E J Cooper High School - Talons Yearbook (New Hope, MN)

Page 15 text:

Time can only tell how long a school will remain in its true tradition. Changes in the curriculum brought approval from most students, but a few were against more modern thinking. The student smoking lounge was the most controversial change. The lounge allowed students to smoke during the five minutes passing time between classes. Opposition was voiced against the lounge by students and faculty members who complained of smoke in the halls. Phy. Ed. classes discovered much change. By law, all classes that were offered were to be co-educational. This law brought new classes such as Outdoor Education, Contact Team Sports, and Individual Sports to Cooper. Under the same law, all Home Economics and Industrial Arts classes are also co-educational. This meant that the all-male ‘‘Chef class was disbanded and co-educational classes offered. Another new class. Recreational Sewing, was added, bringing enthusiasm from many students. Distributive Education opened a store in the commons again this year, offering ‘‘munchies for the students to eat. n

Page 17 text:

The United States of America has survived for 200 years. We've come a long way, but there are still many problems to be solved. Inflation and unemployment still plague the economy. The energy crisis still hovers near. The lack of oil has necessitated the construction of the Alaskan pipeline. In November, 1976, the nation will elect the 39th President of the United States. Two hundred years ago, the first President, George Washington, had many problems as he began a nation. President number 39 will have obstacles to overcome in order to continue the life of America. Gerald Ford is a strong candidate in 1976, but Nelson Rockefeller will not be running as his Vice-President. George Wallace and Ronald Reagan also are intending to be candidates. A most important issue facing the nation is that of euthanasia. It may be decided through the case of Karen Quinlan. Ms Quinlan had been in a coma for six months when her parents asked the court for permission to let her die by turning off the respirator which was keeping her alive. The outcome of this case decided whether we have the right to let someone die when recovery seems impossible. 1776 was the year for a revolution, 1976 is the year for revolutionary ideas.