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Lobos roll to 4-2 mark
Rocky Mountain
Highlighter The student voice of Rocky Mountain High School 1300 W. Swallow Rd. Fort Collins, CO 80526
Brad Boda: Identity Pending
Sports Page A12
Greg Lewis
Oct. 15, 2009 Volume 37, No. 3
Born to be wild
►Junior Jacob Wolfe puts the pedal to the metal as a sprint car racer.
Sports page A12
Cheerleading policies
Boda’s arrest brings shock to community
►Some of the requirements for cheerleaders have some scratching their heads.
Rocky’s difficult week ►Principal Lopez leads the school through a counselor arrest and a bomb threat.
by ELAINA TROUSIL Features editor
Two different people: the same person. Brad Boda, 39, recently suspended counselor, portrayed just this. Boda was arrested at his parents’ house on Wednesday, Sept. 23, 2009, accused by Longmont police of sexually assaulting several minors while working as a youth counselor at Christ Our Savior Lutheran Church in Longmont from 1994-2004. At Rocky, Boda has been known for being a great counselor and a likable person. Hired in 2000, he was loved, respected, cared about and trusted by people at the school. “It’s obviously a tragedy,” said Principal Tom Lopez. “I am saddened that our school is heightened with under-
Allie Daniels
Difficult circumstances: Suspended counselor Brad Boda (center) walks to the Boulder County Jail with his sister and attorney, John Pineau (left), for a court hearing on Oct. 2. Below are Boda’s 2008 school photo and his arrest mug shot.
►Behind the scenes of the Musical Theatre Production’s Barnum.
School pulls together to move past Boda allegations When difficult events shake a school, there are two possible situations that can unfold. Under one circumstance, the school character could crumble as the weight of the events comes crashing down on each student and staff member, disrupting any chance of keeping the tenacity of the school intact. Under the other, the school could rally together because of the events, revive
the strength of unity that the school is known for and look to the future. Rocky has chosen the latter—to persevere. “I urge everyone in the Lobos community to focus on their purpose and mission,” Principal Tom Lopez said. “This is how we can move forward.” On Sept. 23, counselor Brad Boda was arrested for multiple counts of sexual assault on a child, stemming from his work at previous jobs in Longmont. Today,
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The circus comes to town
Jump to BODA, page A3
by COLTON KLEMPERER co-editor-In-chief
Opinion
his corner Student Services office sits vacant and is in the process of being renovated as Boda has been suspended indefinitely. The news of the arrest and the absence at school of the popular counselor was difficult for nearly everyone in the school community because many students and staff alike considered him a close friend. It was not an uncommon sight to see multiple students, some of whom didn’t even have Boda as a counselor, asking
him for advice on aspects of not just high school, but of life in general. Along with his counseling responsibilities, Boda was also a co-sponsor for Student Council and a liaison to the Spirit Committee. Members of Student Council are working to move past these events by continuing to stay busy and being there for each other. “We haven’t really let this Jump to ROCKY, page A3
Limelight page B8
And you can quote me ► “Especially in times of crisis, Lobos have always come together for one another. This means acting with integrity, respecting everybody’s opinions and simply being there for others in their times of need.”
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-Tyler Janzen, Student Body president
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October 15, 2009
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Igniting a short fuse
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School faces bomb threat at end of difficult week by COLTEN SANDERS reporter
Tensions were high at Rocky on Friday, Sept. 25, after a bomb threat was made two days after counselor Brad Boda was arrested on allegations of sexual assault. At 10:45 a.m., a call was received by the front office from a blocked number that claimed there was a bomb on school grounds. The caller did not present any further information, but quickly hung up the phone. Principal Tom Lopez acted swiftly by activating a Code 99 lockdown, which is meant to shut down the school in the presence of a crisis. The Fort Collins Police responded quickly to secure the premises and help the administrators perform a thorough sweep for unknown and potentially dangerous packages. Worried parents began to show up outside of the school after receiving frantic texts from their kids. A concerned father waiting in front of the school for his daughter described the threat as “just another black eye for Rocky.” The school was declared safe at 11:20 a.m., and the lockdown was lifted at 11:23 a.m. Shortly afterwards, parents received e-mails from Lopez informing them that the threat had been a false alarm and the school day would resume as normal. However, some students decided not to return for third and fourth periods because they felt unsafe returning to class. Lopez made the critical decision to resume the school day because he, as well as fellow administrators and the police on scene, believed the school was safe. Lopez also made the decision because he said he believes that domestic terrorists, such as the
person behind the false bomb threat, should not be in control of the education of the students. “I would never put students’ safety in jeopardy,” Lopez said. “However, I do feel that if we had ended the school day, we would have been victims to the threat, and by resuming the day, we were not allowing ourselves to be victimized.” Lopez was applauded by the superintendent for following procedure in the bomb threat crisis and has received more than 100 e-mails from members of the community thanking him for his leadership and composure. He said he received very few negative e-mails, some of which were the result of false information. Officials said that it is a possibility that Rocky’s recent media exposure may have encouraged an outraged person with connections to Boda or the school to retaliate; however, no other information about the investigation has been released at this time. School Resource Officer Mark Larkin is in charge of the active investigation. He encourages anyone who has information about the bomb threat on Sept. 25 to contact him in his office on the south side of the Commons. Fossil Ridge High School received two bomb threats on Oct. 5, just two weeks after the bomb threat at Rocky. It is unknown whether there is a connection between Fossil’s threats and Rocky’s. A similar incident in West Michigan’s Sparta High School on Sept. 28, 2009, resulted in and 18-year-old student facing a four-year prison sentence for making a false bomb threat. Bomb threats are a felony and will remain on the offender’s record even if they are juveniles at the time the crime.
Colten Sanders
Protecting the public: Administrator Wayne Moddelmog investigates the west parking lot during the Code 99. Rocky experienced a bomb threat on Friday, Sept. 25, during second period.
Swine flu sweeps through school, district by TESS HALAC Center section editor
What was once considered a joke has now turned serious. Calls from Rocky were made this past spring to all students and parents stressing the importance of good hygiene in order to avoid contracting swine flu, or H1N1 flu. While most did not take this caution seriously and laughed it off, the flu has now officially hit the school, and from reports, the worst is yet to come. “I was not concerned about it
Keys to flu prevention ►Get vaccinated each year ►Avoid close contact. ►Stay home when you are sick. ►Cover your mouth and nose. (the swine flu) because I had done some research when it first came out,” junior Brad Burback said. “I just came to the conclusion that it wasn’t that big of a deal.” This illness is especially taking a toll on the school’s new
►Clean your hands. ►Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth. ►Practice other good health habits. Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
attendance policy, which requires attendance contracts to be drawn up after three absences, regardless of it being excused or unexcused. However, with recent setbacks, Rocky is now adapting to a new, slightly-altered policy that specifi-
cally deals with students who have the flu. According to Health Technician Barb Cynkar, if students are being excused by parents specifically citing flu symptoms, they are marked with a special code so that they won’t be dropped from class for attendance. Rocky put this policy in place to avoid having students come to class while contagious and infecting the other students and teachers. Currently, the health office is seeing up to 10 students a day with flu-like symptoms, depending on the day. Blevins Middle School is also highly affected by the swine flu, seeing a high of a 20 percent absentee rate. Without the flu, their normal attendance rate fluctuates around 95 percent. Like Rocky, the middle school has seen its fair share of challenges that have come along with swine flu. “We have had several teachers out with the flu over the past two weeks,” Principal David Linehan said. “Having staff out of the building is always a challenge to our school community. We have also had to reschedule some athletic events and may even have to reschedule a few orchestra and choir performances.” Both schools are working to create a sympathetic environment towards the flu. If you’re being responsible and staying up on work, we’re (the teachers) not going to kick you out,” Cynkar said. “We’re not that kind of school. The point is to stay in contact with your teachers. They’re not mean guys.” Burback contracted the H1N1 flu the week of Sept. 21, and missed four days of school
because of it. He also missed two days earlier in the school year because of a sinus infection. Since he missed more than five days of school, it would normally be grounds for dropping him from his classes. However, Burback said that none of his teachers has talked to him concerning his absences, and they have been very understanding about his illness. “All three of my teachers have been more than willing to help me out with assignments and postponing test dates,” Burback said. “I think because of the duration of how long I was out, they were more susceptible to helping me out.” Burback said it has taken him almost three weeks to get caught up on everything that he missed. He has been using his fourth period off hour to make up assignments and tests. “I have great communication with all my teachers, and they do the best they can to keep me updated,” Burback said. Blevins has tried to keep its regular school routine in place; still, the school did implement preparations to avoid further spread of the H1N1 flu. “We did have our school nurse in the building for several days in a row, which is outside her regular once-a-week routine,” Linehan said. “Our health technician has done a fabulous job working with students and families.” Despite challenges, Burback said it’s been “smooth sailing” making up work from his illness. In order to prevent swine flu spreading, Cynkar said to “get lots of rest, stay well hydrated, and wash your hands.” “It’s back to the basics,” Cynkar said.
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Boda from page A1 standing that one of our staff has created suspicion.” Boda was involved as a sponsor or leader in multiple school activities and committees at Rocky, including StuCo, Crisis Response Team, Curriculum/Registration Guide contact, College/Career Planning Guide for Seniors Co-Coordinator, Scholarship Committee Member and Curricular Affairs Committee,. “I know him (Boda) from Student Council,” said junior Anna Napelbaum. “It’s hard to see him as one of those kinds of people (as described in Boda’s police report).” He was, to Rocky, an all-around great person students, one parents and faculty would like to have in a school environment. And so far, no sexual assault allegations have surfaced connected to his work at the school. “He (Boda) was fully engaged with our students and worked hard with them,” said Lopez, the only school official authorized to talk of the arrest. “He did what he was hired for.” But, according to the Longmont Police Department’s 85-page affidavit for warrant of arrest, Boda was a completely different person. The affidavit describes how Boda used his position as a counselor and mentor at Christ Our Savior Lutheran Church in Longmont to get close to kids, and allegedly develop sexual relationships with them. One Rocky junior, who requested his identity remain anonymous because of fear of backlash from classmates, is a student who does not support Boda at all. “From what I hear on the news, I think he’s a horrible person,” the junior said. “He needs mental help. I’m shocked. I think he is the Boda that has been portrayed in the police report. I think he’s been covering it.”
Gathering place: Before suspended counselor Brad Boda’s arrest, his Student Services office, which looked out onto Red Rox Commons, was a place many students visited to discuss school problems and other issues. It is now being used by counselor Jo Lacricchio.
Elaina Trousil
Others, however, see Boda as the popular counselor who occupied a Student Services window office overlooking Red Rox Commons. “I see him as a good person,” said freshman Shelby Clark. “It was 10 years ago. He could be a lot different.” Two different people: the same person. At an Oct. 2, 2009, court advisement hearing at the Boulder County Jail —his first public appearance since the arrest —Boda showed up to the jail with his sister and attorney, John Pineau. Boda, wearing a dress shirt and tie, walked to the entrance with his sister, their arms linked. As the small group approached the building, Boda appeared confident and calm when confronted by reporters from CBS Channel 4 news and the Fort Collins Coloradoan. However, as Boda neared the doorway, he was approached by Rocky Mountain Highlighter reporters, who asked if he had
anything to say to the Rocky community. Boda then appeared agitated that the student reporters were there. After looking straight at the reporters, Boda continued into the building without a comment. In the courtroom, Boda sat with his sister and attorney until the judge called his case. When in front of the judge, Boda stood tall and didn’t move. He spoke quietly when the judge asked him questions, too quietly for RM Highlighter reporters to hear. The judge stated the hearing where prosecutors ask for and were granted additional time to develop their case, hoping other possible victims will come forward. The new advisement hearing date has been set for Nov. 2, 2009. Prosecutors are expected to file official charges against Boda at that time. The original arrest affidavit details Boda’s behavior with four victims and defines 12 separate charges. Boda is cur-
Boda should be remembered for what he did for school It was a little over a week ago, the last time I stepped foot in Mr. Boda’s office. I had never really known Boda. He wasn’t my counselor, and after maybe four StuCo meetings last year, I had a pretty firm understanding that it wasn’t exactly for me. The only times I had ever really made contact with him were in his office when I needed sources for a story. I suppose those visits were few and far between, but looking back on them, I always entered with the impression that his office made up about ten square feet of one of the friendliest, most open-armed areas that Rocky had to offer. However, for the last month or so, what was once Boda’s personal corner of student services has been treated as a crime scene, and the windows that once held images of an office crowded with students and teachers alike, have been blinded from view. So when my co-editor Colton Klemperer and I finally found the door to what had quickly become one of the least accessible offices in the school open, I wasn’t completely sure what to expect on the other side. The atmosphere inside was definitely not comfortable. Snapping pictures for a front page that we weren’t overly excited to make, I couldn’t shake the feeling that something just felt creepy about his office. It wasn’t dark or cold, but there
Hakuna Matata Greg Lewis was something that made my arm hair stand on end. It felt like the room had a ghost. His physical presence was gone, but it seemed that there was another reason for the emptiness lingering within the office. True, the room was essentially blank, having already been searched and cleaned out, but that wasn’t what was missing. Then I figured it out. Every time I had ever stepped inside that room, Boda was never alone. There was always someone there: a student, a teacher, a friend. It seems to me that Boda’s office was home to a lot of people. It was a place that was friendly and safe. It was a place where students who were close to him brought more than just their schedules and college worries. It was a place where people could talk about their problems with school, relationships, and their families. It held secrets that kids would only tell their closest friends, because to many students, that’s who Boda was; a friend. Immediately after Boda’s arrest, the wonderful technology that the 21st century has provided us with allowed the news and doubt to spread
like a bad disease through the pages of Facebook. While some instantly fell ill to the news of the accusations surrounding his past, passing Boda-bashing gossip onto their friends, others who were closer to him fought to stay immune, supporting him and hoping for the best. I’m sad to say that unfortunately, after reading a small portion of Boda’s police report, my opinion has probably changed for the worse. However, when you see maybe a hundred people posting their support for someone who was accused of crimes as severe as he was online, you realize that that person has had an impact on a lot of peoples’ lives. When Brad Boda was at Rocky, I’d like to think that he helped a lot of people. In fact I know that he helped a lot of people, and he was still helping people within days of his arrest. Right now there seem to be two Bodas: the one we knew and the one that we hope no one ever knew. At this place in time, his fate will be determined by the court system, but how individuals remember him is up to them. No matter whether he is proven innocent or guilty, the Boda who was there for so many kids in need did exist, and that’s the part of him that those close to him need to carry with them in their times of need now, and for the rest of their lives. Greg Lewis is a senior and co-editor-in-chief of the RM Highlighter.
rently free on $50,000 bond. On the way out of the jail at the original advisement hearing, RM Highlighter reporters again asked Boda for a statement. Shaking his head while walking away, he again failed to comment. Left with that, the Rocky community remains stunned by the allegations brought against Boda, who is suspended with pay, and by the accompanying media attention. Students still have mixed opinions— some supportive, some not. Most, though, have strong feelings about which person Boda really is. “Some people do have two sides to them,” said Napelbaum. “I’ve always seen him as the counselor at Rocky who knows what he’s doing.” “True personality?” added Lopez. “I don’t know what that means. What’s mine?” Two different people: the same person.
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slow us down,” Senior Class Secretary Rachel Wagner said. “As a group, we knew we had responsibilities to fulfill for our student body. Homecoming is just around the corner, and we knew it was necessary to come together, be there for each other and also be there for our student body.” Wagner also said she believes that recent events have actually helped Student Council become stronger as a group. “Student Council is truly a family,” Wagner said. “We are a very close group. Although it’s a really tough situation, it’s making us stronger.” With Boda’s absence, the school faculty and staff have been forced to fill the void left by such an important part of the functioning of the school. Consumer and Family Studies teacher Patti Mogorit has been chosen as Boda’s replacement, and she will start the new position on Oct. 19, when the 2nd quarter starts. In addition, other counselors have taken on additional tasks, helping to complete Boda’s duties for this quarter. “Our remaining counselors have completed the senior meetings with our seniors,” Lopez said, “completing the caseload that was Mr. Boda’s, so that those students were not lost in the necessary advisement to complete their graduation requirements and prepare for post-secondary options.”
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Student Council is truly a family. We are a very close group. Although it’s a really tough situation, it’s making us stronger. Rachel Wagner, Senior Class secretary
To put further strain on the students and staff, the school experienced an authentic Code 99 lockdown after a bomb threat was called in on the Friday following Boda’s arrest. Through these challenging times, Student Body President Tyler Janzen stresses that it is important for everyone in the school to stick together. “Especially in times of crisis, Lobos have always come together for one another,” Janzen said. “This means acting with integrity, respecting everybody’s opinions and simply being there for others in their times of need.” Janzen also commented on the strength present in the school, in both the staff and the students. “The entire staff at Rocky is incredible at understanding and helping students through tough times, provided the students seek out their help,” Janzen said. “I have also been amazed at the level of support among students themselves. We truly are an amazing and united group of young adults, and I am proud to say that I am a Lobo.”
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Just say yes: During the volleyball match against Legacy High School, senior Joe Kehrwald asked senior volleyball player Brooke Fenwick to Homecoming with some help from some friends. The increased population of the school has many students worried about overcrowding at the Homecoming Dance.
Forensics team Highlighter finalist top 10% in nation for Pacemaker The forensics and debate team has received the 100 Club award. According to sponsor Doug Cole, the award is given to a school that has earned 100 degrees in the In past year. One Brief degree is earned when a member of the team has placed first in five or more competitions. The award recognizes the team as one of the top 10 percent forensics programs in the nation. The varsity season’s first competition is Nov. 7.
StuCo hosts Trick-or-Treat Street On Oct. 29, StuCo will be hosting the annual Trick-orTreat Street. Parents will have the opportunity to bring their children to the school to safely trick-or-treat through the halls. In past years, this event has drawn up to 400 kids and parents, and a large turnout will be expected this year, as well. Contact Jennifer Adams or William Sloop for more information.
-Colton Klemperer
The National Scholastic Press Association has made the Rocky Mountain Highlighter a Pacemaker finalist, an award that is the equivalent of the Pulitzer Prize for high school journalism. This is the third time the RM Highlighter has been a Pacemaker finalist, winning the award once in 2006. Forty other high schools across the nation are also finalists, including the Arapahoe (H.S.) Herald in Centennial and the Surveyor (George Washington H.S.) in Denver. Winners will be announced at the Washington D.C. NSPA convention of Nov. 12-15.
Talent Show tryouts
This year’s talent show tryouts will be held on Wednesday, Oct. 28, after school in the mini-theater. No bands will be accepted into the show, and a variety of acts is needed: singers, dancers, comedians, etc. The talent show will be on Thursday, Nov. 5 at 7 p.m. Tickets will be available for $5 each.
-Chloe Evans
Highlighter Archives
Trick or Treat: Costumed kids search for candy at last year’s Trick-orTreat Street. Clubs will be asked to help “adopt” a room and give treats out to children who follow the trick-or-treat route inside Rocky.
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Mary Willson
Rocking out
Lack of space causes Homecoming concerns by ALLIE DANIELS reporter
Last year, 1,100 out of the school’s 1,700 students attended the Homecoming Dance. What happens this year with an extra 485 students? That’s the biggest concern for the Oct. 24 dance. With the freshmen added to the school’s population, the dance is expected to be even more packed than it was last year. “Well, there will certainly be more people there,” Student Council sponsor Jennifer Adams said. “We are doing our best to make sure that there is plenty of dance space available for everyone.” At the Homecoming Dance last year, the Commons was overcrowded and uncomfortable. Room was especially scarce on the Rocks, where students have developed the tradition of dancing on the elevated stage. This year, between 1,000 and 1,500 students are expected to attend, and upperclassmen have expressed worry about the availability of the Rocks dance space. “I think that because most juniors and seniors arrive late and freshmen come early, they (freshmen) will get the Rocks,” Homecoming Committee member and Student Body Secretary Zonya Dawson said. “Seniors won’t be happy.” The availability of space isn’t the only concern, however. The Rocks are elevated off the ground and the safety of students is also a worry. If the Rocks are too crowded, there is a chance that students could fall or be pushed off. “Everyone is just going to have to accept the fact that not everyone can dance on the Rocks anymore,” Adams said. “They are first come, first served, so arriving early will be a necessity. Any bullying of people to get them to leave the Rocks will result in removal from the dance without a refund.”
Homcoming 2009 ►Theme: Welcome to the Jungle ►When: Oct. 24, 8 p.m.-11 p.m. ►Where: Red Rox Commons ►Who: All Rocky students grades 9-12. IDs required. ►Tickets: On sale starting Oct. 12; $15 single, $25 double
sure if attending, red if been asked Lunchtime activity: Dating Game ►Wednesday: Hero vs. Villains Dress up as your favorite hero or villain Lunchtime activity: Strong Man contest ►Thursday: Animal Spirit Week: Print Day-Wear Oct. 19-23 animal print clothing ►Monday: Hawaiian Lunchtime Shirt Day-Wear activity: Dance a Hawaiian Off shirt ►Friday: Lobo Pride Lunchtime Day-Wear activity: Limbo Rocky pride ►Tuesday: Stop Light apparel Day-Wear Lunchtime green if activity: available to be Cheerleaders asked to and Band Homecoming, performance yellow if not According to Dawson and Adams, StuCo has decided to move the tables from the current Commons sitting area into the Lobo hall to keep the Commons open for dancing. Additional dance setup changes are also planned. “We have arranged for the DJ to bring extra speakers so that the larger dance floor will have plenty of sound,” Adams said. “We will have games, a scavenger hunt and the usual sitting area. We will have the concession stand open
as usual, plus Jamba Juice will be selling smoothies.” StuCo has worked to insure that Homecoming will be a safe and comfortable dance where students won’t feel too crammed. “I am really proud of all the hard work StuCo has put in so far, especially the officers,” Adams said. “The time commitment it takes to pull off Homecoming Week is unbelievable, and I hope the students of Rocky aren’t taking it for granted.”
Recycle this newspaper after reading
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Defacing property Vandalism disturbs integrity of school by TESS HALAC Center section editor
Vandalism: Everyone dreads it; no one expects it. Both students and staff members alike have recently reported several acts of vandalism, specifically in damage to their cars. One veteran Rocky teacher, who requested her name not be used, had her car keyed the week of Sept. 21-26. The scratch extended from the headlight to the taillight of the passenger side door. Pedersen Toyota estimated the cost of repairing this damage to be $1,577. Additionally, a teacher new to the school, who also asked to remain anonymous, suffered damage to his brand-new Subaru Outback on Sept. 24. He walked out to his car at about 5 p.m. to find a swastika carved across the entirety of the hood. His insurance company is currently investigating the case to see if they will pay a portion of the damage. Both teachers chose to remain unnamed out of fear. “I think a part of our fear is that we don’t want to be targeted again,” the veteran teacher said. “Teachers don’t make a lot of money, and that kind of money needs to be spent on food and insurance.” Rocky is thus far claiming no liability and not reimbursing the teachers for the cost of repairing their vehicles.
Colten Sanders
“By signing the white card (to get a parking permit), you are here on your own liability,” Human Relations Liaison Jim Gjerde said. Gjerde also said that while it appears vandalism numbers are on the rise, they are actually down from last year. “It’s hard for the staff to understand, but it’s something that students have dealt with for a long time,” Gjerde said. “They also don’t understand that often times it is a mistake; sometimes people will walk between cars and the backpack strap will get caught and make a scratch.” While the veteran teacher is not upset with the school for not paying damages, she did say that she wished they could find the perpetrator. “The school didn’t do this to me, a kid did,” the veteran teacher said. “I would like them to find the kid so they can fix the problem.” This teacher is also fighting for the issue to be addressed school-wide. “I just don’t think kids get the effects of their actions,” the veteran teacher said. They think it’s fun, or funny, but now we’re financially responsible for others’ criminal actions.”
Colten Sanders
Caught: An unidentified youth (sitting) is watched by campus security officer Larry Yardley after he was allegedly caught breaking into senior Zac Chuvala’s (top left) car. Multiple accounts of vandalism have occurred this year in the parking lots.
However, Gjerde said that finding the guilty persons is nearly an impossible task. “In any environment, there is malice,” Gjerde said. “By getting cameras, we will be able to see the crime being committed, but we won’t be able to see faces.” However, with the severity of the crimes that transpired, serious legal action could take place if a perpetrator is found. If the damage exceeds $1,000, it is considered a felony. The people involved would be ordered to pay restitution, or the cost of the damage, as well as face possible jail time.
If the dollar amount is under $1,000, it would be a misdemeanor, which is a mandatory court appearance and restitution. While a major part of the punishment depends on the perpetrator’s age and previous criminal history, it is almost certain that at least a ticket would be issued. So far, three staff members and one student have reported having their cars keyed. Anyone with information concerning vandalism that took place at Rocky is urged to come forward to either Gjerde or School Resource Officer Mark Larkin.
School sees increase in fights for first term by MARY WILLSON Reporter
A dirty look is all it takes. This year has brought many changes throughout the school—some positive and some negative. There have been seven examples of that negative change. There have been seven student fights this year alone. How does that number compare to last year? Last year there were only two fights all school year, according to Jim Gjerde, human relations liaison. That is five more fights in the first few months of school than the entire school year last year.
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In high school, it’s not appropriate to handle problems in a physical manner. In high school you are adults, and adults don’t handle problems that way. Jim Gjerde, human relations liaison
The controversies are not gang or drug related. A mere look is all it takes to start a fight. “Mad dog stares; body language is all it takes.” Mark Larkin, the school’s resource officer said. “Two people may have issues with each other, which leads to a mad dog stare, which leads to inappropriate gestures, which leads to
verbal, which leads to physical.” Walking down the halls at any school, one can witness this cycle. Yet, why has it occurred so many times this year compared to the last? Increased student population may be the reason. “We have 800 new students, and anytime you increase your numbers, and put them in a
stressful situation, there is bound to be conflicts,” Gjerde said. Not only is the student population larger, but the students don’t know each other and aren’t aware of the school expectations. “Going into the year, half knows what the Lobo Way is, and half doesn’t,” Gjerde said. “In high school, it’s not appropriate to handle problems in a physical manner. In high school you are adults, and adults don’t handle problems in that way.” However, the problem might be decreasing, according to Gjerde. There has not been a fight in three to four weeks. Students are beginning to get to know each
other, and the problems have minimized. “My opinion is fighting doesn’t resolve issues,” Larkin said. Physical fighting ends in suspension from school and a ticket from the city. “There is a culture of if you tell on somebody, you are ratting them out. Here is the reality – if this person is your friend, friends protect each other. So my opinion is the code of ratting each other out is not effective,” Larkin said. “There are a lot of resources if they choose to use them.” What should students know about fighting? “It’s not worth it,” Larkin said.
Students disappear for 13 days, cause school concern by SHELBY BROWN Online editor
On Sept. 18, Killian Seerley went missing. Seerley’s sister, senior Ashley Trent, posted signs all around the school, asking if anyone had any information on Seerley’s disappearance. For 13 days, Trent said she and her family worried and stressed about where Seerley could possibly be. “We were all really scared,” Trent said. “Nobody had been sleeping, especially my mom.” On Sept. 30, Trent was pulled out of third period and told that her brother had been found. A Colorado Springs police officer had notified Seerley’s family that he was in Colorado Springs. Seerley and friend Matt Chadwick, both freshmen, took
bikes to Denver and then a cab to Colorado Springs. “His friend felt like leaving town, and they wanted to try it,” said Trent. “Killian didn’t believe his friend was serious, so they wanted to see if they could do it.” Trent said that their parents
are divorcing, and it’s taking a toll on the whole family. Trent said she believes her brother leaving was kind of his way of dealing with the situation. Seerley had turned himself in to a school resource officer at a nearby high school after he and Chadwick separated following a
fight between them. Chadwick later ended up at his mom’s house in Colorado Springs and is now in a juvenile detention
center. “Everything is fine now,” Trent said. “It’s all relaxed and back to how it was before.”
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October 15, 2009
Have no fear; Principal Tom Lopez is here
Staff Editorial ►Despite the stress that came with the Brad Boda situation and the bomb threat, Principal Tom Lopez proved himself a worthy leader of our school.
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our principal is your pal. Everyday, elementary students struggle to learn this concept to help them with their spelling of the word, and just as often, older students struggle with the same concept as they learn to formulate their own opinions towards decisions made concerning their school and district. However, it seems that the last few weeks, our pal Tom Lopez has definitely had Rocky’s back, like a true friend should. Needless to say, the week of Sept. 21 may have made up the roughest five days of school that Rocky has ever seen. Between the arrest of former counselor Brad Boda, and a called-in bomb threat to put the cherry on top, there were roughly 2,200 students who were in need of guidance, support and reassurance, and Mr. Lopez couldn’t have done a better job of helping each and every one. On Thursday the 24th, a day where student optimism seemed to have reached an all-time low and the halls of our school matched the gloominess of the rainy weather outside, Lopez was ready with an announcement during first period, and mental health counselors waiting in Student Services. The following day, just minutes before lunch, Lopez made another announcement concerning a Code 99 situation as a result of a bomb threat. Though Lopez was already under immense stress, he kept his composure and provided clear and consistent instructions to help
High Hopes Colton Klemperer
National Parks series revives human spirit
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both students and staff deal with the situation. Lopez was equally efficient in his replacement of Boda. Within a week, he was not only able to provide Boda’s students with a new counselor, but also with a friendly face from within the building to help make a smooth and comfortable transition. As principal, it is Lopez’s job to stay in control and stay strong when dealing with difficult situations and decisions, as well as the scrutiny that is sure to follow. Lopez has done just that with every challenge he has faced this past month, helping all Lobos keep their heads held high. He has been quick to
or those who are truly fascinated by the natural world around them and want to preserve every aspect of it for all to enjoy, national parks are a beacon of hope. In our modern world, many have lost touch with the wild spirit that resides in all of us. Our lives are largely confined to asphalt city streets where the most prevalent reminder of nature is simply the weather we experience outside of our airconditioned homes. We live in almost complete control of our own environment. However, there are places on earth that will always remain free of human disturbance. The national parks that have been established in the U.S. from Florida to Alaska continue to draw millions of visitors every year; people who wish to escape the toil of everyday life and rediscover what this world really has to offer.
act, confident in his leadership and understanding to students in need. However, most importantly, he has done all of this while keeping students informed of every situation. In times of panic, confusion and gossip—often dangerous variables—Lopez was able to keep Rocky conversant of the truth, maintaining the focus and serenity of the student body. With a quarter of school in the books, and a large remainder of the year left to go, Lopez still has plenty of work ahead of him. But given his leadership abilities so far, Rocky should feel confident in calling this principal our pal.
On Sept. 27, PBS unveiled part one of National Parks: America’s Best Idea, a documentary on the U.S. national parks from acclaimed director and producer Ken Burns. The 11 1/2 hour long documentary focuses on the history of how the parks came to be, along with their ability to continue drawing so many visitors after so many years. Stories are uncovered that capture the personalities it took to make the park system a success, from the political power of Theodore Roosevelt to the incredible passion of Adolph Murie. The series reveals the tremendous joint efforts over time to preserve these areas. The film, which is now available on DVD (and will likely be re-broadcast on PBS many more times), shows a part of America that we really should be known for: our country’s finest treasures.
We aren’t the nation of dim celebrities, fast food, Monday Night Football and spoiled teenagers; we are a nation of endless beauty from our high peaks to our rugged deserts. Unfortunately, no movie can display this splendor in all its magnificence. Anyone who has ever peered down a cliff in the Grand Canyon or watched a geyser explode right before their eyes in Yellowstone knows that these are experiences that will never be enjoyed to their full potential on a TV screen. You just have to be there. The decades and decades of conservational efforts to preserve these areas have not gone unnoticed and our generation must promise to continue these efforts for many years to come. Our very sanity depends on it. Colton Klemperer is a senior and co-editor-in-chief of the Highlighter.
The Rocky Mountain Highlighter is a student news publication which strives to report school and 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. In order to make the Highlighter as professional a publication as possible, important legal and ethical guidelines will be followed. Senate Bill 90-99, enacted by the Colorado General Assembly during the 1990 legislative session, declares that “students of the public schools shall have the right to exercise freedom of speech and the press.” (Colo. Rev. Stat. Sec. 22-1-120) We, the staff of the Highlighter, are prohibited by law from publishing certain materials. We will respect these laws. No material which is libelous, encourages illegal acts, or causes material and substantial disruption to school activities will be published. Expressions which are obscene will not be printed. Profanity will not be printed unless it is considered absolutely necessary by the Highlighter editorial board to express the views of the writer or quoted person. Expression which is false “as to any person who is not a public figure or involved in a matter of public concern” will not be printed. “Expressions which are in violation of lawful school regulations designed to control gangs” will not be printed. In the event of a potential controversial item, the editorial board --consisting of all the editors, the advertising manager, and the adviser --will meet to discuss the merits of the item and then decide whether or not to print the item. Coverage of deaths which occur within the Rocky community will be carefully considered by the editorial board. Natural or accidental deaths will be reported for clarifications of death and will contain a memorial. Except in extreme circumstances, suicides will not be covered to reduce glorification of such acts. In general, the Highlighter observes the guidelines presented in the “Code of Ethics” of the Society of Professional Journalists. The Highlighter will not allow source review prior to publication, unless there is a clarification issue. Source anonymity will be granted only after careful consideration by the editor, with the editor reserving the right to make the final decision. Staff editorials shall be presented logically and will represent the views of the majority of the staff. Editorial criticism, of either individuals or groups, will be based on fact and will be constructive. Guest editorial space, the “Open Forum,” is available to anyone in the Rocky community, including students, parents, faculty, and administrators. Anyone interested in writing in the “Open Forum” should contact the editor-in-chief or the adviser, Stephen Wahlfeldt. Letters to the editor are welcome. They should be signed, and a home phone number should be included. The writer’s name may be withheld upon request, provided the editor agrees that the reasons for withholding a name are valid and compelling. Try to limit letters to 300 words and place them in one of the “Letters to the Editor” boxes, located in the Media Center and the Main Office, or give them to a Highlighter staff member, Highlighter adviser Stephen Wahlfeldt, or drop them by the Highlighter room, Room 528, during 4th period. Letters may also be mailed to the Rocky Mountain Highlighter, Rocky Mountain High School, 1300 W. Swallow Rd., Fort Collins, CO 80526. To talk with anyone on the Highlighter staff, phone (970) 488-7090. Columnists express their own views and not necessarily those of the Highlighter staff. No expression made by students of the Rocky Mountain Highlighter shall be considered an expression of school board or Rocky Mountain High School policy. Furthermore, Poudre School District and its employees are immune from any civil or criminal action based on any expression made or published by the students. All advertisement is welcome. To place an ad, contact Highlighter advertising managers at (970) 488-7091. The Highlighter, however, reserves the right to refuse advertising which the staff considers inappropriate for our audience. The Highlighter is a member of the ASNE/MCT Campus High School Newspaper Service, and some material is courtesy of that service. The Rocky Mountain Highlighter reserves the right to edit anything it publishes.
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The Rocky Mountain Highlighter is published 10 times during the school year by the newspaper staff Rocky Mountain of Rocky Highlighter Mountain High School/ 1300 W. Swallow Rd./Fort Collins, CO 80526. Contact Rocky Mountain Highlighter staff members at 970-488-7090 or 970-488-7091 for advertising information. Also the Rocky Mountain Highlighter staff is in the Highlighter room, Room 528, during 4th period. Co-editor-in-chief Colton Klemperer Greg Lewis Viewpoint Editor Taylor Wright Sports Editor Austin Adams Features Editor Elaina Trousil Center Editor Tess Halac Limelight Editor Michael Hoppal Online Editor Shelby Brown
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October 15, 2009
Viewpoint
Let me see your cheer constitution; what’s that you say? Standards necessary Pro Standards too strict Con
According to the Rocky Mountain High School Cheer Constitution, the cheerleading team is to provide “leadership for the student body, promote and assert school spirit, develop a respectable character, foster personal growth by teaching responsibility, dependability, cooperation, discipline and maintaining high standards.” This is why cheerleaders are held to a higher standard; not because they are better than anyone at school, but because they have promised to be leaders and to show mature behavior in and out of school. Many students are questioning whether or not it is ethical for the coach and the school to tell the cheerleaders what they can and cannot do. The student athletes, who have committed to the responsibilities of being a cheerleader, must follow the rules provided or pick another activity that better suits their personal needs. “We are the image of the school and we are responsible for our image,” senior and current cheerleader Brandon Castaneda said. “If we were to smoke in uniform, what would people think?” Simple requirements that go along with being a cheerleader include being “responsible for the cost of uniforms, camp, camp wear, and any other items he or she will keep,” to being dismissed from the squad for “unbecoming conduct.” This includes the use of alcohol, drugs, profane language, being disrespectful to adults, being jailed or “exhibiting inappropriate behavior while wearing a school uniform or while on school grounds, which includes anything more than holding hands with a significant other.” “We are considered role models,” junior and current cheerleader Grace Sanders said. “We have to be a good representation.” Most students agree that when participating in clubs, sports or school activities, they should behave well. As teenagers, however, many find it difficult to display proper behavior outside of the club realm. According to Sanders, two girls last season were dismissed from the squad due to their inability to follow the rules set by the coach in the constitution that was signed early on in the season. If one cannot comply with the rules of his or her activity, one should find an alternate activity that better fits his or her needs. If a participant cannot afford the cost of his or her uniform or training, he or she needs to step down from his or her position on the team. It is not the coach or sponsor’s job to tailor the rules to fit the needs of each student; it is the student’s job to tailor themselves to adhere to the rules.
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We are considered role models. We have to be a good representation. Grace Sanders, junior
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It got to the point where a lot of cheerleaders didn’t want to go to practice. Stephanie Smeltz, junior
What constitutes too far? In the cheer world, nothing. The cheerleaders that line the field at football games, the sidelines at basketball games and the floor at assemblies are held to very different standards than anyone else in the school. They are considered role models around our halls and in our community, especially when they are sporting the cardinal and gold uniform. All athletes have rules to follow and a positive behavior to maintain. When you enter a sport, you are agreeing to live up to the higher standard that you are expected to maintain. But does cheerleading take it too far? According to the Rocky Mountain High School Cheer Constitution, “Cheerleaders should act in a respectful manner at all times to parents, teachers, athletes and students while in uniform or out of uniform. Use of drugs, alcohol, profane language, stealing, fighting, disrespect to adults, or exhibiting inappropriate behavior while in uniform or on school grounds, this includes anything more than holding hands with a significant other.” “I think that they are really too strict for high school because it is an extracurricular activity,” former cheerleader and junior Stephanie Smeltz said All RMHS athletes are held to a higher standard. They are considered leaders of the school and are expected to follow the rules that go along with being a part of that sport. However, the rules of the cheer team are too strict for a high school setting. “It got to the point where a lot of the cheerleaders didn’t want to go to practice,” Smeltz said. “Unless it’s a career or in college, it should be fun and not be so strict. We should be able to have fun with it.” Nail polish is not allowed. All girls must have their hair up and out of their faces. Every member of the team must match completely. All bows must be matching. If one girl is wearing glitter, all the girls must wear glitter. Showing more affection than holding hands with a significant other while in uniform is not allowed. Cheerleading comes before any job or other extracurricular activity. Former cheerleader, Lizzie Mangum, felt like she was unable to express her individuality while on the cheer team. “I think you should be able to be your own person,” Mangum said.
Zonya Dawson
RM Verbatim How do you think Rocky handled the recent challenges in regards to the Boda situation and the bomb threat?
Taylor Made Taylor Wright
Seeing life through the eyes of a child
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“As expected, we handled it really well. There are few schools that could face such adversity and still come out of it the way we did.” Doug Cole, teacher
f only we could all see the world through the eyes of a child once again. The family pop-up trailer magically transforms into a faraway castle, the next door neighbor’s dog becomes a menacing alien, the clusters of lights at a car dealership are mistaken for New York City and your mother’s spandex from the ’80s turns into the quintessential Power Ranger costume. Once children reach a certain age, of course, these fantasy ideas are bound to perish. The magic comes to a crashing halt, all in one instant. For some, it was the day they visited the mall and realized Santa Claus wasn’t real. Now how, they may have wondered, is it physically possible for Santa to be outside of the mall collecting change, inside of the mall
Mary Willson
“The school didn’t really cover what happened and some rumors got out of control.” Laura Lindberg, sophomore
“I think we handled it really well. The administrators did a professional job of keeping everyone under control.” Rodney HoefsHunter, senior
sitting with children on his lap and smoking a cigarette with the elves during his break all at the same time? For others, it may have been the day they watched the behind-the-scenes portion of The Wizard of Oz and discovered that Dorothy really wasn’t somewhere over the rainbow, but rather in a studio in Los Angeles. And as for her companions on her journey to Emerald City? The original Tin Man died due to the toxicity of the silver body paint, the Wicked Witch was severely burned during the shooting of the film and half of the munchkins in Munchkinland were actually just small children. I suppose these realizations, however painful they may be, are necessary. Imagine if your dentist, for instance, paraded through
“Rather well; everyone was calm and I’ve been impressed.” Shayla Peel, junior
“I don’t think they handled the bomb threat too well, but the Boda situation was taken care of.” Ben Spoliansky, freshman
the streets with a broom between his or her legs, pretending to be Harry Potter. Better yet, think if your own principal, Mr. Lopez, dressed up as Yoda during, let’s say, a school assembly. These incidences would be disturbing and rather scarring for us all. The transition from childhood fantasies to adulthood realities is harsh, but to ease the severity, it is possible to maintain an air of childhood innocence and naivety. I know that I, for one, still watch Disney movies, color in coloring books and jump in piles of leaves. Because the world has become so fast-paced and stressful, it is always a relief to look at the world through a child’s eyes once again, even if only for a moment. Taylor Wright is a junior and the Viewpoint Editor of the RM Highlighter.
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October 15, 2009
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Boda situation divides students Letters to the Editor Support member of the Lobo pack Dear Editor, Brad Boda’s arrest caused various reactions within the school. Students and staff at Rocky who knew him felt hurt, confused, surprised and betrayed, but many still supported him. Many people who didn’t know him still felt the need to stand behind a fellow member of Rocky. I think this group best exemplifies what the Lobo Way is. The Lobo Way is not something that can be taught in a classroom. It is a trait, a way of life. When a member of “the pack” falls down, other members need to be there to support. As a school, we need to stand behind Boda, even if what he is accused of doing is not right. Don’t let his alleged mistakes outshine what he did in the Rocky community. He supported many individuals in their tough times so why can’t we return the favor? I understand a lot of people have never had the opportunity to meet him or talk with him, but he has made an impact on those he had a chance to interact with. Many underclassmen haven’t had the opportunity to meet him. Don’t judge him by what he is accused of, instead, ask a fellow member at Rocky about the impact he had on them. During the days following his arrest I heard jokes by many underclassmen about getting molested by Boda. I was shocked when I heard a freshman make up a graphic story about his experience with Boda in the bedroom. Shock turned into anger when I heard his friends laugh and add on to his story. Obviously some students don’t quite have the mental capacity to grasp the concept of what being
Hearing: Suspended counselor Brad Boda (center) walks to the Boulder County Jail for his advisement hearing on Oct. 2 for allegations of sexual assault on minors. The hearing was rescheduled for Nov. 2 to give additional time for possible other victims to come forward.
a Lobo is about. If you want to make jokes about getting molested, transfer to FCHS; you will fit in. This is still a very sore subject so I would advise everyone to stay away from jokes about Boda because many students and staff take them personally. Nick Whittenberg, junior
Boda situation creates unsafe environment Dear Editor, I feel like I stand alone on my side of the argument about Boda. I didn’t expect Rocky students to react the way they did. I guess I was ignorant to the fact that people would have different views on this argument. It is very controversial and definitely not a comfortable topic to discuss or argue about. There are so many emotional reactions to this tragic event. I feel very mad, upset, betrayed and completely irritated by this situation. Rocky is supposed to protect its students. We are the reason Rocky exists. I think we’re pretty important; there are 2,100 students attending this school. You would think that there had to have been some way to prevent something this traumatic from happening at such a large and important school. It confuses me to hear how a year long police investigation had been going on, yet Boda was rehired this year. How could this have happened? Somebody had to have been notified that this investigation had been going on. If Mr. Lopez was notified that there was in fact an investigation going on, he should have given Boda a leave of absence with pay until the investigation was completed. This way, he wouldn’t be near 2,100 students every day. This would have been the responsible
Allie Daniels
thing to do for the safety of our school. If they had done this, this thing wouldn’t have exploded the way it did. I know that these are just allegations so far, but it is still so scary and tough to even think about. I understand the argument that the Boda we know at Rocky Mountain is not who these allegations say he is. The Boda we know is great with kids, trustworthy and a positive and professional worker. The question for me is do we actually know who Brad Boda is? Did anybody expect that he would be accused of this? I didn’t know him, but from what I hear nobody would expect this. I surely wouldn’t expect for any kind of situation like this to come up at school. Now, I feel unsafe. This situation has made me lose trust in other faculty members and made me feel dependent on only myself. People have been defending Boda, and I understand that people don’t want to believe it and feel the need to defend it. That’s fine, but don’t you think even the fact that he was accused of this is sick and hard to defend? There was a one-year investiga-
tion! I would never defend this man, if true, what he has been accused of, has probably ruined the lives of others. To me, the great work he did at Rocky is invalidated by what he has been accused of doing outside of school. Some may say I’m overreacting, but my life has been affected by what I’ve heard about this situation. This whole thing has greatly saddened me and frightened me. I hope that those Rocky students who have been harmed by this tragedy can get the support they seek during this difficult time. Beth Benn, sophomore
Boda initial reason for liking Rocky Dear Editor, When the counselor assigned to help me with my classes, grades and college courses was arrested, I was as surprised as anyone else. Last year, the counselors came to my school to talk about Rocky. They answered tons of questions for us, and it was very helpful. My counselor was Mr. Boda, and I liked him. He was funny and really nice that day. I had a good feeling about
Bomb threat
Hessel article portrays speaker inaccurately Dear Editor, I recently read your article entitled, “Speaker sparks cultural controversy” and was disappointed in the Highlighter. The way in which Del Hessel is portrayed is highly libel and taken out of context. I have known Del for the better part of seven years and am proud to be coached by him. And I can tell you he is not racist, does not have an ounce of racism in him, and has a Hispanic son. He has been committed to helping studentathletes succeed for many years and has poured himself into so many young lives, never discriminating or denying an athlete on race. I understand your need to publish juicy and interesting stories, but not at the expense of the truth. This article has rendered my support for this newspaper void, and I hope you state the facts and nothing but the facts next time rather than looking for what suits you and twisting it to stir up controversy. Freedom of speech is a privilege and you give journalism a bad name with stories such as these. Please consider how stories like this will affect a person’s life and at what expense you publish yellow journalism. Joel Max, senior
him. Just like everyone else, I trusted him. In fact, I liked Rocky because of him. As soon as I heard the news, I took an immediate no-sides standing. I don’t want to say that there’s no way Boda would do this because I’ve only talked to him two or three times. I don’t want to instantly believe that he is guilty either. It’s not fair to him that we assume he’s a criminal. I’m just glad that students who knew him better have a place to go and talk about it. For some people, this is really emotional. Some people were pretty close to him. My view of Rocky hasn’t changed. I know how surprising it is to find out that someone you trust could have committed some bad crimes, and I also know that no one had any idea. If Boda really is guilty, the fault is to him, not Rocky. Sure, maybe he’s the reason that I liked the school in the first place, but now I have more reasons. Rocky really is as good as people say it is, maybe better. I love it here, and guilty counselor or not, this is going to be an awesome four years. Go Lobos! Hannah Eccher, freshman
Principal stifles freedom of speech
Colten Sanders
Colten Sanders
Bomb threat: During the bomb threat on Sept. 25, security guards line the school premises while parents wait anxiously outside. The school went into a Code 99 lockdown, but nothing was found by authorities.
Dear Editor, I would first like to thank the administrators, staff and students for handling the Code 99 emergency in an orderly manner. But some of the words spoken by Principal Tom Lopez really bothered me. In Mr. Lopez’s final address to the school over the intercom after the area was secured, he told students not to speak to the press waiting outside the school. In doing this, Mr. Lopez was discouraging our first amendment right to freedom of speech. Sure, he didn’t physically stop or prohibit students from talking to the press, but scared the students unaware of the most important right into waiving it out of fear of getting in trouble. Although Mr. Lopez wasn’t breaking any laws, I didn’t like that he told me not to exercise the right to free expression in a peaceful way. I’m sure Mr. Lopez had good reason to attempt to hush my fellow students and I, but in my opinion, that just wasn’t right. I would like to say thanks but no thanks to Mr. Lopez for encouraging students to censor and hide their opinions and thoughts from the media. I’d be afraid that expressing my opinion in this letter to the editor would get me in trouble with Rocky’s administration, but it’s my first amendment right to do so. I advise my fellow students to never ever give up that right, regardless of what an authority figure tells you. Otherwise, the future of our free nation is doomed. Oliver Mueller, senior
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October 15, 2009
Sports
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Softball team misses regional playoffs by TREVOR MERRILL reporter
Being a young team, the softball team was not able to obtain a spot into regionals, leaving the season done and players disappointed. “It’s a little disappointing,” senior third baseman Danielle Summers said. “My freshman, sophomore and junior year we went to state every year, and (senior year) not even making it to regionals.” Even though the team tied for sixth in the Front Range League at 5-6 with Fairview and Mountain Range high schools, only Mountain Range earned a bid into the 32-team regional bracket among the tied teams. “I think we did really well for as young of a team as we are,” junior second baseman Stacey Ewan said. “We improved a ton from start to finish. We had a fun season, but it would have been a lot more fun to keep going.” Finishing the season with an overall record of 7-13, the team fought hard after starting off the season 1-6. The Lobos’ 6-7 record down the stretch included victories over the two teams it tied with in confer-
Boys’ Soccer HighPoints ►Record: 8-1-2 ►Hot: Beat third-ranked team in state, Fairview H.S., 1-0. ►Cold: Lost to city rival Poudre, 2-1. ►Outlook: With playoffs starting Oct. 27 the team expects a high seed and a low seeded team to face in the first round.
Westra from page A12
makes everyone think we have a chance to win every night.” He has carried that over as he made the state team and even took it a step further and made the regional team. For the regional team you have to be selected. In Westra’s case he was selected after attending a camp. He is the only one from Colorado on that regional team. “It’s not that he is so talented, it’s the grace he carries his talent with,” coach Daniel Ibanez said. “He knows his limitations and understands the game of soccer.” Westra has been scouted and pressured by various colleges. New Mexico, Denver University, Stanford, San Diego, and Saint Mary’s are just some of the colleges that have talked to Westra about playing at the next level. Ibanez thinks that he could be successful at the next level. “He has a level head he wouldn’t go into it with starry eyes,” said Ibanez. “He has a great GPA and good grades and he has a bigger vision then just soccer.” Yet Westra is not looking too far forward ahead and is focused on the task at hand, to finish his senior season. The soccer team is currently 8-1-2 and is fourth in the Front Range Conference. He has five assists and four goals. “We hope to do well in conference and make it to state,” Westra said. “Yet our goals always included having fun and beating our city rivals.”
Safe: Junior Stacie Ewan slides safely into third base against Legacy High School, the No. 1-ranked team in the state. Even though she was safe, Legacy won the game, 7-1.
Girls Softball HighPoints ►Record: 7-12 ►Hot: Won three games in a row in a span of a week. ►Cold: Lost four out of the last five games, missed the playoffs ►Outlook: With most of the players returning for next season, the softball team will improve. ence play as well as over regional qualifier Northglenn High School, which finished tied for fourth in the league. “Some of our games we should have won; a hit here and there could have won us a game,” Summers said. “It’s a little disappointing.” Even though the finish saddened players, they still stood strong as a team and are positively looking at the future as nine underclassmen return, including freshman Emily Burns, sophomore Briana Van
Mary Willson
Sickle and Ewan, who all hit over .300. Additionally, pitcher Katherine Rosecrance, a sophomore, will be back. “We grew as a team and every week we made improvements,” Ewan said. “Next year will be a lot better because we
will have a lot of the same people.” “We’ve had our ups and downs this year,” coach Mike Crockett said. “We are a young team and building for the future. We lost some big games, but the girls stayed positive.”
Ski season brings excitement to snow lovers Some ski areas already open as state gets early taste of cold weather by HUNTER RICHMOND reporter
The new skiing and boarding season is here, already, and the slopes are piling up with snow, real and artificial. This season for riders and skiers looks just as big as last, with a mid to late October opening for many resorts, and around 12 million skier visits expected through the season. According to weather patterns, the first good powder days look to be at the end of October to the start of November. In fact, Loveland Ski Area paced North America when it opened for the season on Oct. 7 followed shortly after by Arapahoe Basin. So which resorts are the best to head up on the first possible day of fresh powder? All it depends on what one would be looking for, how far up on the mountain the resort is, or how much snow is needed to actually ride on. Most students usually go for Copper Mountain and Winter Park/Mary Jane as a good balance between distance from Fort Collins and good powder. Mary Jane is usually over looked by family skiers and new riders, mostly because of its difficultly, so it can be an
awesome reason to go up to the Winter Park area and not wait in a lift line all day. With mostly medium to advanced runs, an average rider or skier will have a ton of fun on these slopes. Copper is another popular choice when the season starts. Although it doesn’t have the same family feel as Winter Park, it makes up for that in awesome slopes and good powder. Ryan Ellis is a senior and he plans on going up at least 25 times this year. His favorite place to ski is Winter Park and Mary Jane. Ellis plans on heading up the first day there’s good powder. “I’m super pumped for the season to start. It’s going to be awesome,” Ellis said. “The best way to board, for me, is with my friends.” Choosing a season pass depends on which ski areas one targets. One would be going to the most with a $65 lift ticket skiers and riders who go up often usually take the pass. Season Passes for Winter Park/Mary Jane and Copper Mountain combined is $399 for 18+ years and $309 for 13-17. For Breckenridge, Keystone or Arapahoe Basin, the pass to get is the Teen Summit Pass (13-18) only $309 for full access to all three resorts.
Highlighter archive
Riding the slopes: Senior Travis Homn and junior Theo Kuck ride the slopes last skiing season. The ski seson has opened early this year because of early snow.
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October 15, 2009
Sports
Cross country teams running strong, primed for state by TESS HALAC Center editor
With hard work comes great achievement. Both the girls and boys cross country teams have started out with a bang, with top finishes in most of their meets. The boys won the city title Sept. 25 and aren’t backing down for a minute. “Our goal is to win the rest of the regular season meets and place top five at state,” said senior Ben Larson, Rocky’s number one male runner. That’s not to say this goal won’t come without challenges. Upcoming tough matches include Loveland, Cherry Creek, and Regis. Larson however remains confident that this is definitely within reach. “When we run against these good teams, we try and match up man-toman and mentally fight through all three miles,” Larson said. “All our guys are really invested in the team right now; our top seven has never trained for this long or this hard.” In addition to facing these tough schools, the team has also faced multiple injuries and illnesses. Larson himself has been out three weeks with a foot injury and now is battling strep throat. Luckily, Larson is able to lean on his teammates for support. “I think this is the closest the team has ever been as friends,” Larson said. Senior Lizzy Shilling, one of the key leaders for girls cross country, agrees that it’s a similar environment for her team as
Keeping pace: Varsity cross country runner Scott Thornton has a good stride during the Mountain View invite on Oct. 3. The boys’ team is sending several runners to regionals which is on Oct. 23.
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All our guys are really invested in the team right now. Our top seven has never trained for this long or this hard. Ben Larson, junior runner
well. “We’ve spent a lot of time together running and doing a lot of team dinners and a camp over the summer,” Shilling said. Shilling also shares Larson’s goal to be top five in state, and is additionally striving for even more team togetherness. “I want our girls to be proud of our teammates and encourage each other, because that’s how we do well,” Shilling said. Shilling has high hopes for the rest of the season, but knows that the region Rocky is in is one of the toughest in state. Rather than shying away, the girls team has so far banded together and accepted the challenge of tougher competition. “I think running is more of a team sport more than other sports because there’s a point when you’re running you think to yourself ‘I could give up now, just quit, and make the pain go away,’” Shilling said. “But then you remember that all your teammates are going through the same pain as you, for you.”
Taylor Wright
by CONNER DRAKE reporter
Michael Hoppal
Patrolling the field: Coach Tom Smailes walks off the field after a win against Grand Junction Central High School on Sept. 26. Smailes has returned to coaching after being away from it for five years.
Smailes said. “Coaching football is a big part of my existence. You get a greater appreciation for something when you don’t have it anymore.” He also enjoys the aspect of getting to know kids outside of
Cross Country HighPoints
►Record: Most recent invite the girls team finished second ►Hot: Boys Second place finish at the John Martin invite. ►Cold: Lots of injuries this year on varsity. ►Outlook: Boys runners that are projected on going to state are Ben Larson, Jeff Randall, Andy Jones, Roy Quanstrom, Ryan Donner, Lucas Ness and Jake Summerall. Girls runners are Bri Cathcart, Lizzy Shilling, Ari Monroe, Shayla Peel, Geneva Mueller, Addy Rastall, Shelby Mathis and Cambria Magnuson.
Former head football coach back on field after timeout For 26 years, Tom Smailes had been coaching on the gridiron. Nine of those years were as the Lobos’ head coach, where he hung up his whistle after the 2004 season and a 44-47 record. “I had continuously coached for 26 years,” Smailes said. “There is always a certain burnout factor where you reach a phase where you want to do different things.” But now, the old football coach is back—on the sidelines again as a volunteer assistant under head coach Mark Brook, who served as Smailes’ assistant for many years. When Smailes was the head coach, he also coached the quarterbacks. His new role on the coaching staff is working with the defensive line. He is only on the field for two practices a week and game days. He also has his own independent film breakdown. The players seem to have responded positively to Smailes’ return. “We are glad to have him back,” said senior lineman Troy Armstead, one of the team’s captains. “He adds a lot to the team and helps keep morale up.” Smailes said he returned to the game primarily because he missed it. Being away from the game so long was strange to him. “There was a gap in my life,”
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the classroom. He said he believes that another side of a person can be seen through athletics and outof-the-classroom experiences. “As an educator, I enjoy both inside and outside the classroom experiences,” said Smailes, who is the language arts department leader. “There is an opportunity to get to know people a different way through athletics.” “I’m glad to have Smailes on the team,” senior lineman Dillon McNamee said. “He has a lot of knowledge and experience of the sport.” Smailes limited coaching allows him to play a part but also focus on other aspects of his life, such as teaching and raising a family, which includes two teenage children who attend Rocky and a 1-year-old. When he was head coach he would put in 80 hour weeks. “It’s a very workable situation,” Smailes said about his now part-time position. Brook said it was easy to welcome Smailes back into the coaching fold, even though the roles of head coach and assistant are now reversed. “He always wanted to come back and coach,” Brook said. “We talked and made it happen.” “It’s not a real big deal,” Brook said. “We’re just coaching kids like we used to, and it’s working out real well.”
Campbell from page A12
enthusiastic and charismatic student with skills as a leader and amazing inner strength, and I believe he has amazing potential.” The teachers gave the first push and with the help of his teammates, Campbell was able to succeed and become a part of the bigger picture. “As I started changing who I was,” Campbell said, “I was able to connect with the other teammates and I began to realize how to do things the right way.” The work was mostly that of Campbell but he extends his full gratitude to all those that have helped him succeed. “I had constant talks with his mom and his coaches,” Ruberry said. “I turned his energy in a positive direction through encouragement and constant kicks in the butt.” Campbell is in an American Government class with Tom List and they are asked to do a civil action project. This project asks students to get involved with the community of Rocky. When Campbell brainstormed with Ruberry about what he could do to help out, she mentioned that he could help some students with tutoring during Wednesday mornings. A twinkle came into his eye and he stated that it was something that he could definitely do. He has been going to all of the tutoring sessions hoping to help freshmen and not allow them to fall to where he
Austin Adams
Eyeing the backfield: Linebacker Kurtis Campbell lines up during a play against Grand Junction Central High School. Campbell has used football to help his character.
did. Campbell has inspired many of his friends off the field and is a leader of the team and an inspiration on the field. “Kurtis has always been vocal,” Liufau said. “He used to think that that was leadership. Now he is more aware of how he models leadership. He is one of our harder workers because he is selflessly committed and responsible. Kurtis has learned to walk the walk.”
Football HighPoints ►Record: 4-2 overall; 3-2 FRL ►Hot: Won 3 in a row ►Cold: 0-2 vs. top teams in conference ►Outlook: Matchup with unbeaten Collins on Oct. 30 could be key to postseason
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October 15, 2009
Sports
Volleyball team finds niche, looks strong heading into the postseason by MARY WILLSON reporter
Not only does the girl’s volleyball team have a new coach, they have a new found heart and soul. Glenn Gainley is leading the girls’ volleyball team this season. Gainley is replacing Jay Dukart who coached the team for one season. Not only is he the girls volleyball coach, but he is a science teacher and has a history of coaching the team. “Gainley is a really good coach,” senior Laine Asbury said. “So the team has really come together.” The team started out slow, yet throughout the last few games they have really picked up their game and are now sitting at a record of 7-6. A huge momentum change was after the girls team came back from a two set deficit to beat Fossil Ridge three sets to two. After the game was over the girls ran outside the Fossil Ridge gym and ripped apart a sign that said, “Collins, check... Poudre... check, Rocky... check.”
Wolfe
Volleyball HighPoints ►Record: 7-6 overall; 3-4 conference. ►Hot: Won 3 in a row, including a come from behind five set thriller against Fossil Ridge. ►Cold: Started 1-4 including some key conference losses. ►Outlook: Matchup against Collins on Oct. 20. Redemption is key after loss to them on Sept. 8. Zonya Dawson
Making the reads: Senior Brooke Fenwick (left), Ameila Morgan (middle), and senior Hannah Ney (right) call out how many hitters are on the other side of the net. The girls won this game against Legacy in four sets.
“The season is going about how I thought, there is a learning curve, and we had to climb over the first half,” Gainley said. The girls had a volleyball tournament at Cherry Creek earlier this month, which was a real turning point for the team.
“We really found our heart as a team,” Asbury said. “We have a new group of girls who are all different, yet similar in the way we work together.” A large portion of the team is sophomores, yet that’s not stopping the girls.
Bond
from page A12 “Every weekend me, my brother and my dad work on the car,” said Wolfe. “It is a family project. We value the car.” Wolfe got the car three years ago for around $7000 and has been taking care of it since and has put in $3000 into it on average every year. This includes changing the tires, replacing the wing and other small things. “Front tires are $90 and rear tires are $110,” said Wolfe. Although they put a lot of work into the car it is just for making sure everything is good to go. They can’t build up the car to go any faster because there are rules in the division that prohibit it; every car has the same make up. “It is like a standard car—we check the oil, the gas and other fun stuff,” said Wolfe. “It is not all expensive parts; it is just parts thrown together to race.” Taking care of the car and attending races has become part of the Wolfe’s family and they enjoy it greatly. “I look up to my older brother as a role model,” said younger brother Shane Wolfe. “We spend about four to five hours on the car every weekend we are closer, we bond.”
have learned to work together. “I know it sounds cliché, but we found our heart and soul as a team which has really helped us play,” Asbury said. The Lobos now look to districts, scheduled for Oct. 31 at sites to be determined.
Boys’ Tennis HighPoints
from page A12 $50 per car. “I am not in the races for the money,” Wolfe said. “I am in the races for just that, to race.” As to Wolfe’s racing style, he claims that some might label him as an aggressive driver but he says that he is just fearless, not necessarily aggressive. Jerry Hargrapes is the track runner at Big Country Speedway in Cheyenne, Wyoming, and he is familiar with Wolfe’s racing style. “Jacob is a very good agressive driver,” Hargrapes said. “He can really weave his way through other drivers to win races.”
“We have a lot of young talent, and experienced sophomores, which will definitely help our team in future years,” Gainley said. The team has hopes for more positive improvement throughout the season, now that the girls
Trevor Merrill
Chasing it down: Senior Aubrey Hasvold runs after the ball during a game against Colorado Academy. The team has posted a 5-5 record this season
►Record: 5-4 ►Hot: Took first place in the Greeley Central invite. ►Cold: Lost in regionals to teams they had beat earlier in the season. ►Outlook: Alex Creech, John Behm, Eric Schiller, and Casey MacMaster qualify for the state tournament and expect to do well.
Girls’ Field Hockey HighPoints ►Record: 5-5 ►Hot: Beat Colorado Academy and Smokey Hill, teams that they had problems with in the past. ►Cold: New JV players are completely new to the game and are still learning. ►Outlook: With strong play from of fensive midfielders Meghan Braun, Meghan Loury, and Emma Sunness, the team hopes to make a few upsets in the playoffs.
Highlighter Archive
Sticks it: Senior Stephanie Pollard sticks a landing after a routine on the beam. Pollard recently set a personal record on the bars, with a score of 9.575
Gymnastics HighPoints
Trevor Merrill
Serving love: Senior Casey MacMaster practices his serve during a recent tennis practice. MacMaster is projected to win his third state championship.
►Record: 5-3 ►Hot: Stephanie Poland placed third all around at the Overland Invite. She also set a personal record of 9.575 on bars aganist Thornton, Oct.6. ►Cold: A lot of girls are getting over flu and injuries. ►Outlook: Regionals take place on Oct. 29, 30 and state the week after.
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October 15, 2009
Soccer star hopes to lead team to state title by MICHAEL HOPPAL Limelight editor
Tess Halac
Looking downfield: Senior Jeff Westra (white jersey), weaves through defenders against Palmer High School. Westra has four goals and five assists this season.
If one had the caliber of talent that senior soccer player Jeff Westra has, they would be more tempted to be selfish and not rely on their teammates. But this is not the case of Westra, as he has grown into the team leader and continues to be a major aspect of the soccer team. “Jeff is not selfish with the ball, he knows how to create space and set up his teammates,” junior midfielder Andrew Fenn said. “He is a guy that makes all the players
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Jeff is not selfish with the ball , he knows how to create space and set up his teammates. Andrew Fenn, junior
around him better.” Westra has been on varsity since he was a freshman and even practiced with varsity as an eighth grader prior to the season because he played up in club soccer. Since everyone played on Rocky soccer when he was in eighth grade he
joined them. “With being on varsity a long time, I’ve seen how you should act and I’ve learned from the previous leaders,” Westra said. “I’ve taken after them.” Also being on varsity so long he has improved year to year. One of his greatest talents as a player is how he is such a great teammate. “He serves his teammates, he truly cares about them and guys can’t fake that,” Ibanez said. “He’s not the most vocal leader but his being there
Running with the
© Michelle Clark
Wolfe
Racing experience different kind of rush for Wolfe by AUSTIN ADAMS Sports editor
Imagine being in a tiny metal cage on a speedway accelerating up to speeds of 90 mph with adrenaline pumping and the crowd roaring. Sports Most people Special have to imagine this but Jacob Wolfe, who races sprint cars, does not. “I can’t explain the rush you get,” Wolfe said. “If you like speed this is definitely something for you to do.” Wolfe has been racing since he was seven years old; he started
on mini bikes and worked his way up to go karts. This past racing season Wolfe, who is a sophomore, raced in 16 races and finished second in overall points. He races at Big Country Speedway in Cheyenne, and is one of the regular winners at his races. He puts a lot of man hours in with his brother and dad to keep the car in top shape. With the weather turning colder, the offseason has started, but the racing season starts back up in the spring. In this league, Wolfe races for money and the buy-in is
Trevor Merrill
Chasing cars: Sophomore Jacob Wolfe (No. 37 in top race action) races micro sprint cars. Wolfe, who recently gave a class speech on his racing experiences, finished second for the season at Big Country Speedway in Cheyenne.
Managing sprint car team time consuming but bonding experience for Wolfe family by MICHAEL HOPPAL Limelight editor
Managing a sprint car is not your normal family bonding experience, but for Jacob Wolfe’s family it has become a part of them. Wolfe, a sophomore, is a three year sprint car racer and has had the same car for three years. Wolfe and his family have put countless hours into it.
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RM Highlighter
Sports
Laying It Out Ethan Farnsworth
Team bonding often leads to something greater
Being part of a team is extremely different than playing on a team. When you play for a team, you are there for your own good and making a name for yourself. When you are actually part of a team, you are there to be a part of something greater than yourself. You begin to play for the guy next to you instead of trying to get your name in the paper. Recently, the whole football team has begun When you to hang out are actuvarious times ally part throughout of a team the week and you are I believe that I, along with there to be many others, a part of have created something friendships that greater. we did not have before. I think it helps create bonds that show on the field. When you become friends with people off of the field, you can trust them on the field. When it comes to crunch time, you need to trust your team because you won’t always be the best player on the field. I suggest that you develop as many friendships as you can throughout the team. You should also develop friendships off the field because that is who comes to your games. It is the people within the community who come out to support you. If you behave around school and don’t act like a numbskull within the community, I can guarantee you that you will pack the stadium on game night. You will gain trust as a member of the team and you will gain respect, making people want to come watch you on game night. Ethan Farnsworth is a senior and a member of the football and track teams as well as the advertising manager of the RM Highlighter.
Linebacker Campbell goes from loser to leader by ETHAN FARNSWORTH Advertising manager
Someone’s character is displayed by their actions. Several years ago, many people would have thought little of senior linebacker Kurtis Campbell because of the poor actions he displayed. His sophomore year, he had many problems with grades, fighting and goofing off in class. He was one of the students that teachers had brainstorm-
ing sessions about figuring out how to help him. “I had heard about him in various teachers meetings, so I had a preconceived idea of who he was,” U.S. Literature teacher Joan Ruberry said. “When I got him in class, he was exactly what I was ready for.” Campbell kept goofing off and not taking things serious until his junior year when he had classes with Ruberry and fellow language arts teacher Tom
Smailes. They both helped Campbell adapt to high school, and he quickly began to improve in many aspects. A combination of tough love in class and coach Satini Liufau’s suspension from football games helped Campbell realize the bigger picture. “We showed him that if he tried, he could still have a life that includes college,” Ruberry said. “He is an
Greg Lewis
Making the play: Senior linebacker Kurtis Campbell (No. 51) trips up the quarterback during a game against Grand Junction Central High School on Sept. 26. Rocky won the game 48-0.
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Section B
October 15, 2009
RM Highlighter
Features Life in a Nutshelb Shelby Brown
Book changes views on life in America As Americans, we take our rights and freedoms for granted. I recently read a true story that gave me a huge wake-up call and has changed the way I view life. Burned Alive is a story that takes place during the 1950s in Palestine. A girl named Souad grew up in a small village in the West Bank. In her village, when a woman gives birth to a boy, it is considered an immense honor for her family. However, having a baby girl is a great misfortune and the mother has two choices: raise the baby to learn to take care of the family, or suffocate her. At the age of nineteen, Souad falls in love with a neighbor. He takes advantage of her and deflowers her before marriage. He then abandons her and leaves the village. In her village, sex before marriage is the greatest sin of them all. For many months, Souad tries to hide her stomach after finding out she’s pregnant. Her family soon learns of the sin, and her parents give her brother-in-law the duty of committing "a crime of honor." He pours gasoline over her, and burns her. Souad survives after some women from the village take her to a local hospital. She soon receives the care she needs and moves to Europe to tell her story. I cannot even begin to express how extremely lucky we are to live in America. We do not live in a society where animals are valued more than a girl, a human being. The brutal and inhumane practices that Souad experienced are not socially accepted here. Unlike Souad, boys and girls in America have the natural rights of life, liberty, and property. Under the protection of The Constitution of the United States, we have the freedoms to attend school, wear what we would like, flirt with one another, date who we please, and express love with another. We can travel where we’d like, pursue an education, and decide to become a lawyer, a doctor, a writer. I am honored to be an American, and to carry on the traditions and the responsibilities that our Founding Fathers fought and died for, our freedoms and protections. I am proud of the nation in which I live. After reading Burned Alive, I feel so exceptionally privileged to be a citizen of the United States of America. Shelby Brown is a senior and the Online Editor for the RM Highlighter.
Champi ns
World Language teachers record setters for cell phone confiscation by ELAINA TROUSIL Features editor
Of all the trophies won by sports teams, music ensembles and student organizations, there has yet to be a trophy given to academic departments for confiscating cell phones. Yet, world language teachers have been cell phone confiscation champions for the past few years—or at least for as long as such records have been kept. This year alone, the department has been setting the pace Features with a total of 20 cell Special phones confiscated out of a total of 46. “I don’t consider it a competition (cell phone confiscation between teachers of different departments),” Human Relation Liaison Jim Gjerde said. “It doesn’t make a difference to me. They’re following the rules of the school.” The cell phone policy at the school has changed recently and consists of three different offenses. The first offense occurs when a student’s phone disrupts class; the phone will be taken and turned over to administrators, usually Gjerde. After the student's name is entered into a database, the phone will be returned to the student with a warning, and a parent will be notified and informed of future consequences. The second offense carries a consequence where the phone will be turned in to an administrator and kept in the office Jump to CONFISCATION page B2
On alert: The world languages department, led by department leader Jennifer Roper (above center), is the unofficial school champion of cell phone confiscation. Along with Roper, the department consists of Kari Bridenbaugh, Leanne Cline, Laura Johnson, Kathleen McMillin, Joshua Ring, Wendy Schaffer, Pat Serrano and Stephanie Silveria.
86%
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of students use their cell phones for other methods besides communication
94%
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of students believe they should receive a warning before having their cell phones confiscated
65%
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of students think, if given the chance to have their phones out, they couldn't refrain from texting
50%
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of students believe it's their right to have their cell phones *547 students surveyed
Photo illustration by Elaina Trousil
Teachers accept new cell phone technologies, uses by TREVOR MERRILL reporter
High schools— including Rocky—view cell phones as distractions to student learning. And because of that, there are policies which ban the use of cell phones for students during class time. However, with advances in cell phone technology, including phones with apps for day planners, calculators, Internet, reminder alarms and others, some teachers are beginning to view cell phones as a tool rather than a toy. “We’re talking about 21st century skills, so in terms of technology (specifically at Rocky), you have old rules with new technology,” said Robert Parry, history and geography teacher. “Teenagers versus ‘screenagers.’ They use it for communication, calculators and planners, so to say kids need to turn off your screen (phones) is outdated.” Parry is one of many teachers who view phones as helpful rather than harmful to the educational process; whereas
other teachers view it differently. Teachers who see cell phone use in class as disruptive will take a student phone if it is seen or heard in class. The confiscated phone will then be turned over to Human Relations Liaison Jim Gjerde, who will enter the student’s name into a database. According to school policy, the student will be issued a warning on the first offense and the phone will be given back at the end of the school day. On the second offense, the phone will be held for three days, and on a third offense, the phone is held for five days. Students may reject the three- or five-day consequence by paying a $15 fine. “I don’t give warnings,” said language arts teacher Monica Kauffman. “There is no need for students to use them in my room. I do what the Code of Conduct book says. That way there is no gray area.” Even though Kauffman follows the policy
Jump to PHONES, page B2
Graduate Belford interns at the White House by GREG LEWIS Co-editor-in-cheif
While many little girls grow up dreaming of white dresses and doll houses, only a few set their sights on Washington D.C. and the White House. Rocky alumna, Kate Belford, chose the latter. “I have been interested in politics since I was little,” said Belford, who has been attending CSU since she graduated from Rocky in 2006. “My mom always took me to do kids vote on Election Day,
and I’ve been paying attention to the news since I was pretty young.” This past summer, Belford accomplished a feat that many aspiring politicians only dream of when she qualified for an internship working at the most important house in the United States. Belford applied for the internship last March on the White House web site, meeting the requirements of submitting three essays, three letters of recommendation and an outJump to INTERN page B2
Courtesy of Kate Belford
Yes we can: Alumna Kate Belford, who graduated in 2006, stands in front of the White House. Belford, a student at Colorado State University, interned at the White House over the summer.
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RM Highlighter
October 15, 2009
Features
Chasing the Golden Snitch
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Muggle world turns magical sport into club by CHLOE EVANS reporter
The magical world of Harry Potter and the Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry has begun to melt into Rocky’s culture. Sophomores Jesse Janzen and Kyle Wray have created a Quidditch Club, the magical, fictional sport created in the world of Harry Potter. “We wanted something that would create physical activity with nerdiness,” club co-president and founder Janzen said. In the books and movies the sport involves magic; students fly around on brooms 100 feet above the ground and throw enchanted balls into goals. The original game is described in the books as “basketball on broomsticks with six hoops” with additional balls designed to knock people off their brooms (bludgers), and a walnut sized, winged ball that zooms around (the snitch) the Quidditch pitch, escaping the students trying to catch it to end the game. However, since magic does not exist in the muggle (non-magic) world, Rocky students in the club are forced to adapt the game.
INTERN from page B1
standing resume involving a number of volunteer activities. “I was extremely proud, of course, and that was mixed with some anxiety about her personal safety,” Kate’s mother, Jane Belford, said of her reaction to her daughter’s news. “It was fun to watch such a positive and life-changing event happen to her.” “I worked in the Correspondence Office and more specifically for the Agency Liaison,” Kate said. “That basically means that I helped deal with and tried to solve all of the constituent hardship cases that came to us through e-mail and mail.” Although competition for the job was rigorous, if there was one person who wasn’t surprised about Belford’s summer plans, it was her mother. “Kate was an extremely competitive child and pretty intense,” Jane said. “I used to think she will either end up in prison or the White House. So I’m pleased with the direction she took. I also am not
“The rules of the game are still being advised,” other club founder, Wray said. “It’s hard to play a game that’s meant to be played in the air on the ground.” So far, the basic game is played as ultimate handball, with four chasers trying to get the quaffle, or basClub ketball, down the field and into the three goal Feature hoops. Additional players stand on the sidelines throwing bludgers, or small soccer balls, at the players while beaters try to deflect them with tennis rackets. Currently, there is no snitch. However, seekers, players who are supposed to catch the snitch, act as healers and revive the players who have been knocked down by bludgers. The effect of the Harry Potter series on this generation has been monumental. Seven best selling books and six box office smash hits have influenced countless children to begin reading, to purchase limitless amounts of Harry Potter merchandise and now, to create Quidditch Club. “Harry Potter gave a whole generation an incentive to read more books,” junior and Quidditch club member Katy Walrond, said. Quidditch has also been started and
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Don’t worry about getting where you want to be right now. Kate Belford, 2006 graduate and summer White House intern
surprised because very early on she formed strong opinions on what is fair and what isn’t.” Of course, Kate’s job description also included working among some other very competitive people, who demonstrate their opinions of fairness to the American people on a daily basis. “I got to interact with almost everyone in the administration, including meeting the President,” Kate said. “They are all amazingly accessible and definitely real, down-to-earth people. Most of all, though, they all seem like they truly care about the work they are doing and the people of the United States.” Kate has since returned home and is currently studying at CSU.
Catch, throw, score: Nikki Mayer, Courney Lorenz and Abby Huyler get into a Quidditch match at Rossborough Park. The Quidditch Club is newly formed this year and was created by students.
Chloe Evans
assimilated into other schools and colleges around the country, including Vassar College, Marlboro College, Emerson College,
However, she said the advice she received and memories she picked up during her internship will last her a lifetime. Between dealing with the problems of the country and being told by senior officials to “do what she loves and work hard,” Kate took time to make connections with her fellow interns. “They came from a variety of backgrounds and experiences, but we definitely learned to embrace the absurd experiences we had together as White House interns and got a lot of support from one another,” Belford said. However, now that her adventure has come to a resting point, Kate has her own advice for aspiring politicians. “Learn all that you can about politics and practice your written communication because that is really important, but mostly just find something that you care about and get involved with it,” Kate said. “Don’t worry about getting where you want to be right now. You’ll make your own opportunities without even knowing it if you are involved with something you’re really interested in at the local level.”
1-800 CAN LEARN
140 E. Boardwalk Dr. Suite P; Fort Collins CO 80525
and Bucknell University. “Harry Potter created a new sport,” Wray said. “It gave kids an imagination.”
CONFISCATION from page B1
area for three school days. The third offense leads to the phone being turned over to an administrator and kept in the office area for five school days. The students may revoke the three or five-day consequence by paying $15 instead. Any extra offense of the cell phone policy will result in the phone being prohibited from campus for the rest of the school year. Teachers make the argument that students should learn not to use their phones during class because there are other places for that activity. “I’m not against them (cell phones),” Spanish teacher Stephanie Silveira said. “There’s just a tiny place where they’re
PHONES from page B1
because she sees most student cell phone usage being about talking and/or texting to friends, she said there are exceptions. “If they let me know there is an emergency and fill me in,” Kauffman said. “I let them use it.” Sophomores Ben Bigler and Hudson Bloom said they believe phones can be helpful for academics. However, they admit that many teens would more likely abuse the privilege of having 24/7 access to their phones. “Blackberrys are basically PDAs (personal digital assistants), and if it’s a PDA you should be able to use them,” Bloom said. “They’re basically a computer. Half of my teachers are okay with it (using phones in class); they’ll let us use it as a calculator. As long as you’re not texting, the teachers are slack with it.” Bigler said he thinks students should have the privilege of
not needed. Like airplanes and churches. Kids need to learn how to not use them in class.” Different teachers have different rules about students using cell phones in emergency situations. “They (students) need to talk to me first, and if it’s important enough, I tell them to put it on vibrate. They have to check with me before they go out (of the classroom) and take it (the call),” French teacher Kari Bridenbaugh said. World language teachers said they aren’t just excited to be the top department at cell phone confiscation. “I think, in a way, I’m proud that we’re doing a good job,” Bridenbaugh said. “Hopefully, we’re setting a good example for other departments.”
“”
You have a society that is high tech. It’s like a third arm (for many). Bob Parry, social studies teacher
using a phone as a tool, while being responsible with it. “I think it should be allowed if it’s for personal purposes that are important—not texting your friend next to you,” Bigler said. With the school inching towards a more advanced technological environment, there’s the possibility that cell phones and how they are used in the classroom will be looked at differently in the future. Included in that future vision may be “soft” copies of textbooks and assignments, which would be downloaded to personal cell phones or PDA devices. “You have a society that is high tech,” Parry said. “It’s like a third arm (for many).”
F
RM Highlighter
Page B3
October 15, 2009
Features
Warm welcome
School gives former student teacher friendly greeting Helping out: Math teacher Will Sloop helps explain material to students. Sloop was a student teacher last year at the school for fellow math teacher Todd Pfeifer.
by TESS HALAC Center editor
New math teacher Will Sloop knows his way around the school. Sloop is one of the many newly hired faculty members. But in reality, he’s a veteran. Sloop spent last semester as a student teacher for Todd Pfeifer and also an after-school math tutor. For him, the connection Teacher to Rocky was Feature immediate. “Even since my first day at Rocky, I was like ‘I hope I get hired here,’” Sloop said. Apparently, for the students, the feeling is mutual. “Some teachers are really stiff and take a while to warm up to their classes, but Sloop was just welcoming right away,” said sophomore Brandon Osterberg. Freshman Madison Stute said her favorite thing about Sloop is all his quirks, including the cart horn, the lime green pants and, of course, the most obnoxious (but in a good way) contagious laugh.
Tess Halac
And Sloop’s favorite thing about the school? “The culture,” Sloop said. “By culture I mean the students, the feeling of the Lobo Way. Plus,
it’s the closest school to Cafe Mexicali.” Outside of teaching three geometry classes, Sloop is also actively involved in Student
Change can be ‘fun’
Recycle this newspaper after reading
Student starts fund to help friend’s diabetes needs by SHELBY BROWN Online editor
“I supply the diabetes,” said Kevin Boldt, while laughing. “And I supply the fun,” said Ryan Fergen. Boldt, a sophomore, was diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes the summer before 7th grade. Fergen, a friend of Boldt’s Student and also a Feature sophomore, was recently inspired to start a fund that they like to call, “The Fun.” During 4th hour one day near the beginning of the year while the boys were lifting weights, Boldt began to feel extremely light headed. He knew he needed to bring his blood sugar up, so Boldt and Fergen were allowed to leave class to buy some food. “I’m not really sure when it (the fund) started, but it was around the time we first left class to get Kevin food,” Fergen said. Fergen and friend Stevin Overholser, a sophomore, started the fund by sliding change and dollar bills into the slots of the locker that Boldt and Fergen share. “Whenever I’m feeling light headed or shaky, Bullock lets us leave to go get ‘the fun’,” Boldt said. Though diabetes has ruined some events in the past few years, Boldt keeps a generally positive attitude about it. “On the night of (9th grade) formal, my insulin pump broke,” Boldt said. “I had to go home early, it sucked.” Boldt checks his blood sugar about five times a day but it doesn’t seem to bother him too much. “It gets kind of annoying sometimes,” Boldt said. “It’s really not that bad and I’m just used to it by now.” Fergen and his friends aren’t expecting the fund to turn into something big, it mostly just started as something fun for the boys to do. “Kevin’s not the only student at Rocky with diabetes, so we knew
“”
Whenever I’m feeling light headed or shaky, Bullock lets us leave to go get ‘the fun.’ Kevin Boldt, sophomore
this wouldn’t turn into a huge deal,” Fergen said. “But hey, if anyone feels like donating some money, drop by locker number 3089.”
Council as one of the advisers. He is also the club sponsor for the brand-new-to-Rocky Quidditch Club, which holds meetings during lunch and has games
after school at Rossborough Park. Quidditch is a game from the Harry Potter novels and movies. In addition, Sloop also holds a job at a video relay service company, which translates deaf phones to hearing phones. One would think holding two jobs and holding two major positions for clubs would tire one out. Luckily, Sloop’s a special breed. “He’s always very energetic and happy,” Stute said. “And he still gets here at, like, six in the morning.” But after all, it comes down to academics. Sloop received his undergraduate degree at Clemson University in Math, and a Master’s Degree at Colorado State University in education. He said he became interested in teaching after tutoring students in math and chemistry. And all funniness aside, the students all like him as person, but as a teacher too. “He’s always so helpful,” Stute said. “He likes teaching, I can tell.”
Shelby Brown
Pointing out change: Kevin Boldt, Stevin Overholser and Ryan Fergen point to Boldt and Fergen’s locker, gesturing where to put change for ‘The Fun,’ a fund Fergen and Overholser started for Boldt because of his diabetes.
Page B4
October 15, 2009
Halloween: A History by TESS HALAC Center editor
Over 2,000 years ago, the Celts of modernday Ireland celebrated a holiday called Samhain on Oct. 31 to commemorate the end of the summer and bring in the harvest season. The Celts believed that at this time the borders were blurred between the souls of the living and the dead. Supernatural hostile forces were present and ghosts and spirits were free to roam the earth. The people of this era offered animal, crop and sometimes even human sacrifices and prayed to the Celtic deities to protect them from this evil. People would also call upon their gods and ask for the sun to eventually return after the harvest season. People would often dress in costumes to avoid conflict with the dead, pretending to be another spirit so as not to be recognized. In addition, people carved pumpkins representing the demons to frighten the other evil spirits away. In the 800s when Christianity was a growing influence across Europe, Pope Boniface IV designated Nov. 1 All Saints’ Day to honor saints and martyrs. This holiday was thought to be created specifically to blend with the previous Pagan holiday. At first, Halloween was celebrated very little in America due to the settlers’ strict Protestant belief systems. However, as time went on and more immigrants came to American with their own set of values, the popularity of Halloween also changed. The traditions of Halloween were most altered specifically during the Irish Potato Famine in 1846 when there was an influx of Irish immigrants to help popularize the holiday. By borrowing from other European rituals, Americans began dressing up in costumes and asking neighbors for food and money, which eventually led to the trick-or-treating that people still practice today. Various Christian groups have chosen to boycott the holiday, claiming it as a Pagan and satanic holiday. It remains a controversial issue throughout the world today.
C
Halloween: Something to scream
Page B5
RM Highlighter
Center Section
about...
especially since Oct. 31 is on a Saturday this year
A Teen Halloween
Halloween activities used to scare, excite
by MARY WILLSON reporter
Ghouls, goblins and ghosts. Oh my! Millions of people can be caught sitting at the end of their seat, teeth clenched, heart beating fast, and hair standing on end. The phenomenon of loving a good thriller never gets old. People love being scared. What actually fuels this phenomenon has baffled physiologists for decades. Frankenstein came to life in 1818 and Chucky in 1988. The love of being scared is timeless. The adrenaline rush you get when you watch a really scary movie, go to a haunted corn maze, haunted house, or anything else very scary is a definite draw for entertainment. In a 2007 article by Medical News Today, three dominant theories were presented and discussed by psychologists as to why people will willingly put themselves in such daunting situations, and actually enjoy it. One presumption is that people are not actually scared, but rather excited by these circumstances. Another one suggests that people are willing to endure terrifying suspense in order to feel a euphoric sense of relief at the end. This ties in directly to people’s needs and wants for that perfect adrenaline high. “I love scary movies so much because I like the adrenaline rush, that’s number one,” junior Samantha Beck said. “The fact that they make you jump and give you adrenaline and excitement is why I like them,” junior Brittni Knittle
said. Feeling vulnerable and scared while actually in a safe environment is a critical part of this theory. Like anything, haunted houses, corn mazes and horror movies are only as good as their believability. The ability to transfix humans with horror and even force them to completely forget about reality often determines the ultimate success. The most recent explanation for this phenomenon said that people will have both positive and negative emotions simultaneously throughout the course of experience, but in most cases, the good emotion trumps the bad. "The most pleasant moments of a particular event may also be the most fearful," said Eduardo Andrade and Joel Cohen, the authors of the article. While horror is enjoyable to some, for others being voluntarily frightened is hugely unappealing. “I think some people don’t like the sense of being affected by horror,” Beck said. “ It affects them mentally. It doesn’t affect them like the people who do like them.” What is the difference between these people? Fear is what one would feel when a person realizes that they are being threatened, when one places them self in the situation that the characters are in the film. The people that don’t like horror movies let their imagination run wild, and think about the fact that it could happen to them. These people would rather not imagine themselves being chased by a maniac with a chainsaw. The phenomenon of being willingly frightened may never be answered; nevertheless there’s no doubt there will be a lot of adrenaline flowing with Halloween just around the corner.
From innocent candy gathering to raging parties and risqué costumes by ZONYA DAWSON reporter
Think back to Halloween six or seven years ago. Picture it. What did the girls wear? What did the boys wear? What was the most popular costume? Spider-man? A pumpkin? A football player? Now think about last Halloween or plans for this Halloween. What is the most popular costume now? “When I was little, I would see stuff like cartoon characters, cowboys, princesses and super heroes, but now they (teenagers) take a football player and make it a skanky football player,” senior Conner Hankins said. Halloween used to be a day where young children would dress up in scary characters like a ghost by cutting holes into old bed sheets and running down the street asking for candy. Today, the once young children are teenagers and young adults, and while most still do slip on a seemingly innocent costume, the hem is shorter and the neckline a lot lower. “Halloween is an excuse to dress skimpy,” senior Peter Steiner said. “The girls (costumes) just get skimpier and skimpier every year.” The changing culture does not only involve the shortness of the hem line, but also a change in attitude of the young adults. “We are a consumerism nation as a whole and that is evident around Halloween,” librarian Cassie Poncelow said. “It is the largest consumer holiday, it is just ludicrous.” One Halloween store in Fort Collins, Spirit Halloween, had ads that were filled with pictures of women’s costumes
“”
It’s a concern for me, because the lifestyle that dressing like that seems to be like, dress like a hoe, act like a hoe. -Cassie Poncelow, librarian
with anything from a Playboy witch to a Playboy Little Bo Peep, to a sexy Dallas Cowboy Cheerleader. None of the outfits would be deemed appropriate in a grandmother’s eyes. “There is a trend that girls use the opportunity to dress up to be revealing and scandalous,” Poncelow said. Junior Nikki Mayer admitted to falling victim to such trend. “It’s just like Mean Girls,” Mayer said. In the movie, Mean Girls, the main character admits that “Halloween is the one night a year when girls can dress like a total slut and no other girls can say anything about it.” “It is just a terribly sad message about how we (women) see our value in society by the way we dress,” Poncelow said. Even though fallen victim to such trend, Mayer feels saddened that the once a trick-or-treat holiday is now turned into a day to dress promiscuously. “It’s not as exciting and not as fun with no trick or treating,” junior Jessica Beard said. The only thing I do anymore is carve pumpkins.” Hankins said he feels that Halloween nowadays is just a day for teens
to go out and do crazy things. “We all grew up; we do different things now; it’s sad that our youth just went by so fast,” Hankins said. “It’s a TPing holiday.” Year after year, many young adults leave their homes on Oct. 31 and instead of doing what the holiday intended, they head to a friend’s or even a stranger’s home and do anything from sitting around and just talking to smoking marijuana and drinking alcohol. “It has no meaning anymore,” Beard said. Many teens, especially those getting ready for adulthood, are now starting to realize that partying and dressing in a risqué fashion is not the right way to spend Halloween. “ It’s a concern for me because the lifestyle of dressing like that (promiscuously) seems to be like, dress like a hoe, act like a hoe,” Poncelow said. For many teens, the reason why they party and dress the way they do is tied directly to society’s expectations. Many teens find it hard to go trick-or-treating because of the negative reactions they receive from neighbors who say they are too old. However, teens are also too young to drink alcohol and be out after midnight. This double standard is confusing, and possibly contributes to the crazy and dangerous partying that is especially prominent during the teen years. “It’s so sad, I want to go trick or treating, the candy was the best, and no one was judging you,” Mayer said. “Halloween used to be really fun.”
Page B4
October 15, 2009
Halloween: A History by TESS HALAC Center editor
Over 2,000 years ago, the Celts of modernday Ireland celebrated a holiday called Samhain on Oct. 31 to commemorate the end of the summer and bring in the harvest season. The Celts believed that at this time the borders were blurred between the souls of the living and the dead. Supernatural hostile forces were present and ghosts and spirits were free to roam the earth. The people of this era offered animal, crop and sometimes even human sacrifices and prayed to the Celtic deities to protect them from this evil. People would also call upon their gods and ask for the sun to eventually return after the harvest season. People would often dress in costumes to avoid conflict with the dead, pretending to be another spirit so as not to be recognized. In addition, people carved pumpkins representing the demons to frighten the other evil spirits away. In the 800s when Christianity was a growing influence across Europe, Pope Boniface IV designated Nov. 1 All Saints’ Day to honor saints and martyrs. This holiday was thought to be created specifically to blend with the previous Pagan holiday. At first, Halloween was celebrated very little in America due to the settlers’ strict Protestant belief systems. However, as time went on and more immigrants came to American with their own set of values, the popularity of Halloween also changed. The traditions of Halloween were most altered specifically during the Irish Potato Famine in 1846 when there was an influx of Irish immigrants to help popularize the holiday. By borrowing from other European rituals, Americans began dressing up in costumes and asking neighbors for food and money, which eventually led to the trick-or-treating that people still practice today. Various Christian groups have chosen to boycott the holiday, claiming it as a Pagan and satanic holiday. It remains a controversial issue throughout the world today.
C
Halloween: Something to scream
Page B5
RM Highlighter
Center Section
about...
especially since Oct. 31 is on a Saturday this year
A Teen Halloween
Halloween activities used to scare, excite
by MARY WILLSON reporter
Ghouls, goblins and ghosts. Oh my! Millions of people can be caught sitting at the end of their seat, teeth clenched, heart beating fast, and hair standing on end. The phenomenon of loving a good thriller never gets old. People love being scared. What actually fuels this phenomenon has baffled physiologists for decades. Frankenstein came to life in 1818 and Chucky in 1988. The love of being scared is timeless. The adrenaline rush you get when you watch a really scary movie, go to a haunted corn maze, haunted house, or anything else very scary is a definite draw for entertainment. In a 2007 article by Medical News Today, three dominant theories were presented and discussed by psychologists as to why people will willingly put themselves in such daunting situations, and actually enjoy it. One presumption is that people are not actually scared, but rather excited by these circumstances. Another one suggests that people are willing to endure terrifying suspense in order to feel a euphoric sense of relief at the end. This ties in directly to people’s needs and wants for that perfect adrenaline high. “I love scary movies so much because I like the adrenaline rush, that’s number one,” junior Samantha Beck said. “The fact that they make you jump and give you adrenaline and excitement is why I like them,” junior Brittni Knittle
said. Feeling vulnerable and scared while actually in a safe environment is a critical part of this theory. Like anything, haunted houses, corn mazes and horror movies are only as good as their believability. The ability to transfix humans with horror and even force them to completely forget about reality often determines the ultimate success. The most recent explanation for this phenomenon said that people will have both positive and negative emotions simultaneously throughout the course of experience, but in most cases, the good emotion trumps the bad. "The most pleasant moments of a particular event may also be the most fearful," said Eduardo Andrade and Joel Cohen, the authors of the article. While horror is enjoyable to some, for others being voluntarily frightened is hugely unappealing. “I think some people don’t like the sense of being affected by horror,” Beck said. “ It affects them mentally. It doesn’t affect them like the people who do like them.” What is the difference between these people? Fear is what one would feel when a person realizes that they are being threatened, when one places them self in the situation that the characters are in the film. The people that don’t like horror movies let their imagination run wild, and think about the fact that it could happen to them. These people would rather not imagine themselves being chased by a maniac with a chainsaw. The phenomenon of being willingly frightened may never be answered; nevertheless there’s no doubt there will be a lot of adrenaline flowing with Halloween just around the corner.
From innocent candy gathering to raging parties and risqué costumes by ZONYA DAWSON reporter
Think back to Halloween six or seven years ago. Picture it. What did the girls wear? What did the boys wear? What was the most popular costume? Spider-man? A pumpkin? A football player? Now think about last Halloween or plans for this Halloween. What is the most popular costume now? “When I was little, I would see stuff like cartoon characters, cowboys, princesses and super heroes, but now they (teenagers) take a football player and make it a skanky football player,” senior Conner Hankins said. Halloween used to be a day where young children would dress up in scary characters like a ghost by cutting holes into old bed sheets and running down the street asking for candy. Today, the once young children are teenagers and young adults, and while most still do slip on a seemingly innocent costume, the hem is shorter and the neckline a lot lower. “Halloween is an excuse to dress skimpy,” senior Peter Steiner said. “The girls (costumes) just get skimpier and skimpier every year.” The changing culture does not only involve the shortness of the hem line, but also a change in attitude of the young adults. “We are a consumerism nation as a whole and that is evident around Halloween,” librarian Cassie Poncelow said. “It is the largest consumer holiday, it is just ludicrous.” One Halloween store in Fort Collins, Spirit Halloween, had ads that were filled with pictures of women’s costumes
“”
It’s a concern for me, because the lifestyle that dressing like that seems to be like, dress like a hoe, act like a hoe. -Cassie Poncelow, librarian
with anything from a Playboy witch to a Playboy Little Bo Peep, to a sexy Dallas Cowboy Cheerleader. None of the outfits would be deemed appropriate in a grandmother’s eyes. “There is a trend that girls use the opportunity to dress up to be revealing and scandalous,” Poncelow said. Junior Nikki Mayer admitted to falling victim to such trend. “It’s just like Mean Girls,” Mayer said. In the movie, Mean Girls, the main character admits that “Halloween is the one night a year when girls can dress like a total slut and no other girls can say anything about it.” “It is just a terribly sad message about how we (women) see our value in society by the way we dress,” Poncelow said. Even though fallen victim to such trend, Mayer feels saddened that the once a trick-or-treat holiday is now turned into a day to dress promiscuously. “It’s not as exciting and not as fun with no trick or treating,” junior Jessica Beard said. The only thing I do anymore is carve pumpkins.” Hankins said he feels that Halloween nowadays is just a day for teens
to go out and do crazy things. “We all grew up; we do different things now; it’s sad that our youth just went by so fast,” Hankins said. “It’s a TPing holiday.” Year after year, many young adults leave their homes on Oct. 31 and instead of doing what the holiday intended, they head to a friend’s or even a stranger’s home and do anything from sitting around and just talking to smoking marijuana and drinking alcohol. “It has no meaning anymore,” Beard said. Many teens, especially those getting ready for adulthood, are now starting to realize that partying and dressing in a risqué fashion is not the right way to spend Halloween. “ It’s a concern for me because the lifestyle of dressing like that (promiscuously) seems to be like, dress like a hoe, act like a hoe,” Poncelow said. For many teens, the reason why they party and dress the way they do is tied directly to society’s expectations. Many teens find it hard to go trick-or-treating because of the negative reactions they receive from neighbors who say they are too old. However, teens are also too young to drink alcohol and be out after midnight. This double standard is confusing, and possibly contributes to the crazy and dangerous partying that is especially prominent during the teen years. “It’s so sad, I want to go trick or treating, the candy was the best, and no one was judging you,” Mayer said. “Halloween used to be really fun.”
Page B6
RM Highlighter
October 15, 2009
Limelight
L
Games and entertainment by Allie Daniels, Shelby Brown, and Elaina Trousil
Boxers or briefs?
Swine flu or herpes?
Is it ok to wear boots with mini skirts when it’s snowing outstide?
Favorite game?
William Sloop, teacher
Neither
eeeee!!!!! Herpes
No!
Justin Youngk, senior
Definitely Boxers
just Swine flu That’s weird
So bad at this!
Name/Grade
Marshall Anderson, junior
Briefs
Charlie Anderson, sophomore
Briefs
Both
Only if you wear shin guards
I like the Yea, I like combo mini skirts
Dungeons and Dragons
Quidditch Candy Land
I love to be looked at - Lukas Swartz
Answer posted on RM Highlighter bulletin board outside of Room 528
Top Ten
Worst Homecoming Themes
10. The Holocaust 9. A school year at Collins 8. Tool Academy (everyone wear a fauxhawk) 7. Prom
6. A night at home 5. A weekend at Neverland Ranch 4. Code 99 (everyone dance very quietly in the corner)
3. Brothel (buy a date) 2. Welcome to the jungle… the Vietnam jungle 1. Tyler’s fantasy by Allie Daniels, Austin Adams, Greg Lewis, Colton Klemperer
Couples Retreat poor
New Halo worth buying
Movie’s jokes get old by end of movie by TAYLOR WRIGHT Viewpoint editor
Couples Retreat proves to be a vacation not worth taking. In the movie four couples take a vacation to a resort called Eden West in order to salvage their marriages. With such a phenomenal cast, which includes Vince Vaughn and pal Jon Favreau, one would expect Couples Retreat to be a vacation from the typical, mediocre romantic comedies. Movie However, this Review movie was anything but a retreat, and instead, proved to be merely exhausting. In fact, it fulfilled the romantic comedy stereotype perfectly: chock-full of crude one-liners and cheesy sentimental moments to distract audiences from a blatantly absent plot line. From the very beginning of the film, tasteless humor is forced into every possible nook and cranny,
Barnum from page B8
the opportunity to create a preshow which is something we’ve never done before either.” This year’s musical also allows for more students, not just leads, to participate on stage throughout the entire musical. “This musical is chorus oriented so there are a lot of chorus numbers,” cast member and senior Mackenzie VanMevran said. “Last year’s play was mostly leads so chorus didn’t get on stage a lot.”
mainly in the form of irrelevant dialogue. Of course, stupid jokes, how ever unnecessary they may be to the overriding plot, do have the potential to be hilarious. And, for the first third or so of the movie, some of the undemanding humor is truly amusing, but after 90 minutes of the same variety of joke over and over again, the male-oriented comedy becomes both excessive and tiring. Couples Retreat must have incorporated more than a dozen jokes that made reference to male anatomy, none of which were even slightly original in concept or execution. During one scene, Joey (Jon Favreau) receives a massage from a female masseuse, and low and behold, becomes sexually stimulated, which then devolves into an altercation between him and the masseuse. Every single comedy set-up during the movie is predictable, overused and frankly, disgusting. Naturally, no bad comedy
The emphasis on chorus means a stress on group dancing and singing, whereas last year’s more traditional musical, Into the Woods, highlighted individual acts and solos. The circumstance of a circus atmosphere creates the necessity for dancers. “Last year’s musical had a lot less dancers,” dancer and junior Hayley Bancroft said. “This year it takes a lot of time and effort because there are so many people. Barnum’s a fun and different show that not many people have seen; it’s going to be great.”
comes without at least one maleon-male action joke, and Couples Retreat not only fulfilled this mandatory requirement, but once again, exhausted it. Nearly five minutes is dedicated entirely to a scene that involves a male yoga instructor teaching the couples poses in a deliberately sexual manner, ultimately serving no purpose other than satisfying men’s absurd sense of humor. All of the humor targeted at males is overwhelming, and so in order to offset it, the movie incorporates lame attempts to appeal to female movie-goers in the form of nauseating sappy moments. During one scene, Jason (Jason Bateman) becomes a puddle of romantic mush, going so far as to ask the question, “Can we get back to the place of being in love?” The writers of Couples Retreat must think women are shallow, transparent beings. No woman appreciates sappy moments just
Circus from page B8
Silver City, New Mexico, that teaches arts from the early 1800s. Eden, on the other hand, had no previous experience with walking on stilts, but she learned the skill in only one day. Eden accredits her quick uptake with her extensive experience with dance and gymnastics. “If you have any sense of balance whatsoever, it’s not that difficult,” Eden said about stilt walking. To further immerse them-
by HUNTER RICHMOND reporter
John Johnson/Universal Pictures/MCT
Vacation: Malin Akerman and Vince Vaungh star in the movie Couples Retreat. Them and four other couples take a retreat to save their marriages.
for the sake of sappy moments. They aren’t endearing, nor are they executed well, so why don’t the writers just leave them out? Between the repulsive penis jokes and the pitiful emotional moments, Couples Retreat is nothing more than a run of the mill romantic comedy, and moviegoers should seriously consider taking a vacation from this film.
Grade: D+
selves into the circus-like atmosphere, the actors in Barnum attended an actual Barnum & Bailey circus on Wednesday, Sept. 30. More than simply attending, the students were able to go backstage to have a question and answer session with the performers. “I think that it helped us to better understand the energy and feel of the circus,” actress Kaia Lagoni said. “We all understand now that the circus is all about involving the audience in the show”
The latest installment of the Halo 3 series has finally arrived, and with it comes more covenant aliens to shoot. Game ODST Review brings a new type of fight to the Halo universe, with a new firefight style of play. In the feature the player creates a battle scenario to fight waves of covenant in a set area. Most of the old weapons are back, except the Battle Rifle. However, there are a few new weapons to take its place, like the new Semi-Machine Gun with a silencer attached. Another new weapon is the pistol, although it was present in all the previous Halo games this time it has a scope bringing a whole new way to snipe. In the campaign the pistol and battle rifle are the two starting weapons, and also the most common for firefight matches. The campaign for ODST is totally new. The player starts out as “The Rookie,” but as they progress through levels of the game new characters become unlocked. Now only having a campaign and firefight, most people wouldn’t spend the $60 for ODST. However, it also comes with a second disc with all of the Halo 3 multi-player games on it. This includes online play, forge and most of the original ways to play.
Grade: A-
L
RM Highlighter
Page B7
October 15, 2009
Limelight
Surrogates creative idea, weak plot
New Willis film still keeps audiences amused at times by COLTON KLEMPERER Co-editor-in-chief
In the 21st century, our lives are often split in two. One section of our lives requires us to be the most productive, able versions of ourselves as we work to achieve success in our daily lives. The other part is that unique, imperfect part of ourselves that makes us all human, which some try to hide from everyone around them. Surrogates brings this idea to a new level. In a future world, humans have the option of living through their own personal surrogate, a perfect robot of themselves to live their daily lives for them while humans operate them from the comforts of their own home. The surrogates look human, but with completely flawless features. This is one of the main themes the movie attempts to address; what is the price of a ‘perfect’ society.
The technology divides the U.S. between two groups; the ones who utilize the new technology, and the ones that reject it and try to create their own societies where surrogates Movie are not allowed. Review For years, there were virtually no murders at all as surrogates lived the lives of humans for them, until one day when FBI agent Tom Greer (Bruce Willis) is asked to investigate two murders. Under normal circumstances, when a surrogate is damaged in any way, the human operator can simply buy a new one. In this case, however, a killer has discovered new technology that not only destroys the surrogate, but kills the operator as well, a process that isn’t explained in the movie and leads to some confusion. One of the deaths happens to be the son of the creator of the surrogate program. Eventu-
ally, the search for the killer leads Greer to the surrogate-free areas, and he is forced to live without the technology he began to take for granted as the conspiracy begins to unravel. Many of the best science fiction movies are often driven by an unusual or complex idea that makes audiences question our ways of existence in the world we know. Surrogates does well in this area, as it addresses the fact that many people today are relying heavily on the technology that is a part of everyday life, and we are losing touch with many of the attributes that make us human. However, the plot throughout the movie is difficult to navigate through during particular scenes. This is not helped by the fact that the movie is only 85 minutes, as if some scenes to help the plot flow were left out. The
Touchstone Pictures/MCT
Operating: FBI agent Tom Greer (Bruce Willis) operates his surrogate at home in the movie Surrogates. The movie is based off a world where everyone stays at home and operates a surrogate, a perfect robot of themselves.
humans acting as robots were largely impressive and believable, but the actual human scenes were mediocre and lacked the emotion necessary for the movie to hit the audience. Because the idea behind the movie is so intriguing, Surrogates
has its entertaining moments. However, parts of the plot seemed to be missing, and other parts seemed to be unnecessary, which ultimately hurts the majority of the movie.
Grade: B-
Pearl Jam continues to impress with Backspacer by GREG LEWIS Co-editor-in-chief
After a career that spans almost two decades, it seems that Eddie Vedder may finally be smiling somewhere. The sudden optimism may be a result of the end to George Bush’s term as president, giving the Pearl Jam front man CD time to stray Review away from the political protest songs that made up the bulk of their last effort, 2006’s Pearl Jam. Or it could simply be a reaction to the idea that he and his fellow band mates have survived more than their fair share of career suicide attempts (grudging battles with Ticketmaster, refusal to air music videos, constant longing to evade the radio waves, etc.) only to release their ninth studio
album, Backspacer, without ever missing a beat. “It was all based on the brand new idea to us of ‘Let’s write the songs before we record them,’” Vedder has said of the album. Whatever the idea was, Pearl Jam’s latest effort has resulted in not only their most concise album to date, clocking a mere 37 minutes, but also the birth of a more carefree Vedder who seems less concerned with the political issues that were stitched into their last album and more concerned with creating great rock and roll. The title Backspacer sums up the album perfectly, as Pearl Jam backspaces to relive the signature sound of their early work such as 1994’s Vitalogy, while combining it with the maturity that they have developed in their later years.
The aging grunge rockers start off the album with one swift kick to the gut, as the first three songs, “Gonna See My Friend,” “Got Some,” and “The Fixer” display a nine minute tour de force of punk charged anthems more full of life and energy than much of their previous work. Although the rest of the album may not match the intensity of
the first three songs, it never lacks in heart. “Just Breathe” very well could have been a bonus track from Vedder’s folk influenced solo soundtrack for Into the Wild, and may be the group’s most honest love song to date. While much of Pearl Jam’s sound still revolves around snarling guitar riffs and Vedder’s rugged but passionate vocals, the band’s lyrics have certainly changed over time. After years of telling tales of childhood suicide in 1991’s “Jeremy,” hopeless spousal abuse in 1994’s “Better Man,” and political catastrophe in 2006’s “Worldwide Suicide,” Vedder seems to have finally found it in his heart to give his characters some sort of hope and optimism. “If something’s old, I wanna put a bit of shine on it,” Vedder bellows in “The Fixer.” “When
Crepe shop creates a great atmosphere Wild with unique food for affordable prices from page B8 by ALLIE DANIELS reporter
Not many restaurants provide both a fun atmosphere and unique food at an affordable price. The Funky Monkey Crepe Café easily covers all three. The walls are splatter-painted in all different colors of the rainbow, their crepes are distinctive and delicious, and you can without doubt enjoy an entire meal for less than $10. The café specializes in crepes, both savory and sweet. Their menu includes Food over two dozen Review different crepe creations, including a create-your-own crepe with no limit on toppings. The options are endless. The meals are delicious, and tailored to each customer’s distinctive taste. Not only are they incredible, but they are completely satisfying. People can choose from different kind of meats, cheeses, vegetables, fruits, nuts and chocolates to design
Allie Daniels
Funky Monkey Crepe Café: A new crepe shop that just recently open located on 130 S. College Ave. It serves a variety of crepes including deserts crepes.
their own crepes. The crepes are extremely filling and eating just one is a satisfying meal. The service was great; the owners of the Café also serve as cooks and waiters. They were
extremely friendly and talkative and held conversations with customers for about 30 minutes. The sociability of the employees adds to the fun, welcoming atmosphere. All of the crepes are very affordable. The savory crepes are $6.75 and the sweet ones are only $5. The food is filling, delicious and easy on the wallet. The Funky Monkey Crepe Café also has very convenient hours. They are open until 10 p.m. on weekdays and 2:30 a.m. on weekends which is very fitting for a college town and even for high schools students out on the weekends. Especially since it is located downtown on 103 S. College Ave. The enjoyable atmosphere, unique food, and affordable prices make this restaurant very appealing to all types of people. While the setting is more casual than anything else, the café makes a great place to hang out and enjoy good food.
Grade: A
Things Are was one of the first I selected. Jackson, my son, is only 18 months old, but already loves to look at the pictures of the crazy creatures.” Although the book is wellloved by many individuals, young and old alike, some are skeptical that its message will translate well onto film. “It’s going to be a kid’s movie, but it will probably be too scary for kids,” Van Dalen said. “But if it was made into a movie for teens and adults, they would have to change the plot too much to make it scary enough.” Others, however, are very optimistic about the outcome
something’s gone, I wanna fight to get it back again.” “Amongst the Waves” carries the epic arena-sized chorus found in the 1991 classic “Alive,” but without the underlying themes of pain and denial. “Riding high amongst the waves, I can feel like I have a soul that has been saved,” Vedder sings. Even the hopeless addict in “Speed of Sound” seems to be clinging on the hope of a better future as Vedder belts, “And yet I’m still holding tight to this dream of distant light and that somehow I’ll survive.” And somehow, Pearl Jam has survived. They have survived almost 20 years, and they are still at the top of their game. Now there is something to smile about.
Grade: B
of the upcoming film version of Where the Wild Things Are. “The main reason I think the movie will work is because it has a very edgy director in Spike Jonze,” Adams said. “He sees things very uniquely, as evidenced by his other works, such as Being John Malkovich. A book that is this imaginative and avant garde deserves a film that is equally so, and I think Jonze is the perfect one to do it. I don’t expect it to be just like the book. It is an interpretation of the book and one at I look forward to seeing.” Despite the varying opinions about the upcoming film, the movie is sure to draw audiences from all age groups, bringing out every person’s inner Wild Thing.
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October 15, 2009
RM Highlighter
Limelight
Barnum includes circus atmosphere
Barnum unlike any other musical
by TAYLOR WRIGHT Viewpoint editor
by CHLOE EVANS reporter
Creating the environment Complete with juggling, of a circus requires clowns, magic, stilt walkers, and even tightrope walkers, unicyclists, acrobats, this year’s musical jugglers, baton twirlers and Barnum promises not to be like contortionists. another old high school play. In order to fulfill these deBarnum tells the story of manding positions, actors in the P.T. Barnum of Barnum and fall musical, Barnum, have had Bailey’s Circus and his daring to learn how to become acrobats, circus travelling around the despite their lack of prior experiworld in the 19th century. Unence. like any other show Rocky has Even before entering the put on, Barnum has presented auditorium, audiences will be some challenges with adjusting immersed in the ambiance of the a circus and all of its eccentric show. Haley Bancroft, a junior features to a high school stage. in the musical, recently learned “Finding students the inner-workings of balloon with ‘circus talents’ art. The owner of her dance such as juggling, riding Limelight studio, Inertia, used to be a a unicycle, Special clown at birthand even making day parties, so balloon animals has Bancroft learned this art through been a challenge,” her connection. Pre-show, musical theater Bancroft will be making balloon production teacher art outside of the auditorium for Larissa Schendel audience members. said. “We also “I’m going to be making gihave to keep high raffes, dogs, hats and, of course, energy the ►Kiersten Eden, snakes,” entire show junior Barnum Bancroft to continue that circus ►Showings: said. “It’s to Kaitlin Clark create the ‘feel’ and Demonstration : Junior Kiersten Eden demonstrates a trick to the auThe play will environment dience. It took place while attending the Barnum & Bailey circus. that can be a little exhausting.” show on Oct. of a Despite the difficulties of 15, 16 and 17 circus.” this year’s production, MTP ►Tickets: Felstudents seem to be enjoying children: $7; low the aspects of learning ‘circusstudents actors in like’ choreography and stunts. and senior the muCompared to last year’s sical will darker and more serious mucitizens: $9; also be sical, Into the Woods, Barnum’s adults: $11 performtone is significantly different ing acrobatic stunts. Kiersten because of the lighter music Eden, a junior, and Misha and three ring circus atmoThompson, also a junior, will sphere. be walking on scaffolding “The energy of the entire stilts during the performance. show was very appealing, as Thompson already knew well as the opportunity to how to walk on stilts before pull in various talents never the show because of attendused in musical theatre here,” Kaitlin Clark ing Fort Bayard, a festival in Learning from the best: Senior MacKenzie VanMeveren (left) and junior Ki- Schendel said. “It also gave us Jump to CIRCUS, page B6
ersten Eden (right) listen to a professional apart of the circus. The actors in Barnum attended an actual Barnum & Bailey circus on Wednesday, Sept. 30
Jump to BARNUM, page B6
Where the Wild Things Are long awaited by TAYLOR WRIGHT Viewpoint editor
Matt Nettheim/Warner Bros/MCT
Fear: Max Records stars as the main character in the movie Where the Wild Things Are. It opens in theaters nationwide on Friday.
Inside all of us is a Wild Thing. And on Oct. 16, every wild Thing can be set free with the release of the film Where the Wild Things Are. Originally a children’s picture book written by Maurice Sendak, Where the Wild Things Are has gained vast recognition since its publication in 1963, winning numerous literary awards from the Caldecott Metal to the Boston Globe-Horn Book Award. “It’s a classic that everyone knows,” business teacher Scott Van Dalen said. “It’s not quite Dr. Seuss material, but it’s up there in terms of recognition.” Just nine sentences and 20 pages long, Where the
Wild Things Are illustrates the adventures of a young boy, Max, who, after being sent to his room without supper, uses his imagination to create the mysterious land of the Wild Things. Here, he becomes “King of all Wild Things,” but soon thereafter, returns to his room once again where everything remains exactly as it was before. “For so many children, including me a long time ago, the story is all about imagination,” language arts teacher Jennifer Adams said. “There are so few words, but we all could look at the wonderful illustrations and fill in our own mental images of what a wild rumpus is, and as a child, I wanted to be in one, even though I knew parts of it
would be terrifying.” Where the Wild Things Are is universally beloved, and has stood the test of time through several generations. Adults still remember their experiences with the book in their childhoods, and in turn, share their love for the work with their children. “My kids love the book,” math teacher Mark Brook said about Where the Wild Things Are. “They like to sing a song they call ‘The Grumpus’ when the animals dance around.” “When I found out I was pregnant with my son a few years ago, I went to Barnes and Noble to buy a few special books to have in the nursery,” Adams said. “Where the Wild Jump to WILD, page B7
What’s in the Limelight? Oct. 16 Movie: Law Abiding Citizen Movie: The Stepfather Movie: Where the Wild Things Are Fall Musical: Barnum, auditorium Oct. 17 Concert: Relient K at the Ogden Fall Musical: Barnum, auditorium Oct. 20 CD Release: CartelCycles CD Release: Flight of the Conchords- I Told You I Was Freaky CD Release: Tim McGraw- Southern Voice Concert: Boys Like Girls at the Ogden Oct. 21 Concert: Sean Kingston at the Ogden Oct. 23 Movie: Saw VI Homecoming dance in the commons Oct. 27 CD Release: Michael Jackson- This Is It CD Release: R.E.M.Live At The Olympia CD Release: WeezerRaditude Oct. 28 Movie: Michael Jackson’s This Is It Senior Class MeetingGraduation Information Oct. 29 Trick or Treat Street at Rocky Oct. 30 Concert: Tech N9ne at the Fillmore Nov. 3 CD Release: Carrie Underwood- Play On CD Release: Shwayze- Let It Beat Concert: Dashboard Confessional at the Fillmore Nov. 8 Concert: Paramore at the Fillmore Nov. 10 CD Release: Bon JoviThe Circle CD Release: Dashboard ConfessionalAfter The Ending CD Release: FlyleafMemento Mori CD Release: Switchfoot- Hello Hurricane CD Release: Three 6 Mafia- Laws Of Power Concert: Hollywood Undead at the Fillmore Concert: Rocky choir in the auditorium