JOURNALISM
In The Quill I participate as an Advertiser for Ads and communication around Durango CO and as a staff writer. Being involved in jounalism has improved my writing skills and abilities to create a wide variety of writing styles that is displayed to Animas High School students and faculty as well as the Durango community.
FEATURES:
Cross Current Exhibit at Fort Lewis:
Fort Lewis College Art Gallery is currently featuring a Cross Currents exhibit this month. Curated by Cecily Cullen, creative director of the Center for Visual Art at Metropolitan State University of Denver, the exhibit features the works of nine contemporary Native American artists, and provides a Native American take on modern art.
Native American art is usually thought of as work that celebrates the rich culture and history of indigenous people and documents their struggle with colonialism. The Cross Currents exhibit offers a look at contemporary Native American works, which are outside of this norm. The exhibit offers a unique perspective on the human condition and reflects the difficulties of Native Americans living in today’s society.
In an interview with PBS, artist Frank Buffalo Hyde discussed what lead his motivation to creating his art. He expressed that in his work he wanted to describe his experiences and his life. Due to the fact that his desires were not being made, he decided to create art that speaks to the contemporary Native American existence. Buffalo Hyde focuses primarily on complex issues of identity facing Native Americans today.
In the vein of Andy Warhol, Buffalo Hyde focuses on pop art and challenging stereotypes, but with a Native American slant. As opposed to carrying a bow and arrow and wearing a traditional tribal headdress, a Buffalo Hyde work featured in Cross Currents depicts a weathered Native American man wearing a modern suit and holding a shotgun. The stereotype of the Native American as a warrior is addressed in a contemporary manner.
This is a “drop by” exhibit, which means that on Monday-Friday from 10am-4pm it is open to visits from the public. The exhibit runs until October 7, so there’s still time to check it out.
Native American art is usually thought of as work that celebrates the rich culture and history of indigenous people and documents their struggle with colonialism. The Cross Currents exhibit offers a look at contemporary Native American works, which are outside of this norm. The exhibit offers a unique perspective on the human condition and reflects the difficulties of Native Americans living in today’s society.
In an interview with PBS, artist Frank Buffalo Hyde discussed what lead his motivation to creating his art. He expressed that in his work he wanted to describe his experiences and his life. Due to the fact that his desires were not being made, he decided to create art that speaks to the contemporary Native American existence. Buffalo Hyde focuses primarily on complex issues of identity facing Native Americans today.
In the vein of Andy Warhol, Buffalo Hyde focuses on pop art and challenging stereotypes, but with a Native American slant. As opposed to carrying a bow and arrow and wearing a traditional tribal headdress, a Buffalo Hyde work featured in Cross Currents depicts a weathered Native American man wearing a modern suit and holding a shotgun. The stereotype of the Native American as a warrior is addressed in a contemporary manner.
This is a “drop by” exhibit, which means that on Monday-Friday from 10am-4pm it is open to visits from the public. The exhibit runs until October 7, so there’s still time to check it out.
One Lesson from Ferguson: Know Your Rights
Although there are conflicting accounts of Michael Brown’s death in Ferguson, Missouri on August 9, what is clear is that an unarmed African-American teenager was shot and killed by a police officer during an allegedly racially motivated encounter. Since then, Ferguson has been in a state of unrest with protests, looting, arrests of journalists, press conferences, curfews, the cancellation of the first day of school, and other newsworthy events flooding the media. The media coverage has evoked different opinions on everything from racism in America to individual rights in the face of police confrontation.
As teenagers, it is important that we know our rights and are willing to speak up for them. If we don't know what is expected and required of us, we are at risk of losing our freedom. It is imperative that we are informed of our rights both at school and in interactions with police. Had Michael Brown known about his rights before his encounter with the officer, he may still be alive today.
Encounters with Police
It can be threatening to be approached by a police officer, and you might think that you have to stop and engage in conversation, or do whatever they say. But, that's not the case. If a police officer stops you on the street, the The American Civil Liberties Union offers advice to people about their rights when interacting with police:
1. You do not need to answer any questions other than identification.
2. Do not run away from an officer. Ask if you are free to go or if you are being detained. If they do not say that you are not free to go, than you may walk away.
3. If the officer says you are under arrest then you are being detained. Being detained is different from being arrested.
4. If an officer has ‘reasonable suspicion’ he or she can pat you down outside your clothing.
5. They cannot search anything other than a pat down unless you consent the search. Do not physically resist this if they continue to search without a consent. Contact your lawyer and discuss this with him.
Knowing our rights if stopped by the police helps us as citizens. Protecting our rights assures everyone’s safety and keeps the police's power in check.
There are some exceptions. In Colorado, citizens and non-citizens are required to answer questions asked by the police. If a police officer suspects that you are involved in a crime, you have to provide your name, address, and show your ID. And if you're pulled over while driving, you do have to show your license and registration.
Also, despite what one might think after seeing reporters arrested in Ferguson for filming the police, it's perfectly legal to film the police in a public area, so long as it does not interfere with their official duties. If you see someone being mistreated by the police, you are within your rights to capture the interaction on video.
Being knowledgeable about your rights as a teen, student, and citizen can prevent misunderstandings and accidents. When you encounter the police, know your rights.
At School
In Colorado’s public schools, school authorities can't sensor the material presented in a school newspaper. Colorado is one of only six states with such a free expression law. However, that does not mean we have the right to publish information that's false, that violates someone's privacy, that's obscene, or that incites violence or the breaking of school rules.
A public school can prohibit teachers from assigning certain books and can prohibit students from accessing certain websites through the school Internet. However, it cannot censor the content a student accesses or posts online from outside of the school. (However beware -- you can still be in legal trouble if you publish things that are untrue, harass or attack others, violate others' privacy, or are obscene.)
When we are at school, it's easy to think of our lockers as "ours". But in reality, they are school property, and the school has the right to do a school-wide search of all lockers. However, they can't search an individual locker without "reasonable suspicion” in order to conduct a search. Reasonable suspicion is when police officers have an explicit reason for detaining someone, based on specific and articulable evidence.
If a police officer is working with a school official, less evidence is needed. The officer can act on the school official's reasonable suspicion and search a student on the school’s behalf.
If you ever feel that another student, teacher, administrator, or school policy is violating your rights, take the time to do a little research and find out what's allowed in our state. The American Civil Liberties Union can be a good place to start.
As teenagers, it is important that we know our rights and are willing to speak up for them. If we don't know what is expected and required of us, we are at risk of losing our freedom. It is imperative that we are informed of our rights both at school and in interactions with police. Had Michael Brown known about his rights before his encounter with the officer, he may still be alive today.
Encounters with Police
It can be threatening to be approached by a police officer, and you might think that you have to stop and engage in conversation, or do whatever they say. But, that's not the case. If a police officer stops you on the street, the The American Civil Liberties Union offers advice to people about their rights when interacting with police:
1. You do not need to answer any questions other than identification.
2. Do not run away from an officer. Ask if you are free to go or if you are being detained. If they do not say that you are not free to go, than you may walk away.
3. If the officer says you are under arrest then you are being detained. Being detained is different from being arrested.
4. If an officer has ‘reasonable suspicion’ he or she can pat you down outside your clothing.
5. They cannot search anything other than a pat down unless you consent the search. Do not physically resist this if they continue to search without a consent. Contact your lawyer and discuss this with him.
Knowing our rights if stopped by the police helps us as citizens. Protecting our rights assures everyone’s safety and keeps the police's power in check.
There are some exceptions. In Colorado, citizens and non-citizens are required to answer questions asked by the police. If a police officer suspects that you are involved in a crime, you have to provide your name, address, and show your ID. And if you're pulled over while driving, you do have to show your license and registration.
Also, despite what one might think after seeing reporters arrested in Ferguson for filming the police, it's perfectly legal to film the police in a public area, so long as it does not interfere with their official duties. If you see someone being mistreated by the police, you are within your rights to capture the interaction on video.
Being knowledgeable about your rights as a teen, student, and citizen can prevent misunderstandings and accidents. When you encounter the police, know your rights.
At School
In Colorado’s public schools, school authorities can't sensor the material presented in a school newspaper. Colorado is one of only six states with such a free expression law. However, that does not mean we have the right to publish information that's false, that violates someone's privacy, that's obscene, or that incites violence or the breaking of school rules.
A public school can prohibit teachers from assigning certain books and can prohibit students from accessing certain websites through the school Internet. However, it cannot censor the content a student accesses or posts online from outside of the school. (However beware -- you can still be in legal trouble if you publish things that are untrue, harass or attack others, violate others' privacy, or are obscene.)
When we are at school, it's easy to think of our lockers as "ours". But in reality, they are school property, and the school has the right to do a school-wide search of all lockers. However, they can't search an individual locker without "reasonable suspicion” in order to conduct a search. Reasonable suspicion is when police officers have an explicit reason for detaining someone, based on specific and articulable evidence.
If a police officer is working with a school official, less evidence is needed. The officer can act on the school official's reasonable suspicion and search a student on the school’s behalf.
If you ever feel that another student, teacher, administrator, or school policy is violating your rights, take the time to do a little research and find out what's allowed in our state. The American Civil Liberties Union can be a good place to start.
Migrations Project Debuts at Fort Lewis Art Gallery
The first exhibition at the Fort Lewis Art Gallery for the 2013-14 academic year was called “Migrations”. This exhibit displayed contemporary Native American prints and featured additional works from the Trickster Suite, a famous collection of colored lithographs by New Mexican artists depicting the character of the trickster in folklore. This exhibition ran from September 11th to October 11th and was advertised as showcasing “emerging Native American artists with a contemporary vocabulary.” Each artist was allowed to display two prints. This project was developed at the Tamarind Institute in New Mexico to identify and showcase emerging Native American artists. This exhibition of six different artists was first displayed in 2006 at the University of New Mexico Art Museum and has traveled to institutions across the country since then.
In this exhibit contemporary Native American artists reflected their traditions and cultures of their people. I learned that although quite a few artists of Native decent have achieved national and international recognition, Native American artists have been largely ignored by the power brokers of the art world. This exhibit was displayed in hopes of identifying lesser-known artists, while offering a sample of work by artists who engage in contemporary dialogue in a meaningful way. With the help of many artists and galleries, this exhibit has been a successful attempt at sharing a meaningful artistic dialogue.
While some may not understand the meaning of art I found a significant amount of culture and expression through these pieces of art. This gave me a deeper understanding and appreciation for time and passion put into each piece. Although it may seem easy, a refined piece of art takes a lot of time and commitment in order to express personality completely and end with a great final product. I respected this exhibit because of the different background and approaches that was portrayed through different art.
The exhibit was made up of lithographs. Lithography is a method of printing done with a stone or metal plate with a smooth surface. Although they were all lithographs, their style varied by artists. Many featured brightly saturated colors and almost geometric patterns, where others were more subdued, and still others seemed to tell stories through strange creatures coming together in odd ways.
I particularly enjoyed Star Wallowing Bull’s art presented. This artist had two different pieces shown called “My Three Sisters” and “A Moment Of Silence.” Both of these pieces of work were printed in 2004 in a similar style. Star is from Albuquerque, New Mexico. The prints were so clearly by the same artist, but despite their similarity of style they conveyed very different messages to me. Both featured saturated but natural colors and an almost cartoonish style that utilized bold outlines, geometric shapes, and white space to draw my attention. The playfulness of the style contrasted with the sense of loss and pride shown in the prints. To me, this contrast emphasized the idea of dueling cultural identities.
Another piece of art that caught my eye was the “Alluvium” from Stephen Deo. This artist is also from Albuquerque and made this piece of art in 2004. His piece stood out to me at first primarily because it was so different from the pieces that surrounded it. His color scheme was a mixture of warm and cool colors that, when combined in smooth and flowing lines, offered a contrasting serenity to some of the more severe works. The title brought to mind those things left behind, deposited at the shore, and made me wonder whether the artist was trying to invoke those things he’d left behind, or the things slowly deposited on him until they built up over time.
The random, unique setting of the art displayed from Thamae Setshogo called “Antbear & Acacia” made me stop and observe while walking out the door of this exhibit. I couldn’t help but to try and understand what he meant by his colorful, unfamiliar shapes and objects in his artwork. I realized I was experiencing a sort of artistic culture shock as I was being exposed to themes and styles rarely represented in the Western artworks I’m always shown as examples of “classic” or “important” art. The distinctly African colors and themes of this picture struck a chord with me particularly because I was so unused to them. Thamae is also from Albuquerque, and this work was done in 1999.
It was very intriguing and inspiring to see artists out of the South West region displaying their unknown art to the pubic. We are lucky to have so many opportunities to see and support local art, and we can learn a lot about the cultures of those around us by doing so. Fort Lewis College is a great ongoing source of exhibits. Beginning October 18th, “Juanita Ainsey: Spinning Tales” opens in the college’s art gallery. For those more interested in music, the college will offer a live screening of the Metropolitan Opera on November 9th, and the “Blue Corn Journey” concert of November 19th. More information can be found at www.fortlewis.edu/events/.
In this exhibit contemporary Native American artists reflected their traditions and cultures of their people. I learned that although quite a few artists of Native decent have achieved national and international recognition, Native American artists have been largely ignored by the power brokers of the art world. This exhibit was displayed in hopes of identifying lesser-known artists, while offering a sample of work by artists who engage in contemporary dialogue in a meaningful way. With the help of many artists and galleries, this exhibit has been a successful attempt at sharing a meaningful artistic dialogue.
While some may not understand the meaning of art I found a significant amount of culture and expression through these pieces of art. This gave me a deeper understanding and appreciation for time and passion put into each piece. Although it may seem easy, a refined piece of art takes a lot of time and commitment in order to express personality completely and end with a great final product. I respected this exhibit because of the different background and approaches that was portrayed through different art.
The exhibit was made up of lithographs. Lithography is a method of printing done with a stone or metal plate with a smooth surface. Although they were all lithographs, their style varied by artists. Many featured brightly saturated colors and almost geometric patterns, where others were more subdued, and still others seemed to tell stories through strange creatures coming together in odd ways.
I particularly enjoyed Star Wallowing Bull’s art presented. This artist had two different pieces shown called “My Three Sisters” and “A Moment Of Silence.” Both of these pieces of work were printed in 2004 in a similar style. Star is from Albuquerque, New Mexico. The prints were so clearly by the same artist, but despite their similarity of style they conveyed very different messages to me. Both featured saturated but natural colors and an almost cartoonish style that utilized bold outlines, geometric shapes, and white space to draw my attention. The playfulness of the style contrasted with the sense of loss and pride shown in the prints. To me, this contrast emphasized the idea of dueling cultural identities.
Another piece of art that caught my eye was the “Alluvium” from Stephen Deo. This artist is also from Albuquerque and made this piece of art in 2004. His piece stood out to me at first primarily because it was so different from the pieces that surrounded it. His color scheme was a mixture of warm and cool colors that, when combined in smooth and flowing lines, offered a contrasting serenity to some of the more severe works. The title brought to mind those things left behind, deposited at the shore, and made me wonder whether the artist was trying to invoke those things he’d left behind, or the things slowly deposited on him until they built up over time.
The random, unique setting of the art displayed from Thamae Setshogo called “Antbear & Acacia” made me stop and observe while walking out the door of this exhibit. I couldn’t help but to try and understand what he meant by his colorful, unfamiliar shapes and objects in his artwork. I realized I was experiencing a sort of artistic culture shock as I was being exposed to themes and styles rarely represented in the Western artworks I’m always shown as examples of “classic” or “important” art. The distinctly African colors and themes of this picture struck a chord with me particularly because I was so unused to them. Thamae is also from Albuquerque, and this work was done in 1999.
It was very intriguing and inspiring to see artists out of the South West region displaying their unknown art to the pubic. We are lucky to have so many opportunities to see and support local art, and we can learn a lot about the cultures of those around us by doing so. Fort Lewis College is a great ongoing source of exhibits. Beginning October 18th, “Juanita Ainsey: Spinning Tales” opens in the college’s art gallery. For those more interested in music, the college will offer a live screening of the Metropolitan Opera on November 9th, and the “Blue Corn Journey” concert of November 19th. More information can be found at www.fortlewis.edu/events/.
Durango Autumn Arts Festival Shines Again
The Durango Arts Festival has been held for the past 19 years as the signature event kicking off fall for Durango. The event was held on September 21st and 22nd and the town closed off east Second Avenue to allow the Durango Arts Center to host the festival. The festival is not only a fundraiser for the Durango Arts Center, but it provides an economic boost to our town as it brings in 80 juried artists from all over the country in which their art is selected for display.
I arrived on Saturday to check out the variety of arts booths and meet some of the juried artists. It was a perfect day to stroll down 2nd Avenue and check out the variety of culture expressed through many different types of arts. Not only were different types of art displayed, but local food and live music was provided for entertainment and enjoyment. I listened to Hello Dollface a band of two with Ashley Edwards and drank fresh squeezed pulp lemonade with enjoyed an organic stir-fry from a local town cart. As of Saturday, Peggy Zemach, the Executive Director of the Durango Arts Center, said that over 2,300 visitors had already visited the show by 4pm. Unfortunately, with wet weather on Sunday they were forced to close the booths early at 2pm, but they still had a vibrant morning.
There was an amazing array of art displayed including: ceramic, drawings/pastels, fiber non wearable, fiber wearable, glass, graphics/prints, jewelry, metal, paintings, photography sculpture, wood, and other types of art. I had the opportunity to interview several different artists. One artist I interviewed was Ramon A. Velasquez from Rio Rico, Arizona. His specifically works with metal and iron making colorful tables, benches, and design sculptures. He melts copper and brass together to bring out stunning formations with vibrant colors. Ramon was from Guadalajara originally. His father was an artist and inspired him to become an artist. He was very excited to be able to display his art on the streets of Durango. Erin Camarca, a local artist born and raised in Durango was showing her artwork done with colored pencils. She was self taught and always had a passion for art. She recently became a professional, as it took her time to gain the confidence to display her art. When asked what inspired her to become an artist she replied, “Things are rattling around in your brain, it’s a good way to express it.”
One artist that caught my eye was Stepanie St- Thomas from Salt Lake City, Utah. Stephanie had a diverse background, representing different cultures. She was born in Madrid, Spain and spent her childhood in Paris, where she was influenced by the Louvre and watercolors. When she moved to the United States, she went to the University of Utah. Stephanie had an exclusive jewelry line that was carried by Saks 5th Avenue. She works with painting, large scale and acrylic landscapes. On Saturday she displayed some beautiful paintings as well as unique design on jewelry, mirrors, and glass pieces. She was clearly an experienced artist and had been in the art field for thirty years. Stephanie stated, “I like to do things that are happy and show nature.”
A less eccentric, down to earth artist Scott Wheeler was displaying his photography from Butte Montana. He has been working with photography since the 1990s and has been selling his art in shows throughout the country for about ten years. Scott was self taught and had always enjoying playing with shutter speed on a camera and capturing beauty around the states. He is really talented at taking amazing photos by using a slow shutter speed to capture moments such as lightening striking across a hilly landscape. Scott loved to capture the nature around him including animals, flowers, landscapes, and trees.
Despite the inclement weather, the 19th Durango Autumn Arts Festival proved to be another great success. This event brought artists, vendors, and community members together to enjoy a relaxing event surrounded by arts, entertainment, food, and culture. Without a doubt the arts community in Durango is important and this event confirms that it is thriving.
I arrived on Saturday to check out the variety of arts booths and meet some of the juried artists. It was a perfect day to stroll down 2nd Avenue and check out the variety of culture expressed through many different types of arts. Not only were different types of art displayed, but local food and live music was provided for entertainment and enjoyment. I listened to Hello Dollface a band of two with Ashley Edwards and drank fresh squeezed pulp lemonade with enjoyed an organic stir-fry from a local town cart. As of Saturday, Peggy Zemach, the Executive Director of the Durango Arts Center, said that over 2,300 visitors had already visited the show by 4pm. Unfortunately, with wet weather on Sunday they were forced to close the booths early at 2pm, but they still had a vibrant morning.
There was an amazing array of art displayed including: ceramic, drawings/pastels, fiber non wearable, fiber wearable, glass, graphics/prints, jewelry, metal, paintings, photography sculpture, wood, and other types of art. I had the opportunity to interview several different artists. One artist I interviewed was Ramon A. Velasquez from Rio Rico, Arizona. His specifically works with metal and iron making colorful tables, benches, and design sculptures. He melts copper and brass together to bring out stunning formations with vibrant colors. Ramon was from Guadalajara originally. His father was an artist and inspired him to become an artist. He was very excited to be able to display his art on the streets of Durango. Erin Camarca, a local artist born and raised in Durango was showing her artwork done with colored pencils. She was self taught and always had a passion for art. She recently became a professional, as it took her time to gain the confidence to display her art. When asked what inspired her to become an artist she replied, “Things are rattling around in your brain, it’s a good way to express it.”
One artist that caught my eye was Stepanie St- Thomas from Salt Lake City, Utah. Stephanie had a diverse background, representing different cultures. She was born in Madrid, Spain and spent her childhood in Paris, where she was influenced by the Louvre and watercolors. When she moved to the United States, she went to the University of Utah. Stephanie had an exclusive jewelry line that was carried by Saks 5th Avenue. She works with painting, large scale and acrylic landscapes. On Saturday she displayed some beautiful paintings as well as unique design on jewelry, mirrors, and glass pieces. She was clearly an experienced artist and had been in the art field for thirty years. Stephanie stated, “I like to do things that are happy and show nature.”
A less eccentric, down to earth artist Scott Wheeler was displaying his photography from Butte Montana. He has been working with photography since the 1990s and has been selling his art in shows throughout the country for about ten years. Scott was self taught and had always enjoying playing with shutter speed on a camera and capturing beauty around the states. He is really talented at taking amazing photos by using a slow shutter speed to capture moments such as lightening striking across a hilly landscape. Scott loved to capture the nature around him including animals, flowers, landscapes, and trees.
Despite the inclement weather, the 19th Durango Autumn Arts Festival proved to be another great success. This event brought artists, vendors, and community members together to enjoy a relaxing event surrounded by arts, entertainment, food, and culture. Without a doubt the arts community in Durango is important and this event confirms that it is thriving.
AHS Students Finding Fulfillments In Their Summer Journeys
While most of us were enjoying the sunny days on the Animas River or exploring the mountains of Durango, other students from Animas High School gained their experiences through world travels.
Senior Molly Black joined her church group on a volunteer trip to Kenya this summer where she volunteered at an Islamic orphanage and school for abused girls. During here two-week journey, she built great relationships and had amazing experiences. Molly exclaimed, “It was so beautiful to get to know these people and hear their stories!” Molly referred to an experience she had in Kenya delivering food baskets in a village called Spring Valley in Nairobi. While walking through the village she met a boy who went to the school where she was working. The boy took her to his house where he introduced her to his family comprised of four siblings. He told her that his parents were gone. The oldest sister, only 15 years of age, sold herself into prostitution in order to provide money for their family and helps pay their rent. The ten-year-old brother stayed at home and raised his one-year-old baby sister. The seven-year old boy and the boy Molly met on the street were the lucky ones who were able to attend school. All the people in the village live in tiny shacks made of scraps of metal. Molly experienced a completely different lifestyle then we are accustomed to here in the States. “They don’t have enough money for food or anything we are fortunate enough to have here. Walking into this situation broke my heart.” Despite her despair, Molly maintained hope. Though these people were living far below the poverty level, she felt that they were the most resilient, strong, loving, giving, and gracious people she had ever met. Material goods did not define happiness for these Kenyans. It seems as if they do not miss what they do not have. Molly had an amazing time in Kenya and hopes to go back for a longer trip in the future.
Deanna Hutton traveled with a small group of people from Cortez, Grand Junction, and Texas to Brazil! The goal of the trip was to experience different cultures, volunteer at various organizations, and extend their faith by attending mass to experience religion in this very spiritual society. The dominant religion in Brazil is Christianity, but due to its diverse culture and heritage the country boasts an array of different religions, ideals, and affiliations. Deanna stayed with a host family for two weeks. Similar to Molly’s experience, Deanna’s favorite part of this trip was getting to connect with a variety of people, but Deanna also loved exploring Brazil’s captivating attractions. “One of my favorite things I did was going on the gondola ride to view the entire city.” She hopes to go back one day to experience Brazil with no boundaries.
Other Animas students went on long back packing trips throughout Europe and Alaska! Sam Kuenzel went on a month long backpacking trip through Europe crossing the boundaries of: Germany, Amsterdam, London, Paris, France, Switzerland, Italy, Rome, Florence, Venice, and Vienna and Prague. Sam got in shape and had a blast! “It was absolutely amazing. One cool experience of mine was going to the Vatican in Rome. The new Pope there does random services and when I visited he happened to be there! I got to hear him give a service in three different languages including English, Italian, and Latin.” Sam traveled around with his friend from Germany a foreign exchange student that attended Animas High School last year. On his backpacking journey Sam and his friends were waved at by Prince Charles right outside the royal palace! After they traveled around Europe they were lucky enough to end their trip relaxing in the Bahamas.
On the other side of the globe, Josh Davoust experienced a four-week National Outdoor Leadership School in Alaska. He spent his time backpacking and sea kayaking in the majestic natural surroundings. He enjoyed being alone with his, Leadership group while simultaneously learning logical outdoor skills. Josh said that one of his most memorable moments was stumbling upon a grizzly bear that was about fifty feet away from him. “It ran really quickly away from me. This was a really intense experience because Grizzly bears are very large animals. You quickly realize you’re not on the top of the food chain!” Lastly, Josh got to see several glaciers, sea lions, and whales. Although this part of his summer wasn’t exactly tanning on a beach, he enjoyed the chilly Alaskan air and adventures he got to experience.
Overall, while most of us were enjoying Durango, Animas High School students explored the Globe and the wonderful things both abroad and throughout the US. We are a fortunate group and it is no wonder that we bring so many diversified opinions and thoughts to the table.
Senior Molly Black joined her church group on a volunteer trip to Kenya this summer where she volunteered at an Islamic orphanage and school for abused girls. During here two-week journey, she built great relationships and had amazing experiences. Molly exclaimed, “It was so beautiful to get to know these people and hear their stories!” Molly referred to an experience she had in Kenya delivering food baskets in a village called Spring Valley in Nairobi. While walking through the village she met a boy who went to the school where she was working. The boy took her to his house where he introduced her to his family comprised of four siblings. He told her that his parents were gone. The oldest sister, only 15 years of age, sold herself into prostitution in order to provide money for their family and helps pay their rent. The ten-year-old brother stayed at home and raised his one-year-old baby sister. The seven-year old boy and the boy Molly met on the street were the lucky ones who were able to attend school. All the people in the village live in tiny shacks made of scraps of metal. Molly experienced a completely different lifestyle then we are accustomed to here in the States. “They don’t have enough money for food or anything we are fortunate enough to have here. Walking into this situation broke my heart.” Despite her despair, Molly maintained hope. Though these people were living far below the poverty level, she felt that they were the most resilient, strong, loving, giving, and gracious people she had ever met. Material goods did not define happiness for these Kenyans. It seems as if they do not miss what they do not have. Molly had an amazing time in Kenya and hopes to go back for a longer trip in the future.
Deanna Hutton traveled with a small group of people from Cortez, Grand Junction, and Texas to Brazil! The goal of the trip was to experience different cultures, volunteer at various organizations, and extend their faith by attending mass to experience religion in this very spiritual society. The dominant religion in Brazil is Christianity, but due to its diverse culture and heritage the country boasts an array of different religions, ideals, and affiliations. Deanna stayed with a host family for two weeks. Similar to Molly’s experience, Deanna’s favorite part of this trip was getting to connect with a variety of people, but Deanna also loved exploring Brazil’s captivating attractions. “One of my favorite things I did was going on the gondola ride to view the entire city.” She hopes to go back one day to experience Brazil with no boundaries.
Other Animas students went on long back packing trips throughout Europe and Alaska! Sam Kuenzel went on a month long backpacking trip through Europe crossing the boundaries of: Germany, Amsterdam, London, Paris, France, Switzerland, Italy, Rome, Florence, Venice, and Vienna and Prague. Sam got in shape and had a blast! “It was absolutely amazing. One cool experience of mine was going to the Vatican in Rome. The new Pope there does random services and when I visited he happened to be there! I got to hear him give a service in three different languages including English, Italian, and Latin.” Sam traveled around with his friend from Germany a foreign exchange student that attended Animas High School last year. On his backpacking journey Sam and his friends were waved at by Prince Charles right outside the royal palace! After they traveled around Europe they were lucky enough to end their trip relaxing in the Bahamas.
On the other side of the globe, Josh Davoust experienced a four-week National Outdoor Leadership School in Alaska. He spent his time backpacking and sea kayaking in the majestic natural surroundings. He enjoyed being alone with his, Leadership group while simultaneously learning logical outdoor skills. Josh said that one of his most memorable moments was stumbling upon a grizzly bear that was about fifty feet away from him. “It ran really quickly away from me. This was a really intense experience because Grizzly bears are very large animals. You quickly realize you’re not on the top of the food chain!” Lastly, Josh got to see several glaciers, sea lions, and whales. Although this part of his summer wasn’t exactly tanning on a beach, he enjoyed the chilly Alaskan air and adventures he got to experience.
Overall, while most of us were enjoying Durango, Animas High School students explored the Globe and the wonderful things both abroad and throughout the US. We are a fortunate group and it is no wonder that we bring so many diversified opinions and thoughts to the table.
Unpredictable Spring Weather In The Rockies!
Colorado weather has always been outlandish. Lately, the weather is extremely difficult to predict because it can change in minutes! Citizens have been dressing and scheduling their days depending on the weather! Students and Staff at Animas High School share their stories and experiences in the Rockies dealing with the unpredictable weather!
Taylor Roster (Student at AHS): I like the variety and change in the weather.
Colleen Dunning (Biology Teacher): I like the weather because it adds excitement to my day. Variety is the spice of life.
Riley and Jessie: (Two students at AHS)
Riley Rifkin: “The weather makes life difficult because it is hard to figure out what to wear. You don’t know if it is going to be sunny in the morning and rainy in the afternoon or snowy in the morning and sunny in the afternoon.”
Jessie Dvirnak (Junior): “Or perhaps sunny in the morning and snowy in the afternoon or a tornado in the evening! One of these days we might get an earthquake or something.”
Riley Rifkin: We would suggest wearing a poncho or really short shorts with long socks that you can pull up if you get cold.
Jessie D: Another option would be to wear a jacket with rip off sleeves! Or you could wear rip off pants with shorts underneath!
Hannah Quick: “When it was really dusty and gross outside with the pollen and the dust it alternated my allergies and it is killing me today.”
Caleb Darlan: “I love the weather in the spring when it is not snowing or not dusty outside.”
Taylor Roster (Student at AHS): I like the variety and change in the weather.
Colleen Dunning (Biology Teacher): I like the weather because it adds excitement to my day. Variety is the spice of life.
Riley and Jessie: (Two students at AHS)
Riley Rifkin: “The weather makes life difficult because it is hard to figure out what to wear. You don’t know if it is going to be sunny in the morning and rainy in the afternoon or snowy in the morning and sunny in the afternoon.”
Jessie Dvirnak (Junior): “Or perhaps sunny in the morning and snowy in the afternoon or a tornado in the evening! One of these days we might get an earthquake or something.”
Riley Rifkin: We would suggest wearing a poncho or really short shorts with long socks that you can pull up if you get cold.
Jessie D: Another option would be to wear a jacket with rip off sleeves! Or you could wear rip off pants with shorts underneath!
Hannah Quick: “When it was really dusty and gross outside with the pollen and the dust it alternated my allergies and it is killing me today.”
Caleb Darlan: “I love the weather in the spring when it is not snowing or not dusty outside.”
OTHER:
WANT A BIKE PARK AT CHAPMAN? YOUR VOTE COULD BE WORTH THOUSANDS OF DOLLARS!
Calling all bikers, outdoor enthusiasts and passionate recreationalists, Durango needs your vote. Trails 2000 Executive Director, Mary Monroe, has been working hard in conjunction with the City of Durango and local riders to secure funding for a Chapman Hill Bike Park. They are currently in the running for a Bell Built Grant – an online voting contest - that would be utilized to fund our first ever in town Pump Track at Chapman Hill. While we have over 300 miles of trails within 30 minutes of downtown, we have no pump track for our gravity enthusiasts, DEVO team, and recreational riders looking for some fun in town trails to improve their technical skills. The plan has been approved by the Durango City Council and the final step is to secure funding. Now more than ever – YOUR VOTE COUNTS!
Bell Helmets is offering up to $100,000 in technical assistance money to fund three bike projects to be built in 2014 by International Mountain Bicycling Association (IMBA) Trail Solutions. There were initially 64 applicants and 4 finalists were announced this past March in the Central Region including our own Durango, Colorado Chapman Bike Park Project. Contenders against Durango are:
* Cottage Grove Bike Park, Cottage Grove, MN
* Andres Bike Park, Carpentersville, IL
* Hobbs Hollow Flow Trail, Nashville, IN
The finalist for the Central Region will be picked based on the number of votes it receives from the community. Here is the skinny: if we get behind this project, spread the word, encourage friends and family to vote and achieve the most on line votes, then we win! The grant has been submitted, we made it to the finals, now the community must show our support to secure funding.
Vote for Durango at www.bellhelmets.com/bellbuilt
Voting can be cast starting on Monday, April 21st – Monday, May 5th
The bike park will be intentionally separated from the multi-use trail system at Chapman Hill used for hiking, running, and dog walking, allowing a wide range of outdoor enthusiasts to utilize Chapman Hill for recreational purposes. The bike park would be a strong compliment to Durango’s existing multi-use trail system creating an opportunity for bikers of all age levels to develop specific technical skills on in town trails. Trails 2000 collaborated and brought other groups to the table to assist in the planning process of the proposed bike park including: DEVO; Durango Winter Sports Foundation; Durango BMX; Fort Lewis College and local enthusiasts.
Bell Helmets is offering up to $100,000 in technical assistance money to fund three bike projects to be built in 2014 by International Mountain Bicycling Association (IMBA) Trail Solutions. There were initially 64 applicants and 4 finalists were announced this past March in the Central Region including our own Durango, Colorado Chapman Bike Park Project. Contenders against Durango are:
* Cottage Grove Bike Park, Cottage Grove, MN
* Andres Bike Park, Carpentersville, IL
* Hobbs Hollow Flow Trail, Nashville, IN
The finalist for the Central Region will be picked based on the number of votes it receives from the community. Here is the skinny: if we get behind this project, spread the word, encourage friends and family to vote and achieve the most on line votes, then we win! The grant has been submitted, we made it to the finals, now the community must show our support to secure funding.
Vote for Durango at www.bellhelmets.com/bellbuilt
Voting can be cast starting on Monday, April 21st – Monday, May 5th
The bike park will be intentionally separated from the multi-use trail system at Chapman Hill used for hiking, running, and dog walking, allowing a wide range of outdoor enthusiasts to utilize Chapman Hill for recreational purposes. The bike park would be a strong compliment to Durango’s existing multi-use trail system creating an opportunity for bikers of all age levels to develop specific technical skills on in town trails. Trails 2000 collaborated and brought other groups to the table to assist in the planning process of the proposed bike park including: DEVO; Durango Winter Sports Foundation; Durango BMX; Fort Lewis College and local enthusiasts.
Hot-dogging!
Freestyle skiing is a form of skiing, which originally encompassed two disciplines: aerials and moguls. Besides those, freestyle skiing now consists of skicross, half-pipe, and slope style. Freestyle skiing began in the 1960s and early 1970s when competitions were contested seriously. The term “freestyle” was synonymous with “hot-dogging.” This free-form sport had only a few rules and was not without danger. Knee injuries were frequent for professional freestylers. People were worried this was too dangerous of a sport to become an Olympic event. In 1979 the International Ski Federation recognized freestyle skiing as a sport. They brought in new regulations regarding certification of athletes and jump techniques in effort to curb the dangerous elements of the competitions. Medals were made at the 1992 Winter Olympics in Albertville for moguls and, in 1994, the aerials event was added for the Winter Olympics in Lillehammer. Back then; the goal was to get through the moguls and to the finish line as fast as one could. Style, back in the day, was to wear standard boots, and always wear black or white covers on their knees so the judge could see their form. For freestyle skiing the length of skis were 185 cm for men and 175 for women. Olympic skiers are remembered as using K2 classics during the beginning of freestyle skiing. Classic tricks were cross overs, Daigle bangers, Wong bangers, mule kicks, spreads, co-sacks, screaming semen, daffy, and twisters. To this day, freestyle skiing has remained a popular fun sport that has evolved over time.
Skiers can start on the Freestyle ski team at any age. Today you build the skill competing in Devo events from ages 5 -12 years of age, and then build up to USSA events (ages 12 and over). The USSA course is 200-meters long with two jumps and moguls in between. These events are held at various resorts in the country, with many skiers competing to earn qualifying points towards a year-end event, called Junior Nationals. Junior Nationals is a USSA event, where the top 20 athletes in this event will move on to Nationals. Invitations to these events are based off the national points list.
Most athletes that are competing at the National level are also competing in the North American tour. This is composed of the top skiers from the US and Canada who compete towards a spot competing in the World Cup. The World Cup athletes then compete with athletes from all around the world in hopes of making an Olympic position. Once an athlete makes the US Olympic team, you are only guaranteed a spot for one year. In order to maintain this illustrious position you must maintain a top twenty spot on the World Cup tour.
Freestyle skiing has come a long way from the days of hotdog skiers showing their tricks on the mountain. Today, athletes can see a direct pathway to an Olympic spot, where they would have the opportunity to represent the United States in a very athletically demanding sport.
Skiers can start on the Freestyle ski team at any age. Today you build the skill competing in Devo events from ages 5 -12 years of age, and then build up to USSA events (ages 12 and over). The USSA course is 200-meters long with two jumps and moguls in between. These events are held at various resorts in the country, with many skiers competing to earn qualifying points towards a year-end event, called Junior Nationals. Junior Nationals is a USSA event, where the top 20 athletes in this event will move on to Nationals. Invitations to these events are based off the national points list.
Most athletes that are competing at the National level are also competing in the North American tour. This is composed of the top skiers from the US and Canada who compete towards a spot competing in the World Cup. The World Cup athletes then compete with athletes from all around the world in hopes of making an Olympic position. Once an athlete makes the US Olympic team, you are only guaranteed a spot for one year. In order to maintain this illustrious position you must maintain a top twenty spot on the World Cup tour.
Freestyle skiing has come a long way from the days of hotdog skiers showing their tricks on the mountain. Today, athletes can see a direct pathway to an Olympic spot, where they would have the opportunity to represent the United States in a very athletically demanding sport.
25 Tips and Activities to Maximize Your Summer!
1. Go Camping!
2. Take a last minute road trip
3. Read a trashy novel
4. Get caught in a summer rainstorm
5. Go Horseback Riding
6. Go or learn to kayak or raft!
7. Go on an adventure hike! (Night hikes are always fun!)
8. Make crafts!
9. Blow Bubbles!
10. Re-organize your room!
11. Volunteer in organizations around the community
12. Do some local camps!
13. Create a fort both outside and inside! After you do this set a goal to live in it for a set time period.
14. Cook new food!
15. Lemonade stand
16. Build a tire swing
17. Visit a farm and see the baby animals
18. Fly a kite
19. Plant a flower
20. Play a game of miniature golf
21. Make vanilla pudding. Put in mayo jar. Eat in public.
22. Participate in a paint fight
23. Go zip lining
24. Make a sand castle at paradise!
25. Attend a concert
2. Take a last minute road trip
3. Read a trashy novel
4. Get caught in a summer rainstorm
5. Go Horseback Riding
6. Go or learn to kayak or raft!
7. Go on an adventure hike! (Night hikes are always fun!)
8. Make crafts!
9. Blow Bubbles!
10. Re-organize your room!
11. Volunteer in organizations around the community
12. Do some local camps!
13. Create a fort both outside and inside! After you do this set a goal to live in it for a set time period.
14. Cook new food!
15. Lemonade stand
16. Build a tire swing
17. Visit a farm and see the baby animals
18. Fly a kite
19. Plant a flower
20. Play a game of miniature golf
21. Make vanilla pudding. Put in mayo jar. Eat in public.
22. Participate in a paint fight
23. Go zip lining
24. Make a sand castle at paradise!
25. Attend a concert
Hope you hit the gym- Spring Tryouts Looming!
Ospreys are you ready for spring sports? Do you or a friend want to get involved? The following sports are on the short term horizon: Track, Baseball, Girls Soccer, Boys Swimming, Girls Golf, Girls Tennis, and Boys and Girls Lacrosse! All spring sports start February 25th! Non-9R athletics are required to pay a fee. The individual fee is $112.50, the individual cap is $225.00, and the family cap is $300.00. Red Cards are required prior to participation in tryouts. To get your red card you must demonstrate proof that you are taking the minimum number of classes as required by DHS. For all of you Ospreys, you can have Maureen Truax in the Register’s Office e-mail your current class schedule to DHS. You must also prove that you have met the minimum grade requirements, which mandate that you may not be failing more than one class at the bi-weekly or semester grade checks. Participants failing more than one class in the semester prior to participation will be ineligible for the first six weeks of the following semester. Once again, the Register’s Office can send your prior semester transcript to prove that you are eligible. Lastly, be aware that students must ensure that all absences from class are excused during the athletic season. Absences not excused within a 48-hour window will render the student ineligible for their next competition or event that week. Good luck in tryouts everyone! May the Ospreys make us proud!