Being as it is Super Bowl week and the Super Bowl weekend, I thought is fitting to focus on a Vince Lombardi quote; after all, he is the man the Super Bowl trophy is named for. Coach Lombardi once said, "Individual commitment to a group effort--that is what makes a team work, a company work, a society work, a civilization work." Though we think our roles as students, parents, and teachers may be rather insignificant at times in the larger scheme of a school community, our individual commitment matters. If our commitment is lacking, the whole will feel the effects.

Mr. Peery always talks about how the individual can change the world for the better because it's the only way positive change has ever been facilitated. Our individual commitment to being the best student, parent, or educator we can be really impacts our SHHS community as a whole. So, to steel Coach Lombardi's admonition, let's continue to commit to making our SHHS team the best it can be, and if we need to recommit, hey, let's do it!    

Skyhawk Highlights:

SHHS's Production of Annie Get Your Gun: Our SHHS students did a fabulous job presenting Irving Berlin's classic Annie Get Your Gun as this year's school musical. The cast did a great job with their performance, and it was obvious that all involved invested a lot of time and preparation into the show. Hearty applause go to Ms. Jana Lee Stubs (director), Mr. Justin Bills (musical director), Erica Gebert, Reagan Fausett, Katie Newman, KC Johnson, Wyatt Mullen, Spencer Sackett, Monson McKay, Thomas Flinders, Jace Salcido, Olivia McKay, Amanda Flinders, Jackson Badger, Jershon Nielsen, Samantha Mable, Jenna Rhodes, and the rest of the ensemble and technicians who made this such a great production! We look forward to your next SHHS show!

SHHS Students Sign National Letters of Intent: Wednesday, February 3 was National Letter of Intent signing day for football and soccer, and we had three of our students here at SHHS sign letters of intent to play these sports collegiately: Adrene Harding, Cooper Smith, and Zach Simmons. Adrene Harding signed to play soccer at Utah Valley University; Cooper Smith signed to play football at Southern Utah University; and Zach Simmons signed to play football at Northern Arizona University. Congratulations to these seniors and we look forward to watching them compete at the next level.   

SHHS Students of the Month for January: Our SHHS science department teachers recently honored students in their classes who exemplify greatness in character and effort here at SHHS. Those students, as nominated by their teachers, include Taj Poulsen (nominated by Mr. Shuler), Evan Jack (nominated by Mr. Graham), McKynlee Wilson  (nominated by Mr. Gillie), Jessica Hall (nominated by Mrs. Lyman), Ashlynn Horrocks (nominated by Mr. Haskell), and Eldon Moser (nominated by Student Council). Congratulations to these students of the month and thank you for being strong examples of Spirit, Heart, Honor, and Success!

SHHS Cheer: Our cheer team did a great job finishing 3rd at the state cheer competition held last Saturday at Riverton HS. In addition to their 3rd place finish, three of the eight students honored as Academic All-state recipients at the competition were from our high school: Amber Bailey, Maddie Meuter, and Makell Spencer. The team will next compete in Anaheim, California on February 13 at the West Coast Chamipionships. Congratulations to Coach Cindie Simmons, Coach Carrie Best, and the team for their awesome finish at state, and good luck in California!

SHHS Wrestling: Our wrestling team performed well at their Divisional Tournament held this week at Wasatch HS. The team advanced 11 wrestlers into the state competition and finished 4th at the tournament. One of the many highlights of the tournament was an epic triple-overtime match that featured SHHS wrestler Jaxon Van Tassell; Jaxon came up just a point shy in what may be the precursor to the state championship match at 170 pounds.  Congratulations to Coach Don Van Tassell, Coach Eric Macdonald and our SHHS Wrestlers for their tough showing at the Divisional Tournament: Ryan Larsen (106) 3rd place, Chyler Zeeman (113) 4th place, Bryton Sheperd (120) 7th place, Noah Pattersen (126) 2nd place, Austin Davis (132) 5th place, Merrell Morley (138) 3rd place, Justin Martin (145) 3rd place, Dylan Christensen (145) 4th place, Kyle Larsen (160) 3rd place, Jaxon Van Tassell (170) 2nd place, and Brig Hughes (Hvy) 2nd place. Good luck at State!

SHHS Drill: At last Thursday night's Region VIII drill competition, which was held here at SHHS, our Lashays performed really well and qualified for the state drill competition. At the region competition, three SHHS Lashays were honored with All-region honors: Kelcee Davis, Alyssa Clark, and Kaylee Bradley. Also at the region competition, Courtney Hiatt was awarded the team's Hero Award; Taisha Howard, Keilani Fifita, Courtnee Herbert, Alyssa Clark, and Morgan Blanchard were awarded Academic All-region.

At the state competition, which was was held at Utah Valley University this week, Thursday, February 4, the team competed well before being eliminated from the competition. As part of the competition's honors, however, Taisha Howard and Courtnee Herbert will be recognized for making the All-state drill team, and Taisha Howard and Keilani Fifita will receive Academic All-state honors. Congratulations to the drill team and Coach Emilee Stokes for their awesome region and state performances!

Skyhawk Happenings and Information:

• There will be a Sweethearts Assembly on Friday, February 12, and the annual FFA sponsored Sweethearts Dance will be the next day on February 13 at 7:00 PM in the auxiliary gym; it is a boys choice dance.
• Our Parent Teacher Conference for this 3rd term will be on February 17 beginning at 3:30 PM and will go until 7:30 PM.
• Anyone interested in being a part of the Salem Hills Track & Field team, there will be a Parent Meeting for athletes and their parents  on Tuesday, February 23 @ 7:00pm in the SHHS Cafeteria.  If you are interested in track, please make every effort to be present at this meeting, as Coach Thompson will cover all critical information for the season and complete mandatory paperwork.
• Everyone is encouraged to come join the track team!  The Salem Hills Track Teams both finished last year as Region Champions and placed 3rd in State, and this year the team looks to continue to build on this success.  All athletes are welcome: sprinters, jumpers, distance runners, hurdlers, and throwers!  No matter your body type or experience, Coach Thompson would love to have you join our great SHHS track program!  We hope to see you on Tuesday, February 23!
• Wednesday, February 24 will be a Freshman Day here at SHHS and visiting freshman will come for basic school orientation; that day will also be a minimal day and school will be excused at 11:15 AM. 
• Our Awesome PTSA would like to make our educational community aware of the following announcement: It is time to "Show Your Love For Your School" by donating to the SHHS PTSA Family Donation Drive. This will start on Monday, February 8. This is the main source of funds used by the Parent Teacher Student Association (PTSA) for providing programs, teacher appreciation, senior scholarships, and to help fund equipment needs for our school. Your student will come home with an envelope for you to send your donation back with them to return to their English teacher.  If you are unable to donate, please sign and return the envelope anyway because the English classes that return 100% by February 19 will be rewarded!  Thank you for your support!
• The Salem City Library is hosting a young adult book cover redesigning contest.  Contest participants will submit their design for a cover of a popular young adult title. Three winners will be awarded cash prizes. Applications are available at the Salem City Library or can be downloaded at salemcitylibrary.org/teens. The contest will run until February 29.
• Registration for AP tests ends Friday, March 11. To register click on the link under the student tab on the SHHS webpage or go to https://user.totalregistration.net/AP/450399 . Each exam costs $96.00. There will be a late fee of $10 after March 4.
• March 1, 2016 is the date that seniors need to have the state civics test completed by if they haven't already done so.  Seniors who haven't taken the test need to complete it on their Canvas account on a school computer. The school's computer labs will be made available on March 1, 2016 for those who need to complete the test.
• Seniors who are interested in applying for an Academic Letter in Fine Arts, Business, Social Studies, Math, English, Science or a Foreign Language need to go to the counseling office and pick up the Academic Letter information. Each letter has different requirements for applicants to complete. Seniors may apply for as many letters as they would like as long as they meet the requirements. All applicant information must be turned into SHHS Department Chairs by April 14.
• Salem Hills High School and Nebo School District now have OverDrive! OverDrive is an online collection of eBooks and audiobooks that are available to students 24/7. OverDrive can be used online through the link nebo.lib.overdrive.com or through the free app on your tablet or smart phone. Your user name and password is the same as your Nebo School District computer login. For more information, please see Mrs. Rawle in the Library.
• Student Spirit Shirts are available in the bookstore. They come in Navy, White, and Columbia. They can be purchased individually for $8 dollars or as a pack of three for $20. Support our school, its teams, programs, clubs, and organizations by wearing your Skyhawk pride with one of these awesome shirts!
• SHHS attendance policy states that for students to be eligible to participate in a sport, musical performing group, or other extracurricular activity all attendance detentions from the previous term need to be served. For those who need to serve detention time, detention will be held before school in room C 209 with Mrs. Edmondson, and during lunch, and after school in room C 207 with Mrs. Hernandez. The cost is $1 before and after school; lunchtime detention has no charge.
• Remember to share all the awesome , inspiring, and heroic things that are going on at SHHS with #shhshero.
• Be sure to like us on facebook at https://www.facebook.com/salemhills.skyhawks?fref=ts

Next  Week at a Glance: (2/8/16 - 2/13/16)

Monday: Offseason Football Workouts in the Weight Room @ 7:00 PM

Tuesday: SHHS Boys and Girls Basketball here versus Wasatch HS (Girls Varsity @ 5:15, and Boys  Varsity

                 @  7:00 PM)                                          

Wednesday: SHHS Wrestling at State Tournament (Utah Valley University)

                        Offseason Football Workouts in the Weight Room @ 7:00 PM

                        SHHS Evening of Concertos @ 7:30 PM in the Auditorium

Thursday: SHHS Wrestling at State Tournament (UVU)

                    SHHS Swimming at State Tournament (BYU)

                    SHHS Solo and Vocal Ensemble (3:00-6:00 PM)

                    Offseason Football Workouts in the Weight Room @ 7:00 PM

Friday: SHHS Swimming at State Tournament (BYU)

              Sweethearts Assembly @ 9:55 AM in the Auditorium

              SHHS Boys and Girls Basketball here versus Springville HS (Girls Varsity @ 5:15, and Boys  Varsity

                 @  7:00 PM)      

Saturday: Soccer Open Gym @ 6:30 AM

                   Sweethearts Dance @ 7:00 PM in the Auxiliary Gym 

Welcome to term 3! I can't believe we  already have half of our year behind us. I reminds me of running a race. I'm not the greatest of runners, but I enjoy running and have run a few races over the years. My second favorite point in any race, next to finishing of course, is when I reach the halfway point. I know that since I've made it halfway, I will have the strength and stamina to finish because it's less than what I've already done. 

 As we start a new term and work our way towards the end of this year, I would encourage all of us to finish strong and to live by the great Abraham Lincoln's admonition:  "I do the very best I know how, the very best I can, and I mean to keep on doing so until the end." If we follow this great admonition and finish this year strong, we'll be able to look back at the events of this year with a great sense of satisfaction and accomplishment because, hey, we're half way there!

 Have a great week!    

Skyhawk Highlights:

SHHS Cheer: Our cheer team won the southern region championship in their division which was held here at SHHS on January 16. They will next compete at state on January 30 at Riverton HS. Congratulations cheer!

SHHS Girls Basketball: The girls are playing well in Region VIII with wins over Uintah HS, Payson HS, Maple Mountain HS , and Wasatch HS. They next face Payson HS in Payson on January 26 at 5:15 PM. Come and support our Lady Skyhawks as they contend for the Region VIII title! 

SHHS Wrestling: Our wrestling team got a good win this week against Spanish Fork HS. They will travel this weekend to St. George to compete in the Pineview Invitational as they prepare for the Duals State Championship on January 27 (region champion home sites) and 28 (Maverick Center), Divisional Tournament on February 3 and 4 (Wasatch HS or Alta HS), and the State Tournament on February 10 and 11 (UVU).    

SHHS Boys Basketball: The boys basketball team was able to even up their region record this week at 2-2 with a win over Springville HS last Tuesday night. They hope to continue their winning ways  and move to 3-2 in region when they face Payson HS on January 26 at 7:00 PM. Come and support the team as they compete in this highly competitive region!

Skyhawk Happenings and Information:

• The Senior Dinner Dance/Masquerade  will be this Saturday, January 23.
• FBLA and DECA are currently sponsoring a food drive for the local food bank. All grades are competing against one another, and whichever class gets the most canned/packaged food wins a very special trophy to be displayed here at SHHS. All food should be dropped off at the front of the school in each class's assigned boxes: sophomores are to deposit food items in the red boxes, juniors in the blue boxes, and seniors have the yellow boxes. The competition will go on for 2 weeks... so hurry! Support your class and support this cause!
• The SHHS Winter Musical, Annie Get Your Gun, will open on Thursday, January 28 at 7:00 PM.
• Also on January 28 our School will be hosting the Region VIII drill competition.  The competition will begin at 6:00 PM, and doors will open at 5:00 PM.
• January 28 we will also be the date for the school's 3rd annual Poetry Out Loud competition. Great prizes will be awarded to the winners. Participants are required to select and memorize two poems from the Poetry Out Loud database. To participate, sign up with Mr. Fillmore in room C211 prior to the competition date.
• The Salem City Library is hosting a young adult book cover redesigning contest.  Contest participants will submit their design for a cover of a popular young adult title. Three winners will be awarded cash prizes. Applications are available at the Salem City Library or can be downloaded at salemcitylibrary.org/teens. The contest will run until February 29.
• Registration for AP tests ends Friday, March 11. To register click on the link under the student tab on the SHHS webpage or go to https://user.totalregistration.net/AP/450399 . Each exam costs $96.00. There will be a late fee of $10 after March 4.
• March 1, 2016 is the date that seniors need to have the state civics test completed by if they haven't already done so.  Seniors who haven't taken the test need to complete it on their Canvas account on a school computer. The school's computer labs will be made available on March 1, 2016 for those who need to complete the test.
• Seniors who are interested in applying for an Academic Letter in Fine Arts, Business, Social Studies, Math, English, Science or a Foreign Language need to go to the counseling office and pick up the Academic Letter information. Each letter has different requirements for applicants to complete. Seniors may apply for as many letters as they would like as long as they meet the requirements. All applicant information must be turned into SHHS Department Chairs by April 14.
• Our Spirit, Heart, Honor, Success service project for January and February will be helping Bailey Wall raise money and awareness for a library and shelter in Ghana. Please support Bailey in this amazing service project by attending the Star Wars movie and costume contest night on January 27 at 6:00 PM. The cost is $5 with funds to be matched by Doterra. 
• Salem Hills High School and Nebo School District now have OverDrive! OverDrive is an online collection of eBooks and audiobooks that are available to students 24/7. OverDrive can be used online through the link nebo.lib.overdrive.com or through the free app on your tablet or smart phone. Your user name and password is the same as your Nebo School District computer login. For more information, please see Mrs. Rawle in the Library.
• Student Spirit Shirts are available in the bookstore. They come in Navy, White, and Columbia. They can be purchased individually for $8 dollars or as a pack of three for $20. Support our school, its teams, programs, clubs, and organizations by wearing your Skyhawk pride with one of these awesome shirts!
• SHHS attendance policy states that for students to be eligible to participate in a sport, musical performing group, or other extracurricular activity all attendance detentions from the previous term need to be served. For those who need to serve detention time, detention will be held before school in room C 209 with Mrs. Edmondson, and during lunch, and after school in room C 207 with Mrs. Hernandez. The cost is $1 before and after school; lunchtime detention has no charge.
• Remember to share all the awesome , inspiring, and heroic things that are going on at SHHS with #shhshero.
• Be sure to like us on facebook at https://www.facebook.com/salemhills.skyhawks?fref=ts

Next  Week at a Glance: (1/25/16 - 1/30/16)

Monday: N/A

Tuesday: SHHS Boys and Girls Basketball @ Payson HS (Girls Varsity @ 5:15, and Boys  Varsity

                 @  7:00 PM)                                          

Wednesday: Fundraiser Costume and Movie Night in the Auditorium, Star Wars @ 7:00 PM

Thursday: SHHS Hosts the Region VIII Drill Competition @ 6:00 PM

                    SHHS Opening of the Winter Musical, Annie Get Your Gun @ 7:00 PM

Friday: SHHS Region Swimming @ The University of Utah

              SHHS Boys and Girls Basketball here versus Uintah HS (Girls Varsity @ 5:15, and Boys  Varsity @   

              7:00 PM)

              SHHS Winter Musical, Annie Get Your Gun @ 7:00 PM

Saturday: SHHS Region Swimming @ The University of Utah

                   SHHS Winter Musical, Annie Get Your Gun @ 7:00 PM

Attached is our SHHS PTSA Newsletter. We appreciate all they do for our school and community.

                                             PTSA ANNOUNCEMENTS JANUARY 2016

We will be joining the Battle of the Bands with Maple Mountain High School!  This is a State competition, so winners will have the opportunity to continue on.  I am waiting on confirmation of due dates for applications and the competition date (which we have tentatively planned for March 17th). For entry packet and rules, go to http://www.utahpta.org/battle-bands-packet.  Contact Angela Rogers at rogerskk [at] yahoo.com for further information.

"Show Your Love for Your School"   Starting February 8th we will be holding our annual PTSA donation drive (formerly known as March Madness)!   We are asking each family to donate at least $5.  This is our main source of funding for all that we do.  It is used for teacher appreciation and birthday gifts, teacher conference dinners, Reflections and Battle of the Bands competition awards, Respect Week, Senior Scholarships, and all of the other great things our PTSA does for our school!  If you are not able to donate your time, this is a great way to show support and love for our school.  Donation envelopes will be sent home with your student.

Our PTSA Student Officers for this year are: Co-Presidents: Abbie Hawkins and Christian Towse; Vice-Presidents: Lexi Hansbrow and Monson McKay; Secreatary: Janelle Slater; Respect Week Committee Leaders: Linda Taeger, James Colyer, Cassie Bennett, McKay Ashton, Chance Palfreyman, Mallory Hanks, and Kyla Rogers.

Respect Week is March 21st-25th.  Our student officers and committee are planning some awesome activities for this week.  The themes for each day are as follows: Monday - Respect for Family, Tuesday - Respect for Self, Wednesday -- Respect for Others, Thursday -- Respect for Community, Friday -- Respect for School.

Teacher Appreciation Week is March 28th through April 1st.

Don’t forget the Book Fair- buy one get one free coming April 25-29 in the auditorium common area.

Thanks to all who at at Cafe Zupas for our school night on December 1st.  We will be having another Cafe Zupas School Night on April 12th.  Up to 25% of sales comes to our school, but you have to let them know you are there to support Salem Hills High School.  Put it on your calendar now!

Munchie Mondays was off to a great start this year and we want to thank all of our volunteers who donated time and goodies to help the teachers feel appreciated more frequently than the typical Teacher Appreciation Week. We'd like to thank, Jayne Clare, Haley Stiles, Laurine Jack, Connie Sokol, Karen Weight, Ronda Slater, KennaJean Hamaker, Tancy Eyre, Liz Sly, Mason and Eliza Lindstrom, Heather Hansbrow, Stephanie Ashcraft, Cindy Ellis and Maggie Wiltshire

We are in need of more volunteers to finish out the year. If you would like to know more or would like to volunteer, please text or call Jileen Meservy at 801 400 1925 or sign up to help here: http://www.signupgenius.com/go/10c0c48abae2ea5fc1-munchie. Happy teachers are better teachers! We know a little appreciation can go a long way!!! We love our SHHS Faculty!

If you've read one of my newsletters, you're well aware that I like to incorporate quotes into the current state of affairs, that I attempt to write to, regarding our school and our school community. True to form, as I was thinking about our arrival at the halfway point of the school year, I came across this quote by Wislawa Szymborska  and recognized its application to our school community: "Every beginning is only a sequel, after all, and the book of events is always open halfway through."

Though we're halfway through the 2015-2016 school year, we have the opportunity to start an amazing sequel to our efforts and endeavors of  2nd Term. We have the opportunity to, depending on our current course, get things going in the right direction, keep things going in the right direction, or take our direction beyond where we've been. This halfway point is a great time and place for our sequel, and I look forward to the sequels and chapters that are yet to come from all the members of this school community. Have a great second half to this school year!  

Skyhawk Highlights:

SHHS Wrestling: Several of our wrestlers participated in the Iron Town Duals last weekend, and they competed well. Kyle Larsen and Justin Martin placed 1st in their weight divisions; Ryan Larsen placed 2nd in his; and Caleb Macdonald and Austin Davis each placed 4th in their respective weight classes. Congratulations to these wrestlers!

Skyhawk Happenings and Information:

• Thursday, January 14 will be the last day of 2nd term.
• The deadline to make class changes is this Thursday, January 14 at midnight.
• Friday, January 15 is a Teacher Development Day; there will be no school for students.
• This Saturday, January 16 our school will host the Southern Regional Cheer Competition. Come and support our cheer team as they compete for the regional title. Our team will perform at 11:20 AM; the cost is $8.
• There will be no school on Monday, January 18, as it is Martin Luther King Day.
• Tuesday, January 19 is the beginning of third term.
• The Senior Dinner Dance/Masquerade  will be Saturday, January 23. The cost is $20 payable at the finance office. Please prepay by January 14.
• We are presently selecting a sophomore boy and girl to represent Salem Hills High School at the HOBY (Hugh O'Brien Youth) Leadership seminar this spring at Aspen Grove. For application details, sophomores should see Mr. Gillie. The deadline to apply is January 22. 
• Registration for AP tests starts Tuesday,  January  19, and ends Friday March 11. To register click on the link under the student tab on the SHHS webpage or go to https://user.totalregistration.net/AP/450399 . Each exam costs $96.00. There will be a late fee of $10 after March 4.
• The SHHS Winter Musical, Annie Get Your Gun, will open on Thursday, January 28.
• Also on January 28 our School will be hosting the Region VIII drill competition.  The competition will begin at 6:00 PM, and doors will open at 5:00 PM.
• Concurrent enrollment application and registration deadlines for the spring semester are coming up. January 20 is the application deadline for UVU, and January 22 is the registration deadline for classes. Mrs. Sarah Call has emphasized that if students can get registered before the semester starts, it will make everything easier for everyone involved. For questions regarding the application and registration process, contact Sarah Call at sarah.call [at] nebo.edu; students should apply for concurrent enrollment courses at http://uvu.edu/concurrent.
• March 1, 2016 is the date that seniors need to have the state civics test completed by if they haven't already done so.  Seniors who haven't taken the test need to complete it on their Canvas account on a school computer. The school's computer labs will be made available for completing the test on March 1, 2016 for those who need to complete the test.
• Salem Hills High School and Nebo School District now have OverDrive! OverDrive is an online collection of eBooks and audiobooks that are available to students 24/7. OverDrive can be used online through the link nebo.lib.overdrive.com or through the free app on your tablet or smart phone. Your user name and password is the same as your Nebo School District computer login. For more information, please see Mrs. Rawle in the Library.
• Student Spirit Shirts are available in the bookstore. They come in Navy, White, and Columbia. They can be purchased individually for $8 dollars or as a pack of three for $20. Support our school, its teams, programs, clubs, and organizations by wearing your Skyhawk pride with one of these awesome shirts!
• SHHS attendance policy states that for students to be eligible to participate in a sport, musical performing group, or other extracurricular activity all attendance detentions from the previous term need to be served. For those who need to serve detention time, detention will be held before school in room C 209 with Mrs. Edmondson, and during lunch, and after school in room C 207 with Mrs. Hernandez. The cost is $1 before and after school; lunchtime detention has no charge.
• Remember to share all the awesome , inspiring, and heroic things that are going on at SHHS with #shhshero.
• Be sure to like us on facebook at https://www.facebook.com/salemhills.skyhawks?fref=ts

Next  Week at a Glance: (1/18/16 - 1/23/16)

Monday: No School (Martin Luther King Day)

Tuesday: Term 3 Begins

                   SHHS Boys and Girls Basketball @ Springville HS (Girls Varsity @ 5:15, and Boys                                                   Varsity @ 7:00 PM)

Wednesday: Honor Choir Area Rehearsals at 4:00 PM

                        SHHS Wrestling versus Spanish Fork HS @ 7:00 PM

Thursday: N/A

Friday: SHHS Wrestling at the Pine View Invitational

Saturday: SHHS Wrestling at the Pine View Invitational  

                   SHHS Swimming @ Uintah HS

                   SHHS Senior Dinner Dance @ 7:00 PM

"I hope that in this year to come, you make mistakes. Because if you are making mistakes, then you are making new things, trying new things, learning, living, pushing yourself, changing yourself, changing your world. You're doing things you've never done before, and more importantly, you're doing something."

-- Neil Gaiman 

I came across this quote from Neil Gaiman, the popular author, and I thought it was very apropos for where we are at as a school community at Salem Hills High School. One of the great challenges we face in education is getting caught up in the status quo and doing things the way they have always been done. We are afraid, at times, to veer from what we are comfortable with because we are afraid to make mistakes. We let the possibility of making mistakes almost cripple us at times. Education by its very nature, however, cannot follow the status quo. It must grow and adapt to address the needs of our growing and adapting world. So, as we embrace the growth and adaptations that come inevitably in education, I would admonish us to follow the charge given in the previous quote, that we be willing to push ourselves and make learning mistakes, and by so doing, we will grow and adapt and be better for it.   

Skyhawk Highlights:

SHHS Skyhawk FBLA: Congratulations to our FBLA team and their outstanding performance at their recent competition at UVU. The following students placed in the following categories:

Outstanding Chapter Award- 3rd place - Salem Hills High School

Introduction to Financial Math - 4th place - Spencer Crow

Job interview - 2nd place - James Ebert

Management Decision Making - 4th place - Dylan Baxter and Tyson Parsons

Computer Applications - 2nd place -Hayden Henrie

Social Media Campaign - 4th place -Kinzie Bigelow

Word Processing - 3rd place - Spencer Crow

Spreadsheet Application - 1st place - Jesse Clark

Sales Presentation - 1st place - Hannah Wheelwright 

Website Design - 2nd place - Timothy Lambert

Publication Design - 3rd place -Timothy Lambert

Public Speaking 1 - 2nd Place - Dylan Baxter

Sports and Entertainment Management - 1st place - Sierra Draper and Wyatt Biesenbach

Client Service - 4th place - Tyson Parsons

Public Speaking 2 - 4th place - Sierra Draper

Database Design and Application - 2nd place - Sierra Draper

Entrepreneurship - 3rd place - Sierra Draper and Wyatt Biesenbach

SHHS Wintertide Concert: On the evening of December 16 our choirs and orchestras put on their annual, amazing Wintertide show. Our students did a tremendous job with the performance! A special thanks to Mr. Justin Bills and Mr. Paul Wells. 

Skyhawk Happenings and Information:

• There will be a SHHS Time assembly (Spirit Bowl) on Friday, January 8 (12:45-1:15).
• There will be a post game stomp after the game this Friday, January 8. The cost is $3.
• Thursday, January 14 will be the last day of second term.
• Friday, January 15 is a Teacher Development Day; there will be no school for students.
• There will be no school on Monday, January 18 as it is Martin Luther King Day.
• Tuesday, January 16 is the beginning of third term.
• The Senior Dinner Dance/Masquerade  will be Saturday, January 23. The cost is $20 payable at the finance office. Please prepay by January 15.
• Salem Hills High School and Nebo School District now have OverDrive! OverDrive is an online collection of eBooks and audiobooks that are available to students 24/7. OverDrive can be used online through the link nebo.lib.overdrive.com or through the free app on your tablet or smart phone. Your user name and password is the same as your Nebo School District computer login. For more information, please see Mrs. Rawle in the Library.
• Concurrent enrollment application and registration deadlines for the spring semester are coming up. January 20 is the application deadline for UVU, and January 22 is the registration deadline for classes. Mrs. Sarah Call has emphasized that if students can get registered before the semester starts, it will make everything easier for everyone involved. For questions regarding the application and registration process, contact Sarah Call at sarah.call [at] nebo.edu; students should apply for concurrent enrollment courses at http://uvu.edu/concurrent.
• Student Spirit Shirts are available in the bookstore. They come in Navy, White, and Columbia. They can be purchased individually for $8 dollars or as a pack of three for $20. Support our school, its teams, programs, clubs, and organizations by wearing your Skyhawk pride with one of these awesome shirts!
• For those who need to serve detention time, detention will be held before school in room C 209 with Mrs. Edmondson, and during lunch, and after school in room C 207 with Mrs. Hernandez. The cost is $1 before and after school; lunchtime detention has no charge.
• Remember to share all the awesome , inspiring, and heroic things that are going on at SHHS with #shhshero.
• Be sure to like us on facebook at https://www.facebook.com/salemhills.skyhawks?fref=ts

This  Week at a Glance: (1/4/16 - 1/9/16)

Monday: Spirit Week

Tuesday: Spirit Week (Twin Day)

                  SHHS Girls Basketball at Uintah HS (3:30, 5:15, and 7:00 PM)

Wednesday: Spirit Week (Spirit Day) 

                         SHHS Wrestling at Wasatch HS (5:15 and 7:00 PM)

Thursday: Spirit Week (Throwback Thursday)

                    SHHS Dance Company Performance (6:00 PM)

                    SHHS Girls Basketball versus Spanish Fork HS (3:30, 5:15, and 7:00 PM)

 Friday: Spirit Week (Spirit Bowl Assembly)

               SHHS Swimming at Highland Invitational

               SHHS Wrestling at the Iron Town Duals Tournament

               SHHS Dance Company Performance (6:00 PM)

               SHHS Boys Basketball versus Spanish Fork HS (3:30, 5:15, and 7:00 PM)

Saturday: Spirit Week                  

                   SHHS Swimming at Highland Invitational

                   SHHS Wrestling at the Iron Town Duals Tournament

                   SHHS Drill Competition at Clearfield HS

                   SHHS Girls Basketball versus Payson HS (12:30, 2:15, and 4:00 PM)

• Bring your pennies to the front office!
• Seniors, Juniors and Sophomores are competing for a chance to watch a STAR WARS movie after school in the auditorium!  
• Each class has their own bucket in the main office: Seniors are Yoda, Juniors are Darth Vader and Sophomores are R2-D2.
• Pennies ADD points to each grade's score.  Everything else (nickles, dimes, quarters, cash money) take points AWAY.
• The winning lcass is decided by the amount of pennies in the bucket (after deductions are made).
• If we reach our school goal is $650, then everybody will get an extra10 minuets of lunch.  We did the math -- Everyone only needs to donate $1.80 to get there. Let's do this!
  
• Donations go to the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society.

Our goal is to create safe environments for teens to have a place where they are able to share their stress and personal struggles.

http://quittripn.org/

We are not counseling. We are a free community based resource providing support for teens and young adults struggling with various relationship stressors in their life. We believe that when a person struggles with relationships whether it be with: themselves, family, friends, school, etc, it can have negative effects on their self-esteem, self worth and self-image. This may lead to unusual behaviors, isolation from family and friends, lack of motivation and focus towards school, depression and anxiety. In extreme cases it can lead to addictions, extreme risk taking behavior, self harm, suicidal feelings/thoughts and sometimes actions. 

Henri Frederic Amiel, the Swiss philosopher stated, "Thankfulness is the beginning of gratitude. Gratitude is the completion of thankfulness. Thankfulness may consist merely of words. Gratitude is shown in acts."   

At Salem Hills High School we are certainly appreciative of the acts of gratitude that are "shown" to our school, and it is our sincere hope that we reciprocate that gratitude in our actions with this community as well. As we work together to help our students be successful, we hope you understand how thankful we are as an administration, faculty, and staff that we have the support of this school community that we do. Through your interactions with us, we hope our gratitude, for your support, is reflected in our correspondence and relationships with you. You are an awesome school community! Thank you!    

Skyhawk Highlights:

SHHS Sterling Scholar Winners: Congratulations to this year's talented winners of the Sterling Scholar: Bethany Davis (English), Paige Simmons (Math), Maleah Cook (Social Science), Noah Larsen (Science), Alyson Jardine (World Languages), Tyson Jones (Computer Technology), Sierra Draper (Business and Marketing), Kyla Rogers (Skilled and Technical Sciences), Amanda Wilcox (Family and Consumer Sciences), Caleb Sly (Speech/Theater Arts/Forensics), Sarah Deeb (Visual Art), Bryce Marsh (Vocal Performance), Kylee Vest (Instramental Music), and Sarah Tipton (Dance). We are proud that this excellent group of students are representing our school as this year's Sterling Scholars.  

SHHS Skyhawks Debate: Congratulations to the debate team for winning Sweepstakes at the T-Bird Tempest: International Extemporary: Elise Bauer (1st); Impromptu: Alea Simmons (4th), Caleb Sly (5th), and Mason Lindstrom (5th); Congress: Bethany Davis (3rd); Licoln Douglas: Brayden Cook (1st) and Mike Abbott (3rd); Public Forum: Elise Bauer and Brennan Cook (4th); SPAR: Seth Christensen (2nd), Frank Phillipsen (2nd), Sarah Tipton (4th), Caleb Sly (4th), Addison Hicks (5th), and Mason Lindstrom (5th); National Extemporary: Katie Vaughn (4th); Oratory: Sierra Draper (1st) and Jimmy Creighton (5th); Policy: Richard Wagner and Josh Bauer (1st) and Zac Robison and Caleb Sly (2nd); Parliamentary: Brayden Cook and Brennan Cook (1st) and Josh Bauer and Richard Wagner (2nd).

Our debate program also hosted their annual SHHS Smackdown debate tournament last weekend (11/13 and 14). It was the largest tournament yet with 29 schools participating from Park City HS to Grand HS and 856 entries! Our SHHS team took 1st overall with many students contributing to the win: Public Forum: Amy Robinson and Maleah Cook (3rd); Policy: Adam Johnson and Zac Robison (5th) and Josh Bauer  and Frank Phillipsen (6th); Character Spar: Seth Christensen (1st), and Jimmy Creighton (5th); Declamation: Wyatt Shively (1st), Austyn Thomas (3rd), and Brennan Cook (4th); Poetry: Meagan Welton (1st), Bethany Davis (3rd), and Wyatt Shively (5th); Congress: Bethany Davis (3rd) and Ben Brimhall (6th). Congratulations Mr. Welton and the debate team!

SHHS and PTSA Reflections Winners: Congratulations to this year's winners of the annual PTSA Reflections contest: Hannah Wheelwright, Amber Maddock, Brooke Terry, and Linda Taeger each won the Award of Excellence for Literature; Baylee Ewell, Devan Ashcraft, Amber Maddock, and Miranda Tarter each won the Award of Excellence for Photography; and Dana Wilson, Johnathon Tullis, Kate Maddock, and Amber Maddock each won the Award of Excellence for Visual Arts. Addison Albrecht received Honorable Mention for Visual Arts as well. Brooke Terry also received Honorable Mention at the council level. Way to go Reflections winners!    

SHHS Haiku Mania Winners: Mrs. Lesue-Smithey's classes recently contributed to and competed in her annual Haiku Mania writing contest. The theme was "Glimpses of Nature" and winners included Mathew Desantiago (B1, 1st) and Kortney Ross, (B1, 2nd); Beau Thurgood (B2, 1st) and  Heidi Sorensen (B2, 2nd) tied with Selena Marquardson (B2, 2nd); Josh Bauer (B5, 1st) and Morgan Radke (B5, 2nd). Congratulations also go out to Sierra Ivie, Sam Chandia, Mallory Hanks, Kaden Kunz, Gemma Busto, Bryson Swalberg, and Anne Lauritzen.

Skyhawk Happenings and Information:

• Next Week, November 30-December 4, we will be having a Wellness Week here at SHHS; Monday will be a day of service, and service opportunities can be selected from the Service Tree; Tuesday is "Be a Friend" day, and we will have an assembly, "Find Your Kryptonite", to emphasize the importance of being a friend; Wednesday is a "Social Connections" day, and there will be a parent night here at SHHS at 7:00 PM to promote social awareness;   Thursday will be a "Manage Stress" day, and there will be yoga in the commons at lunch; and Friday will be a day to focus on getting healthy amounts of sleep, and students are encouraged to wear school-appropriate pajamas to school as part of this focus. 
• The Counselors will continue to meet with 10th-grade students and their parents through December 11.  This is a great opportunity for 10th graders and their parents to review their plans for graduation and to start to explore options available in getting ready for college and careers.  Students and parents can set up an appointment on the Counseling Office website.  The password is shhs at the following website: http://shhscounseling.weebly.com/
• Our PTSA will be doing a fundraiser at Cafe Zupas in Spanish Fork on December 1. If you eat there between 5:00 and 9:00 PM then our school gets the proceeds of 25% of your order! Come and support this fundraising opportunity for our school!
• The SHHS Dance Company will be presenting their first performance of the year on December 3 and 4 at 7:00 PM in the auditorium. The show is titled "Happiness is...", and the company has been working really hard to prepare for and present this show. The cost is $6 general admission, $4 for students, and $20 for a family pass.  Come and support our awesome dance company!
• On December 5  at 5:30 PM our Concert Choir, Serendipity, and Singers will be performing their "Arise, Shine" show at the Assembly Hall on Temple Square in Salt Lake City. 
• The "Wintertide: A Holiday Musical Celebration" will be on December 16 at 7:00 PM in the auditorium and will feature SHHS Choirs and Orchestras. The cost is $8 for individuals, $5 for students, children, military, and senior citizens, and $30 for a family pass. The price of admission includes a reception to follow the show.
• Concurrent enrollment application and registration deadlines for the spring semester are coming up. January 20 is the application deadline for UVU, and January 22 is the registration deadline for classes. Mrs. Sarah Call has emphasized that if students can get registered before the semester starts, it will make everything easier for everyone involved. For questions regarding the application and registration process, contact Sarah Call at sarah.call [at] nebo.edu; students should apply for concurrent enrollment courses at http://uvu.edu/concurrent.
• Student Spirit Shirts are available in the bookstore. They come in Navy, White, and Columbia. They can be purchased individually for $8 dollars or as a pack of three for $20. Support our school, its teams, programs, clubs, and organizations by wearing your Skyhawk pride with one of these awesome shirts!
• For those who need to serve detention time, detention will be held before school in room C 209 with Mrs. Edmondson, and during lunch, and after school in room C 207 with Mr. Shumway. The cost is $1 before and after school; lunchtime detention has no charge.
• Remember to share all the awesome , inspiring, and heroic things that are going on at SHHS with #shhshero.
• Be sure to like us on facebook at https://www.facebook.com/salemhills.skyhawks?fref=ts

Next  Week at a Glance: (11/30/15 - 12/5/15)

Monday: Wellness Week: "Day of Service"

                  Football Banquet in the Cafeteria @ 6:00 PM

Tuesday: Wellness Week: "Be a Friend"

                  Wrestling here versus Delta @ 7:00 PM

                  Girls Basketball @ Carbon (Sophomores @ 3:30; JV @ 5:15; Varsity @ 7:00 PM)   

Wednesday: Wellness Week: "Social Connections"

                        Volleyball Banquet in the Cafeteria @ 3:30 PM

Thursday: Wellness Week: "Manage Stress"

                    Dance Company Showcase in the Auditorium (6:00 PM)

                    Footlocker Invitational in California

                    Girls Basketball at the Desert Hills Tournament

 Friday: Wellness Week: "Get Enough Sleep"

               Dance Company Showcase in the Auditorium (6:00 PM)

               Footlocker Invitational in California

               Girls Basketball at the Desert Hills Tournament

               Skyhawk Showdown Wrestling Tournament (3:00 - 10:00 PM)

               Swimming at Canyon View Invitational

Saturday: Footlocker Invitational in California

                  Girls Basketball at the Desert Hills Tournament

                  Skyhawk Showdown Wrestling Tournament (8:00 AM - 3:00 PM)

                  Swimming at Canyon View Invitational

                  "Arise, Shine" Choir Performance at Assembly Hall, Temple Square (5:30 PM)

“I never meet a ragged boy in the street without feeling that I may owe him a salute, for I know not what possibilities may be buttoned up under his coat.” -- James A. Garfield

This is such a great quote because as educators we live this every day as we interact with our students! As I have come into contact, from time to time, with former students that I have taught, I am often amazed at what they have gone on to do, to discover what they had, "buttoned up under [their] coat[s]." To be a bit cliché, the "possibilities" are endless for these kids, and it is truly our pleasure to help them recognize and realize their individual "possibilities"; It's why I love being an educator.  

Skyhawk Highlights:

SHHS Academic All-State Selections:  Congratulations to the following SHHS Academic All-state athletes; we are proud of the way they represent our school academically and athletically: Mason Brent Baxter (Boys Cross Country), Landon Garrett Loss (Boys Cross Country), Samuel Strong Callister (Football), Ryan Clayton Stones (Football), Paige Lynn Simmons (Girls Soccer), Sophia Marie Hartline (Girls Soccer), Adrene Emily Harding (Girls Soccer), Mariah Julie Sainsbury (Girls Soccer), Sophie Lucille Carter (Girls Soccer), Alexi Lauren Olsen (Girls Tennis), and Corie Kristine Bornholdt (Volleyball). This group was honored at the district on November 11 at this month's board meeting.

SHHS Cross Country: Both the boys and girls cross country teams finished, uniquely, 3rd in region and 10th in state. Haley Johnston earned 1st Team All-State honors by finishing 5th at state and 1st in region. The teams competed​ hard and represented the school well. Our girls were just 4 points out of 1st at region, and our boys were 4 points out of 2nd at region. Congratulations to Coach Thompson and the cross country team on another great year! Thank you seniors: Girls: Katie Grass, Kailey Ritchie, and Liza Stephens; Boys: Ashton Gammon, Devin Black, Nathan Chesnut, Nathan DeBrine, Thomas Holmgren, Max Johnson, Landon Loss, Dutch Palfreyman, Frank Phillipsen, Ethan Simmons, Caleb Sly, Wesley Stone, and Chayden Zeeman.

SHHS Skyhawks of the Month: This month our social studies department selected our standout students of the month. This month's Skyhawks of the Month are Parker Gates, nominated by Miss Wright, Ben Preece, nominated by Mr. Morrell, Paige Simmons, nominated by Mr. Griffin, Alaina Black, nominated by Mr. Thompson, Sheppard Sonntag, nominated by Mr. Van Leuven, and Abigail Hawkins, nominated by Mr. Lloyd. Congratulations to these students for being such awesome examples of spirit, heart, honor, and success at SHHS!

SHHS Band: Our band recently placed 4th at the state competition in St. George. Mr. Larsen was proud of the team and the way they performed in the competition. This is the 5th year in a row that they have finished in the top 5. Congratulations to the band and Mr. Larsen for their excellent performance and accomplishment. Thank you seniors: Samantha Anderson, Carson Bowers, Marianne Bushman, Tyler Christensen, Andrew Condie, Kelsey Curtis, Jacob Frazier, Kevin Holdaway, Sam Lofthouse, Brendan McConnell, Gabriel Moreno, Wyatt Mullen, Elizabeth Rash, Erika Swenson, Kylee Vest, and Jacqueline Yates.

SHHS Girls Volleyball: The ladies finished their season with tournament play at the state championships held at UVU last weekend. The ladies took 7th in state and had to play through injury and adversity to claim the spot. Though they would have preferred to finish higher, the team rallied and played with heart after their senior captain, Corie Bornholdt, suffered a knee injury in their game against Timpview. Congratualtions to Coach Treanor, her staff, and our volleyball team on their 2nd place finish in region and their 7th place finish at state!  Thank you seniors: Callie Peterson, Corie Bornholdt, and Sadie Lundquist.  

SHHS Knowledge Bowl: SHHS recently held its eighth annual Knowledge Bowl. This fun activity allows students to show what they know in a competitive way.  There were 32 teams that competed in a single elimination tournament. This year it only took 45 minutes for the 32 team bracket to fill up. Teams of four competed against one another on the school's live stream to determine the ultimate Knowledge Bowl Champions, and this year the winners were Samuel Lofthouse, Alyson Jardine, Caleb Sly, Mike Abbott, and Jenna Rhodes. Congratulations to these knowledgeable virtuosos and a special thanks to Mr. Macdonald for doing such a great job organizing this popular event!

SHHS Boys Football: The football team made it to state and faced Highland HS in the first round of the playoffs. They battled hard, but Highland's depth proved to be a bit too much to overcome. A 3rd place finish in region and a playoff appearance is something this team can be proud of. Congratulations to Coach Higginson, his staff,  and our football team. Thank you seniors: Cooper Smith, Tristan Swenson, Zach Simmons, Keyne Christensen, Tanner Argyle, Sam Callister, Louis Boakye, Kanyon Merrill, Bradin Hanson, Colton Hunsaker, Steele Rapier, Ryan Stones, Jens Higginson, Jarom Johnson, Brigham Hughes, Mitch Stephens, and Davey Crippen.

SHHS Make a Wish Week: Each year SHHS tries to help make a member of our community's wish come true; this year we are putting forth our efforts to help Andrea Robinson, a sweet, 13-year-old girl who is battling through the effects of kidney failure. Andrea's wish is to see castles due to her interest in design and architecture, plus she wants to feel like a princess. Our student council has organized efforts to raise money to help this wish of Andrea come true. To help raise money, BYU's Young Ambassadors performed on Saturday, November 7, we had a movie night on November 10, and November 12's annual Manhawk Pageant's proceeds went towards raising money for this cause. On Monday of next week (11/16), proceeds from the evening's Great Skyhawk Gorge will go to the cause as well. We are selling dog tags and T-shirts as well to raise funds for this cause; funds raised beyond what are necessary for Andrea's wish will also go towards families in our community who are in need during this holiday season. Thank you for supporting our community and SHHS in this effort. Your generosity is awesome!

Skyhawk Happenings and Information:

• The Great Skyhawk Gorge will be on Monday, November 16 from 5:00-7:00 PM. Come learn about the cool things going on in the clubs, organizations, programs, and teams at SHHS. The cost is $5 an individual and $20 per immediate family. Each group will have plenty of good treats and food for visitors, and proceeds go towards Make a Wish Week for Andrea Robinson and our community.
• Nebo School District will present a Parent Awareness Night on Monday, November 16 at 6:30 PM at Spanish Fork HS (99 North 300 West, Spanish Fork, UT). Topics of discussion will be substance abuse and mental health services addressing depression, suicide awareness, and suicide prevention.    
• The Counselors will continue to meet with 10th-grade students and their parents through December 11.  This is a great opportunity for 10th graders and their parents to review their plans for graduation and to start to explore options available in getting ready for college and careers.  Students and parents can set up an appointment on the Counseling Office website.  The password is shhs at the following website: http://shhscounseling.weebly.com/
• Utah College Application Week will be next week (November 16 -20). Mrs. Kinikini will be supervising the week's activities, and we are excited about the engaging activities her committee has put together for our students. Our goal and purpose for the week's activities is to help every senior apply to college or a post high school graduate program. The week's activities include a college/career themed door decorating contest to be completed by November 16, College Hoops at lunch on November 17, The judging of doors on November 18, and assisted college application completion in senior English classes on November 19 and 20. Students will need a method of payment for the applications (preferably a credit card); Snow, SUU, Westminster, and Dixie State will have fee waivers for students.
• Student Spirit Shirts are available in the bookstore. They come in Navy, White, and Columbia. They can be purchased individually for $8 dollars or as a pack of three for $20. Support our school, its teams, programs, clubs, and organizations by wearing your Skyhawk pride with one of these awesome shirts!
• For those who need to serve detention time, detention will be held before school in room C 209 with Mrs. Edmondson, and during lunch, and after school in room C 207 with Mr. Shumway. The cost is $1 before and after school; lunchtime detention has no charge.
• Remember to share all the awesome , inspiring, and heroic things that are going on at SHHS with #shhshero.
• Be sure to like us on facebook at https://www.facebook.com/salemhills.skyhawks?fref=ts

Next  Week at a Glance: (11/16/15 - 11/20/15)

Monday: The Great Skyhawk Gorge in the Main and Auxiliary Gyms (5:00-7:00 PM)

                  Parent Awareness Night @ Spanish Fork HS (6:30 PM)

Tuesday: Cross Country Banquet at 3:00 PM

                  Vocal Arts Sterling Scholar Auditions   

Wednesday: Jazz Band Concert in the Auditorium (7:00 PM)

Thursday:  Josten's Here at Lunch

                    Skyhawk Smackdown Debate Competition (3:00 PM)

Friday: Skyhawk Smackdown Debate Competition (3:00 PM)

             Boys Basketball Blue and White Game (6:00 PM)

             Swimming at Thanksgiving Invitational         

Saturday:  Skyhawk Smackdown Debate Competition (Begins at 7:00 AM)

                   Swimming at Thanksgiving Invitational         

                   Sadie Hawkins Dance (7:00 PM)

SALEM, UT – Salem Hills High School will be honoring a special WWII at their annual Veteran’s Day Assembly, this coming Thursday, Nov. 12th in the SHHS Auditorium at 10:00 am.  Rex K. Thompson has a personal history that will help the students to connect with the heritage and purpose of Veteran’s Day.

Rex K. Thompson came from pioneer stock who left England and Scotland and settled in Clarkston, in Northern Utah. He was born on December 30, 1919, the first child of Kenneth G. and Peru Jardine Thompson. He attended Cache County Schools and Utah State University before leaving on a mission for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints.

Rex served his mission in the Northwestern States. While in the mission field, Pearl Harbor was bombed and the war began. The US government allowed missionaries already serving to finish their missions, with the understanding they would report for military service once they returned home. Rex returned in September of 1943. He married his lifetime sweetheart Edna Griffin in October of that year, and reported for his induction physical at Fort Douglas in Salt Lake City in January 1944.

In February he left his home with other recruits for the Navy enlistment office. While waiting in a big room, a Marine Sergeant entered and called for Rex, his cousin Edwin and a young early high school graduate to follow him. The Sergeant informed them because of their excellent physical condition they would have the great opportunity to join the Marine Corps. The next day the papers were signed, and the next day after that they were on a train to San Diego for basic training.

Surviving basic training and a mad dog drill instructor was a relief. After completing basic, Rex learned he had been assigned to military communications. He was transferred to Camp Pendleton near Oceanside CA for schooling in communications. After passing the communication testing, Rex was assigned to the 5th JASCO (Joint Assault Signal Company). Their duty was to be liaisons between landing troops and ships at sea. Beach landings and practice invasions were simulated. Hauling gear out of the Higgins boats and setting up working message centers on land was their goal.

In late July they boarded ships and left San Diego for Hilo Hawaii, and eventually Camp Tarawa near Kamuela on the huge Parker Ranch on the big island of Hawaii. This became their second home. More training, and a baseball game occurred while the Marines waited for combat. Rex became the camp barber. His team officer asked the group if anyone had ever cut hair before. No one had. Had anyone ever sheared sheep--still no one. Rex said he had roached horses, so he was given the barber kit and started cutting hair. By then he had a baby daughter at home, and his buddies insisted that guys had better tip Rex for their haircuts so a college fund could be set up for baby sis, who they called "Snooks." One friend actually said if any "cheep low-down bastard" didn't donate he would get his ear cut the next time instead of his hair.

On January 4, 1945 the Marines boarded troop ship APA 96 Cecil, and spent the next few weeks sailing between islands. They were in and out of Honolulu, sailed around Diamond Head and practiced landings on Maui. They left the home islands on January 27th heading for Siapan and then Iwo Jima. The landing on Iwo Jima began at 3:30 a.m. on February 19, 1945. What was supposed to be a battle of a few days duration became a six week ordeal. The Japanese were dug in; many, many Marines were in a terrible struggle digging them out. Hand to hand combat was common. On February 23, 1945 Rex was processing a message when he heard shouting and cheering. His friend Vard Hadley informed him that the flag had just gone up on Mt. Suribachi. The battle went on for weeks more, but Iwo was finally secured and the JASCO team was evacuated off Iwo on March 21, 1945. Back to Hawaii, and then to Japan as part of the occupying forces. Rex landed at the famous Sasebo Harbor in September of 1945. Not a soul was in sight. All the people had evacuated to the hills fearing the invading troops. Eventually the local people emerged and began trading with the Marines. The kids learned to play baseball. The war was over. Rex returned home in March of 1946. His points for being married and having a child sent him home ahead of his band of brothers. Through the years he maintained contact with his Marine Corps friends. Many are now gone, but those feelings of friendship never die.

Rex became a barber after the war. His Marine Corps experiences, cutting the hair of his buddies, helped him choose this career. Later he worked as a Letter Carrier for the US Post Office. He and Edna raised five children in Logan, Utah about 20 miles from their hometown of Clarkston. They have been involved throughout their lives severing in the community (delivering Meals on Wheels into their 90's) and serving in their church. They still live in Logan, and are loved and celebrated by their five children, 25 grandchildren and 67 great grandchildren.

Salem Hills is honored to host Rex as a guest speaker.

Yesterday, two of our awesome faculty memebers were given awards at the faculty meeting held after school.

A faculty member in the Special Ed Department, Joe Hernandez, won a Crystal Apple Award. During his acceptance speech he recognized other team memebers of the Special Ed department, whithout whom no one would be able to do their jobs.

Doug Welton, who teaches Debate and Japanese, was awarded a BIG CHECK from Nebo Education Foundation for a grant he wrote for a new laptop computer to assist his students.  He had a "three-way" grant with matching funds coming from several sources.  

Congratulations again to these #shhsheros!