THE GEYSER April 23, 2018
Issue 5
Park High School
Livingston, Montana
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Pages 4-5: Guns: Walkouts, Regulations, and Opinions Pages 6-7: Students Who Invest Pages 8-9: The History and Changes of PHS Page 15: New Track and Softball Coaches
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In This Issue
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na Journal nta i Mo ation Associa sm c t i on u Ed
#ENOUGH Students gather outside Park High on March 14 for 17 minutes to participate in the National School Walkout. Photo By Alex Centofanti
What’s Inside 2
April 23, 2018
Table of Contents 3 Clubs
World Quest Recap National Honor Society Peer Tutoring FFA Districts & State Results BPA State Recap
4 & 5 History of PHS Teachers: Then & Now Timeline of Park High’s History 6 & 7 Investing Students at PHS That Invest How to Start Investing Early Advice From Investment Advisor 8 & 9 Guns Role of Guns In Montana Local Protests and Meetings Changes in Local and School Regulations 10 & 11 Pods D-Pod Computer Lab Closed Before School Opinions on Pod Rules 12 & 13 Wolves Negatives of Wolves in Paradise Valley Wolves Help Manage Wildlife 14 Makeup Overview Opinions on Wearing Makeup How Makeup Affects Yourself and Others 15 Sports New Track Coaching Staff New Softball Coach 16 Pets
Park Students Proud of Their Pets Exotic Pets
Brought To You By Editor-in-Chief: Jaia Wagman & Talia Hansen Sports Editor: John Waddell Entertainment Editor: Lily DeYoung Business Manager: Lane Marshall Opinion Editor: Alex Centofanti Staff Writers: Claire Brown, Nicholas Burda, Rydell Floyd, Sophie Cajune, Madison Carroll, Hannah Dailey, Denie Hampson, Thaddeus Hampson, Miranda Hard, Matthew Netley, Jaydon O’Hair, Gavin Volk Faculty Advisers: Kate Lende and Lynnette Evanson
Photo By Vicki Petry
The Park High Choir Class celebrates the $10,000 grant they received from a new television show called “Rise.” proving the rec plex stage, while also including curtains, for more efficient performances. The rec BY JOHN WADDELL plex is not an ideal area for performing and the Geyser Staff Writer Park High’s theatre program found out in $10,000 will be a big help for those improvements. Park High School’s student theatre perlate February that they had won a $10,000 grant formances have been a great way for local from a new television show called Rise featured students to experience life changing events. on NBC. It focuses on theatre programs and how Many students have went on to pursue dethey can help students cope with personal hurdles. grees and experiences in theatre performance. The show gave out 50 grants of $10,000, and Park Every year Park High produces a school High was lucky enough to receive one of them. musical, and this year it is Camelot. Camelot Izzy Petry was a huge part of why our features the legend of King Arthur, Guinevschool was able to earn a grant, as she submitted ere, Lancelot, and the Knights of the Round a video to the program. The video consisted of Table. Park High students will don armor and interviews of two students and the impact that play parts of medieval chivalry, magic and no theatre has on them, as well as how much of a good play is complete without a love story. difference it makes in their lives. The show premiered on March 13. Rise is an NBC TV series Camelot will run from May 4 to May 20 with about students who have found their unique voice showings on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday afin performance and theatre, they may struggle ternoons. There will be a time reserved for all with academic or athletic issues as well as home other PHS students not performing to see the issues but the theatre has been something that play during school hours. There are approxisaves them. PHS student Sam Saarel helped film mately 45 students participating in the play. Stua video here at PHS that will later on be sub- dents, as well as all of the Livingston communimitted to the show in hope of being featured. ty look forward to another stellar performance. With the money received, the school plans on im-
Page 3 Briefs
April 23, 2018 TALIA HANSEN Geyser Staff Writer
FFA goes to State
Park High FFA attended the state FFA convention in Billings during the first weekend in April. Shane Stender took 22 students to compete in several different agricultural categories, such as livestock judging, agronomy, FBM, mechanics, and sales. Mechanics took 11th place out of 64 teams. Livestock took 12th out of 78 teams. Sales, Photo Courtesy of Shane Stender FBM, and sales all did good and Park High FFA members stand in front of the Convention Center were all in the top 40. before their State competitions.
BPA’s next stop is Dallas, Texas
JAIA WAGMAN Geyser Staff Writer
On March 9-12, five of the Business Professionals of America members qualified at the State Leadership conference in Billings, Montana. During the weekend, the conference was made up of competing in their individual or team events, multiple workshops they could attend, a dance, and a concluding awards ceremony. The group was proud to come back home and announce their multiple successes. Sam and Larissa Saarel placed 1st for Video Production Team, and Larissa herself placed 2nd for Digital Media Production. Kaylyn Kuehn placed 9th for Fundamental Desktop Publishing, 5th for Digital Publishing and 3rd for Graphic Design Promotion.
Hannah Harshbarger placed 6th in Economic Research, 6th in Global Marketing Team with Madison Montoya and Milena Voyich, and 2nd in Entrepreneurship. Jaia Wagman placed 8th in Small Business Management team with Isabel Davis and Ethan Johnson, and 2nd in Digital Publishing. Out of all of these wins, five members, Sam Saarel, Larissa Saarel, Hannah Harshbarger, Kaylyn Kuehn, and Jaia Wagman, will be moving forward to compete in the National Leadership Conference. Nationals will be held in Dallas Texas on May 9-12 and advisor Reid Lende says that over his past three years of leading the BPA team, he has never been to Nationals and is excited for this year to be his first.
While they were down there, many of the students participated in a day of service where they went around and cleaned up the city of Billings. Also, there were many leadership workshops for students to attend, as well as convention sessions every evening that consist of presentations from guest speakers, official officer addresses, and awards ceremonies. In the past, Park has come out in the top 10 but this year we were looking to increase that num-
ber and the competition is fierce. The mechanics team of Dalton Booth, Morgan Nevin, TJ Weimar, and Mitchell Creason have been practicing twice a week and Stender believes they have a great shot of making Park proud. In conclusion, Park FFA did well during state. Our chapter won the Hall of Chapters Board and received a $200 check to help pay to take it to the national FFA convention in Indianapolis this fall.
The 2018 World Quest Results GAVIN VOLK Geyser Staff Writer
Six Park High students joined teams from across the state in Missoula last month to compete in World Quest 2018. This event, overseen by Bill Shannon, encourages knowledge of current events, breaking news, and various other international topics. Horrible weather conditions delayed the team’s departure by four hours, causing the group of Jonathan Noble, Ellie Mickleson, Eva Molina, Dana Baskett, Reagan Smith, and Gabe Nohl to be that much more alert. The Montana World Affairs Council sponsors the program, and simultaneously ignites the competition by sending out 12 different categories to all of the various teams a couple months before the trip. Park’s team met monthly leading up to the competition, to prepare for the upcoming events.
One category at the event was “The Peacebuilding Toolkit,” in which certain topics regarding conflict and possible positive outcomes are discussed. There were a variety of controversial sub-topics that were associated with questions. The various teams then had to collaborate to find a solution, within the time limit. There was a very good turnout for this event and the camaraderie between the students was overall upbeat and enjoyable. It brought together yearning minds who received a small taste of international problem solving on a small scale. Students heard from ambassadors to places like China (Max Baucus) Kuwait, and Senegal (Michael Johnson), were there including some foreign students from Brazil, China, and Egypt. Gardiner High School won the competition and will represent Montana at the national competition in Washington, D.C. April 27-28.
National Honor Society; what leadership looks like work independently or get help. We have even opened up peer tutoring National Honor Society is to the middle schoolers,” Science an organization that is nationally teacher and NHS adviser Becky observed. This organization Ayler said. Some of their service consist of students who possess work is also within the communicertain trait, such as 3.5 GPA or ty. Last year the held a toy drive for higher. The members of the Na- Aspen to give to battered families. tional Honor Society are chosen This year, they are making goodby being exlempratory in aca- ie bags to give to first responders. Ayler is happy with the demics, and leadership skills, outcome of the organization this character traits and service work. year. “The numbers are up. As an A big part of National Honor advisor, I’ve been able to make it Society within Park High is peer more well known and changed tutoring. Each member is required what National Honor Society is to have ten hours of peer tutoring within Park High,” Ayler said. or ten sessions per year. “Peer tutoring is a place where people can
MADDY CARROLL Geyser Staff Writer
Photo By: Maddy Carroll
National Honor Society member Zoe Bishop helps a student during Peer Tutoring, after school.
4 April 23, 2018
What is your most memorable teaching moment? Mr. Bausch:
“I always enjoy when students come back and tell me that they aced their history college course, because they kept my notes. That tells me that I’m teaching at a level we need to be teaching at and that I’m doing my job.”
Ms. Curtis:
“Every time that I see a student exceed my expectations, that is the most rewarding part. I didn’t know that teaching could be so rewarding by watching my students excel.”
1988
Bill Shannon
1996
Lynnette Evanson
Ms. Evanson:
Mr. Shannon:
“I set up a day-long Early Man workshop that had archaeologists and paleontologists that came and gave thoughts to students of how Early Man came to exist in Montana. A student who graduated about 3 years later came up to me and told me that was one of most exciting things he has done and I will never forget that.”
“There are very few and the few of them that come to mind are when students become personally involved in thinking about themselves and their place in the world. We had discussions in one of my classes after the last school shooting and we were able to respect one another and have a really beautiful and honest conversation about our feelings on that. There were students who came back the next day thanking me for allowing them to talk about that in a way that they haven't been able to say what they wanted to say and have it be heard.”
1988
1994 1967: Apollo 1 catches fire; three astronuats die
1969: July 20, First moon landing
1968: Park High School was built
1976: “Play that Funky Music” was released by Wild Cherry
1975: The Vietnam War ends
1984: Mr. Shannon begins teaching at PHS
1980: Mt Saint Helens erupted
Chris Bausch
Nancy Curtis
1987: The drinking age was changed to 21
1986: Mr. Bausch begins teaching at PHS
5
Taking a walk down Park High memory lane WRITTEN BY DENIE HAMPSON AND JAIA WAGMAN Geyser Staff Writers In a time when “Generation Z” wasn’t even a thought, many of your grandparents were watching the Apollo 11 mission as Neil Armstrong landed on the moon; July 20, 1969. In small town Livingston, Montana during all this excitement, Park High started its legacy. In 1968, Park High was first seen within our town. With the concern about the high school being built in the floodplain, the process of determining the final location of the school took time, but eventually the base was planted and the memories began. One major turning point in Livingston’s educational history was when the middle school burned down in 1987. This was a very cluttered and difficult time because all of the middle schoolers had to move to either the old Lincoln school or some even
at Park with the high schoolers. More recently, in 2011, Park High passed a 15 million dollar community bond to remodel the school. This provided us with new technology, equipment, and updated interior designs. Everything was remodeled within the school, except the weight room. Fortunately, in 2017, Park was lucky enough to have the weight room remodeled by Lift Life, since our weight room had remained untouched since the 1990’s. Throughout the years, there have been many students, and certain teachers who have seen the changes at not only Park High, but within the student body, community, and the world. “I think when I was younger and entering the high school, I was most excited by the amount of support our sports teams always got. Throughout my four years, it has really dropped, but my senior year has been awesome with the amount of support and commitment our athletics received,” states senior Brock Peterson. Teachers, however, have seen a wider spectrum of change. Current history
PHS cafeteria during BPA Regionals in 2010.
Senior hallway during Homecoming week in 2010 prior to the renovation.
1991: The world gained access to internet service
1988: Ms. Curtis begins teaching at PHS
1990: Columbine Shooting
teacher, Bill Shannon, states “I think students act much better today than they did when I first came here. There were many students who truly believed they were going to work for the railroad, and so their attitude was very surly and destructive. But, this whole evolution began to change when the railroad shops began to close down and the community had to adjust to that.” Besides social and student body change, technology has taken its toll. English teacher Lynnette Evanson shares how she experienced this first hand. “We had typewriters. Computers were not a thing back in those days. We had films that had to be shown on film projectors.” Having veteran teachers is a vital role in our school system because they have seen the ups and downs of changes and will continue to see more. Some may argue that a teacher who has more experience might give students a more effective education rather than a teacher who has only been teaching for a few years. “I think Mr. Bausch has such a routine and schedule that he
1994: Ms. Evanson 2001: The Twin Towers in begins teaching at New York were struck PHS
1993: “Don’t Go Breaking My Heart” was released by Elton John and Kiki Dee
makes his class move fast enough where you don’t get bored. The pace of the class keeps your attention,” Peterson explains. Another benefit we may see from long lasting teachers is the way they influence the school’s atmosphere. Junior Morgan Rosberg believes that “those certain teachers know the routes and ways of the high school. They are usually the ones who can help direct students in a more effective way. They also are set as good role models, and will demonstrate the rights and the wrongs for our school.” Overall, the history throughout Park High remains tremendous, and it will continue to grow in the future. Throughout the past, there have been many eyes that have seen it, including teachers who are still giving students their knowledge to this day. After all the construction, chaos throughout the world, improvements in technology, and changes in the law, Park High would not be what it is today without the teachers who have stayed through it all.
C-pod/Library hallway in 2010 prior to renovation. The current boys bathroom in that hallway was once a girls bathroom.
2011: PHS was remodeled
2008: “WALL-E” was released
2018: Mr. Shannon retires
6 Investing
April 23, 2018
Investors? Possibly You! BY MATT NETLEY & JOHN WADDELL Geyser Staff Writer
Learning to manage your money and spend it responsibly is an important skill to have as an adult, and it is never too soon to begin. This includes making money, saving it, spending it on things you need rather than wasting it, investing it, and keeping accurate records of your money. These things can be taught by parents, or by taking classes such as personal finance with Reid Lende and economics with Joey Lane. Many students at Park High School have learned to manage their money through one or both of these classes, but there is a variety of students here who have started preparing for their future in different ways. Cole Vondra, a junior, currently
takes personal finance with Lende. The class has helped him realize potential in investments, and helped to inspire his goal of becoming an investment banker. Vondra started investing because, “I wanted make more money, and investing is the best way to do that in a short amount of time. If you make smart decisions.” He has purchased stock in Tesla Company, Ferrari N.V, and iRobot Corporation. Vondra also chose to invest in cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin and Ripple because of the high upside and return on investment. Another investor at Park High is Charlie Kirn. Kirn began investing around three years ago because of his parent’s advice that it was a good idea, and his sister began doing it. He took out his savings bonds and invested them in the stock market. Kirn owns stock in a variety of companies.
He chose to put money in Apple because it is a steady, low risk investment. He also owns shares of Snapchat and Adidas, two stocks which he believes will grow soon. Kirn also invested in Bitcoin Investment Trust because it was booming at the time. Making smart economical decisions isn’t just for men, though. Freshman Kara Saari, who works at Glenn’s Grocery Store in Clyde Park three times a week, has already begun preparing for her future. She has a savings account in which she tries to deposit $100-300 a month. By starting to save so early, she hopes to save up at least $5000 by the end of high school, which she plans to use for college expenses and travel. Aurora Henderson, a junior, has also made a habit of saving her money. While working three days a week at Dairy Queen, she strives to save at least $400 a month.
Though she is not saving for anything specific, she does hope to have more than $12,000 in the bank by the time she graduates. Henderson says she is interested in investing her money, but has not yet done that. The students mentioned are just examples of the many students we have in our school who are learning to manage their money before they become an adult. The experience they gain, and money they make now will be highly beneficial to their future. Investing now allows their money to compound over time, and helps teach positive habits in regards to managing money at a young age. Those who save for college or retirement now reduce their costs later in life.
Watch Your Money Grow
Investing Tips for High School aged Kids -Avoid all types of debt at all costs, it is the biggest obsticle in your way. -Build a good savings habit. This may be hard at times, but even a little bit goes a long way. -Study stocks, bonds, and investing. Knowledge of these is key if you want to succeed in your investing. -Learn about and create a second income. Entrepreneurship is a great way to make extra cash allowing you more to invest. -Be patient, young grasshopper. it takes time. via einvestingforbeginners.com
Data from FoundationsU.com
If you invest $150 monthly into an account at 8% interest for 50 years this graph shows how your money will exponentially grow.
After 10 years, the account will be worth $27,624 After 20 years, the account will be worth $88,942 After 30 years, the account will be worth $225,044 After 40 years, the account will be worth $527,142 After 50 years, the account will be worth $1,197,692
April 23, 2018
Investing 7
Dynamic investing duo BY RYDELL FLOYD Geyser Staff Writer
Over the course of the past couple of years, business teacher Reid Lende has been teaching a high school class that if payed attention too, and taken seriously, could change lives. Personal Finance is a well-rounded class including many tips and opinions of successful people that if explored, could help you become a successful person. The class curriculum is based on a book by Dave Ramsey which has chapters and ideas of how to make smart moves and make your money work for you. Some states are even making the class a requirement for graduation. Lende thinks that this class should be required for graduation, “Recent statistics show that only 1 in 5 high school graduates have taken a personal finance class,” Lende said. With that being pretty low numbers, it is harder for American teens to start investing early to set themselves up better in the future. “With this in mind, they have a huge target on their back for getting a student loan and obtaining credit card debt. Unfortunately, many students who graduate college with this debt end up paying it off for at least 10-15 years, and it takes away a lot of financial opportunities,” Lende added. For many American teens it›s easy to get sucked into the trap of having to “Keep
up with the Jones” which is basically saying if your buddy buys a new car, you think you have to get a new car too; however, that is not smart whatsoever. Did you know that if you save $2,000 per year for 45 years at Reid Lende, Personal a 9% interest rate Finance Instructor. in a compound interest fund, you will have just over a million dollars in just about 45 years? It’s really crazy how we can make our money work for us. Many people don’t realize they need to start saving up their money until they are older. On the other hand, some people realize this and start younger. “No, I actually read The Total Money Makeover about eight years ago” Lende said. He went on to say, “it completely changed my attitude about money. It is arguably the best book I’ve ever read, and everything financially started to make sense.” Lende has followed Dave Ramsey’s methods and has found, “Financial peace.”
Although this can be hard to start doing, “Everyone can achieve this. Not just a few, but everyone.” Lende said. Local Financial advisor Matt Blades of Edward Jones has got a whole new level of inMatt Blades, Financial sight, having dealt Advisor. with this business as his job. “If you could accomplish all your financial goals just by putting your paycheck into the bank every couple of weeks, you wouldn’t need the services of a financial advisor. But life isn’t that simple – and so, at some point, you may realize you need some professional assistance,” Blades said. “It is always a great idea to find a financial advisor that you can trust to help achieve your long term financial goals. Working with a local advisor allows them to get to know your tolerance for risk and what’s important to you,” he added. Seeing how money can work for you and helping people as a job has to be fun. Blades has many helpful in-
sights on what you can do to help yourself, especially if you start at a young age. “Contrary to myth, there’s no real way to “get rich quick” when investing,” he said. “To build wealth, you need patience – and time. If you own quality investments with growth potential, and you give them years – in fact, decades – to increase in value, your perseverance may be rewarded. Of course, there are no guarantees, and you’ll need the discipline to withstand the inevitable downturns along the way. But in describing how long he likes to keep his investments, renowned investor Warren Buffet says his favorite holding period is “forever,” Blades said. Growing up, this Montana native knew he wanted to help his community somehow, which first led him to consider being a doctor or a dentist, but he later decided a Financial Advisor was his best trade. Blades knows that, “To accumulate resources for retirement, you need to save and invest throughout your working life.” but there will be many events that come up like, “making a down payment on a home, sending your children to college, taking a round-the-world trip, and so on.” Some Park High students have met with Matt and are starting to invest in their future already.
8
Sighting in on guns and school security
April 23, 2018
9
Run, lock, fight: schools prepare for the worst BY CLAIRE BROWN Geyser Staff Writer
Senior Brock Peterson sights in his 300 short mag for the upcoming spring bear season at the local rod and gun club.
Photo by Nicholas Burda
The role and importance of guns in our MT lives BY NICHOLAS BURDA Geyser Staff Writer Recently, the conversation surrounding gun violence and guns in general have been very negative and has created backlash and even protests regarding gun control. While the latest mass shootings have not helped the negativity dealing with guns, there are benefits to owning a gun, especially in Montana. Being a Montana gun owner provides the chance to learn about the historical need for guns, help boost the economy, and can be mentally and physically healthy hobby. “ My life would be unhealthy both mentally and physically, also less hobbies, without bearing firearms.” Says Bo Jessen who is a responsible and proud advocate of guns. A huge topic to think about involving guns is the history behind gun usage and how it helped shape Montana into what it is today. Guns have been around since 1367 when the first firearm was invented, 243 years before the first settlers came to Jamestown. Having a gun helped the people survive, whether it was putting food on the table or protecting one another from danger. The Montanans before us built our state with the help of guns, and the positive aspects of gun use through our history have remained. Gun owners in Montana, for the most part, are using guns safely for jobs and for recreation, and not for reasons that are harmful. According to the CDC, the number of firearm deaths in Montana is above the national average; however, the majority of those deaths are from suicide. Montana’s homicide rate in 2016 was well below the U.S average. Jessen says he uses his gun at least twice a week. “I use my guns for providing food for my family, as well as a hobby, and always being able to defend myself,” he said. The economy is also positively impacted by the use of guns. Guns provide tons of jobs such as gunsmiths/arms dealer, outfitting, and even the use of guns in the police force. The jobs created are endless, but they aren’t the only economic boost. Guns are a crucial part of hunting during rifle season, and hunting season brings in tons of money each year. Every part of Livingston benefits from hunting season whether it’s the small restaurants that feed hunters after a long day of hiking to the sporting goods stores that have all of the new gear. Senior Shea Bergsing stated that without guns in his life he would have to find all new hobbies and would have to spend more money on meat in the stores. The history of guns is important and the economy is impacted positively, but guns also offer an awesome way to keep people healthy. Hunting is not an easy sport by any means and requires more energy than one might think. The quietness of hunt-
ing also has mental health benefits where it even tests the mind. You have to stay one step ahead of the animal that you are after in order for the hunt to be successful. It is something to keep people out of trouble and it can be a great bonding experience. Besides the physical and mental workout you get from hunting, you also gain a new responsibility when owning a gun. Knowing how to care for your gun and how to safely handle a gun is a big responsibility that can be used in other aspects of life. Teaching people the correct and safe ways to handle a gun can make hunting even better by creating that sense of maturity it takes in order to have a safe, but yet successful hunt. One also has to pass a Hunters Safety class in order to legally hunt, which takes place every year Aug 13th in Livingston. It is easy to quickly judge the use of guns when there is so much hate and violence, but the reality of gun use in a small state tells a different story. It is not always about the kill that comes with guns, sometimes it’s about having a good time with your friends shooting targets for fun, or better yet, just the experience people get when guns are positively involved.
Park High school, along with many schools in America, has taken proactive steps in providing the utmost security possible for students and staff members. School safety has been an important part in Park High’s goals and certain precautions have begun to be implemented. Sitting in 6th period the day before, co-principal, Lori Dust spoke over the intercom informing all students and staff members of the recent addition to the school regulations: all students must use the front door to enter at all times. These new rules have been discussed for a long period of time in staff and community meetings. The school board has decided to finally set things in place. “Decisions and change have been discussed for a year and a half,” Dust stated. She also mentioned the first new regulation set in place at the beginning of her work at Park High school, the tardy policy. Dust explained the tardy policy as a tool to decrease physical bullying in the hallways, which statistically happens most often in the duration of passing periods. This school year, new dictums have also been enforced. The front door entrance requires visitors to sign in at the main office. The goal of creating a one door entrance is to create a safer building. The school has planned to add yet an-
Photo by Miranda Hard
Due to new security measures, all students must enter the front doors of the school, requiring students such as these to walk around from the parking lot. a school body, the best way to protect ourselves is to better our relationships among each other and be able to rely on one another.
17 minutes dedicated to the past, present, and future BY TALIA HANSEN Geyser Staff Writer
Fast-Fact box
-Background checks have blocked over 3 million gun sales to prohibited people -Gun laws in Illinois- to possess/ buy a firearm or ammunition, the individual must own a Firearm Owners Identification (FOID) card, which can be issued by the Illinois state police to any qualified applicant. -83% of murders in Illinois are from illegally owned firearms, disregarding the strict regulations -Customers must pass the federal ATF F 4473 and pass the required Brady Act background check -31% of people with a mental illness and/or a substance abuse committed an act of violence at least once a year -In 2014, 248 murders were committed with a firearm, 660 were committed unarmed, and 1,567 were committed with knives “FBI: Nearly 5X More Murders Committed With Knives Than Assault Rifles.” Infowars, 1 Oct. 2015, Harvard Health Publishing. “Mental Illness and Violence.” Harvard Health
other regulation. “The buzz-in system is in the works, and all of the other school systems in Livingston have it already,” said Officer Will Williams. This system will require visitors to buzz-in at the front door entrance and only be allowed in by the administrative secretary, Melissa Cahoon or Lisa Yarborough, after school has started for the day. “It maintains the control over who’s coming in and improves the safety of students,” explained Williams, ensuring this policy will be the ultimate safety precaution. Williams also stated that the rules have pretty much always been in the works, but within the last year they have really taken off. It seems the majority of the student body has acknowledged and respected the set rules under the impression that the administration is doing what they can to keep students and staff safe. Some students see it as a necessity, and others see it as high maintenance. “I feel that it is not going to work as well as people think it is,” stated Sam Rockafellow. Rockafellow expressed he wants the administration and staff members to treat students as adults because, “We are all young adults here and are about to be entering the real world.” The school system will continue to make adjustments and add new rules for a safer environment for all people in the school building. An important part of the safety plan is “See something, say something.” As
Photo by Alex Centofanti
Reagan Smith shows her support to her middle school sister during the walkout on March 14.
Wednesday March 14th, students across America took a walk for what they believe in. At 10 a.m. students of Park High gathered on the front lawn in hopes to raise legislation towards school safety. A small crowd of community members held signs and stood across the street in support of students, and the peaceful assembly was a beautiful demonstration of the first amendment. After the recent shooting in Parkland, Florida where 15 students and two teachers lost their lives while attending their daily classes, high schools across the nation have walked out for 17 minutes to have a moment of silence for the victims. During these protests there have been speeches on gun control, prominent guest speakers asking legislators to take youths opinions into consideration, and mostly a lot of love and unity being spread throughout the community. Though some school protests have become riots in which students smash
windows, disrupt active classes, and even some fist fights, Park High’s walkout was an emotional time for students of all grade levels. Senior Zoe Bishop helped to gather students to participate in this walk out. Bishop worked closely with the Park High administration to understand their rights, the expectations of a peaceful protest, and the sacrifices they could be expected to make to support their cause. During the 17 minute assembly Bishop and several other students read through just a few of the mass shootings that have occurred in our country over the last 10 years, as well as listing their victim counts. The purpose was to shed a light on the gun violence faced in situations other than just high schools. 17 roses were then placed in the center of the circle in memory of the recent shooting. The gathering ended with the student body joining hands and taking a moment of silence for all victims of the Parkland shooting. The protest gained a lot of national attention. Photos from the Park High protest were featured on the New York Times website, and on Buzzfeed.
Some of the students who didn’t participate in the walkout saw the demonstration as a direct attack on the second amendment, while others felt as though the issue of gun control shouldn’t be addressed in school. Although senior Taylor Walker believed in the purpose of the nationwide protest, she chose to stay seated. “The protest was about change but it seemed to me that the Park High walk out was asking for gun bans. Walking out would have put me in the stereotype of being anti-gun, when really I just understand we have to do something.” Students who walked out at Park High were counted absent for their 3rd period class, which could result in credit loss for some, due to accumulated absences. “There’s value in sacrifice. Change won’t be easy and we can’t expect it to be. This is a real issue and I am proud of all the students who walked out with us for sacrificing for that they believe in. I am also proud of the students who didn’t participate for their ability to know what they value and what causes they think are worth fighting for”, said Bishop.
Page 10 Pods
April 23, 2018
The problem with pods; Students speak up Rules incomparison MADDY AND MIRANDA Geyser Staff Writer
MIRANDA HARD Geyser Staff Writer
For a lot of the students here at Park High, the pods are a place they go to find peace and quiet while they eat, whether they are eating breakfast or lunch. A lot do homework while they eat, while some just goof around, creating a lot of noise. Some teachers think it’s good that there’s a variety as to where students can eat. Some, on the other
spectrum, still enforce the original rules whenever they can. The ones who do feel like they are seen as the “Pod Patrol.” When the pods were first introduced to the school, about five years ago, there was a strict no food/drink policy. Now, teachers in different pods are coming up with different rules. While coming up with rules, some teachers from the same pod found that they have a different idea about the situation than others.
Photo By: Maddy Carroll
This is almost an every day look at the A-Pod during first lunch. Students come and sit in the carpeted area at the tables while enjoying their lunch .
The office uproar MADDY CARROLL Geyser Staff Writer
The issue of eating in the pods is well known even among staff members who are not directly linked to the pods. Melissa Cahoon, the secretary in the attendance office, finds it distracting for the teachers to have students eating in the pods during classes. She mentioned how the C-pod teachers have come to an agreement to let the students eat in the pod. The messes from students have been a talked about topic for a while now. “The students need to learn to police themselves” Cahoon said. Cahoon, along with many of the other staff members who were interviewed, feels that a large amount of the students don’t follow the rules that have been implemented. Lisa Yarborough could be added to the list of staff members who doesn’t think eating in the pods should be allowed. “It ruins the furniture having stuff spilt on them. Right out there in the pod in front of the office, the cute furniture was ruined and now it’s been
replaced by ugly tables and chairs” Yarbrough said. She also believes that one of the biggest issues is that students don’t clean up after themselves. “If they just cleaned up their messes, there wouldn’t really be an issue” she said. As long as each pod’s rules are being followed, Lori Dust, one of the co-principals, doesn’t have an issue with eating in the pod. One of her biggest concerns is the students’ behavior, and how when teachers confront students, some of them tend to be disrespectful. She believes that one of the best ways to avoid the pod issue is by keeping them clean. “I don’t want any privileges taken from people just because a few students can’t follow the rules, but if that is what it comes to” she said. Unlike some of the staff, Dust feels that the rules are followed typically well as a whole, but there is still that small percentage that doesn’t. “I would encourage the younger students to follow the rules so it doesn’t ruin it for others”, Dust said.
We’ve all heard the teachers opinions on the pods, but now it is time for the students to have a voice. Sophomore Sydney Booth finds that eating in pods can be a nice quiet place to go. “Being in the lunchroom gives me anxiety. It’s really crowded and loud. The pods can sometimes be a nice place to eat,” Booth said. Although, she doesn’t always think it’s a nice place to go. “It can sometimes get annoying because there are some freshman who sit in there. They are very loud and act like they’re five,” she said. When asked about the rules, the only rule she could really remember was there technically isn’t supposed to be eating in the pod. Even though, once she started to eat in there, teachers never said anything, so she just makes sure to clean up after herself. She agreed with the majority of the teachers that for the most part the rules are not followed and she finds it distracting for the teachers when students are in the pods being loud. Senior Liam Walsh thinks that the teachers should be a little bit more relaxed about eating in the pods. “I don’t think it should be a big deal if the students eat in the table areas, but I do understand them not letting kids eat in the carpeted area. My freshman year someone spilled coffee on the carpet in the B-Pod, and there is still a huge stain there,” Walsh said.
When Sophomore Reagan Frantz was asked if she finds it distracting for classes when students are in the pod, she said no. “I’ve never once been in class and been distracted by kids in the pods,” she said. On top of that, she thought that the only way it could be distracting is if a class was out in the pod and students were talking with the class. Once the computer lab began being locked, this blocked off an area where a few students would spend their lunch. One of these students is sophomore Andy Lander, who was left to eat in his car during lunch. Although it took away his place to eat, he found that the computer lab was very reasonable. “It’s school policy not to play games on the computers and some of the kids would leave messes,” he said. On the other hand, Sophomore Chase Petrulis found that having the computer lab closed was a little bit frustrating. He and his friends would eat in there during lunch because it provided a secluded place for them to hang out and get work done. “Once the computer lab was closed, I didn’t know where to eat lunch. Now my friends and I just go out to eat almost every day because he lunch room is too crowded,” Petrulis said. But along with Lander, Petrulis found the reasoning behind the closure of the computer lab to be understandable. “My friends and I could be a little messy, but once brought to our attention we tried to work on it, but obviously not all of the kids did the same,” he said.
Photo By: Miranda Hard
This sign can be found in any of the pods. It lists out the simple rules that all pods should follow unless decided otherwise by the teachers.
April 23, 2018
C-pod
HANNAH DAILEY Geyser Staff Writer
The teachers in the C-Pod came to an agreement that students should be able to eat in the pod, as long as they clean up their mess. Math teachers, Lynne Perry and John Gannon have placed sticky notes on the tables saying, “Clean table with spray bottle and towel when done eating lunch.” Science teacher, Randy Mogen thinks that this year has been worse than other years with students misbehaving in the pods during lunch. He has noticed that students have been stepping on the sofas, tables are left a mess, and those
Page 11 Pods in the pod have been overall disrespectful. Science teacher, Becky Ayler has a prep period during lunch, but finds the noise coming from the pods to be distracting when students are being too loud. “This is the first year with an issue of eating in the pods,” states Ayler referring to how distracting students can be. “Generally if kids get reminded, they follow the rules,” states Perry. Perry tries to go out during lunch to rePhoto By: Maddy Carroll mind students to clean up after eating. Photo By: Miranda Hard The C-pod has provided clean up maWith students given the privilege to eat Pictured above is a sign which is located by the terials for the students to use after they in C pod, teachers would appreciate if computer in the C-pod. are done eating. the students were more considerate.
B-pod
HANNAH DAILEY Geyser Staff Writer
Photo By: Maddy Carroll
The stain pictured above is the results from students having a drink iin the carpeted area in the B-pod.
D-pod
Photo By: Maddy Carroll
Students enjoy eachothers company in the B-pod during first lunch. While some are also enjoying lunch.
the past who were eating in the pod because they were being disruptive. A lot “I’ve become the Pod Police,” of the teachers who have a fourth peHistory teacher Bill Shannon said. riod class can’t even go out and work “When students see me coming, they try in the pod because there’s people eating to hide their food.” The D-Pod teachers or messing around in it. “This place is try to follow the rules that were first im- for instruction,” Tennant stated, “I don’t plemented. Whenever they can, they understand why students today have no guide students to not eat in the pod, as mindfulness for other people and their most of the teachers find it distracting, space.” Tennant said that the computer disrespectful and inappropriate. “People lab was a place where kids would eat and get snooty and give me an attitude when leave messes. She mentioned that one I tell them they can’t eat in here,” Shan- of the walls is all beat up, some of the non recalls, “I don’t have time for that.” blinds are broken and the lining on the far Shannon said that two years ago ledge is torn up and off in some places. “I walked into the computer lab eating in the pod really started becomone day and a kid was taking the keys off ing a problem. Some staff members of a keyboard,” Bryan Beitel said. Besaid to just let it be, but he said the itel said that the computer lab was the pods are strictly for academics. Stuplace where a lot of the disrespect was dents either leave their trays on the happening. There was food left evtables or counters, spill drinks, or are erywhere, chairs everywhere, mouse’s highly noisy, or all of the above. The started disappearing, the setup would be computer lab was closed before school, messed up, and some drinks were even at lunch and after school because students would eat in there and leave a spilled, which led to it being locked. mess. Shannon didn’t like the lab be- Unlike his fellow pod teachers, Beitel ing used in that way. Teachers seem thinks that if the students clean up after to find the noise the most distracting. themselves and are respectful, he sees Miya Tennant said that she has no problem when students eat in the pod. had to kick out multiple individuals in
“No, am I crazy?” states history teacher, Chris Bausch when asked if he believes if students follow the rules in the B-Pod. Every pod has their own rules, that students are required to follow. The three rules in the B Pod were to keep volume down, no food or drinks other than water, and keep feet off furniture and tables. Today, none of those rules are being followed. When Bausch was asked what the rules are in the pod he replied with “who knows anymore”. Bausch and English teacher
Sarah Dahl both agree that it is not a problem if students eat out in the pod as long as people clean up their mess. That is the problem though, they don’t. Bausch, Dahl, and Mussetter all pointed out the messes on the tables, the spilled drinks, and footprints on the chairs. Many of the sofas have been damaged due to disrespect. “There is a hole in this one, and it just seems natural for students to poke their fingers in it,” states Dahl. Park high teacher Sarah Mussetter has to close her door because students get too loud. She doesn’t like students eating in the pods at all. “It drives me bonkers,” states Mussetter.
MIRANDA HARD Geyser Staff Wrtiter
Photo By: Maddy Carroll
As you can see, clumps of mud are hanging off of the edge of one of the sofas, due to students putting their feet up on the furniture.
Photo By: Maddy Carroll
Seniors Conner Busby and Sierra Sears enjoy some Mark’s In and Out while realaxing in the D-pod during first lunch.
12 Feature
April 23, 2018
The down side of having the Canadian Gray Wolf back in the Paradise Valley ecosystem tapeworm is consumed by livestock, elk or other wildlife, or by a human, the eggs could turn into a hydatid cyst in the interThe reintroduction of the Canadian nal organs. From there, the animal is then wolves took place in 1995 and 1996. Unit- infected with the disease. It is an advantage ed States Fish, Wildlife, and Parks brought for the wolves because this disease affects in 66 Canadian wolves from Alberta, Cana- the lungs of the elk causing them to become da. 32 of the wolves were reintroduced into weak and is easier to catch because they are the greater Yellowstone area and an addi- slow. Over 68% of wolves that have been tional 34 into the Salmon River Wilderness tested for echinococcosis granulosus were in Idaho. In order to bring the wolves back, tested positive in the states of Montana, the tax payers had to pay a hefty price. For Idaho, and Wyoming and most wolves are each wolf, it cost $200,000 to $1,000,000 known to carry up to fifty different diseases. to bring it back. USFWS has spent over The reason for the reintroduction was $200 million in taxpayer’s money just on because of the rising elk numbers in the Yelthe reintroduction of the Canadian wolf. lowstone area and the overgrazing that was Before the reintroduction, Montana damaging the land. Many ask, “Was there a and the Yellowstone area was home to one better solution for the reintroduction of the of the healthiest deer, elk and Shira moose Canadian Wolf?” Petrich states, “I do not population in the world. In 1995, elk num- think it was necessary but I do agree some bers in Yellowstone were as high as 19,045. elk needed to be killed. They should have The count in 2012, just 17 years after, the thought about increasing the elk seasons.” numbers were down to 3,915 elk and the If you look around today, you are moose have almost vanished. The wolves able to see the significant damage the don’t only just kill these animals; they cause wolves have caused since then. Forty a tremendous amount of stress on them and years ago, you were able to travel through make it where the animals are so stressed, Montana and Yellowstone Park and see they can’t get pregnant nor feel the urge to healthy elk herds ranging from 50 to one eat. Zander Petrich, a local rancher located 100 per group. Today when you travel 35 miles north of Yellowstone Park, and through those areas, you will see groups involved in family’s outfitting business, of stressed and scared elk ranging from agrees that since the introduction, he has 500 to 1,000 plus due to the fact they are seen many losses in cattle and has made scared to separate and range freely because the outfitting business less successful. they could get attacked. They are comThe wolves haven’t just brought ing down into the hayfields to feed and is their echoing howls to the Greater Yellow- deeply affecting the upcoming crops.This stone area, but nasty hydatid diseases. Be- impacted ranchers and farmers in a big fore the introduction, there was no known way. Elk herds that size have no problem incidence of hydatid diseases in Montana, wiping out pieces of crop lands in just a Idaho, or Wyoming. A hydatid disease is short period of time, just with their hooves. a parasitic infection of carrying animals Ranchers are also being affected by that can also infect humans. It’s caused by the loss of their livestock that the wolves a small tapeworm living in canids of the are killing. It is very discouraging for a wolves. The tapeworm eggs pass out of the ranch to work so hard to build a healthy feces of the animals that are infected. If the and productive livestock herd and have
BY JAYDON O’HAIR Geyser Staff Writer
Photo courtesy of Jaydon O’Hair
A local rancher holds up a wolf that he shot while protecting his cattle. them killed by an animal that was brought back into Montana and surrounding areas to “slim down elk herds.” Petrich believes the only way to keep wolves in check is to “manage the wolves in an aggressive way and increase the wolf hunting quota in the Gardiner Basin.” So why are the wolves moving to livestock? It’s easier for them to kill, and sadly they are slowing running out of elk, moose, and deer to feast on. Something else that people don’t understand about wolves is that they are not only killing to survive, they are killing just for pleasure. Elk left to rot, just killed and left. Animals that could have
fed a family for months just left to lay and be eaten by rodents and other small predators. Sadly, sometimes the wolves don’t even kill the animal they are attacking. It is known that wolves sometimes just torture animals by biting them and eating them alive, then leaving them to suffer.
April 23, 2018
13 Feature
Wolves in Paradise Valley ecosystem keep elk and deer populations in check
on the endangered species list. Then, in 2011 congress BY LANE MARSHALL had an action to take the wolf Geyser Staff Writer When biologists reintro- off of the endangered species duced the Canadian Gray wolf list in Montana and Idaho. After the wolf was taken into the Greater Yellowstone off of the list in Montana, MonEcosystem, there was a trementana Fish, Wildlife, and Parks dous amount of support behind allowed the wolves to start bethe project. After the wolf was ing harvested by hunters. The brought in, it helped the ecopopulation had increased from system and the economy in 31 wolves when they were inthe Greater Yellowstone Area. troduced to an astonishing 500 In 1935 the last wolf wolves in the Greater Yellowwas shot out of the Yellowstone Area, and for 60 years stone Ecosystem. This was there wasn’t a single wolf in now a sustainable population the Greater Yellowstone Eco- to hunt, and many agreed. Ansystem. Without one of the other Park High student Sam primary predators in the eco- Saarel said it’s fine if wolves system, it allowed for elk, are hunted, as long as there is deer, and moose populations a fixed amount of tags to conto flourish. In 1995-1996 bi- trol the population, but they ologists released 31 Canadian aren’t getting over hunted. Since the wolf has been Gray wolves into Yellowstone. reintroduced into the Greater Supporters lined the North Yellowstone Ecosystem, they East Entrance roads at Garhave helped benefit the ecosysdiner, Montana, as the wolves were brought in on trucks. tem in many ways. Before they In 2009 Montana, Ida- were put into the ecosystem in ho, and Wyoming delisted the 1995 and 1996, the Northern wolf as an endangered species Yellowstone elk herd was pushlist. The fight was on by sup- ing almost 20,000 elk. In 2012 porters to get the wolf back on after 17 years of having wolves the endangered species list un- in the Yellowstone Ecosystem, til the population got to a larger the same elk herd was down sustainable population. After to only about 3,000 elk. Aclegal challenges the North- cording to popular science who ern Rocky Mountain wolf went and did a research article population was again placed on the wolf in the Yellowstone
Fact Box:
1. Wolves can run up to 38 miles
per hour.
2. A hungry wolf can eat up to 20 pounds in one meal. 3. Wolves have been known to attack humans. 4. Wolves can live to the age of 13. 5. Wolves are the largest member of the dog family.
Photo courtesy of CC0 Public Domain
A black wolf crosses the road in Yellowstone Park during the winter. ecosystem, they found that 60% less elk allows for the vegetation to come back strongly. When the vegetation is allowed to come back, it allows for other animals to thrive in the ecosystem as well, including the beaver and other animals. Not only has the wolf reintroduction helped the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem, but it’s also helped the Greater Yellowstone economy. Tourists from all over the world have come to Yellowstone National
Photo courtesy of Dana Baskett
Park High Seniors Shea Bergsing and Sam Saarel conduct a telemetry analysis on a Ecology Project International field trip in Yellowstone National Park.
Park to see the elusive animals. When tourists are on their way to Yellowstone, they have to come through Livingston, the gateway to Yellowstone. This helps benefit our local economy by those people stopping at Livingston’s local businesses to buy different items and goods. Not only do people come to see the wolves, but they come to hunt them as well. A resident wolf tag costs nineteen dollars, and a non-resident costs fifty dollars. Almost ev-
ery elk or deer hunter will buy a wolf tag as well just in case they see a wolf. Then the same thing happens as with tourists. The hunters will spend money at local businesses within our community. Lindsay Lee said that the wolves help bring tourists into the Yellowstone area, as well as hunters to go and buy hunting licenses. After seeing how the reintroduction of the wolves into the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem, it makes people wonder if they Canadian Gray wolf shouldn’t be introduced into other ecosystems. Lee said it depends if there has been wolves in those ecosystems before. The wolf can have a dramatic change on an ecosystem and it is a thought that shouldn’t be taken lightly.
Photo Courtesy of San Saarel
A Park High student uses a spotting scope to glass for animals in a river bottom in Yellowstone while on the Ecology Project International Field trip.
Page 14
April 23, 2018
Makeovers: Now featuring no makeup TALIA HANSEN Geyser Staff Writer High school is a highly transitional time in every person’s life. You begin to truly discover who you are, what you like, what you believe in, and your self worth. We are given tools and resources in life to help create diversity, but one of the most popular ways to make yourself stand out is with your appearance. Girls are known for being exceptionally good at academics, flexibility, and makeup. In the morning before school, the average Park High female says to spend anywhere from 10-30 minutes on their makeup. What’s the reason for eyeshadow season? When it comes to makeup, there are many superficial sides of it that can be seen. Everyone is already beautiful in their own natural way, and makeup is just a tool that can be used if someone wishes. No one has really shown any negativity about people choosing to have their hair a certain way, so why treat this any different? Appearance may matter to some, and it may not to others, and there’s nothing wrong with that, but what needs to be remembered is that we don’t, or shouldn’t, express ourselves in a certain way for others, but for our own personal wanting. Everyone is going through their own stuff and figuring out who they want to be for themselves, not for others. When you see a girl or boy with eyeliner or heavy mascara, which may be something you’re not typically one for, just leave it be. Who are you to judge what another wants to do with him or herself? With all the things that have recently happened this year, the last thing we need is a barrier separating us from being civil and supportive. If you’ve ever been in the first grade (which hopefully you have), you may remember hearing one of your peers talking about makeup or even rubbing a red marker over their lips to imitate lipstick. We never really thought much of this while we were young, but for some reason, the older we get, the more we judge. Maybe this could be proof that ignorance is bliss.
HolmesBray “I wear makeup every day because it’s fun and makes me feel good. I can feel so empowered when my highlighter is glowing. Girls are the worst when it comes to rude makeup comments, I get “Wow Bray, you’re wearing a lot of makeup today” like really, I had no idea there’s a lot of makeup that I spent an hour doing on my face. Let me live my life and love myself.”
Colin Marks- “I don’t wear makeup because I don’t feel like I need it. People are always so judgmental; if a guy wants to wear makeup he should wear it. If a girl wants to wear makeup she should. It’s no different than doing your hair. If you look good, you feel good.”
In Your Own Words...
Coby Woods- “I have never put makeup on and I don’t think I will ever do it. Putting makeup on makes people think you’re gay. I take 45 minutes to shower, get dressed, and get to school so I don’t really have time for more.”
Sarah Mussetter- “I got involved with the makeup company Younique about a year ago. The art major in me loves all of the colors I can use to paint my face each morning. This company is really unique too; they give a large portion of their proceeds to create safe havens for victims of domestic violence. I think it is important for people to understand makeup is meant to accentuate a feature, and should not be used as a mask to hide behind. My usual makeup routine is 10-15 minutes, unless it’s homecoming—then it’s longer and with more sparkles.”
Changing the perspective ALEX CENTOFANTI Geyser Staff Writer
Top: Paige Volk demonstrates her use of eyeliner and mascara. Bottom: Sarah Mussetter shows off her creative lip color.
Makeup, just like all things, has drastically evolved over time. We have more products, more companies, more uses, more colors, more textures, more scents, and yet more judgments. Though there are a number of people who choose to not wear makeup, the number of people using products seems to have grown. Many see makeup as a look enhancing product and put others down for their involvement with it, but instead of putting people down, we should be raising them up. The stigma that goes along with makeup ruins the point of it all together. We have the power to change the perspective. Although a vast majority of advertisements for makeup products can highlight
negative aspects of makeup and persuade all females to work harder on their looks, we as a community should try to change the perspective. Beauty standards are constantly rising, and we automatically associate beauty with makeup and perfection. What instead needs to happen is to focus on the individual’s feelings rather than our own feelings towards what they look like or what they choose to do with their appearance. 2018 should be the year of individuality, positivity and acceptance, but with this barrier (that may not seem to be too important to some), is having a great effect on people’s lives and self-confidence. Everyone is beautiful, no matter what they decide to do with their appearance. We, as a collective, must learn to be humble and empathetic to others. Beauty is not defined by the exterior, but the interior.
April 23, 2018
15 Sports
Track off and running with new coaching staff BY THADDEUS HAMPSON Geyser Staff Writer Park High track and field is getting a fresh start this year, with some new faces. PHS physical education teacher Ben Hahn has officially taken over as the new head coach, and will lead the short and long distance running. Quentin Marshall, who is helping with runners as well, he is also the assistant cross country coach and an assistant wrestling coach. Casey Bartz is the pole vault coach, Matt Hartter, who is currently a student at MSU, is the throwing coach. Neya Bischoff is coaching in throwing and jumping events, and work studies teacher Megan Lannen is coaching the sprinters and hurdles. “I think that we’ve got ourselves a really great group of coaches this year,” says Hahn. This year coach Hahn wants to try to liven up the athletes of the track team by making the practice more enjoyable. He wants to do things like popsicles or possibly ice cream on warm days, or games such as ultimate frisbee after practice. “I think that is something that has lacked in recent years was making the practice lively and enjoyable, and I would
really like to change that” said Hahn. This year the track team has about 60 participants, about 45 of whom make up the boys team. Coach Hahn says that with the large number of participants the male team will have a great chance at success in some of the team events, as well as the individual events. “We have a very small number of girls playing this year, but the girls we do have are all very talented and are going to do very well in individual events, but the team events we may struggle with”, Hahn explained. “Every day we put our players through specific individual work outs meant for the event that they are in”, said Hahn. Coach Hahn explained that he wants each player to be as prepared for their event as they can, so everyone’s work out is to help them excel in their specific event. Coach Hahn wants the players to stay on more of a healthy diet. “I want them to stay away from sugary products such as soda, and I’d like them to stay clear of processed foods, so if you get a box with an ingredients list two paragraphs long, that’s probably not something that’s too healthy for them to eat. I want them eating real food, something that looks like food”, said Hahn. Hahn says that it doesn’t
Higgs: from softball mom to head coach BY ALEX CENTOFANTI Geyser Staff Writer Starting off the 2018 softball season, new coach Julie Higgs and assistant coaches Chad Nelson and Jeff Gavne will be running the show and working for wins with this year’s team. Being a hardworking mother and an anesthesiologist at the Livingston Hospital, Higgs doesn’t have much time to herself, but still chooses to coach this year’s team. Coach Higg’s daughter, previous Park High student Sierra Higgs, was a member of the team for over two years and her younger girl, Skylar, a freshman at PHS, is also a member. Nelson’s daughter is on the team, along with Gavne’s girl, Paige. Jeff Gavne has always been a fan of softball and has been able to bond over it with his family. He loves helping the girls improve and work on their abilities. Chad Nelson shares the same feelings as Jeff and Julie. Unfortunately, the weather hasn’t been very kind to our girls, with unexpected snow showers and
soggy fields. Their first game was on March 29 against Columbus, with a winning score of 12 to 2. April 17 the girls lost to Laurel in a close match up, 13-15. You can often find the girls practicing in the school gym or out on the fields. Julie has been playing softball for many years and currently plays in the Livingston Slow Pitch League. Previously, she had been involved in the younger girls softball programs, as well as Park High’s and the Livingston Baseball and Softball Association. Higgs has much experience to the game and knows almost all of the girls from prior one-on-one coaching. Senior player Paige Gavne says, “Julie is the most passionate person I have ever met regarding the game of softball. She loves playing as well as coaching the game.” This year’s coaches have been trying to be team-oriented, positive and competitive. With the new coaches and this year’s freshman players, there’s much to be expected. wWe wish the girls of the PHS Softball team good luck this season.
Joey Peacher runs his warm up lap during practice last week. photo by Rydell Floyd
do them much good to work hard at practice then to go home and eat junk food. Coach Hahn is very excited for this
season and believes they will have lots of great success and encourages as many kids to come out for track this year as possible.
Pets of Park High
Page 16
April 23, 2018
Park students proud of their pets BY: LILY DE YOUNG Geyser Staff Writer Pets at Park High are an important part of students’ lives. They provide companionship and entertainment and make life a whole lot better. Some Rangers travel far to get their pets, and some find their forever friends in their backyard. Whatever the case, Park High schoolers are proud pet owners. “ They brighten up my day, and also my cat fetches!” is what Alexis Tinsley has to say about her pets. She has a tuxedo cat “which means it’s adorable” , named Louie and a Springer Spaniel and Clumber Spaniel mix named Bella. Sonia Bornemann has a Lab Weimaraner named Odin and a Pitbull Boxer named Dibs as well as a cat named Douglas who was found on the side of the road in Wisconsin. Bornemann says, “My favorite thing about them is that they are always there when you need them. They provide someone to talk to that won’t give you dumb advice. They’ll go on walks with you, and they provide excellent cuddles.” An Australian Shepherd and Shiba Inu mix named Kona (which means dog in Hawaiian) and a Chihuahua Dachshund
mix named Moose are Ethan Bristol’s dogs. He got Kona in Washington from a friend who was moving, and Moose was from a friend’s litter of puppies. Ethan’s favorite thing about his dogs is that “Having pets adds character to the house!” Some student’s pets are named after where they got them, like Kaylyn Kuehn whose mini-aussie dog Cally is from California. She also has two cats named Oreo and Patches. She says, “They make everything SO much better. And they’re adorable.” Dana Baskett has two cats. One is named Lovelygirl from the Stafford Animal Shelter and her other cat was found under her car and is named Ossie because of her resemblance to an Ocelot. She also has a labradoodle named Willow. “It makes me feel safer when I have a dog. Also Willow gives hugs and comforts you when you’re down. All pets do.” It is clear that students at Park High agree that having pets really affect their lives for the better, and that having a furry friend can make you a lot happier!
Wild for exotic pets BY: GAVIN VOLK Geyser Staff Writer
Many people have pets, but some look and feel much different than your regular-old house cat. Let’s take a look at some ‘irregular’ pets or animals that some people at our school own, and other, more ‘known of’ pets. Instead of having dogs or cats, some people have a multitude of barnyard animals. Kodie Booth, for example, owns a sheep. Her family raises them, so they aren’t hard to come by for her. Other people have smaller, more reptilian pets, like Thad Hampson and his lizards. He bought his gecko and his long-tailed lizard at Petco, keeping them in his house under a heat lamp. On the topic of reptiles, my step-dad keeps a female banana ball python in our house named Cali. She doesn’t get out of the house much but she is well fed, a steady diet of rats from Petco. Lindsay Lee owns a turtle which seems like an acquired choice of pet, but she loves it all the same. Even though people own pets other than dogs or cats, they too can be as interesting, coming in all shapes and sizes. One of the most seemingly common shapes of dog in Livingston is the wie-
ner, or wiener-dog. Colin Marks has three sleek-coated wiener dogs, Lily, Rosy, and Moose. Rosy and Moose are younger than Lily, and are much more rambunctious and energetic. At our household we have 6 dachshund: Tiny, Griz, Bear, Cinder, Ozwald, and Camy, a proper pack of wieners. On another note, a more aquatic one, the BPA members bought a ‘betta’ fish at PetSmart in Billings, and named it, “Gaylord”. It currently splits its time between Mr. Lende’s room and Jaia Wagman’s house. For now, at least.
Gavin Volk’s snake Cali coils up in her enclosure.
Pets from left to right: Bella and Louie, Dibs and Odin, Lovelygirl, Cally, Patches, and Kona