The Power of Media

By Alyssa Jacobs

If I were asked to define the perfect class, I would say it has to offer hands on learning, an interesting curriculum and exposure to thought-provoking films. The Digital Media class at Coal Ridge has these things and more. Taught by Alec Raffin and Ms. McCracken, this class is run through a non-profit organization called Mpower whose focus is student empowerment through media. It is taught at Coal Ridge and throughout the Roaring Fork Valley. The class presents students with a new perspective on media by promoting discussions the power of media in our society, the development of plot, film language and more. Students then go through the production steps to make their own short films.

“This class teaches us to use the most powerful tool we have: media,” says Katie Cox, a senior in the class.

Another student, Nicholas Villarreal says, “Even if you don't pursue film later in life, the things learned are important and applicable.”

Alec Raffin was recently recognized by the Re-2 School Board and received the Outstanding Business Partner of the Month Award. “Thanks to Alec, I now walk down the hall picturing how this scene would look though a view finder,” said junior Giovanny Hernandez.

Singing For High Praises

By Christie Harju

Coal Ridge High School Varsity Choir members auditioned for the Adams, Western, and All State Honor Choirs in October.

“Auditioning for honor choirs is one of the few opportunities for students to work individually. It challenges them to apply what is learned in class to a 15 minute evaluation of their talent and musicianship,” explained Ms. Schmidt.

About 250 choir students from all over Colorado make it into Adams or Western Honor Choirs for a weekend of practicing choral music. They end the weekend with a concert. Adams State Honor Choir takes place at Adams State College in Alamosa in February, and Western Slope Honor Choir takes place at Western State College in Gunnison in March.

Freshmen choir member Morgan Groves said, “I decided to audition because my two older sisters, Kayla and Paige, have both auditioned and made it into the Western Slope Honor Choir, and I wanted to challenge myself.”

There were five choir members that auditioned this year: Kerri Bintliff, Gretchen Jurmu, Paige Groves, Morgan Groves, and Christie Harju.

Sophomore choir member Kerri Bintliff said, “The audition was very emotional for me because I was scared to do it. Now it helps to know that the audition isn't that bad.”

The results for the Adams and Western Honor Choirs should be received before the students leave for Christmas Break.

Two junior girls auditioned for the All State Honor Choir this year, Paige Groves and Christie Harju. All State Honor Choir takes place in Denver on February 7-9. This honor choir is challenging to make it into because it is a competition between junior and senior choir members from all over the state of Colorado.

“It took a lot of preparation, but when I finished my audition, I was really relieved, and I felt that I did well. It definitely gave me more confidence in my singing and I learned a lot from it,” said junior choir member, Paige Groves.

Ms. Schmidt added, “I am so proud of everyone who auditioned. Each student represented CRHS and the music department so well!”

Spotlight on … Melissa Starbuck

By Chelyn McCain

Melissa Starbuck joined the 2009 cross-country team a week later than she had intended due to an injury. However, her injury didn't stop her from reaching her goals. She became a very dedicated runner and put her heart into every race. She made great improvements throughout the season: reducing her race time by three minutes! She missed out on State by one place, but pushed her teammate, Chelyn, into Regionals to edge out the last state spot. Melissa is most appreciated, though, for the infectious good attitude she brought to the team. All the smiles and laughs that make a team started with her. She made each day a new adventure for everyone. It was her first year in cross country, but not the last. We'll all be looking forward to watching her run in the 2010 cross country season.