Rocky Mountain Dec. 10, 2010
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Volume 38, No. 4
The end of LimeWire Limelight, B8
The hidden gems of FoCo Center indepth, B4-5
Everything as far as you can see -John Denver, Rocky Mountain High Rocky Mountain High School 1300 W. Swallow Rd. Fort Collins, Colo. 80526
Obama eyes school year length by Regan Miller Reporter
Photo Illustration by Tess Halac
FCA experiences turmoil by Doug Watterson Reporter
Fellowship of Christian Athletes has been a long running and influential group for some time at school but has faced legal challenges as of recent. After 14 years at the helm of FCA, teacher Mike Dyer and other FCA leaders will no longer be able to lead the group during lunch, their
normal meeting time, due to district policy on studentinitiated clubs. According to activities director Tyler Thomas, since FCA is not a school-funded club, it falls into the studentinitiated club category. The only leadership opportunities available in student-initiated clubs are solely for current Jump to FCA, page A3
Separation of church and state at a crossroads by Ramsey Nicholas Editorial editor
As the world proceeds into the 21st century, American society is becoming more and more religiously diverse, Front especially in the public school setting. In order for public schools to function, a tradition of separating religious beliefs from the secular needs of education for all has been developed over the years,
Special
Quoted directly: “Life is full of all kinds of crevasses. Mine was a crack in the ice, but there are other crevasses like illness, financial concerns, natural disasters. That when you face those kinds of challenges, not to give up, to persevere through the challenges and to be resilient to keep engaging with those challenges. Find the strength within yourself to face the challenges and overcome the adversity.” - Jim Davidson, Rocky father on moving past his experiences
and has been supported by the courts. However, even within this well-established practice, the separation rules are often tested, as they have been this year at Rocky. Choir Retreat Earlier this year, during the annual Rocky choir retreat, a socalled “prayer group” was held at night in the girls’ cabin at Camp Buckham. Made up of a number Jump to SEPARATE, page A2
Inside Stuff
President Barack Obama is currently looking to the future concerning students’ education and considering changes to the educational system, including lengthening the school year. Currently, the U.S. has 180 days of school a year. Japan has 243 days of school a year, while South Korea has 220 days. This means that the U.S. has about a month less of school each year. On Sept. 27, Obama was interviewed by the NBC Today Show, and he explained his proposal of possibly lengthening the school year and eliminating poor-performing teachers. “We now have our kids go to school about a month less than most other advanced countries.” Obama said in an interview with the Today Show. “That month makes a difference. It means that kids are losing a lot of what they learned during the school year during the summer.” By extending the school year, Obama plans that students will get a better education, especially the low income students who do not have access to books during the summer break. “There isn’t necessarily a formula,” social studies teacher Satini Liufau said. “I think everybody wants to have a formula, but there isn’t one.” According to Obama, the country is falling behind in both math and science. To help solve this problem, the Obama administration is training 10,000 new math and science teachers in hope to raise the test scores in the country. “The test scores are a reflection of kids who come to school, the kids who want to learn and the kids that don’t care,” sophomore Alex Creighton said. “Students do as well as they want to.” Another topic Obama is foJump to OBAMA page A3
►Rocky father escapes death, to be featured on I Shouldn’t Be Alive. Features, B1 ►Joining the local vs. corporate debate Editorial, A5 ►Lobo Den welcomes new boys’ basketball head coach Jeff Meyer. sports, A6
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Rocky Mountain Highlighter
Tessting the Waters
Tess Halac
Adopt-a-Family about spirit “It wasn’t the reward that mattered or the recognition you might harvest. It was your depth of commitment, your quality of service, the product of your devotion – these were the things that counted in a life. When you gave purely, the honor came in the giving, and that was honor enough.” This quote by Captain Scott O’Grady epitomizes the very spirit of Adopt-a-Family. For the past 15 years, Adopt-a-Family has been embedded in the Rocky culture. It is arguably the school’s most intensive volunteer project, drawing out extraordinarily high participant numbers and a side of selflessness one would normally render impossible in a high school setting. For those who haven’t yet been to a family pickup day, I invite you to attend one, because it is truly one of the most remarkable things you will ever witness. Imagine hundreds of students and teachers willingly filing in to school on an early Saturday morning. Wrapped presents abound the commons; a dressed up Santa banters playfully with the eager kids as each family is given their tremendous Christmas load. Last year 83 families were helped by the Rocky community, and this year 84 families will be given the Christmas of their lives. Anyone who has witnessed the Adopt-a-Family magic probably is wondering why our school doesn’t get some sort of reward or attention for this volunteer feat. However, the nonexistence of such coverage in my opinion is exactly what keeps the Adopt-a-Family spirit thriving. The reason for our altruism is not backed by some sort of accolade; we are simply acting in this way because it is the right thing to do. Maybe this is why Dec. 4’s video announcement upset me so much. During the program, several administrators came on the screen, challenging us to do more and raise more money for Adopt-a-Family. They promised us that if could beat last year’s amounts, we would get Jan. 17 (Martin Luther King Day) off of school. I do not know if this was supposed to be a joke or they were relying on student ignorance, but we already have this day off. If it is the latter, I am severely disappointed in the school’s leadership. Not only is such a promise completely undermining the spirit of Adopt-a-Family, it also destroys the integrity of MLK day. I am aware that the majority of students will not be spending the 17th honoring King. However, in my opinion it is just as bad that the administration is encouraging this behavior by dangling the day in front of us like it’s some sort of treat. As tempting as days off of school and other rewards sound, it is best to deny these temptations by the administration, for the sake of ourselves, and Adopt-a-Family. Tess Halac is a senior and Editorin-Chief of the RM Highlighter.
December 10, 2010
National recognition
News
RM Highlighter runs to NSPA Pacemaker award by Regan Miller Reporter
On Nov. 13, the National Student Press Association (NSPA) announced that The Rocky Mountain Highlighter won the prestigious Pacemaker award, the second Pacemaker award in the school newspaper’s history. “In the pond of journalism, this is a pretty big fish,” adviser Stephen Wahlfeldt said. “The Pacemaker is promoted as the Pulitzer Prize in high school journalism.” The only other time that the RM Highlighter won the Pacemaker award was in 2006, but has been a finalist for the award in 2007 and 2009. “When I got the text (that we won a Pacemaker), we just started yelling and screaming,” said 2010 graduate Greg Lewis, who served as co-editor-in-chief last year. “I’m really proud about it.” The award was announced in Kansas City, Mo., where seven of the RM Highlighter staff members accepted the award at the NSPA/ Journalism Education Association Fall National High School Journalism Convention. Wahlfeldt and his wife were also there with the students to accept it. “It was nice to have students there,” Wahlfeldt said. “In 2006, we didn’t take students. It was really good to have the students accept it.” According to the NSPA’s website, the newspaper was judged on the coverage and
Separate from page A1
of the girls in the room, the group contained members of numerous different religions. According to senior Elaina Trousil, who was a choir student on the retreat who did not partake in the prayer group, the girls circled up on one side of the room, held hands, cried and prayed about problems in their personal lives. “A lot of the girls who weren’t participating felt awkward with the situation and uncomfortable being around the open expression of religious beliefs,” Trousil said. According to Trousil, a non-participant even confronted some of the girls in the group, explaining the feelings of discomfort towards the situation. The next morning, the group continued their open expression of faith through song, by playing and singing spiritual music from their iPods. Rocky Mountain choir director Paul Falk said that the girls were taking out their Bibles and reading versus aloud to one another. “I felt like it was a good way for the girls to bond and share ideas and cultures with one another through friendly and welcoming communication,” Falk said. Three of the female chaperones knew about the group, but did not cease the open expression of religion. The rest of directors on the retreat were notified of the group the next morning, and were either aware of the singing or even witnessed it. Senior Kiersten Eden, who partook in the prayer group at first, ended up
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Looking Glass open for submissions The literary magazine The Looking Glass is now accepting submissions for the 2010-2011 issue. The Looking Glass In accepts submissions from every art including literary, musical, and visuals that students and teachers have created. Submissions will be accepted now until Feb. 11. See The Looking Glass adviser Sara Cummings for more details. Fahey Zink
Brief
content, the quality of writing and reporting, leadership on the opinion page, evidence of in-depth reporting, as well as a consistent and clean layout and design. According to NSPA, a total of 328 entries were submitted and 54 were named finalists. The RM Highlighter was among 27 winners from the finalist list. “It’s kind of surprising because the winning papers usually have a huge staff and overall better resources,” said senior Tess Halac, the paper’s current editor-in-chief. “It’s a long shot; even though we have a good paper, it’s just taking it to the next level. It’s a lot of work and it’s so cool to see that work rewarded.” Wahlfeldt has made a promise every year to the RM Highlighter staff that he would pierce his ear or shave his head if the paper took first in the state newspaper sweepstakes competition and won a Pacemaker in the same year. Since this feat was achieved by last year’s paper, Wahlfeldt went to Claire’s Nov. 28 to fulfill his promise. Wahlfeldt now wears a diamond stud in his left ear due to his staff’s accomplishment. “It was frankly embarrassing, but a promise is a promise,” Wahlfeldt said.
I feel more comfortable with people at my church. I can be more open because they have gone through the same things. I think people are just trying to find that in a school setting, as well.
discouraging the continuation of it when she realized the bad location and discomfort of the other girls. “I was comforting the girls on Saturday night when they were crying and stuff,” Eden said. “I told them it was cool that they were doing this (the prayer circle), and that there is nothing wrong with expressing their faith. However, when I heard that the other girls felt left out, I confronted them about it. It’s not a prayer circle, it’s a choir retreat.” Rocky Stocking Every year, Rocky holds a traditional concert normally taking place at the Lincoln Center, which celebrates the holiday season by presenting the musical talents of students. This year, due to the on-going renovation of the Lincoln Center, the mega-church Faith Evangelical Free Church, located off of Shields Street between Harmony Street and Horsetooth Road, offered to host the Dec. 6 Stocking in its large sanctuary. This correlates to the removal of church from public school because the church welcomed Rocky into their home and the school in return accepted the invitation. Like past Stockings held at the Lincoln Center, the concert was open to the general public and tickets were sold for the event.
Kiersten Eden, senior “If a venue is offering to let us play there, why wouldn’t we take advantage of it?” junior and Stocking participant Jazzy Schmich Kinney said. “Sure, I’m not planning to go to church this Sunday, but do I want to play music tonight? I damn well want to play.” Trousil not only attended the choir retreat, but was also a part of the Stocking. She agrees with Schmich Kinney in that it shouldn’t be an issue for the concert to be at a church. “I think its fine that it was at church,” Trousil said. “It was big enough to accommodate all the people that were there. And it was nice of the people who work at Faith E. Free to let us use their church.” The Stocking presents another question regarding the separation of church and state–the performance of religious songs at a school-sponsored activity. Like the venue, performing Christian songs had little impact on both Trousil and Schmich Kinney. “Singing religious songs in choir doesn’t bother me because the music is gorgeous, and it’s supposed to be about the music,” Trousil said. “You don’t have to believe what it is you are singing about.” Teaching Religion in School The struggle of separation of
Elaina Trousil
Celebrating RM Highlighter-style: RM Highlighter students (left) accept the Pacemaker award at the NSPA/JEA Fall High School Journalism Convention in Kansas City. RM Highlighter adviser Stephen Wahlfeldt winces as he gets his ear pierced. Wahlfeldt promised his staff if they ever won state and a Pacemaker in the same year he would get his ear pierced.
church and state is especially prominent in teaching in a classroom. There are a myriad of Supreme Court cases surrounding this issue. One landmark case was Engel v. Vitale (1962). In this cases, the justices determined it unconstitutional for state officials to compose an official school prayer and require its recitation in public schools. Another case was Lemon v. Kurtzman (1971). It was out of this case that the “Lemon test” was established, detailing requirements for legislation about religion. It stated that a government’s action must have a secular legislative purpose, its action neither advances nor inhibits religion, and must not result in an “excessive government entanglement.” There are no black-and-white answers to what a teacher can and cannot teach concerning religion. History teacher Kurt Knierim explained the difficulties of teaching religion without expressing voice or opinion due to these blurred lines. “It’s all about teaching what it is, rather than how it is,” Knierim said. Conclusion The separation of church and state debate will likely see no end. The blurred lines between the two make it hard to decided what is going too far and what is fair. What is undisputed, however, is that students will continue to seek out religious similarities with other students. “I feel more comfortable with people at my church,” Eden said. “I can be more open because they have gone through the same things. I think people are just trying to find that in a school setting, as well.”
Blood drive sees good turnout On Friday, Dec. 3, 50 people represented Rocky at the blood drive. Every year, a blood drive is held around the holidays. The blood drive had a great turn out and was very successful. However, this year, a blood drive competition will be held throughout Fort Collins in the month of April. People will be able to donate blood between 8 and 2 throughout the entire month of April. Geneva Mueller
Mary Willson
We Vant Your Blood: Senior Taylor Baird watches as she gets blood drawn. Baird was one of 50 participants in the annual blood drive.
News
December 10, 2010
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Rocky Mountain Highlighter
Adopt-a-Family in the air Gift-giving project stresses a time to give by Fahey Zink Reporter
In 1996, Jessica MacbethWaters wanted to start a program that would help families in need within the Rocky community. Fourteen years later, Adopta-Family has become a tradition that has shaped this school. Despite this being its 15th year, organizers of the program have stuck with Macbeth-Waters’ original plan to have students donate items in their homeroom that would benefit their family. So far, over 450 families have been a part of the program. “Families have written back to us saying that this is an experience they will never forget,” Adopt-a-Family organizer and counselor Pam Kilness said. “We have moms who have said ‘when we’re in better shape, we’ll pass it forward.’” Added science teacher Glenn Gainley, “Rocky is a family and Adopt-a-Family has become a family tradition for us. It’s built into our culture.” This year, 84 families have
“” Pam Kilness, counselor
People say that it must be a huge job doing this, but we’ve done it so long and we have such a good system that we don’t have problems. We always have enough help.
been adopted and will receive their items on Dec. 11. Last year, 83 families were adopted; donations of cash and gift certificates amounted to more than $10,000 and food, clothing and household items were estimated to be worth $40,000. “People say that it must be a huge job doing this, but we’ve done it so long and we have such a good system and everyone is so committed that we
don’t have problems,” Kilness said. “We always have enough help.” Adopt-a-Family has been student-orientated from the start. Students in their homerooms try to fill as many needs as possible on their families’ checklist and have helped out on the family pickup day. “It’s an amazing thing how the whole school is committed to help out,” said junior Melody Fels, who helped out last year for Adopt-a-Family. “Everyone is full of enthusiasm about the entire thing.” Last year students helped out by setting up the tables for the items donated for the families and about 200 kids came to the donation-receiving day to volunteer to help take the items to them. “There’s been a lot more student involvement in the past five, six years,” Gainley said. “I’ve seen a lot of past graduates come back and help out. People fall in love with it and they don’t want to not be involved with it.” Not only is Rocky donating
Clothes Call: Seniors Shayla Peel and Luke Howard pick out clothes during the Adopt-aFamily shopping period in San Juan. Adopt-aFamily is in its 15th year of running.
Tess Halac
to the cause, but schools such as Olander Elementary and Webber Middle School have also adopted families to help out. The word has also been spread by past teachers or students who have become teachers and
have started their own programs there. “People should help out and donate,” Fels said. “If you’re in a position to help, then you should. It’s worth every cent and every minute.”
FCA from page A1 Rocky students. Groups cannot have a guest speaker come in on a consistent basis. This regulation is particularly hard on FCA, which relies on outside sources to lead their clubs. The policy was adopted and has been in place since 2003, but it was not until this year that the rules were enforced. “The rules were reviewed a few times but were not strictly enforced,” Thomas said. “With other issues surrounding student-led clubs, it was brought up again.” The biggest logistical issue stemmed from Fossil Ridge’s lunch schedule. Fossil has both an A and B lunch during the day, meaning that some academic classes are in session while either A or B lunch takes place. This violates another rule that states student-initiated clubs cannot meet while
any classes are in session. FCA traditionally meets during lunch hours at all four of the city’s high schools. Since the effect of this review and reinforcement was so immediate on FCA, there were many misconceptions that the reason for the rule enforcement was due to the fact that FCA is a Christian group. Thomas made it very clear that this was not the case. “Since FCA relies on outside leaders to come in it had the biggest immediate effect but it was in no way related to the fact that they are a Christian group,” Thomas said. “Every student-initiated club has to follow district policy.” Dyer does not see this as the end of FCA, rather a small hurdle that the group will have to overcome.
Obama from page A1 cusing on consists of new teachers, and the 10,000 math and science teachers is just one step towards this. Obama plans on evaluating teachers by evaluating how effective they are in the classroom. “We need teachers doing their job well but more importantly building relationships,” social studies teacher Todd Matkin said. “Rocky is a unique school. How will the attitude and atmosphere be with professors? Students need to be able to trust their teachers and with an ‘expert’ the students aren’t going to be as comfortable with questions.” Teachers are going to be held accountable for how well they teach in the classroom. This means that teachers are going to be held responsible for how well their students learn. If their teaching style isn’t efficient enough, they will go into training to learn how to do so more effectively. After this, they are put back into the classroom, and if they are still ineffective,
they will be eliminated from staff completely. “In general, there is a lack of efficient curriculum,” sophomore Maddi Lynch said. “We don’t have activities that effectively use student’s time. There needs to be a fix to the basics of curriculum first.” If Obama follows through with this proposal of the extended school year, then other issues may arise. Air conditioning will have to be installed in schools around the country. Teachers are going to have to be paid the extended time in which they are spending at school as well as extending the curriculum which includes a greater budget overall. “I agree that something needs to be done; I just don’t think our country is ready for that change right now,” Lynch said. “There is no plan of extended curriculum, so for that extra month, they would be experimenting with money our economy doesn’t have.”
“I don’t see FCA fading away at all,” Dyer said. “It’s a strong group and it will just require students to step up.” With the added pressure, one of the students who has stepped up is Matt Anderson, now the president of FCA and is assigned to leading the meetings for the group. For over 14 years, FCA Doug Watterson has been strengthening inTalking about God: Senior and Fuse president Matt Anderson dividuals’ faith and showing leads a discussion during the club’s meeting. Fuse and FCA were them that they are not alone recently in danger of being shut down. in their mission. minded people,” Dyer said. “With FCA, I think many students Even with the current issues due to find that their faith is not only something district rules, FCA plans to use their strong they believe strongly in, but it gives them faith to pull through. an opportunity to express that with like-
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December 10, 2010
Rocky Mountain Highlighter
Cheerleading
If you are one of the many students at Rocky who find yourself reading this Ramsey column, Nicholas and do not consider cheerleading a sport, be prepared to change your mind. Cheerleading is a sport that goes way back, originating in Minnesota on Nov. 2, 1898, consisting of only males. Since then, cheerleading has evolved, going through many different stages, spreading out from only colleges to a wider range of ages in the 1960’s. High school teams were now being formed, and as skills began to advance, the first all-star cheerleading competition was held in 1983. Now, I think it is of key importance that you understand the difference between high school cheerleading, and all-star cheerleading. High school cheerleaders are not only able to compete against other high school teams, but they keep the original traditions of the sport by cheering on their school sports teams such as football, basketball, wrestling, etc. All-star cheerleading is made up of girls passionate enough about the sport, they form gyms all over the country that intensely practice all weeks of the year to perfect their routines for competition. They do not cheer for any specific sports teams, and surprisingly enough, they do not “cheer” at all. The only time you will hear all-star cheerleaders cheering, is when the teams in their gym are up on the competition mat performing the routine that they have worked all year to show off. The average competitive all-star cheerleading routine consists of hardcore stunting, tumbling, dance and jumps all rhythmically coordinated into an organized routine that includes no yelling, shouting or cheering. A competitive cheerleader must be dedicated, tough, and passionate in order to excel and win. Stunts are going to fall. This means when you get hit in the face by your flyer over and over again, you get back up and you do it again until you have a solid stunt that hits consistently. You do not stop to cry, whine and complain. Teams that do not succeed are often ridiculed and taunted, especially in a high school setting. What students do not understand, is the extreme difficulty of the sport in itself, and the lack of professional coaching in teams that are unsuccessful. Most of the girls on the Rocky cheer teams have never cheered before in their lives, and are attempting to do stunts and skills that should have been practiced for years and years, beginning at young ages. The point that I am trying to make here, is that I have felt completely appalled with the lack of respect I have seen towards the cheerleading team at this school. They are trying their best, and they are having fun. As an eleventh year all-star cheerleader, I find myself very passionate about this sport, and encourage that it be respected as any other sport at Rocky. Ramsey Nicholas is a junior and Editorial editor for the RM Highlighter.
Queen of Egypt
Reanna Nelson
PSD looking at cyber-bullying
T Staff Editorial ►Students committing off-campus hate crimes could be punished by the school.
he suicide rate for teens has risen tremendously in the past year because of the human blessing that we call technological evolution. Could student harassment happening outside of school potentially affect the health of students inside of school? Cyber-bullying is a hate crime which is on the rise, and now Poudre School District is developing a policy which may punish students for this crime–even if it is committed outside of the school building. With social networking environments such as MySpace and Facebook, parents and teachers are not capable of seeing or catching many of the student-onstudent hate crimes. Back in the teenage years of our parents, technology such as text messaging did not exist, and their elders were able to correct visible, face-toface bullying going on in school. With this burst of technological advancement, parents and teachers mostly
The Rocky Mountain Highlighter is published nine times during the school year by the newspaper staff of Rocky Mountain High School/ 1300 W. Swallow Rd./Fort Collins, CO 80526. Contact Rocky Mountain Highlighter staff members at 970-488-7090 or 970-488-7091 for advertising information. Also the Rocky Mountain Highlighter staff is in Room 528, during 4th period. Editor-in-Chief Tess Halac Editorial Editor Ramsey Nicholas Sports Editor Calvin Jouard Features Editor Cassa Niedringhaus National Scholastic Press Association National Critique
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Center In-Depth Editor Mary Willson Limelight Editor Chloe Evans Advertising Manager Jake Mohr
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have no idea and no way to find out what their kids are doing and saying to one another. Just imagine–our future society is made of the teenagers who committed years worth of crimes with no one to tell them it was wrong. What kind of world are we going to be living in 10 years from now? In order for the school to punish students for offcampus offenses, the victim must present proof of negative personal effects due to student-on-student harassment or bullying. Possible effects include: lowered academic achievement and aspirations, increased anxiety, loss of self-esteem and confidence, depression, self harm and suicidal thinking, feelings of alienation in the school environment and absenteeism from school. Currently in the district’s policies, bullying is prohibited on all district property and discipline for student bullying may include suspension, expulsion and/
ighlighter Artists Loren DeWeese Reanna Nelson Mark Steininger Adviser Stephen Wahlfeldt
or disciplinary classroom removal. Because of the recent increase in teenage use of technology, bullying is more frequently occurring between students in an out-of-school setting taking place over texting, Facebook and other various social networking sites. The district is currently forming a committee that will be reviewing what the schools are doing regarding bullying/harassment issues and to determine whether staff members need additional training on the current policies. This committee will begin work on bullying in late December. The questions we still have on the issue are how is this off-campus bullying restriction supposed to be enforced and how can cyber-bullying occurring outside of school be proven? Students, if you see any cyber-bullying going on between students at Rocky, report it to a teacher, staffmember or administrator immediately.
RM Highlighter editorial policy
The Rocky Mountain Highlighter is a student news publication which strives to report school and community events with truth, accuracy, objectivity, and clarity. The RM Highlighter will also comment on issues of interest to its readers. The purposes of this publication are to report the news to the Rocky Mountain High School community, to provide the school community with a public forum for thoughtful discussion and debate, and to provide students on the newspaper staff with practical journalism experience. In order to make the RM Highlighter as professional a publication as possible, important legal and ethical guidelines will be followed. Senate Bill 90-99, enacted by the Colorado General Assembly during the 1990 legislative session, declares that “students of the public schools shall have the right to exercise freedom of speech and the press.” (Colo. Rev. Stat. Sec. 22-1-120) We, the staff of the RM Highlighter, are prohibited by law from publishing certain materials. We will respect these laws. No material which is libelous, encourages illegal acts, or causes material and substantial disruption to school activities will be published. Expressions which are obscene will not be printed. Profanity will not be printed unless it is considered absolutely necessary by the RM Highlighter editorial board to express the views of the writer or quoted person. Expression which is false “as to any person who is not a public figure or involved in a matter of public concern” will not be printed. “Expressions which are in violation of lawful school regulations designed to control gangs” will not be printed. In the event of a potential controversial item, the editorial board —consisting of all the editors, the advertising manager, and the adviser —will meet to discuss the merits of the item and then decide whether or not to print the item. Coverage of deaths which occur within the Rocky community will be carefully considered by the editorial board. Natural or accidental deaths will be reported for clarifications of death and will contain a memorial. Except in extreme circumstances, suicides will not be covered to reduce glorification of such acts. In general, the RM Highlighter observes the guidelines presented in the “Code of Ethics” of the Society of Pro-
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fessional Journalists. The RM Highlighter will not allow source review prior to publication, unless there is a clarification issue. Source anonymity will be granted only after careful consideration by the editor, with the editor reserving the right to make the final decision. Staff editorials shall be presented logically and will represent the views of the majority of the staff. Editorial criticism, of either individuals or groups, will be based on fact and will be constructive. Guest editorial space, the “Open Forum,” is available to anyone in the Rocky community, including students, parents, faculty, and administrators. Anyone interested in writing in the “Open Forum” should contact the editor-in-chief or the adviser, Stephen Wahlfeldt. Letters to the editor are welcome. They should be signed, and a home phone number should be included. The writer’s name may be withheld upon request, provided the editor agrees that the reasons for withholding a name are valid and compelling. Try to limit letters to 300 words and place them in one of the “Letters to the Editor” boxes, located in the Media Center and the Main Office, or give them to a RM Highlighter staff member, RM Highlighter adviser Stephen Wahlfeldt, or drop them by the RM Highlighter room, Room 528, during 4th period. Letters may also be mailed to the Rocky Mountain Highlighter, Rocky Mountain High School, 1300 W. Swallow Rd., Fort Collins, CO 80526. To talk with anyone on the RM Highlighter staff, phone (970) 488-7090. Columnists express their own views and not necessarily those of the RM Highlighter staff. No expression made by students of the Rocky Mountain Highlighter shall be considered an expression of school board or Rocky Mountain High School policy. Furthermore, Poudre School District and its employees are immune from any civil or criminal action based on any expression made or published by the students. All advertisement is welcome. To place an ad, contact RM Highlighter advertising managers at (970) 488-7091. The RM Highlighter, however, reserves the right to refuse advertising which the staff considers inappropriate for our audience. The RM Highlighter is a member of the ASNE/MCT Campus High School Newspaper Service, and some material is courtesy of that service. The Rocky Mountain Highlighter reserves the right to edit anything it publishes. CHSPA Newspaper Sweepstakes
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Editorial
December 10, 2010
Do you think the school should get involved in outside-ofschool cyber-bullying?
Local over corporate
Walrus, Rainbow, Mugs, and The Alley Cat— all central to the identity of Fort Collins, all locally owned businesses. Many take the idea of supporting local businesses to heart where others regard the idea as a “waste of time.” Unfortunately for the latter, they will find themselves missing out on the smorgasbord that the community has to offer. Unfortunately, a world without corporations is no longer realistic; however, many do not realize the effects that they have on small towns. Some may believe that “Big Box” stores such as Wal-Mart are essential to the community but they all destroy all chances for local business (providing similar services) to survive. According to an organization dedicated to the restoration of community business, 84 percent of sales are directed away from local businesses when the “one stop
Jimmy Arone, freshman “It depends on the situation. Bickering back and forth over text is fine, but giving crap everyday to someone is bad.”
Gabby de la Torre, senior
John Williams, language arts teacher “Yeah. If it’s a school community thing, it makes sense to punish them. If students are committing other crimes, the school gets involved, so they should for cyberbullying as well.”
serves all” stores come into town. Sadly, this essentially means that the local businesses become unnecessary and forced to close down. Such occurrences take away from the sense of community that is held up in part by these businesses. A certain bond is developed between citizens who support local businesses and the owners of such establishments. It builds a sense of kinship between the owner and the patron. These local businesses become interchanges. Not only do they accomplish the necessary task but oftentimes patrons meet friends, neighbors or even business associates within the walls of these establishments. When large corporations come in and replace such businesses, the sense of community is taken away because they obviously have no concern for the community atmosphere. To Fort Collins specifically, what would it look like without the definitive Old Town region? Without businesses such as The Alley Cat or The Egg
and I, central meeting places are taken away and a large part of what Fort Collins chooses to be defined as is stripped away. For example, why patronize the obviously well endowed and corporately owned Starbucks that is one half block away from The Bean Cycle whose drinks outweigh that of the former by a landslide. When taking an even closer look, one must examine the hidden gems that make up the environment of locally owned businesses. For example, the ceiling of the Alley Cat is adorned with panels that have been painted and created by patrons over the years. One finds themselves gazing at the hodgepodge in wonderment, pondering upon the unique stories behind each one. A corporate company could never hope to achieve an environment as such because many have mandatory decoration guidelines (compare one Qdoba to the next—they all have the same color schemes and are nearly identical in the wall decorations.) As per the trend, it’s cool to
be “green.” Supporting local is an extremely sustainable cycle. Look, for example, at the Grant Family Farms. People within the community support the farm (through their work, support, and endorsements) and the farm provides the product. Money in is product out—there is no middle man and therefore the food is quality and the prices are kept low. In contrast, corporations gather their goods from various areas nationally (and even globally in the case of some fruits) and because of transportation costs, the costs peak immediately. Additionally, the money put into the corporation is never seen by the community. The customers put money into the company by patronizing and it goes directly to the company; whereas within a sustainable cycle, such as local companies, the community fuels the business. In the economic times of the present day, why not support the local coffee shop instead of the international powerhouse that brews monotony? Geneva Mueller
Pro Con
Justin Schiller, soph.
“Yes, cyber-bullying is wrong and no one else is going to punish them for it.”
Jeff Elledge, junior
“No, it’s their own separate life. The school shouldn’t reprimand it.”
Daniel Winchester senior
“No. It’s not happening in school. If it’s in the school then it is a different issue.”
Rocky Mountain Highlighter
Corporate vs. local businesses
Photo Poll
“The school shouldn’t punish them, but it should be mediated with their counselors.”
A5
Corporations giving back
Corporate coffee is evil. According to that popular belief, everything corporate is evil. To the people that believe this, Walmart, Starbucks, Qdoba, etc… are large corporations that threaten local businesses. In Old Town specifically, you can pass a corporate Starbucks one minute and pass the local Alley Cat coffee shop a few blocks later. It’s impossible to avoid corporations. Recently there has been a surge of people urging Fort Collins residents to “support local.” There is encouragement to shop, eat, and buy at locally started, owned, and employed restaurants, coffee shops, retail stores because the money spent there will be continually deposited into the community. However, the idea of “local support local” is unrealistic. In today’s economy, local products
Reanna Nelson
are largely unattainable for struggling individuals and families because of their high prices. It’s easier for struggling families to buy cheap items in bulk at places like WalMart rather than basic necessities for higher prices at the Beaver Market or local farmer’s markets. Additionally, if somebody is craving coffee, enjoys Starbucks coffee, and is across the street from one, why do they have to travel six miles just to buy a cup of coffee from a local coffee shop? In no way, shape, or form should people not support local businesses. However, supporting local businesses isn’t the only way to keep money in the community. There are large corporations that can give back to the community through taxes, fundraisers, featuring local items, and supporting local charities. For example, Rocky
Letters to the Editor: Caffeine is a drug Dear Editor, In the most recent issue of the Rocky Mountain Highlighter, the issue of drug use and abuse on and off campus was the subject of focus. The extensive articles sought to expose the truth behind students use, and purchase of drugs. The Highlighter’s editorial staff even published their opinion that “drugs are not the answer to
anything.” However, this opinion contradicts writer Mary Willson’s feature article in which she proposes support of our student body presidents, “Have you had your caffeine today?” catchphrase. I’ll be the first to agree that undermining the leadership of our president via Facebook is inappropriate and completely counter to the Lobo Way, but I’d also like to be the first to present a logical argument against this catchphrase on behalf of those that feel somewhat frustrated
uses WalMart boxes for the Adopt-A-Family event. Part of the local taxes that each business is required to pay are deposited directly back into the city, regardless if it’s a corporation or local. Many people in town own and manage different franchise branches like Qdoba, Dominos, McDonalds and other companies. These local business owners directly give back to the community by hiring locals, spending, and living locally. Just because they are managing a franchise does not mean that they are not local business owners. In a community like Fort Collins, the lack of support for local businesses shouldn’t be a concern. There are so many local companies that it’s almost impossible to not shop at one. In addition, corporate companies are more able to donate
to charities on a larger scale. Starbucks is a big enough business that it can donate significant amounts to charities. They donate to the Global Fund to help people living with HIV in Africa, the Ethos® Water Fund that helps support water and hygiene education programs in water-stressed countries, and the communities that produce the coffee and tea for their store. Just because corporate doesn’t always donate directly to a specific community does not mean they’re not helping people elsewhere. When possible and convenient, people should indeed shop at local businesses. However, it’s not the end of the world if someone buys a grande Mocha Frappucino at Starbucks instead of a medium Red Eye Cat at the Alley Cat.
by it. What many students would like our Student Council and the Highlighter staff to recognize is that caffeine is also a drug. It is possible to become addicted to it, and in addition to the many innocent side effects such as headaches, sleep deprivation and irritability, as little as two grams of caffeine can be deadly. Although it is not illegal, and not as commonly harmful as other drugs, caffeine negatively impacts the study and work habits of
dozens of students, and should not be promoted by the student body. As a community we are privileged to be led by an intelligent, involved, and caring president, and recognize her creative license in her choice of signoff. However, I also hope that she will recognize her responsibility to represent the concerns of the student body, and take into consideration the request to alter her promotion of caffeine.
Chloe Evans
Evan West, senior
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Rocky Mountain Highlighter
A Debut in the Den
sports
December 10, 2010
Female from page A8
Photos by Tess Halac and Mary Willson
Packing the Den: Junior Matt Buchanan goes up for a shot against a Westminster defender (far left). Head coach Jeff Meyer shakes the hand of a Westminster player (top right). Meyer talks to his team on the bench during a time out (bottom right).
Coach’s up-tempo formula successful in first game more, you rest on the bench, and then we’ll put you back in.” The formula originated from With any athletic team, the the men’s head basketball coach, individuals share an obvious David Arseneault, at Grincommon goal to win. nell College in Iowa. In 1992, Athletes will endure blood, Arseneault experimented with sweat and tears in order to this up-tempo achieve this playing style, mission, often which he doing ‘whatcalled “The ever it takes’ System.” to earn their The System team a victory. involves takFor the boys’ ing 94 shots, basketball half of which team, sacrificare shot from ing their body outside the and time is Mary Willson arc, offensive only one component of how Game Plan: Head coach Jeff Meyer rebounding a to his team during a game on third of their the team plans talks Dec. 3. The Lobos won the game missed shot atto succeed. against Westminster. tempts, taking The other 25 more shots than their oppoelement is a new playing style nents, and forcing 32 turnovers, brought in by new head basketall within a single game. When ball coach Jeff Meyer, known as these goals are met, Grinnell has the “formula to win.” recorded at 95 percent winning “Basically, the formula entails average. Additionally, the team a hyper-running game,” Meyer has earned many scoring records said. “Forced turnovers, making the opposing big guy run up and due to this system, including most point scored by a single down the court and getting him play in a game for NCAA Divitired, that kind of thing. It’s a sion III. This was awarded to fun style of play that allows kids to be creative and try new things. Jeff Clement, who recorded 77 points against Illinois College in You are pressing the entire time. 1998. You don’t rest on the court anyby Tess Halac Editor in Chief
While Rocky’s team is not aiming for the same steep goals as the Grinnell team, it is that kind of game that the team hopes to play throughout the season. The team’s first opportunity to utilize the formula came Dec. 3 in their opening game against Westminster High School. The Lobos defeated the Wolves, 76-62. “Our first game went really well,” senior guard Michael Hoppal said. “Our style of play worked and everyone did a good job of running what the coach wanted us to. We are going to try to continue to improve as the year progresses.” Meyer and the team will try and further their success at the Green Mountain Invitational, which wraps up tomorrow. New to Rocky, Meyer is in his 17th year of coaching; his résumé includes coaching positions at Berthoud High School, Thompson Valley High School, UNC and CSU. Despite his extensive experience, this is Meyer’s first time coaching 5A. “Yes, you get a little more talented players,” Meyers said. “But ultimately, it is just basketball. When you coach, you coach.” Meyer was selected to replace
Club sports a costly investment by Doug Watterson Reporter
Club sports have become very popular, competitive, and increasingly costly. With pressure to play year around, missing a club season could mean falling behind the competition. Keeping up has become an even harder financial burden. “If you’re an athlete, especially one sport, it’s kind of a given that you play for a club team,” said senior basketball player Ty Traufield, who played for the Fever basketball club. For Traufield, coming up with the $3,000 fee just to get on the team was not easy. Fundraising opportunities allowed him to play on the team at no cost, but it still required effort. “I mean I got better and had a good time but I don’t think it was worth it for the money,” said Traufield. Even though fundraising opportunities are offered, it may not be enough. Nikki Mayer, a senior on the Rocky
soccer team and an Arsenal player, has seen a lot of her club teammates struggle to meet the cost. “They do offer a lot of scholarships, but a couple girls on my team have to work jobs to pay for the cost,” Mayer said. Out of town travel is usually the hardest financially on the players. Travel, lodging, and food are not covered by team fees. Mayer and her Arsenal teammates also pay for coaches’ travel, lodging, and food when they are on the road. A few players will even travel to teams that are based out of town. Junior volleyball player Jordan Richard drove to Denver three times a week where she spent a total of twelve hours to play for the Front Range Volleyball Club last year. Cost to play for the club was $1,300 not including the extra costs for the trip to Denver. “I had to cut out a lot of extra expenses to cover gas and such,” said Richard.
Club teams are the only option for hockey players since Fort Collins schools do not fund a varsity team. The majority of Rocky’s hockey players played for the Northern Colorado Youth Hockey Junior Eagles. The highest level of play for the Junior Eagles costs $2,500. Travel costs are not included. “They offer some fundraising opportunities but hockey is usually for families that are financially well off,” said junior Rocky Hockey player Brain Newsom. “The cost keeps a lot of players from playing at a high level.” Equipment costs add even more financial stress. Newsom had to pay between $1,500 to $2,000 for goalie equipment. But there are advantages for those able to play club sports. “A lot of girls on the top level teams get college scholarships,” said Mayer. “It makes up for the cost of playing club. There were only three girls on my team that aren’t playing college soccer.”
Mary Willson
Rallying the troops: Student in the front row of the student section highfive junior center Ethan Karp. Karp helped the Lobos win, 76-62.
former coach Bruce Dick after he chose to leave his coaching job last year. Dick was known for his animated and intense demeanor during games, often yelling at both referees and players. In this way, the two coaches are vastly different. “Dick was more in-your-face and more intense,” senior shooting and point guard Ty Traufield said. “Meyer lets us react and play with our own reactions, where Dick would get mad. He’s making lots of positive changes.”
Her dad and uncles are dedicated hunters, so it was a natural progression for her and her siblings to become a part of the tradition. Thus far, she has only hunted small game like pheasant and quail, but hopes to hunt elk sometime soon. Senior and fellow hunter Shelby Mathis started the sport in 2006. She has experimented with various types of hunting, from small game hunting with rabbits and squirrels to elk. Like Zachman, Mathis learned the sport through her father. “My brothers are too little to hunt, so that’s how I got started,” Mathis said. “It is just another bonding thing, I guess.” Both girls go hunting with their dads, and both have acknowledged that the sport has indeed strengthened their relationships with their fathers. “My dad and I are pretty close as it is,” Zachman said. “Hunting is just another way for us to bond. It’s not only us; my entire family can bond over it. Our family hunting trips are always really, really fun.” Adds Zachman’s father, Bob Zachman, “I like to take my kids hunting because it’s a good outdoor activity. You can focus on the conversation between you and your kid because that’s all that is out there. You get to teach them what you know, what you’re passionate about.” As far as Bob is concerned, hunting isn’t something that only men can do, despite its stereotype. “Traditionally it’s true that hunting is supposed to be a guy-guy sport, but I didn’t want to be stereotypical about it,” Bob said. “I want to share the same things with my daughters as I do with my son.” Though Emily and Mathis were introduced to the sport by their family friends and family, both see hunting continuing to be a part of their lives, with their parents or not. Mathis even talks about teaching her own kids to hunt one day. “We go camping to fish and to shoot things, and it’s just a normal thing for us to do,” Mathis said. “I want my kids to feel the same way. I want my kids to know how to shoot, and to be comfortable around guns.”
sports
December 10, 2010
A7
Rocky Mountain Highlighter
Olympic wrestler’s speech inspirational gold Karate chop: Olympic Gold Medalist Brandon Slay demonstrates a move in front of the wrestling team. Slay spoke to the team about his experiences at the Olympics.
by Trevor Merrill Reporter
Going from sixth in the United States in 1999, to first in the world and an Olympic gold medal a year later, Brandon Slay kept fighting his way to the top. The Rocky wrestling team was fortunate enough to listen to him share his story, on Wednesday, Nov. 17. He told the students about this fight to the top. Thanks to the positive contributors throughout his life, Slay was able to achieve the goal he set at age 8. Going 0-20 in his first year of wrestling, he held his head high to get to the top. When he was 24 years old, he did just that. Once he got his Olympic gold medal in Sydney, Australia, his next goal was to share his experience with kids in various schools. “Just because there’s no one from your state, school, town, doesn’t mean you can’t (succeed),” Slay told the Rocky team. “There’s always going to be people who will try and pull you down. It doesn’t matter where you come from; it’s where you think you can go.”
Slay shared his story of losing in the final round in the 76 kg class to Alexander Leipold of Germany. A couple weeks later, Leipold tested positive for nandrolone, an illegal anabolic steroid. Leipold was stripped of his gold medal, which was then given to Slay. Junior wrestler Derick Padilla found this motivational as it shows cheating doesn’t pay off. “Most people cheat to win, but
he didn’t,” Padilla said. “If you do everything right, you can become successful.” Slay has learned many life lessons on his fight to the top. He often used the term “failing forward” to describe the advantages of failing, and how much can be gained. Along with teaching about “failing forward,” Slay told the team what “it” takes. Just four minor things, which when done right can lead
Trevor Merrill
to success. “First thing it takes: it takes time,” Slay said. “It takes commitment, even when you’re failing, even when you get pinned in 35 seconds. Second, it takes extra hard work. Not hard world, extra hard work. Third, you have to believe in yourself. You don’t just wake up and go ‘I believe.’ It doesn’t happen that way. The fourth thing it takes: You have to make good deci-
sions.” With his motivational words, the wrestlers were leaning forward sitting on mats paying much attention to his each and every word. Facility members such as Principal Tom Lopez, Athletic Director Wayne Moddelmog, School Resource Officer Jerrod Hardy, and the wrestling coaches were there as well. Assistant coach Brad Hargreaves hopes Slay’s word will impact the wrestlers in more than just wrestling. “I hope they can apply what he said not only to wrestling but also to their life,” Hargreaves said. “It’ll help them set their goals and stay on track to achieve them.” Senior wrestler Jay Seefeld found Slay inspirational for not only wrestling, but for life as well. He also believes Slay’s words will help the team excel in the season. “Definitely work ethic,” Seefeld said. “It’s good to see a model of what someone can do and emulate what they do.” After his motivational words, Slay taught the team, giving them wrestling tips and strategies to help lead to victory.
Felix recovering from traumatic shoulder injury by Ryan Nelson Reporter
Injuries are one of an athlete’s worst fears, and for senior Diego Felix, injury is already a part of this wrestlers’ early season. In mid-October, during a preseason workout, Felix dislocated his shoulder and was taken to the hospital in an ambulance. “I was defending a takedown and just came down awkwardly in a violent landing,” Felix said. After finishing last season a mere one win away from placing in the varsity state championship at the 152 lb. weight class, Felix hopes to make it so this injury doesn’t stop him from
Basketball from page A8 freshman were there during workouts. I think the amount of people dedicating themselves kind of intimidated other girls.” Matkin offers another justification of players not continuing the sport. “I think when there is any change in a program, there’s a period
Poaching from page A8 happened in the community of Estes, it brings attention to the poaching problem throughout Northern Colorado. “The more severe the consequence, the more people it will deter from poaching or killing elk in the middle of Estes,” senior Luke Howard said. Although Howard isn’t an avid hunter, he has been around the hunting community and has his hunting license. To obtain a hunting license for Colorado, one has to go through a hunter education and safety course. Every year, there are only a certain number of licenses given out for hunting. The state uses these to maintain the growth of big game, so getting a license can be like entering the lottery. There is a chance you get a license, and there is a
winning a state championship in the 160 lb. weight class this season. “I want to win that state championship,” Felix said. “I’ve been working all off season for it.” “We obviously want to make sure he is 100 percent before we put him back on the mat,” head wrestling coach Ken Taylor said. Felix expects to miss very little, if any, of the season. He has been working on technique and seems to even ignore the fact that he was previously injured. Felix stays after practice to keep working on his technique and perfect himself as a wrestler. “He (Felix) is definitely a perfectionist,” Taylor said. “He is a
of time where the kids need to figure out how they fit into the big picture,” Matkin said. “You want kids to work hard and reap the rewards after they put in the time.” Added Catlett, “people don’t like to run. Matkin is just the kind of guy that makes you work hard.” As a result of the small turnout, each team has about eight players, meaning more players will have to
“” Luke Howard, senior
There is a difference between killing animals and killing animals for food.
chance you don’t, depending upon how many are given out that year. The DOW literally has a drawing that decides which applicants make the cut. If a hunter doesn’t have a license, they are considered a poacher. If a hunter has more game in their possession than they are licensed, they are considered a poacher. If a hunter kills on prop-
hard worker; he has really dedicated himself to the sport. He doesn’t do football or anything, so he has really worked hard as a wrestler.” The team looks to Felix as a leader of the team and a definite contender. “We want to get him out there and wrestling before too long,” Taylor said. Added Felix, “I’m just a little cautious of re-injuring myself. But I’m just going to keep that possibility out of my mind and just wrestle. I think the more I think of injury the more it will slow me down.” Felix and his coaches expect him to not slow him down once he hits the mat.
play on multiple teams, as opposed to the usual two or three JV players suiting up for the varsity game. Underclassmen will also have to support the team in the event of an injury, in addition to providing depth. “We won’t be as deep coming off the bench,” DeBord said. “This means the underclassmen will have to step up and make plays.”
erty that is not legitimate hunting property, they too are considered a poacher. Poachers are difficult to locate and identify, seeing as poaching is normally in remote areas. But the DOW is constantly on the lookout, and the penalties for poaching are serious. Poaching is normally considered a felony. “It’s only ethical if there is a challenge,” junior and avid hunter Cole Bradley said. “If (the animals) are fenced in or too close, it’s not a challenge.” Many see hunting as being unethical due to the fate of the targets. Hunting in Colorado is very well organized, and poaching is taken very seriously. “There is a difference between killing animals for the sake of killing animals and killing animals for food,” Howard said. “It’s all about getting back to the roots of survival.”
Ryan Nelson
Daily Grind: Diego Felix (top) wrestles Derick Padilla during practice. Felix is still recovering from a dislocated shoulder.
According to Catlett, this won’t be a problem. “There are about four to five freshman on JV right now, and they’re the kind of kids that will work hard and know the plays, and will be willing to step in,” Catlett said. “You have to be held accountable (when you have small numbers). That’s what you have to do to win.”
Matkin maintains his positive outlook on the situation and season. “More numbers is not always a good thing,” Matkin said. “You want quality players that are willing to sacrifice for the benefit of the team.” “We have great kids,” Matkin added. “People that want to be part of something special, and girls that want to be part of something bigger.”
A8
Rocky Mountain Highlighter
S
ports
December 10, 2010
’Tis the season...
Teachin’ how to Dougie
Doug Watterson
An ode to Shonny
For hunting Big game
Female hunters take interest in male-dominated sport
T
by Tess Halac Editor-in-Chief
o many, the sight of dead animals, blood and guts is enough to make one feel sick or even faint. For junior Emily Zachman, the sight doesn’t even garner a wince. To outsiders, Ever since I hunting scenes appear grocan remember, tesque and barbaric; for her, it’s merely a depiction of one I’ve always of her activities. An activity watched and that is common to Colorado – over 30,000 people came to helped my Emily dad strip the the state in 2009 in order to Zachman, hunt – Zachman is unique in junior animal and cut that she’s a girl in this maleit up for meat. dominated sport. “Ever since I can rememBlood and guts ber, I’ve always watched don’t bother and helped my dad strip the me at all. animal and cut it up for meat,” Zachman said. “Blood and guts don’t bother me at all.” Zachman began her hunting career two years ago.
“”
Graphic by Calvin Jouard
Animal poaching problem prominent in society today
T
by Mary Willson In-depth Editor
he roots of survival: making fire, finding water—and hunting for food. Thousands of hunting licenses are given out yearly in Colorado, for everything from bear to mink—all given by the Colorado Division of Wildlife (DOW). Throughout time, it’s been questioned again and again if hunting is ethical, and a recent outbreak of poaching has caused that inquiry to grow. Recently a “celebrity” elk, also known was poached in Estes Park. He was struck by an arrow in town, wandered over to the Stanley Hotel and was then put down by the DOW when it was declared that he would no longer be able to walk due to the bow inflicted wound. This event has recently caused uproar in wildlife protection initiatives throughout northern Colorado. Officials are searching for the poacher, offering a $5,000 reward for tips on the event. Although this
Jump to FEMALE, page A6
and a recent outbreak of poaching has caused that inquiry to grow.
Jump to POACHING, page A7
Girls’ basketball looks to leadership, underclassmen to cope with small teams by Calvin Jouard Sports Editor
The girls’ basketball program has been suffering from what is known as “not-enoughplayers”-itis. Head girls’ basketball coach Todd Matkin, doesn’t believe such an illness exists. “I couldn’t be more excited for the season,” Matkin said. “I’ve talked to some other coaches and they seem to think that we’ll be one of the top teams in the state.” Being a “top team” in the state, one would expect a multitude of players vying for spots. But this was not the case. There were only 33 players who participated in the first day of tryouts for four teams. It was even questionable whether or not Rocky would follow in the steps of Collins, where a D team is nonexis-
Stuffed!: Senior center Erica Musante stuffs a Prairie View player in a game on Dec. 4. The Lady ’Bos won the game.
tent. The program was ultimately fortunate enough to field a D team this year, according to Matkin. The small numbers meant no cuts were made this year unlike previous years, in which about five to 10 people were cut. This brings up a more pressing issue: even though not many new faces showed up at tryouts, what happened to the old ones? According to junior forward Kim Catlett, nearly one-fourth of the team from last year opted to not continue playing. Junior guard Taylor DeBord offers one explanation for players becoming former players. “We did a lot of things in the offseason, and it was pretty serious,” DeBord said. “Even
Jump to BASKETBALL, page A7
Fahey Zink
She has a part in every sport, every season, and every athlete. Head trainer Shonny Vander Vliet has taped too many ankles to count, packed countless noses, stretched multiple cramps, and diagnosed many concussions in her time at Rocky. In short, she does everything she can to ensure athlete safety. Among Rocky athletes, her work does not go unnoticed. The work she does to heal us physically is unmatched. I know firsthand how good she is, because for more than six months she has literally taped me back together. She helps every injured player through the entire process. When you’re flat on your back with pain racing through your body after a big hit, who is the first face you see? When your recovery concludes and you’re ready to go back to the playing field, who is the last person you talk to? The answer is always Shonny. The physical recovery process is important, and technically the only part of a trainer’s job description, but as Rocky’s athletes can attest, Shonny does her greatest work helping us cope mentally. Standing on the sideline is never easy. She is always completely honest with where your injury stands and won’t hold you back if you are ready to play. When frustration sets in, comforting words are always soon to follow. I know my attitude has not always been the easiest to deal with during my injuries, but Shonny’s caring demeanor never ceases, no matter how unreceptive we can become. But the most important thing that Shonny brings to Rocky is her big smile and contagiously positive attitude. You can’t help but have a laugh every time you talk with her. She has an uncanny ability to lift your spirits. With football season complete and the semester coming to a close, Shonny is approaching the midpoint of her final year as the head trainer. After over 16 years of serving the Rocky community, it is certain that her medical knowledge, and most importantly, her caring spirit, will be dearly missed. From every athlete, coach, trainer, and manager who have walked the halls of Rocky in the past 16 years and the many more still to come; we owe you Shonny. Doug Watterson is a junior quarterback on the football team, basketball player and a reporter for the RM Highlighter.
F
eatures
The Will to Wonder Mary Willson
Constant communication
One of my most vivid memories from elementary school is probably the same as other teenagers who grew up in the late ’90s—calling a crush on their house phone. The conversation would go something like this: “Hello?” “Hi, can I please speak to [insert name here]?” “Um, may I ask who’s speaking?” “(Timidly) Mary.” “Oh, okay. Yeah, let me get [insert name here]… (Yelling up the stairs).” It was awkward. As being the first generation to be completely transitioned into cell phones and the internet at an early age, we are the generation that has been the model for current communication. It means virtually every person at the age of at least 12 and up has very strong thumbs—thanks to texting, very fast fingers—thanks to the internet, and very complicated and ever-changing relationships driven by constant communication. Generations before us did it all different, without constant communication and with a whole lot of patience. Julie and Bryan met working for a summer at the YMCA—they had an eye on each other for a summer, until the next summer when they started dating. When the summer was over, they had to go back home, to different ends of Texas and rival colleges. They sent letters back and forth for a year. Within that year, they met once and he proposed. That summer they were still separated; he worked at an outdoor mental hospital in the rural wilderness. They sent tapes of each other talking back and forth. John and Melissa (names have been changed) worked together for a single summer at a young kids sports camp. He lived in Colorado, she lived across the nation. He decided he liked her, and had once chance to win her over before she found someone else. He was starting a new job; therefore he has to act fast. He quickly drove to her home town and surprised her— with no communication beforehand. His car broke down and his 3 day stay turned into a 10 day stay. He worked for the next year in an institution for troubled teens. They sent letters for the whole year and got married when he was done. The anticipation of waiting for a letter or tape from the people in your life must have been a magical feeling. It is now diminished due to our generation’s constant communication. When we are in the situation of being separated from the people close to us, we e-mail, stalk each other’s Facebooks, text 24-7, talk on the phone, and Skype. In the twenty first century, communication is so easy to come by we don’t realize how valuable the time we have with the people around us is. As transitions are just around the corner for everyone in high school, we need to step back and realize that everyone in our phone is more than a contact, every “friend” on Facebook deserves to be a friend in real life, and that technology should not be abused within a relationship. We are a generation of lost letter writers—and we need to make sure we don’t get caught up in the fast paced world of wave lengths.
Mary Willson is a senior and Center In-Depth editor for the RM Highlighter.
December 10, 2010
Section B
Rocky Mountain Highlighter
From bottom to top: Parent Davidson inspires by Cassa Niedringhaus Features Editor
On a warm day at Mount Rainier in 1992, 29-year-old climber Jim Davidson felt his feet sinking into the snow, and in seconds he was swallowed by a deep crevasse. As he plummeted through a thin snow bridge and into the deep crack in the glacier, he swung his ice pick around in hopes that he could snag the wall and stop his fall. His ice pick wouldn’t take. His fall began to
accelerate and there was no way to stop it. He slammed hard into the ground and his climbing partner, Mike Price, fell next to him. They had fallen onto a small ledge 80 feet from the surface. Price took the fall hard, stopped breathing and couldn’t be revived with CPR. The ensuing emotional and physical battle that Davidson would have to endure alone to escape the
Jump to DAVIDSON, page B2
Photo courtesy of Jim Davidson & speakingofadventure.com
Catching his breath: Jim Davidson stands at 26,906 feet at the summit of Cho Oyu, Tibet holding the pictures of his wife and kids. He became a fulltime public speaker after a fall at Mount Rainier.
Artists show true colors
Teachers give unique perspectives by Cassa Niedringhaus Features Editor
The visual arts department has something special that makes it one of the largest and most successful around. The department includes five teachers: Jay Dukart, Laura Cronen, Benjamin Hill, Daniel Ibañez, and Missy Wolf. The teachers agree that the visual arts department is special because of administrative support and the idea that anyone can be included. Each teacher brings a unique personality and a different set of skills. Missy Wolf Wolf welcomes students with a smile and kind words. She teaches 2-D Art, 3-D Art, Drawing, Advanced Drawing, Sculpture, Advanced Sculpture, Painting and Advanced Painting. She believes that the department is successful because of administrative support, the ability to be inclusive, the diverse group of teachers, and the goal of making learning fun. “We are inclusive, not exclusive,” said Wolf. “The art department is a home away from home where people can feel comfortable. You can be yourself.” Wolf hopes to teach students that they will keep with them throughout their lives. She hopes to help them become productive members of society, find Jump to TEACHERS, page B2
AP Art Show paints good picture of school by Chloe Evans Limelight Editor
The art department is one big family, and inside that family is an even closer, tight knit group; the AP Art class. Every year, art Features teacher, Jay Dukart teaches a class of about 20 students who excel want to continue their interests in art. Dukart is the teacher in the classroom while AP Art meets every second period, but he does not teach by giving assignments. “In general, I’m not giving them assignments,” Dukart said. “They tell me what they’re going to do. They’re working at a high level and exploring their art is a very personal thing. We don’t have two people in class doing the same thing.” Each student must create a portfolio of 30 college-level,
Special
Cassa Niedringhaus Mary Willson Chloe Evans
Showing their talent: Artists demonstrated their artwork in the AP Art Show on Thursday, Dec. 2. Sixteen artists take AP Studio Art and participated in the show.
individual pieces of art. These artistic creations can range anywhere from drawings, paintings, photos, pottery pieces, sculptures, collage, fashion design, and many other more forms. An AP Art student can choose from three different types of portfolios to pursue; drawing, 2-D design, and 3-D design. A drawing portfolio does not limit an artist to a graphite pencil however; it allows and encourages the use of many different mediums including paint, pen, and others. The 2-D design portfolio allows for more range in pieces, because it can include photography, graphic design, collage, weaving, and other mediums. 2-D is the most common type of portfolio in AP Art, especially this year. Seniors Aleena Rogers and Ian Maday are both students Jump to AP ART, page B2
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Rocky Mountain Highlighter
Features
December 10, 2010
Club saves lives, gives new beginnings by Chloe Evans Limelight Editor
Some clubs raise money for tshirts, others focus on who will win the basketball game on Friday. But there’s one club in particular that saves lives. The Save the Tears club at Rocky is Club dedicated to rescuing women and children from the sex slave trade in Thailand, one person at a time. The club originated last year when social studies teacher and club sponsor Blair Berg lectured his class about the thriving and rising sex slave industry. “I was shocked that none of the textbooks had any information about it,” Berg said. “I felt that it was an issue that needed to be talked about so I talked about it.” Save the Tears works in cooperation with the organization NightLight, an international association that works to intervene with the sex
Feature
Teachers from page B1
respect for themselves and others and gain the confidence to problem solve. “I try to lead by example,” Wolf said. “I pose questions to students about how they are living their life and if they reflect it in their artwork.” Jay Dukart Dukart creates an atmosphere where he can encourage creativity. He teaches Photo, Creative Photo, 2-D Art, 3-D Art, Painting, Advanced Painting and AP Studio Art. He promotes original and creative thinking. He believes that the success of the department can be attributed to the inclusive environment and teachers who love their job. Dukart teaches his students how to problem solve in ways that they will use throughout their lives. “In life, two plus two does not always equal four,” Dukart said. “Students need to perform on their feet. All classes incorporate this idea. Non-art students can take from it as well.” Benjamin Hill Hill hopes to teach his students that the process of art is sometimes more important than the product. He teaches Videography and 3-D Art. He works to make his projects concept based, not skill based. He lets students know that they aren’t expected to be good artists immediately. He believes that the de-
Davidson from page B1
crevasse would prove to be a life-altering event. In the time after the fall his wife Gloria stayed by his side and they worked to overcome their sadness together. Price had been a mutual friend and his death hit them both hard. Jim and Gloria went on to have two children, Jessica and Nick. Jessica is now a junior at Rocky and Nick is a freshman. Throughout the years after the fall, an idea began to form in Jim’s mind. He had a career as a geologist and often gave speeches. He began to share his story of the fall at Rainier and the lessons he had learned. His story wowed his audiences and he came to the realization that sharing his message was his life’s purpose. He knew that he could have more passion in being a motivational speaker than he could for working in geology. “In 2003, I got the sense that sharing the story of what happened on Rainier and what I and others could learn from it was part of my purpose,” Davidson said. “It was maybe more important work for me to be doing. I spoke at one or two conferences, sharing the story. And I got a very positive response from the people in the audience. I wanted to make something positive out of negative experience.” He began to gain publicity and popularity as he transitioned into his new career where he strives to give hope and inspiration to people who have difficult
slaves and help them rebuild their lives afterwards. The organization offers alternative jobs to sex-trafficking and works to transport former slaves back home. “There are kids and women out there that can’t get out, they have no hope,” junior and co-president of the club Christine Gravelle said. “We stick up for them.” After Berg’s lecture, students that were moved by the issue got together outside of class and decided to form the club in order to make a difference and send a message to people across the world. “It was very cool to see these kids from Fort Collins, Colorado stand up and want to do something good for someone else,” Berg said about the students who started the club. Last year the club held two bake sales and sold cupcakes on the Rocks for a dollar. Those fundraisers helped to raise $300, enough to combine funds with NightLight and purchase a plane ticket home for a Russian
partment thrives because of the diverse course offering, the diverse instructors, and the support of the administration. “If they (students) utilize the department to its full capacity, they have the ability to gain an introductory college art experience,” Hill said. “They learn problem solving. Art is problem solving. I believe it can solve any problem in the world.” Daniel Ibañez Ibañez stresses the idea that art is about relationships and communication. He teaches everything except for clay and photo-based classes. He believes that art is much more than just learning to draw. It’s about communicating ideas and messages and how they relate. “Exploring relationships is where we find meaning,” Ibañez said. “It’s when we begin to understand how things relate to each other: how I relate to my family, how I relate to nature or how my world understands me.” To prompt his students to think about communication and relationships, he poses questions for them to answer. “It’s always about asking questions,” Ibañez said. “Each project is a sort of question prompting the artist to think about a specific set of relationships or a specific element in life. It’s a set of abstract problems. And those abstract problems are indicative of the real life issues.”
things to overcome. In 2007, reporter Kevin Vaughan wrote a detailed five-part special about him and Price in the Rocky Mountain News. The two got to know each other well through the intensive interview process. When Jim got the idea for a book, he turned to Vaughn to co-author it with him. It is titled The Ledge: An Adventure Story of Friendship & Survival on Mount Rainier and is being published July 2011 by Ballantine Books. Also, in January, Jim will be appearing on Animal Planet’s show I Shouldn’t Be Alive. Gloria supports his message and his desire to follow his dreams. She does the same. She decided several years ago to become a nurse because she ►Jim feels passionate about Davidson helping people and caring for them. “If you are going to have a long career, do what you love and build on it,” Gloria said. “Then you will be more engaged and not watching the clock.” Together they work to encourage that same mentality for their children. While Jessica and Nick weren’t when he fell at Rainier, they have since learned about it and are looking forward to the new things he has to come.
Fahey Zink
Auctioning baskets: The Save the Tears club put on a silent auction that raised $1105. Their efforts in fundraising have so far rescued one girl from sex-trafficking in Thailand.
woman who was trapped in the industry in Thailand. Many of the women that are involved the industry are there
“”
Art is problem solving. I believe it can solve any problem in the world.
because they were forced. They come to Thailand for jobs to support their families and are sucked into the sex slave trade through false promises of
AP ART
work opportunities and are unable to escape. “It’s so hard to get out of this industry,” junior and co-president Dani Hailey said. “If I was in that situation and someone helped me out, I would be so grateful for them.” This year the club organized a silent auction, is having movie nights, and is selling shirts to raise more money to save more people in Thailand. For the auction they collected baskets and general donations from the community and hosted the auction at the Immanuel Community church. They also presented a documentary about the issues they work to solve within their club. By the end of the night they had raised a total of $1105, enough money to possibly save two more victims of the sex slave trade. “We’re just high school students who sold cupcakes,” Gravelle said. “It’s easy to save someone’s life.”
Laura Cronen Cronen believes that students can feel at home in the department. She teaches 2-D Art, 3-D Art, Pottery, and Sculpture. She said that students can feel comfortable around the teachers because they all have good relationships with each other. Cronen teaches her students that art is something that will let them look through the world in a different lens. She hopes to instill art appreciation by giving them new ways to think, problem solve and view the world. “By having students in these classes, they’re engaging with that kind of interaction, with art, hopefully noticing art in their surroundings more than they would before they took the art classes,” Cronen said. “A lot of people go on in their daily lives and don’t notice what’s around them. Art makes you stop and notice things.”
who have a 2-D-focused portfolio. “I do a lot of digital photography,” Rogers said. “I do a lot of overlaying gradients in my photography, but I don’t really have a theme in my drawings. I still need to find my niche, my style.” Some students however, choose to concentrate on 3-D design portfolios, like senior Anna Napelbaum. “I’ve always been more interested with sculptures and pottery,” Napelbaum said. “I’ve never been that great at drawing, painting, etc…” Students are required to have a section two concentration, at least 12 pieces that have an overlying theme. The remaining 18 pieces are not required to have anything in common; however some artists tend to focus on their specific style. “My theme is definitely surrealism,” Maday said. “I’m really influenced by Tim Burton’s art, I’ve loved it since I was a kid and my favorite movie was The Nightmare Before Christmas. I love that in surrealism, there’s something that’s not quite right.” Last Thursday, Dec. 2, the class held their annual AP Art show in the commons. Students set up their pieces around the rocks and invited the community to come see the artwork they
have been working on for an entire semester. Close to 300 people showed up to enjoy the art, free food, and music by the percussionists from the band. “I (was) excited to hear what people think of my work, whether it be good or bad,” Maday said about the show. Though the class focuses on a portfolio for possible colleges, students look at art as more than just a high school hobby. AP Art encourages and influences its students to pursue art after high school, even if it’s not as a career. “I definitely plan on pursuing art after school,” Rogers said. “I don’t plan on being an artist as a career, but I know I want a college art career, hands down. It’s going to happen.” Maday has plans to further his art even more in art school after his senior year by majoring in film and illustration in order to pursue his dreams of becoming a film director. Napelbaum, however, sees art as her hobby instead of a potential career path but hopes to continue doing it throughout her life. Regardless of whether or not a student wants to continue their art education after high school, current AP Art students encourage others who are even remotely interested in art to take AP. “I encourage everyone who is interested in art to do AP,” Rogers said. “Even though it’s stressful, it’s so fun and so worth it.”
“I think its pretty crazy,” Nick said. “I wasn’t born yet, of course. I was born four years after it happened, so I didn’t really understand it until two years ago. But once I heard about it, it was just amazing and stunning. I never would have expected it.” Added Jessica, “It’s pretty cool. It’s something that’s always been a huge part of my life. It’s nothing new but I’m really excited to see my dad’s dreams coming true and seeing that that’s his passion.” When Jim is away on long climbing expeditions, the family has to accommodate for his absence. He is sometimes gone for several months at a time. They communicate with him through satellite phones, e-mail and other social mediums on the internet. “My mom is really, really good about holding things together while he is gone,” Jessica said. “She is so incredible. It’s just about a lot of teamwork. You’ve got to be selfless. But we know that it’s worth it because he makes sacrifices for us. I love my daddy.” Jim’s story is one that has influenced many people. In his speeches, he strives
to give hope and inspiration to people who have difficult things to overcome. The story of the fall at Rainier is something that completely altered his life. He and Price had been tethered together. As Jim fell into the crevasse, or crack in the glacier, Price had done his best to stop the fall, but the sunny day had caused the snow to be too soft for him to hold them with his ice pick. He fell into the crevasse, or crack, in the glacier as well. He was able to slow Jim’s fall at first making it so that Jim did not freefall the entire 80 feet. Once Price was into the crevasse, he freefell the whole time. “The hardest part was dealing with the death of my friend Mike,” Davidson said. “I did CPR for a while but it didn’t work. He hadn’t been breathing for quite a while. So that was the most difficult part and then the immediate emotional shock after he passed away. And then I began to study and realize where we were.” Jim had to hold back his emotions and ignore his pain in order to confront the enormous challenge facing him; to escape he would be forced to climb 80 feet up an ice wall to get to the surface. Near the top, he would have to climb an ice overhang, an extremely difficult feat in the climbing world. In his years of experience, he had never climbed anything that hard. “I swung from one minute being emotionally distraught over the loss of my friend and being scared out of my mind to trying to gather myself and do a technical analysis of where we were
at,” Davidson said. Davidson spent about an hour trying to formulate a plan that would let him utilize his limited equipment and give him the best chance of escape. Five hours later, Jim emerged onto the surface, exhausted, soaked to the skin and in emotional shock. Jim took several years off after that expedition as he tried to figure out how to recover from the tragedy. One of the hardest things for him was talking to Mike’s parents. He met them for the first time when he had to explain the death of their son. “In a way, meeting and facing his parents was as scary as anything I had to do down in the crevasse,” Jim said. “Gloria went with me, I was pretty much scared out of mind to introduce myself and tell these people the sad tale of how their son died. Fortunately, they were very kind and very giving and gracious right off the bat. We are still in touch today.” From his fall at Rainier and other climbing expeditions that he went on, Jim formulated a message that he can communicate to people to inspire them to overcome their challenges. “I say that life is full of all kinds of crevasses,” Jim said. “Mine was a crack in the ice, but there are other crevasses like illness, financial concerns, natural disasters. That when you face those kinds of challenges, (it’s important) not to give up, to persevere through the challenges and to be resilient to keep engaging with those challenges. Find the strength within yourself to face the challenges and overcome the adversity.”
Ben Hill, art teacher
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Features
December 10, 2010
Bloom into film action
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Rocky Mountain Highlighter
Filmmaker’s work being noticed by John Califf Reporter
Lights…camera…action: Three simple words that junior Hudson Bloom incorporates into his life. Bloom has been into filmmaking since the age of 9. He is now doing his own independent filmmaking as well as school Student helping organizations such as yearbook with publicity videos. Bloom’s work–both movie-like story clips and game-playing clips–can be seen at his own YouTube name channel. “I wasn’t really serious at first with making films until about last year,” Bloom said. Although he won’t officially join the Video Announcements class until next semester, Bloom’s work has been displayed on recent shows. One of those Bloom short films made a big splash as seniors were reminded of the upcoming yearbook quote and portrait deadline: “In 2010, RMHS was warned.” What
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made the professional-looking clip so eye-catching was the meteors crashing onto school grounds, the slow motion movement of the actors, and the ominous graphics–all set to dramatic music. Senior yearbook editor Samantha Beck worked with Bloom on that project. “I was really amazed that a high school student actually produced something like that,” Beck said. “It is unbelievable.” Bloom said his parents always encouraged his filmmaking and even help critique his films. The support that Bloom receives from his family has helped him elevate his filmmaking to a higher level. Additionally, Bloom took the school’s Videography class with Ben Hill last year as a sophomore. “A lot of Bloom’s technique was self taught in terms of effects, but he had some background knowledge prior to taking my class,” Hill said. Added Bloom, “Videography was a good class. I learned a lot
Ramsey Nicholas
and it helped me get my work out more as a filmmaker.” Bloom uses the school’s basic video editing software of Adobe Premiere Pro to make his films. He also has that software and computer equipment at his home studio, which features wall posters of some of his favorite movies. “Equipment helps a lot with the quality and the messages of your video,” Bloom said. Bloom said he hopes to eventual take his abilities to collegiate level. He is looking at colleges both in and out of state but hasn’t set his mind on
Editing clips: Junior Hudson Bloom works on editing his current film projects in his home studio. His walls are decorated with movie and Hollywood posters.
anything specific one yet. He is just focused on working on his current projects and bettering his technique.
Trainer to retire after sixteen years
Vander Vliet says goodbye to one family to spend more time with other by Ryan Nelson Reporter
There are over 1000 athletes in Rocky, 600 of them in just fall sports, and every injury whether it’s minor or major gets evaluated by one person, head trainer Shonny Vander Vliet. And with how much time she spends here at Rocky (3 p.m. to 6 p.m., five days a week and often on the weekends), some might think that taking care of our athletes here is her full time job. Those people are very wrong. Vander Vliet has three other jobs. She often works at Poudre Valley Hospital in the emergency room. More often than not, she works the night shift three to five days a week, either 7 p.m. to 3 a.m. or 3 p.m. to 3 a.m. Also, Vander Staff Vliet works in the telecommunications department for the hospital one to three days a week in the hours between the time she finishes her shift at the emergency room to when she then starts to train at Rocky again. Vander Vliet doesn’t stop there. She is also hired to put the finishing touches on decorative stitching on hand made quilts. Vander Vliet has even transformed a room in her house to be dedicated to her elaborate stitching. Vander Vliet has dedicated nearly 16 years to the training
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program as the head trainer. However, she started working at Rocky training under the head trainer in 1993. She then took over the head training position in the fall of 1994. “I always kind of wanted to be a high school trainer,” Vander Vliet said. Vander Vliet took a three year break from the head trainer position, went to the police academy and studied to be a police officer. She decided that being a police officer just wasn’t a perfect fit for her. During the three year break she started her quilting business while continuing to helping out at Rocky. She then returned to the Rocky training room as the head trainer after the Orthopedic Center of the Rockies called her
Ryan Nelson
Treating athletes: Head trainer Shonny Vander Vliet takes care of an athlete’s foot in the training room. During her years working at Rocky, she has established strong connections and respect with the students.
and asked her to come back. Since 2003 Vander Vliet has held the head training position and has established many new friends and a very large extended family with all the people she has met through training. “The kids I have connected with over the years have been very important to me,” Vander Vliet said. “They are the ones that have kept me around for so long.” It is clear from the way stu-
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dents talk about her that she has earned their respect. In her years as trainer she has established ties with people around her. “Although I’ve only been a trainer this year, Shonny has really opened her arms and taken
For Bloom the script is still to be written and the future can only be foreshadowed in the scenes ahead. me into her family,” senior and student trainer Allie Denison said. “Shonny is one of the few people at Rocky that really understands the students and athletes and is easy to talk to. Shonny is someone that is really dear to me and I’m really lucky to have in my life.” Senior and student trainer Stacey Ewan added, “Shonny is not only a hardworking, dedicated head trainer, but she’s a great person to talk to. I would definitely consider her my mentor in some ways.” Vander Vliet has decided that this year will be her last as head trainer here at Rocky. She wants to be able to spend more time with her 3 and 5-year-old children. “My (oldest) kid is starting school next year,” Vander Vliet said. “I want to go take care of my own kids. It is just time for me to go seek new adventures.”
Fudge Ice Cream Chocolate Hot Dogs 10% discount for all Rocky students with school ID until Dec. 31st
In Old Town at 172 N. College Ave.
(next to Starbucks)
482-2038
B4
December 10, 2010
Rocky Mountain Highlighter
Programs offered, cost, size and majors are all part of a students college decision. Location and atmosphere of the college town are also very strong factors.
Bryan Hunter K-State, Manhattan Kansas
Kirk Williams Colorado State University
C
B5
enter in-depth
In-state or out-of-state?—that is the question. As seniors are applying for college, this question is perpetually confronted. Many students have an to leave Colorado for college. Others, however, to leave. The reasons vary, but the numbers behind the two pools are interesting. According to surveys conducted on Rocky’s Naviance over the past few years,
pull
feel no need
72% of all students who plan on going to college will stay in state.
Students are provided with many post-graduation opportunities: 51.1% plan on going to a traditional four-year college, where 17.5% plan on attending a two-year institution. Taking a year off, joining the military and having no known plans are also common for students, according to the surveys conducted on Naviance (2, 4.8, and 10.4%, respectively.) These statistics leave Colorado’s neighbor, Wyoming, takes the highest percentage of graduates away from Colorado for college—3%. Arizona and California each take 2% followed by the majority of other states making up the remaining 19%. Seniors must battle with the seemingly never-ending question throughout their final year; the positives and negatives are weighed, and The motivations behind these decisions play out upon a wide spectrum and lead to a final decision that is typically made by May 1.
Zack Gertig, Coast Guard Academy, New England, Massachusetts
26% of graduates in other states. decisions are made.
We live in a college town full of local venues, shops, hangout spots, and a variety of businesses.
College is a time for students to gain freedom, and decide their future—and where they live.
How does living in a college town as a high school student affect the college faces of the college decision? Chet Mogorit University of Denver
Molly Mogorit Colorado State University
Alex Creech Burmingham Southern, South Carolina
“College is going to bring many new experiences, and a new town just won’t be one of them, and I’m fine with that!” senior Molly Mogorit said. She will be attending Colorado State University and studying business in the fall.
“It’s a good distance to get away from things, but I can still have my home life. It’s the best of both worlds,” senior Jason Mitchell said. He will be attending University of Wyoming in the fall.
Photo essay by Mary Willson Center In-Depth Editor and Geneva Mueller Reporter
ion: ne decis A t wo l a e yo n d b d llins an F o rt C o
Faces of the college decision
extreme
B4
December 10, 2010
Rocky Mountain Highlighter
Programs offered, cost, size and majors are all part of a students college decision. Location and atmosphere of the college town are also very strong factors.
Bryan Hunter K-State, Manhattan Kansas
Kirk Williams Colorado State University
C
B5
enter in-depth
In-state or out-of-state?—that is the question. As seniors are applying for college, this question is perpetually confronted. Many students have an to leave Colorado for college. Others, however, to leave. The reasons vary, but the numbers behind the two pools are interesting. According to surveys conducted on Rocky’s Naviance over the past few years,
pull
feel no need
72% of all students who plan on going to college will stay in state.
Students are provided with many post-graduation opportunities: 51.1% plan on going to a traditional four-year college, where 17.5% plan on attending a two-year institution. Taking a year off, joining the military and having no known plans are also common for students, according to the surveys conducted on Naviance (2, 4.8, and 10.4%, respectively.) These statistics leave Colorado’s neighbor, Wyoming, takes the highest percentage of graduates away from Colorado for college—3%. Arizona and California each take 2% followed by the majority of other states making up the remaining 19%. Seniors must battle with the seemingly never-ending question throughout their final year; the positives and negatives are weighed, and The motivations behind these decisions play out upon a wide spectrum and lead to a final decision that is typically made by May 1.
Zack Gertig, Coast Guard Academy, New England, Massachusetts
26% of graduates in other states. decisions are made.
We live in a college town full of local venues, shops, hangout spots, and a variety of businesses.
College is a time for students to gain freedom, and decide their future—and where they live.
How does living in a college town as a high school student affect the college faces of the college decision? Chet Mogorit University of Denver
Molly Mogorit Colorado State University
Alex Creech Burmingham Southern, South Carolina
“College is going to bring many new experiences, and a new town just won’t be one of them, and I’m fine with that!” senior Molly Mogorit said. She will be attending Colorado State University and studying business in the fall.
“It’s a good distance to get away from things, but I can still have my home life. It’s the best of both worlds,” senior Jason Mitchell said. He will be attending University of Wyoming in the fall.
Photo essay by Mary Willson Center In-Depth Editor and Geneva Mueller Reporter
ion: ne decis A t wo l a e yo n d b d llins an F o rt C o
Faces of the college decision
extreme
B6
Limelight Games and entertainment
Rocky Mountain Highlighter
Lobo Way
December 10, 2010
Loren DeWeese
Facepalm
Mark Steininger
I was just trying to follow the “Lobo Way!”
He just charged at me and started clawing and biting me!
Top Ten
Ways to Make Politics Appealing to Youth:
10. Each president is required to have a catch phrase. 9. “Survivor” show featuring all members of the Supreme Court. 8. Bikini and singing contest determines Senate members. 7. Annual reenactment of the Clinton/Lewinsky scandal. 6. Elect fewer grey-haired white men.
5. Debates includes a halftime show with cheerleaders, bands, and fireworks. 4. Sarah Palin wears fewer clothes. 3. Presidential Debates mediated by Mr. T. 2. Auto-tune the State of the Union Address. 1. All members of the cabinet must consume as much caffeine as Kasey Darling.
Charlie Anderson, Ryan Nelson, and Calvin Jouard
Music from page B8 alternative forms of downloading,” said Eccher. Social studies teacher Scott VanTatenhove looked at the termination
of LimeWire differently than Eccher, adding that the longevity of the program’s existence was a bit surprising. “I’m surprised it took as long as it did (to shut down),” VanTatenhove said. “But the thing is, there are so
many people illegally downloading, it’s hard to prosecute individuals.” Even with LimeWire unable to provide music to users, there are still many other opportunities to illegally obtain music. This includes sites such as FrostWire, Kazaa, Pirate Bay and BitTorrent. BitTorrent offers slightly different services than other filesharing networks, primarily because the user must search the web for hosting torrent files. These torrent files usually hold more information than LimeWire files. Eccher accesses a variety of sites. “I used LimeWire once in 5th grade, and then I switched to BitTorrent,” Eccher said. “It’s faster, and
virus-free.” Vuze is another site, which can protect ones identity by encrypting the users downloads. This encryption method is becoming more popular by peer-to-peer programs, allowing downloaders to hide any evidence of illegal downloads. In other words, the government can’t hunt someone down for their crimes. Not only is LimeWire’s end surprising, but a cause for celebration, as far as local music artists are concerned, according to VanTatenhove. VanTatenhove used Napster, Kazaa and BitTorrent to obtain his music, before he had a change of heart. “After working with local artists,
you realize how they suffer because of sites like LimeWire,” VanTatenhove said. “Once you meet the musicians, and see them have to make ends meet, you have a deeper respect for them and their music. After I handed $10 to Fierce Bad Rabbit for a CD, they were very thankful and grateful. It woke me up.” VanTatenhove particularly emphasized the impacts of illegal downloading on local versus commercial artists. “If you illegally download Metallica, you don’t feel bad, because they’ve sold millions,” VanTatenhove added. “It’s not a legal issue, it’s a moral issue.”
jungle. Graphics have been described as incredible, and player actions as extremely realistic. Online play has also been enhanced. Staples of the previous games like experience points, kill streak rewards, and player perks have been retained, but the new features are what have people buzzing. The multi-player option allows more than one person to play online at once, an answer to complaints by fans. Players can also personalize how they look by selecting different perks, attachments, and unlocking differ-
ent styles of face paint. New game modes like “Wager Match” offer players the chance to lay their game points on the line and battle for supremacy. Another original feature is the ability to record and edit videos of game play and save them to the console. The Zombies game mode returns in this version as well. Similar to that offered by Call of Duty: World at War, players have to watch entrances into a building that they are trying to protect, and can purchase better weapons, earn upgrades and more. Different maps keep the player guessing. Zombie
dogs are introduced, as well as being able to play as political leaders like Presidents Nixon and Kennedy, even Fidel Castro. But new to this game is the ability to play Zombies online with other players across the gaming world. Players level up until everyone is dead, and can compare scores and kills with every other player online. Black Ops one ups its predecessors across the board, offering more features and variants to keep gamers interested. Overall, questions and complaints were answered, and new elements were added. Grade : A-
and some feel as though vinyl is the deepest portrayal of this art. “I feel like vinyl gives you an appreciation for the music and the artist that you can’t just get online,” says senior, Devyn Robuck. Robuck bought vinyl at Finest Records in Fort Collins until its closure. According to Paul Epstein, general manager of Twist and Shout Records in Denver, vinyl sales are on the rise. “Vinyl is an object of art. As downloads have become a force, there has been a need for an antidote. A lot of people feel a need to fight that force (…) and vinyl
seems to be the complete opposite of online music,” says Epstein. Despite the hope of success for vinyl, independent record stores are being trumped by the three largest music distributors in the world. Target, Wal-Mart, and Best Buy sell music for a lower price, thus drawing more customers. However, according to a study by the National Association of Recording Merchandising (NARM), these three distributive powerhouses are losing large percentages of their music selection. “Target, Wal-Mart, and Best Buy are the record stores’ number one enemy,” Mike Fratt, a board member of NARM, said. “But as their selection decreases, less people
want to buy their music there. Instead of coming to the record store, they find the same music online for free. But, over the past five years, vinyl sales have increased. Some people want to fight the online music rush. And I think this is why independent stores are up 1%.” Fratt says that “the war between physical and digital is over.” It is inevitable to see that the music industry has been affected by online downloading. Whether or not this revolution is good or bad is yet to be decided. It seems to be a clear consensus, however, that vinyl sales are going to support independent record stores through the digital era.
Duty from page B8
Record from page B8
Limelight
December 10, 2010
New Potter film casts spell on audiences by Chloe Evans Limelight Editor
It was advertised as the event of a generation, and was it ever. Released November 19, Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part One made over 125 million dollars on opening weekend alone, breaking records for the franchise. Millions of ‘Potterheads,’ who have grown up with the series braved the cold and hour-long waits to catch the midnight showing of the movie. As a self-proclaimed Harry Potter nerd, and an owner of far too much HP merchandise, the latest installment Movie did not disappoint. Potter (Daniel Radcliffe), along with Ron Weasley (Rupert Grint), and Hermione Granger (Emma Watson) set off on their escapade of searching for horcruxes, pieces of Voldemort’s (Ralph Fiennes) soul in order to destroy him once and for all. If none of this Potter lingo makes sense, that’s probably because you haven’t read or seen the previous books/movies. In which case, you should probably do so. The film acts as more of a documentary; it follows the trio through the struggle of trying to
Review
destroy the most powerful, evil wizard of their world. They are 17, frustrated, and confused on where to even begin in saving their society. Director David Yates does an amazing job of portraying nearly every important event from the book in the movie. Additionally, Radcliffe, Watson and Grint have matured into hard young adults who know how to portray their characters and show the struggles they have faced. The young actors have fully become their characters in this film. They finally show the true emotions and inner conflicts that make the books more than just children’s stories. Radcliffe portrays Harry’s despair of knowing that he must either kill or be killed, while Grint embodies the importance of Ron’s character. Though Ron has always seemed like the goofy third wheel to Hermione and Harry’s friendship, Deathly Hallows clearly explores the depth he brings to the trio. Spoiler alert- in the scene where Ron storms out on his two friends, the audience can feel his frustration toward the group’s lack of accomplishments, bitterness towards Harry for always stealing the spotlight, and
Jaap Buitendijk/Courtesy Warner Bros./MCT
his desire for Hermione to finally choose him over Harry. Deathly Hallows Part One was by far the most accurate of all of the movies. It included direct dialogue from the book and had nearly every scene in order. Though the film left out seemingly important scenes like Harry’s disguise at Bill and Fleur’s wedding and Peter Pettigrew’s death, the director filled in the gaps with other scenes that informed the audience of what had happened and what will happen in the second half. Of course, there were details left out that seem like it may be difficult for
Varsity Pizza: JV quality Calvin Jouard
Pizza is ranked alongside baseball, foreclosures, and democracy as a basis of American culture. No, we didn’t invent it, but it plays a large role in our lifestyle. Although pizza may not be Fort Collins’ strong point, there is no shortage of pizzerias throughout the city. The myriad of restaurants all boast individuality, something unique about each slice. Whether it be a wood-fired draw to attention or an especially doughy crust, each establishment claims to make the “best pizza in the Fort.” The pizzeria reign stretches mostly across the north end of town with locations spotted throughout the CSU campus. Recently, Varsity Pizza entered the mix, constructing headquarters off of Harmony Rd., near Conoco and Mountain States Drivers Education.
Food Review
First thoughts may regard the location of the restaurant as out of place, or, for lack of a better word, sketchy. Encompassed by a gas station, a liquor store, and a driver’s education business, Varsity awkwardly stands out among its small population of non-residential buildings. However, besides the inadequate gas station selection, the nearest food choices for residents of the area are located miles down the road in either direction. Upon entering, customers are greeted with signed pictures and autographed posters of various small-time athletes, a somewhat unsuccessful attempt to portray a sports themed pizzeria. The selection of pizzas is moderately wide, the menu accompanied by signs proclaiming a “New-York-style pie” and “Free Delivery.” The eaters’ joy at the prospect of an NY pizza may be demolished upon discovering that slices are served only between
Rocky Mountain Highlighter
Protecting the wizarding world: (Harry Potter (Radcliffe), Ron Weasley (Grint) and Hermione Granger (Watson) enter Grimmauld Place during their quest to destroy Lord Voldemort. Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part One has been advertised as the motion picture event of a generation and is the seventh movie in the series.
Three strikes, you’re out: A new local pizzeria opened on Harmony Rd. near Mountain States Drivers Education. Though the restaurant offers free delivery, the poor quality of the pizza trumps the positive aspects of the new eatery.
by Charlie Anderson Reporter
B7
11-2. Outside of those hours, only whole pizzas may be bought at substantially high prices. The food-fueled anticipation increases exponentially after ordering, slowly manifesting into impatience, and then to anger at the questionably long wait (considering a lack of customers). Once delivered, the pizza may not hold up to its “NYstyle” claim with a re-heated taste covered only by rubbery cheese and an overpowering tomato sauce. It may not be anything to brag about, but the crust provides a somewhat pleasing close to a disappointing meal. Varsity Pizza is a restaurant that customers want to like, with a charismatic feel and a home-based atmosphere. An eatery in the southwest corner of the city is logical, but it goes without saying that the free delivery will be the sole support in this seemingly small-time establishment. Grade: C+
the second part to compensate. For instance, Harry didn’t exactly disarm Draco Malfoy, which could change the entire ending dialogue between Harry and Voldemort in the ending battle scene. Considering the fact that this book was divided into two movies, it was difficult to predict where the first movie would end. Yates chose to cut off Part 1 immediately after Voldemort stole Dumbledore’s wand from his grave. Though this may have seemed to many fans as a horrible place to cut off the film, there was truly no other place to
end it. By leaving the trio in a safe place and showing Voldemort gaining power, Yates sets up Part Two to be incredibly action based, which it should be. However, all of these nitpicks come from someone who has read each book several times and has chapters nearly memorized. Overall, the audience still feels like they are friends with the trio and join them on the journey to destroy Voldemort once and for all. Now— only eight more months until the grand finale and the end of a series of a lifetime. Grade: A+
by Trevor Merrill Reporter
of Cudi’s other albums. Another few strange songs occur, all varying with different inconsistent sounds. One even features Kanye West and sounds more like a rock and roll song than rap. After these unimpressive songs, the albums best song comes in at track 12. “Mr. Rager” is an all around good song in every aspect. It starts off with the unique Cudi sound; distorted bass, a steady beat and great vocal inflection. It starts with unique Cudi lyrics, has a change in tone and pitch at all times, and has no repetition. The chorus especially does a great job at contrasting the rest of the song, considering it has a noticeably higher pitch than the rest of the track. Four additional less-than-mediocre songs follow “Mr. Rager.” After these four sub-mediocre songs, comes the song “Trapped in My Mind.” This song might get trapped in one’s mind, because its annoying sound is not easy to forget. This song is a terrible conclusion to the album and contains awful music complete with a monotone voice. The music has no good beat, thus no solid rhythm for the vocals to follow. Nothing about this song is worth listening to. Besides the tracks “Scott Mescudi vs. The World,” “Marijuana,” and “Mr. Rager” this album is not worth anyone’s time or money.
Mr. Rager lacks Cudi’s trademark voice, sound Kid Cudi fails to impress with his new album titled, Man on the Moon II: The Legend of Mr. Rager. Although he has a past of pretty solid music with a unique sound, Man on the Moon II does not reach Cudi’s normal standards. On this 17-track album, only three songs reach the bar his old albums have set, while the other 14 fail to do so. The album cover sets a unique tone to the album, but the songs fail to follow suit. The art is peculiar, depicting a man sitting in a chair with bright stars and planets glowing behind him. However random it may be, it is a cool and different graphic. The same cannot be said about the music itself. The album starts off with the song “Scott ►The Legend of Mr. Mescudi vs. The Rager album World,” featuring Cee-Lo Green. This song is one of the better on the album. The background music is strange, but the vocals by Cudi are just like his old albums, and Green has great contrast to Cudi’s vocals which creates a cool transition between sections of the song. Track number four, Marijuana, however strange and repetitive the lyrics may be, takes on the form of all his classic music. The music is like the others in all
CD Review
Grade: D
B8
Rocky Mountain Highlighter
Black Ops blows prequels out of water People had been standing, sitting, and sleeping in one place for hours. The line extended hundreds of from the front Game feet entrance, waiting patiently for the doors to open. “I sat there for six hours with nothing but homework,” sophomore Grant Gamble said. “It got a little old, but the last hour was full of anticipation.” This wasn’t the opening of the next Twilight movie and these weren’t 13-year-old girls hoping to look at the half naked bodies of vampires and werewolves. The people standing in line for hours
Review
were stone cold video game fanatics, waiting to grab the latest piece of first-person shooting game history; Call of Duty: Black Ops. The most recent installment of the Call of Duty series, rated top shooter game on the PS3 by gamespot.com, has gamers across Lobo Nation psyched about the newest game on the market. “This was fun enough for me to go to school on two and a half hours of sleep the next day,” said Gamble, who stayed up until the 12 am opening of GameStop at Foothills Mall to make sure he got his copy. Junior Trevor Skaar felt the phrase “man’s new best friend” would be the best way to describe the new video game.
What's in the Limelight? Dec. 10: Concert: Flobots at the Aggie Movie Release: The Chronicles of Narnia: Voyage of the Dawn Treader
Latest Call of Duty game impresses fans by Ryan McCrary Reporter
L
imelight
December 10, 2010
Dec. 13: School: Winter Concert MCT
Dominating the enemy: An intense scene is pictured from the recently released video game Call of Duty: Black Ops. The recent installment is the newest one in the series and players fights as an agent during the Cold War.
The most recent contribution to the Call of Duty series sends the player back to the Cold War. Campaign mode allows you to play as SOG agent Alex Mason, who recounts his missions while being interrogated by unknown
enemies. Missions vary from Vietnam to Cuba, from assassinating world leaders to finding lost airplanes in the middle of a Jump to DUTY, page B6
Dec. 14: CD Release: Michael Jackson-Michael Dec. 16: School: Finals (periods 3&4) Dec. 17: Movie Release: How Do You Know School: Finals (periods 1&2) School: Winter Break begins (through Jan. 3) Dec. 22: Movie Release: Little Fockers Movie Release: Gulliver’s Travels Concert: Trans-Siberian Orchestra at the Pepsi Center
Picking the pocket of the music industry Record stores affected by downloads by Charlie Anderson Reporter
To even attempt to process the evolution of music is a staggering process within itself. The growth has expanded from the harpsichord to the piano to the electric organ. The progression has ranged from Bach concertos echoing through cathedrals in the 18th Century to Jay-Z at the center of a sold-out Limelight Madison Square Garden. The diffusion spreads from the British Invasion of the 1960s to the Glastonbury Music Festival of 2010. Lately, listeners have been forced to examine the advancement in music technology. Whether the advancement is for better or worse is based completely on one’s opinion. In 1999, the music world took a turn when a 19-year-old college dropout, Shawn Fanning, and his friends created Napster, a peerto-peer file sharing program that allowed listeners to trade music without cost. Although Napster
Special
was shut down not long after its creation, it opened a realm of possibilities and programs for the online music community. Today, music files and whole CDs can be easily downloaded for free with many file sharing programs. Debate exists not only about the morality of file sharing, but for the future of music itself. “Music downloads are just cheaper and more convenient,” says Bob Fuchs, Retail Music Manager at Electric Fetus Records (Minneapolis). “But since about 2000, our sales have dropped nearly half.” Independent record stores and labels are shutting down business due to a lack of necessity of the physical record. Artists are losing money to fans that download tracks for free online. Some listeners are angered that file sharers are losing sight of what music really is. This part of the music community feels as though music is an art form, an expression,
Jump to RECORD, page B6
54%
of students surveyed have used an illegal downloading program to obtain music
26%
of students surveyed think that illegally downloading music is wrong, but because everybody does it
47%
of students surveyed don’t buy physical CDs or DVDs 338 students surveyed
LimeWire shut down for good by Calvin Jouard Sports Editor
Illegal downloaders suffered a loss after the popular file-sharing software program LimeWire was terminated. On Oct. 26, U.S. District Judge Kimba Wood issued a court order that disabled the file-sharing aspect of the software. Wood ruled that LimeWire founder Mark Gorton committed “copyright infringement, engaged in unfair competition, and induced copyright infringement.” LimeWire, the free peer-to-peer file sharing program “is under a court order to stop distributing and supporting its file-sharing software,” according to a legal notice posted on the home screen of the program. However , the closure of this program isn’t necessarily a bad thing, according to junior Elijah Eccher. “(The termination of LimeWire) makes uneducated downloaders safer, because it forces people to use
Jump to MUSIC, page B6
Dec. 24: Movie Release: Secret Sunshine Dec. 28: CD Release: Jesse McCartney-Have It All Dec. 10: Concert: Crystal Castles at the Boulder Theatre Jan. 11: CD Release: Cage The Elephant-Thank You, Happy Birthday CD Release: CakeShowroom Of Compassion Jan. 14: Movie Release: The Dilemma Movie Release: Barney’s Version Jan. 17: School: No school, Martin Luther King Jr. Day Jan. 18: CD Release-The Script- Science & Faith