AUDREY KEIM –
CV Student Media –
A high school parking lot is expected to be filled with old, dilapidated sedans or hand-me-down compact cars.
But at Castle View, the spots are largely taken by jeeps and trucks, old and new. These types of vehicles tend to be more expensive, which is why their abundance comes as somewhat of a surprise, considering that most students work for around $8 an hour.
“I don’t think many people can own a jeep or a truck without their parents’ help for money. Since Castle Rock is a sort of rural town and because we have so many people from Sedalia and Larkspur, it makes sense that some students need trucks,” said Jacalyn Dihle, who did not drive a jeep or a truck – rather, a green beast of a van she inherited from her parents. “I guess they are trendy. They are both outdoor vehicles and we live in a state where people like to be outside and do outdoor activities. Some people buy them just for looks though; they want to appear ‘cool’.”
As far as Jeeps go, the parking lot held all kinds of Liberties, Rubicons, and Wranglers in various conditions. Brayden Porter was one of many Jeep owners at Castle View High School – and already on his second.
“I’ve had two jeeps so far. The reason I like driving a jeep is that you can take it pretty much anywhere, including off-roading. There are a lot more things you can do with a jeep than with other kinds of cars. The only bad thing is the gas mileage,” said Porter, who had to retire his first after expensive engine problems. “My first one was a 1995 Jeep Grand Cherokee: you can get one of those for about $3000. My new one is a 2005 Jeep Grand Cherokee that was listed for $12,500, and I bought with my own money.”
Buying either a jeep or a truck was a major financial toll on students, but some managed to own the vehicles without having to fork over thousands.
“I drive a 2003 Chevrolet Avalanche, and it was given to me by my mom so I didn’t have to pay anything for it, but I have added some upgrades to it,” said Nicklaus Leitmayr, who used to work at the local Nike Outlet store. “It’s true that some people at Castle View buy their own jeeps and trucks, but I’m sure that parents had to help pay for some of the newer ones in the parking lot.”
Old or new, bought or paid for, taken through mud or just for show, the school parking boasted a lot of jeeps and trucks this year.