2012_Vernois News - Mount Vernon Township High School

NewsVERNOIS NEWS News, Page 3By Hannah PiercyEDITOR IN CHIEFContinued from page 1Sweetheart stirs up studentexcitementBy Kaitlyn BossVERNOIS NEWSHave you started thinking of whoyou will ask? How you will ask?If not, now us the time tostart planning for the 2012Sweetheart Dance at MV.This year‟s dance will be heldon February 18 from 8 pm to 11pm in Changnon Gym. Thetheme is “Alice in Wonderland.”“The theme was chosen by amajority vote of Hi-Tri membersand it offers so much opportunityfor fun,” Mrs. Carol Hutchisonexplained.Students can use their imaginationsand come dressed ascharacters from Alice in Wonderland.“Everyone should want to goto the dance to hang out withtheir friends, dance their heartsout, and just have fun!” NatalieHensley, „15, exclaimed.Students can purchase ticketsfor the dance starting February 6to February 10. Tickets will besold before and after school inthe library.“This year, everyone shouldat least plan on going to Sweetheart.It‟s super fun, and seniors...it‟sone of our last dances,”Bethany Allen, „12, expressed,The members of Hi-Tri havebeen working hard since beforeChristmas break in order tomake this year‟s dance as successfulas possible.“I‟m really excited for thedance. It‟s really good bondingtime for me and the other girls,”Allen stated. “It‟s the biggestproject that Hi-Tri does.”Freshman Hi-Tri members getto experience being a part of theSweetheart Dance preparationsfor the first time.Hensley commented, “So farI like it a lot. It‟s really cool toget to know different girls who Inormally wouldn‟t see due todifferent schedules.”There are also other eventsset up by Hi-Tri membersplanned to happen before thedance.“Hi-Tri Council membershave decided to have a „TwistedTea Party‟ prior to the dance,”Hutchison explained. “Studentswho purchase dance tickets willreceive an invitation to the teaparty with more information atthat time.”MV students may also beginvoting for class kings and queensstarting early February.The winners will be crownedat the dance.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 inthe transition from grade school to high school. Through FreshmenAcademy, students are able to experience the freedom of highschool, with the support of core teachers and their fellow teammates.A unique aspect of Freshmen Academy is the separate freshmanlunch. The freshmen eat lunch at 12:30, after the upperclassmen, inthe cafeteria. All freshmen are required to stay on campus for theirclosed-campus lunch.“I don‟t personally like the separate freshmen lunch because Ican‟t be with all my friends,” explained Ashley Henry, 15‟.Although freshmen don‟t have the freedom to leave campus duringlunch, Alex O‟Neal, 15‟, believes the separate freshman lunch isa quick way to make friends.Henry also added, “It‟s an opportunity to get to know otherfreshmen.”With our high school having such a small cafeteria, it is impossiblefor all of our freshmen to fit, therefore, teachers open thelounge for students to eat and allow students to go outdoors whenthey are finished.“I spend my lunch time in the cafeteria with my friends that Iwent 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 separatelunch.Scott expressed, “What I‟ll miss most about freshmen lunch, isthe time. I heard from upperclassmen that they always have to rushif they go off campus. However, I am very excited that I‟ll get theopportunity to go off campus with my upperclassmen friends nextyear.”Do you play any sports?Yes, I play baseball.Freshmen SpotlightSam StormentWhat do you like most about freshman year?What I like most is finally having classes with my friends from otherschools.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 studentsfrom grade school?I have made many new friends during high school, and I am still friendswith some of my grade school friends.Do you enjoy Freshman Academy?I do not enjoy Freshman Academy. Eating the same lunch in the crampedcafeteria every day gets very old.What extracurricular activities do you participate in, or wish to participatein?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 ama 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 friendsfrom other schools that we never got to see before.Is there anything you want to accomplish in your four years of highschool?I want to go to state in baseball and become valedictorian.VERNOIS NEWS … HAVE YOU READ IT?

VERNOIS NEWS Feature, Page 5Senioritis affects someBy Falyn VanDykeVERNOIS STAFFSecond semester offers manydifferent emotions for seniors.Not only is it the end of theirhigh school career, but theyhave to say good bye to lifelongfriends before they leave forcollege.In the last few months of theyear, senioritis starts to show.Laziness sets in, studentsbegin to slack, and homeworkgets ignored.“When I was a junior I didn'tthink it was going to be as bad aseveryone said, but it is,” commentedAnnalee Schuettee, „12.Moving from junior to a seniorstudents underestimate thepowers of the infamous senioritis.“Senioritis has already startedbefore senior year rolledaround,” mentioned Ariana Moffit,„12.They‟ve differed from whatthey were first semester.“I knew I needed to keep mygrades up and make sure I hungout with all my old friends beforethe year ended,” explainedMakayla Winkler, „12.“I‟m more focused on findingscholarships now. I spend timefinding a college last semester,”added Moffit, „12.Students involved in sportswould even say that school workcomes second to sports, but evensports have been moved fromtop priority to last.“With football season over,I‟ve has more time to focus onschool work. Academics first,athletics second,” stated DanielMorrison, „12.For most students, onewouldn't believe homeworkwould be a huge priority, but forthese seniors it is.“I definitely set aside specificnights just to study and dohomework assignments. It‟sworked great so far,” noted Winkler,„12.“I try to stay ahead of thegame and study in the little freetime I have,” claimed Schuettee,„12.Some students are evenlucky enough not to be toophased by senioritis.“I don't think I‟m strugglingwith senioritis, to be honest. Ifanything I‟d like to have anotheryear here. As much as everyonesays they hate Mt. Vernon andthe high school, it‟s my home.I‟m going to miss it,” expressedMorrison, „12.Freshmen begin drivingBy Makayla SmithVERNOIS STAFFTheir hearts pound, their sweatypalms grip the steering wheel,their minds race.They‟re freshmen, and theyare driving for the first time.For a lucky few, waiting hasbeen eliminated to start Driver‟sEd.Learning they‟re going to begetting behind the wheel as afreshman can make butterfliesflutter in their stomachs.“I was overjoyed!” MiriamHester, ‟15, exclaimed.Karli Verheyen, ‟15, laughed,“It makes me feel old.”“I felt scared and excited atthe same time,” Dava Smith, ‟15,declared.For some MV freshmen, gettinga permit will mean addedresponsibilities.“I‟ll be responsible for drivingto town and to church on theweekends,” Hester noted.Mallory McMahan, ‟15, added,“I have to be careful, drive safe,and not violate any of the rulesbecause I don‟t want to lose mypermit.”Of course, before they getbehind the wheel, they have tolearn the basics.“Currently in class we arelearning about laws for driving,how to drive, and being safewhile diving,” explained MadalinaOverstreet, ‟15.“The class is fun and gettingto drive is fun,” commented Verheyen.McMahan added, “I love theclass and getting to drive makesit that much better!”There is an area that‟sstressed heavily in Driver‟s Ed:safety.“I hope to become a safe driver,”Smith admitted.But the freedom of drivingcomes with a price. Starting January1, Illinois enacted stricterlaws for teenage drivers.Among the many changes arethings like curfews being shortenedby an hour, teens will haveto keep a driving learner‟s permitfor nine months instead of three,and teens with a graduated driver‟slicense will have to driveviolation-free for six months bythe time they‟re eighteen beforethey can become eligible for anunrestricted license.“Personally, I think no matterhow aggravating the laws may beto other people, the laws are forour benefit and it helps keep everyonesafe,” Overstreet commented.MaryMorgan ‘15Well, it‟s just like any otherschool, just a lot more walking!It was a bit confusing atthe beginning of the year, but Igot t he hang of it after abouta week or two. The best partof my day is always hangingout and talking to my friends.Mrs. LauraWoodsSpanishIn my high school, there werestricter rules about dress.Even though our classroomswere not air-conditioned, wewere not allowed to wearshorts ever. We also could notwear sweat pants. We had 2or 3 security guards who patrolledthe halls and stoppedstudents who were in the hallsduring class time. We werenot allowed to wear coats orcarry backpacks to class.

Page 6, NewsWhat’sJumpin’Jessi?By Jessi ClarkNEWS EDITORProm Answers AtLastThough it‟s only January, promis underway.The junior prom committeehas been working hard to fundraisefor the memorable nightwe are all looking forward to.Questions have been raisedas to where prom is locatedthis year and what is plannedfor the night.The theme of the 2012prom is “A Night Under theStars.” The dance will be heldon April 28.Prom will be a little differentthis year than it has beenin the previous years.Instead of the Holiday InnHotel, prom will be located on42nd Street where the newLogan Street Baptist Church isto be being built.Prom will be held under thepavilion in a type of rentaltent. No, that does not mean itwill be outside.The tent will be enclosed.It will include windows, awooden dance floor, and heating/airconditioning.The prom tent will haveplenty of room for coronationand the dance itself. Therewill be separate areas for bothevents.Bathrooms will be installedfor usage as well. As for parking,mandatory valet parkingwill be available.Juniors, you still have achance to be on prom committee.The next meeting is February8 in Mrs. Tieffel‟s room,208 H. Remember, it‟s yourprom too.By Jessi ClarkVERNOIS NEWSStudent Council prepares formidwinter coffeehouseVERNOIS NEWSGOP candidates vie for top spotsBy Brendan HillVERNOIS STAFFCoffeehouses have become a popular event at MV.The midwinter coffeehouse will occur on February15.“The coffeehouse is a place where students cancome and eat, hang out, enjoy music, poetry,sketches, and fun and exciting people,” stated OliviaAshby, „15.Food is provided to all who come to coffeehouse.“The MV Student Council usually prepares for thecoffeehouse by calling local food places such as Subwayand Buffalo Wild Wings to donate food. OtherStudent Council members provide the drinks and avariety of other things like chips and cookies,” Ashbyadded.The coffeehouse is usually held in 119H.“We bring chairs and couches into 119H so everyonecan have a place to sit, hang out, and relax,”Ashby explained.The Student Council meets up in order to preparefor the event.Newt Gingrich or Ron Paul? Mitt Romney or RickSantorum?The final four candidates for the 2012 presidentialelection have been debating and campaigningthroughout the country.These four are the only left out of the elevencandidates for the Republican party.There have been three chances these Republicancandidates to show voter enthusiasm. This includestwo primaries and one caucus.The Iowa Caucus took place on January 3. Accordingto www.usatoday.com, Rick Santorum stolethe lead with 24.6% of the votes. Mitt Romneycame in with a close second of 24.5%Following the Iowa Caucus was the New HampshirePrimary on January 10. Mitt Romney came infirst place with 39.3% of votes while Ron Paulplaced second with 22.9% votes.Last but definitely not least, the South CarolinaPrimary was on January 21. Newt Gingrich locked infirst place with 40.4% votes over Mitt Romney with27.8% votes.The voting session will take place in the Floridaprimary on January 31.As for the Democrat party candidate, the incumbentPresident Barack Obama will be running for hissecond term.President Obama spoke on January 24 in histhird State of the Union address.Some say, that was the beginning on his campaignfor his second term as president.The 57th presidential election will be held onTuesday, November 6, 2012.“We have a committee for the coffeehouse andthey have meetings where they plan out the coffeehouse,”commented Trey Riley, „15.The attendance to the coffeehouse has grownsince it has become popular.“I‟m not really sure on the exact umer of studentsthat attend, but at the last coffeehouse I thinkwe had over 100 people,” exclaimed Felicia Wagner,„15.The coffeehouse is a place where students canshow off their talent.“At the last coffeehouse I attended, I preformeda song,” admitted Wagner.Many people enjoy the coffeehouse.“I didn‟t really know what the coffeehouse wasuntil I attended one and it was so much fun! Therewas good food and a lot of great performances. Iplan on going to all of the future ones,” expressedShayln Koch, „15.The coffeehouse is an opportunity for all MV studentsto come together and have a great time.

EditorialVERNOIS NEWS Editorial, Page 7VERNOIS NEWSA VERNOIS PUBLICATIONS GROUP NewspaperEditorial Board:Hannah Piercy, Editor in ChiefPaisley Stewart, Managing EditorMr. Jamey VanZandt, AdviserVernois ViewsStaff Commenton theNew Year2012 Equals New BeginningMV embarks on a new semester, a new year, andnew beginnings.As 2012 continues into late January, we leave2011 behind with only the good memories.With the commencement of a new year, peopletend to reflect upon the past as well as consideringthe future.For most, resolutions mean giving up something,but how about resolving to do something meaningfulinstead.The new year is a new start; set goals and accomplishthe dreams you have.Resolutions are seen as cliché, but they do nothave to be the traditional “I want to lose weight” or“spend more time with friends”. Resolving to accomplishthese are great, but go above and take the opportunityto make improvements to your life andthose around you.2012 may just be another year, but it symbolizesso much more.For freshmen, it is realizing they have survivedthe first semester of high school. They are reassuredin their navigation and management of high school.Sophomores can remember the time they havespent so far at MV, realizing they have almostreached the midway point of their secondary education,and observing how they have matured in thesepast years.More than ever, juniors shift their attention tocollege and future endeavors. They are experiencingwhat is known as the hardest year of their academiclives and are preparing for what is to come.As for seniors, they see the finish line. Theyare almost at the conclusion of the race, and readyto be. With the best part of their four years completed,they are prepared to make the most out ofthese final months.Vernois News encourages all MV students toset new goals and expectations for the new year.2012 can be anything you want it to be, so make themost of this new year.“This year I want to pass all of my classeswith an A or B … hopefully!”-Falyn VanDyke“This year I want to be healthierand be as nice as I can toother people.”-Shannon Docherty“I hope the new year brings great new memories,friendships, andexperiences. I hope 2012 will continue to be anawesome year.”-Brendan Hill“I like how a new year motivatespeople to make better decisions.Hopefully they will continue to make thosebetter decisions.”-Makayla Smith“I hope I can make the best of the littletime I have left here at MV andto have no regrets.”-Rance Cummings“I want to get my head back on straight with mygoals and I also wanta stronger relationshipwith God.”-Michael Jones“Take 2012 as an opportunity to find and createyourself … after all that is what high schoolis all about. Explore your taste and interest to rediscoveryour passion. Life is what you make it, sobegin withmaking this year great.”-Paisley Stewart“My goal for 2012 is to be a better personand nicer to everyone.”-Collin Young

I graduated from MV in1993. Everyone had to takethe semester exams, but ifwe met the attendance requirementswe got an extra10 pts on it.Mrs. KileyDochertyMr. RyanRobinsonI went to a smaller highschool, so many thingswere different. Often, theupperclassmen befriendedthe freshmen.In high school, girlsweren’t allowed to wearslacks and guyscouldn’t wear jeans.Mrs. DebbieNelson“High school is just one babystep into the life you will or haveplanned to create. It holds all ofthe challenges that turn into experiences,holds a tiny portionof answers to your questions,and gives you the freedom tostart to become someone greator someone who wished to havebecome even greater. Highschool contains a spell that eitherchanges you for better orworse. It’s just up to you if youdecide to overcome that spellby becoming great and lookingback at the baby steps youlearned to accomplishinto a steady walk.”-MadalinaOverstreetMrs. TerryBlackGet involved. Meet newpeople. Study now.Don’t be afraid to trysomething new.Don’t buy any elevatortickets.Ms. TamiLovinMr. DavidKassnerStay in school. Workhard. Try to learn asmuch as you can. Getinvolved in activities.Have fun!I see myself with good gradesand on a path to college … maybeeven graduating early.Catarina BellAs a senior, I hope I’m involved ineverything and have good gradesto get into a good college. I wantmy senior year to be something toremember.Shayln KochA Rockin’ Ram with good gradespreparing to become an adult andlive on my own.Haley LamkeHopefully, ranked in basketballand on my way to a good college.Bryce HunterI see myself taking advanced classesor even some college courses if I getall of my credits for high school.Ashtyn CornettI see myself as accomplished, because Ihave set a goal to be in every Operettathere is while I’m in high school.Caleb Vaughn

I would like to get better grades,become more social, and becomemore independent.Felicia WagnerGetting a great education andhopefully I’ll go to some greatcollege after that.Become a bowling star or getover my fear of speaking in frontof a crowd.Danielle VentersI want to figure out who I am andwhat I want to do with the rest ofmy lifeBrooke LaceyDavarr DavisI would like to become moreinvolved, work hard, and try tomake a good future.Autumn LongI will hopefully be captain of thestate-bound Mt. Vernon Rams footballteamGraham HenkenI’m a member of band, studentcouncil, and I am one of the fourRam mascots.Samuel SimpsonI text my friends, hang out withfriends, spend time with thefamily, and go to church.Samantha RiddleI really never have free time becauseof basketball practice andgames.Anthony RossI am in student council, FBLA, andam in Tech Crew for our schoolplays and productions.Olivia AshbyI joined the wrestling team, FFA,and plan to try out for the tennisteam.Dalton BarnesI am involved in basketball,StuCo, Football, and baseball.Dylan Reeves

Page 10, ColumnsAlis VolatPropriisBy Hannah PiercyEDITOR IN CHIEFColumnsSenioritis: downfall of senior yearAn epidemic that has plaguedAmerica for years, continues toaffect lives all across the U.S.The symptoms show up everyyear. Seniors are overwhelmedwith extracurricular activities, jobs, scholarships,and a social life. Homework is soon placed on theback burner and isn’t thought about until it’s toolate.The diagnosis? Senioritis.Senioritis is easy to catch but it’s so hard toshake.Like every other year, a senior begins theschool year with goals of straight A’s and zerotardies. Their energy level is at it’s peak: readyto work, ready to change, and ready to be thekings of the school. To our dismay, that superficial energy quicklyruns 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 ateenager to a young adult; however, it’s more of a chaotic change.Is too muchexpected froma high schoolsenior?VERNOIS NEWSAs a senior, I know the difficulties of keeping up with a job, myextracurricular activities, church, grades, and family; it isn’t an easytask.We are expected to fill out scholarship applications, apply to theright 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 hundredpercent to all of our activities. We are the varsityplayers on our sports teams. We are the headofficers of our clubs. We are the leaders of thisschool.Not only is it our responsibility to promote ourhigh school and do our school work, but we mustplan for the rest of our lives.The excitement that develops from an unchartedfuture often distracts us from the task athand; therefore we see another case of senioritisflare.It would behoove us to take control of senioritisand hold out for a little while longer. This isit seniors! Let’s make it the best of the best!We have 114 more days to be high school seniors. Although wemay feel overwhelmed, bored, and ready to leave, let’s hold on andenjoy the ride together!Harry Potter proves beneficial to lifeOb-La-Di, Ob-La-DaBy Paisley StewartMANAGINGEDITOR1090739 words, 3363 pages, 199 chapters, 17 hoursand 14 minutes, 8 movies,7 books, and 1 story.For the past severalyears our generation hasembraced the magic that is Harry Potter.As a child I remember reading eachbook, anxiously attending the movies, waitingin line at midnight to be in the firstround of people who got to hold the newestaddition to the series into my hand, andfinally finishing the books with more than atinge of sadness.Theme parks have miles of land dedicatedto it, teenagers carry around fake (Imean “real”) wands, and it is not uncommonto speak in Harry Potter lingo.I personally follow the one and onlyLord Voldermort on twitter.While this might seem like a lot offuss over something that is purely fiction I have never viewed as it asthat.You see, I am convinced that sometimes you have to escapeinto fantasy to know reality.As high schools we find ourselves immersed in a busy scheduleof school, work, and extracurricular, we cut out activities so that weVERNOIS NEWS graphic/http://nicegirlstv.comThe iconic trio of Harry, Ron, and Hermione spend theirtime studying magic at Hogwarts. The actors brought tolife J.K Rowling's Novels.can get more sleep or catch up on our favorite T.V shows; readingfor pleasure is usually the first to go.The extent of our reading becomes thirty-five minutes in Englishclass, latest Facebook statuses, or the small bits that are encompassedinto homework.This is a sad reality in my opinion.Engaging in literature is extremelybeneficial.It is proven that reading, if even for a shortperiod of time a day, can drastically raiseACT and state testing scores.Not only does reading have academicbenefits but social and personal as well.The many wise words of Dumbledorestick in my head as lessons.“Its our choices, Harry, that show whatwe truly are, far more than our abilities.”,“It does not do to dwell on dreams and forgetto live”, and “It takes a great deal ofbravery to stand up to your enemies, but agreat deal more to stand up to your friends.”I am not saying to read Harry Potter, Iam saying however to read something.Try a new genera if you have yet tofind you literary interest.Between horror, fantasy, sci-fi, realistic fiction, romance, andso many others out there, I promise there are novels for everyone.I found the magic of reading at a young age beginning at Number4 Privet Drive and ending at Hogwarts; I hope everyone can findthe magic and benefits of literature for themselves as well.

ColumnsVERNOIS NEWS Columns, Page 11Boyer dares to dreamI Dare You to MoveBy Ashton BoyerVERNOIS NEWSDr. Laura Schlessinger once said, “When you dare to dream, dare tofollow that dream, dare to suffer through the pain, sacrifice, selfdoubts,and friction from the world.”Remember when we were kids, when we used to constantlydream?We used to dream big, never thinking about the impossibility thatmight stop us in our tracks.Often we dreamed about things that lined up with our passionsand 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 smartenough.That so-called reality dashed our hopes and dreams.In the process, we began to live lives devoid of hope and began tosettle for average and status-quo.We not only lost our dreams, but in the process, we forgot how todream.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 livedlife to the fullest?What if we didn't try to put limits on ourselves or our ability tolearn something?What if we begin to not feel failure?Making decisions changes livesBrendan’s BreakdownBy Brendan HillVERNOIS NEWSDecisions.We make them every day.Whether it’s a small as what you eat in the morning or somethingas big as what you would like to do withyour life.These decisions may be very difficult tomake sometimes.As the New Year began I started tothink back on the previous year about howmany decisions I had to make.Everyone makes millions and millions ofdecisions throughout a year.For students they make many decisionsin high school.They make them in school everyday.They make the decision on whether ornot they should take their schoolwork seriouslyor just get by.High school is the time where most students start learning to makemost 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 schoolor will they slack off and make bad choices?It’s their decision.“There are times wewill make the wrongdecision. If we remainpositive we will learnfrom these mistakes.”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 itwas.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 unstoppablestate of defying every odd that’s against you.The greatest leaders know only the standards set by their dreamsof what is truly possible, and the best time to start dreaming big isnow. No matter where you are in life, it is never too early to broadenyour vision of what's possible.Big dreams are where it all starts, from your earliest dreams ofbecoming an astronaut or a baseball player, to your dreams of goingto college, writing a book, or owning your dream car, if you do notdream of it first, you will never actualize it isn't your life.You see, no one in this world has ever created or accomplishedanything without first seeing it in their mind.The greatest achievers in human history have been those with thebiggest 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 destinyof the world.Though dreams, goals, and desires we have the power to createsomething just as extraordinary as the greatest leaders in the world.Through dreams, through imagination, the mission and vision willcome as soon as you release your perceived limitations and allow yourStudents always make decisions on what people they hang around.Our friends have a big impact on us and we decide we want to befriends.This is a big decision that is made by teens as they enter highschool.It was definitely a decision I had to make.Friends influence our decisions we make.They could help us to make the rightdecision or turn us on the wrong path.Dating and relationships are also majorchoices that are made in life.Who students want to be with is a bigdecision made my students all the time.Each of these decisions will lead to aconsequence.We are always making decisions, so weneed to learn how to make responsible andcareful choices.Sometimes we wonder whether we aremaking the right choices.There are times when we will make thewrong decisions.If we remain positive we will learn from these mistakes.When a tough decision comes along, students should try to realizehow this choice will affect their life and if it is truly the right thing todo.

Page 12, ColumnsSmith shares saga of some new kittensMakayla’s MusingsBy Makayla SmithVERNOIS STAFFNo protection from mice. Little meows. Noises outside.These can only mean one thing: our neighbor’s kittens have takenresidence on my porch.I love kittens. Cats in general, really. Sowhen the kittens showed up at our doorstep,my family was ready to feed them.However, I don’t think we knew at thetime they were our neighbor’s.Our neighbor wanted the kittens to bemice eaters, so they didn’t feed them. Butthey were really little and really young, sothey needed to be fed. They weren’t readyfor mice chasing and eating.And once someone gives a cat some food,the cat knows where to go when he or she ishungry.So, of course, the two sister kittens stayedon our porch. They enjoyed napping on therocking chairs.But my mom was adamant that we weren’tabout to let two more kittens stay in ourhouse, since we already have three cats. We got two of our threeindoor cats in about the same way: they’re here, they’re kittens,they don’t have their momma nearby, and they’re adorable. Also,they need food.Taylor’s TalesBy Taylor RobertsVERNOIS STAFFVERNOIS NEWS photo/Makayla SmithSmith displays her new kittens, Maria and Marissa.The kittens have grown to love the Smithfamily.Imagine handing a stack of college applications to a group of fourteenand fifteen year olds. These are the people whose biggest issueis who they are going to sit by at lunch.During the last month, some of thefreshman classes have been trying to setup a plan for the rest of their lives. Theclasses were instructed to write downtheir goals for after high school. In someclasses they even had to explain howthey planned to accomplish these goals.A lot of answers for the freshmenincluded, “I haven’t thought much aboutcollege,” or maybe an answer such as, “Ihave a hard time thinking about tomorrow'shomework, and college doesn’treally cross my mind”.Another common answer is “I think Iwill just stay here and go to Rend Lake”.Personally, that is not my plan for afterhigh school.After I graduate, I want to go to college far away from here andget used to the idea of living on my own. After high school, I wantto be getting closer to being fully independent.When I tell people that I have already been on college tours, theylook at me like I am a crazy person. In fact, I am only 15 years oldand college is still about three and a half years away.VERNOIS NEWSOur neighbors have been out of the house a lot for various reasons,so they hadn’t noticed that the kittens were gone yet. Whenthey returned, we let them take the kittens back to their house,since they were rightfully theirs.Then, the kittens were back on our porch. I think the neighborsfinally realized the kittens preferred life at my house.Our neighbors had to leave again withhouse issues, so we watched over their kittens,feeding and petting them.Then, they got in. So we let them stay in awhile and out then put them out.Then we let them stay inside longer, andthey started to cuddle with us. The kittenswould get on my lap and snuggle and climb meuntil I gave them attention and petted them. Ididn’t mind, though. They’re adorable.And then, we named them. Their namesare Maria and Marissa.So I guess the kittens are kind of ours now.I think our neighbors realize the kittens areattached to us, as we are to them.Maria and Marissa are currently outdoor kittens,but they come in every day. They’ve alreadylearned to use the litter box, apparently.My mom may still give in and let them stay insideall the time, but I have my doubts. I’m fine with the arrangementwe have now, though.And besides who can resist the crazy cuteness of their kittenfaces?Roberts begins planning for future“I don’t want to gooff to college notknowing what Iwant to do with mylife.”But should people really push back looking at colleges? Eventhough it seems far away now, it is going to be here sooner thansome think.The future is a mystery to everyone, no one is sure what will happenor what will stand in the way of how you plan for your future tobe. But, you should at least know what you want you r future to belike.I personally think that planning forcollege can never come too early. Eventhough I still have three years, I want toexplore all of my options before it’s toolate.I do not want to be stuck in the stickysituation of trying to go see ten differentcolleges on opposite sides of the countryall in one year.The future is a big deal, it is whenwe, as high school students, will becomeadults and will be set on our way to beout on our own. It isn’t a joke andshouldn’t be taken very lightly.Allowing lots of time for planningsuch as a big event in our lives is a wonderfulidea. I don’t want to go off to college not knowing what Iwant to do with my life.So the question remains when is the right time to start planningfor life after high school? I think it is never too early to set goals andstart exploring what is out there and to have an idea of what thefuture could be.

VERNOIS NEWSAaron urges changeMag’s TagsBy Maggie AaronOPINIONS EDITORFreedom of speech, freedom ofreligion, freedom of press,freedom of assembly and petition.There are the basic freedomswhich all American citizensare guaranteed in the Bill of Rights.However, just because these rights areinherently given to us and are almost certainlynever going to go away, does not meanthat we should abuse them.Some people, especially around this campus,seem to think that freedom of speechmeans that they can say whatever they want,whenever they want, to whomever theywant, and that it is acceptable. What happenedto common courtesy towards others,and the cliché we all learned at a young age:if you don’t have anything nice to say, don’tsay anything at all. While that expression issimple enough for a younger audience to understand,the meaning should not be overlookedby those whose age exceeds what weconsider “young”.The freedoms we have been given, weregiven for a serious reason, no so that they canbe abused. Freedom of speech is a wonderfulthing and it allows us to be able to expressreasonable matters.However, wasting our breath talking aboutmeaningless and immature matters such asthe disagreement between Mt. Vernon andWoodlawn students does not seem like thebest use of the right. I’ve heard numerousopinions about it, I’ve seen written insultsand empty threats and somehow, when JamesMadison drafted the first ten amendments tothe Constitution, which later became the Billof Rights, I don’t think he had a pointlessrivalry between two small Illinois town inmind.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 practicewhatever religion we so choose, without ahigher authority telling us we can’t. Therefore,I believe that making fun of other student’sreligious backgrounds on campus infringesupon that right. Discrimination iswrong in any form, but discrimination basedon beliefs it exactly what was trying to beavoided when the right was created.I ask, MV, that we stay away from thatcliché high school image of some studentsbeing put down because they are different inthese beliefs.On campus there are numerous instanceswhere our rights are tested, and when theyare abused. Compared to what was thoughtof when those rights were drawn up, todayscitizen’s do not appreciate them and takethem for granted.Minor favors warmer tempsMinor MeenesBy Kirsten MinorVERNOIS STAFFWinter is officially here. I’ve heard so manypeople hope for snow.However, I hate the cold. Along with hatingthe cold, I also hate snow. I dread the dayswhen it snows.Cold weather is miserable. I always have tobe bundled up in a bunch of layers of clothingand I end up looking like a marshmallow. Itvery uncomfortable.I hate having to wear a massive amount ofclothing, I feel that most comfortable in ashort sleeve shirt and some pants.Beside having to bundle up, there is shivering.I don’t really enjoy when my body feelslike its having mini convulsion because itsfreezing cold. It is bothersome.Then, driving anywhere is a struggle. Thewindows of the car frost up after being leftout in the cold all night.So, to be able to see out of your windowOpinionsyou have to scrape them, which is a huge timeconsumer, but if you don’t clear them it’s obviouslyvery dangerous.The roads are slick and icy, making it somuch easier to get into an accident. If youdrive anything like me, you’re completely awfulanyways, and this makes it so much worse.Even without all of the hazards and things,the cold is just unpleasant. I stay cooped up inmy house all season, because I don't want todeal with the weather.Gladly, this winter hasn’t been too bad sofar. It has been warmer than many past winters.On some days it almost feels like earlyspring.I was really happy that it hadn’t snowed forso long, then on January 12, it did. Sad daythat was.Snow is all right around Christmas time, Ifeel like it helps bring out the Christmas spirit,but anytime other than then thought I cantstand.I’ll just pray that the weather doesn’t gettoo dreadfully bad.Opinions, Page 13What’s your opinion MV?“I believe that evidence is shownthrough science and that thelatest weather phenomenon istrue...”-Nathanial Groh, ‘13, on global warning“I love having the word of Godpermanently on my body, and it’sactually helped me share thegospel several times...”-Kelsey Richardson, ‘12, on Christianswith tattoos.“I hate that movie…”-Aaron Neibert, ‘13, on Twilight“Life is way too short to wasteenergy on things that won’tmatter in the future...”-Lanie Conner, ‘13, on unnecessarydrama“People shouldn’t care as muchabout their own opinions as muchas His because in the end its Hisjudgment that matters…”-Brent Flota, ‘12, on God“I’m never going on a cruisebecause of this…”-Cole Chauncey, ‘13, on The CostaConcordia Disaster“What’s with all the vampires?Why don’t they make more aboutmummies or something?”-Mrs. Teresa Black on Current Films“I dislike unhappy people whomake other people unhappy…”-Reis Barnfield on Happiness

Page 14, OpinionsLend that helping hand, MVGuest OpinionBy Mackenzie ReeverVERNOIS NEWSI wonder if anyone ever thinks about how much food they eat in oneday, compared to how much foodstarving families eat worldwide eat.One major issue and concern Ihave is world hunger.One day I would like to helpstarving families all around theworld through world hunger organizations.Knowing that I helped at leastone family would make me feel likea better person.Trying to understand how somany people are starving in theworld is difficult because there is somuch food around us.Unfortunately, a lot of food iswasted.I think many people, including myself, take food and everythingelse they have granted sometimes.Everyone should take at least one opportunity to help someonein need.Never give up, MVNot Bossin’ Just Sayin’By Kaitlyn BossVERNOIS NEWSJanuary 1 marks that firstday of the New Year. Formany , it is also the first daythey finally decide to makesome changes in their lives,otherwise known as resolutions.The month of January isquickly approaching its lastdays until next year. Most ofthe people who made theseresolutions have probablygiven up or forgotten bynow.I feel as though manypeople decide to make resolutionfor the New Year, butare only doing so becausemany others do. These followersare not truly dedicatedto making changes intheir lives and so they donot follow through.Once they mess up duringthe year, they can’t waituntil the next to repeat thatempty process.I have made these “NewYear’s resolutions” in thepast and I never really felt“Think about how muchyou have, and sacrificesome to help others.”accomplished. To me, itdoes not make a whole lot ofsense to wait until a certainday to finally decide tochange for the better.Now, when I feel theneed to change something Ido not wait until a certainday to begin. I get inspiredto change and motivate todo so on my own time.If you are one of thosepeople who are slacking ontheir resolutions, remotivateyourself and tryagain. Who cares that weare already a couple weeksinto 2012?Just because you’vereached a new start to anew year does not guaranteesuccess without effort. Tobe truly successful withchange you must inspireyourself.So whether your resolutionwas to lose weight, improveyour grades or spendmore time with your family,do not wait for the next NewYear if you mess up. Anytimeis a good time to startover.VERNOIS NEWSBeing involved in a world hunger organization would be a greatexperience for anyone and could make people appreciate everythingthey have.Millions of children and adults die each year from hunger.If everyone took the time and money to donate to world hungerorganizations, at least once amonth or year, the number ofstarving families would slowlydecrease.Something as simple as buyingfood for someone out on thestreets would even make a difference.Most people in starving countrieslive in poverty.They don't have much technologyto other things to help themwith their daily routines.Families have to do everythingon their own, and with no food orenergy; daily life must be a strugglefor them.Think about how much you have, and sacrifice some time to helpothers.Eventually, we can stop world hunger and change the world forthe better.Recipe of the MonthCheddar BiscuitsIngredients:1 pack buttermilk biscuit mix1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese1/2 cup milk2 tbsp. butter1 tbsp. oregano3/4 tsp garlic saltDirections:1. Preheat over to 400 degrees. Spray cooking sheetwith non-stick spray.2. Put biscuit mix, cheese and milk in a bowl and mixwell to form a sticky dough.3. Using spoon, drop lumps of dough onto cookiesheets 1.5 in apart.4. Bake for 10 minutes5. In a bowl, melt butter and mix with oregano andgarlic salt6. When the timer goes off, take them out and brushwith butter mixture and bake 5 min at 400 degreesand another 5-6 min at 350 degrees7. Transfer onto a late and serves immediately

VERNOIS NEWSFreshmen folly on TV choicesEntertainment OpinionBy Michael JonesA&E EDITORJuice Heads, tanned bimbos,loud obnoxious house music, andlots of debauchery: what do allof these have in common?A certain show on MTV comesto mind: Jersey Shore.MV knows this show, basedon the premise of following eightprimadona as they try to showoff for the crowds on the“illustrious” Jersey Coast.Despite glamorizing suchscandalous and immature behavior,some MV freshmen love thisshow.TaylorNowitzke’15,said,“JerseyShore is myfavorite. Ilike the tanguidos.”Thinkabout it: tanguidos, whata great reasonto like ashow.It’s notbecause ofthe cleverhumor, it’sbecausewhat our society values now-adays.“I like the Jersey Shore becauseit’s hilarious!” exclaimedChristian Plumb, ’15.Hilariousness, but what makesthis show funny?Honestly, watching a bunch of30 year olds act like intoxicatedcollege students isn’t funny atall.It’s actually quite said for adultsto act like that.By that age, people should befunctioning members of society,not partying it up on the weekends,and acting a fool.These characters that peoplelove so much are adults, andthey should act like it. Whatwould you think about your parentsacting like that?Would that be funny? Wouldthat be something you wouldwant to watch on television?However, Jersey Shore is notall that is being viewed.Many students choose towatch more productive, moremature shows.Hannah Owens, ’15, explained,“NCIS is probably one ofmy favorite shows. It’s sort ofdorky, but I like trying to solvethe case.”NCIS is one of those showsthat actually make one’s mindwork, trying to figure out clues,and how and why the crimeswere committed, and there ismore to this show than hookingup and drinking.“I like to watch Scrubs, notonly because it’s funny, but becauseitsome-whatrealistic,”commentedN i c h o l a sPearce.S c r u b shas a differentsortof flow toit, and thecomedy is alittle higherlevelVERNOIS NEWS/hollywoodoncrack.netThe Jersey Shore cast lined up showing off theirparticular styles, the large X is appropriate here.A&Ethan justwatchingintoxicatedpeople runamuck.Zac Braff, a star of the show,has a unique humor about himthat is quite entertaining.Looking back on my years atMV, my tastes in entertainmentchoices have changed dramatically.Honestly, it comes with maturity.The drinking, and the provocativenessportrayed on shows likethe Jersey Shore, will becomemore and more mundane untilone will eventually stop watchingit.But freshmen will be freshmen.They will come around,eventually.What’s on my playlist?A&E, Page 15CHECK OUT SOME OF YOURFRESHMEN CLASS’S FAVORITE MOVIES:The Help, Lion King, Mean Girls,A Cinderella Story, The Blind Side,Zombie Land, The TimeTravelers Wife.. And Manymore!By Michael JonesA&E EDITORMike’s SoundstageMy pick for Januarywould have to be “CollyStrings” by Manchester Orchestra.I recently heard this bandand I was instantly taken-aback.This song has definitelybeen added to myfavorites list.

Page 16, A & EVERNOIS NEWSMac vs. PC: which is the better computer?By Avery BartonVERNIOS NEWSNerds argue over the subject: which is better, Mac or PC?It can definitely be argued until the end of time, but is there aright or wrong answer?Or is it all opinion?According to apple.com, upgrading to a mac isn't just upgradingyour computer. It‟s upgrading your whole computing experience.Apple.com states that a mac computer is built to be a bettercomputer.It cannot get viruses, and it is compatible with windows and allof one‟s equipment. According to Mrs. Karen Hamilton, Macs arereally easy.According to wisegeek.com, a PC is the clear winner for a varietyof reasons. More games are available for the PC than for the Mac,and video card technology is constantly evolving to support the lateststandards.Upgrading a PC‟s graphic card is easy with plenty of choicesavailable from low-end cards to extremely expensive cards, includingdual graphics capability (using two cards).Upgrading a Mac is not always possible, and when it is, there islimited hardware available that is typically more expensive than itsBy Paisley StewartManaging Editorequal PC counterpart. “I prefer a PC over a Mac,” stated Matt Stanley,„13. “While I think Macs are very nice, efficient, and have veryhigh quality programs, there is a lack of diversity.”According to wisegeek.com, Mac also comes with some incredibleApple applications that many computer users would say blowsdefault PC apps out of the water.For example, Garage Band is a sound studio application thatnot only provides all the bells and whistles of a standard digital recordingstudio, but also includes video music lessons.Mac is also considered to be the hands-down winner for any typeof professional editing of graphic production software, establishingitself 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 thecomputer, 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 isshould not be purchased,” Stanley continued.Although, many feel like Jagger Ellis, „14, who stated that Macsare too expensive and overrated.Sierra Harrel, „12, commented, “I think they are really nice andyou can do a lot of awesome things with them.”RHCP Rocks Out in 2012Disney Studios has recently begun remakingclassic animation in 3D.Old favorites such as The Lion King andBeauty and the Beast have aired so far.These renditions havebrought childhood alivefor the teenagers who grew up lovingthese movies and also showcased the titlesfor a new generations.By Aryn WigginsVERNOIS NEWSThe Red Hot Chilli Peppers, one ofthe greatest funk rock bands of ourtime, have released (albums sincetheir debut in 1983 and they arestill going strong with a newly releasedalbum called I’m With You.With a new guitarist, some fansare skeptical about the new soundtrackbut others are thinking positiveabout the change.“The new guitarist isn't as goodas the original, he seemed to havebetter lifts and a better connectionwith the band,” stated John MichaelDavis. „12.Thought the band lost one elementit‟s noticeable that they compensatedthe loss with a lot of bass,from their RHCP “Flea.”Every trach has some sort offunky bass style which never getsold and makes the listeners say“How the…”“One of my favorite songs,“Adventures of Rain Dance Maggie”,is on their newest album. I‟m inlove with it,” claimed Devon Riley,„12.Never the less, their last album,Stadium Arcadium, released in2006, was their best-selling album,selling over 1.1 million copies withinthe first week and over 21 millionso far.Stadium Arcadium has a total of28 songs on 2 disc set, while “I‟mWith You,” only has 14.It‟s obvious, it would be hard tocompete but the band is alreadyvery good and with the loss of theirguitarist it would be difficult tomake improvement.“Out of the last two albums theyhave released, I‟d have to say thatStadium Arcadium is by far my favorite,”explained Emily Borah, „14.The band has many year aheadof them and enough time to improvethe skill of their new guitaristand the true loyal fans will wait acouple years for a newer album,while in the meantime going to theRHCP exciting concerts.My music playlist is all theway from Blake Shelton toDrake. I listen to everything,honestly.-Alexandria RichardsonWhat’s on yourplaylist, MV?Rap: Waka Flocka, Lil’ Wayne,Young Jeezy, Yela Wolf, RoscoeDash, Wiz Khalifa, andDrake.-LaMar Williams, Jr.

Page 18, SportsVERNOIS NEWSSOCCERName: Dalton McGowenAge: 14Birth Date: March 24, 1997Favorite Color: OrangeWhen did you start Soccer: 2nd gradeFavorite Food: Chicken Pot PieFavorite Class: Food and NutritionMemorable Moment: Soccer Riot vs. MarionWhat do you like most about high school:Making new friendsSchool Activities: Soccer, Baseball, FCAName: Hannah OwensAge: 15Birth Date: October 14, 1996Favorite Color: PurpleWhen did you start Basketball: 6th gradeFavorite Food: StrawberriesFavorite Class: EnglishBASKETBALLMemorable Moment: Beating Carbondale inovertimeWhat do you like most about high school:All the new friends and having different classesSchool Activities: Volleyball, Basketball,and WYSEWRESTLINGName: Graham HenkenAge: 15Birth Date: October 17, 1996Favorite Color: OrangeWhen did you start Wrestling: This yearFavorite Food: OrangesFavorite Class: EnglishMemorable Moment: Pinning a kid in 16secondsWhat do you like most about high school:I get to see all you myfriendsSchool Activities: FCA, Wrestling, andFootballName: Wade XandersAge: 15Birth Date: December 24, 1996Favorite Color: BlueWhen did you start Cross Country: Highschool. I started going to practice overthe summer of my 8th grade yearFavorite Food: SeafoodFavorite Class: Study Hall!Memorable Moment: Getting my firstguitarWhat do you like most about highschool: More peopleSchool Activities: Cross-country and trackCROSS-COUNTRYName: Abbie ThomsonAge: 14Birth Date: July 9, 1997Favorite Color: NavyWhen did you start Cheerleading: ThisyearFavorite Food: SushiFavorite Class: ArtCHEERLEADINGMemorable Moment: Competition-HighlandWhat do you like most about high school:More freedomSchool Activities: Cheerleading, trackName: London MarlerAge: 15Birth Date: October 6, 1996Favorite Color: GrayWhen did you start playing Football: 5thgradeFavorite Food: ItalianFavorite Class: ArtMemorable Moment: Spending the lastthree months with my grandma. RIP,Nanny!FOOTBALLWhat do you like most about high school:The freedom and meeting all the upperclassmenSchool Activities: Just football

VERNOIS NEWSBy Collin YoungSPORTS EDITORContinued from page 20Their record is currently 12 and 8.Haley Lockhart 13’ stated, “I feel we have really improved in thelast year. We have won more games than the past few years I havebeen 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. Wewill have to look out for them both. Now they come to our homecourt, 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 Carbondalein overtime and winning the Carbondale Tournament's consolationchampionship have to be my favorite moments this season.”A reason for the Lady Rams success this season has been their abilityto stay focused in practice and work on improving their skills fortheir games.“ Our typical practice usually consists of 3 on 2 and layups. Wealso go through shooting drills and going over our next team we willbe facing.”, stated Lockhart.Kage makes huge returnSports, Page 19Regional Championship remains goal for Lady RamsBy Ashton BoyerVERNOIS STAFFContinued from page 20go rams, “pump it up,” go rams!” Ever notice the enthusiasm for thegame and the passion from the sidelinesof Changnon?Chaos can be defined as a state ofutter confusion or disorder; a total lackof organization or order, but to studentsat MV, Khaos is spirit, unity, anda family of Ram fans.“Khaos Kage is a family of completecrazies for Mount Vernon high schoolRam basketball,” explained SpencerAllen.It’s all about the excitement andthat kind of togetherness feeling youget when you’re in the Kage,” addedAriana Moffitt, ’12.Behind the net, MV students showsupport by cheering on the sports teamsat home games. A group tasked withtruly being the sixth man on the court.Senior Clay Payne stated, “It makesus feel like we have an extra player out there.”The student section at Mount Vernon is unlike any other. FThesestudents sport orange and black with pride, and hoping to impact theRams from the sidelines.“Our purpose is to take the adrenaline from the opposing team andgive it directly to our boys,” mentioned Brooke Moore,’12.“We’re there to pump up the players and show overwhelmingschool spirit,” admitted Moffit.One cant miss the section in Changnon where students remainstanding during the game, generate extra decibels of noise, celebrateVERNIOS NEWS: Paisley StewartThe Khaos Kage continues to cheer on our MV Boys Basketball team. The boyswon the “Orange Crush” game against Marion.Motivation and support has been another contributing factor toachieving success through the long basketball season.Owens stated, “I have really great coaches and team mates to giveme support and keep me focused. My dad also pushes me to be mybest.”Kujawa also added, “I think about how much the hard work at thebeginning of the season will pay off during a tough game in the postseason.”The Lady Rams realize their weaknesses and what they need tofocus on to continue their success.“We definitely need to focus on not turning the ball over and convertingon offense.”, exclaimed Lockhart.The post season is approaching quickly and know that in the postseason anyone has a chance.Owens replied, “We have to keep our heads on straight and go outand play our hardest every game no matter what team.” when askedabout the post season.Expectations and goals are what will continue to give the rams theneeded 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 achance to reach it with three weeks remaining in their regular season.They will then try to reach their desire of winning a regional championship.baskets and successful passes with loud bursts of cheers, and demonstratea level of support that is indeed part of the game.“There is not another gym that has the atmosphere on top of you,it’s always packed, and we by far have the best student sectionaround. They play a huge role at our home games,” added ClaytonReeves.“The atmosphere and excited issomething no one can match. My fellowKage members love the team and wantto help them in any way possible,” notedAllen.“The energy Khaos Kage brings tothe games gives me goose bumps! Thegames world not be as fun and no onewould be as pumped without it.I think it helps the team because itjust gives us a good atmosphere to playin. I definitely think we play better athome,” sated Reeves.“It’s always fun listening to all ofthe chants. It definitely makes thegame more fun from the court,”claimed Payne.They get to jump, yell, and mockthe opposition in support of their basketballteam. Sometimes the wholeroom turns its eye to the Khaos behind the net, and that’s when thiscrazy student section shines the brightest.Coach Gamber reminisced, “It still gives me chills. When the playersrun out and during starting lineups it is pretty special. I have goneto games at Mt. Vernon since I can remember. My family wouldn't misswhile I was a kid. I can remember even then how amazing the crowdsupport was. Now our Kage is organized, the theme nights are great,and its easy to say we have the best fans around. And what is greatabout our fans is like the end of the fight song states “whether youwin, whether you lose, we’re with you boys were with you.

VERNOIS SPORTSVolume 90 - Issue 6 GO RAMS AND LADY RAMS! January 2012Women’s Basketball continues winning seasonVERNOIS NEWS photo/LifeTouchLADY RAMS COMPETE: The MV Lady Rams basketball team is off to a great start this season … P. 19To Inform,Educate,EnlightenandEntertainName: AbbieThomson ...P.18Name: DaltonMcGowen ...P.18Name: WadeXanders ...P.18“Pump it upgo Rams”, goRams…P.19