November 2011

potlight S

November 2011

Nihl Sacrum Est?

Volume LXXXXVIII Issue 3

1600 City Park Esplanade

YOUNGQUIST TO RESIGN

By Dylan Wells and Genevieve Crawford

Students Shocked, Saddened by Departure

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COMMUNITY REACTIONS:

“I’ll be sad to see him go. He’s got great hair. The school be in Andy’s great care, it will be fine.”

-Mr. Hoffer, English Teacher “He is doing such a good job.

He can’t leave. It’s so sad. He’s been such a positive influence throught the school. It wil be a good school, but not a great one without him.”

-Austin Mccleary, Sophomore “It makes me sad. I think he will be a good fit for his new job, but he will dearly missed. He listens to teachers and students and always makes the best decisions.”

-Ms. Topf, English Teacher “East was on a downward spiral until he came and he lifted it up, so I’m sad he is leaving.”

-Katie Pelicore, Junior

photo by Genevieve Crawford

tudents and East High community members reacted with a mixture of shock and dismay after it was announced at a faculty meeting last Thursday that principal of four years John Youngquist would be leaving the school as of January 1st. “I don’t think it will be the same. I think in terms of a leader it’s rare to find someone who can lead well and be in touch with students.

He got East back on the right track… he will be missed,” said Senior Kaila Olson.

Youngquist is leaving East to be the new Director of Principal Development for DPS, part of a grant-funded initiative to identify new talent and evaluate current principals and administrators.

“I truly want more schools to be a lot like East.

I think a part of that is getting the right principals to lead those schools,” Youngquist said of his new position. In explanation of his departure in the middle of the school year, Younquist responded, “it is a disruptive time for the principal to be leaving and I apologize for that. It is a timeline that will help us get a jump on hiring and supporting these new principals.” He also discussed the whole DPS project being behind schedule and that his mid-year departure was not part of the original plan.

Student reaction was swift and disappointed.

Within hours of posting a status alerting her fellow students to the news, Junior Malaya King’s Facebook wall was plastered with comments.

“Whaaaat?”, “No way”, and “Uh uh, not my vanilla colored husband” were a few of the disappointed posts. King stated her feelings on the situation: “I’ll be sad to see him go. I would have liked to finish my high school years with him as my principal. I don’t think we’ll find anyone quite like him.” Certainly some girls will miss him the most, affectionately dubbing him ‘Yummyquist’ since his fateful arrival four years ago.

Youngquist successes are many and varied.

He focused on at-risk students, implementing programs that make sure that every student attend school to stay on track to graduate. He created tutoring programs, mentorship initiatives, and class designs that helped everyone succeed no matter their educational background.

Youngquist’s commitment to raising academic standards for students brought more AP curriculums and increased enrollment in advanced placement classes, but also organized support groups for those who needed more help.

His financial savvy also allowed East to maximize the amount of money received from the district for such things as Promethean boards and new bleachers in the gym.

Teachers and staff alike expressed their feelings about losing a widely respected leader. Mark Ajluni, an English teacher, credits Youngquist’s popularity among staff members to his management style. “In an era when teachers on under fire nationally, Youngquist trusted teachers as professionals and gave them the freedom to be creative in their work so they could unleash students’ fullest potential.” Youngquist had similar enthusiasm for his teaching staff, “I’ve never seen a community of teachers who are so motivated to work hard and make sure students are successful.”

Assistant Principal Shawn Anderson understands why the district chose to hire Youngquist in his new role, “I think the district needs to do what it can to make sure it has the best people. The new job makes the most of his potential”. Remarking on East’s future he added, “The school has the opportunity to grow and face new potential because

it has great teachers. We’ll be fine. Plus, now I’ll be taller than the principal,” explained Anderson.

Youngquist also enjoys wide support among parents who credit him for his inviting and respectful approach to community voice. Madeline Collison, an East High parent and member of the Parent Teacher Student Alliance (PTSA), exclaimed, “he was very good at bringing together the diverse groups in the school to work together towards common goals. He represented the school very well in the community and that helped make it the premier school of choice in the district.”

Assistant Principal Andy Mendelsberg will take over as the interim principal on January 1st, 2012. The district will conduct a nationwide search to find a permanent replacement. Students, parents, and teachers will have an opportunity to interview the candidates through the East

“Obviously we’re going to miss him. He’s done a phenomenal job seeing the big picture and keeping the small relationships.

He’s the only principal I’ve worked with and the bar is set so high.”

-Mrs. Anderson, History Teacher “He made East into a good school, I came here because of him.”

-Dylan Salsman, Freshman

community governing body.

Youngquist expressed his intent to continue to communicate with students, stating his plans to set up student lunches with him on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays. He also plans on having class meetings and setting up a Facebook page to express his feelings directly to the student body.

Youngquist was emotional about leaving his beloved Angels. “I’ve left many jobs over my time as an educator, but this by far is the most difficult because I haven’t stopped caring any less about East over time up to this moment. And the hardest moment is not going to be when I walk out the door, it’s going to be the last day before finals when all of our students walk out the door and as the principal I’m seeing everyone walk past that E for the last time.”

“Mr. Youngquist comes in everyday with a smile.

I think any principal who wuld shave his head and do pushups on the sidelines shows how dedicated he is.

For us, this is sad, but he’s now making DPS better and letting more people experience what we have, and that is good.”

-Greyson Holle, Junior “Silverfox no more.”

-Hannah Lazo, Senior

[NEWS]

November 14th, 2011

page 2

Westboro Visit Unites East Student Body

by Dylan Wells

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editor-in-chief

tist Church Picketers. Arrieta remember the moment as “powerful, very powerful.

There aren’t too many words to describe it. I just remember looking back and seeing all these students and getting goose bumps... it was so awesome to see so many people in support of one thing.”

The men and women that had provoked this response by the East High student body represented Westboro Baptist Church, a small church of 71 members located in Topeka, Kansas. The church is known for picketing gay-pride events and funerals, and they picket an estimated six locations every day. Their message is mainly homophobic (they attribute all suffering and world problems to homosexuality) but they bring other messages too. They frequently criticize other religions as devil and idol worship, as emphasized by their destinations after East High School: two Jewish General Assembly meetings.

They frequently threaten to picket locations and then fail to show up if no counterdemonstration is organized.

The atmosphere in the crowd on the corner of 17th more resembled that of a pep

Photos By Ty Wagner and Daniel Hartman-Strawn

xcitement rising in her chest, Kelsi Arrieta moved through the trees along the esplanade. Behind her, close to 300 Angels made up a crowd that was speckled with purple clothing and brightly colored signs. In front of her stood six picketers sporting bloodstained American flags and signs proclaiming such messages as “God Hates Fags.” Recalling the feeling of the experience, Arrieta says she is “honored to say I’m an Angel right now.”

As a President of Angels Against Abuse, a club that works to reduce teen dating violence that often collaborates with the homosexual community, Arrieta had reason to be proud: “it was amazing to think that the work we do in Angels Against Abuse could have affected this or just the work of the community could have made people so open to others.”

Signs proclaiming “God Loves All” and “If God Hates Gays, Why did he Make us so Cute?” surrounded those marked with “God Is Your Enemy” and “U H8 Jesus” as the crowd of East Angels encircled the six Westboro Bap-

rally or sports game than that of a group of angry counterprotesters. Traditional East call and response chants sounded from the middle of the moon-shaped throng.

Police officers and school security staff made sure that the counter-demonstrators kept a gap of a few feet between themselves and their awkwardly smiling opposition. Abe Mamet, a Junior on Student Council who helped organize a Facebook event in which 528 people pledged to attend the counter-demonstration, stated “I couldn’t be happier about what happened today.” He described student council and the administration’s stance as one of passive resistance: “To discourage any chance of violent confrontation, student council asked the students not to… well I wouldn’t say not to protest, but not to make the protests a big deal.”

Students had roughly three days to organize the counter-protests after word got out that Westboro had posted their plans to picket what they called the “faginfested, pervert-run East High School” on their website, www.godhatesfags. com. At least three Facebook

events immediately sprang up, attracting discussion and hundreds of promises to attend. Parents and other adults from across the state joined students in their response.

Mel Duggan, longtime sponsor of HHALO (Homosexual Heterosexual Alliance for Leadership and Outreach) said of the event “It seemed like all the gay kids really felt that East had come together and supported and embraced them in the face of bigotry.

At a time when gay students are being bullied and killing

themselves across the country, it’s a fabulous thing that the gay community at East was embraced and celebrated.”

Gay East Alumni Jovan Bridges was among those attending the protests. “I’ve always wanted to go to one of their protests, it’s just I haven’t had the chance,” he said of the Westboro picketers. “Now that it’s at East it’s right there, it’s hitting home.”

When asked about the student response he was almost drowned out by another chorus of cheers and chants: “I’m

really surprised this many people came out and I’m so happy that this many people are willing to fight.

East Sophomore Bruno Cavecchi stated his feelings near the end of the protest, when student numbers were piquing. “It’s damn inspiring,” he breathed, holding his sign a little higher as he stretched for a full view of the crowd. “We’ve certainly outnumbered them, so I guess we’ve changed this into a demonstration as opposed to a hate speech.”

NOVEMBER CALENDAR

13 15 16 16 16 18 ‘American Teacher’ Film Screening Autorium 7:00 pm

Con Law Team District Competition 9:30 Trinity Church

Spotlight

Freshman Student Council Election

Band Fundraiser Pizza Dinner

9:10 am

6:00 pm Commons

East High

EDITORS-IN-CHIEF Genevieve Crawford & Dylan Wells MEDIA DIRECTOR Austion Woolfolk SENIOR EDITOR Max Segal

MANAGING EDITOR Emma Dargen BUSINESS MANAGER Elizabeth Reger NEWS EDITOR Jacqueline Kimmell FEATURES EDITOR Joie Akerson CENTER EDITOR Nick Brown OPINIONS EDITOR Andrew Wise SPORTS EDITOR Keaghan Dunn-Rhodes REAR END EDITOR Joe Harrison PHOTO EDITOR Chris Padgett

STAFF WRITERS Alessa Barton, Deaunna Bridgeforth, Natalia Dellavalle, Aubin Fefley, Kahlia Hall, Christopher Harder, Daniel Hartman-Strawn, Abigail Lew, Kristian Marker, Grace McCabe, Denise Meeker, Gabriel O’Connell, Alison Oksner, Andrew Palmquist, Adelaide Sandvald, Harper Sherwood-Reid, Willow Turano, Ty Wagner, Poulami Wielga, Sara Yates STAFF ARTISTS Saad Moosajee and Jeremy Harker

Logo Design by Mo Shane East High Spotlight, Room 210A,

Some material courtesy of American Society of Newspaper 1600 City Park Esplanade, Denver, Colorado 80206 Editors/MCT Campus High School Newspaper Service.

The Spotlight is published by the student newspaper staff of East High School. The views expressed are those of the individual students and do not necessarily reflect those of the sponsor or of the staff as a whole. Student editors, not the administrators or the Denver Public Schools Board of Education, are responsible for the content published.

Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances.

SPONSOR Mr. Mark Ajluni

PRINCIPAL Mr. John Youngquist

PRINTED BY BARNUM PRINTING

Powederpuff Game 3:30 Football Field

Battle of the Bands 6:30-8:30 Authorim

181921 All City Choir 3pm Manual

Make a Difference Day 8 am- Noon

NHS Blood Drive East All Day

21 2425 Musical Auditions All Day

Thanksgiving No School

ThanksgivingNo School

[NEWS]

November 14th, 2011

Salaam, Gaddafi!

by Jacqueline Kimmell

newseditor lood dribbled over the shimmering gold pants of Muhammar Gaddafi as he laid slumped against a truck. He was surrounded by hundreds of revolutionaries who chanted for his death and all he could do was stare incredulously at his blood-soaked hand. Lifting his glance, he matched the stare of a fellow Libyan and muttered a question with tearful eyes, “What did I ever do to you?”

Gaddafi rose to power in Libya 41 year ago in a bloodless coup. He was a handsome military leader and revolutionary who gained power with the promise that Libya’s vast oil wealth could be shared with the common people. At first he was successful. He renegotiated the country’s oil contracts, redistributed the wealth and allowed his country to grow rich. However, his country was not the only one gaining wealth; Gaddafi is presumed to have accumulated anywhere from $20 billion to $70 billion. If the latter figure is indeed correct, Gaddafi was the second wealthiest man in the world, topping Bill Gates.

After his first decade in power, his grasp tightened significantly and he grew into a tyrant. He forbade a private press, which could write against him, and outlawed any political parties. Furthermore, he ordered dozens of deaths a year through his secret police, who acted upon tip-offs of his surveillance committees. These committees comprised 10% of the population, and they turned in fellow Libyans for arrest. In fact, in one night in 1996, he ordered the death of 1,200 political prisoners. Similar to Mao Zedong, Gaddafi wrote a book, entitled ‘The Green Book,’ which was required reading for all Libyan people. He also forcefully asserted his power in world affairs. He collected a nuclear arsenal (now defunct), sponsored dictators and terror groups, invaded Chad in order to create a

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September 1969: Gaddafi Takes Power in a Bloodless Coup

“Greater Libya,” and in 1988 sent agents to blow up a Pan Am flight over Lockerbie, Scotland, killing 270.

His foreign policy decisions were not his only idiosyncracies. He travelled with an army of 40 female high heel- wearing, virgin bodyguards who took an oath to give their lives for him, was fed through a bottle by his personal Ukrainian nurse, and pitched a tent on Donald Trump’s property during a UN meeting in New York. After meeting Condeleeza Rice, former Secretary of state, he kept a scrapbook filled with pictures of her. He owned hundreds of designer sunglasses, reportedly had several plastic surgeries and spent more money on hair dye per year than the average per capita income of his people.

The first signs of trouble for Gaddafi arose with the Arab Spring movements in early 2011. Gaddafi’s violent crackdown on the anti-government protests led to a full scale civil war between the government’s army and hired mercenaries against the revolutionary forces. The escalation of the conflict forced the international community to send NATO troops to institute a no-fly zone. Reports of the violence led the International Criminal Court and Interpol to indict Gaddafi for crimes against humanity. After the revolutionaries’ success in the Battle of Tripoli, Gaddafi fled to his hometown of Sirte where he hid in a fortified bunker.

Gaddafi’s downfall was his decision to flee Sirte. A U.S. drone operator in a base near Las Vegas noticed his convoy trying to flee and fired. Gaddafi narrowly survived the strike and sought refuge in a graffiti-laden drain pipe. He was discovered several hours later by a hoard of protesters who dragged him through the streets accompanied by a fury of raucous chanting. They stabbed him, ized him kicked him and possibly sodomhe was killed with a knife. After hours of abuse, by a gunshot to the head.

His body was held

December 1988: Gaddafi sends agents to bomb a transatlantic flight from London to New York, murdering 270.

page 3

After 41 years in power and a bloody civil war, Gaddafi is killed by a mob.

in a freezer in a shopping mall. Thousands of Libyan flocked to see for themselves that their “Dear Brother” was in fact dead. His death made news the world over, some reacted with joy, other with disapproval, and many wondered about Libya’s future without Gaddafi.

Junior Grace Montesano was reading the news at home when she found out about Gaddafi’s death, and she was instantly shocked. “I felt slightly conflicted and asked myself about the motive. It is a great loss for a human being to die, but is it less so when that person has inflicted so much pain and suffering on the lives of others?” Is she happy he is gone? “Yes. Though, even if it is nice to not worry about him, taking away the life of another human shouldn’t be anyone’s decision.”

Fellow junior Mark Francis also feels that Gaddafi’s killing was too harsh. “I think it would have been better to put him on trial because then he could have been proven guilty in a court of law instead of killed without right to due process.” Though he contends, “It’s a big step towards democracy for the Libyan people, I just hope that the progress continues and they become a democratic country now.”

Indeed, the future for Libya is unclear, but celebrations over the dictator’s death still rage on. Libyans heed his death as a joyous occasion and the beginning of a new era, but those around the world still question the murder. Perhaps Gaddafi’s last words illustrate the matter best. Crying o u t in a fit of anguish, Gaddafi asked,

Febuary 2011: Anti- government protests begin in Libya, this leads to a full scale civil war.

August 2011: Gaddafi flees Tripoli and is killed on October 20th.

LEAPing Towards a Better Education New Teacher Evaluation System Brings Promise and Anxiety

by Harper Sherwood- Reid erhaps some teachers worked on other things. Maybe some of Never them watched, nervously or maybe even smugly, their hands folded together. Yet others may have wandered, trying to sneak peeks at the pink-and-white papers that they had diligently dispersed to their students. Whichever way they may have gone about it, however, the teachers of East High were being judged. And, even if they’d wanted to, they couldn’t have changed a think about it.

Their classes were taking a survey about the quality of their teachers, which was mandated by the recent passage of Senate Bill 191.

The jury is still out on whether such surveys will eventually help East teachers to become better educators and, as a result, help East students to become better educated.

Senate Bill 191 was created in 2010 to improve education throughout the state by increasing the effectiveness of teachers. The bill included a system to evaluate the effectiveness of students’ teachers, which came to Denver in the form of a program known as LEAP, or Leading Effective Academic Practice. The program is one of the first of its kind, funded by a ten million dollar grant from the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation and pioneering the multi-sided evaluation of teachers by students, peers, and administrators accompanied by overall student performance on standardized tests to determine the effectiveness of a teacher. Although the system is rather revolutionary, LEAP is currently a pilot program, and the developers have yet to decide upon a final version.

Currently, the program uses student achievement tests as fifty percent of the evaluation of a teacher, while the evaluations by peers, administrators, and students makes up the remaing fifty percent. Although teachers will not be affected this year by evaluations and tests, the new rules and ideas developed this school year will be completely implemented in 2013-14 and teachers will be evaluated and placed on probationary or non-probationary status. Should teachers be placed on a probationary status for two consecutive years without showing improvement through evaluations, they could possibly be fired. For now however, the program is serving simply as a deciding factor for what will end up in the final stages of implementation.

On the survey portion of the evaluation, students must respond to several additional questions ranging from the amount of respect that students show each other in the classroom to how attentive teachers are to their needs.

Says Michelle Topf, an English teacher at East, “there are parts

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staffwriter

Some of Most of Always that are repeated, very subjective, or difficult to measure.” She is referring not only to the student surveys but also to the rubric that teachers are the Time the Time

evaluated against, which she believes has many flaws, although the purpose of the pilot program is to fix the problems that students and teachers alike find in LEAP. Jeffrey Lacy, a social studies teacher, addresses another issue that presents itself, “If a student likes a teacher they will be accurate, but if they don’t they will probably be vengeful.” Indeed, many of the survey questions depend heavily on how honest a student is and how much integrity they have, and students seem to be skeptical of their teachers.

However, says Chris Wright, the director of the program, “Students have good ideas- it’s important that [the student voice] is included.” He and the other members of the LEAP team believe that students could be the most valuable evaluators of teachers, as they spend the most time with them and observe them through their highs and lows. Also, students are the ones who will ultimately be affected the most, should the program be fully implemented.

LEAP targets teachers to improve in order to up the number of students who are successful. The goal is to eventually close the achievement gap, which refers to the significant disparity between average test scores of students based on class and race, by helping teachers to teach to all kinds of students, using all kinds of methods. The goal of the plan is for teachers to be able to ask both complex and simple questions about the same subjects, and to be able to teach to all students, regardless of class or race.

As a brand-new program on the forefront of a new way to evaluate teachers, no one is really prepared for any part of the program. Principal John Youngquist acknowledges the trials of the program, “It’s a challenge because it’s asking for things we aren’t prepared for.”

Still, “we happen to be out in front,” says Chris Wright, who is hopeful and excited about the prospect of a successful program both in DPS and, possibly, around the country in the future. While perhaps students will not learn differently for the time being, they may soon be experiencing more inclusive, valuable, and effective classes, taught by instructors who know more about how they should be interacting with their students.

“As a teacher, I love the challenge of getting better at my job with each year that I teach,” says science teacher Amy Hanson. LEAP is giving her that challenge.

November 14th, 2011

[NEWS]

OCCUPY MILE HIGH

page 4

photo by David Leaman-Miller

by Andrew Palmquist and Chris Harder

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ist jolted into the October air, V for Vendetta mask donned, and camera in hand. East High School Junior, David Leaman-Miller, gazes over the shadowed Capitol building and all that American society is supposed to stand for: democracy. The mask symbolizes a spirited antigovernment movement and is proudly molded to the faces of many protesters downtown any given Saturday.

The Occupy Wall Street movement, or OWS, has managed to capture the imagination of everyday Americans living paycheck to paycheck. It resonates with many unemployed Americans who feel alienated from a Democratic process seemingly run by and for the wealthy. Leaman-Miller is determined to fight back.

“I thought that this was one of the best things that I saw happen in this country. It needed to spread and it needed to grow and I thought I could help do that,” Leaman-Miller said.

What began on September 17, 2011 in New York City as a rallying cry for the middle class, has grown into a widespread occupation. Fed up with the inequities of America’s economy, thousands of people have taken to the streets in cities such as New York, Boston, Chicago and Denver. In Denver, marches take place every Saturday from 12pm to 3pm starting in Civic Center Park and wind their way on to the 16th Street Mall past the Federal Reserve building.

Protestors wave signs, chant slogans, play drums, and try to get the attention of passing cars.

Leaman-Miller is loving every minute of it, enthralled by the spirit of the protesters and inspired to exercise his free speech rights for a growing cause he finds noble and righteous.

“The first time I came down was two weeks ago and there were probably only 500 people, and now there are thousands. I’ve come back each Saturday since then,” said Leaman-Miller. The number of protestors have varied from day to day, but there still remains a sizable population of activists.

People of all ages and ethnicities have united for a common goal: change. Although the demands of protestors are vague, some aspects of the movement are clear.

The chants are peaceful in nature, but it is easy to hear the frustration in the voice of the people as they chant “We are the 99%”.

Amongst the wealthy corporations that line the 16th Street Mall, two protesters aim their frustrations at Verizon Wireless in particular. Holding a “Verigreedy Wireless, destroying middle class jobs” sign and shouting “Shame!”, these two men are the poster child for the anger at the heart of the protest. Small children walk hand in hand down with their parents, signs on their backs addressing the looming question, “What about my future?”. It is a question that many adults in the United States are beginning to realize must be addressed.

Leaman-Miller believes the most significant thing being brought to light is that “Corporations have too much of a stronghold over our government and control too much of the policy.” As scattered as the protester’s complaints may be, this is a central issue of the movement. Much of this anger is centered on the Citizens United v Federal Election Committee ruling, where it was decided that corporations are allowed to donate as much money as they want to political parties and politicians. This has prompted many pro-

testers to don signs saying, “Money Does Not Equal Free Speech”. Many believe that the people have no real say in what their government should look like if corporations are allowed to buy off political parties and politicians in order to satisfy their personal agenda and trump public opinion with their wallets.

Inspired by the recent revolutions of Egypt and Tunisia, the Occupy movement “aims to expose how the richest 1% of people are writing the rules of an unfair global economy that is foreclosing on our future.” Coming up on its second full month of national protests, the movement shows no signs of regressing, and has the potential to grow exponentially.

Protesters have also attempted to connect with the authorities, many chanting “Police are the 99%”. Yet as quick as the protesters are to unite with the police force, you won’t find the same sympathies from many officers.

“We don’t have views; all we do is make sure they exercise their rights, we’re on duty and we don’t take sides on any of this stuff,” said one officer with a telling grin.

The police have been out in major force since the uprising began. Mayor Hancock and Governor John Hickenlooper made a major decision early on not to let the protestors stay the night in the park. Protester were not discouraged by city actions and returned each day to continue the demonstrations. Things went well for a time until things got ugly two weeks ago.

On October 29th, police finally responded violently to the Denver protesters.

Disgruntled after a foiled attempt to hold an open forum on the Capitol steps, the protesters, voices growing angrier and louder, set up tents in Civic Center Park as a bold statement of defiance. When police showed up, they were anything but ready to cooperate. Gas masks, riot gear, pepper spray guns and rubber bullets were among the supplies the DPD brought with them to the park; the peaceful protesters unaware of the clash ahead. As the tents came down, the people surrounded the police, with pepper and rubber shots being fired soon after. The gruesome cuts and bruises of one man who was shot out of a tree with rubber bullets shows the true severity of where the protests have gone.

“They (Denver Police) were completely out of line,” Leaman-Miller, who watched the violence unfold before his eyes on Saturday, said. “They didn’t try to talk to us, they didn’t try to diffuse it at all.”

Some Denver police appeared to discredit the protestors.

“If you find a topic, people will protest anything these days,” stated one fed up Denver policeman.

As the protests in Denver and worldwide continue to spread, the demands and cohesion of the demonstrators is likely to solidify. Indeed, the problems of economic inequality and unemployment are not likely to disappear anytime soon. For David and thousand of other protestors, one thing is certain, the 99 percent will keep standing up to the 1%.

Click. Flash. You’re Caught.

by Elizabeth Reger

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ruising down the road with the music blaring, you and your friends zoom past a seemingly normal van parked along the side of the road. After an eruption of flashes, you realize that you have just been caught. Several days later, you receive a picture of yourself driving over the speed limit along with a demand forcing you to cough up nearly 160 dollars to the city.

Commonly referred to as “speed traps,” photo radar cameras are cameras set up on traffic lights and on parked cars. Monitoring radar, they flash a light a snap a picture every time a car passing before them is exceeding the limit. The concealed nature of these cameras has been mistaken as a trick or a trap set up by the government.

Many students at East have been caught in the recent “trap” along 17th avenue near Colorado and share mixed opinions regarding the subject.

Junior Ally Williams experienced one of Denver’s most recent “speed traps” as she was driving through a school zone a few miles over the limit. Although the flashes and initial fear of getting caught and the looming 80 dollar fine at first startled her, she does not find the entire experience completely useful. After receiving the ticket, Williams had the option to pay the stated fee or send it back to the police station claiming that it was not her picture. Williams, however, admitted that the ticket taught her a lesson. She agrees with the initial purpose of the trap that “once you get a ticket, you are much more cautious and you always slow down the next time you see that van.”

Fellow classmate and junior Eve Golla witnessed her dad being caught in the same speed trap. Eve, similar to many East students, regarded this ticket as a joke

business manager driving to promote safety.

“If we pull someone over who is speeding to visit their mother in the hospital we may be more lenient than we would to a rotten driver… a machine cant do that.” Hart believes strongly in the human element in his work and thinks it’s more successful and effective than any machine.

Hart also attempts to set straight the rumors of not having trulto pay these fines. Although, he admits, people still can and will get away from their speeding ticket, once the fines are issued, they are irreversible. This means, that if the fine goes unpaid, it can destroy credit scores, house loans, and school loans.

Although intended to be set up iwn residential neighborhoods only, these speed traps have appeared abundantly on several busy streets and intersections. This causes police officers on high-speed chases and or regulatory patrols annoyance and distraction from their duties, as they are also caught in the traps.

Set up along these busy roads or residential areas, Denver officials continue to enforce the speed limit with cameras, lights, and vans. In an interview with 9 News, official Sonny Jackson rejected the negative “speed trap” label.

“We’re not trapping anyone,” Jackson states, “we’re simply enforcing the speed limit along busy roads.” Officials are also trying to remind us that speeding even a few miles per hour over the limit is dangerous and can cause fatal accidents, with a click, flash, and ticket.

and began laughing when it first happened. “They are just annoying,” she reflects, “people will still speed.” Golla also believes that these traps are simply set ups to bring in money for the government and police departments and serve no real purpose.

According to The National Motorists Association, the city of Denver has the fourth highest concentration of speed traps in the nation. While blatantly disregarded by most high school students, Denver civilians in charge of the system have proved that these “speed enforcement operations” have been an overall success. By issuing fees, not only have the traps caught, scared, and taught lessons to hundreds of drivers around the area, but the city has also collected nearly 4 million dollars in revenue in just one year form the fines of these tickets for the governments and more speed enforcement set ups. In addition, millions of dollars of fines from traffic tickets each year go to insurance companies. Insurance companies support the liaison between speeding and fatal accidents. These companies invest millions of dollars in the enforcements of speed traps and within a year, have expanded their profit.

While the operation is succeeding, several Denver Police are opposed to the concept. Because the enforcements are under a untitled civilian group power, Denver Police are not involved or exempt from the speed traps catches. Technician of the District 2 Police Department, Mark Hart, disagrees with the concept and the use of these traps. Hart protests that the traps take out the human element of his and his fellow officers jobs. He likes to be able to pull people over and talk with them about their

[OPINIONS]

November 14th, 2011

page 5

The Perils of Teen Romance Surviving the “Talking Stage”

by Deaunna Bridgeforth staffwriter

s adolescents in this crazy world there are many things at which we all seem to fail. There is one common ground we all get a little nervous on, and that is getting a special someone in our life. A lot of us would call it “the talking stage.” It can bring the best or the worst out of us. The question is how do you get to that level? Are there rules? How do you know when you talk to someone? Billions of questions and concerns cross your mind anytime you get that fuzzy feeling inside from talking to that one person. From some personal experiences, I can give a little insight on the signs of talking. Here are the do’s and don’ts and, most importantly, a little advice to give you the courage to approach that cutie in your biology class you can’t seem to take your eyes off of.

The first step is when you see someone you find attractive. You’re liking the vibe they’re sending you so you ask for their number. In most cases when you really want to pursue someone, you try and get the full 411 so in case it gets real you know if there are any potential road blocks in the way. Then it’s time to hit that person with the first text. A hint that I hear a lot when you know someone is trying to talk to you on that level is when they call you “babe” and names of that sort. Then the text conversation is going really good and you’re feeling each Now if they are talking other and the conto you and half of the versation.

A simple cheerleading team, I’d “Hey what you doing” highly suggest you just turned into a real deep let that person go. personal conversation is a for sure sign that the person is trying to get to know you better than you think. So now what?

The next day is the most awkward, especially if you go to

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the same school. Seeing the person face to face is way different than exchanging texts. There is still the question: is it official, or are you still working your way up there? In the matters of trying to talk to someone, can you talk to others as well or do you have to stick to that one person? Senior Tiffany Hines believes, “If you don’t express to each other that you’re just talking to each other, than you can do whatever you please until that is clarified.” In other words, you have no room to be mad about the fact the person talks to you and maybe one other person. Now if they are talking to you and half of the cheer-

The second way it can go is “friends with benefits.” This happens frequently. Senior Stephaun Gaddis feels, “its kind of like having a girlfriend without the title.” It’s a semi-serious type of relationship where you don’t actually want to be with someone officially, but you want something special. Friends with benefits works well at times, depending on if you and that person have the same mind set. You can basically do whatever you want, knowing at the end of the day you always have someone to go to. It doesn’t always run as smooth as it sounds. That’s why when you establish this kind of agreement with a person, you have to be a thousand percent sure they understand. In this type of relationship, one communication error can cause your life to be a living hell or you can have a future fatal attraction. Make sure you keep it clear and simple.

The third way it can go is completely wrong.

You have tried numerous times to make the connection but its just not working. The conversation is dull.

There is no interest at all. In some cases trying to talk to someone on that level and not being successful can still lead to be something extraordinary. At times it can be hard to know whether or not it’s going to work.

You can have a connection with someone that is just so real but it can turn into nothing more than a really close friendship, which at times can be a bummer, but don’t give up. there are more fish in the sea, you just didn’t have the right bait for that one.

Talking to someone is sometimes a very difficult task and sometimes very easy. It’s crazy how a simple, cute comment on a facebook photo can turn into the potential love of your life. You should always make sure that you let it be known as soon as possible whether or not you’re feeling that person on the same level they’re feeling you. Clear communication is so important when it comes to the talking stage. At the end of it all, you know whether it was meant to be or not. Hopefully for anyone out there reading, I hope this gives you the confidence you need to get out there and try. I promise you, as long as you keep it real you are guaranteed to get something out of it. photo by Andrew Wise

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leading team, I’d highly suggest you just let that person go.

The whole “talking stage” is a very controversial topic.

Everyone has their own views on it. From personal experience it can go one of three ways. The first way is where you want to be boyfriend and girlfriend. The two of you are feeling each other on that level. It’s just getting so real, to the point where you want to be more than this person’s friend. Its finally “FBO” (Facebook official), everyone knows that your talking process went well, and now you have a new lover for that period of time.

Stepping Out of the Box The Steve Jobs Method

by Grace Mccabe staffwriter

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teve Jobs didn’t go to ing up with and comparing Harvard. And no, it’s not to the ever-increasing stanbecause he went to Stanford dards set for them. They’re instead. Or Oxford, or Yale, so focused on these presor Princeton. In fact, Steve sures that they don’t branch Jobs didn’t go to any college out, they don’t explore, they for more than six months, yet don’t learn just for the sake he was one of the most inno- of learning, and they don’t vative and influential people discover what they’re truly of this century. This didn’t passionate about. happen in spite of his lack The reason for this of a higher-level education, is that students don’t see his troubles the worth with formal in doing Whatever your schooling, definition of success, something or his soulyour way to reach it that they searching don’t beis unique to you. trip to India lieve will in his 20s, it contribute happened because of it. Steve to success in the future.

Jobs stepped out of the box to The flaw in this school of find his own way to success, thought is that success is a and so should everyone else. very broad and wide-rangToo often young people ing subject, and it means are told that there is only one different things to everyway to achieve success in life, body. And because sucand they all struggle to stay cess can be many different on that straight and narrow things, it can be reached in path. They’re told to get good many different ways. For grades, do well on tests, and some, success is money. For join a club or some extracur- others, its excelling in somericulars to “look good” for thing they enjoy doing. For colleges. There’s the problem. a lot of people, it’s a comStudents nowadays don’t bination of these things. want to be good, they want Whatever your definition of to look good. The high-pres- success, your way to reach it sure world of academia, filled is unique to you. For a lot with standardized tests and of people trade schools are 5.2 GPAs makes students way much more helpful than too preoccupied with keep-

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an Ivy League to reach their version of success. There are also those that face a path to success that’s a little longer and has a few wrong turns.

This doesn’t mean they’re a failure, it means they’ll have more experiences to shape their version of success.

Young people need to appreciate the value of participating in activities they are interested in and are passionate about, not just activities that will look good on a college resume. Academics are not the be all end all, they are one part of a life that will be a lot more fulfilling and meaningful if it’s filled with passion and daring to step out of the box. Take for example Stanford graduate Kamael Sugrim. Graduating in 2005 with an MBA, Sugrim was poised to enter the corporate world when the words of Steve Jobs himself at her commencement ceremony spurred her to go in a different direction. She decided to follow her true passion and start a nonprofit in India using cell phones and other technology to encourage kids to go to school, and to reward them when they do. Her goal now? To end the cycle of poverty, not be a CEO. So how can we change

this society to one based on passion instead of grades? It begins with students who develop actual interests and passions instead of simply getting A’s and doing little else. It begins with teachers who encourage students to explore, in-

vestigate, and actually learn instead of doing the bare minimum for a good grade. It begins with school systems caring about more than standardized tests. It begins with people like Steve Jobs.

[OPINIONS]

November 14th, 2011

Stalking Stigma

page 6

by Ali Oksner

I

am a professional stalker.

Clarke Sondermann. Fifteen years old. Born on April 10, 1996. His favorite activities include cuddling, velociraptors and being a badass. His favorite bands are too numerous to count, he loves “The Catcher In The Rye,” and he once bathed in Skittles.

And I knew all of this without even talking to him. I stalked Clarke Sondermann and I am not ashamed.

Facebook. All culturally and technologically adept Americans know about the wonders of Mark Zuckerberg’s genius creation. The ease of sharing news, photos and complete nonsense is akin to no other site.

The addition of the live feed on each user’s home page has only increased the speed

staffwriter and temptation to browse friends’ online activity. Some may call this covert collection of information stalking; I prefer the term research. Research is not limited to those Facebook users you’ve met. It is incredibly easy to get sucked into the dangerous black hole of social networking.

One click leads to another and pretty soon, you know that-kid-in-your-math-class’s best friend’s cousin’s dog’s name.

With a couple of clicks of a mouse, I know the basic details of whomever I choose. Most of the Facebook “researchers” I know use this handy tool as a source of entertainment. Done with your homework on a Sunday afternoon? Peruse a few photos of Clare Berzins at the beach,

Raves Acco la Wha des for t t I re he A a c prog ram b lly like ab tors out E ecau ties t s o jus a t do s e it provi st High S des y omet choo o hing l creat u with a l is the the ive a o ater t of nd w hatno opportun it.

-Bru no C avec chi

ol! st school in Love your scho hool, it’s the be Sc h ig H t as E w packed I love thing I hate is ho . ly on he T . ld or the w that’s okay t to be honest, ch the halls are bu -Charmaine Bun

Homec o Home ming wasn’ t comin g was hat bad have b pretty een m good uc rally w as oka h better. The . The music y. It co lights was al what e uld we rig ve freshm ryone was s have been b re good. The ht. It could aying. e en,” bu w tter. Yo We t other u coul hole pep dn’t re than th didn’t reall y a at it w as goo get to say “g lly hear d. o hom e -Chey enne M artin

A stalked Facebook photo of Clarke Sondermann being doused in Skittles.

Efrem Sharew’s artsy light effects, or basically anyone’s embarrassing middle school “selfies” (A selfie is a photo taken of one’s self, usually because said person lacks any friends to take photos of them). Others use it as a sort of background check to decide whether or not someone is acceptable to befriend in real life. Either way, there is absolutely no harm in taking an interest in your peers.

For Clarke Sondermann, Facebook can be a helpful resource in the research of the famous. “A lot of my stalking time is spent on celebrities or people in bands,” the admitted researcher shared. “I actually found Emma Watson’s Facebook account under a fake name. She dated my friend’s brother.” In my opinion, both pieces of information are highly impressive. However, his research is not purely recreational. Recently, Sondermann befriended the popular musician Matt Nathanson. Through his enthusiastic contact with Nathanson’s man-

ager, Sondermann has acquired free tickets whenever Nathanson is next in Denver. In this case, his hard work, tirelessly scrolling through lists of people until the right page is found, has truly paid off.

And yet, there is a social stigma to Facebook “researching.” It is a known fact that we all do some friendly “stalking,” so why do we so desperately pretend we don’t? Haven’t you ever met a new person whose profile you’ve examined and all you can think of is your shared favorite band, favorite food, or best friend? You suppress the urge to confess your knowledge for fear of being creepy. But we are all creeps. Next time you meet one of your regular “stalkees,” don’t be afraid to compliment her pictures from Cancun, his adorable dog, her ability to fluently speak four languages.

Be honest, one of your favorite activities on your profile should probably read, “Facebook stalking.” Quit being ashamed and edit your profile to tell the truth.

Rants urth he fo st like t e t , I ha re ju rado ou, you’ oing to o l o for y anying C ver g irs te be working ke it’s ne to class ving a a t t S s the test ’s li t ha g is o go g Up ut the fit , nothin g and it ’t want t withou n i r e s n o i d r n g ler Stag t care ab get tire ust walk ike “I do e elevato r Sem ’ j u l e n h o e k t e o r Y r r ’ ’ e d . a s I ou p. You us -P stair t us e!” Y floor No mor ly give u tion? Le n. a ! al “gah ou liter mmend n our ow Y o o , c e end .” My re he cod t e r n Kleptomania! mo nt dow There’s a problem with kleptomania. to hu It seems to plague the school. As someone who has had her entire backpack stolen with her biology book in it, I feel I can speak quite thoroughly abo ut this.

Aislinn Reardon

r couldn’t hea ost its Pep because you Pep Rally L e e id er ts w u o le p ed suck ll peo ause all the ta I think that it ec at b g th in ct h fa yt e th see an ams I think anything or the sports te r fo pid; nobody u as st d st n ju A as w k ac in front. tr n around the inside. ia they had to ru ing. They should have it -Olivia Georg yth cheered for an

Phy I do sics Fe lon n’t wa ars g n term hair… t that phy sub. I can physic him sics. W For on ’t even s (sub st e r h Mr . Yo ich is , he is emem itute)… n ung b r qui idicul ot goin er his the g u st. P ous n g leas . It’s to let ame, t y with e do just us u o be the re stup n’t. s t id. e calcu he lon ally Ple g l a to ase don rs in ’t h ire -Sa mW algr ehn

by Dylan Wells editor-in-chief

[OPINIONS]

November 14th, 2011

page 7

AMERICA:

Quit Your Whining

by Genevieve Crawford editor-in-chief

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All homeless people are just faking

Dude I know

photo by Chris Padgett

ake up, America. We sit in front of our computers prowling Facebook, gripping our precious cell phones, awaiting the texts about the party next weekend, all while the television murmurs quietly in the background. We are so incredibly connected these days through technology, but do we really know each other? Do we really know the everyday occurrences of the world? Welcome to the life of the American teenager, connected, but all the while, clueless.

We have so many useful technologies all within arms reach these days, but lack the capacity to change the channel and tune into the news or put the phone down to face the friend that we are currently sitting with.

We struggle so much to find the balance of these opportunities afforded to us through technology, and it is truly amazing that we broadcast the shallow crusades for all of the world to see on our “frenemy:” the internet.

We live in the first world, and these are our most pressing problems.

Of recent, the coined term “First World Problems,” emerges as both a joke in everyday conversation, and as a means for viral humiliation. For example, Whitewhine.com broadcasts Americans’ idiosyncratic expressions for the viewing pleasure of the rest of the world. The posts publicized on the site are constantly affirming the beliefs that Americans, despite race or age, are so absorbed in their unimportant lives that they know nothing of the world. These posts are so ridiculous, one cannot not help but laugh at the astounding ignorance that is plaguing

our society. It is quite evident that we know nothing of anything relevant to the rest of the world.

We know nothing of the immense food shortages in Somalia or the ongoing genocide in Sudan. Americans even circumvent things happening in the United States. They do not see harsh unemployment plaguing the United States, or even the Occupy Wall Street protests taking place all over the country. Instead they focus too much on less important factors of being a citizen of the “first world.” In fact, the motto of the site portrays a very supremacist ‘American’ ideal: “no peace on Earth until the

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Staff Editorial:

The Dispensary Dilemma

by Editorial Staff spotlight

photo by Andrew Wise

his scenario played out recently here in Denver: One day, a medical marijuana dispensary opened in a typical strip mall somewhere in the city. This is not an especially unique occurrence, as dispensaries are opening in Denver faster than McDonalds are in China. But there was a problem. Just a few doors down, children laughed and played in the haven of a day care center.

Soon, the parents of the toddlers became disgruntled with having a dispensary so close to their children, possibly because the stoners kept coming over to watch SpongeBob, but mostly because there is a law in Denver that dispensaries must be 600 yards from an educational institution. The solution to this strip mall conundrum?

The dispensary bought the day care center, closed it down, and sent the little ones elsewhere. Really.

Marijuana has grown to be a powerful commercial force in Colorado, and that is causing conflict in communities across the state. There are six different dispensaries within a mile of East High, most of which have opened within the last 3 or 4 years.

The orange neon “Hemp Con” sign loomed over our school for several months, a constant reminder of Colorado’s perpetual obsession with weed.

Sure, there may be a market for medical marijuana, and it may work for some people. This drug may go the way of alcohol, and in then years and be almost

poor have compassion for the rich.” Amazing.

Spewing complaints is much more of the American nature these days, and through such sites as whitewhine.com, the trivial problems of Americans are poignantly revealed with a mocking subtitle to boot. The most commendable Americans gripe and grumble about the size of coffee mug holders in their cars because they risk spillage all over their new white pants, or the immigrant at the coffee shop who put sugar in their coffee when they “specifically told them not to.”

They whine about people texting them late

into the hours of the night so they can’t sleep because they are just that popular, and they cry about the new changes to Facebook because it isn’t navigable at all anymore although it barely changed. They criticize the amount of money they currently have in their wallet because it won’t close, or they claim that because their iPod was stolen, they have nothing left to live for. They slander their parents because they got their laptop taken away along with the car keys, or they howl because they didn’t get the $600 Christian Louboutin pumps for graduation. Honestly America, what have we come to?

It is time to wake up and realize that Americans can cause positive changes in the world. They can help the individuals who are not as lucky and do not live a life of luxury.

As long as they step away from the computer or put down the phone and think about how great their lives are instead of griping about the miniscule, irrelevant problems they face in the greater scheme of things. People are dying of hunger, and we are crying about the full fat milk in our lattes, fearing obesity, or the fact that “our parents ordered sweet and sour chicken, when all we wanted was sesame chicken.”

Put things into perspective.

Americans have so much potential, but they must direct their energy away from triviality to purpose. All we can ask is that you think before posting to reflect on East and America as a whole. Don’t let Facebook or Twitter be your outlet to bitch. Be a better example of an American, and show there is more substance beyond materials.

“Serenity Moon,” is located at 1529 york, within three blocks of East High and dangerously close to the legal distance from a school (600 yards). completely legal, but in this community, built around a high school, dispensaries do more harm than good.

Our state is ranked fifth in the nation in terms of marijuana possession charges for people aged 12 to 17. At East High, since the dispensaries opened, drug related incidents at our school have multiplied five fold. There is

no arguing with the fact that developing a marijuana habit damages students much more than it could ever help them. Even the fiercest advocates for legalization would never suggest that a fourteen year old freshman ought to smoke. Unfortunately, that is the danger we leave ourselves open to by allowing this proliferation of dispensaries.

In the end, opening a marijuana dispensary is just easy money. And no, we are not suggesting that it be outlawed for everyone. That’s clearly unreasonable and unnecessary. We are concerned with the well-being of the East High community. Increased access to drugs inevitably means decreasing test scores, weaker athletics, and

a general lowering of standards for the whole school.

Increased numbers of dispensaries degrade our commercial spaces. The power that these businesses wield is great and ever growing. At some point, a foot must be put down. It has to be clear that this has gone too far. We must make it known that education is still valued above

profit, that academic pursuits matter more than drug use.

Whatever form the change might take, we feel this community as a whole must take a long hard look at what it wants to be, and decide if dispensaries are a part of that world. If nothing else, we ask that these places be moved at least a mile from our school.

[OPINIONS]

November 14th, 2011

page 10

The Hypocrite’s Manifesto

by Andrew Wise

opinionseditor mongst the rows of canned and bottled drinks in the 7-11 refrigerators, the Peace Teas stand with an air of pride. Emblazoned on the outside of the cans are images of 1960’s hippie archetypes protesting war and hate. They are rendered in bright colors, their smiling, sunglassed faces offering an invitation to join in their struggle. And the standout image, larger than all the rest: a hand with fingers extended in a peace sign. The cans seem organic, hand-made, and somehow right, as though buying one would support the anti-war, environmental, and anti-corporate movements of the ‘60s. The kid wearing the ‘make love not war’ t-shirt gives in, grabs the gleaming can, and takes it to the register.

What is the problem here? The outer surface of this beverage is blatantly hypocritical. Peace Tea is made by Hansen Beverage Company, a multi-national corporation that also produces Monster energy drinks. It is bottled and transported by Coca-Cola’s distribution system. There is nothing grassroots about it. It is created in the same massive factories as coke and many others, with all manner of chemicals and preservatives.

But the kid who wears the ‘make love not war’ tshirt doesn’t see the hypocrisy, just as he doesn’t see the hypocrisy in being angry about his grade in a class he ditched twice a week all year. He believes that massive corporations and factories are bad, but he still wears the Nikes and eats Snickers. He’s aware of the dangers of global warming, but he drives a five mile per gallon pick up truck.

Our generation has the opportunity to change things. We love to jump on bandwagons and join movements, but none of it means anything if we live lives rife with contradiction. Hypocrisy, at least in terms of student culture, stems from believing lies, from trusting the people that want to make money off

of a noble movement. Escaping hypocrisy means doing things for the right reasons, not just to be stylish, but to genuinely matter.

Gandhi is one of the few men in all of history to live a life free from hypocrisy. The man refused to break with his belief in non-violence, despite the injustices committed toward him and his people. On a less grand but still relevant note, the man made his own clothes and lived off his own land. His principles always prevailed over his self interest. No, the man was not divine or perfect, indeed no one is perfect, but he made a genuine effort to do what was right, not what was easy, and that is what frees a person from hypocrisy.

No, we may not all have the capacity to live a life like Gandhi. People are essentially self interested, and its much easier to live hypocritically and never admit to it. But I ask you, take a look at your own life and consider the inconsistencies between what you believe and how you live. Refuse to be exploited by profit-seeking corporations, analyze motives behind advertisements.

Instead of drinking tea with a protester on it, go protest something.

I admit, I fell for the Peace Tea. I used to drink it on a regular basis, thinking that it must somehow benefit the environment…or something. On a lot of levels, I might as well be the kid with the “make love not war” tshirt. But the difference is I now know that drinking the tea is wrong, that those colorful cans are churned out of the same corporate machine as everything else. I am a hypocrite, but I’m working on it. The fact is: corporations exist to make money, and they’ve made it clear they will do anything in their power to do just that. So we must ask ourselves, what do we exist for? In the end, people are defined by their principles, but if they fail to adhere to those principles, their identity is lost. By rejecting hypocrisy, we preserve who we truly are, what our society can truly be.

Cartoon by Jeremy Harker

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Move, B!#*%

Blocking the Hallways:

Enough’s Enough

by Sara Yates staffwriter

here are very few things in life that annoy me, but the one thing that really grates on my short-tempered nerves are those kids who block the halls. I don’t care why you’re standing there, I don’t care if you’re lost or your goldfish just died and you’re crying your eyes out on the floor, that’s what the bathroom is for, so move.

The beginning of the year is the worst, all these little freshies with their schedules out, and all huddled together like penguins in the Antarctic. Then they feel the need to stop and cluster around the stairs on all the floors; there is a reason teachers say that freshman should take the side stairs.

Freshmen aren’t the only ones that are bad at walking in the hallways, there’s always that kid that stops dead in the center of the hallway and talks with their friends. This I really do not understand. Are you incapable of talking and walking at the same time, is that a too advanced activity for you or something? If it is, you might want to practice at home.

Now here is the awkward part of hall blocking: about 87.93% of the time it is PDA that’s causing it, which is just weird (PDA means Public Display of Affection, not Personal Dental Assistant). For all of you young couples in the hall, I get that you want everyone to know that you’re dating or whatever, but there isn’t superglue on your hands sticking them together, you can let go when I’m trying to get through instead forcing me to maneuver myself awkwardly around you. Those of you who are in the hall who think it is okay to hug for a long period of time, guess what; it’s not. Especially

Proposed Yellow Lines

those who do it on the stairs, that just looks weird and strange and you should probably stop.

I know that a lot of the students here get annoyed with people standing around in the halls when you need to go to class, especially if you have to go to the first to the fourth floor or vice versa; however, there really isn’t all that much that you can do to fix it. I know that sometimes

you just want to yell and shove and push, but that really won’t get you anywhere.

If you’re standing in the middle of the hallway move to the sides so people can go around you. One of these days I’m going to make lanes in the hallways; dotted white line for passing, solid yellow line which you can’t cross over (that includes hugging across lanes), I might even put a parking lane for those

of you that need to stop and take a breather, some stop signs here and there, it would be pretty awesome.

In all seriousness, don’t stand in the middle of the hallways, limit the PDA, and walk faster. You all walk like you’re old with a broken hip. East High students, I wish you happy hallway travels.

photo by Chris Padgett

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We’ve published our opinions.

Now publish yours.

Contact us at articles@eastspotlight.com

[ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT]

November 14th, 2011

EAST MOM DROPS THE F-BOMB

by Jeremy Harker

staffwriter

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racy A. Hooker, mother of East’s varsity soccer player Sam Fields, is not your average rapper.

Last fall she walked into a coffee shop to meet with director Zorab Ovsepyan, who, with the help of Colorado Sound recently produced a music video of Tracy’s latest rap titled “F$$k The Economy”.

“I was not what he (Ovsepyan) was expecting to see,” Tracy recalls, “He was expecting a stereotypical rap artist and I was a tall, skinny, white woman, not in her 30’s.” Tracy hasn’t let stereotypes halt her passion for rap, and “F$$k The Economy” is a testament to her persistence.

“I chose rap as my medium because rap and anger work. I think my rap is raw and gutsy.”

Tracy has every reason to be angry. The recession of 2008 left her unemployed, frustrated with the economy, and ready to spit raps about everything wrong with the financial world. The music video of “F$$k The Economy” dropped on YouTube this past October and already has well over 2,000 hits.

When asked why she wrote the rap Tracy said, “It really comes down to the fact that I was unemployed. It reflects my experience with being unemployed. I believe that we all played a role in getting here. We bought cars and houses and other things. We expected returns on our investments that were really wacked out.” Her criticism of the economy is fresh and bold and she holds nothing back in her lyrics, explicitly criticizing wall street and bank managers for their role in the recession.

“F$$k The Economy”, is undoubtedly angry, and uses explicit language, but the point of the song is not the anger and the F-words, it is that the economy is screwed up, and it’s all of our faults. We all have a role to play in fixing it although our roles are not all equal.

Tracy hopes that her language doesn’t stop people from watching and commenting on her video. “F$$k The Economy” is meant to ignite discussion and activity, not foster conflict about her use of adult words.

Her song represents a great personal achievement for Tracy, and she hopes that it will contribute to the financial reform movement.

“This is a huge example of something that would be on my bucket list,” she says, “Ya know, I’m not ready to kick the bucket. I’m proud of making it happen. I would love to see it go around the world.” Tracy hopes that by producing this video, she can be an inspiration to her kids, if not now then later in life when they have an opportunity to achieve a big personal goal.

“F$$k The Economy” is many things: a social criticism and an example of broken stereotypes. Yet, for Tracy it is for her and for those who have struggled like her. “I wrote that song for many others. It’s a labor of love and it’s a work of art; it’s my art.”

The song by Tracy A. Hooker can be viewed on YouTube.

Hot or Not

by Emma Dargen

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page 11

WUZ ZLES

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e h

, d

G e h t CENTER d n a

Examing the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transexual, and

HHALO Hits Home I

By Natalia Dellavalle

magine this: a gathering crowd surrounds East High School’s central fountain.

In the center, a bully has chosen his victim. As books and papers float in the fountain, the bully repeatedly punches his victim in the stomach. “You faggot,” he yells, and with a final blow, he walks away.

Twenty years ago, gay kids were getting beat up at the fountain and the sexuality of lesbian characters in literature went unspoken during class discussions.

The expression “that’s gay” was a put down used countless times a day, and some parents refused to let their children attend overnight field trips with homosexual students. In response to this animosity, students of the lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) community created the Homosexual and Heterosexual Alliance for Leadership and Outreach (HHALO), the second high school Gay Straight Alliance (GSA) in Colorado.

“I knew that it was difficult for gay and lesbian kids to feel comfortable and welcome, so I wanted a place where they could feel safe and secure and talk to people without judgment. I saw that there were some cases in the school where there was intolerance and sometimes outright hostility,” explained Mr. Lucero, one of the sponsors of HHALO and an openly gay teacher at East. To support LGBT students, Mr. Lucero and drama teachers, Ms. Duggan, affectionately known as Mel, and Mr. Morr started HHALO. “Our first meetings were really hairy,” explained Mel. “Kids came and threw things at us through the door and yelled ‘faggot’ and ‘queer.’” However, the volatile meetings proved essential. HHALO eventually gained support from the East community and remains active today. In contrast, the first high school GSA in Colorado, at Smoky Hill High School, was forced to disband because of the arguments and violence it incited.

Duggan credits both the supportive community and the changing times for HHALO’s success. The AIDS epidemic beginning in the early 1980’s and the murder of Matthew Shepard in 1998 led to greater awareness of the LGBT community and the injustices it faced. More people began to come out of the closet and the LGBT community began to advocate for itself. “When people realized that their favorite movie star was gay or that their neighbor was gay, it began a national awareness, and that was wonderful,” Mel added.

HHALO’s success has led to increased respect for LGBT students at East.

“The sensitivity towards gay and lesbian people has really just been exponential,” stated Mel. “When we started, HHALO was a lot bigger than it is now because gay kids and their friends needed a safe place. They don’t need HHALO as much as they used to because East is a pretty safe place,” she added. Although great strides have been made at East, Mr. Lucero vows that, “HHALO will continue to exist” to support LGBT students and their friends and families until it is no longer required.

Mel Duggan, Mr. Lucero, and Mr. Moore fiought for justice everyday, providing a safe haven.

Suicide is not the Solution J

By Nick Brown

ustin Aaberg was only 15 years old when he died. He took his own life. Aaberg, a member of the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transsexual, Questioning (LGBTQ) community, was constantly bullied in school for his sexual orientation. He was one of five students from his school, Anoka High in Minnesota, who killed themselves in the same year; three of the five suicides were attributed to difficulties with sexual orientation. Yet, still to this day, the administration at his school refuses to get involved in bullying of homosexual students because they believe they should remain “neutral,” according to district spokeswoman Mary Olson. Stories similar to this are much too common around the country.

It is because of stories like these that the “It Gets Better Project” was started.

According to the project’s website, itgetsbetter.org, “In September 2010, syndicated columnist and author Dan Savage created a YouTube video with his partner Terry to inspire hope for young people facing harassment. In response to a number of students taking their own lives after being bullied in school, they wanted to create a personal way for supporters everywhere to tell LGBT youth that, yes, it does indeed get better.” That YouTube video was the beginning of a very big endeavour.

The website now offers more than 25,000 user submitted videos that have been viewed over 40 million times. Each video preaches a message of hope for members of the LGBT community who are struggling with bullying at school and at home. As you watch the videos it is clear that everyone offers a genuine and heartfelt message. Whether it’s a homosexual, their friends or Justin Aaberg killed himself at age 15. family, or even just a good person, the videos make it clear that it will get better.

People have certainly taken notice to the project’s efforts. Many celebrities have made a video offering their support. There are videos made by President Barack Obama, Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, Rep. Nancy Pelosi, Adam Lambert, Anne Hathaway, Colin Farrell, Matthew Morrison of “Glee”, Joe Jonas, Joel Madden, Ke$ha, Sarah Silverman, Ellen DeGeneres, Suze Orman, the staffs of Google, Facebook, Pixar, and many more. However, according to the website, “For us, every video changes a life. It doesn’t matter who makes it.”

There are also other benefactors of the It Gets Better project. One is “The Trevor Project,” which is a 24/7 support line for any LGBTQ child facing oppression or considering suicide. Another is the GLSEN:The Gay, Lesbian and Straight Education Network. This group works with schools to ensure that students of the LGBTQ lifestyle are safe and comfortable in their learning environment. The combination of these different projects is a serious aid in the fight to stop bullying against children and teens of various sexual preferences.

For all the teenagers who face the reality of bullying and hatred because of their sexual preferences, the web site is a real help. Teens can realize that there are thousands of people in the world who were in the exact position they are. It is clear through these videos that life after high school does, in fact, get better. Any high school student of the LGBTQ lifestyle or those that are straight should look at this website. Whether it is to gain confidence and learn that suicide is not the right choice or to offer personal words of wisdom, the sire is a great source of help.

In short, according to the site, “The It Gets Better Project wants to remind teenagers in the LGBTQ community that they are not alone — and it WILL get better.”

The

Fabu

lous B a d

Questioning (LGBTQ) Community at East High School

Who walks our Hallways?

The East High Spotlight surveyed 202 students about their opinion on the LGBTQ community at our school.

We found that...

4% identified as lesbian or gay, 6% identified as bisexual, 2% were transgender, 3% were questioning, and 85% were straight.

15% of people either agree or strongly agree the being LGBTQ is wrong.

77% of students support the LGBTQ community.

10% of students admit they the do not support the LGBTQ community.

80% of people surveyed said that they personally know someone who classifies his or herself as LGBTQ. 72% of students say they are friendly with a LGBTQ student at East.

25% of students either agree or strongly agree that they say “gay” in a derogatory way.

Gay Angels Feel Strangled J

By Ty Wagner

ack Brown is using a psuedonym because he would could never allow his name be printed in this article. He’s bisexual, but his father doesn’t know it. “If my father saw my name in an article claiming I am bisexual, not only would he not understand, he would disown me.” He recalled the day his dad threatened that he would kick out any family member who was gay. Jack is not alone. While many believe that great strides have been taken towards acceptance, these three East students explained why our community has a long way to go.

Chris Tucker, a gay male (also going under a pseudonym), is not completely out at school. He explained that “just because there hasn’t been outwardly directed homophobia, you can still definitely tell that it’s there within the student population, so why should I risk it?” Just like Jack, Chris has yet to come out to his father. “I don’t know if it’s that he would actually not be accepting. It’s just jokes where you can tell he’s uncomfortable with the whole concept,” he says. Sunny Thayer, the only student who did not wish to remain anonymous, came out in May as lesbian. All three students have experienced times where they feel hurt either at home or at school.

“Last year on spirit day we were going around to classes to tell people to wear purple and we went into a science class and as we were leaving I heard someone say ‘dykes’ in a really rude way,” Thayer, an active member of HHALO lamented.

Tuckers’ worst experience with homophobia came the first time the word fag was directed towards him. “At first I was shocked and it just grew into extreme hurt,” he explained.

Jack’s lowest point came during his freshman year. He explained that “I hated my dad. He couldn’t be more ignorant. I’ve become extremely depressed at times to the point that I’ve contemplated suicide.

I can’t even describe how terrible it is to feel threat-

ened by something within yourself.” Each of the students were deeply affected by the rash of homophobic related suicides during the past year.

“His [the deceased student’s] roommate had recorded him having a relationship with another guy and posted it on the internet. Like the situation was terrifying, and the aftermath was even more terrifying.

It was like how can someone do this? I just couldn’t… couldn’t think about it at the time,” Thayer recalled.

While she also acknowledged that “we are pretty shel-

“It’s almost like African Americans and the N-word. The big difference is white people don’t say the N-word but everyone will say ‘gay’ or ‘faggot’.” tered at East” Sunny says “we have a really big problem with language. It’s almost like African Americans and the N-word. The big difference is white people don’t say the N-word but everyone will say ‘gay’ or ‘faggot’” Tucker noted that “It’s a macho thing and it’s kind of an intelligence thing. They are ignorant. Especially the lax-bro kind of attitude at East- It seems like they kind of enjoy upsetting people.” He also believes that these undercurrents have led to a fledgling gay community at East. “At schools like GW and DSA obviously tons of people are openly gay and it just doesn’t really seem to be the case at East. It [the derogatory use of the word gay] just becomes a part of their vocabulary. I’ve definitely heard fag or faggot at school many times,” he noted. When asked if he would be more likely to come out if there was a stronger LGBTQ community at East he responded, “absolutely, yes.” Each student first felt alone while questioning their sexuality.

“I had no idea this (a gay community) ex-

Data gathered by Addie Sandvold and Ty Wagner

isted and I didn’t know there were other people like me,” Thayer remembers. “I was like, ‘What am I supposed to do if I am the only person like this?

Am I just supposed to be alone for the rest of my life?’ so that was really depressing.” Tucker believes that more awareness needs to be raised in order to minimize these kinds of struggles.

“I just think there should be more programs like HHALO at schools and in general because, for example those kids who committed suicide, it would have resolved itself to some extent if they had those types of systems,” Tucker proposes. Sunny explained the relief she felt when she discovered a community that was supportive of her.

She says “When I met people who were already out it was really cool because they helped me realize that I’m not alone. I had no idea that there was this whole community and when I found out I was like ‘Yes! I’m not weird!’” She went on to express her desire to strengthen this community, particularly HHALO at East, “We need more allies to show we aren’t just the gay club and are the club who just want everyone to feel accepted and to begin accepting ourselves.” In contrast, Jack and Chris are looking past high school for salvation.

“I’m just looking forward to getting out of school because in your adult life you get to choose who you are around more often and don’t have to hide as much,” says Tucker.

Jack is looking at the even bigger picture. “As an adult, I hope to become involved politically in order to advance the rights of all sexualities, including gay marriage. I just really hope there will become a time where everyone will be accepting and tolerant. Maybe then I won’t even have to be talking about this.”

Center Design by Saad Moosajee Center Layout by Nick Brown

[SPORTS]

November 14th, 2011

page 12

Angels Fly Past Eagles, Win 5A

by Keaghan Dunn-Rhodes sportseditor

photo by Daniel Hartman-Strawn

M

Junior Michael Jordahl balances the hard-won state championship trophy on his nose as Ashi Geberkidane looks on.

itchell Heinzeroth sprinted across Dick’s Sporting Goods Field holding the State Championship trophy above his head. Only this time, Heinzeroth and his fellow Angels weren’t playing catch-up. The East Boys Soccer team now stands alone as the best team in the Colorado.

“It was always a dream of mine to win, but I never thought it would actually happen. The team this year really came together,” said Senior Captain Heinzeroth.

Unity was an integral part of the Angel’s success this season. On a team devoid of any true star player, teamwork was the key to the state championship. In their remarkable playoff run, seven different players combined to score 11 total goals. “When it comes to soccer, you need eleven players on the field to win, not just one,” remarked Heinzeroth. “This year, everybody on the team understood that and from there we became family that we are.”

In the championship game versus Heritage, East’s incredible teamwork was on display once again. Juniors Caden Mackenzie and Austin Neureiter rifled shots into the back of the net early in the first half, with Mackenzie assisting on Neureiter’s goal. Mackenzie’s pass racked up the team’s total during the playoffs to an impressive ten assists.

Neureiter and Mackenzie, as well as Juniors Jeremy Tabor, Ashi Geberkidane, Ian Curtis, Marques McDonald, Matt Fitzgerald and Gage Odell have been playing together since the age of seven. As teammates on the Denver Soccer Club, and later, the Colorado Fusion, this group of players have had years to grow as teammates.

“We’ve played together for a long time. I feel that much more close to all of them, and I feel like I can predict what they are gonna do,” said Tabor. “I know their soccer as well as I know my soccer. Its good to have that closeness as a team.”

East Soccer by the Numbers

0 39

In-state losses this season Goals scored this season

0

Goals allowed by East’s defense in the playoffs

23

East’s national ranking (according to maxpreps.com)

Asutin Neureiter controls the ball versus Heritage in the final. Neureiter, a junior, scored one of East’s two goals in the game.

Exuberant East players run for the stands on after defeating Heritage 2-0 in the state championship game.

photo by Reid Neureiter

photo by Daniel Hartman-Strawn

Head Coach Beth Hinz’ Angels went undefeated at home this season.

Tabor and Heinzeroth led a defense that allowed zero goals in the playoffs, an almost unheard of feat. With an imposing back line, East’s defenders hardly ever let opposing players get a shot off, much less score.

But in the event of a shot, the Angels could rest easy, knowing who they had guarding the net. Junior goalie Marques McDonald, named MVP of the tournament, was the backbone of the Boys Soccer team this season, garnering accolades from teammates and foes alike. “It’s really encouraging to know that even when the defense lets something by, we have someone really strong in the back,” remarked Tabor about McDonald. “Frankly, I don’t know how he makes the saves that he does. It’s incredible.”

With only six players graduating after this season, next year’s team looks to be a force to be reckoned with. The Angels will head into next year with a target on their backs, one that they welcome with open arms.

“I cannot wait for next year. This year has shown that if you come together as a team and family, you can do just about anything,” said Tabor. “Family first, then soccer.”

photo by Daniel Hartman-Strawn

photo by Reid Neureiter

“This year has shown that if you come together as a team and family, you can do just about anything. Family first, then soccer.”

Posting an impressive 0.820 save percentage this season and allowing zero goals during the playoffs, junior Marques McDonald was a force to be reckoned with in front of the net.

November 14th, 2011

by Max Segal

[SPORTS]

DPL Out of It’s League

page 13

A lack of competition in DPL sports leaves East in a losing situation senioreditor

“

Last year was frustrating,” says senior midfielder Chris Carpenter. “It was hard for us to adjust to playing with the suburban teams because we had a one dimensional attack that was only effective against typical DPL teams.”

Carpenter’s frustration was a result of last year’s 5A soccer playoffs, in which East, who won the Denver Prep league and was seeded eighth in the tournament, was upset by a suburban foe. This was nothing new for Angel players who rack up regular season wins against weak DPS opponents in several sports but often find themselves under-prepared for more hardened opposition.

This year, at the end of the boys’ soccer regular season, two 5A teams stood undefeated within the state of Colorado: the Cherry Creek Bruins, who were ranked fourth nationally by ESPN Rise, and the Angels, who hadn’t seen the top ten of the state rankings all season, and a team who, during the regular season, weren’t even considered as an afterthought when it came to state championship conversations. Both teams posted impressive records, so what separates the two squads?

Cherry Creek plays in the powerful Centennial conference with second-ranked Arapahoe and an array of other opponents with winning records. East, on the other hand, plays in the Denver Prep League, a conference in which they can expect perhaps one close game a year and play the rest of their conference schedule against paltry programs like George Washington and Denver West. “When we play tough teams, we play up to their level, but when we play some of the teams within our league we tend to play down,” says Carpenter.

Athletic Director Andy Mendelsberg described one of the main reasons for suburban superiority: “Baseball, volleyball, and even soccer, the clubs are outside the city for the most part, so the suburbs get a little more of a benefit.” With club teams, high school sports have now become year round, and it’s hard for DPS athletes to keep up when most club teams are located far away.

Soccer isn’t the only sport that is hurt because of playing in a weak conference. In the past four years, the football team has qualified for the playoffs every year, but has failed to crack the 5A top ten and has not advanced past the first round of the playoffs. Like the soccer team, East football plays a host of teams that talent-wise are a class or two below, but are put into the same league as the Angels

by CHSAA. East’s top tennis squads don’t even play all their league foes; the Varsity 2 teams are left to do the dirty work. Angels’ volleyball, baseball, and softball routinely beat up on DPL squads to earn automatic bids to the state tournament only to get beaten by suburban teams. East is able to thrive in almost all sports during the regular season, but their results are often inflated due to the quality of league play, and teams are often not well prepared come playoff time.

Is it better to have a challenging regular season or acquire more wins against sub-par programs? “You want to play teams that are going to push you, but winning builds confidence. At the end of the day you want to have a balance,” said Mendelsberg Perhaps a conference move could provide this balance.

Such a move could help toughen up many East teams and might be attractive to incoming players looking to compete at a high level. Geographically, however, a move would not make much sense. Just four years ago, East did play football in another, more challenging league, but this caused many logistical problems. “We were stuck in a conference with Fruita and Grand Junction and it was kind of a nightmare,” Mendelsberg said. He also stressed the importance of remaining true to the city in the rebuilding process. “It’s really very important to rebuild our own programs, support each other and not leave our league,” he said. Perhaps

“East plays in the Denver Prep League, a conference in which they can expect perhaps one close game a year.”

Drawing by Jeremy Harker

A look at some of the football records of DPS teams this year:

North

4-6

Thomas Jefferson

3-7

George Washington 3-7 West

2-8

Montbello

2-8

Lincoln

1-9

a conference move is impractical, so where’s the fix?

Instead of a move, Mendelsberg suggests a more outside-the-box approach. “We can do creative scheduling where if you’re the first place team and you’ve shown over the years that you’re consistently in the top few, you don’t play maybe the bottom two teams and schedule other teams outside of the conference.” This is an interesting possibility, and East would be able to remain true to the DPL. However, this might not help the whole league get better. It would likely benefit only certain teams while never allowing cellar dwellers to see the light. The Denver Prep League may have to keep searching for ideas.

One sport that has consistently been competitive at the state level is DPL basketball, a group of teams ripe with talent. The league often sports multiple teams in the 5A top ten. George Washington has recently played in the 5A state championship, and Abraham Lincoln won at the 4A level a few years ago. East is a perennial contender and has one of the best guard prospects in the nation in sophomore Dominique Collier (ranked the 7th point guard in his class by ESPN). Why has East basketball bucked the trend and been able to compete at a championship level for so many years? The difference between basketball and other Denver Prep League sports is this: the DPL has tradition.

“Basketball is still rooted in the city,” says Mendelsberg. “It’s still a city sport. The best leagues and the best kids are here.” East’s own Rudy Carey played a large role in the sport’s roots. Carey has coached at three DPS schools in his career since it began in 1976: George Washington as an assistant and Manual and East as the head coach, where he has won eight combined state championships. “Coaches draw kids to any program, and Coach Carey is clearly a draw,” Mendelsberg said.

“A lot of DPS teams have been strong for years. Programs have to have a strong leader.” Throughout the DPL strong coaches and a winning tradition have helped bring talent into the league.

Tradition and consistency is what builds premier programs, and these traits are missing from several other Denver Prep League sports. If East and the rest of the DPL hope to get on par with suburban schools in several different sports, it starts with coaching. “Coaches are the number one thing. If you can get some draw coaches at some schools, kids will follow,” Mendelsberg says. “We have to do a better job at seeing who is in charge of certain programs.” At East, however, Mendelsberg feels East is on the right track. “We’re pretty comfortable with who the [football and soccer] coaches are, but both those coaches know that we can always be better.”

Mendelsberg is also optimistic about the rest of the DPL. “Most of our programs are pretty on track,” he says.

The key to the revival of the Denver Prep League starts with coaching. East may have some prominent, attractive names, but perhaps the rest of DPS needs to follow suit to make the DPL a tough league top to bottom. East students love to hate suburban kids, but it’s time for them to hate us.

Love Sports?

Follow us on Twitter: @denvereastsport Or on Facebook at East Spotlight: Sports

[SPORTS]

November 14th, 2011

page 14

A LIFETIME OF COMPETITION Teachers find an escape through sports

by Keaghan Dunn-Rhodes

Literature teacher Mr. Hoffer stands with his daughter before a game. In the last six years, Hoffer has reaffirmed his love for hockey after not playing since high school.

Band of Brothers

Soccer is a family affair for many East players

photo courtesy of Jeremy Hoffer

I

t’s Monday night at Big Bear Ice Arena in Lowry.

The dusty clock on the wall reads 9:30 as the players lace up their boots. Many teachers are at home grading papers, but not literature teacher Jeremy Hoffer. For him, 9:30 means game time. Never mind that he will probably get home at midnight, or that he has to teach six classes tomorrow. Playing ice hockey with some of his best friends on this cold night is worth it.

“I started to play ice hockey when I was about ten, and played on through high school,” Mr. Hoffer says with a grin, “but then I stopped playing for about twenty years. When I discovered that some of my friends had started to play in an adult league, I thought that I could start to play again too.”

Ever since taking up the sport that he loved throughout his early life once again, Hoffer has become a regular at Big Bear. He plays every Monday in an adult league for his team, “The Oblio’s,” as a defender.

“The guys on my team are all from different walks of life. Some are surgeons, some are dentists, some are investment bankers, and several of the guys on the team are teachers,” remarks Hoffer. “It’s really an interesting mix.”

Mr. Hoffer isn’t the only East teacher who cultivates a love for sports outside of school. Michelle Topf, a literature teacher, is an avid tennis player on the side. Like Mr. Hoffer, Ms. Topf played competitively through high school. However, she hadn’t picked up a racket since. Then she was approached with an offer to be an assistant coach for East’s tennis team. Soon after, Topf was offered a spot as doubles partner to none other than other literature teacher Flo Wagner,

sportseditor cementing her spot within the tennis culture between the teachers at East.

“After not playing for such a long time, the combination of coming back to coach and then playing with Mrs. Wagner made me love the game again,” says Topf.

Though both Ms. Topf and Mr. Hoffer spent up to twenty years away from their respective sports before picking them up again, their abilities never diminished.

Mr. Hoffer’s hockey team regularly advances to the finals of the Big Bear Ice Arena adult league. Ms. Topf competes in USTA regulated tournaments from March to October, and is consistently ranked as one of the top four seeds.

After playing sports for the majority of their lives, one would think that Ms. Topf and Mr. Hoffer may have replaced their fierce competitiveness with a simple love for the sport that persists regardless of whether they are winning or losing. Think again.

“I don’t like to lose,” says Ms. Topf with a fiendish smile. “Part of the problem is I am competitive by nature, so tennis is just a really good outlet for me.”

Ms. Topf ’s words ring true for Mr. Hoffer as well.

“Everybody on my team wants to win,” states Hoffer.

No matter how they fare though, the two teacher’s love for their sports remains. Topf describes tennis as a “life sport,” one that she can play at any age.

“You can always come back to it, and it always comes back to you,” remarks Topf. “I really hope to be one of those 80 year old ladies out there teaching the kids how to do it someday. I think it’s a sport you can always play.”

Taking Off the Mask East High jocks defy stereotypes

by Willow Turano

by Daniel Hartman-Strawn

staffwriter uccess in sports has always stemmed from as his brother, he still felt his brother’s influa vital skill: communication. A bond be- ence on his play: “He was always a centertween team members is essential to being able defender, and I started as a left-mid. But as to function, and nowhere is that tie stronger time went on, I slowly slid back into that than between brothers. Junior Forward Ashi position. I think that was partially because Geberkidane, a member of East’s varsity soc- his influence on my play caused me to fit cer squad, and younger brother, Sophomore into that position really well.” Simply from Cerake Geberkipracticing with his dane, know this brother and father bond well. “We in the park and synchronize really watching his brothwell. I would be er play, Peter grew dribbling up the a propensity for his field, and he would brother’s position. see me and know Sophomore where I was going Quincy Carpento go,” said Ashi. ter and his brother, Cerake also spoke Senior Chris Carto the sibling effect: penter, are both on “It’s helpful. If you varsity this year. have a brother, you Quincy enjoys behave great cheming able to play with istry. You know his brother, but also when to pass and realizes that ‘family’ where to move, is not just limited without even to his kin. “It’s [all] speaking, just from pretty much about the movement of brotherhood.

It’s their body.” not just between Chris and Quincy Carpenter are biologically related, but they The East team are also members of a larger family of East soccer players. my brother and I or has seen many any other siblings, brothers in recent history. Junior mid-fielder but the whole team, the whole program at Caden MacKenzie and his brother Miles, who East to be a part of this coalesced, really graduated in the class of 2011, played to- strong program. That what makes us play gether both on junior varsity and then varsity better.” last year. When Caden was younger, he had Despite their talk of synergy and workserved as the mascot for Miles’ teams, but had ing together, in the end they are still siblings. always yearned to join him on the field. Miles They fight, they make up, and they move was a highly proficient athlete, excelling at on. Despite a sibling rivalry, the brothers both football and soccer. Caden recalled his said that they aren’t too concerned about brother’s friends always telling him, “how I each other’s accomplishments. When asked would never be him, never be Miles Mack- whether he ever worried about his brother enzie, and I knew it. It was always a pushing catching up to him, Ashi replied immediatefactor.” That pushing factor is part of what led ly and confidently: “Hell no! I’m better! SeCaden to success on the turf, such as mak- riously though, he’s really good, but I’m not ing varsity as a sophomore and having seven scared.” Although Ashi may not be scared, goals and seven assists this year. other teams sure should be. The family that Adam Schreiber, the brother of Junior won the state championship this year will be Defender Peter Schreiber, graduated in 2010 even stronger next year with the addition of and also played varsity soccer. Though Peter yet another brother. never got the chance to play on the same team

T

he typical high school jock shoves nerds into lockers, is disrespectful to girls, and mocks teachers. Jabari Holland, a cornerback on the varsity football team, has never done these things. He defies the stereotype.

A wealth of athletic ability gives one a few advantages in high school. It’s almost a gift to be a naturally athletic kid; it gets you friends, status, and a jock title. These athletes usually get with the “in crowd” quickly, by carrying an attitude that they are running the school. In most high schools, the jocks are recognized through muscles, mid-calves, and huge egos.

Their

Another characteristic that separates East athletes from the usual is the drive to be a good student.

“I am involved in the National Honor Society, which keeps the pressure on me to do well in school,” says Connor Smith, a junior on the varsity tennis team. At East High School, students are required to visit the “study table” if their grades are not up to par.

The student may not par ticipate in athletic relate d activities until their

group of friends has one thing in common: a love of sports. The cliché high school athlete is not known as an intelligent student. They put so much of their time and effort into their sport, and forget that school is a place to learn, not just a social gathering.

Or so the story goes.

“I would consider myself a jock, but I am a student-jock,” expresses Holland. At East High, athletes are recognized for much more than just athletic ability. The East “jocks” are known as the cool kids, but have a friendly, intellectual aspect to their personality. They have a wide variety of friends.

“I have friends in all different groups at school. I have my friends that I’ve known forever, football team friends, and friends from my different classes,” explains Chad Hanna, a sophomore on the varsity football team. It can be difficult meeting kids outside of the sport you play, but for most East athletes, it is just a building block for meeting even more new people.

grades are up to standards.

Many East student-athletes rely on their friends and family for their success.

Their support keeps them energized and boosts their self-confidence. “My family gives me a lot of support and it makes sports feel more meaningful to me than it would if they weren’t there to cheer me on. Whether they are present at my games or they wish me luck beforehand, I can still feel their support,” says Smith.

“The balance between my social life, school, and friends is what I’m working on all the time,” conveys Matt Fitzgerald, a junior on the varsity soccer team, “Taking AP courses, having 2 hours of soccer practice every day, and still having a social life with my friends are hard to balance, but it can be done.”

These “jocks” are a great representation of East High School; popular, intelligent, athletic, well-rounded students. These are the East jocks, defying the stereotypes.

photo by Willow Turano

S

staffwriter

[FEATURES]

November 14th, 2011

page 15

Playground Torn Down But Memories Live On

by Joie Akerson featureseditor

J

unior Denise Meeker sits quietly in the back of her classroom, writing distractedly in a worn notebook a few minutes before her teacher starts to lecture at the whiteboard.

“Hey,” Meeker overhears another student say across the room, “Did you hear they’re going to tear down that big playground in City Park?”

Her head snaps up. With a quick glance out the window, she can see peaks of the purple palace just above the tops of yellowing trees.

Suddenly attentive, she recalls in a whisper, “That’s where I met my biological dad.”

For over a decade, children have leapt and slid and swung in the “zoo park,” a sprawling playground next to the Denver Zoo. Upon its building, the officially dubbed “Dustin Redd” playground was unprecedented in size and imagination. Since its opening in 1996, it has attracted hundreds of kids, dozens of birthday parties, and countless summer picnics and barbeques. But in recent years, Dustin Redd’s swings have begun to creak, the wood has started to rot, and the monkey bars don’t shine with quite the same fervor. And the city has begun to take notice.

Denver Parks and Recreation is beginning plans for a new playground to replace the aging Dustin Redd Playground, with hopes of

completing construction by 2013. The proj- in City Park to play with my dad.” The playect is estimated to cost five million dollars, ground became a neutral ground, a few acres and is expected to be “one of the largest of where the pair could push tensions from its kind,” according to a department state- their past aside and bond through games, ment. Though many Park Hill families and conversation, or even “caring for an abanCity Park neighbors are looking forward to doned goose egg.” the update, few will forget the original playMeeker considers her time in the purple ground that became one of the most popu- playground one of her happiest childhood lar features of City Park from the day it was memories. “Sometimes he’d just smile and built. watch me play on my own…like I was imDenise Meeker portant to him, like I “He’d just smile and watch me was his world.” is among its fans.

“I was adopted it has play...like I was important to beenThough when I was six days seven years old. My [birth] mom since she has seen her him, like I was his had a lot of kids and dad, her memories not enough money, so my siblings and I were from the park linger. Meeker, now an optitaken and separated by social services,” she mistic and bubbly 17-year-old, still relishes says. Meeker was adopted by a loving fam- their father-daughter time spent there. ily, and the struggles from her first family Sophomore Tristan Andersen is another quickly faded into the background. student who feels that the Redd space played “I have no contact with my mom or any a prominent role in his childhood. His atof my siblings anymore,” she says. But on a tachment to the playground began before it certain swingset in City Park, one remnant was a playground at all, when it was still in its of her past lingers with her: “My dad.” assembly stages. “My uncle helped build it as The Dustin Redd Playground was where part of a sponsorship by the car dealership he Meeker first reconnected with her biologi- works at,” he says. His uncle’s business subsical father. “When I was little, my [adopted] dized it’s creation with the hopes of creating parents used to take me to that playground “a new hang-out for families from all around

world.”

City Park.” Andersen remembers that it was a large community effort and “took a lot of time to build.”

Andersen’s family connection to the playground meant he spent a lot of time there as a child. Like a true playground connoisseur, Andersen remembers that he “wouldn’t settle for Turtle Park, Dinosaur Park, or the Monkey Park,” all of which were playgrounds near the Dustin Redd.

Andersen agrees with Meeker, who nostalgically notes, “It makes me sad that they’re taking the playground down. It connected me to my dad and, although maybe not it the same way, it connects other kids to their childhoods.”

But a bulldozer alone cannot sever the connections. The beloved wooden playground has created memories for 15 years.

The park has watched infants crawling before anxious mothers, and adolescents shouting playful taunts during games of tag.

It has seen toddlers testing the strength of their own lungs, middle schoolers playing MASH in the margins of notebook paper, and a young girl fostering a goose egg with her father. The park can easily be torn apart, but its stories are indestructible.

Bite-Sized Businesses

by Kahlia Hall

T

staffwriter

his isn’t your average hotdog stand. If you’re looking for a unique, flavorful option for lunch, then look no further. The Uber Sausage offers exciting choices like chicken apple sausage, bacon-wrapped bison hotdogs, and buffalo bratwurst. Lunch here will cost around eight or nine dollars. The Uber Sausage is a great option for anyone looking to try something different and have great food. There is nothing out there quite like it!

W

hich Wich offers more than 50 varieties of customizable sandwiches. From turkey, beef, and chicken, to the comfort foods and the classics, Which Wich has something for everyone. They serve breakfast all day and also include vegetarian, vegan, and low calorie options and are working on a gluten-free menu as well. A meal here will cost anywhere from six to ten dollars, but the money is well worth it. Which Wich is best known for their creative ordering system where guests use red sharpies to mark their sandwich selections on menus. Which Wich offers a fun experience and even better sandwiches.

T

his all natural eatery has gone world-wide with its new take on a typically unhealthy food: pizza. They use all natural, wholesome ingredients that include tons of good things like probiotics and prebiotics, yet still include the tasty options everybody loves. With fifteem toppings, five meats, and nine specialty pizzas, Naked Pizza is sure to have something for everyone. A pizza here will run anywhere from ten to seventeen dollars, so if it is shared shared between friends it is very reasonable.

Naked Pizza is a delicious, healthy alternative to other fast food.

M

ost people at East know Lauren Moseley for her crimson red hair and charming personality, but what they don’t know is how talented Moseley is as an artist, something that has often been overlooked because of her modesty.

Lauren Moseley’s career in the arts began in 6th grade when she enrolled at Denver School Of The Arts, majoring in stagecraft. It was through stagecraft that Moseley learned how to draw, as it was a key aspect of the Stagecraft major.

“A lot of the kids wouldn’t

Lauren Moseley

by Saad Moosaje

take it seriously, but I would end up staying one or two hours after school every day working,” Moseley says.

When Moseley transferred to East for her Freshman year, she enrolled in Drawing & Painting level two, and is now taking AP Studio Art as a Senior.

Moseley is well versed in the mediums of Acrylic, Graphite, and Charcoal, but specializes in using Prismacolor markers. One style Moseley is currently exploring utilizes Prismacolor markers to shade her realistic drawings with an unrealistic Lauren Moseley’s signature is experimenting with unusual color palates.

THE PARENT TRAP Teachers with children at East

by Poulami Wielga

pho to b y

C hr

iss P adge tt

staff staffwriter

I

page 16

Senior Pierce Vilkus and his mom, math teacher Emily Vilkus.

t’s the first day of freshman year. The worries of getting to class on time and blending in with the upperclassmen are a frenzied jumble in Pierce Vilkus’ mind. He spots some friends. Relief spreads across his face at the sight of familiar faces. But Pierce has yet to see an even more familiar face inside the building: his mom.

There are seven pairs of child teacher relations at East: Vilkus, Fitzgerald, Goldin, Massey, Flageolle, May, and Macmillan.

Opinions about having a parent-teacher vary from student to student.

“During freshman and sophomore year, I definitely didn’t like seeing my mom around.” admits Pierce. In addition to adapting to the already overwhelming transition, Pierce was often caught off guard by the added pressure of his mother.

More than once, now Senior, Pierce, has felt his cheeks burn as math teacher and mother Emily Vilkus’ voice rang with intentional words of embarrassment while he walked down the halls.

“She can be really obnoxious in the hallways.” Pierce laughs. While Ms. Vilkus’ presence wasn’t always welcome in Pierce’s school life, over time the feelings of embarrassment have subsided to a more reasonable level.

Conversely, current sophomore and son of Spanish teacher Esteban MacMillan, Collin MacMillan finds the presence of his father around East to be of little importance. When asked if he wished to be like his dad, Collin simply replied with, “I’m my own person. I don’t think about those things.”

Not in the least impeded by his father’s exuberant reputation, Collin roams the hallways of East High School just as any other ordinary student does. Interactions between father and son are quite similar both at home and at school with only one exception: “I don’t know what to call him, so I just call him mister,” Collin explained.

Sitting in his father’s Spanish class, Collin watches as the humorous comments made by his father slip past the other students in the room.

“I’m the only one who gets his sense of humor,” he says.

Other students often ask sons and daughters of teachers for help to boost their grades in that class. Take for example, Pe-

sos; treasured by all students involved in the Spanish department. Often favors are asked of Collin to steal the valued Pesos or else to make counterfeit replicas.

“I’m not gonna spend the five hours it takes to make pesos,” Collin laughs.

It’s just another Spanish class, but in this one, both MacMillan’s are in attendance.

“I make a point not to make Collin stick out in my class,” remarks father, Esteban MacMillan. Wishing to neither humiliate or show special treatment towards his son, Mr. MacMillan goes on with class normally.

Known for his unique and lively personality around school, Mr. MacMillan’s reputation if anything has only positive effects on son Collin.

“I’ve heard some people call him Lil’ Mac!” he says with a grin.

Mr. MacMillan sees no disadvantages to having a parent around school, but he admits that he himself wouldn’t like being in his own parent’s class.

“I would just hate to hear bad talk about my parent,” Mr. MacMillan says.

Realizing that not all of his students may be his biggest fan, Mr. MacMillan understands that it may be difficult to hear other students discuss his father’s style of teaching. Overall, Mr. MacMillan finds his interactions in class with Collin to be stable.

Ms. Vilkus has a irrepressible personality as well and doesn’t hold it back in calss.

“I try to be funny when I teach. I figure the kids will remember more if they’re having a good time,” smiles Vilkus.

She recognizes that this would be the one reason Pierce may not like to be in one of her classes. No one wants to see their parent make a complete fool out of themselves. “...But if the kids are learning, I figure why not?” states Ms. Vilkus with confidence.

Pros and cons come as a package deal.

“If you forget your lunch money or need to get a last minute permission slip signed, it’s very convenient. But also, I’m really in the loop. As teenagers, this usually isn’t what you want,” comments Ms. Vilkus.

While embarrassment inevitably exists, knowing that their parent’s support is available both at home and at school comes as a reassurance. Parent-child relationships appear tough at first glance but with time and patience, the Vilkus and MacMillan pairs prove to be compatible both at home and

school.

By Emma Dargen

color palette “I really like using the markers to introduce unexpected colors into my drawings.”

The AP Studio Art course requires each student to submit a total of 29 pieces at the end of the year.

In only three months Moseley has already produced 15 new pieces, more than anybody else in her class.

The course also requires that 12 of the pieces are centered around a distinct ‘concentration.’

Moseley selected fashion for her concentration stating “the only thing I enjoy more than drawing is

photo by Austin Woolfolk

onth:

f the M Artist o

[FEATURES]

Crossword Puzzle

November 14th, 2011

staffartist creating dresses.”

Despite being so passionate about art, it was only when Moseley’s brother enrolled in the renowned Pratt Institute of Brooklyn that she began to consider art school for college. With only a few months left before application deadlines, Moseley has declared The Otis College of Art and Design her top choice.

Regardless of where she goes to school, it is clear that Moseley’s art career will continue to flourish thanks to her strong compositions, keen sense of line, and incredible modesty.

[FEATURES]

November 14th, 2011

page 17

Mason Weiss, Ben Schwartz, Ruby Pierce, Rebecca McGehee are a few standouts.

photos by Melody Duggan

Tucker Lewis and Dennis Young as the butlers add humor throughout the play.

Ben Schwartz and Rebecca McGehee playing the devious Earnest and his love affair, Gwendolyn.

Mason Weiss, Caroline Roberts as Algernon, Cecily hug the relenting Lady Bracknell.

To Be Completely “Earnest...”

by Aubin Fefley

A review of the lastest East production staffwriter

T

he dictionary defines the word “earnest” as 1) serious in intention, purpose, or effort and 2) showing depth and sincerity of feeling. Surely, this is a good addition to anyone’s vocabulary, but it hardly seems like a good basis for a full play. I must admit I walked into the theater expecting another adaptation of a show more suited to a literature class than the stage. To my great surprise and enjoyment however, East Theater Company’s production of The Importance of Being Earnest, by Oscar Wilde, was nothing short of great.

The play follows the story of Jack, who has developed a double life in order to escape his responsibilities and reality. Jack falls in love with the charming Gwendolyn Fairfax -- but he does so as his double, Earnest. Jack’s friend, Algernon Moncrieff does the same with a young girl, Cecily Cardew, also under the moniker Earnest. Herein lie the hilarious plot twists and predictable moments that define this type of show, but it works, because this is a classic comedy of mistaken identity.

Throughout the play Oscar Wilde, arguably one of the most famous satirists of all time, effectively builds up the social restraints and then has his characters humorously annihilate them. He touches on themes such as social rebellion against the prim and proper Victorian setting and the triumph of love over social disapproval.

At first glance, the first in a series of impeccable sets is an ornately decorated living room, from a silver tea to the delicately painted portraits on the walls. The seating area and performance space were confined to the main stage of the East auditorium, making a very close-knit environment. This, I came to find, was both a blessing and a curse.

When I arrived, most of the seats in the middle section were taken, so I took a seat on the side. That was a mistake. Although the close quarters of the actors kept everyone more engaged and made the audience feel as though we were part of the action, I kept finding myself moving

my feet to avoid becoming an obstacle. At one point, my whole row decided to scoot down a bit to avoid blocking the way backstage.

The first five minutes of a show often make it or break it, either grabbing the attention of the audience or losing it entirely. It’s safe to say Earnest did the former, lampooning marriage and rich people before I had even settled into my chair. The first character to be introduced is the illustrious Algernon Moncrieff, played by Mason Weiss, who remained a standout throughout the entire production. Algernon is quite well-off and living in London as the story begins. As Algernon, Weiss radiates a certain air of fun and mischief that carries his character quite well throughout the show, especially when it is revealed that Algernon’s visits to the bedside of his sick friend Bunbury are really excuses for him to leave his pompous lifestyle for a little while. Such so-called “Bunburying,” or using a double life in excuse for absence, becomes a major theme as it is revealed that Algernon’s friend Jack, played by Ben Schwartz, is also guilty of double identity with the title Earnest. Gwendolyn Fairfax and Cecily Cardew, played by Rebecca McGehee and Carolyn Roberts, respectively, are both very much in love with Earnest Worthing, though neither knows that the man in question does not really exist, and that they are engaged to two separate men: Jack and Algernon.

One subplot of sorts exists with Algernon’s middleaged aunt, also Gwendolyn’s mother, Lady Bracknell, portrayed brilliantly by Ruby Pierce. Lady Bracknell has a sense of propriety as large as the voluminous hats that seem to be her trademark, and Pierce captures this perfectly. When Jack, who is hoping to marry Gwendolyn confesses his humble origins: he was found in a handbag in a railway station, Lady Bracknell’s absolute distaste is so wonderfully evident in her voice and body language, that her actual words are of little consequence.

Another background storyline is that of Cecily’s governess, Miss Prism, played by Callie Vaught, and Reverend Chasuble, played by Jordan Rudman, recruited by both Jack and Algernon to rechristen themselves as Earnest. In my opinion, this relationship had endless potential, most of which went unused. What should have been an adorable flirtation between him and Miss Prism was reduced to pure awkwardness, and their kiss in the end seemed entirely out of place. Vaught was very well cast in the character of Miss Prism, but regretfully, her affected accent was at times hard to understand.

Costumes and props, I thought were very well done, although nothing stuck in my head as extraordinary.

Miss Prism, however, was a perfect example of how much makeup can add to a production. The unfortunate beauty mark on her cheek successfully catapulted Vaught from high school actress to prim and proper spinster. Before she even spoke, the audience was captivated by this strange old woman and apt to follow her every move to see what this strange lady would do.

One annoyance lies with the use of sound from backstage. Though very “sentimental,” Algernon’s piano playing was too loud. I found myself leaning forward awkwardly in my seat to catch the words of the actors over the music.

Overall, I can say that I enjoyed The Importance of Being Earnest immensely. The ending, when everyone ends up with their beloved isn’t tiresome but rather expected.

With equal credit going to Oscar Wilde and the cast, I grew, over the course of two hours, to really care about the characters, and anything but success on all counts would have been a letdown. And on the subject of success, Earnest is, in my only slightly biased opinion, far superior to most high school theater. I can say, completely earnestly, that everyone did an excellent job, and that I look forward to seeing more ETC shows in the future.

November 14th, 2011

[REAR END]

page 18

Puttin’ the Racy in Literacy by padgettqueen

The following is an excerpt from the play...

A dramatic interpretation of a day in the life of the teachers of East by lame-o’connell

photo by Gabe O’Connell

staffwriter

The following is a dramatic recreation of what may or may not occur within the daily lives of East High teachers.

No teachers were harmed in the making of this play.

F

ade into the sun, majestically beginning its steady ascent over the harsh and breathtaking peaks of the Rocky Mountains. As the camera begins zooming out, one can begin to make out downtown Denver seated comfortably below, until, after zooming out further, a windowpane becomes clear, dawning a realization that the setting is indoors. The camera pans, revealing a small lounge, the East High teacher’s lounge in fact, complete with a few small clusters of puffy eyed, hunched over teachers. An air of sinister weariness pervades the room.

Mr. Madison: Come on people, we’ve been over this before. When you finish the coffee (camera pans to Madison, disgruntled and with an empty coffee pot brandished in his hand) you replace the filter. I mean, yeah the thing’s automatic, but it’s not a roboMr. Markson: (From table, papers strewn everywhere) I replaced the filter last night. (Looking up) Chill, man.

Mr. Madison: Ohhh, sorry, I guess I didn’t mention that after replacing the filter (speaking slowly and sarcastically, as if to a child, demonstrating with his hands. The viewer can see the digital clock displaying ‘7:04’ in red, drowsy numbers) we press the “on” button, this green one right here.

Coach Karsh: (Entering the shot) What seems to be the problem ladies?

Mr. Markson: Madison’s all hot and bothered over the coffee again.

Mr. Madison: Exactly, again. The fact that I’ve had to tell you fools so many times…

Mr. Seaholm: (Entering abruptly) Hey Madison, why don’t you and Mr. Coffee go get a room or something?

(Laughing loudly at is own joke, the other men regard him with strange expressions, before awkwardly dispersing) Yeah, swag.

Mr. Chimento: (Spotting Seaholm at the coffee machine, eagerly stumbling over) This seems an excellent time for my renowned coffee lecture, you see, wheMr. Seaholm: You guys! Hey, where are you guys going? (He bustles off to rejoin the other three, leaving Chimento, mouth agape, paused mid-speech) Mrs. Noble: Who brought cake? (Camera pans to the other side of the room where a half eaten cake sits in the center of a small group of teachers, devouring greedily off paper plates) Mr. Grover: (walking over) It’s my birthday.

Señor Geisel: Feliz Cumpleanos!

Mr. Grover: Yeah, no comprende. (Geisel walks off, dejectedly. Mrs. Noble cuts a slice for herself, and a few more hungry teachers reach for seconds. Mr. Hoffer enters, and joins the cluster surrounding the Cake) Mrs. Noble: Jeremy! Want some? It’s choc-olaaate!

(Practically singing this last syllable) Mr. Hoffer: Oh, no, thanks for the offer, but I gotta watch the ol’ waistline. You know how it is.

Mr. Ajluni: (Emerging from the cluster) Ahh, come on man, kick back. It’s crazy moist. (Starts shoving a slice in Hoffer’s face. Finally, begrudgingly, Hoffer accepts.

The group of teachers stand eating for a long, unbearably awkward moment, the silence broken only by the occasional sound of a fork scraping a paper plate. Mr. Goldin enters, and the teachers - eager to break the silence - rush over, greeting him with full mouths. Goldin, seeing the relative mob stumbling towards him, shakes his head, spins and quickly exits without saying a word. The teachers stop, glance at themselves, back to the plates in their hands, and continue eating) Mr. Grover: Nice… uh, weather. (A few teachers glance out the window, see the relatively overcast skies and patches of old, muddy snow, and nod) Mrs. Noble: Yeah, for sure.

Mr. Hoffer: Definitely.

Mr. Ajluni: (Sniffing noisily) Is that… smoke? (The other teacher’s begin sniffing and start mumbling their consent when suddenly the lounge microwave bursts into flames. They stare mindlessly for a moment until the fire alarm begins blaring deafeningly, and then begin putting down their plates and stumbling out the door) Mr. Madison: Is today Thursday? (Speaking to Ajluni as they walk to the nearest stairwell, the alarm still sounding) Mr. Ajluni: (After thinking for a moment) I think it’s Wednesday. (Mr. Madison stops, bangs his head on a locker repeatedly, then sighs and continues walking. As they round the corner and exit the shot, one can continue to hear their footsteps echoing, getting more and more distant, as the smoke outside the lounge begins to thicken and one can begin to hear the faint sirens of fire engines approaching. It’s clear that the fire isn’t bad enough to cause any actual damage, yet it will leave the lounge smelling like smoke for weeks. The cheery melody of a piano set in its upper octaves begins to play as the sirens approach, then the scene slowly fades out into the snowy winter day, illustrating the depressing truths that are our teachers’ lives.)

End Scene

photoeditor fter 15 years in the tank, new rap icon Tawdry Racketeer, or TR, has revolutionized the music industry.

His shirts are seen all around town with lines from his songs such as “You must be sure to apply erudite persuasive technique with regard to your lifetime partner” and phrases of that nature. His risqué new methodology to the way rhymes are written is astounding the populous and trumping any that stand in his way. Whilst listening to his words flow, one can notice a strange new vibe in the form o f what most other rap stars lack, literacy.

This literacy involves the incredible new concept of grammar, vocabulary, correct pronunciation, and most of all, integrity.

TR has a very interesting back-stor y.

“I was condemned to the state pen for about fifteen years.

It all commenced when my twelfth grade, remedial English teacher was speaking to me in a rude tone, so I hurled a capacious object directly at her clavicle.” He looked away with a sad look on his face and then stated, “ S h e was hospitalized and I went to prison without a trial.”

His jail time was hard at first, but a few months in he found a new friend, “ T h e Merriam-Websters dictionary,” says TR with a smile on his face, “it was my o n l y companion in those lonely cells, and the only thing that could fill the gaping hole I received from the showers. The whole in my heart that is. After seeing all of those whimsical words I couldn’t help but fall in love with the ways I could juxtapose them and have them fit together.”

TR’s extensive vocabulary and utter lack of modern morals makes his lyrics a strange and beautiful combination.

“I rhyme about the same things as other mainstream rappers, such as currency, dames, and driving luxurious automobiles, I just say it in a more sophisticated, urbane way.” And indeed he does, with lyrics like “As a general rule, I perform deviant sexual acts with women of all kinds, including but not limited to those with limited intellect, nude magazine models, and prostitutes. Although I am extremely unattractive, I am able to engage i n these types of sexual acts with some regularity. Perhaps my sexuality is somehow related to my fancy and expensive jewelry.” It’s no wonder this man is inspiring the youth of today, it’s as if even though his flow doesn’t rhyme, its sheer intellect makes it beautiful.

This transition in literacy, due to TR’s influence, is being seen all over the place, even in our own East High School. Just months ago while walking down the halls of East one would hear shouts of “Wassup gurl!” or, “Waddup my homeboy, how it be in da hood?” Yet now your ears will be caressed with inoffensive callings such as, “Hello respectable homosapien of the female persuasion.” Or, “How is it going my African American brethren from my similar local vicinity?”

This new wave of love of literacy spreading through young adults is a ray of sunshine in the future of America.

Call it sophisticated ignorance, rap that white people can understand, or just an outright plague of vocabulary, this new fad isn’t going away any time soon.

A

photo by Chris Padgett

Lounging in the Lounge

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[REAR END]

November 14th, 2011

page 19

Planking Phenomenon Leaving Fans on the Edge of their Boards

by big-foot’s-harry-son

E

arly one spring morning some odd 23 years ago, Ouwt K. Aste had concocted yet another plan to live up to his common title of “attention whore.” As he left his apartment, he walked down 5thAvenue gazing around for a nice looking ledge. He arrived at a busy intersection and spotted a bench. People at every corner began staring intensely at the man who seemed to be lying in a rigid, motionless position, face down with his hands at his sides across the bench. On this typical day, Ouwt K. Aste became known as the first man in history to plank.

Since then, planking has been frowned upon as a fad until recently when, less than a year ago, the National Association of Plankers, or NAP, was founded by the creator, Aste, and has gradually become one of the most successful sports leagues in history. After months of petitioning, they finally found themselves in the pros among the NBA, MLB, and NFL. Various competitions take place annually such as the Planklympics and the X-Planks proving that the fad has progressively stood tall throughout the criticism. “I just don’t see why people are so

fond of watching their peers do something that involves no skill whatsoever, they lie on the freaking ground,” states Sheila Lutz.

To correct her ignorance, Moti O. Neless counters stating that it “does take a lot of skill, patience and endurance to lie completely still through rain, snow, sleet and hail to win the glorious carved wooden trophy in the end.”

During these competitions, there are events such as “hide-and-go-plank” where teams search for their missing planker in a designated area. Depending on the perimeter, this event can last up to 4 days. Another popular event and one of the more dangerous ones is the “human jenga.” In this, there is a stack of people in the form of a life size jenga tower. Each team has their own robot claw that pulls teammates out and whoever collapses the tower loses. In the early stages of this events development there were a few casualties but as mattresses have begun to pile around the tower, it has dropped from a rate of about 74 deaths per game to a mere 37! As the deaths have dropped a significant amount, human jenga has worked its way up to one of the safer events held during these competitions.

Planking has become so popular that it

rear end editor

has trickled its way down to a high school level. East being among one of the first schools to establish a planking team, it seems as if the entire NARP (non-athletic regular person) population has lined up for tryouts. One student, Lei Z. Bums, exclaims with great excitement, “When I heard about the team I wasn’t too thrilled but then when someone said it was a CHSAA approved sport I was immediately at the front of the line. Now being on the planking team I don’t have to worry about taking gym my senior year! WAHOO!!!!”

Captain of the East planking team, Loggy Flatts, on the other hand, puts extreme emphasis on the importance of planking practice. “During Planking Practice we drill position one with the intensity of a lion taking out an antelope in the nighttime while its’ snowing flamingos! We may go an entire practice without even twitching a finger!” When asked what the other positions were, he responded, “What other positions, this isn’t confusing like all of your field fairy and court cyclops sports. It’s as simple as sleeping. But it’s not! It requires tremendous focus and determination. It could be the most intense sport known to man.”

Though the team works extremely

Apple Finally

Protestors crumple over

by big-bad-barton

F

urious and disheartened protesters complete with iPod touches bearing slogans like 4s is not 4us’, mounted on barbeque stained kabob sticks left over from last night’s camp out and speakers booming chants that were prerecorded into iTunes, vigorously pressed buttons on the streets, trying to make a statement.

Among the protesters was East High sophomore, Maya C. O’nection, “Omg, this is not an lol prob,” she said while simultaneously updating her Facebook status, and banging on her Ipad 2, using an excruciating amount of energy in a pathetic attempt to beat level 169 of Angry Birds, “it is the end of the world, and I will be lacking connection into the 21st century.” Her body began to tremble and shake as she gasped with fear yet still in a rage, “There is no iPhone 5, and my contract will expire soon – what will I nourish my soul with?”

To help ease the pain of the turtle speed 4G internet, protestors indulged in mezcal (the creepy tequila with a worm), only a slightly modified version; the alcohol is absent, and replaced with water. “We cannot get drunk,” says O’nection, “or we won’t be coordinated enough to tweet about what is going on.” For O’nection the worm is symbolic, “Steve Jobs has kept Apple from being wormed.”

Her mannerism changes as rage leaves her face, is replaced with melancholy, “And now the savior - Steve Jobs is gone, I will never have a 5,” she begins break down, and salty water droplets in the shape of little apples fall from her eyes, “and we were supposed to have the iBrain together. I was supposed to be the mother of the invention that would solve humanity’s problems.” According to O’nection, the iBrain was supposed to be like an iPhone,

except you could control it with your mind.

“Only instead of you thinking about what to do,” she says excitedly, “it reads and controls your mind. No more thinking – imagine that! But now that the messiah is gone, and this revelation will never be…”

In her depressed mental state O’nection gets up to shake off the tears, only to bump into some fellow protesters causing her to spill water all over the precious unwormed technology and, even worse, the glass screens shattered into pieces. The glass was supposed to be unbreakable and able to withstand many things including bombs, pythons, the killer Chihuahua down the street, people slashing on the screen with an actual saber because they literally believe they are the fruit ninja, - 927 F weather, and - the most horrifying threat of all - the little old lady who tries to smash it with a cane, because she’s blind and thinks it’s a bug. Yet somehow the screen could barely survive the three foot plummet.

hard during their 6-hour practices, they are not yet competing at the professional level. According to CHSAA, they will cut off planking entirely if someone dies.

Flatts responded, “It is unfortunate that we can’t compete at the level that our lord and savior Ouwt K. Aste intended when he first started planking back in the day. It would be an honor to meet the messiah.

I pray to the shrine I made for him every night; he truly is the world’s most interesting man...not that dumb beer guy. But with my determination I am sure that I will start being recruited by colleges very soon, I hope. Please, in the name of Aste...” The interview was cut short as he fell to the ground weeping for a chance in the pros while murmuring some strange dialect, later revealed to be Asteinity.

As this fad has slowly climbed or planked its way up to the pros, plankers worldwide are on the edge of their boards worshipping Aste. A single act can influence many, (someone important must have said that once, or something along the lines of that) even if that act is a simple stiffness in one’s body with your arms by your sides while lying down in what is know commonly known as the plank.

Wormed

messiah’s death staffwriter Enraged that O’nection had destroyed the last technology they would ever own that was inspired by Jobs, the protester soon formed a mob, chasing her down stealing her iPhone 4, and computer however she managed to escape with her iPad. “I am almost died. They used my iPad to challenge me to karate, and there was a guy who was a virtual karate black belt! He cyber kicked me!” rants O’nection.

Soon after, O’nection called the police and all of the accused cyber bullies were taken to jail, under accounts of attempted manslaughter, but the protesters are expected to be let off, only to have their remaining unharmed Apples confiscated by the state.

However, O’nection will potentially face lifetime in prison for destruction of the protesters’ Ipads.

It seems there is hardly anyone that is unaffected by the recent events. The rate of complete panicky breakdowns has risen 420.69% in the first month alone since Jobs’ death. Freshman Juan D. Iring has not only taken the news of this tragedy to heart, but to his feet. He has taken to roaming the allies near Detroit Street, looking for something to take away the pain.

“My dreams have died along with Jobs. I have no purpose, without him to create my life!” Iring wept as he crawled up in his cardboard box near the dumpster he now calls home. photo by Chris Padgett

[REAR END]

November 14th, 2011

page 20

Oh the People You’ll Meet on Facebook... by magicmarker A re you afraid to login to your Facebook because of the ambushing posts of meaningless hipster lyrics and Glee synopses? Are there never-ending comment brawls taking up your notifications?!

How about those heart spilling friends who describe their meaningful relationship in just one status? TBH’s with full descriptions of that one night you don’t remember? Who cares to see how great a complete stranger’s weekend was? Wouldn’t it be nice to just say hello to your great grandmother without all this fear!? The Rear-Enders will guide you to clarity.

People to obliterate from your “Social Network:”

Sympathy Seeking Scarlet

Baby Face Gertrude

*Endless supply of Wonder Bras *11 albums titled “me!!!!1!!!” in 6 different languages; all photos photoshopped, captioned- “and no makeup” QUOTE: “i live for the nights i can’t remember with people i won’t forget hella just woke up. #BombNight #Goodmorning<3” Why You Should Delete: Good ol’ Gertrude’s explanation gives it all up. How many 6th graders do you know have a Facebook and access to Victoria Secret’s top pusher-uppers?

*Dated 374 guys in the past year and none have lasted more than 2 days *Has a Tumblr, Twitter, Blogger, Myspace, Youtube and Facebook that is updated about 47 times per day. Each. *If she gets her phone taken away in school she has a back up *Loves to be vague enough to catch people’s eye QUOTE: “Done with everything. “ Why You Should Unfriend: At one point of the “friendship” , Scarlet was a real hoot;the person you could click to when you needed some cheering up or proof that your life was half –decent. The posts aren’t funny anymore.

There is a boundary that has been crossed too many times to count whether it’s boy toy troubles or the 5 minute fight with her sister and the 10 minute make-up with her sister? TMI as

Abuhgayle Abbrevi@tion

*Can text 40 mpm (messages per minute) *Updates status’ within a 2 hour time span allowing all to know she hates eggs.

QUOTE: “omg lolfmao i just cant git enuff hun-cal fro yp. alwayz&4ever<3” Why You Should SMACK that Unfriend Button: When have you ever understood what Abuhgayle was talking about? When have you ever even spoken to the girl? Have you noticed the fact the NO one comments on her lame status’; that’s because no one cares. Gud by Abuhgayle

Controversial Cedrick

Fabrizio, the Freaking Foreign Guy

I

staffwriter

*Facebook Troll *Enjoys a good brawl over the keyboard every night before hitting the hay *Hasn’t played sports since his traumatic experience in Girl’s Body Works class QUOTE: “Our generation is too sexual. I’m going to start slang to be pleasant. DTF will henceforth stand for Down to Frolic.”

Why You Should Delete: This kid is a hermit at the age of 16. That’s a first. Maybe he is a reincarnation of some freak philosopher from Ancient Greece but that doesn’t mean you should believe his strange thoughts…

*1 profile picture… of Homer Simpson *requests people out of his area for “research” *enjoys “liking” every photo on a friend’s profile QUOTE: “Shlurfin pursp acken sholtzen goffen acht.” <Translation: “Grease is a man’s best friend.”>????

Why You Should Delete: Obviously, you have never met Fab and not in “past life” as he claims. Keep in touch with friends, not complete strangers…Leave the pen pals to the creeps on Myspace.

t has come down to this, click it. Feel the relief of the “Unfriend” Button. Take a 2 and a half deep breaths. You’re probably wondering, what if the nightmare requests me again?!

First day, pretend you don’t even see it. Next day, same thing. People have a short-attention span, so deny it without a doubt! Don’t feel any guilt, eat a Kit-Kat and forget about it! If you’re really worrying about the fact that you now have about 60 less friends on Facebook then stop reading this guide and reach out to the first person you see and give them a good wink and a tip of your hat; that’ll get you some new buds.

Horoscopes

by a-collaborative-booty

rearendfolk

Aries

Taurus

Gemini

Putting water in pomegranate juice doesn’t make your cocktail a pomtini.

I know how much you love Thanksgiving, but it probably isn’t the best idea to blend all the food together regardless of if you got your wisdom teeth out or not.

I see you being very generous to a certain school news paper in the future.

Leo

Virgo

Your swag levels are off the charts this month!!

Libra

You will end up looking like or marrying a man who has the appearance of Controversial Cedrick above if you blink at 12:47 tomorrow.

Scorpio

Take extreme care while carving the turkey this year, you don’t want to end up with another tomb stone in your backyard.

See Aquarius Cancer

You might not want to shoot for the stars because if you succeed, they’ll die.

Sagittarius

Capricorn

If you hear a vacuum turn on this month, run!! Whatever you have to do just get the hell out of there!!

Apples aren’t the only things that are poisonous, you might want to stay away from the Tofurkey.

“Rear End” Disclaimer

See Cancer Aquarius

Pisces

I know how much you love fish, but seriously, you’re supposed to eat turkey on Thanksgiving man. Not shrimpurkey or tunaurkey or any type of fishurkey!!

The nonsense included in the “Rear End” section does not represent the views of the Spotlight staff, the editorial board, the sponsors, the people under the stairs (literally), the pep rally despite how lame it was, the characters from dragon tales, or that guy over there. The point is, the “Rear End” is intended for comedic effect and should not be taken seriously.