ROCKY MOUNTAIN
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Rocky Mountain High School Volume 31, No. 3
on the
calendar Today: Final day to order cap & gowns, 7:15 am to noon. Nov. 13: ParentTeacher conferences 5:30 pm to 8 pm Nov. 22: Girl’s-askguys dance from 7 pm to 11 pm. Nov. 26-28: Thanksgiving break, no school! Dec. 2: Girls basketball @ 7pm in gymnasium
1300 W. Swallow Rd. Fort Collins CO, 80526
District decision surprises many Mandate of problematic PIV sudden; many see it as unnecessary by Erik Pinkston
Editor-in-Chief
year. The district action was surprising because of an abrupt timeframe and a lack of flexibility in PIV access. “We thought that there was a longer implementation time,” Sample said. After leading teachers and administration to believe that individual schools would have the ability to determine the depth of access by the PIV, the district ordered that all schools provide the same information. The decision was made by the district
We have been told all along that we’d have input. I understand (the district’s) point. It’s a huge system to run.
Opinion line of the issue When you think about the reputation of a speedo you usually think of words like crazy, what the and avert your eyes.
COPS AND KIDS:
news a4: Fake gun scare in old town, three students in trouble a4: Students are finding it easier to find jobs in Ft. Collins
opinion a6: Pinnicle Internet Viewer just invades personal space? a7: We’re told of the lobo way, but do we know what it is?
features b1: Americana series continues with country music b2: VanTatenhove happy as a Lobo
entertainment c1: ‘Matrix’ opens, students are excited c1: Whose got the biggest and best burrito in town? c4: 100 years of flight
rocky sports d1: Hazing in sports is becoming serious problem among athletes d1: Gymnastic team wins state
friday, nov. 7
“everything as far as you can see...” from John Denver’s Rocky Mountain High
A Poudre School District decision to activate the Pinnacle Internet Viewer (PIV) on Oct. 21 took Rocky by surprise, according to a memo from Assistant Principal Holly Sample. The district mandated activation of the PIV, a program which allows parents and students to view current grades and missing assignments from a secure website, came after Rocky faculty became aware of the program last
See column, page d1
...the Matrix has you on page c1
-Jennifer Adams, language arts department chair
because of an inability to micro-manage individual PIV programs for each school in the district, principal Tom Lopez said. “We have been told all along that we’d have input,” Language Arts department leader Jennifer Adams said. “I under-
Students with parent cops claim life is no different by Megan Buettgenbach
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AGE-OLD CONFLICT STILL CONTINUES Police, teens try to find mutual understanding
by Melissa Tree
Contributor
Ad Manager
Despite popular belief, growing up with a parent who is a cop is no different than growing up with a “normal” parent. Senior Elissa Larkin even admits that it’s the same when the above statement becomes plural – when both parents are police officers. “They’re like normal parents,” said Larkin whose parents are Fort Collins police officers Mark Larkin and Suzanne Rice. “Their job doesn’t change who they are.” Larkin insits that her life is normal. “People think it’s so different (having parents as cops,” she They’re like continued. normal “Honestly, parents. Their they’re not.” job doesn’t Sophomore change who Avry Neal, who’s they are. father also is a police officer, agrees. -Elissa Larkin, senior “My dad is a detective, but he’s just like everyone else’s parents,” Neal said. Even though “the law” might be closer to home compared to other students, everyday life is not much different. Senior Steve Turney is another student whose father is a cop. Keith Turney currently works for the CSU Police Department, and has been in the field of law enforcement for nearly 20 years. “People always say that it must suck because my dad is a cop,” Turney said. “It doesn’t, though. It more or less just helps me make good decisions.” Added Neal, “Most of the other officers know who I am, so if I messed up, I’d get in trouble really fast.” Although there may be some debate between the generations over the worthiness of certain laws, a healthy respect for societal rules and enforcement remain. “There are certain things that seem unreasonable, such as driving laws,” Larkin said. “But then, what would happen if those weren’t there?” Jump to Parents, page a4
stand (the district’s) point. It’s a huge system to run.” The size of the system provided the district with a significant number of technical problems in the test schools last year. However, the district appears to have fixed a number of problems and
the system is now ready for district wide use, Lopez said. “I think they have gotten all the kinks worked out,” he said. “They were able to itemize most of the problems.” A number of problems were solved by a district decision to remove attendance figures from the website. Still, after the district claimed to have fixed a majority of problems,
JAKE RUBIN
Po’s, pigs, fuzz, and Smurfs. Better known as police or cops. These trained professionals are here to “protect and serve,” but is that the way the police are perceived today by teenagers? In 1789 the first federal law enforcement agency was established to keep order on the streets and enforce the Constitution. Two hundred-and-fourteen years later, a lot has changed, but the main objective still stands. Growing up, many kids have had a positive point of view about cops. They were always the “friendly community officers,” who were there to help whenever a problem arose. “When I was little I was a lot more respectful of the police,” said senior Seth Blue. As he has gotten older, Blue has had a few run-ins with the police and now perceives them differently. “Now that I am older, I don’t really respect them because they are all on power trips; they abuse their privileges,” said Blue. With the media exploiting police brutality, people are thinking twice about how friendly or helpful cops are. “I would really respect cops if I knew they were all doing the right thing and respecting us as well,” senior Kaylee Dumbler said. Cops are trying to change the stereotype that has grown from a few bad seeds. “The stereotype that kids have of police is completely wrong,” said Fort Collins Police Officer Jeff Holpuck. “There are so many ways we help the community and we don’t get the respect and acknowledgement for it.” Student Resource Officer (SRO) Scott Gammon hopes that his daily interaction with students will aleviate prejudice. “It’s easy for students to sterotype cops, and same goes for cops,” he said. “I enjoy the interaction with students.” The SRO program is one of many ways the City of Fort Collins is attempting to encourage a positive relationship between teens and cops.
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The Rocky Mountain Highlighter is published nine times during the school year by the newspaper staff of Rocky Mountain High School 1300 W. Swallow Rd. Ft. Collins, CO 80526. Contact Highlighter staff members at 416-7090 or (970) 416-7091 for advertising information. Also, the Highlighter Staff is in the Highlighter Room, Room 528, during 4th period. Erik Pinkston/Editor-in-Chief Courtney Mohr/Advertising Mgr. Mellissa Tree/Advertising Mgr. Kyle Herman/Features Editor Steve Turney/Sports Editor Joey Murphey/Asst. Sports Editor Vanessa Falgout/News Editor Jake Rubin/Entertainment Editor Sarah Rupert/Art Editor Marlys Merrill/Reporter Kelly Reingardt/Reporter Heather Stevens/Reporter Amy White/Reporter Debra Williams/Reporter Trent Wahlfeldt/Contributor Cassie Bohlmann/Contributor Mike Schneider/Contributor Megan Buettenbach/Contributor Mr. Stephen Wahlfeldt/Adviser
Colorado High School Newspaper Sweepstakes 2nd place - 2003 1st place - 2002 1st place - 2001 2nd place - 1996 1st place - 1992 2nd place - 1991 2nd place - 1990 1st place - 1987
National Scholastic Press Association National Critique All American, 5 Marks of Distinction - 2003 All American, 4 Marks of Distinction - 2002 All American, 5 Marks of Distinction - 2001 All American, 4 Marks of Distinction - 2000 All American, 4 Marks of Distinction - 1999
Columbia Scholastic Press Association National Critique Silver Crown - 2002 Gold Medalist - 2002 Gold Medalist - 2001 Gold Medalist - 2000 Gold Medalist - 1999
Highlighter Editorial Policy The Rocky Mountain Highlighter is a student news publication which strives to report school an community events with truth, accuracy, objectivity and clarity. The Highlighter will also comment on issues of interest to its readers. The purposes of this publication are to report the news to the Rocky Mountain High School community, to provide the school community with a public forum for thoughtful discussion and debate, and to provide students on the newspaper staff with practical journalism experience. Letters to the editor are welcome. They should be signed and a home phone number should be included. The writer’s name may be withheld upon request, provided that the editor agrees the reasons for withholding a name are valid and compelling. Try to limit letters to 300 words and place them in one of the “Letters to the Editor” boxes located in the Media Center and the Main Office or give them to a Highlighter staff member, Highlighter adviser Stephen Wahlfeldt, or drop them by the Highlighter room, Room 528, during 4th period. Columnists express their own views and not necessarily those of the Highlighter staff. No expression made by the students of the Rocky Mountain Highlighter shall be considered an expression of Board or Rocky Mountain High School policy. Furthermore, Poudre School District and its employees are immune from any civil or criminal action based on any expression made or published by the students. The Rocky Mountain Highlighter reserves the right to edit anything it publishes.
friday, nov. 7
opinion
Internet viewer doesn’t solve problems ecently at Rocky, we have become aware that someone is watching us. Big Brother seems to have entered into our midst, where our every assignment, tardy, and test score can be documented and perused by parents. An internet viewer that can be accessed at home was implented district-wide on Oct. 21, causing us to wonder whether or not our school is ready for this unnecessary action. The Issue: When the idea of an internet viewer was first introduced, each school was District’s new Internet given the impression that it would have grade viewer allows the opportunity to decide what parents to information would be featured on the site. access in-progress It was surprising, then, when the system grade reports was district-mandated, with no input from schools and no training for teachers who would be using it. Although some think such a system could be convenient for parents and save time on parent/ teacher phone calls and meetings, it’s intensity renders students helpless to personally discuss school issues with their parents. Many students will be in a college setting in less than a year, where they will be completely Our View: responsible for their own grades and Internet attendance; aren’t these students capable grade viewer of keeping track of their own progress brings too as well as dealing with any much ‘Big Brother’ discrepancies? into school Without a magic virtual gradebook acting as the middleman, communication between parents and students is more essential and encouraged. Is it really necessary to leave everything up to technology, even if that’s not always the best method? Not all students are in need of such a service, and forcing it upon fully capable students is enforcing an undeserved consequence. The viewer seems more like a punishment than a service, although some students will access the viewer to keep close track of their grades and make up any missing assignments. An upon-request format seems more reasonable; it would mean less work for teachers and more consideration for individual students and parents. We understand that the administration had little to no input in regards to the viewer, and they had planned to draw up a more reasonable plan if given the time. The decision by the district, however, was hasty and forced, leaving confused students to deal with the viewer without a chance for questioning and input.
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YOU SAW THE RISE OF THE PIV, NOW HERE COMES THE SEQUEL:
PIV II: THE PARENT INVASION VICTIM
What do you think? ...about the internet viewer It would make students try harder because they know they are being watched by their parents. -Sydnie Overholser, senior
OVERHOLSER
I feel good about it just so they can check up on students. -Katie Kramer, sophomore
KRAMER
I think parents should have access to that information. It’s their parental right to see how their kids are doing in school. -Leah Kapral, student services secretary
KAPRAL
Excuses for underage drinking pointless, irresponsible I have this crazy notion that maybe- just maybe- underage drinking is a bad idea. Every Monday I hear the kids in my classes talking about their weekends. This often involves hearing about how drunk they got. I have also heard others commenting about how they don’t get drunk, but drink responsibly. I am not sure if the rest of the school has heard, but we are not 21, and we can’t drink yet. There is no way for someone under 21 to drink responsibly, because it is illegal, and breaking the law is never responsible. I am sure that I am not preaching to the choir; not only have I learned that teens are drinking from personal
Debra Williams Freak on Parade experiences, but take a look at the ‘Live Large’ campaign. 16 percent of students drink and drive at our school. With a statistic like that, how many are drinking and not driving? (By the way, a word to those of you who are drinking and driving:
What is wrong with you. You can call someone to pick you up if you are drunk! If you haven’t yet, go take a look at the bulletin board outside of the fitness room.) So why is it that students drink? I have heard that it is fun, it is just social, or that it is to forget about life for a while. Well, there are lots of other ways to have fun! There is always bowling, seeing movies, hanging out in old town, talking to a friend, non-drinking parties, etc. The social aspect of drinking also sucks. When you got to a party and drink, you make a fool of yourself in front of the entire group. What happens when a few people at your party aren’t drunk, and remember the stupid things
you do? What happens when you’re judgment is impaired, and although you were going to wait to have sex, it seems like a good idea to have it now? Also, when you drink to get away from things for a while, you come back to the exact problems that were waiting for you before. Drinking because you are upset or lonely can only make the matter worse. Solve the problem that is upsetting you so much, and if you can’t do it on your own, then get help. There is a great team of counselors at our school, and any one of them would be glad to help you. Debra Williams is a senior and a reporter for the Highlighter
op/ed
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friday, nov. 7
Students unified by Lobo Way, work towards common goal
Saying of Lobo Way misleads students to think themselves as hungry canines
The Lobo Way is not only a phrase, but an unwritten code of ethics for Rocky students. Principal Tom Lopez has continued the tradition, started by fromer Principal Paul Radcliff, of holding students to a standard higher than that of the average high schooler. By using this phrase, Lopez tells students that they have more expected of them than of most, and that he believes they can do more than most. If students are expected to live up to a higher standard, they will. When Lopez tells new students they are not living up to “The Lobo Way,” it helps them to realize we are not only a school, but a chain only as strong as the weakest link. Also, Lopez is turning the school into more of a team. His speeches unify the students to work for a common goala better community environment. If we all join forces, we will be able to make a huge difference in Fort Collins. This is an age where most students are developing their individuality, and bringing the students together is refreshing. We all need to feel we are a part of something, and a phrase like “The Lobo Way” accomplishes that. The Lobo is a wolf, and wolfs travel in packs. The phrase encourages students to take care of and defend each other.
Teachers, staff members, and coaches, have been telling us to obide by “The Lobo Way” for years, but what do they mean? “Any of a large group of wild, flesh-eating dog like mammals,” is what the Second College Edition dictionary refers to as the lobo. So, what is “The Lobo Way?” I know I’m not the only one who questions this saying because it rarely is explained. One may think, “The Lobo Way,” according to the definition, is to scavange food, and take care of pups inside of a hole in the ground. Or maybe “The Lobo Way” is influencing everyone to be aggressive and have haunting desires to bite off fellow students’ arms. I don’t know what to think because teachers and coaches want me to act in the way of a lobo. Every assembly I have attended has ended with the pricipal re-implying that we are all part of “The Lobo Way.” Okay, so we still don’t really know what it is, we just associate it with school pride, and unity because why would the principal want us to eat the arms off of our friends? Everyone has their own understanding on what “The Lobo Way” is, because no one has ever really told us what it implies. It’s kind of like when I’m in math class and the teacher is explaining something to me. I knod like I understand, but I don’t have the slightest idea. When people tell me to obide by the lobo way, I subconsciously nod, and smile, but inside I’m thinking of a street name, or a ravishing wolf. Would someone please explain the behind meaning of the phrase, or stop saying it all together, because it is messing with my head, and I know I’m not the only one. -Amy White
-Debra Williams
Turtle not good mascot for city Dear Editor, Recently, I have noticed one advertisement (in the Highlighter) that, well, dosen’t seem quite right. The advertisement in which I am referring is the “Drive Slower in the Neighborhood” ad, featuring the turtle in an Uncle Sam-esque hat. The turtle, though awfully partiotic and stylish in the hat, simply does not achieve his goal of getting high
school students to slow down and drive the speed limit. If one day I was driving down the street (most likely not going the speed limit as is my teenage nature to do) and I saw a turtle in a hat, my mind would not trigger the response to slow down. I would rather begin careening wildly in an effort to get a better look at that crazy hat-wearing turtle. If the City of Fort Collins would like to get their message across, their mascot may be better suited to be, let’s say, a mangled child. I
readerinput have come to this conclusion because when a child runs out in the street in front of my massive Toyota Camry, I not only slow down, but come to a full and complete stop, even if that means slamming on my brakes and the A.B.S. kicks on.And besides, I don’t want a turtle telling me what to do. I bet he doesn’t even have a driver’s license. -Stephanie Barrett, senior
More planning needed for gym Dear Editor, I firmly agree with the need for the addition of a new gym at Rocky. It is long overdue, and will greatly enhance the school. However, sonsidering the impact it will have on the parking and congestion in the parking lot, I have to wonder about the timing of the construction. Would it not be better to initiate the construction during the summer
con side
pro side
Thou shall walk in the way of the Lobo...
months when school is not in session? The parking lot is already overcrowded, and no arrangements were made prior to the schol year to minimze the number of cars driven by students or to accommodate the overflow of traffic and parking. If construction began during the summer months perhaps the worst of the construction process and impact on parking lot would be complete. -Chris Krueger, senior
Initiation no longer funny; now serious fatal issue Sports initiation: It’s supposed to be all fun and games. Yet many students don’t understand the severity of it. Hazing has gone out of control. It is way out of hand. A process which is designed to encourage “team bonding,” initiations have grown to out of control proportions. Many claim that initiation is ‘fun,’ but it is neither of these things. This is not a transfer into adulthood. People are being hurt, and abused by what people call fun. Do people not understand that hazing is emotional and
Kelly Reingardt
Guest Column physical abuse? You may think you are just having fun, but you may be causing extreme embarassment and emotional damage. It is no longer funny. Why
can’t people see that? It has gone to far. At Californa State University, Los Angeles, a hazing incident reached an extreme. Kristin High was taken to the beach at night and made to do push-ups in heavy sweats while the waves crasched against her. Her sorority sisters thought they were having fun with her, but they couldn’t be more wrong. As she was doing push-ups the waves overtook her; she drowned to death. High left behind a young son, Skylar, and her fiancee, Holman Arthurs. Her son will never know his mom, because
of some stupid hazing. This is when it has gone to far. How dare anyone say that it is all fun and games when people are dying? I realize this is only one example, but that is one too many. We don’t need to risk killing more people for what others call “fun and games.” A recent study has said that 73 percent of all college athletes are being hazed. Of those, 43 percent said that they were made to do humiliating things. 23 percent said they were part of substance abuse, and 29 percent were made to do illegal acts. How can people look at
those numbers and say that there isn’t a problem? Yes, it may seem that I am angry, and for good reason. No one should be made to go through these kind of things just to be part of a team. If you want the team to come together, putting the underclassman through hell is not the way to do it. If you think that hazing is all fun and games you are wrong. I would like you to go to Kristin High’s house and tell her son why his mom is never coming home again. Senior Kelly Reingardt is a reporter for the Highligher.
newspage
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Friday, November 7
Page Editor: Vanessa Falgout
School unites for fund-raising season Help Students, staff come together wanted to raise money for charitable causes GATHER UP YOUR CHANGE, IT’S COUNTIN’-TIME: Junior Meghan Lee (left), counts change for the Quarter-Mile-ofChange program. This fundraiser is one of the many fundraising events students participate in each year to contribute to the community.
by Marlys Merril
Reporter
Over time, people have been coming together to raise money for many different needs. The students and staff frequently participate in activities to raise money and provide things for each other and the community. Though fund-raising and charitable events are completely different, they give the school and its students an “A” when it comes to participation. One of the main events that students are involved in, is Adopt-aFamily, directed by counselor Pam Kilness. “It’s a good program because a wide variety of people get involved,” said Kilness. “It’s amazing how the school pulls together.” Established in 1997, the Adopt-a-Family program is designed for families in need. The students participate in many different ways, such as contacting businesses, collecting items, loading boxes, and delivering and transporting the goods to over 62 families for Christmas.
Usually, teens have bad publicity. This kind of stuff gives them good publicity.
by Amy White
Reporter
-Pam Kilness, counselor
“Usually, teens have bad publicity. This kind of stuff gives them good publicity,”said Kilness. Several groups of students involved in extra-curricular activities come together as well to raise money to provide for things that the school is unable to provide. “Each club has their own set of things they like to do as fundraisers,” said assistant vice principal Marian Kolstoe, who is in charge of the fund-raisers. “All of the money goes back to the students in some way or another anyway,” said Kolstoe. Though there are many clubs and activities to get involved in, students are also able to get involved in the charitable events the school participates in, without long-term commitment.
DEBRA WILLIAMS
One of these charitable events the school is priviledged to work with, is the QuarterMile-of-Change, which allows Student Council members to learn how to write and distribute grants for non-profit companies. “I like watching kids learn how to grant money to nonprofit organizations,” said Laura Druse, student council adviser. This activity has every homeroom filling bags full of change.
After the school raises a total of $1500, the program receives an additional $7500, which is given back to the school for students to decide which nonprofit organization they want to donate that money to. “We have never not met that goal,” said Druse. Whether it’s getting invloved through a club, participating in after school events, or volunteering throught the kindness of heart, there are many different ways for students to get involved.
Videography students involved in ‘gun’ incident by Jake Rubin
Entertainment Editor
Teacher Jay Dukart often hears complaints or reports of his videography students not abiding by the rules he sets the first day of class. But when he first learned three of his students were arrested for having a fake gun, he was shocked. “At first I was really concerned that they were okay because I was scared that something really hardcore happened to them,” said Dukart. “Then I wanted to get all the facts and find out how the police became involved.” What Dukart discovered was that three of his students, Kyle Bajtelsmit, Guy D’Amato, and
Viewer
Matt Ramirez, had been shooting a video (one they claim was for videography) in an old alleyway in downtown Fort Collins. In their short film about a mobster, Bajtelsmit’s character had a fake gun to shoot down another character. “Of all the things in this movie, the gun was the least dangerous,” said Bajtelsmit. The police thought otherwise and, Bajtelsmit was quickly forced to the ground by a police officer, with many cop cars behind for backup. “That was the real problem,” said D’Amato. “It wasn’t because we were menacing, it was because so many cops were there that they said it could have put
other cops in danger.” D’Amato and his friends later were told that people who had walked by called the police, along with a retired Loveland policeman who lived nearby. He allegedly reported that the three boys were threatening him with their fake gun, a claim Bajtelsmit and D’Amato refute. “People were walking by and asking us about it,” said Bajtelsmit. “We made the mistake of assuming people would be able to tell the difference between some kids shooting each other and shooting a movie.” Dukart understands the concern, especially in a time of such heightened security. “Times have changed a lot, es-
over your shoulder,” Adams said. Adams also thinks that a number of teachers feel the PIV is an “invasion of privacy.” “It’s just this invasion of someone coming into my grade book,” Adams said. “It’s scary.” Parents will be notified about the PIV through a newsletter and during parent teacher conferences Nov. 13. A training session will be provided for parents at the conferences Administration hopes that the PIV will be a “step in which we can get parents, teachers and students more actively involved.” “A consistently updated accessible gradebook for
pecially violence in public,” said Dukart. “Sometimes it’s unfair that it has been taken to such an extent, but I also understand why we have to be cautious. They just made a couple of bad decisions, like being in the open public without notifying people.” D’Amato and Bajtelsmit admit that they could have approached the situation better, which may have resulted in fewer repercussions. “If I could have done it over again, I would have contacted the police first. They told us they could have taped up the area had we gotten permission,” said Bajtelsmit. “Or perhaps we could have used another alley.”
Parents
Endless amounts of applications and hand cramps, just to get nice and snug in a file inside of a filing cabinet. Well, not anymore. The economy is rising because the ratio of kids working, to the unemployed, has soared. Shopping centers, hardware stores, restaurants and more are all looking for holiday help. “I just recently got a job at this new restaurant, Bostons,” said senior Ali Foster. “There’s a lot of places hiring right now, so keep looking.” In some cases applicants must be 18, and for high school students that requirement might be an obstacle. Starbucks, as well as Victoria Secret, are some stores that require their staff to be 18. Not everywhere is hiring fulltime, but a lot of places are looking for holiday help, which starts from the middle of November to the end of January I. “Everyone needs to start applying now because if places do decide to hire, they will need to train by the middle of November,” said Pace assistant, Deb Aragon. “There are many opportunities, and everyone needs to take advantage of them.” This year the holiday job market will be more competitive than in past years, reported international outplacement firm, Gray and Christmas.Traditionally, the retail industry does most of its hiring during the holiday saeson. In November and December of 2002, retailers added about 555,000 workers, according to the U.S. Bureau of labor statistics.
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many are not comfortable with the program. Many teachers were unhappy with the district decision. “Teachers have already voiced to me that it’s just another way the district makes decisions without teacher input,” Lopez said. Although the PIV does not require teachers to do anything more than update grades every two weeks on currently used software, a process most teachers do already, many teachers feel the PIV to be unnecessary. “We have so many things that we’re held responsible for, and you add to that this constant reminder that someone is looking
Jobs more obtainable for teens
students will hopefully increase student grades, Lopez said. The availability of the PIV does not necessarily mean parents will become more involved. The PIV just gives involved parents something more to be involved, Adams said. “The same parents who show up for back-to-school night and parent-teacher conferences will use the internet viewer,” Adams said. However, a lack of understanding by parents of a specific teacher ’s grade book could prove to be a burnden on many teachers. “It could really increase our phone-call time,” Adams said.
Additionally, Larkin said that her parents may not agree with all the laws on the books, but it is their job to enforce those laws, which can be considered the will of the people. “Just because they are both cops, it doesn’t mean they like all the laws,” Larkin said. “They follow them, because they have to, just like everyone else.” Both Turney and Neal’s families have no problem with abiding by local laws, either. “I’ve never had a dispute about laws in our family,” Turney said. Turney said even his more experienced 20-year-old brother, Craig, doesn’t find any fault in having his dad as a cop. “My brother hasn’t ever been
affected by my dad’s job,” Turney said. “He even rides along with my dad sometimes.” But working in a risky job like law enforcement can come with dangerous consequences. When asked if she worries about her parents’ safety, Larkin said, “Sometimes, yeah. Who doesn’t worry about their parents?” In regards to his father, Turney added, “He’s been doing this for so long that it’s routine.” The bottom line for students whose parents are police is the reality of the separation of job and home. “They aren’t cops 24/7,” Larkin said. “They’re still parents. It’s not as hard as people think it would be.”
features
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Features Editor: Kyle Herman
Vanessa Falgout
Friday, November 7
Stories of America
I Can’t Get My Hair Color Right
Dickens replaced by Cliff’s notes Don’t read this column. Reading it will only extract from your countless hours of free time. In fact, for all you busy teens on the go, Cliff’s Notes are now available at all local and major book retailers for your convenience. Back in the days of yore, reading was a popular pastime, but currently it has reached the slothful level of the drive-thru phenomenon. No longer is reading about learning something new, or becoming cultured. It has evolved into a nuisance. Not only do teenagers neglect to read in their free time, they also fail to complete school-assigned reading; instead, they opt for the summarized versions through use of either Cliff’s Notes or online sources, such as sparknotes.com. Jack Kerouac, J.D. Salinger, Shakespeare, and Dickens spent hours upon hours creating amazing pieces of literature, yet how do people repay them? They read the condensed version because they do not have the “time” to read a novel that took ages for someone to write and has stood the test of time as great literature. Choosing to take the easy way out of reading a book is not only disgraceful to the author, but it is also disgraceful to yourself. Neglecting to read an entire novel is depriving yourself of seeing the world from a different point of view, or learning something new. Another disadvantage, especially when using online sources, is that the validity of the analysis and summary of a novel is quite low. The fact is, online notes are written by some poor college guy who needed the money to buy a jumbo pack of Easy-Mac because he hadn’t eaten in five months. Sadly, this idle behavior carried out by teenagers will some day progress to the condensing of all pieces of writing. Newspapers, magazines, scholarly journals, and other documents will all come with an analysis and summary attached to it. Reading in this nature will also make American citizens even less cultured and intelligent than they already are. If teens started to read more, then it wouldn’t seem like an irritating chore that has to be done for a good grade in school. Literature is about appreciating human existence, but if we cannot even respect literature, then how can we learn to appreciate life? Vanessa Falgout is a senior and the News Editor of the Highlighter
GRAPHIC BY: JAKE RUBIN
The yee-haw and giddy-up of America Country music boasts Country music AMERICANA rich American heritage describes life by Heather Stevens
Reporter
Shania Twain, Garth Brooks, Tim McGraw, the Dixie Chicks. The list goes on and on. All these artists have entered the Top 40 Billboard charts, but what is unusual about that? Although these singers play country music, their popularity has reached mainstream audiences. The history of country music dates back to the 1830s when musicians played alone with a fiddle or banjo to entertain their families. Country music had its first major boom in the early 1900s when Sear ’s and Roe Buck co. advertised the first guitars and music in its catalog. This provided access to making country music available to the general public. The next known expansion of country music in the early 1900’s was ushered in by the invention of the phonograph and the addition of mail order records. For the first time, people could enjoy the recording of “Rag time Annie” and “Turkey in the Shaw,” by Henry Gilliland. Country music told stories of everyday life in an effort to express the hardships people faced. Early songs talked about love, war, work, adventure, and religion. As time went on religon was replaced with everyday life.
This series
Gailen Sprague, by Marlys Merrill of articles is on Reporter a disc jockey at Americana, K99 Radio, says, When most people think about aspects of our “Country music country music, they imagine a trip to culture which has become so The Sundance, stepping on a wood are truly mainstream floor and line and square dancing like American. The because it reflects everybody else. series will the feelings and However, when looking back on it, continue in the emotions of the country music is more than just a few January issue l i s t e n e r, ” s a i d steps to a couple of Gailen Sprague, a featuring Fast beats. It’s a huge disc jockey at K99 Food. part of America. It’s not just Radio. “I just know it’s another lie. They An example of deeper. The reason are actually talking this is in Shania is in my head but I about something Twain’s song just can’t describe that is personal to History of “From This it,” said senior them. country music Moment On.” Amber Hall, who -Amber Hall, senior Twain sings about has been listening ◆ First advertised lost love. to country music guitar in Sear’s and There are many since she was five years old. Roe Buck co. catalog new listeners of Many believe listening to country in the early 1900’s. country music. music is strange, especially with rap ◆ Mail order records “The music is and R & B around. However, country became popular in appealing because has been around longer than those early 1900’s we live in a rural genres of music. area,” says Unlike other genres, country doesn’t ◆ “Turkey in the Jerhamia Hawes, talk about growing up in the ghetto or Shaw,” becomes the an owner of Corral drive-by’s and strip clubs. More most popular country West Ranch Wear traditionally, country is personalized, song since 1910. Listeners also usually having the lyrics come from ◆ In 1980, the band enjoy country the artist and their own personal Alabama first hit music for the way experience. number one in the US it makes them feel. “It’s more about relationships, love, Not only does it and drinking,” said Hall. “It’s not just describe many another lie. They are actually talking peoples lives, it also makes about something that is personal to them.” people feel good. Often in American culture, products are used to “Country music is becoming create the image of looking younger and feeling more popular than rock, younger. Country songs such as Kenny Chesney ‘s becuase it just makes people feel song “Young” are reminisces of the “old days” before good,” said Gailen. Jump to Music page b2
Exchange students enjoy life in U.S., at Rocky by Cassie Bohlmann
Contributor
Although multi-cultural experiences can be shocking and even stressful at times, there are students who have chosen to acclimate themselves to another culture, making new friends and learning new customs. Among the major changes for foreign exchange students are food, school subjects, schedules, and drinking ages. Two of the
exchange students this year, Alisa Wagner and Charlotte Wefers, both juniors from Germany, are WEFERS now enjoying their temporary stays in America. Wagner, who chose to come to America because she had
CHOWIN’ DOWN: On the left, Students from international club, Parmjeit Bhatti and Rosemary Wolf, eat the different foods from foreign countries. Some exchange students are part of the international club.
already previously visited the U.S., is also enjoying her unique experience. “I like being here;
DEBRA WILLIAMS
It’s nice to get to know a Jump to Exchange page b2
b2: features
friday, nov. 7
page
Lambkin becomes Lobo VanTatenhove makes an exiting addition to school
Features Editor: Kyle Herman
Visit to Mecca holy site tradition for Habiballa by Kelly Reingardt
Reporter
by Amy White
Reporter Fort Collins native Scott VanTatenhove, proudly breathes in Rocky air this year. VanTatenhove is going on his third year teaching, but has only taught at Rocky for two semesters. “I was raised to hate Rocky AMY W HITE because I was a Lambkin, but VANTATEN-IT-UP. New Rocky teacher Scott VanTatenhove lectures then when I got here, I was his class. VanTatenhove taught at Collins before accepting a new job at amazed at how phenomenal Rocky. the staff was, and how great the kids were,”said Mia Marie. “My goal is for everyone to VanTatenhove. “I had no idea “The baby takes priority, want to travel to these Rocky was going to be this and she gets most of my countries and gain an interest wonderful.” t i m e , ” in new cultures,” said VanTatenhove s a i d VanTatenhove. t e a c h e s VanTatenhove. VanTatenhove has spent W o r l d Though one year traveling and going Humanities, and every VanTatenhove’s schedule has to school in the Middle East. period is completely full. changed, preparing lesson Then he spent a summer in “Mr. V is a really good plans are completley wide China, as well as a summer teacher, and I like the movies open. He is the only World in Europe. He also had a he shows in class,” said junior Hunamities teacher in the Fulbright scholarship to Brittani Gooden, “especially school, and there are no state India. when he relates the Simpsons standards. “My traveling gives me to our lectures.” The class is taught around first- hand experience and an Forming lesson plans has the idea of opening one’s eyes understanding of cultures become much harder for and having different that you can’t get in a book,” VanTatenhove, due to the perspectives on foreign said VanTatenhove, “but by newest addition to his family, cultures. actually living it.”
teacherfeature
Taking a summer trip to a different country is everyone’s dream. But for Miriam Habiballa, it is just like any other summer. Being a member of the Habiballa family means taking a trip to Saudi Arabia each summer. “ I go back HABIBALLA every year and visit relatives,” s a i d Habiballa. “It’s more fun than Fort Collins.” Saudi Arabia is a very religious country. Therefore, the Habiballa family visited Mecca. Mecca, the holy city, is considered one of the major Muslim sites in Saudi Arabia. “ It’s very spiritual. There are so many people from so many different countries,” said Habiballa. “ The whole place just glows.” So how does Habiballa feel about being Muslim in America? “We talk Arabic at home and eat Arabic food when we
studentfeature
FROM PAGE B1
Music
growing up, pointed out junior Kim Spears. America is its own universe in the world of country music. It’s about cowboys and western ways which a person doesn’t see in other continents, such as Europe. Growing up in the American
A bit
chilly for a long ride?
culture people are often taught that love is bliss because, when there is love, there is not loneliness. Country music often portrays this image with its lyrics. “People are trying to find love everywhere you go,” said Hall. “It reminds me of my own life.”
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are in America,” said Habiballa. “It is like an Arabic culture in America.” Another major aspect in Habiballa’s life is the celebration of Ramadan. Ramadan started on Nov. 2 and will last throughout the month. Fasting is one of the big things attributed with this holy time. “During Ramadan you can’t eat, drink, anything, including water, during the day. You are supposed to fast when you are 12, 13, or 14, but children like to try it too,” said Habiballa Eating is only one thing that Muslim’s cannot do during Ramadan. “You can’t smoke or anything like that,” said Habiballa. “Also sex.” Despite the “down sides” to Ramadan, Habiballa says that the month is really very enjoyable. “I love this month,” said Habiballa. “It’s such a spiritual thing. We believe that if you do a good thing, you are rewarded. Every night we have Taraweeh (a series of 12 prayers) and you pray for about an hour. My whole lifestyle changes during Ramadan.”
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F ROM PAGE B1
Exchange
It’s nice to get to know a different culture,” she said. Although a new culture may be a shock, the students find that the course load and the educational system are easier to handle in America. “We have one more year of school and 13 subjects a week in Germany. We are forced to take at least six years of English and five years of French,” said Wagner. “It’s easy here because there are less classes and subjects, and we don’t have as many tests.” Wefers agrees, saying “We have a different school system; we can’t choose the classes, so it’s easier here.” Although the students are getting used to the culture and are now meeting new students, there are a few aspects of America that annoy them. “I hate the food here. It’s only fast food; you can’t get any vegetables,” said Wagner. “All exchange students that come to America gain weight.” Wefers also commented on the difference in diet, saying, “At the meals here you eat meat and a little bit of vegetables. In Germany you eat lots of vegetables and fruits, and just a little meat.” Despite the cultural differences, both Wefers and Wagner are enjoying their time in the U.S. and look forward to their remaining time. “It’s great because I have an awesome host family,” said Wefers. “The school is awesome, and everything is just awesome.”
friday, nov. 7
Features Editor: Kyle Herman
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Students, teachers take part in pranks Q & A: Lindsey Ralph by Kyle Herman
Features Editor
Halloween has come and gone, but the pranks associated with Halloween are far from over. Pranks are the “trick” part of “trick or treat,” but they last throughout the year. One of the many fine pranks is the popular TP’ing. TP’ing is when people throw toilet paper all over someones house and yard. Although TP’ing is illegal, many people, including Registrar Bonnie DiCiacco, are willing to admit to commiting this crime. Diciacco relates her story: “When I was 18 years old, I TP’d my psychology teacher’s house in high school because we liked him. It was late and some friends and I were at a slumber party. We had been told to bring four rolls of toilet paper each, and we had planned what we were going to do. We were being chased by some boys and we passed
some cops. They saw us being chased and pulled us over and the boys ran away. They just wanted to see if we were okay, but they noticed that we each had toilet paper in our laps. When they asked why we had the toilet paper, we made up a believable story about how we were all sick. The cops brought us to our teacher’s house, and the teacher took us in, made us s o m e cocoa, and escorted us back to our house. We were never able to follow through.” TP’ing is the most popular form of “vandalism” pranks but there are plenty of others. A teacher who wants to remain anonymous says, “I used to rub onions all over people’s window screens so when they opened their windows it smelled like onions for days.”
Sophomores James Gutowski and David Clarke also admit to experimenting with pranks, although their pranks are much more different. “It’s fun to ‘fork’ people’s lawns,” said Gutowski. “You get a bunch of plastic forks and then just stick them into people’s lawns late at night.” When asked why this was such a fun activity, Gutowski responded, “In Fort Collins ther e is nothing to do, so that’s why we do it.” Clarke has another prank that he likes to do. “You can get some detergent and spell words on people’s lawns. It’s really funny,” Clarke said. “I do it for the thrill of hearing the story the next day.” Pranks have always been the “Halloween” theme, but both Gutowski and Clarke say that pranks are everyday activities. “You don’t need a special occasion to have fun,” said Clarke.
Lindsay Ralph is a soccer player and is getting scholarship offers from many colleges. Q: What is the main reason to play soccer in college, and what will you get out of it? A: First, I am getting into a good social circle, without drugs or alcohol. I also will have friends right away and can keep in shape. Q: Have you had any good offers from colleges yet? A: I’m getting ahold of the University of Oregon later this week to finalize money issues. Q: Have you visited any schools that are looking at you for soccer? A: I visited the University of Oregon, and the campus was
gorgeous. I plan to visit CU unofficially. Q: If CSU organizes a soccer team this year, would you consider going there, or would you rather leave Colorado? A: I would definitely consider CSU, because I want to stay close to my friends and family. The only down side would be that it’s CSU’s first year having a girl’s soccer team, and I probably wouldn’t get a lot of money. Q: Are your parents fully supportive of you leaving the state on a soccer scholarship? A: On a scholarship yes, but I have to get at least in state tuition because they can’t support me on an out of state tuition.
Modified dance upsets students, adds all-female football game by Kyle Herman
Features Editor
The new name of the once Sadie Hawkins Dance, Girls Ask Guys Dance, is a joke amongst students. Student Counsel (StuCo) felt that the old name was outdated and changed. The dance is no longer country western, but asks students to dress up as cartoon characters. Although this new theme was meant to please students, the change was not welcome. Some are upset because of the loss of tradition. “I wish they would keep the Sadies tradition alive, or change the whole dance entirely,” said senior Summer Alameel. Cassie Bohlmann,a senior, is
girlsask guys •The new theme for the ‘girl ask guy’ dance is “girl power” •The dance is on Saturday, Nov. 22 from 8-11. •There will be a Flag Football game on Nov. 21 at 3:30. Only girls can play. •The dress of the dance is “matching cartoon characters.”
upset about the change as well. “I had planned on going to Sadies, but now that they changed the name it sounds like a joke,” Bohlmann said. “Maybe I would dress up like a cartoon if I was in fifth grade, but now it sounds a little childish and immature.”
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The dance is meant Aguero is to empower women, referring to the All the losers like me probably don’t but that idea is lost in nerves that he gets care about who asks who as long as the cartoon costumes. while waiting for a they get a date. Many students are girl to ask him. -Jon Aguero, senior opposed to the idea of “All the losers, dressing up like like me probably cartoons, feeling that it is “I think the football game don’t care about who asks who juvenile. rocks,” said sophomore Amanda as long as they get a date. If “I think it’s nice that they are Fenton. “I am so going to play in someone needs a date, let me trying to push women’s rights, the football game.” know, I’ll check my schedule,” but it is just not a good idea,” said Although the theme of the said Aguero. “Yeah, it’s clear.” junior Molly Geppert. “I dance has changed, it is still a The girls ask guy dance has wouldn’t dress up like a cartoon “girls-ask-guys” dance. That still always been a hit, but the new character.” means girls pay for dinner, “cartoon” theme is not a big hit Although the change in the tickets, and gas for the car. with the students. dance is not popular, the football Senior Jon Aguero says that the Fenton says, “I think the game beforehand is. The game, girls ask guy idea is a good one. change is ridiculous because known as ‘powder puff’, features “It takes some of the pressure Sadies is a tradition, and a women playing football and men off of us guys,” said Aguero, “but cartoon theme puts us back into cheerleading. it also adds some on as well.” junior high.”
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Page Editor: Kyle Herman
photofocus
Friday, November 7
SKIN LIKE PORCELAIN: A Geisha girl (left) poses during a photo shoot. Geisha derives from the term “Gei” which means performance in Japanese and “sha” which means people. Geisha girls and women are highly respected in Japanese culture and are trained in a number of traditional skills. The Rocky Mountain Echoes (below) stand in front of the Yamagata prefectural building. Government building were designed using European architecture to encourage European interaction.
Echoes cross the world
Choir performs at annual cultural festival in Yamagata, Japan, represented US
by Erik Pinkston
Editor-in-Chief
Last May, a select chior started rehearsing every Saturday for a couple of hours. Rehearsals started again in August every Saturday for three hours. The Rocky Mountain Echoes, a choir of 24 juniors and seniors, was preparing for a once in a life time trip to Japan. The choir, which usually meets two times a week during lunch, started extra rehearsals to prepare for the choir trip the first week in October. Echoes was invited to perform at an international cultural festival, held annually in Yamagata prefecture, Japan. While on the trip, Echoes would perform in a parade, on live
TRANS-PACIFIC TRAVEL: Senior Kelly Funk and junior David McKelfresh (above) catch some sleep in the Tokyo bullet train station after a long day of traveling. Seniors Colin Slade and Rachel Tenney (right) get ready to march in the Yamagata Cultural Parade.
A MOMENT OF TRANQUILITY: Senior Andy Frank (above) soaks in a piece of Yamagata, the morning after arriving in Japan. Junior Ryne Haldaman (right) experiences a traditional style lunch.
Photos by Erik Pinkston
television and in numerous locations. Yamagata is a sister state of Colorado, and for several years groups from Colorado have been chosen to participate in the festival. Echoes was the only group chosen from the United States. After months of advanced preparation, the all-expense paid trip turned out to be an experience in luxury and firstclass treatment. The choir was whisked away on a rigorous sight-seeing schedule and had the privilege to see a variety of traditional and modern cultural centers. From the incredibly large city of Tokyo to the serene vistas of Shinto temples, Echoes were heard around the world.
entertainment Entertainment Editor: Jake Rubin
c
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Friday, November 7
Jake Rubin
Jew Stew
Defining the new celebrity Once upon a time, celebrities were famous for their talents. In this strange era, these celebrities used both a first and a last name. They had real careers and were celebrated not because of who their parents were, what their current drug addiction is, or their latest “romantic” interest. But now, in the year 2003, all that has changed. No longer are the people that saturate the tabloid magazines like People and Us the proactive, creative leaders of the industry, but rather the media-whores with good publicists. The good publicists are able to stretch their client’s 15 minutes of fame into a painstakingly long 15,000,000 minutes. They’ll plot a few good “shocking” moments as soon as their star begins to fade (remember the Britney and Madonna kiss). They’ll fabricate a love affair to make Entertainment Tonight’s top story. But what they won’t do is let the 15 minutes just expire. Is there a better recent example of this than J. Lo and Ben? Or should I say, “Benifer,” as the media labeled it. We got to see this Hollywood couple flaunt their “love” (lust may be a more accurate term) as if there was no tomorrow. Then came Gigli. The prolonged publicity stunt of their engagement to promote their two costarring movies (the next being called Jersey Girl) finally began to backfire as people finally expressed their disgust with these lovers that call themselves movie stars. Soon enough, the entity of Benifer will have a star on the Hollywood walk of fame. There also seem to be an abundance of celebrities who are famous for no reason at all except for, well, being famous. The first of these that sadly comes to my mind is the Hilton sisters. These rich heirs of the Hilton hotel fortune do nothing but party and have become Hollywood’s town bicycle. They are in no movies, they sing no songs, yet somehow they still manage to make headlines of every tabloid, every week. Seems anyone who is rich, has rich parents or a perfect body is the ideal celebrity for our times. Jake Rubin is a senior and Entertainment Editor for the Highlighter
Matrix: More than kung-fu fighting evolved along by Vanessa Falgout have News Editor with the release of Since its release in 1999, The Matrix and its phenomenon have reintroduced several lost elements of film. The return of the kung-fu centered movie (with a futuristic twist of course), along with the revival of Keanu Reeves’s not-so impressive acting career, are two of the most obvious resurrections that occur in the film. However, the most significant resurgence in the film is more unnoticeable. When patrons pack movie stadiums to see one of the Matrix films, it is common that they are there to watch an action packed movie, but some Matrix aficionados have a different reason: to uncover the mythology and religious themes hidden within the film. Brian D’Emilio is one of the many Matrix theologians that
the trilogy. Theologians have diverse reasons for developing theories about the films. D’Emilio’s motive to develop his theory and publish it on his w e b s i t e : briandemilio.com/ matrix/, was partly induced by the multidimensional elements of religion alluded to within the film. “I was prompted to write about the films themselves because they contain an astonishing array of imagery from just about every religion on Earth,” said D’Emilio. Another inspiration for D’Emilio’s theory, which he also intends to publish as a novel in the near future, derives from his own per-
sonal journey towards self discovery. “I have explored and delved deeply into a few different religions in order to find some answer to who I am and what it means to be alive,” said D’Emilio. “Of course, I did not realize that was my intention at first. Like the phrase in the first movie: ‘You know something you can’t explain. Like a splinter in your mind driving you mad. There is something wrong with the world.’ That was my motivation to explore a deeper meaning. Only recently did I come to realize I was not searching for ‘God,’ but for answers.” Many theologians argue that the Matrix films contain implicaJump to Matrix, page c2
Students caught in the Matrix phenomenon by Erik Pinkston
Editor-in-Chief The Matrix has you. Whether you want to admit it or not. Since the general population was introduced to The Matrix in 1999, life and the movie making industry has changed forever. And finally, after the release of Matrix: Reloaded and the Animatrix on DVD the Matrix saga came to close last Wednesday with the release of the final movie The Matrix: Revolutions. So whether one would like to admit it or not: the Matrix has them. The number of factors that appeal to so many regarding the Matrix are limitless. The movies appeal to fans of all types of movies, action, martial arts, science fiction, drama. “It’s definitely a great balance of storyline effects and awesomeness,” senior Trevor Banta said. While spin-offs and rip-offs of the amazing special effects in The Matrix are common, many feel that without the unique story line the movie would not have been as successful. “I definitely like the whole idea,” junior Tom Fry said. Written and directed by the Wachowski brothers, the dense story line has been developed completely with no frustrating loop-holes in the story, said Fry. “I like how (the story) is gone so in depth,” Fry said. Jump to Fans, Fans c2
PHOTOS COURTESY OF WARNER B ROTHERS PICTURES
Battle of Fort Collins’ big burritos by Kyle Herman and Courtney Mohr
Staff
In Fort Collins there are many restaurants that feature burritos, but which place has the best one? The competition mainly focuses on Big City Burrito, Qdoba, and Chipotle, and with all these places featuring a burrito, it is hard to know just where to go to get the best burrito in town. Qdoba has many choices for a burrito. The burrito at Qdoba was sub-par to say the least. First of all, the bean-rice-meat mixture was completely separated. At first one would take a bite
QDOBA
and only get rice, followed by a bite of only beans, and then a bite of only meat. Secondly, Qdoba over-charges for their burritos. They cost an approximate $7 at Qdoba while at Big City you could get much more for your buck. Qdoba: D Chipotle was not much better than Qdoba. The same problems arose with the rice-beanmeat mixture being mixed to-
CHIPOTLE
gether. The thing that makes Chipotle better than Qdoba is the price. One plus is a free drink if you mention you’re a student. Chipotle: C+ Big City had the best burrito in town. The mixture is perfect, with each bite containing the same amount of rice and beans as meat. There were two other things that stood out at Big City: price and flavor. First, at Big
BIG CITY BURRITO
City, the burritos are around $5. This is a very good deal, because the burrito at Big City is, well, big. Flavor was also a huge hit at Big City, not only in their normal burritos, but especially in there “featured” burrito, the Potato Burrito. This burrito is filled with soft potato pieces, cheese, ranch dressing, and if you desire, meat and salsa. Big City Burrito: A+
c2: entertainment
page
friday, nov. 7
Entertainment Editor: Jake Rubin
Radio broadcasts a message of hope by Vanessa Falgout
News Editor
Amid the sudden release of multiple horror and action based movies, Radio, directed b y M i k e To l l i n (S u m m e r Catch ), provides a wholesome change, but fails to connect to the audience. Radio chronicles the true life story of James Robert Kennedy (Cuba Gooding Jr.), or “Radio” as he is affectionately called by the community members of Anderson, South Carolina. Taking place in the 1970s, the plot begins with a local high school football team harassing mentally handicapped, shopping-cart wheeling, radio-obsessed Radio. The team’s coach, Harold Jones (Ed Harris), takes the frightened, mute Radio under his wing and nurses him back to health by naming him the team’s unofficial manager. Through this o p p o r t u n i t y, a n d J o n e s ’ s guidance, Radio emerges out of his shell, and evolves into an overtalkative, enthusiastic individual.
COURTESY OF COLUMBIA P ICTURES: MICHAEL TACKETT
OVER HERE COACH!: Cuba Gooding, Jr. (left) and Ed Harris star in Revolution Studios uplifting drama Radio, a Columbia Pictures release. The film is playing at both Cinemark 16 and Carmike 10 and is rated PG.
moviereview Despite Jones’s good intentions, and the welcome reception of Radio amongst the
inhibitants of Anderson, a few community members, stuck in their mundane smalltown traditions, disagree with helping Radio find his
Matrix
FROM PAGE C1
tions. D’Emilio’s theory says, “The Matrix relays old messages into the psyche of a new generation, a generation often considered godless and sacrilegious by its predecessors.” One of the most common theories about the series is that it retells the story of Christ. Many theologians connect Reeves’s character Neo to Christ. But, D’Emilio’s theory adds more insight to the concept. “Does Neo represent Jesus? Does Neo represent a Buddha? If one truly examines the films, one might come to the conclusion that Jesus and a Buddha are not that different,” said D’Emilio. “Their messages
might be more similar than one may have previously believed. Is Neo you or me? Is he different than us? How? Why?” “The Characters in the films are there to represent something,” said D’Emilio. “In the Matrix films, they actually represent the grandest and most powerful figures in the entire world: the gods, holy men, clergy, and dark forces present in all religions, cultures, and customs. The viewer can glean untold information and insight by using the representative characters of the films to examine his or her own life, belief systems, convictions, or lack thereof.” D’Emilio is aware that many fans watch the Matrix simply for its heavy martial arts focus, but
he is satisfied that people are at least watching the films and are exposed to their messages. Although there are many individuals that are unaware of the themes employed in the films, D’Emilio also believes that it is essential for viewers to catch on, and comprehend the mythology. “It is important for society to understand the mythology because the themes provoke thoughts concerning the most important issues of our time: Ourselves.” According to D’Emilio, “The most precious gift anyone can get from the Matrix films is to walk away, saying to themselves: ‘Is there something to wake up from in my own life?”
niche within Anderson. Unfortunately, this conflict of Harold Jones versus “evil” i g n o r a n t t o w n b a n k e r, Johnny Clay (Riley Smith),
was the main focus of the film rather than the emotions behind the humanitarian effort to incorporate Radio into the community. Aside from the shortcomings in the story line, the most outstanding aspect of the film is Gooding’s performance. He brilliantly portrays the essence of Radio, without slipping out of character, and was highly convincing. However, his performance was drowned by the choppy transitions from scene to scene and the ridiculously overwhelming focus of the drama between the community members, giving the film a soap-opera-esque feeling. Although Radio has a strong humanitarian message, it weakly portrays the emotions of Harold Jones and the people of Anderson, an essential element to instill the altruistic message behind the film. Overall, Radio is a mediocre effort to capture the wonders of the human spirit. The only reason worth seeing it is for Cuba Gooding Jr.’s spectacular performance. B+
The Bell Jar draws readers into insanity by Debra Williams
Reporter
Sylvia Plath invites us to join Esther Greenwood on a journey into the depths of insanity. The Bell Jar draws readers into the neurotic mind of Esther until her life consumes you, and begins to feel like your own. Esther’s battle begins when she wins a trip to New York as a guest editor for Mademoiselle Magazine for one of her short stories. Esther is totally numb to surroundings. “I felt very still and very empty, the way an eye of a tornado must feel, moving dully along in the middle of the surrounding hullabaloo,” write Plath Although 21-year-old Esther had always succeeded academically, her focus is on scholarships and awards rather than life goals.
bookreview
When asked what she planned to do after college, the usual plans of writing a novel or getting a grant to study in EuThe Bell rope were unable to Jar find her tongue. “‘I $12.95 Perennial don’t know’ I heard Books myself say. I felt a 288 pages deep shock, hearing myself say that, because the minute I said it I knew it was true.” When reading this book, one begins to feel that they are going insane along with Esther. It becomes clear that everyone has a piece of Esther Greenwood inside of them. Although the dark tone of the novel can be depressing, it ends with a feeling of hope. A-
Fans
FROM PAGE C1
Varsity basketball and baseball player Steve Turney and varsity volleyball and basketball player Sara Hunter
“It makes you think beyond what your seeing,” Banta agreed. Besides the two movies, the Wichowski brothers wrote and directed a series of animated films, The Animatrix, and wrote the dialouge and plot to the videogame, Enter the Matrix. Both of these extra additions to the Matrix story line offered new insights into the happenings of the movies. “They tie in excellently,” Banta said. “ The video game and the Animatrix tie in so well, they really expanded on what the general public knows.” While Reloaded, in the eyes of many, paled in comparision to the first Matrix, expectations are high. Many attribute the lack of critical aclaim to Reloaded to be caused by
success of its predecessor. “I think part of it was the frist Matrix was so new and revolutionary and you can’t copy that,” Fry said. But, Fry has high expections for Revolutions. “If you do it right the third movie should be the best,” he said. Banta feels that the second one increased his excitement for the final chapter. “I thought it was an excellent cliff hanger,” he said. “It gave me the feeling like at the end of Empire Strikes Back, it makes you really want to see the next movie.” The Matrix: Revolutions opened globaly in the box office last Wednesday and is playing at the Cinemark and Carmike.
c3
friday, nov. 7
Entertainment Editor: Jake Rubin
page
One-acts next up for Thespians Little rest for drama group after fall musical by Rachel Tenney
Reporter
Humorous, action-packed, scary, touching and, well... bizarre. These are just a few of the words that can be used to describe the “One-Act Festival,” a production put on by Rocky’s actors and actresses every winter. After the fall musical, many actors also participate in these. The show consists of a series of three or four different short, one-act plays that last around two hours altogether. The thing that makes the festival unique is that it is produced entirely by students. “They’re student-directed by seniors,” said teacher and drama director Larissa Cron. “They choose their own show, their own cast, and they’re in charge of directing, scheduling, and arranging all the costuming and technical aspects.” Each play usually has anywhere from two to 15 parts, so the setting is small and inti-
mate. auditions were then held and Last year’s plays had themes the plays cast. and stories ranging everywhere Senior Jonah Byrne is exited from a hilarious family feud, to and honored to be a part of the a black-hole carwash, to a psy- festival this year. chopath artistic genius, and a “The One-Acts are definitely sex-crazed maid and butler. gonna rock out hard core,” This year ’s production is ex- Byrne said. “They’re just the pected to be equally entertain- rockinest tradition of Rocky ing. Mountain, and I “They’re going to be pledge to maina very diverse, quality tain the rock and collection of shows, roll!” Cost: $2 directed by quality diByrne’s onerectors,” said Cron. act, titled “Riddle When: Dec. 10 Cron is also adding in the Sand,” is a and Dec. 11 a new twist to the fesstory about a Brit7 p.m. to 9 p.m. tival this year by ish detective. It’s keeping the producsomewhat of a Where: Mini tion down to three murder mystery theater one-acts and adding comedy, he said. an improvisation Another, digroup that will perform for a rected by senior Erik Pinkston, few minutes between each is titled “Used Car for Sale,” play. and is a drama about a lonely Seniors turned in applica- old man who lives in his car tions along with the play they with a pet parakeet. would like to direct, and the The man puts a used car ad three directors were chosen by in the local newspaper, but inCron at the end of October. The stead of selling the car, he only
BUSY BUSY ACTORS: Seniors Brenden Kenedy and Erin Vohries (left) perform in a dress rehearsal of Oklahomla. Below the males of the play perform a song. Actors such as these have been busy between finishing the musical and begining the Oneacts.
one-acts
SARAH RUPERT
wants to talk to the people that come to see it. The last, directed by senior Amy Davis, is a comedy titled “Laundry and Bourbon,” and follows the relationships of three middle-aged Texan
Local movie theaters struggle to survive by Mike Schneider
Contributor
Since the closure of the Campus West movie theater and the $1 price hike at Cinema Saver 6, second-run movie theaters are becoming hard to come by. On Sept. 29, Campus West closed its doors to the public due to the competition of bigger theaters. The theater was known for its cheap tickets; even cheaper than “making it a Blockbuster night.” It was the smallest theater in town with only two screens, but it boasted the largest screen in Fort Collins. Math teacher Derek Widmier remembers going to Campus West as a teenager and wishes that it had not shut down. “I’d like to see the local theaters do well,” said Widmier. Sharing the opinion of most
I don’t really care. They only showed two movies and the ceiling leaked. I went there once after it snowed and they had buckets set up to catch the drips from the roof. -Mariel Ring, senior, on the closing of Campus West theater
students, senior Mariel Ring isn’t too disappointed at all the see Campus West gone. “I don’t really care,” said Ring. “They only showed two movies and the ceiling leaked. I went there once after it snowed and they had buckets set up to catch the drips from the roof.” According to an article in the Coloradoan, the owners, Rex and Lonna Miller have many other businesses across Fort Collins and their movie theater was at the bottom of their list. They hope to turn the building into about five different “food-
oriented” businesses. As a result of Campus West’s closing, Cinema Saver 6, now the only discount movie theater in the city, has raised its evening show prices from two to three dollars. According to employee Alecia Asher, who is a senior, the change was “strictly business.” “When Campus West was open, they got movies before us,” Asher said. “By then they had most of our business.” Even though the name of the theater is Cinema Saver 6, many people refered to it as “the twodollar theater.” Annoyed cus-
tomers complain to Asher almost everyday. “You’re not the two dollar theater anymore,” Asher said, mocking a typical customer. Senior Laura Patterson agrees with these customers and says that she won’t be going there as often as she used to. “I think it’s stupid because everyone calls it ‘the two dollar movie theater’ and then they change it,” said Patterson. Who knows if a price change will lose business for the former “two dollar theater,” but there is no doubt that their prices are still a steal. “I think it’s fine,” said Ring. “It’s still way cheaper than other theaters and even cheaper than going to Blockbuster, renting a movie, and playing all the late fines.”
women: a stuck-up Southern Baptist, a vulnerable pushover and an airhead comedian. The One-Act Festival will be performed on Dec. 10 and 11 at 7 p.m. and will run approximately two hours long.
topten This month’s topic: How to tell you’ve eaten too much Halloween candy 10. Your farts smell like chocolate 9. Your sweating nougat 8. Your hand has 4 fingers and a butter finger 7. Oompa Loompas are your designated drivers 6. You get arrested for trying to eat a little kid dressed up as an M&M 5. Honeymoon destination: Hershey, Pennsylvania 4. Post-honeymoon destination: fat camp 3. After looking at your teeth, your dentist has a heart attack 2. Jenny Craig slaps you in the face 1. You didn’t just taste the rainbow, you ate the whole thing Compiled by Erik Pinkston, Jake Rubin and Steve Turney
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comingsoon movies Nov. 7 •Elf Nov. 14 •Looney Tunes: Back in Action •Tupac: Resurrection Nov. 21 •The Cat in the Hat •Gothika Nov. 26 •Bad Santa •Love Actually •The Haunted Mansion Dec. 5 •Honey •The Last Samuria Dec. 12 •Stuck on You
music Nov. 9 •Nick Lachey – Soulo •Stone Temple Pilots – Thank You Nov. 18 •Britney Spears – In the Zone •Blink 182 – Blink 182 •G-Unit – Beg for Mercy Nov. 25 •Jay-Z – The Black Album •Korn – Take a Look in the Mirror Dec. 2 •Alicia Keys – The Diary of Alicia Keys •The Offspring – Splinter Dec. 9 •Ruben Studdard – Soulful •Hoobastank – The Reason
video Nov. 11 •Dumb and Dumberer: When Harry Met Lloyd •Terminator 3: Rise of the Machines Nov. 18 •The Santa Clause 2 •Lara Croft Tomb Raider: The Crandle of Life Nov. 25 •X2: X-Men United •Bruce Almighty Dec. 2 •Pirates of the Caribbean •Daddy Day Care Dec. 9 •Bay Boys II •How to Deal
concerts Nov. 15 •Korn & Limp Bizkit: Magness Nov. 16 •Obie Trice & Bubba Sparxxx: Gothic Nov. 17 •Maroon 5: Fillmore Nov. 21 •Chavelle: Fox Dec. 1 •Shania Twain: Pepsi Dec. 9 •311, Offspring, Switchfood...Denver Coliseum Dec. 18 •Jason Mraz: Boulder
Friday, November 7
100 years ago, on Dec. 17, two brothers launched a winged craft with a small engine and safely maneuvered it around a field outside of Kitty Hawk, North Carolina. At the time, few knew that the brothers, Orville and Wilbur, would go down in history as having...
Invention of airplane momentous
Students take flight in the Wright direction by Debra Williams
Reporter
by Sarah Rupert
Art Editor
Who would have thought that two men who ran a bicycle repair shop could have changed history and the way people live forever? Orville and Wilbur Wright were the two pioneers who made human flight possible. Performing their first flying experiments on kites for about three years, they started developing more technical aerodynamic controls. On Dece. 17, 1903, the Wrights made the first controlled powered flight ever. Next, they made improvements on what they had already created for a more practical version. “This (the invention of flight) is huge because it is a new idea from nothing,” said history teacher Kurt Knierim. “Realizing a dream people had since the time of da Vinci.” The Wright brothers’ passion for flight changed the course of history, including the economy, wars, and everyday life. “They build upon one another, with the Wright brothers in flight, we move into war time advances, and then we moved into telecommunication advances, to pretty much what airplanes have become today, as kind of sky buses to move us globally,” said history teacher John Robinson. The invention of the airplane and the evolution of it have impacted how people move around the country, as well. “It used to be that people never moved more than 30 miles from where they were born. But if you look at my generation, and your generation specifically, we’re a global community now,” said Robinson. “People can move not just across the nation, but they can move internationally now.” As Wilbur Wright once said in 1899, “I am convinced that human flight is possible and practical.” He had no idea how right he was.
aerospace
museums Wings over the Rockies
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It’s a bird, it’s a plane, it’s.... Lindsi McVay? McVay, a senior, is training for her pilot’s license. McVay’s passion was born at a young age. “My stepfather worked near the Fort Collins-Loveland airport when I was a little kid, and every time I saw an airplane take off, I imagined flying it,” McVay said. “When I was 14, I went down to the Fort Collins Airport and said I wanted lessons.” According to McVay, there is a romantic aspect that can only be understood by those who have flown. “Flying makes me feel as if I’m a bird, free and soaring,” McVay said. McVay is not the only student infatuated with flight. Mike Belcher, senior, has had his glider pilot’s license since he was 16. “When I fly, I feel like I have complete control and I am totally free,” Belcher said. “No one can touch me when I am that high up. I love to look down at the scenery, especially in the evening at sunset.” McVay’s favorite experience with flight was learning to to stall a plane, which is turning the engine off and gliding. “Taking those steps meant that I was a lot closer to getting my license,” McVay said. “I haven’t got it yet, but I’m working on it.”
Aerospace classes continue tradition by Kelly Reingardt
Reporter
As more kids look into the field of piloting, the Aerospace Science class fills up. This class teaches the principles of flight, aircraft control, navigation, and space travel. Many students find this class as a way to explore their interests in flight. John Fialko, who has taught the class for many years, believes that it applies to a certain amount of students. “In class I have had students who are going to attend the Air Force Academy, CU, or other Aeronautics schools,” said Fialko. Jeff Bibbey, the teacher of the class this year, feels that it is important to teach becasue of its
impact on the economy. “Aerospace is a key technology to the function of our culture and economy,” said Bibbey. “Aerospace is a large employer in industry and there is always something new going on.” As aerospace is constantly changing, so are the people who are involved with the technolgy. “This technology seems to have drawn unique people to it,” said Fialko. “It is important for some of us to dream of things to come.” As those dreams of students slowly come true, many begin to see aerospace’s effects both past and present. “It has made the world smaller,” said Fialko, “and made it possible for us to reach the stars.”
rockysports
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Friday, November 7
Sports Editor: Steve Turney
Steve Turney
Fistfight in a Phonebooth
Speedos impact male swimming Everyone loves going to the pool during the summer when it’s 100 degrees outside. But sometimes there is always that one male who has decided that his duty is to ruin the experience for everyone who can see him. Yes, it is him, “The Speedo Guy.” “The Speedo Guy” has already decided that he doesn’t care about the reputation that wearing a Speedo gives. When you think about the reputation of a Speedo, you usually think of words like “crazy,” “what the,” and “avert your eyes.” With this worldwide reputation for a male “garment,” one question is raised with much suspicion: How many potentially great male swimmers through the years never got into competitive swimming because of the Speedo? Let’s start with cutting the field in half right away because we are only talking about men in this situation. We can cut the male field in half, as well, because when you are young you tend to know whether or not you are going to be an athlete and play sports or not. Then we have to rule out the stereotypical “fat kids” because not many kids who are overweight tend to dream about being Olympian swimmers. So now we are down to the male, athletic, “non-fat” kids. We can’t really break it down much further than that except for maybe one more category. If you’re a young man and you hear the word Speedo, you can have one of two mindsets. You have either the “Slightly Homophobic” mindset, or the “Who Cares?” mindset. So the potential Speedo wearers might be the athletic, non-fat males with the Who Cares? mindset. So as you can see, the Speedo most likely has had an impact on the sport of men’s swimming because only a percentage of the athletic, nonfat males with the Who Cares? mindset will actually take up swimming. So if you turn on the TV in 20 years and find out that men’s swimming is no longer an Olympic sport, do not be surprised. You will know it was because of one thing and one thing only: the Speedo. Steve Turney is a senior and the Sports Editor for the Highlighter.
STATE CHAMPIONS FLYING HIGH: Junior Haleigh Schofield flips over the top bar during her uneven bars routine at Rocky. Schofield led the Lobos to a state championship as well as winning two individual titles.
Reingardt gives perspective
by Kelly Reingardt
Reporter
Winning state was amazing. Winning was one of the best feelings I have ever felt as a gymnast. I can’t believe that we did it. I can’t believe that this happened to our team. We have worked so hard for this. The team has put in countless hours perfecting every routine; making sure we were ready. I believe that we deserved this. Jump to Gymnastics, page d4
STEVE TURNEY
Gymnasts take state
by Steve Turney
Sports Editor
The gymnastics team has become the 2003 state champions once again, and they did it in amazing fashion. The Lobos went into the state competition on Oct 31, knowing that only one team stood in their way of a potential title: Loveland High School. Jump to Champs, page d4
E A Z HA E
DZ
Coaches, teachers share hazing experiences from way back when by Steve Turney
Sports Editor
Playing Twister naked, running through a field in your underwear, or even being forced to perform “atomic situps” can seem harmless when you think about possible initiations athletes may endure. However, nearly dying after consuming massive amounts of alcohol, being sodomized by upperclassmen in the locker room, and even being forced to perform sexually-related acts with teammates are just a few of the real and terribly dangerous hazing rituals athletes go through all over the country. “Hazing can be very dangerous,” assistant football coach Derek Widmier said. “I knew a guy in college who was a
baseball player, and he slid headfirst into home plate after they had put the sprinklers on the field. He actually got paralyzed from it too.” That happened in 1990 at the University of Northern Colorado. Kevin Wolitsky, who was 18 at the time, was left paralyzed with a broken neck after the incident. The coach insisted that the incident was “horseplay,” not hazing.
Asst. Sports Editor
If you have ever experienced an atomic wedgie, which may include having your underwear pulled up and over your head, chances are that you have been involved in an initiation. Even though it sounds unfavorable, some initiations can be fun, harmless, and a traditional experience in high school athletics that kids like. “I think they’re funny and a positive thing,” said senior wrestler Dan Martin. “Plus,
22%
Jump to Hazing, page d4
Lobo players can’t escape hazing by Joey Murphey
surveysays of students been part 42% have of a hazing
everybody likes them when they get older.” Initiations are usually done to newcomers as an acceptance ritual. The Webster’s Dictionary defines initiation as a ceremony by which a person is initiated into a fraternity, club, etc. It can be related to seniority because initiations are mostly done to young players on a team. Once those freshmen or sophomores become seniors, it’s their turn to initiate the newcomers. The different kinds of initiations are numerous.
Examples include making the youngsters shave their heads or stick their legs in ice water, etc. “ I don’t have a n y problem Jump to Escape, page d4
58% 25%
think that hazing/ initiation is just for fun think a hazing of students do and an they not feel initiation are are at risk for different being downloaded think initiations and hazing have become worse think the
are 33% initiators responsible 266 students surveyed GRAPHIC BY JAKE RUBIN
d2: sports
friday, nov. 7
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Sports Editor: Steve Turney
Football season ends in bitter cold
by Joey Murphey
Asst. Sports Editor
The football team got tackled short from making it to the 5A state playoffs. “We were just a step away from winning a lot of games,” said senior Stephen Holwegner. “We had a lot of young kids and a lot of them stepped up and played really hard. But the main thing was that we had a lot of fun.” The young players will have to carry the load in the future, and a few players in particular really stepped up. Junior Sky Tyler rushed for over 750 yards, including a 249yard game against Dakota Ridge High School where he set a new school record for the longest run from scrimmage with a 96-yard TD run. Sophomore quarterback Jared Houghton threw for 972 yards through nine games for the Lobos, but more importantly, gained valuable experience for the future. Junior wide receiver Brian Eggers was another bright spot, emerging as a reliable receiver. Eggers had 103 yards receiving in a game against Pomona
STEVE T URNEY
O CAPTAIN, MY CAPTIAIN: Sophomore Travis Bundy and seniors Zach Miller, Daniel Pahlau, and Alex Nickel walk to midfield before a game for the coin toss. The Lobos season ended with a 29-0 loss to Legacy, and an overall record of 3-7.
earlier this year. For the defense, sophomore Travis Bundy came into his own and proved to be a very good
linebacker, getting more than 50 tackles throughout the season, and also blocking two punts in a 31-21 win over Horizon.
The team’s record at the end of the season was 2-4 in conference and 3-7 overall. The season seemed like it was
Wheat Ridge tops Lobos
DUGOUT TALK: Left, freshman Jamie Windsor looks on with sophomore Brianne MacIntyre from the dugout during a game. Below, junior Mo Coker yells encouragement to her team. The Lobos were conference champs, but ended their season with a 10 loss to Wheat Ridge during the regional round of the state playoffs.
Softball season ends in loss to defending champs by Trent Wahlfeldt
Contributor
Sometime during their high school softball careers, both Danny Murphy and Julia Kloppe must have thought they would be holding a state championship trophy. However, the two seniors and the Lobos fell short again this year of winning state, falling in the quarterfinal round. “We were disappointed, but I think we should have been satisfied,” said Kloppe, who finished the year with an impressive .493 batting average. “Fifth is pretty good, but we could have gone further.” The softball team’s final loss in the class 5A state tournament was 1-0 and it came to Wheat Ridge High School, the 2002 champs, who ended up successfully defending their title after beating Smoky Hill High School, 3-1, in the championship game. “It was a really close game and we had a lot of chances,” Kloppe said. “But it just wasn’t our day.”
With an 18-5 overall record, the softball team was a little disappointed with the outcome. “We set our goals to definitely get in the final four, if not win state,” said coach Jeff Michie. After winning districts, the team won their first game against Standley Lake High School in the state playoff round of 16 in a come-from-behind effort, 3-1. Kloppe hit a threerun home run in the fifth inning to give them the edge in their first game of the tournament. “We were going in there expecting to win,” said Murphy, the Lobos’ top pitcher with a season record of 17-3 and an ERA of .58. “After the first game we weren’t expecting such tough competition. We weren’t expecting to lose the first day. We couldn’t get over the hump even though we had the best team in the past three years.” In the last three years, the Lobos, led by Kloppe and Murphy, captured three Northern Conference championships and made three appearances in the “Sweet 16,”
going to be an uphill battle after the team lost its first four games. But the team fought back and won the next three of four games. The team then ended its season losing to the first- and second-ranked teams in the Front Range League. The games were against cross-town rival Poudre, in which they lost 28-7, and a loss to undefeated Legacy, 29-0. “I think we’ve done some really good things,” said head coach Tom Smailes. “We’ve been exceptionally competitive throughout conference with the exception of Northglenn. We weren’t competitive in that game.” The team did accomplish some goals. They won the homecoming game against Thornton, 42-7, which is always an important game to win. Holwegner says the team accomplished their goals of having fun and hitting (tackling) some kids. “We have established things for the future,” Smailes said. “When you’re retooling and reloading, you have to be patient with those type of things.”
E RIK PINKSTON
as well as boasting many weeks in the 5A state rankings. Although they were disappointed in the finish, the team’s accomplishments were still something to be proud of. “We had a great season,” Kloppe said. “We won conference and districts so that’s always a good way to end.” As for next year, the team loses four seniors, one that will
be Colorado Player of the Year (Kloppe) and another who was an honorable mention all-state (Murphy). But that also means that they are getting back many players with a lot to look forward to, and Michie knows rebuilding a team is a part of every offseason and will only make the team stronger. “We have quite a bit to build,” Michie said.
‘Fire’ season extinguished by Joey Murphey
Asst. Sports Editor
The fire was put out in the quarter finals of state, bringing the field hockey season to a tough, somewhat fulfilling end. The Fire field hockey team was beaten in a quarterfinal game against Colorado Academy by a score of 2-1. The team did, however, finish fifth in state with a very impressive record of 5-4-2 for conference and 6-6-4 overall. “We dominated the entire game, they got a couple of shots off and they happened to score
on one of them,” said senior Jaime Schilling. “Even their coach and a bunch of their parents came over and said that we deserved to win the game. They got lucky.” According to Schilling, this season was the best season the team has ever had. Schilling was the team’s leading scorer with 10 goals. Everyone worked well together and everyone was best friends on the team which contributed to their teamwork. “It (the season) was our best ever in many respects,” said
coach Tami Agne-Moehle. “We were very cohesive, very balanced, very determined, and even though we lost the quarterfinal, we played the game of our lives.” It was the first year with fouryear seniors and the team experienced the impact of their presence. According to AgneMoehle, the seniors will be greatly missed. “We continue to grow and accomplish everything that we set our minds to,” said AgneMoehle. “I think there’s a bright future ahead.”
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friday, nov. 7
Sports Editor: Steve Turney
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Refs come in ‘handy’ in soccer loss Sports Editor
Once again this year, the boys’ soccer team walked off the field knowing their season was over, and the same question from previous years was still bouncing around in their heads: “What happened?” The Lobos ended the season with an 8-7-1 overall record (54-1 conference). The team ended up getting third in conference, falling short to Collins and Poudre, two teams that the Lobos failed to win against this year. The Lobos were 0-3-1 against its cross-town rivals. But the Lobos did not lack talent this year; the team simply just couldn’t find a way to pull out wins in big games, especially in state. “I think the Cherry Creek game was pretty much a microcosm of our season,” senior Nick Ewing said of the Creek game. “We had the opportunity to be good, and we
Cross country teams finish season strong by Joey Murphey
Asst. Sports Editor
The boys’ and girls’ cross country teams crossed the finish line in good positions to end their seasons. “You couldn’t have written a better story. It couldn’t have ended any better,” said head coach Bob Parry. “Everybody finished on a high note, and it was a good experience.” The girls’ team finished fourth overall and the boys’ team finished eighth overall at the 5A state meet at El Pomar Sports Complex in Colorado Springs. The girls’ fourth-place finish was helped by sophomore Dani Parry’s fifth-place finish. The team score was 150 points, based on the top five finishes of Parry, freshmen Ellie Rastall (23rd), McKynzie Maher (27th), Emily Felton (43rd), and Alysse Fawcett (52nd). The team’s goal of going back to state and improving upon their 12th place finish last year was accomplished. “We all ran really well,” said Dani. “Our team got along really well and it was a good season overall.” The boys’ team had the same goal as the girls. By accumulating 271 points, the boys were able to accomplish this goal too. The top finisher for Rocky was junior Aaron Braun, who finished 12th overall with a time of 15:47.3. The team was able to obtain its eighth-place rank from the top five finishes of Braun, juniors Wil Buchanan (16th), Cody Bordewyk (57th), and sophomores Jeff Dailey (74th) and Alex Grim (112th). “We beat our goal and we were all pretty happy with that,” said Braun. “We all had a lot of fun. Everyday was a new adventure.”
playoffs and sending the stunned Lobos home. “It definitely puts a damper on the season,” senior Keyan Bondhus said about the call at the Cherry Creek game. “I’m still pretty bitter about the loss. If we would have came out and played our hardest and just got beat, I would have been more okay with that, instead of coming out and playing our hardest and then getting screwed by the refs.” Though it may look like it on DEBRA WILLIAMS paper, the Lobos didn’t have a CORNERKICK KING: Senior Jason Frei takes a cornerkick earlier in the season. terrible season. Head coach The Lobos ended their season with a 3-2 overtime loss to Cherry Creek. Mark Whitman knows the just made a few mistakes that Bruins into a sudden death season wasn’t what they hoped made us a mediocre team overtime period. The Lobos for, but it wasn’t a total loss and instead of a really good team.” caught the short end of the stick there were still things to learn Everything was looking good when an unintentional handball from. “It’s a little disappointing,” for the team as they held a 2-0 in the penalty box gave the lead against Creek going into Bruins a chance to end the Whitman said. “Overall, some the final 10 minutes of the game, Lobos’ season with a penalty of the goals we had we achieved, and we played well. then things started to unravel. kick. Cherry Creek scored twice in The Bruins did just that. They We just never really reached our the final seven minutes of the scored on the penalty kick, potential. It’s not quite what we game, sending the Lobos and propelling them further into the expected.”
Whitman will have to learn some news faces next year because the team will graduate 10 seniors in May. But Whitman is looking forward to it and knows the program will continue to improve. “Losing 10 seniors you’d think that you’ll be hurt, “ Whitman said about the future of the program. “But there’s still a pretty strong core. There are a lot of guys who gained experience this year.” Junior Randy Albertz ended the season as the team’s leading scorer with 10 goals and will most likely be one of the top players in the conference next year. The team will look to juniors Randy Albertz, Chris Wright, and Bodie Roybal to be the leaders of the team as seniors next year. Hopefully helping the team further along next year than the first round of state.
Deutscher to wed Windsor coach by Steve Turney
Sports Editor
Most of the time celebrity marriages tend not to work out, but the chances for two former Rocky basketball coaches staying together forever are more likely. “We met in the weight room after school,” Rocky teacher Tanya Deutscher spoke of her fiancé. “He looked up my number here at Rocky and gave me a call, and we went out on our first date.” Deutscher, 26, has been at Rocky for four years and coached basketball for the girls’ C team for three years, but will not be coaching this year. Her beau is former Rocky boys’ basketball assistant Monty Alcarez. Alcarez, who is 35, was a coach at Rocky for 11 years under legendary coach Ken Shaw. Alcarez is beginning his third year as the head boys’ basketball coach at Windsor High School. Alcarez led the Wizards to the 4A state semifinals last year. “I had seen him because I went to basketball games,” Deutscher said. “I thought he was cute, so there was an attraction right away.” Deutscher and Alcarez have been together somewhat off and on for almost three and a half
years. Even though they had shared differences in the past, Alcarez feels that it was important to where they are now as a couple. “I’m not as outgoing as she is, which can be a good thing,” Alcarez said. “It’s not always good to find someone just like you.” Something the couple always had in common was a passion for basketball and athletics. One time, Alcarez even gave Deutscher a clever ultimatum and told her that he would not go out with her if she could not make 7 of 10 free throws. Not wanting to lose Alcarez on a silly bet, Deutscher calmly sank all 10 free throws. Although they both have strong passions for sports, that was not all that they saw in each other. “She’s attractive and has great family values,” Alcarez said of his soon-to-be-bride. “She’s also really close to her family, she’s an extremely patient person, and a great listener, as well.” Alcarez asked for Deutscher’s hand in marriage this past August in a well thought-out plan that he organized quite a while before. “I had been bugging him to see a play, and he said he had gotten some free tickets from a friend and we’d get free dinner
GOIN’ TO THE CHAPEL AND WE’RE, GOING TO GET MARRIED: Rocky teacher and former basketball coach Tanya Deutscher and her soon-tobe husband, and Windsor basketball coach, Monty Alcarez get their engagement photo taken. Alcarez and Deutscher are planning to get married July 3 at Ptarmigan. Both are former Rocky basketball coaches. COURTESY OF TANYA D EUTSCHER
and a theater,” Deutscher talked about the night she was proposed to. “We went to dinner and the waitress brought champagne and said ‘the gentleman ordered it’.” Deutscher started to get a little nervous because she was suspecting that maybe he was going to ask her. “He lied a lot to try and divert my attention,” Deutscher said. “Then we talked for like 15 minutes. Then he came around
the table and then he proposed to me.” Alcarez and Deutscher plan to marry July 3 at Ptarmigan. Alcarez will return to Rocky’s hardwood on Dec. 20 when he will lead his Wizards in a nonconference game against Rocky. Winsdor beat Rocky last in 2002. The future game leaves one question up in the air: Will Deutscher be cheering for her fiancé Alcarez or for the school she coached and works for?
of Prou RM nd HS sp vo ons lle ors yb all
by Steve Turney
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Page Editor: Steve Turney
Friday, November 7
WHAT TIME IS IT? GAME TIME!: Team starters (left) gather and join hands for a pregame ritual before a game against Ponderosa on Oct 25. Senior Amanda Lawler (far right) helps up senior teammate Sara Hunter at the end of a point. The Lobos hosted districts at Rocky on Oct. 25. The team won 2 of 3 matches and lost a heartbreaker to Cherry Creek (16-14 in the fifth game of the title game that determined seeding and location for regionals). However, the Lobos beat Ponderosa and Durango at districts, advancing to regionals, which took place at Grandview on Nov. 1. The Lobos advanced out of regionals to play with seven other surviving teams today in the final rounds of the state competition.
Volleyball state run begins today by Steve Turney
Sports Editor
The volleyball team is playing at state today at the Denver Coliseum in Denver. The Lobos are one of only eight teams left in the state tournament, and the Lobos are poised heading into the tournament but know that it won’t be an easy road by any means to the state title. “We are pretty excited that we made it this far again,” senior Esther Johnson said of the team. “We found out that Cherry Creek and Doherty are in our pool, so we feel pretty confident that we can play against both of them and come out first in our pool.” The Lobos lost to Cherry Creek during districts two weekends ago, but the Lobos are confident that they can beat them. Considering they lost in five games and they came back from being two games down to nearly win. but the fifth game was lost 16-14. The Lobos are tied for sixth in state in points off serves with Douglas County with 808 total this season. Additionally, they are also ranked sixth in state with 748 kills. Even though they are ranked very high in lots of statistical categories, they still know that actions speak louder than words, and that their play will STEVE T URNEY dictate the outcome. STEPPING STONE: Sophomore Katelyn Hampson, senior Carly Worthington, junior Denise Ondaro, and junior Brandy “I just think everyone needs to Newton gather around head coach Krista Swartz. The Lobos are playing at the Denver Coliseum today in the final round of play their best game,” Johnson play with only eight teams remaining in the tournament. said. “We’re going to have to FROM PAGE
Hazing
As of right now, only eight of the country’s 50 states do not have specific anti-hazing laws. Those states are Alaska, Arizona, Hawaii, Montana, Michigan, South Dakota, Vermont, and Wyoming. History and geography teacher Satini Liufau grew up in Honolulu, Hawaii, but never endured any type of hazing or initiation when it came to high school sports. Even when he played college football at CSU, he never suffered any type of hazing. “You were expected to pick up plates of the upperclassmen,” Liufau said. “If you were sitting somewhere they wanted to sit, you had to move. Those kind of things. But not hazing rituals where they made you run around school naked or anything.” Health teacher Jo Lacricchio played volleyball for four years at CSU and experienced athletics in a different light than Liufau did. “As my career progressed, I noticed it more and more that the seniors would play practical jokes on the young people,” Lacricchio said as she reflected on her time at CSU. “They’d
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make them feel humiliated, make them feel unwelcome, or made them feel less than what they were. And to me, in any event, it’s not a healthy practice.” It is well known that these incidents are dangerous and split a team apart rather than bring them together. “The biggest thing that I feel is that it’s fear-based,” Lacricchio added. “I think it’s something that puts someone else down just so you feel better. Team-building is the way to go, not team put-downs.” Initiation is the term that tends to be used when it comes to these cases, but nonetheless, initiations are a form hazing. Although it is tough to truly define the difference between an initiation and a hazing, it’s sad that there is tolerance for these acts until someone is severely hurt either physically or emotionally. “You have to be very careful about how you do it (hazing),” Widmier said. “There’s a lot of dangerous things that can happen. Instead of pulling pranks on them and things like that, you have to try to look for other ways to bond.”
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Escape
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with athletic teams doing initiations as long as they are appropriate,” said Athletic Director Wayne Moddelmog. “I don’t believe that initiations are a bad thing. In some cases they are a part of a program.” A question that emerges from this problem is, what is the line between initiations and hazings? Many people have different views on the subject. “I’d say hazing is when a person starts crying,” said Martin. “As long as no one is crying, it’s fine.” On Oct. 8, a hazing incident occurred at ThunderRidge High School. According to Lt. Tim Moore, a spokesman for the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office, the incident is being investigated as unlawful sexual contact by three varsity football players against two members of the freshman football team. Unlawful sexual contact typically mean groping or inappropriate touching. “If it (initiation) is something that is harmful to an individual, whether it be physically or emotionally, then it is inappropriate,” said Moddelmog of hazings. “You have to draw the line at that.”
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pretty much play flawlessly, which we all believe, and the coaches believe we can do.” Entering today with a 20-6 record, the team doesn’t think playing against tough competition they have lost to before makes the opponent intimidating. In fact,the team feeds off pressure. They’ll need to perform under pressure in order to advance far today, they might need to avenge losses earlier in the season to teams like Creek, Doherty, Heritage, and Grandview. “It gets us excited and keeps us focused at the same time,” Johnson said about battling when the pressure is on. “Everyone should come out, it should be a good weekend.” FROM P AGE D1
Gymnastics It wouldn’t have been possible if we had not been such a wonderful team. We worked so well together and had so much fun. Teamwork is what led us to a state championship. Of course, we wanted to win state. But that was not our goal going into this meet. That is not the way championships are won. We went in there with three distinct goals: stay focused, have fun, and get the job done.
Champs
This year is quite different than when I was a freshman. When the state title happened then, I didn’t understand the significance of the whole thing. I didn’t understand why when we won people were crying. It was only a state competition. As a senior now, winning state in your last year is one of the best feelings ever. You know that no matter what happens you can graduate saying that you were a state champ.
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Loveland beat them earlier in the season, but when the Lobos had to sit and watch Loveland perform their beam routines, they knew that had the title. “It was very, very exciting since we didn’t have to wait for the finish,” coach Tami Thomas said. “We had done really well, and Loveland had to get such a high score on their beam, that we kind of knew we had it.” Overall, the Lobos were the best team in the state. Considering they had the second highest total score in
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state history, 186.1. (Loveland 184.6) “I was really happy and excited,” sophomore Danielle Phebus said. “We’re not really a team, we’re more like best friends. It was really awesome.” This was the team’s first state championship since 2000. They were led by junior Haleigh Schofield and a great team attitude. “Cohesive,” Thomas said describing her team. “ Whether they were competing or watching, they were always together as a team.”