North Th urston High School

RAMPAGEMay 24. 2013 Volume 5, Issue 509 Boys Basketball Tru Hicks: The athletic forward didn’t MoFootball Manning: His athleticism and de- just bring his talents to the court but to meanor is intimidating but catch this the football field. His speed gave him an guy in the class room and you would advantage few athletes had the pleasure of think of him as one of the more utilizing. Doing something enjoyable and enjoyable students who is always beneficial is all this great athlete is about. down to hang out with the fellas. Everybody loves him…unless you’re on the other team. Girls Basketball Haley Harn: The spunky, bubbly, Cross Country and entertaining scholar athlete has Jordan Agatarap: This friendly one of the more decorated resumes and lively athlete always manages as far as athletes go. With great to keep a smile on his face and work on and off the court, it’s safe no matter how exhausted he got to say Haley has her mind set on a running at a race; at the end of the life of success. race he would continue smiling. No matter the outcome. Boys Swimming Matt Brickey and Tyler Ridgeway: These two tore up the pool this year in indepen- AllieGirls Amico: This Soccer rugged soccer dent swims and even relays with each player leaves it all on the turf, other. The two friends started getting to grass, and dirt, whatever. Her know each other more and more, and now attitude and style of play brings going through their swimming experience, her enjoyment and the needed they’ve grown together. confidence to be successful. No matter how difficult losses are to her, she’s always ready to lace up Wrestling her cleats for the next game. Justin Savard and Marcus Uloth: Just two of the many characters on the wrestling team. But not only did Girls Swimming they have charisma, they had great Arriya Hagen: This spunky success on the mat. Both advanced athlete kept her wits up in the to state playoffs and went through swimming pool awarding her a the season growing their friendship trip to state for all four ears at and helping each other out every Thurston. Her success has been step of the way. slim compared to the affect she has had on her friends and teachers in the classroom. Cheerleading Nina Ruiz: Arguably one of the most talented and skilled BrittanyVolleyball and Brandy Rutherford: students at Thurston. A superb This dynamic duo helped raise singer with the ability to man- the lady rams play on their way age school, social life, a job, to 2nd in state for 3A. The girls on and all her other necessities. that volleyball squad brought it And still manage to be a cap- every game and each of their op- tain of the cheerleading squad. She’s truly made the most of ponents had to suffer at the hands her time at Thurston. of Brittany’s aggressive play. BowlingSarah Pagel: Surely the bowling team AlisaFastpitch Feliciano: One of the more ag- didn’t get as much publicity as say gressive athletes Thurston has. From football or basketball. But what these her play on the basketball court to girls did surely shouldn’t be forgotten. the fast pitch diamond. She has a They had a great year with numerous work ethic the expresses leadership. state qualified bowlers, like Sarah. With her personality to back it up, she not only could be the leader but Baseball her teammates best friends. Ande Grantham and Matt Zeutenhorst: These two studs on the baseball dia- mond have played baseball since they’ve Boys Tennis been walking and have enjoyed the four seasons on baseball they’ve played for Kha Hoang: Representing boys Thurston. They’ve made their high school tennis with friendly play and skill- career unforgettable. ful tactics, this athlete grew as a tennis player and person. Growing more as a person and improving Girls Tennis his character. Sheree and Shanelle Enlow: The twins pack a punch by themselves alone. Together Track is double trouble. The twins bring attitude to their play and Bobby Cervantes: Arguably make sure they gain an ag- the fastest pure sprinter at gressive advantage over their Thurston. His elusiveness and speed guided him toward suc- opponent. After all, they’ve cess on the football field and been playing roller hockey in track. On the relay team, since they were young. running for a pass, it’s all the same for this speedster. Boys Soccer Kenny Heo: This charismatic, humorous and beloved athlete has MVP’s entertained most of the Brandon Belisario: One student body at Thurston of the best athletes here at on and off the field. His Thurston. He strives to be lightning quick speed the best he can be in the and cuts allow him to weight room, class, and shred his opponents on clubs. One of Thurston’s the soccer field. most respected and glorified student athletes.

Brittany Sebesta: One of the Golf more athletic females at Thur- Tyson Winder: The wiry body ston. She’s played at least three of Tyson gave him a nice frame sports all four years at Thurston to structure his golf swing. His and she’ll be the first to tell you knowledge of the game awarded that each one has been better than this senior with a year of new the last. Whether it’s basketball, experiences on the course. fast pitch, or volleyball. today. Eventually you will get hired; with each interview, your experience and the chance of getting hired increases. These days it is hard for any young adult to get a job. When you finally do find one, -re member that with great power comes great responsibility. If you decide not to go to con- tinue education after high school, that is a big decision to make. Luckily you can change your mind, and attend college later in life if you choose to do so. People who have college degrees are more likely to stress about the cash. You are getting the get the job over non educated people. If by Anna Provoe & Deborah Garrison education so you can hopefully get a better you have a college degree it shows ambi- ging and graduating can be job. When you are in a college, you may tion, responsibility, and that you are more Astressful at times, especially want to have a part time job. Just to keep qualified. So although you don’t have if you choose to go to college or techni- up with the payments of regular life like to go to college, you will definitely have cal school and choose to get a job as food, room, and board. Try to pay little the advantage if you do. Another thing is well. With the economy being as bad as chunks of your tuition at a time. people with college experience might get it is, living life on your own can be hard, In applying for a job, ready your- paid more too, because the employers feel depending on your job and where you go self for a rejection. Nobody is so incred- that they are more experienced and fit for to college. Most college students are living ible that they get a job immediately with the job. Most of the time, people think it paycheck to paycheck and still end up little to no work experience. Even when is required for a job but that is not always with debt. According to degreesearch.com applying to multiple jobs, it is unlikely the case. Consider that 48% of all college the average student spends about $13,000 that you might get any of them. Don’t be graduates are in jobs that don’t require a year. Also, they make about $750 a discouraged by this, however; everyone a degree according to csmonitor.com. month at their jobs, so the students usually goes through the process of rejection. But, 71% of all jobs require a college end up with about $2,700 of debt. But Just remember that Harry Potter degree according to the New York Times. don’t be too freaked out about the price, was rejected from multiple publishers With a college degree you get paid more after you have a job, you will have a before someone picked it up and it became and you also get more choices of what to constant cash flow coming in and the cost the multi-million dollar franchise that it is do. remaining will surely go down. Don’t Communication/Journalism 2% Other The Arts Undecided Law 4% 8% 11% Science 8% 10% Business 7% Medical Field/Health Engineering 25% 17% Education **Survey compiled by RamPage of most

Senior Career Paths North Thurston Seniors. 8% by Masai Hunter

Ryley Campbell (Sr.) and Alyonna Kniestedt (Jr.) have been together for a year and a half. As adorable as they are, the number one thing that has kept them close together is their honesty with one another. They have a genuine connection and friendship as Ryley puts it “She’s my best friend.”

Ryley and Aly lift each other up and have learned a lot about each other since they fi rst met through Facebook. “I’m pretty shy and he makes me feel confi dent” Aly said with a sweet smile as Ryley smiled back saying “she motivates me to be better”. The sweetest things these two do for each other range from Aly making a scrapbook of pictures out of thoughtfulness in response to Ryley asking her to prom. “He put two roses in each of my classrooms with a poem on a card asking me to prom,” Aly said. Aly and Ryley are not only high school sweethearts, but also best friends.

Tristan Olson (Sr.) and Reagan Scofi eld (Sr.) have been together for eleven months as of May 5th, but this enduring relationship hasn’t lasted because they just have so much in common. In fact, they admit that they seem to have very little in common, and yet they continue to keep fi nding new things that they both enjoy in order to make it work. They met in P.E. freshmen year and “shortly after,” Reagan admits, “he hit me in the face with a dodge ball.” Tristan’s sense of humor is something Reagan can appreciate the most about him, but she also 10% admits he can get on her nerves sometimes. He recognizes this, saying, “We make fun of each other pretty much 24/7, but yet we still trust and care for the other a lot.” They both agree that they are a very unique in the sense that they don’t act like the average high school couple. While most guys might ask a girl to prom with fl owers, Tristan made the effort to get two of his friends (Ben and Josh Watson) to act out a skit which he performed and sang to her in her English class. Reagan had to admit that his habit of fi nding interesting ways to ask her to dances has been one of his cutest qualities. “He’s done a lot,” she shares, “But I think I would have to say that getting his friends to learn a choreographed dance to help ask me to Homecoming was one of the cutest things he’s done.” For Tristan, however, the cutest thing Reagan has done is watch all three Lord of the Rings movies even when she didn’t know what was going on. Although these two have learned things about each other that they don’t always agree on, they have found how to make their differences work to their advantage. They have both enjoyed being to- gether over the past eleven months and even with Tristan’s crazy sense of humor and Reagan’s indeci- siveness, they don’t plan on letting those small differences get in between them. by Adam Byrnes by Zachery Slagle leep is something that everyone needs in our life. But s I sit here typing this article, I’m resisting the Swould you rather get up later and not get home until Adeep temptation of falling asleep. It’s 8:35 AM near sunset? Then after homework, dinner and maybe chores, it’s and I don’t recall anything I was intended to learn from my first pretty late. So why not go to school earlier, and then you can get period. I’m totally out of it right now and I could really use some home around 2:15-2:30? Even after homework and extra things, sleep. However, it so happens that my school starts at 7:30 forc- you have time to mess around a bit. Take a nap and recover lost ing me to wake up no later than 6:30. That alone for a teenager is hours of sleep if you want. Also, the weekends exist for a reason: hard, if I need an hour for my low-maintenance self, think about catching up on sleep. Life would just be more annoying if we had a high school student who is more devoted to him/her appear- to leave school every day when it’s so late. ance than I. Probably a good 45 minutes alone for getting ready Getting up at 5:30 – 6:30 AM can be tough, even I can ad- then you have breakfast and all the every morning essentials. mit to that. But what I enjoy about starting at 7:30 is the fact when Then to catch the bus? That calls for at least an hour and a half you do get home, you have lots of time left to do homework and to two hours in some cases, forcing that poor student to wake up relax. Even during sports, you still have a decent chunk left. Now around 5:30 or possibly sooner. The point I’m getting at is I am if we were to get out at 4:00, also counting sports, a normal student a total non-supporter of our schedule. Not necessarily the class wouldn’t be returning until 6:30 or 7:00, which is very late to fin- length or lunch times, none of that. The fact that we have to start ish homework. Some students actually enjoy having some time to school at 7:30 every morning becomes a drag and starts to wear relax. “I like coming home and feeling I out each individual a little bit more as each have some of the day left,” Ben Watson day goes by. (So.) told me. “Getting home late makes The motivation to go to school and me feel like I wasted the whole day,” try their best for a senior alone is hard after According to educationext, a going through three years of the same motion study was shown in California that 1 in and actions. Then senioritis kicks in, and no every 3 schools starts in the time frame of matter how bad teachers don’t want it to af- 7:00 – 8:00 AM and gets out at 1:30 – 2:30 fect their seniors, it’s like father time. It’s un- PM. Also, the brain takes about an hour beatable. Then you have incoming freshmen after waking up to function. So getting up who aren’t used to starting school so early. around 5:30 – 6:30 gives you plenty of And you know how freshmen are; thinking time to wake up the brain. And we need they’re too cool for school, so they already that, with how busy our schedule is such will have a hard time following instruction as sports. and adjusting to the atmosphere high school But even with sports, there are brings. The sophomores and juniors by now other things keeping students busy. “I know how high school is…well…no com- have lots to do after school, so I enjoy ment. getting out early. It makes my life easier,” Let’s think about this for second. Tasneem Osman (So.) explained. Students Let’s start imagining school started at nine? like her sometimes have work or activities Add six and half hours to that and you get going on after school that they must at- out 3:30. Sports go from when school gets tend. A schedule that conflicts time would out to 5:30 at the latest, making it easier just cause problems. Even if it means for families to pick them up because their getting up a little earlier, life becomes kids don’t wait for an hour after practice for a lot easier when you get home early and still have time to do their parents to pick them up. Students go home and complete homework, or just take a nap. Either way, our schedules are packed their homework and don’t have to worry about getting enough enough. sleep because they have an extra hour or so for sleep. Then early So if you are a person who thinks we should start school releases are the same deal. Start school at nine and it’d be out later, I implore you to reconsider. If sleep is an issue, just take a by two. To add on to that you could possibly wake up the next nap. But with all of the stuff we have going on in our life, wouldn’t morning and notice there’s too much snow on the roads, due to it just be easier to get out at 2:00 so we can get home and finish our school starting later, the advisors don’t have to make a judgment homework on time? I would rather not cram until midnight to fin- call on whether or not the roads are safe to drive on. Since school ish a project for science because our school gets out late. starts later it gives more time to make that call and possibly the snow could go away. All in all, I think the rewards of starting school later in the morning are more beneficial than they are now starting early. Congratulations to the fellow seniors graduating! Moving on from high school is a huge part of your life. Some of the seniors from last year have taken huge steps. From college to clinics to work, the class of 2012 has taken major steps towards their careers. Here are a few seniors who have already started with their futures.

by Zachery Slagle Have you ever wondered where you’ll be after high school? I mean you may have an understanding of where you’re going to for college and you may also have dreams by Adam Byrnes for a career. But what about until then? Will you put in the Austin (AJ) Byrnes has started school at Carol College in appropriate amount of effort and work into your dreams for Helena, Montana. He is double majoring for Business and Sports them to come true? Well that’s neither here nor there; I got a Management and currently works for the Helena Brewers as part chance to catch up with a former senior here at North Thur- of the college maintenance crew. His favorite class in college was ston who graduated last year. Business 101 and he plans to take more business-related classes in Logan Russel was one of those beloved students. the future. “High school is just the ending to the beginning; there He came to school with an adventurous attitude and had is a lot more to come”, AJ told us. To the current seniors, AJ says: swag for days. Of course he had plans after high school but “Life is going to have its difficult moments, but fight through them, he also faced reality and realized he would have to adjust to and enjoy the little victories. Congratulations to all of you seniors certain circumstances, but he never lost sight of his goal. As graduating!” In the future five years from now, he sees himself of right now Logan is working at Church of Living Water working for a Major League Baseball team. in association with the Anthem program, which is part time school/ leadership program. This way he can stay in school and still stay connected with his religious background. As far as life after high school for him, he said, “it’s full of real life responsibility but it’s really fun.” His personality brings new experiences to him and he makes sure that he lives life without regret. I asked him if looking back on high school, he had by Mikayla Bell changed as far as his personality, or his attitude, or appear- After graduation in 2012, Cassandra (Cassie) Bell has ance. He doesn’t doubt the fact that high school changed completed college at SPSCC, and is continuing work at Lacey him. He believes it’s ultimately going to happen to everyone Animal Clinic. She is taking off one year of schooling before she in their behavior, character, etc. Sure, high school changed attends Pierce Community College, to get her degree and become a Logan in a couple traits but for him, the change in his char- Veterinary Technician. acter was the least of his worries. He said he wish he gave After being promoted to Clinic Assistant and getting a high school more of a chance for his first couple years of $1.50 raise, Cassie has been working full time and has all of her school. By the time he realized that he needed to put more school tuition paid off. “I’m really excited to have my school fees dedication into high school he was ready for the challenge. paid off! I’m one step closer to moving towards my career.” She He took a couple AP classes his senior year and he wish he is currently looking for an apartment or a house to rent with her joined them sooner. boyfriend of two years. “I’m really excited to start moving on with Logan is overjoyed with the friends he made at my life. Growing up is scary, but i’m ready to go full throttle into Thurston and he says, “High school was one of my favorite my future!” times in life and I wouldn’t trade those back for anything.” Student Name Ryan Glendenning The end of the school year is fast approaching, and many seniors What university, job, or branch are getting recognized for their of military are you participat- various accomplishments. These ac- ing in next year? complishments range from earning a I am going to be attending West- scholarship to getting into that dream ern Washington University next college. Teachers also have their share year. of students they feel deserve some recognition. After talking with Mrs. You were nominated by Mr. Funston, a Spanish teacher, and Mr. Wienski. How has your experi- Hall, a science teacher, they told us ence in his class been? about a senior they feel deserves to be highlighted. This student My experience in Mr. Wienski’s class has been great. Having is always willing to participate is Spanish discussions. She is a teacher for four years straight creates an understanding of considered an excellent student in all her schoolwork and has a that teacher’s style of teaching and really allow you to thrive positive attitude, as well as only speaking Spanish in Mrs. Fun- as a student. ston’s class. Mr. Hall also commented that this student always has a “ready smile and is polite and respectful to her peers and For how many years have you known this teacher? teachers.” A former Chemistry student of Mr. Hall, she is now I have known Mr. Wienski since my freshman year, so four one of his Physics students. This exceptional senior is Charlotte years. Sadlier. One of Charlotte’s biggest accomplishments during her What was your first impression of this teacher? senior year is winning first place at the band’s last competition. I originally thought he was mean and strict, but as I got to North Thurston’s band is always top notch and this win really know Mr. Wienski, he turned out to be an amazing teacher, stood out to her. This senior has a love for science and is work- an extremely intelligent person, and a great mentor. ing toward a dream job as a forensic scientist. “I want to help put criminals away without being a cop,” Charlotte states when asked If you could say anything to this teacher, what you it be? to elaborate. Some people only see cops dealing with criminals, I would tell him, thank you for pushing me for four years and but forensic scientist help cops find them to begin with. thank you for being the best teacher I will ever have. One of the things that charlotte loves about Mr. Hall’s class is that “he gives out a partner test (basically a pre-test) Nomination reasoning by Mr. Wienski before a big unit test so you can see how much studying you will I have had the extreme pleasure of having Ryan Glenden- need to do.” A fond memory that Charlotte has had with Mr. Hall ning in my math class every year during his stay at North is when he along with Mr. Aufort used fire to blow up balloons Thurston, as a freshman in Geometry, as a sophomore in Al- filled with different gases like Hydrogen. Charlotte also mentions gebra 2, as a junior in Pre-Calculus and this year in Calculus. that she likes how Mr. Hall “is never condescending toward his Every year, he was one of the highest performing students in students. He respects his students and tries really hard to explain my class earning an A in ever semester. He is always on-task, problems and concepts.” completes all assignments on time, and works extremely well Each person has a family they find close to them, from with other students. bloodline to figurative. Charlotte’s figurative family consists of I have also had time to interact with him on a personal all the band students, whom she has known since fifth grade. basis. I know Ryan to be a conscientious, high integrity, As a senior she will have to say good bye to a large portion of dependable and sincere person. Ryan has been a tremendous this family. Out of all the things that has happened, Charlotte student and an asset to our school. can think of only one regret that stood out to her. During spring Ryan has a strong pursuit of personal and academic excel- break, a group of students went on a historical trip from Wash- lence, relentless strive for perfection, a strong ability to bal- ington D.C. to Boston. Unfortunately she was unable to go due to ance priorities, a never ending positive “I can do it” attitude, unforeseen circumstances. and has a positive influence on other students. He is eternally Charlotte is a senior who knows where she is going and optimistic, extremely hard working, considerate of his peers, what she’s leaving behind. She felt so blessed when told she had and has a deep commitment to excellence in his academic, been chosen as Mrs. Funston’s student of choice on top of being athletic, and social achievement. He is a true leader who will chosen by Mr. Hall. She also recommends that everyone take be a tremendous success in whatever career he pursues and at least one of Mr. Hall’s science classes while at North Thur- in his personal life. ston. It has been an honor to watch Ryan mature into a find Congratulations Ms. Sadlier, and good luck for the young adult over the past four years. future. What is your favorite thing Mr. Olson has four classes of just seniors for his AP about Mr. Gentry’s class? Why? Government class. That’s over 120 students that he interacts with on a daily basis. Now, I bet you wouldn’t believe it, but My favorite thing about Mr. he does in fact have a favorite student. He/she was chosen Gentry’s class is that I know every very carefully from a handful of students. However, he day I dress down and go up to the wanted to keep the student anonymous. So he’s supplemented weight room I am going to im- the name with a false one, leaving it up to us to figure out who prove, physically and mentally. it is. Or, how many people it is. What’s the best memory you The suspense was killing me as he described...Brock have had in Mr. Gentry’s class? Steel. He began with the scholarly aspects, calling him a great My best memory in Mr. Gentry’s class is when he spent an student and a fellow Social Studies and Government nerd. He entire period trying to teach Brittany Sebesta how to skip. then went on to describe why he likes the student so much. From the information he gave me, you can really tell that What’s the number one thing you like about Mr. Gentry? they have a lot in common as people. They both enjoy rockin’ Explain? the button down shirt with a pair of freshly ironed khakis. In addition to that simple thing, they love to have critical think- The number one thing I like about Mr. Gentry is that he is ing battles and debates on current, and controversial, topics. there 100% for all his students. He pushes us all to be the best “Brock has an ability to critically think that is completely that we can be as athletes and people and he is always there to astounding for his age and asks the truly important questions,” turn to when you need someone to lean on and to believe in Mr. Olson stated when asked about why he enjoys spending you. time outside of class with Brock. Is there anything else you would to add? He recalled one time in class where Brock, a “well For me personally, Mr. Gentry is one of my biggest role mod- liked student by everyone,” completely singled him out in els. I have the highest respect for him. He has believed in me front of the class when he incorrectly summarized a court from the beginning even when I didn’t believe in myself and case, and then filled in the blanks for all of his fellow stu- he has always been there to give me honest and caring advice. dents. “Brock Steel is one of the nicest kids I know. He is al- I owe a lot of my athletic success to him and who I have ways willing to help out another student and is just awesome become as a person. Anyone lucky enough to take his class in general,” a statement made ever so fondly by Mr. Olson. should not take it for granted but should always give their all in everything they do just like Mr. Gentry does for us.

Mr. Gentry’s reason for nomination:

Mr. Gentry would like to highlight Haley Harn because of her growth as an athlete and as a leader throughout the years. He had her earlier in high school and now that she is his teacher assistant for his fourth period, he realizes that her develop- ment is drastic and very impressive.

**Th e data was compiled from the RamPage surveys passed out to all senior students. If your name wasn’t entered the RamPage Staff apologizes. ** A Dramatic Exit Jazzy Seniors by Chelsie Bopp by Ben Watson eniors are annually leaving high school, his year’s music program has been one of the best so far Sand moving on to college. It is a process Twith outstanding concerts and multiple groups from all that must be completed each year, and this year is three sections of North Thurston’s music department making it to state no exception. Ms. Deneen, the drama instructor, has in competitions. Who contributes the most to makes these programs so worked with a wide variety of students during the last amazing? The Seniors. 4 years in an attempt to produce a theatrical experi- Throughout the years students gain experience and skill in ence among our school that is to be remembered. just about anything they choose to stick with. A superb example of this In the theater business, there are many dif- is Jazz Choir’s 2013 graduating seniors who show exactly what excel- ferent fields that need to be spotlighted. There are lence looks like. the stage crew, the costume shop workers, the actors, But no matter how great they are this year, every singer had the directors, lighting, and PAC tech crew. All these to start somewhere. For Natasha Smith (Sr.) it was sophomore year, different groups work together to make a produc- “because my best friend told me to and then she ended up not doing, it tion happen. Of the graduating seniors, there is a but I stayed because I liked it so much!” When asked what her favorite large amount of them moving on who were steadily memory out of all her years of singing, Natasha promptly said that it involved in drama. Jenna Doran (Sr.), Candice Orfao would “probably [be] the Jazz sleepover! It was awesome! Or anytime (Sr.), Annika Henderson (Sr.) and Mallory Halbert I’ve spent in choir with Monica Renda (Jr.) and Carly Harris (Jr.)!” (Sr.) have all worked hard as technical employees to While choir is sometimes full of fun and games, life lessons maintain the Performing Arts Center, and keep the are learned quite often and will stick with these seniors for many years shows running smoothly. They have worked beyond to come. When asked the question of what he will take away from his the average drama kid, and have gone the extra mile 5 years in choir (three of which were in Jazz), choir god Josh Watson to keep our props creative, our costumes ironed, our (Sr.) says “I learned that I can’t do everything by myself. No mat- ticket booths managed, our lights maintained, and the ter how hard I try. The main thing that I will remember that choir has everyday things that need to be tended to in the PAC taught me is that constructive criticism is a vital part to growth whether running easily. you like it or not.” When asked the same question Natasha added that Tristan Olson (Sr.) and Emily Henderson (Sr.) “I learned to be more confident with myself! You have to put yourself have acted throughout their 4 years of high school, out there in choir so it has definitely forced me to grow as a person. showing extreme enthusiasm, true talent, and notewor- I’m going to take away some great memories and friends!” thy characters. Each of them have grown as individu- However possibly the most important thing that these seniors als throughout these years, and have also made the can offer, other than their beautiful voices, is their advice. Josh’s coun- drama department evolve the way it is. North Thurston sel to underclassmen currently in, or joining choir is “respect those drama would certainly be a different story if we didn’t who have more experience than you and be willing to take constructive have Tristan and Emily to constantly lift the spirits of criticism. In singing, input from others will greatly improve your talent those around them. and ability.” Sound guidance from someone who has been in choir for Ms. Deneen wants to express that the seniors five years, four of which were high school and three spent in Jazz. moving out of the drama wing, and into the big bad Singing isn’t just a class that these students go to every day. world of adulthood and college should “work hard to It’s something that they incorporate into their very lives. Seeing as learn all that you can, build friendships and act with your vocal chords are extremely portable you can take them anywhere. integrity and character! Oh yes, have a little bit of fun Just be careful where you use them. Librarians might not take too too!” kindly if you bust out into song. Maybe in High School Musical, but not in real life. Music Memories played. Aside from the 30 to 50 people and it was maybe twelve. Next thing I by Cheyenne Watler there, we were the loudest.” The pep know a dodge ball game at four in the ust like how many people band is one of the things that Zac will morning!” He played basketball with Mr. Jstart their band career, Zac miss through high school band. One of Johnson, Valentin Parker (Sr.) and Ruby Wrinkle (Sr.) started because it was his Zac’s favorite moments in band here at Carillo (So.) at midnight during the lock mother’s choice. In the fifth grade he North Thurston was when he went to in. “Valentin and Mr. Johnson were on went to his band director and he said, Victoria, Canada, his sophomore year. “I one team while Ruby and I were on the “You can learn and play the French horn was at the Spaghetti Factory with Lau- other. Mr. Johnson and Valentin won six free of charge because no one else is.” ren Schwartz (Class of 2011), Gunner to four or something like that,” said Zac. And Zac accepted the huge horn. “Get- Lemcke (Sr.) and Jake Langston (Class Zac is also a member of Tri-M, Music ting started, if you’re not into it, and the of 2012) and it was just a cool experi- Honor Society. “I’m probably going to band conductor doesn’t make it fun for ence. I was eating good food, in another miss hanging out with the members,” your first year, you’re probably not going country, with people who became my Zac said laughing, “The music depart- to come back for another,” said Zac. And best friends.” ment is full of goofballs.” that goes with many new things. Having Being a part of NTHS band, Zac explained the things that a fun first experience will get you to love there are many traditions that Zac will Tri-M does to volunteer throughout the something and keep on going back to miss. One of the traditions is the “Third community. “We volunteer at the Food challenge yourself to play better. Quarter Rave”. During basketball games, Bank and before I was here they volun- As a senior, Zac knows what he when you see the band leave during teered at Habitat for Humanity. Later this is going to do after high school. “I plan halftime and they don’t come back till month, we are going on a trip to different on taking all of my undergraduate classes the start of the fourth quarter, they are at elementary schools to get the little ones at SPSCC and then transferring to West- the Third Quarter Rave. Zac said, “Dur- interested and participating in music.” ern Washington when I am ready” said ing that time we go to the band room, Tri-M also arranges a swing dance for Zac. Having moved three times, he isn’t and usually there is some kind of activity band, chorus, orchestra and others to worried about not making friends in col- going on that was planned like a lip sync have fun and dance. “But the biggest lege because every time he hasn’t really or fashion show this year for instance. event is the annual Tri-M Barbeque,” disliked anyone or had a difficult time Other times we play dubstep through says Zac, “and that is just another way to making friends. And about the music in Mr. J’s speakers and play with glow hang out. We go to a park and barbeque, college Zac says, “Not to be preachy, but sticks.” Tri-M members only, just to hang out practice is important. The music we do Another big band tradition is the and have fun. Usually there’s volleyball here now and then can be difficult.” But annual Lock-In. “I only went to one, but or something that we play.” some of the best parts of band are the I am missing them right now. It was fun, Being a part of band here at memories that keep forever. but not something I think anyone would NTHS has given Zac many memories Zac also shared some fun want to do more than once a year,” said that he will hold on to forever. To the experiences he had while being in band Zac. “At this lock in, it started with food incoming seniors Zac advises them to at North Thurston. “Last year during and a lot of games. There were video “keep practicing and to not give up. And Basketball season, the band went to play games in one music room, movies in the to try and set some kind of good example at an away game without Mr. Johnson. other and then the Gym for whatever. I for others.” About 15 to 20 people showed up at looked at the clock and it read about nine River Ridge. I think and we hung out and something. Later we checked the clock Orchestra Expert by Callie Wood overcome with laughter. She decided to join the class Violinist, Candice Orfao (Sr.), When asked what her favorite because she’s always been fond of fiddle has been playing the violin since the 5th piece was, she said, “There were so many tunes, she said reminiscently, and plans to grade, like most of her peers. Over the wonderful pieces that we played over the continue to play occasionally for years to past eight years she’s enjoyed playing years, but I have to choose the Pirates of come, but not for show or any ensembles. many pieces and forming bonds with her the Caribbean medley.” Despite only playing the violin, fellow orchestra students. However, her years in orchestra Candice is very knowledgeable about mu- I asked about any trips they’ve haven’t exactly been a cakewalk. She’s sic and has a deep emotional connection gone on and she mentioned a trip that the had to adapt new fingerings for music to her instrument and the friends she’s seniors in the class took last week to see she’s never read, lead her section through made while learning how to do so. the Seattle Symphony. “We went to the practices, and teach herself (and oth- Spaghetti Factory beforehand and there ers) new techniques to improve tone and was this loaf of bread...” she was then intonation. by Tasneem Osman There comes a stressful and anxious time that tends to arise when promtime is near. For many high school- ers, prom is the high point in one’s high school experience. Girls spend months of preparation trying to find the per- fect dresses, and making nail, hair and makeup appointments. Getting ready for prom is an event in itself. After waiting for that special person to ask them in a special way, students embrace the hectic prepara- tion and overwhelming rush for this one special night. The amount of time spent for these couple of hours could easily be looked at as outrageous. “[Cody and I] were preparing about 2 weeks earlier, so we could match our outfits for prom and get our group along with where we were going before... just the basic prom organi- zation.” says Whitney Vu (Sr.). However, to many students this night was completely worth it. All the glitz and glamour is well worth the effort. “In a girl’s point of view, my favorite part about prom was getting dressed up, and being able to feel like a princess for the night.” says Whitney. Kalei Sabas (Sr.) seconds that, saying, “If you can look past the expense aspect, it really is worth it!” When asked what his favorite part of prom was, Kalei replied saying, “Dress- ing in a tux and looking good!” Prom is oftentimes viewed as that magical night where everything is perfect and there is no care in the world for a couple of hours. With the music bumping, stress seems to seep out through the skin. Out of all the high points in not only high school but in one’s life, prom undoubtedly has made it to one of the highest on the list. Thurston has yet again, done a great job carrying out the expectations of the students.

by Whitney Vu

When it comes to wearing your hair under a graduation cap, the simpler the better. The last thing you want to do is try to fix an up do once you remove your cap. Here are some easy yet amazing hairstyles to try for Graduation.

Straight and sleek: A side braid: Down and wavy: To get this straight and sleek look, part A side braid is such a fun look to wear To get this look; part your hair down the your hair first. to your graduation. Part your hair middle and apply texturizing product to A middle part is best for this kind of slightly to the middle, and bring all of your hair to add some hold. Then sepa- look. Then blow dry your hair straight your hair to the side. Start braiding your rate your hair into 2-inch sections and using a paddle brush, and use a flat iron hair pretty close to the head, and secure wrap each section around a 1 1/2-inch on the bottom half of your hair to make the braid a few inches above the ends of curling iron. (A wand curler is great for sure it stays straight throughout the day. your hair. Keep it nice and loose, a bit this too). Just wrap your hair around the messy and tousled-looking. It shouldn’t clamp-less iron for a fun, beachy wave. be a too-perfect braid.

Ladies’ under robe Guys’ under robe For women, this means a knee-length or longer dress, For men, this means dress pants and a button-down skirt and top or dress pants and blouse. A nice dress is always shirt. Choose dressy but comfortable shoes, you don't want to appropriate. It should be a dress that fits the dignity of the fall as you walk across the stage and receive your diploma. ceremony, so very tight, low-cut styles and spaghetti straps are Boys and men should wear dress slacks and a dress shirt. A not as suitable as dresses with sleeves and modest necklines. tie is usually called for, so choose one in a complementary Another option is a skirt and dress shirt. Your skirt should be color and design. Make sure your shirt and pants are clean and close to knee length or longer and your shirt should be modest pressed. While the color of your slacks is a personal choice, and complementary. Women also have the choice of wearing you’re far better with neutral tones like black, brown, blue and a nice pantsuit in neutral colors such as cream, taupe, navy taupe. A simple white dress shirt is always appropriate for the blue or black. For girls and women, dressy flats or low heeled occasion. Boys and men should stick to black or brown dress shoes are appropriate and will keep your feet comfortable shoes. while you're standing and walking. Heels that are too high can get uncomfortable if you spend hours at your commencement ceremony. tend multiple events scattered throughout Olympia. “If it wasn’t for my phone’s GPS I would have been lost and late to many events,” Attila comments on a late night drive with a certain interviewer. The president also has some words describing his time spent not only in ASB but a senior in general. He calls it “The single hardest year of my life so far,” for many reasons. First and foremost on his mind, (as well as many of our school’s students) were the AP classes, and how By Kalei Sabas and Carlin Devorss much they required of him on top of his s the year comes to the end, an AP student. presidential duties. Now that the year is, Aa new ASB president has At the end of his reign the presi- over he comments that it went by much been chosen to lead a new year, while dent has decided to share some of his wis- faster than he anticipated and looking the previous offers what wisdom he has dom with those aspiring to do great deeds. back on all that has transpired. “It marks in a metaphorical passing of the torch. He has learned two lessons during his time the end of an era, and the beginning of As our president, Attila Herrera has in offi ce; the fi rst being to have initiative. another,” he states with mixed emotions. been responsible for leading assemblies, Very rarely will there be a time when there Brooklyn Falter not only has to updating information, and much more is nothing that needs to be done in ASB, live up to the glorious mantle that Attila than the average student realizes. When and students must always be prepared to has left in place, but those of previous one typically thinks of the position of seek out what needs to be done without presidents. The school has been in good ASB president they usually think of it as being told. “The second is to be in close hands, and will continue to be with Brook- nothing more than a fi gure head for all contact with the rest of leadership. Many lyn in the driver’s seat. Thank you, Attila, the “real positions”. In reality, it requires times they will know the projects that for your service in ASB, and good luck to much initiative to organize and complete they are working on, and need to be done, you, Brooklyn Falter. the average workload the ASB offi ce better than you,” he admitted. It isn’t just typically faces. Despite all the hardships, school that you must be able to go to, over Attila has remained on top of his work as his year of service Attila has had to at-

by Megan Wilson & Alissa Sorger ith May fi nally here, the one thing that seems to be on every senior’s mind is graduation. They will fi nally get the chance to W walk across the stage, receive their diplomas and enter the real world. With their year coming to an end, the class of 2013 has some helpful advice for the incoming upper-class. David Cregg: “My Melissa Luper: “My Patrice advice to the incoming advice to next year’s Mitchell: “Start seniors: Talk to Ms. Abel seniors is that if you want strong, and early and often, seek a to get a job at some point fi nish strong. leadership role doing during the year, do it Keep your head something you enjoy, sooner rather than later up and don’t and talk to underclass- because it’s worth it! give up.” men, because they’re too You’ll be glad you did.” afraid to talk to you.”

Cindy Shaw: “Do Natasha Smith: “Never Andy Amphone- tell yourself you can’t. your homework, and if you need phong: “Have fun The college or program and take it easy! of your dreams may seem help paying for college start apply- Don’t take senior like a long shot, but ap- year too seriously!” ply anyways! You never ing for scholarships know, this may just be right away. Do not the one time you are one wait until the last in a million.” minute.” policy,” she says. Due to her dedication, the school is currently working hard and with the district office to be able to allow the exchange students to graduate with their fellow classmates. As the students’ time here in America is dwindling down there are still a few things on their checklists that are yet to be crossed off. Alan had been looking forward to going to prom and being able to graduate. For Yuriko, she wanted to By Mikayla Bell and Megan Harn be a part of making a set for the spring parade. Raquel says, “Before I leave, I magine packing up your previ- got a good grade too. The whole thing was would like to visit Chinatown.” Veronika Ious life in your home country really exciting.” Although their stay in the is looking forward to going camping and only to fly to a foreign country known as US is coming to an end, their memories seeing her mom, who will come to see her the United States of America. Not know- will always stick with them. in America. Also, Tu would like to go bun- ing anyone or anything about this new Some things in this country are gee jumping and Mauricio says, “I would life in this strange land. Taking a chance, quite different from things in other coun- like to try out skydiving.” taking a risk, and taking a trip of a lifetime tries. The exchange students were able to After spending an entire school are what these seven brave exchange experience this and live in a completely students have accomplished throughout different way and learn something new. the course of this school year. Now these Tu says “I learned to ski which was really students are all filled with mixed feelings fun because I had never done it before.” as they finish up their journey here in She adds that there is no snow back home America and prepare for the long trip back for her so she had previously not had the to the lands that they each call home. chance to ride the slopes. Alan Pavec (Sr.) from France said “I did not expect so many teenagers to own cars. It is cool that they are able to drive around to places whenever they like.” Also, Raquel Domin- gos (Sr.) from Brazil says that her time in America has helped to become a more year here it is time for the exchange responsible and overall better person. students to go back to their own coun- In the past, exchange students try. Among them are mixed feelings of have not been able to graduate with the excitement to return and see friends and rest of the senior class. Veronika, however, family, but sadness at the same time to Looking back on their time be leaving the fun experiences and newly spent in America, many great memories made friends. Some are not homesick, but were created. Yuriko Sugimoto (Sr.) from ready to see their loved ones again while Japan says “going to Homecoming was others are missing their familiar homes. one of my favorite memories here.” Tu After a long stay in America, the time has Nguyen (Sr.) from Vietnam and Mauricio just about come for them to return to their Andres Toquica-Quintero from Colum- loving homes and come back with new bia (Sr.) both said that during their stay memories and stories to share with the in America they enjoyed participating in people at their homes. the school sports. “I really liked being on the swim team,” Mauricio says and Tu has played soccer and tennis, which she says were both a fun experience. Leoplold Moltubakk (Sr.) from Norway says that he was very excited to come to Ameica and be able to experience new things. For Veronika Lupke (Sr.) from Germany, her wanted to change this so that she and the favorite moments were when she worked other exchange students would be able to on a video project for history. She says graduate as well. “I decided to start a peti- “my group and I made a 1920s video for tion so that we too could walk across that history. It was really fun to do and we stage. A lot of people have signed it and I worked super hard on it. In the end we am working with the school to change the gret Re

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could just rip their actions lutely killing me.” experience is go- R apart and make them ing to my fi rst rock c r y.” concert in Seattle. Deck the Hall Ball “New 2012.” Year’s Eve “Skipping class with was fun. We got friends.” really [stupid] and it was fun.” gret Re

1. Mirrors by Justin Timberlake 26. Hotel California by The Eagles 2. Radioactive by Imagine Drag- 27. Lights by Ellie Goulding ons 28. Love Bites by DEF Leppard 3. Can’t Hold Us by Macklemore 29. Me and You by Cassie 4. Suit and Tie by Justin Timber- 30. Mean by Taylor Swift lake 31. No One by Alicia Keys 5. Stronger by Kanye West 32. Numb by Linkin Park 6. Bohemian Rhapsody by Queen 33. Peanut Butter by RuPaul 7. Thinking About You by Frank 34. Put a Ring on It by Beyonce Ocean 35. Replay by Sean Kingston 8. 22 by Taylor Swift 36. Rich Girl by Hall and Oates 9. Adorn by Miguel 37. Same Lane by Macklemore 10. All the Above by Maino ft. 38. She’s Not Just a Pretty Face by T-Pain Shania Twain 11. Apologize by One Republic 39. Sorry by Clara 12. Awkward by San Cisco 40. Summertime by Kenny 13. Baby by Justin Bieber Chesney 14. Baby Got Back by Sir Mix-A- 41. Take a Back Road by Rodney Lot Atlantis 15. Burn It to the Ground by 42. Teenage Rebel by Chameleon Nickelback Circuit 16. Call Me Maybe by Carly Rae 43. The Player by Kid Cudi Jepsen 44. The Thrill by Wiz Khalifa 17. Danza Kuduro by Lucenzo 45. Thrift Shop by Macklemore 18. Edge of Glory by Lady Gaga 46. Under the Sea by Sebastian 19. Empire State of Mind by Alicia (Little Mermaid) Keys 47. Wade in Your Water by 20. Feel that Fire by Dierks Common Kings Bentley 48. We Could Run Away by 21. Figure .09 by Linkin Park Needtobreathe 22. Free Run by Chris Brown 49. Winter Wind by Mumford and 23. Gravity by Shawn MacDonald Sons 24. Here With Me by Michelle 50. You Gonna Let Me by Pleasure Branch 25. Home by Loeka **According to 300 seniors surveyed, the above songs are the top 50. Numbers 8-50 are alphabetical, all having the same number of votes. Top 50 Senior Class Playlist 50 Senior Class Playlist Top D.O.L. Knowledge & Road Tests are now being offered at our Lacey/Olympia location. WRITTEN (KNOWLEDGE) TEST IS INCLUDED (FREE!!) with ALL enrollments in Basic/Conventional/Advanced TEEN DRIVING Courses!

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