Issuu

BEN LOMOND

SPIRIT

MAGAZINE | VOL. 7 MARCH 2026

STANDING WITH IMMIGRANTS

Hundreds of students stage walkout to protest ICE

TABLE OF C BURTON CHILL

ASK A COP

Ice, Piper toys and lunches........................................

Teaching students about snowboarding, life..........

BROTHERS GRIMM LASSIES

Lassies complete season, look to future...................

Cover photo by Jack Tefertiller

MARIACHI FEST

12 13

Mariachi Festival comes to BLHS........................

ATHLETIC TRAINER

Ben Lomond trainer keeps BL athletes competing................................................

‘Spectaculathon’ will be anything but grim.........

CHEERLEADERS Team places 3rd in state, 5th in nation...............

CONTENTS CALENDAR

Events in March......................................................

Students walk in support of immigrants............

JROTC CRISP

HOT TAKES Which is best?..........................................................

ELEVATION 801

ICE WALKOUT

BL student to serve his country...........................

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JROTC HOBBS

Lifting each other to success.................................

BL senior hitting the mark...................................

HOPE SQUAD

SWIM TEAM

Spreading hope nationwide...................................

Swimming: The road to state...............................

Day three. Photo by Burton Chill

ASK A COP T

his month’s questions/ answers from School Resource Oﬃcer Reed Mackley with the Ogden Police Department …

Q: What is the Ogden Police Department’s stance on Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE)? A: I’ve been asked this a lot lately. Here goes … OPD does not proactively enforce federal immigration laws, participate in ICE raids, or inquire about immigration status during traffic stops or when taking reports from victims and witnesses. Some agencies have agreed to form an agreement with ICE. Ogden PD has chosen not to. We would prefer to focus on local criminal conduct, not someone’s immigration status. 4 | Ben Lomond Spirit Magazine

That’s a very insightful question, thank you for that!

Q: Follow-up question to that … What do you think about the increased media scrutiny of ICE agents currently? A: You guys ask tough questions, but they deserve honest answers. Here’s my personal take. I don’t recall in my lifetime there ever being such widespread and intense scrutiny on this particular group. I think it’s complicated by a number of factors. ICE recently hired a LOT of new agents. Anytime you hire a large number of people, your chances of those people making mistakes are going to increase. It’s just a numbers equation. I think it’s definitely politically driven, and all parties share in that. There’s certainly

ICE, PIPER TOYS AND LUNCHES

more video recordings of ICE Agents performing job functions than there used to be. I’ll finish by saying that whether or not you agree with our federal government and/or what ICE is currently doing, if you see ICE doing anything out in the city, record them if you like, but don’t interfere or impede what they’re doing; that’s a crime. On the slim chance you find yourself dealing with ICE … JUST COMPLY. If they’re in the wrong, sue their butts later. “Comply, Don’t Die” is good general advice for all of us. Q: On a lighter note, what is Piper’s favorite toy or treat? A: Piper loves balls. Tennis, soccer, volleyball, she

By SRO Reed Mackley just wants to chew on it or pop it. She’s quite partial to tearing apart stuffed animals as well. Her favorite treat is the treat in front of her face. We’ve literally not found a treat she won’t eat. Just make sure to ask me before you offer her one. She’s trying to watch her figure. Q: What is your favorite school lunch meal? A: First off, thanks for asking me about one of my favorite topics, food. Second, our lunch ladies do an amazing job taking care of us, don’t they? Make sure you thank them on your next trip through the line. Thirdly, it’s gotta be the Thanksgiving meal we have. Yo Marnie! Can we have that more than once a year? Pretty please?

LASSIES COMPLETE SEASON, LOOK TO FUTURE By BL Spirit staff

he Ben Lomond Lassies have completed another successful competition season.

The team made an incredible amount of growth during the season,” according to adviser Kimberly Hopkin. She said the improved their judges scores

LASSIES

at each competition, which was a team goal.

The Lassies have been invited to perform at the Ogden Hispanic Festival at 1:30 p.m. May 2. The group will perform its show routine.

The Lassies are looking to next year and will be holding tryouts on April 8-9. Clinics will run from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. April 8, with tryouts at 5 p.m. April 9. For more information, contact Ms. Hopkin in Room A102. Ben Lomond Spirit Magazine | 5

ATHLETIC TRAIN BEN LOMOND TRAINER KEEPS BL ATHLETES COMPETING

arch is National Athletic Training Month, so meet Ben Lomond’s athletic trainer of 33 years! Jeff Speckman is the athletic trainer here at Ben Lomond. His job is to care for athletes in various ways. This includes injury recognition and evaluation, emergency care, rehabilitation, and prevention of injury. Additionally, he is there to provide a support system of care and protection on and off the field, court, or whatever else an athlete might play on. “My job is to keep your son or daughter on the playing field, the court, as best I can, as long as it’s safe for them to do so,” Mr. Speckman said. “So I’m trying to protect them from injuring themselves more.” There are many ways Mr. Speckman keeps athletes safe and healthy. He provides protective taping, strengthening exercises, and braces for athletes who need them. One of his favorite parts of the job is doing rehabilitation with someone who has had surgery. He loves helping an athlete through this process and getting them ready to go back on the field, so they can succeed in their sport. One of the hardest things is the communication between many different people. Some parents have doctors 6 | Ben Lomond Spirit Magazine

By Brooklyn Richey, BL Spirit Staff they want their children to go to, but team doctors can be better trained to treat sports medicine issues. Ultimately, it’s up to the parents where they take their athletes. However, this requires a lot of communication between many different people, so Mr. Speckman can treat the athlete. He needs communication from the doctor about what their diagnosis is, a note brought back to him from the athlete, and communication from the parent. Mr. Speckman is loved by many athletes; many commented on how he has helped them. Sophomore Brooklynn Ferrin said, “Jeff has helped me more than anything. I forever appreciate Jeff for everything he has done for me.” Senior Brinley Carrier commented, “Jeff has not only helped me physically, but also mentally. He has gotten me through so much stuff, I will always and forever be grateful for him.” Senior Hadley Chadwick has a lot of gratitude for Mr. Speckman. She commented on how he impacts her and other athletes in many ways. “The support I have received from Jeff is like none other, Hadley said. “He only knows me as an athlete; he has no outside connection to any of us, but he always shows up to support. He isn’t just there to tape ankles; he builds relationships. He holds love for every single athlete and for the school

as a whole.” Hadley said she might not remember all the wins and losses of her high school career, but she will always remember Mr. Speckman and the impact he had. “He is more than just our athletic trainer; he is our friend,” she concluded. Sophomore Christopher Windley talked about how Mr. Speckman helps him get the water ready so he can take it out to the football team. And senior MacKyah Tuck had a lot to say about the athletic trainer and all that he does for the school. “Jeff is the backbone of every athletic team at Ben Lomond,” she said. “He has helped so many of us athletes who get hurt or injured to be able to get back to playing as quickly and safely as we can.” MacKyah explained how he never fails to make people laugh and is always real with athletes. He does so much for each athletic program at Ben Lomond, and she says he deserves every bit of recognition, thanks, and credit. “I think I can speak for everyone when I say that we love Jeff and we wouldn’t be the athletes we are without him,” MacKyah said.

NER

Photos by Brooklyn Richey

BURTON CHILL TEACHING STUDENTS ABOUT SNOWBOARDING, LIFE

he Burton Chill snowboarding program is a nonprofit organization that has been at Ben Lomond for three years. The program began in Vermont in 1995 and has since expanded across the United States, reaching Utah in 2003. Students who have never skied or snowboarded are chosen by Ben Lomond faculty members Jack Bice and Alex Powell to join the program. The two teachers look for students who have great attendance and good grades, because participating in this program means they miss a little bit of school. This program aims to empower young people with the skills necessary for success in life. It teaches students to overcome challenges, reach their goals, and build confidence through board sports lessons. Dallon Williams, the program director, explained, “Each lesson is based on one of six core values that are designed to help the kids on their snowboard, but also in their everyday lives.” The Ben Lomond program runs every Wednesday for six weeks, starting in January, at Powder Mountain ski resort. Each day starts with a slideshow that goes over the core values from previous weeks. Students take the core value and apply it to their day on the mountain and then apply it throughout the week. The following week, 8 | Ben Lomond Spirit Magazine

By Brooklyn Richey, BL Spirit Staff they report back on that value. The six core values are: show respect, develop courage, build patience, practice persistence, take responsibility, and feel pride. Not only do organizers want to help the students develop these core values, but they also seek to improve accessibility to outdoor sports. “We have the opportunity to bring these kids up here at no cost to them and give them all the gear they need so they can experience these sports,” Mr. Williams said. All students receive gear to use over the six weeks, which includes coats, snowpants, gloves, snowboards, snowboots, etc. This gear is loaned to them, so they use the same gear each week. The Chill program introduces students to outdoor sports and gives them opportunities to continue to be involved in the sport. There are additional programs students can participate in to help them find employment in the industry, get snowboarding gear, and help them continue in the sport. Additionally, the Chill program welcomes students with diverse identities and backgrounds. According to the program’s website: “Over 70% of Chill participants identify as BIPOC (Black, Indigenous and People of Color) across North America.” The program

seeks to give students the opportunity to learn these sports that they might not have had access to otherwise. The Burton Chill program is a nonprofit organization. Students who participate pay nothing; the organization covers the cost for everything, including gear, passes, and transportation. The program is always seeking donations of gear and money. The organization also needs volunteers to help run the programs. Mr. Williams explained how students show exponential growth throughout the six-week program. They start off timid, nervous, and frustrated with how difficult snowboarding is. This all changes by the final week. “Everyone is just stoked and happy and excited and really excited to share with me, like, ‘Hey, I got my S-turns today!’ or ‘I came down without falling!’ and they’re so excited,” Mr. Williams said. “Seeing that confidence build and the pride they feel in themselves is really, really rewarding.” For Williams, that’s his favorite part of the program. Mr. Powell loves seeing students learn how to snowboard and loves to see it click for them. “As a teacher, I’ll kind of get that, but it’s academic,” he said. “Students are

Burton Chill participants. Photo by Brooklyn Richey

like, ‘Oh, cool, I get it now.’ But when they’re snowboarding, there’s just this huge sense of joy and accomplishment that is just the best thing. I love it.” Participant MacKyah Tuck, a senior, explained how supportive and encouraging everyone is in the program. “It’s just a good place to be and good people to be around, which makes it all the more fun,” she said. Senior Patton Brun explained that the program gave her the opportunity to do something she never experienced before. “When Bice came up to me and asked if I would be interested in snowboarding, I thought no way in a million years would I ever want to do some-

thing like that,” she said. “And then I started it, and it’s so fun, and I wish I could do it again.” Chill also gives students the opportunity to connect with other students on a deeper level. “A lot of people I knew before coming up here, but I haven’t really talked to them until I got up here,” said junior Marcus Brown.

get back up when you fall.” It’s a very supportive community at Chill, according to Axer. “Everyone is super chill to hang out with and great. And I haven’t experienced any bullying,” he said. Ultimately, Axer loved the community he found in the Chill program.

He further explained that he can hang out with his friends and connect with more people through this program.

The Burton Chill program combines community, life skills, and board sports. It aims to build good habits in students’ lives and get them more involved.

Senior Axer Draney is a deaf student who participates in the program. He explained, “The instructors are very patient, and they really teach you how to snowboard. They motivate you to

For more information on the program, check the organization’s website at chill.org, or see Mr. Bice or Mr. Powell in Rooms D217 and D218, respectively. Ben Lomond Spirit Magazine | 9

Day five, Senior Patton Brun. Photo courtesy Burton Chill

Day two. Photo courtesy Burton Chill

Participants at the bottom of the hill. Photo by Brooklyn Richey

Day one. Photo courtesy Burton Chill

Day two, Junior Marcus Brown. Photo courtesy Burton Chill

Day five, Juniors Tyler Gabrielle and Zeneli Ramirez-Garcia. Photo courtesy Burton Chill

Day two. Photo courtesy Burton Chill

Day six, Juniors Tyler Gabrielle and Marcus Brown. Photo courtesy Burton Chill

Day four. Photo courtesy Burton Chill

Day one. Photo courtesy Burton Chill Participants at the end of the night, eating and recapping how the day went. Photo by Brooklyn Richey

Day four, Senior MacKyah Tuck. Photo courtesy Burton Chill

BROTHERS GRIMM ‘SPECTACULATHON’ WILL BE ANYTHING BUT GRIM By Emre Neville, BL Spirit Staff

“T

he Brothers Grimm Spectaculathon” by Don Zolidis is a storybook rewrite. A whopping 209 classic tales retold onstage as two narrators and an ensemble race to cram them all into one hour of insanity. The show runs at 7 p.m. March 25-27 at Ben Lomond High School. Cinderella, Snow White, Hansel and Gretel, and a whole cast of characters are back, but not the way you remember them. Expect twisted fairy tales that flip the originals upside down, audience interaction that pulls you into the story, and lightning fast scenes that never let the energy drop. The show constantly breaks the fourth wall, pokes fun at happily-ever-after, and dares you to keep up. So if you like fast paced comedy, unexpected twists, death, and seeing your favorite fairy tales retold onstage you won’t want to miss this. Come see “The Brothers Grimm Spectaculathon” and find out what happens when every story gets told at once.

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M MARIACHI FEST MARIACHI FESTIVAL COMES TO BLHS

By BL Spirit Staff

he first Ogden School District Mariachi Festival comes to Ben Lomond High School in March, bringing with it the traditions of Mexican folk music. The festival begins at 6 p.m. Monday, March 9, in the BLHS auditorium. Admission is free, although donations are appreciated. The event will feature performances by Mariachi de la Montana de Ben Lomond, Liberty Mariachi, Mariachi Tigres de Ogden, Mariachi Osos de Mound Fort, Tierras Altas de Highland, East Ridge Mariachi, and Ben Lomond Beginning Mariachi. All ages are welcome at the event. Ben Lomond’s music department will take part in a number of other events during the spring music season, including:  Jazz Band Festival, 2:30 p.m. March 3, BLHS auditorium.  MFJH Concert, 7 p.m. March 6, Mound Fort Junior High School.  Solo Festival, March 11, Logan High School.  Bagpipe Fundraising Concert, 6 p.m. March 13, BLHS Auditorium.  Concert Band Festival, March 18, Ogden High School.

 Orchestra Festival, March 23, Logan High School.  State Mariachi Competition, all

day April 17, Utah Cultural Center. For more information, contact Daniel Tracy in Room A123. Ben Lomond Spirit Magazine | 13

CHEERLEADERS TEAM PLACES 3RD IN STATE, 5TH IN NATION

By Leilani Watene, Special to BL Spirit Staff

he Ben Lomond High School Cheer Team made a case for being among the country’s elite cheerleading programs with a couple of big finishes in a monumental year. The squad placed high in the dance, cheer, and show events at this year’s 3A Co-ed Overall Championships of the Utah High School Activities Association, held Jan. 23 at Utah Valley University. As a result, Ben Lomond finished 3rd overall in state. Then, at the end of January, Ben Lo14 | Ben Lomond Spirit Magazine

mond went to Cheer Nationals in Orlando, Fla., and finished 5th. This year’s achievements reflect countless hours of dedication, teamwork, and perseverance. The journey began with rigorous tryouts, where athletes demonstrated their tumbling, stunting, and dance abilities. Intense training sessions followed, where team members focused on perfecting routines, building strength and endurance, and fostering a strong sense of unity.

Ben Lomond coaches Shara Gooda, Ashley Watkins, and Tristan Ross played a crucial role in honing the team’s skills, strategizing routines, and instilling a winning mentality. Overcoming challenges like injuries, setbacks, and fierce competition required resilience and unwavering commitment. Placing 5th in the nation and 3rd in state was just the cherry on top – a testament to the squad’s exceptional talent and hard work, solidifying their place among the country’s best cheerleading programs.

C A L E N D A R

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MARCH Sunday

Monday

Tuesday

2  Mini Lassies, 5:30 p.m.  Cheer Open Gym, 7-9 p.m.

 Girls Golf at Stansbury, 7 a.m.-3 p.m.  Baseball vs. North Summit, 3 p.m.  Mariachi, 6 p.m.  Cheer Open Gym, 7-9 p.m.

 Term 4 begins  Cheer Tryouts Open Gym, 7-9 p.m.

 Baseball at South Summit, 3:30 p.m.  Softball at South Summit, 3:30 p.m.

 District Aerospace Manufacturing Day in the gym, 7:30 a.m.-noon  Jazz Festival, 2:30-7 p.m.  Baseball vs. Granger, 3 p.m.  Soccer at Roy, 3:30 p.m.  Mini Lassies, 5:30 p.m.  Boys Volleyball vs. Bonneville, 6 p.m.

 Choir Concert, 6 p.m.  Boys Volleyball vs. Northridge, 6:30 p.m.

 Las  Boy  Che

 FBL Conf a.m. Soft 3 p.m  Tra  Soc  Boy er, 6  Che

 ACT Testing (11th graders), 7 a.m.-3 p.m.  Baseball at Ogden High, 3:30 p.m.  Softball at Ogden High, 3:30 p.m.  Soccer vs. Morgan, 4 p.m.

ST. PATRICK’S DAY

 Girl 3 p.m  Trac  Che Paren

 Girls Golf at Cranefield, 7 a.m.-3 p.m.  City County Track at Roy, 3 p.m.  Soccer at Logan, 3:30 p.m.  Softball vs. Provo, 3:30 p.m.  Tennis at APA South, 3:30 p.m.  Cheer Clinics, 6-8 p.m.  Boys Volleyball at Grantsville, 6 p.m.

30  Teacher Comp Day (no school)  SPRING BREAK! (No school)

 Che  Bro thon,

Wednesday

Thursday

Friday

ssie Review, 4-6 p.m. ys Volleyball at Roy, 6 p.m. eer Open Gym, 7-9 p.m.

 Boys Soccer vs. Weber, 4 p.m.

LA at Layton ference Center, 7 -6 p.m. tball at Summit Academy, m. ack at Ogden High, 3 p.m. ccer at Westfield, 4 p.m. ys Volleyball vs. Bear Rivp.m. eer Open Gym, 7-9 p.m.

ls Golf at Remuda, 7 a.m.m. ck at Logan, 3 p.m. eer Tryouts Open Gym/ nt Meeting

eer Clinics, 6-8 p.m. others Grimm Spectacula, 7 p.m.

 End of Term 3  FBLA at Layton Conference Center, 7 a.m.-6 p.m.

19  Baseball vs. Grantsville, 3:30 p.m.  Soccer at Ogden High, 3:30 p.m.  Softball vs. Grantsville, 3:30 p.m.  Boys Volleyball vs. Ogden High, 6 p.m.

 Girls Golf at Oquirrh Hills, 7 a.m.-3 p.m.  Art 1030 at Union Station, 1:30 p.m.  Baseball at Morgan, 3:30 p.m.  Softball at Morgan, 3:30 p.m.  Tennis at Logan, 3:30 p.m.  Cheer Clinics, 6-8 p.m.  Boys Volleyball at Morgan, 6 p.m.  Brothers Grimm Spectaculathon, 7 p.m.

Saturday

 At-home learning day (no school)  Boys Volleyball vs. UMA, 6 p.m.

 JROTC Drill at West High, 6:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m.

 Teacher Work Day (no school)  Baseball at Hunter, 3:30 p.m.  Bagpipes, 6 p.m.  Boys Volleyball vs. Box Elder, 6:30 p.m.

 Softball at St. George Classic

 Student of the Month, 7 a.m.  State Debate Tournament at Ogden High, 12:15 p.m.  Dance Co. at Granger, 1:30 p.m.

28  Boys Volleyball Tournament at Box Elder

 Brothers Grimm Spectaculathon, 7 p.m.

Ben Lomond Spirit Magazine | 17

HOT TAK T

his month for HOT TAKES, we interviewed 40 students on their preferences for the following questions…

Summer and Winter: 1 Winter: 10 Spring: 16

WHICH SEASON IS THE BEST? SPRING, SUMMER, FALL, OR WINTER?

With March comes the changing of the seasons. At least it normally does – Utah can be a little tricky. For the most part, we can eventually expect winter to fully leave and spring to come. The spread for answers was pretty even throughout the interview process, but at the end, spring pulled ahead with 40% of students picking it as the best season. Next came winter, with 20% of students choosing it. Fall was the next favorite with 17.5% of students’ votes, summer was close behind with 15% of students picking it. Lastly, we had 2.5% of students pick both summer and winter as their favorite.

Fall: 7

Summer: 6

WHICH IS BETTER: MARCH MADNESS OR THE SUPER BOWL?

February’s big event for sports is the Super Bowl, and March houses the college basketball tournament, March Madness. So which one do students prefer? Students had a clear favorite, with 55% of students choosing the Super Bowl as the better event. A total of 27.5% of students chose March Madness as their favorite. Some students don’t watch either, with 15% of students choosing neither as their favorite. Finally, 2.5% of students chose the Super Bowl half time show as their favorite. Senior Sierra Goodwin chose neither as her favorite and said, “Unless it’s for the Super Bowl halftime show, I don’t like football at all.”

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KES

WHICH IS BEST? By Brooklyn Richey, BL Spirit Staff No: 21 Yes: 19

Sophomores Camilla Arroyo, Nhyema Simpson and Trinytee Martinez

DOES PINEAPPLE BELONG ON PIZZA?

This last question is a widely debated question. Most people either love it, or hate it. So what do Ben Lomond students think? The answers were pretty equal throughout the entire process, and one answer just barely pulled ahead at the end. Taking the lead, with 52.5% of students’ votes, is the idea that pineapple does not belong on pizza. Those who believe it does belong on pizza took 47.5% of the vote.

None: 6

Superbowl halftime show: 1

Sophomore Nhyema Simpson said pineapple does not belong on pizza and said, “I’ve never tried it, but it looks gross.”

March Madness: 11

Superbowl: 22

Sophomore Bostyn Gooda, Junior Breannah Lamere-Alvarado and Junior McKynlee Cavalli

ELEVATION 801 LIFTING EACH OTHER TO SUCCESS By Ty Stuart, BL Spirit Staff

he start of the new year brought a new program to Ben Lomond High School.

life to help them build their potential to do whatever sport they choose to do later on in high school.

The Elevation 801 program is an athletic program, run by coaches at the high school, that was designed to get kids involved in weightlifting. The goal of this program is to develop skills in junior high school students all across the Ogden community – skills they will be able to use throughout their lives.

The district-wide program has highlighted a need for programs all across the community to get students of all ages up and active. Ogden School District Superintendent Luke Rasmussen said the district was asked if it could give support to the program, and he said it was a very simple decision for him to approve support for the program.

The program was spearheaded by Ty Smith, a sports coach and physical education teacher at Ben Lomond. “Basically, we did want to set up an after-school program for junior high kids to come over (to the high school) and focus on physical development, teamwork, goal-setting, and leadership skills,” Coach Smith said. “Obviously, we want to help them stay active and engage in after school activities.” The focus of the program is to get students excited about weightlifting and physical activity in order to prepare them for future opportunities in sports later on in high school. The program gives these younger students the opportunity to become familiar and comfortable with physical exercise, which is a skill many are lacking. Coach Smith said athletes need to be exposed to weight training earlier in 20 | Ben Lomond Spirit Magazine

“This program has immense value.” Superintendent Rasmussen said. “The coaches at Ben Lomond are doing something special for our community, opening doors for students who might not otherwise have had these experiences.” The program is giving students the opportunity, not only for physical exercise, but to have a safe space after school to spend time with friends and connect with others in the community who want the best for them. “We want to get kids into building good habits,” said Tyelor Wilson, a coach and teacher at Ben Lomond involved with the program. “We want to get them, you know, off the streets, doing good things, building each other, building character – that goal would be all around to see more improve-

ment as student athletes come into Ben Lomond.” To enable students of all backgrounds to be able to participate in the program, the Ogden School District is providing funding to bus students from their junior high schools to the high school. This highlights the willingness of those involved in this program to provide for the needs of members in the community. “We have educators who consistently step up to do what’s best for kids,” said Superintendent Rasmussen. “They meet students where they are, and create meaningful, positive opportunities.” The students involved have expressed their interest and excitement in the program. Students Eli Fryer and Isaac Barley from Highland Junior High School say they enjoy the workouts because they are getting them in better shape. Others point to the support and helpful advice from the coaches. “The coaches are really nice and supportive,” said Adais Harrison, a junior high student involved in the program. “We do different workouts, I get advice, and I get good feedback.” Students who are involved enjoy coming back each day. They say it isn’t something that they are forced to be

doing for a class. They genuinely want to be there and come back the next day. The program is held from 3:30 to 4:45 p.m. Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays at the Ben Lomond High School Athletic Center. So who is the program open to?

“Anybody in the Ogden community, honestly.” Coach Smith said. “We’ve even started accepting some fifth and sixth graders in, but the target is the seventh, eighth and ninth grade and trying to introduce them (to) weight training.” Organizers say they want as many students as possible involved in the program.

For those interested in joining the program, contact Coach Smith at smith.ty@ogdensd.org. “After seeing the great success of the program in its first year,” Superintendent Rasmussen concludes, “I believe this is something we need to continue and build upon.” Ben Lomond Spirit Magazine | 21

HOPE SQUAD SPREADING HOPE NATIONWIDE By Haylee Larson, BL Spirit Staff

ope Squad is a nationwide organization dedicated to sucicide prevention, awareness, recovery, and spreading hope. At Ben Lomond High School, Hope Squad members actively participate in service activities and suicide prevention walks that help raise awarness throughout our community. Hope Squad is made up of student leaders who are committed to supporting others and creating a safe and inclusive environment. The program is centered around core competencies proven to reduce the risk of suicide through age-approrate lessons and open discussion. Members gain a deeper understanding of sensitive topics, so when the time comes they feel prepared to have the difficult but important talks with peers who may be struggling. Throughout the year, Ben Lomond’s Hope Squad organize activities for Suicide Prevention Month, Young Relationships Week, Hope Week, and Suicide Prevention Week. The group’s motto for 2026 is “Together we thrive,” reflecting the commit22 | Ben Lomond Spirit Magazine

ment to standing united in support of one another. This year, Hope Squad has done a Walk of Solidarity for those who have lost their lives to suicide, to support those who are grieving, and to stand with anyone who has faced challenges with suicidal thoughts. The group also participates in the annual NUHOPE Walk, where Highland Junior High School, Mound Fort Junior High School, and the city of Ogden come together to spread hope across Northern Utah. According to the NUHOPE Task Force, it is “a coalition of mental health/social service providers, educators, survivors, law enforcement, veteran’s advocates, and concerned citizens working together to increase suicide awareness and prevention in Northern Utah.” Beyond district events, Hope Squad at Ben Lomond also contributes to school spirit weeks and the Pioneer Day Parade, hosts lunch activities, and collaborates with the YCC Family Crisis Center. Through both school and community involvement, Hope Squad continues to promote connection, leadership and hope for all.

ICE WALKOUT STUDENTS WALK IN SUPPORT OF IMMIGRANTS By Jack Tefertiller and Emre Neville, BL Spirit Staff

n February, Ben Lomond High School students staged a walkout during school hours to protest recent actions by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). Law enforcement estimates 350 to 400 students marched from the school down to Washington Boulevard. The event was mostly peaceful, although a few protesters reportedly threw water bottles and other items at hecklers, and one student was briefly detained. The walkout was organized by students Juliana Zamora and Paloma Rios Lopez. The two sophomores say they organized the protest to be able to have an “open voice” and to “speak out their opinions for them and the parents of students who couldn’t speak out for themselves.” Paloma said she and Juliana don’t regret organizing the walkout, but they do wish things had been handled differently with some of the changes they made to the walkout for safety issues. They were also disappointed with “the behavior of some people during the walkout,” referring to the incident with thrown bottles.

walkout talked about how they went to support the communities around them that have been affected by ICE. Mason Garner says he participated because it directly affected the communities that he is a part of. He also wants to show support in any way that he can. Others say they took part in the walkout because ICE affected their own families, many of whom immigrated to this country to give loved ones better opportunities in life. Diego Hernandez Osegera and Antonio Lagunas admitted they hadn’t expected such a big turnout for the protest. They believe the walkout was effective because it wasn’t just “somebody out there alone speaking out, but a lot of the community standing with them.” School Resource Officer Reed Mackley from Ogden Police Department was also at the walkout. He was careful to emphasize that anything he says is his own opinion and not the official view of OPD.

Juliana does believe “the walkout was effective in getting the message out because of the amount of people that attended.”

Officer Mackley says he spoke with the protest organizers before the event to make certain everyone would be safe.

Some of the students who attended the

“My interest was the safety, and their

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interest was the message,” he said. “I think they did a good job at that.” Before the students left, Officer Mackley reminded them to follow their leaders, stay on the sidewalks, and watch where they were going so they could stay out of the road. He then drove alongside the group as they walked down to 7th and Washington, where about 10 officers joined to help protect the students from traffic. For the most part, Officer Mackley said he was impressed by what he saw. “I saw a lot of students with passion, lots of cohesiveness, and love,” he said. Aside from a few students stepping into the road – and one student briefly detained – Officer Mackley felt the group handled themselves well. Even though the event ended early after a small number of students reacted to a counter-protester, he still wanted to focus on the positive parts of the walkout. “I would like to say that I am really proud of the kids who stood up for what they believed in,” he said. Officer Mackley explained that the organizers never meant for there to be any violence or trouble, and he also said that he hopes students remember how strong they were.

Photos by Jack Tefertiller

“I want the kids who were involved and who didn’t throw things to know that I am proud of how they acted,” he said. The walkout left the school’s administration in a delicate position. Principal Velden Wardle said he and the other staff learned of the protest about two days before it was held, after a flyer spread on social media. One of the administration’s first concerns was that it was being represented as an official “Ben Lomond walkout.” But rather than trying to stop the event, Principal Wardle said the school focused on the safety of the students by alerting Ogden Police to be present during the demonstration. From Principal Wardle’s perspective, the protest reflected both the strength and the challenges of the students’ passion. He saw it as a positive that

students came together, supported one another, and took action to show what they believed. “That’s what we try to teach students, that no matter your beliefs, that you have a chance to change it and you can speak out and talk about it,” he said. At the same time, Principal Wardle noted some of the less fortunate things that happened, including the timing of the event (during school hours) and the fact that some adults were driving by making rude gestures and swearing – which eventually led to students responding. “Another negative thing was that I wished that the adults driving by would act more like adults,” Principal Wardle said. “They shouldn’t have been swearing, flipping off students, among other things.”

Looking back, Principal Wardle emphasized that he appreciates the passion students had but also believes they could have had a stronger message if they’d changed the timing of the event. “I appreciate their passion, but one thing I see – if the students care – is if they did it on a Saturday,” he said. “The walkout showed their passion, but I think if they had done something on a Saturday to show, ‘This isn’t just to get out of school, we care about this,’ I think that would’ve been a stronger message. All of the people who said ‘Oh, this is just to get out of school’ would have nothing to say then.” Principal Wardle said the bottom line is that he wants to support student voices, keep students safe, and maintain the school’s educational mission. Ben Lomond Spirit Magazine | 25

JROTC CRISP BL STUDENT TO SERVE HIS COUNTRY

B Reserve.

en Lomond High School student Isaiah Crisp recently enlisted in the U.S. Air Force

Isaiah will train as a weapons technician on the F-35 aircraft. He earned a $20,000 signing bonus and enters military service as the rank of E-3 (Private First Class). Isaiah was promoted to E-3 based on his JROTC service time at Ben Lomond. 26 | Ben Lomond Spirit Magazine

By BL Spirit Staff For the remainder of the school year, Isaiah will attend training one weekend a month and receive paid compensation for that time. After high school graduation, he will attend basic training at Lackland Air Force Base in Texas. He’ll follow up after high school graduation with follow up Advance Individual Training immediately after that. Once Isaiah has completed his train-

ing, he will return to Utah and attend college and ROTC at Weber State University. His college expenses will be covered by tuition assistance from the military. “We are very proud of Isaiah and the great decision he has made to enlist to serve his country in the United States Air Force,” said Ben Lomond adviser/teacher SFC Richard Colwell.

JROTC HOBBS BL SENIOR HITTING THE MARK By BL Spirit Staff

en Lomond High School student Cyrus Hobbs has been making headlines with his marksmanship this winter.

Cyrus qualified to shoot at the Army Service Championships, held Feb. 5-7 at the Mountain America Expo Center in Sandy. He finished Day 1 with a score of 525, and Day 2 with a score of 538, for an overall total of 1,063. This was good enough to finish in 6th place overall and qualify Cyrus for the finals. The finals includes the top eight finishers. For the finals, participants shoot all three positions; kneeling, prone, and standing. Once shooters finish, two of the eight finalists are eliminated. Cyrus finished 6th to make it to the second round. During the final round, contestants shoot one shot in the standing position and one shooter is eliminated each time. Cyrus ended up finishing 5th overall in the finals. “We are very proud of the perseverance Cyrus showed to finish in such a high position nationally,” said adviser/teacher SFC Richard Colwell. Cyrus followed up his impressive performance in the Army Service Championships by winning first place in Rifle regionals on Feb. 18. He will shoot in the Rifle State Championship on Feb. 28 February at Utah Military Academy in Riverdale. Ben Lomond Spirit Magazine | 27

SWIM TEAM SWIMMING: THE ROAD TO STATE By Ty Stuart, BL Spirit Staff

wimming is one of the hardest sports one can dedicate their time and energy to. It involves working out your entire body and pushing yourself to new limits every day.

of the meet, both the boys and girls teams took 11th place, which is higher than either team has scored in years. Three Ben Lomond swimmers placed at state, earning a total of four medals.

On a daily basis, the members of the swim team head to the pool right after school gets out. They warm up, stretch, do some drills, and then swim hard. They participate in one of the hardest sports every day for almost five months of the year. Practice during the season involves swimming thousands of yards every day and then competing at almost fifteen meets spread throughout the season.

 Senior Nathan Terry took 2nd place in the Unified 50-yard Freestyle with a time of 43.02.

All that practice and competing adds up to miles of swimming every month. Swimming that much leads to success and accomplishment throughout the season, culminating in the championship events with region and state swimming. All of the effort the swimmers put in throughout the season puts them in the position to set personal records and qualify for the state meet at the end of the season in February.

 Duffin also placed 7th in the Women’s 200-yard Freestyle with a time of 2:16.46. Swimming is one of the most rewarding sports. Students are invited to join the swim team next year. No experience is necessary, as the team can teach you to swim rather quickly. It’s a valuable skill that will leave you feeling accomplished after every meet.

This year’s state swim meet was an awesome experience for Ben Lomond swimmers. Nine swimmers qualified for 14 individual events, and all six relay teams competed. At the end

For those interested in joining the swim team, practice usually starts in September or October, so be on the lookout for more information next fall.

 Senior Rames Photharin placed 5th in the Men’s 100-yard Butterfly with a time of 59.12.  Sophomore Dawsen Duffin placed 6th in the Women’s 100-yard Butterfly with a time of 1:10.44.

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Photos by Jack Tefertiller