o&b2011issue5

orange&black the

Flying high

Students and players show class and pride against FMHS on Feb. 4. pg. 25

Grand Junction High School

1400 N. Fifth St., Grand Junction, Colo. 81501

Volume 93 • Issue 5

February 2011

Staff

orange&black the

News Josh Shettler • Devan Thibodaux Carson Laudadio

Dave F. Proietti

Student Life Maria LeFebre • Jenna Maneotis

D.D.S., P.C.

Features Jillian Arja • Jacob Meyer

Diplomate

Opinion Ben Peterson • Hannah Kimmel Sports Kyleigh Larson • Alexandra Proietti

American Board of Orthodonics

2558 Patterson Road Tel: (970) 245-2826 Grand Junction, CO 81505 On Call: (970) 640-7367

Health Madison Gurley • Alex Tennant Photography Editor Haleigh Jacobson Advertising Manager Gillian McLean Advertising Assistant Bettina Bostelman Webmasters Dylan Arvig • Phoenix Boyd Web Editor Claire Cooper Web Staff Ashley Funke • Chrissi Gillispie James Osmundsen • Spencer Pendry Maggie Johnston • Anna Hansen Michelle Pewters Graphics Editor Chelsea Shettler Graphic Artists Kaleigh Bell • Kyle Klements Jasmine Waples Reporters Nicole Arja • Zac Barger Katherine Gibson • Paul Harmon Tessa Kester • Erin Lielkoks Holly Meer Photographers Lacee Kilgore • Stephanie Skinner Jade Smith • Aubri Wiley Video Kiana Atencio • Cory Casselberry Dillon Ragar Copy Editors Regina Papas Editors-in-Chief Kimberlyn Bennett • Kim Horwitz Adviser Rick Jussel

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Policy

The Orange & Black, a legally recognized public forum for student expression, is published six to nine times a year by the Newspaper Class for students of Grand Junction High School. Expression made by students in the exercise of the freedom of speech or freedom of press is not an expression of District 51 school board policy. The views expressed in The Orange &Black do not necessarily represent the views of the entire staff, adviser, GJHS administration or the School District 51 administration. Board policy regarding student publications (JICE, JICE-R) is available in the journalism room (Rooms 140-141) or in the principal’s office.

Letters to the Editor

The Orange & Black welcomes and encourages letters to the editors. This is a chance to express your viewpoint on important issues.

Letters should be limited to 250 words.

They will be edited for space and legal considerations, but not for inaccuracies, grammar or spelling. Letters must contain information pertinent to the students of GJHS. The staff retains the right to not publish any letter not meeting these requirements.

Unsigned letters will not be published. Please submit typed letters in person to Room 130 or via mail or to gjhsnews@gmail.com.

Cost

Single copies free. Where available, additional copies of this paper are available for purchase for 50 cents each. Contact The Orange

& Black for more information. Taking more than one copy of this paper with the intent to prevent other individuals from reading this edition of the paper is prohibited (C.R.S. 18-4-419). Violators, subject to prosecution and penalty under C.R.S. 13-21-123, will be prosecuted.

Contact

The Orange & Black, Grand Junction High School, 1400 N. Fifth St., Grand Junction, CO 81501.

Phone: 970-254-6929. FAX: 970-254-6973.

Web site: GJHSNEWS.com.

Adviser e-mail: rjussel@mesa.k12.co.us.

Some material courtesy of American Society of Newspaper Editors/MCT Campus High School Newspaper Service. © 2009 The Orange and Black Grand Junction High School. All rights reserved.

Cover photo by Haleigh Jacobson

february 2011

orange&black the

Contents

news

Pg 8 news dives into the

world of popularity in high school. Senior Bests winners are announced on Pages 6 & 7.

opinion Pg 12 opinion covers

the disapperance of tolerance Graphic by Jasmine Waples Graphic illustration by Lacee Kilgore

for a big factor of life: religion.

Pg13

the O&B challenges the student body to show some pride and spirit in and out of school.

student life

Pg 22 Alexx Flemming,

senior, reveals to student life the story behind the rumors of her pregnancy.

february 2011

featured story Pg 15 features

explores the life of students, known as super seniors, who take a fifth year to graduate.

Upperclassman and Progress Monitors also give their advice on how to have a successful high school career.

sports

Pg 28 sports speaks to Cody

Cottrell, Whitney Ravan, Ashley Wallace and Tim Hofer, who signed their letters of intent to pursue their sport at the collegiate level.

health Pg 29

GJHS students silently struggle with depression. health talks to Anna Exby who shares her experience.

Pg 31 the newest installment of the Tiger Tries It workout profiles selfdefense classes.

o&b | 03

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04 | o&b

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february 2011

&news

popularity n: the quality or state of being popular, especially the state of being widely admired, accepted or sought after. (See page 08.)

Four GJHS students had their cars broken into on Friday jillianarja

February 17

Don’t miss the start of the GJHS musical “The Wizard of Oz.”

February 21

President’s Day No school

February 26

Cottonball will be held in the GJHS main gym.

March 8

French Club will be holding their Mardi Gras celebration from 5-7 pm in the GJHS cafeteria.

Compiled by Carson Laudadio Graphic by Chelsea Shettler

Stealing is a crime and morally wrong. Hownot, there is still no reason for someone to ever, it did not stop someone from breaking into steal someone else’s property. Brady does not at least four students’ cars during school. understand why anyone would steal and it On Friday, Feb. 3, four students reported that really aggravated her. their iPods, iPod car adapters and money had “I was annoyed. Why can’t they buy their been stolen from their cars. The GJHS resource own stuff? Why do they have to take other officers and Grand Junction Police Department people’s stuff,” Brady said. are now looking into the thefts and trying to find After this occurred, they all took time to a solution to the stealing on campus. reflect and are now taking precautions so Jeffrey Hansen, 11, Courtney Brady, 11, Anthat this does not happen again. Hansen and drew Murdock, 11 and Alex Proietti, 12, among Murdock both agree that they should not other students had items anything valuable in “I was annoyed. Why can’t keep stolen from their cars their car. throughout the day on they buy their own stuff?

“Don’t keep cash, anyFriday. thing personal or other Why do they have to take valuables in your car,” These students do not believe they were Hansen said. “There’s no other people’s stuff.” targeted, but a random way to protect them.” act of theft. Their cars were parked in the AMurdock adds that students should make parking lot, in the alley and in the main parking sure to always lock their car. lot.

“Keep your doors locked and take valuOne of the reasons that Hansen and Murdock ables with you,” Murdock said. could have been chosen is because they left their Brady and Murdock think the administracords in plain sight. tion should consider installing cameras, so “My iPod was sitting out, and my trunk was that stealing could be deterred. unlocked because my brother had accidently left “I think cameras would be a good idea. it open,” Murdock said.

Nobody sees it happen unless they catch them Hansen’s iPod cord was hanging out of the doing it in the act,” Brady said. middle console in his car. He believes that is the While cameras seem like a good solution, only reason they chose his car.

Hansen does not know if they would be.

“The cord was sticking out. There is no “I don’t know if it’d be worth the cost (other) reason I would’ve been targeted,” Hansen to have cameras in the parking lot. School said. should just be a safe environment,” Hansen Even if they had something ‘sticking out’ or said.

Happenings around GJHS FCCLA is holding a coat drive at school that will be donated to struggling families from Jan. 26-Feb. 9. See Mr. Hindman for details.

Poms ex-coach Aubree Minter was arrested on charges of theft from the GJHS Poms team on Jan. 26 by the GJPD. When called, Minter was unavailable for comment.

“Who you gonna call?”

On Feb. 4, there was a paranormal investigation headed by Ghostbusters Zack Gibson and Kody Adcock to prove GJHS’s ghost stories either true or false. The investigation lasted from 9 pm to 5 am.the next morning.

Compiled by Zac Barger

How have extracirricular activities altered your high school experience? “(Speech and Debate, Volleyball, Softball) connect me with my classmates.

I get to know more people.”

Justine Roof, 11

“(Extra-cirricular activities) have helped me meet new people and make good friends. ”

“(Extra-cirricular activities) has given me more responsibilities and helped me feel included.”

Cori Patterson, 10

Kristin Wilson, 10

Compiled by Lacee Kilgore and Erin Lielkoks

february 2011

o&b | 05

06 | o&b Cody Cottrell & Jessica Robb

Most kissable

Josh Shettler & Deidre Waggoner

Best hair

Jacob Below & Amy Flukey

Best eyes

Robert Fenske & Whitney Ravan

Best personality

Julia Davenport & Casey Walker

Biggest redneck

Most optimistic

Clint Oviatt & Cassandra Walker

Shane McBride & Maddie Taylor

zz

Cutest couple

Tyler Walton & Julie Essman

zz

Biggest case of senioritis

Kody Adcock & Stephanie Moreno

Biggest teacher’s pet

Biggest rebel

David Macias & Morgan Armbruster

Stephanie Ryken & Cory DeRush

Overall sexiest

Christian Rock & Joslin Turner

Best dressed

Tyler Winder & Paula Lage

Most athletic

Biggest flirt

Ashley Schausten & Tanner Peterson

Blair Thurman & Tara Doudy

Biggest hippie

Hannah Kimmel & Paul Harmon

Most likely to succeed

178 seniors voted in Tiger Yearbook’s annual contest. The results are as follows:

Class of 2011’s senior best awards Compiled by Tiger Yearbook

News

february 2011

Nerzius Anthony & Brittany Barrus

Most spirited

Phillip Goyen & Ashley Wallace

Best legs

Kevin Martin & Dylana Gross

Most accident-prone

Charles Willett & Taylor Foster

Kenneth Gedstad & Genevieve Dodd

Class clown

Micah Forney & Camille Goodsell

Most changed

Connor Duncan & Jordan Tufly

Sean Foster & Savannah Hansen

Best laugh

Ian Chaffee & Santana Martinez

Graphics by Chelsea Shettler

Mike Calacino & Bailey Evans

Best actor

Fawn Brady & Mike Bamford

Most admired

Zach Bush & Maddie Taylor

Most musical

Most gullible

Best stomach

Most huggable

Kyle Klements & Kaleigh Bell

Most artistic

Josh Flint & Victoria Rentie

Nick LeFebre & Madeline Hayduk

Alexandra Doehling & Vincent Stocker

Best butt

Best smile

february 2011

Biggest party animal

News

o&b | 07

Photos by Lacee Kilgore Graphics by Jasmine Waples

Bomb Threat Lose a turn

SO PH

Caught texting in class -3

Made it to Sophomore year!

OM

Take weights +1

The road to popularity is indeed a hard one ... Let’s find out how you do.

F ba irst f ll o + 2 gam ote

OR EY EA R

News

First day of school

START

tessakester

Made it to Junior year!

Gain a turn Get upper classman status +2

08 | o&b

SENIOR YEAR

GAME INSTRUCTIONS Cut out the and acquire one die. Each player will roll once and the highest number takes the first turn.

Race around the board until one of the players reaches graduation. The “popular” acts will allow you to advance in the game with a +. But watch out for any “unpopular” obstacles that can get in your way marked in red.

In order to reach Graduation, the player will have to roll the exact number of spaces away.

Graduation

END

od Go re on sco T +2 AC

JUNIOR YEAR

Earn an academic letter +1

FRESHMAN YEAR

ovdG Lack of credits Faile ent s back to start ernm 2 turn of Junior year lose

Still not a senior -1

With the Senior Bests, Student of the Month contests and dance royalty, students cannot help but feel pressured into joining the race to popularity. The competition between the student body begins.

These contests can bring out the best in some students but the worst in others.

According to “Understanding Psychology,” people may engage in random, desperate and sometimes dysfunctional activities in their attempt to be accepted.

Lissie Bloom, senior, tried to be voted best butt in the Senior Bests Tiger Yearbook, by spreading by es ak ch t texts to everyone on her contact list, posting her rer n Get a s quest on Facebook and telling any senior who would nio o lu hot da mokin’ e te to S ut listen.

Home c o yo 3 ming + “(Getting voted best butt) was something I wanted to 2 + be remembered by,” Bloom said.

Although many people campaign to be nominated, it can bring about negative results, according to Rose Willett, student council advisor.

“People see it as selfish,” Willett said. ff The voting does not prove who is the most popular student ut o ing to P in GJHS, according to Willett. ly app ege -2 “It depends on whose friends organized and voted. coll There are so many kids who don’t vote that it is not a reflection of how popular (the winners) are.”

Kody Adcock, senior, believes that depending on if the student is popular in the group that votes, the winner can take the news in one of three ways: “For some people, it is a shallow victory, for others it is a major victory, but some people think it’s just a joke,” Adcock said.

In the eyes of Josh Therkildsen, freshman, popuO larity is more than getting voted for by the student in nly population. fit per sen ne so io “(Popular kids) are cocky and walk around like ss na r they’re better than everybody else,” Therkildsen said.

-3 l “(They are) wannabe’s, wearing clothes always in fashion, never old school.”

Throughout high school, people struggle to find where they fit in. Whether these awards matter to the crowd of people they spend time with, or not, everyone wants to feel accepted. That is just the name of the game.

Go to Prom Made it to Senior +3 year!

Stand in at w front ro +2 games

february 2011

&opinion

Opinion

beleaguered adj: to be harassed, to have a large group of people going against you. (See page 11.)

56% of 100 GJHS students are against Valentine’s Day

Lost in Love : A Tale for Valentine’s Day

Pro “It’s really beautiful and hits my soul deeply.”

Austin Ridgeway, 11

“I feel like Valentine’s Day is that one day to open yourself up to people and tell them how you feel.” Amanda Sanchez, 10

Con “It’s nice to get a little card, but to go all out is over-rated. You should show your love every day, not just one day.” Kim Bohrer,

Resource

“It’s nice for people who have someone, but for people who are single, it’s just a reminder of how lonely they are.” Alice Ireland, 10

+ -

- You’re not a Spanish horse, you’re an English weirdo.

- I would welcome panty lines with open arms if they were fleece underwear.

- I’m shifting my monkey’s funk all over the place.

- This is like sitting in a mommy kangaroo.

- Holy nuts of God, it’s cold.

- Jorts are the Cadillac of shorts.

Graphic by Kaliegh Bell

Props

-To the awesome Academic Team Qdoba coupons -To all individuals working hard on The Wizard of Oz -To the counselors for, once again, taking care of everyone’s schedules -To the new ketchup packets at Chick-Fil-A, which students enjoy -To the administration for working with the students and their request for parking lot organization -To all the student mentors around the school -To the sophomores parking in the designated sophomore parking -To Tiger athletes who signed to play in college -To the fact that we host the most popular dance in the valley

february 2011

Flops

-To having more Fruita students at the FruitaJunction basketball game than Junction ones and the unsportsmen-like behavior that both sides exhibited -To the lack of students dressing up during the Blackout Spirit Week -To the extreme cold after the relatively warm winter -To the general disorganization in order to get into Blackout -To schools around the nation, but not us, getting days off due to the cold weather -To people who complain about Valentine’s day.

It’s a commercial holiday.

-To multiple colleges losing applicant’s transcripts, letters, etc.

Watch Your Mouth

- Some people have Zen gardens. I have your stubble.

- I’m going to lick your cornea till it breaks.

- You’re not slutty. You just dance like a slutty.

- That was worse than a curb check. I think I ran over a pedestrian.

- I’m pretty confident that I could eat a fivepound burrito. That’s just a small baby.

- I’m like the Jesus of financing.

- What you’re going to do is take your masculinity and put it in a bottle.

- This chin would make freaking Jay Leno proud.

o&b | 09

Opinion

Words of wisdom

Complied by Kim Horwitz and Haleigh Jacobson Photos by Haleigh Jacobson

Staff share the advice they would give their family at the school and the advice they would give ordinary students.

Ann Kuhlman Counselor Mom Have integrity. Have compassion. Trust.

Everyday, there’s something (where) you have to use courage; it doesn’t have to be a huge thing, sometimes it is just walking in a door if you had a bad night, or just getting up and knowing you have to keep going. Find people in your life who can be mentors.

Don’t just choose one thing to do. Get to know all kinds of people. Travel.

You can’t say shut up or stupid. Say hello. Be friendly. Get to know people, all different types of people. Slow down a minute. Be methodical. Talk it through.

Relate to people and tie with people. You’re so capable at any point as long as you have courage and believe in yourself. Have grace with yourself. Allow yourself to be human.

Create that connection.

It’s even just knowing someone’s name. Children learn how to be polite and thoughtful through their moms.

Tom LeFebre Social Studies Teacher Uncle Be honest. Be respectful. Set goals have a plan. Look people in the eyes when you talk to them. Pick up your room when asked.

Set goals and figure out a plan to accomplish them.

Stop by and see Grandma and Grandpa more often. Don’t forget to floss. And don’t forget to read something other than your texts. Go out of your way to say hi and/or be nice to someone who is left out. To Nick LeFebre: Think before you act. Be nice to your girlfriends. Every now and then you have to take something seriously. To Maria LeFebre: Don’t even think about getting married until you’re 30. The family needs a doctor—study hard. Stop by and see Trey and Tycen—they enjoy your company.

To Emma LeFebre: Don’t do things just because your friends are—think for yourself. Don’t even think about getting married until you’re 31. I’ll find out.

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Ralph Wahlers Social Studies Teacher Dad If you know that’s the best, if you truly know that’s the best you can do, that’s fine.

Stop touching each other. If you’re here on a daily basis, you’ll do OK. When the opportunity is given to you for a redo, take advantage of it. Whatever you do, do it well. Live up to your ambitions and d on’t sell yourself short. You never quit. Living around here, you don’t give up. That’s a death sentence. You have to get up and persevere. You never know when you’re checking out. Make the most of your time here.

Make sure those around you whom you love know you love them. Sometimes the people closest to you take the most grief from you. It’s a given that they’ll take grief from you, it’s not a given that they’ll get love from you. Take chances. He who dares wins. Don’t be a slug.

Ann Peterson Math Teacher Mom Walk two moons in (others’) shoes. You never know what their experiences are or if they have had a good day or bad day, so listen. Relationships are the most important thing in life. We are a team and we will get there together or we won’t get there. Aim high because we never know what we are going to need. Be curious. Learn as much as you can. Be greedy with your learning.

Ask questions. People will respect you more if you ask questions. Be nice to your brother and sister. There (are) no put-downs. If you give a put-down you have to give three put-ups. Pray. The first semester (of college), be in tuned from where you came from. Ask people to write you letters, not emails, so you have something physical in your hands. Remember that you are loved.

Explore the world and don’t lose that. Have awe for the world. What are we going to give to the world?

february 2011

Opinion

Bieber Fever:

Will the sensation ever end? paulharmon

Beliebe it or not, there was a time when nobody knew the name Justin Bieber.

Those were good times.

Since his meteoric rise on YouTube catapulted him into super-stardom, Justin Bieber has taken the pop culture world by storm.

Singles such as “Baby,” “One Time,” and “Somebody to Love” rocked the music world, and his upcoming movie, “Never Say Never,” is sure to be a cult classic.

The film, which will be released on Feb. 11, will allow viewers to experience Bieber’s life story in stunning 3-D. “Bieber fever” is one of the recent major fads to spread across America like wildfire.

Despite his success, Bieber has a substantial number of critics. In fact, his astounding overnight rise to stardom is rivaled only by the insane animosity directed his way.

Beleaguered Bieber is belittled by people from Boise to Baltimore and everywhere in between.

So what’s the big deal? How can a 16-yearold Canadian pop singer cause so much controversy?

When you get down to it, Justin Bieber is no worse than any other modern pop star.

He’s not quite certifiably insane, like some—i.e., Gaga—and it’s a safe bet

february 2011

that he won’t be donning a meat outfit any time soon.

Chicks dig the dude. No one knows why, but for some reason, Justin Bieber is adored by hordes of adolescent and teen females and reviled by a host of teenage guys.

But have you seen his hair? The terrifying thing is that the “Bieber look” is spreading; Patriots quarterbackTom Brady is now rocking the hairdo and thousands of confused tweens are following suit.

If you are a true “belieber,” you can buy an official Justin Bieber singing doll at Walmart for 20 bucks!

These things are selling like hotcakes.

Word has it he has even spawned clones. YouTube is bursting at the seams with videos of teens masquerading as the pop star. As if one was not enough…

Bieber’s rise—and inevitable fall back into Canadian obscurity—is the direct consequence of pop culture on steroids.

Someday, and hopefully someday soon, he will be forgotten. His posse of fans and haters will disappear as well.

Caught up in this craze, however, is the omission of a simple fact: Justin Bieber is just a person.

He is, despite the vehement claims of the critics, haters and certain radio personalities, a human being.

Perhaps he should be treated that way.

Un-beliebable!

Graphic by MCT Campus

o&b | 11

Opinion

Can’t we have some #@%!ing tolerance within our religion?

Graphic by MCT Campus

Religion has always played the role of supporting someone’s personal faith while creating political unrest. Unfortunately, tolerance has been lost. zacbarger

W

hen was the last time you insulted another person’s religion? How did they react? Or did you even

stop to ask?

A few weeks ago, I was browsing through various pages on Facebook when I came across a page called “Remove ‘F*** Jesus Christ from Facebook.’” Immediately, I clicked the “Like” button and then viewed the page. More than 200,000 members of Facebook had “liked” it.

Curious, I searched for the group that the petition was against. Multiple pages came up, each with less than 800 “likes.” Most had less than 50.

It is upsetting either way you look at it. Now-adays, people should know that saying something like that is just flat out unacceptable.

We live in the United States—a country founded on the freedom of religion. There is a palate of religions, dominated by Christianity and its divisions, but we also have Judaism, Islam, Buddhism, Hinduism and numerous others.

The religious diversity that we have is what dis-

12 |o&b

tinguishes our country from other places in the world. Religious freedom gives us the ability to experiment with religion and not be judged for it.

Freedom is promised to us in the first amendment of the Constitution, along with freedom of speech, of press, to assemble and to petition. Ergo, some organizations have used their freedom of speech as grounds to spout religious attacks on others.

And according to the law, people have the right to do that.

But morally, it is unacceptable. Religion is something that we hold sacred. Even though we may have different beliefs, we are all equals, and it is not OK to insult another’s religion.

No matter what dictionary you look in, equality always will have the same meaning: it is the quality or state of having the same rights and freedoms. In school, court and in every activity we partake in, we are given equality as people. So why is religion different?

Religion is such a touchy subject because war after war has

been fought over it. Religion causes disagreements in beliefs, and debate, questioning or denial.

Maybe it is because we are so afraid of being cast out by our peers that we hide our beliefs from those around us, just so we aren’t judged by those around us.

But religion truly shapes who we are. Without religion and the freedom to choose which beliefs we follow, we wouldn’t be finding who we really are or what we believe.

I urge you to think about tolerance the next time you are on Facebook, or any social networking site for that matter. Next time you are about to take a stab at a person’s religion, think about how it would feel to have somebody blatantly insult your religion in that way.

Would it make you angry? Would it make you want to react? Would you even care?

february 2011

Opinion

One: We are the Tigers Two: A little bit louder Three: We still can’t hear you

Four: Are you even there?

When the student section cheers, the floor shakes, the seats rattle and the other teams hear it loud and clear. Or at least that’s how it

used to be.

Now, with a packed student section, cheers are unheard because only parts of the stands participate. Cheers often start and end with the first three rows and are frequently disrespectful. In a way, the student section doesn’t extend beyond those first few rows, if it exists at all. Most of the time, there are barely any students at games to cheer on our team, and almost always there is a lack of student support for other school events.

A few years ago, hallways were a sea of orange and black on game days. In fact, every Friday was Orange and Black Day. Now, this tradition doesn’t exist at all. Students rarely dress up for spirit days, let alone game days.

There is a general loss of respect for peers, teachers, opponents and property; the loss of pride for our school is everywhere. Tigers feel it in the hallway and feel it during games. The Grand Junction Tiger name does not mean what it used to. Our pride was once known statewide, and now we are on our way to becoming recognized as disrespectful and unsportsmanlike. Let’s change the trend.

We challenge you to deck out in orange and black every Friday, cheer so much that you lose your voice during games and walk with pride because you know that you are part of the legacy of the Grand Junction Tigers. We challenge you to show your school, opponents and the entire community that we know the meaning of Tiger pride.

february 2011

o&b | 13

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T I G E R

14 | o&b

More than 1,500 students and staff members will have their photographs in this 272-page historical document.

Cost is $60.

So far, nearly 800 yearbooks have been sold.

The Tiger Yearbook is well into the production process and will be distributed in mid-May. If you have not purchased one, do it as quickly as possible in the main office.

Yearbook february 2011

Features

4.8% of District 51 high school students dropped out in 2005-2006

At GJHS, 30 students had to repeat their senior year in 20102011

1 out of 20 seniors will repeat senior year

february 2011

3.1% of District 51 high school students dropped out in 2009-2010

Mesa County has a 69-78% graduation rate

79.8% of the GJHS senior class of 2011 is on track to graduate

76% of the District 51 senior class of 2011 is on track to graduate

S S uper

11% of whites dropped out between 1624 years old

e n i o ro&b | 15

Too old to be in high school?

Some seniors unfortunately do not graduate in the common four years, causing them to attend another year of high school.

Rather than donning caps and gowns in celebration last May, they braced for a return to school. These students are at GJHS for a fifth year because they did not meet the requirements to graduate.

At the beginning of the 2010—2011 school year, nearly 30 students at GJHS were fifthyear seniors – or, as they are more commonly referred to, Super Seniors. Many were able to finish their career by the time first semester came to an end. However, three Super Seniors still roam the halls, hoping to complete their graduation requirements with the class of 2011.

Those students are Manuel Zamudio, Juan Hererra and Skyler Streetman. They all failed paulharmon to graduate with their original class for differhollymeer ent reasons.

“It’s a relationship that Not every Zamudio cites apaGJHS student you build with each thy as the key to his gets to walk individual student, and struggles. at graduation.

“My sophomore you get to know them and junior year I Fifth-year seniors watch really well.” just got off track and their friends didn’t care anymore,” and classmates walk Zamudio said. down the stage and For Streetman, coming to GJHS from South into a new life with a Carolina presented numerous problems. realization that their “When I moved here, I had failed the ninth own graduation is grade,” Streetman said. “My math classes still a distant goal. never had proper equipment. It’s a hard subject for me, so I ended up not doing too well.”

For all three, ditching was a problem. Zamu- succeed – without a high school diploma.

“I felt bad (that I did not graduate). I want dio and his friends began ditching his sophoto graduate,” said Herrera. “It’s important more and junior year. Hererra also developed because you get better opportunities and betchronic attendance problems and nearly ter jobs.” dropped out.

Streetman agreed.

“I knew I needed (the credits), but I just “There’s a lot more opportunities out there didn’t go,” Herrera said. “I was going to drop for people with diplomas,” Streetman said. out, but I wanted to finish. I wanted to show Each student has returned people that I could gradu“I get frustrated because to GJHS persevering for difate.” ferent reasons, and each has Students who do come people don’t know back often regret not being anything about deafness.” a different plan in mind.

Zamudio credits his mothable to graduate on time. er, counselor Lori Plantiko and LEAG leader For Zamudio, going to school is just someHerb Castelo with helping him to pursue his thing he must get done. His only goal now is degree. to get a diploma as fast as possible.

“My mom said it’s better for me to come “It’s boring. I regret it big time,” Zamudio back and struggle (to graduate),” he said. “The said. “I should be starting a new life, but I’m main reason why (I’m graduating) is because still here doing the same thing. There’s noththey helped me out.” ing new about it.”

He expects to graduate in May and intends Streetman, however, has enjoyed his opto pursue a degree in criminal justice starting portunity to continue his education and build at Western Colorado Community College in new relationships with teachers and students. the fall.

“It wasn’t as special to graduate with a cerFor Streetman, the experience has been, to tain class (after I moved from South Caroan extent, gratifying. He views the experilina),” Streetman said. “Now I know a lot more people because I’ve been here longer. I would ence optimistically and feels that the learning environment at GJHS has helped him to see love to graduate with the class of 2011.” the value of education.

Super seniors recognize that the benefits “This school has been really helpful. The to graduating high school are worth going through another year. They understand that it principals and counselors all talked to me and is increasingly difficult to survive—much less

my parents. They all motivated me,” he said.

Each Super Senior offered their own piece “I’m not a downer. I always think positive, so of advice to underclassmen. being a super senior has been no problem at “I know it sounds crazy coming from me, all. I feel like I got a lot to live, so why not take but don’t ditch class, because that’s what another year?” messed me up the most,” Streetman said.

Streetman has not yet applied to college but “Go to class and do your work.” intends to pursue higher education after high Fifth-year seniors are up against the school. world. Super Seniors are normal kids who “I plan to go to Mesa State,” he said. “I want have faced great difficulties throughout to go into music production or culinary arts. their academic career. Rather than settling I’m looking at minority scholarships and a for failure, however, they worked hard to first-generation scholarship, so hopefully get back on track. those will help out a lot.”

“I admire them,” Rose Willett, progress Hererra does not intend to go to college. monitor, said. “Something happened to However, he feels those students to make his degree will be an “There are times where it’s not it difficult (to graduimportant step in physically but emotionally or men- ate), and the fact that life. He already works tally tiring.” they turned it around part-time in conis real kudos to them.” struction and may pursue that field after high For each student, the experience comes school. tinged with adversity. Nevertheless, Super “I want to graduate, but I don’t think I want Seniors continue to persevere in order to to go to college,” he said. “I want to work in achieve their ultimate goal: a high school construction.” diploma.

Each senior agreed that coming back was “I’m really committed,” Zamudio said. “I worth it, but they also noted that the situadon’t want to spend the rest of my life fliption could have been avoided if they had been ping burgers.” more committed to school earlier in their That commitment is reflected in their career. Students who take advantage of their decision to return and their willingness to opportunities early on have the best chance at work to graduate. For the Super Seniors at graduating on time—or even early.

GJHS, a chance at new life was postponed, but now, a new life beckons.

Photo by Haleigh Jacobson

5 not 4

Features

Not taking the traditional four-year path paulharmon hollymeer

on track for success. high on students to Newer plans such as the Basic graduate in an everOne of the main priorities for Work Experience program – competitive world. teachers, administrators and which allows students to tie their “The bar for emcounselors at GJHS is to make work experience to school – and ployment has been sure that students graduate on the Ascent program for collegeraised,” Willett said. time. Those students that do bound students are broadening “It’s hard for a person not make it, however, still have educational horizons for all types with a college degree numerous opportunities to leave of students. to get a job. I can’t high school with a diploma.

“Most cases we meet imagine “It’s like they re- what it’s “We don’t want kids to be dropwith kids and put outs,” Jon Bilbo, principal, said. alize that we’re like for together a graduaBilbo works hand-in-hand with tion plan during their not just going someone progress monitors Robbie Owjunior year. Then we without to hand them a ens and Rose Willett as well as do everything in our a high the counseling department in an power to get them to diploma.” school effort to help struggling students graduate,” Owens said. degree.” find a way to graduate.

“All the programs the district has Graduation from Their efforts are working. put in place assisted with lowering high school may take “The number of fifth-year the dropout rate district wide, and three years for one seniors is definitely growing,” that’s our main purpose.” student and five for Owens said.

Principal Bilbo agrees that the another, but students Owens indicated that the indistrict is creating successful opwho persevere tend to creasing number of fifth years is portunities for students. see benefits. growing because the administra“The synergy of all those things “Sometimes it’s tion is encouraging them to take has caused the graduation rate good to have them the extra year to graduate. to go up and the dropout rate to come back,” Owwens Policies recently enacted by go down,” he said. “We’re pretty said. “It’s like they School District 51 and the Colora- pleased with the direction we are realize that we’re not do Department of going.” just going to hand Education (CDE) “We have a big enough Students who them a diploma. The are helping more school that people don’t return for a light bulb clicks and students to leave even know who fifth-year fifth year are students are willing high school with a often finished to do work that they seniors are.” diploma. by the end of didn’t do before.”

District 51 – and subsequently the fall semester, but for those For some students, GJHS – are on par with other students who need as much time this illumination districts around the state, but as possible, a sixth year of high makes all the differthere is still room for improveschool can be an option as well. ence. ment. Implementations such as “[A sixth year is] rare,” Owens

the five-year plan, Work Keys, said. “I would say six years is as Nova Net and Alternative Pathfar as people go.” ways to Graduation are allowing Regardless of how much time more kids to stay in school – and it takes, pressure is increasingly

o&b | 18

Four students tell the O&B about their motivation throughout high school Parker Hegstrom, 12 “Get back on track as soon as possible. Stay organized, it’s easy to forget to do things when you’re not organized.”

Megan Miller, 12 “Think of something that gives you motivation, it’s different for each person, and work hard. Don’t get intimidated, take every day as it comes, and keep on going.”

Evan Duff, 11 “Do your work because if you fall behind that’s when you get in trouble. Set your priorities and make sure you do what’s most important first.”

Acacia Cordova, 11 “Don’t get discouraged, everyone slips up. Seek help, there’s always people willing to help. Find friends who find school important and can help motivate you.”

Compiled by Holly Meer and Jade Smith

february 2011

&student life We’re off to see the wizard The Drama Club presents the musical, “The Wizard of Oz,” Feb. 17-20.

Tickets for students are $5 pre-sale and $8 at the door, adults are $12 presale and $15 at the door.

Registration Freshman, sophomores and juniors must have registration for next year turned in by Feb. 9.

Solo & Ensemble Band students will compete on Feb. 11 and 12.

Hometown superstar

F

or the past five years, my own music,” Mefford said. “We junior Dominick Mefstarted butting heads a lot, music to ford has been working music seeing who is better. Then it towards accomplishjust rocketed from there. I have to ing a goal that most say I am better than my cousin right students in high school now.” would never dream of. Recently, MefHis music career started when he ford’s goal of getting a record deal for was just six years old, when he tried his music, has been achieved. Mefford out for a music video audition. After now has a record deal YG Family En- getting the part, Mefford started his tertainment, one of the top recording career. companies in South Korea.

“From there it just escalated and The process of signing with a I just started loving music,” Mefford record company is very said. complicated and can Mefford has certainly “This is my take many years, as launched into the world Mefford discovered. In music and this of entertainment music.

Mefford’s case, it took He has written 21 songs, is why they five years to complete including “Only Look at are here, so this long process.

Me,” “Where You At” and “I had to make a few I’m gonna give “Prayer.” Mefford wrote songs so I could show these songs as part of an them all I got.” audition for the record the record company how good I am and just company. Now, Mefford what I’m made of. I had is a signed artist that has to write three songs performed in numerous with the beats, and I had to do the concerts. beats by myself,” Mefford said.

But no matter how many concerts Before Mefford started the process he has been in, Mefford said that he of signing with the record company, always feels a little nervous. he had been involved with and in“When you are on stage you get spired by music his entire life. Many really nervous like when you see the people in his family are involved in crowd, but then the music starts playthe music business. His dad and his ing and you realize this is my music cousin are just two people that influand this is why they are here, so I’m ence his music. gonna give them all I got. After that “My cousin’s music is really good, it just goes away and you give them so that inspired me to start writing your all,” Mefford said.

erinlielkoks with guest writer James Hays

Photo by Lacee Kilgore

Cottonball Cottonball is Feb. 27. The theme is Moulin Rouge and tickets are $15 per person and $25 for couples.

ralph. v: to puke, hurl, upchuck. (See page 20.)

Mefford said that performing at concerts gives him a feeling unlike any other.

“It’s the greatest rush to get on stage and have everyone focused on you. The crowd is overpowering when ‘Dom-i-nick, Dom-i-nick’ rings throughout the stadium,” Mefford said.

When Mefford gets on stage he uses his music to express the feelings and emotions of his everyday life.

“I have a lot of feeling for music. It’s a way of me telling the world what I feel and how things are around me. My music is feeling, emotions, love, hate, excitement, that feeling of trusting somebody.”

“I like my part because I get to carry a big ax.”

“I get to be overwhelming, and I have the most delicious cookies on a plate that I get to eat every night.”

“He has a good roar.

It’s the funniest thing. It’s kind of a bark.”

Tate Hegstrom, 10, “Tin Man”

Lizzie Price, 12, “Auntie Em”

Aaron Jenkins, 11, “Lion”

Photos by Lacee Kilgore

What is your favorite part of your character in “The Wizard of Oz”?

Compiled by Katherine Gibson

february 2011

o&b | 19

Student Life

Milk studs

The Challenge: 1 gallon of milk in 1 hour or less.

Team Megan

Team George

We’ve all seen the YouTube videos of the Gallon Challenge, but how hard is it really to hold down a gallon of milk? Sophomores Megan and George Gromke put together their best competitors to see which team could hold down the most milk in an hour.

George Gromke, 10

Evan Duff, 11

Cyrus Pearo, 12

Paula Lage, 12

Jamie Derrieux, 11

Megan Gromke, 10

“It’s all a mental game.”

“I’m not scared.”

“Fear’s turned to despair.”

“Can you write me a doctor’s note?”

“I gotta loosen the belt.”

“I have milk up to my throat right now.”

Photos by Haleigh Jacobson Graphic by Kyle Klements

20 | o&b

With 10 minutes left on the clock, Duff ralphed.

However, he continued to drink and was the only contestant to finish the entire gallon of milk with two minutes and twenty seconds remaining.

february 2011

Student Life

Love Lounge

The Love Doctor is in, with a combined total of 34 years of experience, to solve all of your relationship struggles.

THE LOVE LABORATORY, P.C. Love Doctor, D.O. Aphrodite Way, Love Land

Dear Love Doctor, My girlfriend wants me to do things that I find uncomfortable and I really don’t know how to tell her that I don’t want to do these things. Please help me and tell me how to tell her without hurting her feelings.

Thank you,

Concerned Lover

Love Doctor, D.O. Aphrodite Way, Love Land

Your issues are incomparable to anything I have ever experienced.

However, skin is not necessarily a one-size-fits-all deal. First, the odds that your skin would come off in one piece are highly unlikely. Second, it’s probably not resililent enough to actually wear on another body. And third, that experience would be almost as disgusting for the predator as for the prey. Probably not something you should worry yourself over.

Spring fashion advice Guys, as it starts to warm up and the rain showers start coming, always look your best and stay protected from the elements.

The first thing you need is a nice pair of fitted jeans or some cords to keep you warm. Next you need a nice fresh tee paired with a cardigan, or nice sweater to keep you warm in the mornings, but not too warm. And for those days that rain is inevitable, be sure to throw on, or pack, a light, waterproof jacket. Bright colors will make you stand out and can be paired with just about anything.

Make sure it’s hooded too to keep your head nice and dry as well.

february 2011

rather stay at home and do a puzzle than go snowboarding.

THE LOVE LABORATORY, P.C.

Dear Love Doctor, Recently I have been pen palling a 57-year-old woman in prison. I’m 18, so it’s not illegal and I really like her. The bad part is that she used to kill male hookers, that’s why she is in prison. Recently she asked me if I wanted to get hitched, right there in the visitors room. A part of me wants to because I love the idea of a cougar, but the other half is worried she’s going to wear my skin. I can’t stop talking to her because she gets out in eight and a half months and she has my home address. Should I be scared for my life, or should I be a newlywed?

Sincerely, Prisoner of Love

Guest Writer, Garrick Lemley

You need to be honest with your girlfriend. In the long run, lying to her will hurt your relationship more than hurting her feelings once. She will appreciate your honesty. So man up and tell her that you would

Be sure to check out azeclothing.com for the new line dropping soon

Ladies, just like the men, start with a sleek pair of jeans or jeggings.

As it gets warmer, a good look is also some leggings paired with a nice long tank and cardigan, or an off-the-shoulder sweater for a warm and put together look. Be sure to pick up the latest pair of Aze leggings when they come out to make this look really pop. For those rainy days, throw on a waterproof wool jacket or overcoat that falls below your waistline, and throw on a nice knitted beanie to keep your head warm. On the feet keep it classy with some calf high boots or a pair of nice, light TOMS.

o&b | 21

Student Life

Pencils to pacifiers Early graduate Alexx Flemming is expecting and excited katherinegibson Two girls make their way through the crowded hallway, trying to ignore the whispers and pointed fingers. One of them looks down to her stomach, rubbing it and knowing that this would all be worth it in the end. Her friend puts a hand on her back and guides her to her class. They go their separate ways, both of them knowing that when December rolled around, one of them would leave this school forever.

Seventeen-year-old Alexx Flemming was a senior this year. She wanted the great senior year everyone else would have, and that is what she would get—until she found out she was pregnant.

“I wasn’t ready to give up my childhood right away. I wanted to go to prom and do all the ‘senior things.’” Flemming said.

Flemming planned on telling her friends about her baby when she was ready. Unfortunately for her, someone spread her secret.

Soon, she was getting stares in the hallway and rumors were running rampant.

“I wasn’t going to tell anybody at first, and I put my trust into somebody that I shouldn’t have. Some were really accepting of it. Others [were not]. I got the slut comment quite a bit, and I was told that I was trash and that I represented the school badly,” Flemming said.

At first, Flemming was not bothered by the other students; she tried to brush it off. Her family and a few close friends were very supportive, but soon, the comments and the stress started to pile up.

“It started coming from people that I know, and that upset me more than anything. It was like a stab in the back from my friends. They didn’t really know my story, and they didn’t know what was going on. Nobody asked the father. He has not taken responsibility for this at all. He’s not paying; he doesn’t want to be around but once a year to make sure she’s doing okay. And I’m going to be with the child for the rest of my life,” Flemming said.

Flemming began to cut the harmful relationships from her life; she stopped talking to the people who put her down and broke up with her boyfriend.

“I broke up with him because at that point I realized that it was an unhealthy relationship. With him, I didn’t feel that cared about and I couldn’t sacrifice my happiness, especially since my happiness is going to affect my child’s happiness,” Flemming said.

Flemming and her former boyfriend reached an agreement. He did not want custody, but he did want to be able to check up on the baby.

“For [Alexx] in the long run, I think that’s better because he has caused her a lot of pain. I think that without having to share her baby with someone who doesn’t love it is better for her. And I think that’s his own decision, and if he wants that, then he can act like that,” a friend of Flemming’s said. The source wishes to remain anonymous.

Flemming found her support system in a few trusted friends and her family.

“My sister (supported me.)

But I think there is a bullying problem.

I didn’t see it before I was pregnant and it wasn’t aimed towards me. That upsets me. Bullying ran me out of school,” Flemming said.

Now that Flemming is looking ahead, she is focusing on the positive side of things. “(It was) one hundred percent (worth it.) I’m so happy now. I get to be a mom, and I get to bring the most perfect thing into the world. It gets to be innocent and pure. It’s the best happy I’ve ever been,” Flemming said.

Right now, she works in the shoe department at J.C. Penny Co., but Flemming plans to soon expand her horizons. Because of the baby, her hopes for the future have shifted from wanting to do humanitarian work in Africa to being a child psychologist here at home.

“I think that this will affect her future, but I know that she’s a strong enough person that it’s not going to affect her very long. She’ll get used to it and she’ll be fine. She’ll be amazing at what she does,” Flemming’s friend said.

Everyone around Flemming is looking forward to adding a new member to the family. Dalayna Rayn is due on April 3 of this year, two days before Flemming turns 18.

“I get to bring the most perfect thing into the world ...

It’s the best happy I’ve ever been.”

22 | o&b

Photo by Lacee Kilgore

february 2011

Student Life

Guide to the stands

It is the known responsibility of the front rows of the student section, the upperclassmen and the cheerleaders, to lead the rest of the Tigers in cheers. It is the responsibility of the rest of the student section to follow along. The student section as a whole is responsible for supporting our team, showing our pride and cheering enthusiastically. For those who are unfamiliar with the cheers, who cannot hear what those around them are saying, and have always been a little lost at games, the O&B offers a guide to the most well-known GJHS cheers.

If you hear: Hey, Tigers (or another title that applies to you), how do you feel?!

You say: We feel good, oh we feel so good! (Then simultaneously grunt and thrust and then begin clap pattern consisting of 16 consecutive claps). Junction High!

If you hear: Yo baby, yo baby, yo baby, yo!

You say: You’ve got to be a Tiger or you’ve got to go! (Point arms enthusiastically at the exit.)

If you hear: What about, what about, what about our color shout?

You say: Orange, orange, orange, orange, (accompanied by fist pumps,) black, (clap) black, (clap).

If you hear: GJ! You say: HS! (repeat three times and then simultanously thrust and grunt.)

If you hear: GJ all day!

You join in as loud as you can!

february 2011

o&b | 23

Ads

The Orange & Black would like to thank the following people for their generous contributions to our program:

Gold Donators $100 Silver Donators $66-$99

Bronze Donators $35-$65

The Gurley Family

If you would like to contribute to the Orange & Black please call (970) 254-6929 or e-mail gjhsnews@yahoo.com

GJHS Booster Club Supporting our Tigers since 1954 Investing in our kids’ tomorrow . . . today.

WHO BENEFITS FROM THE BOOSTER CLUB?

The GJHS Booster Club is somewhat unique in that it raises funds not only for student athletics but all recognized student activities as well — from football to drama, from band to German Club, from Link Crew to Academic Team, from The Orange & Black newspaper to volleyball, from . . . well, you get the idea.

Booster Club has donated over $1,300,000 to Grand Junction High School Student Activities and Athletic Programs; $68,000 was donated just last year To continue this tradition of financial support, we need parent volunteers.

Booster Club’s primary fundraiser is Bingo.

Volunteers needed to work 1 or 2 sessions a month.

Bingo is held on: ­ Wednesday evening at 7 p.m. — — — Sunday afternoon at 12:30 and 3:30 p.m. — Junction Bingo 511 281/4 Road in Grand Junction

24 | o&b

february 2011

&sports

Tiger what? Tiger pride?

technical n: penalty when a coach or player displays inappropriate behavior during a basketball game. The other team shoots two free throws and gets the ball. (See page 27.)

Tiger behavior Upon meeting FMHS again on Feb. 4, the Tiger student section displayed a remarkable amount of sportsmanship, class and support for our teams.

Despite the unfortunate turn out of the game, the packed student section cheered positively until the final buzzer. After our previous showing at home, we redeemed the tiger name, and showed FMHS what Tiger pride is truly made of.

Looking for a sport to play?

Rugby has arrived in the Grand Valley. Students from GJHS and the other schools in the valley combine with Aspen’s junior club team to form a U19 team.

“We are looking for as many as we can, experience is not needed. We can teach you all you need to know,” junior TJ Downey said.

Rugby is a great new sport for the valley.

“I love it. I went to one practice and got addicted. It’s the best combination of things I’ve played,” Downey said. “The game never stops, we’re always passing, everyone has a chance to score and there is lots of contact. You meet a lot of really cool guys, too.”

What are you looking forward to most for your spring sports season?

“Being on varsity, hopefully, and taking tennis to a whole new level. I’m looking forward to taking it more seriously and growing as a tennis player.”

Morgan Shay, 12, tennis

february 2011

“Competing. I really enjoy competing.

It tests me to show where I’m at and to see how much I’ve improved since last year.”

Sarah Versluis, 12, track

“Playing against Fruita at Mesa State.

It is definitely the highlight of the season because of the rivalry.”

“Hopefully to get my first start on varsity and to be a good asset to the team.”

Keith Rockwood, 11, lacrosse

Marcus Wirth, 11, baseball

Photos by Jade Smith and Stephanie Skinner

Compiled by Stephanie Skinner

An O&B reporter discusses the incident at the Fruita game and the true definition of pride As friends, teammates, co-workers and cousins, Grand Junction and Fruita Monument high school students cooperate, but what happens on a football field or basketball court that makes them enemies?

After the Fruita-Junction basketball game on Jan. 14, students from both sides rushed the court and created a riot that has left many wondering, what is school pride and how far do we take it?

“All the Fruita kids ran onto the court and were yelling at us.

They had already won. It was like, ‘What more do they want?’” junior Garrett Harrison said.

What Fruita didn’t know, however, was just how much more they were going to get.

“I knew something bad was going to happen,” a student who was involved said. “After they rushed the court, we all went out there, and everyone was pushing and shoving everyone else. It was crazy.”

Now, several students have been suspended, and the administration is considering ways to avoid similar situations in the future.

“We’re looking at several Maggie Johnston, options. What we know for Reporter sure is that there will never be another major game without police support,” Principal Jon Bilbo said.

Now, the question is, how far should we go in the name of protecting the Tiger?

“Our students don’t seem to know the difference between Tiger pride and unruly behavior,” said Bilbo. “Fruita definitely played a part in what happened, but I wonder why we reacted the way we did.”

The week of game and the riot, GJHS was featured as the school of the week on KREX news.

“There are so many great things going on in this building, and I have a three-page-long list of accomplishments that proves it,” Bilbo said. “But, that Friday night will not be on that list.”

While the loyalty to GJHS by the students involved is admirable, the way they handled it is not.

“We are trying to create a history of excellence here at Junction,” Bilbo said. “But that wasn’t excellence. We need to figure out what makes us special, and how we can show it.”

Pride is more than defending your honor against an old rival. Pride is participation in spirit days; pride is attending school events such as academic team tournaments, debate competitions and cross country meets. Pride is that feeling you get when you score a point, but pride is also the feeling you get when you watch your team score a point.

“We need to find positive ways to show our spirit,” Bilbo said. “When the whole community comes out for a game and the players leave the biggest crowd they have ever played in front of, that is pride.”

Now we must decide, what is pride? How do we show it?

And what happened that Friday night?

o&b | 25

Sports

Behind the locker room doors nickyarja

The GJHS girls basketball team’s pregame rituals begin with Coach Sam Provenza giving a talk about what strategy the team will need to win.

“I tell them, ‘do what you do in practice and it’ll pay off,’” Provenza said. “I say, ‘you don’t have to be spectacular, you just have to be good.’”

Senior captain Paula Lage prepares a speech for the team.

“I try to make them realize it’s more of a team effort and that we can’t do it alone,” Lage said.

After Lage speaks, senior Stephanie Drake leads the team in a prayer and senior Camille Goodsell starts the GJHS cheer after the amen.

As the team leaves the locker room, they sing, “We Ready,” and are finally prepared and pumped up for the game.

The boys’ basketball team does not do many special pregame rituals.

Head coach Dutch Johnson gives his pregame talk.

“We talk about team goals, then our objectives for offense and defense. Then, we talk about who’s guarding who and who their strong shooters and rebounders are,” Johnson said.

After the pregame talk, Coach Johnson lets the players take a moment for themselves.

“The feeling before games, when we take a moment for ourselves, when it’s dead silent in the locker room; there are just not many feelings like that,” senior Tyler Winder said.

Johnson leaves it to the players to fire the team up and give the pep talks.

After all that, the team huddles together and does their “crazy chant” to fire them up to play the game.

26 | o&b

The locker room after a game can have two different atmospheres; the team could either be excited about a win or upset over a loss.

For the Tiger girls basketball team, after a game Provenza always leads the discussion about how the team played, regardless of a win or loss. “(After a loss) we talk about what we could’ve done better, like what they did, and what we didn’t adjust to,” Provenza said.

The main focus for the team is what they need to work on during the next practices.

Following a win, everyone celebrates the team effort.

“We enjoy that game, but then we look ahead to the next one,” Provenza said.

When the boys’ team loses, Johnson follows that same routine, trying to give them the time to figure out what went wrong during the game.

“We go back through the game,” Johnson said. “We talk about what went well and what didn’t.”

Like most teams, forgetting a loss is important to prepare for the next game.

Similar to the girl’s team, after a win the team enjoys it but does not keep it in mind for too long.

Senior captain Tyler Winder says they all celebrate after wins, and says winning helps boost team confidence and prepare them for the rest of the season.

“Every win matters,” Winder said.

Photos by Jade Smith Graphic by Jasmine Waples

P O S T G A M E

P R E G A M E

february 2011

Angles of: Officials

Sports nickyarja

With constant questions about their eyesight, insults, ridicule and arguments from players, coaches and spectators, being a high school basketball official is no easy job.

“Officiating is hard, it takes a good commitment,” Mike Bullen, official of 33 years, said. “It’s fun because people wonder how you could do it.”

PLAYERS:

COACHES:

As a basketball official, dealing with coaches arguments regarding the calls is inevitable.

However, Bullen does not feel he has to deal with it frequently.

“Most coaches don’t spend the time (arguing calls consistently),” Bullen said.

In the cases where coaches do argue a call over and over, Bullen simply tells them to let him do his job.

“We’ll say ‘Coach we’re not doing that; let us do our job.’ They have more to worry about than arguing,” Bullen said.

However, Bullen is not afraid to hand a coach a technical if the coach cannot control his emotions during the game.

Officials know that coaches are going to argue a call or two, but Bullen still expects good behavior from everyone at the game.

“I have high expectations for the coaches, players and spectators at the games,” Bullen said.

february 2011

Graphic by Kyle Klements

The role of an official, contrary to many spectators belief depending on the lead, is to keep the players safe and in line, and insure the game does not turn violent.

When a player steps out of line, Bullen talks to the player, the captains and the coach to rectify the problem.

“I talk to all three,” Bullen said. “Most coaches fix the problem immediately.”

Bullen notices that most players listen when an official talks to them about a call or warns them about their play.

“I go and talk to them to calm them down,” Bullen said. “[Players] back down once somebody notices how they are playing.”

Officials work together to call the game.

“We share information about the players between the officials,” Bullen said. “We work as a team.”

PARENTS:

STUDENT SECTION:

During high school basketball games, student sections can become rowdy while cheering for their team, distracting the other team and yelling at the officials. Bullen hears them, but disregards them.

“AD’s (Athletic Directors) and principals keep an eye on the kids,” Bullen said. “If things get out of whack, we will tell them to watch the students. I have never had an issue.”

Bullen knows that sportsmanship is important to administrations around the valley.

“Schools around here are all about doing the right things for all the kids,” Bullen said. “Sportsmanship is very important and very good here in the valley.”

Photos by Stephanie Skinner and Jade Smith

When it comes to parents, Bullen does not usually notice them.

At high school basketball games, the crowds are so large that one parent’s voice will not stand out.

“In AAU we take a lot of grief,” Bullen said. “It’s an empty gym, so you hear it.”

The most frequent comments from parents like ‘be consistent’ or ‘call it both ways’ are heard so often, that it generally does not affect an official.

Bullen notices that the majority of parents only want what is best for their kids.

“Parents like to be proud of their kids,” Bullen said. “Occasionally they are nonrealistic.”

o&b | 27

Sports

New schools, new teams, new year Name: Cody Cottrell Sport: Football College signed with: Mesa State College As a smiling Cody Cottrell signed his letter of intent to become a Mesa State Maverick, a great weight was lifted from the football star’s shoulders.

“It’s a great stress reliever,” Cottrell said. “Now I’ve got to . . . get ready for spring ball.”

Cottrell will begin to train and practice throughout the spring with the team in preparation for football season next fall.

At 250 pounds, Cottrell will take his imposing presence to Mesa as a defensive lineman as both an edge rusher and a run stopping defensive tackle.

“Hopefully I’ll be able to start,” Cottrell said.

Cottrell will balance football with a rigorous schedule.

He intends to earn his degree in Fish and Wildlife Biology, and he hopes to work at the Colorado Division of Wildlife upon graduation.

Cottrell decided to stay in town so that his friends and family could watch him play.

For Mesa State’s newest player, experience gained at GJHS has been invaluable.

“Last season was huge,” Cottrell said. “I became a leader, and hopefully, in college I can do that same thing.”

nickyarja hollymeer paulharmon

Name: Ashley Wallace Sport: Soccer College signed with: Mesa State College Most people, in search of their dreams, are forced to go far and wide to achieve them. Fortunately for Ashley Wallace, she was able to stay in town for her dream.

Wallace signed her letter of intent to play soccer at Mesa State College on Feb. 2.

“The coach and I have been friends for a while, and I really like the girls,” Wallace said.

Mesa is a good start for Wallace, but she has not ruled out other colleges.

“It’s nice to start out here,” Wallace said. “But if I get other options, I would look into them.”

Wallace is looking forward to the new competition.

“It will be different transitioning into how they play,” Wallace said.

Wallace is also excited to compete against different teams.

“We’ll be playing everywhere, instead of just Denver or Western Slope teams,” Wallace said.

Wallace is looking forward to her dream.

“I am excited my soccer career isn’t over,” Wallace said.

Name: Whitney

Name: Tim

Sport: Soccer College signed with: Georgia State University

Sport: Soccer College signed with: Mesa State College

Ravan

Many high school athletes create online profiles for recruitment.

For Whitney Ravan, this paid off when Georgia State University coach Domenic Martelli noticed her.

“I posted a video profile, and the coach liked what he saw,” Ravan said. “He came to watch one of my high school games and asked me that night to sign.”

Ravan signed her letter of intent for soccer at Georgia State University on Feb. 2.

Ravan visited the school, met the girls and was fond of it.

“I’ve been out there twice and really liked the girls,” Ravan said.

Ravan is excited to be playing with new girls.

“I’m nervous; it’s a really big change,” Ravan said. “I’ll be playing with girls older and better than me.”

Although it will be a change for Ravan, she is still excited for the new start.

“I’m excited to start on the future,” Ravan said.

Ravan is moving in July to begin preseason training with the team.

28 | o&b

Hofer

Many high school athletes can only dream of taking their game to the next level and playing in college. For Tim Hofer, this dream has become a reality. Hofer signed on Feb. 2 to play soccer at Mesa State College next year.

Hofer was offered $1,500 to play at Mesa and felt that it was a good fit for him. He also knew the coach after playing for him during club soccer.

“I felt like I had a lot of support in Grand Junction,” Hofer said.

Hofer liked what Mesa had to offer from both an academic and athletic standpoint.

“The school is expanding and becoming a really nice college. I like the soccer stadium, and playing for [Josh] Pittman,” Hofer said.

Hofer is most looking forward to being able to work on, and further develop his skills. “(I’m excited about) improving as a player, and becoming a better technical player,” Hofer said.

Hofer is focusing on having a good college career.

“As a freshman I just want to come in and fight for some playing time,” Hofer said.

Photos by Stephanie Skinner, Jade Smith and Lacee Kilgore

february 2011

&health

Depression. n: a condition of emotional withdrawal. (See page 29.)

Tennis One can play with up to three other people and have an epic tennis match. The player can choose between sets of one, three or five game matches. While playing against the computer or a friend, the Wii characters run around the court, the players just need to worry about hitting the ball.

Bowling

Graphic

by Kaleigh Bell Graphic

by Kaleigh Bell

Wii Sports tessakester The Wii system is a great exception to traditional video games.

Instead of a person sitting on the couch exercising their thumbs, players stand up, flail their arms, kick their legs and work up a sweat. Instead of paying $30 to $50 a month at a gym, one can pay $199 for a Wii and get a lifetime of fun exercise.

Many people do not consider using the Wii as a way to lose weight, but if one works hard enough while using the Wii, one could find it to be a useful machine that is not only

fun, but also a good workout. Chris Teal, junior, believes that the only way to get anything out of the Wii is if one really tries.

“If they are truly legit, and if it gets your breath going and your cardio up, it could be like going to the gym and going for a walk,” Teal said. “It is kind of a joy killer when I stand up (to bowl) and do an epic throw and my brother lays on the couch and flicks his wrist and gets a strike.”

Aaron Minnick, junior, plays Wii only once a month but believes that Wii Sports can help you work up a sweat.

“You could (lose weight) if you worked out hard enough. (Wii sports

involves) constant movement, unlike other video games,” Minnick said.

Constant movement is not the only important aspect of losing weight. It takes hard work and dedication.

“After a while, your body will start losing calories, but you have to eat properly too,” Minnick said.

Although many people find that going out on a run is more effective, Nik Sulley, junior, thinks that the Wii is a noteworthy way to lose weight and get an excellent workout.

“I would (try the) Wii just to see if it actually works, but it is the people who play for five minutes and go eat a hamburger afterward who don’t lose weight and complain,” Sulley said.

Wii Bowling is a fun new way to go bowling without paying costly lane fees. The Wii remote plays the role of one’s arm before they release the ball. The player swings their arm, much like regular bowling, and releases the trigger and the ball goes flying down the lane.

Boxing Boxing on the Wii is an enjoyable way to let out anger or have a good time with friends. One or two players can fight with the computer or an opponent. Boxing gives the player a workout by swinging the remote around in attempt not to get knocked out by another fighter.

What is your favorite Wii Sport? ”Boxing, me and my little brother get pissed off and take it to the Wii. (It) lets out a lot of anger and stress.”

“Tennis, I kick butt and take names!”

“Bowling, it’s a game where everybody wins and you don’t have to pay for bowling shoes.”

Lizzie Walt, 12

Abby Dailey, 11

Dustin Harbert, 11

Compiled by Aubri Wiley

february 2011

o&b | 29

Health

Climbing the mountain of teen depression Sophomore Anna Exby shares her struggle with depression as a high school student katherinegibson

by Ch els ea S

he ttle r

“Once you’re depressed, how you feel runs how you’re living; your feelings are leading your thoughts and behaviors. Feelings are real and valid, but they don’t make anything true. They don’t prove anything,” toolbox. Stress will come from not having the tools, Young said. “When you can push kids, behaviorally, and part of our job is to coach and mentor and all into being out there, then that pushes the feelings of those things so that you feel good,” counselor Ann hopelessness back, and it starts to alter their thoughts.

Kuhlman, said.

We challenge their thoughts. If we can change behavteenage boy with shaggy brown hair Depression is not only related to stress. Some iors, most kids can start to put those behaviors in front. sits on his bed, head in his hands, people are predisposed to it due to Always the last part of depression to change elbows on his knees. The gloomy blue “I would just feel is your feelings. You can’t wait around to feel their genetics and biological inheriafternoon light floods through the tance. Others have depression due to like everyone had better because it won’t work.” window and onto his tired face. He knows he should some sort of trauma they have gone Many teenagers learn skills to handling do his homework — he has not done any in the last these connections their through. problems. They may see a therapist or a month — but he will not be able to focus. The bags to other people “Throughout our lives, there is counselor, but often listening and a little bit under his eyes are visible as he stares off into space, a constant interplay between our of direction can go a long way. seeing nothing around him. His life is spinning out — it was almost genetics and our environment, our “We talk about skills — coping skills. It’s of control, and there is no one to save him from electric — and experiences,” Young said. “Think just a sense of being overwhelmed — the himself. of it this way: there are a bunch of Depression in teenagers is more common than then I was a black pressures that are put on you, the pressures seeds you throw out into a that you put on yourself. Usually the way you people know. Most do not recognize “I didn’t reach garden, and how you take spot. Like the bulbs react to this issue is how you react to others. the signs, and if they do, they do not When depression is going on, you just need know how to help. out for help. That care of that garden is going weren’t lighting to determine what kind of to talk. It’s pretty cool to have someone just “(Depression) is a really personal up.” was one of the crops you produce. Seeds listen. It’s hard to do that because (people) suffering. It’s something that you get tired of it; (they) get tired of listening to it all the want to keep to yourself because biggest problems. are like the genetics, and the environment is essentially in the garden.” time, and (they) get tired of watching someone chroniyou feel like it’s going to be a burden I stayed within “So you can be genetically loaded, and you cally go through something and never really make a to anyone if you talk to them about that circle of my- can have a potential for depression. It may decision to change that behavior,” Kuhlman said. it,” sophomore Anna Exby said. She never unmask if your environment is stable For a student with depression, it is easy to give up. It was diagnosed with depression three self.” enough, but if your environment destabilizes, is difficult to concentrate, and most experience fatigue years ago. “I didn’t reach out for help. then that depression can break through. So what we around the clock.

That was one of the biggest problems. I stayed within have to do is work with both to get the environment “When I’m depressed, I start feeling numb, and that circle of myself.” stable and to bring the depression back down.” sensations become less vivid. I won’t remember dreams, Most teens with depression feel the same way.

Exby’s experience had to do more with her environand it’s like watching myself on a boring movie that’s on Adolescent males have a harder time admitting their ment than anything else. Her relationships with others in the middle of the afternoon. So, I’m not really paydepression than females because of society’s expectabegan to dissipate and isolation set in. ing attention to my life,” Exby said. tions. Boys are taught to hold things in, while girls “A rumor was spread that cast me Exby has received treatment, though, and are told to let it out. Either way, teenagers struggle to “Once you’re as the worst kind of person. It made has learned from her experience. cope with life. most of the people I know lose trust in depressed, how “I have become more balanced in my life. “(Teenagers) have pretty complicated lives. There me. It was loneliness essentially; that I’ve realized how important it is to maintain are so many factors. Some of those are just the you feel runs how was where it started. I would just feel certain levels of things — like schoolwork changes with physiologically with puberty. Some you’re living. Your and social things. I think I’ve become far like everyone had these connections teenagers get way in over their head — substance to other people – it was almost electric feelings are leadmore mature because of it. It’s so much abuse, relationships that go further or in the wrong – and then I was a black spot. Like the to really live,” Exby said. direction, they live somewhat independent from ing your thoughts easier bulbs weren’t lighting up. I felt disconEighty percent of teenagers with deprestheir families, but still scrutinized,” psychologist and behaviors.” nected from people,” Exby said. sion can be treated with the help of a doctor Cheryl Young said.

Both Young and Kuhlman believe or therapist. Many local clinics offer free A lot of depression in teens is thought to be seclusion is common among the teenage population. or discounted treatment for teens. There is help for stress-related. Some kids take on too much and canMany teens feel lost in their own school, like they are depression. By being aware and being perceptive, other not handle the load. drowning in the sea of students. To help those sepastudents can have a positive impact, and that encour“Typically, when you realize you’re stressed, rated students, patterns of involvement and feelings agement could be the interaction that changes somethere’s something going on that you don’t have must change. one’s life. control of. You have to help somebody fill up their

Gr ap

hic

A

30| o&b

february 2011

Health

Tiger tries: Self-defense class

Each issue of the O&B, two staff members will try a diet or exercise program and document their results.

Two O&B editors to try a self-defense class in order to better prepare themselves for living on their own. Statistics show that 13 percent of college women were stalked during a six to nine month period and one in three dating relationships have resulted in some form of physical or emotional abuse. Self-defense teaches methods to ward off stalkers or attackers and how to use pepper spray.

Expectations

Benefits

Self-defense classes should be able to make everyone feel more confident and comfortable in their surroundings. If one feels as though they are in danger they should be able to plan for possible ways to protect themselves. Overall, one gains a greater knowledge of methods of defense and stratagies to identify a potential attacker.

Self-defense classes enable students to remain calm and collected during an encounter with an attacker while also giving them the ability to recognize and prevent an attack using techniqes taught in the class. Practicing these techniques will also increase agility, coordination, balance, mobility and muscle tone.

Do not attempt without proper instruction and cause.

Graphic by Kyle Klements

february 2011

Photos by Aubri Wiley

“Finger break escape”

“Palm strike to the face”

“Knee to groin”

“Elbow strike to the face”

Goals

Results

Upon preparing for college or whatever lies ahead, many experts encourage female’s especially to take a self defense class. Self-defense classes offer all students, male or female a basic knowledge to be able to ward off an attacker. These classes will ready any student for whatever dangers they feel may lie ahead.

The self-defense class proved to be effective in fulfilling its duty of preparing the editors for a potential encounter with an attacker. After completing the self-defense class they had learned strategies to fight off and divert attackers, while also gaining knowledge that allowed them to feel more confident and safe in their surroundings.

o&b | 31

Haleigh Jacobson (1,2,4,6,7) Stephanie Skinner (3,5)

1. Junior Marcus Wirth pumps up his team while the starters are being announced for the game against FMHS Friday, Feb. 4 when the Tigers fell 43-47.

2. Head Girl Izzy Trinklein reacts to the technical difficulties that occured during the winter sports pep assembly held Friday, Feb. 4.

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3. Senior Nick LeFebre sprints to chase the ball before it bounces out of bounds during the FMHS vs. GJHS game. The Tiger boys played a tough game but lost 58 to 34.

4. Senior Miranda Dvorak boogies down at the Jazz Dinner Dance Saturday, Feb. 5.

5. Junior Rebecca Roskowski plays the bass during rehearsal for the upcoming musical ‘The Wizard of Oz’. The show opens Thursday, Feb. 17 at 7p.m.

6. Senior Camille Goodsell celebrates her senior year as a Tiger varsity basketball player.

7. Speech and Debate Coach Anthony Meyers informed students at the pep assembely about the first ever district qualifying Congressional Debate held at GJHS Friday, Feb. 4.

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