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2010-04-22T08:22:00.002-05:00

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Favorite quotes or scripture of Messmer students

2010-03-04T10:44:00.002-06:00

By Latanza Franklin, sophomore

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Messmer's favorite sports

2010-03-04T10:31:00.002-06:00

By Eduardo Castaneda, sophomore

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An artist among us: Ms. Jennifer Klecker

2010-03-03T08:14:00.002-06:00

By Sharmane Hughes, sophomore

Ms. Jennifer Klecker is a new art teacher here at Messmer. She teaches six classes including ceramics, art foundations, and painting and she is also involved with the fine arts night and the art club. She first began working here this year and first heard about Messmer through one of our teachers here at Messmer named Ms. Rachel Dobrauc.

Klecker attended Cardinal Stritch University and majored in Art Education as an undergrad. She’s also been pursuing a Master’s in Religious Studies.

Her main focus when looking for a school was to find a school where she could share her passion for art in a faith- based environment. Klecker also felt very welcomed by the students and staff that she met. The more she learned about the school, the more she wanted to be a part of its mission.

Her faith has always played a central role in her life. She’s very happy to be a part of a school community where faith is shared and integrated both inside and outside the classroom.

Recently, Klecker went on a trip to Italy. She went to lead a group of college students on pilgrimage. They went to Rome and Assisi to encounter the places and spirituality of St. Francis. The program is also very similar to the one that Messmer students participate in. With each group she goes with, she’s always surprised how the themes of St. Francis and St. Clare still pertain to the lives of young people today.

Klecker does look forward to returning to Messmer next year! Every morning, she gets to wake-up and it’s a great day, because she gets to create art with students!

She really likes that the Messmer community, is really a Messmer family. She believes that Messmer cares for all of its members. After being here a short time, she has discovered that no matter who you are, when there is loss or great joy, the Messmer family is here to support and celebrate with you; that means a lot.

She really wanted to add that this semester the painting classes are looking forward to working with guest artist, Zeph Farmby to create mural panels. The panels will eventually adorn the walls near the auditorium. She encourages students to watch the creative process unfold!

Wish all the art students luck as they work hard to achieve their goal. We are honored to have Ms. Klecker join our Messmer family!

Senator Kohl visits students via the Distance Learning Lab

2010-03-03T07:50:00.005-06:00

By Kamisha Harvey, sophomore

Senator Herb Kohl took time out of his day to talk to Messmer students in the Distance Learning Lab last week Wednesday. Once a year he wants to speak with students around the state to understand their views and thoughts. Messmer High School was one school that participated.

Senior Shameka Moore asked the Senator about health care not being passed. Kohl’s response was, “Today health care costs so much that it’s hard for people to pay. Since hospitals cost so much now, health care is taking money out of families pockets.”

Drunk driving laws and their enforcement was another topic of concern for Messmer students. Kohl responded that he feels no sympathy for those who hurt others through their own poor choices, especially driving drunk. He feels that Wisconsin is just as tough on drunk drivers as other states.

Another student from a local middle school asked, “Why are taxes so high compared to other states?” Kohl prompt response was that it’s up to state law makers and not federal policy.

Kohl provided some advice for to youth that deal with peer pressure on a daily basis. “They deal with peer pressure because they don’t stand up for themselves. If people stand up for what they believe in and stand up for themselves they can fight off the people that cause peer pressure,” states the Senator. The best way to deal with peer pressure is to just forget about that person and avoid them. Go the other way and don’t think about that person.

It was a great experience for students, and hopefully Messmer will be part of the panel next year as well. For the last two years students have also gotten to visit Senator Kohl's office in Washington DC. Students in the National Honor Society make a spring trip and experience all our Nation's capitol has to offer.

New computer teacher, Ms. Patterson

2010-03-02T10:43:00.002-06:00

By Kamisha Harvey, sophomore

Mrs. Della Patterson is a computer and a finance teacher here at Messmer. She teaches these two classes because she feels students need to know how to understand the importance of computers and managing finances better. Patterson feels that at times students go on the computer and just handle their business, but there are other interesting things on the computer that students can enjoy.

The reason Patterson came to teach at Messmer is because she wanted to help students get a better education in learning how to actually use the computer. She feels that students here are well educated but that help with computers could improve.

When Patterson first came to Messmer she wasn’t nervous but she was very happy to teach. She was ready to teach the students and show them how to actually use the computer. The best thing she likes about her job is teaching the students. She loves to teach and show kids new things.

Wisconsin to Iowa and back again

2010-03-02T10:28:00.005-06:00

By Eduardo Castaneda, sophomore

Mr. Geoff Kaiser was born in Merrill, Wisconsin in October 1, 1984. He just to live in Horicon, Wisconsin, but then moved to Dubuque, Iowa. He has one sister and brother-in-law and two aunts and two uncles that live in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.
Kaiser went to Loras College in Dubuque with his major being Physical Education and Health with a teaching endorsement for biology and to coach. He found Messmer because it was late in the summer and he had applied everywhere for work and luckily he heard of Messmer. The reason he chose to teach P.E is because he likes teaching through sports because they are great.

Before he studied in college, Kaiser wanted to be an athletic trainer. He enjoys watching the students succeed and to watch them get better. His favorite moment from Messmer so far is getting ready to coach a basketball game and coming to school. A for his favorite sport? It is coming up: track and field because! Kaiser is the Messmer Basketball coach and the Track and Field coach.

New secretary Ms. Jackson

2010-03-01T10:15:00.002-06:00

By Justice Adams-Woods, sophomore

Ms. Lakesha Jackson is Messmer High School’s newest secretary, and we are happy to have her here! Jackson attended John Muir Middle School, and she said that a favorite memory from that school was when she first met her a girl that is now her best friend the first day of school. She says, “I had just moved to Milwaukee from East St. Louis, Illinois, and she was the first to introduce herself to me. We have been inseparable ever since.” She also remembers when she receives her first job through her guidance counselor.

Jackson also attended Washington High School, and her favorite memory from there was when she first received an award from UWM for her consistent academic achievement and best of all, graduation. For her success, her father took her and her sisters to Florida for one whole week. After that, Jackson attended Mount Mary College to become a school secretary. She goes on to stating, “My favorite memory from Mount Mary is becoming a member of the best sorority throughout the land and that sorority is none other than Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Inc.” However, while at Mount Mary College her field of study was Business and Professional Communications.

She has already been a school secretary for 6 years. The best thing that she would say has happened to her out of all her years of being a secretary was her building relationships with all the students and parents and knowing that she has made a difference in their lives. Besides working at Messmer as a secretary she has also worked at Tricept Solutions. She decided to be a school secretary because she enjoys working with people.

The best part, for Jackson, to working at Messmer is getting to know the students, but it’s not all good all the time. The worst part is not remembering all of the students’ names – even though there are a lot of them! Overall, her dream job is to be a pharmaceutical sales representative. She wants to become a pharmaceutical sales representative because she says she is very good at convincing people to buy things. With that, she also states, “Becoming a pharmaceutical sales representative will help me utilize my gifts and talents beyond the front desk.”
Thank you for all your hard work, and students, be nice to Ms Jackson and all of the other front office staff members!

Senior research

2010-03-01T10:06:00.004-06:00

By Mark Thomas, senior

The senior research criteria has changed every year for the last four years.. Some students may see this as a good thing since because certain criteria changes may benefit students.

In the 2005-06 school year the requirement to graduate was a ten page research paper, but last year the seniors only needed a fifteen-minute PowerPoint presentation.

Based on changes that took place this summer, students are required to write at least ten to twelve pages about their chosen topic. Some examples include how teen suicide affects a family and how raising the minimum work age can benefit students.

The senior research for this year has excluded the PowerPoint presentation portion that was required for last year’s exhibition. Sophomore Imani Calloway said: “ A presentation sounds easier because when I do papers I like to procrastinate.” This is a common problem among many other students as well, and it proved to be a reason for lower grades on the presentation in past years.

More than half of the students (65%) were undecided as to whether the changes in Senior Research would help them. Senior Lacierra Smith states: I think students get discouraged when they hear ‘ten pages’ because they think it is the end of the world. I was actually looking forward to doing a presentation this year.”

Junior Crystal Brown is a year away from this project: “I do not think it is a good way to tell a senior’s success because some people are more gifted than others at writing.” She later goes on to say, “If this year’s change in the senior research shows good results then I think they should keep it that way.”

The senior research project is a good example of what is to come when a student goes to college. Senior Marcell Wilson knows this. “It just helps prepare you for college, he says. Doing long papers in high school helps prepare students so that if they do decide to go to college, doing such papers will not be as hard.

Senior guidance councilor Ms. Matthews states: “ I think that benefits of the addition of the paper to the senior exhibition project are immeasurable. Writing good research papers will allow students to gain experience in writing which will help them when they get to college.”

There are some tips for seniors when trying to do the research paper. Pick a topic that is interesting. Some students may have trouble committing to a chosen topic because they might not like it, so do not expect a teacher or parent to give you a subject you like.

Also, avoid trying to do the research paper at the last minute. Procrastination usually produces poor results when trying to do something as important as senior research. This research paper is the most important assignment a student will receive because it is one of the determining factors of student graduation.

President Obama update

2010-03-01T10:04:00.002-06:00

By Mark Thomas, senior
There is a lot expected of Barack Obama in his first year as President based on what he headlined in his campaign. He is expected to keep all of his promises no matter what they are, but is he on his way to success?

Obama promised to bring about changes, and some may say he has done a good job so far or some might believe he has not done anything at all. Whether he can fulfill all of his promises or not he still is expected to do so.

Just recently Barack Obama received the Nobel Peace Prize on October 9, 2009 for what he has done in the previous year. Many people are debating on whether or not he deserved the award. A lot of people feel that he has not done enough in the previous year and in his nine months as President . The President said that he would accept the award as “a call to action, a call for all nations…”

Early in his term President Obama announced that he would fix the economy and help create more jobs for people. About one-third (35%) of the students think that he is doing a good job of stabilizing the economy and another third of the students (38%) thinks that he is doing what he said he would.

Freshman Terrell Williams weighs in. “I do not know to much about Obama ,but I do know that he promised to do a lot. As long as he is doing things differently from former President George Bush, that is good enough for me.”

Overall Obama’s rating as President throughout the school is decent (80%) but on August 31, 2009 his national approval rating ranged from 50-61% according to the Gallup poll from CNSNews.com.

About one third of the students (38%) think that he is making the changes he said would come. Senior Corey Williams states, “Nothing is going to happen overnight.” Even though he started just his term this year, Obama has more than three years to make changes as President.

Senior Garry Santillana admits that: “He is doing an okay job. Some of the things he said he was going to do before he got elected he is not doing yet.” Though Obama was known for changing his mind on certain topics he is still keeping some of his promises.

Gregory Bates, a senior adds, “He is doing the opposite of what he said during his campaign. I have not seen any changes yet but I know it is too early to really tell anything.”

In the future Obama will have to continue to prove himself. He has a lot of promises to keep and a lot of people to please. He has to show his leadership by helping people get through these tough times because a lot of people look up to him. Only time will tell.

School secruity

2010-03-01T09:58:00.003-06:00

By Mark Thomas, junior
The safety of students in the schools of Milwaukee is a pressing issue. As more and more students become involved in devious acts there is a need for punishments and the enforcement of security systems.
There is a list of important guidelines schools must follow in order to prevent and manage school violence, reduce safety risks and improve school community relations according to the National School and Safety and Security services.

Different schools require different types of security, which is based on past or chronic offenses. Public schools tend to have more strict security policies than most private schools in Milwaukee. For example, the Milwaukee School of Languages requires students to have the book bags checked.

“I see fights in this schools almost every week. If it wasn’t for the security and police being around the school all day I would not feel as safe as I do now.” States Marquis Carlisle, a senior who attends Custer High School.

“I remember this school was bad when I was a freshman because I would always hear about Custer being on the news because some students were fighting. Now that I’m a senior I’m kind of used to seeing fights and I think the school has gotten better but it still has a long way to go before I actually start to call it a safe school.”

Student safety in Milwaukee has been an ongoing issue but it is important to remember that providing more security or making stricter security policies will not stop some students from engaging in devious acts.

Mall secruity

2010-02-25T09:53:00.003-06:00

By Briana Stewart, junior

Security guards have become a normal sight among the throng of patrons for most malls in town. Because restrictions on certain malls have been actively enforced, there has been less crime and more enjoyable visits.

People are curious as to know whether or not it’s the security affecting the crime and punishment element. The need for security has made it clear, but some malls don’t have security and are well off. Restrictions on certain malls have been changed in the last two years mostly because of the behavior and actions of a younger audience. There were a few episodes that were violent that required police intervention. The parental escort policy has been instituted.

“These rules are so bogus.” Says freshman Juandrell Cage “It’s stupid of them to punish all of us for a few bad incidents like the fights that happened.

On New Year’s Eve, there was another change in policy at Bayshore similar to Mayfair’s parental escort policy. People under eighteen will be banned from the center after 3pm on Fridays and Saturdays unless accompanied by a parent or guardian. An incident in the food court on the day after Christmas is what caused Bayshore to take on this restriction. So far, the policy is supposed to be enforced for a month, but Glendale police and community leaders will determine in a few weeks if it will become permanent.

“The changes were difficult to adapt to in the beginning,” says Bob Harrington, head of security at Mayfair. “It was a real change off pace because the ranges of age and types of people have changed due to the restrictions placed.”

The changes are not only hard for security staff. Messmer students are not taking the news well either. “I can’t believe they’re doing this policy at Bayshore now too. They’re banning us from everywhere we go! What are we supposed to do now?” questions Javonte Davis.

According to security and shop owners at Mayfair and Bayshore, both parking lot surveillance and mall security personnel have been increased because of past incidents.

However, malls’ target audiences have been altered due to these issues and the crowds have become more manageable

People have reacted differently to these changes. Only 19% of Messmer students are truly angry about parental escort policy placed at Mayfair and have decided to just move on to other malls such as Brookfield Square and Bayshore. Another 37%, did not even care about the policy because it wasn’t even their first choice of malls to shop or hang out at.

“The restrictions at Mayfair Mall on North Mayfair Road are irritating to me now. They make it not even worth trying to go to. The fact that they are even enforcing this policy is a major force, and I don’t even see the point in going anymore when I could just go to Bayshore Mall by myself without being stopped by some security guard!” says Andria Sewell-Cotton, junior.

She isn’t the only one reacting this way. Messmer students are frustrated that the only way to get into Mayfair for a short time these days is to be eighteen or older when attending alone or with someone 21 years or older if your not 18 yet. The only time that children can be without escort at Mayfair is on Fridays and Saturdays until 2pm. Many of the students have transferred their allegiance over to Bayshore where the Parental Escort Policy is also starting to slowly take over.

I'm so embarrassed

2010-02-25T09:48:00.000-06:00

By Kamisha Harvey, sophomore

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What's your favorite food?

2010-02-25T09:47:00.000-06:00

By Sharmane Hughes, sophomore

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Favorite Birthday Memory

2010-02-24T10:12:00.000-06:00

By Tamiya Edwards, sophomore

(Click on poster for a larger view)

Student teacher Mrs.Vento

2010-02-24T10:00:00.000-06:00

By Tamiya Edwards, sophomore

Ms. Beth Vento is Ms. Angie Sereno’s American Government and American Studies student teacher. She was born on February 16, 1980 in Kenosha, Wisconsin. When she was in high school she went to Westosha Central High School. She went to college at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee to get her BA in History and then went to Cardinal Stritch to get her Maters in Teaching Social Studies.

Before this 30 year-old came to Messmer, she was a substitute teacher for the Milwaukee Public Schools system. Vento wants to be a teacher for the rest of her life. The reason why she wanted to be a teacher is because she loves kids and likes students and content area.

Vento has one child named Bella Vento; this 3-½ year old girl is the most important person in her life. She is happily married to her husband Tony, and they celebrated their 6-year anniversary around Valentine’s Day.

The most embarrassing moment Ms. Vento has ever had was when she was in high school and broke her tailbone in cheerleading. The things she likes to do for fun outside of work is having special dates with her daughter Bella and traveling. If she was to receive one million dollars she would pay off her student loans, take a trip with her family, and still teach. She wants everyone at Mesmer to know that she is grateful to be here and that she feels so welcomed here.

Community service

2010-02-24T09:36:00.001-06:00

By Kamisha Harvey, sophomore

If you go to your guidance counselors and talk to them about how you can get a scholarship, you might think they will just talk to you about grades. However, they will most likely bring up community service activities as well. If you participate in community service, and have extra curricular activities to support your grades, colleges will be very impressed with what they see.

Community Service is a great thing for Milwaukee. Although many people don’t participate in community service opportunities, that doesn’t mean they’re lazy or don’t care. Maybe they just don’t know what to participate in that’s going to fit them.

Participating in activities and community services tells Admissions Staff that you care and are willing to help out; they want active students to represent their colleges. Plus, being involved will help you feel good about yourself and about what you can give to other people.

Freshman Kasaundra Jones participates in community service activities at shelters. At the shelters she serves food and play games with the people there. She likes to help people and those in need of help. She says, “I love to be around people and help people as well.”

Many people will do community service just to help out others. Many people say they like to help out those in need. They don’t want anything in return, it’s the thought of it that’s count.

“I usually don’t like to help out but I’ll help for the Lord any day.” States sophomore Ashleigh Johnson. She likes to be apart of community service activities that occur at her church. She cleans the church, serve food, helps out during after service activities and plant flowers.

Some students also enjoy working with children as their source of service. “I love kids. I’ll help out with other things in the community, but I usually help out the babies,” claims junior Darren Welch. He’ll go to daycares and play with the kids. Welch also says, “Babies are the easiest to watch. Yea they’re a lot of work but they don’t talk back or cause as much trouble.”

Senior Chuka Ofojebe says, “I love books and love to read. All books are interesting I there own way.” He also volunteers at book sales. He once applied for a job at the library. “Books are an interesting source to go to for anything.

Marquette University student Kaitie Kovach takes on service work even in college, but about her work in high school she states, “I did community service activities in high school and loved it.” The things she did in school were picking up trash and collecting leftovers from restaurants to donate shelters. She now works for the newspaper at Marquette, but it’s a job that she’d do for free. “As a senior in college, I sill participate in community service.”

Kovach liked doing the work, and so do our high school students. In the Mesmer poll, 70% people say that they would like to participate in community service activities. People mostly participate in community service by helping out others. Helping the needy. Freshman Kasaundra Jones says, “I participate in community service activities by helping the people at shelters. I serve food and clothes to them.”

40% said that they wouldn’t like to participate in community service because certain activities might be stressful to them. “I would serve food, but if I have to touch someone I don’t know then, I will not participate in community service,” Kedara Suber states. Some people don’t participate in community service because they don’t like to pick up or clean up after people. “If I have to pick up trash then I will definitely not participate in community service. Trash can be contaminated, and I do not want to catch anything,” states Suber.

All in all, many people we help for free and enjoy what they do. Community service is great thing that could help a lot throughout people lives, and if you want to make an impact on those reading your college applications, get involved as soon as you possibly can.

Twitter isn't popular as everyone thinks

2010-02-23T10:38:00.001-06:00

By Sharmane Hughes, sophomore

Twitter is a new network site that has taken a new toll on all populations. This social networking site has become so popular that celebrities are really active on it. Jay-Z, Nikki Minaj, Mario, Rihanna, and even the newest President Barack Obama are active Twitter users.

People are “tweeting” about many different things that are happening or going to happen in the future. This network website, that has been overflowed by all cultures, has also been referred to as the “New Facebook”.

In a Messmer poll, an overwhelming 95% of students know what Twitter is all about. Senior Tim Johnson states, “Of course I know what Twitter Is. Who doesn’t?” Maybe the other 5% will be a little more informed after they read this story!

“I’ve heard that it is a website where celebrities update or tweet about what they’re doing at the moment or what they’re going to do in the future,” states sophomore Alexandria Taylor. Celebrities are really popular among teenagers. There’s always a teenager who is obsessed or either wants to be just like a celebrity. Could that be their main attraction?

When people think of Twitter they might think of a website that lots of people are on and a place where everyone wants to visit. Surprisingly, even though almost everyone has heard of Twitter, 80% of people report that they never even use Twitter.

“Twitter is just a waste of time. It’s just another way to create drama,” claims Junior Keonna Windom. Although Twitter has become one of the most popular trends on the internet outside of the Messmer community, not everyone agrees that it is better than the network site called “Faceboook”.

“Better than Facebook? Never! You do the same things on Facebook that you do on Twitter except more,” exclaims Freshman Felix Ramsey. “You can update your statuses, upload cool pictures, and join celeb fan pages where they state where they’re going to be at the moment or what to look forward to them doing in the near future,” adds freshman Felix Ramsey.

There are also a number of other things you can do on Facebook that you can’t do on Twitter. You can watch videos, take quizzes ondifferent topics and compare them to other people scores, play games, and partake in other applications and things that are available there.

On the other hand, other individuals believe that Twitter is more convenient and informational. Kaitie Kovach, a Marquette University senior, is part of the Marquette Tribune newspaper staff. “As a journalism student, [Twitter is] good for news. You can tweet news and get it to tons of people, fast. Personally, I love it.”

Even though the Messmer community has an overwhelming dislike of the website Twitter, it may be a more quick and easier way of getting news from point A to point B. Say less but mean more; what do you think?

Best friends forever (BFF)?

2010-02-23T10:16:00.001-06:00

By Tamiya Edwards, sophomore

In a Messmer poll, only half of students claim that they have a best friend. Most students believe that they have a best friend forever (BFF) because they want someone they can go to and tell all their secrets to or maybe want a friend that they can tell all their problems to without the whole schools knowing about it.

But what about the other half? Junior Briana Stewart-Jiles stated, “No, I don’t have a best friend.” She believes that she doesn’t need one and best friends don’t last forever.

However, most of the answers that was collected responses “yes” seem to be the same answer that popped up the most but with different a reason which was that they wanted someone who they can go to and talk to. Some people just feel as if they don’t need a best friend and don’t have any that’s worthy of being called their best friend.

Some students say that they choose their BFF based on trust, honesty, and humor. Freshman Jaelynn Molley stated, “They have to be trustworthy and they need to be a person who actually cares about how you feel.”

Sophomore Xavier Johnson stated, “Me and my BFF have been friends for about 6 years.” The reason why they lasted so long is because Johnson and his best friend do a lot of things together and have similar interests. Just like Johnson, half of those polled have been friends with their best friend for 6 years or more. Maybe the reason some friendships last that long is because they are friends with a person that they can trust, have good advice, never go behind their backs and talk bout them, and knows how to keep secrets

Senior Garry Santilana states, “I have 2 or 4 best friends.” Even though there is no limit on how many best friends you can, have but many students just call anyone they talk to their “BFF”. Only 40% claim say that they have only one or two BFFs. If you have students calling anyone their BFF then what’s the purpose for having a BFF at all then?

So many people change their best friends everyday. Maybe the reason for that is because they really don’t know what a real best friend really is. Or it can just be the person that they called their best friend did something that ruined their friendship either it was telling their secrets or talked about them behind their back. If you keep changing best friends every week or so then that means the people that you are calling your best friend really isn’t your best friend.

Tips for friends

Things you should do….

1. Be honest with your friend

2. There must be loyalty in your friendship

3. Communication, talk to your friend

4. You have to be trustworthy

5. Have things in common

Things you shouldn’t do….

1. Don’t betray your friend

2. Don’t be a back stabber

3. Don’t ever talk bout your friend behind their back

4. NEVER go with your best friend’s ex-boyfriend/ex-girlfriend

5. NEVER tell your best friend’s secrets to anyone else

Journal Sentinel Trip

2009-05-14T15:09:00.001-05:00

2009 Spring Foursquare staff

Seniors .... and school ....

2009-05-11T10:06:00.000-05:00

Comic composed by Melvin Coulter

Fine Arts Night Is Here!

2009-04-29T08:53:00.001-05:00

By Sydney Walls

This is the 12th year that Messmer High School is celebrating Fine Arts Night. Every year the school has created a new theme for this celebration. This year the theme is “The Streets of Paris”.

Unlike the former celebrations this year is expected to be a formal affair. Everyone in attendance is encouraged to dress up. Not dressing as formal as prom dresses and tuxedos, but more like cocktail dresses and pant suits are encouraged. Then there is always music and food to make the night more enjoyable.

The first time Messmer had Fine Arts Night there were thirty people in attendance. Last year, for the “Green and Growing theme”, there were eight hundred people that came to view the artwork that really showcased the talents that the students possess. This year, Mrs. Flierl expects the attendance to be around five hundred people. There’s no cost and the date will be April 30th.

Sophomore Giovanni Rodriguez had her self-portrait showcased last year. She stated, “Having my artwork showcased made me feel proud of myself.”

Junior, Tieara Stewart spoke about students having the chance to express themselves.

“I think Fine Arts Night is great because it gives students the chance to express their individual talents and who they are if they feel misunderstood,” Stewart expressed.

Out of students surveyed about what they like to see at Fine Arts Night 32% percent of the students enjoy seeing the paintings, 30% like the sketches, 25% percent were more drawn to the sculptures, and 13% percent of the students liked seeing the pottery.

Art teacher, Mr. Mike Boyle, works with all of his art classes to decorate and hang murals in the basement’s hallway that display this year’s Fine Arts Night theme, “The Streets of Paris.”

Bookstore Manager, Mr. Jeremy Armstrong, wishes we had a Fine Arts Week because he feels that the nightly event is not enough. “Fine Arts Week is an exciting idea”, Mrs. Flierl thought when it was brought to her attention. She wants to share that idea at the next Fine Arts Night meeting and hopes that gets approved. Mrs. Flierl also mentioned that the most important thing is the student’s artwork.

“All year I save the best pieces from my students, mount all of the artwork, and help plan activities for the night. There will musical performances and a judged art contest. The night is to celebrate all the hard work our students do over the course of a year and share the beauty of art and music with friends and family.”

Leadership in Washington DC

2009-04-07T12:35:00.001-05:00

18 Messmer students visited Washington DC this past weekend to find out what it is like in our Nation's capital.

Japanese cuisine is a new experience for most

2009-03-11T08:08:00.001-05:00

Mardi Gras kicks off Lenten season

2009-02-24T14:15:00.000-06:00

Who is it?

2009-02-17T13:24:00.000-06:00

Post a comment with your name and the name of this teacher and you will have a chance to win Bishop Bucks!

Picture of the week - Teachers play, too.

2009-02-05T14:36:00.000-06:00

Vince LoCoco, Josh Reiss, Greg Flattery, Justin Armitage KC Simon, Kris Puddicombe, Jeremy Armstrong, Kim Stein, Abby Vogt, Rachel Dobrauc, Mark Ketterhagen and Liz Flattery use the snow day productively for a snow football game. And yes, teachers do have first names.

Hip Hop influences some students but in various ways

2009-02-04T09:11:00.000-06:00

By Shayla Wesley, Senior

Hip Hop is a culture that includes rap music, style, language, and the way one presents themselves, and it influences well beyond those categories. Many are touched by this culture which as become its own industry of sales and promotion, but are teens at Messmer any more or less attracted to the ways of this world?

“I don’t think I am influenced by the Hip Hop world,” says senior Jasmine L. Davis. “I am my own person, and I do not let it get me to do anything.” Davis, then, is not one of the 46% of students that say that style influences them the most.

Junior Anthony Spicer claims, “Style influences me because if I am watching BET and I see a jacket or a belt that I like, I am most likely going to go out and buy it.” Surprisingly, only 14% say that the use of good and bad language influences them. “I am not influenced by the bad use of language because I do not repeat what other people say if I know that it will get me in trouble,” Spicer continues. Regarding others, “I think people do mimic of the Hip Hop World for kids because if a child sees something that they will like to try then they will eventually try to experience what they just saw,” stated Spicer.

Fashion trends are mostly routinely modeled by teens. If the Hip Hop trends bring out a new fashion such as skinny jeans or the puppy dog hat, a majority will most likely mimic that or try to find a similar style. Over three fourths of the studnets admit to buying into the trends they see.

There are both positive and negative affects of this culture on the general public. A positive effect can be encouraging people to stop all the violence and hatred towards one another.

“Nas is a perfect example because he wants people to come together as one and he wants to see change in the world,” states senior Shakira Taylor.

On the other hand, one negative effect trickles down to young kids. Children can be listening to a radio or watching television then all of a sudden a bad word is said and now the child is just going around saying that word they heard. Parents must be aware of what their children are watching or listening to and have a discussion about what is acceptable to model.

Where is study hall?

2009-01-21T20:45:00.001-06:00

By Brittany Miller

Sixteen year old Alexandria Rodgers walked into her first hour study hall at school. She expected it to be quiet and a good place for her to finally be able to finish her eighth hour’s homework. However, when she opened the door she saw something completely different.

“Study hall was a class that basically was gossip hour or a way to catch up on last night’s party that you might have missed. I was shocked when I walked into the door of study hall for the first time because I could not find anyone studying,” Rodgers, a sophomore at Pulaski High School, claims.

Study halls have been canceled out of many schools due to the fact that nobody ever studies in them. Instead, people talked the whole hour, never did any work, and many altercations came from this so called “gossip hour”.

“I hate looking down at my schedule every semester to see the words ‘study hall’ on it because what those words are really saying to me is, ‘Josh, get ready to get into a whirl of trouble and fail all your classes’. I try to get it switched immediately because I know I am not going to do any work, which will bring my grades down.” These are the words of Joshua Camry, a junior at Pulaski High School.

Many schools like Pulaski High School and Messmer have canceled study hall as a class since many students abuse the privilege. This is good for students like Camry but bad for the ones who desperately need a study hour and would use it appropriately.

“When I first came to Messmer I prayed that I had a study hall on my schedule. When I did not I went to my guidance counselor and told her that I desperately needed it and that is when I found out that there was not a study hall at Messmer. This effected me badly because I was so used to having it at my previous school to catch up on missing assignments or do a classes homework before it is time to go to that class.” Junior Charles Sutton is one of those who would have used it wisely. Unfortunately, Many students just like Sutton have suffered from their not being a study hall at schools. Although this is true, not all high schools’ study halls are this bad. “I go to Milwaukee Lutheran High and there when it says study hall that is all that is being done, studying. There is no talking, no eating or sleeping. Only work is able to be done in that class,” states fifteen year old freshman Stephanie Moore.

A study hall is what you as a student makes of it. It is up to the student’s behavior and increase or decrease in grades whether or not it stays around. At the end of the day a study hall, believe it or not, can make or break students’ grades if not taken seriously. Therefore, if you have a study hall as a class, please do not mess up the privilege for underclassmen, do your work!

Picture of the week - Irony

2009-01-21T20:40:00.001-06:00

Mr. Mark Ketterhagen loves Ohio State Buckeye football. He actually is rather crazy about it! So you can imagine his surprise when this banner showed up in his doorway yesterday! Welcome back to school Mr. K!

Two things Messmer doesn't have: Block schedules and year round school

2009-01-21T20:38:00.000-06:00

There are different types of scheduling within the nation’s different school systems. A majority are 10-month school years, and some schools are year-round schools. It may sound like too much school, but it actually means these type of school are given longer breaks but are in school over 12 months as opposed to 10 months. There are also scheduling called block scheduling. These types allow students to experience different classes on different days. What do students prefer in terms of the structure of their days and school year?

Going to a school that has block scheduling is better because “We spend more time learning the subject thoroughly and actually understand the lessons,” says Derrion Brown, a senior at Pius High School. He thinks that having a block scheduling is better than going to an all year-round school and includes that the block scheduling gives you the opportunity to ask questions and really get to know your peers better.

On the other hand Messmer senior Brittany Miller claims, “It is much better for me not to have a block schedule because my attention span is low and I get bored hearing about the same thing for more than an hour.” She goes on to include that having a block schedule means that you only have about three classes a day which is more stationary than being able to move around during the day instead of staying in three rooms all day.

Many people think that going to an all year round school means more school days than other schools. In reality, a year round school has more time off then a regular school. Destiny Eison, an 8th graded at Greenfield Middle School says that from her experience at a year round school she ended up liking it because they get more days off than regular school. She also adds that getting more days off she gets more to do homework.

Junior Charles Sutton has his own thoughts. Before he came here he went to a block scheduling school. “I would rather go to an block schedule because you learn more if you are in the class for more than 45 minutes.”

Overall, many schools have different routines and schedules to fit their student bodies. They pick what schedule that best fits for them.

Going Green

2009-01-21T20:28:00.000-06:00

By Sable Harris

In this century the world has tried its best to stress the importance of recycling. “Going green” is the catch phrase, and it is hopefully not just a trend but a movement that will be around for a long time.

Television, radio, and all type of communication keeps informing the world about global warming and keeping the environment clean, but how many people actually take the time to listen to what they are saying? Freshman Jasmine Lowe does.

“My mom is really big on recycling and she hates seeing broken glass and bottles in the street, so she makes us clean it up and put them in recycling bins sometimes I hate ding it, but I look at it as I am helping my great grandchild.”

Lowe does not just recycle because her mom tells her to; Jasmine feels that it is good for the world to have a clean air, because there is too much population and harmful tings that keeps her away from the thins that she wants to do.

Many people who feel the same way that Jasmine does take sophomore Jesse Saphonphakdee for example knows that recycling and global warming is more then just saving the trees; his recycling goes deeper than that.

“I recycle because it saves me a little money. Many people don’t understand that recycling can go a little deeper than putting bottles in recycling bin. I recycle the paper I have. If I have paper that is wrinkled or has something wrote on it I will use it and get another assignment out of it, I mean, why waste money on paper when I can get something more valuable?”

Unfortunately, there are people who don’t recycle or that try to do their best but it’s not a top priority. Freshman Dazzire Hale thinks that recycling is good, but sometimes she just forgets.

“I don’t recycle, because it is not my top priority right now, and it kind of slips my mind. I want to but it’s not something that I can just do,” says Hale.

Global warming and recycling is really important and to get more involved contact Mr. Gottschalk in Admissions or any of the teachers and students involved in Messmer’s Green Team.

Talk It Up With The Foursquare!

2009-01-12T11:02:00.000-06:00

Welcome to The Foursquare Advice column where you are free to explain or discuss your issues, and it only kept between us!
We are here to help you with any possible issue you have in lifetime to make things go smooth for you. For security issues it is best to include an false identification rather than your real identification, but please tell your actual grade level. To get advice from about your issue send a email to tlkitup@yahoo.com

Messmer Journalism Staff Makes Things Happen

2008-12-10T07:35:00.000-06:00

Lefties

2008-12-10T06:57:00.000-06:00

By Germika Sanders, Junior

It appears that our presidential elect Barak Obama and his former competitor, John McCain
disagree on a lot of issues, but they can not deny that they have one thing in common: they are both left-handed.

For thousands of years evil and even the devil have been associated with the left hand. Now in the twenty-first
century, we know that lefthanders have adapted to the right-hand world whether it is fair for them to “change” or not. Many centuries ago, being left-handed meant you were cursed which is very superstitious. Those with certain religious affiliations often thought the devil baptized his followers by making them left-handed. In Eastern countries,
citizens believed that left-handed people were inferior.

In some cultures, they were looked upon with awe and viewed as goddesses. Today we know that these “southpaws” are ordinary just like the rest of us. Unfortunately, we live in a world that caters to the right-handed. There are some disadvantages for not being able to write with your right hand.

“I really can’t stand writing in spiral notebooks because they hurt my hand,” exclaims an anonymous left-handed junior. This person also explained that it’s difficult writing next to a right-handed person because their elbows tend to collide. This could cause distractions and irritations for the students during classes not to mention left-handed individuals tend to have trouble with ink pens because their hand smudges the ink.

According to Mr. Chad Griesel, left-handers have a shorter life span than those who write with their right hand. A school-wide survey revealed 80% of students are right-handed. Those who are did not have a problem with being this way. “I’ve trained myself to learn how to write in right-hand notebooks,” stated junior Brianne Jarrett. There are solutions for those lefties who do not like taking notes in right-hand notebooks, but there is a catch. Many new products out there exist for those who write with their left hands.

There are products such as left-handed spiral notebooks, keyboards, scissors and even left-handed mugs. The unfortunate thing about these left-handed items is that they are expensive and hard to find. The average cost of a left-handed notebook
is $4.25 with a typical notebook from Wal-Mart ranging from $0.10 to $3.00. Why should lefties be charged for writing with a less “popular” hand?

Mary Cauler, a woman who owns a left-handed store in Pennsylvania, claims her left-handed items are high because not many lefties purchase left-hand items and they are not manufactured as much as right-handed items. We all know that left-handed individuals should be treated like everyone else. Unfortunately they have more disadvantages not because of the fact they are left-handed but through how society views them. However, when it’s all said and done, everyone will still think that we are living in a right-handed world.

Fun Fact: Where did “south paw” come from?

It was originally a boxing term, and since the majority of boxers were right-handed, when you fought a lefty they would stand the same way but their punch would come out of nowhere or "the south."

In baseball, left-handed pitchers face south when facing thebatter.

Honor Roll

2008-11-18T08:40:00.001-06:00

GREAT NEWS!
There are 215 students on the honor roll for the first quarter, 62 of whom are on the ‘A’ honor roll! This represents 33% of our student body being on the honor roll. Our attendance rate for the first quarter was 95.9%. These statistics are testimony to the outstanding work of the faculty and staff. GREAT JOB EVERYONE!

Drop and Give Me 50

2008-11-02T18:48:00.000-06:00

By Danielle Eastern

Arriving at the door of the gymnasium, Ms. Bretch and Mr. Armitage were planted, holding two clipboards in hand. Their positions helped paint a scene of two bouncers on the outside of a nightclub monitoring the VIP list before granting, those in line, entrance inside.

Conditioning began promptly at 3:15 p.m., but there were well over 40 athletes inside the gym before that time. The gym was nearly silent; only the sound of Ms. Bretch and the untangling of jump ropes could be heard. Both female and male athletes broke off into groups, obviously separated by age, because the distinction in behavior was apparent. Deon Wright, Varsity shooting guard, came into the gymnasium and immediately secluded himself. As he sat- elbows to his knees-on the outskirts of the center basketball court, he prepared himself for today’s battle of endurance.

The bell rings…

Every athlete in the gym began to line up beside the bleachers. “Line Up means HUSSLE and give me those laps,” yells Freshman Coach Stinman.

Photo of the Week - 3

2008-10-29T12:39:00.000-05:00

Quarantine: Think again

2008-10-28T08:54:00.000-05:00

By Sable Harris

Once again that time of the year has come for the spooky, scary movies. Maybe you should second-guess your decision on what or what not to see in the theaters!

The 2008 thriller Quarantine may sound chilling, but it is just another New Zealand remake. The film takes place in a cordoned off apartment building. As reporter Angela Vidal (Jennifer Carpenter) shadows two fire men Jack (Jay Hernandez) and George (Jonathon Sehaech) as they are called into duty to this barricaded apartment building. Angela soon sees that being a firefighter isn’t just a walk up the ladder.

As the tenants, Vidal, and the fire department are all confined to the apartment by the government, the quarantined victims begin to go crazy and attack the healthy victims. They are attacked one by one by the quarantined apartment tenants.
This film is overwhelmed with action, and it begins to get a little bit boring. The constant attacks and containment in the apartment begins to get repetitive I give the movies two and a half squares.

"Secret Life of Bees"

2008-10-27T12:28:00.000-05:00

By Germika Sanders

There are many different ways you can go about understanding the life of a lost soul. "The Secret Life of Bees" illustrates this by following a motherless child named Lilly (Dakota Fanning) and a housekeeper named Rosalynn (Jennifer Hudson) who escape from their small town in hopes of finding out who Lilly’s mom really was. 

In the process of their journey they came across a magenta two-story house that belonged to three virtuous, kind-hearted and hardworking women. Their names were August (Queen Latifah), June (Alicia Keys), and May (Sophie Okonedo). These women owned a honey business, which for some reason made Lilly believe she was in the right place for all her questions to be answered. The young and now blessed Lilly starts to realize who her mother was and what she was about. In addition, she experiences the dream life provided by her three guardian angles. 

This movie by far deserves four squares. It have mystery, drama, emotional suspense and a little humor. 

I personally recommend all people especially woman to go see this inspiring movie produced by Will and Jada Pinkett Smith.  

Senior night for volleyball

2008-10-23T13:01:00.000-05:00

By Jon Sykes

The Messmer Lady Bishops' Volleyball Team took a tough loss on senior night Tuesday evening against Brookfield Academy. This was their last game of the regular season.

In the beginning of the game they kept the first match close and went down to the wire before losing 25-20. In the next two matches Brookfield Academy took control of the game winning the second match 25-13 and the third 19-25. The Lady Bishops showed great effort on their last stand in the game but ended up losing the fourth one 15-10.

Before the game, Senior Thomasha Ivy-Patterson spoke about how the team and how the season went so far.

“I am extremely pleased with our volleyball season. It has been a great experience to be involved in this sport for the past four years.”

Six seniors were presented before the game to be honored for their hard work and the last regular season they will play at home for volleyball.

Going into the playoffs the volleyball team knows what it takes to make it far into the playoffs.
The Lady Bishops next game is Tuesday, October 21, 2008 at home against St. Francis during first-round regionals.

Spirit week full of color and pride

2008-10-22T08:39:00.000-05:00

Pep Rally Magic: Bretsch and Hauser

2008-10-21T12:52:00.000-05:00

Messmer student in Thailand

2008-10-17T00:33:00.000-05:00

10-17-2008

Monthly Update by Michael Werkmeister

Hello Messmer! I’m writing from Cantabria, Thailand. It is on the southeast coast of the country. It is so straight here; I’m like 10 minutes from the beach, and it is hot all day everyday.

Thailand is nothing like the States. Before I came I had no idea what to expect, and any thoughts I may have had are nothing like what it really is. I was told I’m going to a small city, but it is a city of about 400,000!

My school has about 4,000 students, and it is made up of several buildings. It is so cool at school though; instead of “Whiteboy” they call me “Farang” which means “foreigner” or “Westerner” in Thai. School is pretty crazy; I feel like a celebrity because everyone always wants to talk to me and practice their English. The thing is most need A LOT more practice, which makes it very hard to communicate.

I’m taking Thai lessons everyday at school, so I’m starting to be able to speak the language and to also read and write which is pretty cool. My school is so big and has so much to do -- I love it. I asked about the basketball team, and they said to show up Wednesday. On Wednesday I was there, and it turns out it was a game. They let me play and we won 76-24. Ha-ha! Our team is one of the best in the province. There was a big tourney this week, but I couldn’t play because I have not been here for 6 months, much like that bogus WIAA transfer rule. Anyway, I have still been playing half-court at the park. Some Thai people can hoop, but only a few. They sure don’t BALL like we do! So, I’m like one of the best; they just CAN’T STOP ME … I’ve also been playing full courts at the stadium, which is much more competitive, but … THEY STILL CAN'T HOLD ME ... ha-ha!

As for my host family, they are very nice. It is great because my host dad is a dentist, and in Thailand dentists are pretty well off, so my house is decent. Also, my mom speaks very good English, which is quite lucky considering some exchange students have families that speak only Thai.

I’ve been traveling around as much as I can on the weekend so that I can see a bunch of sweet places in Thailand. It is nice because my city is about two hours away from Bangkok. BANGKOK is a crazy place: there are so many people everywhere, but there’s a lot going on for sure, so it is really fun. I was there last weekend, and I bought a new guitar, which is so nice. Now I can’t stop playing it. Also, the price exchange here is AMAZING. One U.S. dollar is the same as 35 baht, and when I go out to eat most places its like 20-30 baht for a full meal. Everything here is just so cheap; I find myself spending so much money, but then I really look at it and see that it is only a couple of dollars.

THE FOOD!! AROI MAK!! (Very Delicious) it is so good. Almost everyone in Thailand has a maid including my family. Our maid is very nice and anytime she sees me sitting down even if I just ate she will bring me a full plate of food or something. Even when I’m so full I cannot help but eat it all because it is so good!

I don’t know what else to say, but everything’s GREAT over here. I hope all is well back at MESSMER.

DON’T FORGET ABOUT ME!
Peace –
Michael Werkmeister

Photo of the Week - 2

2008-10-17T00:19:00.000-05:00

Soccer fans attend the game on October 16th against St. John's Military Academy. The team won their last home game 4-1. Congratulations!

Photo of the Week

2008-10-07T08:07:00.001-05:00

By Jowanda Wilder

Guitar club

2008-10-01T12:59:00.001-05:00

By Devon Buscon

Head, neck, body, and bridge. These are not only the parts of the human body, but they are the parts of a guitar.

Band and choir director Mr. Greg Flattery has started a guitar club this year and is welcoming g all interested students to join in. He started the guitar club because of the interest a few students showed last year. He is willing to take all levels of players including those with no experience.

Having a guitar of your own is not a requirement to be a participant, but it is a good idea and helpful if you have one. Flattery said that he will try to get more guitars if there is a greater demand for them, so if you want to be a part of this musical group, sign up.

The school currently has three guitars that can be played and has three members. The guitar club normally meets Thursdays in the auditorium between 3:15 until about 4:30 after school.

Electric and acoustic are a few of the styles that you can try out should you choose to join. So this club is for you if you want to learn how to play heavier songs or just dabble in the lighter side of things.

Pilgrimage to Assisi coming up

2008-10-01T12:35:00.001-05:00

By Sable Harris

When the word pilgrimage is mentioned, Malcolm X may come to mind, but there is probably a lot of confusion as to what the term really means. There maybe a basic understanding, but what exactly is a pilgrimage? Basically, it is a journey, and most likely a long one made to some sacred place as an act of religious devotion. In December 25 Messmer students will have the opportunity to come up with their own interpretation of “pilgrimage”.

Senior Joseph Ferch, one of the students in the Franciscan Values class, which will culminate in the pilgrimage to Assisi in Italy is ecstatic about this opportunity to do more meaningful travel.

“I have already been to Africa, Japan, and Portugal, [so] Italy will be another to add to my travels,” states Ferch. The class will be following the footsteps of Saint Francis of Assisi and Saint Clara of Assisi. Both of them have impacted the Catholic Church and the Messmer family.

The class has impacted Junior Kayla Wilder as well. “I get so much positive feed back from my classmates, and we feel a great bond between each other because we have all connected spiritually.”

The students will be making their pilgrimage over the Christmas and they will be reporting back about their experience.

Hispanic Heritage Month expands at Messmer

2008-10-01T09:55:00.000-05:00

By Brianne Jarrett

The color of life, the sound of joy and happiness, and the aroma of the fresh, spicy food swirls around. However, there is much more to Hispanic Heritage Month which runs from September 15th-October 15th. It’s not just about the fresh salsa, stir-fried beef, the music, or dancing.

Hispanic Heritage Month celebrates the independence and cultural tradition of five different countries including Costa Rica, Chile, Guatemala, El Salvador, and Mexico. Because the celebration is so meaningful, Messmer incorporates aspects of the traditions into the typical school day. The students enjoy when it’s here.

Junior, Yasmin Sanchez talks about the Hispanic Month stating, “I’m glad that we have Hispanic Heritage Month at Messmer. It shows other students here more about the heritage.”

Mrs. Cristina Edgar, Mrs. Suzy Welsh, and Ms. Jennifer Wolske, foreign language teachers, plan exciting ideas for students to expand their knowledge of another morality culture of certain Messmer students.

“Hispanic Heritage is the contribution to our country and world”, says Wolske.

It was in 2005 when Messmer first brought Hispanic Heritage Month to the school. The celebration was not as developed as it is today, but it did show appreciation to the 15 or so Hispanic students because it proved that Messmer was striving to be a diverse school.

The first year there was only an assembly, but each of following years it has expanded. The whole point of starting this celebration was to change the stereotypes from others about a culture that is not a strictly American culture.

This year celebration will have much more exciting things to offer including an assembly, which will include Hispanic dancing and other factual information. There will also be Spanish masses, Hispanic food, and time in resource rooms to learn more by watching a movie.

The foreign language teachers have been planning field trips to make this celebration more interesting. On Friday, September 26th there was a virtual field trip in the Distance learning Lab about Con Suelo Samarripal, an award-winning storyteller.

Many students at Messmer celebrate at home as well. Junior Karla Romero celebrates it with her family. She celebrated this holiday in Mexico and when she moved to Milwaukee.

“My family celebrates it by going to a parade on the Southside, and in the schools of Mexico we used to make up a couple of dances,” states Romero.
Mrs. Welsh who happens to be half Mexican and Puritan recognizes the independence by getting together with her family and eating Peruvian food as well as going to the parade.

Even if you are not Hispanic, just being a part of this celebration helps us become more globally aware of things outside of our American culture. Plus, the Hispanics of our school would be appreciative on the acceptances of their culture. So just come and be a part of the celebration! “ Every year we learn something, and every year we get better!” concludes Welsh.

Cross country and football

2008-10-01T09:08:00.000-05:00

Homecoming and Spirit Week

2008-10-01T09:02:00.001-05:00

By Brittany Miller

Anticipation and anxiety fills the room every time the topics arise of homecoming and spirit week. Many wishful ideas float around Mr. Chad Griesel’s leadership class about what role each individual student would have if homecoming was approved.

“It doesn’t surprise me how excited my leadership class is with the thought of homecoming because there hasn’t been a successful one at Messmer since 2004!” states Mr. Griesel. Although this is true about homecoming, spirit week has been a lot more successful in coming into play at Messmer.

“We’ve had a spirit week at Messmer ever since I can remember”, stated senior Jasmine Douglas. People in the leadership class are just as equally excited about spirit week especially since it is more likely to happen. They have come up with numerous ideas for spirit week, but only a few made it through Mr. Griesel’s evaluation process. Included in this process are the pep rally, class color day, a tailgate party, and a school spirit day. Since none of these days have been officially approved by principal Mr. Jeff Monday, Griesel is accepting more ideas from outside people as well as his leadership class.

“While we are working to get spirit week and homecoming approved by Mr. Monday keep in mind what they both are truly about, promoting spirit among classes,” says Mr. Griesel.

As the date of possible approval approaches, the student body eagerly awaits the answer of Principal Monday.

(Go back on this blog's previous posts to find photos from last year's spirit week!)

Students connect with Eastern culture

2008-10-01T08:56:00.000-05:00

By Melvin Coulter

Messmer High School hosts a variety of extra-curricular activities for its students varying from athletics to academics and everything in between.

An new and intriguing club for the 2008-2009 school year is the Japanese club created by Mr. Mark Ketterhagen. This is a club in which students are given the opportunity to learn about the different values and characteristics of the Japanese culture. “The clubs members become aware of a society foreign to ours,” said Ketterhagen.

Ketterhagen developed the idea for the club after spending over a year in Japan and becoming influenced by the society’s values. According to Ketterhagen, “Eastern culture is a near opposite to ours. Their society thinks together, collectively. They don't focus on individuality like we do.”

The Japanese club meets every other Tuesday after school to discus different objectives for the club and it’s members. Again this is the clubs first year being introduced to Messmer but probably not the last. Ketterhagen is optimistic about recruiting members. Flyers with different Japanese symbols and phrases are hanging throughout the building for recruitment tactics. Senior Melanie Estrada who was at the first meeting states, “the club is different, and that what makes me more interested in it.”

The next meeting is will be held on October 7th after school. Come enjoy some new language as well as some Japanese food, edamame!

Good things come in three!

2008-10-01T08:44:00.000-05:00

By Germika Sanders

Not all good things come in pairs, they also come in trios!

The three musketeers, the three stooges, and now the three Dobraucs. Messmer's own Rachel Dobrauc is in fact a triplet with two other identical sisters named Mary and Joy. Although they all look alike physically, personality wise each one is quite different.

Rachel and her sisters are from Pittsburg, a small town in Kansas. Now the whole Dobrauc family lives in Omaha, Nebraska except for our Messmer teacher.

Growing up with two identical sisters didn't really thrill her as a child.
"I felt like I didn't have an identity," claims Rachel. She felt as if she and her sisters were always referred to as a group instead of individuals.

Each sister has very different character traits. Mary Dobrauc, who's now married and is Mary Cunard, is the reserved one out the bunch. Joy, on the other hand, is the spontaneous triplet. Rachel is the more outgoing outspoken one.

Although as children the sisters couldn't stand each other, as they grew older and went their seperate ways, their bond grew stronger. After graduating from high school Rachel attended Marquette University while the other two sisters attened Creighton University pursuing different dreams. Needless to say, "Ms Dobrauc" is an English/Mass Media teacher at Messmer High School. Joy works for a health care company in Omaha while Mary works at the University of Nebraska- Omaha.

As a child, sharing a birthday with two other sisters for Ms. Dobrauc meant limited presents!! Now grown, successful, and independent women, each sister misses celebrating October 26, with one another.

Introduction to Swim!

2008-09-22T12:33:00.000-05:00

Peace Crane Project Promotes Justice

2008-09-22T09:24:00.000-05:00

By Sade Martin

As a community, each student and teacher from all four MCS schools, Messmer High School, Messmer Preparatory, St. Leo’s and St. Rose will be making a peace crane in the memory of Sadako Sasaki.

Sasaki was a young girl who was a victim of the atomic bomb from World War II in 1945. Sasaki was 11 years old when diagnosed with a lung disease but was only 2 years old when the bomb hit. While in the hospital, Sasaki’s friends visited her and told her about a story about the symbolizism of peace cranes in Japanese culture. The peace cranes represent a stronger and longer life.

All she had to was make 1,000 cranes. Before she died in 1955 at the age of 12 she was only able to 635 cranes. Her friends finished the rest of them, all 365.

“After hearing about the story of Sadako Sasaki, it made me think of peace and how Messmer as a community could be more peaceful and a family,” said Mrs. Jenn Friel who is organizing the Peace Crane Project. Each theology teacher will be teaching and explaining how to make cranes. In the next two weeks all four schools will be making peace cranes.

At the end of the school year we will be sending all cranes to Japan where there are other peace cranes sent from all around the world in the memory of Sadako Sasaki. This is not just a school project; this is also a way to become more peaceful and a family.

Bishops Soccer

2008-09-22T09:20:00.000-05:00

By Jon Sykes

Messmer Bishops soccer team took a hard 3-1 loss last Wednesday evening against St. John's.

The loss puts the record now to 1-2 in conference play.

In the start of the game the Bishops showed great effort as they took the lead 1-0, but a few questionable calls against the Bishops which led into free kicks for St. John's. With St. John's scoring off three free kicks, they took the lead and ran away with a 3-1 victory.

Overall the Bishops remain optimistic about their season. They expect leadership from their three team captains and keep working hard every day in practice to improve their skills. They understand what it takes to win and are willing to do just that. The Bishops next soccer game is on Monday September 22.

Milwaukee's Choice Program

2008-06-28T07:56:00.000-05:00

By Tyshawna Jackson

Attending school is very expensive, and it is even more so depending upon the school. Milwaukee’s Choice Program has provided educational alternatives to many students whose parents cannot quite afford to pay for their education.

If the applicant for the Choice Program is approved, the student is able to get a full education that provides everything the student will need. This is extremely helpful to most students especially when school tuitions are around $5,000-$7,000 dollars for one school year which may include lunches and field trips.

Governor Jim Doyle has been known to want to end the Choice Program. This may be a good idea from taxpayers’ viewpoints, but this would greatly affect Messmer students.

Vernet Hale, sophomore, believes: “It is bad to end the Choice Program because it takes away from people that have to pay for more than one child. Even though I pay $2 for lunch, I still feel the pain for the ones that don’t pay and will soon have to.”
There are a number of upsetting reasons that would go with the elimination of Choice funding. Private schools would lose a lot of money, and public schools would soon be filled to the brim with student and probably gain some profits.

Junior, Michael Wright states “Because I have to pay for my education, I really don’t care if they end it or not.” When paying thousands of dollars for school, one may feel like this. They are entitled to their own opinion.

Freshman, Mujjada Ahmad, voices her opinion, “You shouldn’t have to pay for education, which should be free.”

Stressful public school situations may occur if more students are pushed into public schools. Public schools are great for some students, but private schools typically have smaller class sizes and may have more extra curricular activities. Senior Ryan Williams, “For the most part, a lot of people are on the Choice Program, and it would negatively affect them. Most importantly it would affect private schools.”

The opinions of both sides need understanding and should be strongly taken into consideration. The ending of the Choice Program would be a negative, but it may also become a positive thing. Theology teacher, Ms. Donna Eddy, believes both sides would win in a debate. “[The Choice Program] gives people who are not rich an opportunity to make the same choices that rich people do as to where their child or children can get the best education. It also allows for healthy competition which encourages both private and public schools to get better.”

Milwaukee's segregation

2008-06-28T07:55:00.001-05:00

Today statistics show that segregation still exists, and our city of Milwaukee is listed number six as one of America's most segregated communities and cities.

This is a startling fact–one which most students and even adults may not be aware of. Junior Bruce Denson claims, "I know segregation exists, but I don't feel affected by it. Thanks to my previous leaders and forefathers I understand that my future is dictated off of choices that I make now, so that one day I can have a chance to fight segregation as they did."

One school survey showed that nearly three-quarters of Messmer students believe segregation can still be defeated.

"A lot has to be done. We're better together than fighting apart, but this can be defeated! If it couldn't then there would be no point in fighting it," claims sophomore Adrian Holt.

The only way segregation can be defeated is if the public is aware of it. Oftentimes it is right in our face, and we do not notice it because it looks like it is "socially acceptable." We may even be taught that it is okay. However, the ones who recognize this division before they are taught to divide are those who will help defeat segregation.

For all who still have not recognized or pinpointed segregation in our community, see if you can readily answer these questions.

Q: What's the main race seen on the south side?
Q: What group of people resides on the north side?
Q: What race primarily lives in Whitefish Bay?

If you have a quick answer to these questions, you can recognize our problem.

Of course some segregation is expected, and necessary, because citizens live where they feel comfortable. This is not uncommon or even wrong. The problem exists when EVERY area of the community is segregated and we fail to want to learn about other cultures.

There are steps that can be taken to eliminate segregation. It starts with the youth because they are the next generation. Junior Martin Childs believes, “Integration should begin with the youth. Sports and academic activities should be instituted in each community to expose the youth to different activities and ideas about one another.”

Let us be the ones to start the change and show our community, state, and country how we can “build each other up.”

Messmer alum active in past, present, and future

2008-05-15T20:37:00.001-05:00

By Rachel Dobrauc

Greg Borowski (’84) received Marquette University School of Communication’s By-Line Award for his excellence in journalism. Friends, family, and colleagues in addition to past and current students of Messmer High School surrounded him in the recognition of his achievements. The wide spectrum of supporters to see Borowski accept the award aptly illustrates his ability to positively affect and encourage those around him.

“Everyone who knows Mr. Borowski knows that Messmer is very dear him. He is a very honorable man who touches the city of Milwaukee in a magnificent way,” stated Alea Cross (’07) who participated in initiatives founded by Borowski in the school’s Journalism program. Cross now attends Marquette University.

Borowski, a political reporter for the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel, has been involved in the Journalism program at Messmer by organizing Journal reporters to visit class and discuss their roles and duties. In addition, he has helped establish the mentoring program for Journalism students at Marquette to help Messmer journalists.

In addition this summer will see junior and senior students participating in internships at local newspapers. Borowski’s success in the newsroom and in the Marquette and Messmer classrooms helps distinguish him from other area journalists. One can’t help but expect great things for the future.

Bias in the news but not the newsroom

2008-05-15T09:22:00.000-05:00

By Ashley Campbell

What do you do when you wake up? Take a shower, iron your clothes, or eat breakfast?

Many students and parents turn on the television, probably while they are doing all of the above! Normally, people turn on the TV to watch some news station like Fox 6. Many do this to find out what the temperature is, what the day is going to be like, or to get the latest news.

While touring through Fox 6 news station, many things were brought to my attention. Being able to sit in on a meeting was a great experience. They have all the stories and story titles/slugs on a big computer monitor. With this, they go through a run-down of everything that will be aired from morning to night.

Ted Perry, a well-known newscaster, allowed the shadowing visit to occur. Perry showed me the studio and introduced everyone in the station. The anchormen and women were very kind, outgoing and helpful. The entire shadowing experience took place because a question asked at last year’s Pebbles of Peace seminar. Perry said that I asked a very wise question that he could not give a full answer to. The question that was asked was, “Why are blacks and other minorities always displayed as negative, violent criminals?”

Junior Christian Massey, had his own answer to this question. “I think that many news stations and the rest of the media portray blacks as bad and violent people. They normally say blacks in Milwaukee are the worst. I just don’t agree with people who have never visited Milwaukee and walked in our shoes.”

When I visited the studio over spring break he answered my question. Perry stated, “For every story we ask ourselves a question. That question is, is race or ethnicity a factor in this story? Why or why not? Should it be?”

This is a great question to ask. Sometimes race is needed in story coverage. One case he mentioned was that,
“If a phone company was ripping off all minorities, then race should be involved in this story. But if a person killed someone and the killer was a minority, we would not need to speak of his or her race unless police officers were still looking for them and viewers need a description to help catch them.”

Senior Velved Stevenson stated, “I think this is not completely true. At times newscasters will put a mans race on he air even if they aren’t looking for them.”

While being shown around, Beverly Taylor, an anchorwoman that I encountered is the co-host of Ted Perry at the 5:00pm show. She is of the African American descent and one thing that she likes mainly about Fox 6 is because it has a mixed and diverse newsroom.

Taylor also stated, “Sometimes when doing a story, many reporters are like let’s get the story, interview a few people and let’s go. But since I think differently, I pause myself and say, can I get a black psychologist or a Latino doctor to be interviewed instead of using the same person? Sometimes I would make sure I interviewed one black, one Latino, and other races just so I can get a little color in my story and to appeal to a different audience. I want to show viewers that minorities can be respectable individuals also.”

This stuck out because when young teenagers watch the news, mainly what they see is that a minority robbed eight people or shot 12 guys for some unnecessary reason. That image sticks in teen’s heads and that is the behavior that they most likely follow.

If a young person is shown a positive role model of their same race then the image of success will get implanted in their minds. They will believe that they do not have to be another stereotype or another person on the 5:00 news that just got killed.

By asking the question about minorities in the news, a new understanding of the news and the media was brought to the light. So, ask questions and more than likely, someone will answer them!

Decisions, decisions...

2008-04-30T11:45:00.000-05:00

By Thaddius Atkisson

Messmer students may seem happy, yet many, if not all, have many choices and challenges that they face as teens and even at a specific grade level in school.

Junior Shenequa Jamison stated. “As a junior, I face criticism when I speak Spanish. People think I’m posing when I’m just trying to learn about Hispanic culture.” Fellow junior Alan Ricks states that, “One of the hardest things I face as a junior is U.S. History, and as you get older they try to kill you with homework.” Since this is a required class, freshmen and sophomores, be prepared!

Perhaps it is the seniors that have it the heardest. Having jobs, leaving from their former home and school, and starting college is a very hard transition to make. Ray McGee, a senior quotes, “One thing that I think is insignificant is homework. It’s not hard it’s just really time consuming. And for being a senior, time-management is very important. Now that I have job, I feel independent.” Another senior, Justine Shorter had this to say about 12th grade challenges and how the work s no easier then you think it is, “All four years you complain about how you’re ready to get into adulthood and get out of school. However, students have no clue of the work they are about to endure.”

Some student’s say that the coming to high school was a totally new experience. You go from different classes and rules, to having to go all around the school just for one class. “The main thing that changed for me was the different classes and the rules and regulations.” said Mujjada Ahmad. In a recent survey, students say that schoolwork is the most common thing for a challenge that’s at a constant.

Students like Sabatia McGee; “Coming from a school with homeroom to a school that takes a lot to get around from class to class is different.” Markesha Harris had this to say about being freshmen, “Well, it’s hard to keep your GPA at a reasonable level, because we just came from middle school, and at my middle school we didn’t change classes. We didn’t change classes; we had one teacher that taught every subject.”

For sophomores, the challenges may be a bit more social involved that ay include; sex, drugs, and rumors. For one anonymous source, “One main problem is females and their drama!” From another anonymous source, she simply said “Sex.” as a sophomore-based challenge. One sophomore, Milizta Ramos says “Working on school assignments is hard for me.” Rumors and school work seems to totally engulf the life of every sophomore, not to mention all the material checks, tests/quizzes, and homework that occurs on a daily basis.

Quality vs. popularity of shoes

2008-04-28T12:13:00.000-05:00

By Tyshawna Jackson

What type of shoe do you like and why?

Many people buy shoes only for the popularity. Meaning, if you see someone else with a specific shoe on, most like you’ll later buy the same shoe. That is if you find it attractive. Of course everyone has their own opinion and their own likes, but sometimes “the monkey does whatever he sees.”

In the past shoes were never really taken to the extreme. No one ever really cared where the shoe came from or who made it. As long as the shoe would fit the foot, the comfort didn’t matter. In so many cases this is still true. Women will go out of there way to look nice. No matter how high the heel is and if it will hurt and even damage the foot, some people will still wear them.

A competition is a way some teenagers live their lives, so it's all about impressing people with what you have and what they don’t. Senior Antonio Brown states, “I buy shoes for the quality and for the popularity. Being different is basically a main priority for me. I like to stand out more than others. I even enjoy competing with others, [because] I gotta be the best.”

Many of the most popular shoes are very expensive, that’s one of the main reasons why people constantly spend their money on them. Whenever a shoe is too expensive it is commonly the reason why people don’t buy them, but it can also be why some people want to spend more money.

The more the money, the better quality of the shoe is the way things should work. Sometimes this may be true, however, an inexpensive shoe does not mean it is worthless. It all depends on the way you treat them. Safely handling a shoe can help the life span of the shoe.

Freshman Keonna Windom feels otherwise. “I love shoes period. Tennis shoes and also dressy shoes excite me. Cheap shoes don's really tend to have good quality, that’s the reason I would rather spend more money [is] to have a better shoe.”

There are many other people that feel the same way, but there are many other views. When shoes are fresh and new a lot of people will make it there business to get them before someone else does. Not because of a competition, some people want the shoes for fashion. Germika Sanders, sophomore, claims, “I buy shoes because they are cute. I really don't think the quality of a shoe matters, it's how well you can keep your shoes up.”

Tennis shoes are one of the most popular types of shoes. Jordan’s, Airman, Daddies and Air Force Ones are the main four picks of a shoe. With many people its they quality. A good reputation is followed behind these shoes. Popularity throughout the community and competition has a lot to do with these shoes being top notch. Junior Paige Johnson has a liking for many different types of shoes. However there’s a specific shoe that interests her the most. “Quality sometimes matter highly. Airmax are very comfortable and long lasting. I'd say they are worth every penny. My feet gotta be fresh.”

Cancelled concerts

2008-04-28T12:03:00.000-05:00

It’s surprising and disappointing that most of the concerts in for Milwaukee teenagers get cancelled. Most teenagers look forward to seeing their favorite singer live on stage, and they save all the money they can just to buy tickets.
By LaGina Mitchell

How do you feel when you wake up at the crack of dawn to stand in line for tickets for a concert? Then, a few weeks later the concert gets cancelled; what a terrible feeling. What even makes a person go all out of their way for a concert at all?

One reason that the concerts keep getting cancelled is perhaps that in Milwaukee you can not even enjoy watching your favorite performer without a fight braking out. How can this even be worth your time?

Junior Takara Lee thinks that concerts are just a waste of time. A lot of times "you can’t see because someone is always in your way, a fight always brakes out, and the person you really wanted to see doesn’t even show up . . . You can just sit a home and watch the person on time and not be affected if the concerts keep getting cancelled."

Sophomore Keshayla Strong tends to think that concerts are “crackin”. When Strong finds out that there is a concert in Milwaukee, she goes all out, wanting to get the latest shoes and the hottest outfit that Milwaukee has ever seen.

She states, “I don’t care what it takes for this concert to be “crackin” cause I’m having money”. Strong would buy the most expensive seats just to see who’s performing on that stage. The best part about going to a concert is enjoying it and the after parties.

Freshman, Mark Jenkins claims that concerts are okay, but when they get cancelled he gets angry and upset. He feels this way because he gets all worked up and excited because of the particular artist coming.

Senior, Justin Coleman feels that concerts should not be cancelled because an artist doesn't show up. They should get another artist to perform. Having concerts is a time where great talents can be displayed.

As you can see majority of the people like going to concerts but hate when they get cancelled. According to V100, concerts get cancelled because artist do not show up. They would love to have more concerts but the problem is the artist showing up. Concerts should not be cancelled and we have to find a better way to persuade artists to come and perform.

Baby boom at Messmer

2008-04-07T12:03:00.000-05:00

Love is what some of your favorite teachers felt in the school year of 2007-2008 because they brought a new baby into our world! That’s right…a baby.

Seven of the fifty faculty members have had or are expecting a child within the 2007-2008 school year; five males have had children added to their families, and the two expecting mothers are Mrs. Aleda Kitzman and Mrs. Amy Gibson. Within a twelve-month span many new faces are providing joy to the Messmer family!

Sylvia Rose is Human Resource Manager, Mr. Joe Halaiko’s, daughter. Born on July 8, 2007, Sylvia is named in honor of her great-grandmother’s. Her middle name, Rose, is a middle name on both sides of the family. Born 8 pounds, 2 ounces and 19 inches, Sylvia is bringing a new happiness to her father’s eye.

“I love being a parent now, and I’m looking forward to it all.” Halaiko said.
On November 1, 2007 Mr. Chad Griesel and his wife welcomed little Michael into their world. Born 9 pounds and 7 ounces, little

Mikey has a family name traced back to his daddy’s Irish roots. His fathers states, “I’m waiting for my son to grow into a totally unique, original person.”
Babies can bring a lot of love but they can also be time consuming. Waking up at any time of the night with feeding and diapers are a few of the many things that will make a parent sleepy the next day.

Biology teacher Mr. Josh Reiss and his wife Kristin welcomed a beautiful little girl in our world on December 17, 2007; what a wonderful Christmas present!
“Abigail Ann [is her name.] Abigail means ‘father’s joy’ and is also a wonderful character in the bible, and Ann is Kristin’s grandmother’s name,” Reiss said. He also stated, “[There is] less time for everything, but it’s worth it.”

Mr. Bill Gunderson and wife welcomed their third child on January 8, 2008.

“Kade Elijah was the only name we could agree on.” Very unique, and maybe it will be a new trend. He was born 6 pounds, 3ounces and is bringing a big change to the family. “Three children is much different than two children,” Gunderson replied.

There are two expecting mothers at Messmer, Mrs. Amy Gibson and Mrs. Aleda Kitzman are our mommies-to-be for the first time.

Regarding the sex of the baby, “we want it to be a surprise,” Gibson said. “If it’s a boy, Cooper Martin Gibson will be the name. If it’s a girl, Tyla Shea Gibson.”

This will be her first child but Mrs. Gibson says she’s prepared. “There is a lot of excitement, joy, stress and a major lifestyle change coming,” Gibson said on what she expected motherhood would be like.

Mrs. Kitzman won’t know for a couple of weeks what she will be having. So what are some possible names?

“We haven’t picked any names yet, but we want something unique but not strange,” she replied. This will also be Mrs. Kitzman’s first child and she’s expecting no sleep and someone to love.

The hardest ting about pregnancy, and the best thing will most likely be being tired all the time! “The joy I feel every time I think about what an amazing miracle I’ve been giving”, this is what keeps Kitzman and all of the other parents feeling happy and blessed!

Youth Summit

2008-04-01T11:34:00.000-05:00

When entering the conference room on March 12, 2008, all one saw were the eyes of everyone else in the room glancing at them. Those eyes were wondering who they were and from what school they came from. In actuality, we were all there for the same reason: Marquette University held a Youth Summit with different public and private schools attending.

This year’s Youth Summit was provided by Multicultural Urban Suburban Emerging Leaders, (M.U.S.E.L.) a group that wants to change our community and world. Two of Messmer’s juniors, Danielle Brooks and Sable Harris, are M.U.S.E.L. participants.

At this summit, we all participated in group discussions, at first everything started off perfect; everyone was sitting in different groups. But when it came down to answering certain questions like: “On a 1 to 10 scale, how would you rate your schools education system?” “Do you think public or private schools are better?” and “What stereotypes do you see in your school and/ or community?”

In all of these topics, one common school we all know was constantly being bashed, Messmer High School. Sophomore, Arica Wolfe commented, “Just because we as students take pride in our school, get along with the teachers, and seek more attention from our teachers; does not mean we disapprove of public schools.” According to senior Ivory Morehouse, “Throughout the day, its like the other schools were throwing flame at us, to the point were we started to act and respond like them!”

But at the end of the day, the Youth Summit was a learning experience. From the debates, to taking a step back to realize how different schools have the same issues, to encouraging word from the guest speaker.

Special thanks goes out to, Ms. Val Moore, Ms. Maripat Wilkinson, and Mrs. Rhonda Moore for allowing twenty students to have this experience. We all left with different views and attitudes.

Track is in season!

2008-04-01T11:06:00.000-05:00

Messmer's 2008 track season has begun! Athletes are optimistic about the season after watching Messmer Alumni Sheparis Wyatt compete last season in the high jump at the state meet. That was an excellent accomplishment.

Senior Lamel Adkins is their most prized possesion returning for his forth cull season in Varsity track. Last year Adkins set a state record becoming the fifth athlete in WIAA history to jump over 25 feet in the long jump. The Bishops are very optimistic and have a reason to be!

There are two returning juniors Chrisitan Massey and Melvin Coulter who have had their fair share of success with the Messmer bichops track team.

Massey and Coulter have been on the same relay team (4x4) team since their freshman year.They as a team have experienced the ups and downs of consistently competing at the varsity level since their freshman year.This season they’re main goal is to stay optimistic and they understand the sport much better than they did when they were freshman. “We’re big dogs now,” boasts Massey. “We’ve been running for too long so it’s time to give us our success!” asserted Coulter.

Last year Messmer's girls placed first in St. John's Military Academy meet while the boys carried home second place. The second week of March held their first meet at Pius High School. The Bishops didn't place first but competed respectably at the event. Junior Breshaunda Jones said she enjoys participating in track after her Varsity basketball season.

This year for the Bishops outdoor practice will be held a few blocks away from their school at Rufus King High School. There they will be practicing along side some their competition the Rufus King athletes. Previously practice was held at Shorewood high but the track is un-available this year due to the building of a new track. “It’s a change of scenery, and change is good sometimes,” said returning junior Dalia Johnson.

“I definitely plan to have this season but the only thing on my mind before graduation is a ring,” said Coulter.

Remaining Abstinent: The sex talk for a better future

2008-03-13T15:06:00.000-05:00

By Shemika Pope

Last Tuesday March 4, 2008 was the assembly on life decisions and most importantly, abstinence. The genders split up with the girls heading to the auditorium and the boys off to the gym. Gust speaker Sally Ladky talked with the ladies while Brother Bob Smith and Mr. Jeff Monday as well as other male teachers spoke to the males.

Ladky spoke about many things, but her main target was to teach the girls “how to have the best sex.” This meant not to have sex but rather to wait for marriage when sex will be at its best. The things she brought up encouraged some and even discouraged others from having sex. “Her words made me think and want to wait to have sex and children [until] after marriage,” stated freshman Kalonda Johnson.

The difference between gentlemen’s and ladies' emotions, was also discussed as well as what women do and how we think about our actions and emotions. The girls were compared to egg noodles and a crock pot, while boys were compared to ego waffles and microwaves.
Statistics mentioned were very shocking especially since today’s generation typically will not marry their high school sweethearts.

Most of the girls believed these numbers and were surprised. “I thought the things she said were very shocking. The shocking point was girls loose their virginity at age 17.5,” stated junior Jekya Johnson.

To some of the students this discussion was nothing the students have not heard before. So maybe Ms. Ladky’s words went in one ear and out the other.

Senior Brittnay Mason and sophomore Precious Venable agreed. Brittnay Mason says she knew everything from other sex education. “I’ve experienced everything the speaker said.” Venable says she has already “had the talk” with her parents so this was nothing new.

I honestly think Ms. Ladky was speaking the truth but exaggerated her point, and luckily she was not also talking to the girls as if they were bad people if they have had sex already. I also think she was just trying to convince ladies to wait until marriage and that everybody makes mistakes and its what you do after the mistake.

Students reach out and read at Kagel Elementary School

2008-03-12T09:33:00.001-05:00

By Christopher Hernandez and Martia Hunt

Messmer’s first pen pal education field trip took place on February 26th 2008. The exchange was with high school Spanish students and Kagel Elementary students.

Over a dozen high school students traveled to Kagel Elementary School located at 12th Mineral on Milwaukee’s Southside. Both sides took part in the exchange to interact in a foreign language, and they even got experience some Mexican food tasting.

Ms. Cristina Edgar organized and set up the trip weeks before for her third hour Spanish III class. We want to “let students from each school meet and share language and skills.” In preparation students from high school translated common children’s books into Spanish, which they read to the younger kids.

After arriving at the elementary school, the teens were greeted with a song in Spanish. Students were then divided into groups that shared storybooks and fairy tales. Afterwards, a lunch of tortillas, salsa, beans, Mexican drink and chorizo were served to teachers and students. This time allowed for students to interact and share a more complete sense of the culture.

Senor Christina Harvey described this experience as, “A moment and trip I’ll never forget.” These words defiantly were in the minds of high school student after leaving the elementary school. At the end of the day students said their goodbyes and planned to meet again.

We've got spirit

2008-03-04T14:45:00.001-06:00

The Lady Bishop's basketball team went down with a fight during the Regional Championship game...and with strong supporters!

School shootings - but not in our house

2008-02-18T12:03:00.000-06:00

By Ashley Sartin

It started at Columbine High School in 1999 and continues on with the most recent slaughter at Northern Illinois University (NIU). Both of these events have something in common: they both have taken place in educational settings. From high school to high quality universities, these types of massacres make one wonder what the security plans are in place at our own school.

Wednesday, February 13th, around 3:00 p.m. was when the shots rang out. Seven people were killed, and about seventeen others injured. Reports acknowledged that the gunman, Stephen Kazmierczak, had recently stopped taking his medication and became erratic in his actions. This may have been what led him to harm and to take the lives of other students and finally his own.

By carrying the two guns in a guitar case that for most was considered a regular day. Kazmierczak came to his final destination - where he would as many others would be seen for the last time - to Cole Hall. He came from behind the stage and started firing shots in the geology class. Soon as his rampage was over, just like other gunman in the past, Kazmierczak shot himself too, falling unto the stage.

But this is in Illinois. What about here at Messmer?

Patrick Fennesy, Campus Safety Director for Messmer Catholic Schools, has confirmed that Messmer does have a safety policy in place if something were to ever happen like the Columbine High School shooting. Fennesy has been involved in law enforcement for fifteen years. From being with the Milwaukee Police, Sate Police, a security guard for Governor Thompson, to being a U.S. Marshall, Mr. Fennesy has a lot of experience maintaining security. “We review and up-date the safety pan every year,” noted Fennesy.

For many students they feel like the security cameras are just for being nosey and invading in their privacy but in all actuality they are there to know what’s going on, and who is coming in and out of our school. “We know and see everything that happens, from outside of school to right on the front steps,” confirmed Fennesy.

As you can see, walking through the front doors of the school, we don’t have metal detectors. But we have security that are on top of their game. So, we don’t have to worry about things like the NIU and the Columbine shootings happening here.

Back to the 80s?

2008-02-18T11:25:00.000-06:00

Bench press and squat...can you handle it?

2008-02-11T09:59:00.000-06:00

The muscle man himself, Mr. Price, hosted the Messmer Bench PRESS and Squat Competition on January 9th after school. This was the chance for all Messmer students AND staff members to show what they were made of or basically, how strong they are.

“I was very overwhelmed to see the audience that came to support the event”, expressed Mr. Price with a warm smile. There were freshmen, sophomores, juniors, seniors, teachers, staff, cheerleaders, parents and other family members, and alumni coming out to show their support that night. They cheered for one another hoping for them to do their best at either the bench presses or the squats. The Messmer family love was in the air.

This year's theme, “Build One Another Up”, was a key element shown that night. Mr. Price has done a wonderful job with the Fitness Club. There is no “negative” vibe about that.

The people who participated in the competition put a lot of hard work into their area. Every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday they were practicing after school with Mr. Price .

With all the hard work put into this event everything went smoothly. The students did everything that they knew they had to do to accomplish what they needed to accomplish. They made everyone proud especially Mr. Price. This bench press and squat competition was not just for the Fitness Club members. By doing this bench press and squat competition Mr. Price hopes to gain more members of the Fitness Club.

Another Bench Press and Squat competition will be hosted again in May 2008. Mr. Price is looking for more members for the Fitness Club and member to join the competition. Members are welcome to join whenever just have a sheet sign by a parent which you can get from Mr. Price.

As the students joke about how Mr. Price was going to win the competition between the faculties at bench press, he had no idea that he was going to win. He felt that since Mr. Gonzalez is strong as well that he would of won but, “When you work hard and give the time and effort good things happen” Mr. Price shared with sincerity.

Hopefully in May 2008 there will be more students and faculty in the Bench Press/Squat competition. Mr. Price is doing wonderful things with the Fitness Club and by doing this Bench Pres/Squat competition. I would like to tell him good job and keep up the good work. I am truly looking forward to the nest competition.

What did you give for Christmas?

2008-01-21T09:21:00.000-06:00

By Isaiah Jordan

From the end of October to the middle of December stores promote sales of the season. As these sales are promoted on our televisions, newspapers, and internet we think about everything we should buy for our friends and family for various reasons. One of these reasons may be to show just how much we care for another person. Another reason may be just to show who can buy the most expensive gift, but either way you spin the bottle you may end up giving to someone.

This past Christmas, according to Channel 12 news, the sales of the season was surprisingly low. This scared the major companies that promote these Christmas sales. Luckily, a few days before this special day arrived the sales started to skyrocket and people began to show the true spirit of the Christmas consumer. Montrey Slayton, senior, falls into this consumer category. He bought his mother a chocolate fountain for Christmas. Even though he purchased this pricy piece of merchandise he still says, “The greatest gift that a person could ever give someone is love.”

Many times we give with necessity or in expectancy of always receiving something in return and in most cases we do receive something in return. This presents the question, how does giving impact your life. Corey Williams, sophomore, clearly stated: “Giving is better than receiving.” In our ideal world we see giving as something that we are required to do for various reason, and what the true test to see how giving is really impacting our lives is to give a gift and not have that same person give you something back. Did this happen to you this Christmas?

How much would you be willing to spend on a Christmas gift? Maybe you would be willing to spend twenty, fifty, one- hundred, or two- hundred dollars for a family member or close friend? Niecy Anderson, freshman, thinks that “it depends on who it is. If it is someone like family or close friends I would spend two- hundred or over.” Oftentimes we believe the price tag matches the amount of love you have for that person. In actuality, the most heart filled gifts could be something you created and not an item you can buy out of the store. Unfortunately, because of this mentality we believe that we must spend large amounts of money to express our affection.

Samon Williams, junior, did not have this problem snce the best gift she gave was, “words of wisdom.” This, in many cases, is exactly what we need during the Christmas season because some people don’t have the family and friends that a lot of people have. This is a part of building one another up and is not just something that should be practiced doing this particular season but should be exemplified every season throughout the year.

Even though 2007’s Christmas has past the giving spirit can still be shown in 2008. Wither your gift is materialistic or non-materialistic when you give think about how it touches them. You can give good things or bad things, but remember bloggers, whatever you give somehow it will come back to you.

Bucks are improving

2008-01-21T09:05:00.001-06:00

By Kisha Birmingham

The Bradley Center fans roared at the Atlanta Hawk’s missed shots when the Milwaukee Bucks secured their lead by four points while ending in a victory on January 16th.

With the winning score of 87 to 80, the Bucks continue they’re winning streak and earn a number four spot in the conference.

As the cold season continues to overwhelm Wisconsin with illnesses, Mo Williams, point guard, was out of the game on Wednesday due to flu-like symptoms he had the day before. He was replaced with Royal Ivey, who came in with six assists.

Injuries were popular causes of people not seeing familiar faces on the court. Desmond Mason, a guard-forward, is out for eight weeks due to torn ligaments in his thumb. You won’t see David Noel, a forward, playing for about for weeks because of the surgery he had on his wrist.

Andrew Bogut attains 21 points for the Milwaukee Bucks and he kept the crowd going wild. Along with four blocks and ten rebounds.

“No matter what happens, he always makes a way for us to come up. This man is unstoppable!” says Avery Alfred who has been a Bucks fan for over 30 years.

Milwaukee’s favorite player, Michael Redd, still did not straggle too far behind. He carried in 17 victory points.

A rookie by the name of Yi Jianlian acquired 16 points for the Bucks. As grasping sounds came out of the audience from shock and excitement, it seems as if it won’t be long before Jianlian is a favorite from Milwaukee

Even though it was not considered a “full house” yesterday, the sports fan spirit stayed in the air and in the mouths of Milwaukeeans.

The game was topped off with Bogut’s dunk off of Bobby Simmon’s clear pass. Hopefully, the Bucks will keep their state satisfied by continuing their winning streak and take their conference into triumph.

Youth leadership

2008-01-11T12:16:00.001-06:00

By Justine Shorter

The world is always in search of tomorrow’s great leasers, and Global Youth Leadership Institute (GYLI) is where most of them can be found.

GYLI is a four year program that introduces students to new and inventive ways of bringing forth social change in their schools and communities. The institute grants students the opportunity to travel while meeting other teens across the country that also yearn to make a difference in the often arduous world around them.

Participants work hard in searching for solutions to pestering high school problems and inconvenient matters affecting those in the community such as crime rates and pertinent health issues.

Since Messmer has never had a shortage of teenage leadership, it is no wonder that some of our brightest and most talented students are a part of the program. Isaiah Jordon, sophomore, joined the institute as a freshman and proclaims that fun, growth and development are all concomitant with being a part of GYLI.

“I would stress that there are a lot of responsibilities that come with being a part of GYLI, but it is a very beneficial program that offers such a unique experience,” explained Jordon.

Jordan declares that the program is not only socially and intellectually stimulating, but it also brought him full circle with himself and who he truly is internally.

“I learned more about myself. The program helps you to define who you really are and to strengthen who you are."

When in Boston, Mass. Jordan sailed on a spectacular ship, and although he describes it as one of his most memorable moments, he can’t overlook the friendships that were formed and the life changing lessons that were learned.

“The best thing about being around so many so different people is that you get a chance to think outside the box and you get to observe different ideals. It‘s a great program, and I would encourage anybody to check it out,” he disclosed.

If your are interested in learning more about the Global Youth Leadership Institute please feel free to contact Ms. Burkel or Mr. Grissel.

Charity and donations for the holiday

2008-01-04T12:05:00.001-06:00

By Theolia Childs, Senior

This was the season for sharing and giving to families who were not able afford a good warm-cooked meal. Messmer Catholic Schools held the House of Peace drive for the last four years in which students and faculty help with.

As campus minister, Mr. Hauser put boxes together as he began to notice that students were hardly participating. That is when competition began to increase for the students since the winning class of the food drive would win a jeans day pass.

“I was worried at first, but then I was amazed on how students were doing with donations,” said Hauser.

When it was finished, Messmer donated 228 boxes and collected over 5,000 items.

For the most part students and faculty had a fun and competitive experience. The class of 2011 won a free Jeans Day followed by 2nd place seniors, 3rd place sophomores, and finally the junior class.

Book Review: "Manderlay Prep"

2007-12-19T11:34:00.000-06:00

By Gloria Brookens

Rumors, rumors, rumors. Who has not had a rumor created about them! No matter where you live or where you go, there are going to be rumors. They can be about you or someone you call a friend. Whoever they might be about, rumors will always hurt especially when they are a sharp knife that cuts deeply into your skin -- or the ones that graze the surface like a paper cut.

Rumors can be from some you do not even know sometimes, but how to deal with it when the rumors are spreading from someone you live in the same household? Are you supposed to ignore or spread some about them? The best way to make people realize that a rumor is just a rumor is by letting that truth become known.

Manderley Prep is full of the popular or the geeks. On campus everyone have money and wear the best of clothes. Never seen with last issue clothing on; they are there to impress. What they are impressing is not the books or the teacher but each other.

We all have heard or read the fairy tale Cinderella. In the book, Cindy really does live that life. When her father passed away her stepmother and two evil stepsisters continue to live in the house her father own and make her feel like she is nothing.

Entering high school with her evil stepsisters who are seniors they began to spread rumors. They tell her that they cannot be seen with her. She is not cool enough to be with them or even be known that they are related in any kind of way.

When the nice handsome kid comes to school his eye catches Cindy since she was the only one to do something when he drove past. Everyone looked at her and laughed but he thought something different. Her stepsisters soon come aware and know that they are to cute for him to pass. But will he pass up her two evil stepsisters for her? Or will he pass her for the two evil stepsisters because of the rumors going around about her?

Q & A about the Distance Learning Lab

2007-12-19T11:19:00.000-06:00

1. What classes are offered to Messmer students in the distance learning lab?

Currently, students are taking Japanese and Medical Terminology. Next semester we are hoping to add a Sports and Entertainment Marketing class. Mr. Anderson also teaches a Law class that is broadcast to other schools from Messmer. There are many, many classes available in the network. If a student has a particular interest, they can always ask to see if we can provide the class.

2. What are the advantages of learning in a non-traditional classroom setting?

There are distance learning (with interaction via television or computer with other teachers and students) and online courses (primarliy using a computer/internet).

An advantage to both distance learning and online classes is the wide variety of courses available.

One advantage of the distance learning over an online course is the "real-time" interaction you have with your teacher and other students. You are able to ask questions and get clarifications immeidiately. A disadvantage might be that if you have a question outside the class, you would need to email/call the teacher or wait until the next class period to get a question answered.

3. Have you ever participated or taught an online course? If not would you recommend others to try it?

I've not taken distance learning classes, but I have taken a number of online classes. I would recommend both distance learning and online courses to individuals who are self-directed and are able to organize their time. I prefer the flexibility of asynchronous classes where you can participate in the discussion when it best fits your schedule.

Questions submitted from Justine Shorter

A boxer among us

2007-12-17T11:51:00.000-06:00

By Ashley Sartin

Competing in Canada, Texas, and Mexico is no big challenge for freshman Mukubi Sikisi. Since the age of nine, Sikisi has proven himself to family and friends by boxing publicly. “They enjoy it, but my mom can never see my fight. She doesn’t want to see her baby get hit,” confessed Sikisi.

When Mukubi first started boxing with his friends, yes it was a hobby, but now he boxes in one-on-one competitions. Due to his one-on-one competing he is now on a national level. “Last year, I ranked number one in the U.S.A. This year I am ranked number four,” said Sikisi. “I dropped because I didn’t go to the tournament because I injured my hand at regionals.” Because of the injury Sikisi has to go to physical therapy every week. The boxer does admit he was disappointed and knows he has to step it up.

Last summer, Mukubi went to Kansas City for the National Championships and earned his first National win. “Every time I box, I keep the recorded tapes of myself, ever since the age of nine.” He constantly boxes at the King Center and the United Community Center.

So many people have big dreams of taking their hobbies and making them a “career”, as does Mukubi, who wants to make boxing his career. “I have a great up-side in boxing.” This means, he has an outward style to boxing because he is left handed boxer. “Not many people like to fight left handed people, so I use that to my advantage,” expressed Mukubi.

One of Mukubi’s worst stories was when he was ten on his way to Minnesota. A kid named Kenny keep saying, “You’re going to lose, and everybody else is going to win.” Sure enough Mukubi lost, and everybody else did win. Now as he look back, he learns that in life you are not suppose to let people get to you; don’t doubt yourself. As he reflects, he realizes he let the boy get to him and settle in his brain. We can all learn from this as we go through life. Mukubi Sikisi enjoys boxing and sharing his experiences.

(Photo courtesy of Wisconsinboxing.com)

Where in the world is Mr. Nettesheim?

2007-12-10T10:14:00.001-06:00

By Kisha Birmingham

Coming into the 2008 school year, Messmer High School students were astonished when they looked around the building. Seeing new faces, old faces, and faces that had disappeared made the first day of school nerve-wracking yet exiting.

Mr. Joe Nettesheim, a former Messmer teacher, was one of those faces that were not there on the first day of school. While employed here, Nettesheim taught Theology for freshmen and Death and Dying. Since July he has been the Director of Lifelong Faith Formation at St Margaret Mary Parish, located at 3970 N. 92nd Street. The lifelong learning orientation sessions are on Sundays and Thursdays.

“I came into this business with enthusiasm and excitement!” Nettesheim states. The goal of these sessions are to help Christians understand and strengthen their beliefs that all Christians have more to learn about God, regardless of the age or race. Part of ever human’s calling on this earth is to deepen our relationships with God.

When asked why he left, he said that he felt that the time was right because this was an opportunity of a lifetime that he just could not pass up. This is part of his longtime dreams, even though he admired being a teacher. This career he was very familiar with and he would have the opportunity to help people more spiritually along the way.

“I really do miss my students. I loved teaching. I still am a teacher, just to a wider community.”

St Margaret Mary Parish is a place where adults, young adults, children, single, married, and even divorces families come together. A major goal for them is to pray and learn the theology behind the events we celebrate each year.

Anyone who has a general conversation with Mr. Nettesheim will get an understanding that he is happy with the choice he made.

“Even though I am gone, it is still good to know that I am missed and that I had a positive impact on my former student’s lives.”

"30 Days of Night"

2007-11-30T11:36:00.000-06:00

By Kisha Birmingham

Have you ever wondered why people are so creeped out by scary movies? Is it because of all of the blood and guts, the ugly faces, or the music in the background that makes your heart throb? In the movie “30 Days of Night”, it was all of the above.

A small town in Alaska, for 30 days and 30 nights of winter, has no sunlight whatsoever. For a whole month, the citizens have to prepare themselves for a plunge of darkness. So what is the worst that can happen? It’s a small friendly town with hardly any crime, and everyone gets along each other. Maybe a crew full of hungry vampires can go on a lunatic feeding fest perhaps?

At first, it was the usual preparation for the dark month to come. But suddenly, weird and mysterious things slowly start to occur. Evan, the Sheriff, played by Josh Hartnett, is informed by all of the complaining people. When he notices that it is more than just people playing mind games, he decides to take actions in his own hands.

After people start to brutally die, Evan knows that there is something else out there. When everyone notices that they’re some sort of blood sucking freaks, they hide. The townsfolk slowly start to disappear, since they are the most ripened of the harvest. As they last survivors struggle for their lives, they anxiously wait for the sun to come back up so it can demolish the vampires. Hopefully, they will be alive to see it.

March On Milwaukee

2007-11-21T10:02:00.000-06:00

By Jerome Gee

Playing the role of Lawrence in the play March on Milwaukee made me feel good knowing that everyone in the play had someone’s life to portray who made it possible to live the life we do today. It was a very neat feeling to know that Messmer is the first high school to ever perform this.

I liked being around the other actors and actresses. We were not just cast members for the play - we had to bring the Commandos to life and their friendships so we all came closer together. If it weren’t for Ms. Wilkinson none it would have been possible. She kept us in order and made sure we were always on time. Also, we always had pizza waiting for us, which gave us a lot of motivation.

The cast is only half of the play: it wouldn’t have been a success without of Mr. Flattery and the Crew. They had to be right on time with the spotlights and the music. They also enjoyed the pizza. Overall the play was a success and I really enjoyed working with the cast, Ms. Wilkinson, Mr. Flattery, and the Crew.

GYLI

2007-11-20T14:41:00.000-06:00

As one odyssey ended, another had just begun, but the long history of Messmer leadership now continues in a global fashion. This past summer marked the third year that Messmer High School students participated in the Global Youth Leadership Program. Arturo Maldonado, Gregory Bates and Isaiah Jordon explored leadership through their community while Lamel Adkins and Jasmine Porter examined their role in our ever-growing global community.

Arturo, Gregory and Isaiah, accompanied by Chad Griesel, started their odyssey in Boston as they learned to sail the freedom schooner Lettie G. All navigation, sailing, and other naval chores were executed by the these young gentlemen and the crew of other fourteen to fifteen year olds who had gathered from around our nation to participate in this experiential learning community.

These gentlemen will be continuing on to the Lama Center in New Mexico next summer where they will study the leadership within themselves from a Native American perspective with the guidance of Larry Littlebird. Other internal challenges that await these voyagers are mountain climbing, a five hour no technology solo reflection time, and building an authentic Native American lodge.

Lamel and Jasmine, who had attended the previous two institutes with DeOndrea Talley, completed their training in Costa Rica accompanied by Gail Burkel. There they worked in cooperation with the Earth University learning green methods of agriculture and ranching. The lessons on campus were then transferred to the community as each student was immersed in a home stay and participated in everyday rural life. In addition, the entire team of students completed service work at a local school helping them paint their facility, interacting with the students, and bringing much needed school supplies, books and pillows for their limited but growing library. Their final celebration was a day of white water rafting.

All GYLI programs are experiential, hands-on, and transformative. Participants are immersed—both students and adult—into experiences of pluralism based on religion, class, gender, age, cultural background, sexual orientation, and ability. Students and faculty then develop and revise their leader learning plans, plans that will be implemented in their home schools during the following school year. Such plans at Messmer High School have included student lead instructions of cultural acceptance at the annual MHS freshman retreat and Multicultural Assemblies complete with food tasting and dancing.

For more information on the Global Youth Leadership Institute, please visit www.gyli.org or see Ms. Burkel in room 101.

Creepy Crawly Critters!

2007-11-14T10:12:00.001-06:00

Click on the pictures to see the full shot!

(Photos by Isaiah Jordan)

Ms. Abby Vogt

2007-11-06T10:22:00.000-06:00

By Jerome Gee

Just in case you did not know, Theology teacher Ms. Abby Vogt used to entertain herself by shooting jellybeans out of her nose as a child! Bet you never knew that!

Vogt is from Appleton, WI and this is not just her first time teaching at Messmer -- this is her first year as a teacher. Before coming to Messmer Ms. Vogt worked at the YMCA during the summer with their camping program.

Do not plan on asking her age because she tells every student that she is old enough to be your teacher. In her spare time, Vogt likes running, reading, and enjoying herself by hanging with family and friends. Her favorite movie is “Home Alone”, and every night you can bet on her watching her favorite television shows, Scrubs and Friends.

A fan of all types of music, Vogt's favorite artist is Benfolds and her favorite song is fishing by the Nitty Gritty Dirt Band In addition, if you want to try for some extra credit for Ms. Vogt’s Theology class, you bring her favorite dish shrimp and mashed potatoes.

Ms. Vogt has been all over the world especially in the continent of Europe. She has traveled to England, Germany, and The Netherlands. Ms. Vogt has also been to The Dominican Republic for a service trip and plans to go to Africa and Italy in the future.
She is a great addition to the Theology department and the whole Messmer faculty.

Biology Ecosystems

2007-11-06T07:41:00.001-06:00

By Terrance Hankins

Unless you’re in Mr. Reiss’s Biology class, you probably didn’t know that the class is making it’s own ecosystems. Yeah, right!

No seriously, the class is using 2 liter soda bottles to create and hold miniature ecosystems. For those that don’t know, an ecosystem is a group of organisms that live together dependently (in one form or another) in a certain environment. The two kinds are aquatic (water based) and terrestrial (land based) each with the proper plants and animals. It would probably be awkward to walk outside and see the ground littered with fish.

The students themselves seemed to be into the project. There were no complaints in the room nor was anyone off task. Instead everyone was completely focused on their project. However, it was kind of obvious that the students were just beginning their work with ecosystems. When asked what an ecosystem was, only a few were able to give a logical answer without asking for help. Doesn’t matter though. This project is designed to help, so they’ll get it soon enough. Good luck!

"Violet On the Runway"

2007-10-24T11:28:00.000-05:00

Book review: “Violet On The Runway” by Melissa Walker

Reviewed by Kisha Birmingham (senior)

Living in our society today, lots of money and gorgeous looks are the new power. It seems as if every little girl wants to be the next Brittany Spears, Paris Hilton, or Tyra Banks. When it comes down to being a rich and famous supermodel, not too many people know the hardships that go into these glamorous careers.

Violet Greenfield, a plain-Jane high school senior, has always wanted something new in her life. In the book “Violet On The Runway”, she has the weirdest experience while working at their local movie theater. A very exotic and fabulous woman enters with designer frames, a tremendously huge purse, skinny jeans, and a very expensive phone, comes whisking through the lobby. As Violet admires the aura of this lady, she slips into a trance and acts as if she is a runway model. Acting silly in front of her friends is all that she intended to be doing. But when the “Glam Lady” sees her, she shrieks.

Forgetting about the complaint she was going to make about them needing more multiple shows, she just looks Violet up and down. Then she scrambles out all these questions like “Are you signed?” “Who’s your manager?” “Can you walk like that again?” With all of the dull answers she received, out came a business card for Tyrst Modeling Agency in New York City. “I think you are our new ‘it’ girl.” With them establishing the fact that her parents need to get involved, the “Glam Lady” leaves Violet speechless.

As you read, you will get a glimpse of how the real modeling world is operated, and if Violet Greenfield will succeed at a dream of a lifetime.

One thing that adds to the nature of this book is Walker kept every aspect of the details modernized. The objects went from stores like Forever 21 and H&M, to vintage clothing like flats, skinny jeans, and huge designer bags and shades.

This book is for any age, especially for girls, and anyone who wants to get a sense of what the whirlwind of modeling is like. I give this book an “A” because of its specific choices of words, thoughts, hopes and dreams of anyone who starts to live their life I the fast lane. The descriptions stayed focus on the behind the scenes outlook and the ups and downs that can come from any modeling experience. Jealousy and self-perfection are common themes in the different chapters. If I were you, I would read this book and impatiently wait for the sequel.

Leadership dinner

2007-10-22T10:43:00.000-05:00

The Portraits in Leadership Dinner held on October 11th highlighted friends of Messmer: students, teachers, and donors. Senior Justine shorter spoke about her experiences at Messmer and brought everyone to their feet!

By Justine Shorter (senior)

“Lord, bless me with the words to say and I will deliver your message.”

These were the words that rang throughout my mind as I prepared to give a speech for donors, supporters, volunteers and the Messmer community at the Portraits and Leadership Dinner.

A few years ago I promised God that if he healed my spirit and granted me some sort of emotional solace that I would tell my story to anyone who needed inspiration or proof of his grace. As a result, I was asked to present the Christen Faith and Leadership award to two of Messmer’s most generous donors. Unfortunately, they were unable to attend so I spoke about the love, warmth and support that make Messmer such an esteemed institution.

Confidence and calmness ideally ease the mind when speaking in front of more then 500 people if the subject you’re addressing is wrapped in passion. For instance my speech concluded with these remarks, which highlights elements pivotal to my connection with Messmer.

“When I think of Messmer I recognize the countless hours teachers devoted reading material to me. I acknowledge the students who walked me to my bus stop so I wouldn’t have to determine the distance of oncoming traffic by listening. And I appreciate the presence of God throughout the building, which continues to calm my soul whenever my life becomes submerged in chaos.”

If I can affect just one person with my words, then my purpose on earth will be fulfilled. Due to the gratifying reaction of those in the audience after the ceremony was over, I am confident that what I had to say impacted the life of someone in some small way - which makes the entire event sentimentally satisfying.

Madagascar culture makes a quick visit to Messmer's classrooms

2007-10-16T12:12:00.001-05:00

By Justine Shorter (senior)

Exquisite culture and memorizing wildlife are just a few of the distinctive indulgences that define Madagascar and the Madagascan people. The colors, land, traditions, animals and natives all appear to be composed of a rare substance that neither scientists nor sociologists can effectively explain.

Courtney Martin, 24, a Peace Core volunteer working in rural Madagascar, has embarked on a quest to educate locals on pivotal matters such as environmental preservation and nutrition.

“It’s such a wonderful opportunity! I love the people, they’re so nice and they treat me like a daughter,” explained Martin.

From leaping Lemurs to astonishing aquatic life, Madagascar is undeniably draped with extraordinary elements. Due to this, observers, teachers, tourists, scientists, students, volunteers and environmentalists worldwide travel to this exceptional African country in hopes of conserving a piece history.

‘The most difficult aspect of what I do is trying to come up with new and creative ideas to preserve the rain forest and such a beautiful country while also finding ways to nutritiously feed the people that live there without destroying the land,” said Martin.

Martin went on to mention that there were certainly some cultural differences she had to become adjusted with. “The people are very outspoken. Many times they call me fat which represents wealth or if I’m walking through the village someone might just say ‘Hey white girl‘”.

Martin, Green Bay, WI, has lived in Madagascar for over a year and highly anticipates the remainders of her two tears stay before returning to Wisconsin to complete grad school at Marquette University. “I would definitely consider staying in Madagascar if I was offered a good position but I want to finish school and continue other things in my life,” concluded Martin.

Who has the most class spirit?

2007-10-15T14:20:00.000-05:00

Freshmen
Sophomore
Juniors
Senior Guidance Counselor

Soccer

2007-10-15T14:00:00.001-05:00

By Tyler English (junior)
Do you know about our soccer team this year?

There are about 25 players on this year’s soccer team, plus me, the goalie. Our two captains for the year are Melvin Coulter (junior) and junior Gerardo Saaveda (Heras).

We have a new look this year because the team got new Adidas uniforms thanks to our great coach, Mr. Reiss, who is one of the best coaches you can have. He gives great advice and tries to help out when ever he can. We have won 3 games and lost 7, which is great considering this is our first year playing all varsity teams.

There is a game today at 4:30 and at our home field, but unfortunately it is cancelled. You can still support us in post-season games, though!

Mr. P!

2007-10-11T13:47:00.001-05:00

By Terrance Hankins

Those who have his English 1 or English 4 know that he has only been here for only a short time, but Mr. Puddicombe is showing his love and dedication to Messmer already! He arrived on the 10th of September and started teaching two days later.

While teaching English is not everyone’s passion, Puddicombe finds that, “Literature connects with people and helps you learn more about them.” His passion is to work with other people, mainly children, which is evident when he found that being a stockbroker was not what he wanted to do. You do not find many children in that business!

Originally born in Waukesha, Mr. P now lives only two miles away from school in Glendale. He says that Milwaukee and Waukesha are different in terms of diversity. Waukesha is more of a suburban area, but being here allows him to be around more diverse people and allows him to see the world as it is.

Puddicombe may not have been in our school for very long, but he likes what he sees here. “It seems very affectionate here, and the teachers are very compassionate about their students’ success,” says Puddicombe. He fits in just fine with the other teachers; his love for children has given him many experiences, especially when he was a counselor at a summer camp in Minneapolis. There he worked with and alongside high school and college students.

So what is Mr. P interested in outside of school? Well, he believes that more money should be invested into education and healthcare. If the government spent more time bettering and taking care of its own, it wouldn’t have the time to worry about what other countries are doing. He also believes that investments in foreign aid would help bind the world. This shows that he believes education comes first and wants a world of peace to do so.

Ever since he started biking to work, Puddicombe has found it to be enjoyable. He has even participated in races. He also enjoys playing the acoustic guitar. A friend of his taught him how to play, and he took it from there, although he doesn’t play much now.
For fun, he once dressed up as a leprechaun on St. Patrick’s Day, but he never did it again.

Puddicombe says that there is nothing he finds discouraging about another person. “I do my best to find something good in anyone,” he said. After a little more elaboration he stated, “I think it bugs me when people quit”.

Puddicombe ended by saying, “I’m exited to be here”, and the Messmer family is proud to have him here.

2007 Foursquare Staff

2007-10-11T11:33:00.000-05:00

Oct. 8 - 12 is spirit week!

2007-10-10T12:52:00.000-05:00

By Gloria Brookens (senior)

For the week of Oct. 8th, every day had a theme that helped students share the spirit of appreication for Fall sports and activities:

Monday= the student show their love for Messmer and wear anything that rep Messmer. Blue and white all the way; Messmer Bishops are on their way!

Tuesday= Students from extra circurricular and sports show off their pride while sporting a team or group shirt. Lots of red for student council!

Wednesday= Calling all nurses and doctors to the ER! Students show off their furture as they dress
to express their carerers of the furtu. Everything from doctors to choreographers were in the building
because they all "build one another up."

Frday = students and teaches re they colors. BLACK, WHITE, ORANGE, BLUE, and RED roam Messmer High building with each grade dressing in their own color. Go BISHOPS GO and head to the pep rally at the end of the school day!

From Costa Rica to Milwaukee - Mrs. Cristina Edgar

2007-10-10T11:51:00.000-05:00

By Shaina Dupar (senior)

Mrs. Cristina Edgar is a new Spanish teacher here at Messmer. She was born in Costa Rica and moved here to Milwaukee about 20 years ago.

Costa Rica is in Central America, located North of Panama and South of Nicaragua. She has visited five places outside the United States including Panama, Guatemala, Mexico, Columbia, and San Andres Island. She somewhat stumbled upon the ad for a teaching position at Messemer High School with intentions to inquire about the job. Unfortunately, she lost the ad and did not find it for another five days! Lucky for us called and scheduled interview, and the next day after the interview she got the job. She says that she believes God landed her this job for reasoning beyond just teaching.

Mrs. Edgar has been teaching for over five years now and has had experience-teaching students with special needs and at risk students in Wauwatosa. She has also taught Spanish to college students and was a teacher for Milwaukee public Schools.

“I love Messmer. I feel welcomed here, and the staff and students are great. My job is not only teaching, it’s about life skills, and I learn from my students as they learn from me.”

Edgar has two children: Albert who is a seventeen-year-old junior in high school and David who is just eleven. Mrs. Edgar chose Milwaukee over any other city because her husband’s family lives here, and she feels that it is a great place for her children to live.

A Man of many journies: Mr. Ketterhagen

2007-10-10T11:50:00.000-05:00

By Ashley Sartin

Mark Ketterhagen grew up just outside of Milwaukee in Brookfield where he went to Catholic Memorial High School in Waukesha.

“I have six brothers and sisters,” said Ketterhagen, “Out of all of us, my mother, sister and myself are all teachers.”

Ketterhagen attended college at Ohio State University, where he earned his teaching degree in English, and begin student teaching. Soon after that he traveled to Japan, where he also taught. I know many wonder; what made him became a teacher?

“My high school English teachers changed my life as did just being a senior,” says Ketterhagen. Since then, he has been teaching for two years. At Messmer, Ketterhagen teaches; English 4, Writer’s Workshop, and Advanced Oral Communications to students in all grades.

Throughout high school and college, Ketterhagen has played a numerous of extracurricular activities. He has played hockey, soccer, and was on the ski team, and fencing team. He is not only smart, but he is an athlete. If needed, Ketterhagen stated that he will coach any sport.

For fun, “Mr. K” likes to play the guitar, hockey, football, and go out to dinner. He also likes to watch his favorite football team, The Greenbay Packers, and his favorite hockey team: The Toronto Maple Leafs. Ketterhagen likes to listen to Jazz, Rock, and Classical. “Basically everything except for Rap and Country music”, responded Ketterhagen.

In about two and a half weeks, Mark Ketterhagen will be getting married to his fiancée Sarah. Ketterhagen and Sarah have traveled to twenty-six countries throughout the world. I guess you can say they like to travel.

“I love Messmer so far, the faculty is great, and the students are unbelievably smart. And Messmer has such a lively environment,” says Ketterhagen. Ketterhagen is truly a wonderful and talented man, with big hopes and dreams. If you have not met him be sure you do.

Got the skills for the newspaper?

2007-10-09T11:59:00.000-05:00

By Justine Shorter (senior) and Gloria Brookens (senior)

Faithful readers often overlook the time, effort, and dedication it takes to produce newspapers and magazines.

Senior Amanda Sheaffer, editor-in-chief of Marquette Tribune, describes her position as a 24/7 job.

“Working at the Tribune is a crash course in time management,” the chief exclaims.

Sheaffer also mentioned the devotion it takes to maintain her grades and run such an esteem paper as the Tribune, which prints about 10,000 copies twice weekly.

She admitted that running paper is very time consuming but it is all about finding the balance.

Phil Caruso, assistant campus editor of the Tribune, declares that although working at a paper can be tedious staff member certainly gain reek beneficial rewards.

“I have learned more working at the Trib then I ever have at any journalism course,” explains Caruso.

Caruso, Junior, has been an activate member with the Tribune since his freshmen year. The savvy campus editor acknowledges the difficulties of maintaining deadlines among all writers.

Even though there are two newspapers at Marquette the Tribune feels no threat that students will not stop and read their writing.

To follow their motto ,“A student first and Tribune second”, is no problem for no one there. All nights and days but there are guarantees that both are going to get done.

Students visit Marquette School of Communication

2007-10-09T11:56:00.000-05:00

By Kisha Birmingham (senior)

During the first week of October, Marquette undergraduates, Amanda Sheaffer and Phil Caruso, spoke with Messmer High School students about he work and dedication they put in the Marquette Tribune.

Sheaffer is a senior this year and the Editor and Chief of the Tribune. She takes 18 credits while still being able to manage her duties of the newspaper. Caruso’s job at the Tribune is the Assistant Campus News Editor.

The Marquette Tribune has a rotation of about 10,000 copies. It is available every Tuesday and Thursdays around numerous sites in and surrounding the campus. The main topics are the students, Milwaukee issue, and the university itself.

The Tribune includes entries that are inspiring stories, profiles, crime news, athletics, and feature stories. This paper may be the main student paper on campus, but it does have competition. The Marquee is a newspaper that focuses on art and entertainment in the university. The Marquette Warrior is a paper that goes towards a different audience in terms of interests and education.

When it comes to completing the Tribune, deadlines are extremely important, according to Caruso. If article are not completed by the deadline, “A phone call is their reminder if they’re late.” Shaeffer said. The deadline for the entries is at 3:00 p.m. on Mondays. 25 cents an hour is a consequence that the writers have to pay if they do not meet the deadlines.

When it comes down to bringing the whole paper together, all of the editors go over the stories two to three times. There is a thing called “late nights” when everyone stays in the office to put everything in place. The articles are digitally put on a newspaper layout, printed, edited another three times, and finally put into Adobe when the finals are completed. They are then electronically sent to a printing service in West Allis.

There are many jobs available if you want to be apart of a newspaper crew in Marquette University.

“Just continue to write and get internships,” Sheaffer states as inspiring advice for new and upcoming writers.

Marquette has a great educational advantage for their students, including informational resources for their safety and greater good as students.