March 2012 by Montezuma-Cortez High School

What Lies Within...

Art Show

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Mildred and Myrtle

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Daylight Savings

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Panther Press

The voice of Montezuma-Cortez High School

206 W. Second Street, Cortez, CO 81321

March 2012 Volume 12: Issue 6

Did you wait for prince charming? 2012-13 Abby Lock, Managing Editor

M-CHS senior co- leader of the March is a month of women’s hisdécor was simple yet nice,” CandeStudent Leadership Committee, tory that M-CHS began with a spelaria said. said. Candelaria was adamant cial dance honoring the power of This year’s Sadie Hawkins dance that the “ladies ask guys out!” women: the Sadie Hawkins dance. wasn’t the first. In fact, “the last one It originated from a comic strip Photo by Chirstina Stevens was three years ago. For called “Li'l Abner” in four years in a row, the which the town of Dogvolleyball team hosted patch celebrates a holiit and they usually did it day when women chase around St. Patrick’s Day,” the most eligible bacheDebra Ramsey, the Mlors around the town in CHS Secretary said. hopes of marrying their The students should also love interest. Sadie thank the chaperones for Hawkins’ (one of “Li’l their time at the dance: Abner’s” most beloved Mr. Rice, Mr. Lankford, characters) endless Ms. Olsen, Ms. Rime, and pursuit of her prince Ms. Ramsey. In addition charming inspired high to the staff, the DJ, Lindy schools and colleges to Rucker, “did an excellent honor her and women’s job,” said Stephen Candeempowerment with Students performing the Electric Slide laria. Sadie Hawkins dances The Sadie Hawkins dance “should Sadie Hawkins was a test of fesince 1937. The long-lasting rule happen every single year,” said male audacity at M-CHS. Invitof these dances is that the woman Candelaria. The student governing a date “wasn’t very fun. I was must invite the man. ment seems to have more fundnervous. I didn’t really do anyOn Friday, March 2nd at 7 p.m. raising up their sleeves; according thing special to ask him,” freshthe M-CHS Sadie Hawkins dance to Victoria Stanley, an M-CHS seman Nicole Demby said. was held in the commons, where nior co-leader of the Student LeadAccording to Candelaria the 62 individuals danced the night ership Committee, “we [Student M-CHS student council’s $425 away until 11 p.m. Leadership Committee] are going profit was donated to the AmeriThe guys seemed to enjoy a reto be having more relay for life and can Cancer Society. The decoraprieve from the pressure of inviting American Cancer society events. tions were minimal in an effort to a female date. It was “kind of cool We’re getting T-shirts made. So maximize the contribution to the to be the one being asked instead of there’s more to come!” American Cancer Society: “the the asker,” Stephen Candelaria, an

The results are in Krissey Gonzales, Business Manager

The results are in; the delegate votes have been made and the placements on the primary republican ballot have been placed for County Commissioner District 2, County Commissioner District 3, and the 22nd Judicial District Attorney. Running for District 2 was Pat DeGagne Rule, wife of current chair holder Larrie Rule, retired telephone company worker, Creston “Bud” Garner, Keenan Ertel, of Ertel Funeral Home and Crematory, and Stuart Hanold, local Pastor and Director of the Dolores Chamber of Commerce. According to the Cortez Journal, results are as follows: Ertel: 67 delegate votes Garner: 30 delegate votes

DeGagne-Rule: 26 delegate votes Hanold: 5 delegate votes The Journal stated that Ertel will definitely be placed on the Republican Primary ballot and DeGagne-Rule and Garner will have to petition in order to be placed on the ballot, Hanold did not obtain enough votes to be a part of the election. District 3 candidates included, Dewayne Findley, owner of Aspen Wall Wood Plant, Casey McClellan, owner of McStone Aggregates, and Tim Hunter, owner of Environmental Designs. As reported by the Journal, results are as follows: Findley: 63 delegate votes McClellan: 39 delegate votes Hunter: 26 delegate votes Findley and McClellan will be placed

on the primary ballot and Hunter will need to petition to join the ballot. Candidates for the 22nd Judicial District Attorney include, William Furse, Russell Wasley, and Keith Mandelski. As reported by the Journal, results are as follows: Furse: 80 delegate votes Wasley: 39 delegate votes Mandelski: 20 delegate votes Furse will be put on the primary ballot, while Mandelski and Wasley will have to petition to be put on. As these candidates battle it out for District 2 seat, District 3 seat, and 22nd Judicial District Attorney, their central concern is to improve the community as a whole and appease its citizens to the best of their ability.

unknown schedule

Panther Press Staff Recently, it was decided that the four day week would not return next year, and the five day week will take its place. This board decision has caused much controversey within the community. Administration has yet to decide the upcoming schedule. The debate is between a four by four block schedule, with no split block, and a seven period day. Although the teachers have voted for the block, the decision for this will be made when a new principal is hired this month.

Four states ag expo Miceal Allsup, Staff Reporter

The Four States Agricultural Exposition of 2012 will be occurring in Cortez yet again. The Ag Expo, while fun for all ages, has a different function than just entertaining people. It has a proud history of keeping agriculture modern in Cortez. Bringing together the best of products, services, clinicians, and speakers, it moves the agriculture industry forward each year. The Ag Expo’s sole purpose is to raise awareness of the importance of agriculture, not only in the town in which we live, but in the region, nation, and in the world. Each year the expo is held at the Cortez, Colorado’s Montezuma County Fairgrounds. This event will be happening from Thursday, March 15th, through Sunday, March 18th, and will be open to everyone. Exhibits will open at 9 A.M. on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday, and close at 5 P.M., and on Sunday, the exhibits will open at 9 A.M., but close at 3 P.M. The cost of admission will be five dollars per day, paid at the gate, or a fourday pass can be bought for fifteen dollars. Admission for children ages 15 years and under and parking are free.

Press 02 Panther M 2012

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Smoke, flames, and saving lives

Anthony Hodge, Staff Reporter Here at M-CHS, Mrs. Lori Mott offers a variety of classes if students want to be a firefighter, EMT, or work in the medical field. Her classes are CERT, first responder, fire science, and EMT. These classes have to be taken in order starting with CERT and ending with EMT. In Mrs. Mott's CERT (Community Emergency Response Team), she teaches the basic skills that are important to know in a disaster when emergency services are not available. Various emergency service careers can be explored. “I am taking CERT classes because I want to go into the medical field,” said freshman Gus Lukas. Some of the topics included are CPR (Cardio Pulmonary Resuscitation), search and rescue, work traits required for the emergency services field, the fundamentals of safety, and communications. In First Responder, Mrs. Mott provides the students with the core knowledge and skills to function in the capacity of the first responder arriving at the scene of an emergency, providing supportive care until advanced EMS (Emergency Medical Services) help arrives. Students will learn duties, responsibilities, and legal aspects of the first responder as well as skill development, patient in assessment, AHA (American heart association) Healthcare Provider CPR, and first- aid measures.

The next class to take is fire science. Fire science is the introductory level in firefighting skills. Topics include fundamentals of safety, communications, behavior of fire, protective equipment, ladders and hoses, water supply, ropes and knots, physical fitness, career opportunities, organization, and function of public fire protection services as a part of a local government. Last but not least, there is EMT-Basic (Emergency Medical Technician). EMT-Basic will teach the student the knowledge of the emergency medical field including duties, responsibilities, and legal aspects as well as skill development in CPR, patient assessment, communication, first-aid measures, and the use of emergency medical equipment. Upon successful completion of this course, the student will be able to take the EMT certification subject to the requirements of the Colorado Department of Health & Environment, which includes written and practical examinations. Only seniors and/or 18 year-olds can take this test. “The best part of taking these classes is you’ll have the knowledge to save someone’s life,” said freshman Keyan Reeves. The fire and emergency classes can teach an individual a lot that he or she may need to know to be in that field of work. Every class completed will help the student understand how to reduce the loss of life and property in any disaster. “I was already a teacher when I found I had a passion for firefighting. I started as a volunteer with Cortez Fire in 2000. At that time there were no paid firefighting opportunities in Cortez. I am very fortunate to be able to combine my favorite careers, teaching EMS, and firefighting, I love to be able to share my enthusiasm for helping others with high school students and hopefully inspire them to follow a pathway to a successful career,” said Fire & emergency instructor Mrs. Mott.

Ar t you that ar tist? Wyatt Ha, Staff Reporter

Created by Sarah Lewis

Drawn by Ahanabah Finley

Photo by Kearra Boggs

As of March 8, 2012 the art show opened up at the Cortez Cultural Center. All of the art at the show was created by students from M-CHS. For the opening night, all the students that had art work in the show were invited to stand next to their art work and watch as their parents and colleagues looked at their creations. The art students dressed up in their nicest clothes and they had a snack bar set up with beverages and desserts, all of which were brought by the students for opening night. Some of the students had more than one piece included in the show. When asked what inspired the art students to create their pieces, they answered with the simplest reasons to be inspired, like Sarah Lewis, who stated, “I was

inspired by bras.” But of course there were even more complex reasons to be inspired, such as God or other countries. Ms. Bane, art teacher, and all the students in the N.A.H.S (National Art Honers Society) worked hard in making this event happen. “I got here at ten by myself. I started setting all the art on the floor where I think it should go and didn’t put anything up until the N.A.H.S got here to help me out.” Ms. Bane stated. So don’t let the N.A.H.S’s and Ms. Bane’s hard work have been in vain, go check it out and take a look at M-CHS’s best artwork. The art show is free and it will be going on at the Cultural Center until March 16th. Take a look and support our art students.

New technology for books Zachary Smouse, Staff Reporter

In 2007, books were transformed into an electronic version instead of having hardbacks or paperbacks. Books contain information that gives you insight into the history of the world or they could let you go inside a new dimension of life. According to www.educause.edu, students develop the ability to write original, thesis-driven, well-structured academic essays. The California Lutheran University used the e-readers to help the pilot students achieve this objective. The result, according to the instructor, was that their papers were more thorough and more detailed than the usual English 111 papers. Students used e-readers in class to read, discuss, highlight, and take notes on specific passages. As they developed their note taking and summary skills, the students created a body of material and saved it in the e-reader’s storage space for notes and highlights. If every school had classroom e-

textbooks, there would not be as e-reader in students’ hands at lower many lost textbooks and the school price points, they may become popwould save more money on having ular enough to render regular textbooks. According to www.distance- books obsolete. People are switching over to eleceducation.org, the Kindle might be the hottest new thing in publishing, tronic books and even though some but it’s too early to tell whether it people like to feel the turning of the paper in traditional will make books, the electronsignificant ic ones are easier inroads in to handle and read. the college When kids have to market. The read schoolbooks price tag and textbooks at may be limhome, e-books will iting its apbe essential bepeal—many cause they won’t students be carrying heavy may find it books. “It would hard to jusPhoto credit to Google be nice! No more tify spending $250 to $300 or even more all heavy books,” stated an M-CHS Acat once on a single gadget, even Senior, Myranda Johnson. if they’ll see savings in textbooks cording to www.electronics.howlater—especially when there are stuffworks.com, some e-readers are already other ways to significantly just that – devices dedicated to discut textbook expenditures and they playing digital books, newspapers already have a laptop. But if Ama- and magazines. Examples include zon.com can find a way to get an Amazon’s Kindle, the Sony Read-

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er, Borders’ Kobo, and Barnes and Noble’s Nook. Some dedicated ereaders offer Internet connectivity and other high-end functionality, but their main purpose is to display e-books, which they generally do very well. “Still, there’s nothing like the tactile pleasure of a book in hand. For all my pleasure reading I still choose traditional books first. They are easier to navigate and the sensual dimension of books is not to be underestimated,” an M-CHS English teacher, Paul Koops said. Would there be improved test scores if students had e-textbooks? “Electronic books are just a tool for learning. They are not inherently better than other learning tools. We should use them to enhance learning, but let’s not make the mistake of worshipping the tool,” stated Mr. Koops. No matter how much books advance, we will still have the same book, whether it’s an electronic book or a regular one.

A day of learning outside of M-CHS

Christina Stevens, Assistant Publisher/Business Manager Every year, Media Day is held at Colorado Mesa University (CMU) in Grand Junction, CO. and M-CHS Panther Press students get to go and enjoy the entertainment. This year, at the 22nd annual Media Day, M-CHS, Grand Junction, Montrose, Roaring Fork, Cedaredge, Caprock Academy, Palisade, Fruita Monument, Grand Valley High, Delta and R-5 schools got to attend and experience college life and enjoy the workshops CMU staff and students put together. Why travel four hours on a bus? The students had a new learning experience out of the M-CHS environment and they had the chance to meet new people who learn a different way. Over the years, Professor Dan Flenniken, Professor of Mass Communications stated “I think Media

Photo taken by Kristin Campbell

Students enjoy lunch at Mesa University during Media Days.

Day has been a success, yet every year we learn something new. We are going to try to have more “hands on” sessions next year – for writing, editing, photography, video production and audio. We also may try to have a summer media camp- to al-

low more time to teach and give additional time in our media labs.” Students enjoyed many sessions including: Photoshop and editing workshops, make your words count, when great photos make bad news, editors and advisors meeting, and

radio broadcasting question and answer panel. “My favorite session was when great photos make bad news because debating is always interesting to watch” Brandi Avon, a staff reporter on the Panther Press said. Awards given were co-sponsored by The Daily Sentinel and Colorado Mesa University’s Mass Communications department. Unfortunately, the Panther Press didn’t send in the category they wanted to participate in and didn’t receive any awards at that time; however, Panther Press placed 3rd in best overall newspaper in the large school division. Other schools that attended the event took home awards including: best overall year book, sports photography, feature writing editorial writing, and school page design.

04 Panther Press M 2012

Sports

A homerun for M-CHS baseball arch

Cheyanne Sam, Staff Reporter

As the season shifts into spring, the fall sports come to an end and it is time for M-CHS’s spring sports to commence. Tennis, track, soccer, and baseball are the four new sports to cycle into M-CHS. This baseball season will Photo by Google Images be Sam Perry’s second year as the coach of the baseball team. “This year’s team is the best I’ve ever seen,” Coach Perry said. “We have assembled the finest group of players in the history of women’s underwater whiffle ball,” He joked about this season’s baseball team. With the new year comes fresh players starting for the Panthers. “This season’s beginning players are head and shoulders above the rest,” Perry said when asked about the new players. Coach Perry later teased the players by saying, “We stole, that is, recruited two girls from last year’s World Champion professional team who are over seven feet tall and the rest of the new girls had some kind of freakish growth spurt over Christmas break.” Last season was a 5-13 campaign

and the Panthers are ready to go out and steal every tournament this season. Pitchers Chris Black and Ryan Haley left the Panthers when they moved on to college, but have been replaced with new and determined athletes. Most players will have a chance to pitch at some point in the season to acquire a sense of it. “Our biggest weakness is that we just don’t know when to quit,” Perry said about the team. “The game is over, we’re still playing. It starts to take a toll on the physical and mental well-being of the players when you keep playing into the night like that,” Coach Perry said. “Last year’s team was only a State Championship team; this year’s team is going to be Olympic champions as well,” Perry joked again with much enthusiasm.“I’m honored to have the privilege of coaching such a fine group,” said Coach Perry. Hopefully, the stands will be full at the next game with more support, and Cortez residents and students cheering on the team. With the new players entering the field with a postive attitude and a firedup coach, this season will surely be a score.

Rackets and miniskirts take the court

Miceal Allsup, Staff Reporter

Another spring has arrived, bringing with it spring sports. Tennis seems to have a confident team. Last year, the varsity doubles team went to state and the junior varsity teams gained a lot of learning experience out of the games they played. This year’s varsity players have been putting in extra time to practice, and are very focused and determined to bring home a medal this year. Junior Emily Walck appears confident in of all the players. “We have a really good team,” she said, giving credit to the coach, Dan Wood. “There’s a positive energy when he’s on the court. All of us enjoy him,” Walck said, also adding that the coach’s good qualities include his ability to be encouraging, supportive, and able to talk

-Photo by Google Images

things through and help out players on an individual level, creating a strong team bond. Dan Wood is enthusiastic for the upcoming season, and hopes to succeed in increasing each girls’ individual skill and confidence. The team’s players includes experienced seniors and eager freshmen who are new to the sport but are excellent athletes. Coach Wood described this wide range of both skills and personalities as “a great blend.” The team had their first matches on the weekend of the 10th, with the junior varsity and varsity teams, and will end at regionals in Grand Junction. With a supportive and understanding coach helping them during practices, these hard-working and devoted girls are determined to bring home a prize this season.

Panther Press

Sticks & stones: Verbal abuse at M-CHS

P a n t h e r

Josh Maes, Editor-in-Chief

“You idiot!” “Why are you even here?” “Don’t even look at me, you creeper!” These are the types of slanderous remarks I heard one day as I sat in class doing my work. They weren’t directed at a bad person. The victim wasn’t at fault, didn’t deserve the harsh remarks he received. His only “crime” was that he was different, or rather, misunderstood. My skin crawled as the insults flew. “Leave him alone!” my mind screamed. “Don’t you know that he is a human being, someone who matters? What makes you think that you’re any better than him? How could you treat anyone with such cruelty?” In spite of my thoughts, I sat quietly by and listened as my fellow classmate took the verbal beating, one that he didn’t deserve, one

that he most likely received far too often. I regret saying nothing as the poor soul sat, trying his best to defend himself against the verbal onslaught to no avail. Perhaps standing up against the antagonists wouldn’t have done any good. Perhaps calling out the wrong of the oppressors would have turned their insults on me rather than my poor, misunderstood classmate, but at least the truth would have been proclaimed: at least my classmate would have known that he was not alone. It wouldn’t surprise me if many students at M-CHS have encountered verbal bullying, perhaps even cyber bullying. We know what’s right. We know that it isn’t under any circumstances acceptable to belittle our fellow man and we know that it is against school policy. But why do we stand by and let the insults fly? Maybe we don’t want to be labeled an outcast along with the verbally abused. Rather than protect the innocent, we protect our reputations. But in the long run, what does it matter? Does it really matter what someone thinks of us if we are standing up for what we know is true, what we know is right? Does the opinion of a person—someone we will most likely

never see again after four years— truly matter at all? Perhaps we don’t care if we’re labeled an outcast. Maybe we just struggle with speaking up. Maybe we keep quiet because we don’t have some grandiose speech prepared for every time we encounter bullies, we should just keep our mouths shut. The truth is, saying something is better than nothing at all: respectfully telling the tormentor to stop, telling a teacher, anything that will put a stop to the hateful remarks. I’m sure everyone at M-CHS has been a part of this story, whether as the bystander, the bully, or the abused. If you have been picked on, know that what bullies have said isn’t true: you are equal with everyone else in this world and you are not worthless; and, my deepest apologies if I have ever stood by while you were being wronged by another classmate. If you have been the bully in the past, I would like to encourage you to change. There may be people who are different from you, who you don’t like. However, that gives you no right to cut anyone down. And finally, if you are the bystander, as I have been in the past, please take action. We may never know the detrimental effects slander may have on a person before it

is too late. Many bullied students may take rash actions as one seventeen-year-old boy from Chardon High School in Ohio did on February 27th this year. According to medscape.com, the student walked into the cafeteria that Monday and began shooting his schoolmates killing three and injuring five. The shooter was said to be a victim of bullying which is perhaps part of the reason he chose to take a gun to school and commit this horrible deed. Bullying does excuse what this student did; perhaps if he, who was described “as an ‘outsider and an outcast,’” would have had students reach out to him and stick up for him, this tragic event that cost three people their lives could have been avoided. We need to stand up for what is right and stand up against cruelty against our classmates. Although it is the staff’s responsibility to deal with infractions on school policies, it is impossible for the staff to hear everything we students hear. Therefore, if we encounter bullying, we may be the only ones that can put a stop to it. If we don’t,

no one will.

5 Reasons not to have a 5 day school week Brandi Avon, Staff Reporter

P r e s s

On the night of March 6th, my cell phone blew up with texts, calls, and tons of Facebook notifications: “Did you hear what the school board decided?!” “Can you believe they would do this?” “Goodbye three-day weekend!” Unfortunately, the Montezuma-Cortez School District RE-1 will be forced to attend school five days a week next year. Most of the students and teachers are not happy about this decision. There is discussion of high school students and teachers protesting and possibly organizing a walkout; they want their message to be heard by the school board. The school board seemed to look at the pros to make their decision, obviously; however, I don’t believe they took a close enough look at the cons of a fiveday week. Switching to a five-day school week does have a possible positive outcome. For example, it is possible that state standardized test scores will rise over the next few years. According to the past CSAP scores graph on the district website,

www.cortez.k12.co.us, M-CHS was the only school that dropped in scores dramatically: and by dramatically, I mean about ten percent or lower. But, all of the schools have fallen short of state level, even when we had the five-day school week. On the other hand, Cortez Middle School’s scores have increased in the past two years with the four-day. I have personally talked to teachers from CMS and they are worried about their students’ test scores for this year: “I’m worried they just won’t try. They are being punished by having to go to school an extra day for their scores rising?” an anonymous 6th grade teacher said. She makes a valid point, if students feel unrewarded for their accomplishments, they won’t try; what’s the point? It seems incredibly unfair to the CMS students. Attendance is another issue for the school board. As an overall district, we have only dropped about three percent in average yearly attendance since we switched to the four-day week, three percent! The elementary schools have either stayed the same or have grown in yearly attendance. The most the middle school has dropped is three percent, and the high school has dropped the most of six percent. So, yes, making us go back to a five-day school week might help; although, I don’t believe it will. The reasoning for switching to a four-day school week was to save money; that’s what they tell us. Having a four-day school

Panther Press 2011-2012 Staff & Information Editor-in-Chief Josh Maes Assistant Publisher Christina Stevens Managing Editors Abby Lock Kristin Campbell Business Managers Christina Stevens Krissey Gonzoles Photographer Kearra Boggs

Staff Reporters Anthony Hodge Miceal Allsup Brandi Avon Wyatt Ha Adrian Opsahl Cheyanne Sam Zach Smouse

week did save money on gas: for students, for teachers, and for the school transportation. According to the financial charts on the district website, we’ve saved over 200,000 dollars with the four-day week. Is 200,000 dollars just not enough savings? Maybe it wasn’t, but does it make sense to return to a five-day school week and lose the 200,000 we just saved? That makes absolutely no sense to me! Another upside for the five-day school week is more time after school for studying and student activities, such as band or sports. On the contrary, the kids in activites will be missing more school days. As of right now, they schedule their trips on Fridays through the weekend in order to not miss school. The students will now have to miss extra days and have a ton of makeup work. This puts stress not only on the students, but also on the teachers that have to take extra time to catch the students up. Lastly, I feel like the school board did not take teachers in consideration when they made their desicion. As low as teacher salaries are in Montezuma-Cortez School District, teachers are forced to work second and third jobs; for example, Ms. Carriger (culinary arts teacher from the high school) works at Pepperhead and Mr. Ptaszynski (biology teacher at the high school) works as a fire fighter. Since the school board hasn’t

Want to advertise with the Panther Press? Call our Business Managers at (970) 565 - 3722 Ext. 148 preferably between 7:30 am and 9 am Monday Through Thursday Contact us at: Montezuma-Cortez High School Attn: Panther Press (Deb McVicker) 206 W. 7th St., Cortez, CO 81321

yet agreed to raise teacher salary, our schools may lose amazing teachers. Students could end up with substitutes, inexperienced teachers, and/or teachers who don’t truly care about education or their students. If we lose good teachers, how are our standardized test scores going to rise? If we don’t have teachers that care about us, why would we want to try to raise the attendance? The last two pros I can think of have to do with time. We have a possibility of starting later and ending earlier; additionally, an extra week during summer vacation. Of course it would be awesome to have a whole extra half an hour to sleep in, but, is it really worth another eight hour school day? Personally, I believe it is not worth it. Nearly all of the school board’s points were countered. I truly believe they need to rethink this situation and possibly revote. Their reasonings do not add up with the charts that were provided to the community. I, along with many other people, do not understand their decision.

Opinion

S T A F F E D I T O R I A L

The M-CHS Panther Press is an open forum which RE-1 district policy. The RE-1 school district, board, and staff are not responsible for the

operates under

information and opinions expressed in the

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The Panther Press invites pantherpress@cortez.k12.co.us your letters, comments, and questions. Letters dmcvicker@cortez.k12.co.us will be edited on the basis of content and 970-565-3722x148 conciseness.

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Thumbs Up & Thu

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Thumbs down to the dirty bathrooms! Thumbs up to the M-CHS band!

Thumbs down to all the teachers in the school don’t encourage us to achieve our goals. Instead I feel like they bring us students down making us not want to even try. Thumbs down to the cell phone rule. If the kids want to play on their phone while the teacher is teaching, it’s their own fault and the teachers shouldn’t worry about it. Thumbs down to SWOS getting out of school earlier then we do. If they don't have to go longer, why do we?

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umbs Down

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Thumbs down to the split block. What if I wanted to take two English classes? Jerks! Thumbs down to the dress code, it was perfectly fine last year. Thumbs down to the possibility of a 5 day school week! Thumbs down to the disgusting school food that is somehow supposed to be healthy. Thumbs up to whoever wrote the story about old movies being better than new ones. Thumbs up to the school for their friendly staff and many honorable students who I can trust and get along with. There are lots of hard working people that want the school to succeed and continue on. Also, another thumb up to all the clubs and electives. Thumbs down to all of the drama and picking on others, calling them names and beating up on them.

Mild r e d & My r t l e

M&M I have a problem. Just because I’m a single girl, people think I’m flirting with every guy I talk to! It doesn’t matter how young w old. Ew! Why do people hate? And what do I do?

ely, For all my single ladies

my single ladies, our predicament is so familiar to me; in my younger years, I was the footloose and fancy-free lassie that everyone seemed to Your peers are most likely jealous of your free spirit and they want to bind your name with someone else’s in an attempt to tame My advice to you is to stay true to your amiable personality and disregard the pettiness of others! It only matters what you think rself!

your stick on the ice, -Myrtle

ldred or Myrtle, m having a difficult problem and I don’t know what to do about it. So I is is pretty typical but I’m developing feelings for one of my best guy Normally, I would just tell him, but he totally likes someone else. But, I used because sometimes he sends me signals. He’ll text me that he misscan’t wait to see me. It throws me off because I never thought he would Do you think I should take the chance and tell him? I’m really scared of m. Please give me some good advice. I really need it!

end Problems!

st Friend Problems, Now you see, honey, this is a molasses-sticky situation for sure; of course be the first to say so! If you don’t want to lose him as a companion, you sure to reveal your feelings in small ways. Maybe that’s what he’s doing testing the love waters with his signals before leaping into them! If he detect your signals, maybe he’s not quite as love-struck with you as you him. However, there is also the possibility that he is a typical man; they be as unaware of affection as my deaf and blind cat (good ol’Chester). ely, he will want to know if he is misleading your heart; if he’s the type chilly shoulder to you after you admit your feelings for him, he surely r true friend. Have a little faith in yourself, honey!

Yours till ice skates, -Myrtle

Dear Mildred and Myrtle, My best friend since grade seven and I both met these guys in grade eight, but only began dating them in grade nine. However, I decided to end my relationship after 11 months of dating. During this whole time, my best friend's boyfriend and I became good friends and would go out to lunch together, talk on the phone for hours, and text each other. He gets along great with my family. My best friend expects too much from him and starts unnecessary arguments; they argue all the time over the craziest things that shouldn't even be a bother. She's broken up with him several times and liked other people. She constantly flirts even though she has a boyfriend. He and I have had great times together and talk without her knowing about it. Recently, he asked if I had any feelings for him and I said no, because I wasn't sure how he'd react. I can't get that question out of my head and wonder if he does, too. I know I'm in the wrong, but he's definitely someone I can see myself with. He deserves better and someone who cares about him very much other than constantly causing problems to get attention. I definitely do not want to lose my best friend. -Confused. Dear Confused, Talk to your best friend, silly child! See what her opinion is! Let her know that if she really likes this kid, she needs to show it more! In the olden days, courtship used to be a jolly ol’ time! Let her know that you have feelings for him. I wouldn’t go behind her anymore because it could get worse. So talk to her. Who knows, maybe she is planning to break up with him anyway. It sounds like he does have feelings for you also. So when the time is right, tell him how you feel. You only live once, what can it hurt?! Let me know how it turns out! Things will work out! Best wishes for your future, -Mildred

Press 08Panther M 2012 Student Opinion

Christina Stevens, and Assistant Publisher Out with the teacher forum new, in with Wyatt Ha, 1. Are you interested in politics? Staff Reporter the old 2. Have you heard about the election for the new District 2 City Council? arch

3. If you had a favorite council member/ who is your favorite candidate? 4. Does it matter to you who wins or not? ly ute sol b n 1. A 2. Yes ecided eone i d m the t o en’ get s ss of v a e h ne 3. I tant w aware r o n imp has a unity s ’ t m o 4. I re wh com the

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CC Duran, Junior

m , I a , no s e ner 1. Y nestly d Gar wn to o to u 2. H say B nt this a uld ss wo use I w a bo I . e 3 ca ik , be e ran l s e b 4. Y

1. N r rea o, I have lly ca re polit d much f i or cs 2 . No, 3. I could don’t kno I have no t wa n’t 4. Ye make an ny of the s m so i nfo perso , it does . We rmed dec I n wh shou ision o ha does s Cortez ld have a i the b est fo n mind an r us d neve

Zach Frizzel, Senior

The Garbage

In the twenty-first century, the movies are poorly made. That of course is just my opinion, but I believe that movies made back in the days of 1970s, 1980s, and 1990s are far better than the lame excuses for movies nowadays. I mean, back in those days they had instant classics for everyone no matter what type of movie you like. For those action lovers, they had movies like Die Hard, Terminator, and Lethal Weapon, all of which had enough action to blow up a billion buildings. If you liked romance, then they had movies like When Harry Met Sally and Sleepless in SeRaymond Harriman, attle. Both brought tears to my M-CHS social studies eyes, but I guess I’m just a hopeteacher less romantic. If horror is your thing, then the whole Alfred Hitchcock collection should do. If you want to laugh, then try watching the Police Academy movies. As for those sci-fi lovers, the late 1970s and the early 1980s had the original first three Star Wars movies. If that’s not enough, I don’t know what is. I mean, honestly, is there a nerd alive that can say the three new Star Wars movies are better than the classic old ones? But before I go on one of my little Star Wars tangents I should get to the point. The point is that old movies are far better than any new movie, Jordan Miller, and the list of classic movies just Sophomore goes on and on no matter what type of movie genre you like. So, what happened? What changed between the 1990s and the 2000s? Logically, movies should be better than before. I mean, now we have better technology advancements for movies including realD 3D and better special effects than ever before. For me, it’s the terrible story plots; all the movie plots by Adrian Opsahl have been used, or at least all the good ones anyways. I’ll admit that I have seen a few movies made in this decade that have been alright. But I haven’t seen a movie that was made in the 2000s that I just knew would b e a movie that would last fore v e r. So, as a personal

recommendation, go out today and watch one of the movies above or a movie that was made twenty years ago, because I swear to you it will most likely be one of the best movies that you have ever seen.

S e i z e

Kristin Campbell, Managing Editor

t h e

D a y l i g h t

Daylight Saving Time (DST) is the time of year that some embrace and others dislike. The time change is accepted throughout most of the country. Why does the United States do this? Invented by entomologist G.V. Hudson of New Zealand, DST urges the public to see the importance of daylight hours. The time change “springs forward” the standard time (ST) in order to shave off one morning hour and add it to the evening. It also saves energy and oil. The first DST bill in the US was enacted on March 19, 1918 to preserve daylight and provide citizens a standard time. Today, the change is observed by most of the US, most of Canada, Mexico, the European Union, some of Australia and New Zealand and South America, and several countries in the Middle East and Africa. In the United States, Hawaii, Arizona (With the exception of the Navajo Indian Reservation), The American Samoa, Guam, Puerto Rico, and The US Virgin Islands do not observe DST. This time shift saves energy. Many people plan activities in the long evening and often leave their homes. The amount of people outdoors lowers the amount of energy used during that time indoors. Oil also decreases in use and people walk around or work outdoors. The time

change actually starts at 2 A.M. to minimize inconveniences with railways, restaurants, and bars. Originally, DST ended before November’s first Sunday. Due to a trend of traffic accidents on Halloween that involved children, the time was extended to allow more light for trick-or-treaters.

For more information about DST, visit this source: www.webexhibits.org

For more information about how DST affects sleep, please visit: articles.courant. com

-Lee Hansen Graphics

Last year, there was a proposed bill to end Daylight Saving Time in Colorado and have the state always use Standard Time, just like our border state, Arizona, does. The bill did not pass, however, so Colorado still observes DST. This year, DST starts on March 11th and ends on November 4th. With TCAP and other tests and prepa-

news

This Month In rations, the necessary adjustments to a History Kristin Campbell, Managing Editor student’s sleep schedule may hinder performance. According to the Journal of Neuroscience, Psychology and Economics found that the biannual time change caused a shocking 16-point drop in SAT scores. There is an 8% increase in traffic accidents and 6% increase in heart attacks in the days following the springtime transition, according to Canadian and Swedish researchers, respectively. With such stunning effects on performance, it isn’t hard to understand why some people do not like the daylight saving time transitions. Opinions on DST vary within the school. “It’s a waste of my time, and they need to take it out. Let time be time.” Adrina Peterson, a freshman, said. Freshman Anakay Hanold, however, does not agree, stating “I guess it saves daylight, Yeah!” Some members of the school can be on either side. “I love it in the fall when I gain an hour of sleep,” English teacher, Paul Koops, stated, “And I hate it in the spring because I lose an hour of sleep. Because life is about sleep.” Most students can probably agree with that last part. Daylight Saving Time is a time with mixed opinions and sleepless people that has been around for a long time. Prepare to change the clocks and spring ahead an hour.

February Issue Correction: Re-1 Hires a New Leader Kristin Campbell, Managing Editor A correction concerning “Re-1 Hires a Leader” in the February 2012 issue of the Panther Press:

Panther Press

Mary Rubadeau is the interim superintendent, not the permanent replacement. We are sorry for any inconvenience.

March 3rd 1931-Star Spangled Banner Becomes National Anthem The Star Spangled Banner was written by Francis Scott Key on the dawn of September 14, 1814, after he saw that the United States flag had not been lowered in defeat by the British Royal Navy. Originally a poem, the Star Spangled Banner was put to the tune of “The Anacreontic Song” by composer John Stafford Smith and became the song known today. Following popular demand, especially after a moving performance of the song at the 1917 World Series Baseball game and games thereafter, Congress finally announced the Star Spangled Banner as the national anthem. For more more information see source: http:// kids.niehs.nih.gov/games/songs/patriotic/anthemmid.htm

March 7th 1836- The End of the Battle of the Alamo The Battle of the Alamo was a siege by Santa Anna of Mexico on the Texans. The Alamo was an old Catholic mission that was the stronghold of the Texans during the battle. After putting up a good fight, the Texans finally succumbed to the force of the Mexican Army. The odds were 16:1 against the Texans. Santa Anna ordered the Texans’ bodies burned. The Battle of the Alamo is one of the, if not the absolute, most wellknown event in Texas history. For more information see source: https://www. tsl.state.tx.us/treasures/republic/alamo-01.html

March 9th 1945- Anne Frank Dies Well known for her diary, her confidant in which she wrote her fears, hopes, and dreams, Anne Frank is known around the world. Born a Jewish girl in Germany during Nazi occupation, Anne hid with her family and four others in a Dutch apartment for two years. After an anonymous tip, the hidden group was arrested. Anne Frank and her older sister Margot died of Typhus in the Bergen-Belsen camp, two months after their mother passed in January. For more information see source: http://www.

annefrank.org/

March 14th 1879- Albert Einstein Born in Ulm, Germany Albert Einstein can be considered the most well-known scientist in the world. Famous for his Theory of Relativity, Einstein also worked on quantum theory. As a child, Einstein was always interested in the invisible forces behind the world. He spent much time thinking. Einstein felt that imagination and thinking were quite important. “Imagination is more important than knowledge…” –Albert Einstein. For more information see source: http://www. britannica.com/EBchecked/topic/181349/AlbertEinstein

March 22nd 1895- First Cinematic Movie Show to an Audience in Paris Frenchman Louis Lumiere created the first projecting camera, named the Cinematographe. It was the first motion picture device to show films to more than one person at a time. The device became incredibly popular. Ironically, Lumiere went into still photography, stating that motion pictures had no future. Movies are a huge deal today. In 2011 alone, the box office earned approximately $10,172,900,000. The current box office earning for 2012 is $1,620,800,000. Thanks to the Cinematographe, cinema is a big part of worldwide media. For more information see source: http://inventors.about.com/library/inventors/blmotionpictures.htm

Press 10Panther M 2012

Lifestyle

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Drugs in M-CHS Anthony Hodge, Staff reporter

Many people think that abusing prescription drugs is safer than abusing illegal drugs like heroin because the manufacturing of prescription drugs is regulated or because they are prescribed by doctors. But that doesn’t mean these drugs are safe for someone other than the person with the prescription to use the drug. “Yes, of course there are tons of drugs at school and in my community,” said Keyan Reeves. Many prescription drugs can have powerful effects in the brain and body and people sometimes take them in ways that can be just as dangerous (crushing pills and snorting or injecting them) as illicit drug abuse. In fact, opioid painkillers act on the same sites in the brain as heroin, which is one reason why they can be so dangerous when abused. Also, abusing prescription drugs is illegal and that includes sharing prescriptions with friends. According to oxyabusekills. com, “Chronic use of Vicodin can cause you to build a tolerance, therefore you will have to take more and more to get the same effect as the first time.” There are long term effects with abusing this drug. Usually by the time an abuser seek professional treatment, the damage is so severe that there is no way to reverse it. This can result in many health problems later in life, even if the addict stops using the drug. The long-term effects of Vicodin addictions could include heart

problems, liver issues and loss of brain cells over time. Symptoms of withdrawal from this drug include restlessness, muscle and bone pain, insomnia, diarrhea, vomiting, cold flashes with goose bumps, involuntary leg movements, watery eyes, runny nose, loss of appetite, irritability, panic, nausea, chills, and sweating. Teens.drugabuse.gov says “When an individual takes these prescription drugs that are prescribed to a person, he/she doesn’t get addicted because a doctor prescribes a medication based on an individual’s need—each patient is examined for symptoms and receives a dose of medication that will treat the problem effectively and safely. Typically, prescription drugs are taken in a form (e.g., a pill) that doesn’t allow for rapid absorption of the drug by the brain and at a dosage that treats the problem but doesn’t overwhelm the system—both of which reduce the likelihood of addiction.” Pills can be very addicting and life threatening. “Yes, I have seen people buy, sell, and do drugs on school ground,” said freshman Keyan Reeves. A user can overdose just once and his/her life could be over. Abusing any type of drug, and not using it for medical purposes can not only get you in trouble with your school, but also with the federal law. The smartest way around this is to just say “no.”

Got sex... education?

Anthony Hodge, Staff reporter

Most students know the basics about sexual intercourse, but should they have a sex education class? Many students and teachers support having a sex education class at high schools. However, some still are against it. “I have taken a sexual education class before but it didn’t teach me anything new,” Caleb Milligan said. As growing up is a part of life, sexual intercourse is a decision. “Sex was my personal decision and I made it to home base,” an anonymous junior said. Some students wouldn’t want to take a sex-ed class even if it was offered because they would be nervous about what is said and taught. “I do not want to take a sexual education class because I won’t feel comfortable with what will be taught,” an interviewed freshman said. According to a comprehensive review of sex and HIV programs published by the Natural Campaign to Prevent Teen Pregnancy, “Two thirds of forty eight programs had positive behavioral effects.” Ninety nine percent of Americans believe it is appropriate to inform young people about sexually transmitted infections (STIs) in their high school career, and ninety four percent believe young people should be taught about birth control. “I believe there should be a sex education class because I have taken one before and it informed me better than television or my friends

r a e p p a s i d il

w w o Sn

Call us about energy saving programs! (970) 565-4444 (800) 709-3726

could,” freshman Gus Lukas said. After looking at STI statistics, many people might have a positive outlook about taking a sexual education class. “I believe M-CHS should offer sex-ed classes because it is the student’s decision whether or not he/she wants to take it, and they should know what the risks are,” said Ms. Martucci. Many students here at M-CHS know the difference between abstinence sex and sex education. “I have never sat through a sexed class but have heard that they teach how to use contraceptives. In our W.A.I.T (Why Am I Tempted) training we teach that we need to look at persons as a whole, not just the physical aspect of a person. In our abstinence class we teach that a person is more than physical; they are emotional, social, and spiritual beings,” Anthony Maes, local W.A.I.T Training instructor, said. Out of all the interviewed students more than three-fourths said they know the difference between abstinence and sex education. It’s the individuals’ decision, and he or she has to live with the possible consequences such as, social and emotional problems in men, unwanted pregnancy in unmarried females, and several kinds of sexually transmitted infections. Before that final decision is made, remember the risks involved.

but what about your energy costs ?

Music and learning Cheyanne Sam, Staff reporter

No matter what genre of music students like or dislike, music seems to help most students finish their work, but for other students, music distracts them from completing their work. In 1993, Frances H. Rausher and her team of scientists claimed that after listening to Mozart for ten minutes, had improved normal subjects skills. Mozart’s music supposedly helps relax and lower blood pressure, making work become easier. As years passed, many scientist tried to reproduce the experiment but didn’t get the same results. Rausher believed that the unsuccessful investigations were due to poor procedures. So, does music really help students concentrate? Most teachers at M-CHS let their students listen to music while doing independent work. When teaching a lesson to the whole class, teachers prefer students would not listen to music. If a student's music is playing, he or she would be focusing on the noise blasting through their headphones rather than hearing their teacher talk. Mrs. Martucci has her own opinion on the subject, “It [music] is a distraction for students if one person is listening to their music loudly. Then it’s a battle for me to take the music away from him or her and in the end it just takes away time from class,” she said when asked about her feelings on the matter. If one accepts that music helps get work finished the question now is what kind of music helps brains concentrate. Music that’s slow paced with a gentle beat is recommended for concentrating according to the Journal of the Royal Society of Medicine. The Journal of the Royal Society of Medicine said the music helps pace the mind to study for a big test and for good memory. The Neuroscience of Behavior and Physiology, the Russian Academy of sciences discovered that Rock can help concentrate as well. The scientists at the Russian Academy of sciences also said that the two genres, classical and rock, can help a persons ability to remember number and letter patterns such as math problems. Many people and scientists have mixed feelings about music, even with today’s studies researchers have done on the subject. In the end, what matters is whether or not music does benefit an individual academically and if he or she finds that music does improve performance in school, finding ways to utilize it.

Who took our snow? Adrian Opsahl, Staff Reporter

Many people in Montezuma county may be wondering, “Why was there hardly any snow this winter?” Was it climate change, global warming, or just bad luck? Maybe the government invented a weather machine to prevent us from having snow. Maybe it’s because of odd weather in other places around the globe. Maybe God gave it to more needy countries. Maybe the wind blew it away from us. Maybe it’s a part of or a sign of the ‘apocalypse’ that the Mayans said is supposed to happen this December. Who knows? It appears that many people might know. Weatherspark.com states, “Cortez, Colorado has a humid continental climate with hot summers and no dry season. The average probability that some form of precipitation will be observed in a given day is 32 percent, with little variation over the course of the month. Throughout February, the most common forms of precipitation are light snow and light rain. The likelihood of snow falling in this area is highest around February 3, occurring in 26 percent of days. ” Ac-

cording to snowpak.com, “December was bone dry over nearly the entire West until Christmas. Some snow got through to the Southwest in December, bringing most areas there close to average but only Wolf Creek far above average. During the week of Christmas the Northwest and North-

cause is global warming, and some believe it’s because of El Niño, which, according to noaa.gov, is when sea-surface temperatures are warmer than usual which causes a change in global weather, but some students and teachers at M-CHS had a few other ideas. “There are cycles in the weather and we are in the low moisture part of the cycle,” said an anonymous interviewee. “Cortez is the devil, the apocalypse is nearing,” added an interviewed student. Senior Caleb Branson addPhotos taken by Kearra Boggs,Collage created by Adrian Opsahl ed, “Cortez ern Rockies of both U.S. and Canada is home to some of the hottest peogot three feet of snow, but it remained ple (including myself); therefore, dry farther south. California, Utah the heat makes it hard to snow.” and I-70 Colorado were in the worst Well, the chances are that this winshape in January since at least 1980- ter will remain with little snow, but, 81. Only the Pacific Northwest and it’s slightly possible for the snow to western Canada had normal or bet- come back. This town might end up ter conditions and most of the snow having a snowy spring instead. through the first half of January was in those same regions.” But what is the cause of this? Some students and staff believe the

2011-2012 Ski and Snowboard Club visits Telluride, Colorado Photos taken by Diana Wojciechowski, Collage made by Adrian Opsahl

“It was a blast, we all just kind of did our own thing.” Said Ms. Wojciechowski. Students in collage include, Matthew Daniel, Ford Wagner, Dillon Wells, Si Eckhart, and Brian Davis.

Panther Press

News

Staff Spotlight Kearra Boggs, Staff Reporter/Photographer

Apart from the kids in band, most students at M-CHS are probably not very familiar with the band teacher Mr. Ritthaler, but that’s not to say he doesn’t play a very important role in his students’ lives. Last year he was nominated by Jessica Dorenkamp for the Alliance Partnership’s “2011’s Most Influential Educators”. The Alliance Partnership recognizes individuals who have made a significant impact on their students’ lives. Mr. Ritthaler was specifically nominated for not only helping develop his student’s musical talents, but also helping them grow as people. “He’s freakin’ awesome!” Freshman Kaylee Brinkerhoff, stated. She later added, “He gets along really well with all of the students and has a great sense of humor. He’s not all school all the time but he’s also serious when it is needed.” To go along with his fun side, he likes to ride motorcycles and go to air shows. Another thing that interests him is working on his yard, and every October he plays in the Great We s t ern Rocky Mountain Brass Band. Photo taken by Kearra Boggs

Mr. Ritthaler earned his Bachelor’s Degree at Western State University in Gunnison, CO. Then, he received his Master’s Degree at Adams State University in Alamosa, CO. He was originally working toward a performance major, but after helping to teach here and there, he ultimately decided that teaching was what he enjoyed most. He graduated with a major in performing and teaching. Mr. Ritthaler has been working at M-CHS for 23 years, his first 13 years being the assistant director and the last 10 being the head director. He has also helped out in schools around the area; he worked at Cortez Middle School, Kemper, Lewis Arriola, and Pleasant View. Mr. Ritthaler said that the best thing about working with the band is, “The sense of accomplishment when we finish a piece of music we’ve been working on for a long time.” Aside from the marching and jazz band, which are most popular around the school, Mr. Ritthaler also teaches percussion and piano classes. He is very dedicated to his students and our band, striving to make them both the best they can be.

Press 12Panther M 2012

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Up co m i n g Even t s Thursday, March 15.

-7:30am-12pm: 11th Grade ACT Prep (Special Schedule) -All Day: 12th Grade Community Service (Special Schedule, early release) -7:30am-Mid pm 9th & 10th Grade CSAP Testing (Special Schdule, early release) -7:00pm-10pm: “The Foreigner” Spring Play performance in the M-CHS Auditorium.

Friday, March 16.

-All Day: JV/V Baseball host Four Corners Classic at Home. -All Day: Band Boosters Bake Sale at City Market. -7:00pm- 10pm: “The Foreigner” Spring Play( Also runs Saturday, March 17 and 2:00pm and 7:00pm)

Tuesday, March 20.

-4:00pm: Girls Tennis vs. Durango at Home. -7:30pm-9:30pm: Volleyball Open Gym in the Main Gym.

Wednesday, March 21.

-All Day: Ap exam registation and deposits are due to Ms. Olson. -11am: Girls V soccer vs. Grand Junction HS at Home. -11:36am-12:21pm: Power Lunch Day.

Thursday, March 22.

-4;00pm-1opm: Band Spring Concert in the Auditorium.

Firday, March 23.

-5pm: Girls Soccer V vs. Montrose at Home.

Saturday, March 24.

-All Day: Happy Birthday Ray Harriman. -11am: Girls Soccer V vs. Central (GJ) at Home.