Volume 48 Issue 2 - November 2, 2012

Gangnam Style enters mainstream

Lone Pine maze was haunted for October

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page 4-5

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Discover the history of onion rings Backpage

a student newspaper

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Sheldon High School 2455 willakenzie Rd., Eugene, Or 97401 vol. 48 Issue 2 Nov. 2, 2012

Sheldon Dublinaires sing for the new season Setting high standards, Dubs maintain their excellence as performers Cya Silva opinions editor They sang at the inauguration of President Obama, they’re an award-winning group of talented individuals, they’re going to sing in Carnegie Hall, and they rank as the second-best choir in the nation. They are the Sheldon Dublinaires - affectionately known to the Sheldon community as the Dubs. The Dubs are an important part of Sheldon because they represent values like hard work, leadership, and cultivation of talent. Though it is difficult to qualify as a member of the group, it provides an opportunity for driven, musical students to cooperate and be something larger than themselves. During the next few months, the dubs will be showcasing their wonderful work, singing to liven the spirits of the community.

Though the Dubs have achieved much, they aren’t always well known at Sheldon. “It’s too often that I find out people don’t even know who we are or what Dubs is,” senior Dubs VP Amy Follet said. “We are a vocal jazz ensemble. We may not quite be Glee, but we are a showy group and entertainers.”

The first Dubs gig was the morning of October 30 at the HIV Alliance breakfast at the Hilton Hotel in downtown Eugene. They performed a small selection of songs and made a very good impression. Despite some issues with members getting sick and not being able to go, they sang well, putting on a smooth production that would sound effortless to any listener. As the Dubs progress, their performances will only get better.

“We take great pride in representing Sheldon as a whole in our own community and when we travel to competitions,” said Dubs director and choir teacher Nancy Anderson. And represent they do, going to gig after gig

as well as several competitions. Senior Brian Theisfield commented, “[I have] no idea how many [gigs we have this season].” He promptly gestured to his uniform: “We live in this, [though]. It’s like a second skin.” Senior Jackie Jones also commented, “Let’s say, between October 20 and [the end of] December, you’re generally guaranteed anywhere from fifteen to thirty gigs.” Anderson also stated, “We’ll probably go to [the] Pleasant Hill [Jazz Festival] in April.” As the Dublinaires enter into their busiest season, all members work extremely hard to maintain the highest quality possible. As Theisfield said, the Dubs are constantly changing into their uniform of green and white.

There are almost always traditions in select groups, and the Dubs are by no means an exception. “We try to do a retreat in the fall so we all get to know each other. We [also] give each other nicknames.” Dublinaires tend to be a close knit

group through each year, and they all seem to love being part of it. “Dubs is like a family and basically sums up my high school experience. I am so honored to be part of it,” Follet said. The Dubs spend a lot of time with each other, bonding as peers do when they cooperate to reach a common goal.

For some people who aspire to be in Dubs, it can be done with the right amount of work. “You have to have choir experience [and] be able to read music,” Anderson stated.

Auditions can be signed up for in May and practiced for during lunch throughout May. Be adventurous, for the Dublinaires could await you to become another proud representative of Sheldon in our community and nation. Sheldon students should acknowledge the Dubs; positive encouragement is always welcome. As for the Dublinaires themselves, the reward is inherent in their great sound each time they step out and sing.

Cya Silva photo

The Dublinaires sing in their first gig of the year at the Hilton in downtown Eugene for the HIV Alliance breakfast, opening in full attire with a selection of seasonals. Their performances will only get better.

Inside Sheldon Theatre: look behind the curtain Sheldon students dedicate many hours to preparation for theatre Ethan Hauck copy editor Imagine you are standing in front of two-hundred people.

Then lights turn on, the curtain raises, and suddenly all eyes are on you. Two hours later the play is over, and the stage fright passes after the first act. All of your friends and family are hugging you, shouting congratulations.

The actors might make it look easy, but there may be more than you think that goes into a single production.

Sophomore T.J. Strong has done drama for two years now and had nothing but good things to say about it. “I really

enjoy drama, it can be really fun. All of the people are great and we always have a great time.” When asked if he would recommend drama to other people, Strong said, “Of course!

The class is really fun and you make a lot of new friends.”

Junior Ezekiel Smith said that not all people are cut out for the actual acting in drama. “There are plenty of people that get stage fright, heck, even I do. The key to a good actor is overcoming the stage fright each time.” Smith later added, “If your memory isn’t good, you shouldn’t sign up for acting. You only have so much time to memorize your lines. You have to be able to remember your lines, because if one person forgets their lines, it can ruin the whole play.”

When asked about production and the problems and time associated with it, sophomore Carley Kramer stated, “Production usually takes between one and two months. We have been working on the play since school started, and it comes out November 9. There aren’t that

many problems that we’ve had this year, apart from the occasional actor missing their rehearsal, or the set not being completed as soon as Ms. Anderson wanted.

Each and every one of the students interviewed said they would recommend drama to other students. Very few had bad things to say about it, and if they did it was only about stage fright or such. They all agreed that drama can be very fun if you have the right mindset. If you think that you have what it takes to act, or just want to help with building the set, they all suggest that you at least drop in to check it out.

Love’s Labor’s Lost- The Musical, the upcoming drama production comes out November 9 at 10:00 p.m. and also airs on November 10, 16, and 17 all at 10:00, the matinee is on November 11 at 2:00 p.m. Tickets are being sold by select drama members for $7.00 before release and will sell for $10.00 for adults on release night.

The box office opens one hour prior to the performance.

Homecoming: dance your way into the tradition Homecoming is important for many Sheldon students as one of only two dances happening in 2012-2013 C.J. Vangsnes staff writer It’s homecoming time everyone! Or at least it was. The lights, music, food, and décor are all factors that help to make homecoming a great success or an utter failure.

Homecoming is a time for ALL Sheldon students who like to dance to get together at the start of the year and have the time of their lives. Some consider it a smaller version of Prom, and freshmen and sophomores look forward to homecoming so they can party with the juniors and seniors.

Senior Hannah Rogers, who went to homecoming said, “I went to homecoming and I LOVED it!” Rogers continued with, “The music was good the whole time, the décor was brilliant, and the dancing altogether was fun.”

Rogers ended with, “Everyone there looked like they were having a great time dancing and being with other peers.”

Sophomore Corey Dayton, who went to homecoming

said, “Homecoming was a BORE; it was just a bunch of dancing and lame decorations.” Dayton later added, “The décor was lame, the music was boring most of the time, and everyone looked too happy.”

Churchill sophomore Carly Walker, who attended Sheldon’s Homecoming dance said, “I feel homecoming is a VERY important dance because it allows freshmen, sophomores, and upper classmen to go to the same dance together.” Walker later said, “I LOVED homecoming! The lights, music, and décor were PERFECT!” Walker continued with, “I am SO looking forward to the next homecoming because it will be as good as or better than this year’s homecoming dance.”

2 November 2, 2012

News

the Talisman

Upcoming election spurs awareness The impending Presidential election spurs student debate and brings varied opinions to Sheldon Jackson Darland editor-in-chief The 2012 Presidential Elections are fast approaching, and Americans will have the opportunity to exercise one of their most important rights—a right that many take for granted. Though the vast majority of Sheldon High School students will not be eligible to vote this year, it is interesting to observe their ideas, or lack thereof, regarding the Presidential candidates and their political platforms and the sources that influence these viewpoints.

Senior Ray Mundo, senior Kathryn Bothman, and junior Ben Harter expressed their positions regarding current politics and some of the factors that could have influenced their thinking. It is important to remember that these three individuals represent something true about a small part of what may be a larger pattern in the way that Sheldon High School students think about national politics. When questioned about who he would vote for in the coming election, Mundo said that he would vote for Obama and Biden. Though not in an argumentative tone of voice, Mundo went on to defend his position: “Biden’s taking everybody in the nation into account while Romney is leaving out 47%.” Mundo said that his mother’s ideas have little effect on his political viewpoint.

Mundo believes that he needs to pay more attention to national politics, especially if he wants to take a stance.

Bothman also leaned toward the Democratic ticket,

though she said, “I don’t fully agree with either platform.”

Unlike Mundo, Bothman feels that her father’s political views affect her own, though interestingly enough her father voted for the Republican ticket: “My dad is definitely a capitalist, and it rubs off on me.” Bothman was asked a series of questions pertaining to specific pieces of each political platform, and although she had some opinions, like when she said, “I feel like Obama’s [education plan] makes more sense,” she admitted that she had little information to support her ideas. However, Bothman stands out in that she takes a different side than her parent.

Harter took a definite political stance during his interview. He said, “I would vote for Obama because I believe that he is more forward thinking.” Harter dove right into the education issue. He continued, “Obama is for public schools, unlike Mitt. From what I’ve heard, Romney is pushing for private education while Obama supports public education that is affordable for the masses.

I think that public education broadens the perspective of students—it’s important.” Harter has his own ideas,

but he went on to explain that most of his information comes from his parents. “Like always, my viewpoints largely come from what I learn from my parents. I’m not very aware sometimes, so I rely on my parents.”

Though all three of the Sheldon students interviewed had opinions regarding the coming election, each of their viewpoints was limited in that none of them had taken their own time to explore the candidates. Mundo did not rely on any source in particular to inform him about current national politics, while Bothman and Harter said that their parents’ ideas heavily influenced their own thinking. Again, the point of this article is not to pick on a few Sheldon High School students, nor is the point to make an assumption about all Sheldon High School students. The point is to begin to illuminate part of a larger truth regarding student awareness about national issues. All high school students have the opportunity to use their voices, however that may be: voting, writing in their school newspaper, or sharing information about the presidential candidates with their peers.

Micah Tamasaka illustration

Naviance stirs up mixed feelings among seniors Naviance is stirring up controversy as to why it is necessary and required Holly Ford backpage editor This year, Sheldon administrators have made it a requirement for seniors to participate in using Naviance.

In the past, Naviance had been strongly encouraged but not required for seniors to use. Naviance is a web-

based program that assists students in their college search. Although it seems helpful, not all students are thrilled that it is now a requirement and that they are forced to use it if they need letters of recommendation.

When junior Jake Albertini was asked if he’d heard of Naviance, he replied, “Yes, I have; through Mr. Voss. I think it is helpful for looking for colleges you’re interested in.” This goes to show that some people, like Albertini, would benefit from Naviance because they would use it out of interest instead of requirement. When used like this, Naviance can have a great impact on college-bound students. Some students however don’t see Naviance in this way. When asked if he would use Naviance even if he didn’t have to, senior Joseph Ambros said, “No, because

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you can directly get the information anyway.” Ambros also later added that, “it can be bipassed.” The two opinions of Albertini and Ambros show that Naviance has one of two different effects on people: either they like it or they don’t.

Although some seniors find the program helpful, the majority of seniors seem to not like Naviance when asked about it. Senior Keionna White doesn’t like having to use Naviance as well. White stated, “I do not think it is very useful and it should not be a requirement.”

Most seniors view Naviance as just another thing they have to be involved in before they graduate. Maybe in years to come, more students will begin to appreciate Naviance for the assistance it provides in the search for colleges that fit the students’ academic standards.

Sheldon chess entices new followers and competitors Chess has become a bigger deal than ever at Sheldon this year

Cesar Landrum staff writer

The ninth annual chess tournament has begun. Many students, freshmen to seniors of all different experience levels participate every year in the chess tournament. As easy as the game is to play it takes years of practice to become the ultimate strategists to checkmate their opponents. Campus Supervisor Daren Henry said that he started the tournament as an idea to help smokers quit smoking in a program called Smokers Sensation. Students also enjoyed playing chess and when it didn’t help smokers quit it became the Sheldon Chess Tournament.

As many students know Henry is tasked with patrolling the halls and the surrounding campus area along with making sure the Sheldon’s

environment is safe and secure. Because he has a very busy scheduled it takes up a lot of his time alongside his regular job to organize and coordinate the chess tournament. The chess tournament has been somewhat tweaked since last year. There are sixty-four starting players, each player is required to accept one challenger, and challengers may only challenge on person after the thirty-first of October the board is set.

“Chess teaches people of all ages how to concentrate, strategize, think before you act, be patient, and observe you’re playing field.”

Henry stated. Henry later added, “I like how chess requires skill and no luck at all.”

Many people would argue that chess is not a sport because it requires no physical effort but the International Olympic Committee along with many other organizations agree and recognize Chess as a sport.

Junior Brody McNair said “Chess is a great way to socialize.” McNair later stated, “Online chess is an even better way to socialize, because you get to play against people from all over.

The Chess Tournament takes the whole year to finish. Students can see who is playing who and who won the previous year’s tournament in the main hall. If you would like to see the matches being played you are welcome to pop in the cafeteria where they are held.

Entertainment

the Talisman

November 2, 2012

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The new bone chilling season of The Walking Dead The new season of The Walking Dead has ‘thrilling’ written all over it Jarred Rogers staff writer While many great shows are returning this season, many fans in particular have been awaiting the new season of the television hit The Walking Dead. Originally a comic series by Robert Kirkman, The Walking Dead has since gained much popularity as a show. The series has received critical praise for combining elements of shock and terror as well as deep psychological undertones.

Last season, however, left many fans wondering what lies in store for the future of The Walking Dead.

One of the chief elements of The Walking Dead is character interaction. Even with swarms of zombies attacking the survivors at every turn, some of the most interesting material comes from watching each character reach his or her own breaking point. From day one, tension began to build up in the group, until it reached an all-time high last season. Instead of killing zombies, the survivors turned on each other. The lead character, Rick, has gone through a major character change since then. Once caring and idealistic, in the newer seasons he is seen to be colder and more callous toward the other survivors, including his wife. Junior Daniel Kemp said, “Lots of people forget the show isn’t just about zombies, but the survivors too,” While the horror aspect of the show is important, the psychological parts are equally important and entertaining.

The Walking Dead series was also popular enough to spawn several videogames. The first is simply known as The Walking Dead Game, and follows a new cast of characters across their adventures, with emphasis on decision making

and character development. There is also another game in development called Survival Instinct, which is a prequel that follows the character Daryl in an attempt to reach Atlanta.

“I think it’ll be interesting to see such a popular character in a new environment,” said junior Apollo Kenney. This game will once again cast the spotlight on moral decisions, such as what to do with other survivors you meet.

Interestingly enough, some of the most popular aspects of The Walking Dead show weren’t even present in the books. For example, Daryl, easily one of the most popular characters, was created specifically for the show. Shane also plays a much larger part in the show, making only a brief appearance in the comics. While some fans don’t approve of some of the changes, others think it is a good way to keep the show unique instead of merely a carbon copy of the comics.

Comic, game, or television show, The Walking Dead has earned itself a prominent place in the zombie genre. Regardless of where the series goes next, fans will happily await future installments.

Gangnam Style: an international phenomenon Gangnam Style, is the most viewed video on Youtube, and in the Top Ten on iTunes

Sammie Tracewell staff writer

“Oppa Gangnam Style,” are three words that have hit the top ten charts on iTunes recently. In the past few weeks, “Gangnam Style” has become a phenomenon among teenagers and adults everywhere. This song has become a favorite for many on an international level, even though most only know a few words. This South Korean song, sung by Psy, has been recognized by the Guinness Book of World Records as the most “liked” video in YouTube history. If you haven’t had the chance to hear this world renowned song, you best be off to get your Gangnam Style on!

Many people have an attraction to “Gangnam Style,” yet some feel the opposite. Sophomore Lauren Kitzel stated, “I can’t understand it, so it drives me crazy.” As the most “liked” video on YouTube, most people would agree with Kitzel’s opinion that, “(I think) it will stay popular for a while.” Because

of this song’s popularity, maybe more Korean songs will start to appear on the U.S. charts. Korean pop culture may become a more popular trend in America, all because of “Gangnam Style.”

The whole vibe of the popularity of the song is important. If Psy were to tour in Eugene, sophomore Catrina Steckler noted that she would go; not for the song, but for Psy’s personality. “He would be fun to see,” she said.

Steckler also added, “I used to like the song, but don’t anymore.”

She also mentioned that she thought that the tone of the song, rather than the lyrics, attracts listeners more.

That being said, most could agree because it’s sung in Korean.

When asked which is more preferable about “Gangnam Style,” the song itself or the dance move representing a horse trot, senior Bryce Jorgensen said that he likes it for the dance move. Being that the song is in Korean, most people

Youtube vs. TV: is one better?

The most popular online video website against the most common household object Savannah Jones staff writer Over the years, T.V. has changed. It has been advancing from cartoons like Adventure Time, to thrillers like The Walking Dead. Although the T.V. industry is growing, so is the internet. Which is more popular: Youtube or television?

Junior Ian Adair said, “I prefer to watch Youtube because it’s more like real teens. A lot of people have blogs which are things people do from day to day. T.V. shows aren’t usually realistic.” Adair later added, “I don’t think it’s ‘Youtube is getting bigger than T.V.’ I think it’s just everybody has Netflix so if anybody wants to watch shows they usually go there.”

Youtube is world wide, but not every T.V. show is. When asked why Youtube has became so popular, junior Rebekah Galick answered, “I think everybody loves Funniest Home Videos and most videos on Youtube are meant to be funny and entertain. And you can’t script something real and funny like they do on t.v.; it just looks fake.” Galick later added, “I have a Youtube account but I don’t think I could ever upload videos and embarrass myself like that.”

Some people don’t even watch Youtube, though. Junior Chris Dunphy said, “I don’t really watch Youtube. It’s boring and I think a lot of the kids on there are annoying and just try being funny. The only good thing aboutYoutube is that it varies between everything. So whatever you like, they have.”

Youtube may not be bigger than T.V. Dunphy later added, “Then again, T.V. varies between anything. You can watch anything. The thing that sucks about T.V. is that you can’t decide what you want to watch, when you want to watch it. Unless you have On Demand or Netflix or some other cable box that allows you to watch reruns.” Some people prefer Youtube, and some people prefer T.V. One is not exactly bigger than the other but they are both popular, although it seems many viewers prefer Youtube.

residing in the U.S. don’t know the translated meaning of it, Jorgensen being one of them. The song leans towards a love-based tone, and more specifically, about a guy describing his and a girl’s personalities. Jorgensen also noted that he believes ‘“Hall of Fame” by The Script’ should be above “Gangnam Style” on iTunes top ten.

All in all, “Gangnam Style,” a song known world-wide, is a favorite among most, but not all. Some don’t especially enjoy it since it’s not in English, which makes it impossible to understand the lyrics for many. Others find it annoying and rather over-rated, and find the singer more entertaining. The song itself is quite popular, along with the dance move, which resembles a horse trot, which some like.

As the most “liked” video in YouTube history, it’s easy to say that the song’s popularity will be here to stay for a while, even through the occasional dislike.

Senior Sam Seno demonstrates the Gangnam Style dance Jackson Darland photo

The Hobbit is sure to please The newest entry in the Lord of the Rings series holds high expectations among fans Carly Gough staff writer J.R.R. Tolkien is well-known for his extraordinary literature, and especially for his most famous works, The Lord of the Rings series and The Hobbit. They paved the path for fantasy writing as it is known today. The Lord of the Rings trilogy reached unprecedented success when it was adapted into movies, earning 17 Academy Awards and a spot as the ninth highest-grossing film series ever.

This leaves very large footprints for The Hobbit to fill, but there is sure to be some consistency among the films with Peter Jackson returning as the director.

It can’t be denied that Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit are a huge part of people’s lives. Sophomore Hannah Salbador said, “I grew up watching Lord of the Rings and reading the books. I love them.” Senior Claire Thompson said, “I’ve been a fan of Lord of the Rings for a really long time. The whole series is just a lot of fun to get immersed in.” The fact that Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit are so important in our lives make it that much more exciting to see the release of yet another movie.

One exciting aspect of The Hobbit movies is the fact that many of the actors from The Lord of the Rings series will be returning to bring their characters back to life.

Senior Hannah Rodrigues said, “I’m really excited that they’re bringing back a lot of the same actors. If they didn’t, honestly I don’t think the movies would be as good.”

An unexpected turn of events came when producers announced that The Hobbit would be split into not just two, but three full-length feature films to be released respectively in 2012, 2013, and 2014. Upon hearing the news, senior Sophia Roberts said, “It’ll be hard to wait for all three, but I’m glad that there will be more to look forward to.” Due to the long wait in anticipation The Hobbit has brought since early 2012, fans everywhere are ecstatic about the films. With so much talent working on The Hobbit, it’s sure to please.

Sophie Morosky staff writer

Carley Evens is the newest addition to the Sheldon High School staff and is already making a good impression on students and staff

This year, Sheldon High School has a lot of new staff members, including a new counselor named Carley Evens. Ms. Evens will be another person to talk to if you need help. She can also help you if you have any questions about your future career, college possibilities, your schedule, and can even give you advice about issues in your personal life. Having another counselor here at Sheldon will also give the other counselors a little more time for their work. This will definitely help to improve Sheldon this year.

Freshman Dillon French said he likes a counselor to be, “Someone that is easy to talk to.” Ms. Evens will be a great counselor in this way because students should be comfortable talking to her about anything they need to talk about. Students shouldn’t worry about being judged in any way

by Ms. Evens. She is here to help you in any way necessary. If you need

any help with anything you can come to one of Sheldon’s counselors.

Junior Wyatt Spears said “I’ve heard a lot of great things about her and she sounds nice,” which is one of the things he likes to have in a counselor. Spears not only looks for a counselor to be nice, he also likes a counselor to be encouraging. Ms. Evens seems to be nice, encouraging, and easy to talk to and Sheldon will definitely benefit by having her.

Ms. Evens said she is “super excited” to be a part of the Sheldon staff. She has been a counselor at other schools and she said Sheldon is “a lot bigger, but I still see the same number of students.” Ms. Evens also says the schedule here at Sheldon is different than the schedule at her previous school. This year she hopes to be “very accessible, helpful, and approachable. Ms. Evens also hopes to get to know her students, who she said “seem very smart.”

She also says she likes the staff and that they are “very upbeat and friendly.”

Sheldon Cycling Club rolls into 2012

F e a t u r e s

Kyle Radley features editor

Sheldon’s Cycling Club is getting ready for another year of sharing their love for biking throughout Sheldon and the Eugene Springfield area

At Sheldon, many clubs have meetings during lunch for about thirty-five minutes and sometimes do fun activities after school. However, there are a few clubs that are extra dedicated to what their activities are about. The Cycling Club is one of the few clubs that live by the principles on which it was founded. The members of the club ride bikes, build bikes, talk about bikes, and ultimately love biking. Cycling isn’t just a club, it’s a lifestyle.

Cycling takes someone who wants to ride and talk about bikes. “The club is all about bikes,” said senior Garret Johnson, a Cycling Club member. “We go to [senior] Thomas [Power’s] house on Sundays and work on our bikes. We have tons of parts and the know-how to put them together and to use them to their potential.” To cycle well, one must have a good and working bike. The Sunday repair day is something that the club holds very dear to them. Having something like this is very integral to the club’s athletes as well as a bonding experience for the members.

Cycling is not only something you can do to have fun, it’s also something you can do to train for other sports as well. Sophomore Brysen MacPhetridge is a track and field and cross-country athlete who takes his training very seriously. “I want to do well as an athlete and to do that, I need to do everything in my power to ensure that I improve. Swimming and cycling are the two best ways to train other than running,” said MacPhetridge. “I may not like it, but hey, you do what you got to do.” Cycling is a great way to improve your endurance for other sports if you’re injured and want to do something for training.

For some people, however, cycling truly is a lifestyle. Thomas Powers, a great cyclist here at Sheldon, bikes everywhere he goes. Powers is one of the co-founder for the club and is “very excited for the year. We’re going to try a number of different things with the club this year, one being the hosting of a cycling race as a fundraiser for new parts for our bikes.” Last year, the club was founded towards the end of the year and, because of this, few people came to the meetings. However, now the club will be here at the start of the year. Powers continued, “We’ll still be doing the Sunday clinic and have regular meetings and such, but I want to work for something more in-depth with the club, like entering a team into a race of something. T-shirts would be sweet, too.”

The club is not yet renewed, so for now the club has no set time or day at lunch. There will be flyers with more information hanging up on the walls around the club when more details are available. Also, the advisor for the Cycling Club is Mr. Cabrera, whom you can also get information from. So, if you like to cycle, come visit cycling club!

a stop motion video of the change rising. Do your part and come check out Power of Today club next Monday. Donate, and spread the word!

Connor Dryden staff writer Around the world children and their families are in great need. The good news is that Sheldon students can do their part to help. The student-started club Power of Today has replaced the charity known as Project Our Turn. Power of Today started this year here at Sheldon, but South Eugene High School has taken up the club recently as well. The leaders are Juniors Solan Megerssa and Annie Beckstrand and they meet every Monday at lunch in B-6 across from the library.

Power of Today (POT club) changes their location of support from year to year, but this year’s goal is to raise 2,600 dollars to build a well in Africa. Don’t worry about the money not getting to where you want it to, Beckstrand assured, “90 percent of money raised goes toward building the well and ten percent goes toward sending other smaller supplies.” Junior Karl Cahdures added, “We send our money through World Vision.” Power of Today has already raised around $300 to send to World Vision, a larger organization that will build the well. “People can spread the word by telling their friends,” added Megerssa.

Power of Today hosts several fundraisers and events throughout the school year. When holiday season comes, they are in charge of the candy grams (little notes delivered with a candy cane). They also hold events to raise money outside of school. These events include bake sales and a possible benefit concert downtown. At the moment, Power of Today club has a cylinder that during every club meeting, members add any spare change that they have and when it fills up all the way they will have reached their goal of 2,600 dollars! They set up a camera so that as it fills up they can make

Seniors Evan Lytle and Tim Lawrence are making their own music, and on their way to making it big Kara Cheung staff writer

Sam Seno photo

Senior Kyle Radley and co-founder of the Sheldon bike club poses with his bike.

Eugene’s most popular Halloween attraction was back again for another season of fun and scares

With seasons changing, we once again find ourselves in November; the time when leaves fall and the fog rolls in, with scarlets and crimsons now seen on the fall leaves of November, this will be a time to remember. Halloween is upon us again, and with the things that bump in the night at our door steps, the corn maze rears its head at our feet. When we were younger it was a time to scream, run around, and have fun, but with the changing of seasons so must we also change with the falling leaves. Now with more responsibilities, hopes, and new dreams, Halloween is a time to get together and have a good time with friends. Behind the warlocks, witches, and ghouls lies a good laugh with a few screams. Children run, teens have fun, and the corn, the corn that sets on the ground of the open maze has a good time waiting for you.

When the corn maze was still in its young years, and it was more of a family thing to do, junior Gaven Deer-

Sheldon’s Power of Today club is looking to make a difference locally and world wide

Micah Tamasaka illustration

Just Some Kids following their dream

Lone Pine Farm’s famous corn maze Micah Tamasaka graphics editor

Power of Today working for change

ing said, “When I went to the maze when I was younger, my grandmother was going to sacrifice me to a guy that was dressed like Jason and he had a chainsaw.”

He later added, “It was a good memory because I look back on it and can still laugh about it.” Even though we might change with time we can still look back on our childhood and laugh sometimes about what we did.

The time when we pull each month off of the calendar until a year has gone by, is an ever flowing thing. This past year senior Matt Lyons went to the maze and said, “Last year and the year before that the maze has been constantly changing with having new obstacles and a new layout.”

He later added, “I go back for the great sense of adrenaline that pumps through my very being.” Things change but the sense will always be the same, excitement, blood pumping, and a feeling that you might only find at the corn - freedom.

What does the wind tell you? What is its message that’s being breathed down the back of your neck? Is it a chill that crawls up your back and tells your ears that someone

is following you? Well, if you believe it to be, then your ears are right. Senior Jason Suenaga said, “I will go back to the maze for the constant thrill and excitement that you get when going through it.” Before the time to enjoy the excitement begins you must first pay the toll, with this toll and with how long its been around, it has inflated since it first opening from ten dollars and fifty cents to a total of fifteen dollars. Suenaga said, “With the inflammation I feel like I’m being robbed. This is robbery!” The maze has been around for a while now and is a local attraction that keeps some people coming back for more each year to try and regain the feeling of their first time in the maze.

mates. Senior Wesley LaVassaur, began listening to their music in June, around the end of the school year.

LaVassaur said that, “their music makes me appreciate the rap genre more”, LaVassaur then added, “I like how it’s not explicit and it has a sense of originality.” When the senior was asked what his thoughts were regarding them starting a career young he stated three words, “Risky, confident, and commendable.” As a dedicated fan, LaVassaur also mentioned that he’d want to listen to more of Lawrence’s rap.

The dedication and ambition from these two artists is truly inspirational. Lytle and Lawrence have gone against the wide-spread belief that people have to wait until after they’ve completed high school in order to pursue their careers.

From their story, the younger generations of the world can all learn that we have the capability of reaching our goals if we believe in ourselves.

TimeLess and DeLyte’s music can be heard at http://soundcloud.com/justsomekidsmusic Evan Lytle and Tim Lawrence photo or find them on Facebook by Just Some Kids consists of seniors (left) Evan Lytle [DeLyte] searching “Just Some Kids.” and Tim Lawrence [TimeLess].

As young children, we all have had dreams.

As we mature, though, these dreams begin to seem silly or impossible to achieve as our imagination is left in the past along with our Barbies and toy trucks. In contrast to the norm of lost goals and hopes, among the brilliant people attending Henry D. Sheldon High School, two students have decided to pursue their ambitions to turn their dreams into a reality. Tim Lawrence (TimeLess) and Evan Lytle (DeLyte) have formed their group Just Some Kids, which is currently considering a name change, in hopes of becoming widely known hip hop artists.

Lawrence began producing his music in January 2011. He wanted to create music that consisted of “good vibes” and “honesty.” Not only did he want to make his beats sound good, he wanted to add depth to his creations by incorporating the influences of his own personal life. Lawrence had always been surrounded by music as a child. His uncle, father, and grandfather all enjoyed playing country and jazz on their guitars.

At six years of age, Lawrence shuffled through his mom’s CD’s until he ran into Kanye West’s first album “College Dropout.” The senior mentioned, “Kanye’s album gave me inspiration because it created a new type of hip-hop.” He listened to this CD again nine years later and decided to create a more modern type of music apart from his family’s musical background.

Lytle was also raised in a musical atmosphere.

He recalls listening to his brother’s band as a child, and admiring the music they created. Lytle listened to a wide variety of music, but found his passion in the hip-hop genre. The artist said, “I like to express my feelings and emotions through my music. He later stated, “Music is a joyous thing, and I want to send a positive message through my work.”Along with this inspiration, his pride in making his own songs and enjoyment he feels when he completes a song keeps him thriving in making music.

One of the largest portions of their fan base includes their fellow supportive Sheldon High School class-

F e a t u r e s

Sheldon welcomes new counselor to staff

6

November 2, 2012

Opinions

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The holiday of scaring the heck out of others All Hallow”s Eve: when it is acceptable to be scared of what lurks in the dark Vanessa Hendricks news editor Today, when people think of Halloween, candy, costumes and parties immediately come to mind. October is taken over with a haze of candy hoarding, costume buying, and party planning. Some people spend hundreds on candy and costumes alone while others turn off the lights and try to escape the bedlam of Halloween.

Halloween was, originally, less chaotic and more about a feast to honor the dead for Pagans who called the holiday All Hallow’s Eve. The origin of All Hallow’s Eve dates even further back to the celtic tradition of Samhain, which was to honor the dead.

Our modern-day Halloween is completely detached from the numerous old-world traditions. We still recognize the idea that Halloween is a day to pay homage to the dead and gorge ourselves on delicacies, and by delicacies I mean candy.

While traditions and activities related to Halloween differ from family to family, whether it is trick-ortreating or not, most people choose to participate. Senior Jordan Marshall said, “Halloween means I get to work at a haunted house and scare the crap out of people.”

Marshall went on to explain “My family doesn’t have any traditions so I do the haunted house every year.”

Many people take Halloween as just another holiday to go out and let loose, but some don’t enjoy it as much.

There are many people who look at Halloween as just another tool to give businesses a boost, especially candy and costume companies. The skeptics are sometimes the ones who turn off all the lights to ward off trick or treaters and to survive the evening of Halloween.

Senior Jake Roehl said of the commercial turn that holidays have taken, “I think as far as holidays it’s one of the better ones at doing its job…there’s a definite point to it and it isn’t caught up in sales of candy and sales of costumes.”

I believe that Roehl is right and that Easter and Christmas definitely are the top commercial holidays, but Halloween is still in the top three for commercial focus.

There is a whole other side to Halloween, though.

For me it is the one holiday where you can go out, get the most outrageous sugar high and dress as someone you wish you could be. Personally, I am dressing as Harlequin (the Joker’s assistant) but who wouldn’t want to get away with being a villain for a day? Even though Halloween has turned into a holiday to welcome masked vigilantes, villains, and demons alike, rather than the remembrance of those we have lost, Halloween can be a way to have fun and

connect with the people around you. My family used to have loads of fall traditions, from pumpkin carving to costume shopping to bringing our Thanksgiving decorations down from the attic to clear the way for our Christmas decorations.

While not everyone enjoys Halloween traditions, almost everyone welcomes Halloween as the turning point from the turning of the weather to the holiday season. Scheduling/attendance secretary Michelle

Micah Tamasaka illustration

Phillipo said, “[Halloween] gives me something good to look forward to when the weather turns.”

My official opinion is that whether you enjoy the actual Halloween or not, you can’t avoid the fact that it is the beginning of the holiday season and generally a fun-filled festival not solely based on veiled commercial endeavors.

First world debates: Twitter vs Instagram Hipster coffee pictures or using a bird themed site to share your thoughts?

Sam Fox staff writer Twitter and Instagram are very often used and extremely similar social websites. Instagram is used for photo sharing and editing, socializing and entertainment.

Twitter is used for updating statuses, pictures and socializing. Both sites are free, have millions of users, and are used all over the world. Freshman Syndey Matthews said what she likes most about Twitter is that “you can follow celebrities and kind of know what is popular at the moment.” Another freshman, Taylor Revell, said that her favorite thing about Instagram is “seeing all of the different pictures that people take.” Yet another freshman, Zach Pressly, said that what he likes most about Instagram is that “you can share pictures with people.” A fourth freshman, Sabrina Melton, said that her favorite thing about Twitter is that “you can post…photos and talk to people.”

Yet, for every good thing, there is something bad.

Matthews later admitted that she doesn’t “like how scattered and unorganized” Twitter is and Revell admitted that she doesn’t like that “people post really weird pictures sometimes” on Instagram. Pressly stated that he doesn’t like the “people who stalk you” and Melton said that she doesn’t like “the limit of writing and when someone retweets a bunch of Tweets and it clogs your timeline.” But with and without the good and bad, Matthews and Revell said that their friends prefer

Instagram overall and Pressly and Melton said that their friends prefer Twitter. Out of all four students, none of them has an account on either Twitter or Instagram that they don’t use.

When Matthews was asked how long she’s had her Twitter she replied “for about a week” though she goes on it “at least twice a day.” On the other hand, Revell has had her Instagram for “a long time” and goes on it “everyday.” Melton has had her Twitter for “roughly a year and a half” and goes on it “every couple of days” while Pressly has had his Instagram account for “like three weeks” and goes on it “once every couple days.”

Revell said that she likes to go on Instagram “to look at stuff” and Matthews goes on Twitter to “know what is popular at the moment.” Pressly said that he uses his Instagram for “connecting with other people” and Melton said that she uses her Twitter for “interacting with people and posting photos.”

A conclusion can be reached that both websites have their merits. Depending on whom you ask, both Twitter and Instagram are great, fun and entertaining. Both websites have a nearly equal fan base and both websites

A message from the Talisman The Talisman is run by students for students. The views expressed in the Talisman are not necessarily those of the Talisman staff, those of Sheldon High School, or those of the Sheldon community. If you have any letters to the editor, please e-mail the Talisman at shstalisman@gmail.com, or drop a letter in our box located in the office. We kindly reserve the right to edit all stories we print.

are great to use. It is up to each insividual to make their decision on which website they prefer but that individual should remember that you can have both.

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Staff Advisor

Greg Cantwell

Is basketball an important part of the childhood experience?

What significance does basketball have for the youth of America?

Noah Savage staff writer Did you play basketball as a kid? Well a lot of people have played basketball at some point in their lifes, as a child or as a adult. Basketball is loved and played across the world. Many kids play basketball which is good.

Basketball helps kids all over the world learn basic life skills and discipline. Many people suggest basketball should be an essential part of a child’s life. Freshmen Sammi Schoppe said she prefers to watch basketball

because it’s more entertaining and that her favorite team is the Heat because they are really good. Schoppe said she played basketball for six years. Schoppe said her dad played basketball too. She said she played the post position because she was tall. Schoppe said basketball was a pretty big part of her childhood. She said “Basketball should be a part of a child’s life because it keeps kids active.”

Freshmen Chase Davis said he loves basketball because it is a great team sport Davis said his favorite team is the Clippers. Davis said he prefers playing basketball over watching it because it is hard for him to stay still. Davis said he has been playing basketball for three years and said he plays the shooting guard position because he likes shooting jump shots. Davis said basketball has been a big part of his childhood because he has been watching

it since he was a little kid. Davis supports the idea that basketball is an essential part of every child’s life because it makes kids smarter with social skills; he also said basketball let him hang out with friends.

Freshmen Austin Turvey said he loves the sport of basketball because it is fun to play, he said he prefers playing over watching basketball because it makes him proud of himself. Turvey said his favorite basketball team is Oklahoma City Thunder. Turvey says his uncle used to play basketball; he also stated that he plays the shooting guard position and point guard when he is needed. Turvey said he has been playing for 6 years. Turvey also supports the idea that basketball should be a part of every child’s life because it helps with every essential skill as a child.

Turvey stated “All sports should be a part of a child’s life.”

Sports

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November 2, 2012

7

Robert Johnson rolls in as new Oregon cross-country coach

Ducks basketball looks to have a successful building season

New coach Robert Johnson is to take over the most prestigious cross-country program in the nation

Young Ducks team looks to improve upon the solid foundation of last year Tim Lawrence staff writer

Sam Seno features co-editor

It hasn’t been that long since the Ducks basketball franchise left Mac Court for a Ever since the early 1960’s Oregon’s running program has been recognized more comfortable and atmospheric Matt Knight Arena. This was a big change for them as one of the nation’s best. Oregon has produced 66 track and field national considering they have been playing at Mac Court since it opened in 1926, but this change champions, 362 All-Americans, 99 Olympians, and 25 world record holders on was good. Players and coaches are constantly joining and leaving the team so it has been their way to become know as the nations top distance running program. The University of Oregon running program has endured countless coaching changes, the scouts’ job to recruit great players for the time being. With summer sports over and and has yet to stumble, never failing to bring in another world class coach. fall sports in full swing, U of O basketball is just around the corner. The excitement is A few weeks ago the University of Oregon announced that the Oregon running roaring in Eugene as fans ready up for what most expect to be a great season for the Ducks. program’s next coaching change would happen this fall. Robert Johnson is the programs Last year was quite the improvement for them. With E.J. Singler leading the team, they next head coach, filling the role that Vin Lananna stepped down from. Lananna had a had managed to earn a 24-10 season record, which is about a 4 game improvement from huge impact on the Oregon running program, Senior Lane Davis said, “He the year before. There are some worries about whether they’ll do made the Oregon distance program a world-class program.” Vin better this year. Senior Hunter Dotson said, “I don’t think Lananna took over the Oregon running program when it they’ll do better this year. They lost a lot of good was at a surprising low, falling out of the top 25 for players so it could be a step back for them.” the first time decades. Senior Alex Johnston Oregon has a great history of scouting, said, “He (Vin Lananna) brought Oregon often recruiting players that make back to being an elite program.” Not a positive impact on the team. only did Lananna bring Oregon The veteran Duck players, as back to prominence, he was always, will play a major also was part of the group role this season. Dotson that got the Olympic trails, and the NCAA later stated, “I think championships to come Johnathan Loyd will to Eugene. Lananna be the X Factor this will now be solely season. His outside working on getting game is insane.” running events here Many people at Hayward. He has are feeling good already got the 2013 about this year, USA championships despite the loss of a in Eugene, and is couple of important now working on players.

Senior getting the next World Kevin Castaneda Championships to said, “I think the take place in Eugene.

Ducks will end up Robert Johnson might with 25 wins this season. not be as well known as Vin Lananna, but he is still very Even though they lost some highly respected within the running good players, training camp community. Johnson was named the has been going great for them so National Women’s Indoor Track and they have a shot at the tournament.”

Field coach of the year in both 2010 and 2011.

The atmosphere of regular season games Johnson has made a name for himself by leading is important to the team as well. Castaneda also the Oregon women’s indoor track and field programs to stated, “Even though I like Mac Court more because of three consecutive indoor track and field titles. Johnson recent the nostalgia, Duck games always feel intense.” The newly built Matt success and growing fame was a big factor in Lananna feeling comfortable Matt McCumsey photo Arena gave the Ducks a more professional feel to their games, but Mac Court handing him the keys to the program. Sophomore Tristan Carpenter said, will always go down in Eugene history as the original basketball court for Oregon.

“Robert Johnson is a tremendous, tremendous, women’s sprint and jumping coach, Oregon has quite the challenge this season, especially in the Pac-12. Last year the Ducks which will greatly improve the men’s cross country team.” Carpenter believes will be had fallen two places short in the conference behind California (who came in 2nd with a great coach for the shorter distance but believes the distance program might take a a 24-10 record) and 1st place Washington, who managed a 24-11 record. Those teams hit because of Johnsons sprinting background. What these people don’t know is that look to be shaping up as great teams this year. Many people have their faith in Oregon, the job of the head cross country, and track and field coach at a university is to run especially with Singler at the front. Senior Leeondra Nealon said, “Singler’s my favorite the program. Setting up meet scheduals, and hiring event coaches that work, and train player. He cut his hair so he is awesome.” No doubt E.J. is the most favored player this year. the runners in their respected event. Andy Powell is in charge of the men’s distance program, and his wife Mauricia Powell is incharge of the womens distance program.

With the season just starting, the Ducks seem like they’re in a good position to go far.

Leading one of the Nations best running programs is a very challenging task From the last few years of Oregon football and basketball, the Ducks do not disappoint. for Johnson, but with all of his knowledge, and amazing coaching staff, we Whether they are an elite team or a progressive team, the scouts are consistently top notch can all look forward to the continued success of the Oregon running program. with their recruiting. Expect to see a winning season for the Duck basketball team this year.

NBA is not flopping with its newly instated penalty NBA looks to control flopping with the newly-installed rule to prevent it AJ Smith sports editor The NBA has now created a system to penalize players who flop. Flopping, in the context of basketball, is the act of a player faking a foul by an opposing player to trick the referees into calling a foul. Players and fans alike are excited about this new change. Many believe this is the main change that basketball needs. Flopping has been an issue for many years across all levels of basketball, and this might be the start of something new. The new rule is that on the first flopping offense, the player will get a

warning; the second offense will result in a $5,000 fine; the third offense $10,000; and if it reaches more than six offenses, the player could receive suspensions.

One of the primary issues that the NBA has had over the years is flopping. The rule aims to remove flopping from the league and reprimands any player that continues this devious play. Senior Jim Cahill said, “The rule should help make games much more fair.” With so many games coming down to the final seconds, fouls can create point-scoring opportunities at the free-throw line.

Games can be thrown by flopping, and the penalty has been implemented to stop this unfair play.

There is a constant discussion on how to prevent flopping in the NBA. The NBA took these discussions and created a penalty system that prevents players from flopping. Some people, including senior Nathan Klump “i believe that this penalty system will prevent flopping,

yet I don’t think this is the way to prevent it.” Others believe that creating a technical foul in the game or more excessive fines and suspensions would be a better idea.

Other people believe that the penalty system is detrimental to the league and they don’t think that this particular punishment should be implemented. Senior Nick Ault said, “I believe that flopping should be dealt with, but the way they have implemented it is not the correct way.” Many players are in favor of this new rule in the hope that it lowers the amount of flopping that goes on in pivotal games.

Since the NBA season is coming up, many fans will be on the edge of their seats to see if the players actually care about the fines that the NBA has installed for flopping. With some people thinking the fines are not enough, and some who think flopping should not be penalized, it will be interesting to see how it all plays out.

Backpage Cirque du Soleil An entertaining circus act comes to Eugene for the third time

Justin Bieber concert

Did people enjoy the Justin Bieber concert?

Alicia Froehlich staff writer

Ben Ely entertainment editor

On October 8, 2012, music artist Justin Bieber came to Portland, Oregon, for a From high flying acrobats to dancing contortionists, Cirque du Soleil concert. Cody Simpson and Carley Rea Jepsen also preformed that night. The concert is a fast-paced, daring show that can please everyone. Cirque du Soleil’s was full of screaming fans and talented artists. A handful of Sheldon High School Quidam brought all of this action and more last month at the Matthew students attended this concert. Some people went for the music, while others went for Knight Arena. A Canadian performing company, Cirque du Soleil, meanthe joy of being with friends and seeing the artists in person. ing “circus of the sun,” is a circus act that mixes dancing with extreme Freshman Jada Glass likes Justin Bieber’s music, especially the song “Catching acrobatics. Either under their giant Big Top circus tent, to an arena or Feelings”. She was not able to go to Bieber’s concert, however, even though she theater, Cirque du Soleil will keep you on the edge of your seat every mowished she could have. Glass said, “I wanted to but I didn’t know about it until it ment of the show. basically happened.” Not everyone who wanted to go was able to but many students Cirque du Soleil was founded in 1984 in Baie-Saint-Paul, Quebec, did attend, such as Glass’s friends Alexis Eads, Kenah McCartney, and Katie Warren.

Canada, by two former street performers. Since then, Cirque du Soleil Senior Sierra Broten, said she loved the concert and it was amazing. She, like has gone from a small touring circus act to an international phenomenon. others, didn’t go to school the next day. Broten said, “We stayed in a hotel. It was Sophomore T.J. Strong said, “When I first went to a show, it blew my a surprise that we didn’t have to go to school.” When Broten was asked if her seats mind.” Although they are popular today, will they be in the future? Strong were close, and if it still would have been a good choice to go Broten responded, “We thinks they will be. “Their performances are invigorating to watch, which were pretty darn high up in the stands but I really didn’t care; I was so grateful to be is appealing.” Senior Sora Boyd said, “[Cirque du Soleil] is like the there.” Broten later stated that her favorite song was probably “Catching Feelings”, visualization of modern culture today; people want it here, now.” Cirque unlike junior Kendyl Fletcher, who said her favorite song that Justin Bieber played du Soleil has 20 shows touring around the world, including one dedicated was “Fall”. to Michael Jackson, and another to The Beatles. When asked how to Another student who went was freshman Sydney Coleman. Coleman said, “I loved describe Cirque du Soleil in three words, Sophomore Rachel Brungardt it because Justin Bieber is hot.” Her favorite part was when he sang “Love Me Like said, “Fast-paced, exciting, and musical.” Each You Do”. Like others, she didn’t go to school the is just as amazing as the next.

Senior Jackson Darland (left) and a friend go trick-or-treating in 2005 next day so she could sleep in. Coleman stated, Three of Cirque du Soleil’s shows have “It was so exciting! It was my first Justin Bieber come to Eugene: Dralion, Michael Jackson: concert.”

The Immortal World Tour, and now Quidam; Some people didn’t like when Carley Rea a spectacular show that combined imaginative Jepsen sang, like Sierra Broten and Kendyl surrealism with adventure and humor. When a Fletcher. Others, like Sydney Coleman, did girl puts on a mysterious hat, the good and evil enjoy the extra singers. In the end, the concert of her imagination are released. Among many sounded like a great time. For some it was a of the different acts, there were jump roping, first, but for others it was not. Everyone who aerialists, jugglers, amazing acrobatics, music, went sounded like they had an awesome experiand humor; all of these traits make Cirque du ence and enjoyed the time they spent in Portland Soleil one of the best touring circus acts on the for the concert. globe.

History of onion rings

Origins of Halloween

Onion rings have an interesting history that not many people know about

Ever wonder where the Halloween holiday came from, and why we still celebrate it?

Quinn Daniel staff writer

Tanner Mitchell staff writer Jackson Darland photo

Halloween traditions are not shared everywhere in the world. Only a few countries celebrate Halloween such as the United States, Canada, Ireland, and United Kingdom. The traditions we see during Halloween have not been around as long as you think they might have been. Dressing up in costume of whoever you can imagine and knocking door to door, “trick or treating” has only been around since the 1920-50s. It’s all based upon Halloween’s origin in ancient Celtic festivals where on the first day of November they would celebrate the end of the harvest season and the beginning of the cold, dark months to come.

But the day before October 31st they also had a celebration where they would wear costumes and light massive bonfires to scare off the dark spirits that were believed to rise that night to damage crops.

Asking for and receiving treats came from All Souls Day; a day of celebration and parade in England for the relatives that have passed. The poor would run around during the festival and beg others for food. What they would receive is a “soul cake” which is a small pastry. Many people would give these out. The church encouraged it also and gave them out to those that would come to the church and pray.

These ancient traditions gave us the holiday that we have today. Some Halloween traditions declined in the late 1970s because of a tainted candy fright; even hospitals got involved and offered scans for the candy that was given to the children. The scare ended up being false and ever since then the holiday has been making a come back.

Junior Jor’din Stepan said, “Halloween gives a chance for people to express themselves and have fun.” Many believe the same thing and see Halloween as a time to have a good time and get a good scare. Halloween traditions of scary outfits, haunted houses, horrifying films and midnight corn mazes make it fun for all ages. Halloween is a fun pastime that hopefully will never die.

It’s sometimes fun to wonder where common items have come from. Have you ever wondered when and where onion rings came from?

The exact origins are not known, but in 1910 a Middletown, New York, newspaper may have contained a recipe in an advertisement. This may be the earliest known existence of an onion ring recipe.

Sophomore Tim Wellette said, “I’ve never wondered where onion rings come from.” Onion rings are a very common thing in the world, so it is common to not wonder where they came from. There are two or more possible origins of onion rings. They may actually have been invented elsewhere in the world. Another was in Texas, in the 1920’s, where a snack stand was selling a food nobody had heard of called onion rings. A&W later added onion rings to their menu in the 1960’s.

Onion rings are not liked by everybody. However, junior Yadie Dunmore said, “I love onion rings. I like the taste, and the texture.”

Onion rings are an acquired taste. In contrast, junior Tori Cartwright said, “I don’t like the taste.”

To wrap things up, onion rings are very common in the U.S., the U.K., and other parts of the world. Different cultures serve onion rings differently. Here in the U.S., they are most commonly served fried. Also, there are multiple origins for this food item. The Texas restaurant chain Pig Stand took credit for inventing onion rings. There also was a 1910 Middletown, New York newspaper that possibly contained a recipe. Whatever the origin, onion rings have become as American as apple pie.