The Rampage 2270 Highway 133 Carbondale, CO 81623
March 2018
Volume 11 Issue 5
Model UN 2018: RFHS Students Take on NYC
- Lilly Peery
The National High School Model United Nations (NHSMUN) conference that takes place annually in March was looked forward to by all members of RFHS’ Model UN team. The conference, attended by 2,000 high school students from around the world, is modeled after the United Nations conference led by the world’s leaders. The after-school club is popular at RFHS as it offers the chance to travel to New York City and improve academic aspects such as public speaking and higher-level thinking for students. This year, RFHS traveled with 30 students who represented a variety of committees and two different countries. Seniors Chelsey Serrano and Iliana Castillon attended the NHSMUN conference for their 3rd and final time. Together they represented Cote d’Ivoire and worked to solve global social-humanitarian issues for the Social Humanitarian and Cultural (SOCHUM) committee. With much experience and many great memories under her belt, Serrano said that she enjoyed “building stron-
Photo by Matt Wells
ger friendships and relationships with the people [who went] to New York this year.” Similarly, Castillon also enjoyed developing stronger relationships with her peers as well as taking a larger leadership role in her committee. “Since [we’ve been] going and know what to expect because we’ve gone the past [three] years [to the NHSMUN conference], it was easier to take a lead instead of wait for someone to share ideas that we agreed with,” said Castillon. The students who attended the conference from RFHS ranged from veteran-to-newbie sophomores and seniors. One of the rookie delegates, sophomore William Luckett, represented Cote d’Ivoire for the Special Political and Decolonization (UNICEF) committee, remarked that he “look[ed] forward to being able to show [his] interests in the problems the world faces on another level.” In between committee sessions, which ranged from 2-3 a day, delegates were allowed downtime to explore the Big Apple. Stefan Platzer, a junior exchange student from
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Photo by Matt Wells
Austria, commented that he enjoyed spending time with friends and exploring the world-renowned city. “It [the NHSMUN conference] really gives students a sense of our world,” said Mr. Wells, an RFHS social studies teacher and MUN club leader. “I want them [the student attendees], to gain a better understanding of the challenges that we face as a human species - as a world… Getting students more engaged with world affairs is probably my biggest goal.” The annual NHSMUN conference has proven to be beneficial to participating students in many ways: from bettering public speaking abilities to pushing students to think and find solutions outside of the box. According to junior Solana Teitler, participating in Model UN has been beneficial for her academically, specifically in terms of writing resolutions and brainstorming solutions. “Brainstorming solutions for unsolvable issues helps your creativity and your ability to think creatively. I also think that conversing in academic language helps you become more comfortable talking like that,” said Teitler. As far as advice for newcomers goes, not being afraid to speak your mind was the general consensus. For the 30 proud Model United Nations delegates of RFHS, the 2018 March NHSMUN conference was an unforgettable experience, bettering each and every one of them through social and academic aspects.
What’s Inside
Daniel’s Scholarship Finalist Page 2
RFHS Student Opinion on Grading System Page 4-5
Normandy Trip Page 6
A Look into RFHS Spring Sports Page 7 Photo by Matt Wells
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Feature
2 Rampage March 2018
RFHS Daniels Fund Finalist: Emily Johnson
-Hannah Bingaman
“If you are going to excel in something, excel in something you love doing.” RFHS Senior and Daniels Fund Scholarship candidate Emily Johnson applies this mindset to her daily life. Throughout her high school career, Johnson has been nothing but extraordinary, taking on heavy class loads, as well as working, and being involved in Student Council. Her “performance at school and [her] community” has given her the opportunity to be in the running for this prestigious scholarship, which provides a four-year renewable college scholarship for students graduating from a high school in Colorado, New Mexico, Wyoming, and Utah. The scholarship is for those who demonstrate “exceptional character, leadership, and a commitment to serving their community.” Johnson is passionate about learning. Learning new things and being able to discover the mysteries of the world has always excited her. With school being a positive outlet for her, Johnson has taken on many opportunities in high school, including a full schedule at Colorado Mountain College (CMC), as well as culinary arts and music classes. Johnson’s goal is to attend Boston University, where she wants to get a doctorate in astronomy and astrophysics, and eventually work for NASA. Boston University is the perfect fit Johnson says, stating that “academically it has many departments that I am interested in, not just astronomy and astrophysics. They also offer marine science, and offer a great foreign language program.” On top of that, Johnson states that she
loves “the cold, cruddy weather.” Boston is a city in which Johnson can see herself being able to grow as a person and be happy.
receive the scholarship, but with or without it, I am going to make the most out of my life, I just won’t go to Boston. The scholarship would be super helpful just because financial aid is such a scary part of the whole college application process, however, I am going to get where I need to go, no matter what.” While the friends, family, and RFHS community believe that Johnson fully embodies the characteristics of a Daniels Scholar, she is grateful for the fact that she has been given the opportunity, and it means so much to her that she is even being considered for such a life changing achievement. “Everything that I have worked for is paying off.”
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Former RFHS student Isak Resnick states that Johnson is “one of the most resilient, strong-minded, self-driven, and passionate people [she] knows. Once she has her mind set on something, her heart is set on it too, and [she] thinks that is why she is in the running for this profoundly amazing opportunity.” While Johnson is a good candidate for the scholarship, not receiving it won’t stop Johnson from getting where she wants to be. “It would suck if I didn’t
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Student Voices Shine at 5th Annual Youth Poetry Slam
-Tyler Gruel
Slamming down in downtown Carbondale. And no, it wasn’t a cage fight. Friday February 16th saw students from all over the Roaring Fork Valley come together for Aspen Words 5th Annual Youth Poetry Slam at the Carbondale 3rd Street Center. The event was the culmination of an annual two-week poets-inthe-schools program known as ‘The Poetry Project.’ This-project was founded in 2014 as a partnership between Aspen Words and award winning poets and teaching artists Myrlin Hepworth and Logan Phillips. Mercedez Holtry and Toluwanimi Obiwole, fellow poets, activists, and advocates for youth expression through poetry, have joined Myrlin and Logan in the Poetry Project helping the project expand to reach more students throughout the valley. year The Poetry Project has grown to reach over 3,000 students from Aspen to Glenwood Springs annually, providing students with support for their creativity and inner voices as well as a stage for self-expression. Adam Carballeira, an english teacher at Roaring Fork High School, expressed his emotions regarding the importance of the Poetry Project and youth poetry slam in the valley. “I absolutely feel that the Poetry Project has impacted the youth of the valley. The poets have worked with thousands of kids over the years, and MANY have found their own voice and an outlet for their ideas.” In regards to the youth poetry slam event itself Carballeira stated, “Yes it’s important. The Youth Poetry Slam is one of the most authentic events of the year. I wish more people would come. If you really want to know what’s happening in the hearts and minds of today’s young people, this is the best way!” He feels that the project not only impacts students in the classroom but also
in their everyday lives as well. “I think the project has given a lot of kids confidence as writers- that they don’t have to try to be “right” all the time or second guess themselves. If you give your honest opinions and ideas, that has value. I think it’s helped kids learn to trust themselves, and to be real,” explained Carballeira. As for the future of the poetry project Carb stated, “I think they should keep doing what they are doing. Aspen Words and their donors have given us a rare opportunity. I’d like to see some kids get involved in poetry and slam year-round instead of just once a year. The more poems the better!” The 2018 poetry slam included twenty unique youth poets from all of the Roaring Fork Valley’s high schools who took to the stage to express their personal experiences, messages, and insights about the world around and inside of them. (Insert interview with Daniella here) Daniella Rivera, a sophomore at RFHS, was a participant and winner in this years slam getting second place overall. Rivera described her slam experience as, “I always went to the slam early enough to participate but in the past I had never had the courage to do it. I think the reason I did this year I felt that I had actually prepared and had a poem to perform that really meant something to me.” Often even if attending poetry slams is a frequent pastime of yours, it can often be confusing how students even prepare for events like this as public speaking is one of the most common fears. Rivera elaborated on the process poets participating in the slam undergo saying, “It was really interesting because I always thought you just showed up for fun but I learned it wasn’t just that and all of these
really great poets who helped us learn how to be less stressed and prepare to perform.” Another often misunderstood aspect of poetry competitions is how so many differing voices and perspectives can be judged against each other and this can seem unfair and unequal to some. Rivera explained that she feels, “the slam process is fair to everyone who participates because even if you don’t win it’s really special to get to be a part of the experience of going up there and reading.” It’s clearly evident that since it’s founding, from both student and teacher perspectives, The Poetry Project and Youth Poetry Slam have continued to support and empower student voices through the medium of written and spoken word poetry and will hopefully continue this important mission in the future.
Courtesy Photo
Feature Coincidences of Roaring Fork High School
-Ruthie Brown
Was the priest at your wedding your high school boyfriend? Dammit Joe, you ruined the reception! Or perhaps, was that family RV manufactured by “Inferno,” lit aflame? Some people would argue coincidences are simply ridiculous or a message sent from a higher being, Are these really coincidences or is it simply meant to be? Here are five coincidences that staff and students at RFHS have experienced. 1.) My friend and I wanted to go see Hamilton together, but we couldn’t due to the fact that when you are buying multiple tickets, the largest amount you can purchase at one time is 4 and both of our families wanted to go as well, so we had too many people. We accepted that we wouldn’t be able to go together, instead agreeing to both buy tickets separately. When my parents ordered them, we didn’t talk about what day we were planning to go. In the end, we bought tickets for the same day and same exact time. What are the odds! -Freshmen Jessica Kollar 2.) My family owned a ranch up in old Snowmass, and, when I was younger, we had this caretaker who took care of the cabins and irrigation. When I was up there one day, a little girl came up to me. She asked me who I was and why I was there. I mean seriously, she asked me like I didn’t belong! The property was mine, obviously! Who did she think she was! We got in a big fight, and apparently her aunt was the caretaker. She brought her and her sisters up to the ranch when she was working. Anyways, a few months passed and I was starting kindergarten, and there
she was...the little girl from the ranch. How dare she go to the same school as me! However, I didn’t see her much following that and eventually she moved schools. A few years later so did I. So I started there, and guess who else was there. She was! We were in different classes and talked rarely. Strangely enough we became friends quickly and have stayed that way into high school. The little girl I hated is strangely now my best friend. -Freshmen Charlotte Roberts 3.) I was at a party and in the process of moving schools. I met a woman at the party who was a teacher at the Marble Charter School. It was a coincidence. I had been planning to move to this school and I had talked about it the morning before. I moved there a month later and she turned out to be my teacher. -Freshmen Maddison Diaz 4.) My family and I were in Costa Rica for vacation. We went to restaurants and ate. One night, we ran into a close family friend who was there on vacation as well. We hadn’t planned to meet him or anything like that. It was just a coincidence. -Freshmen Isabella Knaus 5.) My husband and I were traveling in Venice, Italy. We wanted to go to the Guggenheim Museum, so we got our tickets and as we were walking up, I noticed someone. I immediately thought to myself, I know her. So, I walked up...and it was one of my former state students. She was completing a six week internship there. Small world! -Art Teacher Leslie Keery
Senior Spotlight: Justin Thompson
-Daniel Cortez Lopez
Roaring Fork High School senior Justin Thompson has made the most of his time by participating in basketball, track and field, intramurals, and volunteering as a coach for the Glenwood Springs Club track team. On his own time, Thompson looks forward to spending time with his friend, sports, and video games. As the captain of the varsity basketball team, Thompson has had many ups and downs. Thompson is a strong captain and good leader because he guides the team and helps them to become the best players and people they can be. He takes on whatever role he needs to fill in order to help his team members. Thompson enthusiastically sums up the season as great and remarkable. Thompson said, “There were a couple of changes we could’ve done to have more wins. Some simple regrets in games were turnovers, shots, passes, and traveling.” Thompson also reflected that more effort could have been put into some games. In addition to being one of the team’s leading scorers on the court, Thompson also excels in track and field. Thompson has been a key component throughout track in the past four years; many underclassmen look up to him. Since his sophomore year, Thompson has been the second best long jumper in the state. One of Thompson’s favorite memories was playing against Basalt last year in a heated home Basketball game. Thompson said, “I’m going to miss the community and sense of family present in our school and valley. My goal until graduation is to enjoy every moment in sports and at school until it’s over.” With plans to become a physical therapist, Thompson is narrowing down his top school choices,
deciding between attending California State University(CSU) in San Marcos or University of Colorado in Boulder (CU). Thompson sees himself running track and field at CSU; however, he also sees himself playing basketball for CU. Thompson will focus on his final school decisions in the coming weeks. Thompson will come to a final decision in the coming weeks. Over the past four years, Thompson has had a fulfilling high school experience. He is looking forward to finishing the basketball season strong, having a great track season, and continue to work ambitiously in the next steps of his life.
Courtesy Photo
3 Rampage March 2018
Humans of the Roaring Fork Valley
-Chelsey Serrano
On Monday February 26th, the Supreme Court rejected the Trump Administration’s request to expedite hearing a court case meant to validate the termination of Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA). The decision is a relief for some because it allows more time for DACA renewals, though no new applications will be accepted. Pressure has been directed towards Congress as the public urges them to find a permanent solution for undocumented youth beyond DACA renewals. Simultaneously, activists across the nation are striving to keep the movement alive. One individual in the Roaring Fork valley has done his part to ensure that locals do not forget about the need to protect our DACA youth. Will Hodges organized a rally held on Saturday, February 24th at Centennial Park. Holding signs that read statements such as “Protect Dreamers,” Hodges and others did their part in reminding the valley to continue supporting Dreamers.
“I used to live in Tucson, Arizona where immigration is a big issue as well as the border wall. While I was on Facebook one day, I saw that one of my friends from there...posted that he had toolkits for anyone who wanted to hold their own event, their own rally, or their own letter writing on behalf of the Dreamers, and against the border wall. When I saw this post I thought I could try and organize something. This was especially interesting because not many people in Colorado are paying much attention to the border wall. There is a lot more opposition to it in California, Arizona, and Texas where the wall is being constructed. I don’t think that a lot of the people in Colorado even realize that the wall has already been started. It was because of this that I wanted to get the word out, so I offered to hold an event up here. Under President Trump, ICE is treating border crossings as a crime, but it’s not. It’s a misdemeanor. He’s treating the immigrant population as a criminal population when they aren’t. They are detaining and deporting parents of children citizen children - who go to school and are quite young. They are tearing apart families and are orphaning children here in this country when the best thing for these citizen children would be to keep their families together- especially if these parents are working, paying taxes, and not breaking laws. I think Trump is ending [DACA] somewhat arbitrarily and needs to show the reasoning for ending this program that’s benefiting almost a million children who show a great deal of initiative, hard work ethics, and are going to be contributing a lot to our country. I think what is important is that the Trump Administration hears from more citizens that demonizing and going after the immigrant community is wrong and it’s not in the best tradition of this country, which is a country of immigrants and was built by immigrants. The country faces a lot of problems and I don’t think illegal immigration is what this country needs to be focusing on.”
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Rampage | March 2018
Honor Roll
Students who obtained a GPA of 3.5-3.75
Principals List
FOC FOC
Students who obtained a GPA of 3.75 and above
Congratulations to the Honor Roll and Principal’s List recipients of the semester 1 of the 2017-2018 school year Senior Class: Ordonez Lomeli, Margaret Cruz, Felina G Good, Ralph M Ramos Lechuga, Marco P Sotelo, Eric D Rodriguez Alonso, Kenia Alvarez, Gissel V Pacheco, Kevin F Vega Munoz, Lindsy Junior Class: Kuhl, John D Platzer, Stefan Pimentel, Alondra Farris, Caroline F Clemente Alonzo, Ronald Palomino, Grace L Salas, Helen J Sophomore Class: Weidemann, Lance D Thompson, Madison M Ramirez Lopez, Sara I Bensch, Tomas M
Castonon Soto, Joana Gual, Mercedes Lopez, Jesenya M Arrazate Perez, Alexa G Gomez, Bria A Marquez Requeno, Katie Requeno Requeno, Robin Topete, Michelle Freshman Class: Camp, Ryan M Diehl, Jessie A Gonzalez, Judith Rascon Ortega, Jose A Santana Meraz, Emmanuel Aguilar, Melissa Diaz, Madison A Melendez, Yoselin Moravek, Patrick D Nunez, Edwin O Santos Candela, Liliana Torres Mancinas, Jesus A Vazquez Ibarra, Ana R Yanez Ferrufino, Danishia M
Congratulations to our scholars!
Senior Class: Hanlon, Zoe M Serrano, Chelsey A Montoya, Vanessa J Ulrych, Isabella G Morford, Josey J Ettelson, Reece T Johnson, Emily F Castillon Prado, Iliana J Lee, Kloe I Thompson, Justin B Gianinetti, Paige A Stroud, Trevor L Bingaman, Hannah J Ochko, Spencer G Rusby, Megan E Stryker, Jaden J Fuentes, Diana L Bensch, Lucas I Junior Class: Teitler, Solana S Knaus, Aidan J Erickson, Logan A Kelley, Lisa A Kotz, Natasha L Sloan, Aidan N Cassetty, Maeve E Laird, William M Nickamin, Hayden Hernandez, Marco A Andrade, Lux E Page, Kassidy A Penaloza, Keyri S Rose, William W Baird, Kyle D Burger, Grady T Cole, Hannah L Santana, Gabriela Sophomore Class: Hamilton, Rex R Maker, Makenzie A Penzel, Lucia E Bruell, Renee J Fuller, Ruby M Gomez Rodriguez, Jesus Lee, Isabella K Brennan, Connor P Broadhurst, Emily R Brooke, Althea K Candela Arellanes, Charlie
Cortes Zuniga, Mariana Foote, Aiden M Nickamin, Elijah Orf, Kylie E Roeser, Keturah G Schlueter, Lauren E Schramer, Lucas T Ulrych, Tristan C Valdez Duran, Diego A Wisroth, Caroline R Harrington, John F Hernandez Guillen, Diego Meade, Lucy G Patton, Beverly A Sanchez Garcia, Joseline I Teitler, Shaun B Mendoza, Diego A Peery, Lillian M Soto Castanon, Joana J Jones, Henri F Freshman Class: Brown, Ruthie E Griebel, Bailey R Moon, Sophia N Savard, Erica R Torres, Cesar Villarreal, Austin R Jardine, Grace M Alcantara, Julian A Bingaman, William J Carballeira, Talon C Cortes Lopez, Daniel E Crownhart, Letey R Huerta, Erubiel N Knaus, Isabella L Lee, Ava K Leon-Gamez, Vanessa Lindgren, Maya E Maker, Tristan C Parras, Ashley N Schramer, Sydney E Thomas, Kaley B Villa Alvarado, Angel G Cortes Zuniga, Juan C Cruz Hernandez, Lesly R Kollar, Jessica A Lopez Perez, Keiry G Meisler, Alexandra L Nieslanik, Lily M Samuelson, Ruben J Tena, Diego I Ferry, Samantha T
CUS CUS
Rampage | March 2018
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Student Opinions on Grade Reports
Students at Roaring Fork High School were surveyed about their thoughts on grade reports. Their results are displayed in the following chart. Here is what RFHS students had to say anonymously about the school’s current grading system:
“I feel that GPA’s don’t reflect what we have learned because personally I know I am a very smart individual but I don’t do well on tests and I don’t always finish my homework, while half the kids in the school that have good GPA’s cheat on everything they do. In our school if I wanted to have a good GPA all I would have to do it cheat, but if you cheat now you’re going to be a cheater your whole life, and I’m actually trying to go somewhere, using my skills, that I earned.”
“I think it depends greatly on the circumstances and whether or not my teacher believes in me as a student. For instance, if I don’t have time to turn in a project and do to that I receive a failing grade which can be changed. I also think that with the different ways people learn it is really challenging to effectively test students equally as some students my exceed in areas not on a test or not required of them in their classes.“
“Teachers don’t understand that nowadays school is a test based solely on being able to remember, and some students have a problem with memorization so it’s very disappointing when they’re truly trying but simply cannot do it because of common inabilities, and teachers and parents only view knowledge as a representation of their GPA”
“I believe the American school system tells us to focus more on our GPA, grades, and class rank rather than the knowledge we are actually obtaining. The way our school system is set up kids feel that cheating and getting the grade they “need” is better than attempting to actually learn and possibly not get the grades they desire. We are taught to prioritize our grades over our mental health, social lives, and our learning process.”
“I don’t care if I know that material or not, as long as I have all A’s so I can get scholarships” “I think my GPA represents how well I do on tests.“
News
6 Rampage March 2018
A Peek at the Proposed 2018-2019 Calendar
-Lucy Meade
The proposal of the 2018-2019 Roaring Fork School District (RFSD) calendar unveils potential adjustments that could benefit staff, students, and community members by presenting options for changes in start dates, different breaks throughout the school year, and later daily start times. According to Kelsy Been, who is the Public Information Officer on the District Leadership Team, “[District leadership has] been more thorough in how [they’ve] collected feedback on the calendar for the last two years.” However, the District Leadership Team has always attempted to use this feedback to adjust the calendar for the RFSD community’s needs. Having completed the survey sent by the District Leadership team to parents, staff, and community members involved with the schools, some people have concerns about the proposed calendar. For students, one main concern is the length of the summer. Compared to this past year’s late start due to the Glenwood Springs bridge construction, the start date of next year will seem early, seeing as it begins nearly two weeks sooner - August 20th. Others view the earlier start as offering advantages to the RFSD. The 2 extra weeks would mean less time for the review to cut into the year’s curriculum, which would benefit both students with their learning, and teachers with their planning. An early start would also make time for more opportunities for breaks and planning days spread throughout the school year, which is helpful for teachers when student tests and homework begin piling up. RFHS Principal Brett Stringer stated that “[they] looked at planning days for teachers” so that next year would be less intense regarding the amount of work to be graded. In contrast, past years were designed with widely spread apart breaks which meant
longer periods of time for work to pile up for both students and teachers. According to the calendar survey, the majority of staff also supported the idea of longer breaks in between quarters and semesters for organization and planning purposes. Another controversial adjustment being considered is the possibility of a later start in the mornings. The proposed change is to begin the school day for high school students at 9 AM, instead of the current time of 8 AM. The change is being considered because of research into the teenage brain that shows that teenagers benefit from later starts to the school day. A later start has been considered in the past when planning the calendar, but has never been set in motion. According to the survey responses, the majority of staff were not in favor of the late start, but most parents were supportive of it. Principal Stringer stated, “We have observed other high schools with the late start, such as Cherry Creek.” The Denver school used to begin school at 7:00 a.m., but due to popular vote, it was changed to an 8:30 start. Stringer mentioned that the late start for Cherry Creek “seemed to have a positive impact,” and received support from both students and staff. However, Vice Principal Kelsie Goodman also acknowledged that there may be certain constraints or difficulties with this time change, such as bus schedules. With this in mind, the RFSD will continue researching the topic to best benefit the entire Ram community for next year’s calendar. These adjustments for next year’s calendar could also potentially play a larger role in the future. According to Been, “If the proposed calendar for next year is approved by the board, a similar calendar will be developed for the 2019-20 school year.” Changes
D-day is the Day to go to Normandy
-Collin Shapard
On June 19th, four students from Roaring Fork High School (RFHS) will head to France in order to explore Normandy Beach, further knowledge on D-Day, and become fully immersed in a new culture. This amazing exposure to history is thanks to the Aspen Foundation, who annually award $3,700 scholarships to nine lucky students across the Roaring Fork Valley. This scholarship covers the entirety of costs for the Normandy Academy trip - hosted by the National World War II Academy - where students travel to Louisiana for two days in order to visit museums in order to build foundational knowledge of the historical event before shipping off to France. The National World War II Academy describes it as “an overseas educational journey that challenges students to learn from the choices made during the historical D-Day invasions.” These students are also granted college credit through Nicholls State University. In order to become a contender for this extraordinary experience, students were required to submit an essay in which the board of the Aspen Foundation reviewed in a difficult selection process. After weeks of consideration, the board of the Aspen Foundation choose nine outstanding students. Ralph Good, a senior who went on the trip during the summer of 2017, talks about how “extraordinarily grateful” he is to had been given the opportunity. Good spoke about how “cool [it was] to see where the events he learned so much about actually took place.” Moreover, he talks about how amazing the experience was, and
how his favorite memory was being able to meander to the top of the Eiffel Tower. Another student, Frankie Harrington, who is going on the trip this coming summer says, “I can’t wait to explore France and learn first hand about one of the most affluent fights in US history.” Overall, this is a monumentally life-shaping experience that enables students from across the Roaring Fork Valley to see a part of the world through a finetoned academic lens. Registration will begin at the start of the next school year. Take this opportunity to learn about D-day: one of the most influential fights to be fought by the Allied forces.
Students who attended the Paul Bushong sponsored normandy trip Courtesy Photo
made to the 2018-2019 calendar will potentially carry on to the year after as well.
SerranosMarbleInc@gmail.com Cell: (970)948-7321 Office: (970)384-2015
The Community Office for Resource Efficiency (CORE), in partnership with CLEER and Earth Guardians, is thrilled to present the Changemakers - Tyler Gruel Challenge, an educational outreach program to activate students of the Roaring Fork Valley to save energy.
Sports The Flight from Aspen to Pyeongchang was Full
7 Rampage March 2018
Spring Sports Update
-Ralphie Good
There is no better place to live during the Winter Olympics than Colorado, especially in our valley. Colorado sent a nation leading 36 athletes to the 2018 Winter Games in Pyeongchang, South Korea, and eight of them come from the area between Aspen and Eagle. Usually the citizens of our valley are accustomed to feeling pride when one of our country-men is standing on the podium with a medal strung around their neck. However, this year we are seeing hometown heros represent the United States overseas. The Roaring Fork Valley is arguably the freestyle capital of the World. With athletes such as Torin Yater-Wallace and Alex Ferreira on skis, and Jake Pates on a snowboard there are lots of medal opportunities for our local halfpipe competitors. Yater-Wallace (Basalt) and Ferreira (Aspen), both qualified for the halfpipe finals after finishing 3rd and 2nd respectively. Going up against extremely tough competition a couple days later, Ferreira put down a fantastic run and was able to secure a silver medal in his 1st Olympics. Unfortunately, Yater-Wallace was unable to break the podium after a scary crash on his final run. Though freestyle is what we are known for, cross-country skiing is another strength in our valley. Aspen local, Simi Hamilton, competed in his third
Photo Courtesy of Reese Brown
and final olympics this year, and has been one of the most decorated American cross-country skiers of the 21st century. Hamilton attended Aspen High School, and then went to Middlebury College, where he was a 3x NCAA All-American. Throughout his career, Hamilton has won a US Championship, an International Skiing Federation Championship, and has reached the podium in various other international competitions. “I’m extremely proud of what I’ve accomplished on the World Cup and at the World Championships,” said Hamilton, who trains 800 hours per year, but “Without the support of Aspen Valley Ski Club and my coaches, there is absolutely no way I’d be where I am today in my athletic career.” Despite being in such a small valley, we have the resources to follow our passions just like Hamilton. Team USA Cross-Country won their first gold medal this year when Jessie Diggins and Kikkan Randall crossed the finish line a split second before Sweden in the freestyle team sprint. Though Hamilton does not see an Olympic medal in his future (he plans on retiring before the next olympics), he does believe that the United States has the ability to build off of their first gold medal in this discipline, and become a cross-country skiing powerhouse. “The sport is gaining some great traction right now and will continue to do so,” said Hamilton. “It’s fun to be a part of that momentum, and I’m proud to say that I’ve contributed to that.” Having local Olympians in the Winter Olympics has become normal for our valley in recent years. “It’s really cool and inspiring to see people that went to our same schools in the Olympics,” said Roaring Fork student, Megan Rusby. “It shows local kids that we can achieve great things athletically.” Programs like Aspen Valley Ski Club, and role models like Simi Hamilton make it possible for kids in this valley to represent our country, and be Olympians.
Girls Soccer • Rigorous two-a-day practices have been in full swing as they prepare for their first varsity game against • Head varsity coach Nick Forbes is full of enthusiasm for the upcoming season. Girls Lacrosse • New head coach Jason Rusby, looks to build off of the success the team has had in previous years. • There is a lot of participation this year from girls around the valley, and they are excited to get started. Baseball • With a strong returning core, the Rams hope to start the season off strong against the defending league campions, Delta, on opening day 3/9. • An intersquad showdown on March 5th drew strong performances from the varsity pitching staff, and showcased some of the young talent this team has. • After suffering a scary head injury during the 2nd practice of the year, Junior, Kyle Baird, has been released from the hospital, and is hoping to get back on the field soon.
RFHS Track and Field is Hopping into the Spring Season
-Frankie Harrington
The RFHS track season began on February 26th, and many of the athletes and their coaches have high hopes and expectations that the athletes will vastly improve their times from last season. RFHS sent two students to the state meet last year, yet many more athletes on this years team have the capability to reach that goal again this year. The RFHS track coach is Ryan Erickson, who is also the head athletic trainer for RFHS. Physical education teacher Ken Woodard also helps out after school with the athletes. “They’re both great,” said sophomore Makenzie Maker. “They push us to be the best we can be.” Maker plans to try out other events other than the 800m and mile this season. “I want to do different events because I think it will be fun to do something different, not that the events last year were bad or anything.” Her coaches have inspired her to push herself. “Success happens with the preparation at every practice. We like to value every practice and every rep as important so that they have the tools they need to succeed,” said Erickson. An athlete to look out for this season is senior Trevor Stroud. Stroud competes in long distance, which includes the mile and the 800m. “I want to get around 4:50 for the mile, and qualify for state in the 4x800m relay.” Stroud has strong beliefs that he can break his
personal best times because of the hard work he put in during the offseason. Attending track meets can be exhausting as they typically take all day to complete, and while athletes will only compete in a small number of the events that will take place, it is important that they prepare
Courtesy Photo
for their events the right way. “You have to plan when you are going to drink water and eat,” said Stroud. “This is important so you’re ready and prepared for your race.” Track and field might be an individual sport in some scenarios, but most of the athletes say it feels more like a team sport, due to how close the athletes are with each other. “Even though it’s an individual
sport, it feels a lot like a team sport because you’re all encouraging each other and practicing together,” says Stroud. The two students who went to state last year was now Seniors Jasper Germain and Justin Thompson. They will look to reach that prestigious goal again this year. “My goal this season is to qualify as many athletes as we can for the state championships, and to finish as high as we can at the 3A Western Slope League Meet. Our boys team have a chance to challenge for the league title this year,” said Erickson.
Entertainment Gems of the Valley: Gus Darien Arena (Carbondale Rodeo Lot Ice Rink)
-Ruby Fuller
This ice skating rink is not only a great place to spend a day ice skating, but also has many programs organized by the Carbondale Recreation and Community Center, including a beginners ice hockey, or even adult broomball. It’s a great place to grab some hockey sticks and have a great day with your friends.
March Horoscopes
-Tyler Gruel
Aquarius - January 20 - February 18 This month you will be reminded that locking your doors at night will make you no safer than leaving them unlocked but hey it’s the thought that counts right? Pisces - February 19 - March 20 You win some, you lose some, you lie, cheat, and swindle some, you vanish on a crisp winter’s day never to be seen again. Aries - March 21 - April 19 Sticks and stones can break your bones but venom from the Japanese giant hornet can dissolve human flesh. Do not think to long on this Aries after all you aren’t a nest egg, are you? Taurus - April 20 - May 20 While you may feel like the loneliest creature on this planet at times unfortunately you cannot claim that title, yet. Gemini - May 21 - June 21 Ignore that grain of salt nonsense and use what we all learned in standard child existential survival education. Take this month with a grain of sand from an infinitely shifting beach warring against the towering waves of time and change Cancer - June 22 - July 22 All that glitters is not gold, in fact most of it is definitely not gold. A lot of it could be reflections of glinting light reminding us of glossed over childhood memories. Be wary of any shiny objects you see this month. Leo - July 23 - August 22 Look to the dirt and find the answers you seek. Will it answer? Only time will tell.
Photo Courtesy of Lucia Penzel and Gracie Palomino
How to get there: About a mile east of Carbondale, it’s located on County Road 100 What to do: Head to CRCC (Carbondale Recreation and Community Center) if you need to rent some skates, then invite all your friends for an exciting day at the ice rink. You could even bring some hot cocoa on the go! Words to the wise: With the lack of snow, make sure the ice is actually frozen solid and able to withstand weight. Sadly, it hasn’t been in the best condition as compared to previous years. Reviews from our students: “I like to go ice skating there with my friends. It’s definitely a good time.” - Lucia Penzel
Virgo - August 23 - September 22 The stars wish to tell you that you are dazzling and terrifying, and that those words are not as removed from one another as you may think. Libra - September 23 - October 22 Melting glaciers and icebergs make a distinctive fizzing noise known as “bergy seltzer”. This is not dissimilar to the sound of someone’s world crashing down around them. Maybe get your hearing checked this month, Libra, better safe than sorry. Scorpio - October 23 - November 21 Understanding builds bridges, suffering grows gardens, antipathy sets both on fire for shits and giggles. Sagittarius - November 22 - December 21 Take time to think about that you could have been anyone, operating this body. The good news it that you won, congratulations! The bad news is that you’re stuck with it. Capricorn - December 22 - January 19 In the same way that you cannot wrestle apologies from people you cannot take them from the world, the sun and the sea have no comforting words for you. But by god are you going to try either way.
Heard in the Hallways “Can you put me in the paper, I need the attention” -Patrick Robinson “What kind of high schooler doesn’t always carry around a granola bar with them.”
“I’m just now doing all the scholarship stuff and it was due yesterday, so thats how im doing” “There is an equivalent amount of yogut drinks as there is fancy wine” “I don’t under-get it”
8 Rampage March 2018
Rampage Staff Editors in Chief Iliana Castillon Kloe Lee
Editorial Staff Feature Editor Chelsey Serrano News Editor Lilly Peery Focus Editor Ruby Fuller Daniela Rivera Sports Editor Ralph Good Frankie Harrington Entertainment Editor Tyler Gruel Copy Editors Hannah Bingaman Tyler Gruel Lilly Peery
Journalists Tomas Bensch Ruthie Brown Daniel Cortes Josie Sanchez Colin Shapard Peyton Sherman Lucy Meade
Policy Statement: Published 7 times a year, the student newspaper of Roaring Fork High School is a public forum, with its students editorial board making all decisions concerning its content. Unsigned editorials express the views of the majority of the editorial board.