A Publication by the Students of the FRCC-Larimer Campus

V OLUME 6, I SSUE 2 NOV 2007 TO FEB 2008

F REE S PEECH FOR M E , T YLER C ARRON

B UT N OT FOR T HEE ? W ALKS ON
BY L OREN B AYLES , BY L ANDREE M AC L ENNAN ,
R ANGEVIEW R EPORTER R ANGEVIEW R EPORTER

Bob Lozen, 21, a business major in his “Champions of Life” is a phrase that
second year at FRCC, walked out of his two families came up with that represents
Comparative Government class in Chal- their teen boys‟ courageous battle through a
lenger Point several weeks ago and saw a tragic accident that has changed their lives
flyer that read “White Pride Day” posted forever. Life comes with many obstacles—
on the hallway bulletin board. this one, unforgettable, but for these boys,
“I caught it out of the corner of my not unbeatable.
eye,” he said, “and I didn‟t think it said
Tyler Carron, 18, a freshman at Front
what it actually said, and then I came back Photo by Loren Bayles Range, and Nikko Landeros, 18, a senior at
by and took a closer look. I couldn‟t be-
Berthoud High School, expected nothing
lieve it was up in the school because you
However, Student Life staff would but the best on the night of their school
usually have to get approved to post stuff.”
have been within their rights to do so as dance in January of this year. But they were
During the weeks that have passed
the flyers were not pre-approved, date- severely injured while changing a flat tire
since the flyers were taken down by un-
stamped or associated with an existing on Larimer County Road 17, when they
known parties, it has come to light that the
FRCC organization. But what may sur- were hit by another car that pinned them
flyer was actually part of a class experi-
prise many is that if Student Life had between two vehicles. They were airlifted to
ment conducted by a student under the
been responsible for the removal, it Denver Medical Health Center, and their
guidance of an FRCC faculty member.
would have been due to these technicali- injuries required both their legs to be ampu-
Erin Smith, director of Student Life
ties, and not necessarily because of the tated. It is now months later and they are
since 2004, explains that, “If they were
flyer‟s content. continuing to progress in their recovery.
pulled, it wasn‟t by my staff.”
(Continued on page 4) Carron and Landeros have always been
good friends. They were teammates on
their high school wrestling team. But now
their bond has become even greater. “I can
talk to [Landeros] if I‟m sad or need help,
because he knows what I‟m going through,”
Carron said.
The young men spoke to an audience at
the Longs Peak Student Center on Oct. 23.

(Continued on page 5)

FRCC student Tyler Carron (foreground)

and Nikko Landeros greet well-wishers
after their talk at the Longs Peak Student
Center on Oct. 23. Both young men
were involved in an accident in January
after which their legs were amputated.
Photo by Landree MacLennan
 2

M EET OUR E DITORIAL T EAM

Faculty Advisor &

Managing Editor………...… Kate Tarasenko
Editorial Team…….…...….…Ashley Bailey
………………….…………Justin Bauer
………………….…………..Mary Leek
…………………..…Landree MacLennan
………………….………..Trent Sawyer
…………………..….Nathan Schiefelbein
Photo Team…….. .…… .….… Loren Bayles
…………….……………..…Kate Elisha
……………..…………..Denise Marshall
…………….……….Rebecca Morehouse
…………….……………….Jill Prenger
EDITORIAL TEAM (left to right): Nathan Schiefelbein, Mary Leek, Trent Sawyer, Ashley …………….……………..Ashley Storm
Bailey, Justin Bauer and Landree MacLennan. Photo by Denise Marshall
…………….……………...Nick Sutphin
Layout…….. ..….……...……Kate Tarasenko
MISSION STATEMENT:
Advisory Board……….... .…..Karl Dukstein
The Rangeview provides a voice for FRCC’s Larimer campus. We strive to give our read- ……………………..…….Kathy Mendt
ers accurate and balanced coverage on a variety of news and events in an effort to keep our
campus well-informed about their college community. We approach our responsibilities ……………………..…..…..Erin Smith
with the goal of maintaining the highest journalistic standards to the best of our abilities. ……………………..…..…..Rob Suglia
.……………… …...….Kate Tarasenko
M EET OUR P HOTO T EAM
SUBMISSIONS POLICY:
We welcome feedback, letters to the editor,
articles and op-ed pieces (as well as story
ideas and tips) from all members of the FRCC
community. Please do not exceed 600 words.
The Rangeview also accepts photos and art-
work in J-Peg format (min. 1,200 pixels on
the long side).
All submissions must be emailed directly
from your FRCC account as a Word.doc or
J-Peg attachment, and must be accompanied
by full name and local phone number, to:

Rangeview@FrontRange.edu
All submissions are subject to final approval
by the Editing Team/Advisory Board, and
may be edited for length, clarity, and poten-
tially libelous content.
Please submit your
calendar items and events to
Rob.Suglia@FrontRange.edu.

PHOTO TEAM (left to right): Nick Sutphin, Kate Elisha, Ashley Storm, Rebecca Morehouse,
ALL CONTENT © 2007 RANGEVIEW
Denise Marshall, Jill Prenger and Loren Bayles. Photo by Justin Bauer

ALSO
IN THIS ISSUE:
Create-A-Future……...….4
Serving the Students
Work Study….……...……6
Single Parent Prog..……...7
FRCC Connect…..……….8
ACC Center….……..…….9
Counseling Srvcs…...….10
Scholars’ Square
Honors Inst……………...11
Poli Sci Dept..…………..12
Astronomy Dept..……….13
Philosophy Dept…....…...14
Horticulture Dept……….14
Club Hub
SIFE……..……………...15
Psych Club.…………….16
Campus Wellness
“The Long Run”….…….17
Medium Cool
Music Dept…….……….18
NaNoWriMo…….……..19
Be Our Guest
Poudre in Peril………….20
SPRING 2008
Register for JOU-106,
the Fundamentals of
Reporting, and write for
The Rangeview!
(3 transfer credit hours;
3:10 to 4:25 p.m., TR)
Also offered as an
Honors Institute class.
3
F ROM O UR R EADERS
The new Rangeview looks
great. It's good to see a student
paper again, and I especially ap-
preciated the articles on the Writ-
ing Center, Adjunct Appreciation
Day, and “My Word” readings.
Keep up the good work!
Sandra Lieb
English Lit Instructor
Congratulations on doing
such a great job with the
Rangeview this year. I just picked
up the October issue and was
pleasantly surprised at the profes-
sional quality content.
Carmen Myrtis-Garcia
Women's Studies and Humanities
Instructor
Vice President Dr. Jim Butzek holds
a tote board for the Create-A-Future
high school scholarship program.
Story begins on page 4.
Photo by Denise Marshall
Better World Book Drive
Students and faculty: Please donate books you are no
longer using for classes or textbooks you are unable to sell
at buyback during FRCC‟s Better World Book Drive.
Phi Theta Kappa and Student Life are collecting textbooks
to raise money for Worldfund, which supports high-quality
education for impoverished communities. All books will
be sold online to generate a sustainable stream of unre-
stricted funding for the organization.
Collection bins are located in the Longs Peak Student Cen-
ter and Mount Antero.
Dr. Rosemarie Russo
Dean of Instruction
Learning Community Classes Are Back
Learning Community classes are two classes co-taught by
two instructors for one semester. The instructors organize
the syllabi for the two classes so that the assignments and
readings are integrated.
Currently, Shawna Jackson and Matt Stilwell are co-
teaching Basic Composition (ENG-090) and Introduction to
Literature (LIT-115) as a Learning Community class. Stu-
dents receive credit for both courses and complete their
developmental English class (ENG-090) while also taking a
college-level, transfer course (LIT-115).
Learning Community classes improve the educational ex-
perience by integrating courses across academic disciplines,
and they support and challenge students in developmental
classes. The Learning Community instructors also really
get to know each student individually.
There are three Learning Community classes offered in
Spring 2008: ENG-090 and LIT-115; ENG-090 and POS-
111 (Political Science: American Government); and an
accelerated English combination of ENG-060 and ENG-
090. Students can register for any of these classes by seeing
an Academic Advisor in Mount Antero.
Megan Gruseck
Academic Case Manager and Advisor
“News is information with high blood pressure.”
— Arthur Baer
The Rangeview is funded by Student Life, using student
fees, and by the Department of Arts & Letters.
Content for The Rangeview is provided by
the journalism students of JOU-106,
the Fundamentals of Reporting.

(FREE SPEECH Continued from page 1)
According to the FRCC Posting Guidelines and Policies,
“No outside entity is allowed to post anywhere on the FRCC-L
campus, with the exception of the two boards in the LPSC and
the Harmony Library (pending their approval).” What this
means is that any event flyer or posting of any kind, if not di-
rectly involved with FRCC or with an existing campus club or
organization, has no business on any bulletin board at FRCC,
save the two, and if
posted at either
location, it must be
approved for posting
and date-stamped.
FRCC‟s posting
“Everyone is entitled to the
guidelines state that right of free speech...but it
they “…neither in- also should protect me as a
tend to discriminate, passerby. I should be able
censor nor prohibit to avoid it if I want to.”
the free exchange of
information within
the law and college
policies and proce-
dures. FRCC facili-
tates the flow of
posted information on bulletin boards by designating time,
place and manner, but does not regulate content. However,
posted and/or disseminated partisan, political, sectarian or reli-
gious-position materials in no way reflect FRCC‟s endorse-
ment.”
Materials such as these are subject to screening for inflam-
matory content, Smith explains. “Basically, you can post flyers
as long as it‟s not hate speech or speech that is violent, or could
cause violence or harm, or threatens the potential of violence or
harm towards anyone,” she says. But because “FRCC is con-
sidered non-public space deemed by law, we have the ability to
really put priorities around our time, place and manner.”
So, flyers and other forms of solicitation are regulated in
other ways, as well. For instance, all flyers must also be event- larger discussions, networking, and would create a “little niche of
specific, so if the date of the event is not specified, or if the
date has passed, that posting is subject to removal. This would ties in the future, Wriedt states.
have been an additional reason for removal in the case of the
“White Pride Day” flyers, as no date was provided.
Smith recently met with Angie Hungerford, the assistant
legal counsel for the Colorado Community College System,
and discussed First Amendment rights on campus. She says
that, “Everyone is entitled to the right of free speech [under the
First Amendment], but it also should protect me as a passerby.
I should be able to avoid it if I want to. It is not your right to
have your views seen by me, heard by me, or believed by me.”
This is one reason why time, place and manner are espe-
cially important in regards to free speech practices at FRCC.
FRCC has exercised its right to designate certain areas of
the campus as “Free Speech Zones.” However, the two free
speech zones on campus are currently being re-evaluated be-
4
cause these zones are currently located in high-traffic areas that
limit the FRCC community‟s opportunity to either receive or
ignore the messages posted there.
FRCC can also, in two different ways, restrict the time
during which free speech can be practiced. Currently, the college
requires 48 hours‟ advance notice before an individual or group
can exercise free speech on campus in an approved zone. The
college also schedules them to a time slot from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.,
Monday through Friday, or from 4 to 8 p.m. Monday through
Thursday.
In addition to these regulations, any individual or
group wanting to practice free speech on campus
must adhere to all other legal guidelines at FRCC,
including the Student Code of Conduct. FRCC has
the right to regulate how the speech is conveyed,
and so it can restrict the use of artificial noisemak-
ers, such as megaphones and stereos, and even limit
shouting and yelling.
“We have a duty not to allow the disruption of the
educational processes,” Smith says.
However, the college must continually attempt to
reconcile its policies and guidelines with the First
Amendment rights of its many members, as well as
those rights of the public. FRCC‟s guidelines and
policies, as at other institutions, can only serve as a
template that attempts to address each unique free-speech chal-
lenge as it arises, and are subject to nearly constant and inevitable
reform.
If you have any questions regarding your First Amendment
rights on campus, contact Erin Smith, director of Student Life, at
her office in the Longs Peak Student Center. “I love working with
students,” she says. You can also reach her at
Erin.Smith@FrontRange.edu. ®
(PSYCH CLUB Continued from page 16)
Outside of heavier advertising, both Wriedt and Goeke agreed that
they would like the club to collaborate with the CSU and UNC Psy-
chology Clubs for events and meetings. Doing so would allow for
their own,” for FRCC club members transferring to those universi-
The FRCC Psychology Club meets every Thursday between 1
and 2 p.m. in the Longs Peak Student Center. Keep a watchful eye
for flyers posted around campus.
“Come and check it out. You never know what you like until
you try,” Atwood states. ®
F ROM HS TO FRCC: C REATING F UTURES
BY D ENISE M ARSHALL , R ANGEVIEW R EPORTER
The Front Range community has recently instituted a program
to recruit local high school students to attend FRCC. The Create-A-
Future Scholarship Campaign raises money for partial and full tui-
tion. Coordinator and FRCC vice president of the Larimer campus,
Dr. Jim Butzek, calls it a “friend-raiser,” helping students with their
college plans. (Continued on page 5)
 5

(TYLER Continued from page 1) “I didn‟t have to motivate Tyler to practice walking. He al-
ways just wanted to do it, so I would help him,” said Kyle.
The event started with a 15-minute Fox 31 news video of the
Being athletes all through high school, Carron and Landeros
night of the accident, and a follow-up of their recovery. Then
weren‟t about to give up being active in sports. They tried hockey
they answered questions from the audience. They were very
and water sports such as wakeboarding and inner-tubing. They still
upbeat and often joked with each other.
wrestle around with each other, and will soon receive their running
Carron was in the hospital for one month and underwent legs.
about a dozen surgeries. The hospital bills were skyrocketing
They have been interviewed 20 to 30 times since their acci-
but, thanks to the Berthoud community, fund-raisers and many
dent. “It was kind of cool at first, but then it started getting annoy-
other generous donations, about
ing. [The media]
$100,000 was raised to help pay
would just show
the boys‟ expenses. They have
up at places,”
received their prosthetic legs,
Carron stated.
which must be replaced every five
to six years, and which cost After only five
around $55,000 each. months after the
accident, he was
Carron and Landeros at-
able to walk
tended physical therapy from the
across the stage
first week after getting out of the
at his high school
hospital to the end of the summer.
graduation. His
Physical therapists guided them
family and
through their recovery. One led
friends in the
them as they worked out three
stands wore
times a week, and another taught
shirts saying
them how to use their new legs.
“Walking into
During the first month, they
the Future” on
started with shorter legs that were
the front, and a
stiff and didn‟t bend, then moved
picture of Carron
on to the longer prosthetic legs.
wearing his new
“We walked up stairs, curbs, legs on the back.
and slants, which was very hard…
There were also
You are higher up, so it makes it
Tyler Carron chats with friends Samantha Anderson and John Ritter between several reporters
tougher,” Carron stated.
classes outside of Mount Antero. who attended the
Carron‟s older brother Kyle, Photo by Jill Prenger graduation.
20, attended most of his physical “Right after, it
therapy appointments and also helped. “[The physical thera- was like they all swarmed me, but I just wanted to go have fun
pist] let me walk in front of him and hold onto him so he didn‟t with my fellow students,” Carron said.
fall,” Kyle said.
He chose to further his education at Front Range and says he
“I come from a big family and we are all really close. enjoys it because “it‟s small, so I can walk easy, and the classes
They are always there for me,” Tyler stated. are small so the teacher knows you and can help you more often.”
“Our family has always been close, but this definitely The young men and their families plan on helping other am-
brought us closer,” Kyle said. “I stay positive in everything he putees, and holding fund-raisers to help them pay their expenses.
does, and tell him to wear his legs as much as he can so he can
When asked during their recent talk, “What can other people
get used to them,” Kyle stated.
learn from you?” the boys took a second to think. “Just appreciate
“The biggest challenge [was] learning how to balance and everything you have,” Landeros stated. “You know, people com-
walk again,” Carron said. plain about having to run in P.E., but we wish we still could…All
kids think they are invincible and don‟t think anything bad is go-
(FUTURES Continued from page 4) ing to happen to them, but it does, so you just have to deal with it.”
“It‟s a scholarship made to zero in on high schools,” added “Just appreciate life,” answered Carron. “I look at it differ-
Rich Harter, chairman of the Foundation Advisory Board. He ently now. I love it more, and don‟t let the small things make me
also teaches the Industry Marketing at FRCC. Harter has two mad.”
children. His 22-year-old son attended FRCC for his first two
years of college and graduated from Colorado State University. After numerous days of sweat and tears, Carron and Landeros
His daughter, 19 years old, also attended FRCC. claim their lives are similar to before their accident. “We are the
A campaign meeting was held on Oct. 26 to discuss devel- same people, but with a brand new lifestyle,” Carron said. “I just
opments, and ways to create the scholarships. “We reach people look at life differently, and appreciate more.” ®
and businesses in the community to help with the scholarships,”
Harter explained. (Continued on page 7)
 6

S ERVING THE S TUDENTS

time cards, and they are paid every two weeks.

W ELCOME TO THE W ORKING
There are restrictions students must follow in order to
W EEK : FRCC’ S W ORK S TUDY maintain their Work Study eligibility. They must be enrolled
P ROGRAM in at least six credits a semester. They cannot work more than
20 hours a week, and they may not earn more than their
BY T RENT S AWYER , R ANGEVIEW R EPORTER awarded amount.
Brittany Ellsworth, 24, is a Work Study employee at the
When getting directions to a class, or a bite to eat, or even Front Range Bookstore. This is her first semester at Front
buying a book, it is impossible to avoid at least one of these Range and she has been working there about a month.
people. Any student who attends Front Range Community
College has encountered one, or is one. What group of
people could possibly have that much effect on the
student population? Those in the FRCC Work Study
Program, of course.
The Work Study Program is an opportunity for
students to earn money while attending FRCC. These
are jobs on campus that are only open to students. The
Financial Aid Office, located in Mount Antero, han-
dles the Work Study Program. Because Work Study is
awarded to students receiving financial aid, there are
some hurdles to jump before one can get an on-
campus job.
Mae Lee Heble is a Financial Aid counselor and
the Work Study coordinator. Heble meets with many
Work Study employees individually for a workers
orientation. While attending school, Heble was a
Work Study employee herself at FRCC, as well as at
CSU. Heble calls the Work Study Program “a resume-
builder” and a “great asset” to Front Range. There are FRCC Bookstore cashier and Work Study employee Brittany Ells-
more than 140 students in the Work Study Program. worth assists customer Sarah Cohen with a purchase.
“Students often learn more about higher education [by
being a part of Work Study] than if they did not work Photo by Rebecca Morehouse
here,” she claims.
After completing the FAFSA (Free Application for Fed-
Ellsworth applied for Work Study when school started.
eral Student Aid) paperwork, interested students must then
By that time, many positions were already filled and she was
receive an eligibility award for Work Study. This award des-
unable to find a job until recently. It is advisable to apply for
ignates how much money a student can earn. Recipients of an
jobs early, “otherwise, there's nothing left,” Ellsworth claims.
award receive this only if there is funding available. This
She had no difficulty getting an award for Work Study. “It‟s
award lasts for the entire regular academic year, both fall and
worth it,” she said. The hardest part was getting the job itself.
spring semesters. After receiving an award, students must
apply for a job on campus. After she found a Work Study position, Ellsworth was
working within a week‟s time. She enjoys her job, saying, “I
Many of the job openings on campus are posted on a bul-
like being able to help people…It's not really that hard of
letin board across from the Financial Aid Office window. Job
work.” She is a cashier and also helps people find books, pa-
listings can also be found on www.FrontRange.edu. There is
per, etc. Of the pay, she says, “It's not much, but it helps
a wide range of positions available, such as a teacher‟s assis-
tant, working in Food services, or working in the deans‟ of- Because FAFSA is required for Work Study, it is impor-
fice. Job applicants must provide a Social Security card and tant to fill this paperwork out as soon as one can. For the 2008
undergo a criminal background check, then attend a Work -2009 school year, students can apply for FAFSA as early as
Study employee orientation. After all that, students simply Jan. 1, but no later than March 1. For more information about
have to complete all required paperwork, pass the background the Work Study Program, visit the Financial Aid Office, or
check, and have their supervisor receive approval from the contact them at 204-8376 or at LCFinAid@FrontRange.edu.
Financial Aid Office for eligibility. Then students can start
working. Each week, student-employees must fill out their ®
 7
S ERVING THE S TUDENTS
D ON ’ T G O IT A LONE : FRCC’ S
S INGLE P ARENT P ROGRAM
BY A SHLEY B AILEY , R ANGEVIEW R EPORTER
Waking up with school, work and relationships on one‟s mind
can be stressful. Some students at FRCC are running around
stressing about all that, and more. They have to take care of their
children as well, and some are doing it alone. The Single Parent
Program is available on campus for any single parent who is en-
rolled at FRCC, whether it‟s someone like Joey Simental, 40,
with a son, 11, who enjoys the networking that the program of-
fers, or someone who is need of financial guidance.
Denise Pearson, 29, is a counselor for the Single Parent Pro-
gram and has been filling in for Sheryl Harrell, program coordi-
nator. Pearson received her bachelor‟s degree in psychology from
UCLA and her Master of Science and Education from Indiana
University. Harrell and Pearson provide one-on-one sessions with
many single parents. The program currently has about 110 stu-
dents.
“I am meeting with students who are in the program to talk
about what‟s going on in their lives, and to help them overcome
any barriers that they might have,” explains Pearson.
Some barriers that single parents come across include paying
for childcare or finding housing. The program provides free per-
sonalized academic advising, as well. If students need something
more than the Single Parent Program has to offer, they‟re referred
to different campus support services, such as financial aid and
scholarships they might qualify for. The program does, however,
provide financial budget strategies and other similar life plans.
Counselors also help students find what they need in the commu-
nity such as daycare, healthcare, housing, and other community
resources.
“What we try to do is support single parents so they‟re able to
accomplish whatever their goals might be,” says Pearson. The
steps to become involved in the Single Parent Program are
straightforward. Pearson says that, “If a student‟s interested in the
program, the first step they‟ll take is make an appointment to
meet with a counselor of the program, that would be myself or
Sheryl, and learn more about the program…Once they are en-
rolled, then they will be formally a part of the program and com-
plete an agreement.” The agreement covers responsibilities of the
participant and the counselor, as well as the expectations of both
parties.
He says it was easy it was to become involved in the program.
He already holds a degree, but he had a change of heart and is
working on getting a finance degree, and then will proceed to law
school. He has been in the program for one year, since starting at
FRCC. Simental enjoys a lot of the workshops and seminars that
the program has to offer, and his son often attends them with him.
“I go to all their workshops, I‟m on the panel,” he says.
The first workshop offered is an orientation for all the new
program participants.
“One of our goals is to bring them together because we want
them to connect with other single-parent students who are at
Front Range, and help them find support,” says Pearson.
There is usually a guest speaker invited to talk about things
like time-management and study skills. Simantel serves on a
panel himself, as one of the parents in the program. He and other
members of the panel talk about the challenges they face and
how they overcome them.
“It‟s just nice to get involved,” he says. Simantel says that
his biggest success in the program is being available, and help-
ing his fellow single parents at FRCC.
After the orientation, many other activities follow, such as a
school supply drive, organized by the counselors and aimed at
helping students in the program acquire school supplies for their
children. The participants submit the names of their children and
the grades they‟re entering. The employees of FRCC can then
donate money and/or school supplies.
Harrell also arranges presents to be donated at Christmas-
time to the families of the Single Parent Program. Those who
want or need support for the holidays can submit a list of their
family members‟ names and what they want for Christmas.
“The function served is extremely invaluable to those that
really it,” says Simantel.
Going to school, working and raising children are not only
challenging, but expensive. The Single Parent Program informs
students about the childcare scholarships that are granted by the
community by organizations such as WomenGive. There are
also limited childcare stipends awarded by the program that stu-
dents can apply for after being in the program for at least one
semester.
The Single Parent Program has been functioning since 1980
and is one of the longest standing single-parent programs in
Colorado. Both Pearson and Harrell are concerned with helping
the parents successfully support their families while they attend
school. “[We] really seek to empower the students in the pro-
gram,” says Pearson.
To get involved, contact Sheryl Harrell at 204-8369 or De-
nise Pearson at 204-8305, or visit their Website at
www.frontrange.edu/lcsingleparent.com. The Single Parent Pro-
gram‟s office is located in the Advising, Career and Counseling
Center in Mount Antero, Room 109. ®
(FUTURES Continued from page 5)
Dr. Butzek has a daughter, 21 years old, who attended
FRCC for her first two years of college and then transferred to
the University of Colorado. “The real kick-off [for the Future
Scholarship Campaign] is Friends in Harmony,” explains
Butzek. “We identify potential donors and get other people to
come in,” he added.
Friends in Harmony also sponsors a silent auction, raising
between $25,000 and $30,000.
(Continued on page 9)
 8
S ERVING THE S TUDENTS
B RIDGE TO Y OUR F UTURE :
F RONT R ANGE C ONNECT
BY L ANDREE M AC L ENNAN , R ANGEVIEW R EPORTER
Front Range Community College offers many different
resources, including one that no student should pass up. Front
Range Connect will help any student find a job or internship
in their area of interest, and it takes less than ten minutes to
register.
Front Range Connect is designed to help students find
jobs and internships related to a particular major, or just to
earn some money. Front Range Connect is available to all
Front Range students at all campuses, as well as alumni.
Sue Brooks has worked in Career Services at Front Range
since 1990 and is a career counselor. She helped develop
FRCC Connect in July 2006. “I build relationships with em-
ployers to students,” said Brooks. She is trying to recruit as
many students as possible to use the system and is getting in
touch with many employers to provide a wide variety of job
postings. She finds that employers are frequently looking to
hire students out of a two-year program.
It‟s not just about looking for your dream job, though;
students can apply for any available job. Another convenient
aspect of Front Range Connect is that students doing online
searches can save their searches and re-access them at any
time. Students can also receive email alerts when new jobs are
entered into the system.
Not only is FRCC Connect a convenient way to search
for jobs, but it is also easy to register. Start at FRCC‟s home-
page and follow the step-by-step instructions to get into the
system. If needed, read the Student Guide to help start the
search.
“I want students to know that by registering with Front
Range Connect, their likelihood of finding a job is much eas-
ier than searching in newspapers,” Brooks stated.
There are hundreds of jobs to view, and are all available
to any student. Almost 50 percent of the jobs posted are in the
Fort Collins area. Ten percent are located in Loveland, 35
percent in Northern Colorado, and 5 percent are out of state.
There are many more jobs available in Fort Collins because
Brooks is always busy contacting more employers in this area
than the counselors at the other campuses, mainly because it is
new to everyone.
When applying for a job online, most employers ask for a
resume. Don‟t have a resume? Teresina Davie in Career Ser-
vices can help students create a complete resume. Davie will
provide a resume outline for the student to fill out, then will
critique it and will suggest changes for improvement to make
it the best it can be. She also goes into classrooms to talk
about services she can provide for students, and is in the proc-
ess of purchasing software that students can also use to help
create their perfect resume. Once the resume is complete, all
the student has to do is upload the file from their Word docu-
ment and send it with their application.
“Jane Doe” (not her real name), 52, is an alumna of Front
Range where she earned her associate of arts degree. Doe
transferred to Colorado State University where she is now
studying liberal arts. She heard that Brooks was going to be
working on a job search system and also saw flyers around
campus, so she decided to check it out and register.
“It‟s easy,” she said. “You can do it at home, or on any
computer, and it‟s very easy to upload your resume just using
your Word document.” She graduates in December and has
been working on creating her resume, so she has not applied
for a job yet. “I would use it again, especially because I have-
n‟t really used it yet, but have been using it as research,” she
stated.
Work Study student Dani Johnston updates job data
in Front Range Connect.
Photo by Landree MacLennan
Many of the jobs posted on Front Range Connect are
linked to the individual employer‟s official Website that can
also be viewed for more information before applying for the
job. Most job ads state what the position entails, and whether it
is full-time or part-time, or a paid or unpaid internship. There
is an advanced search page where one can enter in the city,
position type, one‟s major and other special skills one may
have.
“It‟s very helpful. It‟s good to see what‟s out there, and
you can sort and narrow your search,” Doe stated.
Currently, there are only 867 students registered in the
Front Range Connect system, and many jobs to apply for. It‟s
easy, fast, and convenient for all Front Range students and
alums.
“I think it‟s a good resource, it‟s open to alumni and
[current] students…I would very highly suggest it to other
students. Everybody should sign up,” said Doe.
For more information, visit www.FrontRange.edu/Connect. ®
 9
S ERVING THE S TUDENTS
M AJOR P ROBLEM , S IMPLE S OLUTION :
A DVISING , C AREER AND
C OUNSELING C ENTER
BY K ATE E LISHA , R ANGEVIEW R EPORTER
Like most young children, FRCC freshman, Michael Boyles,
now18, knew just what he was going to be when he grew up. “I
wanted to be a jet pilot and storm across the sky at the speed of
sound!” But as Boyles grew up and changed, so, too, did his plans
for the future. Boyles entered FRCC last August and, like many
other freshmen, was nervous and unsure in which academic direc-
tion to go.
“I had no idea how many credits I needed, or what classes
would be transferable…or which classes I should take,” he said.
With these questions in tow, Boyles headed to FRCC‟s Advising,
Career and Counseling Center.
Located in Mount Antero, the Advising, Career and Counsel-
ing Center offers students access to academic and career advisors
who can help them with anything from choosing appropriate
courses to exploring career opportunities.
FRCC Career Counselor Teresina Davie, 33, understands the
stress and confusion that can go into choosing a major, or even
what courses to take. “I was one of those students who took my
generals [and] thought everybody needed college algebra. I took it,
failed it the first time… took it again and passed it, thank good-
ness,” she said. “When I got to the four-year school and decided
on the major of human services counseling, I found out I needed
statistics!”
To avoid this situation, Davie encourages students to explore
possible majors and career paths early on. By making an early
decision, students can avoid spending unnecessary time and
money on classes that are not required.
However, Davie stresses that it is OK to come to college with-
out the future being perfectly planned out. “Even if you know
somebody that says, „I know exactly what I want to do,‟ talk to
them in four years, and see if they are still doing that.”
For those who don‟t know exactly what they want to do, the
Advising Center is a helpful resource for exploring the vast array
of opportunities. “I don‟t think a lot of students take the time to
really research themselves and the jobs that are really out there.
It‟s a daunting task…So, at least if they come and see me, I can
get them started,” says Davie.
When students meet with a career advisor, they have the op-
portunity to do some career exploration through self-assessment
and career inventories, “to help them get a better idea of their per-
sonality, interest, values, [and] motivation,” explains Davie. The
advisor can provide students with specific career Websites and
help them schedule meetings or “job shadows” with someone in a
field that interests them. Students seeking employment can receive
help with writing resumes and cover letters, and tips on interview
skills. The Advising Center also posts more than 300 jobs listings
on Front Range Connect specifically for students at FRCC.
Like most students who visit the Academic Advising
Center, Boyles left with a sense of direction and a new ex-
citement for the future. He says he now dreams of helping
people, much like his advisor helped him. “I want to become
a school counselor to help kids in need of guidance.” Boyles
strongly encourages his fellow students to meet with an advi-
sor. “Go see an advisor if you have any questions, worries, or
need to clear your mind of any problem.”
Davie urges students to seek advising as soon as possi-
ble to avoid peak times. “Right before registration and the
week after registration…you can wait up to 45 minutes!
Take advantage of the free services. [There is] a fee for ca-
reer counseling outside of higher education,” she insists.
“Figure out what you want to do, and [don‟t] make a deci-
sion based on friends and family, but what is suitable for
you.”
The Academic Advising Center has daily drop-in hours
when students can meet with an on-duty advisor. Students
can also call 204-8305 or make an appointment at the Infor-
mation Desk in Mount Antero. Students can also visit
www.FrontRange.edu/majors to find links to majors and
their possible careers paths. ®
Student Kevin Simonton discusses his curriculum with
Career Counselor Teresina Davie.
Photo by Nick Sutphin
(FUTURES Continued from page 7)
There are 11 high schools in the Larimer county district.
The goal is to reach out to all 50 high schools in the college-
wide district, covering Westminster, Brighton and Boulder,
to help one student from each high school with a scholarship
to attend FRCC. High school students can obtain applica-
tions from their school counselors, which are due March 1.
Rocky Mountain High School and Fort Collins High
School were the first to receive scholarships.
(Continued on page 12)
 10
S ERVING THE S TUDENTS
S ERENITY N OW !
C OUNSELING S ERVICES AT FRCC
BY A SHLEY B AILEY , R ANGEVIEW R EPORTER
With the constant stress of school and the persistent obli-
gation to study for each class, pressures may become over-
whelming, especially when there are other stressors in your
life.
Dr. Tim Beecher explains that, “Stress can be multilay-
ered. It could be stress from relationships, family, studying.”
Beecher, 33, is an academic advisor and personal counseling
specialist at FRCC‟s Advising, Career and Counseling Center.
He earned his master‟s degree at Washington State University,
and his Ph.D. at the University of North Dakota. Beecher has
been working at FRCC since August. He is also the disabilities
liaison. Students who are receiving services from the Learning
Opportunity Center can see him for academic advising.
Beecher and two part-time personal counselors conduct
individual counseling and group therapy sessions on campus.
“It‟s basically a ser-
vice to help students
that are in distress that
might be impacting
their school work, or
basically just their
everyday lives,” he
says. This service is
free of charge and is
based on how many
sessions one needs. He
states that, “Most peo-
ple are going to only
come four [sessions]
and get their needs met Dr. Tim Beecher
that way.” Photo by Kate Elisha
Their offices are open during normal campus hours, so
they are not available 24 hours like some other crisis manage-
ment centers. “We‟re focusing more on short-term goals rather
than ongoing counseling,” Beecher says. He adds that, “While
we have a short-term focus, as long as people are continuing to
work and get needs met and be productive, then we‟ll continue
counseling them.” If he feels that someone would be better
served elsewhere for various reasons, then he will refer him or
her to a more appropriate counseling provider.
“In addition to one-on-one therapy, or stress management
counseling…we also do learning disability screening,” Beecher
says. The actual tests for assessing learning disabilities can be
very expensive. To save time and money, the screening is a
short clinical interview.
“We‟ll do just kind of a brief intake with them to deter-
mine if it seems likely that they might have a learning disabil-
ity, and that they would benefit from going through the formal
assessments…So we‟ll just ask them some of the basic ques-
tions through a clinical interview to determine if there‟s possi-
bility that they fit the criteria,” he explains.
Before the first individual counseling session, Beecher or
his colleagues will complete a 45-minute intake interview. This
allows Beecher and his staff to correctly identify needs and the
methods for counseling. It is crucial for those seeking support
to be open and honest in these interviews.
Beecher says that research shows that there are three main
factors that should be balanced in order to achieve happiness.
Theses three factors are healthy school and work balance, rela-
tionships, and leisure time. While going to school, trying to
earn a living, and maintaining relationships, these areas can
easily become unstable. “Personal counseling can definitely
help you get that stuff back into balance,” he says.
Counseling Services also offer group therapy sessions.
“The group [therapy] is for anyone looking to improve personal
relationships,” Beecher explains. Personal relationships can be
those with colleagues, friends, and classmates, family or of the
romantic kind. Beecher says that, “Anything can fall into that
because, let‟s say if you‟re anxious, then that will negatively
impact relationships. If you‟re depressed, that will impact rela-
tionships. If you‟re stressed out, that also will impact relation-
ships.”
There are also many diverse personality types, and it is
difficult to learn how to relate to someone who has the opposite
personality. Beecher explains that, growing up, “We were
given a certain set of instructions and rules on how to interact
with people, and sometimes that wasn‟t the whole instruction
book…So we need more things to get along with people…
more and better ways of getting along with people.” Group
therapy can help with learning how to achieve healthy relation-
ships.
Different personality types are seen all throughout college
life and, at times, it is difficult to deal with. There are two ways
that the group therapy tackles relationship issues. “Learning at
the college level, one thing that is critical is to be more self-
aware in how we want to get our goals met in life,” states
Beecher. During a group therapy session, feedback is encour-
aged and viewed as positive. A caregiver, for example may not
even realize their behavior may be problematic. They may re-
ceive feedback and can then begin to work on that issue. The
second way that group therapy works is by allowing the mem-
ber to try new things in a safe environment. For example, peo-
ple who are really shy would have the opportunity to break out
of their shells in a supportive environment.
“These services are definitely for anybody looking to ex-
plore any kind of self-awareness stuff, personal growth, [or]
working on meeting their goals in more effective ways, and
especially for folks looking to improve relationships,” adds
Beecher. His office is in Mount Antero in the Advising, Career
and Counseling Center, room 113. To make an appointment
with him, call 204-8211. ®
 11
S CHOLARS ’ S QUARE
I T ’ S AN H ONOR :
FRCC’ S N EW H ONORS I NSTITUTE
BY N ICK S UTPHIN , R ANGEVIEW R EPORTER
This fall, Front Range Community College rolled out a new
program which allows students with a desire to get more out of
their education the opportunity to embrace their schooling to its
fullest potential. Focusing on students who wish to fully partici-
pate in classes, and go above and beyond what is typically ex-
pected, the Honors Institute is designed to allow more interaction
between students and faculty. Honors programs are not new to
universities, but the program at FRCC is the first among commu-
nity colleges in Colorado.
Faculty at FRCC have been working for four years to get the
Honors Institute up and running. As a collaborative effort by a
group of dedicated professionals, the Honors Institute is the result
of a lot of time and effort, but the program‟s future is entirely in
the hands of students.
Eric Salahub, 39, is the head of the Philosophy Department
and a full-time faculty member teaching one of the first Honors
courses offered at FRCC. His Ethics 112 is a class that presents all
the standard material of a regular ethics course, but emphasizes
student discussion and interaction. At the center of the course are
students who want to participate actively in a dialogue about the
subject matter. Salahub approaches this class in a way that gives
students the chance to guide the direction of the material, and he
tailors assignments and conversations to the level of student in-
volvement.
He‟s excited to be a part of the team that is laying the ground-
work for this program. “We love teaching. We love students. We
want to give students the ability to take it up a notch,” he says.
He also describes the potential for what is being called the
Learning Community as a part of the future of the Honors Insti-
tute. A Learning Community class is essentially a collaborative
effort between two instructors working within their respective
classes. For example, an Honors student may sign up for English
122 and Philosophy 112, and complete assignments that accom-
plish goals relevant to both classes. The skills of writing an argu-
mentative essay in English 122 would be applied to a topic of ethi-
cal concern for the philosophy class in order to meet two objec-
tives at once. An Honors student in a Learning Community course
is able to work directly with two instructors to maximize the effi-
ciency of learning. Salahub hopes to synthesize the coursework
and “integrate the learning objective.”
Applying to become an Honors student is simple. Hopefuls
need only pick up an application available at the Information Desk
in Mount Antero and return it to Dr. Rosemarie Russo, Dean of
Instruction and head of the Honors Institute. In addition to com-
pleting the application, students are required to submit a short es-
say detailing why they think they would be a good candidate for
the Honors Institute.
After being accepted into the program, students are re-
quired to maintain a 3.5 GPA in their Honors curriculum to
receive their Honors certificate. Honors classes are noted as
such on official transcripts and contribute greatly to an aca-
demic resume.
Dr. Rosemarie Russo, Dean of
Instruction and head of FRCC’s
Honors Institute
Photo by Mary Leek
When it comes to education, Dr. Russo may come across
as something of a radical. With a lively presence and high-
pitched enthusiasm in her voice, Dr. Russo explains that she
pushed to have no GPA requirements on the Honors applica-
tion. Instead, applicants are judged based on their level of moti-
vation, potential for success, and their creativity.
Students seeking to be surrounded by others who are
equally dedicated to their education are encouraged to partici-
pate in the Honors Institute. It provides a forum in which stu-
dents can take advantage of additional time with faculty, and
analyze topics from a variety of perspectives to see how they
relate. Dr. Russo insists that students “need to make your edu-
cation work for you.”
Kat Carver, 27, is an FRCC Honors student. She enjoys
Honors courses because she finds it refreshing to be able to
express her opinions freely. Carver asserts, “Education is my
first priority,” and she believes that being a part of the Honors
Institute will look good on her college transcripts.
Carver doesn‟t think the classes are too hard, and believes
that students may put up barriers when considering whether to
submit an application. She encourages students to join the Hon-
ors Institute “if they seek… intellectual stimulation.”
The program was also started to help remove the stigma
often associated with community colleges. Instead of being
seen as a school for those who were not accepted to four-year
universities, FRCC hopes to raise its level of academic involve-
ment to demonstrate that students who want the most out of
their education can achieve their goals at a college that is both
affordable and convenient.
Dr. Russo affirms, “We know we have highly prepared
academic students.” They are the future of the Honors Institute.
®
 12

S CHOLARS ’ S QUARE
When studying political science, there are many different
E VERYBODY W ANTS TO R ULE THE subfields involved with the major, such as Public Administra-
W ORLD : P OLITICAL S CIENCE tion, American Politics, Comparative Government, Interna-
tional Relations and Political Theory. The field of study or
BY A SHLEY S TORM , R ANGEVIEW R EPORTER concentration helps determine the kinds of job that open to a
student after graduating with a degree.
Choosing a major can be very difficult process. You have to “Four-year Colorado schools have above-average depart-
dig deep and figure out what you really love to do and how you ments at their schools,” Drew says. After the first four years
can turn that into a career. Some know right away, while others of college, many go on for an M.A or Ph.D. Drew calls it a
struggle to decide. Does studying the processes, principles and “track degree.”
structures of political institutions sound good to you? If so, you
may be meant to be a political science major. Jobs are available in government, the military and in aca-
demia. Some graduates go into teaching and many go into
Front Range‟s Political Science Department is staffed by law. The U.S. government offers many jobs for graduates with
three faculty members, and the head of the Political Science De- a political science degree. Another option, which is very
partment is Jeff Borg. The department offers six to seven classes popular, is to become a consultant for a major company. Gov.
each semester. This semester, the department offered: Intro to Bill Ritter graduated from Colorado State University with a
Political Science; American Government; International Relations; degree in political science. Democratic presidential candidate
Current Political Issues; The American Presidency; Public Fi- Barack Obama has a degree from Columbia University in
nance; and Community Planning and Development. Each class political science, with a concentration in international affairs.
studies the different aspects of political science, philosophy and (Continued on page 13)
ideology.
Douglas Drew, a political science faculty member, re-
ceived his M.A from San Jose State is working towards his
Ph.D. at Colorado State University. His Into to Political Sci-
ence class is working on a simulation where the class breaks
into three groups and is in charge of running an imaginary
country. The students control the trading, military and gov-
ernment.
American Government studies the U.S Constitution, the
different political parties, the electoral process, and the struc-
ture of the federal government. Current Political Issues stud-
ies current events in today‟s world.
FRCC hosts many guest speakers quite frequently who
speak about international affairs. Most recently, on Nov. 2,
Jacqueline Muller spoke about “Women in Palestine” and
their daily lives. Many people attended both the noon session
and the second talk.
The Department of Political Science will also hold cau-
cus meetings on the evening of Tuesday, Feb. 5, where peo- Instructor Douglas Drew uses a SmartBoard to illustrate a lesson to
ple who attend will express their preferences for presidential his Intro to Political Science class.
candidates and where delegates to future conventions will be Photo by Ashley Storm
selected on that basis. People wanting to participate in the
event will have to be registered to vote at their current legal ad- (FUTURES Continued from page 9)
dresses by Dec. 5. Therese and Orrie Loeffler-Clemens have been a part of
Anne Garran, a second-year student enrolled in Intro to Po- the Future Scholarship Campaign since it began about a year
litical Science with Drew, decided on the class “because I wasn‟t ago. They have claimed Fort Collins High School as their pri-
familiar with the theorists and aspects of political science. I mary donation recipient. Loeffler-Clemens is from Boulder and
wanted to expand my knowledge of topics such as international earned her master‟s degree in administration and English from
relations, early theorists, terrorism, etc.,” she says. the University of Colorado. She has worked at FRCC since
1992 as a developmental studies instructor, teaching writing
“I enjoy my teacher, Drew, very much,” she continues, classes for students who are not yet prepared for transfer
“What I like most about him is that he isn‟t forceful when he classes. She and her husband have two children, and their
teaches. He lets you determine your opinions and your own deci- youngest attended Fort Collins High School. She worked with
sions about what we are learning. I also like how he uses exam-
ples that his students can relate to.” (Continued on page 19)

S CHOLARS ’ S QUARE
V ENUS AND M ARS ARE A LL R IGHT
T ONIGHT : A STRONOMY AT FRCC
BY J ILL P RENGER , R ANGEVIEW R EPORTER
Making clouds during class, and gazing at the stars and plan- rently enrolled in Smith‟s Astronomy 101 class. “I take this
ets are just a few of the experiences FRCC students can expect
from an astronomy class.
The Natural Applied and Environmental Sciences (NEAS)
Department encompasses all of the FRCC science classes, includ- stated. “I never knew technically why we had seasons, and now
ing astronomy. The astronomy classes are four credit hours and
fill core science and lab science credits. Astronomy 101 and 102 stated, “It‟s awesome. It makes the class that much better. We
are transferable to four-year colleges in Colorado.
The classes offered in the area of astronomy are Astronomy
101, 102 and 285. Astronomy 101 is an introduction to astron-
omy and the solar system. This class focuses on phenomena and
motions of the sky, such as the contents of the solar system, and
the seasons. Astronomy 101 is also offered online. Astronomy
102 studies the structure and life cycle of the stars, the sun, galax-
ies, and the universe itself.
Astronomy 285 is an Independent Study course. A student
taking Independent Study meets with an instructor and together
they decide what areas of astronomy to focus on. Students inter-
ested in an Independent Study should contact Mike Smith, lead
instructor, whose office is located on the second floor of Chal-
lenger Point.
All of the astronomy classes include lab experience. FRCC
utilizes the Stargazer Observatory, located in Observatory Vil-
lage, for astronomy labs. Some of the labs involve identification
of constellations, the moon and planets. “We do a variety of dif-
ferent labs in class and at the observatory,” stated Smith.
13
Teaching Assistant Nick Lenk checks the Celestron
telescope at the Stargazer Observatory.
Photo by Jill Prenger
The Observatory Village opened the Stargazer Obser-
vatory in 2003. Prior to using the observatory, the astron-
omy students used their telescopes outside of Challenger
Point for their classes and labs. The observatory has al-
lowed students to view and learn more first-hand. Accord-
ing to the Village Homes, builder of the observatory, the
Stargazer Observatory “has been said to close the gap be-
tween earth and outer space.”
The observatory has a 14-inch Celestron C-14 tele-
scope and Bisque Paramount ME mounting system, which
are computerized to track activity in the night skies. Visi-
tors may also set up their own telescopes on its viewing
balcony. FRCC, in exchange for its use and minimal rent,
runs the observatory along with the help of teaching assis-
tants from CSU, and also provides equipment, such as
computers and telescopes. The Stargazer Observatory is
opened to FRCC students for labs Monday through Thurs-
day from 9:30 to 11:30 p.m., if skies are clear. The observa-
tory is also open to the public every third Sunday of the month.
When Smith began teaching at FRCC in 1999, there were
only four astronomy classes offered. In Spring 2008, there will
be 12 classes, including the online class.
Tom McLellan is a full-time student at FRCC and is cur-
class because I wanna take astronomy,” he said. “I think it‟s
important to take this class because you learn not only about
the whole universe, but also the earth, where we live,” he
I do.” Explaining the benefits of the observatory, McLellan
talk about it, then are able to go look at it with our own eyes.”
There are a few upcoming events occurring in the sky that
anyone can enjoy. During the month of December, the Gem-
inid Meteor Shower will grace the sky. The optimal nights for
viewing are Dec. 13 and 14 from evening to morning. Also
during December, Mars will be visible just after twilight, and
will not be as close to Earth again until 2016. Venus and Sat-
urn will be most visible during the second week of December,
with Saturn located to the upper-left of Venus, and setting be-
fore midnight.
Stargazer Observatory is located on Galileo Drive off of
Lady Moon Drive, just west of the I-25 on-ramp from east Har-
mony Road. ®
(Poli Sci Continued from page 12)
Studying American and international government can be
very useful these days with everything going on, such as the
wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, the upcoming elections, and
current events. Graduates go on to careers in government,
military and education. ®

S CHOLARS ’ S QUARE
P HILOSOPHY
NO P HILISTINE E FFORT
AT FRCC
BY N ICK S UTPHIN , R ANGEVIEW R EPORTER
Ever wondered about the nature of the universe? Ever ques-
tioned the messages being directed at you from every friend,
teacher, broadcaster and lunatic raving in a public forum? If so,
Front Range Community College has a few courses designed to
help you process and understand the world you live in.
The Philosophy Department at FRCC currently offers eight
different courses to give students access to a wide variety of
thought across the ages. The three most popular are Intro to Phi-
losophy, Ethics and Logic, which all transfer to four-year col-
leges and universities in Colorado.
Intro to Philosophy offers students a broad overview of phi-
losophical trends and introduces them to the meaning and meth-
ods of philosophy. In this class, students analyze issues like free
will, determinism, pragmatism and faith.
Ethics presents a diverse collection of readings intended to
shed light on principles and values that exist in our society. Here,
students look into moral and ethical dilemmas to help build an
understanding of how our consciences guide us.
The Logic course emphasizes the development of critical and
creative thinking to encourage independent decision-making and
problem-solving.
There are also courses which examine the world religions
and ethics in the business world.
Jeff Warshaw, 42, is an instructor at FRCC and has been
teaching philosophy classes for nine years. After receiving his
undergraduate and master's degrees in philosophy from the Uni-
versity of Denver, Warshaw ended up teaching at FRCC after
responding to a newspaper ad that read “Philosopher Wanted.”
During his tenure, he has seen the Philosophy Department expand
to meet the demands of students.
Warshaw says he teaches because, “I like to constantly have
my own beliefs challenged.” He thinks students bring a lot to the
classroom discussions which force him to do exactly that. But the
road goes both ways. Warshaw adds, "I enjoy pushing people to
think beyond their whiskers." The philosophy classes will give
the most to students who approach them with an open mind. Ac-
cording to Warshaw, "Skepticism is essential." He wants students
to “question what they're told,” and apply that approach to all
aspects of life.
In the classroom, Warshaw directs students to analyze the
strong points and the weaknesses of philosophers and their argu-
ments. Discussions take place about what works in a particular
argument and what doesn't. This same methodology can be ap-
plied to a student's own thoughts. When someone offers strong
14
constructive criticism to another's beliefs, it encourages the
individual to revise and strengthen their position.
It is a fairly common misconception that a philosophy de-
gree is useless out in the real world. While some believe it's an
endless and circular study of ideas which all amount to naught,
nothing could be further from the truth. Warshaw states with a
clear voice that philosophy is “the seed of education,” and that,
“everything came out of it.”
With a degree in philosophy, a person typically has devel-
oped a set of highly marketable traits which include critical and
analytical thinking, strong writing skills, strong logical and
argumentative abilities and, finally, an understanding of how to
listen critically. Good employers recognize these skills as bene-
ficial to any kind of productive environment. An individual
with a background in philosophy is well suited for careers in
politics, law, business, history and education.
Dennis Hanson, 24, a student in Warshaw's Ethics class,
confidently stated about philosophy, “It's relevant to every-
thing. It's the how and why.” Hanson agreed with Warshaw
that philosophy is essential to having a well rounded under-
standing of the world we live in. When asked if he would rec-
ommend philosophy classes to other students, Hanson said, “I
already have.” ®
I T ’ S E ASY B EING G REEN : FRCC’ S
H ORTICULTURE D EPARTMENT
BY R EBECCA M OREHOUSE , R ANGEVIEW R EPORTER
Enjoy gardening or landscape design? Or maybe you just
like being outdoors. The Horticulture and Landscape Technol-
ogy Department offers all kinds of opportunities and fun ex-
periences.
Keeli Smith, a horticulture and Work Study student at
FRCC, says, “The degree touches a little of everything…soil
science, horticulture, math and economics.”
Like many students, Smith plans to earn her associates
degree in horticulture. She says she hopes to own her own
flower shop one day, stating, “That‟s not for a while, though.”
She smiles as she leans against the only desk in the garden
shed, located just outside Maroon Peak.
Though Smith does not plan on transferring, she says
many students are able to, and do. For now, she spends her
time working on campus. Her Work Study duties include
keeping up the community garden and greenhouse, as well as
organizing the many tools, equipment pieces, and seeds that
cover every wall of the garden shed.
Smith says the only problem is that she just can‟t get
enough hours. “I‟d like to work even more hours… I love
(Continued on page 15)
 15

S CHOLARS ’ S QUARE
(HORTICULTURE Continued from page 14)
Department, teaches the Woody Plants and Landscape Design
classes off campus, in the Spring Creek classroom.
being in the greenhouse.” The department also provides involvement through the
Many horticulture students at Front Range spend the majority Horticulture Club. According to Waltman, both the high school
of their time in the greenhouse which, in Smith‟s opinion, is a and college clubs gives students opportunities to volunteer,
great place to be. The greenhouse supports a variety of plants, network and fund-raise. “It‟s a great way to learn leadership
from different species of cactus to chrysanthemums, as well as a skills and gain more experience,” she says.
small pond, a project completed by the Landscape Design class. “[We] sell vegetables from the garden, and wreaths around
Smith says students in many different classes complete pro- Christmastime,” says Smith, pointing to the abundant FRCC
jects throughout the year. community garden.
“We had to do a soil re- There are endless opportu-
search project and tropical nities provided by the depart-
fruit project,” she said. ment, which can lead to a vari-
Diane Waltman, a full- ety of careers and higher edu-
time instructor for the High cation prospects. Anyone
School Program at FRCC, who‟s simply interested in
and co-program coordina- horticulture or landscape de-
tor for the FRCC Horticul- sign, but is not planning on
ture Department, says, earning a degree, is welcome.
“Students gain experience Smith says, “It‟s a lot of
for what it‟s like in the fun… and it‟s just important to
work force...We‟re always enjoy what‟s being grown.”
working on keeping the
curriculum relevant.” For more information and
to reserve your handmade
She says the students holiday wreath, visit
are able to learn a broad Work Study students Keeli Smith and Ryan Olberding tend to the
www.frontrange.edu or
range of skills. Landscape many plants and flowers that thrive in FRCC’s greenhouse. www.fcgov.com/horticulture.
design, graphing, running Photo by Loren Bayles
equipment, utilizing tools
and sources, working with
plants, working in the greenhouse, and even floral design are
courses of study offered by the department. However, it‟s not just
LUB C H UB
the coursework that provides students with opportunities. Waltman
explains that it goes far beyond the classroom.
S TUDENT E NTREPRENEURS N EEDED
Smith says that before taking college courses, she started in
the high school horticulture program at FRCC. FOR SIFE
“I would definitely recommend the high school program to BY J USTIN B AUER , R ANGEVIEW R EPORTER
anyone… It will definitely move you ahead.”
All students are required to complete an internship. She says Throughout the state of Colorado, universities and col-
that the high school students complete their internships in April, leges are looking to step up their business programs with new
while the college students usually do theirs over the summer. “A opportunities and options for students interested in business
lot of students retain jobs from their internships,” she says. entrepreneurship, finance and economics. Students in Free
Enterprise, or SIFE, is a college-level nonprofit organization
Smith has earned college credit and completed a paid intern- that works in coordination with local businesses to promote
ship at Gulley‟s Greenhouse. ethics and the fundamentals of conducting business and enter-
The FRCC Larimer campus Horticulture Department is also prise. SIFE is active in more than 40 countries across the
involved with the Gardens on Spring Creek. Waltman contributed globe.
to the original design of the gardens and is a former member of its Front Range Community College business leaders and
board of directors. She says, “It‟s is a great place for community faculty are trying to bring SIFE back to the campus again.
involvement and gives many volunteer opportunities.” Larry Lucas, 60, is a business instructor and program director
Other FRCC classes are taught at the Gardens. Instructor Kirk
Fieseler, the other program coordinator for the FRCC Horticulture (Continued on page 16)
 16
C LUB H UB
(SIFE Continued from page 15)
of business at FRCC for the past
three years. “SIFE was invented by Sam
Walton,” Lucas stated. “Wal-Mart is a big
player in Students in Free Enterprise with
funding and regional competitions.”
SIFE emphasizes five main points: analyzing market economics; success
skills in business relationships; entrepreneurship; financial literacy; and business
ethics. Each of these five goals is crucial to the organization.
People involved in SIFE participate in regional competitions that are aimed
at promoting local businesses, and education on the fundamentals of free enter-
prise. Similar to other business clubs, competitions test the general and advanced
knowledge of students participating through real-world scenarios. Competitors
must have a solid strategy to promote their skills and training as leaders in finan-
cial management, market strategies, and long-term leadership. The competitions
are judged by professional business leaders and students can win cash prizes and
scholarships. There are different levels of competitions ranging from the four-
year colleges to two-year colleges such as Front Range. These competitions can
take place around the region or around the world, the most recent being the
SIFE World Cup on Oct. 10 in New York City. The winner of this year’s world
cup was the United States, La Sierra University in California. La Sierra Univer-
sity was the only team from the United States in the finals.
Although one college cannot have more than one team per competition,
FRCC campuses can team up together to compete against other colleges and
universities. This can bring campuses and students together for a wider learning
experience, especially in business.
SIFE mainly operates in industrialized countries including the United
States, western Europe, China and India, and it is gaining popularity in Third
World and developing countries such as Pakistan, and countries in Africa and
South America. Here in Colorado, SIFE is active on many campuses and is look-
ing to get started again here at FRCC’s Larimer Campus. SIFE is active at the
Westminster campus with about 12 students. Any student is welcome to join the
organization.
Jennifer Koza, Conference Coordinator for Student Life, used to be the
club liaison for SIFE. “Here, we are trying to get it started up and partnering
with Westminster,” she said. “SIFE is a community outreach project for the com-
munity. We participate in career fairs and interact with other colleges.”
SIFE has been at FRCC for over seven years but is not as established as at
other schools around the region. The program at FRCC is flexible so that it can
accommodate anyone who is interested in becoming involved.
“I am hopeful that we will have some kind of business club. It may not be
SIFE, but it would be nice to have one here at FRCC,” Lucas said. Anyone inter-
ested in SIFE can contact Jennifer Koza of Student Life at 204-8169. ® Know?” and “The Secret.”
G REY M AT TERS :
FRCC’ S P SYCH C LUB
BY N ATHAN S CHIEFELBEIN , R ANGEVIEW R EPORTER
A white, mushy creation, a little larger than a softball, rests in an unidenti-
fiable liquid. A red substance, also unidentifiable upon first examination, sits
atop the mysterious creation. Lines cover the creation, disappearing and reap-
pearing at random. A man sitting at the table unveils this unknown creation,
retrieves a spoon, cuts into the substance, holds it to your face and asks you to
take a bite. What is the creation? Is it edible?
The man holding the spoonful of mystery is Dr. Ray Crawford, instructor
of psychology at FRCC. Dr. Crawford was the guest speaker for the FRCC
Psychology Club on Thursday, Oct. 26. This psychological test was per-
formedby Dr. Crawford to illustrate the importance and effects of percep-
tion on the mind. The creation turned out to be cauliflower, but until its
true identity was revealed, it managed to stump not only the student mem-
bers, but the faculty advisors as well.
Though this may sound a bit out of the ordinary, such incidents and
discussions are regular occurrences at Psychology Club meetings.
Approaching its one-year anniversary, the FRCC Psychology Club,
although brought to life by faculty, was an idea originating from the interests
of psychology students. Dawn Wriedt, 45, an adjunct faculty member,
instructor of Psychology (PSY) 101 and 102 and joint club advisor, explained
that as more and more students inquired about a psychology club, the only
option was to create one. “It was worth our efforts to try and give them
one,” said Wriedt.
Judith Goeke, co-advisor, adjunct faculty member and instructor of
Human Sexuality, points out that if it was not for the initiative taken by the
students, it’s likely that there would be no club today. “There are no teach-
ers without students,” she states.
Specifically, the dedication and pressure from club member and Vice
President Erika Pavlov pushed Wriedt and Goeke to work hard to create the
club. Pavlov, 41, earned her master’s degree in business while in Russia and
is majoring in psychology at FRCC. She pushed for the club so that students
would be able to get together and discuss various psychological issues.
The club meetings, also set up by students and monitored by the advi-
sors, are a means for students to propose, research, and discuss ideas, both
directly and indirectly related to psychology. Topics of discussion include:
stress on the mind and body; hypnosis and the effects on the mind; human
sexuality; and the mind’s perception on various topics, such as Dr. Craw-
ford’s brain experiment; and the effects of medicine and the placebo effect.
Every other week, a scheduled guest speaker attends at the request of the
advisors. Guest speakers discuss topics familiar to staff and students and
introduce a new topic. Goeke is planning to discuss hypnosis with the club
in the near future. Generally, students will propose a topic during one
meeting, discuss what they’re aware of, conduct outside research, and return
to club meetings with more information, more questions, and more points of
discussion.
The only problem, according to Wriedt, is deciphering what is true in
what people hear and know. “It’s hard for someone who doesn’t follow
research, scientific research, to know what’s true,” she states. However,
within the discussion of the topic, the members deduce what of the gathered
information is real and what is fabricated.
Other than analyzing theories, the club also discusses controversial
movies. Previously, the club spent time discussing “What the Bleep Do We
All students are welcome to attend and are not restricted to particular
events or meetings. Students may come and go as they please. Some meet-
ings see upwards of 15 students, while others may have a turnout of four.
Wriedt explains that the turnout depends on the topic and student’s inter-
ests. “Some people have no interest in and certain topic. Some have lots,”
she states.
FRCC student Amanda Atwood, 24, joined the club at the beginning of
the year. “I took a couple of classes. The meetings fit into my schedule. [I]
thought I’d check it out,” she states. So far, Atwood has learned a lot of new
skills on lowering and controlling stress and managing day-to-day activities.
The upcoming discussion by Goeke sparks her interest, as she’s “never been
hypnotized.”
While the club is currently small, the advisors have plans for the future.
(Continued on page 4)
 17

C AMPUS W ELLNESS

T HE L ONG R UN : M Y L IFE WITH D IABETES

BY R EBECCA M OREHOUSE , S PECIAL FOR THE R ANGEVIEW

One evening in late September of 2005, I sat around a campfire with friends, huddled in blankets, breathing in the night air, laughing,
and telling stories. It was our senior year, and my friends and I were determined to have as much fun as possible. Our impractical idea of
being inseparable was to go to school for a maximum of five hours, and then hang out before school, after school, on the weekends, and in
between classes. Not only was this plan ridiculous but, lately, I had felt extremely tired and stressed. I didn‟t even have energy for the sim-
plest everyday tasks. It was a rare occasion that I was in class anymore. I was also failing on the varsity cross country team. So that night,
I decided to brush it all off and kick back with a few friends around the fire. I would definitely feel better, I thought.
But on that night of carefree, laid-back conversation, in what seemed like only minutes later, I was in a hospital bed being rushed into
emergency surgery. What happened? A dermoid cyst, the size of a grapefruit, had caused my ovary to collapse. The pain was so great that
I turned pale and quiet, clenching my stomach in agony. The cyst, along with my ovary, were removed, and what was left was a six-inch
incision that surged with pain every time I so much as twitched. These were the biggest problems of my premature adult experience so far:
an inconvenient surgery and a disagreeable scar.
But when Dr. Carson came to my room the next day, he said something I will
never forget: “None of this will matter in the long run. The real challenge is that
you have diabetes.”
The hospital staff assumed my high blood-sugar levels before surgery were
due to the massive pain that I was feeling from the collapsed ovary. However, by
taking an A1C test, a test that measured my blood glucose over the previous three
months, they discovered that my sugars had been running high for a long period of
time. This indicated that I did, indeed, have Type I diabetes.
I remember the rest of my hospital stay being full of visits from nurses, dieti-
cians and counselors. I heard the same things over and over: “I‟m so sorry…Be
strong…. You‟re going to have to change a lot… Be disciplined.”

Photo by Ashley Storm

I‟m not sure if it was the fact that I was doped up on pain meds, or that I was
just another untested teenager who thought that she was invincible, because I just
didn‟t get it. Even with all the doctors and specialists explaining the condition to
me, I didn‟t really know what the disease meant. At the time, I was simply relieved
that my constant fatigue, dizziness and weakness could finally be explained. They
said there was treatment, so everything would be fine, right? Well, it was much
later that I truly understood the challenges that I faced.
Type 1 diabetes, also known as juvenile diabetes, is one of the most common
chronic childhood illnesses. Studies from the American Diabetes Association indicate that it is brought on by a virus or auto-immune
disorder. This can cause the body to not recognize an organ as its own, so the body‟s immune system attacks that organ. In my case, my
pancreas was attacked and, as a result, it stopped producing the necessary amount of insulin, a hormone which transports glucose to the
body‟s cells for energy. Instead, the sugar becomes concentrated in the bloodstream, causing all kinds of problems.
More commonly seen in young and older adults is Type 2 diabetes, which develops due to poor diet and lack of exercise. With Type 2
diabetes, insulin is still produced by the pancreas, but it‟s simply less effective. This kind of diabetes is usually less aggressive and can be
treated with improved diet and exercise, as well as by taking oral medications rather than injections.
As a healthy 18-year-old girl who ran up to six miles a day and was petrified of any food that wasn‟t fat-free, my doctor figured it
was nearly impossible that I had Type 2 diabetes. I was just one slightly rarer case of Type 1 diabetes seen in young adulthood.
Some of the major complications stemming from Type 1 diabetes are increased risk for premature blindness, heart disease, limb am-
putations, kidney failure, and ketoacidosis, which is a condition of extremely high blood sugar which can lead to a coma.
“The time you spend now on good care and blood-sugar control could delay or prevent the onset of dangerous complications later in
life.” I‟ve heard this lecture by every expert, and read some variation of it in every medical journal, “diabetic lifestyle” article, or “Diabetes
for Dummies”-type self-help book. The truth is, managing my diabetes is much easier said than done. Since my diagnosis, I‟ve experi-
enced numerous complications from poor blood-sugar control already. Not only do I often feel tired and weak, but I also experience fre-
quent thirst and urination, blurred vision, numbness and tingling from poor circulation, swelling, vomiting, and a large increase in bad
cholesterol. Sound like the problems of someone over 60? Well, you‟d be right. I‟m always surprised at how well I can relate to the popu-
lation of retired citizens at the young age of 20.
However, the biggest obstacle for me is the constant struggle with depression. Ten to 30 percent of people with diabetes also suffer
from depression. The reason for this is thought to be because treating diabetes is very unpleasant and it can cause emotional distress. Feel-
ing isolated from family and friends often makes it extremely hard to get by. While a lot of my friends are out partying, I‟m supposed to be
more concerned with regular exercise and my high-fiber/low-fat diet. Like most college students, I don‟t want to care, I want to have fun
and be spontaneous. But the diabetes always comes first, and sometimes it makes me feel utterly hopeless. I‟ve made some big mistakes,
and had to learn the hard way. But the real wake-up call was when my endocrinologist, Dr. Georgiana Klingensmith, said point-blank, “If
you continue to carry on the way you are, you will die.”
Today, I live every day treating my diabetes, as well as fighting diabetic-related kidney disease, which could have been prevented
with better sugar control. I‟m lucky that my kidneys were the only things damaged; before, it was my entire life that was on the line. Now,
when I wake up, I take an entire pharmacy of pills for both my diabetes and kidney disease. I give myself two different kinds of insulin
injections, one long-acting insulin (Lantus), and another short-acting insulin (Humalog), which I give myself another three to four times
every day. I always have a snack or some kind of sugar tablet to prevent passing out from low blood sugar. I visit my endocrinologist
every three months to monitor my long-term control. I also see a nephrologist, Dr. Jason Merritt, every six weeks, in order to help me treat
and, hopefully, cure my diabetic-related kidney disease.
Diabetes is a lifestyle and a burden. Its unforgiving consequences have taught me that there is no “I‟ll do it later” or “I‟ll skip this one
shot.” Now, I never take my health for granted, and I have a greater appreciation for simply being able to get out of bed every morning.
I‟ve learned to always think ahead, to focus on my strengths, and live healthily, because I never know what to expect out of life. And even
though it may be a constant struggle, I have to keep going. ®
 18

M EDIUM C OOL

M USIC IN H ARMONY AT FRCC job at connecting the lessons to the modern world and keeping
the students interested. “There is such a rich history… Music
parallels human beings and how we have advanced,” he said.
BY M ARY L EEK , R ANGEVIEW R EPORTER
Trumble expressed concern in the way that students hesi-
“Music is the inspiration of the world,” Luke Trumble, 21, tate to choose music as a profession, saying, “I might be a kook
an FRCC music student said when describing what he feels is the for saying this, but I feel like, nowadays, the prevailing mental-
importance of music education. ity is that unless you study business or economics, you can‟t
get a job…When I hear music, I realize that this is someone‟s
Currently, there are 25 music courses offered through FRCC, story, someone‟s emotional interpretation having nothing to
including everything from Music Fundamentals and Music Ap-
with money,” he stated. “People say that money talks. What
preciation to Music Theory, for those students considering music
does it say? Money says you have to work for me. Music sings,
as a profession. Along with these courses, there are private les-
money doesn‟t,” he said.
sons available for students interested in learning to play an instru-
ment, or those interested in improving their instrumental profi- Throgmorton also described the importance of music
ciency. education, saying, “I feel like it‟s essential. It‟s a vital part of
education…It‟s very important for human experiences,” she
“It‟s generally a cheaper option for students,” Debra Throg-
said. She cited recent studies that have shown that playing
morton, lead instructor and director of the Music Department at
music enhances brain function and coordination, and teaches
FRCC said about the benefits of enrolling in private lessons at a
students teamwork.
community college, rather than at private institutions.
When explaining the music departments at four-year uni-
Trumble is enrolled in four different music courses this se-
versities as opposed to those at community colleges, Throg-
mester, including private lessons for the violin. He spends 13
morton said, “Frankly, you won‟t be able to have private in-
hours a semester
struction unless you‟re
receiving coaching music major.” The Mu-
from his private sic Department at
teacher. “I consider
FRCC allows students
it a decent price. It‟s
to have an intimate
cheaper than you
learning experience
would find around
because of the smaller
town,” he said. classrooms. “Students
The basic cur- have access to high
riculum of the intro- level instruction,” she
ductory music said.
courses generally “The problem with
consists of the fun- universities is if you‟re
damentals of music, not classically trained,
musical forms, gen-
chances of surviving in
res and periods. Stu-
a competitive environ-
dents planning on
ment are slim,” Trum-
taking music as a ble said. The courses
major are able to available through
take more advanced
FRCC are suitable for
courses covering Music Department head Debra Throgmorton assists students Krystal Headrick (L) musicians of all levels,
music theory, har- and Maria Kohler as they compose at keyboards programmed through computers. from beginners to pro-
mony, analysis and Photo by Ashley Storm fessionals.
ear training.
The Music Depart-
Trumble is enrolled this semester in Music History II, Music
ment is located in Mount Antero. The department works
Technology, Music Theory 1, and violin lessons. “Sometimes it
closely with the Harmony Library to sponsor events such as
gets tedious even through learning different perspectives on mu-
recitals and concerts. There are usually two recitals a semester
sic, but the teachers do a great job at mixing it up for the stu- held at the Harmony Library. “Harmony in the Round” takes
dents,” he said. He noted that the strongest part of the depart- place on Friday nights. The concert features classical music
ment is the teachers and their knowledge of the subject. Describ- played by band members within the space of the circulation
ing Throgmorton, he said, “She is so knowledgeable, and entirely
desk, allowing the audience to gather around the musicians.
willing to take you aside and further explain what has been
taught.” During the summer, the Music Department and the Har-
mony Library present “Harmony on the Green,” which takes
Trumble also explained that the music instructors do a good
place on the grass outside Harmony Library. ®

M EDIUM C OOL
A N OVEL I DEA :
N OVEMBER IS N ATIONAL
N OVEL W RITING M ONTH
BY K ATE E LISHA , R ANGEVIEW R EPORTER
For most people, Thanksgiving Break was spent relaxing,
enjoying time with family, and eating far too much food. How-
ever, for nearly 100,000 participants in National Novel Writing
Month (NaNoWriMo, for short) Thanksgiving Break, and the
entire month of November, will have been spent feverishly
racing to complete a 50,000-word novel. Why, one might ask,
would anyone put themselves through 30 agonizing days and
nights spent hunched over laptops, cranking out page after page
of their novels, all by the time the clock strikes midnight on
Nov. 30?
For FRCC anthropology major Lauren Darien, 22, the an-
swer is simple. “I really just want to be able to finish a novel…
I think the feeling of actually finishing something that big
would be amazing!” And what better way to
crank out the equivalent of 175 pages than to
join a community of thousands of other people
“C AREFUL ,
on the same wild dash to the finish line? OR YOU ’ LL END UP
IN MY NOVEL .”
The first NaNoWriMo took place in 1999
in the San Francisco Bay area. Fort Collins‟
— recently sighted on
NaNoWriMo liaison and FRCC student, Sim-
mon Barney, explains, “It started out as a joke.
[Creator Chris Baty] and some friends dared
each other to write a novel in a month, and a few of them won.
So they did it again the next year…The word spread, and it just
got bigger and bigger!”
Nine years later, NaNoWriMo is more popular than ever.
For starters, the Website is available in Spanish, French and
Dutch. Each year, participants come from all 50 states, more
than 70 other countries around the world.
While the contest promotes quantity over quality, Barney
assures, “The point…is not to encourage bad novels…but
many people talk about the novels they‟re going to write, [and]
they just worry about …making everything perfect…Some
people never get past the first chapter.”
Barney views the finished novel as a rough draft that can
be edited later, and explains that writers are often surprised at
what they have created. “You have this perception of it being
really terrible, and there are certainly those moments when you
would never show [it] to anyone, but there are also these sec-
tions that are just startlingly good…So it‟s not that you‟re try-
ing to write a crappy novel. It‟s that you‟re just not worrying
about writing a good one.”
Darien agrees and says, “If [my novel] is good and I like it, said. The committee‟s criteria consist of financial need and persis-
I would definitely love to try to publish it!”
If she did publish her novel, she would not be alone. Ac-
cording to the 2007 NaNoWriMo press release, 16 novelists
19
have had their “NaNo-novels” published, including the author of
New York Times #1 Best Seller, “Water for Elephants,” Sarah
Gruen.
Completing a 50,000-word novel can be a daunting task, and
Barney stresses that, “It is important to stay on track. Most people
divide the month into increments [of] about 1,600 words a day,
which is a couple pages.”
He also encourages participants to take advantage of local
“write-ins” where NaNo-novelists can meet each other, bounce
ideas off one another, and work on their novels. Barney says the
sense of community gained from the write-ins is helpful because,
“You have these people encouraging you…and challenging
you…and guilting you” to finish.
For the last two years, Fort Collins has had a regional war
with Greeley to see which city will have the most participants
finish. There are write-ins every day of the week throughout No-
vember, including Tuesdays at 10:00 a.m. in the Harmony Li-
brary. Participants can also chat with other NaNo-novelists by
using the forums on the NaNoWriMo Website.
Darien understands that the community of
writers can really help her novel progress. “It
[helps] to be around people who are doing
the exact same thing, for encouragement.”
Yet, clearly, the pressure can become too
much for many people. Only 18 percent of
participants finish each year. To officially
a t-shirt “win,” participants must validate their novels
on the NaNoWriMo Website by midnight on
Nov. 30.
There are no official prizes for completion. Just finishing
a novel is satisfaction enough for most NaNo-novelists. “You
have completed something that most people only dream about,”
says Barney. “Things happen that you didn‟t expect…When
you‟re working toward that deadline, things just happen.” He
adds, the process of writing a novel has “helped me understand
that you can accomplish things if you set goals.”
Prize or no prize, Darien will continue to write her NaNoW-
riMo novel, working toward her ultimate goal of becoming a pub-
lished author.
NaNoWriMo participants can all breathe a sigh of relief very
shortly, and can begin to reflect on the monumental task they
have completed.
For more information, visit www.NaNoWriMo.org. ®
(FUTURES Continued from page 12)
the principal of Fort Collins High School, selecting the finalist of
the three chosen applicants. “We had criteria. I have a real good
idea of what it takes to be successful in college,” Loeffler-Clemens
tent academic success.
For more information, contact Leah Goss, director of the cam-
paign, at Leah.Goss@FrontRange.edu. ®
 20

Erie. Although we will not use this

Photo by Justin Bauer P OUDRE R IVER IN P ERIL
BY K ERRI M ITCHELL
G UEST C OLUMNIST
Whenever I ask students to name the most important
environmental issues, they respond with things like: global
warming, overconsumption, and deforestation.
I‟m grateful that my students conjure up such thought-
ful answers. When I was in college, I could have cared less
about environmental issues. Sure, I had a Sierra Club poster
hanging on my wall, but that was only because the colors
matched my bedspread.
I had to keep this in mind when I recently asked stu-
dents about the Glade Reservoir Project. Of the two classes
I polled, only one student knew anything about it.
I‟ve since talked to many friends, neighbors, and col-
leagues and, shockingly, very few of them are aware of the
proposed plan. This is a problem because Glade Reservoir
is poised to happen, and it will affect us all in very real,
very big ways.
Glade Reservoir is a $370 million project that is slated Writing Center at FRCC. She contributed to “Pulse of the River,” a col-
to be built at the base of the Poudre River on Highway 287.
It is projected to be 25 percent larger than Horsetooth Res-
ervoir but, unlike Horsetooth, this reservoir won‟t be used
for recreation. The owners want to lower the level as
needed, so there are no plans for a marina or boat ramps.
All of the water for Glade Reservoir will come directly contributed a fiction piece to “Pulse of the River” titled “Stations.”
from the Poudre River. Roughly 90 percent of the Poudre is
already diverted for agricultural and industrial purposes.
Glade now threatens to capture the small 10 percent that
still flows freely.
So why is this a big deal?
If we‟re already using 90
percent of the river, why not
drain the whole thing?
There are plenty of rea-
sons. Some are environ-
mental, some financial, but in
addition to these, Glade will
affect the quality of life on
the Front Range. Here‟s why:
1. The water from Glade will
not go to Fort Collins or
Loveland. Although the
Poudre is in our backyard, the
water isn‟t ours. If Glade is built, the water will be redi-
rected to neighboring cities such as Windsor, Berthoud and
water, we are being asked to give
up a great deal: a healthy river, wa-
ter quality, surrounding habitat, and
river recreation in town.
2. Glade Reservoir will increase sprawl along the Front Range.
Since it will be funded by millions of dollars of debt, this debt can
only be repaid if rapid, unsustainable growth occurs. Many of you
who have lived your entire lives in Fort Collins are already as-
tounded by the hyper-fast rate of growth here. Glade would mag-
nify this predicament enormously.
3. Glade promotes a “consume” rather than “conserve” mentality.
A recent survey conducted by the Statewide Water Supply Initia-
tive shows that the counties that support Glade have few or no
water conservation programs in place. Conservation is far less
costly than building damns. It is also sustainable and has been
shown to work. The Western Resource Advocate Organization
lists many viable water conservation strategies for the Front Range
region on their Website.
Eventually, we will have no choice but to conserve water once
our resources run out. By then, we will have already lost a river.
Residents of Fort Collins and surrounding communities have
until March 2008 to comment on this issue to the U.S. Army
Corps of Engineers and their local government representatives.
After that, our opinions won‟t mean a thing.
If you care about saving the Poudre River and want to make a
difference, please visit www.savethepoudre.org to learn how you
can help. Once the river is gone, we can‟t get it back.
Kerri Mitchell is an English faculty member and the director of the
lection of poems, essays and articles by 30 Colorado writers sharing their
stories to draw attention to the growing threats to the Cache la Poudre
River. Her non-fiction essay is titled “Coming Back.”
Blair Oliver, Arts & Letters Department chair and English faculty,
The book was released in 2007 by Big Earth Publishing in Boulder,
Colo.
Photo by Gary Wockner, co-editor of “Pulse of the River”

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