Talisman vol 51 iss 6 june 8, 2016 issue

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TALISMAN a student-edited newspaper

THE SENIOR ISSUE: “If only they had just one.”

Time Advice from seniors page 7 Sheldon High School

Summer plans page 11 vol. 51│iss. 6│June 8, 2016

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June 8, 2016

Sheldon

the Talisman

The cafeteria should have healthier choices Alexis Hall staff writer

Breakfast, lunch and dinner are the three essential meals of the day. Some students don’t even get two meals a day at home. It helps them get energy and gives them the nutrition they need, which keeps them alive. School lunches provide us with healthy standards set by the Food and Nutrition Services (FNS).

Some of the choices set, are not necessarily healthy or the desired flavored by choice. Since students consume as many as half their meals in schools, everything that the cafeteria serves has a big impact on our lives in the future.

Therefore, these-lesser-than desired choices begin to be a daily option offered in our schools.

Sheldon provides food choices for students daily. But they are served more than once a week. Our choices of food selections are very small. We’re given fruits and vegetables daily, but the entrée choices are limited. Most students choose from pizza, nachos, burritos, salads or burgers. There are always sides of tater tots.

Sheldon used to serve different entrees for lunch, but that has changed because of budget cuts and not enough people working in the cafeteria according to the front office. Most students interviewed regarding the food made comments such as, “the food’s alright,” or “we need more choices.” Junior Sabrena Saggaf said, “We need less greasy foods, and actual home cooked meals other than freezer foods. I would like to see changes next year.”

Freshman Ashley Bates said, “Some people don’t even eat because they don’t like what they serve; we have the same thing every other day. I think if we had different options like soups or pasta, that would be so much better. Every other day I eat pizza; that’s all they have that’s actually good.”

Photograph by Alexis Hall

This is an important discussion our school needs to have with students and staff. If none of the students are getting the nutrition they need, because they don’t like what is served, how are they supposed to work, stay awake, and be in class and pay attention without a full tummy? They need food, and a change should happen. A single granola bar is not enough to pass someone by ‘till lunch; more breakfast needs to be offered.

The school lunches should supply a variety of different choices. Nachos and cheese is not a healthy choice for a lunch at all. Having pizza instead of nachos is still not a very good healthy choice either. We need varieties of soups, sandwiches, pastas, plus different types of fruits, and vegetables. Instead of the school choosing what they want to cook for the month, how about the students choose what they should have. Perhaps we could look into this next Fall?

Sophomores Katie Testie and Mallora Tamasaka

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Sophomore Aaron Williams Photographs by Hayley Mercer

Sheldon

the Talisman

June. 8, 2016

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Sheldon offers a diverse array of clubs Harrison Nabors & Bretton Loyd Eugene editor & staff writer

Sheldon is a big school with a wide range of people walking its halls. The population consists of a variety of interesting people with their own agenda. A special part about Sheldon is the ability the students have to bring their own beliefs together. There are many different religious and ethnic groups that assemble on Sheldon campus and abroad. All in all, Sheldon is teaming with groups and organizations showing that our school is truly acceptable.

Students come together and practice their rights to assembly and speech, typically during lunch time. One of these congregations includes Youth Group members of the First Baptist Church which make up a large portion of the Irish student body. Students meet by the Sheldon Community Center during lunch times on Thursdays. Sophomore Jacob Gates said, “It’s a nice community and we learn to live, love, and lead like Jesus.” They provide Little Caesars pizza that is complementary; however they recommend a donation of a few dollars.

Sheldon also sports its own Jewish Student Union (JSU).

They meet Wednesdays during lunch in the lecture hall and do Jewish activities from playing “Who’s that Jew” to making “menorah sundaes” However, most kids there aren’t Jewish; “I go there because my best friend is the president and they have free food,” said sophomore Erika Moe. “I know everyone in the club well, for the most part.”

Sophomore Katie Winner added,

“I like going to JSU because it is fun to learn about the Jewish religion and the people in the club are very nice.”

JSU is a good example of how gathering with people of common interests can be interesting and be rewarding.

Black Student Union (BSU), another student congregation based on identity, is very historic; at least it has existed in the same iteration for five years. BSU is very common at schools, as it exists also at Churchill, North Eugene, and South Eugene High Schools. English teacher Sinde Fitz said, “I wanted to provide a place for kids who identify as African-American to have a safe place to be themselves…. I’ve traveled to other countries. I know

Members of the Jewish Student Union decorate cookies.

what it’s like to be on the outside. It’s exhausting!” The main activities of BSU at Sheldon are to provide students with insight into African American related topics in Oregon. “With more money, we eat pizza [during lunch], or go to Portland and see a theatrical production, or see Albina, a historically black community [in Portland].”

Even though School is a place for learning, it is also a place where we go to be accepted. Regardless of the dislikes and the likes, there is always a place where you belong. So whether you are Jewish, Christian, or just yourself, there is a place for you here at Sheldon High School.

Photo by Melissa Berry

Feminism vs. meninism Maya Dickinson & Rachel Barnhart senior pg 9 editors According to Google, feminism is “the advocacy of women’s rights on the grounds of political, social, and economic equality to men.” Feminism has been a longlasting idea, however, a new trend known as “meninism” is surfacing. Meninism first gained attention through social media sites such as Twitter and Tumblr, and is most popular among teenage boys and young men.

Definitions of meninism vary with both good and bad intentions, but the most popular view on meninism is that it is men’s mockery of feminism.

Among Sheldon High School students is feminist-activist Francesca Critelli. Junior Francesca Critelli said, “I strongly advocate for feminism because it helps further the rights for all genders, races, and sexualities, not just straight white women. Feminism is a

need in all cultures and aspects in life from ‘make me a sandwich’ jokes to female genital mutilation in Africa.”

Along with promoting the feminist message, Critelli has furthered her activism outside of Sheldon High School working with Senator Ron Wyden, Mayor Kitty Piercy, and organizations such as Planned Parenthood. Critelli also said, “[Feminism] helps men as well.

The stereotype that men shouldn’t cry or should always be tough and can’t like traditionally feminine things is broken down by the movement.” Like Critelli, Junior Callie Girard is also a feminist, and said, “I would call myself a feminist because I support equal rights for everyone and hope that women will be able to one day be treated fully as equals

“The meninism trend is stupid, and [its] followers are stupid.”

- Callie Girard

to men in our society.”

Both Critelli and Girard are opposed to the meninism trend, because of its degrading ideas. Girard said, “The meninism trend is stupid, and [its] followers are stupid.”

Critelli explained, “Meninists and their so- called movement perpetuates the idea that feminists aren’t accomplishing anything but whining. I’m not saying they don’t exist, but I’ve yet to see a meninist advocate for men’s rights yet. Most of them are too busy making rape jokes online.” There is a clear divide between feminists and meninists, sparking countless debates on social media.

Junior McKyna Reed opposes both feminism and meninism and said, “I feel like [feminism and meninism] just make people fight.”

Feminists and meninists continue to discourage the opposed, and promote their own beliefs. From feminists to meninists, to those who are not associated with either movement, there are an array of opinions among Sheldon High School students, which will continue to be shared through social media.

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June 8, 2016

Eugene

the Talisman

Students have limited school bus access Melissa Berry and Kenadie Kucinski Sheldon page 3 and page 2 editors Many people may notice that Sheldon only has a few school buses available for students to take. According to 4J school bus services, the 4J school district provides school bus services only for high school students who live more than 1.5 miles from a Lane Transit District (LTD) stop, and people who ride a school bus as part of their special education program. Many people may wonder why there are not school buses available for all students to take that may live closer to Sheldon.

4J school bus services encourages students at 4J high schools that live closer than 1.5 miles from a LTD stop or who do not have a special education program to walk, bike, or ride public transportation to school.

Sophomore Rachel Campbell said, “I think that a lot of students do need a bus to get to and from school because they do not have a car or their parents work.”

Students also may not have the extra money to pay for transportation via the city bus. School busses can also help kids who live too far away for walking to Sheldon. Luckily, under certain circumstances, some stu-

dents are eligible to receive free LTD bus passes.

The Sheldon parking lot is becoming more crowded with more parking passes being sold.

Some people may wonder if having school buses available for all high school students will make the parking lot less crowded with more students riding the buses instead of driving to school or getting a ride to school from parents, guardians, etc. Sophomore Daisy Chen stated, “I think that with more school buses, there might be a slight decrease of students who drive and park at school, but I don’t think it will make a significant change. I think that kids who have cars will want to drive themselves and park at school because they can arrive and leave whenever they want and not have to stick to a [school bus] schedule.

To me, driving myself and parking at school is the most effective for my schedule.” Most students that have a license and a car would most likely rather drive themselves and park at school

than ride a school bus anyway. Generally, people having the option to drive themselves is more convenient for their schedule.

Some people might think that it is not fair that school busses are provided for elementary and middle school students, but not high school students.

Sophomore Erika Moe said, “I think that is okay because a lot of high school students have cars or they walk. We don’t need busses so that every high school student can ride one because only half of them will actually ride the school bus. I think the elementary and middle schools need them more.” The fact the Sheldon does not have riding the school busses as an option for every student saves money. There are always alternatives to taking the school bus and high school students are old enough to figure out what that is.

Olympic trials on track for Eugene Isabella Bratland and Logan Mertz staff writers

Once again, the Olympic trials are coming to historic Hayward field, right here in Eugene. As the Olympics is the most unifying, prestigious, and astonishing sporting spectacle in the world, there is no place for the country’s best athletes to battle for a spot on the U.S. team than in Track Town, where our country’s best runners wow crowds and smash records. And the best part?

The Olympic trials bring our community together and improve many aspects of Eugene life.

The most notable things that the Olympic trial does are “bring more attention to Eugene” and “brings people [in the community] together,” says Hannah Stock, a Sheldon Cross Country and Track athlete. Although Eugene is a beautiful, active, and historic city, the country seems to overlook it as a great city of the U.S. However, once the Trials come around, the media has the opportunity to capture all of the things that make this city so great.

Locally, the trials help Eugene thrive as well. Eugene is obviously known as a running town, and so the Olympic trials is a time for the community to come together and celebrate the glory of running. And not only does our community want to celebrate it, but wants to further expand people’s awareness of its appreciation of athletics. To put in into better words, Erin Regali, Sheldon’s own Track Coach and former president for Oregon Track

Club, said “Olympic trials help our community strengthen the Track Town USA name for our community; the place to come in the U.S. for big track meets and performances.”

Not only is having the Olympic trials here in Eugene bring the community together and draws more attention to Eugene, but it also helps companies gain more business, such as Nike and Eugene running company. Eugene Running Company is not a sponsor at the trails but “we are teaming up with Nike and having a concept shop a couple of blocks from the trails,” and “it brings in good business” said the Eugene Running Company. Due to the fact that businesses are going to receive great benefits, and our city gets to see our country’s best athletes compete, it is easy to say that the Olympic trials is going to be a huge success.

Photo manipulation by Harrison Nabors

the Talisman

Senior

June 8, 2016

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Memories left behind but never forgotten Bailea Nance & Hayley Mercer senior page 8 editor & staff writer

The 2016 class is about ready to graduate and plan to move on to college or have other post high school plans. The class of 2016 will miss their friends and the memories they have had here at Sheldon. Senior Andru Johnson said, he will miss “sports, friends and the little things.” There are many things that the seniors will miss or have memories of doing, and even the ‘little things’ count. There are many great memories at Sheldon from classes to embarrassing moments and even crazy things

students have done. Many of the senior’s best memories are made at athletic events and prom. Johnson laughed and said, “The drinks and the snacks were the best part of prom.”

Like many other seniors, Johnson planned to skip on senior skip day and maybe head down to the coast.

Senior Taylor Bess also planned to skip on senior skip day. Bess said, “Maybe go camping somewhere down along the coast.” Bess will graduate with many fond memories of her time here at Sheldon. Bess has many great memories of the basketball games and of Mr. Irish. Bess has also participated in cross country and Cupcake Club; “Yummy cupcakes,” Bess said. Bess has many great memories like crazy things she’s done. “[I

once] jumped off a cliff in Canada,” she said. At prom she had a great time and the best part was her date; she said, “I almost got trampled on.”

It’s not just seniors who have great memories of each other, but also their teachers who have watched them grow and learn. Ms.Wenrich will miss the seniors especially the ones with whom she has shared laughs and stories with in her classes. Kim Johannsen remembers one time the senior ASB officers dressed up in togas at the Seaside, Oregon, dance. “It was pretty interesting,” Johannsen said while laughing. There are many great things to miss about high school and the people there. The 2016 class will remember and miss their time here at Sheldon and the people who taught them.

Seniors leaving a (master) piece of themselves behind Sam Lawson summer page editor Before graduation, some seniors like to make the most of their last few months in high school. One way seniors may make this happen is by beginning a senior project. One senior project at Sheldon this year is a mural being painted

by Emily Bolivar and Lexi Milton. Before the project started, the library hall didn’t have very much color to it, so Bolivar and Milton decided that it would be a perfect place to start their painting.

“Lexi and I both wanted to paint a mural before we graduate and it’s been a plan for quite a while, but we weren’t sure what we wanted to paint. We both adore Madame Barley and Le Petit Prince and thought [this mural] would be a perfect thing to leave behind,” Bolivar expressed.

Le Petit Prince is a beginner’s book for people who are trying to learn French.

Every day during fourth period in the hall both Bolivar and Milton are usually working on the mural.

Bolivar mentioned, “I think [painting the mural] is definitely more meaning-

ful doing it as a senior, but it would be super cool for anyone to put more beautiful stuff around the school.”

The first step in starting the mural was deciding what it was they wanted to paint. “Emily and I wanted to paint a mural together and we decided that we wanted to paint a Petit Prince themed mural for Madame Barley. We picked out a quote and some images from

the book and sketched out a rough draft, which we then submitted to Nina Herbst,” Milton explained. Bolivar and Milton went through an easy process of getting the mural confirmed before they started. “The quote means ‘It is only with the heart that one can see rightly. What is essential is invisible to the eye,’” Milton explained. The quote is supposed to be the main message the mural is trying to send.

Senior Grayson Kirkham is painting another mural

by Mr. Hahn’s and Mr. Brancato’s classroom.

“Nina asked if I would be interested in doing one [a mural] and told me to ask Mr. Brancato and talk about it,” Kirkham explained.

Kirkham first started painting this year and added, “I love doing art, so I said I would definitely try [painting the mural].” The mural Kirkham is painting sends a different message than Bolivar and Milton’s mural.

“Learning doesn’t have to be boring,” Kirkham claimed is the murals message.

The love of art and painting gave Bolivar, Milton and Kirkham the opportunity to share their passion with Sheldon. Painting a mural can be very meaningful to seniors. Adding color and culture to Sheldon is a great opportunity for any student.

Every day when you pass by one of the murals, hopefully you can admire the painting along with the message that is being sent.

Photo by Hayley Mercer

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Senior

Seniors’ post-high school plans Kaycie Bellman Emmet Hale David Libby Matthew Norton Melina Wadman

28 students

Rebekah Adams

97 students 46 students

Robert Bodine

Patricia Cagiao

Bennett De Long

Alexander Braziel

Taylor Bratton Tate Edmundon Jackson Johnson Nathan Mahaffie Kaitlyn Shauer Wyatt Wilcoxson

Ryann Baimbridge

Ethan Ferguson

Emily Carrera

Abigail Nelson

True LeCavalier Garrett Peters Jacob Shelton

Lauren Hamilton Samantha Melconian Brandon Nunley

Sophia Apgar Emma Peters

Erin Duncan

Allyson Crisp

Abram Tapia

Alexander Engstrom

Grant Schmaedick

Lily Moorhead

Lauren Kogutkiewicz

Kathryn Laing

Rebecca Kammerer Misikei Fuiava-Thomsen

Melissa Rice

Danielle Healey Jennifer Krause

Emily Kartub Jenna Kuehn

Alondra Mejia

Marin Radloff

Lizzy Verastegui Montero Stefano Verastegui Montero

Gap Year

Cecilia Zerr

Avery Housley Sophie Morosky

John Kim Emily Mayer

32 students

Ramey Cowman Bailey Dodge Alexis Olson

Hidetaka Hayashi

Harry Miller

Danyael White

Emily Potucek

Information courtesy of Naviance

24 students

Vocational School 25 students

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Senior

Advice from Sheldon seniors “Pass yo ur class es, be nice to your teacher s, up to oth and open e end up r rs, or you’ll egrettin g it.”

-Pai

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ore

“Don’t stress yourself out too much, because it’ll all work out.”

yann ge

Baimbrid

-Alondra Mejia

“Enjoy every moment of your senior year and don’t wish the year away.” -Itzel Valdivia t % effor 0 0 1 n e still e giv e v v ’ a u h o y d n a “If you do no one has t a h w , in ou. mistake a e ad at y d a m m e b is ht to ” -Dav . the rig f l e s r u en yo Not ev

ook

Glazebr

“Stay on track of homework and class assignments and ask teachers for help!!”

-Lina Cruz

“Don’t lo se a loser. W at being in at bein g a loser.”

-R

mess “Don’t your around o w first t ” ! years!

any -Britt Allard

“Learn fr om your mistakes ;d dwell on on’t them.”

-J

osh Mei

ners

esn’t matter.

“Popularity do ’ll be a great d it Just do you an ada Glass experience.” -J

e o hav s , t s a e lots s by f k e a o t g d t “I fun an oy every f o s t lo s. Enj e r usley u t o c i H p f y o r .” -Ave t n e m mo

“Do school activities!

Whether it’s theater, band, choir, sports, or any other club – you’ll be a part of a family and have a lot of fun.” -Emily

Bolivar ool te on sch a in t s a r nce proc “Do not life… [And] bala in e Honey work or i d d a M enly!” them ev

“Enjoy life, and live every day to the fullest, because time really does fly!” -Mady Sullivan

“[Just] as everyone else will tell you: don’t procrastinate.

But seriously, don’t.”

-Nalani Watkins

“If yo u too m get a job, u have ch becaus don’t work the re e work. st of you’ll y H o -Kayl ave fun for ur life to ee M now.” a

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Schools out! Time for school!!

Ayla Bussel co-editor-in-chief It’s that time of year again. The birds are chirping, the flowers are blooming, and seniors in high school are getting ready to graduate and move on to the next phase of their lives.

Along with prom, senior skip day, and numerous graduation parties comes the inevitable bittersweet feelings brought on by the end of the year. Some seniors will move onto four year colleges or universities, others will join the army or get jobs. But no matter what plans seniors have for post graduation, it can be a pretty difficult transition. Leaving everything they know to move onto something completely different is pretty nerve-wracking. Sheldon High School senior Alondra Mejia, who plans to attend Boise State University to study psychology and Spanish in the fall stated, “I’m scared of being far away from my friends and family and I’m scared of living without them.”

South Eugene High School senior Sam Perlman, who plans to attend the University of Oregon (U of O) to study music in the fall, said that he chose U of O for its proximity to home and because going to school in-state is cheaper than attending an out-of-state school.

Perlman added that he’s “nervous about not being able to deal with the large responsibilities that college requires and wasting a ton of money in the process.”

Some seniors, however, choose to go to school out-of-state for the adventure and excitement that new surroundings bring. Sheldon High School senior Melissa Rice, who plans to attend Boston College to study mathematics in the fall said, “I’m looking forward to the new people I will meet and to taking new courses that I know nothing about. I chose Boston College because it has outstanding academics, a beautiful campus, and it’s on the east coast which is where I was hoping to go.”

After seniors graduate from high school, they will begin a new chapter in their lives and embark on wild journeys. There are many exciting things to look forward to but the first few weeks after graduation can sometimes feel very daunting. The most important thing for seniors to remember as they go out into the “real world” is that it’s okay to make mistakes and to mess up.

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senior and staff letters

June 8, 2015

the Talisman

Engstrom Most students would have some difficulty trying to imagine having their parent as one of their teachers.

Maybe it’s just me, but having my dad as my teacher for the last two years has been one of the best parts about my experience at Sheldon. The atmosphere in class is a lot more laid back than my other classes because I’m more comfortable around my Dad than other teachers.Students like my dad because he’s outgoing, engaging, and likes to make his students laugh.

His charisma has definitely influenced my view on him being my teacher.

- Alex Engstrom

Savage Have you ever wondered what it would be like to have both of your parents come to school with you every day?

Well I get the privilege of experiencing that all the time.

Both of my parents work at the school, and I know that it seems like it wouldn’t be ideal because many people go to school to escape their families. All I can say is that I can’t complain; I really enjoy having both my parents working at the school. Sometimes for sure it can be awkward, but I wouldn’t have them anywhere else. I mean, it’s great for when I need to leave something in their office(s) and I never have to use a locker because I always have a place to store my stuff. Thank you Mom and Dad for being there to make high school easier.

- Noah Savage

Watching Noah over the past four years in high school has been an amazing reward. Especially the last year where I have been fortunate to work in the same school he attends.

Seeing him grow and mature into his own person has been a true joy. I truly appreciate how he has stayed true to himself and stayed strong in his beliefs. With the changes and influences (peer pressures) of his peers, he never wavered his own morals. I couldn’t be more proud of who he is and I am excited to see what the future has in store for him.

Thank you for coming by and seeing me in my office even when that’s not the cool thing to do!

- Athletic Secretary Kristi Savage I have not envied my son being in the position he’s in. I imagine as a teenager, having a parent be the police officer at your high school for four years can’t be ideal. Noah has always handled this in stride. We’ve always had an understanding to not mix my work world in dealing with situations at school, with his school world. I have always admired Noah’s ability to deal with any situation that comes his way. He has been a great son who follows his own path, yet still abides by the morals he’s been raised with in our household. I am a bit sad. I have worked as a police officer in the schools since Noah was in first grade, and that time is soon ending. I never thought I’d be here until he even reached high school, let alone his whole time at Sheldon. I am very proud of him and I can’t wait to see what he accomplishes in the future.

- Officer John Savage

Personally, it was a great joy and privilege to have Alex in my AP/IB Spanish Immersion Literature & Composition classes over the past two years. He was an excellent and outspoken student. For example, I was amazed at how he could improvise whenever he was not fully prepared for in-class assessments, and whenever I was asking too much of the class, he would advocate by saying: “Papááááá, ¿por quééééé?, ¿¿estás loco??”

Although I never told him, for political reasons I actually did grade him just a little harder than his S.I. peeps. We never had any classroom “issues” and for this I am truly grateful. Alex has been with these classmates since first grade, so they already knew his dad was “cray-cray” before day one. This was convenient and saved him a fair amount of embarrassment whenever the music started.

Finally, it was exciting to see Alex’s progress and his tremendous potential for future success. I am so proud of his many accomplishments, and feel extremely blessed to have had him in class at Sheldon!

- Spanish Teacher Chris Engstrom

Mertz I have loved having my mom work here at Sheldon. When I found out before freshman year that she was going to be the textbook specialist, I was actually excited and had no problem with it, unlike some high schoolers who I’m guessing would be embarrassed to see their mom every time they go to the library.

Whether it was picking up stuff in her office or just saying hi, my few minutes of talking to her most days were always a great encouragement to me. It was especially on days full of tests when getting to talk to her was nice, as she has always helped me maintain a positive attitude. I thank her for everything she has done, as she has always supported me.

- Logan Mertz

My son and I started our career at Sheldon High School together. While he was starting his freshman year, and his middle sister was starting her senior year, I was starting my infamous career as “The Texbook Lady.” My oldest had already graduated the year before I arrived, and I am sorry she missed her chance to go to school with her mom, as it’s a privilege that many kids do not get to experience. It’s one thing to drop your kids off at school, but quite another thing to walk in with them. Although on many occasions my son happened to choose a different path from mine as we entered.

As Logan was adjusting from middle school to high school, I was learning how to tame my exuberance when I would catch a glimpse of him or one of his friends in the hallway. I tried to fight the desire to ask his teachers how he was doing in his classes, and I admit that I sometimes failed. I also needed to be reminded that not everyone knew I was his mom and that it looked weird if I put my hand on his shoulder when I came up to visit him in the library. My dad would sometimes come to eat lunch with me, and on those days, Logan was sometimes lucky enough to have someone ask him, “Was that your grandpa I saw at the coffee cart?”

But let’s remember, having a mom at school had its perks as well. My office space was a great place to drop off cross country and track bags. My desk drawer held gum, snacks and maybe a dollar or two here and there. But best of all, Logan could take my cool “Mom Van” and drive it off campus. On one occasion or two, I went out after work to drive home to find that my car had gone missing.

Next year will be different for both of us for sure. My husband and I will officially be empty nesters. The last of our three children will have moved on from the halls of Sheldon. But I will still be here with many fond memories to hold dear!

- Textbook Specialist Carrie Mertz

the Talisman

senior and staff letters

Phillipo

Johnson Most students wouldn’t enjoy having their father at the same school as them for their four years of high school. I find that to be in no way the truth; not only was I lucky enough to have my father just be a teacher at my high school, he was also my football coach during my years at Sheldon. He has kept me in line, been there for me when I needed him with either a school or athletic matter, and just been a great support and made my high school experience much more enjoyable.

I believe it to be due to the fact that we both (he in particular) treated it as a normal occurrence to see each other so much and I will always be very thankful for the time we shared. - Jackson Johnson JackI’d like to thank you for the past four years at Sheldon. As a dad/teacher, it’s been fun to watch you take charge of your own education. You have challenged yourself with tough classes, yet you have maintained balance with an active social life. It always makes my day when I get to interact with you at school As a coach, it’s been awesome to see you turn yourself into a quality athlete.

You’ve gone from being a role player in football to a first team all-state player.

In baseball, you’ve become a key cog to our statewide success. You always seem to play your best when the “lights are brightest,” which is the sign of an outstanding player. Even as you improved as a player, you never lost sight of the fact that “TEAM” is more important than individual accolades.

Not sure what I’m going to do without you here next year, but I will manage.

Good luck at Western Oregon. Looking forward to coaching you one last time in the Les Schwab Bowl in June.

I love you Jack, Dad

- Math Teacher Lane Johnson

I have two parents who work at Sheldon High School and have had the opportunity to take classes from my dad and TA for my mom. Most people think that it would be weird to have a parent as a teacher. It really isn’t. Going into freshman year I wasn’t scared at all of the “big” upperclassmen, because I knew them already because of who my parents are. Freshman year I was a TA in the scheduling office with my mom. This experience was wonderful. I got to be around a friendly face whom I knew, everyday. It allowed me to make new friends: Avery, Olivia, and Wyatt. It was nice having a place to hang out and work on my school work.I have had many classes with my dad. He is a very entertaining guy. To finally have a class with him was a real delight. I felt that he was actually harder on me than he was on other students. However, it was nice having class with him because I wasn’t afraid to ask for help.

I excelled in his classes and took a greater interest in the subject.

- Ryan Phillipo

Being part of your child’s education can either be a positive or negative experience. For me, it truly has been a positive one as well as an honor. From participating in reading groups and recess supervision in elementary school to having you be an office aid at Sheldon, I have been able to remain active in your educational experiences. While many children might not appreciate having their parents as involved in their lives, you have graciously allowed your dad and me to inundate yours. You have the gift of recognizing when the “mom hat” was on versus the educator, which has allowed the parent/child in education dynamic to work. It really has been a dream come true being able to work in the same building while you receive your schooling. I can honestly say that it has been one of the best experiences for me and I will cherish the time that we have spent together.

- Scheduling Coordinator Michelle Phillipo Since 2005, I have taught other people’s children. I always thought about how great it would be when I would finally have a chance to work with my own sons. That dream came true in the fall of 2011, your freshman year. I remember feeling a bit nervous about embarrassing you in front of your friends as I have a tendency of sticking my foot in my mouth by saying too much. It must have been hard for you to not be able to escape this whirlwind of craziness you call “dad.” To my astonishment, you were just like the other students. The only exception is that our conversations continued when we got home. I know that I would not trade our time at school together for anything.

I have had the opportunity to spend a unique amount of time interacting with you during the day as you grew from a boy to a man. It has been a true pleasure and I would not change it for the world.

- Tech Teacher Les Phillipo

June 8, 2016

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Hahn GRADUATION/RETIREMENT: A ROSE BY ANY OTHER NAME? Well graduates, good to see that hopefully all of you are matriculating on time, in front of family and friends and are looking to a future that is filled with expectations. For myself, there is also a matriculation of sorts. After eighteen years at Sheldon and twenty-two years in education, I am retiring from the regular practice of teaching. So we go out together so to speak, both of us looking for that next challenge. Some of my path is already a bit proscribed; nevertheless there is still a pathway beyond being old as dirt. For you, there is that long open highway of promise, setbacks, accomplishments, challenges. Whew! In terms of advice from me, there is not much else that you should not have already heard a thousand times from parents, counselors, teachers and so forth.

You know the drill: make more of yourself, get a good education, don’t waste time, don’t forget to watch that vital bus safety video, be all you can be. (I borrowed that last one from the Army or Marines; I get them confused).

It’s interesting folks, when you retire, you kinda’ get the same drill. What are you going to do? Are you going to get another job? Do you have plans? You can’t retire without a plan! I understand, fellow graduates. Our society has expectations that are constantly put on us by well-meaning types, no matter how old you are.

I cannot account for any unique characteristics here that make such concerns especially American, but this mindset does in part, help describe our anxious culture. The great American historian Stephen Ambrose touched on this when he was drawing comparison between Gen. Custer’s white American culture and the Sioux war chief Crazy Horse’s culture. To paraphrase, he said Custer and those like him were always in a state of being somewhere else, and Crazy Horse, well, he just wanted to be. So, be sure to temper society’s expectations with your own understanding of what is hot air and what is not.

One thing that is true, graduation is when advice comes fast and furious. And giving advice to young adults is a tough road in these circumstances. It is after all, your lot in this human drama called life to be headstrong and not listen to us old timers. Perhaps if we saw each other on the same road at one brief moment in time?

Let’s give it a try.

American culture is after all rife with expressions for every situation. Personally, I think modern culture has in large part pushed them to the wayside because they are so twentieth century. Too bad, they would make a great app!

Why? Well, because a stitch in time DOES save nine and all that glitters is NOT gold! So with apologies to Poor Richard, here’s a few of mine. Fellow grasshoppers, there are many paths to take. Make sure you go down the one most suited to you for all the rights reasons, and never look back and say coulda’ woulda’, shoulda’. Carry your youthful enthusiasm close to you for the rest of your life. Give people the benefit of the doubt. Don’t buy into the hype. Let the buyer beware. Don’t rise to the bait. Do question authority when it needs questioning and like Bob Dylan said, don’t follow leaders. (Not always sure about that last one, but anyway.) Oh and remember what Twain said: obey your parents, at least when they are present. Well, I got those out.

As for our collective journey, may all success be with you always. If you happen to see me say hi, as I will in kind, and remember that sometimes we forget names, so give us a break. Don’t forget to support public education and realize that whatever your experience in high school, it was always and is always done with the best of intentions. The preparations needed for this modern world get tougher all the time, so try to understand. Peace.

A Fellow Traveler.

- History Teacher Herbert Hahn

10

Variety

June 8, 2016

the Talisman

Do you know where your clothes come from?

Illustration by Gracie Thompson

Kobe Mitchell staff writer As humans we all wear clothes. However, some believe that they must have the most extravagant expensive clothing they can buy. Does anyone know the deep origins of the clothes they wear? Around the world, businesses use underpaid workers for nearly free labor, and not just for clothes. Apple is rumored to be a secret contributor to the sweatshop industry, even being reported on by CNN and BBC. Sophomore Cade Stubbs does not currently have a job but will this summer. Stubbs says he spends $200-500 a year on name brand clothes such as Nike and Under Armor. Stubbs currently owns around ten pairs of shoes which sound about right for a basketball player his age, but he said he has sometimes paid $200 for a pair of shoes! Stubbs’s lifestyle is that of an average American teen that spend a lot of money to look good, because that seems like what teens have been doing for generations.

Retail worker at Valley River Mall Carly Grove said, “Sweatshops are closer than you think some are in the states and not just for big businesses either. Some of those kickstarter projects are often turned into small sweatshop businesses.” Grove said, “I buy my clothes from most anywhere. I love to mix-and-match items and accessories for the best look, yet sometimes the idea of sweatshops ruins new purchases for me.” Grove is a strong believer in equal rights and is sad to see how other third world countries treat manufacturing workers.

Freshman Griffin Zerr agrees with Stubbs in saying that he believes sweatshop workers get paid almost nothing every day. Yet Zerr brought up an interesting idea, “I believe most sweatshop workers are children.” This is somewhat true for third world sweatshops and even sweatshops rumored to be in the U.S.! Zerr also buys mostly Nike attire but stated, “I have heard of Nike being a main contribution to the sweatshop problem, and Apple as well. Even though it is terrible it sounds like a reasonable assumption.”

The clothes we wear define us, they set trends, and they show how unique we all are. It is sad to think what we wear can be so corrupt. The world we live in is cold and cruel and there are some battles we cannot win, ok there is a chance that stopping sweatshops cannot be one we wins. As sad as it is, we rely on sweatshops for the devices we use and the clothes we wear which can be corrupted by evil people looking for a lasting buck without losing much. The world is so big that beyond our primary life there are happenings on foreign soil that we cannot control, yet in life it can even be debated what control we have on anything, but can this be one of them? If we pay attention to where we buy our clothes and look into where they are made we could put those businesses that use sweatshops.

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ti s e u q d o i r e p e e s: that is the fr

Brady Hazelton & Tyler Coombs staff writer Everyone looks forward to having a free period. However, there are negatives that come with it. Not having more than one free period can make you miss out on playing sports. Also, missing out on credits can hurt someone’s academic goals, but having a free period is not always negative. Sophomore Cassidy Littleham said, “I have a free period so I work on homework and have more time to study for upcoming tests.”

One of the many other ways that you can take advantage of your free period is to get more hours in to your after school job. Sophomore Jonathon Kemple said, “I have 4th and 5th free so that I can work longer at my job at Sheldon Parks which gives me more time to make money and makes my parents happy that I have something to do after school.”

Although there are people who make good use of their free period to be productive, there are also those who decide to take a nap or play on their phones. Sophomore Aidan Mcvay said, “I have 2nd free and I get absolutely nothing done. I didn’t even request for one, it was just on my schedule.” Most people with free periods use them to have a break from work for an hour and just relax without having to worry about being productive.

Summer

the Talisman

June 8, 2016

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Senior summer trips Jack Forrest & Gracie Thompson senior editor pg 5 & variety editor pg 10

A common tradition among graduating seniors is to partake in an adventurous vacation to start off their summer. It’s an excellent way for seniors to celebrate all their hard work and reflect on all of their accomplishments of the past four years. It also serves as a reward for all the rigorous tasks they have had to complete over the years.

Some seniors believe this trip is a necessity, while others may feel the need to stay home and relish their last few months before pursuing their new lives, for most, as college students.

Senior Josiah Darland said, “I am going to backpack through Iceland after I graduate. It’s a beautiful place with the Northern Lights, glaciers, hot springs, volcanoes, and waterfalls.” Darland also stated, “Taking a senior trip is a good way to break away and gain a new life experience.”

Senior Emma Combs said, “I’m going to Hawaii with some family friends. I’m excited to just relax and swim.”

Combs also stated, “Senior trips are important because they celebrate all we’ve accomplished in high school.”

Senior Claire Leach said, “I’m going to Thailand. We are going to travel all around Thailand and visit an Elephant sanctuary. I’m also excited to experience a new culture.”

Experiencing new things while still in high school is imperative because wherever these seniors go next, they will be faced with new challenges.

Taking a senior trip may or may not be important to some, but it is an excellent way to escape reality before beginning their next phase of life.

Getting in shape for summer Cassidy Logan & Hayden Brooke staff writers Sheldon parent Lacy Prevost has a definition for looking good for summer and getting fit. Lacy said that “working out is to get in shape and feel better about herself, to gain confidence. Looking ‘good’ for summer is to look good in shorts and swimsuits without having to feel self conscious.”

Most people start working out as a New Year’s resolution. Prevost works out in a gym two times daily, once in the morning at 4:00 a.m. and at 7:00 p.m. Lacy goes five days a week and occasionally on weekends.

Working out is mainly to look good for vacations, Lacy said.

Diets are a good way to lose weight because it’s 70% of weight loss and on top of working out twice every day it increases weight loss greatly. The best way to diet is to limit calories and drink lots of water.

Most people procrastinate and wait until the last minute to get in shape. More people don’t complete their goals than do. Usually people stop working out after summer until the new year begins. Then a lot of

people don’t accomplish their goals and become upset. Working out for summer and accomplishing her goal doesn’t always go as planned, but she loses a good amount of weight. Having a workout buddy helps because it helps Lacy stay motivated. Establishing a routine helps to complete goals.

Sheldon parent Deanne Herman has been on the Adkins diet for two years now and also exercises daily and she has lost a tremendous amount of weight. Herman said, “Working out is very effective and is also a fun way to lose weight. I go on daily jogs around my neighborhood.” She stated that she works out to get in shape for summer vacations and activities. Herman enjoys working out for fun and also reaching her goal of weight loss. She said, “I am losing weight and I will reach my goal for my vacation I go on in July.”

People said that working out is to make yourself feel better about how

you look. It is to get healthier, but also to get in shape. People lose weight not just for vacations, people lose the weight to improve their lifestyle. Diets are very effective, but people don’t always need to be on a diet. It’s okay to eat a little junk food here and there.

A good way to lose weight is to watch your calorie count. Working out is a good way to lose weight for summer but don’t kill yourself doing it, take a break every once in awhile. Maybe even workout every other day. A lot of people fail at reaching their goals, but even achieving half of the goal is great. A good time to start working out is in April, so it gives enough time to achieve the goals people set for themselves.

Illistrations by Gracie Thompson

Run by students, for students.

Managing editor & co-editor-in-chief Ayla Bussel Senior page 6 & 7 editor & co-editor-in-chief Sam Fox Sheldon page 2 editor Kenadie Kucinski Sheldon page 3 editor Melissa Berry Eugene page editor Harrison Nabors Senior page 5 editor Jack Forrest Senior page 8 editor Bailea Nance Senior page 9 editors Rachel Barnhart & Maya Dickinson Variety 10 editor & artist Gracie Thompson Summer & social media editor Sam Lawson Photographers Alexis Hall & Hayley Mercer Staff adviser Greg Cantwell Staff writers Isabella Bratland Hayden Brooke Tyler Coombs Brady Hazelton Bretton Lloyd Cassidy Logan Logan Mertz Kobe Mitchell

cover photo: Hayley Mercer back grelfie: Sam Fox

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