2008_Vernois News - Mount Vernon Township High School

VERNOIS NEWS
Volume 86, Issue 8
SUPER-SUPREME SENIOR EDITION
April/May 2008
Class of ‘08 comes, goes
What day at MV will you never forget?
When G
building
caught on
fire.
The day of
the infamous doughnut riots.
Truvaunty
Badger „08
Tim Benoist
„08
I will remember
every day
I‟ve spent at
MV. It‟s
pretty unforgettable
here.
Alyssa Moore
„08
What are your plans for after high school?
I‟m going to
RLC to get
my
Associates,
and then I
transfer to U
of I for an
engineering
degree.
[I am] going
to U of I to
study Animal
Sciences and
become a
Veterinarian.
Lauren
Welker „08
I am going
to go to
college and
make the
best of life.
Wanda
Stuckey „08
Kyler
Lehmann„08
What will you miss most about MV?
I will miss
driving like
a maniac to
get to lunch
and back.
Sherrie
Jayne „08
The thing I
will miss
most will be
seeing my
friends everyday. Once
high school
is over, everyone goes
their separate ways.
Latasia
Black „08
To inform, educate, enlighten, and entertain | A VERNOIS PUBLICATIONS GROUP PRODUCTION
The thing I
will miss
most about
high school
is seeing my
classmates. I
might never
see some of
these people
again.
Katrina Dekker „08
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-
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
Mr. Terry Milt, Superintendent
Mr. Ron Daniels, Principal
Mrs. Tammy Beckham, Assistant Principal
Mr. Mark Goodheart, 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
VERNOIS NEWS Management
Leah Minor, Editor in Chief
Alicia Sheldon, Managing Editor
Lauren Duncan, News Editor
Gabe Cralley, Opinions Editor
Eric Lyday, Sports Editor
Alexis Nulsen, Arts and Entertainment Editor
Lexi Scrivner, Photography Editor
Josh Strothmann, Blue Print Editor
Katie Bunting, Staffer
Mrs. Karen Hamilton, Print Shop Director
Mr. Jamey VanZandt, Adviser
VERNOIS NEWS Staff
Writing for Publication 1. Period 2
Joanna Bayer, Dontrell Black, Mike Greenwalt, Josh
Hurst, Landon Ile, James Jackson, Holden Johnson, Teinisha Johnson, Natasha Kennedy, Siriwut “Bank” Limprasurtsak, Martha Manne, Ukierra Mays, Kayla Reeves,
Ross Rubenacker, David Spicuzza, Lindsay Willis, Brittany Wingfield, Lauren Zedalis
Writing for Publication 1. Period 3
Hope Bialik, Greg Brown, Brittany Brumley, Kat Bullock,
Shelby Campbell, Caleb Cross, Morgan Feltmeier, Justin
Haney, Amy Hawkins, Brittany Kryger, Leah Minor,
Logan Payne, Haley Smith, Joshua Williams
Milt named as Administrator of the Year
FFA and Stu-Co join forces for luncheon
By Brittany Wingfield
By Morgan Feltmeier
At MV, students aren‟t the only ones accomplishing goals and making a name for themselves.
Mr. Terry Milt, Superintendent, has been
named the Illinois School Guidance Counselor
Association‟s Administrator of the Year.
Milt received his award at the association‟s
annual conference on Friday, April 18.
Milt has served as superintendent of MV
since 2004.
He also served as superintendent of Fisher
Community Unit School District 1, Palmyra and
Fairfield, and was principal of Newtown Central School.
Milt recently told the Mt. Vernon Sentinel
that he‟s never had a nomination like this before.
Milt noted specific goals for MV.
“We need to continue to improve school
improvement on test scores, to continue to
seek avenues for students to learn, and to continue to provide a safe learning environment
for all students.”
The FFA finally pulled it off, with the help
from the student council.
On April 17 during Spring Fling week, the
FFA and student council worked together for
the staff luncheon.
“It was nice for our two teams to work
together,” thought Mr. Kabat, advisor of FFA.
“I think for a rainy day it went really well.
“I think everyone really enjoyed themselves,” stated Mr. Kabat, “I received over
thirty thank you cards from staff. Hopefully
we will get to do it again next year.”
On April 25 the FFA will have their 78th
end of the year banquet at 6:30 P.M. at the
Rolland Lewis building in Veterans Park.
If any student would like to attend,
whether they are in FFA or not, they can contact Mr. Kabat or Mr. Hall.
“Last year we had somewhere around 286
students, but we always prepare for 400,”
explained Mr. Kabat, “We are really wanting
more students to come.”
The banquet will recognize the FFA seniors, as well as the award and record book
winners from this past year.
Vernois News congratulates Mr.
Milt on this honor.
Kabat explains Co-Op
for seniors
Hamilton carries on legacy of
Print Shop
By Linsday Willis
By Justin Haney
Co-Op is an opportunity for senior students to attend school
half of the day ad then
go out to work.
“Your
schedule
consists of a first, second, and third block
class. Fourth hour is
the Co-Op class, and
then your afternoon
will be job training in
the community or the
school,” stated Mr.
John Kabat, Career
Tech Education, and
Co-Op teacher.
Anyone with seventeen credits and
three good teacher
recommendations by
the end of their junior
year is eligible to join
the program.
exactly
about.
what
we‟re
talking
A two
year
old
Running a print shop
Xerox mamay seem like an easy
chine has
job for nine months a
four milyear, until you learn
lion copies
that it is a year round
on it, to
job done mainly by one
date.
dedicated woman.
O n e
Mrs. Karen Hamilton
may wonhas been running the
der, if a
print shop here at MV
two year
for 18 years.
old
maMost people wouldchine has
n‟t be able to deal with
that many
the literally truck loads
copies,
of paper every year.
how man
Although there have
copies has
VERNOIS NEWS photo/ Leah Minor
been many upgrades
Mrs. Hamover the years, one ma- Mrs. Karen Hamilton of the Print Shop,
i l t o n
sits at her computer working diligently.
chine remains the cen- Hamilton has worked in the MV print shop made?
ter of it all.
for 18 years.
O n e
A shearing machine
thing
is
that was patented in 1892 still is
certain, however many copies
the main paper cutter in the
she has made, Mrs. Hamilton is
print shop, and if you‟re in Mr.
the heart and soul of the truly
Bob Tomlin‟s, class you know
complex print shop here at MV.
Order your 2008 Vernois Yearbook now!
Order online at www.smart-pay.com
OR
Pick up an order form in 122 H and mail it with your check
VERNOIS NEWS
News
News, Page 3
5.2 earthquake rattles Southern Illinois
By Alicia Sheldon
MANAGING EDITOR
Imagine waking up in the middle of the night,
only to be faced with the walls trembling,
the floor shaking, and a deafening roar outside. For most of southern Illinois, this situation became reality on April 18. Around 4:37
AM, the 5.2 magnitude earthquake shook up
much of the surrounding area, even reaching
to points such as Ontario and Cincinnati.
Normally, earthquakes in southern Illinois
originate from the New Madrid fault, but this
one came from the Wabash County seismic
zone, in the Mount Carmel area. After the big
earthquake, nearly thirty aftershocks followed, one of which caused minor chaos in
third hour classes April 18. That particular
earthquake reached a 4.6 magnitude. One of
the larger, more recent aftershocks occurred
April 21 around 12:30 AM.
All throughout the day of the earthquake, talk of the disturbance could be
heard throughout the halls of MV. Questions
of “did it wake you up?” and “where were
you when it happened?” were common inquisitions of the student body.
“I was sound asleep in my bed, and I
woke up right as it was beginning. I thought,
„whoa, what‟s going on?‟ At first I thought it
The events caused for heightened awareness concerning the imminent severe earthquakes for the Midwest predicted by seismologists. MV students have become more
aware of the possibility since the recent
earthquakes.
“It definitely makes the possibility of a
severe quake seem more realistic now that
these others have happened,” said Scott.
Other students are less concerned about
these earthquakes.
“There is a possibility of a severe earthquake, but I‟m not worried about it,” said
Rebecca Austin, ‟11.
There are many things one can do to prevent damage in the event of a larger earthquake. The first step is to do a home assessment. Make sure shelves and wall hangings
are properly secured, and anything breakable
VERNOIS NEWS photo/ berrystreetbeacon.wordpress.com should be kept inside a closed cabinet. The
American Red Cross also advises families to
The chart above shows the seismic hazard zones for
southern Illinois and surrounding regions. Though the
keep an earthquake emergency kit in their
recent earthquake was caused by a seismic area in Wahomes and cars, including a first-aid kit and
bash County, The Madrid Fault is predicted to produce an
essential medications, canned food and a can
earthquake of 6.0 or greater by 2040.
opener, at least 3 gallons of water per perwas a tornado, but then I figured out it was son, protective clothing, rainwear and bedan earthquake,” said Ryan Scott, ‟11.
ding or sleeping bags; a battery-powered
“I was in my house sleeping when the radio, and flashlight and extra batteries.
earthquake occurred, but it didn‟t wake me
For more information on earthquake
up,” Alexus Burke, ‟11, stated.
safety, log on to www.redcross.org.
Teachers attend technology workshop
By Hope Bialik
VERNOIS NEWS
MV had the opportunity to learn more about technology in a recent
afternoon in-service activity.
Selections included power point, organizing emails, using the
smart boards, and using united Streaming. The double sessions were
about making a teacher web page and classroom Performances Systems.
Teachers could attend different sessions throughout the afternoon.
“Creating a webpage is what I attended, and I learned to put
together a teacher webpage which is already up and running,” remarked Mrs. Patty Flick, PASS class teacher.
“I went to the web design and learned how to set it up,” replied
Mrs. Cari Simpson, AVC Health teacher.
Some teachers thought it improved their technology knowledge.
“It helped me, because I had no idea how to make a webpage,”
explained Mrs. Simpson.
“It gave me the chance to use things that we might not otherwise
think of,” added Ms. Julie Holmes, CTE-foods and nutrition.
Teachers suggested what topics they would like to attend for
the next sessions.
“I would recommend the teacher webpage again because I didn‟t
get to attend it,” commented Ms. Holmes.
“I would suggest more sessions for creating more web pages,”
noted Mrs. Flick.
If more sessions were to be offered again, would teachers want
to go to them?
“There are a few I would have like to attend that I didn‟t get to
go to,” explained Mrs. Simpson.
“I would definitely like to attend a different session,” said Mrs.
Flick.
Mr. Rob Knutson, assistant principal-CTE, had different reason for
holding the session to improve teachers‟ knowledge on technology.
“This is something we tried last year. By chance, one of our
presenters for a half day in-service last year had to cancel. Out of
necessity, Mr. Milt allowed me to try out an idea. The idea of having
sessions were so well received last year, we decided to try it again
this school year,” stated Mr. Knutson.
Mr. Knutson received different feedback from the teachers from
the in-service half day. “So far this has been very positive,” remarked Mr. Knutson.
Some of the positive comments included teachers being able to
get a lot of information in a short period of time, an opportunity to
work in labs first hand, and instruction/sessions closely tied to their
immediate needs.
Different MV staff presented sessions based on their experience
and knowledge of the session material covered. According to the CTE
office, Mrs. Brittany Boldt presented PowerPoint, Mr. Mike Abell did
organizing files, a presenter from CIM did the smart board, Mr. Sean
Docherty instructed United Streaming, a presenter from CIM presented the classroom performance systems, and Mr. Knutson taught
teachers how to make a webpage.
Page 4, News
VERNOIS NEWS
Spring Fling ends successfully
By Brittany Wingfield
VERNOIS NEWS
You‟re standing in the gym, and you look around to see hundreds of
students jumping and screaming all around. First there‟s the faint
sound of greenies trying to make their voice heard, only to be booed
by the upper-classmen, Then your head the sophomores, followed by
the juniors, trying their best, but knowing they probably won‟t come
close to the senior class. When it comes to the class of „08, they
proudly proclaim their seniority. They watch the teacher‟s debate
over who was the loudest, and surprisingly toss the spirit stick to the
sophomores.
That would be the results of the SpringFling kick off assembly
held on Monday, April 7th. “It was so not fair!” exclaimed Ranzie
Kendrick, „08. “Seniors always win; it‟s like an unwritten rule.”
All though many seniors share the same outlook, the senior class
lost the beloved spirit stick
last assembly to the junior
class.
“To me, I think the
sophomores won fair and
square, just like the juniors
did last time,” stated Angie
Yourokous, „09.
“However, the staff may
have been taking it a little
easy on the little sophoVERNOIS NEWS photo/ Coyn Mateer mores,” she added.
Onlookers gaze in amusement during the Battle of
Kohl Dothage, „08, rethe Bands. The evening of music was held in the
plied, “Most sophomores
Schweinfurth Auditorium.
have bigger mouths then
the rest of us, so that‟s why they won.”
That night the SpringFling coffeehouse was held in 119H. Students brought their instruments, poems, writings, stories, and shared
them with the collection of approximately 25 students.
“I really didn‟t know what to expect since it was my first time
going, but it was actually a lot of fun,” Shawn Toliver, „09, stated.
Fazolis and Long John Silvers helped sponsor the MV coffeehouse
by donating breadsticks and hushpuppies.
“The food‟s definitely a plus,” added Toliver.
“I‟ve never been to a coffee house, but it‟s definitely on my list.
I‟m sure they‟re amazing,” stated Tiffany Pitman, „09.
On Tuesday the dodge ball tournament took place at lunch.
Teams gathered to show off their skills.
“It was a lot of fun, [but] some teams definitely got cheated
though,” Natasha Kennedy, „08, said.
That night the SpringFling Hop sponsored by the FBLA took place
in C gym.
“The music was all
right, but it wasn‟t as fun
as I hoped, because a lot
of people didn‟t show,”
Pitman confirmed. “I
know some people didn‟t
show because the lights
were left on, they‟re just
not as fun as they were in
previous years.”
The following day Battle of the Bands was held
in the auditorium.
VERNOIS NEWS photo/Coyn Mateer
“It was extremely
Tyler Knox provides the beat for his band, Puzzle. The
band consisted of Josh Strothmann, „Magic Mike‟, and good this year. It‟s the
Knox.
one event I look forward to every
year, like always. Josh Strothmann‟s band (Puzzle) and the Burge
brothers put on an awesome show,”
Dothage stated.
The other performances were
Lucas Wells/Andrew Seagraves and
“Angel Under Fire”.
“We have a lot of talent at our
school, I was really impressed. I
just think they should have given a
prize or something,” Kelly Lisenby,
„10, stated.
Unfortunately, due to weather,
the outdoor extravaganza scheduled for Thursday after school was
cancelled.
“I was very disappointed because everybody kept telling me it
VERNOIS NEWS photo/Kat Bullock
was a lot of fun, so I was kind of
chant at the spring assembly in
mad. But as long as they reschedule Juniors
hopes of winning the spirit stick. Even
I‟m fine,” stated Amanda Cham- though the sophomore class won, the
bliss, „11.
juniors were close competition.
“It‟s not cool. It‟s my senior
year and it they don‟t reschedule, I won‟t ever get to go to another
SpringFling,” exclaimed Kendrick.
Among all these activities, each day also had a specific theme.
On Monday, it was college t-shirt day. On Tuesday, students wore
their favorite pro sports jerseys. Wednesday was pajama day, and
staff and students could be seen all across campus sporting fuzzy
slippers and matching attire. On Thursday, it was class color day, a
long standing tradition at MV. Freshmen wore green, sophomores
wore red, juniors yellow and seniors blue. Faculty and staff wore
orange and black. Many students at MV did more than just wear their
class colors; they decorated the shirts as well.
“My friends and I had a blast doing ours. Mine said „Catch the
Fever‟ and on the back it said „senorita‟. It was a lot of fun to see
the same style shirt come out five different ways,” stated Kendrick.
Upperclassmen weren‟t the only ones proudly displaying their
color.
“My shirt was bright green and said „I put the fresh in freshmen‟,”
proudly stated Amanda Chambliss, „11. “Everybody told me not to
wear green because I would get water balloons thrown at me, but I
don‟t care. Big whoop you get wet, I mean it was raining anyway!”
she added.
Pitman agreed, “I‟m not a freshman, but I think it‟s really awesome for them to display their color, not only is green amazing, but
they‟re proud to be
freshmen, and that‟s
cool.”
On Friday SpringFling
t-shirts were passed out
to all who signed up,
concluding SpringFling
week. All in all, Spring
Fling was event packed
and had a fairly large
turn out to the activities.
“It was great and it
VERNOIS NEWS photo/Coyn Mateer
should definitely be kept The „Redneck Crew‟ struts across the court during the
Dodge Ball competition. Though the „The Mixed Boys‟
going,” Lisenby ended.
came out on top, the „Redneck Crew‟ took the runnerup position.
VERNOIS NEWS
Obama-Clinton battle
rages
By Emily Opalecky
VERNOIS NEWS
The ongoing battle between Barack Obama and Hillary Clinton for
the 2008 Democratic presidential nominations has left numerous
MV students aggravated, annoyed, and very confused about either
candidate facing off against the G.O.P. nominee Senator John
McCain.
Matter of fact, many MV students don‟t like either one of the
candidates.
Rachel Lee, „09, said, “I don‟t agree with either of them.
McCain is the only one that hasn‟t gotten himself in trouble by
saying or doing something stupid in public.”
“Obama is too inexperienced. Clinton is too robotic. Ron Paul,
„08!” added Josh Reeves, „09.
Out of the ten students who voiced their opinion on the subject, not one of them were supporters of Hillary Clinton, while
Obama had four.
Joe Sweeney, „09, commented, “He is an agent of change and
a needed difference maker to overturn the current administration‟s policies.”
“Obama has a believable plan for the economy. Those making
under $75,000 will get a tax cut. Clinton‟s plan to reestablish the
tax percentage, the $250,000= class paid in the 1990‟s is unrealistic and won‟t happen,” said Emily Estes, „08.
Haley Smith, 08, admitted even though she doesn‟t keep up
with the election she is decided when it comes to voting on November, “I am not supportive of Clinton and especially not Obama,
so my choice is most definitely McCain,” she said.
News, Page 5
Gas prices continue to rise
By Shelby Campbell
VERNOIS NEWS
Many Americans all over the country are experiencing high gas prices.
As of April 21, the average national price per gallon was $3.18.
What is the next step? When will it stop? What are the alternatives?
MV students and teachers are expressing frustration towards high
gas prices.
“It‟s way too high! For graduation, I just got an SUV. Gas had better go down, or I‟m walking,” exclaimed Lauren Zedalis, „08.
What have the high prices affected?
“People are money-hungry, they need to think about others, not
just themselves,” stated Tosha Ellis, „08.
What you drive depends a lot on how much gas you use. Mallory
Johnston, „08, said “I drive a „01 Chevy Blazer and it is a gas hog.”
Paying for gas may leave some students broke.
“It costs 45-60 dollars to fill up my tank,” added Johnston.
Eric Lyday, „08, stated, “It costs me 60 dollars to fill up my SUV.
It‟s terrible.”
Even though the average price is $3.18, it always seems to run
higher than that in Southern Illinois. With the new Hybrid cars out,
people who are looking for alternatives may be considering buying a
new car.
“I wouldn‟t. The car payment would cost more than the gas savings,” said Mr. Sean Docherty, History.
“If gas continues to rise, I will probably buy a ten speed!” exclaimed Kayla Reeves, „08.
“I will ride my bike,” commented Mrs. Debbie Nelson, Social Studies.
Rain washes out spirits
want to be soaking wet all day.
“On rainy days I try to wear windbreakers because they‟re water proof,”
“Rain, rain, go away, come again anstated Mike Greenwalt, „08. Windbreakother day.”
ers, umbrellas, rain boots or all of that
In recent weeks, Jefferson County
at once, MV students need a little extra
has encountered an abundance of rain.
something to keep them dry all day.
How has it affect the MV community
Unfortunately, some students don‟t
and what are people doing to prepare?
bring
anything for rainy days.
“The rain has caused a tree to fall
“I
don‟t keep an umbrella in my car,
on my neighbor‟s house and went
but with this year‟s rain season, I probathrough the roof,” explained Chris Bradbly should invest in one,” said Kyler Lehford, „08.
mann, „08.
It‟s not just rain we‟re having; damAccording to www.weather.com, the
aging rain and winds have damaged Jeflargest
amount of rain was dumped on
VERNOIS NEWS photo/ wunderground.com
ferson County, Marion County, and all
The photo above, taken on March 19th, 2008, shows the city of Harris- Anna with 15.51 inches of rain and Fairaround us.
field with 9.47 inches. Southeastern Illisubmerged in flood waters. Students may need an umbrella and
“I‟ve hade to clean out several of my burg
rain boots to trudge across campus, but at least we have not resorted
nois experienced its fourth wettest March
relatives‟ basements because of flood- to canoeing across the quad.
on record with 10.47 inches.
ing,” complained Daniel Chambliss, „09.
And it‟s not over yet. For MV stuRain has affected people in such a way that they have to
dents,
make
sure
and
be
prepared
for rainy days from now on. The
change plans and take in consideration that their basements or
rain
is
forecasted
for
the
remainder
of spring.
house might flood. It has not only affected peoples living area, but
“I
don‟t
have
rain
boots,
but
I
will
be buying some in the near
has also affect peoples‟ mood.
future due to all this rain, it‟s getting crazy muddy,” said Joanna
“It depressed my day when having to travel from class to class,”
Bayer „08.
declared Justin Keele, ‟08.
By Amy Hawkins
VERNOIS NEWS
MV students have to really prepare for rainy days unless they
Page 6, Feature
Feature
VERNOIS NEWS
Year-end nears, summer jobs approach
By James Jackson
VERNOIS NEWS
Summer is inching even closer, and with gas prices rising and cell
phone bills to pay, MV students need a way to make these payments. The answer to their problem is summer jobs.
Traditionally, summer jobs are a way for students to make
money during the summer so that they are able to afford the expensive cost of being a teenager today.
Summer jobs have been an important part of high school student‟s lives, and are usually a positive experience that helps prepare students for the real world.
Some typical jobs include working at restaurants, mowing lawns,
life guarding, babysitting, and according to Bank, „08, selling shoes
in Thailand.
Ms. Sarah Smith, Social Worker, said her favorite summer job
was babysitting young Ryan Quick, who is now a junior at MV.
Delbert Kramer, „08, exclaimed, “Applebee‟s is a good place to
work.”
Around Mount Vernon there are a variety of jobs that are available where students can work.
“Working at Green Hills is the best job I have ever had,” stated
Bryce Kujawa, „09, who was quick to add, “It is the only job I‟ve
ever had, though.”
However, not all summer jobs are positive experiences. Mrs.
Christine Renth, Social Worker, described the worst job she had as a
newspaper stuffer where she spent “hours on end putting advertisements and things into newspapers.”
For those students having a hard time finding a job, there are
several websites available that can be used to find a job, such as
www.snagajob.com, where there is a section specifically for high
school students.
“Beach Body” season arrives
arms are fully extended with a light bend in the
elbows and then return to starting position.
A more popular exercise, the lunge, is the
Bikinis, swim trunks, sunglasses, sun tan oil,
fourth
tip. Stand straight with your feet together.
beaches. Do any of these items mean anything to
Hold a dumbbell or cans in each hand with your
you?
arms down at your sides, step forward with the
If so, it‟s time to shape up those bodies for the
right leg and lower the left leg until the knee albeach!
most touches the floor. Push off your right foot
Does Mt. Vernon High School plan on dieting for
slowly returning to the starting positions. Alterthe summer?
nate this motion with the left leg to complete the
“Yes. I‟m excited because I just hired a perset.
sonal trainer!” exclaimed Mrs. Laura Coston, Art
Finally, the last step to that attractive beach
Department.
body is the dumbbell reverse lat row. To perform
“I try and eat healthy year-round, but it‟s
this, sit on a bench with your feet close together.
tough,” Aimee McGovern, „09, said.
Hold a dumbbell in each hand with your arms
“I‟m not really dieting, but just trying to get in
hanging down at at your sides and palms facing
VERNOIS NEWS photo/ hikingideas.com
shape,” Alecia Zinke, „09, explained. “My typical
one another. Bend your upper body so it is parallel
The
above
photo
demonstrates
the
workout consists of running on the treadmill and
widely-used lunge. The exercise is used
with the floor. Draw both arms toward your body
doing the circuit. I also cheer which helps out too.” to strengthen the quadriceps, glutes,
and turn your wrists so that your palms are facing
According to an article on www.ebay.com, “5 hamstrings, and biceps.
the ceiling. Keep your elbow tight against the
great ways to get that Beach Body”, there really
body
and
stop
when
your arms are at chest level, return to starting
are five great ways to get that bod. First, it says that power walkposition.
ing is a great way to burn those calories.
Mrs. Crystal Nowak, Art, has her own way of burning off the
“Warm-up for 5 minutes and the power walk for 15 minutes.
winter
weight.
Power walking is a mix between walking and running. The tech“Decrease
the portions, increase the movement. Less food,
nique is more like walking, but the idea is to get the speed closer
more exercise,” stated Nowak.
to running. Generally, a good speed is between 3.5 mph to 4.0
Mrs. Coston lets us in on her secret to winter weight loss, “Only
mph,” stated eBay.com.
eat when you‟re hungry. Everything in moderation!” she explained.
Ebay‟s second tip is to do barbell rear squats. For those who
Ross Rubenacker also has his own workout, “My workout conaren‟t sure on what this is, you start by placing a barbell or broomsists
of biceps, triceps, chest and lot and lots of ab workouts. My
stick across the back of your shoulders, but make sure it‟s not restmain focus is the 6-pack before beach season,” stated Rubenacker.
ing on your neck. Place feet flat on the floor, shoulder distance
“Ross and I work out together, so my workout is basically the
apart, and start by lowering your body by bending from your hips
same
as his. The results are starting to show,” Joel Harrison, „09,
and knees stopping when your thighs are parallel with the floor and
stated.
return back to you starting position.
Whether you‟re working out of just cutting back, the beach bod
The dumbbell incline chest press is the next step.
is important to some, but not so much to others.
To do this, lie on your back on an incline bench with your spine
“Beach bodies are definitely nice, but that‟s not all that matin a neutral position. Hold a dumbbell in each hand at chest level
ters.
People just need to learn to have fun, no matter what their
with your elbows at a 90-degree angle facing outward and palms
body
type,”
Zinke, „09, explained.
facing forward. Press both arms upward above the chest until the
By Haley Smith
VERNOIS NEWS
VERNOIS NEWS
Feature, Page 7
Art class holds unique fashion show
By Alicia Sheldon
MANAGING EDITOR
High fashion styles and models aren‟t just for
celebrity runways. In fact, they can be found
right here in our own hallways.
In the recent fashion show held by the 3dimensional design art class, many original and
unique designs were displayed by students who
created them during class time. The pieces of
art were crafted completely from recyclable
materials, to follow the “green” trend.
Mrs. Hannah Rodgers, art, came up with
the idea of the project over the summer.
“I really like shows like Project Runway
and America‟s Next Top Model, and I really
wanted to do a project with recyclables. I
came up with the runway idea, and took it
from there,” Rodgers said.
The students were given three weeks to
complete their fashions. They used the time to
gather materials, research the theme, and
work on the actual piece.
After all preparations were complete, the
fashion show was held Thursday, April 24, during 5th block classes. Several MV classes turned
out at the event, filing into the auditorium in
anticipation. Models and groups hurried
around, making final touches to their outfits
with just minutes to spare. The lights dimmed,
the music began, and MC‟s Josh Strothmann,
‟08, and Courtney Lawrence, ‟10, began to
announce the models and their outfits.
VERNOIS NEWS photo/ Holden Johnson
Ansley Murphy, „08, strikes a final pose during the walk-off
in the fashion show. Murphy‟s dress was crafted from
black and white trash bags, and was a popular choice
among students in the audience.
When all 14 pieces had been shown, the
models did a final walk to give students and
judges one last look to determine which
awards would be given to which groups. The
judges deliberated over awards such as Ingenious Materials, Extreme Theme, MVN‟s
Next Top Model, and Best in Show, while the
student audience voted for their Student
Choice.
“I was pretty much excited. It was nice
to win,” stated Dontrell Black, ‟08, after
being declared Student Choice winner. Dontrell was also awarded the MV‟s Next Top
Model prize. His outfit was 70‟s themed,
with a bit of a Jackson 5 flair. The winning
group consisted of Nissa Nave, Armand
Redman, Katy King, and Black.
Another group that enjoyed success
chose another „era‟ theme.
“I really like the whole 1920‟s flapper
thing, so we just ran with it and made it
flashier,” explained Kayleigh McCowen, ‟09.
McCowen modeled her team‟s piece, which
won Best in Show.
After all the hard work put into this project, it turned out to be a great success and
was enjoyed by the student body. The project was not only fun, but the class did
something to benefit the earth.
“I had a lot of help. I couldn‟t have done
it without the others,” concluded Mrs. Rodgers.
Seniors reveal college plans
By Lauren Zedalis
VERNOIS NEWS
The last quarter of senior year has finally arrived. The class of 2008
is moving on to bigger and better things. What are some of MV senior‟s plans? Their best memories? The dwindling questions of what
college to choose and what major?
As high school comes to a close, many students are reminiscing
on years part. Mallor Johnston, „08, reflects on her sports teams
through the years and decided those were what made up ber best
memories.
Others are just events around school.
“My freshmen year getting water balloons thrown at me, then
catching one and throwing it back into Logan Lenker‟s car! That was
the best,” exclaimed Kathleen Sipe, „08.
With such great memories around here, some realized they will
actually miss high school. Maybe not the school, but Sipe concluded
she would definitely miss her friends the most.
Shelby Campbell, „08, stated, “My friends and I will definitely
stay in touch. We are all going our separate ways but I‟m sure we
will remain close.”
“We will stay in touch fa sho‟,” responded Matt Kramer, „08.
As summer draws close, all seniors are realizing we have a lot of
time out, big plans are being made around MV.
“Some seniors want to plan to go to the beach every day and
hang out with everyone before we all go our separate ways. We also
have something else planned,” answered Amy Hawkins, „08.
Britini Irwin, „08, has plans to attend Bonnaroo, and Lollapalooza
concert venues, and go to Virginia Beach and Cancun. Also to just
hang out with everyone before she leaves for college. She stated
she would also like the complete the list.
The choice of where to go to college is often a tough one. Emily
Estes „08, stated she will attend Eastern Illinois.
“I‟m going to Kaskaskia College for soccer and basketball,”
added Johnston.
Sipe will head to DePauw in Indiana in the fall.
“I‟m going to U of I… The „University of Ina„,” added Kramer.
The choices for college are being made and expectations are
high.
“I can‟t wait to hang out and go to class with Ross Rubenacker,”
declared Kramer. David “Pancho” Piercy agreed with this statement. All three of them are heading to Rend Lake together.
The „08 seniors have had a great run and Estes leaves the rest of
the student body with a piece of advise.
“Stop caring about what other people think of you. If you want
to skip and dance around school, you should! Do what makes you
happy,” Estes added.
Page 8, Feature
VERNOIS NEWS
Mateer looks back, sums up year in a nutshell
By Coyn Mateer
VERNOIS NEWS
This year at MV has been a year of controversy, milestones, breakups, and hook ups,
and enough drama for anyone who is a fan
to enjoy. What is it about the 2007-2008
school year that students will always remember? Let‟s think back and recap.
At the beginning of the year there were
riots.
“The riot was crazy, I was at lunch then
out of nowhere, I see people and police all
over the place, no one knew what was going
on,” commented Jacob Lemons, „08.
“I will always remember the riot because
kids came running from all over, it was
crazy,” quipped Matt Kramer, „08.
“Why can‟t we all just get along!” stated
Ciara Harvey, „09.
After the riots, the administration decided to eliminate any extra time students
may have by taking away ten minutes off of
lunch.
“Taking the 10 minutes off due to the
end of lunch fights is ridiculous, there will
always be an end of lunch and now kids
have to rush back from lunch so they won‟t
be late,” commented Emily Opalecky, „08.
“I thought taking off the ten minutes
was unfair and insane. Students are rushing
back to school causing accidents and more
tardies for teachers to deal with. This is in
no way helping the student environment,”
stated Martha Manne, 08.
“The fact that they shortened lunch time
from 55 minutes to 45 stands out the most
to me about this year,” remarked Josh
Sears, „09.
However, the men‟s basketball team
picked the year up having an awesome season.
“The basketball team getting to the
Super Sectional after nobody though they
would go anywhere after the 0-4 start they
had is what sticks out in my mind,” remarked Mark Schmitt, „11.
That was the first time out Rams have
made it to the Super Sectional since the
“Kent Williams” era, but it was not the only
sporting event people thought back to.
“I will always remember soccer season
and the formation of the SPARTANS! It
won‟t be the same without Skywalker and
Solo,” remarked Micah Duncan, „09.
The boys soccer team had its first winning season since the start of the program,
and junior Ryan Quick would also go on to
break the school goal scoring record.
Many other events such as operetta went
very will this year.
“Being the lead in the Operetta, getting
to show I have the skill and ability to be the
lead, the feeling of the first night and the
last night, gaining friends I might have
never known, I wouldn‟t change a thing for
any reason,” commented Levi Overturf,”
08.
“There were so many new hookups this
year,” sarcastically stated Alyssa Moffit,
„09.
“My most memorable experience from
the 2007-2008 school year was 4th hour
physics class Tomlin‟s weather dance, the
scary part was it ALWAYS worked!” stated
Travis Bond, „08.
Since the weather dance was mentioned,
it was investigated how to do so, and we
have come up with 3 steps, after hard study
of Mr. Bob Tomlin.
1.) Raise hands and point up with index
finger.
2.) Bounce on the feet
3.) Lift legs alternately while shaking
them while they are in mid flight.
As far as new slang words of the year,
we have heard many, I thought I would further investigate. Some common words and
their meanings are below that you may or
may not have heard around campus.
New Slang Words of the Year:
Bagevas- oh no!
Go in- bout ta fight
Duggie- you look supa fly fo the ladies
When students were asked about the
year as a whole, almost all had positive
comments.
“This year came at me like a punch in
the face. There was never a dull moment
and I hope my senior year tops it, but it
would be a hard thing to do. I had a lotta
laughs, too much school spirit, and a couple
bouts of public speaking. Overall, it was a
sweet action year!” stated Jeanette Odle,
‟09.
“This was a great school year-period.
We had everything from a riot to an amazing basketball season. It has definitely been
a year to remember. You can‟t pick one
thing out of the year and I‟m gonna miss it!”
recalled Alyssa Moore, ‟08.
“The 2008-2009 school year was the
year of the idiots!” remarked Kyle Lamichhane, „09.
I would like to wish everyone an awesome
last few days of the school year and an even
greater summer. And always remember the
words of the great James Dean.
“Dream as if you‟ll live forever, live as
if you‟ll die today.”
Popcorn Pete fundraiser produces record-breaking results
By Leah Minor
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
Veggitales, Doodlebops, and Hannah Montana!
All these and more debuted in the MV
auditorium during the 44th annual Popcorn
Pete Show.
The Popcorn Pete show is a fundraiser
produced by the Junior Women‟s Club.
It is a theater event that features a plethora of short, kid friendly skits such as Wizard
of Oz, Ratatouille, and Spiderman.
Amy Newell, a professional photographer
who has been in the Junior Women‟s Club for
nine years, has portrayed Popcorn Pete in the
show for the past six years.
“Hannah Montana [was the most popular
skit this year],” stated Newell, “Hands
down!”
“Each skit spends a considerable amount
of time preparing and you then spend a lot of
time rehearsing with the whole cast,” explained Ms. Tiffany Blasa, Director of Physical
Therapy at Salem Township Hospital, and
third year member of the Junior Women‟s
Club.
Many high school students participated as
well, through acting, stage crew positions,
spotlights, and technical crew.
Last year the MV Thespian Society/ Drama
Club performed an X-Men skit.
However, this year all the skits were primarily performed by members of the Junior
Women.
Blasa and Newell both agree that the
Popcorn Pete Show is the most economically
productive of all the fundraiser the club
sponsors. This year the show outdid itself by
blowing past its old record revenue of
$7,000, by attracting an income of over
$9,000.
Funds raised by the club are collected
throughout the year and then given back to
the community.
“The Junior Women‟s Club awards at least
one full year Rend Lake College Scholarship
each year to a Jefferson County student. We
also give scholarships to Jefferson County
students to attend various camps ranging
from athletes to special interest, such as FFA
and theater. The Junior Women‟s Club also
gives money to various Jefferson County community service organizations such as American Red Cross, Amy Center, Jefferson County
Sports Association, and others that send in
applications,” explained Clodi.
VERNOIS NEWS
Opinions
MV prom still lacks prom king
strongly about it, they didn‟t want to
be the one to question it).
My question to everyone is why
In 2003, there were many prom
not start a new tradition? Not everymeetings, but at one in particular,
thing always has to be the same;
they would decide to have a king for
things change and that‟s life. Just
the first year ever at prom. The
because there is a long history and
homecoming dance had a king, the
“tradition” in the buildings in this
sweetheart dance had a king, why
school
doesn‟t
not prom? It went well,
mean we shouldn‟t
crowning the great Seth
get a new school
Bumpus to the throne.
and stay into the
They would follow this
buildings until they
for two more years uncrumble. Why not
til my class (now senmake change hapiors) were in charge of
pen?
prom.
I
love
this
At
these
prom
school and also like
meetings (which I attradition. I liked
tended many) you talk
Chaos Corner, but
about many things and
it had to change
decide everything from
and move to the
what the theme is to
stage. It was for
how to decorate where
the better.
Alto have it. We made
though it‟s not that
many bad decisions in
VERNOIS NEWS photo/http:// big of a deal, I
these meetings which I www.colinburns.com/di/www.royal.gov.uk/
think MV‟s prom
don‟t know if they were
faq/images/crown.jpg
should have a king.
This
crown
represents
the
kinghood
that
has
expressed well enough
If you are on stubeen denied from MV‟s junior boys. Its
to the juniors for them glimmer and shine always lured glorydent council or
to be able to think coveting young men.
even just a student
about it, but one of the
who will be a junior next year, I urge
biggest mistakes we made was the
you to explain that this is the studecision not to have a prom king.
dents‟ prom, and the people in
The reason for not having a prom
charge do a great job. But someking (which may be understandable
times change is good.
to some), “we want to get back to
I hope I get a call telling me who
tradition,” we were told. After the
the prom king is next year at colspeech no one spoke up, (perhaps
lege.
for the fear that the advisors felt so
By Coyn Mateer
Opinions, Page 9
Brumley calls for day off from
work
VERNOIS NEWS
By Brittany Brumley
VERNOIS NEWS
Many people are so wrapped up in everyday routines that
they forget to know what‟s going on in the world they live in.
We are busy getting up every morning and getting ready,
trying to look good for school or the place we work. Then we
get to work and most people are busy on the days work tasks
that we don‟t have time to read the newspaper or watch the
news. Or in the students‟ case, they are busy listening to
teachers teach things that usually go in one ear and out the
other.
After school, some kids go home but, a majority of us
have jobs to go to.
Again, we are occupied with things that need to get
done. Then we get off work and we are tired and dirty. All
we want to do is go home and take a shower and then get
into bed. Even though we have homework or we want to
watch TV. Which probably wouldn‟t be the news anyway.
Then we get up and do the same thing the next day.
I think it is important to know what‟s going on in our
world today.
But I understand that it‟s very easy to get wrapped up in
our own little world that we live in every day. I think it
would be a lot easier to know what was going on in the world
if we all had a little more time for ourselves. If you go to
school and then just go home every day, I would hope that
you would know more than a person who is constantly working after school to support themselves and sometimes even
their child.
I have a lot of respect for people who go to school and to
work and still get good grades and have money in the bank to
show for their hard work. But hard working people are at a
disadvantage. We don‟t have enough time for ourselves. I
know we all like that money in our pocket. Sometimes,
though, it might be a little better for us if we take an extra
day off once in a while to do something for ourselves or to
watch the news and know what‟s happening in our country.
Cralley calls for more work, less apathy
By Gabe Cralley
OPINIONS EDITOR
This is a bit heavy for an endof-the-year opinion, but I want
to write about it anyway.
I am so tired of intelligent
people throwing their life away
because of tardies and incomplete homework.
Honestly, I‟ve seen people
who are so intelligent, who
could go to any college they
desired, let it all slip away for the dumbest
reasons.
Why do they do it?
Apathy? Maybe. Tie it in with a little
procrastination, and you‟ve got a perfect
recipe for one wasted life.
What pains me so much more is that
these students have so much potential to go
so far and they‟re just letting it die.
We as students need to be reaching as
high and as far as we can because we‟ve been
given the resources to change the world.
For some of these students, they absolutely have to do everything in their power if
they want to get away from certain situations
or just to the right college. You can be the
most intelligent person, but if you‟re missing
class and not turning in homework, you won‟t
get accepted into your choice college.
I hate it that people are throwing away
such a great opportunity that they‟ve been
given because it‟s one of the most important
things in life.
I sound like I‟m ranting, I know, but
really, what would it take to just get to class
on time and do some work? Is that asking so
much?
It‟s still not too late for these students to
turn things around. All it would take is a little effort and determination, and maybe the
support of their friends.
If someone you care about is shirking
their homework, remind them what they can
be. No one‟s talent should be squandered
because they don‟t want to do something.
Life is too short and too valuable to just
throw it and its opportunities to the wayside.
Please, guys, I know this is corny, but try
to make the most of these years in high
school.
Page 10, Opinions
VERNOIS NEWS
Bullock compares the Amazing Race, presidential race
prize at the end of The Amazing Race is a large sum of money, the
prize at the end of the amazing Presidential race is the authority to
rule the capital of the world, the United States of America.
Have you ever seen the show “The Amazing Race”? It‟s a show
Right now, the candidates who are running their race have made
where teams of two people compete in a race around the world to
a lot of promises and have said a lot of things that they wouldn‟t
do things they normally wouldn‟t do otherwise.
normally say if they weren‟t running for PresiAll of the teams try so hard to beat the others, and at
dent. I can almost guarantee that they wouldn‟t
the end of the day the last team to make it to their final
have made up a bunch of slogans about change
destination has to go home, until it gets down to the final
and whatnot if they weren‟t concerned about how
two teams.
much the people liked them. It‟s all just adverTeams who race around the world and say and do
tisements. The slogans, the niceties, and the “I
things they don‟t normally say or do, just to win a contest
care about you” sayings of endearment are all a
… does this sound familiar to you? I think it sounds like the
bunch of bull — period.
race for the 2008 Democratic nomination for president.
Some people tell me, “They say all the stuff
VERNOIS NEWS photo/ realitytvmagaThe “amazing race” for the Democratic nominee slot
zine.com they say because they care about America and
on the ballot started in April 2006 when Mike Gravel an- The amazing political race still rages.
what happens to us,” or “This country needs some
nounced his candidacy. Joining him were others such as Who will come out on top?
things changed around here!” Maybe so, but how
Tom Vilsak (who petered out in February 2007), Joe Biden,
do you know they‟re going to follow through with what they say?
Chris Dodd, John Edwards, Dennis Kucinich, Bill Richardson, and none
That‟s just it, you don‟t now. To them, all they care about is beatother than Hillary Clinton and Barack Obama. Needless to say, Eding the others out, and once one of them wins, all they‟ll care about
wards didn‟t last much longer.
is beating McCain; and then what happens? They don‟t know, and
Now in 2008, the race is down to a regular nail-biting, mudslingneither do I.
ing, and fist-throwing competition between two senators who both
There are only a couple things I know to be true: 1) Jesus Christ
seem to be quite electable.
is Lord, 2) Death and Taxes are guaranteed, and 3) Politicians are
However, with only a couple more states to win and a lead of
fake. We, as a country, need to stop trusting in the words that peoabout .1 million votes (whoever may have the lead), everyone's quesple say and start looking at what they‟ve done. Perhaps some of the
tion is “who will win?” This is a question that not even the political
things they say may be things they‟ll try to follow through with, but
analysts at CNN can answer — the race is just too close.
we can‟t really know. Some would say, “Hillary said that she‟ll fix
Honestly, I could care less about the answers people give me to
our healthcare plan,” or “Obama wants to bring our boys home from
the question “who will win?” What I want to know is this: “After
Iraq.” The real question is, do they really want to? Right now, it‟s
they win, what will they do with their prize?” Because while the
all one big contest. It‟s just another race. Amazing, huh?
By Kat Bullock
VERNOIS NEWS
New school denied; student gives reasons for error
By Amy Hawkins
VERNOIS NEWS
In the spring of 2007, we finally had a real
chance to build a new school. It came to
election day and I was sure that we were
going to get it. We had had open houses to
have people look and see how bad MV students really had it. But the verdict was a
big fat NO. A lot of other students and I
were devastated that the community of Mt.
Vernon wasn‟t willing to give to the future
of this town.
I‟m a senior at MV and my freshman
year we celebrated the 100th birthday of
this high school. It was quite a celebration
but some of us thought it was a little sad
that we‟ve had the same classrooms and
tile floor for 100 years. Not only is the look
of Mt. Vernon High School a little rugged,
but the student body needs some changes
also. It‟s like we get so hot from not having any air conditioning in the spring in
some classrooms and summer so we just
start to fight each other. This school has
been going downhill since the first day of
my freshman year, maybe even before
that.
The administration tries things like
changing our schedule, shortening our
lunch, contemplating a restricted dress
code, closing campus, and many more
changes to improve the school. Every year
before school starts, maintenance does
renovations to either make the school look
better or fix something that really needs
to be done. But after all the renovations
we have done every summer, we all are
still left with many of the same problems
we‟ve had before. In fact, most of the
summer work is mandated by law.
Don‟t get me wrong. I‟ve loved the
time I spent at MV and I love the tradition
that is kept every time anyone steps in the
Changnon Gymnasium. But there‟s always
a time for change. The traditions can still
be kept, but we don‟t have to keep these
buildings standing forever. A lot can be
changed for the better if we can just get a
new school. Stop wasting our time on disciplinary meetings trying to fix our rules and
regulations; when all we really need is a
new school to close campus, because we‟ll
have a big new cafeteria to hold all of us.
If they decide to, the school would only be
one building, so there could only be one
entrance. No more having to stay wet all
day on rainy days.
A lot of the issues that are being addressed can all be concluded if we just get
a new school. Yes, it raises our taxes, but
only for the time it takes to build it. This is
actually hurting the town of Mt. Vernon; if
we did get a new school, maybe it would
draw people to want to come to Mt.
Vernon.
If the community of Mt. Vernon truly
cares about this place we call home, I think
they would be concerned about its future.
We are the future of Mt. Vernon, and if it
doesn‟t grow then there are few opportunities left for us who need a career. If you
vote yes for a new school, then yes, taxes
will have to be raised to help pay for the
new building. But if you vote no, then
taxes will be raised also for renovations to
a building that really has no hope.
So why not be for the new school and
be a part of making a difference in a town
that needs it?
Opinions, Page 11
VERNOIS NEWS
Minor imparts opinion on opinions
By Leah Minor
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
Opinions are the hardest
journalistic stories for this
journalist to engage in for
two reasons.
The first reason stands
that I‟m terrible at generating topics.
The topic can be light;
posing a gentle, fluffy idea
about non-controversial
topics such as my views on
the importance of hobbies or the advantages
of mechanical pencils compared to old-school
wooden ones.
The other opinion is to examine and attempt to persuade my audience to lean one
way or the other about a subject of great
controversy, such as a pinpointed facet of
morality or my political convictions.
The difficulty in such a decision is only
magnified by the pressures associated with
the second basis for my distaste in opinions.
The second, and more pressing, of the
two reasons is that I experience an irrepressible fear that voicing my opinion is comparable with social suicide.
It might be noticed that one small, sometimes insignificant difference in opinion between two high school students can result in
a complete clash of clichés.
Even now, through only reading this much
of an opinion in the school paper, there will
be people scoffing at my word choices or because they believe mechanical pencils can‟t
hold a candle to wooden ones.
The bottom line is that everything that
one does in high school, and, really, for the
rest of her life, hast the potential of rankling
someone else.
This includes speaking, writing, gestures,
who your friends are, etc., and all of the inverses of these (not speaking, not writing, not
gesturing, with whom you aren‟t friends,
etc.).
This makes my reluctance to share my
opinions more understandable.
Unfortunately, it also gives the impression that I suffer as a person whose actions
are driven solely by their opinions of others.
This is true in a twisted way.
Everyone likes to be liked.
Unfortunately, being disliked for your
opinions and actions is inescapable.
Simply put, I hope to save myself from
unnecessary enemies by controlling my opinion output.
However, the door swings both directions.
The other half is saving oneself from enemies in high school, well, in life, rather, is to
be empathetic to others.
In making an effort to recognize the validation and potential of others‟ opinions, we
are able to develop our own opinions, and
perhaps even acquire a deeper understanding
of the advantage of keeping to ourselves.
Senior looks back on high school journey
By Haley Smith
VERNOIS NEWS
The senior class of 2008 has come a very long
way. It feels as if just yesterday we were
graduating from our grade schools and couldn‟t wait to become freshmen. We had no
idea what was to come; only time would tell.
In the end, we would all be united and become alumni of Mt. Vernon Township High
School.
Freshman year brought a lot of changes
to our lives, but from what I can remember,
it was all positive. We all had made new
friends and were participating in high school
sports. We had never been so excited. Some
of us rode to school with older friends of
ours, which came in extra handy. We could
put our books in their cars before and after
lunch, which helped to lighten the load of our
extremely heavy backpacks and it was so
much “cooler” to ride to school with a friend
rather than having our parents take us.
My friends and I grew very close. We all
were experiencing the same things and were
“growing up”. We girls were starting to date
older guys and started going on dates, while
guys were trying their best to fit in with the
upperclassmen and look cool to all the ladies.
Little did we know that in the end, all that
mattered was each other.
Sophomore year rolled around and
“comfort” set in. MV was now our home
away from home. All of the awkward and
unfamiliar feelings were out of the way. Our
class was getting geared up to finally receive
our license! This was the most important
part of sophomore year. An open campus
lunch was our ticket to freedom for the day
and we couldn‟t wait to “cruise” on our own
to lunch to fill our tummies and hit up all the
parties on the weekends. After putting in
time as freshmen, we were now considered to
be “in” and it was the greatest feeling.
If you add the dreadful ACT, PSAE, our
very first prom, and being considered upperclassmen together, you would get our junior
year. Junior year was a time for even more
change. Spending week nights cramming for
the ACT on top of other classes seems to ring
a bell for this year. With so many things going on, it was hard for us to stay focused on
only school work, but it turned out just fine.
When asked about junior year, Prom sticks
out the most. Stories are always heard about
how much fun prom was and underclassmen
were always jealous of not being able to attend, but now it was our time to go and we
definitely made the best out of it. Socializing
with upperclassmen, not having “immature”
freshmen running around, dancing the night
away and spending our last big event at Mt.
Vernon with our senior friends seemed like
heaven. Soon enough, it would be our very
last year at MV.
Whether we were ready or not, senior
year took its place. We were now the oldest
students and we “ruled the school,” pushing
our seniority to the max. We would now experience was it was like a plan out our future, get a feel for what our next year in college would be like, lose the curfews, spend as
much time with friends as possible, take the
easy classes and experience extreme senioritis.
Stories about how awesome senior year
was are always told. MV has made that same
story possible for the class of 2008. Spending
four years at MV has been the greatest times
of my life. Sure, it has had its ups and
downs, but overall, a lot has been learned
here.
No matter which high school you attend,
you may think that yours is the best to graduate from, but you are mistaken. MV has so
much tradition, so many stories, legends, and
a great past to it. After all, it is over one
hundred years old. Graduating from anywhere
else wouldn‟t be such an honor. MV will be
missed by the graduating class of 2008.
Remind your friends to pick up their copy of the Vernois News!
Page 12, The Buzz
The Buzz
Seniors reflect on high school careers
Members of the class of O8 offer favorite MV memories
By Leah Minor
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
Green shirts to blue, walking to Subway to driving
to Taco Bell, Freshmen to SENIORS!
The class of „08 has come a long way since
beginning at MV in 2004.
They have survived everything from the presidential elections to earthquakes that rattled the
entire state.
They have cheered themselves hoarse when our teams were
undefeated, and banded together to claim the infamous spirit stick.
Together, they have learned and played and grown and are well
on their way to creating who they will be for the rest of their lives.
They have worked hard, and through doing so, created a strong,
promising group of young people.
Through the four years they‟ve spent at MV, they have created
memories that will last a life time.
MV sends the class of „08 out into the world with confidence,
and a fervent hope that they will remember MV and all the great
experiences they‟ve shared within her walls.
What is your favorite sports-related memory?
“Being on the sideline as the 2006
Rams went undefeated in football
for 11 weeks in a row.”
-Emily Estes
“My favorite sports memory was when I was in
soccer and got a goal for
the first time.”
-Hope Bialik
“Playing football with
my team,
and the brotherhood
we all shared.”
-Yonas Habtemariam
“Playing hacky-sack with
the posse.”
-Josh Williams
“Making it through the ACT‟s.
That was a rough two days.”
-Shelby Campbell
“The only sports memories I have are from
P.E.”
-Cassie Porter
“My favorite memory was when
the football team went 11-0.
It was a really good time watching them demolish everyone they
played.”
-Skyler Marlow
“Being in Chaos Cage senior year, and
being in the Elite 8.”
-Kristen Atchison
The Buzz, Page 13
What was your favorite academic-related memory?
“When the Spanish and French classes went to Foreign Language day at
SIUC, and the Spanish team took 1st place in Scholar Bowl.”
-Canetta Blakemore
“Anything that didn‟t
involve Calculus.”
-Dennis Sinks
“By far, my favorite memory is
the orchestra
trip to Disney
world. It was
epic.”
-Jared Barker
“Dissecting the cat in Bio 2. It was
horrible … but memorable.”
-Leah Conner
What was your all-time favorite MV memory?
“My favorite memory would have to be frosh/
soph year, when we would hang out by the tree.
It was a good time.”
-Tasha Ellis
“When we won
the spirit stick!”
-Karissa Johnson
“My most
memorable
moment at MV
is giong to be
graduation.”
-Martha
Manne
“My favorite memory
would be when Dr. Pepple
went on the announcements
and said that there was a
swarm of bees going across
campus.”
-Janalynn McCrary
“Getting out of school for two days when
a kid set the bathroom
dispenser on fire.”
-Brittney Kryger
“Going to my senior prom in a
mossy oak camo dress
with my amazing boyfriend.”
-Kayla Wilson
‘08
“Participating in the
World of Backyard
Wresting (WBW) sophomore year at
SpringFling.”
“My first chest hair was a
good time. I saw it,
screamed,
and spent the rest of the
night over a bucket of chocolate ice cream.”
-Coyn Mateer
Page 14, Odds & Ends
VERNOIS NEWS
Odds & Ends
Fun Facts:
The Bible, which is the world‟s
best-selling book, is also the most
shoplifted.
The world‟s largest toy distributor is McDonald‟s.
In Los Angeles, a law states, “you
may not hunt moths under a
street light.
The Mona Lisa has no eyebrows
because at the time, shaving eyebrows was a fad.
The shortest war ever lasted 38
minutes.
Everyone has their own individual
tongue print.
More than 80% of adult smokers
started in their teens.
The average bank teller loses
about $250 a year.
Earthworms have five hearts.
If an Amish man has a beard, he
is married.
Apples are more efficient in waking you up in the morning than
coffee.
Watching TV is a natural painkiller for children.
Our national anthem actually has
three verses, but we only sing the
first one.
Under Arrest!
You may have been breaking the law and not even realized
it. These are actual laws, passed in our own state of Illinois.
The English language is not to be spoken.
You may be arrested for vagrancy if you do not have at
least one dollar bill on your person.
You must contact the police before entering a city in an
automobile.
It is against the law to make faces at dogs.
It is illegal for anyone to give lighted cigars to dogs, cats,
or any other domesticated animals.
Law forbids eating in any place that is on fire.
You may be convicted of a class-4 felony if you are caught
eavesdropping on your own conversation.
Courtesy of www.ahajokes.com
Try our Super Sudoku! To check your answers, log
on to www.sudoku-solutions.com/sudoku.php!
Odds & Ends, Page 15
VERNOIS NEWS
Odds & Ends
Frame Games
Each of these frames represents a common saying or phrase. Take your best guess, then check the answers underneath.
1. Peace of mind 2. Jack in the box 3. Coloring in the lines 4. Extended visit 5. Foreign
languages 6. It‟s on the tip of my tongue
Look Closely!
Can you spot the differences between these two photos of Dontrell Black, „08? There are several, so keep your eyes peeled!
Page 16, Commentary
Editorial
VERNOIS NEWS
A VERNOIS PUBLICATIONS GROUP Newspaper
Editorial Board:
VERNOIS NEWS
Editorial Cartoon
Leah Minor, Editor in Chief
Alicia Sheldon, Managing Editor
Gabe Cralley, Opinions Editor
Mr. Jamey VanZandt, Adviser
Editorial
New Dress Code Approved
Before you freak out, just read down a little bit. In response to
the proposed dress code with the spirit wear and the like, a group of
students came together to define our current dress code, considering it
was said to be too vague.
It‟s basically the same, with a few minor clarifications, such as
necklines on a shirt can‟t be lower than armpit level.
We‟ve gained a victory as a student body, guys, but we have to
keep it up.
Next year, we all need to try our best to follow the dress code as it
has been redefined. Otherwise, we‟ll go back to the whole orange polo
thing.
This means maybe swallowing our pride a little bit and buying a
few new shirts and pairs of shorts, but really, it‟s not that big of a
deal. It‟s much better than the alternative, and we, as a staff, encourage and admonish you all to follow the dress code.
And, please, don‟t complain. Remember what we could be wearing: individuality-erasing uniforms, complete with that abrasive orange
that we‟ve all come to love in our years here at MV.
It‟s up to us to carry this thing forward. Let‟s make it happen because we don‟t want those prison uniforms.
A change has been made in favor of the students.
Let‟s support it, MV.
Pra
Am
Leah
Minor
„09
Editorial Cartoon
Ross
Rubenacker
„08
VN Staff says “Thank you!”
Through riots and policy changes, snow days and persuasive essays,
you, MV, have been faithful to the Vernois News this year.
You stuck with us in spite of our not having a February issue.
You kept reading the paper under the leadership of our new editorin-chief, Leah Minor (who, by the way, has done an excellent job)
It have been a wonderful year, MV, and we thank you all so much
for sending us your articles and stories and breathing life into this
newspaper. We couldn‟t do it without you!
-Vernois News Editorial Staff
Editorial Cartoon
Leah Minor, Editor in Chief
Alicia Sheldon, Managing Editor
Gabe Cralley, Opinions Editor
Mr. Jamey VanZandt, Adviser
Morgan
Feltmeier „08
Have an excellent summer, MV!
VERNOIS NEWS
Columns
Columns, Page 17
Minor recalls mercenary experience, mourns imagination
lantis, and we were the eager explorers looking to risk life and limb
to discover them and earn a place in St. Mary‟s history.
We continued our quest, treating the kitchen as a cave where we
Barbies, ghost stories, and sugar packets.
must stay silent and sneaky if we were to evade the teachers, and
This is the Cliff Notes version of my experiences at the afterwin our treasure. After minutes of intense searching, our spirits
school program at St. Mary‟s Catholic School. We called it “Class.”
started to sink. Finally all hope of finding the proposed candy dwinClass consisted of a snack and chaperoned free time during
dled, as we searched the last, and least promising drawers and cabiwhich students were allowed to do homework, play with the Class
nets. We became desperate for some shred of memorabilia of our
toys, play in the gym or, on nice days, we went outside.
heroic odyssey. And that‟s when we found it.
As the child of a hard-working single parent, I was a regular on
In the cabinet below the lunch counter was a massive cardboard
the Class list along with several other close friends from my grade.
box filled to the brim will little white sugar packets.
After we had exhausted the available board games,
Sugar packets were perfect! There were so many, a
lost all interest in the bucket full of Barbie's, and grew
few wouldn't be missed. They could be discreetly hantiresome of tag, we resorted to different means of endled. And best of all, we would have been allowed them
tertainment.
had we only asked, so the conscience issue wasn't quite
Groups of us would venture into the girl‟s bathroom
as hindering.
to turn out the lights and tell ghost stories. We would
We crawled back to the door where our lookout
pull chairs together to make forts to protect us from the
waited to signal the decoy.
boy germs that we knew were in heavy circulation
Soon after, we gathered and toasted our sugar packaround the Class room. We would even attempt to recreets to a mission well-accomplished.
ate our favorite Spice Girls songs.
As the days turned to weeks, our missions to the
But, due to the short attention spans of my group of
sugar box became more acutely planned.
stereo-typical third grade girls, even these pastimes soon
We learned to hide the packets in the elastic of our
became dull.
uniform skirts, freeing our hands of suspicious clenching.
Desperate for a new means of excitement, we
VERNOIS NEWS photo: Google
We started to congregate in the girl‟s bathroom to
racked our brains and tossed ideas around with one an- Stolen sugar packets like
share our loot, so as not to form a culpable huddle in the
other. Out of the blue, Mrs. Gill‟s rumored candy bar Leah describes.
girl‟s bathroom to share our loot, so as not to form a
stash was mentioned.
culpable huddle in the back of the Class room.
Mrs. Gill, the lunch lady, was said to have candy bars hidden
We got caught loads of times.
somewhere in the kitchen for her indulgence.
Luckily, the penalty for stealing sugar packets wasn't that seWe decided to explore and find what we could. The plan convere.
sisted of three to five girls; a decoy, a lookout, and a search party.
Actually, the time-outs probably helped us more than hurt us, by
The kitchen door was always open, and in a sea of Polo‟s, navy, and
giving us time to find the glitches in our plans.
plaid, we didn't expect to be missed.
Looking back I realized how easy it was to get caught up in our
When we had successfully entered the kitchen, we stayed on our
treasure hunts.
hands and knees, each humming the Mission Impossible theme song
A totally different world existed within the infinity that was our
in our tiny pigtailed heads.
young minds.
I don‟t recall having any intentions of actually stealing the candy
Unfortunately, I‟ve started to picture my imagination as deflatbars and remembering our Catholic curriculum-instilled right and
ing as I grow older; the immensity of it being squeezed smaller and
wrong mentality at the time, I don't think our consciences would
smaller as I learn more and have the cold facts of reality set before
have allowed it.
me.
But, just finding the stash would have supplied us with the inI can still daydream. But, I‟ve lost the ability to see how third
famy we sought. For you see, these candies were comparable to Atgrades became mercenaries. I can‟t see how a kitchen became a
By Leah Minor
Editor-In-Chief
StuCo adventures, passion for Gulley revealed
By Coyn Mateer
VERNOIS NEWS
As a freshman, after hard thought I decided to run for student council. After my wonderful campaign, I would win President, and it felt
good to be the king, I walked into our first meeting with pride and
my head tall. Sedra Pearson called the meeting to order, and that‟s
when I saw her. She had streaming black hair and the face of a goddess: that was the day I would meet Mrs. Melanie Gulley.
Over the years I have admired Mrs. Gulley from a distance and
even expressed my feelings for her by buying her an electric flying
cow, chocolates, even a rose of ever-changing colors, but I have
never come out and told everyone how I felt about it. After being
shot down and criticized by her for four years however, I have given
up.
I still see Mrs. Gulley every Tuesday and Wednesday morning at
StuCo and they are the best days of every week. If there is one
thing I‟m going to miss from this high school, it is my friends. I guess
the whole point of this column is not only that I would like to declare Mt.Vernon‟s own (Mrs. Gulley) the hottest gal on campus, but
that I have enjoyed my time on StuCo and all the things she and
VanZandt have done for me.
I have learned many lessons through student council and have
many memories, but I have also made many friends that I would
have never met without entering it, and have grown closer to others
whom I may not have had without being on it. I will never forget the
nursing home visits, our wonderful trips in the van and the first time
I walked into a meeting, or when I got volunteered to do the announcements. I will always remember our senior executive board
and how we always argued but I still wouldn‟t choose any other people to be on it. But most of all, I will miss the Wednesday morning
meetings where my day always starts out right. Thank You.
Page 18, Columns
VERNOIS NEWS
Ile looks back on experiences at MV
By Landon Ile
VERNOIS NEWS
My four years of high school are almost over, and all
has gone by so quick. It seems like yesterday I wandered on this campus for the first time with my
blonde highlights, and my braces. I remember the
always exciting walks to DQ and Hucks. I remember
walking to Hucks with Eric Lyday, and James Jackson
when we heard screeching tires and we turned
around as a truck was turning over on its side. Nobody got hurt, and the kids all got up and flipped the
car back on its wheels. Freshman year was probably
one of my favorite years.
Sophomore year was the year of the great G
building fire that got us out of school for two days.
The hops were still over in the warehouse, which
were the best. That was probably the last year my
whole group of friends were still close, before everybody broke off and did their own things, and made
new friends. I‟m not saying we‟re not all still friends;
we are just not the way we were.
Junior year went by really quick. Not much happened last year. For the first time our soccer team
actually won a couple of games. I finally had my license so I could drive to lunch so I didn‟t have to
walk. I was single for the first time in my high school
career. Junior year was probably the most boring
year as I anticipated my beloved senior year.
Senior year is finally here I remember freshman
year dreaming of being a senior, and I thought it
would never come. Not only did it come but it has
been one of the most exciting years yet! We started
out the year with riots, with the police driving up on
the squad. Our soccer team had its first ever winning
season and we went on to win our first regional
game, and make it to the regional finals for the first
time in the school‟s history.
There are only a few days left of my high school
career, and it‟s hard to believe it all has gone by so
fast. As we prepare for graduation I‟m excited to see
what life has in store for me in college.
VERNOIS NEWS photo/ VanZandt
Siriwut “Bank” Limprasurtsak, „08, and
Priscila Arazia, „08, enjoy their time at
Prom. The dance was an exciting experience for the foreign exchange
students.
We are MV Cheerleading
By Amy Hawkins
VERNOIS NEWS
Cheerleading is a word that has been in my life for 11 years. When
most people think of cheerleading they think: cute girls, short skirts,
jumps and yells “rah rah rah” at the same time, for me, cheerleading
is so much more than just “rah rah rah.”
I have cheered all my life but nothing compares to MV cheerleading. I didn‟t know I could be as nervous as I was at freshman year
cheerleading tryouts. I shook all over, I couldn‟t remember anything,
and I remember me entering Changnon Gymnasium with my mind
completely blank. “2,3,4…”, “2,3,4 Go Rams…” I could not remember
a thing from the cheer that we learned.
For a minute I thought I was going to fall over and die right there
in that gym. But I finally got myself together and pulled the cheer
off. I made it! Football and Basketball cheerleading, I was more than
excited! This is where the best four years of my life began.
Cheerleading was my home away from home, my comfort zone. If
I was having a bad day, or something was going on in my life, the
whole team would always be there no matter what. The coaches
were also always waiting for us with open arms. For us seniors, this
year was most important and the most intimate year. There were
only three of us, and our team was considered family.
All four years of cheerleading we have stayed in the top three in
the state. We have been the most successful, and I can not believe
all of the things we have accomplished. From my freshman year tryouts to now, this experience has gone by faster than I can even remember. There were times I wanted to quit, and times I wanted to
do it for the rest of my life. But cheerleading wasn‟t only a fun experience for me, it was a great learning experience for everyone.
The coaches, and all the situations and problems we have had to
face have taught me so much; How to handle certain people, how to
work with a lot of people at one time. Surprisingly enough we have
been through a lot of bad. It has taught me to be a much better person: stronger, nicer, and much more mature.
I have no idea what I‟m going to do without cheerleading. It has
not only always been a part of my life, but also my family‟s life. I
have known nothing else and I‟m going to miss it like no other person
or thing like it.
I‟m sure my next four years of college will teach me much more
and later on those will be the best four years of my life (I doubt it). I
will learn a lot more but I‟ll take the lessons I‟ve learned from my
cheerleading experience and carry them with me through my life.
Nothing can top the memories and friends I‟ve made the past four
years. It will forever be in my heard and cheerleading will always be
in my life.
So cheerleaders don‟t take it for granted. When you want to quit
or the coaches are getting you down, just remember, before you
know it, it will be all over and it will end up being the best time of
your life. All good things must come to an end, but will forever stay
in your heart.
VERNOIS NEWS www.mvths.org/vnews/display
MVTHS State cheerleading champs take home their third state championship in
the past twelve years.
VERNOIS NEWS
Columns, Page 19
Wells has positive impact on student’s life
it‟s like to take part in the actions of it. Not only this
but we spend a weekend in the state capitol and are
treated like real senators and legislators. It‟s such and
Throughout my four years at MV I have been
amazing experience.
involved in many activities. Two that stand
If it wasn't for Mr. Wells, I wouldn't have even
out highly in my mind are Youth and Governthought about being in the program. I would have
ment and Mock Trial. Not only were these
missed out on so many wonderful things. I met many
very educational and helpful in developing
new people and got a completely new outlook on the
many skills, my advisor has influenced my life
legislative process. My sophomore year I was invited
and truly made high school more enjoyable
into the program by Mr. Wells and Ms. Pilson. I started
and memorable.
out being a page and worked my way to a legislator my
Mr. Andy Wells has been so helpful to me.
junior and senior year.
No matter what it is, he is always willing to
I also have had Mr. Wells as a teacher. He taught
help. Being his assistant for the last two
my Political Science class. I didn't quite understand
years, I have grown to know and respect him.
everything all the time, but Mr. Wells always made it
If I needed help on anything, Mr. Wells always
fun, even throughout the dullest subjects, like the hiertried to help.
archies of other countries.
Mr. Wells truly cares about his students
I guess all I‟m trying to say is I can never truly thank
and their well-being. If I ever had doubts on
Mr. Wells enough for his dedication, teaching, and aca decision, I knew I could go to him and he
VERNOIS NEWS photo/ Alicia Sheldon tual hope for me as a student. He has been there to
would lead me in the right direction. He has Mr. Andy Wells, Social Studies, grades papers
help, lend a hand or just give an encouraging word.
helped me through many things. Not just at his desk. Wells teaches American History
As I go on to college I will never forget him repeatand
Government
classes,
and
sponsors
Youth
getting my homework done or understanding
ing all the rules and regulations on dress code and repand Government.
the subject, but helping me make good deciresenting Mount Vernon at Youth and Government
sions. Mr. Wells is also the reason I got involved in Youth and Govmeetings and bellowing random sayings and statements at students
ernment.
down the hall.
Youth and Government has been one of the best organizations in
Most of all, I won‟t forget the way he has impacted my life. I
which I have been involved. I learned how bills are passed and what
will always know there is someone back at good ol‟ MV that wants
By Lauren Zedalis
VERNOIS NEWS
Sheldon looks back at 2007, 08
By Alicia Sheldon
MANAGING EDITOR
Where has my
year gone?
As I get
older,
every
year
gets
shorter
and
shorter. We‟re
already
five
months
into
2008, and it
seems like just yesterday I was
ripping open presents under the
Christmas tree. This year has
been a flying blur of color, and I
can‟t seem to figure out how to
slow it down.
This was, really, my year to
branch out. Freshman year, I was
only involved in two extracurricular activities. Sophomore
year? The grand total comes to
nine. This makes for a busy
schedule, yes, but I enjoy every
minute of it. I‟ve made tons of
new friends just from joining
different organizations, which
brings me to a small piece of
advice: get involved. There are
so many clubs and sports to join,
it‟s silly to sit around and let all
kinds of fun things pass you by.
For me, a big part of this
year was learning. When I came
home from school, I could actually name new things I‟d learned
in a day at MV. I felt like I really
picked up some useful skills,
such as cooking and driving.
Sadly, I had no clue how to perform either of those tasks at
first, but now I can say that I‟ve
improved greatly. (Though, I do
admit, my first driving experience was dreadful. But I‟ll save
myself the embarrassment from
that story.)
Not all of the learning I
speak of necessarily came from
school. I learned a lot about myself this year, too. That came
from fortunate and unfortunate
situations. But in the end, I don‟t
regret a minute of it. Everything
that‟s happened has happened
for a reason, and it‟s only made
me stronger. It‟s improved the
way I look at myself and others,
and that‟s something I‟ve needed
for a very long time.
So, only two years of MV
left. It‟s a little scary to think
about, honestly. But somehow, I
think I‟ll make it.
Senioritis takes its
toll
By Brittany Kryger
VERNOIS NEWS
“Senioritis” a term used to describe the decreasing motivation
towards studies displaced by
students who are nearing the end
of their high school careers.
Second semester has brought
senioritis over me. I have started
focusing more on college than
high school; visiting colleges,
applying for housing, and thinking about choosing my career has
taken over. First semester I was
still focused on high school and
the things going on with high
school. However, this semester I
have become very antsy to
graduate, and ready to move on
to college.
Assignments and homework
have remained the same if not
harder. Teachers cram in lastminute assignments right before
year‟s end, and their grumpy
attitudes do not help with the
situation. I have noticed I am not
the only one dealing with senior-
itis. Many of the seniors in my
classes are getting fed up with
all the work that is being loaded
on us. The results of which mean
it doesn‟t get done, or it gets
done poorly. I understand that
we are still in high school, but
having two hours of homework
every night, six weeks or so before graduation seems extreme.
Starting in August I will be
attending SIU-C. I am very excited about moving on to college. I will be living in the
dorms, hopefully at Thompson
Point. I am not sure what I am
going to major in. I am looking
forward to being on a new campus and experiencing new things.
After returning from spring
break, I only have to make it five
more weeks; hopefully keeping
my grades up to par.
I recommend that seniors try
to stay focused, and get their
assignments done. Five weeks
will fly by before we know it,
and we are out of here.
Page 20, Columns
VERNOIS NEWS
Rubenacker recognizes friends „til the end
By Ross Rubenacker
VERNOIS NEWS
As my years at MVTHS are about to
come to an end, I look back and wonder where it all went. These were the
fastest four years of my life. I‟ve
been involved in a few different extracurricular activities over my time
here, which were great experiences.
I played golf all four years for the
Rams. Through golf, I met a lot of
different people that I still talk to,
not just on the golf course. Golf was
more than just an extracurricular
activity for me, it was a great life
experience. From the competition to
the nonstop fun we had as a team and
in our foursomes, it was awesome. I
had a few of my closest friends on the
golf team, which made the experience that much better, being able to
share it with them. Some were better
than others, but I enjoyed playing
with them every time out. It was always a blast. Even when one of us
played badly, it‟s hard to stay mad
when you have them cracking jokes
the whole time.
But as the school year comes to
an end, I think about the times on the
golf course and wonder if it will ever
be the same. With some of them going away to college, it may turn into a
“once in a while” thing, while it used
to be an everyday thing. I have one
good friend that will still be around in
high school and another couple that
will be going to college with me, but
my other couple friends will be going
away to college.
I‟m not just thinking about golf
friends, but others as well, that I‟ve
gathered over the years here and the
friends I‟ve had since the beginning of
grade school. We go all the way back
to Rome Grade School days. “Hornets
in the House!”
I‟m not sad about graduating; I‟m
excited to see what is in store for all
of us. But as the year draws to a
close, I know this summer, possibly
our last, will be one of the greatest
summers ever.
Disbelief strikes seniors
By Hope Bialik
VERNOIS NEWS
Senior year is finally here. Life
has changed rapidly since freshman year. I remember when I was
a freshman and didn‟t know my
way around the campus and felt
so small in a big school. I came
from a little town called Dix,
where I went to Rome Grade
school and didn‟t know what to
expect or where to start. All I
knew is that I hoped for the best
and that I had people in my
classes that I knew.
I never fully thought of high
school as a top priority. I just
thought it was something I had to
do in order to get into college.
Now I realized how fast it has all
gone by and how my life is going
to change dramatically. I am uncertain on how hard the classes
will be and what the teachers
will expect from me. Everybody
will be going their different ways
and applying to different colleges, and some will be moving
hours away from me.
I‟m going to miss the social
part of high school the most. My
friends were an important part of
my high school years. Courtney
and I have been best friends
throughout this whole process.
We always got along and had a
lot of fun together when we hung
out. Six Flags, Cardinal games,
and shopping at malls were just a
few of the things we‟ve done
together.
It‟s crazy that I‟m not going
to be a student at MV anymore. I
will never walk the halls of MV
ever again. I have been working
for Mrs. Carol Hutchison in the
bookroom for three years now.
It‟s been so convenient for me
because I can go upstairs to PASS
class to get tutored if I need to
during my assistant hour. Mrs.
Hutchison is a very nice lady to
be an assistant for and someone
you can get along with very easily.
MV will only be memories
after this year. But I am ready for
the next chapter of my life and
ready to become an adult. I will
never forget the students and
teachers of MV. They played a big
role in my young adult life.
High school summed as growth,
memories, and a smile
By Josh Strothmann
Blue Print Editor
Thinking back on all that‟s
passed before me over the
past four years is truly
mind boggling. In many
ways, I can‟t imagine my
life beyond the halls of
MVTHS, but now I get to
experience what life is like
without the comforting
nature of high school.
I can‟t deny how petrified I am of the incredible
change that‟s about to
waltz into my life, but
without change life would
be a routine. To be honest,
I would rather lived confused and constantly struggling than be safe all the
time.
I‟ve learned so much
from my parents, teachers,
and friends. My mind has
collected so much knowl-
edge and I‟ve grown as a
person. Even though I‟ve
made some huge mistakes,
I can‟t ignore how much
those mistakes have given
me in the long run.
Learning to be vulnerable and open to people
has given me access to myself. I know all of this
sounds odd, but high school
is an awkward time for
everyone.
Performing at coffeehouses is among the fondest of my memories. I
thank the clubs that organize these events. They give
opportunities to those who
need to express themselves
creatively.
In the future, I‟ll look
upon my time here with a
smile and a frown. A smile
for all the things I‟m glad I
did, and a frown for all the
things I wish I had done.
Payne stops fearing the unknown
By Logan Payne
VERNOIS NEWS
Have you ever had something
planned, like going to a concert
with your friends? Then your
parents say you can‟t go, and
you have to beg your parent to
reconsider or tell your friends
you can‟t go?
Then there is the Christmas
upset where you just know you
are going to get something you
have been really wanting, but
your parents don‟t come close
to getting the gift you want
most. You just smile and thank
them for what they did get you.
Life can be upsetting at
times, but such typical upsets
are easy to plan on and prepare
for.
There are some things
though, that you just can‟t plan
for.
Mid-Febuary was the season
for the most recent and terrible
of upsets for me. My girlfriend
decided to part ways with me.
Everything had been fine up to
that day; nothing had suggested
an incoming split. We had our
ups and downs, but this took me
by total surprise. I thought she
was “the one,” but it just wasn‟t meant to be.
Before the breakup, we
went on a “break.”
The
“break” period really tore me
up inside, and nothing had even
happened yet, I felt sick, couldn‟t sleep very well, and I suffered from a loss of appetite.
This went on for a week
until I finally got the call that it
was over. A weight, formed of
fear, doubt, and worry felt like
it had been lifted from my
shoulders.
I still feel sad, but I no
longer feel sick all the time or
have sleepless nights, although I
still can‟t eat as much as I used
to. I realized that I shouldn‟t
have been so afraid of what
might happen, because that fear
caused more damage to me than
the actual split.
When all you see around you
is dark and everything you hear
is bad news, face the unknown,
but augment your stand with
reason. Don‟t let the fear of
the unknown get you down.
VERNOIS NEWS
Columns, Page 21
Campbell bids final
farewell
By Shelby Campbell
VERNOIS NEWS
The high school experience for me has been
amazing! Looking back on my life, these four
years at MV will clearly stick out thanks to
the wonderful people I have met and the fun
things I have done.
Freshman year feels like it just ended
yesterday. You don‟t realize how fast your
high school years go by until they‟re over.
From walking to Dairy Queen freshman year,
to winning the spirit stick (most of the time)
your senior year, high school has so many
great features to look back on.
MV not only provides students an education but also teaches so much about life.
Many students come to “socialize,” and
there is nothing wrong with that. At times
some may even look forward to getting up in
the morning and coming to school.
I would not trade in my high school years
for anything. I‟m very upset to see the end
quickly approaching. In high school, you get
your license, go to prom, and gain
“independence.” These are truly some of
the best years of your life.
Looking into the future, I know what‟s
coming; college, bills, and much responsibility. It‟s time for the class of „08 to start
looking at what they seriously want to do
with their life. Yes, everyone has to do it
sometime, but not because they want to,
just simply because it is part of life.
To the underclassmen, take advantage
of this time while you have it, because before you know it, you will be in the same
position as the class of „08 is now. Live life
to the fullest! Achieve what you have always
dreamed to do, but more importantly, have
fun while doing it.
High school has been a blast. It‟s very
unfortunate that our time together is concluding. Thankfully, I have many fun and
exciting memories to look back on.
Swimsuit bottoms provide quick fix
By Morgan Feltmeier
VERNOIS NEWS
Can you remember your first day of kindergarten?
I remember it like it was yesterday. I was
dressed in this pink, puffy dress that had lots
of ruffles. The only bad thing is that my mom
made me wear a dress like that every day, it
was horrible.
You‟re probably wondering why this was
so awful. Because I had to wear one of these
big puffy dresses, I could never play on the
monkey bars with all of the other kids during
recess. All my other classmates would be
having so much fun hanging upside down,
monkeying around, while my feet had to stay
planted on the ground.
I just wouldn‟t settle with the thought of
never playing at recess, so I came up with the
clever idea to wear my swimsuit bottoms
underneath my dress. The next day when the
bell rang, I ran out, hopped onto the monkey
bars, and let my arms hang upside down.
All the boys in my grade shouted, “Eww,
gross, we can see your underwear!”
I simply climbed down and said, “No
guys, swimsuit bottoms,” while pointing
downward.
Suddenly that made everything all right
and I was allowed to play on the monkey
bars, given that I was wearing my swimsuit
bottoms.
Oh, to be young and naïve again, back to
a time when things like whether we were
going to get to play on the monkey bars was
our biggest problem, and could easily be
fixed with something as simple as swimsuit
bottoms.
Page 22, A&E
Rabbit Habits deemed
A&E
Battle of the Bands rocks MV
“auditory euphoria”
By Caleb Cross
VERNOIS NEWS
The banging of pots, the blowing
of children‟s horns, the hearty
screams of bearded men … what
does all this madness mean?
The new Man Man album has
arrived!
Man Man‟s much anticipated
third album Rabbit Habits was
released April 8 and it certainly
doesn‟t disappoint.
Allmusic.com gave Rabbit
Habits a 4 out of 5 star review,
and pitchforkmedia.com gave it
an equally stellar 8 out of 10.
Yet there are those who
doubt the critics‟ opinions. How
does the everyday listener feel
about the album?
“If I could have one album
play everywhere I go, that everyone around me could hear,
Rabbit Habits would be that
album!” exclaimed Kyle Lamichhane, „09.
Jacob Alvis, „09, expressed
his enthusiasm more subtly,
“It‟s very cool and unique.”
“Rabbit Habits is auditory
euphoria,” affirmed Josh Pollard, „09.
Honus Honus, the lead
singer of Man Man, has declared
Rabbit Habits to be their “pop
album.” Although Man Man still
maintains all their quirks, this is
By Josh Hurst
VERNOIS NEWS
very true. There are tracks that
are instantly likeable and easily
accessible on Rabbit Habits.
The track “Harpoon Fever
(Queequeg‟s Playhouse)” sounds
like something a group of primitives blessed by the gods with
infinite musical talent would
play with the accompaniment of
tribal chants and all.
“I‟m especially fond of
„Harpoon Fever.‟ It‟s the greatest song in the world,” stated
Lamichhane.
“My favorite track is definitely „Hurly Burly,‟ a collection
of sounds appealing to the ear,”
explained Pollard.
Man Man‟s wide variety of
very strange influences can definitely be heard throughout the
album, which makes it an extremely interesting listen. But
does it compare to their tremendously energetic live performances?
“Listening to them on CD is
good, but you can only get the
full experience by seeing them
live in concert,” acknowledged
Pollard.
Sadly, one cannot see Man
Man live every morning on the
drive to school, but one can
certainly listen to Rabbit Habits,
which is definitely the next best
thing. It is an absolute must
listen.
Battle of the Bands swept MV campus once again. This year was full
of talents
w i d e l y
ranging in
musical
genres,
f r o m
scream to
jam bands.
T h i s
year
included the
original
sounds of
“Puzzle”
that rock
the stage
with
a
f u n k y
VERNOIS NEWS photo/ Coyn Mateer
o r i g i n a l Robert Lockwood, „09, rocks out at the Battle of the Bands held April 9,
beat that 2008. His band, Angel Under Fire, blew the crowd away to the last minthe crowd ute of the show.
could not get enough of. With Mike McDaniel on vocals, James Jackson on bass guitar, Josh Strothmann on lead guitar, and Tyler Knox
on the drums, they were a show-stopping crew.
Musical talent, Mike Greenwalt describes Battle of the Bands as
“A great performance with a calibrated mixture of music from funky
blues to the hardcore metal.”
Following was the band “Pounding Artistic” by the talented
Colton Burge thumping on the bass and vocals, with Connor Burge
thrashing on guitar, covering lead names like Red Hot Chili Peppers,
Incubus, and Weezer.
Then Andrew Seagraves shredded some mad metal riffs, to
deafen anyone close to the stage.
The last band came out with a punk screamo flair, Angel Under
Fire, who definitely showed a unique style.
Kyle “Lambo” Lamichhane said, “Battle of the Bands was pretty
sweet.”
Point Fest prepares to rock
By Logan Payne
VERNOIS NEWS
Point Fest 22, put on by
105.7 The Point and
hosted at the Verizon
Wireless Amphitheater,
happens on May 18. The
outdoor venture will start
at 10:00 am.
The Verizon Wireless
Amphitheater is located at
14141 Riverport Drive in
Maryland Heights, Missouri. The fest will offer
29 bands for 29 bucks, and
its for all ages.
Point Fest will be featuring
Serj
Tankian,
Killswitch Engage, Arteyu,
Finger Eleven, Coheed &
Cambria, Shinedown, Filter, Hurt, Ludo, Sick Puppies, 10 Years, Red Safteysuit, Theory of a Dead
Man, and Scary Kids Scaring Kids. Fourteen more
bands are to be announced.
Appropriate clothing
should be worn. According
to Cameron Young, „08,
stand in screamer for local
metal bands, anyone attending a metal concert
should wear black clothing.
VERNOIS NEWS
Cameron‟s main reason
for going is to listen to
some of his favorite bands,
of the bands listed he says
that Killswitch Engage is
the best.
Point Fest is spread by
word of mouth as well as
the usual media venues.
Cameron heard about it
from and is going with
some of his friends by
road.
Point Fest is a concert
to be attended by any self
-respecting metal head
and even dabblers of the
dark music.
Don’t Forget!
Semester Exam
Exemption
Forms Due
May 7th!!!
A&E, Page 23
VERNOIS NEWS
No Country for Old Men receives
rave reviews
By Caleb Cross & Morgan Feltmeier
VERNOIS NEWS
No Country For Old Men was
widely critically acclaimed. It
was nominated for 8 Academy
Awards and won four of them; it
won three British Academy
Awards, and two Golden Globes.
But how was the film received
here at MV?
It played locally at Show
Place 8 for a very short period
of time (while Larry the Cable
Guy movies stay in for half a
year).
“I can summarize this movie
in two words, GET SOME,”
claimed Kyle “Lambo” Lamachhane, „09.
“I loved it, I give it two
thumbs up!” declared Jacob
Alvis, „09.
To David Spicuzza, „08, ordinary human hands were not sufficient to describe this movie,
“I give it three thumbs up!” he
exclaimed.
“It was a really good movie
but the ending caught me off
guard. It was very abrupt,” Josh
Pollard, „09, explained.
James Jackson, „08 agreed.
“The ending was confusing I‟ve
watched it five times now and
I‟m still not entirely sure. It was
a good movie, though.”
Mr. Jeremy Mays, English,
explained, “It stayed true to the
novel. I was hoping they would
expand upon what happens to
Moss at the hotel, though.”
The film won an Academy
Award for best supporting actor
which went to Javier Bardem
according to Oscar.com. Students and staff agreed that the
award was well deserved.
“Anton Chigurh (Bardem‟s
character) was a mastermind
that kept me on the edge of my
seat,” emphasized Kit Grote,
„09.
“[He‟s] The best villain in all
of cinematic history,” Mays
agreed.
Duncan provides One Tree Hill recap
By Lauren Duncan
NEWS EDITOR
When soap opera meets teen
drama, what do you get? One
Tree Hill.
Though the characters of
Tree Hill are no longer teens,
the past four seasons walked
viewers through the ups and
downs of high school life. This
year, the season has fastforwarded four years and the
characters are back in Tree Hill,
confronting each other of past
feelings and reigniting old
friendships.
For those who aren‟t familiar with the show, there is one
actor that may sound familiar,
Chad Michael Murray [Gilmore
Girls, A Cinderella Story, The
House of Wax]. Chad, who plays
Lucas Scott, has a brother, Nathan [James Lafferty] who is
married to Lucas‟s best friend
Haley [Bethany Joy Galeotti]. In
this years season, best friends
Brooke and Peyton [Sophia Bush
and Hilarie Burton] have re-
turned from L.A. and New York
to Tree Hill for a blast from the
past. In the meantime, Lucas‟s
friends Skills and Mouth [Antwon
Tanner and Lee Norris] are still
in Tree Hill to spice things up.
Since this year‟s season is
almost over, many characters
have collided while in Tree Hill.
Nathan and Haley have struggled
with marriage issues. Brooke has
reached out and started helping
people, but she has fired her
mother from Clothes over Bros.
Mouth has quit his job and is
now facing several problems.
Lucas has asked Lindsey to
marry him, after several bouts
between him and Peyton, who
has endeavors of her own.
So what‟s to come for the
characters of Tree Hill? All have
faced difficulty over the past
four years, but slowly they are
all recovering. Will Peyton and
Lucas ever reunite? Will Brooke
find what she has been struggling to find all these years?
Watch One Tree Hill on Mondays
at 8 P.M. to see what happens.
Page 24, Sports
VERNOIS NEWS
Fantasy sports sweep MV campus
popularity.
According to www.mockdraftcentral.com,
they have had a record number of mock drafts take place
this year. Many people join a
few different leagues due to
their addiction to fantasy
sports.
“I am in three different
leagues, all of which are on
yahoo,” stated Bryce Kujawa,
‟09.
To be successful in your
draft(s), one has to spend a
fair share of time doing their
homework by studying the
players and reading beneficial
articles about fantasy baseball. It doesn‟t come quite so
easy. Strategy is key when
going into the draft room.
Many people use many different types of strategies.
“My strategy is just to pick
the best available players,”
added Kujawa.
Part of studying players is
VERNOIS NEWS photo/www.google.com
determining whether or not
they will have a breakout year
Alex Rodriguez of the New York Yankees has
been the first overall pick in many fantasy
and be classified as a sleeper
baseball drafts this year.
or if their age or some other
By Ross Rubenacker & Mike “Big Game” Greenwalt
VERNOIS NEWS
With the first
pick of the 2008
fantasy baseball
draft, Team Big
Game
selects
Alex Rodriguez,
third
baseman
from the New
York Yankees.
The first few
picks of the draft
are easy, but the
picks that come
in
the
later
rounds are what
win
championships.
The
2008
Major
League
Baseball season
is right around
the corner. And
with that comes
the
fantasy
drafts in full
swing.
Fantasy
baseball is rapidly growing in
...Farewell, from page 28
I will never forget the
bowling teams intense
chants before a match, or
receiving several yellow
cards in soccer because I
really just didn‟t know the
rules, I will never forget all
the bus rides to away
games, and I will carry the
relationships I have made
through sports with me for
the rest of my life.
You couldn‟t have a
farewell column without
talking about all the teachers at MV that have affected my life.
I have always been one
to make friendships with
my teachers. One thing
students at MV take for
granite is all the wisdom
and knowledge the teachers at MV have.
I will
never forget teachers such
as Coach Lonnon, Mrs.
Bauer-Prost, Mr. VanZandt,
or even once student
teacher Ms. Powless. Each
one of these teachers has
taught me something different in some way and has
taught me life lessons that
I will never forget.
Some people look at
high school as a time to
prepare for the future,
others a time to party, and
some just something they
have to do during the
week, but I like to think
high school was a time to
make friendships, memories, and if nothing else it
was a time to have fun.
So for those not graduating take advantage of the
time you have at high
school because it will be
over before you know it
and be willing to build relationships with your
teachers because they will
teach you more than just
their subject.
To the class of 2008,
it‟s been real ... it‟s been
fun ... it‟s been real fun.
Good luck as you all head
your own ways and hopefully we all attend the reunions.
factor will cause them to be a bust, and not
produce the numbers they are projected to
put up.
“[Fransisco] Liriano is a stud and will go
late [in the draft]. There‟s no pressure on
him and will easily fill and be better than
Johan [Santana],” explained Kujawa.
“Delmon Young is an up and coming talent just traded to a new team. The move
will be good for him and his fantasy numbers,” said Tyler McLane, ‟10.
As for bust players some fantasy guru‟s
with a lot of time on their hands prepare
themselves a sheet they call a “Do Not Draft
List”. They put the players they think will be
a disappointment this year on it and make
sure they do not select them on draft day
even if they are the best available player
left on the draft board.
“No [I don‟t have one], talk to Sweeney
about that!” exclaimed Kujawa.
“I think “Do Not Draft Lists” are stupid!
If a decent player is left in the later rounds,
take him,” added McLane.
As the season begins, we will see who
will prevail as a fantasy stud, who will be a
complete fantasy dud, and what toll injuries
will have on your fantasy roster. Good luck
with your 2008 fantasy baseball season!
Favorite Senior sports memories
My first carry of my varsity football career was against
Cahokia in a big game and I lost 40 yards. Dontrell Black
SOCCER!!! Bank
John Anderson‟s 50 yard kick to beat Cahokia. Jacob Lemons
My favorite memory was when the football team went 11-1.
Teinisha Johnson
Being on the first ever MV bowling team. Lauren Welker
Being in Khaos Cage and watching the basketball team make
it to the Elite 8! Kristen Atchison
Winning the cheerleading state championship my senior year.
Haley Smith
The love talks during the van rides with Coach McClure and
teammates on the way to golf matches. Mike Greenwalt
VERNOIS NEWS
Page 25, Sports
MV athletics enjoy outstanding year
By Eric Lyday
SPORTS EDITOR
for the Rams, he will be looking to prolong
his wrestling career in college.
The varsity boy‟s basketball team
started the season 0-4 and left all of MV
wondering if the rich tradition of basketball
had evaporated in the King City. This ques-
As another school year comes to a close, and
the departing seniors offer their goodbye‟s,
one must look back at the year that was in
MV athletics … a year filled
with record-breaking moments and tremendous
accomplishments by our
athletic teams.
In football, the season
started black in more than
one way. The Rams lost
their first two games and
faced the possibility of no
home games due to a massive power outage at the
stadium which rendered
the lighting inoperable.
Then, thanks to assistance from Tri-County
Electric, the lights came
VERNOIS NEWS photo/ MV yearbook staff
on and the Rams went on
to win 6 out of their last 7 Khaos Corner made the move to the stage but the atmosphere was the same, as
games, and found them- they had plenty to cheer for this basketball season and reminded us all that high
school sporting events are meant for students to have fun and be able to show
selves in the playoffs for their school spirit and pride.
the third straight year.
Along the way, Joel Rush
tion was quickly answered as the team remade history, becoming the all-time leading
mained in contention for the South Seven
rusher at MV.
title for most of the season. The real story
In the other form of football, MV got to
was the team‟s post-season play; the Rams
watch the best soccer season ever, including
won the Marion Regional which included a
a trip to the regional championship game.
win over conference rival Centralia. HowRyan Quick led the way breaking the record
ever, the Rams didn‟t stop there, they
for goals scored in a single season.
moved on to Centralia and won the Sectional
Cross Country didn‟t end their season
Championship and found themselves dancing
the way they had hoped, but still had a good
on into the Elite 8. The Rams great run was
year. The boys team found themselves
ended in the Super-Sectional game against
ranked in the state and the girls sent Margo
Champaign Central, but nonetheless the
Richardson to state where she finished 3rd,
tradition of basketball in MV was once again
the best finish by a MV runner ever.
prominent. The season ended on a little
After a few down seasons, the MV golf
sadder note though, as head coach Doug
team finished 2nd in the South Seven conferCreel resigned after 13 years with the Rams.
ence, but was unable to send anyone to
Coach Creel finished second on the all-time
state.
wins list at MV and will go down as one of
MV winter sports teams definitely werethe greatest basketball coaches in MV hisn‟t affected by the cold. The girl‟s varsity
tory.
basketball team made it to the regional
Khaos Corner made the move to the
championship game, and junior Mariah Flemstage and has become Khaos Cage. They
ing has already scored over 1,000 points in
brought back the tradition of standing, yellher varsity basketball career.
ing, and dressing up. They even got to the
This year also ushered in the birth of
take the ever allusive MV flag for a spin.
MV‟s first ever bowling team, giving MV anThe rowdiness was reborn, and no matter
other sport to cheer for. It wasn‟t a specwhere the students are located, they will be
tacular season for MV bowlers, but it was a
heard.
great inaugural season and MV bowling can
Antonio Moore represented MV in the
only get better.
Special Olympics in China. Antonio didn‟t
The MV wrestlers‟ had a solid season.
come home empty handed, as he came back
Senior Jacob Lemons started 11-0 and won
with some hardware around his neck. Antothe Springfield Tournament once again,
nio placed second in two events and brought
making him the first person to do that. Senhome a 5th place ribbon. Antonio repreior Jordan Echols also had a standout year
sented MV with pride and made all of MVTHS
very proud.
The MV cheerleaders also brought some
hardware back as the received a first place
finish at State. MV has been known for its
solid cheerleading program, and this year‟s
state championship team helped to solidify
MV as a powerhouse cheerleading program.
The cheerleaders work hard to support our
athletics teams so congratulations on succeeding in your sport. The JV team also did
well at state placing third in their division.
Now as the weather warms up, MV‟s
spring sports have begun.
MV baseball has gotten off to a decent
start. Playing their second season at beautiful Brennan Klein Field, they will look to be
a contender in the race for a South Seven
conference title.
The boy‟s tennis team is off to a 7-0
start and looking to win their second straight
South Seven title. Senior Coyn Mateer leads
the way for the Rams as his storied tennis
career continues at MV.
Lady Rams softball has gotten off to a
fast start. The Rams are a young team
which bodes well for the future of the Rams.
They should be right there when it comes
time for post-season play.
Boys track is performing well as usual.
The record books are still intact, but this
could change anytime as the boys track
team looks to be a state contender.
On the girls side a record has already
been broken. Senior Shelby Campbell broke
her own discus record of 122‟ 10” with a
toss of 124‟ 11 ½” putting her name in the
MV record books once again. The track
team as a whole is performing well so far in
the season. We can look forward to seeing
some relay teams performing at the state
level.
Lady Rams soccer is looking to have a
year like the boys. Led by a talented class
of seniors the Lady Rams are off to a good
start. Mallory Johnston and Ansley Murphy
have already decided their post high school
plans and will continue their soccer career
at Kaskaskia College. The Lady Rams will
look to be fighting for first place in the
South Seven conference.
The Spring Special Olympic games are
preparing to fire up on May 2nd. Athletes
from all over will be competing at our very
own high school including our own athletes.
If you get some extra time go over and
check out these truly inspiring athletes as
they show off their abilities.
Even though this school year has been
filled with riots, many changes and a lot of
drama, it is nice to see that through all the
hard times MV sports have continued to
bring pride and respect to our city and our
school.
Page 26, Sports
VERNOIS NEWS
Mateer, Williams offer “Kent Williams” award
By Coyn Mateer & Josh Williams
VERNOIS NEWS
The Mt. Vernon Rams basketball team finished up the regular season with a 14-11
record, and made it to the Elite 8 for the
first time since the 99 season led by Kent
Williams.
E.J. Randolph was this year‟s “Kent Williams” receiving IBCA 3A-4A third team All
State honors and receiving the South 7 Conference MVP award.
Randolph, described as “a hard nose
player, with a great attitude, sportsmanship
and heart,” by Brandon McCoy ‟09, has
started for the Rams the past three seasons.
“Randolph had more heart for the game
than I have seen in anyone for quite a while
to come through Changnon” stated Ross
Rubenacker, ‟08.
Randolph lead the team with 19 points,
5 rebounds and 3.5 assists per game in the
year‟s season.
Truvaunty badger also a senior for the
Rams lead the team in 3 point shooting and
will be sorely missed.
“T had a great year, he can shoot the
ball, but that isn‟t all he did for the team.
He was a leader in games and practice,”
proclaimed Randolph.
All in all it was the combined effort that
got us to the elite 8 between our team
come back to lead the rams in the fourth
which E.J. stated was key and the 6th man
quarter by 4 with under 3 minutes remainin our fans
ing. The Rams would
which
also
come back to win by 1
had a good
at the buzzer deturnout
this
scribed by Caleb Cross
season.
as “epic”.
W h e n
“It was one of the
people around
best games I‟ve ever
campus were
been a part of, being
asked
what
in The Cage and all!
the greatest
All the fans were going
part of the
bonkers as the Rams
s e a s o n
pulled out a victory to
(besides maktake home the reing the Elite
gional championship,”
8)
many
remarked
Ross
stated it was
Rubenacker ‟08.
beating CenThe Rams Cindertralia in the
ella story is now over
regional finals
and MV has calmed
VERNOIS NEWS photo/www.google.com down a bit from all
located
at
Marion
High E.J. Randolph battles through four Marion defenders as he
the hype, but I will
School. How- drives to the basket. Randolph was a leader for the Rams
always remember my
ever it was and was a big part of the Rams excellent season.
senior year when our
not easy by
rams went to the elite
any means.
8.
The Orphans whom beat the rams in
“The boys played hard and they never
both regular season matchups may have
quit, I couldn‟t have been more proud of
came out overconfident as they fell behind
this team,” stated Doug Creel head basketstarting the first half down by 12, but would
ball coach for the Rams.
Rubenacker tackles pro sports vs. college sports debate
By Ross Rubenacker
VERNOIS NEWS
What is more exciting than watching the
NCAA March Madness tournament? Maybe the
NBA finals? The World Cup? What does MV
think about college sports versus professional sports?
According to wikipedia.org, the National
Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) is a
voluntary organization through which the
nation's colleges and universities govern
their athletics programs. It is comprised of
institutions, conferences, organizations and
individuals committed to the best interests,
education and athletics participation of student-athletes. The first game, which was
football, was played all the way back in
1869, one-hundred thirty-nine years ago.
Professional sports differ from collegiate due to the compensation athletes receive for their performance. The professional baseball in the 1920‟s made very little
money, a few thousand dollars at the most,
and had an off-season job such as selling
cars or insurance according to WikiAnswers.com. The oldest professional sport is
baseball, where the first game was played
on May 4, 1871, according to rotosheet.org.
Between the two levels of athletics,
the main difference is the compensation
received at the professional level, while
college players strive to get there. Should
college players receive payment for their
play?
“Yeah, why not? They do the same job
as professional athletes,” stated Joel Harrison, ‟09.
Mike Greenwalt ‟08 disagreed, “No,
their sources of payments come through
scholarships, and that‟s a lot of money.”
Besides the surrounding differences of
the two levels, obviously the professional
athletes have a tremendous amount of talent, while the college level is a step or two
below.
“Professionals are the best of the best
at what they do,” said Matt Kramer, ‟08.
But which is more exciting? Watching a
game of professional athletes doing their job
or watching college kids play to reach the
level of getting paid to do what they love?
Peter Walker ‟10 claimed, “College [is
more exciting], because they are just out
there to give it their all and professionals
are just playing for the money.”
“College [is more exciting], because
they aren‟t paid to play,” agrees Bryce Kujawa ‟09.
Ms. Sara Smith, Social Worker, enjoys
both college and professional sports.
“College basketball is a closer look at real
talent, not just a show,” declared Smith.
“Professional baseball [is my favorite]. I
grew up going to see the Cards at the old
Busch Stadium and have some great memories from it,” added Ms. Smith.
Kyle Lamichhane ‟09 summed up by
saying college sports rule, while Harrison
agreed saying professional sports are corn!
The average NFL
player makes 1.4
million dollars a year,
the average MLB
player makes 3 million
dollars a year.
VERNOIS NEWS
Sports, Page 27
MV baseball prepares for post-season Lady Rams softball
By Ross Rubenacker
Kayla Reeves
VERNOIS NEWS
With the 2008 school year coming close
to an end, comes the end to the MV
men‟s baseball season.
Entering the season, coach Mr. Tim
Holloway said, “Our coaching staff felt
good about this years group of guys because we know they would work hard, be
competitive, and do things right. That is
all we can ask for as coaches. If you do
those things, the wins and loses take care
of themselves.”
The varsity Rams are currently 4-1 in
the conference. What will help them finish strong down the stretch and carry
momentum into post-season play?
“We are pleased with our progress to
this point. However, the moment we get
satisfied is the moment we take a step
back. For our team to improve throughout the season, we have to continue to
have fun, never get satisfied, and try to
improve every day,” explains coach Holloway.
The post season is right around the
corner, and the Rams are using the remainder of the regular season to fine
tune their weaknesses, to lead them to
post-season success.
“The keys to post-season play for our
team are to continue to limit our free
bases given up, stay loose, stay aggressive, and to keep improving during the
regular season,” added Holloway.
Good luck to the baseball team as
they keep preparing for the post-season
run of success.
Athletes prepare
for Special
Olympics
Lady Rams soccer looks
to build on last season
By Hope Bialik
Spring weather is right the corner and so is
a fresh new season for the Lady Rams soccer team. With the weather becoming
nice, the girls plan to play in their first
tournament at Centralia on March 15,
2008.
Coach Steve Harrison exclaimed that
the girls had a shaky start with the rainy
weather, earlier but now they are back
outside and ready to roll.
“Now since the weather is beginning
to get nice, it‟s going great. Before we
were in the gym cramped in there,” added
Ansley Murphy,‟08.
The team is looking to do better than
last year. They plan to win more then
they lose and hope to go as far of the boys
did.
The girls are very competitive in their
league and hopefully it will show through
in their season added Harrison.
Murphy made the comment that she
wants to do better than last year.
The team isn‟t too much different from
last year. Most of the girls returned and a
lot of freshman tried out.
“We are missing Jaclyn Quick, our
goalie from last year, and Carter Scarborough has stepped up as a freshman,” commented Harrison.
There is always something awesome
about a team.
“The girls are easy to work with and
willing to try. They get after it and understand,” said Harrison.
VERNOIS NEWS
The Special Olympics will be held on Friday May 2, 2008 at MV. It will have your
typical track and field events. These are
the 100‟s, 200‟s, 400 and mile races.
Also, wheel chair and walking races events
will be held.
“There are around nineteen students
who are practicing in the Special Olympics,” commented Mrs. Melissa Cockburn.
According to Mrs. Cockburn, students
started training eight weeks before the
spring games. Each student chooses what
events each student wants to do.
There are special athletic trainers for
the Special Olympics.
“On campus here we have certified
coaches, Mrs. Cockburn, Mrs. Megan Clodi,
and Mrs. Lee Ann Ferguson. Also, we have
classroom teachers who volunteers, Mrs.
Debbie Backes, Mrs. Nancy Bequette, Mrs.
Mary Beth Mezo,” remarked Mrs. Cockburn.
The highest level a student can get in
the Special Olympics is teen U.S.A, which
Antonio Moore was in last year. He will be
competing in a field event and running
event this year.
Many MV students volunteer to work at
the Special Olympics. “We have approximately eighty-eight volunteers this year.
Volunteers had to go to a sign up meeting
after school in order to volunteer,” replied Mrs. Cockburn.
By Lauren Zedalis & Kayla Reeves
VERNOIS NEWS
have high expectations
By Natasha Kennedy
VERNOIS NEWS
Currently 10-4 varsity girl‟s softball is hitting it off
on a good start for their season. They also went 11 in the conference. Their last game of the season
is scheduled for 5/17 against Highland.
“We have a very talented group of girls this
year,” stated Ms. Mandy Payne, assistant coach.
Each game they see improvements in the girls.
Whether it‟s executing the plays or coming together as a team. Tosha Ellis,‟08, proclaims “the
team bond is pretty strong when a person is down
were all there to pick them up.”
Seniors Tosha Ellis, Josee Redpath and Autumn
Burton, are all considered excellent leaders of
their team. They help coach and guide the underclassmen on their team.
“At some point during the game we have seven
underclassmen on the field, we hope we can prepare them so in a couple of years they‟ll be one of
the top teams in the area,” considered Ms. Payne.
“We‟ve got a lot of things to work on, but I‟m
not disappointed in their effort. We play hard. We
put out a great effort,” commented Steve Morris,
head coach.
Be sure to go out and support all
the spring sports teams as they
continue their seasons!
Men’s track off to a good
start
By Jordan Echols & Greg Brown
VERNOIS NEWS
The Men‟s track team started the 2008 season at
SIUC. MV‟s junior Sean Wiegel coming home with a
second place finish in shot put. The team has now
finished their indoor season and now they are ready
to work as hard as they can for their outdoor season.
There are under classmen stepping up to the
plate to help the nine senior‟s fulfill the season to
the max. “The track team has a few freshmen
running for varsity that are pretty quick,” said
Coach Clint Turner.
How does this year‟s season compare to last
year‟s? “I think we have better chemistry than last
year, everyone is fresh,” said Dontrell Black ‟08.
Coach Turner also says that the team is fast
this year and that they have lots of speed.
Does the track team have a shot at winning the
South Seven conference? Black said yes, because
they have very good long distance runners.
Coach Turner also added that the team has a
chance, but they have to get ready for it and work
hard for what they want.
VERNOIS SPORTS
Volume 86, Issue 8
GO RAMS AND LADY RAMS!
April/May 2008
Eric’s Sports Corner
Lyday says
farewell to MVTHS
By Eric Lyday
SPORTS EDITOR
As my senior year comes to a close, it is
hard to believe that my four years at MV
is almost over. You often hear how
much students hate attending MV and
how they can‟t wait to get out here.
Well I was one of those students at
one time, but now that the end is here I
will truly miss my high school days.
My four years at MV has had its
share of ups and downs, good memories
and bad memories and some very interesting events.
The class of „08 got to witness the
fire in G building, the death and resurrection of Khoas Corner, the infamous
“Riots of 2007,” a undefeated football
team and last but not least a crazed
swarm of Honey Bees.
These are all events that will never
be forgotten by me and will make good
stories to tell someday.
Sports are another thing that is
close to my heart and MV has given me
plenty of athletic memories.
High school athletics are a way to
meet new people and make friends, and
if nothing else give you something to do
after school.
I have partaken in five different
sports at MV, ranging from football to
bowling. I will never forget hurting my
knee in freshman football, or playing
competitive soccer for the first time
ever, and probably my favorite being on
the first ever MV bowling team.
Continued on page 24
2008 MV men’s tennis team
Front row: from left Manager Chelsea Cross, Connor Burge, Colten Burge, Tyler Knox, Mike “Big
Game” Greenwalt, Anthony Hallam, Darwin Walters, Shaelynn Tice
Back row: from left Head Coach Dave Junkins, Blake Jennings, Peter Walker, Andre Froehling,
Skylar Marlow, Coyn Mateer, Blake Flota, Trevor Houser
MV men’s tennis team looks to repeat as
South 7 Champs
By Mike “Big Game” Greenwalt
VERNOIS NEWS
MV men‟s tennis returned to the courts as coSouth 7 champions, starting off hot with an
undefeated 7-0 record. With returning singles
varsity members, Coyn Mateer, Peter Walker,
Blake Jennings, Anthony Hallam, Mike
Greenwalt, and Skylar Marlow, the team is
ready to repeat 2007 results.
This year is going to be big for the MV tennis team. All returning varsity players are
back, including tennis all star Coyn Mateer,
who ended last season on a 22 game winning
streak.
“This year we‟ll be better, because we
didn‟t lose any varsity players from last year.
Our experience will be our biggest strength,”
expressed number three varsity player Blake
Jennings,‟09.
With all the experience coming into this
year, what has been done and how have the
practices prepared the team for this season?
“So far they have been pretty good, we try
and get our work done and make it fun. We
are a good competitive group that pushes each
other to get better,” announced head coach
Dave Junkins.
“In the offseason we really worked on our
ground strokes, volleys, and most of all getting
our serves in,” explained Walker.
“Definitely practicing in the offseason and
working on our conditioning has helped us the
most,” added Jennings.
This year it‟s going to be tough if MV wants
to be South 7 Champions. With Belleville, Carbondale, and Marion being the toughest contenders of the conference, MV will have to
grind it out until victory is theirs.
“This year we need our doubles teams to
pull through for us against these tough South 7
teams,” quipped Jennings.
Coyn Mateer,‟08 summed up, “We have an
experienced and confident squad coming into
this year and as long as everyone stays focused
and works hard we can take home the South 7
championship, and hopefully take some kids up