Cow 1.3

The Voice of the Denver Waldorf High School

March 30, 2009 Volume 1, Issue 3

Chronicles Of Waldorfia Illustration by Meril Shane

Perspectives on “Our Town”

Contents

By Meril Shane and Alexis Brunhofer “Our Town”

1

Waldorf Reflections

1 recently involved in the pro- comes naturally. In fact, “The

Shorts in Winter

2 duction of the play Our Town,

Crossword History

2 On the surface, the play is 3 about average life in a small

The sophomore class was written by Thornton Wilder.

Sprocket Ball II

town called Grover’s Corners.

Vamps vs. Wolves Hitchhiker’s Guide

3 Two families live side by side, 3 interacting and making up the

Ancient History a Hit

4

“Twilight” on Screen

5

“Twilight”: Deadly

5

Continue the C.O.W.?

7

Success for Writers

9

Gossip Group Gruel

9

WWI Soldier’s Diary

10

Disney Horoscopes

11

Bookbinder’s Awl

11

Sudoku

12

Crossword

12

Due to the snow days some material slated for this issue will appear in the next issue, on Monday, April 20.

foundation of the story. Smaller characters are interspersed, woven together by the narrator, who drew out the significance from the everyday goings on. This play definitely had an impact on its audience, portraying the contrast between life and death, and how fine the line is that separates them. Clearly this story speaks to crowds, but does it speak louder to the performers? That is the question we set out to answer.

For Milandra Pfister acting point or other.” Hunter Curtis, on the hardest part was kissing Evan,” other hand, prefers lighter, she said, giggling. She played comedic plays, such as the the role of Emily Webb, a hard play his class did last year, working and determined girl where he had that unforgettawho goes through adolescence, ble and sexy line, “I’m a doclove, marriage, motherhood, tor.” Hunter had no difficulty and death all on the same learning the character Editor stage. Milandra focused on the Webb’s lines because he fothemes, finding the last act cused entirely on the words, most challenging because it without reading into the involved death and the emo- meaning behind them. “I tions surrounding it. “It was really don’t pay attention to hard to relate to,” she says, but the theme of the play,” he it “made me think.” Because admitted. He believes it’s the of her role as a main character job of the actor to focus on and her commitment to the the script, and leave the mescharacter, Milandra plainly sage to the audience to intertook away some meaning. pret. “It’s about life,” she said. “The Recently arrived Vietwhole play is just about life, namese student, K, undoubtand it’s a lot of stuff I haven’t edly had the toughest task of really gone through yet but that all. Being new to the English everyone goes through at some (Continued on page 2)

Waldorf: Helpful for Myths, Science By Nathan Palo

Waldorf education is unique. Many people think it is one of the best ways for a child Contact the C.O.W. to learn. However, students often leave after completing 8th Denver Waldorf School grade and sometimes have trou940 Fillmore Street ble acclimating to other types of Denver CO 80206 schools. The same issue is encountered after high school, 303-777-0531 x162 when students are first getting used to the college environment. [email protected] Waldorf education is very different from many other cur-

riculums, and there are several things I like about it, including the balance of artistic and academic courses, and the way that we are encouraged to think for ourselves. I think it is very beneficial, but it can take time for one to adjust to a different environment. Having virtually no experience of non-Waldorf education, I decided to get another perspective on the issue,

from someone who had relatively recently graduated, but had also had a chance to utilize the education outside of the school. I chose to interview Caitlin Palo, a Denver Waldorf alumnus, and recent college graduate. Mostly, Caitlin indicated that Waldorf education seems to have its ad(Continued on page 3)

Chronicles of Waldorfia

Volume 1, Issue 3

Page 2

Our Town

Shorts in Winter By Ana Spotts

(Continued from page 1)

language is a challenge in itself, but K found himself in an even more difficult position - up on stage in a foreign country, with a mouthful of scientific terms to recite to the audience in his role as a professor. K’s biggest fear, mispronunciation, was made worse when the crowd laughed during his lecture on the history of Grover’s Corners. “I thought they were laughing at my pronunciation!” (We assured him that was not the case; it was the professor’s longwinded lesson that got us laughing). Pronunciation is so different in Vietnamese than in English, we’re sure we can speak for the entire population of the earth when we say, “Kudos K. Keep rockin’.” The part of Myrtle Webb, played by Annie Coyle, was a more dramatic and demanding role then she obtained in previous years. In the play, she deals with the death of her daughter, and said her biggest challenge was portraying those feelings leading up to that loss. In addition to the seriousness of the theme, “Our Town is Mr. Johnson’s favorite play,” according to Annie, and therefore had a lot of pressure attached to the performance. In the end, even with so much riding on the production, Annie thinks her class really pulled it off. As onlookers, it is clear that Our Town brought new maturity to the sophomores as they struggled with themes beyond their years. The actors gave riveting portrayals of deep emotion and inner battles that greatly inspired and moved the Waldorf community. At the same time, they were able to learn about themselves and grow in this experience by being exposed to a deeper message than they had ever encountered before in a play.

Living in Colorado, one would expect a warming. The technology which is being great deal of snow and ice during the win- produced in this day and age releases ter; however, this past winter we saw little massive amounts of carbon dioxide, causof either. ing the earth's atmosphere to grow conThough I tinuously myself have thicker. no problem While many enjoy wearing shorts and flip- In other words, with the un- flops in midwinter, the price the environment it is quite possibelievably is paying for this luxury is much too great. ble that through high temactivities as peratures, there are many advantages to simple flipping a light switch, we have snow. I am speaking not only of the numer- become the very cause of our record ous activities which accompany fresh pow- breaking high temperatures this winter. der, such as: skiing, snowboarding, sled- Although the temperature is increasing ding, and of course snow days, but also of quite slowly, a mere degree or two can the much needed moisture. make all the difference. Over the past few Many would jump to the conclusion years, the rise in our temperatures has that this dramatic rise in temperature can be caused many of Alaska's glaciers to begin blamed on global warming. Others dismiss breaking apart. This will continue if the this possibility, refusing to believe that this problem at hand is ignored. could happen. When asked about her views So while many enjoy wearing shorts on global warming, Chloe Prendergast and flip-flops in midwinter, the price the (environmental enthusiast) replied, “We environment is paying for this luxury is can't ignore what we're doing to the envi- much too great. When asked about the ronment, otherwise nothing will change.” state of our environment, Dylan Baker Global warming is a “natural disaster” replied, "We have ignored this issue for caused by the earth's ever-thickening atmos- far too long, it's time to take some acphere, blocking infrared radiation from tion!" reaching space. This infrared radiation is We can take action by simply living then trapped within the earth's atmosphere, our lives by the motto “Use only what causing it to withhold a great deal of carbon you need.” By minimizing the amount of dioxide. This, in turn, causes the earth's sur- carbon we release into the atmosphere, we face to heat up. can minimize the effect we have on the Though we often consider ourselves environment. insignificant in the grand scheme of things, One person can make a difference! this is not the case when it comes to global

Crosswords: A Wordy History By John Reinhart A long time ago, in a world far, far away, before Sudoku, Kakuro, or KenKen, there was…word-cross? A Gallup poll once found that crossword puzzles, originally called “wordcross,” are the most popular indoor game in the United States. Around thirty million Americans take a few minutes out of their day to play crossword puzzles. Crosswords, originally called “word cross,” are a relatively new puzzle and they have cemented themselves in American culture. Virtually every newspaper has a daily crossword, and solving the New York Times’ Sunday

puzzle is a noted achievement. The first crossword puzzle appeared in the New York World on December 21, 1913. It was the brainchild of Arthur Wynne, a New York Brit. Other papers hesitated to publish puzzles. It was not until publisher Simon and Schuster released a book of crosswords that Americans were infected with puzzling. The New York Times did not print a crossword until after Simon and Schuster sold over 500,000 copies of its puzzle collection and the Baltimore and (Continued on page 5)

Chronicles of Waldorfia

Volume 1, Issue 3 Page 3

Recent Grad Reflects

Sprocket Ball: A Girl’s Perspective By Emma Franklin

references in humanities vantages and disadvantages courses, and I’ve found that I seamlessly intertwined. For often have a basic grasp of instance, the block system had scientific principles that my the advantage that it shows that peers do not.” Content spread with a little determination and throughout our curriculum focus, anything can be accom- (ranging from 6th and 10th plished, even in a short time. grade Astronomy to 10th grade On the other hand, because we embryology) gives a platform learn a wide to consider and variety of sub- “I’ve found that I often converse about jects over a have a basic grasp of topics that we semester, it might otherwise caused a de- scientific principles know nothing sire to do a that my peers do not.” about. little bit of In social circles, everything; which although Caitlin said that her small class possible to a certain extent in a size (8) had helped her learn to liberal arts college, ultimately get along with, and become a single major had to be fo- close friends with a small cused on. group of people. She was When it comes to academ- somewhat uneasy, however, ics, Waldorf education gener- about finding close friends ally doesn’t get the credit it among a group of hundreds. deserves. “My elementary In the college application Waldorf education was surpris- process, the extra-curriculars ingly helpful when it came to built into Waldorf education identifying myth and legend (Continued on page 4)

A couple weeks ago this newspaper printed an article about Sprocket Ball. While nothing in the article was false, it is my opinion that not all parties were accurately represented. So I have decided to take another look at Sprocket Ball and give a more rounded view of the sport. The misrepresentation lies in the general regard towards Sprocket Ball in the high school community. While many of the boys say that Sprocket Ball is a fun and challenging sport, many of the girls disagree. Naturally I couldn't hope to accurately represent each individual student; there are definitely some girls who enjoy the game and some

Vampires vs. Werewolves

Hitchhiker’s Guide

By Laney Harden

By Gautam Webb

(Continued from page 1)

You’re walking over the meadow and through the woods to Grandma’s house on a random Tuesday evening, and you take a wrong turn. Before you know it, the sun has set and the temperature has dropped from a balmy 84.5º to a chilly 35º. The woods are no longer bright and green. Instead, with each step you take, the looming branches become more and more threatening as you stumble over the bramble in an effort to find dear old Grannie’s house.

BAM!!! Out of nowhere, a tall, pale, and leering figure pops out at you. His red eyes shine into your soul and at that heart-stopping, adrenaline-rushing moment, you realize that your fate is sealed. Doom has struck in the form of a vampire. Or, perhaps, that wasn’t you! Instead, you’re on spring break, and you’re camping with your buddies out on the beach. The sky is cloudy, and you have just finished pouring sand over (Continued on page 7)

boys who don't. That said, most of the girls are extremely discontent with the game. Junior Alexis Brunhofer is quoted as saying "Yeah, it's definitely one of Coach's worst inventions." I agree wholeheartedly. I think that part of the reason Sprocket Ball isn't fun for the girls is that the boys tend to dominate the game and become overly and aggressively competitive. Playing what is supposed to be a casual physical education game competitively is not only intimidating but also potentially dangerous. Many are the times a student has been hit quite hard with a wayward ball, (Continued on page 4)

Forty-two. interesting and One could humorous majust stop right ter ial t hat there, seeing as should not be it is the “Answer l e f t to the Great unmentioned. Qu estion of Douglas AdLife, the Uni- “Don’t Panic.” Reas- ams has a verse and Every- suring advice from the unique style. thing,” as Doug- late Douglas Adams. He is witty, las Adams wrote unpredictable in his bestselling novel, and very imaginative. The Hitchhiker’s Guide to The Hitchhiker’s Guide the Galaxy. However, this relates the experiences book that has captivated of six intelligent, but and entertained so many very different, beings. (Continued on page 7) contains so much more

Chronicles of Waldorfia

Volume 1, Issue 3

Page 4

Ancient History A Hit Grad Speaks (Continued from page 3)

really flesh out a resume, but it is impossible to continue everything. Continuing with theater and choir and orchestra and sports just isn’t possible. “The most difficult part in applying to college from the Waldorf High school was my unfamiliarity with the competitive nature of the process. Though I had the advantages of a full resume, and a broad range of rigorous classes, I did not know how to present them well. The Waldorf philosophy of reducing competition between students proved a disadvantage in the college application process.” When asked how Waldorf education could be improved, Caitlin said that as an English major, she wished she had read more ‘Great Books,’ although she had read and discussed several (including Rain of Gold, The Master and Margarita, and Faust). Although she appreciates reading the less known, but still critically important books, such as Dante’s Inferno, she wishes she had read more common canonic books as well. Overall, Waldorf education is fairly well balanced. It has its strengths and weaknesses, but I think its greatest strength may be that it provides a strong foundation to move in any direction, and helps teach the ability to overcome weaknesses.

Write for the C.O.W.! Email submissions to [email protected]

By Chloe Prendergast History is a very integral part of the curriculum at the Denver Waldorf High School. Throughout a student’s four-year career in high school, they will generally experience a few history classes each year. When asked about their views on history and its significance, juniors Laney Harden and Gautam Webb had a lot to say. Gautam said that he doesn’t enjoy his- Laney would lunch with Cleopatra, tory that much, but ancient paragon of femininity that it is an important thing to study. He said that like we learn from our it’s important to learn from own individual mistakes. mankind’s mistakes just

Laney said that she enjoys history, but that her interest really depends on the type of history and the teacher teaching it. Ancient History seemed to be one of the most liked history classes that the juniors have had so far. Laney really enjoyed it because of all the interesting stories that were told. “I really liked hearing stories that don’t only have to do with war,” she said. “It was cool hearing stories about a lot of different cultures from such a different time.” Gautam also really enjoyed this class because of the mythical stories that differ so much from any other (Continued on page 5)

Sprocket Ball Isn’t Fun For Girls (Continued from page 3)

particularly when certain of the boys get aggressive and kick the ball really forcefully. And quite often students are bowled over, trod on, or even full-on-butaccidentally tackled. Not to mention the students who are interested in participating but are discouraged by some of the competitive boy students yelling rude comments. Perhaps part of the issue for the game is gender integration. While I am normally a complete advocate for gender equality, maybe this is one of those times it would be better to segregate. By this I mean that Sprocket Ball is fun enough when only the girls are playing, and I

feel certain that the boys enjoy the game more when only boys are playing. I feel this assumption is justified because I have often heard the boys complaining about the girls not participating and getting in the way. That is certainly a valid point. It is important, however, to consider the fact that the girls are not playing not out of laziness or a desire to put a damper on the boys' spirits but because we actually dislike the game and feel uncomfortable playing it. But when only girls are playing Sprocket Ball, the girls

are a lot less competitive and a lot less dangerous. I suppose that what I'm trying to say is that there is nothing inherently wrong with the game; there is something wrong with the way the game is played. I hope that I have brought another side to the picture in order to make the previous story more complete, and that my opinions have not been too biased. And once again, I wouldn't dare say that I speak for all the girls or that the author of the previous article spoke for all the boys. We have simply tried to share some of our thoughts about the game.

Chronicles of Waldorfia

Volume 1, Issue 3 Page 5

“Twilight”: Page to Screen “Twilight”: A Deadly Tide By Ana Spotts As the movie industry continues to grow, more books are making their way to the big screen. Among the books which have made the journey to the world of cinema is Twilight, the first book in the Twilight Saga by Stephenie Meyer. The incredibly successful Twilight Saga tells the story of Bella Swan, an ordinary seventeen year old girl who falls in love with the intriguingly beautiful Edward Cullen. However, upon feeling the ice cold touch of Edwards hand in hers, Bella soon discovers that things are not what they seem. Not only does Edward's flawless marble skin sparkle in the light of the sun, but he can uproot a tree, or stop a sliding van with a

By Teddy Oja stars a strong female character affectionately called “Bella,” who encounters a single hand. Oh Vampires, pale, blood-sucking hunk at yeah, and he werewolves her school. The story moves survives on a and giggling in a predictable enough patscrumptious diet of blood! girls… oh tern from there: girl loves Yes, Edward crap. Yes, I guy, guy ignores girl, guy Cullen is a am talking saves girl, guy loves girl, vampire who about guy saves girl time and wants nothing more than to “Twilight,” again. drink the blood the teen book It’s a simple enough of the woman series that concept: Take a creature he loves. The has moved that has dwelled in nightonly thing stopping him, apart like a deadly mares for centuries and rofrom his love tide through- manticize it. It also seems for Bella, is the out the nalike a pretty good idea for a strict rule by tion, drownseries. But why does this which he lives ing girls in bother me? I wouldn’t mind his life, stating that he drink tales of unre- it at all were it not for the only the blood “Twilight” was recently released quited love. droves of obsessed young (Continued on page 6) (Continued on page 6) on DVD. The book

Two Perspectives on “Twilight” by Stephenie Meyer.

Crossword History (Continued from page 2)

Ohio Railroad placed dictionaries in every car to assist traveling enthusiasts. The first New York Times crossword appeared in 1942. The Times of London, nose in the air, occasionally printed crosswords in Latin. Crossword puzzles come in many shapes, themes, and difficulties. Part of the New York Times’ puzzle challenge is that editor Will Shortz assumes that “a New York Times crossword solver is reading the rest of the paper and is generally aware of everything that's going on in the world.” That is no small task, especially on Sundays when the Sun-

day Times is like reading a book. “Solving puzzles makes you a better person,” Shortz said in a recent Time Magazine interview. “You learn flexibility of thinking, and you learn to think practically.” Editor’s Note: The C.O.W. is pleased to offer Reinhart’s first original crossword puzzle on page 12. “I tried using internet puzzle programs, and even downloaded a crossword creator,” said Reinhart, “but they just weren’t good enough.” The result is a DWS themed crossword sure to challenge and amuse.

History at Waldorf themselves.” kind of history we learn and The last question they because he really enjoys were both asked was which learning from historical figure Mr. Reinhart they would “History is relewho is, Gautam choose to have vant...because humans says, “an awelunch with if are creatures of habit some teacher.” they could Contrary to and prone to repeat choose any perthemselves.” many people’s son from any beliefs howtime. Laney said ever, Gautam does not believe that she would choose Cleothat history repeats itself. He patra. Laney would like to thinks that the world is not see what this paragon of static, that everything is con- femininity was really like stantly changing and so noth- and compare her story to acing could happen the same tual reality. Gautam said he way it has happened before. would choose to eat lunch Laney disagrees with this with Albert Einstein, who statement. She said, “History was very intelligent but also is relevant to a certain extent extremely eccentric. Gautam because humans are creatures said he would love to experiof habit and prone to repeat ence that. (Continued from page 4)

Chronicles of Waldorfia

Volume 1, Issue 3

Page 6

Twilight Pleasure (Continued from page 5)

Twilight Pain

be replacing Catherine Hard- (Continued from page 5) Twilight series does not end of animals. wicke as the director. When ladies fantasizing about with the first. It goes on to While many books asked about her opinion on which are made into movies the new director, Alexis which non-human boy they introduce a new species of become nearly unrecogniz- Brunhofer, an enthusiastic fan love the most. Anything misunderstood monster in able through changes in the of Stephenie Meyer's work spoken about with such the second book, werestoryline, the same cannot replied, “Catherine Hardwolves. The main characbe said about Twilight. wicke is very strange, and that frequency would bother Though many were disap- definitely came out in the me. This has escalated to ter’s fancy then swings like pointed when several of the movie and the soundtrack. I'm such a point that it is like a pendulum between the two book's scenes were left out very happy about the replacejamming a wedge into my species as she struggles to of the movie, the overall ment for New Moon. Hopeear and pounding it in with decide which love to pursue, response of the fans was fully the new guy will stay quite positive. “I thought true to the books.” an agonizing slowness. I eventually resolving on the they did a pretty good job of And that is just what don’t need to hear any more vampire. making the book come Chris Weitz plans to do. about which one you love Now there are two alive...” says Laney Harden, Weitz, who has previously dream-boys in the series, before losing her train of directed movies such as the most, how late you thought and and girls just American Pie, stayed up explaining, reading it can’t make up About a Boy, “I'm sorry, Overall, the movie and The Golden and how ea- It is like jamming their minds all I can was quite success- Compass,is gerly you which one to think about quite excited to a wedge into my await the pick. “Jacob is Robert ful. However, at take on the Pattinson!” exclaim- next sequel. I ear and pounding or Edward?” The times it had the task, ing, “I will de- know how the twenty-two it in with an ago- becomes vote myself to ecstatic you question on distinct scent of year old making the nizing slowness. are about the all of the avid British actor, best and sharp cheddar. very Robert reader’s lips. most faithful next book. Pattinson, lit version of New These days, if I come to With the creation of a up the screen as the irresisti- Moon that can be brought to school in the morning and movie, out come the personble Edward Cullen, a part the see a alized t-shirts as flocks of which was made quite diffi- screen.” cult by the incredibly high group fans rush to ticket booths to Alexpectations of the fans. though of girls see their desired darlings Though at first many were New Moon hudduke it out on screen. In fact, displeased with the casting won't hit dled I recall seeing a girl dressed choice, complaining that theaters Robert was “just not Ed- until Notoentirely in black and wearing ward,” the majority of the vember gether plastic fangs proclaim herEdward fans soon came 20th,, and self the biggest Twilight fan around to the idea, accept- 2009, Twitalking on earth to a national news ing that Robert Pattinson is light has simply as good as it gets. in low audience. I shudder at the just been Overall, the movie was released voices thought of such devotion to quite successful. However, on DVD. punctuentirely fictional characters. at times it had the distinct We can ated Ladies, you can have scent of sharp cheddar. Yes, only hope only by your clichéd plotlines and it was cheesy; but what do that the you expect when watching a ability to sudden genetically challenged mainfictional movie revolving watch it laughcharacters. I’m perfectly around vampires and ro- daily will ter, I satisfied with being commance? sustain the know pletely ignorant of the latest For those out there who twihards were not satisfied by the for what’s developments in the vamthe translation of Twilight from next eight going pire/werewolf community. page to screen, you can only months! on, and Oh, and one last thing: hope that the second movie, I steer please leave your lovers out New Moon, will do a better Bela Legosi’s 1931 depiction of Count job of meeting your expecof my yearbook! Dracula defined the cultural imagination of clear. tations, as Chris Weitz will vampires for generations. The

Chronicles of Waldorfia

Volume 1, Issue 3 Page 7

Should the C.O.W. Continue?

Hitchhiker’s Review

By Max Fleischer Throughout the past few weeks, cations end after the block has the same question has arisen on sev- passed. eral occasions pertaining to the our There are several factors that publishing, the Chronicles of Wal- need to be taken into account if dorfia. This question is, “What will the consent is that we should conhappen to the C.O.W. once the jour- tinue publishing these articles. I nalism class don't think has ended?” the contrib“What will happen to the T h i s uting articles q u e s t i o n C.O.W. once the journalism class will be that has ended?” posed a mulbig of a factitude of tor. That mixed opinions fixed on opposite being said, the most significant sides of the playing field. There are factor now is who will be in those who think it would be a great charge of layout? idea to continue writing articles for Since I am part of the class the weekly publication. On the con- that is creating these publications, trary, however, there are others who I know exactly what happens durwould rather just consider this an- ing the layout process. On aver(Continued on page 8) other track class and have the publi-

Death By Werewolf or Vampire? fight. But what about comparing the campfire in order to put it out. which one you would rather be Everyone says goodnight and killed by? Yes, the topic is crawls into their tents. However, slightly morbid, but admit it you decide to go for a little midyou’re intrigued. night stroll. As you’re walking, the When a survey of the general clouds move, letting the full moon Waldorf student community was shine down onto the ocean. conducted, a surprising 67% said BAM!!! Out of nowhere, a that they would rather die in the large, shaggy, and hands of a vampire menacing four-legged 67% said that they than be killed by a creature jumps out at would rather die in w er e w o l f . Why you. A waterfall of the hands of a vam- would this be? Readrool and slobber falls sons for choosing the pire. from his mouth as he undead bloodsucker gives a bone-chilling growl that can instead of the mutant wolf often only mean one thing: “you’re my involved the word “sexy” when dinner, pal.” You know it’s no use describing a vampire, while some to run, fly, or even fight. Doom has also pointed out that they would struck in the form of a werewolf. just rather not be slobbered on. When you hear the comparison However, Dylan Baker, a parof a vampire versus a werewolf, ticularly stubborn 11th grader, often the topic is revolving around had a different take on the survey. which is better, which is more atHe replied that he would “rather (Continued on page 8) tractive, or which would win in a (Continued from page 3)

(Continued from page 3)

The story is told from the perspective of Arthur Dent. He is one of only two humans who survive the catastrophe that begins the book, namely, the vaporization of the Earth as a necessary part of the construction of a “hyperspatial express route.” The other main characters, Ford Prefect, Zaphod Beeblebrox, Marvin the Paranoid Android, Trillian and Slartibartfast, are all very intriguing creations of the author and together with Arthur help to make the book the thoroughly enjoyable and extravagant tale that it is. After Arthur and Ford, who is a native of a region of the galaxy near Betelgeuse, are rescued by a Vogon spaceship at “an improbability level of two to the power of two hundred and seventy-six thousand to one against—possibly much higher,” the two friends eventually meet up with Zaphod, Trillian and Marvin. The rodents decide These five to attempt to buy ridiculous figures then pro- Arthur’s brain. ceed to travel to Magrathea, a mythical, now dormant, planet whose main industry, in its prime, was run by “engineers [who] sucked matter (Continued on page 8)

Chronicles of Waldorfia

Will You Feed The C.O.W.?  I would like to write weekly about  News  Creative  Column  Puzzle  Comic  Other  I would like to help edit articles.  I would like to help with layout.  I want to help, but unsure how.  I want the C.O.W. but cannot help. Name:_________________________ Email:_________________________

Chronicles of Waldorfia

Volume 1, Issue 3

Page 8

Guide A Well-Loved Novel Will It Cow-ntinue? from which Arthur and his through white holes in space friends escape unharmed, the to form it into dream plan- five decide to eat lunch at The ets—gold planets, platinum Restaurant at the End of the planets [and] soft rubber plan- Universe. Thus ends what has ets with lots of earthquakes.” become a well-loved and faOnce they arrive, they meet mous novel. Its story is continSlartibartfast, who is one such ued in Adams’ following book, engineer. The Restaurant at Ar thur is “In the beginning the the End of the Unithen introduced Universe was created. verse. to two mice who This has made a lot of When I consider once lived on his people very angry and the characteristics home planet, su- been widely regarded of Douglas Adams, pervising the the one that I find as a bad move.” completion of a the most notable is massive program that was his very unusual sense of hubeing executed by the most mor. So I will conclude with a powerful computer in exis- quote from The Restaurant at tence, the earth. Because the the End of the Universe which mice’s so carefully devised is very typical of Adams. scheme was ended along with “In the beginning the Unithe earth only five minutes verse was created. This has prior to the point at which made a lot of people very anthey would have discovered gry and been widely regarded the “Question to the Ultimate as a bad move.” Perhaps one Answer,” the rodents decide can now understand why to attempt to buy Arthur’s Douglas Adams became so brain, in which the question is popular so quickly. supposedly written. After the ensuing battle, (Continued from page 7)

Chronicles of Waldorfia

Survey What is your favorite class? ______________________________ Favorite part of the auction? ______________________________ Death by vampire or werewolf? ______________________________ Ramsey’s Kitchen Nightmares or Bourdain: No Reservations? ______________________________ See the results in the next C.O.W. after Easter vacation, April 20, 2009!

(Continued from page 7)

age, our layout team of about three people inputs three articles within an hour. Considering that there are generally sixteen articles submitted each week, this task is definitely one of the hardest. I would say that if we were able to have consistent system setup for layout, I could see the C.O.W. continuing beyond this block. Another thing to consider when publishing is, are we going to have consistent contributors, or is it just whoever wants to contribute an article that week, can. If we have consistent contributors, we'll be able to keep a more robust publication. However, we first need to establish people who actually want to contribute on a weekly basis. I would rather have this than having to constantly solicit articles from people just to

I see the C.O.W. as an important space for the expression of ideas from DWHS students. I hope By John Reinhart some students will step

Note from the Editor

make sure that there is enough content in that week's issue. I, myself, feel that it would be a great thing for the high school if this publication continued well past the current block. I would also commit time to contributing to the publication in the form of articles, as well as layout. However, I have increasing doubts about continuing the publication beyond its initial termination date. Unless, we rally up people soon (before spring break), I don't think there will be enough interest in keeping a weekly distribution of these articles. Hopefully we can get people to coordinate this thing in the coming week. Otherwise, I think it was a great run for the Chronicles of Waldorfia.

forward to continue this publication. I am happy to continue providing support, but it is up to you to continue this publication.

Blood-Sucking Death? 67%: Yes! (Continued from page 7)

kill the vampire and feed it to the werewolf, and then eat the werewolf,” and insisted that it was “impossible!” for him to become the meal. Because both

vampires and werewolves are (that we know of) fictional, everyone is allowed to come up with their own version of how one or the other would kill them. To one person, a vampire could be a

cold, pale, vicious creature from Transylvania, while to another, it could simply mean Robert Pattinson. And so, I leave you with one question: Which would you rather be killed by?

Chronicles of Waldorfia

Volume 1, Issue 3 Page 9

Write! Writing for the C.O.W. Spells Success for Students By John Reinhart In the first year of the Denver Waldorf High School, three students sat down together and decided the school needed a newspaper. In those days the high school was an amorphous beast, constantly changing teachers, locations, and courses. Alex Koutsares, Nate Miller, and Oscar Levin saw opportunity and potential in that flexibility. They drafted Lend Me Your Ears, a student-run weekly publication. I joined the staff the following year. Here are a few intriguing statistics. Half of that original four-student staff continued to pursue journalistic writing after high school. Nate Miller is currently the Assistant City Editor at the Greeley Tribune. Two staff members are finishing PhD programs, and one has a Master’s. Why write for the C.O.W.? Look at the numbers.

Grueling Gossip Group Goes Gaga Gossip Group here, your one and only (reliable) source into the scandalous lives of Waldorf's elite. Gladys: “Last week we brought you the troubles of the Junior Class in the high school. This week we are pleased to present you with the dirty little secrets of none other than the sophomores!” Gregg: “New couple alert! Recently the newest addition of the class, a strikingly beautiful Keisha, has struck the fancy of the school's Irishman, Finnegan O'Malley. The two have been spotted hanging out quite a bit, and sources close to the new couple state that 'they have a special bond.'“ Gladys: “Those two are just the sweetest thing! They're like a combination of peaches and deep fried Twinkies. Keisha and Finnegan are the type of couple that finishes each others sentences, peel off each others sunburns, and share just about everything, from their Kevin Jonas tablecloth scarves to their toothbrushes. In fact, I don't believe I've seen a better suited pair since you and me, Greggy-kins.” Gregg: “It's true! However, so much scandal is involved with this relationship! If Keisha and Finn are an item, then what about Keisha's super-

wait any longer!” Gladys: “It's wonderful to see the fruits of our labor! Who says the gossiping is a frivolous pastime? I think Gregg and I soundly disprove the opinions of the cynics who say our life's work is lacking in substance. In fact, quite often Greggins and I are right on the money with our speculations. Remember what happened last year, sweetheart? Gregg: “I remember it as if it were yesterday! You and I were sitting on the porch discussing the Jonas Brothers; my favorite band!” Gladys: “Oh those handsome boys, I just can’t get enough of them! I own three of their posters and a shirt dedicated to Nick!” Gregg: “It’s true. They are, as the kids these days say, ‘the bomb’!” (The two become engrossed in a discussion of who is better: Nick or Joe, and a half an hour later, start singing their favorite Jonas Brothers songs. Once Gregg becomes involved in a very vigorous air-guitar solo rendition of “Lovebug,” it becomes apparent that gossip time is over for the week.) You know you love us, XOXO --Gossip Group

Write for the C.O.W., man! [email protected]

Bart Simpson © Matt Groening

The Chronicles of Waldorfia is published by the Denver Waldorf High School Eleventh Grade. This publication is in conjunction with a block about journalism and under the supervision of John Reinhart. The C.O.W. welcomes your feedback. Please direct your correspondence to [email protected]. The C.O.W. does not necessarily represent the views of the Denver Waldorf School or its community.

model girlfriend?! Someone is being unfaithful...and the question is, with who? The kilted laddie, or the fairest in all the land? It looks like either way, our little friend Keisha has some explaining to do!” Gladys: “Meanwhile, there is some serious hoo-ha regarding select members of the sophomore boys and their increasing obsession with video games. Apparently, the boys are now referring to gaming as “practice,” and therefore elevating the status of playing video games from a waste of time to a skillful feat. Personally, I don't understand the interest in video games at all. In my experience, the game characters have feet that are disproportionately large for their bodies.” Gregg: “I am horrible at those games. I always end up shooting my own teammate!” Gladys: “You would, Greggers.” Gregg: (Ignoring that last comment) “Today we got the invitation to Sam and Dylan's wedding! It seems as if our comments a few weeks ago made them realize that it's better to just tie the knot now rather than

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Chronicles Chronicles of of Waldorfia Waldorfia

Volume 1, Issue 3 Volume 1, Issue 3

WWI Soldier’s Diary of an Ohio School Principal By George Bradford by train for Toledo. Here we embarked for our journey southward to Ft. Thomas, Kentucky. We stayed together on our trip to the recruiting station in Kentucky. On the train we were a motley crew of American laddies that most of whom used the convenient vocabulary of the street and factory, but likewise the most of whom were boys ready to do the good turn in the rough and ready way. Our jolly spirit kept our hearts dancing with his wit and droll shouts of “We’re going to the Hamburg show.” Friday, May 10, 1918 The Ohio river was Friday was a mile stone day in my life – an hour muddy as I have always heard which marked the beginning it to be, but it surprised me of a new mode of life which because it was so narrow. Afat that time began to be disci- ter crossing it we were bowled plined according to army along eastward with the Ohio regulations. On that day I be- to the left and the verdant came a soldier in the service Kentucky hills to our right. of my country having been We detrained at the Ft. Thodrawn by lot into the select mas station where we began army. Previously I had volun- our climb up the hill to the teered to join the army as an camp. We were soon led to the applicant to the officers train- mess and by eleven o’clock ing camp at which time I was were tagged and soon were led not to enter, on account of the our barracks where we lost no large number of men apply- time in turning in. ~o~ ing. A Sunday, May g u s h i n g Also I wrote to the little 12th, 1918 s h o w e r girl back in Ohio who is I arose in the welcomed morning with a waiting for me. a n d slight attack of drenched me just before I left the blues which were soon home at Clyde where my dis pe l l e d. S unda y wa s brother Arthur and his wife Mother’s Day and I was thankstarted with me. Our county ful I have a mother to write to quota met at Fremont where and I wrote to her. Also I we formally became soldiers. wrote to the little girl back in After listening to an admira- Ohio who is waiting for me. ble address by a man whose Some of us boys went to some is in the service, we left the barber shop but returned Editor’s Note: The C.O.W. is proud to present three entries from the World War I diary of George Bradford. Mr. Bradford, who grew up on a fruit orchard in Wooster, Ohio, was 22 when he wrote these entries. Mr. Bradford never married. Though he was engaged to the “girl back in Ohio” mentioned here, she died in the flu epidemic of 1918 while he was away. Mr. Bradford later became an Engligh professor at Wooster College in Ohio.

after hearing various ac- which was the corral for the counts of exorbitant prices mules and the place for the charged, to shave ourselves wagons, carts etc. After bebefore mess. ing relieved I went to the In the afternoon were guard house and discovered signed up our qualification some one else on my bunk, cards. The man who wrote therefore I lay out on the out mine cheered me much. ground with a comrade by As I sat down he asked for the side until another comsome water and when it came rade roughly awakened me he offered me a drink. He and I was forced to seek then informed me that he had other quarters than his. I been in the service only two went into the guard to my weeks, had been a principal bunk jerked one of my blanof a school previous to entry kets away and rolled up on into army the ground for the service and I went to the guard remainder of the as this last house and discov- four hours. I was had been my ered some one else tired during my experience next guard which on my bunk. also we felt lasted till 10 a.m. better acBeing a recruit I quainted. need lots of instruction and He said he thought I had the officers of the day came some chance to get some around with the sergeant and special work. My spirits told me how to challenge, arose immediately for I do etc. During my first watch I not want to get into infantry called the corporal of the service, altho I am ready to guard to take care of a straygive my life at any time for ing horse. I was worried by my country. I do not care voices and lights on the opwhat the danger is but I posite side of the stream runwould like to get into a kind ning past the corral, but on of work which will help me calling the corporal (before in civil life. for the horse) he found that Some pals and I spent the voices were of men from part of the evening in the the corral on a picket line. Y.M. hut where I met the During the afternoon of first lad whom I knew before Saturday we rested some and coming, and he was Mez- we new men had drill in zatero from Wooster College. manual of arms. I made some I also met his new pal – a effort in learning the general college man. orders and mastered them. The officer of the day had ~o~ told me on each of my other Saturday, June 8 I am tired tonight. I had watches that I should learn my first experience doing them by this next watch. guard duty, during the last twenty-four hours. I had to guard “pose number two”

Chronicles of Waldorfia

Volume 1, Issue 3

Volume 1, Issue 3 Page 11

Will It Danger Cow-ntinue? Disney Horoscopes: Doom, Dismay, By Laney Harden and Chloe Prendergast Aries: This week you will feel confident about making positive changes in your life! Make sure to look towards the future with an enthusiastic attitude, because the best is yet to come! However, when it comes to changing yourself, be aware of others and don’t become selfish! Your Aries is: Aladdin. Taurus: When you make up your mind, there is no stopping you! Your determined spirit will take you great places. However, you like to feel secure and safe. If you feel threatened, you immediately shut down. Make sure you don’t put yourself into any awkward situations. Your Taurus is: Snow White. Gemini: You are a true chameleon. You have the ability to adapt to any type of environment. This will prove to be helpful later in life. Be careful not to become over-versatile, or you will forget who you truly are! Your Gemini is: Belle (from Beauty and the Beast) Cancer: You are known for your loving and sympathetic nature! Everyone genuinely likes you - even those who wont willingly admit it! You are prone to have lots of mood swings though, so be aware of other’s feelings. And don’t forget to let go to the past and move on. Your Cancer is: Sebastian (from The Little Mermaid).

Leo: Being broad-minded, you are able to see beyond just the basics. Others envy this trait, but do not become pompous, for it will only lead you down a dark path. Instead, follow the yellowbrick road of understanding. Your Leo is: the Beast (from Beauty and the Beast) Virgo: Your practical thinking will kick in this week. Grey areas in your life will suddenly become crystal clear. However, not all the decisions you must make will be easy. Try to choose the best solution, instead of the easiest, and it will all pay off in the end. Your Virgo is: Pocahontas. Libra: Your diplomatic side will shine through this week as you may have some challenges ahead of you. Don’t let this discourage you or change you in any way. Stay strong! Your Libra is: Prince Eric (from The Little Mermaid). Scorpio: You are a very forceful and obstinate person. It’s hard for you to let others have their way, so try and be patient and don’t let this stubborn side push through too much. Your Scorpio is: Jasmine (from Aladdin). Sagittarius: Nothing looks bad to you this week, as you tend to look at the world through rose-colored glasses. This optimistic view of the world is a great thing, but could get in the way of reality if you let it. Your Sagittarius is: Cinderella Capricorn: You are very good worker because of your practical and careful nature. You have the patience and perseverance to get everything done, so go for it! Your Capricorn is: Prince Charming. Aquarius: Friendly and loyal, you

really enjoy spending time with your good friends. However, if something upsets you, you tend to pull away and become very irritated with everyone around you. Be careful to not let this happen. Your Aquarius is: Aurora (from Sleeping Beauty) Pisces: Because you are so easily swayed by those around you, you will go somewhere unexpected this week. Let your imagination carry you when this happens and enjoy the ride. Your Pisces is: Ariel (from The Little Mermaid).

Bookbinder’s Awl By Terri Reinhart When I began teaching bookbinding, I needed to provide my students with proper tools, including a bookbinder's awl for piercing holes in each section of pages. I couldn't afford to purchase enough for a class, so I decided to make my own. It's ridiculously easy. Basically, I just glue a needle in a cork. For each awl, you will need: one cork champagne corks and corks from cream sherry work especially well, one needle - size 2 crewel needles, one pair of pliers, and tacky glue. Using the pliers, The finished awl. make the hole in the cork for the needle by pushing the needle in point first. Then take the needle out of the cork, put a bit of glue at the "eye" end of the needle and push that end in the cork, using the pliers. What was so lovely is that I found these awls to be much, much better than the professional bookbinder's awl that I purchased!

Chronicles of Waldorfia

Volume 1, Issue 3

Page 12

Waldorf Crossword Across 1. & circumstance 4. Fairy talers 7. Often confused with baseball 10. Boiler oiler 11. Now run by Leon Panetta 13. DWHS rag 14. Vowels 2 and 1 15. Japanese all-time homerun leader 16. Fermented fuel 18. Invert “her” 19. Waldorf’s three Rs 20. Commonly mis-spelled abbreviation 22. Chesterton’s first two 23. u.s.w. in English 25. Bundled geese 27. Generic masculine pronoun 28. When two complete sentences connect incorrectly 29. 1876 state 30. OE soon 32. Magician’s “__da!” 33. Eleventh grade pet rabbit 34. Hindes by another name 36. “Waldorf Teacher Man” 38. Surprised utterance, Yid. 39. Everyone

40. Seventh First 41. and so on… 43. “___ how a rose” 45. Playful seniors 48. Napster opponent, acronym 49. Basic unit of electric current 50. DWS marketing committee abbr. 52. Don’t try to write out this one all the way, math. 53. American philosophy teacher, not George 56. That is 57. Founder J., not Jaehnig 58. Science, not sun 60. Ma Bell’s other moniker 60. Prickly playwright 62. Sticky substance Down 1. Meets at infinity 2. Awesome expression 3. “Lions and tigers and bear, oh ___” 4. Tenth grade’s favorite activity 5. Warshington’s ambassador 6. Circled, med. history

The objective of sudoku is to fill each column, each row, and each of the nine 3x3 blocks with numbers 1 through 9 without repeating a number in any single column, row, or block. This week’s sudoku puzzle is moderately difficult. Created by Gautam Webb. Crossword created by John Reinhart

8. Communication diva 9. Bonding with Mrs. J in 9th 11. Genus Tetracerus, like yak 12. Texting of yesterday 16. Equal to one joule of energy per second 17. Ms. Rizo’s one 19. Outhouse elsewhere 20. Eureka state 24. Airport folks concerned with knitting needles 25. Waldorf alumnus, minus wal 26. Kindergarten ones 29. One nine 31. Corny state 33. Fish featured here 34. Original DWHS school colors 35. Famous for facing off with Wade 36. Note to follow so 40. Queen Johnson 42. “JerryPan” syn. 44. Mr. Johnson’s threat, pl. 46. Help! 47. She lost a letter 50. Vermont scooper classic size 53. Hitting below the belt 54. Cartwright club 55. Place to get stuck in Scotland 56. OJ judge 57. Gold rush place before Colorado 58. 12th grade abbr. 59. Short one of three possible