theblazerThe Student Newsmagazine of Timberline High School Volume VIII, Issue 7 • May 9, 2008

Fastpitch on top

Girls fastpitch undefeated

18

Godspell is tonight

Godspell plays May 9-10

14The levy causes unwanted stress

See pageSee page

Will the levy pass?

9See page

Life Double The

See Pages 10-11

02 blazertalk@hotmail.com

blazer opinionmay 9, 2008

Letters to the Editor

Staff Editorial:Juggling a job and schoolBy Staff Writer Victoria Zoller

THUMBSThe opinions below represent the opinions

of a majority of The Blazer staff.

at the poles already melting at an alarming rate, an in-creasing climate will only accelerate the process. The melting of these ice formations will raise the sea level globally, which will put miles and miles of inhabited coastline under water displacing far more people than even the most devastating hurricane or natural disaster to date. -Spencer Potts, a freshman

In the next couple weeks, voters will decide on our latest levy, which determines whether to continue the current rate of school funding. If the levy doesn’t pass, extracurricular activities could be elimi-nated, or cost up to $250 per student, per

sport. The district will also face many, many other cuts if the levy fails. Of course there will be people who vote against this levy, but we really do not understand parents of school-age students who vote no. Don’t they get that a failed levy will cost them (and their children) much more than whatever tax increase they might face by passing the levy?

Good morning sunshine

Next year school will most likely start at 7:20 each day instead of at 7:55. The school district will be staggering the start times for elementary, middle, and high school.

This way the same group of bus drivers can drive for each grade level, without the need to hire more driv-ers. School will be getting out sooner, but now everyone will have to get up even earlier in the morning.

Voters who are bad at math

When news of the failed levy hit Timberline students in February, there was a mass of confusion.

What was the levy for? How much money, and what exactly is a levy? Let’s face it, most students don’t understand the intricacies of school finance. The only thing that really hit home with us was that if this levy doesn’t pass, the consequences would be catastrophic.

If the levy fails, 12 Timberline teachers could lose their jobs.

If the levy fails, athletic fees would be raised to $250. The current $75 fee is already expensive enough, what will those students who participate in sports year-round do? Some sports could also be subject to removal due to insufficient funds.

If the levy fails, the drama department could be cut. That means no more “Godspell,” or “Odd Couple,” or “Grease.”

If the levy fails, clubs and other extra-curricular activities likely will be on the chopping block. Students might have to join clubs and athletic groups local to Lacey

instead of doing their favorite activities through the school.

After opening a brand new school, it would be a shame to lose so many other assets. The voters of this community did the right thing by building a new Timberline - it was sorely needed. However, let’s hope that on May 20, the voters show that what really counts for quality schools are not how they look on the outside, but what the schools offer their students on the inside.

Dear Editor, Many things that we use every day, things that make our life simpler, or just some of the luxury items that we take for granted, are actually changing the climate of the world. While it is typically only a change of one or two degrees at a time, eventually it will change substan-tial enough to change the landscape of the world. This is definitely something that we should be concerned about and something that we need to take action on right now if we are going to avoid further damage. Since the introduction of the idea of global warm-ing, people have been skeptical about it. But the sta-tistics have proved it. One of the things people rely on most, their care are a leading contributor to the green-house gases that are causing our increasing global tem-perature. Green-house gases, like carbon dioxide, when released into the air, allow sunrays into the atmosphere, but reflect them back towards Earth when they try to leave the atmosphere. The more of these green-house gases that get released into the atmosphere, the higher our climate will become, which leads to the next ques-tion. We all like warm weather, so what is the problem with a warmer climate? With glaciers and ice shelves

Dear Editor, As a resident in an area we call the Pacific North-west, I for one, believe our community should be con-cerned about global warming. Expect more winter flooding, more summer water shortages, more destruc-tive wildfires and more troubled salmon runs and, on average, shorter ski seasons. The North Cascades have been America’s Alps, but their glaciers are melting. Glaciers lost nearly a third of their mass in the past cen-tury. There are steps being proposed by Mayor Greg Nickels’ Green Ribbon Commission that are intended to blunt these trends.The biggest impact, say research-ers from the Climate Impacts group at the University of Washington, is disrupting the annual cycle of rain and snow that quenches our thirst, waters our crops, and nurtures Northwest salmon runs. Little steps our community should be taking mainly include the simple task of recycling and using fewer things that promote carbon dioxide and release it into the atmosphere. Oth-er little changes that could slow down the process of global warming, range from reserving electrical energy by changing light bulbs and turning lights off more fre-quently, to simply planting a tree. We can no way face the inevitable changes occurring from global warming, but as a community, we can slow them down. -Dale Garcia, a freshman

Hundreds of students at Timberline have a job. Whether they work

full-time or part-time they are out in the world making their own money, taking on serious responsibilities, and putting more weight than ever on their shoulders. As a sopho-more who does not have a

job, I can not imagine how so many students manage to juggle a job and school, plus any other sports, clubs, or extra curricular activities. As it is right now I struggle to keep up with homework and having enough free time to spend with my friends as well as run errands and simply take some alone time. Amanda Johns, a sophomore, and one of my best friends has been working at Carl’s Jr. for a month and a half. She works everyday from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. and closes on the weekends until midnight. But even though she works about 32 hours a week she keeps her grades up and somehow gets all her homework done on time. Although I believe I could also juggle a job if I needed to, I know it would take a serious toll on me. Both physically and emotionally, it would wear me out because of the definite fatigue that would accompany a job in general and the stress of grades on top of my job responsibilities. So good job to all of you that are working right now, you are doing great. And those of you looking on to these hard workers: praise them as much as you can. They deserve all the support and love they can get, because unlike you, if you do not have a job, they are out in the real world, getting real experience, and real money. Take some notes from them; it might help when you finally decide to get a job.

Illustration by Madison Rollins

A failed levy would lead to several lost programs

03blazertalk@hotmail.com

What if all you could hear was 45% of all the sounds

and voices around you? You can lip-read, but you miss most of any conversation, regardless. Whenever you go to the movies, you have trouble understanding the narration, because the narra-tor’s lips are unseen. You wish

you could rock out to the other 55% of that song, too. That’s what it’s like for some people, including a friend of mine, who speaks orally although she’s deaf. On the other hand, we have another friend who will sometimes translate, although her knowledge is lim-ited. Whenever I’m with the two of them, it’s always interesting to watch: the latter speaks with some sign-ing, so everything can be understood by everyone, and the former gives her new signs to memorize and work with. Somehow, however, I feel like a loser in that situ-ation, because all I can do is finger-spell, and feel like I’m too pathetically slow to try it out. All the while, the same nagging thought lies in the back of my mind that I should have taken another look at that American Sign Language dictionary I have lying on my shelf at home;

I know that it would be kinder. Do you ever feel similar? Do you ever feel in-considerate or uncaring? You don’t have to feel that way forever. Rather, show your thoughtful-ness; not only for the deaf, but everyone: by doing all you can to keep from stereotyping others, by helping someone hoist something heavy, by showing the new kid in school to their next class, and even by resisting the powerful urge to pull pranks on that substi-tute teacher. Whenever I’m feeling down because I don’t know much ASL, I just try to remem-ber that I can do the best I can by turning my head towards my friend and including her in even the largest of conversations so she can understand and participate, too. At the same time, I struggle to keep from mumbling or enunciating too much, since either way it only makes lip-reading more difficult. And who knows? Perhaps something surpris-ingly good will result from being nice to every-one around you. For instance, I know that my deaf friend has the best sense of humor; she just needs to be included in the conversation for it to be seen.

blazer opinionmay 9, 2008

Mission Statement The mission of The Blazer is to provide the students and staff of Tim-berline High School and the surrounding community with a quality, thought-provoking publication. We aspire to print a publication that adheres to professional journalism standards, including sincerity, truth-fulness, accuracy, impartiality in reporting news events, and equal rep-resentation of opposing sides. The Blazer will serve as a public forum for the free exchange of information, opinions, and artistic expression in a civil and constructive manner.

Student Submissions Works submitted by students not on the staff, particularly letters, editorials and artistic expression, shall receive the highest prior-ity for publication as long as they fall within the realms of good taste according to the standards of the readership. Letters to the Edi-tor must be typed or written legibly. The Blazer will print as many submissions as space permits and request that all submitted work include the contributor’s name, grade, and signature. The Blazer re-serves the rights to edit all submission for content, accuracy, spell-ing and grammar. All student work must be submitted in the Blazer

Staff Room, room #108. Written work may also be submitted via email at blazertalk@hotmail.com.

EditorialsThe opinion section of The Blazer will serve as a public forum for thoughtful, well-written forms of expression. Bylined editorials repre-sent the views of the author. Non-bylined editorials represent the views of a majority of The Blazer staff. Views printed herein are meant to be opinionated and do not necessarily represent the opinions of the Tim-berline faculty, administration, or the North Thurston School Board.

Advertising The Blazer will not accept any advertising that we believe to be factu-ally inaccurate; designed to mislead, deceive or defraud; containing malicious, vindictive, or unsubstantiated attacks; offering goods and/or services illegal for all teenagers to possess, buy or use; libelous; obscene; creating imminent danger or disruption to school. Advertise-ments do not necessarily represent the views or endorsements of The Blazer staff or the Timberline faculty, administration, or the North Thurston School Board.

Editor-in-Chief: Wonsok LeeNews Editors: Sacha Haia, Cody LuceroArts and Entertainment Editor: Alex KocikFeatures Editor: Madhura PanjiniSports Editor: Nathan MorrOpinion Page Editor: Victoria CarrollBusiness Managers: Melissa Jones, Amanda AngleStaff Writers: Lindsay Keith, Kalli Toompas, Nicole Mercer, Patrick Carroll, Melissa Dailey, Jessica Lord, Delas Raiford, Lindsay Ulschmid, Amy Gripp, and Victoria ZollerGraphics Staff: Madison Rollins, Jeannie Sin,Sean Van Ausdal, Cassie Goodwin, and Anthony Collins

The Blazer Staff

Timberline High School • 6120 Mullen Rd. SE • Lacey, WA 98503 • (360) 412-4860 • blazertalk@hotmail.com

Every is-sue The Blazer invites a member of the Timberline community to be a guest col-umnist for the month. This

month’s guest is Abraham Clark, who shares his experiences as an ASB Presi-dent, and passing down the office. About a year ago, I promised you a “Bigger and Better” Timberline. While I can’t take any credit for many of the improvements, you know, the gum free desks, the non-stench bathrooms, or the new teacher-toy microphones, I hope

I can claim that together as an ASB we have helped improve Timberline and have had some fun at the same time. Being on ASB this year has brought lots of good times, and plenty of awk-ward looks for sure. I will always cher-ish the memories of spilling thirty gallons of water all over the gym floor in the winter as-sembly, passing hot chocolate out in the morning, and running around in purple-striped spandex while getting drenched in the dunk tank during spirit week. After all, aren’t these the types of things lead-

ers are supposed to do? This may come as a surprise, but as ASB officers, we do more than just tor-ment you by playing mmmbop one thou-sand times straight in one week. We also

have an oppor-tunity to partici-pate in many ac-tivities that the general student body doesn’t get a chance to see.

For example, each year the ASB officers get to present a plan for Timberline in front of the school board, travel to Ko-machin to brief upcoming freshmen and their parents, and help determine funding

for next year’s activities. In general, we act as representatives of Timberline to the community while planning activities for the student body at the same time. Time has passed and our term is nearly at its end. I understand you may have slight withdrawals when you don’t hear “good morning blazers” in an ev-er-enthusiastic voice, see Chad’s video masterpieces, or have the opportunity to laugh at Jared (I mean with Jared), but I am confident that your new ASB will be able to keep the good times coming, and I’m sure that Jared will be able to fill my shoes. Make sure you help them out by being even more spirited and enthusias-tic about school next year. Go Blazers!

I live to run into burning buildings

BE O

URGUESTAbraham Clark

Signs can speak louder than wordsBy Staff Writer MeliSSa Dailey

Illustration by Jeannie Sin

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By Staff Writer MeliSSa Dailey

AP Art Program to begin Sept. 2008 An advanced place-ment art program will be offered at Timberline start-ing next year. For some, the program will provide a unique opportunity. “It [the AP art program] gives

a wider variety of students the chance to be successful,”

said Aimee Leggett, art teacher. Participating students will be required to se-lect a theme to utilize the entire year, and complete 30 pieces of work to be sent to the AP board in that time. “Half [of the 30 pieces] will have to demonstrate their flexibility and skill with different mediums and style. The other half demonstrates ability,” said Leggett. At the very end of the year, a performance-based exam will be taken. Currently, a similar advanced art is offered at Tim-berline, but the test is optional. “The class isn’t that hard as long as you practice your drawing and always have your imagination going,” said Chelsea Burnes, a senior, currently enrolled in advanced art. With 30 pieces to be completed in the AP program, the new intensity will provide a challenge that will benefit the students. “It [the advanced class] made me more interested in art. Knowing the vast world of art past high school gives you the incentive to work harder now,” Renee Wyman, a sophomore, said. Heather Mendez, a junior, who joined the class at the year’s midpoint, plans on joining the AP program. “I’m looking forward to taking this new class next year and learning more exciting ways to brighten the world with art,” Mendez said.

Varsity Baseball Field Vandalized On the evening of April 24, Timberline’s varsity baseball field was vandalized. Items including Blazer banners were damaged and stolen, estimated at $2,000 worth, but the games will commence unaffected. “It bothers me when any property is stolen or dam-aged in any situation,” said Paul Dean, athletic director, “It’s just not right.” Students are concerned by the incident as well. “I

don’t really understand why people would do that sort of thing,” Quentesa Garraway, a sophomore, said. “You don’t mess with stuff that’s not yours, and if you do, you own up to it,” she said. “Whoever did it probably looks down on Timber-line,” said Ken Matchawate, a senior, “They probably think they can get away with it and no one can do any-thing about it.” The authorities are at present in charge of determin-ing the offenders, but it is suggested that anyone who knows anything concerning the vandalism should call Crime Stoppers.

Flemister once 75th world at Guitar Hero Guitar Hero, espe-cially popular since Guitar Hero II’s release in 2006, may be played worldwide, but that doesn’t mean the top rockers are necessarily far from home. Jordan Flemister, sophomore, has at one point reached the 75th place in the

world. “It’s cool people think you’re amazing, but being good [at Guitar Hero] is not really something I want to be known for, because it’s just a video game,” said Flemister. “It’s a time-passer,” he added. Current Guitar Hero rankings are posted on the game’s main website, and also the leader boards on X-Box Live, but having a high standing may not always indicate actual guitar-playing skills. “If you really want to play guitar, you can learn better playing by ear with a real guitar,” said Katie Griggs, a sophomore, who also plays Guitar Hero. KEY Club Plans Next Projects Kiwanis Educating Youth, known as KEY club, is preparing for new activities for the rest of the year. “Our Timberline Key Club is beginning a new series of char-ity projects aimed at improving our school, our com-munity, and our earth as a whole,” said Erin Adams, a sophomore and KEY club president. KEY club members met in their four separate com-mittees and brainstormed upcoming tasks besides the face painting booth project for the Lacey Fun Fair on May 17. “My committee was trying to think of organi-zations to work with to raise money for,” said sopho-more Anne Barkis, a sophomore and KEY club trea-surer. The committees came up with ideas including adopting an endangered animal, raising money for UNICEF, raising money for a scholarship, picking up garbage, and helping at a soup kitchen.

may 9, 2008

“Just for the Halibut”Commentary, humor, satire, and possibly another fish joke, by Jeannie Sin

TIDTHS BITS

“Heard in the Hallway”

“ - Anonymous (as always)

Q: What is your favorite TV show?T1: Degrassi because it is about real stuff in high school.T2: The Fresh Prince because Will Smith is sexy. But his ears are kind of big.

Q: If you could describe your sister in one word, what would it be?T1: Daring because she has bungee jumped.T2: Nosy because she looks at my messages on MySpace.

Q: What is the biggest difference between you two?T1: I’m more girly.T2: I’m more outgoing.

Q: What is your favorite food?T1: Rice and beans.T2: Rice and pork chops.

Q: Are you each other’s best friends? T1: No, her best friend is Jose.T2: No, her best friend is Jon-Jon.

Q: Do you like being twins? T1: Sure, if I have to be.T2: I guess...

Q: Do you get of sick people telling you that they wish they had a twin? T2: Hecks yeah!!!

Q: Do you two want to be my new best friends?T1 & T2: For real!!!

By Staff Writer DelaS raiforD

Every issue of The Blazer, a staff member is cho-sen to go out in the hallways of Timberline and get to know someone new. Meet Genesis and Genesia Riveria, freshmen. Based on the picture above, see if you can guess which twin is T1 and which is T2.

Your armpits remind me of summer.

“

Chelsea Burnes, senior

Jordan Flemister, sophomore

Halibut?

FRIENDMY N

EW

best

Answers:T1 is Genesis (on right).T2 is Genesia (on left).

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blazer news 07blazertalk@hotmail.com may 9, 2008

Photo by Sean Van Ausdal

“”

We hope to live up to this year’s ASB, keep the good ASB going, and get everyone in-volved.

-- Tashi Kerr, a junior

By Staff WriterS Kalli toompaS and lindSey UlSchmid

Elections 2008 Last week elections were held to choose Timber-

line High School’s 2008- 2009 Associate Student Body (ASB) Officers. On May 30, nine students

ran for office after one week of campaigning. They were judged upon their speeches and reasons they thought they were best for each position. Jared Thorne, ju-nior, was elected president; Jordan Bowen, junior, was elected vice president; Tashi Kerr, junior, was elected treasurer; Brittany Berin, junior, was elected secretary; and Brett Pantier, sophomore, was elected as public re-lations officer. The ASB has been a part of Timberline since it opened in 1970 and is responsible for developing and managing the budget that funds clubs and athletics, and also communicating to the student body and organizing community service and other activities. The officers need to be dedicated to the school be-cause they’re not only responsible for themselves and their class but also the entire student body. “I like someone who is motivated and won’t quit until the job is done,” said Pantier, the new public re-lations officer. The ASB is also a chance for students to voice their opinions and make a difference in things that matter to them. “I want to make the school [a place] where more people are welcome and having fun; more of a family atmosphere,” said Throne, the new ASB president. The ASB officers are the student body’s leaders and decision makers. Therefore, they have to have good leadership qualities and be able to communicate effi-ciently with all types of people. “You have to have good people skills. It is important to be someone that people feel comfortable to follow or confront if they have any suggestions or new ideas,”

said Megan Sinclair, 2007-2008’s ASB secretary. Being outspoken and contributing ideas and opinions is a vital quality of the ASB officers since they are responsible for making assemblies and extra actives entertaining to the student body. “They [the ASB officers] need to be someone who puts out their ideas,” says Thorne. “They need to be good team members as well.” The ASB has to be able to treat everyone equally and find creative ways to get everyone involved. Erica Barron, a sophomore explains that an ASB officer should be kind to everyone, have leadership skills, and be able to cooperate with other people other than people in your group of friends. They should also be creative in planning, fundraising, and school activi-ties. Being an officer also requires a lot of dedication, hard work, and a lot of time before and after school planning different events. “ASB officers need to have good time management

skills because it’s a lot of work. They also need to be able to let loose and be involved,” said Kerr, the new treasurer. On Friday, June 13, Timberline will say goodbye to this year’s officers: Abe Clark, president; Chad Robischon, vice president; Me-gan Sinclair, sec-retary; Jared Bell,

treasurer; Madlen Glainyk, public relations. This year’s student government was responsible for the drive in movie, walk in movie, California fire relief, Stop the Bop, and the various assemblies. The 2007-2008 ASB officers left behind a positive legacy that next year’s hopes to continue. “We hope to live up to this year’s ASB, keep the good ASB going, and get everyone involved,” said Kerr.

ASB 08-09President: Jared Thorne, junior

“I’m excited for the fun we’re going to have and just hanging out.”

Vice President: Jordan Bowen, junior

“I’m most excited to have some sweet events and working with cool people.

From left to right: seniors Jared Bell, Madlen Glainyk, Megan Sinclair, Chad Robischon, AV technician Jeff Peltier, and senior Abe Clark. The old ASB officers show their emotion as their reign comes to a close.

Treasurer:Tashi Kerr, junior

“I’m not going to say what my ideas are yet, you will just have to wait and see.”

Secretary:Brittany Berin, junior

“I’m excited to get more involved within the school and build-ing up the school spirit.”

Public relations:Brett Pantier, sophomore

“I’m excited for the assemblies.”

Class electionsMay 14th

To buy your yearbook now before they are gone...

Pay $65 in the activities office to reserve your

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Sometimes you aren’tthe only one that your decisions affect.

blazer news 09blazertalk@hotmail.com may 9, 2008

True life: without the levy

Before you voteGet Informed

By News editor sacha haia

Photo by Sean VanAusdalTimberline Dance team members show their support at a sign waving May 2 on the corner of Ruddell and Yelm Highway.

The levy makes up 16 percent of the district’s operating budget.

Did you know that the state only pays for 5 hours of student learning and the levy funds support the additional hours.

The levy pays for classroom teachers and student programs including the arts, athletics, special education and more.

NTPS estimated levy rate is actually lower than Olympia ($2.27) and Tumwater ($2.28) school districts.

If the levy fails the, district will have to cut $17.5 million from levy-funded programs.

Timberline alone would stand to loose two or more teachers by failure of the levy.

It has been proposed that student athletic fees will rise anywhere between $200-$250.

All games that require a distance as far as Capital High School, will require students to find their own means of transportation.

The estimated cost of the levy will cost homeowners $2.18 per assessed property valuation. However, due to the change in population the rate of the levy will fluctuate.

Sources: 2- Year Replacement Maintenance and Operations Levy pamphlet, and Principal Dave Lehnis

Has one seen the signs, at-tended the meetings, or heard discussion about it in the halls? Well, those 11X15

yellow posters with the large check, at-tached with an encouraging “Vote Yes” means more than you think to the NTPS district. Imagine not having the finances to cover programs such as music/art, ath-letics, AP courses, and more electives, even vocational and gifted programs. They mind as well not be imagined, because if the two-year replacement maintenance and operations levy is not passed on May 20th those programs will be severely changed. “I see school as another home” said Immanuel Garraway, a junior. Garr-away’ attachment to school and his in-volvement in many activities have him concerned about the levy. But perhaps his biggest cause for concern is his defi-nitely has his concerns of fifth grade sis-ter who, is enrolled in the special educa-tion program at Lydia Hawk. “She is really sensitive to the way people look at her. If you look at her funny or your tone of voice changes she gets really upset and needs to be calmed down,” said Garraway. Because special education teachers and instructional as-sistants are not required by law, there would be a reduction of those staff members if the levy fails. To Garraway and his family, this is a cause for great concern. “It would be hard to see one teacher to every four or five special needs kids. I would want to do something about it, but I just don’t have the power,” Garraway added. The two-year replacement maintenance and operations Levy is not a new tax to the NTPS district, however it is replacing the existing levy funds that are on the verge of ending. The previous rate of the levy was $1.83, per $1000 of home value which was taxed on all homeowners in this district. However, with the estimated 35 cent raise being asked, there are some homeowners that find such raises more of a burden. Opponents of the levy have voiced great concern in the increased tax due to the levy. Some homeowners who do not have children that attend school in the NTPS district find it hard to pay a higher rate in tax when their family is not partaking in the NTPS education. There are also those who believe that if adminis-trators’ paychecks were not so large the district would have no need to tap into the pocketbooks of tax payers. District officials say that it is very important for voters to be informed about the levy. The district has held public meetings at the district office and local schools. Meetings are open to anyone who has questions about the levy, and to those who want the latest news. At a meeting on Thursday, May 17, community member and parent Chris Birge had said he had voted no for the levy. After discussion with facilitators and board members Birge had admitted his vote was wrong. “I should have listened to what my wife told me,” said Birge. Whether one agrees with the levy one thing can be as-sured, if the levy fails all schools in the district will bear sig-nificant cuts. Timberline alone is at risk of losing at least 12 teachers. Two of those teachers, CTE teachers Kelly Boyer and Michael Dixon, were informed that because they are newer teach-ers and teach business courses they would be the first cut. “Without teachers and the extracurricular activities it would be like a cake with absolutely no frosting,” said Brooklynne Adams, a senior.

blazer news10 blazertalk@hotmail.commay 9, 2008

Life Double The

When you walk into Timberline High School during passing periods, you will view a wide variety of faces, a rainbow of skin colors, and a plethora of cultural styles. In fact, Timberline consists of 3.1 percent American In-dian and Alaskan Native, 11.4 percent Asian, 11 percent black, 6 percent Hispanic, and 65.6 percent white students. With such a largely diverse

population certain nationalities can sometimes be drowned and become unnoticed among the masses. Each culture has a significant impact in shaping the character of Timberline. Many students whose parents were not born in the United States live “double lives.” They adopt American views and lifestyles while still being active in their na-tive cultures.

However, some students find that they have a hard time trying to do things Amer-ican teens are allowed to do, mostly because their parents have different morals. “They [parents] are pretty open-minded about some things, but they are pretty strict. They don’t really let me stay out late, they don’t want boys in the house; they just freak out whenever I mention it,” said Katherine Yoo, a freshman. The same goes for her brother, Scott Yoo, a senior, “They [his parents] want me to date a nice Asian girl, who is also Christian.”

The distinctions between American culture and other cultures can sometimes be polar opposites. Teenagers especially have to decide whether to follow the cultures their parents have tried to instill in their lives or the great American way. “Since I grew up in America, I don’t always see very many differences; but for my grandpar-ents who have lived in Korea their whole lives, it is a completely different world,” said Tashi Kerr, a Korean junior.

It appears to be a tug-of-war between cultures, and the principles are the same regardless of nationality. Parents from foreign countries tend to be more protective of their children; they try to bring them up the way their parents raised them. Akeem

Bannis, a senior, whose parents are from the island of Dominica, which is located in the Lesser Antilles of the Carribean, has the same dilema. “They don’t want me go-ing to the movies or parties, they’d rather me be at home than doing other stuff. My parents are still stuck in the past and the way they were raise. That’s how they want to raise me,” said Bannis.

Shaina Thompson, a senior, has maternal ties to Korea. She also experiences difficulties in trying to be an American teenager while simultaneously embracing her Asian roots. “She’ll [her mother] say ‘Back in my country…’., when compar-ing American culture to Korean culture all the time. She doesn’t understand dating, teens, how they act now, or why Americans are so lazy,” said Thompson. Her struggle seems to stem from her mother’s Korean-tracked mind.

Ndubeze Nwala, a senior, whose mother is native to Nigeria, said, “She [his mother] gives me a hard time about any place I want to go. She doesn’t like me going out every day or coming home late.”

On the contrary, for some students there is little or no conflict with their culture and American values. “My parents are very accepting because they know what it’s like to be a minority,” said Adan Michel, senior. His parents give him very few prob-lems with his attempt to adjust to American society.

Immanuel Garraway, a junior, whose father is from the island of St. Vincent, located in the Caribbean, has no problems at all. “Everything is normal. I guess since my mom is American, I don’t have problems trying to do anything,” said Garraway.

Ceremonies and traditions define students’ culturesMelissa Rodriguez, a senior, had a traditional Mexican Quinceañera two years

ago. It its typically celebrated on a girl’s 15th birthday. “It is like a step you take into womanhood; you step away from childhood,” said Rodriguez, describing the reason

Students with foreign

roots struggle with being

“American,” while remaining

immersed in their native

culture. By OpiniOns EditOr VictOria carrOll and staff WritErs pat carrOll and nicOlE MErcEr

Illustration by Madison Rollins

blazer news 11blazertalk@hotmail.com may 9, 2008

for having this coming-of-age ceremony. Quincea-ñeras are more unique than simple birthday parties. They are most equivalent to American sweet six-teen celebrations or Jewish Bar Mitzvahs.

“Usually what happens is you go to church and say a few prayers. Before you leave the church, you leave a rose for the Virgin Mary, because we are Catholic. You have a reception where you have to dance with 14 guys. The dance is kind of like a Waltz, so you all dance at the same time, you just switch dance partners. Halfway through the dance, you stop and your dad puts different shoes on your feet. Then he puts a crown on you. You have to dance with a doll, because it is the last doll you will ever own since you’re becoming a woman. After that you dance and have fun. Then it’s like a regular birthday party,” said Rodriguez, explaining the process of a Quinceañera. For Rodriguez, this event was truly a life-changing part of her becoming a woman and embracing her Mexican heritage.

Other students of the Korean culture partici-pate in a special ceremony on the Chinese New Year. “On New Years, we wear these formal dress-es, we do a formal bow, and say what we are all thankful for. The adults give us money, and kind of critique us and tell us how we can be better for the next year,” said K. Yoo.

Nwala, celebrates his Nigerian roots on the Nigerian Independence Day on Oct. 1 every year. “We just eat a lot of food and party it up in Se-attle,” said Nwala.

Family matters Students of foreign cultures at Timberline val-ue family time and special gatherings.

“We eat dinner together every night. We all go to church together. My mom was very poor grow-

ing up, and family was all she had,” said Thompson. “Every Sunday is our family day; no friends over and no going out.”

For the Yoo siblings, family is a large part of their everyday lives. “We sit and talk about the previous week to make sure we communicate,” said K. Yoo. “We try to do everything as a family,” said S. Yoo.

Many Mexican families within the

Timberline community like to let the good times roll. Particularly, Rodriguez and her family use their parties to form close bonds with one another. “On the weekends we do Mexican-style barbe-cues. We dance, sing, or watch movies, and we do this almost every single weekend. We also watch Mexican soap operas. Most of the time the major-ity of Mexican families watch them,” said Rodri-guez. The Mexican culture is known for its parties and fiestas. Timberline’s race pallet is multifaceted, and as a school, the administration has tried to shed light on the different races within the population with clubs like Cultural Awareness. It also puts on the Cultural Awareness Assembly each year in Febru-ary, which gives students the chance to share danc-es and songs they perform within their culture.

American Indian3.8%

Asian12.6%

White63%

Black9.2%

Hispanic9.4%

Adan Michel, senior

“We’re always having big parties. Any excuse to and we’ll have one.”

Students speak outNT

PS R

acia

l Sta

tistic

s

“My grandma passed away so every New Year’s and Thanksgiving we set a place for her at the table and leave the door cracked so that her spirit can come in.”Sunny Lee, junior

New Years we wear these formal dresses... and say what we are

thankful for. The adults give us money, and kind of critique us and tell us

how we can be better for the next year.

“

“--Katherine Yoo, freshman

Akeem Bannis, senior

“To keep togetherness, we have at least five family relatives come stay at our house for Christmas.”

Source: The Off ce of the Superintenant of Public Instruction

Immanuel Garraway, junior

“We play Wii, board games, and watch movies together. Sometimes we go out to dinner, like any other family would.”

Timberline students tell more about the significance of close-knit families within their cultures. They participate in traditions passed down, and constantly make new ones.

Complete Pro Shop & Open Bowling & 32 Lanes

Automatic scoring943-2400

Westside Center, Olympia

blazer news 13blazertalk@hotmail.com may 9, 2008

By Staff Writer LindSay Keith

Prepping for prom2-3 weeks prior to prom

1 week prior to prom

9 a.m. of prom day

Noon of prom day

3 p.m. of prom day

6 p.m. of prom day

9 p.m. of prom day

1-3 a.m. after prom

“I work at Ricardo’s and they are setting up my group’s din-ner with a nice room and 4 course meal, so we have dinner all taken care of,” said James Montague, a senior.

“Sleeping in until about noon to get well rested before Prom,” said Quincy Turner, a senior.

“I will be in my room wearing my Sponge Bob Square Pants Boxers and socks eating Coco Puffs while playing San An-

dres Grand Theft Auto on my Xbox,” said Akeem Bannis, a senior.

“Most likely, I will do some final touches; make sure I look sharp and pleased with my appearance. Then probably be driving to the gas sta-

tion buying gum and Arrowhead water then going to pick up my date and then the night begins,” said Mike Jones, a senior.

“My date and I will be fin-ishing up dinner with our group then into the limo and off to the dance,” said Andrew Taisipic, a senior.

“Prom will be over and some of my friends are most likely coming over and we are all just gonna chill and do whatever we want,” said Scott Gagnon, a senior.

“Giving Mike Jones a run for his money in NCAA football and giving the smack down on some pizza,” said James Weston, a senior.

“I have only my tickets. I just haven’t gotten everything yet,” said Jamie Schoen, a senior.

2-3 weeks prior to prom

1 week prior to prom

9 a.m. of prom day

Noon, prom day

3 p.m. of prom day

6 p.m. of prom day

9 p.m. of prom day

1-3 a.m. after prom

“I just got my dress from a store called Cache, which still needs to get hemmed, but I am not sure where we are going for dinner still,” said Kailea Worcester, a senior.

“I have everything pretty much done, all I have to do is buy my tickets,” said Sunny Lee, a junior. “I’m ready to get my dance on and excited to be with my senior girls,” she said.

“I will be running in a track meet at Mount Ta-homa,” said Erica Legaspi, a senior.

“I will be getting my hair done at Unique Hair with my friends Kailea Worcester and Maddie Glainyk because my appointment is at 2 o’ clock,” said Ana Landeza, a senior.

“I will be just getting back from my hair appoint-ment, putting on my light pink dress and starting my makeup,” said Lyndsie Molenelli, a senior.

“I will be with all my friends at a restaurant called Claim Jumpers in Tacoma and we plan on be-ing fashionably late to the dance,” said Bess Boname, a senior.

“I will be at the fast-pitch districts in Tacoma probably playing in my second game,” said Danielle Colburn, a senior. “Hopefully we will be on our last game because last year we didn’t get done until 7 p.m.,” she said.

“Probably something I shouldn’t be doing. I mean, it is my se-nior prom, I’m going all out,” said Ariel Starr, a senior.

On May 17, many blazers will be preparing for prom. The girls are on the left, guys on the right: to show their contrasting differences.

illustrations by Jeannie Sin

blazer arts & entertainment14 blazertalk@hotmail.commay 9, 2008

F irst seen by audiences in 1971, “Godspell” has always had a following of those who love it and those that hate it. Based upon The Gospel of St. Matthew from The Bible, the play is a modern telling of the life of

Jesus Christ. In a way much like “Jesus Christ Superstar,” this play is updated each time it is performed, with new music additions and added lines, to tell a story of people coming together. Writer Stephen Schwartz wanted to give the savior an updated appearance by using actors fresh out of drama school to play out the last supper in a downtown diner, crucifixion upon a junk yard fence, and being resurrected by being carried through the streets of New York City. Brenda Amburgy, Timberline performing arts instructor and director, and Terry Shaw, choir instructor and music director, did not stray far from the original intent with modern twists to Stephen Schwartz and John-Michael Tebelak’s original

production of the teachings and life of Christ. Timberline Theatre Company’s uses a cast of eight men and eight women, and music that is “more rock now than the easy-70’s style it was written in,” according to Shaw. Opening with The Doors’ “Break On Through” with images of war and violence flashing on the screen behind the comatose actors, the Monty Python-esque lines chirped amongst original lines, and the constant costume changes throughout the production exhibit the freedom of the actors. Each cast member plays themselves, in a sense, as new lines with modern twists (such as Jesus saying “Oh my dad”) are welcome and each casts member’s character name is that of the actor. A modern twist on a well-known Broadway production, “Godspell” utilizes North Thurston Performing Arts Center as Timberline continues construction. Closing night, an event looked forward to each year, tomorrow beginning at 7:30 p.m.

Tonightat 7:30 pm!

photo by Anthony CollinsKaity Dilley, Kaitlyn Johnston, Michael Berry, Lauren Cook, John Redmon, Tom Hyde, Symphony Canady, Steven Steinhoff, Gabe Escobar, Matthew Parret, Erin Adams, Braden Buttelo, Angie Sink, Caitee Borges, and Elaine Hruby sing “Prepare Ye the Way of the Lord” in the opening scene of “Godspell.”

blazer arts & entertainment 15blazertalk@hotmail.com may 9, 2008

photos by Anthony Collins

Actors opt out of “Godspell”By A&E Editor AlExAndrA KociKAnd StAff WritEr Amy Gripp

A few students who have been active in past Timberline drama productions were unwilling to participate in the annual musical this year, “God-spell.” Decisions for not performing in this musical range from religious reasons, impassive feelings, or simply being too busy. Because “Godspell” is often considered a re-ligious interpretation regarding the life of Jesus Christ, religion was thought to be the main reason for some not participating. Rebekah May, junior, said, “I have heard that a lot of [people] involved in drama wouldn’t do it because it was mocking reli-gion.” Senior Jared Bell said, “Religion did play a role in my decision. But it wasn’t like my religion was banning me from performing. It was more of a per-sonal decision.” Junior Miranda King had other reasons for not performing. “The music just wasn’t interesting,” said King. “There was no spark with the play, and I decided to do tennis.” Although some students chose to not participate in the performance of “Godspell” because of their moral values, students such as senior Jasmine Jordan

were just too busy with school and work. “I had just received a promotion at my new job,” said Jordan. “And with being a senior class officer, I just didn’t know enough about the play to sacrifice the time.” Students like Ben Barria, a senior, who had par-ticipated in last spring’s “Les Miserables,” felt in-different to “Godspell.”“I wouldn’t call it a veto,” says Baria, “it’s just that nothing particularly caught my interest.” Senior Chad Robischon had feelings similar to Baria. “It just wasn’t my cup of tea,” said Robischon. “I don’t think anything could touch ‘Les Misérables.’” Although “Godspell” has generated feelings of tension, there are students such as Elaine Hruby, who feel that although it has religious connotations that have sparked debate, trust in the instructors is key. “I think that everyone has the right to believe what they want,” said Hruby. “I have enough faith in Mr. Shaw and Mrs. Amburgy that they wouldn’t produce something that would show the drama department as negative.” “Godspell” music advisor, Terry Shaw, feels that any controversy adds to the play’s appeal, if any-thing. “Every student has the choice to audition, just as any other show,” said Shaw. “There will always be controversy, and the controversy is what makes the production interesting.”

(Clockwise from left) Jesus (John Redmon), Elaine Hruby and Caitlin Borges sing “By My Side”; Judas (Steven Walker) in mime makeup after betraying Jesus; the whole cast joins in on “Prepare Ye the Way of the Lord”; Kaitlyn Johnston sings “Long live God” just before “The Finale” ; Micheal Berry, Tom Hyde, and Gabe Escobar fall under Angie Sink’s spell in “Turn Back, O Man”

blazer sports 17blazertalk@hotmail.com may 9, 2008

O n an unsurprisingly dreary and cloudy day, the Blazer track team

went to compete at the Shaner Invite at Tumwater High School on May 2. At the invite, the girls team placed fifth and the boys tenth, both out of 11 teams, for an overall finish for Timberline at seventh place. Track is one of Timberline’s most versatile sports with distance runners, jumpers, sprinters and throwers all mak-ing up the team of 55. With such a large team, track is by far the largest sport at Timberline. Understandably, with such a large team, it is sometimes hard to “get a sense of team-unity,” Gabby Hampson, a junior, said. Christina Johnsen, a senior discus thrower, agrees. “We all warm up as a team, but all the actual workouts are sep-arate, so it is hard to bond,” she said. Though it may seem that much of track is an individual sport, it really isn’t—everyone depends on each other just as much as any other sport. It is a group effort to make sure that everybody competes. “Track truly is an individual team sport,” said Erica Legaspi, a se-nior. At a track meet, each event has a first, second and third place, each correspond-ing with a decreasing number of points. At the end of the meet, each school adds up the number of points their athletes, boys and girls, earned and the school with the most points wins the meet. This season, the girls have a record of 3-2 and the boys a record of 0-5 at press time. But, to make it to state, league re-cords don’t matter. Instead the individu-als or the relay teams have to place in the top seven at districts to make it through to state. Todd Taylor, Special Ed teacher, has been the head coach at Timberline for the last eight seasons. “This year, I think that our 4x100 relay team has a good oppor-tunity to get to state. Our league is proba-bly the toughest for our 4x100 team. Our 4x1 relay team is made up of freshman Brianna Welsh, junior Kiki Chaney, and seniors Susan McLane and Erica Legas-pi,” Taylor said. “We are pretty consistent in our training. The commitment is growing on the team. We [the coaches] have taken a harder line at making sure that players show up to practices so that we can im-prove our standings,” Taylor said. Steven Berube, a sophomore dis-tance runner, agrees with Taylor. “I know that everybody competitive has hopes of making it to state. I think that this year, we have a higher potential to make it. That is because we have more personal dedication to practice and because of our coaches,” he said. Track has consistently fared well in

Track soars over obstacles

state, managing to place in some event for six of the last six years. Johnsen placed 6th last year in discus throwing at state. Robert Sanders, a senior sprinter, just wants to “bring the glory home. This is my senior year, so I want to go out with a bang at state.” Though hopes run high on the team to make it through subdistricts, districts and then onto state, this season, there have been injuries that have held back some players on the team. “This season, we have had plenty of nagging things like shin splints and quad pulls. But overall, we have had five to six larger injuries,” Taylor said. “The worst injury that has occurred so far is when Sebastian Belcher was running the two mile and fell, which

caused him to break his elbow,” Nolan Flammini, a sophomore distance runner, recalled. Legaspi has also faced some injuries that has made it hard to compete consis-tently throughout the season. “I injured me left ankle during the wrestling season. So, when I came into the track season, I was afraid of re-injur-ing my ankle by pole vaulting or jump-ing hurdles. Then, I twisted my good an-kle during a rugby game and was out of competition for three weeks -- I felt like crap because I knew I could have beat the other girls,” Legaspi said. “But, [though I have been injured a lot this season] it is my senior year. I hope to make it to state, not necessarily for my individual competition, but as a relay team,” she added.

Weather doesn’t stop track The weather has played a significant role in canceling and rescheduling games in other sports this spring season, but not so much for track. “The weather has been terrible, but it hasn’t really affected my throwing,” Robert Sanders, a senior said. “The weather has been pretty bad at the meets. We get more time when we run in bad weather. We haven’t got-ten our best times until last meets when the weather was nice,” Steven Berube, a sophomore said. Rachel Estep, a junior distance run-ner, agrees with Berube. “Our times re-flect the weather-- especially the wind. Track is a tougher sport that doesn’t get cancelled for anything but lightening,” she said.

Trevor Crump, a junior, (above) flies through the air during his long jump on April 25 in a track meet against Yelm.Shaina Thompson, a senior, (upper right) throws javelin at the same meet. Rachel Estep , a junior, (lower right) runs in the two mile at the same meet. Both the girls and the boys lost the meet, 78-81 and 41-107 respectively.

By Features editor Madhura Panjini and staFF Wirter jessica Lord

Photos by Anthony Collins

blazer sports18 blazertalk@hotmail.com

worldmay 9, 2008

Ontop of the

The Blazer fastpitch team is undefeated and is determined to win the state championship.

When playing the classic childhood game king of the hill, she was always king. Now when playing the competitive high school sport, fastpich, Annaleisha Parsley has quickly

distinguished herself as king of the mound. Along with her catcher Taylor Smith, this dynamic duo of star pitcher and catcher has led the Blazer fastpitch team to an undefeated season and a top seed in the Western Cascade Conference playoffs. “[When on the mound] I don’t see the crowd, I don’t see the batter. All I see is Taylor, my catcher, my other half,” said Parsley, a senior.

Parsley has thrown two perfect games, one against the North Thurston Rams and the other against the Shel-ton High Climbers; winning 4-0 against North Thurston and 15-0 against Shelton. A perfect game is when the op-posing team does not reach first base at all throughout the entire game. This means no walks, no errors, and no hit batters, hence the name “perfect.” At press time the Blaz-ers are 17-0.

Consistency in offense and defense has been the key to the Blazer fastpitch team this season; only allowing a total of three runs in all league games but scoring 191 runs total. Just in the week of April 21-25 the team scored 44 runs and allowed a single run against all combined oppos-ing teams.

“For another team to beat us we have to beat our-selves,” said Smith, a senior. “We have enough talent

that the only way a team will beat us is if we make mental errors, which translate to mistakes in the

game.”

Challenging Capital Cou-gars

On April 23 the Blazers played their first game against the Capital

Annaleisha Parsley and Taylor Smith have led the Blazers with their pitcher and cathcher combination.

Photos by Anthony Collins

By News editor Cody LuCero aNd sports editor NathaN Morr

blazer sports 19blazertalk@hotmail.com may 9 , 2008

Annaleisha Parsley, a senior, winds up against the Capital Cougars, where the Blazers won 2-1.

Taylor Smith, a senior, runs to home base to score a run against the Cougars.

Gatalina Schuster, a sophomore, slices a ball foul to left field in her at-bat against Capital.

Bythenumb3rs

3The Blazers have only

allowed three runs to the opposing league teams

all season.

Pitch, hit, run

Cougars, the league’s second overall team, and came off to a shaky start. “In the first inning, Annaleisha’s first two pitches were balls, so we were really nervous,” said Smith. The Cougars went on to score one run in the inning, but the Blazers bounced back when they came up to bat scoring one run off of a base hit by Parsley, who reached third base on past balls, and then Smith’s stolen base allowed Parsley to score from third on the overthrow. “We got really excited and pumped when we came back and scored two more runs,” said Parsley.

In the fifth inning Parsley got out of a bases loaded jam after Danielle Colburn, senior centerfielder, caught a fly ball fired home and then Smith threw the ball to second to catch their runner off guard. From that point on the game was a pitcher’s duel; the final score was 2-1 with the scoreboard in fa-vor of the Blazers.

After defeating the Cougars once, when strolling into the sec-ond game against their league ri-vals on May 1, the Blazers had a new attitude. “We felt a lot more confident because there were a lot of nerves in the first game, but in the second game we knew that out playing abil-ity as individuals and as a team was superior to Capital’s abili-ties,” said Ashley Raben, a senior and second baseman.

Raben was right; they defeated Capital High School again 3-2 at Jefferson Middle School. As opposed to the game on April 23, the Blazers were at ease this time around. “One of the girls hit a home run off Annaleisha and it was nice because we could just laugh it off unlike other teams who would typically get nervous. We knew we had the game under control, and that one run wasn’t going to bring us down,” added Raben. “We had a really good two out rally in the second inning, we had really good hits and half way through the order we had scored three people.”

Enhanced leadershipLeadership has also been a contribution to this

year’s Blazer fastpitch team. The five returning seniors have demonstrated leadership qualities as well as mak-ing the game enjoyable. “There are a lot of seniors, and

all captains,” said Smith. “We have fun all the time, it’s more of a family feel and we know how to pick each other up.”

Colburn feels that this year the team has a different mentality on and off the field. “People are actually will-ing to change, they’re coachable,” said Colburn. “There is no drama, we are just a team, it is easier to help each other out.”

Returning to stateAfter last season’s disappointing loss in the state

playoffs to Bainbridge High School, the Blazers are looking to return to the tournament brackets, but this year, to dominate their opponents. “I was upset and

surprised last year when we lost state. Upset because we did not make it farther, but

surprised because we didn’t think that we would make it that far. The feel-

ing wasn’t that bad though because we knew we’d be coming back the following year, especially because we only lost one senior. The team we lost to at districts ended up winning state, but we only lost by one, so we feel con-fident for this year,” said Megan

Birge, a senior. “We had a taste of it last year,

but we crumbled under pressure,” said Parsley. “But this year, we’re

dominating as a team.”The team feels that their success in the

regular season will lead to winning in the state playoffs. “The players actually believe that we can win state this time around, as opposed to just dreaming,” said Smith.

“I feel like we’re going to do a lot better this time because last time we were just trying to make it to state and we got tired at the end. This year we’re ready and expecting to do well. Last year it was only about mak-ing it to state, this year it’s more about placing at state,” said Raben.

With five returning seniors, the fact that it is their last chance at state has been an underlying factor in their success. “This is my last shot and last chance to play with these girls as a team, I have to give it my all now so I won’t feel like I came up short,” said Parsley.

191

12

A total of 191 runs have been scored by the Blaz-

ers this season, while only giving up four.

With their powerful offense the Blazers have

hit 12 runs as a team.

We had a taste of it last year, but we

crumbled under pressure. But this year we’re

dominating as a team

- Annaleisha Parsley, a senior

“

“

blazer sports20 blazertalk@hotmail.commay 9, 2008

UTSTIM

E

30 second

By Staff Writer Victoria Zoller

Ultimate Frisbee at Timberline Ultimate Frisbee at Timberline is not only a 40 member club, but also a 15 member team. Timber-line is the only South Sound high school team. At press time the team had a record of 2-0 in Olympia’s adult league. On April 13 they played their biggest rival, Evergreen State College, and won 14-11. “This year we’re on our way to becoming the best,” said Scott Yoo, a senior. Many members of the team are serious assets added Yoo who listed seniors Jordan Auvinen and Jamie Schoen, as well as lead-ing scorer Dana Warman and Ducky Hewitt. “With-out the girls we’re nothing,” said Yoo. Every Sunday the team has games at LBA park. 2008-2009 Cheerleading Squad The week before spring break the squad held tryouts in the commons. Tryouts included learn-ing all of the basic motions, kicks, jumps, chants, cheers, and a dance routine. Besides learning all of the cheer moves the la-dies had to be interviewed by Bess Boname, an out-going senior captain, and by Angela Stewart, cheer coach and math teacher. Returning cheerleaders included sophomores, Missy Ayres, Ana Velasco, Shelby Collins, Jas-mine Santillan, Hailey Hilligoss; juniors, Victoria Carroll, Christine Hatfield, Kayla Maxwell, Ash-ley Akramoff, Virginia Bice; and mascot, Brittany Brownell. Plus, the three new captains: Collins, Car-roll, and Bice. Initiation into the new squad, on April 21, re-quired the new cheerleaders to perform the, “Fight Song,” whenever their crown was removed from their head.

Tennis teams off to a rough start The girls JV and C tennis teams have had a tough season. Out of the 12 games played so far this season, at press time, five of them have been can-celed. “We’ve been rained out so many times, and have had to reschedule all of them, which is a pain,” said Ariel Thurman, sophomore. The rescheduled and rained out games, although disheartening, didn’t make the players lose any en-thusiasm. “The girls have incredible spirit. I enjoy those guys so much; they make me happy out there on the court. Plus, their dedication has increased,” said Kati Halmos, coach and math teacher.

JV Boys Soccer With 11 games completed at press time, the JV boys soccer team has a season record of six losses, three wins, and two ties. The boys are feeling like there are improve-ments to be made. “I guess we are doing pretty well. We could improve a lot more in areas like touches on the ball, not just sitting there watching the ball, and shooting,” said Francisco Barros, sophomore. In addition to the improvements the boys feel they need, all the new players are really coming in handy for the rest of the team. “A lot of the new players have a big impact, and a good one at that. They help us with the games and a lot of them are leaders as well,” said Barros.

By editor-in-chief WonSok lee

Photos by Sean VanAusdalOn April 29 during a Clover Park match, Alexa Marmion, a senior, stretches to reach the for the ball.

“Love all.” No, this is not some corny pick-up line by a guy, but what the lady blazer tennis team says at the beginning of every match. The Timberline girls’ ten-nis team has taken a new spin on the season with dras-tic changes. The team has undergone new leadership as Katie Halmos, math teacher, is the new head coach. “I did not have any prior knowledge from last year’s season. I started from brand new,” said Halmos. “My initial goal was to get into good sprinting shape for the team, but the weather rained us out.” Some players had been with last years coach for several years, so the change was a hard adjustment. “She has been really good so far, she tries her best,” said Kayleen Tabil, a sophomore. “I like her new coaching style because it brings the team closer.” Due to excessive rain throughout the season, the girls’ tennis team had several practices and matches cancelled. “We used to do kickboxing and palates when it rained out. Now we just go home,” said Alexa Mar-mion, a senior co-captain. With constant cancellation, the team had trouble unifying together and getting into a rhythm, a factor that was shown throughout the season. “We can improve on staying unified as a team be-cause we do not practice much because of the weather,” said Megan Sinclair, senior co-captain. “Our spirit got shut down due to the rain and make-up games,” said Halmos. The Timberline girls’ tennis team ended the sea-son with a loss to Yelm on May 2 making their record 5-10. Both singles players won their matches in straight sets. Number one singles player, Tabil defeated Holly Dunbar 6-2, 6-2 and number two singles player Tay-lor Jones, a senior, beat Samantha Solorio 6-1, 6-2. The blazers could not pull off the win as all three doubles teams failed to win.

Even though as a team they were weak, Tabil domi-nated the competition. In two years on varsity, she re-ceived her first in league loss of her career this season to Lena Macomson of North Thurston. Tabil had beaten her twice last year and once already this year, but on April 23, Tabil lost in straight sets, 2-6, 3-6.

“She im-proved from when I beat her this year. Her serve, volleys, and drop shots were all on,” said Tabil. “I try not to get frustrated about it and move on because I have three wins on her.” As the 2008 season comes to a close, Halmos is certain that this team will have a dras-tic turnaround in the years to come.

“I have a bunch of sophomores and freshman that I see potential for next year,” said Halmos. Sub-districts were held on May 7 and 8 at Bally Total Fitness. Tabil is highly favored to go through sub-districts with ease onto districts which will be held next week. “My goal is to think positive and to face all chal-lenges head on in sub-districts,” said Tabil.

Kayleen Tabil, a sophomore takes a ready stance to attack the ball against Clover Park.

No love for tennis