May 12, 2009 - Minooka Community High School District #111

Peace Pipe Chatter
Volume 94
Edition 13
May 12, 2009
Senior
Edition
2
Peace Pipe Chatter, May 12, 2009
Seniors
The Last Hurrah Letter from the Editors of 2009
Attention MCHS students and responsibility provided by
the staff goes unnoticed, and
staff,
deserves recognition.
We
Welcome to the last issue would like to applaud the entire
of the PPC for the 2008-2009 staff of the PPC for making our
school year! This issue we senior year as editors-in-chief
feature the class of 2009: the one to remember, and would
last hurrah for the graduating like it known that without your
seniors. Inside you will find help and dedication, we could
senior reflections from the staff, not have had the successful
photos from staff members year that we have enjoyed.
and other members of the Great job to all of you!
For our peers and audience
graduating class, and coverage
of all ages, thank you for
of events involving seniors.
As we editors leave MCHS input and support. We work
— and the PPC — behind hard on this production and
on May 17, we aspire to be take pride in knowing that we
known as a collaboration of publish material that students
girls who played a leading role care about. Underclassmen
in producing this newspaper. and seniors of 2010, keep
However, the hard work and reading and showing interest;
without an audience, there is
no Peace Pipe Chatter.
The class of 2009 will
graduate in five short days.
Congratulations, we did it! As
we all go our separate ways,
explore career options, raise
families and move on with our
lives, revel in remaining days
of your senior year. From
the editors of the Peace Pipe
Chatter of 2009, we wish all
of you the best of luck and
happiness.
Sincerely,
Angela Mateo, Lauren
Keers, and Samantha Kelley
Editors-in-Chief, Class of
2009
Designed by Samantha Kelley
Peace Pipe Chatter
Minooka Community High School
301 S. Wabena Avenue
Minooka, IL 60447
(815) 467-2140 Voicemail: ext 264
mthomas@mchs.net
peacepipechatter.com
Editors-In-Chief
Angela Mateo
Sam Kelley
Lauren Keers
A&E Editor
Carissa Weyer
Sydney Trepel
Iman Bradley
Cover Design
Kristi Lawrence
Editorial Editor
Ryan Kelley
News Editor
Taylor Roop
School News Editor
D.J. Valera
Features Editor
Sarah Silverman
Jacki Kaluzny
Assist. Sports Editor
Mike Noe
Eric Klank
Sports Editor
Tommy Stokke
Fresh/Soph Editor
Susan Bahret
Interactive Editor:
Allison Papp
Chatter Room Editor
Ryan Miller
Copy Editor
Amanda Alexander
D.J. Valera
Ryan Miller
Zach Nabor
Sports Photographer
Jacki Kaluzny
News/Features
Photographer
Megan
McEvilly
A&E Photographer
Amanda Alexander
Fresh/Soph
Photographer
Susan Bahret
Journalism I:
Aubry Aspan, Chikyra Faint, Jake Hoffman,
Elliot Johnson, Melissa Magnus, Kaitlyn
VanMeter, Meagan Hoffman, Stephanie Ly,
Kevin Moran, Christopher Zacek
Seniors of Journalism 2009 include (from left to right), Tommy Stokke, Ryan Kelley, Sarah Silverman, Megan McEvilly,
Kristi Lawrence, Carissa Weyer, Allison Papp; and sitting Sam Kelley, Lauren Keers, and Angela Mateo.
Submission Policy:
The Peace Pipe Chatter strongly encourages suggestions
and/or responses to material printed on its pages.
Letters to the Editor should be submitted to Mr. Thomas’s
mailbox or to a Peace Pipe Chatter editor.
While submission does not guarantee publication, PPC
staff members will do their best to respond to all
admissions. Submissions will not be returned. All submissions are subject to editing and will not be printed if they are
considered to be inappropriate. They must be signed but
may be printed anonymous upon request.
Peace Pipe Chatter, May 12, 2009
Seniors
Designed by Sarah Silverman
Moving on is easy, it’s what you leave
behind that’s hard
by
Sarah Silverman /
Features Editor
I have written over 50 articles for
this paper. All of which range in topics
anywhere from an A&E movie review to
an animal rights editorial, to a girls’ night
feature. My last story assignment ever was
to write a senior article.
This article should be the easiest story
I have written. It doesn’t require research,
I don’t need to include quotes, and it’s all
about me and my experiences. However,
I’m finding it to be one of my hardest
articles to write. I am at a serious loss on
how to use words to sum up my last four
years at Minooka.
I’ve spent hours sitting at my computer
staring at a blank page. I really don’t think
that there’s a way to put my high school
experience into words. No matter what I
say, you will never be able to understand
until you yourself is where I am, a week
away from graduation.
I have decided to start with something
that I know has to be included in this article,
my thank yous. There are a few teachers
Megan McEvilly /
Features Photographer
by
Senior year is ending for us at MCHS,
and honestly, I couldn’t be happier. Since
freshman year until now, so many things
and people have changed. Being stuck in
a high school for four years is enough for
me.
Towards the beginning of the year,
talking about graduation made me so sad.
Separating from the good friends I’ve
made over the years was something I never
wanted to even think about. While some
friends, thankfully, are attending Joliet
Junior College with me, most are getting
out of this boring town and going to ISU,
Saint Francis, or NIU. That will definitely
be the hardest part about leaving this school.
However, as the year progressed, I couldn’t
be any more excited to get out of here.
that deserve props for making high school has always been there for us as an over and
above teacher.
what it was for me.
Next, is Mrs.
First is Mr. Thomas.
Dubik. My senior
Thomas has been my
year would in no
Journalism for the past three
way have been
years and has been one of my
the same without
favorite teachers I’ve ever
her. I have never
had. He’s been stuck in a
looked forward
classroom with the same 10 of
to going to a class
us girls for all of those years
so much as I did
and we’ve put him through
my AP English
it all. He’s had to hear more
IV class. Dubs
about girl problems then I’m
made class fun
sure he’s ever wanted to and
and showed us
had to deal with all of our
all a different
many moods. But through it
spin on learning.
all, instead of being like most
I guarantee I will
teachers and yelling at us for
never, ever forget
snapping, he would pull us
that class. We’ve
aside and make sure we were
had some very
okay. Thomas has been like
amazing
times
the dad in our big journalism
in there are Dubs
family and has always been
Sarah is attending college to major
has become a
there when we needed support.
in buisness. After which, she plans to
friend to us all.
Whether it was a good laugh,
persue a degree in fashion merchanLastly, I would
some interesting advice, or
dising.
like to thank Mrs.
just being supportive, Thomas
Onto bigger and better things
As the years advanced, I
realized how much things
have changed: from being a
little freshman, making new
friends and learning all about
this place I’d be at for the next
four years of my life, to being
a senior and planning what
I want to do in my future.
I won’t miss all the drama
and gossiping, or the stupid
fights between best friends.
I won’t miss all the piles of
homework, or crammed in
tests and projects.
But what I will miss is the
people. I’ve made some of
my closest friends here at
Megan is attending JJC and
Minooka. Allie Papp, Tori
plans
to persue a career as a
Tobin, Trish Chudy, and
dental hygenist.
Lauren Keers are just a
few people who have
made a difference in my
life, and if I would’ve
never moved and came to
MCHS I would’ve never
found these people. To
Allie Papp, meeting
freshman year was one
of the best things to
happen to me. Having
“babies” in health class,
our amazing resource
sophomore year with
the REAL Paul Wall,
baseball games, Obama,
and of course the millions
of inside jokes we have
will never be forgotten.
You seriously made my
3
Lehman. She thought me more then any
teacher I have had in high school. I learned
so much from her class that I use everyday.
She pushed us hard and I’m sure we all
wanted to kill her at times, but looking back
now we appreciate her work on us more
then anything. She found a way to teach us
so much and still be a nice and well-liked
teacher at the same time. Many teachiers
at Minooka are those that everyone ends
up hating, but Lehman managed to crack
down and teach so much while still being
an amazingly loved teacher.
A special mention to Mr. Marino as well
who was one of the only teachers that I
came across that really made school fun. I
entered that class after AP Calculus in the
worst mood ever, and he had us laughing
and smiling the entire class. By the time
I walked out of his room I was in a great
mood.
Thank you to all of you and any other
teacher’s who made school worthwhile.
“Moving On” Continued on
Pg. 13
high school life much more fun. Tori
Tobin, from our friend from White Castle,
daily Culver’s trips, a certain roadtrip, and
just our hilarious memories together I will
never forget. Thanks for always sticking by
my side.
There are also those friends that have
stuck with me through high school from
middle school. Kristi Lawrence, Michelle
Speckman, Alicia Conley, and Megan
Bersano I’ve known for at least seven years
now, and don’t know what my life would
be like without them. Although through the
years, people come and go, the ones that
stay are the ones to keep. My advice for the
MCHS students I’m leaving behind is keep
these friends close, because they’re who
will help you and be there for you always.
“Better Things” Continued on
Pg. 13
Peace Pipe Chatter, May 12, 2009
Seniors
Designed by Tommy Stokke
High school can’t go on forever
Ryan Kelley / Opinion Editor
High school. Those two words haunted
me my summer upon entering my freshman
year. And now with a few weeks left until I
graduate, and of course like most seniors, I
am more anxious to get the heck out of this
school than I was to enter it four years ago.
It’s not like I had a bad time in high school,
but I also didn’t have a good time. The only
regrets I have about going here is that I
could have tried harder on my schoolwork
and I met more people. I feel like up until
this year, I worried too much about what
others thought of me, but now I could care
less.
School here flew by. I really feel like
just attended my first day of class at
Minooka last week. The thing I am most
by
happy about is participating in Indian Cross
Country all four years. My whole high
school year I never would have expected
all the things I gave up for Cross Country.
Sophomore year, in the spur of the moment,
I, along with five of my other teammates
got Mohawks before our regional meet. I
definitely had the most priceless moments
running for Kevin Gummerson and Matt
Thomas.
Something I will remember all my life
is qualifying down state this year. I never
thought it would happen. I always talked of
it with teammates throughout high school,
but summer running came and we all had
heart to work hard. Words can’t describe
how glad I am that our work paid off. I may
have not performed how I wanted to, but
being down at state taught me a life lesson.
Hard work pays
off.
After I graduate,
I will be attending
JJC for two years,
then I’m off to……
I don’t even know.
There are so many
things I would love
to do, but I don’t
want to pick the
wrong one or miss
picking the right
one. My true love
in life is music,
so I’m either off
to Columbia in
Chicago to do
something related
to that or I may become a
journalist so I can review albums
and concerts for a magazine or
newspaper someday. If I fail, my
back up plan is to become a nurse
like my parents.
As I’m writing this paper,
I have twenty days left till I
graduate and I don’t even want
to finish this paper because I’m
starting to get major senioritis!
But I am so anxious to finally
get out of this high school and
get a real start on life. With high
school basically over, I need a
change. So I am not too sad or
happy to leave. High school can’t
go on forever, and that’s a good
Ryan Kelley will be attending
thing.
Joliet Junior College
Meeting the deadine: May 17
Tommy Stokke / Sports Editor
Deadline for my senior reflection was on
a Friday. Of course I didn’t want the only
story I turn in on time to be the last one.
Let’s just say I like to be consistent.
Consistent is an important word to
me. It is usually the way, for better or
for worse, which I operate and make
decisions. From the first step inside MCHS
to my graduation walk, I believe I stayed
consistent the whole way through.
While many people come into high
school and may go through numerous
groups of friends, I was very fortunate.
I was able to surround myself from the
beginning with people that I see myself
around today. I wasn’t worried about which
clique I wanted to set myself up with for
the rest of high school. I just wanted to
surround myself that I could enjoy myself
with and build a true friendship.
During each of the past four years these
individuals have helped me grow and
mature and make tough decisions. They’ve
seen me at my best and my worst. And I’ve
even learned a few things across the way.
I was fortunate to see one of these friends,
Joeie Ruettiger, en route to a second-place
finish at state in the sport that he loves. His
by
work ethic and determination is second-tomyself in the most and even if he can’t
none. There haven’t been too many high
“pwn n00bs” like me, he shares the most
school moments that Tyler Cap wasn’t
common interests with me than anyone.
involved. He takes a relaxed approach to
I can’t forget David Manning. Yes, I was
life and just
envious
has a good
when
time, but
you first
at the same
arrived.
time knows
But who
when to turn
would
the switch
have
and do work.
known
Mike Reisner
we would
has helped
become
me through
close.
every
Being
scenario
named
I’ve been in.
captain for
Whether he
basketball
knew how
my junior
to or not,
year was
he always
one of my
offered to
proudest
Tommy Stokke will be attending Joliet Junior College. He
help. He may
moments
intends to transfer after one year and will pursue a degree in
Journalism.
know me
and I was
better than I
able to
know myself.
share it
And finally, Matt Mullane has come a long
with you. You understood me during the
way from his helmet-head days during
struggle of the senior season this year better
freshman year. He may be the person I see
than anyone. I couldn’t have been happier
to see the results you had when you were
finally allowed to just go out there and play.
Two 20-point games and you were having
fun again. Each of these individuals was
consistent through the years which is why I
chose to surround myself around them and
why I chose to leave the ones I couldn’t
count on out.
Along with them, I have to thank Mr.
Thomas. He stays behind-the-scenes in
numerous aspects, but the people around
him wouldn’t have the success they have
without him. An assistant cross country
and track coach, he knows how to motivate
each and every individual. My greatest
athletic moment was placing 24th in my
final cross country race. It was good
enough to get a ribbon and with any other
coach, I wouldn’t have even finished
my senior season. Not only does he help
on the field, but the efforts he’s made in
making me a better journalist have been
important. The way he takes time to build
relationships with his students and athletes
allows students to enjoy his classes and
enjoy him as a teacher. Although he may
be under-the-radar, his students and co-
“Stokke” continued
on pg. 13
Peace Pipe Chatter, May 12, 2009
Seniors
I’ll never be the same without you
Angela will major in journalism at Marquette
University in the fall.
by Angela Mateo / Editor-in-Chief
High school goes by so quickly. People
have been telling me that since before I was
a freshman, and I didn’t believe them. Going into high school all I could think about
was graduation, but now I don’t want it to
end. I have met so many amazing people
and have learned lessons that went way
beyond the classroom.
Right off the bat, I have to thank Mr.
Matt Thomas (he paid me 40 dollars to say
that). Without him I would not be anywhere
near where I am today. He had enough
faith in me to allow me to be one of three
Editor-in-Chiefs this year and for that, I am
incredibly grateful. He encouraged me to
step outside my comfort zone and investigate subjects that I normally would have
overlooked. His support gave me confidence in both my writing abilities and also
as a person.
Ms. Adrianna Martinez is another one of
my educators that I would be lost without.
In the fall of 2005, I began my high school
career while Martinez began her teaching
career at MCHS. I was lucky enough to
not only have her as my Spanish teacher,
but also as the sponsor of Teens Against
Tobacco Use (TATU). My involvement in
TATU made our relationship stronger and
she even attended my quinceañera-15th
birthday party. The 05-06 school year was
a learning experience for the both of us.
I remember singing to her, on the end of
the year TATU video, “Did I ever tell you
that you were my hero?” She is my hero,
inspiration, and one of the strongest women
I know. Martinez shares her wisdom, safe
driving skills, and birthday (April 27) with
me. It’s been fours years, three Illinois
Drug Education Alliance conventions, two
lost companions, and one kid later, that
we find ourselves at the end of my senior
year. The thought of leaving her and TATU
deeply saddens me, but I know that we will
continue to communicate after high school
and college.
All the cliché phrases I have heard
throughout my life are simple: 1. Treat others the way you want to be treated: 2. You
don’t know what you have until it’s gone:
3. Live life to the fullest.
One similarity that links these phrases
together is that they are all true. I may not
be the poster child for treating others the
way I want to be treated, but the people
who I have turned away in my life have
helped me improve.
As for the second phrase, well I learned
that one the hard way. I have taken so
many privilleges and people in my life for
granted instead of being thankful for them
every second. If there is one thing I wish I
could have done differently it would be to
not only tell, but also to show the people in
my life how much I loved and appreciated
them.
Finally, live life to the fullest. We only
have this life right here, right now, in this
awkward body and flawed personality. For
the most part, I have lived my life to the
Four years of priceless memories
by
Amanda Alexander /
Copy Editor
As an incoming freshman, counselors
and my parents had advised and encouraged me to get involved, and they were
completely right. I never realized how
beneficial and rewarding it was to be apart
of my school, Minooka Community High
School. I achieved numerous accomplishments and memories from being apart
of the freshman girl’s basketball to the
journalism team that I have been on for
four years.
Memories overfill my heart that’s its
hard to just pick one to talk about. It’s
funny how when we get into high school
we can never see the day we graduate. It
seems like you have all the time in the
world. But, it really does fly by. It still has
not hit me; MCHS will no longer be my
home. It makes me sad to think of all the
faces, including locker buddies, I might not
ever see again, including the great faculty.
It’s an amazing thing to watch the way
a class grows together. For instance, in
Journalism when times called for it, we
would always pull together and we have
accomplished many achievements. I have
been with these 10 individuals, or should
I say 11, counting the one and only Mr.
Thomas, in room 197 for four years. We
have had disputes on occasion, but a lot
of laughter as well. People who were once
acquaintances or even enemies are now
best friends. I love every single of them for
their unique qualities, besides Ryan Kelley,
just kidding of course!
Other priceless memories include
teacher’s showing dance moves, telling
jokes, late night football games, proms,
concerts, and homecoming week. I have
definitely taken a lot of positive things
from high school, as scared as I am; I know
it is time for a change. MCHS has molded
me and prepared me for what is to come as
a young adult. I will never forget these four
years with such great people along with a
great environment. So far, these have been
the best years and I have MCHS to thank
for that.
This fall I will be attending Northern
Illinois University. At the moment I am
leaning towards Elementary Education as
my major and possibly working my way up
to occupational therapy.
5
Designed by Ryan Kelley
fullest. If I think I will regret not doing
something the next day, then I will do it.
This is my life and I don’t want to miss a
second.
There is no use dwelling on all of the
mistakes I made in the past when there is
nothing I can do to change it. I am nowhere
near perfect and I’m okay with that. Instead
of trying to change myself for others, I
realized I needed to change how I felt
about myself. I had to understand that not
everyone is going to like me and yeah that
sucks, but it’s reality. We’re all unique and
special: embrace it.
These past four years have given me
memories to last a lifetime. Walking into
First Christian Church in Morris with
TATU and finding what appeared to be
a body rotting in a closet. Death by stair
master in cardio kickboxing because it
wasn’t plugged in. Never played sports but
I became well acquainted with the football
bleachers during games, the sidelines during powder puff, and the softball dugout.
I witnessed wardrobe malfunctions and
heard ends of conversations that didn’t
make any sense. There are many more
memories that I vaguely remember and
some that I try to forget, but my overall
“Without you” continued on page 13
6High School: the best days of your life
Peace Pipe Chatter, May 12, 2009
Seniors
by
Carissa Weyer /
A&E Editor
I have written countless articles
throughout the past four years for the PPC.
But I don’t think that any article I have ever
written has been as hard to write as it has to
write this one. I cannot find the words no
matter how hard I try that could even begin
to describe these past four years. Time flies
when you’re having fun, and they say to
enjoy high school because it will be the best
four years of your life. They weren’t lying. The best way for me to describe these past
four years of high school is to simply say
they have been like one big rollercoaster. I
have so many memories, good and bad, ones
that I will remember forever and ones that I
wish I would never remember, but they are
all from experiences that have gotten me to
where I am today.
Looking back from freshman year to
now, I realized that I have changed and
grown so much, and I have many influences
that got me to where I am, my best friends
being one of them. Sam Kalfas, Jackie
Robillard, Colleen Wagner, Hannah Kirk,
Brandon Hamilton, Amy Powell, Jessica
Pasteris, Paul Bonfiglio, Emily Klein, Tori
Fritz, Amanda Shanesy, Sarah Silverman,
and countless more. Whether you are my
best friend now, or used to be a friend of
mine, I have you all to thank. I used to be
this shy, insecure girl, but you brought me
out of my shell and showed me the side of
me I never knew I had. I can’t imagine these
past four years of high school without each
and every one of you by my side because
you all brought something different into my
life that made me the person I am. For that I
thank you because it was a part of something
big that I learned in high school.
As much as I have learned in the
classroom, I think I have learned a lot more
outside of the classroom. I learned to be
thankful for everyone who is in your life at
some point, because they will influence you
in some way and will always be a part of
A bitter-sweet goodbye
by Sam Kelley /
Editor-In-Chief
Disclaimer: This will not be the senior
reflection one expects.
I’m not going to be sad to leave high
school. I’m not going to say that MCHS
ruined my life, either. Life’s much too short
to dwell on such philosophies.
Granted, MCHS hasn’t exactly provided
me with the best times of my life. I hated
waking up early, and I spent a majority of
my years rather disgruntled about being
required to walk through the orange
halls week in and week out. However, it
wasn’t like it was boot camp or something
completely un-enjoyable.
I’m not about to get all sappy. The past
four years have not been the best years
of my life. I’m moving on to bigger and
better things: college, moving away, and
experiencing life outside of Minooka.
I’m not going to miss the orange. I’m
not going to miss how crowded the school
is. I’m not going to miss having to fill out
a pass to leave the room. I’m not going to
miss attendance rules, or stops at the dean’s
office. And I’m certainly not going to miss
the high school drama.
However, I will miss the people I matured can talk about anything to. If one were to ask
with. In most of my classes, I’ve been with me two years ago, there is no way I would
the same people
say that a
teacher has
since freshman
year;
some
had a major
even prior to
impact on
that. I’m going
my life.
to an out-ofIt’s safe
state
school
to say I will
miss certain
— which I am
excited about
classes
as
beyond belief.
well. I will
However, I’m
definitely
moving to a
m i s s
journalism:
place where I
know absolutely
producing
no one, and I
the school
paper was
will be without
much more
any of those
fun (and
people I grew
up with. It’s Samantha Kelley will be attending Eastern Michigan University also more
stressful)
not
sad, in the fall as a business major.
however. I
than
I
think it’s going to be a great experience, and imagined when entering high school. The
I think that everyone in our class is going to entire staff is one I’ll never forget, and I
experience a similar feeling.
will miss arguing and having fun with each
I will miss certain teachers that have had and every member. I will miss my English
significance to me. I have had some of them classes, too. I have been with the same group
for a short time, and some for years. I have of students, and have had fantastic teachers
some teachers I consider close friends that I that have made the classes entertaining and
Designed by Carissa Weyer
who you are
as a person,
and
one
day
might
not be there
anymore.
Carissa will
be attending
JJC for two
years, and
then Western Illinois
University
to major in
Psychology.
“High School” continued on pg. 13
educational at the same time.
Although I could keep ranting about
what I will miss (and definitely won’t miss),
I will reiterate the idea that life is much too
short to dwell on the past. The class of 2009
is about to partake in a great rite of passage
that is the portal into the next stage of life.
It’s crazy to think about what each of us
might be doing five years down the road.
Some will still be in college, some might not
have made it that far. Many may be married,
and some will probably have a family and
children to come home to after work. No
one knows exactly what the future has in
store for the class of 2009.
One thing is certain though; our class is
moving on from high school. Reminiscing
is something we all can do with great
nostalgia; save it for down the road, though.
As the great poet Robert Frost once said,
“In three words I can sum all I’ve learned
about life: it goes on.” So, we all are about
to end a journey we embarked on together
and participate in our own journeys that will
have many twists and turns. Our lives are
just beginning, but we must remember that
the best years are ahead of us, and that life
goes on.
Peace Pipe Chatter, May 12, 2009
Seniors
Designed by Sydney Trepel
Even though I wish I participated in a lot
more things in my high school career, I am
still glad I did partake in the things I did. I
am glad I played basketball freshman year,
and volleyball through my junior year.
I am glad I was involved in school
activities, like during Homecoming
Week, or the dodgeball tournament,
helped with guys volleyball, and
even just going to other sporting
events. Even though I didn’t join
every sport or club this school has to
offer, I still had the time of my life
with the things I did do, and mainly it
was because of the people I was with.
For the most part there were only
a few people I can say I stuck with
as friends for all four years. The
main reason being that I talked to
everyone, so I switched my main
group of friends a lot.
Allison Papp, all I can say is,
without you being in my life these
past four years, let alone the past
12 years of my life, I honestly don’t
Lauren Keers will be continuing her education
know
where I’d be today. You are the one
at Illinois State University and pursuing a caperson who has said they’d always be there
reer in education.
for me, and has meant it. We have had some
A senior’s goodbye
Lauren Keers /
Editor-In-Chief
by
Just four years ago I thought to myself,
”It is going to be forever until I graduate
from this place,” but it is finally here. Just
like everyone else, I never believed it when
I was told that these four years would fly
by; but they were right. It feels like I just
started my high school career yesterday.
Along with every other senior, I am
always talking about how bad my senioritis
is and how much I hate this school and
how I am looking forward to graduating
and getting out of this place. However,
I know I am going to miss parts of it a
lot. Of course I am not going to miss the
homework, and the term papers, or running
the pacer, but I am going to miss the people
and the moments that have given me some
of the greatest experiences and memories I
have had in my life.
7
of the best times I’ve ever had in my life
together, like all our driving adventures, or
watching terrible movies like Lady In The
Water, or not to mention, “I like that girls
hair!” “Oh my god! Where?” Honestly, it
would take weeks to mention all the great
times we’ve had, and I could never thank
you enough for all you have done. I know
even though we aren’t going to be together
next year, we will always be friends forever.
Even though I have changed groups
of friends every single person has had an
impact in my life, and I could never thank
them enough for giving me such great
memories. Lyndsay Kooi, Aubry Moorman,
Alicia Riley, Sara Gelsamino, Katie Rings,
Brea Rivera, Tori Tobin, TJ Fincher, Megan
McEvilly, Drake Roketa, Zach Meyer,
Jordan Herath, Britney O’Brien, Alex
Gajcak and everyone else. You all played
very important parts throughout my life,
and even though we don’t all hang out
24/7 or even talk anymore for some of us,
without you guys, my four years of high
school would be completely different.
“Goodbye” continued on
pg. 13
High school: A time to grow
by
Kristi Lawrence /
Cover Design
Looking back on the past four years at
MCHS, I have experienced quite a bit. I have
been enlightened by certain situations such
as greater friendships and relationships. I
have grown as a person both physically and
mentally, and have gained plenty of wisdom
that I will carry with me throughout my life.
Most importantly, I have overcome many
obstacles that have created the person that
I am.
As a freshman, I was all over the place;
meeting new friends, and going to school
activities such as football games and
wrestling meets. I was a social butterfly and
hung around with anyone and everyone. As
sophomore year began, I spent most of the
year with my best friend Amanda Alexander.
We did everything together, from
going to church to going out late at
night. It was a bond that nobody could
break. Junior year was starting to get
more difficult because of academics
and my job; but it was a really fun
year for me. I met my boyfriend and
had my best friend along side of me,
along with family, and had the support
I needed to make it through a difficult
academic year.
Now it’s the end of the year, the
year I waited most of my life for. As
the end of high school draws near,
there are many mixed feelings. It
should be the greatest time looking
forward to graduating, and going off
to college to make a new start for Kristi Lawrence plans to
myself. I am really excited to get out attend Joliet Junior College in the fall.
of here.
This
year
has
had several setbacks
and obstacles that I
had to overcome, so
graduation
couldn’t
come soon enough.
I had to do this year
differently
from
everyone else, and it
has been a struggle,
but it is only a life
lesson to take with me.
There have been many
people to remember
and many people to
forget over the years. I
found out who my true
friends and family are,
and how to be true to
myself.
This is my fourth year in Journalism,
and to put this in a positive perspective, we
have all become a really close family in this
class. So close that we can say that we hate
each other for not meeting a deadline, mean
it, and accept it. We tend to give each other
very constructive criticism, but we all love
each other in the end.
I advise underclassman to take school
more seriously, unlike I did. My social life
seemed to be more important, although it
was a really fun time! Staying focused
and responsible has helped tremendously
throughout my high school years at
MCHS.
I plan to attend Joliet Junior College
in the fall, and transfer to a university for
two more years to receive a degree in Law
Enforcement.
8
Peace Pipe Chatter, May 12, 2009
Seniors
Meet the Seniors
by
Photos and design by D.J. Valera
Sam Burchardt
Erin Dedin
Hometown: Berwyn, Illinois
Favorite Movie: Forrest Gump
Favorite Music: Everything.
Jr. High: Troy Middle School
Interesting fact:
“I can stand on my head for the
duration of the fifth Harry Potter
movie.”
Plans after high school: SIUE
Hometown: Minooka
Favorite Movie: The 10th Kingdom
Favorite Music: Rock
Jr. High: Channahon Jr. High
Interesting fact:
“I want to be a writer.”
Plans after high school: St.
Francis University
D.J. Valera / School News Editor
Chris Devier
Andrew Allsop
Hometown: Channahon
Favorite Movie: Boondock Saints
Favorite Music: Trance
Jr. High: Channahon Jr. High
Interesting fact:
“I can build a computer.”
Plans after high school: None
Hometown: Channahon
Favorite Movie: Monty Python and
the Holy Grail
Favorite Music: Rock
Jr. High: Channahon Jr. High
Interesting fact:
“Been in track for 4 years.”
Plans after high school: Milwaukee
School of Engineering
Mike Kashuda
Amber Michalec
Jamie Selfridge
Connor Sewing
Hometown: Channahon
Favorite Movie: American Beauty
Favorite Music: Everything but
country.
Jr. High: Channahon Jr. High
Interesting fact:
“I’m not that interesting of a person.”
Plans after high school: College
Hometown: Minooka
Favorite Movie: Bring It On
Favorite Music: Country
Jr. High: Graves
Interesting fact:
“I’m left-handed.”
Plans after high school: JJC
Hometown: Minooka
Favorite Movie: Malibu’s Most
Wanted
Favorite Music: Rap
Jr. High: Channahon
Interesting fact:
“My elbow’s double jointed.”
Plans after high school: UIC
Hometown: Channahon
Favorite Movie: Kiss Kiss Bang
Bang
Favorite Music: Ska
Jr. High: Channahon Jr. High
Interesting fact:
“My car got searched because it had
rotting pasta.”
Plans after high school: Loyola
College
Peace Pipe Chatter, May 12, 2009
A&E
Meet the Seniors
by
Justin Harkins
9
Designed by Eric Klank and Ryan Miller
Kate Thomas
Josh Manion
Ryan Miller / CR Editor
Stan Rakidzic
Hometown: Berwin, IL
Favorite Movie: Billy Madison
Favorite Music: Alternative
Interesting Fact: None
Future Plans: North Central College
Brian Bonds
Hometown: Joliet
Favorite Movie: Star Wars V: The Empire
Strikes Back
Favorite Music: Classic Rock
Junior High: Caraway
Interesting Fact: “I go by many aliases such
as Bondsy”
Future Plans: Elmhurst College to become
math teacher.
Hometown: Channahon
Favorite Movie: The Outsiders
Favorite Music: Folk-Metal
Junior High: Channahon
Interesting Fact: “I assemble computers”
Future Plans: JJC; hopefully a teacher
Ashley Eining
Hometown: Channahon
Favorite Movie: Without a Paddle
Favorite Music: Rap
Junior High: West Middle, MO
Interesting Fact: “I played volleyball for
eight years”
Hometown: Joliet
Favorite Movie: Dirty Dancing
Favorite Music: Alternative
Interesting Fact: “I hate feet”
Future Plans: DePaul University
Hometown: Channahon
Favorite Movie: October Sky
Favorite Music: Metal
Junior High: Channahon
Interesting Fact: “I want to be a professional golfer”
Future Plans: New Mexico University
Anasofia Wahlstrom
Rick Albekier
Hometown: Channahon
Favorite Movie: The Rocky Horror
Picture Show
Favorite Music: Classic Rock
Junior High: St. Mary of the Angels
Interesting Fact: “I’m ambidextrous”
Hometown: Minooka
Favorite Movie: Boondocks Saints
Favorite Music: Power Metal
Junior High: Channahon
Interesting Fact: “I like Cats”
10
MCHS in ONE word...
Peace Pipe Chatter, May 12, 2009
Seniors
Jacki Kaluzny/
PPC Features Editor
t”
r
o
h
S
“
“Ta
Megan Dawson
“
Ivette Contreras- Unforgettable
Soozie Bahret/
South Editor
The Real Game of
I’m sure most of those reading this
have enjoyed Milton Bradley’s The Game of
Life. It starts out with a player spinning the
wheel and then having to choose which path
they want to take: career right away, or large
loan for college first.
Playing as a kid, one cannot understand
how real the situation is. But high school seniors today face the same complex questions
raised by this simple game. Young adults,
ages 17 to 21, must make a host of serious
decisions that will affect the rest of their lives.
That fact is a scary one. After asking
students online what they believe they will do
after graduation, 44 percent replied with the
statement that they just do not know. According to data released by the Bureau of Labor
Statistics, in October 2008, 68.6 percent of
2008 high school graduates were en-rolled in
colleges or universities.
Let’s look at the facts.
Fact 1: High school graduates earn less than
college graduates.
The choice of career or
college will have a long-term effects on your
salary. What seems like a simple choice
today can have devastatingly different outcomes.
Fact 2: Popular careers change. What careers
are blossoming and which are fading? Smart
college-bound students would do well to
know more about the careers their classmates
are pursuing, and how certain career interests
have shifted over the years. Consider how the
top 5 career choices from the classes of 2001,
1996 and 1991 might influence your career:
(Results are based on the Post-Secondary
Planning Survey® conducted by the National
Research Center for College and University
Admissions)
2001 Grads:
1. Medical Physician (5.02%)
2. Lawyer/Legal Services (4.43%)
3. Computer Science (3.46%
4. Teaching/Education (3.26%)
5. Nursing/Health Care (3.25%)
1996 Grads:
1. Medical Physician (5.16%)
2. Lawyer/Legal Services (5.13%)
3. Nursing/Health Care (4.22%)
4. Teaching/Education (3.65%)
5. Athletics/Coaching (3.57%)
1991 Grads:
1. Business Administration (5.14%)
2. Accounting/Finance (5.01%)
3. Lawyer/Legal Services (4.49%)
4. Business Owner/Entrep (4.27%)
5. Psychology/Psychiatry (4.25%)
Memorable
Paula Bernhard- Busy
Maggie Raynor- Unfulfilled
Kari Kotrba- Exquisite
Elijah Bebora- Slow
Chad Liptak- Spectacular
Brian Bokoski- Awesome
Rob Russell- Long
Brandon Johnson- Satisfying
Maggie Null-
s
igan
an
n
e
Sh
Eye-opening
China Oughton- Sweaty
Orlando Lara- Fantastico
Allie Scherer- Priceless
Sam Tippy- Indescribable
Patrick Selzer- Redonkulous
Sarah Diedrich-
Kari Lukancic
Not Just Spinning a Wheel
by
Jordan Kuter- Drama
“Cro
”
g
n
i
z
i
ntal
”
!
r
e
“M
After 4 Years, what
do they have to say?
”
wded
Holly Blasky
Adam Smith
Designed by Soozie Bahret
“
Anthony Zanelli
Fact 3: Students change majors in college.
A good number of students fail to even start
college because they have not come to a
decision about their college major or their
career. Over half of college students are
estimated to change their major at least once
in college, and many change more than one
time while attending college. It’s a fact that
if a student does not know what to major in,
starting college will help them discover their
true interests.
Fact 4: One fourth of freshman leave their
first college. In 1996, at public colleges,
72% of freshman returned to the same
college as sophomores the following year
and 76% at private colleges, as reported in
the 1998 National Enrollment Management
Report. This means that over one-fourth of
all college freshmen change colleges in the
first year alone.
Fact 5: Many students drop out of college.
Marriage, starting a family, and lack of
financial resources are among the major
reasons students site for dropping out of
college. But even good intentions to return
to college can’t overcome the realities of
starting a family or a large car payment.
Students with “some college” can expect to
earn $36,800 per year, which is 30% less
than those who complete college. Before
dropping out of college, or even taking a
year off, students should seriously consider
the possible outcome.
Fact 6: Students transfer between colleges.
Another reason students fail to begin college
is they have not found the “right college.”
Interestingly however, many college students
transfer to a new college at least once, and
some even transfer twice before completing
their college degree. While it’s important
to find the best college for a students ideals,
they should not fear the possibility of transferring or starting at a two-year college.
Fact 7: Involvement in extra-curricular activities is a plus.
Getting good grades in college is important, but so is getting involved
in college life. Students are more likely to
finish college and do better in their studies
when they are involved in at least one or two
extra-curricular activities. Employers will
look at GPA and work experience on a resume, but will also look at outside activities
for leadership traits in prospective employees. Select a college where you will have
an opportunity to explore non-classroom
experiences.
Fact 8: You need to be prepared for the
future. It comes a lot faster then you’ll want
it to. The real Game of Life is too important
to leave to chance, by the spin of a wheel, or
hasty decisions.
Peace Pipe Chatter, May 12, 2009
Seniors
11
Designed by Iman Bradley
Great advice from teachers for College
Sydney Trepel /
A&E Editor
From the young age of 5 until the age
of 18, teachers play one of the most influential roles in the lives of their students.
Sure, at times they seem like they’re only
there to tell you what to do and to make
your life miserable with loads upon loads
of homework and tests, but teachers do
more for students than they’re usually
given credit for.
Through their constant guidance and
advice, teachers help to mold the adults
their students become--most importantly
the senior class. With this year quickly
coming to a close, teachers had some
last pieces of advice to give the graduating class of 2009.
by
When you get to college, don’t
look at the mattress.
Don’t teach your parents to use the
computer.
--Mr. Matt Marino, social studies
“Don’t ever let anyone tell you that
you can’t. Set goals for your life both
long-term and short-term. Celebrate
your successes—do not concentrate
on your setbacks. Remember to be
kind—you never know who you will
meet again and kindness matters.”
--Mrs. Kimberly Puckett,
dean
“Don’t worry, worrying never robs
tomorrow of its sorrow—it only drains
today of its joy! Take the sour with the
sweet. Without the sour, the sweet just
isn’t as sweet!”
--Mr. Mark Brown, social
studies
“I think a lot of seniors are very
concerned about how they are going
to pay for college and even if college
is worth it—will there be jobs in an
improved economy when they graduate? I hope most will decide that the
risk is worth it. Don’t let the uncertainty of the economic situation right
now intimidate you out of pursuing
your career goals. You may need to
be a lot more practical about the path
you take to achieving these goals, but
don’t compromise. Keep your dreams
in sight and aim for them. You will
be rewarded for your perseverance!”
--Mrs. Glenda Smith, social
studies
“Be humble enough to remember
your past and inspired enough to think
about your future.”
--Ms. Sabrina Dubik, English
“In college, attend class! That’s what
you’re there for. In all of life, remember that the choices you make will
determine the life you lead; therefore,
make wise choices.”
--Mrs. Nancy Lehmen, English
“You never know what twists and
turns life will take—try to make the
best out of them. Plans and goals
might change but keep working
hard and setting new ones. Surround
yourself with good people and make
smart choices.”
--Ms. Hillary Hyland, P.E.
Seniors give advice to juniors for next year
by Iman
Bradley / A&E Editor
Juniors, are you really ready for your
senior year? Here’s some good, helpful
advice from this year’s seniors to juniors
on how to survive their senior year.
“Live your last year to the
fullest, it goes by too fast”Rachel Jarz.
“Have fun don’t let drama
come between you and
graduating”- Beth Swango.
“Live your life like there’s no
tomorrow and watch out for
your true friends”- Airamoselle Reyes.
“My main advise is to stay
focused and don’t slack off
because then you can affect your
graduation status. Also, senior
year is going to fly by so tough
it out! AVOID GETTING SENIORITIS!”- Rakelle House.
“Eat your mini wheats”- Ryan
Forgue
“Never get ready for class
because it’s a waste of time”China Oughton.
“Make sure you appreciate
your friends to the fullest,
because after high school,
you will all go your separate
ways”- Amanda June.
“Do homework, it pays off!”Chris Prion
“Have fun and live life, once
you come back from spring
break your high school career
is over”- Jessika Walton.
12
by
Peace Pipe Chatter, May 12, 2009
Seniors
Designed by Allison Papp
Finally...
Allison Papp /Interactive Editor
The hardest assignment I have had in
three years of journalism was being asked
to sit down and write a reflection about my
time here at MCHS. When it comes down
to it, all I can really say is I wouldn’t have
been able to endure high school without my
friends (and the occasional good teacher).
Some I have had my whole life, and some
I have met thanks to this school. I want to
take this opportunity to recognize those
in my life that have
made my high school
years great.
I have been best
friends with my
fellow journalism student Lauren Keers for
12 years and counting.
We have been through
a lot together in this
town, and though we
will go our separate
ways next year, I sincerely believe we will
continue to be friends
for as long as we live.
Megan McEvilly
has been a constant
in my high school
career. From having
babies in health class
freshman year, to
getting in scientific
insult fights with Mr.
Petrovic, to our jokes
about “silverfox,”
not to mention our
unique passion for
anything involving
Barack Obama. We
plan on continuing
our schooling together
next year, and I know
we’ll make many
more memories in the
years to come.
Patty Esparza has
been the Lloyd Christmas to my Harry
Dunne since sophomore year. Senior
year has been our best
year together yet, with
Allie plans to attend JJC in the fall and then
transfer to Northern Illinois University.
all the Ron stories we shared with numerous teachers (especially Murph) and quoting the entire movies Dumb and Dumber
and Hot Rod during class.
I have had many other friends through
my high school career that are certainly
worth mentioning: Sam Kelley, Angela
Mateo, Amanda Alexander, baller and
shot caller Mike Burns, Kelly Chesnut,
Sara Gelsimino, Aubry Moorman, Alicia
Riley, Lyndsay Kooi, Katie Rings, and
many more. Also those people from my
past years at Minooka: Jordan Herath, Matt
Mullane, and Sarah Svoboda.
I also have to give a “shout out” to Mr.
Thomas. I like to think of our relationship
as sort of a J.D/ Dr. Cox thing, and though
we’ve had our ups and downs, I will miss
him. And god knows he’s going to miss
me!
Other teachers I need to mention: both
Mr. Petrovics, Mr. Kargle, Mrs. Militello,
Mr. Caresscia, Mrs. Bolek, Mrs. Prosek,
and Ms. Komperda.
In classic awards show speech fashion, I know there is a lot of people I am
forgetting, so I am very sorry! I greatly
appreciate all the people I have befriended
at Minooka, and I’m really going to miss it
here.
“High school” cont’d from pg. 6
Another thing I learned is no one knows who they
are or where they belong in high school. It is about
trying to find yourself. We are all still trying to figure
ourselves out, at least I know I am. Sometimes when
you are in that process of finding yourself, you will
make a lot of mistakes along the way, which brings me
to the next thing I have learned here at Minooka.
I have learned to make as many mistakes as
possible. The minute you stop making mistakes is the
minute you stop learning. I’m not encouraging you to
go do something stupid, but I’m telling you not to be
afraid of making mistakes. I’ve made my fair share of
mistakes but I have learned and grown from each and
every one of them.
Another influence of mine is room 197, the teacher
Mr. Thomas, and lastly, the people in it. This class has taught me not to be afraid of taking
chances and going outside of my comfort zone. I have
challenged myself and done things I never would have
done three years ago if it weren’t for this class. Just like
my best friends have, this class has also brought me out
of my shell. Every time someone is challenged to do
something different that they are not comfortable with
Mr. Thomas always used to, and still does, give us a
speech about going outside of our comfort zone.
“Most people live inside a comfort zone. There
they are nice and cozy, but don’t really improve
themselves. It is only when you step outside of your
“Moving on” cont’d from pg. 3
The next part is my memories. I won’t bore
you with the moments I’ll never forget but there
are of course a few worth mentioning. I will never,
ever forget making best friends in the auditorium
at musical practice at 1 am. Our food wars, pillow
fights, and random talks are what made me one of my
best friends. I would never change those nights.
Then of course, there’s mine and Angela’s
near death experience in cardio class because the
stair master wasn’t plugged in. Hanging up at the
top screaming about how we can’t get it to stop
moving and Angela running stair after staring getting
absolutely now where. Cardio is definitely a class I
will never forget.
The last memory that I will never forget is
everything from our AP English class senior year.
Muffin Day, Shakespeare memory games, and
our cereal bar are probably some of the best times
I’ve has in school. Here’s to everyone in that class
including Dubs, it was amazing beyond belief!
I have a few goodbyes. To my friends, high
school would have been nothing without you. High
school was so much more about the experiences then
the learning. I have so many times I will never forget
and there’s a few of you that I know I would not have
survived this crazy ride without you.
Tori Tobin, we’ve been friends since our
freshmen year in Honors Biology and we’ve stuck by
each other’s side ever since. We’ve made it through
suicide threat in Chemistry, awful all night review
sessions for AP history, torturous nights at Barnes
and Noble reviewing for Calculus, and so much more
as AP girls together. I know that we both would have
most likely ended up dropping if we hadn’t had each
other. The fact that we went from good friends to
best friends senior year, is everything to me. You’ve
gotten me through so much this year and listened to
me talk when I really needed someone to be there.
I don’t know what I would have done without you
and I think we both agree that we’ve had some of the
most amazing, unique, and unforgettable times ever
together this year. Thank you for everything twin,
I don’t know what I would have done without my
sister.
comfort zone that you force yourself to try something
new. New things usually don’t make people
comfortable; however, they do challenge the person to
improve. Outside of you comfort zone is where people
grow — intellectually, emotionally, spiritually, and
physically.”
As corny as it sounds, this speech is something I
will take with me and use for the rest of my life. But
something else that will follow me when I leave here
are the memories from this class.
The people in this classroom have influenced me
in some way or another throughout the years. They
were the first people in this school I grew a bond
with. There are a few that I have grown closer to
than others, and a few I have grown apart from. But
at the end of the day, we are like a family. There are
moments where we are all crazy and goofy, where we
get along and know how to have a good time, and then
there are times where we get so angry with each other
that Thomas has to go buy a blow up punching bag
for us. But I am glad to say I entered high school with
them, and now I will be leaving with them. I wouldn’t
have it any other way.
So before I depart and go to the next phase in my
life, I would like to thank the staff, and every teacher
that I have had at Minooka for being a huge part of my
high school career, and helping me to lead a successful
life with what I have learned from them during these
past four years. These were honestly the best days of
my life.
To others at Minooka that have been there for so
much through high school, Kevin Vershay, Travis
White, Samantha Claysen, Amanda Cappel, Alex
Pocta, Angela Mateo and any others I may have
forgotten: high school would have been horrible
without you guys. We’ve all had our ups and downs
but through it all we’ve been there for each other. I
love you guys and I will never forget the times we’ve
had. Thanks for being there through everything, good
and bad.
I made two families in high school, my choir
family and my journalism family. I love you both
and being a part of both of those groups has meant
everything to me. Our times together and our
friendships with each other will always be something
very special to me.
Also, thank you to my family for everything. My
parents for always being by my side and my sister
for being my best friend. Also, my grandparents for
always being at all of my events to support me. I love
all of you. Thanks as well to my west friends. A best
friend that got me through one of the hardest things
in my life and a boyfriend and best and closest friend
that if it weren’t for him, I wouldn’t be here today. I
will always be grateful to you two.
The last thing I would like to include is advice.
To all of you underclassmen, don’t take anything for
granted, not a second. Things change so quickly and
four years go by fast, so always live in the moment.
I went into my senior year thinking I knew who I
was and I’m coming out of it knowing that I was so
wrong. I spent this year finding out who I was, who
my true friends were, and what was really important
in life.
I will miss high school so much and all of the
people in it. It hurts to think about not seeing some
of my best friends every day like I do now. For the
one’s moving away it will kill me not to see you but
I promise that we will stay in touch and I will come
visit all of you, even all the way out to California
with a cow stuffed animal to remind you of home
Alex.
My last words as a PPC writer are to never forget,
never regret, never give up, take ever moment in,
take nothing for granted, love like you’ve never been
hurt, and live as if there is no tomorrow. Believe in
yourself and follow your dreams.
Peace Pipe Chatter, May 12, 2009
Jump
Designed by Angela Mateo
“Goodbye” continued from page 7
do.
I wish you all the best of luck with everything you
Now for my core group of friends, the people
who I’d die without: Hannah Erickson, Sam Biesack,
Elliot Allen, Brad Greenup, Megan Bersano, Courtney
Horvat, and Mike Potter. You all are seriously the best
of friends ever. My senior year could not have been
any better if I didn’t have you all there by my side. We
have some of the greatest, funniest moments together,
and I know I will keep in touch with you all next year.
Thank you for always being there. It’s going to be
great spending my summer before college with all of
you; I wouldn’t want it to be any other way.
Angela Mateo, Sam Kelley, and the rest of
the staff, thanks for such an eventful four years of
journalism. We are a very dysfunctional family, but
I enjoyed getting to know and growing close with
everyone. For the seniors, good luck with all you do
next year and with the rest of your lives, and for the
rest of the staff, keep up the hard work, you guys will
do great next year.
Finally, to the teachers: Yes, most students
complain about their teachers being “so mean” and
“giving too much homework,” and I can say I’m guilty
of that, too. But in reality, I am thankful for every
teacher I have had. In some way, they have all helped
me become a better student, and some have even
helped make me a better person, and I just wanted to
thank them all for everything they helped me with.
“Stokke” cont’d from pg. 4
workers are lucky enough to know how fortunate
they are to have him impacting their lives.
High school wasn’t as difficult as it sounds coming
in. However, it was rough around the edges. I learned
not to have expectations. They usually result in a
let down, and when you don’t expect something is
usually when the great things happen. For example, I
couldn’t wait for my senior year in basketball. It was
going to be the time of my life. Then Coach Monti
stepped down and it took some of the excitement away.
However, entering the season I couldn’t wait. I was
expecting not only to have fun, but to be successful as
a team and individually. Unfortunately, things didn’t
work out the way me and many of my teammates
had hoped. However, there was some good that came
out of the season. I believe we grew closer as a team
as many of us were on the same page, even if there
were one or two a page off.Besides learning to not
have expectations I learned that there are people that
will tell you what you want to hear, and people that
don’t have the same view as me. I prefer consistency,
while others may say one thing and their actions
are completely different. While it was difficult, that
was something I’m grateful I learned now. I made it
through the year and the result was a 4-year basketball
player. Only three of us could say that this year.
“Without you” continued from page 5
high school career was unforgettable.
It may have taken me 18 years to get here, but I
know who I am, what I want, and could not be more
content.
Thank you for educating me, enouraging me,
and providing me with the knowledge I’ll never
forget: Ms. Nancy Lehman, Ms. Nicole Bolek, Mr.
13
Mr. Thomas, thank you for all you have done. Not
only have you helped improve my journalism skills,
but you have also given me life lessons on stepping
outside of my comfort zone, which I am really going
to need next year. We have had many differences
throughout these years, but I am really glad my
experience on this staff included having you as a
teacher. You always gave us a laugh whenever you
tried to sound “hip,” and I’ll never forget when you
brought in a punching bag when we were all together
for an entire day. Thank you again for everything, and
good luck with your upcoming journalism classes,
because we all know you are going to miss us most!
Mr. Kargle, you have probably impacted me the
most these past years. Not only were you a great
teacher, but also you were always a person for me
to come to when I needed help with anything, even
when it didn’t have to do with school. Thank you
for always being there, letting me help with guys
volleyball, and giving me a great recommendation
for college. I don’t know what I would have done
without you. Just know I am going to continually
keep in touch with you over the years, so don’t worry
you will never get rid of me! But in all honestly,
there aren’t enough times I could thank you for
simply everything.
All in all, underclassmen, just have fun. These
years go by so fast, and make sure you make the best
of the time you have. Don’t have regrets; just go out
there and have the time of your life, because before
you know it, you’ll be graduating from these walls,
too.
Expectations also almost caused a heart attack at
the age of 18. I qualified for state in journalism sports
writing and I went in with the first-or-bust attitude. I
finished third and looking back it shows how hard I’ve
worked and how far I’ve come. Two years ago I didn’t
know I could write. Thanks to Ms. Erion and Mrs.
Gabel, I was told I had a gift. Now that gift is taking
me to a career I love hopefully. And if not, it was fun
while it lasted.
My time at Minooka was great. I hate when people
say they hate our school or our town. Not everywhere
is like Laguna Beach. We have a great school, a lot
of good teachers, and plenty of opportunities here. I
think more people would appreciate it if they were
somewhere else.
Then again, maybe I was just lucky. I had few
teachers I didn’t enjoy, I can’t thank most of my
coaches enough, I was fortunate enough to have great
parents and great friends, which allowed my wing-it
approach to be so successful.
My “wing-it” approach probably isn’t for
everyone. It has its ups-and-downs. But it’s the
approach I take and I like where it has led me. At this
point, I have few regrets and plenty of memories. So
what do I have in store for my future? Who knows, but
I’m going to wing it. If I didn’t, that wouldn’t be very
consistent now would it?
Dan Kemock, Ms. Jill Nerhing, Ms. Jen Gabel, and
Ms.Carrie Prosek.
Thank you for being my friend, staying with
me through thick and thin, and always being there
when I needed you: Jon Shanahan, Kevin Windberg,
Daniel Hayes, Stephanie Ly, Sarah Silverman, Sam
Kelley, Jeremy Lakoskey, Lauren Keers, Allie Papp,
Ashley Hutton, Alex Mateo, Matt Kasmer, and
Victoria Regalado.
14
Prom 2009
Peace Pipe Chatter, May 12, 2009
Prom
Designed by Jacki Kaluzny
This year’s prom was held at Jennifer’s Garden in Morris. Josh Keck and China Oughton were
crowned king and queen while Alex Hill, Erick Smith, Lyndsay Kooi, Omar Villalobos, Lauren
Keers, Sam Biesack, Kelly Minor, and Mitch Pursell made court. Hannah Frantini and Sean
Coyle made junior court.
Music of the Night
Peace Pipe Chatter, May 12, 2009
Seniors
15
Designed by Taylor Roop
Top 50 students of the senior class
Taylor Roop /
News Editor
by
The school year is almost over and
grades are becoming almost finalized for
seniors. This is a list of the top 50 students
in the senior class. This is based of the first
seven semesters of grades.
1. Jillian Forkal
2. Stephanie Pierce
3. Gregory Alexander
4. Clinton Cabrera
5. Jordan Martinet
6. Paula Bernhard
7. Paden Hanson
8. Kara Tasharski
9. Reginald Sey
10. Erick Smith
11. Nicole Furr
12. Andrew Buchanan
13. Kristen DaVanon
14. Shannon Calus
15. Corie Obrien
16. Katherine Scholtes
17. Tyler Cap
18. Emily Bromberek
19. Maggie Null
20. Rachael Williams
21. Kari Lukancic
22. Kristen Kucek
23. Ashley Hutton
24. Amy Strohman
25. Megan Dawson
26. Spencer Jordan
27. Nolan Jones
28. Kara Engel
29. John Ephraim
30. Matthew Stonitsch
31. Sarah Condreay
32. Lyndsay Kooi
33. China Oughton
34. Vanessa Marciniak
35. Colleen Wagner
36. Lauren Govednik
37. Daniel Hayes
38. Samantha Residori
39. Sarah Diedrich
39. Julian Hoshell
39. Matthew Kubacki
39. Victoria Tobin
43. Rachel Evans
44. Astoria Attkinson
44. Juseph Ruettiger
46. Brent McMurtry
47. Emilee Watson
49. Jessica Pasteris
50. Allison Scherer
Achieving dreams: MCHS athletes moving up to college sports
Tommy Stoke /
Sports Editor
by
With the school year coming to a close,
seniors find themselves making choices for
the future. All athletes grow up practicing
in the backyard with the vision of playing
college athletics. Whether it is serving on
the Penn State volleyball team, running
back for the Ohio State Buckeyes, or starting pitcher for the University of Texas,
everyone has those aspirations.
This year, MCHS has been
fortunate enough to advance numerous
individuals onto the college ranks. Each
individual worked hard both on the field
and in the classroom and can now reap the
benefits as they move onto another chapter
in their athletic careers.
Brea Rivera, University of St. Francis,
Volleyball- “I’ve been working really hard
since freshman year to get a scholarship
and all my work paid off.”
Lyndsay Kooi, Quincy, Volleyball“It is a dream come true and I thank my
coaches, teammates, parents, family, and
friends for supporting me. I look forward
to the opportunity to play for four more
years.”
Danielle Giacomi, University of St.
Francis, Cheerleading- “All my hard work
paid off and I have to thank my mom for
pushing me when I wanted to give up.”
Elliot Allen, University of St. Francis,
Football- “It is something I’ve wanted
since I was a little kid. My mom put a lot
of effort into the college search and Rich
Flemming has been my personal trainer
for the last four years to help me get here.”
Rachael Williams, University of San
Diego, Cross Country/Track- “I always
wanted to go far, and it will be nice to be
initially part of something at a new school.
It is an opportunity to continue to do what
I love for four more years, and I have to
thank coach Kevin Gummerson and my
parents.”
Chris Ruffino, St. Ambrose, Bowling“It’s a nice campus and it is exciting to be
able to start a new tradition there. Coach
Derrick Rapsky really helped me develop
off the lanes and build confidence along
with a positive attitude.”
Sam Biesack, St. Ambrose, Bowling“It’s a privilege and I’m really excited.
Coach Rapsky, Coach Barney, and my
parents all went out of their way to help
me get to where I am today.”
Robbie Brannick, Grand Canyon, Volleyball- “I have to thank all my coaches at
Minooka along with my club director for
turning me into a great volleyball player.
It shows that hard work leads to good
things.”
Dominic Cappellett, Northwood
University, Football- “I’ve worked hard to
get to where I am and I’m excited to just
go out and play as soon as I can. I have to
thank Coach Forsythe, Coach Kooi, Coach
Y, and Coach Resner.”
Alex Hill, Illinois Wesleyan, Volleyball- “Right when I walked on campus I
knew it was where I was suppose to be.
I’m glad to be able to continue my sport
and play for my school. My parents have
provided me with all the opportunities I
needed, and I couldn’t have done it without them.”
Brian Bonds, Elmhurst College, Football- “It was the best place for me and the
students and coaches made me feel right at
home. I can delay the inevitable to do what
I love for a couple more years. All my
coaches have been great.”
Dawson Sheetz, North Central College,
Football- “My hard work paid off and
my parents provided me what I needed to
succeed.”
Josh Keck, Carthage College, Cross
Country- “I’m privileged to continue
my running career. Carthage has great
facilities, a great team, and a great coach.
Coach Gummerson and coach Lundin
helped me reach the level I needed to
reach in order to get to the college level.
Joeie Ruettiger, University of Chicago, Wrestling- “It’s great knowing that
I was no ordinary high school athlete. My
coaches really developed me into a good
wrestler and I can’t thank them enough.”
16
Peace Pipe Chatter, May 12, 2009
Sports
Designed by Mike Noe
Past four years at MCHS leaves
seniors reflecting
by
Mike Noe and Ryan Miller / Sports
Editor and CR Editor
From day one of high school most
students are excited to start what is said to be
the greatest four years of their lives. At the
same time
students
can’t
wait
until senior
year
and
graduation
day so they
can move on
to bigger and
better things.
For
most
students, the
four years of
high school
go by fast
and before
they know it,
college is right around the corner. As senior
year comes to a close for the class of 2009,
it’s good to look back at their four years at
MCHS.
High school is a great opportunity to
meet new people and start new friendships,
especially at MCHS when you have students
from three different middle schools coming
together in one building.
“My favorite thing about high school
was getting to know new people and making
new friends,” said senior Matt McDonough,
“I learned that friends aren’t abundant, but
making new friends is enjoyable.”
“Coming in I thought it was gonna be
terrible because I was new and didn’t know
anybody,” said senior Sophia Caban. “I met
some good friends that made high school
fun and enjoyable.”
For freshmen coming in high school can
be overwhelming. Although the amount of
classes a day was shortened to just four, the
amount of time in each class was increased
significantly. To make things worse,
freshman went from top of the school, all
the way back to the bottom again. But to
most seniors, it didn’t turn out that bad.
“As an eighth grader
coming in I thought it was
going to be all mature.
But it wasn’t, people are
immature,” said senior
Breanna Rivera.
“I expected it to be
all bullies and fights and
everything,” stated senior
Uriah Kalahiki. “But it
wasn’t, it was all boring.
I was scared coming in.
But I had no regrets.”
Over the past four
years, Minooka has been
one of the most unique
high schools. With an
A/B schedule a split schedule, MCHS is like
nothing other. Seniors went from waking up
really late, to waking up really early, and
now waking up somewhere in the middle.
But one of the biggest changes is the creation
of the South Campus. With freshmen and
“There are less
people to pick on here
with the freshmen and
sophomores not here. I
feel like I’m losing my
high school experience,”
said senior Hannah
Erickson
“My favorite moment
was when I placed the
4 by 4 record in track,”
said senior Chris
Devier
sophomores at a different school than the
seniors, it leaves them feeling like a piece
of their high school lives was taken away
from them.
“There are less people to pick on here
with the freshmen and sophomores not
“I’ve met some good
teachers here that have
influenced me like
(Chris) Ferko, (Kevin)
Gummerson, and (Rick)
Undesser,” said senior
Brandon Johnson
here. I feel like I’m losing my high school
experience,” said senior Hannah Erickson.
Kalahiki agreed by saying, “It feels too
easy. I want someone to boss around. It
doesn’t even feel like high school.”
Minooka
is
known for many
extracurricular
activities such as clubs
and sports. There are
many seniors who
have played or are
currently
playing
their last season in a
Minooka High School
uniform. But if there
is one thing that some
students regret, is
that they never fully
experienced the four
years they could have had in Minooka
sports.
When asked if there was one thing that he
regrets not doing before graduating, senior
Mike Reisner said, “I started out freshman
year playing sports and from sophomore
year on I didn’t play any. It kind of took
away from the social aspect.”
“My favorite moment was when I
placed the 4 by 4 record in track,” said
senior Chris Devier.
While seniors are excited to graduate,
almost all look back at the good times
they had at MCHS.
“I’ve met some good teachers here
that have influenced me like (Chris)
Ferko, (Kevin) Gummerson, and
(Rick) Undesser,” said senior Brandon
Johnson.
“Going to Friday night football games.
Just hanging out and cheering with our
friends,” said Erickson.
“My favorite memory would be
running down the hallway with my best
friend Alex in masks that we made,” said
Rivera.
Seniors have waited 12 years until they
can say that they are officially done with
school. They have faced many challenges
these
past
four
years; projects, tests,
sports, teachers, and
jobs. Whatever it
may have been, they
have endured them
to the end, each with
a different moment
and memory to
share with other
generations as they
begin a new era in
the real world, be
it college or career.
With the concrete
foundation of these memories finished,
the steel structures of future experiences
will begin to be laid and reflect the critical
decisions and choices these seniors have
made these past four years.
“My favorite thing
about high school
was getting to know
new people and
making new friends,”
said senior Matt
McDonough