Issue 2 December 2015

THE GEYSER Park High School Livingston, Montana

Volume 100 Issue 2 December 18, 2015

Should wellness even be a policy?

KATLYN GILLEN Geyser Staff Writer

Life doesn’t exist without food. Most students’ minds are focused more on their bag of homemade chocolate chip cookies for lunch than studying for their history test. Some minds may even wander to Cookie Fridays in Lynne Perry’s Stats class, where students bring delicious cake pops, Peanut Butter Hershey Kiss cookies, or fudge brownies.

What most students don’t realize is that the federal government and local school board can impact what students are allowed to eat at school. Local board policy 2510 (Wellness Policy), adopted in 2006, regulates the school lunch program and vending machines, but also has jurisdiction over food used as classroom rewards, sold as fundraisers, and offered by afterschool programs.

Recently the school board has created specific guidelines called the Administrative Procedures for Implementation of Wellness Policy 2510. The process is slow going but includes input from parents/guardians, teachers, students, school food service program, and the public.

Some of the guidelines such as “birthday recognitions should discourage treats and encourage celebrating in other ways that do not include foods,” surely stir up conversation.

“There isn’t much of a point to get rid of treats when someone’s birthday occurs once a year,” states freshman, Avery Montgomery.

Fundraisers could

Photos by Eden Jones

Four examples of a school lunch. Top left: (home lunch) 583 calories, 20.9g fat, 29g sugar. Top right: (salad bar) 750-850 calories, ~20g fat, no added sugar. Bottom left: (hot lunch) 540 calories, 33.5g fat, 9.5g sugar. Bottom right: (Subway) 777 calories, 27g fat, 65g sugar. be affected during the implementation of this policy.

The procedure states that all fundraisers must fit the nutrition requirements, but this doesn’t apply to non-school hours, weekends, or off-campus events. There is an exception for infrequent fundraisers determined by state agencies.

“This may make it difficult for clubs to make money. The school should at least provide other alternatives to raise money,” argues senior, Mariah Pierce.

Federal nutrition guidelines have been in place for over two years, but this is the first year they have impacted the ala-carte program, said John Polacik, Food Service Director. “It is noticeable, the students don’t like it, and we are losing business,” he said.

To comply with the new rules, food companies are just “turning the old garbage into new garbage,” Polacik explained, using the example of snack foods such as chips and Rice Krispy treats that have been chemically

altered to meet specific guidelines.

Because of all these changes, more students are leaving campus. “If a student wants a Peace Tea, they are going to go buy one,” says Polacik. As a result of more students leaving campus for lunch, discussion has turned to the possibility of closed-campus.

“This is something that has been discussed at the high school level and some discussion at the board level. No decisions have been made in this area at this time,” said Druska Kinkie, board

chair of the policy committee.

“Our school needs to find a happy medium. A medium between being healthy and buying things that will get us through the day,” said junior Zeb Hardesty.

The policy stipulates that the superintendent should collect feedback from students, teachers, and parents and then report to the committee.

To share your opinion, please email rich.moore@ livingston.k12.mt.us no later than the first week of January.

HURRY UP AND WAIT!!!

ERLAN WORTH Geyser Staff Writer

If the line is long, then there must be some good food that the school is serving, or it can be students that are budging in line just to get lunch faster. It takes an estimate time of nine minutes and fifty three seconds for everyone to get their hot lunch. It takes sixteen minutes forty seconds for everyone to get Ala Carte.

What is causing the line to take so long to get our food? Well it can depend on the lunches that the school is serving, or there are shorthanded workers in the hot lunch.

It takes at least two min-

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utes and thirty seconds for one student to get their lunch. The Administrative Procedures for Implementation of Wellness Policy 2510 talk about putting in healthy food for lunch and that the school should replace junk foods. The policy states that students should wait in lines for no longer than seven minutes.

The line takes longer because the students visit with their friends rather than listening to the cafateria workers.

Darcie Kahila, a lead cook, says “It’s common for the lunch ladies to have shorthanded workers, so that is another reason for the lunch line to take long.”

Freshman Colin McKenzie says “Chicken strips and mashed

potatoes makes the line longer.”

Freshman Lukas Ridgeway says “Hot lunch should take at least ten minutes to get through.”

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Some of the most popular foods include Ranger cookies, chili and cinnamon rolls, and chicken strips and mashed po-

tatoes, taco crunch, and teriyaki chicken with fried rice. All of these cause the lines to become long and time consuming.

Sophomore Sam Rockafellow and teacher Carol Powalisz wait for their chili and cinnamon rolls, one of the most popular school lunches.

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Photo by Katlyn Gillen

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December 18, 2015

THE GEYSER

2 Personal takes on the wellness policy IN MY OPINION

IN MY OPINION

SARAH KISTHART

DENISE BENDEN

From our past knowledge and history, we know and we are all aware that proper nutrition and physical education is good for us. They both benefit our lives in many ways. As a matter of fact, it is a choice. Each person has the freedom to choose what they do, who they are, and who they’re going to become.

From kindergarten to 12th grade each person who attends public school has had classes about nutrition as well as physical education and its importance.

They have learned and they know what the consequences are.

Now do they care about what happens if they have poor nutrition or shape? It depends on the person and what their choice is.

In my opinion, I think that the classroom rewards should be non-food items for two main reasons. One, for the students

Opinion

“ I think enforcing

the Wellness Policy will be a model for positive encouragement”

who have allergies; what do they get? Their parents didn’t know that they were going to be handing out treats that day. I feel as though if they were given the same, non-food reward that they would feel less of an outcast, and more involved in the class. Two, we are also not in school or class to eat. Yes,we eat lunch at school and we may have a snack or two during the day, but we are not in school to eat junk food like candy.

I agree that handing out food rewards that have sugars, artificial flavors, etc. does create an unde-

Has your sweet tooth ever gone so far out of control that all you can eat is candy? Well, not anymore! Thanks to the new Photo by Jaclyn Gosselin law called the ‘Wellness Policy”, all candy will be out of reach for sirable behavior. It’s not that we children because we are American can’t reward someone for doing a and we cannot control ourselves.

Imagine a world of going good job on an essay or a homework assignment. We can, just trick-or-treating and gaining temporary tattoos, pencils, and bat not with food.

What happens at home, hap- stickers! And floss! Think of all pens at home. The school doesn’t the floss! Imagine a world where have any authority over that. good deeds are rewarded with a They can however give positive package of calorie counted, plasencouragement to students. Will tic wrapped, cholesterol free nibthey listen? That’s their choice. bles with a sample of everything Eating environments at home from the infamous food pyramid! may be different than school. Carrots and celery, oh what joy!

We all know the WellAgain it’s the students’ choice, but I think enforcing the ness Policy is supposed to better Wellness Policy will be a model our school, but I for one believe for positive encouragement and if that rewarding kids with candy people don’t like it, it means they is more effective than handing really don’t care about the health them a shiny gold star sticker for of students, let alone their own. answering a tedious question correctly. Want to bring your favorite treat to class to celebrate your

Breathalyzing while dancing

birthday? If it is over 35% sugar, you can just forget about it. And no more yummy snacks or drinks from the vending machines.

I understand that the policy is being used to make the students and teachers healthier, but the act of changing regular soda to diet soda in our vending machines is not exactly a “healthy alternative.” Diet soda has been scientifically proven to worsen your health more so than regular soda because of the sugar alternatives called acesulfame-K and aspartame which causes nausea, dizziness, mood changes, and headaches. Sounds pretty fun, right?

I do believe that the Wellness Policy was created for the better, but I also believe that we should be able to make our own decisions. That is what helps us grow up. One main reason why the Wellness Policy was created is because America has the highest obesity rate, which apparently can only be changed by reducing the variety of foods available in schools. People should be able to decide whether or not they want candy or soda without the government controlling that aspect of our lives. Instead of limiting the varieties of food the school system offers, maybe we could add more active classes and provide time in the typical school day for sustained physical exercise.

Sugar is good in moderation and restricting access is not the same as teaching a healthy lifestyle.

2015-2016 Geyser Staff

IN MY OPINION

Editor-in-Chief:

Eden Jones

Sports Editor:

Madison Patrick

Opinion Editor:

Devin Brandal

Performing Arts Editor: TORI GUENZLER Photo by Cody Fingerson

This year Park High introduced a new drug policy.

The policy has caused a lot of debate on whether it is good or bad. Even though that topic has been talked about a lot, a new topic has arose just recently.

There has been a lot of talk on the issue of being breathalyzed at a school dance. The views are two sided. Many believe it is fair and many believe it isn’t.

In all honesty, I never even thought about which side I supported until I was assigned this story. It never seemed to be a big issue until a student was picked to be breathalyzed at the Halloween dance, and then everyone had an opinion.

I choose to support the act of random breathalyzer tests. Some students may argue that it is an invasion of privacy, and I really do not see that side of the argument. While at a school function I think that it is totally reasonable to be sober.

Another argument I have heard is that we didn’t agree to it in the drug testing contract that was signed, but this policy has been around for quite a

Park High students at this years winter formal. “Blurred Photo for effect.” Should students like the ones above be breathalized?

while which is clearly unknown by many students.

While attending a school function and being a minor it is totally acceptable to be tested if you are breaking the law. If you don’t want to get in trouble then don’t do it in the first place, or go home.

In multiple schools, one of the requirements to even get into the dance is to get breathalyzed. They have officials at the front door testing the students.

Many students also argue that it is illegal. But research shows it is totally legal. An attorney from Appelman Law explained the similarity of this to the athletic policy. If you want to participate in a sport you have to abide by the school rules. And the same follows with a school function. If you want to attend you have to abide by the school policy.

The only reason this testing is being done is for the safety of the student

body. The leading cause of death in teenagers, ages 1519, is automobile wrecks.

A breathalyzer test can dramatically change that statistic, but it obviously does not prevent all teen drinking.

Even the rumor of a breathalyzer test at a dance will steer kids, who normally drink or use recreational drugs, away from attending that school function. While it might not make them stop, it does make the other students safer.

Saying that the staff is trying to invade our privacy and is breaking the law for testing us is completely ridiculous. Again, if drinking before a school function is so important to you then you probably shouldn’t be attending anyway, because it doesn’t really sound like you even want to be there.

The answer to this so called problem is completely obvious to anyone. If you think that it is such a big deal and an invasion of privacy then don’t attend the school function.

Destiny Ingram

Entertainment Editor:

Deja Kant

Photo Editor:

Matthew Polillo

Online Editor:

Sarah Kisthart

Advertising Manager:

Matt Seifert

Sports Social Media Editor:

Sterling Lay

Activity Social Media Editor: Cody Fingerson Staff Reporters: Don Cummins, Holly Evans, Katlyn Gillen, Jaclyn Gosselin, Victoria Guenzler, Andrew Holden, Erin Johnson,Jordan Lehrer, Kaitlyn Marsh, Collin Martin, Kati McClish, Ava Nelson, Zoe Randall, Sheyenne Will, Alex Williams, Erlan Worth Advisors: Kate Lende and Lynnette Evanson *Emai l us at geyserstaff@gmai l.com

THE GEYSER

3 Park High votes for 2016 presidential candidates December 18, 2015

IN MY OPINION

DON CUMMINS

The Geyser staff conducted a poll asking students and teachers, which Presidential candidate they would vote for.

Out of 251 responses, 40 percent voted Democrat, with Bernie Sanders receiving the majority of 89 votes (which accounts for 35 percent of total votes cast and 87 percent of the Democrat vote). Sanders therefore won the political poll at Park High.

60 percent of votes cast

were for Republican candidates, but due to the broad GOP field, the votes were more spread out. The majority of the Republican vote went to Donald Trump, who received 28 percent of the total vote and 47 percent of the Republican vote.

Dr. Ben Carson from Florida received 33 votes.

Former US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton from New York received 11 votes.

Opinion

I sincerely hope that this poll will reflect the actual presidential vote, allbeit with one small difference-- Trump not even being able to run.

“Feel the Bern, Trump!”

-Jane Doe

Twitter kills favorite star IN MY OPINION

Humans living on Mars by 2026?

DEVIN BRANDAL

IN MY OPINION

COLLI N MARTIN Ever since man could gaze up at the night sky, they have wondered if they could travel beyond Earth. We have accomplished this dream with the Apollo landings on the moon, but like most people, they want more. NASA wishes to take astronauts farther than the moon with the 2024 plan to have humans live on Mars.

The selection of these astronauts depends on how well they work with others, and how the candidates respond to living in harsh and remote simulated Mars habitats. By the end, NASA wants to train four groups of six people to train for the Mars-One Mission.

To prepare for the astronauts landing on Mars, a 2018 lander will be sent to the planet to test the technology needed for the astronauts. In 2020 a rover will also travel to Mars, whose job is to scope out a landing site for the astronauts that will

A perspective of both Mars and be north enough for the soil to contain enough water, but equatorial enough to receive plenty of sunlight for the solar panels.

Two years later in 2022, another rover, two living units, and two life support units will also be delivered to Mars. This cargo will land near the first rover, and will set up solar panels to power the units that will produce a breathable atmosphere in the habitat, 3,000 litres of water, and 120 kg of oxygen that will be later used by the astronauts.

Fundraising for the Mars-One mission include philanthropist donations, sponsorship deals, crowd-funding, and licensing property rights from

Photo from thetelegraph.com

Earth viewed from NASA’s Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter Satellite. inventions that are made along When asked about the the preparation of the mission. Mars One-Mission, Mrs. DlacOverall the total cost of the one kic commented that it would be way mission will be six billion “Fantastic. The amount of things dollars. Benefits of the Mars- we can learn from a mission like that can apply to basic science,” and added that many technological advances come from these things like life support and velcro from the Apollo Missions.

Which would be incredable!

I think that this mission would be a great opportunity for those that will be selected, even One mission range from expandthough that they will be leaving ing our human presence beyond their family and home planet, nevEarth to learning if there is life er to see either again. I personally on Mars. Since the red planet’s would love to venture to Mars. I formation and evolution is simihave always been a fan of travlar to Earth, we could learn more eling and exploring new places. of our planet’s history and future.

“Mars is there waiting to be reached.”

Buzz Aldrin

If you don’t already have a Twitter account, it probably isn’t worth your time anymore. The new Twitter update has recently removed the well-known Favorite button, ruining all of Twitter.

The founders of Twitter changed the little gold star icon, and replaced it with an even smaller red heart, making it like every other social media site, giving us the option to “like” a post. This is a horrible decision because it is a fact that the Like button belongs to Facebook, and it should stay that way. Second, the little red heart is for Instagram, everyone knows that. Twitter should not have changed their most-known thing, and copied something from another social media site.

Twitter was the only site that had a Favorite button; now the uniqueness of Twitter is gone. Without the Favorite button, Twitter is just the new form of Instagram, but with emotional Tweets instead of pictures. If this hasn’t bothered any other Tweeters, then I should really rethink my priorities and put whiteout over this article’s byline.

THE GEYSER

December 18, 2015

Entertainment

Watch out kids, Krampus is coming to town MATTHEW POLILLO Geyser Staff Writer You better watch out, you better not cry, you better not pout, I’m telling you why; Krampüs is coming to literally beat you into being nice.

We all know the famous myth of Santa Claus and his jolly self, but most don’t know the myth of Krampüs, the socalled “Christmas devil.” The word Krampüs itself is derived from the German word Krampen (meaning claw) and is part of German Christmas tradition, but the myth itself actually stems from Norse mythology. He is, supposedly, the son of Hel, who is the ruler of Helheim, realm of the dead. Krampüs, in contrast to his counterpart St. Nicholas, is actually somewhat of a nightmare. With horns, dark hair, and fangs, Krampüs carries around a ball and chain that he lashes out with, and birch sticks to swat naughty children before carrying

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the doll was also whipping the mom’s face with her long slimy tongue, drenching it in saliva.

What should have been a horrific scene was laughable.

The digital effects of the movie itself were, for the most part, extremely well done.

Granted, there were times that you were wondering why the effects look like they went back to the 90’s, but those moments were far and few between. Take, for example, the aforementioned CG Gingerbread men. Although their digital effects probably weren’t the best, their hellish antics addThe first trailer for ‘Christmas Horror Story’ promises a holiday classic with plenty of gore and action. ed to the comedy of the movie. them away to his lair. This myth ily reaches a point where Max, comedy and laughter. Some of Then you have Krampus himself, comes alive in the new Christmas our focal point in this movie that Krampus’ demented toy minions with his horrific zombified Santa horror movie “Krampus” which still believes in Santa, is basically include killer Gingerbread cook- face and his long pointed tongue is out in theaters now. bullied into giving up his belief ies, a Chucky like angel doll with that comes out at one point. The

Krampus starts out with in Santa, indirectly summoning a long saliva dripping tongue, a ending didn’t quite lead to the a ritual that most of us go through Krampus. child swallowing, gigantic jack big climax I was hoping for, but every year: the death match that The weird thing about in the box, and a bug-eyed creepy the story leads to one of comis black friday. After the black fri- the movie is that while it’s still teddy bear. In one of my favorite passion, comedy, and horror day showdown, the scene chang- a horror movie, it incorporates scenes in the movie, the mom was while giving life to one of Christes into a big, hectic family dinner. comedic values. In moments of being choked out with light cords mas’ most horrifying myths.

The dysfunctionality of the fam- horror and seriousness, you have by the demonic angel doll while

Mockingjay Part 2: a “Hello,” Adele is back, big time KAITLYN MARSH ruthlessly bleak ending Geyser Staff Writer

After a five year wait, Adele returns with new hit and with record breaking results, no tweets, posts, or blogs needed. The anticipated release of her album “25” sold 3.38 million copies in the first week. That is almost a million more than the previous record of “No Strings Attached” selling 2.4 million copies.

Adele is picking up

where she left off in her last album “21” with “Hello” her new hit single which connects back to the unnamed lover “Someone Like You” and a relationship she is having trouble putting in the past. The somber sound is played through the lyrics and vocal power she possesses.

“I’m making up with myself.

Making up for lost time. Making up for everything I ever did and never did.” Adele said, referring to “25”’s theme. The lyrics of “When We Were Young” display

what she has done as well as never did. As for “Send My Love (To Your New Lover)” where she sings about how they (she and her ex) should act their age. “We gotta let go of all of our ghosts, we both know we ain’t kids no more.”

From the soothing melody of “Remedy”, the stratospheric belting of “Sweetest Devotion”, to hypnotic snaps in “Water Under the Bridge.” Adele has taken powerful emotion, poetic lyrics, and expertly arranged songs to a new level.

A short time to go, in a movie theater near you

Elizabeth Banks as Effie Trinket and Jennifer Lawrence as Katniss Everdeen in “The Hunger Games: Mockingjay -- Part 2.” thriller that is sure to excite all.

EDEN JONES I loved the second installGeyser Staff Writer ment of Mockingjay! The movie “Nothing can prepare you was extremely well-done and the for the end.” The end of the acting was stellar. The special epic globally-acclaimed Hunger effects were incredible. I loved Games movie saga is sweeping the emotion in the movie- I rethe world by storm, and it is like peat, heart-wrenching. I was nothing you have ever imagined! emotionally dead inside for a

Rebel “Mockingjay” week afterward- it is unapoloKatniss Everdeen embarks on a getically, ruthlessly bleak, filled mission to kill Snow and bring with death and gore. Another peace to Panem that takes her thing that is well-done is the through the heart of Panem, the suspense. Nothing like a good Capitol, with a trusted squad of few minutes of silence followed soldiers including Peeta, who is with a BAM! Capitol mutt, in recovering from the Capitol’s your face! Explosion! Machine brainwashing. The team dodggun fire! You name it. I jumped es booby traps at every turn, at every little sound made by and nothing is safe from the anything for a week afterward.

Peacekeepers’ guns. As Katniss The one thing I didn’t weaves her way through the Caplike about the movie was the itol, her group of soldiers gets amount of carnage. Some smaller and smaller. Who will deaths are shown ad nauseum, make it to the President’s manand there is a lot of burning, sion? Will Katniss kill Snow? drowning, dead bodies, etc. I Will Peeta ever recover from can be a little sensitive to gore. the Capitol’s torture? The HunThe Hunger Games: Mockger Games: Mockingjay, part 2 ingjay, part 2 is rated PG-13 is a nail-biting, heart-wrenching according to MPAA standards.

Harrison Ford stars as Han Solo in the newest episode of Star Wars (The Force Awakens).

COLLIN MARTIN Geyser Staff Writer As of May 25, 1977,with the release of Star Wars, George Lucas has created a magical world for all ages ranging from the lightsaber wielding Jedi and Sith to the various clones armed with blaster rifles. Since the beginning, all of the films have been released in the month of May, but the new director J.J Abrams has broken this tradition with the upcoming December release of The Force Awakens.

Since The Force Awakens is a sequel to Return of the Jedi, actors Mark Hamill (Luke Skywalker, Harrison Ford (Han Solo), Carrie Fisher (Princess Leia), Peter Mayhew (Chewbacca), Anthony Daniels (C-3PO),

and Kenny Baker (R2-D2) will be playing key roles in the new film. New actors include Daisey Ridley (Rey), John Boyega (Finn), Adam Driver (Kylo Ren), and Game of Thrones star Gwendoline Christie (Captain Phasma).

The film takes place 30 years after the Battle on Endor.

Even though the second Death Star was destroyed along with the Emperor and Darth Vader, the Empire was far too massive to have been destroyed. Remaining survivors of the Empire have banded together to reform the First Order, and the Rebel Alliance was renamed the Resistance.

Information released on the movie shows that the scavenger Rey and a soldier, from the First Order, Finn ask for Han Solo to help them find Luke Skywalker

when the Jedi’s severed hand and lightsaber land on a desert planet. Along the way, Rey and Finn encounter members of the Resistance and a new Sith, Kylo Ren. Kylo is said to be a member of an order called the Knights of Ren, Also, the leader of the Resistance is Poe Dameron (Oscar Isaac) and is said to be the “best frickin pilot in the galaxy” said CinemaBlend, despite Obi Wan’s opinion of Anakin that “He was the best star pilot in the galaxy” A New Hope.

Fans are also interested in the new lightsaber design that Ren is weiling. The addition of the cross guard will hopefully protect the wielder from having their hand severed during combat, which is what happens multiple times throughout the saga.

THE GEYSER

December 18, 2015

5

News

New hospital provides improved facilities for town DESTINY INGRAM Geyser Staff Writer

Whether coming from the east or west, the new hospital, with its mansion like qualities, is a sight to drive by.

“It looks so cool,” commented junior Makayla Kelly on the outside appearance.

Pulling into the main entrance parking lot, warm lights from large picture windows give a welcoming glow.

This time of year, a tall bright Christmas tree can be seen.

After walking through the automatic doors, a long row of cubicle like desks greet visitors, as well as a small sitting area around a warm fireplace. To the right is an expansive waiting room.

Lining the walls are pictures from the Harvat family’s sheep operation that previously resided on the land. Right next to these photographs are paintings from elementary school kids.Straight forward from the entrance and down a hallway a small food court area is displayed very much like a hotel breakfast area. The high ceiling and large plate glass windows make the cafeteria a

comfortable, warm environment.

To the left of the entrance is a hallway and a grand staircase.

Down the hallway is a door that leads to the emergency room. The new ER has an enclosed garage for ambulance to protect patients from weather, two high level trauma centers, and is designed for easy expansion if needed.

Just at the top of the stairs is an information area with plush chairs and around another fireplace. On the second floor patient’s rooms and the surgical wing can be found Throughout the halls, beautiful pieces of artworks are hanging on walls. Paintings and drawings donated and bought from artists around the community.

The staff works hard to keep the facility running all hours, though it tends to be less busy at night than during the day. In the new facility there is a level four trauma emergency department, an ICU, Orthopedics and many other departments.

The placement of the new facility was placed near a flood zone which could lead to interesting events in the spring

Park High reboots website KAITLYN MARSH Geyser Staff Writer

Park High School has a new website! The school has decided to start from scratch. Jamie Ziebarth is designing a website that is easier to navigate, update and it is less time consuming with the host site Weebly.

Our staff have been working on this project for a few months now. According to guidance counselor Abby Kinsey the program is visually based using a “drag and drop” format and it also has basic templates giving each page a cleaner look.

In the new design all the staff have a page that contains their schedule, contact infor-

Photo By Matt Seifert

Livingston Healthcare opens its doors to the community in October at its new location east of town. and early summer time, but private and are almost twice the a personal recommendation many associates at the hospital size of those in the previous fa- from a school counselor, teacher, believe this is a simple prob- cility. The rooms include a pri- coach, or a non-family member lem that will be easy to handle. vate bathroom, a sleeper-sofa as well as written consent from As a patient coming to accommodate 24 hour family a parent or guardian and emerinto the hospital, the first stop and friend visitation policy, and gency contact information. Volwould be the registration area. patient lift system to help make unteers must commit to at least Then, a short wait in the wait- moving in and out of bed safe. one shift of four hours a week. ing room before proceeding to Career internships were The facility is a long distance the second level exam rooms. not available during the first se- from the high school, making it The exam rooms are smaller in mester. Junior volunteer positions more difficult for students withlength and width at the new fa- are available. Students must be out their own mode of transporcility, but they are a lot fancier. 16 at time of application, with tation to take career internships.

All 25 patient rooms are no exceptions, and should bring

mation, a short bio, and links to other websites or pages. English teacher Sarah Dahl has created her own site and linked it to her page. She plans to use her website for weekly updates on assignments, lessons and other classroom related activities.

Clubs, sports, and other activities each have their own page on the new site. Each page will have contact information for coaches or officials, a brief summary of their goals and achievements, a set of rules or expectations, and a schedule of their upcoming events.

After the New Year, when the website is officially launched, it will be at www.parkhigh.org.

Guidance News ERIN JOHNSON Geyser Staff Writer

A lot of important information is coming from your guidance office. The scholarship list is updated weekly, and many other financial aid opportunities are available.

Students can look for scholarships now. It can be difficult to know where to start searching for scholarships. ForPhoto by Kati McClish tunately, the counselors at Park Mrs. Mussetter works on the Photo by Erin Johnson High can help with that. Abby layout of her page.

Kinsey, a counselor, suggested Katlyn Gillen (foreground) asks a Reboot teacher Sarah Musthat students start by checking question at last Tuesday’s FAFSA setter, who has helped coordiout the scholarship box. She ex- night. nate work on the website, said plained that the list changes of“it’s been a lot of work but it ten, so it should be checked often. time to write you a letter, send will be worth it in the end.”

“Keep in mind NOT all Nation- an official transcript, etc.….”

Another important finanal or institutional scholarships are on our list,” warns Kinsey. cial aid opportunity for seniors Also, students should look at the is the FAFSA, or Free Applischolarship web pages and meet cation for Federal Student Aid. KATI MCCLISH extemporaneous and prepared know until somebody asks you,” with the financial aid office of That application is available Geyser Staff Writer speaking, and creed speaking. states McGrath. This club is al- the schools they are interested January 1, 2016. The first inStudents participating in Nov. 17, Park FFA held ways looking for new members, in. Scholarships can be found all formation night for the FAFSA activities at school have a busy a fundraiser known as the chili especially underclassmen. Mc- over the internet, but the counsel- was Dec.15. Kinsey said that schedule coming up. Mem- feed, raising $3,200. “It was Grath believes that this is a club ors can provide specific websites. the sooner your parents finish bers of the Park FFA must pre- a fantastic fundraiser, it re- for everyone and is hopeful for When you apply for a their taxes, the easier it will be pare for Speaking Districts this ally opened the FFA up to more new members in the future. scholarship, have all of the ma- to fill out the FAFSA. Another December, KMON, District the community,” commented Science Olympiad is a terials required. Some of these reminder is that the students inSales and Service, and Lew- FFA Advisor, Shane Stender. fall activity, having only one will/may include: official tran- terested in attending the Univeristown Mechanics this JanuLivingston BPA will at- competition per year, with the scripts, letters of recommenda- sity of Montana should finish ary, and more future events tend Regionals Jan. 13 in Wil- winner moving on to the nation- tion, ACT and/or SAT scores, a the FAFSA information the secwith dates yet to be determined. sall, participating in events such al level. This year, it was host- counselor report, and possibly ond week of February or sooner.

For more scholarThe Park FFA participat- as finance, business, and video ed Nov. 24 at Montana State an essay. Kinsey stated that “all ed in an event called John Deere production. 29 students will be University. This year, there of these take time to get so you ship, financial aid, or quesAg Expo Nov. 12-14. At this competing, ranging from fresh- were 13 events ranging from should plan at least 2-4 weeks tions, make an appointment competition members took part man to seniors. “They are high building airplanes to robots. ahead of time so someone has to meet with a counselor. in quiz bowl, horse evaluation, achievers and highly motivated FCCLA competed at dislivestock evaluation, meat eval- students,” says Lende. Students tricts Dec. 2 at Three Forks. Katuation, agronomy, mechanics and who qualify will compete at state. lyn Gillen ran for district pressales. The members placed fifth in Academic Olympiad re- ident and won. “It’s been a long senior mechanics, ninth in junior cently participated in their first journey trying to push my boundmechanics, tenth in horse evalua- event at Frenchtown in Octo- aries to run for district president tions, fifteenth in livestock evalu- ber. This club usually partici- and step out of my comfort zone,” ation, twenty sixth in agronomy, pates in about five competitions states Gillen. Livingston FCCLA twenty seventh in meats evalu- throughout the year, never placing held a dance workshop at the ation, and thirty sixth in sales. below third. They will compete competition. The point of disAt the districts competi- in Billings in January, and hope tricts this year was to raise awaretion, Dec. 7, members compet- to host a competition here in Feb- ness for bullying, Lead2Feed, and ed in parliamentary procedure, ruary. “You don’t know what you children with sensory disorders.

PHS activities continue on

6

The Grinch to be taught the values of love and family over materialistic things.

Recently, I visited Spokane, and while I was there I made my way to the mall. What happened next was very unexpected. On November 20, I walked into the mall and saw a Holiday debut. “Elves” were everywhere shoving bells into strangers’ hands, Santa was allowHOLLY ing kids to sit on his lap and take EVANS pictures, and the all too well known Disney musical “Frozen” was being choreographed in the heart of the “Deck the Halls with mall. Not only was Santa charging boughs of holly”...WHEN for pictures, but he was holding up IT’S DECEMBER! We all the escalator that I needed to use love the holidays, but too to meet up with my group. The much of a good thing gets old. elevators were highly trafficked As I stroll through stores, with people going through the the unmistakable sounds of sleigh same struggle as myself. Couples bells ring through the speakers, in were trying to get to the car gaNovember. Oh what fun it is to rage, employees were hurrying to be exploited by corporations who get back from their dinner breaks, use a loving, fun filled holiday and random citizens were just to drain the mass public of their not having a fun time in the mass money. Every year, they try and wave of people. Not to mention, shove the “Christmas spirit” into the food court lines were almost people’s lives sooner and sooner. as bad as a Black Friday sale line!

My biggest upset with startThe true holiday spirit should be ing Christmas in September is about families making cozy memthat there are many more holidays ories, friends reuniting, and feeling to celebrate in between that. By warm around the fire. It should the time the holidays are actunot be this materialistic modern ally here, I’m sick of them.

We interpretation with everyone shophave “Buddy the Elf” personping for months to prepare. Parents feel a pressure from society alities everywhere that need to and their own kids to go broke just CALM DOWN. Enjoy Hallowto make their Christmas “amaz- een, embrace Thanksgiving, and ing”. Our children of today need THEN be jolly about Christmas.

Cindy Lou

IN MY OPINION

IN MY OPINION

EDEN JONES

Drawing by Daniel Miller

The Grinch intimidating Cindy Lou from the classic cartoon “The Grinch”

What’s the deal, America?

CODY FINGERSON Geyser Staff Writer

Photo by Sheyenne Will

Above poses the Red Cup of contention.

A bright red coffee cup is held by millions, but disliked by thousands. The current controversy in the United States is redundant.

Over the color of a coffee cup...?

Are you kidding me, America?

This country has more serious problems than a coffee cup. There’s starvation, a massive refugee crisis, and homelessness which remains unfixed, and we are arguing over a red beverage container because it does not fit most definitions of “Christmas.”

So we bash the multi-million dollar company, Starbucks, because they “removed Christmas from their cups”. If you go to any ordinary coffee shop you are likely to get a white, brown, or even a less colorful cup. In my opinion, I would prefer a red cup more than just a plain boring cup.

According to Starbucks, the tradition of having a holiday -themed cup started in 1997 and typically make the tradition from white to red in the beginning of

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THE GEYSER

December 18, 2015

November, but this year, it was obviously different, even the shade of red this year is brighter. This controversy started with a man named Joshua Feuerstein, because he felt Starbucks couldn’t celebrate Christmas. “Do you realize that Starbucks wanted to take Christ and Christmas off of their brand new cups? In fact, do you know that Starbucks isn’t allowed to say Merry Christmas to their customers?” But I have news for you, Feuerstein, Starbucks can in fact celebrate Christmas, and they have since 1997, and it may be a good thing they removed some icons and a few words from their basic greetings because not every single person in this world celebrates Christmas. The color of the beverage container still doesn’t change the taste of the coffee. So what’s the deal, America?

This year, Christmas haters everywhere are having a veritable meltdown because of Kmart’s “Christmas-not-Christmas” commercial that aired in early September and the outpouring of premature Christmas spirit that followed. My question is why?

The sooner the better! I don’t think the world needs to postpone the Christmas season just because some people can’t handle hearing “Jingle Bells” more than once.

The thing about Christmas is that it cheers people up. My mood skyrockets whenever I walk downtown and see green boughs on the light posts or hear a Christmas song. The Christmas season is a time for celebration; a time for people to put aside the stresses of the rest of the year (I’m not saying Christmas isn’t stressful, but it’s a labor of love! And wouldn’t you rather worry about bringing holiday cheer to yourself and others

than about the next essay or your next math assignment?). Christmas cheer is infectious, and it’s awesome! It brings the world togetherbut we can’t experience this love for each other if there are loud haters freaking out about premature Christmas celebrations. I know it sounds silly and overly “zen,” but this hate is killing the love!

Christmas should be about love, not about retail prices and gifting stress. And why should we have to wait until after Thanksgiving to feel the love that Christmas brings?

I have so many awesome memories of the happiness I’ve had celebrating Christmas and the way it has brought my family together.

Whenever I think of Christmas, I think of early, early mornings with my extremely dysfunctional family, opening gifts for each other and sharing in the joy that Christmas brings. I personally don’t see any reason why we shouldn’t be able to experience this happiness and joy a little earlier. And. let’s face it, 2015 was pretty hard on us all. What with devastating events such as the ISIS attacks on Paris and other acts of terrorism, the increasing number of mass shootings, and acts of hate and racism abounding, and the ridiculousness of Donald Trump heaped on top of all that, I think the world could use a little extra Christmas cheer, this year especially.

Share the joy! Enjoy the love! Merry Christmas everyone!

Special Feature

Favorite Christmas Movies “Rudolph the RedNosed Reindeer” -Katlyn G. “Muppets’ Christmas Carol” -Sarah K.

“A Christmas Carol”the old, old one -Ms. Evanson

“White Christmas” -Mrs. Lende

Gift Giving Tips ALEX WILLIAMS Geyser Staff Writer

When shopping for a particular person, keep their hobbies and personality in mind if needing inspiration.

“Elf” -Devin B. “Fred Claus” -Eden J.

Gift Cards! This way they can pick out their own gift, and it’s exactly what they’ve been wanting!

Angel Fund helps for the holidays DREW HOLDEN Geyser Staff Writer

than 40 kids and families were able to enjoy a Christmas that otherAngel Fund, founded by wise would be unavailable to them. secretaries Melissa Cahoon and Unfortunately, this year, the Lisa Yarborough, is a commu- need has increased once more. nity oriented project, where More than 50 students are being students in need are provid- shopped for. If PHS students, beed with an enjoyable holiday. ing helped by Angel Fund have When Angel Fund first start- younger siblings, they will be ined, around 10 kids were being cluded in the shopping as well, shopped for, whereas now, the need so nobody is left out. This year, has expanded immensely. Cahoon Chico Hot Springs has generousand Yarborough accept monetary ly contributed to Angel Fund, to donations from any business or help support us in providing for the person willing to contribute. Last large amount of students and famyear, with the contributions from ilies in need. All contributions/doour community and parents, more nations that Angel Fund and those

Make a master gift list!

Write down all those that you need to get gifts for, so you don’t forget anyone.

Photo by Alex Williams

Angel fund founders Cahoon and Yarborough on Dec. 14th. involved receives are used to help students who would not normally get Christmas presents. Thanks to this program, children in the community are provided with holiday cheer and Christmas spirit.

Get personal. For someone close, gift them with something that will remind them of a memory you share.

“The Grinch” with Jim Carrey -Alex W. and Holly E.

“The Santa Clause”, with Tim Allen -Matt P.

December 18, 2015

THE GEYSER

Features

Protected and respected: the ASPEN project MADISON PATRICK ALEX WILLIAMS Geyser Staff Writers

“If you are having sex, but are not talking about it, you are not ready”.

This provocative statement was made by Jessica Morshed of ASPEN (Abuse Support Prevention Education Network) during a presentation to study hall students Nov 19. She was invited by Principal Lynne Scalia and supported by guidance counselors to further explain the meaning of sexual consent and to give a more in-depth view of what saying no looks like.

Many high school students may not be aware, but teens 1619 years of age are 3.5 times more likely than the general population to be victims of sexual assault, according to the Bureau of Justice Statistics National Crime Victimization Survey. This fact proves the importance of networks like Aspen to educate students that saying “no” to sexual advances is acceptable in every situation, even if already in a committed relationship with that person.

“Saying no to drugs is easier than saying no to sex, especially in a relationship where you care about that person,” said Health teacher Nancy Haglund, who arranged for Mor-

Photo by Madison Patrick Hughes

Jessica Morshed has made several presentations at PHS about relationships and sexual consent. shed to visit her health classes Dec. 15. Haglund also plans to incorporate the topic of healthy relationships into her curriculum throughout the next year.

Morshed showed her agreement with Haglund in her presentation when she expressed that if, while in a relationship or even when single, you must be persuaded to be intimate, then it’s non-consensual. This can include being mentally manipulated through pressure or guilt.

Some examples of this can be your partner reacting negatively with sadness, anger, or resentment when you say “No”. Your

partner may also make the false assumption that you owe thembecause you’re in a relationship, or they bought you a gift.

Education on sexual assault is not just important in a relationship but in everyday situations as well. You wouldn’t expect that four out of five cases of rape are committed by someone the victim knows. Not only are sexual assaults common amongst non- strangers, but 47% of sexual assaults are by a friend or an acquaintance, according to the Rape, Abuse, and Incest National Network (RAINN). Sexual assaults are becoming more seri-

ous with a total of about 293,000 cases each year. Sixty-eight percent of these cases are never even reported to the police (RAINN).

When Park High students were interviewed regarding the ASPEN Presentation, a majority agreed the information was helpful. “It was good stuff to go over.

I haven’t ever really learned about consent before, and people should be educated,” sophomore Brittany Austin explained. Several students described the presentation as “very awkward,” but important. “The presentation is not needed often, because the information is definitely memorable,”

8

sophomore Jakim Ricketts said.

Following the November presentation, ASPEN hosted a showing of the film “The Undetected Rapist” after school. Although sparsely attended, this event made an impact on several Park students, who now fully understand the severity of sexual assaults and the impact that they have on their peers. It is because of this that they have made plans to further the education on this issue, including beginning the discussion of rape culture at a younger age.

“Men didn’t think they were raping the women. They thought that the girls came to the party knowing it would happen... because it’s a party,” explained Colette Scaff when describing the film. Scaff is included in the group of students interested in furthering education on sexual assault.

Another vocal advocate for healthy relationships is Daysha Edewi, Buzz feed/ YouTube sensation who wrote a spoken word poem, “What I Wish Someone Told Me About Having Sex,” “You are a person. You have feelings and emotions that have a right to be protected and respected,” stated Edewi. Everyone has the power to say no, so be your own superhero.

Krakauer exposes issues of rape reporting, prosecution KATE LENDE Guest writer As a librarian, I sometimes make difficult decisions about which books to purchase for our library. In light of the 2014 challenge of Punkzilla, I think twice before selecting a book with overt sexual content. This is why I read Jon Krakauer’s newest book, Missoula: Rape and the Justice System in a College Town, as soon as it arrived. Having finished it and discussed it with my book club, I can say without reservation that it deserves an important place on our shelves at Park High.

Krakauer, most well-

known for his books Into Thin Air and Into the Wild, is no stranger to controversy. With this latest book, he has angered Griz fans, Missoula residents, the Missoula County Attorney’s office, and the police force. In the book, he reports on a series of rape allegations that rocked the Griz football team starting in 2010. Two cases, those of Beau Donaldson and Jordan Johnson, comprise the bulk of his narrative.

Depictions of rape in the book, both from interviews with the victims and court documents, are disturbing to read, but as both a parent and an educator, I think it’s a subject that cannot

Photo by Amazon.com

The cover for Jon Krakauer’s book, “Missoula,” which describes rape in Missoula and why rape is common in universities across the country.

be candy-coated or glossed over. Most of the offenses occur when alcohol is involved, and students tell of parties where freshmen girls are targeted as victims when they become intoxicated.

The recent presentation by ASPEN, referenced in the Geyser article on this page, just scratches the surface of what can happen when consent is misunderstood or ignored. In reading Missoula, you get a more complete picture of what happens on college campuses across the nation, and the very real dangers this year’s seniors will face when they venture off into life after high school.

Krakauer sheds light on

many facets of a rape investigation, including the impact on the victim who reports the crime to the university or the police. His account draws from the Department of Justice investigation of 350 sexual assaults reported to the Missoula police between January 2008 and May 2012, few of which were handled properly.

I feel this is an important book for both men and women to read, whether or not they plan to attend college. Acquaintance rape is not confined to frat parties and dorm rooms, and those who take the time to better understand this issue will (I hope) avoid becoming a victim or perpetrator themselves.

“Faith County” performance by Park High staff

Photo by Matthew Polillo

The cast of “Faith County” poses Saturday night just before their performance

DON CUMMINS Geyser Staff Writer

The play, “Faith County,” enacted by the faculty of Park High on Nov. 20-21, was a great success. For the audience, it was incredibly fun to see the teachers in a different light. The characters are an exaggerated representation of members of a small backwards

community. Director Lynnette Evanson states that it was the first time that faculty showed an interest and was grateful for the suggestion that the staff do a play.

The story is set in a small community somewhere in the middle of nowhere in the South,

and the faculty had to find their southern accents. Sarah Mussetter played Mildred, a bossy, know-it-all who wasn’t afraid to speak her mind. Lynne Perry played RuthAnn, a very conservative moral majority leader.

Regina Wood played the town floozy, a woman with “commitment issues,” Faye McFaye.

Ardis Steinmetz played Gladys, the elderly and much loved piano player who couldn’t play sober, which was never a problem. The very pregnant Violet Farkle was played by Abby Kinsey on Friday night and by Lynne Scalia on Saturday. Mrs. Dahl played the local hairdresser and bride, Naomi Farkle. Her reluctant fiancé, Luther, was played by Mr. Geering.

Bill Shannon was the pig farmer, Delbert, recipient of the unwanted attentions of Faye McFaye.

Bubba Bedford, the newly minted “parson” who received his “de-

gree” from the back of the Popular Mechanics magazine, was played by Shane Stender. Evanson, of course, was the director.

This experience was a new and bonding opportunity for many of the staff. Perry states that even though she’s been around theater with her children, she had never taken the stage before.

Several mentioned that it was outside their comfort zone and a way to find a new part of themselves and growing experience.

The play raised $2,100,

which was earmarked for the theater, to fund the spring musical.

The theater students gave their time to usher and serve refreshments. They served lemonade, coffee, pie, and caramel apples for a small donation. The faculty provided their own costumes and the set was created with very little cost, so the money all goes to the benefit of the theater. Everyone agrees that the faculty show was a great success, and we look forward to seeing more faculty “stars” in the future.

THE GEYSER

December 18, 2015

Arts

9

Davis wins artist’s choice award by a landslide

AVA NELSON Geyser Staff Writer

It is that time of year again; snow, hot cocoa, skiing, basketball games, and most important- student art shows.

The art show for this quarter was held December 14th, and over 40 students participated. Just one of the four public showings is held every year before Christmas break, honoring talented teens that spend weeks putting a masterpiece together.

There will be graphite drawings, paintings, oil pastels, scratch boards, pottery, and photography.

Students will be able to vote on their classmates and decide which piece they like best.

The person that receives the most

votes will be given ‘Artist Choice Award’ and will be recognized for their hard work and dedication.

What is very creative about this process is each student involved in an art class is given two slips of paper to write positive comments to people on their artwork. Students are also given the opportunity (and are encouraged) to write more than two comments. When the show is over, the comments and artwork is given back to the one who created it. Because there are many talented artists in our school, the positive comments make it so no artist is unrecognized.

The Artist Choice Award for December, 2015 goes to Holly Davis. “The votes are close every

Photo by Ava Nelson

Senior and art show winner Holly Davis shows her award winning artwork in the art wing. The art students selected Davis’ work as their favorite among a variety of other students’ artwork Dec. 14.

year, but Holly’s won by a lot of votes. This is the first time that has happened in over 15 years,” states Huntzinger. There were six honorable mentions that were given to Alex Williams, Emilee Coleman, Elana Boise, and Charley Barlow. Daniel Miller received two of those honorable mentions.

Davis has received honorable mentions in the past, but this is her first time winning Artist Choice Award. “I’m sort of in disbelief, it’s a weird feeling-happy though- I guess it hasn’t hit me that I actually won yet,” stated Davis. The senior also spent over 50 hours on her winning piece.

The art show is a great way for students and parents to bond and enjoy the talent we have in our school.

Sleigh bells ring, are you listenin’? In the lane...

Photo by Eden Jones

Members of the Park High chamber choir perform their annual Christmas concert Dec. 14. December is a busy month for the choir program with multiple Christmas performances including the annual depot tree lighting, performing at Livingston’s annual Christmas Stroll, and various other performances.

DESTINY INGRAM Geyser Staff Writer

The performing arts department is preparing for their second concert of the year.

Choir had their second concert on Monday December 14, and band played on the 17th.

The band plans on playing two or three songs such as “Sleigh Ride”

and

other Christmas songs.

As well as songs, the band will be proudly displaying the new uniform. Recently, they were donated $10,000 to add to their previous amount of $5,000. This brings them closer to the goal, though they still need $20,000.

To continue with the Christmas theme, groups of two or three band members played

during the Christmas stroll on December 4 at the senior center.

The band’s trip to Spokane at the end of November had no negative effect on the preparation for the concert. The educational workshops with professors were great for the members. All together the trip was very successful.

The choir also had a full schedule this month. Chamber choir participated in the Christmas stroll as well as the depot tree lighting on December 9 and a small walk through the senior center on 17th.

The annual depot tree lighting had a light for every person who passed away this year. The chamber choir sang winter songs during the lighting and throughout the evening, but not necessarily Christmas

Whoo-hoo for EWU ERIN JOHNSON Geyser Staff Writer

Buy a Yearbook NOW at yearbookforever.com Prices go up January 1st.

Park High’s two jazz ensembles attended the Eastern Washington University Jazz Dialogue in Cheney Washington Nov. 19 20.

On the evening of Nov. 19, the students attended clinics hosted by members of the modern jazz group, “Snarky Puppy.”

Students learned some tips about their individual instruments, improvising, and learning how to become better jazz musicians.

The next day, the two groups had opportunities to perform their music. The Jazz Ensemble, or the upper band, performed first. After the performance, a pro-

Photo by Devin Brandal

Selected Park High band students and director Garrett Stannard fill the Community Senior Center with Christmas tunes such as “Joy to the World” and others during the Christmas Stroll Dec. 5. songs due to religious purposes.

Co-president Brenner Pittman, who has been singing in chamber choir for three years, has sung at the senior center each year. Other students, such as Alan Nelson, really enjoy visiting the seniors of the community and spreading Christmas joy.

As well as these activities, the chamber choir sang multiple times at Rib and Chop for different company Christmas parties.

Nelson compared ERIN JOHNSON Christmas time in the choir department with a quote from Geyser Staff Writer Buddy the Elf, “the best way The John and Roseto spread Christmas cheer is mary Bashor Scholarship is a singing loud for all to hear.” $1,000 award for Park High The performing students who intend to maarts department has worked jor in art or art education at hard to bring holiday cheer Montana State University. around the community.

An art walk was held September 15th through October 10th to raise money for this scholarship. Close to 200 original paintings were donated from fessional musician critiqued the the private collection of John and group. Rep Jazz performed later, Rosemary Bashor to be shown. and was critiqued by a different Interested students must professional. Throughout the day, be applying for a four-year-dethe students had the opportunity to gree at Montana State Univergo on a campus tour, led by EWU alumni and band director Garrett sity, have a cumulative GPA of Stannard, as well as attend more at least 2.75, and a portfolio. clinics hosted by the professional The applicant must answer five musicians featured in the dialogue. questions, as well as submit a Finally, the students witletter of recommendation and nessed EWU’s jazz band and at least ten examples of the Snarky Puppy in concert. Stanstudent’s artwork. Students are nard has been cultivating a love asked to submit photographs or for Snarky Puppy in the hearts scans of the artwork. The appliof his students, so this concert cation is due March first, and a was a special opportunity. After selection committee will select the concert, many students were the scholarship recipient, who able to meet the members of the group, and received autographs. will be notified by April first.

Bashor Scholarship for the arts

THE GEYSER

December 18, 2015

News

Movies filmed in Livingston: “Walking Out” AVA NELSON Geyser Staff Writer

Livingston is known for its small town charm and hospitality. No wonder this place is becoming the new hot spot for a movie set.

What is even more interesting is the local stars in the midst of it all. In fact, students and faculty have been involved as character doubles, extras, and on the scene spectators for many films involving the Livingston area.

Jaydon O’Hair, a sophomore, played the double for the main character in “Walking Out.” This film was based on the short story ‘Walking Out’ by Livingston author David Quammen. A city boy comes to visit his father all the way from Chicago. The father and son decide to go on a moose hunt, and get an early start into the Montana wilderness. The story continues with suspense and life risking obstacles the father and son face together; challenging them with trust and survival of the fittest.

This short story is well known, and the film is bound to follow

right behind it with the real life environment and props used to create a unique and realistic visual.

O’Hair says the movie is on break for the holidays, but everyone will be back in January to start up again. O’Hair plays a double for the main character “He’s a little taller than me, a senior from Los Angeles I think,” says O’Hair.

The movie is filmed at three locations: Swingly Road, Exit 319 on Bozeman pass, and the O’Hair ranch. Being the main character’s double seems like a hard job, but O’Hair enjoys the time on set. “It’s kinda cool; I get to go in for wardrobe, and they dress me all up,” he said. O’Hair also spoke about the time he spent with Bella, the bear on set who plays a huge role in the climax of the film. “Bella is younger, she’s smart though, she even knows how to wave,” he said, smiling as he remembered the time he spent with the cub last March. “Walking Out” will be released in 2016.

The next big hit “Certain Women” was shot around the Livingston and Clyde Park area in March and April of 2015. Kel-

ly Reichardt is the director and writer of the film. It focuses on three very different lives in Montana. A cowboy, married couple, and lawyer have intersecting paths with both good and bad situations intermingled between.

It looks like they have a powerful cast, with lead roles being played by Kristen Stewart, Michelle Williams, and Laura Dern. Stewart has starred in many films, but is most known for “The Twilight Series”. Williams was born in Kalispell, MT and became a star at a young age; she may be recognized from her lead role in the film “Brokeback Mountain”.

Dern was born into stardom and soon became a star herself as she has been involved in well-known films like “Jurassic Park” and also plays the mother in “The Fault in our Stars.”

“Certain Women” will premiere at the 2016 Sundance Festival next month. This will be the sixth film Reichardt has shown at the Sundance Festival.

Lynnette Evanson and Andrew Reichert played extras in the film. They were background

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Photo Courtesy of Jaydon O’Hair

Sophomore Jaydon O’Hair stars in new film “Walking Out” as a double-body showing special effects of his mangled hand. shoppers at the Gallatin Mall in Bozeman. There were several takes in which they had to walk behind the main character, Laura Dern as she sat in the food court. “The best part of the day was watching an Indian dance sequence and experiencing both being filmed and experiencing the Indian dance,” says Evanson.

O’Hair and Evanson both

agreed that they had a great experience on set, though they were in two completely different atmospheres. The amount of effort and time put into making movies is mind boggling, but the relationships built and greatness that comes from the finished piece is fascinating, especially when experiencing a dose of stardom in a small town.

are aware of it and value it.”

The current student council officers are Amber Fowlie as President, Maisie Kirn as Vice President, Elana Boise as Secretary, and Eden Jones as Treasurer. Representatives for the individual classes are Karl Molina, Kaitlyn Marsh, Lexi Speas, Ellie Mickelson, Nick Feldtman, Madi Fairchild, Beth Hewey, Buddy Murphy, Clara Jones, and Aurora Boise.

“We’re trying to best suit the educational change for 2015,” commented Tennant.

“It’s a change in efficiency and a change in efficacy.” The change

has been mainly in the elected positions and in the candidates.

“Student council is being run by students who are more motivated and more driven,” Tennant stated.

Student council is looking to perform more service projects and to make performing service projects possible for other students at Park High. They are currently tackling the creation of a recycling program within the school- “Student council is environmentally-friendly!” proclaimed president Amber Fowlie at a meeting.

Student council meets Mondays after school in D-4, and everyone is welcome.

Redesign of Student Council

Photo by Eden Jones

PHS Senior Devin Brandal models a Student Council jacket for a reference to upcoming staff members at Student Council meeting Dec. 7.

EDEN JONES Geyser Staff Writer Do you know how your Student Council is set up? Do you know how your school’s government works? The answer to these questions from many Park High students is no. Do you know who

your student representatives are?

Student Council is working hard to get its name out there, and a part of this campaign is the internal redesign of student council.

The program has been in place since the early 1900s, and has undergone many changes over the years. This year, an in-

formal, temporary election of officers has taken place within student council, and school-wide elections for next year will take place in late May of this year.

Miya Tennant, student council advisor, stated, “We’re looking at how to bring back student council in a way that students

Ranger PRIDE DEJA KANT Geyser Staff Writer

while not just surviving, but thriving.” He had four reasons This year, Park High is in- for voting for Little. He is very troducing “Ranger PRIDE” to the responsible with his schoolstudents. The acronym “PRIDE” work, especially when getting stands for perseverance, respect, it in after being absent. He alintegrity, discipline, and excel- ways has smile on his face. And lence. Every few advisory pe- lastly, Little shows good work riods, teachers will talk about ethic in everything he does.

Little believes that you the next word. They started with have to look beyond and see perseverance. Webster’s dictiothe big picture in order to get nary defines this as persisting through something, to persevere, in spite of counter influences, he states “sometimes we become opposition, or discouragement. selfish when we are doing The teachers took an something, and that is why we anonymous vote one day at struggle when pulling through.” their faculty meeting, and winning by one vote, Dalton Little There were many other was chosen as our “P” student. people nominated who should To Gannon, “Perseverance be mentioned. Emily Forsythe, means to overcome obstacles Kendyl Pierson, Colette Schaf,

Photo by Deja Kant

Dalton Little was nominated as the ‘Perseverance’ student by PHS staff.

Sam Saarel, Larissa Saarel, Deon Gillen, Meghan Gibson, Angel Yarnell, Jessica Boyle, Alex Williams, Ben Engbers, and many others around the school were also named by teachers for perserverance.

11 New coach takes helm of varsity boys basketball THE GEYSER

December 18, 2015

Sports

JORDAN LEHRER Geyser Staff Writer There has been confusion and excitement around the topic of the hiring of the new varsity boys basketball coach. Layne Glaus, known to some at Park High as the athletic trainer, joins the staff as head coach this year.

Activities Director Regina Wood said of Glaus, “He brings a compassion for the game, excitement, a competitive edge, and the ability to hopefully build a program.”

She added, “He had a commitment to the players before he was guaranteed the coaching job and that shows his real commitment to the kids.”

Sophomore Rydell Floyd, a second year varsity player, said “Now we run a lot more than we ever have. With Coach Glaus, we are held at a higher standard. We are in practices four hours a day, and on top of that we lift, and then watch our film from the week before, so it’s a process that has to include extreme dedication.”

Floyd was then asked how he feels about Glaus getting the coaching job, and he said, “It was well-earned. He put in a lot of work with the players in the off season, and even when not our coach he still put in time with us. He definitely

Coach Layne Glaus gives insight to his team during a timeout against Laurel on Saturday

Photo by Tori Guenzler

has a great understanding and love for the game. Last of all, he promised new jerseys.”

Coach Glaus has been ecstatic about the topic, which he shows through his love for the game. He has the gym open on a nightly basis and the weight room open three mornings a week.

Coach Glaus shows the true value that high school athletics can really have on a participant when he said, “First off, the key to

a successful experience should be measured by the quality of what each player takes away from their high school basketball career.”

“Do the characteristics gained during the athlete’s time as a player positively effect that athlete and the people around him/her moving forward in life?

If the answer is yes, then the coach has done his job,” he said.

RANGER BOYS UPCOMING HOME GAMES

Home Games Dec. 22 vs. Beaverhead County at 5:30 p.m.

January 8 vs. Belgrade at 7:30 p.m.

January 15 vs. Fergus at 6 p.m.

Ranger wrestlers hit the mats against CMR in Great Falls this weekend; home meet is Jan. 5 SHEYENNE WILL Geyser Staff Writer Park High wrestlers are hitting the mat and conditioning twice a day to get in shape and ready for tournaments.

In the morning starting at 6 am, they work on conditioning, and after school, they work on technique.

Freshman Adam Bankert, who took first place in the tournament Dec. 5 at Belgrade, says to win, “I work hard, keep a positive

attitude, and do what you’re told.”

He has been wrestling for ten years in club wrestling.

He enjoys wrestling because you’re in control of whether you win or lose, as opposed to football or other sports, where you win/ lose as a team.

Since last year, many of the wrestlers graduated, so the wrestlers this season are fairly new. There are about eight boys on the team, two of whom are seniors. Jesson and Cade Mcomber are the seniors. Jesson is hop-

ing to go far at state this year on Feb. 12 and 13 in Billings.

The goals this season for the team is for everyone to get better and improve their skill levels.

They also hope to have as many members as possible qualify for the divisional and state tournament at the end of the year.

Catch the Ranger wrestlers in action after break at the next home meet, January 5 at 6 p.m.

They will compete against against Columbus, Lone Peak, and Whitehall.

Adam Bankert and Tyler Laverty do handstands during Monday night’s practice. The team is competing at CM Russell High School today.

New JV girls coach at Park High is familiar face ZOE RANDALL Geyser Staff Writer

Photo by Don Cummins

Coach Randy Mogen uses the scientific method to analyze the dribbling drills. Sophomore Larissa Saarel is in the background.

As the 2015-16 basketball season started, the Park High Lady Rangers warmly welcomed a new junior varsity coach, science teacher Randy Mogen. With basketball kicking off, the girls and the coaching staff have high expectations for the season ahead.

“Working together is really going to help with the success rate of our team,” stated sophomore Isabel Davis.

“I am hoping for more wins than losses this season,” Mogen stated. Unity and team-

work seem to be common goals for the junior varsity.

“A good coach brings unity and patience, I’m excited to see how our coach brings this team together,” stated another junior varsity player. According to the new coach, coaching requires love and knowledge for the game, enthusiasm, and effort. Mogen has many years of coaching experience and last worked with the boys Junior Varsity five years ago.

Although it has been awhile since he has last coached, Mogen plans to create a culture where the team pushes each other to make the program as a whole better.

“We are going to work hard and play hard. I think that we need to deny ourselves and put the team first,” Mogen said.

As many people know, this is not Mogen’s first season coaching basketball. Several aspects played into his coaching return.

The head coach, Scott Coleman, asked Mogen to think about coaching the JV girls basketball team. After some thought, Mogen decided that his coaching career was not over. During a practice, Mogen mentioned that he felt that because his children are done with high school athletics, coaching could come back into the picture.

THE GEYSER

December 18, 2015

Winter Sports Feature

12

Tips for a fun-filled Christmas Vacation MADISON PATRICK Geyser Staff Writer Winter is sweeping in, so grab your coats, hats, and snow pants and join Montana’s classical, and exciting winter recreational sports.

Many fun winter activities such as sledding, ice skating, snowshoeing, cross country skiing, and dog sledding occur during this long Montana winter.

In Livingston, there are multiple locations and tips for these wonderful, and exciting activities.

By 9th Street Island, there is a little sledding hill that will fill you with excitement of soaring down the hill. The hill is the perfect size for young kids to have a great time outdoors. If you are looking for some more serious sledding, just head down to Paradise Valley and pick any hill that is not privately owned or filled

Photo by Andrew Holden

The Livingston Lagoon is covered in ice and prepared for ice skaters. with trees. Mill Creek and Suce up for the community. The ice Creek are some examples of some skating rink is decent size and great locations to bring your sled nice to have around. The pond is and enjoy the snow. Some tips to another great place to bring your keep in mind when heading out to skates and enjoy the ice. The lago sledding would include bring- goon is even big enough to play a ing warm clothing, your fastest game of hockey. Ice skating is a sled, friends,and a good attitude. great way to spend the day slipEvery winter, Livingston ping on the ice and laughing with has a small ice skating rink put your friends. Sometimes it may

take a while to get the hang of the slippery surface, so some butt padding might come in handy.

Another popular winter activity includes snowshoeing and cross country skiing. These two sports will lead you deep into the mountains and surrounded by the beautiful mountains of Paradise Valley. Not only will Cross country skiing and snowshoeing lead to some of Montana’s most beautiful scenery, but it will give your body a great daily exercise as well. Also, Yellowstone Park contains many trails that would be great for cross country skiing or snowshoeing. Trails such as Mill Creek and deep creek are also great places to explore cross country skiing and snowshoeing. A local Livingston business, Timber Trails, rents cross country skis and snowshoes to the public. Prices are $25 a day for ski packages and $15 a day for their snowshoe packages.

At Chico Resort, dog sledding tours are offered to the public. Dog sledding will fill you with new memories and a very different experience. Dog sledding is available from Thanksgiving until late March. Depending on the type of dog sled you choose, prices can range anywhere from $125-$450, but children are half the standard rate, and children under 3 are free. One of Montana’s mushers will guide you on your dog sled adventure and even pack a lunch for your group. So if you are looking for a fun winter activity that you more than likely have not tried before, check out Chico for some dog sledding fun.

Montana may have long and dreary winters, but if you look out your back door there is more to do than you make think. There are plenty of outdoor recreational winter sports to try out, and do not forget to have fun while you’re at it.

Snowmobiling excursion STERLING LAY Geyser Staff Writer

As soon as the weather begins to turn and the promise of a deep pack awaits, several kids throughout Park High dream of tearing up the fresh powder. One of these people is Buck Spallone.

He lives for the thrill of tearing up and down mountains on his 2015 Ski Doo 800 E-Tec. For anyone who doesn’t know, this sled can go up to 80 miles per hour

on flat ground and can traverse almost any slope it encounters.

When asked where Spallone liked to ride, he said “Cooke City by far has the best and deepest snow while also providing a dope terrain to shred the gnarly powder.”

While doing research, it became clear that most skilled riders do it not only sled for the fun but to also experience an intense adrenaline rush. The machines under foot have so much power and speed that

when harnessed correctly, can give the rider an ultimate sense of control and inner peace.

With such a sport also comes a severe warning: these mountains and sleds can be very dangerous. Last year alone, 32 people died from either wrecking severely or being buried in an avalanche.

Overall, snowmobiling can either be the time of your life when using skills correctly or the end of your life if being careless or falling prey to mother nature.

Photo courtesy of Rich Spallone

Buck Spallone does a trick during a snowmobiling trip last season.

Gregory has hit the slopes since age 3

Photo courtesy of Peter Gregory

Peter Gregory nails a back flip while skiing last year at Bridger Bowl.

MATT SEIFERT Geyser Staff Writer Peter Gregory started skiing when he was three years old and has been hooked ever since.

You might have seen him throwing down in the park at Bridger Bowl in his lime green saga coat.

When I asked Gregory what started his career in this winter sport, he replied, “Well my parents started me on skis when I was three years old. Back then I skied just down the bunny hill

and found an obsession to hitting jumps.” Peter now competes with the Bridger Bowl terrain park team. The usual tricks you will see being shown off in the park consists of backflips, corks, 360’s, and a mix of many other things on the rails and boxes.

Peter said, “Skiing is super fun.

That’s really the biggest thing.

And when you land new tricks it feels great, and you get stoked.”

That’s how Gregory stays motivated to ski. Peter can do a plethora of tricks including flips,

corks, spins, flats, switch tricks, and also box and rail tricks.

Gregory living near a ski hill has its advantages. “Being so close to Bridger Bowl and Big Sky it makes it super convenient to drive out and go skiing.”

Bridger Bowl is only a mere 30-50 minutes away from Livingston and Big Sky is only about 1 hour to 1.5 hours away.

Gregory said,“the sport has changed so drastically since I started it’s amazing. Kids younger than me are starting to stomp bigger tricks and kids are advancing in the sport quicker. Also there are more tricks coming out and that forces you to learn them faster; not knowing how it will go before hand.”

Gregory also gave us some good advice. “If you’re thinking about starting out in the park, make sure you have twin tip skis, and also you need to want to get into the sport. If you’re not motivated then you won’t really go too far and progress easily in this sport.”

Skiing is a lifelong sport that you can participate in at any age. The biggest factor to progress, is desire. Park skiing is especially difficult because you have to master aerial tricks, balance on slippery two inch wide rails while spinning and turning on them, and also balancing on boxes of varying widths while spinning, popping and doing a variety of tricks.

Photo courtesy of Sam Saarel

Sam Saarel hits jump last year while skiing in town.

Local kid on the rise MATT SEIFERT Geyser Staff Writer

Sam Saarel started skiing at age four. He was then later put into a BSF program at Bridger Bowl. As he progressed through the ranks, he has loved skiing ever since. When asked “what keeps you motivated?” he replied, “You get to be out there on the slopes early in the morning. It’s really fun, and you can make lots of new friends”.

Saarel loves to ski at his house in the mountains when it’s too hard to get to the ski area. He

said, “living in the mountains and seeing the snow every day makes me want to ski even more. The sport has changed so drastically since I started, Saarel continued, “people have become more competitive. From being in a U 14-16 group, I was the youngest boy in my age group.” He also had some good advice to give the beginners of not only racers but recreational skiers too. “Train hard, do your best, ski fast, and always go out of your comfort zone, because that will make you realize and push your limits to get better.”