April

Wednesday, April 24, 2013 Great gatsby hits theaters May 10th

Sports salary debate

court of appeals visits monarch

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The Howler Volume 14

A student publication of Monarch High School since 1998. 329 Campus Drive, Louisville, CO

Issue 8

Steubenville

She asked for it, Right?

Steubenville brings up controversy over rape culture in United States by Aleiya Evison

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ollowing the accounts of a rape in Steubenville, Ohio, a shockwave surrounding rape culture has surged through the United States. Two high school football players, aged 16 and 17, raped, assaulted, and inappropriately photographed one of their peers, parading her unconscious body to several parties throughout the night. Although the rape occurred last summer, photos documenting the crime surfaced on the internet, serving as sufficient evidence to convict two of her peers of rape. For the past month, the media, internet, and conversations across the country have been buzzing about the rape, and subsequently about the rape culture that has developed in the United States. It is no secret that sexual assault and rape

are not uncommon in the United States. According to the Rape, Abuse and Incest National Network, someone in this country is sexually assaulted every two minutes. Of those 207,754 victims per year, 80% are under the age of 30. What is more shocking is that experts and police estimate that the rapes and sexual assault cases that are reported are only a fraction of the sexual crimes occurring each year. In contrast to the conviction of the rapists in the Steubenville case, 97% of rapists in the United States never go to jail. In the rare event that a rapist is convicted, the sentencing is often minimized. The two rapists in the Steubenville case were sentenced in March with only three years combined. If the two had been adults, they would have faced first degree felony charges, but like many rape cases, the charges were reduced. One of the boys’

lawyers tried to argue that his client did not deserve to be found guilty because his “brain is not fully developed,” based on the fact that the average male brain is not fully developed until their twenties. In a society where rapists are often excused and even supported, it has become understandable that victims feel afraid to step forward when they have been assaulted. The victim in Steubenville has been consistently ostracized, and even received death threats for “ruining” her attackers’ lives, even though she did not report the crime herself. One student in Steubenville posted about the victim on Twitter, “You ripped my family apart, you made my cousin cry, so when I see you bitch it’s going to be a homicide” (dailymail.co.uk). Countless additional Twitter accounts and news reports blamed the victim for

Illustration by Aleiya Evison

inappropriate clothing and for being intoxicated at the time of the rape. Meanwhile, major news networks such as CNN spoke sympathetically of the rapists, suggesting that they didn’t deserve to be found guilty and lamenting about how sad it is that their futures have been jeopardized (huffingtonpost.com). It is as though the nation forgot who was raped. Numerous protests have stemmed from the Steubenville case. Horrified Americans are trying to address why American culture is prone to victim shaming and blaming, instead of support and justice. Steubenville has inspired Americans to address this question: Why is rape a part of our society? Coverage continues on page 8 and 9.

OPINIONS The Abuse in Media: Has it Gone too Far? by Will Petersen

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n the past decade, technology has changed Journalism in both good and bad ways. Media has created an efficient way for electronic reporters to get breaking news out to the world, but it has also given publications opportunities to publish false or partially incorrect information. On March 15th, hip hop/rap artist Lil Wayne reportedly was put in the Cedars Sinai hospital in Los Angeles, California due to multiple seizures, and was in a “coma” because of them. Many of his friends in the music industry, such as Snoop Dogg, were tweeting about Lil Wayne and asking others to give him support. Many had found out about Lil Wayne being in a “coma” from TMZ, which is now accused of publishing false or misleading information about this situation. According to Ben Westhoff, a contributor to the Music Blog on http://blogs.laweekly.com, TMZ’s “reports of Lil Wayne’s demise have been exaggerated.” This to me shows obvious abuse of journalism through social media and the internet. TMZ can stretch and twist the information however they like and make all of their readers believe what they publish, and they can simply delete an article from their website whenever they please. By doing this, more people will be drawn to their website because of juicy breaking news and this is a perfect display of the way that publications can go to extremes to gain publicity and followers. Another way that publications have been abusing their privileges is the way that they have been covering stories. I know many have heard about the rape case out of Steubenville, Ohio, and it was a terrible incident. The problem with the way the media was covering this issue is that I, and other writers such as Mallory Jean Tenore of the Poynter Institute ,have noticed that the publications and media sources covering this story have often placed the focus of their coverage on the rapists and how the victim was hurt, instead of who she is as an individual. “It is nonetheless striking how little we know about her” said Tenore. As a reporter, I know what is right and wrong, and I recognize that publications are pushing the limits as to what is right and wrong to report. The internet is good because it is a quick way of getting news out to people on a daily basis, however it can also be bad, and I definitely do not stand for this hasty and irresponsible reporting of news.

“Whoever controls the media, controls the mind” -Jim Morrison “If you don’t like the news, go out and make some of your own.” -Wes Nisker 2

Guest Cartoonist Terran Fox imagines what may become of these journistically irresponsible news outlets in the future ifunverified reporting continues. Cartoon Credit: Terran Fox

“All I know is just what I read in the papers, and that’s an alibi for my ignorance.” -Will Rogers

“Don’t hate the media; be the media.” -Jello Biafra

BND: Banks that MEDICAL MIRACLE: Effortlessly Shed serve the public Pounds with Flesh I Eating Bacteria by Malachi Dray

A satire about the addiction of weight loss by Jack Howard

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cientists at Lame University have made a breakthrough in weight loss technology. By modifying the genes of a previously deadly disease they have enabled people to drop pounds at an incredible rate. The bacteria originated in the jungles of an unknown African country of which the authorities refused to name. The disease killed by consuming vital organs, causing a slow and painful death. While trying to develop a vaccine to the bacteria, scientists separated a strain of the organism that will only consume fatty tissue. “We had been working around the clock for years to develop a vaccine for this vicious disease that had plagued the poor citizens of [censored] for so long. After years of research we had made little progress. However, after a trivial accident made by one of our interns, we quickly separated a strain of the bacteria that will only target body fat.” After this accidental innovation, the crack team of researchers consisting of the medical elite of the world quit their quest for a vaccine and promptly patented their altered strain and proceeded to sell it to a medical company. “It’s really great,” said Doris Ratzenberger, spokesperson for Enron Medical, the company who bought the patent and who is now marketing the bacteria to weight loss firms around the world. “All that is required is a simple injection to the area in which the fat is to be eliminated, and after it has consumed all the fat it can find, the bacteria simply dies off… our company’s revenue is expected to soar at unprecedented rates once our miracle cure is released.” Unfortunately, the procedure costs about $7,000, prompting willing clients to drop the remnants of their burger binges and

midlife crises. “When I heard about the bacteria, I immediately knew it was the answer to the weight problem that had plagued me for decades,” says Walter Wilson, test subject for the clinical trial of the experimental bacteria. “I read that the bacteria would be available to the general public by June but a select 1,000 overweight people would be subjected to a clinical trial of the experimental prototype. I decided to go whole hog and volunteer in the trial. So far it’s been great. Aside from a few menial side effects, barely worth mentioning like vomiting and spasms, I can’t complain. The weight just keeps coming off. Now all they need to do is separate a strand that will target excess skin.” The product’s release, expected to be June 15th, is predicted to have adverse effects on the fitness and health foods industry. It will enable grocery stores to stock their shelves exclusively with junk food and is expected to devastate any food distributors who do not abide by this philosophy. Enron Medical is offering to convert any and all willing gyms into dispensaries for the new product to avoid closure. However this will forever tie any participants to Enron Medical which will also receive 85% of their profits. “This is despicable!” says Neil Simmons, Pain Is Weakness Gym owner. “There oughta be further regulation in the medical industry if this kinda thing is goin’ happen. This country’s gonna be nothin’ but weaklings if this damn thing catches on. And there’s no way I’m givin’ in to Enron’s offer!” As the country prepares for the elimination of its obesity problem and the complete devastation of the once multi-billion dollar a year fitness industry, one thing remains clear: love it or hate it, Enron’s miracle bacteria is here to stay.

“I want to lose weight by eating nothing but moon pies, which have significantly less gravity than earthier foods such as fruits and vegetables.” -Jarod Kintz

n a glorious tide of fiery populist rage upon the endless prairies of the Dakotas, an exemplary idea and institution was conceived nearly a century ago when the Bank of North Dakota was created by fed-up farmers crusading for economic justice in 1919. Although the cultivators have since cooled down, the financial legacy they leave behind in their state is still a shining example for other states, as well as a good blueprint for a more progressive federal banking policy. Exploited by railroad bosses and eastern bankers, and struggling for survival against out-of-state competition, farmers banded together into the Nonpartisan League and took control of the state government in the 1916 and 1918 elections. The humble yet passionate reformers quickly set to work, enacting a publicly owned railroad, worker’s compensation, a state grain mill and elevator to assist farmers, and other progressive endeavors for the benefit of the people. While much of the League’s work was undone by the wrath of special interests when the business-backed Independent Voters Association retook the government, the will of the people lived on in the form of the Bank of North Dakota, the Dakotan populists’ greatest achievement. The Bank of North Dakota (BND) is far from your average bank. In fact, it is the only stateowned bank in the United States. Put another way, it is the only bank in the U.S. that is accountable to the general public, instead of profit-driven owners. As it was created to promote the well being and self-sufficiency of the common man instead of to turn a profit by taking advantage of impoverished farmers, the BND invests in the economic potential of citizens and entrepreneurs, by offering them low-interest loans. In 1967 the BND became the very first institution in the U.S. to provide federally insured student loans, and continues to do so today. By investing in people above profits, the bank lays strong foundations for a healthy economy which is still of value to North Dakotans today. Despite the strong element of public interest within the bank, it is still a profitable institution. In 2011, the bank recorded $70 million in earnings. By law, the State of North Dakota does all of its financial transactions though the BND, and so its profits go directly into public coffers. These funds are then used to fund education, infrastructure, and more within the state, while simultaneously being invested in private businesses which grow the economy. The result? North Dakotans enjoy the lowest unemployment rate in the nation, a slim 3.3%. Furthermore, the state is one of only five in the country with a budget surplus, which is currently approaching roughly $2 billion while most other states rack up massive debts. Of course, this prosperity can also in part be attributed to the export-driven economy of the state, but the agricultural and energy exports are direct beneficiaries of the BND’s supportive hand. It is clear that a non-predatory public bank that encourages economic growth has been an invaluable advantage to the state on the plains. There remains little doubt that similar public institutions would be thoroughly beneficial to other states in the Union at this time, including Colorado, which currently holds a half-billion dollar deficit. In addition to the state level, a public bank would be incredibly effective at the federal level, replacing the questionably private Federal Reserve, and putting the United States on par with several European countries and Argentina, which have long-since adopted a public-bank system. In order to smash public deficits, responsibly invest in economic development, and put the control of capital back in the hands of the citizens of the United States, it is high time we take a cue from those agrarian revolutionaries who fought for fiscal justice so long ago.

The Differences Between Public, Profit, and Credit Union Banking For Profit Bank: A financial establishment that invests money deposited by customers, pays it out when required, makes loans at interest, and exchanges currency.

Credit Union: A nonprofit financial cooperative offering deposit accounts, low-interest loans, etc.

Public Sector Bank: A public bank is a banking company owned by the State or public actors are the owners. This is a company under state control, run to be accountable for the general public

Other Facts

North Dakota has a 3.3% unemployment rate, the lowest in the nation.

Beginning in 1945 BND began transferring profits to the general government fund. Since then BND has returned over $555million to the general fund.

Public Banking helped China, India, and Brazil weather the world fiscal crises in 2008

Fact Credit: http://banknd.nd.gov/

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Head Girl Responds Carnage: to criticism of pep Why it happens and assemblies how to end it Last month Howler writer Jack Howard questioned the value of pep assemblies; Student Council leader talks back by Sama Naqeeb

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ear Jack,

I read your article “Pep Assemblies and the Dangers of Indoctrination” in last month’s Howler and I regret to say that I do not agree with your opinion and I consider it to be very one-sided. You start off by claiming that pep assemblies are meant to instill students with a sense of “unconditional pride towards our school”. That is definitely not the only thing they are meant for, but what is wrong with unconditional school pride? You claim that this clouds a student’s judgment of their school and prevents them from seeing Monarch’s faults and from wanting to improve it and its reputation. Being proud of one’s school does not make one overlook their school’s faults; one can have pride in something but still want to change or improve it. Personally, when I was rooting for the US during this past year’s Olympics, I was very proud of the United States for competing and winning numerous medals but that does not mean that I chose to overlook the many faults within the US’s with government and economy because of my pride. It meant that I was willing to be a proud US citizen despite these issues, just like how many Monarch students are proud Coyotes despite Monarch’s shortcomings. As far as I know, Monarch’s reputation as an academic institution shows no signs of stagnation. The first thing you see when you visit Monarch’s website is a gold circle on the homepage that names Monarch as one of America’s Best High Schools. Also, every year, numerous Monarch High School students continue on to Top Ten Universities. Just this year, Monarch students have been admitted to Harvard, Duke, Brown, Vanderbilt, and Stanford and the majority of these students attend pep assemblies, and show pride in their school. You want Monarch students to be able to form their own multi-faceted opinions about our school but something you choose to overlook is the fact that everyone already has their own opinions of Monarch, and ideas of how to improve it. Every student at Monarch is oftentimes wrapped up in their own world--dealing with their own extracurricular activities, attending their own classes, hanging out with their own friends, and living in their own bubble--forming their separate opinions of Monarch. Pep assemblies are the only time that every student at Monarch can leave their bubble, come together, and share forty-five minutes to make a memory and actually feel united, if not as a school, then as a class. As a united student body, we can change Monarch for the better as a whole, instead of being a disorganized school of students all trying to improve things single-handedly. Also, if you feel united with and proud of your fellow coyotes, you will be more likely to like them or at least, get along with them; making school less tedious, more social, and maybe even fun. Pep assemblies are not only intended as a way to unite the student body but to show Monarch the different activities that can be done during the season, including sports and different clubs. You’re correct in saying that Monarch’s pep rallies ( held 4 after seventh period; optional) are usually meant to applaud different

Senior John Pham speaking at a school assembly

sports teams for their accomplishments but just because many students at Monarch, including myself, have not physically achieved anything does not mean that we cannot be proud of those to have, as we do in fact attend the same school. Just like the Olympics I mentioned before, many people will never be Olympic athletes, but they can still be proud to share nothing more than a country, just like how Monarch’s athletes and the rest of the student body share nothing more than a school. And, as a country, are we not proud of our many veterans and soldiers out defending this country, even though majority of Americans have not and will never serve in the armed forces? And the reason athletes are “paraded around like idols” as you call it, is because that is how we celebrate their accomplishments, in front of the students who supported them and cheered them on throughout their season. On the other side of the spectrum, Monarch hosts private award ceremonies for students who receive Academic Letters, Merit Awards, and Art Awards and students who make it to All-State for music, have a district-wide reception for their achievements. In regards to the actual pep assemblies, Student Council tries very hard to make pep assemblies fun for everyone. We understand that a lot of students don’t find pep assemblies fun. We have been trying to change that since my freshman year and I am sure Student Council will continue to work towards improving pep assemblies until, all students enjoy them. You are correct in pointing out that seniors oftentimes win games at pep assemblies, and there are reasons for that. It is because it is rigged for the seniors to win. It is a sad, and I admit, unfair tradition within pep assemblies that the seniors are “meant” to win. It is possible for other grades to win, but unlikely. We have tried to change it before and faced backlash; it is a difficult thing to do. Pep assemblies are not a nonsensical waste of time, as you put it. It not only unites the student body, but acts a fun event to help celebrate the goings-on at Monarch. If you do not want to join your class, and majority of the school to yes, “have school spirit” and to be a part of a community of students with their own opinions much larger than just one person, you are welcome to. All I am saying is that you would be missing out on a lot more than you think you are. Thank you for your time.

by Dalton Valette

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ast week, the United States was struck a major blow on Patriots Day when two bombs erupted at the Boston Marathon. The explosions killed three and wounded at least 180. A massive man hunt began throughout the Boston area. Days later, one suspect is dead, and the other left wounded and in critical but stable condition. They are Tamerlan and Dzhokhar Tsarnaev, aged 26 and 19. Sadly, the Boston Marathon bombing has just become another senseless act of violence in the years since 9-11. Today, there have been so many acts of destruction on American soil, they start to blend together. Virginia Tech, Aurora, Newtown, the assassination attempt against Gabrielle Giffords, the attempted bombing in Times Square, the Underwear Bomber, and now Boston can be added to the long and horrifyingly growing list of attacks or attempted attacks. Currently every one’s eyes are on Boston as they grieve the lost and pray for the safety of loved ones. This is a terrible act of mayhem and carnage, but how long will it remain in people’s minds? In our culture, in our society, we seem to have almost become desensitized by violence. It seems that nearly every other week someone pulls a gun or makes an explosive to try and kill innocent Americans. We cry and stay glued to our televisions to watch the horror unfold, but when the smoke has cleared and you find that everyone you know and love is safe, our lives continue until the next attack happens. And repeat. This is the sad but painful truth. These near terrorist like attacks have become, dare I say, common in American culture. People demand change, people demand higher safety precautions on buses and planes and schools. And the most noticeable advancements made to protect Americans are the barring of shampoo and nail clippers on planes and making us take our shoes off through airport security. As the twelve year anniversary of 9-11 approaches, you can’t help but wonder, why? Why do these people want to attack and hurt people they have never met before? It is because fame plays such a key component. Has anyone else noticed how when an attacks happens, all eyes focus on the killer, the bringer of destruction? Everyone hones in on who to blame, who is the suspect, where is the suspect, what is their condition. The media barely covers all those who have lost their lives or

have been wounded in an attack. Sure at the end of the hour long show, there’s a five minute clip of a recovery heartwarming story of resilience, but the rest of the fifty five minutes is devoted to the assailant. And even after the assailant is caught, we want to know all about them. Do they have ties to Al-Qaeda? Where did they grow up? Did they play any sports in high school? What food did they like? Was he/ she a Coke or Pepsi fan? Thousands of questions abound as a single face is plastered everywhere, a single, blank face that hides the thoughts of a killer. Less coverage is spent on the loss or hurt. We are a blood-craving society and that needs to change-not later but now. We need comprehensive reform in order to create a safer environment for us and the ones we hold dear in our hearts. So now the why turns into a how? How can these attacks lessen? It’s simple, with reform and laws. People argue, “Well even if gun laws are enacted, people who want machine guns or explosives enough can go out and find some.” Yes, but as The Daily Show pointed out, “People who steal guns do not submit to our rules about stealing either!” It is a fact that there will always be violence, but we can make it less prevalent. We need to take action. We need leadership that is willing to stand up and say safety comes first. Isn’t it better to take the initiative to have sweeping reforms to ensure the safety of many over the narrow-mindedness of a few? Leadership to take action and submit legislation to decrease gun magazine sizes, permit background checks when purchasing firearms, and to bar certain weapons civilians don’t need. This is not an attack on the second amendment; this is an appeal for common ground on safety. We need to openly discuss the nature of violence and educate ourselves about firearm dangers. The glamour of violence must end. This will be a laborious process, but Americans can rid themselves of their violent habits. Take smoking. In the 1960’s, everyone smoked cigarettes. But with more knowledge about the dangers of smoking, especially targeted at the youth, smoking has become so much less ingrained in our culture. We need to accomplish the same thing with violence as we did with smoking. It will be difficult, it will be long, but we can prevent another Boston, or Newtown, or Aurora with education and action to lessen the carnage.

Giving Back, Grain by Grain NHS members repair sand volleyball courts at Monarch

NHS students clean the sand volleyball court over spring break of 2013. (Photo credit: Joy Wineman)

by Katie Ciaglo

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hile some students tanned on the beaches in California or hit the ski slopes of Colorado over spring break, members of Monarch’s National Honor Society dedicated their time to moving and leveling 150 tons of sand in order to give the school’s outdoor volleyball courts a much needed makeover. The sand volleyball courts, located outside of the rear cafeteria doors, have been in a poor, unplayable state for many years, so NHS decided they would take it upon themselves to restore the courts. “Every year NHS usually does a project to give back to the school somehow,” said NHS president Danny Wright. “We tried to think of projects since the beginning of the year and then Caroline Bartlett [NHS vice-president] came up with this idea last semester.”

The 2013 NHS class wanted to make sure they gave something to the school that the Monarch students would really enjoy and benefit from. “Last year NHS bought a flashing light message board and that was basically it,” said Wright. “We didn’t want to do something where we just bought something with our funds; we wanted to give back with community service as well.” Though the idea seemed obvious, putting plans into motion to renovate the courts was not so easy. The NHS officers had to work closely with Monarch administration and employees at BVSD to make sure the project was completed in the correct way. “A lot of the work involved coordinating with the district maintenance, because they have all the equipment and know how to do projects like this. We worked with Mr. Moroye, who helped us get in contact with Mr. Martinez

who is the head of district maintenance. So he came out one afternoon and evaluated what we needed to do with the courts to fix them and he basically said that we needed to tear up all the sand, truck it out and bring in new sand. Then after that it was basically just setting a schedule and then [Martinez] took care of his part and we brought in the volunteers,” explained Wright. The employees from the district removed all the old sand, laid down a weed barrier and carted in 150 tons of new sand. Then the NHS members leveled out the sand across all the courts to create an even playing surface. “It felt really great to give back to the school community,” said Darlene Wen, one of the NHS members who helped re-surface the courts over break. For Wen, who is also co-president of Key Club, this project was something she was very excited about completing. “Key Club has been wanting to do it for awhile,” she stated, “but we just don’t have the ability to, and so it’s a wonderful thing that NHS could achieve this.” Now that the courts are completely redone, they are available for use by all Monarch students. “I think it’s a great way to get the Monarch community involved and active,” said junior Anna Hogan. As the school year winds down and summer weather begins to shine over Monarch, NHS hopes to see students putting the courts to good use during lunch, off periods, gym classes, or during other NHS sponsored events. “We want to have a volleyball tournament at the end of the year barbecue,” said Wright. “We’re hoping that if we get a lot of teams to enter we can turn it into a fundraiser. It took some financial commitment to purchase the new sand and nets and so we want to be able to give the next incoming NHS class the ability to do projects like this in future years with more funds.”

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Ski and Snowboard 2012-2013 season wrap up by Bridget Anthony

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s Colorado weather brings never ending inches of snow throughout April, the ski and snowboard slopes are undoubtedly regretting ever closing the mountain for the season. Breckenridge and Vail are regretting that decision so much that they have decided to reopen this weekend to attract some die hard skiers and snowboarders for one last weekend of runs. It was, however, another season of ups and downs to be written down in the books. As of January 31st, Breckenridge had broken the 100 inch mark with a heaping 111 inches of snow, but after this recent such a surge of snow, Breckenridge is one of the few mountains that is still up and running. As a matter of fact, they still have 27 of 31 lifts still open. The mountain has gotten 21 inches of snow in the last week alone. Arapahoe Basin still has all lifts open while it is still late in the game. All 960 acres are waiting to be tread across by skiers and snowboarders galore. The mountain has received eight inches of snow in the last three days are is hoping for more. Coming up at A-Basin this Sunday, April 28th is what they call a “Beach Day”. It is the last day to ski the mountain and everyone tailgates and grills food for a hang out day at the base of the mountain. Vail takes the cake with a grand total of 47 inches in the last week alone, justifying their decision to reopen some lifts on the mountain. The extra days the mountain granted were Friday, April 19th through Sunday, April 21st for limited operations because of, according to vail.com, “great conditions.” They reached a season total of 330 inches this season and skiers and snowboarders could not be happier that they decided to reopen for a few final runs of the season. Winter Park is also now closed down for the winter but have already released that they will reopen on November 12th of 2013 and close on April 20th of 2014 next season. According to winterparkresort.com, the mountain averages about 329 inches of snow each year, attracting many skiers and snowboarders daily. Keystone Resort is now closed for the winter which was seemingly a good decision due to next to no snowfall over the last few days. They do predict six inches for April 23rd, however that is not nearly enough to consider reopening. Skiers and snowboarders went through both frustrating and incredible times this winter. Even though there were days of next to no snow and the mountains were covered in ice, the season finished strong and the skiers and snowboarders stuck with it until the end and were able to end it on a 5 high note.

Real Court Cases teach students Civil about Judicial Process Unions Bill Passed in Colorado least amount of attention. In fact, hardly anyone knows how this system even works. There are no television programs based upon appeals cases, no celebrity judges on the panel, and little to no similarities to the traditional trial courts so well known to the population. Each case, argued for a total of only 30 minutes, is by far the underdog of the judicial system today. But through community outreach programs, such as “Courts in the Community”, the appellate process is starting to gain publicity in Colorado, starting at the high school level. On April 9th, Monarch hosted the appellate courts, featuring two real appeals cases, one civil and one criminal. In these cases, lawyers from around the state argued their case against a panel of three Laywers answer a question from a curious student in the audience during a quesjudges. This outreach protion and answer period on Tuesday, April 9th, 2013. (Photo credit: Conner Lund) gram was brought to Monarch and pioneered by Social Studies teacher Andrew Buhse, by Conner Lund as well as Jon Sarche, head of the program “Courts in the Community.” This program was he Appellate process is one of the most designed to get kids more involved with the unique judicial processes in America appeals court system, by having real cases arand yet it is also the one that gets the gued in high schools around Colorado. “For

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years we have gone out to high schools to have arguments, and hopefully it’s an educating experience,” said one of the three appellate judges, Dennis Graham. “[This program] shows a part of the justice system that you normally don’t get to see,” said Sarche. In fact, the appeals courts are drastically different from standard trial cases. “[Lawyers] have a defined time to argue their case. Also, there are no witnesses, and it just is what it is, and the lawyers just have to work with the facts they are given,” continued Graham. “And occasionally [we may] inspire students to do something they normally wouldn’t think of doing as a career.” Given only 15 minutes to argue their side of the case, lawyers must be prepared to think on their feet, and squeeze every fact in that they need into the allotted time. During their 15 minutes, the judges are allowed to interject to ask any clarifying questions if needed. After the cases, the judges then write an opinion about their decision, so the final verdict can take up to a couple of months. Through this program, students are able to gain more knowledge about America’s judicial process. Touring throughout Colorado, these appellate courts are considered a true benefit to the community by providing a learning experience dealing with real court cases. “It was really interesting seeing these real cases being argued,” said junior Nik Lavrisha. “These cases showed me a different aspect of the judicial system that I didn’t really know much about.”

ups and downs of April by Joy Wineman Icons by Natalie Forman As usual, April began with a large dose of tomfoolery. April Fool’s Day, historically observed on the first day of April, did not disappoint. Toilets were plastic-wrapped, “gullible” was written on ceilings, and sheets were shorted. The origins of this holiday are as unorthodox as its practices. One theory dates back to the Middle Ages. In that time in France, New Years was celebrated for a week beginning on March 25th and ending on April Fools Day, which was then recognized by those who celebrated New Years on January first in order to make fun of those who did not. As is evident in modern times, France seems to have been bullied into starting the year in January with the rest of us. Hopefully, child abuse was down this month as April is National Child Abuse Prevention month. It is described by childwelfare.gov as “a time to recognize that we each can play a part in promoting the social and emotional well-being of children and families in communities.” Child Help, a foundation striving to prevent and treat child abuse, estimates that the number of child deaths caused by abuse or neglect has risen from 3.13 in 1989 to five or more in 2010. This same sources indicates that neglect actually accounts for almost 80% of these deaths, versus 10% from physical abuse. ‘April showers bring May flowers’ is a widely recognized adage of spring. Precipitation is pouring this month, more so than in any of the other 11. According to weather.com, Denver receives on average 2.2” of rainfall each April. However, Colorado is notorious for experiencing unexpected and uncharacteristic spring weather. Stay tuned next month to find out if these showers truly do yield flowers in May, or if the saying is just another nursery lie told to children in an attempt to stop their questioning.

Introduced this April, the President’s proposed budget for the 2014 Fiscal Year contains tax breaks for some. According to NBC, college students, those not saving for retirement, and investors in low income neighborhoods can expect their taxes to go down next year. That is, however, assuming the House and the Senate can agree on the new budget, rather than using it as an excuse to argue endlessly as has historically been done. If last year is any indication of this year, America may be headed off another fiscal cliff. Like lemmings, it seems we may never learn our lesson. Stress was up as well this April as tax season came and went. It’s almost funny how people are aware of the April 15th deadline for many months in advance, yet always manage to put it off until the last minute, thus putting themselves under a lot of pressure. No wonder all the seniors ditched; they had taxes to fill out, and we all know seniors don’t do anything until the day it’s actually due.

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Silent nights are predicted to go down this month. The cicada bug, which spends 17 years dormant underground before emerging for a brief period to mate and then die, is due for a visit. The East Coast should be overtaken by these hissing, chirping, flying, passers through anytime between late April and early May. One New York-based radiolab is even referring to this emergence as “Swarmageddon”. The group of cicadas gracing us with their presence this year is referred to as Brood II, which explains why #BroodII is now being tweeted more than ever. Let the Cicada Mania commence!

Gay and Lesbian Relationships Now Legally Recognized by Anna Blanco

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he Civil Unions bill was signed by Governor John Hickenlooper at the History Colorado Center on March 21st . This is a big step for Colorado. In 2006 voters banned same-sex marriage by voting that marriage could only be between a man and a woman. On May 1st at midnight, gay and lesbian couples may go to a courthouse and be issued a civil union here in Colorado. A civil union is a union of a same-sex couple that is legally recognized with some of the same rights given by marriage. Civil Unions will give gay and lesbian couples a portion of marriage rights, but not all of them. For example, partners with children will be able to both legally adopt the children. As it stands right now, one partner is the adopted parent, and the other is a guardian. Also, both partners cannot currently be covered under the same insurance. This bill will help with this issue by allowing both people in the relationship to be covered under the same insurance. In case of a health problem, in which one partner is hospitalized, the other will be able to visit them. Prior to this bill, a partner would not be considered family, and would not be admitted. Louisville residents and partners Dru Hofsteen and Mary K Smith plan to obtain a civil union. Not only will this make things easier for their family, which includes two children, but it will also benefit their relationship. “It will allow both of us adopt our kids. Right now, one person is the adopted mother, and the other one is the guardian,” explained Hofsteen. “We want our family to be treated the same way other families are treated,” added Smith. Maureen Garelick is another Colorado resident who has a same-sex partner. She and her partner are considering getting married in another state, as it would be recognized here in Colorado, just as a civil union. “I think the government should only deal with civil things, and the church should worry about people connecting with each other,” Garelick explained. She is happy that civil unions have been passed here, as it will give her a chance to say “ Symbolically, I have a connection with this person.” Garelick hopes that policies on the federal level will change to acknowledge marriage for gay couples, but is happy to see more rights appearing for gays and lesbians. Civil unions do not currently provide same-sex couples with rights given to married different-sex couples under federal law.This includes social security survivors, spousal benefits, federal spousal employment benefits, the right to file joint federal tax returns, the federal exemption from inheritance tax, and many other rights given to heterosexual couples. Many have been calling this bill a stepping stone for Colorado, and are hoping that it will lead to same-sex marriage in the future.

Monarch Students Out on the High Seas Marine Biology class sets sail in Southern California by Natalie Forman

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ften the best class learning happens during hands on experiments and real life experiences. This may be easy for chemistry students who can set chemicals on fire and theater students who can visit local theater productions, but for the Marine Biology class it is hard to come by real life experiences when in Colorado. Luckily for those in the Marine Biology class, biology teacher Mr. Thomas brings a group of around thirty students on an annual trip to Catalina, California to journey out onto the high seas. Students board a plane the week after spring break, ready to spend the next week on a boat. The company, Guided Discoveries, offers two, three, five and seven day trips aboard the SSV Tole Mour. This boat is the largest sailing school vessel on the West Coast. Activities range from educational lessons to frequent swimming sessions and even learning to sail the boat. Emily Robertson, a senior and founding member of Teens for Oceans, went on the trip last year. “I was in my Marine Biology class with Mr. Thomas and he told us about it and it sounded really awesome. My brother had also gone on the trip a few years before,” said Robertson. The students participated in an abundance of fun activities incorporated with

Marine Biology. “We got to swim at night with bioluminescence,” said Robertson. “Bioluminescence is these tiny microscopic things in the water that light up when they sense movement.” “I’ve never really been interested in [Marine Biology] as a career but I’ve always been interested in it as a hobby,” said Robertson. While she is not planning on pursuing Marine Biology in college, her interest is maintained through her involvement in Teens for Oceans. “There were at least four or five of us who went on the Marine Biology trip that were the founding members of Teens for Oceans so I think it had a very big influence on us and it inspired us to take some action.” Senior Jordyn Floming was able to go on the trip this year. “I was in Marine Biology, and me and my really good friend just decided that we had heard so many things about it and thought it sounded like fun.” In just five days the Monarch students were exposed to an abundance of new experiences. “We got to go snorkeling a lot, and go swimming with sea lions one time which was awesome. We had to physically sail the boat ourselves so we had to learn how to haul the lines… Sometimes we just did science stuff and we looked at kelp and other organisms under microscopes.” After coming back from the trip, the students were able to easily apply what they saw

on the boat to their learning in class. “I thought that the information that we were learning was more applicable. When Mr. Thomas was teaching about something he could relate it to something we saw on the trip,” said Robertson. Floming has also noticed a difference in her Marine Monarch students goof around on deck of the SSV Tole Mour during their trip this April. (Photo credit: Biology class. Reece LeBlanc) “It almost feels the trip and is quick to recommend it to fellow like the class is students. “I would encourage anyone that has closer. I talk to more kids in my class now.” the opportunity to go on the trip to absolutely Even now back in Colorado, Floming redo it. I was nervous to go on the trip because I members the fun times on the boat. “It was cold, but other than that I had no complaints get seasick, but it was totally worth it. I would totally recommend it to anyone.” and it was a lot of fun”. Robertson had nothing bad to say about

Getting involved in the community by Katie Berohn

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ummer is right around the corner, which means plentiful sunshine, staying up late, and, you guessed it: the itch to volunteer and help better your community. Summer is an amazing time to start getting involved since students have so much free time! Luckily, there are

endless volunteer opportunities available this summer. If you’re having trouble deciding which one you want to take advantage of, take this quiz to see which volunteer opportunity will suit your personality.

Chautauqua: Each volunteer at Chautauqua works at least four concert events that go from 6:30 to 11:00 pm. If you love being outdoors and are okay with standing for a long period of time, this is the volunteer opportunity for you! Each volunteer is required to complete 16 hours of training before volunteering. Apply to volunteer at http://www.chautauqua.com/volunteer.html

Louisville Reading Buddies: If you like helping out kids, volunteer to be a Big Buddy at the Louisville Library! You’ll be able to help young kids learn to read and hang out with them. For more information, contact louisvillereadingbuddies@gmail.com

VOLoCITY: If you are an underclassmen, VOLoCITY is a great opportunity for you. VOLoCITY helps you get volunteer experience and learn about different nonprofit organizations to raise money for. VOLoCITY is a good way to get you started on a life of volunteer work. Register at the Louisville Rec Center.

Balfour: If you love making people’s days and spending time with senior citizens, look into

volunteering at Balfour. Volunteers can do a variety of different things, like being presenters, arts and crafts assistants, pet visitors, and outings assistants. If you are interested in being a part of this rewarding opportunity, contact 303-926-3853.

Sister Carmen: Help those in need by volunteering at Sister Carmen! Sister Carmen offers bountiful and flexible volunteer opportunities for everyone! You can volunteer at one of their soup kitchens or thrift stores, or help in projects, community outreach, office work, or garden work. Contact 303-665-4342 ext. #142 for information on volunteer orientation. 7

Rape: A Political Minefield by Dalton Valette

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ntil recently, it seems that many comments involving sexual assault, specifically rape, went unnoticed by the media. Now, rape is another minefield that politicians must tiptoe around while trying to avoid crushing as many toes as possible. Last year, the minefield seemed to have all but detonated time and time again as men, and a few women, used the term rape in downright offensive comments. Politicians have always had a hard time calculating their words and there are frequent gaffes, most of which are harmless and are out of the public’s eye after a day or two. But for politicians, there is still one area that is a political catastrophe, and that is anything involving rape. Last year was a major year for such blunders, and it showed how people in American society view rape fairly nonchalantly. People, especially those in public office, can be ignorant and insensitive about the topic. Most notable of last year’s many political slip ups was from Representative Todd Akin. A Republican from Missouri, Akin was addressing the debate on abortion and trying to support his stance that abortion should be illegal even in cases of rape and incest. “If it’s a legitimate rape, the female body has ways to try to shut that whole thing down,” Akin said on August 19th, 2012.

Akin’s comments suggesting a difference between rape and ‘legitimate rape’ were slammed all across the nation, and Akin was disowned and condemned by Democrats and Republicans alike. What’s worse was when the American public learned that he was a member of the House Science Committee. The members on the House Science Committee are supposed to be knowledgeable about at least the basic principles of science, and having a member of that committee claim there is a difference between rape and ‘legitimate rape’ made the implications of his comments much more shocking. A few months after the now infamous ‘legitimate rape’ comment (Akin lost his seat in the House that election), another politician stumbled into the sensitive topic of rape. Republican Richard Mourdock from Indiana was running for Senate after serving as a representative for two terms. During a debate on October 23rd addressing abortion, Mourdock stated, “I believe that life begins at conception. I just struggled with it myself for a long time but I came to realize life is that gift from God that I think even if life begins in that horrible situation of rape, that it is something that God intended to happen.” Several Republicans lambasted him for his comments, similar to those by Akin, and pleaded with him to issue an apology. He nev-

er released a formal apology, yet a short week after the remark, he was hailed and praised by prominent Indiana Republicans at a semi-annual dinner. The insensitivity these Indiana Republicans displayed after knowing what Mourdock said was frankly demeaning to victims of sexual assault. Mourdock eventually lost his election. In the past few years, numerous instances of careless and insensitive comments involving sexual assault have been let loose from the lips of politicians of both sides. Today, many people make jokes about sexual assault and don’t filter their thoughts about such a sensitive issue. Politicians are under intense scrutiny as cameras follow their every move and broadcast everything that parts from their mouths. Being sexually assaulted is an extremely traumatic experience. The after-effects of an instance of rape, such as an unplanned pregnancy, can be debated until one’s face is blue, but remember when bringing up rape, look at Akin and Murdock’s careers after their remarks. Maybe it would be best to let that minefield rest.

America’s Rape Culture: How did we get here? by Joy Wineman

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shley Raleigh-Cohn, of MESA (Moving to End Sexual Assault) has worked extensively with survivors of sexual assault in the MESA program. MESA is the only sexual assault crisis center in Boulder and Broomfield counties. They run an English and Spanish hotline as well as provide many client services to survivors. Raleigh-Cohn identifies three main causes of rape culture: the objectification of women, victim blaming, and the trivialization of rape.

objectification of women, Raleigh-Cohn explained, “has The

U.S. Rep. Todd Akin (R-MO) leaves a news conference in Chesterfield, Missouri, after he announced his plans to stay in the race for the U.S. Senate, Friday, August, 24, 2012.(Robert Cohen/St. Louis Post-Dispatch/MCT)

Monarch men recognize need for change by Arika Rooney

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rom the Steubenville assault, to the suicide of a young rape survivor in Canada, to the gang-rape in India, the issue of sexual assault has flooded into the mainstream media. This has caused many people, including Monarch students, to take a step back and think about the implications of this crime and how it is being portrayed in today’s society. “All the coverage on rape in the media is starting to bring the problem to light,” said sophomore Tyger Roch. “The first step is to give the problem of rape more attention. It’s bad the way we don’t really address rape.” As this topic receives more and more media coverage, it has become apparent that not only is this problem widespread, but can happen anywhere and to anyone. As Zerlina

Maxwell wrote in Ebony magazine, “The young men in Steubenville aren’t monsters. They did something monstrous and criminal, but perhaps we should begin to stop repeating the notions that ‘criminals’ are the ones raping one in five women. No, it’s our husbands, boyfriends, acquaintances, relatives and friends, and they rape because they are not taught to see women as full autonomous human beings.” In today’s society, women’s bodies are used to sell everything from beer to BMWs. We live in a culture where women are treated as objects, whether it’s through advertisement, marriage, extensive cosmetic surgery, or even prostitution. From a very early age women learn that much of their value comes from how they look, and when a person is dehumanized in this way, it can lead to sexual violence. This brings up the issue that it seems to

17.6% of women and 3% of men have been the victim of an attempted or completed rape in their lifetime

have become a woman’s burden to avoid rape, rather than a man’s responsibility to not rape. Women are commonly told not to walk alone at night, to watch their drinks at parties and not to wear revealing clothing, as if their behavior in some way contributes to them being raped. University of Colorado updated an online statement in February about things to do to keep from being attacked. Number six on the list was to “Tell your attacker that you have a disease or are menstruating.” We teach kids from an early age to not bully, and that bullying isn’t right, yet rather than teaching the same lessons about rape, we teach young girls and boys only about how to avoid it. Senior Joe Hayford acknowledged, “We focus rape on women, instead of on the person raping. It’s odd, in a way, that they teach people not to get raped. It’s like telling people to not get murdered instead of how not to kill.”

Every two minutes, someone in the U.S. is sexually assaulted

Society sends women the message that men want them to be sexually experienced, easy and available, yet at the same time are to blame when they are sexually harassed or taken advantage of. With this mindset and the fascination with power in some people’s minds, anything short of sex is considered a failure. “Society has expected males to be more dominant of the genders. Since the hunter-gatherer era, we’re somewhat expected to be more aggressive and sexually driven,” said junior Sawyer Schumaker. Does this mean society expects men to take advantage of women? “Taking advantage of a girl is wrong...What it comes down to is respecting boundaries,” said junior Parker Sitton. “Society thinks it’s cool if a guy gets with a bunch of girls. The guy’s buddies might be harassing him because of their expectations that it’s cool to have sex if you’re guy. They’d kin-

95% of rapes that occur in college are never reported to authorities

da tease you if you haven’t, even though most high school guys haven’t had sex, they want tell their friends [they had sex] to seem cool, to show how easy it is [for them] even if it’s a lie.” Though it has recently become clear that there are many misunderstandings surrounding sexual assault, Roch sees a brighter future where society is much more conscious about the complexities and fragility of the issue. “The way we face rape as a crime is going to change in a positive way for the victims,” he said. “People are going to get more knowledgeable and the problem is going to be brought to light. People are going to stop joking about rape. There’s going to be more of a focus on how it affects people and why it occurs. Before we only saw rape as another statistic; now we’re going to see people’s stories.”

to do with issues of masculinity and healthy masculinity and really not raising our men in a way that they are expected to treat women well.” Her definition of objectifying women is viewing women as objects for use and enjoyment rather than as actual people with rights and emotions. She continued to describe how women have increasingly become objectified. “In some ways there have been movements of

women’s sexualization

that have been done by women, so for example Ke$ha, who makes this argument that by acting like a man she is re-claiming some sort of femininity, but that also lacks respect just as much,” said Raleigh-Cohn. Submitting that women and men alike are responsible for this contributor to the rape culture, Raleigh-Cohn ultimately acknowledged that “the whole issue is really complicated.” The second factor Raleigh-Cohn recog-

victim blaming

nized was . This is when, in cases of sexual assault, the cause is said to be what the survivor was wearing, or whether or not they were intoxicated, or factors of that sort. Essentially, victim blaming uses factors within the survivor’s control to explain why the assault happened, rather than

38% of victims are raped by a friend or acquaintance

support and services If you or someone you know has been sexually assualted, it is important to seek help and support. Here are some resources that can help.

Moving to End Sexual Assault

considering causes related to the perpetrator. “Victim blaming makes things a lot easier for people to understand...it makes people feel safer if they can put it on the victim because then the victim didn’t do something that could have kept them safe, and that reinforces the idea that people can keep themselves safe, as opposed to this being something that can affect anyone,” said Raleigh-Cohn. Lastly, she addressed the growing issue of

trivialization of rape

the is when sexual assault is talked about jokingly, or in a disrespectful manner. “It goes back to just a disrespect of women and women’s experiences,” said Raleigh-Cohn. The trivialization of rape is also evident in cases of date or acquaintance rape. According to Raleigh-Cohn, “A lot of things around acquaintance rape and date rape are very easily dismissed as ‘well it wasn’t that bad,’ as though because we knew the person that it was supposed to be any easier or that it was less traumatic. It is really just minimizing of what that experience was like.” Thus these types of rape,

invalidated

are being by society. Another noteworthy cause of rape is the expectation of men to “just always want to have sex all the time,” said Raleigh-Cohn. She continued to explain that “It makes it really easy to

rape jokes

make when it’s assumed that men want to have sex all the time.” This idea reduces men to animalistic beings, and is strong evidence that the origin of America’s rape culture is not one-sided, but has negative implications for both men and women. Raleigh-Cohn emphasized the importance of taking action when you see or hear about a crime taking place. “The most important thing for [survivors] is to be believed. It’s really important to be aware of things that are happening around you even though they may not be affecting you. Bystanders play a huge role in helping prevent sexual violence and a whole lot of other crimes.”

In 47% of rapes that occur, both the victim and perpetrator have been drinking

www.movingtoendsexualassault.org 24 Hour Crisis and Information Hotline:

303-443-7300 “We are moving to end sexual assault and the suffering it causes in our community. We believe every person has the right to live free of sexual assault. We challenge all forms of oppression and recognize their connection to sexual violence.” - MESA

Contact Karin Dudek, Monarch’s school interventionist, in the counseling office (room E127) any time during the school day.

97% of rapists will never spend a day in jail

Statistics from RAINN.org Icons by Natalie Forman

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artsANDentertainment

gatsby? WHAT GATSBY? Why the Great Gatsby will be the best film of the year

by Dalton Vallette Ever since F. Scott Fitzgerald first published his bestseller in 1922, The Great Gatsby has captivated the hearts and minds of readers everywhere. Then in 1974, a daring film adaptation was made starring the dashing Robert Redford and the elegant Mia Farrow which was sure to be a major success. It wasn’t. Yes it grossed $26 million, but critically the film was a disaster and to this day critics pan it. Thirty nine long years later, another major adaptation of the beloved bestseller is set to be released this May. Many say it will be a dud like the Robert Redford interpretation which was lambasted as overly long with no emotional connection to the characters and stripped away the novels glitz and glamour that made the novel so unique. Others, like myself, say this year’s The Great Gatsby will be beyond spectacular and will be the best film of the year. In the 1974 adaptation, Robert Redford and Mia Farrow gave fine performances in their roles as the suave Gatsby and the quirky Daisy. Other than that, the cast was overall mediocre. What will make the new adaptation of The Great Gatsby outstanding is its own superb cast. Leonardo DiCaprio stars as Jay Gatsby and he is, in my opinion, the modern Robert Redford in terms of acting capability and looks. DiCaprio is sure to fit into Gatsby’s shoes nicely and bring a beautiful sense of emotional heft to the character that, no offense, was lacking a tad in Redford’s turn. Carey Mulligan will fill in for Farrow as Daisy. Most don’t know who Mulligan is, she has yet to define herself as an A-list actress, but having seen her in the indie NC-17 rated film Shame, where she plays a role that is similar to the emotionally overwhelmed and impres-

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sionable Daisy, I believe she will play the role of Daisy Buchanan with ease and gusto. Tobey Maguire is a perfect fit to play the wallflower of a protagonist that is Nick Carraway. Even when he was playing Spiderman in the original Spiderman Trilogy, he frequently seemed overshadowed by the minor characters such as Green Goblin, Doctor Octopus, Harry Osborne, and even Mary Jane Watson. Though Nick is the narrator of The Great Gatsby, he is in the shadows of his own life and in essence is a supporting character to his own story. In my mind, Maguire is the best choice possible to play the passive, awkward, third wheeling Nick Carraway. But the stars aren’t always in front of the camera. Most lay behind it. A major flaw of the 1974 The Great Gatsby was the man in the director’s chair, Jack Clayton, which will not be a flaw for the new Gatsby film, the director being Baz Luhrmann. Jack Clayton’s most well-known work is a film called Room at the Top and… besides that and Gatsby that’s about it. He was ill equipped and unprepared to take on such an odyssey that is The Great Gatsby. Now with Baz Luhrmann, that is another story. Many people have different views of director Baz Luhrmann, but in terms of trying to tackle Fitzgerald’s masterpiece, he is perfectly apt to do so. His most well known works include Romeo + Juliet, also starring Leonardo Di-

Caprio, Moulin Rouge!, and Australia. All of these films, especially Australia, are massive in scope. I personally hate the story of Romeo and Juliet, but I was fond of Luhrmann’s modern day interpretation of it. It is also a massive endeavor to bring Shakespeare to the screen well, and Luhrmann was able to do the near impossible with his own adaptation. Luhrmann’s 2001 film Moulin Rouge! is loved by anyone who enjoys musicals and scored eight Academy Award nominations including Best Picture. Australia is an adventurous, expansive film that cemented Luhrmann as a capable director of epics. Is not The Great Gatsby an epic (like Australia), a tale of murder (like Romeo + Juliet) and a tragic, glitzy love story (like Moulin Rouge!)? Those who enjoy Luhrmann films, especially Moulin Rouge!, know how much he loves colors. Colors abound in his wonderlands of eye ecstasy. One of the things that made the 1974 The Great Gatsby a flop was its lack of beauty. Overall, that version is plain, rather dull at times, and lacks the vibrancy and wildness with description that is in the novel. Judging from past Luhrmann projects and the early trailers released, this years The Great Gatsby will have color galore! With the full rainbow spectrum at his disposal, Luhrmann will surely not be shy in using colors to better convey the crazy, whirlwind atmosphere of the roaring 1920’s that is so vividly detailed throughout F. Scott Fitzgerald’s novel. So, this year’s reviving of the classic tale is sure to dazzle and surpass the Robert Redford version is almost every way possible, but what exactly will make this the best film of the year? By this time last year, many moviegoers and critics were drooling in anticipation over dozens of films such as Argo, Lincoln, Zero Dark Thirty, and Moonrise Kingdom. This year there is less drooling. Besides Gatsby, which has been selected to prestigiously open the 2013 Cannes Film Festival, the only major motion pictures that are being talked about are the indie films Mud with Matthew McConaughey and Gravity with George Clooney. Mud so far is already receiving a largely Lukewarm reception while Gravity is too science fiction themed to be hailed at the cream of the crop, and I’m saying this as a lov-

er of Clooney and of Gravity’s director Alfonso Cuarón along with the science fiction genre as a whole. Unlike these two original films, The Great Gatsby has a leg up in terms of being an adaptation of one of the best modern works in the English language and the fact that the previous adaptation was a bomb. This time around, The Great Gatsby has small shoes to fill in order to better satisfy audiences and critics. People for over a year have been jumping up and down over this film when the first brilliant trailer was released and how it will soar above and beyond the expectations of the original adaptation. With little to compete with in terms of cinematic reputation (i.e. competing with the original) and the lack of juicy films for this year, The Great Gatsby will be the best film of the year. Maybe you, reader, have heard a very shocking thing, but hopefully it all makes sense now how Gatsby will be beyond great. After all, you can’t repeat the past. The Great Gatsby opens in theaters May 10.

Illustrations by Katie Berohn

POETS UNVEILED

National Poetry Month lets students express themselves through poetry by Anna Blanco A pen scratching on paper. Telling a story through one person’s hand. Ideas flowing in one’s head. Inspiration, on paper, through words. The wonders explored, universals, sparked by one thought. Recorded at a point in time. The beauty of a poem. This Month is National Poetry Month, a time when poets, readers, schools, and publishers celebrate the wonders of poetry. There are many students here at Monarch who have an interest in poetry and enjoy writing it. This group of students includes sophomore Julie Falkner, and freshman Chloe Gustlin. They both have their own reasons for writing, styles of writing, and inspirations. Julie Falkner began writing poetry last December when she discovered spoken-word poets on YouTube. “I’ve been inspired by a lot of spoken-word poets who have a really powerful impact on people,” said Falkner. She enjoys writing free-verse poetry because there is no rhyme scheme and there are no rules. Falkner has written poems about her life in high school, about psychology because she finds it interesting, and also about people who have inspired her. “I think poetry expresses things in a way that other writing can’t, and it’s not just something for old dead guys,” Falkner explained. Chloe Gustlin began writing poetry when she was in third grade, close to the time she took an interest in songwriting. The poems Gustlin writes are free-verse and poems with a rhyme scheme. Recently Gustlin had an encounter with poetry that was very personal and inspired her to write a little differently. “My brother, who has been bullied in school, found

this great poem that very strongly spoke to him; he showed it to all of us. It helped us talk about how he was getting bullied at school,” she explained. After this event, the focus of her poems changed from rhythm and getting herself out there, to providing connections for readers, and writing about the greater good. She Untitled keeps most of her by Sage Hundsdorfer poems organized in folders, shares Searching some of them with for inspiration her friends, and occasionally reand meaning reads them and edits them. Longing Many poems to be different and other works to have a place by students will be featured in the Living Monarch Literary Tranquilizing Magazine, which and divine will be available in the student Euphoric store, and at the Whispers of faith Treasurer’s winTongues of truth dow in May. Students interested Inspiration in helping produce the Monarch Literary Magazine may join Writer’s Guild. Writer’s Guild meets Wednesdays after school in room L205A, where writers have the opportunity to spend time with other students with common interests.

SPRING FASHIONS

Learn how to dress for your body by Ellie Oliver Let’s face it, not everyone was born with a tall slender body that the fashion industry glorifies. Everyone is different and wants to look their best. There are stupendous spring fashions that will suit any physique. Do you have a petite frame? This spring, look into eye-catching belts and shirts that flow around your torso. This will give off the curvy illusion you’re looking for. Plus you can’t go wrong with a high waisted skirt matched with a tight, tucked in blouse. This look gives a slimming yet curvy appeal to your build. Do you have curves? When the warm weather hits, empire shaped dresses can help tone down the curves and put an emphasis on the rib cage, giving off a slimming appearance. However, this dress can complement any figure. Or you could trick onlooker eyes with a monochrome outfit. When you dress in contrasting shades, this can accentuate a heavier, shorter appearance. A color like blue is always a go for a slimming look. It can be frustrating to get the right look for your body shape, but with these spring looks, you can’t go wrong! Try them out and see how they work for you!

Petite girls can pull off stripes with ease. Photo credit: Ellie Oliver

TEacher TIME MACHINE by Abbi Goodgion and Sam Cast with Christina Rodie

Although students may only know their teachers as adults, every staff member was once a child and teenager too, just like any average Monarch student. Their lives are filled with wonderful memories, all contributing to make them who they are today. Here’s a quick look back in time at some of Monarch’s staff members.

KATHY REED

Photo courtesy of Kathy Reed

Favorite band as a teen: Simon and Garfunkel Been Teaching For: 35 years Funny moment: “There are too many funny moments to pick one. You can always find a good reason to laugh when you put a group of people together for an entire year. Someone always has a joke to tell or something stupid someone did, including the teacher.”

MYSTAYN BARNES

Photo courtesy of Mystayn Barnes

Favorite band as a teen: Bon Jovi Been Teaching For: 13 years Funny moment: “ When I was a newspaper sponsor we were always at school working late the week of deadlines. There is a lot of nonsensical laughter at 10.00 PM when you have been working on the same document for six hours. Those times not only provide laughter, but memories close to my heart.”

mike davidoff

Photo courtesy of Mike Davidoff

Favorite band as a teen: The Grateful Dead Been Teaching For: 13 years Funny moment: “The ongoing joking and jesting with my colleagues... This happens on a daily basis!”

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DECODING DR. SeuSS

GREEN EYES BY SENIOR MARIAH STOTSKY: THIS MONTH’S FEATURED ARTIST

by Olivia Coleman In light of the spring plays, The Seussification of Romeo and Juliet and The Seussification of A Midsummer Night’s Dream, it makes sense to have Dr. Seuss’s unusual vocabulary decoded. After studying these original Dr. Seuss words, you’re sure to start talking in rhyme!

Bar-ba-loots: creatures found under Truffula Trees (from The Lorax) Beezle-nut oil: what the Sour Kangaroo threatened to boil Horton’s speck of dust in (from Horton Hears a Who!)

Disn’t: the equivalent of doesn’t, used to rhyme with isn’t (from Happy Birthday

to You!)

Faddle: a button used to hold the wamel of a camel (from Did I Ever Tell You How Lucky You Are?)

Floob: a letter in the extended alphabet (from On Beyond Zebra) Jertain: a creature that can be found in a curtain (from There’s a Wocket in My

Pocket!)

Klotz: a creature with black dots on its back (from Oh Say Can You Say?) Lerkim: the Once-ler’s hideaway (from The Lorax) Na-Nupp: a nice place to take a nap (from Oh the Things You Can Think!) Oom-pahs: an instrument used by the Whos to be heard (from Horton Hears

a Who!)

Razz: another word used for raspberries (from I Can Lick 30 Tigers Today!) Skrope: what is suggested to wash soup off a rope (from Oh Say Can You Say!) Thneed: something knitted by the Once-ler using the tufts from the Truffula Trees

(from The Lorax)

MAY HOROSCOPES Astrologist in residence: Narcissa Luna After waking up one day, I, Narcissa, felt that I had obtained all the knowledge of the stars that I could ever need, despite the fact that I have never read a single book or taken a single class on anything space-related. My calculations are taken simply through observation, intuition and a small bit of guessing. Enjoy. Taurus: (April 20-May 20) Bling bling! This month will bring piles of wealth Taurus, and just in time for your birthday! You’ll be finding cash on the streets, in old pairs of pants, and heck, people will just be giving it to you. Unfortunately, at the end of the month, the government will seize your newfound cash, so make sure to spend it quick!

Leo: (July 23-August 22) True to the symbol of the brave Leo, you’ll find yourself feeling rather lion-like as May nears. Your nails will grow long and sharp, your hair will become wild and mangy, and you will have an insatiable craving for fish. Make sure not to attack anybody this month!

Scorpio:(October 23-November 21) As the language winds of Saturn blow strong on the 5th, you’ll be incredibly reminiscent of Doctor Dolittle. Animals will begin to communicate with you randomly, but unfortunately, they will only be able to speak Korean. Good luck!

Gemini: (May 21-June 20) An unnaturally strong odor will be following you this month, unlucky Gemini. Since the filthy moon of Uranus is in orbit this month, your breath will be unbearable, and your B.O. will cause flowers to wilt. The only solution to the stench is to isolate yourself until the stink fades on the 25th.

Virgo: (August 23-September 22) As the love star of the 7th space sector shines bright this month, you will be doted on relentlessly by your significant other. They will tend to your every need, whether you are hungry, tired, or cranky, they will be there to care for you. However, make sure they know that they are appreciated or the backlash will be fierce. Thank you cards never go out of style.

Sagittarius:(November 22-December 21) You will have a huge wilderness adventure this month as the pine forest on Jupiter grows especially luscious. Pack light, but don’t worry, you won’t run low on supplies as a pack of wolves will soon adopt you as their own. Plan on returning home around the 29th.

Libra: (September 23 -October 22) May will be an especially lazy month for you, Libra. Your muscles will grow weak and you will feel constantly fatigued. Stock up on movies and ice cream for a long month of laying in bed.

Capricorn:(December 22-January 19) Beware of bees! This month you will be inexplicably attractive to bees. And not friendly, just-wanna-landon-you-and-sit-there bees, but vicious bees. Be sure to buy plenty of ointment for the inevitable plethora of stings you will encounter.

Cancer: (June 21-July 22) This month will be a strange one for you, Cancer. On the 3rd, your doppelgänger will miraculously find you, and it will be a joyous reunion, until it turns sour on the 15th. Your doppelgänger will begin to turn your friends against you, and flip your life upside down. However, astronomy won’t solve your problems this month. It’s up to you to get rid of this fiendish look-alike.

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Aquarius:(January 20-February 18) Last month’s horoscope was incorrect, as the meteors of hatred interrupted what was supposed to be a love-filled month. If you still haven’t professed your love for that special someone, do it. Do it now!

Pisces: (February 19-March 20) You’re in need of some serious positive karma this month, Pisces. The stars recommend frequent gift-giving (extra points if the gift-receiver is a redhead). Giving stray dogs baths and tying strangers’ shoes while they eat at a fancy restaurant are also topnotch for some positive mojo this month.

Aries: (March 21-April 19) The Aries moon is in full eclipse this month. Unfortunately, this means you don’t get a horoscope this month. Sorry, you’re on your own.

Sports Monarch Travels coast to coast Sports teams take trips across the country by Natalie Forman

G

ames in Colorado Springs and Ft. Collins can seem like a big production. Often a dinner is packed or homework is brought along so that the few hours in the bus are not wasted. While this may seem like a lot of work, when compared to two hour plane flights, these games are a walk in the park. Over spring break two teams received the chance to travel outside of Colorado and see how they compare to other highly ranked programs. Varsity Lacrosse journeyed on their annual trip to California and the varsity Baseball team went to Arizona and both finished with a winning record. The girls’ Ultimate Frisbee team is still waiting for their chance to travel to Amherst, Massachusetts in May so that they can take on some new competition. With these trips come improvement on the field, but also in the dugout, and on the bench and side line. The Lacrosse team went into spring break hoping “to go and see a different range of teams and get some more games under our belt,” according to senior Davis Whitaker, leading scorer for the team. The team emerged from the trip with a 2-1 record. “We played one of the best teams in southern California, called Poway and they beat us pretty handily… We also played a pretty bad team who we beat pretty handily,” said Whitaker. “Playing those really good teams in California, they have different offensive strategies so we learned a whole bunch just from watching them play.” While in San Diego the team soaked up the golden California sun, not only when playing lacrosse but also when bonding as a team. They were also able to enjoy a day at Sea World, and watch a movie as a team, as well as play some basketball games. Whitaker’s favorite part of the trip was “getting to know the freshmen and sophomores and juniors coming in. Our team this year is mostly sophomores and I got to know a lot of sophomores that I didn’t think I would ever get to know which is pretty cool.” While growing as a team on the lacrosse field, the lacrosse players were also able to develop tighter social bonds. The girls’ Ultimate Frisbee team has not traveled out of the state yet this year, but they are certainly ready to get out of here. Last year their plan to travel to a tournament in Utah fell apart when other teams in the tournament backed out. Senior Meredith Krautler-Klemme explained, “The team is going because we didn’t get to go to Westerns last year and we really want a challenge because the competition in Colorado is not so grand.” When asked what she is looking forward to, Krautler-Klemme said, “There is going to be some good team bonding and I think we will improve as a team playing harder competition. We can actually see what we are capable of accomplishing.” Unlike other Monarch teams which travel out of state, the girls’ Ultimate team will be staying with a family that has a child on an Amherst Frisbee team. “The culture of Ultimate lends to the fact there is a huge community that allows

us to travel to other places for a fairly low cost because other Ultimate players are willing to let us stay with them. I think is a really unique part of the sport,” explained Krautler-Klemme. The Amherst tournament is known for their steep competition and attracts teams from all over the country. There will be teams playing from Washington, New Jersey and Pennsylvania. Monarch’s goal for the trip? “We are hoping to win, baby.” The baseball team traveled to Phoenix, Arizona on their annual spring break trip. “We went on the trip to get ourselves going and do some preseason games and see where we are at,” said sophomore Jacob Stockebrand who plays first base and pitches. Going into the trip, Stockebrand said, “We were expecting really good competition and we got really good competition.” There were benefits of the games. “We had more time to play and more time to get the rust out,” said Stockebrand. When not playing baseball, the team played basketball, swam and stayed busy pranking one another. “Everybody got pranked” said Stockebrand. “The shaving crème kind of [prank], where they knock on the door and you come out and they put shaving crème in your face”. While Stockebrand was a victim of some of these pranks, he said, “It was a lot of fun and a good time”. Out of state trips may seem like a logistical hassle, but Monarch’s sports teams have seemed to have benefitted from the trips. Baseball and lacrosse have combined to lose only two games since returning from their respective out-of-state competitions. Overall, the two teams have compiled a 5-2 record since returning.

B a s e b a l l

l a c r o s s e Scan to see up to date records and statistics for both the baseball and lacrosse teams.

Who: Ultimate Frisbee When: May 3rd-5th,2013 Where: Amherst, MA Scores: N/A

Who: Boys’ Lacrosse When: Spring Break (March 25-30) Where: San Diego, CA Record: 2-1, W Serra (15-2), W Granite Hills (13-11), L Poway (6-17)

Who: Baseball When: 2013 Spring Break March 25th30th Where: Phoenix, AZ Scores: L Greenway (0-8), W Shadow Mountain (6-2), W Copper Canyon (10-0), W – Thunderbird (11-9)

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Are High Salaries

Harming

Pro SPorts? Mo’ Money Mo’ Problems Still a beautiful game by Conner Lund

by David Andrews

A

s The Notorious B.I.G. once so aptly stated, “mo’ money, mo’ problems.” Christopher Wallace may not have been referring specifically to professional sports, but he might as well have been. Our society has a serious problem on its hands in the form of unfair salaries for professional athletes. One must look no further than a recent deal struck by Joe Flacco with the Baltimore Ravens. Despite being nowhere near the best quarterback in the N.F.L., Flacco received a $120.6 million contract, making him the highest paid player in the N.F.L. Flacco will be receiving $20.1 million per year. While the money in this specific contract is not guaranteed, it is one example of an exorbitant salary for an athlete. An athlete that plays a game, and in the large scheme of things does not add much to the betterment of society. Sadly, we have inflated the value of professional athletes so much that no eyebrows are raised by an athlete signing a contract to make 51.5 times the salary of the President of the United States. What began as a leisurely pastime in the United States now holds major significance in all of our lives. Why else would there not be uproar over professional athletes being easily the highest compensated workers in our country? Why don’t public servants such as teachers, firefighters, and social workers receive higher salaries? Their value to society is much greater than providing entertainment for at most threehours at a time. These people dedicate their lives to the betterment of others. Why then can we not compensate teachers, the educators of our children, on a level anywhere close to that of professional athletes? It is because as sports fans we have placed athletes on an unfair pedestal. Idolatrous devotion is bestowed upon athletes without them doing anything to earn it beyond having a certain set of physical talents. This is not to take away the endless hours of hard work and devotion athletes have put in to reach the pinnacle of their sport, but come on people, we can do better than this. In addition to the ugly hypocrisy that these salaries reveal about our society, they harm professional sports as a whole. The amounts of money available in the sports pushes athletes to cheat and disregard standard moral codes to achieve success and, in turn, wealth. For example, in December of 2007 a report published by Senator George Mitchell implicated over 60 professional baseball players in performance enhancing drug use. This report exposed what had been a long process of cheating in Major League Baseball, now coined as The Steroid Era. There are countless other examples in professional sports of cheating. Do we see accountants and doctors taking performance enhancers to climb the corporate ladder? No. Such wealth exists for these athletes because the American public is willing to pay the high ticket prices which fund athlete’s salaries. It’s easy to direct the anger over high salaries to owners and general managers, and while they are partially responsible, at the end of the day the average American is funding the cycle of high salaries and is therefore part of the problem The athletes who are raking in the cash should be benefitting from this system, right? In many cases, wrong. Professional athletes immediately become targets for predatory agents upon entering the N.F.L and often times are preyed upon by those close to them. In the E.S.P.N documentary film “Broke,” former Cleveland Browns quarterback quarterback Bernie Kosar admits, “there was probably different times, I was taking care of 25, 50 families.” The excessive salaries athletes make end up hurting them financially in the long run. They are given a false sense of wealth and many end up spending excessively. Also, according to the documentary, within two years of retirement 78 percent of N.F.L players are bankrupt or facing financial hardship. This statistic is mirrored in the N.B.A, within five years of retirement 60 percent of players are bankrupt. Given, some athletes spend wisely and end up living luxurious lives. However, the vast majority of athletes do not. When looked at as a whole the issue of exorbitant salaries in professional sports has obviously had detrimental impacts. The system of paying professional athletes, who overall add little to society is unjust and at the end of the day benefits very few people.

S

ports: An occasion in which the community is brought together in an epic spectacle of strategy, pure athleticism, and money. Yes, money. Money plays a significant role in the sports arena today. And yet, although higher salaries are a part of the game, they do not destroy the basis of the game. Sports will be sports, and people will keep enjoying this industry. In light of Alex Rodriguez’s new contract, set at approximately $29 million a year, some say that this is corrupt and unfair. But even with new extended salaries, the game plays on. People forget money, and focus on what truly matters: the game. Sports will thrive on, regardless of salary. Currently, sports have emerged as the prominent extra-curricular activity nationwide. Football, basketball, and baseball dominate the high school setting. And these sports don’t have salaries. Instead, kids play sports for the valuable experience, and to simply play the game. Kids don’t think about the money involved in being an athlete. They only consider the fact that they will be able to play competitively against other teams, and be able to strive for athletic perfection. Children will continue to play sports throughout time, regardless of professional salaries, and regardless of corrupt practices at the professional level. When it comes down to it, athletes, young or old, big or small, play the game to play it, and the money comes later. Sports are still the same game, the same players, and the same spirit instilled in the seats. The only difference: now money is involved. Simply put, money is just a straggler that hangs onto the lives of athletes. It is an added bonus to practicing with your friends every day, a bonus to hit home runs while the fans cheer you on, and a bonus to score a goal against world-renowned goalies. Money does not corrupt sports; it just tags along as sports thrive as a prominent form of expression. Also, salaries have not corrupted the sport itself, rather they have corrupted athletes that have risen to the top of the athletic ladder. Athletes like Alex Rodriguez are the issue. He is the one that has all of the negotiation power, because if his team does not meet his needs, he can just be picked up by another team. But again, these athletes are professionals who have achieved greatness, and regardless of their current salary, or their current team for that matter, these athletes will still bring joy to fans, and will still play the game for their enjoyment. On top of that, an athlete’s rise, such as the case with A-Rod, was not money-driven. Instead, his love for the game was what in the end drove him to become one of the best of his time, hitting 647 home runs in his career, with 2,901 hits. Money does not drive athletes to become great; it is their own passion and love for the game, as well as their drive for perfection and greatness that allows them to achieve fame and fortune. When it comes down to it, spectators will still spectate, players will still play their sport, and athletes will still demand higher salaries. But despite the money, sports will still remain a pure form of expression within our society. It will continue to bring the community together. It will still bring joy to young athletes striving to be the best, and also give life to old spectators, looking back on their childhood sports they used to play. In light of higher Key: and longer contracts, the game is still 1 coin: $100,000 maintained throughout the community, and so contrary to popular belief, *2011-2012 seasons money simply has not corrupted the (StatisticBrain) institution of sports. Imagine being able to step up to the plate and spank one into left field. Imagine being able to take your son, and grandson, to a baseball game; to buy him a hot dog and peanuts while cheering your favorite team on. Imagine being able to get together every Sunday to eat junk food, have fun, and partake in a good ol’ American Tradition, in which you retreat from work life for a day to focus on your friends, other fans, and players. At the end of the day, money is not the true meaning of sports, and fans and athletes focus on the thing that truly matters: the game.

Average Yearly Salary in Major American Sports

NBA

MLB

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5.2m

2.5m

NFL

1.75m

NHL

PGA

1.3m

.97m

Snapshot: Lily Armijo Senior sprinter breaks down her technique

Start your timers: Lily Armijo is planning on leaving her competition in the dust

“Keeping my head down is something I’ve struggled with. Sprinting is all about form and keeping your head down is important. We have great coaches here and since I’ve improved my form my times have been improving.” “When you get into the blocks you have to stay loose. I usually shake my legs a little to stay loose. When they say ‘set’, I go up. This is easily the most important part; you can take off half a second for a bad start.”

“When I hear ‘go” I start my stride. So, my right foot comes forward and I swing my left arm.”

Senior Lily Armijo runs the 100 and 200 meter dash along with the spring medley, the 4x100 relay and the 4x200 relay. Armijo admits the spring medley is her favorite event. The medley involves two 100 meter runners, one 200 meter runner, and one 400 meter runner. “I enjoy it because after I run my 100 I get to stop and watch the rest of the relay.” Last year, the spring medley team broke the school record. This season also promises to bring some success as all of Monarch’s sprint relays have qualified for the state meet. Most recently, the 4x200 relay team finished 4th at the Boulder Country Track & Field Championships with a time of 1.47.11.

“After about 20 meters I pick my head up and then it’s basically just normal running from there.”

No room at Mohi

Practice conflicts frustrate student athletes by Tyler Debord

S

pring sports are a huge part of the culture at Monarch. There’s baseball, track and field, girls soccer, tennis, lacrosse, and ultimate frisbee. The problem is, all of these teams cannot have a traditional after school practice because of the space that the school grounds provide for sports teams in the spring. There are limited practice grounds, and for that student athletes are forced to have a stressful schedule which involves late practices. Let’s take a look at how frustrating field conflicts can be student athletes. There are six spring sports offered at Monarch. However, only three of these teams have dedicated practice fields. Lacrosse, girls soccer, track and field, and ultimate frisbee ultimately have the foremost problems. “Girls soccer got a new coach, so now we have to share the field with them,” said junior lacrosse player Max Weisner. Weisner added, “It’s not fun because our good goals are on the turf.” Weisner said, “It could affect our success as a team because we get less practice.” The success of the team relies mainly on how a team practices. The old saying, “you play how you practice”, comes into play. Any team is as important as the next, and the track and field team is no exception. The problem with sharing fields is that teams can’t get the full function and necessity of a practice field because they are constantly having to be on the look out for the other team which leads to problems. “No one has to use the track,” explained junior Parker Sitton, “but we have to watch out for lacrosse balls and things like that.” However, that’s not the only issue that troubles the team. “If we want to stretch on the turf, we can’t use it,” said Sitton, referring to the use of the turf field by either the lacrosse team or the girls soccer team. The ultimate frisbee team has conflicts of their own, not concerning the turf field. They have to share with the soccer team as well on a field located on the other side of the school. “I think it’s a struggle, there’s not enough space,” explained ultimate frisbee player Son Nguyen. He added, “I don’t think it necessarily affects success, but it’s hard to take [underclassmen] to different places.” Underclassmen don’t have the ability to drive so it is much harder to transport them to different practice areas. Along with the frustration of not being able to practice comes the struggle of high school

A map of the Monarch High School grounds. The school is in the forground and the turf is located to the east. (Photo Credit: Design Concepts

and the hard work it requires to stay eligible for your team. “Sometimes it affects school work because you don’t know when you’re going to practice,” said freshman soccer player Kaylee Mickens. “The schedule is different each week; we switch off with lacrosse on the field one week and then they get it the next,” Mickens further explained. The hassles and frustrations among spring sports teams are understandable in that student athletes mainly have a busy schedule on a day to day basis. Monarch Athletic Director Lani Nobles feels the tensions of these conflicts. “I’m working on it as we speak, canceling officials and buses, notifying teams and schools, working on rescheduling dates, times, and officials,” she added, “The only team it hasn’t affected is the swim and dive team.” Not having your own practice space can be frustrating. “It’s not a fun thing to have to fight for your spot on the field” said Mickens.

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The Howler strives to inform, educate, and entertain the student body of Monarch High School as a monthly student-produced newspaper and open forum for student free expression. The paper will also provide a forum for community opinions.

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