Vote for me: Class elections
Woot: End of the year reflections
Congrats: Graduation tomorrow
page 2
page 3
t h e Ta l i s m a n backpage
your student newspaper: senior issue
shstalisman@gmail.com myspace.com/shstalisman 2455 willakenzie Road, Eugene, Oregon 97401 volume 43 Issue 8 June 11, 2008 Sheldon High School
Drizzle put a damper on Springfest activities
Fortunately, by the last lunch period of the three-day extravaganza, the sky had cleared up, and students were able to enjoy playing four-square, doodling with sidewalk chalk, by Gracie Beaver sipping relatively pricey Jamba Juice smoothies, and “totally editor-in-chief pwning” each other in Guitar Hero. Japanese club sold “bubble tea,” a popular Asian beverage made from tea (obviously) and Grey clouds loomed over Sheldon High School’s milk, combined with some sort of fruity flavoring, and tapioca pearls. Face painting was also available to students, as well as staff members such as Herb Hahn, who proudly displayed painted-on cat whiskers. Along with other students, senior Lisette Peterson manned the henna tattoo table, which was a new addition to the festivities. Peterson participated on the first grey day. “I was a little down because it was raining,” she said; “We didn’t think anyone would show up because of the rain, but when they did, everyone was happy about it.” The henna table was a hit; Peterson explained there was “a long line, a lot of people, and a lot of henna.” Because the table was such a success, it ran for all three days. Teachers and students alike took advantage of the hourlong lunch they received from May 28 through May 30, even with the drizzly weather. English teacher Jeremy Washburn was a huge fan of the Guitar Hero tournament; he noted, “Seniors and freshmen alike” enjoyed the game. Washburn did, however, lament the loss of a certain Springfest staple. “Bring back the inflatable obstacle course!” he said. English teacher Barbara Faunce also missed a former Springfest activity. “I always liked the dunk tank,” she said. Faunce noticed that while some students immersed themselves in the festivities, most had alternative plans. “It seemed like more students were going away from campus [as opposed to] staying,” she said. Compared to previous years, Faunce said, “It didn’t have the pizzazz, and I wondered why.” Both Faunce and Washburn mentioned the weather as a major factor in determining the level of student involvment. Washburn advocates a “flex schedule” to accommodate classic Oregon Ashley Admire photo changes in precipitation. But surely, whether students choose to go four-square crazy, or just drive off to Taco Bell, Springfest The old elementary school game of four-square made a comeback in Sheldon’s courtyard during the single sunny day of Springfest. The Spiderman rubber ball made the game even more intense. is a nice break from the usual forty-minute lunch period.
Some found celebration disappointing
courtyard; the sun had fled away to tend to more important matters. Raindrops splashed against the faux Blarney Stone, soaking the grass and forming puddles on the cement. This gloomy weather provided a somewhat ironic backdrop to the first day of Sheldon’s annual Springfest.
Kanye West fundrasier a success for freshmen girls
After a few months of selling candy and soliciting donations, the Kanye West Girls reached their concert goal by Naima Lobby staff writer
Kanye West played in Portland on June 3 and there was a group of girls here at Sheldon who decided that they would do whatever they could do to get tickets. Three freshmen girls, Lauren Murphy, Kendyl Brown and Angela Vanderbelt had started their own personal fundraiser. Proceeds for this fundraiser went towards tickets to the Kanye West concert for the girls. “When people want something, they should do whatever they can do to get that thing, and I believe that these girls are doing just that,” said freshman Rex Putnam. The girls sold gum, candy, brownies, and other tasty treats to raise money to attend the concert. It had been a great way for them to earn the money
they need and supply yummy snacks for students. Murphy, Brown, and Vanderbelt attended the concert at the Rose Garden in Portland on June 3. The girls liked to sell their products at least once a week. They made around $30.00 a day. To get to the concert, they rented a car and Murphy’s mother drove them. They had been selling things since the beginning of April. “We love Kanye West. We were so excited when we heard he was coming to Oregon. We jumped right at the idea to raise money for this concert. We also love Lupe Fiasco who also performed at the concert,” said Brown. The “Glow in the Dark Tour” features artists such as Kanye West, Rhianna, N.E.R.D, and Lupe Fiasco. It began on April 16, 2008 in Seattle, Washington and will end on August 1, 2008 in Cincinnati, Ohio. This past one in Portland on June 3 was the 38th performance of the tour and there are 32 shows in North America with 2 legs in Europe. Jeff Toreson photo The tickets for this concert ranged from Freshmen Lauren Murphy, Kendyl Brown, and Angela around $40.00 to nearly $700.00 a piece. Vanderbelt model their colorful Kanye West concert tees.
Dr. Bob is back in action after extended paternity leave Principal returned to job in mid May by Ashley Ruderman staff writer After an extended leave of absence to prepare and welcome the birth of his fourth child, Dr. Bolden returned to Sheldon for the end of the academic year. Dr. Bolden returned in mid-May to resume his position, and prepare
to graduate the class of 2008. He led the team who chose graduation speakers, and was also involved in the Eugene IHS graduation ceremony. As the seniors prepare to walk across the Hult Center stage, Dr. Bolden will be the very last hand to shake at the June 12 commencement ceremony. Although Dr. Bolden may not be spotted often in the classroom, he does a remarkable job leading the Sheldon administration. Also, Dr. Bolden brings something special to Sheldon. According to senior Kelsey Drechsler, “I
think Dr. Bolden truly adds diversity to our school.” On a lighter note, Sheldon students can always expect more than a few ‘sup’s’ in the hallway from the school’s principal. Simply stated, “I just like how he dresses,” said fellow senior Drew Stringfield. As 380 students get ready to leave the halls of Sheldon High, the rest of Sheldon, along with the incoming freshman, can begin summer knowing they’ll return to one of the district’s best principals in the fall.
2 June 11, 2008
News
the Talisman
Campaign Comparisons Class elections allow students to get a taste for politics and oftentimes mirror American political campaigns
pieces of papers are handed out for the students to vote. “I decided to run because of spending some time in leadership class. I realized how students can make a difference by being in class office,” said sophomore Erin Lashway who ran for junior class secretary. “Sadly, students usually vote for their friends instead of basing their decision on who they think would do a better job,” said Erin Lashway. by Cammisha Manley Unlike the U.S presidential elections where adult votes are based features editor on the people’s experiences and views rather than their popularity. The junior and senior class officers’ main job and priority is to plan Most have noticed that the class election season has passed and prom. For some students, they run because they are interested in all of the posters have been taken down. Sheldon students have politics themselves and think running for high school class office is placed their votes and the results have been announced. Although a good way to start off in that direction. “I’d like to go into politics Sheldon class elections have finished we still have the Democratic or business. The Eurasian conference really got me interested in party nomination between Hillary Clinton and Barack Obama. politics,” said sophmore Joseph Houck who will be the junior Of course the heat between Clinton and Obama wasn’t the same class president for next year. Elections were held Friday, May for the Sheldon students who ran for office positions this year. 23. Hopefully all those running recycled their campaigning signs. Aside from finding out the results, campaigning is the most enjoyable part of the whole process for those running and is the one similarity to the U.S. Democratic campaign. “In order to win they need to have a status, get their names out and bribing is somewhat involved,” said sophomore Brianna Baxter. The students spend time coming up with catchy phrases and pick the best pictures to catch the students’ attention in the halls. There are no debates on issues in the school like there are for the U.S campaigns. Most the competition involved is how and where the students hang up their signs next to those of their opponents. The students running prepare and present their Greg Cantwell photo quick speeches to share A Sheldon junior makes a speech to fellow students during the class officer elections for the 2008-2009 school year. with their class and the tiny
Dubs Solo Night is a time for deep reflection Dublinaires spend time out of class rehearsing for this special night that has become tradition by Anna Catalano staff writer
June is an exciting time for the Dublinaires of the world (or at least, of Sheldon High School.) As the whirlwind of gigs begins to wind down and summer is right around the corner, these talented singers go forward to end the year with a Solo Night. Tonight (June 11), they will perform one or more songs to express themselves and their passion for singing. Preparation for this night takes long hours of dedication, rehearsals, and teamwork. Sophomore Stephanie Hawkins said, “We use class time to practice, as well as getting together on our own time and at lunch. It takes a lot of rehearsing, and sometimes requires more time than we have.” She will be performing with her
fellow sophomores Hollis Gehrett and Kaitlyn Sage. They chose their song because “it has good three-part harmony and it sounds really cool with our voices.” She also plans on singing another song that features her two brothers, who have been a part of Dubs in previous years. Senior Quang Pham thinks that having a Solo Night is an important part of the whole Dubs experience. “It’s fun and it gives the singers a chance to show their own voices as well as the kind of music they like,” said Pham. “It’s also the seniors’ last chance to perform here at Sheldon.” He prefers the genres of modern and show music, which is why he will be singing a song that was featured in the movie Enchanted. Having a night all about showcasing individual talent is an exciting and wonderful tradition here at Sheldon for all those who are proud to call themselves the Dublinaires.
S
October: SAT tests begin. October 31: Halloween “Just because it’s Halloween, ladies, it doesn’t mean you have to dress like prostitutes.”
December 8: Sheldon football wins state championship!
January 1: Sheldon faces a new year. “It’s finally 2008, w00t! Janurary 25: Rendezvous, a studentwritten, -produced, and -directed play, premieres. February 14: Valentines Day- “As lame as a turtle with a broken leg.” March 6: Despite McDonalds gun scare, a majority of students “feel safe at Sheldon.” April 1: Elyse Meyers returns to Sheldon.
May: AP/IB tests begin. May 23: Olivia Girod elected ASB prez.
September 5: School begins!
O
N
D
J
F
October 20: Homecoming “Join the rest of the student body for a magical, musical night at Sheldon.”
December 13: Profile on Dr. Bob’s suits.
January: Creation of “honors medals.”
January 28: Librarian Melinda returns after surgery. Students rejoice. February 15: Dr. Bob goes on maternity leave.
M
February 22: Dr. Bob’s 4th child, Amazing Grace Alvalisa Amethyst Bolden, is born. March 14: Daniel Bodily wins Mr. Irish.
A April 26: “Tower of Terror-ific” Prom.
M
May 22: Blackout gives students 90-minute lunch.
Graduation
the Talisman
June 11, 2008
3
Sheldon tweaks graduation ceremony A shortened ceremony is meant to make graduation more enjoyable for staff, students, and family members by Gracie Beaver editor-in-chief Today, Sheldon’s class of 2008 takes its final steps down these green concrete hallways. (That is, until they have to come back and pick up their yearbook and/or diploma.) Tomorrow, those same students will gather at the Hult Center for graduation, that traditional academic commencement ceremony. Sheldon often receives complaints from parents about the duration of the graduation ceremony. A few adjustments have been made to the ceremony to try to resolve this concern. The most major change was the removal of the traditional graduation procession; this decision was
later repealed by a committee who worked together to solve the time-crunch issue. Counselor Michael Voss assured, “The procession is happening.” Graduates will enter to “Pomp and Circumstance,” which will be performed by the jazz band. After a bit, Voss explained, the jazz band will “break into ‘Riverdance,’” to celebrate Sheldon’s Irish pride. This year, the graduates will line up in thirteen lines, headed up by thirteen teachers. Lines will start in the courtyard instead of in Studio One, which as registrar Jan Gordon explained, “will make it roomier and less hot.” Another change she mentioned was to have the “performers getting on stage quicker.” Because Sheldon’s main goal was to shorten the ceremony, performances and speeches were very limited this year. The ASB president and senior class president (Judy Lee and Lacey McJunkin) are giving speeches; only two other students were selected to speak (Ashley Ruderman and Ben Sundberg). Musical performances will be by members of the Dublinaires, and the final performance is the traditional
poem written by the AP English class. Voss explained that, “This is a graduation, not a talent show,” and noted that about thirty minutes of performances had been cut out to shorten the ceremony. Graduation typically runs until 9:15 or so; this year, the rite of passage is expected to be done by 8:30. Aside from these few changes, students and spectators will have a pretty run-of-the-mill Sheldon graduation. However, this is not just a big day for the students; teachers and other staff members have a role in graduation. Herb Hahn, Lynn Hellwege, and Irene Alderman were selected by the senior class to read aloud the names of the graduates. This will be Hahn’s third time reading the names of the graduates. “It’s an honor and a privilege…I am humbled by such things…” he said. Although Hahn has to read approximately 130 names (a third of the 380 graduates), he noted that he “gets more tired by a full-blown lecture.” Other staff members will be line leaders for the resurrected procession. The rest of the staff will sit in the front two rows, being able to watch the students they have affected walk across the stage.
Spotlight on student graduation performers Graduation— a bittersweet event that strikes fear and relief into the heart of every senior. A longtime Sheldon tradition consists of featuring a group of graduating teenagers who make speeches and perform songs to make the night special and memorable for everyone. After the nerve-wracking audition process, the group has been selected and is prepared to demonstrate their talent and originality on the night of June 12, 2008. The Talisman interviewed a small selection of these people to get an idea of what is going through their minds.
Nicole Ferguson-Performer
Ben Sundberg-Speaker
Ashley Admire photo
Ashley Admire photo
Why do you want to speak at graduation? I wanted to say something, not just to our parents and family, but to the Senior Class as well. More than a reflection on the past four years, I wanted to give my last minute advice to all of my fellow classmates. How was your audition? I was initially afraid that my speech didn’t fit the criteria, because the audition form, which I left in my truck, said that the speech was supposed to be about the last four years at Sheldon. This component I lacked in a big way. Later on I was told that because my speech wasn’t the cliché reflection that always numbs the audience, was why I was chosen to speak. What are you planning to speak about? That is a secret, but you can expect good things. I hope. How much have you practiced/will you practice? I have met with Barbara Faunce on many occasions to review, practice, and strengthen my speech. In fact, just this morning, Sunday, I put what I believe are the final touches on it. I hope to have the entire speech memorized, such that I won’t need to look at my notes. I’m almost there, but it will take a lot more practice. Are you looking forward to any of the other speeches or performances? I heard the Dubs Guys practicing in the hallway and I was really impressed. I look forward to hearing them at graduation. Also, I was really impressed with Ashley Ruderman’s speech and look forward to hearing her final draft.
What will you be doing for the graduation ceremony? Jessica Elder, Kati Sachs and I will be singing a song about growing up. Why do you think it’s important to have student speakers and performers at graduation? It gives people a reason to want to sit through it, and it also gives the students a chance to get to know things about each other that they might not have known otherwise. What is your most memorable experience from high school? Probably being involved with music and the Dublinaires. How have you prepared yourself for the experience of graduating? I’ve just worked really hard as a student these four years, and even though I’ll miss some things, I’m glad to be moving on.
Kelsey BrathovdePerformer What instrument do you play? The tenor saxophone. What are you performing? We’re performing River Dance for the processional. How did the audition go? Jordan Eddy photo The audition went well. It was kind of stressful because initially we thought it had to be two minutes to get a regular spot. They want it to be eight to ten minutes or longer. Is performing fun for you? Kind of. I think it’s really fun to play, but it’s extremely hard. You have to put a lot of focus into doing it right. How much did you practice the song? A lot. We have jazz band in the morning from 7:40 to 8:15. [River Dance has] been one of our main focuses for a few months. Could you play Flight of the Bumblebees on your sax? Ummm… I probably could if I really tried, but that doesn’t seem like the kind of song that I’d like to play.
4 June 11, 2008
Features
the Talisman
Dariano Mancuso, whose father is Joe Mancuso, a teacher here at Sheldon, said, “I like having my dad work at my school because knowing that he has access to my grades and can speak with my teachers at anytime really encourages me to work my hardest.” Of course, there are advantages as well. Maybe, if the student runs short on lunch money, then he or she can go straight to the parent, as long as the student is not disrupting the parent’s teaching. “I really like having my daughter attend the school I work at because it allows me to keep track of her at all times,” said Spanish teacher Tracy Engstrom, whose daughter is freshman Amanda Engstrom. Also, if a student was to have a bad day, then he or she could talk to his or her parent about it at anytime. The students who have parents at this school should be grateful because they get the extra effort of being pushed to work hard by their parents everyday and the parents get the advantage of pushing them. So students be grateful, and parents keep pushing them.
Mother and daughter: Connie Minihan and Nikki Minihan, a senior, share something in common: both work in our school offices.
Student advantage: parent working at school Having a parent working at school is actually considered to be a positive by Naima Lobby staff writer A lot of teenagers just want to get away from their parents. But for several students here at Sheldon, getting away isn’t so easy since they each have a parent who works here at school. Day after day the student or the parent has to come to the work place or school place and enjoy his or her day knowing that his or her kid or parent is in the same building. Freshman Sabreen Al-Saihati said, “If one of my parents worked at my school, I think it would be weird. I’d feel as if my privacy was being invaded. But if they just let me be a kid at school. I would be okay with that.” Some people might not like having their parent teaching at their school for a variety of reasons. If a student had gotten in an argument with a parent and just wanted to get away, he or she might be blessed with the chance to just haul off to school and get away from that parent, but if a parent works at the school, the student won’t get the luxury of that. Of course most parents love their children, but that doesn’t mean they want them around all the time and then when they go to work, they also have to play the parent at school and watch over their children. Freshman
Cammisha Manley photo
Academy Awards: a celebration of achievement Sheldon’s 21st Annual Academic Awards are always a celebration by Jordan Eddy assistant editor “Sheldon has always had an awards assembly,” said Yvonne Fasold, a former Sheldon teacher. Back in 1987, when Fasold taught English and reading, the Sheldon staff decided to take it up a notch, “We were thinking, ‘What would really jazz up our awards ceremony?’” That’s when they came up with the idea for an Academy Awards-style presentation—everyone would dress up, teachers would present the awards and (most intriguingly)
the winners would be kept secret until the event. Twenty-one years later, the program is still, “Like the real Academy Awards,” said Academy Awards head coordinator Cindy Best. Indeed, the May 24 ceremony was quite ritzy and at times suspenseful. Don’t get confused— the Academy Awards night isn’t a film festival. Sheldon counselor and coordinator John O’Donoghue describes it as, “An opportunity to reward various achievements by our student body.” Weeks before the event, Sheldon teachers got together to decide which students excelled in each department, “It’s hard choosing,” said Spanish teacher Lisa Albrich, who met with other teachers to pick the “students of the year” for Spanish language, “You have to look at who are the good readers and writers and speakers, who has a passion for the language, and just go from there.” She said that it’s always a struggle to choose among all of her fantastic students, which is why she nominated three this year.
More than a hundred students and their families gathered in the Sheldon auditorium on the night of the event. Student hosts Ashley Garber and Trevor Eichorn introduced teachers and community members, who presented the awards. Sheldon students received recognition for college scholarships, athletic abilities, involvement in activities, and high achievement in classes. As the original idea suggested, the element of surprise played a role in the proceedings. Award winner Carly King said she, “Had no idea” that she was going to receive one of her awards. “Most Improved Student of the Year” went to Nicholas Galindo, “Outstanding Senior Young Woman” went to Sophie Davis, and “Outstanding Senior Young Man” went to Eichorn. Best was happy with how the event turned out, “It was really good this year—we got it done in 2 hours,” Best said; “We had everything together.” One thing’s for sure: Oscar would be proud.
High-pitched ring tone difficult for adults to hear A tone meant to disperse young people has been turned into an advantage for them by Laren Scott staff writer
You are a Welsh security company that developed a tone to help shopkeepers disperse young people loitering in front of their stores while leaving adults unaffected. Now, imagine how you would feel when you found out your technology had taken an entirely new spin when some clever students decided to turn the tables and transform your tone into a new phone ring
that only students can hear. You’d be pretty embarrassed. Its name is the Mosquito Ring Tone (also known as the “Teen Buzz”) and it is sweeping the nation’s schools, one cell phone at a time. How is it possible for students to hear something that adults can’t, you may ask? The answer lies in a biological inevitability that hearing experts refer to as presbycusis, or aging ear. Most adults over 40 seem to exhibit some degree of symptoms. While most human communication takes place in a frequency range between 200 and 8,000 hertz, the Mosquito Ring Tone is 17 kilohertz. For those of you who haven’t brushed up on your scientific units of frequency today, 17 kilohertz is extremely highpitched — so high-pitched, only young adults can hear it (think of it kind of like a human dog whistle). When asked if he had ever had a run in with the ring tone, teacher Jeremy Washburn said, “Yeah, in my freshman honors class.” He went on to explain it doesn’t
matter so much that he can’t hear the tone because he can usually tell when people are texting in class anyway. Apparently, students nation-wide have been using the Teen Buzz to receive text messages and calls during school hours, discreetly slipping out of class to go to the “bathroom.” If you’re wondering if you’ve ever heard the tone before, it’s probably safe to say if you’re wondering, you’ve never heard it. When asked about the tone, science teacher Carol Standefer said, “Well, I think [the Mosquito Ring Tone] is equivalent to someone deliberately breaking the law.” As most students know, first time cell phone offenders generally receive a warning. Then, if they persist (and the teacher catches them, of course), the cell phone is taken away for varying amounts of time, depending on the teacher. Some even go so far as to take the phone away and not give it back until the student’s parents pick it up. There have been rumors in the corporate American world about bringing the Mosquito Ring Tone back to its roots and using it once more as a young adult repellent. There have been no solid facts to support this rumor, however. All things considered, this newfangled “Teen Buzz” will either catch flame and become a worldwide solution (or problem, depending on your views) to communicating during class time, or it will simply die out like most technological trends do. We live in such fickle times, who knows?
Sports
the Talisman
June 11, 2008
5
Polski’s big plans for the future Varsity boys golf letterman Nic Polski caps off a great Sheldon career and is now in pursuit of the PGA by Jeff Toreson sports editor
1. How long have you been golfing? “I started golfing when I was six years old, so about twelve years now.”
6. Would you want to golf for a living? “Yeah, that is what i plan on doing, and once I turn pro I will want my longtime friend Kevin Clark on the bag.”
2. Why do you love to golf? “I love the competitivness with all the golfers and I love the feeling of winning.”
7. How will the Sheldon Golf program fair without you and Phil Bagdade? “I would say no, but there is really so much talent left on the team. Jay Puffinberger should lead the team, but he is followed by two great talents in Jeff Toreson and Jason Cole who I expect to go low, and Tyler Bevens will be a good back-up.”
3. What has been your favorite moment throughout your high school career? “When we won State as a team in 2006, but individually when I won the Southwest Conference District meet with a 69 on the final day this year.”
Jeff Toreson photo
Nic Polski will play at the University of Portland.
4. Which Player on the PGA tour does your game most reflect? “The only guy I can think of is Tiger Woods, Because we both dominate our competition.”
8. What would you like to accomplish in your future golf career? “Its only a matter of time before I will be playing on the PGA tour. My ultimate goal would be to win the major grand slam (The Masters, British Open, U.S. Open, and PGA Championship) and become the best golfer ever.”
5. Who has been your biggest influence as a golfer? “My brother Chris Polski, who is currently trying to become a professional golfer as well; he has taught me everything i know today.”
9. If, for some reason golf does not work out, what will you do? “I will follow my second passion and become a profesional poker player.”
Oregon’s $200,000,000 arena proposal Oregon Athletic Director Pat Kilkenny says Mac Court will be replaced with the most expensive college arena ever built by Jeff Toreson sports editor There are only seconds left in an Oregon basketball game and the opposing team has two free-throws or one final possession to try to win the game. It is up to the 10,000 Duck fans to get as rowdy as possible and make the opponent lose the game, and bag another home court win for the Ducks. This is the McArthur Court experience of an Oregon basketball game, where three balconies of Oregon Duck fans make games nearly impossible to win for opposing teams coming into Mac Court. This historic college basketball arena is planned to fall to the ground some time in the future, as it is proposed to be replaced with a brand new arena which will seat 12,500 and will be a 200 million dollar project. Many former students and fans of Oregon Basketball are protesting this proposed arena because they think Mac Court does not need to be torn down and are not ready to lose “The Pit.” “I have seen and experienced many great games at Mac Court and I am not ready to lose that,” said sophomore and Duck fan Nick Stringfield. “If Oregon builds a new, bigger arena they will struggle to fill it as Mac Court is not always full,” said sophomore Hayden Randall.
“I think the Ducks will lose some of their home court advantage they have with Mac court, like having the basket shake when our Duck fans get really loud.” Although there are many memories and attachments between Duck fans and Mac Court, there are plenty of reasons to tear down the 82year-old historical structure. “One problem I can think of with ‘The Pit’ is that some seats are placed directly behind one of the pillars and you have a terrible view of the court,” said avid Duck fan sophomore Trevor Davies. Obstructed views are Jeff Toreson photo just one of the problems with the current Mac Court, along with duct taped pipes and shattered windows. The new arena proposal is scheduled to open in 2010. You will be assured of no more obstructed views in the new Oregon arena as proposed. If Oregon Athletic Director Pat Kilkenny raises enough money to follow through with the 200 million dollar arena it will become the most expensive college basketball arena ever built. The 405,000 square foot complex has been proposed to have a smaller gym which will hold wrestling and volleyball games, while keeping the main arena for Oregon Basketball. The arena will try to keep Mac Court tradition as there will be a huge T.V. screen in the halls that will play former highlights of the last 80 years of Oregon basketball and tons of wall graphics of former Oregon players. Now it is up to Kilkenny to decide to follow through on his plans and build the so called best college basketball venue in the nation or to keep the tradition of McArthur Court. Whichever he chooses there are Jeff Toreson photo going to be disappointed Duck fans, but he must think McArthur Court may see its final season next winter. about what is best for the future of Oregon Basketball.
Pétanque requires physical and mental skills Sheldon Pétanque continues to prove to people that it is more than an ordinary game by Lauren Scott staff writer Brows furrowing in deep concentration, the athlete attempted to determine the distance between him and his goal. Flexing his arm muscles, he slowly drew his arm back before quickly bringing it up, letting the boule fly through the air. A smile broke out on his face as the heavy metal ball fell perfectly into position, nestled beside the cochonnet. Oui, oui, Sheldon — French sport is the game and Pétanque is its name! Only last month did Sheldon’s Varsity Pétanque team participate in the annual tournament among Marist, South, Churchill, and the Fighting Irish. “We did very well in this year’s tournament, comparatively,” said Angela Barley, French teacher and Pétanque team taskmaster. We swept the whole last round, [and] that was excellent. I was very happy about that.” Even though the Sheldon team came in third, they fought
hard to be where they ended up. They braved ninety plus degree weather and the looming reputation of Churchill’s all-star team. However, as usual, Sheldon had the best attitude and took the mild gibing and teasing with good humor – especially after they leveled the competition in the remaining singles, doubles, and triples rounds. “I’ve played [Pétanque] since the beginning of this year, so two seasons,” said freshman Bailey Bernheine. “I prefer playing triples.” Pétanque is not as easy a sport as some other students or athletes may believe, despite the joke that it’s the sport for the “athletically challenged.” In fact, Pétanque requires acute distance perception, aim, and a basic idea of physics never hurt either. In more advanced leagues, there are numerous difficult skills players must acquire to even be considered a true “Pétanquer.” In the end, one student on the varsity team won a letter, and the others gained patches and gold bars for their time and effort (not to mention some rather spectacular sunburns!). “I think [Pétanque] is fun and it’s different from the normal sports,”
stated junior Ashley Workman. “It’s not as competitive and not all about winning.” If you are interested in joining the tight-knit Varsity Pétanque team next year, contact Angela Barley in room B-4 for more information, available in French and English. Come help make the team even better, whether for your own leisure, to learn more about the French culture, or to meet fellow Pétanque teams from other schools! Players welcome!
Mapping out the future University of British Columbia (Vancouver)
Portland
McMinnville
•Linfield College (1 student)
Monmouth
•Western Oregon University (3 students)
•Portland State University (3 students) •University of Portland (4 students) •Reed (1 student) •Art Institute (1 student) •Portland Community College (1 student) Salem •Lewis and Clark College (1 student) •Willamette University (1 student) •Corban College (1 student) •Chemeketa Community College (2 students)
•Oregon State University (12 students)
(WA: see list below)
Bethany College of Missions (Minneapolis) Wollander, Deborah
(OR: see list below)
Boise State University of Idaho (Moscow)
Bend
•Central Oregon Community College (1 student)
Burke, Casey
University of Nevada, Las Vegas
Shasta College (Redding)
Abeene, Kenisha
Patterson, Kaitlyn
Utah State (Logan)
Or
Bierce, Tyler Bishop, Robyn
Adamonis, Torie Anglim, Robert Bailey, Joshua Correll, Casey Devito, Courtney Foster, Michelle Goddard, Haley Griggs, Evan Grohs, Tiffany Gussenhoven, Austen Hyde, Karlie Jarvis, Alexandria Kragness, Mary Laszlo, Nicholas Lontz, Michaela McDonald, Ryan Melton, Ryan Mohr, Ethan Ngo, Calvin Panfilova, Alexandra Pell, Cameron Pinkham, Ashley Sachs, Kathryn Semien, Chauntel Shaddy, Christopher Shaneyfelt, Brandon Vanderford, Kaitlin Vilhauer, Kerby Wassom, Kristen Williams, Devinnie Williamson, Chad
Oregon State University Alberts, Tanner Anderson, Stephanie Anderson, William Elder, Jessica Estrada, Brianna Fisher, Katelyn Lee, David Louie, Alan Rembolt, Kari Shores, Jeffrey Sundberg, Benjamin Wilson, Jaron
Figgat, Kacey Stanley, Sienna
Hancock College (Santa Maria) Klamath Falls Straka, Peter
Carter-Allen, Kaleb
UCLA
Lane Community College
Bringham Young University (Provo) Eggleston, Whitney Robinson, David
Cal Poly (San Luis Obispo)
-Southern Oregon -Oregon Institute of University Technology (1 student) (2 students)
Dordt College (Sioux Center)
Tusek, Cari
Humbolt State University (Arcata) Fischer, Sarah
s o o l h c S on Ashland
Admire, Ashley Arpaia, Chiarra Baker, Brandon Beaver, Gracie Blewett, Stephanie Cochran, Molly Coffee, Bradley Coles, Amanda Cunningham, Erin Davis, Olivia Dickey, Michael Dreschsler, Kelsey Eddy, Jordan Embery, Austin Enders, Steven Erwin, Elizabeth Ferguson, Nicole Flock, Ashley Gilchrist, Garrett Greider, Jillian Hallam, Suzannah Henley, Brittany Holland, Nick Jaeger, Peter Kammerzelt, John Lavasseur, Samantha Lee, Sun mi Lindley, Tyler Lovendahl, Jane Martell, Tyler McConville, Kelsey McHorse, Brianna Merfeld, Bradley Mosher, Kasey Nicholson, Daniel Palma, Victor Pravo, Kyle Smith, Samantha Stringfield, Drew Swenson, Jacob Vollstedt, Garrett Wang, Yang Washburn, Kelly Webber, Arianna White, Nicole Witter, Colin
University of Toronto (Ontario)
Moore, Geoffrey
•University of Oregon (46 students) •Lane Community College (30 students)
University of Oregon
Fancher, Audrey
Kieran, Shannon
Corvallis
Eugene
eg
Peters, Olivia
Trinity Western University (Langley, British Columbia)
Houck, Andrew
University of Arizona (Tuscon) Bagdade, Phillip
Arizon State (Tempe) Godfrey, Lauren
Western Oregon University (Monmouth) Given, Rebecca Hough, Emily McJunkin, Lacey
Willamette University (Salem) Lee, Judy
Corban College (Salem) Steigleman, Katherine
Chemeketa Community College (Salem)
Emory-Riddle University (Prescott) Southern Oregon University (Ashland)
Aaron, Monica
Howell, Erin Van Ravenhorst, Kelli
Oregon Institute of Technology (Klamath Falls)
What are you most looking forward to in your post high school life?
Roberts, Justin
Haugh, Andrew Garber, Ashley
Portland State University Hanson, Caroline DeBow, Kierra Todd, Zach
University of Portland Lew, Christopher Simpson, Whitney Strahon, Allix White, Lindsey
Reed Collge (Portland) Rice, Alexander
Art Institute of Portland Leo, LeAna
Portland Community College
WASHINGTON
OTHER
Melton, Benjamin Melton, Katherine Moore, Margaret Ngo, Yvonne
Army
University of Washington (Seattle) Air National Guard Howland, Travis Strauch, Lauren
Seattle University King, Carly
Seattle Pacific Morgan, Patricia
Andrews, David Marines Sellars, Sean Travel Wicklund, April (Europe)
Cornish College of the Arts (Seattle) Eichhorn, Trevor
Washington State University (Pullman)
“The freedom from my parents and a higher education in medicine?” -David Robinson
Brathovde, Kelsey Buerstatte, Chloe
University of Puget Sound (Tacoma) Gray, Emily Gulian, Sarah
McKibben, Reonna
Gonzaga University (Spokane)
Central Oregon Community College (Bend)
Ruderman, Ashley
Cleveland, Brittany
Texas Christian University (Dallas)
Chatham, Melanie
Central Washington University (Ellensburg) Stein, Jonathan
“Makin’ some skrills...possibly UFC fighting...just livin’ the dream.” -Wil Anderson
“Hopefully starting a career in Firefighting/EMT and getting away from this God-forsaken place.” -Stuart Sabin
“I’m running away to wherever life takes me. Wherever it takes me I’m going to enjoy myself. You only live once, and my motto in life is ‘Live life to its fullest even if you look crazy doing it.’ World here I come!” -Tiki Seghetti
“Crazy college life.” -Joseph Park
“Freedom to do as I please and extending my education towards a career in business. And I’m looking forward to to traveling.” -Justin Pierce
“[Becoming a] world-renowned animator.” -Kayla Hatteli
8 June 11, 2008
Opinion
the Talisman
Mandatory exams inflict anxiety Oregon Board of Education requiring new standardized tests for next year’s froshies, the class of 2012
possible disadvantages to such an implementation. This requirement would likely lead to “teaching to the test.” Teachers will be forced to put a strong focus on information that students may encounter on the tests. Instead of well-rounded educations through interesting classes, students would be subject to rote memorization and dull lectures. Science teacher Jud Landis explained,
“The freshmen science course is based on the test,” but agreed that, “if that becomes the only thing it can definitely take the fun out of it.” Said Landis, “The tests are high-stakes for the school, the administration, and the teachers [because the school by Ashley Admire is evaluated by the federal government based on test assistant editor scores.] The only people they aren’t high-stakes for are the people taking them.” Proponents The Oregon Board of the new requirement argue that it of Education recently would create an incentive for students passed an initiative that to do well on state tests that have will require students, held little weight in the past. While beginning with the class this incentive may work for a small of 2012 (September’s number of students, it is unlikely freshmen), to prove to have an overwhelming effect on that they have mastered overall test scores. It certainly would essential skills by high make no difference for students who, school’s end. This no matter how hard they try, do not will very likely mean test well. Test anxiety cannot be that students will be helped by placing greater importance required to pass Oregon’s on a single test. Perhaps this issue statewide standardized speaks more to the necessity of a tests in order to receive new way for the federal government high school diplomas. to evaluate a school’s performance Alternatives could rather than to how Oregon can solve be available, such as suspected student apathy. achieving a minimum It is understandable that, on local, score on the SAT or AP state, and national levels, standardized tests, but proficiency tests are the simplest solutions in shown by state reading, terms of time, money, and effort. writing, and math tests Officials must, however, consider how would be the preferred to best serve the community. Students path. Some say this deserve the best education possible requirement would be an and a fair assessment of how well they effective method to make Olivia Peters photo have absorbed that education. sure students are ready If new standardized tests are imposed, students will have to become more adroit at their rote to graduate, but there are memorization skills in order to pass a mandatory high school exit exam.
Troubles arise in boy/girl friendships As the year comes to a close, be nice, be clear, and figure out what you want by Alicia Luck opinion editor
Dear Talisman, In a moment of stupidity, I kissed my best friend. Now he thinks I like him…I just think he’s really attractive is all! I want to kiss him again, but I feel it would be leading him on. What should I do? Dear Girl in Trouble, It sounds like you have quite a problem there. In my opinion you need to evaluate what you feel for your best friend because I feel like from what you’ve said it’s more than just attraction because attraction most of the time is about what a person looks like and he’s your best friend. There is a reason why he’s your best friend to begin with. Being best friends is a strong connection so even if you feel totally platonic towards him I have a feeling it’s more than attraction, curiosity possibly. Being curious seems to be a likely answer to why you kissed him in the first place, but there is a big difference between kissing him once and wanting to kiss him again. I think somewhere deep inside of your heart that you either full on like your best friend or have a slight crush on him. A crush you can get over faster, but if you truly like him then you have to kiss him. Please, for both of your sakes, figure out what you truly want. Dear Talisman, Girls sitting in a groups jeering or laughing at a girl who is sitting close to them - how would someone who doesn’t know them or the situation help? Dear Concerned Person, I feel like you should ask the girl who sits by herself. The other girls seem to feel better than she. People always put others down to make themselves feel better. I have to say getting involved with the situation should depend on what they say to the other girl. If you feel that they have a very emotional impact on the other girl then it could probably be a good idea to get involved. If it is bad enough I would get a principal or parent involved because no person has the right to put another person down.
Dear Talisman, My mom keeps on telling me that I have to do my homework all in a row. I am trying EXTREMELY hard to convince her that if I do it in staggered intervals (ex. 30 min. English, 30 min. break, finish with science). How can I convince my mom that this is better than all at once? Dear Homework Troubled, I believe that if you tell your mom that you focus better if you take a break, she might listen to what you have to say, but you have to bring it up in a way that wouldn’t lead to an intense argument because all parents and children fight. The way you have The sparkly Talisman box is a great place to go for advice. So is your homework situation set up the Talisman’s email, shstalisman@gmail.com, or room B-26. sounds great. The set up will help because you have a small amount of homework
Talisman
Dear Talisman, I notice that when some of our blind students are going through the halls some people tend to jump over their canes and step in front of them on purpose. How do I tell them to stop? Dear Concerned Student, People sometimes don’t understand what they are doing because the blind students have canes so they figure that it wouldn’t affect how they are walking. They don’t understand what it’s like to be blind; they figure that the blind kids have good enough hearing to also know that they are sneaking up on them.
Editor-in-Chief Assistant Editor Assistant Editor Ads Manager Features Editor Opinion Editor Sports Editor Staff Writer Staff Writer Staff Writer Staff Writer Staff Writer Staff Advisor
Staff
Gracie Beaver Ashley Admire Jordan Eddy Nicole Callihan Cammisha Manley Alicia Luck Jeff Toreson Anna Catalano Melissa Gibson Naima Lobby Ashley Ruderman Lauren Scott Greg Cantwell
Special thanks from the editor
A message from the Talisman
Thank you to our lovely alumni Emily Higgins, Deidre Jones, Lani Wright, Kate Carlson, and Joe Roberts for donating your time to help in putting together this issue. Also, thank you to everyone who has participated in the Talisman this year. This includes everybody who has ever been interviewed, photographed, polled, or even just picked up the newspaper and read this product of hours of hard work. And finally, thank you to Greg Cantwell, the best advisor in the history of time.
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.
Commentary
the Talisman
June 11, 2008
9
Modest Mouse music peerless The rock band Modest Mouse hits Bend by Cammisha Manley features editor Memorial Day weekend in Bend was also “concert weekend.” Michael Franti and Spearhead, Death Cab For Cutie and Modest Mouse performed at the Les Schwab Amphitheater. I was lucky to see Modest Mouse on Sunday when I went down there with a few of my friends. I’ve listened to Modest Mouse for about three years and I never thought that I would have the chance to see them live. My expectations of the concert were met by far; although their slow songs, which I am a fan of, didn’t get performed much. The songs that I wasn’t a big fan of I like more now because of hearing it live. The two opening bands were The
Breeders and The National. I had not heard of either but still enjoyed them. The Breeders had a hint of Tegan and Sara’s voices and a drop of Yeah Yeah Yeah’s rock-styled music. The National lead singer and song writer was so extremely intense about the music they were performing that it made it entertaining to watch and got the fans hyped up. Looking back on it, I can see how those first two bands prepared us for Modest Mouse. As humble as their name may sound, they’re music is way more extreme. The first song they played was Satin In A Coffin immediately within the first verse everyone starting moshing with the music. We became out of control of our bodies and our minds. The one question I ask myself when I fall in love with a new band is what makes them different from all the others? It doesn’t take long to come up with an answer when I’m thinking about Modest Mouse. Their sound is peerless and makes fans
Cammisha Manley photo
Modest Mouse put on a great show in Bend on Memorial Day weekend. feel like crawling out of their skin. The bands lyrics make the songs deepening each time you listen to them and give you a feeling of truth. Their newest album We Were Dead Before
The Ship Even Sank was released March last year, and although some fans said that they sold out I’d have to disagree. The lyrics and sound are just as great as they were before.
Senior reflects on his long final year After four years at Sheldon, time seems to stand still for one senior who bites his tongue daily by Joe Roberts guest writer The year couldn’t end fast enough. Each senior entered Sheldon with the same thought this year, “Why won’t the year just end so I can get on with my life?” With underclassmen crowding the halls and the AP/IB tests breathing down the necks of many seniors, this year many were brought to the point of mental breakdowns. The teachers hoped for little beyond keeping the attention of their senior students as senioritis began to take root. Of course it is not clear why they had such foolish hopes to begin with, but my teachers were quickly sapped of all hope as I snored in the back of their classes. Though I’ve enjoyed many benefits as a senior, including getting out of this institutionalized holding pen at the end of this day, these benefits could never outweigh the inconvenience of underclassmen. Many seniors, including myself, openly talked about a “senior bat” program to deal with the clusters of underclassmen in the already crowded hallways. Unfortunately, the brutality of the program so offended the IHS students, staff and any seniors with a shred of humanity left that the program never got off the ground.
Enough ragging on underclassmen, they catch enough guff from the other upperclassman without me ragging on them in the newspaper, ignoring the fact that they are insignificant to all of the graduating seniors. Honestly though, the worst experience in Sheldon has to be experienced by the senior teachers, as apathy grows among their students, grades drop, total productivity drops to near nothing, and the general atmosphere fills the teacher with a sense of despair as his or her prodigy goes out into the world without having properly experienced the class. Since this is the last day, take a moment to actually listen to what your teachers say and show that you know something besides how to nod and pretend to pay attention without learning anything on a permanent basis. I hate to say it, but I have had the urge to grab people in my class and say, “Stop talking; you are lowering the cumulative IQ of the room with every nonsensical word that comes out of your mouth. So, for the love of God, just shut your mouth!” This doesn’t apply to everyone, but those who it does apply to probably don’t know who they are because I don’t openly acknowledge the stupid things they say. There was one major exception - the students in my AP European History class. I consider them some of my closer friends and I actually enjoy being around them. Well, I enjoy being around most of them. I’ll probably visit the juniors I met in that class this coming year to annoy them and Alderman - mostly the latter. It’s made my social life kind of strange, especially considering the
attempted sorties into different groups under different personality guises. Who can forget the cliques that have stayed with us for four years or more? The Jocks hate the Goths while the Preps feel like they’re above everyone else. The Nerds are wondering what a social life is and the Geeks are playing D&D in the cafeteria. Towards the end of the year these cliques began to break down as everyone was anticipating the end of the chaos created by senior year. Getting out of here and away from all the senseless drama has been the sole motivation for passing any of my classes this year. By far the highlight of the year had to be the day I worked with the drama kids during the performance of Singing in the Rain. The “bling-guin” has to be the coolest doodle I’ve ever seen; it was tempting to buy a stuffed penguin that night and put a bunch of “bling” on it and taking massive numbers of photos for the people in drama who have strange obsessions with penguins in general. While movies and books often tell of what a positive experience high school is and how the problems that people have build great character for later life, this does not match the reality. Nary a day has gone by that my soul hasn’t died a little bit after dealing with underclassmen or my fellow seniors. It’s been four years at Sheldon that seemed to last an eternity; every milestone seemed farther away than the last and the people who I’ve been forced to deal with have made me wish it had all ended sooner.
This year has been about organization Sophomore year has provided fun and new things for this student to experience by Alicia Luck opinion editor At the start of this year I had no idea what to expect. Freshman year had been quite an experience. When I was a freshman it felt like I was in someone else’s body watching events unfold before me. This year, on the other hand, I have a hold on what is going on around me. I knew how my schedule worked and how to handle the load of classwork from IHS. My understanding of getting up for zero period widened and I got used to the early rising; I no longer felt like a vampire being pulled out of its coffin. There were so many days last year I wished to
pull the covers back on and sleep until eternity’s end. The only thing that was a new experience for me was the concept of marching band. I had been to the football games many times and watched the band perform, but it was a totally different experience actually doing it. I have absolutely no hand-eye coordination and that made it hard to learn to march and keep my head from bobbing. For me this year was a lot about growing and realizing my responsibility toward doing my school work. Homework doesn’t seem like such a hassle anymore now that I know how to organize my schedule. Having seven classes isn’t easy. It can be a struggle sometimes, but if you know how to be prepared you can get through it. Life has started to make sense and form some kind of pattern that I can get used to. I’m not normally an organized person, but this pattern has helped me get through the school year successfully. The Talisman this year has provided me with a whole new set of priorities. Being an editor isn’t as simple as it sounds. Let’s just say that come print night, I get a little
stressed out because using InDesign is tricky. I learned a lot the first month I used it and since then I’ve been learning and picking up tricks that help organize the page. The advice column has provided me with a way to help solve some of my own personal problems that are those of an average sixteen-year-old. Everyone has a personal view on what high school is and I believe it’s a learning experience to the extent where you have to fight through it. There are days when I just wish it would be over so I don’t have to deal with what’s happening at that moment. I have high expectations for next year because of how well the school year went this year. Junior year is suppose to be the hardest year in IHS, but with a little organization I will be able to get through it. I also have a step sister who has gone through the junior year experience. My brother will have graduated three years ago from Sheldon and IHS, so he’s helpful. IHs has been a wonderful experience and I can’t wait for next year. The IHS assembly reminded me of this.
10 June 11, 2008 Kenisha Abeene Turnaround Achievement Award Ashley Admire Outstanding Talisman Layout & Design Student of the Year University of Oregon Dean’s Scholarship Tony Ahn Outstanding Advanced Physics Student of the Year Tanner Alberts Delta Rotary Scholarship Earl Hulstrom Masonic Scholarship Stephanie Anderson OASSA Student of Merit: Science OASSA Student of Merit: Industrial Arts William Anderson OSAA Athlete Scholar Robert Anglim OSAA Activity Scholar Outstanding Young Man Choral Student of the Year Chiarra Arpaia Outstanding Social Studies Student of the Year 4.0 GPA Student Philip Bagdade OSAA Athlete Scholar Jamie Balaty Certificate of Advanced Mastery in Business OASSA Student of Merit: Business/ Marketing Gracie Beaver Outstanding Talisman Student of the Year 4.0 GPA Student Universtiy of Oregon Dean’s Scholarship Noah Belcher John Philip Sousa Award Tyler Bierce OSAA Activity Scholar Haley Blake OSAA Athlete Scholar Daniel Bodily Outstanding Math Student of the Year Roland A. & Dora Mae Crabtree Scholarship 4.0 GPA Student Macy Bothman Female PE Student of the
Senior Issue
2008 Academy Awards
Year Niki Bothman ASB Officer Award – Publicity OSAA Athlete Scholar U.S. Marine Corps Distinguished Athlete Award Kelsey Brathovde OASSA Student of Merit: Language Arts OSAA Activity Scholar OSAA Athlete Scholar Outstanding Child Development Student of the Year Washington State University Cougar Academic Award Patrick Bryant Outstanding Advanced Physics Student of the Year Chloe Buerstatte OSAA Athlete Scholar Senior Class Officer Award – Secretary Washington State University Cougar Academic Award Casey Burke Dordt College Honors Scholarship Dordt College Football Athletic Scholarship Dordt College Men’s Track Athletic Scholarship Lily Bussel Eugene Rotary Club Outstanding Youth Recognition Award Mariah Butts Liberty Bank Lane Community College Scholarship Nicole Callihan OSAA Activity Scholar Outstanding Ceramics Student of the Year John Campbell Lane Community College Gilma Greenhoot High School Scholarship Joel Chapman Science Achievement Award in Physics Melanie Chatham Society of Women
Engineers Highest Honor Award Zachary Childers OSAA Athlete Scholar U.S. Army Reserve National Scholar/Athlete Award Yun A Choe OSAA Activity Scholar Patricia Choi Outstanding Japanese Student of the Year Society of Women Engineers High Honor Award Brad Coffee Certificate of Advanced Mastery in Business Madelyn DamewoodRose AFS Award for Excellence Cory Darnielle Louis Armstrong Award OSAA Activity Scholar Performing Arts Student of Merit Olivia Davis Delta Rotary Scholarship OASSA Student of Merit: Mathematics OSAA Activity Scholar Sophia Davis Outstanding AP U.S. History Student of the Year Outstanding Senior Young Woman of the Year 4.0 GPA Student Chantal DeGiusti Dance Student of the Year Sarah Dougherty Eugene Rotary Club Outstanding Youth Recognition Award Kelsey Drechsler Delta Rotary Scholarship Jordan Eddy OSAA Athlete Scholar Outstanding Talisman Layout & Design Student of the Year Rachel Edson Best Actress of the Year Whitney Eggleston Outstanding Visual Arts
Student of Merit 4.0 GPA Student Trevor Eichhorn Best Actor of the Year Outstanding Senior Young Man of the Year Outstanding Young Man Choral Student of the Year Elyse Elder Lane Community College Wayne Shields High School Scholarship Jessica Elder Outstanding Young Woman Choral Student of the Year Steven Enders Mathematics Association of America Award Outstanding AP U.S. History Student of the Year Elizabeth Erwin OSAA National Federation of State High Schools Award of Excellence Brianna Estrada ASB Officer Award – Secretary Audrey Fancher Dr. Niles & Team Civic/Scholastic Award Margo Faulk Bausch & Lomb Science Award Robert Fazio OSAA Athlete Scholar OSAA National Federation of State High Schools Award of Excellence Krystal Fischer OSAA Activity Scholar Sarah Fischer OSAA Athlete Scholar Ashley Flock OSAA Activity Scholar University of Oregon Dean’s Scholarship Nicholas Galindo Most Improved Senior of the Year Ashley GarberDoornink Outstanding Young Woman Choral Student of the Year Roberto Garcia OSAA Athlete Scholar Daniel Gardner Outstanding Advanced
Biology Student of the Year Lauren Godfrey Arizona State University Sun Devil Scholarship Outstanding Yearbook Student of the Year Emily Gray ASB Officer Award – Vice President OSAA Athlete Scholar Sarah Gulian OASSA Student of Merit: Health/Physical Education Logan Haugen Outstanding Child Development Student of the Year Daehee Hong OSAA Activity Scholar Chloe Howard Greatest Contribution to Radio Broadcast Erin Howell Dorothy Watson Scholarship Outstanding Child Development Student of the Year Peter Jaeger OSAA Athlete Scholar Erik Jenson Outstanding Advanced Chemistry Student of the Year Carly King Comcast Leaders and Achievers Scholarship OSAA Athlete Scholar Seattle University Trustee Scholarship U.S. Army Reserve National Scholar/Athlete Award Cassie Kornman Outstanding Technical Student of the Year Aaron Kuipers Dance Student of the Year Rashelle Kunkle Certificate of Advanced Mastery in Business Candace La Zar Outstanding Drama Student of the Year Judy Lee ASB Officer Award –
President Future First Citizen Award for Sheldon High School Ross Limbach OSAA Athlete Scholar Jessica Long Turnaround Achievement Award Jane Lovendahl Outstanding French Student of the Year Erin Malliris OSAA Athlete Scholar OSAA Activity Scholar Kirk Mann OASSA Student of Merit: Fine Arts – Performing Tyler Martell OSAA Athlete Scholar Elizabeth May OSAA Activity Scholar Kelsey McConville ASB Officer Award – Activity U.S. Marine Corps Scholastic Excellence Award Brianna McHorse High School Writer Award John Philip Sousa Award OSAA Activity Scholar Science Achievement Award in Chemistry University of Washington National Merit Scholarship 4.0 GPA Student Lacey McJunkin Oregon Army National Guard “You Can” Award for Leadership Excellence OSAA Athlete Scholar Outstanding Spanish Student of the Year Senior Class Officer Award – President Corinne McWilliams Arizona State University Sun Devil Scholarship OSAA Athlete Scholar Sheldon Booster Club Scholarship 4.0 GPA Student Benjamin Melton OSAA Athlete Scholar Katie Melton
Senior Class Officer Award - Vice President Bradley Merfeld UA Local Union 290 Scholarship Nicole Minihan OSAA Activity Scholar Ethan Mohr OSAA Activity Scholar Geoffrey Moore Boise State University Gem High Tech Scholarship OSAA Athlete Scholar Margaret Moore OSAA Athlete Scholar Patricia Morgan OSAA Activity Scholar Kasey Mosher Delta Rotary Scholarship OSAA Athlete Scholar University of Oregon Diversity Scholarship Therese Murrell OSAA Activity Scholar Yvonne Ngo OSAA Athlete Scholar Senior Class Officer Award – Treasurer Daniel Nicholson OASSA Student of Merit: Fine Arts – Visual Michelle Nix Outstanding Yearbook Photographer of the Year Reed Norton Outstanding Yearbook Student of the Year Crystal Ordway Outstanding Child Development Student of the Year Victor Palma Emerald Empire Kiwanis Student Recognition Scholarship Joseph Park Outstanding AP U.S. History Student of the Year Grace Paterson OSAA Activity Scholar University of Oregon Dean’s Scholarship Kaitlyn Patterson OSAA Athlete Scholar Society of Women
Engineers Honor Award Kelsey Pemberton Outstanding AP European History Student of the Year Olivia Peters OSAA Activity Scholar Outstanding French Student of the Year Science Achievement Award in Biology 4.0 GPA Student Lisette Peterson OSAA Athlete Scholar Ouang Pham OASSA Student of Merit: Foreign Language OSAA Activity Scholar Outstanding Young Man Choir Student of the Year Justin Pierce OSAA Athlete Scholar U.S. Marine Corps Distinguished Athlete Award Cody Reinholz Male PE Student of the Year Kari Remboldt OSAA Activity Scholar Alex Rice Outstanding AP European History Student of the Year Joseph Roberts Outstanding Social Studies Student of the Year Justin Roberts Eugene Kiwanis Scholarship U.S. Marine Corps Semper Fidelis Award for Musical Excellence David Robinson 4.0 GPA Student Hannah Rosenberg Outstanding Spanish Student of the Year Ashley Ruderman ASB Officer Award – Treasurer OSAA Athlete Scholar OSAA Activity Scholar Jonathan Schoonhoven University of San Francisco Presidential Scholarship Marilena Schwaderlapp OSAA Athlete Scholar
the Talisman
Kelly Scoble OSAA Activity Scholar Whitney Simpson Outstanding Language Arts Student of the Year Outstanding Photography Student of the Year Outstanding Social Studies Student of the Year Samantha Smith ASB Officer Award – Activity OSAA Activity Scholar Sienna Stanley OSAA Athlete Scholar Katherine Steigleman OSAA Athlete Scholar Jonathan Stein Louis Armstrong Award OSAA Activity Scholar Thomas Stewart OSAA Athlete Scholar Alliz Strahon OSAA Athlete Scholar Peter Straka OSAA Athlete Scholar Andrew Stringfield OSAA Athlete Scholar University of Oregon Dean’s Scholarship Michael Sugar Outstanding Spanish Student of the Year Ben Sundberg OASSA Student of Merit: Social Science Science Achievement Award in Chemistry Jacob Swenson OSAA Athlete Scholar Heather Thomson OSAA Athlete Scholar Cari Tusek OSAA Activity Scholar Kelly Washburn Outstanding Yearbook Photographer of the Year Lindsey White 4.0 GPA Student April Wicklund OSAA Athlete Scholar
The Talisman apologizes for any missed awards or scholarships and would like to congratulate all of the hard-working class of 2008 seniors. You did it! W00t!
the Talisman
Entertainment
June 11, 2008
11
Bonjour Pierre
by Gracie Beaver
Comic Strip Tease
by Cassie Jahnke
Overheard in Sheldon’s Halls Take my sushi and run? How rude! oh, he’s a party squirrel now Black playdoh is for tiny emo kids He’s a vegetarian...that we know of I don’t care if you’re quoting Jesus! Hm. I seem to be missing my other suspender... Oh, it’s prom spelled backwards If I got bit by a hobo, I’d be pretty freaked out If you were attacked by a ferocious hula-hoop, you’d be in a bad mood too Apparently, he’s getting really comfortable walking around my house in his under underwear wear What’s this? An appetizer? There’s a turtle in there. He’s so dank. Is anyone else here afraid of mannequins? I don’t like her. Let’s make a chatroom about her. You can’t just insult a guy’s manhood like that!
B a c k p a g e -Beaver State of Mind-
Collection of little moments Graduating senior reflects of the events of high school: those good, bad, and indifferent by Gracie Beaver editor-in-chief I tried to start this reflection about four different times, and quite literally every time I came up with a theme, my final copy really sucked. Every failed attempt at organizing the last four years of my life into four paragraphs had the same error; I tried to loosely knit together memories into a broad green tapestry. The end result seemed full of holes, disjointed, unreal. Because really, high school from the broad sense is not something I care to reflect upon. The last four years of my life have ostensibly been filled with the social quagmires of feeling like an outcast, the torment of digging for school spirit that I could never find, and the hopeless attempt to figure out what on earth I was going to do with my life. But deep down, past the generic “high school” experience, these last four years
have been a series of memories, more of a scrapbook or a souvenir collection than a tapestry. Little moments: these are the brief bubbles of joy that float to the surface of the endless ocean of my teenage life and make the daily excursion up Sheldon’s green steps actually worth it. If I were to examine my collection of these little moments, I would find more smiles than frowns, however both were equally important in defining high school. For starters, I remember the first ever time I failed a test; this was in Dr. Volwerk’s College Now! (exclamation point definitely necessary) chemistry class. To this day, I can’t even look at the equation PV=nRT without growing slightly queasy. However, Dr. Volwerk’s astonishment at my big fat F, and his legitimate response to me (“Uhh…what happened here?”) ended up encouraging me to do better and push myself farther than I ever had. Obviously, though, failing a chem test was not the pinnacle of high school. The collection of moments diverges further into other categories. First, the Unforgettables. This includes hanging up posters of Stephen Colbert’s baby eagle around the school, becoming editor-in-chief of the Talisman (best thing ever!), and finishing the dreaded Freshmen Collaborative Project from Ms. Faunce’s college writing class. The
Unforgettables are shining beacons of encouragement, letting me know that I actually managed to accomplish something among all of the seemingly useless paper work. But finally, and perhaps this is the most important of all, Sheldon, there are the Throwaway moments that may seem small in size, but can turn a crappy day into something that mildly resembles a good day. Some of mine would include my conversations with Mr. Sanderson about Wikipedia and indie rock, joking around with my best friend about Batman in junior year English class, and of course, my daily conversations with Mr. Cantwell about my unhealthy intake of Taco Bell and Amp. I beg you Sheldon students, treasure your little moments as your real impression of high school. High school is not a single memory; it is a multitude of tiny experiences. Please don’t look at your Sheldon years as either good or bad; each finite and fleeting moment you have is an opportunity to learn, to change, to grow. Be subversive: don’t vote for class officers, and don’t go to unnecessary pep assemblies. Or, be excited: wear green to sporting events and take the time to find out when Sprit Week actually is. But no matter what you do, and no matter what you take away from my narcissistic nostalgic rant, remember that these are your moments, so make the most of them.
-7 Days-
The end is only the beginning Columnist captures the restless sentiment of the final full week of high school by Jordan Eddy assistant editor When I was thinking of ideas for my final sevenday jaunt into the unknown, I decided that I wanted to close the column off with a bang. I thought of things like living in a wheel chair, being “pregnant”, or going blind. I wanted to perform the hardest experiment I could think of. My eventual decision was basically a lame excuse to write one of those end-of-the-year reflections. But I don’t want to play with the nostalgic dialogue that this kind of article usually melts into. I’d simply like to tell all of you underclassmen out there what to expect during the last full week of high school. Being a single parent, a vegan and a drama kid for seven days was tough, but this has been one of the hardest weeks ever. As a single parent, I was faced with constant mental strain. It was hard to deal with the fact that I was responsible for three other people at all times. I had to keep
them happy and healthy, and it was mentally exhausting. The last week of high school is nothing like that. I have no homework, no finals and no responsibility. I haven’t looked at my trusty little planner at all. The lack of mental strain has translated into laziness, which has morphed into boredom, which has transmogrified into a continuously drowsy state. I nap a lot. When I went vegan, my body was tested. I was basically a very skinny cow—my day consisted of sitting around and munching on tasteless things. By the end of the week, I was physically exhausted. These days contrast perfectly from that experience as well. I eat a lot of sugary treats and I lie on couches. The final week doesn’t even connect with my experience in the Sheldon Theatre Program. During that week, I was an outsider looking in on a very tight group of people. Now I’m an insider in a group of people who will inevitably burst apart. So, why is the last full week so incredibly tough? I feel as if I’m caught between childhood and adulthood, hard work and play. I’ve reached the end of a short chapter, and I’m about to plunge into a much longer (and hopefully more interesting) one. The best and worst part? I’m so ready for it—which is why it’s so frustrating to have to wait for it to begin. Childhood is ending, and the only thing separating me from the start of a new life is… seven days.
Ashley Admire photo
It’s not 1988, but the 07/08 year has come to an end and a summer of outdoor fun awaits. W00t.
Return of Diary of a Rebel Mind The notorious Talisman alumna and eternal drama queen returns, older, wiser, and less tolerant by Deidre Jones guest writer Some of you might remember me, some of you may have just heard of me. Don’t worry; I won’t be around for long, because I am clearly much cooler than you. Okay, so maybe I’m just like you, with all my homework and sleep deprivation and crumbling social life. But I’m in college. Therefore, I am ultimately better. I’m not sure I understand why all you poor people like high school so much. I only assume you like it, otherwise there would be no, “OMG, liek, I’m going away and never coming back because I’m graduating, even tho I totally live four blocks away. LOL.” There would be no tears. There would be no stupid going away gifts. True, there are people who go away to a different state for college (if they go at all), some even a different country, and if that happens well, sucks for you. Then it’s
justified. But not so much for all those people who whined and complained about how much high school sucks and how much they hate the people and how much they hate the homework, and then they bawl on the last day like school was the best thing that ever happened to them. What is there to LIKE? High school is an over-glorified prison with fluorescent lighting (the food is enough evidence). For all of you who think college will be tons of parties and wonderful and simple, here’s a nifty little smack in the face: it’s a pain. It’s ten weeks at a time of figuring out how to manage your schedule, how to have a social life outside of school, how to deal with all the smokers (or the non-smokers), how to finish that project by this time and how to make it fit in that bag and crap I just realized I forgot this element and I need to write that paper and THAT assignment is due and I totally spaced it. And then you realize you barely have time to breathe, not enough time to eat, and you completely forget about sleep altogether because, hey, who needs that when they sell energy drinks at three dollars a can? You know why college kids are always broke? Because they spend all their financial aid on books and supplies, and whatever they MIGHT make at the job they MIGHT
have goes towards No-Doz, Monster, and 5-hour Energies, maybe even the occasional white chocolate mocha with seventeen extra shots of espresso. Extra sweet, of course. To be honest, I only miss high school for the workload. Yeah, I’ve got some friends still at Sheldon, but really, I don’t have time for them anymore. I barely have time for my boyfriend, and the only reason I see him is because he comes over and ends up staying for a week at a time because I don’t have the time, money, or energy to make him go back home. High school was about homework. Homework means an assignment or two a night per class that is due the next day. It doesn’t mean a fourweek project (per class) that will cause insomnia from sleep deprivation, or having constant stress trying to get it done so your “instructor” will give you a passing grade, or needing so many extra supplies that it sucks the money right out of your account like a vacuum. Now, really, I would LOVE to sit back and tell you that college life is perfect and easy and the instructors are all pretty cool and that you don’t really have to do that much to impress people. But I don’t think it would be nearly as fun as if I just threw the truth at you like a combustible bag of cow poo. Have fun. Suckers.