2012_Vernois News - Mount Vernon Township High School

VERNOIS NEWS
Volume 90 - Issue 6
VERNOIS NEWS CELEBRATES THE CLASS OF 2015
January 2012
Freshmen lunch offers benefits, problems
VERNOIS NEWS photo/Paisley Stewart
FRESHMEN LUNCH: For three years, Freshmen Academy has been a huge part...p.3
To Inform,
Educate,
Enlighten
and
Entertain
“Superintendent” sounds
like an important…p.2
On December
31, 2011, a
massive
crowd...p.8
1090739
words, 3363
pages, 199
chapter...p.10
The Red Hot
Chili Peppers,
one of the
greatest...p.16
Page 2, News BEAT
VERNOIS NEWS
VERNOIS NEWS is a free monthly
publication produced by students and staff of
Mount Vernon Township High School.
HOW TO REACH THE VERNOIS
PUBLICATIONS OFFICE
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
Dr. Michael E. Smith, Superintendent
Mr. Wes Olson, Principal
Ms. Joyce Dalton, Assistant Principal
Ms. Julie Holmes, Assistant Principal
Mr. Rob Knutson, Assistant Principal
Mr. Doug Creel, Assistant Principal/Athletic
Director
Mr. Rob Pipher, Director of Curriculum
Mrs. Shirilyn Holt, Board Secretary
Mrs. Angela Brentlinger, Business Manager
VERNOIS NEWS Management
Hannah Piercy, Editor in Chief
Paisley Stewart, Managing Editor
Jessi Clark, News Editor
Michael Jones, A&E Editor
Maggie Aaron, Opinions Editor
Collin Young, Sports Editor
Alyssa Burge, Staff
Rance Cummings, Staff
Shannon Docherty, Staff
Brendan Hill, Staff
Taylor Roberts, Staff
Makayla Smith, Staff
Trace Turner, Staff
Falyn VanDyke, Staff
Aryn Wiggins, Staff
Mr. Jamey VanZandt, Adviser
Mrs. Karen Hamilton, Print Shop Director
Nelson Crunk, Print Shop Co-Op Technician
Writing for Publication II: Period 4
Freshman Academy continues at MV
By Kaitlyn Boss
The third year of Freshman Academy Is underway at MV. This program benefits freshman students
in several ways and has to be very successful over the years.
“Freshman Academy is a perfect fit for our district where 13 different grade schools feed into
our high school,” explained Ms. Julie Holmes.
The freshman academy officers are in charge of organizing events and competitions for the
freshman students at MV.
“This year we have had contests each week for the best attendance. The team that wins gets
to go to lunch 5 minutes early on Thursday,” mentioned Mrs. Tammy Hendricks. “Team S has won
five weeks out of the ten we have had.”
These officers are also in charge of the monthly Ram O Gram, Federal grant reporting, general
help for freshman and the Family Partnership Association.
“We are currently working on an Academy mission statement, a handbook and end of the year
activities,” claimed Holmes.
The benefits of Freshman Academy steadily increase each year.
“Compared to previous years we have seen a steady increase in regard to attendance, tardiness, discipline and grades,” expressed Holmes. “Currently, freshmen have the highest attendance rate.”
What our superintendent really does
By Taylor Roberts
Continued from page 1
position with in a school. But what do superintendents really do?
“The job of a superintendent is to daily review and evaluate the school’s financial condition,
approve purchases, personnel management, engage in improvement planning, monitor progress
toward district goals, and act as the direct liaison between activities of the district and the Board
of Education and community,” stated Dr. Mike Smith, Superintendent.
The superintendent covers many areas of responsibility in the school. And what does the administrative assistant do?
Mrs. Shirilyn Holt stated “Maintain attendance records on teachers and staff, act as local election authority for all school like a lot of different jobs to do, but these are only a few of her responsibilities.
Both Smith and Holt thoroughly enjoy their jobs. But they enjoy them for different reasons.
“I enjoy the ability to work with other administrators, teachers, staff, students, and community to establish and maintain a quality high school program. Also, I enjoy seeing recognizable
progress being made by students and teachers,” commented Dr. Smith.
Though Dr. Smith cherishes his job because of the progress being made, Mrs. Holt enjoys the
excitement involved in her job.
“I enjoy coming to work each day and enjoy working with Dr. Smith. There is never a dull moment at this job,” added Mrs. Holt.
Attendance Office welcomes new semester
By Makayla Smith
It serves as a hawk eyes and central point for the school. Led by Ms. Joyce Dalton, it punishes
Avery Barton, Kaitlyn Boss, Ashton Boyer, wrong doings and knows where students are.
The Attendance Office oversees school areas like discipline, PBIS, and of course, attendance
Shelbi Clark, Rance Cummings, Brendan Hill,
Katrina Ledbetter, Samantha Marshall, Kristen
The office is your go-to if you have mess up attendance, or you’re in trouble.
Minor, Joshua Myers, Trace Turner Janisa
“The class with the highest attendance will have a hop at the end of January. Ninety five perQuinn, Taylor Roberts, Makayla Smith, Falyn cent is the minimum requirement.,” explained Ms. Dalton.
VanDyke
This semester, the Attendance Office hopes for great behavior, great attendance, and great
test scores.
They also want to make sure students know they need documentation and approval by the
Assistant Principle and the Attendance Office for all family emergency calls.
The attendance office staff consist of; Ms. Joyce Dalton, Ms. Nancy Deaton, Mrs. Jan Neibert,
Mrs. Tricia Reeves, and Mrs. Laura Simmons.
For anyone who doesn't know which office is the Attendance office then you can find it in the
lobby of H room 127.
VERNOIS NEWS
By Hannah Piercy
News
EDITOR IN CHIEF
Continued from page 1
of MV. The freshmen class is separated into four teams, R, A, M, S,
where students share their core classes with their fellow teammates.
Select teachers teach the freshmen classes and assist students in
the transition from grade school to high school. Through Freshmen
Academy, students are able to experience the freedom of high
school, with the support of core teachers and their fellow teammates.
A unique aspect of Freshmen Academy is the separate freshman
lunch. The freshmen eat lunch at 12:30, after the upperclassmen, in
the cafeteria. All freshmen are required to stay on campus for their
closed-campus lunch.
“I don‟t personally like the separate freshmen lunch because I
can‟t be with all my friends,” explained Ashley Henry, 15‟.
Although freshmen don‟t have the freedom to leave campus dur-
Sweetheart stirs up student
excitement
By Kaitlyn Boss
VERNOIS NEWS
Have you started thinking of who
you will ask? How you will ask?
If not, now us the time to
start planning for the 2012
Sweetheart Dance at MV.
This year‟s dance will be held
on February 18 from 8 pm to 11
pm in Changnon Gym. The
theme is “Alice in Wonderland.”
“The theme was chosen by a
majority vote of Hi-Tri members
and it offers so much opportunity for fun,” Mrs. Carol Hutchison
explained.
Students can use their imaginations and come dressed as
characters from Alice in Wonderland.
“Everyone should want to go
to the dance to hang out with
their friends, dance their hearts
out, and just have fun!” Natalie
Hensley, „15, exclaimed.
Students can purchase tickets
for the dance starting February 6
to February 10. Tickets will be
sold before and after school in
the library.
“This year, everyone should
at least plan on going to Sweetheart. It‟s super fun, and seniors...it‟s one of our last dances,” Bethany Allen, „12, expressed,
The members of Hi-Tri have
been working hard since before
Christmas break in order to
make this year‟s dance as successful as possible.
“I‟m really excited for the
dance. It‟s really good bonding
time for me and the other girls,”
Allen stated. “It‟s the biggest
project that Hi-Tri does.”
Freshman Hi-Tri members get
to experience being a part of the
Sweetheart Dance preparations
for the first time.
Hensley commented, “So far
I like it a lot. It‟s really cool to
get to know different girls who I
normally wouldn‟t see due to
different schedules.”
There are also other events
set up by Hi-Tri members
planned to happen before the
dance.
“Hi-Tri Council members
have decided to have a „Twisted
Tea Party‟ prior to the dance,”
Hutchison explained. “Students
who purchase dance tickets will
receive an invitation to the tea
party with more information at
that time.”
MV students may also begin
voting for class kings and queens
starting early February.
The winners will be crowned
at the dance.
News, Page 3
ing lunch, Alex O‟Neal, 15‟, believes the separate freshman lunch is
a quick way to make friends.
Henry also added, “It‟s an opportunity to get to know other
freshmen.”
With our high school having such a small cafeteria, it is impossible for all of our freshmen to fit, therefore, teachers open the
lounge for students to eat and allow students to go outdoors when
they are finished.
“I spend my lunch time in the cafeteria with my friends that I
went to grade school with,” stated Kayley Scott „15.
Even though a closed campus may not be an ideal lunch for freshmen, there are still some aspects that they‟ll miss about their separate lunch.
Scott expressed, “What I‟ll miss most about freshmen lunch, is
the time. I heard from upperclassmen that they always have to rush
if they go off campus. However, I am very excited that I‟ll get the
opportunity to go off campus with my upperclassmen friends next
year.”
Freshmen Spotlight
Sam Storment
Do you play any sports?
Yes, I play baseball.
What do you like most about freshman year?
What I like most is finally having classes with my friends from other
schools.
What is your favorite class and why?
My favorite class is world geography because I have friends in that class.
I am interested in that class, and Gamber is a pretty good teacher.
Have you made any new friends? Are you still friends will other students from grade school?
I have made many new friends during high school, and I am still friends
with some of my grade school friends.
Do you enjoy Freshman Academy?
I do not enjoy Freshman Academy. Eating the same lunch in the cramped
cafeteria every day gets very old.
What extracurricular activities do you participate in, or wish to participate in?
I currently only do baseball, but next year I am doing baseball, soccer,
and Student Council.
Has your personality changed since you have gotten into high school?
My personality has changed little since I‟ve gotten into high school. I am
a little less shy, but I still need to break out of my shell.
What do you like better about high school than grade school?
I like how we get more freedom at lunch and we also get to see friends
from other schools that we never got to see before.
Is there anything you want to accomplish in your four years of high
school?
I want to go to state in baseball and become valedictorian.
VERNOIS NEWS … HAVE YOU READ IT?
Page 4, Feature
Feature
VERNOIS NEWS
MV students adjust to new semester
By Taylor Roberts
VERNOIS STAFF
On January 3, MV students started second semester with fresh minds
kicking off the new year.
How are students coping with the new schedule?
“I like change. I am always up for something different,” explained Makenzie Goodheart, „15.
Other people don‟t enjoy changing things at all. Some like sticking to a routine.
“I feel change can cause stress more often than excitement,”
added Jake Morgan, „12.
Everyone has a different opinion on why they like one semester
over the other one.
“I like all of my hard classes being at the end of the day,” stated
Haley Myers, „14.
Others like the social side of their schedules.
“I love having classes with my boyfriend!” exclaimed Goodheart.
When one thinks about their daily schedules, most look forward
to their favorite class. One often wonders what interesting things
they will encounter in that certain class.
“My favorite class is 3D Drawing/Animation with Hatfield. I have
NYC celebrates New Year’s Eve
By Shelbi Clark
VERNOIS NEWS
Continued from page 1
of excited individuals gathered
in Times Square in Manhattan,
New York.
New Year‟s Eve is one of New
York City‟s largest celebrations.
What did MV students do to
begin a new year?
“My family and I watched the
ball drop on television. We have
watched it every year since I
was born,” stated Kristin Wetzel, „12.
Some would rather a more
local celebration.
“I think Mt. Vernon should
throw a huge celebration in
front of the Times Square Mall
and have local bands play. It
would be our version of Times
Square in Manhattan,” expressed
Wetzel.
Quite a few people believe
that New York goes a little overboard on the lights, confetti,
music, performances, and decorations, but others beg to differ.
“They go all out because
they are excited, [and] they
should be,” explained Cheyenne
Youngblood, „12.
Some are content with celebrating at home, but having the
choice of celebrating with anyone in the world can be an interesting thought.
“I think hanging out with
anyone who preforms at Times
Square would be really amazing,” claimed Jenna Covalt, „12.
“[But] if I had to choose, I would
have thrown a huge celebration
with my friends. That would be
my ideal celebration.”
“I would [like to] go to South
Carolina and spend the first of
the new year on the beach. That
would be the best [way] in my
opinion,” expressed Youngblood.
The New Year‟s Eve ball is a
New York tradition that has
been around since 1907.
The bustling energy has increased ever since then, and it
doesn‟t any signs of slowing
down.
“It‟s crazy how after all of
these...New Year‟s Eve in New
York celebrations, every year
the city manages to make it bigger and better,” commented
Youngblood.
always been fascinated by designing 3D models for games,” confided
Morgan.
While quite a few students are intrigued by design and architectural classes, some are interested in social studies classes.
“World history was my favorite,” Myers admitted.
But how do MV students select their favorite class? What makes
that class better than the rest?
“I pick the class that I look forward to going to everyday,” stated
Goodheart.
“The one that interests me the most usually wins the vote,” commented Morgan.
Though everyone has a favorite class, everyone is required to
attend all the classes on his or her schedule.
Overall, do MV students think that the schedule changes are a
good idea, or simply a hassle?
“I think schedules should change, but only slightly. Students often become confused and stressed during change, so changes should
only be made when necessary,” commented Morgan.
“Once you get used to your schedule, it changes,” complained
Goodheart.
Myers added, “I do think it should change because you get tired
of doing the same thing.”
High school students keep
Christian faith
By Kirsten Minor
VERNOIS NEWS
High school can be a tough place.
Students are confronted every
day by peer pressure and bad
influences.
High school can be a constant
competition for popularity.
How do Christian students
keep their faith with all of the
chaos at school?
A lot of students find it hard
to be a good, true Christian in
high school.
“With all of my peers, pressures and such, it does get really
hard to be a good Christian,”
stated Devon Riley, „12.
Many Christian students feel
like they can‟t talk about their
faith at school because they‟ll get
made fun of or their friends might
think less of them.
Others don‟t care that they
may be judged for it; they spread
God‟s word with no shame or fear
at all.
“I talk about Jesus all of the
time. I talk [about him] with my
non-Christian friends way more
than fellow Christians. It makes
for an interesting conversation,”
stated Kelsey Richardson, „12.
Some teenagers are ashamed
to share their faith and sometimes hide it .
But not Sadie Schnautz, „14,
who explained, “I want people to
respect me for my faith. God isn‟t
something to be shy about.”
Peer pressure normally affects
teenagers the most because they
want acceptance.
So, they do things out of the
regular to make others like them.
“I do mean things when I‟m
with my friends sometimes. Once
I put a bunch of sticky notes all
over Ashton Boyer‟s car. It‟s not
something I‟d do by myself. My
friends encouraged me to do it,”
mentioned Riley.
Some Christians are called
names like “Goody-2-Shoes” or
“idiotic” for believing in a God
that isn‟t visible.
Despite all of the name calling
and judgment of Christians, so
many continue to proclaim their
love for God.
Why?
For some, their faith in God is
too strong to be changed by
words or pressure.
“I love God despite others‟
opinions because he loves us no
matter what…” thought David
Wininger, „15.
Feature, Page 5
VERNOIS NEWS
Senioritis affects some
By Falyn VanDyke
VERNOIS STAFF
Second semester offers many
different emotions for seniors.
Not only is it the end of their
high school career, but they
have to say good bye to lifelong
friends before they leave for
college.
In the last few months of the
year, senioritis starts to show.
Laziness sets in, students
begin to slack, and homework
gets ignored.
“When I was a junior I didn't
think it was going to be as bad as
everyone said, but it is,” commented Annalee Schuettee, „12.
Moving from junior to a senior students underestimate the
powers of the infamous senioritis.
“Senioritis has already started before senior year rolled
around,” mentioned Ariana Moffit, „12.
They‟ve differed from what
they were first semester.
“I knew I needed to keep my
grades up and make sure I hung
out with all my old friends before the year ended,” explained
Makayla Winkler, „12.
“I‟m more focused on finding
scholarships now. I spend time
Mary
Morgan ‘15
finding a college last semester,”
added Moffit, „12.
Students involved in sports
would even say that school work
comes second to sports, but even
sports have been moved from
top priority to last.
“With football season over,
I‟ve has more time to focus on
school work. Academics first,
athletics second,” stated Daniel
Morrison, „12.
For most students, one
wouldn't believe homework
would be a huge priority, but for
these seniors it is.
“I definitely set aside specific
nights just to study and do
homework assignments. It‟s
worked great so far,” noted Winkler, „12.
“I try to stay ahead of the
game and study in the little free
time I have,” claimed Schuettee,
„12.
Some students are even
lucky enough not to be too
phased by senioritis.
“I don't think I‟m struggling
with senioritis, to be honest. If
anything I‟d like to have another
year here. As much as everyone
says they hate Mt. Vernon and
the high school, it‟s my home.
I‟m going to miss it,” expressed
Morrison, „12.
Well, it‟s just like any other
school, just a lot more walking! It was a bit confusing at
the beginning of the year, but I
got t he hang of it after about
a week or two. The best part
of my day is always hanging
out and talking to my friends.
Freshmen begin driving
By Makayla Smith
VERNOIS STAFF
Their hearts pound, their sweaty
palms grip the steering wheel,
their minds race.
They‟re freshmen, and they
are driving for the first time.
For a lucky few, waiting has
been eliminated to start Driver‟s
Ed.
Learning they‟re going to be
getting behind the wheel as a
freshman can make butterflies
flutter in their stomachs.
“I was overjoyed!” Miriam
Hester, ‟15, exclaimed.
Karli Verheyen, ‟15, laughed,
“It makes me feel old.”
“I felt scared and excited at
the same time,” Dava Smith, ‟15,
declared.
For some MV freshmen, getting a permit will mean added
responsibilities.
“I‟ll be responsible for driving
to town and to church on the
weekends,” Hester noted.
Mallory McMahan, ‟15, added,
“I have to be careful, drive safe,
and not violate any of the rules
because I don‟t want to lose my
permit.”
Of course, before they get
behind the wheel, they have to
learn the basics.
“Currently in class we are
Mrs. Laura
Woods
Spanish
learning about laws for driving,
how to drive, and being safe
while diving,” explained Madalina
Overstreet, ‟15.
“The class is fun and getting
to drive is fun,” commented Verheyen.
McMahan added, “I love the
class and getting to drive makes
it that much better!”
There is an area that‟s
stressed heavily in Driver‟s Ed:
safety.
“I hope to become a safe driver,” Smith admitted.
But the freedom of driving
comes with a price. Starting January 1, Illinois enacted stricter
laws for teenage drivers.
Among the many changes are
things like curfews being shortened by an hour, teens will have
to keep a driving learner‟s permit
for nine months instead of three,
and teens with a graduated driver‟s license will have to drive
violation-free for six months by
the time they‟re eighteen before
they can become eligible for an
unrestricted license.
“Personally, I think no matter
how aggravating the laws may be
to other people, the laws are for
our benefit and it helps keep everyone safe,” Overstreet commented.
In my high school, there were
stricter rules about dress.
Even though our classrooms
were not air-conditioned, we
were not allowed to wear
shorts ever. We also could not
wear sweat pants. We had 2
or 3 security guards who patrolled the halls and stopped
students who were in the halls
during class time. We were
not allowed to wear coats or
carry backpacks to class.
Page 6, News
What’s
Jumpin’
Jessi?
By Jessi Clark
NEWS EDITOR
Prom Answers At
Last
Though it‟s only January, prom
is underway.
The junior prom committee
has been working hard to fundraise for the memorable night
we are all looking forward to.
Questions have been raised
as to where prom is located
this year and what is planned
for the night.
The theme of the 2012
prom is “A Night Under the
Stars.” The dance will be held
on April 28.
Prom will be a little different this year than it has been
in the previous years.
Instead of the Holiday Inn
Hotel, prom will be located on
42nd Street where the new
Logan Street Baptist Church is
to be being built.
Prom will be held under the
pavilion in a type of rental
tent. No, that does not mean it
will be outside.
The tent will be enclosed.
It will include windows, a
wooden dance floor, and heating/air conditioning.
The prom tent will have
plenty of room for coronation
and the dance itself. There
will be separate areas for both
events.
Bathrooms will be installed
for usage as well. As for parking, mandatory valet parking
will be available.
Juniors, you still have a
chance to be on prom committee. The next meeting is February 8 in Mrs. Tieffel‟s room,
208 H. Remember, it‟s your
prom too.
VERNOIS NEWS
GOP candidates vie for top spots
By Jessi Clark
VERNOIS NEWS
Newt Gingrich or Ron Paul? Mitt Romney or Rick
Santorum?
The final four candidates for the 2012 presidential election have been debating and campaigning
throughout the country.
These four are the only left out of the eleven
candidates for the Republican party.
There have been three chances these Republican
candidates to show voter enthusiasm. This includes
two primaries and one caucus.
The Iowa Caucus took place on January 3. According to www.usatoday.com, Rick Santorum stole
the lead with 24.6% of the votes. Mitt Romney
came in with a close second of 24.5%
Following the Iowa Caucus was the New Hamp-
shire Primary on January 10. Mitt Romney came in
first place with 39.3% of votes while Ron Paul
placed second with 22.9% votes.
Last but definitely not least, the South Carolina
Primary was on January 21. Newt Gingrich locked in
first place with 40.4% votes over Mitt Romney with
27.8% votes.
The voting session will take place in the Florida
primary on January 31.
As for the Democrat party candidate, the incumbent President Barack Obama will be running for his
second term.
President Obama spoke on January 24 in his
third State of the Union address.
Some say, that was the beginning on his campaign for his second term as president.
The 57th presidential election will be held on
Tuesday, November 6, 2012.
Student Council prepares for
midwinter coffeehouse
By Brendan Hill
VERNOIS STAFF
Coffeehouses have become a popular event at MV.
The midwinter coffeehouse will occur on February
15.
“The coffeehouse is a place where students can
come and eat, hang out, enjoy music, poetry,
sketches, and fun and exciting people,” stated Olivia
Ashby, „15.
Food is provided to all who come to coffeehouse.
“The MV Student Council usually prepares for the
coffeehouse by calling local food places such as Subway and Buffalo Wild Wings to donate food. Other
Student Council members provide the drinks and a
variety of other things like chips and cookies,” Ashby
added.
The coffeehouse is usually held in 119H.
“We bring chairs and couches into 119H so everyone can have a place to sit, hang out, and relax,”
Ashby explained.
The Student Council meets up in order to prepare
for the event.
“We have a committee for the coffeehouse and
they have meetings where they plan out the coffeehouse,” commented Trey Riley, „15.
The attendance to the coffeehouse has grown
since it has become popular.
“I‟m not really sure on the exact umer of students that attend, but at the last coffeehouse I think
we had over 100 people,” exclaimed Felicia Wagner, „15.
The coffeehouse is a place where students can
show off their talent.
“At the last coffeehouse I attended, I preformed
a song,” admitted Wagner.
Many people enjoy the coffeehouse.
“I didn‟t really know what the coffeehouse was
until I attended one and it was so much fun! There
was good food and a lot of great performances. I
plan on going to all of the future ones,” expressed
Shayln Koch, „15.
The coffeehouse is an opportunity for all MV students to come together and have a great time.
VERNOIS NEWS
Editorial
VERNOIS NEWS
A VERNOIS PUBLICATIONS GROUP Newspaper
Editorial Board:
Hannah Piercy, Editor in Chief
Paisley Stewart, Managing Editor
Mr. Jamey VanZandt, Adviser
Vernois Views
2012 Equals New Beginning
MV embarks on a new semester, a new year, and
new beginnings.
As 2012 continues into late January, we leave
2011 behind with only the good memories.
With the commencement of a new year, people
tend to reflect upon the past as well as considering
the future.
For most, resolutions mean giving up something,
but how about resolving to do something meaningful
instead.
The new year is a new start; set goals and accomplish the dreams you have.
Resolutions are seen as cliché, but they do not
have to be the traditional “I want to lose weight” or
“spend more time with friends”. Resolving to accomplish these are great, but go above and take the opportunity to make improvements to your life and
those around you.
2012 may just be another year, but it symbolizes so much more.
For freshmen, it is realizing they have survived
the first semester of high school. They are reassured
in their navigation and management of high school.
Sophomores can remember the time they have
spent so far at MV, realizing they have almost
reached the midway point of their secondary education, and observing how they have matured in these
past years.
More than ever, juniors shift their attention to
college and future endeavors. They are experiencing
what is known as the hardest year of their academic
lives and are preparing for what is to come.
As for seniors, they see the finish line. They
are almost at the conclusion of the race, and ready
to be. With the best part of their four years completed, they are prepared to make the most out of
these final months.
Vernois News encourages all MV students to
set new goals and expectations for the new year.
2012 can be anything you want it to be, so make the
most of this new year.
Editorial, Page 7
Staff Comment
on the
New Year
“This year I want to pass all of my classes
with an A or B … hopefully!”
-Falyn VanDyke
“This year I want to be healthier
and be as nice as I can to
other people.”
-Shannon Docherty
“I hope the new year brings great new memories,
friendships, and
experiences. I hope 2012 will continue to be an
awesome year.”
-Brendan Hill
“I like how a new year motivates
people to make better decisions.
Hopefully they will continue to make those
better decisions.”
-Makayla Smith
“I hope I can make the best of the little
time I have left here at MV and
to have no regrets.”
-Rance Cummings
“I want to get my head back on straight with my
goals and I also want
a stronger relationship
with God.”
-Michael Jones
“Take 2012 as an opportunity to find and create
yourself … after all that is what high school
is all about. Explore your taste and interest to rediscover your passion. Life is what you make it, so
begin with
making this year great.”
-Paisley Stewart
“My goal for 2012 is to be a better person
and nicer to everyone.”
-Collin Young
I graduated from MV in
1993. Everyone had to take
the semester exams, but if
we met the attendance requirements we got an extra
10 pts on it.
Mrs.
Mr. Ryan
Robinson
I went to a smaller high
school, so many things
were different. Often, the
upperclassmen befriended the freshmen.
Kiley
Docherty
In high school, girls
weren’t allowed to wear
slacks and guys
couldn’t wear jeans. Mrs.
“High school is just one baby
step into the life you will or have
planned to create. It holds all of
the challenges that turn into experiences, holds a tiny portion
of answers to your questions,
and gives you the freedom to
start to become someone great
or someone who wished to have
become even greater. High
school contains a spell that either changes you for better or
worse. It’s just up to you if you
decide to overcome that spell
by becoming great and looking
back at the baby steps you
learned to accomplish
into a steady walk.”
-Madalina
Overstreet
Debbie
Nelson
I see myself with good grades
and on a path to college … maybe even graduating early.
Catarina Bell
A Rockin’ Ram with good grades
preparing to become an adult and
live on my own.
Haley Lamke
I see myself taking advanced classes
or even some college courses if I get
all of my credits for high school.
Ashtyn Cornett
Get involved. Meet new
people. Study now.
Don’t be afraid to try
something new.
Mrs. Terry
Black
Don’t buy any elevator
tickets.
Mr. David
Kassner
Ms. Tami
Lovin
Stay in school. Work
hard. Try to learn as
much as you can. Get
involved in activities.
Have fun!
As a senior, I hope I’m involved in
everything and have good grades
to get into a good college. I want
my senior year to be something to
remember.
Shayln Koch
Hopefully, ranked in basketball
and on my way to a good college.
Bryce Hunter
I see myself as accomplished, because I
have set a goal to be in every Operetta
there is while I’m in high school.
Caleb Vaughn
I would like to get better grades,
become more social, and become
more independent.
Felicia Wagner
Getting a great education and
hopefully I’ll go to some great
college after that.
Become a bowling star or get
over my fear of speaking in front
of a crowd.
Danielle Venters
I want to figure out who I am and
what I want to do with the rest of
my life
Brooke Lacey
Davarr Davis
I would like to become more
involved, work hard, and try to
make a good future.
I will hopefully be captain of the
state-bound Mt. Vernon Rams football team
Autumn Long
Graham Henken
I’m a member of band, student
council, and I am one of the four
Ram mascots.
Samuel Simpson
I really never have free time because of basketball practice and
games.
Anthony Ross
I text my friends, hang out with
friends, spend time with the
family, and go to church.
Samantha Riddle
I joined the wrestling team, FFA,
and plan to try out for the tennis
team.
Dalton Barnes
I am in student council, FBLA, and
am in Tech Crew for our school
plays and productions.
Olivia Ashby
I am involved in basketball,
StuCo, Football, and baseball.
Dylan Reeves
Page 10, Columns
Columns
VERNOIS NEWS
Senioritis: downfall of senior year
Alis Volat
Propriis
By Hannah Piercy
EDITOR IN CHIEF
An epidemic that has plagued
America for years, continues to
affect lives all across the U.S.
The symptoms show up every
year. Seniors are overwhelmed
with extracurricular activities, jobs, scholarships,
and a social life. Homework is soon placed on the
back burner and isn’t thought about until it’s too
late.
The diagnosis? Senioritis.
Senioritis is easy to catch but it’s so hard to
shake.
Like every other year, a senior begins the
school year with goals of straight A’s and zero
tardies. Their energy level is at it’s peak: ready
to work, ready to change, and ready to be the
kings of the school. To our dismay, that superficial energy quickly
runs dry and the expectations for a senior become overwhelming.
Is too much expected from a high school senior?
I believe so. Senior year should be a time of transition from a
teenager to a young adult; however, it’s more of a chaotic change.
As a senior, I know the difficulties of keeping up with a job, my
extracurricular activities, church, grades, and family; it isn’t an easy
task.
We are expected to fill out scholarship applications, apply to the
right colleges, and chose a career all while keeping a straight “A”
report card. Unfortunately, with so many responsibilities, we lack the time to give one hundred
percent to all of our activities. We are the varsity players on our sports teams. We are the head
officers of our clubs. We are the leaders of this
school.
Not only is it our responsibility to promote our
high school and do our school work, but we must
plan for the rest of our lives.
The excitement that develops from an uncharted future often distracts us from the task at
hand; therefore we see another case of senioritis
flare.
It would behoove us to take control of senioritis and hold out for a little while longer. This is
it seniors! Let’s make it the best of the best!
We have 114 more days to be high school seniors. Although we
may feel overwhelmed, bored, and ready to leave, let’s hold on and
enjoy the ride together!
Is too much
expected from
a high school
senior?
Harry Potter proves beneficial to life
can get more sleep or catch up on our favorite T.V shows; reading
for pleasure is usually the first to go.
MANAGING
The extent of our reading becomes thirty-five minutes in EngEDITOR
lish class, latest Facebook statuses, or the small bits that are encompassed into homework.
1090739 words, 3363 pages, 199 chapters, 17 hours
This is a sad reality in my opinion.
and 14 minutes, 8 movies,
Engaging in literature is extremely
7 books, and 1 story.
beneficial.
For the past several
It is proven that reading, if even for a short
years our generation has
period of time a day, can drastically raise
embraced the magic that is Harry Potter.
ACT and state testing scores.
As a child I remember reading each
Not only does reading have academic
book, anxiously attending the movies, waitbenefits but social and personal as well.
ing in line at midnight to be in the first
The many wise words of Dumbledore
round of people who got to hold the newest
stick in my head as lessons.
addition to the series into my hand, and
“Its our choices, Harry, that show what
finally finishing the books with more than a
we truly are, far more than our abilities.”,
tinge of sadness.
“It does not do to dwell on dreams and forTheme parks have miles of land dediget to live”, and “It takes a great deal of
cated to it, teenagers carry around fake (I
bravery to stand up to your enemies, but a
mean “real”) wands, and it is not uncomVERNOIS NEWS graphic/http://nicegirlstv.com great deal more to stand up to your friends.”
mon to speak in Harry Potter lingo.
The iconic trio of Harry, Ron, and Hermione spend their
I am not saying to read Harry Potter, I
I personally follow the one and only time studying magic at Hogwarts. The actors brought to am saying however to read something.
life J.K Rowling's Novels.
Lord Voldermort on twitter.
Try a new genera if you have yet to
While this might seem like a lot of
find you literary interest.
fuss over something that is purely fiction I have never viewed as it as
Between horror, fantasy, sci-fi, realistic fiction, romance, and
that.
so many others out there, I promise there are novels for everyone.
You see, I am convinced that sometimes you have to escape
I found the magic of reading at a young age beginning at Numinto fantasy to know reality.
ber 4 Privet Drive and ending at Hogwarts; I hope everyone can find
As high schools we find ourselves immersed in a busy schedule
the magic and benefits of literature for themselves as well.
of school, work, and extracurricular, we cut out activities so that we
Ob-La-Di, Ob-La-Da
By Paisley Stewart
VERNOIS NEWS
Columns
Columns, Page 11
Boyer dares to dream
I Dare You to Move
By Ashton Boyer
VERNOIS NEWS
Dr. Laura Schlessinger once said, “When you dare to dream, dare to
follow that dream, dare to suffer through the pain, sacrifice, selfdoubts, and friction from the world.”
Remember when we were kids, when we used to constantly
dream?
We used to dream big, never thinking about the impossibility that
might stop us in our tracks.
Often we dreamed about things that lined up with our passions
and desires, things that we really enjoyed.
As we grew older, adults began to bring us down to so-called reality.
We were told it couldn't happen.
We were told we weren't good enough or that we weren't smart
enough.
That so-called reality dashed our hopes and dreams.
In the process, we began to live lives devoid of hope and began to
settle for average and status-quo.
We not only lost our dreams, but in the process, we forgot how to
dream.
What if one could do anything they wished?
Absolutely anything no matter how unrealistic it seemed.
What would you try to do?
What if we began to think that nothing was impossible and lived
life to the fullest?
What if we didn't try to put limits on ourselves or our ability to
learn something?
What if we begin to not feel failure?
How would life look differently?
For me, I want to make a difference in the world.
Me, a single person, I'm a nobody by the world’s standards.
But, I am starting to believe that I can make a difference.
I'm starting to believe that the world isn't as big as I thought it
was.
I'm starting to dare to do things I have never done before.
I'm beginning to take “impossible” our of my dictionary.
I’m daring to dream again.
A vision that calls you to action, that puts you in your unstoppable
state of defying every odd that’s against you.
The greatest leaders know only the standards set by their dreams
of what is truly possible, and the best time to start dreaming big is
now. No matter where you are in life, it is never too early to broaden
your vision of what's possible.
Big dreams are where it all starts, from your earliest dreams of
becoming an astronaut or a baseball player, to your dreams of going
to college, writing a book, or owning your dream car, if you do not
dream of it first, you will never actualize it isn't your life.
You see, no one in this world has ever created or accomplished
anything without first seeing it in their mind.
The greatest achievers in human history have been those with the
biggest and boldest goals and dreams.
Life as know it wouldn't be what it is today without those individuals.
But each of us can be one of those people who shape the destiny
of the world.
Though dreams, goals, and desires we have the power to create
something just as extraordinary as the greatest leaders in the world.
Through dreams, through imagination, the mission and vision will
come as soon as you release your perceived limitations and allow your
Making decisions changes lives
Brendan’s Breakdown
By Brendan Hill
VERNOIS NEWS
Decisions.
We make them every day.
Whether it’s a small as what you eat in the morning or something
as big as what you would like to do with
your life.
These decisions may be very difficult to
make sometimes.
As the New Year began I started to
think back on the previous year about how
many decisions I had to make.
Everyone makes millions and millions of
decisions throughout a year.
For students they make many decisions
in high school.
They make them in school everyday.
They make the decision on whether or
not they should take their schoolwork seriously or just get by.
High school is the time where most students start learning to make
most decisions.
It’s a time where they make the choice to be successful or not.
Will students get involved and stay on top of their work at school
or will they slack off and make bad choices?
It’s their decision.
Students always make decisions on what people they hang around.
Our friends have a big impact on us and we decide we want to be
friends.
This is a big decision that is made by teens as they enter high
school.
It was definitely a decision I had to make.
Friends influence our decisions we make.
They could help us to make the right
decision or turn us on the wrong path.
Dating and relationships are also major
choices that are made in life.
Who students want to be with is a big
decision made my students all the time.
Each of these decisions will lead to a
consequence.
We are always making decisions, so we
need to learn how to make responsible and
careful choices.
Sometimes we wonder whether we are
making the right choices.
There are times when we will make the
wrong decisions.
If we remain positive we will learn from these mistakes.
When a tough decision comes along, students should try to realize
how this choice will affect their life and if it is truly the right thing to
do.
“There are times we
will make the wrong
decision. If we remain
positive we will learn
from these mistakes.”
Page 12, Columns
VERNOIS NEWS
Smith shares saga of some new kittens
Our neighbors have been out of the house a lot for various reasons, so they hadn’t noticed that the kittens were gone yet. When
VERNOIS STAFF
they returned, we let them take the kittens back to their house,
since they were rightfully theirs.
No protection from mice. Little meows. Noises outside.
Then, the kittens were back on our porch. I think the neighbors
These can only mean one thing: our neighbor’s kittens have takfinally realized the kittens preferred life at my house.
en residence on my porch.
Our neighbors had to leave again with
I love kittens. Cats in general, really. So
house issues, so we watched over their kittens,
when the kittens showed up at our doorstep,
feeding and petting them.
my family was ready to feed them.
Then, they got in. So we let them stay in a
However, I don’t think we knew at the
while and out then put them out.
time they were our neighbor’s.
Then we let them stay inside longer, and
Our neighbor wanted the kittens to be
they started to cuddle with us. The kittens
mice eaters, so they didn’t feed them. But
would get on my lap and snuggle and climb me
they were really little and really young, so
until I gave them attention and petted them. I
they needed to be fed. They weren’t ready
didn’t mind, though. They’re adorable.
for mice chasing and eating.
And then, we named them. Their names
And once someone gives a cat some food,
are Maria and Marissa.
the cat knows where to go when he or she is
So I guess the kittens are kind of ours now.
hungry.
I think our neighbors realize the kittens are
So, of course, the two sister kittens stayed
VERNOIS NEWS photo/Makayla Smith attached to us, as we are to them.
on our porch. They enjoyed napping on the Smith displays her new kittens, Maria and MarisMaria and Marissa are currently outdoor kitrocking chairs.
sa. The kittens have grown to love the Smith
tens, but they come in every day. They’ve alBut my mom was adamant that we weren’t family.
ready learned to use the litter box, apparently.
about to let two more kittens stay in our
My mom may still give in and let them stay inhouse, since we already have three cats. We got two of our three
side all the time, but I have my doubts. I’m fine with the arrangeindoor cats in about the same way: they’re here, they’re kittens,
ment we have now, though.
they don’t have their momma nearby, and they’re adorable. Also,
And besides who can resist the crazy cuteness of their kitten
they need food.
faces?
Makayla’s Musings
By Makayla Smith
Roberts begins planning for future
But should people really push back looking at colleges? Even
though it seems far away now, it is going to be here sooner than
some think.
VERNOIS STAFF
The future is a mystery to everyone, no one is sure what will hapImagine handing a stack of college applications to a group of four- pen or what will stand in the way of how you plan for your future to
teen and fifteen year olds. These are the people whose biggest issue be. But, you should at least know what you want you r future to be
is who they are going to sit by at lunch.
like.
During the last month, some of the
I personally think that planning for
freshman classes have been trying to set
college can never come too early. Even
up a plan for the rest of their lives. The
though I still have three years, I want to
classes were instructed to write down
explore all of my options before it’s too
their goals for after high school. In some
late.
classes they even had to explain how
I do not want to be stuck in the sticky
they planned to accomplish these goals.
situation of trying to go see ten different
A lot of answers for the freshmen
colleges on opposite sides of the country
included, “I haven’t thought much about
all in one year.
college,” or maybe an answer such as, “I
The future is a big deal, it is when
have a hard time thinking about tomorwe, as high school students, will become
row's homework, and college doesn’t
adults and will be set on our way to be
really cross my mind”.
out on our own. It isn’t a joke and
Another common answer is “I think I
shouldn’t be taken very lightly.
will just stay here and go to Rend Lake”.
Allowing lots of time for planning
Personally, that is not my plan for after
such as a big event in our lives is a wonhigh school.
derful idea. I don’t want to go off to college not knowing what I
After I graduate, I want to go to college far away from here and
want to do with my life.
get used to the idea of living on my own. After high school, I want
So the question remains when is the right time to start planning
to be getting closer to being fully independent.
for life after high school? I think it is never too early to set goals and
When I tell people that I have already been on college tours, they start exploring what is out there and to have an idea of what the
look at me like I am a crazy person. In fact, I am only 15 years old
future could be.
and college is still about three and a half years away.
Taylor’s Tales
By Taylor Roberts
“I don’t want to go
off to college not
knowing what I
want to do with my
life.”
VERNOIS NEWS
Opinions
Aaron urges change
Mag’s Tags
By Maggie Aaron
OPINIONS EDITOR
Freedom of speech, freedom of
religion, freedom of press,
freedom of assembly and petition. There are the basic freedoms which all American citizens are guaranteed in the Bill of Rights.
However, just because these rights are
inherently given to us and are almost certainly never going to go away, does not mean
that we should abuse them.
Some people, especially around this campus, seem to think that freedom of speech
means that they can say whatever they want,
whenever they want, to whomever they
want, and that it is acceptable. What happened to common courtesy towards others,
and the cliché we all learned at a young age:
if you don’t have anything nice to say, don’t
say anything at all. While that expression is
simple enough for a younger audience to understand, the meaning should not be overlooked by those whose age exceeds what we
consider “young”.
The freedoms we have been given, were
given for a serious reason, no so that they can
be abused. Freedom of speech is a wonderful
thing and it allows us to be able to express
reasonable matters.
However, wasting our breath talking about
meaningless and immature matters such as
the disagreement between Mt. Vernon and
Woodlawn students does not seem like the
best use of the right. I’ve heard numerous
opinions about it, I’ve seen written insults
and empty threats and somehow, when James
Madison drafted the first ten amendments to
the Constitution, which later became the Bill
of Rights, I don’t think he had a pointless
rivalry between two small Illinois town in
mind.
I solution to that is up the maturity level,
don't dwell on pointless comments, and be all
-around kinder people.
Freedom of religion enable us to practice
whatever religion we so choose, without a
higher authority telling us we can’t. Therefore, I believe that making fun of other student’s religious backgrounds on campus infringes upon that right. Discrimination is
wrong in any form, but discrimination based
on beliefs it exactly what was trying to be
avoided when the right was created.
I ask, MV, that we stay away from that
cliché high school image of some students
being put down because they are different in
these beliefs.
On campus there are numerous instances
where our rights are tested, and when they
are abused. Compared to what was thought
of when those rights were drawn up, todays
citizen’s do not appreciate them and take
them for granted.
Minor favors warmer temps
Minor Meenes
By Kirsten Minor
VERNOIS STAFF
Winter is officially here. I’ve heard so many
people hope for snow.
However, I hate the cold. Along with hating
the cold, I also hate snow. I dread the days
when it snows.
Cold weather is miserable. I always have to
be bundled up in a bunch of layers of clothing
and I end up looking like a marshmallow. It
very uncomfortable.
I hate having to wear a massive amount of
clothing, I feel that most comfortable in a
short sleeve shirt and some pants.
Beside having to bundle up, there is shivering.
I don’t really enjoy when my body feels
like its having mini convulsion because its
freezing cold. It is bothersome.
Then, driving anywhere is a struggle. The
windows of the car frost up after being left
out in the cold all night.
So, to be able to see out of your window
you have to scrape them, which is a huge time
consumer, but if you don’t clear them it’s obviously very dangerous.
The roads are slick and icy, making it so
much easier to get into an accident. If you
drive anything like me, you’re completely awful anyways, and this makes it so much worse.
Even without all of the hazards and things,
the cold is just unpleasant. I stay cooped up in
my house all season, because I don't want to
deal with the weather.
Gladly, this winter hasn’t been too bad so
far. It has been warmer than many past winters. On some days it almost feels like early
spring.
I was really happy that it hadn’t snowed for
so long, then on January 12, it did. Sad day
that was.
Snow is all right around Christmas time, I
feel like it helps bring out the Christmas spirit,
but anytime other than then thought I cant
stand.
I’ll just pray that the weather doesn’t get
too dreadfully bad.
Opinions, Page 13
What’s your opinion MV?
“I believe that evidence is shown
through science and that the
latest weather phenomenon is
true...”
-Nathanial Groh, ‘13, on global warning
“I love having the word of God
permanently on my body, and it’s
actually helped me share the
gospel several times...”
-Kelsey Richardson, ‘12, on Christians
with tattoos.
“I hate that movie…”
-Aaron Neibert, ‘13, on Twilight
“Life is way too short to waste
energy on things that won’t
matter in the future...”
-Lanie Conner, ‘13, on unnecessary
drama
“People shouldn’t care as much
about their own opinions as much
as His because in the end its His
judgment that matters…”
-Brent Flota, ‘12, on God
“I’m never going on a cruise
because of this…”
-Cole Chauncey, ‘13, on The Costa
Concordia Disaster
“What’s with all the vampires?
Why don’t they make more about
mummies or something?”
-Mrs. Teresa Black on Current Films
“I dislike unhappy people who
make other people unhappy…”
-Reis Barnfield on Happiness
Page 14, Opinions
VERNOIS NEWS
Lend that helping hand, MV
Guest Opinion
By Mackenzie Reever
VERNOIS NEWS
I wonder if anyone ever thinks about how much food they eat in one
day, compared to how much food
starving families eat worldwide eat.
One major issue and concern I
have is world hunger.
One day I would like to help
starving families all around the
world through world hunger organizations.
Knowing that I helped at least
one family would make me feel like
a better person.
Trying to understand how so
many people are starving in the
world is difficult because there is so
much food around us.
Unfortunately, a lot of food is
wasted.
I think many people, including myself, take food and everything
else they have granted sometimes.
Everyone should take at least one opportunity to help someone
in need.
Being involved in a world hunger organization would be a great
experience for anyone and could make people appreciate everything
they have.
Millions of children and adults die each year from hunger.
If everyone took the time and money to donate to world hunger
organizations, at least once a
month or year, the number of
starving families would slowly
decrease.
Something as simple as buying
food for someone out on the
streets would even make a difference.
Most people in starving countries live in poverty.
They don't have much technology to other things to help them
with their daily routines.
Families have to do everything
on their own, and with no food or
energy; daily life must be a struggle for them.
Think about how much you have, and sacrifice some time to help
others.
Eventually, we can stop world hunger and change the world for
the better.
“Think about how much
you have, and sacrifice
some to help others.”
Never give up, MV
Not Bossin’ Just Sayin’
By Kaitlyn Boss
VERNOIS NEWS
January 1 marks that first
day of the New Year. For
many , it is also the first day
they finally decide to make
some changes in their lives,
otherwise known as resolutions.
The month of January is
quickly approaching its last
days until next year. Most of
the people who made these
resolutions have probably
given up or forgotten by
now.
I feel as though many
people decide to make resolution for the New Year, but
are only doing so because
many others do. These followers are not truly dedicated to making changes in
their lives and so they do
not follow through.
Once they mess up during
the year, they can’t wait
until the next to repeat that
empty process.
I have made these “New
Year’s resolutions” in the
past and I never really felt
accomplished. To me, it
does not make a whole lot of
sense to wait until a certain
day to finally decide to
change for the better.
Now, when I feel the
need to change something I
do not wait until a certain
day to begin. I get inspired
to change and motivate to
do so on my own time.
If you are one of those
people who are slacking on
their resolutions, re motivate yourself and try
again. Who cares that we
are already a couple weeks
into 2012?
Just because you’ve
reached a new start to a
new year does not guarantee
success without effort. To
be truly successful with
change you must inspire
yourself.
So whether your resolution was to lose weight, improve your grades or spend
more time with your family,
do not wait for the next New
Year if you mess up. Anytime is a good time to start
over.
Recipe of the Month
Cheddar Biscuits
Ingredients:
1 pack buttermilk biscuit mix
1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup milk
2 tbsp. butter
1 tbsp. oregano
3/4 tsp garlic salt
Directions:
1. Preheat over to 400 degrees. Spray cooking sheet
with non-stick spray.
2. Put biscuit mix, cheese and milk in a bowl and mix
well to form a sticky dough.
3. Using spoon, drop lumps of dough onto cookie
sheets 1.5 in apart.
4. Bake for 10 minutes
5. In a bowl, melt butter and mix with oregano and
garlic salt
6. When the timer goes off, take them out and brush
with butter mixture and bake 5 min at 400 degrees
and another 5-6 min at 350 degrees
7. Transfer onto a late and serves immediately
A&E
Freshmen folly on TV choices
A&E, Page 15
VERNOIS NEWS
However, Jersey Shore is not
all that is being viewed.
Many students choose to
A&E EDITOR
watch more productive, more
mature shows.
Hannah Owens, ’15, exJuice Heads, tanned bimbos,
plained,
“NCIS is probably one of
loud obnoxious house music, and
my favorite shows. It’s sort of
lots of debauchery: what do all
dorky, but I like trying to solve
of these have in common?
the case.”
A certain show on MTV comes
NCIS is one of those shows
to mind: Jersey Shore.
that
actually make one’s mind
MV knows this show, based
work, trying to figure out clues,
on the premise of following eight
and how and why the crimes
primadona as they try to show
were committed, and there is
off for the crowds on the
more to this show than hooking
“illustrious” Jersey Coast.
up and drinking.
Despite glamorizing such
“I like to watch Scrubs, not
scandalous and immature behavonly because it’s funny, but beior, some MV freshmen love this
cause
it
show.
some-what
Taylor
realistic,”
Nowitzke
commented
’15,said,
Nicholas
“Jersey
Pearce.
Shore is my
Scrubs
favorite. I
has
a diflike the tan
ferent
sort
guidos.”
of flow to
Think
it, and the
about it: tan
comedy is a
guidos, what
little higha great reaer
level
son to like a
than just
show.
watching
It’s not
VERNOIS NEWS/hollywoodoncrack.net
intoxicatbecause of The Jersey Shore cast lined up showing off their
ed
particular styles, the large X is appropriate here.
the clever
people run
humor, it’s
amuck.
because
Entertainment Opinion
By Michael Jones
what our society values now-adays.
“I like the Jersey Shore because it’s hilarious!” exclaimed
Christian Plumb, ’15.
Hilariousness, but what makes
this show funny?
Honestly, watching a bunch of
30 year olds act like intoxicated
college students isn’t funny at
all.
It’s actually quite said for adults
to act like that.
By that age, people should be
functioning members of society,
not partying it up on the weekends, and acting a fool.
These characters that people
love so much are adults, and
they should act like it. What
would you think about your parents acting like that?
Would that be funny? Would
that be something you would
want to watch on television?
Zac Braff, a star of the show,
has a unique humor about him
that is quite entertaining.
Looking back on my years at
MV, my tastes in entertainment
choices have changed dramatically.
Honestly, it comes with maturity.
The drinking, and the provocativeness portrayed on shows like
the Jersey Shore, will become
more and more mundane until
one will eventually stop watching
it.
But freshmen will be freshmen. They will come around,
eventually.
CHECK OUT SOME OF YOUR
FRESHMEN CLASS’S FAVORITE MOVIES:
The Help, Lion King, Mean Girls,
A Cinderella Story, The Blind Side,
Zombie Land, The Time
Travelers Wife.. And Many
more!
Mike’s Soundstage
What’s on my playlist?
My pick for January
would have to be “Colly
Strings” by Manchester Orchestra.
By Michael Jones
A&E EDITOR
I recently heard this band
and I was instantly taken-aback. This song has definitely been added to my
favorites list.
Page 16, A & E
VERNOIS NEWS
Mac vs. PC: which is the better computer?
By Avery Barton
VERNIOS NEWS
Nerds argue over the subject: which is better, Mac or PC?
It can definitely be argued until the end of time, but is there a
right or wrong answer?
Or is it all opinion?
According to apple.com, upgrading to a mac isn't just upgrading
your computer. It‟s upgrading your whole computing experience.
Apple.com states that a mac computer is built to be a better
computer.
It cannot get viruses, and it is compatible with windows and all
of one‟s equipment. According to Mrs. Karen Hamilton, Macs are
really easy.
According to wisegeek.com, a PC is the clear winner for a variety
of reasons. More games are available for the PC than for the Mac,
and video card technology is constantly evolving to support the latest standards.
Upgrading a PC‟s graphic card is easy with plenty of choices
available from low-end cards to extremely expensive cards, including dual graphics capability (using two cards).
Upgrading a Mac is not always possible, and when it is, there is
limited hardware available that is typically more expensive than its
equal PC counterpart. “I prefer a PC over a Mac,” stated Matt Stanley, „13. “While I think Macs are very nice, efficient, and have very
high quality programs, there is a lack of diversity.”
According to wisegeek.com, Mac also comes with some incredible Apple applications that many computer users would say blows
default PC apps out of the water.
For example, Garage Band™ is a sound studio application that
not only provides all the bells and whistles of a standard digital recording studio, but also includes video music lessons.
Mac is also considered to be the hands-down winner for any type
of professional editing of graphic production software, establishing
itself as the standard computer of the entertainment industry.
Many people feel that Mac has a better graphic capability.
According to Stanley, it has nothing to do with the brand of the
computer, but more with the brand of the video card itself.
Many people feel that the Mac computer is expensive.
“I believe that Macs are expensive, but not so expensive that is
should not be purchased,” Stanley continued.
Although, many feel like Jagger Ellis, „14, who stated that Macs
are too expensive and overrated.
Sierra Harrel, „12, commented, “I think they are really nice and
you can do a lot of awesome things with them.”
RHCP Rocks Out in 2012
By Paisley Stewart
Managing Editor
By Aryn Wiggins
VERNOIS NEWS
Disney Studios has recently begun remaking classic animation in 3D.
Old favorites such as The Lion King and
Beauty and the Beast have aired so far.
These renditions have
brought childhood alive
for the teenagers who grew up loving
these movies and also showcased the titles for a new generations.
My music playlist is all the
way from Blake Shelton to
Drake. I listen to everything,
honestly.
-Alexandria Richardson
The Red Hot Chilli Peppers, one of
the greatest funk rock bands of our
time, have released (albums since
their debut in 1983 and they are
still going strong with a newly released album called I’m With You.
With a new guitarist, some fans
are skeptical about the new soundtrack but others are thinking positive about the change.
“The new guitarist isn't as good
as the original, he seemed to have
better lifts and a better connection
with the band,” stated John Michael
Davis. „12.
Thought the band lost one element it‟s noticeable that they compensated the loss with a lot of bass,
from their RHCP “Flea.”
Every trach has some sort of
funky bass style which never gets
old and makes the listeners say
“How the…”
“One of my favorite songs,
“Adventures of Rain Dance Maggie”,
What’s on your
playlist, MV?
is on their newest album. I‟m in
love with it,” claimed Devon Riley,
„12.
Never the less, their last album,
Stadium Arcadium, released in
2006, was their best-selling album,
selling over 1.1 million copies within the first week and over 21 million
so far.
Stadium Arcadium has a total of
28 songs on 2 disc set, while “I‟m
With You,” only has 14.
It‟s obvious, it would be hard to
compete but the band is already
very good and with the loss of their
guitarist it would be difficult to
make improvement.
“Out of the last two albums they
have released, I‟d have to say that
Stadium Arcadium is by far my favorite,” explained Emily Borah, „14.
The band has many year ahead
of them and enough time to improve the skill of their new guitarist
and the true loyal fans will wait a
couple years for a newer album,
while in the meantime going to the
RHCP exciting concerts.
Rap: Waka Flocka, Lil’ Wayne,
Young Jeezy, Yela Wolf, Roscoe Dash, Wiz Khalifa, and
Drake.
-LaMar Williams, Jr.
A&E, Page 17
VERNOIS NEWS
FRESHMEN
TREY RILEY
What instruments do you
play? Guitar and ukulele
Do you take lessons? I used
to from Wes Lampp, but I quit 3
years ago and I’ve been playing
on my own ever since.
What kind of music do you
play? Well… Basically anything
from the softest music you can
imagine to the heaviest.
When did you start playing?
Back in 6th grade. So that would
be 2007-08 I believe.
Are you in a band? Yes I am.
I’m in Artificial Color with Steve
Boss, Gabe Habtemariam, John
Michael Davis, Brody Neal, and
Lenzie Gowler.
LOYD TAKES STATE
Sophomore Quentin Loyd was selected to play in the
IMEA All State Orchestra.
Where is the competition? The competition is in
Peoria, Illinois.
What are you looking forward to most at state?
I’m looking forward to meeting new people and the competition.
When did you start playing your instrument? I started playing bass six years ago.
How much time a week do you practice? I spend at least 45
minutes a day practicing and sometimes up to two hours.
Have you been in any other music competitions? Yes, but
not as important as this one.
Freshmen
Style Shoppe
My favorite clothing
stores are American
Eagle and Forever 21
-Haydan Farenholtz
I love my Columbia
Jacket.
-Rachel Kirsh
My favorite clothing
item has to be my
Nike Air Max’s.
-Trace Scarbrough
Everything in my
closet is American
Eagle!
-Austin Martin
I like to stop at
American Eagle.
-Kaitlyn Boss
I like Hibbets.
-Jared Hatton
I like Forever 21 because it’s relatively
cheap.
-Savannah Estes
Page 18, Sports
VERNOIS NEWS
S
O
C
C
E
R
Name: Dalton McGowen
Age: 14
Birth Date: March 24, 1997
Favorite Color: Orange
When did you start Soccer: 2nd grade
Favorite Food: Chicken Pot Pie
Favorite Class: Food and Nutrition
Memorable Moment: Soccer Riot vs. Marion
What do you like most about high school:
Making new friends
School Activities: Soccer, Baseball, FCA
C
R
O
S
S
C
O
U
N
T
R
Y
Name: Wade Xanders
Age: 15
Birth Date: December 24, 1996
Favorite Color: Blue
When did you start Cross Country: High
school. I started going to practice over
the summer of my 8th grade year
Favorite Food: Seafood
Favorite Class: Study Hall!
Memorable Moment: Getting my first
guitar
What do you like most about high
school: More people
School Activities: Cross-country and track
B
A
S
K
E
T
B
A
L
L
Name: Hannah Owens
Age: 15
Birth Date: October 14, 1996
Favorite Color: Purple
When did you start Basketball: 6th grade
Favorite Food: Strawberries
Favorite Class: English
Memorable Moment: Beating Carbondale in
overtime
What do you like most about high school:
All the new friends and having different classes
School Activities: Volleyball, Basketball,
and WYSE
C
H
E
E
R
L
E
A
D
I
N
G
Name: Abbie Thomson
Age: 14
Birth Date: July 9, 1997
Favorite Color: Navy
When did you start Cheerleading: This
year
Favorite Food: Sushi
Favorite Class: Art
Memorable Moment: Competition-Highland
What do you like most about high school:
More freedom
School Activities: Cheerleading, track
W
R
E
S
T
L
I
N
G
Name: Graham Henken
Age: 15
Birth Date: October 17, 1996
Favorite Color: Orange
When did you start Wrestling: This year
Favorite Food: Oranges
Favorite Class: English
Memorable Moment: Pinning a kid in 16
seconds
What do you like most about high school:
I get to see all you myfriends
School Activities: FCA, Wrestling, and
Football
F
O
O
T
B
A
L
L
Name: London Marler
Age: 15
Birth Date: October 6, 1996
Favorite Color: Gray
When did you start playing Football: 5th
grade
Favorite Food: Italian
Favorite Class: Art
Memorable Moment: Spending the last
three months with my grandma. RIP,
Nanny!
What do you like most about high school:
The freedom and meeting all the upper
classmen
School Activities: Just football
VERNOIS NEWS
Sports, Page 19
Regional Championship remains goal for Lady Rams
By Collin Young
SPORTS EDITOR
Continued from page 20
Their record is currently 12 and 8.
Haley Lockhart 13’ stated, “I feel we have really improved in the
last year. We have won more games than the past few years I have
been here.
The Lady Rams have had stiff competition through out the season.
Competition has been especially tough in the conference with Belleville-Althoff, Centralia and an over time thriller against Carbondale.
“I think Centralia and Althoff have been our toughest games. We
will have to look out for them both. Now they come to our home
court, so they should be good games! Centralia is also in our regional.” mentioned Hannah Owens 15’.
The Lady Rams have quite a few good memories from this season.
When asked about it Kelby Kujawa 13’ replied, “Beating Carbondale in overtime and winning the Carbondale Tournament's consolation championship have to be my favorite moments this season.”
A reason for the Lady Rams success this season has been their ability to stay focused in practice and work on improving their skills for
their games.
“ Our typical practice usually consists of 3 on 2 and layups. We
also go through shooting drills and going over our next team we will
be facing.”, stated Lockhart.
Motivation and support has been another contributing factor to
achieving success through the long basketball season.
Owens stated, “I have really great coaches and team mates to give
me support and keep me focused. My dad also pushes me to be my
best.”
Kujawa also added, “I think about how much the hard work at the
beginning of the season will pay off during a tough game in the postseason.”
The Lady Rams realize their weaknesses and what they need to
focus on to continue their success.
“We definitely need to focus on not turning the ball over and converting on offense.”, exclaimed Lockhart.
The post season is approaching quickly and know that in the post
season anyone has a chance.
Owens replied, “We have to keep our heads on straight and go out
and play our hardest every game no matter what team.” when asked
about the post season.
Expectations and goals are what will continue to give the rams the
needed push throughout the rest of their season.
“Our goals are for us to get more wins that the 2004 team (14),
win the regional tournament and better ourselves as basketball players.”, mentioned Kujawa.
The Lady Rams are closing in on winning their 14 games and have a
chance to reach it with three weeks remaining in their regular season.
They will then try to reach their desire of winning a regional championship.
Kage makes huge return
baskets and successful passes with loud bursts of cheers, and demonstrate a level of support that is indeed part of the game.
“There is not another gym that has the atmosphere on top of you,
Continued from page 20
it’s always packed, and we by far have the best student section
around. They play a huge role at our home games,” added Clayton
go rams, “pump it up,” go rams!” Ever notice the enthusiasm for the
Reeves.
game and the passion from the sidelines
“The atmosphere and excited is
of Changnon?
something no one can match. My fellow
Chaos can be defined as a state of
Kage members love the team and want
utter confusion or disorder; a total lack
to help them in any way possible,” notof organization or order, but to stued Allen.
dents at MV, Khaos is spirit, unity, and
“The energy Khaos Kage brings to
a family of Ram fans.
the games gives me goose bumps! The
“Khaos Kage is a family of complete
games world not be as fun and no one
crazies for Mount Vernon high school
would be as pumped without it.
Ram basketball,” explained Spencer
I think it helps the team because it
Allen.
just gives us a good atmosphere to play
It’s all about the excitement and
in. I definitely think we play better at
that kind of togetherness feeling you
home,” sated Reeves.
get when you’re in the Kage,” added
“It’s always fun listening to all of
Ariana Moffitt, ’12.
the chants. It definitely makes the
Behind the net, MV students show
game more fun from the court,”
support by cheering on the sports teams
VERNIOS NEWS: Paisley Stewart claimed Payne.
at home games. A group tasked with
The Khaos Kage continues to cheer on our MV Boys Basketball team. The boys
They get to jump, yell, and mock
truly being the sixth man on the court. won the “Orange Crush” game against Marion.
the opposition in support of their basSenior Clay Payne stated, “It makes
ketball team. Sometimes the whole
us feel like we have an extra player out there.”
room turns its eye to the Khaos behind the net, and that’s when this
The student section at Mount Vernon is unlike any other. FThese
crazy student section shines the brightest.
students sport orange and black with pride, and hoping to impact the
Coach Gamber reminisced, “It still gives me chills. When the playRams from the sidelines.
ers run out and during starting lineups it is pretty special. I have gone
“Our purpose is to take the adrenaline from the opposing team and
to games at Mt. Vernon since I can remember. My family wouldn't miss
give it directly to our boys,” mentioned Brooke Moore,’12.
while I was a kid. I can remember even then how amazing the crowd
“We’re there to pump up the players and show overwhelming
support was. Now our Kage is organized, the theme nights are great,
school spirit,” admitted Moffit.
and its easy to say we have the best fans around. And what is great
One cant miss the section in Changnon where students remain
about our fans is like the end of the fight song states “whether you
standing during the game, generate extra decibels of noise, celebrate
win, whether you lose, we’re with you boys were with you.
By Ashton Boyer
VERNOIS STAFF
VERNOIS SPORTS
Volume 90 - Issue 6
GO RAMS AND LADY RAMS!
Women’s Basketball continues winning season
January 2012
VERNOIS NEWS photo/LifeTouch
LADY RAMS COMPETE: The MV Lady Rams basketball team is off to a great start this season … P. 19
To Inform,
Educate,
Enlighten
and
Entertain
Name: Abbie
Thomson ...
P.18
Name: Dalton
McGowen ...
P.18
Name: Wade
Xanders ...
P.18
“Pump it up
go Rams”, go
Rams…
P.19