2013_Vernois News - Mount Vernon Township High School

VERNOIS NEWS
Volume 91 - Issue 8 VERNOIS NEWS Celebrates the Class of 2014 March 2013
Class of 2014: Carr, juniors take the wheel
VERNOIS NEWS photo/Megan Jackson
Junior at work: Many juniors balance jobs while dealing with ACT prep and school work
To Inform,
Educate,
Enlighten
and
Entertain
Page 4 Page 5
Page 11
Page 13
“Education is the key to unlock the golden door of freedom.”
-George Washington Carver

Page 2, Beats
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
4:00 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 Littlefair, 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
Paisley Stewart, Editor in Chief
Falyn VanDyke, Managing Editor
Makayla Smith, Associate Managing Editor
Jessi Clark, News Editor
Maggie Aaron, A&E Editor
Collin Young, Sports Editor
Kaleb Dorris, Feature Editor
Jase Lucas, Opinions Editor
Shannon Docherty, Staff
Haydan Fahrenholtz, Staff
Daniel Flood, Staff
Brendan Hill, Staff
Rachel Kirsch, Staff
Emily Kniffen, Staff
Trey Riley, Staff
Mr. Jamey VanZandt, Adviser
Mrs. Karen Hamilton, Print Shop Director
Elysia Piercy, Print Shop Co-Op Technician
Writing for Publication 1: Period 3
Katherine Caldwell, Emma Caserotti, Kaleb
Dorris, Haydan Fahrenholtz, Daniel Flood,
Haley Johnson, Rachel Kirsch, Emily Kniffen,
Jase Lucas, Bobby McDonald, Trey Riley
Coach Kessler fills in as new track coach
By Daniel Flood
VERNOIS NEWS
STAFF
VERNOIS NEWS
Coach Kessler is filling in as the new track assistant coach after
Coach Lee resigned from many years of coaching.
Coming off of last year, he has a lot on his plate and the season
is soon to start.
Kessler said, “I want them to get ready to compete and if they
win, then that’s great, but mainly I want them to get out there
and compete at an advanced level. They can do it by being hard Kessler
working and dedicated and teaching their body to be dedicated to the hard work.”
Kessler was busy at work with the girls last year, but now that he's with the boys, he
noticed a big difference.
“With the boys there is more of a team effort, there's more leadership, and when a
boy is not doing good, other guys are willing to say something to motivate a teammate.
That’s another of my overall goals, is for them to work as a team, and do good as a
team,” commented Kessler.
English department reflects on Box’s success
By Trey Riley and Ayla Gehner
VERNOIS NEWS
William Box, ‘12, won a writing horror story contest for his short
story titled “Slender” in November. Box ended up winning a Skype
call with writer Charles Day who critiqued Box’s story.
Box beat out many students in the annual contest, sponsored
by the Creative Writing Club.
Mr. Jeremy Mays, English Department Chair, stated, “William
has shown great promise based on his horror story. He has foundation
and some talent in the craft. His imagination helps him as Box
well.”
Mr. Brandon Martin, English, explained, “It was very well done and he showed his
maturity while writing his story. It was eerie and had great feelings around it.”
Now that Box has received this award, some hope that he continues to write.
Mays and Martin both seem to think Box has a lot of talent, potential, and the vital
drive every student needs to succeed.
Spotlight: Social Studies Department
By Kaleb Dorris
VERNOIS NEWS
FEATURE EDITOR
Ms. Jessica Pilson, Social Studies, is currently teaching Freshman
Civics and Junior American History.
“For part of the fourth and all of third quarter, the freshmen
will be working on the U.S. Constitution. We have recently finished
up citizenship and the history of the Constitution,” Pilson stated,
“A portion of my time I devote to Youth and Government. This semester
we have a general assembly to attended. We are heading to Pilson
Springfield on March 15. I hope to get all bills passed.”
Pilson also taught one section of a Civics class for students that moved in after freshman
year and still need credit.
“I really like the aspects of the classes I teach. I usually enjoy my Freshman classes
the most, but by the end of the year they are trying my patience when we have to go
over the same issues from September,” commented Pilson.
Ms. Pilson keeps her classes lively and ready to work everyday. There is rarely a day
when something interesting isn’t going on.
Vernois News…Have you read it?

VERNOIS NEWS News, Page 3
What’s
Jumpin’
Jessi?
By Jessi Clark
VERNOIS NEWS
NEWS EDITOR
Prom excitement
begins
What does dresses, tuxes, and
flowers all have in common?
The 2013 Prom!
The traditional junior class
prom will be held on April 13
at the Rend Lake Resort. The
dance will last from 7:00–
11:00
This year’s prom theme is
“Tonight’s Dream … Tomorrow’s
Memory.”
Prom is welcome to all junior
and senior students. Dates
from other schools may attend
as long as an out-of-district
form is completed. Information
forms also must be completed
before purchasing tickets. Both
forms are available in the main
office and Mrs. Davis’s and Ms.
Stower’s classrooms.
All student debts must be
cleared before purchasing tickets.
Prom coronation and the
grand march will be held during
the dance starting at 8:00
p.m.
This year’s prom queen
candidates include Shayna
Ham, Shannon Docherty,
Myranda Epplin, Salsha
Brigham, Mollee Sager, Emilea
Allen, Philisha Boyd, and Denaesha
Davis.
King candidates include
Brett Rightnowar, Jonathan
Dorris, Doug Gardner, Eli Phillips,
Mac Jones, Nathan Arnold,
Demarco Jefferson, and
Brykell Patton.
Tickets were on sale March
18—22.
Students make plans for spring break
By Emma Caserotti
VERNOIS NEWS
As spring break 2013 quickly approaches, MV students
prepare a variety of plans.
Many places are considered “traditional” spring
break destinations and according to studentscity.com,
some of these include Cancun, Panama
City, and Dayton Beach.
When many people think of spring break, they
may picture sparkling oceans and sandy beaches,
but, to the contrary, not everyone spends their vacation
soaking up the Florida sun.
Some students are spending their spring break
here in Mount Vernon because of sports or other
commitments.
“Because of softball conference games, I don’t
get to go to Orange Beach, but I do plan on spending
lots of time with my friends who are staying in town
and with my boyfriend,” explained Casey Little, ‘16.
“I’m spending my spring break here. I’ll be playing
softball, basketball, and golf, and doing lots of
eating, shopping, and sleeping,” laughed Paetyn
Hayes, ‘16.
Amelia Quinn, ‘16, stated, “I’m going with my
family to Arizona. I’ll mostly be tanning, shopping,
swimming, and eating.”
Others are spending their vacations catching up
I’m
A
News
Junior
Q: How is junior year different from freshman/sophomore
year?
A: There’s a lot more responsibilities, especially with AP classes. If
you’re in extracurricular and sports as well, you have to really
manage your time.
with family.
“I’m visiting my family in Chicago,” said Riley
Cornett, ‘16. “It’s not exactly the beach, but it’ll be
fun to see relatives I haven’t seen in a while.”
There are still students who take the more traditional
route and spend time at the beach.
Kaylin King, ‘16, said that she was spending her
spring break chilling on the beach in Gulf Shores,
Alabama, with her best friend.
Being high school students, many have experienced
many different spring breaks.
“My favorite spring break I’ve been on was last
year. I went to the beach with some of my best
friends and we had the best time,” mentioned Cornett.
“We rode go-carts, swam, and played beach
volleyball all week.”
Hayes explained that her favorite spring break
was last year. “I went to the beach with my friends
and family and it was basically paradise.”
Most students have a clear picture in their minds
of exactly what they’d like to do this spring break,
whether those are their actual plans or not.
“If I could do anything for spring break, I would
go on a trip with my friends to Australia,” joked
King.
Whether staying in town or traveling, most students
are ready for spring break 2013.
Rebekah Holt
Q: What is junior year all about?
A: Finally being an upperclassman and all the responsibilities and incentives that go
with it, like finally being able to go to prom!
Q: How have you prepared for the ACT?
A: All the practice tests the school had us take and our preparatory assignments
from teachers.
Q: What advice would you give to next year’s juniors?
A: Pick your classes wisely! You will have a mental breakdown if you take all of the
AP classes at once. And don’t expect to have a life.

News, Page 4
VERNOIS NEWS
Pope Benedict XVI resignation affects Catholic world
By Daniel Flood
VERNOIS NEWS
STAFF
For the first time in 600 years, the pope (in this case, Pope Benedict
XVI) stepped down from his position as leader of the Catholic Church.
It is uncommon to resign as pope as terms usually last until death.
Benedict is not the first to resign; five others have stepped down
from the reign in earlier times.
For those who don’t know, the pope is the Bishop of Rome and
the leader of the worldwide Catholic Church. He is the successor of
Saint Peter the Apostle. He is seated in the Vatican in Rome, conducting
the worldwide spread of Christianity.
Catholics do not worship the pope, nor do they worship apostles,
Mary, or saints. They worship one God in three divine persons: The
Father, Son, and The Holy Spirit.
Being pope is the highest ordination that a priest can have, and
there’s only one. He is selected from the “Papal Conclave” a college
U of I Women’s Glee stops by MV
By Trey Riley and Emily Kniffen
VERNOIS NEWS
STAFF
On March 8, the MV Music Department got to experience the University
of Illinois Women’s Glee Club. During fourth hour, the group sang,
and aimed to impress MV students.
To many vocalists, the ranges of their voices are very important.
To some, their abilities were top notch.
Nathan Arnold, ‘14, stated, “The Women’s Glee Club was very
impressive with their vocal ranges and soloists. The sopranos sang
of cardinals (Cardinals are the second highest ordination for a
priest). The Papal Conclave appoints and selects a new pope by voting,
and the person of interest must have a two thirds majority vote
to be selected.
That is the process for after the pope dies, but for the first time
since the 15th century a pope has resigned. Usually once the pope
dies, the Ring of the Fisherman and the Papal Seal he wears is removed
and destroyed to show the end of his reign. It is unknown
what the Cardinals will do with the ring and seal now that the pope
has resigned.
The official announcement on why the pope resigned is that he
was too old and mentally and physically ill. His doctor said he couldn't
travel and a big part of the pope’s job is traveling and spreading
the word of Christ. Other rumors from different medias could be
false, but this is the announcement released at the beginning of February
this year by the pope.
As it is the end of the line for Pope Benedict XVI, the beginning of
search for the new Bishop of Rome is underway.
higher and the altos sang lower than I thought they could.”
Seeing these women with amazing talents inspires some to work
harder and try to better themselves.
Olivia Bailey, ‘14, explained, “Listening to this group inspired me
to work harder to become a better singer.”
To one’s surprise, not every woman that was singing was obtaining
a major in music. It was purely for music.
Amy Heckenberger, ‘14, expressed, “It was cool that some of
them were not majoring in music, but were just in it because they
love singing and music and general.”
I’m
A
Junior
Q: What is junior year all about?
A: Junior year is about officially growing up and
becoming a young man/woman and planning
your future.
Q: How have you prepared for the ACT?
A: I’ve taken PSAE Prep so I’d be refreshed by the
time the ACT comes around.
DeMarco Jefferson
Q: How are you involved at MV?
A: I’m involved in Symphonic Band and I’m on the MTV Cheerleading
team.
Q: What is your favorite part of junior year?
A: When JV won first place at the State Competition for the first time
ever!
Q: How is junior different than freshman/
sophomore year?
A: It’s been the most stressful. You worry about
the ACT and feel overwhelmed with homework.
But this is the time you really get to know the
people in your class.
Q: What is your favorite part of junior year?
A: We have more freedom as upperclassmen,
which is nice.
Q: What is your least favorite part of junior
year?
A: Depending on the classes you sign up for,
there's a lot of homework!
Q: How are you involved at
MV?
A: I’m a cheerleader and soccer
player, and I’m also involved in
FBLA and Sub Debs.
Mollee Sager

Feature
Saint Patrick’s Day arrives
VERNOIS NEWS Feature, Page 5
Kaleb’s
Korner
By Kaleb Dorris
VERNOIS NEWS
FEATURE EDITOR
#YOLO
YOLO, an acronym that
originated in 2011, has recently
made a new appearance
in the small town of
Mt. Vernon, IL.
The recent twitter, Facebook,
and Tumblr posts
have really made an impact
on my life concerning the
phrase YOLO.
When YOLO is used in
the context “I just dyed my
hair pink #YOLO,” it’s referring
to you only live
once, so let’s dye my hair
pink.
You only live once so
shouldn't we board up the
windows, and be on guard
every second of our life?
The true meaning to this is
“I just dyed my hair pink,
it all fell out, and now
I’m bald. #YOLO.”
This issue with YOLO
concerns me. Why can’t
this generation create a
new meaning for YOLO?
You only live once, so cherish
the moment with
friends, and family, because
one day they won’t
be there.
How do you think the
cancer patients, or the
critically injured feel when
you say YOLO? They would
give anything just to live
their life, and we all treat
it like its garbage. Next
time you use YOLO, think
about the context you use
it in.
By Bobby McDonald
VERNOIS NEWS
Four-leaf clovers, green clothes and leprechauns
await.
Falling on a Sunday this year, March 17—Saint
Patrick’s Day—will once again bring plans (and
pinching) to MV students and staff.
“I honestly don’t know what it stands for,”
mentioned Jena Summers, ‘13.
According to history.com, Saint Patrick’s Day
came about to honor Saint Patrick, the patron
saint of Ireland who is believed to have introduced
Christianity to Ireland.
It is believed Saint Patrick died on March 17,
461 A.D.
“I think it is a neat little tradition,” Summers
replied on the subject of wearing green. “It’s very
cute.”
The origin of wearing green on this day, according
to the Huffington Post’s website, has differing
origins, from the shamrock Saint Patrick used to
explain the Holy Trinity to Ireland’s nickname as
Behavior raises questions about lunch
By Kaleb Dorris
VERNOIS NEWS
FEATURE EDITOR
Greenies! A nickname one usually hears during the
freshman year in high school. Other nickname include
“little kids”, “immature”, even “new kids”.
Since freshmen are the new kids around the
block, they are also known for their reckless immature
behaviors. Upperclassmen define freshmen
as inexperienced.
Sydney Winkleman, ‘16, believes that the
freshmen have caused more trouble than usual.
Alicia Dorris, ‘16, stated “I think that it’s the
smallness of the lunch room, and all of the people
crowding that causes the problem.”
Assistant principal Julie Littlefair explained,
the “Emerald Isle.”
“Leprechauns are cute,” joked Ms. LeeAnn Ferguson
of the Special Education department.
The standard image of leprechauns used as a
symbol for Saint Patrick’s Day and Ireland actually
came from the 1959 Disney film Darby O’ Gill &
the Little People.
“I think it just adds to the fun,” claimed Brandon
Nabors, ‘13. “Every holiday needs a symbolic
figure.”
The tradition of pinching people not wearing
green on this day is, according to scmonitor.com,
an American-started tradition, started in the 1700s
as it was believed that green would make one invisible
to leprechauns who would pinch anyone
that they could see.
“I get angry when I am pinched,” Nabors complained.
The pinch would remind people to wear green.
“I believe it is harmless if you don’t really go
for the hard pinch,” concluded Summers.
“There are very few freshmen causing the problems
around campus. The cause of this could probably
be the length of the freshmen lunch period. It
gives freshmen more time to get in trouble.”
Mrs. Littlefair also stated, “To stop this situation,
we try to meet with the student and his/her
parents to solve the problem. If this doesn't work
they are put on...probation, which gives them a
chance to get better.”
Kristina Toney, ‘16, believes it will get better
over time. “We just need to grow in maturity”,
Toney stated.
Dorris added, “If they shorten our lunch hour,
the problem will be solved.”
Q: How is junior year different from freshman/sophomore year?
A: I had a social life way back when. It was nice.
Q: What is your favorite part of junior year?
A: Making it to regional championship for men’s soccer and scoring
2 goals, but losing 4-3.
Q: What is your least favorite part of junior year?
A: Fighting the urge to sleep so I can do homework.
Q: How are you involved at MV?
A: FBLA and men’s soccer Braydon
Riley

Page 6, Editorial
Editorial
VERNOIS NEWS
VERNOIS NEWS
A VERNOIS PUBLICATIONS GROUP Newspaper
Editorial Board:
Paisley Stewart, Editor in Chief
Falyn VanDyke, Managing Editor
Makayla Smith, Associate Managing Editor
Jessi Clark, News Editor
Mr. Jamey VanZandt, Adviser
Vernois Views
Art, Music should remain vital
MV offers students the opportunity to get involved in both
vocal and instrumental music through band, orchestra, and
chorus programs and eleven art classes are available for
freshmen-seniors to enroll in.
In a time of economic struggle it is a true virtue of our
school that art and music programs are still readily available
and cover a variety of artistic pursuits.
Many schools have been forced to cut such programs.
The school board, administration, and community often do
not see the vast benefit that the arts bring to education
compared to the cost of maintaining these classes.
Involvement in art and music has been revealed to increase
standardized test scores, have been linked to higher
academic performance, more community service, and lower
drop-out rates.
The emphasis on the ACT and other standardized testing
has risen exponentially over the past few years. States
judge academic readiness by the average ACT score, colleges
scrutinizes applicants based on this two-digit number,
and certain funding may be lost due to subpar performance
at a high school. It is no wonder that administrations are so
concerned with preparing students for the ACT. However,
studies show that more emphasis being placed on the arts
may be the answer to our standardized test dilemma.
Academic success is an important aspect to consider
when discussing art and music, but what is more important
than GPA and ACT scores are the personal benefits that are
received through the arts.
Individuals time and again turn to music in times of pain,
suffering, and stress as well as in times of relaxation, joy,
and celebration. Music and art are often thought of as luxuries
or unnecessary, but this is untrue.
Some experts go as far to say that the arts are essential
for human survival. Music professor and pianist Karl Paulnack
believes that the arts provide a way to express feelings
where words sometimes cannot, and a way to understand
things with our hearts when we can’t with our minds.
Those who are involved in the arts know the deep emotional
connections that are made from creating art or music.
MV is fortunate to have an art and music program with
outstanding instructors. The Vernois News encourages every
student to get involved or attend performances and exhibits.
Also, take advantage of the many exceptional cultural
activities in our community and at the Cedarhurst Center for
the Performing Arts.
Students Share Opinions on
Junior Year Experience
“My least favorite part of junior year is that the ACT
falls on my birthday.”
-McKenzie Payne
“Junior year is all about planning your future
and becoming an adult...scary!”
-Quentin Favors
“My favorite part of junior year was coming back after
summer break, seeing all of my friends, and knowing that
I am finally an upperclassman.”
-Kara Bachelor
“My favorite part of junior year is the freedom I have.”
-Molly Koester
“As a junior you have a whole different form of confidence.
I feel more comfortable speaking up in class. I am
not shy anymore.”
-Kirsten Minor
“My social life has declined and I have 5 plus hours of
homework each night. I’m doing homework on the weekend.
Not cool.”
-Brett Rightnowar
“Junior year is very different from sophomore or freshman
year because the work is harder and more is expected
of you.”
-Chyna Rivera
Do you have a question about
a story you’ve read in the
Vernois News?
Do you want to voice your opinion
on something happening
on campus?
Write a letter to the editor
and drop it by the
Vernois Publications Office, Room
122H.

VERNOIS NEWS
Remember freshman year? The closed-campus lunches
… Going through Freshman Academy … Do upperclassmen
recall how they got through it?
As the school year continues, many freshmen
have joined the MV campus. With the hustle and bustle
of finding classes, keeping grades up, joining
clubs, and making new interesting friends, students
try to keep everything together the best they can.
Freshman year can definitely be a stressful year. It’s
a big change for a lot of students, especially the students
from smaller schools.
The adjustment is large, but most students really
like the change. I always felt it gave me more options
to branch out in my class choices and my choice
of friends. Hanging out with different groups of people
really does make quite the impact on what choices
you make. It’s really good to try to get involved
with activities at MV. It’s a good way to know a lot of
upperclassmen and teachers that organize these
Opinions
Kniffen encourages freshmen
K n i f f e n ’s
News
By Emily Kniffen
VERNOIS NEWS
STAFF
clubs and organizations. There are
many to choose from ranging from
Future Business Leaders of America
to Student Council to Fellowship of
Christian Athletes. And those are
just a few of them. There are several
others and many sports to join.
It’s always a good idea to look into
those options.
Another advantage of high school is that students
are encouraged to select classes of interest. This
helps give a feel of what you might want to think
about for the future. It may seem like it’s too early
to be thinking about that, but it’s really not! It will
benefit you greatly in the end when you get to senior
year and you’ve already got everything figured out.
And then we get to the beloved time of day—
lunch. Most freshmen dream about going off campus
for lunch. Do you want Little Caesar’s Pizza? Or
Fazoli’s? Where should you sit? Should you do Fivefor-Five
Wednesdays?
In the end, the most important things about
freshman year are to learn, grow as a person, and
truly start to figure out who you are and who you
want to become. Certain things will open your eyes.
You’ll look back and laugh. And I promise, it only
gets better.
Flood discusses MV’s “hot spots”
Da Flood of
Information
By Daniel Flood
VERNOIS NEWS
STAFF
Some students think that school is boring, lame, or
not cool, but it can actually be lots of fun. You just
have to know the cool spots and the fun activities we
have here on campus and you’re set.
Let’s start with math. Math is always a number
one hot-spot because it’s popular for its awesome
teachers teaching the most hated subject. It’s also a
great place to cry over a recent ex, since everyone
will think you’re crying about the calculus test in
front of you. To those who love math and are good
at it, I salute you for doing the implausible.
Another great subject is English. This is great for
people with poor grammar skills. English teachers
are like ticking time bombs waiting to correct your
grammatical mistakes. This subject is also famous
for writing...writing so long your hand cramps, turns
black, and falls off.
If you’re not a fan of core subject and more right
-brained, art could be your forte. In art it’s always
the perfect time to wear your favorite white shirt,
until you get the biggest paint glob on it. So, no matter
how hard you argue that you “got this stuff at
home” that will help you get the
stain out, acrylic paint is with you
until the day you die.
A popular activity to break away
from your school stress is to take
your Dementor out of your pocket
and let it sap the knowledge out of
you, that is, until a teacher casts an
Expecto “Put-Your-Phones-Away”
Patronus. If you don’t like your
phone and you’re self-conscious about it, no worries.
Just pull out your music and have a jam session for
the whole class to hear. Not a fan of music? Just
want to chat with your friend? Why not have a conversation
smack-dab in the middle of the hallway?
If you don’t have the smarts, sign up for strength
and conditioning. It’s a great class to take if you like
to work hard and build muscles. Just don’t let Shaner
deceive you; the turf room isn’t plush like real
grass. Ever heard of the term “blades of grass?” The
equipment is also very clean. It looks like you’ve
been juggling coal when you walk out of the warehouse.
Another popular spot is the library for its vast
variety of books. It’s a great place to grab some Little
Debbies ® as you race to your next class. Still
hungry? Go to Driver’s Ed and smell all the food you
can’t have being baked one floor above you.
So next time you’re bored walking around campus,
just remember these hot spots to make your day
interesting.
Page 7, Opinions
Jase’s
Jive
By Jase Lucas
VERNOIS NEWS
OPINIONS EDITOR
Freshmen leave
campus
Did you know freshmen can
leave campus for lunch?
Neither did I, until Mrs.
Jessica Gamber, Math, let me
go.
Mrs. Gamber teaches Algebra
I and Geometry for Team
R of the Freshman Academy.
For our most recent chapter
in these classes, she wanted
to see higher homework
turn-in rates.
So, she made a deal with
her students: Whoever could
turn in every assignment on
time for the chapter would
receive one day of off-campus
lunch.
As you can imagine, this
caught everyone’s attention
instantly as she explained that
Freshman Academy teachers
are allowed to give such permission.
After the chapter was
over, about half of our team
had received the incentive.
There are three teams, so
half of Team R is one-sixth of
the freshman class.
I had a great time at lunch
on my day off, but it brought
a question to my mind: If
there is a significant reason to
keep us on campus, why let us
off? Doesn’t it make since
that, if we are forced to stay
most days, there should be a
reason.
In my opinion, this proves
that the closed-campus policy
is just MV making rules for the
heck of it.
To me, if freshmen can be
trusted to leave once, there is
no reason for our lunch.

“Operetta was a
great experience for
me! I loved being
able to hang out
with my friends and
have a good time
putting together an
amazing show!”
Elysia
Piercy
“It’s a great way to
meet new people
and do what you
enjoy!”
Caleb
Vaughn
“It was a lot of hard
work and so much
good into every little
detail, but the moment
you set foot
on the stage for the
show makes it all
worth it.”
Kaydee
“This year’s operetta
took a lot of effort,
and it was awesome
that so many people
pulled together to
make it a reality.”
Bennett
Lamczyk
Dycus
Dalton
Miller
“Talk about a group effort! If
one person messes up, it
throws everyone off. It’s
something I will always love
to do. It’s a life changing
experience.”
“I love Operetta because it
gives me time to be with all
of my friends who enjoy acting
as much I do! I love getting
to be someone different
for a change.”
Jonathan
Dorris
“We work our hardest
to put on a great
show for the community.
I love every
Faith
minute of it!”
Harpole
“Operetta is a great
experience. The cast
becomes one big
family and you make
memories that will
last a lifetime.”
Olivia
Bailey

Ashtyn
Cornett
“I love seeing everyone
in the cast at
every
rehearsal because
we have all grown
so close. That’s why
it is hard for me to
say goodbye to our
seniors each year.”
“Operetta is
always my favorite
time of
the year. I love
the singing and
dancing, and
getting to be a
character that
isn’t like me.”
Nathan
Arnold
Shayln
Koch
“I loved getting to date my boyfriend
both on and off stage.”
“My role in Operetta
was make up and
costumes. I really enjoyed
it because I got
to do something I
love to do and make
a lot of friends.”
Bethaney
Brown
It’s extremely
fun and the
nothing can
beat the
enegery high
you get during
the show.
Not to mention, if you
want to get in the
show, we have plenty
of room!”
James
Wiegel
“I ran the light
board. I like doing
Operetta
because you
make a bunch
of new friends
and it is a great
experience.”
“My senior year operetta
was bittersweet. I
loved being able to
[play a] Mexican, something
totally different
from what I am! Every
operetta has brought a
new experience for me
and I wouldn’t trade it
for the world.”
Grace
McDowell
“Some of my best high
school memories were
made in the auditorium
during Operetta rehearsals.
I loved every minute of it
and I will miss it dearly.”
Cody Wilson
Olivia
Ashby

Page 10, Columns
Columns
Stewart attends Y&G, shares insights
Paisley In Print
By Paisley Stewart
VERNOIS NEWS
EDITOR IN CHIEF
I had the wonderful experience of attending the YMCA Youth and
Government General Assembly in Springfield, Illinois last weekend.
Between having a lot of free stuff thrown at you in hopes that
you will vote for them, eating some of the worst food in the country,
early morning wake ups, and the always eventful “mandatory fun
night”, Youth and Government provides students with an amazing
opportunity to learn about government and have new insight into
politics.
Personally, Youth and Government weekend is one of my favorite
parts of each school year. I was fortunate again to have an amazing
delegation to spend the weekend with and more specifically a great
bill group who worked hard to get our bill passed.
At the beginning of the school year I sat down with my three fellow
legislators; Summer Karch, Taylor Phillips, and Katie Aaron, as
well as our lobbyist, Emily Kniffen, and two Legislative assistants,
Daniel Flood and Wade Xanders. We discussed different ideas for our
bill for a couple hours and eventually settled on making animal testing
illegal in the state of Illinois. Our bill continued to grow and
change through the process of research, Pre-Legislature I, and Pre-
Legislature II. Overall it was a well formed idea from the beginning
and something I felt strongly about.
After deciding on a bill, we hit the internet to research our chosen
topic. First we learned that the Illinois Compiled Statutes have
absolutely no regulations or laws dealing with animal testing. This
was astounding to me; the federal government also lacked any real
legislation on the issue.
VanDyke discusses traveling world
Falyn’s Forum
By Falyn VanDyke
VERNOIS NEWS
MANAGING EDITOR
Rome. Italy. Ireland. Australia.
These are four places I would give anything to travel to.
Everyone has those places that they love, a place they’ve seen in
a photo that catches their eye, and that’s how I feel about traveling.
Every place I’ve seen catches my eye. I would visit the whole
entire world if I could.
There are so many places I want to see and so many things I want
to do when I get there.
Many people ask why I want to travel and not only that, by why
to Rome, Italy, Ireland, and Australia. My answer is simple.
Rome has history. Rome has the Coliseum, where many gladiators
fought to the death. Plus I want to see the Fontana di Trevi or the
Trevi Fountain. Legend has it that by throwing a coin into the fountain,
you secure your return back to Rome.
VERNOIS NEWS
While we did not find many standing laws on the issue of animal
testing we did find significant scientific proven alternatives to animal
testing, factual data on why animal testing is ineffective, and
heartbreaking stories on what thousands of animals go through every
day.
Some of the statistics I read were shocking and I would like to
share a few; fourteen to seventy million animals are tested on every
year and fifteen percent of these animals die within three weeks of
being test subjects.
Many people are unaware of just how inhuman animal testing is.
The animals are starved, deprived of water, and stuffed into small
and cruel living environments. Often time the animals’ vocal cords
are cut so they do not make noise. Testing can be very gross. Some
researchers put chemicals in the corneas of eyes to test how long it
takes the chemical to burn away the cornea.
I was very pleased by the overwhelming support our bill received
in committee at Springfield and am proud to say that it passed
through both the House of Representatives and Senate without significant
opposition. Having our mock bill become a “law” was a
great feeling, but what excited me most is that my bill group
brought awareness to an important issue. I cannot tell you how many
times I was approached by someone at Youth and Government who
couldn’t believe cosmetic animal testing was still practiced. They
were as stunned as I about the mistreatment of animals.
Youth and Government has now ended, but I want to continue to
be an activist for ending animal testing. One of the best ways to
protest this awful practice is by purchasing only “cruelty-free” (not
tested on animals) products.
By promoting the use of products that are not tested on animals
we can make others obsolete. A full list of products that are not
tested on animals is available on PETA’S (People for the Ethical
Treatment of Animals) website.
I encourage everyone to help educate the public about the cruelty
of animal testing and to make a concerted effort to use only those
products not tested on animals.
What doesn't sound good about Italy? I mean, really? I would love
to visit Venice because it was a city built on a lagoon, which means
the streets are nothing but water. That sounds fascinating, doesn't
it? I’ve always wanted to see how they live surrounded by water.
I would also love to visit Verona and visit Juliet’s Wall. That is
where girls from all over the world post letters or notes to Juliet
asking for her advice with relationship trouble. From what I’ve seen
of the wall, it seems to be an amazing sight.
Oh, Ireland. Rolling green hills, big castles, and the deep ocean
below it. I’ve always been interested by the castles and the history
behind it. Not to mention after living in Illinois all my life, surrounded
by plains, hills would be a nice change of pace.
Can you imagine visiting Dublin, Ireland on St. Patrick’s Day?
When I think about Australia, I automatically think of P. Sherman,
42 Wallaby Way, Sydney, and Finding Nemo is the reason I want to
visit there so badly.
Not only do I love the accents and the ocean, but I would love to
visit the city. I would love to see what things are in Australia that we
don't have here.
When I think about traveling, I think of adventure. I think about
how fantastic it would be to go to places one has always dreamed of
going to, but also has the comforting feeling of knowing one can always
return home.

VERNOIS NEWS
Smith explains Butterfly Project
Makayla’s Musings
By Makayla Smith
VERNOIS NEWS
ASSOCIATE MANAGING EDITOR
“When you find yourself cocooned in isolation and cannot find your
way out of darkness, remember that this is similar
to the place where caterpillars go to grow
their wings.” -Unknown
The other day, I happened to come across a
reference about something called the “Butterfly
Project.”
I was quite confused by this. So, being curious,
I Google searched “Butterfly Project” and
clicked on a Tumblr result. The first paragraph
that greeted my eyes explained it all.
It is aimed towards those who self-harm,
those who know someone who does, and those
who are considering self-harm.
According to butterfly-project.tumblr.com,
the Butterfly Project can be defined by seven
simple “rules.”
1. “When you feel like you want to cut, take
a marker or pen and draw a butterfly on wherever
the self-harm occurs.”
2. “Name the butterfly after a loved one, or
someone that really wants you to get better.”
3. “NO scrubbing the butterfly off.”
4. “If you cut before the butterfly is gone, it dies. if you don't cut,
it lives.”
Flight causes disaster
Haydan’s Hangups
By Haydan Fahrenholtz
VERNOIS NEWS
STAFF
I fly quite a few times a year to see my dad’s aunt for vacation. Recently,
I was seated on my flight to Orlando, Florida, and I took a
window seat. I was hoping this flight wouldn’t be a full one.
For those who don’t know me well, one would know that I cannot
stand brushing up against people that I don’t know or sitting relatively
close to people. So, nothing is worse than being trapped in a metal
container filled with so many people that there is basically only
standing room left.
I have never had an easy flying experience. I always end up with a
headache and I feel disgusting by the end of the day.
The plane started to fill up very quickly and just as I got situated
on the plane and in my seat, a father came into the plane with his
two raging children. The little boy looked to be about three years old
and had trouble written all over his face.
They were complaining that they were bored and tired and
screaming and not minding their father at all. They stopped right next
Page 11, Columns
5. “If you have more than one, cutting kills them all.”
6. “Another person may draw them on you. These butterflies are
extra special. Take good care of them.”
The seventh “rule”, however, is different. It’s all about showing
support and care.
7. “Even if you don’t cut, feel free to draw a butterfly anyway, to
show your support. If you do this, name it after someone you know
that is suffering right now, and tell them. It could help.”
A few people have noticed that I’ve drawn butterflies on my wrist
lately.
I draw them because of Rule Seven. I draw them because I care
about friends who struggle or have struggled
with this.
The butterfly doesn’t even always have to
count for self-harm. Depression is something that
loads of people encounter, especially teens.
The butterflies remind me to be strong, help
to support those around me who struggle with
self harm or depression, and give me the opportunity
to start up a conversation about the Butterfly
Project.
Scrolling through the pages upon pages of
user-submitted stories on that Tumblr really
pulled on my heartstings. People were opening
up to share their stories, working to stop their
self harm, or sharing news of their success
thanks to the butterflies.
I encourage all who are struggling or know
someone who struggles to draw a butterfly. It
can be big, small, colorful. There can be one
butterfly or ten butterflies. Artistic talent
doesn’t matter.
It’s all about the message of the butterfly. A message of hope,
healing, and beauty.
VERNOIS NEWS/www.butterfly-project.tumblr.com
to my row and I prayed and pleaded with the father in my mind not to
take the seats next to me.
Just my luck.
The father put their carry-ons in the above compartments and set
his son right next to me. The father took the aisle seat and he put the
daughter in the aisle seat of the row next to us.
I rolled my eyes and focused on not making eye contact with any
of them. At this point, I was more thankful that I decided to buy a
new book and brought my headphones. I put the headphones on, hoping
that the father would take it as a sign not to talk to me.
But once again, my luck kicked in.
The father tapped me on the shoulder and smiled. I pulled out one
of the headphone and said “Hello.” He said to me, “What can ya do?”
and looked over at his two unsatisfied children.
I shrugged and put the headphones back in my ear. The little boy
then tapped me on my arm within a few minutes of his father and
started asking me questions.
The father interrupted him and told him to stop. He then looked
over to me and asked me where I’m headed after landing. While answering,
the son asked to go to the bathroom.
Unwillingly, the father got up and walked his son to the restroom.
I looked over and smiled at the little girl, who then got up and came
to sit next to me in the seat where her brother had been.
I couldn’t believe what was happening. I put my headphones back
in and ignored the family the rest of the way there.
Worst flight experience ever.

Page 12, A&E
Anticipation grows for
LIGHTS’ acoustic album
By Ayla Gehner
VERNOIS NEWS
April 30 marks the date that
LIGHTS’ new album will drop,
and a new tour through the
U.S. And Canada will begin.
The “grungy, electro-pop”
songstress has been teasing
fans for months, but March 4,
she officially unveiled her
newest project.
This acoustic version of her
last album, Siberia, will be
featuring collaborations with
Owl City, Max Kerman, and
Coeur de Pirate.
Fans are
optimistic about
all her experimental
collaborations
thus far.
“She was
amazing alone,
but it’s also
great working
with others,”
stated Mackenzie
Reever, ‘13.
C a t a r i n a
Bell, ‘15, added,
“I think it’s
great. And Owl
City is pretty
mainstream, so
maybe that’ll
help her music
get out more.”
Song previews have already
popped up on Amazon.com,
with a surprising twist on the
on the track “Peace Sign”,
involving parts of the song
being sung in French.
“It’s something different,
you know? I love the way she
experiments and does things
no one else has, like singing
parts in French,” stated Jonathan
Dorris, ‘14.
LIGHTS has also been commended
for the evolution of
her personal sound from the
polished synth and auto-tuned
infused techno-pop sound of
her first album, The Listening,
to the harder, grungy, more
raw feeling of Siberia.
LIGHTS herself has said
she’s “definitely gravitating
towards some gnarlier stuff
with a bit of grit to it…” during
an interview with Blare on
October 23, 2011, nineteen
A&E
days after the release of Siberia.
“She’s always been able to
strip down her songs to just
acoustic, but it’s still kinda a
change of pace. I’ve heard her
play several songs acoustically
on YouTube, and on her acoustic
EP, (released August 2009)
but she’s never really taken it
this far before. It’s a nice
step. I think it shows she has
depth and variety,” explained
Falyn VanDyke, ‘14.
“It gives a different meaning
to songs that you never
would have noticed
before,”
Dorris stated.
Her acoustic
album features
ten tracks, and
they appear in a
different order
than on the
original album.
All her bigger
hits appear on
the album such
as “Banner”,
“Toes”, “Cactus
in the Valley”,
and “Flux and
Flow”, among
others.
“I’m really
looking forward
to hearing “Toes” acoustically.
The lyrics are beautiful, and
they stand out in the acoustic
version,” observed VanDyke. “I
saw a video of her playing it
during an acoustic show at
Vintage Vinyl in St. Louis. It
was amazing.”
Preorders are available
March 19, and all preorder
packages will include special
posters signed by LIGHTS herself.
Her tour schedule includes
bigger locales, such as New
York City, Los Angeles, and
Boston. LIGHTS has been
known to go on multiple legs,
so St. Louis and Chicago may
pop up during the next one
later on in the year.
While fans anxiously
await the April album release,
the 26 year old artist will be
preforming at multiple music
festivals all over the globe.
VERNOIS NEWS/www.tumblr.com
VERNOIS NEWS
The Host: Turned Into a Movie
By Katherine Caldwell
VERNOIS NEWS
Stephanie Meyer is known
best for her Twilight books, but
she may now be known for something
else. Her book The Host is
now being made into a movie,
and some fans are excited.
Her much awaited book series
gas been a hit with teens and
adults, and has not gotten a lot
of bad criticism.
Rebecca Bumpus, ‘16, stated,
“I love the book, so I don’t think
the movie will ever compare.
The book made it so realistic;
the movie is always second best.
The movie will be good, but the
book is great.”
Now that the Twilight movies
are all done, another one of her
books is going to hit the big
James
Franco
Mila
Kunis
Oz the
Great and
Powerful
screens, but are students excited
to see the movie?
Hannah Beasley, ‘16, exclaimed,
“I would obviously love
to give Stephanie Meyer another
chance. The concept of the movie
seems so cool.”
Will this movie appeal to
male population, or does one
have to beg them to go?
Brett Damron, ‘16, explained,
“It looks interesting enough that
I might not get bored watching
it, but I think I would see it if my
girlfriend wanted me to.”
It seems like most have high
expectations for The Host, but
others do not.
Katelyn Rainwater, ‘16, expressed,
“I was never a big fan
of Twilight, so I’m honestly not
going to be surprised if I hate
this movie.”
On the Big
Screen
Oz the Great and Powerful hit
theaters in the United States
on March 8, 2013. Ever since,
it has been the highest rated
movie on imbd.com.
The story is set as a twenty
year prequel to one of the
best selling movies of all
time, The Wonderful Wizard
of Oz.
Oscar Diggs, played by
James Franco, is cast into a
fantasy-like land where he is
faced with a decision; to be a
good man or a great one.
Oz the Great and Powerful
is set to open with a 75 to 80
million dollar profit in its first
week. Critics have gave the
movie a rating of 7.0 out of
10, but many fans advise
against seeing the movie.
While receiving mixed
opinions, it is a must see for
die hard fans of The Wonderful
Wizard of
Oz.
By Trey Riley
STAFF

VERNOIS NEWS
Sony announces release of PlayStation 4
By Trey Riley
VERNOIS NEWS
STAFF
Sony recently released ideas for the PlayStation 4.
In New York on February 20, Sony planned to head towards the
new generation of gaming by releasing an all new console on the
date “Holiday 2013”.
Sony had already hinted at a new console before February 20 at
a prior E3 convention. It was not set in stone until last month.
Larry Chronister, ‘13, stated, “Sony had released some information
about it last year at E3 and Comic-Con.”
When gamers learned of this, many were excited about the future
and what this console will bring towards it.
Kaleb Cox, ‘14, claimed, “I’m pretty excited for this console
because it’s a whole new step for Sony and gaming.”
With Sony pushing out a new console, some believe it will bring
in a whole new time of games, while others remain skeptical.
Dayne Glossner, ‘13, thought, “I’m unsure. The graphics will be
amazing, but all they showed was the controller and it doesn’t look
m u c h d i f f e r e n t f r o m t h e P l a y S t a t i o n 3 . ”
As Sony takes the first step, it is common practice for others to
follow. Microsoft has yet to officially announce a new console.
A & E, Page 13
Dylan Dalsanto, ‘15, mentioned, “Other makers will probably
follow, but no have yet to do anything.”
If a new console is released, a whole new line of games will
have to be made especially for the console.
Clinton Buretz, ‘14, exclaimed, “I love the line of games released
especially for Play Station 3! I can’t wait for what’s to come
with the PlayStation 4.”
The age old gaming question is soon to be brought up again: Is
the PlayStation or Xbox better? Now with a new console on the way
for PlayStation, Xbox has some ground to make up.
Dalsanto attested, “PlayStation is better. The internet is free of
charge and Xbox just sucks in general.”
Video games are seen as forms of entertainment for most, but
for others it can be more meaningful.
Cox stated, “They’re just hobbies. But it really is a way to get
away from everything else.”
Video games can also be a lifelong form of entertainment for
some.
Chronister thought, “I grew up gaming. I’ll probably be gaming
more in the future than I do right now.”
With the release of the new console, Sony has raised hopes,
questions, and ignited publicity about their new secretive console.
Staff Pick of the Month: Don’t Panic by All Time Low
This American band got their start in 2003 and instantly fell within the punk-pop
genre. The band released their debut studio album, The Party Scene, in July of
2005. Other albums include: So Wrong, It’s Right (released September 2007),
Nothing Personal (released July 2009), Dirty Work (released in June 2011), and
most recently, Don’t Panic which was released of October 9 of this past year.
Bye Bye Birdie flies into Mt. Vernon
By Rachel Kirsch
VERNOIS NEWS
STAFF
After months of planning and practicing, MV staff and students
staged the annual operetta performance of Bye Bye Birdie on March
7, 8, and 9 in Schweinfurth Auditorium.
The first audition were held in January. Since then, the cast,
crew, and orchestra grew to include over one hundred students.
Tickets were sold for $5.00 at the door. Around 1,800 people
attended the performances.
Rehearsals for the show were every day for two months either
right after school or during the evening. Rehearsals were even
scheduled on school holidays and a snow day.
Ashtyn Cornett, ‘15, “You almost always have time to do homework
when you are not on the stage, but the week of the performances
I dedicate my complete self to the show and do little to no
homework and catch up on it over the weekend. It was worth it
though!”
Main characters consisted of Grace McDowell, ‘13, as Rosie Alvarez,
Cody Wilson, ‘13, as Albert Peterson, and Bethaney Brown, ‘13,
as Kim MacAfee. Other main characters included Conrad Birdie
played by JJ Wiegel, ‘14, and Mrs. Mae Peterson portrayed by Cornett.
-Maggie Aaron
Wilson stated, “Some of the best memories I’ve had here at the
high school have been in operetta. I’m very privileged to have taken
part in it.”
From the veterans to the newcomers, the cast enjoyed themselves.
“I loved operetta! I can’t wait for next year,” expressed costume
and makeup crew member Shalyn Koch, ‘15.
Director Mrs. Mary Beth Mezo handed up her seventh year production.
Mrs. Mezo explained that the best part for her is working
with the kids.
“[The best part is] watching the teenagers grow from not having
their lines memorized to playing absolutely incredible parts,” Mrs.
Mezo shared.
Operetta takes massive amounts of effort and time to produce,
and so many were involved to create it.
The part that took the most effort for Olivia Bailey, ‘14, was
learning all the danced. Bailey exclaimed, “I was not blessed with
dancing skills!”
Mrs. Mezo expressed congratulations to the entire cast, crew
and orchestra.
She also wishes to thank everyone who attended the performances
and anyone who supported the show in any way.
For more operetta coverage, see The Buzz, pages 8 and 9.

VERNOIS NEWS
Juniors excel in athletic pursuit
B
A
S
E
B
A
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L
S
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F
T
B
A
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Sports, Page 14
T
R
A
C
K
Name: Brock Fulkerson
Age: 17
Birth Date: 9/17/95
Favorite Color: Chartreuse
When did you start Baseball: Probably at age
five
Favorite Food: Crab Legs
Favorite Class: Driver Ed Assistant
Memorable Moment: Winning conference in
baseball three years running
School Activities: Baseball
What do you like most about high school:
Baseball and just being around all of my
friends
T
E
N
N
I
S
Name: Nathan Arnold
Age: 17
Birth Date: 1/21/96
Favorite Color: Blue
When did you start Tennis: When I was
eight
Favorite Food: Steak
Favorite Class: Pre-calculus
Memorable Moment: Getting punched
School Activities: Operetta, Tennis, Soccer,
NHS, Band, Orchestra, Choir, and Speech and
Acting
What do you like most about high school:
Getting to be with my friends
Name: Malorie Garner
Age: 16
Birth Date: 5/9/96
Favorite Color: Purple
When did you start playing Softball:
When I was three
Favorite Food: Mexican
Favorite Class: Spanish
Memorable Moment: I have dementia, so
probably nothing
What do you like most about high school:
Seeing my BFF’s Page Clinton and Ashley Ess
Name: Katelynn Jones
Age: 17
Birth Date: 12/01/95
Favorite Color: Pink and Purple
When did you start Track: I started in
8th grade
Favorite Food: Spaghetti
Favorite Class: Mrs. Gamber for Algebra
2
Memorable Moment: Playing ninja after
class freshman year
T
R
A
C
K
&
F
I
E
L
D
School Activities: Track and football manager
What do you like most about high school:
Being able to see my friends and meet new
Name: Crayton Turner
Age: 17
Birth Date: 12/8/95
Favorite Color: Orange and black
When did you start Track: Since birth
Favorite Food: Steak
Favorite Class: AP History
Memorable Moment: When I won my first
race Freshman year
What do you like most about high school:
Seeing my friends everyday
S
O
C
C
E
R
Name: Kirsten McGowen
Age: 16
Birth Date: 4/16/96
Favorite Color: Teal
When did you start playing Soccer: 2nd
Grade
Favorite Food: Cantaloupe
Favorite Class: Mrs. Elliott for Pre-Calculus
Memorable Moment: When we beat Marion
last year!
School Activities: Soccer and Volleyball
What do you like most about high school:
Playing soccer with some of my closest
friends.
Go RAMS and LADY RAMS!

VERNOIS NEWS Sports, Page 15
Rams off to quick start
By Collin Young
VERNOIS NEWS
SPORTS EDITOR
The MV Rams boys baseball team is off to a
great start in their early season.
They have a current record of 3-0.
“Everything has been clicking. Good
pitching, defense, and hitting are good so
far,” stated Landon Thomas, ‘13.
The baseball team has been hard at it
on the field, weight room, and in the classroom.
Sawyer Harrison, ‘13, explained, “Our
practices consist of a lot of fundamental
work. We split up between infield, outfield,
and catchers. Then we split up into hitting
stations.”
Every team wants to have a good season
and make a run in the post season.
Thomas mentioned, “I feel being prepared
is a big key but also being team oriented
is really big as well.”
There have been many teams full of
great players but have crumbled because of
the attitude and atmosphere. The Rams do
not seem to have this issue.
“The team has a brotherhood atmosphere.
I know I could trust anyone on the
team. Everyone is for everyone,” commented
Harrison.
“Leadership ability amongst seniors and
team cohesiveness are amongst our best
qualities,” added Thomas.
The great teams look forward to all
games but there are always the games that
stick a little more.
Harrison explained, “I look forward to
Lady Rams begin prosperous season
the games that are going to be our biggest
challenges so we can improve ourselves as a
team.”
The Rams have high expectations for
their season and they push themselves to
be the best they can.
Thomas explained, “I do not have anything
personal, I just want to help my team
in the best way that I can.”
Landon Thomas and Tyler Ellis will be
attending Rend Lake College on a baseball
scholarship next year.
Sawyer Harrison will be continuing his
playing career at Illinois College.
The MV Rams baseball team is scheduled
to play Waterloo at home Wednesday.
There will travel to Triad on Friday, and
Mattoon for a doubleheader on Saturday.
By Emily Kniffen
VERNOIS NEWS
STAFF
MV’s 2013 spring sport seasons have officially kicked off. Softball
season begins and players are excited to get on the field.
All of the girls, new players and old, have goals for their season.
“My main goal for this year is to start varsity,” claimed Karli
Verheyen, ‘15.
“My goal is to have an enjoyable season. I really hope the team
will continue to work well together and have a positive attitude. I
also hope that our team can make it to regionals and go in the post
season,” explained Summer Karch, ‘13.
With the new season brings a new coach, Lance Boldt, makes
his debut. “I really enjoy being at practice with the new coaches.
We all work well together so it is a positive change,” mentioned
Lauren Wilson, ‘15.
Playing a sport takes a lot of time and energy for high school
students. Coming back every year isn't always an option.
Trying to balance family, friends, jobs, and homework have the
potential to get overwhelming.
What exactly brings these girls back every year?
“It is very fun and I love to stay active during springtime,” expressed
Hannah Carbonaro, ‘15.
“I come back every year because I absolutely love softball. I
have so much fun with the sport while playing it. It will and always
will be my favorite sport,” noted Karch.
“It is a very mental game, but also very physical, that is what
brings me back each year,” stated Verheyen.
In the first week of May, seniors will graduate, and for many MV
softball girls, this will be their last time to play softball.
“I have never regretted playing softball through high school. I
am nothing short of excited for my senior year of softball. No matter
what it will end well,” commented Karch.
For the girls it seems like good thoughts for the season.
“We have a great team so I see nothing short of a winning season,”
mentioned Bailee Huff, ‘15.
“The best part is that we all have relationships on and off
the field. That is what makes us such a strong team. We want to
see each other succeed,” said Wilson.
Endless Glo
Tanning Salon
“Get Your Glo On”
618-315-6225
endlessglo@gmail.com

VERNOIS SPORTS
Volume 91 - Issue 8 GO RAMS AND LADY RAMS! March 2013
MV Baseball looks ahead toward another winning season
On the diamond: The MV baseball team begins season with a win against Pinckneyville.
VERNOIS NEWS photo/Lifetouch
To Inform,
Educate,
Enlighten
and
Entertain
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“I don't have any tricky plays, I'd rather have tricky
players.”-Abe Lemons