7301 E. Brown Road, Mesa, AZ Volume 21 Issue 6 March 2009 News Burning rubber at the Briefs Red Mountain Auto Show Spring Break “We give away three first and third hour, and the tires and aftermarket suspen- of customized cars. awards for the top three in awards will be given out sion. “This is their own person- Spring Break begins on Mon. each category,” said Mr. then. “Kids here see their al auto show, and it’s a good March 16 and runs until Fri. Johnson. “A lot of kids here have friend’s ride and want to way to send off everybody March 20. There will be no All the money raised at cars that they have modified, take a closer look at it,” said to Spring Break,” said Mr. school this week. the Auto Show goes to a and this is their time to show Parker. Johnson. good cause. them off to their friends,” Last year students asked If you want to show off Hot Dog Day “The money goes to Auto said senior Christopher the vehicle owners what they your ride and earn an award Club as a fundraiser, mainly Parker. did to their vehicle. This to display in your garage, be On Fri. March 13, FFA will be By Christopher Wiggins to be used for their trip to Parker will be entering his helped teach students about sure to wash, wax and clean hosting a Hot Dog Day in the Staff Writer agriculture building to raise Firebird Raceway,” said Mr. Toyota 4Runner into the 4x4 the cars. The same thing will your car. Talk to Mr. John- money for events. Hot dogs Do you have a car that Johnson. category, which he has lifted, be expected this year. Stu- son in room 343 to get an cost $1. sets off car alarms when you The entry fee is $7 for installed large aftermarket dents will be seeing a variety entry form before March 13. drive by? How about a car one category and $3 for that hits the speed bumps in any additional categories if 2009 Voices Writing the parking lot for being so turned into the Bookstore Contest low? Then, the 18th Semi- by March 6. A late fee will Congratulations to the first Annual Red Mountain Auto apply from March 9 through place winners and honorable Show is for you. March 12, which will bring mentions of the 2009 Voices “There will be at least 50 the total to $15 that can also Writing Contest. Senior Wil- [vehicles], just as many as be paid to the Bookstore. liam Sowards won first place last year,” said Mr. Johnson All entries turned in the day for poetry, and sophomore the Red Mountain automo- of the show will be $20 and Ian Heward, junior Crista tive teacher. “[Students] get will need a receipt from the Procopio, and seniors John to see a bunch of different Bookstore. Quinonez and Megan Whitney received honorable vehicles and learn about “This year’s Auto Show mentions. Senior Carly Farr them.” is going to be March 13, won first place for her essay. There are 13 categories which is a Friday,” said Mr. Senior Gage Schaper won and awards for each category Johnson. PHOTO COURTESY OF AUTO CLUB first place for short story, and to be won between 50 or The Auto Show will be This Volvo was displayed by junior Kristopher Andaverde in last year’s Auto Show. This year’s Auto Show junior Samantha Bartlett won more vehicles this year. in the morning between will feature a wide variety of cars. honorable mention. Great job! Late Start Student Council elections Wed. March 25 is a late start day. School will commence Coming soon to Red Mountain promptly at 9:30 a.m., and “My favorite part about accompanied by a parent or turned in, I’ll sit down with dents’ surprise, this is false. sweep will be enforced. Student Council is that it’s legal guardian. administration and make sure To qualify as a member of like a family,” says senior “Students have to take the that everyone is eligible to be Student Council, there is NHS Induction and student body vice-pres- class if they want to run,” an official candidate.” a minimum GPA standard On Wed. March 25 from 7 ident, Mariah Kohles. “We says Ms. Gates, Student Preconceived notions of 2.5, and to simply steer p.m. to 9 p.m., NHS will be all have a certain role, and Council advisor. “This year about the prerequisites to their record clean of fight- inducting new members in it’s not defined by our posi- they can sign up for the class joining Student Council ing, drinking, and drug the auditorium. For more tion. It’s defined by who we and register for it if they might include the idea that involvement both on and off information, talk to Ms. Sokol By Abagail Davis are. We’re all friends, but want, or I can get them a every current member of campus. in room 221. Editor we have a lot of differences, schedule change very easily. Student Council maintains a Completing the packet and with that it brings a lot They get a packet at that 4.0 GPA or a requirement to students receive at the meet- AIMS Testing Red Mountain’s Student of different groups together. meeting and they have about involve themselves in a vast ing on April 7 is vital to their Council isn’t the only thing I feel that there are a lot of a week to fill it all out and number of extra-curricular eligibility to run for office. The math and science AIMS found behind the doors of class barriers in other clubs get it turned in. Once it’s activities. To many stu- “The packet consists of tests will take place on Wed. room 237 during fourth that I’m in. With Student having to get 100 student April 1 and Thurs. April 2, hour. An immense amount Council, it’s not like that. respectively. signatures, they need to get of motivation, perseverance, We all carry our own weight, their speech approved, three and school pride fill that we all have a role, we all teacher recommendations Relay for Life room within a small group of have to participate, and if we (two of them currently on students. Relay for Life will be on Sat. don’t, we all fall apart.” their schedule), and a letter Student Council seems and Sun. April 4 and 5 on Red Any student, whether they of intent stating what posi- Mountain’s track. The event like an intimidating and be a soon-to-be junior or tion they’re running for,” begins at 1 p.m. on Saturday sometimes out-of-reach club senior, interested in joining says Ms. Gates. and runs until 7 a.m. on Sun- to join on campus. In reality, Student Council must attend day. Be sure to join a team it’s simple and easy to be- a mandatory election meet- PHOTO BY ALANA BRAMHALL to raise money for cancer come a part of its welcoming ing on April 7 at 6 p.m. in Student Council members Shalice Allred (11), Daniel Horner (11) and See STUDENT research. atmosphere. room 237. Students must be Rory Lindbergh (10) work hard to bring spirit to Red Mountain. COUNCIL Page 2

In d e x News 1-4 mODEL UN SPRING HOLIDAYS opinion 5-7 ASKYLA Changing the world one See what Red Mountain is up The up-and-coming band focus 8-11 resolution at a time. to this spring! that’s taking Red Mountain by A&e 12-14 storm.

sports 15-16 - page 3 PHOTO BY VALERIE - page 8 PHOTO BY VALERIE – page 12 PHOTO COURTESY OF NUNEZ RAMIREZ MODEL UN

[email protected] www.mpsaz.org/rmhs/academics/english/newspaper Please recycle March 2009 2 Ne w s News Journalistic Writing Briefs Recognized as English credit together, and we rewrote Mountain’s journalism self-paced. You have to be change their schedule for Senior Cap and the course to include a class. a lot more self-disciplined next year. Gown literature component. We Whether they are shoot- because the teacher isn’t “I love journalism and Senior Cap and Gown pho- also made it a more com- ing for the standard or going to be hounding you I love being able to teach tos will take place on Thurs. prehensive course where scholastic diploma, all Ari- about getting your stuff it to the students,” said March 26 from 7 a.m. to 1 students will be learning zona high schoolers must done on time, like teach- Mrs. Saquella. “I think it’s p.m in the auditorium. a lot more about media in have four English credits ers might do in a smaller a real life skill that they general and not just focus- in order to graduate. Jour- literature class.” could not only use in col- By Valerie Nunez Pirates ing on newspaper.” nalistic Writing, which can Any students interested lege, but they could take Editor-in-Chief The Roar currently be taken for a semester or in joining the staff of The it beyond college and into of Penzance produces about one issue year, earns students of any Roar should speak to their their careers because it’s On Wednesday, Feb. 4, per month and has a staff grade an English credit, counselor immediately to real life writing.” From March 31 to April 4, with an excited shout, Mrs. Red Mountain’s perform- of 10 students, which not just seniors. However, Saquella announced that ing arts department will be ranges from sophomores those interested in Jour- Red Mountain’s Journalis- showing the annual spring to seniors. Mr. Nebel, the nalistic Writing should tic Writing class (formerly musical, Pirates of Penzance. head of Red Mountain’s keep in mind that the class Newslab), which produces Tickets cost $5 for students English department, hopes requires much motivation and $8 for adults and are The Roar, has been accept- that more students will and hard work in order to available in the bookstore. ed by Arizona universities be encouraged to join the produce The Roar. as an English credit. class, now that it counts as “You don’t want to tell “We had to totally April Break a credit. any kid to take Newslab rewrite the class’s curricu- “The students who are if they’re not going to be There is no school on Fri. lum,” said Mrs. Saquella, on the newspaper staff motivated for it. A student April 10. who has been the school right now work hard, but shouldn’t take the class paper’s advisor for the past there aren’t many students. because they think it will three years. “Last year, Prom Assembly It’s too small a staff for be easy, like a regular Eng- I worked with teachers the size of the school and lish class,” said Mr. Nebel. PHOTO BY AMBERLY WENSLEY On Thurs. April 9, Student from Mesa High School, the number of students “If anything, it’s harder, Council will be holding Mountain View, Westwood Red Mountain’s The Roar is a school newspaper produced out there,” said Mr. Nebel, because you have more entirely by students. The students of Journalistic Writing a prom assembly in the and Red Mountain. All of auditorium. who once taught Red deadlines, and it’s more (formerly known as Newslab) will now receive an English credit the journalism teachers got for being in the class. Dance Concert On Thurs. and Fri. April 23 and 24, Red Mountain’s dance classes will have Student Council their spring dance concert in the auditorium at 7 p.m. Tickets will be available in Bringing school spirit since 1988 the bookstore. STUDENT COUNCIL best friends, Kohles and you want, and you’re still trying commitment.” “I think finances are a continued from Page 1 senior, Jessica Davenport, going to succeed whether Student Council elec- big thing with the budget NGC Assembly this year’s student body you have a ton of other tions are just around the crunches everywhere,” On Wed. April 22 during president, ran for office commitments or just a few. corner and students already says Ms. Gates. “It’s a To run for any officer third hour, New Global together. It’s really rewarding.” involved are making really tough thing that position, a student must Citizens (NGC) will hold an “As far as advice goes, “It’s time consuming, preparations, especially ju- students and teachers and have passed five classes assembly with a movie to it’s a time commitment. I but I’m president of RIF nior Alexis Bramhall who staff all have to deal with. their prior semester and not promote their cause. think a lot of people worry (Reading is Fundamen- is particularly excited to Hopefully, we can re- be enrolled in their ninth about it,” says Davenport. tal) and vice president of run for next year’s student ally work to support Red semester of high school Spiritline Tryouts “It is a fourth hour, so you Student Council, and it’s body president. Mountain and get sponsors (no super-seniors). have to worry about your really become a day- “Ever since I was and do things like that to The tryout clinic for Red “We have [Student schedule. We have so to-day part of my life,” little, I wanted to do it,” keep our activities and our Mountain’s Spiritline will Council elections] every be March 23 to 26 in the many kids that are in sports says Kohles. “It’s really says Bramhall. “Student programs to the level that year, and so the students in small gym from 4 to 6 p.m. and NHS (National Honor rewarding. The people you Council changes every they are funded now. I Student Council will work Final tryouts will be March Society) and just a ton of meet and the experiences year. Last year was more think Student Council will to promote the elections,” 27 from 6 to 8 p.m. For other stuff on campus. You you have can’t be repli- of a fun year, and this year have to step up and help says Ms. Gates. “Anyone more information see Mrs. really make of it what you cated in any other way. has been more of a getting out with that.” who’s already involved or Bonewell in room 267. want. You put into it what It’s truly a rewarding and stuff done year. I’d like to Winning an officer would like to be involved find some sort of a balance position in Student Council at any grade is eligible to St. Patrick’s because Student Council includes a variety of new run for any position except Parade and Irish sometimes gets kind of responsibilities. for student body president. a bad reputation for not “Typically [Student Faire To run for student body doing anything. I’d like Council] will have about president, you have to have Be sure to check out the to see that change with five or six summer meet- St. Patrick’s Parade and a year of experience al- supporting other clubs. I’d ings, and they’ll need to Irish Faire on March 13 to ready in Student Council.” like to have a representa- attend at least one,” says 15 at Margaret T. Hance Students running for tive system where we go Ms. Gates. “They have Park in Phoenix. If you are office will have one week interested in volunteer- to other clubs and see what to attend a certain number prior to voting and a limit ing for this event, see Ms. they’re doing, so we can of service projects for the of $50 to spend on supplies Hombach in room 265. incorporate them more in year. We host at least one to campaign. That way no the stuff we do.” every month, and there are one student has an unfair Robotics Team Bramhall has a lot of more that they can find on advantage over another in new ideas she plans to their own to count for that Competition the election. focus on next year if she requirement. They have to This year Student On March 20 and 21, Red wins the position. attend a certain number of Council has hosted two Mountain’s Engineering “I’d like to have a better athletic or other activities Club and Robotics Team blood drives, planned the recycling program,” says like concerts, etc.” will compete against 44 Homecoming dance, and Bramhall. “We have little Candidate speeches will other high school teams’ worked to promote more bins in each classroom. air during third hour on robots in the annual FIRST unity between sophomore, Robotics Competition. Some classes don’t even April 21. Voting will take junior, and senior classes. The competition will be at do it, and it’s a big issue place that same day. “We have a really small Arizona Veterans Memo- in our world. We need If you have any ques- group this year, and we’re rial Coliseum in Phoenix. to start being more earth tions regarding the election all really good friends,” This is the Engineering conscious.” or joining Student Council, Club’s second year in the says Kohles. “We work PHOTO COURTESY OF YEARBOOK Next year’s Student please see Ms. Gates in competition. really well together.” Council will have many of room 237. As it worked out, Junior Hillary Zapata climbed on a ladder to hang banner decora- tions for the Homecoming Dance. new issues to address. March 2009 Ne w s 3 Model United Nations Takes on world issues, one resolution at a time about the issues, which we but didn’t quite make it.” Finally, as committees, this year. For students who With the potential for are also given. Then in the The research required students prepare for Con- are interested in joining a large amount of new beginning of February, we for being able to intelli- ference. This is probably for next year, they must be people to be first year go to Conference where we gently participate in Model the most difficult, yet most willing to work in teams individuals in Model UN, will debate these topics in UN can be daunting but fun, part of being in the and be ready for intense how do people feel about committees and try to sway can also be very rewarding. club. research. next year’s chances for the other countries to our own “Doing Model UN, “Preparing for Confer- “You don’t absolutely team? positions and attempt to I’ve learned a lot,” said ence is probably the hard- have to be part of AP “I think next year we By William Sowards get our way.” junior Shaylynn Veeder. “I est part. You need to know European History or AP will do much better,” said Staff Writer This year at Confer- had Ireland and learned a what your country believes Comparative Government Veeder. “We have many ence, Red Mountain’s lot about it like that it’s a in and how they would and Politics to be part people returning and will “I would like to rise un- Model UN did well achiev- very sociable country with act at a real session of the of Model UN,” said Mr. probably have some new der P-23 for the purpose of ing second as a team and very few enemies as well United Nations,” said se- Brimhall. “In fact, next people that will be very writing an article on Model winning many individual as learning much about nior Tenneille Choi. “Be- year I’m no longer making into the club. I know United Nations.” awards. how to carry out academic sides that, you also need to it a requirement for these that for me it will be a lot “That is in order.” “This year we did research, which has helped understand the procedures two classes, and I’m open- easier now that I know Welcome to parliamen- very well. Last year we me in many of my other and process that happens at ing up the club to people what is going on, and do- tary procedure, one of the were third place, and this classes.” Conference. For example, that aren’t in these classes. ing better should be easier. mainstays of Model United year we were second, so After collecting re- we have to speak in the But, students have to be Getting first at Conference Nations, a club where indi- I’m pretty pleased,” said search about one’s country, third-person about our willing to work together is definitely possible.” viduals represent countries Mr. Brimhall, sponsor of he or she then must write country, so you can only in teams, do research, and For more information in a mock version of the Model UN. “Considering a policy statement about use ‘I’ or the royal ‘we’ or want to know more about about Model United Na- United Nations. that we had 30 delegates what their country believes your country’s name. We the world and care about tions, see Mr. Brimhall in “Model United Nations and other schools only about the issue. also try to emulate as best other countries viewpoints P607 or visit the club’s site is a simulation club where had 10 that means all of “Policy statements say we can what a real session as well as the importance at www2.mpsaz.org/rmhs/ students act like mem- our delegation did really what previous action have would be like. We have of global issues.” organizations/modelun/. ber states of the United well. We did have fewer been taken by your own to wear business attire as Nations in a conference,” individual awards this year assigned nation and the would be worn to the real said senior and Secretary- compared to last year with United Nations in solving United Nations as well General of Red Mountain’s Julia Leveille, Brianna the issue, which you are as follow parliamentary Model UN Ethan Sheffield. Pantilione, Cory Hernan- assigned, as well as what procedure. We’re to do “In Model UN, we take on dez, Melisa Frost, Ashleen your country’s current pretty much anything you the position of a country, Piercy and Afton Knight stance on the issue is,” have to rise under a rule. which we are given at receiving “Distinguished said Sheffield. “A lot of An example of this would the beginning of the year. Delegate” award for being our research is devoted be if you wanted to ask a We then have to dig deep in the top 15 percent indi- to this, especially since a question to a speaker, you into this country’s history, vidually and Cory Hernan- large portion of our score would need to rise under culture, and politics to first dez earning best diplomat at Conference is decided a P-25 Point of Inquiry learn about the country in his committee, but this by these when we submit instead of simply raising and second to formulate an just means that probably them to the judges a few your hand and asking.” PHOTO COURTESY OF MODEL UN intelligent opinion on how a lot of people were really weeks before Conference Now that Conference is Senior Ethan Sheffield gives a short speech to the Security that country would feel close to getting an award actually takes place.” over, so is Model UN for Council at Conference. Rockin’ Hawkins Spotlights Red Mountain musical artists playlist.” hip-hop stuff with auto- sets ranging from three to “We had a meeting ev- (12) wore his HIM (His Evans, even though tuned voices,” said Evans. four songs. ery Thursday,” said junior Infernal Majesty) shirt. not officially competing “Making myself vulnerable “We had a rough begin- Cory Hernandez, a junior From what I saw, a lot of in Battle of the Bands, by getting out there and ning, but towards the end, chair of NHS. “After we people dressed to theme.” performed some of his own dancing causes them to let we really got the crowd had decided on a theme, As 10 p.m. inched music that night. their guard down and ‘get into it, and we had a blast,” we made sure to contact closer, students formed “I really wanted to down.’” said senior Jacob Heidrick, Duke Photography to set a conga line around the loosen the kids up to get All bands that competed guitarist for the band Death up pictures at the dance. I tennis court with DJ Evans By Abagail Davis them dancing by making in Battle of the Bands By Capo. “We usually made the preliminary fliers leading the way. Editor music that I think they’d performed periodically write our own music, but to put up on the walls, so “It was nice to have a like, you know, the top 40 throughout the night with for the set list we played people knew the date and few hours to forget about Red Mountain’s Nation- that night, we played one knew what was going on.” homework and school and al Honor Society (NHS) cover, ‘I’m Yours’ by The theme for the Sadie just focus on having fun,” lit up the tennis court for Jason Mraz.” Hawkins Dance this year said NHS president, senior the annual Sadie Hawkins Most of the bands filled was “Rockin’ Hawkins,” Lindsay Kelly. “I think Dance Feb. 27. From 7 their set with a majority of and many, especially the combination of a dance p.m. till 10 p.m., all who original music, while one members of NHS, dressed with a battle of the bands attended could entertain decided to mostly cover the part. was a sort of revolution themselves with music songs by other well known “Students were sup- in Red Mountain dances from the disk jockey, bands. A trio of two posed to dress in their with its originality. It was senior Morgan Evans, in acoustic guitarists, Taylor favorite band t-shirt or amazing to see some of my addition to four bands who Carpenter (10) and Saydi anything related to rock good friends have so much competed in the Battle of Driggers (10) and bongo and roll,” said Hernandez. fun on the stage as well as the Bands. player Ricardo Villa (10) “I wore my Linkin Park the dance floor.” “NHS sent me a list covered “Let It Rock” by shirt and Trevor Johnson of some of the songs that Kevin Rudolf, “I Will Fol- they wanted to hear, which low You Into The Dark” by was mostly hip-hop,” said Death Cab for Cutie, and Evans. “So, after doing “Smells Like Teen Spirit” that, I went and found by Nirvana in addition to some underground dance an original song written by music from different places Driggers. around the world. Some NHS planned and of it was German, French, prepared for the Sadie’s and Norwegian. I wanted PHOTO BY ABAGAIL DAVIS Dance far in advance, to incorporate some music Sophomores Ricardo Villa and Taylor Carpenter showing off their starting in the first week of other than hip-hop into the talents at the Sadie Hawkins Dance. January. March 2009 4 Ne w s District Computers The Trevor Project Making life easier for StRUT Premiering soon... StRUT computers, and to access anywhere.” a Trevor helpline for teens and community,” said they will be the first to The disadvantages are who are feeling outcast Hernandez. “There are be replaced, followed by miniscule and can easily because of their sexuality. other people out there that student computers, such as be fixed by the district I.T. The film’s giving a posi- maybe never really real- in newspaper,” said Red department. tive message that you’re ized what they were going Mountain Principal Dr. “Coach Krieg needs a not alone and that suicide through, and this could Slemmer. DVD-RW in his computer is not the answer.” help them.” There will be many to do softball editing, and GSA will show the Because it deals with By Christopher Wiggins advantages for this transi- he might not get one,” said By Valerie Nunez video at lunch in the audi- a struggle that many Staff Writer tion that will help everyone Ms. Hain. Editor-in-Chief torium. While watching lesbian, gay, bisexual, or here at Red Mountain and “If we don’t get as the film is not mandatory, transgender (LGBT) teens Throughout the years, the district information many [computers] as we For years, homosexual GSA members hope for a may face on a daily basis, you may have seen technology (I.T.) depart- had before would be the young adults have strug- large turnout. GSA members hope that students walk into your ment. only disadvantage I can gled with their sexuality “I don’t think we’re students watching the film classroom with a computer “Teachers won’t have think of,” said Dr. Slem- and being accepted by their going to be able to show will come with an open or come in to confiscate a to rely on StRUT students mer. peers and family. Some, it during homeroom like mind and leave feeling sick computer. These loyal and can call the district Now that StRUT will like a young teen named I had previously wanted. more tolerant towards the kids at Students Recycling computer help line,” said not have to deal with fixing Trevor, saw suicide as the We decided that we’re LGBT community. Used Technology (StRUT) Ms. Hain, the Red Moun- and building computers only answer, and in 1998, going to offer free admis- “It could give students work day in and day out tain StRUT teacher for the whole campus, they a short film, Trevor, was sion to the showing of a more realistic view fixing computers that break “One advantage is that will have more time to made about Trevor’s strug- the Trevor Project in the because they can kind of around campus. However, the district is giving us all focus on other things. gle with his peers and his auditorium at lunch,” said see that homosexuals are the district decided it’s brand new computers,” “There are a lot of numerous attempts to take senior Abagail Davis, people. They also have their turn to take over, so said Dr. Slemmer. “The teachers on campus that his own life. In response, GSA’s president. “We problems, and the negative they are replacing ev- best advantage is the new aren’t very computer liter- The Trevor Project, a non- might have to require per- views that students have ery StRUT computer on software, Active District, ate, and we [StRUT] will profit organization aimed mission slips for it because can really impact their campus with district-issued which will be a ‘locker’ for be able to teach them more at helping homosexual of the mature content. If lives,” said Hernandez. computers hopefully by students to keep their docu- about the software based teens and suicide preven- it so happens that we have “We see that with Trevor, Spring Break. ments that they will be able aspect of computers,” said tion, was created. Red to require permission slips, whose parents and friends “Some teachers have Ms. Hain. Mountain’s Gay-Straight they can be picked up in stopped talking to him. “StRUT was not de- Alliance (GSA) Club will the bookstore. They can They think he’s an outcast; signed to provide comput- show the movie later this be signed by parents or if they think he’s weird. They ers to the school, it was month after Spring Break. you’re 18 you can sign it try to change him instead designed to get donated “The Trevor Project is yourself and come back of just accepting him for computers, fix them up, a short film that’s about and exchange it for one who he is. Hopefully, after and then donate them back 15-16 minutes long about admission ticket.” seeing this video, students to the community,” said a young boy named Trevor After watching the will be able to recognize Dr. Slemmer. who’s thirteen years old. movie, GSA members that there are other opin- If you are holding on He’s going through a rough decided to share their ions in the world by other to that StRUT computer time because he’s not be- experience with the rest of people and to learn to, that you’ve had so many ing accepted by people, in- Red Mountain. at the very least, tolerate memories with, say your cluding his family because “I thought that it was a them if not accept them.” goodbyes and say hello to he’s a homosexual, so he really inspirational movie, For more information the brand new district com- attempts to kill himself and everybody should on GSA and the Trevor puters. a few times,” said junior view it because it opens Project, visit room 225 on PHOTO BY CHRISTOPHER WIGGINS Cory Hernandez, vice- your eyes to what’s going Tues. at lunch. The district will soon replace the StRUT computers that appear in president of GSA. “From on at not only school, but many classrooms around Red Mountain. this movie, there spawned in your neighborhood Performing arts Regionals “You try out, then they Ban. take the top scores and “[Students who do place you in the group you regionals] become bet- belong to,” said senior ter musicians and make oboist Jenna Goodrum. lifelong memories,” said Sponsored by the choir teacher Mr. John- Arizona Music Educa- ston. “You are getting tors Association, students together with the best kids By Brianna Pantilione spend a weekend practic- from other high schools, Staff Writer ing and performing with and you get to take it to a Many students at Red other talented musicians different level than you do Mountain devote hours to from the area. in school programs. The their hobbies. Perform- “You spend two days focus, the energy, and the ing arts is among the most rehearsing music. At passion is one step higher, competitive and time- the conclusion, there is a and it’s something you can consuming. The best of performance of all three take with you to college.” the best are encouraged to groups,” said Ban. Students notice the reward their hard work by Students experience a different atmosphere and auditioning for regional lot and bring what they enjoy the event. band, orchestra and choir. learn to benefit Red Moun- “I love playing with “Regionals consist of tain’s performing arts. symphonies because I an Honor Choir, an Honor “It’s a place for talented usually don’t get to,” said Orchestra and an Honor musicians to gather and Goodrum. Band,” said senior cellist play very challenging All the teachers are and vice-president of or- music,” said sophomore proud of their students who chestra Ryan Ban. “People violinist Stephanie Kha. “I took the time and energy from schools in the repre- gained experience playing to practice for the audi- sented area can audition to with a very good orches- tion and made it into their be a part of the group.” tra.” ensembles. The best scorers from While it is tough, it is “It is awesome, and each school get to par- still enjoyable. it is a great experience. ticipate in their respective “It’s a lot of fun. It’s Congratulations to them, ensembles on behalf of a step up from school they deserve it,” said Mr. their schools. orchestra and the music is Johnston. more challenging,” said Opinion March 2009 5 The Roar AdviceGuy strikes again! Ninja attacks employed in epic infiltration

Dear AdviceGuy, well-received. After two crazy people fall down, scream. Scream really, really So I think “New Global Citizens” started chasing me threatening to get me loud. That way, if someone sees you, might be a pyramid scheme. How can I suspended, I had no choice but to simply they’ll ignore you and walk past. know for sure? run for my life. After I made safe ground, Oh, wait. That’s not good. Sincerely, I turned to my observations: Okay, let’s try this. You could invest Burn-After-Reading 1.) Summar did not have large amounts in a Life Alert system. That way, if you of money sticking out of her pockets. fall down, you could squeeze that button Dear Burn-After-Reading, 2.) NGC never once got off of the sub- and have a fire truck run to your rescue! Are you suggesting that Summar Klug ject of helping Serbian orphans. It’s flawless. Well, that’s assuming that operates like Bernie Madoff? Are you 3.) They had no high tech machinery to you can squeeze the button. I mean, think saying that Red Mountain High School hack mainframes to transfer money over about it, those buttons don’t look too sen- prepares for students to create ponzi- into a Swiss bank account. sitive. I suppose my best idea would be schemes, selling delicious treats for the to get out of Red Mountain, since you’re sake of delicious money? Are you saying, That’s all I’ve got. I think it’s safe to probably over the age of 70, and kids good sir or ma’am, that New Global Citi- assume that NGC isn’t evil and won’t be nowadays walk with the speed and force zens will swindle all of Red Mountain out stealing your money. of a minivan. If you’re not old, you prob- of our money? ably took too many somas, so you should I like your thinking. Help, Newslab! I’ve fallen and I probably get off the drugs. So I began to investigate into mat- can’t get up! Good luck! ters. Using my amazingly awesome ninja Sincerely, skills, I hacked, slashed, and shimmied Fallen-Over myself into a NGC meeting. From there, I Want some advice? Have a question? grilled their club president (Summar) into Dear Fallen-Over, Just send me a note in the Newslab Advice releasing secrets vital to their diabolical Oh dear lord! Can you wiggle your and Suggestion Box, AKA “Brutus,” in the plan. toes? Where did you fall? There’s only east entrance of the school library! Unfortunately, my efforts were not one good solution to this problem. If you PHOTO BY BRIANNA PANTILONE AdviceGuy pummeling student problems. Spring is here, temperatures are rising... Be wary of dress code

Senior Ashleigh Swann says that “During the beginning of the school Senior Jacqueline Sandberg claims Senior Jacob Olmos doesn’t let she’ll “probably not” let the dress code year, I wore really short shorts, was that she doesn’t know Red Mountain’s dress code affect how he shops for affect her personal dress standards. dress coded three times and got dress code. clothes, but has been dress coded. As far as the actual dress code goes, suspended,” says sophomore Kayla “It won’t effect the way I shop,” says “I’m pretty down with Red Moun- “I don’t think it’s that bad, really,” says MacPhee. “It’s not like guys find itthat Sandberg. “They can say I can’t wear tain’s dress code,” says Olmos. “I don’t Swan. “ There are only a few teachers attractive. During spring I’m probably my chains, but I still wear them.” think it’s too strict or anything like that crack down on it.” going to wear shorts regardless.” that. I think it’s pretty fair.”

Senior Charles Houston Barnett- Senior Tatiana Street has been dress Senior Michael Bryce likes some Junior Kaitlyn Brennen is in favor of Gearhart isn’t fazed by Red Mountain’s coded in the past. aspects of Red Mountain’s dress code. Red Mountain’s current dress code. dress standards. “A teacher took me out of class in “I think it’s good to keep those “I keep school in mind when I’m “Cracking down on dress at school the middle of a test just to tell me that few people in line, because how else shopping because I’m not trying to is definitely not going to translate into I’m dress code,” says Street. “Now that would we if we don’t have a rule for get dress coded,” says Brennen. “I the real world,” says Barnett-Gearhart. it’s spring time, I don’t know if I’ll be it?” says Bryce. “But do I think the think it’s only fair. I don’t think kids “We can wear whatever we want out- able to wear my shorts because they spaghetti strap thing is a little bit need to come to school looking like side of school save being naked. No dress code me all the time. I’ll defi- much. As long as they’re not too ris- they’re on Van Buren. You come here cop is going to give you a citation for nitely have to be aware of that.” que, I think the index card rule is just to learn, not to impress others.” wearing a shirt that makes you look ridiculous.” good.” March 2009 6 Opinion Worried about your scholarship? The top 5 Budget cuts plague Arizona Oscar moments By: Morgan Evans Staff Writer state mandate that can college. the amount of money For me, the Academy Awards serve as some type AIMS scholarship no longer be sustained that must be dropped of bizarre holiday. Like most “normal” people gage students aren’t the only because of major cuts from Arizona’s educa- what season they’re in based on how far away say, ones affected, either. in university funding by tion budget is nothing Christmas or their birthday is, I measure my year in “For the 2008-2009 the state Legislature” by short of appalling. Edu- terms of where I am in relation to Oscar season. Al- school year, Mesa Public ASU’s executive direc- cation is the future of though after this year, I am rapidly losing some faith Schools has to cut $9.6 tor of student financial our society, and without in my favorite award show. All across the nation, million. Now the state assistance, Craig Fen- a good education, we people where having Oscar parties packed to the By Valerie Nunez legislators are looking nell. have nothing. brim with hors d'oeuvres, big screen televisions, and Editor-in-Chief to cut $3.5 billion from “I’m hearing the While I understand collective groans at the announcement that Slumdog education,” said Dr. rumor, but I haven’t that we are in a reces- Millionaire won Best Picture. With that, I give you On Friday, Jan. 30, Slemmer. “In Arizona, seen anything official sion and that families, my “Top Five Best Oscar Moments.” 2009, Arizona state come down to us, that 42 percent of the state businesses, budgets, and legislators voted away a they’re taking that budget is spent on public everything else are going good portion of the edu- scholarship away to education K-12. Seven- through rough financial Ben Stiller’s impression cation budget of K-12 save money,” said Red teen percent of that 42 times, I do not under- 5. students throughout our Mountain Principal Dr. percent goes directly to stand how cutting money Whether it be excessive drug use, a mental break- state. Governor Jan Slemmer. “Tom Horne, Mesa Public Schools. from education is going down, or some kind of existential crisis, Joaquin Brewer did not hesitate the superintendent, says Anything that happens to help anyone in the Phoenix has become the punch line of the entire film to ratify the budget for that it isn’t going away, at the state level is going long run. industry. Cashing in on his awkward appearance on the state, which includes but I don’t know where to seriously impact Mesa “I’ve been in educa- David Letterman’s Late Show, Ben Stiller garnered cutting over $350 mil- it sits.” Public Schools, which tion 35 years and my some laughs by sporting a fake beard and sticking lion from public educa- Since ninth grade, I is seriously going to im- entire career has always gum to the bottom of the podium. tion. Arizona politicians have been hearing about pact the way we deliver seemed to be a struggle claim that these budget the AIMS scholarship. It education.” of having the necessary cuts are necessary seems almost too easy: There have been money to educate kids. Sean Penn wins for his por- because of overspending exceed on the AIMS many proposals as far What makes the problem 4. on education. However, test, get As and Bs, go to as compensation for the more incredible now is trayal of Harvey Milk Arizona currently ranks college. After taking the major monetary blow how important education last among the other 49 time to retake the AIMS that public education is has become over time,” Sean Penn, without a doubt, gave the most honest states as far as money to exceed and trying taking. Jobs are be- said Dr. Slemmer. “A performance of the year. His unflinching portrayal spent per pupil. my hardest to maintain ing cut, which for Red person that graduated of San Francisco politician, Harvey Milk, surely set Unfortunately, Red my grade point average Mountain includes a from high school in the him apart from the other nominees. Mountain students will (GPA), the idea that I position in the book- 50s and 60s could get a be affected by the mas- may not get the scholar- store, meaning students pretty good job without 3. Kate Winslet finally wins sive budget cuts plagu- ship that has been prom- can expect shorter an extensive education, ing our state. Many ised to me for so long bookstore hours and but then all of a sudden, After a handful of nominations, it was only a short have heard the rumor is almost heartbreaking. longer lines. It has also good paying jobs de- amount of time before Ms. Winslet took home that the AIMS scholar- Other students feel the been suggested that 30 manded higher skills and that Oscar she deserved. Two years ago, Winslet ship has been suspended. same way. percent of teacher pay be higher skills only come appeared on the BBC’s “Extras” show with Ricky The AIMS scholarship “I would be re- cut. Keep in mind that with education. For us Gervais, where she told him she would do a Holo- (officially called the ally disappointed if they Arizona currently ranks to prepare kids for post- caust movie next because, “Nazis equal Oscars” and Regents High Honors decided to eliminate it 35 in the nation for aver- secondary education, it sure enough, they do. Endorsement scholar- because I’ve been work- age teacher salaries, and requires us to have good ship) provides full ing for the last three according to the Arizona programs intact. in-state university tuition years on getting that Education Association, “I’m very much con- 2. Tina Fey and Steve Martin for one year following scholarship,” said junior Arizona educators cur- cerned that kids at Red present best Original and Adapt- high school graduation Lorraine Longhi. “I’m rently earn $6,536 below Mountain, Mesa, and for students who exceed still going to take the the average. beyond are not going to ed Screenplay on all three portions of AIMS again this year to “The specific cuts have the education they the AIMS test and earn exceed all of them just that are going to take need to open up the door Two comedy greats, how could you go wrong? As and Bs throughout as a precaution.” place at Red Mountain of opportunities for them Steve Martin and Tina Fey are like the perfect couple high school. Based on The fact that no haven’t been determined to make a good living. that never was. the university’s criteria, scholarships have of- yet, but that ballpark We’re in a state strug- the scholarship can be ficially been suspended figure of 30 percent has gling to pay the bills renewed for an addi- yet provides little conso- got to be cut somewhere. because of the economy, tional three years. lation. Simply propos- The number of teach- and it’s going to directly For now, the pro- ing to cut that which has ers we have, the class impact social programs posed suspension of the been promised is bad sizes that we have, and like education.” AIMS scholarship is still enough, but with the additional programs However, we must being worked out, and economy as dreary as it that we’ve traditionally not be completely with- Arizona State University is (Arizona is currently supported are certainly out hope. On March 4, (ASU) is the only col- in a recession), this going to be affected,” the Arizona Education lege potentially planning scholarship could easily said Dr. Slemmer. “A Association organized to drop the scholarship. fade to nothing, leaving top priority that will re- a march of thousands The program has been students to scramble for main a priority for us are on the State Capitol to called “an unfunded other means to afford the core subjects—math, show support for public science, social studies, education. Students, and English. We’re go- teachers, and parents

ing to have to keep them in the community can PHOTO COURTESY OF INSTYLE.COM pretty well intact, which make themselves heard means electives may be by visiting websites like affected by a cut. There www.speakupnowaz. Hugh Jackman’s “I’ve never are going to have to be org, which is dedicated 1. some significant changes to informing people seen The Reader” made if the money’s not of the budget cuts and there.” encouraging them to Sure, making fun of Nazi movies is easy game, but In a world where a contact their Legisla- who says it doesn’t yield some hilarious results. college education, let tors with pleas to stop Although this part of Jackman’s song and dance PHOTO BY VALERIE NUNEZ number caused the audience to shout out a few Without sufficient funds for hiring another bookstore worker, alone a high school one, the cuts. Speak up, Red students can expect shorter bookstore hours and longer is absolutely necessary Mountain. “boos,” I’m sure everyone forgave him as he pulled lines. for a successful career, Anne Hathaway on stage. March 2009 Opinion 7 You cannot access the following article The site you requested is blocked “Amazon” and “eBay” fensive to the person to regulate manually. It kids police themselves. an adequate reason for are allowed, with seem- moderating. This person is simply impossible to We’re in high school, viewing the site must ingly no educational would tag the website have a fair and accu- and if you can’t use be given. That way, the value, I can’t help but be under the filter “Nudity,” rate representation of the Internet safely and teachers and students a bit peeved. and the next thing you websites that are deemed efficiently by now, you are forced to regulate But first, please let know, The New York potentially “unsafe for probably don’t have themselves and learn me explain how our Times would be blocked work,” if only one small any business being safe and handy tools for school filters work. The in schools, businesses, group is deciding who here. Same thing on viewing the Internet dur- By Morgan Evans Mesa Public School and countries throughout can view what on the the road, if you can’t ing school. Staff Writer district uses a program the globe. Internet. drive without speeding Finally, might I re- called SmartFilter, which What’s so bad about Second, if a student or running red lights, mind you of our school’s I am not naïve, so I is a product of Secure blocking nudity you may is unintelligent and im- chances are you’re going motto, “to prepare all understand that criticiz- Computing from San ask? Well, the human mature enough to view to get caught eventually students to meet the ing the policies of the Jose, California. Red body is not necessar- offensive material at and have your license challenges of the 21st Mesa Public School Mountain isn’t the only ily pornography. For school, he is probably revoked. century,” which yields District, especially client, however, as they example, The National unintelligent enough to In lieu of such a ty- a very interesting point: because I am a student, target schools, busi- Geographic has plenty get himself caught. rannical filtering policy, the Mesa Public School does little to actually nesses, and citizens in of pictures of the naked Finally, it’s the same might I suggest a “three- district will not be sway the opinions of the countries like Saudi Ara- human body, and for argument people have strike” rule. If you’re there to hold our hands ones in charge down on bia and The United Arab anyone who has taken an against the traffic and caught on Facebook or through the dangers of Main Street. That being Emirates. Let me reiter- Art History class here at speed cameras at stop- MySpace during class, the Internet when we all said, I cannot sit by as ate. Yes, entire coun- school knows naked men lights and on freeways. you get a strike. That graduate. The Internet is our district chooses to tries have their Internet and women are an every- Not only can drivers way, websites that have a great power, and with enact a very hypocriti- filtered, and they use the day occurrence. Smart- obscure their license educational value can be great power, comes great cal, “People’s Republic same exact software as Filtering will block all… plate to avoid a ticket, viewed, and those that responsibilty. of China” style Internet Red Mountain High. “Non-pornographic im- students can use a proxy are not can be argued filtering policy without SmartFilter software ages of the bare human to avoid the filtering. I for. If a teacher catches voicing my opinion. uses a central database body. Classic sculpture think it’s important that a student on “Digg,” Being both a video of 73 categories in order and paintings, artistic and print journalism stu- to decide what should nude photographs, some dent, I use the Internet be seen and what should naturism pictures and on a daily basis to find not. Things that go un- detailed medical illustra- leads to stories and as a der the categories “Nu- tions.” cure to boredom. It is dity,” “Hate-Speech,” That’s right, if you quite often in my “Inter- and “Social Network- want to view Michelan- netscapades” that I come ing,” are obviously not gelo’s “David” at school, across a big red octagon allowed at school. you are simply out of telling me that a website But this is where luck. has been blocked for the problem lies. It is I am advocating that [insert any reason here]. not entirely accurate. the district completely Now, don’t get me Say someone works at abolish the SmartFil- wrong, I understand the SmartFilter and is cruis- tering policy for high fact that some websites ing The New York Times school students, and just have no business be- website when he or she though that sounds crazy ing in a school environ- comes across an article to some, I have three ment. But if informative that is controversial or very good reasons. news-based websites like objectionable to some. First, it lies in the fact PHOTO COURTESY OF MESA PUBLIC SCHOOLS SMARTFILTER “Digg” are blocked un- Maybe it has a photo of that there is really too a scantily-clad woman, much content on the In- As any Red Mountain student may tell you, the filters at school strongly influence the con- der the filter “Pornogra- tent you can view on school’s computers and the Internet. phy,” while websites like or maybe it is just of- ternet for one company 8 March 2009 Focus The Roar Spring is in the air on Red Mountain’s campus... EasterHistory, traditions, and a few misconceptions “Easter” is seemingly un- ity. Eggs were colored to origins of the Easter bunny a different sort of culture to hit up a local conve- known. However, scholars represent the sunlight and and colored eggs. Some unique to Americans. nience store on April 13 believe that the name most flowers of spring. Being say that German settlers Easter this year is on for discounted candy from likely (and not surprising- a common symbol for brought over the tradition April 12, so make sure holiday overstock! ly) came from the name of rebirth, eggs are easily as- of “Oschter Haws,” a bun- the Anglo-Saxon name of a sociated with the celebra- ny, who would visit houses Teutonic goddess of spring tions marking the end of on Easter eve, leaving and fertility, Eastre. This winter (death) and the start colored eggs for children. By Abagail Davis goddess is worshipped to- of spring (rebirth). Mary Magdalene is said to Editor day by modern Neopagans Later, Christians used have carried cooked eggs and Witches during the eggs to symbolize the in a basket to give to the What do bunnies, eggs, celebration of the Spring resurrection of Jesus, other women visiting the and the Christian Messiah Equinox as one of their while rabbits were seen tomb of Jesus, and when have in common? Abso- eight yearly Sabbats. Also as vulnerable creatures she saw Jesus rise from the lutely nothing. Well, at known as the Vernal Equi- similar to lambs. Sacrific- dead, the eggs altered from least to the Christian faith. nox, the Spring Equinox ing these animals and those white to bright red. Among all the holy days this year marks the start of the like, symbolized the Whatever religion you surrounding Easter Sunday of spring on March 20. sacrifices Jesus’ followers subscribe to, Easter marks recognized by Christians Witches and Pagans com- believed he made for them a time of celebration. and Jews, the only real monly partake in a Spring in his crucifixion. Waking up to baskets filled symbolic tradition that Equinox ritual either on the Another interesting with candy and painting could connect to their cel- eve or day of. Easter tradition is baking eggs with kits bought from ebrations is egg decorating. With celebrating the and eating hot cross buns. Walgreens is what most Many false impressions Eastre goddess, a number Christians crossed the top of us are familiar with. about Easter traditions can of different customs and of the cake as a reference Whether you paint and be surprisingly corrected traditions came about, to the cross Jesus was cru- color eggs, hold a festival, with a little bit of research including various symbolic cified on, while those who hunt for candy filled plastic into the customs of other figures. This goddess is honor the fertility goddess eggs, or just sit around religious faiths originat- usually accompanied by a see it as a representation of eating Peeps, it’s safe ing far before the birth of rabbit as a manifestation the moon’s quarters. to say that the traditions “Jesus of Nazareth.” of the God, as the rabbit Of course, there are surrounding Easter have PHOTO BY VALERIE NUNEZ is notorious for its fertil- other rumors as to the melted together to form Junior Tyler Hodgson celebrates Easter by donning bunny ears The origin of the name and dyeing eggs. What are you doing forSpring Break?

During the break I’m getting my I’m going to hang out with my I will probably be working most I’m going to help paint my house, wisdom teeth removed, so I’m go- child, spend some time on Face- of the week, but in my off time, and one of my friends from Maine ing to be in bed all week. book, blogging, and catching up I’ll be hanging out with friends or is coming here, so we will hang -LeAndra Marx , 11 on sleep. playing World of Warcraft. out and have some fun. -Ms. Dilbeck -Ian McHardy, 12 -Shaylynn Veeder, 11

I am going to California for some I’m going to be babysitting and I’ll I’m going to be doing homework I’m going to Washington D.C. beach time. probably go see my grandparents and studying for AP tests and where I will be yelling at the IRS. -September Villaverde, 11 in Sedona as well. finals. -Cody Crance, 10 -Hannah Eaton, 10 -Cory Hernandez, 11 Focus March 2009 9 Spring is in the air on Red Mountain’s campus... Clovers, pinches and green garb St. Patrick’s Day Budget Cuts??? popular through showing 1106 north Central Avenue. New Year on the old date, Press Secretary of the time a sign of Irish nationalism If you are interested in they were deemed “April sarcastically replied that or loyalty to the Roman joining or want more infor- fools.” the Lincoln-Memorial had Catholic faith with using mation, visit Ms. Hombach The aim of April Fool’s also been sold and would a shamrock. The change in room 265, e-mail stpats- Day is to take advantage henceforth be known as the to Ireland’s association [email protected], or of the gullible. Pranks are Lincoln Mercury Memo- with green rather than blue call 480-946-5008. pulled on friends, fam- rial. probably began around the Not everyone this year ily and enemies both in Often though, real news By Brianna Pantilione By Alexander Hardt 1750’s. will be going out to a faire, good humor and for less gets overlooked on this Staff Writer Today, St. though. Senior Staff Writer admirable reasons. It may day. Serious information Patty’s Day is “Irish soldiers Brianna Murphy have evolved into a day can be lost in the midst St. Patrick’s Day is a celebrated by who missed said, “I’m hang- Red Mountain is reeling where little siblings annoy of the jokes. On April 1, centuries old Irish tradition people of all ing out with my after receiving word that you with fake spiders, but 1946, 165 people in Ha- that is held every March backgrounds their sense of grandma, and due to budget cuts, enroll- adults get in on the fun too. waii and Alaska drowned 17 to celebrate the death in the United Irish roots and we’re going to ment will be reduced by A Dutch news network when tsunami warnings of Saint Patrick with a tra- States, Canada, were serving in play card games at least 50 percent. That in 1950 reported on April were taken as a joke. ditional feast of bacon and Australia, and and later plant means that approximately Fool’s day that the Leaning More recently, in 2004, cabbage. On St. Patrick’s even as far as the English mil- flowers in her 1,400 students will be Tower of Pisa had finally Google’s launch of Gmail Day, which falls during the Japan, Singa- itary marched garden.” transferred to surrounding fallen. In 1957, the British was not taken seriously Christian season of Lent, pore, and Rus- through the Megan schools such as Mountain Broadcasting Corporation due to their history of Irish families would tradi- sia. In the U.S., Wheeler, a View and Mesa High. ran a program on Spa- pranks on April Fool’s day. tionally attend church in many adults streets with senior at Red Hopefully, you kept ghetti Trees. The program Another Google related the morning and celebrate like to enjoy a music.” Mountain, plans reading instead of freaking showed Swiss harvesting episode occurred in 2007 in the afternoon. However couple of drinks on having a very out because you are the the pasta from trees and when an employee’s pet the first St. Patty’s Day Pa- and have fun participating exciting St. Patrick’s Day. first victims of this year’s discussing the eradication python escaped in the rade did not take place in in a parade, such as the “I’ll be in Europe for the round of April Fool’s. of the pest, the spaghetti office. An internal e-mail Ireland, but in the United 26th annual St. Patrick’s day so I’m not sure what While the origins of April weevil. was sent out saying that States in New York City Parade and Irish Faire I’ll be doing in France, but Fool’s are uncertain, many In 1996, Taco Bell took "the timing could not be on March 17, 1762. Irish that is taking at the Irish I’ll make sure that I will believe it came about to out a full-page advertise- more awkward" but that soldiers who missed their Cultural Center. This a be wearing green,” said celebrate the changing ment in The New York the snake's escape was in sense of Irish roots and great chance for students to Wheeler. of the seasons. Another Times announcing that fact an actual occurrence were serving in the English gain service learning hours There is definitely theory is that it is connect- they had purchased the and not a prank. military marched through and some free lunch cou- a lot going on that day. ed with the switch from Liberty Bell to "reduce This year pranks will the streets with music. pons. The Irish Faire takes However you celebrate it, the Gregorian calendar to the country's debt" and re- continue both by students Blue, not green, was place on the west side of remember to wear green, the Julian. When people named it the "Taco Liberty and adults. Keep a sharp the color of St. Patrick. It Margaret Hance Park, near be safe, and have fun. forgot about the change Bell." When asked about eye out and don’t become is theorized that it became downtown Phoenix on and tried to celebrate the the sale, White House a victim. And the rest of Red Mountain...

I’m visiting New York University, I’m going to the dunes to ride where I will be attending school quads and have some fun. next year. -Kenneth Fillipone, 10 -Ryan Ban, 12

I’m going to New Orleans to help I’m going to be practicing and Out of 617 surveyed students work on houses for Habitat for playing baseball. Humanity. -Blake Dunham, 12 -Mr. Anderson 10 March 2009 Focus German students What is Journey to Red Mountain Prop 300? exchange students are 16 English. Additionally, person,” said junior Nicole to construct a resort and and 17 years of age. they will be able to choose Moses, who will be stay- convention center on the “They will be intro- some electives. Some ing in Germany next year Mesa Proving Grounds. duced to the families in teachers at Red Mountain when she is a senior. The resort would include a our school, and after three have volunteered to take The German foreign hotel, shopping areas, and weeks they’ll think they two students to join their exchange students will recreational areas. The know everything. They class for the visit. be going on a four day effect of a "No" vote on won’t really know every- “I will compile a sched- trip to Sedona, the Grand this proposition, would By Brittany Stilson thing, they will just know ule based on the teacher’s Canyon, Monument Valley By Morgan Evans essentially terminate the Staff Writer us a little more,” said Herr classes, and from there, and Canyon de Chelly. Staff Writer Gaylord/DMB Develop- Cole, teacher and German I will have the foreign They will also be doing a ment Agreement. For the past 16 years, Club advisor. exchange students pick hike and a cookout. The For the students who There doesn't seem to Red Mountain High School It may be hard for some electives of their choice,” students that are hosting didn't get to vote in the be much (or any) opposi- has had an exchange people to understand the said Herr Cole. will be able to take the exciting November 4 elec- tion to this bill available program in Hamburg, Germans and where they All of the students from foreign exchange students tions, there is still a chance on the Internet, so it is im- Germany. On March 9, come from. This gives Germany will be stay- other places, too. to have your voice heard. portant that the voter make students from Gymnasium people a chance to do just ing with several different “We are probably go- On March 10, residents an informed decision on Ohmoor High are coming that, and the Germans students from Red Moun- ing to the Renaissance all across Mesa will stand how to vote. Although this to visit Mesa, Arizona. might want to learn more tain that have offered to Festival because I don’t up and declare "THIS IS election is probably not They will be here for about about America’s type of take them in. Some of the think they have that kind MESA!" while voting going to be as exciting and three weeks, and students living, too. students that are hosting of thing there, and then go in the special elections controversial as the general from Red Mountain will be “It’s a chance to really have done it in the past, so see some movies and just on whether or not to let election, it is still important attending their school for know the language and it might be easier this year hangout,” said Moses. Proposition 300 pass. to all Mesa residents as it three weeks this summer. the culture by being in the for them. For the students of Red Coming to school in the will directly affect what There will be 17 foreign country,” said Herr Cole. “It was a lot of fun Mountain, this should be morning, it is likely you happens to a location just a exchange students, the The students will be when I did it last year. I a great learning experi- have seen the signs on the few streets down from Red principal, the principal’s placed into classes as a was nervous because I ence because it teaches side of the street declaring Mountain. wife, and a teacher visit- typical student. They will didn’t know what to say, them how to interact with "Yes on 300!" but what To see if you are reg- ing. Most of the foreign be in math, history, and it’s like meeting a new different cultures. It is also does it actually mean? istered to vote, be sure to a cultural change for the Proposition 300, if passed, visit www.ServiceArizona. foreign exchange students. would authorize the city com, and for more infor- “They don’t have all the of Mesa to give economic mation on Prop 300, check drama like we do, and they incentives to DMB and out www.Yeson300.com. understand if you’re hav- Gaylord Entertainment ing a bad day, said Moses. If you’re interested in hosting a foreign exchange student, see Herr Cole in Room 251. Otherwise, keep an eye out for the

foreign exchange students PHOTO COURTESY OF YESON300.COM on campus. Proposition 300, if passed, would authorize the city of Mesa to PHOTO BY ALEXANDER HARDT give economic incentives to DMB and Gaylord Entertainment to Sculptures made out of marzipan are one of many tourist attractions in Germany where some Red construct a resort and convention center on the Mesa Proving Mountain students will be traveling as part of the foreign exchange program. Grounds. Coach Reynolds runs in Boston Marathon Th e Ro a r marathon in at least three him. hours and 10 minutes. “I am hoping to run Coach Reynolds ran the St. again next year, and I The Red Mountain Roar is the monthly publication of Red Mountain High George Marathon in three don’t think I will have any School, 7301 E. Brown Rd., Mesa AZ 85207. For information concerning hours and four minutes in trouble qualifying since advertising, call (480) 472-8228 and leave a message for the newspaper 2007, qualifying him for my goal is faster than the staff. Opinions expressed do not necessarily reflect the view or official the Boston Marathon. required time,” said Coach policies of the school. The Red Mountain Roar encourages letters to the “My goal is to break Reynolds. editor on any topics of interest to the student body. All letters must be three hours, which is Many wouldn’t dare to By Shane Hengesh signed, and may be edited for grammar and space. Visit our website at Staff Writer roughly a 6:50 pace for do a marathon, but Coach each mile over a distance Reynolds stepped up and http://www2.mpsaz.org/rmhs/staff/jxsaquella/class3/. On April 19, 1887, the of 26.2 miles,” said Coach faced the challenge. first Boston Marathon Reynolds. “I run anything “Marathons are gruel- took place, and it has from 35 to 55 miles a week ing, and you have to Editor- been going on every year in order to prepare for the prepare for months and In-Chief: Valerie Nunez since then. The Boston marathon.” months,” said Coach Reyn- Marathon is the world’s Coach Reynolds is olds. “But in the end, you oldest annual marathon extremely dedicated to his can look back and see that Editors: Harrison Gearns and is also one of the most training and many student you ran a marathon and Abagail Davis popular. athletes can see him run- see your personal achieve- This year it will be on ning his laps on the track. ment.” April 20, and our very “My strategy during the There are many benefits Writers: Morgan Evans own Coach Reynolds will race will be consistency, to getting out and running. Alexander Hardt be running in this historic and to tune out all other It does more than just im- race. runners. I look at it as my prove physical health. Shane Hengesh “I have been wanting race and my race alone,” “I enjoy running so Brianna Pantilione to run this race for two said Coach Reynolds. “I much because you have William Sowards years,” said Coach Reyn- will also be running with the freedom of being away olds, who coaches track. a GPS pace watch to keep from everything, and there Brittany Stilson “One reason is because my track of my mile pace.” is always that constant Christopher Wiggins father-in-law challenged Coach Reynolds plans struggle to improve,” said me to qualify for it.” on running the Boston Coach Reynolds. “The In order to compete in Marathon again next world is my treadmill.” Advisor : Mrs. Saquella the Boston Marathon, par- year, and qualifying again ticipants must run another shouldn’t be a problem for Focus March 2009 11 How about a nice, warm Check out the Cup O’ Karma? Phoenix Film Festival beg you to take a load most made me feel like work from students and day screenings begin at off and drink their cof- I was at a bad poetry filmmakers all across 9 a.m. and end at 9 p.m., fee; which, by the way, reading (and trust me, the state. In addition to followed by the awards is fair trade, meaning I’ve been to bad poetry showing films, the festi- ceremony that night. that the farmers who readings). If you can val is also hosting plenty Monday through Thurs- grew the coffee received avoid looking the surly of filmmaker question day, the winning films an adequate amount of ones in the eyes, though, and answer sessions, will be shown every day, money for their labor. you’ll survive. Cup O’ panels, and workshops. starting at 5 p.m. By Harrison Gearns Editor They offer straight-up Karma will also set you By Morgan Evans Previous guests include A full festival pass, drip coffee, frappes back a few bucks, but Staff Writer Brian O’Haloran (Dante which gives you com- and friendly service. that’s the price you pay from “Clerks”) and John plete access to the whole I walk into Cup O’ Their coffee has many to support humane farm- When one thinks of Waters (a notable cult festival, is $120 for Karma coffee house with levels similar to other ing practices in places a notable “film-scene” filmmaker.) students. But if that’s a the expectation that I locations, with the drip such as Asia. Trust me; what generally comes The event begins bit out of your budget, would re-visit some of being dark and robust, you won’t waste your to mind is the glitz and on Thursday with an individual screenings are the old coffee houses but their selection of money. glamour of old Holly- opening night screen- $10 each. For tickets, I’ve been to in east Mesa creamer takes the teeth All-in-all, Cup O’ wood, or Woody Allen’s ing, followed by a huge schedules, and general beforehand. A lot of off of the beast. Qual- Karma will spoil you New York. What most party sponsored by The information, be sure to them tend to look the ity thrives here, and the if you dig the under- people don’t realize, Arizona Republic. On check out phoenixfilm- same, with trendy, post- delicious craftsmanship ground coffee scene. however, is that Ari- Friday, screenings start festival.org modernist art sprawled in their frappes came It’s pricier than boiling zona is also home to a at 9 a.m., and last all As a side note, it is across the walls, drab frighteningly close to my your own beans, but you new and thriving film day long. In addition, any filmmaker’s duty to colors everywhere and favorite coffee shop in will dig the people that industry. the middle school and shamelessly plug his or expensive coffee with at Glendale – which leads work there and enjoy From April 2 - 9, high school filmmaking her film, which is why least two hyphens in the me to believe there’s the aroma of education filmmakers and actors seminars begin. Friday the writer of this article name. I stand now to eat some sort of artisan and cheap cups. Cup O’ across the valley will night also ends with a implores you to attend (or drink) my words. coffee school that I was Karma is located at 1710 convene at the Harkins party, which kicks off the short film, “Breakfast Cup O’ Karma may not aware of that teaches W. Southern Ave, just on Scottsdale 101 for the the weekend festivities. in Bed,” which is play- have some art attached these people to create Southern and in-between ninth annual Phoenix On Saturday, screenings ing as part of the “Ari- to the walls, but the ambrosia out of simple Dobson and Longmore. Film Festival. The festi- start at 9 a.m. and end zona Shorts Program A” colors around the coffee beans, cream and sugar. They accept credit cards val, which features many at 1 a.m., there are also on Friday, Saturday and house are bright and Oh, did I mention that (good ol’ cash is just independent and foreign filmmaker panels, and Sunday. inviting. This place re- the wi-fi runs well and is fine too), and is wheel- films, also showcases yet another party. Sun- minds me of a brownie, free? I should, because chair accessible. They where the crispy edges it does. also host an open mic, are what tastes the best. If I had to talk about which takes place on the Compared to Cup O’ the negatives, it would third Thursday of every Karma, Starbucks is a have absolutely nothing month. Students may poorly-made almond with the shop, but the play music, recite poetry cookie. The atmosphere amount of strange-look- or do some standup. is exactly what you’d ing customers. Coffee Make sure you check it expect – busy, aromatic shops always attract a out and support a local and trendy. The numer- colorful crowd, but the business. PHOTO COURTESY OF PHOENIX FILM FESTIVAL ous seating arrangements From April 2-9, filmmakers and actors across the valley will convene at the Harkins Scotts- people in the store al- dale 101 for the ninth annual Phoenix Film Festival. FFA students Develop careers in agriculture CDEs provide students junior year. “We have to choose to compete in money but most of all year and received a col- an invaluable opportu- identify fish, test water, events for FFA because scholarships. lege book scholarship in nity to work with their build a filtration system, they show interest in the “I joined because it Agriculture Sales. peers and teachers as and know how to fillet events. Students who sounded like a lot of fun. Red Mountain FFA well as community and fish.” have interest in a specific I love animals, and I’m is dedicated to making business leaders. It takes a long career field that falls into going to be starting a to making a positive “I have been compet- time to prepare for any the area of the CDEs ranch. It (CDEs) would difference in the lives ing for two years here competition. Most of usually want to compete help me with that as of students by develop- By Brittany Stilson at Red Mountain,” said the students that com- and learn the skills to well as the money,” said ing their potential for Staff Writer junior Jenna Schulte, pete study at lunch and get them further ahead senior Samantha Flahiff. premier leadership, per- who studies in Pre- after school over in the in their career. Those Flahiff has been compet- sonal growth and career With more than pared Public Speaking, Agriscience and Bio- that do compete can win ing since her sophomore success through agricul- 300 career options Agronomy, and Agricul- technology Building ture education. If you in Agribusiness and ture Science Fair. (700 building) by the would like to join any of AgriScience industries, Some of the FFA basketball courts. They the FFA competitions, opportunities for FFA competitions are For- learn and memorize start by enrolling in one (Forging the Future of estry, Environment, information on plants, of the Agribusiness or Agriculture) students Agribusiness, Sales, and animals, to different Agriscience classes. To abound. The key to Floriculture, Aquacul- kinds of soil. get more information, their future success lies ture, AgriScience Fair, “The only way to win contact Mr. Sorensen, in their ability to be Agriculture Issues, Pub- one of the CDEs is to be Mr. Gless, Mrs. Kupferer prepared for the working lic Speaking, and many 100 percent dedicated,” or any of the students world. Career Develop- more. There are about said Mr. Sorensen, one that participate in the ment Events (CDEs) 37 different competitions of the advisors of the competitions. are competitions that that the students are able Red Mountain FFA. “It’s a lot of fun, allow students to explore to compete in. Once you join any of and it’s a good learning many of these careers, “I compete in Aqua- the Agribusiness or Agri- experience,” said senior ranging from agriculture culture,” said senior science classes, you’re Brandon Walker, presi- sales to environmental PHOTO BY BRITTANY STILSON Ryan Gallagher, who has automatically in the FFA From left to right: Laura Frear (11), Julio Rivera (12), and dent of FFA. and natural resources to been competing since his club. Some students Victoria Payne (10) fillet fish for Aquaculture. floriculture and forestry. 12 March 2009 A&E The Roar Askyla Young talent and great music juniors Ryan Garrison as the music and what we larly for their upcoming Askyla has already things from the band in guitarist, Jake McDan- were doing, and eventu- performances. performed in a few months to come. iel on drums, Wesley ally we found them,” “We practice every shows as of this writing, “You should check us Barrigan on bass guitar, said Garrison. Saturday, either at [the including one on Feb. 27 out,” said Bryant. senior Tanner Bryant on This band means drummer]’s house or at UB’s Restaurant and For more information rhythm guitar and non- business. Listening to at Musician’s Choice Bar, in Mesa on Broad- on Askyla, you can visit Red Mountain graduate their sound, one can in Tempe,” said Bar- way and Dobson. Very their MySpace at http:// Avaidan Wolf. Lead tell a lot of work went rigan. “We’re working rarely do bands show up www.myspace.com/ By Harrison Gearns Editor guitarist Ryan Garrison into their music. Their to improve for our next on the scene this early, askyla. says, there’s only room band is clearly influ- shows.” so one can expect great enced by groups such Red Mountain High for improvement. as Blessthefall or The School has a reputation “We’re pretty serious Cover Up, emulating of being one of the most now, and it can only get the culture and the style well-rounded schools more serious. Originally while owning their own in the valley, exceed- I was looking for people sound. With well-de- ing in sports, academia to be fully dedicated to veloped guitar and drum and performing arts. As the band, and we found lines matched with lead of Jan. 2008, however, the final lineup and took vocalist Wolf’s powerful we can put local bands off,” said Garrison. voice, it’s almost like on the top of that list Askyla started as a they were born to be in with the emergence of pet project of Garrison The Clubhouse. When Askyla, one of the year’s and McDaniel in April immersed into their most promising bands. of 2008 under the name shows, however, one Askyla, a post- “Time Stands Still,” can tell they are still a modern hardcore band according to McDan- newly-developing band. accentuated by throat- iel. After that band fell Their stage performance curdling screams and apart, they re-incarnated left me hungrier for a guitar shreds, first with a full lineup of kids show than when I first appeared on the Red with their new name. showed up to Save-A- Mountain scene during “After some adjust- Life. The band admits the Save-A-Life celebra- ment, we became As- they need to work on PHOTO BY VALERIE RAMIREZ tion, where they gave kyla. We were looking their stage presence, and Askyla was one of the many bands to play at this year’s Save-A-Life Celebration. Because a decent performance. for kids who were really serious and really loved has been preparing regu- four out of five members are juniors on campus, the band has a growing fanbase at Red The lineup consists of Mountain. Pirates of Penzance Red Mountain’s spring musical promises brilliance

about 70 involved on everyone has their favor- love for the music and the theatre program, school.” stage. Then, we add ite parts or production. just the energy that they musical theatre is a re- The thought of backstage and the or- “My favorite part is bring on stage, how they warding and exhilarating performing in front of chestra, and there will be the different dances we let lose and how they experience. hundreds of people may over 100 kids,” said Ms. get to learn and seeing share their talents.” “I want the students dissuade many from Griffin. how everything works Working on a produc- to be introduced to the trying out for school Taking the lead role is together,” said sopho- tion at Red Mountain magic of what musi- plays, but Ms. Griffin a novice to theatre, and more Chelsea Crews. is hard work and very cal theatre is,” said Mr. encourages all students By Brianna Pantilione everyone is impressed. The directors enjoy involved. Griffin. “Skiing, scuba who have an interest in Staff Writer “[Junior] Joshua Cox every aspect of the pro- “It’s much bigger diving, all those things theatre go for it. came into the theatre duction and the students. than anything I’ve done we do for a rush, musi- “We’re such a fam- Quickly approach- program this year with “My favorite part before, and it’s much cal theatre absolutely ily,” said Ms. Griffin. ing is Red Mountain’s not a stitch of theatre about directing musicals harder,” said Ms. Grif- tops it all. I would love “We’re all silly, and we annual spring musical, experience. Then a are the personalities that fin. “It’s a full length everybody to get that are all nervous, even the Gilbert and Sullivan’s week before ‘Much Ado come out of the kids that musical, and there are experience, and not just great ones. It’s just a “Pirates of Penzance.” [About Nothing],’ he are in the show,” said so many kids involved. musical theatre but high matter of coming in, and The actors are working jumped in to a Shake- Mr. Johnston. “Their Plus, it’s all after school musical theatre. we’ll embrace you with hard preparing for the speare role and learned absolute passion, their school.” I had the most fun in the- open arms.” show. it all,” said Ms. Griffin. love for each other, their For the students in atre when I was in high Everyone involved “Rehearsals have “Then, he auditioned for is looking forward to been going smoothly, this show and landed showing the production they keep getting better the lead part, a singing off to the school. as we get closer,” said part; he has never sung “Everyone should junior Joshua Cox. before. He came in on come see the show,” said Students have even the first day and had the junior Fidelis Velasquez. given up their weekends whole show memorized; “It’s going to be amaz- and much of their days it’s an amazing thing.” ing.” after school to ensure This is the first time The shows are run- excellence. Ms. Griffin and Mr. ning March 31 through “I like to get every- Johnston have collabo- April 4. March 31 and thing just right. With rated on a performance. April 1, the show is at that many kids, I always “It’s awesome work- 4:30 p.m., April 2 and 3 want more time,” said ing with Mr. Johnston,” at 7 p.m. and April 4 at 2 Ms. Griffin. said Ms. Griffin. “He’s p.m. and 7 p.m. Tick- The production in- a brilliant vocalist, and ets cost $5 for students volves a large portion of I’m learning a lot from and $8 for adults and the student body includ- him.” can be purchased in the ing actors, musicians, PHOTO BY BRIANNA PANTILIONE There are many bookstore. and “techies.” The cast of Pirates of Penzance practices after school in preparation for the show’s opening aspects to the show, and “Total, there are on March 31. A&E March 2009 13 Concert Calendar Venue Performing Artist(s) Date Time Ticket Price The Phix As Tall As Lions March 15 7 p.m. $12 presale, w/ We Are Dios $12 @ door Rialto Theatre Bad Religion March 16 7 p.m. $26 presale, w/ Bricktop $26 @ door Tempe Beach Park St. Patricks Day Celebration 2009 March 17 5 p.m. $35 presale, w/ Slightly Stoopid, Bad Religion, The Used $40 @ door Marquee Theatre Lydia March 21 7 p.m. $13 presale, w/ Black Gold, Joshua James $15 @ door Marquee Theatre Rockstar Energy presents The AP Tour March 24 5:30 p.m. $15 presale, w/ The Maine, Family Force 5, 3OH!3, Hit $15 @ door The Lights, A Rocket To The Moon The Rock The Used March 24 7 p.m. $6 presale, w/ special guests $6 @ door Marquee Theatre New Found Glory March 25 6 p.m. $18.50 presale, w/ Bayside, Set Your Goals, Verse $22 @ door The Clubhouse Alesana March 26 7 p.m. $12 presale, w/ Drop Dead Gorgeous, Fear Before, I Set $14 @ door My Friends On Fire, Fall From Grace Jobing.com Arena Disturbed March 28 5:30 p.m. $45 presale, w/ Killswitch Engage, Lacuna Coil, Chimaira $47 @ door Marquee Theatre Forever The Sickest Kids April 1 5:30 p.m. $15 presale, w/ Suburban Legends, Vogue In The Move- $16 @ door ment, Halo Dodge Theatre No Fear Energy Music Tour April 2 6:30 p.m. $38 presale, w/ Lamb Of God, As I Lay Dying, Children Of $42 @ door Bodom, Municipal Waste, God Forbid Mesa Amphitheatre Fall Out Boy April 3 4:30 p.m. $36 presale, w/ Cobra Starship, All Time Low, Metro Sta- $36 @ door tion, Hey Monday Marquee Theatre Silverstein April 5 5:30 p.m. $20 presale, w/ Norma Jean, Bless The Fall, Before Their $22 @ door Eyes Marquee Theatre Conor Oberst & The Mystic Valley Band April 14 7 p.m. $20 presale, w/ Sleepercar $21 @ door Dodge Theatre The Killers April 16 7 p.m. $36.50 presale, $45 @ door Battle of the Bands Concert showcases student bands Allen has been working votes will be dropped each ing is a familiar face to making a comeback for my rap project. It’s a hard to prepare the oppor- week until we have a win- those who attended Sadie another performance. critique on how easy it is tunity for Red Mountain’s ner.” Hawkins. Morgan Evans’ “I’m pretty excited,” to make a lot of the music talent to show off. One person perform- Untitled Rap Project is said Evans. “I’m doing that is popular right now, “I’ve had to get the am- especially with the use of phitheatre approved for use auto-tune.” and get sponsors. The A.V. Evans is confident is his club is sponsoring it this ability to not only perform By Brianna Pantilione year,” said Allen. “I’ve well, but take the competi- Staff Writer needed to find people to tion. help with the sound check “I think I’ll win,” said Are you ready to rock? and work the sound.” Evans. “Although all my The Battle of the Bands is Allen knows there are music is a joke, I still pos- coming to Red Mountain many bands here at Red sess more rhythm, talent every Friday in April at 6 Mountain, and there are and overall awesomeness p.m. in the Amphitheatre. very little opportunities to than all the other partici- Bands compete for the play. She is happy to pro- pants combined. In short, winning spot and play for vide a place for students I rule.” publicity. Junior Malorie to get their band’s name Allen and the bands Allen is in charge of orga- out. Those who attend will involved are all pumped nizing and putting on this be able to vote for their for the show and hope for a year’s show. favorite bands. great turn out. “Battle of the bands is “There will be boxes “Come and have a great kids battling their bands, with the band’s name on time,” says Allen. and then the student’s vote it, when you pay to get in, Tickets cost $3 and for who they want to win you’ll receive a slip, and winners will be announced you put it in your favorite on RMTV. the prize,” said Allen. “It PHOTO BY VALERIE NUNEZ shows off the school’s band’s box,” said Allen. Sarah Sakai (11) points out a poster for the Battle of the Bands, which will be every Friday in April talent.” “The band with the lowest starting at 6 p.m. 14 March 2009 A&E Foile à Deux Audiences adore Lacks pizazz Singin’ in the Rain deliver. The opening song, Last but not least, there added to the excitement of and percussion (Brandon “Disloyal Order of Water is the eccentric partner to singing and dancing. With Miller/Josh Gottry) with- Buffaloes,” sounds too Lockwood, Cosmo Brown, the flurry of actions going out any major flaws. much like the first song of who was played by John on during the play, it is It is easy to recommend Infinity on High. However, Ramsey. hard to take your eyes off this play. The Broadway I did like the song’s line, There is a bit of every- the stage. Palm has been producing “Nobody wants to hear thing: drama, comedy, and The music matched ev- great musicals for a while, you sing about tragedy.” of course, singing. One ery action being performed and it definitely shows. By Valerie Nunez The callousness has a nice of the funniest scenes in starting with the uplifting For more information on Editor-in-Chief By Alexander Hardt touch and goes well with Staff Writer the play (and the movie) is “Fit as a Fiddle” song to “Singing in the Rain,” visit the tune. where Don and his partner the melancholy “All I Do www.broadwaypalmwest. It’s been a few years The album’s lead single, If you like dancing, in business, Cosmo, are is Dream of You.” The com. Showings are from since alternative, punk- “I Don’t Care,” is admit- singing and complete sil- practicing confusing conductor and Keyboarder February 20 to April 11 ish, rockish group Fall tedly catchy, but nothing liness, then the Broadway tongue twisters to prepare (JR Alexander) mixed not and tickets cost $45 to Out Boy emerged into the special. The song starts Palm Dinner Theater has themselves for the new only the computer gener- $51 for adults and $22 for national spotlight with hits out with slightly promising got you covered. “Singing talking films. Here the two ated music, but he man- children. like “Sugar, We’re Go- lyrics, “Say my name and in the Rain” is based on play a cruel joke on the aged to add the trumpet ing Down” and “Dance, his in the same breath. I the 1952 MGM classic that diction teacher by making (Dave Coolidge), trom- Dance,” and the quartet is dare you to say they taste starred Gene Kelly, Donald a song out of the challenge bone (Kathryn Fellows), back again with their fifth the same,” but despite the O’ Connor and Debbie and dancing around him. album, Folie à Deux. potential for a lyrically Reynolds. This is where months of While 2005’s From enjoyable song, the words The main actors and practice have paid off for Under the Cork Tree deteriorate into meaning- actresses in the play the actors as they dance in gained attention with its less declarations of “I’m performed as well as their a whimsy of hilarious mo- unique and fun sound, not a chance, but a heat counterparts in the film. tion and sing a totally off Folie à Deux is a bit wave in your pants.” Michael VanGemert, who the wall song. repetitive, as it sounds too Track three is nothing plays the lead role as Don The performance would much like Fall Out Boy’s but annoying, and track Lockwood, gave a perfor- be nothing without the fourth album, Inifinty on four features another of mance on par with the fa- fantastic coupling of the High (2007). However, the album’s singles (there mous Hollywood actor and stage lighting, where a full an already-heard sound are four, total), “Ameri- singer, Gene Kelly, with immersion into the story doesn’t mean the album is ca’s Suitehearts.” At an snappy lines and perfectly took place. The lights kept absolute trash. Australia concert, Wentz performed dance choreog- up with the fast pace of Fall Out Boy fans have gave some insight into the raphy such as with his bit the play, and they would been awaiting Folie à meaning of this song. It’s of “Singing in the Rain.” quickly change to a spot Deux, which was released about the outgoing presi- Megan Wean, who light, street light, and moon on Dec. 16, 2008, since dential administration, spe- plays an upcoming star and light. The stage production August of 2008, when bass cifically George W. Bush love interest to Lockwood, was as good as in the film guitarist Pete Wentz began and Dick Cheney. Apart was as perky and lovely itself and puts to shame hinting at the album on from its politics, I could as her character needed to other local showings. his personal blog. Various not differentiate between be. She sang wonderfully Staging also was pre- websites and blogs related this song and the others. and danced eloquently into sented well; the props were to the band hinted at the Folie à Deux continues everyone’s heart as shown that of a New York Broad- PHOTO COURTESY OF BROADWAY PALM date Nov. 4, which was the on with a lot of similar in the scene with her danc- way show and changed Played by Michael VanGermert, Don Lockwood’s character is ing out of a cake. within seconds, which dancing and “singin’ in the rain.” January Pride Congratulations to the following students who make Red Mountain proud! Sophomores Juniors Seniors Shelby Adair Matthew Allen Jade Abbott Emily Bulkley Ryan Balmer Natalie Allen Aprilia Dimartino Anna Christensen Jeremy Henderson Ross Dunham Ashley Corkill Bailey Hill Morgan Froehle Danielle Falterman Molly Isaacson Lisa Gray Carissa Ferguson Casey Leone Zackery Green Jane Greer Lian Maher

PHOTO COURTESY OF FUELED BY RAMEN Rachel Grimm Victoria Harris-Burkett Milena Mazurkiewicz Fall Out Boy’s new album features a thought-provoking mix of music. Laura Hinckley Sydney Huffman Jeffrey Miles Zachary Koehnlein Devin Izenberg Cameron Miller day of the United States sounds and lyrics that are Derek Legler Porter James Brittany Morreale presidential election, and (to me) a bit nonsensical Fall Out Boy has gotten and meaningless. Fall Out Dalton Mains Jason Lane William Sowards political in recent months, Boy is a good band that Eryn Neumeyer Mia Leary Matthew Stinson with Wentz holding a did not do themselves jus- rally in support of then- tice with their most recent Cailey Nunez Rachel Marcano Rendan Sullivan Democratic Presidential album. Tori Payne Austin Reinholz Brandon Walker Candidate Barack Obama. While Folie à Deux is On Nov. 4, after much not a complete train wreck, Jull Sawyer Kyle Sanders anticipation, the band I expected a little more Kate Steinken announced the release of from Fall Out Boy. Maybe Folie à Deux. their next album will Mikayla Yeaman With all of the hype feature more original tunes fans supposedly endured and less politics. Kaibab ASU Scholarship Nominee: Rebecca Hernandez, senior for this album, it doesn’t p o r t s S March 2009 The Roar 15 Boys Tennis Boys JV volleyball Serve and smash up a win Serving up victory

only one sure-fire way of team sports.” “Highland and Desert last year,” said Burr. making sure that the team That is part of what Vista are probably our Coach Downey believes can get there…practice. makes tennis at the high biggest rivals,” said junior that testosterone and “For practices we school level different, the Jordan Burr, who was on teamwork help to drive the warm-up, do footwork fact that an individual the JV team last year as team to success. drills to improve agility, sport is being played as a well. “Our strategy for “The boys want to do work on strokes, and play team, requiring a system to winning games is to put up well; they don’t like to some practice matches,” be made to accommodate a strong front and win it lose. Boys have that natu- By Valerie Nunez By William Sowards said Coach Graves. “One both aspects of the game. quickly.” ral ability to be aggressive. Editor-in-Chief Staff Writer of the best ways to train for “When we face other Despite having much For them it’s their inner a sport like tennis is just to schools, we play nine potential and drive to win, drive to just want to get One of the most dif- play it.” matches, six singles games Although it’s the begin- the JV boys still have a lot the job done,” said Coach ficult sports played in high Playing is what many and three doubles,” said ning of the season, junior of improving in the weeks Downey. “It’s also the school, especially for those on the team have done, and Coach Graves. “The team varsity boys volleyball is ahead. way they get along with of us that don’t have the for a long time at that. that wins five matches already off to a great start. “[My goal is] to teach each other, the teamwork whole hand-eye coordina- “I’ve been playing ten- first, wins. Some scores The team consists of about these boys the fundamen- that they have.” tion thing down, is tennis. nis most of my life,” said might be 5-4 or 9-0, but 15 boys and has much tals of volleyball,” said Coach Downey and With six straight region senior Nathan Paulson. “I you need five matches to potential for greatness. Coach Downey. “They Burr both hope that Red titles, Red Mountain’s boys really like it a lot. It’s a win as a team.” “They’re all promis- have no idea of the rules at Mountain students will tennis team is a force to lifetime sport, meaning I Though they lost their ing. They started off on all. Serving, defense posi- attend games and support be reckoned with, and this can still play after I’m done first match, the team is still the same level, but they’re tion, they’re completely the team. year they are hoping to go playing in high school or upbeat about what they improving at their own confused. I’m trying to “It’s all about just for a seventh. college.” can do this season. rates,” said Berta Downey, prepare them for the var- getting out there to invite “We lost our first match, Even if someone has “We want to make the the JV boys and varsity sity level.” everybody to come out. but we will do better played for a long time, that quarter or semi-finals at girls volleyball coach. “I “We need to keep on The fact that they’re boys throughout the rest of the doesn’t mean that a game state, and we can probably really don’t have one working on our rudimen- usually draws in some girls year,” said Coach Graves, will be easy. Tennis is gen- do it,” said senior Joshua player that’s a go-to player. tary skills, stay unified, and who will watch, but it’s head coach of boy’s tennis. erally an individual’s sport, Brown. “Winning state There are two players on have a good attitude,” said up to them how they want “The team’s goal is be in meaning that it’s usually could be hard to do, but I the team that will be train- Burr. “I think we’re going to spread the word,” said the top four of the state and just two people facing off think the team can as long ing with the varsity boys, to do well this year. We Coach Downey. “I think win region. If we do that, with a net in between. as we get a good draw in and they’ll be going back have a good team spirit.” you’ll see a lot of kids at it will be our seventh in a “The hardest part really the tournament.” and forth between the two This is Coach Downey’s the games.” row. Our biggest challeng- is that tennis is an indi- For more information teams, but I don’t really first year working with “Nobody went to our es right now are teams like vidual sport,” said Paulson. about the boys tennis team, have a go-to player yet.” JV boys volleyball at Red games last year,” said Burr. Brophy and Southpoint. “You are alone on the court see Coach Graves in room The boys had their first Mountain, but for Burr, “We want a big crowd this They are good. It’s not go- facing off against some- 302, or visit the team’s game on Tues., March 3, getting on the team was year. Come to our games.” ing to be easy to beat them, one from another school. website at www2.mpsaz. against Desert Vista, one of more difficult than last but if we can, achieving When you are out there, org/rmhs/athletics/boys/ their toughest rivals. Al- year. our goals should be a lot everything really depends tennis. A full schedule of though they lost their first “There was a lot of easier.” on you. There isn’t some- matches is available on game, their second, which competition. We had a lot With hopes of reach- one there to back you up page 16 and on the team’s was against McClintock, of kids come to try out, so ing the finals high, there is like in football or other website. ended in victory. it was a little harder than Boys varsity soccer wrap-up The boys varsity soccer tion all year because we that making it to state team made it to finals and only really had two strong brought more fans to the had the win stolen from forwards and three strong soccer team? them in a well-fought fullbacks. It was the abil- Coach Thames: I would match. The Roar got a ity of those players to stay certainly like to thank chance to talk to Coach healthy and to play that those fans who came out Thames, head coach var- formation that allowed to support the team. There sity soccer to talk about the us to do so well. Our are a lot of things going game. goalkeepers are second to on in students’ lives, so it none in the state, and our was nice to see the support The Roar: What was the defense dominates, but I we had. The players play hardest part about being don't think we played our the game because they in the state tournament? best game of the season. love the game and want to Coach Thames: Losing Austin Fares and Zach represent their school in the last game. We can all Place have scored over 40 soccer. I think they played look back and see things goals between them this their heart out for Red we would do differently, past year, and we didn't get Mountain. but you only get the one them the ball enough. chance. The boys played their hearts out, and I wish The Roar: Do you think The Roar: Anything else there had been something I the team could make it you would like to add? could have done as a coach this far or even win state Coach Thames: I would to help them win it all. next year? like to thank Dr. Slemmer, Coach Thames: We will Mr. Anderson and the en- The Roar: Do you think be graduating some seniors tire Red Mountain staff for there was anything the who are very strong play- their great support of the team could have im- ers, but the team next team and athletic program proved on over the season year can certainly do very and for me personally. I to have won the game? well. They will have a have enjoyed being a part Coach Thames: I’m not core group of seniors and of Red Mountain and a sure we could have done juniors who will be strong. part of the team members much different. We had They will need to find lives for the past four weaknesses and would more young players to step years. You have a great like to have scored more up and support them. school here. Best wishes goals from the midfield. to all. We played a 3-5-2 forma- The Roar: Do you think March 2009 16 Sp o r t s Boys & Girls track This month in This year, it’s personal Sports “We can potentially goals.” Boys Varsity Volleyball Boys JV Volleyball run at the Region meet,” This is Coach Thomas’ said Coach Thomas. “We sixth season coaching 3/10 Brophy A 3/10 Brophy A should also be coming track and the fourth at 3/11 Highland H 3/11 Highland H out with trophies at the Red Mountain. From the H invites.” athlete’s point of view, he 3/12 Canyon Del Oro 3/12 Canyon Del Oro H Jake Lindsay, a junior, is doing a great job. He 3/24 O’Connor H 3/24 O’Connor H also has a positive outlook chose to coach track for 3/26 Perry A 3/26 Perry A By Shane Hengesh on the season. a couple of reasons, one 3/31 Mountain View A 3/31 Mountain View A Staff Writer “Everybody has worked being that he ran track in 4/2 Westwood H 4/2 Westwood H hard to be what they are high school and another is 4/7 Dobson A 4/7 Dobson A On February 9, Red today,” said Lindsay. “I he enjoys seeing kids meet Mountain’s boys track think we will go far in this goals and improving. 4/9 Mesa H 4/9 Mesa H team officially started track season.” “We have enough 4/14 Skyline A 4/14 Skyline A training for another season While the athletes need standout girls to be better 4/16 Mountain View H 4/16 Mountain View H of hard work. to work hard, the coaches than last year’s team,” said With the new season also need to do their part Coach Thomas. “They beginning, there are high and give proper workouts will be scoring points in a Varsity Baseball JV Baseball expectations from the and advice in order for the lot of areas.” coaches. One of those team to succeed. Junior Jennifer Botter, 3/10 Buena Vista H 3/10 Buena Vista A expectations is to be much “Everyday everyone a track runner, has high 3/12 Ironwood H 3/12 Ironwood A better than the previous puts in hard work,” said hopes for this season. 3/13 Cibola A 3/13 Cibola A Red Mountain teams. Coach Jones. “The coach- “I think that the track 3/24 Desert Vista H 3/24 Desert Vista A es can lay the workouts on team will be very suc- “This year’s team has 3/27 Desert Mountain A H the potential of being the the table, but it’s up to the cessful this season,” said 3/27 Desert Mountain best group we have ever guys to get it done.” Botter. “We have a very 3/31 Corona H 3/31 Corona A had as a team,” said Coach “I give the athletes dedicated team and two 4/3 Marcos A 4/3 Marcos H Jones, boys head coach at workouts that keep them extremely awesome and 4/7 Desert Valley A 4/7 Desert Valley H Red Mountain. “We have healthy,” said Coach supportive coaches.” 4/8 Camelback H 4/8 Camelback A Thomas. “I make sure Coach Everman also much better balance this 4/9 Westwood H A year.” they keep up their mo- helps coach track and has 4/9 Westwood Coach Jones has been tivation and help them been coaching since 1960. 4/14 Dobson H 4/14 Dobson A coaching for around 40 improve their positive Although he retired from years. He decided to coach reinforcement.” teaching in 2000, Coach because he ran track and If the track team keeps Everman is still very Varsity Softball JV Softball played football in high working hard, they will enthusiastic about coach- school and college. have the chance to take the ing track. Jim Thorpe, 3/10 Buena Vista H 3/10 Buena Vista H “Our numbers are real region meet from Moun- an Olympic runner who 3/12 Ironwood A 3/12 Ironwood H tain View, which would won gold medals in the good this year in all our 3/13 Cibola H 3/13 Cibola H events,” said Coach Jones. make many people at Red pentathlon and decathlon, “The addition of pole- Mountain happy. The and also played football, 3/24 Desert Vista A 3/24 Desert Vista H vaulting is a really good track team would like to baseball and basketball at 3/27 Desert Mountain H 3/27 Desert Mountain A thing. We have lost some see more Red Mountain professional levels, has had 3/31 Corona A 3/31 Corona H really close track meets students and faculty at a strong influence on his 4/3 Marcos H 4/3 Marcos A their meets. running career. because we didn’t have 4/7 Desert Valley H 4/7 Desert Valley A pole-vaulting.” “Everyone should try “I don’t see any specific Coach Thomas, the to come out and watch a times that anyone has to 4/8 Camelback A 4/8 Camelback H distance coach, has similar meet,” said Coach Thomas. reach,” said Coach Ever- 4/9 Westwood A 4/9 Westwood A views on the this year’s “It’s going to be a great man. “We just need to 4/14 Dobson H 4/14 Dobson H team. season.” focus on improvement.” “We are definitely bet- Alongside the boys, the Although Coach Ever- ter than last year’s team Red Mountain girls track man wants the track team and the year before that, team started official train- to do well, he also believes Boys Varsity Tennis Girls Varsity Tennis who were pretty good,” ing on February 9. They that winning isn’t every- 3/10 Dobson A 3/10 Dobson H are preparing for another thing. said Coach Thomas. “The 3/12 Mountain View H A addition of pole-vaulting tough yet successful sea- “In the end, the type of 3/12 Mountain View will really help.” son this year. person you become is just 3/24 Mesa H 3/24 Mesa A With the addition of “We are going to be as important as winning 3/26 Brophy A 3/26 Xavier H pole-vaulting and a new very competitive this or losing,” said Coach 3/31 Westwood H 3/31 Westwood A balance to the team, the year,” said Coach Thomas, Everman. “We will just be 4/2 Dobson H 4/2 Dobson A the head coach for the girls striving to be the best we coaches have big plans 4/3 City Meet in the accomplishment team. “We are working can.” 4/3 City Meet department this year. hard everyday and setting For the most part, 4/7 Mountain View A 4/7 Mountain View H everyone seems to have a 4/9 Mesa A 4/9 Mesa H very optimistic view on the season. “We will be the best,” said Leah Ruchal, a junior Boys Track Girls Track and track runner. “Our 3/11 Dobson A 3/11 Dobson A team is looking great so A far.” 3/25 Westwood 3/25 Westwood A Some people look at 4/8 Corona H 4/8 Corona H track as not only some- 4/15 Mountain View H 4/15 Mountain View H thing to compete in, but 4/24 Tribune A 4/24 Tribune A something that they just enjoy. “I get to be doing something that I enjoy Correction: and strive to improve at,” It was junior Derek Gilbert, not said Botter. “I get to be Derek Armstrong, who was men- out here with my friends, and the coaches make it an tioned by Coach Thames in Issue 5

PHOTO BY SHANE HENGESH enjoyable atmosphere.” Page 14 of The Roar’s article about Senior Jacob McCollun and junior Erik Lindahl train for track Boys Soccer. meets. PHOTO COURTESY OF YEARBOOK