eatonredink.com May 5, 2021 Vol. 13 Ed. 3 114 Park Ave Eaton, CO 80615
Pages 6-10
Class of...
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May 5, 2021
A night to remember on the red carpet Upperclassmen enjoy prom after the lack of prom last year
emilyhogsett newseditor After a long year of no dances and activities, Eaton High School juniors and seniors were able to enjoy a night on the Red Carpet for prom 2021. Through the whole school year, COVID-19 kept the students of EHS from enjoying normal school activities, but prom became the exception. The upperclassmen were finally able to savor prom on April 17. Prom was a night to remember with Hollywood-themed decorations giving the night a red carpet vibe for the students of Eaton High School. Due to COVID-19 guidelines, two gyms were used, and juniors and seniors were able to get tickets to either gym. Guests were allowed to attend with their date if they signed up in advance. Mackenzie Crouch (22) said, “My favorite part about prom decorations was probably seeing it all come together. It seemed like it was impossible to have prom in the first place, and the fact we did was the most satisfying part. My favorite part of helping decorate was that I was surrounded by people who are very important to me, we love dancing and be-
ing together.” Since last year’s prom was cancelled due to COVID-19, it was a bittersweet experience for Eaton’s seniors. 2021’s prom was the seniors first and last true prom experience. Annalise Holte (21) said, “Knowing that this was the only prom I was going to get, I was going to cherish every moment a little more. When the night was over, I was definitely a bit sad because it was everything I could have asked for.” As upperclassmen of EHS strolled the red carpet for the night, elegant dresses and suits filled the gyms. Simplistic dresses were a common style seen at the 2021 prom. Open-backed dresses adorned the dance floor, and men wore sharp suits and tuxedos to dance the night away. Prom Court consisted of Nakaiya Kuskie (21), Abbey Hays (21), Makynna Gentry (21), Jisell Chumacero (21), Emma Blaskowski (21), Carlos Bonilla (21), Garrett Copeland (21), Juan Maravilla (21), Tanner True (21), and Ryan Ure (21). Copeland and Gentry were crowned 2021 prom King and Queen. “It was an honor to be crowned prom king and was so much fun. My favorite part
about prom was getting to be with friends - hanging out before, during, and at after prom,” Copeland said. The night of dancing was followed by after prom at the Eaton Country Club. Upperclassmen were able to enjoy an inflatable bull, board games, blackjack, prizes, a hypnotist, and fun with friends. Kati Conway (22) said her favorite part of after prom was “the hypnotist or getting the mystery money.” Even through all the struggles of COVID-19, seniors and juniors were still able to experience prom and make memories to last a lifetime.
Emily Hogsett
Makynna Gentry and (21) and Garrett Copeland (21) crowned prom king and queen
Emily Seaver (22), Taylor Bradshaw (22), Ashlyn Crowder (22), Kati Conway (22), and Ashlyn Meyer (22)
Alli Schmitt (21), Catelyn Adams (21), Marco Rodriquez (21), Carlos Bonilla (21), Tanner True (21), Jenni Jarnagin (21), and Coal Kuzov (21)
Emily Hogsett Alonso Zubia (22), Juan Campos (22), Justin Elizalde (22), and Rodolfo Manuel (22) hanging out at after prom
Grace Smith (21), Annalise Holte (21), Mackenna Dalton (21), and Sarah-Cate Ogden (21)
May 5, 2021
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Hiking in Colorado? Here’s where to do it The best trails and hikes to explore aubreyledall staffreporter As the weather warms and the school year comes to an end, many Coloradans are looking forward to getting outdoors. Incredible scenery and refreshing views are spread throughout the state, providing adventurers with the opportunity to experience memorable hikes and trails that range from effortless to challenging. A true jewel in the middle of Rocky Mountain National Park is Emerald Lake. This hike is roughly 3.5 miles round-trip and reaches an elevation of 10,110 feet. Starting early in the morning on this hike is the best because crowds are smaller and there aren’t as many people. Along the steady climb to the top, Long’s Peak emerges through the trees. At just over
a half-mile from the trailhead, hikers will reach the south end of Nymph Lake. Continuing up the trail on the hike, people can expect to see Dream Lake and Emerald lake as well. “My favorite place to hike is Emerald Lake because it goes past three lakes before you get to the top of Emerald,” Lauren Caudle (23) said. When continuing up the trail there is a nice view of Hallett Peak and Flattop Mountain. With the sound of a waterfall rushing down the gorge between the two mountains and a variety of wildflowers for people to delight in, this is a great hike to try out. Another hike with photo worthy views is the Hanging Lake Hike. At 2.4 miles roundtrip, the trek begins along the Colorado River surrounded by rock walls of the Glenwood Canyon. After about a quarter
mile, hikers will reach Dead Horse Creek Canyon, which is about a mile and leads to Hanging Lake and Spouting Rock Falls. Shaded by skyscraping spruce, cedar, and fir trees, the climb to the top is pleasant, although the best part of the hike is the end. There are two breathtaking waterfalls, refreshing sounds, and cool air that flows through the canyon. When looking for a secluded, yet spectacular, high-elevation and backcountry opportunity, the San Juan National Forest has several hikes. The long trails will leave most who backpack this terrain feeling more in touch with nature and sore for the next week. Spanish teacher Aleena Griffin has hiked in the San Juan National Forest before and said “ there’s way less people there and the mountains are really beautiful. You’re
kind of out in the middle of nowhere but it’s beautiful.” If adventurers are seeking a hike closer to home, Fort Collins has awesome spots. Arthur’s Rock Trail is 3.4 miles up and back. At Lowry State Park, Arthur’s Rock is a relatively short and moderate hike with spectacular views. A definite path leads hikers around small shrubs, boulders, and a forested mountain side. Half a mile into
the hike, people are faced with the decision whether to traipse through a grassy meadow or a more challenging climb to the top. Arriving at the top, surrounded by boulders, Horsetooth Reservoir, Fort Collins, and the Front Range are in view. Any of these hikes provide adventurers with fresh air, photoworthy views, and memories.
Students plan for summer vacation Where students are planning to travel this summer ryleemartin featureeditor
As summer is approaching, Eaton High School students are preparing for the hot months by planning family vacations. With all of the stresses of school, extracurricular activities, or maybe just life itself, a break is most definitely needed. But, with all the relaxation that is bound to be had throughout the summer, preparation is key for a five star experience. Sydney Leffler (21) is planning on going to Mexico this summer with her family and she said her key to a prime vacation is
“Buying a ton of swimsuits, without a doubt, also preparing for the conditions that we will be going into so I always pack a bunch of sunscreen.” As the turquoise waters of Mexico await Leffler, she said, “I am super excited. I love getting to travel with my family especially since I am a senior I want to make this trip one to remember and do a bunch of fun things.” Lots of amazing memories are bound to be made on summer vacations and Leffler said, “My all time favorite thing to do when I am on vacation is to get ready for
dinner after being at the beach all day, the feeling gives me great vibes and I love it.” Leffler plans on visiting Mexico for a total of two weeks with her aunt, uncle, and cousins. Without a doubt the ideal summer vacation would include a beach, some flip flops, and sunglasses. But, Walker Martin (23) has a different summer plan. He said, “Because I travel a lot for baseball, my summer vacation will include going down south to states like Georgia and Alabama.” Martin loves the culture that the southern states
have and he said, “I love the food, I am honestly mostly excited for the food.” Items like steamed crawfish and some wellcooked brisket makes Martin feel like he is in heaven. Martin said, “If I could only bring one accessory on my trip I would bring my hat, I hate getting sunburnt, so my hat protects me from that.” Martin plans on moving throughout the southern states the entire month of June for baseball and to visit college campuses. From the southern parts of the Peach state to a whole other beautiful country,
summer seems to be packed full of fun journeys for the Eaton Red students this 2021 summer.
Gabe Holguin
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May 5, 2021
The search for a new principal be gins
With Kaufman’s retirement new candidates will go through the interview process jacksontaggart staffreporter With the retirement of Rick Kaufman, there are a number of candidates that are looking to become Eaton High School’s next principal. The interview process is made up of four steps which include an introduction to a few students and staff, a tour of the high school, an interview with staff and parents, and a meeting with the superintendent. There are currently three principal candidates that are going through the interview process. The three candidates are Eric Dudley from Thompson School District, Jessica Grable from RE-4 Windsor, and Brian Schipper from Pueblo School District 70. The interviewing process
took place on April 23, 2021. The pool of candidates was vetted by a search committee and reduced to five finalist candidates (two have taken jobs and were removed from the pool). Kaufman supports the final recommendation. He said, “There are good candidates and an excellent process in place to hire the new principal...be comforted that there are many opinions that go into selecting the new principal.” The interview process has four elements: A student group consisting of eight students (two from each grade level) led by an EHS teacher. The candidates will then have a tour of the facility with the EHS secretaries. For the official interview, the interview team consists of staff members,,
parents, Board of Education members, and some current adminstrators. Finally, the candidate will have a meeting
with Superintendent Jay Tapia, where he will take each groups’ thoughts into account to make a final decision. Once Tapia
has made a final decision, he will present his recommendation to the board as the final step in the hiring process.
Jack Taggart The principal’s office awaits a new principal
Construction at Eaton School District Current school and new high school updates maddiefisher staffreporter All over the Eaton school district, construction tape, materials, and excavators are scattered in progress for the new high school and other district buildings. While the construction continues across the current high school, the groundwork of the future high school of Eaton has started. At the new school grounds, the concrete for the foundation has been poured and the steel, which should be put up in the next couple weeks, has arrived. The concrete foundation of the tennis courts should be poured soon and over the summer, grass for the future softball fields will be planted. The outlook for next year is split into two semesters, the first semester will have the same look as the current building. For the second semester, the construction behind the current high school will be finished. Teachers will then move
to the newly finished area and be placed there for the remainder of the 2022 school year. Assistant Principal Tom Shannon has been in charge of the placement of staff and the communication with FCI, the contractor. He has made sure that the important elements have not been missed and Principal Kaufman said, “Mr. Shannon has done a phenomenal job in terms of the placement and communication of the construction of the school.” Excitement has been racing through Principal Kaufman, Assistant Principal Shannon, and Athletic Director Longwell as the school is closer to being in fewer buildings. “I’m excited to have us more encompassed into one building, because we have four buildings. I’m excited for our teachers to be closer in proximity and our school as a whole,” Shannon said. As the existing high school will turn into the middle school, all the students and staff will have
to think about this school not being “theirs” anymore. Longwell is excited for the teachers. He said, “For this building, hopefully by second semester teachers will have a place that they can call their own, with rooms that are equipped for that specific class.” Culturally it has been difficult for teachers to teach in a room that is temporary and not appropriate for the class that is being taught. Along with temporary classrooms, the classes and teachers have been spread out to four buildings around the campus; the “Agriculture Building”, the “North Building”, “The Mods”, the main building, and the 63 North Building. The idea of teachers getting to choose their own furniture for their classrooms was never an option at the current high school. As for the new classrooms and furniture the new school will have, Kaufman said, “Teachers will have a place that they can call their own.” Students have had a say in
some of the elements at the current school too and some helped the construction workers build part of the electrical boxes. The safety of students is the main concern next to education at Eaton High School and with the new school comes new technology, Kaufman said, “I was in the construction phases when Fossil Ridge was built and to see the things that are in there and the security that is in play, will be in
play at our school too. It is like pushing a button and all the doors lock, push a button and a threat is contained in that area. So those elements will be pretty cool.” It isn’t just the staff, but students should have an easier time at the new school as well. With larger parking lots and new technology and amenities, the school should be an amazing environment.
Construction crew invites students to help build a part of the school
May 5, 2021
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Remembering Miguel Lopez charlottereynolds managingeditor Miguel Lopez is remembered by his contagious smile and his joyful spirit. He made everyone around him better as he brought life to every room he walked in. Throughout the Eaton and Kersey community, Miguel’s life is honored and cherished. On March 25, 2021, Miguel Lopez passed away due to a tragic car accident. His memorial service was held on Friday, April 2, where his family and friends gathered to celebrate his life. Miguel graduated from Eaton High School in May 2020. After graduation, he began working for TLM constructors. Weeks before his passing, Miguel received a big promotion that was well deserved and overdue. He was very excited to be given that opportunity to excel. Miguel was a son, brother, and a friend to many. He is survived by his sister Mailen Lopez, brother Maartin Lopez, and mother Teresa Maldonado. Miguel often talked about spoiling his mom with an expensive birthday or Christmas gift because he was so appreciative of how she raised him. Miguel walked alongside his sister, Mailen, in creating childhood memories and being her best friend. Mailen Lopez said, “Miguel’s most memorable attributes were his confidence, determination, and mischief.
Miguel worked, partied, and loved hard. He would have done anything for the people he loved.” Miguel dedicated himself to being a loyal son, a good big brother, and to protecting his older sister. Miguel, better known by his friends as Mike, is remembered as the life of the party. He wanted everyone around him to have as much fun as he was. Miguel’s best friend, Brody Mills, shares fond memories of their friendship. Mills said, “Mike left a huge impact on mine and my family’s life. From the moment we met we became friends, then best friends, and soon enough brothers. He made his way into my family, and we spent three meals a day together. Mike’s outlook on life really made me understand and appreciate the value of every second of every day.” In his senior year, when asked about the legacy he’d like to leave behind, Miguel said, “I hope to leave a legacy of never taking anything for granted in life. Because everything in your life can change within minutes.” He made sure to represent that in his actions. Miguel’s impact is evident through the lives he touched. His legacy will continue to help others live their life to the fullest. Miguel always carried a smile on his face in every circumstance, inspiring his loved ones to do the same.
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Class of 2021
Song: “Lean On Me”
“My favorite memory is the Link retreat Junior year.” Catelyn Adams
“My favorite memory is fitness challenge.” Leslie Apodad Cruz
“My favorite memory is getting Papas every Tuesday with Scooter and Ryan.” Angel Arroyo
“My favorite memory from high school is making friends in theatre and Spanish class.” Madelyn Biggers
“My favorite memory was when I learned how to MIG weld in welding class.” Michael Biggers
“My favorite high school memory is having classes with my best friends.” Jonathan Brantner
Orin Brown
“My favorite memory has to be state volleyball.” Jisell Chumacero
“My favorite memory from high school is Jorgensen’s class with a lot of guys from baseball.” Robert Copeland
Class colors: Red and silver
“My favorite memory was buying my car.” Kaden Betters
Steven Arroyo
Rachael Ballard
“My favorite memory is the volleyball student sections. Watching our team absolutely kill every opponent while we screamed and chanted.” Emma Blaskowski
“My favorite memory is when football won the state championship.” Carlos Bonilla Gonzalez
“My favorite memory from this high school is probably just hanging out with friends and sharing time with people.” Marek Booth
“My favorite memory would have be when Wyatte Hall hit the fence in the parking lot.” Kolby Branom
“My favorite memory is just hanging out with the fellas during school.” Jake Burkholder
“My favorite memory from high school would have to be winning State Football Championships!” Gage Butler
“My favorite memory is hanging out in Armstrong’s room.” Mitchell Byrne
“My favorite memory is cross country team bonding in one of the team members’ cabin in Estes.” Sydney Carlson
“My favorite memory would be all of the times I have gotten to laugh with my friends at our lunch table.” Angela Covarrubias-Garcia
“My favorite memory would have to be the friendships I made and awesome people I got to meet.” Caitlyn Cowell
“My favorite memory is traveling to competitions with FFA chapter members.” Miranda Crisp
“My favorite memory is all the fun, jokes, laughs, and times spent with my friends.” Mackenna Dalton
What is your favorite high school memory?
“My favorite memory has got to be the time the marching band won first place at state last year.” Austin Decker
May 5, 2021
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“My favorite memory from high school was probably just hanging out with the boys and friends.” Blake Dilka
“My favorite memory from high school was going to all the high school events with my friends.” Rebecca Doughty
“My favorite memory from high school was school dances with my best friends.” Megan Elliot
“My favorite memory from high school was when my whole friend group had one class together.” Joseline Espinoza Leos
“My favorite memory was after prom.” Conner Fisher
“My favorite memory is playing state championship at Pepsi Center sophomore year of high school.” Hannah Marie Friis Hansen
“My favorite memory would be seeing how much you change from when you first walk into the school and how much you grow up.” Garret Gallegos
“My favorite high school memory is the time I spent in band.” Aracely Garcia
“My favorite memory was high school, as a whole, was fun and a big experience.” Kameryn Gartrell
“My best memories from high school all come from homecomig week.” Makynna Gentry
“My favorite memory was marching band cometition and hanging out with friends.” Gabriel Gerkin
“My favorite memory was hanging out with the cross country team after school and walking dogs at the animal den.” Evan Gesick
“Do you know what day it is? It’s papa burger Tuesday. Where’s my meat!?” Scott Grable
“My favorite memory was probably winning state in marching band.” Jaryn Green
Jessica Guerra
Wyatte Hall
“My favorite memory is probably meeting the Flatbush Zombies.” Tobias Harper
“My favorite memory was hanging out with the boys really.” Abigail Hays
“If you’re gonna mess up at least make them wonder how you did it.” Austin Hays
“My favorite memory from my high school career is that I got to experience about everything, from parties to different friend groups.” Genesis Hembree
“My favorite high school memory was the color dance we had during my junior year.” Kacie Henrichs
“My favorite memory was going out to lunch with my close friends and remebering high school memories.” Daniel Hernandez
“My favorite memory waa Freshman year doing basketball.” Liam Hernandez
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Class of 2021
“My favorite memory would just be learning who I am and who I want to be.” Judith Hernandez Contreras
“My favorite memory from highschool was probaby the football games throughout the years.” Aspen Hockley
“My favorite memory was the color dance.” Annalise Holte
“My favorite memory is probably just all the funny jokes and stuff that happened during lunch.” Jennifer Jarnagin
“My favorite memory is sitting in the hall during lunch and playing MarioKart with my friends.” Jadon Johnson
My favorite memory was hanging out with my freinds.” Cael Jordan
“My favorite memory was going to state volleyball, Gwen gave us Redbulls and then we just listened to music before we played.” Sydney Leffler
“My favortie movie from high school is just meeting my friends and gaining new friends.” Joseph Lindsley
“My favorite memory would be meeting all the teachers and the students because it was amazing.”
“My favortie memory is getting coffee with my friends during my off periods.”
“My favorite memory was finally winning state football.” Juan Maravilla
“My favorite memory was all of them I guess.” Roman Marquez
“My favorite memory is going to Thespian Conference during my sophomore and junior year.” Sarah-Cate Ogden
“My favorite memory of high school was being able to have my siblings there with me. Each day was eventful that’s for sure.” Essence Orosco
“My favorite memory of high school was the people I met.”
“My favorite memory was going to get coffee with my friends during lunch or during our off periods.” Kaelyn Parrish
“My favorite memory is when I realized that I wasn’t alone in school and that I had made some really good friends that care about me and make me happy.”
“My favorite memory is having Mrs. Hixon in class and more teachers who support me in anything.”
“My favorite memories are meeting new people like my friends Antonio and Angel. I met them both in a class that was really difficult so they made that class and high school a lot more fun.”
“My favorite memory was marching band my junior year, we are standing on the field and there was a big audience and I’m preparing myself and it was one of the most heart wrenching moments.”
“My favorite memory would be standing on the sideline at the state game this year when we got the fumble back at the end of the game, so we sealed the deal and we knew we were going to win.”
“My favorite memory from high school was getting to dress up for homecoming week spirit days.” Haley Riddle
“My favorite memory is when I was managing the football team and we took the white buses to the game and we had a lot of fun.” Natalia Rincon
“My favorite memory from high school was being in color guard in marching band.”
Simon Reichel
Zane Renner
Brenna Lloyd-Green
Jenalyn Overton
Ian Richling
Arli Luna Cristobal
Leslie Perez
Candida Perez Gongora
Chantel Rivera Flores
Class size: 116
May 5, 2021
Class flower: Rose
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“My favorite memory would be showing my animals.” Kylie Kayser
“My favorite memory would be the lake, just taking time to laugh and smile with family and friends.” Kyleigh Kieler
“My favorite memory was class day senior year.”
“My favorite memory from this school year is when I found out that me and all my buddies work at the same burger king.” Coal Kuzov
“My favorite memeory would have to be winning our state championship in football.” Zachary Lampe
“My favorite memory from all of high school would have to be my 4-H shooting sports.” Jackson Leafgren
“My favorite memory from high school is wearing my shark costume to the volleyball games when it was beach day.” Cade Mawson
“My favorite memory is when my advising class was playing with a ball and someone didn’t catch it and it broke a beaker.” Attalyn Mellman
“My favorite memory is playing baseball.” Logan Moser
“My favorite memory in high school was when my friends and I would hang out at any of the school events.” Timothy Nelson
““My favorite memory from high school was definitely playing baseball.” Brolin O’Connell
“My favorite memory was getting the oppurtunity to go to state in volleyball freshman year.” Delaney Ochsner
“My favorite memory from high school would have to be finding friends and finding things I enjoy doing. I really enjoy working with children and cooking.”
“My favorite memory in high school is most definitely the day I learned to drift a car.”
“My favorite high school memories came from playing C-team baseball. I really enjoyed having Mr. Jorgensen as a coach and that was the last year that several of my friends played.”
“My favorite memory from Highschool would be all the smiles and laughter that were shared with friends and classmates throughout these past four years.”
“My favorite memory from high school was winning state Champions for softball.” Yaritza Puente
“My favorite memory would be when I dared my friend to chug a liter of sweet teall and making him sick or speeding over dips with my friends.” Raymond Reece
“My favorite memory from high school was going to the color dance (September 2019).” Marco Rodriguez Ferman
“Winning the football state championship was my favorite memory from high school.” Salvador Rojas
“My favorite memory from high school was winning the Eaton Invitational (as a team and individually) for golf.”
“My favorite memory of high school was definetly the moment we won state in softball.” Alexis Schmitt
“My favorite memory of high school was definetly the moment we won state in softball.” Cole Schumacher
“My favorite memory of high school is being part of the Marching Band that won state in 2019.” Nicholas Sell
Michael Prather
Rebecca Pfeiff
Nakaiya Kuskie
Everett Preston
Dillyn Schmidke
Treavor Proctor
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Class of 2021
“My favorite memory of high school is having all of my friends packed in my car in the parking lot eating lunch.” Grace Smith
“My favorite memory was when I got my calculator stolen my junior year.” Jarred Smith
“State FBLA my sophmore year was my best memory because it was fun to meet other people with similar life desires.” Elijah Taylor
“My favorite memory from high school is being in the student section at high school volleyball games.” Jordan Tomlinson
“My favorite highschool memory was freshman year and getting to know all of these new people because I was new.” Christopher Travis
“My favorite memory was everything that happened in the locker room after practice.” Tanner True
“My favortite memory was when I was sprayed by a skunk with my brother on the way to school.” Grady Turrentine
“My favorite memory of high school has been baseball season and playing in the final four.” Ryan Ure
“My favorite memory of High School would have to be spending time with the person I love the most.”
“My favorite memory from high school was meeting new people and making friends.”
“My favorite memory from high school would be just having fun with my friends and laughing.” Madison Walls
“My favorite memory of high school was eating lunch with my friends.” Brooke Walpole
“My favorite memory was being with all of my friends and grouping together under blankets on the bleachers to watch our home football games.” Abigail Warzyniak
“My favorite memory from high school is unclear. I enjoyed my life outside the school mostly.” Jesiah Wight
“My favorite memory of high school was the cross country retreat to Estes Park my Freshman year.” Benjamin Williams
“My favorite memory was going to all the sporting events and being able to sit and take photos for hours on end for yearbook.” Emma Williams
“My favorite memory from high school is definitely my team and I winning the state championship.” Jaymie Woody
“My favorite memory is the final preformance of the show that won state in marching band.” Shellby Wright
Alika Velasquez
Jadyn Wagner
“Adventure is out there” Lane Wyatt
“My favorite memory of high school was building new relationships with different people.”
Destiny Wynn
May 5, 2021
Principal Kaufman retires
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After educating for 18 years, traveling is the next step maddiefisher staffreporter After 40 years of being an educator, Principal Rick Kaufman is retiring at the end of this year. Kaufman has been at Eaton High School for 18 years and was supposed to retire last year in 2020, but due to Jay Tapia changing positions to superintendent and an unsuccessful principal search, he was asked to come back for one more year to serve as the principal. From all the battles EHS has had this year, Kaufman has had a challenging job, which he accomplished in a great manner. For being one of few schools in the state of Colorado to have in-person learning, Eaton High School has exceeded expectations of students, teachers, and Principal Kaufman himself. Although he has been here for a great amount of time, Mr. Kaufman didn’t start his education career in Eaton. He taught for 20 years in Indiana and has been in administration for 20 years, the past 18 of those at Eaton High School. Kaufman has always been a rock and foundation for Eaton High School and strives to be a strong figure in the school. After the losses of students Eaton High School has had and broken students, staff, and families, Kaufman has always loved to see the support our school brings for everyone. “It’s stuff that is not publicized, but it’s just how the community supports people in the time of need,” Kaufman said, referring to the great people that the school is made up of. Being in a small town, just about everyone knows each other and in times of grief, Kaufman is always there to support who needs it. Mr. Kaufman’s wife has
been retired for three years now and she has been patiently waiting for him to join her. Him and his wife have a passion for traveling, and they have been to the all contiguous states, Alaska, Hawaii, and Europe. He said, “Traveling and just enjoying one another without having to be concerned about being on someone’s clock besides our own,” would be what he is looking forward to in retirement. Being in a school there are always bells ringing, meetings, and places to be at the right time, so traveling should be a relaxing change. For being here so long, there is going to be a lot Mr. Kaufman will miss from the school to the tight-knit community. Students, staff, and community members will be missed by Mr. Kaufman as he starts his new path in life. “The social aspect of connectivity of groups of students and staff will be a missing element,” he said. From teaching for 20 years to becoming a principal, the context on the impact he had on students changed. He went from having 120 students to 500, so the impact on the number of students increased. After receiving state recognition and awards in Indiana, Kaufman was prepared for the job that he has currently. Kaufman’s piece of advice for every student in this school is “All hands on deck.” This means to be helpful, be humble, and he advises to stay away from social media. He loves helping people that need it such as in the event of prom and upcoming graduation. His goal for all the students that graduate from Eaton High School is to become problem solvers, to be social in terms of interacting with
employers and college professors, and to advocate out in the world. He has seen so many grades of students grow and graduate off into the world, He said,“It is cool to see people come back into the building as guest speakers for Eaton 101.” There are situations where Eaton graduates come back to the building to show students where they are in the world and how they have become successful from how the school prepared them. This makes staff proud when they see students that they had in class come back in the building. With great authority, Kaufman thinks of all the students and staff in the building as his “class”. He is always helping the staff and students where he can, with approving plans or advising teachers. After many years, Eaton High School appreciates Principal Rick Kaufman being an educator and great role model to all the students and staff.
Emily Hogsett Principal Kaufman awards students with academic awards
Emily Hogsett Principal Kaufman awards students with academic letter patches
Emily Hogsett Principal Kaufman awards students with honors academic letters
12 redview May 5, 2021 Vondy’s View
locking down on emergency protocols
abigailvondy editorinchief
To my classmates... Dear class of 2022, I have known the majority of you since I was in kindergarten. Witnessing the growth of my grade first hand has been astonishing. We were told since third grade that the class of 2022 was the worst group of kids to walk the halls of any Eaton school. As children, we loved the title. It gave us a reason to be the worst. Going into middle school, I watched as our class caused multiple mental breakdowns for our poor teachers. I witnessed the ruthless shenanigans and the slight torment. I observed as we became true to our reputation. Maybe that was just a result of being kids. In reality, we probably were not that bad. Yet, it was drilled into our minds throughout our educational years. I’m impressed to sit down today and see how far we have come. How distant the reputation now stands. I can’t speak for everyone when I say high school hit us hard. We were finally beginning our lives and developing bigger goals. We definitely have our days, though. Teachers and staff may still complain and bring up our old reputation, but I would like to say that the growth has been significant. We have developed stronger relationships and seem to genuinely care about one another. As our junior year reaches a slow end, and senior year peeks around the corner, the amount
of gratitude and love I hold of my classmates is immeasurable. I wish I could thank each one of you personally for creating such an interesting and fun childhood. Watching the seniors as they prepare to move onto their next step makes me sad for next year. Saying goodbye and moving on from this town seems almost dreamlike. The year we have been waiting for our whole lives is right at our fingertips. How terrifying is that? Although, I am excited to see where you all will go and watch the reputation completely fade away. You all contributed to who I am as a person. Each one of you helped me discover who I am. I hope I was able to do the same for you. My best advice for the class of 2022, including me, is to continue growing. I want to prove them all wrong and show, to the best of our ability, how significant our class is. Let’s ensure that our best year is our last. I look forward to another school year filled with laughs and anticipation. I want you all to walk away from our old reputation and go into the world as something more substantial. I truly believe that each one of you is capable of this. After everything we have gone through during our years together, I foresee an amazing senior year. So thank you all and I hope you all have a wonderful summer.
Staff Editoral
Safety drills are a part of every single school. Whether that be a fire drill, tornado drill, or a lockdown drill, every school is required to practice them in case of emergency. The Alice training program, that deals with school threats, states, “The more a plan is practiced and stakeholders are trained on the plan, the more effectively they will be able to act during an emergency to lessen the impact on life. Exercises provide opportunities to practice with community partners (local emergency responders) as well as to identify gaps and weaknesses in the plan.” There is no official requirement for these drills, but rather loose plans on when they should be taken. This depends on which safety concerns are most likely to impact the school. This year at Eaton High School, most of the drills were not conducted until around three weeks before the school year was over. This strikes a concern for many people because drills are practiced to keep the students and staff of the school safe, and the fact that they weren’t conducted until the very end of the school year worries some people. This is a valid concern considering the fact that some students don’t know what to do during specific emergencies. Many classrooms in the school have recently changed due to construction within the school, and even students that have had a teacher before might be in a different place than they re-
membered. Due to classroom changes, the locations where students need to go during emergencies are unknown to many of the students. That doesn’t even include the freshmen and students that are new to the school, who may already have enough trouble making their way to their classes. Vice Principal Tom Shannon said, “We are supposed to have one lockdown drill per semester but we decided as a leadership team that we weren’t going to mess with that first semester because of everything else going on.” Excluding just everything going on during this year, the school has not conducted a lockdown drill for the past several semesters. A study done by CPR (Colorado Public Radio) news states, “Many no longer saw school as a safe place and some worried about the possibility of a school shooting regularly.” This was due to the drills that took place regarding school shootings. Although the lockdown drills conducted do bring people’s minds to the possibility of school shootings, what to do in an emergency is a good thing to be aware of, especially with the increasing likeli-
Gabe Holguin Lopez
hood of a school shooting. Nobody knows what is going to happen any given day, and it is better to be well prepared than the opposite. It is better for the health and safety of the students to be thinking about these types of possibilities than not knowing what to do in a life-threatening situation. A lot of the frustration stems from the fact that the school does monthly fire drills, and the concern about a fire is treated greater than that of school shootings. Statistics show that an average of one civilian death is caused by school fires per year, while an average of anywhere from five to over 20 kids are victims of school shootings. Regardless of the cause of the incident, being prepared is oftentimes the only way to protect lives. The fact that the preparation for these horrific incidents is being discredited by not only Eaton schools, but many schools within the past few years, is truly terrifying. Just because an issue has the potential to make a few students uncomfortable does not mean that it should not be disregarded in any way shape or form.
May 5, 2020
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The skateboarding community The development of skateboarding in Eaton, Colorado huntertomlinson staffreporter blakehays staffreporter
in the modern day. Throughout the history of skateboarding, special words for tricks and actions have been Skateboarding has been established and popularized by around since the 1940s and has the community. For example, gradually become a mainstream the “ollie”, which is a standard sport. It was invented when jump on the board using only surfers in California wanted the feet to power it. The “olsomething to do when the lie” has fueled major amounts of creativity waves were flat. in skateboardThis was called ing through“sidewalk surfing” out the years; and boards have subsequently; evolved from a Skateboarding hundreds of surfboard with has taught me tricks have wheels to the to never give been inmost iconic popvented. These sicle stick shape up tricks have that is known influenced so today. Over the -Jack Dalton many people years, skateto get into boarding has skateboarding not only made a because they popular sport but want to learn also created new fashion trends them. that have become very popular Jack Dalton (24) said, “One
“ “
of my older friends worked at an indoor skatepark and that influenced me to try and skate.” The influence skateboarding has on other people is crazy and it spreads throughout people when they see skateboarding first hand. Dalton went on to say, “Skateboarding made me happier and taught me to never give up. One thing that makes me want to go out and skate is to learn new tricks or see if someone else is skating too.” Skateboarding is not a forgiving sport, to say the least, but it pays off throughout the progression of tricks. Eaton, Colorado, is a small town and its skateboarding community is very small-scale. With only a handful of kids in the town who skate, the skating community struggles to survive, but the ones who skate have a great passion for it. Although Eaton used to have a
Gabe Holguin Hunter Tomlinson performs a skateboarding trick in front of the Eaton High School skatepark, it was taken down in the mid-2000s. Without a skate park, the recent years of skateboarding for Eaton haven’t been very successful. Skaters have to use either their front lawns or spots around the town to skate at. Although Eaton is quite a small town, there are a couple of spots for skateboarding that are spread across the town. The rec center in the town has a massive parking lot and
curbs that allow skaters to ride around on. It is usually empty in the later hours of the day, so that is the best time to skate it. The Evangelical Free Church parking lot is good too and the sidewalks around the high school and middle school create a great area for skaters to cruise around on. Skateboarding is a growing sport in modern-day society and provides great happiness for the skate community.
Tokyo Olympics 2021 preview
July 23, 2021 marks the start of the Tokyo Olympics, and anything can happen logangullett staffreporter The Summer Olympics in Tokyo were supposed to be last year, but they were postponed due to the pandemic. This was a huge deal for many athletes because they specialize their training to peak at certain times. Obviously, they would want to peak at the Olympics, but, since the Olympics were postponed, the athletes’ training cycles were messed up. Consequently, it is unclear as to who will win each event. The last Summer Olympics were held in Rio, Brazil, in 2016. Out of the 206 countries that went, the
top four medaling countries were the United States, Great Britain, China, and Russia. This year, many experts have ranked Team USA as the country to bring in the most medals. Due to an anti-doping ban, Russian athletes can’t actually represent Russia. Instead they will be under the Russian Olympic Committee, and they won’t be able to use Russia’s name, anthem, or flag. Some American athletes expected to make a huge impact are Simone Biles (gymnast), Caeleb Dressel (swimmer), Noah Lyles (sprinter), and Allyson Felix (sprinter). These athletes all won multiple gold medals in Rio and have
been top performers in their respective sports since then. Eaton Reds wrestler Aaron Lampe (23) is a big fan of the USA Olympic wrestling team. He said, “The US Olympic Team is one of the best teams in the world. I think that everyone that is going to the games has a chance to medal and maybe even win gold.” Japan is planning on restricting the number of spectators that can watch the Olympic events in person and the opening ceremony will most likely be closed to the public. Tokyo Governor Yuriko Koike stated in a press release, “I sincerely look
forward to seeing all athletes from Japan and abroad, who have been training very hard.” Athletes will not be expected to get the Covid vaccine, but they will be required to wear masks at all times excluding competition. “The Olympics are
a really good way to end war. They bring peace, prosperity, salvation to nations who are not often heard of,” said Walker Copeland (23). If all goes well, the 2021 Tokyo Olympics could be the light at the end of the tunnel for this crazy and stressful time.
14 redspotlight
May 5, 2021
Ryan Ure featured on Mile High Sports
EHS baseball senior makes it on front cover of Denver magazine
abigailvondy editorinchief Eaton’s baseball history has been remarkable for years. With 17 state championships since 2001, the boys understand the power of the town’s baseball diamond. Playing on a field that has seen so much success brings a love unlike any other, especially when the game has been a passion since childhood. Ryan Ure (21) proves the power of a childhood passion as he makes Eaton baseball history in 2021. Being featured on the cover of a sports magazine is monumental for any athlete, but especially one from a school the size of EHS. Ure has been playing baseball for as long as he can remember. As the team’s top pitcher and defensive first baseman, the article feature is extremely suitable. Ure led the state in RBIs as a sophomore and is currently undefeated as a pitcher. He knows the game like the back of his hand, and he loves everything about it. Due to all the chaos within the world during the last year, the Mile High Magazine decided to focus on high school students who perform at a high level and love the game. Ure was a perfect candidate, and the experience only heightened the passion. “It was definitely exciting to see myself on the cover since I’ve never been a part of something like this. I was very excited to go to the photo shoot where they took the cover photo. And to see the finished product was sweet,” he said. Ure has been on the national circuit during the summer season and was previously involved in several invite-only camps and tournaments. Having already created a name for himself in the baseball world through these opportunities, the magazine was just another big step towards a bright, base-
ball-filled future. Baseball Coach Todd Hernandez said, “Obviously, being naturally gifted plays a part, but Ryan has also put in the work. He doesn’t take his talent for granted and wants to get better. He is constantly trying to improve. I would also say that he has a great support system from his family. They have instilled values and work.” With his hard work and passion Ure has accomplished so much in his young life. He has signed to play baseball at Oklahoma State University, one of the country’s best programs with a great reputation. He hopes to one day play baseball as a career in the MLB and live on the diamond. Ure’s humbleness toward his talent is admirable. He never makes his teammates feel lesser than him. “I really appreciate the fact that Ryan is as humble as he is talented. A person would never know that he is one of the best high school players in the state. He works hard, doesn’t expect any special treatment, and will do anything to help the team,” Hernandez said. As the 2021 baseball season commences, Ure will contribute his talents as pitcher, first baseman, and cleanup hitter. He is excited to be back on the field to play the game he loves, have fun, make more memories, and get competitive. As for how he got to this position in his baseball career, Ure said, “I’ve just played baseball. I haven’t stressed over missing out on opportunities. I’ve just played and had fun. I’ve learned that all I need to do is have fun and stay healthy and everything else will work out.” The Mile High Magazine picked a great player, teammate, student, and mentor. As his last high school season begins, this baseball prodigy will only continue to grow.
Kicking off spring sports
May 5, 2021
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Athletes prepare for tennis, track and field, and baseball
amandadavis logangullett staffreporters emilyhogsett newseditor As spring kicks off, Eaton prepares for the last sports season of the year to begin. These sports include tennis, track and field, and baseball. Season D sports will be competing until the end of June, and running into the first part of summer has caused controversy for many athletes. Eaton’s seniors graduate on May 9 and school officially ends May 12, leaving a whole month of the sports occurring over the summer.
Tennis
Due to COVID-19, the number of tennis tournaments and matches have been reduced by 25% and the season is seven weeks instead of the normal ten weeks. According to CHSAA, tennis practice was able to start on April 26. Tennis regionals are scheduled for June 4 and the state tournament will be June 10-12 to conclude the season. “The thing we are looking forward to most is just getting back on the court and getting to play again. I think that by not having a season, the girls understand that this is what we
really need,” Coach Michael Brisendine said. Open gyms have been occurring since February. The Lady Reds first match took place on April 29 against Northridge, followed by their match against Thompson Valley on May 3. Eaton will battle Peak to Peak away on May 8. The tennis team is young and talented. Coach Brisendine said, “We have a lot of freshman and sophomores this year, and a lot of talented and athletic freshman and sophomores that are probably going to play varsity.” Coach Brisendine is hoping to send as many players
Track and Field
Emily Hogsett Track athlete Joseph Sisneros (22) works on his footwork during an open gym
Baseball As baseball transitions into the start of practices, athletes have been putting in the extra work by having open gyms twice a week, which have divided some of them up between pitchers/catchers and then everyone. Coach Hernandez said, “We have a lot of depth and our pitching should be really good, so I expect us to be able to compete with the top teams in the state.” The guys look forward to having a season since they did not get to have one last
year. Ryder True (23) said, “It sucked because we only have four years of high school baseball, so it really sucked losing a year.” Losing last year didn’t stop those athletes from getting in that extra work, and just getting to play during their “offseason.” Senior Ryan Ure said “During the offseason, I still found ways to get my pitching in and keep working out. I was able to get a couple tournaments in as well.” There are going to be those struggles throughout the team,
as possible to state. The Lady Reds only have two days of official practice before their matchup with Northridge. Due to construction and weather conditions, it has been hard for the players to consistently have open gyms.
Kyleigh Kieler (21) said, “I am looking forward to being back on the courts and creating more unforgettable bonds with more girls. I really want to push myself to be a singles player and letter again.”
Emily Hogsett
Tennis player Aubrey Ledall (23) prepares for the season
athletes are expected to bring their state-caliber abilities back to the track for the 2021 season. Andie Rassmussen (24) is also expected to make a big impact on the team, as she placed 10th at the state cross country championships. Coach Guerra said, “We have several athletes who will be state contenders and who have continued to work hard in the off season to be in that position.”With the season officially starting on April 26, track and field athletes will begin training for their first meet, which is on May 8.
With the track and field athletes ready for the season to begin there are obviously going to be things that are different. Coach Guerra said, “I think that the biggest struggle for the team this year will be that we have no momentum from last year since our season got cancelled, and now most of our season will take place in the summer. There are several athletes not competing in track this year because of the circumstances, so our team makeup will definitely look a
lot different than it has in the past years.” Logan Gullett (23) said, “I love track and I love being around my teammates and coaches, of course I’m going to keep returning after school ends.” Gullett placed 5th at the state cross country meet and has his eyes on going to state for the 1600m and the 3200m. In 2019, the Eaton Reds track team had several athletes qualify for the state meet including Joseph Sisneros (22), Allyson Weichel (22), and Scott Grable (21). These
but looking at the positives will easily out-weigh those negatives. Jared McCormack (22) said, “I think we will mainly struggle with those adjustments, but we are a great team and I don’t see those problems affecting us a lot. I am just looking forward to finally getting back out on the field.” The guys are eager and ready to hit the field April 26th for the first practice in two years, and then they will have their first game against Brush on May 4.
The Eaton Baseball team discusses Amanda what the Davis season will look like.
16 redzone May 5, 2021
Undefeated Reds Prepare for state Reds Volleyball finishes the Regular Season strong
jadenstone sportseditor Reds Volleyball has finished the regular season undefeated and look towards the postseason. The team finished 14-0 overall and 10-0 in their league, and because of their outstanding record, they will enter regionals as the number one seed. Sydney Leffler (21) said, “It feels amazing that we finished undefeated. It shows that all of our hard work really paid off, but it also shows that we still must continue to work harder in the postseason to stay that way because the target is only getting bigger on our backs, anyone is going to show up when they play us.” Throughout the season, the Reds were led by four seniors: Sydney Leffler, Delaney Ochsner (21), Abbey Hays (21), and Jisell Chumacero (21). Leffler, who led
the team in kills with 205 on the season, said, “My role has changed as a senior this year by just trying to lead the program as a whole, not just by my skill, but passing on tradition and passion to the younger girls.” The seniors will look to lead the Reds to bring home their program’s 10th state title. Leffler said, “Our mindset going into the postseason is that we have a job to get done and that is to bring a trophy home, so we have to put in more work than we have before in order to get where we want to be.” Rylee Martin (23), the team’s setter, leads all of the Patriot league conference in assists with 444 this season. Martin said, “It feels great to be leading in assists, but I owe it all to my teammates. We constantly work hard in the gym every single day and I couldn’t do it without them.” Martin also led the team in aces in the season, contributing 26 to the
team. Martin not only led the team in both of those categories, but she led the team in total blocks with 28. Ochsner, the libero, had 275 digs finishing the regular season, followed by Hays with 203. Ochsner led the team in serve returns as well with 172. Hays said, “This season I have been able to to connect with the whole team and bring a level of reliability and consistency to my play.” To start out the playoffs, regionals will take place in Eaton where the Reds will take on Basalt first, and then The Vanguard School on May 1. Hays said, “I expect our team to play with grace through the playoffs. It’s a really fun experience, but it comes with a lot of pressure.” Eaton will enter as the number one seed at 14-0, Basalt will enter the night at 10-4 in their season, and The Vanguard School Coursers are 10-3. “As
a team, I expect us to play for each other. This season our motto has been “Me over We” and this is really when it comes
into play,” Leffler said. With just two weeks to go, the Reds will attempt another state title run.
Amanda Davis Rylee Martin (23) prepares to serve an ace in the second set.
RedInk Staff Editor-in-Chief..……...........................…abigailvondy Managing Editor……........………...…charlottereynolds News Editor…….............….............……emilyhogsett Sports Editor..........…............……......……jadenstone Entertainment Editor…..................…….gabeholguin Feature Editor........................................ryleemartin Staff Reporter..........................................blakehays Staff Reporter......................................maddiefisher Staff Reporter................................huntertomlinson Staff Reporter.......................................aubreyledall Staff Reporter...................................jacksontaggart Staff Reporter.......................................logangullett Staff Reporter.....................................natalietrevino Staff Reporter..................................dakotabraucher Staff Reporter......................................amandadavis Staff Reporter........................................yeseniadiaz Staff Reporter.............................................linacruz Adviser………..........………......................jarynguerra
Emily Hogsett The team huddles as they prepare to play in the game.
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