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.”
Saturday, June 28, 2008
Milwaukee's segregation
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.”
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.”
Thursday, May 15, 2008
Messmer alum active in past, present, and future
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
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!
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!
Wednesday, April 30, 2008
Decisions, decisions...
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.
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.
Monday, April 28, 2008
Quality vs. popularity of shoes
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.”
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
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.
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.
Monday, April 7, 2008
Baby boom at Messmer
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!
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!
Tuesday, April 1, 2008
Youth Summit
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!
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.
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.
Thursday, March 13, 2008
Remaining Abstinent: The sex talk for a better future
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.
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.
Wednesday, March 12, 2008
Students reach out and read at Kagel Elementary School
By Christopher Hernandez and Martia Hunt
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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.
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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.
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