Rocky Mountain Highlighter: 2011 May by Rocky Mountain Highlighter

Rocky Mountain May 13, 2011 Volume 38, No. 9

Hair Raiser ends in exciting success Features, 4

ighlighter

New groundskeeper brings quality to field Sports,8

Everything as far as you can see -John Denver, Rocky Mountain High Rocky Mountain High School 1300 W. Swallow Rd. Fort Collins, Colo. 80526

Where we are... 150 years later

One hundred fifty years ago, the southern states seceded from the union, marking the beginning of the Civil War. Innumerable aspects of life have been reformed since then, but the legacy of the war lives on. Everything that the former generations fought and lived for can still be seen in the present day. Although a specific cause or effect could never be pinpointed for something as serious as the Civil War, such topics can be examined. There are seven predominant theories about the causes of the Civil War. Kenneth Stampp, a Civil War historian, wrote a book called The Causes of the Civil War, in which he outlines seven different possible causal aspects of the war: the “slave power” and the “black republicans,” state rights and nationalism, economic sectionalism, blundering politicians and irresponsible agitators, the right and wrong of slavery, majority rule and minority rights and the conflicts of cultures. “From an economic standpoint, the North and South were moving in opposite directions; there was an unhealthy competition,” Kurt Knierim, history teacher and Civil War buff, said. “Because of that, the compromises between the North and South became fewer and far between. The real sticking point was the extension of slavery, not slavery itself. It was a clash over the extension of slavery into the West.” The Civil War was a time of momentous change which can be seen through the ratification of the 13th, 14th and 15th Amendments after the war time. The war itself, however, was perhaps not the series

of events that had the largest influence. “(The War) was so horrible,” government teacher Tom List said. “Obviously, the 13th, 14th and 15th are positive legal effects of the war but those amendments have no meaning until the court cases started to come up. With the end of Reconstruction and the corrupt bargain election, Jim Crow takes over—the number of black legislators and voters drops and the Ku Klux Klan mushrooms. The separate but equal doctrine almost makes the gains of the Civil War meaningless.” The horror of the war, however, inspired some to turn a blind eye to the reality that the separate but equal doctrine was, in fact, promoting segregation and inequality. “The Civil War was a radical change politically, socially and economically,” Knierim said. “But rarely do people give up power willingly and in the problem of Reconstruction and in the nasty game of the Civil War, the North won the war and the blacks lost Reconstruction. It laid the foundation for the 13th, 14th and 15th Amendments, but the gains were derailed for political expediency. It took until the 1950s for the movement to re-emerge. The 13th Amendment abolished slavery, the 14th defined citizenship rights and the 15th guaranteed the right to vote. Although these amendments were ratified after the war, they were far from implemented. It wasn’t until cases started coming to the attention of the supreme court that things started to change. In 1938, the Supreme Court took the Missouri Ex rel Gaines case, which dealt with

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Photo Illustration by Tess Halac and Cassa Niedringhaus Senior.1

May 13,

Quoted directly:

“I know the feeling of waking up every morning and seeing a bald head in the mirror. In our society any woman who walks around bald or has a scarf automatically gets sympathy, but my wig kept that from happening. I wanted other woman to be able to escape the unnecessary looks and to be able to feel beautiful, even when life isn’t going your way. - senior Carly Sandell on inspiration behind Hair Raisers Story page 4

by Cassa Niedringhaus Features Editor

History teacher Kurt Knierim brings the material from his textbooks to life. He started the Lobo Mess, a club to bring Civil War history to students, in 2001. It was a way for him to pass on his own passion for history. His passion for history began during an early morning run near the Gettysburg battlefield. “I was out running and the fog was down,” Knierim said. “I just had this sense of the amazing sacrifice these guys had made so we could have a country. I wanted some way, any way, to give back.” And so the idea for Lobo Mess was born. In 2001, Knierim owned a Civil War uniform and wore it to give history presentations to schools. He thought that it would be exciting for students to join him in the presentations. Knierim began saving up money and applying for grants to purchase uniforms and other Civil War objects for student use as a way to allow student participation since the gear and uniforms are often extremely costly. “I thought, ‘High schoolers could do this equally well if not better than I can,’” Knierim said. The club members dress in Civil War attire and give presentations to students of all ages to teach them about the Civil War. They also attend reenactment battles that give them a true sense of the time period. “I had a desire for kids to see history as more than just names and dates to memorize,” Knierim said. “I want them to know that history is alive; it affects them.” Students are inspired to learn more about history due to his passion and enthusiasm for history. “I love Mr. Knierim,” club member and junior Emily Schultheiss said. “He is really nice and supportive. He gets really excited about history. You can see how much fun he has teaching the little kids about the Civil War.” Schultheiss is drawn to the club not only by his enthusiasm but also by the authentic items that he has. “He’s got a really cool 1860s Civil War camera,” she said. “It’s really cool teaching little kids about the camera because I love photography. I teach about the camera and pictures from that time period. I have learned a lot about photographers during the time period.” Junior Tori Rockwood has also given presentations about the camera. She said that the presentations are valuable because they provide excitement for students. “It’s really fun to see how interested they get because they get to see history, not just read it out of a textbook,” she said. Senior Nate Douglas agreed that it is important to bring history to life in order to learn lessons. He also agreed that Knierim brings excitement to history. “He definitely brings passion to the club and knows so much information,” Douglas said. “He knows so much information; he could talk for hours about the Civil War alone. I have learned

Teachers analyze effects of America’s bloodiest war by Geneva Mueller Reporter

School club aims to educate others on Civil War

2011

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Inside Stuff

► Lobos across the nation Pullout, Senior 2-3 ► Freshman breaks into 800 Club Sports, 8 ► What the summer brings Limelight, 6 ► Lobo teachers, staff to retire News, 4

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Rocky Mountain Highlighter

Rocky Mountain Highlighter staff members achieve statewide recognition The Rocky Mountain Highlighter won multiple awards from the Colorado Press Women High School Communication contest and the Colorado High School Press Association Best of Colorado individual contest. Winners from the Colorado Press Woman’s contest are: Tess Halac for 1st place In Single-Page Layout, 2nd place for Sports Story, 2nd and 3rd place for columns and 3rd place for her opinion story; Cassa Niedringhaus won 1st place for her feature story, 2nd place for single-page layout, and an honorable mention for her news story; Mary Willson won 1st place for her graphic design; Ryan Nelson received an honorable mention for his sports photo; Fahey Zink won 3rd place for her sports photo; Ramsey Nicholas won 3rd place for her editorial and for her column; and Chloe Evans won 3rd place for her news story.

Brief

Club from page 1

The Best of Colorado contest winners are: Cassa Niedringhaus won honorable mention for NewsFeature; Geneva Mueller and Tess Halac won 1st place for In-Depth News Coverage; Ramsey Nicholas won honorable mention for Breaking News Coverage; Mary Willson and Tess Halac won an honorable mention for In-Depth Sports Coverage; Geneva Mueller won an honorable mention in Breaking Sports Coverage and 2nd place in Personality Profile; Charlie Anderson won honorable mention in Lifestyle News-Feature; Ramsey Nicholas won 1st place in Staff Editorial; Ryan Nelson won 1st place in Sports Column; Tess Halac won 1st place in General Column; Mary Willson and Chloe Evans won 3rd place in Lifestyle Individual Photo and Caption; Tess Halac and John Califf won 2nd place in Environmental Portrait; and Reanna Nelson won 3rd place in Editorial Cartoon. -Fahey Zink

a lot.” Douglas said that the club is much more than a learning experience about history for

him. He has attended a variety of events and has given numerous presentations. They have taught him about public speaking, acting and self confidence. As this is his second year in the club, he has

the issue of the separate but equal doctrine. There was a student in Missouri who wanted to go to law school, but there wasn’t a black law school in Missouri; there was, however, a white one. In the case, they argued that even if they built a black law school, it still wouldn’t be of the same quality as the white law school. “The Missouri Ex rel Gaines case of 1938 seemed to push the right button—this case forced people to define what equal was,” List said. “Even if the white and black schools were brick for brick the same, they still wouldn’t be equal. This was a great victory.” As time passed throughout history, there have obviously been many quintessential cases that have fought for the equality of all humans under the Constitution of the United

States. But some say the civil rights movement, or even the Civil War, is far from over. “Racism has not gone away, but compared to the horribly racially motivated violence endured during the Civil War, things seem to be getting better,” List said. “I don’t know if I could say that, though, if I were a young black man. My hope for the future is that things will improve.” Knierim also agrees that things are far from over on this front. “I don’t think the civil rights movement ever ended,” Knierim said. “We all need to be refreshed. Every generation needs to be reminded because if they aren’t reminded about equality, it won’t be granted. History is so important; the sacrifices of those in the past cannot be forgotten. It’s a continuum, and it will continue until we have full equality.”

War from page 1

News

May 13, 2011

Students to compete in film festival premier Tonight will be the premier of the first annual Film Festival at Rocky from 6-8 p.m. in the auditorium. For event organizers, Student Council, the past week has been filled with watching and reviewing films, submitted last Monday. Tonight, eight to 12 chosen films will be shown, depending on their length. The event is aimed at highlighting the work of art and film

students, who have been working for the past few weeks to turn in submissions. “I submitted a short film and a couple mini-clips from Video Announcements,” junior Hudson Bloom said. “I’m excited to see what everyone thinks, and I think it’s a great idea to help students who are interested in film.” -Charlie Anderson

DECA students compete, learn at Nationals DECA competed at the Nationals April 29 through May 4 in Orlando, Florida. Seniors Emma Jobson and Thomas Schofield and juniors Ryan McCrary and Landon Shimpa all competed, though none were called back for finals.

Juniors John Ashalintubbi and Alexandria White and sophomore Davis Dailey all participated in the Leadership Development Academy that was run jointly with the tournament. -Ryan McCrary

Freshmen given opportunity to design T-shirts The Class of 2014 needs a class T-shirt. Freshmen have the opportunity to submit design applications to Glenn Gainley for the chance to have their T-shirt created and to rep-

resent their class. Applications can be found in Student Services and are due to Gainley today. Keep up the good work, and continue submitting your applications. -Geneva Mueller

assumed an active leadership role in the club. “I have learned that when you put on the uniform, you are not just playing,” Douglas said. “You actually get to be someone. But

you also learn you can be yourself, not hide yourself away. I get to show myself to other people, not mask what I’m thinking or feeling. I can be myself out in public too.”

Senior Calendar Graduation Countdown Don’t forget to submit pictures for the senior slideshow. Drop them in the Share Folder under Senior Slide Show 2011. May 13: • Graduation and Senior Exit Survey: Every senior is required to fill out two surveys on Naviance. If not completed, your college will not receive your final transcript. The surveys must be completed by May 18, but if you complete them by May 13, you will be entered into a drawing. May 16: • Senior final exams May 17: • Senior final exams May 18: • Seniors last day of classes • 7:30 a.m.: Scholarship Breakfast • 3-5 p.m.: Yearbook Signing Party • 5:30-7 p.m.: Senior Slideshow Reception - buy tickets for $5 in Student Services beforehand May 19: • 8:30 a.m.: Practice for awards convocation in gym • Seniors with a 3.75 or higher will receive cords and stoles at Convocation Practice • 9:30 a.m.: Convocation • 11:30-12:20 p.m.: Turn in check-out sheets in Media Center • 12:30 p.m.: Senior picnic north side of Rocky • 7:00 p.m.: Baccalaureate at Rocky May 20: • 7:30-9:30 a.m.: Commencement practice at Moby Arena May 21: • 8 a.m.: Graduation - Seniors must be there by 7:15 a.m.

Tessting the Waters

Tess Halac

Lessons from a high school senior

It’s the end of the year, and as the weather gets warmer and we all scramble to finish our finals and projects, the time has come for the obligatory, cliche, cheese-ball column. Bear with me. I started to write this column for the seniors of 2011, but I think this is best served for the underclassmen who have one, two, maybe even three years left at this place. So underclassmen, let me break down how to survive high school in three lessons. Lesson No. 1: Get off Facebook and get your work done. During finals week, have your friend change your password so there’s no chance for temptation. Lesson No. 2: Know things will happen to you. Things that mercilessly knock you to the ground and destroy you from the inside out. High school is one of the most testing times in your life, and there will inevitably be the times you simply just want it to end. Hold on to what you know and always believe that better times lay ahead. Trust me, they do. And when they do, take lots of pictures—they will be your most cherished memories. And Lesson No. 3: Find your passion. I don’t mean going to some random weekly club lunch because Mom pressured you into it. No, I mean find something that make your heart beat faster, that makes your skin chill, that makes your soul feel like it’s lighting on fire. For some, you may have already found this certain thing. If you are one of the lucky ones, hold on to it for all it’s worth. Immerse yourself in it and strive for perfection. Make it your top priority and be able to articulate why it’s your passion. Fill yourself with it and understand that any true passions come with failure. There will be times in which enduring seems impossible and you want to tear your hair out. Understand it, learn from it, grow from it. For those who haven’t found you passion, don’t fret-the truest ones come to those who aren’t searching for it. Stay open-minded and refuse to limit or compartmentalize yourself. I am fully confident you will be able to find it eventually, even if it takes years. Those are the most rewarding ones. What I hope all can achieve in their life is the ability and the innate desire to better society. We are all born into it, and it’s our responsibility to care for it. Do your part. You never know when you’re going to be forced to relinquish your grasp on your passion. For me, it’s right now, as you are reading the last RM Highlighter of the 2010-2011 school year. Appreciate every memory—drink them in and ingrain them in your memory, but once they end, don’t hesitate to find more. Though daunting, I know a whole new bundle of opportunities and potential passions will be waiting for me in the fall in Northfield, Minn. Until then, signing off. Happy summer, Rocky. Tess Halac is a senior and the Editorin-Chief of the RM Highlighter.

ditorial

May 13, 2011

Rocky Mountain Highlighter

Where’s the message?

After reading this column, I want you to go home and listen to a variety of songs by The Beatles, Rush, Kansas, Simon and Garfunkel, Green Day, Pink Floyd, or Bob Dylan and compare the lyrics to a more modern song by artists such as Bruno Mars, Travie McCoy, Keri Hilson, Ke$ha, Taio Cruz, Britney Spears, or even the infamous Rebecca Black. The problem I am seeing today in our largely publicized radio musicians is a lack of meaning, depth, or intelligent influence. The deeper into the 21st century we dive, the more true this statement becomes. “Today I don’t feel like doing anything at all,” preaches Bruno Mars from his latest hit: The Lazy Song. I could write an essay expressing why every single statement made in this song is just, plain wrong. Mars continues on by singing, “I’ll be lounging on the couch just chillin’ in my snuggie, click to MTV so they can teach me how to dougie, cause’ in my castle, I’m the freaking man.” Hey Bruno Mars, where’s my castle? The American Dream is dying quickly, and most working people are having good union jobs and comprehensive employer benefits ripped right from their hands. An overtly frustrated working majority is calling out for help, as they are trapped in a time period where raising their families is more difficult for them than for the previous generation and that things will be even worse for their children. By producing a song with even less meaning than Rebecca Black’s, “Friday,” Mars has rolled in the dough for publicly encouraging laziness and repulsive behavior. I’d love to ask Bruno Mars just what kind of message he is attempting to portray to the younger generation of this nation. Laying in bed and watching TV all day long is not only something that you should be ashamed of, but it is something that should be avoided and should absolutely never be promoted. It comes as no shock to me that the American obesity rate is still on the rise when people are being brainwashed by such lyrics. Black’s single, “Friday,” was publicly criticized and humiliated all over the internet for its lack of substance or talent, causing even greater interest to the American public than the Middle-Eastern revolution or the earthquake in Japan. I guarantee you that thousands of people that received a good laugh from “Friday,” turn on their pop music radio station every day without realizing that these songs aren’t any different than Black’s. Not only are the meanings in these over-played pop songs an embarrassment to American culture, but the grammar, similar melodies and over-done repetition make this music almost unbearable to listen to. Including no modulation of key, a repetition of between four and six chord and a catchy melody that is easy to sing enough times so everyone remembers it, modern pop music is the most popular genre in the nation. Keri Hilson attempts to stand up for herself by singing, “All eyes on me when I walk in, no question that this girl’s a ten, don’t hate me cause I’m beautiful.” “Like OMG Mandy, seriously don’t even listen to what that b*tch says about you cause you’re so much prettier than her, like, seriously!” I hear statements like this in my very own high school thrown around all the time. Thank you Keri Hilson for feeding this mind set into teenage girls everywhere. Our generation is rapidly becoming brainwashed into a lavish, MTV lifestyle that unfortunately doesn’t exist for the majority of Americans that live in poverty. Once gas prices go up, every last dime of our paychecks will be used in order to pay for gasoline for as long as we possibly can. The American middle class is gradually seeping into the cracks of poverty. Let’s face it America, the party is almost over. So let’s put our hands up, for playing our songs; it’s a party in the USA. Not. Ramsey Nicholas is a junior and Editorial editor for the RM Highlighter.

Queen of Egypt

Ramsey Nicholas

Reanna Nelson

Lack in educational value

Staff Editorial ► Seniors

should take more valuable classes

enior year is often known as the funniest and easiest year of a high school student’s career. However, those who make their senior schedule too easy will be affected in terms of their work ethic in college. Poudre School District is now starting to realize this, and starting in 2015, new graduation requirements will be set. Currently, a student needs a total of 220 credits to be able to graduate. Most of these credits are attained during freshman, sophomore and junior year. According to the Rocky curriculum guide, the typical classes taken during senior year are art classes, math, additional English credits, civics, and electives. The only class that is a requirement for graduation is a civics class. While many seniors have

The Rocky Mountain Highlighter is published nine times during the school year by the newspaper staff of Rocky Mountain High School/ 1300 W. Swallow Rd./Fort Collins, CO 80526. Contact Rocky Mountain Highlighter staff members at 970-488-7090 or 970-488-7091 for advertising information. Also the Rocky Mountain Highlighter staff is in Room 528, during 4th period. Editor-in-Chief Tess Halac

Features Editor Cassa Niedringhaus

Editorial Editor Ramsey Nicholas

Center In-Depth Editor Mary Willson

Sports Editor Calvin Jouard

National Scholastic Press Association National Critique

Limelight Editor Chloe Evans

Rocky Mountain

Staff Charlie Anderson John Califf Ryan McCrary Trevor Merrill Regan Miller Geneva Mueller Ryan Nelson Fahey Zink

a schedule like the sample schedule in the curriculum guide, some students have become part time students, only having one or two classes. This raises concern about over all work ethic when they go on to college next year. Some people have good reasons to become a part time student because of work during the afternoon or other activities. They have become more mature because of it. However, some waste their afternoons away, which is causing concern. PSD has decided that by 2015, the requirement for graduating students will increase by 20 credits to 240. While this might mean students will have less off periods, this gives the student body a chance to take more valuable classes, which will help them succeed in college and have a

ighlighter Artist Reanna Nelson Contributors Taylor Hitchings Adam Trousil Adviser Stephen Wahlfeldt

good plan for their future. Raising the graduation requirements will be beneficial to incoming seniors. Rocky has provided many classes that will help them prepare themselves for college and for their future. It is more fulfilling for students to take classes than to have off periods. While taking four off periods per year is an award for all the work a student has done over the years, it isn’t necessary for us to take more than that for most situations. Off periods can be a sigh of relief, but students should consider taking more valuable classes while they are receiving a free education instead of having off periods. Students should take advantage of the classes offered here instead of being lazy and, unfortunately, losing their work ethic.

RM Highlighter editorial policy

The Rocky Mountain Highlighter is a student news publication which strives to report school and community events with truth, accuracy, objectivity, and clarity. The RM Highlighter will also comment on issues of interest to its readers. The purposes of this publication are to report the news to the Rocky Mountain High School community, to provide the school community with a public forum for thoughtful discussion and debate, and to provide students on the newspaper staff with practical journalism experience. In order to make the RM Highlighter as professional a publication as possible, important legal and ethical guidelines will be followed. Senate Bill 90-99, enacted by the Colorado General Assembly during the 1990 legislative session, declares that “students of the public schools shall have the right to exercise freedom of speech and the press.” (Colo. Rev. Stat. Sec. 22-1-120) We, the staff of the RM Highlighter, are prohibited by law from publishing certain materials. We will respect these laws. No material which is libelous, encourages illegal acts, or causes material and substantial disruption to school activities will be published. Expressions which are obscene will not be printed. Profanity will not be printed unless it is considered absolutely necessary by the RM Highlighter editorial board to express the views of the writer or quoted person. Expression which is false “as to any person who is not a public figure or involved in a matter of public concern” will not be printed. “Expressions which are in violation of lawful school regulations designed to control gangs” will not be printed. In the event of a potential controversial item, the editorial board —consisting of all the editors, the advertising manager, and the adviser —will meet to discuss the merits of the item and then decide whether or not to print the item. Coverage of deaths which occur within the Rocky community will be carefully considered by the editorial board. Natural or accidental deaths will be reported for clarifications of death and will contain a memorial. Except in extreme circumstances, suicides will not be covered to reduce glorification of such acts. In general, the RM Highlighter observes the guidelines presented in the “Code of Ethics” of the Society of Pro-

Pacemaker Winner-2010; All-American, 4 Marks of Distinction-2010; Pacemaker Finalist-2009; All-American, 4 Mark of Distinction-2009; All-American Hall of Fame Induction-2008; AllAmerican, 5 Marks of Distinction-2008; Pacemaker Finalist-2007; All-American, 4 Marks of Distinction-2007; Pacemaker Winner-2006; All-American, 5 Marks of Distinction-2006; All-American, 4 Marks of Distinction-2005; All-American, 4 Marks of Distinction-2004; All-American, 5 Marks of Distinction-2003; All-American, 4 Marks of Distinction-2002; All-American, 5 Marks of Distinction-2001; All-American, 4 Marks of Distinction-2000; All-American, 4 Marks of Distinction-1999.

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fessional Journalists. The RM Highlighter will not allow source review prior to publication, unless there is a clarification issue. Source anonymity will be granted only after careful consideration by the editor, with the editor reserving the right to make the final decision. Staff editorials shall be presented logically and will represent the views of the majority of the staff. Editorial criticism, of either individuals or groups, will be based on fact and will be constructive. Guest editorial space, the “Open Forum,” is available to anyone in the Rocky community, including students, parents, faculty, and administrators. Anyone interested in writing in the “Open Forum” should contact the editor-in-chief or the adviser, Stephen Wahlfeldt. Letters to the editor are welcome. They should be signed, and a home phone number should be included. The writer’s name may be withheld upon request, provided the editor agrees that the reasons for withholding a name are valid and compelling. Try to limit letters to 300 words and place them in one of the “Letters to the Editor” boxes, located in the Media Center and the Main Office, or give them to a RM Highlighter staff member, RM Highlighter adviser Stephen Wahlfeldt, or drop them by the RM Highlighter room, Room 528, during 4th period. Letters may also be mailed to the Rocky Mountain Highlighter, Rocky Mountain High School, 1300 W. Swallow Rd., Fort Collins, CO 80526. To talk with anyone on the RM Highlighter staff, phone (970) 488-7090. Columnists express their own views and not necessarily those of the RM Highlighter staff. No expression made by students of the Rocky Mountain Highlighter shall be considered an expression of school board or Rocky Mountain High School policy. Furthermore, Poudre School District and its employees are immune from any civil or criminal action based on any expression made or published by the students. All advertisement is welcome. To place an ad, contact RM Highlighter advertising managers at (970) 488-7091. The RM Highlighter, however, reserves the right to refuse advertising which the staff considers inappropriate for our audience. The RM Highlighter is a member of the ASNE/MCT Campus High School Newspaper Service, and some material is courtesy of that service. The Rocky Mountain Highlighter reserves the right to edit anything it publishes. CHSPA Newspaper Sweepstakes

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Rocky Mountain Highlighter

eatures

May 13, 2011

The Will to Wonder Mary Willson

Find your purpose

The eye sees everything for the first time upside down, until our brain decides to let us see it the right way and flips the image around for our minds to grasp— we only see our world in the way human existence has been programmed to. There are a few ways to escape this forceful vision of the world that is upon us. The first is art. The second is words. And the third is thought. I have learned throughout this unexplainable journey also known as high school that the mind has true power. The growth that happens as we become “adults,” and make the mold of who we are and who we will become is the most wonderful part of high school. Out of this undeniable fact that I, and all of you, have changed in the last 631ish days spent within the walls of Rocky, I have learned a few lessons I will take with me. Lesson No. 1: Never let anyone sway who you are; stay true to yourself. Be involved with what you want and be strong within your choice. Make sacrifices for it, because this is a reminder of where your priorities stand. Passions should come first. Get the piercings you want, for it is your body, your choice. Hang out with who makes you happy, for what is the point of ANYTHING if you aren’t happy? If it feels right in life, go with it. Be who you truly are. Lesson No. 2: Make the most of every day, every person, and every resource. This is a time when (most of ) you don’t have huge responsibilities. Enjoy your freedom. Go out everyday, take risks, go on adventures, and live up the time you have. Down the road, you don’t want to see your kids in high school while you remember how much you hated it. Don’t hate high school; enjoy it while you are here. Last and final lesson: Learn everything you can; grow and be the best person you can be. Set yourself up for success in the real world. Now, I am not talking about taking all AP classes or reading 100 books a week; I am talking about who you are, the raw you. Be nice to the people you see, love courageously, and be a good person. If you are a good person, I whole heartily believe life will be taken care of for you. So, let’s review: be yourself, take advantage of life, and be a good person. I think for relativity’s sake, I will throw in one more: It’s okay to be cliché sometimes. Whether you have two more years or a mere few days left in this adventure, remember that you are the only one in control of how you see the world and how you live. You already see everything for the first time upside down, so why not flip it in other directions and see other points of view? My whole purpose in writing a column is giving others the chance to see a different mind. For lessons I have learned to see through others in my high school experience, I thank the entire RM Highlighter staff, and most importantly Waff, Chloe, Tess, and Ramsey. Now, go see your world.

Mary Willson is a senior and Center In-Depth editor for the RM Highlighter.

A hair raising event

School raises hair, awareness, spirit by Mary Willson Center-In-Depth Editor

Twenty thousand, two hundred fifty inches; 1,687 feet; or 1/3 of a mile. It doesn’t matter how it is measured, a lot of locks came from the 3rd annual Hair Raiser. On Sunday, May 1, Rocky was transformed into a salon with over 15 salons, 28 stylists, 60 volunteers and a whole lot of hair. The goal of the day was to raise 20,000 inches, which was passed by 250 inches. “Lots of people want to share their stories, and talk about what brought them to Hair Raiser,” Jessica Davidson, junior class president and Hair Raiser organizer, said. “For some, it’s just wanting a new haircut. For others, it’s the fact that they saw their own parent or loved one wearing wigs and felt compelled to contribute in some way.” And contributing is what they truly do. Every inch of hair raised goes to the Cancer Center of the Rockies where it is then used for wigs for people who their hair, most often due to cancer. “I know the feeling of waking up every morning and seeing a bald head in the mirror,” senior Carly Sandell said. She battled cancer her sophomore year. “I know how much it sucks to see the look on peoples’ faces when they see a bald woman. In our society, any woman who walks around bald or has a scarf automatically gets sympathy, but my wig kept that from happening. I wanted other women to be able to escape the unnecessary looks and to be able to feel beautiful even when life isn’t going your way.” Men and woman alike came out and gave what they could for the event. The minimum number of inches one needed to donate was eight inches. The hair was gathered into ponytails,

Mary Willson and Cassa Niedringhaus

Parting with their hair: Freshman Jacque Rickett (top), sophomore Jourdan Hersch (middle) and senior Jordyn Zuniga (bottom) react as they donate their hair. This year, the school hosted the 3rd annual Hair Raiser event and brought in over 20,000 inches of hair which will now be made into wigs for people who have lost their hair due cancer or other medical conditions.

cut and measured. The stylists then gave the donors a new hairstyle. As the event was coming to a close, organizers were afraid that they wouldn’t meet the initial goal of 20,000 inches. Then a surprise donation brought the event to an exciting end. “After we announced the 18,840 inches, Great Clips walked in with a huge box of hair,” Davidson said. “On the side of the box was written ‘1,390 inches.’ I saw that box and just started screaming ‘Oh my gosh, I can’t believe it!’ I burst out crying and laughing all at the same time. It was a rush of emotions and such humbling gratitude that we made our goal, and would be able to make that many more wigs. I can honestly say that was one of the most magical moments of my life, all because people decided to part with their hair. I still can’t get

over it, and I’ve thought about that moment frequently since.” The event has truly gained in impact this year and last, as the routine has been established and the student organizers have learned how to run the event. “This year organizationally was much easier, so we were able to focus more on what was actually happening in an emotional sense,” Davidson added. “The format for the event was pretty much the same from year to year though. And other than adding another student, Brennan O’Grady, to our team, we kept what worked. As students, and Rocky as a whole, we had a lot more input and work this year. We weren’t just worker bees, we were truly coordinators.” The event will hopefully keep growing even as leadership changes and format differs. Next year, the event will be moved in

order to keep it fresh and allow a change leadership. “It is tentatively being held at Fossil Ridge next year,” Sandell said. “So, we can keep it in the district but I hope that someday it can be an event all over Northern Colorado. That is my biggest goal for the future of the event.” Over 1/3 of a mile in hair has the power to make a great impact. It can help someone immensely in their emotional and physical recovery from cancer. “If you haven’t come out to see the event yet, or been involved in previous years, then you should highly consider coming next year because it will truly change your point of view on community service,” junior and organizer Connor Woodruff-Dube said. “And how just a little act of kindness can mean the world to somebody.”

Gjerde to say goodbye

Leaving a legacy: Dean of Students Jim Gjerde (left) spends some time cleaning up the lunch room and talking to senior Tyler Padia. After 24 years at the school, Gjerde has decided it is his time to retire.

by Ramsey Nicholas Editorial Editor

Ramsey Nicholas

Whether they graduated back in 1987 or in 2011, current students and alumni all share something in common: Jim Gjerde. A long-time member of the staff, Gjerde, Dean of Students, has now come to the end of his 24-year term at the school. He started as the Campus Monitor

and his position soon grew into the Dean of Students, holding responsibility for the physical plant. “I have been able to watch Rocky grow from a three building complex to one large building,” Gjerde said. “There have been two different major remodels in years that I have Jump to TOXIN, page 5

Senior Pullout

May 13, 2011

Let your

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Rocky Mountain Highlighter

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Congratulations Class of 2011! Adams-Aiken-Albinana-Aldhamari-Ambriz-Amedee-Amidon-Anderson-Anson-Anstett-Anthony-Aragon-Arnold-Auer-Bailey-Baird-Bancroft-Barajas-Baratta-Barrrett-BartonBates-Baum-Beagan-Beard-Beauchamp-Beck-Beddoe-Behm-Bell-Bestgen-Bingamen-Bishop-Blakemore-Blumenshine-Bolander-Bolin-Bonk-Bonner-Booker-Borchert-BorerBoyce-Bracht-Bradshaw-Braley-Brantner-Braun-Brian-Brinks-Brock-Bronsert-Bruemmer-Burback-Burns-Bussey-Caddoo-Califf-Calvillo-Campbell-Cannon-Caplett-CarlsonCarnahan-Caskey-Cathcart-Cathey-Chaney-Chase-Chavez-ChavezRivera-Chipp-Choi-Christgau-Christian-Christofanelli-Cobb-Coggins-Cohen-Collins-Conly-Cook-CostaCoufal-Cravens-Creech-Critchfield-Cross-Croteau-Crownover-Cummings-Curry-Czaplewski-Dalton-Dalton-Dalton-Darling-David-Davis-Davison-delaTorre-Deeney-DeFelice-DeLeon-Denison-Devore-DeVries-DeWeese-Diaz-Dillon-DiPalma-Dittman-Douglas-Drager-Duggan-DuHadway-Duke-Duran-Dwyer-Eads-Eckas-Eden-EdgmonEkblad-Ela-Eldeiry-Ellendorff-Ellis-Elwell-Emerson-Emery-Emmerich-Erickson-Estrada-Evans-Ewan-Fagan-Felix-Fenn-Ferguson-Ferkiss-Fichter-Field-Fisher-FleischmannFleming-Flores-Ford-Foreman-Fossoy-FountainFox-Willman-Franek-Frank-Fredal-Frye-Galvan-Garcia-Garner-Geesey-Gendron-Georg-Geppert-Gertig-Gilbert-Gillepsie-Gillete-Giuliano-Givans-Glass-Goggin-Gomez-Good-Gooden-Gray-Grebb-Greiner-Guadarrama-Guerrero-GuzmanMadrigal-Haaland-Habel-Hain-Halac-Hales-HammondHampton-Hanawalt-Hans-Hansen-Hanson-Hardie-Hardin-Harmon-Harris-Harrison-Hartzheim-Hash-Hassani-Hassman-Hatch-Hayes-Heiney-Henderson-Hendrie-Heredia-Hernandez-Hester-Highman-Hisam-Hitchings-Hite-Holst-Hoppal-Hopper-Hottinger-Howard-Hoy-Hubert-Hughes-Hulings-Hummel-Hunter-Hurt-Huxell-HuylerHyland-Jacobsen-Jauken-Jobson-John-Johnson-Jones-Jordan-Kalinay-Kane-Kelley-Kengott-Kildahl-Smith-Kim-Kingham-Kinney-Kinnison-Kitchell-Knittle-Koehn-KovachKreager-Kreisher-Kuck-Kueneman-Kyle-Lacerte-Lacey-Lachelt-Lagoni-Lain-Lamb-Larson-Laut-Laybourn-Lee-Leenerts-Lemanski-Leonard-Lesage-Bethurum-Lewis-Lilly-Linnane-Llamas-Long-Lopes-Lopez-Lorenz-Lotz-Lucas-Lujan-Lukens-Lunas-Lynch-Macoubrie-Maday-Magill-Maiden-Mares-Marquez-Marrujo-Marsden-Martin-Martinez-Marvin-Mathis-Mauch-Mayer-McCormick-McDade-McDonald-McElwain-McFall-McGregor-McKee-McLaughlin-McMillan-McVeigh-McWhorter-Mehaffey-Merrill-MichieliMidland-Miller-Minardi-Mitchell-Mogorit-Mohr-Moritz-MoroLopez-Morse-Mueller-Muffly-Murphy-Musante-Myers-Napelbaum-Nash-Nelson-Nemitz-Neuhaus-Nicholas-Nielsen-Nordyke-Norman-Oakland-Oberoi-Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Donnell-Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Neil-Ornelas-Ortivez-Stracha-Pace-Padia-Palmer-Parker-Paul-Pauna-Peel-Petersen-Pettinger-Petty-PintauroPlant-PonceRegalado-Porter-Prasuhn-Prescott-Prewett-Provencio-Pundt-Quimbo-Radtke-Ramos-Ramsey-Randall-Reed-Rencher-Reyes-Richardson-Robbins-Roberts-Robinson-Robuck-Rodriguez-Rogers-Roybal-Rue-Rumney-Rupp-Salas-Sanchez-Sandell-Sanders-Santos-Schadegg-Schild-Schlager-Schnell-Schofield-Schueler-Scruggs-SearockSeefeld-Selby-Seligmann-Serna-Seward-Sholander-Shorma-Slevin-Slown-Smailes-Smeltz-Smith-Snelling-Snyder-Sorenson-Speer-Spotton-Spraker-Springer-Spurlock-StackStarr-Steinmark-Stephenson-Steward-Stoddard-Stouffer-Stowell-Stransky-Sullivan-Sumearll-Sumner-Sutton-Tallman-Taylor-Tejada-Templar-Temple-Terry-Thomas-Thompson-Throckmorton-Tindle-Todd-Toliver-Tonn-Towne-Traufield-Travers-Trousil-Truesdell-Tryels-Turman-Tyree-Udolf-Umbreit-Valdez-Vanagunas-Vanhook-Vanvorous-Varela Madrigal-Vaske-Vaughn-Viert-Wagner-Walrond-Watkinson-Watson-Wayman-Weant-Weatherwax-Weaver-Wegher-Weibel-Welch-West-Westhuis-White-Wick-Wiens-Wierbilis-Willard-Williams-Willson-Wilson-Winchester-Winkelman-Winterbottom-Wolfe-Yarbrough-Young-Yunker-Zamarron-Zawada-Zeidler-ZepedaBenavides-Zetterquist-Zilavy-Zink-Zuniga

2.Senior

May 13, 2011

Rocky Mountain Highlighter

Senior.3

enior pullout

The best.... and the worst of Rocky

Rockinâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; all across the nation

Worst place to be awkwardly standing alone:

Where graduating seniors will be in life after Rocky

Gonzaga University Hayley Bancroft Washington State University Ryan Nelson

Montana State University Luke Howard Nicki Duggan

Western Washington Jennifer Erickson Mary Ellis

The commons

St. Olaf Tess Halac Emma Jobsen

University of Oregon Craig Arnold

University of Rochester Montse Zepeda

St. Marys Kaylee Sullivan

Rochester Institute of Tech. Elisabeth Lachelt

Lewis and Clark Ryan Kane

Azusa Pacific Taylor Zetterquist

University of Wyoming Abby Huelyer Jake Summerall Claire Starr Angela Neuhaus Chelsea Shaddegg Jason Mitchell Cody Hash Tyler Prewitt Mark Umbriet Trey Weatherwax Connor Zink

University of Nevada Nicole Emmerich Brenden Georg

Pepperdine University Malibu Ryan Palmer

CSN Community College Dillon McGregor

Biola University Gabby de la Torre

UNLV Kelsey Holst

University of San Diego Katie Laybourn

Union College Syracuse University Spencer Ramsey Nate Baratta Ithaca College Parsons Andrew Harrison Nicole Grebb Alfred University Michelle Lotz

Coe College Rachel Kingham College of St. Mary Briana Sumner

Aurora University Karley Beddoe Peyton Stouffer Loyola Chicago Sarah Aiken

Fort Hays Taylor Mares

Utah State Skyler Caldwell

University of Kansas Jami Vaughn Northern Arizona University, Flagstaff Sarah Hite Jack Barton Mary Willson Carly Sandell

Kansas State University Bryan Hunter Amelia Eads New Mexico Highlands University Claire Hoy

Paradise Valley Community College Valentina Pauna

Ali Ellendorf Annalis Norman Ariel Bingaman Ashley Ambriz Aubrey Davis Blaine Lemanski Bre Rupp Brynn Givans Byron Haaland Cale Muffly Casey John Ceily Geppert Chet Mogorit Chris Willard Christian Smailes Cody Boller Dakota Collins David Sorenson Diego Felix Delani Miller

Devon Weatherwax Devyn Robuck Eryn Hummel Gabrielle Smith Geneva Mueller Hannah Lacerte Heath Arnold Jacki Emerson Jessica Johnson Joe Frye John Behm Justin Frank Justin Schnell Kaitlind Bestgen Kara Spotton Kayla Tonn Kenyan Kreisher Kirk Williams Kristi Anson Laina Trousil Lauren Provencio Lindy Gillette Lucia Albinana Lyndsay Provencio

Future Buffs Andrew Gendron Auburn Emery Brandon Michieli Brian Lamb Briana Conly Bryce Adams Chloe Evans David Ferkiss David Johnson Grace Sanders Hayden Brian James Duke

Jeff Margolf Jeff Randall Karl Kim Mark Travers Max Wagner Nikki Mayer Paige Radtke Rhett Cross Tara Kengott Trevor Merrill Troy Hayes

Purdue University Bryce Geesey Valparasio University Braden Nelson

College of Wooster Sam Field Ohio Academy of Paul Mitchell Nicole Lazarowicz

Missouri State Chris Bonk Cottey College Rebbeca Neilsen

Oklahoma Christian Sean Bolin Charleston Southern Sarah Braley

In-State CSU Pueblo Brode McDonald

Addam Mitchell Allison Giuliano Anna Napelbaum Aric Vanagunas Ashley Chavez AshLynne Lain Ashtyn Miller Brenda Watson Brian Fleischman Brittni Knittle Calvin Hyland Christina Fischer

Military

Navy Micha Hope Air Force Dustin Worrell Army Chris Willard Nikki Foreman

UNC Greeley Brinton Bailey Caileigh Glass Courtney Lorenz Eric Ferguson Gabby Zeidler Jess Amedee Katie Peterson Kaylee Coggins Marshall Udolf Matthias Steward Renn Lo Ronja Arndt Sarah Carlson Mesa State,

Colton Deeney Courtney Lewis Daniel Galvan Erika Estrada Evan Mckee Haley Mohr Heather Robbins Ian Hendrie Ian Roberts Ish Heredia Jake Mohr Jake Ross

James Ortivez Jamieson Pace Jordan Christgau Josiah Barrett Kalyn Critchfield Katelyn Robbins Katie Cravens Kristen Santos Lanny Reed Michael Oakland Michelle Bracht Morgan Drager

Best place for lunch:

Cafe Mexicali Worst Lunchtime driving habit:

Clogging lanes while waiting for friends Best way to spend your off period:

University of Miami Kaia Lagoni

FRCC

McDaniel College Alex Creech American University Kendal Jones

Marshall Alyssa Cathey

Texas A&M Amanda Reyes

Marines Deanne Pundt Jake Mogorit Nate Douglas Luke Dillion Chrise Morse Michael Weant

Bentley University Andrew Fenn

KEAN University Allie Dennison Towson University Kelly Fagan

Abilene Christian Kiersten Eden

Majed Aldhamari Mariah Thompson Matt Evans Matt Pintauro Megan Frank Meghan Braun Michael Habel Michael Hoppal Mike Auer Molly Mogorit Morgan Myers Nicki Kalinay Nicole Koehn Nicole Rue Nicole Sutton Rachel Nash Samantha Beck Sean Magill Shayla Peel Tj Leonard Vanesa Smith Zaid Hassani

UMass Amherst Ricki Cohen

Gettysburg College Katy Walrond

University of Oklahoma Erika Cummings

Arizona State University James Hester Stacy Ewan Kayla Laut Sammy Boyce

Future Rams Aaron Hubert

Iowa State Danielle Caskey

Northeastern Taylor Huxell

St. Lawrence Tim Kelly

Hillsdale College Kasey Darling

Brigham Young University Kadie Kovach Jessica Davis

Humboldt University Tiana Cannon

University of Vermont Ethan Kitchell

Valerie Diaz

Grand Junction Erika Musante Katie Highman Kelsey Carnahan Marshall Anderson Mike Guerrero Taylor Bates

Aims Community Col lege, Denver Tyler Padia Kyle Dalton Adams State, Alamosa Matt Anderson

School of Mines, Golden Brad Burback Anna Borchert Connor McDonald Jed Braun Kapri McMillan Taylor Baird Zack Gertig Steven Steinmark

Northeastern Junior, Sterling Chelsea Blumenshine

Community College, Denver

Nick Blakemore Niles Cannon Paige Hisam Rebekah Crownover Sam Hain Shane Hartzhiem Shawna Stowell Stephanie Smeltz Steven Brock Taylor Dittman Veronica Hermosillo

Other

Breanna Welch Collin Bradshaw Erik Costa- Moving to Brazil Josh Duran Nate Fountain- Working Shelby Mathis- Moving to Europe Taylor Wright Tayor Elwell Kevin Dwyer Tyler Wiens Kalli Davis Nick Jones Sarah Pettinger Colorado Film School Andrew Eckas Ian Maday Colorado Mountain College Kelsey Wayman Hair Dynamics Kayla Zawada

Fort Lewis, Durango Brittany White

Otero Junior College Josh Johnson

University of Denver Emillie Norman Jessica Hitchings

Northwestern Commu nity College Molly Long

International

University of British Columbia Jackie Baum Tel Aviv University Mikaela Dalton *Results are from the Facebook group, and senior survey.

sleeping

Worst thing to see in the hallway:

Excessive PDA Best school activity:

Playing sports/attending sporting events Worst movie to come out during high school:

The Twilight Saga Best teacher:

Cox, Ross (1st) Pfeifer, Smailes (2nd) Dukart, Dyer (3rd)

Best Class: Page by Mary Willson Survey organization by Chloe Evans

Adventure PE

2.Senior

May 13, 2011

Rocky Mountain Highlighter

Senior.3

enior pullout

The best.... and the worst of Rocky

Rockinâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; all across the nation

Worst place to be awkwardly standing alone:

Where graduating seniors will be in life after Rocky

Gonzaga University Hayley Bancroft Washington State University Ryan Nelson

Montana State University Luke Howard Nicki Duggan

Western Washington Jennifer Erickson Mary Ellis

The commons

St. Olaf Tess Halac Emma Jobsen

University of Oregon Craig Arnold

University of Rochester Montse Zepeda

St. Marys Kaylee Sullivan

Rochester Institute of Tech. Elisabeth Lachelt

Lewis and Clark Ryan Kane

Azusa Pacific Taylor Zetterquist

University of Wyoming Abby Huelyer Jake Summerall Claire Starr Angela Neuhaus Chelsea Shaddegg Jason Mitchell Cody Hash Tyler Prewitt Mark Umbriet Trey Weatherwax Connor Zink

University of Nevada Nicole Emmerich Brenden Georg

Pepperdine University Malibu Ryan Palmer

CSN Community College Dillon McGregor

Biola University Gabby de la Torre

UNLV Kelsey Holst

University of San Diego Katie Laybourn

Union College Syracuse University Spencer Ramsey Nate Baratta Ithaca College Parsons Andrew Harrison Nicole Grebb Alfred University Michelle Lotz

Coe College Rachel Kingham College of St. Mary Briana Sumner

Aurora University Karley Beddoe Peyton Stouffer Loyola Chicago Sarah Aiken

Fort Hays Taylor Mares

Utah State Skyler Caldwell

University of Kansas Jami Vaughn Northern Arizona University, Flagstaff Sarah Hite Jack Barton Mary Willson Carly Sandell

Kansas State University Bryan Hunter Amelia Eads New Mexico Highlands University Claire Hoy

Paradise Valley Community College Valentina Pauna

Future Buffs Andrew Gendron Auburn Emery Brandon Michieli Brian Lamb Briana Conly Bryce Adams Chloe Evans David Ferkiss David Johnson Grace Sanders Hayden Brian James Duke

Jeff Margolf Jeff Randall Karl Kim Mark Travers Max Wagner Nikki Mayer Paige Radtke Rhett Cross Tara Kengott Trevor Merrill Troy Hayes

Purdue University Bryce Geesey Valparasio University Braden Nelson

College of Wooster Sam Field Ohio Academy of Paul Mitchell Nicole Lazarowicz

Missouri State Chris Bonk Cottey College Rebbeca Neilsen

Oklahoma Christian Sean Bolin Charleston Southern Sarah Braley

In-State CSU Pueblo Brode McDonald

Addam Mitchell Allison Giuliano Anna Napelbaum Aric Vanagunas Ashley Chavez AshLynne Lain Ashtyn Miller Brenda Watson Brian Fleischman Brittni Knittle Calvin Hyland Christina Fischer

Military

Navy Micha Hope Air Force Dustin Worrell Army Chris Willard Nikki Foreman

Colton Deeney Courtney Lewis Daniel Galvan Erika Estrada Evan Mckee Haley Mohr Heather Robbins Ian Hendrie Ian Roberts Ish Heredia Jake Mohr Jake Ross

James Ortivez Jamieson Pace Jordan Christgau Josiah Barrett Kalyn Critchfield Katelyn Robbins Katie Cravens Kristen Santos Lanny Reed Michael Oakland Michelle Bracht Morgan Drager

Best place for lunch:

Cafe Mexicali Worst Lunchtime driving habit:

Clogging lanes while waiting for friends Best way to spend your off period:

University of Miami Kaia Lagoni

FRCC

McDaniel College Alex Creech American University Kendal Jones

Marshall Alyssa Cathey

Texas A&M Amanda Reyes

Marines Deanne Pundt Jake Mogorit Nate Douglas Luke Dillion Chrise Morse Michael Weant

Bentley University Andrew Fenn

KEAN University Allie Dennison Towson University Kelly Fagan

Abilene Christian Kiersten Eden

UMass Amherst Ricki Cohen

Gettysburg College Katy Walrond

University of Oklahoma Erika Cummings

Arizona State University James Hester Stacy Ewan Kayla Laut Sammy Boyce

Future Rams Aaron Hubert

Iowa State Danielle Caskey

Northeastern Taylor Huxell

St. Lawrence Tim Kelly

Hillsdale College Kasey Darling

Brigham Young University Kadie Kovach Jessica Davis

Humboldt University Tiana Cannon

University of Vermont Ethan Kitchell

Valerie Diaz

Grand Junction Erika Musante Katie Highman Kelsey Carnahan Marshall Anderson Mike Guerrero Taylor Bates

Aims Community Col lege, Denver Tyler Padia Kyle Dalton Adams State, Alamosa Matt Anderson

School of Mines, Golden Brad Burback Anna Borchert Connor McDonald Jed Braun Kapri McMillan Taylor Baird Zack Gertig Steven Steinmark

Northeastern Junior, Sterling Chelsea Blumenshine

Community College, Denver

Nick Blakemore Niles Cannon Paige Hisam Rebekah Crownover Sam Hain Shane Hartzhiem Shawna Stowell Stephanie Smeltz Steven Brock Taylor Dittman Veronica Hermosillo

Other

Fort Lewis, Durango Brittany White

Otero Junior College Josh Johnson

University of Denver Emillie Norman Jessica Hitchings

Northwestern Commu nity College Molly Long

International

University of British Columbia Jackie Baum Tel Aviv University Mikaela Dalton *Results are from the Facebook group, and senior survey.

sleeping

Worst thing to see in the hallway:

Excessive PDA Best school activity:

Playing sports/attending sporting events Worst movie to come out during high school:

The Twilight Saga Best teacher:

Cox, Ross (1st) Pfeifer, Smailes (2nd) Dukart, Dyer (3rd)

Best Class: Page by Mary Willson Survey organization by Chloe Evans

Adventure PE

4.Senior

Rocky Mountain Highlighter

senior pullout

May 13, 2011

Most

Write a Pulitzer Prize winning book.... E ...Or a trashy romance novel m C h l o e

i l y H a t c h

E v a n s

Break a world record for sports.... V ... Or for an eating competition E a l P a u n a

t h a n K i t c h e l l

To be president... ... In a movie

To make a masterpiece...

K a s e y

J a c k

D a r l i n g

B a r t o n

President

... Using paint-by-numbers

To be in People Magazine... K a i a L a g o n i

... Or the National Enquirer N a t h a n J o n e s

Photos and page design by Mary Willson

...

L i k e l y

M a r y W i l l

s o n

M o r g a n M e y e r

Features

May 13, 2011

Ruberry to retire

Rocky Mountain Highlighter

Ready to ‘graduate’: Language arts teacher and Adopt-a-Family coordinator Joan Ruberry reads to a class. She has decided that after more than 30 years of teaching, she is ready to ‘graduate’ to the next phase of her life.

Teacher decides to focus on next phase of life by Regan Miller Reporter

After 31 years at the school, language arts teacher Joan Ruberry will be retiring at the end of this year. “Everyday doesn’t feel like the end because I’m still teaching,” Ruberry said. “I’m teaching students to be students; some students need that extra push. As much as I’ve helped them, they’ve helped me.” Ruberry has been involved with school activities along with teaching a multitude of classes. When Ruberry first started at Rocky in 1980, she taught hearing impaired and deaf students. From this point, Ruberry has worked with the special education students, as well as Independent Studies for students with problems passing classes. She also has been a main coordinator for Adopt-a-Family and has helped to make this event as important as it is. She has helped set up and run the event smoothly. “If she wasn’t teaching, she’d be helping (with Adopt-a-Fam-

Gjerde from page B1

been at Rocky and I have seen the student population grow from 1,500 to over 2,000.” In 2005, Gjerde was named Colorado School Resource Officer’s Administrator of the Year and in 1993 he received the Fort Collins Police Service Citizen award as a representative of Rocky. Despite the awards, he feels it is his time to retire. “I will miss the students and watching them grow physically and emotionally,” Gjerde said. “I feel that 15 years as a classroom teacher in the Midwest and 24 years here at Rocky is long enough. It is time to move on when students of parents you had in your office are graduating and moving on.” As the Dean of Students, Gjerde’s job description includes helping to coordinate a safe and secure environment for the high school as well as creating boundaries and consequences for students who need a little extra boost. This could

“” Joan Ruberry, Language Arts Teacher

Of course the students are the biggest part (I’ll miss). They are the reason I come here. It’s hard to say goodbye to a family. Regan Miller

ily),” junior Talee Reece said. “She took it on kind of like her own family.” Ruberry also has been a support for students, helping them achieve their goals in high school, as well as just helping students in general. “She is the coolest, most chill person,” said junior Melody Fels, who is Ruberry’s neighbor and student. “Outside of school she’s a really warm person; inside school she has her game mode

“”

He was such a dedicated staff member. He was a great mentor for us who was always available to answer questions. Russ Stapleton, Dean of Students

mean anything from protecting the physical safety of the building and student body to simply being there for student support. Russ Stapleton and Jan Harrison will be stepping up to take Gjerde’s place as deans. “He brought us a wealth of knowledge and experience,” Stapleton said. “He brings dedication to his job and has a passion for helping students make better choices.” As Stapleton looks forward

The RMHS After Prom Committee would like to thank the following donors for their contributions to a successful event for our Rocky students: Bohemian Foundation PVH Foundation Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks #804 24 Hr Fitness Advanced Energy Airgas Albertsons Anderson Family Applebee’s Armadillo Restaurant Audra Rose Berry Blenz Best Buy Bisetti’s Board Lords

Buffalo Wild Wings Buzz and Bliss Café Mexicali Canino’s Carousel Dinner Theatre Charles Moffet Cabinet Makers Chili’s Chipotle Mexican Grill (College) Chipotle Mexican Grill (Harmony) Chipper Lanes (Horsetooth) Christy Sports Cold Stone Creamery Coloscapes Concrete Corporate Plumbing CSU Bookstore CSU El Centro Student Services CSU Greek Life CSU Off Campus Life CSU Student Legal Services Culver’s Cuppy’s Coffee Denise Morgan Denver Broncos Football Club Destiny Card Forecasting Digital Vellum Photography Domino’s Dr. David Way

on. She’s a strict teacher; she makes her point very clear. But when I need to know something, she’s the person I go to. She knows her stuff, and she’s always willing to help.” Since she has been a teacher for 31 years, Ruberry has decided that it is her turn to “graduate” from teaching. However, she will still be seen around school next year as a part-time consultant. She will be working with teachers on

teaching methods and will still be involved in school activities. One of the activities that Ruberry is particularly excited about is helping with the garden that will be for the special needs students. The garden will help those students grow their own produce. Ruberry will help keep the garden healthy, while working with the students. Ruberry will also be spending more of her free time on her own garden, which is one of her

main hobbies. “Whenever I drive by her house, she’s always working in the garden,” Reece said. Though Ruberry has many things to look forward to after “graduating” from teaching, it will be a bittersweet experience for her. “Of course the students are the biggest part (I’ll miss),” Ruberry said. “They are the reason I come here. It’s hard to say goodbye to a family.”

to his further years with this new position, he realizes that without the help of Gjerde, his transition process may not have been quite as smooth as it turned out to be. “He was such a dedicated staff member,” Stapleton said. “He was a great mentor for us who was always available to answer questions.” Math teacher Derek Widmier is one of multiple Rocky teacher alumni who attended the school with Gjerde as their Dean of Students. Widmier recollected his time in high school and reflected on his experience as a sprinter and Gjerde as the hurdles coach. “He’s always carried out a directive position for enforcing rules,” Widmier said. “People should really take time to get to know him. He’s a really super guy.” Looking forward to a bright future with Rocky, Stapleton and Harrison, along with the rest of the staff, will continue on without the experience, wisdom and good-hearted compa-

ny of Gjerde. As far as Gjerde’s plans go, he has come to the decision that enough is enough, and his hard-earned retirement is only a few weeks away. “My plans are to continue as

an official with cross country and track and field,” Gjerde said. “More importantly, I am a first-time grandpa and I need more time to spoil my grandson.”

Jorgenson Family Foundation Dr. Ed Robison Dr. Rickey E. Felton Dr.’s Schaefer & Kaines Dr. Thomas Pixley Edward Jones Edwards Family Famous Dave’s Five Guys Burgers & Fries Fort Fun Funke Family Goings Orthodontics Gojo Sports Haunted Game Cafe Hot Corner Concepts Hu-Hot Inca Inner Strength Rock Gym Jason’s Deli Jerald & Beth Ludens Jimmy Johns Jim’s Wings JJ’s Corner Store Julie Wallin Kechter/King Family Kilwin’s Chocolates & Ice Cream King Soopers (College)

King Soopers (JFK Pkwy) Krazy Karls Lamar’s Donuts Lark Burger Lighthouse Chiropractic Little Caesar’s Pizza Lynch Family Macaroni Grill Mad Greens Mama Roni’s Pizza McCoy’s Morning Glory Melting Pot Nails by Leslie Newsom Family Nick-N-Willy’s Noodles & Company (College) Noodles & Company (Timberline) Office Depot Old Chicago Orthopedic Center of the Rockies Otter Box Outback Steakhouse Outpost Sunsport Palmer Flowers & Decorating Gallery Palumbo Cleaners Peak Family Dental

Pentico Photography Performance Bike Pizza Hut (Drake/Shields) Princess Paradise Pringle’s Fine Wine and Spirits (non-alcoholic beverages) Prudential Rocky Mountain Realtors PVH Hospitality Department Qdoba Mexican Grill (Drake/ Shields) Raising Cane’s Reader’s Cove & Half Moon Bay Recycled Cycles Red Robin Gourmet Burgers REMAX Advanced Richie’s Car Wash Rick Ney Photography Rio Grande Riverbend Salon & Spa Roberto’s Salsa Runza Safeway Food (Drake/Taft Hill) Schlotzky’s Schrader Oil Company Skillman Photography Sonic

South China Restaurant Spicy Pickle Spooners Spoons Sport About Sport Clips Starbucks (Drake/Shields) Subway (Drake/Taft Hill) Subway (Horsetooth) Taco Johns Target Stores Texas Roadhouse The Egg & I The MACKERS Girls The Wright Life Therapeutic Message Tortilla Marissa’s Trios Salon and Spa Valerie Mauksch Valerie McIntyre Vern’s Place Walmart Distribution Center WalMart North Walmart South Walmart Timnath Walrus Ice Cream Company Whistle Clean Car Wash

Rocky Mountain Highlighter

imelight

May 13, 2011

– e v a W t a e H e h t g n i Rid 1 1 ‘ r a d n e l a Summer C

CMT

May 20: Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides May 26: The Hangover 2 May 27: Kung Fu Panda: The Kaboom of Doom June 3: X-Men: First Class June 10: Judy Moody Super 8 June 17: Green Lantern Mr. Popper’s Penguins June 24: Cars 2 July 1: Transformers 3 Larry Crowne Monte Carlo July 8: The Zookeeper Horrible Bosses July 15: Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 2 Winnie the Pooh July 22: Captain America: The First Avenger Friends with Benefits Aug 3: The Smurfs

MOVIES

CMT

May 31: Death Cab for Cutie- Codes and Key Eddie Vedder- Ukulele Songs My Morning Jacket- Circuital June6: Arctic Monkeys- Suck It and See June 7: All Time Low- Dirty Work June 13: Regina Spektor- Begin To Hope June 14: Black Veil Brides- Set The World On Fire Ziggy Marley- Wild And Free June 20: Keane- Under the Iron Sea June 21: Bon Iver- Bon Iver June 28: David Cook- This Loud Morning July 12: Yes- Fly From Here July 19: 3 Doors Down July 25: Tom Petty- Highway Companion Aug 1: TV On The Radio- Return to Cookie Mountain Aug 15: Christina Aguilera- Back to Basics

C.D.

Top Ten

Worst People to Meet at College:

10. The guy who hits on your mom on Parents Day. 9. The guy who always walks around campus without a shirt. 8. Pete the Pedophile. 7. The girl who pretends to be drunk. 6. The smelly guy who smokes before every class because “it’s cool, bro.”

5. The guy who graduated two years ago and is somehow still here. 4. The guy who quotes Nelly lyrics. 3. The overly competitive guy in recreational sports. 2. The chubby guy who wears skinny jeans. 1. The girl who is super chipper in the morning.

CONCERTS

June 7: Earth, Wind & Fire at Red Rocks June 10: Chris Brown, Pitbull, Lupe Fiasco, Lyod Banks at the Comfort Dental Ampitheater June 15: Mumford and Sons at the Filmore June 16: Mumford and Sons June 18: Bassnectar at Red Rocks Wiz Khalifa at 1st Bank Center June 24-30: Greeley Stampede June 28: Panic! At the Disco at the Ogden July 6: Kenny Chesney,

CMT

by Ryan Nelson and Charlie Anderson

Billy Currington, Uncle Kracker at Red Rocks July 15-16: Global Dance Festival at Red Rocks July 26: Katy Perry at the 1st Bank Center July 28: Train, Maroon 5, Gavin DeGraw at Red Rocks Aug 5: Vans Warped Tour at Invesco Field Aug 12-14: New West Fest Aug 13: Pretty Lights at Red Rocks Aug 17: Goo Goo Dolls, Michelle Branch, Parachute at the 1st Bank Center

We The Kings’ band members enjoy Rocky, Colorado visit Q: How do you like Colorado? A: You guys act like you’re raised by wolves. No, I’m kidA:I love it. The air reminds ding. I love the student body

In an interview with the RM Highlighter We The Kings band members, Travis and Hunter, talk about texting while driving, Rocky’s Lobo mascot and their high school experience.

me like I should be skiing or something.

Q: What would you say to the Lobos?

A: Are you talking about the

Q: How did you get involved with Kiss FM’s No Texting While Driving campaign?

A: It was actually through our

hometown radio station. One of the radio station’s that’s a bigger supporter of the band. We were one of the first bands to start this whole no texting while driving campaign. We don’t really drive a lot though, we’re passengers who text. I think if you’re driving and need to

Chloe Evans

Free concert: Hunter Thomsen (left) and Travis Clark (right) of We The Kings talk to the student audience between songs. They played a five song concert as a reward for Rocky winning Kiss FM’s No Texting While Driving Contest.

text and it’s an emergency you give it to your passenger. We wanted to use our success for the better good and I think this is a good way to save lives.

Q: How does this fit into your schedule?

A: We just got back from our

world tour. But we’ve been sort of off tour. The worst is like we never really left, we just live on the beach (Florida). And we just get involved in this sort of stuff. We have eight hours off

actual animal? ‘Cause that thing is terrifying. I saw the stuffed lobo in the hallway and I swear it had flesh hanging from it’s mouth. I think the blood was a little overdone, but I’d run probably closer to him just to get it over with quicker, I wouldn’t run from it ‘cause it looks like it’d maul me and then all its friends would come and it would do the wolf call or whatever, so obviously I’m scared of Rocky. I don’t know if you should keep the Lobo locked up in a cage.

Q: How about the student body?

of Rocky, I do, I do. I have a lot of love to give. Our high school that we went to was the Hurricanes. I think the Lobos are a way cooler mascot. We played soccer and baseball. Our mascot was Billy Blowhard the hurricane, which we got to vote on. I wanted to change it to Larry the leadership llama. ‘Cause I was in student council just to be able to make decisions. So I drew this llama and it was ridiculous looking and they were like you can’t change the mascots from the 40’s. I thought it would lead kids in a very positive path of leadership. I thought it was a little racy so that’s why the leadership llama was more safe, a little more PG, a little more Finding Nemo. -Chloe Evans

sports

May 13, 2011

Rocky Mountain Highlighter

Baseball looking strong going into playoffs by Ryan Nelson Reporter

Mary Willson

Throw out: Senior catcher Tyler Wiens fields a foul ball in an 11-1 win over Boulder on May 5. Wiens has also performed well at the plate, and holds the highest batting average on the team at .518.

“”

Jess Amedee, senior pitcher and infielder

He does the little things that we miss every day and makes our field one of the best high school fields in the state.

Grounds from page A8

has benefitted from having him around.” Senior Jess Amedee also recognizes that what Strzepek does is vital to the field. “You can tell the difference on every play that you make,” said Amedee, a third baseman and pitcher. “(It helps) getting true hops and limiting the amount of errors that a team can make. “He has made our field incredible looking and easy to play on.” Bullock also has noted the better playing conditions on the field both in games and during practice. For Strzepek, once the home season ends here, he will head to Boston for his internship at historic Fenway Park, the home of the Boston Red Sox. “Getting to work at Fenway is a huge honor,” Strzepek said. “I will get to pull the tarp on when it rains, drag the dirt, and pick up gum on the warning track. It’s not glamorous, but just getting to work where so many notable athletes have played is incredible.” His internship starts May 15, and his work at Rocky will be missed by every player and coach who has enjoyed the improvement of their field conditions due to his care. “He really does a great job with our field,” said Amedee. “He does the little things that we miss every day and makes our field one of the best high school fields in the state.”

Spring Sport LoboLights Boys’ Lacrosse

►RECENTLY: Finished regular season with 11-4 overall record, beat Kent Denver 9-4 to finish off regular season. ►BOTTOM LINE: The team looks to ride this momentum into the playoffs with a No. 4 seed, and to break their Quarterfinal exit curse.

Girls’ Tennis

►RECENTLY: No.1 singles player Cara Cromwell and No. 4 doubles team of Heather Raney and Jocelyn Gentry qualified for state.

800 Club from page A8 numbers. It’s a quantifiable goal; he gets a number in his head and will work until the number is achieved.” Williams is adamant in that though his initial goal is now completed, he will continue to work diligently to complete his ultimate goals—break the squat and bench press records, as well as the overall weight record. The squat record is currently at 430 pounds, the bench press at 405 pounds and the alltime weight at 1,260 pounds. “Finally getting into the 800 Club was empowering,” Williams

Attempting to get five consecutive state titles is no easy task, but the baseball team is ready to take on the 2011 playoffs whole-heartedly. The team has taken seven of the last eight Front Range League championships, the most recent of which coming against Boulder in an 11-1 victory on May 5 to secure the outright league title. While the team last year went into the state playoffs undefeated against in state teams, this year the stakes are higher and the challenge greater as the team heads into the playoffs 14-5 and ranked sixth in Colorado (as of May 7). Team confidence seems to be the only thing holding the team back from truly excelling. “I wish the confidence on this team was higher,” head coach Scott Bullock said. “We need to get the players to believe that they can beat any team in the state. We are just so fragile emotionally.” The team is ready to take on all the challenges that lie ahead of them, including the confidence (or lack thereof ) factor. “I think we all need to step up; no one person is going to win games,” senior infielder and pitcher Jess Amedee said. “It’s a lot more about the team this year.” “All the seniors will need to really step up and lead this team,” Bullock said. “Regardless of their personal role on this year’s team, they all need to step up their game emotionally and lead everyone else mentally.”

►BOTTOM LINE: Expecting strong showing from Cromwell at state, as it is her third year at the varsity level.

Boys’ Swimming/Diving

►RECENTLY: The 200 medley and 200 freestyle relay teams qualified for state (Ryan Brauch, Carl Marvin, Zach Gertig and Jack McCoy). Juniors divers Eric McMillin and Colton Hankins also qualified for state. ►BOTTOM LINE: The team has suffered from small numbers but diving is expected to have a strong showing at Conference Meet tomorrow, May 14 and at the State Meet at EPIC, May 20 and 21.

The seniors have done a good job of leading the team as far as statistics are concerned. As of May 7, senior catcher Tyler Wiens led the team with the best batting average at .518 with 25 RBI. Outfielder Kyle Westhuis was close behind, hitting .492. Wiens was the leader of the team in home runs, hitting four, one of which came with the bases loaded against Collins in their rivarly game under the lights at City Park. The senior pitching crew is no slouch either, as they went into games in May led by Amedee, who has pitched over 36 innings with an ERA of just 4.05. Not far behind, senior Chris Bonk had pitched just under 30 innings with an ERA at just 3.46 and Westhuis has pitched over 19 innings with a mere 3.20 ERA. However, a pitcher’s defense can make or break a game, and with the team fielding percentage being at .939, the defense is arguably the strongest in Colorado. “I wouldn’t say that we have an MVP so far this year,” Amedee said. “We are all just playing pretty good baseball.” The team and coaches know that they will be carried through the playoffs with good at bats and accurate fielding. However, they will always fall back on their camaraderie, teamwork and ability to make the play in clutch moments to make this season a good one. “I think we will go deep in the playoff,” Amedee said. “We have a very solid team when we all show up ready to play.”

Girls’ Lacrosse

Girls’ Soccer

Girls’ Golf

Track and Field

►RECENTLY: 7-8 overall record, beat Smoky Hill 20-16. ►BOTTOM LINE: The team had a rough start, posting a 2-5 record after seven games, but pulled through with marquee wins at the end of the season. ►RECENTLY: Finished 2nd at Front Range League Match on May 3 at Harmony Golf Course. ►BOTTOM LINE: The two Rocky girls on the team, sophomore Connie Davis and freshman Annika Gustafson, will look to step into varsity roles at the end of the season.

►RECENTLY: 11-4-1 overall record and defeated No. 5 Grandview, 1-0, in first-round of state playoffs. ►BOTTOM LINE: The Lady Bo’s success will depend on senior performance throughout the tournament. ►RECENTLY: Both boys and girls placed 6th at the John Martin Invitational. ►BOTTOM LINE: Bryce Adams (100 m), Ethan Karp (field events), Valentina Pauna (pole vault) have all performed well this year and are expected to continue their success at the State Meet, May 19-21.

said. “You’re the only person in your grade that has it, so there’s a sense of superiority. Then it gets back to normal, which helps me to work even harder. My overall goal is to set new squat and bench records, and the overall weight record. If I do that, I’ll be satisfied. I’m always pushing myself. “ Though difficult, coaches have faith in his ability and are ready to support him—something that Williams said played a huge role in his recent successes. “When Dan comes out, he comes to work,” MacKenzie said. “I don’t put anything past Dan. If he wants a record, he’ll work at it.”

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Rocky Mountain Highlighter

May 13, 2011

Keeping the team grounded

Calvin Jouard

Baseball field groundskeeper plays key role in field, team success by Ryan McCrary Reporter Calvin Jouard

Taking care of business: Andrzej Strzepek tends to the field before the Lobo baseball team takes the field against Boulder. Strzepek hoses the dirt on Gabe Pando Park (top), Strzepek picks up the hose afterwards (bottom).

The first impression a team formulates when it arrives at an opponent’s baseball field isn’t how big the other team is or how hard the kid pitching that day is throwing. The first thing they see is the field. Whether it is in pristine or shoddy condition, the field is what sets the tone Sports for any team. If the dirt is hard, the grass is brown and yellow, and the bullpen has no home plate, the opposing team will judge the host team. However, if a player walks onto the field and the grass is mowed, the dirt dragged, the bullpen raked and the baselines straight, respect and nods of the head will be passed out and around. Andrzej Strzepek is the man

Special

responsible for the upkeep of Gabe Pando Park, Rocky’s baseball field. Brought on partway through the season, he takes care of everything from the bullpen to the mound on the field. “I started out at Fairview High School, working as the field manager there during my sophomore, junior and senior years,” he said. “Bobby Rainbolt (one of the junior varsity coaches) gave me the opportunity to come over here. I talked with (head coach Scott) Bullock, and he said I could work here.” Bullock talked with Strzepek and agreed to let him come on as the caretaker of the field. “I know the Fairview coach and he said he did a great job and wanted to make it a career,” Bullock said. “Also he said he was doing an internship (later) this summer at

(Boston’s) Fenway (Park), so I thought he was probably pretty serious about it. He showed up one day and asked if he could help.” Since then, Strzepek has been at the field every day, doing a variety of work to keep the field in top shape. “I make sure the lips (area where the field goes from dirt to grass) are set up so that the ball will roll back into play,” Strzepek said. “On things like bunts, where you want the ball to stay fair, the lip needs to be angled so that the ball will roll back in.” Bullock knows how much the field has benefitted from Strzepek’s work. “He loves taking care of the field, he has a passion for it, and he is good at it,” Bullock said. “I am sure the field Jump to GROUNDS, page 7

Freshman athlete lifts way into elite 800 club by Tess Halac Editor-in-Chief

Sports are often deemed a realm in which the sacrifices and stakes are great but the rewards even greater. No one knows this better than freshman and three-sport athlete Dan Williams. Williams is the newest member of the 800 Club, an elite club for those who have lifted a total of 800 pounds through their bench press, hang clean and squat. Being in this club is extremely rewarding, and is a direct testament to the blood, sweat and tears one puts in to accomplish this lofty goal. The significance of making the club as a freshman is particularly significant; coaches estimate that a maximum of 1-2 percent of the freshman class will make it into the club during their first year. “Dan is probably one of the strongest kids in the history of the school,” football and track coach Mike MacKenzie said. Williams first heard of the 800 Club

through his friends when he began summer football workouts. He created the goal almost immediately and finally succeeded with a bench press of 245 pounds, a squat of 365 pounds and a hang clean of 210 pounds, coming to a total of a staggering 820 pounds. Though these numbers are a statement within themselves, coaches maintain that the achievement may speak even more about his character. “Dan definitely has natural ability but also has a personal work ethic that is amazing,” strength and conditioning coach Mike Dyer said. “He has spent time lifting in the weight room this year, and it’s paying off tremendously. For any athlete, getting into the 800 club is very, very rewarding.” Added MacKenzie, “The thing about Dan is that he’s extremely goal-oriented. He works out in the weight room and sees those Jump to 800 CLUB, page 7

Tess Halac

Getting swoll: Freshman Dan Williams tries for his maximum bench press of 245 pounds, and went on to squat 365 pounds and hang clean 210 pounds for a grand total of 820 pounds. Williams is one of very few freshman to have ever gotten into the 800 Club.

ports

The Full Nelson

Ryan Nelson

Thank you My first days of football, I played for the J.A.A. Lions for Coach Levad. Thank you coach Levad; you taught me that the game can only be played with the utmost respect for myself and my coaches and that the game can only be played with love and passion for football. Freshman year, the three man coaching staff was, to say the least, intimidating. It consisted of Coach Kendall, the visor-wearing man who enjoyed yelling at us, Coach MacKenzie, the monster man who could break you in half and Coach Stewart, the former Marine who would run us until he got tired. However, I learned over the years that Coach Kendall was really the guy any of us could go to for a talk (whether it is a serious talk or just one about Jersey Shore). I learned that Coach Mac was just a big teddy bear (but not a teddy bear you would want to mess with). With Coach Stew, I never knew that I could want to quit and try harder all within the same moment, but thanks to Stew, I pushed through the pain and finished four great years of high school football. Thank you Coach Stew, Mac, and Kendall. Throughout the next three years, I came across the greatest coaches ever, and while I would like to thank them all, I don’t have the time or space. Coach Liufau, thank you for all you taught me. I know that the one thing I will always take from your crazy stories and inspirational speeches is to remember where I come from and that my last name is more important than my first. Once a Lobo always a Lobo. Thank you. Coach Dyer, everyday going into practice I always looked forward to your crazy antics during warm-ups. While you chased Brinton around, you always found ways to keep all of us smiling. You continued to make everyday a good one as you again made us all laugh and smile. Thank you for always making my days here fun. Coach Brook, thank you for teaching me more than just the game of football. You taught me respect, teamwork, camaraderie and leadership. I think that because of you, I am a better person. Thank you to my mom and dad as well. You were always there for me through the undefeated seasons and, of course, the less than undefeated seasons. But more than that, thank you for all my opportunities through life. Due to my family, friends and coaches, my outlook on life has changed for the better. Ryan Nelson was a senior tight end on the football team and is a reporter for the RM Highlighter.