April 9, 2010 Prowler

the

OPINIONS P.2

NEWS P.4

APRIL.9.2010

IN FOCUS P.8 & P.9

FEATURES P.10

ENTERTAINMENT P.12

SPORTS P.13

P ro w l e r O’FALLON TOWNSHIP HIGH SCHOOL, ILL.

PHOTO PAGE P.16

PROM EDITION VOLUME 39, ISSUE 7

Prom: 23 days and counting...

With less than a month left, questions on this year’s theme, the dance itself, tickets are answered

IMPORTANT PROM FACTS Date: Saturday, May 1

Location: Regency Conference Center

Theme: Cirque du Soleil (Circus of the Sun) Important Times: Check in: 6-7 p.m.

Dinner: 7-8 p.m.

Dance: 8 p.m. to midnight Coronation: 10 p.m.

A “Guest Request” form is available on the OTHS web site. Click on “Student Services” and “School Forms” to access.

Price: Ticket sales: Seniors- $45.00* Seniors: 3:10-4:30 p.m., April 9 Panther Pride Juniors- $50.00* Juniors: 7:30-9:00 a.m. April 10 Juniors- $60.00 * Tickets can be bought in *After prom price is included groups of 10 or smaller. in dance tickets.

All student names must be on the full table sheet, and all Ticket Information: the money for everyone in the ID = Ticket group must be present for a No ID = No Prom full table to be reserved.

More information can be Each student may invite one found on the OTHS web site. guest. Guests may be from 14-20 years old. Contact Mr. Bickel in writing for exceptions.

BY NATALIE BUCH

BY TESSA DOCKINS features@othsprowler.com

there should be more involvement.

“I don't really like the theme this year. I think it would be more interesting if we could have a theme to be involved with during prom,” senior This year’s prom theme is 'Cirque du Soleil.'

According to www.cirquedusoleil.com, Brittany Lipe said.

As for the prom committee itself, juniors 'Cirque du Soleil' is a Canadian entertainment company self-described as a “dramatic mix are the only ones allowed to participate. They fill out applications and of circus arts and street are chosen to be on a entertainment.” particular committee.

The circus has grown There are three since its founding in 1984 different committees. and now tours the world.

The marketing The prom committee committee is in charge of selected this theme the invitations, the posters because it is ornate, and the commercials that elegant, dramatic and not air on Panther Beat. an over-used prom theme.

The awards committee They have selects the senior incorporated the theme personality categories, into the decorations and crowns and plaques for colors, which include the senior personality yellow, red, orange, pink winners, as well as prom and purple. king and queen.

“I can't give too much Prom logo drawn by junior Maddie Cunningham The event design away, but expect some outrageous entertainment at prom,” committee committee is in charge of the decorations and the colors for prom. member junior Mollie Rittenhouse said.

The design committee also narrows the As always, there is much controversy over theme down to two. From there, the seniors vote the legitimacy of the theme.

Some students favor it because of its for the idea they like the most.

The purpose of the creativity.

“The theme this year is different. It is more committee is for the original than years past,” senior Stephanie juniors to put on an amazing prom for Jozwiak said.

In addition to originality, others like the the seniors. It is See pages 8 the last gift to the theme simply for its fun factor. & 9 for more “I really like the theme this year. It seems like seniors before they graduate it will be a lot of fun,” committee member junior Prom coverage! and go off to Erica Cain said.

On the other hand, there are some some live their lives as students who do not like it because they feel adults.

Budget woes: State money cuts will have huge impact on District 90, District 203

JAKE HAMILTON

It is official. The O’Fallon school districts are in store for some tough times.

On March 21, the Belleville News-Democrat reported the estimated cuts for the metro-east school districts. There are 10 school districts in the area, each containing between one to 11 schools.

Most importantly are O’Fallon District 90 and O’Fallon District 203.

O’Fallon District 90 consists of seven schools total. There are two junior highs-Fulton and Carriel-and five elementary schools-Schaefer, Hinchcliffe, Evans, Moye and Kampmeyer.

The BND reported that the state owes District 90 $976, 960. The district does not have a set budget reduction goal yet.

Several staff reductions are known.

District 90 will let go all 42 first-aides (for teachers, programs and libraries), nine certified teachers, 4.5 noncertified teachers and will have one termination.

In addition, class sizes will grow, athletic fees will increase from $75 to $150 per sport, registration fees will increase from $70 to $90 and the elementary school libraries will be closed next year.

District 90’s superintendent, Nancy Gibson, said her schools’ marquees will

In addition to larger classes, students should be prepared for increases of fees for athletics, registration, parking tickets and food, which the school board has approved.

On March 18, the Board presented a powerpoint showing the recommended actions to deal with the loss of funding.

At OTHS, registration and book fees will go from $70 to $100; athletic fees will be $50 per sport; band/music fees will also be $50 per activity; driver’s education fees will be $50; student parking tickets will go from $20 to $50; summer school will increase from $100 to $125; and athletic ticket prices for boys’ basketball and football will increase to $3-$4.

There is not expected to be any change to the number or variety of extracurriculars offered at OTHS next school year.

While the whole deal is a depressing one, students, parents and faculty can do something about it.

More people can follow Superintendent Gibson’s advice to get the state’s attention and start attending school board meetings, or joining the community committee-which is expected to start its work this summer.

While these two options do not offer District 90, which includes Fulton Junior High, is owed $976,960, while District 203 is owed $365,000 from the state of Illinois. Cumulatively, the O’Fallon schools are owed over $1 million.

Want more? Check out web exclusives on sport medicine’s 5K run, spring pep rally, spring musical photos and more online at www.othsprowler.com.

immediate solutions to the budget issue, they at least allow for the community to become involved and voice their opinions on an issue that is affecting everyone.

Check out othsprowler.com for more information.

BRYCE RADICK

ANTHONY BAILEY

continue to display the amount the state owes the district and will be updated monthly.

This is in effort to get more of the community, specifically parents, to pressure the state to take responsibility and help the schools.

District 203, or OTHS, is owed $365,000 from the state. The budget reduction goal for OTHS is 1.5 million.

The school will, however, be seeing a great change in its staff.

There will be two teacher retirements, 8.9 certified teachers, 12 paraprofessionals and one secretary will be let go, one full-time administrator will be reduced to part-time and there will be reduced contract times for one administrator.

As many know, several classes have already been cut for the 2010-2011 school year. The coupling of a loss of courses and a loss of teachers will have a huge impact on the student body.

According to Dr. Darcy Benway, class sizes are expected to grow, although it does depend on what the course is. This could mean less oneon-one time for struggling students.

It also means that while teachers may currently see around 150 students per day, they could be seeing closer to 200 next year.

In addition, larger classes and a lack of variety in the class choices could, in a few year’s time, affect the test scores of the students.

BY JENNIFER BAILEY news@othsprowler.com

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OPINIONS

APRIL 9, 2010

Disney Channel does not produce good role models for young girls Disney network’s change in values, priorities reflected in behavior of current “stars”

BY JANELLE PFEIFER opinions@othsprowler.com Disney Channel is a huge staple in most children’s lives.

I think we can all remember running home to watch shows such as “Even Stevens” and “Lizzie McGuire.”

Nowadays, younger kids look forward to shows such as “Hannah Montana” and “Wizards of Waverly Place.” Not only have the shows changed, but so have the actors.

If you see the star on television, then most likely you will hear their voices on the radio.

Disney has made almost every actor believe that not only are they talented in acting as well as singing.

Miley Cyrus is a perfect example of this. To me, all she does is whine on her TV series, and scream every time she gets onstage. However, none of that matters as long as she is a good influence, right?

Well, too bad Cyrus was voted Worst Influence of 2009 by JSYK Magazine. Perhaps this is due to her “pole dancing” at the Teen Choice Awards, or maybe her many inappropriate photos that have leaked online.

“I think she is a hypocrite sometimes, because she talks about being all pure and innocent, but on stage she wears almost nothing and dances with male dancers. It’s not bad, but its not good for little children to be looking up to,” junior Alyssa Watts said.

Cyrus is not the only one with the bad reputation. Vanessa Hudgens is another young actress who lacks talent and got caught up in scandals.

I think we all can remember when Hudgens was caught sending risque photos of herself to her then boyfriend, Zac Efron. And to think

CAITLYN COON

that these are the people 12-year-olds and younger want to be like.

“The preteens that do idolize them might want to try what their role models do and that’s where they have to be smarter and make better decisions,” senior Elaine Quitos said.

Every time a Disney star gets caught up in some kind of scandal, the media makes a point to say that the actor is just trying to “grow

THE PROWLER STAFF & POLICIES Jennifer Bailey Editor-in-Chief

Jake Hamilton Web Editor/Reporter

John Davis Sports Editor/Reporter

Bryce Radick News Editor/Reporter

Alexis Hardy Features Editor/Reporter

Chad Bartholomew Reporter

Tessa Dockins Reporter

Natalie Buch Reporter

Kira Worthington Reporter

Katy Maness Reporter

David Colbus Reporter

Jacob Fussell Reporter

Ashleigh Jackson Reporter

Ellie Kanaskie Reporter

Janelle Pfeifer Reporter

Caitlyn Coon Reporter

Ms. Mary Dempsey Adviser

Contributors: Maddie Cunningham, Elliott Koehl, Ian Wilson, Tyler Klaus, Tiare Cassidy, Cortney Reagan, Adam Harrel and Anthony Bailey The O’Fallon Township High School newspaper, The Prowler, is part of the educational curriculum of O’Fallon District 203.

to the editor. All letters must be signed. All signatures will be verified through a phone call or personal interview.

Although the paper is a class activity, OTHS students may submit materials, such as stories, photography, graphics, or art, for publication consideration. Students should bring any submissions to Room 608 Smiley Campus Submissions may be edited for content, length and grammar.

Letters may be submitted to Room 608, mailed to OTHS Publications, 600 S. Smiley St., O’Fallon, IL 62269, or emailed to letters@othsprowler.com.

Letters should be fewer than 400 words in length.

If excessive editing is needed, the letter will be returned to the author for approval. The Prowler reserves the right to edit any letter for grammatical errors, libelous content, or space limitations.

If written, staff editorials will not signed and will reflect the opinion of majority of the staff members. Commentaries columns, on the other hand, will be signed reflect the individual writer’s views.

be the and and

Any person with an interest in the OTHS community is encouraged to submit letters

The Prowler is a member of the National Scholastic Press Association and the Illinois High School Press Association. Some material courtesy of American Society of Newspaper Editors/MCT Campus High School Newspaper Service. The Prowler is printed by the Edwardsville Intelligencer of Edwardsville, Ill.

up,” but people do not want them to grow up.

However, there are some celebrities that made that change without all the scandal.

Hayden Panettiere started off making “feel good” movies for Disney, but now she is a lead on NBC’s “Heroes.” She made the transition smoothly and without upsetting parents.

Miley Cyrus claims to be in this transition stage, but all she is doing is turning into Britney

Spears by becoming more risque. It seems to me like she is trying to spite Disney for making her the cutesy “Hannah Montana.”

As entertaining as the shows may be for preteens, Disney Channel is not producing good role models for this generation of girls.

LETTER FROM STUCO PRESIDENT

Looking back on changes, looking to future

BY ELLIOTT KOEHL opinions@othsprowler.com Looking back on the 2009-2010 school year, one word comes to mind: change. No pun intended.

In this past year, and even the three years of mine at OTHS before it, we have seen a great deal of change in our school.

Remember freshman year (class of 2010) when we could walk between classes outside?

I remember being one of the few people who would walk outside even in the bitter cold just to avoid the crowds in the indoor hallways.

Also, I remember the days when you could keep your ID in your locker and simply put it on after you entered the building from any one of a multitude of entrances.

Now, many a student has thought obscene things after making the long, cold trek into school only to discover that they have to make the trip to retrieve their ID from their car.

While some of these changes may be a nuisance, and give us something to create facebook groups about, they also serve a higher purpose.

All of these changes in safety and in the structure of our building are what make our school one of the top ranking schools in the state.

Take sports for example. Everyone knows the dreaded term “workout day.” Each time the coach even mentions the idea of a workout day, a chorus of moans and groans can be heard. Those exhausting workout days, however, make an athlete better.

Similarly, we may complain and voice our discontent with changes to our building and policies, but in the end they are what make us great.

In light of recent events, that greatness is duly important. As we face enormous challenges in the economy, that deep-seeded greatness will help OTHS face those hardships as if they were nothing.

Yes, hard times are to come. However, we have already endured many hard times and shined nonetheless. Remember OTHS, keep your head held high, and these years to come will be the best years yet.

As the times change, OTHS will continue to stay one step ahead with the best staff, the best facilities, and the best community.

The combination of those things as well as the outstanding student body here at OTHS is what makes us the best, and why I will proudly say that I am an OTHS graduate in my years to come.

To all whom have helped me along the way, thank you for four great years, and I wish you only the best.

Sincerely, Elliott R. Koehl Student Body President 2009-2010

OPINIONS

APRIL 9, 2010

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‘Land of the free, home of the brave’ Pledge is more than recitation

BY ALEXIS HARDY opinions@othsprowler.com Five days a week, we take 15 seconds to recite 31 words.

The Pledge of Allegiance is something I hold dear and quite frankly, I think most have forgotten its true meaning.

A pledge is a promise or agreement. Having an allegiance is to have loyalty to a group or cause.

When we pledge allegiance to America, we are essentially promising to be loyal to our country.

Although it may sound dramatic, I am pretty disturbed when I see kids sit in their desks when they should be standing with their hands on their hearts.

I happen to be America's number one fan, and I think our generation needs a refresher course in patriotism for our country.

My sophomore year, I took a class, International Relations, that made my passion for America even stronger.

In that class, we watched a documentary on the genocide occurring in Darfur, Sudan.

One scene I remember very vividly had an extremely thin man in tattered clothing

ASHLEIGH JACKSON

standing outside his displacement camp hut in Chad, Sudan's neighboring country.

He was run out of his home village in Sudan and became a refugee in a camp that received its supplies from the United States.

In his best English possible, he spilled about his love for America. He had tears in his eyes as

Toddler pageants exploit young girls

BY KATY MANESS opinions@othsprowler.com Think back to when you were a little kid. What was most important to you? A new holographic Pokemon card? A gameboy? Barbies?

Imagine your childhood dedicated to applying hairspray and working on your strut for

the catwalk.

Child beauty pageants are becoming more popular and harmful to young girls.

When toddler beauty pageants first began in the 1960's, they were used as marketing tools by a hotel owner in Atlantic City to raise money for his business.

Now, pageants seem to serve as tools for exploiting young girls.

Are beauty contests necessary for a child's progression and growth, or do they merely hinder a healthy childhood?

Child beauty pageants are generally divided into various events such as evening attire, modeling sportswear, dance and talent competitions.

In the pageants, the children are judged based on looks, capability, poise, perfection and confidence.

If little girls are worrying about whether or not their eye lashes are long enough, or if their dress is sparkly enough, when do they have time in their childhood to experience carefree exploration and innocent interaction?

Naturally, little girls love to explore their mothers' closets by tryin on their clothes and make-up in order to take a glimpse into womanhood.

However, beauty pageants tend to contribute and exaggerate the previously mentioned aspects, forcing some young girls to grow up

too fast.

If a five year old girl has a schedule full of hair and makeup appointments, dress fittings, dance, poise and etiquette classes, she grows up believing life is centered around her, and thinking that those things are the most important in life.

“I think that [child beauty pageants] are revolting. It is just another part of society that shows young girls the only way to be ‘beautiful’ is by looking exactly like a Barbie doll,” sophomore Morgen Culler said.

When young girls focus their time on making their outward appearance look better, they take time away from strengthening their personality and education.

If someone gets comfortable fixing her “imperfections” subconsciously with makeup, a curling iron, a fake smile, and a rehearsed walk, the problem is not being fixed; it is being hidden.

Many girls compete in these pageants because of their mothers.

Parents give the excuse of it being a hobby or a bonding experience with their child, but there are more effective, less stressful and safer ways to bond.

“Some may say its motherdaughter bonding time, but really it's just a sad excuse at 'perfectionism' that shouldn’t take place,” sophomore Brittany Mater said.

So, is it wrong for children to be paraded around in scantily clad dresses with hair unnaturally big and make-up designed for an adult?

Maybe there are some families who benefit and enjoy this type of experience.

I believe the bigger picture proves that this type of activity not only puts too much pressure on the child to be something they are not, but also hinders her psychological and emotional growth.

“It is just another part of society that shows young girls the only way to be beautiful is by looking exactly like a Barbie doll.”

-Morgen Culler, sophomore

he thanked the U.S. for its help, and no country meant more to him in the world because of what we had done.

He poured out about how helpful our country was and that he would forever be grateful for our generosity in the refuge camps in Chad.

Hearing his words made me extremely proud of the country in which we live.

In America, our media does not boast the small, yet big things we do in other countries every day.

Sure, there are countries who oppose us, but the truth is that there are many countries and people in the world who respect America.

When I hear citizens of the U.S. disrespect our country, it makes me absolutely sick. We live in one of the best countries in the world.

Here, we have opportunities and privileges that people in other countries could not even imagine having.

Some of our unimaginable freedoms include the freedom of speech, freedom to assemble, freedom to choose or not to choose a religion, freedom of press and freedom to petition.

Citizens in countries such as Cuba and China are not promised these freedoms and may never get to be privileged enough to have them.

In some countries, I wouldn't be allowed to express my opinion like I am now due to strict regulations on freedom of speech.

Everyone is entitled to his or her own opinion, but next time you think about bashing America-land of the free and home of the braveyou might want to rethink that inconsiderate thought and appreciate our country.

Students want more than 2 dances during school year

BY JACOB FUSSELL opinions@othsprowler.com Do you remember middle school and the monthly dances?

Whatever happened to them? I always wanted to go to the high school dances portrayed on TV. Sadly, I was mistaken when I finally made it to OTHS. Unlike the schools of Degrassi or West Beverly High, OTHS has restricted our dancing privilege to one dance a year for most students and two for upperclassmen.

“Not everyone has the chance to go to prom, and some students aren't here during Homecoming, so it would provide another chance to attend a school dance, even if it isn't formal,” sophomore Katrina Anderson said.

Where did we lose the Sadie Hawkins, Valentine’s and even the mellow after sporting events dances?

Unfortunately, the clubs have to sponsor dances, and there are not many that are large enough to do so. The only two sufficiently large enough are Student Council and SADD.

Having another dance is not the issue for SADD. However, finding enough chaperones is the issue.

“You have to make it worth the chaperone's time to spend four hours watching teenagers dance and police their 'moves' on the floor,” SADD sponsor Mrs. Brook Lewis said.

Student Council has attempted to host a Valentine’s Day dance in the past, but due to low ticket sales and a snow day, the dance was cancelled.

“If students put in more effort and make a commitment, then Student Council will consider hosting another dance. The dance also needs to be approved in advance,” STUCO sponsor Ms. Dawn Bauer said.

I want to be able to go the South Gym or the Cafeteria with music playing and chill out. With school consuming our lives, it would be nice to come here for once and not have to worry about what assignment is due or stressing about a test.

“School dances are a fun way to dress up and hang out with friends outside of school in a safe and clean environment that's not super expensive,” junior Jaiden Bonapart said.

The only way we can get these dances back is if students ask and participate. When people stop coming is when the dances shut down again for a long time.

Warning: ‘Text-talk’ can ruin college applications, more

BY IAN WILSON opinions@othsprowler.com The average American teenager texts over 2,200 messages per month. That is almost 80 texts a day.

While this phenomenon is considered faster and more convenient than talking, many are realizing it is affecting those teenagers’ abilities to write proper English.

Facebook, twitter and texts do not require proper grammar, thus allowing students to write things such as “lol,” smiley face and “cuz.”

This “text-talk” can cause problems for teens when writing English papers, job resumes and even college admission papers.

“I feel that students’ grammar has suffered as a result of texting and having constant access to

their cell phones,” English teacher Mrs. Ashlee Heady said. “Students are using shortened versions of words without even knowing that they’re doing it! So, I see a lot of g2g’s and lol’s and [other] stuff that I normally wouldn’t see, because they’ve become so accustomed to their cell phones.”

Some people think that they are able to switch back and forth between formal and informal language, but a recent study shows that over 30 percent of the students admitted to Waterloo University were unable to pass a basic English exam due to improper grammar and “text-talk.”

“I think technology has had a negative impact on students’ writing in general. Their grammar is suffering. Students... [are] not reading as much.

Reading is essential to obtaining grammar skills,” Mrs. Heady said.

So O’Fallon, using “text-talk” in your e-mails and texts is fine, but using it in college essays or job resumes could cost you an admission or job.

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NEWS

APRIL 9, 2010

ACT prep: Students get ready for April 28

BY CHAD BARTHOLOMEW news@othsprowler.com With the ACT coming up on April 28 and 29, juniors are anxious to take one of the most important tests of their lives.

Since the beginning of freshman year, students have been told it is important to be as prepared as possible for the big test. So, we of The Prowler have created a check list for the juniors to go through before it begins.

The night before the test, go to bed early. Make sure to get as much rest as possible.

This insures that one's brain and body are both ready to take the test that can only be compared to an endurance run.

Make sure to have a good breakfast the morning of because the test will drain the body mentally and physically.

Proteins are as important as carbs, but sugars and caffeine are not a great idea. After the effects of sugar and caffeine wear off, most people usually feel exhausted, which could Photo Illustration affect how one scores on this important test.

Study hard and pay as much attention as possible in core classes such as English, math, social studies and science. For the people who

do not think they need to study or do not care, an attitude check is in order here.

That kind of approach to this test will hurt future job opportunities and even the ability to get into college.

Those select few who are in ACTion Advisory are already ahead of the game. They are getting extra help in the subjects of reading and math, but they still should not forget to study.

The school puts money up to pay for the classes so that the juniors who take advantage of the program will improve their scores on the ACT. For the people who were not lucky enough to get into ACTion Advisory, another way to prepare for the test is to go to act.org and click on the sample test.

With the No Child Left Behind act, all schools in the U.S. have had to improve their test scores in 14 years.

All students must achieve a score between 18 and 24 on the ACT. Director of Curriculum and Instruction Mrs. Martha Weld said, "The No Child Left Behind [act], requires every state to test the students for a gauge for academics."

The ACT sets the school up to pass or fail, but it all depends on the how the students do.

Incoming freshmen, parents discover available clubs, sports

MS. MARY DEMPSEY At the Eighth Grade Fair, junior Natalie Schmidt and senior Natalie Ott talk to parents about their club.They represented the Fellowship of Christian Athletes.

BY KIRA WORTHINGTON news@othsprowler.com Eighth graders and their parents prowled the Eighth Grade Fair held at the Smiley campus on March 25 to find out what opportunities will be available to them their freshman year.

Due to years of experience with students, the faculty has been offering the Eighth Grade Fair as a chance for students and parents to get a feel of what the students will experience next year.

The idea of the Eighth Grade Fair is to takeaway the students’ excuse that they did not know what kinds of clubs, sports and classes would be available to them throughout their time at OTHS.

With current students, teachers and advisors there to act as guides for each individual club, sport and class, incoming freshmen can gain an objective view as to why others their age get involved.

“I think it’s really cool and diverse. It’s neat for kids to see all the clubs, even those we don’t hear about,” incoming freshman Tiare Venuti said.

Parent of incoming freshman Taylor Dichsen, Stacie Dichsen said, “I think this is a great opportunity for the kids to see what’s available to them.”

Overall, the students were given a wide variety of what to expect for their upcoming freshman year, and will hopefully take advantage of this knowledge.

Endeavours contributors receive golden, excellence awards for art, photos, literature

BY DAVID COLBUS news@othsprowler.com Endeavours is out again, and so are its award winners.

Freshmen Casey Mihalik, Megan Gaudette, Elizabeth Werner and senior Drew Fisher received the Awards of Excellence in writing.

Junior Megan Hasemann won the Golden Endeavour award for writing with her poem “Puppetmaster.”

“It was amazing and very surprising. I didn’t expect it at all,” Hasemann said.

Winners for the Awards of Excellence in art include sophomore Kaylee Schmitz, juniors Kevin Feuerhelm and Haley Kuhlhoff and senior Kat Statz.

The Golden Endeavour for art went to freshman Tiare Cassidy for her picture, “Imagine a World.”

“It felt really awesome to win, especially since I wasn’t intending to win anything in the first place,” Cassidy said.

Endeavours sponsor Mrs. Jennifer Lara said, “Their passion and devotion to writing and artwork is evident in their submissions to the publication.”

“It felt really awesome to win, especially since I wasn’t intending to win anything in the first place.”

-Tiare Cassidy, freshman

TIARE CASSIDY Freshman Tiare Cassidy won a Golden Endeavour for her art work, “Imagine a World.” Cassidy was among the two Golden Endeavour winners.The other winner was junior Megan Hasemann for her poem “Puppetmaster.”

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NEWS

APRIL 9, 2010

Show choir celebrates wins, holds inaugural ‘Spring Sing’

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Next is “Circus” and “Rama Lama,” and then the girl and guy songs “Maneater,” with freshman soloist Nate Bittner, and “Cold Hearted Snake” On March 13, OTHS show choir, Great featuring senior soloist Chelsea Cariker.

They set up the end with the ballad, “The Expectations, took back the title of Grand Champions in the Quincy High School Showcase Show Must Go On,” and close with “Disturbia,” featuring senior soloists Anaya Duncan Tori of Excellence, defeating 29 other show choirs.

This victory was the end to a successful year Wisely and junior soloists Nick Rivera, Sabrina Schultz and Tori Wisely, sophomore soloist Taisha for Great Expectations.

Earlier, the O'Fallon show choir took First Estrada, and freshman soloist Martha Terhaar.

“We're doing such a different show. It is so Runner-up and Best Vocals in the Waconia Star Power Competition on February 13 and out of the box, it is so not normal for show choir,” Shepherd said. competed in several other competitions.

“We have “ T h e stepped very competitions far outside the are really fun in show choir ‘box’ general; there's and took a risk just a lot of In order to better showcase the Show Choir’s talent, that at times this energy,” senior captain Amber they held an “Ice Cream Social” which featured the year felt like it was not going Shepherd said. following acts from OTHS’ brightest performers. to pay off. We Their year ended on a high • “Hysteria” - senior Nathan Bossart, junior Willow Nguy, have been told it was too weird note when they senior Sam Brush and junior David Nowak won the Grand • “Napoleon Dynamite” - sophomore Kurtis Breger (with to strange... and we kept working Champions title the entire Show Choir later) from the Quincy • “Boondocks” - freshmen Nate Bittner and Courtney and kept making it better. This High School Diamond (combined with “Rhythm”) Showcase of • “Rhythm” - junior Nick Rivera, senior Amber Shepherd was our fairytale ending. It Excellence. and senior Heidi Jorgensen have G r e a t • “Still Hurting” - junior Keely Vasatka (with senior Heidi couldn't happened to a Expectations Jorgensen and junior Nick Rivera as dancers) more deserving i n c l u d e s • “Speechless” - senior Janelle Pfeifer group of kids,” singers, dancers, • “Gaga Girls” - Frolics ensemble i n s t r u m e n t a l • “Orange Blossom” - Frolics ensemble against freshman Mrs. Marble said.

On March e n s e m b l e Sarah Kovich in a violin “duel” 26, Great members and • “A Thousand Miles” - freshman Kylie Evgenides tech crew • “Flight” - senior Amanda Floyd and freshman Meadow E x p e c t a t i o n s hosted its members.

Nguy (with sophomore Leah Wells as a dancer) “Spring Sing” “ W e ' r e • “Gold” - senior Amanda Floyd in the Milburn just like a C a m p u s family.

There Auditorium. is obviously “I am excited for the community to have the drama, like any other club, but we get along really well and help each other out. We take care of one chance to see this show and the talent within the show choir itself,” Mrs. Marble said before the another,” Shepherd said.

There are a total of 75 members in show choir show.

For $5, guests were treated to circus-themed that work together to produce their show.

“What we do takes a ‘team’ effort and pre-show entertainment, ice cream and their without each and every member of our show winning show, “Circus Freaks.”

The show choir is also looking for new choir, we would be nowhere. They are the most talented, dedicated, passionate and caring group members. Mrs. Marble said. “Please, if you love to of individuals that I have ever had the pleasure sing, or dance or even better, both, come out and of working with. They have my respect and audition for show choir.”

Anyone interested in joining the show choir, admiration for the work they have done this year,” contact Mrs. Marble at marblemusic05@gmail.

Mrs. Marble said.

Great Expectations' show, “Circus Freaks,” com, or (618) 632-1067, to audition for next year. opens with the song “Welcome to the Greatest Show,” featuring senior soloist Nicole Lambert.

BY DAVID COLBUS news@othsprowler.com

Spring Sing

DAVID COLBUS At the Spring Sing, show choir performs “The Show Must Go On.” The entire event was a showcase for OTHS talent, and was the last chance to see the Great Expectations’ Circus Freaks.

Interact to go on summer leadership trip, students plan to act as jury in mock trial

BY JAKE HAMILTON news@othsprowler.com This summer, the Interact Club will be venturing out to Lake Williamson for the summer camp Rotary Youth Leadership Awards to build life long lessons.

Interact clubs from all over Illinois join together to learn better team work skills, leadership skills and new ideas to bring back to their campuses.

“My favorite part was getting to experience team building activities with new people,” junior Stephanie Konzen said.

While there, they are split into groups and participate in challenges that test their teamwork and leadership abilities.

“The activities we did at RYLA were fun and unique. [They] made everyone step outside of their comfort zones, learn to trust and become

better leaders,” sophomore Ian Wilson said.

This three day trip will be held from July 31 to Aug. 2.

On April 19 and 20, American Government class, American Legal Systems class and the Mock Trial team will take a trip to the Washington Law School to participate as a jury at the Washington University Law School Trial Advocacy class’ final trials.

Students will learn the legal process of a court case and the jury’s importance.

“It exposes [students] to the overall process of a trial and the juror’s responsibility in a case,” Mr. Busse said.

The educational value provides a good basis for students that want to practice law, or even participate in the legal process.

“Our job as educators is to provide the students with an understanding of the real world,” Mr. Busse said.

Winter Guard takes first in competitions

BY JACOB FUSSELL sports@othsprowler.com Winter Guard, similar to fall’s Color Guard, has made its way into competitions and has become known as the sport of the arts.

Despite popular belief, the OTHS Winter Guard has shown their talent.

“We had a few rough years, but now that [Coach] Scott [Toosley] is our coach, we are rocking hard,” junior Cortney Reagan said.

Their season began Jan. 6 with these athletes practicing four times a week with two hour practices each time.

“My favorite thing about guard is when I see the growth and the progress of the color guard from the beginning of the season all the way to the end,” Coach Toosley said.

“Winter Guard this year has been really amazing. Our new coach, Scott, has been a huge help. The improvements we have made

have impressed not only us but the entire Winterguard circuit. Getting first at our home show meant the world to us, and it was the most incredible feeling,” senior Jenny Cornwall said.

Their show stopping routine is centered around the song “This Is Why I'm Hot” by MIMS. In addition, they utilize their rifles, flags and sabers to create an ambiance of high-energy.

They have competed in Mid-Continent Color Guard Association and Winter Guard International competitions.

Throughout these competitions, which have taken them as far away as Springfield and Kansas City, Mo., they have been crushing other guards and retaining their first place rank.

Their season ended March 27 with a third at the Grand Sectionals competition.

Winter Guard showed their colors this season, and no one can deny their skill and talent.

CORTNEY REAGAN The Winter Guard performs at the Grand Sectionals competition on March 27. They placed third in the competition.

Club Briefs: Ecology Club, JROTC, Model U.N., FCA, Sports Medicine

BY BRYCE RADICK news@othsprowler.com • The Ecology Club will be going to the Missouri Botanical Gardens on April 24 to celebrate Earth Day. If you would like to attend, contact Mr. Chance Baker.

• AFJROTC's drill season is going extremely well, and the JROTC athletic staff is currently planning a field day.

• National Honor Society had its annual induction ceremony for new members Feb. 25.

• The Publications staff went to a journalism convention at Webster University on March 8 and is currently gearing up for IHSA Sectionals on April 24. If they perform well at Sectionals, they will participate at State on April 30.

• Model United Nations will be preparing for the McKendree Spring Conference on April 13-15.

• Fellowship of Christian Athletes partnered with local charity “Art with Heart” and will be making uplifting cards for those in need on March 8. Students who attended

the whole day were eligible for tickets to a Disney theme park.

• FCA also held a dodge ball tournament on March 29.

• Sports Medicine Club is hosting the “Get Fit, Stay Fit 5K run/walk” on April 17. The registration cost is $10, and all participants must be registered by the end of today.

• The OTHS staff has been holding its own Biggest Loser Competition. Ms. Martha Blackburn, who started the competition, says the staff has lost 342.2 pounds.

• Robotics team participated in the St. Louis

Regional competition on March 18-20 and placed first.

• SADD will be holding its annual Blizzard on April 13.

• Odyssey of the Mind won at State competition against Belleville West on March 20. The team is now invited to attend the Worlds Competition in May, which will be held at Michigan State University.

6

NEWS

APRIL 9, 2010 TOP TEN NEWS

Health care reform bill passes in D.C.; 14 states file law suit against government

BY NATALIE BUCH news@othsprowler.com On Tuesday, March 23, President Barack Obama signed the controversial health care reform bill into law. The law, however, will affect not only the health care industry, but it will also press stricter limitations on the fast food and tanning industries. The Republican party and 14 states are questioning the new law’s constitutionality and promise to bring the law before the Supreme Court. (cnn.com)

1

Announced on March 12, U.S. Representative Jerry Costello (D) of Belleville is forming a bipartisan caucus to bring awareness about the need for levees throughout the nation. He hopes to delay flood maps from being drawn until the levees are upgraded to Federal standards in order to save citizens from high flood insurance rates. (bnd.com)

2

U.S. Defense Secretary Robert Gates announced on March 25 that the Pentagon will be easing its “Don’t ask, don’t tell” policy on homosexuality. The loosening of the enforcement on this policy is supported by President Barack Obama and many members of the Democratic party. The appropriate level of information will also be raised for formally accusing a military member of homosexual behavior. (cnn.com)

3

4

On March 17 in Thailand, tens of thousands of protesters filled downtown Bangkok in an attempt to bring about political change.

Identified by their choice of clothing, many of the “Red Shirts” had collectively drawn 1,000 pints of their own blood to splatter on various government buildings around the city, including the residence of the current Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva. Protesters said Vejjajiva was not democratically elected, and they hoped to instigate another election. (cnn.com)

On March 10, childhood actor Corey Haim died of possible drug overdose. A star in the ‘80s films “The Lost Boys” and “License to Drive,” Haim’s acting career quickly faded away and he began uysing prescription drugs. Recently, Corey costarred in a reality TV show “The Two Coreys” with childhood coworker and friend Corey Feldman. Haim was put to rest on March 17 in Toronto, Canada. (foxnews.com)

5

STUDIO

50

6

Approximately 90 percent of Chilean citizens experienced a major nation-wide blackout on Sunday, March 14. Though the cause of the blackout is unknown, the central electrical system failed, and the people of Chile are facing even greater difficulty in recovering from the earthquake that struck in February. (cnn.com) Al Qaeda leader Osama bin Laden released a warning to the U.S. on March 25 regarding Khalid Sheikh Mohammed, an alleged 9/11 mastermind. Bin Laden claimed that if Mohammed was executed, al Qaeda would take measures of retaliation against America, and he referenced both President Barack Obama and President George W. Bush in an insult against the White House. (cnn.com)

7

Last month, a high school student in Mississippi began filing a lawsuit against her school for its cancellation of prom. Allegedly, the school board decided to cancel the prom to prevent Constance McMillen, an 18-yearold lesbian, from attending with her girlfriend.

McMillen is suing through the American Civil Liberties Union, and the school district claims that the controversy is causing too big a distraction from the educational process to reinstate the prom. (cnn.com)

8

Taliban spokesmen deemed the multiple bomb attacks that occurred on Saturday, March 13, in Kandahar, Afghanistan as warnings to Gen. Stanley McChrystal, a top NATO official.

Apparently aiming to free local prisoners, insurgents attacked the city to demonstrate that the Taliban can still operate successfully despite the growing numbers of international troops. (foxnews.com)

9

10

In the United Arab Emirates, a British couple is appealing a jail sentence for public kissing. Despite Dubai’s lenient social code, authorities arrested Ayman Najifi and an unidentified female tourist in November for what the couple claimed was a mere “peck on the cheek.” The appeal was scheduled to occur on April 4. (foxnews.com)

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1 MCT/OLIVER DOULIERY President Barack Obama signs the health insurance reform bill in the East Room in Washington, D.C., March 23, 2010, as Marcelas Owens, 11, of Seattle,Wash., looks on.

6 MCT/MICHAEL ROBINSON CHAVEZ Chilean fishermen work to flip over a boat that was carried by a tsunami more than 10 miles from Concepcion’s port and deposited on a beach.

9 MCT/DION NISSENBAUM An Afghan child and merchant stand in front of a market in Marjah, Afghanistan on Sunday, March 14, 2010.

American military officials are warning that the Taliban are using a new campaign of intimidation to try and undermine the newly installed Afghan government in this southern Afghanistan district.

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FEATURES

APRIL 9, 2010

7

Dynamic duo Dunnells, Doing something good Daniels earn SOTM title for the community NHS donations go to O’Fallon Food Pantry

BY JENNIFER BAILEY features@othsprowler.com A new decade brings a new way of doing things. At least, that is how NHS sees it.

NHS hosted its annual food drive from March 1 through March 26. However, they had some new goals this year.

“We would like to collect 4,000 items for the food pantry,” NHS sponsor and math teacher Mrs. Lori Schieppe said. “The food pantry relies on our donations, and our collections help provide the pantry with food through the summer months.”

Types of food donations preferred included peanut butter, jelly, mac and cheese, Chef Boyardee, canned vegetables, canned fruit, soups, tuna, Hamburger Helper, chicken and dumplings, canned beans, spaghetti, and spaghetti sauce.

All NHS members were required to donate 15 items, and were encouraged to ask family, friends and neighbors for donations. However,

anyone from either campus or the community is welcome to donate.

All donations were dropped off in either Mrs. Schieppe’s room (812) or Mrs. Maxwell’s room (810) prior to Friday, March 26. Then, on the 26, NHS members will take the donations to the food pantry.

The NHS members collected around 3,800 items of food, which is an average collection amount.

This was also the first year the food drive only involved NHS members.

In addition, they not only collected the normal amount, but more healthy choices of foods were donated as well.

The donations went to the O’Fallon Food Pantry, which provides food to over 90 families in the area.

This project also upholds NHS’ ideal of service.

“We feel it is important to do something for our community,” Mrs. Schieppe said. “I’m proud of our members for stepping up and supporting such a huge effort for our community.

“I’m proud of our members for stepping up and supporting such a huge effort for our community.”

-Mrs. Schieppe

JAKE FUSSELL Seniors Lexi Dunnells and Brandon Daniels strive to do their best inside and outside the classroom.These overachievers were named the Students of the Month for March.

BY CAITLYN COON features@othsprowler.com Every student is different. Everyone has different likes, goals and attitudes.

Some, such as Lexi Dunnells, have the goals and attitudes to be recognized and rewarded.

April Student of the Month, Lexi Dunnells, is a great influence to her fellow students. In school, she is involved in numerous activities including varsity soccer, FCA, NHS, Math Team, Panther Beat, Blue Girls, Lifesavers, Saturday Scholars, Sports Psychology Club, French Club and Robotics.

Though these activities, mixed with homework, keep Dunnells busy, she still finds time outside of school to do a few things she enjoys.

At her church, Dunnells is a eucharistic minister, lector, usher, and she is involved in her church’s youth group.

Also, Dunnells volunteers at Scott Air Force Base’s Flight Medicine Clinic and Airport Elementary School with the Special Needs and Behavioral Disorder classroom.

“I think my best quality is that I’m easy to talk to. I will literally talk to anyone, [about] anything, at anytime, so I’m very open and outgoing, and I am genuinely interested in what people have to say,” Dunnells said.

As for future plans, “I will be a surgeon and eventually move my work to African areas in poverty,” Dunnells said.

After high school, Dunnells plans on attending either Northwestern University or Penn State University to study pre-med and

African studies so that she can travel to Africa and help the poor people of that area.

Brandon Daniels is one of the two lucky students of the month, and he has rightly earned this title.

As a student of OTHS, Daniels has participated in a number of extracurricular activities. Varsity soccer, Lifesavers, Spanish Club, Sports Psychology Club, SADD, Blizzard, Robotics, NHS and Saturday Scholars make up the list.

Daniels is involved in many out-of-school activities, mostly having to do with his church, St. Nicholas. He was a leader at the Luke 18 retreat, helps with Vacation Bible School, the St. Nick Youth Group and volunteers at the Karen House, which is a house for abused women and children.

Next year, Daniels will attend Missouri State University to play soccer and start in the pre-med program. There, he plans to earn his Bachelors degree, and after that he will attend Logan College where he will train to be either a chiropractor or a kinesthesiologist.

“I'm surprised at the number of people who have come up to me to congratulate me,” Daniels said when asked the best thing about being student of the month. “It's nice having people notice and appreciate all the effort I put into my life every day.”

One thing he'd like to tell other students at OTHS? “Don't judge people, avoid drama and don't abuse the privileges you have. It’s just as easy as it sounds; you just have to make an effort.”

“Don’t judge people, avoid drama, and don’t abuse the privileges you have. It’s just as easy as it sounds; you just have to make an effort.”

-Brandon Daniels, senior

2010-2011 Student Council Representatives Executive Board

• President- Corey Walsh • Vice President- Kaitlin Wolf • Secretary- Erica Cain • Treasurer- Claire Hagarty • Press Secretary- Tarina Crook

Sophomore Class Officers

OTHS musicians play at RJ’s, raise money for Haiti

BY ASHLEIGH JACKSON features@othsprowler.com Juniors Chandler Schaltenbrand and Alison Lyons are among the few teenagers in the United States, who, despite their youth, have found a unique way of giving back to an international tragedy.

In order to raise awareness and funds toward the crisis in Haiti, Schaltenbrand and Lyons held a benefit show at RJ's Computer Place on March 13.

Throughout the course of the five hour event, various local bands performed while friends socialized in the quaint, dim-lit lounge located in downtown O'Fallon.

“I hope people came together and had a good time, all while knowing that the donation that they made for getting into the show was all for a good cause,” Schaltenbrand said.

Although the benefit show was not directly associated with the French Club's Haiti fundraiser, all proceedings were attributed to their efforts.

According to Schaltenbrand and Lyons, the show presented a few road blocks as far as booking performers. The overall experience, however, proved to be a meaningful one.

“It's rewarding to yourself when you're able to help other people. No matter what you do, you can always find ways to help,” Lyons said.

Schaltenbrand further reinforces the idea of

Junior Class Officers

giving back to charities across the nation and throughout the globe.

“There's got to be that one person who actually will go out and try to make a difference.

Even if people don't believe in the cause, there will always be that one person to support you,” Schaltenbrand said.

ASHLEIGH JACKSON Junior Chandler Schaltenbrand, ‘08 graduate Ben Martin, and juniors Alyssa Watts and Mollie Rittenhouse enjoy the music at the RJ benefit show.The show was held to help the earthquake-striken nation of Haiti.

Senior Class Officers

• President- Mohnish Soudararajan • Vice President- Ally Siegler • Secretary- Lexi Newcomb • Treasurer- Sam Cowin

• President- Alyssa Soehlke • Vice President- Mackenzie McIntyre • Secretary- Ellie Edwards • Treasurer- Sarah Russel

• President- Alaina Bauer • Vice President-Casey Truitt • Secretary- Alex Jenkins • Treasurer- Maddie Cunningham

Sophomore Class Reps

Junior Class Reps

Senior Class Reps

• Sarah Bradley • Andrew Cunningham • Katie Ehlers • Kylie Evgenides • Joshua Johnson • Kylee Lawhead • Alexa Owens • Brittany Wood • Alex Riba • Kevin Marquez

• Katrina Anderson • Paige Ball • Erin Cain • Kelly Eastman • Rachel Federhofer • Maggie Fleming • Victoria Ham • Brady Page • Jay Stallons • Caplin Lawrence • Dan Hogue

• Robby Bohnenstiehl • Alex Consunji • Sarah Fowler • Haley Holton • Dallas Pineda • Katie Milleville • Sam Summerlin

8

IN FOCUS

Past proms: the good

‘50s

The biggest fashion craze for Prom in the ‘50s was big dresses. Most of the dresses were strapless with a silky belt. The bottoms of the dresses were large, made of tulle and usually did not touch the floor. It seemed as if the trend was to wear lighter pastel colors. During this time period, girls commonly had shorter hair styles with large curls.

‘70

‘60s

The styles were very structured in the ‘60s.

Dresses were cut with square necks and the bottoms were normally very tailored and straight. In the ‘60s, girls preferred to wear lighter colors, but updos started to become more prominent.

“A very few Paisley tuxedo coats were worn by the more ‘risque’ of the guys,” math teacher Mr. Pat Herrington said. He attended Prom in 1968.

1956 YEARBOOK

Dresses started to beco They were still very simple b styles. Lighter colors were to grow their hair longer for being slim and simple to more “I wore a long peach dress back,” 1979 graduate and Riley said.

1966 YEARBOOK

How to effectively ask a date to prom Q

BY KATY MANESS features@othsprowler.com

Throughout history, there have been many different ways that a guy or girl has asked his or her significant other to Prom. Although some may have already fell victim to the embarrassing, messy, and even horrific ways of asking, it is not too late for others.

Below are listed some thoughtful, creative, and overall foolproof ideas. Each idea involves a hypothetical guy, Billy, and a girl, Jane.

Do: Make it memorable Billy wants to ask Jane to this year’s Prom. He is involved in a lot of the plays and performances here at OTHS, and Jane always comes to watch.

When Billy’s part comes on, he faces Jane in the audience, asks her to come up on stage, and drops the question.

Senior Anna Husemann was put in this scenario at last year’s February Frolics. Her boyfriend of two years, 2009 graduate David Bradfield, was an emcee. He manipulated his line to ask her up on stage, and to prom.

“I was kind of embarrassed and wanted to slap him, but I was mostly just surprised.

The reaction from everyone afterward was absolutely worth it. Plus, it’s a memory that I’ll never forget,” Husemann said.

Many girls prefer this method because of its sentimental value and thoughtfulness.

Do: Make it private and romantic Billy could take Jane out to the Spaghetti Factory in St. Louis for an evening alone.

He opens the car door for her when he picks her up, he buys her a nice meal and is a perfect gentleman the entire night.

Once they finish their dinner, Billy looks in Jane’s eyes and says, “Will you go to Prom with me?” Jane smiles, blushes, and says that she would be happy to.

For a less expensive, yet romantic and personal way to drop the question, Billy could have set up a picnic in the park and perhaps written out the word “Prom?” in frosting on a cake.

Do: Make it silly and fun

Billy could write out the letters P, R, O, M, and “?” on five separate small slips of paper, then slip each one into a different balloon.

He could inflate the balloons and tie them together with ribbon or make a bouquet out of them, with a note saying who it is from. Then he would drop them off at Jane’s front porch and she would get a pleasant mystery to solve.

Don’t like that idea? Billy could decorate his potential date’s car and leave the invitation in the windshield wiper. Common ways to decorate someone’s car are to separate oreos and stick the side with the frosting onto the car. Silly string or car paint can also be used.

Now that we have covered how to ask, let us cover how not to ask. These unfortunate scenarios involve hypothetical guy, Brad, and girl, Kelly.

Don’t: Be brief and unthoughtful Let’s say Brad wants to ask Kelly. Every once in a while they see each other in the hallway.

Brad sees Kelly on her way to geometry in the 600 hall, walks over to her and says, “So, I’m thinking about going to Prom this year. If I do, wanna be my date or whatever?”

By saying “I’m thinking about going” and describing Kelly as his potential “date or whatever,” Brad is implying that Kelly is unimportant to him.

She might feel that she is just a “back-up date.” Kelly is offended and obviously says no.

Don’t: Be nervous and unsure One day, Brad drives over to Kelly’s house and knocks on her door. She answers and says hello to his unannounced arrival.

They talk about their day, recent events and so on, before Brad quickly and quietly says,“So, um, have you heard of Prom? Well, of course you have. Anyway, I was thinking about going, like with a date. I was wondering if you would like to be my date? But if not, that’s okay...so, never mind. I shouldn’t have asked.”

Although Brad is obviously lacking in selfconfidence, he should not have asked this way because he did not give Kelly the chance to consider accepting the invite, and he pretty much turned himself down.

Also, if Kelly did not want to go with him, she would feel guilty. No one wants a date who is with them out of guilt.

When it comes time to ask that special someone for accompaniment on Prom night, remember to keep it confident, creative and caring.

One day, Jane walks up to her locker as a part of her regular routine, and is very surprised to find that Billy (the boy she likes) has decorated her locker to ask her to Prom! She is very flattered because the way Billy asked was creative, thoughtful, and sweet.

ART BY KATY MANESS

The next morning before school, Jane comes in early to decorate Billy’s locker with wrapping paper and construction paper. Billy walks up to his locker first hour and is happy to find her response.

“

APRIL 9, 2010

d, the bad, the tragic

0s

ome more loose in the ‘70s. but started to have flowing in style, and girls started updos. The suits went from e colorful and extravagant. s with a sash that tied in the English teacher Ms. Diane

‘90s

‘80s

This decade’s styles for Prom went from big to glamorous. Girls went back to wearing fitted dresses with sequins. Also, the hair styles became much simpler. Guys started to wear longer tux jackets and hair that was “high and tight.”

“The big trend was very colorful dresses with shoes and purses that matched,” 1994 OTHS graduate and Spanish teacher Mrs. Libby Magee said.

There is only one word that can sum up the style of the ‘80s: “big”. Girls wore dresses that resembled ball gowns, and puffy sleeves started to become all the rage. This is when girls also started wearing more vibrant colors. Big hair was very popular for both genders. Mullets were common to see, as well.

1976 YEARBOOK

9

1985 YEARBOOK

1995 YEARBOOK

BY JANELLE PFEIFER

Question of the month: Comfort vs. fashion What music do you want to hear at Prom?

“The good stuff. The kind you can get your boogie on to and you can shake your groove thang to.”

-Sam Poole, junior

“ Not all rap, but I do like songs with good bass that people will dance to.”

-Kortney Betzler, sophomore

“I like rap a lot but if they could put more of a variation, like Death Cab For Cutie or more indie songs.”

-Chelsea Butler, senior

“I want the classics. The good ol’ stuff we all like.”

-Andre Smith, junior INTERVIEWS BY ALEXIS HARDY

Is there a compromise to have both at prom?

BY KIRA WORTHINGTON features@othsprowler.com

Many heated arguments have been debated over time pertaining to the subject of fashion.

While, some believe that the pursuit of vanity is worth the pain, others do not.

On this great debate, senior Blair Branch said, “It really depends on the event. Sometimes you have to put comfort aside. Even if you don't like [fashion], under certain circumstances it is necessary to do so.”

“Comfort is definitely more important than fashion, but when I have to, I will get dressed up,” junior Elizabeth Bell said.

From threaded eyebrows, bikini waxes and

spiked heels to pantie hose and heavy jewelry, everyone finds themselves eventually making an occasional sacrifice for the sake of looking good.

“Beauty is pain. Which is really funny because I like to bum around a lot, but when I want to look good, I suck it up and get over it,” junior Tiffany Aburto said.

On the other hand, some students feel beauty comes from how one feels about themself.

“As long as I'm comfy I know I look cute,” senior Sarah McNease said.

Whether it means taking chances with pain in order to look good or making natural comfort your beauty, there is no doubt that fashion and comfort are two comparable, yet strikingly different, issues.

“As long as I’m comfy I know I look cute.”

-Sarah McNease, senior

‘Happy Madison’ productions help film SADD Prom Mock DUI

BY TESSA DOCKINS features@othsprowler.com

Every year, people look forward to Prom, but not everyone is safe once Prom is over.

With SADD’s Mock DUI on March 31, people should pay a little more attention to what they plan on doing after Prom.

This year, the Mock DUI is being made into a movie with the help of Jeff Bergman, who has helped with the production of Happy Madison movies.

The broadcast club is excited to have him aiding them in the production of the movie, which will make students more aware of the consequences of drinking and driving.

“Having Mr. Bergman gives us a great opportunity to make a quality movie with a strong impact that students might actually enjoy,” Executive Producer junior Jake Hamilton said.

The main point of the Mock DUI is to show teens what could happen if they are not careful with making certain decisions about after Prom.

The movie will be about a group of teenagers that have been drinking after Prom.

Senior Jenny Stroot plays the drunk driver that has four other people in the car. While coming home from prom, they cause a car crash.

Junior Jake Fussell dies, junior Kayla Erney and senior Caitlin Laverdure are critically injured, and junior John McKeown is injured.

The mock funeral shows what could happen to someone’s friends because of drinking and driving. It shows how hurt family and friends can be from someone making a mistake.

Whether or not someone is the driver that has been drinking, people should keep their friends from making stupid decisions.

“Having Mr. Bergman gives us a great opportunity to make a quality movie with a strong impact.”

-Jake Hamilton, junior

10

FEATURES

APRIL 9, 2010

Konnichiha Keitai!

Will cell phone novel writing be the next big thing?

BY JENNIFER BAILEY features@othsprowler.com

Once upon a time, novels were created with parchment and ink, but no more.

Since the romanticized days of the past, novels have been written with typewriters, computers and, now, cell phones.

According to yahoo.com, this relatively new trend, called keitai, started in Japan in the ‘90s.

Writers, who prefer to use pen names and stay anonymous, use their phones to write about 1000-character pages, which they then upload to publishing web sites. Once uploaded, readers give feedback, guess at plot twists and even help fix typos. The various sites have millions of stories and over 6 million users.

The concept is similar to fanfiction.net, where writers can go and write about characters from books, comics, TV shows, movies, etc. A big difference is many keitai writers’ works are being published and selling millions.

A 15-year-old Japanese girl who goes by the pen name Bunny, has sold about 110,000 copies of her three-volume book “Wolf Boy x Natural Girl.” She has made over $600,000 from the sales.

In 2007, another writer, Yume-Hotaru, was 22 when he started his cell phone novel.

According to CNN.com, by 2008 he had published the novel called “First Experience,” which was a top seller in one of Tokyo’s biggest bookstores. In 2002, Yoshi, who most consider the first cell-phone novelist, self-published “Deep Love.” The book sold almost 3 million copies, was adapted for film, a TV show and Manga, or Japanese comics.

Other “novels” have been adapted for TV shows and movies, as well. Keitai stories have

even topped Japan’s top-selling list. In 2007, five of the 10 top-selling novels had started as cell phone novels.

So what makes these stories so popular? Two things: their subject matter and accessibility.

The stories are often about sensitive subjects such as drugs, sex, pregnancy, abortion, rape and disease. These stories are intriguing and inviting because of their topics and how they seem, at least partially, autobiographical.

Despite these deep topics, the writing is described as “diary-like,” “a note passed in class” and mediocre. This description makes one wonder how are these “books” so popular, if they are written so poorly?

Because of their accessibility.

The stories are available on cell phones and can be written there. With popularity of texting and cell phones among teens and young adults, mostly female fans and writers, this has become a popular form of entertainment in Japan.

“The reason why cell phone novels are popular is because most people use public transportation to school or office in Japan,” Rie Tange, a Jap anes e

woman, who works in New York, said in an email to ABCNEWS. “Most of my co-workers spend at 30 minutes to come to our office. The train in a morning is so packed. It is impossible to open a book.”

Tange herself is not a fan of the novels. She describes them as “easy to predict and cheesy.”

Tange also said, “Those girls that write cell phone novels, they are immature writers and don’t have enough skills.”

As with any technological advancement, there will be people who love it and people who hate it. Currently, according to ABCNEWS. com, the fad is starting to die in Japan, but is spreading to other countries. Could it come state side?

Seniors Kat Statz and Cassandra Whalen say no because, “Americans don’t have the attention or the motivation.”

Statz also said, “Japan is so high tech, and so used to

working with technology that it’s easier for them [to produce these stories].”

Paul Saffo, a Silicon Valley-based technology analyst, thinks it is unlikely as well.

He said it would be more difficult for it to catch on in America because of the language difference. The Japanese language is written in characters, which can express an idea with one character; where as in English, it is necessary to spell out every word in a sentence to get the idea across.

He also said that texting is more deeply embedded in Japanese pop culture than it is in American communication.

“In the first cell phone service in Japan, it was expensive to make calls, but the provider gave away messages for free. The result was all the high school kids didn’t make calls and just messaged. The writing methods are much more compact in Japan. You do a couple of keystrokes per character and one character can represent a much bigger concept. The Roman alphabet has a disadvantage for small screens,” Saffo said.

Julie Ask, a wireless analyst at Jupiter Research, agrees with Saffo. She also believes American will not want to read or write that much on a small cell phone screen.

“Text messaging is limiting, with a 160-character limit and you’re using 12-tab text pad, so it would be a laborious process,” Ask said.

Instead, she and Saffo think Americans will continue to the mobile PC-like devices such as the Sony Reader and the Amazon Kindle.

For now, it is just speculation on whether or not keitai will make it state side. But who knows? The next great work of literature could be written on a cell phone.

JAKE HAMILTON

Bleachermaniac members have spirit, dedication

BY ASHLEIGH JACKSON features@othsprowler.com Pleasing the crowd with swagger-filled dance moves and uplifting the student body through cheerful decorations, Bleachermaniac dancers and club members undeniably have an overabundance of school spirit.

As an exciting aspect of OTHS pep rallies, the Bleachermaniac dance squad effortlessly pumps up the crowd with charismatic dance routines, involving a mixture of original choreography and musical selections guaranteed to make the entire audience get up out of their seats.

Each pep rally, however, presents a new challenge for the notorious dancers.

By each assembly performance varying in style and theme, one might occasionally wonder how the group successfully creates new routines to showcase in front of the student body.

After each rally, the team gathers and listens to the latest popular songs which may hopefully intrigue their audience.

Then, everyone works cohesively in order to create an exciting routine by implementing his or her individual style and personality. “[The Bleachermaniac dancers] work really hard to put out a great performance every pep rally. They have their difficulties, but always pull together and come through at the end like a family,” sponsor Ms. Megan Warma said.

Although it may seem like only fun and

games to outsiders, the team usually trains six hours a week and every day after school during the week of pep rally. The result is intense practices but noteworthy performances.

“We’re a loud group so you have to learn how to take your time and work well with others.

Sometimes we get into disagreements about what to do, but we’re a really big family,” junior Rachel Geller said.

Performing in front of peers and administrators is, imaginably, a hard task, and some might not be able to handle the challenge.

Yet, members of the team exemplify what it means to perform and have a great time doing so.

“Before I go on, I [get] really nervous, but when I get out there it’s such an adrenaline rush, [and] I get very excited,” Geller said.

Although the Bleachermaniac dancers are renowned for their exciting dance performances, another group of the same title works behind the scenes in order to ensure school spirit throughout the hallways and during various sporting events.

The Bleachermaniac club, which differs immensely from the front-in-center dance team, is occasionally overlooked or unrecognized.

Their major duties include decorating the football stadium for Homecoming, adorning athlete lockers for seasonal sports, organizing the Panther Olympics and regularly attending Pack the Place.

TYLER KLAUS Dancers junior Kate Summers, senior Kayla Doughty, junior Rachel Geller, sophomore Natali Hudson and freshmen Damishia Curry dance to “Drop It Low” during the spring pep rally. Other songs incorporated into their performance were the following: “Telephone” by Lady Gaga and Beyonce, and “I Gets Crazy” by Nicki Minaj.

“Bleachermaniacs is fun, just come to a meeting to see what it’s like to join next year,” junior Megan Reinacherr said.

Ultimately, Bleachermaniacs demonstrates what it means to have passion, heart and above all, school pride.

Good investment: Learning foreign languages

BY NATALIE BUCH features@othsprowler.com In reaction to the many natural disasters around the world, the World Language Clubs are stepping it up to raise money for victims.

The French Club, for example, has been raising money for the French-speaking nation of Haiti in many ways around school.

However, the World Language Clubs are not only helping the citizens of foreign countries, but they are also giving students a number of personal benefits.

One of these is global awareness. In their World Language classes, students learn about the cultures of those countries.

For instance, Señora Berta Schneider’s Honors Spanish IV classes recently learned “the language of the fan.” The handheld fan was a very important part of high society in Spanish culture for many years as a medium of secret communication.

Another benefit is money. The OTHS World Language Department and Clubs often save students thousands of dollars in college tuition.

“Students who have studied two or more years of a world language should ask during the

admissions process at their university of choice about the possibility to test out of language classes. It might be possible to completely test out of much of the language requirement for one’s major!” German teacher Ms. Kathy Ashby Ontiveros said.

Thirdly, a competitive edge is perhaps one of the best benefits students of foreign language gain. In our culturally diverse nation, knowing a second language heightens one’s marketability, and job opportunities skyrocket.

Also, as many new students to the OTHS World Language Department soon experience, there is a little friendly competition among the

German, French and Spanish students.

Among the teachers, however, the friendly competition is just that- friendly and fun. Both Ms. Ashby and Spanish teacher Mrs. Libby Magee agree that all the languages offered here are great languages to learn.

“All world language teachers at OTHS value all three of the languages we offer. The important thing is to take any foreign language because there are so many benefits to learning and knowing any other language,” Mrs. Magee said.

APRIL 9, 2010

FEATURES

Pop Culture Showdown

BY JAKE FUSSEL AND ALEXIS HARDY features@othsprowler.com

One teacher takes on one student once more in an epic battle to determine who knows more about culture. Senior Zach Lepere faced math teacher Ms. Taran Holdener in this month’s showdown of ‘90s knowledge.

Math teacher Ms. Holdener and senior Zach Lepere face-off in a battle of ‘90s culture knowledge

Question 1: On the show “Rugrats,” who was the evil cousin of Tommy who tortured the Rugrats?

Holdener: I'm just going to say a name...

David?

Lepere: Alexandra.

Lepere, you were somewhat close but that is still incorrect. The correct answer is Angelica Pickles.

Question 2: What is the name of the "Pokemon” series main character who is the master of Pikachu?

Holdener: I got nothing on that one.

Lepere: Goliath? Michael?

Goliath? No, neither of you got that one. The correct answer is Ash Ketchum.

Question 3: In which movie did the main character say, "Life is like a box of chocolates; you never know what you're going to get?”

Holdener: Forrest Gump!

Lepere: Forrest Gump.

Yes! Both of you got that one right. The score is now 1-1.

Question 4: On April 24, 1990, the U.S. sent the first large telescope into space. What was this telescope named?

Holdener: Oh, this one's going to bug me if I don't get it... (After pondering it for a good ten minutes)... I got nothin’'.

Lepere: I don't know that one.

I am sure you have both heard of it. The Hubble Space Telescope is the correct answer. It is still tied 1-1.

Question 5: In 1996, the first cloned animal was created. What was its name?

Holdener: It was a lamb. Lolly?... Lolly?

PHOTOS BY ALEXIS HARDY

11

Lepere: It was a Labrador or monkey or something. Spot?

Holdener, you were so close! It was actually a sheep named Dolly. Lepere, you were quite a bit off. The score is still 1-1.

Question 6: In what year did the Soviet Union dissolve?

Holdener: Let's go with... 1993.

Lepere: 1991.

Lepere got that one! The score is now Lepere 2, Holdener 1.

Question 7: Who was the princess of Wales that died in a tragic car accident that devastated the world in 1997?

Holdener: That would be... Princess Diana.

Lepere: Princess Diana.

Both of you answered correctly. The score is now Lepere 3 and Holdener 2. Holdener, you can still make a comeback at this point in the game!

Question 8: In 1994, which famous athlete was charged for the murder of his ex-wife?

Holdener: That's an easy one! O. J. Simpson.

Lepere: ...O. J. Simpson.

Yes, that was an easier one. You both answered correctly. The score is Lepere 4 and Holdener 3.

Question 9: Which Spice Girl's name starts with a 'P'?

Holdener: That was... Posh Spice.

Lepere: Posh!

Both of you got that one. The score is Lepere 5 and Holdener 4. It is still pretty close, Holdener can tie it up with this last question.

Question 10: Who was Bill Clinton's vice president?

Holdener: I got this one, Al Gore.

Lepere: Al Gore.

Zach took this one! The final score is Lepere 6 and Holdener 5.

It looks like students have defeated teachers in both showdowns. Better luck next time teachers.

Senior uses love for talking to place 15th at State for Speech and Acting team

BY BRYCE RADICK features@othsprowler.com

BRYCE RADICK

On Feb. 13, senior Emily Turk took 15th for Speech and Acting team at the State level for Impromptu Speaking. Turk credits her success to the reason she initially joined Speech and Acting team: her love of talking. "[I joined] because a friend asked me to because I love talking," Turk said.

Turk has participated in Speech and Acting team all four years of high school and says she has always performed relatively well.

Last year, Turk made it to Sectionals, but could not clinch a high enough place to advance to State.

This year, however, Turk made it to State with a first place finish in Declamation and second in Impromptu.

At State, Turk performed in Impromptu, an event in which participants get two minutes to prepare a five minute speech on one of three topics given to her.

Turk has captained many events, but this year she was captain for Declamation, Impromptu, and Extemporaneous.

In addition to her Speech and Acting team success, Turk participates in many extracurricular activities. She has been in German Club for four years and is its current President.

In addition, she has been active in Model

U. N. and choir for three years and the school musical for two.

Turk also serves as president on her youth group's youth council.

An avid lover of “The Bachelor,” Turk also enjoys traveling and performing at the Looking Glass Playhouse.

Turk's view of herself might be one of the most outstanding things about her. "[I'm] outgoing. I really like to laugh. [I'm] kind of crazy," she said, and went on to say that she was "different and animated."

In the future, Turk plans to attend Bradley University, where she will pursue a degree in early childhood education. She hopes to one day be a children’s counselor.

Local bands expand to St. Louis metro area

BY KATY MANESS features@othsprowler.com

Sometimes it is not only the bands and artists that play on MTV or VH1 that young people have on their iPods, but rather some of their close friends or acquaintances they are listening to.

The 618 area is a buzzing local scene, especially when music lovers venture to smaller local concert venues such as Illegal Tone Recordings, also known as ITR, in downtown Belleville or Fubar in St. Louis.

Many of the youth in this area, including students and alumni of OTHS, are involved in popular local bands or solo projects.

Among these are Owen Pye and the Sunday School Band and Emily Marie Anne.

Recognizable from this past year's Homecoming Bash is Owen Pye and the Sunday School Band.

Owen Pye and the Sunday School Band is made up of four musicians: Owen Pye on guitar and lead vocals, Joel Sprenger on lead guitar, Ryan Fancher on drums and Benjamin Martin, an OTHS '08 graduate, on bass guitar. Former

member John Mueth can be heard playing keyboard on earlier recordings.

A self-described “acoustic core” indie band, the music is a mix falling between folk and rock.

Pye and Martin have been playing music all their lives, first picking up guitars at the age of five. However, the group did not come together until Pye met his wife, settled down and joined up with his future bandmates.

Originally working as a solo project, Pye teamed up with Sprenger, Fancher, Martin and Mueth two years ago to form a full band. They have been recording and playing shows together since then.

The guys are inspired by family, real world

events, personal hardships, politics and God. Typical shows for Owen Pye and the Sunday School Band are in small, slightly cramped venues.

“We like playing in small, packed venues beacuse everyone feels like a family," said Martin.

Fans of Death Cab For Cutie, Copeland and Wilco are likely to enjoy the sweet sounds of Owen Pye and the Sunday School Band.

Visit www. owenpye.com for information regarding show listings, updates, photo gallaries, merchandise and more.

Like Owen Pye and the Sunday School Band, Emily Marie Anne originally started as a solo project by ‘08 OTHS alumni Emily Rautio.

“We like playing in small, packed venues because everyone feels like a family.”

-Ben Martin, ‘08 graduate

As she started getting more involved in the process of song writing and preforming shows, she added Sarah Gallaher on bells and background vocals, Mari Juntunen on violin and background vocals and Benjamin Martin, the same one from Owen Pye, on guitar, bass guitar and samples.

Rautio covers lead vocals, piano and some guitar herself.

Rautio met Gallaher and Juntunen at SIUE, while Rautio and Martin have known each other since freshman year at OTHS. Martin describes the band’s current sound as “independent and piano driven,” but the band plans on making more techno and dance oriented music in the near future as well.

Based on both the highs and lows of the human existence, a majority of their songs relate to the average life of a young college student.

Artists such as Brooke Waggoner, Ben Gibbard and Feist inspire Emily Marie Anne, and they have similar fan bases.

Even though young musicians around the St. Louis Metro Area may have very distinct, contrasting styles, they are all apart of the lively and productive music scene of the 618.

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ENTERTAINMENT

APRIL 9, 2010

MOVIE REVIEW

‘Alice in Wonderland’

Mixed breed between novels graces theaters

BY CAITLYN COON features@othsprowler.com Last month, the anxiously awaited “Alice In Wonderland” arrived in theaters, and as always, director Tim Burton added a curious spin to this already mad movie.

“This [version] had more of a moral. It was kind of about making decisions because in the beginning, [Alice] was indecisive. In the beginning, she had life changing decisions, and she just ran away. She knew what she wanted to do, but she had to become Alice again,” junior Audrey Crain said.

Though called “Alice In Wonderland,” the story Burton told was far from the original. This story was actually Alice’s return to Wonderland, and the land she tumbles into is far different than before.

The colors and carefree madness associated with wonderland are gone, and in their place are none other than darkness and sorrow.

We learn, as viewers, that Alice’s Wonderland has fallen into a state of despair since the Red Queen managed to obtain the crown from her sister, the White Queen.

Thus, once joyful characters are now quiet and burdened with fear.

Though not all of the characters return to the big screen, the most loved and well known are back. The White Rabbit, Mad Hatter, March Hare, Dormouse, Cheshire-Cat, Tweedle-dee, Tweedle-dum, and many more attempt to help

Alice in her journey to reestablish the White Queen as the ruler of the land.

Playing the Mad Hatter, Johnny Depp spends the movie lapsing in and out of sanity, and he manages to capture the essence of his character perfectly.

Anger burned in his eyes as he thought of things that had happened to his world since Alice’s last visit to his never ending tea party, and through flashbacks, he helps to explain what caused the drastic change to his world.

“The plot added to the story. It gave me more to follow,” junior Zach Sterling said.

The star of the show, however, is the Red Queen of Hearts. The Red Queen is played by Helena Bonham Carter, who is better known for her character from the “Harry Potter” movies, Bellatrix Lestrange.

Not only does Carter smoothly morph into the role of the Red Queen, but she supplies the viewers with a sense that all that she wants is to be loved rather than simply feared.

“He tried to kill me! the Red Queen shouts in pained betrayal at the end of the movie after Crispin Glover’s character, the Knave of Hearts, tries stabbing her.

“This movie was legit. Mad Hatter and the Red Queen played their roles very well,” junior Victoria O’Connor said.

Overall, “Alice In Wonderland” is a fantastic movie. It is most definitely a film worth seeing.

“Mad Hatter and the Red Queen played their roles very well.”

DISNEY ENTERPRISES, INC./MCT Helena Bonham Carter stars in “Alice in Wonderland” as the Red Queen. Tim Burton intended the film to be almost a transition between the two books by Lewis Carroll: “Alice in Wonderland” and “Through the Looking Glass.”

-Victoria O’Connor, junior

TV REVIEW

Tenacity vs. Rocksolid

Blago cooks to impress in ‘Celebrity Apprentice’

BY JAKE HAMILTON features@othsprowler.com On March 14, the two-hour premiere of “Celebrity Apprentice” on NBC brought a slew of new celebrities, but the same degree of entertainment.

For the premiere, the teams were split by gender. The girls, Tenacity, and the guys, Rocksolid, were tasked with running a diner for charity.

Among the celebrities, former Illinois governor Rod Blagojevich stood out in his chef ’s hat and wild hair-do.

Not only was he acting as restaurant server, but he had a witty attitude.

“I never cooked when I was governor, I

cooked up results for the people,” Blagojevich said.

Cyndi Lauper, Goldberg, Sinbad and Sharon Osborne are also among the new cast members of the Apprentice.

Watching the rich and famous try to warm up to Mr. Trump gives the audience a sense of hilarity that makes the viewers want to come back for more.

Overall, The Celebrity Apprentice is an entertaining show, with its predictable twists and undeniably funny characters.

The show requires an acquired taste for cheesy suspense, though, and patience with repetitive commercial breaks and bad timing.

“Celebrity Apprentice” airs every Sunday at 9 p.m. on NBC. In the latest episode Trump fired Blago.

MCT 2010

DISNEY ENTERPRISES, INC./MCT Johnny Depp stars in “Alice in Wonderland” as the Mad Hatter, who slips in and out of sanity throughout the movie.

The film that cost approximately $200 million brought in a domestic total of $295,513,657 by March 29.

MOVIE REVIEW

Theatrical tragedy ‘Remember Me’ aims high, crashes fast

BY KIRA WORTHINGTON features@othsprowler.com Striking the theaters on March 12, director Allen Coulter’s “Remember Me” showered its audience with melodramatic teenage romance and tragedy.

“Twilight” heart-throb Robert Pattinson, Pierce Brosnan, Emilie de Ravin from “Brick,” Academy Award winner Chris Cooper from “Adaptation” and Academy Award nominee Lena Olin “Chocolat” star in the newest romantic drama.

From beginning to end, the movie is tragedy and sorrow followed by a kiddy ride style roller coaster of ups and downs.

Beginning with a traumatic death and ending in a similar fashion, the highest climaxes of plot to this movie are devastation and despair.

Tyler Hawkins, played by Pattinson, is a grief stricken college boy in New York City, and his father, played by Brosnan, is a detached businessman trying to cope with his own grief.

Through a bet suggested by his hysterical roommate, Hawkins quickly falls in love with the spunky, yet overly cautious, Aly Craig.

Craig, played by de Ravin, is a semi-normal young college student who is using tragedy to better herself while her father, played by Cooper, is a police officer trying to protect his daughter.

Their relationship begins with deception, struggles through the strains of past tragedy and ends in ashes, literally.

According to “Rotten Tomatoes,” a wellknown movie review web site, “Remember Me is an unforgettable story about the power of love, the strength of family, the importance of living passionately and treasuring every day of one’s life.”

Throughout the entire movie there is an

air of tragedy and general “woe is me” to the scenario.

From the beginning to the end, “Remember Me” found a way to make even the funniest scenes serious.

While everyone else was sobbing through the second half of the movie, all I could think of was, “Wow, this movie is one really tragic suckfest.”

Seriously, who uses the 9/11 tragedy to further hype the emotions of an overall depressing and aggravating movie?

Apparently writer Will Fetters thinks history making events are fair game for teenage drama.

In respect of those “Twilight” fan-girls that want to see Pattinson with his shirt off, but do not want the movie ruined for them completely, I will leave how it ends a mystery.

For acting, on a scale of one to ten, ten being great quality, “Remember Me” deserves a six for dramatic suspense and the actors abilities to make the audience hyper-emotional.

As far as film directing and screen play qualities, I would give the movie an eight and a half. There were some really stand-out scenes that catch the viewer by surprise.

For story line and plot it earned a three. As an overall movie “Remember Me” deserves a five and a half.

The ultimate question: “Is it worth the $10 to see it in theaters?”

The answer: “It depends on how much the viewer likes Robert Pattinson, it was a nice try.”

If the viewer waits for the movie to come out on Redbox, they can spend just a dollar watching it from the comfort of their own home with the added advantage of being able to pause for restroom breaks.

“...an unforgettable story about the power of love, the strength of family, the importance of living passionately...”

-Rotten Tomatoes

SPORTS

APRIL 9, 2010

13

Boys take fourth at State Basketball finishes season with 30-4 record

BY JOHN DAVIS sports@othsprowler.com

MS. MARY DEMPSEY On March 20, the Panthers pose for a picture after receiving their fourth place medals and trophy. They finished the season with a 30-4 record after two losses in the Class 4A Final Four.

Dance team places in all three categories at State

BY ELLIE KANASKIE sports@othsprowler.com OTHS’ varsity Golden Girls put it all on the floor March 13 when they traveled to the University of Illinois for State.

Although this marked their hold on the State title, the dancers had to overcome some hefty blows to the team before coming out victorious.

Just three days prior to the competition, senior Alaina Lukavsky and sophomore Jordan Sexton were seriously injured at a practice.

Lukavsky broke her foot in four places while Sexton tore her achilles’ tendon.

Both girls sustained the injuries while performing the same routine, the performance that would later win the team the State title.

Although the injuries were devastating, the girls reworked their entire routine at the last

minute to cope with the loss of these prominent dancers.

The hard work and stress paid off in the end when the Golden Girls took first in AAA pom dance, second in AAA jazz and third in AAA hip hop.

Coach Lara Hollenkamp said she was proud of the girls, especially since the team pulled it together despite the injuries.

“They were determined to do everything they could to make this happen. It’s inspiring that high schoolers could have that kind of drive at this age,” Hollenkamp said.

Coach Anne Brown shared Coach Hollenkamp’s excitement.

“When we lost two girls to injuries, we had to redo everything. The girls called a last minute practice and pulled it together under the gun,” Coach Brown said.

After a stellar 25-2 regular season, the boys’ basketball team excelled in the playoffs and brought home some hardware.

In their second-to-last game before the playoffs, the team clinched the first Southwestern Conference title in school history with a 48-45 win over Edwardsville.

The Panthers won five games in the postseason to advance to the State tournament.

In their first game, the team played Belleville East on March 2. The Panthers trailed for the majority of the game, but came back to avoid the upset. Junior Roosevelt Jones led the second half surge with 14 of his 17 points as the Panthers defeated the Lancers 70-65. Sophomore Roy Bullock and junior Josh Buie came off the bench to add 12 and 11 points respectively.

After defeating Belleville East, the team advanced to take on Belleville West in the Regional championship game. The boys led for nearly the entire game, at one point amassing a 20 point lead. The Maroons mounted a furious fourth-quarter comeback, but fell short as the Panthers won the Regional 65-58.

On March 9, O’Fallon defeated Edwardsville for the third time this season. Behind Jones’ 25 points, the Panthers beat the Tigers 55-51 to advance to the Class 4A Pekin Sectional title game. This marked only the second time in Edwardsville basketball history that the same team had beaten them three times in one season.

“That is a memory that we will always be proud of since all three games had such high stakes this year,” Coach Rick Gibson said.

At the Pekin Sectional final, the team matched up against Normal Community High School. A close game at halftime turned into a blowout as the Panthers easily dispatched the Ironmen 60-42.

On March 16, the boys took on Joliet Township to decide which squad would go to the Final Four. The Panthers defeated Joliet 5350 that included a thrilling overtime to punch their ticket to Peoria. Junior Charles Joy led the team with 14 points, and Jones had 13.

On March 19, the team traveled to the Peoria Civic Center to face the Simeon Wolverines. In a rematch of the 2007 Class AA championship game, the Wolverines emerged victorious 48-42.

The loss eliminated them from title contention, but they played Waukegan in the third place game.

McDonald’s All-American Jereme Richmond dominated the game, scoring 36 points and gathering 16 rebounds in front of his future coach, University of Illinois’ Bruce Weber.

Weber also attended to scout Jones, who currently projects as a mid-major D-I player.

Even though the Panthers didn’t win a game at State, the boys enjoyed the run. The returning members of the squad are already thinking about a return trip to Peoria in 2011.

“I think our team [next season] will be just as good and maybe better, so we expect big things,” Bullock said.

OTHS cheers way to second place at national competition

BY TESSA DOCKINS sports@othsprowler.com Each year, the OTHS cheerleading team has its rewards and valuable experiences.

They began their summer with Champions Camp hosted by Cheer Dynamix All-Star Gym in Tulsa, Okla.

The first night they worked on stunts, pyramids and tumbling at the gym with the owner, Shannon Young.

Then they headed for a camp “adventure” at Robber’s Cave State Park in eastern Oklahoma. Teams were taught cheers and dances, but most emphasis was on stunting, pyramid and transition skills.

The girls worked hard this year cheering at every football and basketball game, while also competing in multiple events.

The team hosted and performed at Spiritfest, which is sponsored by the Bank of O’Fallon and the OTHS Cheerleaders. This year at the Spiritfest, they had several local schools and allstar teams perform routines.

The team competed in all girl large varsity division for all of their competitions.

“We didn’t do as well as we hoped we would have done in competing, but we became closer as a family because of it,” senior Ashley Wallace said.

At WCA, St. Laurence of Orland Park, Ill., beat O’Fallon in the second round of competition.

Penalties led to big point deductions that the Panthers could never recover from.

Over Christmas, the team traveled to Nashville, Tenn., to compete at the World Cheerleaders Association National Championship at Opryland. With very close competition, O’Fallon finished second.

In January, they were assigned to the IHSA Sectional held in Joliet. They competed against 14 other large varsity teams. In a close competition, they finished seventh despite an impressive score of 9.0 of a possible 10.

“I was so pleased with their performance; it was exciting to watch. The routine was full of energy that never stopped until they left the mat,” Coach Tamara Hudson said.

In February, they hosted a winter cheer camp where they taught cheers and dances to over 120 participants.

“Our goal going into competition season was to perform the best that we could and have no regrets about performances,” Coach Hudson said.

“However, our main goal each year is to teach our athletes how to work together as a team because teamwork is a valuable lifetime lesson.”

“The lessons learned about sportmanship, working together towards goals, and striving to win are as important as improving stunts, tumbling, jumps and motions,” Coach Hudson said.

Walsh, Panthers hoping to repeat Softball went 26-9, won Regional championship last year

BY JOHN DAVIS sports@othsprowler.com After a 26-9 season culminating with a trip to the Sectional semifinal, the softball team thinks they can be even better.

Last season, the Lady Panthers lost to Edwardsville three times, including falling to the Tigers in the playoffs.

The girls were up 1-0 in the bottom of the sixth inning when Edwardsville slugger Rachel Coonrod slammed a three-run homer off of O’Fallon ace Kelsie Stoszkus, accounting for the final score of 3-1.

Stoszkus, now a junior, tossed two no-hitters and six shutouts last season. She also finished with a 0.69 ERA, good enough for seventh in

O’Fallon’s record book.

Although Stoszkus will play a big part in the girls’ success, many other players will step up as well. This year’s squad is led by six seniors, and some freshmen and sophomores could see significant playing time.

Based off last year’s success, anticipation for the upcoming season has rarely been higher.

“We have great expectations for this season. We have a really solid team with a lot of experience this year and I think it will be a really awesome season,” senior outfielder Danielle Rolla said.

In their first game of the year, Stozkus tossed a no-hitter to lead the girls’ past Waterloo 11-0.

On Monday, April 5, the Lady Panthers started a week in which they play seven games.

14

SPORTS

APRIL 9, 2010

Experienced Panthers look to qualify for State tourney

BY KIRA WORTHINGTON sports@othsprowler.com

MS. MARY DEMPSEY On March 30, senior Michael Sullivan prepares to serve the ball to his Alton opponent.The Panthers lost to the Redbirds 4-3.

Boys, girls, ready to run

BY JOHN DAVIS sports@othsprowler.com Typically, following a record-breaking season is a tough task. The girls’ track team, however, is sure that they can be even better than last year’s squad.

The girls only lost a couple of seniors to graduation. Last year was one of the program’s best in history. The girls set five school records en route to a strong finish at State.

The 4x800m relay team of junior Chelsea Hendrix and sophomores Brooke Hall, Taylor Klingelhoefer and Kaylee Schmitz will look to top their record-setting time from last year, when they metaled at State.

The girls broke the previous 4x800m record, set in 2008, by nearly 20 seconds.

“I feel pretty confident about the upcoming season...I’m thinking this might just be one of our best seasons so far,” Hendrix said.

Haley Holton, a junior pole vaulter, set a school record with a 10-foot vault last spring.

Coach Neil James said that Holton has an excellent chance to qualify for State.

Along with the strong group of young talent, there are many seniors poised for great seasons.

This year’s squad has seven members graduating this spring.

In all, six girls earned medals at last year’s State competition. Seniors Michelle Lay and Hilary Conrad, along with two graduated seniors won a medal for their 4x200m relay.

“The athletes are really working hard and I am looking for a great season,” Coach James said.

Strikers aim high

BY JOHN DAVIS sports@othsprowler.com After finishing with a winning record for only the third time since 2000, the girls’ soccer team is looking to improve upon last year’s success.

Last season, the girls ended the year with a 11-10 record, but lost in the first round of the playoffs. The girls also finished 1-5 in conference play, a mark that they hope to improve.

“As a team, we have set high standards for ourselves. We are confident in our abilities...

Together, we would all love to win the conference title,” junior goalkeeper Alaina Bauer said.

Coach Craig Dippel also shares Bauer’s confidence.

“I think we can get out of our regional and make a good showing in sectionals...I believe we’re capable of [going to State],” Coach Dippel said.

“It will take a lot of hard work, but I feel the girls are up to the challenge,” Coach Dippel said.

On April 13, the girls will continue their tough Southwestern Conference schedule with a game against Collinsville.

On the boys’ side, things are not as clear-cut.

Last spring, the most talented group of sprinters in school history graduated.

2009 graduate Lamont Oakley placed at State in the 100m and ran on two school record relay teams, the 4x100m and the 4x200m relays.

Senior Deveon Hicks is the only returning member of that relay, as Josh Bennett and Victor McIntosh also graduated last spring.

Some of the team’s strongest events are covered by Coach Jon Burnett’s state-qualifying cross country team.

The throwing events are headed by two upperclassmen. Senior Justin Meyers will compete in the shot put, while junior Michael Hursey will handle the discus throw.

Senior Ronnie Spencer, a state qualifier in the triple jump last year, will look to top his 2009 performances.

Spencer is one of the few multi-event athletes for this year’s squad, as he also took third place in the high hurdles at last season’s Southwestern Conference meet.

“If Ronnie can continue to improve, he will have huge success this season,” Head Coach Ron Koch said.

Seniors Hicks and Demarco Baxtron return to provide some stability to the rebuilding sprint events.

Overall, the squad is confident in their abilities.

“I think we will [finish] in the top three in conference. A ton of people will qualify for State and we might be bringing home a top three overall finish in State,” Hicks said.

Baseball hopeful with new squad

After last year’s strong season that culminated with an appearance in the State Finals, the Panthers will look to replicate their success.

Seniors Nick Fleming and Michael Sullivan return as team captains.

“Both are state finals qualifiers, and will lead the team with their excellent work ethic, character and leadership,” Coach Ray Cordon said.

Senior Shane Watson and junior Jonathan Mielke have returned to the varsity squad, while senior Austin Riba, juniors Jordan Holmes and John McKeown and freshman Nick Mullen fight to fill the remaining positions.

The junior varsity started its season on March 16 at a double-dual match at Triad.

The varsity team hosted Alton on March 30 for their season opener.

Ms. Erin Thoman is the new assistant coach.

Also, Mr. Dennis Sullivan, the engineer for the City of O’Fallon, has signed on as a volunteer coach.

Together, Coach Thoman and Coach Sullivan will guide the junior varsity through their season while Coach Cordon handles the varsity duties.

“We go by the motto ‘you play like you practice,’ and the practices have been quite encouraging,” Coach Cordon said. “Overall, the competition in both the dual matches and tournaments looks quite strong for the varsity squad.”

As long as the team practices hard and plays like they practice, O’Fallon’s chances this season are promising.

“The Southwestern Conference is loaded with talent this year and the tournament competition is always super tough. Everyone will have to be at the top of their game,” Cordon said.

Volleyball focused, determined

ADAM HARREL On March 30, seniors Danny Schachner (11) and Michael Sasiela (12) go up for a block against Granite City.The Panthers defeated the Warriors in straight games to kick off their season.

BY ALEXIS HARDY sports@othsprowler.com In 2006, OTHS created its first boys’ volleyball team, and they have been tearing it up ever since.

Last season, the boys ended with a 23-6 record. On top of that, they were the O’Fallon Tourney champions, Regional champions, had a sectional victory, became sectional finalists and were undefeated in their conference.

Coach Tim Gagen has high expectations for this season after their records last season. Focus is his number one strategy for success.

“Everyone in the conference has another year under their belt, and we will have a big

bull’s-eye on our backs,” Coach Gagen said.

Seniors to lead and start this year are Alex Glenn, Danny Schachner, Mark Kurtz, Drake Krueger and Michael Sasiela. Coach Gagen says each of these guys exemplify, “very positive senior leadership.”

“The team is looking solid. We’ve got some great talent, so we’re looking forward to a good season again,” Krueger said.

Other players that will be seeing game time are juniors Nick Wojital, Adam Heyden and Jon Dawson.

“I honestly think the guys have improved since last year. I think we all expect to do better than last year, and we did great previously,” Krueger said.

BY TESSA DOCKINS sports@othsprowler.com

Lacrosse returns for third season

Trying to improve last year’s record, the baseball team believes they have a chance even after losing several starters.

“We could get as far as we did last year, even if we lost good players from last year, because we have a solid team this year that works good together,” senior Rob Berger said.

In their first tournament of the year, the boys finished with a 1-2 record. They played traditionally strong teams such as St. George, Tip/Rose and Christian Brothers.

“Our defense is good this season, and we are still working to make it better. We are working on our offense to try and make it as good as our defense,” senior Cal Stierwalt said.

On March 30, they defeated the Belleville East Lancers at Blazier Field 6-3.

“This season we have a good team that I think works together very well. I am looking forward to see how far we can go,” Coach Jason Portz said.

As of press time, the boys record stood at 6-4.

BY ELLIE KANASKIE sports@othsprowler.com This spring marks the third year of the existence of lacrosse at OTHS, with both the boys’ and the girls’ varsity teams gearing up for winning seasons.

A mixture of old and fresh players made the cut for this year’s boys’ team. The new season promises to start off strong because of the mix, according to senior Josh Meidel.

“We have so many returning starters, including our whole starting attack and most of our starting defense. I’m also excited about the group of young players who are playing for their first year,” Meidel said.

Senior Josh Greene, attacker, believes this season will be a good one, as well.

“Our skills and team play have been improving at every practice and if we keep advancing at this rapid pace, I think we’ll make a promising run at the state championship,” said Greene.

After just a few weeks of practice, the boys

played one another in a classic blue and gold scrimmage.

This marked the beginning of a string of games for the team, many of which will be held at the OTHS fields.

In their first game, the boys lost 10-6 to traditional Missouri power, Desmet.

The boys’ counterparts, the girls’ lacrosse team, started their season with an away game at Marquette on April 1.

Many changes accompanied the start of the 2010 season, including Coach Doug Riddle stepping into the role of head coach.

By implementing a new field set up, a new starting lineup and new plays, Coach Riddle hopes that this will be the start of a winning season.

“My goals are just to improve on the last two years, to build on the foundation that we started and to travel more,” Coach Riddle said.

Whatever is in store for the lacrosse teams this season, it can be counted on that these players will give their all to achieve success for the program.

15

SPORTS

APRIL 9, 2010

Spring Athlete Profiles Josh Greene

Danny Schachner

Sarah Rautio

Jessie York

Senior Josh Greene has been playing lacrosse for four years. He started as an attack his freshman year at his school in Georgia, and now plays attack for the O'Fallon varsity lacrosse team.

He also participates in many lacrosse camps throughout the area such as the Xcelerate, Powell Brothers and Birmingham-Southern lacrosse camps.

He says his favorite part of being on the team has been all the great people he has met and how the team is like a family.

“They make the most boring drills fun and the hardest conditioning easy. We constantly lift each other up and provide moral support for each member of the team,” Greene said.

In the future, he plans on attending the Air Force Academy. He hopes to walk onto the Academy's lacrosse team, even though it will be a challenge since it is a Division I school.

Senior Danny Schachner is no stranger to the game of volleyball.

He began playing in the third grade for the O’Fallon Booster Club and continued from sixth to eighth grade at St. Clare School.

Currently, he plays on the varsity volleyball team as a setter. He also plays for the club team Southern Heat.

“The best part about our team is the intensity when the game starts. Everything is so fast paced, and our team keeps up the intensity well,” Schachner said.

“Also, volleyball is a team orientated sport because on every play half of the team touches the ball, so you have to be able to communicate on many levels with the team,” Schachner said.

Schachner most likely will go to SIU Edwardsville for mechanical engineering. So far, he has not received any scholarships for volleyball.

Senior Sarah Rautio has been running track for five years now. She decided to give track a try after she ran cross country in the eighth grade.

Over the past four years she has run the 400-, 800- and 200-meter runs and also has participated on the 4x400 and 4x800 relay team.

Outside of these main events are the triple jump and long jump. These two events are also her favorites. In addition, she was a medalist at State last year.

She plans on attending Neosha College in Kansas on a cross country and track scholarship.

She says her favorite part of the track season are all the meets at the end of the season such as Conference, Sectionals and State.

“The pressure is turned on, and I get so excited and ready to show off all the hard work I put into my season,” Rautio said.

Senior Jessie York is a captain for the O’Fallon varsity soccer team. She has been playing soccer for 11 years. Her dad got her interested in the game, and she has loved it ever since.

As a senior, she plays either center back or center mid. She also plays for the St. Louis Scott Gallagher Club during the fall. She has played for them for four years.

This fall, she will be attending Bellarmine University in Kentucky on a soccer scholarship.

However, she has also received a lot of financial aid for her academics.

As a captain, York really enjoys inspiring her teammates.

“I love my teammates, and I’m so glad they inspire me and push me to play and work my hardest. I want to help them be successful as much as possible,” York said.

Boys’ Lacrosse

Boys’ Volleyball

Girls’ Track

Ultimate frisbee starts

BY ELLIE KANASKIE sports@othsprowler.com With 14 unprotected players chasing and throwing a 175 gram flying disk down a field for two hours, ultimate frisbee is called “ultimate” for a reason.

Ultimate frisbee, a sport in which players advance a frisbee down a field to the endzones by passing, has grown in popularity over the years, especially at OTHS. Ranging from competitive leagues all over the nation and collegiate clubs to pickup games in the park, ultimate can be played at all levels and intensities.

Originally started by Spanish teacher Mr. Norman Henry, the club was established to give non-varsity athletes and kids on the sidelines a chance to get involved in a team sport.

Mr. Henry describes it as “the love-child of basketball, soccer and football.”

Although the basic throws include the forehand, backhand and hammer, players can learn a large library of different passes, from the thumbchuck to the grip pass.

Boys’ Volleyball

Date Thursday April 15 Thursday April 22 Monday April 26 Tuesday April 27

Opponent East St. Louis Bayless Althoff Edwardsville

Time 4:30 p.m.

4:00 p.m.

5:00 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

Boys’ Tennis Date Tuesday April 20 Wednesday April 28

Opponent Belleville East Centralia

Time 4:00 p.m.

4:00 p.m.

Boys’ Lacrosse

Date Wednesday April 14 Saturday April 24

Opponent Kirkwood

St. Rita

Time 6:45 p.m.

10:30 a.m.

Boys’ Baseball

Date Tuesday April 13 Thursday April 15 Friday April 16 Tuesday April 27

Opponent Alton Collinsville Highland Granite City

Time 4:15 p.m.

4:15 p.m.

7:00 p.m.

4:15 p.m.

PROFILES BY JANELLE PFEIFER

2010 College Signings Name Seth Wild Melissa Mecagni De’Ron Flood Chevaughn Lawrence Quan Guion David McDaniel Dionte Sullivan Conor Knox Sean Blumberg Jessie York Jessi Holland Stephen Dean Emma Goldschmidt Jenny Stroot Mark Kurtz Michael Sasiela Keith Surber

Senior Chris Hoots, a four year veteran of the game, plays on one of the top teams from last year, Atroxity.

Although he got involved because he loves frisbee and hanging out with his friends, Hoots thinks the intensity of the game is still there.

“The level of competitiveness is insane, and since all the teams go to O’Fallon, the trash talk literally never stops,” Hoots said.

While said “trash talk” exists in almost every sport, ultimate employs a concept called “spirit of the game.” Because there are no referees, players are entrusted to call their own fouls and keep the playing clean, always conducting themselves with good spirit.

The club at OTHS plays shortened games, whittling the time down from two hours to only 45 minutes. This is done in the interest of every team getting an equal chance to play because so many kids have gotten involved, including those who have never been involved in sports.

“Even though I’m not the greatest at it, it is a lot of fun,” freshman Tiffani McCormick said.

“I’m looking forward to meeting a lot of people and having fun.”

April Home Sports Events

Girls’ Soccer

University Mineral Area Marian Purdue West Point Lincoln Western Illinois Norfolk State SWIC Bellarmine Bellarmine Austin Peay South Dakota St. Louis McKendree Fontbonne Missouri Baptist Nebraska

Sport Baseball Bowling Football Football Football Football Football Soccer Soccer Soccer Softball Swimming Volleyball Volleyball Volleyball Volleyball Wrestling

Girls’ Lacrosse Date Tuesday April 13 Thursday April 15 Tuesday April 20 Thursday April 22 Tuesday April 27 Thursday April 29

Opponent Rockwood Summit Visitation Academy Parkway North Hazelwood Central Whitfield Parkway Central

Time 4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

Girls’ Soccer

Date Saturday April 10 Tuesday April 13 Thursday April 15 Tuesday April 20

Opponent Chatham-Glenwood Collinsville Belleville East Mt.Vernon

Time 11:30 a.m.

5:00 p.m.

5:00 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

Girls’ Softball

Date Friday April 9 Tuesday April 20 Thursday April 29

Opponent Mascoutah East St. Louis/Oak Forest Belleville East

Time 4:15 p.m.

4:15 p.m.

4:15 p.m.

Girls’ Track

Date Monday April 12 Friday April 16

Opponent Mt.Vernon/Mascoutah OTHS Invitational

Time 4:00 p.m.

4:00 p.m.

16

PHOTOS

APRIL 9, 2010

JAKE HAMILTON Senior Rachel Chapman and junior Beth Lewis show their suffering during “The Beggars.” Chapman and Lewis both had several solos throughout the show and played many different characters.

JAKE HAMILTON Senior Kenny Maness leads the other students in a rally toward revolution in “The People’s Song.” Maness played Enjolras in his first musical at OTHS.

Cast, crew bring ‘Les Mis’ to stage

BY KATY MANESS features@othsprowler.com Much talent was displayed at this year’s spring musical performance of “Les Miserables.”

Fifty high school students and 20 junior high students made up the cast.

Main characters Jean Valjean, Javert, Eponine, Fantine, Cossette, Monsieur Theanadier, Madame Theanadier, Marius and Enjolras were played by senior Joseph Young, junior Nick Rivera, seniors Nicole Lambert, Chelsea Cariker, Amanda Floyd, Drake Krueger, Janelle Pfeifer, freshman Nate Bittner and senior Kenny Maness, respectively.

The musical takes place in the 1700s after the French Revolution and tells the story of Jean Valjean and his quest to become a better man.

It was an emotional show. Looking into the audience after every solo, one could see grown men wiping their tears.

Besides singers and actors, there was a director, two assistant directors, 20-person technical crew, 23-person pit orchestra crew, one pit orchestra conductor, set movers and, of course, supportive parents.

The director, Dr. Beth Shackelford, held the

cast together with constructive criticism and individual help when needed.

“The combination of the entire team is what makes the show. This year’s show is really special to us because it is our first one in the new auditorium,” Dr. Shackelford said.

The new Milburn auditorium also helped to make the musical a success.

“Finally, we have the staging and technical capabilities to showcase all of the talent that has always been in the halls of OTHS. I can’t express how proud I am of this cast and crew, it is the largest group I have ever worked with, and their commitment to our team is second to none,” Dr. Shackelford said.

The assistant directors, sophomores Allie Smith and Julia Jones, were in charge of costume costs, props, costume measurements and many more behind-the-scenes tasks.

“Seeing all the pieces finally fit together is a good feeling, and having it run smoothly is so rewarding, especially this year with all the talented seniors leaving. The seniors this year have really stepped up their game. It’s good seeing people put in so much effort and it all coming together,” Smith said.

The sound crew was in charge of the

JAKE HAMILTON Javert, played by junior Nick Rivera, tells about his life goal to capture Valjean in “Stars.” This was Rivera’s third musical at OTHS.

JAKE HAMILTON Seniors Drake Krueger and Janelle Pfeifer, who played Monsieur and Madame Thenardier, tell about their life of crime in order to become rich.

KATY MANESS Most of the characters were killed at the final battle of the barricade. The barricade was constructed by the cast and crew of the show.

technical aspects of the show, which meant knowing whose microphone is on at what time and what sound effects to play.

The light crew was in charge of all the lighting and fog machines, which included kowing where to place the machines, what spotlights to put where and which certain colors to put on.

Set movers were the people who move the set pieces and props in-between scenes and blackouts.

“Working backstage is brutal because if anyone gets in the way, it doesn’t work out. It is fun though, and when we get it right, the show looks awesome,” sophomore Katie Missey said.

In additon, there was an entire ochestra pit producing the music. “[Being a part of the pit] is definitely a new experience. Usually I'm up there performing, but this time I'm accompanying on piano. It's hard, but fun,” senior Amber Shepherd said.

The pit was directed by Mrs. Melissa Gustafson-Hinds. She is a band and assistant choir director at OTHS. Overall, many different talents were showcased at this year's performance of “Les Miserables.”

JAKE HAMILTON Freshman Meadow Nguy attempts to comfort Chelsea Cariker during “Lovely Ladies.” “I always play the older characters, so it made sense that Fantine was the mom,” Cariker said.

JAKE HAMILTON Fantine, Jean Valjean and Eponine, played by seniors Chelsea Cariker, Joseph Young and Nicole Lambert respectively, sing one last time during “The Epilogue” about how an honest life can have its rewards. These seniors have been involved with the musical since their freshman year.

KATY MANESS Marius, played by freshman Nate Bittner, proclaims his love for Cossette, played by senior Amanda Floyd. “Being a freshman and having a main part is stressful... but I wouldn’t trade it for the world,” Bittner said.