Wisconsin—One of the best times for a senior at Wisconsin Academy (besides graduation) is Senior Recognition Weekend. Nov. 4 and 5 marked this year's special weekend that included the dedication of the senior mission trip. The weekend is designed for friends and families of the seniors to have time together, and to raise money for the mission trip.

Fri. vespers was given by G. Paul Foster, Sharon Adventist Church youth pastor. He encouraged the seniors that even when they do fail, failure is not final.

Sabbath school began with a skit about Jesus' wilderness temptations. Following the skit, D.J. McKenzie, WA chaplain, shared thoughts about everyday temptations.

Seniors marched in and took their places on the stage for church service. Vonda Seals, former WA English teacher, delivered a message to the seniors from Joshua 1:8–9. We learned that by following principles in those verses we will have success; failure will not be an option. Fri. evening and Sabbath messages focused on the seniors' motto: “Failure Is Not an Option.”

Sat. evening the seniors held a traditional auction and talent show. "My favorite act of [the] talent show was Jordan Wisniewski's and Aaron Cook's song, 'Swing Life Away.' I didn't know they could sing that well!" commented Sara Edminster. "The talent show really brought out different sides of the seniors that I've never seen before; I am quite impressed!" exclaimed Marlyn Santiago.

At the close of the night, as friends and family departed, the seniors breathed a sigh of relief. After all the hard work and planning, the weekend really paid off. This was a weekend the class of 2006 will never forget.

Michelle Paulsen (senior), Wisconsin Academy correspondent