Add your name and/or comments to this thread. If you want to go BACK TO THE PIT click on "COMMENTS" below and write in the space provided. To sign up for a Google account, is completely free, or you can comment using the other options.
Contact us at cmj2nc@aol.com
2008, 2009, 2010 FAMILIES
CALL YVETTE 994-9648, email Nanee_angel@yahoo.com
Contact us at cmj2nc@aol.com
2008, 2009, 2010 FAMILIES
CALL YVETTE 994-9648, email Nanee_angel@yahoo.com
1,318 comments:
«Oldest ‹Older 401 – 600 of 1318 Newer› Newest»I understand the chaos of organizing a high school graduation and inevitably someone is going to be less than happy about the result. But to callously disregard the plans and wishes of multiple family members goes beyond any kind of administrative SNAFU.
Gradution ceremonies are ultimately about the achievements of the students and an opportunity for loved ones to celebrate those achievements. For Rio Rancho to dismiss the concerns and outrage of family members is to disregard the spirit of the ceremony.
Isn't obvious? Do the right thing.
ditto to this HUGE SNAFU!!!
I understand the chaos of organizing a high school graduation and inevitably someone is going to be less than happy about the result. But to callously disregard the plans and wishes of multiple family members goes beyond any kind of administrative SNAFU.
Graduation ceremonies are ultimately about the achievements of the students and an opportunity for loved ones to celebrate those achievements. For Rio Rancho to dismiss the concerns and outrage of family members is to disregard the spirit of the ceremony.
Isn't obvious? Do the right thing.
I support returning the graduation to The Pit.
We support returning the graduation to The Pit.
Tom
GREAT comments!!
We agree,
don't do us wrong RRPS.
RRPS
We are
AMERICANS
not
ameri-can'ts
“To the Graduating Class of Seniors 2007”
After 12-13 years of working towards graduating, we hoped you have learned.
We hoped you have learned to discriminate and impose your will on others.
Especially, don't use anything we taught you about "Democracy", rather, “do as I say, not as I do” is a much more advantageous edict.
All I am saying is
R U AN AMERI-CAN
OR
AN AMERI-CAN'T?
That is all I am asking.
Ethan
BACK TO THE PIT!
it is that simple......
Jennifer
CALL YVETTE: 994-9648
EMAIL YVETTE: nanee_angel@yahoo.com
Hello everyone that would like the graduation to return to THE PIT.
We need your help Yvette has arranged for someone from the news channel to come out on Sunday the 25th to the Santa Ana Star Center at 1:00 pm to come and talk to all parents and those who would like to voice their say in this.
IT IS NOT TO LATE, DON'T GIVE UP.
Please contact Yvette at 994-9648 to help her get names and #’s to support our voices.
We need to network with everyone and present our concerns to the board and administration.
We need to show strength in numbers.
We need your help Yvette has arranged for someone from the news channel to come out on Sunday the 25th to the Santa Ana Star Center at 1:00 pm to come and talk to all parents and those who would like to voice their say in this.
PLEASE EVERYONE, PLEASE come out and help support our request to GO BACK TO THE PIT!.
Lets show the board and administration they can’t just bully us.
WE NEED TO SHOW THAT WE WANT THE PIT BACK.
Please call Yvette for more info 994-9648 thanks for all your support.
REMEMBER WE HAVE TO WORK TOGETHER.
DON'T GIVE UP THERE IS A LOT MORE FAMILIES AND PEOPLE THAT WANT IT AT THE PIT!
THE PIT WILL HOLD UP 15 TO 16,000 PEOPLE.
THAT MEANS OVER 10 TO 11,000 PEOPLE WON’T BE ABLE TO GO.
GO BACK TO THE PIT!!
Thank you,
Yvette
we as parents and graduates need to unite as one and let the board and school know that we will not stand for this. this blog is great and let each other now what is happening but is the superintendent reading all of this we need to call off the wall and request a emergency board meeting an take off of work or what ever we need to do. But it is going to take a lot more than just a few parents to do this. lets continue to let the so called higher ups know that they cant keep doing what they are doing. They talk about bullies in school and it won’t be tolerated but who is doing the bullying WE WONT STAND FOR IT come on every one lets do something
Hello Bloggers,
Some very informative stuff here. Things I did not even consider. We all agree to go Back to The Pit. It really concerns me what blatant disregard they have for everyone. That is not the Sue Cleveland I know. Someone with some real juice is misleading her. What is that actual breakdown culturally of this graduating class? How is it that they have no concern with the adversity they have caused to so many? Surely, the school has had diversity and sensitivity training? Don’t give up, as someone already wrote, keep this going. Because their decision is way out of line. Bad, Bad, Bad! Sad to say politics, power and money are involved, no one can be that stupid. Can they?
Where is Bill Richardson?
Not that he is my choice for anything,
But he sure can mediate.
Gene
We want our family and loved ones to see my daughter graduate and 6 tickets won’t be enough.
Rio Rancho schools needs to re-think their decision!
Return to the PIT!
Or allow parents and seniors to vote.
Rodney
THANKS FOR THE BLOG SPOT.THIS IS A GIGANTIC MISTAKE AFFECTING OUR CHILDREN OUR FAMILIES OUR FRIENDS
Denny
Why would they (whoever they are) change the plans without the students/parents opinion?
It is all about the seniors, or else they wouldn’t be holding a graduation ceremony.
And to only be able to invite 6 people to graduation??
What if there are families with more than six people?
Wow how nice of you guys to not allow someone’s entire family to attend.
Good job.
No wonder no body likes Rio Rancho, its ran by a bunch of idiots.
The school doesn’t even let students know what’s going on, seems like they have no idea what they are doing.
Everybody is angry, because of the fact that they changed it after everybody out of state has made plans, and now a majority of them wont even be able to attend because the graduates can only invite 6 people.
It’s just ridiculous.
And why did I pay 100 and somewhat dollars for invitations for graduation when I can't even send them out, because you can't use them to get in the graduation?
RR school board sucks.
Tear up the contract!
“BACK TO THE PIT”
Dr. Cleveland we want this graduation at THE PIT, thank you.
Nick
To whom it may concern,
I didn’t appreciate Gary Herron’s remarks on the Observer article
about the High School graduation being relocated.
"Come on, parents of graduating seniors of 2007. Get used to the
idea that the ceremony is going to be held at the Santa Ana Star”.
The idea is being shoved down our throats even by the Observer’s editor. The school board shouldn’t have changed the location two months prior to graduation and after we all had ordered our graduation invitations. All our graduation invitations state the graduation is being held at the University Arena “The Pit”. Is the school board going to reimburse us for all the invitations we couldn’t use? The simple solution to this mess the school board created is just hold the graduation at the Pit like we were told in the first place and let the graduates of next year hold theirs Santa Ana Star Center. Now the school board wants to televise the graduation one Cable One Network … A lot of parents including myself have Dish Network which will not broadcast the graduation. I have never heard people being limited access to a high school graduation …. Only in Rio Rancho .. The City of Vision … Tony Maez
RE: The Observer newspaper
Check this out,
according to the Santa Ana Website, the OBSERVER are "Corporate Partners", with BOTH the casino and the center, have you noticed they have yet to do an actual news report on a Parent that is upset with the graduation, Both the Journal and Tribune interviewed Parents, right, then how come our own newspaper has not interviewed anyone?
List of "Corporate Partners" of The Santa Ana Star Center:
SANTA ANA STAR CASINO
THE RIO RANCHO OBSERVER
99.3 KOB FM
770 KKOB
Mew Mexico's CW
Perfection Honda
JohnnyBoards LLC
First Community Bank
Qwest
Crystal Springs
O'Hare's Grille & Pub / Hot Tamales
Rio Rancho Printing
AND
Does anyone know if the people who made the decision to move the graduation to the Santa Ana Star Center have a financial interest in the Star Center or the casino or in any of the Center's corporate partners? Wouldn't that constitute a conflict of interest?
Ok I support going to the Pit
Wanda
I am a senior at Rio Rancho high school, I would like to have the graduation moved back to University Arena, The Pit.
Take our graduation back to the PIT
H
I'm not going to any gambling dens and neither is anyone else in my family. As far as I'm concerned, they can mail my son's diploma to him.
Boycott the casino graduation!!!!
Boycott! Boycott! Boycott! Boycott! Boycott!
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I'm not sure the district or anyone is going to take us seriously: how do you figure that the decision about graduation is an item for the governor to mediate? We might have a prayer if our issue affected the entire state. It doesn't, it is a local issue. This decision may be unpopular, but it is nowhere near a violation of our democratic privilege. And, appealing to media entities ensures that we'll get plenty of attention, but it won't solve anything: remember that their business is to sell newspapers and air time. We're boosting their sales, and their ratings, and that's about all. This isn't helping!
If you are against the move to return to THE PIT, email echarles1234@aol.com with your comments.
Thank you
And echarles1234@aol.com will be doing what to see that those comments actually see the light of day?
Matches Malone
email echarles1234@aol.com
See...I thought "somebody" wanted a VOTE. As long as the only votes counted are... *hey* Wait-a-minute. You're a republican, aren't you?
retired reporter
what would help?
This really is about the students, and it's most important that they graduate, right? My grad is the first in my family to graduate, and I'll be there at the Center, or there at the Pit. I think we're pretty spoiled. Kids in some countries don't get a chance like this, much less a choice.
Sad said...
This really is about the students, and it's most important that they graduate, right? My grad is the first in my family to graduate, and I'll be there at the Center, or there at the Pit. I think we're pretty spoiled. Kids in some countries don't get a chance like this, much less a choice.
Has anyone tried to write a letter or have a reasonable conversation with either the Superintendent or the Board? Or did "we" just run straight to the news hounds? I apologize that I don't know the answer, I'm just now learning of it. I don't think a petition will be useful at all.
E-mail? Nah...the choice words I've got for you will go much better in person (I can play the no transcript game, too.)
See ya' tommorrow at 1:00.
Retired Reporter,
if you have the time go ahead and read some of the comments people have approached the avenues you mention what else would you suggest?
This isn't good: accusing the district or any media of "financial interest" will close more doors than it will open. Because these companies are represented as "corporate partners" doesn't mean they have financial interest in graduation. Retired reporter is right - this stuff isn't helpful.
Matches Malone
What do you mean?
E-mail? Nah...the choice words I've got for you will go much better in person (I can play the no transcript game, too.)
See ya' tommorrow at 1:00.
Oh no you didn't,
What do you suggest?
I just read that blog,
it reads like it is in the form of a question.
Oh no you didn't said...
This isn't good: accusing the district or any media of "financial interest" will close more doors than it will open. Because these companies are represented as "corporate partners" doesn't mean they have financial interest in graduation. Retired reporter is right - this stuff isn't helpful.
To both retired r & oh no you didn't,
What would you both suggest?
retired reporter II,
I'm not sure where to start reading. There is enough misinformation in this blog that I'm a bit perplexed. Who has done what, and how? Do you know?
I do know that involving media entities typically creates the proverbial mountain out of a molehill, when the molehill might have been easily squashed with the right-sized shovel. I think we make an effort to solve it at the source, because involving media tends to p**s off our opponent, they stop listening and we get nowhere. At this point, they have the power: they made the decision and we are being forced to live with it. What is the incentive for them to change their minds? Because we're noisy? Too much work to listen to noise.
And, "they" aren't reading the blog, too much work and they aren't invested.
retired reporter:
You're right, they aren't reading the blog, aren't listening and don't care. Now what?
both retired r & oh no you didn't
please take your time and email me any of your thoughts in detail echarles1234@aol.com thank you i don't know if you both are together or not? but take your time and email me what you think i like the way you processed the molehill thinking and time investment
u 3 r
i'll see ya' all at 1
go back to the pit and thats it
I strongly suggest we just let bygones be bygones and go back to the Pit.
What you think?
i'll see ya' all at 1
is everyone gone already?
1) I suggest that you prepare your case, and make an attempt at a calm, sincere plea. Does anyone have a relationship with the superintendent, or someone at the district or board level, or as a last resort, our local newspaper? (I once met the publisher, she seems like a reasonable person, very commmunity centric). The key here is to involve someone willing to listen, whether or not he/she is sympathetic is immaterial - you just need to get someone's ear. 2) Bring a suggested resolution forward, and be prepared to compromise. For instance, you might suggest that those grads with last names A through K hit the Center at an earlier time than those with last names L through Z. It isn't exactly the relocation we're going for, but it allows more people to attend - not all bad. For now, I'm going to kiss my grad and go to bed.
retired reporter said...
1) I suggest that you prepare your case, and make an attempt at a calm, sincere plea. Does anyone have a relationship with the superintendent, or someone at the district or board level, or as a last resort, our local newspaper? (I once met the publisher, she seems like a reasonable person, very commmunity centric). The key here is to involve someone willing to listen, whether or not he/she is sympathetic is immaterial - you just need to get someone's ear. 2) Bring a suggested resolution forward, and be prepared to compromise. For instance, you might suggest that those grads with last names A through K hit the Center at an earlier time than those with last names L through Z. It isn't exactly the relocation we're going for, but it allows more people to attend - not all bad. For now, I'm going to kiss my grad and go to bed.
is everyone gone already?
echarles - Thanks for asking, I saw your note after my last post. For now, this is my best suggestion, but I'm sure there are other solutions. Maybe my thoughts will spawn some others.
CALL YVETTE: 994-9648
EMAIL YVETTE: nanee_angel@yahoo.com
Hello everyone that would like the graduation to return to THE PIT.
We need your help Yvette has arranged for someone from the news channel to come out on Sunday the 25th to the Santa Ana Star Center at 1:00 pm to come and talk to all parents and those who would like to voice their say in this.
IT IS NOT TO LATE, DON'T GIVE UP.
Please contact Yvette at 994-9648 to help her get names and #’s to support our voices.
We need to network with everyone and present our concerns to the board and administration.
We need to show strength in numbers.
We need your help Yvette has arranged for someone from the news channel to come out on Sunday the 25th to the Santa Ana Star Center at 1:00 pm to come and talk to all parents and those who would like to voice their say in this.
PLEASE EVERYONE, PLEASE come out and help support our request to GO BACK TO THE PIT!.
Lets show the board and administration they can’t just bully us.
WE NEED TO SHOW THAT WE WANT THE PIT BACK.
Please call Yvette for more info 994-9648 thanks for all your support.
REMEMBER WE HAVE TO WORK TOGETHER.
DON'T GIVE UP THERE IS A LOT MORE FAMILIES AND PEOPLE THAT WANT IT AT THE PIT!
THE PIT WILL HOLD UP 15 TO 16,000 PEOPLE.
THAT MEANS OVER 10 TO 11,000 PEOPLE WON’T BE ABLE TO GO.
GO BACK TO THE PIT!!
Thank you,
Yvette
To Retired Reporter
email me tomorrow we can exchange more easily there thanks echarles1234@aol.com
echarles1234@aol.com
"simple words of wisdom....Let It Be....."
(at the Pit)
To Matches Malone
regarding your comments please take your time and go point by point I would really like to hear all of your comments if you would like to quote the point and then respond to it that would be helpful then we can read exactly what your commenting on may I suggest you pick out 50 or more points that way we will cover a lot of ground at one time you can even be as expound on anything you like
we welcome your comments we really do
we too are looking forward to seeing you at 1
sincerely interested
echarles1234@aol.com
Please do tell, what can you tell me about him?
Ray
RE: Dr. Sue Cleveland
Please do tell, what can you tell me about her?
Ray
RE: The Administration
Please do tell, what can you tell me about them?
Ray
RE: School Board and President
Please do tell, what can you tell me about them?
Ray
SIGN THE PETITION
Add your name and/or comments to this thread. If you want to go BACK TO THE PIT click on "COMMENTS" below and write in the space provided. To sign up for a Google account, is completely free, or you can comment using the other options.
Contact us at cmj2nc@aol.com
"GET BACK...GET BACK....GET BACK TO WHERE ONCE BELONG
GET BACK JO JO"
(there are talking about the PIT!
Please add my name to the Blog, thanks
Perry
I spoke in front of the school board at the March meeting outlining as many of the problems created by the decision to move the graduation to the Santa Ana Star Center that I could think of. Over the course of the week it was learned that it was not a school board idea, but an administrative decision made by the Superintendent, the Director of Activities and the Principal. We are now being told that it is a done deal because the contract is signed and the money paid. Well... to reserve the Pit, requires a contract and money paid also. They seem to have been able to get out of that one.
Isn't the Santa Ana Star Center owned by the City of Rio Rancho? The casino only paid for naming rights. The City can release the high school from the contract and return the money paid very easily.
I am really interested to know if the city government leaders put pressure on the Superintendent and Principal to move the graduation to the Center. The City government and the School board have known since the day the plans for the Center were finalized that it would not be big enough to hold graduation there, at least not while there was only one high school in Rio Rancho. It will be at least 4 years , after it opens, before Dr. Cleveland High School has a graduating class. By then it is projected that we will be right back to square one because both high schools will be vying for the title of 'Biggest High School in New Mexico' with graduating classes for each right back up to 600-700.
I am the parent of a Senior, and I am very disappointed in how this is being handled by the School board and people employed by the School district. Let's change it back to the PIT.
[sweet loretta thought she was a cleaner but she was a frying pan.]
Get back, get back.
Get back to where you once belonged
Get back, get back.
Get back to where you once belonged.
Get back Sue. go (to The Pit)
Get back, get back.
Back to where you once belonged
Get back, get back.
Back to where you once belonged.
Get back Sue.
[thanks, mo! ...on behalf of the group i hope we passed the audition.]
GEORGE
To blog comments, I had already signed out and just read them. These are questions, if you or anyone knows I am very interested in knowing? So now what do you suggest would be helpful? I really am not interested in closing any doors. Thank you .
RE: The Observer newspaper
Check this out,
According to the Santa Ana Website, the OBSERVER are "Corporate Partners", with BOTH the casino and the center, have you noticed they have yet to do an actual news report on a Parent that is upset with the graduation, Both the Journal and Tribune interviewed Parents, right, then how come our own newspaper has not interviewed anyone?
List of "Corporate Partners" of The Santa Ana Star Center:
SANTA ANA STAR CASINO
THE RIO RANCHO OBSERVER
99.3 KOB FM
770 KKOB
Mew Mexico's CW
Perfection Honda
JohnnyBoards LLC
First Community Bank
Qwest
Crystal Springs
O'Hare's Grille & Pub / Hot Tamales
Rio Rancho Printing
AND
Does anyone know if the people who made the decision to move the graduation to the Santa Ana Star Center have a financial interest in the Star Center or the casino or in any of the Center's corporate partners? Wouldn't that constitute a conflict of interest?
"YES the district should have come up with a variety of options and make them available to the public, obtain feedback and base the decision on that feedback in combination with sound financial decisions (as well as access, parking, etc.). YES the timing should have been better. YES the district has not given the public a voice. YES it should probably be moved back to the PIT for this year's graduation."
Hello, I am interested in knowing too?
RE: Gary Herron
RE: Dr. Sue Cleveland
RE: The Administration
RE: School Board and President
What can you tell me about all of them?
Rick
Did you know when a person is elected to our school board; they have to swear an oath?
YES, THEY LITERALLY SWEAR TO UPHOLD BOTH THE CONSTITUTION OF THE UNITED STATES AS WELL AS THE CONSTITUTION OF THE HIGH SCHOOL!
I THINK THAT IS REALLY GREAT!
“We the people of the United States, in order to form a more perfect union, establish justice, insure domestic tranquility, provide for the common defense, promote the general welfare, and secure the blessings of liberty to ourselves and our posterity, do ordain and establish this Constitution for the United States of America”
A blogger commented how this whole graduation change stepped on people’s rights.
The entire history of our government was to escape bad government, bad and unfair decisions, bad practices, bad leaders.
What really bothers me is our children are involved.
The event is an important chapter in their lives.
They are seeing first hand another history lesson.
Democracy did not play a part in this poorly planned change and that is why I am joining in on this push to address the graduation.
Even if this situation affected two people it is wrong.
After reading the newspaper and reading several emails this is affecting thousands.
I completely see why it was changed and there are those that support the change.
But when you consider how this was handled then you scratch your head and wonder how well paid, educated people forgot the opening lines of THEIR Constitution, they forgot their history and at the expense of our children.
What also stands out and causes me to cringe is the very same people have charge over our children.
They will read these words and not understand what they did and what they are doing is wrong.
These same individuals will look in the mirror and say, "I'm ok".
Our children are our most precious part of our community and should not be taken for granted at any expense.
The contract is now the excuse they are so diligently clinging to and hiding behind in order to right their wrongs.
The Star Center should also know their history and let the school out of this contract.
It should have never been about the money it should have always been about the children, our children.
There is a lot of wine, worry and song here.
Keep up the good work!
We support the petition
Shawn
You dont know me but Im your brother
I was raised here in this living hell
You dont know my kind in your world
Fairly soon the time will tell
You, telling me the things youre gonna do for me
I aint blind and I dont like what I think I see
Takin it to THE PIT
Takin it to THE PIT
Takin it to THE PIT
Takin it to THE PIT
Take this message to my brother
You will find him everywhere
Wherever people live together
Tired of being treated unfair
You, telling me the things youre gonna do for me
I aint blind and I dont like what I think I see
Takin it to THE PIT
Takin it to THE PIT
Takin it to THE PIT
Takin it to THE PIT
CALL YVETTE: 994-9648
EMAIL YVETTE: nanee_angel@yahoo.com
Hello everyone that would like the graduation to return to THE PIT.
We need your help Yvette has arranged for someone from the news channel to come out on Sunday the 25th to the Santa Ana Star Center at 1:00 pm to come and talk to all parents and those who would like to voice their say in this.
IT IS NOT TO LATE, DON'T GIVE UP.
Please contact Yvette at 994-9648 to help her get names and #’s to support our voices.
We need to network with everyone and present our concerns to the board and administration.
We need to show strength in numbers.
We need your help Yvette has arranged for someone from the news channel to come out on Sunday the 25th to the Santa Ana Star Center at 1:00 pm to come and talk to all parents and those who would like to voice their say in this.
PLEASE EVERYONE, PLEASE come out and help support our request to GO BACK TO THE PIT!.
Lets show the board and administration they can’t just bully us.
WE NEED TO SHOW THAT WE WANT THE PIT BACK.
Please call Yvette for more info 994-9648 thanks for all your support.
REMEMBER WE HAVE TO WORK TOGETHER.
DON'T GIVE UP THERE IS A LOT MORE FAMILIES AND PEOPLE THAT WANT IT AT THE PIT!
THE PIT WILL HOLD UP 15 TO 16,000 PEOPLE.
THAT MEANS OVER 10 TO 11,000 PEOPLE WON’T BE ABLE TO GO.
GO BACK TO THE PIT!!
Thank you,
Yvette
I'm not sure there ever was a reservation or contract at the Pit. At this time last year, parents were complaining that the Center was built with no consideration for graduation, i.e., it wasn't big enough. If there was no contract, there was nothing to get out of - you might check into it. Really, if you're going to accuse the Superintendent or the Administration, you'll have better luck if your information is factual - be sure. They won't listen or react to suspicion, it means nothing.
“parents were complaining that the Center was built with no consideration for graduation, i.e., it wasn't big enough”
I have a question for those who are against this petition:
How is a decision to return the graduation to The Pit adversely affecting you?
i'll see ya' all at 1
...continued
Sorry, I realize this forum is reserved for people who are in favor of moving the graduation back to The Pit. But I can't, for the life of me, figure out why it would cause undo stress to anyone if the graduation were held at The Pit, where it has been held for several years now.
Since the City owns the Center, it has a reason to keep graduation here. So, how does it benefit the governing body to put pressure on the Superintendent or the Administration? It doesn't. It isn't in their best interest. If you want anyone to listen to you, you need to present some benefit in moving graduation back to the Pit. Think: how does moving back to the Pit benefit benefit the Administration, the Governing Body, or anyone outside this group of families? If you can answer this question, you have something to talk to the administration about. Until then, you're just making noise, and noise is meaningless. If the answer is, "We'll stop making noise and go away", they think "So what?" They aren't listening to you anyway. I don't know the answer, but I think you need to find it if you want to be successful in your quest.
This kinda’ reminds of a poker game I was in,
And the “deck was stacked” this is worse they’re holding all the cards and never dealt them out
Tell me more: I'm paraphrasing, but I remember "Rants" in the Observer newspaper from parents with words to this effect, i.e., "what were they thinking" in building a Center not large enough to accommodate graduates. I suspect that the Administration may be thinking they were doing the "right" thing. I need to do a bit more research on the archived specifics, my retention isn't what it once was.
So, my thought is that a calm, rational direct approach may go a bit further than a noisy one. It does appear that this case has been presented (see Mr. White's blog). If the Administration didn't respond in the manner you hoped, chances are that they won't, but it seems working WITH them to attempt a solution might be more productive.
If the issue is that everyone wants to attend but there isn't enough space, then perhaps you might suggest that the space be used so that everyone can attend. If a solution exists that works, then a move "back" to the Pit wouldn't be necessary. Take a page from the Center: if a concert sells out for one night, they add an extra night to accommodate more attendees.
And, to answer how the decision impacts me, I'm not sure I'm necessarily for or against the move. I do know that it impacts all of us in different ways and for many reasons, and I may be a bit too focused on the bigger pictur: keeping our gross receipts tax monies here instead of sending it to ABQ helps our city government to pay for things we all want: sidewalks, parks, improvements, street lights, paved streets, etc. I realize this doesn't make us feel better about the short-term, but it does help us all in the long-term - we don't want to pay higher property taxes for such things, right? If we keep our gross receipts money here, we help to defray some of these costs.
Okay, enough space devoted to my rambling.
Some of the questions being raised here are too far out in left field (conspiracy theories, etc.) to even begin to answer. There are, however, a couple of them that I actually do know the answer to.
1st - RRPS did not have to break a contract with the pit. After last year's fiasco, it was never reserved or contracted for. The complaints and nasty letters from parents were more than loud enough to make this seem like a minor dust-up.
2nd - No...the city did not put pressure on the district to have the graduation ceremony here in Rio Rancho. It was parents. The district received complaints from parents about the pit every year the graduation was held there. Those complaints reached a crescendo last year.
While the comments here all seem to be accusing the school system of not listening to parents' concerns, we are actually all in this boat precisely because the district DID listen to and respond to parents.
I agree with the petition and would like to vote to go back to the UNM Pit.
Jeannie
So the administration moved the graduation because they are afraid of being booed? Well, that just ices the cake.
I don't need my Magic 8-ball to tell me that they will be booed at this year's graduation.
Dear Mr. VonAncken,
If that many people are booing you, maybe you should look in the mirror.
love,
a concerned party
HELLO,
Thanks, what else could you let us know about this?
this is Yvette again and I want to thank all the parents,graduates and comunity that showed up to the news conferance at the santa ana areana which was held today at 1 with action 7 news we had a pretty good outcome about 26 total came out the news talked to some of us and we were able to let them know what we thought about this very poor decision that was made to move graduation to the sana ana I dont know if anyone had a chace to read the rio rancho observer and the tribune but these articles are stating that we get riled up for nothing and what are we teaching our children to be against the board if you get a chance get these papers and read then call those papers and see if they will write your comment about what they put about what we are doing what they are failing to do is realize the importance of why we are doing this because we have taught our children values and they do have the right to speak and have their voice heard I will update other information as we get it we have started a petition and if you would like to sign it please call me and I will met you to get it signed my number again is 994-9648 any other ideas let me know for we need to let them know that we are not making noise this is a very important issue to our graduates as well as all their support
I am adding to this blog to support the return to the Pit. I agree with the points of view listed here. Especially that this decision was unfair.
Thank you.
I read some of the comments here and will read all of them as I get the time to do so. I also read some of today’s news comments.
Gary, Mike and Genie and anonymous persons that all spoke their minds, I’d like to thank you.
There are some of us that would like to respectfully ask the administration to reconsider and some of us that are more vocal and some of us that have our “facts” wrong, and some of us that are like some of you, anonymous.
Be advised, ALL of us are very aware now of where you stand and I for one appreciate that you pointed out any misinformation.
However, one thing you ALL fail to do is address each concern on it’s own merit and then as a whole.
You target only certain ones, why is that?
Hear me out, we’ve heard your logic and the administration’s logic, somehow “we didn’t get a vote. Let’s not worry about it” does not, well, make sense!
That is a very critical part of this decision.
Perhaps an important question to each of you is should this matter have gone to some form of input/poll/vote? I’d like to know your answer.
And I’d like to know the answer from the seniors, parents and guardians that this affected.
Gary, regarding your comment about a vote, I’m sure we could come up with something.
“Let me play devil’s advocate” too, all anyone would ask is that it is fair process.
Hear me out; have a vote of some sort, just to make sure we ALL got this decision right.
You all really wrote some things that were fine and I concur with.
But you also wrote some things that made me realize you don’t get the big picture nor the little one either.
Please accept my apologies if we agree to disagree but that is how you see it and that is how I see it.
I’m not in your shoes and you are not in mine.
Gary, you actually wrote 10 year olds and under “should have stayed home”?
I don’t want to have my figures wrong or did you mean, 9 year olds and under “should have stayed home”?
I hope your foot is not that big?
I hope your quote gets passed around to every mother and father across this country.
May I respectfully ask you, who are you to discriminate against age?
(Perhaps I should count my blessing you don’t have S. Cleveland, R. Von Ancken and B. Duncan’s position)
I wonder now Gary, were you part of the think tank to get the decision through? Just asking.
“For weeks”, you ask, it has gone on “for weeks” because this decision adversely affects people.
It will continue to go on for weeks, “Batch up some popcorn” and save some room on the “couch” for Mike, Genie and "your extended posse".
“Gripes, whining, greedy”, please, “Get Over It”
Lucy
I agree with the petition.
Especially that this decision was unfair.
Thank you. Fran
Note:
RRPS received my comment at the very beginning when this all started - and before any contracts were signed!
The decision to move the 2007 graduation was handled improperly and was the wrong decision. Parents should have been surveyed prior to the decision. Please let me know who was responsible for this decision. The current class sizes are too large to try to graduate anywhere smaller than the Pit. My wife and I have 5 children, one of which graduates this year. My parents, who have already bought airline tickets from Ohio, my wife's parent's and a couple sisters plan to attend just like the past two years. Who do I get to leave home with my allotment of six tickets? I know there will be many other people in the same situation. Do you really expect people to return their six tickets? The only chance I have of letting my family share the occasion is to find some friend who isn't using all of their tickets. I highly recommend you reconsider the decision and keep the Pit location while you still can.
Attention: Seniors, Parents, Guardians, Families, Relatives, Students and concerned persons
We are a group of families that would like to have the Class of 2007 Graduation returned to "The PIT."
At minimum, let’s put this matter to a fair vote.
We are respectfully asking Dr. Sue Cleveland to make the decision to return to "The PIT."
RRPS has broken contracts before and can break this contract now and go "BACK TO THE PIT."
We need all persons that want the Graduation to be returned to "The PIT" to let your voice be heard.
In an unprecedented administrative decision, input was NOT allowed, requested or regarded by everyone affected. Only certain voices were heard.
This last minute decision affected more than 10,000 people.
We have heard all the reasons and explanations given by the administration and strongly feel they do not outweigh the fact that a fair process did not occur in the first place concerning this matter.
Please go online now. We have every right to be heard. "It’s not over till it’s over." BACK TO the Pit
FAMILY AND friends of Rio Rancho High School graduates DISCUSSION GROUP
HELLO HS,
I checked back in to see if you responded.
Thanks, what else could you let us know about this?
This is not right.
Count us in.
so who gives them the right to say were we are going to graduate? we are graduating now not them they had there chance to graduate already. my mom has really supported me in trying to change it to the pit and i am really thank full to her for that, what we seniors really need to do is get together and show them that we do have a say in what we want for graduation why do they get one and we dont? is it cause they are part of the school board it still doesnt give them the right to do that. if they dont change it they are going to have an even bigger problem with the families that dont get in. the traffic is going to be really bad and if you think about it they dont have enough parking for everyone because every or almost every senior has a car and will be driving to graduation. you know they arent gonna let us park in front of the arena you know they will probably be saving that for the staff. i dont think that is fair either why do they get reserved parkin we are the graduates not them we should be able to park closer to the enterance at the arena. we need all the support we can get to get it changed back to the pit. OUR OPINIONS DO MATTER AND WE WANT THE PIT. MAY 19TH SHOULDNT BE A DAY OF DISAPPOINTMENT FOR US GRADUATES IT SHOULD BE A TIME TO CELEBRATE.
Uncle a said
Going back to the Pit is a great idea. For many students this is there only claim to fame. Relatives would like to attend the ceremony and the Pit can hold more people who obviously would like to attend. Having a graduation with limited seating is archaic and so bourgeois. Step up to the plate and give family a chance to celebate this momentous occasion. Many have to travel great distances. Do you remember how they treated Mary and Joseph, there was no room at the inn. Don't do the same to the greates class of Rio Rancho's history, the class of 2007.
This e-mail is regarding the Common Sense article written in the Rio Rancho Journal.
Being a student at Rio Rancho High School and waking up to read this article from you both, Mike and Genie Ryan, made me think of what common sense you both must have in writing this article.
Whether or not you grew up in big families that fully supported you through your life, you clearly don’t understand the gripe those of us with big families are having because of the ticket limit.
I do think it is a great idea to hold graduation in my wonderful hometown, but it’s a shame that all of the people I want there may not get to go.
Is it really my fault that I have a large immediate family?
Should I as a senior really have to pick which family members should go with the extra tickets I have dug up by myself.
Also, uniforms were voted on when I was in fifth grade and we were just supposed to be “trying them out;” so maybe that was the outrage over that.
Are you saying people can’t speak up if they don’t agree with the way you think?
Because that is how it sounds.
Also, regarding parents voicing opinions on test scores, drop out rates, and curriculum; this point in your article has nothing to do with the students that are graduating and shouldn’t even be mentioned because those parents that are outraged have kids that obviously didn’t drop out and had good test scores.
Personally I believe Rio Rancho’s curriculum is great.
Furthermore, your other huge point that has nothing to do with the GRADUATING SENIORS is parents caring about what their children are learning.
The seniors that are graduating have already learned, hence the reason for a graduation ceremony.
Your are right though that parents need to be involved and I’m glad mine are in trying to somehow make my very large, supportive family attend my graduation.
Also, don’t assume these “griping” parents don’t care about what their children are learning because you have no right to and it has nothing to do with why they are “griping” in the first place.
If you don’t see what the “big deal” is about me not having my family at my ceremony then you might as well suggest not having a ceremony at all, because you must not comprehend the point of what a graduation ceremony is.
You also state you don’t understand why parents wont let it go?
It’s because we still can’t have all of our family attend, DUH!
You’re right about making graduation special for the graduates, but what you don’t understand is part of making it special is having my whole family there which is why we’re still “griping”.
I hope you understand the hypocrisy of your article.
I do hope my parents take your advice and become involved and make my graduation even more special; and that is by continuing to challenge the change of venues.
Also you say this will be the first graduation in Rio Rancho, then you go to say Independence is.
I’m truly sorry of the hypocrisy and confusion of your article, the lack of common sense two human beings have in putting together this article, the Journals decision to hire two people who clearly state they just don’t understand what they are writing about; as you clearly mention in your article several times.
Sincerely I hope you’ll get some common sense, be able to understand your topic and just not worry about the vehemence, the passion of Rio Rancho’s families over this very important topic, better yet “Get Over It”.
2007 Senior
Gary Herron is completely out of line with his philosophy regarding who can and who can’t attend graduations.
Please make sure you send this out to everyone in your email address book, every Blog space, every "my space" location, hey, even share it with strangers you pass on the street.
I just read this in the newspaper and then a comment about it here on the Blog.
I don’t want to say anything mean spirited here but this needs to be passed on.
Also, run down the article in the Observer’s 3/25/07 Sunday issue and read all of it.
Part of BLOG COMMENT:
Gary, you actually wrote 10 year olds and under “should have stayed home”?
I don’t want to have my figures wrong or did you mean, 9 year olds and under “should have stayed home”?
I hope your foot is not that big?
I hope your quote gets passed around to every mother and father across this country.
May I respectfully ask you, who are you to discriminate against age?
(Perhaps I should count my blessing you don’t have S. Cleveland, R. Von Ancken and B. Duncan’s position)
I wonder now Gary, were you part of the think tank to get the decision through? Just asking.
Congratulations to everyone that has commented on the Web Log. It is truly empowering to see individuals and families come together like this. We would like to go back to the Pit.
Chuck
Still hoping to get tickets for 12 of my closest friends and advisors. I think Mom and Dad are more than willing to sacrifice their seats, but Lazarus is my wing man, and I cannot leave him to the elements.
Remember, when I said what you do unto the least of these, you do unto Me? And remember when I said suffer the little children to come unto Me? I was talking to you, Gary.
Don't make Me come down there!
Every 5th grader knows that it's rude to invite some of your family, and leave some of your family out.
It's all well and good to say, "Don't invite your whole family." But what if they all send you $20 on your birthday? And, duh! they are going to know which ones you chose to save tickets for.
Who needs that kind of grief?
This is Yvette again and I want to thank all the parents, graduates, and community that showed up to the news conference at the Santa Ana Center, which was held today at 1 with Action 7 News.
We had a pretty good outcome--about 26 total came out. The news talked to some of us and we were able to let them know what we thought about this very poor decision that was made to move graduation to the Santa Ana Center.
I don’t know if anyone had a chance to read the Rio Rancho Observer and the Journal/Rio Rancho section, but these articles are stating that we “get riled up for nothing” and “why are we teaching our children to be against the board?”
If you get a chance, get these papers and read them. Then call those papers and see if they will write your comment about what they put about what we are doing. What they are failing to do is realize the importance of why we are doing this. We have taught our children values and they DO have the right to speak and have their voices heard.
I will update other information as we get it.
We have started a petition and if you would like to sign it, please call me and I will meet you to get it signed. My number again is 994-9648. Any other ideas? Let me know, because we need to let them know that WE ARE NOT JUST MAKING NOISE. This is a very important issue to our graduates as well as all of us involved, we are their support.
I'm just saying, if you are smarter than a 5th grader, like me, you will sign this petition to GO BACK TO THE PIT!!!
Way to go common sense:
I think you should try out for Mike and Genie Ryan's job.
I realize the got u by 55 years in age, but the Journal needs new blood anywho.
They obviously don't know what they are writing about.
Wonder if they graduated?
fellow Senior 2007
Gary Herron
Dr. Sue Cleveland
The Administration
School Board and President
This kinda’ reminds of a poker game I was in,
And the “deck was stacked”
this is worse
they’re holding all the cards
and never dealt them out
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See ya' tommorrow at 1:00.
To Matches Malone
regarding your comments please take your time and go point by point I would really like to hear all of your comments if you would like to quote the point and then respond to it that would be helpful then we can read exactly what your commenting on may I suggest you pick out 50 or more points that way we will cover a lot of ground at one time you can even be as expound on anything you like
we welcome your comments we really do
we too are looking forward to seeing you at 1
sincerely interested
echarles1234@aol.com
Being a senior is very stressful because of everything we have to get done through the year and down the stretch and for me the graduation change makes my senior year a MILLION TIMES more stressful.
Now I don’t get to have ALL of my loved ones see me graduate. Thanks for ruining one of the most important events of my life.
I am sorry we are a very close family.
I was really looking forward to graduation when I saw my cousins (with our ENTIRE family) graduate last year at the PIT from West Mesa and Eldorado, but now I'm not because not even half of them will be there.
What a great way to show your appreciation to one of the largest graduating classes.
The newspaper read, that I was being "greedy"?
Maybe the Star center should let us out of the contract.
Who now is being greedy?
Families and graduates have been discriminated against,
(along with anyone under the age of 10 years old per Gary Herron)
Not everyone was allowed to have a voice in this decision.
Only those visionaries that always wanted it here in RR.
Only those that "griped, whined and were "greedy" the very loudest.
This deal was highly one sided.
Go back to the Pit.
Doreen
Per your article you referred to yourself as the "devil's advocate", re: the vote. This idea was submitted along time ago and can be fine tuned Gary, what do you think?
"An editor and the administration all referred to the “many” that wanted this, what is the problem with putting this to a vote, right now?
You will all find out the actual “many” want this event at “The Pit”.
Our Seniors will have to revert back to their grade school days, you print up what 750 notes home with 2 boxes to check on the note - “The Pit” or no “Pit”, parents and guardians along with each Senior will vote.
Unlike the decree that has been imposed upon everyone, where only a certain “many” voices were heard and acted on, simply, that decision that act in itself is so wrong and so very unfair, this is America right? (The school board is supposed to uphold the Constitution of the United States, just ask them).
Make sure you number each one of these notes that way they can be counted fairly.
Add a few lines so the Graduate and their Parent/Guardian can print and sign.
If you have a better idea, wonderful as long as the vote process is fair.
If the vote comes back no “Pit”, then the editor, the administration and the so called “many” had a finger on the pulse and IF the vote comes back “The Pit” then Hallelujah! Times a wastin’!"
I read some of the comments here and will read all of them as I get the time to do so. I also read some of today’s news comments.
Gary, Mike and Genie and anonymous persons that all spoke their minds, I’d like to thank you.
There are some of us that would like to respectfully ask the administration to reconsider and some of us that are more vocal and some of us that have our “facts” wrong, and some of us that are like some of you, anonymous.
Be advised, ALL of us are very aware now of where you stand and I for one appreciate that you pointed out any misinformation.
However, one thing you ALL fail to do is address each concern on it’s own merit and then as a whole.
You target only certain ones, why is that?
Hear me out, we’ve heard your logic and the administration’s logic, somehow “we didn’t get a vote. Let’s not worry about it” does not, well, make sense!
That is a very critical part of this decision.
Perhaps an important question to each of you is should this matter have gone to some form of input/poll/vote? I’d like to know your answer.
And I’d like to know the answer from the seniors, parents and guardians that this affected.
Gary, Mike and Genie and anonymous:
Regarding your comment about a vote, I’m sure we could come up with something.
“Let me play devil’s advocate” too, all anyone would ask is that it is fair process.
Hear me out; have a vote of some sort, just to make sure we ALL got this decision right.
You all really wrote some things that were fine and I concur with.
But you also wrote some things that made me realize you don’t get the big picture nor the little one either.
Please accept my apologies if we agree to disagree but that is how you see it and that is how I see it.
I’m not in your shoes and you are not in mine.
Gary, you actually wrote 10 year olds and under “should have stayed home”?
I don’t want to have my figures wrong or did you mean, 9 year olds and under “should have stayed home”?
I hope your foot is not that big?
I hope your quote gets passed around to every mother and father across this country.
May I respectfully ask you, who are you to discriminate against age?
Who are you to tell ANYONE who goes and who stays?
(Perhaps I should count my blessing you don’t have S. Cleveland, R. Von Ancken and B. Duncan’s position)
I wonder now Gary, were you part of the think tank to get the decision through that changed this from The Pit? Just asking.
“For weeks”, you ask, it has gone on “for weeks” because this decision adversely affects people.
It will continue to go on for weeks, “Batch up some popcorn” and save some room on the “couch” for Mike, Genie and "your extended posse".
“Gripes, whining, greedy”, please, “Get Over It”
Lucy
Gary Herron is completely out of line with his philosophy regarding who can and who can’t attend graduations.
Please make sure you send this out to everyone in your email address book, every Blog space, every "my space" location, hey, even share it with strangers you pass on the street.
I just read this in the newspaper and then a comment about it here on the Blog.
I don’t want to say anything mean spirited here but this needs to be passed on.
Also, run down the article in the Observer’s 3/25/07 Sunday issue and read all of it.
Part of BLOG COMMENT:
Gary, you actually wrote 10 year olds and under “should have stayed home”?
I don’t want to have my figures wrong or did you mean, 9 year olds and under “should have stayed home”?
I hope your foot is not that big?
I hope your quote gets passed around to every mother and father across this country.
May I respectfully ask you, who are you to discriminate against age?
Who are you to tell ANYONE who goes and who stays?
(Perhaps I should count my blessing you don’t have S. Cleveland, R. Von Ancken and B. Duncan’s position)
I wonder now Gary, were you part of the think tank to get the decision through that changed this from The Pit? Just asking.
"stupid is as stupid does"
F. Gump
I like that the venue is closer to home, but I would rather have my entire family and grandparents and relatives see my special day.
They are the people that helped me get there!
It’s despicable that the administration did this at the last minute and without anyone’s consent.
You don't want a vote because:
"YOU CAN'T HANDLE THE TRUTH"!!!!!!!!!
Jack
Gary Herron, Mike and Genie Ryan and anonymous declared in the newspaper that:
The Graduating Class of 2007 and their families - “Gripe, whine, and are greedy”
Last I checked this is America, obviously something is wrong in the city of vision if just one or two or 70000 people for that matter want to raise their concerns.
No matter how trivial you think it is.
You are doing your best to condemn, censor, insult and discriminate anyone that does not think like you!
I have a brother fighting for our country right now, serving proudly. He helped secure elections so people could vote and helped remove a person in power that punished ANYONE that did not think like him!
You are so worried who did or did not have their facts right, you don’t even understand why we are asking for this matter to be properly addressed. We know the reasons and we want this addressed.
NEWS FLASH: This matter was NEVER voted on and people have every right to question, challenge and complain about anything they don’t agree with!
I am only eighteen years old but I can see as clear as day just from the tone of your stories and rhetoric you have no compassion for persons that don’t think like you:
You went on to belittle a person not quite as knowledgeable as you regarding the district process.
You went on to dictate who could or could not attend a graduation based on age.
You went on to dismiss there was no vote allowed just like the tyrant we just removed felt about the importance of elections in his country.
You went on to condemn anyone that dare have a large family or in need of extra tickets.
You went on to let us know how annoyed you were because this has “continued for weeks” but for the life of you, could not understand why it has? You confirmed how much out of the loop you are because you actually had to ask why it is “so important that the gripes (not concerns you wrote ‘gripes’) have continued”? Just by the fact this has continued should raise a red flag with you that something is wrong. Why don’t you get all the facts, the real facts then you will have the answer.
You gloated you would only have 4 in your group at the graduation and you SPECIFICALLY referenced our “posse”.
Spell this anonymous, “r-a-c-i-s-m”
pos·se (pŏs'ē) n.
1. A group of people summoned by a sheriff to aid in law enforcement.
2. A search party.
3. Slang A gang involved in crimes such as running guns and illegal narcotics trafficking.
4. Slang A Street and hip hop music term for gang members.
You sure as heck were not referring to 1 and 2 or “the get-along gang”.
Where you too afraid to use the word(s) you really wanted to use?
You completely insulted grandparents, brothers, sisters, loved ones, anyone that had to travel and relegated them to a couch with popcorn and soda.
You mocked us with “ticket scalpers”, “Psst, buddy, who needs 4 tickets”
You automatically lumped all of us into a group that fails to vote or support our schools or only when it suits us. Wouldn’t that be “pre-judging” us?
You wrote that we “gripe, get over it”
You wrote that we “whined”
You wrote that we are “greedy”
You wrote the we “shocked and embarrassed you”
Then in your supreme all knowing wisdom you topped it off with a large quote telling all parents how to raise their children!
Is it possible that it is you that is “greedy”, it is you that are “griping”, it is you that “whine”, it is you that are prejudice, and that this is really all about YOU?
I have learned more about our school, our leaders, people, right and wrong, the news media, prejudice, my family and life just in the last two weeks compared to all my years in high school.
2007 Senior
“What we have here is failure to communicate”
This is what I would like to see, Dr. Cleveland respond to each of these comments. We would need someone to combine each concern and question because some of them overlap one another. Then however many there is let her respond. How come she has not given an in-depth interview? I believe she knows this is wrong, I’ve always heard she is a good person. Then how come she is not letting any parents talk to her? They are using buffers with VonAncken, Duncan, and Vesely. The newspaper rarely has her comments it is usually one of those three.
Again, have her answer the questions.
Gerry
Great comment
“What we have here is failure to communicate”
This has been said over and over again. I think because we are short on time we need to put this to a fair vote. No hanky panky. The school board is not going to back us, if they were they already would have. They are all stalling just by the fact they have not allowed a vote by anyone formally. They know their decision would lose in a fair vote. This has power play written all over it. Everyone is pointing fingers but they are not budging. Even the Rio Rancho media is supporting the bad decision and criticizing any little comment that is made.
Keep passing the word along The Pit is still available. All that nonsense with TV feed is garbage and it confirms they messed up. The Rio Rancho media is NOW trying to say that The Pit is only going to hold 11,000, they are still over 60% short! 60% percent is still a lot of people that can’t be there and want to be there. I also think The Pit would hold more then 11,000 people the media has their figures wrong. Also, they said there are 4 ways to get to the Star Center, please draw me a map. You have to drive through Rio Rancho to get to a 2 lane road, and when you get there it is 1 way in and 1 way out. I know, I go to the hockey games.
Abe
Gary Herron, Mike and Genie Ryan and anonymous......
Whoa nelly, I just read your story and saw the pictures they have for you on file that they use for your story line.
Here you all go:
Don't Worry, Be Happy
Here is a little song I wrote
You might want to sing it note for note
Don't worry be happy
In every life we have some trouble
When you worry you make it double
Don't worry, be happy......
Ain't got no place to lay your head
Somebody came and took your bed
Don't worry, be happy
The land lord say your rent is late
He may have to litigate
Don't worry, be happy
Look at me I am happy
Don't worry, be happy
Here I give you my phone number
When you worry call me
I make you happy
Don't worry, be happy
Ain't got no cash, ain't got no style
Ain't got not girl to make you smile
But don't worry be happy
Cause when you worry
Your face will frown
And that will bring everybody down
So don't worry, be happy (now).....
There is this little song I wrote
I hope you learn it note for note
Like good little children
Don't worry, be happy
Listen to what I say
In your life expect some trouble
But when you worry
You make it double
Don't worry, be happy......
Don't worry don't do it, be happy
Put a smile on your face
Don't bring everybody down like this
Don't worry, it will soon past
Whatever it is
Don't worry, be happy.............
Bobby
KOAT-TV in their 5PM newscast on 3/26, just announced 770 seniors will graduate.
RRPS originally stated 700.
We were advised 750.
Now today they are stating 770.
We heard the year started with over 930 seniors and some thought at least 800 would be graduating.
If anyone else hears anything different please update this web log.
Rudy
Hey....
That newscast also said Sue Cleveland in a phone conversation said no to the Pit.
We need to meet with the good Doctor
Pass it on.
Jim
I agree to return to the Pit
We want our family to attend the graduation and 8 tickets will not be enough!
Rio Rancho admin needs to reconsider their decision!
“BACK TO THE PIT”
RRPS we want this graduation at THE PIT, thank you.
For the "good of the order" we are asking that the graduation is returned to it's original location
John
Regarding your current strategy to increase attendance by opening the PAC at the high school and having a TV feed. Seriously, this reactive move actually confirms you are aware that you made a poor decision. What about the extended family members from out of state that have already booked plane tickets? You’re telling the parents sorry pick and choose your favorite and who cares if feelings are hurt. That is awfully callous of you! The graduation should be moved back to The Pit so every family member that want to be there can attend!
RRPS moved the graduation.
You never asked me?
You only let certain people contact you and let you know what they wanted.
Then you did what they wanted.
And what you wanted.
But you never asked me.
Or actually anyone I know.
We support returning the graduation to The Pit.
KOAT-TV coverage - Rio Rancho graduation moving from its original venue at The Pit. There's a short commercial right before the main story.
FIRST STORY:
www.koat.com/video/11177714/index.html?taf=alb
SECOND STORY:
http://www.koat.com/video/11334805/index.html?taf=alb
THIRD STORY:
www.koat.com/video/11390851/index.html?taf=alb
BACK TO THE PIT
We support the return of the 2007 graduation
Reece
Yes lets go back
Marcus
We agree with the petition
Carol
go back to the Pit
Next year or when you open the new school not this year
Too bad RR, you shoulda stayed at the Pit. Break the contract
We agree with this PETITION to return the our graduation back to the PIT.
yes to Pit
OK to the petition
vote yes to The Pit
GO RAMS GO PIT
"RIO RANCHO BASKETBALL TEAM YOU JUST ROCKED THE “PIT”,
YOU JUST WON YOUR FIRST STATE CHAMPIONSHIP;
MR. DUNCAN ENCOURAGED YOU AND ALL STUDENTS
TO “SHOW THEM WE OWN THE ‘PIT’!!
….AND YOU DID!!
WHAT ARE YOU GOING TO DO NOW?
“WE’RE GOING TO DISNEY LAN….WAIT….NO…..
WE WANT TO GO BACK TO THE “PIT” FOR OUR GRADUATION, WE OWN IT NOW!!
DID YOU SEE HOW MANY FANS WE HAD THERE?!
IT WAS GREAT-GO RAMS!!!"
According to KOAT, the Santa Ana Star Center is now going to make skyboxes available for graduation. How are they going to determine who gets the skyboxes? Discuss.
That is news to me, if I hear anything I will share the info.
Tina
WE support the petition 100%
We have started a Hard Copy paper PETITION and if you would like to sign it, please call me and I will meet you to get it signed.
My number again is 994-9648.
Any other ideas?
Let me know, because we need to let them know that WE ARE NOT JUST "MAKING NOISE"
WE all know this is a very important issue to our graduates as well as all of us involved.
We need to continue to show our support.
2007 - Largest Graduating Class in the entire state and in our school’s history.
GO RAMS GO BACK TO THE PIT
I agree:
It is not what you know it is who you know. It is not what you did RRPS it is how you did it.
We are in full support of the return to The Pit.
"Lets not let this one get by us lads or it will be hell to pay"
I would like to thank all of the persons that took the time and energy to allow this Website to be available to the many that were not asked.
Dr. Cleveland, shame on you. Neither you or anyone on your staff has apologized for this decision.
Scott
In the winter of 99 I had a wonderful conversation with a young lady that was passionate about helping children-students-families. What was most remarkable was she was dedicated to the task.
Sadly now I see and read about that same young lady embroiled in a controversial change. So we don’t agree on where to hold graduation that I can live with. It is the HOW that is being carried out and at any cost to keep it in Rio Rancho that causes me distress.
Dr. Susan Cleveland, take a look back 7-8 years when your heart was in the right place. We all know it can be changed. They are going to get your business sometime in the future anyway.
Change this back or put it to a vote.
Sincerely,
Thomas
Hello everyone,
I spoke to THE PIT, yes! They still have May 19TH open! They will not schedule anything on that day.
Cost for THE PIT = $7,800.00
Cost for the Center = $6,200.00
A seat at the Center costs more then a seat at THE PIT.
How about that!
M
This GREAT news tell everyone that this is far from over.
Sid
Hello everyone,
I spoke to THE PIT, yes! They still have May 19TH open! They will not schedule anything on that day.
Cost for THE PIT = $7,800.00
Cost for the Center = $6,200.00
A seat at the Center costs more then a seat at THE PIT.
How about that!
M
CHANGE IT BACK TO THE PIT!
I WANT MY FAMILY TO SEE ME GRADUATE!
Concerned persons,
With the confirmed information that The Pit is still open for business on May 19TH, may we encourage everyone to NOT GIVE UP.
The decision was never fair and that is why we will not give up.
Contracts can be broken.
Tremendous stress is being placed on families.
After all is said and done the new venue is NOT cost effective as they tried to purport.
The newspaper comments on Sunday (3/25) do not have all the facts and have only fueled my fire.
Share this information with everyone you know.
Thank you,
Robert
I am an 18-year-old graduating Senior. I believe I understand why the administration changed our graduation.
My question to you is do you understand what you did is wrong?
J
I would like to suggest when you all open the other high school then at that time you can have your graduation in Rio Rancho. It is obvious that no matter what anyone says to you still refuse to admit you are wrong. You have yet to apologies to the families you have affected. You are hiding and stalling time. RRHS will continue to have the most seniors graduating year in and year out. Who is in charge of keeping count? Please if I know that how is it the ones responsible for this somehow forgot this important information? That is why a new school is needed in the first place right? We fully support that you return the graduation to the pit. Dr. Cleveland we are not trying to be disrespectful to you. However we are very upset that you are willing to continue down this path “through Rio Rancho to a 2 lane road with only 1 way in and 1 way out”, poor parking, too small, etc.
Blake
Keep this Petition going
http://129.24.2.119/fbonline5/calendar.asp?filter=&month=5&day=19&year=2007&x=14&y=6
Please paste this info into your browser.
We can still return to “The Pit”.
What RRPS and staff did was WRONG!
No input
No vote
No say
No way
BACK TO THE PIT!
Ditto to every COMMENT here
I am a graduate of 2007. I dont think that they handled this change in a very good way. The way they changed it at the minute was so wrong. They are puttin more stress on us seniors because not only do we have to worry about our finals, thesis, and now we have to worry about who to pick from our families to attend our graduation. I think since the school board thinks for all of us they should tell each and everyone of us seniors who to pick in our family to come watch us graduate and who we should their feelings for not lettin them come watch us. We dont want to have to pick and choose who attends our graduation. We want to prove to our family that we did it and now we will be starting a new chapter in our lives. WE WANT IT AT THE PIT!!! Another thing from the paper on sunday 3/25/07 why dont they want to ask us what we think about this instead of writing stuff about us because we are expressing how we feel about the change its just wrong how our own rio rancho paper wont even try to come and ask us what we think they are suppose to be our paper but instead they are talking about us that are "griping" about the issue, its sad how albuquerque will support us and do stories for us but our own rio rancho paper wont.Shows how much rio rancho paper cares about there community, graduating seniors and there families. It makes rio rancho look really good. Thanks Everyone From Albuquerque For All Of The Support You Are Giving Us Graduating Seniors Of 2007!!!
IDEA///AS CLASS OF 2007 AS A WHOLE WHY DONT WE RENT THE PIT. THERE WAS AN COMMENT TO CHARGE 1.00 PER PERSON FOR ENTRY AND ALL MONEYS GO TO THE PIT MAYBE WE CAN GET A DISCOUNT OF SOME SORT AND LETS LEAVE THE SCHOOL BOARD OUT OF THE GRADUATION. LETS SEE HOW THEY LIKE IT
That is a great idea but in order to do that we are going to need a lot of support. we cant just let the pit know and then on that day only a few of us show up. we have to make sure that everyone who wants it at the pit is going to show up at the pit on that day and is not going to back down.
My Graduation 2007
Class Ring - $400 (In Albuquerque)
Announcements/Cap & Gown - $200 (In Albuquerque)
Invitations - $150 (In Albuquerque)
Graduation pictures - $400 (In Albuquerque)
8 family members flying in - $3,600
Graduation party - $2,000
Having my entire family who encouraged me
for 13 years celebrate with me at THE PIT – PRICELESS!!!
A parent suggested that we contact all the families that want it at The Pit and then tell the administration we would pay for it?
The Pit cost is $7,800
divided by
600 families
equals $13.00 each!
That is THIRTEEN dollars each!
Not much, huh?!
or 500 families
equals $15.60 each!
Good ideas by everyone!
Don't forget to tell everyone to contact this Blog Spot and to call Yvette - 994-9648
Gwen
Don't GIvE UP!
GO BIG or STAY HOME RRPS!
GO BACK TO THE PIT!
IDEA// IF YOU TAKE 750 X 10. DEPENDING ON SIZE OF FAMILY TO ATTEND THATS NOT INCLUDING FRIENDS THAT COMES TO 7500.00 THATS PLENTY NOT TO BAD.
I think this was already mentioned but it is very important for Dr. Cleveland to please consider this very important fact -
If they put it to a vote now right now, the Graduation would go back to “The Pit" please really think about this.
They are displacing over 10,000+ persons that would like to come!
Max
KOAT-TV in their 5PM newscast on 3/26, announced 770 seniors will graduate.
RRPS originally stated 700.
We were advised 750.
Now today they are stating 770.
We heard the year started with over 930 seniors and some thought at least 800 would be graduating.
If anyone else hears anything different please update this web log.
770x10 = $7,700.00
we can do it!!!
Rudy
SERIOUSLY…SIMPLY, WHAT PRICE DO YOU PLACE ON A CELEBRATION OF LOVE AND LIFE?!
THE COST THE SAVINGS THAT MRS. CLEVELAND AND MR. VONANCKEN ALLUDE TO ABSOLUTELY DO NOT OUT WEIGH WHAT WILL BE COMPLETELY LOST!
YES, EVEN TO ATTEMPT TO PLACE A PRICE ON THIS ENTIRE PROCESS, CELEBRATION AND EVENT IS INAPPROPRIATE BECAUSE IT IS TRULY “PRICELESS”!
TO ARGUE THIS IMPORTANT POINT IS IGNORANCE AND…..WELL….VERY WRONG.
Maggie
We have started a Hard Copy paper PETITION and if you would like to sign it, please call me and I will meet you to get it signed.
My number again is 994-9648.
Any other ideas?
Let me know, because we need to let them know that WE ARE NOT JUST "MAKING NOISE"
WE all know this is a very important issue to our graduates as well as all of us involved.
We need to continue to show our support.
back to the pit back to the pit back to the pit
THOMAS, YOU ARE RIGHT THE SANTA ANA STAR CENTER WILL RECIEVE THERE BUSINESS IN THE FUTURE ANYWAY. IM SORRY THE PERSON YOU NEW HAD A HEART MAYBE SOME DAY YOU WILL KNOW THAT PERSON AGAIN
Families along with graduates have been discriminated against.
Not everyone was allowed to have a voice in this decision.
Dr. Cleveland has not apologized for disrupting the lives of the Class of 2007 and their loved ones.
She stated,
"We've heard more positive than negative. I do understand the concern people have about it,"
Obviously she failed to take everything into account and how this adversely impacts families.
Gary Herron a reporter for The Observer of Rio Rancho or any reporter from this newspaper has yet to interview anyone that disagrees with the decision.
He suggested in his editorial rant:
Anyone under the age of 10 should stay home and not be allowed to attend any graduation!
Not only are they discriminating against anyone with a large family they want to discriminate against your age!
Also, Herron thinks he scores points by alleging that holding an election would be too complicated and expensive. He writes: "Let me play devil's advocate here. How would you hold this election? One vote per parent of a senior? One vote per family? One vote per graduate? Only registered voters eligible? Online? Who pays for it?"
These are silly objections: A sufficient number of single-sheet paper ballots could be printed at little cost; the parents or legal guardians of graduates and the graduates themselves would be eligible to vote (easy enough to keep track of because the High School has a list of the graduates and their parents). The vote would take place at the High School on a pre-announced date. Volunteers would count the votes.
Simple as pie.
This guy is keeping the company line and wrote a lot of other horrible things.
This overall decision is highly one sided and they are forcing and expecting people to accept it because “they said so!”
Go back to the Pit.
Art
OK, now that I know The Pit is still open for business I want to Go Back To The Pit
Laura
“What we have here is failure to communicate”
This has been said over and over again. I think because we are short on time we need to put this to a fair vote. No hanky panky. The school board is not going to back us, if they were they already would have. They are all stalling just by the fact they have not allowed a vote by anyone formally. They know their decision would lose in a fair vote. This has power play written all over it. Everyone is pointing fingers but they are not budging. Even the Rio Rancho media is supporting the bad decision and criticizing any little comment that is made.
Keep passing the word along The Pit is still available. All that nonsense with TV feed is garbage and it confirms they messed up. The Rio Rancho media is NOW trying to say that The Pit is only going to hold 11,000, they are still over 60% short! 60% percent is still a lot of people that can’t be there and want to be there. I also think The Pit would hold more then 11,000 people the media has their figures wrong. Also, they said there are 4 ways to get to the Star Center, please draw me a map. You have to drive through Rio Rancho to get to a 2 lane road, and when you get there it is 1 way in and 1 way out. I know, I go to the hockey games.
Merle
This e-mail is regarding the Common Sense article written in the Rio Rancho Journal.
Being a student at Rio Rancho High School and waking up to read this article from you both, Mike and Genie Ryan, made me think of what common sense you both must have in writing this article.
Whether or not you grew up in big families that fully supported you through your life, you clearly don’t understand the, as you put it, "gripe" those of us with big families are having because of the ticket limit.
I do think it is a great idea to hold graduation in my wonderful hometown, but it’s a shame that all of the people I want there may not get to go.
Is it really my fault that I have a large immediate family?
Should I as a senior really have to pick which family members should go with the extra tickets I have dug up by myself.
Also, uniforms were voted on when I was in fifth grade and we were just supposed to be “trying them out;” so maybe that was the outrage over that.
Are you saying people can’t speak up if they don’t agree with the way you think?
Because that is how it sounds.
Also, regarding parents voicing opinions on test scores, drop out rates, and curriculum; this point in your article has nothing to do with the students that are graduating and shouldn’t even be mentioned because those parents that are outraged have kids that obviously didn’t drop out and had good test scores.
Personally I believe Rio Rancho’s curriculum is great.
Furthermore, your other huge point that has nothing to do with the GRADUATING SENIORS is parents caring about what their children are learning.
The seniors that are graduating have already learned, hence the reason for a graduation ceremony.
Your are right though that parents need to be involved and I’m glad mine are in trying to somehow make my very large, supportive family attend my graduation.
Also, don’t assume these “griping” parents don’t care about what their children are learning because you have no right to and it has nothing to do with why they are “griping” in the first place.
If you don’t see what the “big deal” is about me not having my family at my ceremony then you might as well suggest not having a ceremony at all, because you must not comprehend the point of what a graduation ceremony is.
You also state you don’t understand why parents wont let it go?
It’s because we still can’t have all of our family attend, DUH!
You’re right about making graduation special for the graduates, but what you don’t understand is part of making it special is having my whole family there which is why we’re still “griping”.
I hope you understand the hypocrisy of your article.
I do hope my parents take your advice and become involved and make my graduation even more special; and that is by continuing to challenge the change of venues.
Also you say this will be the first graduation in Rio Rancho, then you go to say Independence is.
I’m truly sorry of the hypocrisy and confusion of your article, the lack of common sense two human beings have in putting together this article, the Journals decision to hire two people who clearly state they just don’t understand what they are writing about; as you clearly mention in your article several times.
Sincerely I hope you’ll get some common sense, be able to understand your topic and just not worry about the vehemence, the passion of Rio Rancho’s families over this very important topic, better yet “Get Over It”.
2007 Senior
ditto to this HUGE SNAFU!!!
I understand the chaos of organizing a high school graduation and inevitably someone is going to be less than happy about the result. But to callously disregard the plans and wishes of multiple family members goes beyond any kind of administrative SNAFU.
Graduation ceremonies are ultimately about the achievements of the students and an opportunity for loved ones to celebrate those achievements. For Rio Rancho to dismiss the concerns and outrage of family members is to disregard the spirit of the ceremony.
Isn't obvious? Do the right thing.
“Fail to Plan
Plan to Fail”
"We'll have to have cable."
"What are you doing for DISH subscribers?"
You are trying to put a band-aid on a severe wound
Thanks Malone
Aubry
Capacity of the Pit:
18,000 plus can fit.
A section is blocked off so now 12,000 can fit.
They had to open up that section for last year’s graduation for us because we had the largest Class, which meant more people.
The 2007 Class is even Bigger, which will mean more people.
The media and school started out saying that 690 Seniors would be graduating; NOW they are saying 770 Seniors are graduating.
That means their figures were off and there will be more people coming.
Do you realize the graduating Class WILL be even bigger as each year goes by?
The section can be opened up so 13,000, 15,000 or up to 18,000 people as needed.
IF YOU DON’T THINK THE NUMBERS ARE CORRECT, CALL THE PIT.
A local newspaper reporter (Gary Herron) is trying to say 11,000 would come BUT remember, he is basing it on what he thinks last years’ numbers were, but he his wrong. Then he suggests that 10 years old and under CANNOT attend the graduation! Can you believe that? He is WRONG on last years’ numbers because they had to open up the section that is closed off, so there were more then 11,000 people present, this means more will come this year along with anyone under the age of 10!
Rio Rancho year in and year out AVERAGES roughly 20 people per graduate. That is an average.
Whatever numbers you want to use the fact remains the same 11,000+ to 15,000+ people are being affected by this decision.
“Let me play the devil’s advocate”, WHAT IS WRONG WITH RIO RANCHO “PACKING THE PIT” FOR A GRADUATION?
We should be proud we did! Isn’t it true that Sue Cleveland and company, Gary Herron and Coach Brian Smith exhorted and hoped that we would “Pack The Pit” for all of basketball games?
Didn’t Mayor Jackson show his support and come out for the game; I think that is Great that he showed his support over a GAME?
QUOTING: Mayor Kevin Jackson said the development of the city's school district has given Rio Rancho a sense of identity.
"We didn't have that when I was growing up," said Jackson, who has lived in Rio Rancho since the 1960s and plans to attend tonight's championship. "There's an elevation in pride in how well the teams have done, not just in athletics, but in academic, student government and all the student-related programs."
QUOTING: "You saw the crowd tonight," Rio Rancho coach Brian Smith said after the Rams semifinal win Thursday night at The Pit. "There are 70,000 people in Rio Rancho. This place should be packed. Where is everybody?"
I think this was Great too showing support and networking with others!
QUOTING: Sarah Stevenson, a team manager, hung flyers around the sprawling Rio Rancho campus Thursday to promote the game.
"I saw a lot of people stopping to look at them and a lot of people asked me about the game," Stevenson said.
Her mother, who works at a local elementary school, told Stevenson that e-mails about Rams basketball have been flowing into her inbox. Gary did you do these interviews? No that was an Albuquerque Tribune reporter.
Consider then we want to “PACK THE PIT” for a sporting event, AND I DO TOO, why not “PACK THE PIT” for RRPS’s BIGGEST EVENT, their High School Graduation?!
I would hope our Mayor that showed that much enthusiasm for a “game” would show more for the WRONG being imposed on the Class of 2007.
I would hope Sue Cleveland and company, along with Gary Herron and other media that showed that much enthusiasm for a “game” would show more for the WRONG being imposed on the Class of 2007 especially our Seniors our children!
Weren’t we condemned and criticized in the news, in public for our emails and networking to get this situation changed?
Mayor Jackson, Sue Cleveland and company, Gary Herron, the Ryans and other media, which is more important a “game” or a graduation? I feel they are both important.
What about the fact that several thousands are affected men, women and children?
What about the fact an injustice has been dealt them?
What is wrong with anyone striving for:
“We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed, by their Creator, with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty, and the pursuit of Happiness”
“GO BACK TO THE PIT – PACK THE PIT” anyone under 10 are welcome too!
Lorenzo
VOTE!!!!!!!!
We WANT a vote for moving graduation back to The PIT since it is the only place that can accommodate a large audience. America is about Democracy and this change is the exact opposite of that. We live in New Mexico, a state in accordance to the United States Constitution.
Les
I have been reading all of these comments and it reminded of the past graduations I have been to. The speaker’s comments and theme range from: You’ve done it!; You are tomorrow’s future!; You have your whole lives ahead of you!; Atta Boy!; and everything else in-between. I have to admit I was always a sap for these speeches. I appreciated the heartfelt effort of the person giving it as well.
To The Graduating Class of 2007, what a wonderful message district office is sending you this year! There are so many excellent “Comments” posted here all you have to do is read them to understand the real message from district office.
THE PIT IS STILL OPEN it is time to pick up the pace and PASS THIS ON!
Jonny
Take our Graduation Back To The Pit!!!
I have gone to Rio Rancho Schools for 12 years now.
I am an AP student and have been on the Honor Roll all 12 years.
This decision is NOT FAIR!
The newspaper said we were being "greedy", just because we want to put this to a fair vote?
Shame on them for insulting thousands of people for speaking up.
07 Senior
Hi, did you hear about the new decision that RRHS has now? They want to broadcast it on TV. Ouch, not everyone has cable. WOW what a great IDEA lets just let friends and family sit in our living room with a bowl of popcorn and soda and enjoy the show. That is exactly how they are trying to sell it. How is it they really think people will be ok with that? Why go to all that trouble when we can drive down the hill to The Famous Pit?
Shelly
MY NAME IS LATISHA AND I AM 11 YEARS OLD I HAVE A SISTER WHO IS A GRADUATE AND I AM VERY SAD TO HEAR WHAT IS HAPPENING. I WAS TOLD THAT I MIGHT HAVE TO STAY HOME. I LOOK UP TO MY SISTER AND I AM PROUD OF HER. SHE HAS WORKED HARD TO GET TO WHERE SHE IS. I CRIED WHEN MY MOM TOLD ME AND MY BROTHER WHO IS 7YEARS OLD THE NEWS PAPER SAID THAT THEY SHOULD LEAVE 10 AN YOUNGER AT HOME AM I SUPOSE TO WATCH MY BROTHER INSTEAD OF MY SISTER GRADUATE? I DONT KNOW WHY THE SCHOOL BOARD WANTS TO DO THIS TO MY FAMILY AND LOTS OF OTHER FAMILYS ALSO. IT SADDENS ME BECAUSE I WILL GRADUATE SOME DAY AND I DONT WANT THIS TO HAPPEN TO ME. CAN SOME ONE PLEASE HELP ME SO I SEE MY SISTER GRADUATE. I WOULD LIKE TO GO TO THE PIT SO I CAN GO WITH MY GRANDMA AND GRANDPA AND MY ANTIES I LOVE MY SISTER PLEASE BACK TO THE PIT. SAD IN RIO RANCHO LATISHA
Some GREAT reading here.
After taking the time to really consider all of the reasons the administration decided to change our graduation. I have concluded beyond a shadow of a doubt that their reasons are self-serving. Their decisions discriminate against families and graduates and do not allow everyone to have a voice in this decision. It also places hardship, stress and is a serious distraction in people’s lives. It was completely one sided. At this time if they would allow us to vote they would lose. They will not allow us to vote at all costs. This will take legal action or enough people to complain about this decision. They are not listening and not conceding they are wrong.
Additionally, it is overtly obvious that there is a vast difference between the coverage on the news and the quality of the journalism concerning the Rio Rancho Observer, G. Herron, the Rio Rancho Journal, specifically the Ryans and the Tribune. Specifically, Herron and the Ryans editorial were both very offensive and poorly put together, with points that make no connections, other then to back the system. They never addressed the serious issues and made light of the fact a vote or fair input was not allowed; tickets are an obstacle; too bad for anyone’s extended family; and discriminated against persons concerning their age! (Herron) actually placed an age limit on the event! They degraded and shamed families for requesting relief and made their best argument to tell them to shut up, using because we told you so rhetoric, were smart your not, we know you don’t logic.
The other Journal and Tribune reporters presented the information that was given to them in a balanced manner.
NOTE: Our very own newspaper in the city of vision the Observer has NOT interviewed anyone that opposes this decision! Repeat has NOT! Which begs to ask…..WHY?
Can anyone say,
"Conflict of Interest"
Or
"Corporate Partners"
Go back to the Pit.
Randy
Dr. Cleveland, you need to help an 11 year old and a 7 year old here in your school system, NOW please!
Ben
Anonymous said...
MY NAME IS LATISHA AND I AM 11 YEARS OLD I HAVE A SISTER WHO IS A GRADUATE AND I AM VERY SAD TO HEAR WHAT IS HAPPENING. I WAS TOLD THAT I MIGHT HAVE TO STAY HOME. I LOOK UP TO MY SISTER AND I AM PROUD OF HER. SHE HAS WORKED HARD TO GET TO WHERE SHE IS. I CRIED WHEN MY MOM TOLD ME AND MY BROTHER WHO IS 7YEARS OLD THE NEWS PAPER SAID THAT THEY SHOULD LEAVE 10 AN YOUNGER AT HOME AM I SUPOSE TO WATCH MY BROTHER INSTEAD OF MY SISTER GRADUATE? I DONT KNOW WHY THE SCHOOL BOARD WANTS TO DO THIS TO MY FAMILY AND LOTS OF OTHER FAMILYS ALSO. IT SADDENS ME BECAUSE I WILL GRADUATE SOME DAY AND I DONT WANT THIS TO HAPPEN TO ME. CAN SOME ONE PLEASE HELP ME SO I SEE MY SISTER GRADUATE. I WOULD LIKE TO GO TO THE PIT SO I CAN GO WITH MY GRANDMA AND GRANDPA AND MY ANTIES I LOVE MY SISTER PLEASE BACK TO THE PIT. SAD IN RIO RANCHO LATISHA
"NOTE: Our very own newspaper in the city of vision the Observer has NOT interviewed anyone that opposes this decision! Repeat has NOT! Which begs to ask…..WHY?"
Call Yvette 994-9648 she will give you and interview
I WOULD LIKE TO KNOW WHY THE SCHOOL BOARD IS MAKING IT MANDITORY FOR THE TEACHERS FROM THE RIO RANCHO MID HIGH ATTEND THE GRADUTION? THATS JUST MORE SEATS THEY ARE TAKING UP. MOST OF THE TEACHERS FROM THE MID HIGH DO WISH TO ATTEND
Herron from the rio rancho paper was very wrong for trying to put an age limit on who may attend the graduation.The way I see it at a senior is we are role models for the younger children to stay in school so they will accomplish this in their life. It teaches children that if we can do it they can do it too just stay in school and do good.It is wrong to not let them go then it just makes them think well since I may not attend to see them graduate why should they? It is also making Herron look really bad for trying to say that children 10 years and under should stay home with a babysitter. Why dont he stay home himself? We seniors are really good role models for those that are younger so they will want to stay in school. IT shows them that anything we put our minds to and make goals we can accomplish. We Need to go back to the Pit so everyone may attend no matter what the age is.
So Mr. "Rant and Rave" is upset that an individual blog set up to air the views of parents who disagree with the decision to move the Rio Rancho High School graduation ceremony won't post his comments. But isn't he the same guy who dismisses, as ridiculous, the complaint that publicly elected officials made a decision affecting hundreds, if not thousands, of people without giving proper notice, without allowing discussion, without taking into account dissenting opinions? So my fellow American who's really the hypocrite here? Or do you having trouble reading?
Oh, before I forget “little Johnny” is a graduating Senior, thank you very much, and can read! Evidently you can’t! Excuse me but the very first page of the blog allows you to comment if you are against having the graduation at The Pit. “Here’s the thing” you were in the w-r-o-n-g section sir or ma’am! So go find the right section and present your opposing points of view.
Melissa
Regarding this rant that is in The Observer 3/29/07 issue:
"If you agree with the folks who believe, in error, that they have a constitutional right to invite 50 relatives to little Johnny's high school graduation, then you should go to the Web site they've setup on blogspot and type to your heart's content. If you are among those of us who are glad that we are finally able to hold graduation in our own city, forget about the site. All opposing points of view are being promptly deleted. So much for inviting public comment. The funny thing about it is how many of the posts there are all about rights, equality, public debate, and amber waves of grain. The good news is that little Johnny is almost a graduate. At least he will know what 'hypocrite' means."
Basically, there are two (2) sections you are welcome to “COMMENT” if you are “for” The Pit or if you are “against” The Pit.
The Web Log Blog’s opening page has from the very beginning clearly stated that there are two (2) ways to "COMMENT" and allows both "for" and "against" sections. It has very simple instructions and anyone that can read regardless of age can easily understand it.
The "If you are against the move to return to THE PIT, " section specially wrote this person that “ranted” and advised them that they could take his/her time and expound on as many points that they disagreed with and submit their feelings. They were given “carte blanche” to write as much as they wanted. We have yet to officially hear back from this person or persons. You can still actually go to the blog and read the comment to this same person that “ranted”, it is still on the blog to verify that this explanation is accurate.
Additionally, this very same person was advised repeatedly that they were in the wrong section and clearly disregarded that advice.
echarles1234@aol.com
Say it ain’t so Mr. "Rant and Rave"
You were told repeatedly you were in the wrong section and you disregarded the advice?
Wow, you sound like a person that demands their own way?
Just from the tone of your “rant” and how you mocked “little Johnny” it is crystal clear that your views are paramount over anyone else’s?
You could not read the accurate instructions and then disregarded them when they were given to you?
Further, you were allowed and encouraged to comment and you have not provided your opposing points of view?
Well, we would still like to return to The Pit it is that simple.
Melissa
Take our graduation back to the PIT
Belinda
YOU MADE A DECISION AFFECTING THOUSANDS OF PEOPLE
MEN, WOMEN AND CHILDREN
WITHOUT GIVING PROPER NOTICE,
WITHOUT ALLOWING DISCUSSION,
WITHOUT TAKING INTO ACCOUNT DISSENTING OPINIONS!
THANK YOU MELISSA
WAYNE
PLEASE SIGN THE PETITION said...
SIGN THE PETITION
Add your name and/or comments to this thread. If you want to go BACK TO THE PIT click on "COMMENTS" below and write in the space provided. To sign up for a Google account, is completely free, or you can comment using the other options.
Contact us at cmj2nc@aol.com
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?
YOU MADE A DECISION AFFECTING THOUSANDS OF PEOPLE
MEN, WOMEN AND CHILDREN
WITHOUT GIVING PROPER NOTICE,
WITHOUT ALLOWING DISCUSSION,
WITHOUT TAKING INTO ACCOUNT DISSENTING OPINIONS!
NO MATTER WHICH AMERICAN FLAG YOU WAIVE ALL OF THIS IS ALLOWED IN OUR COUNTRY!
THANK YOU MELISSA
Harry
WHAT DID WE DO WRONG?
I’m going to start this comment here and encourage anyone that would like our graduation to return to THE PIT to add on to this comment if you would like:
I started out this comment with a question. If nobody had raised concerns then we would have never been made to feel like “the bad guy”, like we did something wrong, because I see the stress this is causing my parents and my friends and many others. Something is very wrong here if people in the news media are going to make you feel bad. Anonymous people putting down my fellow graduates calling them “little Johnny” and making fun of his “large family”, telling him his parents and all of us were “hypocrites” for questioning the decision and boasting how American they are and we aren’t! Who could be so important in this great big world to design such a “caste system” type of thinking?
I can tell you this Dr. Cleveland they have motivated me TO TRY EVEN HARDER NOW! We know The Pit is still open for business and the Star Center can break your contract. Just like this person so rudely stated what words “little Johnny” would learn I have learned a few myself, “WE HAVE DONE NOTHING WRONG”!
Class of 2007
"little Johnny's new words:
“ . . . That to secure these rights, Governments are instituted among Men, deriving their just powers from the consent of the governed, That whenever any Form of Government becomes destructive of these ends, it is the Right of the People to alter or abolish it, and to institute new Government, laying its foundation on such principles, and organizing its powers in such form, as to them shall seem most likely to effect their Safety and HAPPINESS . . . it is their right, it is their duty, to throw off such Government, and to provide new Guards for their future security. . .”
Lloyd
Original Blog:
DR. Cleveland, WHAT DID WE DO WRONG? said...
WHAT DID WE DO WRONG?
I’m going to start this comment here and encourage anyone that would like our graduation to return to THE PIT to add on to this comment if you would like:
I started out this comment with a question. If nobody had raised concerns then we would have never been made to feel like “the bad guy”, like we did something wrong, because I see the stress this is causing my parents and my friends and many others. Something is very wrong here if people in the news media are going to make you feel bad. Anonymous people putting down my fellow graduates calling them “little Johnny” and making fun of his “large family”, telling him his parents and all of us were “hypocrites” for questioning the decision and boasting how American they are and we aren’t! Who could be so important in this great big world to design such a “caste system” type of thinking?
I can tell you this Dr. Cleveland they have motivated me TO TRY EVEN HARDER NOW! We know The Pit is still open for business and the Star Center can break your contract. Just like this person so rudely stated what words “little Johnny” would learn I have learned a few myself, “WE HAVE DONE NOTHING WRONG”!
Class of 2007
So who's going to wake up little Susie?
This stinks! RRPS has been less than truthful with RRHS students and their families. This is a public high school, so why are we having a private graduation? It's so private that even the families of the graduates are not welcome.
Gloria
Dr. Cleveland,
Gloria brings up a very good point. We are a public High School, but have made the graduation private. Is it because Mr. VonAncken was booed last year? What do you think is going to happen this year? Graduating seniors booing him last year indicates you need to find out why that happened?
Jesse
Hello,
They "do" or don't want to attend?
Alex
Anonymous said...
I WOULD LIKE TO KNOW WHY THE SCHOOL BOARD IS MAKING IT MANDITORY FOR THE TEACHERS FROM THE RIO RANCHO MID HIGH ATTEND THE GRADUTION? THATS JUST MORE SEATS THEY ARE TAKING UP. MOST OF THE TEACHERS FROM THE MID HIGH DO WISH TO ATTEND
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