O&B 2010 issue 8 by Haleigh Jacobson

THE

ORANGE & BLACK

New players in new positions ﬁll big shoes for the tiger tennis team. Grand Junction High School

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

Volume 92 • Issue 8

| May 2010

Index

ORANGE & BLACK

THE p. 7

Now Margeaux Prinster • Baylee Ragar Connection McKenzie Binder • Hannah Cook InSight Sarah Bolton • Katie Langford Scene Jillian Arja • Amy Nelms

Music road trip

Six of Colorado’s best music festivals are mapped out.

Take a hike

Get a guide to the best hiking spots to explore this summer and how to be prepared on any adventure.

On the Cover Emma Holt, Maddy Hayduk and Nicky Arja stepped up to new positions on the tennis team this past season. Cover photo illustration by Haleigh Jacobson

Seniors say goodbye

The graduating editors of the Orange & Black offer words of wisdom to the next generations of Tigers.

Open to Interpretation Zack Kelley • Natalie Pipe Sports Cody Holman • Grayson O’Roark In Motion Alyssa Behrens • Noelle DePuey Photography Editor Kristin Balbier Advertising Samantha Weinberg • Gillian McLean Carson Laudadio • Alex Proietti Webmasters Zach Bryner • Dylan Arvig Phoenix Boyd

Branching out

Web McKenna Moe • Richard Gonzales

Within months of their leave, the GJHS exchange students reﬂect on their experiences in Grand Junction.

Graphic Artists Garrett Brown • Greg Coleman Kyle Rogers • Jonas Cooper Patrick Davenport • Chelsea Shettler Reporters Kaitlin Cain • Kimberlyn Bennett Madison Gurley • Kim Horwitz Hannah Kimmel • Kyleigh Larson Jake Meyer • Regina Papas Ben Peterson • Fawn Puhler Josh Shettler • Mary Steel Devan Thibodaux • Spencer Pendry Photographers Claire Cooper • Sara Harrison Haleigh Jacobson • Maria LeFebre Alexandra Tennant • Cody Blankenship Video Kevin Reed • Cory Casselberry Jenna Maneotis Adviser Rick Jussel

Have an OPINION about something going on at the school? Send a letter to the editor and be heard. Email it to: gjhsnews@gmail.com. Only authored letters will be published, so include your name. Policy

The Orange and 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 and 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 and 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

and 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 and 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.

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News Graphics and photos courtesy of Wikipedia

A helping hand around the world Margeaux Prinster

All about:

Invisible Children has recently seen its hopes become a reality. The non-profit organization strives to help Ugandan children who have been abducted and forced to fight in a guerilla army. On May 11, with a final vote in the House of Representatives, Congress fully passed the Lord’s Resistance Army Disarmament and Northern Uganda Recovery Act. This legislation allows for the pursuance of Joseph Kony, leader of the Lord’s Resistance Army and the man behind the children enslaved to the guerilla efforts. Invisible Children carried out an intense, year-long lobbying campaign in order to get the legislation through Congress, both of which passed with more Congressional support than any Africa- focused bill in United State’s history.

Rising gas prices Margeaux Prinster Students can expect less spending money this summer as gas prices continue to rise. However, there is good news as analysts say that the rising price of gasoline reﬂects a quickly recovering economy. “The economy is recovering maybe more quickly than oil producers and the reﬁnery industry themselves even

“

For ﬁnding Big Foot.

Connor Dunn, 11

“

Invisible Children has also been an earthquake recovery force in Haiti. The organization has paired with local charities to bring clean drinking water to the homeless and displaced, especially those in the swelling rural areas as relief has been addressed within Port-au-Prince. To support Invisible Children’s eﬀorts in Haiti, visit their Unshaken campaign at invisiblechildren.com/helphaiti. realized,” Round Earth Capital’s John Kilduff said. The prices have been driven up by the increased economic activity. In contrast, analysts also report that rising gas prices could be a detriment to consumers who struggle to make ends meet in this economic crisis. Whatever the effects may be, gas prices are poised to fall as Memorial Day approaches.

Studies show that consumers should buy gas during the coolest time of day, which is generally in the early morning or late evening. This helps to save gas by allowing the customer to get the most gasoline for their money because during these times, gasoline is densest.

Save gas: top down

Vinyl tops cause air drag and should be removed from cars to create fuel efﬁciency. Rough surfaces disturb the smooth air ﬂow around the car’s body and force the car to use more gas to move at a certain speed. Sun roofs, rocket boxes and bike or ski racks have the same detrimental effect.

”

I’d probably be break dancing out at Canyon View.

Sarah Wetzbarger, 11

Save gas: buy at speciﬁc times

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If you were to make the news this summer, what would you make the news for?

“

”

Probably for disc golﬁng.

Cory DeRush, 11

“

”

For being the ﬁrst woman to go to Africa on a hover craft.

”

Jeslyn Szabo, 10

“

For spending a day with Tiger Woods.

Preston Jull, 9

”

Compiled by Margeaux Prinster Photos by Alex Tennant

Save gas: do not speed Following legal speed limits results in increased safety, as well as better fuel efﬁciency. Stoplights are usually timed for the driver’s motoring advantage. Traveling steadily at the legal speed limit boosts a driver’s chances of hitting green lights the whole way, eliminating stops and starts that waste gas. 03

News

Tragic Failures

Conﬂict in Darfur continues to decimate Sudan Baylee Ragar Margeaux Prinster

ow entering its sixth year, the genocide in Darfur continues to tear apart Sudan. The United Nations estimates that overall 4.7 million people in Darfur are still affected by this conflict. With casualties extremely high and on the rise, this conflict has been described as one of the worst humanitarian crises in the world by the United Nations. In the spring of 2003, the political strife began when two rebel movements, the Sudan Liberation Movement and Justice and Equality Movement, launched attacks on the government to fight against political and economic inequality in the lower classes of Darfur. The Sudanese government was 04

already engaged in negotiations with the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement Army in an attempt to end a three-decades long civil war between North and South Sudan. Under the pressure of two large conﬂicts, the Sudanese government acted quickly and forcefully to end the insurgency. Coordinated military raids by a government-armed militia targeted the ethnic groups from which the rebel forces received the majority of their support. Thus, countless innocent lives were taken, and over 400 villages were completely destroyed. Since then, more than 300,000 people have been killed, and even more have ﬂed across the border to Chad. Many civilians still living in the country are forced to live in refugee camps in neighboring countries. The mass displacement of civilians, coupled with the direct attacks

and deterioration of living conditions, prompted President George W. Bush to declare the crisis in Darfur a genocide in 2004, the first time a sitting American president has made such a declaration in regard to an ongoing conflict. In May 2006, peace agreements were signed between the Sudanese government and one of the rebel movements. However, the government continued to fight the remaining two rebel groups. The situation worsened when internal divisions caused fighting within the remaining rebellion forces. Unfortunately, the violence has spilled over into eastern Chad and the Central African Republic. In January 2008, the United Nations peacekeeping force replaced their peacekeeping mission, still in Darfur, which was lacking the necessary equipment and funds to continue helping the dying and

Photos and graphic courtesy of Wikipedia

Darfur is a region in western Sudan. Hundreds of thousands have ﬂed to neighboring Chad. displaced. These forces are still in need of resources to help protect the 2.7 million internally displaced persons living in refugee camps across Darfur.

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THE FIRST GIVES YOU FIVE.

SPEECH • RELIGION • PRESS • ASSEMBLY • PETITION Donate to the American Cancer Society today! Contact a member of our Grand Junction High School National Honor Society team to donate. Orange&Black

Come and support the relay June 18-19 at Longs Memorial Park (next to Central High School). For more information go to www.fjgasfoas.com 05

News

Controversy near the border Josh Shettler Illegal immigration has been a long-lasting issue Chloe in the United States for several decades. Jagelski, 10 Most recently, this topic has been the focus of “Making people controversy in American politics because of the have to carry recent passage of the Arizona Senate Bill SB1070. papers of lawful Signed into law by Governor Jan Brewer of entry to the US is Arizona, SB1070 is designed to curb the number of illegal immigrants in Arizona. ridiculous.” Brewer decided to take immigration reform to the state level because she felt that President Obama is inadequately dealing with the border problem. Elle “The responsibility to ensure that we have an Wezensky, 10 orderly, secure border – not just some imaginary “It’s not really line in the dirt or a rickety fence – belongs to the helping the cause... federal government,” Brewer said in a press release. there’s a better way “[The federal government has] failed.” Massive controversy surrounds this bill because to go when dealing of its approach to combat illegal immigration. with this issue.” The bill allows police or a state agency to request documentation of legal residency or legal entry into the U.S. during lawfully stop, detention the bill in hopes that Brewer will repeal it. or arrest of an individual. Massive protests have been held in large cities If the person in question does not immediately across the U.S. provide the necessary paper work to prove lawful While no extreme amount of violence has broken entry or citizenship in the U.S., then that person out, the demonstrations have caught media attention will be detained until proof of citizenship, or lack as well as the concerns of politicians. thereof, is proven. Some people are calling for a boycott of the 2011 “This bill does stop people from illegally immigrating into the U.S. It deals with the people who Major League Baseball All-Star Game, set in Phoenix, in protest of the bill. are already here instead of trying to fix the probSeveral politicians and a few playlems with the border itself,” Troy ers are urging Major League Baseball Monger , sophomore, said. Commissioner Bud Selig to change the Since the bill was signed in April, “I firmly believe it represents what’s venue. opponents have argued that this Members of Congress, including bill unconstitutionally causes racial best for Arizona” Latino Senator Robert Menendez of profiling. New Jersey, are now calling for Major “Regardless of what others say, League Baseball to either move the this bill will cause racial profiling… All-Star game out of Phoenix, or for players to boycott Stopping somebody because of how they look or the game. because of their race is wrong,” Emma Rieves, Despite the protests, Brewer and other supportjunior, said. ers of the bill are standing firm and will not consider Many opponents of the bill argue that there rescinding it. is no way for a police officer to determine what “I’ve decided to sign Senate Bill 1070 into law qualifies a person as looking suspicious besides the because, though many people disagree, I firmly believe color of the person’s skin. it represents what’s best for Arizona,” Brewer said. Now, some citizens are taking a stand against

Picture courtesy of MCT Campus

Stephen Baldwin, 10

“I think this bill is exactly what we need regardless of whether or not it causes racial proﬁling.”

Paul Harmon, 11

“Sometimes rights need to be pushed a little in order to ensure a safe country for American citizens.” Photos by Haleigh Jacobson “There is no higher priority than protecting the citizens of Arizona.” To combat the accusations of racial profiling, Brewer issued an executive order that includes Arizona Peace Officer Standards and Training Board, AZPOST, to train police officers how to identify what does and does not qualify as racial profiling. “We must enforce the law evenly, and without regard to skin color, accent or social status,” Brewer said. Brewer is also asking AZPOST to make recommendations on ways to rectify any misconceptions or gaps in the bill. “States like California, Arizona, New Mexico and Texas are taking the brunt of the effects of illegal immigration,” Jeslyn Szabo, sophomore, said. “Arizona has every right to implement this bill.” While many Americans have strong varying opinions on the issue of illegal immigration, many agree that concerns with the border needs to be addressed. Immigration reform on the federal level is expected to happen soon, after President Obama opens debate on the issue later this summer.

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News

Businesses seep into Junction

Photo by Devan Thibodaux

Devan Thibodaux When a new business opens in Grand Junction, residents line up and swarm the area. That is what happened when Cabela’s recently opened. Logan Bell, junior, was estatic for its opening, as a fan of hunting, ﬁshing, hiking and other outdoor activities. “I’m so excited! I like going to Cabela’s, and it will also produce jobs and help out the community,” Bell said. In the past eight months, numerous businesses have come into the area said Diane Shwenke, the CEO of the Grand Junction

Chamber of Commerce, a non-proﬁt association of businesses throughout Grand Junction. “The city has always been a regional center for retail, and having new businesses will add to that identity,” Shwenke said. Businesses that have made a home in Grand Junction are Hooters, Clear Talk Wireless, Mega Wraps Hooters opened up on and Which Wich?, among others. North Ave. in November The editor of the Grand Junction Business Times, Phil Castle, thinks of 2009. They are best that the incoming businesses will known for their wings help the city. and their “well-rounded” “I think these businesses are a service. great thing. It will give the chains and local businesses (opportunity) Mega Wraps opened in to beneﬁt each other and the town,” Mesa Mall October of Castle said. 2009. They specialize More chain businesses are in making healthy wrap expected to arrive in the valley in the sandwiches. upcoming months. Since the city’s population passed 100,000 over a Which Wich? is a sandwich decade ago, it became a Metropolitan shop that opened up on Statistical Area, which is what retailPatterson Road at the ers consider when bringing chains into a city. beginning of May.

Cabela’s is a sports and hunting equipment store that had its grand opening on May 20, 2010. According to the Business Times, “TGI Friday’s restaurant and Anchor Blue have expressed interest in the Grand Junction market. Others, such as CVS Pharmacies and Fashion Bug, have examined Grand Junction but are holding off on development.” They gave no official answer as to if they are bringing their establishments into Grand Junction anytime soon. Castle is looking forward to the help these businesses will bring to the town. “Letting these businesses help each other will draw people from outside of the area. I think these (new) businesses reflect the growth of Grand Junction and show the promise of more growing in the future,” Castle said.

Main Street receives facelift Devan Thibodaux

People walk along Main Street looking into the shop windows as if gazing into the mirrors of a carnival funhouse. The artsy feel and cultural essence of this timeless street attracts tourists and locals of all ages. The city has temporarily interfered with the ambience of Main Street by starting construction to improve the downtown experience. The updates to Main Street are part of the Downtown Uplift project, which has been underway since the beginning of January. The current construction, be-

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tween First and Fourth Streets, is only the ﬁrst phase in changing Main Street. The second phase consists of Fourth through Seventh Street, with construction set to start one year from now. Doug Barnett, an employee of Ruby Canyon Cycles has been supportive of the changes. “Main Street has been falling apart as far as walkways and utilities go,” Barnett said. “Our customers have been pretty loyal, and the winter season was far worse for us. I think it’ll be great for downtown to look nice, new and clean.” The development began because of the city’s need to replace trees, sidewalks, storm drains, waterlines and lighting along the seven

blocks. Paul Knaysi, an employee at Pablo’s Pizza, located in the middle of the construction, is still looking on the bright side despite the construction hindering business. “The construction has hurt our business, but the improvements will be welcomed. I see it as short-term pain creating long-term gain,” Knaysi said. The construction will be continuing for another year. After Grand Junction’s plans and changes to Main Street are ﬁnished, downtown visitors will have much more to see and enjoy while strolling down the new Main Street.

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Want your VOICE TO BE HEARD?

Write a LETTER TO THE EDITOR! Bring your LETTER to Room 141 or e-mail gjhsnews@gmail.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

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Opinion

Recognition of 4.0 students is excessive Natalie Pipe

e have become a society that rewards the advantaged rather than a society that rewards the people who learn from mistakes, overcome adversity and triumph over difficulties. My parents have always told me they would be happy with my grades if I was happy with them. They never pushed me to get all A’s. So I sailed with ease through my first semester of freshman year, receiving A’s except for one B and three B pluses. Seeing the B pluses on my report card made me realize that with just a little more effort, I could achieve A’s. I changed my attitude second semester and ended up receiving only one B. This trend continued into my sophomore and then junior year, the year when I achieved a 4.0 for my first time in high school while taking two Advanced Placement classes. In addition to this upward trend, every year in high school—with the exception of my junior year—my second semester GPA is always higher than my first semester GPA. While I value the self-motivation I have developed and the growth I have made, my accomplishments have recently been devalued. Last month, 15 GJHS seniors

along with other seniors in the was thankfully born to parents who district were honored at the Supervalue my education. I was thankfully intendent’s Luncheon for achievborn to parents who have helped me ing a 4.0 or higher all four years deal with Attention Deficit Disorder in high school. As a close friend of since fifth grade; they wouldn’t even three of those honored, I know that let a learning disorder keep me from my accomplishments took at least learning and being successful. as much effort as theirs, but I still It’s no surprise I turned out sucended up feeling bad enough about cessful. I don’t need or deserve an myself to cry when I got home. As award for being born to the right a Newtonian law of physics states, parents at the right time. “For every action there Someone who deis an opposite or equal serves recognition is a “It’s no surprise reaction” -- the lunstudent who lives with I turned out cheon values a certain an alcoholic father yet number of students, maintains a 3.4 GPA. successful. I don’t and the rest are inherSomeone who deserves need or deserve is a student ently devalued. For this an award for being recognition reason, GPA should who lives alone and not be used as the most born to the right works a job to support important means of parents at the right himself while mainmeasuring, recognizing time.” taining a 3.0 GPA. or rewarding worth, These students deserves value or achievement. recognition over me. The solution to this is not recogThey struggle with more and have nizing the individuals such as myself. overcome more than me and probI don’t want or deserve recognition. I ably the vast majority of the Superwas thankfully born to parents who intendent’s Scholars. constantly make personal sacrifices It would behoove us as a society for my success. They give me fewer to value accomplishments in themchores if they know I have a lot of selves rather than seek reaffirmation, homework. They stop watching tele- especially when it directly ends up vision if I want to study in the living demeaning others. The Superinroom. I was thankfully born to partendent’s Luncheon rewards the ents who are willing to spend their inherently advantaged, which is a time helping me with homework in- counterproductive social practice we stead of dealing drugs or even doing should seek to avoid. house work. I was thankfully born to parents who pay for my violin lessons. I

-The ﬁrst squeeze is always the best. -Stop your eyes. -Sitting here working on history, I have realized the ultimate test of tongue strength: Try to click a G-2. -I’d rather Kum & Go than Loaf ‘N Jug. -I want to entertain my mouth while I study. -It smells like goat dung to me, so I like it. -It’s always the quiet ones who take their pants off. -He thinks your shoulder is a watering hole. -’There was an eclipse on the ACT.’ ‘You mean an ellipse?’ ‘Yeah.’ -He’s so far in the closet he is Narnia. Orange&Black

Words of Wisdom Tony Myers -Take responsibility for yourself. -Hard work pays the biggest dividends. -Don’t use things intended for the handicapped. -Laziness, arrogance, rudeness and stupidity are not recognized as handicaps, although they will function as such in your life. -Mean people suck. -Admit when you’re wrong. -Be respectful to people, even when they don’t deserve it. -However, when you meet someone who is a bully or fascist, cut them off at the knees and NEVER trust them. Show no mercy to them. They will show none to you.

Compiled by Natalie Pipe

-Don’t you just love the underlying dust smell of cats? -I’d let him chase my snitch with his broomstick. -I need to wash these jeans. They smell like party. -You can’t expect us to know the difference between your lip chap and porn. -It’s like a moped; it’s fun until someone sees you. -It feels like there are little ninjas trying to climb up out of my mouth. -Prune your children and their fruit will grow bigger. -Will you make sure they don’t touch my lightsaber? 09

Opinion

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Props

-Mr. Bilbo attending music concerts and other school events. -The creation of S.T.R.I.V.E. -Students who don’t grind at dances. -The accomplishments of the Drama Department under Mr. Whiteford. -Increased use of technology in schools. -Facebook facilitating human connections. -Students who go out of their way to promote a positive image of teenagers. -Spontaneous late night adventures and voyages around town. -Learning to rise above the pointless drama that often consumes the high school population. -Smiling through the rough times. -Students who make efforts to establish a friendly relationship with their teachers. -People who branch out of their comfort zones. -Those who were not infected by the plague of ‘senioritis.’ -Students who balance an academic, extracurricular and social life. -Students who demonstrate the qualities of PRIDE.

Flops

of high school

Photo by Haleigh Jacobson

“High school is a lot like a strip club; you go in, spend a lot of money and time, and when you leave, you really have nothing to say for yourself.” -Zack Kelley, EIC

-Teachers who are unwilling to compromise with students. -Student who disrespect school property and teachers. -Bigots. Students or otherwise. -Ignorance and apathy among the teenagers. -People who use poor grammar. -Excessive use of profanity. -Class division at pep assemblies. We are supposed to be uniting, not dividing. -Bullies. -Grand Junction residents for not voting for more education funding. We have an obligation to our fellow human beings and citizens. -People who use tobacco on campus. -Students who take their education for granted. -Students who disrespect teachers. -People who are not positive enough to embrace high school and try to bring others down with them. -Thieves. Stealing is just wrong. -Self-centered people who are unable to recognize the struggles that others face. -Students who block the hall and door ways. -People who spread untruths.

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Opinion

Get naked Hannah Kimmel

Comfortably walking around naked is a feat that requires maximum acceptance of one’s body. With summer beginning and the weather heating up, this time of the year marks the peak of minimal clothing. The higher the temperature, the higher the hemline on pants, shorts or skirts, the skinnier the straps on shirts and the tighter and thinner the clothes become. With more visible skin, body concerns consequently emerge, and “swimsuit season” forces everyone, male and female, to strive for the immediate satisfaction of achieving an ideal body. But why? The visuals of retouched bodies presented by the media place an unnecessary emphasis on tiny waistlines, large chests, flawless and smooth skin, hairlessness and overall perfection. These images cause viewers to compare their own bodies to the unnatural, unattainable, and ultimately unreal perfect bodies they see. Inevitably, their bodies will never seem good enough. Allowing this insecurity to consume all thought overshadows the enjoyment that comes with summertime activities. Essentially, the weather and lack of clothing make summer the vital time to embrace one’s body, not to harbor insecurities. It is irrational to gauge one’s physical attractiveness by assessing individual traits instead of appreciating the numerous unique features that make a body beautiful as a whole. In actuality, all bodies are striking products of nature and should be recognized as incredible composite beauties. To convey that full beauty, everyone must carry their body with self-assurance. When people act confident, they appear confident, which is attractive. Being insecure around others has the opposite effect, making an individual seem withdrawn and undesirable. Overt insecurity is a virus, and if it is not consciously fought, it will infect and repel others, not attract them. Even if someone thinks a certain physical trait is ugly, the noticeable unattractive quality is the lack of confidence. Some individuals take the concept of body image acceptance and become nudists to openly express their beliefs that bodies, in any form, should be celebrated for their inherent splendor. To accept one’s body does not mean that shedding all clothing or donning the skimpiest clothing possible is required. However, if that is the method by which one can learn to flaunt his or her body proudly, and he or she is in the appropriate setting, then by all means, get naked.

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Photo by Haleigh Jacobson

Staff Editorial

Going with the

s we near the end of yet another school year, we often pause and reflect on the many trials and tribulations we faced in order to get to this point. While reminiscing we often find that, at the time of our innumerable obstacles, we feel as though they are the death of us. However, when we pass them, we realize that they are merely tiny stones in the riverbed of life that we are flowing through. Now, if this analogy makes you laugh, by all means, please do. That is the point . Smile through life’s many problems and remind yourself: “This too shall pass.” No matter how dire a situation appears, there is light at the end of the tunnel, still an ocean for the river to flow into. Always, always smile. Your smile can bring light to a person in need. Though we go with the flow, and all problems in life are something to be merely washed over,

Flow

occasionally the rocks build up and cause rapids in our rivers. If we find ourselves facing these rapids, a friendly smile, even from a stranger, can calm our river from a raging, white-water terror to a glass-surfaced, lazy stream. As some of us boldly step into the real world, we wonder, “Am I going to make a difference?” The answer is “yes.” Even with a simple smile you can take someone out of their rapids and into the calm. By simply going with the flow, we make a difference. The world that we flow through is shaped by us; our thoughts and our actions make paths in the world that can never be reversed. For this reason, we must follow the flow and never turn our rivers uphill; we will only be swayed in an unintended direction. Never let anyone tell you that “going with the flow” is a way of evading challenges. Simply rise above the regular strife one finds in nearly everyday life. When faced with a challenge, do not flow away from it, but instead flow through it with a level head. The rapids of life are all navigable, but only with a calm mind and a deep breath. To stress and panic

in the face of rapids does not help one clear the way; it only distracts from the matter at hand. Smiling, being optimistic in the face of rapids, staying positive through our challenges and thinking elevated thoughts will allow us to flow more easily through the rapids and onto the glass-surfaced parts of life. The trials we all have faced cover a broad spectrum, and no two people share the same experiences or outlooks on life. As each individual’s river continues to flow, some shall merge to make a major current, gaining a greater understanding of other’s perspectives. As the flow continues, everyone encounters a slew of new and old challenges, but if we flow through them with a deep breath, then we will be able to overcome them without the stress and white-water intensity we previously dealt with.

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Did you e

njoy the edition o f the Tiger Yearbook ?

Then sav e up this summer s o y the 2011 ou can buy edition th is fall for $5 0. Orange&Black

Features

g n hi

t u O

c n ra

Many students have never left the country, let alone lived in a different one. This year, GJHS became the new home to ďŹ ve international students and one GJHS student took the opportunity to live in Japan.

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Features

From Junction to Japan GJHS student Susan McKenney spends ends a year overseas

Sarah Bolton Katie Langford

pending eight months thousands of miles away from home sounds like a disaster for many high school students, but not for sophomore Susan McKenney. While life goes on in Grand Junction, she is fulﬁlling her dream of living in Japan and immersing herself in a radically diﬀerent culture that has fascinated her since childhood. McKenney’s interest in Japan was sparked when she wrote a report on the culture in third grade. As she grew older, her love of the country motivated her to pursue an overseas exchange program. Fear of distance and culture clash never hindered McKenney. “Since going to Japan was my dream, there was no reason in my mind not to go,” McKenney

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said. After a long process and countless interviews across Colorado, she was finally chosen by the Rotary program to live in Japan for a year. function in McKenney has lived groups. (They use) with three host families so giving gifts and affection to far, each located in different parts build relationships,” McKenney said. of the country. McKenney has lived Despite a few quirks, like bein both urban and rural areas but ing allowed to sleep during class, prefers the city life for its diversity the classroom setting in Japan was and entertainment. overall more formal than in the “I (liked) the bright city lights United States. Students are expected with people walking the streets to stand and greet their teacher and with purple hair mixed with the then bow at the begintraditional kimonos ning and end of every and flower arranging,” “I have many class. McKenney said. places that I wish There are also other Though she never to see and a wallet strict rules imposed on felt homesick for long, that barely funds Japanese students. McKenney discovered “(We) are not aldifferences in her host a night at Regal lowed to walk and drink families that took some Cinemas.” juice, wear make-up, getting used to. roll-up (our) skirts or “My current host mother does not let me walk around send a text between classes,” McKenney said. the house without wearing a long When not in class or attending sleeved shirt and pants,” McKenney extra tutoring, McKenney likes to go said. “One of the biggest changes was not being able to pull a sick day to karaoke booths, sightsee and go out to eat with her friends and host and hide away in my own house family. for a day. In Japan, taking a day off “(On Sundays) I take the train to for no reason is like cutting off my Kyoto or Osaka and go sightseeing younger host sister’s arm.” with exchange students. I live for my Despite the differences, she Sunday sightseeing trips,” McKenadmires many parts of Japanese ney said. culture, including the high level of Although at times difficult, the respect within the community. “I enjoy how well Japanese can

different culture, traditions and routines have helped McKenney make unforgettable memories with her host families. “At midnight (on the Japanese New Year) we all hopped into the car and drove to the nearest hill with a temple at the top. My host sister Sumire and I went around to the diﬀerent areas of the temple to pray for a good year,” McKenney said. McKenney made friends in the exchange program from Australia, Sweden, Norway and Brazil who she hopes to visit in their home countries. “I have many places that I wish to see and a wallet that barely funds a night at Regal Cinemas,” McKenney said. Though she still has a long list of goals left, she remains optimistic. “It’s good to have dreams,” McKenney said.

Photos courtesy of Susan McKenney

reshman year, each student walks into their high school full of excitement and some fear. They are scared, yet they have the support of their peers surrounding them to help them through the tough first days. Now imagine going into a high school where the peers walking the halls are speaking a foreign language. This is the journey five students decided to embark on this year. The exchange program brought these students into the halls of GJHS, halls with not only a new language but also new faces and a new culture. Whether their origin is Europe or South America, the five students have managed to find their place in high school. Ana Petribu, junior, an exchange student from Brazil, decided to come to the U.S. because she thought that it offered her new opportunities. “[I came for] the opportunity to learn about the culture. Also, English is such a strong language, and I liked the open feeling that America has,” Petribu said. The opportunities that have been provided by the exchange program would not have been possible without the support of the exchange families, for they have not only provided them with a new home but a new family. Sebastian Henn, junior, came to GJHS from Germany on a foreign exchange program and has been living with Luke Olson’s, junior, family. He explained that his trip has been enjoyable because of the hospitality the Olsons have shown him. “I like them because they are very nice and supportive,” he said. Kari Kollbotn, junior, an exchange student from Norway, was able to gradually adapt to American life with the help of a supportive exchange family. “They are really nice. I feel like they are my second

Jillian Arja Jake Meyer

here. Sports are more important here and are used to make friends,” she said. The exchange students also noticed major differences within the schools and extracurricular activities. Henn and Kollbotn explained that schools in Europe are much more rigid and education oriented. “School life is diﬀerent. We don’t have athletic teams [in Germany]. It’s not a social place in Germany, it’s more like an academic place that you go to get an education,” Henn said. Kollbotn shared a similar schooling experience in Norway and wished that her school cared about school pride as much as GJHS. “The spirit here is so amazing,” Kollbotn said. “School in Norway is studying, studying, studying. It’s nothing social, you hardly see people in school at all. You have to be really independent to get through high school [in Norway].” Although the exchange students’ stay has been short lived, their trip has been rich in new experiences. Like walking down the halls on the ﬁrst day of high school, it may be scary in the beginning, but over time, new relationships are formed and new opportunities are discovered.

Photos by Haleigh Jacobson

Graphic by Garrett Brown

Kollbotn, Henn and Petribu with the two other GJHS exchange students, Ignacio Perez-Alonso from Spain and Alessandra Rossi from Italy, (From left) Kollbotn, Henn, Perez-Alonso, Rossi, Petribu.

family. It’s like getting a new mom, a new dad and a brother,” she said. Even with the support of their exchange families, the exchange students still faced challenges adjusting to the new culture. Kollbotn explained that upon arriving in the United States, she was faced with communication barriers. “I knew English [when I got here], but I was shy so I didn’t really know how to use it,” Kollbotn said. “I like to joke a lot, but joking in another language is like the worst thing you can do. You try to be funny and someone will be like, ‘what did she mean?’” Petribu had a similar experience overcoming the language barrier. “I didn’t understand anything. Going down the streets, I couldn’t read the signs, and they would be maybe a restaurant or a clothing store. Now it’s easy,” she said. Henn explained that speaking English was not the largest barrier to overcome when he arrived in the U.S. “[My English] was not too bad because I had to learn it in Germany, and I took it for three or four years,” he said. “The hardest part has been rebuilding my whole social network. It was pretty hard at first because I didn’t know anyone, and I didn’t know how stuff worked.” Despite different experiences communicating, the exchange students all noticed major cultural and environmental differences between the U.S. and their home countries. Henn and Petribu explained that Grand Junction had many more outlets for outdoor activities than their home countries. “I’ve gone skiing a lot since I got here,” Henn said. “We used to go to Switzerland for skiing, but it’s really expensive there. It’s a lot cheaper and closer here.” Petribu has been able to snowboard in the U.S. and was grateful that she got to see snow for the first time in her life. She also explained that sports in the U.S. are much more important than in her home country and have helped her make friends. “People really don’t join clubs [in Brazil] because it costs money. Exchange students are more involved

Exchange students from diﬀerent countries share their stories.

new lands

Branching out

Jillian Arja Jake Meyer

Photos by Haleigh Jacobson

Graphic by Garrett Brown

Kollbotn, Henn and Petribu with the two other GJHS exchange students, Ignacio Perez-Alonso from Spain and Alessandra Rossi from Italy, (From left) Kollbotn, Henn, Perez-Alonso, Rossi, Petribu.

Exchange students from diﬀerent countries share their stories.

new lands

Branching out

Tiger Tracks

(1) Honor teacher Kari Allerton hands out the class ﬂower, a lei. Allerton is leaving GJHS after three years of teaching in both the foreign language and art departments. (2) Senior class president Jessa Topai and class historian Caitlin Young celebrate the end of their high school careers. (3) Mark Stern and the rest of the senior class high ﬁve and applaud Michael Gebhard and Addison Eng after the pair performed their original composition. “We did it for the class,” they said. (4) Bryce Moglia-MacEvoy demonstrates his vocal talent by singing “100 Years” by Five for Fighting, accompanied on piano by Mark Stern. (5) Rachel Sherman accepts her diploma. Sherman’s yellow tassel denoted that she graduated with a GPA of 3.5 or above.

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Student Life Volunteer to Career

In what ways do you give back to the community?

Maria LeFebre Carson Laudadio

All about:

As students begin to fulfill their volunteer hours required to graduate, many consider the requirement to be a burden. However, some take advantage of the opportunity to try out new jobs that they may be interested in as a possible career. Nicole Travis, sophomore, volunteers at the District Attorney’s office to complete her service learning hours. Travis hopes to someday become a lawyer. Travis uses this volunteer opportunity to prepare herself for earning a minor in free law, attending graduate school and earning a degree in the area of law that she wishes to study. For now, Travis spends most of her time doing office work behind the scenes of the court room. There are many options available to serve as stepping stones into future careers, according to Terry Gurse, Grand Junction Police Department employee. The GJPD provides teens with the op-

Volunteering Maria LeFebre Teens tend to believe that money is the only thing gained from working. However, teen volunteers understand that they can earn more than just money by volunteering in their community. Junior Amy Flukey has volunteered for Partners, The

“ portunity to learn more about police work by offering rides along. “It shows how an officer deals with more minor incidents. You can see how we deal with traffic stops and fights,” Glen Klaich, dispatch supervisor, said. For teens looking for experience in different fields of work, there are other opportunities. Hospice, an organization that aids patients who have less than six months to live, has over 1,200 volunteers and offers many opportunities to teen volunteers in which their main job is providing the patients with companionship. Hospice, GJPD, the DA’s office and many others provide opportunities for student volunteers to prepare for their future career by learning basic skills and becoming familiar with the workplace.

Abby and Jennifer Recovery Foundation and the Mike Bamford Fund. “I like to volunteer because it takes my mind off of my own problems,” Flukey said. “I get to focus on other people.” Fundraising for Mike Bamford, Flukey has raised over $3,000 for his cancer treatment. Flukey volunteers for the Homeless Drive, which she created herself to gather school supplies and raise money for homeless students.

I volunteer at different places. I’ve helped out the Soup Kitchen and my old school (Holy Family). Harrison Boardwine, 10

“

By being friendly and making people happy. I smile and talk to people I don’t know. Katie Duncan, 9

“

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I help out with my brother’s baseball team. I like making them better human beings, better little men. Garrett Fante, 10

“

I like to volunteer at the Riverside Center and tutor.

Abigail Dailey, 10

“

”

I volunteer and helped my old wrestling coach with his team, and I’ve helped the younger lacrosse players this season. Michael Merluzzi, 9

”

Compiled by Jenna Maneotis Photos by Maria LeFebre, Jenna Maneotis and Carson Laudadio

Get close to nature through the DOW

Parks and Recreation

Helping construct happiness

The Division of Wildlife offers a volunteer experience that requires hard work and helps the environment. Volunteers do jobs such as bird tracking, cleaning trails and distributing brochures. To apply, visit the Division of Wildlife ofﬁce at 711 Independent Ave.

Volunteers for Parks and Recreation staff summer camps as well as after school programs and work other jobs that require public relations. To apply, visit the Parks and Recreation ofﬁce located at 1340 Gunnison Ave. Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Habitat for Humanity is a non-proﬁt organization that constructs houses for families in need of a home. Jobs include helping select eligible families, public relations and construction of houses. No prior construction experience is needed. Visit the HFH ofﬁce at 225 North Fifth St. for more information.

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Student Life

As a couple:

Graphic by Chelsea Shettler

Summer activities Meteor Showers

Cooking Competition

LOCATION: The kitchen COST: $10-$20 DESCRIPTION: Cooking as a couple is a relatively cheap, fun date for the summer. Go to the grocery store and see who can cook a better meal for $10, or hold a cakeoff. Frying chicken is also fun for more experienced chefs.

LOCATION: Any place with clear skies DATE: June 14-16, July 28-29, August 12-13 DESCRIPTION: Grab a blanket and a few snacks and head outside for a beautiful look at the stars. This is an ideal setting for in-depth, meaningful conversations.

Gold Panning

Ice Blocking

LOCATION: Any location with a hill COST: $3-$5 DESCRIPTION: Go sledding in the summer! Buy a large block of ice, lay a towel on top, ﬁnd a hill, sit on it and slide down. This is a perfect activity for sweltering summer days.

With friends: Rope the Rockies

LOCATION: Mesa County Fairgrounds DATE: June 18-20 at 8 a.m. COST: Free DESCRIPTION: This is a great way to try rock climbing. Students can learn in teams and eventually move from the fairgrounds to real rocks.

LOCATION: Any of the 8 million public acres of BLM land in Colorado COST: Requires a screen to sift minerals; rubber boots are recommended DESCRIPTION: Gold panning is a unique way to enjoy the outdoors. Take a dip in a stream and make conversation with a signiﬁcant other.

Geocaching

LOCATION: Visit www.geocaching.com to search for the closest spots COST: Requires GPS and a shovel DESCRIPTION: Geocaching is an activity where participants locate buried objects at secret locations using GPS positions posted on the Internet. Sign up and ﬁnd locations nearby. Make sure to bring plenty of water and hiking shoes.

Movies Under the Stars

LOCATION: Glade Park Volunteer Fire Department DATE: Every Friday night from June into August COST: Admission is free, and donations are optional; food items from the grill as well as from the concession stand are reasonably priced DESCRIPTION: A unique alternative to the traditional movie theater, Movies Under the Stars features family movies projected onto the side of the fire department building. All donations benefit the volunteer fire department.

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With family:

Student Life

Three Scenic Byways

LOCATION: Grand Rounds Byway, Colorado River Headwaters Byway and Dinosaur Diamond Byway DATE: Anytime DESCRIPTION: Grand Junction’s nearby scenic roads offer drives that make for a fun family day trip.

Botanical Gardens

LOCATION: Botanical Gardens DATE: First Sunday of every month COST: Free DESCRIPTION: The Botanical Gardens has beautiful walking trails, a full butterﬂy house and public gardens. The ﬁrst Sunday of every month is free, allowing for a cheap, fun and relaxing activity for families.

By yourself: Art Classes

LOCATION: The Art Center, at the intersection of 7th and Orchard Ave. DATE: Register as soon as possible Classes run June 7–July 26 COST: $15-$20 DESCRIPTION: Spend your summer developing your art skills and improving your creativity. To register, go to www.gjartcenter.org.

Mesa County Public Library

LOCATION: 530 Grand Avenue, Grand Junction DATE: 9 a.m.-8 p.m. DESCRIPTION: In addition to books, tapes and videos, the library offers a variety of activities throughout the summer, including poetry nights, book clubs and needlework groups. Orange&Black

Summer in the Milky Way’s Core

LOCATION: Saddlehorn Picnic Area, Fruita DATE: June 11, from dusk until 11 p.m. COST: Free DESCRIPTION: Join the Grand Valley Astronomy Club for a look at nebulas, planets and star forming clusters.

View Wild Horses

LOCATION: Little Bookcliffs, Sandwash Basin or Spring Creek DATE: Anytime COST: Free except for gas and camping supplies DESCRIPTION: Drive up for the day or camp overnight at any of these areas and view wild horses in their natural habitat.

Junk in the Trunk

LOCATION: Lincoln Park parking lot DATE: July 17 8 a.m.–2 p.m. COST: Free admission, but bring money for any good buys DESCRIPTION: A valley wide rummage sale, Junk in the Trunk allows one person’s trash to become another person’s treasure.

Bluegrass and Art Show

LOCATION: Twisted Brick Studios DATE: July 11–13 from 10 a.m.–5 p.m. COST: Free DESCRIPTION: Enjoy the themed art and jewelry show and sale while listening to bluegrass music.

Feed Ducks

LOCATION: Canyon View Park DATE: Anytime COST: $3-$10 for bread or cereal DESCRIPTION: This serene activity allows for deep thought and relaxation.

Go to www. visitgrandjunction. com/events this summer for even more information! 21

Student Life Graphic by Garrett Brown

Colorado Summer Music Festivals 22

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Sports Baseball works with Challenger

What was the most memorable moment of your senior sports season?

Alex Proietti

All about:

The GJHS baseball coaches worked with the leaders of the Challenger program to help the kids and get the team involved in the community. The Challenger program is a group in the Grand Valley that helps children with special needs. “All of my kids have a buddy for the day. They play the game with them, help them run bases and help teach them to play defense,” coach Dutch Johnson said. On May 4, the GJHS baseball team joined up with the Challenger program to play baseball with children with special needs. “Our whole team went, junior varsity and varsity, and we buddied up with the kids. We encouraged them and played baseball with them for a day,” junior Andy Willett said. Working with the Challenger program has become a tradition for the team. “We do it every year. It is fun because all we see in season is the competitive side of baseball. This is a great opportunity to see the fun side of it again,” Willett said. “It is just fun, and it is awesome to see how happy and joyful they are the whole time.”

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When I started my senior night game. I’ve never started, so it was just a great feeling to actually get to do it.

”

Whitney Robison, basketball Photo By Sarah Wetzbarger Each year, the program has a large impact on the team. “(The team) really enjoys it. They realize not to take things, (or) life, for granted,” Johnson said. “I think our kids have bigger smiles than the Challenger kids while they are there.” The GJHS baseball team enjoys the more relaxed environment of working with the Challenger program. “It is really nice working with them because it is just fun,” Willett said. “It is a more laid back environment, and we have a lot of fun with them.” The GJHS baseball team is looking forward to working with Challenger again in the near future.

Playoﬀs

Jonathan Wright, Stephanie Ryken, Joshua Flint, Sarah Versluis, Jamie Derrieux, Payton Glasoe and Nelson Rock Kyleigh Larson were state track finalists this GJHS had many spring season. sports teams make it to state The baseball team made it to level competitions this season. playoffs but also lost in the first The whole girls tennis team, round to Mountain Vista by one except for one singles, qualified run. for the state tennis tournament. Tyler Walton and Cyrus Pearo represented Girls soccer made it to the GJHS at state for boys swimming. first round playoffs but lost in Finally, Jordan Fellahuer and Jordan Tufly overtime 3-2. went to state for girls golf. Allie Grasso, Stuart Shrum,

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It was probably beating Fruita for the ﬁrst time in a while, and basically beating them pretty good. Tim Gastineau, baseball

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Getting the triple out against Fruita.

Sami Canetti, softball

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The ﬁrst goal against Fruita, everyone was all excited about it. It was the most memorable part. Tommy Kester, lacrosse

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Beating Fruita, of course. It was traumatizing last year when we lost in the last 14 seconds, so it was good to get revenge. Mitch Irwin, football

”

Compiled by Alex Proietti Photos by Kimberlyn Bennett and Maria LeFebre

New volleyball coach

New athletic director

Sportsmanship

Volleyball players are anxiously waiting to see who the new coach will be next year. GJHS has a few applicants for the job. Mr. Bilbo said he is looking for someone with coaching skills and would prefer someone in a teaching position, so the coach will be in the building.

The athletic director for next year has yet to be determined. Mr. Bilbo did interviews with a committee of coaches, advisers, students and parents in order to determine the new director. Mr. Bilbo said GJHS is trying to ﬁnd the perfect candidate.

Mr. Bilbo wants to thank all the athletic tigers that stepped up in the winter and spring seasons. He said sportsmanship was great in the spring and winter seasons, and positive attitudes were displayed in both. Thank you for showing your tiger pride and being good sports at all events.

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Sports

GJHS gymnasts compete at national level Fawn Puhler Alex Proietti

Photo courtesy of Tessa Kester

With a twist here, a jump there and a front double-twist dismount, two gymnasts from GJHS recently competed at the national level. Senior Cammi Muhr, a Level 10 gymnast, stuck a front double-twist dismount off the beam, a move that was named “The Muhr” after her. “(The Muhr) will be in the code of points, which is (a book that) has every single skill in gymnastics,” Muhr said. “I will be in there like a legend forever.” At the Region Three Championships on April 10, Muhr received a first-place medal on beam and seventh place all-around, qualifying her to compete in the national competition as a member of the Region Three team. “(Beam) just comes naturally to me,” Muhr said. Photo by Haleigh Jacobson At nationals on May 8, Muhr placed sixth on beam and 25th overall. Kester, left, and Muhr, right, chalk up at the gym before hitting the bars. Between all of the age groups, the Region Three team took first place. “All of my routines had someMuhr said. “(Nationals) was such a fun experience because thing different in them that I did Muhr plans to pursue gymI got to meet new people and see all the college not have in regionals beforehand,” nastics even after she leaves coaches, which is great motivation,” Muhr said. Kester said. Grand Junction. “I love looking back and saying to myself that I Kester took this change further “I am definitely going to do it made it to nationals because I am one of the seven than most gymnasts. in college. I am probably going best gymnasts in Region Three.” to San Jose in California because “(Before nationals) I freaked Also competing at nationals from GJHS was they offered me a full ride for out on my fly away and learned a sophomore Tessa Kester, a Level Nine gymnast. beam,” Muhr said. completely different dismount in “For kids at GJHS, making it to state is a really Kester also plans to pursue three weeks. It takes most gymnasts big accomplishment, and that is what it is like gogymnastics for as long as physimonths to learn a new dismount,” ing to nationals as a gymnast,” Kester said. “It is Kester said. cally possible. kind of like winning state. It was just an awesome Gymnastics is a way of life for “When you get older, your experience.” Muhr and Kester, and they devote body can not take the punishLike Muhr, Kester also excelled on beam. much of their time to growing and ment anymore. One day I will “Beam was actually my best event, which never improving. have to quit, and it will probably happens, so that was really cool,” Kester said. “If I had to quit gymnastics and be the saddest day of my life,” Kester switched up her routines after regionals had no choice, it would break me,” Kester said. for nationals.

Name: Cammi Muhr Best score: 9.875 Beam Favorite event: Beam because it does not really scare me, even though it seems like the scariest event.

Name: Tessa Kester Best score: 9.8 Beam Favorite event: I love every single event. They are all just a blast. If I had to pick it would be ﬂoor and bars as a tie.

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Sports

Times are changing

Alex Proietti hey say the only constant in life is change, and for the GJHS girls tennis team, it was a season of change. After losing four seniors last year and senior Alyssa Behrens to a knee injury, big shoes were left to fill. Junior Maddy Hayduk played No. 3 doubles her freshman year, No. 1 doubles her sophomore year and this year made the jump up to the top position of No. 1 singles. “(Singles) is a totally different game than doubles. You have to stay at the baseline rather than coming up to the net and putting shots away,” Hayduk said. “It takes a lot more mentally because you are out on the court on your own.” Being alone on the court was a new and unfamiliar feeling for Hayduk, and she had to find ways to span this new void. “I have to know that if I get down on myself, I have to snap out of it because I am out there on my own, and there is no one to help me up,” Hayduk said. Although her season ended after regionals, Hayduk learned many lessons. “The most important lesson (I learned) is that I am playing the best of the best, and I can

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not dwell on a loss because there are Arja and Holt enjoyed having each other as going to be plenty,” Hayduk said. “I partners. know that I can play with the top “(Nicky) always has my back, and she can people, but it is still hard hitting pick me up in times when I am like, ‘I cannot every shot and being consistent.” believe I missed that,’” Holt said. “She is really Also stepping up to a new posisupportive, and since she is at my same level, tion this year was the rookie No. 3 she is going through all of it with me. We can doubles team of sophomore Nicky work on our strengths and weaknesses as a Arja and freshman Emma Holt. team.” Arja and Holt were As well as having their partner both new to the team “If I get down to support them, they also enthis year and felt the joyed the team aspect of tennis. on myself, I have effects of being on a “I like that (we are a small to snap out of it varsity team. team) because you really get to “(Being on varsity) because I am out know the girls, and it makes it there on my own.” definitely pushes me more fun. It feels like a family to be better and try because everyone is so close and harder than if I was goofy,” Arja said. playing by myself. It takes a lot more While becoming part of the family was easy, effort and a lot more hard work,” filling the positions was a challenge, but they Holt said. were successful. Arja discovered the differences “I definitely tried to fill the shoes. It is hard between varsity and junior varsity. because there are some really good girls who “Varsity is more competitive. have played varsity better than I have, but it Since I am really competitive, it has been a great experience overall,” Arja said. helps that people want to win. It is Arja and Holt finished their season after not like, ‘Let’s just go out and hit for winning the regional tournament and competing at state. fun,’” Arja said.

Photo by Haleigh Jacobson

Arja, Hayduk and Holt ﬁll new varsity positions

Sports

Staying on track Kyleigh Larson

800-meter dash records

200-meter dash records

Photo by Haleigh Jacobson

For juniors Stephanie Ryken and It works the same way Dylana Gross it is not the for sprints, except sprintWorld: World: question of “why” run track. ers need flawless form Usain Bolt (Jamacia) Wilson Kipketer (Denmark) To them, there is no quesfrom the starting position 19.19 1:41.11 tion about it. all the way through the Ryken and Gross have finish line. Jarmilla Kratochvilora Florence Griffith-Joyner “If you don’t have been running com(Czech Republic) 1:53.28 (USA) 21.34 a good start, basically petitively since fourth grade, and both ran you just messed up that Colorado high school Colorado high school whole race,” Ryken said. sprints through state: state: Sprinters practice middle school. handoffs and starts While Ryken Jeremy Dodson (George James Hatch (Fairview) repetitively to improve continues to excel at sprinting, Gross decided to try Washington) 20.70 1:51.23 their form. running cross country her freshman year. Aspen Burke (Denver “My biggest problem After that she decided to switch to long distance Tara Mendoza (Eaglecrest) is that I over-think it. running for track, and she has stayed with it ever East) 23.36 2:07.53 since. It happens so fast and I GJHS: GJHS: just need to “I was built for distance. I haven’t “I was built for run (during really ever been that great of a sprinter, Dan Gonzales (GJHS in Zac Piper (GJHS in 1994) distance. I haven’t meets), but and long distance just clicked,” Gross 1999) 21.54 1:55.30 said. the harder really ever been Beth Morris (GJHS in Michelle Paredes (GJHS Even though she got hooked to long you practice, that great of a 1977) 25.5 in 1985) 2:18.05 distance from running cross country, the more it sprinter, and long she likes the atmosphere of competition will pay off in distance just during the track season. meets,” Ryken said. “I’m more serious about track Ryken’s offseason includes multiple indoor clicked.” Track coach Darrell Simonton also because it’s more like a competition. track meets in Denver. uses the interval training technique of Cross country is more laid back,” “(During) offseason it is important to con“Puke Mondays” for his track team. Gross said. tinue those kinds of (individual) meets for the During the season every Monday the track Gross seemed to transition easily to distance, experience,” Ryken said. but for most people switching from sprints to long team runs different lengths of sprints, and each For Gross, her offseason consists of crossweek the amount increases. distance is difficult. training like biking and swimming. However, in the middle of the season, what According to a study by Tyler D. Bushnell and Gross will also be attending a Team Prep Simonton calls “peaking” happens, and the Brigham Young University, “The development of USA long distance running camp which will amount of sprinting on Mondays will begin to economical (long) distance form is a fairly natural be taking up a month of her summer. decrease. process that occurs with the miles of training.” Both girls condition offseason in hopes to “This is when our times are supposed to start When running long distance, it is highly imporcontinue running track through college. getting faster,” Ryken said. tant to train daily to build up stamina. Ryken and Gross say they run track for the Even though running distance and sprints have adrenaline rush, and both plan to continue “We do a lot of interval training at practice like different training techniques, there are similar 12 200-meter sprints, or run the 800-meter at race running competitively through college. aspects. pace then run a 600, 500, 400, etc. getting faster “You know how people get their high from each time,” Gross said. Both sprinters and distance runners seek to insmoking weed? I get what’s called a runner’s Along with interval training, proper form is key crease strength and build muscle in the offseason, high. During (the race) I’m kind of hating to running track. and maintain that strength during the season. life, but after I feel like I accomplished some“The faster your arms go, the faster your legs will These two juniors do not stop just because thing,” Gross said. go, so form is really important,” Gross said. track season ends for the year.

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Have a GREAT summer, Tigers!!

Mike Schaack Bryan Wiman Thomas C. Volkmann

Sweet ride For Sale. 1995 Nissan PathďŹ nder 4WD. 140,000 miles. Runs Great. $2,000.00 Call 250-2330.

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Health

Field guide to hiking Top hiking trails around the valley Lounging by the pool may seem appealing at the peak of summer heat, but morning or evening hikes provide a healthy and fun alternative. The following sites are some of the Orange & Black staff’s favorites.

Madison Gurley

Rough “Bangs” Canyon Trail length: 17 miles in entirety; can turn back sooner Location: South of Grand Junction on BLM Bangs Canyon land Difﬁculty: Moderate Description: This trail is fairly long, but shorter hikes like Echo Canyon and the Mica Mines, can be accessed from this trail head.

Liberty Cap Trail length: 7 miles Location: Wildwood trail head off South Broadway Difﬁculty: Moderate Description: This trail starts from the ﬂoor of the valley and ascends to the rim of the Monument. A 3-mile trail called Corkscrew Trail, branches off this trail.

No Thoroughfare Canyon Trail length: 3 miles Location: Can be reached from Devil’s Kitchen trail head or from the top of the monument plateau Difficulty: Easy Description: This trail starts at the bottom of No Thoroughfare Canyon, near the east entrance. There is no official trail to the top of the canyon and, after a certain point, the trail becomes difficult and unmarked. There are several small waterfalls during the spring run-off.

Devil’s Kitchen Trail length: .75 miles Location: Less than a mile after the entrance to the Monument on the left-hand side Difﬁculty: Easy Description: This serves as a shorter hike with beautiful views of the canyon and the city. It is a great spot for a night hike.

Wedding (monument) Canyon

Graphic by Greg Coleman and Alex Tennant 28

Trail rail Length: Length 6.3 miles Location: Can be accessed from the Independence Monument trail head or from the Monument on Rim Rock drive just past the Coke Ovens overlook Difﬁculty: Moderate Description: Descends from the plateau if started from the Monument and passes Description Independence Monument. The Kissing Couple and the Coke Ovens are along the way. Orange&Black

Health

Eight must-haves for your outdoor adventure Alex Tennant Although it is commonly assumed that little equipment is required for hiking, there are several items that should be brought. To prevent anything from being left behind, it is a good idea to make a checklist. Here are eight items the hiking checklist should include:

Backpack

Sunscreen

Water

Although sunscreen does not provide 100 percent sun protection, it allows people to spend time outside without severely damaging their skin. Sunscreens with 30 SPF or higher are the most protective.

Bringing a small backpack can make carrying Staying hydrated is extremely important, even a few light items much easier. Keep the especially in the summer. Most studies load light. suggest that a person needs an average of eight 8-ounce glasses or 64 ounces of water a day.

Insect repellent

Snacks

Insect repellents are an essential part of spending time outdoors. They are needed to deter bugs like mosquitoes that carry diseases such as encephalitis, malaria and West Nile virus.

Snacks are necessary to keep one’s energy level up. Fresh fruits, vegetables, granola bars, trail mix and dried fruits are all lightweight and healthy snacks.

First aid kit

Camera

It is extremely important to bring a basic ﬁrst aid kit. Band-aids, allergenics, cotton balls, gauze pads and medical tape are all items that should be kept in a basic ﬁrst aid kit.

Although it may not be considered essential, a camera is a great item to bring on a hike to capture memories. One does not need a high tech camera. Disposable cameras are lightweight and easy to use.

Flashlight Bringing even a compact ﬂashlight may come in handy if a hike runs late or if one runs into a dark area. Source: UCLA

Photo by Alex Tennant

Orange&Black

Words of Wisdom

With 108 combined years of high school, the 27 seniors on The Orange & Black have

Orange&Black

Words of Wisdom

Orange&Black

Mesa County Valley School District 51 Grand Junction High School 2115 Grand Avenue Grand Junction, CO 81501

Claire Cooper Advanced Leadership Team is beginning the upcoming school year by planning their usual activities under new leadership. Throughout the year, ALT is responsible for activities such as a welcoming committee helping during freshman orientation, the freshman social, 80s dance, middle school conference and the Blackout dance. “Planning Blackout is a blast, and since it’s Mrs. Pugh’s ﬁrst year leading, it will be interesting to see how it goes,” junior Tyler Winder said. Next year, Alt will be led by new commissioner junior Hannah Kimmel with co-commissioners juniors Winder and Charlie Willet and sophomore Jenna Maneotis. Junior Haleigh Jacobson will be historian, sophomore Gabrielle Ziola will be secretary and junior Sean Foster will be treasurer... Read the rest of this story and more at GJHSnews.

Student Council plans new events for next year

Photos by Claire Cooper

Fresh Start

NON-PROFIT ORGANIZATION U.S. POSTAGE PAID PERMIT NO. 207 GRAND JUNCTION , COLORADO

Fawn Puhler As the seniors leave, the halls of GJHS seem vacant, and the apprehension of next year hovers over the students. Smiles spread across the faces of students at the thought of summer plans, but some students will be concentrating on planning events for the 2010-2011 school year. Among other groups involved in summer planning, Student Council will be oﬀering their time and eﬀorts to construct a new horizon for the next school year. These members are dedicated to improving student involvement, spirit and interaction in order to make the upcoming year better than the last. “I think that it’s important to keep the spirit up otherwise it’s just boring old school, and that’s just

not fun,” next year’s Head Girl Izzy Trinklein said. Head Boy Christian Rock, although he prefers to be referred to as “Head Man,” agrees. “When you keep your spirits low, you’re not going to have much of a bond between students,” Rock said. Student Council members focus on being a tight knit group to lead by example in bringing GJHS students closer together and projecting hope for school wide unity. “For the most part, we are really bonded. We are all really nice to each other, and we try to make as little conﬂict as possible,” Rock said. To keep a friendly environment between oﬃcers, there are activities like making gingerbread houses,

Next year’s head boy and girl Christian Rock and Izzy Trinklein are getting pumped for student involvement. bonﬁres and movie nights. Despite the incorporation of fun in Student Council, there is an initial responsibility for work ethic and determination that is instilled within each member... Read the rest of this story and more at GJHSnews.com

Marching forward Claire Cooper The GJHS Tiger Marching Band is looking forward to kicking oﬀ a new year with brand new leadership to guide the way. Next year’s drum majors are junior Lissie Bloom and sophomore Emmy Pipkin, with junior Carson Laudadio as assistant drum major. “I think the new leadership will help us blend together and have a great season,” sophomore Julie Kembel said. Section leaders for next year include Kembel along with... Read the rest of this story and more at GJHSnews.com

Future drum majors Emmy Pipkin, Carson Laudadio and Lissie Bloom are preparing for the next band season.

Check out more photos from this event at GJHSnews.com