Issue 6 (Feb. 2019)

Spilled SpilledInk Follow us:

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Founded in 1919

The FCHS Student Newspaper

Feb. 28, 2019

Musical Theatre Pro�ile pgs. 12-13

Math Honor Society pg. 5 Aspiring Animator pg. 9

Varsity Girls Basketball pg. 17 Slur Use pg. 21

Volume 100 Issue 6

3400 Lambkin Way Fort Collins, CO 80525 Phone: (970) 488-8199 Fax: (970) 488-8008

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News

Feb. 28, 2019

20

18

YEARS

OF SPILLED INK This year we are celebrating the 100th year of Spilled Ink by looking back at some interesting clips from past editions of the paper and comparing them to today’s culture and events.

In the 1950s, television looked extremely different from today’s standards.

The article on the right describes that “25 percent of students at FCHS have television sets” in 1953.

The percentage is much smaller than what it currently is in the U.S.; according to the Nielsen’s National Television Household Universe Estimates’ 2017 study, 96.5 percent of American households owned a TV set.

Since the majority of homes now own a TV, it seems like the percentage in 1953 is minimal.

Evidently, TVs are more accessible purchases today than when this article was published. But the fact that a quarter of students had a TV in their homes in 1953 is still impressive; it is indicative of the major popularity television began to have in the 1950s.

Coming out of WWII, there was a huge economic boom in America. It effectively created the idea of suburbia, as more and more people entered the middle class and began to have enough money to spend on more leisure activities. Television is just one piece of this, but it had a large effect on Americans.

With consumerism on the rise, TV offered both the experience of watching a show for the owner and the abililty for companies to advertise in a new, revoluntionary way.

The “Golden Age of Television” also occurred during the 1950s; shows like “I Love Lucy” and “Gunsmoke” aired during that period, de�ining a generation of viewers.

Spilled Ink

In more rural areas, like Fort Collins at the time, there wasn’t as much of an impact as in the cities; this article considers if it would be worth it to “put the TV transmitter for Channel 6 on Lookout Mountain,” to reach Fort Collins too.

Now, TV ownership is the norm. There are far more shows being produced alongside more advanced commericials.

Still, television use continues to evolve and change; more and more people are relying on streaming services like Net�lix, Hulu, and HBO rather than cable, contributing to the culture of “binge-watching” instead of seeing a show on network television at a regular time once a week.

Additionally, after the Internet’s creation and social media coming on the scene, there are more ways people can relax while using technology beyond TV. In terms of entertainment, we’ve changed incredibly from the 1950s.

During the 1950s, there was a propogranda campaign called the “Crusade of Freedom.”

The CIA worked together with marketing companies to in�luence public opinion on the Cold War, while also presenting to foreign countries that Americans had a cohesive view of the war and were mainly patriotic.

The “Crusade for Freedom” was actually just one example of this type of advertising; others included the balloon and lea�let campaign called the “Winds of Freedom.” Evidently, it worked; this Spilled Ink article from 1950 demonstrates that.

FCHS’s involvement with this campaign directly acknowledged the idea of

1950

The comic strip “Peanuts”

by Charles M Schulz is first published.

1951

The 22nd Amendment is created, establishing term limits for Presidents.

1952

The Catcher In the Rye, by J.D. Salinger, is published.

1953

Eisenhower becomes the 34th President.

1954

NBC airs the Tonight Show, the first late night talk show.

1955

Disneyland opens in Anaheim, California.

patriotism by having students recite the “beliefs of the true American” and promoted unity of opinion by saying the freedom pledge in unison. It also was focused on American excellence in a less obvious way, by creating grandeur through performances of the “choir and trumpeteers.”

Many also took the “Crusade for Freedom” as an opportunity to act against the state of Radio Free Europe, in which multiple countries did not have access to uncensored and free media; that is partially why our Student Council donated to the crusade, saying that some of the money would create radios for countries “bordering the iron curtain.”

At the time, the culture of the U.S. was much different from today with an overt focus on winning the “Cold War,” which was essentially an idea war rather than one fought with actual weapons. Their tools

for winning were less about military power and more about propaganda like this. In fact, the public didn’t know these campaigns were created by the CIA until much later, but they were cited as one of the reasons America won the Cold War. Now, propoganda has only evolved. We �irst started to see psychological operations like the one explained in the article in the 1950s; now, modern propoganda is dominated by such approaches and disinformation. With the aid of the internet, propoganda can be even more widespread.

Campaigns are still aimed at U.S. citizens, though it looks less intense than it did in the ’50s In addition, it is unlikely we would have an assembly like this one now. However, the concept of patriotism is still strong and shown in various ways, from hanging American �lags in every classroom to singing the National Athem at assemblies.

1956

Alabama bus segregation laws are declared illegal by the US Supreme Court.

1957

9 AfricanAmerican students enroll in a formerly allwhite school in Little Rock, Arkansas.

1958

NASA is founded.

1959

The Cuban Revolution ends.

INSIDE THE INK

Hidden Side of Teachers News pg. 3

Music of the Month A&E pg. 8

Corrections: Spilled Ink has no corrections to report.

Young at Heart In Depth pg. 14

Attraction to jocks Sports pg. 18

National Emergency Perspectives pg. 20

News

Spilled Ink

Feb. 28, 2019

3

Teacher constantly displays caring nature Sadie Buggle

Science Bowl teams to compete in regionals Hannah Blagg

Staff Writer The Science Bowl regional competition will take place March 16 at Dakota Ridge High School in Littleton.

FCHS will send two teams to regionals, an academic competition that tests students’ knowledge in science and mathematics. Teams will face off in question-and-answer rounds.

“During the competition itself everyone is really tense because it is a fast-paced buzzer competition,” senior Nathan Sima, team captain, said. “It’s your team of four or �ive against the other team. Everyone is really tense during the competition; however, during our substantial free time between rounds, we get to socialize and it’s pretty fun.”

If the team wins regionals, they move on to the National Science Bowl in Washington D.C. This would be Sima’s fourth year competing at nationals at the high-school level.

“It’s pretty fun,” he said. “You meet a lot of people with similar interests to yours. It is a very like-minded group because a lot of them are the brightest science students in the nation. You meet a lot of new and innovative people, and it is an inspiring experience.”

Mock trial team placed �irst in regionals Alex Ellmer

Staff Writer

The FCHS Mock Trial team won the regional competition on Feb. 8 and 9 in Greeley against Northern Colorado teams including Poudre, Fossil, Rocky, Ridgeview, Windsor, and Greeley.

“The Ridgeview teams were amazing and got places 2 and 3, but we got �irst which is phenomenal and well deserved for our club team,” Mock Trial Sponsor Sarah Keller said.

The FCHS team will advance to the state competition on Mar. 8 and 9 in Golden to face the best teams in the state. If the team places high enough, they will continue to nationals facing the best teams throughout the nation.

Other than 4 Year College Fair to occur March 12 Roland Tomsic

Managing Editor

The other than four-year college fair will be held in the spine on Tuesday, March 12, from 10:20 a.m. to 1 p.m.

“Any students that are interested are welcome to come,” Counselor Tanya vigil said. “It will be held during fourth, �ifth, and sixth lunches.”

This fair is geared toward students who are interested in post-secondary education but don’t want to take the typical four-year college route or toward people who want to complete prerequisite classes before entering a four-year program. Venders like FRCC, Aims, Barbizon, and WyoTech will all be there along with roughly 30 others.

News Editor

The walls of P115 are decked out with posters of historical �igures, documents, and events, grouped by time period. Near the ceiling, a line of photographs of each president of the United States hangs in chronological order. The desks sit in a circular pattern facing the front of the classroom. A bookshelf is pressed up against one of the walls, stuffed with textbooks, history novels, and SAT and AP prep books.

In the corner of the room sits the paper-ridden desk of Christine Matthie, social studies teacher and mentor. Matthie has been at FCHS since 1998 and teaches AP US History, US History, AVID, and Mind Center.

Students know and admire Matthie’s caring and loving nature, which she displays in and out of class to students and teachers alike. She constantly gives up her own time to help students with work for other classes or college and test preparation.

Matthie found her love for teaching in her junior year of college, when she began tutoring bilingual students who couldn’t read in San Diego.

“I instantly fell in love with these kids,” she said. “I just felt like my �irst two years of college I didn’t really have an aim or a direction. I was just getting good learning across the board. I just felt like it (the tutoring experience) gave me a purpose.”

Matthie has kept up her passion for life and her strong caring nature through her connection with both religion and a strong �itness regimen.

She began her religious journey at a young age, when in middle school she was struggling and asked her friend if she could go to church with her.

“I wanted to search for my own truth. I wanted to �ind peace. And

Christine Matthie, social studies teacher and mentor, smiles in front of her poster-covered classroom wall. Photo by Sadie Buggle

religion taught me that joy isn’t temporal, joy is eternal,” she said.

Additionally, her rigid workout schedule and healthful diet is something very important to her, as she is a strong believer that our brains are affected by what we eat and what we do. Matthie exercises 6 days a week, and she tries to eat very healthily and takes vitamin supplements and essential oils and fatty acids. She measures herself not in pounds, but in how strong and healthy she feels.

Both her healthy lifestyle and religious beliefs have allowed her caring nature to stay with her through the course of her life.

Matthie has always had this passion for learning and happy and caring nature, and that this can be traced back to her childhood nickname.

“When I was little, my nickname was ‘Bubbles’,” she said. “Mom said I giggled all the time. I think I was born ‘Bubbles.’ It’s the way I chose to see the world.

And I try to remind myself that.”

Matthie strongly believes that a teacher should not only teach the topic at hand, they should teach life lessons and an appreciation for learning of any kind, and should show students they are loved and respected.

“I want to bring to you guys a joy and hope for learning, and a joy and hope for the world. You can look at the world in two ways: glass half full or glass half empty,” she said. “There is a lot of hardship in the world.

Rather than think about how the world is going to hell, I like to think about what I can do every day to make the day better for just one kid.”

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’Merica Day showed divide, sensationalism Molly Lubbers

Editor-in-Chief

“You can’t celebrate America, school says.”

That was the headline splashed across the Fox News website �ive years ago this month; the school in question was actually FCHS. Unused to media attention, we soon became a national news story. That article set off a round of others and sparked a controversy surrounding “’Merica Monday.”

It started when Student Council proposed a dress-up theme be “’Merica Monday” during Spread the Love Week. Originally, the day was stopped by administrators.

One anonymous source quoted in that Fox News article said that administration rejected it out of worry it could exclude international students. Many became outraged and thought it was unfair they couldn’t celebrate America because non-Americans might get offended.

About a dozen protestors gathered outside FCHS on Feb. 5, the day following the Fox News article’s release. They expressed their anger, feeling the decision by administrators was antiAmerica, and proclaimed their own patriotism. Even public �igures like the Sheriff Justin Smith joined the crowd and urged others to take part.

After the controversy gained traction, the administration clari�ied their decision. Poudre School District made a statement that day, acknowledging they felt ’Merica Monday could be counter to the “unifying theme” of Spread the Love Week, but also that it could be disrespectful to America. They stated that the word “’Merica” is slang “often used in a negative, stereotypical way to describe life in the United States.”

Ultimately, the theme was changed to “America Monday.”

On the actual spirit day, over 100 protestors stood along Timberline Road, singing the National anthem and waving American �lags. At that point, the matter was fairly resolved, but the group still remained.

Just �ive years ago, this is fairly recent history. But the divide present in the ’Merica Monday controversy is still evident, and stronger than ever.

After the 2016 election, a polarization between political parties has occurred. People typically are expected to be extreme in their viewpoints, rather than moderate.

We’ve seen this re�lected in heated class discussions, movements started by students, and more.

But the ’Merica Monday controversy doesn’t just show that divide—it also is an example of the sensationalism sometimes exercised by news organizations, despite the code of ethics.

Though Fox News reached out for a statement from the administration, the reporter did not include much of the other side; it quoted only students who felt strongly that the administration rejecting “’Merica Monday” was unpatriotic. While it was an opinion piece, it likely could have bene�ited from a more complete perspective of how FCHS students and administration were reacting.

Instead, the article helped turn a relatively small disagreement into one that caused protests and scrutiny. It’s a testament to how the news contributes to politically-charged controversies, sometimes to the point of overemphasizing their signi�icance.

In this age of quick clickbait and extreme divide, it is important to practice unbiased, truthful journalism.

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News

Feb. 28, 2019

Spilled Ink

Relax: Third quarter can be stressful for everyone, and sometimes what is most needed is a week long break from responsibilities to recuperate and get prepared for the start of the final quarter.

Catch up on sleep, spend time with friends and family, have a spa day, read a new book, have a movie marathon, go outside, or do activities that help relieve stress.

Try something new!

Spring break is a great time to try new things you don’t usually have time to try. Having some time off can give you a chance to explore hobbies like painting, crafting, or writing. You could try a new workout, or even practice your cooking skills.

Editor’s Note: Though Spring Break is known for family trips and tan lines, there are also many things that you can do at home to keep yourself busy if you aren’t traveling this year. Here are some alternative activities for a fun yet beneficial Spring Break.

Volunteer: A great way to give back to your community is through volunteering around town at local organizations such as Food Bank for Larimer County, the Larimer Humane Society, and the Alliance for Suicide Prevention of Larimer County. Using spring break to volunteer and help those less fortunate can be extremely rewarding.

Clean: Through the school year, your room can get messy as there isn’t enough time to actively clean it. Spring break gives you the chance to straighten your room, switch decorations, or revamp it to prepare for the next quarter of school.

Information by Sadie Buggle. Graphics by Jack Hunter. Photos by Molly Lubbers

Spilled Ink

News

Nice as Pi

Feb. 28, 2019

5

Math Honor Society promotes math through Pi Day, more Jenny Nyugen

Guest Writer

Everyone has weaknesses.

Some are directionally challenged.

Others can’t dance.

Certain people struggle to make meals more advanced than cup ramen. And while experts will always rise in �ields where others fall, one thing, without fail, brings humanity to its knees.

M a t h .

In a world full of solutions and stats, it’s impossible to escape math. It spends every waking hour terrifying students in classrooms and causes them to wake up in cold sweats at 2 a.m. For some, there is no outsmarting calculus.

There is only suffering and pain.

However, hidden in the halls of FCHS is Math Honor Society—a coalition of avid math learners and lovers, concealed from the prying eyes of the masses.

“The purpose of the club is to bring students who have a passion for math together and help them give back to the community through the skills that they have,” MHS Vice President Claire Freeman said.

Students with a 3.4 or higher GPA in math have the ability to join, given that they perform ten hours of community service per year and maintain their grades.

Failing to meet these conditions can result in the student being put on probation or kicked out of the club. Members are also required to complete a math activity outside of school and attend at least �ive of the many monthly MHS meetings.

“We have donuts at the start of meetings, so that’s always nice,” MHS Secretary Larry Chen said. “In general, there aren’t a lot of requirements.

There’s not a super high barrier to join. Also, there’s the opportunity to volunteer and tutor others.”

This year, the club put together a system to connect different students with MHS members, helping members get their needed volunteer hours tutoring those who need assistance in certain school subjects.

Any hours spent tutoring count toward community service, whether or not they speci�ically relate to math.

“Joining is a great way to be involved in the school,” Freeman said. “It opens you up to new opportunities to enhance your math skills. You can do fun competitions or go to fun math events with your friends. It’s pretty low commitment compared to other clubs.’

To spread math awareness, MHS is planning to host Pi Day during common lunch on March 14, to celebrate mathematics through the subject’s most familiar, never-ending digit.

There will be a pie eating contest, a pi counting contest, and other events revolving around the food and number.

“It’s really funny to see your teacher being hit in the face with a pie, or just scrambling to eat �ive pies in one minute,” Freeman said. “It’s entertaining!”

Math Honor Society is a place where math enthusiasts can gather and thrive, helping those who may not be as excited about the topic get back on their feet. They are the ones who put the “fun” back in “function.”

“If you have a passion for math, it’s a great way to get to know other people who have the same passion as you. It’s a great club for all students at any age in the school. It’s a great way to also get to know other kids through tutoring and activities like that,” Freeman said, urging young mathematicians to join.

As for those unsure of whether they should attend Pi Day, Chen makes a most compelling argument.

“There’s pie!”

se with sponsor and Justin Brick po a, bb Se n ry Ta , an Freem d students about nities and reminde s Larry Chen, Claire er rtu �ic po of op ty r ee cie nt So lu r os by Sadie Buggle ussed vo Math Hono Feb. 13. They disc g the meeting. Phot From left to right, on rin g du tin th ee on m m e HS th M of wing an of the math problem Eric Kohlbrand follo shared the results d an HS M of ts en the requirem

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A&E

Feb. 28, 2019

Senior creates culinary art, plans to pursue cooking during future Sadie Buggle

Prom dress project to be held on March 6 Rebekah De Priest

Perspectives Editor

The PSD Teen Parent Program and FCHS Student Council will hold the Cinderella Dress Project on March 6, from 3:30-7:30 p.m. at Dora Grace Bridal on South College Avenue in Fort Collins.

The project is a prom dress sale for any PSD students and students in the surrounding districts. Hundreds of new and gently used dresses will be available from $5-$25.

“This is a wonderful opportunity for students to �ind their perfect prom dress without having to pay hundreds of dollars; we have a wonderful selection of dresses in a variety of sizes,” Teen Parent Program Coordinator Melissa Schaefer said. “Prom is an exciting time and we want to help decrease the �inancial stress for our students.”

Orchestras to play at Collaboration Concert Hannah Blagg

Staff Writer

FCHS Orchestras will host a Collaboration Concert on March 12. It will begin at 7:30 p.m. in McNeal Auditorium.

Prior to the performance, students will work with musicians from the Front Range Chamber Players, a group of professional musicians, including Colorado Symphony Orchestra members, to prepare a variety of pieces.

“I do a lot of bringing in professionals to work with kids,” Orchestra Director John Hermanson said. “It de�initely has an impact on the way they perform and the way they think about music, the way they think about the world. And it’s really cool.”

The concert is open to the public and all are invited to attend. The event is free to Poudre School District students.

Non-student admission will be $20.

‘The Little Mermaid’ opens tonight in McNeal Alex Ellmer

Spilled Ink

Staff Writer

The FCHS production of “Disney’s The Little Mermaid” will open tonight and will run through Saturday in the McNeal Theater.

“The production of our show is the stage version including songs, a live musical pit, a lot of special effects, a cast and crew involving many students at the school, and is accurate to the original performance,” stage director Abigael Hyberger said.

The curtain rises tonight, tomorrow, and Saturday at 7 p.m., and the audience is encouraged to be in their seats promptly.

At press time, tickets were still on sale but going quickly. Those interested in seeing the show can visit FCHSperformingarts.com to view the schedule of events, buy tickets, and learn about the other productions they are putting on this year.

News Editor

In a world of competitive, fast-paced cooking shows such as Chopped, The Great British Baking Show, Cutthroat Kitchen, Cake Boss, and Top Chef, cooking and culinary arts have become more than just recreation.

Senior Jack Mannschreck has been cooking since seventh grade, when he got tired of what his mom was making.

“She said, ‘If you don’t like what I’m cooking, why don’t you cook?’ So I did,” Mannschreck said with a smile.

He started out with baking and cooking simple foods such as tacos, and progressed into more complicated foods. He took Catering 1 and Advanced Catering at FCHS to progress his cooking skills, and even worked as a teacher’s aide for a catering class last semester. He is also in Family, Career and Community Leaders of America (FCCLA).

Mannschreck likes cooking because of its usefulness in his daily life.

“It’s just a really good skill to have,” he said. “If you’re hungry, you can just make something. You don’t have to go out to get quality food. It’s really convenient to be able to cook. Plus, I like experimenting with tastes and

trying new �lavors and foods.”

Along with cooking for fun, Mannschreck has competitively cooked in the past. He was a competitor at the state level in a culinary competition both sophomore and junior year, taking home silver and bronze medals respectively.

Mannschreck additionally competed in an Escof�ier culinary competition his sophomore year and placed in the top �ive in the state.

He has stopped competing for cooking because of the intense judging process.

“They judge every aspect of your cooking really harshly, from your safety to your sanitation to your knife cuts. I don’t like to be judged like that,” he said. “I just want to eat my food.”

After graduation, Mannschreck plans to attend Johnson and Wales University, which is known for its culinary program. Although unsure about precisely what he will decide to study, he is considering a major in something business-related and a minor in culinary arts so he can continue that passion.

Meanwhile, Mannschreck is making a living off of his passion for cooking through his job at Cacciatore at Heller’s Kitchen, a local Italian restaurant at which he is a pizza cook.

Staff attempts tidying using KonMari Molly Lubbers

Editor-in-Chief

Recently, the Net�lix series “Tidying Up with Marie Kondo” dropped, causing viewers to join in on the “KonMari Method”—a decluttering practice in which people keep items only if they “spark joy.” Kondo, the professional organizer who created this method, describes that spark as the feeling of holding a puppy or wearing your favorite out�it.

Although the full method involves reviewing clothing, books, papers, komono (miscellaneous items), and sentimental items, our staff tried just the �irst step.

Following Kondo’s advice, we each pulled out every piece of clothing we owned, set it in one pile, and then touched each item to decide if it “sparked joy.” If it did, we kept it, and if it didn’t, we �irst thanked it, then donated it.

Most of us found the initial pile daunting; some owned over 200 pieces of clothing. Kondo argues this is an important step to see how much you own, so it is easier to part with some of it. While that was true, the amount of

Staff members Kelly Warden and Jack Hunter use the KonMari Method to fold a piece of clothing that “sparked joy.” Photo by Molly Lubbers

Staff Review

clothing meant the process took between 40 minutes to over two hours depending on the person.

The main challenge of this process is deciding if something “sparked joy.” Sports Editor Italia Caro found only a few items truly created that feeling and kept some clothing based on utility.

It helped for me to read Kondo’s book and watch her show, because it offered a nuanced perspective.

When I struggled with �iguring out if something sparked joy, I asked two questions: “Is this something I would buy now?” and “Is this

useful to me in the life I envision?”

The �irst question allowed me to let go of clothing I was keeping out of habit rather than love. The second meant essential items I own didn’t go in the trash—for example, my work uniform doesn’t necessarily spark joy, but the future I imagine involves keeping my job, so I didn’t discard it.

Our staff was split on the method; regardless of whether we felt it was truly worth it, we gained emotional understanding of the items we own. It raised questions about why we keep clothing we don’t really like and brought back memories and nostalgia over certain pieces.

A&E

Spilled Ink

So

u

S

m a i n e g r t ndcloud Cultur i t c f i o y p s S u P l ay

Go o

e l g

Download Google Play Music for Chrome.

Sign into your Google account on Chrome or create one.

. Google Play Music Web player.

Go to the Click menu, and choose “upload music.”

Drag and drop files/upload files with select from your computer.

Go to soundcloud. com and make an account. Click “Upload” on the top navigation bar.

Depending on if you’re a “Free” or “Pro” user, you will have a certain number of minutes in the bottom screen that you can upload.

Click “choose file to upload” or drag/drop your file. Soundcloud will transcode it so it can stream on the service. You can add track information as it uploads.

Click the green upload button in Spotify for Artists to make a release. Currently, artists can upload by invite through “Upload Beta,” and must have a US bank account, tax ID, and control distribution rights.

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Feb. 28, 2019

Choose the date it goes live; make sure you upload at least 7 days before the date you wish. You can also add an album image.

d a How to Uplo

Top Streaming Services in U.S. The top 10 percent most-streamed audio makes up 99% percent of total streaming.

SoundCloud - 175,000,000 users Spotify - 170,000,000 users iHeartRadio - 100,000,000 users

Some services will distribute your music for you. An example is “DistroKid,” which is $19.99 annually to upload to various platforms at once. Other services are free to use, but take a percentage of your earnings, like “RouteNote,” which takes 15 percent.

Using DistroKid, earnings per stream use can vary from $.004 to $.01 depending on the platform it was streamed on.

Q&A with sophomore Andon Silvers about rapping/streaming Q: Where do you post your music for people to listen to?

A: Spotify, iTunes, Pandora, iHeartRadio, Youtube, Soundcloud and Amazon music.

Q: How do you go about creating a song?

A: I’ll find a beat or hire someone to make some and then I’ll write down an idea and build off of that.

Q: How long does that usually take?

A: Anywhere to from 5 minutes to 3 hours.

Q: How many people have listened to your stuff?

A: Like over all platforms? Uh, around 50,000.

Q: What would you say is your best song?

A: A song called “Losing You.” Information gathered by Italia Caro, Molly Lubbers, and Kelly Warden; sources: spotify.com, soundcloud.com, pitchfork.com, forbes.com, support.google.com

8

Feb. 28, 2019

A&E Power Chords

by Mike Krol

MUSIC OF THE MONTH

New Release

Mike Krol’s production just sits right. Something about his brand of unhinged, unabashed, overblown garage-punk is un�linchingly invigorating: with distortion-bathed drums, Jack Hunter compressed-to-hell bass, and Head Graphic Artist brittle, roaring guitars, every song rejoices in fuzz and catchy power-pop. Though Playlist I enjoy that sound, Krol has consistently been lacking in I Wonder – Mike Krol lyrical depth. I hoped that during the four years since his Whirlpool – Abernathy last release he would have had King of Carrot Flowers Pt.1 – Neutral Milk Hotel time to write better material, but unfortunately, it’s the same story.

Hire – Girlpool “Power Chords” reads like Krol’s still processing Everybody Thinks They Know – Naked Giants the heartbreak explored on Bee Kind To The Bugs – Culture Abuse his last two albums. There’s no shortage of snappy and B.T.K. – White Reaper smart one-liners and even the occasional clever verse setup, I’m Getting Cold – The Microphones but it’s for the most part stale Overexposed (Enjoy) – Car Seat Headrest and occasionally even whiny. I hate to knock this because it’s Cannonball – Shelf Life clear Krol is genuine and honest in exploring his hurt on this Age Of Consent – New Order record, but you can only rewrite I Only Said – My Bloody Valentine the same song so many times.

I will concede that the album 10:15 Saturday Night – The Cure comes close to making up for Darlatoid – Menace Beach its lack of lyrical depth with the instrumentation. The melodies Crumbling Castle – King Gizzard and the Lizard Wizard are solid, but every chorus hits like a lightning strike. When the band locks in and goes all-out, the energy translates.

It’s hard to keep a smile off my To access the playlist digitally, open the Spotify app face during these moments. on your phone, and click the “Search” button on the Ultimately, this is a shallow, bottom of the screen. Then, click the camera icon in moody, but fun punk album best the upper right of the screen, enjoyed with your brain turned off. and point your camera at the Spotify code to the left.

Spilled Ink 6 Wooden Walls

by Abernathy New Release

Abernathy’s 2018 release “God Handed Me a Cigar and Said Tough Luck Kid” narrowly missed my top 3 albums of last year. I spent quite a bit of time with it, drawn in by its fragile, layered, acoustic sound, as well as Juniper Abernathy’s evocative lyrics and beautifully strained singing voice. It was gloomy, but not without heart, and I found myself eagerly awaiting her next musical endeavor.

Though it lacks the cohesion “Cigar” had, “Six Wooden Walls” is otherwise an improvement on every front. It clocks in at just under 15 minutes, but delivers in such a raw and straightforward manner its impact is comparable to that of a full-length LP. Drifting, cautious, lilting melodies �loat over Abernathy’s intricate and layered guitar work, as she winds her way through simple, personal, and evocative songs, equal parts sad and beautiful. It’s the sound of winter setting in, of ice crystalizing on bedroom windows: frigid and sharp, but still refracting the morning sunrise into tiny rainbows that �lit into the room. This is the most fullyrealized of Abernathy’s visions.

“Cigar” had similar themes, but while it dwelled in that decay and melancholy, this release faces pain, reckons with it, and starts the process of healing. With simple changes of phrase, she rewrites her own narrative, turning defeat into the �irst steps of recovery.

Her work is tender, immediate, disarming, and absolutely worth your time.

In the Aeroplane Over the Sea

by Neutral Milk Hotel Throwback

Widely loved, often ridiculed, mythologized by its reception, “In the Aeroplane Over the Sea” is nothing if not infamous.

If you’re unfamiliar with Neutral Milk Hotel, this album is unlike anything you’ve ever heard. Often described as “fuzzfolk,” its production hinges on tape-machine character and distortion: analog warmth envelops the shimmering singsaws, rich trumpets, overblown acoustic guitars, and distinctive vocals. The band ducks in and out of sparse, confrontational arrangements and in-your-face riotous noise, weaving ideas and moods into a satisfying tracklist.

Though structured expertly, the clear highlights of the album are the �iction and imagery lead singer Jeff Mangum constructs. Inspired primarily by vivid lucid dreams and an intense reaction to his reading of Anne Frank’s diary, the songs are a series of intricate miniature dioramas, each containing its own colorful, compelling, and heartwrenching world. Reoccurring narrative threads loosely tie the story together, enabling emotional reaction to the �iction, but remain vague enough to leave ultimate meaning up to interpretation; this makes it an album that elicits strong personal reactions.

Somewhere in the halls of timeless masterpieces, beside the perfect works of art, among the primary testaments to human artistic achievement, is a place for this album.

“Aeroplane” is the stuff of legend.

Spilled Ink

A&E

Character Creation

Feb. 28, 2019

9

Freshman artist aspires to animation career Jack Hunter

Head Graphic Artist

Something about animation makes it almost universally captivating for kids everywhere.

With its fantastical stories, otherworldly settings, and memorable characters, many of us are drawn in from a young age, and latch onto this medium of storytelling.

W h e r e most of us view animation simply with a d m i ra t i o n as spectators, freshman Ann Ward has long been wanting to take her passion for the art a step further—by endeavoring to make it her career.

W h i l e watching the special features of a movie with her family, her interest was sparked by one speci�ic behind-the scenes clip.

“They showed the sketches they were doing as they began to animate, and I was like, ‘That’s what I want to do.

That’s so cool,’” Ward said.

From a young age, Ward was enamored with Disney’s 3D work in particular.

“Brave was my absolute favorite. I did all this research, because I’m just the kind of person where if I like something I’ll go really deep into it,” Ward said. “I wanted to make something like Brave for myself, and that was part of what got me interested.”

The Disney inspiration is evident in Ward’s illustrations— it’s not as though she’s tracing frames from her favorite childhood movies, but the simple, charming, and slightly cartoon-y style she’s developed certainly feels imbued with the wholesome qualities associated with “golden age” Disney animation.

Especially impactful to her as a child were

the Disney princesses, which have become a driving force in her own character creation.

Ward recalls telling herself, “’OK, Ann, if you want to be a Disney animator, you’ve got to remember you’re gonna be doing princesses and stuff like that.’

So I kind of tried to create my own Disney princesses, and then they just kind of inspire me.”

The characters featured in Ward’s illustrations are still of�icially in their d eve l o p i n g stages, many nameless and without a concrete d e s i g n .

D e s p i t e this, Ward seems to have a strong h a n d l e on her individual creations and their separate identities.

“It’s kind of like they’re different p e o p l e with untold stories, just kind of �loating around in my brain. Every time I draw it’s like bringing new life to them.

It’s the same people, but changed every single time,” Ward said.

It’s only recently that Ward has begun to take the next step in following those animated in�luences by beginning to animate herself. Animation is still “a very, very recent thing” she’s just started exploring, but she’s already learning to use it as a tool to take her art to the next level, primarily seeing it as an opportunity to develop her characters in additional detail.

“I do mostly sketches and drawing, and occasionally I’ll animate something,” Ward said.

“Mostly it’s just drawings that I give a little bit more life to.”

Though some complications have prevented Ward from setting up an online presence for her art, she’s hopeful she’ll be able to showcase her talents digitally soon. Until then, she’s continuing to set her sights high and hone her talents.

“It’s kind of like they’re different people with untold stories, just kind of �loating around in my brain.”— freshman Ann Ward

Editor’s Note: The drawings in the windows of this tower and framing the text were created by freshman Ann Ward.

Graphic by Kelly Warden

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Feb. 28, 2019

In-Depth

Healthy Hearts

Keep a Healthy Weight Being overweight can increase blood pressure and cholesterol levels; it also causes your heart to work harder than it should.

1

The youngest person to have heart surgery was

2 Human hearts weigh less than pound.

1

3

Manage Stress

When you are stressed all the time, your body can’t recover from the rise of cortisol and adrenaline, hurting your heart.

Exercise Often

gallons 2,000 of blood are pumped

4

by your heart each day.

Physical activity minimizes your risk for heart diseases and stroke.

Editor’s Note Molly Lubbers

1minute old.

Eat “Heart Healthy” Foods Fruits and vegetables, whole grains and lean meats are good for your heart.

Avoiding foods with lots of salt or trans fat is also smart.

Spilled Ink

A single heart beats

115,000 every day.

Information gathered by Molly Lubbers; sources: healthline.com, imaginebetterhealth.org Graphic by Jack Hunter

Editor-in-Chief

February is frequently characterized as the month of love due to Valentine’s Day; it is a time in which we re�lect on the importance of people in our lives and celebrate our interpersonal relationships. We are reminded to appreciate what we have, and pursue what makes us happy.

With this idea in mind, we chose the In-Depth word to be “heart” for this month, since it encompassed both that emotion and much more.

Opening on this page, the information found here focuses on the organ, rather than an abstract heart. This is intended to further people’s understanding and appreciation of their hearts, because February is actually American Heart Month.

Page 11 tells the story of foreign exchange student Badreddine Ait Bouchnani. Originally from Morocco, Ait Bouchnani proves the phrase “Home is where the heart is” to be true; he has carved out a space both in Fort Collins and his home country.

Despite not being with his actual family, he has created one here.

The centerfold spread surrounds the spring musical production of “Disney’s The Little Mermaid.” We go behind the scenes to meet some of the people responsible for the show without being in the cast, like stage managers Abigail Hyberger, Anna Hunter and Zoe Luevano. In addition, we cover the person playing Ursula, the villain of the musical.

On page 14, the quirks of local candy store owner Tony Vallejos are detailed. Inspired by the aesthetic of an old 1940s general stores, Vallejos opened the Fort Collins Candy Store Emporium to recreate the joy he felt as a kid in those types of places. Even though his store is vintage, he is young at heart, and infuses the community with his positivity.

How many times do you think a heart beats in a day?

Ben Koenig Freshman

“40,000.”

Rose Barnes Sophomore

“100,000.”

Will Bush Junior

“48,000.”

Emma Goldrich Senior

“629,450.”

Spilled Ink

In-Depth

Home is where the heart is

Feb. 28, 2019

11

Foreign exchange student connects to community

Rebekah De Priest

Perspectives Editor

The sound of planes landing and taking �light was a mere hum as the noise in a Washington airport �illed his ears. The terminal buzzed with hoards of people as junior Badreddine Ait Bouchnani took his �irst steps on American soil.

As he, along with twenty other transfer students from Morocco, awaits airport staff in their brightly colored blue t-shirts, Ait Bouchnani felt as though he had waited his entire life for this moment, for this new opportunity, for the place he would come to see as his second home.

Ait Bouchnani had a reason behind wanting to study in an entirely new country.

With interest in culture, language, and political affairs, he wanted to continue his schoolwork in an environment that would give him the best opportunity to discover new ideas and experiences.

“I just want to learn more as I grow, and I want to learn more about the world and how big it is,” Ait Bouchnani said.

When the transfer program was presented by a teacher from his home in Marrakesh, Morocco, Ait Bouchnani felt it was right for him and was excited for the journey to come.

“It’s a really big opportunity because it opens a lot of doors, makes you independent, and you interact beyond your culture and discover the real you,” Ait Bouchnani said.

When he arrived in the United States, Ait Bouchnani found there was much to be happy about. He made many new friends at FCHS, met his host family, and began his studies at a new school while learning about western culture.

He keeps in contact with his parents and family in Morocco often, and admits he gets homesick from time to time. To keep his spirits from falling too low, he often tries to think about the positives of where he is now, or even memories from Morocco.

Ait Bouchnani thinks fondly about the traditions and culture of his home: from Ramadan, which is a month of fasting, to the Feast of Sacri�ice, which takes place the day after the fast is broken and citizens pray, exchange gifts, and give money to those who need it. Some such traditions he still carries out while away from home.

“There are no people with whom I will be doing my traditions, but there are some religious aspects that I of course will continue to do,” Ait Bouchnani said. “Because my religion of course is who I am, I will continue to do that.”

And with the ful�illment of traditions from his �irst home to keep him company, he has found his own ways to make Fort Collins feel a close second.

“I have made a lot of friends and my host family is here,” Ait Bouchnani said. “I would say I bonded with the city and its community.”

“I just want to learn more as I grow, and I want to learn more about the world and how big it is.”

—junior Badreddine Ait Bouchnani

Above: Junior Badreddine Ait Bouchnani visited various places in the U.S. after moving to Fort Collins earlier this year as a foreign exchange student. Photos courtesy of Ait Bouchnani

Graphics by Jack Hunter

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Feb. 28, 2019

In-Depth

Spilled Ink

Heart’s Desire

Above: During a dress rehearsal, musical theatre members portraying characters from Disney’s “The Little Mermaid” practice on Feb. 19.

Right: Senior Daeyln Nace sings one of her solos in the show, channeling Ursula’s character while doing so. w Photos by Molly Lubbers

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In-Depth

Feb. 28, 2019

13

Music, theater impact senior’s life, perspective Molly Lubbers Editor-in-Chief

Staring up at the stage, she waits in anticipation for the show to begin.

Low murmurs of whispered conversations surround her, the wisps of gossip dissipating as the lights go down. At that moment, the curtains part—she is captivated already, even before the �irst clear voice rings out in song.

That was the groundbreaking moment for

senior Daeyln Nace, as she watched her dad perform Miss Saigon in Denver.

“He played a character who sang the most beautiful song about orphaned children in Vietnam,” Nace said.

“I remember going to see the show when I was really young, and he �inished singing the song and I hadn’t realized that I had started crying. And it wasn’t a few tears—I was ugly crying—and it was really eye-opening, and I remember thinking, I want to do that, I want to be up there.”

Inspired by her experience, she got involved in theater for the �irst time in third grade. Since then, she’s continued to sing and participate in musical theater. Last year, she got her �irst true leading role playing Lady of the Lake in “Monty Python’s Spamalot.”

“It was so cool and so fun, and it really pushed me because the vocals were really challenging. It was a really vocal central role, so I got to sing my heart out and not worry about a lot of other things you have to worry about when it’s a mainly acting role. Because I do love acting, but I’m really music driven,” Nace explained. “The whole thing was so life changing for me, because it really did make me realize that I totally wanted to do something with music in my life.”

For that role, she was nominated for best actress in a leadingrolebytheDenverCenterforthePerformingArts.

“It was so surreal. I still cannot believe that that happened. It was probably one of the best times of life.

I got to go sing and perform with people who were just

as passionate as me,” Nace said. “And just the fact that I was even noticed and nominated is something I’ll never forget, and it’s really really honoring and touching to me.”

This year, she will be playing Ursula in Disney’s “The Little Mermaid.” According to Nace, she wanted to play Ariel as a child, but is more excited to be Ursula now.

“You get to have a lot more freedom to do whatever you want with your character, and move however you want around the stage,” Nace said. “It is so much fun, especially because none of us really are evil, I hope, so it’s fun to act evil.”

Nace worked with her directors to give her own twist to Ursula. To achieve the characterization she wanted, she also had to modify the way she sings to �it Ursula.

“It’s really hard to sing what you’ve learned really well to sing but change it according to what you think your character will feel instead of you,” Nace said.

“It’s really hard to mix them together but once you can get in the �low of it, it’s really amazing the way your character can poke out through your singing.”

As Nace is a senior, Ursula will be her last role in a major production at FCHS. Knowing that it is coming to an end, she’s making the most of her experience.

“I just want to cry all the time, it’s so sad,” Nace said.

“It’s bittersweet because I’m excited to go do other things, but of course I’m always going to miss the theater and miss the people and miss what we’re doing, because it has been such a huge part of my life for so long.”

Thoughtheaterwaswhatinitiallysparkedherinterest in music, Nace doesn’t plan to pursue it as her career.

Instead, she will major in Musical Production this fall.

“For a long time, I thought I have to do musical theater because that’s all I know, but that’s not really the route I want to go. And since I love music and I love movies so much, why not write the music for movies?”

Nace said. “And as soon as I thought about that, it became all I can think about, and I’m writing music all the time now. I’m really excited because I think it’s something I could be even more passionate about.”

No matter what Nace does, she wants to continue to make music and impact people with her art.

“It’s so important to me and I really feel honored that I was given the opportunity to do that,” Nace said, “because I can’t think of anything more beautiful to me than moving other people the way that I’ve been moved.”

““The The whole thing was so life changing for me, because it really did make me realize that I totally wanted to do something with music in my life.”

—senior Daeyln Nace

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Feb. 28, 2019

In-Depth

Spilled Ink

Young at Heart

Posing with his vintage phone, Fort Collins Candy Store Emporium owner Tony Vallejos smiles in front of his shelves �illed with candy. Photos by Italia Caro

Candy store owner impacts many with nostalgia, joy Italia Caro

Sports Editor

The bell rings as the door swings open and the sound of “Rhapsody in Blue” �loats through the air. Shoes tap softly on the wooden �loor as customers move deeper into the store. Brightly colored vintage toys and memorabilia perch upon the shelves, candy sitting in glass jars with prices on the outside.

The golden cash register is stationed near the handheld telephone, and The Candy Man is behind the counter, sporting his mustache and bow tie.

Tony Vallejos, 58, opened the Fort Collins Candy Store Emporium, a store inspired by 1940s general stores and candy shops, last year in August. The items found in the store match the aesthetic of the 1940s.

“Everything is all antique stuff, even these jars here, these jars are from the 20s and 30s. I really put all my attention to detail into this store,” Vallejos said, explaining some of the items in his shop.

To put the store together,

Vallejos recalled the skills he acquired during his time as an interior designer. However, the store had been a project he had been working on for a while.

“But 17 years ago, I started to put this store together, because I knew I was going to retire, because this is my retirement, and so instead of staying home and watching TV like all my sisters do, I thought I’m going to go and �ind a little place – a little tiny space and just put a bunch of cool stuff and have a bunch of people come visit me!

And sell candy,” Vallejos said.

Vallejos’ interest in running a candy store was �irst sparked when he was living in Athens, Greece, as a child in 1967.

Vallejos went to see “The Planet of the Apes” with some friends from his neighborhood and found the concept of the apes acting like humans frightening.

“You see the horse �irst and it kinda comes up in the air and he lands and there’s a monkey riding it. I lose my mind. I start crying and screaming like it was the worst horror movie I’ve ever seen in my life. I was so frightened

by it, I freaked out and lost all my shizzle,” Vallejos said, laughing about his reaction.

Vallejos was taken out of the theater to calm down, and the lady behind the counter offered to let him hang out with her while he calmed down. To keep Vallejos occupied, she gave him the job of stocking candy.

Vallejos organized the other candy as he went, and the lady gave him a candy bar for his hard work.

“That was my �irst experience working behind a candy bar counter. That’s why I have Planet of the Apes stuff here, because Planet of The Apes, kind of started this whole candy obsession with me, so it took a monkey on a horse to get me.”

The experience Vallejos had as a child inspires him, his customers and the positive outlook he has. His cheerful disposition invites his customers to stay a while. In addition to Vallejos’ easygoing nature, some customers �ind the atmosphere of the store comforting.

“I have this guy who comes

here every Friday, he’s a college kid and he comes here every Friday around 4 o’clock and he goes ‘I come here because I feel like it feels very homey in here.

It just reminds me of home, it’s real calming.’ Which is a great compliment, he thinks of this place as home,” Vallejos said.

While the store gives of an aura of comfort, it also brings a sense of nostalgia for customers. The candy is one item that sparks fond memories in patrons.

“This is bubblegum cigarettes, these blow actual smoke. They’ve been around forever and ever and they’re probably the number one candy in my store. Whether you’re 6 years old or 60 years old, they �lip out when they see those. They come back and go, ‘Those really work’ and I go ‘Oh, I know!’ They come and get more,” Vallejos said.

Another nostalgic element is the toys and décor. In December, Vallejos covered the store in vintage decorations.

“There was all this old timey stuff, and people wept in my store. They came up and

go ‘My grandma had that in her window, every year that I remember as a little kid.’ Then they start to cry, because they think about their grandma, they feel bad that they haven’t thought about their grandma for a while, but it takes this little snowman to remind them of their grandma,” Vallejos said.

The store, with its candy and décor has made Vallejos not just popular in Old Town, but throughout Fort Collins.

“They [children] know me as the candy man and it’s kind of like being a little celebrity here,” Vallejos said.

The main mission for Vallejos is to bring joy to everyone by offering his store as a place for memories, laughter, stories and candy.

“I’m going to create a bubble and I’ll have this space in this crazy world of ours, where you can come in and get lost in another dimension,” Vallejos said. “And that’s what I did, I built another dimension, and so, I thought, everything I do is 1930s and 1940s.

I built this place, I threw myself literally into this mix.”

Spilled Ink

Sports

Feb. 28, 2019

WHERE WE STAND: STATE ROUND UP

15

Girls Varsity Swimming & Dive Regular season ranking: 3 Regular season record (wins-losses): 0-3

Girls Varsity Basketball Regular season ranking: 9 Regular season record (wins-losses): 4-8

Varsity Wrestling Regular season ranking: 6 Regular season record (wins-losses): N/A

Varsity Ice Hockey Regular season ranking: 2 Regular season record (wins-ties-losses): 6-2-2 Graphic by Jack Brecheisen and Jack Hunter

Bike club organizes projects, plans to open bike shop Emily Fox-Million Guest Writer Bike repair can cost anywhere from $5-$60, varying by type of damage. Sometimes the cost and time to get a bike �ixed can be too demanding.

At FCHS, students can bring their bikes to be repaired, with no fee, by the Bike Club.

Bike Club is a dedicated space for people interested in all things bike-related. This includes anything from �ixing bikes, to information on safe cycling and local bike trails.

Meetings take place weekly: every Thursday in ML. Bike Club is open to all students, and students can join at any point throughout the school year.

“It’s just kind of a catch all for people who love bikes,” Bike Club sponsor Mitch Schneider said.

When the Bike Club is not working on tasks like a new logo for a t-shirt, or �ixing a bike, Schneider is focused on a larger project: the possibility of a bike shop, anticipated to open at the beginning of next year.

The goal of the bike shop is to have a convenient

place for students and staff to get their bikes repaired.

“The more space we have, the more we can grow, the more we can meet the needs of more people in the school,” Schneider explained.

Bike Club also hosts a yearly winter and spring bike week.

Though winter bike week has passed, spring bike week is scheduled for May 6-10, which includes National Bike to School Day on that Wednesday.

During the week, there will be bike contests and games.

“Throughout the week at common lunch, we set up for a period out by the McNeal auditorium, and we �ix �lats and �ix any bike issues,” Schneider said.

The goal of bike week is to get people moving, active, and thinking about bikes, as well as returning to the mindset of riding during the spring months.

“It seems to be the day that kicks off transitioning into a time when they can bike to school,” Schneider explained.

“The traf�ic to get into school is atrocious but it’s super smooth on a bike. It gets their

Members of Bike Club repair an old bike during a meeting on Feb. 14. Photo by Amelia Johnson

bikes dusted off and gets them ready to ride over the summer time too and gives people a lot more mobility.”

While the goal is to get students and staff moving, Bike Club addresses other topics within the meetings.

“A secondary function of the club, in addition to the bike work (repair) here at Fort Collins High School, is to create

a bridge with the city and try to connect all the resources in the community,” Schneider said.

Some club members are also in two or three other clubs or just bike because that is their means of getting to school. But Schneider explained that this is the essence of Bike Club.

“I want the school to know that we are a great resource for them, and that cycling in

some places, even in some subcultures within our school, is a really cool selfsustainable environmentally safe and sound practice that I would love to see more people and staff members embrace,” Schneider said “It’s good for the body, good for the mind, good for the traf�ic, good for the environment, good for everybody.”

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Feb. 28, 2019

Sports

Spilled Ink

LIGHT THE LAMP

Junior discovers passion through hockey Roland Tomsic

Managing Editor

The puck slides across the ice coming to an abrupt stop on the edge of junior Caleb Brownell’s hockey stick. The opposing team is down one player and Brownell knows what to do. He controls the puck and begins the powerplay. He snaps the puck to a forward as a gap opens. A slap echoes through the air, the opposing goaltender �linches, and the crowd begins to cheer.

Brownell has been playing hockey for 12 years and plays for the Rocky Mountain Rough Riders AAA team based out of Boulder County. His team is a travel team that plays 90 percent of their games out of state or the country.

“We had a tournament up in Calgary—the max tournament which is the biggest tournament in the world for my age level (U16 midget major AAA hockey)—and our team got the opening ceremony game of

the whole tournament, so there were like 2,000 people there, and I got to do a ceremonial puck drop and it was surreal; all the people that were there and that’s probably my most memorable game from this year,” Brownell said.

because he is the one who got me into it and he motivates me the most and pushes me to always keep going and get better every day,” Brownell said.

“Also, my brother because he was the �irst person in our family to really be

Brownell’s father got him and his three brothers into hockey, lacrosse, and other sports at a very young age. He found his passion and motivation in the sport when he saw his brother competing at a high level and having success.

“People I take inspiration from in my day to day life—probably my dad

good at hockey and play it at a high level, so I always looked up to him as a kid just because he was super good and I thought that was really cool.”

Brownell has worked hard to become a starting player and live up to his brother’s reputation. Though he does most things in everyday life with

“I don’t really know how else to put it: the thrill of being on the ice, playing in games, and being in those moments is why I love it.”

—junior Caleb Brownell

his right hand. He plays hockey with his left. This gives him an advantage against the other team because he can keep the puck away from an opposing player better since his body is in the way.

“As a left-handed player, I play left defense,” Brownell said. “Being left handed and playing left defense helps with your ability to move the puck sideways and it helps with transitions, and all that sort of stuff.”

His ability to move the puck differently than most players makes him an asset on the team. But he doesn’t just play because his team needs him. He truly has a passion for the sport.

“I’ve played a lot of sports, but hockey is the only one that I truly loved, and I’ve played it my whole life. If I don’t play hockey for a couple weeks or months I just go crazy,” Brownell said. “Just being on the ice, skating, playing I just love it. I don’t really know how else to put it: the thrill of being on the ice, playing in games, and being in those moments is why I love it.”

Graphic by Roland Tomsic

Focused on the game, junior Caleb Brownell plays hockey against the Saskatoon Blades and the Calgary Royals. Photos courtesy of Denise Brink.

Spilled Ink

Sports

Girls’ varsity basketball team learns from season, sport Alex Ellmer

Staff Writer

On Feb. 19 the FCHS girls’ varsity basketball team faced Chat�ield High School in the �irst round of playoffs.

This was unfortunately their last game of the season, but the team fought hard to �inish up the 18-19 season.

This season the girls’ basketball team went 8 and 16. Along the way they learned to have fun, train hard, and acquired future skills.

“Our basketball team has some of the best academics and teaches many life skills that will become handy later down the road,” varsity coach Matthew Hower said.

The girls’ varsity basketball team faces many schools around Colorado.

The team plays and focuses hard during practice to clean up their skills and improve fundamentals, so they can use them effectively during the games.

“The girls work hard, and we probably practice a little harder than most programs and practice a lot more than a lot of other teams as well as embracing the skills which has been good to see,” Hower said.

The goal within the girls’ varsity basketball team is to teach strategies to use and put out on the court but it also teaches important life lessons.

“This being my last year you kind of have to think more about how I can use all the tools I have gained from basketball and apply them into the outside world,” senior Hailey Clark said.

Howe and the players focus on values to mix into their game to make an impact in the future.

“Basketball teaches a lot of incredibly valuable skills, like you don’t accidently become good at something and basketball is the same way,” Hower said. “The kids who are great also have great work ethic and they care about their team mates and I think that is one of the lucky things within my three years as a coach.”

Many of the skills learned from the basketball coaches also transfer into everyday life within school and other sports. Everybody comes from somewhere and everybody learns and is taught how to do certain activities and basketball is the same, but it takes time and effort to control their ability.

“Kids always come up and ask what they can do to get more playing time, but it’s different for every single kid,” Hower said.

“Some kids it’s thinking the game and seeing things properly, so their skills can take over for other’s it’s a skill thing, they see the game but don’t quite have the skills yet.”

The students competing on the basketball team live up to high grades in their classes and need to keep a strong positive mentality week after week. While keeping up in basketball students also keep up with grades and schoolwork.

“We don’t only have kids who work hard, but we also have stellar academics with every one of our kids who has graduated through our program have been recognized though CHSAA,” Hower said. “In the class they get work done while caring for each other and those are skills that 20 years down the road they are still going to remember and rely on if they work hard.”

Through the FCHS basketball program, there have been many students continue with basketball after high school. These students have been accepted to schools of high academics including Lewis and Clark College in Portland, Oregon, and

Feb. 28, 2019

17

the University of Chicago in Illinois.

“Hopefully the girls have fun within the team and sport because that’s the most important part is to keep it light, keep it fun,” Hower said. “But also have the expectation that we will work hard and do things a certain way to help these students succeed after high school.”

Fast Facts The ball used in the WNBA is smaller by 1 inch compared to a basketball used in the NBA. WNBA games are played in four 10 minute quarters.

The women’s basketball team at Notre Dame won the National Championship in the 2017-2018 season Information gathered by Italia Caro; source: wiki.kidzsearch.com and ncaa.com

Top: Freshman Tatum Aragon jumps up to catch the basketball. Top middle: Senior Hailey Clark runs out during her introduction announced at the beginning of the game. Bottom middle: Senior Isabel Layne waits to receive a pass from freshman Shane Young. Bottom: Senior Hannah Clark prepares to pass the basketball. Photos by Italia Caro

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Sports

Spilled Ink

Why we are attracted to jocks Editor’s Note

The story is common: the jock is the big man on campus, along comes a beautiful (possibly nerdy) girl who turns his life upside down. In the end we know that they get together, and flowers are everywhere, the happily ever after vibe going strong. However, this stereotypical story has truth. As it turns out, there is psychological and evolutionary reasoning behind the science of attraction when it comes to “jocks” or athletes. This page will guide you through the science, the traits people look for in romantic partners and examples of this phenomenon in pop culture.

Traits people look for in romantic partners Exposure and Familiarity: the more contact there is with a potential partner, the easier it is to have a romantic attraction to them.

Physically attractive: there is a tendency to be drawn to physical appearance and prowess (beauty, strength, etc.).

Why do we like athletes?

Evolution. During our time as a developing species, the literal survival of our offspring depended on the genes passed on and the abilities of a chosen partner. That means when we found an individual who was strong, quick, smart and the rest of our desired traits, we were attracted to them (whether male or female) because they had all the traits we saw fit for survival.

Now, it’s not a pressing matter to find someone who can survive a bunch of predators. However, the mentality of wanting a partner who can take care of you and potentially offspring still rules people in their attraction to jocks.

Personality and Character: The personality (traits like intelligence, social skills, kindness, and warmth) affects the potential of someone as a romantic partner.

Proximity: The closer we are to a potential partner, the higher the chance we will find them attractive.

Similarity: People are drawn to people who are like them.

Information gathered by Italia Caro; source: www.psychologytoday.com

Jock Love Interests in Movies

She’s All That (1999) Director: Robert Iscove Summary: A high school jock (Freddie Prinze Jr.) takes on a bet to transform the nerd outcast (Rachael Leigh Cook) into the next prom queen.

High School Musical (2006) Director: Kenny Ortega Summary: Troy Bolton (Zac Efron) meets nerdy beauty Gabriella Montez (Vanessa Anne Hudgens) at a holiday party. When they return to school, they navigate difficulty while staying true to themselves.

Graphics by Jack Hunter

The Kissing Booth (2018) Director: Vince Marcello Summary: A high schooler finds herself face to face with her long-term, footballplayer crush when she signs up to run a kissing booth at the spring carnival.

Spilled Ink

Perspectives

Feb. 28, 2019

19

BUTTING HEADS The day allows people to express their affection without criticism Celebrates everyone (not just couples) Can create a sense of validation and support

You should celebrate love every day Valentine’s Day is a capitalist holiday created by corporations

Money is better spent on experiences than gifts

Valentine’s Day promotes love, Valentine’s Day focuses on appreciation between people consumerism, material items

Italia Caro Sports Editor

Valentine’s Day originated in Rome around the third century A.D. Saint Valentine went against the order of Roman emperor Claudius Gothicus and married people in secret. In that case, it was a lover-only kind of affair. However, Saint Valentine did more than just marry lovers in secret; he gave validation to their love.

From these beginnings, a day celebrating love, comes a perfect opportunity for those who have trouble declaring their adoration to others on a day-to-day basis. This day allows people to convey their feelings without its seeming out of the ordinary and extravagant. I am one of those people who has issues communicating my feelings to the ones I love. Valentine’s Day allows me to be vulnerable about my feelings and show my appreciation and love for my family and friends.

While a major part of the holiday is expressing appreciation or love in magni�icent grand gestures, typically involving chocolate, �lowers and balloons, it is not the main focus of the holiday.

Junior Sophie Kwan sees a

different side of Valentine’s Day. “Everyone says it’s all about consumerism and like buying all these chocolates and �lowers and it’s kind of a marketing sham and in many aspects, I do agree with that. But I think it’s about appreciation mostly. I think if you look past all the gestures that you’re kind of socially supposed to participate in I think it’s actually a very nice holiday,” Kwan said.

While Valentine’s Day is a major holiday for couples it’s not always the most inclusive holiday for single pringles (including me). However, the holiday doesn’t have strict rules about celebrating with single friends or family.

“I am kind of excited every year to at least kind of take the time to let my friends know I appreciate them, not just like the people in my romantic life,” Kwan said.

Even those without signi�icant others can be included in the festivities.

Candy and cards can still be received by all.

Speaking of cards, back in elementary school, everyone who gave a valentine had to give them to everyone in class. Looking back on it, the task of giving out valentines to everyone may have seemed trivial or routine. But chances are the action of giving everyone a card gave them a sense of validation. Receiving a card from everyone, hearing they appreciate you, can empower and can take away negative thoughts.

This is what Valentine’s Day should celebrate and support: lifting people up, providing a sense of validation to all.

Roland Tomsic Managing Editor As a person in a committed relationship, I think love is great. However, I have issues with Valentine’s Day and the consumerism behind the holiday.

People choose who they want to love and should show it no matter what day it is. Also it’s a holiday engineered by corporations to sell products. This idea of a material thing as a gift for this silly holiday was brought upon us by capitalist, money-hungry entities to give buyers an excuse to buy their products. It clearly has worked, and I don’t think in the future people will stop giving in to this marketing tactic.

However, consumers can purchase non-material things as an alternative.

Showing your love for someone daily is a bigger commitment than a box of chocolates once a year. Making it an everyday thing may take away from the magic of a romantic dinner and a gift from a partner as a Valentine’s Day celebration. However, it shows a deeper caring about someone if

you take time out of your day to hear someone’s issues or about their life outside of the relationship. I value that more than a material thing.

Showing love through actions and conversation is much healthier in a relationship. A study conducted by Make Their Day in 2013 showed “83% of respondents said recognition for contributions was more ful�illing than any rewards or gifts.” Verbal validation and listening skills prove to be better ways to make someone feel good.

If people are going to spend money on their signi�icant other, it should be spent on an experience. Consumers can purchase experiences to share rather than material items making a great alternative to the consumerist side of Valentine’s Day. Spending money on a concert, dinner, or a trip to a museum can create memories and evoke emotions that last longer than a product.

Loving people daily instead of a once a year Valentine’s celebration is a better use of effort in a relationship than buying gifts. If affection is only shown once in a while it may be seen as less sincere. The sincerity of a daily loving conversation or acknowledgement is a clear way to show love and gives your partner ful�illment. The consumerist side of people says “buy gifts” for Valentine’s but a better use of money would be an experience. Emotions, memories, and verbal validation are valued longer than a material item.

20

Feb. 28, 2019

Perspectives

Spilled Ink

National Emergency Broken Down What Happened: On Feb. 15, President Trump declared the situation with the southern U.S. border to be a National Emergency. By doing so, he gave himself the power to take funding from other initiatives and put it toward his plan to construct a barrier along the border.

Why the Declaration is Being Criticized: Executive Overreach Unnecessary If President Trump uses funding acquired by this declaration, he will effectively undercut the power of the purse Congress holds. Currently, a resolution has been proposed

by Texas Representative Joaquin Castro to stop the declaration.

During his speech announcing the declaration, Trump said he “didn’t need to do this.” This diminishes his claim that it is an actual National Emergency. Also, the number of arrests for crossing the southern U.S. border has steadily declined for almost two decades.

Military Action This is the second National Emergency ever to take military action. The first was

by President George W. Bush in response to 9/11. Since the National Emergencies Act was passed in 1976, 59 have been declared in total; the majority have been sanctions.

States Suing Over National Emergency Declaration Key =Suing

New York About $223 million of funding could be redirected from New York, the majority of which is militarybased.

California

Colorado

Over $896 million of funding for federal military construction and National Guard anti-drug trafficking is vulnerable to being used for the border wall.

Colorado has raised concerns because it has a large number of military bases, like the Air Force Academy, that could be affected by the diversion of funding.

Information gathered by Molly Lubbers; source: nytimes.com, governing.com, vanityfair.com, nbcnews.com. Graphics by Jack Hunter

Spilled Ink

Perspectives

Feb. 28, 2019

21

?*&!#@%*&*#@!?* History, power structures impact slur use

Last year, Kendrick Lamar stopped a white fan from rapping the N-Word when he pulled her up on stage to sing one of his songs. Some reacted with confusion as to why he could say the word when he told her not to do so; this is just one instance of many that spurred a debate over slur use.

To understand slurs, one must �irst know that all slurs were originally created to harm a certain group of people; what makes them stronger than simply insults are the institutions of power that back them up.

For example, a word like “a**hole,” even said in a mean way to someone, is not a slur, but a curse word; there has not been systemic oppression associated

De finit

ion o fa

S l ur

Slurs are insults that were created to damage an oppressed or marginalized group

History of Slurs 1587: The use of the N-word is first recorded 1914: The longer version of the F-slur was first recorded in American slang; the shortened form appeared in 1921 Mid 1800s-1900s: The use of the D-slur was first recorded 1941: The US started using the J-slur during World War II 1980s: The R-Word began to function as a slur

group. Therefore, a white person using the N-word to mean “friend” is still being racist; they are asserting their power in a small way that continues the inequality between white people and black people.

“I feel like there’s de�initely a difference between when someone is using it to offend you, and then using it with their friends and they’re using the word to be empowered,” Foxx said. “But I think when people use it who aren’t supposed to use it, it’s not OK.” Additionally, a slur can carry the threat of violence within the unequal power dynamic. Though it is “just” a word, many bigots will escalate from saying it to committing physical harm. Targeted groups can feel intimidated or unsafe when they hear a slur. It is both dehumanizing and silencing; many feel they shouldn’t respond out of self-preservation, or their response feels diminished by the lack of respect given by the other person.

That is typically what motivates reclaiming movements. Members of marginalized communities do not have homogenous opinions—

How to Respon

not every person in every group feels they want to reclaim a slur.

But for some, reclamation offers a chance to take back the power a word has over them.

If a slur is intended to hurt you, you can decide how you wish to treat it. But that is an intracommunity discussion; if you are not a part of a marginalized population, you don’t have the option of “subverting” a slur that doesn’t targets that group. Instead, recognize the power structures and history that shape the impact of a slur, and work to see it in a nuanced way. Rather than having a knee-jerk reaction of why some can say a word when others can’t, try to understand why reclaiming a slur is different than someone outside of a marginalized group using it. And when it applies, go further than not saying it; use your privilege by becoming an ally and speaking up w h e n

u l S A

r

Molly Lubbers Editor-in-Chief

with it, so the word does not carry the same weight. In contrast, slurs hold deeper connotations and history behind them indicative of inequality. “[The N-Word is] so embedded; it’s so deep rooted,” senior Ryan Foxx said. “It’s not just a word, there’s everything else that goes along with it.”

Power structures that compound a slur’s meaning also delineate who can say the slur and who cannot.

People who are not the target of a slur shouldn’t say it, as it doesn’t impact them negatively. For example, straight people shouldn’t say the f-slur, since it was created to hurt gay men, and they hold societal power over those subject to the word.

When a person who is not part of an oppressed group speaks a slur targeting a group, they are demonstrating power. In a way, saying a slur in that context says, “I am not hurt by this word, but I’m using it anyway despite or because of the offense and hurt it could cause to others.”

Even if it is not spoken with the intention of harm, it still is damaging, because it is representative of the power held over the oppressed

o t d

Don’t be afraid to speak up. The words said could hurt more people than one might think.

Don’t be quick to make assumptions about the situation. It’s possible they didn’t know what they said was offensive.

Provide an explanation as to why the comment may have been offensive to you or others who heard, even if it didn’t seem harmful to the speaker.

Ask why the speaker might have said it to help them clear up unintended bias or possible misunderstandings.

An authority figure can be consulted if you feel uncomfortable about a direct confrontation, or if the comments continue.

Information gathered by Italia Caro; sources: encyclopedia.com, pbs.org

22

Feb. 28, 2019

Perspectives

Spilled Ink

Tip #1

Tip #2

Tip #3

Surround yourself with people who resist peer pressure.

Understand how to say “No” the right way.

Reach out to others if needed.

Tip #4

Tip #5

Don’t take part in something that doesn’t feel right to you.

Know when you should leave the situation.

Stop Peer Pressure

Tip #6

Tip #7

Tip #8

Think about the possible consequences of what you’re being pressured to do.

Realize it is OK to stand alone rather than follow the crowd.

Strive to make a positive influence on those around you.

Information gathered by Rebekah De Priest; source: accreditedschoolsonline.org. Graphic by Jack Hunter

Students should stop sexualization of teachers A low murmur drifts along desks, flowing into the ears of students and out of their mouths in the form of barely stifled snickers. The teacher sighs, about to turn from the board and focus the children when a remark halts their movement.

“Dang, they’re thick,” whispers a student in the front, and the teacher can feel their face heat, a knot of brambles sprouting from their throat and creeping into their stomach, holding their beating heart in its grasp. The students laugh, thinking nothing of it; the comment haunts the teacher all week.

Similar harassment can be heard in our hallways and classrooms, and the prevalence of it is alarming.

But whether it is discussing a staff members’ sexual organs, commenting on their bodies, or nicknaming them “daddy,” such words never are just a joke or teenage banter. In fact, they normalize the objectification of others and create an uncomfortable atmosphere in what should be a professional space.

Teachers deserve the same level of respect and humanity that everyone else should be granted; just by nature of their job, they shouldn’t be subjected to

STAFF ED sexual harassment that goes unpunished. Although they have the power in the dynamic between teacher and pupil or adult and child, they also can still be victims of sexual harassment from students.

What’s more, is the sexualization of teachers by students can further the culture of pedophilia being accepted. It sets up those relationships to be allowed and romanticizes something that is actually incredibly dangerous. While teenagers are coming into their sexualities, they are not all mature enough to understand the difference between healthy and unhealthy behavior or comprehend the power inequality set up by the relationship.

By joking about how attractive a teacher is, a vulnerable student may think it is OK to approach them in an inappropriate way; this can become even more scary if that teacher is actually a predator.

And since teachers’ jobs are often based on reputation, the overt sexualization of one could even inadvertently lead their being fired. When educators are put in such uncomfortable situations of stopping the advances of a student, sometimes it can encourage rumors that they condoned or mirrored the behavior. That puts their job in jeopardy and can make the possibility of getting another one slim.

With all the damage that sexual harassment of teachers creates, it is important to recognize the impact your words can have. Don’t contribute to the culture of sexualizing educators, and make sure others do the same. Instead of drooling over teachers, state that they are appreciated in a respectful and professional manner; even when they are not around to hear it, don’t make comments. Take it a step further when you hear an inappropriate remark being made and explain why it is detrimental. As awkward as it may be, it’s worse to condone sexual harassment by allowing it to go unreprimanded. Let’s make sure our school is a safe place not only for students, but for staff as well.

Perspectives Teachers By the Numbers Spilled Ink

In 2016, The National Education Association ranked Colorado 30th in teacher pay, averaging an annual salary of

According to the Colorado Education Association, Colorado schools are underfunded

$822 million annually by the state.

Over the last 15 years, teacher pay in Colorado has been cut by

17.4%.

At the start of her career, a typical 25-year-old female teacher in Colorado earns

69%

just of what her peers with similar education levels and hours do.

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23

Editor’s Note Rebekah De Priest

$51,204.

Letters to the Editor

Feb. 28, 2019

Perspectives Editor

As the four-day strike of Denver teachers ended on Feb. 14, news stations were quick to report on the situation and the motivation those educators had. The protest was the �irst in 25 years, but that doesn’t mean teacher pay in Colorado had gone unnoticed in that time.

The work Colorado teachers put in is worth far more than the CBS-estimated average annual salary of $52,000. Our staff members work endlessly to ensure we can step out into the world with all the knowledge we need to take on the challenges of life, but their pay doesn’t re�lect their work. It may seem as though students don’t have much control over the situation, but there are simple things that we can do to help. By taking the time to thank our teachers and staff for what they do, it shows them we appreciate the effort they put in and the contributions they make to our education.

Another way you can help teachers is by donating extra classroom supplies to those who need them. The school budget covers the most common items, but some specialized ones are nice to give them. For example, consider donating a book to a Language Arts teacher’s classroom library.

Other times, teachers will pay for materials for students in need, which can add up. Consider Clyde asking a teacher Cares if there are any supplies they could use in their classroom, since needs depend on each classroom.

Information gathered by Rebekah De Priest; sources: earthday.org, globalcitizen.org

3400 Lambkin Way, Ft. Collins, CO 80525

Editors

Molly Lubbers...Editor in Chief Sadie Buggle...News Editor Kelly Warden...A&E Editor Miles Rodriguez...In-Depth Editor Italia Caro...Sports Editor Rebekah De Priest...Perspectives Editor Roland Tomsic...Managing Editor

Photographers

2018-2019

(970) 488-8199

Staff Writers

Hannah Blagg Seraphina Discoe Alex Ellmer Anna Hunter Jenny Nguyen Mackenna Rowe

Amelia Johnson

Graphic Artists

Jack Hunter...Head Graphic Artist Jack Brecheisen

Adviser

Anne Colwell

Editorial Policy

Spilled Ink is published nine times yearly by the newspaper staff of Fort Collins High School, 3400 Lambkin Way, Fort Collins, Colo. 80525, (970) 488-8199. Member of the Colorado High School Press Association, American Scholastic Press Association and the National Scholastic Press Association. Recipient of the Quill and Scroll, George H. Gallup Award in 1996 and 1997, and awarded First Place with Special Merit in 2001 by the National Scholastic Press Association. Columns are the opinions of writers only. Unsigned editorials re�lect the majority opinion of the Spilled Ink staff. Nothing in Spilled Ink should be considered the opinion of Fort Collins High School or Poudre School District (PSD). Schoolsponsored publications written by students are encouraged to freely and creatively express their views subject to the limitations of PSD Board Policies and state law (PR--la0431, Colorado Revised Statutes 22-1-120) Spilled Ink reserves the right to edit letters to the editor and to deny publication to any letter. Letters may be published on Spilled Ink’s website. Letters must be signed, and are limited to 300 words.

24

Feb. 28, 2019

The Backside

Spilled Ink

What is something you believe from the bottom of your heart?

Trey Tipton Senior

“Lebron is the GOAT, he’s just the best player to ever live.”

Cody Larson Junior

“I think the LEGO movie is the best movie ever created, and I believe that from the bottom of my heart.”

Bella Gleener Sophomore

Gillian Lasher Senior

“I believe there’s a purpose for everything in life and you can always learn from them, and mistakes can just turn into lessons. I think if you have a midset like that, you have a more prosperous and happy life.”

Hailey Hixson Junior

“I believe everything happens for a reason and even if you don’t know what the reason is now, you’ll �igure it out, no matter what you’re going through.”

“From the bottom of my heart, I believe everyone is good inside and it’s important for me because then I don’t believe the world is all evil and there’s always a bit of sunshine.”

Aidan Ackerson Freshman

“That Tik-Tok is dumb.”

Thomas Orozco Sophomore

“I think we help each other by default and it’s only certain experiences and things we do throughout life that cause people to not do good things.”

Cassia Oakes Freshman

“I believe in integrity because doing what’s important to you and being faithful to yourself is really important.”

Spilled Ink is a seven-year All-Colorado, Hall-of-Fame Newspaper 2010-2011

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