U-TIMES U. City High School 7401 Balson Ave University City, MO 63130
U-Times May. 2019 Volume 28, Issue 4
NEWSMAGAZINE
SENIOR ISSUE
Long journey to college starts here By Ian Feld
Staff Writer Senioritis usually begins to kick in around the beginning of second semester as the calendar turns and the next graduating class starts to count down the days until they’re out of high school. For many, the next step is college. Throughout their final year, students spend countless hours applying to schools and for scholarships in hopes that they’ll get into the school they want or get the financial aid they need. The only issue with this is that the amount of work required for applications can be overly stressful for seniors. “It takes a long time,” Cabria Shelton, senior, said of the process. “It’s definitely very demanding.” Shelton applied to 15 schools and has been accepted into at least 10 of them, including her top choice, Rhodes College. Part of the reason she found the process so difficult was that it had to be completed around the school work she already had on her plate. “I had a lot of long nights and early mornings,” Shelton said. “It’s hard to balance school work and applying to college.” Leah Zukosky, senior, filled out applications for 13 different private liberal arts colleges. She, like Shelton, found the most challenging part of applying was balancing it with the responsibilities of school. “I think that entire time of year is really difficult in general,” Zukosky said. “If you’re taking a lot of AP classes you have to do that work on top of applications.”
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• College decisions • Senior shout-outs
Simiarly, Folly Dotou, senior, found that the requirements for applying to college were stressful and time consuming. Dotou, who will be attending Rockhurst University in the fall, applied to six schools, including Calvin University, Missouri S & T and Westminster College, and was accepted into five of them. “I probably could have applied to more,” Dotou said. “But the process is exhausting, especially when you start applying for scholarships.” Many times the requirements for scholarships are even more demanding than the college applications. Most require essays or community service or other timeconsuming activities. For instance, Andrew Immer, senior, applied to three colleges and will attend Kansas University. Immer also applied for seven scholarships and had to write essays on topics ranging from his reasons for attending the school to describing his goals. “I thought the essays required a lot of time and effort to be put in,” Immer said. “It’s your first impression to the school; it can make or break your application.” The competition between schoolwork and applying can make the process difficult to approach alone, especially since so much can rest on one essay. Madeleine Gibson, college advisor, is tasked with helping guide seniors through the whole ordeal, but with well over 100 seniors, the extent of her assistance can be limited. “I meet with every senior at least once during each semester, but I won’t walk anyone through the process
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• Senior scholar athletes
Seniors Dominic Torno, Kristina Eason, Rowan Hoel, Cheyenne Poland, I’Aiyana Redden, Gage McGinnis and Angela Smith show pride by repping their college choices. “We all wore our college clothes and were showing them off,” said McGinnis. “I’m really excited for a new experience and I’m looking forward to meeting new people in college.”
unless they explicitly ask for it,” Gibson said. “I try to help equip people to fill out their applications, not do it for them.” Applying to colleges is an undoubtedly stressful process, but the additional factors of schoolwork and in
some cases, little help, makes it especially daunting. One solution would be to have time during the school year where seniors could take a break from their work and focus on this important aspect of moving on from high school. This could make applying to college more
accessible for more students who might normally be intimidated by it. “It would only be a couple days to a week,” Dotou said. “That alone could improve the process and make it less stressful for us.”
IN THIS ISSUE
6-7
• Prom
8-9
• Spring sports
10-11
• Meet the staff
• High school reflections
May 2019
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college decisions
Decisions, decisions, decisions
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2
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Where to?
College, St. Louis, MO
ALABAMA
Kayla Austin- Alabama A & M University, Huntsville, AL
De’Leon Fitzgerald- St. Louis Community College, St. Louis, MO
ARKANSAS
Kaya Blount- University of Arkansas Little Rock, Arkansas
CALIFORNIA
Biyedji Frango- University of Central Missouri, Warrensburg, MO Destiny Galvin- Northwest Missouri State University, Maryville, MO
Kristina Eason- American Musical and Dramatic Academy, Los Angeles, CA
Shianne Garner- St. Louis Community College, St. Louis, MO
Rowan Hoel- Pitzer College, Claremont, CA
Terrico Garrett- Southeast Missouri State University, Cape Girardeau, MO
COLORADO
Malike Harris- Southeast Missouri State University, Cape Girardeau, MO
Brooks Carrico, University of Denver, Denver, CO
ILLINOIS
Brittany Hodge- St. Louis Community College, St. Louis, MO
Nicole Holahan- Columbia College, Chicago, IL
Doris Jefferson- St. Louis Community College, St. Louis, MO
KANSAS
Alona Jenkins- Southeast Missouri State University, Cape Girardeau, MO
Julian Albright- University of Kansas, Lawrence, KS Andrew Immer- University of Kansas, Lawrence, KS
MAINE
Marnae King- Lincoln University, Jefferson City, MO Antonio Leggette- St. Louis Community College, St. Louis, MO
Leah Zukosky- Bates College, Lewiston, ME
Kaleb Loggins- St. Louis Community College, St. Louis, MO
MISSOURI
Jabria Madison- St. Louis Community College, St. Louis, MO
Jaquan Bell- St. Louis Community College, St. Louis, MO Jarrod Brandt- St. Louis Community College, St. Louis, MO Alajae Braziel- St. Louis Community College, St. Louis, MO William Crow- St. Louis Community
2018-2019 U-Times Staff Co-Editor: Linsey Sparks Co-Editor: Julian Albright Sports Editor: Eliot Fuller Web Editor: Eliot Fuller Staff Writers/Photographers: Jaden Brooks Ian Feld Grace Klein Emma McMahon Charya Young Elijah Ballard Adviser: Mrs. Mary Williams
Gage McGinnis- University of Missouri, Columbia, MO Terrance Merriweather- St. Louis Community College, St. Louis, MO Jade Morrow- Missouri Western State University, St. Joseph, MO
Philosophy
The newspaper’s primary obligation is to inform its readers about events in the school and community and of the issues of national or international importance which directly or indirectly affect the school population. The newspaper, while serving as a training ground for future journalists as part of the school curriculum, recognizes all rights and responsibilities under the First Amendment. While establishing U-Times as a public forum, student editors will apply
Joseph Mosby, Missouri Valley College, Marshall, MO
Antwan Wesley- Southeast Missouri State University, Cape Girardeau, MO
Lamarq Murphy- Lincoln University, Jefferson City, MO
Chantel Young- St. Louis Community College, St. Louis, MO
Fatimah Olushola- St. Louis Community College, St. Louis, MO
Elisia Young- St. Louis Community College, St. Louis, MO
Koy Range- University of Missouri, Columbia, MO I’Aiyana Redden- University of Missouri, Columbia, MO
MINNESOTA
Phoebe Thoroughman- Macalester College, St. Paul, MN
NEW YORK
Rebecca Rico- University of Missouri, Columbia, MO
Peter Zhang, United States Military Academy, West Point, NY
De’Ara Robinson- Southeast Missouri State University, Cape Girardeau, MO
TENNESSEE
Knokeia Shears- Southeast Missouri State University, Cape Girardeau, MO Hailey Smith- St. Louis Community College, St. Louis, MO
India Reedus- Fisk University, Nashville, TN
WASHINGTON, DC
Elijah Ballard- American University, Washington, DC
Linsey Sparks- University of Missouri, Columbia, MO
MILITARY
Courtney Taylor- St. Louis Community College, St. Louis, MO
Jacques Garrett- Air Force
Markell Tompkins- St. Louis Community College, St Louis, MO Dominic Torno- University of Missouri, Columbia, MO Diamante’ Tucker- St. Louis Community College, St. Louis, MO Sierra Tyler- University of Missouri, Columbia, MO Daneile Walker- Harris-Stowe State University, St. Louis, MO
Dominic Bryant- Navy
Tyree Shaw- Army Robert Wilson- Marines
TRADE SCHOOL
Andrew Cushshon- Tulsa Welding School, Tulsa, OK Jeffrey Hodge- EMT Academy (Firefighter) Trey Isaac- Barber School Atoria Howard- Metropolitan Police Academy, St. Louis, MO
Harmyne Ward- St. Louis Community College, St. Louis, MO
professional standards and ethics for decision-making as they take on the responsibility for content and production of the newspaper. Inasmuch as the student staff encourages constructive criticism of any part of the newspaper, authority for content rests in the hands of the student members of the newspaper staff. Students will not publish material considered to be legally unprotected speech, or libel, obscenity, material disruption of the educational process, copyright infringement, or unwarranted invasion of privacy.
Policies
Opinions expressed on the editorial page do not reflect the viewpoints of the school administration. All editorials (unsigned) represent a majority opinion of the Editorial Board. Signed editorials, columns, editorial cartoons, and reviews reflect the views of the author and not necessarily those of the U-Times Editorial Board. The U-Times reserves the right to reject, edit, or shorten letters. Submit letters to Mrs. Mary Williams in Room L-306, or to any U-Times staff
member, or to marywilliams@ ucityschools.org.
Contact Us
We are located in Room L 306 at University City High School, 7401 Balson Ave., University City, MO 63130. Our email address is marywilliams@ucityschools.org. Tweet us or follow us on Instagram @utimesonline.
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senior SHOUT-OUTS We’re so proud of the human that you are. Thank you for being an amazing daughter and a great big sister. Love - Dad, Mom & Regan
So proud of my Nunu. Keep up the legacy. Congratulations Ben! You have filled our lives with love, laughter and music. We are so proud of you. Love, Mom & Dad and Aiden
Congrats, Nicole! We’re looking forward to your next act. Love - Mom, Dad, Adam & AJ
Congratulations Alona! We are so proud of you, and Oh, the Places You’ll Go! Love You...Mom, Dad, Alonzo, and Family
Congratulations Hailey! We love you and are extremely proud of you and the woman you are blossoming into. Love Mom, Dad, and A.J.
Dear Rebecca, You are great. From Rebecca
advertising Thank you, University City
In 2012, UCHS took a chance on a 22-year old kid out of college. I remember the joy I had that summer afternoon and the memories I have developed since that sticky St. Louis summer day. I will be forever grateful for my time at University City and the relationships I built with students and staff. To my colleagues, especially the Social Studies department, you helped me grow as a teacher and a person and I will forever value the family atmosphere we shared as a staff. To the students, both past and present, you are the reason I come to work every day and I hope you each gained something impactful from my time at UCHS. It is with the heaviest heart that I say goodbye but the utmost pride in having had the pleasure of teaching, coaching, and working with y’all over the past 7 years. Through ups & downs it was your energy and love that kept me going and it is that same energy and love that will stick with me like honey as I embark on the next stage of my journey. Thank you again for all your love and support over the years. I wish nothing but a lifetime of success and happiness for each of you inside and outside of UCHS. The relationship ends when you want it to end, so I hope to keep in touch with many of you as you progress on your life journeys. Much love, Mr. Horn
Best of luck to our U-Times senior co-editors! Julian Albright and Linsey Sparks
May 2019
May 2019
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scholar athletes
senior Sports: Water Polo, Swimming College: University of AlabamaHuntsville Quote: “The people here pushed me to be my best.”
Cooper Deitzler
Elijah Ballard
Summer reading at u City Library Teens and kids age 17 and younger can
sign up to read and win prizes at University City Public Library all summer long. We’ll also have lots of fun events, including gaming nights and robotics events. Feel like challenging yourself this summer? Join the Adult Summer Reading program to read a couple of American classics: The Bluest Eye by Toni Morrison and Moby Dick by Herman Melville. Pick up copies of both books Wednesday, May 29 at 5:30 p.m. and join in for discussions, performances, and more all summer long.
The U City Library needs teen volunteers to help out with the youth summer reading program. All dedicated and energetic teens are invited to participate; applications are available at the Youth Services desk. Volunteers must attend a May training session. For more information, including training dates, call the Youth Services department at 314-727-3150.
Sports: Golf, Soccer College: American University Quote: “My stroke has improved over the years. State 2019.”
Sierra Tyler
Peter Zhang Sports: Wrestling, Soccer, Tennis, Cross Country College: U.S. Military Academy Quote: “Everyone should do a sport.”
Sports: Tennis College: University of Missouri Quote: “Playing tennis allowed me to experience a lot of new things, including the fun that comes with being doubles partners with a sarcastic foreign exchange student.” Sports: Baseball College: University of Missouri Quote: “I better not find a [sunflower] seed in anyone’s pants or else it’ll be cross country practice tomorrow.” -Coach Bass
Thomas Looby
REQUIREMENTS
• You need to have completed 6th grade
• You need to attend a 2-hour training session • You need to read and report on 12 hours of reading • You need to be available to work for at least 4 weeks
@UCPL_Librarians www.facebook.com/UCityLibrary @UCityLibrary
www.ucitylibrary.org • 314-727-3150
Cabria Shelton Sports: Tennis College: Rhodes College Quote: “When I’m on the court I feel like Serena Williams and it shows.”
Kaya Blount Sports: Soccer College: University of Arkansas-Little Rock Quote: “Playing sports at U. City taught me responsibility and time management. Most importantly it taught me the importance of having understanding and well-rounded teammates.”
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scholar athletes
May 2019
scholar athletes Terrico Garrett
Rebecca Rico Sports: Tennis College: University of Missouri Quote: “Tennis got me through first semester.”
Sports: Track and Field, Cross Country College: Southeast Missouri State University Quote: “I love working my hardest, so the more you train the better you’ll be.”
Sports: Golden Girls College: Tennessee State University Quote: “Dance was one of the best things that ever happened to me. Dance was me.”
Julian Albright
Logan Black
Rowan Hoel Sports: Volleyball College: Pitzer College Quote: “I loved mentoring younger teammates.”
I’Aiyanna Redden
Sports: Cross Country College: University of Kansas Quote: “Someone once told me life was a marathon not a sprint, but I sprint marathons.”
Sports: Soccer, Tennis College: University of Missouri-Columbia Quote: “Being part of a team makes your performance better.”
Leah Zukosky
Brooks Carrico Sports: Golf College: University of Denver Quote: “I enjoyed playing on the golf team each year. It taught me what it means to put in effort and play towards the achievement of a team.”
Sports: Tennis College: Bates College Quote: “Tennis forced me to step up which made me a better leader.”
Gage McGinnis Sports: Soccer College: University of Missouri Quote: “In my experience the sports at UCHS form really nice and open groups of friends.”
Ben Shostak Sports: Soccer, Golf College: University of Missouri Quote: “Drive for show, putt for dough.”
City Lights Sh
Taking to the dance floor, Phoebe Thoroughman rocks out with Zye Smith, seniors. “I really enjoyed being all together with my friends,” said Thoroughman. “It was a great way to say goodbye to people after these four years we’ve spent together.”
Seniors Joshua Oliver and Antonio Leggette pause for a moment after they arrive at prom to look at Oliver’s phone. He went with Leggette and his girlfriend. “I had fun sharing the experience with my friends,” Oliver said. His only regret was that he did not get enough votes to win prom king.
Whipping out her phone, De’Ara Robinson, senior, celebrates the p Admiring each others outfits, Cheyenne Poland, senior, and Robinson. “I was so happy for him. I was really just recording the m her friend take a step back to get a better look. “We hadn’t seen each other in a while,” said Poland. “He looked amazing and was giving me great energy. We were hyping each other up, it was nice.”
A pr
By El Staff
From MSgt. Stewart to DJSTEW.net Although he’s well known around the school, many students are unaware of the alter ego that MSgt. Dar’rel Stewart, ROTC teacher, brought out on prom night. As attendees began to file into Windows on Washington, Stewart was already there, setting up his equipment and preparing to DJ the event. It was not the first time Stewart had DJ’ed a U. City event. He’s worked homecoming, prom and Young Men’s Night Out in the past. A retired serviceman, Stewart learned to DJ from a friend he met on his first deployment in Germany. After years of practice, the hobby has become a big part of his life outside of teaching. “I love managing the parties at U. City,” Stewart said. “It’s like I take on a different persona when I DJ.”
Before sitting down, Courtney Taylor and Joseph Mosby, seniors, grab a drink as they enter prom. “It was very romantic,” Taylor said. “I really liked the theme idea and how they made it look.”
Cooper Dietzler, senior and Elisa Cavaliere, junior, take a moment for a slow dance. Cavaliere, an exchange student from Italy, got the chance to experience an authentic American prom. “It was fun and everything, but it was just a dance,” Cavaliere said.
Prom was held at Windows on Washington downtown from 7-10:30 pm. Students enjoyed appetizers, chicken alfredo, spaghetti, salad, garlic bread, desserts and Ted Drewes frozen custard. “I like the desserts best,” Nacim Hassoun, junior, said.
At in for a Washi from t much camar each o songs by Blo Ma Washi school “Th Washi floor.” Tyr prom b “I e up, an each o Jon night, “Th being experi For Nicole at prom exceed “I e
hine on Prom
prom king winner announcement alongside Logan Black, senior. “I knew Elijah [Ballard, senior] was going to win,” said moment.” PHOTOS BY IAN FELD AND ELIOT FULLER
Prom King & Queen
Elijah Ballard and Logan Black
After parties top off rom experience
liot Fuller and Ian Feld Writers
approximately 7 pm, students began to shuffle a “City Lights” themed prom at Windows on ington. They were greeted with lights strung the ceiling, elegant decorations, a DJ and more. There was a feeling of celebration and raderie in the air as students rushed to greet other, take selfies and dance with friends. With like “Old Town Road” by Lil Nas X and “Shoot” ocBoy JB, the dance floor was always packed. any promgoers, such as senior Denise ington, enjoyed the last prom of their high l experience. he best part was definitely the dancing,” ington said. “We all bonded on the dance ” reese Jones, senior, liked the atmosphere that brought. enjoyed the vibe, a lot of people were turned nd there were a lot of people interacting with other and complementing each other.” nes was proud of the way everyone handled the acknowledging their etiquette. hings were well organized, and people were very mature,” he said. “It’s a once in a lifetime ience.” r other students, it was their first time at prom. e Kellogg, junior, was one of the first to arrive m, and found that her expectations were ded. expected to just go and eat and dance a bit with
friends,” she said. “But there was way more dancing than I expected.” Kellogg went with her friend Annie Rhoades, junior. Rhoades felt the pressure of prom, but thought it was worth the time, energy and effort. “At least once people should go all out, because it’s really fun,” Rhoades said. “And even if you don’t, it can still be fun.” As the night continued, the music stopped, as it was time to announce the senior prom king and queen. For the first time, there was no junior court. At 9:30 pm, Elijah Ballard and Logan Black took home the royal crowns, capping off an eventful night. Following the much-anticipated prom court announcement, the room began to clear out as students made for the exit, anxious to continue the night out with friends. Whether it was going to an after party, eating at a restaurant or simply hanging out at someone’s house, nearly everyone had plans. Cabria Shelton, senior, had the most fun once prom was actually over. “[Prom] was cool, but the after party was better,” Shelton said. Once prom ended, she headed to the Renaissance Hotel with around 15 friends. “Everyone was more carefree and relaxed because they didn’t have their fancy clothes on,” Shelton said. Whether it was an after party or the actual dance, prom night brought out the best of the senior class. “It ended up being a really cool night,” Jones said. “My class made me proud.”
2019 YEARBOOKS STILL AVAILABLE IN ROOM L-306! JUST $45 FOR A LIFETIME OF MEMORIES.
As they dance to “Suge” by DaBaby, Marquess Pearson and Jeffrey Hodge, seniors, “felt each other’s energy and synchronized themselves,” according to Pearson. “We were just party dancing, hitting the ‘Woah’ and the ‘Nae Nae,’” said Pearson.
Shirley Long, paraprofessional, greets Hailey Smith, Atoria Howard and Diara Patrick, seniors at prom. “I was complimenting the girls on how beautiful they looked, but I really was astonished at how Hailey did a transformation,” Long said. “I think her transformation was wonderful, I have never seen her dress like that. She’s always so dressed down all the time and very trendy but she turned to like this a beautiful princess and she has a gorgeous body.”
May 2019
spring sports
SPRING SPORTS
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Boys track goes the distance
At the KU relays, Terrico Garrett, senior, ran the 400 and the 800. Athletes from seven different states, including high school and college students, go to this meet. “This is the first time I went to this meet because we haven’t had enough people who qualified,” Garrett said. Ayanna Allen, Netasanet Belachew, Merrick Hoel, Grace Klein and Yeimi Santos also competed.
While he sprints down the straight away, Xavier Blake, freshman, pulls in front of his competitors. Blake says that he has had a great first experience with the high school track team. “It’s been really cool getting to know the upperclassmen,” said Blake. “They really support us.”
Elevating himself, junior Dennis Tucker competes in the high jump at the meet at Lindenwood University. “I always prepare for the high jump before my meets,” Tucker said. “I think my practice paid off.”
By Eliot Fuller Sports Editor For the first time in nearly a decade, the boys track team has a distance coach to assist the 800, 4x800 and 3200 meter races. School psychologist Rachel Bromberg took the role after serving two seasons as a cross country coach. This, she explained, was the reason she decided to apply for the job. “Many of my cross country athletes run track and had goals they wanted to reach during track season,” Bromberg said. “I wanted to help them reach their goals and also hopefully convert a few more runners to cross country.” One of her cross country athletes, senior Terrico Garrett, runs the distance races in track. Garrett participates in the 400 and 800 meter races. “When I run my races, I feel alive,” Garrett said. “I just breathe and feel free.” Garrett has his eye on state, with a time of exactly two minutes for the
800, and 49 seconds for the 400. One of his teammates, junior Asa Worth, has noticed Garrett’s success on the track. “He sets the bar for everyone to try and match,” Worth said. “He’s one of the best athletes I’ve had the chance to run with.” Garrett contributes much of his success to his coaches, who have helped him all four years of high school. “My coaches have pushed me on a whole different level,” Garrett said. “Whenever I thought I couldn’t do something, they pushed me to go harder. [Bromberg] hasn’t been here for that long, but she’s worked so hard to see us get better every day.” As Garrett approaches the final few track races of his high school career, his coaches offer nothing but praise and support. “Terrico has grown as a runner, leader and individual,” Bromberg said. “He has a lot of potential, and I’m excited to see how the rest of the season plays out for him.”
PHOTOS BY GRACE KLEIN
Allen dashes to set records By Elijah Ballard Staff Writer Walking the halls of U. City, Ayanna Allen, senior, could appear to be just another student, going about her business. However, her status could soon be elevated. As a four-year member of the track team, Allen is on her way to breaking a U. City record in the 400 meter dash. “Allen has shown improvement all four years with the team and if she keeps working like she already does, she will pass the record,” Brian Byrd, coach, said. The 400-meter dash requires the runner to run one lap around the track as fast as they can, and at U. City, the current record is 57 seconds. Allen has already passed her previous personal record set last year. Junior year, she was running a 59.06. Now, she’s running a 58. India Reedus, senior and teammate of Allen, had a lot to say
about Allen’s improvements with the team. “She is the G.O.A.T. (greatest of all time),” Reedus said. “[Ayanna] has worked so hard all four years and she is very inspiring to me. I know she will pass the record because she grinds everyday and wants to go to college for track.” Coach Bromberg also chimed in on Allen’s dedication. “Just the other day, Ayanna opted to do some extra work with the distance runners in order to work on her endurance for her 400 race.” Allen lives a dedicated lifestyle and it’s clear her teammates and coaches see that. She follows a strict diet during track season to keep her body in shape for the meets. “I do not eat beef, which is my favorite food, to improve my health and I eat more fruit and drink more water to have a cleaner body,” said Allen.
As she makes her way down the home stretch of the 800 meter relay, Netsanet Belachew, junior, looks toward the finish line. “Since it’s a relay I felt more nervous and pressured because I know my teammates are depending on me,” said Belachew.
During the last lap of the girls 800 meter relay, Yeimi Matos sprints to the finish line to hand off the baton. “It was our first 4x8 relay and I was really nervous because I didn’t know how to run it, so I was just trying to finish and pass the baton to the next girl,” said Matos .
Heading towards the finish line during the 400 meter dash, Ayanna Allen, senior, is racing for much more than just a medal. Allen is on track and likely to beat the all-time U. City record for the 400. “I’ve been doing more endurance work with the distance team to build my endurance for the 400,” said Allen. PHOTOS BY GRACE KLEIN
Girls soccer off to best start in over a decade Aaliyah Brown, sophomore, controls the ball on the offensive end. Brown is ranked in the top 10 in three categories in the St. Louis area. “I couldn’t be ranked without my team and Mary-Kate’s assists,” said Brown.
Taking a free kick on the defensive end, Isabel Forester, freshman, clears the ball away from the Clayton offense. “Even though I’m smaller, I decided to play defense because I’m fast so if the ball gets past someone I can chase it down and clear it,” said Forester PHOTOS BY JULIAN ALBRIGHT
By Julian Albright Co-Editor Despite a lack of seniors, the girl’s soccer team has shown they have what it takes to win by starting off the season 3-0. The Lions have not started a season undefeated through three games since before 1999. Despite a few district trophies since then, the girls are proud to bring winning energy to the program. “We’re legends,” says Nicole Kellogg, junior captain. Col. Thomas Henson, head coach, is also proud of this team for their strong start. “It’s been nice,” said Henson. “It’s really good for the girls to gain confidence this early, and we’ve played well against some good competition.’’ Kellogg and Annie Rhoades, who both are juniors and cocaptains, feel honored that they are able to lead their team this winning season. “I used to be really quiet on the field, but I had some experience being field hockey captain and we’re excited to hopefully lead our team to victory,” Kellogg said. And the team has been winning. They are currently undefeated in their conference. “It’s been a long road since freshman year but I was happy
when we were chosen to be captains,” Rhoades said. Kellogg and Rhodes are not the only sources of leadership on this team, however. Aaliyah Brown, sophomore, is ranked number two in the St. Louis Metro area in scoring and goals scored. In addition, Henson thinks the experience seniors bring to a team is an important factor. “You need some seniors because when you get into a tough situation, they’ve been there before and know how to handle it, but we’ve had a lot of [underclassmen] step up this year,” Henson said. Kaya Blount does not have an issue with being one of only two seniors. “This is actually my favorite team I’ve played with so far,” said Blount. “On some teams the seniors are the leaders, but on this team we’re all equals and it’s great.” The team has a great positive energy about them which contributes to their record of 12-6 with only three games left in the regular season, according to Henson. “I love the team,” Rhoades said. “The girls who come out really want to win, they want to work together and we’re all helping each other on the field.”
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spring sports
May 2019
Baseball team devotes off season to training
By Jaden Brooks Staff Writer As Hazelwood East proves to be their best competition in conference, John Bass, coach, still believes the Lions will finish at the top of the Suburban Conference Blue Pool. “Our goal is to stay undefeated in conference for the third consecutive year. We are in a very strong district with Westminster, MICDS, Priory, John Burroughs and Clayton,” Bass said. “We want to make it to the district final and
give ourselves a chance to win it all.” The baseball team did their “spring training” during their off-season throughout the fall and winter. “Stuff we did during the off-season was on a different level from what we did last year,” said DeAngelo Davis, junior. “We really bumped up the intensity. We went to a 10-week training session with a trainer who trains top athletes in St. Louis.” Bass worked with the boys in the weight room 4-5 times a week.
During a team meeting after the Normandy home game on April 22, the team gathers for a meeting to discuss the positives and negatives. The Lions won in three innings with a score of 17-2. PHOTOS BY JADEN BROOKS
“Our student athletes put in a lot of work during the off season,” Bass said. “We worked out four days a week for one-and-a-half hours a day doing baseball specific training to get bigger, faster and stronger. We also went to Performance Zone in Chesterfield on Sundays and worked with Nate Yamitz. He developed a workout program that was helpful in getting us better.” Now that the season has arrived, the team has experienced ups and downs. A lot of games have been rained out and
the competitive level in the conference is frustrating because U. City wins many games by a big margin. “Spring is by far the busiest time of the year for me because of baseball, school and work and somehow I still manage to have a social life,” Thomas Looby, senior, said. “School always comes first though because we’re student-athletes not athletic-students. And I’m left with little to no downtime which is usually spent with friends.”
Hitting a single as the last play of the game to drive in two runs, Joshua Rhiney, sophomore, is satisfied with their win over Normandy. “It wasn’t the best game I played all season,” said Rhiney. “But I’m focusing on staying healthy and overcoming my injuries.”
Playing first base, Daniel Looby, freshman, positions himself to get a runner out. “We were playing a good game defensively,” Looby said. “We just stayed focused and worked our hardest.”
Seniors lead tennis team By Emma McMahon Staff Writer Starting the season off with an 8-1 win against Mehlville, the boys tennis team, which is made up almost entirely of upperclassmen, is excited to improve their team for a strong chance at districts this year. “This year I really want to focus on technique with the boys,” Faycal Ibnabdeljalil, coach, said. “I want all of my players to improve and do well this year, even the seniors, as we send them off.” The team appreciates how the coach is supporting their efforts. “We have to keep the momentum going and hopefully do well this year in districts,” Nate Martin, sophomore, said. The wealth of experience on the team provides an advantage. Consisting of five seniors, three juniors and one sophomore, it will take an influx of new talent next year to stay competitive. Two seniors on the team, Peter Zhang and Folly Dotou, look
to the positive side of being an upperclassman. “Being a senior on the tennis team is a lot of fun because you get to be like a boss to the underclassmen,” said Dotou. Encouraging the team to always do their best and put everything out on the courts, Zhang and Doutu enjoy being leader figures on their team. “Folly is rank one and I’m rank two--we like being doubles partners since we are close friends and we work really well together,” said Zhang. As the only sophomore on the team, Martin recognizes the presence of upperclassmen and is motivated to work harder because of them. “It’s cool because there are people I can learn from,” said Martin. “A lot of [upperclassmen] are better than me, so it gives me lots of competition to work with and against.”
As the only sophomore on the tennis team this year, Nate Martin, finds himself working twice as hard to make his mark on the team. “I enjoyed playing as the only underclassmen this year and being able to learn a lot from the seniors.”
Putting in work on the tennis courts, Folly Dotou, senior, hits a one-handed backhand swing during his match against Principia. “I made small mistakes but I improved at our next match and made sure to focus on my foot work and to always stay moving,” said Dotou. PHOTOS BY EMMA MCMAHON
Hitting a serve to his opponent, Junxian Zhang, junior, focuses on his overhead technique. “It was a very tough match against Principia, but still enjoyable because it pushed me to work my hardest,” said Zhang.
Golf team losing long-time coach
Getting ready to tee off at practice, Aidan Shostak, freshman, hopes to improve his swing and putting for next season. “We had a really good season,” Shostak said. “The coaches were amazing because they really connected with the players and shared their experiences with us.” PHOTO BY LINSEY SPARKS
By Linsey Sparks Co-Editor With half of the six-player team graduating this year and their coach, Gregory Byrne, retiring, Aidan Shostak, freshman, Timothy Gibson, sophomore and Kayden Faddis, junior, will be the only veteran golf players left to lead the team next year. The 2019-20 season will be the first time in 15 years that Byrne will not be coaching. Originally, this day was supposed to come a few years back. “I’m fulfilling a promise I made four years ago,” said Byrne. “I made Ben [Shostak, senior] a deal that I would coach until he graduated if he would work as hard as he could to get better. He has certainly lived up to his end, and now so have I.” Byrne has left quite an imprint on the team throughout his time coaching. The
players say they have learned things from him that is more than just golf. “He’s helped me have a better attitude about the game and focus on just one shot at a time, as opposed to thinking back two holes before on what you could’ve done, just focus on each shot,” said Ben Shostak. “I think that’s applicable throughout life.” As of right now, Elijah Ballard, senior, has qualified for sectionals. Byrne knows the team will continue to be great after he leaves but knows saying goodbye will be difficult. “On one hand, this group’s dynamics would be very hard to duplicate-making it a very special group,” said Byrne. “On the other, it’ll be like when I retired from the classroom in that I’ll miss the camaraderie with them. But, all coaches/teachers know when it’s time to leave. Mine is after this season.”
May 2019
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features
MEET THE STAFF
Emma McMahon
Jaden Brooks
Ian Feld
Eliot Fuller
Going into my first year ever on the newspaper staff brought me a lot of learning experiences I can use in and outside of the classroom. I wanted to join Newspaper to help me navigate my career options and graduation path after high school. Newspaper has helped improve my scheduling, writing and social skills. I enjoyed spending my first year of newspaper expanding my horizons and meeting amazing people.
This was my first year in Newspaper and it has been a great start of my future career. I covered different stories around the U. City area, including the Loop trolley, Early College Program and our baseball team. The greatest part of being in Newspaper is that I get to know different people and love hearing their stories. Next year, I will continue to produce great stories for our school.
This was my first year on the U-Times staff. I came in with very little knowledge about the processes of journalism and it all seemed a little daunting at first, but I was welcomed into the mix by an amazing staff of people and we were able to contribute to an awardwinning newspaper. It was an awesome experience and I’m grateful I get the chance to be part of such an incredible group of people.
My second year on the U-Times staff was full of learning, growth and new experiences. I enjoyed writing my first editorial, covering school sporting events and discussing various social issues in my work. Over the last several months, I have learned how to step into my role as Web Editor. This has prepared me for next year, when I will be co-editor of the U-Times. My Co-Editor Ian and I will strive to make the paper the best it can be.
Charya Young Being on the newspaper staff this year has taught me more teamwork and responsibility. I’ve learned so much from not only the class itself, but also my classmates. I think my writing skills have improved so much and I can’t wait to see what next year has in store.
Grace Klein
The staff wants to thank all of our readers and almost full-time staff member, senior Elijah Ballard. The U-Times won several state-level awards this year, including three top awards for writing by Julian Albright, Eliot Fuller and Elijah Ballard.
Editors’ Final Farewell These past four years of high school have flown by, and I’m happy to say that I spent three of my years working on the U-Times. My experience was somewhat unusual. As a sophomore, having the responsibility of Web Editor and Sports Editor put on my shoulders was a lot to handle at times. Two independent study classes didn’t make it any easier. Being separated and out of the loop sometimes made it difficult to know what needed to be done. All of that on top of my other coursework, sports and out of school commitments made working on the newspaper nothing less than a part time job. It is because of our commitment that we are able to release a well put together issue four times a year. We have stayed at school later than a lot of teachers and even came to work on a snow day. Nonetheless, myself and Linsey, my incredible co-editor, accomplished our goal, which was to release four issues of an award-winning newspaper over the course of the year. Thank you, of course, to our wonderful staffs from the past three years. To Eliot and Ian: Good luck. You’ll need it. -Julian
Julian Albright & Linsey Sparks
This was my first year on the newspaper staff and I can honestly say it has been an amazing experience. Despite all the extra hours spent interviewing people, taking sports photos or transcribing notes, I enjoyed every minute of it. Newspaper has allowed me to grow, not only as a writer and photographer, but as a person. I’m excited to see what next year has in store for the staff!
Everybody says high school is the best four years of your life. I don’t know if I fully agree with that statement, but I can say that being a part of the U-Times for the past three years has been one of the best and most memorable times of my schooling career. Becoming Co-Editor as a senior was such an honor for me and really meant a lot. Being able to spend time doing what I love with people I love hanging around with while being in this “position of power,” if you will, was just amazing to me. There was no better feeling this year than hearing members of the staff called up as winners at MIPA and feeling immense pride because I spend time with these kids in class and have seen them grow journalistically over this year that has completely flown by. Joining Newspaper helped me figure out that journalism is what I want to do after high school, and having such an amazing experience with such awesome people is something I’ll remember for the rest of my life. I have high expectations for the staff next year and know that Ian and Eliot are going to do a great job as editors. I love you guys and can’t wait to see what you do.
-Linsey
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May 2019
senior advice to underclassmen “SAVE. SAVE. SAVE. Start now. Also don’t slack, keep working like you’re still a sophomore.”
“Join the robotics team... PLEASE!”
Kennadie Mack
Will Crow
“Don’t give up halfway through the school year and stay out of drama. Nobody is more important than your education.”
“Be nice to your teachers. You will want their help later and they are here to help you.”
Leah Zukosky
Kaya Blount
I wish I had... “Taken things out of my backpack so my back didn’t hurt.” ~ Leah Zukosky
“More time for homework and projects.”~ Gerald Coleman “Scored better on my ACT and focused more on my grades in 9th and 10th grade.”~ Quincy Phillips “Went to all of my events as a senior, ex: football games, basketball games, one of my homecomings in the past.”~ Jaquan Bell
“More time to find what makes me different from the others.” ~ Shawn Hall “A little more time to pick what college I want to go to next year because time came too fast to pick.”~ Terrico Garrett
“Not played so much and controlled my anger.”~ Lamont Harvey
“Had more fun my first two years.”~ Elijah Ballard
“Prepared for senior year better mentally and financially.”~ Brianna Mitchell
“Stayed on top of everything.”~ Jamia Lee
“Branched out more.”~ Jordan Price
“Focused more during junior year.”~ Kaleb Loggins
“Done better in my classes.”~ Jordan Luckett
“Stayed focused starting my junior year.”~ Diara Patrick “Started thrift shopping earlier.”~ Rowan Hoel
“Participated in more school activities and did better in a few classes.”~ Zhonnay Smith
most memorable moment
“Experiencing the solar eclipse.”~ Diara Patrick
“When I had my first basketball game. I scored 10 points, 5 rebounds and we won.”~ Quincy Phillips
“My phone being thrown into the abyss.”~Dominic Torno
“Getting ISS (In School Suspension) for using the girls’ bathroom.”~ Elijah Ballard
“Freshmen year was lit!!! All my friends were here, we were a good group of kids coming.”~ Diamanté Tucker
Elijah Ballard
Camryn Rogers
Marquess Pearson
Anthony Mason
Alona Jenkins
Kaya Blount
Lovely Tibbs
Diamonique Dunn
William Crow
Autumn White
Jarrod Brandt
I’Aiyana Redden
1. Dominic Torno laughs nervously during a practice round of Certamen in Latin Club. 2. The Color Guard, including Jacques Garrett and other JROTC members, lead the 2015 homecoming parade. 3. Matthew Horn’s class re-enacts a World War I trench. 4. Kayla Harris and her classmates enjoy the outdoors on her tour around the school at freshman orientation. 5. Running down the field, Peter Kellogg attempts to turn the ball around. 6. At freshman orientation, Doris Jefferson, Brittany Hodge, Ka’Yon Brison and Andrew Immer listen to their teacher in World History class. 7. Focusing on her technique, Angela Smith works on an art project.
Terrico Garrett
Donya Washington
Ayanna Allen
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6
Kayla Merrill
Kamiya Davis
De’Leon Fitzgerald
Gerald Coleman
Andrew Cushshon
Rebecca Rico
5
Izaiah Collier
Kaleb Loggins
Nicole Holahan
4
Ka’Yon Brison
Tyreese Jones
12
Harmyne Ward
3
2
Andrew Immer
Diara Patrick
HIGH SCHOOL REWIND
features
Peter Zhang
1
Brittany Worthy
Thomas Looby
May 2019
NEWSMAGAZINE
PROM PERFECT
U-Times May 2019 Volume 28, Issue 4
PROM COVERAGE ON PAGES 6-7. PHOTO BY IAN FELD
After prom ended, Angela Smith, senior, and Neza Grilc and Nacim Hassoun, juniors, wait in the lobby.
U-TIMES U. City High School 7401 Balson Ave University City, MO 63130