2009_Vernois News - Mount Vernon Township High School

VERNOIS NEWS
Volume 87 - Issue 8
Top News
Spring Break: April 5-13, 2009
March 2009
Leisurely reading
Prom Preparation
Students prepare and
plan for an exciting
Prom “Crystal Ball” 2009
at Holiday Inn
News—Page 3
St. Patrick‟s Day
VN provides a wrap-up of
the green holiday and
sheds light on student‟s
traditions
News—Page 4
Creel steps up
Doug Creel, former head
basketball coach, steps
up to the assistant baseball coach position
Sports—Page 24
VERNOIS NEWS photo/Kat Bullock
Freshmen Tyler Joseph, Frank Hughey, and Gwendolyn Jackson leaf through a magazine together during a visit to the library. Next
year, freshmen will take all of their core classes in G building and will only leave to attend their electives and lunch.
Board ok’s Freshman Academy for 09-10
By Alicia Sheldon
CO-EDITOR IN CHIEF
Other News
Fiddler on the Roof
MV students, staff enjoy
another great Operetta
hosted in MV‟s Schweinfurth auditorium
Rigor, relevance, and relationships, or the “3
R‟s,” is the basis for the new Freshman Academy
that will be implemented for the 2009-2010
school year.
The Freshman Academy was designed by MV
to ease the transition between middle and high
school, and to prepare freshmen for their next
three years in school.
The academy is located in G building, with
teams of teachers who will teach a particular
group of students. The freshmen will leave G
building for electives, and will also have a separate lunch hour.
The “3 R‟s” focus on academic excellence, or
rigor, connections between school courses and
future careers, or relevance, and also relationships between students, peers, teachers, and
parents.
A few of the objectives of the Freshman
Academy include increasing attendance rates,
developing career plans, exceeding state standards in core subjects, and increasing the
graduation rate.
Buzz—Page 12-13
Odds & Ends
A tricky maze, a sneaky Sudoku
… can you handle all the fun?
See Inside For:
Mr. Brown says “Goodbye”— Page 9
New Xbox games — Page 20
Cards vs. Cubs — Page 21
Feature, Pages 6-9
A&E, Pages 19-20
Sports, Pages 21-24
To inform, educate, enlighten, and entertain | A VERNOIS PUBLICATIONS GROUP PRODUCTION
Page 2, News Briefs
VERNOIS NEWS
this just IN
VERNOIS NEWS is a free monthly
publication produced by students and staff of
Mount Vernon Township High School.
HOW TO REACH THE VERNOIS
LICATIONS OFFICE
PUB-
Staples spotlights Boldt
By Courtney Staples
School in Olney, Illinois, where she was very
active.
Mrs. Boldt played softball, basketball, and
volleyball in high school. She was on the student council for three years and was the StuCo
President her senior year. She was also a
member of FCA, the Pep Club, Speech and
Acting, Co-op, the Science Club, where she
was president her senior year as well, and was
also given the title as Class President her
sophomore, junior, and senior years.
Like many MV students, she likes to listen
to music.
“I listen to anything from WIBI to pop,
because my children love Hannah Montana,”
stated Boldt.
Even from there, her music selection expands.
“If I had to choose a favorite, it would be
Indie music. I like Nora Jones and Jack Johnson,” admitted Boldt.
Not having much time to herself, Boldt
still manages to keep her family a priority.
“I chase my kids around [and] we attend a
lot of basketball and baseball games,” she
explained.
Mr. Terry Milt, Superintendent
Mr. Ron Daniels, Principal
Mrs. Tammy Beckham, Assistant Principal
Mrs. Susan Talley, Assistant Principal
Mr. Rob Knutson, Assistant Principal
Mrs. Melanie Gulley,
Student Services Director
Mr. Doug Creel, Athletic Director
Mrs. Shirilyn Holt, Board Secretary
Mrs. Jane Brown, Treasurer
It is unusual for a student on the MV campus to
have never heard the name “Boldt.” From
fellow teachers to substitutes, the Boldt family dominates the MV campus. There‟s Mr. Nathan Boldt and Mr. Lance Boldt, who are
brothers and teachers at MV. Ms. Rachel Boldt,
their younger sister, and Mr. Les Boldt, their
father, are substitutes on the MV campus.
Last, but not least, is Mrs. Brittney Boldt, the
Child and Daycare instructor at MV, and the
wife of Lance Boldt.
Mrs. Boldt is a lot like the students at MV.
However, she has a lot more responsibilities.
With two daughters at hone, Sidnee, age 4,
and Kenidee, age 2, plus her students at
school, Mrs. Boldt has a lot on her plate.
She is one of the Junior/Senior class sponsors and is head of the prom committee and
she still managed to receive the Teacher of
the Year Award in 2007.
She attends Little Grove Christian Church,
located in Walnut-Hill. Her husband, Lance, is
the preacher there, going on nine years.
Mrs. Boldt attended East Richland High
VERNOIS NEWS Management
Wells shows love of Y&G
S.R.O. speaks of objectives
By Ethan O‟Neal
By Alyssa Moffit & Darrel Mitchell
The 2008-2009 Youth and Government campaign has had a successful year. But what exactly is Youth and Government?
“Youth and Government is a YMCA program
that allows students to act as mock legislators
and lobbyists,” stated Mr. Andy Wells, Head
Advisor to MV Youth and Government.
Student‟s agendas are based on mock legislation in the form of bills.
“They [the student delegates] actually try
to get a bill passed,” said Mr. Wells. “The bill
has three stages of passes. The final is in the
General Assembly, we actually take over the
Capitol building,” added Mr. Wells.
The MV students participating in Youth and
Government travel across the state during the
year.
“Our first trip was on the first Friday of
November at Sesser-Valier High School. It is
called Pre-Leg 1. Our next stop was Pre-Leg 2
on the first Saturday in December in Williamsville, which is north of Springfield. Then our
last stop was in March at the General Assembly
… that lasted three days,” explained Mr. Wells.
The General Assembly is run by students
who run for office starting in Pre-Leg 1.
Student Resource Officer (S.R.O.) Jim Hawkins can rarely be seen in his office.
All hours of the school day, he can be
seen patrolling around, having casual conversations with any student that passes by him.
“I‟m here to break down the barriers between the law and high school students,”
explained Sergeant Hawkins.
Some things that happen here are better
being handled by law enforcement.
This year there have been a few students
who have been arrested and escorted off
campus.
However, there have been no major issues.
The new addition of PBIS has encouraged
more students to exhibit model behavior.
“I am always for encouraging positive
behavior,” added Hawkins on MV‟s reward
system.
“On the streets you never get to see good
people if you‟re an officer, but at school you
get to see good things and good students,”
Hawkins added.
Nationwide there are 9,000 members that
belong to the group National Association
School Resource Officers (NASRO).
Their goal is to educate, counsel, and
protect our school communities.
“Safer schools, safer kids” is the NASRO
slogan.
The whole idea behind this program is to
help keep the campus safer, ranging from
teachers to students.
VERNOIS
NEWS is located in Room
122H/123H on the campus of Mount Vernon
Township High School, 320 South 7th Street,
Mount Vernon, Illinois, 62864.
Inquiries regarding advertising and other questions
may be directed to VERNOIS NEWS by calling
618.246.5826 or 618.246.5827. Calls will be taken
8:00 am to 4:30 pm, Monday through Friday during the school year.
Newsroom: 618.246.5826
Mr. VanZandt’s Classroom: 618.246.5827
MVTHS Administration
Leah Minor, Co-Editor in Chief
Alicia Sheldon, Co-Editor in Chief
Dakota Bodine, News Editor
Connor Wilson, Feature Editor
Gabe Cralley, Opinions Editor
Joe Capps, Sports Editor
Kat Bullock, Photojournalist
Caleb Cross, Arts and Entertainment Editor
Katie Bunting, Blue Print Editor
Hannah Piercy, Staff
Davianne Kirk, Staff
Mrs. Karen Hamilton, Print Shop Director
Mr. Jamey VanZandt, Adviser
VERNOIS NEWS Staff
Writing for Publication 1. Period 2
Kent Almaroad, Kaitlynn Alvis, David Braden, Katie
Bunting, Tammy Daniels, Kristinia Gallops, Phillip Hamerski, Jared Hammond, Joel Harrison, Cody Hester, Brian
Metcalf, Ethan O’Neal, Laina Parsell, Mike Phillips,
Beloved Porter, Dyllan Rector, Josh Reeves, Emilly
Smitley, Courtney Staples, Amie Talley, Robbie Wilkie,
Darlene Wyatt, Alecia Zinke
Writing for Publication 1. Period 3
Jacob Alvis, Kylie Arndt, Anna Dismang, Taylor Evans,
Danielle Forrest, Kit Grote, Charles Hall, Holly Hayes,
Chelsey Hicks, Ashley Hodge, Trevor Houser, Davianne
Kirk, Kyle Lamichhane, Kayleigh McCowen, Aimee
McGovern, Alison Milt, Darrell Mitchell, Alyssa Moffitt,
Marquette Moore, Alexis Nulsen, Priya Patel, Mark Petties, Megan Scott, Jacob Sterner, Jordan Thompson,
Derrik West, Nick Wickman, Torey Williams, Connor
Wilson
Congratulations
Jessa Hawkins, ‘09, for being voted
Speaker of the House in Springfield at the 2009 Youth and Government session.
VERNOIS NEWS
News
News, Page 3
MV prepares for „Crystal Ball‟ Prom
“Our budget is $10,000.
And that has to be used to
book the room, provide
May 2 is the big day: Prom
food, and pay for decora2009. Seniors and juniors
tions,” explained Tieffel.
are finding dates, buying
“Decorations are our biggest
dresses, and making resexpense,” she continued.
ervations. The preparaAccording to mvths.org,
tion can be stressful, but
activities for the evening
not just for the atteninclude dinner at 6:30,
dees.
Grand March at 9:00, coroThe staff and prom
nation at 10:00, and the
committee also put a lot
dance ends at 11:30.
of effort into making it a
Finger foods, catered by
memorable night. This
the Holiday Inn, will be
prom is expected to be
served to dance attendees.
very special.
Veggie and fruit trays, egg
“Prom theme this
rolls, sub sandwiches, raviyear is going to be
oli, crab rangoon, and
„Crystal Ball,‟” comcheese will be available.
mented Mrs. Tieffel, co“The price of food will
sponsor of the prom combe included in your ticket,”
mittee.
Tieffel explained.
“The colors are hot
Special benefits come
pink, orange, turquoise,
from buying tickets early.
and gold,” listed MVTHS
“The first 100 students
prom link at mvths.org.
that purchase tickets will
“I‟m looking forward
receive a gift,” said Tieffel.
VERNOIS NEWS photo/Kat Bullock
to being a princess at the
Ticket-buyers will reShaye Riley, „10, picks out a prom dress to try on at Expressions on the square in Mt. Vernon. Juniors and
Ball,” thought Kayleigh seniors alike are making preparations for prom, some of which include choosing what to wear and finding a ceive a t-shirt, blue for boys
McCowen, „09.
date.
and pink for girls.
After much confusion
Every student will be
and change, the prom location has been permanently set at the
required to fill out a prom form before purchasing tickets. If one‟s
Holiday Inn.
date is not a MV student, they are required to fill out another form.
“The Holiday Inn was booked, but the party that was occupying
Prom forms must be filled out and present at the time tickets
it was dropped due to economic reasons,” said Mrs. Tieffel.
are sold.
By Anna Dismang
VERNOIS NEWS
Illinois honors Casimir Pulaski Day
By Alyssa Moffitt
VERNOIS NEWS
On March 2, MV students were given the day
off to honor Casimir Pulaski, but exactly
why does Illinois devote a state holiday in
his honor?
“I personally don‟t know anyone who
celebrates it, but I‟m sure a lot of Polish
people eat a special meal,” joked Holden
Johnson, „09.
“Well, he obviously did something
good,” stated Ariana Moffitt, „12.
Casimir Pulaski, a Polish nobleman,
lived from 1745 to 1779. He led an unsuccessful revolt against the Russians trying to
take control of Poland.
He later fled to France in 1775, where
he met Ben Franklin who persuaded him to
join the American colonist war against
Great Britain.
He was promoted to Brigadier General
after his outstanding work in the battle of
Brandywine under the command of General
George Washington in 1777.
He organized his own independent unit
of cavalry called the Pulaski Legion.
He and his troops went to South Carolina in 1779 to assist General Benjamin Lincoln and his French troops against a British
attack.
Pulaski assumed command of both the
French and American cavalry during the
attack after the French General was
wounded.
He raised the soldiers‟ spirits with his
example of courage, but was fatally
wounded and died two days later.
He was named “Father of the American
Cavalry.”
Pulaski Day is widely celebrated in areas
with large Polish populations, especially
Chicago with the world‟s largest Polish
population.
Many schools throughout Illinois receive
a day off to honor Pulaski‟s accomplish-
ments.
“I like Pulaski Day. It gives me a day
off,” expressed Johnson.
“I think it‟s great, as long as I live in
Illinois,” added Kit Grote, „09.
In the northern parts of the state, many
federal buildings receive a day off as well.
Pulaski day is celebrated only in Illinois,
mainly in Chicago. It is very closely related
to the national holiday General Pulaski Memorial Day, celebrated by many Polish communities throughout the country in places
like Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
“We celebrate Pulaski Day by sleeping
in,” shared Grote.
But, does MV know anything about
Casimir Pulaski and his great accomplishments?
“I honestly don‟t know anything,” admitted Johnson.
“I think he was a general in World War
II,” guessed Grote.
“He was Polish!” exclaimed Moffitt.
VERNOIS NEWS
News
News, Page 5
Students, staff face weather woes
By Kent Almaroad
VERNOIS NEWS
With the recent ups and downs of the
temperature, have MV students brought
out their shorts and flip-flops a bit too
soon?
A high of 76, followed by a quick
rainfall, then below freezing temperatures, all within two days?
This has been the trend for almost a
month now.
“The weather outside is frightful!”
joked band director Mr. Frank Winchester.
“Mother Nature is being bipolar,”
added Tyler Fuller, „12. “The weather
doesn‟t seem to know what it is doing.”
The general consensus from MV students and staff alike is that Southern
Illinois weather is a roller-coaster.
As cold as it has been, should we
expect any more snow this year?
“Heck no!” exclaimed Mrs. Hannah
Rodgers, art.
“No way, are you serious?” urged
Laina Parsell, „09. “It better not!”
VERNOIS NEWS photo/Kat Bullock
Corey Gibson, „12, dressed in warm-weather attire, laughs as Zack Kohler, „10, shivers
in his hoodie and jeans. The fluctuations in the weather have led to many different
types of clothing being worn on campus.
Hutchison becomes familiar
with library, loves new role
By Joel Harrison
VERNOIS NEWS
Mrs. Hutchison: We all
know her kindness as a
librarian or her leadership for Hi-Tri. But how
many really know Mrs.
Carol Hutchison?
Mrs. Hutchison has
worked at MV for 13
years, and for 12 of
those years, she was the
head of the book room.
Now, in her thirteenth
year, she works in the
library. Not only does
she issue books to stuVERNOIS NEWS photo/Vernois Archives
dents, but she also co- Mrs. Carol Hutchison, Library Assistant, happily looks up a book
sponsors Hi-Tri along- title for a student. Mrs. Hutchison is in her thirteenth year of
work at MV, but has only worked in the library during the 08side Ms. Tami Lovin.
One might wonder if 09 school year.
being a librarian was
Mrs. Hutchison‟s dream all along, or if growing up, she had other plans.
“Growing up, I wanted to be an English teacher,” said Hutchison.
Even so, Mrs. Hutchison states her love for the job.
“My favorite thing is working with the students [and] helping students
and staff,” she explained.
According to Mrs. Hutchison, her greatest accomplishments are her
“children and grandchildren.”
Accord in g
t o
www.weather.com, there is
no snow in our forecast, so
you can let loose a sigh of
relief.
With warmer weather
comes the necessity for
lighter clothing.
What do students like to
wear in order to keep cool?
“I like to wear a cute
short-sleeved shirt and flipflops,” stated Parsell. “But
on cold days, I wear sweaters and boots.”
“I like to wear layers no
matter what,” added Mrs.
Rodgers. “That way I can
take some off if I get too
warm.”
Everyone is hoping that
the warm weather will
come to stay.
However, we can only
wait and see.
Students at MV are
keeping their jackets handy,
just in case.
Guidance office
yields opportunity
By Kyle Lamichhane
VERNOIS NEWS
From changing and dropping classes to helping senior students with scholarships, the Guidance Office is always busy.
But now that the last semester is underway, what‟s going on
in the Guidance Office now?
“We are registering students for next year for the freshman academy,” explains Mrs. Kara Andrews, Guidance Counselor.
On the scholarship front, the Guidance Office is always
busy advertising the various scholarships available, especially
at this time of year, according to Mrs. Andrews.
“This is the biggest scholarship time of the year,” said
Mrs. Andrews.
What are some of the most exciting moments in the guidance office?
“Every day is different and brings its own exciting elements,” stated Mrs. Andrews.
How do the counselors bond?
“We are all a well-bonded group. Our personality bonds
together to form a light-hearted bond,” said Mrs. Andrews.
What are some of the plans for 4th quarter?
“We will be very deep into getting the schedules. Getting
the seniors ready to graduate and head to college,” commented Mrs. Andrews.
Seniors: Remember to turn in the Rotary Lumbattis
Scholarship application by April 17
Page 6, Feature
Feature
VERNOIS NEWS
Kassner cruises in hot wheels
How would the collection of Mr. Kassner‟s compare to others?
Tonight Show host Jay Leno might have the best in the world,
with over 84 cars and 73 motorcycles. Maybe Mr. Kassner is not up
“Vroom, Vroom” is music to MV
there yet but in time he might
math teacher, Mr. David Kasssurpass Jay for the title.
ner‟s ears. He owns a wide variSome of the vehicles one
ety of cars that many may not
might see Mr. Kassner cruising
know about.
in, include an Oldsmobile 98,
Since Mr. Kassner was a boy,
Plymouth Cranbrook, Cadillac
he has always enjoyed cars from
Fleetwood, Cadillac Seville,
the way they drove to especially
Cadillac DTS, Ford Bronco,
how they looked.
Chevy Impala SS, and a Nissan
“My dad used to be inter300 ZX.
ested in them and that got me
“I can‟t get any more; I
into them too,” stated Mr. Kasshave no more space to put
ner, Math
them,” stated Mr. Kassner.
Mr. Kassner owns a variety
So he may not be chalof vehicles, including older,
lenging Jay for it, but he says
unique-looking vehicles, and it
“right now I am fine, but
makes quite a collection.
someday I would like to get a
“I currently have ten cars
Corvette,” mentioned Mr.
that sit around,” explained KassKassner, so only time will tell.
VERNOIS NEWS photo/Jamey VanZandt
ner.
There are certain cars
Mr. David Kassner‟s super sharp „09 Chevy Impala SS sits in G parking lot awaiting its driver. Mr. Kassner owns
Having a collection of cars ten cars of many different models and years.
that might have sentimental
must take a lot of work to keep
value to the owner.
them all in good condition.
“My dad‟s car has always been one of my favorite cars,” added
From cleaning them to changing the oil in every single one.
Kassner.
“I like to work on them a little bit, nothing too major,” menA lot of super stars usually have a fine collection of cars, so is
tioned Kassner.
Mr. Kassner a hidden star?
Out of all the cars someone usually has a favorite they pay extra
“I just enjoy cars, simple as that,” admitted Kassner.
attention to.
“ My favorite one is my „69 Cadillac,” stated Mr. Kassner.
By Jacob Alvis
VERNOIS NEWS
Students plan their Spring Break experience
And dedicated athletes, they‟ll have to spend their time off
with practices and possibly games or meets.
“I will still have dance practices over the break, which is good.
April 6 through 13 can mean any
Every time we take a break, I feel so
number of things for students as it
out of it by the time we come back,”
is the set date for spring break.
stated Kirsch.
What are student‟s plans?
1. Puerto Vallarta, Mexico
“I will have softball over break,
“I‟m getting my wisdom teeth
but I enjoy it. I don‟t have to worry
2.
Miami,
Florida
carved out of my face,” mourned
about school and I can focus on pracDarwin Walters, ‟10.
3. Mazatlan, Mexico
tice or the game much better,” said
For some of the fortunate,
Katie Hicks, ‟10.
4.
Bahamas
spring break means a bit of vacaWith all their free time some plan
tion time to get away from home
5. Daytona Beach, Florida
to accomplish a goal for break.
and work to relax.
“Sitting on the couch and getting
6. Cancun, Mexico
“I plan on going to Florida with
fat … my goal is to gain six pounds this
my best friend and her family. It
7. Acapulco, Mexico
year,” informed Trisha McPheeters,
will be a blast,” said Samantha
‟10.
8. Myrtle Beach, South Carolina
Allen, ‟10.
Although some will have late nights
“I‟m going to Disney World
9.
Key
West,
Florida
at work or early mornings at practices,
with the band for part of break,”
students agree it will be nice not being
10. South Padre Island, Texas
informed Brett Tucker, ‟10.
at school.
But for some of the unfortu“The best part about spring break
11.
Palm
Springs,
California
nate, though, spring break may
is the time away from school when you
mean something different. Spring
12. Lake Havasu, Arizona
need it most. Spring is my favorite seabreak is a time off from school,
son and I love spending time outside
13.
Panama
City,
Florida
but not from the workforce.
and with my friends,” stated Kirsch.
“I have to work at Applebees,”
“It‟s a week free from homework and crowded hallways to just
said Erica Kirsch, ‟10. “It won‟t be so bad. It will be mostly nights,
chill. There is nothing better,” added Allen.
so I won‟t miss out on the sunny weather at least.”
By Joel Harrison
VERNOIS NEWS
www.uptake.com
Top 13 Spring Break Destinations
Page 7, Feature
VERNOIS NEWS
Students get into “green” day
By Danielle Forrest
VERNOIS NEWS
March 17, green and leprechauns … what do
all these have in common? It‟s Saint Patrick‟s Day of course! Are MV students celebrating the day?
“I celebrate my birth more so than St.
Patrick‟s Day,‟ explains Phillip Hamerski,‟09.
“I guess there‟s no point of celebrating
if I‟m not Irish,” says Josh Moyer, ‟10.
Wearing green is a tradition of St. Patrick‟s Day and has been for many years.
“I always wear green,” described Hamerski, “I like to get into the spirit of the
day,” he added.
“Most of the time I forget [to wear
green] or wear it by accident,” told Rachel
Bumpus, ‟10.
According to www.history.com is that
St. Patrick‟s Day is to celebrate the anniversary of his death in the fifth century. It is
a religious holiday where people feast in
honor of him. The Irish have observed this
day as a religious holiday for over a thousand years.
Are fellow students familiar with the
history of St. Patrick?
“I know the people are Irish,” stated
Bumpus.
Hamerski said, “I‟ve heard it before but
I don‟t remember it. St. Patrick must have
care days, we had green eggs and ham and
done something special, because he has his
green milk,” recalled Hamerski.
own holiday and his own cathedral.” he
So MV with all of the dyed foods and
explained.
traditions out there, be sure to have a safe
Does the history and the day mean anyand happy “green” day.
thing to MV students?
Six LittLe known St. patrick’S day factS
“It means that I get
a year older because
1. St. Patrick wasn’t Irish. He was born to a wealthy Christian family
it‟s my birthday,” said
in Britain between 300 and 400 A.D.
Hamerski.
“It gives us Irishmen a better reason to 2. At age sixteen, St. Patrick was kidnapped and sold into slavery in
party,” joked Lucas Ireland, where he remained a slave for seven years and grew closer
Wells,‟09.
to God.
Parties and food
colored green seem to 3. St. Patrick is said to have driven all the snakes from Ireland, exbe things people do to
plaining why there are no snakes there to this day.
get into the spirit of
the day.
4. The color originally associated with St.
“The family and I
Patrick was blue, not green.
go to the pub for a nice
tall Coke!” exclaimed
5. Since 1962, tons of green dye have
Wells.
been
dumped into the Chicago River
Hamerski shared, “I
every
St. Patrick’s Day to dye it green.
do it big on my b-day
and double for St.
6. Patrick was said to have used the now
Patty‟s Day.”
“We make green
-infamous clover to explain the three
sugar cookies,” said members of the Holy Trinity, the Father,
Bumpus.
Son, and Holy Spirit to converts.
“Back in my day
Alvis, Dismang unveil Vernois News
Hi-Tri takes break
By Jacob Alvis & Anna Dismang
and title on a page feels pretty good,
too,” stated Minor.
“It‟s nice to have a voice. You can
Every month, the Vernois News is disaffect people with what you write,”
tributed throughout the school. But do
explained Alicia Sheldon, Junior Copeople really know what kind of effort
Editor in Chief.
is put into producWhat haption?
pens when you
“We have to
compare
the
meet a lot of deadVernois News
lines and everything
and the New
must pass an adminYork Times?
istrative
review,”
“The New
explains Leah Minor,
York
Times
Senior Co-Editor in
obviously has
Chief.
more resources
“Proof reading
available
to
is my least favorite
them, but I‟m
part. It‟s not that
VERNOIS NEWS photo/Vernois Archives
sure both the
hard, but it‟s tedi- Opinions Editor, Gabe Cralley, „09, sits typing a story for
NYT staff and
ous,” said Adviser the paper, holding Matilda, the plushy baby doll who has
the
Vernois
graced the newsroom for almost 2 full semesters.
Jamey VanZandt.
Though producing a newspaper takes a lot of hard work News staff are
Although
its and long hours, the staff still finds time to have a little
familiar
with
production is stress- fun.
the
same
ful, there are many
anxieties regarding deadlines and edithings about it that are rewarding.
tor approvals,” commented Minor.
“I love to see students enjoying the
“We have more character than the
finished product, and seeing my picture
New York Times,” joked Sheldon.
By Joel Harrison
VERNOIS NEWS
VERNOIS NEWS
The mysterious society known as Hi-Tri has been
around for generations serving Mount Vernon High.
What exactly is Hi-Tri?
“Hi-Tri is a social and service organization,” informed Ms. Tami Lovin, Guidance. “It used to be to
teach girls how to be young ladies about etiquette,
but it has evolved.”
Hi-Tri is sponsored by the familiar faces of Mrs.
Carol Hutchison and Ms. Lovin. They feature a total
of 75 members from freshmen to seniors.
Hi-Tri Council President is Chelsey Webb, „09.
Senior Chelsea Beaty serves as Vice President.
Most likely you have heard of Hi-Tri for their hard
work they put in to help create the Sweetheart
Dance.
“Our biggest endeavor is Sweetheart. After that
we coast the rest of the year,” stated Mrs. Lovin.
But not only does Hi-Tri work hard to make such
an awesome Sweetheart Dance, but they also have
other activities in store.
“In the spring we have the children‟s festival and
at the end of the year is the senior farewell,” added
Ms. Lovin.
Hi-Tri may have flown under the radar, but has
wonderfully served MV in its many years of existence.
Page 8, Feature
VERNOIS NEWS
SpringFling plans to get MV students pumped for break
also trying to “spice things up a bit.”
“We are still doing the dress-up days but this year instead of
the normal college t-shirt day we are going to have only senior supMV students plan to gather for the annual SpringFling week, March
port the t-shirt of the college they plan to attend,” told Shelby
30 through April 2. It‟s sure to be a week of exciting activities.
Timm, „09 student council member.
“SpringFling is so much fun! It
Of course the sophomores, junMonday, March 30
really helps get me excited about
iors, and seniors know what to exSpring Break and reminds me that the
Wear a university/college t-shirt
pect from this week of fun, but
end of school is just around the cor- Faculty/staff wear college alma mater t-shirt freshmen have not yet experienced
ner!” commented Samantha Allen,
SpringFling.
„10.
“I heard that it is a lot of fun but
This year‟s SpringFling has many
Tuesday, March 31
it is the perfect time to completely
events planned such as: Spirit Days,
torture the freshmen!” expressed
Wear a favorite concert/band t-shirt
Dodge ball Tournament, an Assembly,
Ashton Boyer, „12.
Battle of the Bands, a Coffee House,
A strong continuing tradition
Faculty/Staff Breakfast, and an OutWednesday, April 1
is the making of class t-shirts. Sendoor Extravaganza which includes:
iors wear blue, juniors wear yellow,
Ram Pride clothing
DJ/Music, Inflatables-Bungee Run and
sophomores wear red, and freshmen
Joust, Tug of War, Softball Throw,
wear green.
Marriage Booth, Face painting, Eating
Thursday, April 2
“I love making the shirts. Every
contest, Teacher ImpersonationsClass Color Day, SpringFling t-shirt day year a bunch of us girls get together
Performance-Lip Synch, Physics
at someone‟s house and spend the
Booth, Sidewalk Chalk Drawing, Powder-puff football, and Backyard
entire night making shirts,” claimed Laina Parsell, „09.
games including Potato Sack Races, Egg Toss, Wheel Barrow Races,
Weather has been an issue the past few years; student council is
3 Leg Races, Washers, Frisbee Golf, and Ultimate Frisbee.
hoping the dates picked will be sure to help make SpringFling a suc“The dodge ball tournament is my favorite event by far. It‟s all
cess.
for bragging rights. My team will dominate!” exclaimed Brain Sipe,
“I just hope it‟s as fun as people say it will be!” expressed Dan„10.
ielle Alvis, „12.
While keeping the traditions of SpringFling, student council is
By Kayleigh McCowen
VERNOIS NEWS
MV bids farewell to 39 year MV veteran, Mr. Brown
teachers,” stated counselor Mrs. Kara Andrews.
“I have a lot of respect for people that care about others,”
stated Mrs. Crystal Nowak, art.
Several MV teachers are retiring this year, one of whom is counselor
“Mr. Brown has inspired me to do
Mr. Robert L. Brown.
better in school,” stated Brock Baltzell,
Mr. Brown has touched many stu„10.
dents‟ hearts, helping to chart and
Mr. Brown‟s has worked hard for MV
guide the way to their future for many
for the past 39 years.
years. MV will bid him farewell in May.
“Mr. Brown‟s retirement is well deMr. Brown has been a part of the
served and he should definitely enjoy it.
MV campus, working with high school
However, he will be missed in the ofstudents for 39 years.
fice,” stated Mrs. Andrews.
Mr. Brown taught American History
Mr. Brown‟s plans for retirement
at MV for two years before moving to
will consist of nothing other than doing
the Guidance Office in 1972.
what he does best caring for others, and
On top of teaching and counseling
putting others before himself.
at MV for 39 years, Mr. Brown has
“I‟ve always wanted to do volunteer
taught GED classes at Rend Lake Colwork,” stated Mr. Brown.
lege since 1980 and American History
Mr. Brown plans on giving back to
since 1991.
VERNOIS NEWS photo/Kat Bullock the community volunteering wherever
Mr. Brown also taught grade school Guidance Counselor, Mr. Robert Brown works at his desk in A building‟s
he feels it is needed most.
in District 80 at Edison Grade School Guidance Office. Mr. Brown plans to retire after almost 40 years of service
Mr. Brown hopes to leave an impact
for two years before he began his ca- to MV.
at MV.
reer here at MV. Over his long career,
“I hope I helped young people feel better about themselves,”
Mr. Brown has shown dedication to working with young people.
stated Mr. Brown.
Students and teachers alike around campus have encountered
Looking back Mr. Brown can be found in yearbooks dated back
Mr. Brown at least once in their years here at MV.
to the 1970‟s.
“He smiled and waved at me one day while I was driving around
“Mr. Brown is the ONLY man that looks the same as he did in
campus. It just made my day,” stated Jon Mofitt, ‟10.
the 1970‟s yearbooks, minus the afro,” laughed Mrs. Andrews.
Mr. Brown inspires many with his kindness and willingness to put
others in front of himself.
“The way he helps students is something we should all follow as
By Jared Hammond
VERNOIS NEWS
Congratulations, Mr. Brown
VERNOIS NEWS
Page 9, Feature
MV students deal with anger management
By Beloved Porter
VERNOIS NEWS
Anger can often spring up in the nicest people. Many times students
have anger management problems and are too embarrassed to get
help.
Are there ways to help students talk about their problems so
they can be helped?
MV social worker Mrs. Christine Renthe believes so.
“The first step it to identify someone with an anger issue,” said
Mrs. Renth.
Students often show people that they have a problem with anger. But, some don‟t show they have problem, and are in denial.
“The next step in helping students is to have them identify that
they have an anger problem”, said Mrs. Renth
Students with anger problems want to feel like there is someone
out there to help, but first the students have to know where to find
help.
“Students can go to their guidance counselor, school social
workers, and comprehensive mental health workers or there are
multiple independent counselors” said Mrs. Renth.
When getting angry, there are steps one can take to release
your anger.
“Give yourself permission to express anger, combine mental and
physical effort, and never hurt others in the process. Strive to forgive,” said Howard Richman of Sounds Feelings Publishing.
There are different categories of anger. For example there is a
Hidden Style, Explosive Styles, and Chronic Style.
The Hidden anger style is very common it means that a student
is partly or mostly unaware/unaccepting of their anger.
He or she is angry but tries to hide the fact that they are angry
at a person or situation. Then it is too late, and he or she explodes.
Explosive anger style is when the individual periodically demonstrates their anger and aggression through dramatic outburst.
One can usually be triggered by anything and when he or she is
angry, they will explode and people can be hurt.
Last, but not least there is the Chronic anger style, where people develop long-term anger patterns that keep them angry, bitter
and resentful.
This is when he or she is very angry all the time; nothing can
cheer that person up. For the rest of their lives they are grumpy
and her or she can be explosive.
There are students all around that need or ask for help with
these problems. Students have ways of coping with their anger
problems too. They may or may not be a good way to handle the
problem though.
“If I‟m really mad I hit things. If I‟m angry at a person, I often
get into a conflict or fight,” said Shanee Gonzalez, „09.
“I listen to music to calm me down,” says Dynesha White, „12.
When students get mad they can scare themselves or their loved
ones. They can lose friends and trust with people.
Some students can hurt themselves or others if they don‟t get
help.
“It doesn‟t scare me. I usually scare other people. I know they
are usually scared when they cry,” said White, „12.
“Later when I stop think about it, I‟m shocked. A lot of people
that know me think I‟m crazy,” said Gonzales.
Counselors are here for students if they want to talk and their
doors are always open. But if a student is talking about hurting
themselves or someone else the counselor then has to report it.
“Anger is hard to deal with. A lot of people don‟t want to talk
about it,” said Mrs. Renth
Getting help rather then suffering in your anger will lead you a
better future.
Seniors prepare for graduation
By Alexis Nulsen
VERNOIS NEWS
As the days and weeks tick by, MV‟s seniors anticipate the last bell
to a new life. SIU of Edwardsville? SIU of Carbondale? St. Louis
University? The Navy? A full time job? All the options after high
school seem endless, but are MV‟s seniors ready to be on their own
in just a few short weeks? What do MV‟s seniors have planned?
Many seniors plan on attending college after high school. With
so many to choose from, it can be a nerve-racking experience.
“I‟m thinking about McKendree,” commented Sean Wiegel, „09.
Wiegel stated that he would rather go straight into a university
instead of a community college.
Caleb Cross, 09, is still weighing his options.
“I‟m either going to go to Southern Illinois University of Carbondale or Rend Lake.”
Courtney Staples, „09, already has her plan to go to Rend Lake
to major in Early Childhood Education.
With so many expenses that come with college, what do these
seniors have planned for income?
“I am going to go to school and work full time at Hardee‟s, I‟ll
be a manager in like a week,” declared Staples, „09.
Cross, on the other hand, is going to have to find a job somewhere to pay for college.
“I figured maybe I could get an internship at Field Grade
School,” stated Wiegel.
MV‟s teachers and administrators are applauded for their efforts
in preparing our seniors for their new life.
“They have helped greatly. They have taught me maturity, respect and responsibility,” described Wiegel.
For Staples a specific teacher has given her the guidance she
needs. “Mrs. Brittany Boldt has definitely taught me a lot. She has
guided me through the things I need to know,” commented Staples.
Within the last four years here at MV, many seniors have had
some of the best times of their lives. From high school dances to
relationships, they are all a big part of growing up.
“There are tons of good memories here. I am nothing but smiles
when I walk through these halls,” said Wiegel.
Cross stated, “I have had a really good time, possibly too good
of a time.”
With all of these good memories here at MV, the emotions that
come along with leaving become a pressing matter.
“I am nervous about moving out and being on my own, but in a
way it‟s really exciting!” exclaimed Staples.
Wiegel is nervous about being on his own and starting his own
life, but on the contrary Cross is extremely excited to be on his
own.
“I have enjoyed high school, but I‟m ready to move on,” commented Cross.
Odds & Ends, Page 10
VERNOIS NEWS
Odds & Ends
Riddle Me This
Sometimes everything is not what it seems. Can you figure out these “what am I” riddles?
1. I am the fountain from which no one can drink. For many I am considered a necessary link. Like gold to all I
am sought for, but my continued death brings wealth for all to want more.
2. If a man carried my burden he would break his back. I am not big but leave silver in my tracks.
3. My voice is tender, my waist is slender and I‟m often invited to play. Yet wherever I go I must take my bow
or else I have nothing to say.
4. No legs have I to dance, no lungs have I to breathe, no life have I to live or die, and yet I do all three.
5. What is greater than God, yet more evil than Satan. All rich people want it, and all poor people have it, but
if you eat it, you will die.
6. I have an eye but cannot see. I am stronger and faster than any man alive but I have no limbs.
1. Oil 2. A snail 3. A violin 4. Fire 5. Nothing 6. A hurricaine
TXT L8R?
Though we can‟t text during class time, try some
of these interesting text abbreviations during
passing periods, lunch time, and before and
after school.
TNSTAAFL—There‟s no such thing as a free lunch
WDALYIC—Who died and left you in charge?
X! - Means “a typical woman”
YWHNB—Yes, we have no bananas
MTFBWU—May the force be with you
@TEOTD—At the end of the day
NALOPKT—Not a lot of people know that
AYTMTB—And you‟re telling me this because?
UR2WYS4ME—You are too wise for me
Try our Super Sudoku! To check your answers, log on to www.sudoku-solutions.com/
VERNOIS NEWS
Page 11, Odds & Ends
Odds & Ends
Now You Know
There are no clocks in Las Vegas gambling casinos.
In Iceland, it is rude to leave
a tip at a restaurant.
The average bank robber ends
up with $2,500.
One car out of every 230
made is stolen.
The most popular name in the
world is Muhammed.
There are more plastic flamingos in the world than real
ones.
Dolphins sleep with one eye
open.
Some ribbon worms eat themselves if they can‟t find any
food.
You cannot cry in space due to
the change in gravity.
You breathe over 5 million
times each year.
More people use blue
toothbrushes than red ones.
Rice paper does not have any
rice in it.
The average person laughs 13
times each day.
Men are 6 times more likely to
be struck by lightning than
women.
The toothpick is the most
common object choked on.
Every 45 seconds, a house
catches on fire in the United
States.
He said, She said
“The man who smiles when things go wrong has thought of someone to blame it on.” - Robert Bloch
“Time is a great teacher, but unfortunately it kills all its pupils …”
- Louis Hector Berlioz
“Son, if you really want something in this life, you have to work for
it. Now quiet! They're about to announce the lottery numbers.”
- Homer Simpson
“Flying is learning how to throw yourself at the ground and miss."
- Douglas Adams
“I think the worst time to have a heart attack is during a game of
charades … or a game of fake heart attack.” - Demetri Martin
“Always end the name of your child with a vowel, so that when you
yell the name will carry.” - Bill Cosby
A-maze-ing!
Page 12, The Buzz
The Buzz
Fiddler comes to MV stage
MV Schweinfurth Auditorium hosts 67th operetta
Students take on roles as cast, crew, and more in big show
By Priya Patel
VERNOIS NEWS
The
Fiddler,
Campbell
Walters
“I want that audience saying
„Wow, that was a very
good show,‟” com
mented Mrs. Mary Beth
Mezo, director of this
year‟s operetta, Fid
dler on the Roof.
According
the orchestra makes,” he added.
“Any operetta is a group effort with everyone,” commented Mrs.
Mezo.
To make the operetta successful, there are at least six areas that
need to be covered.
Mr. John McGhee takes care of the vocals and the
choreography. Mr. Joe Brown oversees technical aspects and Mrs.
Dee Ann Ensley organizes costumes for the cast, while Mrs. Donna
Keen directs stage crew and manages the stage.
And of course, we
have Mr. Mays as the orchestra director, and Mrs. Mezo
as the director of the play.
Together, the
weeks of hard
work and
dedication will be
Coming together as the
Tevye,
play known as Fiddler
Quinton
on the Roof.
Sledge
“We all work hard.
I want people leaving
and saying that going to St.
Louis to see a play is a waste
of money,” Mrs. Mezo put
forward.
“[We] work so hard so people who
watch can be transported from MVTHS
Auditorium to the show. I want them to
get their money‟s worth and more,”
explained
“...All day long I‟d
Veronica
Justice,
biddy biddy bum if I
„12.
“Theawere a wealthy
ter is great
man!” - Tevye, the
to be involved in.
dairyman
You learn
many things and meet lots of people,”
added Lamanda Bean, „10.
to the All Mu
sicals website,
Fiddler on the
Roof is a dramatic
love story of a Jewish man‟s three
daughters and his
struggle to hold on
to old traditions.
This play touches the customs of the old days and the
ideas of the new age.
It blends together a love
theme while still showing unfavorable conditions the Jewish
had to face living in Tsarist,
Russia.
Why does this oper
etta matter to MV?
Contrary to the original cast
members on Broadway, this
play will be featuring people
we are all familiar with,
both on and off stage.
Director………………………………………………….Mary Beth Mezo
The time and sacrifice
Conductor…………………………………………….…...Rolland Mays
These students put in is
Assistant Director/Set Design…………….……...Donna Keen
notable.
“We pick out our oper- Producer/Vocal Director/Choreographer..John McGhee
etta before Christmas and
Costumer…………………………………………..…Dee Ann Endsley
then begin preparations,”
Costume Assistant…………………………………...Paige Wallace
Mrs. Mezo said.
“This orchestra practices Production Advisor………………………………Frank Winchester
eight weeks in advance,” Mr.
Sound and Light Director…………………….………..Joe Brown
Rolland Mays, orchestra diBox
Office Coordinators……Lisa Leggans & Kristi Wallace
rector stated. “I appreciate
the sacrifice the band and
Program Editor……………………………………..………..Sarah Lee
The Buzz, Page 13
Thespian Society offers creative outlet
By Phillip Hamerski
VERNOIS NEWS
Clubs, groups, organizations, extracurricular
activities. With so much going on, there has
to be something at MV for you.
If acting, drama, and theater sound like
fun, then you should get involved with the
Thespian Society.
The Thespian Society is an international
organization that produces, attends, and
watches theater shows and productions.
“One of the best ways to learn about live
theater, is to watch live theater,” explained
Thespian Society advisor, Mrs. Mary Beth
Mezo.
But, of course, there is more than meets
the eye to a theater production.
“There are more aspects of live theater
than acting,” stated Mrs. Mezo. “There is the
technical crew, which is lights and things,
stage crew, who handle and make props, and
MVTHS Orchestra
First Violin
*Campbell Walters
Lexi Donoho
Shawn Toliver
Jordan McKelvy
Anthony Hicks
Nathan Holt
Brittany Skorup
Adrienne Doggan
Brianna Jett
Viola
+Darwin Walters
Maria Hernandez
Micha Duncan
Samuel Oligar
Jessica Welch
String Bass
+Caitlin Bullock
Eric Donnellan
Scott Deaton
Matthew McClintock
Flute
Emma Fox
Katie Leevy
Trumpet
Anthony Hallam
Derek Sanders
Adam Jolly
Trombone
Troy Kirkpatrick
Chandler Kirsch
*Concert Master
Second Violin
+Angel Song
Chelsea Cross
Mary Wright
Sarah McClintock
Tate Zook
Haley Snyder
Erin Moore
Jenna Palaez
Shaylah Rector
Kelly Pigg
Ciara Jones
Lataya Smith
Marya Sanders
Chelesie Skorup
Cello
+Juanita Jones
Nick Vosburgh
Danielle Roberts
Accordion Piano
Samantha Allen
Guitar
Connor Burge
Clarinet
Jeanette Odle
Kadesia Patton
French Horn
Colton Burge
Percussion
Brock Baltzell
+Principal
music,” she added.
So even if acting isn‟t exactly your cup of
tea, you can still be a part of the stage crew;
making props and moving scenery around. Or
you could be a part of the orchestra helping
bring productions to life.
What can you gain from being a member
of the Thespian Society?
“The more important thing you can gain
is self-confidence,” explained Mrs. Mezo.
“Plus you meet lots of people and you learn a
lot from things backstage you would never
think about,” she added.
After all the hard work, the entire production comes together; the actors, stage
crew, technical crew, and musical aspects
combine to produce the final product, the
show.
“I love to see from start the finish the
growth of the students, and to see the finished product,” concluded Mrs. Mezo.
Why do YOU participate
in MV theater?
“To be a well-rounded as a person.” David Price, „10.
“I know people enjoy coming to it and
watching. It is worth the time and fun
work for them.” - Lindsey Clark, „12.
“I do this because my life is acting. I
work hard so people who watch can be
transported from MVTHS. I want them
to get their money‟s worth and more.”
- Veronica Justice, „12.
“You get to be someone else on stage.
And as much as I might complain, I like
being challenged.”- Kent Almaroad, „09.
“I don‟t really think of it as „hard work.‟ I
simply do it because I love it! And it is just
so fun!” - Brooke Moore, „12.
“It is satisfying to give a good performance. It is fun to hang out with friends,
and the fact that orchestra members
are graded for their participation isn‟t a
bad incentive either.” - Cambell
Walters, „09.
“I love theater and the MV theater department provides a very supportive
foundation for people who are looking
into going into acting as a career.” Quinton Sledge, „09.
“For some reason I just love singing and
acting for the entertainment of others.”
- Jeanette Straeter, „11.
CREDITS
Stage Crew
Austin Anderson
Shane Bond
Rachel Bumpus
Derek Burwell
Kaycee Collins
Audrey Mayo
Sara Palmer
Priya Patel
Devon Riley
Shaye Riley
Kaleb Sledge
Brett Tucker
Co-Captains
Brandon Calvert Miranda Smith
Technical Crew
Caitlen Bullock Cale Smith
Trenton Phillips Leland Stanley
Shaye Riley Tyler Szarek
Matt Roy Andrew Wall
Cast
Campbell Walters The Fiddler
Quinton Sledge Tevye
Blythe Lee Brown Golde
Hope Wallace Tzeitel
Leah Minor Hodel
Mollie Burdett Chava
Olivia Bullock Shprintze
Brooke Moore Bielke
Courtney Lawrence Yente
Dakota Bodine Motel
Kent Almaroad Perchik
David Price Lazar Wolf
Seth Ellis Mordcha
Samuel Cortez Rabbi
Chris Williamson Mendel
Darwin Walters Avram
Trevor Skidmore Nachum
Cassy Austin Grandma Tzeitel
Katie Bunting Fruma-Sarah
Robert Lockwood Constable
Sean Wiegel Fyedka
Jeanette Straeter Shaindel
Josh Pollard Sasha
Ryan Gibson Yussel
Chorus
Becca Austin Aracely Meyer
Shauna Brandt Tyler McLane
Lindsey Clark Daniel Morrison
Amy Dickerson Monea Patton
Colin Grimes Madison Peterman
Holden Johnson Caleesha Peterson
Adam Jolly Marla Reynolds
Janae Jones Trevor Skidmore
Veronica Justice Kathleen Sledge
Zack Kohler Marlo Smith
John Labbate Melody Staley
Victoria Lewis Shaelynn Tice
Natalie Meador Crystal Westbrook
Brandon Williams-Meeks
Chorus Captains
Cassy Austin Lamanda Bean
Page 14, Commentary
Editorial
VERNOIS NEWS
A VERNOIS PUBLICATIONS GROUP Newspaper
Editorial Board:
Leah Minor, Co-Editor in Chief
Alicia Sheldon, Co-Editor in Chief
Gabe Cralley, Opinions Editor
Mr. Jamey VanZandt, Adviser
Editorial
Extracurriculars provide fun, understanding
Times Square Mall. Nu Bowl Lanes. Wal-Mart.
Students often complain there is nothing to do in MV aside
from the aforementioned venues. After all, MV is quite small,
compared to New York City, Chicago, or even St. Louis, and lacks
some of the entertainment that can often be found in those cities.
However, our little town isn‟t quite as dreary as many people
say if students are willing to look and work a little for it.
The Vernois News staff would like to thank MV for all the great
extracurricular activities it offers. Because of them, this small
town actually has substance and something to anticipate.
When compared to schools in the surrounding area, MV shines
with its many clubs and sports teams. On the outside, MV seems
boring, but if students invest their time in anything from basketball to chess team, they will see a new dimension to this town and
this high school.
No matter what a student‟s interests are, he or she can find
something to do at MV. We have academically-oriented clubs like
Youth and Government, Scholar Bowl, and National Honor Society.
We also have many sports teams, ranging from football to soccer
to wrestling to basketball. In addition to those clubs, we have an
excellent theater program, and many other organizations that may
not fall under either “academic” or “sports” labels.
There is something about a team that inspires students and
brings about a sense of camaraderie to the school. United by orange and black, these teams find more to MV than mere grades.
Extracurricular activities have more of an impact on students
than just titles and records. For many of us on staff, our afterschool activities have led us to pursue different academic and career goals.
They open our eyes to options that may not have been seen as
viable for the longest time to a whole new world of opportunities.
The activities also bring students together with others they may
have never met outside of their respective groups.
In these activities, students also have a chance to come in
contact with students who may not even live in our community.
Though extracurricular organizations frequently compete with
other schools, the competition is not typically conducive to hatred, but rather, it builds relationships between the schools.
What we need at this point in our country‟s history is unity,
more than anything, and that is what is frequently achieved from
extracurricular activities because from these organizations, students achieve a unique sense of community and the desire to work
together.
When students learn to work together, they find common
ground. When students find common ground, they find understanding. When students find understanding, they find a bigger
and wider glimpse of this world and how it works.
If we could all come together and learn from each other, be it
through football or Youth and Government, we as students would
have the ability to change this community and the way it works,
functions, breathes, and lives.
Don‟t sit back for these four years. Get involved.
VERNOIS NEWS
SADD addresses risks,
dangers of meth
MVTHS SADD Chapter
PRESS RELEASE
For some reason, teachers and schools thought that they should lay
down material on “real issues” when we reached eighth grade.
It‟s almost impossible to forget about the enraged correctional
officer with watermelon-sized biceps, spitting, “What‟s my
name?!” (Obviously, you know the answer).
Another memorable event was the assembly on meth. Photographs of a meth addict going from a young woman to the mummy of
Ramses II were passed through the bleachers as the police officers
told us the exact method used to fabricate the drug.
Perhaps eighth grade mentality softened the blow of the message, but the dangers of meth are still unknown to many.
Meth is an addictive stimulant that can be injected, inhaled, or
smoked. The highs and rushes can last anywhere from a couple of
minutes to eight hours.
The obvious problem associated with meth is the constant need
for the drug. However, there are other long-term problems such as
paranoia, hallucinations, and aggressive behavior.
The drug also damages vital parts of the body. Meth destroys
brain cells and blood vessels, and can cause strokes, breathing problems, and physical disorders like Parkinson‟s disease. Meth can even
cause severe dental problems in long-term meth users.
Though not many treatment options are known for meth addiction, a system called the Matrix Model has been used by many meth
users and has been effective. The system integrates drug therapy
with other activities like family and individual counseling. More information for treatment can also be found at the Anti-Meth campaign
website, www.methresources.gov.
We‟re all more mature than our eighth grade selves. Be aware of
the dangers of meth.
In Loving Memory of
Dr. Fred Winters
1964-2009
Pastor of the First Baptist Church of
Maryville
VERNOIS NEWS
Opinions
Page 15, Opinions
Senior defends, appreciates MV
but they are still standing. MV‟s buildings are safe for everyone to
walk the halls. No matter how old the buildings get, they will still
be a great place for learning. We do not need escalators and a
The past four years here at MV have been ones
McDonald‟s to have a better school. The only
that I will never forget. My experience here on
thing a school needs is love to be a great
the MV campus has been a great one. I have met
school. If everyone would stop talking down
many new people. I have gotten to know most of
the school and how old it is, we could start to
the teachers at a personal level. I have learned
appreciate it. Everyone should be glad to exwhere each and every classroom is. I have heard
perience their high school years in buildings that
the good and the bad of each teacher here on
have been around for decades.
the MV campus. I have heard how bad the camSome MV teachers get bashed every day by
pus is and how we need a new school time and
students as they walk the halls. There are some
time again.
teachers whom students cannot stand, while
Many students complain that MV is a bad
other teachers make students want to come to
school. MV is not as bad as everyone makes it
VERNOIS NEWS photo/Erica Kirsch school every day. These are the teachers that
out to be, however. Here at MV administrators A Building stands as an iconic view of MV. It has repre- make school fun for students. Students focus
sented the home of the Rams for over 100 years.
do not require that students wear school unitoo much on the bad. Even though there are
forms. All MV requires is that one‟s pants don‟t sag to the floor and
some negatives, many students still look forward to seeing teachers
one‟s bosom does not hang out. MV requires students to take their
and being in their classes each day.
hats off in class and be respectful. MV students really do not have
Leaving MV, I will look back at it as a great school in which I
it as bad as they portray it to be. Here at MV, students are just
grew and learned many things. I will be proud I graduated from it.
required to do the types of things that they know they should do
As a future inspiration to all the students that are so lucky to be
anyway.
enrolled here, appreciate that you are a part of MV history. This is
The school buildings themselves may be old and falling apart,
your school.
By Jared Hammond
VERNOIS NEWS
High school comes, goes
By Torey Williams
VERNOIS NEWS
Many memories come to mind now
that my high school career is close
to an end. There are many memories from my freshman year, but
only one really sticks out in memory. Remember the G Building
fire? How about getting your license? Then there was the infamous riot year. Finally my senior
year. I only have four classes and
get to make money in the afternoon. How does that sound?
I remember the G Building fire
just like it was yesterday. I wasn‟t
actually in G at the time, because I
was in F Building in my Word Processing class. I just remember typing my paper that was due, and for
some odd reason I had to get up
and throw something away. That
was when I noticed that the building was being evacuated, and the
fire trucks were arriving. Apparently someone just had the urge to
set something on fire so they decided to set a toilet paper dispenser in that boy‟s bathroom on
the lower level on fire. Why such
chaos?
My sophomore year was all
about getting my license. When I
finally got it, I thought I had total
freedom … until my parents had
me running errands for them. I
mean, it was really fun driving
around town and all, but I just
wanted some “me time”. I just
wanted to be free and do whatever
I wanted.
Junior year was about the riots. I really wasn‟t here at the
time because I was in the hospital.
Wouldn‟t you say that sounds like a
lot of fun? I didn‟t think so. My
brother and my cousin came into
my room and told me that there
was a fight, and a riot, just about a
doughnut. Wow. I don‟t think a
doughnut is that important to argue and fight about.
My senior year is still in the
make and is not yet over. The
main memory from this year is being in the co-op program. By not
having any classes in the afternoon, I get to go into the world of
work at Dairy Queen and make
some money. I get some pretty
good hours, too. Twenty-five hours
a week may not sound so good to
some people, but when you get
paid weekly, it‟s worth it. You get
to go and buy yourself things that
your parents will not. That‟s the
best thing.
So here you go, MV. These are
my high school memories. I‟m going to miss this high school, but we
all know it has to end sooner or
later.
Summer looms on horizon,
promises fun, memories
was able to see Def Leppard,
and this school year, I caught
Avenged Sevenfold, BuckIt‟s coming. It‟s finally fourth
cherry, Saving Abel, and
quarter and I can taste the
Shinedown.
I hope to see
summer season. I start thinkMotley Crue, All That Reing about how I can make this
mains, Bullet for My Valensummer vacation unique.
tine, and Mudvayne. Music is
Maybe I should take some
the fuel that fuels the fire
time away from work and just
that is my life.
chill at home, or maybe get
I also plan to spend time
the boys together and camp in
with my little brother. He is
the
backwoods
finally old enough
and go mudding
“Take my
to tag along with
for a few days.
me when I take
advice,
don‟t
All I know for
road trips and go
sure is I‟m not
waste
it.”
out to the track to
wasting this sumrace four wheelmer vacation like
ers. I‟m usually hesitant to
I think I‟ve done in the past.
let him join in because I don‟t
Past summers have been spent
want to feel like I‟m babysitby doing nothing all day long
ting but he‟s 13 now. He can
waiting for someone to call
handle it.
with a good idea. Pretty borWe don‟t have long „til
ing. Usually when I got a
we‟re out for summer vacaphone call it was a invite to
tion once again. Take my
go to someone‟s house and
advice, don‟t waste it. Make
think of something semithis summer a memorable
productive to do. But now as
one. Spend time with your
this summer approaches, I can
family, hang with friends,
think of several things that I
work hard, and maybe get in
want to do.
some trouble. Whatever it
I do know for sure that I
takes, make it stand out in
want to see as many concerts
your mind for years to come.
as possible. Last summer I
By Connor Wilson
FEATURE EDITOR
Opinions, Page 16
Dogs prove better than people
By Priya Patel
VERNOIS NEWS
Sometimes I think dogs are better than people. I say this because I
place myself in the human category. I like dogs because I feel that
they behave better than humans (Yes, I‟m saying a dog behaves
better than I).
Dogs don‟t need a whole lot. If provided with food and health
care, then they are good to go. Many dogs live outside, so it‟s not
even necessary to give them shelter. They sit in their corner and
mind their own business (just like adorable elderly people).
Humans, though, we demand that everything go our way and
look at our direction (here is when I insert to say bluntly, we are
attention hogs). Our pastime includes primping and priming ourselves, talking about others, and complaining about nonexistent
troubles in life.
I pause now to say, sure there are people who deserve to complain, and by all means, continue to do so. Just remember to
breathe once in a while.
In case nobody finds themselves in any of the categories just
stated, they are not cool. Why would people go about their daily
lives when they could talk about other people‟s lives? In fact, they
may get brownie points with the crowd if they start a rumor or two.
To be cool, one must carry a mirror. This will insure that the
said person looks their best at all times. Furthermore, it puts out
the aura that they care only about looks. The whole “beauty on the
inside” is just cliché now. What really matters is how bad someone
else‟s hair looks, so everybody could compare it to theirs … and
then talk about it later. Comfort is not a factor in determining
coolness. Therefore, comfort is not an option.
Last, but never, ever, the least, don‟t stop complaining. The
more complaints, the more other people will pay attention. Be sure
to complain about useless things, like electronics, make-up, or how
dirty the shoes look. The important things one complains about
doesn‟t make them cool.
Remember that people fall in the human category. Humans
only care to raise drama and turn as many heads as possible. Cool
humans are the ones who succeed in it. So if anyone still thinks
humans are better than dogs that mind their own business or keep
coming back to the owner who beats them, then I think that person
is officially a cool kid. The cool kid could now bask in the glory of
the tears produced using cruel machines of psychological torture.
Or maybe the “sorry” never given to the person whose feet were
stepped on while coming through the door is good enough.
Don‟t get mad at me … remember, I said the people are cool
now. Things like “sorry” and “thank you” don‟t matter anymore.
VERNOIS NEWS
Singers elude ears of audience
Seriously, we‟ve all seen
High School Musical and know
that Vanessa Hudgens, Zac
Many people can remember the Efron, Corbin Bleu, and Ashley
days when singing actually took Tisdale do not even begin to
talent. Lip synching and voice- compare to Stevie Nicks, Luther
overs were simply unheard of.
Vandross, Martina McBride, or
It used to take time and Celine Dion.
effort to make it to the top.
Those artists
Then, they didn‟t
made it big when
simply
stumble
it
wasn‟t
all
across fame beabout chance or
cause of some bubluck.
They
ble gum acting on a
worked to get
Disney
Channel
there and they
movie or because
deserved it.
their dad had an
The list goes
outdated number
on and on with
one
hit
called
all these artists
“Achy
Breaky
making millions
Heart”.
VERNOIS NEWS photo/www.thepopfix.com of
dollars on
But everyone Zac Efron, one of Disney‟s discoveries,
voices
that don‟t
sweats over his poor music. He thought
can‟t be as lucky as he sang “Now or Never” well.
even
remotely
Taylor Swift who
sound like their
happened to be found while she own.
was doing her squealing, or soWhy would someone want to
called “singing”, at a café and become famous having all their
there just so happened to be fans think they‟re something
someone in the crowd who‟s they‟re not? They come out on
starting a new record label and the stage, sing live and sound
needed someone with a pretty painfully terrible. It‟s almost
face to get himself started.
embarrassing to watch some
After seeing Taylor sing artists‟ concerts.
dreadfully at the CMA‟s and
Unless you‟re like Ashlee
Grammy‟s, pure talent cannot Simpson who completely lip
have been what she was found synchs, that is, until her CD
for. Everyone saw her appalling skips. It‟s just shy of complete
performances that were hard dishonesty to people who actufor even her most dedicated ally enjoy her songs.
fans to watch.
Where have all the good
On the other hand, there‟s singers gone?
Disney, the sole culprit of all
Until they‟ve been found
these little actors and actresses again, people with good taste
thinking they can sing. Last will continue to play the songs
time I checked, they couldn‟t of real, true musical giants with
even act let alone try desper- real voices.
ately to sing.
By Alyssa Moffitt
VERNOIS NEWS
Childhood memories resurface, invoke nostalgia
By Danielle Forrest
VERNOIS NEWS
Remember back when everything was easy?
Back when one of the hardest things to do was share your toys?
Or even eat everything on your plate? … including vegetables.
Well, I don‟t know about you, but I sure miss those days sometimes when things nowadays get hard.
I remember my good ol‟ daycare days when I got to play all day
with friends and other kids there. We would always go outside and
play on the huge (or what seemed huge back then) playground.
Most of the time you would see me waiting patiently on deck,
swinging my bat trying to get my “Big Mac” swing down. I was al-
ways the smallest player but I hit some homers every now and then.
When we were inside I would most of the time be drawing or
doing crafts. Creating something that back then I knew what it
was, but if I looked at it today, I wouldn‟t know what it was. But
back then I was proud of my creation.
If I wasn‟t creating something I would be playing hop scotch,
one of the few games I could play for hours and never get tired of.
As years passed there would be homework and that meant one
rule. No playing until work was done. Sometimes that meant I
didn‟t get to play at all.
Don‟t you miss those carefree days when you were little? I bet
now I‟ve made you think of your good ol‟ childhood memories.
VERNOIS NEWS
Columns
Page 17, Columns
Complaints prove useful greetings
By Alicia Sheldon
CO-EDITOR IN CHIEF
My feet hurt, I paid too much for gas today, and I
just lost a million dollars in the stock market.
Now, don‟t you feel like we‟ve connected on
a deeper level?
Truthfully, my feet feel fine, I didn‟t buy any
gas today, and the only time I‟ve invested in the
stock market was when I played Neopets. But as I
nagged about these things, I was doing what so many people do to
connect with other people: complain.
By complaining, people feel as if they are setting themselves
even with those with whom they are speaking. It can put two people
on the same level as they speak together about matters they dislike.
It provides a sort of loose bond between two people and can even
create a foundation for a friendship.
Meeting new people can often times be awkward. It can be
difficult to find things to talk about, especially if you have never
Students love AVC
met this person before. A common point of interest, however, is
complaining. As annoying as complaining sometimes can be, a little
harmless griping can really open someone up to you. (Unless, of
course, complaining annoys them to no end, at which point, you find
someone else to complain to).
“But, I hate complaining!” you say. Oh, do you? Is raising protest
against complaining not a complaint in itself? Even so, if you find
nothing to complain about, you might try a strange joke to break
the ice. Something like, “Do ten millipedes equal one centipede?”
may do the trick. If not, you could always resort to MySpacestalking: Checking their profile every few hours, reading each and
every comment while analyzing its meaning, and then using this new
information to strike up a conversation. It‟s your pick.
No matter how you decide to talk to this new person, or even
just make small talk with an old acquaintance, remember that complaining is almost always a foolproof method. Whether it‟s about
your classes, the weather, or the stock market, you may find that
what you have in common with someone is the dislike of something
else — and that‟s not always such a bad thing.
Poison oak mishap solved
By Trevor Houser
By Davianne Kirk
VERNOIS NEWS
VERNOIS STAFF
Vocational programs at MV provide students with the skills
needed to obtain their career goals in life.
The vocational center is located on the MV campus in
Room 100 F. The center was established in 1966 to meet
the needs of students in the area who desired training in
the Career and Technical Education programs.
The MV Vocational program offers courses not only
to students here on campus but those who attend other
schools such as Waltonville, Webber, and Woodlawn.
Any student who attends any of these schools should
take advantage of the great opportunities that the Vocational programs offer.
I believe MV offering these great opportunities will
help students get a head start on their career lives.
The courses a student can take include #D Animation,
Accounting, CAS/Drafting, Child Care, Cooperative Education, Computer Programming, Culinary Arts, Electronics,
Health Occupations, Manufacturing and Transportation.
All these great courses offer students a head start to
their career path.
Cooperative Education, or Co-op offers students the
privilege of earning 3 high school credits and the ability to
earn cash at their jobs.
In the manufacturing class students learn how to
weld and use a metal lathe. Also the manufacturing department is switching from manual lathe to an automated
lathe called CIVC, which will allow students to take the
part they are wanting to make and send the blue print
layout through the computer to the machine which will
take and cut a piece of steel to the maker‟s exact measurements.
The vocational department is always trying to keep
up with the ever growing development of career technology.
If you are interested in making some good old green
backs in the future and having a good time, students are
urged to sign up for any Vocational class.
It was a sunny late
June day. Waking
up, I had the attitude that nothing
could go wrong. I
had spent the night
at
my
sister
Stephanie‟s house and Charley, my
dog was even allowed to come. The
previous night I went to the drive-in
and saw Adam Sandler‟s new movie
Click. This would be the best weekend ever.
It was breakfast time and I went
down stairs expecting something like
pancakes, my favorite. But no, when
I arrived downstairs I smelled something that could seriously make me
die. Blueberry muffins. Strike one,
for a bad day. My sister knew I‟m
deathly allergic to those dreadful
things. However, I refused to allow
something small get to me.
I decided to ride the go-cart.
There was only one and I knew my
nephew would not beg to use it because he is afraid of it. So no arguing, that‟s good. I did doughnuts all
over the lawn and I did not wreck
into any trees. However, when I finished I tripped over a tree root. My
knees were covered in dirt and
skinned up. Strike two towards a bad
day.
Oh well, I was determined to
have a good day. I went and got
Charley and we ran out to the creek.
Charley is a cocker spaniel and a
rather big boned one. We played
fetch and when he jumped into the
creek his heaviest end sank, his butt.
I took my maroon and gold high top
Chuck Taylors off and jumped in after him. I helped Charley out of the
creek and decided I‟d stay in a
while.
Eventually it began to get dark
and I knew I needed to go back up to
the house. I sat on a log and laced up
my Chucks.
Guess what! It was not the best
weekend ever. Perhaps it was one of
the worst weekends ever. I could not
go on a trip with some friends due to
that little mishap I had. Not only am
I allergic to blueberries, I am highly
sensitive to poison ivy and oak. My
feet were swollen that entire week
and I quit swim team due to it. I had
no idea why I had received the poison. Every time my poison oak would
go away, it would come right back.
The reoccurring case of poison oak
was an unsolvable enigma.
It was not until I grew out of my
Converses and I gave them to my
cousin that I solved this case. She
had mysteriously gotten poison ivy on
her feet when she had done nothing
outdoors. I had placed my shoes in a
poison oak patch before swimming,
case solved!
Now what did I learn from this
miserable mishap? Pay attention to
what you get into. This is not only
just for sticky situations such as
when you step in gum.
Columns, Page 18
Holiday’s true meaning
causes confusion
By Phillip Hamerski
VERNOIS NEWS
St. Patty‟s Day. Does anyone know the origin of this
holiday, or is it just celebrated for an excuse of partying with friends?
I find this to be the same with many holidays. Fore
example, does anyone even know what Casmir Pulaski
did, or do students just not go to school that day because they don‟t have to?
The reason this is brought to my attention is I saw a
lot of people wearing green on St. Patrick‟s Day, but I
saw no one pinching. What happened to the festive
atmosphere of such holidays? But I guess its better that
way considering most people probably don‟t know, or
don‟t care, that St. Patrick was associated with the
color blue, not green.
The green color association drive from “the wearing
of the green”, or to wear a shamrock on one‟s clothes
as is custom in Ireland. So the green derives only from
the deduction that St. Patrick was Irish, so to those who
wore blue on this day I applaud you, even though you
probably didn‟t know what you were doing, it just happened that way.
So the question still stands, if you don‟t know a
holiday‟s true purpose, why do you celebrate it? Is it
just an excuse to party? Another example I can think of
is Christmas. What is the true origin of Christmas? The
celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ, everyone knows
that. However, when was the last time you celebrate
Jesus‟ birthday on Christmas, or is it just when you get
presents from your family members?
VERNOIS NEWS
Harrison awaits Spring
Also,
this
spring is the
last time most
March 20 is a big day
of us will be in
for my friends and I,
the same school
as it is the official
together.
On
start to spring. As the
the bright side,
air starts to warm and
it‟s the last
the shorts begin to
time we will be
come out, it is a great
in high school,
lift in spirit for me
period. Seniorand my fellow outitis is starting
doorsmen.
I
love
to hit most soon
spending time outside
-to-graduate
… after three or four
students. Not a
months
of
cold
great thing for
weather, it‟s refreshgrades, but a
ing.
lot of us seniors
The crew of senhave hit cruise
iors, which normally
control in our
ranges around ten of
work
efforts.
us, now spend our
Personally,
I
free time and weekhave
already
VERNOIS
NEWS
photo/Kat
Bullock
ends picking up a
signed up for
game of basketball or Emma Fox, „11, plays hacky sack after school.
my fall classes
Games of hacky sack are frequently seen
Ultimate
Frisbee. across campus due to the great spring
in college. The
There isn‟t anything weather.
need to work
much better. Our only
has declined. I
problem is that most of us have
now go to school relaxed and worry
started up with baseball or track,
free.
which take up a lot of time. But we
In the end, with the beginning
do find time. Every one of us is alof warm weather and the graduation
most always down for a game. All
date coming up, I‟ve decided spring
you have to ask is, “Ball?”
is the greatest season.
By Joel Harrison
VERNOIS NEWS
Rumors flood MV
By Alyssa Moffitt
VERNOIS NEWS
MV students believe everything they hear.
They believe everything from ridiculous rumors about our new
president, Barack Obama, to bizarre rumors about other students.
Many would think that fourteen to eighteen year olds would be
mature enough to not listen to gossip.
They‟ve heard it all their live from adults. “Don‟t believe everything you hear.” “Did they tell you that themselves?” “Did you see
it for yourself?
It‟s very sad that most don‟t even care if the rumor is true or
not, they just want to hear some juicy gossip about the people they
dislike for usually no reason besides pure jealousy.
Sometimes the adult can even be the culprit of misinformation.
They can tell you rumors about things they‟ve heard, because
yes adults gossip as well.
They tell you not to, but some do turn around and do the same
thing.
You can catch mothers gabbing together in the kitchen. “Did
you hear who was at Gertrude‟s house last night?” “Betty is eating
her feelings, I‟d bed she is a size 5 now!” “Bob and Sue are doing
everything all wrong raising their kids.”
Politics is a great example of adults misleading young, learning
brains.
So much false information was passed through word of mouth
about this past election on both candidates. It continues to keep
happening.
“Didn‟t you hear? Obama doesn‟t have a birth certificate; he‟s
getting kicked out of office!” “McCain‟s in the hospitial, he‟s dying
of old age!”
Just because your trustworthy parents or teachers said it,
doesn‟t make it true.
What makes it true is seeing it for yourself.
School would be a lot less stressful if people weren‟t constantly
trading false information.
Why are students now worried more about the lives of their
peers than their own life?
If it doesn't have anything to do with you, then why does it
make such a difference if you know or not?
Lots of students are depriving themselves of having new
friends because they believe all the bad things people say about
them.
They automatically think that person is a bad person without
even attempting to get to know them.
If you didn‟t see it happen or didn‟t hear it for yourself, do
yourself a favor and investigate if it truly is an important issue.
VERNOIS NEWS
A&E
Page 19, A&E
Downtown Venues Host Concerts
By Darlene Wyatt
VERNOIS NEWS
March is full of concerts and shows with the approaching warm
weather, and several events will take place in downtown Mt. Vernon
at The Granada and The Living Room.
“Attack! Attack! Is the main reason why I‟m excited about this
month,” said Angie Youroukos, „09.
“And Clocktower Showdown, of
course.”
Concerts are planned by the
owner Tom Shcroeder either by the
bands getting in contact with him or
Burtch Productions, or he contacts
them asking if they would like to play
there.
“They get in contact with tour
managers, and they‟re getting pretty
good at it,” said Youroukos. “Last
year Mt. Vernon came close to getting
Family Force 5.”
7 p.m. on April 10, Icon for Hire, Avenge the Ghost, Adiah, and
The Rose McCoy.
7 p.m. on April 11, Post Mortum, The Drama Scene, and TBA‟s
“Usually shows are seven dollars,” added Youroukos, “It‟s too
affordable, I think.”
On the other hand, shows for
bands with a record label sell tickets
for a little bit more.
“Attack! Attack! Tickets are ten
dollars in advance or twelve at the
door,” said Chelsey McMahon, „09.
The shows are either at the Granada or the Living Room, but usually
at the Living Room. The Granada is
used for bigger shows, such as the
Rock Fest with 14 bands in the lineup.
“Whoever is the most well known
band tends to play last so people can
see them,” McMahon added.
Bands that perform get paid depending on how many people attend
the show.
8 p.m. on March 14, A$hby, Char“It always depends on how good or
lamaine, Peace Love and Tragbad a show did money-wise,” conedy, and Divine Providence.
VERNOIS NEWS photo/Kat Bullock
firmed Youroukos.
7 p.m. on March 17, Arise & Con- Members of the band Stereios give a live performance in downtown Mt.
“It depends how many people
Vernon.
The
Living
Room
plays
host
to
a
plethora
of
musical
acts.
quer Tour w/ War of Ages, Decome to the show,” added McMahon.
stroy the Runner, Adiah, Inhale
When there are shows coming up people go out and hang postExhale, and Hope for the Dying.
ers and spread the word to as many people as possible.
7 p.m. on March 20, Arts and Sciences, A Silent Breeze, and
“Flyers are usually everywhere,” Youroukos stated.
TBA‟s.
The bands performing post information on their sites and post
7 p.m. on March 23, Attack! Attack! (Rise Records), The Final
bulletins to get the word out along with the Living Room‟s MySpace
Hour, Clocktower Showdown, Harp and Lyre, and She Meets
page at www.myspace.com/thelivingroommtv.
Skyline.
13th Season of South Park Premieres
By Caleb Cross
VERNOIS NEWS
The thirteenth season of the hit Comedy
Central television show South Park premiered March 11, 2009.
Here at MV South Park has a strong
following among students.
Adam Brookman, „10, remarked, “It‟s
hard not to watch (South Park) because
everyone‟s always talking about it.
“I‟m excited for the new season.
Last season wasn‟t as good as the older
ones. So I hope it‟s a lot better,” stated
Adam Hurst, „11.
“I really hope it‟s not as disappointing as last season,” agreed Perry Borah,
„09.
In the first episode of the new season
Kenny takes his girlfriend to a Jonas
Brothers‟ concert in hopes of taking their
relationship to the next level where the
Jonas Brothers convince them to wear purity
rings. Eventually it‟s disclosed that their evil,
sadistic boss Mickey Mouse is forcing them to
promote the purity rings.
Pierce Borah, „09, commented, “I loved
the new episode. Mickey Mouse was hilarious.
He kicked the crap out of the Jonas Brothers.”
“There are no other shows quite like it.
It‟s just so original,” shared Brookman.
Courtney Lawrence, „10, stated, “I find
South Park‟s crude humor acceptable because
it‟s backed up by intelligence and current
events.”
South Park‟s satirizing of current pop culture is a common theme found in many of the
episodes.
Mr. Bob Tomlin, Physics imparted, “I love
South Park for its comedy, shock value, and
hidden lessons.”
“I can‟t wait to see how the new season
turns out,” added Nick Sager, „09.
Page 20, A&E
VERNOIS NEWS
Kirk reviews recently released Xbox games
By Davianne Kirk
VERNOIS NEWS
Bullets whiz by helmets; it is a complete war zone. Uncountable
Covenant and Flood soldiers are shot down.
You are playing the recently released Halo Wars. Which debuted March 3.
According to http://www.halowars.com/faq “Halo Wars is the
next real-time strategy game from Ensemble Studios. Designed exclusively for the Xbox 360, Halo Wars allows you to take charge of
the human UNSC armies and see the Halo universe from a totally
new perspective.”
Jordan McKelvey, „09 claimed that there were few improvements on the newest Halo series.
“I played the demo and it was no good,” stated McKelvey,
known as xx iclutch xx on Xbox Live.
Haley Randolph, „11 (whose boyfriend, Phillip Hamerski, interested her in Xbox) said, “I‟ve played Halo 3 but I‟m yet to play Halo
Wars. However, I am pretty excited about it.”
“Halo Wars had bad maps. It is not like you are playing first
person. You can not see your gun. You are basically playing God,”
explained McKelvey.
Halo Wars is not on everyone‟s mind. Travis Carello, „09 is looking forward to owing MLB2K9 which was also released on March 3.
Resident Evil 5
Synopsis: Chris Redfield returns to Africa where
the latest bioterrorism threat is transforming people into mindless creatures.
Halo Wars
Synopsis: Set before the events of Halo 1, the
game lets you lead human armies in their first
battles against the Covenant.
“I have high expectations for MLB2K9. It should be very realistic,” stated Carello.
Resident Evil 5 is to be released March 13. Just when it seemed
that the menace of Resident Evil had been destroyed, Chris Redfield, returning Resident Evil hero, arrives to defeat the latest
bioterrorism threat in Africa.
“I‟m looking forward to the fifth installment of the Resident Evil
series. The fourth was terrifying and it is very intense,” commented
Mr. Jeremy Mays, English.
“I haven‟t ever played any of the Resident Evil games nor will I.
I prefer sports games,” said Carello.
However he says that he may stray from that. “„50 Cent: Blood
on the Sand‟ sounds awesome. I‟ll possibly rent it,” commented
Carello.
February 13, F.E.A.R. 2 was released. What are MV student‟s
opinions on this game now that it has been around?
“F.E.A.R. 2 is really entertaining. It‟s kind of ridiculous because
of the plot, I would hate to ruin it for you though,” said Stephanie
Modert, „11.
The atmosphere and layout was impressive. However, the character was difficult to maneuver and the teammates were pointless.
“It has decent graphics. I couldn‟t play it with the lights off
because it was so scary,” explained Modert.
F.E.A.R. 2 definitely lives up to its name. It feels as though you
are in a horror movie and controlling what goes on.
MLB 2K9
Synopsis: Major League Baseball returns for the
‘09 season with new and improved features.
F.E.A.R. 2
Synopsis: The supernatural suspense story of an
escalating paranormal crisis that threatens to destroy a major American city.
VERNOIS NEWS
Sports, Page 21
Chicago Cubs 2009 preview
By Kyle Lamichhane
VERNOIS NEWS
After a disappointing sweep in the playoffs last
season, the Cubs have reloaded and are geared
up to make another run in the 2009 baseball season.
This off-season, the Cubs made some moves,
but not too many big ones. Milton Bradley was
the biggest name that the Cubs signed.
Brian Sipe, „10, stated, “Milton Bradley‟s
switch hitting ability adds a lot to the Cubs primary right handed line-up.”
“He is definitely the favorite for the MVP,”
Joseph Sweeney, „09 sarcastically stated.
Other acquisitions the Cubs made were P
Kevin Gregg, 2B Aaron Miles, RHP David Patton,
and OF So Taguci. They made many Minor League
signings as well.
There were many rumors made about the
Cubs and Padres making a deal to send P Jake
Peavy to the North Side. If this deal would have
been reached, the Cubs starting rotation would
have been hands down, the best in the Bigs.
One may think Peavy would be a great idea,
right? But according to Sweeney, it may not be
needed.
“Gambling on pitchers is very risky,” he said,
“The Cubs rotation is set this year anyways.”
“Adding Peavy would be a great move,” Sipe
said. “He‟s one of the best pitchers in baseball
and would only add to an already killer rotation.”
The Cubs did lose a few tools in the offseason
as well. Big departures were great utility player
Mark DeRosa, CL Kerry Wood, SP Jason Marquis,
and C Henry Blanco.
“The loss of DeRosa was a huge loss for the
Cubs,” Sipe assured. “He was an all around great
player, and an amazing club house guy.”
The Cubs ran away with the NL Central title in
2008. They are the pre-season favorites this year
for the NL Central.
Sweeney solemnly stated, when referring to
the Bubs chances at another NL Central title,
“Back to Back Division Championships.”
The Cubs will have a rough road to the title
with much improved teams in the NL Central this
season.
“The Astros definitely pose the biggest threat
to the Cubs in the Division this year,” Pierce
Borah, ‟11 pointed out.
“Cincinnati is a good young team with a solid
fan base,” Sweeney said. “They will challenge
the Cubs this year in their Division.
This is the 101st year without a World Series
Title in Chicage. But is this finally the year?
Pierce Borah said it best, spoken like a true
Cubs fan, “Of course. Every year is the year.”
Cards or Cubs?
Cards. Some people say root
for Illinois teams. Cubs are
from Wisconsin, as far as I‟m
concerned.
Mr. Clint Turner, PE
Cardinals. They‟re the closest team to me and that is
where I grew up.
Shaquille Rollins, „12
Cardinals send mixed emotions to MV
By Charlie Hall
VERNOIS NEWS
Spring has started and that means only one thing.
Baseball fans bleeding Cardinal red, ready for the
baseball season to get underway.
How fans at MV think the redbirds will do?
“Barely over .500 but no making it to the playoffs,” stated Jose Rivera, „09.
“They will do alright, this year may be their
year,” said Mrs. Nancy Deaton, Crises Classroom.
“Not too good when they have outfielders
playing second and third base,” stated Mr. Frank
Hartman, Social Studies.
How did they do in spring training? “Not as
good as they could have done, they again a winloss record doesn‟t matter in pre-season,” said
Mrs. Deaton.
“They are hitting the ball good but they
made six errors in a game against the Marlins so
the infield needs help,” stated Mr. Hartman.
Is it best if Albert Pujols and Ryan Ludwick
didn‟t play in the W.B.C.? “No Pujols should have
played for the Dominican Republic team along
with A-Rod and Manny Ramirez,” explained
Rivera.
I have mixed emotions about it because with
a player like Pujols you will get fans all around
the world, and that will promote St.Louis, but we
don‟t want the best players hurt,” said Mrs.
Deaton.
Problems with the bullpen? “They still need
to get a closer,” said Mr. Hartman.
“The bullpen is solid but not as good as before,” stated Rivera.
What should they do with Chris Carpenter?
“I‟d love to see him as a closer,” explained Mrs.
Deaton.
I‟d like to see him as a starter but they need
to make it easy on him,” said Mr. Hartman.
Who should be the closer? “Carpenter,” said
Rivera.
“The closer should be whoever is hot as that
moment,” stated Mr. Hartman.
Who should replace Troy Glaus while he is
hurt? “Don‟t bring up a minor leaguer like Brett
Wallace and put Joe Mather in the third base
position,” said Rivera.
“It looks like they are going to put Mather
there,” explained Mr. Hartman.
Should have the owners been more active in
the offseason? “They should have had more
trades because they don‟t look so great and they
need to be good,” stated Rivera.
Should Schumaker play second base? “He
should play second or third base,” said Mrs.
Deaton.
“No, they need to make a trade for a real
second basemen,” explained Mr. Hartman.
Who should play the outfield? “Rick Ankiel,
Ryan Ludwick and Chris Duncan,” stated Rivera.
“Ankiel, Ludwick and rotate all the other
outfielders,” said Mr. Harman.
Cubs. There is just so much
tradition and the pride of
Illinois. It‟s being there for
your team, win or lose.
Clay Jackson, „11
Page 22, Sports
VERNOIS NEWS
Track and field prepares for spring season
By Marquette Moore
VERNOIS NEWS
While the school year is winding down, another track season is underway. With one
indoor meet around behind them the MV
track team is looking to improve on last
week‟s performance and attempt to win a
South-7 title.
Mr. Clint Turner, Track and Field Coach,
told of how ambitious he was about this upcoming season.
“We are going to try to make a run for
the conference title,” commented Coach
Turner.
The Rams have plenty of new runners
this year including Melvin Martin, „09, Darrel
Mitchell, „09, and Joel Harrison, „09. All are
expected to be key parts of the team this
year.
Winning a South-7 title is no easy task
with a team like Cahokia staying strong
every year, not having very many down
years at all.
Cahokia is defending their South-7 title
once again returning many of their key runners.
Long distance looks to be MV‟s strongest
event, returning seniors Caleb Cross, Perry
Borah, and all-state cross country member,
Campbell Walters.
With Sean Weigel, ‟09, back for shot
put , the Rams look to also make a run at
the South-7 shot put title.
Also returning for the MV Track Team is
star high-jumper, Chandler Kirsch, „09, who
will be looking to win a South-7 individual
title along with many other Rams who will
be pushing to win individual titles.
The Rams track team is making its way
toward the outdoor season which is perfectly fine with the Rams. Many of them
prefer outdoor meets over the indoor meets.
“We don‟t run enough indoors to be very
good at it. A smaller 200m track is different
than what we‟re used to,” commented
Coach Turner.
MV runners also agree that they enjoy
the all day Saturday meets more than the
regular meet during the day.
“I love them,” stated Torrey Pollard,
when asked about the all-day meets.
The Rams will put on a show for the
home town crowd May 5, when they host the
Ram Relays.
The relays are the Rams only home
event this year.
CC provides friendship, camaraderie Rams baseball
had no one Brittany and Karissa were there
season begins
for me. They have literally dropped everyBy Davianne Kirk
VERNOIS NEWS
You see a familiar face,
it‟s been months since
you‟ve even spoken to the
person.
What do you say? Usually nothing, you just smile
and nod. Maybe exchange
a greeting.
It‟s early spring. Track season has begun
and suddenly you spend hours everyday with
the same group of people.
Suddenly that familiar face is your family
and now you have something to say. “Ugh, I
don‟t want to go to practice. What do you
think we‟re doing today?” Those are frequent words.
With that group of people you suffer
together. You bond through pain.
As terrible as that may sound, it is the
truth. My strongest friendships have all originated from a sport.
My best friends Brittany Ezell and Karissa
Johnson graduated last year. I met them
through Cross Country but we got closest
during Track season.
If you asked Karissa about me during
early Track season she would probably have
gone into a rant about the annoying freshmen who she wishes all the worst too.
I would have said the same about her
and included a few inappropriate comments.
It‟s funny how our relationship turned
around.
Relationship discussions with Brittany,
Karissa, and Caleb Cross were always fun for
bus rides home. After that I would go out to
eat with Brittany and Karissa.
In my worst times when I felt as though I
thing and ran for me.
Another great friend I had obtained
through track is Chanda Rogers,‟10.
She is one of the realest people I know
and one of the reasons I decided to run this
year.
I just met Ariana Moffitt, „12 this year.
She and a few others are the highlight of
practice.
Somehow through the pain we manage to
laugh.
There are so many people who my life
would be totally different without that I
have met through athletics.
I think one of my favorite memories of
track season would have to be the practice
where we did the pentathlon. A pentathlon
is a contest including five different track and
field events, ours consisted of 100 dash, long
jump, shot-put, high jump, and 800 run.
For those of you who weren‟t there to
witness the 100 dash, I will try my best to
make it half as funny as it actually was.
A group of three people I will live unnamed, line up for their dash. Coach Harre
says “Go!” and the race begins.
From where I was standing it appears as
though the runner in lane three got into lane
two and managed to trip the runner. The
two pile up and roll about five feet.
The runner in lane one takes the lead with
a huge grin. Her large sun glasses and grin
made it comical.
Lane two runner gets up and finishes second place. The sophomore team won the
pentathlon by a landslide.
Running, I don‟t necessarily enjoy it. I
love the people.
By Darrell Mitchell
VERNOIS NEWS
There are a few new things that are kicking
off baseball for 2009.
Doug Creel and Tom Fulkerson are two
new coaches on the coaching staff.
Coach Creel, long time men‟s basketball coach, is assisting with this year‟s
baseball team.
“I think he will be there as more of a
motivation speaker,” stated Carello, ‟09.
The boys practice six days out of the
week for at least two hours, sometimes
longer.
They have been going over signs and
putting an emphasis on hitting with it being
cold outside to prepare for the first game.
With the weather like it is, sometimes it
can make it hard to hit.
Practices are held here at the baseball
field, and also at the Klein stadium.
Carello stated, “I love our new game
field. Klein is fun to play on and it‟s the
best field in the conference and maybe in
southern Illinois.”
“We play about 30-35 games in a season
so we stay bust and get a lot of games in,”
said Carello.
“Centralia is just
our rival just because
it‟s Centralia and our
game got cancelled
last year and we
couldn‟t play so I‟m
ready to play them,”
proclaimed
Pierce
Borah, ‟10,
VERNOIS NEWS
Sports, Page 23
Strickland reaches success in first year
stated Strickland.
By Ethan O‟Neal
VERNOIS NEWS
Start, Shoot, Slam...Blake Strickland utilized
these skills to advance to the IHSA State Tournament as a freshmen.
Making it to the IHSA Sate Wrestling Tournament takes years of hard work and dedication. It is one of the most prestigious tournament is the United States.
“I started wrestling when I was 5 years
old, and used all that experience for this
year,” stated Blake Strickland, „12.
Experiencing the tournament can only be
likened to as “a kid on Christmas morning,”
but sometimes it‟s not only the competitors
that find joy in it.
“There is nothing like the IHSA state
wrestling tournament,” stated Mr. Scott Tickner, head wrestling coach.
“It was wonderful. The environment was
like a breath of fresh air,” laughed Strickland.
With the tournament being so highly
touted, one has to have a favorite and least
favorite part about it.
“Stepping out onto the mat … and the
cinnamon roasted almonds were my favorite,”
VERNOIS NEWS photo/Lifetouch
Blake Strickland, „12, is announced the victor as a wrestling match in C Gym. Strickland has proven a strong asset
to the MV team, and a force with which to be reckoned to
MV opponents.
“Blake losing in the wrestling match that
would have put him in the medals was my
least favorite of the tournament,” added
Coach Tickner.
Wrestling upper classmen with years of
experience and success, Strickland looks upon
the experience for learning.
“I gained a lot of new experience that I
can use for years to come,” said Strickland.
A freshman advancing to state is a huge
accomplishment. Did the upper classmen react any different to Strickland?
“They were amazed and congratulating
me that I made it this far to the state tournament, and that I was the first from MV in 10
years, Strickland added.
“No one really cares. They‟re just there to
win,” commented Coach Tickner.
Not bringing home any hardware, was this
season a success for Blake?
“It could have been better. This season‟s
record was the worst I have ever had, but
overall was a success,” stated Strickland.
“Twenty-nine wins for a freshman on the
varsity is a great year. Blake has a great future,” added Coach Tickner.
Rennie proves inspirational
By Beloved Porter
VERNOIS NEWS
Coach Sara Rennie is an inspiration person to me. With the ability to
be a coach and a teacher, Coach Rennie is the all around incredible
person.
When playing basketball, players have to keep a lot of motivation, energy and they have to believe.
She has taught and coached at MV for 33 years and has become
more capable of helping people.
I wonder how Coach Rennie stays motivated every day, she does
so much and she never seems tired. Her motivation of course is basketball. I just don't know how she keeps going.
“I love basketball and I want every one to love it like it do,”
says Coach Rennie. She has no problem with keeping up with what
she does because she loves it.
“Basketball is the primary focus and you have to sacrifice,” explained Coach Rennie.
Everything is put on the line for basketball. She has been fully
dedicated, sacrificing her weekends, summers, and chill time to be
with the team.
She is in her last year at MV, and she knows there are things
about MV that she will miss.
“When I retire I‟ll miss basketball and the gym,” said Coach
Rennie.
Everyday people improve things about themselves. Coach Rennie is that kind of person who learns as she grows.
“Every year you get better at what you do. I‟m a better teacher
and coach, if you‟re an educator you never stop learning,” said
Coach Rennie.
Coach Rennie has to be a great leader for people to want to
follow her.
When playing basketball a leader has to be established and have
to lead the team the right way.
“You are the leader as the coach and teacher. A big chunk of
the leader is the upperclassman on the team. I stress that a lot with
my team,” Coach Rennie added.
Coach Rennie has coached since 1977.
“I came here first because they hired me. Then it became my
home for 33 years. I have friends and close family here,” said Coach
Rennie.
When coaches retire they often have several opinions about
them left behind. “When I retire I hope people I taught everyday
know I worked hard everyday and I love doing it,” Coach Rennie
added.
Some coaches that players work with have a hard side, and
don‟t bond with everyone on their team.
As a coach bonding is very important, it helps the team feel
more comfortable with them. If everyone is comfortable it sets the
mood to win some games.
Coach Rennie bonds with everyone on the team in a different
way. Everyone is different so we talk to her about different problems. We go in her office and talk to her about problems in school
and problems at home.
She is like a mom who makes sure you‟re not cold or hungry.
Along with that is responsibility of having to run her team, she has
an all around load and role.
“Age has many stages, in my younger days I was more fierier
and didn‟t care as much. As I matured, I realize I was dealing with
young girls. So I evolved into a more sensitive person that a young
girl needs,” said Coach Rennie.
Every coach has an inspirational quote that they give their team
to remember.
“You have to have confidence. Believe in yourself,” said Coach
Rennie.
VERNOIS SPORTS
Volume 87 - Issue 8
Capps Recap:
A View from the Bench
GO RAMS AND LADY RAMS!
March 2009
Creel takes baseball assistant job
Travis Carello, ‟09, is excited about the new
assistant coach in place because he believes
Coach Creel is very knowledgeable about baseball.
Coach Doug Creel has voluntarily taken the posiTom Fulkerson is another new assistant
tion of assistant baseball coach for the Mount
coach this year. “ Tom has coached; played DiviVernon baseball rams.
sion 1 level, drafted by the Cincinnati Reds, and
“After Coach Creel resigned from basketball I
along with Coach Creel will bring loyalty, enthuimmediately asked him if he would be interested
siasm and a hard working mentality. I go back
in helping with baseball. People forget he
with the both of them and I am very excited to
coached baseball at Mount Vernon for ten
have them on board, along with Coach McClure.”
years,” Coach Tim
Coach Creel and the
Holloway explained.
other coaches will each
This will be an
play their own role in the
exciting season and
program. The qualities
Coach Creel will be
each man brings will
able to bring time,
benefit our players and
effort energy and
they will be a part of any
hard work to help the
success we may have.
team.
The time period beCoach
Creel
tween when Coach Creel
played baseball as a
coached and now has litstudent at MV in the
tle differences they
1970‟s. He played
worked hard when he
shortstop and third
played had fun and
base.
helped out with coaches
Some of the playas much as possible.
ers think Coach Creel
Some differences do
will have a big imexist between now and
pact on the team.
then when he played.
Brian Sipe ‟10 stated.
Coach Creel stated, “we
“I believe it will be
played more often; so
keeping the team
many guys have other
attitude in check and
things going on.”
making sure day in
Everyone has their
and day out we have
best sports memories.
the fire to win.”
Coach Creel‟s best baseJim
Mulvaney,
VERNOIS NEWS photo/Kat Bullock
ball memories were
‟10, thinks Coach Coach Doug Creel had taken the position of assistant baseball
Bronco, Mustang years
Creel will bring ex- coach. Coach Creel retired as head basketball coach in 2008.
from summer baseball,
Coach Creel played baseball for the Rams in the 1970‟s.
perience and the
the enjoyment of the
ability to win to our
game, taking infield practice, and batting practeam.
tice. That probably also goes same for the high
Coach Holloway thinks similarly stating, “He
school memories: playing, practicing, and being
will bring enthusiasm, winning mentality, work
around the guys you liked to play with.
hard for our players and most importantly Coach
Creel, Coach McClure and I am on the some page
and also he will bring extreme loyalty”.
By Kit Grote
VERNOIS NEWS
Track Season Blues
By Joe Capps
SPORTS EDITOR
Year after year, ever since my
fifth grade year, my spring has
been centered around one thing,
track season.
I have always anticipated the
start of track season, but no matter how hard I try every year
something happens to me.
From sixth grade year until
now, I have pulled or strained
both of my calves, both my hamstrings, both of my quads, and my
left groin.
Needless to say, I have not
had very good luck.
If I had to guess I think I have
probably missed twenty track
meets.
That does not sound like a
lot, but each season on average
consists of only fifteen meets.
Although I continuously hurt
myself I always come back for
more abuse and pain.
The truth is I just love to run,
that is why I do it.
This year, I pulled my hamstring two days before the first
meet.
I was at practice, running a
150 for time.
I was about 60 meters in to
the race when it happened. It
was not sore or tight it just
pulled with out warning.
Now for the last three weeks
I have had to try to nurse it back
to health. I have already missed
two meets, but just like every
year before now I will bite and
scratch my way back to what I
like to do the most.
“Baseball is ninety percent mental and
the other half is physical.”- Yogi Berra
To inform, educate, enlighten, and entertain | A VERNOIS PUBLICATIONS GROUP PRODUCTION