SENIOR EDITION

VOLUME 39, ISSUE 8MAY.7.2010 O’FALLON TOWNSHIP HIGH SCHOOL, ILL.

OPINIONS P.2 NEWS P.4 FEATURES P.7 IN FOCUS P.8&9 SPORTS P.11 SENIOR LIST P.15 PHOTO PAGE P.16

P r o w l e rthe SENIOR EDITION

Go online to www.othsprowler.com for a prom slide show

and more web exclusives!

Most Changed: Drake Krueger & Krysten Recuero

Senior personalities, King, Queen honored at Prom 2010

How did it feel to be elected prom king and queen?

What was your favorite part of Prom?

Most Scholastic: Isaac Eickmeier & Hayley Motowski

Most likely to appear on SNL: Elliott Koehl & Molly Barton

Biggest Heart: Connor Alexander & Sara Harrier

Most Artistic: Justin Meyers & Julianne Reynolds

Most Musically Talented: Kenny Maness & Nicole Lambert

Biggest Flirt: Josh Greene & Jessi Holland

Most Athletic: Emma Goldschmidt & Ben Benton

Most Spirited: Elaine Quitos & Michael Sullivan

Best Smile: Anna Bradley & Kyle Burton

Most Well-Rounded: Jon Buie & Nicole Lambert

Seniors Drake Krueger and Emma Goldschmidt celebrate after being crowned prom king and queen. They were very thankful for the support from their fellow students. Prom was held Saturday, May 1, at the Hilton Regency.

ADAM HARREL

Prom King Drake Krueger: “The dancing and dinner was fun. The theme was entertaining.”

Prom Queen Emma Goldschmidt: “The funnel cakes and performers were fun.”

Prom King Drake Krueger: “It’s a wonderful feeling that students are supporting you. It wrapped up the year in a good way.”

Prom Queen Emma Goldschmidt: “It’s an honor for your classmates to get behind you and sup-port you this way. It’s a great way to end the year, and I appreciate it.”

INTERVIEWS BY: JENNIFER BAILEYPHOTOGRAPHERS: ADAM HARREL & DAVID FORD

What is the funniest thing you have ever done?Koehl: “One time, I was at the movies with my friends and decided to laugh as much as I could to annoy them because they kept looking back with disgust. When they tried to kick me out, I told them you couldn’t get mad at someone for laughing in a comedy.”

Barton: “I’ve never done anything funny. Ever.”

Why is it important to be spirited?Quitos: “I think that it’s important to be spirited be-cause it motivates teams to play and try harder. Also, it makes games more enjoyable and memorable.”

Sullivan: “It is important to show your schoolmates that you care about the school and its sports. I want our school spirit to better than anyone else’s, especially Edwardsville.”

What was your best game experience in high school?Goldschmidt: “The best game experience I have ever had was when the varsity volleyball team playedBelleville West in the Regional Championship.”

Benton: “Beating the top-seeded team, Lincoln-Way East, in the playoffs this year.”

What/who is the biggest influence in your work?Meyers: “My parents have been my biggest influences. They bought me my first sketch pad and enrolled me in art class at my school. I have been drawing ever since.”

Reynolds: “I enjoy combining geometric and organic elements into my work Architect Frank Lloyd Wright has a lot of influence in my work as well.”

Which was your hardest, yet most rewarding class?Eickmeier: “Physics with Mr. Curry. I’m going into engineering, so this class will help me a lot.”

Motowski: “Honors Calculus. After a lot of hard work, I finally reached a turning point. Now, the class is one my most enjoyable instead of my most hated.”

What is your favorite genre of music?Maness: “I can’t specifically say what kind of genre I favor... I just love music.”

Lambert: “I love music from classical to jazz to rock to rap.”

What has been your most valuable, helpful high school experience?

Buie: “My involvement in different clubs. You really learn a lot about yourself by associating with different people, from Robotics to football.”

Lambert: “Marching band has had the most impact on my life. The dedication, leadership skills and disci-pline that I have taken from it will be transferred into every goal I have.”

How have you changed since freshman year?Krueger: “I became more outgoing and social. I used to be extremely quiet.”

Recuero: “As a freshman, I didn’t know who I was. I slowly developed into the person I am now. I’m a carefree kind of person, and I know what I want in life and what I expect from others.”

Best Dressed: Chelsea Cariker & Geoff Dudley

What is your favorite style?Cariker: “I really tend to dress to my mood. I wake up and think, ‘What person should I dress today?’ Some days it’s classic, other days it’s urban, and sometimes even eclectic. I like to mix it up.”

Dudley: “I like to rock the basic fitted Levi jeans with a v-neck and a G-Shock watch.”

Do you think you’re a flirt?Holland: “Flirting is something I do on a regular basis. I consider it somewhat of a hobby. My secret weapon is my one-of-a-kind laugh. If that doesn’t work, a sim-ple wink and smile will do.”

Greene: “There is a definite possibility that I’m a flirt. I have many friends who are girls and enjoy convers-ing with them. I’ve also found that I am naturally a touchy person.”

What makes you smile most? Why?Bradley: “Hmm. I’d say all my crazy friends keep me happy, and thus smiley as well.”

Burton: “Seeing familiar faces, hearing good news, and thinking about my next move.”

What are you most passionate about?Alexander: “Among my beliefs, one is present in my heart and mind every day: the belief that the bonds people share with one another are nothing less than magic, a gift from God.”

Harrier: “Loving others and making everyone feel warm, welcome, and appreciated.”

LifeSavers during retreat weekend only?

The goals of the LifeSavers retreat are to break boundaries with fellow classmates, make new friends, and learn about making good

decisions and helping others. As a naive sophomore, I was selected for the

retreat and went on it thinking that after the weekend, I would have a ton of new friends after sharing such an emotional experience.

But while I opened up about my own experiences and shared my thoughts whenever I could, after the retreat, I still found myself struggling to find a table during lunchtime. 

I tried to surround myself with different people, but post retreat, I still had the same friends I had going in.  

“I honestly only met and stayed friends with three people from my retreat.   It’s a good program with a good cause, but it has its flaws,” senior Emma Chapman said.

The concept of LifeSavers is great, but those who apply and join the group need to focus on the goals of the organization.

“We do something that no other organization in the school tries to do, to make this a better, more accepting place,” club sponsor Mr. Norman Henry said.

Members are who represent the club, but LifeSavers is not represented properly by all of its members.

“It is the responsibility of the members to continue to adhere to the tenets of Lifesavers after returning from the retreat” Mr. Henry said.

“No one’s perfect, so what can you do? It’s upsetting, but honestly, we have no way of knowing [how people will behave after the retreat],” junior Alyssa Bockhold, a LifeSavers officer, said.

Current LifeSavers need to think back to the lessons of their retreats, and make sure they are living those lessons.

“A major problem why the effectiveness dwindles is because there are no meetings, but next year, our plan is to do a community service event and have a huge get-together each quarter,” LifeSavers officer Corey Walsh said.

Underclassmen, please go on the retreat, have fun and meet new people, but make sure to take what you learn and apply it to your lives.

Students Against Destructive Decisions (SADD) might be OTHS’s most popular club, but I have mixed feelings about the students who make up this club, which has a roster of nearly half the school as “members.”

I say “members” because at the last few meetings, I have been able to count the number of non-officer attendees on one hand, or on a good day, two hands.

I have friends who refuse to join SADD because of the hypocrisy within the club itself.

We have all heard stories around the hallway like “she got a ride home with him” or “he went to the party and did that.” When I hear these stories in the halls, it does not surprise me that some are disappointed in the members who claim to follow the morals of SADD.

SADD tries to prevent destructive decisions, but members of the clubs still make bad decisions, such as alcohol, sex, and smoking.

What can we as students do about this?“If you want to make a difference in the

world, you have to go out and make that difference. Any student who doesn’t join SADD, Lifesavers, or other clubs because there are some hypocritical members involved is not any better than the hypocrites. Get involved and lead by example, even if you are the only one doing the right thing,” said SADD sponsor Mrs. Brooke Lewis.

It seems that American morals and standards are going downhill in general, and it’s sad to see those attitudes making their way into the SADD group.

I am a SADD member, and I want to see the club continue to grow and improve. Please, join SADD and help your peers. Just do not join if you do not believe in and are not willing to uphold the morals that SADD preaches.

This year’s Mock DUI was filmed and compiled into a 45-minute video that may possibly be used in future Drivers Education classes, all thanks to SADD. This is a good thing, as it may save some teens’ lives. Hopefully, SADD can continue its efforts to reach teens through this and other projects in the future.

In conclusion, there are always going to be flaws in any club. But as long as there are those who are dedicated and practice their beliefs, then those clubs are more likely to succeed.  

Hopefully, in future years, more members will make good choices and improve these clubs, making hypocrisy not as prevalent. 

2 OPINIONS MAY 7, 2010

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

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.

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.

Jennifer BaileyEditor-in-Chief

Bryce RadickNews Editor/Reporter

Tessa DockinsReporter

Katy ManessReporter

Ashleigh JacksonReporter

Caitlyn CoonReporter

Jake HamiltonWeb Editor/Reporter

Alexis HardyFeatures Editor/Reporter

Natalie BuchReporter/Copy Editor

David ColbusReporter

Ellie KanaskieReporter

Ms. Mary DempseyAdviser

John DavisSports Editor/Reporter

Chad BartholomewReporter

Kira WorthingtonReporter

Jacob FussellReporter

Janelle PfeiferReporter

The O’Fallon Township High School newspaper, The Prowler, is part of the educational curriculum of O’Fallon District 203.

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.

If written, staff editorials will not be signed and will reflect the opinion of the majority of the staff members. Commentaries and columns, on the other hand, will be signed and reflect the individual writer’s views. Any person with an interest in the OTHS community is encouraged to submit letters

THE PROWLER STAFF & POLICIES

Contributors: Mrs. Kathy Ashby, Anthony Bailey, Mr. Ken Cissell, David Ford, Adam Harrel, Tyler Klaus, Kenneth Palausky

Dear OTHS, With one week left for seniors and about

two for underclassmen, I think it is safe to say we survived another crazy year of high school. However, before we mentally check out for the year and forget everything we have learned since August, I would like to take some time to reflect on the past year.

First off, I would like to congratulate my fellow seniors and wish you luck in your future endeavors. Whether you are going to college next year, enlisting, joining the work force or traveling, I hope that you are able to do something you truly enjoy and care about.

Second, our sports teams did great all year as they set and broke records throughout their seasons. I wish you luck next season, and congratulations to all graduates who signed with a college team. That is an amazing achievement, and I wish you the best of luck.

Third, thank you to all students, teachers and faculty who allowed me and my fellow staffers to interview and e-mail you for the Prowler. We truly appreciate your help as it makes our lives easier and our stories and paper better.

Fourth, thanks to the ‘09-’10 Prowler staffs. You guys have helped me learn so much this year about myself. You have also given me more headaches and frustrations than I thought possible, but that is not how I will remember you. I will remember you as the kids with whom I spent most of my senior year, the kids who made me step up and be an editor and the kids who made me laugh on a bad day. Good luck next year, and to quote Fall Out Boy, “thanks for the memories.”

Finally, thank you to Ms. Dempsey. Without your influence I doubt I would know what I want to do after high school. Thanks for “stealing my soul” and having me on both the newspaper and yearbook staffs. They have both provided me with memorable experiences and friendships. I hope you have a great wedding this July and a good move to Kansas City. Thanks for everything.

Good-bye and good luck, Jennifer Bailey

LETTER FROM THE EDITORGroups need members who uphold club morals

As we count down the last days of high school, the members of the senior class, myself included, cannot wait to graduate. We are ready to move on to the next chapter in life, whatever that may be. We have completed our legal quota of years under

our parents’ thumbs, and that makes us adults, right?

Well, legally, that is correct. But mentally and emotionally, we are far from adults.

For example, my family experienced a house fire four years ago, and it caused about $40,000 of damage to our home. Sure, our insurance company covered it and our agent is one of my dad's high school buddies, so he cut us some slack. But it was a lot of emotional, physical and mental stress on my parents.

In no way, shape or form would I be ready to face something like that on my own. Financially, I struggle to keep a $10 bill in my wallet for a significant amount of time, so I would not be prepared to pay for a disaster such as a fire. Emotionally, I ebb and flow with the natural coursing of my hormones, and I am not mentally wired for that kind of pressure.

And I am not alone. I see many of my peers with the same instabilities I possess, and I worry that we are not as grown up as we think.

Case in point: earlier this semester, my Anatomy and Physiology class attended St. Louis University's Cadaver Lab Program, and we actively observed as a fourth year med student presented the different parts of the human body in their natural habitat: a real human body.

Although many of us can agree that viewing a cadaver could trigger our gag reflexes, it was a wonderful opportunity to apply our studies to real life.

However, I could not help but overhear the obscene jokes and whispers made about the donor by some inconsiderate students behind me, and I was appalled by their immaturity.

Though we may claim that maturity is one of our strengths, we hardly understand the meaning of the word.

Some of us believe that we are mature because of our age, and others believe we are mature because of the knowledge we possess, but neither age nor brilliance ensure maturity.

Maturity is measured by behavior. How a person acts determines how mature he or she is.

In the real world, “fun” is banished to the bottom of the priority list, and those who do not comply with the adult standards are thrown to the wayside until they can learn how to be mature. Childhood joys are deterred, and responsibilities clog up daily life.

Growing up encompasses much more than getting older.

As we grow, we do have experiences that teach us vital lessons in how to handle different situations, but this does not mean that we are all ready for the real world.

Seniors: Ready, mature enough for real world?

BY JANELLE PFEIFER AND JAKE FUSSELLopinions@othsprowler.com

BY NATALIE BUCHopinions@othsprowler.com

Students who claim to be Against Destructive Decisions

Graduation Reminders

Final Exam Schedules

Thursday, May 201st Hour - 8-9:30 a.m.

2nd Hour - 9:40-11:10 a.m.3rd Hour - 11:20 a.m.-12:50 p.m.

Bus pickup - 12:50 p.m.

Friday, May 217th Hour - 8-9:30 a.m.

6th Hour - 9:40-11:10 a.m.Early Bird - 11:20 a.m.-12:50 p.m.

Bus pickup - 11:10 a.m.

Monday, May 22 4th Hour - 8-9:30 a.m.

5th Hour - 9:40 -11:10 a.m.Bus Pickup - 11:10 a.m.

Friday, May 21 Graduation practice at 8:30 a.m.

Saturday, May 22 Graduation at 10 a.m.

Seniors must report at 9 a.m.

Thursday, May 201st Hour - 7:30-9 a.m.

2nd Hour - 9:10-10:40 a.m.3rd Hour - 10:50 a.m.-12:20 p.m.

Bus pickup - 12:20 p.m.

Friday, May 217th Hour - 7:30-9 a.m.

6th Hour - 9:10-10:40 a.m.Bus pickup - 10:40 a.m.

Monday, May 22 4th Hour - 7:30-9 a.m.

5th Hour - 9:10 -10:40 a.m.Bus Pickup - 10:40 a.m.

Smiley Milburn

3NEWSMAY 7, 2010

Answer to Cancer 5K for ‘Relay for Life’Summer is quickly approaching, and students

are gearing up for all sorts of adventures. Whether it be hanging out with friends, swimming in lakes or vacationing out of the states, it seems as if everyone has already started putting their plans in motion.

F o r m e m b e r s o f the Relay For Life 5K organization, however, the summer wi l l be kicked off with the first ever Answer to Cancer 5K walk/run fundraiser on May 29, followed by the traditional all night event on June 18.

R e l a y F o r L i f e , sponsored by the American Cancer Society, is described as an event that “gives everyone in communities across the globe a chance to celebrate the lives of people who have battled cancer, remember loved ones lost, and fight back against the disease,” according to the official

website, www.relayforlife.org.At OTHS, this translates to spending multiple

months collecting their individual goals of $100 before coming to the track the day of the event. That night, the group will gather on the school’s

track for 12 hours worth of activities.

“[Relay For L i fe] is an easy way to give back for people who are stressed for time but still want to contribute. Being on a team really only takes a few hours of time spread out over an entire semester, but one can still make a big impact through asking friends and family for contributions and helping to execute fundraisers,” junior Elaine Andell said.

Juniors Elaine Andell and Jordan Tanner are both team captains for this year, and Mrs. Brooke Lewis sponsors the team.

Although students are required to meet or exceed their personal fundraising goals, the team also raises money as a whole through work nights at restaurants and, for the first time ever, hosting

a 5K marathon.“I was really inspired by Ryan Hall, an Olympic

marathoner that started a charity based on giving back to the community though running. I also love running and wanted to combine my love and passion for that with an event that could really make a difference in our community,” Andell said.

A lt houg h Andel l i s excited at the prospect of holding a marathon, an intense load of work has been a part of the journey. In order to put on the race, Andell and her team have had to apply for grants and permits, set a course, raise money, arrange for the police and EMS to be on site and purchase food, prizes and t-shirts.

“I pretty much haven’t slept since January, to be honest. There was a lot of paperwork to fill out and a ton of different people to coordinate things with and a lot of crises over money issues and a million people to prove wrong. Somehow we’ve made it through the process so far,” Andell said.

Tanner agrees that the stress load has been

over the top but that the rewards far outweigh the burdens.

“The actual event is amazing. The luminarias [candlelit bags people relay participants buy in order to honor cancer patients’ lives] people

donate are so touching. The event is tons of fun with friends, food, live music and a bounce castle. But it’s also so emotional with the cancer survivors and the luminaria ceremony. Working at different places and meeting people with the same passions is great,” Tanner said.

Through their hard work and persistence, the Students Who Care teams are making a difference in the fight against cancer.

“I am so blessed to be able to meet some of them and be

reminded that all of the work we do is needed and important, and that as cliche as it sounds, a group of teenagers can really make a difference in the fight against something as huge and threatening as cancer,” Andell said.

Planting a beautiful vegetable garden or recycling an empty soda bottle may seem like hobbies set aside for the less adventurous in life, but, in all actuality, are the shared obligations of each individual inhabiting the earth.

Each year on April 22, many human beings throughout the world celebrate Earth Day to acknowledge their responsibility in maintaining a safe and healthy environment. 

Founded by Senator Gaylord Nelson in 1962, Earth Day was created in order to bring awareness toward pressing environmental issues, such as climate change and energy conservation.

“[To preserve energy], I simply drive less. Carbon emissions from vehicles are one of the leading causes of global warming. You can drive less by walking, cycling, using public transportation and car pooling. Not only does it help the environment, it saves you money and improves your health,” junior Laci Le said.

Among those more than willing to preserve the planet are members of the ecology club. With approximately 15 active members, their small size does not limit their grand environmental endeavors. 

“Ecology is important because it helps us to understand nature and how it works. By understanding [it], we can find ways to help preserve the environment and all that is a part of it,” Le said.

On April 24, the Ecology Club planned to

travel across the river in order to explore the St. Louis Botanical Gardens; however, mother nature made a few plans of her own.

According to Ecology Club sponsor Mr. Baker, the students were expected to take a behind-the-scenes tour of the beautiful gardens and gain additional insight on various environmental organizations. 

Although inclement weather prohibited the students from touring the gardens, junior Emma Scott recalled last year’s experience.

“Last year at the Botanical Gardens, OTHS students had a blast. It’s such a neat place; it really showed me how beautiful our planet can be if we all work together. We learned about plants and how much they really help us survive,” Scott said.

The Ecology club is also involved in projects which directly impact OTHS, such as participating in “Fill the Bin” day and teaming up with NHS to recycle.

“[During ‘Fill the Bin’ day,] we get into small groups and divide up our school’s hallways.[Then] we collect the recycling bins and take them outside to the big bin. It’s really fun and we all get rewarded [afterward] with snacks and drinks,” Scott said.

Although reminders to recycle reusable goods and news of global warming often seem cliche, planet Earth, with a population mounting over 6 billion, requires preservation for generations to come.

“We only have one planet, and no matter who or what caused these problems, it’s up to us to fix them,” Scott said.

BY ELLIE KANASKIEnews@othsprowler.com

State runners-upNewspaper and yearbook students come in second at IHSA State Journalism competition

On April 24, 12 yearbook and Prowler students traveled to Carbondale to participate in the IHSA Journalism Sectional competitions.

There, the team placed first and claimed the sectional championship for the first time in school history.

“The victory was exhilarating,” junior Rachel Freese said.

At the event, the competitors were placed in up to two events out of a variety of challenges. They were given information about a story, graphic, or page layout that needed completion and had 90 minutes to produce the product.

From there, IHSA judges evaluated the students’ final products. At the end of the day, winners were announced.

Out of 15 categories, OTHS placed either first or second in ten.

“It was really exciting to hear O’Fallon’s name being called for first so many times,” junior Mollie Rittenhouse said.

First place honors went to seniors Natalie Buch, Elliott Koehl and Jennifer Bailey and junior Jake Hamilton.

“I was absolutely shell-shocked because I expected that we would do well as a group but I was surprised by my score,” senior Kira Worthington, who placed second in editorial cartooning, said.

The team accredits its performance to experience on the publications staffs. Adviser Ms. Mary Dempsey also had the students practice their events before the competition.

Because of their successes at Sectionals, nine of the teammates participated at the State level on April 30.

At State, they placed second in the team sweepstakes, the highest placing in OTHS history.

“I hoped we would place, but I never expected it,” Bailey said.

Five of the nine participants placed in the top six for their respective events.

“I felt really surprised, like I’m sitting in the car on the way home wondering ‘did that really happen or did I just make it up?’” junior Elaine Andell said after placing first and being named State Champion in Editorial Writing.

“It felt amazing. I never thought I would place. I was just happy that I was at state. I’m really proud of myself and the entire team,” Buch, who placed second in Copy Editing, said.

Koehl placed fifth out of 21 competitors from across the state, and earned his third consecutive state medal in Feature Photography.

“I’ve been there since freshman year. I’m happy that I did it and I medaled,” Koehl said.

In addition to the print journalism honors, IHSA piloted a new Broadcast News Writing category. Sophomore Kein Bartlett participated in the event.

Although the team’s State win came as a surprise, OTHS has had individual success at State before, most notably Koehl’s first in Photography in 2008 and graduate Elana Harrison’s second in Review Writing in 2009.

For a full list of placings, visit the website www.othsprowler.com and click the “OTHS Journalism Awards” tab at the top of the page.

Earth Day

BY BRYCE RADICKnews@othsprowler.com

The State team holds their second place trophy at Eastern Illinois University on April 30. “I was just hoping that some of our students would get medals. Earning a team trophy was truly unexpected,” adviser Ms. Mary Dempsey said. Pictured are, front row: Elaine Andell, Natalie Buch, Alexis Hardy, Kira Worthington, Ms. Dempsey. Second row: Kein Bartlett, Jake Hamilton, Bryce Radick, Elliott Koehl, Rachel Freese, and Jennifer Bailey.

MR. KEN CISSELL

“...a group of teenagers can really make a difference

against something as huge and threatening

as cancer.”-Elaine Andell, junior

BY ASHLEIGH JACKSONnews@othsprowler.com

• New members of the Spanish Honors Society were inducted on April 21. These students show excellent GPAs, exemplary grades in Spanish and also interest in further Spanish education.

• A depression support group has started in Mr. Mike Engel’s office. Five students so far have been coming to Mr. Engel together during the day and trying to help each other through their problems.

• Interact elections will be held soon, and registration for RYLA will be available soon.

• The Math Team traveled to the State competition on May 1.

• Spanish Club will be holding a restaurant trip and salsa dance lessons in the near future.

• Due to the budget cuts and teacher retirements, P.E. classes may have 40 to 50 students per class.

• FCA will be organizing a coaches appreciation breakfast.

• The Summer Reading Program for incoming freshmen and sophomores will begin this summer for its second run.

• Chris Crutcher, a popular author, will be speaking to all freshmen at Milburn on May 10.

Club News Briefs: FCA, InteractBY NATALIE BUCHnews@othsprowler.com

LOGO BY ELLIE KANASKIE

Mother nature takes center stage on vitalenvironmental issues

On Saturday, April 24, O’Fallon’s AFJROTC unit made their final statements as a corps.

In the morning the Colorguard, Inspection team and Drill team competed in their last tournament for the season while the corps as a whole saluted the year goodbye in their annual Awards Banquet.

Hosted at Gateway High School the Gateway Tournament consisted of JROTC units from O’Fallon, Dupo, Beaumont, Cahokia, St. Clair, Alton, Gateway, Lafayette, Roosevelt, Riverview and McLeur.

O’Fallon’s Inspection team took first place. The Armed and Unarmed Drill teams fought hard for first place and were successful in their endeavors.

“I am so proud of the hard work and dedication that the team has shown throughout the year. In my four years of participating on drill team, I have never seen a group of cadets work as hard and look as good as this bunch. One of the judges even told me that she had

never seen better dress and cover [marching alignment] in her life,” senior Brent Fults said.

Despite all of the hard work and practice put into the Colorguard, they bowed out with second place.

“At Gateway I saw the greatest level of performance and focus from my team that I have ever seen. We were flawless other than one loose name tag. Despite getting second place, I know that our team earned and could have, undoubtedly, brought home the satisfaction of a first place trophy. However, there is always next year,” senior Craig Miles said.

Alongside the individual wins, O’Fallon walked away with the overall first place in the competition. Senior Brent Fults was  also awarded with the commander’s trophy, a major feat for one out of 40 other flight commanders.

Planned, prepared and executed by senior Heather Davis, the fifth annual Awards Banquet carried itself off with the easy grace of the expected military performance.

Held in the South Gym, everything was decorated beautifully. The night was a well-organized system of speakers and awards,

planned for precision and set up for perfection.   “Everything went extremely well, but my

favorite part was the POW/MIA presentation. Between their performance and junior Erik Ballard playing Taps, it brought tears to my eyes,” Davis said.

Next year’s top five leadership will include juniors Samantha Bley, Nikki Tevebaugh, Tarina Crook, Kimberly Scharven and Kevin Tormasi.

As a whole, there were many ups and downs throughout the year, but with such an epic win for O’Fallon at the Gateway Tournament and the beautiful Awards Banquet the same night, the year is slowly winding down on a definite positive note.

“I’m going to miss working with these outstanding cadets next year, and I’m sure that our tradition of hard work will carry on in the future,” Fults said.

4 NEWS MAY 7, 2010

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In January, senior Anaya Duncan was awarded the title of O’Fallon Junior Miss.

Due to this success, Duncan had the opportunity to travel to Bolingbrook, Ill., in order to compete for Illinois Junior Miss, which was held on April 10. 

She was among 15 other high schoolers in the state of Illinois who would be judged on essay, interview, scholastic achievement, talent, fitness, self-expression and an on-stage question and answer portion.

While she was there, she participated in daily rehearsals in order to learn the opening number and fitness routine, but she also was given the opportunity to meet all the other girls.

The weekend of April 10, while Duncan was in Bolingbrook, she took the title of Illinois Junior Miss. 

Duncan is the third consecutive O’Fallon citizen to take the title.

The point of the Junior Miss Programs is to award deserving girls scholarship money for college. Duncan says it also helps girls make life long friends and memories.

“I’m still in shock that I am Illinois Junior Miss. There were 15 other girls and the judges chose me. I cannot wait until June when I finally get to meet the 49 other Jr. Misses,” Duncan said.

In June, Duncan will travel to Mobile, Ala. in order to compete for America’s Junior Miss.  During her time off, she has to learn the opening and fitness routines and work on her talent, but Duncan says she cannot wait to go.   

Senior wins Illinois Junior Miss program

AFJROTC wraps up good year

On April 19 and 20, the Mock Trial Team joined with American Legal Systems and American Government classes to attend Washington Law School’s  Trial Advocacy class’s final trials.

The students, who volunteered to participate, learned about the inner-workings of a trial and acted as a mock jury in the cases.

Junior Sarah Fowler chose to attend the trip this year because she “enjoyed the hands-on opportunity of the trip.”

The civil case was a highly realistic arson case. At the end of the trial, OTHS students examined the evidence and took into account the attorneys’ arguments in making a final judgment.

“The whole mock trial felt real, and it was crazy cool. We listened attentively to both the defenses’ and prosecutions’ arguments on a civil case that could happen in real life,” Fowler said.

Mock Trial team sponsor Mr. Chris Busse, who has been taking students on the trip for 14 years, believes it is a good idea because what students learn in a classroom “has more meaning if [they] can see it applied in the real world.”

F o w l e r echoed Mr. Busse’s thought about the effectiveness of being in a hands-on situation.       “I think this trip helped me see everything I learned in the ALS classroom pieced back together to create the puzzle of our legal system,” Fowler said.

Fowler and Mr. Busse believe that learning about the legal process is an important aspect to being a part of society.     “I think everyone needs to know the rights they have in a courtroom, what mistakes the defense and prosecution the lawyers can make and what call the judge can make in concern [to those mistakes],” Fowler said.     While some students may not have thought the experience was as great as Fowler did, Busse ensures that going is still a good thing to do.     “I always tell my students [that] if what you learned by particpating [in the mock trial] is that the legal process and trials are boring, I’m okay with that. Real trials aren’t like CSI. The real thing can be boring or exciting, and that’s like life,” Mr. Busse said.     The trials are held every semester. Mr. Busse estimates that next year’s trip will be around Thanksgiving break and encourages interested students to contact him in the fall.

Students volunteer as mock jury membersBY BRYCE RADICKnews@othsprowler.com

“The whole mock trial

felt real, and it was crazy

cool.”Sarah Fowler,

junior

Gateway Tournament, awards banquet clinch the yearBY KIRA WORTHINGTONnews@othsprowler.com

O’Fallon wins first place overall at the Gateway Tournament. Unarmed and Armed Drill teams. The Competition Color-guard and the Inspection team all joined together for a group photo with their hard earned trophies.

KENNETH PALAUSKY

Seniors Patrick Gagne, Erik McCullough, Craig Miles and junior Jason Richter present the Colors. Due to a loose name tag, they took O’Fallon’s only second place.

KENNETH PALAUSKY

18325

BY JANELLE PFEIFERnews@othsprowler.com

On April 14, the OTHS Robotics team packed its gear and headed to Atlanta, Ga., the site of the 2010 FIRST Robotics National Competition.

The FIRST season began on Jan. 9, with the announcement of this year’s challenge, a game very similar to soccer. From there, each team was given a set number weeks to design and build its robot. Currently, there are over 1,800 teams from 12 countries.

Officially, the OTHS Metool Brigade team 1208 started its playing season in Kansas City March 4-6. After eight wins, three losses and two ties, the team came home ranked 21 of 59 in The Greater Kansas City Regional.

Not long afterward, 1208 participated in the St. Louis Regional. There, the team performed above expectations, leading the competition by up to 90 points at various times. They won all of their matches except two ties.

After three days of hard work, teamwork and dedication, OTHS emerged as the 2010 St. Louis Regional Champions and therefore qualified for Nationals.

At 8:30 a.m. 39 people, 28 students, 10 adults and one baby boarded a charter bus and began the long drive to Atlanta.

While in Georgia, the team woke up early

and arrived each morning at the Georgia Dome by 8 a.m. to ensure enough time to look over the robot, make any last minute changes and get ready for the day’s matches.

“I was one of the head scouters with [senior] Brenn Hagarty,” junior Jessie Ehlers said when asked what her job was on the trip.

Over 400 teams competed at Nationals, and each team was put into one of four divisions: Newton, Galileo, Archimedes and Curie. OTHS was placed in Newton.

Through spots of bad luck, the team experienced many problems. From a delayed kicker to a malfuntioning drivers station, things did not seem to be going well for the team.

Out of its 10 matches, The Metool Brigade won six and lost four, leaving its

rank going into the semifinals as 32 out of the 86 in its division, and, unfortunately, they did not make it to the next level.

“[This year,] the team was exceptional. [Next year,] a lot of our really talented people are leaving, but we still have lots of talented people like Jessie [Ehlers],” club sponsor Mr. Eric Curry said.

Even with so many people graduating and leaving the club, Mr. Curry’s expectations are high.

“Next year we will be training lots of people and building robots, and we will be successful,” Mr. Curry said.

5NEWSMAY 7, 2010

O’Fallon’s robot, nicknamed “Kickbot” hangs on a wire for bonus points in the FIRST Robotics National Competition. Each time Kickbot attempted this task, it was successful thanks to junior Stephanie Germuga’s winch operation.

CAITLYN COON

On April 8, over 670 students congregated at Washington University for its 34th Annual German Day Celebration. German classes from all over Missouri, Illinois and other states were invited.

German Day brings students from all over to compete in German based contests and experience German culture.

O’Fallon students won four awards in the many contests held.

“Considering the number of students there, the way we won four awards was really impressive,” German teacher Ms. Kathy Ashby said.

Each school that attended could submit a single video between five and 10 minutes in length. The film had to center around this year’s theme: music in German speaking countries.

O’Fallon’s submission won first place. The film focused on a grandmother and her grandaughter discussing old and new German music.

In addition, junior Jordan Thieleman won first place in Level 3 Declamation, and sophomore Samantha Heinrich won second place in Level 2 Declamation with her recitation of “Mondnacht”.

“I was kind of shocked, because there were a lot of people who there who I thought did a better job,” Heinrich said.

OTHS also made semi-finals in the German spelling bee and received an honorable mention

in the poster contest. Other contests included the German skit

contest, in which students present a skit under 10 minutes of length of their choice. The skits were judged on their costumes, acting and use of the German language.

Among the contests between schools, there were also games for all students.

In the Süßigkeiten counting contest, all students could guess as to how many candies were in a container. The closest guess won the container and all treats found within.

Students could watch German TV commericals and win candy if they succeeded in a short quiz afterwards.

Teams of three to five gathered for the Schnitzeljagd, or the scavanger hunt. They were given a questionnaire about the campus which teams had to complete. The team who completed with the shortest amount of time won.

“It was a nice break from school to do something related to school,” Heinrich said.

At the end of the day, students walked away with prizes and the valuable experience of immersion in another culture and language.

Schueler besuchen Washington Universitaet fuer Deutscher Tag

BY DAVID COLBUSnews@othsprowler.com

Model UN models success Robotics goes down to Georgia looking for a title to steal

BY CAITLYN COONnews@othsprowler.com

Countries from around the globe were represented by high school delegates at McKendree University to discuss many different topics.

On April 13-15, the Model United Nations club participated in its annual Spring Conference. The competition was comprised most of the Metro-East, with schools from as far south as Coulterville and as far north as Staunton attending.

Overall, the team took third place out of 15 schools, earning a Superior Delegation award for their efforts. The delegation was headed by senior Danielle Carter, who earned three awards for her work, including Outstanding Delegate,

a Superior Policy Statement and a Superior Position Paper.

Seniors Emily Turk and Max Polley, along with junior Carl Thrasher, received Superior Delegate awards.

When asked about the conference, Turk said that she enjoyed the competition and was happy with the delegation’s performance.

Sophomores Erin Turk and Emma Gatewood also got a taste of success, taking awards for Superior Resolution and Honorable Mention Delegate, respectively.

Club sponsor Mr. Brad Dickerson was pleased with the delegation and their performances.

“All of our delegates performed at a high level and put in a great deal of hard work through the entire semester in order to prepare for this conference,” he said.

Students visit Washington University for German Day

All the students on the German Day field trip pose in front of an archway at Washington University. Students enjoyed German culture, poetry and literature throughout the day, and some participated in German competitions.

MS. KATHY ASHBY

BY JOHN DAVISnews@othsprowler.com

• Service Award Recipients (10 years)- Melissa Bursich, Jana Stephens, Mara Koerkenmeier, Stacy Becker, Deb-bie Raboin, Ben Brooks, Libby Magee, Rick Gibson, Amy Gomric, Khara Vanderheyden, Tracey Ritzel, Matthew Wilson, Michelle Mersinger, Vickie Haeffner, Tim Steele, Robin Mason, Jean Karius, Marilyn Gallo

• Service Award Recipients (20 years)- Becky Merrill, Kevin Kellerman

• Service Award Recipients (30 years)- Kaye Jerashen, Rhonda Bruckner

• Belleville News Democrat Large School Football Coach of the Year- Brandon Joggerst •

• Emerson Excellence in Teaching - Jodie Seipp

• Endowment Fund Award/Grant - Roelof Melzer

• Illinois Basketball Coaches Asso-ciation Coach of the Year, Belleville News Democrat Coach of the Year - Rick Gibson

• IHSSCA Region 12 Coach of the Year, Honorary Member of Na-tional Youth Leadership forum on National Security- Jason Turkington

• 2009 Illinois Enviromental Hero Award - Traci Isom, Debbie Raboin,Kelly Wamser-Remijan, Ken Cissell

• Illinois High School Baseball Coaches Class 4A Coach of the Year, Belleville News Democrat Class 3A/4A Baseball Coach of the Year, Metro East Baseball Coaches Association Class 3A/4A Baseball Coach of the Year. - Jason Portz

• Journalism Education Association ‘Rising Star Award’ - Mary Dempsey

Teacher Awards

Art Awards• SWIC Best of Show - Senior Sarah Rutledge• Art Book Award - Junior Kyle Merz• Jurors Award Certificate- Junior Haley Kuhlhoff, sophomore Rachel Park• Kiwanis Club Award - Sophomore Jackie Bayham

“Next year we will be training lots of people and

building robots, and we will be successful.”

-Mr. Eric Curry

“All of our delegates performed at a high level...”

-Mr. Brad Dickerson

6 NEWS MAY 7, 2010TOP TEN NEWS

www.scottswansonphoto.com 618-978-1447

Centerpiece graphic showing a cross-section of Iceland’s Eyjafjallajokull volcano and the larger, nearby Katla volcano.

CHICAGO TRIBUNE/MCT

Ruben Garcia holds a 21-gram meteorite found by a member of his group, April 20, 2010 in Iowa County near Livingston, Wisconsin. Meteorite hunters from across the nation have descended upon the area looking for pieces of the meteor that lit up the sky last Wednesday. Garcia, who lives near Phoenix, Arizona, searches for meteorites to earn a living.

MARK HOFFMAN/MCT

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BY DAVID COLBUSnews@othsprowler.com

European airlines suffer from Iceland’s volcanic eruption, no lives lost

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Chart listing members of Poland’s executive branch liked in plane crash in Russia; includes chart showing number of legislators who also lost their lives in the disaster. Chicago Tribune 2010

CHICAGO TRIBUNE/MCT

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An Icelandic volcano erupted on April 14, causing hundreds to evacuate, rivers to flood and plumes of ash to fill the sky, closing down airports in several European countries. This was the second eruption of this volcano in a month. No lives were lost in the eruption, but there was flood damage caused by the melting of the Eyjafjallajokull glacier. While not a threat to people on the ground, the toxic fumes caused many airports to close and flights to be cancelled throughout Europe. The Red Cross provided shelter for the hundreds of evacuees. (NY Times)

    On April 7, large uprisings toppled the government of Kyrgyzstan. The opposition party deposed the president, Kurmanbek Bakiyev and forced him to flee the country. The parliament of Kyrgyzstan was dissolved by opposition leaders, and a new interim government headed by ex-minister Roza Otunbayeva has taken power. The uprising ended with several dead and over 1,000 injured. Otunbayeva is currently urging Bakiyev to resign and stand trial, but Bakiyev is unwilling to return unless his safety is guaranteed. (BBC)

Thailand’s Red Shirt political party has been holding mass protests for the last six weeks. Despite military operations on the part of Thailand’s government, the protestors continue to spread and settle in the capital, Bangkok. All attempts at compromise have failed as the Red-Shirts call for parliament to be dissolved and the start of new elections. Despite promises from the Thai prime minister that force will not be used, violence between the two factions has left 23 people dead. (BBC)

Russia is no longer allowing Americans to adopt Russian children after an American adopter sent back an adopted child to Moscow alone. This is the latest in many alleged mistreatments of Russian children, and the freeze will last until a bilateral agreement can be signed. Russian lawmakers have urged the suspension of American adoptions in the past due to alleged cases of mistreatment. (BBC)

A 6.9 earthquake rocked China’s Tibetan plateau on April 14, killing at least 617 people. Many survivors had to brave a chilly night outdoors, leading to more injuries because of exposure to the cold. Over 10,000 people were injured in the quake, and hundreds are still unaccounted for. Buddhist monks in the area tried to help the survivors of the quake, along with the soldiers provided by the Chinese government. The president Hu Jintao has called for an all-out effort in rescue attempts.(NY Times)

On April 12, the Upper Big Branch Mine in West Virginia suffered a huge explosion. Twenty-nine miners were killed in total, making this the worst mining disaster in the country in four decades. The bodies were recovered after days of effort by rescue workers. The explosion was caused by a methane buildup in the mine. The mine had failed to go by proper regulations regarding methane safety precautions, leading to the deadly explosion. (NY Times)

A new arms control treaty was signed by President Barack Obama and Russian President Dmitry Medvedev on April 8. The treaty requires both America and Russia to reduce their nuclear stockpiles by approximately 30 percent over the next seven years. This new document will replace the now expired Strategic Arms Reduction Treaty that had previously dictated the amount of arms both nations could hold. Both nations believe that the reduction in arms will not decrease the deterrence factor of the weapons, and that by decreasing their stockpiles, it will encourage other nations to do so as well. It is believed that making this progress with Russia will also increase the United States relations in other areas. (NPR)

A law setting new limits on abortion was passed in Nebraska on April 13, making it illegal to have an abortion 20 weeks after conception. The lawmakers believe that at this point and onward, the fetus has a capacity for pain. This is the first law to restrict abortions based on these terms. Exceptions are granted for medical emergencies, imminent death and serious, irreversible impairment to bodily function to the mother. The law will take effect on Oct. 15. (NY Times)

Polish President Lech Kaczynski and many other senior officials died in a plane crash on April 10. The delegation was traveling to Russia for the 70th memorial of the Katyn Massacre. Several trees clipped the plane on its way down to the Smolensk airport, causing it to crash. The airport was covered in fog and air traffic control allegedly told the aircraft to land at a different airport numerous times. All 97 people aboard the plane, including the army chief, the president, the president’s wife and numerous senior military and political officials, died in the crash. Bronislaw Komorowski is currently acting president of Poland until elections are held. (BBC)

On April 15, a large fireball lit up the sky across the Midwest. A meteor entered the atmosphere late at night, with the resulting light lasting for 15 minutes. Many people reported that trees, homes and the ground shook. It is speculated that it may have been a piece of the Gamma Virginids meteor shower that occurred between April 4 and April 21. (BND)

Although most everyone who goes to OTHS has participated in Blizzard, there’s more to the story.

The theme, the small groups, and short movie serve to relieve the mysteries of high school about which incoming freshmen might be nervous.

On Tuesday, April 13, Blizzard took place at the Milburn campus, the new territory for the freshmen of OTHS.

This new territory was ladened with this year’s “Monsters vs. Aliens” theme, which was perfectly portrayed throughout the day.

The Blizzard skit, centered around the movie “Monsters vs. Aliens,” showcased the measure of true friendship, the severity of peer pressure and the horrors of bad judgement.

During the day, it was not just incoming freshmen adjusting to the new style of school; there was a slight confusion for the Blizzard leaders as well.

“Making the move from the Smiley campus to Milburn was no doubt difficult for older high schoolers, but it was also an eye opening experience.... Not only did the eighth graders

get to experience their futures, but the Smiley kids also got to step into the shoes of future freshmen,” senior Jenny Stroot said.

“My favorite part of Blizzard was the small groups [where] we got to learn about what junior high kids are looking forward to in high school,” junior Chelsea Hendrix said.

While warm fuzzies was the climax of Blizzard, group activities, the movie “Truth of Lies” and the speech given by a county inmate rounded out the whole experience.

“After 19 years at Smiley, I think our first year of Blizzard at the Milburn campus was an enormous success,” guidance counselor and Blizzard sponsor Mr. Mike Engel said.

Although Blizzard took place on unfamiliar ground for both the Blizzard crew and incoming freshmen, it retained the same meanings and the level of excellence as a program, helping to ease the pains of the new school environment.

7FEATURESMAY 7, 2010

BY KATY MANESSfeatures@othsprowler.com

BY JAKE HAMILTONfeatures@othsprowler.com

Carter, Wilson named April students of the month

Blizzard integrates next year’s high schoolers, monster style

Honors Night Awards2010 PRAIRIE STATE ACHIEVEMENT

AWARDSMargaret Armstrong

Jacob BeyerKatherine Bowman

Cody DavisMegan Dice

Alexandria DunnellsMichael Edwards

Sarah MansfieldHayley Motowski

Anne NikolaDevin Valmores

Cassandra WhalenKatrina WhitlowNathaniel Wilson

2010 NATIONAL MERIT COMMENDED STUDENTS

Danielle CarterAlexandria Dunnells

Isaac EickmeierAneesh Joseph

Taylor McKinstryCassandra WhalenKatrina Whitlow

2010 NATIONAL ACHIEVEMENT SCHOLARSHIP FINALISTS

Kyle Burton Christopher Gamble

2010 ATHLETE OF THE YEAR AWARD

Emma Goldschmidt Keith Surber

CURRICULUM AWARDS

Paul Dove Mathematics AwardMichael Lustig

English Department Award of ExcellenceMegan Dice

The Illinois Council of Teachers of Mathematics Award

Taylor Noles

Robert J. Kern Journalism AwardJennifer Bailey

Ron Larimore Social Studies AwardKelly Emmons

National Science Teacher’s Association AwardAmber Shepherd

O’Fallon Township High School Science Award of Excellence

Isaac Eickmeier

World Language Department AwardKevin Flaiz

The two students who earned the illustrious title Student of the Month for April are Danielle Carter and Nate Wilson.

When it comes to career, Carter plans on becoming a foreign media correspondent. It does not hurt that She is involved in a long list of time many consuming extracurriculars. 

A few are Scholar Bowl, Chamber Choir, Model UN, WYSE, and Broadcast Club. 

Like many of the previous Student of the Months she concurs that the parking space is the best part about it.

“I drive to school almost every day, so that has to be [it],” Carter said.

Although Carter tends to procrastinate, she loves when she can help people.

“I help people with homework or studying all the time,” Carter said.

On the subject of teachers and classes, she says “My favorite class and teacher was U.S. History with Mr. Day, because I love history, and Mr. Day taught us really random history facts in addition to the basics.”

If Carter could change one thing about

OTHS, she would add perks for the seniors, such as a separate parking lot or earlier dismissal.

However in Wilson's case, he is still deciding between Knox College and Northwest Missouri State University. He is sure that he will major in Biology with a pre-medicine course load though.

Like Carter, Wilson’s thinks the “awesome parking spot,”  is the coolest thing about it.

Wilson is involved in many school sponsored activities like NHS, Spanish National Honors Society, StuCo, FCA, Varsity Football, Varsity Lacrosse, and Blizzard.

Wilson says his favorite teacher is Mr. Turkington

“because of the way he teaches.  He is genuinely interested in building a relationship with each and every one of his students.”

If Wilson could change anything about high school, it would be to eliminate high school drama and cliques.

“It’s great to have friends, but don’t judge others or exclude anyone ever, because you may miss out on new friendships. Dream big and never give up.  And for the OTHS teachers and staff, thank you.  It has been a great four years,” Wilson said.

Seniors Danielle Carter and Nate Wilson were honored with the title of Student of the Month for April.

JAKE FUSSELL

Senior Katherine Bowman and juniors Corey Walsh and Sam Peter gather their group at the start of Blizzard. The incoming freshmen experience the feel of what high school will be like with a mixed group of people.

TYLER KLAUS

Juniors Greg Belter and John Ames wait for news from the sponsors about what is happening next. Blizzard was held on new grounds this year, and everything seemed to change for it.

“Don’t judge others or exclude anyone ever, because you may miss out on new friendships.”

-Nate Wilson, senior

TYLER KLAUS

Buie, Ott honored as final set of students of the month

May’s Students of the Month are seniors Natalie Ott and Jon Buie.

JAKE FUSSELL

BY JAKE FUSSELLfeatures@othsprowler.com

The final month before summer vacation, May, also means the last pair of Students of the Month. This month’s notable duo is seniors Natalie Ott and Jonathan Buie.

With the final stages of senioritis setting in, these two cannot wait to start their college careers.

Both plan to take their interests to the college level: Ott to Loyola at Chicago for a biology major and Buie to the University of Illinois for an engineering major.

Both Ott and Buie are prominent members of National Honors Society with Ott as project coordinator and Buie as the president.

Although you have seen them in the OTHS halls, they both have committed much of their time to out-of-school activities.

Both show their dedication to enriching children’s lives and providing services the

community needs.Ott is the Vice President of her church

youth group, which went on a mission trip to New Orleans. Buie gives back to the community through his involvement in Little Panthers Football Camp.

Both Ott and Buie say they have loved their time at OTHS, but if they could improve one thing at OTHS, they believe there should be some sort of compensation for students who work hard at OTHS, like honors students.

“With all the effort put in by honors kids, they deserve to have extra privileges,” Ott said.

From freshmen to senior year, these two have experienced a lot of the triumphs and pitfalls that OTHS has to offer, but through it all they never lost their smiles and sanity.

“With the pressures and stresses that high school places on kids, I think it's in everyone's best interest to always be yourself. Remember that the little things often bring the most joy,” Buie said.

“I think it’s in everyone’s best

interest to always be yourself.”

-Jonathan Buie, senior

All the projects I seem to get the last two weeks of school.-Craig Miles, senior

IN FOCUS8the month:

What will you miss most about OTHS? ‘06-‘07

Question of

A trip downmemory lane

Outdoor Hallway... Four years ago, OTHS looked very different than it does now. In the ‘06-’07 school year, students could walk outside between classes in what is now the 1000 hallway. It stretched from the double doors just past the 400 hall all the way to the 100 hall. This outdoor hallway gave students a breath of fresh air from the monotony of the indoor school setting, even in the chilly winter months.

The infamous Bobcat... With the outdoor hallway available, the west side of the OTHS campus was decorated with green plants and shade four years ago. One day, this foliage seemed to be the perfect resting place for a wild bobcat on the loose in O’Fallon suburbia. The animal stayed hidden in the brush for about an hour. During a passing period, the influx of students spooked it, and it darted across the street and out of sight. A remake of its visit soon aired on the Panther Beat, stirring up a long running appearance of the newly famous paper bobcat.

Also that school year...•Dance themes: Disney Homecoming & Tonight Never Dies Prom •Plays: Witness for the Prosecution & Beauty and the Beast •First ever Battle of the Bands •The ‘Dynasty’, Class of 2007 wins spirit stick all four years•Boys’ Soccer Elite Eight •Boys’ Basketball #2 in State

First ever Mr. Irresistible... In early spring 2007, OTHS hosted its first Mr. Irresistible pageant. Ten of the most irresistible senior guys competed for the crown with their looks, talent and charm. At the end of the night, Logan Short was crowned the first Mr. Irresistible, with Jake Young as first Runner Up and Nick Szwedo as second Runner Up.

Also that school year...•Dance themes: Hollywood Homecoming & A Night of Infinite Memories Prom •Plays: Romeo and Juliet & Little Shop of Horrors• Otaku Club was born• Last year for eating outside at picnic benches• Earthquake in O’Fallon•OTHS bomb threat

Teens for Jeans... Inspired by the Channel One commercials for DoSomething.org, Ms. Tiffany Schneider and the AYO Step Team launched the Teens for Jeans campaign at OTHS. In a heated competition between advisory classes, Ms. Ashlee Heady’s advisory pooled together 296 pairs of jeans to donate to local homeless shelters, making a 2,265 pair total collected by the entire school.

Construction... With the danger of the bobcat incident and the growing need for more classrooms, the outdoor hallway was closed off during the summer months and fall of 2007 as the school underwent construction. The only east-west travel available for passing periods was the already very crowded 800 hall (then called the Panther Promenade) and the 600 hall, making it difficult to get to classes on time. Once the newly extended 1000 hall opened; however, foot traffic eased the stress of the crowded hallways.

  Expansion...  Still, the capacity of the building was being pushed, and obvious signs of needed expansion showed even after the new hallway was added. This was brought up to the school board, and another referendum about expanding the high school appeared on the ballot for the next election. By a wide margin, the proposal to build a freshman campus passed, and talk of the new campus spread like wildfire, even into an emcee skit for February Frolics.

‘07-‘08

Transformations at OTHS over the last four years

“

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”

“

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”The warm Sodexo cookies. Oh, and I guess everyone else.-Elaine Quitos, senior

Filling out my pass book every time I have to use the bathroom.-Geoff Dudley, senior

I will miss pep rallies, for sure, and the general atmosphere of the crowded hallways.-Cal Stierwalt, senior

I will miss all of my friends and some of the teachers.-Carla Scott, senior

My friends, the lacrosse team and the over all awesomeness of OTHS.-Brandon Churchill, senior

”“

BY ALEXIS HARDY

MAY 7, 2010 9

It was the best of times. It was the worst of times. No matter how one views it, it is easy to admit that we will miss the seniors.

The class of 2010 is making its way from high school to college, and, for the rest of us, from our lives to our memories.

Since we have spent most of our high school careers with these people, a lot of underclassmen will miss the seniors dearly.

No one wants the seniors to leave especially since many have been, according to junior Maddie Cunningham, our “Best friends since freshman year!”

They have impacted our school years and our lives here in the most profound way. 

“There are so many great leaders in their class, and the school won’t be the same without them here,” sophomore Sarah Russel said.

Even the teachers are feeling the effects of this year’s “senioritis.” However, their version is much the opposite; they do not want to see the seniors leave these hollowed halls.

“I have seen many of them grow from freshman in Geometry to senior leaders in the National Honor Society. Although I will miss

them, I’m proud of the people they have become and am excited to see the great things they will accomplish after high school.” math teacher Mrs. Schieppe said.

There is no doubt that the

seniors will be missed, but there is more to the story then that. Juniors will be taking their place, and sophomores are not too far behind. 

“All I know is that the seniors will definitely have to come back and visit us. But, I can’t wait to take their place as seniors,” junior Whitney Jordan said.

Each of us has a teacher who has impacted our lives in a big way. A teacher who brightened our day, made us laugh or taught us a life lesson.

For me, that teacher is Mrs. Sue Arnold.

Mrs. Arnold has called OTHS her home for 33 years while teaching Physical Education.

Additionally, she was the girls' track coach for three years, girls' cheerleading coach for 12 years, Golden Girls' coach for 18 years and the Homecoming Parade Coordinator for 33 years.

Even through all of the busy times, Mrs. Arnold has still made time every day to maintain personal relationships with each of her students.

“I love her because she is always loving toward all of her students and takes time out of her day to talk to each of us individually,” senior Emma Chapman said.

This year, along with the Class of 2010,

Mrs. Arnold will be leaving OTHS.She said she will miss many aspects of OTHS.“[I will miss] the faculty and staff I see and

talk to every day. Also, my Adaptive Physical Education classes and the students I talk to every day on a personal basis,” Mrs. Arnold said.

After retiring, Mrs. Arnold plans on working for her husband's car repair

business, going out to lunch with other retired OTHS faculty and traveling when everyone else is in school.

Mrs. Arnold will be someone I will never forget because of the impact she had on my life personally.

I met Mrs. Arnold my sophomore year as one of her many P.E. students, but over the years she has become more

than a teacher to me. She always has a smile

on her face and she has a heart of gold I will always remember.

This year we will be “graduating” together and I will surely miss seeing her every day.

Mrs. Arnold will forever hold the sparkling title in my heart as “Best Teacher Ever.”

Hopeful wishes for

“There are so many great leaders in their class, and the school won’t be the

same without them here.”-Sarah Russel, sophomore

BY JAKE FUSSELLfeatures@othsprowler.com

BY ALEXIS HARDYfeatures@othsprowler.com

Arnold ‘graduates’ with Class of 2010

Gucci of all trades bids her farewell to OTHS

After 35 years,  Mrs. Joan Guciardo is well known for her fun antics during class time.

Mrs. Guciardo has enjoyed every minute of teaching at OTHS.

During these 35 years of teaching, she has had a huge range of students and has taught a variety of classes from Foods and Nutrition to Clothing and Textiles.

Often in her classes, she enjoys entertaining her students with funny stories.

For example, in Foods and Nutrition she told a story about a student who stuck a knife in the crack on the side of stove, which made electricity spark across the room. The oven ended up completely destroyed.

Many students enjoy the hands-on aspect of Mrs. Guciardo’s classes. Combined with her relaxed classroom environment, she keeps everyone calm in her classroom.

“This class is chilled, and I love that,” junior Matt Lee said.

Even though Mrs. Guciardo will be leaving OTHS after this year, she will stay busy with her other job, Crafty Eye Photography.

As the president of the company, she oversees the day-to-day operations of the studio. She also works in the office as needed answering the phone, greeting clients, sales and doing anything else that needs to be done.

On a personal note, I have only known Mrs. Guciardo for one semester, but she has given me all kinds of facts that have made me laugh.

I hope that she will be happy doing what she wants in her free time, and traveling to her many homes with her dog, Annie, who she is always telling stories about.

From all of us that will be graduating with you at the end of the year, thank you and good luck, Mrs. Guciardo.

BY CHAD BARTHOLOMEWfeatures@othsprowler.com

A trip downmemory lane

‘09-‘10Also this school year...•Dance themes: Dancing through the Decades Homecoming & Cirque du Soleil Prom •Plays: The Man Who Came to Dinner & Les Miserables• Hand Sanitizers installed due to Swine Flu scare•New International Grilled Cheese in cafeteria • Teacher Biggest Loser• Keith Surber won state• Basketball team 4th at State

The Milburn Campus... In the fall of 2009 this campus opened to welcome the Class of 2013, the first class ever to attend the newly built facility. Brand new classrooms, hallways and a new spacious, state-of-the-art auditorium were available to faculty and students. OTHS administration strived to keep both campuses working as one unit throughout the year.

No more Honor Roll Tea... With two campuses, many events were altered to account for the change. Among these events was the Honor Roll Tea. This year, there was no Honor Roll Tea, but students were still rewarded for their hard work. Honor roll students received treats in advisory and were entered in a drawing for prizes during the Spring Pep Rally.

  Passport Agendas... To save on paper passes, OTHS distributed new agendas at the beginning of the school year containing hall passes. Students are now required to carry these books in order to travel in the school during class time. At the beginning of the year, many students despised this new policy, especially the Senior Class of 2010, but several attitudes have changed since then.

Teens for Jeans... Inspired by the Channel One commercials for DoSomething.org, Ms. Tiffany Schneider and the AYO Step Team launched the Teens for Jeans campaign at OTHS. In a heated competition between advisory classes, Ms. Ashlee Heady’s advisory pooled together 296 pairs of jeans to donate to local homeless shelters, making a 2,265 pair total collected by the entire school.

  Expansion...  Still, the capacity of the building was being pushed, and obvious signs of needed expansion showed even after the new hallway was added. This was brought up to the school board, and another referendum about expanding the high school appeared on the ballot for the next election. By a wide margin, the proposal to build a freshman campus passed, and talk of the new campus spread like wildfire, even into an emcee skit for February Frolics.

Transformations at OTHS over the last four years

‘08-‘09

IMC and Security Desk... After school ended in the spring of 2008, the school underwent construction again during the summer, but this time, the project was much smaller. The plan to build a security desk in the main lobby was drawn after a bomb threat scare had occurred at OTHS on April 20, 2008. Also, the Instructional Media Center was remodeled so it could offer students more resources, and Mrs. Jennifer Lara created its design.

Athletic Complex... The new athletic complex was in its first year of use. The project had finished just before the school year started, and the athletic teams took quick advantage of the new facilities. The first Homecoming football game played on the turf field, however, was a bittersweet memory because the Panthers suffered a difficult loss to the Belleville West Maroons.

Senior Pranks... The Class of ‘09 took senior pranks to the next level with one of the grossest pranks in OTHS history. After thoroughly dissecting and examining his deceased cat specimen for Honors Biology II, a prankster slipped it out of the classroom and placed it in the very busy intersection of the 400 hall and the 800 hall just before a passing period. Though some students appreciated the caliber of the prank, others were offended to find the animal’s carcass in their path, and the culprit was identified and punished.

Also that school year...•Dance themes: Sunset by the Sea Homecoming & Masquerade Prom •Plays: Frankenstein & Bye Bye Birdie•New prom venue (Regency Center) • Last freshman class to hit Smiley campus• New Madrigals king & queen costumes• Last year for Panther Pride Run• New ranch dressing• Mr. Toler, Mr. Dirnbeck, and Mrs. Lugge retiredBY NATALIE BUCH

Class of 2010 leaves lasting impression at OTHSgraduating seniors

10 FEATURES MAY 7, 2010

This showdown is for all the marbles. Teachers and students have one last chance to show who dominates. Will it be the teachers, or will it be the students? Science teacher Mr. Matthew Denny takes on junior Ben Hanley in a battle of Star Wars trivia.

1) What does it mean when an Ewok says “Yub yub?” Hanley: Let's go! Denny: Yes... Way to go, Hanley! That is the answer. The score is students 1, teachers 0. 2) You may have seen the “Vote for Jabba” posters around the school, but what planet did Jabba come from?Hanley: Nal-Hutta. Denny: Nal-Hutta. Unfortunately, both answers are wrong this time. What we are looking for is Tatooine. 3) Who was the first person that Anakin Skywalker killed with a lightsaber?Hanley: A slaver, Krayn, right? Denny: Ha ha, a sand person. Wow, yes Hanley. A slaver named Krayn is correct; the score is 2-0. 4) How many platforms are there in the Senate amphitheater?Hanley: I think it's 1,023. Denny: I'm gonna go with 600. Oh, so close, Hanley; however, there are actually 1,024. 5) What is the snow creature that attacks Luke in the ‘Empire Strikes Back’ called?Hanley: Wampa. Denny: Wampa. Nice job guys. Both responses are perfect. The score has moved to 3-1. 6) Who gave Anakin Skywalker his first kiss? Hanley: Tahiri. Denny: Um... Jabba the Hutt. Don't we all wish, Mr. Denny. Tahiri is right for Hanley, who now leads 4-1. 7) What are the double bladed lightsabers traditionally used for by the Jedi?Hanley: Training. Denny: Fighting multiple enemies. That was our guess as well, Mr. Denny, but, training is surprisingly what they used it for. Hanley is winning 5-1. 8) What are the natives of Dantooine called? Hanley: Dantori. Denny: ...Dead now.Although they are “dead now,” we are really looking for Dantori. Hanley is on fire, 6-1. 9) What city on Kamino does Obi-Wan go to in ‘Attack of the Clones?’Hanley: Tipoca city.Denny: Clone city... Both seem like legitimate answers, but Tipoca city is the one we want. Hanley gains another point, 7-1. 10) What does AT-ST stand for? Hanley: All Terrain Scout Transport. Denny: All Terrain Scout Transport. Both are correct!

Awesome job, guys. Hanley won this round, with a final score of 8-2.

Looks like the high schoolers are simply the better trivia contestants. Perhaps the teachers might need to crack open a few books, watch a few movies, and study pop culture more closely.

BY JAKE FUSSELL AND ELLIE KANASKIEfeatures@othsprowler.com

Ben Folds might as well be considered one of the great entertainers of our time.  He might not have the fan base of musicians like Lady Gaga or The Killers, but he does have talent that could be compared to Elton John or Billy Joel.

On April 16, Folds came to the Chaifetz Arena at the University of St. Louis.  The venue seemed like an indie convention of Ben Folds look-alikes; most guys were dressed in plaid and thick rimmed glasses. 

Although the stadium was not as full as usual, Folds still was able to put on a great show.

Matt Pond PA opened for Folds, playing songs from his new CD and one of his more well known songs, “Halloween”.  Afterward, Ben Folds finally took the stage.

Folds is a great entertainer in the respect that he knows how to put on a good show that keeps the audience involved.  He had the audience clapping along to “Annie Waits,” and in “You

Don’t Know Me,” the audience sang Regina Spektor’s duet part while Folds took the lead.

One of the most engaging moments of the night was when Folds had the audience do something that “they say can’t be done.” During “Not the Same,” Folds had the audience singing in four part harmony during the chorus.

In addition to Folds’s piano, the audience also was entertained by a three minute drum solo.

Also, Folds made time to play two songs from his new CD and told the audience, “You heard them first so you can tell your grandchildren when they become classics.”

After Folds closed with “Rockin the Suburbs,” the entire arena erupted for an encore presentation.  When Folds finally came out for an encore he played a Dr. Dre cover. 

Even though Folds did not play a crowd favorite, “The Luckiest,” (as it was shouted out numerous times from the audience), the concert was clearly a success and left the audience pleased.  

BY JANELLE PFEIFERfeatures@othsprowler.com

A long time ago in a classroom far, far away. . . .

It is a period of senioritis, which now seems to affect all students due to the teachers’ exams, final projects and, with any luck, a funny, harmless senior prank.

During the battle for decent grades and summer fun, junior Ben Hanley managed to volunteer himself for one of OTHS’s most epic battles: Pop Culture Showdown.

After escaping the unmatched danger of the DEATH STAR, Hanley found himself in a classroom on a distant planet. There, he was confronted by none other than Star Wars aficionado Mr. Matthew Denny. A heated battle ensued, and both competitiors knew that this battle would act as the final showdown in the war between the Empire, the teachers, and the Rebels, the students. Hanley focuses himself for the battle to save his people and restore freedom to the entire school....

These past few years have looked pretty bleak for women in the hip hop industry. Recently, however, one female rhymer has stepped up to the plate in the male-dominated rap game.

Nicki Minaj, born Onika Maraj, is known for spitting sharp, vulgar lines that has made her synonymous with the Young Money label and constantly recognized as rapper Lil Wayne’s protege.

While not as well known as her male rapper counterpart, Minaj is well-equipped with her insulting lyrics and sharp flow ammo.

Minaj began by simply providing back-up vocals for amateur musicians, but she soon realized that in order to get acknowledged in the rap big leagues, she had to take a more original route. She then took up writing her own rap lyrics that eventually caught the attention of the Dirty Money CEO, Fendi.

A few months later, Minaj sparked the

interest of mogul Lil Wayne and, in 2009, she became the first and only female rapper for the Young Money Entertainment recording label.

Minaj also tore up a witty verse in Young Money’s debut single, “Bedrock,” in 2009.

After being recognized as an emcee in Young Money, Minaj hopped on board a couple dozen more projects.

Minaj was fiercely featured in Ludacris’s “Bad Chick,” Fabulous’s “For The Money,” Bobby Valentino’s “Stilettos and T-Shirt” and Usher’s “Lil Freak”.

Minaj has also claimed the title of The Underground Music Awards’s female artist of the year.

“Nicki’s cool because she’s hardcore and stands out amongst the female rappers of today,” senior Allison Awerkamp said.

After taking the rap industry by storm, Minaj is now in the studio recording her first album that is expected to drop in summer 2010.

For a Nicki Minaj experience, check out her 2009 mixtape, “Beam Me Up Scotty.”   

BY ALEXIS HARDYfeatures@othsprowler.com

Ben Folds rocks at Chaifetz Minaj proves women can rap

ALL PHOTOS BY ANTHONY BAILEY

11SPORTSMAY 7, 2010

Baseball seeks winning season, StateThe baseball Panthers have set goals this

season to improve upon certain skills and techniques, and to try to further their chances of going all the way to State once again.

“Our goals are to improve each day as individual players and to grow and come together as a team,” Coach Jason Portz said.

Coach Portz said he is proud of his team’s success this season.

“They have played very well and most significantly with the conference. Our victories over Granite City, Belleville East and Edwardsville were significant wins for our team,” he said.

The team won 2-0 against Granite City, and 6-3 against Belleville East.

In their most significant game to date, they crushed Edwardsville 13-1.

After four and a half innings at Blazier Field against Edwardsville on April 6, the game was called because of the 10-run rule.

On Friday, April 16, the team played Highland in the Pitch for the Cure game, with O’Fallon winning the game 13-3.

On April 17, the team played at Busch Stadium against Hillsboro. The team was supposed to start their game at 7 p.m. after the Cardinals played, but the Cardinals played 20 innings that evening in an eventual 2-1 loss. So, the Panthers didn’t take the field until almost 11 p.m.

Even though O’Fallon lost 4-2, it was a fun experience. “We were all so tired

sitting in the basement of Busch. But once we stepped out on the field we got a huge adrenaline rush, and it was the most amazing experience ever,” junior Cody Seeberger said.

O’Fallon is seeking another win over the Tigers this afternoon, playing at Edwardsville.

“Our goals are to improve each day as individual players and to grow and come

together as a team.”-Coach Jason Portz

Senior Cal Stierwalt prepares for the pitch during the March 27 home game against Lincoln. The boys lost that game, 4-3, but currently hold an overall 14-8 record and are at the top of the SWC at 8-1.

TYLER KLAUS

Third baseman sophomore Lauren Marlinghaus and first baseman Michelle Craddick look on as freshman Taylor Bowlby winds up. The Panthers played the East St. Louis Flyers on April 20 at the O’Fallon Community Park, winning 23-0.

ANTHONY BAILEY

Panthers off to solid startSoftball currently 16-5, ranked 16th in Class 4A

Sophomore Brooke Reed slides the ball past the Mt. Vernon goalkeeper on April 20. The girls defeated the Rams 11-0.

TYLER KLAUS

Lady Panthers atop SWCSoccer in midst of one of school’s best seasons

The girls’ softball team hit the season off with a great start and now stands 16-5 with plenty of the season remaining.

So far, the team has played the season well with a few stand-out members.

S e n i o r c e n t e r f i e l d e r Dagmar Ralphs, junior catcher Lauren Smith, have shown to be outstanding team players with impressive results.

“[Lauren Smith] hits the ball harder than anyone I’ve ever seen,” Assistant Coach Ashlee Heady said.

Smith has 11 home runs and 40 RBI so far this season.

“She gets up there and makes hitting look effortless,” Coach Heady said.

While the season is just getting started, the team feels like it’s going to be better than the last.

“I was excited to play against our long-time rival, because we split with them in conference play and they always proved to be a good game,” first basemam junior Michelle Craddick said.

The team won all but one of their conference games, which was against their conference rival, the Edwardsville Tigers.

The team lost 15-5, but managed to learn something from the result.

“We learned to pay attention to detail and focus more everytime we were at bat,” Craddick said.

On April 29, the Lady Panthers continued their

SWC schedule with a game against Belleville East. Smith hit a grand slam and finished with 5 RBI to lead the Panthers to the 6-2 victory.

“We played really well as a team, and it was all around a really good game,” Smith said.

With a strong lineup and three more opportunities to face Edwardsville, the team has a great chance for postseason success.

“We played really well as a team [against

Belleville East]. It was all around a really

good game.”-Lauren Smith, junior

BY JAKE HAMILTONsports@othsprowler.com

BY TESSA DOCKINSsports@othsprowler.com

Neither a tough conference schedule nor a key injury can slow down this year’s girls’ soccer team.

As of press time, the Lady Panthers held an impressive 10-2-1 record with a 3-0-1 mark in Southwestern Conference play.

After a 5-0 loss in the season opener to Althoff, the girls went on an 8-0-1 streak to vault the team into first place in the SWC.

On March 30, the girls opened their conference schedule with a convincing 4-1 win over Alton.

Later that week, they traveled back to Gordon Moore Park to take on Alton Marquette. The Lady Panthers defeated the Explorers 2-0 behind a solid defensive effort.

In their next game, the girls played Granite City in a big SWC matchup. After trailing most of the game, the Lady Panthers scored two goals in the final minute to secure a 2-2 tie.

After reeling off three consecutive wins over Carbondale, Chatham and Collinsville, the team hosted conference foe Belleville East on April 15. The girls needed extra time to settle the score, and eventually won the game 2-1.

Head Coach Craig Dippel considers these two matches as the most significant games so

far this season.“Both games the girls showed a lot of heart

and determination and both results brought us closer together as a team,” Coach Dippel said.

On April 17, the girls traveled to Gibault High School to take on the Hawks. The Lady Panthers put together one of their most complete games in the 7-0 dismantling of Gibault.

However, the loss of a key player far outweighed the result. The team lost starting goalkeeper Alaina Bauer for the season due to serious injury.

“I collided with a girl head on. We were both running full speed and we didn’t slow down,” Bauer said of the play that ended her season.

All in all, Bauer broke five bones in her face and tore her ACL, sidelining her for at least nine months.

Bauer’s replacement, freshman Hannah Poteet, has performed well. Poteet has only conceded one goal in four starts.

“Filling in for Alaina is a tough job, but Hannah has definitely proven she can play at the varsity level,” Coach Dippel said.

On April 26, Ursuline snapped the team’s nine game unbeaten streak by downing the Lady Panthers 1-0.

This week, the Lady Panthers hosted Belleville West and traveled to Columbia. They have two regular season games remaining.

BY JOHN DAVISsports@othsprowler.com

12 SPORTS MAY 7, 2010

Lax teams play tough Boys, girls track prepare for strenuous postseason run

There is no State tournament for girls lacrosse, but that does not stop the girls’ varsity lacrosse team from trying their very best.

Coach Doug Riddle has higher hopes this season to set a better record.

“They are stronger this season because they play more as a team, and everyone contributes,” Coach Riddle said.

This season has been interesting so far and will probably only get more entertaining the mores they play.

“This season has been the best because we work harder and better together as a team,” junior Alma Stuhldreher said.

On April 13, the team played Rockwood Summit and won 13-9. They played them once again at Visitation on April 15 and beat them 14-7.

“Our most significant game was against Rockwood Summit because it signaled the turn around for the team,” Coach Riddle said.

The boys’ varsity lacrosse team started with a difficult schedule this season, but have now settled into a groove.

Coach Jim McIntyre likes the way the team is playing. Although he does not know all about the top Chicago teams, it is definitely a realistic possibility they will compete for the championship cup come June.

“As expected, each year [they] have improved, but this year is different. They are playing with passion and some serious swagger. They work hard every second, and are definitely focused on the task at hand,” Coach McIntyre said.

Along with the coach, senior Tevin Johnson believes their team is better this year.

“We are finally starting to play together, and because of that, we are winning more and more games,” Johnson said.

The team has 15 seniors, many of which have been on the team since its creation in 2008. Their leadership, coupled with their will to never give up, means this season they expect to win the close ones.

“Last home game, we had a big group of students cheering us on. It definitely pumped up the team and sparked them to a 15-4 victory over Kirkwood. The more fans at each game, the faster and harder we play. Thanks to the OTHS fans,” Coach McIntyre said.

Senior Rico Brooks hands the baton off to senior Jose Mendez during the April 2 meet. ANTHONY BAILEY

The girls’ lacrosse team huddles after a time out during their game verses Parkway North. On April 20, the team defeated Parkway North 18-6. They are currently 11-3 this season.

TYLER KLAUS

This year’s girls’ and boys’ track team has put in a great effort so far.

“A lot of people want to work hard and succeed. We all work hard and push each other during practice,” senior Michelle Lay said.

The team practices every day after school for about two hours.

“Practices can be hard, especially over-distance practices. They are harder than most practices are, but we all push each other and give encouragement,” Lay said.

The team has been successful at many meets, including the Annie Invitational on April 9, the home meet against Centralia on April 16 and the St. Clair County meet on April 28.

In the Annie Invitational, the girls took first out of 13 teams. The girls who took first place in

their races were junior Haley Holton who tied the meet record in pole vaulting, junior Sarah Johnson in the 3200, senior Hilary Conrad in the 400 and sophomore Brook Hall in the 200. The 4x800 and the 4x400 relay teams also placed first.

The girls also won a triangular meet against Belleville West and Granite City and a triangular meet against Mt. Vernon and Mascoutah.

Today they will be running at Conference, and will be running again on May 15 at Sectionals.

As for boys’ track and field, there are currently 75 young men on the team.

They have entered the invitational portion of the season and will run in big meets every weekend for the rest of the year.

Currently, hopes are running high that the

team will continue to perform well in the weeks to come.

“The team continues to work toward our goals of winning the conference and qualifying as many athletes as possible for the State meet at the end of the year,” Coach Ron Koch said.

BY KATY MANESSsports@othsprowler.com

For 12 years, senior Nick Fleming has been dominating the tennis courts.

Fleming has been on the varsity team all four of his years here at OTHS, and with his talent on the court, it is no mystery as to why he is currently a team captain.

While he practices hard during the tennis season, he also works hard on off season too practicing three to four times a week and participating in as many tournaments as possible.

“I’m going to St. Louis University for college,” Fleming said. “Right now I’m not sure if I’m going to be playing at SLU or not; but I’ll always enjoy playing occasionally after high school.”

And though tennis can be considered a calm sport, he contends the pressure is intense.

“I love having all the pressure on me. It can be more difficult at times, but I find it more enjoyable to find a way through difficult matches,” Fleming said.

Senior Miles Quintal has been playing baseball since he was 5.

“My dad and older brothers got me started with baseball. We’d play all the time in my backyard, and my dad would help me pitch. I’ve loved playing the game my whole life,” Quintal said.

Because of his experience on the field, this senior does not let anyone stand in his way.

“Never let somebody tell you that you’re not good enough or [you] cannot achieve success,” Quintal said.

Quintal was placed on the freshmen baseball team at the beginning of his OTHS career, but after only a couple games, he was moved up to varsity.

So far, Quintal has been talking with mainly junior colleges about playing baseball. He hopes by playing baseball for them, he can get two years of school paid for and then move on to a Division I team.

Since the age of 5, senior Dagmar Ralphs has been swinging away on the softball field.

This year will be her fourth year on varsity, having played two years of varsity softball for her high school in Virginia and continuing when she moved here her junior year.

As a child, Ralphs says her family has influenced her love of the game.

“My family has always been a softball/baseball family, so I guess it just stemmed from that,” Ralphs said.

Outside of school, she keeps busy playing for the 18U Gold Midland Magic tournament team.

Ralphs will be attending the University of Maine, where she will play softball in the spring.

When asked the best thing about her sport, Ralphs answered solidly.

“I love being able to create lasting friendships with all the girls on the team. They become more like family rather than just girls I play softball with in the spring.”

Senior Ali Schmidt has been on the OTHS lacrosse team since it formed in 2008.

This fall, Schmidt will be attending Mizzou, but she does not plan on continuing much with lacrosse after high school.

“I might play it as a club sport and hopefully give lessons at the park this summer,” Schmidt said.

When asked her favorite thing about her sport, she said that she enjoyed that the whole team is friends.

“We are all friends on the team, so it makes practice fun, and its cool since everyone is really into succeeding.”

As for advice for the students of OTHS she said, “Get involved with sports, especially lacrosse. It’s a great sport that keeps you in shape and it’s pretty intense.”

Nick Fleming Miles Quintal Dagmar Ralphs Ali Schmidt

PROFILES BY CAITLYN COON

S P R I N G A T H L E T E P R O F I L E S

“ We all work hard and push each other during

practice.”-Michelle Lay, senior

PHOTOS BY CAITLYN COON AND JOHN DAVIS

BY TESSA DOCKINSsports@othsprowler.com

Boys’ Cross Country• Placed 18th at State Meet• Sectional Meet Champions• Regional Meet Champions• SWC Champions• St. Clair County Meet Champions• Michael Scolarici- ITCCCA Runner of

the Year, 1st Team All State, 1st Team All SWC, finished 7th at State

• Connor Ryan- 1st Team All SWC• Alex Riba- 1st Team All SWC• Craig Munie- 1st Team All SWC• Jake Slaughter- 1st Team All SWC• Jose Mendez- 2nd Team All SWC• Nicholai Sarpy- 2nd Team All SWC

Football• Finished with an 8-4 record• Lost to East St. Louis in the Class 7A

Quarterfinals• De’Ron Flood- TE, 1st Team All State, 1st

Team All SWC• Justin Meyers- G, 1st Team All SWC• Carlos Beverly- T, 1st Team All SWC• BJ Hendrix- RB, 1st Team All SWC• Dionte Sullivan- WR, 1st Team All SWC• Kurt Rosenbaum- K, 1st Team All SWC• Ben Benton- LB, 1st Team All SWC• Tivon Taylor- DL, 1st Team All SWC• John Bouquet- DL, 1st Team All SWC; P,

2nd Team All SWC• David McDaniel- DB, 1st Team All SWC• Erin Lewis- RB, 2nd Team All SWC• Chevaughn Lawrence- WR, 3rd Team All

SWC• Jon Lavalle- LB, 3rd Team All SWC

Boys’ Golf• Finished with a 3-4 conference record• Sam Summerlin- 2nd Team All SWC

Boys’ Soccer• Finished with a 17-4 record• Lost to Edwardsville at Sectionals• Set a school record for least number of

goals allowed in a season• Conor Knox- All State, 1st Team All SWC• Sean Blumberg- All Midwest Team, All

State Team, 1st Team All SWC, BND Player of the Year

• Tyler Wobbe- All Sectional Team, 1st Team All SWC

• Cale Ward- All Sectional Team, 2nd Team All SWC

• David Cole- All Sectional Honorable Mention, 2nd Team All SWC

• Jacob Slaby- 3rd Team All SWC• Sean Schwarz- 3rd Team All SWC• Coach Jason Turkington- Runner up for

Illinois Coach of the Year

Girls’ Cross Country• Placed 19th at State Meet• 2nd place at Sectional Meet• Regional Meet Champions• SWC Champions• Sarah Johnson- 1st Team All SWC• Kaylee Schmitz- 1st Team All SWC• Bridgette Wilson- 1st Team All SWC• Chelsea Hendrix- 2nd Team All SWC• Sarah Russel- 2nd Team All SWC

Girls’ Golf• Finished with a 4-2 record• Katie Milleville- 1st Team All SWC• Brittney Bateman- 2nd Team All SWC• Tyler Huth- 2nd Team All SWC• Johni Hegger- 3rd Team All SWC

Girls’ Volleyball• Finished with a 28-10-1 record• Won first Regional Championship in 17

years• Emma Goldschmidt- Academic All

American, Honorable Mention All American, 2nd Team All State, 1st Team All SWC

• Katie Roustio- Special Mention All State, 1st Team All SWC

• Meredith Mueller- 2nd Team All SWC

Boys’ Basketball

• Finished with a 30-4 record,• Took 4th place at State• Set a new school record for wins in a

season• Won both the Tournament of Champions

and the Belleville East Tournament• Lost to Cahokia in the championship

game of the Centralia Tournament• Roosevelt Jones- IBCA 1st Team All State,

1st Team All SWC, BND Player of the Year

• Shane Watson- 2nd Team All SWC• Charles Joy- 3rd Team All SWC• Chevaughn Lawrence- 3rd Team All SWC• Coach Rick Gibson- Illinois Basketball

Coaches Association Coach of the Year

Girls’ Basketball• Finished with a 15-15 record• Beat Belleville West in Regionals, lost to

East St. Louis in Regional Championship• Taylor Klingelhoefer- 1st Team All SWC• Stephanie Copelin- 2nd Team All SWC• Katie Roustio- 3rd Team All SWC

Girls’ Bowling• Finished with a 9-5-1 record• Natalie Goodman- 8th place at State, 1st

Team All SWC• Melissa Mecagni- 2nd Team All SWC

Wrestling• Finished with a 14-8 record• Keith Surber (130 weight class)- Won

Senior National Championship, 1st place at State, 1st Team All SWC

• Marty Ercoline (171 weight class)- State qualifier, 1st Team All SWC

• Courtland Rautio (112 weight class)- 2nd Team All SWC

• Ryan Hesse (215 weight class)- 3rd Team All SWC

Cheerleading• Took 2nd place at the WCA National

Championship• Placed 7th at IHSA Sectionals despite

earning a 9.0 out of a possible 10

Golden Girls1st at State in AAA Pom/Dance, 2nd in AAA Dance, 3rd in AAA Hip-Hop

Boys’ Bowling• Finished with a 7-7 record• The team took 2nd place at Sectionals to

qualify for the State Tournament• Abe Lincoln Tournament Champions• Kenan Lowry- Placed 29th at State, 2nd

Team All SWC, bowled a perfect game on Dec. 1 against Belleville West

• Tommy Frost- Placed 44th at State

Girls’ Tennis• Finished with a 1-6 record• Elaine Quitos- 2nd Team All SWC• Anjali Shekar/Maggie Fleming- 2nd Team

All SWC (doubles)• Melissa Hauser- 3rd Team All SWC

13SPORTSMAY 7, 2010

OTHS will host various sports camps this summer. Online registration and credit card payment are available as a time saving option. Please check out www.oths.k12.il.us/sports for

more information about and to register online.

BasketballBowlingCheerleading Cross CountryDance

GolfLacrosseSoccerSoftball TennisVolleyball

Baseball Basketball Bowling Cheerleading Cross Country Football

Golf Lacrosse Soccer Tennis Volleyball Wrestling

GIRLS CAMPS BOYS CAMPS

OTHS Summer Camps

Surber cannot be beatenO’Fallon wrestler wins Senior National ChampionshipBY JOHN DAVISsports@othsprowler.com

Panther sports teams break records, make memories

COMPILED BY JOHN DAVIS

Apparently, a state championship was not enough for senior Keith Surber.

On March 27-28, Surber competed in the prestigious National Wrestling Championships, held in Virginia Beach, Va. Surber won all five of his matches to capture the Senior National Championship in the 130 weight class.

In his first two matches, Surber defeated state medalists from New Jersey and Pennsylvania by a combined score of 30-3.

In his next match, Surber dominated Chad Strube, a two time Maryland State Champion.

After defeating Strube 10-1, Surber advanced to the semifinals to take on Louis Trajillo, one of

the most decorated wrestlers in the tournament.Trajillo, a four time New Mexico State

Champion, was ranked second in the country coming in to the tournament. He, too, lost to Surber.

In the championship match, Surber defeated Levi Wolfensperger 5-3 to claim the Senior National Championship. Wolfensperger was voted the Outstanding Junior Wrestler in last year’s National Championship and had a career record of 170-4.

Surber finishes his high school career as the best wrestler to walk the halls of OTHS.

When asked if he had any words of advice to underclassmen wrestlers, Surber said, “Keep training hard and do off-season wrestling. It’s a huge step.”

14 SPORTS MAY 7, 2010

The Sports Medicine Club held its second annual 5K race on Saturday, April 17.   The race started at 8:30 a.m. in the Weber parking lot at the OTHS Smiley campus. 

The weather was sunny with a nice, cool breeze - perfect for running.   There were 104 people from the O’Fallon community and the surrounding areas who came out to participate.  Participants ranged in age from 14 and under to over 55; most finished within an hour.

At the finish line were supporting families and the club’s booth, run by club members senior Ali Schmidt, junior Alma Stuhldreher and freshmen Alexa Owens and Tristen Boots.  They handed out water, gatorade and nutritional snacks such as fruit and whole

grain bars to the runners as they finished.  The club’s sponsor, Mr. Tim Casey, said, “We

did this to raise awareness of living a healthier lifestyle for the community, and also for Haiti Relief.”

The race raised $1,100, which will be split between Haiti Relief and the club.   The money comes from the race registrations and donations.

Patrick Oster, an eighth grader from Belleville, said he came out to practice for high school track and because he liked that the club was donating some of the money to Haiti.  

“I ran the course in 21:22; that’s my best time yet,” Oster said.  

He placed first in the 14 and under age group and sixth overall.

Medals were given out to the top three finishers in each age group and the top three overall finishers. For a list of winners see  www.runningstartsports.com.

Senior Nick Fleming hits his way to victory on April 20. He defeated Ty Skaer, the best player from Belleville East, 6-3, 6-1.

TYLER KLAUS

Senior Daniel Schachner sets the ball on Bayless Senior High School. On April 22, O’Fallon defeated Bayless 25-11, 25-15.

TYLER KLAUS

On April 17, two kids run in the 5K race to help support the Sports Medicine Club for awareness of living a healthier life and Haiti Relief. 104 participants took to the streets for a good cause.

ANTHONY BAILEY

Tennis knows how to bring the heat

Panthers remain undefeated in conference play

Get Fit, Stay Fit 5K run

BY JENNIFER BAILEYsports@othsprowler.com

Embracing the hot asphalt court with a hunger to win, the boys’ tennis team plays with passion.

Although its level of intensity is, at times, overlooked, tennis is nothing short of vigorous.

With heavy drilling, playing and running, intense practices undeniably prepare the team for victory.

On Saturday, April 17, the team competed in Decatur’s Doubles Tournament, or what senior captain Michael Sullivan defines as the most intense match of the season.

“Nick Fleming and I ran into two foreign exchange students from Bolivia. We lost the first set... but fought back and won the next one 6-3...[it] was intense because everybody and their brothers were watching us,” Sullivan said.

O’Fallon came in second place to Champaign Centennial.

Fleming also felt as though the tournament was a personal highlight.

“My doubles partner and I played the best we ever have and almost won an upset over one of

the best teams in the state,” Fleming said.So when Tuesday, April 20 rolled around

O’Fallon was ready to bring the heat once again and toppled over Belleville East with a collective score of 6-3 in the Southwestern Conference Match.

The previously mentioned win proved to be extremely rewarding because of the shared rivalry between the competing schools.

However, it is only friendly competition.“They are just so close to us, and we train

with each other during the off-season, but when I get on the court, anybody that is not on my team is my rival,” Sullivan said.

In singles senior captain Nick Fleming competed against East’s top ranked player and won both sets 6-3, 6-1.

“I felt really good about the win. Our conference this year is loaded with great players, so building up as many wins as I can is very important,” Fleming said.

“Overall on the victory, I think our team definitely needed it. We started out with a rough start and are finally building confidence with each match we play.”

Although each match poses a new challenge for the boys, they play with a desire to win and are steadily improving throughout the season.

Currently, the boys sit at 16-2 record this season and are 7-0 in conference play.

While Coach Tim Gagen is proud of the boys’ performance, he does not want the boys to get complacent. He believes, with some improvement, the team can go far this year.

“If we can keep improving little by little, we have a chance to make it to the Elite Eight in Chicago,” Coach Gagen said.

The team’s performance can be accredited to their dedication at practices and excellent teamwork. The seniors have excelled in their leadership skills and have taken ownership of the team.

On Wednesday, April 21, the Panthers beat the Lancers 21-15, 21-19.

According to Coach Gagen, beating Belleville East was one of the highlights of the season so far, as Belleville East was considered the “team to beat.”

“O’Fallon did a great job. It wasn’t because we had a different lineup. O’Fallon just flat out

beat us. They did a great job of running their offense

so well, they passed the ball much better than they did two weeks ago, and when that happens, it opens up your offense. They just have so many weapons across the front line,” said the Belleville East coach Joe Nesbit on bnd.com.

Not only did they beat the Lancers, but the team also defeated the Edwardsville Tigers 25-19, 25-22.

With the wins over their rivals, Coach Gagen considers O’Fallon the new “team to beat.”

The team is working hard to achieve their two goals this year.

Their first goal is to win Conference for the second year in a row and qualify for regionals.

The team’s other goal is to win Regionals and make a return trip to Chicago.

However, before the team makes a deep run into the IHSA playoffs, it must first succeed in the Regional games against Edwardsville and Belleville East.

Coach Gagen says the boys are looking forward to the challenge at regionals and are continuing to work hard.

BY JENNIFER BAILEY & CHAD BARTHOLOMEWsports@othsprowler.com

Fitness race raises $1,100 for Haiti relief, club

‘Great teamwork’ helps boys’ volleyball defeat conference rival Belleville East 21-15, 21-19

BY ASHLEIGH JACKSONsports@othsprowler.com

“We did this to raise awareness of living a healthier lifestyle for the community, and also for Haiti Relief.”

-Mr. Tim Casey

15SENIORSMAY 7, 2010

BEST OF LUCK, SENIORS!

Carey Adam, Lyndsey Adams, Sean Akbani, Connor Alexander, Amy Althardt, Brandon Alvis, Emily Amesquita, Jonathan Anderson, Nikia Anderson, Captoria Anglin, Zachery Angus, Shannon Arbogast, Aryk Arington, Margaret Armstrong, William Armstrong, Nicholas Armstrong, Katlyn Ates, Allison Awerkamp, Jennifer Bailey, Alysia Baines, Shelby Bajorek, Alexus Baker, Benjamin Baldwin, Dominique Bal’lance-Wiechman, Mariah Baltzell, Youngbin Bandy, Jacob Banks, Timothy Barker, Robert Barr, Chad Bartholomew, Molly Barton, Brittney Bateman, DeMarco Baxtron, Linda Baynes, Jacki Beal, Kimberly Beam, Joshua Beasley, Aharon Beavers, Michael Bellina, Arthur Benfield, Benjamin Bennett, Ben Benton, Kiara Benton, Robert Berger, John Betten III, Sarah Bevineau, Jacob Beyer, Sean Blumberg, Tyler Boismenue, Justin Bonds, Briona Bons, Madalyn Borchers, Nathan Bossart, Brittany Bosse, John Bouquet, Katherine Bowman, Kamille Boyd, Ashley Boyles, David Bozeman Jr., Anna Bradley, Blair Branch, William Brann, Kathryn Brasel, Emily Brees, Andrea Breiter, Maia Bridges, Alexandria Briere, Adera Brooks, Erik Brooks, Jr., Ricardo Brooks, Darryl Brown, Dejha Brown, Kaitlin Brown, Jonathan Brune, Samuel Brush, Natalie Buch, Shannon Buchanan, Alex Buehne, Dalton Buettner, Jonathan Buie, Joel Bundt, Austin Bundt, Samantha Burgess, Gavin Burton, Kyle Burton, Robert Buskirk, IV, Chelsea Butler, Jeremy Cain, Evan Caldwell, Colin Campbell, Mary Cariker, Trevian Carlisle, Bo Carroll, Hunter Carson, Joshua Carson, Danielle Carter, Abigail Carter-Parker, Alexandra Casconi, Samuel Cassidy, Nicolas Catenazzo, Alexander Chaffee, Emma Chapman, Rachel Chapman, Brittany Charlebois, Kevin Chatman, Jr., Timothy Chavous, Brandon Churchill, Phillip Clay, Jessica Clear, Caitlin Clendenin, Kevin Collins, Samantha Collins, Nathan Collins, Glenn Connor, Hilary Conrad, Hillary Cook, Josiah Cook, Danielle Cooper, Brittany Cooper, Stephanie Copelin, Brianna Cornell, Jennifer Cornwall, Vincent Cortez, Nicholas Costantino, Vosker Cowans III, Shannon Cunningham, Lacey Curlee, Paris Cyrus, Brandon Daniels, Dominique Davenport, Joven David, Cody Davis, Heather Davis, John Davis Jr., Natasha Davis, Adam Davis, Stephen Dean, Kayla Decker, Megan Dice, Nicholas Diessner, Claire Distler, Leann Dixon, Tessa Dockins, Joshua Doil, Dylan Donald, Christian Dorcy, Kayla Doughty, Kimberly Douglas, Valerie Douglas, Easton Dowdy, Joseph Duane, John Duarte, Geoffrey Dudley II, Anaya Duncan, Alexandria Dunnells, Cosette Dwyer,

Krista Dzengolewski, Michael Edwards Jr., Isaac Eickmeier, Jennifer Eiermann, Auhston Elleby, Colby Ellerbusch, Brittany Emmerich, Kelly Emmons, Martin Ercoline IV, Zachary Ettling, Loryn Evans, Lyndsey Evans, Nicholas Evgenides, Zachary Fay, Andrew Feary, Jessica Felker, Myrycale Fennoy-Vickers, Andrew Fisher, Jocelyn Fiske, Kevin Flaiz, Nicholas Fleming, Kyle Fletcher, DeRon Flood, Amanda Floyd, Natasha Foggy, David Ford, Ally Fore, Levi Foreman, Dana Foster, Erica Freeman, Jessamy Fries, Brent Fults II, Patrick Gagne, Victoria Gainor, Christopher Gamble, Devin Gamble, Talor Gannaway, Brandon Gardner, Julia Garrison, Anthony Gartney Jr., Haley Gefferth, Casey Gehrer, Andrew Gendron, Ashley Genovese, Cassandra Gherardini, Brianna Gilge, Nicole Gilkerson, Chelsea Gilstrap, Alex Glenn, Phillip Glennon, Alyssa Glover, Ralicia Goble-Hawkins, Emma Goldschmidt, Victoria Goodwin, Bradley Goolsby, Craig Gould, Brandon Grammer, Joshua Greene, Chelsea Grenham, Stephen Griffiths, Brister Grigsby V, Morgan Grinston, Shelby Grissom, Travis Grotsky, Alexander Gruberman, Stacy Guay, Jacquan Guion, Bayle Guskey, Nicholas Haegele, Dakota Haerter, Mary Hagarty, Jeremy Hall, Paige Haller, Nicole Halpin, Brian Ham, Tyler Hambidge, Lauren Hamm, Hailey

Hamner, Emily Hampshire, Hyelee Han, Alexis Hardy, Adam Harrel, Sara Harrier, Elizabeth Hart, Melissa Hauser, Lindsey Haverkamp, Jacob Haydock,

Andrew Helfer, Brittany Helms, Lora Hemmerle, Corey Hendershot, Barry Hendrix Jr., Casandra Hernandez, Ryan Hesse, Deveon Hicks, Codi Hill, Katelyn Hippen-Smith, Melissa Hipskind, Patrick Hoctor, Jessica Holland, Steven Hollenkamp, Jordan Holley, Brian Holmes, Alexandra Hookway, Christopher Hoots, Laura Hudkins, Tyler Huffman, Abigail Hughes, Eric Hughes, Stefanie Hughes, Lauren Hurst, Anna Husemann, Cody Hutchison, Tyler Huth, Olivia Hyatt, Amie Ingram, Ashleigh Jackson, Braiontis Jackson, Brittanie Jackson, Kevin Jackson, Lynesha Jackson, Darien Jacobs, Christopher James, Amirah James, Paris Jenkins, Joseph Johno IV, Brandon Johnson, Sage Johnson, Tevin Johnson, William Johnston, Dominic Jones, Dustin Jones, Kevin Jones, Courtney Jordan, Heidi Jorgensen, Aneesh Joseph, Stephanie Jozwiak, Nicholas Kadonsky, Joshua Kaemmerer, Patrick Karrigan, Tyler Kasper, Dan Kazanas III, Emily Kelly, Keltron Kelly, Jessica Kemp, Sean Kennedy, Alexander King, Tyler Klingelhoefer, Ashley Klopfenstein, Daniel Knight, Kenneth

Knoth Jr., Conor Knox, Elliott Koehl, Zachary Kordecki, Connor Kowalski, Angela Kramer, Michael Krueger, Mark Kurtz Jr., Yvette Kwaku, Christopher LaChance, Nicole Lambert, John Lampe, Kaitlin Lane, Richard Laney II, Jonathan Lavalle, Caitlin Laverdure, Chevaughn Lawrence, David Lawson Jr., Michelle Lay, Lauren Ledington, Jung Hun Lee, Bria Lee, Casandra LeGault-Venhaus, Kaitlyn Lenkeit, Zachary LePere, Ashley Lester, Eric Levin, Erin Lewis, Diana Lezama, Tanner Libbra, Rebecca Lindley, Brittany Lipe, Adrienne Logan, Michael Logan Jr., Adam Loreck, Kenan Lowry, Alaina Lukavsky, Jonathan Lustig, Michael Lustig, Deja Mack, Tarryn Maddox, Nicholas Mahan, Matthew Maki, Kenneth Maness, Ryan Manns, Spencer Marchesano, Gregory Marks, Tyler Marler, Donovan Marsh, Matthew Marshall, Sean Marshall, Derek Martin, Ashley Matheis, Kyle Matzka, Quiandez McAfee, Robin McAllister, Matthew McBride, Meghan McCarthy, Christina McClane, Brandon McConnell, Melody McCoy, Erik McCullough, David McDaniel, Nicholas McDaniel, Andrew McDonald, Dennis McFadden III, Vanesha McGee, Daniel McGinthy, Berlyn McKinney, Kyla McKinney, Tyler McKinney, Iain McKinstry, Taylor McKinstry, Sarah McNease, Marcus McWhorter, Melissa Mecagni, Tania Medina Saenz, Joshua Meidel, Jose Mendez, Shayla Merritt, Justin Meyers, Craig Miles, Justin Miller, Blaine Milton, Katrina Modesto, Andrew Moore, Jeremy Moore, Katherine Morris, Daniel Morse, Rebecca Mosby, Cory Mosley, Hayley Motowski, Stephen Mruzik, Meredith Mueller, Matthew Mueller, Jacob Mulrenin, Sarah Musser, Joshua Neal, Amanda Nelson, Meaghan Nelson, Kaitlyn Newcomb, Mariah Newsom, Kha Nguyen, Jude Nibo Jr., Melinda Nicholson, Anne Nikola, Sean Nipper, JaMaia Nixon, Kasandra Noble, Michael Nolan, Taylor Noles, Alec Ogburn, Bryan Ohlendorf, Christopher Ohlendorf, Alyssa Oitker, Natalie Ott, Sean Ouchie, Bailey Owens, Jordyn Owens, Evan Paeth, Heather Palmer, Timothy Park, Felicia Parker, Makenzie Parks, Victoria Pasley, Jai Patel, Tyler Patterson, Tyran Payne, Troy Peck, Brittany Perkins, Alonzo Pettiford Jr., Janelle Pfeifer, George Phillips, Jonathan Pieper, Joshua Pilger, Geffory Plomedahl, Kelsey Poelker, Nathan Poignee, Maxwell Polley, Kaitlin Portz, Brenna Prindable, Dalton Puhl, Miles Quintal, Elaine Quitos, Dagmar Ralphs, Rachel Rambo, Mitchell Ramirez, Sequeya Ramsey, Albert Randle, Alishia Randle, Devon Ras, Ailissa Ratermann,

Courtland Rautio, Sarah Rautio, Krystin Recuero, Bradley Reed, Sarah Reinert, Ryan Reinier, Taylor Reno, Julianne Reynolds, Dakota Rhyne, Austin Riba, Ashley Rice, Rashad Richardson, Jennie Ridgley, Lyndsay Rieder, Bret Riley, Matthew Robbins, Kelly Roberson, Justin Roberts, Austin Robertson, Jeremy Rockett, Allan Rodriguez-Sanchez, Lauren Rolek, Danielle Rolla, Kristin Rolla, Madeline Ross, Sarah Rutledge, Daniel Ryan, Abdul-Rahman Salama, Bianca Santos, Michael Sasiela, Nicole Saunders, Daniel Schachner, Alexis Schaller, Joseph Schilling, Alexandra Schmidt, Edward Schmidt, Karen Schwarz, Sean Schwarz, Carla Scott, Darius Scott, Sean Scott, James Sears, John Sears, Amanda Sebesta, Kyle Settlemoir, Joseph

Shaffer, Amanda Sharps, Grace Shartzer, Brent Sheedy, Sarah

Sheesley, Amber Shepherd, Kenneth Sheppard Jr., Stephanie, Shewmaker,

Michelle Shouldis, Brittany Simmons, Jamaal Simmons, Jeffrey Simone, Alex Simons, Tyler Simunich, Kourtney Sinskey, Jacob Slaby, Alyssa Smith, Haley Smith, Christopher Sobrino, Mikael Son, Kristina Souser, Trevion Spearman, Cateana Spells, Ronald Spencer III, Katherine Stanton, Christopher Stapchuk, Maliek Staples, Kaitlin Statz, Caldwell Stierwalt, Jennifer Stroot, Jessica Su, Dionte Sullivan, Michael Sullivan, Jennifer Sumida, Keith Surber, Sean Surber, Justin Swatloski, Tara Sweeney, Lisa Swezey, Chelsea Switts, Brett Tady, Camiyha Tally, Chynna Tame, Tivon Taylor, Michael Teague, Alexandria Tegel, Bryan Temple, Annemarie Terveer, Carlton Thomas, Emilyanne Thomas, Caitlyn Thompson, Candace Thompson, Kurtis Thompson, LaDre Thurmon, Ashley Tickle, Jmaury Timberson, Dylan Trebilcock, Alyssa Trelow, Emily Trelow, Jesse Trent, Emily Turk, Christian Ugaban, Benjamin Unpingco, Devin Valmores, Lindsay Van Schoyck, Allison Vazquez, Desirea Vines, Tiffannie Vinson, Ashley Wallace, Kimberly Walls, Christina Ward, David Ware, Rashad Watkins, Shane Watson, Kayleigh Webb, Rebecca Weber, Justin Welker, Kayla Werner, Cassandra Whalen, Alexandra White, Misty White, William White, Dylan White, Katrina Whitlow, Seth Wild, Connor Wiley, Corey Wills, Lauren Wilson, Nathaniel Wilson, Kyle Winkler, Victoria Wisely, Brandi Withrow, Tyler Wobbe, Joshua Wood, Danielle Woolridge, Kira Worthington, Jonathon Yates, Kelsey Yates, Ashley Ybarra, Jessica York, Alex Young, Joseph Young, Katie Young, Margaret Young, Alexandra Zeilman, Bradley Ziegler, Taylor Zimmerman

16 PHOTOS MAY 7, 2010

BY KIRA WORTHINGTONnews@othsprowler.com

O’Fallon goes ‘Cirque du Soleil’

OTHS students dance their prom night away. With so many students crowding the dance floor last year, the dance portion of Prom was hosted in the Regency Center’s front lobby so that the dinner tables would not have to be moved.

ADAM HARREL

On Saturday, May 1, decked-out seniors, juniors and guests squeezed into the Regency Conference Center of the Hilton Hotel for the second year in a row.

From conference center to circus ballroom, this year’s Prom committee made every attempt to turn an ordinary room into another reality. With crazy lights all over the place and strategically placed gold and red centerpieces, the committee really outdid themselves.

“The decorations were pretty cool, but I think that more from the theme could have been incorporated in the entertainment,” senior Eddie Schmidt said.

While some students fitted their formal gowns and tuxedoes to the fun inspired “Cirque du Soleil” theme, others went with a more glamorous approach. All in all, everyone looked their best, even after the stress of rushing for photo shoots with families, picking up dates and checking in before dinner.

At 7 p.m., the students had a carnival-styled dinner with variety and flavor, consisting of a hearty buffet meal of mini corn dogs, mini tacos, nachos, funnel cakes and Krispy Kreme doughnuts. For the main course, mixed green salad, mashed potatoes, corn, fried chicken, macaroni and cheese and ice cream were also available to them.

Throughout dinner, as the students socialized at their tables and among others, a man on stilts with a red umbrella and a juggler with a long string of tricks entertained the crowds.

“I liked the fact that the prom committee brought in entertainers that represented the theme and actually interacted with everyone,” junior Alexandra Geraldsen said.

When dinner ended at 8 p.m., the dancing began out in the lobby.

While the hardcore dancing was done from wall to wall in the front lobby, some students used the main area with the tables for dancing to slower music.

“Most people our parents’ age may not approve of how we dance, but it’s how we like to dance. They did moves that their parents didn’t like, so they shouldn’t judge,” senior Shelby Grissom said.

A D.J. from Night Magic Entertainment got the students wound up and out on the dance floor, starting with songs such “Poker Face” by Lady Gaga and “Thriller” by Michael Jackson.

The dancing was interrupted at 10 p.m. when emcees jumped in to announce the senior personalities.

Hosted by junior emcees Jaiden Bonapart and Erica Cain, the coronation kicked off with suspenseful gusto.

Alongside the sparkling crowns, seniors Drake Krueger and Emma Goldschmidt won the enviable titles of Prom King and Queen.

When the coronation ended, the room celebrated with more dancing until midnight.

Some students left the dance early, while others toughed it out until the very end.

From 12:30 a.m. to 5 a.m., St. Clair Bowl was filled with students for After Prom, an opportunity offered by the school to encourage a drug and alcohol free party.

ADAM HARREL

Junior Carolyn Joseph and senior Joven David.

Seniors Ben Benton and Jessie York show how much fun they are having on the dance floor at their final prom.

DAVID FORD

DAVID FORD

Juniors Alexandra Palacios and Brandon Fricke.Seniors Vincent Cortez and Hayley Motowski.

Senior John Lampe and sophomore Brooke Schenck.

Passing around glow stick bracelets and necklaces, several students ramp up the fun in their corner of the dance floor. Between the dimmed setting, the crazy, multicolored lights and the danceable music, they seemed to have fun.

Senior Maggie Armstrong finds herself surrounded by entertainment. Many students found themselves wobbling on chairs just to pose for pictures with the stilts walker, while others feared being attacked by the juggler’s props.

DAVID FORD