2008 Montana Pacesetter and NSPA Best of Show

Page 2 News

Page 10 Sports

News 2, 3Opinion 4,5Feature 6, 7

Entertainment 8,9Sports 10,11In-Camera 12

||||||||||||| ||||||||||||||||

sidein||||||||||||| ||||||||||||||||

[ ]i niwa.comFor more stories, be sure to

check out iniwa.com

Page 6 Feature

[]i niwa great falls high school

issue 8 volume 84where tradition and innovation meet 1900 2nd Ave. S.

Great Falls, MT 59405May 21, 2009

Start Your Engines[COPY MEGAN MCDUNN||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||| sports editor]

Passion is a burning love or desire for something within a person.

It can come in many di� erent sizes, shapes and forms. There are many di� erent things that spark passions inside a person. For most students enrolled in automotive classes here at Great Falls High and even some who are not, cars are one of their life’s passions. This includes senior Tony Stinger.

For as long as he can remember Stinger has had a passion for cars. Not only does he love to race them, but he also loves to work on them. Some may say a love of cars can’t get a person anywhere in life, but as Stinger has recently discovered these people have little idea what they are talking about.

At the state AAA/Ford Auto Skills competition held May 6 and 7, 2009, Stinger and his teammate, CMR senior Kelsey Petrini, took home top honors. Along with a trophy and bragging rights came the chance for the two to represent the state of Montana in the national competition to be held June 14-16 in Dearborn, Michigan and to win many full-ride scholarship opportunities from schools such as Helena College of Technology, University of Ohio and UTI (Universal Technical Institute) of Sacramento. Stinger stated, “I’m still not sure whether I would rather go into auto mechanics or become an auto body technician, so I haven’t chosen a school yet.”

The competition consisted of discovering problems, or “bugs”, installed into a 2009 Ford Focus by professionals or teachers of the industry. The teams were given a 90-minute time period to � nd the bugs put into the car. and The team discovering the most/all bugs in the shortest amount of time being declared the winners. Finding all ten bugs in the car, with a time of one hour and ten minutes was the best making Stinger and Petrini the competitions winners. They were the only team to � nd all of the 1bugs in their car. Second place went home with a Bozeman school and third place also came home to a team consisting of two more of Great Falls’ students, Chase Simonson and Phil Margrat, who found eight and � ve of the bugs respectively.

Stinger and Petrini are both taking the automotive ASE class held at Paris Gibson Alternative Center and taught by Joe Wilkins, and Simonson and Margrat are taking auto technology here at Great Falls High, taught by Mr. Brad Warren. Each of the teams spent times practicing with their teachers to prepare for the competition. A few weeks prior to the competition the teams were given the rules and guidelines to the car competition, and at the same time they released the information regarding the car to be used for the competition.

From the time the teams received the information they practiced by going over what would cause a no start on the car, what would cause the car to turn over but create a bad start and other basic principles likely to be put in the

car because they are common things to go wrong, with their teachers before or after school for a couple hours. The teams were even able to run some tests on a 2009 Ford Focus Bison Ford lent the school for the students to use. This proved to be a useful tool that helped lead to the student’s success.

In preparation for the national competition, Stinger said, “We are going to go over the same basic principles once we learn what car we will be working on.” The information regarding what car is going to be used for the national competition has not yet been released. Stinger went on saying, “We are going to try and come up with a better game plan, which will hopefully help lead us to a more e� cient, quicker time.”

Another resource the students have at their disposal is their teacher Joe Wilkins. Wilkins recently has been raking in some awards of his own. Earlier in the year Wilkins received the state of Montana Teacher of the Year by the Montana Association for Career and Technical Education, a prestigious award itself, but in addition he also received the Region 5 Teacher of the Year award. When talking about his award with him, he has said, “Oh it is no big deal.” His laid back attitude and ability to relate to his students, allows them to feel he’s helping them not just teaching them.

Wilkins is looking forward to seeing his students compete at the national competition, and he feels con� dent in both of their abilities to represent MT well.

Students take top honors at state auto competition

OVERLOOKING Senior Tony Stinger and instructor Joe Wilkins look at Stinger and his lab partner’s requirements to � nish rebuilding their transmission. UNDER THE HOOD CMR senior Kelsey Petrini uses her automotive skills while working on another student’s car in her class at the Paris Gibson Education Center. CHECKING IT OUT Stinger inspects the undercarriage of a car that is hoisted on one of the many lifts at the shop. BRINGING IT HOME Seniors Phil Magart and Chase Simonson stand with instructor Brad Warren and their third place trophy. [Photos By CHRIS JOHNER]

The H1N1 virus, causes a global panic over the possibility of rising pandemic conditions.

Senior Amber Peterson challenges traditional stereotypes associated with “handicaps.”

Track and � eld athletes strive for State qualifying � nishes at Divisional Meet.

2 news | editor sam martin

sponsored by Graybill Law Firm

H1N1World o� cials prepare for in� uenza pandemic[COPY TORY OSMENT||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||web editor]

H1N1 has spread throughout the media like wild� re. In� uenza A (H1N1), also referred to by the media as Swine Flu, is a montage of swine, avian and human � u. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), “All of humanity is under threat. All countries should now active their Pandemic Preparedness Plans.” Currently, WHO has raised alert to near pandemic, a � ve, a six is the highest, a pandemic.

H1N1 has gotten the world in a panic-stricken worry for fear of something that may not be anything more than the average � u. The 1918 outbreak of what was mistakenly called “Swine � u” has caused a major part of the concern that has spread throughout the world since the � u � rst appeared. The 1918 “Swine Flu” started to appear in the spring; in the beginning the � u was very mild with few deaths, like it is now. The � u had seceded during the summer and returned with a vengeance when � u season came back around wiping out 10 million people worldwide in just a matter of 18 months. With all the technological advances of recent decades the medical technology of the early 1900’s is considered stone age compared to how highly developed it is today. “We have gotten a lot more advanced since then and our medical technology is a lot better than Mexico’s,” said Malmstrom Air Force Base Clinic’s Medical Emergency Response Manager (MERM) in response to the worry over Mexico’s complications with the � u. When the Swine Flu � rst broke out in 1918 it took medical scientists two years to come up with a vaccine, it will take six months for a vaccine to be created for this strain of the � u.

The hype of the � u has created a scare throughout America for almost no reason, “Each year about 36,000 people in the United States die of the common � u” said MERM, “and we are worried about a hundred or so deaths?”

While H1N1 may not seem very dangerous at this point, the risk of major problems still exists. The world does not know at this point how deadly the � u is, it has formed from strains of human � u, avian � u and swine � u.

The age old saying “Better safe than sorry” seems to be taken into consideration when preparing for infection. States all across the nation have reported cases of H1N1 � u and as of May 12, Montana has also been infected. Some states are taking drastic measures into keeping the � u as isolated as possible, Texas suspended high school sports for a period of time and many schools shut down for extensive cleaning. Some countries have even taken precautions with air tra� c to and from Mexico, whether banning � ights altogether or putting doctors on the � ights.

Malmstrom Air Force Base (MAFB) has informed employees of H1N1 signs, symptoms, risks and prevention. MAFB residents and families are urged to stay informed with the facts, not hype. Each day employees of the clinic are briefed with new H1N1 information based on WHO and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) updates. Right now the Clinic is in a heightened awareness, “all we can do is sit and wait for it to come. There is no way to tell when it is going to reach us, but it will, we just have to wait for it to get here,” stated MERM. “There are probably more cases here in Montana, but people may not be going to the doctors with their symptoms to con� rm it.”

The � u is not causing severe illnesses at this point and there have not been many hospitalizations or many deaths, but the threat of another deadly � u still exists. “There is some concern that the � u can turn into something more dangerous after the summer, but we have come a long way since 1918. We have more ways of recognizing the � u and preventing it than we did back then,” said Kate Marone of the Cascade City-County Health Department (CCHD). “When and if the � u does come back around in the fall it will be time for � u shots so that will be taken into consideration when immunizations are given.”

The world is preparing itself for a � u that once caused a lot of damage but may not be as threatening now. The � u has infected numerous countries and a majority of the United States, but deaths in the US have been few, just three. The symptoms of the � u are just like any common � u and it hasn’t done much damage

in the way of deaths. Right now the world is more prepared for pandemic than it ever has been.

The � u has a seven to ten day incubation period, and persons infected may spread the � u one day before symptoms develop and up to seven days following the development of symptoms. If people become infected they are recommended to stay home and treat the � u as if it is any other � u, with over the counter medications. “If people show symptoms we recommend that they stay away from others, we call it self isolating. We also recommend social distancing because of the way the � u is spread,” said Marone. The germs are spread through sneezing and coughing, “if someone sneezes and you are six feet away it is less likely that you will become infected.”

While the � u itself may not seem as dangerous as the hype, it can cause other major diseases like pneumonia and potentially be fatal. It may also worsen existing medical conditions like Diabetes and Asthma.

The Swine Flu hasn’t gotten all people in a worry, one student referred to the Swine Flu hype

as a “diversion from the economy” and “a way to make Obama look like a hero.”

Another stated that “the Swine Flu scare enables the media to divert the attention of the people from scandals such as the CIA memos on torture, or the Air Force One � y over of New York City. Swine Flu is a PR campaign to enhance the image of the Obama Administration.”

“I’m not really worried about it, there has only been one reported case in Montana and not many deaths compared to the regular � u,” said junior Tony Rosales. “I think it is just the government controlling the media to control the people.”

Whether the � u is a conspiracy or not, the county has plans and systems in place for quick communication to schools, businesses and childcare facilities if there is any information that may concern them. The CCHD is working alongside other businesses and the � re department with monthly meetings, Cascade County is de� nitely prepared for pandemic, but H1N1 may not be cause for too much concern, it may not be the horrible � u that once killed 10 million.

EERIE IMAGES appear as a Thai hospital o� cial monitors the thermal screening of passsengers at an arrival gate of the Suvarnabhumi airport in Bangkok on May 7, 2009. The World Health Organisation warned that a global pandemic remains a threat despite the relatively low death toll. [PHOTO BY NEWSCOM.COM]

“Aaaaaahh.... I’m going to graduate and move on with my life!” Great, but don’t take a chance on screwing up your life by making a stupid

choice to drink. If you say to yourself, “Nothing will happen,” then go buy a lottery ticket and get rich because you can predict the future.

Some seniors will get arrested, crash and be crippled, maimed or killed because of a bad choice... Will it be you? THINK ABOUT IT!

And remember, real friends don’t let friends use.

Swine Infl uenza

MOVE

3May 21, 2009

Hey TeacHers Leave THem kids aLone English teacher Dawn Dengel and history teacher Jana Mora rehearse their lines for the 2009 Senior Talent Show. In contrast to former spring senior talent shows, this year’s program will be hosted by faculty MCs. [ PHoTo By Cody Tyler]

[coPy HALEY PEMP||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||staff Writer]

“I want this show to be different than years past,” said English teacher Cynthia Duffy. “I don’t want it to be just skits; it should be a talent showcase and that’s what I want it to be.”

Class sponsors Dawn Dengel and Jana Mora, along with Duffy are the head directors in charge of the Senior Talent Show. Dengel and Mora are in charge of coordinating the acts, while Duffy is in charge of production.

Duffy said, “Unfortunately, we’re not doing a senior slide show at all at the talent show; instead, the slide presentation is going to be produced by a parent and distributed on DVD to

seniors at their All Night Graduation Party.” She also said, “It’s kind of cool, though,

because Great Falls High alumni are coming back and helping out with the production as stage crew, and I’m trying to make it a new tradition to have alumni come back and to have some fun.”

Senior Emily Volf said, “I’m going to be just singing. I decided to join because I didn’t want it to get canceled and I thought it would be a good experience.” In regard to Duffy’s stance on content this year, she said, “It’s very important to make the talent show not just skits because these alone tend to make the show less enjoyable.”

The last traditional senior hurrah continues because of teachers’ efforts to preserve it.

Taking the sTageSenior Talent Show carries on tradition

Great Falls teens compete at Youth and Government

[coPy JESSE WHYTE|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||staff Writer]

It’s fun to stay at the Y-M-C-A! Many students across Montana attended the Youth and Government at the capitol building in Helena. This event simulated real governmental processes.

The teens get the opportunity to elect others to different positions such as: governor, lieutenant governor, chief justice, and secretary of state. The capitol hosts the Governor’s Ball, in which various candidates give their speeches for their desired position. After the speeches, they eat dinner and then dance the night away.

During this event, the students are broken down into committees and appointed to various positions: Committee Chairs, Assistant Committee Chairs, Majority/Minority Leaders, Party Whips, and make different secretaries. Bills are passed through the committee and if they make it through, then the bill will go into the House of Representatives and then it would go to the Senate if it is passed. If the Senate alters it, then it must go back to the House for re-approval. If the House alters it, then is must go back to the Senate and so on until they both vote ‘yes’ on the same version of the bill.

After this lengthy process, the governor decides whether to sign it into law or veto it. If he/she vetoes the bill, it can still be passed if two-thirds majority decides it. They are many different positions in the court program.

Juniors Ben Zieske and Sam Martin were attorneys, usually they create teams of two, but both students flew solo in the court. Before the actual session, they were assigned a position for or against a case. There are two cases for the attorney teams. They are allowed to write a brief, which is a summary of their legal arguments in the issue, but they must stick to legality of the topic and cannot use personal arguments and opinions. “It was really cool to be questioned by a real Supreme Court justice,” said Zieske, a two year veteran.

Zieske and Martin chose to be attorneys because it was more of a competition than just debating bills, two people argue the case in front of the Supreme Court and one side wins. Attorneys can also apply to justices and they decide on the cases after the attorneys argue their positions. “It was very interesting to see the governmental process from the perspective of someone taking part and not critiquing it,” said Martin, “the court program was enlightening to see how legal precedent is formed and perpetuated.”

There are other positions in the court system. A Chief Justice is common elected position; he gets to write the ‘opinion of the court’ which is the summary of the court’s decision. He also takes part in legislature business like giving a speech called ‘The State of the Judiciary,’ which describes the cases before the court.

Another officer is a lobbyist, who speech in bill which is simply their opinion and another is a press corps, who reports the events and puts out a paper every day. At the end, the students participated in a mock moot court which was a fun and relaxed round. Also the attorneys sat as justices and vice versa; they have a good and do not get to serious about the round. Even though they had fun, “over all it was a very educational experience,” said Martin.

Ben Zieske had some fun himself leading a civil rights movement against alphabetism, “which is a discrimination against people whose names comes at the end alphabet,” said Zieske. He also led about 30 people to storm the Senate and give speeches about alphabetism.

Many of the students go to have fun and others go because they want to get experience and learn because they are going to major in law.

Over the last few years, the number of students attending YMCA Youth and Government has been seriously declining. “We need more people to join next year,” said Zieske.

Cla

sse

s o

n t

he [coPy SEAN MCGUIRE|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||

||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||| |||||||||||||||||||||||||copy editor]“We haven’t lost anything due to funding,” assures Associate

Principal Beth Gerhart. The lack of a mill levy, then, has done nothing catastrophic as many feared it would. Nevertheless, an intriguing assortment of changes are coming for Great Falls High School for the 2009–2010 school year.

More Dual Credit classes are going to be available. Students can get credit both for GFH and for colleges like Montana Tech and Montana State University-North. It has already been offered for some time in classes for industrial technology and chemistry.

Honors Biology 5–6 will be a new course next year that will have this option. It will cover mostly anatomy and physiology and will fit into a medical curriculum for college. Rob Truax, the AP Biology instructor, will only teach three periods of it next year. He likes the idea. “The Biology 5–6 program had been a void that was in our science department,” he commented.

The University of Great Falls will be joining the Dual-Credit program. “They’ve come up with a much less expensive deal so

we will have them,” said Principal Dr. Fred Anderson. Further off in the future lies the Career Academy. “The

Career Academy groups students in a particular field of interest,” explained Anderson. With students under the same umbrella of interest, like science or communications, he hopes, learning will become a more active and productive process. “The bottom line really is to increase student enthusiasm and reduce the dropout rate and at the same time have students with more skills,” said Anderson.

GFH’s video production classes may not be available for career technical credit next school year. Before, the classes could be taken either for that or for fine arts. Kelly Wiles, who teaches them, has what Anderson called “vocational endorsement” from the Department of Public Instruction for teaching a class for a for a career technical credit, but not for a fine arts credit. That situation remains unresolved.

The journalism curriculum is another under the microscope. If things turn out the way Anderson has said they have been discussed, the program will be revised to put emphasis on online journalism, a movement that is gaining on print.

Classes survive lack of levy, look to possibilities

digging in Sophomore Tim Yuhas inspects a dissected a fetal pig in Chris Crocker’s Biology 1-2 class. A Biology 5-6 class will be offered for the first time next year, it will be a dual credit course focusing on anatomy and physiology. [PHoTo By TORY OSMENT]

YMCA

editorial

There comes a point where it is impossible for a middle ground to exist and literature is swiftly reaching that point.

The e-book has been here for some time, but with the arrival of the Amazon Kindle 2, a gadget gaining popularity that can view and purchase books with ease, it is impossible to ignore it any longer. Print is fading. Digital literature is beginning to pick up the pace. It is vital that we remember the importance of the printed word in our world before it is gone.

The transition is highly attractive. With all the ideas, facts and stories of the world saved to computers that can linked together at any time over the Internet, anyone with a connection can access most of the information

of humanity. This is a store of data that the newspaper in which this is published could not hope to contain a tenth of in a 0.1-size font.

This brings the digital word to its greatest � aw, the one that will always make the printed word relevant: understanding. It is the core of education. It would be far better for one to have read, deciphered, loved and become a close relative to one book than to be exposed to many and not have an inkling about the deeper meaning or the beating heart behind any of them.

That is why the printed word is superior. It has a textile solidity to it that the Internet cannot match. It is vastly easier to be distracted when one looks at a computer

screen, where there so many other buttons to press and graphics to look at, than when one has � rm paper and binding in his or her hands. The sensation of a book or newspaper brings a subconscious sense that to immerse oneself into its pages is to dive into them and their message. Only the outside world can disrupt the entry, not the book itself.

Without distraction, there is nothing left for a reader to do with a book except what a reader is supposed to do: take in the writing. Get the information and/or the perspective on it. Comprehend it fully so it sticks to the brain. Explore all the way down to the core of the work, at which point one has truly learned a piece.

That is what the educated person, the

person that is invaluable at any level of society, has achieved in his or her line of work. No matter where we go, we need such an understanding in a speci� c � eld to succeed against whatever angle a problem arrives.

With a horde of problems assailing the world, such a concept is important to realize- and quickly. What can be done about it?

Technology cannot be halted. Traditional media is doomed. A new device that can have the same e� ect of touchable and thinkable intimacy is needed. Perhaps a newspaper with pages like screens that can update their content as it is published. Just one innovation like that may prove the most critical sortie for civilization ever since the monks of Ireland upheld it with parchment and goose quills.

Printed word becomes scarce in digital age

All signed commentaries and letters to the editor appearing

in the INIWA are strictly the opinion of the individual and

do not necessarily reflect the general opinion of the INIWA

staff, adviser or administration. Anyone wishing to submit a

letter is encouraged to do so. Names may be withheld upon

request, but all letters must be signed. The INIWA reserves

the right to edit all letters for grammar and mechanics.

editor in chiefMegan Gretchassociate editorMary Koppyphoto editor Cody Tylernews editorSamuel Martinopinion editorMelissa Horacekentertainment editor Shafer Higgins

sports editorMegan McDunncopy editorSean McGuireassistant photo editorZacharyMeddockfeature editorDani Hertzgraphic designJack Shrader

web masterTory Osmentadvertising editorSara Graybillbusiness editorConnor BensoncirculationKristian KellemsjournalistsSteven Clough Haley PempDonovan DennisRachel Gorsuch

Jesse Whytephotographers Chris Johner Kylar NatheStephanie CottoncartoonistSophie Lockerby

adviserLinda BallewprincipalDr. Fred Anderson

The INIWA, published approximately every four weeks, is the public forum of Great Falls High School, 1900 2nd Ave. S., Great Falls, MT 59405. Phone: 406-268-6356. The INIWA can be reached by e-mail at iniwa@gfps.k12.mt.us Circulation: 1,800.

Adobe Creative Suite 3, speci� cally InDesign CS3 and Photoshop CS3, is used to design and typeset the INIWA. The opinions and views in this publication are not necessarily those of the school administration, INIWA sta� or entire student body. The INIWA sta� reserves the right to edit all submissions.

The INIWA maintains membership in the National Scholastic Press Association, Columbia Scholastic Press Association, the Journalism Education Association, the Montana International Editorial Association and Quill and Scroll.

The INIWA has been awarded the distinction as a National NSPA Pacemaker. In addition to being named the All-State Pacesetter from the University of Montana School of Journalism, the INIWA has also placed Best of Show for general excellence from JEA. The INIWA was named a 2006 Silver Crown Winner as well as the 2007 Montana Pacesetter. Quill and Scroll ranks the INIWA First Place Award for Superior Achievement. The publishers for the INIWA are principal Dr. Fred Anderson and the adviser for the INIWA, Linda Ballew.

4 opinion | editor melissa horacek

i niwa [[i[i]]i]iniwa]niwainiwai]iniwai

contributingcom

mentators

Don

ovan

Den

nis

Mik

aela

Sch

ultz

Rach

el G

orsu

ch

APPLYNOWThe Iniwa is now accepting applicants for the 2009-2010 school

year. We have an esteemed history as one of the top high school

newspapers in the nation. This makes being an Iniwa sta� member a useful addition to any college application.

Not only is joining the class a way to earn the career technical credit, you will � nd opportunities to hone your talents in an inviting and certainly rewarding atmosphere.

Although we are a nationally recognized publication, we cannot maintain that status with the current number of students enrolled for the fall semester. We are in dire need of student participation.

The Iniwa acts as the voice of the student body, providing a forum for you to voice your concerns as well as serving as a visual time capsule for generations to look back upon the past . We cannot a� ord to lose such an important aspect of the school and we need your help to preserve this status.

If you � nd yourself � tting into any of these categories, please take the time to stop by room 112A in the main campus or see your counselor about scheduling a period or two in the journalism room.

• writers •designers

•photographers •cartoonists

•business •advertising/sales

•public relations •online website staff

•circulations •marketing

Newspaper Sta� Needed

COMMENTARY by donovan DENNISAs students, it is our job to make the grade. While

the school year comes to a close and students’ grades plunge, the attacks on unskilled teachers surge. The irritating emails and phone calls sent to our various sta� members from parents increase, and the focus teachers usually use for teaching is being applied towards pleasing the parents rather than instructing. We as students can choose to fail or pass as we choose and should not make excuses about our performance.

I do not intend to doubt the advances of modern psychology, but the idea of failing a class because the teacher does not appeal to a particular students’ learning style is preposterous. For centuries, students have adapted to the requirements of the teacher, not the reverse. Many teachers have adapted to modern advances and chosen varied teaching styles, but others have retained more traditional styles.

Subsequently, many students choose to complain about our � ne teaching sta� . In a world where automation is becoming the norm, it will not be long until teachers are being replaced by robotic counterparts. If we do not learn to value and appreciate the e� ort teachers put forth into educating our young people, the future will hold androids instruction rather than human beings. In Japan, a mechanical teacher has been introduced to young elementary school student with much success. And although the robot is rather gruesome in appearance, using state of the art cameras and circuitry, it is able to scold, discipline and instruct pupils with little interruption. Teaching is one of the hardest jobs in the career � eld, with one of the lowest wages; thus, most teachers teach because they want to, not because they have to.

Teachers do not simply instruct students, but are positive role models and are examples of upstanding citizens in our community. The responsibility students acquire throughout their high school career is tremendous, and in order to live up the task at hand, we need these role models in order to take charge of the future. It is disappointing that many adults believe the world will be plunged into chaos because the youth of the world is incompetent. With this assumption in mind, teachers have been charged with the agonizing mission of morphing our youth into respectable young adults without support from parents, community members and government o� cials. It is di� cult to grasp the di� cult task at hand for our educators, and even more di� cult to understand their capability to tolerate the daily stresses and struggles associated with their occupation.

As well as teaching, educators hold various job titles in the classroom. Chie� y in elementary and primary schools, teachers double as the classroom counselor, nurse, SRO and disciplinarian without assistance from other sta� members. Moreover, schools across the country are requiring teachers to undergo First Aid instruction, gun safety training and psychiatric assistance schooling. In addition, students with severe allergies need constant supervision and immediate aid in case of emergency. With all of these stresses in a classroom, it never ceases to amaze when parents complain about the nit picky details.

In all fact, teachers are a valuable asset to our learning community and needed to be treated like such. They are the backbone of an intelligent society and without them, no country would excel in the new world order.

THE LABEL IS NOT ENOUGH: Teachers undeserving of criticism , judgement

We need you!

5May 21, 2009

TEEN DRIVERS IN NEED OF SECOND THOUGHT

L

AWhat do you think about the way students drive on campus?

L Jessica Trosper ,10

“I think that a lot of students are not very experienced and that effects their driving.”

Jaren Hanson, 10

Q&

“Some kids can be really distracting and don’t think about the other drivers around them.”

Teen driving has been a controversial topic in many states around the U.S. When should teens be allowed to drive? How many people should be permitted in the car? In Montana teens are allowed to drive earlier than in most states (at age 15), and some think this is too early. However the problem lies not with the drivers’ skill but more often with the circumstances.

For instance, the greater the number of people in the car the more distraction; this is countered by restricted licenses. Although there are these regulations there is still one factor involved in driving that we cannot avoid through the

restrictions and tests. Students’ pride... many teens believe that with a new vehicle they are “invincible”. They

want to “show off their wheels” or so to speak. This is where we encounter problems with racing through parking

lots and speeding around corners. Often they do these things to impress their friends, however.... sometimes their invincibility wears off and...CRASH! Cutting down on the crazy driving would keep us out of accidents and on the road. Not to mention what mommy and daddy might have say after their young drivers total the brand new car they just bought. Often, these egos are more prevalent in males, however, not always. It is evident in a large number of situations that the egocentric teens reach their peak of idiocy right after the purchase of their first car. Then, it generally subsides after their first wreck. By controlling or diminishing this peak we can produce safer drivers.

During the initial ego spike there is not much a friend can do but remind their classmate of what a privilege it is to drive at a young age. However, as a friend, always try to keep the wild behavior at a reasonable level and never egg it on because that is when people get hurt.

So get that beautiful car or truck and crank up the stereo, but try to keep it on this planet, and in one piece. As far as driving rights are concerned, we must be careful to contain our crazy egos so we can continue to have an early licensing privilege.

by mikaela SCHULTZ

COMMENTARY by stephanie COTTON

the bottom line

The class of 2009. Just yesterday it seemed we were faint-hearted freshmen coming in from middle school and giddy with excitement to find out what high school is all about

Now we go into our last full week of high school, paying fines, trying to find that science book that we lost sophomore year and taking trips down to the Associate Principal’s office making sure that we don’t have too many absences to keep us from graduating. Many of us have been attending enough graduation parties to the point where we are all sick of pulled pork and potato salad.

Through all the excitement of graduation, it is clear the somewhat easy life of high school is now over. We have all been told that high school is easy. You live under the support from your parents and depending on the classes you took, the homework was minimal.

Some worked hard to give themselves a better

future and some floated through every day. Now it seems graduation has come all too soon, as we go on to further education, or start working and supporting ourselves.

With the past four years behind us, we had a choice to make high school either the best experience of our lives, or not the best. Some got involved with homecoming festivities as well as clubs and other school functions. Those who did now leave high school with memories and friends that will not soon be forgotten. The people that one makes friends with in high school may be some of the most important people in his or her life. In reality, many of the people that he or she knows and see every day at school are no longer going to be there.

It seems that at the end of every school year, we are all excited to take a break from school and enjoy summer knowing that in 99 days we will be back in school with our friends and embark on another school year. But this time it is different; we are going to walk across the podium on a looming Sunday night and that will be the final memory here at Great Falls High.

The Class of 2009 leaves the tradition of the school in the hands of the underclassmen. Each and every year a class

graduates and a new senior class steps in to take the reigns and lead the school into another year. Although this year we were not lucky enough to win a state title in any sports, we did push our winning streak against CMR in football to four years in a row.

For the seniors next year and the following classes, the last year of high school will go by the fastest. From homecoming to spring prom and everything in between, the last week of school comes pretty quick.

Many will probably be diagnosed with senioritis, as they should. Once they are accepted into college or have a plan for when they get out of high school they will find it difficult to stay focused until the end of the year. Many of the teachers will give them a hard time about it, which is understandable.

The main thing is to put in a decent amount of work the first semester and enjoy oneself for your final year of high school. Stay out of trouble for the most part; just because one is are a senior doesn’t mean he or she is invincible. There is a fine line between going overboard and having a good time.

And with all the good things coming up for the 2009-2010 school year, going overboard would be a tragedy.

by steve CLOUGH

As school year draws to

close, one senior reflects

COMMENTARY by rachel GORSUCHYou will probably die from the swine flu…

when pigs fly.The worldwide ‘pandemic’ of the

H1N1 flu that is sweeping our nation is not quite the critical crisis situation one might expect. Despite the dramatized news coverage and serious demeanor of WHO (World Health Organization) and CDC (Center for Disease Control) representatives, the reality remains that we are no more likely to die from the swine flu than from a number of other more routine, everyday things.

Officials have informed us that we should ‘expect’ to see more cases and more deaths. Obviously! We also expect to see more cases and deaths from pneumonia, but there’s no need to declare a pandemic because of them.

As of May 12, 2009, approximately 3,009 cases have been reported in the United States. However, out of all these cases, only three deaths occurred (and let’s not forget that these three individuals were by no means in possession of the most ideal immune systems). Three deaths in two weeks. This data doesn’t exactly scream ‘out of control’, does it?

For those who have thought this through and come to a reasonable conclusion, as a surprising number of Americans finally have, thank you. As for the rest, consider this: at this moment in time, we are roughly 500 times more likely to die from plain old seasonal influenza than the swine

flu. We are approximately 556 times more likely to be killed in an automobile accident, nearly 222 times more likely to be murdered and about six times more likely to be struck by lightning. So perhaps we should be heading inside during thunderstorms, driving a little more safely and making it a point not to induce the urge to kill in others, rather than sweating about the N1H1 strain and how you can avoid it.

Most experts agree that the real ‘danger’ of the situation lies in the fact that no vaccine is present to control the spread. This presents a real dilemma only to those for whom drugs and/or health care is unavailable, a problem prevalent in countries such as Africa or parts of Latin and South America not the United States. Even if you do happen to be one of the lucky few who catches the virus, have no fear! It’s no more deadly than the regular strain, which generally kills only the very young, the very weak, and the very old. You might feel a little sore, nauseated, fatigued, or feverish, but pop a few pills and you should be fine.

Finally, even if it was a serious problem, why worry so much when there’s very little the general public can do about it? ‘Be sure to wash your hands,’ they tell us. Shouldn’t we be doing that anyway? So, if you’ve been covering your mouth lately, bathing, or been conscientious of other people’s health in any way, feel free to now regress into your usual disgusting habits. Nothing could be more important than your need to stay

SWINE FLU: Pandemic scare completely over-hyped

the drawing board

by alan STELLING

As the 2009-2010 student body president, I am really looking forward to watching the entire student body interact and be proud of the campus, our sports and our school in general.

I think that we need as many people as we can supporting the academic teams and the athletic teams in order to make our school a tight knit community that supports one another.

I want the community to know that GFHS is a respectful and fun

learning environment that creates successful students for the world. Although it is not clear at this moment what we are going to do for student council, I want to make sure our campus is clean. Also, I want our students to be learning but having fun, and I want our school to be the “class of class AA.”

Next year we will begin anew and we will try to make our school year a blast. st

uden

t voi

ce

6 feature | editor dani hertz

[COPY MEGAN GRETCH||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||| |||editor in chief]

The character of an individual can allow a person to overcome the most trying of circumstances. Persistence, optimism and compassion define senior Amber Peterson. The term handicap, however, is not even in her vocabulary.

“She doesn’t consider herself different than anyone else. It’s just that she may face different challenges than other people,” said Kevin Gray, Peterson’s step dad.

“When you hear me say dad, I’m talking about Kevin,” Peterson said. As an infant, her parents divorced. Since then, Peterson said, she sees her biological father once a year, normally in the summer. Peterson attributes their rocky relationship to the way her father views her. “He babies me and treats me like I’m handicapped. But I don’t see myself as that. “

Born without the lower part of her spine, including the nerves, Peterson spent the first 48 hours of her life on a ventilator. “She wasn’t supposed to live,” said Dawn Gray, Peterson’s mom. “She had what is called ‘failure to thrive.’ She was on a feeding tube at night. Her kidneys have failed several times. By the time she was 13, she had had well over 13 surgeries. The greatest struggle has been keeping her alive.”

Despite the numerous surgeries, Peterson felt she lived a normal childhood, learning how to overcome the obstacles set before her. “You always had to look at life like it was new. My mom never treated me any differently. She knew what I could and couldn’t do,” Peterson said. “She always encouraged me.”

“Amber has been independent ever since she has been mobile,” Dawn said. “Nobody taught her to climb on the furniture. Amber taught herself. She didn’t want anyone to help her.”

Peterson said, “I think a lot of people assume because you’re in a wheelchair, you don’t want to do things. If I need help, I’ll ask for it. But I like being independent. I can handle it.”

“Amber sees things from a different light she has to do everything on her own and doesn’t like help,” said senior Jessica Keller. “You’ll know when she does need help because it will be the only time she will ask.” Keller added, “The thing that comes to my mind is when someone tried to help push her out to the playground during a fire alarm; she got really upset and put the breaks on her wheelchair. She wouldn’t let them help her.”

“It’s not for a lack of caring, but rather, it’s her independence that keeps you from helping her,” said Dawn.

She is so independent, in fact, that Peterson actively participates in sports. Her grandfather’s passion for pool inspired Peterson to pick

up the sport at age four. Along with pool, she is involved in wheelchair basketball. “Basketball is my passion. I just love it.”

It was at a wheelchair basketball event where a discussion sparked an idea for Peterson’s future. When she first met George Young, a friendly debate soon started. “He automatically assumed it was harder for me because I’d always been in a wheelchair. But it’s natural for me. For me, it was just like learning to walk. I think it would be harder for people who were born able to walk. I think it would be harder to adapt to a wheelchair.”

Next year, Peterson plans to attend Montana State University College of Technology. After her freshman year, she hopes to transfer to the University of Denver where she will major in business and play on their wheelchair basketball.

If she does not turn pro, she wants to start a nonprofit organization that aims to benefit children who end up in wheelchairs.“

Amber has been one of those unconditional friends,” Keller said. “No matter what, she still looks at you with the same friendship even when you look your worst.”

“Amber has been an inspiration to a lot of people. She does not live life like she is hand. She does not make decisions based on difficulty,” said Kevin.

Despite her positive attitude, Peterson continues to face challenges daily. She does not live in a handicap accessible house, and never has. “I think the biggest challenge has to be the

people that look down on you, making sure they know you’re different,” Peterson said. “But Great Falls High is the best school I have ever gone to. I just find it a lot easier to make friends.”

Along with the inspiration she has on peers, she equally inspires her family. “Amber has taught me how to love unconditionally, to trust and that if I want something, you can get it,” Dawn said. “She is truly a joy.”

“She lights a room up,” said Keller. “She comes in and automatically something in the room changes.”

“When Dawn and I were dating, I would be over at the house and Amber would just climb up on the couch. We have always had a lot of fun together,” said Kevin. “She is a lot of fun and she makes life worth living.”

Amber Peterson has every reason to see the world in a negative light. But her close relationship with her family, along with her overwhelmingly great sense of humor, makes it impossible to see anything negatively. One conversation with this extraordinary young woman makes one thing clear. The only thing different about her is her optimistic view on life.

“I’m not small,” Peterson said. “I’m just fun size!”

Amber PetersOn relaxes, looking out of her window. Some tasks would seem impossible for Peterson, however she takes on every obstacle with confidence, vigor and a positive attitude. Her favorite sports include both basketball and playing pool. Peterson is most known for her positive, quirky attitude toward life. [PHOtOs bY CODY TYLER]

Failure to FailExtraordinary woman faces obstacles, not challenges

-Amber Peterson

You always had to look at life like it

was new.

““

7May 21, 2009

The AP Studio Art class completely changed the way I look at art today. Ms. Easton ‘s experience, skill and love for the arts taught me that even an unexplainable element may be the missing ingredient in any piece. She challenged me to venture outside of my comfort zone and forced me to make cakes of all different shapes, colors, and sizes. Although I will not be able to pursue an art related career at USAFA, it will remain one of my favorite pass time hobbies for many years to come. I absolutely loved my AP Art class!

Sophia Lockerby, USAFA, Foreign Area Studies

James Wilbur, COT, Graphic DesignArt has been a passion of mine all my life. When I was

offered the opportunity to take AP Art my senior year I accepted it in a heartbeat. Miss Easton has taught me over the year many new skills and it has been quite the experience. Being in AP art has opened me to many new ideas and areas of expertise in the fundamentals of art as well. I like AP art because its a class in which you can express emotion and soul freely through works of art. I am going to COT for Graphic Design this fall to further my experience in the art world.

Megan Broesder, Fashion Careers CollegeWhen I entered AP Art, I seriously didn’t think I could

even draw a stick figure. But by the end of the year, I was able to quickly sketch accurate portraits. My artistic skills in every area improved more than I had even imagined. Aside from all I learned, being in a class filled with the most creative and artistic students at Great Falls High School was... well, let’s just say there was never a dull moment.

But really, in how many other high school classes to kids get to sit on the tables, paint each other’s faces, and go to coffee shops during class for critiques?

LadderLocal art movement makes way to Pairs Gibson[COPY Dani Hertz||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||| |||feature editor]

It’s hard to believe real life hate groups could enter into Montana’s paradise. However, for one man that reality turned into his worst nightmare.

The man known as J.R.* grew up in a poor family in eastern Washington. He served in the military, got involved with the wrong crowd, did some time in prison and later joined a biker gang which had some members associated with a racist and anti-Semitic group called the Church of the Creator or now the Creativity movement.

This religion known as “Creativity” produced a number of racist books that’s outlined the principles behind the religion. These books known as the “White Man’s Bible” and “On the Brink of a Bloody Racial War” were written by the groups leader, Ben Klassen for the purpose of funding the movement and expanding the racist belief.

By this time the Human Rights Network was very aware of what the organization’s influence had on the surrounding communities. At the same time J.R. was considering leaving the Creativity movement. He did not believe in what they were doing. J.R. contacted the Network Codirector Christine Kaufmann and told her he was done with the movement. He agreed to allow them to confiscate 4,100 books out of a storage room he had access to. The Networks goal was to unglue some of the possible production the Hate movement

had. Since those 4,100 books could not be issued to the public and the movement could not make any profit on them, this weakened they’re organization.

Afterward, J.R. was concerned with his own safety. Since all of his friends were involved in the movement, he felt he needed to get out of Montana. Kaufmann assured him his safety.

Now, the Human Rights Network had to decide what to do with all of the books. Many options came their way, but the Network decided to give boxed sets to different museums so the whole world would be educated on this issue.

And that is why starting on May 21st, the exhibit known as “Speaking Volumes” will be at Pairs Gibson Museum of Art. Lisa Gross, The Curator of Education said, “The exhibit is special because it is such a scary subject for everyone to grasp.” Trying to turn something hateful to something positive is a very difficult for artists to grasp and show viewers physically and intellectually.

More than 100 artists from all over the world have agreed to create art in response to this astonishing group. Viewers will see artist’s responses to the ideas formed by the Creativity Movement in sculpture, video, painting, photography, collage, print making, book arts, bead work, fiber and performance.

*The name of the defector has been replaced by these initials for his safety.

Complimentary ColorsArt teacher shares passion with her students and the community[COPY raCHeL gOrSUCH ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||| |||staff writer]

“If I had to describe Mrs. Easton in two words, they would probably be artsy fartzy,” said AP Art student Sophia Lockerby.

Lisa Easton (who is involved in the upcoming Paris Gibson art exhibit) is the AP Art teacher at Great Falls High School. “Mrs. Easton is fabulous,” commented Lockerby. Easton’s students not only enjoy her as a person, but admire her as a professional, “I totally respect her because she’s so good at what she does and has a real passion for it. I love the fact that she still loves what she does and is even able to make some money off of it,” added Lockerby.

Some might assume any art class is all fun and games (an easy pass class) but AP art is actually quite a challenge, “It’s harder than you think it will be, you have to work on it every day otherwise you will get behind, and to make a good piece you really have to put in a lot of time,” said senior Morgan Davey. But while AP art is a lot of work it’s also a good time, “The only thing was that it was just lot of work putting together the portfolios,” said fellow classmate Jaylene Hoscheid.

“My favorite project this year was probably the concentration which is where you focus on one subject and use different media to explore it,” said Davey, “I liked the being on your own and not

having to have her tell you how to do this piece.” Hoscheid was thinking along the same lines, “I liked the breadth because you could do pretty much whatever you wanted to do.”Many students who are considering pursuing a career in art have found the class very useful, “It’s definitely a good class because you get a better experience and more hands on stuff,” said Hoscheid.

For those coming into AP art next year or for those who are considering taking it at some point in the future Jaylene highly recommends it, “It’s a fun class and is something you should definitely take if you are interested in art.” No matter the obstacles you can be sure a fun teacher and a fun year are in store for you.

[PHOTO COURTESY BOB DUrDen]

TheHuman

SummerMovies

8 entertainment | editor shafer higgins

EZ Combo #1Two Crispy Tacos, small Potato Ole and small soft drink

Available Monday thru Friday between 10:30 and 1:30. Use coupon or GFHS Student ID. O� er expires June 6, 2009.

EZ Combo # 3Two Softshell Tacos, small Potato Ole and small soft drink

For Only $2.75

Bison Lunch Special10th Ave. South Location Only

or

Beef only

‘Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince’

[COPY HALEY PEMP||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||journalist]

Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince is the highly awaited sixth movie, coming out July 17, in the spellbinding wizard series. ‘He-Who-Must-Not-Be-Named’ (Voldemort, played by Ralph Fiennes) is the antagonist who has everyone in the muggle and wizard world wrapped around his little � nger, and now the formerly under lock and key castle of Hogwarts is no longer the refuge it once was. Harry (Daniel Radcli� e) starts to become more increasingly aware that danger lies everywhere, but Dumbledore is focused on preparing him for the � nal face-o� with Lord Voldemort.

Together they travel to � nd the key to ending the reign of He-Who-Must-Not-Be-Named. Dumbledore (Michael Gambon) recruits an old friend and colleague, Professor Horace Slughorn (Jim Broadbent), because he believes he holds crucial information. Meanwhile, the students are under attack from a very di� erent adversary: hormones.

Guns, grit and mayhem in subway-centered action � ick

[COPY SEAN MCGUIRE|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||copy editor]

The average Joe cannot seem to get a moment’s peace as far as action thrillers are concerned. As long as screenwriters keep rolling, a wide array of thugs, masterminds and killers are armed and ready to give them the � ght of their lives.

This time around, the average Joe is Walter Garber (Denzel Washington), an ordinary little subway dispatcher. He ensures his network of underground trains are on time and going without a hitch. One day he discovers that well-armed criminals have shanghaied one of the trains.

Their leader, Ryder (John Travolta) promises to kill every passenger on the train if he does not get an exorbitant amount of money. Garber must use his mastery of the subway system to defeat Ryder.

The movie is a remake of a � lm released in 1974.

‘Taking of Pelham 1,2,3’

Boy wizard battles against Dark Lord, raging hormones

‘Star Trek’

[COPY MARY KOPPY||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||associate editor] No, this is really not your father’s Star Trek. Then again, it sort of is.

Director J.J. Abrams struck a perfect balance between the classic Trekkie in� uence and modern action genre in this new spin on the cult classic.

With incredible special e� ects reminiscent of the ‘Star Wars’ franchise and tasteful nods to the die hard fans, Abrams created art, a movie powerful enough to stand alone, but familiar enough to entice fans to the theater in droves.

Although Abrams’ writers were long time Trekkies, many devoted fans feared placing their beloved movie into the hands of a man who confessed to having been a bigger fan of ‘Star Wars’ as a child.

Abrams recognized the perceived threat he posed when he accepted the contract. The special e� ects that, in part, de� ned the � lm, deviated from the classic brainy theme of the original series.

In another risky move, Abrams cast a relative unknown, Chris Pine, to play the infamous Captain Kirk, and Zachary Quinto, best known for his role as villain Silar on ‘Heroes’, as Kirk’s pointy-eared lieutenant, Spock.

Spock, Kirk, Uhara and rest of out-of-this-world crew rocket onto silver screen to this critic’s acclaim

‘Terminator Salvation’

[COPY SEAN MCGUIRE||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||copy editor]

There are many people who did or did not want to see this well-known, explosive and violent franchise terminated. Those who did not will see their wish consummated with the May 21 release of ‘Terminator: Salvation.’

This time around, John Connor (Christian Bale) has emerged as the leader of the human resistance to the machines of Skynet. This is a military computer that came to life and annihilated a prestigious portion of the human race in a nuclear attack. Now Connor, who is destined to help humanity survive, is doing so with all the weapons he can get.

But a twist arrives in the form of Marcus Wright (Sam Worthington). He is a stranger who doesn’t remember much about where he’s been save that he was on death row. Connor has to decide whether Skynet sent him from the future to wreak havoc, as they did with Arnold’s famous character, or if he is truly where he says he’s from. Both Connor and Marcus wind up united in a quest into the lair of Skynet, where they discover a horrible truth that spells out the bane of what is left of humankind.

Purists may be irritated by a couple of things about the � lm. Most glaringly, Arnold Schwarzenegger does not play the title role in the � lm.

Fourth cyborg � lm lacks former star Schwarzenegger

‘UP’

[COPY JESSE WHYTE|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||sta� writer]

Up, up and away. On May 29, prepare for Disney Pixar’s newest master-piece in 3D: UP.

It is a story of an old man who longs for adventure and excitement. Carl Fredricksen, voiced by Ed Asner, is a balloon salesman and has the perfect way to start his journey. He surprises his neighbors when he � nally takes o� with thousands of balloons attached to his house. Carl and his house � y high over the city and he soon � nds Russell, an eight-year-old Wilderness Explorer, hid-ing on his front porch. Russell is a hyperactive young boy who happily embarks on the adventure of a lifetime.

Carl’s dream of traveling to South America � nally becomes reality. With a new front lawn and dangerous and new creatures their journey has just be-gun.

Disney and Pixar have worked in conjunction since 1995, the year Toy Story was created. They have produced 10 � lms together. In the beginning of 2006, Walt Disney Corporations bought Pixar. CEO tycoon, Steve Jobs, owns both Pixar and Apple Inc.

Cranky old salesman on adventure with stowaway

‘ T r a n s f o r m e r s : Revenge of The Fallen’

[COPY SEAN MCGUIRE|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||copy editor]

What would an American summer be without a big, loud and big-budget action movie to assail the senses? Michael Bay has got that need covered.

On June 24, 2009, Paramount Pictures releases ‘Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen’, Bay’s sequel to the 2007 action/adventure hit ‘Transformers’. Both � lms are both based on the line of robot toys that could be turned into cars or similar vehicles and back. Like humans, there are good Transformers (Autobots) and bad Transformers (Decepticons). They are locked in a battle that engulfs the planet Earth and its helpless residents.

In the � lm, Shia LeBeouf reprises his role as Sam Witwicky, a teenager pulled into this struggle. Megan Fox returns as Sam’s attractive friend Mikaela Banes. Tyrese Gibson is also back as Sergeant Epps.

Robots return, pull teens, back into cross� re

9May 21, 2009

[COPY MELISSA HORACEK||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||opinion editor]

A single event can forever alter a life, a fact that inevitably has become the cardinal in� uence in songwriting. Existence is full of the most extreme positive and negative occurrences. Some transpire gradually, giving the recipient ample time to deal with all that is being thrown at them. Mostly, it seems life takes these jabs consistently, not allowing that necessary window of time to cope.

For Airborne Toxic Event singer and guitarist, Mike Jollett, life did indeed place him in the midst of enduring his most hellish trials, one after the other. His mother’s diagnosis of cancer, his own problematic development of a genetic autoimmune disease and breakup with his girlfriend all became a catalyst to Jollett’s songwriting, spurring sheets of inspired genius.

Jollett’s misfortune has become the delight of alternative rock fans worldwide. The Airborne Toxic Event’s 2008 self-titled album has provided them the popularity rarely experienced through a freshman release. ATE’s lyrics take all that heartbreak, despair,

and solitude can be and o� er it up to listeners in the form of poetic story-telling. Depending on whether there is the right vocal emotion and appropriate tempo, this method can turn into something simply breathtaking or a disastrous misuse of studio time.

Fortunately, ATE knows exactly how to grasp the listener’s heart valves, twisting as tightly as possible without inducing enough sensation to trigger cardiac arrest. The album’s opening track, “Wishing Well,” is the � nest example of lyrical story-telling. Keyboard and guitar break the song in, setting up Jollett’s narrative brilliantly, as demonstrated with the following lyrics, “Well you’re tossed in the air/And you fell and you fell/Through the dark blue waters/Where you cast your spell/Like you were just a wish that could turn out well.” “Papillon” has the type of cadence that not only permits the listener time to contemplate Jollett’s lyrical desperation, but dance as well.

Lyrics drive a song. They set the tone, the rhythm and depending on how relatable they are to a listener, they even have the ability to determine a track’s success. One of the chief tests of songwriting is being able to apply enough detail of a circumstance to a

song in order to keep its originality and signi� cance, but generalize it enough for the listener to relate it its contents. ATE does this seamlessly, keeping past experiences and current concerns as universal as possible. In “Happiness Is Overrated,” the events that progress after a break up are depicted in this impersonal/personal manner “Because losing you/Was something I always. . . Did so well”. The band’s breakthrough single, “Sometime Around Midnight” is the classic story of running into an ex-lover at a bar. It depicts the emotions that race through the conscience: � eeting glances and acknowledgments that seem to the intended target like the most dire moments of an hour. This song is a prime example of how ATE is able to bring together all the emotion through not only the generalized lyrics, but sensation in vocals and buildup up of instrumental accompaniment.

Of the album’s 10 tracks, “Something New” seems to be the most delicate, with a refreshing addition of female vocals. Again, rhythmical story-telling makes an appearance; “I got this heavy debt, I’ve got nothing left/But this daunting weight slung round my neck/You got the callous mouth, all your endless doubts/

We spent this 15 weeks, trying to work it out/ Do think we’re getting to something new?”). In “Missy,” Jollett lets all his frustrations work through his vocals when he screams out, “But I swear there’s still some good in me / And I think if you stuck around you’d see/ All the honest attempts at integrity, I once had.”

Whether or not ATE will reach that sophomore slump is irrelevant. As much of a shame as that circumstance would be, Jollett could fall right back into novel writing and the other respective members of ATE (guitarist/keyboardist Steven Chen, bassist Noah Harmon, drummer Daren Taylor and keyboardist/violist Anna Bulbrook) could also return to their vocations’ pre-rock star splendor. The group has already created one of the most infectious pieces of alternative rock today, showing that no, rock is not dead. The fans just have to dig a little bit deeper for the poetic story-telling, the lyrical genius and precise instrumental accompaniment so greatly sought after.

One album into their career, ATE’s lyrics have been able to turn heads in both the Indie and the mainstream, showing little downside in their capabilities. That says something.

S O M E T I M E A R O U N D M I D N I G H T

Cha Cha: Got questions? It’s got the answers[COPY SHAFER HIGGINS|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||

|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||entertainment editor]For those who do not know about ChaCha and therefore

are unable to text ChaCha and � nd out what ChaCha does, who ChaCha is, and why ChaCha exists, this should make things easier.

According to ChaCha, “ChaCha‘s human guides search the web to answer questions that you call in or text.” ChaCha is a free service, despite rumors and is funded through advertising.

ChaCha debuted at the January 2008 Sundance Film Festival and has been steadily gaining users ever since. It was invented by Scott A. Jones and Brad Bostic and is based out of Carmel, Indiana, although its operatives are independent contractors who can reside throughout varying parts of the world.

The phone number for ChaCha is 242-242, which spells ChaCha. A person “ChaChas” (a new ultra modern verb) by texting this number a question. An automated text is instantly sent back saying something along the lines of “Thank you for ChaCha’n. ChaCha has received your q and is currently working on an answer.” Individuals who work for the company receive your questions and � nd the information, sending you an answer once they’ve found it.

But for some people, ChaCha has become more than just a source of free answers to questions they can’t wait to Google or petty amusement. For them, ChaCha is an obsession. “It’s really hard to go a day without using ChaCha,” said sophomore Traci Lukkason, “I use four texts everyday and I’m really disappointed when I reach my limit.”

In order to remain free, ChaCha places a limit on the number of

questions a person can ask a day to four. But enthusiasts need not worry. ChaCha gives plenty of notice as to how many texts one has left in the day.

You may ask the purpose of this new craze called ChaCha. For the answer, consult ChaCha. According to Lukkason, “ChaCha comes in handy. I can use it when I get into arguments and when I’m right it’s really good.”

“ChaCha is a great way to learn miscellaneous facts and fun ideas during lunch,” said sophomore Chris Constantino “I like how I can I just pick up my friend’s phone and start accessing everything at the touch of a keypad.” You heard it here � rst kids! ChaCha is not only a source of technophilic throw away fun, it can actually come in dire use in everyday situations.

So � ip open that phone, warm up those texting digits and text 242-242 to � nd out some quick information about whales or Oprah or fad diets or Kirstie Alley.

LA’s Airborne Toxic Event makes promising debut effort

spring fling

• In the Old Gym. • Seniors arrive at 2 p.m.

• Raffl e door prizes• Underclassmen at 3:15 p.m.

• Cost is $3 with student i.d.; $4 without • Free Dippin’ Dots and treats

Caring...Affordable...Confi dential...211 9th Street South 406.454.3431

If you’re interested in joining our teen board and want more information, check www.myspace.com/gfteenboard

If you are looking for a place to go, where your questions are answered

openly and honestly; where you can go for an annual exam on a sliding fee scale; where you can get birth control that you can afford or where you can

go for testing and treatment for STD’s, Planned Parenthood is that place.

Caring...Affordable...Confi dential...211 9th Street South 406.454.3431

If you’re interested in joining our teen board and want more information, check www.myspace.com/gfteenboard

May 21, 2009 Come to yearbook autograph party

General distribution will be on May 26 only after school in room 112.

10 sports| editor megan mcdunn

815 Central AvenueGreat Falls, MT 59401

This may be the most important test you will ever take.

We can help because we CARE.

•Free Pregnancy Tests•Free Post Abortion Counseling

•Free Layette For Signing Up For Earn While You Learn Program

•Teen M.O.P.S.•24 Hour Hotline: 1-800-395-HELP

Pregnant? Not sure? Need Answers?

You have the right and options!

It’s your choice!

Mon., 12-8 p.m. and Tues.,12-4 p.m.717 2nd Avenue North, Great Falls

406.727.1850www.life-way.org

Right on Track

Senior Kristina Teasley sends her shot put soaring towards the heavens as she practices outside of Memoiral Stadium. She hopes to break the girls’ shot put record at divisonals or state. [Photo By LAUREN SMITH]

[COPYDONOVAN DENNIS|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||sta� writer]

The Great Falls High track and � eld team has many up-and-coming stars who are expected to place well at the state meet come the end of May.

As of the Great Falls-CMR duel, many jumpers and throwers have quali� ed, although the team has fallen behind on the runners’ side of the baton. Most quali� ers will meet the qualifying requirements at the divisional meet to be held at Memorial Stadium May 22 and 23. In order to attend the state meet, students must have quali� ed via various times before the divisional meet, or place in the top � ve � nishers at the meet itself. Students cannot qualify with only times at the divisional meet, however. GFH athletes will be up against sti� competition because all of the schools from the eastern half of the state will be attending the meet. This includes high-

ranked schools from Billings and Butte as well as Helena and Bozeman teams.

So far, several throwers and jumpers have quali� ed along with a handful of runners. Many were hoping to qualify at the crosstown meet, but high winds and cold temperatures led to poor running conditions on the track. However, despite challenges at the crosstown meet, the Bison runners and � eld athletes still have a chance to qualify for state. Lauren Smith quali� ed for state in the 100-meter dash and freshman standout Rachel Stewart is expected to place well come Divisionals. Distance coach Bob Stingley has insight for Friday. “We are all working hard towards the bubble, but it will be a close call,“ he said.

Sprinting coach Scott Donisthorpe added, “We hope have many place in the top half at state, but we will always do well in the future because most of our team is younger talent.”

Track team prepares for state meet

R[COPY MEGAN MCDUNN|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||| sports editor]

“The boxer is doing what is expected of him: bleeding from the nose.”

Junior Stephen Horn did precisely what sports commentator Harry Carpenter said is expected of a boxer.

Even though Horn is not technically a boxer, while sparring junior Charlie Bartram, Horn broke his nose from a blow to the face while practicing for the crosstown smoker.

Almost every week night a person could � nd participants of this year smoker sparring, hitting punching bags or running to build stamina at the Electric City Boxing Club.

Junior Ross Masters, who will be competing in the 130-pound weight class, said, “We work out for about two hours each night to try and get in shape.” He believes the only way to win is to make sure you have enough stamina to make it through the whole match. Matches will be three rounds of 1.5 minutes each. Last year, Master’s

competitor, Tony Grub, beat him by outlasting him. To win, Masters stated, “I can’t run out of gas, so I try to run every night to get in shape. “

Horn feels he needs to try and build strength because in order to defeat his opponent Dustin Farren, he will have to be able to get in some good hard punches on him. Farren has more experience than, so Horn thinks it will be ”a hard fought match.” But Horn is con� dent that he has a good chance to pull out a win.

Fellow competitor junior Julian Wichman feels the smoker will have some really close, intense matches between all those who are competing. He says, ”The biggest thing for everyone competing to remember is to listen to their coach and to not become intimidated by their opponent. “

The battle of the schools is to be held May 23 at the Paris Gibson Education Center. The rounds will begin at 6 p.m. Tickets are available in the � nance o� ce for $10.

eady

umbleSmoker event set to run on Saturday

2PUT YOUR DUKES UP Junior Ross Masters practices on the punching bags to prepare for the smoker. He will box in the 130-lb weight class.[Photo By KYLER NATHE]

The Best WokRestaurant

Come In or Take Out Drive Thru Available

1800 10th Ave. S. Great Falls, MT 59405 727.2727

CALL NOW: 406.771.8772

START LIVING A BEAUTIFUL LIFE

Learn more about our cosmetology, esthetics, nails, & massage programs and start on the path to an exciting career in the beauty industry

www.tspaGreatFalls.comThe Salon Professional Academy Great Falls501 2nd Street South, Great Falls, MT 59405

453-7070

•espresso and lattes

•juice bar with smoothies

•great desserts

•open Mon.-Fri. 10am 4pm

11May 21, 2009

[COPY MELISSAHORACEK|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||| opinion editor]

Tennis is nearing the end of the season, with each team sending players to state competition.

The Girl’s tennis team brought home the Northern Divisional Championship trophy for the third straight year. The girls beat the Glacier Wolfpack by two points.

The team qualified five girls for the upcoming weekend’s state tournament. The doubles teams of senior Sophia Lockerby and sophomore Rachel Gorsuch and seniors Jaimee Tierney and Shelby Robinson took first and second respectively.

“It was amazing to get to state. I really wanted to go to state last year, but didn’t quite make it, so when we qualified this year it fulfilled all my wildest hopes and dreams,” said Gorsuch.

Junior Ellie Crum was the lone singles player who qualified, winning the girl’s singles title.

“I was really happy that we were able to qualify so many people for state,” said Crum. “Our team really stepped up and played well when it counted.”

The girls team will be looking to build on their second

place finish from last year’s state tournament and they are hoping to be able to hang a banner up in the gym after thirty one years without a girls’ tennis state championship.

The boy’s team also brought home the Northern Divisional championship trophy, improving on their second place finish at last year’s divisional. The boys tied with their cross-town rival CMR to earn the title. Junior teammates Joe Marra and Kyle Rohrer played each other for the boy’s singles title, but Rohrer had to retire because of an ankle injury. “I’m still going to be able to go to state but at the time I wasn’t able to walk and it was upsetting that I came all that way to forfeit,” said Rohrer. Boys doubles this year lacked advanced players, an issue that will be alleviated come next spring. Rohrer said “

The boys’ is more of a growing team right now. We have some people that are just starting and returning next year.”

The sophomore doubles team of Karch Lockerby and Eli Meyer were the only other boys to qualify, taking second in the boys doubles division.

The team will travel to Bozeman to compete in the state tournament to be held Friday and Saturday at Bobcat Tennis Center.

[COPY COnnOR bEnSOn|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||| business editor]

As spring comes to a close so does the regular season for the Lady Bison softball team. Summer approaches along with playoff matches and possibly a state tournament for the squad.

They played in a valuable non-league triple header against three schools last weekend at the Multi-sports Complex. They were the last games for the girl’s squad before their playoff matches. Despite falling 2-1 to Hellgate, the Bison finished the weekend with a 2-1 record. They defeated Missoula Big Sky 12-4 and Missoula Sentinel 10-0.

Coming off these two big wins should help the squad carry some momentum into their playoff game against C.M. Russell this weekend.

The Bison, who are seeded sixth, will battle their crosstown rivals in a three game playoff series on Friday. The squad finished the season with a 9-11 record. The Rustlers won all three of their non-league games this weekend and ended their regular season

with a 17-5 record. The three crosstown games played between these two teams should prove to be tough for both sides as this will determine a spot in the 2009 Class AA State Tournament.

The team is led by juniors Brittany Kumm, Kelsey McDaniel and Ronni Scott; and seniors Erika Jenkins, Nicki

Banach, Chea Hollis, Heather LaRouqe and Ashley Urick. L a s t

year the s o f t b a l l squad did not earn a chance to play in the state tournament after losing to Butte in the

playoffs but this year their chances are looking better. Butte still remains one of the team’s toughest competitors this season.

A solid hitting line-up, balanced positions, and talent at both the upperclassman and frosh levels are some strengths of this year’s team. A freshman, Lacey Bushong, and senior, Ashley Urick, are the team’s two leading pitchers.

The hitting lineup is led by juniors Brittany Kumm and Kelsey McDaniel, along with senior players Nicki Banach and Chea Hollis.

[COPY TORY OSMENT|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||web editor]

Imagine riding a bike as fast cars are driven on tenth, we’ve all heard of a runner’s high, but what about a cyclist’s high? Imagine high intensity and the thrill of outriding the competition. Cycling is a high energy and highly popular sport in Europe, but it is making itself more and more popular among the states, even Montana.

The Central Montana Junior Cycling (CMJC) team is a cycling team developed to get kids in Montana interested in cycling, the goal is to get kids and teens associated with the basics and into the cycling community.

Recently, CMJC has been equipped with a U23 Division, this means that the team has expanded to include young adults. Formerly a junior (10 -18) team, CMJC now allows members up to 22 years of age.

CMJC offers an entry level program for kids and young adults to give cycling a shot for the first time, “All riders will start in this program,” said Dean Hatch, team coach, “if they show dedication then they may be offered a position on the Montana Junior Development Team.” The Montana Junior Development Team not only races in state but travels out of state to places like Boise, Idaho and Salt Lake City, Utah for races.

The team provides a road bike and jersey for team members as long as they remain part of the team, the only fee is $25 a year for the entry level, Montana Junior Development requires additional fees.

Racing seasons span from March to mid August for the Road Division and August through November for the Cyclocross Division.

Interested riders can pay a visit to the team website CMJCycling.org or contact Dean Hatch at director@cmjcycling.org or 788-5166.

WORLD IN RACKET Junior Ellie Crum returns a serve during a match at Practice. [PHOTO BY CODY TYLER]

TOUR DE M O N T A N A Cyclists from all over the state as well as Canada race for the win in the belt Creek Omnium on May 9. The race is annually held in belt, MT. However, the event was moved to a more difficult course in Highwood because of road c o n s t r u c t i o n . [PHOTO BY TORY OSMEnT]

FORCE

lamrandG s Softball team looks toward playoffs, state tournament

the paceLocal cycling blazing at new level

INTO Competiton heats up as both male and female players qualify for the intra-state tournament

STEP UP TO THE PLATE Senior Chea Hollis swings at a pitch during a Crosstown match against CMR last Thursday. The Rustlers defeated the bison 5-4. [PHOTO BY CODY TYLER]

no man’s land

–senior Nicki Banach

““

When team members get frustrated, it’s important to

keep them up and motivated.

arting

“Crosstown was intense winning all four years while I was in high school”

“The whole year was so great. Junior year has been my best year thus far.”

“Being my fi rst homecoming, this year got me excited for the upcoming years.”

S

-Senior Ashley Urick- -Junior Rory Kain-

PhotAnother year comes to an end.

-Frosh Kristian Kellems-

12 incamera| editor zack meddock

1

2

Taking a breath, Junior Emily Jacobson races to the � nish struggling to stay ahead of the pack. Photo By Zach Meddock

Junior Julie Seamen participates in experiments on the Yellowstone trip, funding for next year’s trip may be eliminated. Photo By Lauren Smith

3 Junior Paul Martin casts his vote in the mock election, which closely mimicked the actual election. Photo By Alyse Zwiefelhofer

4On his way to victory, Junior Zach Wichman regains his breath after his competition. Photo By Katie Dobbs

5 At the crosstown football game, the rival innercity mascots take a hit at each other. Photo By Lauren Smith

6Senior Chad Dobson’s tight end reception brought a 30 yard gain in a win over crosstown rival CMR. Photo By Cody Tyler