The Times - Serving Waitsburg, Dayton and the Touchet Valley

While

I'm not one to pay homage to the oft-revered

"high school experience", I have to admit that I do have some fond memories of what, I hope, were not my "Glory Days." That particular Springsteen tune, by the way, was recorded in the midst of my high school career. By then I'd already fallen in love with The Boss and played his "The River" album repeatedly enough to drive my parents nuts - especially since they failed to share my appreciation, insisting that Bruce sounds like he has a mouth full of mush. Whatever.

I attended High School in a town similar in size to Waits­burg, but significantly more secluded. This was back in the days when freshman initiation was an accepted rite of pas­sage and I recall being to required to dress as Sony Bono. Donald Smith (surname changed to protect the guilty) was Cher. We were "purchased" - think fundraiser -- by upper­classmen who had us carry their books to class and perform silly stunts like regaling the bank tellers with our Fight Song during lunch break. 'Cher' and I were slated to sing "I've Got You Babe" at the afternoon assembly but guess who mysteriously went home ill and left me to perform solo? Thanks, Donald.

Even on the receiving end, it was all good fun. I can't see that type of thing going over in this day and age, but one tradition from "the good ole' days" is alive and well - homecoming! Waitsburg High's homecoming celebra­tion week is just around the corner and many of the games, activities and events are open to the public. Attending is a great way to support the kids and the school while having a good time, yourself. The public is invited to attend the fol­lowing events:

Homecoming week kicks off on Monday, Oct. 21 at 3 p.m. with a JV football game against Mabton. The game is followed by Field Night at 7 p.m. where classes compete in wacky competitions, play a rousing game of Powder-puff Football and go head-to-head in at least one mud-based event.

Wednesday brings a special treat, though it's not techni­cally a homecoming event. A Mass Band and Choir Concert will take place at the WHS gym at 6:30 p.m. About a dozen small schools from Touchet to Asotin combine bands and choruses, spend the day rehearsing together, and perform in an evening concert. These performances are often quite impressive.

With no home volleyball game slated, an alumni match has been arranged, instead. Senior night for the volleyball and cross country players will take place at 5:50 on Oct. 24, with the game scheduled to start at 6 p.m. Rumor has it that elementary and high school teachers, WHS grads and even a past coach or two will be facing the Lady Cards in what is sure to be an entertaining match.

Senior football players and cheerleaders will be honored at 6:50 on Friday night, Oct. 25, prior to the Waitsburg vs. Asotin football game. The Homecoming Court will be an­nounced at half-time. Be there to cheer the team to victory!

The public is also welcome to attend the crowning of the 2013 WHS Homecoming King & Queen during at 10:30 in Preston Hall.

We live in a wonderful community with a great bunch of teens. Why not take advantage of homecoming week to show your support of the kids and the school and maybe even relive a bit of your own "Glory Days"?