The Skier Scribbler - October 2020

THE

Established 2010 in Aspen,CO OCTOBER,2020 ASPEN HIGH SCHOOL

SKIER SCRIBBLER

Photo by Tessa Guthrie Oodles of mini orange pumpkins for sale in Paonia, Colorado.

PAGE 2 SKIER NEWS The adults have the information, why don’t the students? October 2020

Kayla Tehrani, Business Manager

On October 5, the ASD school board made the final decision that students will be returning back to school in a hybrid form starting October 26. The lack of communication with the students about the new form of school became a concern as, parents and staff had information on the topic and students did not until recently. When decisions like this are made, the board puts together a public meeting in which any member of the public can come in and speak on the topic at hand. Usually, students are not represented in these types of conversations or meetings because they are not directly informed about them. Students don’t get emails or any information at all about board meetings and what goes on with the school in general. They could get information, but students are not directly contacted about the meetings. The decision to bring students back to school was made on the 5th of October, and most parents and faculty knew this decision was made, but students were not informed about this decision or given any information about how it will work until October 12 and 13. Eric Phillips, a

Photo by Kayla Tehrani Students choosing to do hybrid will return to school whether they feel they understand the schedule or not

freshman at AHS, feels as though students should have been informed about the board meeting. “It would’ve been great if we were informed about the board meeting because I think having a student voice in there would’ve been beneficial to how the deci-

Everything you need to know about AHS’s new hybrid schedule Hannah Smith, News Editor

Aspen High School students have not set foot on campus since March 11th, and now, after seven months, students will be allowed to return to in-person learning. On October 12th a new hybrid learning schedule will be tested virtually, and on the 26th, the schedule will officially permit students to return to hybrid in-person study. This article has everything that parents, teachers, and students need to know about the hybrid schedule, as well as what returning back to school will look like for the foreseeable future. AHS students have the option to either remain online or return to campus partially in a hybrid learning format. According to AHS principal, Sarah Strassburger, as of October 7th, 490 parents responded to a survey asking whether their child would be returning to campus or remaining online. Out of the 490 surveys, 100 students declared that they would continue online. Although this number fluctuates daily due to incoming responses, it indicates that there is a mixed response surrounding AHS student’s return to campus.

What is hybrid learning? Hybrid learning is an educational approach that incorporates both in-person education and virtual learning. This form of education is about finding the safest possibilities for in-person learning. Many schools across the country have chosen the route of hybrid learning in order to meet the needs of the student body as a whole, and help students adapt to the varying situations. With hybrid learning, students can take

ownership of their own education and what works best for them. Both face to face and virtual learning have benefits and weaknesses (depending on personal needs).

The new hybrid schedule The new schedule is a big departure from AHS’ current one. For starters, classes will begin at 9 am rather than 8 am. This time frame was established due to the need to run two bus routes, one for AES, and one for AMS and AHS. 9 am classes also provide time for office hours in the morning before regular classes begin. Wednesdays will be virtual for everyone. Along with these adjustments, the daily two hour break period will be shortened to 40 minutes. Every class will be lengthened to 85 minutes, with four class periods on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday. AHS math teacher, Josh Anderson, has also creatively allegorized a system to balance class sizes, as well as limit the total amount of people present in the building at any given time. While the division begins with an alpha split, it should be noted that there is a possibility that some students will be moved to a different cohort to further balance class sizes. Each week, the two cohorts will alternate learning styles.

Acknowledgments This schedule was created by the ASD task force members of teachers, staff, parents, students, and other contributors of the Aspen District. Without them, this possibility of in-person learning would not be plausible.

sion was made,” Phillips said. There were a few emails sent out to students on the 12th and 13th of October giving them information on cohorts and what the new hybrid schedule is going to look like. Prior to the emails, students had minimal information about the sched-

ule, and only knew what was going on because of what teachers or parents were telling them. Laila Khan-Farooqi, a junior at AHS and a Student Senate member, wishes students would’ve gotten more information about the schedule and how things are going to work earlier. “Especially as a Student Senate member, I feel as though the hybrid schedule should have been more thoroughly discussed with the student body, as this change affects us greatly and we didn’t receive any information until recently,” Khan-Farooqi said. Overall, a lot of the student body finds this change more frustrating and confusing because they weren’t aware of how the hybrid schedule was going to work until recently. Katie Dangler, a junior at AHS, believes that this transition to hybrid would’ve been much more trouble-free if students knew what was coming their way earlier. “Not knowing anything about the schedule for going back to school is making it more stressful to go back, more than it would be normally. This is already going to be a different school year, so it would have made it easier knowing more about the schedule,” Dangler said.

AES reopening sparks hope for AMS, AHS Emily Kinney, Editor-in-chief

The Google Meets alert pings as students “enter” Katie Fox’s fourth-grade virtual classroom on Wednesday, October 14th. Some students are joining from their bedrooms or kitchens, while others tune in from the Aspen Youth Center where supervision for online learning is taking place. Each student shares a little bit about what is going on in their lives during “Connection Time,” then settles in to listen to a short story. The class then discusses this story, with the students inviting one another to speak, before saying goodbye. A form of classroom community can be felt, even through the screen. This is because students are still engaging with one another and Mrs. Fox, demonstrating what hybrid learning has looked like for AES students this year. With AMS and AHS reopening next week, the staff, parents, and students at AES are sharing what to expect as the ASD community returns partially to campus after a seven month closure due to Coronavirus. This half online, half in person approach is called hybrid learning. Katie Fox is a fourth-grade teacher at AES. Though figuring out teaching logistics was initially daunting, she feels that hybrid learning is now going well. “[Hybrid learning] has been really fun. At first, though, there was a large learning curve, and at the very beginning, [the teachers] were all kind of apprehensive and nervous about what [hybrid learning] would look like,” Fox said. Jim Anderson is the father of a kindergartener at AES. He was also initially unsure about hybrid learning but chose to send his daughter back to school when AES outlined the safety protocols that would be in place to keep students safe. “The fact that [the district] is going out of their way to be conscientious [about safety], to be organized, and attempt [hybird learning] in the best possible way, gave me a lot of confidence in sending my kids back, and [my daughter’s] overall experience has since been positive,” Anderson said. Community participation in things like wearing masks and social distancing has

been crucial to mitigating the Coronavirus’s impact on Aspen. Anderson points out that these guidelines like these are also in place in the elementary school. “As long as [the students] can adhere to the rules that have been set up within [ASD] and that the school is still able to make guidelines that they feel will keep the students safe, I think [the students] are in good hands,” Anderson said. Assistant Superintendent Tharyn Mulbury agrees with Anderson that following the protocols in place is the best way to keep students safe while attending ASD. “If there’s anything I can say to anybody about being nervous [about returning to school], it’s to follow the [Pitkin County] Five C’s of Containment. We have that kind of risk mitigation, and it really lowers the possibility of you catching COVID-19,” Mulberry said. AES students report feeling safe at school, and the response to hybrid learning is mostly positive. Students in Fox’s fourth-grade class enjoy getting to see their classmates on days where they are in school, but cite computer troubles as one of the biggest challenges they face when at home. Most students said that hybrid is not as fun as being in the classroom all the time, but, regardless, are still continuing to work hard in their studies. Hailey Ward is a third grader at AES. She feels that hybrid learning is a much better alternative to the online school model of the spring. “I like [being in person] because with at home learning, you have to learn without a teacher, and you’re just doing the work, but at school, you’re actually learning the work and how to do it better,” Ward said. As AMS and AHS move towards returning, Anderson wants to give credit where credit is due: to the teachers making hybrid learning a possibility. “I just want to give a shout out to the teachers. I have long known that this school district is a special place, and I really appreciate the passion and care that the teachers show in this community; we could not have our amazing schools without amazing teachers,” Anderson said.

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Women of power: AHS front office of leaders person should have the job. I am a woman who has worked The female-powered adminreally hard in my life and I istration office has implementwant to believe that I am where ed some of the progressive I am today because of my hard changes at AHS, like classes work and dedication, not just shifting to hybrid learning. because I am a woman, but Social change has been a conrather because I’m a talented, sequential topic in 2020, and hard-working woman and the womens’ roles in the workmost qualified candidate for the place fits into that discussion. job.” The timing of this all-women In the overall discussion of leadership team highlights the women’s rights, Richards comprogress of women’s social ments on the misconception change. So what does it mean of what it means to ask for to have Sarah Strassburger, equality. Becky Oliver, Martha Rich“We are in a unique time as ards, Larissa Bohn, Alice a country where we have so Black, and Natasha Linn on many people that want to emthe front line for this school brace equality of every kind, year? and then we have another facAlice Black, the AHS extion of people who are very voecutive assistant, hasn’t excal that think that we are asking perienced an all female work for more. And we’re asking for Photo by Sarah Ward environment in her previous Some of the AHS administration team stands proudly in the front office. equality,” Richards said. “There occupations and, based on her “We’re very team oriented, but part of thing that everyone is looking for from are people out there that think experience so far, she is optia great team is trusting the individuals to employees and teammates. The envithat by asking for equality, you’re asking mistic about the remainder of the school go perform their roles. And that is true in ronment that Sarah has put in place puts for more. You are asking for more than year. every single sport, everybody has to do people in a position to be successful,” what you have right now, but you’re not “I think the supportive culture and their job well for the team to do well and Richards said. asking for more than what your straight teamwork are two of our greatest yet you have to rely on each other to do Though this leadership team is promotwhite people have.” strengths. I think it’s important to bring a Though 2020 has been im mersed variety of perspectives to the table when your job well individually. So it’s that yin ing gender equality within their occupaand yang,” Richards said. tional roles, Becky Oliver, the AHS asin shifts and changes, teamwork and it comes to decision making. The lack of Richards believes that the balanced sistant principal, emphasizes that female collaboration have been a weapon for diversity could be a weakness but I think environment of individual work and empowerment is not the motive of hiring this leadership team to fight the unique the current leadership [team] is great at collaborative work this team has created all women. Choosing the most qualified challenges that the education department communicating with department heads. results in better outcomes for the school candidate is the first priority of both the has experienced. Everyone works hard and is supportive as a whole. employer and employee. “If we have learned anything in 2020, of each other,” Black said. “Because there is so much trust, people “I’m all for female rights and empowwe have learned the value of flexibility, Though the consistent collaboration are willing to own their mistakes. And erment as women deserve to be treated creativity, resiliency, grace, empathy, between this team proves to be effective, when you [perform your role well] the equally. Where I get a little frustrated is and the importance of teamwork. The Martha Richards, the AHS athletics didecisions are very thoughtful, they’re when some women believe they or othentire AHS staff is having to navigate rector, points out that a team of women is very thorough, and when a mistake is ers should have a position rather than a these new challenges together this year,” composed not only of good collaboration made, people own it and they say ‘how man simply because they are a woman,” Oliver said. but of independent responsibility. can I make it better’ and that is someOliver said. “I believe the most qualified Stef Wojcik, News Editor

Women in Aviation chapter is coming to Aspen basic hope here is that we can have some and a member of Women in Aviation fun events, get more people interested International. She is looking forward to Kate Short, Aspen Flight Academy in aviation, and also kind of connect the participating in mentorship opportunities director, has worked hard over the last adult aviators in the area with the youth and learning more about aviation. year to make aviation more accessible aviators in the area so there are some “[WAI] seemed really cool because to students in the ASD. Short’s latest mentorship opportunities,” Short said. you have the opportunity to meet people strategy to make aviation appealing who are in the aviation industry and to students is the creation of a learn about their experiences with havWomen in Aviation chapter here in ing a career in aviation. There are not Western Colorado. a whole lot of women in aviation and Women in Aviation International other STEM fields at the moment, so (WAI) is an organization aimed at I thought it would be cool to see what exposing women, or any gender, as it is like and also because there are anyone can join, to women in aviopportunities to be involved in local ation careers. After seeing that the aviation,” Axelman said. Western Slope lacked a WAI chapSince last year, Short has noticed an ter, Short found the necessary 10 increase in female pilots in the Aspen members to start a chapter which Flight Academy, with her Aviation 1 now includes 15 women and men. class going from three enrolled female About half of these members are pilots to ten. Short hopes to continue professionals in the aviation field, to inspire anyone to get into aviation. ranging from flight instructors to “I hope to be a good enough role airport employees, while the other Photo courtesy of Aspen Flight Academy model for everyone to see that they half are students at ASD. AHS sophomore Bennett Jones participates in a flight with should try something outside of their “We have such a big and the Aspen Flight Academy. comfort zone because I didn’t do that growing aviation program now, I Harper Axelman is a sophomore, when I was young…. I just didn’t think thought it would be cool to start a chapand Skier Scribbler staff writer at AHS [aviation] was something I could do, so ter and get more people involved. The Emily Kinney, Editor-in-Chief

I want to help other people see that they should go take the chance and that you’ll probably like it,” Short said. Axelman would also like to see more engagement in the aviation community. “In the future, it would be cool to see more diversity in the aviation field because right now the majority of people in aviation are men and are white, so it would be cool to see more inclusivity and more people have the opportunity to have a career in aviation,” Axelman said. Short agrees that more people who have the opportunity to pursue a career in aviation, the better the industry will be. “I think that the more diversity you can get in a field, the better it becomes. Hopefully, this is a small way we can begin working towards this over time,” Short said. Anyone who is interested can join the Western Slope chapter of WAI by reaching out to Kate Short and paying a yearly fee. More information can be found on the WAI Website.

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Confirming your sl(hopes) this winter Annika Nichols, Staff Writer

Aspen locals make it a point to spend as much time outside as possible. Despite the different things locals enjoy doing outdoors, most locals can agree skiing outweighs all. Last season, locals and passionate skiers were left heartbroken as Aspen/Snowmass closed down all ski areas in March, along with every other ski area in Colorado closing early spring due to COVID-19. With fall in full swing and winter just around the corner, the Aspen community now questions what this winter will look like as a result of COVID. Ski co’s operations, like every other company during this time, have changed drastically as a result of COVID. Virtual meetings have become a common theme for both schools and businesses like Ski Co to operate and figure out their plan for this winter. Ski Co’s current plan is very flexible right now. Senior communications manager for Aspen Skiing Company, Tucker Vest Burton comments on how Ski Co operations have been impacted. “So, [COVID] has definitely impacted every role and aspect in Ski Co and I think it is also offering silver linings and opportunities to get creative and find new perspectives, and sort of see[ing] how we can still operate within these times,” Vest Burton said. Summer offered many opportunities for Ski Co to create new plans, which may be implemented during the ski season, through running the gondolas, camp Aspen/Snowmass, and the bike park this summer. Whether it’s waiting in line to get on the chairlift or the changes in lift ticket prices, like the $320 increase on chamber-discount passes which goes up to a $449 increase after Nov. 13, to spread out crowds during peak periods, such as winter break and president’s weekend, many changes have been made this winter to keep everyone healthy and the mountains open. “I think that for the first time in a while we are all going to feel this sense of community through being able to enjoy something our community is passionate about once again,” Vest Burton said.

Another aspect that will be different as a result of COVID is the on-mountain dining experience. Aspen/ Snowmass has updated their app to make it so people can order food ahead of time, and they have also created new outdoor seating experiences. Matt Doyle, Executive Sous Chef at the Sundeck, speaks about how operations at the sundeck will look in contrast to previous years. “Offering to-go food is going to be a difficult adjustment just because we have never done it before and our guests are not accustomed to it being offered at the Sundeck. This is one of those plans that until we see it in action we won’t know how best it’s going to work for us,” Doyle said. The main thing to keep in mind is that this whole winter will be fluctuating and changes still may occur as a result of the Health Department and new regulations which may arise. One can think of it as the whole community figuring it out together. “We are coming into this winter season facing a whole new set of challenges, and we really won’t know what is going to work or not until we see our plans in action. We are definitely going to have to make changes on the fly as we learn an entirely new routine,” Doyle said.

Photo by Annika Nichols Snowy landscape on Aspen mountain during the 2018/2019 ski season.

Everything you need to know about the international organization POW Sophia Grieper, Staff Writer

Protect Our Winters, POW, which has accumulated over 130,000 supporters over the years, was founded in 2007 after pro snowboarder Jeremy Jones observed that many of his favorite resorts were closed due to lack of snow. POW’s current focus is how climate change might impact the outdoor sports industry. According to the organizations website, “Our policy agenda consists of a four-pronged approach to climate solutions including clean energy, clean transportation, carbon pricing and protecting public lands from fossil fuel extraction. We’ve chosen to focus on these four

areas because of their broad reaching impact to climate, their possibility for success in policy and their ability to be enacted on the individual and collective scale.” The four initiatives that POW is currently working on are Support the Core Act, Protect the Arctic Refuge, Stop the Money Pipeline, and Rebuild with Clean Energy. The Support the Core Act initiative is working to pass the Colorado Outdoor Recreation and Economy (CORE) Act. According to the website, “The CORE Act will protect 400,000 acres of public land in CO, establishing new wilderness areas and safeguarding existing outdoor

recreation opportunities.” The Protect the Arctic Refuge agenda is trying to stop the use of the Arctic Refuge, which is in Alaska, for oil and gas development as well as for drilling. The goal of the Stop the Money Pipeline initiative is to stop the funding of dirty energy that comes from banks, insurance companies, asset managers, and institutional investors. The Rebuild with Clean Energy campaign is trying to decrease the impacts of climate change on outdoor recreation by rebuilding the U.S. with clean energy. POW is also located in Canada, France, the U.K., Australia, and Japan, among other countries. These other

locations are pretty similar to the U.S. location as most of them are also focusing on the climate crisis and how that will impact many outdoor sports and activities. To help POW and many other organizations in their fight against climate change there are many ways that individuals can take action. One is to vote for legislators and politicians who will help the fight against climate change. You can also donate to any of the organizations fighting against climate change, to donate to POW go to its website. Via each agenda page, you can also email members of Congress or the Senate regarding specific initiatives.

October 2020

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PEOPLE OF ASPEN

People of Aspen: Kris Koneval

much good it was doing for me.” Yoga has become a staple of modern After only about a month and Western culture and is especially proma half of regularly practicing inent in Aspen’s high-end society. This yoga, Koneval decided to obtain discipline has impacted many lives, his teacher training at Arjuna with people practicing yoga recreationto expand his knowledge of the ally, using it to supplement other sports, practice. In 2017, Koneval travor integrating it into a part of their eled to the Ghosh Yoga College daily life. Aspen local Kris Koneval in Kolkata, India. He participathas implemented yoga into a part of his ed in a prescriptive yoga trainidentity. ing with Guru Bishnu Ghosh’s Koneval, a snowcat operator for the granddaughter, Muktamala. Aspen Mountain Sundeck for the last “Until COVID, I had only 15 years, works weekdays throughout missed 4 days of practice in a the winter months waking up at 4:30 studio in two years, and I have A.M and finishing at 9 A.M. He then practiced more times then there hustles to make it to the 9:30 Bikram are days in a year,” Koneval style class at Arjuna Yoga or goes said. skiing. If Koneval doesn’t make it to In 2018, Koneval traveled to the 9:30 class, he makes it to the 12:00 Malaga, Spain and completed class. levels 1, 2, and 3 of a Core 26 “Skiing has been my biggest passion master teacher training course since I moved [here] 20 years ago,” Kowith Tony Sanchez, a solo neval said. “At that point, I still didn’t practitioner of yoga for over even know the difference between 40 years. Additionally, Kone[yoga styles] Bikram and Vinyasa.” val completed numerous yoga Koneval experienced several injuworkshops where he has been ries over the years as he approached able to build on his skills and age forty due to frequently skiing and mountain biking. He knew he needed a Photo Courtesy of Kris Koneval mindfulness. “Due to work, skiing or sleepdiscipline that placed less pressure on Koneval hangs upside down in an intensive yoga pose. ing wrong, it’s amazing how his body. first hot yoga class, and I hated it. I little injuries can affect the body but also “Over the last five years, yoga has couldn’t stand the heat, let alone [stand] on your mental state,” Koneval said. slowly become a bigger passion for on 1 foot,” Koneval added. “But I had “Yoga is a daily practice for me, not just me as I needed a way to heal the body made a promise that I would go every in the studio, but outside of it. I try to instead of destroying it,” Koneval said. day for the first month, and I did, and implement as much calm breathing as I He gave up mountain biking and took I pretty much hated every second that can outside the studio, especially when up yoga. I was in the hot room; the only reason driving in this valley!” “Just over five years ago, I took my why I stayed was because I knew how Kaelyn Kroeger, Writing Editor

AHS welcomes new School RESOURCE Officer Katelyn O’Callaghan, Editor-in-Chief

AHS is welcoming a new School Resource Officer (SRO), Cam Daniel, a former addiction counselor and Sheriff deputy who is determined to be a resource to students rather than a disciplinarian. AHS hired Daniel as the new SRO during summer break. For the past three years, he worked as a Pitkin County Sheriff deputy. Before becoming a deputy, Daniel was an addiction counselor at YouthZone and worked at Valley View Hospital’s Youth Recovery Center, where he helped treat kids with addiction and mental health issues. Through his experience at YouthZone and the Youth Recovery Center, Daniel discovered he wanted to help reform law enforcement. “I wanted to bring a new light to law enforcement and some of the ways they [police] work with people with addiction and mental health issues,” Daniel said. Daniel believes being the SRO is the perfect blend of his previous profession and law enforcement. He believes he can be a resource for teens as he has seen the depths of addiction and behavioral issues and understands the daily struggles of teenage life. Daniel approaches situations with empathy rather than discipline. “My approach has always been to

understand where kids are coming from. I was kind of a troubled kid growing up, so I get that each person has their reasons as to why they are struggling. Opposed to me coming in and trying to fix it, I genuinely try to see where they are coming from and hear them out.” Daniel said. “I just treat people the way I would hope someone would treat me.” Emma Chiles, a former AHS student, worked with Daniel during her sophomore year through the YouthZone program. She formed a strong connection with him that continued beyond the program. During Chiles sophomore year of College, she reached out to Daniel for help with difficulties she was facing. ”He’s a very cool guy, super easy to talk to, and very accepting. He’s not judgmental at all,” Chiles said. “He went above and beyond at his job and truly helped me.” The director of Valley View’s Hospital’s Youth Recovery center, Janeil Sowards, feels that Daniel will be an asset to AHS due to his work ethic and empathetic nature. “Cam is simply phenomenal. He’s very helpful, social, honest, empathetic, and a good motivator. He’s got a great personality, and he’s good with teenagers. He works well with everybody,” Sowards said. Lori Mueller, the Executive Director of

YouthZone, believes Daniel will strive to connect with the students and engage with the community. “You guys [the students] are gonna have so much fun with him [Daniel]! He really wants to get to know the kids and be engaged and be a part of the community,” Mueller said. With the prevalence of police brutality throughout the U.S. and the recent murders of George Floyd and Breonna Taylor, Daniel hopes to help repair the damaged relationship between cops and citizens. “I’d like to see relationships between how people view cops improve. And have people not look at me disciplinarian, but rather a resource for someone to come talk to.” Daniel aspires to create an atmosphere of transparency between himself and the community at AHS, and be a resource to students and faculty. “I hope that everyone, whether it’s teachers or students, comes and talks to me. I want them to know I’m a resource that is trying to help and not just trying to get someone in trouble. I want to problem-solve and figure out what we can do to utilize resources within the community to help someone before we use law enforcement as a last means,” Daniel said.

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The fast-paced life of “Slo-man”

Photo by Scott Nichols A cut out of “Slo-man” rafting.

Annika Nichols, Staff Writer

Mountain guides are the pinnacle of Aspen’s outdoor community because of their ambition and dedication to doing what they are truly passionate about. Bob Sloezen, more commonly known by his friends as “Slo-man,” moved from New Jersey to Aspen in 1974. Today, he is a well-known guide and mountaineer throughout the community and inspires many others in the valley who share a passion for the outdoors. Sloezen has spent his years in this valley paragliding, skiing, climbing, guiding, and more; embodying the outdoor lifestyle. Before his outdoor career, Sloezen worked in a diesel shop. He found himself infatuated with cars, engines, vehicles, and mechanics. He spent his weekends driving with friends to visit the race track. “Aspen came to my knowledge from a Christmas gift from my brother-in-law and sister. They’d bought me a pair of ski poles, and they were Aspen ski poles. I don’t think I’d ever heard of Aspen before that moment,” Sloezen said. Upon arriving in El Jebel for the first time in 1974, when it was merely a trailer park with a laundromat, Slozen got a job at Pitemman’s motors and found himself spending his time on the mountains at any possible opportunity. “We used to go and we bought this old rope and harnesses and these repelling devices and we would go and find cliffs with trees on top that we could anchor the rope to and repel down the cliff. The sport was to see how many times you touched the cliff, the least amount won,” Sloezen said. Through years of dedication to mountaineering, Slozen summited Everest three times in his life starting in 1991 as a pro guide. Although many believe this is one of his greatest accomplishments, Solezen believes Cassin Ridge on Mt. Mckinley was one of his greatest. “I was inspired to push myself and push my limits. It took a long time, probably 20 years of climbing before I had the confidence or skill level to do that,” Sloezen said. Sloezen, now retired, continues to spend as much time as possible outdoors. To this day, Sloezen remains passionate about mountaineering, hiking, biking, camping, and is extremely passionate about rafting. He also continues to embody Aspen’s values as a mountaineering and skiing town. “The thing that made me passionate is the same thing that keeps me passionate these days: the self-challenge, the freedom of it, the scenery, the environment, the actual natural part of our life,” Sloezen said.

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Or do the seniors have it worse? The weird life of senior year online Kayla Tehrani, Business Manager

Through the challenges that 2020 has brought upon the community and the school, one of the biggest issues is the class of 2021 doing their senior year of school online. Senior year is usually a monumental moment in one’s high school career, but this year the senior class has a completely different experience coming their way. Since the class of 2021 started their year online, and now is moving towards a hybrid schedule, it was a known fact that this school year was going to be different for them. Seniors are missing out on a lot of the things that make senior year memorable, which is causing some stress. This year has been very unpredictable for the class of 2021, but they are working hard to make it the best they can. As a leader of multiple clubs in the school, Macy Hopkinson, a senior at AHS, has a lot on her plate. Hopkinson is the President & Founder of Power to Pakistan, President of National Honor Society, Co-President of National Business Honor Society, and Vice President of FBLA. She is also a part of the new Mu Alpha Theta club, helps out with BETA club, a SALT member, and is in the Aspen Education Foundation club. “On top of that I am an IB Diploma student and have so many IAs to write, my EE, my CAS project, and college

Photo courtesy of Jeremy Martin AHS Senior Jeremy Martin struggles to stay awake and pay attention during online classes.

applications to write. Not to mention, school in general just keeps getting harder,” Hopkinson said.

Do freshman have it the worst? Freshman entering AHS online Stef Wojcik, News Editor

August has brought on a set of challenges differing from the “regular” issues of 2020, as schools are currently transitioning to hybrid or distance-learning. The freshmen, however, are the least equipped out of all of the grade levels. High school can be daunting for many students, but joining a new school without actually entering the school can be confusing. Though seniors may be online for their last year of high school, freshmen have had to adapt the most by balancing what they have heard about high school with what their reality is. Brooke O’Sullivan, a freshman at AHS, Photo courtesy of Bridger Thompson has adapted well to the academic changes Bridger Thompson, freshman, attends virtual classes. they’ve experienced, both by shifting online the environment of the commons, a few of and entering the high school. But they notice AHS’ notable qualities. some gaps in how “It is hard to say what I am excited about they imagined high school to be. in my freshman year because we cannot do “I feel like [online school] definitely takes the things that I was excited to do this year,” away the freshman experience of having the Thompson said. chance to meet upperclassmen and figure out “It has been less nerve wracking and pretty how we want to guide ourselves through high easy to adapt because you don’t have to be school,” O’Sullivan said. around the scarier aspects of starting high,” A fellow freshman, Gia Henrichon, feels O’Sullivan said. “In addition to that though, I that online school has delayed her inaugurafeel like we also are missing out on the social tion into high school and has also changed the aspect of being in highschool and surrounding expectations of entering high school ourselves with people who are older than us. “Some of us students don’t really know Even though many aspects of high school our way around the high school yet. I just are different from what freshmen expected, feel that we aren’t really in high school yet,” these three freshmen are hopeful for when Henrichon said. they can truly have the high school experiComing into freshman year, one hears ence. stories about the unique aspects of high “I’m just excited to get to know so many school. But Bridger Thompson, another AHS new people, even if it’s virtual, and have a freshman, has yet to experience Ex Ed and great time,” Henrichon said.

She also runs cross country, ski races, plays tennis, and helps out to increase

school spirit and team inclusivity. Although she is currently extremely busy, she enjoys a challenge once in a while. Usually, senior year is full of fun traditions and big decisions. Seniors have traditions like senior homecoming, football games, senior prom, senior breakfast, touching the boat for the first time, ringing the bell after submitting your first application, etc. Daniel Jansen, a senior at AHS, is upset about the situation, but has come to terms with it. “I’ve accepted that being a senior at Aspen High School for the class of 2021 means not having certain traditions such as sitting on the boat or maybe even prom when looking further down the road. I would like to make one thing clear though, I have accepted these facts but that does not mean that I am any less devastated as a result of these changes,” Jansen said. Coming in as a new student for his senior year, Hayes Beneson, AHS senior, never imagined himself doing school online in any capacity. Beneson enjoys the extra sleep he gets because of the online schedule, but struggles with the lack of social interaction throughout school. “The drawback for me is that being online makes it harder for me to meet new people, and experience the school. Part of school for me has always been the social aspect, and online classes really takes away from that,” Beneson said.

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First time voters share thoughts on the upcoming election drop box or in the mail before the The percentage of young Amerelection deadline. I recently received icans, ages 18-29, planning on my ballot in the mail and plan to participating in this year’s election complete the ballot and drop it off is expected to exceed all previous at my ballot box, Snowmass Village elections since 2008, according to a Town Hall, today,” Forman said on Harvard Youth Poll. Seniors at AsOctober 14th. pen High School will be contributYouth voters in Aspen are not just ing to this high voter turnout, with looking to cast their vote, but to also many planning to cast their votes be educated about their decisions before the November 3rd election. when filling out the ballot. Forman is Less than half of eligible voters making sure he knows the ins-andages 18-29 voted in the last presouts of all ballot measures through idential election according to the things like political party endorseNew York Times. Youth have cited ments and party seminars, among feeling like no candidates represent other things. them, their vote doesn’t count, or “While it may seem like a grueljust a general disinterest in the proing task to ‘read the fine print’ of cess of democracy when discussing every ballot measure and candidate’s why they don’t vote. policies, the number of resources that Voter and AHS senior Hayes exist in this county are unheard of Benenson is planning on voting in elsewhere,” Forman said. this year’s election and is doing so Educating herself about the ballot to exercise his rights. has led Hopkinson to find issues she “I’m voting because I can. I want is passionate about and will vote to my voice to be heard and to have support. an impact on our state and country, “I feel strongly about the envieven if it isn’t a large one,” Benenronment. I understand that we must son said. Photo by Emily Kinney have a strong economy to fuel such Macy Hopkinson is also an environmental action, but we need Voters can use things like the 2020 Colorado “Blue Book” or ballotpedia.org to learn more about issues on the 2020 ballot. eligible voter and senior at AHS. to tax things that are harming the Hopkinson is excited to vote and environment so that environmentally Janice Voss Caudill is the Pitkin Caudill’s office started voter registrawill be doing so based on the principles County Clerk and oversees the election tion outreach in August, providing ample friendly practices are cheaper, thus enthat each candidate presents rather than couraging people to choose that option,” process in Pitkin County. Caudill is also time for the youth and other voters to just the political parties. Hopkinson said. predicting a high voter turnout, as her learn how to receive a mail-in ballot, “I’m voting in this election because Armed with education and easier office has mailed out 13,000 ballots to causing a spike in early voter registrait simply is a cool opportunity. I have access to information regarding how to active voters this year. Typically Caudill tion. Noah Forman, an AHS senior and the power to determine the future of our vote, first time voters are sure to make a sends out 12,00 ballots, and, because of first-time voter in 2020 received said country without even graduating high large impact on the 2020 elections. this increase, is giving her office ademail-in ballot. school... by the time of the next election, quate time and resources to process these “It’s going to be the new voters who “[The mail-in voting] process allows I think I will choose a [political] party, are going to determine the election this ballots. Even with these extra resources, for time-efficient and hassle-free voting, but also I believe that the candidates on year. We have the numbers and motivaCaudill is encouraging voters to turn as you simply complete the ballot, both sides do not represent the parties tion to go and make an impact,” Benenin their ballots as early as possible to closely follow the instructions in the enfairly,” Hopkinson said. son said. drop-boxes around Pitkin County. velope, and drop it off either at a ballot Emily Kinney, Editor-in-chief

“Just a hoax”: Pres. Trump is diagnosed with COVID-19 Aja Schiller, News Editor

After months of making light of the severity of the COVID-19 pandemic, President Trump and the first lady were with COVID-19 early October 1st. Pres. Trump announced the news over Twitter, and canceled a Florida campaign rally set to be on Friday, Oct. 2. He was transported to the Walter ReedNational Military Medical Center and left within a few days, citing that he was feeling “really good”. “Don’t be afraid of Covid. Don’t let it dominate your life,” said Pres. Trump on Twitter. His same statement cannot be applied to the 200,000 Americans who have died due to COVID-19 or the 7,396,730 total cases in America and over 200,000 deaths (according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention). Pres. Trump’s diagnosis has been met with speculation and concern. It’s unclear what the government would do in the event Pres. Trump passes away, especially with the high tensions due to the election. After returning to the White House, Pres.

Trump is preparing to resume work in ignorant of Pres. Trump when he told the Oval Office, despite his COVID-19 the American public to not be afraid of diagnosis and no conclusive test to show COVD-19 when one visit to the hospital he is negative. He has also has contincould bankrupt almost half of Ameriued his campaign and held a rally in cans who work in low wage jobs (CBS Sanford, Florida. News). “I’ll walk in there [the audience], I’ll kiss everyone in that audience,” Pres. Trump said during the rally. There’s been a lot of mixed feelings in regards to the President’s diagnosis, especially because he has refused to participate in the next presidential debate if it’s online. Disease doesn’t see wealth or status; treatment Tweeted on October 5 when Pres. Trump left Walter Reed Hospital. does. It was

Americans all around the country are hoping for Pres. Trump and the first lady to stay healthy, and we’re sitting on the edge of our seats for news of the next debate.

Photo courtesy of @realDonaldTrump on Twitter

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AHS senior runs 23 miles for fall adventure Kaelyn Kroger, Writing Editor

Photo courtesy of the @aspenskierathletics instagram Nic Pevny at the end of his golf swing during the state championship tournament.

Nic Pevny gets ready to Par-Tee after golf state championship win Tessa Guthrie, Editor-in-chief On October 6, AHS junior, Nic Pevny, became the first AHS student to individually win the 3A state golf championship. His final collective score over the two day championship was 140: two below par of the 36 hole tournament. The golf tournament at Gunnison’s Dos Rios golf club was against many strong competitors. Seniors Cole Kennedy, Jake Doyle, and Andrew Vallone, also attended the tournament. Pevney began the second day with a lead, but competitors began to catch up. Despite the pressure, Pevny was able to remain steady in his scores as his

competitors faltered. The second place winner, Thayer Plewe, scored only three strokes above Pevny. “I felt a little bit of pressure the second day, but then that calmed down after the first couple of holes. On the back nine the last day, it got pretty close at one point, but I just tried not to think about it too much and not worry about the other players,” Pevny said. In previous years, multiple players on the golf team had come close to a victory, including Jack Pevny, Nic’s brother. In 2018, the golf team won the championship together, however, this year, the team finished 7th overall. However,

Pevny excelled at the tournament. “Winning the tournament felt really awesome. I didn’t really realize how big it was until a couple hours after when I saw how much it had affected me,” Pevny said. Since winning the tournament, Pevny has been contacted by various colleges interested in having him play for them. While Pevny is only a junior, he still appreciated the atmosphere of the team. “The best part of playing golf for me is being able to practice with my friends and go out on the course whenever we want to play. I love competing and playing in tournaments,” Pevny stated.

On Saturday, October 10, AHS senior and life-long local Caden Klein ran the 23 miles from Marble to Maroon Bells in merely 6 hours with his dad. Klein and his dad, Brian Johnson, decided to run a route through Aspen’s wonderful fall scenery. Beginning in Marble, Colorado, the two ran up Leadking Road and down to the Geneva Lake trailhead. From there, they climbed up to Geneva lake and continued up Trail Rider Pass, where they ran down to Snowmass Lake and climbed up Buckskin Pass. Finally, they concluded their route and ran down to the Maroon Bells. “We were very well prepared and this is something that my dad and I love to do, so it is something we were well practiced at,” Klein said. This was the same route that Klein undertook on his 8th Grade outdoor ed, only this time, he did the trail in the opposite direction. He was able to complete a route that took his 8th grade group five days in just six hours. The 23 mile route had a vertical gain of 7,500 feet. The two ran the majority of the course, except for hiking the steep parts. They passed six different lakes, and crossed three separate passes, which Klein said “made for lots of spectacular views”. “The only difficulty was not having enough water. I ran out of water at the top of Buckskin pass so I had about another hour of running without any water, which at that point was difficult considering we had been going for five hours already,” Klein said. Klein explained that he faced few challenges physically and mentally, aside from how long it was. Klein also noted that the surrounding wilderness environment was “so beautiful that I was pretty distracted the whole time”. He explained that getting to run alongside his dad in such a magnificent area was meaningful and enjoyable. With rising temperatures worldwide, Klein also saw the effects of climate change reflected in the absence of what should be a year-round glacier on Snowmass Peak as well as discrepancies in water runoff to surrounding lakes. “Something that was pretty sad was seeing how much climate change has impacted the area too. Snowmass Peak typically has an entire permanent glacier on it and it was totally melted off, which is the first time that it has ever melted entirely.” Klein added, “Not to mention that many lakes were much smaller and some of them were even dried up, like Crater Lake.” Regarding food, Klein exclusively consumed Clif Shot Bloks energy chews and a liter and a half of water, around 1000 calories of food, for the 6 hour run total. “This route was amazingly beautiful with the fall colors and the snowy mountain peaks. It’s a beautiful time of year to be outside,” Klein said.

OPINION The Electoral College: a failure of democracy October 2020

KATELYN O’CALLAGHAN In the 2020 election, Colorado voters will see Colorado Proposition 113, the National Popular Vote Interstate Compact, on their ballots. The proposition will determine if Colorado will use the popular vote system rather than the Electoral College. The topic has sparked debate around whether the Electoral College should continue to exist in our current political climate. While it is difficult to imagine our voting system differently, the Electoral College is plagued with issues that impede the principles of democracy. Voters should vote yes to Proposition 113 to breathe life back into our democratic processes. The Electoral College was created in 1787 by the Framers of the Constitution as an alternative to electing the president by popular vote. The intended purpose was to balance out the ballot, as smaller states feared larger states would dominate the election. To “solve” the issue, the Framers created a system where each state possessed Electoral College votes proportional to the number of senators and house members. This served as an advantage to the smaller states since each state has two senators regardless of size. Additionally, the Electoral College was created because information moved slowly throughout the United States.

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Electors were sent to Washington to stay 5.095 million people, but the population people, for the people, by the people,“ up to date with the news and ultimately in 2020 is 5.8 million. With this populabut the Electoral College goes directly vote for people as they were more intion boom, Colorado is projected to gain against this sentiment. In the 2016 presiformed. This was a reasonable prospect another Electoral College vote. Since dential election, Hillary Clinton won the for the 1700s. However, now, with popular vote by nearly three information moving at the speed million votes but lost to of light rather than the speed of Donald Trump, who won the horseback, the system has become election 77 electoral votes. obsolete. Voting citizens have acThe U.S. claims to live by cess to knowledge with the stroke Lincolns celebrated words, of their fingertips and no longer but how is the Electoral Colneed a representative to make their lege system for ‘the people’ decisions. when it does not allow the Many states have no laws people to elect the candidate requiring electors to vote the same they desire? way as their state, according to the Furthermore, the ElecBrookings Institution. Since the toral College employs too beginning of the Electoral College, much power to swing states. there have been 165 instances of Each election, presidential rouge voting as of 2016. In the chacandidates count on winning Photo by Katelyn O’Callaghan the electoral votes in certain os of the 2016 election, ten members of the Electoral College voted A representation of how the Electoral College suppresses democracy in the states without worrying about United States. or attempted to vote for a candidate popular vote totals. This different from their state’s popular vote. this will not be implemented until Demeans they only need to pay attention Seven of the unfaithful votes counted, cember of 2020, a month after the 2020 to a limited number of states. Instead of while the other three were discredited. election, a significant portion of Coloraserving the country’s needs, candidates Clinton lost five of her pledged electors, do voters will not be represented by the most likely cater to the swing states, and President Trump lost two. While that Electoral College in the election. undermining the foundations of democis not nearly enough Electoral votes to According to the U.S. Census, 4.4 racy the U.S. was founded upon and change the outcome of the election, it million people live in the U.S. territories. caking the presidential election in layers is still imperative to recognize this as a Yet, the territories do not receive any of hypocrisy and irony.The presidential failure of democracy. With the upcoming electoral votes, despite recognizing its election is the supposed to be epitome of election, how can we ensure that electors people as U.S. citizens. NASA astronaut voter expression and American democwill not repeat their behavior? The fate Shane Kimbrough voted in the 2016 racy, yet people’s votes are undervalued of our country should not be determined election while in SPACE, but 4.4 million and diminished by the current system by an honor system that has failed 165 people in the territories did not have the The Electoral College is a disgrace to times, and will likely continue to fail. same right. The U.S. conquered their the ideals America prides itself on. It is As mentioned previously, population land, made a profit of their people, and a 233-year-old compromise to problems mandates the number of electors each forced them to become U.S citizens, that no longer exist. The U.S. should state receives. However, the Census only but don’t allow them to take part in our amplify the voices of its citizens, not happens every ten years. This creates an democratic processes...? Shouldn’t peosuppress them by an obsolete system. By issue as each state’s population size has ple directly impacted by the decisions of voting yes to Proposition 113, Colorathe potential of becoming unrepresentathe U.S. government have a say in who dans can break free of this oppressive tive as states decrease or increase in size. governs them? institution and give the vote back to the For instance, according to the Census, Abraham Lincoln famously said in the people. the population in Colorado in 2010 was Gettysburg Address “Government of the

Editorial: The United States is in need of a mindful Minute Whether it’s breathing exercises, listening to a ringing bell, or simply sitting still, students at AHS have most likely participated in a “mindful minute.” These minutes are exercises in mindfulness, designed to train one’s mind to observe one’s thoughts and feelings without judgement or criticism. During said minutes, students are encouraged to simply acknowledge the thoughts that pass through their heads, accept the validity of these thoughts, then move on, supposedly moving on towards inner positivity and productivity. In this time of extreme national polarization and lack of unity, could this same practice of observing thoughts and deeming them valid be applied to the entire nation? Imagine the entire US sitting down and beginning to acknowledge each other’s perspectives with no judgment, as a mindful minute allows. A true understanding of one’s peers is crucial to the success of democracy and is the only way that the partisan polarization of the US can decrease. A less polarized America means a more productive democracy.

Politicians are out of touch with those The divide created by the party one they represent. Don’t believe me? Ask supports is also harming Americans. the 43% of eligible voters who did While disagreeing on issues of civil not vote in the 2016 Election if they rights may be a valid reason to stop felt there was a candidate whose ideas interacting with a peer or neighbor, poexcited them. Candidates may spend litical ideologies may not be. It is up to months on the election the individual to determine trail, talking to constituwhat issues are political ents about their needs and and which are a matter of spreading their ideas, but human rights; however, it is these needs are not making important that one is open it to Washington. The disto the discussion of both. continuation of the CARES Relationships are becomAct is one example of the ing strained on the basis of needs of Americans not politics, driving the nation being met by those elected further apart. A mindful to serve them. The inabilminute to help people ity of all parties to reach understand why their peers across the aisle, even vote the way they do could EMILY KINNEY to provide assistance to help bring the American Americans who have lost their jobs and people back together. loved ones to a global pandemic, shows A nationwide mindful minute will help that the United States is more in need of those who are making policies truly lisa mindful minute than ever. The polarten to their constituents and inspire more ization of politics is harming Americans unity within the population of the United because their needs can not be met due States. This minute would start by truly to partisan disagreements. listening to one’s fellow Americans and

really working to understand them, without passing any judgment. This, coupled with asking questions to validate other’s experiences in your own brain, will allow for more unity within the United States, as understanding is the basis for all compassion. Unfortunately, we cannot have a nationwide mindful minute. We can, however, take smaller steps within our community to decrease the national polarization that is occurring. These steps begin with setting aside time to have productive conversations with those around you whose experiences may be different from your own. Simply listen and attempt to understand how their life has shaped their opinions. Then take this understanding and move into larger circles, perhaps a neighborhood or city. Social change is driven by large groups with compassion for one another. This compassion stemmed from a mindful minute is the answer to lessening the polarization of the United States. And to think this could all start from sitting quietly in English class for one minute...

PAGE 10 SKIER OPINION The Social Dilemma: “simultaneously utopia and dystopia” October 2020

The quote “Nothing vast enters the world without a curse,” by philosopher Sophocles was the first thing viewers of Netflix’s new documentary, The Social Dilemma, saw. And this quote could not be more relevant to technology. The documentary features multiple tech experts and former employees of big technology companies alerting the public on the issues with technology and social media. Social media has made Generation Z, kids who grew up entirely with social media in their lives, vastly different from the generations before them. Gen Zers have higher levels of depression, anxiety, and other mental health issues than ever recorded. Since 2009, suicide rates for girls aged 10-14 has gone up 159%, while suicide for ages 15-19 has gone up 70%. Social media became available on mobile phones in 2009. Gen Zers are less likely to take risks as well. In the documentary, an expert stated that studies have found that less girls are getting their drivers licences and most teenage girls now have never been on a date and this is linked to social media. Social media is greatly harming young people’s self esteem and mental health. But there is no easy way to get out of it. Tristan Harris, a featured ex-google employee, now works to bring people’s attention to the problems with social media.

“If something is a tool it is just sitting there waiting to be used. Technology lures you in, seduces you, it demands things from you,” Harris said in the documentary. The Social Dilemma illustrates why the business model for technology is unethical, and why that affects so many of today’s youth. For apps such as facebook, the revenue comes from selling ads. The product that social media companies are selling is your attention. Their goal is to keep you on the apps, engaged for as long as possible. This is what makes social media apps business models unique: you are the product. Social media apps work by gathering data on who you are, what you like, what you dislike etc. The algorithms then use this information to customize what you see on the apps. For example, if you start looking up dog collars for sale on the internet, then you might start to see ads pop up on your Instagram for dog products. Or if you like videos of stand up comedy, then you will get more comedy videos suggested to you. These apps have created the ideal platform for advertising, which is why they are so wealthy. One of the biggest consequences of social media is its influence on politics. Because what each person views is customized to their interests, each person is

presented with their own set of facts and information that changes the way they see the world. You might look at another side of politics than you and think how are they so stupid, how are they not recongizing the facts I see? It’s because they aren’t getting those facts. When the

Tessa Guthrie goal of the app is to keep your attention there is no motivation to make sure that everything is factual: fake news is more entertaining. We accept the reality which we are presented with, and when everyone in society has a different reality, there is no way to compromise. “How do you wake up from the matrix when you don’t know you are in the matrix?” Harris said in the documentary.

As a teenager, it’s not realistic to just delete social media even if it’s hurting you. Snapchat is how everyone communicates and makes plans, Instagram is how teeneagers show their lives and keep in touch with each other, Tik Tok is where most cultural trends for Gen Z start; teenagers won’t just take themselves out of the society and choose to exclude themselves. Online communication is now a priority over in person communication. It should be the responsibility of tech companies to alter their business models in order to create ethical businesses. Tech companies need regulation. Every other industry in the market has regulations on it, rules that protect society from being taken advantage of. But, social media companies have no accountability even though they are greatly influential in people’s lives. The former president of Pinterest, Tim Kendall, states that the social media business model is flawed. “We live in a world where a tree is worth more dead, a whale is worth more dead even though we know it is bad for the planet. We go along the religion of profit at all cost- short term thinking. Now hopefully the last straw is that the most valuable thing nowadays is our attention. Us staring at our screens rather than living a rich life,” Kendall said.

Local restaurants (mis)handling of COVID-19 regulations There are many regulations for restaurants to follow in order to be open during the COVID-19 outbreak. The Pitkin County Response and Recovery website labels them as “The Five Commitments to Containment,” which are: maintaining six feet between people who are not in the same household, frequently washing hands, wearing a face covering in public, staying home if sick, and seeking testing if symptoms are experienced. Restaurant-specific regulations in Pitkin County dictate that restaurants must limit groups to eight or fewer. Restaurants can have up to 50% of their maximum capacity, as long as there are not more than 50 people per room, and each table is at least six feet apart. Local restaurants in Aspen have been open and serving customers since early June. The cleanliness quality varies from restaurant to restaurant. I went to four different restaurants to observe how they operated under the new constraints. Hickory House 4/10 The Hickory House is a local breakfast favorite. They have blocked off tables to ensure that customers will be dining six feet apart. Inside and outside seating is available, but the tables on the outside appeared just barely six feet apart which means that the chairs could be less than six feet apart. As I sat in the dining area, I carefully watched each employee as they made their rounds. I observed an employee taking their mask off while near the drink station (the place where

they serve coffees, sodas, hot chocolate, etc), and while in the kitchen. However, most employees kept their masks on. An essential part of operating during COVID-19 is frequently washing hands. As each server bused a table and went into the kitchen to put away the dirty dishes, I timed them. According to the CDC, people should be able to hum the ABCs twice for a full clean. There was not a single time where I hummed the ABCs twice before the server reemerged to check on their tables or with another plate of food. It’s not a law or regulation to wash hands between busing tables, but it’s more sanitary and ensures patrons a clean environment. There were also several small things I noticed, such as servers not sanitizing the sugar holders before putting them away again, or the barbeque sauces already on the table when I sat. After asking an employee a few questions, he said that the maximum occupancy per table was eight people, but if there’s a large family, they let them sit together. He also said that everything on the tables are cleaned before and after each patron and that the restaurant uses strategic seating to ensure that customers are six feet apart. Generally, I would advise against going to the Hickory House if you are especially worried about

contracting COVID-19. Poppycocks 7/10 Poppycocks, like the Hickory House, is a local breakfast favorite. They’ve made a lot of alterations to ensure COVID-19 safety. A big change that has been made is that the restaurant currently takes up about four parking spaces in order to seat their outdoor guests properly. The seating outside is still a bit cramped, but appears to be COVID-19 regulation compliant. Indoor seating is also still available, but some of the tables have been removed to meet the COVID-19 guidelines. They’ve also placed their breakfast and lunch menus under the glass that sits on their tables, although this is only offered on their indoor tables. This helps limit the need to sanitize menus since they’re under the table and can remain untouched. They still use sugar caddies and plastic holders for singularly packaged jellies, which I watched them sanitize after a table left. I also timed the employees at Poppycocks, who all re-emerged from busing plates before my two alphabet songs were finished, leading me to believe that they didn’t wash their hands, or weren’t thorough enough with their wash. Poppycocks had one pitcher that they carried around to refill waters.

Aja Schiller

I consider Poppycocks to be generally clean, although if you’re especially worried about contracting the virus, I would avoid this establishment. Bok Choy 6/10 Bok Choy is nestled next to Zane’s Tavern and replaced Little Ollie’s last December. COVID-19 hasn’t changed too much of their exterior appearance. Bok choy offers both inside and outside seating. They’ve removed a few tables from the inside, although the chairs are not six feet apart. Their outdoor seating is cramped and doesn’t allow for proper spacing. They use paper menus that are thrown away after each use, which is good to help contain the virus. I saw an employee take off her mask once inside the kitchen, although masks were always worn around customers. There were no water pitchers, just glasses of water that were refilled with one large pitcher. If you’re especially worried about spacing and having to sit inside, I wouldn’t recommend Bok Choy. Eating in restaurants is a risky business during this COVID-19 pandemic, but if done properly, it’s possible to keep COVID-19 exposure to a minimum. My personal accounts have to be taken subjectively, as I’m not a health inspector. If you’re looking for a COVID-19 safe way to dine out, I’d recommend ordering take out and doing curbside pick-up or getting take out and eating your food somewhere in nature!

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A generation with stars in their eyes Enola Holmes Zodiac and Horoscope content is An unparalleled form of everywhere, and such material is identification, and a unique lansteadily increasing. guage written across the stars Astrology allows people to explain has fascinated people for severthe unexplained during times of al years: astrology. The practice uncertainty as well. According to of Astrology has existed in learnreligions.com “Astrology offers various forms for thousands a number of things which many peoof years, and recently this fad ple find very desirable: information spread across the internet. and assurance about the future, a Astrology way to be absolved of their current Astrology studies the specific situation and future decisions, and a locations of planets, stars, and way to feel connected to the entire other terrestrial entities at given cosmos.” Astrology provides many Photo courtesy of Vanity Fair with reasons and a feeling of underpoints of time, and uses that inA popular astrology app, “Co-Star”, utilizing astrology to give “a day formation to make judgements at a glance” suggestion. standing of life around them. surrounding a person’s fate Astrological predictions can also similarly to how Zodiac’s define someor status. Astrology does not just make have a placebo effect on people’s minds. one’s personality based on the relative predictions, it can also make specific, The placebo effect is when people positions of the stars and planets at the personalized judgements through a perbelieve something to be true due to pertime of a person’s birth. Horoscopes can son’s ‘Zodiac’ and ‘Horoscope’. forecast someone’s day, month, and even sonal expectation, and this belief results There are twelve Zodiac signs, one in actual physical and mental benefits. year depending on the position of stars for each constellation in the Milky Way For example, if an astrology app or and plants. Galaxy. When someone is born, a Zodiac Why has astrology become so popuastrologist predicts someone to have a sign is assigned to them depending on prosperous month filled with joy, that lar? the location, day, and month they were person may have a good month simply Astrology has swayed in and out of born in. A Zodiac sign can narrow down from belief. the public eye throughout the years. specific personality traits and can even Psyche, psychology, astrology The 1960’s and 70’s were known as the hint to compatibility between others. Astrology is unique in that it com“New Age”, a boom of astrological popExamples of Zodiacs could be that bines many elements: science, art, and ularity that can be credited to a general those born between December 22nd psychology. The intricacy of this study rise in spirituality. Astrology never disthrough January 20th are Capricorn, and leaves a lot of room for the mind to appeared from the public eye, however, those born between August 23rd and decipher, and the notion that alignment it has increased in popularity within the September 20th are Virgo. Capricorns, of the heavens could explain some21st century. under astrology, are hardworking, stubone’s condition, future, or love life is One prominent factor in astrology’s born, and ambitious, while Virgos are new rise in popularity is the internet. En- mind-boggling. artistic, faithful, and observant. Virgos This subject is becoming increasingly tertaining astrology quizzes and memes and Capricorns are known to be very popular, and these recent generation’s athave allowed social media platforms compatible with one another. like Buzzfeed and Instagram to appeal to traction to astrology is partially attributWhile personality traits and compated to the internet and astrology apps. younger generations. ibility can be defined through Zodiac On Buzzfeed, there is a Zodiac section Regardless of if these cosmic puzzles are signs, future predictions can be formed with questionnaires like “We Know Your real or not real, a connection between through what is known as a ‘horoscope’. Dream Vacations Based on Your Zodiac one’s personal life and terrestrial activity Horoscopes forecast a person’s future is intriguing. Sign”. On social media feeds, relatable Hannah Smith, News Editor

The influence of mental health on rap music Brenon Reed, Staff Writer

The National Alliance on Mental Health (NAMI) states that 1 in 5 adults experience a type of mental illness each year. Modern day America has turned a blind eye on rappers affected by mental health despite the influence mental illness has had on rap culture as a whole. Some of the biggest names in rap have shared their experiences with mental health but the lyrics are often overlooked and go unnoticed. For instance, in Kid Cudi’s song, Soundtrack 2 My Life, he displays suicidal ideations as he says, “And a happy ending would be slittin’ my throat”. Although these lines seem concerning, Cudi’s frequent talk about mental health has helped break the silence for other celebrities like Pete Davidson and fellow rapper Travis Scott to open up about their experiences with mental health. Both Davidson and Scott have explicitly said during interviews with The Breakfast Club and Hot 97, that Kid Cudi has saved their lives, through pouring out his own personal emotions and letting others know they aren’t alone when dealing with depression and other mental

illnesses. Likewise, Cudi is aware that he has a platform to help others deal with their own pain. “I try and think about myself as a sacrifice, just to show the kids they ain’t the only ones who up at night” Cudi writes later in the song Soundtrack 2 My Life. For some rappers, making music has helped them cope with their mental illness. Kevin Gates talks about the benefits he receives from creating music in his 2014 interview with Power 106 Los Angeles. “I have to make music. It’s therapeutic to me, I suffer from severe depression so that’s my only way to vent, that’s my only way to release.” Gates says. Denzel Curry, a rapper from Florida, thinks that label companies should be responsible for helping the musicians learn to cope with anxiety and depression. “Writing helps, music does help, but is it enough?” Curry said. “That’s why you go to therapy, for an escape.” The problem for up and coming rappers is that health benefits are not included for their occupation and is most likely not a priority for touring artists. This is due to the stigma around black households not talking about mental is-

sues within their family, as talked about during a Breakfast club interview with David Styles (StylesP). ”It’s difficult as a black man because we come up in households where we don’t really pay attention to family issues.” Styles explained after opening up about the tragic sucide of his daughter. The Royal Mountain Records founder, Menno Versteeg, took a huge step to helping artists cope with mental illnesses. The label started a fund dedicated to getting the help needed for those to learn how to deal with these mental illnesses. An article with popular streaming service; Spotify explains this fund, “[The fund will give signed musicians] access to $1,500 annually for mental health care on a no-questions-asked basis” Stuart Berman explains. This is extremely important for people in this creative field because they are more susceptible to mental health issues, as Dr. Inger Burnett talked about it in an interview with Genius. “There is substantial research that demonstrates that creatives are more likely to suffer from depression and bipolar disorder,” Burnett said.

movie rewiew & summary

Photo by Jenny Ellis Tigist Peshek sits down to watch the Netflix film “Enola Holmes” Jenny Ellis, Staff Writer

The 2020 Netflix movie “Enola Holmes” was released in September and quickly rose to number one on the streaming service’s top 10 list. This film featured well known actors Millie Bobby Brown, Henry Cavill, and Helena Bonham Carter, and also included lesser known actors such as Louis Partridge and Susie Wokoma, an enticing combination for viewers. The film is set in England in 1884 and focuses on a young girl named Enola (Millie Brown) who is the little sister of Sherlock Holmes (Henry Cavill). Enola must find her mother (Helena Carter) after she goes missing. With few clues left by her mom to follow, Enola desperately searches for answers before her brothers send her away to an all girls school. During her search for her mother, Enola ends up running into new enemies and friends while also trying to find her own path. The casting of this movie was excellent. The use of familiar actors known by the intended audience of this film (teens) such as Millie Bobby Brown (known for her role as Eleven in “Stranger Things”) drew in many young viewers. This aspect of the casting most definitely persuaded many to give the movie a go. But in addition to this, the movie launched the career of Louis Partridge, 17, a new breakout star in the industry. This allowed for teen viewers to make connections with this new actor and engage, making the film even more interesting. Along with this, the film focuses on female empowerment in the 1880s. This movie is a good watch for anyone looking for a female hero who is willing to fight for herself. Enola takes no BS from controlling male figures in her life. It is a refreshing take on a teenage female character, because sometimes women in film are portrayed to be focused on chasing boys or shopping. Overall this movie is definitely a show to check out. The strategized casting and fresh storyline of the movie makes this worth the watch. And although the two hour runtime tends to scare people away, the movie doesn’t move too slowly and the runtime is needed. So when you find yourself with two hours of free time give this film a look

COVID-19 appropriate Halloween costumes

Aready feeling

overwhelmed this Halloween season and wondering what to wear? Not to worry, there is still time and a lot of options. Due to COVID-19, finding a costume with a facial covering is most appropriate. With new regulations regarding COVID-19, costumes should have a mask but there are plenty of outfits to choose from this year that can be fun, creative, and easy. Affordable: If you’re not the kind of person to buy a costume for hundreds of dollars, then choosing a simple costume would be the best fit. An easy and good looking costume would be a doctor or nurse. This would be perfect for wearing a mask when out in public and it isn’t very complex. In addition, a mummy or zombie would also be an easy costume to make. All it would take is some makeup, a torn up shirt, or just some toilet paper. These easy costumes are distinctive and mask friendly. Unique costumes: If you are someone who has interest in the dark side, a storm trooper would be a fun costume to buy. Many people love the stories about the galaxy far far away and the unique characters. A storm trooper is widely recognized and is an out of this world choice for a halloween costume! If the darkside is not for you, then dressing as a Jedi or other character from the Star Wars Sage could also be a useful idea. Trendy: Still unsure of what to pick? Try something new! Recently the The characters from the game Among Us, has been a rising trend this year. These special characters come in flickering glow of the an array of different colors and small accessories, such as hats or goggles. It’s a unique and creative opJack o’ Lanterns in the autumn portunity for making a special costume. Even if you don’t play the game, it’s still a fun idea. Another chill and the thrill of slipping into a daztrendy idea is going as someone from a Netflix show. A popular show called Tiger King that came zling costume are visions that come to many out earlier in the year, which was about Joe Exotic and his tigers. It would be a more comedic people’s mind when they think of Halloween, but costume to go as Joe in his odd looking print outfits. this month, what people are anticipating for October These ideas are all spooky and trendy for this 2020 halloween season. There are 31st is not the taste of candy- it is what Halloween plenty to choose from even with the COVID-19 pandemic. Whether you’re as such Events will be like with a global pandemic. celebrating halloween in person or on a computer, you will be well homecoming have been postponed or cancelled due to dressed for the occasion. able be still COVID-19, and many are wondering if they’ll Hannnah Popish, Design Editor

Candy, cobwebs and COVID-19: a unique Halloween Harper Alexman, Staff Writer

to celebrate with traditions like trick or treating on Halloween. Concern, Because Pitkin County is currently under Safer at Home Stage 2: are there However, virus. the of transmission of risk to due happen cannot gatherings large in celebrations alternative ways to celebrate, such as socially distanced costume parties or house decorating, as long as they follow the guidelines set by The Colorado Department of Public Health, like maintaining 6 feet of distance between other households, staying home if you’re sick, and limiting gatherings to 10 people or fewer, in order to keep everyone safe. The North 40, a popular place for celebrating Halloween, began to discuss what halloween would look like in July, with the homeowners board, along with the A Pitkin County Board of Commissioners and Pitkin County Public Health, making the decision to close the neighborhood comis decision This Health. of Department for trick or treating based on what was recommended by the Colorado mon misAva Cherry, Writing Editor supported by the community, and according to a survey done in the North 40 neighborhood, 97.5% conception Covid-19 of risk the reduce of residents supported discouraging trick or treating in order to of Satanists transmission. Donna Bruice, who lives in the North 40 and is a mother of two, portrays them as feels that this decision will help keep families safe, even though it is difficult. gothic teens commit“Kids definitely look forward to trick or treating, so that will be a bummer for ting cult murder, arson and them,” Bruice said. Bruice added that she typically hands out from 800-1000 sacrificing animals or even pieces of candy every Halloween. Bruice feels that alternative celebrayoung children to the devil. Yet, tions, like house decorating and dressing up in costumes, will still allow this is far from the reality of modern for a special holiday, even though it won’t be the same as other years. Satanism. There is no better time to “Usually people from up and down the valley come to our neighborlearn about Satanism as halloween is hood, so it will definitely be different,” Bruice said. approaching. Initially founded by Anothony Mike Wessler, North 40 HOA president and 8th grade math teacher LaVey on April 30, 1966, the Church of Saat AMS, believes that although not being able to celebrate is diffitan stresses secular, autonomous life through cult, following the guidelines set by the Colorado Department rational and occult notions as well as magic of health is essential to keeping the valley healthy. “We rituals. Lavey also wrote the Satanic Bible, want to make sure we’re staying safe, because staying which ecompasses the core values of Satanism, safe means that schools get to reopen, and that we get contains some anti-Christian sentiment, and establishto have a ski season. And those two things can kind es Satan as a symbol rather than a ‘deity’ to be worshipped. of hinge on how well we can stay within the The Satanic Church’s website describes Satan as the charac“Halloween guidelines.” Wessler said. terization of “pride, liberty, and individualism—qualities often is a special time for us, and we are defined as Evil by those who worship external deities, who feel disappointed to not be able to share there is a war between their minds and emotions.” The popularity of our neighborhood with everyone the Church declined in the 80s and 90s, following the Satanic Panic, a this year.” Wessler said in a conspiracy alleging that the Church of Satan was using daycare centers press release. “We wish to abuse and kidnap children. Yet, many divisions of the Church emerged everyone in our valley a shortly after. One of the most notable being the Satanic Temple (TST) founded safe Halloween and by Lucien Greaves and Malcolm Jarry. The Satanic Temple holds a “vehement” a healthy winter distaste for the actions of the Church and TST’s Website deems the Church of Satan season.” “irrelevant and inactive.” The Temple’’s twitter (@satanic_temple_ ) biography notes, “We are the only federally recognized international (non-theistic) religious Satanic organization.” The Satanic Temple is a non-theistic religion that preaches advocacy, peaceful protest, equity, and separation of Church and state. TST professes seven fundamental tenets, many of which contain ideology similar to humanism: -One should strive to act with compassion and empathy toward all creatures in accordance with reason. -The struggle for justice is an ongoing and necessary pursuit that should prevail over laws and institutions. -One’s body is inviolable, subject to one’s own will alone. -The freedoms of others should be respected, including the freedom to offend. To willfully and unjustly encroach upon the freedoms of another is to forgo one’s own. -Beliefs should conform to one’s best scientific understanding of the world. One should take care never to distort scientific facts to fit one’s beliefs. -People are fallible. If one makes a mistake, one should do one’s best to rectify it and resolve any harm that might have been caused. -Every tenet is a guiding principle designed to inspire nobility in action and thought. The spirit of compassion, wisdom, and justice should always prevail over the written or spoken word. The Satanic Temple acknowledges a number of Holidays, the soonest being Halloween. Although some followers of Chrisian religions believe that malicious, satanic worship occurs on Halloween, it is described as, “a holiday to celebrate indulgence and embracing the darkness and its aesthetic,” according to the TST website. Halloween is, however, unlike other Satanic Holidays as it is not closely related to any of the Seven Tenets.

Satanism and Halloween