Wednesday, June 1, 2016
2700 NW Glencoe Road, Hillsboro, Oregon ○ Volume 36, Issue 3
Arts. Music. Glencoechella A new event will showcase artists and musicians this Friday
by JOHNNIE WORKMAN
S
izzling guitar strings with crankedup amplifiers. The pungent aroma of tortillas and burritos. A rainbow of color everywhere the eye rolls. Call it Glencoechella. Glencoe’s student council is introducing this new event, modeled after the successful music festival, Coachella, held annually in Indio, California. Open to anyone who would like to attend, the event will be held on Friday from 5-8 p.m. in the fields in front of Glencoe. Glencoechella gives students a chance to display their art or talent. “There will be no boundaries...everyone and everything is included,” said Activities Director Butch Self. Early in the evening, junior Lucas Strelchun will be DJ’ing on the Glencoechella stage. “I am really excited and hyped for the festival,” Strelchun said. “Most local clubs don’t like doing paperwork for an underage performer so I’m glad that Glencoe has given me the opportunity to share the love of music with everyone there.” Later, the finals for the Battle of the
Bands will be held on the Glencoechella stage. The K-Pop Club will also be performing a few of their Korean song and dance covers on the main stage at Glencoechella, including “My Lady” by EXO and “One of These Nights” by Red Velvet. “We want to show everyone what we do,” said Ana Sally Gonzalez, president of the K-Pop Club, “because we love Korean culture.” Gonzalez said the club will also be accepting donations to help raise money to send K-Pop Club to KCON (Korean CON) in Los Angeles later in June. The student band “The Garrisons” will perform, and junior musician Jared Gaskin will also be featured. Many artists will be showcasing their artwork. Artists include senior Emily Stonier, junior Jessica McLaury and 2015 graduate and art student Kelli Groves. College and career counselor Jennifer Fields will be displaying and selling vintage jewelry. Senior Hannah Ahluwalia said the idea for Glencoechella was developed last year when she was talking to her friends. While they were talking about the music festival in California, they discussed the idea of do-
Illustration by ANAND KAILASAM ing the same thing at Glencoe for a spring activity and calling it “Glencoechella.” Ahluwalia loved the idea and took it to leadership which agreed that it sounded like a fun way to celebrate the arts, recognize Glencoe’s talented students and
end the 2015-2016 school year with a fun, memorable event. Ahluwalia and the leadership program hope this can become a well-known and fun Glencoe tradition for future generations to enjoy.
Your 2016-2017 ASB officers The inside scoop on the ASB officers elected for the 2016-2017 school year.
by MIRANDA DAVIS
Photos by NIC WELTY Emily Smith- Secretary Q: What do you have to say in response of being elected? A:“I am always open to hearing feedback about our events, and I would love to receive suggestions about ways we can improve them.” Q: What is something unusual about you? A: “I like to listen to rap and eat taco sauce while driving.”
Ashley Fenner- Public Relations Director Q: What do you like about Glencoe? A: “I love how spirited we are! We could outcheer any school any day.” Q: What will make you a good ASB officer? A: “I am creative and approach situations differently than most people.”
Ryan Hall
Kelsey Daley- Treasurer Q: What is an idea you have for next year? A: “Bringing back a winter dance, but this requires all of the students to come!” Q: What do you have to say in response to being elected? A: “THANK YOU! I promise to do my very best in making the school a better place!”
Ally Hedges
Ashley Fenner Jared Gaskin Emily Smith Tara Martin Kelsey Daley
Ryan Hall- Historiographer Q: Why did you run for ASB? A: “Back in freshman year, I had a friend who encouraged me to run for class council. At the time I felt like an outsider and through his help I made it on. I wanted to run so I can support people like he supported me in my dreams.” Q: What are you excited for? A: “I see it as an opportunity to make games more than just watching a game, but interactions with the crowd, like Jam the Gym and Homecoming. I’m excited to work with people and see the happiness that comes from when others succeed.”
Tara Martin- Public Relations Director Q: What are you most excited for? A: “Helping plan the big events, like Prom and the Canned Food Drive” Q: What do you plan to do through ASB? A: “I want a more unified student body, and I plan to do it by increasing use of social media, polls, and events that interest everyone.”
Ally Hedges- Vice President Q: What things about you many students do not know? A: “I’m a lifeguard, and I love brownies a lot.” Q: What do you plan to do after graduation? A: “I plan to go to college either in Oregon or Montana. I hope to be able to come back to Glencoe and help coach track or cross country.”
Jared Gaskin- President Q: What do you plan on accomplishing as ASB President? A: “Implementing a standardized system by which students can voice their concerns to leadership formally” Q: Why did you run for ASB? A: “I want to further my development as a student leader and I believe that I can represent the entirety of the student body
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Feature
Wednesday, June 1, 2016
CrimsonTimes
by JULIA SHERWOOD
‘I want it now’
Instant gratification has become a dominant part of American society, but people are rewarded in the long run when they exercise willpower by EMILY SMITH
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ere you upset when you finished the 11th season of Grey’s Anatomy and could not immediately start the 12th? Or, were you unable to resist the urge to eat just one more cookie? You are not alone. The “I want it now” mindset has become extremely common in America. Despite the fleeting gratification, such a mindset can have bad longterm impacts. Luckily, it is never too late to improve your willpower. Psychology teacher Lisa Pearson defines instant gratification as an instantaneous reward; she says most people receive some form of instant gratification every day. Marketing teacher Kyle Tolzman said instant gratification has become an integral part of our society. “Our society is built on instant gratification,” Tolzman said. “High credit card limits, the ability to take out loans for cars we can’t afford, most successful businesses taking credit cards—[it all contributes].” Tolzman said Americans can get the items they want nearly the minute they start wanting them, and so they have no incentive to wait. Instant gratification can be addictive, according to Tolzman, and is extremely prevalent among millennials. Pearson said instant gratifica-
tion activates the pleasure receptors in one’s brain. Our society has developed a sort of “addiction” to this feeling of immediate reward, according to Pearson. A study was conducted by Duke University professor Terrie Moffitt and her colleagues regarding willpower and the desire for instant gratification in a group of children born in 1972 and 1973. It started with a simple test of the willpower of five-year-olds. Each child was left alone in a room with two cookies and told not to eat them. Some were able to wait, but others could not resist the temptation. The researchers tracked their progress and checked in with them again about 30 years later. The results were shocking. Children who had shown less self-control at the age of five were more susceptible to diseases, high blood pressure, and weight problems. They also performed more poorly in school and were more likely to have made unhealthy decisions, like smoking. Counselor Matt Steele said he has noticed that many students struggle with self-discipline. “Many students are so used to getting what they want right away that it affects their ability to set long-term goals which require the hard work, effort and discipline that will pay off in the long run,” Steele said. Lack of willpower can yield
serious complications. However, there is no need to worry—according to Pearson—it is never too late to start improving your willpower. “Think of developing willpower like developing a skill,” Pearson said. “If you want to practice willpower, take small steps that will help you develop better habits in the areas you would like to improve. Once these small steps become a habit, push yourself to create a new boundary.” Steele has a similar opinion on improving willpower. He believes students must choose to put themselves in situations that model the ones they may encounter in real life. This way, if they want to be successful, they are forced to set long-term goals. “Willpower, to me, is the same thing as discipline,” Steele said. “Students wishing to develop willpower need to put themselves in situations where a long-term goal can be set and [be] realistically achievable.” Willpower and long-term goals are closely linked. If a high school student finds willpower difficult to develop, it should not come as a surprise. According to Pearson, it is easier to delay instant gratification after one’s prefrontal cortex is fully developed at age 25. Pearson still recommends getting an early start, because after all, practice makes perfect.
Senior Sunset Wednesday, June 8th 8pm at the Glencoe Track End your last day of high school on a high note and enjoy the sunset, food, drinks, and bond with your class. Bring your yearbooks!
CrimsonTimes
Wednesday, June 1, 2016
College dropout rates
Feature
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The United States has the highest college drop-out rate in the industrialized world by LUKAS HANSON
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hen students head to college, they are investing in the promise of a bright future. However, almost 30% of all college students in the United States drop out after their first year. This country has the highest college dropout rate in the industrialized world, according to the report, “Pathways to Prosperity,” by the Harvard Graduate School of Education. Multiple factors contribute to this problem. The key difference between college and high school is the type of coursework, according to Jennifer Fields, Glencoe’s college and career counselor. “College courses are much more critical-thinking based and have deepened content,” Fields said. “High school is more like a [brief] survey of a subject. There is a lot more reading and writing in college.” College freshmen lacking in math, reading and English skills must take remedial classes before they can take regular college courses, according to an April article in the Washington Post. These classes cost the same amount as regular courses and take just as long to complete, but do not count toward a college degree. The chance of succeeding while taking remedial classes in college is dismal. About 75% of all students who are required to take remedial courses never graduate, according to www.collegeatlas.org. Financial difficulties also contribute to America’s high college dropout rates. Six of every 10 college drop-
30% of college freshmen don’t make it past their first year
Will I make it?
infographic by REBECCA DAN outs out received no financial aid from their parents, according to the report, “With Their Whole Lives Ahead of Them” by the research group Public Agenda. Six of every 10 college graduates got help from their parents in paying tuition, according to the report. The main reason 56% of dropouts left college was because they could not work and go to school at the same time, according to the report. Although countless strategies can help students prepare for college, AP classes are a popular method of preparation. AP Human Geography teacher Sami Hayden recommends the courses since they can impart helpful strategies to college-aspiring students. “Students can prepare for college by taking advanced level coursework,” Hayden said. “Stu-
dents who succeed in these classes are better suited for college. Time management, identifying critical information and good study habits are all important skills for college.”
About 75% of all “students who are re-
quired to take remedial courses never graduate
”
From a college professor’s standpoint, incoming students must have a specific array of knowledge and skills to succeed. “[College students] must have knowledge of the resources their college provides, the skills their classes will require and the attitudes required to be academically
successful,” said Drew C. Appleby, PhD, on the American Psychological Association website. However, some important skills needed for college cannot be explicitly taught. Some of the most essential skills for college are collaboration, communication and problem-solving, according to a May 2014 U.S. News article. Glencoe 2015 graduate Marcus Trinidad said that understanding the difference between a hobby and a passion is essential to picking a major in college. “A hobby is something that is done for fun, and a passion is something that someone is willing to put [. . .] the time, the effort, the blood, and the tears [into],” Trinidad said. “Once students separate [. . .] the two, it becomes a lot easier to see what careers [. . .] follow that passion.”
Students who face unexpected academic adversity in college should seek help, according to Sarah Seeborg, a Portland State University admissions counselor. Many colleges offer academic assistance in the form of tutoring, campus study groups and other resources. “There are so many resources,” Seeborg said. “Academic advising, disability resources and tutoring on campus to [are there to] support students, but students have to advocate for themselves. Understand your limits. Challenge yourself appropriately with your course load.” College is a demanding experience, both financially and academically. If they wish to succeed in college, high school students must understand these challenges and approach them well prepared.
Stop over-stressing about testing Big changes which were made to the SAT in October may make testing easier Taking test may make students want to run for cover, but there are new changes being introduced to the SAT that will have them jumping for joy. These changes include the following. The top score (which has been in place since 2005) is being reduced down from 2400 to 1600. There is no longer going to be any penalty for wrong answers. There will be more relevant vocabulary tested on the exam that is being used in college, therefore better preparing students who choose take that path. There will being few choices on questions. There will be much more time for each section of the SAT. There are more graphs and charts being placed in the test.
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Feature
Wednesday, June 1, 2016
CrimsonTimes
Преодоление барьеров For Russian immigrants Sofia and Kseniia coming to the United States last May has been full of challenges and new oppurtunities
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by RYAN VANDOMELEN
ard to read, right? It means “overcoming the barrier” in Russian. That is exactly what Sofia Kurilova and Kseniia Kurilova faced every day when they first moved here last May. Living the life of an immigrant is a challenging experience that takes a lot of courage. The Kurilova sisters have made progress even with the big differences between Tolyatti, Russia and Hillsboro. Life in Tolyatti was very simple, even with its massive population of 720,000. Every day would begin at 7 a.m. with a breakfast of buttered toast before the Kurilova sisters would make their five-minute walk to school. Their school didn’t have a name but a number -- 10. The sisters had five different classes every day Monday through Saturday. School 10 is home to 700 students. The schools in Russia have a different structure. According to Kseniia, “The Russian schools don’t have different schools like high school and middle school, instead our school would have first grade to 11th grade.” Tolyatti has hundreds of public schools to serve its massive population -- and a shortage of school buses. Their school mostly focused on math-
Sisters Sofia (left) and Kseniia (right) Kurilova ematics and science. Students have no choice in what classes they take. School life in Tolyatti is very structured, since students do not have a variety of classes and the same 20 students stay together all day, from first grade to 11th grade. While they enjoy their ability to choose their own classes here at Glencoe and meet lots of people, they miss the close friendships they would have with the same 20
photo by NICOLAS WELTY
students. One way they would make friendships was their participation in extracurricular activities. For Sofia it was volleyball; Kseniia practiced the piano for two years with photography on the side. At Glencoe, the biggest challenge in learning English, according to Sofia and Kseniia, has been pronunciation and writing. But Kseniia said that Americans tend
to want to help more and reach out than people in their old town. According to Delina Burggraf, the English development teacher, in addition to becoming proficient in English, the sisters must also complete all credit requirements in English. “Our international students have to complete every single one of the graduation requirements to get a diploma,” Burggraf said. Yet they have continually defied the changes and challenges their new home brings, leaving Burgraff optimistic about their future here. “It has been a pleasure working with Sofia and Kseniia,” Brugraff said. “They have a lot of determination and a commitment to succeed.” Outside of school Kseniia enjoys photography and music. Sofia enjoys drawing and music. They also have both enjoyed the natural wonders of Oregon, particularly the waterfalls. In the future, Kseniia hopes to become a chef. Sofia shares the same hope; however, she is not sure what career she wants to pursue. Even though they miss their friends and home, both believe that the United States is still a place of opportunity for immigrants to live the American Dream.
Understanding the Autism Spectrum As she learns about her own diagnosis, Danielle Wright* hopes for increased understanding of the strruggles faced by those with autism
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by MAYA AGUILAR
efore she learned how to control her tone and volume of voice, Danielle Wright* was bullied for being too outspoken. Even today, she still experiences harsh words and looks when she speaks in class. Wright processes the world differently than many of her classmates. “I don’t recognize a difference,” Wright said. “Other people notice, but I don’t. My sense of normal is different.” Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) affects the way people perceive the world and interact in social situations. Wright maintains a routine and dislikes straying from it without previous knowledge. She prides herself on being precise and exact, often researching a subject extensively. No two people with ASD are the same. High functioning people with ASD do not inherently look different from neurotypical (“normal”) people, but have traits that set them apart in their interactions with other people. A person’s traits can range from very severe to relatively mild. Individuals are not equally affected by ASD, according to Jennifer Burger, student services department coordinator. She said there is a common saying in the autistic community that reflects this insight. “‘If you know one perosn with autism, you know one person with autism,’” Burger said. ASD affects every person differently, making it even harder to diagnose and recognize. After living 17 years without a diagnosis, Wright is seeking one now. While she is not sure she will get the diagnosis, Wright is hoping to get some type of support. Because her family knows what ASD is like, she has not previously felt the need for a diagnosis. She has always felt the support she needed within her family. According to Wright, her parents allowed her to grow out of her comfort zone at her own pace. Instead of forcing her to maintain eye contact, they understood that that made her uncomfortable. “My parents allowed me to come into things naturally,” Wright said. The cause of autism is not known, but in recent years more people have been diagnosed with ASD. According to Burger, this is most likely due to being able to accurately diagnose ASD.
“The numbers used to one in 300-400. Now it’s about one in 100,” Burger said.
If you know one person with “ autism, you know one person with autism ”
ASD is 4.5 times more prevalent in boys (one in 42) than in girls (one in 189), according to the Centers for Disease Control. Wright said that boys with autism are not taken care of by their peers the way girls are. “When you’re younger, girls will take you under their wing and teach you how to “pass” [for “normal”], which happened to me,” Wright said. Being medically diagnosed and getting support through schools are two different things. People can be diagnosed with ASD but might not be eligible to get support through the school. To be eligible for school support, a student must show a certain level of significant symptoms in the following areas: sensory, communication, repetitive behavior and social interaction. “A doctor can say a student is diagnosed, but if that student is doing okay in school, they don’t get an IEP (Individualized Education Program),” said Kristy McGinnis an Autism Specialist at Pacific University. “It’s difficult for families who have been told their child has ASD, but aren’t getting any help from the school.” Wright does well in school, especially when it comes to knowing facts, but struggles with expressing herself in writing. Even if she were to be medically diagnosed, she most likely would not have gotten support from the school. While most people with ASD want support, most are not looking for a cure. According to Wright, they are looking for a way to live with ASD, rather than live without it. Despite this, much of the money that has been donated to organizations is used for looking for a cure, according to Burger. “Money goes to cures and prevention. The cause isn’t known, and it would be nice to know, but it’s research versus providing a support system -- support for people who are heavily impacted,” Burger said. Given they get the support they need, whether that’s a consistent check-ins or help with transportation, most people with ASD can be successful adults at their own capacity.
“Each person has varying needs,” Life Skills teacher Heather Hafner said. “Some people need extra support, whether that’s finding a job, training for a job, money management, making meals, general home safety or weekly check-ins. All can be successful within a realm of support.” This is what Wright seeks. To be independent with the correct support. But for people on the autism spectrum, people in society might not be willing to accept and understand the problems they have. Because no two people with ASD are exactly the same, people often have a hard time understanding why these people behave the way they do. Creating awareness about how people with ASD function and allowing integration will create the support that people with ASD need to function in society. This is what Burger, Hafner and McGinnis want for all their students. According to McGinnis, understanding people with disabilities will create more support for them in society. “It’s important to recognize who they are and that they are people. They have wants, fears and dreams. In society, people are going to come across people with disabilities, whether that’s autism, vision impairment or physical impairment,” McGinnis said. *Note: Name of source has been changed in respect for privacy
Ways to get involved... Glencoe Buddy Club: Field trips, unified sports, creating friendships “This is one of the best ways to teach social skills with peer partners, with and without disabilities” Forest Grove/Pacific University Game Club: Play games ranging from card, board and video games to drawing and coloring “High school students are always welcome to these monthly events at Pacific” For more information, go to autismsocietyoregon.org/newsandevents/events/game-club-in-forestgrove
CrimsonTimes
Feature
Wednesday, June 1, 2016
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Time. Speed. Distance.
Joining her friends in 1991 sparked a passion for new teacher Teresa Davenport by NIDHI PAI Math teacher Teresa Davenport could see the left hand turn up ahead. She was ready. But as the turn approached, instead of gliding smoothly around the corner of the Seattle dirt road, her 1987 Saab 900 Turbo drifted into the side of a hill. Her car was pulled out of the hill with a broken fender which was promptly duct-taped back on. As quickly as she had gone into the hill, Davenport was back on the road catching up with the other cars. Since that day 25 years ago, Davenport has clocked thousands of miles in a sport that has become her passion. Auto rallies last from a few hours to several days. They cover hundreds of miles on all kinds of roads, in everything from rain to snow to 90 degree temperatures. These conditions make rallies an extreme test of skill, speed and endurance for its participants. Each crew consists of a driver and co-driver who navigates. The crew must maintain a time schedule to reach each checkpoint on their route at a pre-defined time. The hard part, however, is that the location of these checkpoints is unknown. Davenport’s rallying career began in 1991 in Alaska, when she decided to follow in her friends’ footsteps and join a rally team. Her passion for rallying was an automatic click.
“I’ve always liked to drive,” Davenport said. “So [with this] you’re just trying to be really accurate and hold your speed.” In rallies, however, a successful driver does not come without a successful co-driver. Since 2012, Marvin Crippen has played that role for Davenport.
I like that chal“lenge of trying to
show the others that I can do just as well as they can.
”
Because drivers cannot practice the course beforehand, they rely on their co-drivers to know what lies ahead on the road. Using a route book and computerized odometer, co-drivers communicate hazards such as trees, cliffs and junctions, enabling the driver to determine which angle and speed to take each turn. This, Crippen said, is why teamwork and communication are key to be a successful rally team. “The ability to have fun even when things aren’t going so great is also a big help,” Crippen said. By these measures, Crippen added, they are a very successful team. “[Davenport is] honest, focused, and safe. She maintains a great focus on the road and keeping up on time but is always willing to fall back when the conditions get a bit dicey to make sure
‘Just text me’ by CONNER WILSON
Cell phone addiction is real. Nearly one and four people are addicted to their phone, according to “Psychology Today.” The real word for cell phone addiction is nomophobia, which is the fear of being away from or unable to use your phone. “[Cell phone use is] still pretty new to us as a culture,” psychology teacher Lisa Pearson said. Pearson said that how we socialize with people has changed throughout history, and cell phones are just another shift in how we communicate. As a culture, we are still creating a social contract for cell phone use according to Pearson. This includes deciding as a culture when it is acceptable to use cell phones and social media. Pearson said teens and parents currently have different social contracts when it comes to use of electronic media. Cell phone use does not come without problems, Pearson said. “You get the benefits of some socializing, but you don’t
Teresa Davenport in her 1989 325 BMWiX, Trixie. the car stays on the road.” Regardless of how well a crew works together, however, the ambiguity of rallying conditions creates many opportunities for just that — things going wrong. In one of their most recent rallies in February, Davenport and Crippen “stuffed it”—rallying language for putting their car into a snow bank. “[And] it wasn’t just a little fluffy snow bank that you could back out of,” Davenport said. “It was a snow bank that we had to dig for about 45 minutes to get out of. And then we had to have someone else give us a pull so that we could get loose from it. So, rallying teaches you a lot of things like you don’t give up, you just keep digging. And you can’t be afraid to ask for help […]” This element of surprise is exactly what Davenport likes so much about the sport. “[With rallying], you don’t know what’s over the next hill,” she said. “On a [race] track, after you’ve gone around the track a couple of times, you know what’s around the next corner.” In addition to her love for the challenge that tough courses bring on, Davenport feels an extra pressure because she is often the only woman driving in the rallies.
photo by EMMA VANDEHEY
Women were actively kept out of competitive driving for years. “Driving is one thing really where there shouldn’t be any difference in ability,” she said. “I like that challenge of trying to show the others that I can do just as well as they can.” This determination and perseverance have played a key role in shaping Davenport’s outlook on different aspects of her life. “Rallying is a sport which requires total concentration and being in the moment,” Davenport said. “If that focus is lost, even for a short time, bad things can happen—missing a turn, missing a shift, running off the road, getting early or late, hitting a snow bank.” Davenport retired as a teacher in Alaska and did not expect to continue teaching when she moved to Oregon in 2007. In the same way, she did not expect rallying to become her passion when she joined her friends in 1991. However, these unexpected twists have become things Davenport has learned to accept and appreciate. “You know, if everything went right—if you got a zero on every single checkpoint, and you never went sideways, and you never went off the road into the side
bank—it just wouldn’t be that much fun,” Davenport said.
Are you a teen? Want to get involved in rallying? Check these out! South Eastern Crate Division (SECA): first Friday night of every month, www.secaracing. com Alfa Romeo Club: Rally ing School (1st week of March), weekend rallies on Sunday (MarchJune), http://www.alfaclub.org/ Only requirement: proof of driver’s license and insurance “Don’t need a lot of special equipment, just need to get in your car and try to follow directions” “It’s a nice, cheap [and] fun way to play with your car!”
Cell phones and social media are supposed to bring us together, but are they actually doing the opposite?
entirely get the real face-to-face human interaction,” Pearson said. Cell phones can isolate people when they only talk to those they already know rather than communicating with new people. Social media also provides the illusion of companionship when actually a person is alone, according to “ActiveBeat”, a health website. Research done at Baylor University said that people who constantly check social media could be trying to improve a negative mood. “Everyday Health” said the users who are on social media the most are more likely to be lonely. Pearson said that when people text, there is an added pressure to always reply back and communicate with someone when really, people need time to unplug and decompress. According to Senior Kaili Ward, she feels the pressure to respond when she receives texts from her mom. Another problem with communicating through social media is that the conversation can turn artificial, Pearson said. There is also an aspect of exposure if you are always in contact with someone and there is no quality to the con-
versation. This is because there is no tone and facial expressions.
You get the benefits of some so“cializing, but you don’t entirely get the real face-to-face human interaction.
”
Another concern is that people only share their best moments on social media and leave out the bad moments. Pearson said that comparing on social media is dangerous. “You know the ups and the downs [of your life], and you only see the ups of someone else’s life,” Pearson said. According to Health.com, the more time spent on social media increases the risk of depression. Ward said that if people are using social media in a negative way by bringing down others, she can see how social media can lead to depression. If you do feel like you are struggling from social media addiction, The Huffington Post suggests that you limit time on social media so you can recharge.
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CrimsonTimes
Around the World
Tschüss, Vali!
Name: Valintina (Vali) Rӧsch Age: 16 Lives in: Zӧschingen, Germany What is your village like? What about your country? “Everybody knows each other, and it is very small. There is a lot of farming. There are more cars than people! My family had built their own house. It is very peaceful where I live.” What other languages do you know/speak? “I know French, German, and English, which is a need to know.” What did you like to do in your free time in Germany? “My friends and I would go out and explore castles.” Do you do any extracurricular activities? “ I did choir, Senior Spotlight, and the musical. I was in a school choir in Germany, too. We had gone to Argentina for a competition and will be going to Japan next year.”
Adjö, Alice! Name: Alice Hӧjesjӧ Age: 18 Lives in: Norsesund, Sweden What movies did you watch to prepare yourself to come to the United States? “Mostly ‘High School Musical,’ and ‘One Tree Hill.’” How did the TV shows and movies that you watched live up to the real U.S. experience? “The school spirit is the same as I saw. I love the high school spirit.” What is your hometown in Sweden like? My hometown is really small, it’s by a lake, and there are a lot of country homes.” What do you like least about the U.S.? “I don’t like the fashion as much, like basketball shorts. I hate basketball shorts.”
Sverige
Sayōnara, Sae! Name: Sae Kaminota Age: 16 Lives in: Funabashi, Japan What is your city like? What about your country? “Japan is a nice country, but it’s crowded with less nature. It’s an old country so there are many cool historical sites like temples and castles. Japan is also a long country so there are many different climates and views.” Why were you interested in studying abroad? “I wanted to know American culture and tell Japanese culture to American people. I also wanted to be able to speak English.” What is a main difference in culture? “The lifestyle and sense of value is different. I feel like Americans are freer and more independent. An example is in Japan we don’t choose our classes, we don’t have discussions in class. Only the teacher can speak and we take notes.”
Nihon
Deutschland
Adiós, Celia!
Name: Celia Diaz Age: 16 Liven in: Zaragoza, Spain Is school harder in Spain or here? “The difference is the studying -- way more studying. We have six periods each are 50 minutes, and the teachers rotate instead of the students. Basically you’re with the same students all year, and you get to know each other really well.” What do you like about Oregon in general? “The people are nice and there’s a lot of green. I also like the nature, the waterfalls and Dutch Bros.” If you could have one wish what would it be? “I want to end poverty or racism.” Where is your dream place to live and where have you traveled? “My dream place to live is London. I’ve visited Italy, France, England, Germany, and now the United States.” Favorite food? “Pasta, especially when my mom made it with tomato sauce and cheese. It’s the best..”
España
Zàijiàn, Mina!
Name: Mianjing (Mina) Wang Age: 17 Lives in: Beijing, China What is your home city like? “Beijing is a really big and busy city. The population is 21.52 million.” What are examples of cultural differences? “I think there are few differences in culture. In China, if we give somebody a present, the person who received the present will give a gift back to you. That shows politeness to others. Second, I think people in China are too shy to talk to strangers. But in America, I found out my host mom always talks to somebody who she doesn’t know in grocery stores.” How would you compare education in China and America? “School in China is much harder than in the U.S. We get up at 6 every day and we need to be at school before 7:15. We usually go home around 5 or 6. Students have to study at school until 9 p.m. And we have lots of homework, too.”
Zhōngguó
CrimsonTimes
Opinion
Wednesday June 1, 2016
Editorial
Page
Coming home to hard times
7
In the United States we like to say we support veterans, but what really happens when they return home?
As Americans, we are quick to fly our stars and stripes, cheer on the U.S. Olympic Team and support our troops. Our country was born through revolution and we have fought to protect uniquely American ideals since its birth. Maintaining a strong military has been one of the top priorities in the United States. National defense is used as a stump speech in numerous political campaigns and vehemently defended on the floor of Congress. The United States spends more on the military than any other country, including Russia and China. At $598.5 billion, the military budget now comprises 54% of the annual discretionary budget of the United States government. Budget cuts ushered in by the Obama administration brought military spending down from $671 billion to $619 billion in 2013. However, prior to these cuts, military spending had been increased every year since 1998, under both Democratic and Republican leadership. Both parties value a strong military. However, they seem to value military strength much more than veterans services. While the military makes up over half of the U.S. budget, veterans services seem to have been ignored. In 2015, only 6% of the total budget was allotted for veterans services. Although 6% of the federal budget is still a large
amount of money, it is not nearly enough to meet the many needs of the over 20 million U.S. veterans. As these veterans return home from months of being away from their families, often living in dangerous places, they are met by a lack of services and care. Many need treatment for common side effects of combat, such as PTSD or physical health issues. Some need help with housing and job placement. Many need counseling and suicide prevention services. Coming home becomes just another battle to fight for these veterans. Instead of real care, they are met by complicated bureaucratic systems. Many veterans are frustrated by the Office of Veterans Affairs. But many are experiencing issues far beyond frustration. For example, some veterans worry they may have cancer or other chronic diseases. With long wait times, most over a month just for an appointment, their worries worsen because cancer more effectively treated the earlier it is discovered. But lack of funding affects more than health care. Oregon representative Susan McLain said housing is one of the most important services veterans need. Job training also helps to integrate them back into daily life. Suicide prevention and
Jim’s First World Problems
health care help mitigate some of the lasting effects of combat and war. However, these services are often lacking on both a national and state level. The effects of inadequate funding are clear. According to CNN, in 2015 the Veteran Affairs inspector general found over 800,000 veteran files stalled in the agency’s system. Of those 800,000 veterans that were awaiting care, 307,000 had died since filing. The inspection concluded that the V.A. had a lack of oversight and inadequate management. In 2010, the inspector even found staffers hiding files behind their
desks, a result of unmanageable caseloads and understaffing according to the CNN coverage. But the issue extends far beyond healthcare or the V.A. hospital. Homelessness is incredibly prevalent amongst veterans. The Oregon Legislature has already begun to make progress in veterans’ services. In the 2015 session they decided to put more resources into services specifically for women veterans, including adding a Director of Women’s Veteran’s Services. The House and Senate also passed a Ballot Measure in the 2016 session to address many of the issues faced by veterans.
Namely, they hope to address homelessness and job training. If Oregon voters pass this measure in November, 1.5% of lottery funds would be allotted to veterans’ services. This increase in funding would allow the state to have better services in housing and healthcare among other things. Only with changes like these will the United States be truly serving those who so bravely served our country. The era of a strong military and weak veteran resources must come to an end. It is time for our country to actually support our troops, not just the wars they fight in.
by SKYLER BAILEY Nothing to wear
Nothing to do
Illustration by REBECCA DAN
Nothing to eat
Yep, just a whole lot of nothing!
And nothing to watch either...
Do you want anything?
Energy Rejuvenation
by REBECCA DAN
I’ll take a mocha breve with no foam, 3 pumps, and cinnamon dusting.
THEN HOW DO YOU FUNCTION?!?! There’s this amazing thing called sleep.
No, I hate coffee.
Hahaha I win!
Clash of the Samurai
by PABLO ESPINOZA
Not fair, I fell!
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8
Sports
Wednesday, June 1, 2016
CrimsonTimes
Spring Sports
Girls Golf
Softball
Head coach: Aaron Kellar Senior: Maya Aguilar Other team members: Sophomore Sophia Juenemann, Sophomore Aisling Taylor, Freshman Rebecca Gamroth, Freshman Brooklyn Ravins Top player: The first person ranked from 1-5 is sophomore Sophia Juenemann, the second is senior Maya Aguilar Memorable moments: “The beginning of the season was very rainy and because of that people would slip. Everyone fell at least once on the course.”-Maya Aguilar, “Putting and chipping contests for milkshakes.”- Sophia Juenemann Team traditions: Snickers bars as mood boosters before tournaments How did the season go for the girls? “This was another great season for us as a program. The girls worked very hard and improved their scores every week. As a program, we only competed in JV tournaments for most of the season, but we had 2 players improve to the point where they were able to participate in the last Varsity tournament of the season.”- Kellar
Head Coach: Jason Eastman Seniors: Kamryn Apling, Emma Ross, Macy Besuyen, Tatum Becker, Abby Bushing and Emmy Stonier Captains: All Seniors Team Record: 20-8 Highlights: Currently competing in state playoffs Traditions: The team prays before every game and always has Senor Ricardo do announcements Proudest moment: Beating Southridge “My favorite memory would be when we beat Tualatin, who were the defending state champs. We beat them 10-2” -Apling
Baseball
Boys Golf Head Coach: Tim Duvall Players: Brandon Braithwaite, Cale Duenes, Casey Cameron, Codi Boden, Dylan Habelind, Gavin Wilhelmi, Justin Duyck, Matthew Smith, Tanner Van Dyke State athletes: Brandon Braithwaite and Casey Cameron “One of my favorite memories is going to the Black Butte tounament with the team” -Boden
Track
photo by NORM MAVES Freshman thirdbaseman Morgan Debord in a winning playoff game against Barlow High School on May 25.
Coaches: Dennis Rice, Ian Reynoso, David Welsh Seniors: Kirk Anderson, Joel Biamont, Lucas Fort, Josh Gibbs, Kaleb Havlik, Kyle Hiebel, Garrett Hoaglin, Anton Khokhryakov, Zach McKell, Marquise McKinney, Shad Mont, Jack Samuelson, Dillon Stott, Kegan Waters, Sabrina McGowen, Miranda Schneider, Alex Tessner State Athletes: Senior Alex Tessner- 300M
Hurdles, Alexis Lince- 800M, Amanda Fassold- 200M, Myah Jensen- Pole Vault, Marquise Mckinney- shot put, Kaleb Havelik- Javelin Traditions: Weekly pasta parties and chanting “roll tide on three, 1,2,3” during warm-up laps “We were neck and neck with Hilhi but I passed the Hilhi girl on the last 100M and we won the 4x4 against 7 other teams. A sea of Glencoe athletes were lining the track and cheering for me as I finished the race.” - Tessner
Senior Sabrina McGowen competing in long jump at Glencoe. photo by NIC WELTY
Girls Lacrosse Head Coach: Ashley Farmer Assistant Coach: Kylie Smith Captains: Savannah Justen, Kirsten Van Dyck, and Julia Reynolds “As far as traditions go for our team, we always have a halftime snack for games. Usually it consists of oranges. I remember when I first joined the team and thinking how weird it was, but now it’s just the norm, and [it] gives everyone a little boost.” –Reynolds “This season has definitely been a learning season. All the girls have stepped up and improved greatly! I’m extremely proud of how close the girls became over the season learning to work together and to trust each other’s ability to play the game.” –Assistant Coach Kylie Smith “The most memorable moment so far this season has our first game against Newburg. I had told the team that if we could score 5 goals on them I would make them brownies. We ended up doing it and that game is now known as the “brownie game!” It was such a fun game and everyone really did great.” -Reynolds
Head Coach: Tim Stewart Seniors: Gabe Garrison, Jacob Vice, Lance Sommer, Trever Adams, and Colton Sarvela Captains: Gabe Garrison and Jacob Vice. Team Record: 5-12 Highlights: Jacob Vice and Gabe Garrison got first team all-league Traditions: Weekly team dinners and the new recruit breakfast. The new recruit breakfast is when returning varsity players take new players out to breakfast. “[We] had a great group of seniors. Great senior leadership— [we’ve] been lacking in [it] for the past few years. The really young guys were big contributors. We had a starting freshman for the first time in many years.” -Stewart
Boys Lacrosse Head Coach: Kyle Tolzman Seniors: Mitch Viner, Jonathan Takle, Joey O’Rourke, and Tiki Stewart Captains: Joey O’Rourke, Mitch Viner, and Ryan Hall Team record: 11-7 “Our team has gifts that get handed down at the end of each season from seniors to lower classmen. This has been my favorite season ever because I feel like everyone on the team is after the same goal and we’re closer to a family than a team.” –O’Rourke “As the new head coach of this program, I wanted these boys to understand what it takes to be successful in lacrosse and life. We spend countless hours each week in the weight room, watching film, practicing, playing games, and going to team dinners. Glencoe Lacrosse is not a team, it is a family that loves spending time together. I am proud of what these boys have done on the field, off the field, and in the classroom.” –Tolzman “We have many traditions that have been passed on year after year. However, the boys have a new tradition this year. They bring a blue elephant to every game that sits on the bench.” -Tolzman
CrimsonTimes
Feature
Wednesday, June 1, 2016
Feeling the rhythm
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9
Starting as a young pianist, junior Marissa Hall has expanded her musical career as a drummer
W
by AIYANA TURNER
ith drumsticks firmly held in both hands and eyes tightly shut, junior Marissa Hall launched into a fever of rhythms and notes. Her movements seemed uncontrolled and wild, yet every stroke of her drumstick was in perfect rhythm. Thump. Thump. Baboom. Baboom. She felt alive. She felt free. She felt as if each intake of breath was too short and that her “lungs would explode”, but felt content. Marissa Hall lives for moments like these when she feels free in her music -whether during band concerts or just playing at home. “At the age where I could walk, my mom said I would drum on everything,” Hall said. “Like pots, pans and the counters. Just whatever I could drum on.” Though she loved playing the drums, she decided at a young age to learn the piano first. This allowed her to gain experience in the world of music. Hall also had another reason. She wanted to show her mother how committed to was to music and demonstrate her ability to learn the technical aspects of an instrument. Hall took piano lessons from a woman who lived nearby and soon began to take a great liking to it. “There’s not really a set time that I play for[the piano]. I just lose myself in the music. Sometimes I just play for hours and hours,” Hall said with a slight smile. Five years after starting to learn the piano, Hall began the drums. Watching YouTube videos of others drumming and taking lessons allowed her to absorb the information about drumming but also served as inspiration. She began to practice for hours on end after her lessons and during her free time. Linda Hall said that her daughter has music built into her. “Her enthusiasm and her intent was fascinating to watch,” Linda Hall said. “She
Girls Tennis
seemed to absorb the information whether it’d be from her music or advice given from her instructor and put it to use. She wasn’t afraid to try.” Haley Agostini, a friend of Hall’s said how Hall was passionate from the first day they had met in kindergarten but had not fully realized it until the age of 10. “The band instructor who had come to Free Orchards held up a trombone and asked if anyone would like to play it. Marissa’s eyes lit up [when he called on her]. She blew into the trombone, and she realized she wanted to be in the band.” Every instrument Hall learned during her childhood and her teenage years holds a place in her heart. Each encompassed what music was all about and what made her fall in love with it as a child. Several of Hall’s friends recall a memory when they have been moved by her talents as a pianist. Leslie Nava was holding her Quinceanera at a lodge-style home near a quaint winery. The night was filled with wild salsa music and fast-paced dancing when sudden rain and thunder caused the lights to turn off. While her friends began to ask what they were going to do without power and lack of music, Hall soon found the piano. Hall’s thin fingers began to glide down the keys. Nava and her guests felt the emotions that went along with the melancholy sounds of the song and felt the love Hall had towards the piano. “Her singing and her playing the piano was beautiful. My quince is a memory I will never forget because of Marissa,” Nava said, grinning from ear to ear. From the piano to the drums, Hall has provided memories that will not be forgotten. She has provided them while playing piano for friends and family and at Glencoe drumline events. For the drumline, Hall practices at least 20 hours a week with other members and practices outside of that as well. For many, that amount of practice seems crazy but to Hall it’s essential to growing as a musician.
Head Coach: Ashley Schneider Seniors: Kiara LuBean, and Hannah Gerber Top players: Hannah Gerber, Aiyana Turner Memorable moments: “Hitting each other a lot at practice.”-Tara Martin Team traditions: “We have a team tradition of getting new grips before districts.” Feelings on the season: “we all feel great about the season-we always have lots of fun, the girls are all extremely fun to be around and overall tennis is a great sport.”
photo by MADISON FIKE Marissa Hall standing in formation during conditioning with the drumline. As a young child drumming on pots and pans to an experienced musician involved in Glencoe High and in the community, Hall has proven her dedication. Throughout her journey with music, she has learned with time to love what it was and love what she was able to create. To her, music was always able to lift her spirits
and ignite a fire within her that made her feel happy. During this journey, Hall has lived by a quote her mother used to tell her growing up. “Life is like a piano,” she said. ”The white keys are happy days, and the black keys are sad ones. Just remember that you need both to make music.”
Equestrian Team
Coach: Sherry Herinckx Seniors: Keisha Kemper, Daisy Johnson, Emma Vandehey Captain: Keisha Kemper Other team members: Monica Bugarin, Juan Bugarin, Yasmin Mata Highlights: “My favorite part of this year was my amazing team who made my senior year the best of any of my years on the equestrian team. I couldn’t have asked for a better team.” -Keisha Kemper “I enjoyed team time and the fact that no matter how bad our run was, our team was there to cheer us on.” -Daisy Johnson photo by EMMA VANDEHEY
Robotics
Head Coaches: Williane Tenca and Chris Steiner Seniors: Kobe Cong, Hannah Fritsch, Toby Hodges, Christopher Mckinstry, Nick Milford, Hayden Miller, Luke Perrine, Rachel Simedru (Liberty), Luke South, Carlton Squire, Kayla Toll, Ryan Van Domelen, Daniel Van Orman, Nick Welty, Tyler Wilkinson, and Leia Zimmerly. Team Captains: Hannah Fritsch, Nick Milford, and Luke South. Highlights of the Year: “Shockwave was an alliance captain at world championships.” said Fritsch. “The team also faced new challenges in innovation of new programing languages, new equipment in the appli-
cation team, and a new organization method of the manufacturing team,” according to Williane Tenca. Whats next? “With some many seniors graduating we are working to recruit and train new students.” -Tenca Greatest Challenge: “Repeated failures of gears on our arm due to too much torque,”said Nathan Fritsch who is part of the drive team. Competition Results: Won Wilsonville Competition, Semi Finalist at Philomath Competition, Quarter Finalist in the Telsa Division at World Championships, and currently 10th overall in Pacific Northwest.
Boys Tennis Coach: Tariq Khan Seniors: David Melanson, Cameron Svenson, Jeff Wolfe, Ian MacGregor, Andrew Hall, Hayden Miller, Jake Johnson, Ryan Barger , Trevor Handcock Team captains: Ryan Barger, and Ian MacGregor Top players: Zach Jarvis, and Sam Gerber Team traditions: “We always go to the Helvetia Tavern after a well fought match. All of the boys are required to get the jumbo burger, it’s a rite of passage.” -Barger Season Highlights: “When Zach pulled a huge upset against Aloha’s best player.”- Barger
CrimsonTimes
Feature
Wednesday, June 1, 2016
Page
10
Helping others help themselves Megan Peacock and her family traveled to Peru last summer to build a bathroom with running water in a village marketplace
S “
by ASHLEE BROWN
a bathroom in a small village market where women sell goods such as wool clothing. Buses packed with tourists would not usually stop at this village to shop because there were no public restrooms.
omos libres. Seámoslo siempre. Seámoslo siempre…”
Sophomore Megan Peacock stood at the sunny dock in Quillabamba last July and marveled at the welcome she received from the Peruvians. Small children sitting upon large men’s shoulders were singing enthusiastically while others tapped away on drums to keep the beat alive. The Spanish song they proudly expressed is translated as “We are free! May we always be so, may we always be so!” Peruvians of all ages chanted their national anthem at the welcoming ceremony for those who had come to help them. Peacock fondly remembers the overwhelming amount of love she felt as she stepped off the dock into an unknown world. “The people in Peru are so happy and welcoming,” Peacock said. According to Peacock, “We have so much, but the little these people did have, made them happy.” Suzanne Peacock, Peacock’s mother, learned about the incredible experience of volunteering in Peru when she first heard about it from a friend. In addition, Peacock’s brother had just finished serving a mission where he spoke Spanish, making Peru a perfect option for their family humanitarian trip. Suzanne Peacock looked into the online website of the organization Eagle Condor where she arranged a humanitarian trip to Peru for her family in July of 2015. The mission of Eagle Condor is to provide opportunities for self-reliance around the world. “We were trying to help makes these people’s lives a little better by teaching them how to help themselves and become more self-reliant,” Suzanne Peacock said. Peacock and her family took on the project of building
There’s something about serving “together that brings you closer. ”
After building a bathroom with running water, along with a covered area, more tourists began stopping by. Now these saleswoman, many who are single mothers, have a better chance to provide for their families. “The people are very humble and very grateful. The ceremonies they had for us were very touching,” Suzanne Peacock said. The culture of Peru is vastly different from that in America. Unlike children in America, children in Quillabamba have no electronic devices. “They play games such as volleyball or soccer together outside instead of staying inside watching TV like we do,” Peacock said. The only entertainment these kids get is from activities they do together. “Our worldly possessions are not what brings true happiness,” Peacock said. “Being with family and serving together is what true joy is.” Peacock said she discovered spending time serving together with her family gave her a very special feeling that is different from the feeling of sitting together at home on the couch watching TV. “There’s something about serving together that brings you closer,” Peacock said. Traveling to Peru and serving together, creating many memories the Peacock family will always share. Peacock continues to hear the sweet voices ringing through her ears from that first day in Quillabamba. The
photo by EMMA VANDEHEY
Sophomore Megan Peacock simple yet rich lives lived by the Peruvian people made a lasting impact on the Peacock family. The people in Quillabamba may not have what we do, but as they sang their national anthem with pride together, it was clear that the Peacocks were reminded of what brings true joy.
The battles fought at home Students whose family members serve in the military find it creates new challenges at home by JAYMILI MAKIN Nikki Lund misses her brothers every day of her life. The Glencoe sophomore has two brothers in the military: one in the Marine Corps in California and the other in the Air Force in Colorado. Having her two siblings gone is a day-to-day loss she has to combat. “[It has] its up and downs. Some days it’s harder to have them away than others. It’s a lot lonelier at home without them, but [I’m] super proud of them,” Lund said. This feeling of loss is common for people with family members serving in the military. Freshman Trent Robinson recalls his uncle missing family events because of the Air Force. Military duties had conflicted with reunions and holidays in the past. Robinson is planning to serve in the Navy. However, when he thinks about his future he is concerned about the effects it will have on his family connections. Robinson is currently in the Navy Cadet program, and it has already led him to miss New Year’s and his sister’s birthday. Robinson dedicates himself to the program, even though it requires a lot of work. His duties can keep
him away from home for a few weeks. Changes seem obvious to Robinson when he returns from these duties, but he said he quickly adjusts to what altered. Each person has a unique way of handling the effects of having a loved one away. Some choose not to think about it; others constantly think of their loved ones in the field.
[It has] its up and “downs. Some days
it’s harder to have them away than others.
”
“I try not to worry about them,” Lund explained. “When I do though, I just find something that I enjoy doing to keep my mind off of them. I play video games, draw or paint, and play or listen to music.” When family members come home, they come back with new experiences that few civilians go through on a daily basis. Stories from their time can cause veterans to relive what happened, often causing them to not want to talk about what happened to them. Senior Samantha Saif’s father often does not share his experiences.
Saif’s father was a freedom fighter in Afghanistan who served for five years. She said he chooses not to openly share stories about the time he served. However, if asked about an event, he will answer. On the other hand, some veterans are open to talking about their services, such as Robinson’s great uncle. Robinson’s great uncle served in the Canadian army during World War II. He earned
medals while on duty that he describes to Robinson. Dedication and sacrifices are required to earn a medal from the royal family. “A lot of people don’t understand the sacrifices veterans give,” Robinson said. Whenever Robinson sees a veteran, he shakes their hand and thanks them for their service. Robinson said he believes freedom comes from veterans and Advertisement
that veterans should not be taken for granted. Standing during the Pledge of Allegiance, staying quiet during the National Anthem, and loving the country are ways that Robinson suggests to show them gratitude. “Remind veterans: their service will always be appreciated,” Robinson said.
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11 Feature
Wednesday, June 1, 2016
CrimsonTimes
Remixing the music industry What started as a dream is now becoming an emerging reality for sophomore Lucas Strelchun by SAM MELVIN The curtains in Lucas Strelchun’s mind roll back to reveal a crowd of 20,000 people -- all cheering, clapping, and excited for the main show to begin. Multi-color strobe lights flash in his eyes, obscuring his view of the audience. But one thing is for sure: they are all staring at the performer standing before them. Him. Strelchun dreams of standing before a crowd like this as soon as he can. Strelchun, who is a sophomore, has been producing and remixing music for the last three years, at what he would consider to be a beginning level. “Music is another way of expressing myself. Even if it doesn’t have lyrics, it makes me happy,” said Strelchun, who goes by the name of ‘Dj Stretchman’ onDJ Stretchman works on making music at a personalized photo by NIC WELTY line. studio in his home. Producing and remixing music are two big areas in the industry, according to the car, anywhere,” he said. This admira- came from. Or why.” tion for music has turned into a key trait in After feeling the first pull towards Strelchun. DJ’ing, Strelchun downloaded an online Production to him is making his own his personality. demo for a real software program used for music, which involves creating completely A lot of the criticism is mixing. It took a while to learn, and “led new rhythms and sounds. Remixing involves taking an existing [coming] from people who to some really terrible remixes...[but] It’s a giant learning experience, with a lot song and changing it. Those changes can have tried what you’re do- been of YouTube tutorials. A lot,” Strelchun said be to the tempo and/or pitch. But, usually ing and haven’t gotten to with a laugh. remixing will have him taking existing vocals of one song and layering them on top where you are as quickly The room he has been using is now filled with audio equipment. It looks a bit of the instruments of a new song. as they would like, and they like a musical man cave. He is one of about four students that he Relative to others in his field, Strelchun knows of who do remixing and production. despise you for that. has been producing with little experience. He has an album for sale at this time. He remembered when he first He has not taken any classes that teach Strelchun has always had an ear for how to read and play music. music. Hip-hop dance classes were part of realized he wanted to become a DJ. “It was in seventh grade. I had just a “It kinda makes me wish I’d paid a little what got him rolling when he was younger. “I was always the kid that asked ‘Can sudden burst of the interest in DJ’ing,” more attention in Ms. Kelly’s [the music we turn the radio on?’ during the class, in he said. “I don’t even remember where it teacher at Jackson Elementary] music
“
”
class,” he said with a wide grin. Strelchun hit a major milestone in January of this year: the release of his first album onto the iTunes Store. But this milestone has been met with some surprising opposition in the music community, according to Strelchun. “I’m just starting to overcome people who don’t agree with younger people DJ’ing in a professional club,” Strelchun said, solemnly. “I’m still trying to convince other people that I have the same setup and the same professionalism as people who may be 30, even though I’m a lot younger.” Strelchun does not give up easily, though. Just the opposite. “I want to get to the point where I can prove people wrong because I can actually do it,” he said. “A lot of the criticism is [coming] from people who have tried what you’re doing and haven’t gotten to where you are as quickly as they would like, and they despise you for that,” Strelchun said, almost glumly. Strelchun has a goal of one day touring the world, which is a dream he thinks is quite possible. Strelchun has had a lot of support from the people close to him. Junior Kayla Melcher, his girlfriend, sees him being very successful in the future. “I see how talented he is, I see how much he enjoys it. I think he has a really good chance at making it big.” While his journey in music is just beginning, it has already given him much to be proud of. “There is a satisfaction in making something you love,” he said, “and having other people love it, too. It is how dreams begin.” And the curtains stay open forever.
Split between two cultures Sophomore Claire Graves shares her experience being a biracial high school student by DESTERY EPLING The feeling of being out of place lingers in the back of sophomore Claire Graves’ mind. Racial slurs linger. Judgments linger. They pull at her, making her feel like she is rejected by Mexican and white American culture. “People view me as whatever they are not,” she said. “White people will say ‘You’re Mexican,’ while Mexican people will say ‘But you’re white.’ And it’s frustrating.” With her biracial heritage and first–generation Mexican mother, Graves wants to embrace her identity, not erase it. “The challenge,” her mother, Elvia Graves said, “is to not let other people’s judgment about you stop you from doing what
you want to do.” Over the years, Graves has come to accept and embrace her identity as biracial. “I always identified as Mexican,” Graves said. “I felt like I needed to defend that. But I grew up in white culture, and I love my father’s culture as much as I love my mother’s. I only started identifying as Mexican–American recently because I realized I am both. Some people can’t see that.” Many assume Graves’ ethnicity and racial background to be fully Mexican or Hawaiian without asking her. Whenever she is asked about her background, she is glad to answer. “Somebody came up and asked me, ‘What’s your ethnicity?’ and that was amazing,” Graves said. “Somebody asked me and didn’t assume!”
Many issues facing Graves and other students of color are tied to stereotypes and labels placed on entire groups. Sometimes, these labels and stereotypes lead to hostility and untrue assumptions pertaining to an entire race.
It’s the best gift you “have: knowledge. It
can get you so far. You asking questions, asking about opinions is so important.
”
“The typical stereotype is that Mexicans lie, cheat and are sneaky,” she said. “That’s just not true. They can be very selfless people. Not everybody, of course. But the culture has so many car-
ing people who are living their lives exactly like Americans. It isn’t right to think a person of color is automatically a criminal.” She hopes to educate more people about racial, ethnic and cultural issues, and encourages others to expand their own knowledge on the subject. “Do your research,” Graves said. “It’s the best gift you have: knowledge. It can get you so far. You asking questions, asking about opinions is so important. Being open is important. You try to understand and be respectful if you disagree. It is never attractive to be ignorant to anybody.” Her mother has taught Graves to have an open mind; not only for racial issues, but for all subjects. Elvia Graves hopes others can do the same. “If people get to know you as
a person, with an open mind, then they would be more accepting,” Elvia Graves said. “I think people are afraid of what they don’t know. At the end of the day we are all human. We want the same basic needs–love, appreciation, acceptance.” Graves hopes others will educate themselves when it comes to foreign cultures and ethnicities, and that one day stereotypes will not be attached to specific racial groups. Graves said she believes the world can change for the better; through asking tough questions, through education and knowledge, and through having an open mind and heart. “The whole goal of racial equality,” Graves said, “is for everyone to feel accepted for their skin color.”
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12 Feature
Wednesday, June 1, 2016
CrimsonTimes
Rolling with the punches Taylor Stenius participates in the fast-paced and aggressive sport, roller derby by GRACE SIMANTEL Taylor Stenius’s curly orange hair flies behind her as she speeds by smoothly on her roller skates. With her wheels rumbling, she gracefully leans into the corner of the track and builds up speed again. She beats her last loop time by a matter of milliseconds–and avoids the consequence of pushups. Stenius’s roller derby team then lines up in a long row during this four-hour practice. The coach blows a whistle. All the skaters rush in the same direction, and anytime they hear the shrill sound of the whistle, the entire team makes an abrupt turn in the opposite direction. By the time this is over, Stenius is out of breath and red in the face, but still smiling. “A lot of people think it is a good sport because you can take out your aggression…legally,” Stenius said laughing. Although roller derby is aggressive, Stenius is known by many to be kind and welcoming to all. “She’s thoughtful, really nice, hardworking, fun… the list goes on!” said sophomore Kaitlyn Kosloski, a close friend of Stenius. Stenius said she knows roller derby has affected her in a very positive way.
“I feel like I’m probably a nicer person, and I tolerate people more,” Stenius explained.
“thinkA itlotis a ofgoodpeople sport
because you can take out your aggression… legally
”
Stenius started roller derby in eight grade with the Westside Derby Brigade at the Hillsboro Armory. Now, as a sophomore, she is known as one of the strongest skaters on the junior team, due to her swiftness and experience with the sport. “Taylor is very well respected on the team and is one of the fastest even though she is tall,” said her coach Ed Villegas. In roller derby it can be an advantage to be lower to the ground. Being tall can have a negative impact on this. Stenius, however, does not seem to let her height affect her skating abilities. What Stenius loves most about roller derby is the fact that it is physically challenging and fun at the same time. “If I didn’t do roller derby I would be way less athletic, and I would probably have breathing problems,” Stenius said matterof-factly. When two roller derby teams
compete against each other, it is called a bout. “It’s kind of a confusing game,” Stenius said. “Whenever anybody asks me what the objective is I’m not entirely sure what to say at first.” A roller derby bout consists of two five-member teams skating in the same direction around a track. One member called the jammer scores points by breaking through and lapping the opposing team. Both teams are playing offense and defense simultaneously, which explains why there may be an occasional elbow to the face. Although Stenius has never been badly injured, she said she has definitely come home with some bruises. Stenius said how she feels a bit anxious during bouts, especially when her role is the jammer. When the first whistle announces the start Stenius is able to forget her agitation and just go. The frenzy of whistles and cheering becomes background noise, and Stenius is immersed in the sport. “She’s not afraid to put herself out there,” Kosloski said. “She doesn’t care what people think of her, and she just does what makes her happy.” Taylor Stenius is happiest when she’s on a roll.
photo by JOEY SURICO Taylor Stenius weaves between cones at high speeds alongside her teammates during her four-hour long roller derby practice.
Creating a discussion about race Chidube Egbo has played a key role in creating the Racial Equity Club to establish an open dialogue about race by EVELYN DETRICK All his life he has seen people in fear. Afraid to be who they are. Afraid to stand up. Afraid to share their stories. This fear is what inspired junior Chidube Egbo, along with Claire Graves, Chris Bacuita and Ezinne Egbo, to start the Racial Equity Club. Being one of the few African Americans in his community has heavily affected his drive to establish an open dialogue about race. He always knew he wanted to contribute to equality, but he could not quite figure out how. Last year’s cultural heritage assembly became the catalyst, leading him to organize the district’s first racial equity club. During that week a student panel discussed their experiences regarding race and ethnicity. The panel was organized by theater and calculus teacher, Lori Daliposon. Seeing this, Egbo was inspired to help
Crimson Times Staff
the students of color continue to voice their experiences and perspectives. “We want students of color to feel safe and [feel] like their voices are heard,” Egbo said. Along with helping students of color, Egbo also wishes to open a dialogue amongst allies. “We want to give allies a place so they can learn and talk with students of color, figure out what they’re doing right and figure out how they can be better allies.” According to his friend Veronica Garcia, Egbo has always strived to open conversations that might be controversial with the intent to make a difference. “Our relationship is very opinionated. We talk about things that might be hard for other people to talk about in terms of race and sexuality and stuff like that,” Garcia said. While Egbo stresses the importance of opening conversations, he also emphasizes taking action.
Editor in Chief: Maya Aguilar Business Manager: Nidhi Pai General Manager: Mica Annis Prodiction Manager: Glencoe High School; Maya Aguilar 2700 NW Glencoe Rd, Photo Editor: Hillsboro, OR 97124 Conner Wilson
Photographers: Madison Fike Joey Surico Emma Vandehey Nicolas Welty Design Editor: Rebecca Dan Illustrators: Skyler Bailey
Most recently he has been attempting to diversify the curriculum in schools. Egbo wants to see more authors of color added to the approved reading list. Egbo and Beth Morgan, have been working to collect a list of titles written by racially diverse authors.
want students of col“orWe to feel safe and [feel] like their voices are heard ”
”It seems like we read the same books. And even if it’s by an author of color, everyone’s [already] read it. So I feel like getting some more different books would be really interesting--and from different time periods,” Egbo said. Improving his community is a goal firmly rooted in his desire to accept himself. Egbo said he used to feel self-conscious regarding the perception of others. “I was always thinking about how I
Rebecca Dan Pablo Espinoza Anand Kailasam Julia Sherwood Business: Katie Graves Adam Williams Reporters: Maya Aguilar Mica Annis
might be looked at for my race by doing certain things, thinking about who I hang out with, or what I do, or how I might look when I do some things.” Having assumptions imposed upon him was a major concern. He said he sometimes found himself changing habits that might be considered stereotypical of his race. Now, rather than defining himself based on the perception of others, he said he tries to do what feels natural. “I used to [fear perpetuating stereotypes] but now I’m like, ‘I don’t give a hoot!’ I’m going to be myself.” Once he began to accept himself, he had a strong desire to share that feeling with others, especially regarding the racial Equity Club. Wanting every individual to feel comfortable and embrace themselves, Egbo said he strives to create a club environment to make that possible -- an environment in which no one is picked on, all are enlightened, and there is no fear.
Miranda Davis Pablo Garcia Lukas Hanson Nidhi Pai Emily Smith Ryan Van Domelen Conner Wilson Johnnie Workman Cub Reporters: Ashlee Brown
Jaymili Makin Grace Simantel Evelyn Detrick Sam Melvin Destery Epling Aiyana Turner Adviser: Juanita Reiter Consultant: Norm Maves