stated Dittmar. Because of this ignorance, students often don’t realize that what they say in the halls can be offensive. “If I had a buck for every time I heard someone say “dyke or fag” in the hall, I’d be a millionaire,” said senior Desiree Ducharme, who has noticed this lack of tolerance at Rocky. She is helping this by being ta leader in starting a Gay-Straight Alliance (GSA). With the new club policy on the horizon for the district, something she has fought for since her sophomore year, Ducharme can now actually be a club thanks to the sponsorship from English teacher Georgiana Jones. “It’s just a place where gay and straight people can get together and just talk about anything. It’s kind of like a support group. The main goal is to make homosexuality more accepted in our culture,” Dittmar said.
scheduled to be finalized by the end of the first semester,” Roberts said. Depending on the budget, Roberts hopes to further upgrade other school facilities. The new gyms recently constructed at Webber and Blevins cost less then $1 millon. If the new gym has a similar budget, almost a million dollars will be free for the school to use. Roberts has some ideas to use the excess cash. His ideas include a complete aerobics room and possibly a lecture area for P.E. classes. The school is working with
Shepard
GOODBYE DEAR PARKING LOT: Junior Tessa Farrell enters her car after school in the junior parking lot. Although conrstruction will not physically disrupt the junior lot,it will be impacted by the overflow of seniors trying to find a new space to park once construction begins on the new gym.
Poudre School District construction superintendent Tammy Simpson, Roberts said. Currently, the new gym is proposed to be built on the east side of the locker rooms, in a portion of the current senior parking lot. Ideally, disruption of school activities should be minimal, but currently there is no way of knowing, Roberts said. “I think it’ll be less difficult than in 1994,” Roberts said. “I’m not sure what entrances will be unusable.” A date has not yet been set for groundbreaking ceremonies.
FROM PAGE A1
-munity (gay, lesabian, bisexual, and transgendered), the murder provided a painful surge of realism. Such a blatant display of hatred breached the comfort zone of the city and the nation and changed its perception of humanity. “I couldn’t believe that a human would do that to another human. The bru-tality and callousness of it was what shocked me,” said Rocky parent and supporter of the GLBT community Wendy Thompson. “I cried; not even as a gay person, just as a person.” In response to the attack on their son, Judy and Dennis Shepard showed mercy to his killers; they chose not to pursue the death penalty. Instead, they opted to block out the hatred and founded the Matthew Shepard Foundation. The Foundation supports educational projects, activities, and documentaries that deal with discrimination and diversity issues. As a part of the foundation, Judy Shepard has become a national speaker, hoping to stop the ignorance that leads to hate through stories of her son. Locally, The Rev. Hal Chorpenning, senior minister of Plymouth Congregational Church in Fort Collins, also seeks to display a message of acceptance and equality. Plymouth welcomes people of all sexual orientations, and says, “We need to be open to them all, just as we are to different races and ethnicities,” said Chorpenning. “Traditionally, the church has been a major obstacle for homosexuals. As a minister, I am committed to removing those barriers,” Chorpenning said. Although Matthew Shepard’s murder sparked
controversy from radical religious groups who displayed their hatred publicly, it also served as motivation for GLBT groups. More than ever, it became apparent that the issue of homosexuality in society needed to be addressed. “I think Matthew’s murder got most people to think again and to examine their prejudices,” said Adam Bowen, president of a local GLBT organization, the Lambda Community Center. “It is arguably the beginning of our current era where gays and lesbians have won more mainstream acceptance.” With community members who fight daily for GLBT rights, society is now closer than ever to acceptance of homosexuality; however, homosexuals still aren’t granted basic human rights that many take for granted. “The hardest thing is not freely being able to show my affection,” said Thompson. “Although there’s no one physically stopping me, there’s the possibility of crude comments and people ogling me.” Bowen agrees that society’s concept of acceptance is still not at the level it should be. “In some circles, gay equals cool,” said Bowen. “Still, when we talk about living openly, how openly is that really? It’s not unusual to see a boy-girl kiss in the hallways of any high school, but how often do you see a same-gender kiss?” Local GLBT leaders hope that the Matthew Shepard incident, if anything, has drawn awareness to the subtle yet powerful intolerance of homosexuality in our society. “My hope is that it provides a continuing reminder that we need to create safe spaces, especially for GLBT youth,” said Chorpenning.
a3
friday, oct. 10
News Editor: Vanessa Falgout
page
Senior yearbook quotes challenge staff, adviser by Steven Beck
Contributer
From romance to advice, to lyrics from a favorite songe, senior quotes are meant to be fun and open-ended. For the yearbook staff, however, they can be a one-on-one battle between what somone wants and what is acceptable for school. “(We are) about doing something classy and cool,” said the yearbook adviser Rick Takahashi. “[We are] concerned that kids will put in something that would be negative towards us (yearbook staff).” For years there have been those select few who try to sneak in some type of message or innuendo that may create a slight controversy. One year the significance of “4:20” became a hot topic in some senior quotes.
“Pot smoking” references were undetected because of the semblance of “4:20,” Bob Marley’s birthday. This made Senior Quotes Senior Pictures the yearbook ❑ Quotes must be appropriate and ❑ 2x3 glossy staff all the can only be 108 words long. more educated ❑ Turn into Takahashi’s ❑ Turn into Takahashi’s box by November 1, 2003 and cautious of box by November 1, 2003 what came in to the editing rooms. Jordan Bowman, yearbook and attacks towards other peoeditor, clarified that, “it’s usu- ple in any way. Subject matter ally a small percent of people like this is malicious because it that try something ‘mischie- could offend people, be inapprovous,’ but there are mostly just priate for the yearbook, and the abbreviations of something con- yearbook staff may be frowned cerning a certain group of upon. “There isn’t any procedure refriends that is harmless.” ally,” said Takahashi of the quote The main things that the edireview. “The editors just sit tors are looking for in senior down and read all the quotes to quotes are sexual comments, look for any grammatical erdrug and alcohol references,
seniordeadlines
Unger forced to resign by Kyle Herman
Asst. News Editor Superintendent Don Unger has been asked by the district Board of Directors to resign, effective Dec. 31 of this year. The school board announced its decision to the public on Sept. 24, but other than the decision to force Unger to resign, no other information was made public. Board Vice President Jana Ley was one of the board members who voted against Unger’s resignation. “The evidence that was brought forward did not support an action of this severity,” said Ley. “I disagree with the process that we used to go about making this decision.” Ley and director David Dilley were the only two board members to vote against Unger’s resignation, but five other directors, including Garth Rogers, voted for it. When asked why he voted for Unger’s resignation, Rogers had no answer that he was willing to make public. Rogers said that people seem to think this was a quick decision, when in reality it was not. “We had lots of meetings, and have been discussing this since April,” said Rogers. When asked why Dilley and
Ley voted against Unger’s resignation, Rogers said: “David Dilley is relatively new to the board and didn’t have enough information to make that big of a decision for (Unger’s) resignation. Jana (Ley) felt the same way.” Unger has worked for PSD for 33 years, and recently has been in charge of the PSD restructuring, which has affected many people in PSD. Former Rocky Assistant Principal Nancy Sebring lost her district adminstrative job last year due to the district restructuring and now has a job at Castle Rock. “The central office directors told me in mid-February that Dr. Unger was developing a restructuring plan for the support services center. Personally, I decided I needed to look for a postition in another district to advance my career.” said Sebring. The restructuring of the district has left Sebring’s family in a difficult position. Sebring works in Castle Rock, but her family lives here. She comes home on the weekends and her daughter and husband visit her once a month. Sebring’s daughter, junior Dana Sebring, blames Unger, and says that his resignation
is a good thing. “All I should say is that he got what he deserved,” said Dana. Although times have been challenging for the Sebring family, Nancy may end up working in this district again. “I think my next career move will be to a superintendent position some point in the future. At this point, I don’t know where that will be; readiness and opportunity have to align.” Unger’s resignation does not go into effect until Dec. 31, but he says he will work hard until then. “I want nothing more than for this district to keep moving forward. There is no reason for turmoil, and I will continue to work hard through Dec. 31,” said Unger. Many issues still need to be made public about Unger ’s forced resignation until people can make a sound decision on whether or not it was a smart decision, but Rogers, Ley, and Unger all agree that the school district is in fine shape. Said Ley, “Ultimately, we will be fine. There is always a period of grief, but we are in very good shape, and Dr. Unger is working hard to make a good environment for whoever comes next.”
FROM PAGE A 1
Clubs
Kolstoe feels that the change would be very positive. “I think it opens more opportunities for students,” she said. Social studies teacher Tom List agrees, pointing out problems in the closed forum policy. “We’re not abiding by the closed forum and we’re using it to discriminate,” he said. “If (the proposed club) is a group that we as a staff would like, we can bend the rules to make it happen. And that’s not right,” he said. Allowing students to create
clubs that are not school-related can be risky. The closed forum system is much more stringent, List says. However, List feels that the restrictions placed on the open forum will significantly limit any such groups from forming. “I like the red tape,” he said. Kolstoe agrees. Strict limitations set forth in the proposition state that student-initiated clubs would not disrupt or threaten to disrupt orderly operation of the school. Applications have been given
out to representatives from the Gay Straight Alliance(GSA), as well as Young Life, Ultimate Frisbee and Chess Club. Kolstoe doesn’t foresee problems arising with any of the groups. “My guess is that all of our groups are going to be supported as long as they follow the law,” she said. “It’s okay for people to have different points of view.” Applications for studentinstated clubs are available in Kolstoe’s office.
AMY WHITE
DROP-OFF: Senior Alex Nickel turns in his quote to the box in the Media Center. Senior quotes are due by Nov. 1, 2003, as well as senior portraits.
rors.” In the instance that something comes up, the yearbook policy is that the person who turned in the quote is contacted, usually by Takahashi, and the issue is talked through and solved positively. When asked if there was any thought of discontinuing the senior quotes, Takahashi reassuringly said “no” and that it was a great tradition and will continue.
In the big scheme of things, “the yearbook is looking for something tasteful and fun that everyone can enjoy, since these will be the items most looked at by seniors throughout the entire yearbook,” Takahashi said. Also keep in mind that, “if you don’t drop a quote into the qoute box, you will get the infamous ‘CLASS OF 2004’ printed under your picture.”
District restructuring personal for former teacher by Megan Buettgenbach
Reporter
For some, the Poudre School District restructuring is more than just a cost saving process - it’s personal. Former art teacher Joy Farinelli lost her job due last spring to the PSD restruction plan. “I was shocked. I didn’t really see it coming,” said Farinelli. “I was extremely disappointed. I loved my job at Rocky.” According to the PSD website, “PSD, like many other school districts in Colorado, is facing budget reductions due to declining student enrollment, the state budget crisis, and the weak economy.” It is partially because of this problem that many teachers did not get rehired this year. “When 17 curriculum and staff development positions were eliminated in district restructuring, the PSD personnel department asked each of us (district coordinators) to identify schools where we would like to teach,” said art teacher Tom Balchak. Balchak has worked in PSD for 23 years, and even though he has been moved to the art department, he still retains his former job as PSD visual arts coordinator. It all has to do with tenure. Teachers who did not have tenure, meaning they have worked for PSD for three years and one
I was extremely disappointed that I lost my job at Rocky. I loved the kids, and the people I worked with. -Joy Farinelli, former art teacher
day and have become an official employee of PSD, had the possibility of getting “bumped” during the restruction of PSD jobs. “The uncertainty of last year was the difficult part,” Balchak said, “and having your job eliminated wasn’t the most pleasant experience; but whatever the circumstances, I’m grateful for the opportunity I have at Rocky.” As for Farinelli, who worked at Rocky for two years, “I was extremely disappointed that I lost my job at Rocky. I loved the kids, and the people I worked with.” Farinelli continues to work as a substitute teacher, though it still has its drawbacks. “I don’t have health insurance, or a retirement fund,” said Farinelli. “I work day to day, and I have no steady income. Now I worry about things.” When asked about how she felt about losing her job, Farinelli replied, “I don’t have hard feelings for Rocky. It’s the best school in the district.”
A social connection for gay, lesbian, bisexual, and questioning youth ages 15-20 Meets every Wednesday 4PM at Lambda Community Center Call (970) 221-3247 or check out calendar of events at www.lambdacenter.org
a4: news
friday, oct. 10
page
News Editor: Vanessa Falgout
Seniors prepare for college Seniors begin researching colleges, asking for letters, filling out apps by Amy White
Reporter
Senior Brenna Loury has already spent more than $250 on college applications. Loury’s goal is to be accepted and have an idea of where she will be going by the end of October. “I’m applying early, because I want to know in advance what my plans are going to be,” said Loury. Though Loury may be an exception to the entire graduating class, she thinks all seniors need to get their act together and take advantage of the opportunities our school offers. Many opportunities for students to interact with colleges on more of a personal basis include attending in-state college fairs
RECRUIT: This PSD student is talking to an Army recruiter at the in-state college fair last month at Rocky. Attending college fairs is one step towards finding out which schools to apply to.
checklist Steps for college-bound seniors to follow for college planning ❑ Attend college fairs ❑ Visit universities or community colleges ❑ Fill out applications by Halloween ❑ Write college essays and resumes ❑ Request letters of recommendation ❑ Pay attention to application dates ❑ Relax ❑ Make a good decision
and out-of-state college fairs. Flyers are going to be posted around the school to inform students of the days colleges will be coming. This gives colleges the chance to look over student letters, resumes, transcripts, etc. sometimes students may even be ac-
SARAH RUPERT
cepted on the day of interaction. “Start planning now, because it’s complicated as hell. If you want to avoid stress and anxiety later, start talking to your counselors early,” said Loury. “And, study hard for your ACT’s and SAT’s.” Leah Kapral, who is the student resource secretary, also agrees that students should start
applying early. “I have already applied to Ganzaga WA, Berkeley, CU, Santa Clara University, University of WA, and the University of Puget Sound in Tacoma WA,” said Loury. “I just really advise students to visit colleges, and start your planning. Make a check list and delete stuff as you go. You’ll be happy you did.”
Parents at fault for increase of childhood obesity Erik Pinkston What Sex Appeal? problems. Of all this information, perhaps the worst is yet to come. Researchers have predicted that generation “y” is likely to be the first generation in American history to have a shorter life expectancy than the generation before it. A recent poll by the Harvard School of Public Health shows that over 90 percent of all adults would favor schools taking
action to educate and assist children and their obesity problems. That same study also shows that 58 percent of adults would favor government censorship of junk food advertisements aimed at children. Also, 41 percent of adults would favor a special tax on junk food items. Where does this study show that 66 - or whatever- percent of parents would favor going up to their children and saying, “GET OUT OF THAT CHAIR, GO OUTSIDE AND PLAY SOME BALL?” It is completely absurd to blame the advertising companies on the fattening of children. Sure, certain commercials may prompt Jane Shmoe to ask her mother for Super Sugar Frosted
Chocolate Malt Ball Cereal, but that doesn’t mean her mom has to buy it for her. Honestly, where are the parents? This is the largest growing problem in America, and parents are out looking for a scapegoat. Parents need to force their children to be physically active, and force them to eat their veggies and fruits instead of watermelon flavored sugar cubes. This problem is not companies advertising to children; the problem is not schools. The problem exists in children not being taught how to eat healthy. But how can they be taught that when their own parents don’t eat healthy? TV and magazines are littered with “get thin fast” schemes that will beef up your sex life and trim down your tummy, all while watching Oprah and eating Pork Rinds. Parents need to face up to the growing problem. The answer is in themselves. They need to teach their children good eating and excerise habits. Their children are not gaining anything but weight. Erik Pinkston is a senior and Editor-in-Chief of the Highlighter.
The Rocky Mountain Highlighter placed 2nd among large-school newspapers in the 2003 Colorado High School Press Association Newspaper Sweepstakes competition, announced Tuesday at the annual Journalism Day at Colorado State University. The Highlighter, sweepstakes title winners in 2002 and 2001, could not make it three in a row as it finished behind Grand Junction’s Orange & Black in the 5A division of the competition, considered the state championships for high school newspapers. Grand Junction finished 2nd to the Highlighter in both 2002 and 2001. In individual judged sweepstakes categories, the Highlighter placed second in General Excellence, first in Staff Editorial (Marisa Beahm), first in News Photograph (Beahm and Leigh Pogue), first in Facing Pages/Centerfold (Megan Wahlfeldt, Jake Rubin, Kym Williams, Matt Hergett, and Pogue), second in Sports Photograph (Erik Pinkston and Hergett), second in Graphic Illustration (Rubin), second in Head-lines (Kevin Doss, Pogue, Beahm, and Hergett), third in Front Page Layout (Pogue, Wahlfeldt, and Beahm), honorable mention in Personal Opinion Column (Beahm), hon-orable mention in Critical Review (Umber Bawa), and honorable mention in Advertising (Kristen Frank). “It was exciting to win an individual award and to know that I contributed towards making our paper great,” said Rubin, who is now a senior and Highlighter Entertainment Editor. “We’re hoping that this year’s paper and staff can live up to these high standards.” The first Highlighter issue of this year also was entered in a Best of Show comp-etition, placing 2nd in the 5A division behind Long-mont’s Trojans News. “The Highlighter had a scrappy staff last year and this year’s looks every bit as strong,” said adviser Stephen Wahlfeldt.
of Prou RM nd HS sp vo ons lle ors yb all
They blame the video games, they blame the schools. They even blame the advertising agencies. But, they just can’t blame themselves. Of course they can’t. It’s not the American way. Or maybe, they don’t see it. After all, their children are getting just as fat as they are. Twice as many children today are classified as ‘obese’ than almost 25 years ago. Move over cancer. Recently, obesity has been classified as one of the most serious diseases currently faced by the American people. Studies have been done showing that 65 percent of all Americans are overweight enough to cause serious health
Highlighter places 2nd in state event
Lunch Special: 2 slices & a soda - $3
New skate park sure to attract crowds with urban setting by Mike Schneider
Contributer
Whether people are mad about skate boarding or mad about skate boarders ruining public property, good news is on its way. At noon on Oct. 18th the 100acre Fossil Creek Park opens to the public. The park is located on Harmony and Trilby, directly across from the Southridge Golf Course. The new park includes a top-of-the line urban skate park, which should attract large numbers of young skate boarders as well as bikers and rollerbladers. Many agree that there was a high demand for more skate terrain. “The park at Aztlan was pretty rag-tag,” said senior Brian Cynkar. “Once Edora built one, it was top of the line but also really crowded.” With a fairly large youth skating population, Fort Collins definitely made the right choice to incorporate skating facilities with the new park. “It’s great anytime the city steps up and fills the gap,” said Cynkar. “We didn’t have enough space to skate in a city this size.” The new park will consist mainly of urban obstacles that one could find while skating around downtown or while outside if the local movie theater.
a5
friday, oct. 10
News Editor: Vanessa Falgout
page
Get out of the
Cold
SARAH RUPERT
SKATE: Senior David Skradski takes a test run on the new skate park. The park is located at Fossil Creek Park and is set to officially open in October. 18,2003.
“I think that kids will like the urban setting because it’s something different,” said senior park planner Kathleen Benedict. The skate park at Fossil Creek will be around 5,600 square feet, which is approximately 12,000 square feet smaller than Edora’s 18,000 square foot park. The construction cost for the new skate park was $120,000, which was substantially less than Edora’s, coming in at $340,000. Included are somewhere around eight sets of stairs ranging from one to nine steps. Other amenities include a water gap ledge and different types of ledges and benches. Edora’s features are completely different and include items such as a clo-
verleaf bowl and a snake run. With the new skate park on the brink of its grand opening, business owners and city employees should be nothing less than a little bit happier. “I think it will be pretty nice because we can go there instead of destroy public property,” said junior Kevin Izard. “However it’s pretty far and younger kids might still have to use public areas close to home.” Cynkar thinks that the construction of the new skate park shows that skating is beccoming very popular. “It just goes to show that skate boarding is finally recognized by the city as a popular youth activity,” said Cynkar.
Wa arrm m up toda today y with Tr Transfort. ansfort. Ride Transfort to school and stop by the Drive Less Contest table for a FREE prize.
October 13 - 24, 2003
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Furry friend contributes to school’s diversity Students, staff go nuts over squirrelly addition to courtyard’s ecosystem
MR. HOWDY: The squirrel– affectionately named Mr. Howdy by senior Brittany Davis– basks in the sunlight on a courtyard bench. His addition to the school has stirred curiosity amongst the students as well as the staff members. He can be found on most school days from 9 to 5.
by Kyle Herman
Asst. News Editor
The population of Rocky was disclosed to students in the last issue of the Highlighter with a bitter and terrible mistake. The data given on the student population was one number too low. The males and females were counted correctly, but what the Highlighter didn’t take into account was the squirrel in the courtyard. The squirrel lives its life in the courtyard. Students feed it nuts, bread, and anything else they can’t finish at lunch. Its “courtyard buddies” include a frog, some fish, and a duck. The (at times) quiet courtyard has become a utopia for the squirrel, with it’s many free meals, water, and trees. Many students and teachers have noticed the squirrel going about its life and have wondered just what it’s like to be the squirrel in the courtyard. The squirrel, whom senior Brittany Davis named “Mr. Howdy,” has played an important role in the school’s diversity. Language arts teacher Joan Ruberry says, “We need to respect the diversity that the squirrel brings to Rocky.” In addition to the diversity, the squirrel has also been beneficial to Rocky’s educational
JAKE R UBIN
process. “We can learn a lot from the squirrel; I wish some of my students had the same intellectual curiosity as the squirrel,” said Ruberry. Education is one thing that senior Chris English thinks the squirrel is good for. “The zoology class could use it for experimenting,” said English. Although the squirrel is a very popular animal in our ecosystem, some people are concerned for its mental health. “I think the squirrel is lonely, and lately I am concerned about it. We need to get it a life partner,” said Ruberry. English agrees with Ruberry about the loneliness of the squirrel. “I think we should get it a life
partner. If it chooses a same-sex life partner, then that’s okay with me; it’s the squirrel’s business,” said English. Other students are more concerned about how the squirrel plans to survive the winter without its usual diet of nuts and berries. “The squirrel needs to eat. I would suggest anything that contains high fiber. Squirrels need fiber,” said senior Gerardo Fremaint. English has other suggestions. “On occasion I have fed it a bagel or two,” said English. Whether or not the squirrel survives the harsh winter, it should know that it has the full support of the school. Says Fremaint, “The squirrel is like a mini-lobo.”
Please Recycle This Newspaper
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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. Ft. Collins, CO 80526. Contact Highlighter staff members at 416-7090 or (970) 416-7091 for advertising information. Also, the Highlighter Staff is in the Highlighter Room, Room 528, during 4th period. Erik Pinkston/Editor-in-Chief Courtney Mohr/Advertising Mgr. Mellissa Tree/Advertising Mgr. Kelly Reingardt/Features Editor Steve Turney/Sports Editor Joey Murphey/Asst. Sports Editor Vanessa Falgout/News Editor Kyle Herman/Asst. News Editor Jake Rubin/Entertainment Editor Sarah Rupert/Art Editor Cassie Bohlmann/Reporter Megan Buettenbach/Reporter Marlys Merrill/Reporter Heather Stevens/Reporter Amy White/Reporter Debra Williams/Reporter Steven Beck/Contributor Mariam Habiballa/Contributor Mike Schneider/Contributor Mr. Stephen Wahlfeldt/Adviser
Colorado High School Newspaper Sweepstakes 2nd place - 2003 1st place - 2002 1st place - 2001 2nd place - 1996 1st place - 1992 2nd place - 1991 2nd place - 1990 1st place - 1987
National Scholastic Press Association National Critique All American, 5 Marks of Distinction - 2003 All American, 4 Marks of Distinction - 2002 All American, 5 Marks of Distinction - 2001 All American, 4 Marks of Distinction - 2000 All American, 4 Marks of Distinction - 1999
Columbia Scholastic Press Association National Critique Silver Crown - 2002 Gold Medalist - 2002 Gold Medalist - 2001 Gold Medalist - 2000 Gold Medalist - 1999
Highlighter Editorial Policy The Rocky Mountain Highlighter is a student news publication which strives to report school an community events with truth, accuracy, objectivity and clarity. The 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. 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 that the editor agrees 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 Highlighter staff member, Highlighter adviser Stephen Wahlfeldt, or drop them by the Highlighter room, Room 528, during 4th period. Columnists express their own views and not necessarily those of the Highlighter staff. No expression made by the students of the Rocky Mountain Highlighter shall be considered an expression of 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. The Rocky Mountain Highlighter reserves the right to edit anything it publishes.
friday, oct. 10
opinion
Dress code policy challenges all ately, school has seemed like a twisted voyage through an Abercrombie and Fitch catalog. We cannot help but wonder where have the clothes gone? Where has the dress code gone? Gentlemen’s pants seem to be plunging to dangerous depths along with ladies’ necklines. More skin is “in” and dress code enforcement is “out.” After an impassioned deliberation, we have agreed that it is virtually impossible to The Issue: enforce an absolute dress code policy in a high school environment. Students According to the dress code policy, as are struggling stated on page six of the student handbook, to cover up the intention of the code it to create a professional enviornment for the students by eliminating distracting attire and appearance. The handbook also indicates that it is in the hands of staff members to officially determine what a violation of the dress code is. Though this is an understandable concept, there are a few kinks to this policy. One key factor that must be taken into consideration is that the students cannot be blamed for the fact that the fashions available currently are considerably skimpy and tight fitting, or in the case of gentlemen, Our View: baggy. Nonetheless, it may be the objective of a It is impossible select few to dress in such a suggestive to enforce manner, but the general student population the dress code in a is merely trying to cope with what is modern high available to them. The average student school setting does not have the time or patience to given search in every store for an article of society;’s clothing that follows the dress code. With current fashion this notion in mind, how is it possible to trends determine whether inappropriate dress was done deliberately or if the offending attire was all that was available to the student? The answer: It is ultimately unfeasible. Not only is it difficult for instructors to determine the purpose of unsuitable attire, the staff member also has to overcome a sense of awkwardness when addressing a student about their clothing. Is it appropriate for a male staff member to inform a female student that her skirt is too short or her top is too low cut? Is it appropriate for a female staff member to inform a male student that his pants are too low? Our answer for this issue is straightforward. The dress code is outdated and void for this generation. Despite this fact, students should make an attempt to dress themselves in an appropriate manner the best they can. It is important to express individuality and comfort, but how far do we need to go in a learning environment?
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What do you think? ...about the school dress code It needs to be better enforced. They enforce it on some people but not others. Some teachers are more strict. -Kayla Peterson, junior
PETERSON
I think the current dress code is adequate. It’s well spelled out. The power is that it was designed not by teachers or administrators but by stu-Mr. Waterman, chemistry teacher dents. WATERMAN
I don’t think it’s strict at all. Most of the things kids are wearing are fine, there are only a few kids who dress inappropriate. -Stephen Rolland, sophomore
ROLLAND
American beauty: Sexuality placed before Intelligence At times, I look around the commons and ask a friend if there has been a sudden shortage of cloth. It seems that America is quickly running out of cotton, because clothing is becoming smaller and smaller. It is common for women to wear as little as possible and claim that they do it “because they like it.” I, personally, believe that there is more subconcious reasoning for the lack of modesty in American society than most realize. Women are subtley told to base their worth off of physical appearence and sexuality, rather than integrity and intelligence, through the use of advertisements. The United States is the mecca of advertisements. Women are constantly viewing a plethora of images telling them they are not thin
Debra Williams Freak on Parade enough, not beautiful enough, and not good enough to be valuable. The photographs gracing the covers of magazines are flawless, petite, near nude, and totally airbrushed! Even models, when walking down the street, don’t look like models. The beauty that we see
in photographs are a stillshot of a single moment in someones life, and that kind of beauty if fleeting. Although the pictures are completely unrealistic, they have become the ideal. Because we see these scaresly clothed women almost everywhere we look, the clothing they wear begins to seem normal and beautiful. Through these photographs, I have learned that being nearly naked, wearing ten pounds of makeup a day, and having anorexia or bulimia are beautiful, but natural modesty is not. Please understand I am not trying to point a finger at anyone; I know some people wear revealing clothing simply because there is very little else out there. Finding covering
attire is time consuming and stressful, but I know it’s possible, and I believe it is worth it. I want to remind you that you vote with your spending money: what you buy is what they make. If we stopped spending money on skimpy clothing, Fort Collins business owners would begin to sell something more modest. Women buy skimpy clothes because their subconscience is told, through media images, that the lack of clothes is customary and will make them feel beautiful. But in reality, women will never feel accepted until they accept themselves. Debra Williams is a senior reporter for the Highlighter.
op/ed
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friday, oct. 10
Strict rules needed to end inapproriate behavior from athletes
Punishment needs needs to be a learning experience to grow from
Student athletes all around the district have a new eligibility policy to follow this year. Recently, the rules regarding the misuese of drugs, alcohol steroids and smoking have changed for student athletes. Penalties for breaking the policy are now more severe. Last year the policy left the punishment up to the coaches. Usually, if a student was caught breaking the eliigibility guidlines they were suspended for one game. Now this is not the case. The Poudre School District has enacted a new policy stating the althlete will be suspended for 30 percent of the regular season games. If there is a second offense, the athlete is suspended for 50 percent of the regular season games. If a third violation is commited then the athlete is suspended from high school sports for the rest of his or her high school career. These rules are more severe than last years rules, and I say it is about time. We have let too many athletes get away with these offenses without significant punishment. With these new rules our athletes are starting to see that they have to get their act together. These rules also provide a way for the district to watch the punishments of athletes. We are not going to see a person get let off without punishment on one team, and have another student get kicked off another team. We finally have a set of rules which are going to make everyone compete on the same playing field. It is about time. These rules provides a great sense of balance between the sports. I say that these rules should be strictly enforced. We need to make sure that all athletes are being treated like the high school athletes they are. Remember, “ Don’t do the crime if you can’t do the time.” -Kelly Reingardt
Rules and regulations for illegible athletes involved with drugs or alcohol has buckeled down the punishment this year. Obeying the rules is somewhat simple, you would think. Although, according to the Authorization of alcohol and drugs in Senior High Schools from Time magazine, 70 percent or more students do involve themselves in harmful situations. The first violation includes a 30 percent suspension for the rest of the season. Think about it. You mess up one time, and boom. The rest of your season is affected. If that doesn’t sound harsh enough, the second violation, according to the dis- trict, suspends you from 50 percent of the regular season’s contests. Don’t get me wrong, I do think some sort of consequence should take place. Everyone makes mistakes. Coaches should be there as a back up parent to set their players straight. Coaches are suppose to be the mentors of the sports we play and punishments should be more of a learning experience, teaching the right, instead of focusing on the wrong. If a third violation is given, you will loose the right to participate in all athletics of your entire high school career. Think if you were a freshman, and messed up for the third time. You are done with sports for the rest of your life. How severe and informing are the facts about athletes involved with drugs and alcohol? A friend of mine was suspended from a game last year, because she was at a party taking care of her belligerent friends. The line between rules and ethics are being flirted with. We’re all just young adults learning to make good choices. Bare with us. -Amy White
Student disagrees with writer’s view Dear Editor, I’ll be the first to admit that I’m a cardcarrying liberal who doesn’t support the foreign policy of our current presidential administration. However, that is not to say I agree with your column. You use the same logic as Bush, referring to terrorism as some sort of evil force, when in reality terrorism is something that has been present in every nationalist revolution since the beginning of nationalist revolutions.
Sam Adams, a man who was very important to the American Revolution, had a grand old time dragging British loyalists out into the street to be tarred and feathered. That act is certainly classifiable as terrorism. Many a free society around the world wouldn’t exist if people hadn’t had the guts to get out there and use violent acts to get rid of their perceived oppressors. However, that’s not to say I agree with what groups like Al-Qaeda are doing. Al-Qaeda isn’t out there trying to promote any sort of freedom; they simply are recruiting young, angry men to kill people so Osama Bin Laden’s vision of a Talaban-ized Middle
readerinput East can come to fruition. Secondly, the comment that we are terrorists because U.S. troops are in other countries where they have been “repeatedly asked to leave” is baseless. There are issues with our troops in South Korea, Germany, Iraq and a number of other places, but the acting governments of these countries have not asked our troops to leave. Iraq may not really have an acting government at the moment due to our little “Operation Iraqi Freedom,” but
that’s a different issue entirely. While it’s ludicrous to support the Bush administration’s justification for the war (I believe it was that Saddam Hussein’s regime spelled a clear and present danger to the U.S.), military action to get rid of Saddam had to be undertaken sooner or later. The correct justification for military intervention should have been that Saddam was such an impotent despot that his country was about to some apart at the seams, leaving Iraq with a civil war between Shi’ites, Kurds, and Sunnis that would make Afghanistan look like a tea party. If that unrest were to destabilize somewhere
con side
pro side
Rules of athletic eligibility more strict
like Saudi Arabia, which the global economy depends on for cheap oil, we could see a potential worldwide stock market crash that would leave millions without jobs. A war to keep a system as flawed as our vaunted “global economy” up and running is certainly callous, but it’s the reality of the world we’re living in. Pacifism is simply not an effective political viewpoint when it comes to foreign policy, because there are always going to be situations that can only be resolved with violent confrontations. That’s simply human nature and will never change. Gabe Morrissey, senior
When products become ‘too good to be true’ We have all heard the phrase “too good to be true.” Lately consumer products have gotten so good, they can’t be improved, yet major corporate executives are trying make them better, despite this pinnacle of greatness. Razor blades are now amongst the elite of consumer products, for they have become so good, they can no longer be improved. It used to be that when a guy (or girl) shaved, a razor blade would get close enough to the skin to make the hair almost completely gone. Since then, they have been “achieving greatness” so much that it no longer burns, and there are 600
Kyle Herman Guest Column blades so that every blade gets a little closer to the skin to make the shave completely soft, like a baby’s bottom. But now it seems they have gone over board. Not only can you get the closest shave in your lifetime, but you may never
have to shave again. The blades are so close to your skin that, along with the hair, they also take off a layer of skin for the extra-super shave, creating that red bloody look that all of us are going for in the morning. Another item that has reached its highest possible quality is the watch. Watches have now so many gadgets that it’s almost impossible to find out what time it really is. Inside these new watches are things that measure how many feet above sea level you are, and what your pulse is, and where you left your car keys when you came home late last night. Watches are now
peering into your personal lives. I wouldn’t be surprised if in 20 years, it is revealed that the Timex is owned and operated by Russian spies that are trying to learn more about the weaknesses of Americans. The most popular consumer item that is officially too good is the cell phone. With its 600 different choices for rings, and cameras hidden inside; and that was last year’s model. This year’s new mode has a game system with all color, a time piece, (who needs watches now?) a microwave, a popcorn maker, and a professional chef. This item has gone way to far, almost as if it is evolving. The
phone is no longer something to buy as a communication device. Now its something to buy as a cooking/cleaning/ nuclear weapons (yeah, I went there) device. These are just a few examples of items that are just too good. I want the old stuff, like a razor blade that does nothing except hurt, a watch that only tells time, and a T.V. that plays only old reruns of the same show over and over again. Someone should get right on this. I would but my cell phone just sprouted legs. Senior Kyle Herman is the assistant news editor for the Highlighter.
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Page Editor: Erik Pinkston
photofocus
Friday, October 10
LITTLE DRUMMER BOY..ER..GIRL: Senior Jamie Sugarman is dressed as a drummer for the Union from the Civil War. She is portraying a male member of the Army. Below, a replica of a Civil War shelter tent, such as those used by soldiers.
Teaching lessons in Civil War history Students in independent study class learn by teaching by Sarah Rupert and Debra Williams
Art Editor/Reporter
Students who are interested in the past share their passion with elementary school kids. The independent study class, Civil War Living History, is taught by history teacher Kurt Knierim. Although the class has been available at Rocky for four years, Knierim has been teaching the class for two. “It (the class) allows students to go beyond the textbook and ‘live’ history,” Knierim said. The students involved in this program find it fulfilling for many reasons, such as the
thank-you cards they receive from the children they perform for, and the way it brings history to life. “It’s awesome because you are actualy doing it, you can visualize things better,” said senior Amber Camus. The reenactment has been held in Fort Collins for 21 years. On the days of Sept. 25 and 26, 4th graders from different elementary schools took field trips to the Fort Collins Museum in Old Town for presentations and activities outlining some of the important events and stories in Colorado and American history. READY, AIM, FIRE!: Left and below, senior Ian Thompson (left) and junior Jonathan Fanning (right) practice drills and salutes for 4th graders. These imitation soldiers are representing opposing sides of the Civil War.Thompson is dressed as a Confederate soldier, and Fanning is in the uniform of a Union soldier.
Photos by Sarah Rupert
I FEEL PRETTY, OH SO PRETTY: Seniors Jessica Ebert (left) and Amber Camus (right) explain to their audience the customary dress of women in Civil War times. Camus is explaining all the layers women had to wear under their dresses.
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Features Editor: Kelly Reingardt
Friday, October 10
Vanessa Falgout
Thrift
I Can’t Get My Hair Color Right
Dodge ball root of all evil today Deep in the heart of America’s playgrounds lurks an evil responsible for contributing to the downfall of American society. Many have postulated that the government and the media are to blame, but I know it goes beyond that. The source of the decline in human decency strikes as early as childhood. Children spend the beginning of their youth shrouded in innocence until the day they are introduced to the epidemic that has swept our nation’s schools and parks for several generations. Appropriately dubbed as dodge ball, this classic, but heinous, children’s game is the entity in question. Dodge ball, a game of absolute power and carnage, has simple rules which are both easy to follow and explain. This activity generally takes place on the blacktop either on a chalkedin circle or on a basketball court. Standing along the perimeter (or circumference) of the designated playing area are the pseudo-alphachildren. Pseudo-alpha-children, or A-kids, are typically male, have the most permanent teeth and muscle mass and receive the most valentines on Valentine’s Day. With ridiculously large, red rubber balls in hand, the Akids surround the next group of children who are known as the pseudo-beta-children, or B-kids. B-kids are the victims of this atrocious pastime. These unfortunate children are generally either males who enjoy classic novels, such as War and Peace, and receive no cards on Valentine’s Day, or they are females who deliver the Valentine’s Day cards in question and see no purpose to this game because they are stuck in the middle with the unattractive males. After the setup is complete, the A-kids then proceed to forcefully launch their ammo (the red balls) into the middle, directing it towards the Bkids. The B-kids are then expected to either dodge the incoming balls or catch the hurtling spheres and attempt to send a counterattack to the
by Debra Williams and Cassie Bohlmann
Reporters
GRAPHIC BY JAKE RUBIN
Wear it Again, Sam Price Range: $4-400
Price Range: $2-400
Location : 140 S. College
Location : 239 Linden Street
Clothing Style: From 1800s
Clothing Style: Varies
Something Special: Very unique items
Something Special: $2 sale rack
Staff Friendliness: ★★★ (out of five)
Staff Friendliness: ★★★★ (out of five)
Overall rating: ★★★★ (out of five)
Overall rating: ★★★★ (out of five)
ARC Thrift Store
Mint Clothing Exchange
Price Range: $.25-50
Price Range: $1.50-45
Location : 106 E. Foothills Parkway
Location : 702 S. College Clothing Style: Modern Styles
Clothing Style: Varies greatly
Something Special: New and used
Something Special: Profits to handicaped Staff Friendliness: ★★ (out of five) Overall rating: ★★★★ (out of five)
surveysays 43%
of Rocky students get scared only sometimes
25%
of students are scared of heights
28%
30%
of students say that haunted houses are the scariest thing about halloween of Rocky students have aracnaphobia (fear of spiders)
287students surveyed
Jump to Falgout, page b2
Repeat Boutique
Staff Friendliness: ★★★ (out of five) Overall rating: ★★★★ (out of five)
At an age when individuality is an essential part of life, teenagers are turning to thrift stores to find items that will set them apart. Wanting to escape from the high prices and uniformity of popular chain stores, junior Randall Stone shops at ARC, a large thrift department store located off of Drake and College. “Easily 45 percent of my clothes are from thrift stores. My favorite thrift store is ARC because their selection is so wide and they’re cheap,” DEBRA WILLIAMS said Stone. “The TRASH TO TREASURE: Bins of clothes there are so strange; it’s just sale clothes at Mint Clothing fun to wear Exchange, one of several thrift stores in the city. them.” Although many teenagers frequent thrift stores because of the unique clothing styles, the low prices can also be a major factor. Senior Nick Foster has been shopping at thrift stores since he was a child. His family’s economical situation originally steered him in that direction, but now he enjoys the styles, as well. “ARC has the vintage apparel that I’m looking for at an affordable cost,” said Foster. “And not only do they have clothes, but they have household appliances dirt cheap.” Coral Cronin, a manager at the downtown Repeat Boutique, also emphasizes the variety and value of a consignment style shop. “Since it’s consignment, it gives people the opportunity to make a little bit of money on their old clothes, and also purchase next to new clothes for a pretty heavy reduction,” said Cronin. “We carry everything from blue jeans to Jump to Thrift, page b2
Halloween scare second to fun by Kyle Herman
Asst. News Editor
Halloween. The day of ghouls and goblins, witches and haunted houses. People are supposed to be filled with suspense of what fearsome thing might happen next. The day that teenagers scare little kids with their terrifying pranks. At least that is what Halloween used to be. The main thought now is “What is so scary about a holiday that revolves around sugar?” Are the costumes that children wear too realistic? Are the haunted houses really haunted? No, Halloween just isn’t scary anymore. A survey that went out to students has this information as proof. Females voted that being seen by your friends while you are trick-or-treating with your younger sibling is scarier than witches. Males revealed that
It’s all about the free candy, and how you go about getting it. -Janet Dickey, junior
nothing is scary about Halloween . World geography teacher Jacque Kinnick says that real things are scarier than Halloween. “I am scared of drunk drivers and heights; kids dressing up is not scary at all,” said Kinnick. As a consolation, Kinnick said, “The movie Halloween is scary.” According to junior Janet Dickey, Halloween is not a holiday for scares, but a holiday for fun. Trick-or-treating has become a thing of the past. Yet many students still have the craving for free candy. Dickey has come
up with a new approach to getting that candy. “It’s all about the free candy, and how you go about getting it,” said Dickey. Although Dickey says that Halloween is not scary in general, it is still fun to scare people. “I scare kids all the time,” said Dickey. “ But on Halloween, scaring children and then taking their candy is definitely the way to go, as long as you don’t get caught.” Along with Kinnick, Dickey says the scariest things are things that happen in real life. “Hurricanes and tornadoes scare me a whole lot more then Frankenstein,” said Dickey. Dickey and Kinnick are both in agreement when they say Halloween is no scarier than the rest of the year. So whether it’s Oct. 31 or not, fear, or lack thereof, will be a sensation in many people’s lives.
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friday, oct. 10
Features Editor: Kelly Reingardt
Cooper Home offers real life experiences Students with moderate needs practice basic living skills by Heather Stevens
Reporter
DEBRA WILLIAMS
HANGING OUT: Amanda Morgan (above) makes herself some food at the Cooper Home. Cheryal Summers and Kendra Kettler (right) play pool. The Cooper Home helps moderate needs students learn to take care of themselves. and live on their own.
DEBRA WILLIAMS
Meat
For senior Amanda Morgan, going to the Cooper Home for the first time meant dealing with a strange mixture of emotions. On one hand, she was excited at the prospect of meeting new people and making her own decisions. But on the other, she was scared of leaving the comforts and security of home and her parents and living on her own. But any fears she may have had went away after the first few days at the Cooper Home, a place for moderate needs students to practice living on their own, as she joined three others in learning to cook meals, do laundry, make grocery lists and shop for all items. “Once I went to Cooper Home, I learned I had to depend more on myself and the choices I made, rather than letting others, like my parents, make those choices,” Morgan said. “I’m having a lot of fun doing the activities and cooking and cleaning.” Students stay at the Cooper Home Monday
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Reingardt. “You get five sandwiches for five dollars.” Eating meat is a good way to add essential nutrients to our diet. According to the National Meat Association, meat is a good part of a healthy diet. “ Beef is a good source of nine essential nutrients: protein, zinc, vitamin B-12, selenium,
phosphorus, niacin, vitamin B6, iron and riboflavin,” said Kiran Kernellu, the NMA’s communications manager. “Eating meat is a tasty easy to give the body what it needs to grow and function.” Is there such a thing as eating too much meat? According to the Medical Research Council, 80 percent of
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breast,prostate, and bowel cancers are associated with meat consumption in the diet. Although meat may cause health risks many of today’s athletes don’t seem to be too worried about it. “I am not worried about the health risks,” Underwood said. “I am always doing something athletic so being in shape I think puts things in my favor.” So whether you believe in eating meat or not the facts are simple. Meat is a great way to build strength and add protein to your diet, but too much meat, though, may be fatal.
Falgout
DEBRA WILLIAMS
A BEAUTIFUL VIEW: A view of the Cooper Home on East Stuart Street. The Cooper Home offers a place for young people with moderate needs to learn living skills.
through Thursday night and go home on the weekends and holidays. The program lasts one full semester and participating students earn 15 credits toward graduation. Along with the everyday skills, students learn how to care for animals and manage a budget. Cooper Home also offers a day training program for junior high school students to begin learning many of these same skills. “We are fulfilling the vision of Martha Cooper, who donated her home to the district in the early 60s,” said Paula Shepard, Cooper Home teacher. “Her purpose for this was to allow students in special education an opportunity to learn life skills in a residential setting.” Added Karent Bennet, special education coordinator at Rocky, “It’s a great experience for individuals to gain indepen-
Thrift
dence.” Along with the practical living and learning experiences, the Cooper Home offers students a unique social experience. While living at Cooper Home, students have the opportunity to meet new people from other high schools. For many students who live at Cooper Home, they also gain experience living with a roommate and sharing space. Kendra Kettler, a junior, said that Cooper Home is great for “making new friends and having a roommate.” Students living at Cooper Home also re c e i v e i n s t r u c t i o n s from guest speakers on various topics such as apartment basics and public transportation. All of this leads to greater self-esteem and personal confidence for those in the program. “I feel good and I’m happy here,” Kettler said.
FROM P AGE B1
household items.” Fort Collins offers many different thrift store options, depending on the items and styles desired. There are several eclectic shops located in Old Town, many of which have been in operation for years. One of those highly unique shops is Wear it Again, Sam, Located on North College next old town square. This shop features not only original vintage apparel, but a large selection of costume rentals, as well as hand made hats.
The store owner, Mary Rosselle, emphasizes the opportunity for dance apparel that no one else will be wearing. This applies to men as well as women, as Wear it Again, Sam offers velvet suits. Although thrift store shopping is just a money saver for some, Randall Stone has turned it into an offbeat hobby. “I collect shirts and pants,” said Stone. “I actually wear some girls pants.” Regardless of their reasons, many students are turning to thrift stores to create a style all their own.
FROM PAGE B1
A-kids; this is rarely achieved. Instead, the B-kids are generally struck with the ball and are either seriously injured with a concussion or a bruised spleen, or they are simply bruised and eliminated from the game. When the game is over, the A-kids are predictably victorious and are awarded later on in life with playing sports for a big-name college and eventually marrying one
of the swooning B-kid females. The remaining defeated Bkids are left to depend on physical and mental therapy for the rest of their lives, which they could easily afford due to making millions off of their latest novel and/or software program. Despite the physical and emotional dangers of this game, teachers still allow it to take place. They only do this
to let natural selection happen prematurely for the children. If American children were not encouraged to seize each day as though it were a bloody battle to prove who is more powerful than the other, then the nation would not be as divided as it is today. Dodge ball ruins egos, lives, and dreams. I should know. I was a B-kid. Senior Vanessa Falgout is the News Editor for the Highlighter.
b3
friday, oct. 10
Features Editor: Kelly Reingardt
page
Takahashi paints picture of hope Q & A by Kyle Herman
Asst. News Editor
The term “struggling artist” usually refers to an artist who cannot make a living from their paintings. For art teacher Rick Takahashi, it means not being able to create art as well as he used to. “It feels as if I have been in water for a really long time, and my skin is all spongy. I can’t pick up heavy things anymore, and I can’t feel the pencil as I draw,” said Takahashi as he tried to describe the things that he has been feeling for months as a result of his herniated disc near the top of his spinal cord. Takahashi says that in addition to the feelings that he described, he is also having trouble doing things that take no work at all. “It hurts to sit, and sometimes to walk,” said Takahashi. He has been going through these symptoms since May of last year, and had surgery on Oct. 3 to replace the disc. He was hoping to finish the surgery and recovery before school started this year, but was put on hold when the doctors discovered a heart condition that prevented the surgery from happening. “I was very disappointed and scared because I was hoping that there wasn’t any problem with my heart, because heart problems are hereditary in my family,” said Takahashi. His wife, school counselor Susan Takahashi, says that although it was a tough time, it may have been beneficial for Rick’s health to discover these heart problems. “It was a burden to have to wait [for the surgery] but it’s been a blessing because he is taking care of his health much better than he was before,” said Susan.
KYLE HERMAN
THE ARTIST: Art teacher Rick Takahashi interacts with one of his students several days before his surgery. Takahashi’s surgery was on Oct. 3 and is recovering well.
Teacher on the mend by Kyle Herman
Asst. News Editor
Art teacher Rick Takahashi’s surgery, that took place on Oct. 3, is done. Takahashi says that he still has the same symptoms, but he is glad it’s all over with. Side effects of the surgery include inability to walk, and Even with all the trouble that Rick has had with his heart and neck, he is still trying to keep an open attitude about his life, but has had to work hard to keep this happy demeanor. “I try to be positive about whatever goes on in my life, but I find it difficult to remain positive sometimes,” said Rick, explaining the way his life has changed since he found out he had to have this surgery. Rick says that although he has been through this rough patch, many people have been very
also he cannot lie down, so it is hard for him to fall asleep. He expects a slow recovery, but says he is going to be all right. “People call and check up on me, it’s really cool,” said Takahashi. “It goes to show you what a great school we have at Rocky.” supportive. Students and teachers alike have many suggestions as to how Rick should be treated after his surgery. “[Rick] is a guy who works very hard and needs to take it easy and let his wife wait on him. I think he should set up a system where each of the yearbook members should bring a meal to their house every night,” joked school counselor Pam Kilness. Rick has enjoyed the support from the various teachers and
students, but says that his wife has been the most supportive of all. “Mrs. Takahashi has been my strength; she does a lot of the things that I can’t do,” said Rick. In response Susan has this to say: “He is not as limited as he thinks he is, it is just a tough time to have any type of health problems, and realizing your limits. Especially for an artist, the thought that his whole passion and love could be taken away from him is really scary.” In addition to art, Rick also has another big hobby of tying flies for fishing. With the lack of feeling as one of his symptoms, it is getting harder and harder for Rick to tie flies. “I used to be able to just tie the fly because I could feel it. But now I have to watch the fly and use my sight, and it is much harder than it used to be,” said Rick. Rick is scheduled to get his operation on Oct. 3, and does not know when he will be coming back to school. The recovery time is anywhere between two weeks to several months. He is planning on coming back to finish this year, but has decided to retire at the end of the year. “I’ve always had a vision for this art department, and if we get the right people we will have kids that want to be a part of this department. I feel like we have a good new group of teachers that can handle the art department very well, and it feels like its the right thing to leave now,” said Rick. Rick has been a teacher here for 27 years. Before he was a teacher he opened a house and ran an art program for mentally retarded children. He has devoted his life to students, and is confident that he has had a good influence on all of them.
Penoyer on her way to politics by Marlys Merrill
Reporter
The time always comes in a life when a person has to decide what she would like to spend the rest of their lives doing. For some, this decision wouldn’t be so mind-boggling as opposed to others, and for most, the decision is chaotic. But for senior C h e l s e a Penoyer, it’s PENOYER a l r e a d y planned out. For the 17-year-old senior, her past high school years have been busy with politics. “I’m headstrong about what I believe in,” said Penoyer. “If I don’t agree, I debate my point.” Headstrong is putting it plainly when talking about Penoyer. Becoming involved in the Yellow Ribbon Program, FBLA/DECA, and many other extra-curriculars, her main priority focuses on her interest in politics. Most of her friends become a part of it whether they are
I’m headstrong about what I believe in. If I don’t agree, I debate my point. -Chelsea Penoyer, senior
intersted or not. “I like to debate so I have different viewpoints on different topics,” said Penoyer. “Someday I want to be senator.” In becoming U.S. Senator Ben Nighthorse Campbell’s intern, Penoyer is already one step ahead. “I think it’s exciting because I’m getting in touch with a person of great authority,” said Penoyer. “Right now I’m working on his (Senator Campbell’s) re-election campaign.” Penoyer has no disagreements she can think of when talking about the decisions made by the senator. “I back him quite a bit,” said Penoyer. “He’s done a lot, along with Musgrave and the rest of them, to make Colorado a better place.” Penoyer has done all she can to be educated in the subject. She realizes how extreme and
serious being a politician is. “I don’t think I should be in an office like that until I am much older,” said Penoyer. “It takes time and you gain knowledge with time.” Penoyer is wasting no time in getting her voice heard,though. After enrolling in a scholarship program to become Miss Teen Colorado, Penoyer has her focus on speaking aloud to the community. Penoyer’s topic in the pageant is teen suicide. She plans on talking about how truly upsetting it is to know that Colorado has one of th e highest suicide rates Penoyer discusses what she would like to see in her future. “I’d get out and meet as many people as I can face to face,” said Penoyer. “I would tell them what I want. I’d want to make it a better place for the people and get suicide rates down.” Her knowledge in politics is a higher standard than most.
How she got there is how most teenagers would build such a foundation for their strong beliefs. “I’m really passionate about it,” said Penoyer. “My parents took time to discuss it with us so my brother and I know what’s going on in the world.” It’s her strong head for politics and the influence her parents gave her that has gotten her in depth with politics. “I really like to know what’s going on around me,” said Penoyer. “In less than six months I’ll be voting and I don’t want to be an uneducated voter. I believe that every vote does count.
Jennifer Tschetter
Q: How do you want to represent the sophomore class? A:I want to make sure everyone gets represented. Everyone should know whats happening in the school. Q: How do you think you can help unify the sophomores coming in from different schools? A: People are bonding on their own already, but I think when we have more activities at lunch and sports, everyone will kind of form new groups, and blend differently. Q: Is this something you have always wanted to do? A: I really have enjoyed being in student council. It’s so much fun. Q: What does it mean to be the sophomore class president, and what are the responsibilities that come with it? A: It basically means that I have to keep all the officers on track, and get the sophomore projects done on time. It’s hard because of all the older officers. It will be easier next year, because I’ll know what’s going on, and have a better idea of what to do. Q: What are you looking forward to in this office? A: I want to be a politician, so this is a great learning experience. I want the sophomore class to be unified, everyone connected and informed on all the activities.
High School Student Special
Great Philly or Hamburger, Fries and Small Drink
$4
b4 healthyliving
page
Page Editor: Kelly Reingardt
Friday, October 10
Students make choice to go meat free by Cassie Bohlmann
Reporter
When senior Brenna Loury decided to become a vegetarian her sophomore year, her parents didn’t understand the rationale behind it. “When I was on vacation in Oregon, I went into a seashell store and they had alligator feet on key chains,” said Loury. “I just thought that was wrong, because alligators are precious animals.” Loury calls her vegetarianism an ethical issue and has stuck to her beliefs despite the lack of familial support. Although she has to prepare her own meals, she has adjusted to being responsible for her own diet over the past year. Many other students have made the leap to vegetarianism in recent years, raising questions of the nutritional merit of a vegetarian diet. Students like Loury think that their beliefs regarding their lifestyle choices are more important than any difficulties they may face. Vegetarianism, an increasingly popular lifestyle choice that requires intense motivation, is a commitment that each person makes for a different reason. According to The Vegetarian Resource Group, five percent of U.S. teens 13 to 17 years old don’t eat meat. Despite some opposition, it has been well proven that teens can meet their nutritional needs on a vegetarian diet as long as they choose a variety of healthy foods. “My mom doesn’t always think it’s very healthy, but she’s never told me not to do it,” said
At first it was hard to give up chicken and seafood, but I’ve just stuck with it and now I think meat is disgusting -Anna Ivanova, senior
sophomore Rachel Kane. Although health risks are sometimes involved, a carefully researched vegetarian diet can reduce risk of cancer and heart disease and lower cholesterol. Problems develop mainly when vegetarians don’t consume enough amino acids, which are the building blocks of protein. Kane, who gave up meat “cold turkey” after her eighth grade year, sometimes craves meat but feels guilty eating it because of the animal rights issues involved. Although vegetarians are commonly stereotyped as being animal activists, there are students, such as senior John Aguero, who say no to meat for health purposes. “Recently, our country has become more health aware. Teenagers are looking for ways to stay in shape,” said Aguero. “Mainly, I felt that I would be living a healthier lifestyle if I stopped eating meat.” Although Aguero, who has been a vegetarian for six years, made the commitment for a different reason than Loury and Kane, he agrees that parental support is helpful, if not necessary. “My mom and I used to have discussions about becoming
vegetarians," s a i d Aguero. “ W e b o t h had it on o u r minds, I was just the first one to carry the idea out. Now that my whole family is vegetarian, it’s a lot easier for me.” Senior Anna Ivanova, who has excluded meat from her diet for a year, followed her mother’s and sister’s examples and now couldn’t imagine living any other way. “When my sister and my mom both became vegetarians, I kind of felt left out,” said Ivanova. “At first it was hard to give up chicken and seafood, but I’ve just stuck with it and now I think meat is disgusting.” “It’s kind of cool, because I can see that it’s growing,” said Ivanova. “I’ve been meeting a lot more teenagers who are vegetarians.”
DEBRA WILLIAMS
ALL THE GREENS: The salad bar offers students a vegetarian option.
GRAPHIC BY VANESSA F ALGOUT
FoodFest offers wide variety by Kelly Reingardt
Features Editor
When it comes to the school lunches, FoodFest has all the points covered. FoodFest offers a wide range of items for all students. Not only do they offer items for students who are vegetarians, they also offer a wide range of meat products. “We have a 25-hole salad bar for vegetarians, and we have beef or chicken fajitas for meat lovers,” said FoodFest manager Susie Miller. These are not all of the options that Food Fest offers, though. They also have many other items that will accommodate any lifestyle. “We offer a diverse menu because, just as people out in the world, students have different tastes, beliefs,” said Miller. “ It is good to have a choice.” For vegetarians the FoodFest offers the salad bar, soup, bean burritos, cheese pizza, pretzels, bagels, amoung many other options. FoodFest offers many kinds of foods to please all eaters–vegitarian or not.
Meat on top of menu for football players by Kelly Reingardt
M E A T
Features Editor
GRAPHIC BY VANESSA FALGOUT
Imagine this: You are sitting at a nice restaurant. The guy next to youa rather l a r g e young m a n orders a steak the approximate size of your h e a d . Because this frightens you into thinking that you will be next on his menu, you begin to wonder why he can eat that much meat. Why is it that
some people can eat meat nonstop, and others don’t eat meat at all? While these questions may never have answers, one thing is for sure: America loves meat. We even have a diet formed around eating meat with protein. This is called the Atkins Diet. The British Federation of Bakers announced that bread sales have declined two percent since Robert Atkins, founder of the Atkins diet, released his book. So how is the meat industry doing? News reports have said that the Atkins diet has helped raise prices on cattle form 65 cents a pound to 82 cents per pound. Many eat meat just because they enjoy it so much. “ It’s tastier than anything on earth,” said senior football lineman Brad Reingardt.
V E G E T A R I A N
Reingardt, who weighs 250 pounds, may be an exception; yet he is not the only one who chooses this lifestyle. Many athletes choose to incorporate meat into their diets because it helps them keep up their weight and It’s tastier than strength. anything on “Meat is a major earth. source of protein, and protein helps me -Brad Reingardt, senior gain weight,” said football lineman Phil Underwood, a former Rocky football player, and an Adams State football player. “Being a football player I have to rely on this type of diet to maintain my body shape.” What is commonly know as a “grub fest,”some of the football players go to Arbys and eat approximately five sandwiches each. “We go on game days,” said Jump to Meat, page b2
entertainment
c
section
Entertainment Editor: Jake Rubin
Jake Rubin
PIRATES BEWARE!
Friday, October 10
Recording industry fights music piracy by Sarah Rupert
Art Editor
When most people think of pirates, what usually comes to mind are ships, eye patches, peg legs, and swashbuckling. What usually does not come to mind is some teenager sitting at his computer downloading mp3s. In recent months, downloading music off the internet has become a large controversy throughout the world. The internet has given people the ability to share files. According to the IFPI website, one in three people in the world is a pirate. A c c o rd i n g t o t h e i r website, The Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) is playing a huge part in putting a stop to illegal songs being avaliable to download off the internet for
Jew Stew
Are those things real? When people compare the female celebrities and models that grace the covers of tabloid magazines to Barbie dolls, I’m beginning to realize just how true this analogy is. They’re both women of unrealistic proportions, always appear happy and smiling, and are both made of plastic. It’s this plastic that is now annexing women’s bodies through chemical injections and cosmetic procedures that are becoming oh so popular. Probably one of the fastest growing fashion trends these days is cosmetic plastic surgery. It’s also one of the stupider fads to ever occur (right up there with Giga pets, eight tracks, and the Macarena). I’m not quite sure how or when this growing epidemic became so popular, but I do know that in the past few years, people have become extremely accepting and embracing of plastic surgery. So blame Britney Spears for the increased number of young girls getting boob jobs. And blame Michael Jackson for the rising amount of middle-age males getting rhinoplasty (almost 150,000, up eight percent more from the year before). After all, blaming others has become America’s new pastime. I don’t think that there is a better example of how desensitized we’ve become to plastic surgery than by the popularity of a little show called Extreme Makeover. And I thought TV had stooped to new lows with American Juniors. This show is the epitome of horrible reality television. If you’re unfamiliar with the show, basically what they do is give contestants a makeover—not your average let’s-take-trailer-trash-and-putthem-in-good-clothes-with-nicehair-and-makeup-for-one-day shows, but rather let’s-taketrailer-trash-and-pay-for-theirplastic-surgery-that-so-manypeople-want-in-six-to-eightweeks shows. They pretty much show the contestant before he or she goes to the “Extreme Team” (plastic surgeons, dentists, stylists, etc.), and then after when the contestant presents his or her image to family and friends. One TV reporter called this transformation a “Cinderella-like experience”. This comparison honestly sickens me. This show has absolutely no “Cinderellalike” qualities to it. Those singing little mice did not give Cinderella a boob job, face-lift, and tummy tuck, all they did was make her a dress. Jump to Rubin, page c2
surveysays of Rocky 63% students download mp3s 49% 88%
of these downloaders use KaZaA or Morpheus of students do not feel they are at risk for being caught downloaded download mp3s because CDs are overpriced
55%
do not feel
piracy is 67% music morally wrong 408 students surveyed
Jump to Piracy, page c2
GRAPHIC BY J AKE RUBIN
Students disregard the risks of file sharing by Marlys Merrill and Jake Rubin
Staff
Music lovers are in trouble. While some downloaders across the country become weary of downloading illegal music, other students remain ignorant to exactly how downloaders are caught. “Who’s going to come to my house and look at my computer?” said junior Mike Barreras. “I don’t really care.” Trackers indeed do not go from house to house looking for illegal music; they use secretive search tools that target file sharers by
searching for specific artists. Still, many students continue to download. “I don’t think (being caught) will happen,” states junior Gary Geisler. “I don’t give out my personal information, so they won’t ever know that it was me.” The RIAA needs very little personal information to track a file-swapper down. They track the IP address of a user, which is like a computer’s unique fingerprint. They then contact that person’s internet service provider to get personal informa-
tion from them. Nonetheless, Rocky students continue to download. “I don’t think that it’s ever going to stop,” said Geisler. Barreras too said he still downloads. The RIAA’s attempt to scare downloaders out of sharing is only having a minor impact on many students. “They’re not making a very good attempt,” said junior Jona Kamberi. “No one I know has gotten caught. They have only mentioned two people in the newspaper.”
As a student survey shows, many students don’t think downloading is morally wrong. Though many students prefer the simplicity of downloading, others still prefer supporting the artists by buying the CDs. “I still buy CDs,” said Barreras. “I do feel bad because they put money and work into it and I just get it for free.” Sharing illegal music or not, many students can agree that all this controversy may be because of humanity’s love for music. “Music was made for people anyway,” said Geisler.
Fall musical heads east to Oklahoma Ad Manager themusical by Melissa Tree
JAKE RUBIN
WHERE THE DEER AND THE ANTELOPE PLAY: Katie Tibbetts, Dayna Knutson, and Rebecca Clements (above, left to right) work on building the set. Matthew Belcher, Allison Adkins and Sydnie Overholser (left, left to right) practice their dances
SARAH RUPERT
Cowboy boots, a love twist between a ranch hand and a farmer’s daughter, sparky music, and good old country hollering. This is the musical known as Oklahoma. The popular Rodgers and Hammerstein’s musical is being put on by Rocky performing arts. Set in the early 1900s, this musical about farmers vs. cowboys has an array of action, love, and suspense, not to mention award-winning music and spectacular dancing. “Rocky has a standing tradition of putting on great shows, and the music and choir directing is brilliant,” said Larissa Cran. Cran, who is currently in her first year of teaching is the drama teacher for the musical and enjoys working with the director, Barbra Luek. With this being her last year before retirement, Luek has taken on the role of director for the first
Cost: $7, $5 with activity pass When: Oct. 23 at 7:30 p.m. Oct. 25 at 1 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. Where: Auditorium time at Rocky. “With 55 kids in the show, she sure has her hands full,” said junior Eli Beck Gifford, who plays a cowboy named Tom. “She is the back bone of this production.” However, there is a minor setback. With the director, the leads, and other main parts gone for the choir trip to Japan, it makes practicing a difficult task to be completed. “The Echoes people put a hitch in the get-along, but that is OKlahoma,” said junior Brian Quinn. “The show must go on.”
c2: entertainment friday oct 10 Thirteen gives dramatic insight into life of teenage girls page
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by Jake Rubin
Entertainment Editor
moviereview
There is no argument that junior high is an awkward age for many teens. Everything is changing both physically and emotionally, which can be confusing, exciting, and scary all at once. Things that never used to matter in elementary school, such as looks and popularity, have suddenly become all kids care about. Such is the case for thirteenyear-old Tracy (Evan Rachel Wood) who has just begun her first year of junior high school. Thirteen chronicles Tracy’s downward spiral into self-destruction during the strange transition from childhood to adulthood. While walking through the masses of students on the first day of school, Tracy, looking wideeyed and innocent, sees her older brother and his friends ogling the school hottie, Evie Zamora (Nikki Reed). Tracy immediately feels out-ofplace and childish and accordingly runs home begging her divorced-hippie-mom Melanie (Holly Hunter) for new clothes while tossing away anything that displays her youth, which includes everything from her rainbow socks to her stuffed animals.
Desperate to feel accepted, Tracy will use any means to become friends with Evie. Tracy eventually takes a bus to Melrose Avenue where she finds Evie freely shoplifting whatever she wants. As if she is auditioning to be Evie’s friend, Tracy steals a businesswoman’s wallet full of cash. Immediately, Evie and Tracy click and the motherless Evie more-or-less moves in with Tracy’s family. Tracy quickly takes on a new persona; one so virtually identical to Evie’s that the two girls personalities meld into one. Tracy and Evie are soon connected at their overly-exposed hips. Evie introduces Tracy to a world of drugs, sex, piercing, stealing, lies, manipulation, and anorexia. Although all these things consuming Tracy’s life may seem like a stereotype of teenage girls, which in someways it is, it’s the only major flaw of the film (there’s the divorced mom, the absent and busy father, the girl with the crack-whore mother, the other girl that resorts to cutting). This minor flaw is more than made up for with the brilliant cinematography, direction, and acting. The film is shot all with
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handheld camera, which gives the film a very real, documentarylike feel. The color of the film parallels Tracy’s life: beginning vibrant and colorful, it slowly loses hue and color until, in the final scenes, there is a blue, dull picture. Throughout the movie, director Catherine Hardwicke, who was once a production designer, strategically places an advertisement that foreshadows Tracy’s tragic demise with an advertisement that changes throughout the film. What is so disturbing about Thirteen, besides the reminder that all this is happening to girls that are in only seventh grade, is the element of realism in the story and how this realism is executed onscreen. Probably what makes it so convincing is the fact that the story is based on the real-life experiences of cowriter and actress Reed. Reed and Hardwicke wrote the script in less than two weeks and quickly went into production. This film should be seen by every teenage girl and her mom as it would likely help mothers understand the peer pressure teens face at school, and young girls might have a better understanding of how difficult raising a teen can be. A-
King still the king Rubin of scary stories
Entertainment Editor: Jake Rubin
PHOTO COURTSEY OF F OX S EARCHLIGHT P ICTURES
LUCKY NUMBER ‘THIRTEEN’: Evie (left) played by Nikki Reed and Tracy (right) played by Evan Rachel Wood stroll down Venice Beach in LA. When the low-budget film was shot, both co-writer Reed and Wood were 14 and 15, respectively; very close in age to the character’s they are portraying. Local theaters are unsure if they will be screening this film.
FROM P AGE C1
by Kyle Herman
Asst. News Editor
When it comes to scary books, Stephen King has written a few, but one of his latest, Everything’s Eventual: 14 Dark Tales, has twisted, scary stories that are sure to give you nightmares. The collection of short stories in Everything’s Eventual are all as good as any of King’s other stories but the thing that separates this book from his others is many of the stories are short and to the point, while keeping the reader wrapped in a blanket of suspense. The book includes 14 stories, some of which are: “Lunch at the Gotham Cafe,” “Everything’s Eventual,” “Autopsy Room Four,” and “The Road Virus Heads North.” The scariest of these tales is “The Road Virus Heads North.” In this story, an author buys a painting he thinks will give him a good idea for a story. The painting is a picture of a kid driving on a road in the countryside. The road is the same road where he bought the painting. As the man drives, the painting changes to show what the man sees on the road. The painting begins to predict the future of the man, such as how he is going to die and when. The man tries to light the painting on fire, and throws it into a river, but the painting manages to get itself back into the man’s car. He notices the painting is driving on a different road. The road it has chosen is one that
bookreview heads right to his aunt’s house. He tries to call her and warn her, but it is already too late. He sees as the child in the paintEverything’s ing starts to Eventual: 14 Dark Tales drive to$7.99 Pocket Books wards his 608 pages house, and realizes that he does not have much time. The story gets more suspenseful before a very intelligent and surprising ending. One of the more bizarre stories in Everything’s Eventual is “Autopsy Room Four.” It is about a man who is getting an autopsy. The problem is he is not dead. Throughout the story he tries to let the nurse know that he is still alive, but he can’t move because he is paralyzed. The story wraps up in a very original way that may seem humorous to some. The ending may leave you questioning the sanity of King, and wondering how someone can come up with something so strange. In Everything’s Eventual, there are many great suspenseful stories. The worlds that King writes about in this book are extremely imaginative and gripping. Everything’s Eventual is a great read for Halloween and is sure to give even the most fearless person a chill. A
I think it is very normal to have insecurities. I also think it’s expected to be insecure when all mass-media shows us is how we can improve ourselves, as if it’s wrong to ever be satisfied. What I don’t think is normal, although it is becoming more of a norm, is for people, especially women, to want these insecurities “fixed” with the simplicity of a doctor and a scalpel.
One thing that also confuses me is how activists can protest and scream about how cloning humans or animals is going against God and nature. Well isn’t going to the mall once a month to get rat-poison injected into your forehead going against nature just as much, if not more? People get old. People will get wrinkles. Get over it. If we were meant to stay young forever, Ponce
de Leon would have found the Fountain of Youth. As my Shirley (Shirley Manson, that is, the lead singer of Garbage) so brilliantly puts it, “But if it’s all so very ‘it’s not what you look like, it’s who you are inside’ then why the [hell] is everyone so bloody concerned with the surface of things?” Jake Rubin is a senior and Entertainment Editor for the Hightligher.
Piracy
FROM P AGE C1
free. Many record companies feel that downloading music infringes on copyright laws and money that is supposed to go to artists and record companies. To put a stop to this they are working with law enforcement agencies to give subpoenas to site operators who have illegal music on their websites and recently to users of the popular file sharing program, KaZaA. On Sept. 8th, the RIAA filed 261 lawsuits against file sharers, the begininng of thousands more. Cary Sherman the President of the RIAA commented in Newsweek on the lawsuits, “We’re doing it to get our message out.” Many are promoting this message, even at Rocky. “When someone downloads a song without paying the artist, that is simply stealing intellectual property,” said Rob Richmond, an English teacher. “I believe a number of people who download understand the ramifications.” Richmond is associated with the recording industry so music piracy hits close to home. His brothers run a company called Essex Music which owns copyrights to songs and have worked with bands such as Pink Floyd, The Who, and Ozzy Osbourne. So whenever a song is
played in a movie, T.V. commercial, or on the radio they collect royalties from the song. When songs are pirated they don’t see any of this money. Under copyright laws, file swappers can be charged for up to $150,000 per song according to CNET news. Although it is legal to copy a CD for an additional copy, it is not legal to burn CDs from illegal mp3s. “I have no problem with people who buy a CD and then copy it because you purchased the CD and now it’s your property, so
www.kokuajujitsukai
you can do whatever you want with it,” said Richmond. “ But I do have a problem with somebody not paying a person for his or her art.” It seems the only way for record companies to keep up so to lower their prices on CDs. Universal Music has started this by lowering prices by 31 percent. Richmond has another suggestion to get free music. “If its music you enjoy and you can’t afford it, you can always listen to the radio–its free,”he said.
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friday, oct. 10
Entertainment Editor: Jake Rubin
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The good, bad and the ugly of fall TV season by Kyle Herman
Asst. News Editor
In the past people have always looked forward to the new fall TV schedule, but this year it seems that homework may be a more amusing anecdote. The new fall season started with many new shows. CBS’s Two and a Half Men, NBC’s Happy Family and Whoopi, and UPN’s Jake 2.0 and The Mullets were among some of the new shows. Every year TV stations try to find the next Seinfeld. Unfortunately, all the channels failed miserably. Among the worst is The Mullets. A show created by the producers of The Simpsons, The Mullets w a s s u p posed to be a grand success; it’s not. The plot consists of two brothers who have mullets and like women. Terrible acting mixed with terrible writing has become, for lack of a better word, terrible. Another show that is just plain lousy is Jake 2.0. Along with The Mullets, Jake 2.0 aired on UPN, which has seemed to be the “fallback” channel of the new season. It seems that every show the major broadcasting channels rejected, UPN picked up. Jake 2.0 is about a guy who
tvpreview
NBC PHOTO: B YRON J. COHEN
WE ARE FAMILY: NBC’s new sitcom Happy Family is “the one new success of the fall season.” It airs Tuesdays at 6:30 p.m.
is a computer. A rip off of The Million-Dollar-Man, and other “superhero” based shows, Jake 2.0 is sure to fail this season. Jake has many different powers, almost as if some insane scientist cloned Superman, Spider man, Batman, and any other superhero that just happens to have a power that Jake can use in his time of crisis.
Chili’s spices up American food by Kyle Herman
Asst. News Editor
College Avenue is known for it’s cornucopia of restaurants, ranging from fast food to elegant dining, but if it’s great American food you want, then Chili’s is the place to go. When arriving at Chili's, my immediate impression was pleasant. The waitress was friendly, gave us enough time to decide what we wanted, and took our orders full of fake smiles and “thank yous.” The portions were monstrous yet tasty as well. There were refills aplenty and always attempts to make our meals more enjoyable. Chili’s has always featured baby back ribs as its specialty, but has many more delicious items on the menu. One of the items on Chili’s menu is the mushroom jack fajita ($10.49). It comes with a half pound of chicken with jack cheese and smoky bacon. Another one of the “featured” selections on the menu is the country fried steak ($7.99). It comes with a huge portion and is served with mashed potatoes and corn. The country fried steak is one of the most popular
could be found humorous. Whoopi was advertised more than Wal-Mart and failed at bringing that promised hilarious rebirth of Whoopi Goldberg. The only jokes that seem to work in this show are racist. Whoopi makes fun of black people and the Iranian handyman, Nasim makes fun of the Middle East.
topten
position) 8. Jared (If he can loose 150 pounds eating Subway sandwiches, he can do anything) 7. Hugh Hefner (Playboy Bunnies at the Vatican) 6. Yoda (He’s got the force. Plus the hat adds height)
This month’s topic: Alternative replacements for the ailing Pope. 10. Jack Nicholson (Heeeeere’s Popey) 9. Don Unger (He can’t be forced to resign from this
LOPEZ
5. Tom Creegan (No more red cloaks; tie-dye for the clergy) 4. Kobe Bryant (Priest or pedophile?) 3. 50 Cent (He’s got the magic stick) 2. J. Lo (There goes the celibacy laws) 1. Jim Gjerde (Need we say more?) Compiled by Jake Rubin and Steve Turney
comicsection foodreview items on the Chili's menu because of it’s rich, delicious taste. My favorite, however,was the steak quesadilla fajita($7.95). It comes with a generous portion of steak and a lot of white rice. Although it is a little dry, it comes with a very good dipping sauce. The service is exceptional, with the food coming in a timely manner and the server always smiling. The waiters and waitresses do not hesitate to refill drinks, and always ask if there is anything else you need. The dining rooms are always filled, but when eating, there is always enough space as not to feel crowded. With the huge portions, secluded tables, and friendly staff, Chili’s is one of the best and most popular restaurants in Fort Collins. B-
2 slices of pizza and a soda for $2 1128 W. Elizabeth
Two and a Half Men and Whoopi seem to be bearable, even entertaining at times, but still don't have a wish of comparison to ER or Friends. Two and a Half Men is about a man whose wife leaves him because she decides that she is a lesbian. Although this could be a comical story line, the poor acting (excluding Charlie Sheen) ruins any jokes that
The one new success of the fall season is Happy Family. Happy Family is a comedy about a couple whose children are finally old enough to move out. The only problem is that they won’t. Each member of the family has some sort of problem, which adds to the hilarity of the show. Tim, the youngest son, is brainless, Sara, the lone daughter, scares away all her dates and is in the middle of an emotional breakdown, and Todd, the oldest, is engaged and already cheating on his soon-to-be-wife. The mother, who is obsessivecompulsive, has lost all confidence in her children, especially Sara, and the father is trying to keep the family together. NBC’s Friends is another show that is worth watching, if not because of the continued success of the show, then because this is the last year Friends will be on. The plot is the same as any other year, and the jokes seem to be very repetitive, but still provide some entertainment. All in all, the TV world has failed as a provider of entertainment. The only shows worth watching are the reruns of Seinfeld and The Simpsons. In an attempt to sum up this year’s new shows, the saying “there is always next year” seems to fit in quite well.
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“At School”
by Randall Stone
“The Adventures of Afro-Man”
by Courtney Mohr
“Smooth Operator”
by Vanessa Falgout
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Page Editor: Jake Rubin
comingsoon movies Oct. 10 •Good Boy! •House of the Dead •Intolerable Cruelty •Kill Bill Vol. 1 Oct. 17 •Runaway Jury •The Texas Chainsaw Massacre •Veronica Guerin Oct. 24 •Beyond Borders •Radio •Scary Movie 3 Nov. 5 •The Matrix: Revolutions
music Oct. 14 •Clay Aiken - Measure of a Man •Jagged Edge - Hard Oct. 21 •Barenaked Ladies Everything to Everyone •Rush - Rush in Rio •Joe Strummer Streetcore Oct. 28 •R.E.M. - In Time: The Best of R.E.M. 1988•The Strokes - Room on Fire Nov. 4 •Sarah Mclachlan - Afterglow •Triumph the Insult Comic Dog - Come Poop with Me •P.O.D. - Payable On Death
video Oct. 14 •The Matrix: Reloaded Oct. 21 •28 Days Later •Charlie’s Angels: Full Throttle •Indiana Jones Trilogy Oct. 28 •The Hulk •Whale Rider Nov. 4 •Friends: The Complete Fifth Season •Finding Nemo •Legally Blonde 2: Red, White & Blonde
concerts Oct. 10 •Ween: Fillmore Oct. 11 •Fleetwood Mac: Pepsi Center Oct. 14 •Marilyn Manson: Fillmore Oct. 30 •Mudvayne: Fillmore •Simon & Garfunkel: Pepsi Center Nov. 11 •Good Charlotte: Magness Arena Nov. 15 •Matchbox Twenty: Budweiser Event’s Center Nov. 28 •Barenaked Ladies: Buell
Friday, October 10
for
Student band redefines garage ska
THIS SOUNDS LIKE ROCK AND OR ROLL: The Skandoms practice in drummer Brandon Soltis’ basement. The Skandoms are made up of senior Jonah Byrne (far left) on lead vocals, junior David Ebel (center) on guitar, junior Chris Wright (right) on bass, senior Tom Athey on trumpet, senior Brandon Soltis on drums,and Nathan Whitcomb on the saxophone. The six members of the band are all Rocky students.
by Erik Pinkston
Editor-in-Chief
From the start you can tell that the Skandoms are not your average band. Four of the bands six members are ordained ministers. Recently the Skandoms finished their first CD, The Eims, Zwei. . .Schiss! EP which was recorded at the Blasting Room. After recording and playing at Springfest last year where they won second place at a battle of the bands concert, the Skandoms have been making a name for themselves around Rocky. “Basically it’s about getting shows and playing live,” junior guitar player David Ebel said. Ebel draws his influence from a variety of ska and punk musicians. “I’ve always been a music freak,” he said. “I flipped out over Op Ivy.” Since garage bands such as the White Stripes and the Hives recently became a piece of pop culture, the Skandoms want to make sure they’re not known as a normal garage band. “The fact that we’re a six piece band with a horn section is something that few garage bands don’t do,” junior saxophonist Nathan Whitcomb said. “In this town at least.” Formed in the eighth grade the Skandoms have played together for a long time. “In junior high there weren’t a lot of bands starting up, so I jumped on the opportunity,” Ebel said.
PHOTOS BY
SARAH RUPERT
BANG AND BLOW: Senior Brandon Soltis (above) bangs on his drums while Tom Athey (right) blows his trumpet. The band has progressed since they formed in junior high.
Other members feel that the band came together for different reasons. “We loved (senior Tom Athey) so much we started a band,” junior bassist Chris Wright joked. After starting with a bad guitar and very simple chord progressions Ebel thinks the
bandspotlight
band has made some serious progress in the song writing department. “We have some decent songs,” he said. “We started jamming pretty infrequently and I started writing a bunch of songs. We still jam pretty infrequently.” The band may not play as often as they like, but when they do they are still able offer their
listeners and fans a fresh revival of the dying genre of ska music. “I think we’re awesome,” he said. “I like the fact that we’re kind of unique, as far as high school bands go.” For Ebel nothing compares to the rush of playing live shows. “I really like making myself look like an idiot on stage,” he said.
Indie band ‘Rebels’ against the norm by Vanessa Falgout
News Editor
The Black Rebel Motorcycle Club is ready to try again and t a k e A m e r i c a o n –o n t h e i r own. The Black Rebel Motorcylce Club is a San Francisco-based indie-rock garage band trio with a British-rock sound. Although most of their success has been overseas in countries such as Japan and England, their sophomore release Take Them On, On Your Own is destined to develop a stronger fan-base in the U.S. In a time where indie-rock appreciation is on the rise, the The Black Rebel Motorcylce Club seem to stand out more than the average indie-group. Favored for their psychedelic
cdreview rhythms, aggressive guitars, and dark, evocative melodies, the The Black Rebel Motorcylce Club’s latest album is a giant step on an artistic level compared to that of their self-titled debut. Take Them On, On Your Own
is a collection of belligerent, yet complex and creativ remonstrations of disgust for the U.S. government. The opening track “Stop,” and the most standout track of the album, “U.S. Government,” cleverly capture the band’s confrontation with their anger of how the country is run through growling guitars and forebodingly poetic lyrics. Moreover, the most relieving aspect of this album, compared to its prerequisite, is the the lyrics do not struggle to be heard over the psychedelic rumbling of guitars, feedback, and powerful drumming. “Heart + Soul,” the final track on the album especially demonstrates the strength in
lyrics and vocals undetected on the debut. Frontman Peter Hayes belts out his hidden vocal skills, ending the rock masterpiece on a solid note. When listening to Take Them On, On Your Own, the moody tenor seems to resurrect the days of The Velvet Underground, MC5, and Jesus & Mary Chain, creating a dynamic sound that surpasses the top forty rock hits previously on the charts. Though the The Black Rebel Motorcylce Club lacks the popularity of comparable garage bands, such as The Strokes or The White Stripes Take Them On, On Your Own has the potential to strike interest in music afficionados alike. B+
rockysports
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Friday, October 10
Sports Editor: Steve Turney
Steve Turney
Tennis team faces coaching controvesy by Joey Murphey
Asst. Sports Editor
Fistfight in a Phonebooth
Are coaches becoming dictators?
MELISSA TREE
PAY ATTENTION: New tennis coach Cindy MacMaster teaches junior Logan Corcoran a quick lesson during tennis practice. The Lobos dealt with a coaching controversy this year after head coach Gary Wilson was forced to resign.
Let’s face it, the football team “did” kick butt against Dakota Ridge High School last Thursday in a non-league game in Golden, but unless you read the Denver Post, you might not know that Dakota Ridge was playing without nine starters who committed mutiny for the coaches’ handling of the team. In the Dakota Ridge mutiny, the players decided to skip practice and attend Hooters in protest of the coaches. One reason for the protest was because the coach threatened and intended to carry out a plan that would have made the defense run a 100-yard sprint for every point given up in the last game, which would have added up to 4,200 total yards. Though they skipped practice, each player was given the opportunity to return to the team. Only five players did. Obviously, the goal of any high school sports team is to play well and be victorious in the end, but not everyone just plays to win. Any athlete would have to be somewhat competitive or else they would not want to participate in athletics that can be very emotional. But I must admit, when a coach is so competitive that he is willing to punish players for simply not performing to perfection, that is crossing the line. Sometimes running may be a disciplinary action or even for conditioning reasons. But the point is, when a coach is potentially endangering the health of players and the integrity of the game, that coach does not belong in high school sports. Coaches and players both have crossed the line over the years. So how can we possibly prevent this in the future? First of all, we need to have open lines of communication between coaches and players in case there is a confrontation, neither side of the argument DIRTY WORK: will feel threatened. Members of the Most of all, the players and offensive line coaches need to think of the take a break best interest for all parties. We after scoring need to act like adults and find their second a way to compromise in order touchdown. The to do what is best for the team. Lobos beat It’s time for everyone to Thronton 42-7 at grow up and act like men. the Homecoming Steve Turney is a senior and game. the Sports Editor for the Highlighter.
Scandals bring sports ethics to debate
E T H I C A L
Drugs, steroids still major issues
The boys tennis team hopes to move on after losing their head coach earlier this season. Coach Gary Wilson was asked to resign this season for various reasons. Those associated with the tennis team have mixed feelings, thoughts, and emotions over not having Wilson as the coach anymore.
Wilson has been a part of the tennis program for six years with the girls team, four years with the boys, and has 34 years of coaching experience in tennis overall. “This was one of the toughest things that has ever happened to me in my life,” said Wilson. “I’ve put in an untold number of hours every year, and I don’t Jump to Tennis, page d4
by Steve Turney
Sports Editor
GRAPHIC BY JAKE RUBIN
Maurice Clarett, Rick Neuheisel, Jim Harrick, Dave Bliss, Chris Webber, The University of Minnesota,and St. Bonaventure University. What do all of these names or schools have in common? Answer: They have all been involved in some type of collegiate athletic scandal. Scandals in collegiate athletics have become somewhat of a trend lately. Whether you are talking about former Washington Huskies football coach Rick Neuheisel, who was fired after betting on NCAA basketball tournaments, or St. Bonaventure University, which had to forfeit six games of last year ’s men’s Jump to Layer, page d4
by Kyle Herman
Asst. News Editor
The United States has always been one of the sports capitals of the world. However, as role models, American athletes have not set a good example. One of the main reasons is drug and steroid abuse. On the subject of drug abuse, two questions have been raised as controversial. Are
drugs a good enough reason for suspension for professional athletes, and should drug abuse be a public problem or a private problem? “An athlete is a role model for people all over the world. If he or she is caught with drugs then it is a national problem,” said senior Sara Hunter, who is a four-year starter on the girls varsity basketball team.
Senior John Hess agrees with Hunter. “It’s ridiculous that a professional athlete does drugs, because they are people that everyone looks up to, they live in the public eye,” said Hess. Along with drug abuse, steroid use is also a big issue in many sports today. Ken Caminiti, former standout third basemen for the Texas Rangers, Jump to Drugs, page d4
Football team lights up scoreboard by Steve Turney
Sports Editor
STEVE TURNEY
As the football team entered the 2003 season, they knew that wins wouldn’t come very easily. But they didn’t expect to start out the season with a 2-4 overall record (1-1 conference), either. “It’s been a rough start,” head coach Tom Smailes said about the team’s performance so far.
“We haven’t had the success that we thought was attainable.” The team underwent a massive change going from last year ’s team to this year. Offensively, they lost their most efficient and consistent performers in running backs Nick Lindsey and Scott Verti, the team leaders in rushing. Jump to Football, page d4
d2: sports
friday, oct. 10
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Sports Editor: Steve Turney
UFO sighting
sportsbriefs
Ultimate frisbee gains popularity at Rosborough
The girls Poudre School District field hockey team is showing what it takes to be successful. “I think we’re doing extraordinarily well,” said head field hockey coach Tami Agne-Moehle. “We probably have the best record that we’ve had up to date and we are happy about that.” The team is 6-3-3 for their overall record and 5-2-1 for their league record. Their 5th place ranking is very impressive with only Kent Denver, Cherry Creek, Smoky Hill, and Colorado Academy ahead of them. Jaime Schilling is one of the top players on the team from Rocky, and the team’s top scorer. The team has been unable to get her the ball in the midfield but she makes up for it in the circle when she scores. “It’s an intense game, and a game that requires a great deal of skill,” said AgneMoehle. “Our girls have learned the skills pretty quickly, I’m extraordinarily proud of how hard they’ve worked.” - Joey Murphey
‘Fire’ on fire
by Joey Murphey
Asst. Sports Editor
A UFO has been spotted at Rosborough Park. This UFO is not full of aliens but is full of Rocky students. Since last year, students have been flocking to the park to see what the commotion is all about. They soon found out that the UFO has nothing to do with extraterrestrial life, but is an acronym for Ultimate Frisbee Organization. Recently, ultimate frisbee has become more and more popular. UFO has only been around for several months, but it is gaining popularity very rapidly. During the first week of the organization, there were around 40 students who participated. As of today, there are more than 50 who come both Tuesday and Friday to compete. “It’s off to a great start,” said mathematics teacher Todd Pfeifer, leader of the organization. “It just started and for such a large turn out so early, I’m pretty impressed.” Ultimate frisbee is like football with a frisbee, but once you catch it, you can’t run. You throw the frisbee to your teammates to try and cross the endline. If the frisbee is dropped at any time, the team who threw
I don’t think we’ll have any problem with it becoming a club in the near future. It’s such a positive thing that I don’t think they’ll turn it down. -Todd Pfeifer, teacher and ultimate frisbee player E RIK PINKSTON
the frisbee no longer has possession of the frisbee and the defensive team gets possession. “Ultimate frisbee rocks,” said senior Tyler Wilson. “It’s the coolest thing out there right now.” Ultimate frisbee is an activity that gives students the opportunity to compete together. It is a great workout and helps students get in shape. It is like interval training because it involves jogging and sprinting. The students also must gel as a team and communicate to be successful, which teaches them teamwork. It is a fun positive atmosphere and the students learn sportmanship as well. There are two fields that are set up at Rosborough. Students can just play for fun on the recreation field or there is a competitive field for students
UNIDENTIFIED FLYING OBJECTS: Math teacher, Todd Pfeifer and other members of Rocky’s UFO team play an intense game at Rosborough Park. The club was established last year and is rapidly growing with popularity this year.
who want to compete at the state level. “I don’t really want to open it up to other schools,” Pfeifer said. “I’d rather encourage schools like Poudre and Fort Collins to start their own teams so that we can have some competition.” Not only do current students play, but so do many teachers, as well. In addition to Pfeifer, science teacher David Swartz and language arts teacher Evan Schneider come to help out. The UFO also involves people of the community, according to Pfeifer. Bill and Holly Wright, of Wright Life have donated frisbees and will donate shirts. There is also a professional ultimate frisbee player who will help out and conduct some
clinics. “I don’t think we’ll have any problem with it becoming a club in the near future because of the number of kids we have come out and people get involved from the community,” Pfeifer said. “It’s such a positive thing that I don’t think they’ll turn it down.” According to Pfiefer, there are many high schools in Denver that have ultimate frisbee teams already. Rocky’s UFO went to a state tounament last year and experienced competing at the state level. “All of the elements are in place,” said Pfeifer. “It’s just a matter of getting more people involved and I can definitely see it becoming a sport in two to three years.”
Cheerleaders focus on overall school spirit STOMP AND SCREAM: The cheerleading team performs one of their cheers during a football game. The squad is focusing on more spirit in their cheers.
by Steve Turney
Sports Editor
The cheerleading team has a new concept for their cheers and attitude during this year ’s sporting events. They have decided the theme is going to be spirit, spirit, and more spirit. It is a common stereotype among cheerleaders and people involved in cheerleading that squads are totally focused on getting ready for big competitions rather than concentrating on school cheers. But this is something cheerleading coach Cresta Mason has decided she would like to change. “This year we are really trying to focus more on school spirit,” Mason said. “At the first football halftime show we performed
STEVE T URNEY
with the dance team, so we’re trying to keep things closer to the students and to the school.” The cheerleaders are not going to nationals this year, but they will compete in competitions. Their first competition is Dec. 6, which is an NCA (National Cheerleaders
Association) competition. The team will be competing in the state competition Dec. 12. The team got 11th out of 33 teams last year and hope to do well again this year. “We were the only Northern Colorado school to place that high last year,” Mason said
about last year’s nationals. “So that was really good for us.” Another important thing to the squad and their coaches is respect. The team does not necessarily want the satisfaction of being called “athletes” or having their activity be classified as a “sport.” They just want to be respected as girls who work hard and support the school in every positive way possible. There are 35 girls on varsity and JV combined, and Mason has tried her best to split up the squad in order to make sure that each team gets supported every time they have a contest. Accordingly, the backbone of the team this year is spirit and respect and the squad will represent Rocky with the best squad around.
♦GOLF: Charlie Ross is “up to par” when
it comes to being a first year head coacAh for the boy’s golf team, even though the golf team fell short of state, Ross hopes that the program will continue to grow. “Ross is a good guy,” said Mike Beecher who is the only senior on the team. “He started to come around at the end of the season.” This year, no player qualified for the state tournament on the team. According to Ross, a couple of golfers came close but were unable to qualify. He said that the sophomores and juniors that went to the regional meet gained some valuable experience and he hopes the golfers put that to work next season. “We were quite disappointed at regionals,” said Beecher. “But the rest of the season went relatively well for us being so young, we have all underclassmen coming up and they’ll all be good next year.” Ross believes that he learned a lot this first season. He learned about administrating the team and learned more about teaching technique. He gained a lot of knowledge this season and hopes to use it with coaching in the future. Except for the few months in winter, Ross is hoping that golf will become a year long sport. He wants the kids to play and practice as much as they can to better themselves at golf. Ross looks at golf as a continuous sport and the golfers will get better as they become more experienced. “We had a very young team and I think there were some valuable lessons that were learned,” said Ross. “The season is over for us at this point but we have already started the process for improving on next year.” - Joey Murphey
♦ GYMNASTICS: As the gymnastics
team heads into the final stretch of their season, they know they have some work to do especially since conference rival Loveland is the No. 1 team in state. Haley Schofield has been an absolutely amazing performer all year long for the Lobos. She is ranked in the top five in all categories of performance and No. 2 allaround with an average of 38.27. She is ranked No. 1 on bars with an average score of 9.70, No. 2 in balance beam, and floor, and 5th on vault. The team is the No.2 team in state overall behind Loveland, but the Lobos have already beaten Loveland once this year and know they can easily do it again. The Lobos have four more competitions, including state, remaining before the season is over. The Lobos are excited to go to the state competition and try to regain their stride of state champions, something they accomplshed in 2000. - Steve Turney
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friday, oct. 10
Sports Editor: Steve Turney
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Not satisfied Boys’ soccer team struggles with rivals by Steve Turney
Sports Editor
DEBRA WILLIAMS
HEADS UP: Sophomore Jarrett Ponsolle (right) flies high after heading the ball in a game against Greeley Central. The Lobos beat the Wildcats 3-1 during an up and down season. The team will play Collins tomorrow at 3 p.m.
After playing more than 80 minutes of tough, hardcore soccer against Poudre on Sept. 18, the Lobos were stunned when Poudre finally scored the game’s only goal in overtime, sending nearly every Rocky player to his knees in exhaustion and utter shock. “The initial reaction was ‘what happened?’,” head coach Mark Whitman said about his the reaction to the team. “If it was someone who really would have taken a great shot and finished it, we might have been okay with it. But ending such a great game on such a weak goal, really kind of broke it.” The Lobos, who are 7-6 (4-4 conference) still have high hopes for the season and they know that the loss to Poudre is not going to end their season. “We used that (Poudre game)
and told ourselves ‘Okay, it’s time to get pissed off ’,” Whitman said in all seriousness. “So we need to go out and play the rest of the season hard.” The season has been a roller coaster ride so far, stretching from dominating very tough competition, such as Horizon 20, to losing to Legacy 2-0 in a game the Lobos never expected to end that way. “So far the season has gone all right,” junior speedster Randy Albertz said. “The loss to Poudre was a definite upset, but we’ll get them next time. But all in all, it’s a good start.” Unfortunately, Albertz’s prediction was incorrect, and the Lobos lost to the Impalas last Saturday night, 4-0. Albertz is the team’s leading scorer with 10 goals and is one of the conference’s top scorers so far this season, helping his total was a four-goal game
against conference foe Loveland. Senior teammate Casey Helburg is one of the team’s leaders and knows what the team needs to help stay on track. “The mentality of the team is pretty focused,” Helburg said. “We all know what we have to do, and now we just have to go and get it done.” The team is solid overall with offensive threats and defensive playmakers, but there is always room for improvement. “We have to get the easy goals,” Whitman said. “Sometimes we can get the great goals, but now we need to get the easy goals. We need to focus on getting the simple goals in the back of the net in highpressure games.” The Lobos will play their final conference game tomorrow against Collins at 3 p.m. at French Field.
Parry takes over cross country team by Joey Murphey
Asst. Sports Editor
The new cross country coach hopes to bring a new style of coaching to cross country. Bob Parry is the new head coach for both the girls’ and boys’ cross country teams following former coach Wes Crist. “I’m excited to be at Rocky,” said Parry, former teacher and coach at Collins. “I am enjoying the sport and the team-like feeling that happens in the building process.” Parry’s motivation to become coach came from having good experiences in high school and athletics. From this, he wants to give back to the kids. According to Parry, Rocky cross country is about the athlete. His coaching philosophy
I’m excited to be at Rocky. I am enjoying the sport and the team-like feeling that happens in the building process. -Robert Parry, new cross country coach
is to coach to the kid, not to the sport. He hopes to individualize as much as he can and try to develop the total person/total athlete concept. From this comes a very positive approach to coaching. He wants to surround the athletes with incredible assistant coaches. He believes that the reasons for the team’s success and attitude is the assistant coaches that he has hired and a really good student body that he has to work with. Getting the athletes to
understand training also is important to Parry. He wants to connect better with not only the athletes but also the parents. He wants the kids to enjoy what they are doing and hopes that it becomes a life long activity for them. “I like him (Parry). He has made a lot of good changes to the program,” said junior Wil Buchanan. “We will see a lot of benefits now and in the future.” Parry’s coaching is working well for the teams this year. The
team is looking forward to going back to state this season. Last year the boys’ and girls’ teams finished 12th and they are very capable of reaching this again or possibly doing better. They must be in the top 4 of 12 teams in they’re region to reach the state meet. According to Parry, the girls’ team is really doing well but the boys have a tough fight to get to state. “The runners are young but they are tough,” said Parry. “They are very competitive and the team is starting to gel.” According to Parry, some key runners on the boys’ team are juniors Buchanan, Jared Aldern, Aaron Braun, and Cody Bordewyk. However there is a big gap between the team’s 3rd and 5th runners and they’re getting beat because this gap
affects their pack time (pack time is where the first five runners of each team have their final time added together). “This year is kind of like a rebuilding year because we lost four seniors,” said Buchanan. “But, it’s going pretty well.” On the girls’ team, sophomore Danielle Parry, freshmen McKynzie Maher, Ellie Rastall, Emily Felton, sophomore Amanda Grant, freshman Alysse Fawcett, and senior Adrienne Parry are key runners. The girls are doing better than the boys because their pack time is less and their top five finishers finish very close together. “The girls are doing really well this year,” said senior Ashleigh Morton. “It’s a lot different with the new coach, but fun.”
Volleyball team ranked No. 5 by Steve Turney
Sports Editor
The volleyball team has gotten off to a quick, successful start this year, and is smelling a possible conference title in the future with a 12-4 (6-1 conference) record. “This season in general has gone really well so far, considering we started 4-0,” head coach Krista Schwartz said. “We went to the Cherry Creek tournament and saw good competition, and we know what he have to look forward to down the line.” The team lost to Doherty, Heritage, and host Cherry Creek in that tourney. However, those are three of only four losses the team has this year. Also, each match consists of three games, and out of 16 matches the team has lost only 9 of 48 games. Although they are playing very well, they know they need to improve. “We need to become more consistent instead of sporatic,”
Schwartz said. “Also, our communication could be improved as well.” The Lobos have had a lot of success so far. The Lobos were recently ranked No. 6 in state, and were also ranked in the top 10 in state in kills and blocks. “We expect to win the conference,“ Schwartz said. “Then we’re planning on going into a solid postseason.” The Lobos ended last season with a 22-7 overall record, and were the 5th place team overall at state, and look forward to the state competition this year. “We’re all bonding really well and coming together,” senior Amanda Lawler said. “We have a chance to be in the state championship too, and we just have to play at a high consistent level and reach our full potential so hopefully we can make it to the final four in state.” The team plays Collins Oct. 16, and they know that in order to win conference they will have to win tough conference games.
Varsity basketball and baseball player Steve Turney and varsity volleyball and basketball player Sara Hunter
d4 eventcoverage
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Page Editor: Steve Turney
Friday, October 10
Wreaking rank havoc:
✔ No. 1 Collins, 1-0 ✔ No. 4 Poudre, 8-4
Softball poised after securing league crown by Steve Turney and Amy White
Staff
The fan capacity is overwhelming at every varsity softball game. Through rain or shine, hail or snow, the dedicated fans of the girls’ softball team stand loyal and proud of their team that is currently ranked No. 2 in state after a tough loss to Collins last Thursday. Senior Danny Murphy has been involved in nearly all the team’s wins by striking out 82 batters and having a .52 ERA, complementing her 14-2 record. Additionally, she has only allowed 7 earned runs in 106 innings pitched so far this season. Murphy is easily one of the top pitchers in the state. Offensively, senior Julia Kloppe holds .457 batting average, meaning she gets a hit almost half the time she goes to bat. She leads the team in batting average and has nine doubles and four home runs.
PHOTOS BY ERIK P INKSTON
WE’RE READY: Above, senior Julia Kloppe looks in as senior Danny Murphy pitches. Above right, sophomore Sara Curry looks intense in the dugout. Far right, senior Amanda MacIntyre gets prepares to slide against Collins. Right, the team gathers around head coach Jeff Michie as he gives the team some imprtant words of wisdom.
“We’ve finally started to come together as a team, and play well,” said left fielder Tonya Hoag. “Our motivation and
team spirit gives us the confidence to win state. I really think we can do it.” The team will head into the
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Tennis
believe they’re going to find anybody else that will put in the time and effort and what it takes to coach those kids.” Junior tennis player Logan Corcoran was directly affected by Wilson’ s departure. “I thought Gary was a great coach and it hit me really hard and I got really upset about it,” said Corcoran. “I really didn’t have anything to play for after that because I worked with him almost every single day this whole summer, and it was hard for me to adjust to the new coaches.” Athletic director Wayne Moddelmog said Wilson was put on a plan of improvement that was monitored by supervisors. The administration tried to make adjustments and improvements in his coaching and those improvements were not being followed through. “All of our athletes should be FROM PAGE D1
I thought Gary was a great coach and it hit me really hard and I got really upset about it. -Logan Corcoran, tennis player
treated fairly and ethically,” said Moddlemog. “If our players aren’t going to be treated fairly and ethically then we as an administration are going to have an issue with that.” Said Corcoran, “I think a lot of the parents were complaining about the way he handled the challenge matches, and I think a lot of it was because of empty complaints that shouldn’t of happened.” Wilson thinks that he deserved a little more consideration than he was given because he had been a tennis coach for so long and had put
in so much time with the kids. “I was shocked,” said Wilson. Assistants under Wilson, Cindy MacMaster and Mike Hadswick,will now run the program until a replacement can be hired. “We have put them in a very difficult position,” said Moddelmog. “It is very difficult to ask someone to come in in the middle of the season and try to pick up the pieces. They’ve done a good job.” This season has been tough for the team, which finished with a losing record and did not qualify any players to the state tournament. However, the boys’ team graduates only one senior. “They need to move on and show their courage and strength and play for themselves and the team also,” said Wilson. “They are great kids and I miss them with all my heart, but I think they’re going to be fine.”
Layer
basketball season for using an ineligible player. “Sportsmanship is at the heart of why games were originated in the first place. In a perfect world participating would be enough,” CSU men’s head basketball coach Dale Layer said on his view of sports ethics. “However, no coach or athlete is perfect and competition can bring out the worst in people. There should certainly be a balance between the joy of play and an intense desire to win within the rules of the game.”
postseason with the title of conference champs. The Lobos ended conference play with an 9-2 record (15-4 overall record)
Football
with losses to Collins and Thompson Valley. The team is in position to host districts and the first round of state competition.
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They also lost some defensive standouts like Tyler MorganMauro, Jeff Barberio, and Tyler Kidd, as well. Lack of run production early in the season caused the Lobos to pass the ball a good amount more than they ran the football. “We’re going to do what the defense gives us,” Smailes said. “In two of the four games we’ve played, we’ve been behind in the fourth quarter, and we’ve had to throw the ball to play catch-up. But we do not want to throw as much as we’ve been throwing.” Last year, the Lobos averaged 16.6 points per game, 163 rush yards, and 104 pass yards per game. This year the team is averaging 18 points per game due to the help from their last two performances where the team scored 40 and 42 points. The team is averaging 145 rush yards per game and 147 pass FROM PAGE D1
yards through six games this year. Previous to its two recent wins, the team was averaging 6.3 points per game. The goal for the rest of the season is obviously to win football games, and the coaches know that getting to state is still possible as long as they win out the rest of their games. “We just have to continue to do the same things we’re doing,” Smailes said. “But the main thing we have to do is look at each game as a singular type of contest and not focus on our record. We’ve still got four more regular season games to play, and that in itself is motivation.” The team needs no motivation in their conference and city rivalry games against Collins and Poudre. The Lobos play Collins tomorrow at French Field at 11:00 a.m. in a conference game that is a must win for the team.
wrote a chapter about steroid use in the Major League Baseball in his best- selling book. In the chapter, he admits to using steroids during his MVP season. “Athletes who use steroids are just admitting that they aren’t as good without them. It takes away from their success,” said Hess. Athletes like David Justice admit to using creatine, a natural supplement. Although creatine is not illegal, Hess says that it is still ethically wrong.
“Creatine is not bad, because it’s all natural, but using it should not be allowed because it gives too much of an advantage,” said Hess. Drug and steroid use is a major problem, and whether or not it’s “illegal,” Hess says there should still be a huge punishment. “It has become almost like ‘oh well, just another athlete’, but there should be huge consequences for drug use, professional sports or not,” said Hess.
Drugs Layer, father of junor Tim Layer, was named the CSU men’s head coach in April of 2000. “NCAA rules are always part of each day in the life of any collegiate coach,” Layer said. “The NCAA Manual is nearly 500 pages thick. Balancing the letter of the law, trying to outwork others, and seeing to the needs of individual studentathletes can come into conflict.” When it comes to sports ethics, it’s surprising how foolish people act. For example,
Harrick, a former men’s basketball coach at the University of Georgia, paid living expenses for a player of his. Also, that same player received an “A” in a class taught by Harrick’s son, a class which the player never once attended. “The NCAA rules and interpretations change almost daily,” Layer said. “We study and get advice nearly every day to try and keep up. One could almost compare some of the rules to never driving over the speed limit in a car.”