Dec 2011 by The Rock

What is Our Future Worth? p. 12

Math teacher Tyler Munro has 200 students in his schedule when the current limit is 180. Next year the ceiling for students will go from 180 to 200 students. “It’s kind of like the 101 Dalmations; I’m sure they would like to get rid of a few of the puppies, but they’re all so cute and furry that you wouldn’t know who to choose,” Munro said.

The Last Game You’ll Ever Play

The Rock Holiday Special Edition

Relationships are like Math

[12/09/11]

theimage

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thenews

Margins Magazine Opens Submissions Margins literary magazine opened submissions for student work recently. The magazine debuted last year, and is advised by Ms. Moore. It features work created by students, such as stories, poetry, and artwork. Students are encouraged to submit work to submission boxes located around the school. Submission boxes are indicated by large arrows on the front of the box outside rooms 3800, 3500, and the library. “It’s a good way for people to showcase their artistic talent and it’s fun to see the tal-

ent in the people you didn’t expect,” Lauren Williams ‘12, copy editor, said. Submissions will be reviewed and compiled into a magazine to be released at the end of the year. If there is enough interest, an audio version of the magazine will be created as well, with music created by students. It is hoped that the magazine will represent the creativity of the student body, as well as that of staff members that wish to submit their work to the magazine as well. Submissions can be made online at bit.ly/rchsmargins. [charliemelbye]

Orchestra

All-State Member

Ryan McGavin ‘12, a bassist in the Chamber Orchestra, has made Colorado All-State Orchestra for three consecutive years, an accomplishment never before achieved by a Rock Canyon student. McGavin participated in the Continental League Honors Orchestra for four consecutive years, the last three of which he has been the principal bassist, and received 2nd chair in the Western States Honors Orchestra at UNC Greeley. While in Greeley, he was invited to play in a masters class by Jeffrey Turner, the principal bassist of the Pittsburgh Symphony. “I was glad to finally make Western States and to have been invited to the master’s class as a senior,” McGavin said. “And I feel as though all of my other accomplishments have prepared me well for collegelevel playing and will continue to benefit me in the future.” [seanmcgavin]

The Voices of RC

to make the choir,” Quinn Kennedy ‘13 said. “I’m really excited for the concert, it’s going to be really fun.” They have already made it past the first The All-State Jazz Choir singers, Aubrey audition and callbacks, and have recently Eggett, Quinn Kennedy, and Camille Prusse, found out that they made it. At Rock have about two months until their performance Canyon, seven students have made Allon January 28. They will be performing five State Classical Choir and three have been different pieces of music that they must learn by accepted into the All-State Jazz Choir. In themselves. Douglas County, we are the only school The All-State Classical Choir has seven of to have students be accepted into the Jazz Rock Canyon’s singers: Aubrey Eggett, Quinn Choir and we had the largest amount of Kennedy, Camille Prusse, Nicole McDaniel, student singers accepted in the Classical Aubrey Purdy, Matt Hopkins, and Ashley Choir. Kisner. This choir will have a concert at the “We had to send a recording for the beginning of February in Downtown Denver. first audition, then get a call back in order [nikkinewman]

Speech Team Sees Success

Speech and Debate’s first Varsity tournament turned out to be a time of learning for newer competitors and success for the more experienced members of Rock Canyon’s Forensics club. The Nov. 18-19 tournament was a two-day, grueling competition. Rock Canyon’s Public Forum team of cocaptain Srish Sharma ’13 and Andrew Charap ‘12 took home awards after being undefeated throughout the day. Additionally, Joey Wainwright ‘14 won an award in Congress. “The first varsity tournament of the year is

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always a trying-ground for newbies and a time for rusty members to get back into the swing of it. Compared to past years, I’m really satisfied with how Rock Canyon competed today,” Sharma ‘12 said. Nov. 30 JoAnn Moran took 14 speech team kids to a congress at Cherry Creek High School. After tough competiton, Mia Mettais ‘15 took 2nd place in her house, Sam Molotoriss took 3rd place in his house, and Ryan Landrum ‘13 won 3rd place in his house. [andrewcharap]

Journalists Attend National Convention Eleven student journalists from RC attended the JEA/NSPA Fall National High School Journalism Convention in Minneapolis, Minnesota Nov. 17 through Nov. 20. Staff members from The Rock, Black & Gold, and RCTV braved the cold weather and attended sessions all weekend to learn from advisers all over the country. “It was a really productive conference. I found the sessions to be informative, and everyone that went will be able to take home something to improve the Yearbook,” Karly Hanson ’12, co-editor-in-chief of Black & Gold, said. At the end of the convention, awards were given to top publications from schools that were present at the convention, with categories for broadcasts, newspapers, newsmagazines, and yearbooks. Attendees from Rock Canyon were excited to hear when Black & Gold won 6th Best in Show for last year’s book, and The Rock won 10th Best in Show for last month’s issue, out

of approximately 400 schools attending the convention. “It was really exciting that our book did so well! It was a pleasant surprise to see that it won an award,” said Hanson. [charliemelbye]

[robrathbun]

RC students pose in front of the Christmas tree at Mall of America in Minneapolis.

Spanish Honor Society Adopting a Child Spanish National Honor Society is “adopting” a child this year from a Spanish-speaking country. “I decided to do it because I thought it would be a good project for the society to do, and I was hoping that it would start a tradition, where Rock Canyon sponsors a child every year,” Abby Baroffio ’12 said. The organization is called "Friends of the Orphans" and it assigns an orphan of a Spanish-speaking country in Latin America to you. The money that will be raised and sent benefits

the child with clean water, food, clothes and school supplies! “I think it’s pretty neat because we get to help someone out and we’ll be receiving letters from the child we adopt (in Spanish) so we will get to practice our Spanish reading skills as well!” Sydney Powell ‘13, a SNHS member, said. Anyone interested in donating to the society for Sponsor A Child, can contact Margaret Motz or Abby Baroffio at Margaret. mozt@dcsdk12.org. [natalieholtaus]

Leadership Students Make a Difference in More Ways Than One for Their Final Projects The final project for the team of Jonah Flores ‘13, Joshua Smith ‘14 and Megan Sheffield ‘14 in their leadership class was to come up with a project that would bring the school together and make a difference for someone else. As a group, they chose to include the students of RC to help make holiday cards for the troops overseas. “I think that when the soldiers receive the cards, it will show that people haven’t forgotten them and that they are still being appreciated Hopefully this will keep them going.” Joshua Smith ‘14 said. Their goal was to have 50 made to send over seas. Not only did they succeed their goal of 50 but over the course of 2 weeks they have been able to collect over 70 cards. On the weekend of December 3 the group delivered the cards to a Salvation Army drop off, hoping that they will make [laurenscheirman] an inspiring difference to whoever receives them. [maerohrbach] Courtney Scott‘13 writes her letter to the troops at lunch the week before they were sent.

[laurenscheirman]

Nickie Miller‘14 and Michelle Romano‘14 collect donations for Children’s Hospital at lunch Nov. 29.

Kate Hartline’s leadership class was given a challenge: to do a project that helped people in need. “The project was to put the skills they learned during the semester into practice. They got to choose their projects based on what they were interested in.” Hartline said. Nickie Miller ‘14, Zach Anderson ’12 Lauren Yacks ‘14 and Evan Noyes ‘14, choose to do a charity drive. “We wanted to give the children at the children’s hospital a comfortable place while they are sick,”Miller said. The toy drive started November 29th and ended two days ago. “It’s was not as successful as we had hoped it would be, but its went pretty well. The student body has been very generous in there giving of money and toys,” Miller said. [laurenscheirman]

[12/09/11]

thenews

The Hometown Remedy

The Boy Next Door

Junior Prent Haworth starred in a Metro Broker’s Real Estate TV Sophomore Jake Garrett released a 4-song album on iTunes entitled commercial this past summer. To see this commercial visit the Rock’s “The Hometown Remedy”. To hear his songs visit the Rock website website at rockmediaonline.org at rockmediaonline.org Imagine every parent’s worst nightmare: a devilishly good-looking teenage boy moving in across the street from their sweet, innocent teenage daughter. This is the story line of the commercial filmed over this past summer for the Colorado based real estate company Metro Brokers starring Rock Canyon student Prent Haworth ‘13. “I got the part when Maximum Talent (my modeling agency) called me and asked if I wanted to do a commercial. At the time I didn’t know who it was for, but, I thought it would be fun to try acting, so I said yes. I got to see what it was like to make a real

commercial and what gets put into the final product,” Haworth said. The commercial is titled “Love at First Sight”, and in it Haworth plays the love interest to the girl across the street who causes her parents to decide to move, for fear of this newfound attraction. “I just love how everyone has seen it or heard about this commercial. I think it’s funny when I’m walking down the hall I’ll be stopped and be told that the commercial was great or that they loved it and thought it was funny,” Haworth said. [cambelwinkler]

Eco Club Making a Difference

Rock Canyon students and close friends Colby Cameron, Tristan Sagar, and Eli Fuchsman. “It was a good experience and we became best friends through it,” Cameron ‘13 said. By the time the band had broken up, Garrett had already started teaching himself some acoustic guitar. “That was when I discovered that I didn’t need anyone else to create something I enjoyed and started writing my own acoustic music,” he said. Garrett’s passion for acoustic music can be seen in his songs. “I love acoustic music because it’s so simple yet it has the most meaning and most emotion over me personally,” Garrett said. It is this genre that has driven him to success. “I am really starting to get into studio recording as well as recording two songs,” Garrett said. “I hope that I will be good enough to help myself up on my feet and build a better foundation for myself.” [meganboyles]

Theater

New to the club roster, Eco club, started by a few of Geoffrey Brinker’s last years’ APES students have already changed the school. The Eco club has raised over $2,000 through grants and reduced the schools energy use by 15%. With the money that has been raised, Eco Club members remove lightbulbs in the 9000’s pod to reduce energy use. the Eco club has decided to put it towards motion detector lights in some of the bathrooms. The Eco club is also working on alternative energy sources for the school. “We already have solar panels and recycling bins, so something along those lines would be nice to follow,” Jenny Tran, Eco club president, said. A few of the Eco club members have already gotten together after school to take down every third light in each of the pods. This will further decrease the amount of electricity used by the school. Eco club is still taking new members. If interested, stop by room 9200 any Tuesday after school. [maerohrbach]

With so many aspiring musicians among us, Jake Garrett ‘14 has already begun chasing his goals. Writing songs and strumming on his guitar has led this musician and singer to release an album on iTunes called The Hometown Remedy April 6, 2010 including the songs “Shed Your Tears”, “I’ll Take You Home”, “Heartbreaker”, and “Capsized by a Crush”. “It is amazing that I have something up for people to listen to,” Garrett said, “It was my dream since I was a kid to be on the same level with the people I used to admire and it’s amazing how much my perspective has changed watching my heroes turn human in front of me.” Garrett started playing guitar at age six and since then has learned to play the piano, drums, and bass. “My favorite instrument is guitar because it is the instrument that is included in all types of music,” Garrett said. “Happy or sad, up-beat or slow, love or hate, it can always portray the mood a person is feeling.” He joined a hard core band called “One Way to Rick” in the seventh grade with fellow

[maerohrbach]

Behind the Curtain

What goes on behind the curtain before a theater production might be considered random, superstitious, and maybe a little strange. Vocal warm ups which include things like “One we call betty boughter and another we call to sit in solemn silence.” “We collect sayings over the years,” Drama club treasurer, Syd Charvat ‘13 said, “We have some warm-ups that we’ve kept from a few years ago...We also add new ones, this year we added one called, ‘everyone stare at Nate dissapointedly.’” The warm up ends with a circle of “Keep yours” sayings. These are phrases that begin with the phrase “Keep your...” and range from “Keep your hair big” to “Keep your oomph in the da.” In addition, Friday night shows are always followed by a trip to Red Robin, and Saturday night (after staying until at least 11 p.m. to take down the set) the cast and crew go to IHOP. “It’s always super fun to get together after a performance and share our experiences

photos compliments of [angelicadefranco]

on stage and off stage,” Aimee Schnebeck ‘13, Drama Club secretary, said. “The after play dinners are one of my favorite parts of drama club.” [erinsnyder]

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4 Things You Need to Know About Cheer

1 2

The important number in the cheerleaders team motto. “One team as One.” The amount of coaches for the each team (Varsity and JV ).Varsity: AmandaWinston and Kimmie Marcum. JV: Summer James and Carol Ann Grater.

3 4

The amount of major injuries this year. Paige Parrottino‘15 with a broken nose , Clara Goodman‘14 with a dislocated elbow, and Rachel Branson‘12 with a split temple. The amount ofVarsity Captains. Kelsey Karst‘12, Lily Sumners‘12, Abby Baroffio‘12, Madelyn Falk‘12.

Season Highlights :

Varsity and JuinorVarsity Camp Champs UCA Camp Two-time Super-LargeVarsity Regional Champions UCA Large JuniorVarsity Regionals Champions UCA LargeVarsity Regional Champions NCA Large JuniorVarsity Champions NCA JuniorVarsity Continential Leagues Champions JuniorVarsity Invitational Champions

Photo by [chrissafran] The varsity cheer team coming together at the end of Continental Leagues, shouting “One team as one.”

End of the Road

Varsity boys soccer playing againt the Regis Jesuit Raiders Nov 3. The Jaguars won 2-1.

The boys of the Varsity Soccer team proved their talent during the 2011 playoffs placing 3rd in state, losing to the East High School Angels in the semi-finals

One cross. One header. One goal. That’s all it took to end the Rock Canyon soccer team’s hope for 5A state championship glory the boys played their last playoff game in the semifinals of the state tournament against the Denver East Angels, Nov. 5. John Merenstien, the Angel’s defender, finished the ball past Blake Foley off a cross in the 70th minute of regulation. “I was super bummed, but in the past we’d had better second halves anyway, so I hoping the boys would pull through to at least tie it up,” avid fan Casey Burgeron ’13 said. Rock Canyon had a golden opportunity with seven minutes to play when junior center midfielder, David Boldt, had a ripper of a shot from 6 yards out, only to be brushed out by the Angels’ keeper, Marques McDonald. At the final whistle, the game ended with the Angels 1, Jaguars 0. “I think we did everything we could’ve done to win. We were mentally and physically prepared and while we wanted it more, we just couldn’t get a goal,” substitute outside midfielder, Lucas Larsson ’15 said. “They are a great team, and

deserve to be in the final,” Rock Canyon head coach, Sean Henning said. “I’m very proud of my team and what they accomplished this season.” That’s how the playoffs ended, here’s how they started; the Jaguars ended their season with a record of 7-2-2 in 5A continental league. With that record, they were a shoe-in for playoffs, and were seeded number 15 going into the state tournament. Ralston Valley: Oct. 25 The Jaguars debuted their playoff spectacular hosting Ralston Valley, seeded number 17 at Shea Stadium, Oct. 25. The stage was set for an exciting game; the rain was pouring, the wind was blowing and to top it off, it was a bitter cold October night. 0-0 at half, the jaguars were able to

come out hard the second half, and put a beautiful shot over the keeper to win the game, 1-0. “We knew we were going to move on,” Preston Migaki ’14 said, “and when we scored it symbolized the hopes we had for playoffs. Ralston Valley started it all.” Fairview: Oct. 28 The Jaguars were hot off a spectacular game against the Ralston Valley Mustangs, and on their way to Boulder to play Fairview High School, Oct. 28.Fairview was seeded number 3. A traffic jam on the way to the game left the boys stuck on the team bus for three hours before they were able to arrive at the stadium. Odds were against them, when the game started an hour and twenty minutes late. The game was tied at the end of regulation, and penalty kicks would

decide the game. In the end, the Jaguars proved themselves to be the better team, and won the shoot out 6-5. Oliver Larsson scored the winning penalty kick. “It was the most amazing feeling,” Larsson ’15 said, “because all the nerves I had going up, disappeared when I saw it go in.” Regis: Nov. 3 In the third round of playoffs, the boys were set to play the Regis Jesuit Raiders, seeded number 10. When the boys arrived, the field was covered in snow, and an hour after the original start time, the game began. The night was cold, but the faithful Rock Canyon fans filled the visitor stands to watch our boys prevail over the Raiders, and move onto the semifinals by a score of 2-1. “The entire bench was psyched, it was a great feeling,” back up keeper Samuel Makkikali said. “As the clock counted down we knew we were going to win [the game].” Even though they didn’t win the tournament in the end, this stellar playoff season gave the Jaguars a bright outlook for next year. [jeremypurchase]

[12/09/11]

thegame

Boys Basketball Last year’s record: 10-4 Next home game: Wednesday Jan. 4 @7:00 p.m. versus Rampart High School Rival Game: 1/13 @7:00 p.m. versus Mountain Vista

“We are going to be a team. This is the most unselfish team I’ve ever coached,” Head Coach Jim McClurg said.

Wrestling

Poms

Last year’s record: 0-8

Last year’s record: 8 in the state championships

First dual: Thursday 1/12 @ 7:00 p.m. versus Douglas County

Next competition: 5A state championships, Friday12/09 @ the Denver Coliseum

Rival Dual: 1/26 @ 7:00 p.m. versus Castleview

“There are some doubts about the season, teamwise,” Richard Davis ‘14 said, “but I think there are individuals who will do well and qualify for state.” Eli Fuchman ‘12

“Our season so far has been really good, we got first at regionals and feel pretty confident for state this friday! [Dec. 9] We are hoping to make finals and show our school how good our poms team really is,” Kate Reisig said.

Ben Finnerty ‘12 Kate Reisig 12’ photo by: [sarahrosenkrans]

photo by: [cececastro]

Will Stopps ‘12

Winter Sports Outlook Girls Diving Placement at state last year: 8 Next home meet: 12/13 versus Heritage @ 4:00 p.m. at Northridge recreation Center Rival meet: Heritage

“As a team, we’re best at supporting one another,” Nickie Miller ‘14 said, “even if someone does a dive wrong or messes up, we always cheer each other on.”

6 sports to watch indoors this chilly season

Girls Swimming Placement at state last year: 8th Next home meet: 12/13 versus Heritage @4:00 p.m. at Norhtridge Recreation Center Rival meet: Heritage

Girls Basketball Last year’s record: 16-9-0 Next home game: Wednesday 12/14 versus Greeley West @ 7:00 p.m. Rival Game: 1/27 versus Highlands Ranch @ 7:00 p.m.

“Our greatest strength is our ability to support each other,” Mackenzie Reed ‘14 said, “no matter how we do, we are always there for each other.”

“I think its going to be a great season, because we have lots of potential and talent to win many games,” said co-captain Erin McClaire. Erin McClaire ‘14

Lindi Riley ‘13 photo by: [sarahrosenkrans]

photo by: [alexpedrinan]

photo by: [sarahrosenkrans]

photo by: [jeremypurchase]

thegame

Teach Me How To Tebow Always electrifying, Tim Tebow prays on one knee before every game. This has led to a new national trend, know simply as “Tebowing”

April 22, 2010. The day that would change the landscape of Colorado sports forever. It wasn’t a Rockies win, and it wasn’t a Nuggets playoff birth. It was the day the Broncos drafted Tim Tebow from the University of Florida. When The Broncos made the bold step to draft Tebow with the 22nd pick, Denver became the center of Tebow-nation. After the eternity-long quarterback saga, Tebow emerged as the Broncos’ starting quarterback. Now, before every game, he kneels to pray on the sideline with his right elbow resting on his right knee. What most would call just simple praying, is a now a craze sweeping the nation. It’s the art of Tebowing.

Follow these steps to Tebow like a pro:

1 2 3 4

Start by standing up straight; posture is key to the Tebow. Proceed to go down on one knee, assuming a 70 degree angle wih the right leg.

Time to get serious. Place your right elbow on your thigh, raise your forearm to the Tebow heavens, and make a 74 degree angle. (Not 73, and not 75. You don’t want to upset the Tebow Gods). Lower the head and rest it on the fist of the right. At this stage, the full Tebow powers are entering your body. You will now have the power to win a Heisman, and complete two passes in an entire game, (and win).

You have now completed the Tebow. Have fun with the excessive celebration penalty. And if you don’t choose to do the Tebow in sports, may Tim Tebow be with you. Amen. [andrewbohren]

NBA: Nothin’But Arrogance Opening night. November 2011. A man sits at home with a mascot head on his left and a bowl of Cheetos on his right. He watches Sports-Center’s Tim Legler discuss the current NBA lockout and tears up. This man is Rocky, the Denver Nuggets mascot. Sadly, this was the case for twenty-nine other mascots and teams across America due to the then inevitable NBA lockout. This lockout was a classic case of millionaires vs. billionaires, but this time, nobody came out a winner. While the owners and players eventually saved their wallets and ended their feud and the lockout on December 6, the damage has already been done. Many fans have now been turned off by the owner’s and player’s selfish ways, and this lockout is doomed to repeat itself when the current collective bargaining agreement expires in 2017. The problem for the league now, is that the NBA needs to adapt and it hasn’t shown any signs of wanting to. The NBA over the past decade has done the opposite of what they should have been doing all along. Instead of saving money they have given out ludicrous contracts. Instead of emphasizing social media, they have banned players from tweeting during games, and instead of emphasizing television contracts, they have continuously built bigger and more expensive arenas. This all culminated in the NBA losing over $300 million last year according to the NBA and its owners. To the die-hard basketball fan, these problems are deeply upsetting for the league that they love so much. However to the average fan,

they don’t mind because they have the NFL and college football and college basketball to keep them entertained. The television ratings and attendance figures reflect this. Over the past five years, the average Nielsen Television rating for the NBA Finals was a terrible 8.78. When this is compared to the Super Bowl’s average of nearly 44, it’s clear that the NBA needs to change its ways and appeal to the average fan immediately. During past lockouts such as in 1999 the NBA could get away with its own shortcomings as a league because people could not wait for the NBA to come back. They needed to be able to watch stars such as Shaquille O’Neal and Michael Jordan. They missed watching the games on television, and attending five to ten games a year. It’s not 1999 anymore. Now, it is just as enjoyable to sit at home, watch the game on a 50 inch HDTV with instant replay, and surf the web on a laptop, than it is to go to an NBA game. Also, it is roughly $100 cheaper. So, “What is the future of the National Basketball Association?”. The answer is fairly simple. The NBA isn’t the premiere sports league in the United States anymore and it has to get used to that. The league needs to do the same thing that the NHL did after their 2004-2005 lockout. Enforce a salary cap, lower ticket prices, and make some entertaining rule changes. This wouldn’t just improve the league’s

07 [12/09/11]

bottom line, but it would make the game a way more enjoyable experience for the fan. These things are an absolute necessity in order for the NBA to stay relevant in the public eye. Otherwise, the NBA will be struggling and mired in mediocrity forever.

“With every day that goes by, there will be further reductions on what’s left of the season.” -David Stern, NBA Comissioner “Obviously we’d have a deal done if the right flexibility was being shown [by owners] ... The fact that we don’t have a deal obviously lets you know that there’s still a lot of work to be done on the system.” -Derek Fisher, Lakers Point Guard and current NBPA player representative [michaelshapiro]

TEBOW

LOVERS (Start here)

“I am his future wife and he is amazing.” -Rema Maaliki ‘12

“It’s hard not to like Tebow because he has the best work ethic on the field and he gives it his all.” -Jack Becker ‘12

“I like Tim Tebow because he is just a winner. All the man does is win.” - Logan Draper ‘15

Love, Hate, & Winning Finally, the most talked about man in pro football plays on the Broncos, but the attention he’s receiving tends to play both sides of the fence. Tebow lovers and haters alike, this one is for you

LOVE HIM

HATERS (Start here)

HATE HIM

e’s not ready Hformer yet. The Heis-

e is it. The one; the almighty Tebow. His unconventional playing skills fade in comparison to his productivity. Compared to any NFL QB, he is most similar to none of them. 3-0 in the division, 6-1 overall as a starter; he’s still undefeated when taking the Broncos on the road. He’s as effective as a tight-end lined up in the Wildcat offense; plowing over the cockiest of all defensive backs and leading both himself and the Broncos into the Promised Land. In the 4th quarter, there’s no other QB that I’d want on my team.

TEBOW

man winner should’ve spent some time in throwing camp before jumping to the NFL. He can’t throw into the ocean off of a cruise ship; defenses predict his play calls before they get off the bus; and his wide receivers are like extra kids cast in a play that stand in the back and hold props. His game is unorthodox and looks juvenile compared to the best in his business. He has been lucky; he has yet to be tested. Keep waiting Broncos fans, your Elway reincarnation has not ar-

REGARDLESS

he road to improvement isn’t easy, and in an unforgiving town of fans stuck in the glory days of #7, the first year QB from Florida finds himself in quite the quandary. Love him, hate him; regardless of your opinion on #15 - and trust me, everyone has one--you can’t deny the fact that he wins. No matter how unorthodox, how unconventional and at most times in the game. damn-straight unbelievable, the Broncos come out on top.

“He is more of a celebrity than a quarterback.” -Danny Costello ‘14

“Tim Tebow runs off of luck... He is all luck and no talent.” -Austin Shoemake ‘12

“If he can learn to throw the football, he could be really good, but for now I’m not too impressed.” - Connor Draper ‘12

[chrissafran]

[12/09/11]

The Strike Zone

thegame

Behold: The Strike Zone; analyzing who’s hot and who’s not in sports at Rock Canyon and from around the nation. Perform well and you may just find yourself inside the confines of cool.

Rock Canyon Varsity Football has never won a playoff game

Way Outside. Both for the sexual crimes and for firing the winningest coach in College Football history

Principal Abner and VP Brieske have attended more events than past admin. CU wins a Road Football game for the first time since iPods came out

OUTSIDE

Brett Favre says he’s open to leaving an assured career at Walmart to go play for the QB-less Bears

Tebow wins games, debate over

Girls Varsity Basketball outscored all 3 opponents 179 -101 in sweeping last weekends tournament JV Cheer and Poms teams kicked butt at state last weekend, with both of them taking 1st

0-12. One player doesnt make a team, right?

Corporate greed and eogtism finally prevailed for the NBA

LOW [chrissafran] Photos by [alexpedrinan] [jeremypurchase] [juliahenning]

Valor recruits? CHSAA: *Slap on the wrist* “Bad Valor, bad!”

thegame

09 [12/09/11]

The Last Game You’ll Ever Play Seniors come to grips with putting on the pads for the final time

here’s always a degree of uncertainty in sports. An unknown; an unparalleled existence of variability. The only constant in sports, besides winning and losing, is the fact that, at some point, the game must end. When? Well that’s just it, no one can know for sure. A hallowed career can last years, hours, minutes...even seconds. From the thousands of plays that shape history to the single plays that define a player’s career, it can all end in a heartbeat; in the blink of an eye. From the moment these players’ cleats first made contact with the field, they knew some day it would all come to and end. With the increasing difficulty of making it big in college sports (and even more so beyond that), the outcome of an athlete’s career being limited to only four years in high school is all the more realistic. As winter 2011 dawned upon Rock Canyon, most athletes had to come to grips with the fact that it was the end of the road, and the clock read :00 on the last game they’d ever play. The saying “Leave it all on the field” is cliche - but when you really think about it, you realize everything you’re actually leaving: up to four years of effort, hard work, blood, sweat and tears devoted to the common goal of victory. What’s an after school activity to some, is a way of life for others, and one of the most challenging acceptances of a senior year is leaving it all in the past. “It’s rough to know that it’s really over; the season went by very fast,” starting quarterback Chris Sauer ’12 said.

SENIOR

STATISTICS CHRIS SAUER: QB #12

2,082yds

Quarterback Chris Sauer looks on from the sidelines in frustration. The Jaguars lost to Pine Creek in the first round 4A Playoff at District 20 Satidum, 41-0. The slinging southpaw led Rock Canyon football to one of it’s most prolific passing seasons in history, throwing for a career high 2,082 yards in just 11 games, finding the end zone 20 times. Sauer had experienced support on both sides of the ball, and the bitter sting of the loss was felt by all seniors that cold night at District 20 Stadium in Colorado Springs. “Once we were down, the seconds seemed to tick by faster and faster; I knew it meant a huge part of my life was coming to an end,” AJ Cocetti ’12 said. For some, the end of the road marked the finale of a long, hard-fought season, while for others, the finale came all too soon. “I’ve played football since 4th grade - it always seemed like senior year was so far away,” wide receiver Jacob Cohn ’12 said. Cohn suffered a torn right MCL after being tack-

led by a Castle View defender with only four games left in the season. “I was very disappointed my injury kept me out of the action for half of my last year...I wish I had the opportunity to play just one more game.” Unfortunately, in a season shortened by a disappointing first round loss, that “one more game” eluded the Jaguars, and the seniors will be left to reflect on what could’ve been in their final 60 minutes on the turf. It’s never easy to accept the end, but the seniors aren’t dwelling on the loss. “It was a great experience to compete with the team. I’m going to miss the brotherhood,” Sauer ‘12 said. The lingering question of “what if” will plague the memories of seniors for some time - a true testament to the importance of truly leaving it all on the field.

“It was sad. I didn’t expect I

was going to be that beaten up about it. Taking off the pads for the last time...it didnt feel real.” Dale McMillan ‘12

[chrissafran]

BRADY MCNEILY: WR #26

6TD’s

AUSTIN SUTTON: WR #20

12.6yd/catch

The Jaguars meet at midfield following the game against Pine Creek for a final word on the season from Head Coach Tom Lynch.

photos by [juliahenning]

[12/09/11]

theimage

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thenews

Another Trip to the Emergency Room... Taylor Woods

11 [12/09/11]

Abigail Fuselier

Taylor Woods ‘12 is a regular hospital patient who can’t find a solution to her consistent migraines

At the beginning of her senior year, Abigial Fuselier discovered a life-threatening blood clot in her arm

In late August, Taylor Woods ‘12 was hospitalized for a severe migraine. “I’ve been in the hospital twice this year, once for two weeks and the other for one. They were both for the migraines I get,” Woods said. The doctors performed a lumbar puncture, or a spinal tap, to test for meningitis, and through doing that, spinal fluid was leaked to her brain. “When they did that, it caused a headache that didn’t go away for two weeks. They kept doing procedures that weren’t working until they did another spinal tap which worked,” Woods said. “I’ve gotten migraines since I was little, and I’ve never known the cause.” Toward the end of October, her migraines came back and she stayed in the hospital for another week. “They can never find the source of the problems so I just have to stay in the hospital until my headaches go away,” Woods said.

Senior year is supposed to be the best year of high school, but for Abigail Fuselier ’12 it hasn’t been that simple. With three visits to the hospital, four minor surgeries and one major surgery; senior year has been a challenge. Fuselier has been in and out of the hospital since Aug. 21, when her mother took her in for a swollen arm. “We thought it was just a mosquito bite because I’m allergic, so we thought it was no big deal,” Fuselier said. The doctors did an ultrasound and then pulled her mother into a different room, where they informed her that Abigail has a life-threatening clot. The clot was the result of Thoracic outlet syndrome, an inherited disorder where the rib and collarbone clamp down on one of the main veins and cause blood to clot in that area. To remove the clots, Fuselier had Angioplastis. “They put a tube with a balloon on it and then blew it up in my vein, hoping it would open up the vein and let the blood flow through,” Fuselier said. “It seemed like she was getting better, and then she would start to re-clot or she would get an infection,” said Collin Pullara Fuselier’s boyfriend. Most recently Fuselier underwent a surgery to remove the rib behind her collar bone to relieve the pressure on her vein. “I’m really glad I got it over with, because after I recover I can hopefully move on and live my life, and move past this bump in the road.”

[seanmcgavin]

Audie Ryburn

Despite a tragic accident, Audie Ryburn ‘13 finds the strength to continue biking

You haven’t seen love for a sport until you’ve sat next to Audie Ryburn in advisement. While Dr. Schuler lectures us about the importance of scholarships, Ryburn sits at the computer and looks up every mountain bike race you could ever think of. He’ll completely ignore any questions you ask him that don’t involve biking, but occasionally he’ll make a comment like “Oh that kid is such a beast” or “God, Nationals are gunna be so nice this year I can’t wait.” At the third race of the reason in Elbert, Colorado, Ryburn was thrown from his bike when he collided with an opponent trying to transfer from two trails to one. The first thing he thought of after the accident: “I’m not going to be able to ride with my brother, Clancy, in Durango next week.” “It actually didn’t hurt right away,” said Ryburn. “I finally understood how hurt I was when I actually saw my shoulder in the emergency tent.” His shoulder has swollen up to almost three times its normal size; the doctor said he was extremely lucky the bone didn’t puncture the skin. It was then that Ryburn came to the realization that he would be out of biking for a while. “I was so upset. I had been looking forward to the season for so long.” A trip to the emergency room told the Ryburns that Audie needed immediate surgery; his collarbone had been completely shattered. Two days later, Ryburn’s collarbone was reconstructed with a plate and six screws. He also has a five-inch scar that stretches across his shoulder. Physical therapy starts about three to four weeks after the surgery. “I’m definitely going to be racing again soon,” Ryburn said, despite the doctor’s orders to stay away from bikes for at least a month. “I probably shouldn’t go against what he says but I just can’t help myself,” he admits, “I love biking. I just love setting goals for myself and then being able to achieve them. This definitely won’t be any kind of set-back for me.” Audie plans to attend Fort Lewis College on a mountain biking scholarship. “All I have to do is work hard, and for me, that’s easy because it’s for something that I love.” No matter what obstacles get in his way, Audie will always find a way to get back on the bike. [virginiavaughan]

[laurenschierman]

[12/09/11]

thenews

MONEY.

Low voter turnout and the election outcomes proved one thing: funding education was not a priority for the taxpayers of Douglas Co. and Colorado.

wo funding measures were local to the county, including Ballot Issue 3A and Ballot Issue 3B. These would have provided funds to Douglas County School District for both capital improvements as well as compensation for staff. The ballot issues would

Voters decided against passing three budget measures Nov. 1, 2011. How will this affect students in Douglas County?

have been funded through increases in mill levies, or the tax rate applied to the value of property in the county. At the state level, Proposition 103 proposed an increase in both sales tax and income tax, with all of the revenue allocated to education in the state. There has been much concern for this upcoming year’s budget. As a result, Douglas County School District will be in an even worse financial position than it was before. Along with reductions in state education funding, the failure to pass the funding measures will cause budget reductions at the district level that will take effect as early as 2012-2013. During a press conference Nov. 8, 2011 with superintendent Dr. Elizabeth Celania-Fagen, some

questions were answered but many are still up in the air. Douglas County School District sets a budget for the school year. It is then handed over to principals who work with staff to determine what they need to change or cut. “I have seen everything from schools that have decided to raise class sizes to others that wanted to make sure their class sizes were smaller. Those are the types of scenarios where class sizes are determined by supply and demand,” Fagen said. In a presentation made to staff by Principal Andy Abner, he explained how the financial situation will impact Rock Canyon High School. Specifically, it is estimated that nine teaching positions will be cut. In addition, per-student

spending will be reduced by approximately $400. However, these statistics aren’t certain yet. “We won’t know the exact amounts until February,” Abner said. “Furthermore, we won’t know which departments will lose teachers until we finish registration. Then, we’ll know which classes students want.” A solutions committee of teachers from all departments has been formed and meets biweekly. The committee will work with Abner to deal with issues that arise relating to cuts. Fagen believes that we must be “the most creative district. We want to be in the best position as a district for the return of a positive economy. Necessity is the mother of great invention.” [charliemelbye] additional reporting by [maerohrbach]

Budget By The Numbers

See how the reduced budget will affect you, your teachers, and the school

$89million

dollars cut from the state education budget by Governor Hickenlooper

$280,350

[charliemelbye]

$400

approx

less per student in funding

$7.57

/ month

average amount a household would pay if the bonds had passed

in yearly compensation for superintendent Dr. Elizabeth CelaniaFagen; she is highest compensated supt. in the Denver metro-area. Source: http://www.denverpost.com/news/ci_15347077

estimated teaching positions eliminated next year

days

furlough for teachers next year

thenews

13 [12/09/11]

Fact or Rumor?

We talked with Principal Andy Abner to set the record straight Performing and visual arts will be There will be an eight period cut, or at least sized down schedule next year RUMOR

“We have not talked about specific programs to cut. We won’t know until we go through the registration process in January. Then, we’ll have a better idea of where cuts will come from. It will probably be across the board, as a school.”

[laurenscheirman]

Valor Christian High School, less than a mile from Rock Canyon High School, sits off of Fairview Pkwy. With financial issues plaguing DCSD, some families may consider private school alternatives.

Public vs. Private

A quick comparison with our rivals down the road

ith budget woes plaguing DCSD, attending classes at Valor may look more appealing. Here are a few facts to consider. Tuition to attend Valor is $13,950 dollars per year. “I definitely think the tuition is worth it,” Holly VanDuren ‘12, ex-RC student and current Valor Eagle said. However, classes are kept small at Valor. Nick Zollener ’12 attended Valor his freshman year, and only had 15 students in his largest class. “It totally helps you when there are that few students in class. You get more one-on-one time; everyone has their questions answered by the time class is over,” Zollener said. VanDuren, a student who struggled in classes of 30-35 students at RC, agrees. “Teachers can answer in-depth. If one person doesn’t get it, then you can stop the class. The environment is also a lot easier to learn in because there are less distractions.” Valor’s campus cost over 90 million dollars to build. The campus includes a full Bistro Coffee shop, kitchen, and 5,300 sq ft. research and teaching library.

How does Douglas County’s per-pupil spending stack up? With the failure of bonds 3A & 3B and proposition 103, per-pupil spending will be reduced for 2012-2013. See how Douglas County’s spending compares with other districts in the area. [meganboyles]

What could you give up to pay for it? On average, each household would have paid $7.57 more in taxes a month if 3A & 3B passed. Here are items in that price range.

[alliecole]

“Our play and productions are like Broadway; we go full out,” VanDuren said. The school even rented out the old Circuit City by Park Meadows Mall, to use as rehearsal space for a play. According to their web site, Valor also has a private chef from Whole Foods. Lunches cost anywhere from $4-7. The average cost in Douglas County is $2.75. However, the grass isn’t always greener on the other side. At Valor, students can pay anywhere from $250-450 per season to play a sport. Douglas County students will only pay $150 for each sport that the student wants to participate in. Students at private schools do not receive the same rights as students attending public schools. Colorado is one of seven states that has a student free press law that protects students from being censored by administration or anyone else. However, as a private school, Valor doesn’t fall under that law. “Our adviser, Mrs. Bogart, looks to make sure you do what you’re supposed to because it is a private Christian school,” said Emily Buretz managing editor of Valor school newspaper True Blue. The school also charges class fees of $100-200, while the highest fee in Douglas County is $40. “The money is equally distributed between the departments, and then we have benefit gathering to raise more money. We are working on building an arts department building, so we recently had a benefit,” VanDuren said. [laurenscheirman]

CSAP Reading: 74.78%

$9,278

/ student

Cherry Creek Schools

$6,468

RUMOR

“There were several calendars that were proposed before the bond vote happened, and they’ll be presented to the board of education. None of them have anything to do with the financial situation of the district.”

Teachers will take a 5% pay cut to pay for performing arts RUMOR

“I haven’t heard that. Anything that is associated with salary or benefits must be negotiated. There are negotiations one Wednesday a month, which involves building-level administrators.”

All teachers will be let go and will need to reapply for their jobs RUMOR

“That is a rumor. I haven’t heard anything that would indicate that Douglas County School District’s going to do that. That’s not a building decision, that would be a human resources decision.”

CSAP Reading: 80.32%

$9,204

/ student

Boulder Valley School District

CSAP Reading: 80.22%

Fall break will be cut next year

/ student

Douglas County School District

CSAP Reading: 49.09%

$4,866

/ student

Denver Public Schools

FACT

“That’s one potential way to alleviate class sizes with downsizing of staff. Right now, teachers teach five out of seven classes. One potential solution is to have teachers teach six out of eight classes. That way, class sizes don’t get out of control.”

There will be at least 40 students in each class FACT

“There would be with our current schedule. We wouldn’t be able to support our current schedule with eight less teachers. Teachers can only teach 180 students total; that’s their maximum number. With the current schedule, teachers would be over that.”

Students will have to replace dropped classes with other classes in the same department FACT

“We currently do that for AP classes because staffing is decided by the number of students signed up for a class. Dropping is available, but students must either take another course within the department or take an off hour.”

School will be Monday through Thursday every week RUMOR

“That’s a rumor that we hear every time a budget measure fails. I have heard nothing from the district about that.” [maddiewhitten]

CSAP Reading: 75.34%

$7,900

/ student

Jeffco Public Schools

CSAP Reading: 46.59%

$4,365

/ student

Aurora Public Schools

$7.29

$10.50

$7.61

Pesto Cavatappi & Soda

Twilight Breaking Dawn Part 1

Two Entrée Plate and One Side

Noodles and Company

Movie Ticket

Panda Express

[12/09/11]

The Community Reacts “This is understandable for families who do not want to pay more taxes especially in these tough economic times. However, everyone needs to realize that educating the next generation is a priority. I think the bond not passing will mostly affect the middle road students who will slip through the cracks.” -Dane Burkeholder ‘14

S t ud

“I think it’s terrible that people don’t have the generosity to pay for pay for the future’s education.” Andy Tinlin ‘14

“It’s dumb. $45 a month is definitely nothing for most people in the country to get bent out of shape about. I feel like a lot of people who don’t have kids in the public school system would prefer their greed unfortunately.” -Sachin Mathus ‘13

“It’s grim. It’s difficult in every aspect. I’m not doing as much writing with my seniors as I need to be. It’s just impossible. Students don’t get the attention they need.” -Melissa Rosati English “My classes will definitely get bigger and my students will have less equipment available to them...my wife and I are both teachers, if one of us got fired we would be in big trouble.” -Jeff Seaquist Science “If we have furlough days it will hurt my family financially. Since both my husband and I work for the district we would get hit twice as hard. I have to have a second job ot help keep afloat, which means not being available as much for RC kids.” - Mandy Zimmerman Math

s t n

“Absolutely, yes I voted for the bonds. There are so many reasons, but most importantly, educating our children should be our first priority. They will always be our future.” -Heather Horton Mother of two DC students

“Our board needs to go. I did not vote for the first bond that was tied to Pay for Performance because no one can judge my performance. I absolutely voted for the ssecond on because we need building money. Teachers should not be paid on their performance. Whose going to judge them? It’s not a sales job. I’m not selling anything, I’m teaching. - Anyonymous

Vot

3A3

B 3 0 1

ers

“The main cause of this is because people were poorly educated. I have felt the impacts of cuts over the years and it will become even worse as class sizes get larger.” -Quentin Boose ‘14

The rejection of the 3A, 3B and 103 bonds means big change for students, teachers, and the community.

“It is unfortunate that in such a wealthy community, homeowners could not support our education in a small way that would have made a big difference for the future.” -Conner Draper ‘12

“I think that this will change everything aboiut our school. I hope that teacher’s will still have jobs and I am very worried about what will happen to our sports, arts, and music departments.” -Mackenzie Reed ‘14

thenews

Sta s r ff Membe “I”m concerned about the decisions that were made regarding the focused demographic--too small, too select. Perhaps the opposition was underestimated. Wildcat Mountain is in pretty good shape at this point. DC schools are still and will continue to to be among the best. All districts are struggling in this economy. “ -Paula Neil Wildcat Mountain Elementary 5th Grade

“We were blessed with the addition of the 4000’s wing last year but supplies and equipment are always needed with video production and multimedia. We will work hard with what we have and will continue to achieve great things with or without funding. I have a job, I’m lucky because of that. We’ve had budget cuts in the past few years and I’ve adapted. I’ll adapt again.” -Jim McClurg Digital Media/RCTV

“I voted for all three bills. There are a couple of different things it could affect. The failure simply continues this trend in Douglas County. Now, experienced and qualified teachers are being pushed into retirement, and there’s little funding available for new schools. Even if I didn’t have children in these schools, I would have still voted for them. It’s been shown that poorer schools have a direct affect on property value. A lot of people here think “I don’t have kids so I don’t care. It won’t affect me,” but it does.” -Dennis Thumann Father of two DC students

“I am definitely looking at our schedule and seeing if there is any wriggle room as far as configuring it to save money. We have a team here that will look at those different options. I truly don’t believe that the educational value will go down. I think that we have some very talented teachers that can help us problem solve and we have built up supplies/resources. I think that since we have been very good about saving that we are going to be okay. And what is really nice that Mr.

Abner and I have talked a lot about, we do share resources. Since we have kids who are going up to the high school right now, we give a little money to him so he can deal with that. We have a great work relationship that we can do some give-and-take and help each other out. Mr. Abner is so easy to work with because we have the value of what is best for kids Not always best for teachers, but for the kids.” -Patricia Dierberger RHMS Principal

elsatyr

15 [12/09/11]

Suffering Through the Sacrifices Satyrically Yours With propositions 103, 3A, and 3B not being passed recently, The Rock has compiled a list of what the school should be doing to save money instead of what they currently plan to do. Minimum of 75 students per • class. Trade in security golf carts for • razor scooters. • Sell the roof of the school on E-Bay. • No more heat. Remove all intercoms and replace • with a series of carrier pigeons. • Instead of fire alarms, assign one student to constantly run through the halls looking for a fire.

Sell all equipment in the t-shirt • printing shop and use the area to cultivate medical marijuana.

Get rid of all filing cabinets in the • counseling office... Scratch that, get rid of the counseling office.

Participate in the Mexican drug • cartels. • Sell the rock. Replace all Mac computers with • typewriters. Keep the PC’s, we

couldn’t get anything for those anyway. Teacher lockout. It worked for the NFL, it can work for us. Next year’s Make a Wish recipient: Rock Canyon.

• •

[seanmcgavin chrissafran michaelshapiro]

El Satyr El Satyr realizes that it is the product of misinformation and exaggeration. If you were insulted, hurt, or shocked while reading this page, El Satyr does not apologize. Also it’s not spelled wrong. Google it. therock is not an affiliate of El Satyr.

After the recent bond failure, the Rock decided to interview a Douglas County School Board member on the consequences of our budget crisis.

With the recent failure of the bonds, the atmosphere around the school has constricted the hallways. But none have felt the reverberating effects of the failure more severely than the district administration. The district office, once a place of splendor and a central hub of community life in Douglas County, has now devolved into a barren wasteland of post-bond blues. Reporter, Andrew Charap ‘11, was given the chance to explore one of the administrators thoughts about the failure and the future of Rock Canyon High School. “Here, have a seat,” Shawndra Dahler, a member of the

Douglas County School Board said. “Be careful, though, that’s new Gucci leather and lord knows this office can’t afford another plane-ticket to Botswana for our assistant to get a new chair. Budget’s tight, you know?”

Q&A

The Douglas CountyBudget Crisis With DC School Board Anita Disadvantage-ness Dahler Member M.D.

Rock: How has this offfice been affected by the failure of the bond? Dahler: “Oh my, you don’t have to look far to see! Take for example the new flatscreen in the hallway. That

was supposed to have 3-D capabilites. Now, we’re stuck with this pathetic excuse for high definition television. It’s just ridiculous that we’re being forced to make these sacrifices. I mean, we live in one of the richest counties in the nation, and they can’t set aside ten dollars a month to make sure that we have access to the latest innovations in entertainment? Ridiculous!” Rock: How do you think that this will affect the quality of education at Rock Canyon? Dahler:“Well, a number of students have come to talk to me about what they feel needs to be addressed first. For example, a little freshman came in the other day and informed me that his math class has thirty-five desks for forty students. I think that’s astonishing. He has the nerve to complain to me about a lack of desks? You want to hear a sad story? Talk to my assistant’s

assistant. He hasn’t had a desk for three weeks now. He can barely get my Starbuck’s on time in the morning!” Rock: What message do you have for students worried about the quality of their education? Dahler: “Oh! Um, the students, right....Well, I mean despite a few missing desks and teachers every once in a while, they really shouldn’t worried. I do, however, want to make it known that the office will be taking donations for the pot at our weekly Bunko games. And if anyone needs community service hours, we’re always willing to take volunteers to pass out drinks at the game. Business casual clothing only, please.

[andrewcharap]

An Official Press Release from Nutritastic Toys In light of recent government attempts to combat the obesity epidemic by removing cartoon characters from cereal advertising campaigns, Nutritastic Toys has announced the release of a new toy engineered to encourage healthy living.

This holiday season, in joint association with Sesame Street Incorporated, Nutri-Tastic Toys will be releasing their latest calorieconscious invention--”Keeping it Counted Cookie Monster”--in Toys R Us and Weight Watchers establishments across the nation. According to the 2011 report from the United States Department of Moderation and Dietary Regulation, approximately 78% of all toddlers, adolescents, adults and individuals over the age of 56, will be overweight at some point in their lifetime. “We created this toy to help children realize that caloric dangers lurk in everything they eat,” Nutri-Tastic Toys’ Vice President of Sales, Jim “the Slim” Jameson said.“And we felt that the most effective way to convey that message was through the Cookie Monster.” This innovative new Cookie Monster toy was released at the request of the United States Government in an effort to help reduce the overwhelming proliferation of childhood obesity throughout the country. The object of this interactive toy is for children to feed Cookie Monster one of twelve cookies and, in response, he will tell the child the nutritional content of each cookie. “I never realized how bad peanut butter cookies were for my son,” parent, Margie Weatherson said, “but as soon as Colby (my son) fed him the cookie, I knew that I had been doing wrong by my child in feeding him anything that doesn’t grow on a tree... One of the worst things that you can hear as

a parent is, ‘Mmmm, peanut butter cookie; 567calories. Colby will have to run full Ironman marathon to burn this off. Very unhealthy cookie.’...You just feel like a failure.” The toy has its release date set for November 26 and is customizable with a variety of holiday options including Matzo ball Monster, Politically Correct Rice Cake Monster and Non-implicit Kawanza Kookie Monster. “We felt that the only efficient way to support our entire market was to appeal to every demographic evident in the nation,” Marketing Executive, Sarah Timble said.“This way we can effectively spread our message of health and fitness across every

facet of American society. We are currently in the process of developing other models as well, including the gangsta, “Keepin’ it Real [Fit] Monster” and the lacrosse playing, “Totally Bro Cookie Broski Monster Bro.” Needless to say, this toy is the perfect gift for children and post-menopausal women of all ages; equipped with varying cookie and respective fitness options and a customizable calorie counter that can be adjusted to suit your personal age, height and weight. This product is currently available online at www.whathasthisworldcometo.com/store.

[sydcharvat]

[12/09/11]

indepth

16 Target, Walmart and Best Buy brought Black Friday to a new extreme this year, opening at 11 p.m. Nov. 24. making the nation’s first Black Thursday. Lauren Mooney, ‘12, went to Best Buy around 1 in the afternoon. “It was so crowded,”she says. “I went in to grab a game and I was freaking out. I would never do it again...well maybe I will. I got a really good deal.”

on 11:10Right Target p.m.

Midnight madness at Target poses a question toward the evolution of twenty first century Thanksgiving

For the first time in my life I went to Black Friday. Standing in line for a half an hour I am excited to be part of a crazy tradition that comes once a year. As we are ushered in, there are police standing by. The store employees are spread out looking like they are about to go to battle. Then again, it is more or less like a battle field. The store is set up like a maze, forcing customers to weave through the entire store just to get to the checkout line. The electronics section is madness. All this insanity has got me thinking; what is this new face of Thanksgiving and where is it coming from? Many people believe stores such as Target, Wal-mart, Best Buy, Macy’s and other major stores have crossed a line opening their stores at 9, 10 or midnight on Thanksgiving for those who are looking for deals. Like Sunday football and apple pie, Black Friday has wormed its way into becoming a defining part of American culture; the question becomes whether or not we, as Americans, are proud of it. Thanksgiving hasn’t necessarily disappeared—rather, Black Friday has taken Thanksgiving underneath its wing, morphing the two holidays into a week long event of giving and thank you’s. “Last year and the year before that [the deals] were much better,” says Lynn Mathais, a shopper at Park Meadows mall. “Since the economy is going through a rough economic time many stores are desperate for consumers attention.” Gone are the days of over stuffed turkeys and grandma’s canned cranberry sauce. The spirit of Thanksgiving is being overshadowed by the craziness of Black Friday deals. Don’t get me wrong, it’s exciting to stay up all night to be part of the madness of Black Friday; but is it worth the deaths and injuries that have happened in the past years? Apparently so... many were willing to part with their family and food for the chance to buy cheap electronics and other merchandise. No longer can you enjoy having a full stomach of maybe a homemade meal for more then a couple of hours before preparing to head out into the crazy,cold, crowded lines for deals that really aren’t that great. Yes, our economy is not great as of right now and the steals are tempting; (Westinghouse 40” LCD HDTV for $298.00) yes, it is exciting to buy the newest Barbie doll or hottest skateboard. When you step back and take a look at your purchases are they even necessary? Has the spirit of giving thanks gone along with the pocket money of the consumer? [maerohrbach]

Catherine G e seniors at Ch orge and her friends, Sh ten last nigh eyenne Mountain High annon Meeks and Lisa C sc scene of Bla t and hadn’t stopped sin hool, started shopping hoe, ck Friday the ce 6:30 a.m. since for the heck y of it,”said Ge went to Wamart and C First time on the a orge. “And a lso, to buy C stle Pines. “We went hristmas gif ts.”

1:45 a.m.

California’s Walmarts are ablaze already, really? Well... not really but The “black”in Black Friday takes a the crowds ominous meaning after news hits of costumers flooding of the morning death toll stores were more or less beginning to riot. From elderly women dousing crowds with pepper spray, to desperate X-box thieves gunning down shoppers for their Black Friday winnings, Walmart is, according to Catherine George ’12, from Cheyenne Mountain high school, “a complete nightmare. Walmart, come post Thanksgiving season, isn’t the only abyss of X-box lust and soccer moms gone bad; at a Target in West Virginia, a man collapsed. His fellow bargain huntersdecided to leave the dead body while they finished their shopping; the man died in hospital hours later. This shopper’s violence poses an interesting question; has the name “Black Friday” shed its original meaning and rebirthed the “black” in its name to parallel the dark times that have sparked its infamous violence? Or are the few deaths, burns, and lacerations a necessary evil of the most nationally anticipated commercial holiday?

News Flash

: y a d i r F k c a l B

s r u o H e r Befo

k Friday eping 22 million Bl. ac sle ill st is ld or w e th d an Bu Before the sun risese malls at the earliest hours of the morning t to shoppers brave th asses one must become one of the masses morning e house quiet, early understand the m en; over the horizon, th

5:30 a.m.

evision scre The sun is barely the bottom of the tel ng alo g in nn ru s ht evision remote long ESPN highlig or even grasp the tel dy bo one y m lift to t, and experienced I can’t seem nel. I have seen, fel an ch e th h itc . sw ng enough to k Friday shoppi ck erican culture; Blac ken up at three o’clo of key parts of Am t, as if we hadn’t wo gh s ni rie t las sto d ed an en als pp day hunting de e th It feels as if it all ha of s ur ho t es ever seen. d spent the earli Meadows mall has rk Pa in the morning an at th rs pe op why anyone avest groups sh onings. We wonder as re s’ from one of the br er nt hu ain rcent off sales, n these barg eir lives, over 50 pe th Most of us questio s, se ca e m so d ep, sanity, an would risk their sle eap; d freebies. an tching sleep for ch buy one get one’s rpose is far from di pu ol eir ho th sc y gh sa hi e a m n; so However, r the traditio fo it in e ar C N U a Victoria’s Secret pair from oft store window ; a mother-daughter os icr M a m fro t the even cks for herself. student rather watch ng to make a few bu pi ho is ount of dollars in ita Br m morning and the am employee fro is th e fiv t hi dy ea s alr be to celebrate But the death toll ha ly country on the glo on e r th As l. ica m trono estion as to whethe already spent are as brings upon the qu its r, st ne ju an an m th a ic ch bl in su for the American pu mass consumerism s something darker fie ni sig ay id Fr k ac or not Bl ack”. “moving into the bl ion Black Friday company revenues g one of the 22 mill in m e. co be nd hi be d I can barely mov Either way, the rush high. I’m hungry an of nd ki ge an str a is shoppers this year [danielleburrage] regrets. no ve ha I t, ye d An

indepth

4:30 A New View to Black Friday a.m.

[12/09/11]

A foriegner’s first time view on the international phenomenon of Black Friday

It is approaching 4:30a.m, and the November sun is lolling along the horizon, a stark contrast from the playful holiday lights that are strung across the mall, twinkling in every direction. Victoria’s Secret is buzzing; there is a line that’s edging toward the front display rooms, compiled of coffee toting women and their dragging boyfriends. It has been like this since their opening, according to Holly Westwood, a Victoria’s Secret employee who we happened to catch on her way out. She’s smiling though her sky blue eyes are tinged with weariness. “I got here around 2:30 this morning, though we didn’t open until four,” Westwood says. “Already the PINK section has been hit really hard. At one point the line was out the front door. I’m British so I don’t really do Thanksgiving, but if I did have a family Thanksgiving I would have probably missed it.” Westwood, who is a native to the southern part of Britain, has been traveling back and forth between the two countries for the past ten years; however this is her first time experiencing the storm that is Black Friday. “We don’t have this sort of thing in Britain,” she says. “I don’t think the English would care enough to get up in the middle of the night to go shopping. I personally think it’s quite sad because it seems like

5:30 Food For a.m. Thought

As the sun begins to rise we ponder the math behind Black Friday. Here are this year’s numbers:

In general....

there is more of a focus on the Black Friday thing than Thanksgiving and I feel that shift has really taken away from being with your family.” As the store’s traffic increases, Westwood glances at the ever-growing queue behind her and shrugs. “I really don’t understand it. Like I have heard about people being trampled trying to come through the doors; I mean, it’s shopping people. The deals really aren’t that amazing.” Coming from a nation that recognizes Boxing Day, a famously “calmer” equivalent to Black Friday in Canada, New Zealand, Australia, and the United Kingdom, Westwood, as well as many BritishAmericans see the pinnacle that is Black Friday as absolutely insane. To Westwood in particular, something so “strange and crazy”, just isn’t worth the effort. “I may work again on Black Friday but I’ll never get up to go shopping,” she says. [danielleburrage]

Hours before opening, patie nt 50% off sales and other exc Forever 21 shoppers lined the store’s doors anticipa ting the lusive deals for the day.

Getting to bed early and waking up on Black Friday is no new ordeal for Lynn Mathais and her daughter Jenny Mathais, a student at UNC who have been waking up to partake in the madness of Black Friday for the past several years. “We were really disappointed with the stores that are opened at midnight. We don’t do the midnight stuff. When they opened at four then we could pick one and hang out and now that stores are opening at midnight we just stay up and that’s different from getting up really early,’” Mathais said.

Nearly 135 million people go out for Black Friday each year Believe it or not, Black Friday is not the biggest shopping day of the year. The day before Christmas takes the gold. Catherine G e Cheyenne M orge and her friends, Sh hadn’t stopp ountain Highschool, sta annon Meeks and Lisa C hoe, seniors rted shopp ed since 6:3 40 percent of holiday shoppers begin before“AwnedntatolsoW, toamart and Cast0leaP.min.eFis.rs“Wt time on the scinegnsienocef Btelan last night andat ck Fr buy Christm e went for th Halloween as gifts.” e heck of it,” iday they said George . $816 million dollars were spent this Black Friday

This year’s totals....

22 million people went shopping this weekend 59 percent of shoppers bought online $479 million was made by online shopping

sales

496,000 seasonal employees hired

[maerohrbach]

Shoppers lin recharge for e up at Starbuck’s early Fr Meadow sh their holiday bargain hu iday morning in order to oppers, the line wrappe nting. According to Park d around Go diva all day.

6:30 The Gamer a.m.

We run across Maxwell Pederson, ’14, in the Microsoft store, attached to one of the model computers by a pair of over sized headphones, fingers tapping against the keyboard in time with a game similar to Dance, Dance Revolution. After a minute or two, he finally removes the headphones, stretches his fingers, and flashes us a grin. Its a grin that should be illegal at 5:30 in the morning, especially coming from someone who’s been out and about since nine o’clock last night, with no form of caffeine in his body. “I ate an early Thanksgiving at three in the afternoon and then started to prepare [for this],” he says. “I swear I’m not wired. I haven’t had any type of coffee. I’m just making it through.” Pederson’s definition of “making it through” is more or less a moment of bravery rather than a laissez-faire event. “I got here at nine [last night], waited in line for Best Buy for forever, got in and decided I didn’t want anything there,” he said. “Then I went to Macy’s, didn’t like anything at Macy’s, and didn’t buy anything. Honestly, I question why I am even here. I don’t have any money.” He smiles. “I’m just enjoying the spirit of Black Friday.” This spirit, according to Pederson, has been—more or less—haunting Park Meadows mall since its opening at 4 am. “It’s ridiculously hectic,” he says. “People are practically pounding on the doors to get in. They’re just wired; they’re going nuts. Have you seen the line for Starbucks? It’s completely wrapped around [the wall].” He’s right. The line for Starbucks wraps past the rounded wall where the jewelry store sits, along the Godiva store and is inching toward White House, Black Market. And although Pederson doesn’t quite understand the reasoning behind waiting an hour for Starbucks coffee instead of spending the time toward shopping, he entirely understands the somewhat manic tingle that comes along with the “Black Friday Spirit.” “If I had money, I’d buy Polo…and J.Crew. Lots of J.Crew,” he says. But shopping has to come later; Pederson has video games on the mind. “And anyway, just watching it isn’t too bad.” [danielleburrage]

[12/09/11]

thenews

Student Teacher Nathan Ubowski Makes a Positive Impact on Students Nathan Ubowski has spent this semester student-teaching for free. Ubowski has many students that will miss him and wish him the best. Thanks for all the help!

Mr. Ubowski, I have appreciated having you in class. I have never had a student teacher spend so much extra time after school working with us even when you didn’t have to. I wish you the best of luck with your next job. I know that you will get a great job because you are more committed to teaching than most teachers I have ever met. Hopefully you will be able to come back and visit us, and help me with my spelling. You’re the best Ubo! Lauren Scheirman

My favorite thing about Mr. Ubowski is how he connects with us so well. He’s super funny and you can really tell he cares. He’s engaging and is really fun to be around. Carrie Corberta

Simply the best Mr.Ubowski is the best student teacher ever because he really explained his lessons in ways I could understand and tried to make them as dynamic as he could, which really helped. Zack Rickert

I love Mr. Ubowski’s fun-loving spirit. He’s always giving us feedback on how to make our writing better. Thanks to his feedback I was finally able to finish writing the book I’ve been working on for the past two years. I will miss you so much, Mr. Ubowski!!! Ravyn Richardson

Good Luck with Everything you do!

Nate has been an incredible addition to the RC staff, even if only for a short time. His willingness to work extremely hard, while truly connecting with the publications students and staff sets him apart and is why I know he will be a success wherever he lands. He has become a great teacher and a friend to Kristi and me. Rob Rathbun

Connecting the dots Mr. Ubowski made English fun while still teaching us vital information. Megan Burke

“U”will be missed!

I learned a lot from Mr Ubowski -- obviously in English, but in life too. He showed a positive attitude, always made us laugh and taught us fun things every day! We will always remember him with great memories! Victoria Vanderpoel

Connecting the dots

Just in time for the new year

“This has been such a great semester for me and for my students because of Mr. Ubowski. He’s a natural teacher with amazing skills. I’m going to miss him a ton,”English and publications teacher Kristi Rathbun said. “Mr. Ubowski: It has been a great year with you as our “When I was a sophomore I had Mrs.Rathbun as a teacher that student teacher. You taught me a lot and I am sad to see you leave. You are a great teacher and we will all miss you,” year too and her student teacher was definitely not as cool as Ubowski. He’s so much fun to have around and I’ve enjoyed Kayla Neil ‘13 said. yearbook even more because of him,” Rema Maaliki ‘12 said.

Keeping it Positive

“Mr. Ubowski is one of those rare teachers that will actually take the time to get to know his students. All of us have been really lucky to have him as an instructor, and more so as a peer in our learning process,”Andrew Charap ‘12 said.

“He is one of those people who deserves the best because he is passionate at what he does and always does it to the best of his ability. We will miss him next semester,”Julia Adams ‘12 said. “He is a rare combination of natural talent, and youthful dedication,” English teacher Melissa Rosati said.

theopinions

19 [12/09/11]

Heartache and Trigonometry Math is hard, relationships are hard, life is hard- but that doesn’t mean that we have to let it beat us.

[zachanderson] Relationships are like math. Bad math. Math that makes your brain hurt and makes you wish that cavemen had simply ended their search for arithmetic-related knowledge once they figured out that one rock plus another rock equals two rocks. Like relationships, math isn’t always easy. Sometimes, you spend hours upon hours studying in an attempt to make sense of something that is impossible to predict or even understand. And, even after all of those hours of incessant calculator-keypad typing and crumbled up balls of graph paper, still nothing seems to add up... literally.

that’s what she syd

But the thing is, we are required to take geometry to graduate. It’s just one of those things that we have to go through; whether we like it or not. However, the most awful thing in the world, even worse than having to endure a year of cosines, complex equations and senseless combinations of numbers and letters, is heartbreak. When someone breaks your heart, you feel powerless; like nothing is fair, and like life has punched you so hard in the gut, that you’re not entirely sure how to get up. And, just like that math problem you can’t seem to solve, you have no idea how to make sense of it.

From‘Copter to Careless

We’ve changed. Not us personally, I mean society has. A few years ago, our parents were too involved. The Rock did an issue, with only two words on the cover, Helicopter Parents. Now, we have something even worse: Uninvolved Parents. The frozen yogurt shop I work at gives me a front row seat to uninvolved parenting every day. At the store we have rows and rows of these tiny tins filled with toppings. We keep them clean and organized. When these families come in, the children sometimes stick their hands in each tin and grab fist-fulls of the toppings, and fling them around. The blame can only fall on the

bringin’ down the marthouse

parents. They watch their kids with impatient eyes and smiles. If they see an employee they smile even bigger, smooth their children’s hair, and say “Oh, they’re just the cutest. They love oreos!” I remember being that little and going into an ice cream shop, and quietly standing behind my dad, letting him do all the talking, all the ‘grown up stuff.’ If that shop had toppings, my hands wouldn’t go near it. And if they did, and I made a mess, I would get in trouble with my parents. I would have to apologize and clean it up myself. It was just respectful. I’m not saying these kids aren’t respectful, because they can be, I just think they just haven’t been taught the right way. Is it better this way, when we can

I blamed myself. I thought that it was my fault. I thought that I was the one that had wrecked something that was once so perfect and so “nice”; so I resorted to feeling sorry for myself and allowing myself to live in this awful, lonely place in my mind…almost like I was trying to punish myself. Anyone who has ever had their heart broken knows that, in that first week of aftermath, they listened to Adele’s “Someone Like You” on a loop and ate chocolate in amounts fit to freak out Willy Wonka. They know that they spent hours on Facebook waiting to hear that their ex-boyfriend/girlfriend was either thinking about them or was suffering some sort of emotional blow from the break-up. But, I knew that these things, as healing as they may seem, really only covered up the problem and kept me from facing the issue head-on. How can people find the strength and the confidence within themselves to bounce back and punch life in the face like the temperamental and menopausal woman that it is? How can anyone possibly think that relationships are easy? Then, ironically enough, one night I was sitting in my living room watching, “Good Will Hunting,” and suddenly I began to think; if someone as brilliant as Will Hunting can easily decipher these seemingly impossible math problems that 99% of the population couldn’t solve with all of the instruction in the world, then maybe there are some things--like math and relationships--that aren’t meant to be easy and are meant to test us. If life had wanted math to be simple, I can promise you that finding the area of a sphere wouldn’t be the mathematic equivalent to brain

be independent and learn how to grow up by ourselves? In my opinion, no. My parents were involved in my childhood, and they’re even involved now. I know that from their guidance, I’ve been able to grow up and make the right decisions for myself. For me, childhood is a time when we can learn to be genuinely good people. We are influenced by our parents. Right now, our parents get their influence from shows like “Dance Moms” and “The real housewives of Atlanta.” There comes a point when I think to myself ‘are parents really like this?’ Parents aren’t horrible, but our views are a little mixed up. It’s time for us all to become involved in the lives of the future’s children.

surgery. And, just as well, if relationships were meant to be simple, every girl would have a date to homecoming--and no one would have to spend the weeks preceding prom eyeing public proposals with envy. But, as life- in her moody and unpredictable nature- would have it, if relationships were easy, then everything special and important and new that comes out of that relationship wouldn’t be worth anything. Just the same, if we were to just sit through math class, all year, copying off of the kid sitting next to us--getting an A on the semester final after countless hours of studying, it wouldn’t be nearly as satisfying. There are few things in life that come easily to everyone and when we don’t understand something. We instantly resort to blaming ourselves for our problems and only bury ourselves deeper and deeper into a sad place; rather than looking at the big picture and realizing that nothing in life is easy and that nothing that’s easy is worth waiting for and working at. Because, ultimately, if we choose to spend four hours studying equations before the semester final and if we choose to turn off our cell phones and log off of Facebook for a few hours; we just might be able to beat life at its own game. Even though it may take hours to figure out how to factor a quadratic equation or decipher a complex word problem, in the end, there’s always an answer; and even if it takes a while, the solution will always reveal itself. Learning how to deal is all part of the equation, once you face the problem and rise above--there is no way you can ever get an incorrect answer.

Going

Out

Bake Sales

Bonds Passing

Having Money

Tebowing

Planking

Being Normal

Twilight: Breaking Dawn Part 1

Paranormal Activity 3

Quality Movies

Christmas Cookies

Turkey and Stuffing

Fitting into your jeans

Ugly Holiday Sweaters

Jeggings

Crocs

[12/09/11]

theopinions

Rockarazzi -“When life gives you scissors, cut your toenails.”

-“Wait, Holy Water, that’s like, the stuff that’s imported from Italy right?” -“I’m like a flaming torch.. On fire!” -“I can’t tell if I’m nervous, or if I just have to pee.” -“Pensive means to think. I know. I speak Spanish and Harry Potter.”

-”And then there were squirrels, and it was just...bad.” -”I have a bundt cake in my backpack.” -”I just assaulted like six kids!” -”It’s all about my peppermint shirt.” -”If Physics doesn’t make sense, you’re doing it right” -”Wanna hear a bird joke?” “No.” “That’s hawkward..” -”What do you want to do?” “I WANT TO THROW GRAPES.” -”If I don’t have a wicked case of red -face, I’m not enjoying my life.”

[zachanderson]

A Neighborhood Not Traveled A while ago , I finished a test about 40 minutes before the end of the time, I realized I had absolutely nothing to read. And then came that horrifying moment when I realized that I, with no input whatsoever, would have to spend 40 minutes alone, with myself. One of my favorite authors once called her mind “a neighborhood I try not to go into alone.” And it’s so true. But I had no choice. So, I told myself hello, and, since we’d be spending so much time together we both might as well suck it up and try to be pleasant. I read all the posters in the room and laid on my arms until my wrists hurt. Then I

running erinds

got deeply philosophical, why was I so very distraught being alone? Perhaps that was the true problem with the human race: we couldn’t face our own problems. I considered writing a commentary about it. Then I just got bored again. I looked around at my fellow test victims, all of whom were finished testing and either sleeping or reading. The kid next to me skateboarded with his fingers over his desk, the girl in front of me whacked me with her hair. I looked up at the ceiling to see if anyone else would look up. They didn’t. I considered writing a song. I mentally studied the circulatory system. I’ve since considered how often it is that I’m really, truly alone. And it’s not very often.

Faster Than a Bullet It has dominated the radio stations. You can hear it on iPods. You can hear it being hummed in the hallways. The song has an up-beat perky tune and has been in the top 10 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart for the last five weeks. “Pumped Up Kicks” by Foster The People is also a song about a boy preparing to shoot his classmates at school. “All the other kids with the pumped up kicks you’d better run, better run, outrun my gun…” says the chorus, “you’d better run, better run, faster than my bullet.” Are we really that desensitized by violent video games and television shows? Or are the lyrics droned out by the value of the audio qualities? The song almost mocks those who died in school shootings by framing the issue in such a positive light.

princess williams

The older generations seem to have caught on to the disturbing message of the song and have expressed their strong disapproval. Both my parents and other adults I know are in disbelief that a song with such a message can be so widely accepted and loved. A handful of the adults I know even plan to call the radio stations playing it and discourage them from continuing to play the song. A radio station near Virginia Tech banned the song from playing on their station because of sensitivity issues. There is currently a petition directed to all Northern California Bay Area radio stations to ban the song as well. Even Facebook groups supporting the ban of the song on radio stations across the country have emerged.

Whether or not banning the song is an extreme measure, hearing children sing the song that belittles school shooting strikes me as disturbing. Police in Phoenix recently arrested a 14 year old boy after he left a comment on a YouTube video for “Pumped Up Kicks”, threatening to shoot students and then commit suicide at his former middle school. His threat as it relates to the song have stirred up the controversy even further by bringing up the debate about whether the song is to blame for his threat. Regardless of the issues created by the song, the fact that our society could ignore, let alone value, a song glorifying a school shooting, definitely speaks volumes about today’s societal views and values.

School is about as not-alone as you can get; own. But I never actually sit down with myself it’s maximum interaction, always surrounded and talk about me. by at least twenty people and hallways that Everyone who accepted Rachel’s Challenge is trying to be kind; to start a chain reaction. I resemble an apocalypse movie about overpopulation. I’m always at church, or with my love that, I’m completely thrilled. But there’s family, friends or neighbors. Even when I’m a problem. alone, someone is usually texting or chatting Let’s be honest, it will pass. We’ll get or updating me on their life in caught back up in homework some way. and friends and the temptation I’ve since to be snippy. The only way this Usually, hanging out with considered myself is my last priority. I’m like will work is if we take the time how often it is the friend you only text when to look at ourselves. To journal that I’m really, everyone else is busy. and realize who we are so that truly alone. During Rachel’s we can go on and touch millions Challenge,we were told to keep of hearts. It’s not the fun part, a journal. I always carry around notebooks in in fact, it’s rather uncomfortable. It’s going which I write monologues, poetry and bits of into the dark neighborhood by yourself. But I believe that we can do it, I truly do. fiction. I can’t even guess how many journals I

“

-“Your hair looks like a saggy boob.”

Unbelievable “All Douglas County Schools and Programs are operating on a normal schedule”

Taking 25 minutes to get to school from three miles away

Believable Post-Thanksgiving food comas leaving many incapacitated

Valor’s football team being investigated for recruiting

Unbelievably believable Jerry Sandusky,former Penn State assistant football coach wrote a book titled: Touched

Black Friday madness includes a trampling victim and pepper-sprayed shoppers

theopinions

21 [12/09/11]

Letter to the Editor:

[laurenposey]

The Politics of Ten-Year-Olds Our country’s hostile opposing viewpoints are now being advertised by labels, clothing, and even children

a nicole for your thoughts

While many to this day idealize by polarizing cliches that indicate how “American values” that promote a harshly divisive our two-party system sense of democracy and enlightenhas become, perhaps ment, it is evident based on our directly correlating to our country’s political government’s progress (or lack thereof) that this “respect,” for democracy has stagnancy. been diminished and mutated into This stark separaa battle where opposing sides refuse tion has left Washto acknowledge the others’ ideas and ington at a standstill. Our government’s inability to pass beliefs. A democracy allows a person to legislation has not allowed us to decide express their viewpoint without being upon a budget that will allow the condemned as “too liberal,” or “too government to progress. conservative.” A nondiscriminatory The Economist synthesizes this impasse perfectly, “All this year the attitude is what must be implemented into the government’s harshly biased deadlock between the Republicans perspectives, in order in Congress and Mr. to create effective Obama has meant that Our political solutions. precious little legislation climate is now These opposing has passed. The presicharacterized dent’s jobs bill is stuck; beliefs are now charby polarizing acterized by labels, the House of Repreclichés pro-life, pro-choice, sentatives’ budget plans pro-gun, pro-taxes, have been scuppered by pro-universal health care, etc.These lathe Democrat-controlled Senate. At bels are represented with flashy bumper the end of this year temporary tax cuts and other measures, worth around 2% stickers, loud-mouthed conversations, and of course the occasional offensive of GDP, are set to expire-which could tee-shirt donned by a brash ten-year push America back into a recession.” Based on the inflexible attitudes old. Perhaps our government wouldn’t that have created this political halt, it be a bitter time-bomb if our parties can be easily assumed that if the U.S. could recognize each others’ viewwas thrown back into a recession, each points and coexist. party would wage a mud-slinging crusade against one another. This would, of course, be an immediate remedy to our country’s turmoil.

“

“Friends don’t let friends sleep with democrats.” This is the bitingly blunt statement that I read on a ten-year-old boy’s tee-shirt a few weeks ago at a swim meet. Upon him catching me reading his shirt and feigning a look of mild disinterest, the young boy looked up at me and declared, “YEAH! That’s right!” Shocked at his blatantly rude remark, and unhinged by this “humorous” tee-shirt, I walked past him, but the situation still bugged me. For starters, since when is it acceptable for a ten-year-old to be wearing something with a theme containing sexual overtones? Has it become so commonplace to not only publicize our views in a vulgar and insulting way, but to use children to do so? To give this some context, during the late 1990’s, a popular ad campaign displayed the phrase on t-shirts, “friends don’t let friends drive drunk.” This was responsible message, made in an attempt to foster a positive societal change. Now, it has been transformed into a platform for parents to proclaim their political affiliation through their impressionable children. This experience exemplifies how our political climate is now characterized

I am a Douglas County secondary teacher writing in response to the article “Dougco Schools to go ahead with payfor-performance plan” in the November 16, Castle Rock area “Your Hub” section. Dr. Fagen states that the Board intends to go through with their pay-forperformance plan, despite the fact that the public voted down pay-for performance in November’s election, despite the fact that the state is decreasing per pupil finding $465 next year, despite the district’s $25,000,000 shortfall in funds. Teachers are concerned that parents are not given an accurate picture of what is on their slate at their neighborhood schools. We are told that class sizes will increase from 35-40 to 40-45 in some cases. Eight to 11 teachers may be cut from secondary schools; students will be allowed to take no more than six classes; elective classes (such as art, band, choir, foreign language, p.e.) will suffer cuts. Teachers are now in the fourth year of a pay freeze; next year, four furlough days will further cut teacher salaries that have already been reduced due to increased insurance costs. Some schools are now asking teachers to purchase class supplies. There has been talk that students may be required to purchase their textbooks--an incredibly expensive proposition that runs counter to the very fundamentals of public education. At this point, we don’t know what is rumor and what is truly at stake; however, it is obvious that the school board’s plans, spearheaded by Dr. Fagen, are sidelined by their vision of bringing innovation to Douglas County at taxpayers’ expense, and ignoring their own request for transparency. Despite the fact that Dr. Fagen’s $280,350 annual salary is not

subject to pay-for-performance, it appears she may ask teachers to fund her experiment with a 5% pay cut. Yet, pay-for-perfrormance is not an issue; Douglas County teachers have always been proud of our performance: our excellent and outstanding rank, the percentage of our students who continue on to Ivy League schools, our high scores in national ACT, IB and AP assessments. It is, however, a tremendous waste of time and resources. Aren’t we trying to reduce bureaucracy? Pay-for-performance is simply more paper shuffling that keeps teachers from class time with students. Our superintendent is the most highly-paid superintendent in the state. According to board member Dan Gerken, at the time of her hire, it was deemed “politically untenable” to assess her on a pay-for-performance scale. The Board seems determined to mirror Fagen’s strategy in Tucson, her previous position, which was to bankrupt the district and fire all of the teachers, only to rehire them back at lower salaries. The parents of Douglas County want a world-class education for their children. They want to continue or tradition of excellence in a cash-strapped economy. Instead, they are given an expensive dogand-pony show of costly and unnecessary experiments that guarantee nothing more than national recognition to the Board and Dr. Fagen. Douglas County taxpayers deserve better. Isn’t it time for a Board schooled in education and the intricacies of the educational funding, a superintendent who supports teachers, and full transparency to the public? It’s what our students deserve. *Note: Author’s name withheld by request.

The Rock Staff Editorial Managing Editor: News Editors: In-Depth Editors: Sports Editors: Opinions Editors: Online Editor: Business Editor: Illustrator:

Lauren Scheirman Kayla Neil, Erin Snyder Danielle Burrage, Syd Charvat Alex Pedrinan, Jeremy Purchase Andrew Bohren, Michael Shapiro, Chris Safran Andrew Charap, Allie Cole Charlie Melbye Cecilia Castro Zach Anderson

Reporting Megan Boyles Nicole Cassou Natalie Holthaus Kendall Koslosky Lizzy Marthouse Sean McGavin Bryan Metze Christian Nicholson

Rylee Portman Lauren Posey Mae Rohrbach Maddie Whitten Danielle Williams Cambel Winkler Virginia Vaughan

The goals of The Rock, the student newspaper of Rock Canyon High School, are to inform, educate, and entertain the readers as well as to provide an educational opportunity for the students who produce it. The first three copies of The Rock are free, additional copies are available for 50 cents each. The Rock invites your comments. Letters to the editor and commentary submissions are encouraged. You are also encouraged to submit coverage ideas, cartoons, photos or anything else you wish to see in the Rock. Opinions of the staff are presented as editorials. All editorials are at least the majority view of the editorial board. We also feature a number of columnists and commentary writers. Their opinions are their own. Rock Canyon High School 5810 McArthur Ranch Road Highlands Ranch, CO 80124

[12/09/11]

theeditorial

A Spark of Light vs. an Inferno of Greed Issue: Education funding failed in the November election. Our stance: The current societal attitude towards education has devalued its importance.

t would seem as if we need another Rachel’s Challenge. Not for us. Not for the teachers. But for Douglas County voters. On November 2, a simple piece of paper was handed out to those in Douglas County that contained a small paragraph. In just a few short sentences, it proposed a modest idea: spare a few dollars per month to make sure that the kids in Douglas County who attend public schools can continue to get the education they deserve. To many, this was an easy choice. If all they had to do was sacrifice seven dollars a month, then they had no doubt in their mind it was worth it. After all, would they have been exposed to the opportunities that shaped their life without a solid education? But for others those few sentences infuriated,confused or just plain annoyed. And when the votes were finally tallied, this group got its way. And now our school district is preparing to face one of the darkest periods in its history. The implications of our strategy to oppose the debt last year has now become Douglas County School Districts burden for many years to come. Amidst this political and bureaucratic chaos,

Life In Ink Note: a bill was signed Nov. 18, making commercial horse slaughter once again legal in the United States.

a man came to our school, and, in one hour, recalibrated the disposition of our entire student body. He told us of a girl, idealistic yet starkly pragmatic, who believed that there was good in everyone. That, given the chance, she could and would find light in the darkest of places. Rachel Joy Scott, who represented everything that Rock Canyon would then aspire to be, was also the first to be killed in the Columbine Shootings. However, we didn’t sit through that assembly to hear about the tragedy of her death. Instead, we were reminded of the value of sharing, eliminating prejudice and being decent human beings. We were

told that, no matter who you are and where you go, these virtues will never lead you astray. And just how valuable these virtues were was demonstrated neatly when, devoid of any sense of giving, our county denied any chance for our schools to receive much needed funding.

District Disappointment

The Rock is speaking for many at Rock Canyon when we say were are sickened by this turnout. How warped have the values of this county become when donating pocket change to guarantee a quality education for children has become too much to ask in a city with a median income just shy of six-figures? The argument is, at the very least, trite; but the principle still stands. Why has one of the most lavish counties in the nation once again given the cold shoulder to education?

To understand the results of the voting, perhaps the occurrence of Challenge Week can explain, rather than confuse. The mission statement of Rachel’s Challenge states that they seek to inspire a change for the better in schools and communities. This is a noble goal, and the event has certainly sparked an attitude shift within our walls. But why did we need to hear Rachel’s message in the first place? The answer to this question is the same as the answer to our original question: we’ve forsaken kindness in favor of greed.

Black Friday Spenders

This phenomenon extends far beyond the bond issue. Take, for example, Black Friday. Notorious for being a day of ‘competitive’ shopping, this year marked a re-

cord for buyer turnout, and jaw-dropping sales stirred the inner demons of many a shopper. In Los Angeles, one woman pepper-sprayed a crowd of people in an attempt to receive an Xbox 360. Shocking, yes. But unbelievable? No. This wheel of craziness and blatant greed has been rolling for the last decade, and the end is certainly not near. Just as unsettling as the failure of the mill levies, is where we are allocating the precious few resources we have left. Whereas a new teacher at Rock Canyon is making a cringe-

worthy salary, our superintendent Dr. Elizabeth Celania-Fagen has been receiving a salary of $280,350 dollars a year (in a district with a $35 million dollar deficit). Compare this to her previous salary of $205,000 dollars while serving as the superintendent of Tucson Unified School District (a district with an $8 million dollar deficit) and it’s hard to not be frustrated. Asked about a rumor of a possible raise in her salary, she responded “No, I have received no raise.” Additionally, in response to concerns over the district budget, she states that “our district budget is healthy.” The previous superintendent of our school district, Dr. Jim Christensen, made $245,208 a year -- $35,142 dollars less than Dr. Fagen.

Now what do we do?

But how do we make it stop? Where is that rut in the road that will finally interrupt this trend of apathy and greed towards education? The unfortunate truth is that the gradual degradation of our school system will not wake up the community. It’s essentially the frog-in-water effect. Slowly chip away at the school system and it will go unno-

ticed, but when numerous talented teachers are fired at students are sitting on the floor sharing ripped textbooks on August 11, 2012, we may finally see some change.

thecalendar 5:30 p.m. boys freshman bas- 12 ketball tournament @ Chaparrel High School

Finals 1 through 3

Finals Week

Study Tips for Finals 1.Study at the same time and place every time. 2.Do the hard studying first. 3.Review regularly and don’t save all the studying for the last night.

Finals 4 & 5

FRIDAY

THURSDAY 14

Boys Freshman Basketball @ CHAP Freshman Tournament 5:30 p.m. Girls JV Basketball vs. Greeley West High School 6:00 p.m. Boys Sophomore Basketball @ Douglas County 7:00 p.m. Girls Varsity Basketball vs. Greeley West High School

Finals 6 & 7

Boys Varsity Basketball vs. Boys Basketball Winter Shootout 6:00 p.m. Boys JV Wrestling @ Chaparral High School 7:00 p.m. Boys Varsity Wrestling @ Chaparral High School

“When me and my sister were younger my parents would always give us gifts, but this year we’re all going to exchange gifts, even my dog.” Amy Michelson ‘12.

“On the last day of Hanukuh we get one present and eat potato latkas.” Parker Benson’14

“I’m going to chill with my friends and family and just enjoy the snow! “ Thomas Moran ‘14

First Day Back at School

3 5:30 p.m.Girls JV Basketball vs. Smoky Hill High School 6:30 p.m. After Prom Meeting 7:00 p.m. Girls Varsity Basketball vs. Smoky Hill High School

4:00 p.m. Girls Varsity Swimming @ George Washington High School 6:00PM B JV Wrestling @ Ponderosa 7:00 p.m. B V Basketball vs. Rampart High school 7:30 p.m. B V Wrestling @ Ponderosa

“Every Christmas Eve we get to open one present, and every year, I get a nutcracker from my Grandma.” Sydney Falzarano ‘15

CHSAA no practice days 2

Boys Varsity Basketball vs. Boys Basketball Winter Shootout Boys Freshman Basketball @ CHAP Freshman Tournament

5:30 p.m. Boys Freshman Basketball vs. Heritage 7:00p.m. Boys JV Basketball vs. Heritage 7p.m. Boys JV Basketball vs. Heritage 7p.m. Boys Sophomore Basketball vs. Heritage

30 “My new year’s resolution is to do better in math and get better grades!” John Wilson ‘14

6 3:00 p.m. Boys Freshman Basketball @ Thomas Jefferson High School 4:30 p.m. Boys Sophomore Basketball @ Thomas Jefferson High School 6:00 p.m. Boys JV Basketball @ Thomas Jefferson High School 7:00 p.m. Boys Varsity Basketball @ Thomas Jefferson High School 7:30 p.m. Boys Varsity Basketball vs. Thomas Jefferson High School

SUNDAY 17

Boys Varsity Basketball vs. Boys Basketball Winter Shootout TBA Boys Varsity Wrestling @ Horizon High School Girls Swimming @ OPEN DATE (Coaches Invite) 8 a.m. Boys JV Wrestling @ Valor Christian

“ Feel like I’m in a rush during finals wee to get in all my late work and getting ready for finals.” Julia Hennings ‘15

“Every Christmas Eve, my family and I attend our church’s midnight service. We like to be awake right when Christmas starts” Sarah Rosenkrans ‘13

Christmas

“I wake everyone up at 5; my dad takes an hour to come downstairs. When he comes downstairs we open presents while watching The Christmas Story Marathon on TBS.” Maddie Jones ‘12

CHSAA no practice days

“I’m going to the Flux and Doctor P. concert on New Year’s Eve because it’s something new ” Jenn Burton ‘12

Girls Varsity Swimming @ Valor Christian 8 a.m. Boys Varsity Wrestling @ Legend Dual

Top 10 New Years Resloutions

1. Diet 2. Quit Smoking 3. Exercise 4. Be responsible 5. Stop Procrastinating 6. Save Money 7. Go to Church 8. Wake up early 9. Stop Cursing 10. Read newspaper

End of Kwanzaa

“Winter Holiday rule was put in many years ago because we [CHSSA] did not believe there should be practice Dec. 24 -Jan.” Bert Borgmann Assistant Commissioner for CHSAA

End of Hanukkah

26 Kwanzaa was started in 1966 as a non-religious holiday that begins on the 26th of December ends on the 1st of January each year. Kwanzaa colors are red and black.

“I Iike Hanukkah because of the food, spending time with my family, and that it’s spread out more than one day.” Hannah Banks ‘12

SATURDAY 16

22 Start of Hanukkah

Girls Varsity Basketball @ Girls Varsity @ NIKE Tournament PHX Boys Freshman Basketball @ Chaparrall

4:00 p.m. Girls Swimming and Diving @ Heritage 5:30 p.m. Girls JV Basketball @ Chatfield 7:00 p.m. Girls Varsity Basketball @ Chatfield High School

Start of Kwanzaa

WEDNESDAY

TUESDAY

Winter Break

MONDAY

23 [12/09/11]

“The first week back is hectic. 8 Every body is changing classes.” Kelly Grega ‘13 “We are a little more lenient this year with schedule changes, but it depends on the student’s situation.” Dan Davies Counselor

*If you would like an event or activity included in our next calendar, please e-mail Lauren Scheirman at scheirmanlr@gmail.com

1. Brittney Evanson ‘12 decorates her tree the day after Thanksgiving a tradition in her house. 2.Amy Michelson’12 lights her Menorah, one is light for eachday of Hanukkah. 3. Christmas lights have started to appear on houses and trees. Look for the six best neighborhoods to look at lights in The Rock’s Holiday special

[12/09/11]

Kindness at RCHS Counter clockwise from left: Brianna Bradley ‘15 shows off her words of kindness to her friend Emilee Steinmetz ‘15 during 6th period Earth and Enviromental Science Tuesday Nov. 29. “ I was really happy it, made me feel good that someone cares,”Bradley said. Caydan Champine ‘15 takes his environmental science test 6th period. “I think it’s cool that other students take time to write kind words for other people,”Champine said. Starting from left Riley Hayes ‘14 Lexy Thordson ‘14, Erin McClare’14, Nancy Hunt ‘12, and Chloe

Thordoson ‘12 sort out the words of kindness letters so they can be sent out to students during their 6th period. Chains of kindness hang in the hall with positive messages and students’pledges to be kinder and accept Rachels challenge. The chains were written on by the advise classes. StuCo then put them up Thursday Nov. 17 after school. Tyler Wagstaff ‘12 and Ryan Boryla ‘13 write classroom numbers on cards, so they can be delivered during 6th period.

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Challenge Accepted Students take a break from their usual days to hear a touching story of a girl with lofty aspirations to change the world When Rachel Joy Scott was killed on April 20th, 1991 at Columbine High School, she left us with a challenge. Her lifelong dream was to touch the hearts of others through works of kindness and compassion. She believed that she would be able to start a chain reaction and effect the lives of people all over the world. Even though Rachel only spent 17 years on this earth, she left us with something that would change people all over the world for years and years on end. Her dream has been fulfilled. When Rachel’s Challenge came to talk to Rock Canyon, many students lives were touched. “It really got to me,” said Aubrey Eggett ‘12, “When her brother talked about how big of an influence Rachel had had on his life, it made me think of my little brother and how he inspires me every day. I looked over at him while I was thinking this and found him smiling back at me. I burst into tears.” Aubrey wasn’t the only one who found themselves crying by the end of the assembly. “When we closed our eyes and had to think of people that

[laurenscheirman]

we love, I lost it.” admitted Mia Piccolotti ‘13. The speaker aroused many emotions with the various videos and stories he shared. The message really encouraged students to break out of their comfort zone and make Rachel’s dream a reality. “At lunch after the assembly, a student that I didn’t really know helped out one of my friends by picking up his water bottle for him. My friend didn’t even think to say thank you; instead he actually laughed at the kid who tends to sit by himself,” shared Tori Pavillard ‘15, “I told them to go over and say thank you. They did, but they continued to make fun of him. So I grabbed my lunch, left the table, and went to sit with him.” Even though we may not realize, there are negative attitudes at Rock Canyon that cause some students to feel alone and isolated. It is our job to suffocate these negatives attitudes with positives ones that are filled with kindness and compassion. Rachel would expect nothing less from us. [virginiavaughan]