MARION HIGH SCHOOL
mhsnewspaper.com
October 2010
Volume 73, Issue One
Welcome Back to MHS from your principal, Dr. Smith
MHS Principal, Dr. Smith
INSIDE THIS ISSUE:
“BAND” BOOK WEEK
AP BIO TRIP
WILDCAT FOOTBALL
NEW TEACHER : Ms. Harris
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THE STUDENT- ISSUE ONE, VOLUME 73
Welcome Back Welcome back new and old teachers, faculty, and fellow students! The staff of The Student would, on behalf of the whole student body, like to take this opportunity to say that we hope you had a refreshing and memorable summer. We sure did! We welcome the enthusiasm that you have for the new school year and we hope you understand why it is not always shared by us. The long school days are tiresome; we are already looking forward to winter break. We have the utmost confidence that you will continue to teach us so that we may (eventually) be better students and guide us so that we will ultimately be better individuals. Truthfully, there will be moments where we will all want to walk away and take a vacation, and we will, admittedly, often be consumed with anticipation for the next three, or four day weekend. But seeing you at school everyday shows us that you care and that you will not give up on us over one little tantrum or a few dozen forgotten assignments. We promise that although we are secretly (or obviously) texting underneath our desks, writing notes to our friends, or falling asleep, we do recognize and appreciate your care and the energy that you put into your job. We are learning, even if it seems like we are not. So as this new year takes off, remember that we are not as lazy and immature as our actions show. It is just something in the water fountain that makes us like this. As long as you do not give up, we will not either . . . just as long as Winter Break comes quickly. -The Student Staff
The Student is a newspaper that is produced by Marion High School students on a periodic basis. Head Editor: Jordan McBride Editors: Dakota Evans, Aaron McGee. Sarah Anderson Sponsor: Mrs. Presley Contributing Staff: Megan Lewis, Ashley Farthing, Makenzie Martin, Hannah Nelson, Daija Nellums, Taylor Pankey, Robyn Neicamp, Katelyn Salzman, Michael McAnelly, Kristen Fowler, Essecne Kimble Special Thanks: Nick Raubach for football pictures, Leah Douglas for illustrations
The Student Marion High School
ALPHA Program Orients Freshman
1501 S. Carbon St.
On September 1 and 2, a small group of juniors and seniors attended training for the ALPHA (Adolescent Leaders for Positive Healthy Assets) mentoring program at the First Baptist Church in Herrin. These students learned how to teach and mentor freshmen.
(618) 993-8196
The transition period into high school is treacherous. The mentors are there to listen and help guide their peers through this time. Although this is a fairly new program, it has helped students in the surrounding areas and also in the sophomore class at MHS. Freshmen, focus in on these mentors. Although the classes will end in November, the opportunity to use these students as an asset will not. They are there to assist with homework, sports, and problems. These mentors are just like you and they are eager to help you in any way they can. -Sarah Anderson
thestudentnewspaper@hotmail.com
mhsnewspaper.com Cartoon: Leah Douglas
Mrs. Tate (the newly married Mrs. Elwood) sponsors the Marion chapter. Last year, she asked soon-to-be juniors and seniors who had at least a 3.0 GPA, regular attendance, and positive attitude to sign up for the ALPHA program. Guided by her, small groups of 3 students go every Wednesday to the Freshmen Seminar classes. Their goal is to help boost some of the 40 assets that are statistically proven to correlate with success and abstinence from harmful influences.
Marion, IL 62959
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THE STUDENT- ISSUE ONE, VOLUME 73
“Band” Book Week Sets Audience Ablaze The Marion High School Library spearheaded this year’s annual “Banned Book Week” which ran from September 27 to October 1 and was celebrated in large part by recognizing those books which society has deemed “unacceptable,” even books such as Winnie-the-Pooh and The Great Gatsby. The week was highlighted with a performance by local rock band, Radioactive Society. The band’s drummer, Joey Elias was quoted as saying, “It’s a really great cause and my solo cured cancer.” That statement pretty much wraps it all up. Kudos once again to our library staff for putting together a great Banned Book Week, and to Radioactive Society for a great performance. -Aaron McGee
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THE STUDENT- ISSUE ONE, VOLUME 73
AP Biology Class Takes Field Trip to Kentucky Lake Biological Station
Mrs. Rice’s AP Biology class went to the Murray State Biological Station on September 23. Students seined for fish in Kentucky Lake and tested the water for a variety of things such as pH, dissolved oxygen levels, and light penetration. Students also collected samples of some of the many organisms in the lake and later examined their samples under a microscope in one of the station’s many labs.
-Jordan McBride
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THE STUDENT- ISSUE ONE, VOLUME 73
Black Light Dance Entertains Some students enjoy high school dances more than others. People’s impressions on the black light dance this year varied from person to person. Ronnie Bridges, a freshman, says, “The dance was fun! It was a great way to see everyone outside of school, be yourself, and have a good time.” He also said the dancing seemed alright for what he saw; however, he didn’t pay much attention to other people besides his friends. Ronnie cannot wait for the next dance! Other students made remarks such as, “The dancing was inappropriate”. This is an issue that is sure to surface at Homecoming as well. Regardless of student responses to the dance though, there is no question that it was a worthwhile and enriching experience for all that attended. -Megan Lewis
Editorial: Our Political Impasse With midterm elections fast approaching, it becomes more necessary than ever to evaluate the candidates who are attempting to gain office so every voter can make an informed decision. However, for the last few months it has seemed that our government is at a political impasse. It would seem as though each side of the line has their own ideas about government and refuses to compromise on any issue. President Barack Obama said recently that he and Republicans, “don’t even agree on things we used to agree on.” That is a valid point, Mr. President. As of late the conservative side of the line has been more immobile in terms of compromise. But what are you and fellow liberals doing to compromise for the betterment of the nation? The answer to that question is an overwhelming nothing. Neither side wants to compromise on even the most neutral of things. What can be blamed for this continuing divide among our governmental leaders? Is the easiest answer the bias of media stations? Whatever the reason, it now becomes the job of the people to rid the nation of a governmental divide. So, as you make your way to the polling place this November ask yourself, is your candidate going to combat the liberals/ conservatives—or are you voting for someone who really wants to see improvements to America? -Aaron McGee
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THE STUDENT- ISSUE ONE, VOLUME 73
THE STUDENT
Wildcat Football Every year Coach Kerry Martin prepares the Marion High School football team to take on some of the toughest competition in the state. This year has been no different and so far the results have been very pleasing. The Wildcats are ranked #7 in State and currently sporting a 6-0 record overall while maintaining a 3-0 record in the always tough South Seven. Marion won it’s opening game against the Granite City Warriors 31-7 then went on to make a come-from-behind victory in week 2 vs. Highland. After that close scare the Wildcats defeated local team Harrisburg 21-3 before opening conference play against rival Cahokia. The Wildcats won for the second time in only 10 years against the Comanche’s then went on to beat Mt. Vernon 38-20 in week 5. The explosive offense of the Wildcats is ranked #2 in the conference and is led by lead rusher Shekeil Ivy who currently has 819 yards on the ground. The Wildcat defense in ranked #1 in the conference and continues to be a crowd pleaser each and every game. Overall it seems to be another exciting year for Marion Wildcat Football. Good luck to Coach Martin and all the Wildcats in the second half of the season.
Photos: Nick Raubach
-Aaron McGee
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THE STUDENT- ISSUE ONE, VOLUME 73
New Teacher Ms. Harris Ms. Harris is one of this year’s new teachers here at Marion High School. Some of our older students may recognize her though, as she was previously Mrs. Neal’s Student Teacher. Her room is located in A hall, near the library, in the English department. She teaches English I and English II. She was previously employed at the Center for Rural Health and Wok and Roll while receiving her bachelor’s degree. She attended Southern Illinois University Carbondale where she received her Bachelor of Science in English in nearly three and a half years. Ms. Harris received her degree last December, which resulted in her new career as an English teacher this year. This is her first year teaching; we wish the best for her this year. -Essence Kimble
See next issue for more new teachers at MHS
Senior Spot Light: Kelli Parrish How does it feel to finally be a senior? It feels good, but at the same time, I’m going to miss all of the people I’ve met and made memories with. I’m excited yet anxious to graduate. I just have to enjoy this year because after you graduate, you can’t go back. Do you have any advice for underclassmen? Don’t hold anything back. Reach for what you want to accomplish and don’t ever give up. Make friends and tons of memories. How do you spend your extra time? Any sports, activities, or clubs? Dance two to four days a week. I’m in the club Tri-High-Y, and spending time with friends when I have time. What are you looking forward to most this school year? Getting the most prepared for college as I can and starting to apply for colleges. Who is your favorite teacher? This is hard. Mr. Martin or Mrs. Wilson (sociology) What would you change about the high school if you could? Having open campus to where you could go eat for lunch if you wanted to. Another thing would be seniority over parking spots. Seniors should be able to park closer to the building than the sophomores. -Kristen Fowler
Check out the next issue for more Senior Spotlights
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THE STUDENT- ISSUE ONE, VOLUME 73
Review: Machete “Machete don’t text.” “The lord has mercy…I don’t!” these are just two of the more memorable quotes a viewer will hear when watching the film Machete. As an extension of the original faux trailer that premiered along side the Grind House: Double Feature in 2007, Machete serves its purpose by delivering an outlandish, foul-mouthed, gore-fest of mostly epic proportions. When the titular character (played by Danny Trejo in his first leading role after twenty-five years of acting) a hard-spoken renegade exfederale with a penchant for weapons and women is offered a deal to assassinate corrupt anti-immigration senator John McLaughlin (played by Robert De Nero) for $125,000 it is a deal he cannot refuse. However when Machete is double-crossed by the same man who made him the deal (Jeff Fahey), he goes on a violent rampage of revenge. Enlisting the help of his holy brother “Padre” (Cheech Marin), an underground rebel/taco truck driver named “The She” (Michelle Rodriguez), and Sartana, a beautiful U.S immigrations officer (Jessica Alba), Machete sets off to take down the organization who wronged him. While the film’s action is highly enjoyable, some of its scenes can become a little bit repetitive after about the first 15 decapitations the film’s gore starts to get old. Though the plot of the film is easy to follow, it is highly predictable… Of course the main character will emerge victorious. The dialogue however is very well written for this genre of film, the script is full of one-liners and puns that are sure to keep viewers laughing. While Machete has its flaws, and shortcomings, it is still an incredibly potent film that offers tons of laughs, jaw-droppers, insanity and also gives adults a chance to experience what could be their first Mex-ploitation film. -Michael McAnelly
Review: Paper Towns This novel by John Green is currently on the Abraham Lincoln Book Award list and is a definite must-read. Green is an intelligent author that appeals to most readers, including classic-lovers. With his use of Walt Whitman’s “Song of Myself” as an on-going theme in Paper Towns, Green finds a way to interweave complicated poetry into his enjoyable fiction. His plot is suspenseful, fast-paced and full of mystery, making for a quick read. Green also has a great way of entertaining a reader’s comic senses, with his blatant uses of situational irony and playful humor. There is absolutely no end to the amusing actions of these not-so-typical high school characters. So if you need another book off the Abraham Lincoln Book Award list (or if you are just looking for a great read), Paper Towns may be your book. -Taylor Pankey