Mount Juliet High School Issue 2 October/November

INSIDE NEWS SPORTS FEATURING...

For the fi rst time in history, Bill Frist, the former U.S. senate major-ity leader who founded the State Collaborative on Reforming Education (SCORE), presented MJHS with a check for $10,000 on Sept. 20 at the Ryman Auditorium for having the highest level of academic achieve-ment in Tennessee high schools. MJHS was one of the three fi nalists decided by the SCORE commit-tee. After the three were selected, representatives visited the schools to personally evaluate classrooms. The representatives looked for tech-nology use in each classroom and were happy to see students working skillfully with all the technology MJHS provides its students. Along with the tours around the school, SCORE also used student interviews to better judge the school. Students were asked questions like what they liked best about the school and how students are able to fi nd help with various subjects. SCORE was especially impressed with teacher-student interaction. “The committee could not believe how teachers care so much for you and your success,” said Principal Mel Brown in his speech to the student body and faculty at the SCORE celebration ceremony on Sept. 21. At the ceremony, teachers and students alike were thanked by Prin-cipal Brown and each other. He highlighted a few of the major reasons MJHS succeeded: Value-Added testing, high attendance and great test scores on the ACT and in A.P. classes. This is a proud moment in MJHS history, not only for Principal Brown, but also for the whole staff and student body.

Scoring Number OneBy: Brooke Bolus

Magazines Raise Money At the beginning of the school year, MJHS held their annual maga-zine sale fundraiser which benefi tted both the sellers and the school. MJHS gained $10,000 from this fundraiser, which will go towards clubs and other needs around school. Cash prizes went to the top three selling students: fi rst place, 11, Becky Braswell, $150; second place, 12, Brett Smith, $100; and third place, 11, Gar-rett Jarnigan, $50. At each of the three turn in dates, students received smaller prizes such as candy or sleep in/leave early passes. Not only were students rewarded, but teachers and classes were also recognized for their hard work selling subscriptions. David Haines won a movie and dinner for two for hav-ing the most sales on the fi rst turn in date. Samantha Davenport and Amber Gailbreath also won a movie and dinner for having the top classes

on the second and third turn in days respectively. Gailbreath’s class eventu-ally won the honor of being the top selling class. They were rewarded with a $100 spending allowance for a party. Another prize for anyone who sold at least nine subscriptions is being able to participate in the huge pizza party, and any student selling twelve or more subscriptions will get to spin the wheel of fortune for a chance to win a cash prize. The date for the party is to be announced. Teresa Hill, organizer of the fundraiser, said, “I think it is great to reward the students for all the hard work they continue to contribute to Mount Juliet High School.” Whether it is selling magazines, having high academic scores or Bear Pride, MJHS will always strive to be the best, and the success of this year’s sale helps to ensure that.

By: Jordan Steakin

The hearts of MJHS were touched on Nov. 7 as a guest speaker introduced and told the moving story of Rachel Joy Scott. The speaker, Daryn Jackson, started the presenta-tion by honoring lost loved ones of the students, setting a somber mood. Columbine High School

was an average high school until April 20, 1999. That Tuesday marked the day of the worst school shooting in America’s history. Scott, sitting outside eating lunch with a friend, was the fi rst one killed. Scott always felt she would die young, but she still had big dreams of changing the world by kindness. She wanted to start a chain reaction. This young girl did not believe herself to be above her peers in any way. She bravely stood up for kids being bullied and sat with the new student at lunch. Her theory was if she could impact one person’s life by simply being compassionate, it would start a chain reaction. In honor of Scott, the presen-tation introduced a challenge to the teary-eyed crowd, to start a chain reaction. The students were given fi ve goals: look for the best in oth-ers, dream big, surround oneself with positive infl uences, perform small acts of kindness and start a chain reaction. After the program, 100 students were invited to the Friends of Rachel (FOR) Club orientation. The introduction started with a heart-to-heart about bullying and its effects. A few brave souls had the opportunity to share their stories and many tears were shed. After the open-mic session, the group felt more like a family. With the emotional baggage thrown aside, the group could then learn what the FOR Club is about. The club will reach out, stand up and transform MJHS into a loving environment. The initial 100 students will be the fi rst dominoes to fall and start the chain. The fi rst meeting on Nov. 11 was a success. Numerous students willingly rolled out of bed early for the meeting. There they talked about future meet-ings and future projects. Meetings will be the fi rst and third Thursday of each month at 7:35 in the theater and are open to everyone. One of the fi rst projects underway is to start a literal chain of kindness, where kind acts are recognized by fellow students and each one is turned into a link of the chain. MJHS and Mt. Juliet Middle School will work together to create a chain long enough to link the two schools together. Many, if not all, of the students took Rachel’s Challenge to heart. While an immediate change is not obvious, a chain reaction has been started. The chal-lenge has been issued, so do something kind today.

MJHS Takes on Rachel’s Challenge

By: Lena Ayoub

Class leaders came together imme-diately after the session to schedule

the club’s next meeting

STUDENTS STANDING OUT AMONG THE REST

PAGE 4

HOSA WALKS FOR DIABETES

PAGE 3

PERRY WINS 250PAGE 6

COLLEGE SIGNINGSPAGE 7

MJHS CHOIR GOES FOR THE GOLD

PAGE 8

YOUNG REPUBLICANS

REPRESENT MJHSPAGE 9

NEWS: 1-5SPORTS: 6-7

FEATURES: 8-9ACT: 10

COLLAGE: 12

By: Elaine Gunn

Art I students used their creative skills and put their works on display for MJHS students. This time their works were not only for other students to admire but to use as well. A book with a dull or no cover is generally seen as boring, so MJHS librarian Diana Green came up with a great idea that could benefi t Derek Elwell’s Art I class and others: colorful, laminated book covers. Even though his students did not read the books, they still made intricate, self-designed covers that were shown off in the library. These books are on display and able to be checked out like a typical library book. Elwell’s art class will continue to make more book covers along with doing other projects

that are benefi cial to the school, such as set designs for school plays.

“I like projects that solve problems,” says Elwell.

Elwell’s art class is sure to spark cre-ativity among MJHS students.

News2

art dresses up the libraryBy: Aaron Gunn

Buses full of juniors and seniors made their way to Cumberland University on Sept. 20, to give MJHS stu-dents the opportunity to prepare themselves for the next step after high school. Cumberland’s gymnasium was framed with booths from 50 colleges. “When I looked around to all of the colleges there, I felt excited, nervous, and a little overwhelmed,” said senior Holly Stauss. For some seniors, the college decision is already a sealed deal. But for those who have not decided where to pursue their education, colleges appealing to all dif-ferent interests were present. For those who wish to stay in state, Tennessee State University, University of Ten-nessee Knoxville, University of Tennessee Chattanooga and Vanderbilt University were just a few of the in-state colleges that held booths at the fair, passing out informa-tion. For the artist, the Art Institute and Nossi College of Art were recruiting students. Right around the corner, private schools Trevecca Nazarene University, Belmont University, Carson-Newman College and Martin Meth-odist College were also present. Some colleges travelled quite a ways to appear at the event such as the University of Alabama and the University of Arkansas. Juniors who attended the event had much to gain from it as well, “It was a great way for me to get the informa-tion I needed,” said junior Katie Gipson. With a high percentage of its students taking their education to the next level after graduation, MJHS had to take its preparation to the next level, past the classroom, by providing students with this helpful opportunity.

College FairBy: Elaine Gunn

On Sep. 23, the MJHS German classes celebrat-ed a traditional German Oktoberfest with food, games and a better understanding of this aspect of the German culture. Historically, Oktoberfest’s origins stem from the celebration regarding King Louis I’s marriage to Teresa. Through the years, Germans have remem-bered this event through Oktoberfest by adopting some of the wedding’s activities. With the help of the Master of Ceremonies, sophomore Tristin Anderson, the fi rst block class kicked off the festivities. “I really liked having the honor, and it was a lot of fun. I even got a hat for it!” said Anderson. Activities for the festival included a variety of

things. Students gathered around to sing some traditional songs, such as “Ich Libe Euch!; competed in a Fanta-chug-ging competition that would de-termine the day’s “brew master”; and feasted on

German dishes cooked by the class. First block’s brew master, Dakota Rainwaters elaborated on the day’s events, “I thought that it was a huge suc-cess, and I really enjoyed it all.” Students were assigned a dish from a traditional cook book to bring into class. These dishes ranged in variety from spätzle and white sausage to fried pickles and homemade gummy bears. Ingredients were generously provided by Europe Market on Lebanon Road. Janine Zahuczky, the German teacher at MJHS, put a lot of preparation into the yearly event. “The students love it and really get into it. At the same time though, they are learning hands-on about German culture,” said Zahuczky. The seventh annual Oktoberfest celebration for MJHS German students was both an excellent and educational time as they got a different perspective about German culture.

Students Toast To Oktoberfest

By: Chris West

November-It is not too late to schedule college visits if you are not already sure where you are attending.-If you apply to schools online, you must notify guidance to send your transcripts there.-Start learning how campus life compares to life at home.-Keep up good grades.December-Prepare for fi nals.-Know the spring ACT dates if you are retaking it.January-A FAFSA workshop is scheduled for all senior parents on Jan. 19 from 12 P.M. to 7 P.M.-Keep copies of all forms and papers you submit to colleges.-Mid-January, go to the guidance offi ce to have your tran-scripts sent.February/March-Check admission status-Many scholarships will become available this spring, so watch BNN for information.April-Notify the school you plan on attending by May 1.-Let other schools you applied for know you will not be at-tending.-Compare schools’ fi nancial aid packages.May-Take AP exams for which you qualify.-Sign and return your award letter from the fi nancial aid of-fi ce to your school.-Before graduating, notify the guidance offi ce where to send your transcript.Helpful Websites-collegefortn.org: college search website-actstudent.org: register for the December ACT-ncaaclearinghouse.org: register with NCAA clearing house-wcshools.com/mjhs: MJHS guidance website-fastweb.com: scholarship search-pin.ed.gov: apply for pin number for FAFSA-fafsa.ed.gov: complete the FAFSA

Senior Schedule

Zahuczky sets the stage for her the Fanta-chugging

contest

The feast created by theGerman class

JERRY & CHRIS HOUSTON

TOMMY GOODWIN

3930 N. MT. JULIET RD

MT. JULIET, TN 37122

PHONE: (615) 758-7226

JERRY & CHRIS HOUSTON

TOMMY GOODWIN

3930 N. MT. JULIET RD

MT. JULIET, TN 37122

PHONE: (615) 758-7226

By: Lena Ayoub

News 3

The annual national HOSA leadership project for the 2011-2012 school year is to raise diabetes awareness and funds for research. To promote awareness, MJHS HOSA members participated in a diabetes walk on Sept. 24 at the Bicentennial Mall in Nashville to show their support for the cause. They also worked hand in hand with Sweet CiCi’s to raise aware-ness and money. Sweet CiCi’s offered a percentage of its funds for one night to HOSA to help further its goal. In all, HOSA was able to raise about $550. All proceeds went to the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation. HOSA plans to continue raising money all year. To make a donation, con-tact any HOSA member or Jan Dickens, HOSA sponsor.

On Friday, Sept. 30 fi rst block classes took turns tak-ing part in MJHS’s annual Agriculture Day. Ag. Day is an event put on every fall by FFA to give students a hands-on account of all that the agricultural fi eld has to offer. The infamous catfi sh greeted stu-dents with kisses at the start of the tour. “It was an amazing experience,” said sophomore Hallie Raines, “best kiss of my life.” The groups also got the chance to view the various plants that the club has been growing throughout the course of the year, all of which were for sale. On the way out of the greenhouses, students were able to interact with the baby chicks and rabbits nurtured

by the club. Heading out into the cold, classes were greeted by cows, donkeys and sheep that they were freely allowed

to pet. Students then made

their way to the parking lot to view tractors from local farmers as well as to see cars that run on diesel fuel made from corn and Mrs. Pigg’s plant nursery.

“Without agriculture we would basically be hungry and naked so it is important that students realize its relevance and that it is everywhere,” said FFA member Emily

Connor. Students can look forward to learning new things at Ag. Day for years to come as agriculture is a crucial part of everyday life.

Ag Student Noah Curtis shows off his chicken

Senior Jessica Karsten holding one of the events cutest animals

Ag Student Noah Curtis shows off his chicken

Students Herd to Ag DayBy: Paige Brenner

HOSA Walksfor DiabetesBy: Brooke Bolus

On Nov. 1, 15 art and Spanish students spent an afternoon drawing three tapetes, Hispanic murals to celebrate Dia de los Meurtos. Dia de los Meurtos, or Day of the Dead, is a Latin American holiday which commemorates deceased loved ones. Celebraters and participants express their gratitude to their lost family members and friends by making candy skulls, colorful altars, and tapetes. MJHS has competed in a high school tapete competition at Cheekwood for the past two years. However this year, MJHS art and Spanish students decided to draw their own tapetes in the school’s parking lot. The contributing students met after school two weeks in advance

in Kimberly Grigg’s, room to brainstorm artistic ideas for their tapetes. Out of all their planning, three sketches were picked for the

project: the pieces created by seniors Aubrey Griggs and Ellen Lamar as well as junior Amanda Caldwell.

These three students also became the team leaders for the event. Dia de los Muertos annually takes place between Nov. 1-2, so on Nov. 1, the fi fteen students divided into three groups and began their anticipated task of putting their ideas on pavement using chalk and pastels. Aubrey Grigg’s group drew

a man with skeleton makeup; Llamar’s group made a picture of dead children’s spirits embarking on a road to a grave; and Caldwell’s group drew the festive skeleton from the Cheekwood pamphlet. After working for four hours the teams

fi nished at 7 p.m. The participants were exhausted but proud of themselves and their teammates. They had accomplished a diffi cult

Colorful Tapetes bring the Spirit of

Dia de los Muertos to MJHS During the fi rst Saturday of fall break, a county-wide competition took place at the Nashville fairgrounds. The competition consisted of groups shuttling around the county col-lecting as much trash as possible in two hours. MJHS’s Green Teem had 12 members compete against Lebanon High School, Boy Scout troops, churches, and other groups. The winning prize was $3,000 for fi rst place, $2,500 for second, and $1,500 for third, which was provided by the Lebanon Beautifi cation Commission, the Wilson County Watershed Conservancy, the Think Green, Think Clean Foundation and other organizations. Although the Green Teem did not place, the group succeeded in bringing in 700 pounds of garbage and continues to make a difference in the community and promote earth-friendly initiatives.

Green “Teem” Thinks CleanBy: Aaron Gunn

task in a short time. “I couldn’t have done it without the people who helped me,” said Caldwell. Kimberly Griggs was impressed with the quality of the fi nished product. “I couldn’t be more proud of them.” These students not only had a fun, hands-on learning experience but also received extra credit for the

tapetes. Their hard work truly did pay off. The next day, fellow MJHS students were able to view the three tapetes. The murals were a colorful surprise for students to critique, refl ect and admire. Overall, these three tapetes brought the Day of the Dead spirit to Mt. Juliet and gave remembrance to lost loved ones and their lives.

By: Olivia Thompson

News4

After MJHS held its own pep-rally celebration, an offi cial ceremony took place on Oct. 25 honoring MJHS’ number one academic ranking in Tennessee by the State Collaborative on Reforming Education (SCORE). Seniors, MJHS Student Council and members of BNN were in attendance as well as Representatives Linda Elam and Mark Pody and Senator Mae Beavers to witness and reward MJHS for its academic achievement. On behalf of MJHS, Principal Brown accepted a banner that read “Rising to the Challenge” and a fl ag awarded by Elam representing the state’s apprecia-tion that previously hung outside of the state capitol. Along with a $10,000 check, two certifi cates of recognition were awarded to MJHS, by Elam and Beavers, and will soon be framed and displayed in the school. Needless to say, MJHS is proud of the academic achievement and will strive to keep the title in future years.

MJHS SCOREs Again

Mt. Juliet’s FFA competed for the fi rst time at the National FFA Marketing Plan Career Development Event on Thursday, Oct. 20, 2011. Seniors Catherine Meredith, Laura Graf and Erin Hardin and sophomore Kayla Graf travelled to Indianapolis, Ind. late that Tuesday night to attend the competition armed with a marketing plan. To get to the national level, FFA competed and won the state competition earlier this year. The purpose of the competition was to develop a realistic mar-keting plan for an agricultural based business in the area. The team picked the Pigg Patch Plant Farm to represent. The plan was eight pages including a 253 slide PowerPoint. It covered the budget, resources needed and surveys. The extensive report was ranked third in the country and placed within the top ten overall. Unfortunately they walked away with nothing but pride and experience. Mitzi Pigg, FFA sponsor and chaperone of the trip, is extremely proud of her team. Hardin, an alternate, did not get to actually participate at the convention, but did get to help with the development of the plan. “Everyone was nervous [at the convention], but they calmed down and did amazing,” she said of her team-mates. FFA will compete at the state level again next spring with the intentions of going to nationals. FFA develops leadership, personal growth and career success. Pigg empha-sizes that FFA is much more than just farming, and this competition is just one way to prove that.

Senior Hunter Steinmetz was nominated for the Comcast Leaders and Achievers Scholarship. Only one senior was selected to be put in the hat for a grand $1,000 scholar-ship. Steinmetz’s application will compete with other students’ across Middle Tennessee. Steinmetz’s demonstration of leadership and passion made him stand out from the rest of his peers. After his mission trips to Kenya, Africa to deliver backpacks fi lled with school supplies to girls, he was inspired to start Humble Hands, a Christian mission club, at MJHS. Steinmetz plans to study math at Trevecca University, Nashville, Tenn.

FCCLA’s sixth annual faculty chili cook-off stirred up major success this year by reaching a nail biting conclusion that resulted in a tie breaker. FCCLA held its annual chili cook-off for faculty and staff to enter their fa-vorite chili recipes to raise money for the club to go to the organization’s state meetings. The club successfully puts on this chili cook-off, which last year led one of the members to the national competition in Anaheim, Calif. The cook-off was held on Oct. 28, and the competition was the fi ercest so far. There were seven entries total, but the two that stood out from the rest were Amanda Saladin’s “Cleaning out the Cabinet” and Carol Guin’s “Guin’s Great Chili.” The judges, Trey Tidwell and Sherry Best, along with local pro-fessional chefs Megan Lombardo and Ashley Dabuque, felt the competition was so close they had to call in professional chili taster and previous winner, Lori Scott. She then broke the tie leaving Saladin’s recipe in fi rst, Guin’s in second and “Smokehouse Chili” in third. Once the judging was fi nished, the faculty could then come to taste the fabulous chili. The array of the items up for sale for the faculty consisted of chili, grilled cheese, desserts and drinks. This year the club raised well over $400, their big-gest total so far. All in all, this year proved to be a successful one. Saladin and Lynne Ritter, sponsors of the sale, would like to thank all of those who entered and came out to support this year. They hope next year turns out to be just as successful, if not more.

By: Elaine Gunn

By: Lena Ayoub

Hunter Steinmetz

Ellen Llamar Senior Ellen Lamar was recently honored as a National Merit Scholar for her exceptional score on the PSAT. Throughout high school, Lamar has taken on a rigorous course load to chal-

lenge herself academically. All her hard work paid off after being recognized as a Commended Student for scoring within the top seven percent on the test. After high school, Lamar plans to major in chemical engineering at: Yale, New Haven, Conn.; Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta Ga.; or University of Tennessee, Knoxville, Tenn. Based on what she has already accomplished, it is obvious that Lamar will have no trouble continuing her success.

By: Austen Jones

David Belhu & Gideon Olaleye

Throughout their high school careers both David Belhu and Gideon Olaleye have dedicated themselves to learning and have been rewarded for their suc-cesses. Out of over 160,000 African-Americans, Belhu and Olaleye’s scores for the PSAT are within the top 3%. The National Merit Achievement recognized these teenagers’ for their out-

standing performance. The recognition is nationally applauded, and it will shine on resumes and college applications. “I felt like I made my sister proud,” said Olaleye. Belhu and Olaleye both have aspira-tions to attend the University of Chicago, Chicago, Ill. Belhu, feeling “gnarly” abut his status, wants to major in aerospace engineering, and Olaleye wants to major in literature.

Joseph Perricone

FFA Markets Its Business

FCCLA Cooked Up Chili Success

By: Savannah Wilson

Sophomore class president, Joseph Perricone was chosen to go to the HOBY Leadership Conference in May. The HOBY Leadership Conference is a yearly conference held at David Lipscomb University, Nashville, Tenn., where students come together and experience unique leadership training and motivational activities. Perricone was nominated for his exceptional leadership skills. According to Perricone, he leads by example. “I just try to be nice to everyone,” said Perricone. Perricone is ecstatic about representing MJHS at the HOBY Leadership Conference and hopes for a stellar experience.

Students Standing Out Among the Rest

By: Lena Ayoub

By: Lena Ayoub

By: Summer Adams

News 5

The MJHS student council is host-ing a competition, Pasta for Pennies, sponsored by Olive Garden to raise money for the Leukemia and Lym-phoma Society. Each third block class brought in donations, which is then transferred to the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society for the fi ght against blood cancer. Two winners were awarded: a percentage winner (so smaller classes have a chance at winning) and an overall winner. Both winners will re-

ceive a free catered lunch from Olive Garden. According to Theresa Wight, stu-dent council sponsor, the only goal is student participation, and that is just what is happening. One class, fi lled with compassion, even raised over $400. Pasta for Pennies is a great compe-tition showing that just a little bit of effort from everyone can make a big difference. Every penny counts!

Pasta For PenniesBy: Aaron Gunn

With Thanksgiving on its way, MJHS collected cans to help those in need. The food drive, which lasted a couple of weeks, collected nonperishable food items and money to donate to the Mt. Juliet Help Center. To encourage generosity and school spirit, classes had a friendly compe-tition against one another and against Wilson Central High School. The winners will be revealed at an upcoming pep rally. The class winner will earn points toward the spirit stick, and student council is planning to build a structure with a collection at a pep rally. With the two biggest holidays of the year fast approaching, MJHS is fi lled with the spirit of giving.

Bear FansCollect CansBy: Lena Ayoub & Austen Jones

Recently MJHS’s PTSO paid to have 84 e-books added to its already extensive library on the online catalog, Destiny. The selection ranges anywhere from books about world his-tory to iconic speeches. “This function is primarily for students as most of the books are non-fi ction and can be used in research papers or reports easily,” said librarian Diane Green. The school has an unlimited license on each of these books, allowing any number of students to access these books at the same time. Another perk of this technology is that students do not have to go into the library to use the resource. Anyone can log on at home using the username mjhlibh and the password bearpride. Once logged on, a current total of 184 e-books and 20 other valuable search databases are at students’ fi ngertips. The new, easy to use program is available everywhere so be sure to utilize it on any upcoming assignment.

Reading Made Easy

At fi rst impression, Jessica Breanne Griffi th might not be what you’d expect. She stands barely over 5’2” with a high pitch voice that makes you wonder what sort of music she will produce. Mother always said to never judge a book by its cover, and she was right. Griffi th is small, but her voice is mighty. Jessica Breanne and the Electric Hearts are soon to make it big. With a band having a similar instrumental sound to The Black Keys and a lead singer with a voice resembling a mixture between Amy Winehouse and Adele, what’s not to love? Griffi th has worked hard, winning third in Lindsley’s battle of the bands along with many other competitions here in Nashville. The band just released their new album which includes an incred-ible cover of Flume by Bon Iver, along with many other lovable songs written by Jessica Breanne and The Electric Hearts. Be sure to fi nd her on itunes, or better yet, pick up her cd at Grimey’s. She may just be the best new addition to your iPod!

The only thing better than great music is great, free music, and that is exactly what The Owsley Brothers provide. Jerald E. Reynolds, the lead singer of The Owsley Brothers, is climbing through the music business. With rising popularity among the blog community, he’s now reaching for a bigger crowd. Reynolds’ goal is simply to spread his sui generis tunes with the music fanatics. The Owsley Brothers severely bend a garage-blues genre, but it’s the closest category this incredible, exclusive band can fall under. You should fi nd out your-self; check out their band camp (www.owsleybros.bandcamp.com) where you can download their “Pure Lust” album. Go ahead and like them on Facebook too!

Better Than Flowers

Call 615-500-6662

Custom made gift baskets for all occasions!

Free delivery to Mt. Juliet Middle/High

School!

Gifts available in all price ranges.

Jessica Breanna and the Electric Hearts

The Owley Brothers

Local Bands Hit the StageGuest Writer: Abby Schultz

By: Paige Brenner HAIRSPRAYCOMING SOON

to a theatre near you!

musical

20

12Spri

ng

mjhsspring

Sports6

The MJHS football team has accomplished more this year than ever before. Finishing the regular season with an undefeated record of 10-0, Coach Roger Perry was awarded his 250th win as a head coach. “God has blessed me over the past 33 years with great coaches and great players,” says Perry. This being the fi rst district championship since 1995, Perry hopes to keep improving his team and continues to push his players to be successful. After dominating every team they played this year, the Bears have been

awarded with home fi eld advantage throughout the entire post-season. Although the Bears beat every team by 20 or more points in all of the regular season games, the Bears are being rumored to be the underdogs entering the playoffs. The Bears look to mute their critics and show everyone that they are a team to contend with, and they did just that in the fi rst round game against Oakland, winning 35-27.

Since August, the MJHS Cross Country team was kicking into high gear, and their effort and improvements over the year came down to their fi nal meet as a team on Oct. 27. The Regional meet was held at Saunders Ferry Park. Boys Varsity runners Elijah Wilson and John Abernathy, both juniors, received medals for their 17: 33 and 17: 41 fi nish times respectively. Sophomore Kaitlin Hynek received a medal for her fi nish of 21:15. Senior Max Andrade received a medal for his 19:20 fi nish. Junoir Mackenzie Turner’s 26:11 fi nish also won her a medal. “Many of us hit our personal bests, even though it was pretty cold weather,” said Andrade, who happened to set his personal best. For the seniors on the team, the end of the season was bittersweet. “I really enjoyed seeing the team improve and support each other,” said Andrade.

Other seniors bidding the team farewell included Hardic Chambers, John Gutman, Katherine Jankovich, Robert Lutter, Garret Perry, Brittany Sullivan and Colby Thompson. Their last hurrah was not the fi nal meet, however. These seniors will be recognized at the upcoming Cross Country Banquet. Cross Country has been hard at work since their fi rst practice Aug. 1, when they had to run indoors on occasion due to heat. But the work is not done for some runners. For the runners returning next season, the work to maintain their shape continues as well. “I hope I can defi nitely improve and keep it up!” said Katie Gibson, junior. A season fi lled with accomplishment and improvement has come to a close for cross country. As the seniors are soon to depart, the rest of the team hopes to maintain their shape and have and even better performance next year.

By: Chris West

4710 Lebanon PikeHermitage, TN 37076

(located in the Oakwood Commons Shopping Center.

three doors down from PEEBLES)615-889-4333

OPEN MONDAY - SATURDAYclosed Sunday

Indulgence Hair Salon and Day Spa

Jeanie Schoenbachler

$10.00 off Haircut and

Blowdry with Ad!

Expires: December 17, 2011

Only

Co-captain of the volleyball team and fi erce middle blocker, senior Kelsey Butler, recently fi nished her last season as a high school volleyball player at MJHS. Butler enjoyed her fi nal year of volleyball. She will be packing her bags for college in the fall, but Butler will never forget her experiences in high school or what she has learned over the course of these past four years. “I have learned to be a better leader not only for myself, but for my team,” says Butler.

Butler credits Coach Jennifer Wilson for helping her not only become a great volleyball player but also a good person in the process. For instance, during her junior year she dominated the court with four blocks in one play against Riverdale. Though her father

inspired her to play volleyball, Wilson has had a hand in her success over her high school career. “She has made me the volleyball player I am today,” says Butler. Butler will truly miss Wilson, her twin sister, senior

Aly Butler, and her teammates the most but is excited to be going off to college. “I am ready to stand on my own two feet,” adds Butler. She will be attending the University of Tennessee Chattanooga (UTC) and plans on majoring in elementary education with a minor in art. She intends to keep playing volleyball, even if it is not in college. Butler’s future is looking bright and fulfi lling. MJHS wishes best of luck to her in all she does.

athlete spotlight: kelsey butlerBy: Savannah Wilson

By: Tanner Primm

Cross Country Meets Finish Line

The MJHS volleyball team fi nished their season third in the district paired with a preseason performance that boosted them all the way to the semifi nals. Led by seniors Aly Butler, Kelsey Butler, Caya Williams and Kirbi Hudenall, the Lady Bears volleyball team won 21 out of 38 games. The seniors unanimously decided the highlight of the season was beating their rivals, the Wilson Central Wildcats. With two all district players and a three year starter leaving this year, Jennifer Wilson, the MJHS volleyball coach, will have to

fi ll newly vacant spots. “They will all be missed,” says Wilson. With this season over, Wilson is already looking forward to next season and working with her returning players. “We need to improve our serving, hitting consistency and over all speed of the game,” said Wilson. The MJHS volleyball team had a very successful season with a record of 21-16 and is hoping to have another great season next year.

By: Summer Adams

Volleyball Team Spikes a Victory

Bring this ad to your appointment!

Perry Wins 250

Coach Perry accepting his award for his 250th win.

To the left:

Above:

The team congratulates their coach on

his award.

Signed on Nov 10, Caleb Chowbay plans to attend Belmont University with a full scholarship playing basketball for the Bruins. Chowbay looks forward to his four years in college playing point guard in basketball all while receiving his major in business fi nance and minor in a foreign language of his choosing. He is not quite ready to leave his team behind, but he must move on to bigger and better things. “The past four years have been good at MJ, but it’s on to the next level now,” says Chowbay. He is now able to say he did what he set out to do at MJHS and expects his experience to be just as rewarding in college if not more.

Sports 7

To no one’s surprise, the unconquerable Band of Gold has proven its superiority. On Oct. 29, Band competed in the USSBA Class V Open Tennessee State Championship at Tennessee Technological University, which included 23 bands from across the state, and came out on top. With fi rst place in all judging categories and the highest scores of the day in Music Performance, Visual Performance, Color Guard and Percussion, it is no shock that the Band of Gold ended up with a remarkable score of 96.35, earning the title of Class V Open State Champions. Just as Band began the season with fi rst place, this is a fantastic way for them to fi nish the season. MJHS’s Band of Gold and color guard won fi rst place at their fi rst competition of the season at the Hendersonville Golden Invitation on Saturday, Sept. 17. The band and color guard, which consists of over 90 students, reigned supreme over the 18 other schools they competed against. MJHS not only placed fi rst overall, but also won in the hornline, drumline

and color guard categories. The Band of Gold previously won this competition in 2008. Every week, the students practice more than 15 hours working to improve upon cleaner visuals by

the color guard and louder band sounds, as well as honing their overall skills. Band has competed and placed in several other competitions throughout the season as well.

On Oct. 1, at Columbia Central High School, MJHS competed against about 15 other schools and came in fourth place. They also placed fourth on Oct. 15 at the Music City Invitational at McGavock High School, where ten other schools competed. At the Contest of the Champions held at Middle Tennessee State University, Murfreesboro, Tenn. on Oct. 22, where over 20 other schools competed, MJHS scored ninth place. With help from band director Tony Cox and Sherie Grossman, and the confi dence boost from winning their fi rst competition and ranking high in others, band and color guard are sure to have continued success in future competitions. Good luck to all students in band and color guard.

Band Wins GoldBy: Hannah Ryan

After a hard fought loss to Hendersonville High School in the Regional Championships, the Lady Bears girl’s soccer team saw their season come to a close. For the Lady Bears, it was a season fi lled with improvements. The girls scored more goals than last year, won more games than last year, and possibly their favorite improvement, beat school rival Wilson Central. Head Coach Ryan Hill praised the team for their effort. “We defi nitely played harder this season and had better scoring chances.” Hill also credited the better performance with “better communication and working better together.” Several seniors will not be returning next season, including the squad’s co-captains: Kat Lopez and Danielle Dubois. “These girls really helped keep the team working together with their leadership,” said Hill. “All the seniors did a good job and will be missed.” Other seniors departing this season include Katie Swor, Kara Brewington, Autumn Patterson and Jenn Fitzgibbons. Hill was satisfi ed with the team’s 5-10-1 record, citing improvements over time and a team that was free of cliques. Next season, however, he hopes that the Lady Bears will improve on shooting whenever they have a scoring chance, along with being in better condition come game time. The Lady Bears saw a season with more intensity and improvements. Next season hopes to be an even better performance with both new teammates and veterans as the seniors move on to future opportunities.

lady bears’ season reaches end of field

By: Chris West

college signings

Pitcher and third baseman for the MJHS baseball team, Kyle Smith, signed with Vanderbilt University,Nashville, Tenn. on Nov. 10, 2011. Smith considered many other schools, including University of Tennessee and West Kentucky University. However, Smith chose Vanderbilt out of the rest because he really wants to be around their renowned coaching staff. “Vanderbilt is the best place for me if I want to go pro,” said Smith. Smith’s goal may be to go pro, but he still has a backup plan. Smith will be studying education to become a teacher and coach. Smith is very excited to be signing with Vanderbilt and is ready to start his last season at MJHS.

By: Summer Adams

Kyle Smith Madison Taylor, senior, signed with Tennessee Technological University, Cookeville, Tenn., on

Nov. 10 for her outstanding skills in softball. She has been a part of the sport since she was seven, and all of her hard work paid off when she signed with the school of her dreams. Although Taylor got offers from Middle Tennessee State University, Murfreesboro, Tenn, and University of Tennessee Martin, she chose TTU because of how much she admires the softball coaching staff. She plays outfi eld, and the coaches will help her to be a better player. She is not sure what she wants to major in during college, but she is honored to be a part of this great softball team.

By: Brookelynn WeaverMadison Taylor

MJHS basketball star Caya Williams signed with Middle Tennessee State University in Murfreesboro, Tenn., on

Nov. 10, 2011. Williams also considered University of Louisville and University of Memphis, but ultimately decided MTSU was the school for her. There, Williams will be majoring in physical therapy. Williams has been playing basketball since she was in

sixth grade and hopes to continue her basketball career after college. Caya Williams is excited to begin her college career with MTSU but will also miss her high school teammates.

All-star athlete, senior Barianne Taylor, signed with University of Tennessee Martin (UTM), Martin, Tenn, on Nov 10 with a scholarship to play basketball. Taylor anticipates nothing but the best from UTM where she will

be majoring in physical therapy and plans on playing center or forward for her new coaches next year. When she graduates, she will never forget her teammates or her high school coach, Coach Chris Fryer who taught her many lessons along the way.

“He taught me how to work hard, be tough and improve my game,” says Taylor. Moving on will be bittersweet, but she is excited to play college basketball and improve even more as a player and a person.

Barianne TaylorBy: Savannah Wilson

Caleb Chowbay

Ca

ya W

illi

am

s

By: Tanner Primm

Features8

Managing Partner 40 Old Pleasant Grove Rd.Mt. Juliet, TN 37122

Phone: 615.758.3340Mobile: 615.3976475Fax: 615.758.3341

Larry Grah

The MJHS choir program has been a huge success in enabling students to learn through music and express themselves through voice. Beginning Choir, Concert Choir, L.O.V.E., M.O.V.E. and Vocal Ensemble held their fall concert on Sept. 27 in the theater. The choir’s performances were not only opportunities for raising money and showcasing talent, but they also gave students the courage and confi dence to face the stage. Along with this, students in the audition choirs were able to prepare for their Mid-State auditions, by performing their Mid-State repertoire. “Since L.O.V.E. memorized and

practiced ‘Cantate Domino’ prior to the concert, this personally helped me to be ready for my Mid-State audition. I made the All-State and Mid-State Choirs,” said senior Kendal Oziminski On Sept. 30 and Oct. 1, students traveled to Riverdale High School where they auditioned for Mid-State, a regional honor choir, and All-State, a state-wide honor choir. These auditions allowed students to experience a blind audition where auditioners could not see the judges as they sang. Thirty MJHS students made Mid-State and twelve made All-State. Students who made Mid-State performed at Christ Church on Nov. 15 in Nashville for the Mid-State

concert. Auditioners who made the All-State choir will have their concert on April 14 in Chattanooga. Along with these activities, the choir has also begun its annual Holiday Greenery fundraiser. The program’s fundraisers not only support choir needs for sheet music and piano tuning, but they also help raise money for student scholarships for choir trips. This year the choir is going to Atlanta, Georgia on spring break for a competition. The music department is always open to new ways of success and has recently added an assistant choir and band director, Sherry Grossman, to the program. Grossman has been

co-teaching with Sandy Elliott this semester hopes to start a strings class next semester. This class will help open doors to students who are not involved in a music program and who are looking to play string instruments. “I am excited for the upcoming string program because it will bring more possibilities to perform combined pieces with the choir,” said Grossman The MJHS choir program is involved in numerous activities this year and appreciates the support of fellow classmates. These factors will continue the program’s success and will allow an audience to hear the beauty of music through voice.

mjhs choirs go for the goldBy: Olivia Thompson

Young Republicans, recently added to the school’s diverse selection of clubs, hosted its fi rst political event on Sept. 21 when Tennessee State Representative Mark Pody visited MJHS to speak to club members about his job and what it means to be a republican. After talking about himself for a short time, Rep. Pody asked students for any questions. Students continued to ask questions about his policy views until Pody was forced to excuse himself for another engagement. Before departing he offered students his contact information and an invitation to shadow him or to intern with him. Club President and founder Daniel Jones, senior, hopes to have speakers as often as possible and said of the event, “We really appreciated Rep. Pody taking the time out of his day to talk to us, and I think everyone really benefi ted from the speech.” Jones wants to organize out-of-school trips as well to inform

students and get them involved in the political process. Over fall break Jones organized a tour around the State Capitol. “It was really cool to see everything! We even got to meet the secretary of state and got a Tennessee hat!” said club member Sarah Burnette. Jones stresses that while the club is centered on republican ideals and all speakers will be republican, anyone is welcome to come to meetings. It is a good way to learn about politics no matter one’s affi liation. If interested in joining, club meetings are held in government teacher and club sponsor Joshua Seal’s room at 3:05 p.m. Listen to announcements for dates.

Japanese Culture Club was reintroduced to MJHS to give Japanese culture lovers a place to come together to learn and discuss. Sophomore Claire Elizabeth Giacobbi, founder and club president, went out of her way to fi nd a sponsor, Janine Zahuceky, and to look for students to join. In order to be a part of the club, students must pay a $5 entry fee and show up to meetings held every

Monday from 3:10 p.m. to 4:10 p.m. in room A105. At these meetings club members study Japanese culinary traditions, language, customs and celebrations. Every month, the club participates in a specifi c activity to better explore Japanese culture. Past activities have included dining at a hibachi grill and going to a folk festival in Nashville that was centered on Japanese culture.

The club plans to attend the Middle Tennessee Anime Convention over Easter weekend. The convention is one of the largest held in Nashville, and fans that go usually dress up as their favorite anime character. The Japanese Culture Club is just one of the ways MJHS offers opportunities for students to broaden their cultural perspective and gain more respect for other countries.

MJHS’ top-notch web design program helps prepare students for careers after high school. Many students excel in this program, but sophomore Austin Marino stands above the rest.

Despite being only a fi rst year web design student, teacher Alicia Nicholas said, “He is the top of his class.” She praises Marino, saying that he is a hard worker who is involved in multiple web design projects for the school. He has already built and designed his own website and is helping with other school activities. In web page design, students learn how to work with different computer programs; Photoshop is currently Marino’s favorite. He says he likes playing around with it and learning new things about the software. “Technology is always advancing,” he stated. This is one reason why he feels the class will help him in the future. Marino thinks he may someday enjoy a career where he can showcase his newfound talent thanks to Nicholas and her course. Nicholas’ teaching is one of his favorite parts of the class, making it easier and more fun to learn. Hopefully, Marino will continue working with computers so that more people can see the amazing skills he has learned. Marino’s hope is that he will gain more knowledge and use his newly obtained talent to go far in the world of technology.

japanese club cooks up culture

Young Republicans

Represnt MJHSBy: Brooklyn Weaver

japanese club cooks up culture

Features 9By: Hannah Ryan

By: Brooke Bolus

mr. miller

By: Lena Ayoub

Jason Miller’s ambitions of being the next President of the United States, Superman or Indian Jones did not become a reality, so he decided to go into teaching. Originally from Rochester, New York, Miller is now teaching AP economics and U.S. history. Though he loves teaching, he also likes being taught -

outside of school Miller enjoys learning and reading. Balancing out his nerdiness, Miller likes sports, and is the new assistant football coach.

If you could be any celebrity for a day, who would it be?

S t u d e n t E x c e l l s i n

W e b D e s i g n

Katy Harned, 12, Christina Aguilera

Adrie Brown, 12, ShakiraMatt Gudlin, 10, Brad Paisley

Bailey Green, 10, Kendall JennerJeremy Turner, 10, Khloe

KardashianTravis Dakhil, 12, Angelina Jolie

Colleen Hearin, 10, BeyonceDerek Cooper, 11, Kylie JennerKristen Williams, 12, Kendra

WilkinsonBrooke Patterson, 12, Nicki MinajAmy Nabors, 10, Julianne HoughChristian Scott, 10, Snoop Dogg

Lily Price, 9, Megan FoxDavid Tabor, 12, Mac MillerChris Nicholson, 11, Donald

TrumpMyles Owens, 10, Wiz KhalifaDane Law, 11, Kevin Bacon

Kyle Hamilton, 9, Ryan Reynolds

Tyler Hicks, 9, Brad PittBety Berhe, 9, Jennifer LopezDanielle White, 11, Audrey

HepburnMiriam Gaines, 10, Alicia KeysKaylan Denney, 10, Jessica AlbaShelby Anderson, 10, Lil Wayne

Michelle Alderan, 11, Kiera Knightley

Logan Salter, 10, Susan BoyleZera Wilson, 9, Barack Obama

Dorothee Devy, 11, Selena GomezLogan Harris, 9, Chaz BonoIsabelle Noblan, 12, Jennifer

AnistonGarret Woodard, 11, Robert

PattinsonKendall Grisham, 9, Gucci

Zach Dixon, 9, Ashton KutcherSteven Seale, 12, Kenny Chesney

Tyler Holt, 9, Travis Pastrona Dalton Huber, 9, Justin Bieber

Bonny Baker, 11, Reese Witherspoon

Lucas Green, 9, Chris Brown

Hey You!

Allyson Huffman, 10, Zooey Deshanel

Everything was subservient to the disposal of the tides.When the tide was low, Mom could be found downon the mudfl ats. When the tide was high, she would bestanding on the inlet bridge with her plankton net. Regarding the underline portion:

A. NO CHANGEB. was defenseless in the face of

C. depended onD. trusted in

Despite the current controversy, actual cases of acquittal by reason of insanity are quite rare. Jurors seem reluctant to believe that people are not morally responsible for their acts, and lawyers, knowing that an insanity plea is apt to fail, tend to use it only as a last resort. In Califor-nia in 1980, only 259 defendants (out of approximately 52,000) were successful in pleading not guilty by reason of insanity.

One of the main points made in this paragraph is that insanity pleas were:F. unconvincing to most juries in California in 1980.

G. used in most cases in California in 1980.H. often successful in California in 1980.

J. popular with lawyers in California in 1980.Answers in order: F, D, C, F

No deep, liquid water ocean exists on Europa. The heat generated by gravitational tides is quickly lost to space because of Europa’s small size, as shown by its very low surface temperature (–160°C). Many of the features on Europa’s surface resemble features created by fl owing glaciers on Earth. Large amounts of liquid water are not required for the creation of these features. If a thin layer of ice below the surface is much warmer than the surface ice, it may be able to fl ow and cause cracking and move-ment of the surface ice. Few meteorite craters are observed because of Europa’s very thin atmosphere; surface ice continually sublimes (changes from solid to gas) into this atmosphere, quickly eroding and removing any craters that may have formed. The Scientist explains that ice sublimes to water vapor and enters Europa’s atmo-sphere. If ultraviolet light then broke those water vapor molecules apart, which of the following gases would one most likely expect to fi nd in Europa’s atmosphere as a result of this process?

A. NitrogenB. MethaneC. ChlorineD. Oxygen

In the fi gure below, ray EF was constructed starting from rays ED and EG . By using a compass, D and G were marked equidistant from E on rays ED and EG . The compass was then used to locate a point F, distinct from E, so that F is equidistant from D and G. For all constructions defi ned by the above steps, the measures of DEF and GEF:

F. are equal.G. are NOT equal.

H. sum to 30°.J. sum to 45°.

K. sum to 60°.

ACT

Answers in order: F, D, C, F

ACTTips:

• As much as this has been pounded into heads, students still fail to read the question carefully. Remember, there are no trick questions, but some can get wordy.• Use logic on more diffi cult questions. Try to eliminate incor-rect answers. Usually there are two that can be easily elimi-nated, and two that seem correct. Compare possible answers to see how they differ, and note clues that fi t to what the question is asking.• Practice! Refresh your mind by practicing skills that you have not worked with in awhile. The guidance offi ce has free test booklets available to assist you.• Get a good night’s sleep, and eat a substantial breakfast. The test is about four hours long, and eating is not allowed in the test site.• Never leave questions unanswered. With the last fi ve min-utes, fi ll in all blank bubbles, then go back with the remaining time and correct answers.

• A lot of the science section is about data representation and analyzing it. Do not get overwhelmed by the amount of information given, and focus on where the question leads you.• The English test is broken up into two categories: usage/mechanics and rhetorical skills. Usage and mechanics will be based on punctuation, grammar and usage and sentence structure. Rhetorical skills will test strategy, style and organization.• Three areas of math will be tested: algebra, trigonometry and geometry. The test is designed so every problem can be done without a calculator, but one is recommended to save time. Some key strategies are: simplify the problem, work backwards from the answer, fi ll in or draw a diagram and approximate and check.• The reading test may be the hardest solely because of the long passages, but using the right techniques, anyone can get through it. Read the passage quickly yet actively, marking main points and key words. Pre-read a few of the questions, and make sure the answer is supported by the passage. Common questions ask about main idea, tone, purpose, meanings of words and phrases and identifying cause-effect relationships.

Strategies:

Preparing for the

1 Math

2 Science

3 English

4 Reading

2 Science2 Science

3 EnglishStrategies:Strategies: 3 English

4 Reading4 Reading

1 Math1 MathDates:

Registration Dates:

Test Dates:Dec. 10, 2011Feb. 11, 2012April 14, 2012June 9, 2012

Nov. 4, 2011Jan. 13, 2012

March 9, 2012May 4, 2012

Your Golden Ray StaffSummer Adams, Savannah Wilson, Lindsey

Grah , Hannah Ryan, Jordan Steakin, Lena Ay-oub, Christopher West, Paige Brenner, Brooke

Bolus, Elaine Gunn, Tanner Primm, Austen Jones, Brookelynn Weaver, and Aaron Gunn