Volume 7 Issue 9

storm tracker THE United High School Newspaper Volume 7, Issue 9 IN THIS ISSUE: Board discusses amended 2010-2011 budget p. 2 Eric Nicol an important piece of the puzzle p. 3 Pride Night recap

p. 4

Spring concert wows audiences p. 6 Most seniors say college is next destination p. 8 Final honor rolls

p. 9

2011-12 calendar

p. 10

Spring sports recaps, along with head coach hiring pp. 11-13

STORM ALERTS Relay for Life update

May’s bake sale netted $258 for the United Family Relay for Life Team giving them $1487 for the year. Anyone can use this link for online donations to the United Redstorm Family team: http://main.acsevents.org/site/TR?fr_ id=30709&pg=entry Please remember to register online (use the link above) if you want to join this year’s Relay for Life team on July 9. Search for United Redstorm Family. Our team is very small right now--we would love to see more sign up.

2011-2012 Advertising Businesses interested in advertising in the Storm Tracker for next school year should contact Mr. Kozelichki at 734-9411. Cost will be $10 per column inch for all 9 issues. For example, a business card sized ad, in full color would cost $40 for the year, with invoices sent in October.

STATE CHAMPIONS! By Caiti Kozelichki After its fourth trip to the state finals, the United softball team can finally say it has won a state championship with a 6-0 win over Danville Schlarman. United faced Schlarman after beating Toledo Cumberland 1-0 in the state semifinals. After a Schlarman runner advanced to third base on an error in the top of the 1st, many feared the game would have the same outcome as past state games. However, pitcher Katie Bertelsen proved she wasn’t going to give up without a fight. Bertelsen struck out 15 batters and allowed only two hits and walked two batters. The Storm’s offense found many chances to show off its hitting power. Junior Megan Patterson led with three of the team’s ten hits. “Their pitchers weren’t really good and kept a

lot of us off balance. Our coaches prepared us really well for pitchers like that so we were confident when we hit,” said Patterson. While the girls didn’t have a tough time in the final game, they struggled a couple of times throughout the playoffs.

After beating the Abingdon Commandos 7-0 in the regional finals, United beat Annawan-Wethersfield 10-0 in the first round of sectionals. United then faced Stark County in the sectional finals. The Red Storm was

down 1-0 until the bottom of the sixth inning when Patterson and Bertelsen both hit singles to left field and senior Gina Long hit a double to right center. It was with those three hits that United scored the See “Softball” on page 12

George Lafferty selected for United Athletic Hall of Fame United High School is proud to announce that George Lafferty has been selected for induction into the United Athletic Hall of Fame, Class of 2011, in the Builder’s Category. Lafferty, of Alexis, has been a staunch supporter of education and athletics at the Alexis and United school districts for more than 50 years. He currently serves as the public address voice of United football and softball. The Builder’s Category is open to anyone with

“Coaching, managerial or ties on Friday, September executive ability, or any 30, during halftime of the other significant role” United-West Central footwhere their “sportsmanship, ball game. character and contribution “As chairman and to their organizations and to secretary of the committee, United High School athlet- I am extremely proud to ics, in general” make them see George Lafferty attain “worthy representatives of this honor,” said United United High School and athletic director Tony considered role models in Kozelichki. “While many the community.” only see George as our Lafferty was a unaniP.A. announcer, his support mous selection of the five of United athletics runs member Hall of Fame com- the gamut from his many mittee, which met on May financial contributions to 11, and will be honored his donation of materials during homecoming festivi-

and labor in our various construction projects. The term “Builder” is most appropriate.” The United Athletic Hall of Fame was founded in 2010. Its first inductees were 2005 graduates Greg McGraw and Anna Damos and the 2004 Class 1-A state football championship team. Also inducted last fall were football coach Ben McIntosh and girls track coach the late Barbara Bohan.

The State of Illinois owes the United School District...

$491,970.09

Source: Illinois State Board of Education (5/29/11) http://webprod1.isbe.net/FRISInquiry/asp/flist.asp?rc dt=27094304026&vname=UNITED_CUSD_304

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storm tracker 1905 100th Street Monmouth, IL 61462 (309) 734-9411 The Storm Tracker is published monthly, wth additional issues as warranted, by the journalism students of United High School, and is distributed online via the World Wide Web. The material published does not necessarily reflect the viewpoint of the administration of United School District #304. While every attempt is made to determine the validity of advertising contained herein, the advertising in the Storm Tracker is not to be construed as endorsement of a specific product or service. The Storm Tracker assumes no responsibility of liability resulting from the content of paid advertisements. The Storm Tracker does not knowingly acept advertsements that discriminate on the basis of sex, race, creed, religion, color, handicapped status, veteran or sexual orientation, nor does it knowingly print ads that violate any local, state, or federal laws. Parties interested in advertising in the Storm Tracker should contact Mr. Kozelichki at the address and/or phone number listed above. Letters to the editor must b mailed to the address above and cannot be more than 350 words. The author’s name and phone number must be included for verification purposes. The Storm Tracker only edits letters in cases of timeliness and obscenity and does not guarantee publication of all letters.

storm tracker Melissa McDonald, Editor-in-Chief Reporters: Shaakira Archie, Ashley Dell, Maisie Hendrickson, Caitlin Kozelichki, Jennifer Magee, Meghan Olin, Madison Ray, Sadie VanNorman, Kelsey Winkler

“Some material courtesy of American Society of Newspaper Editors/MCT Campus High School Newspaper Service.” WEBPAGE ADDRESS

www.united.k12.il.us The webpage contains links to each district building and office, as well as access to the online grading system and calendar.

UNITED CUSD #304 contact numbers Superintendent’s Office 734-9413 FAX 734-0223 United High School 734-9411 FAX 734-6090 United Junior High 734-8511 FAX 734-6094 United Elementary North 482-3332 FAX 482-3341 United Elementary West 734-8513 FAX 734-8515

Light agenda for May board meeting By Jennifer Magee The United Board of Education held their meeting on Thursday, May 12. They discussed many things such as the amended budget, bids on lockers for the junior High, milk and bread prices for next year, the sanitation relocation project, and the resignation of a staff member. First, is the proposed amended budget for the current fiscal year, which is available for viewing at the unit office until the June board meeting. Superintendent Jeff Whitsitt told the board, “We will have to amend expenditures in the education fund and in the life safety fund” The life safety fund revenue increase by $6,205,486 with the issuance of bonds to cover the costs of the new fieldhouse and West Campus roofing. Tort fund expenditures increased by $80,000 to $176,000, while in 2010 it was $90,450, and in 2009 it was $145,000. In the education fund there was a revenue increase of $105,587, and an expenditure increase of $287,277. A technology grant of $105,587 was responsible for the fund enhancement.. The junior high school is getting new lockers. Five bids were received, but only three qualified. The board discussed two of

those qualifying bids. Laverdiere Construction of Macomb came in at $58,303, and Carl Seeding for 60,186. After much discussion regarding past performance by Laverdiere, the board approved the higher bid. The cost of milk has gone up an average of three cents per carton. There were two bids on milk. Anderson Ericson bid 21.70 cents per carton of 1%, and 22 cents for chocolate, while Prairie Farms bid 221/2 centers per carton, and 24 cents for chocolate. Current provider Jerry’s Dairy has been bought out by Prairie Farms and with their service coming from Burlington, IA, it was decided to award the contract to Prairie Farms. There was one bid on bread from Interstate Baking out of Davenport. White bread went up two cents a loaf, while whole wheat stayed the same. The sanitation relocation project is to be done some time this summer. The current sewer line comes out of the east end of the high school building and with the new fieldhouse to be located in that area, a decision was made to move both a water line and the sewage line away from the construction zone, as well as increase the sewage line from 6 to 8 inches. Water to the high school building will be shut down

for a couple of days in June in order to move these lines before groundbreaking on the fieldhouse, expected in August. Finally, the resignation of Carol Welker, a cook at the west campus who worked at the school for 22 years, was accepted with regret. A large number of retirements this year and next will create quite a few job openings in the coming years. A list of current openings is posted below and the Storm Tracker will continue to list district job availabilies as they become known.

Due to summer schedules and conflicts, the next meeting of the United Board of Education will take place on Monday, June 20, at 7:00 p.m. in the superintendent’s office. Generally, school board meetings are held the second Thursday of each month. Discussion regarding the bidding process for construction of the new fieldhouse is expected at that meeting, along with approval of the proposed amended 2010-2011 budget.

Positions open for 2011-2012 The Board of Education of the United Community Unit School District #304 is accepting applications for the following positions: • Part Time Secretary-West Elementary • Full Time Cook (8 Hour)--West Elementary • Full Time (6 hour) Cook--West Campus • Junior High Girls’ Track Coach •Jr-Sr High Music Instructor

All letters of application are to be sent to Jeff Whitsitt United CUSD #304 1905 100th Street Monmouth, IL 61462 The Superintendent of Schools will screen all applications. The administrative staff will conduct interviews. Applicants are not to contact board members.

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Small School Spotlight focuses on multi-talented Nicol By Kelsey Winkler Eric Nicol is United High School’s jack of all trades. From T.E.C. to baseball, he’s involved in it all. He may not be the star player on the basketball team or chapter president in FFA, but Eric is still an important part of United. Eric is involved in many activities but one of his favorites is T.E.C. (Teens Encounter Christ), a religious retreat where kids can become closer to the Lord while making new friends and having fun. “I went to my first T.E.C. last year. It was a real emotional, religious experience and going back in November on the Wheat Team was my way of giving back and helping make others’ T.E.C. experiences as special as mine was. I have a lot of friends in the T.E.C. community, and I

love going back and doing all I can to help in anyway possible.” He also participates in tons of sports. He is a defensive end on the football team, right fielder for the baseball team, a forward on the basketball team, and he even played donkey basketball. He’s so passionate about sports that he even lost a tooth trying to rebound the ball during a basketball game. “I’ve done sports since I could walk; it’s just something I’ve always loved to do, but baseball was my favorite thing until FFA.” FFA is another activity Eric loves. He is the 20112012 FFA chapter treasurer, won section record books for Ag services, and will be going to Washington, D.C. this summer for a leadership camp.

A new addition to the United family Congratulations to United SMI teacher Mrs. Katie Sadlei on the birth of her daughter, Scarlett Elizabeth, on May 6. Young Miss Sadler checked in at 8 lbs, 7 oz. and 20 inches tall. Both mom and daughter are doing well.

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“I loved growing up and helping on the farm; I just wanted to learn more so I took an Ag class and I’ve loved it ever since. I even want to be an Ag teacher when I’m older. I enjoy learning about everything. I learned how to be respectful and a leader. And I met some awesome life long friends in the process.” FCA also holds a special place in his heart. “I got involved with

FCA because of Mr. Johnson and Marshall Schrader. Mr. Schrader had an afterpractice bible study my freshman year and I loved it ever since. It actually got me highly involved in T.E.C.” Whether it’s getting people involved in T.E.C. or keeping track of FFA funds, Eric Nicol is one special piece of the United High School puzzle.

Rick Johnson to lead his last trip to Mexico By Meg Olin This summer, a group of 12 sophomores, juniors and seniors will be taking a trip to tour and to be immersed in the culture of Mexico. This trip which has always been conducted by Spanish teacher, Mr. Rick Johnson, will be extra special due to the fact that it will be his last time taking his students on trip. Johnson plans to retire at the end of the 2011-2012 school year. The group will depart on June 12 for ten days of exploration, hands on learning and fun. “I think it will be really fun being able to be engulfed in an entirely new

culture,” said junior Chris Hollis. “I have been looking forward to going since January.”. The group will arrive first in Mexico City and spend two days there exploring the city and climbing the pyramids. Next, they will take a bus to Guanajauto where they will visit a mummy museum and tour one of the silver mines there. By the seventh day, the group will travel to Yucatan to visit Uxmal, the great Mayan ruins, and watch a sound and light show there at night. The next day will entail a visit to Ik-Kil, which is a cenote, or sinkhole, that

was regarded by the Mayans as sacred. The last day of the trip, which is a favorite among past students, is exploring the Isla Mujeres where students can swim, snorkel, and rent golf carts to explore the beach. “After hearing about Mexico in class for the past three years, I’m excited to be actually going. I can’t wait to put my ‘Espanol’ to good use and to hang out with Mr. Johnson,” said junior Kelsey Crain.

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SCENES FROM THE SOUTH SIDE

Annual Pride Night recognizes academic achievement By Madison Ray United High School’s Pride Night proved to be a wonderful experince for those who were honored and a very memorable night for the many seniors leaving UHS. A number of scholarships and other academic awards were presented that evening. Below are listed the scholarships and other honors and the students who received each. Scholarships • U.S. Army Reserve Scholar-Athlete Award • Warren- Henderson Farm Bureau Foundation • Alexis Woman’s Club Scholarship • Steve McBride Memorial Scholarship • PEO Chapter “G” • PEO Chapter “T” • A. Lewis Long • Carl Sandburg College Foundation • WYSE Academic Challenge • United Education Association • Eva Morris • Debbie Linder • First State Bank of Illinois • John Bohan Memorial Scholarship Awards • IHSA Honorable Mention All-State Academic Team • Illinois State Scholars

Gina Long and Alex Gavin Hillary Campbell Gretchen Schrock Katie Bertelsen and Ashley Dell Emily Douglas Emily Douglas Andrea Watts and Erin Flicek Maddy Ray Logan Douglas Bobby Huber Bobby Huber Gina Long Emily Douglas Josh Winston and Nick Cavanaugh Gina Long Alex Gavin, Gina Long, Taylor Toops, Joe Wood, and Jenny Youngquist

Steele Scholarship honors fallen hero Phil and Paula Steele of North Henderson honored four seniors with scholarships in honor of their son, Capt. Joshua Steele, who was killed in combat. Lindsey Heurta-Brentise, Rachel Kenney, Jessica Price and Erin Prichard were awaded the Capt. Joshua Steele Memorial Scholarship, which the Steele family expects to continue awarding in the coming years to United seniors entering the military. Josh Steele was a graduate of Alexis High School.

• National Honor Society Induction Daniel Adee, Jonah Armstrong, Kelsey Crain, Logan Douglas, Jennifer Elliott, Alex Gavin, Jake Gavin, Geoffrey Hauhn, Chris Hollis, Caiti Kozelichki, Meg Olin, Amy Olson, Meg Patterson, Evan Powell, Katie Schag, and Christian Schrader. Also recognized were current NHS members: Emily Douglas, Gina Long, Melissa McDonald, Gretchen Schrock, Taylor Toops, Joe Wood, and Jenny Youngquist.

UHS’s National Honor Society members following the 2011 induction

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CSC Presents THE COLLEGIATE CONNECTION

Stories, clues and hints to help you prepare for life after high school

Enroll now for fall classes at Carl Sandburg College Whether you are planning on earning your associate degree, transferring to a four-year college or university, interested in our occupational programs, or would like to acquire your GED, Carl Sandburg College has the available resources to assist students’ successful completion of their academic goals. The mission of Carl Sandburg College is to provide accessible, quality education in a caring environment by keeping the learner’s needs at the center of decision making and by working in partnership with communities of the College district.

Becoming a Full or Part-time Student NEW... TO CSC? 1. Complete the CSC Application for Admission. 2 Apply for financial aid and scholarships. 3. Complete the COMPASS placement exam. Please call 309-341-5323 to register for the exam. 4. Complete the required New Student Online Orientation. Schedule an appointment to meet with a counselor to register for classes. Appointments may be made by calling 341-5237 for the Galesburg Campus, (877) 236-1862 ext. 4467 for The Branch Campus in Carthage, (877) 236-1862 ext. 4444 for The Extension Center in Bushnell.

REQUIREMENTS FOR ADMISSION 1. Admission is open to all in-district residents of Community College District 518 who are high school graduates or the equivalent (GED), or nongraduates who are at least 18 years of age.

Tuition & Fees Fall 2011

2. Admission to the College does not ensure admission to a particular course or program of study. Should it be necessary to limit enrollment, priority will be given to residents of Carl Sandburg College District 518 or to residents of a community college district involved in a cooperative agreement with Carl Sandburg College.

*Note: Full-time students are eligible for Tuition Rate Guarantee for a maximum of three years.

3. The College reserves the right to establish selective admission requirements for any or all programs. All programs and their respective admission requirements will be identified in the College catalog.

Out-of-District Student Tuition $175.50 / $191.00* per semester hour

4. Carl Sandburg College will not discriminate in the admission of students on the basis of race, color, creed, sex, sexual preference, disability, or national origin. A college doesn’t have to be far away and expensive to be good. CSC is where students can be their best, stay at home, and become well prepared to transfer to a four-year college or university or to enter the work force. Students are proud of their choice---Carl Sandburg College ----- where students really do come first! One of the best ways to truly know what a college has to offer is to visit the campus and take a good look around. Carl Sandburg College schedules visits on an individual basis at the student’s convenience. day visits. Please call 2-3 days in advance. Contact us to set up a visit by email or call (309) 341-5230.

In-District Student Tuition. $134.50 / $138.00* per semester hour

Out-of-State Student Tuition $225.00 / $231.00* per semester hour Online Student Tuition $134.50 / $138.00* per semester hour

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Carl Sandburg College participates in federal, state and institutional financial aid programs to assist students in meeting the costs of higher education. Financial aid is available in the form of grants, loans, scholarships and work study.

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Outgoing directors put on much improved concert By Ashley Dell United’s spring concert took place this year, May 11, 2011, at around 7:45 p.m. Not only was there a concert, it was senior night for United music students and rewards to give out to very talented music students. The night started off with the seniors being recognized for their many achievements and for their future plans after high school. Each student walked in with their parents and stood in front of the whole audience as Mrs. Schmitz read off all their high school activities and their plans for the future. It was a really good night for all seniors as this was one of their last events before graduation. After senior recognition, the jazz band started the concert with Crazy Little Thing Called Love with

soloist Gretchen Simpson. performance, the concert They finished with a very band started their perfornoticeable piece, Hey Jude mance with a Broadway with soloist Caiti Kozelich- Tribute, a group of songs ki. that many people know. The concert chorus then They finished with some performed there pieces, highlight songs from Les which they all worked very Miserables, which the hard on and were very students happened to see wonderful to listen to. this past February when the The choral students Broadway tourning comstarted singing a very clas- pany came to Chicago. sical piece, Gloria. Another It meant a lot to the song they sung was a quiet, band students to be playbut beautiful piece called ing songs like I Dreamed Homeward Bound, which a Dream, Master of the is noticeable from previous House, and On My Own. years when the Hook sisters Award presentation besang it as a duet. gan soon after the concert The choral students band finished their perforfinished off with a very fun, mance. Awards were giving out upbeat medley that everyone knows and comes to to many of the outstanding love, The Beatles in Revue. solos, duets, and ensembles Chorus teacher, Ben Holthat competed at the state mes, even got the audience competition in March. A number of awards to help sing in the ending of the song with Hey Jude. were given to some juniors When the choral stuand seniors who’ve shown dents were done with their outstanding band and choral performance throughout their years of high school. After the award presentation was over, the final song of the night, Up to the Mountain, was performed by the choir. It was a very emotional song that came from a speech by Dr. Mar-

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tin Luther King, Jr.. Throughout the song there were four solos sung by seniors Katrina Park,

Joe Wood, Jenni Magee, and Kelsey Winkler. It was a very good way to end the concert.

United again seeking music instructors By Zane Carlson On April 14, as a surprise to everyone, the second semester band director, Pamela Stein, notified the School Board of her resignation at the end of the year.

Just where is she going? Well the answer to that is Las Vegas, Nevada. The position will be in the Clark County school district. Before she is able to teach there, however, she will have to pass two tests to get licensing to teach in Nevada. With the recent success of the United Junior High, and United High School’s spring concerts, it is a shame to see her go. The best of wishes go out to Miss Stein on her trek to Las Vegas, for it was a joy having her for the short, but sweet, time United did. It was announced to faculty members of May 26 that Mr. Ben Holmes, too, would be leaving. Holmes, who lives in the Quad Cities, has accepted a position at Orion High School, which is much closer to home. Holmes also joined the United faculty at mid-year.

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2011 marks first three-way graduating class to spend all four years of high school at United By Maisie Hendrickson Four years have gone by since two schools decided to join together. The Class of 2011 graduation opened with class member Jennifer Youngquit saying a prayer for the future of her fellow class mates. Mrs. Schmitz then introduced the Salutatorian Regina Long, pictured below.

She opened with saying, “High School is like a roll of toilet paper; you only miss it when it’s gone.” She thanked all the teachers that have guided them along the way and

quoted Malcom X and thanked her parents for encouraging her to do her best. “I’m secretly going t o miss high school.” She then recognized that out of the 51 students, four of them will be joining the military. She quoted Forrest Gump by saying “Life is like a box of chocolates. You never know what you’re going to get.” She closed her speech with saying to her classmates, “Embrace what you have learned.” Mrs. Schmitz then introduced to Valedictorian, Alex Gavin, pictured above right. He opened his speech with a rapture joke stating that he was glad we all survived the night. “I remember my first day of high school. I admit I was scared, and Ms. Ross scared the living daylights out of me.” He then went on to thank all the teachers and coaches. “They taught us we don’t run the place.”

He then spoke to his classmates, “The Journey is just beginning.” The senior address was given by Emily Douglas. She began her speech with a fairy tale reference about the consolidation of Warren and Alexis and then Yorkwood. “I can’t say happily ever after just yet. It’s just beginning.” She spoke to her classmates, “The door of our childhood has shut and the window of our adult hood is now open.” After the senior address the United Choir and Senior Choir performed

the song Whenever You Remember by Carrie Underwood with Mr. Holmes playing the piano. They also performed Up to the Mountain by Patty Griffin. Then it was time to present the diplomas with the help of Mr. Elliott, President of the United School Board. Not all the students were given their diplomas by Mr. Elliott. Augusta Chandler was presented hers’ by her father Courtney Chandler, member of the United School Board. Alex Gavin was also presented his diploma by another member of the United School Bored, his mom Lisa Gavin. Joe Wood closed the ceremony with discussing the fact that the class of 2011 is the first class to graduate with a mixture of Alexis, Warren, and Yorkwood students who have gone all four years of high school together. Before introducing the

Class of 2011 Mrs. Schmitz recognized each student who would be joining the military: Lindsey Brentise, Air Force; Rachel Kenney, Marines; Jessica Price, Air Force; and Erin Prichard, National Guard. The class motto was, “Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed people can change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has.” Margaret Mead Class officers were Gretchen Schrock, President; Joe Wood, VicePresident; Katie Schag, Secretary; Emily Douglas,e Treasurer; and Lindsey Brentise, Student Council Representative. Class Advisors this year were Mrs. Wendy Havens and Mr. Brian Cirks. Junior Marshals for the graduation ceremony were Caiti Kozelichki and Jake Gavin, the top ranked female and male students in the Class of 2012.

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Class of 2011 lists post high school plans Most members of the Class of 2011 plan to attend college this fall. Of the schools selected, a large number (20 of the 51 graduating seniors), will be attending Carl Sandburg College in Galesburg. Other nearb schools listed include Illinois Val1.Shaakira Archie 2.Brooke Armstrong 3.Jennifer Battenburg 4.Cody Battin 5.Katie Bertelsen 6.Lindsey Huerta-Brentise 7.Hillary Campbell 8.Nick Cavanaugh 9.Augusta Chandler 10.Kathy Cooper 11.Cody Dawson 12.Ashley Dell 13.Emily Douglas 14.Nate Dutton 15.Erin Flicek 16.Paige Fowler 17.Kayley Garner 18.Alex Gavin 19.Bobby Huber 20.Nick Hull 21.Katie Kaywood 22.Rachel Kenney 23.Katie Knipe 24.Breayn Lee 25.Gina Long 26.Jenn Magee

ley Community College in Ottawa, Spoon River College in Canton, Monmouth College, and several Quad Cities schools: Augustana College, Black Hawk College, Capri College and Kaplan University. Other Illinois schools listed include Rockford

College, Illinois State University, Southern Illinois University, Western Illinois University, Northern Illinois University, Illinois College, and the University of Illinois. Out of state schools include Muscatine Community College, Drake

Illinois Valley Comm. College (Human Services Carl Sandburg College (Cosmetology) Monmouth College (Business or Psychology) Rockford College (Business and Art) Southern Illinois University (Agriculture) Air Force (Dental Assistant Apprentice) Muscatine Comm. College (Farm Management) University of Iowa (Pre-med) Carl Sandburg College (Agriculture) Capri College (Cosmetology) Carl Sandburg College (Criminal Justice) Western Illinois University (Speech Therapy) Carl Sandburg College (Communications) Western Illinois University (Bio-Chemistry) Carl Sandburg College (Auto Body Repair) Black Hawk College (Nursing) Carl Sandburg College (Physical Therapy) Creighton University (Business) Carl Sandburg College (History Education) Monmouth College (Sports Management) Illinois State University (Interior Design) Marines (Combat Engineer) Carl Sandburg College (Massage Therapy) Monmouth College (Elementary Education) University of Illinois (Business) Western Illinois University (Art Therapy)

University in Des Moines, Iowa, the University of Iowa, Iowa State University, Creighton University in Omaha, Nebraska, and Colorado State University. Four graduating seniors will enlist in the military, two with the Air Force and one each with the Marines

27.Melissa McDonald 28.Brianna Melton 29.Sabrinna Melvin 30.Heather Montroy 31.Kelsie Newell 32.Cheryl Oberhaus 33.Katrina Parks 34.Dustin Penn 35.Jessica Price 36.Erin Prichard 37.Maddy Ray 38.Cori Sargent 39.Katie Schag 40.Gretchen Schrock 41.Jonathon Shelton 42.Josh Smith 43.Jaylin Sterr 44.Taylor Toops 45.Charlie Vestal 46.Andrea Watts 47.Kelsey Winkler 48.Josh Winston 49.Joe Wood 50.Mike Wood 51.Jenn Youngquist

and National Guard. Historically, United High School has sent more than 90% of its graduating seniors on to college, with military careers ranking second in student interest.

Drake University (Marketing/Management) Carl Sandburg College (Nursing) Carl Sandburg College (Massage Therapy) Carl Sandburg College (Nursing) Carl Sandburg College (Nursing) Carl Sandburg College (Undecided) Colorado State University (Veterinary Science) Carl Sandburg College (Business) Air Force (Air Field Specialist) Carl Sandburg College/Nat’l Guard (Pre-med) Carl Sandburg College (Pre-med/Accounting) Muscatine Comm. College (Farm Management) Northern Illinois University (Psychology) Iowa State University (Undecided) Carl Sandburg College (Biology) Carl Sandburg College (Law Enforcement) Kaplan University (Business) University of Illinois (Undecided) Carl Sandburg College (Massage Therapy) Carl Sandburg College (Cosmetology) Western Illinois University (Journalism) Illinois College (Pharmacy) Augustana College (History/Political Science) Spoon River Community College (Accounting) University of Illinois (Business)

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United High School names second semester and fourth quarter honor rolls United High School is pleased to announce the following students have attained honor roll status for the fourth quarter of the 2010-2011 school year: HIGH HONORS: 3.67 GPA and above Seniors: Nicholas Cavanaugh, Augusta Chandler, Ashley Dell, Alex Gavin, Robert Huber, Breayn Lee, Regina Long, Jennifer Magee, Melissa McDonald, Sabrinna Melvin, Katrina Parks, Erin Prichard, Madison Ray, Jonathon Shelton, Jaylin Sterr, Taylor Toops, Joseph Wood, Jennifer Youngquist. Juniors: Daniel Adee, Jonah Armstrong, Kelsey Crain, Logan Douglas, Jennifer Elliott, Jacob Gavin, Geoffrey Hahn, Maisie Hendrickson, Christopher Hollis, Caitlin Kozelichki, Gabriela Martin, Meghan Olin, Amy Olson, Megan Patterson, Evan Powell, Anna Schnerre, Christian Schrader, Ashlynn Winkler. Sophomores: Rachael Albert, Corey Armstrong, Sarah Cox, Emily Darrah, Amanda Hardesty, Jennifer Ischer, Alyson Keeney, Olivia Kennedy, Kelsey Lee, Danton McMullin, Evon Mikulecky, Trevor Oetting, Meghan Perkins, Andrew Raes, Michelle Ravel, Lunden Steele, Sydney Toops, Britney West, Bonita Worthington, Jessica

Youngquist. Freshmen: Callie Brunswig, Kelton Cheline, Carolyn King, Tara Klein, Ryan Olson, Michael Sedam, Cameron Smith, Mallory Tharp, Rebekah Valencia, Riley Whitsitt, Kiersten Youngquist. HONORS: 3.34 – 3.66 Seniors: Hillary Campbell, Kayley Garner, Rachel Kenney, Corinne Sargent, Joshua Smith, Charles Vestal, Andrea Watts, Joshua Winston. Juniors: Zane Carlson, Shelby Chandler, Bradley Cook, Ashlie Douglas, Michael Galusha, Phillip Herron, Emilee Holmberg, Samantha Leary, Beau Morrison, Hailey Wickline. Sophomores: Sadie Book, Danica Christenberry, Cecily Conard, Alexandria Dodson, Brandon Fredrickson, Connor French, Brittany Hall, Brianna Johnson, Jaysen Neice, Ethan Olson, Tamara Parks, Roberta Penn, Alicia Pierce, Madeline Poole, Gretchen Simpson, Preston Snyder, Trenton Watts. Freshmen: Cassie Campbell, Sarah Magee, Dalton McKee, Caleb Newell, Haley Osborn, Justine Peel, Brea Simkins, Lance Sperry.

United High School is pleased to announce the following students have attained honor roll status for the second semester of the 2010-2011 school year: HIGH HONORS: 3.67 GPA and above Seniors: Nicholas Cavanaugh, Augusta Chandler, Ashley Dell, Emily Douglas, Nathan Dutton, Alex Gavin, Robert Huber, Katlyn Kaywood, Breayn Lee, Regina Long, Jennifer Magee, Melissa McDonald, Sabrinna Melvin, Katrina Parks, Erin Prichard, Madison Ray, Gretchen Schrock, Jaylin Sterr, Taylor Toops, Andrea Watts, Joshua Winston, Joseph Wood, Jennifer Youngquist. Juniors: Daniel Adee, Jonah Armstrong, Zane Carlson, Kelsey Crain, Logan Douglas, Jennifer Elliott, Jacob Gavin, Geoffrey Hahn, Maisie Hendrickson, Christopher Hollis, Emilee Holmberg, Caitlin Kozelichki, Samantha Leary, Gabriela Martin, Meghan Olin, Amy Olson, Megan Patterson, Evan Powell, Anna Schnerre, Christian Schrader, Ashlynn Winkler.

Jaysen Neice, Trevor Oetting, Meghan Perkins, Andrew Raes, Michelle Ravel, Preston Snyder, Lunden Steele, Sydney Toops, Britney West, Bonita Worthington, Jessica Youngquist.

Sophomores: Cecily Conard, Alexandria Dodson, Brandon Fredrickson, Brianna Johnson, Alyson Keeney, Ethan Olson, Tamara Parks, Alicia Pierce, Matthew Ray.

Freshmen: Callie Brunswig, Kelton Cheline, Carolyn King, Tara Klein, Ryan Olson, Michael Sedam, Mallory Tharp, Rebekah Valencia, Riley Whitsitt, Kiersten Youngquist.

Freshmen: Cassie Campbell, Dalton McKee, Caleb Newell, Haley Osborn, Justine Peel, Cameron Smith, Lance Sperry, Miranda Tharp.

HONORS: 3.34 – 3.66 Seniors: Cody Battin, Kathryn Bertelsen, Lindsey Brentise, Hillary Campbell, Erin Flicek, Kayley Garner, Rachel Kenney, Corinne Sargent, Jonathon Shelton, Joshua Smith, Charles Vestal. Juniors: Shelby Chandler, Bradley Cook, Ashlie Douglas, Michael Galusha, Kelsie Lorincz, Beau Morrison, Adam Norvell.

Sophomores: Rachael Albert, Corey Armstrong, Sarah Cox, Emily Darrah, Amanda Hardesty, Jennifer Ischer, Olivia Kennedy, Kelsey Lee, Danton McMullin, Evon Mikulecky,

cole’s photography

Graduation photos available from the official United graduation photographer www.colesphoto.com 800-98COLES or 627-2546

2011-2012 CALENDAR FIRST SEMESTER

SECOND SEMESTER

August 8 August 9 August 18 August 19 August 22 August 23 September 5 September 29 September 30 September 30 October 10 October 28 November 11 Novembver 24 November 25 December 20 January 4 January 13

January 16 February 17 February 20 March 16 March 30 April 5-April 9 May 2 May 9 May 18 May 21 May 22 May 28 May 30

Registration Registration Teachers’ Institute Teachers’ Institute 11:30 Dismissal--Half-Day Attendance Full-Day Attendance No School--Labor Day 2:00 Dismissal--Parent/Teacher Conf. No School--Parent/Teacher Conferences Homecoming No School--Columbus Day 11:30 Dismissal--School Improvement No School--Veterans’ Day No School--Thanksgiving Day No School 2:00 Dismissal--Winter Break begins Classes Resume 2:00 Dismissal--End of Semester

Member FDIC Alpha 629-4361 New Windsor 667-2735

No School--Martin Luther King Day 11:30 Dismissal--School Improvement No School--President’s Day 11:30 Dismissal--School Improvement No School--Teachers’ Institute No School--Spring Break High School Pride Night High School Spring Concert Tentative Last Day Student Attendance Tentative Teachers’ Institute Tentative Report Card Day Memorial Day Athletic Physicals

Equal Housing Lender

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Aledo 582-3150

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Viola 596-2189

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51 toss the mortar boards as UHS graduates the Class of 2011

Congratulations United grads from Pierce Trucking

pierce trucking FOR ALL YOUR GRAIN AND ROCK HAULING NEEDS

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Softball team’s fourth trip to East Peoria the one they’ve been waiting for Bertelsen graduates as one of Illinois’ greatest softball players ever Continued from page 1 two runs needed to beat the Rebels 2-1. United went on to play Milledgeville in the super-sectional game held at Augustana College in Rock Island. With the help of a fiverun seventh inning, the girls beat the Lady Missiles 8-0 and found themselves playing at a very familiar field for the fourth year in a row. Toledo Cumberland proved to be an equal match for the Storm as United had a hard time hitting off Cumberland’s pitcher. However, in the third inning with two outs and a runner on second, Katie Kaywood hit a ball to left center, scoring the only run for United. That run was all Bertelsen needed to finish the game and head to her third state final game. Even with six runs

in their hands, the girls couldn’t keep the nerves away as the game inched closer and closer to the seventh inning. “Gus (Augusta Chandler) and I were shaking like crazy,” said Ashlynn Winkler. Bertelsen, however, showed no sign of nerves going into the seventh inning and she struck out the final three batters of the day. “It’s been a great four years,” said Bertelsen, “I’m really going to miss it.” The Southern Illinois University bound pitcher leaves United as one of the most decorated softball players in state history. Among her numerous records are most strikeouts in IHSA history, most shutouts in state history and a tie for most career victories with 103, despite missing parts of each season, including two weeks this year, with a variety of

Photo courtesy Monmouth Review-Atlas injuries. Bertelsen, along with Long, were unanimous selections to the all-conference team. Also earning first team honors were Kaywood and Patterson, while Chandler was named to the second team. Other post season

honors will be announced shortly, but it’s a safe bet to expect Bertelsen to pick up her fourth all-state mention, while leading hitters Long and Patterson could also pick up post-season honors consideration. United ended its championship season with a 29-4 record, and a four year run

with one title, two runner up finishes and a third place trophy with Bertelsen, Long, Kaywood, Chandler and fellow senior Rachel Kenney holding starting positions all four years.

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Top-seed falls to #4 in regional semis to end 20-4 season By Meg Olin It is up to debate how lucky the United baseball team was this year. With a 20-4 record and the top seed in their regional, it seems that luck--and talent--was on their side all year. However, luck was not on their side the day they faced ROWVA in the semifinals of regionals, ending

United’s best baseball team to date a little sooner than expected. Earlier this month, it seemed United was unstoppable when they beat Monmouth Roseville 5-3, earning them 20 wins and some serious bragging rights. Just last year, a victory over M/R would be unheard of.

Hull to continue pitching close to home

Nick Hull (center) won’t have to go far to continue his baseball career. The all-conference senior has signed to play at Monmouth College. Pictured along with his parents Tracy and Rhonda are United head coach Rick Johnson (back left) and pitching coach Lance Oetting (back right).

“Getting 20 wins is an accomplishment...beating Monmouth was just icing on the cake,” said center fielder Geoffrey Hahn. Going into regionals, United faced ROWVA, a team they had beaten twice in the the regular season. The game started out promising, with sophomore Danton McMullin blasting a two-run homerun in the second inning, giving United a 3-0 lead. Unfortunately, United seemed unable to get a break after that, losing 5-3 and ending their post season abruptly. Mike Wood, a senior and a valuable member of this season’s record breaking run said of the loss and the season, “This is the best team I’ve played with, of any sport. A regional title would have been sweet to get for Coach Johnson but

I hope we made up for it with a 20-4 record.” He also added that this may not be the last people have seen from United baseball. Among the handfull sticking around for another shot at a title are both McMullin and Hahn, along with Jackson Brentise, who will have to shoulder much of the pitching load after going 4-1 in limited duty

this year. Wood and Hahn were joined by Nick Hull in earning first team all-conference honors, with Hull receiving more votes than any other pitcher in the conference. Senior Alex Gavin was named second team infield, while both Brentise and McMullin were named honorable mention.

Former Yorkwood head coach to succeed Mann By Zane Carlson As the goodbyes are said this year, expect to see a new, yet familiar face, on

the court, leading the varsity girls basketball team to victory next year. On April 14, at the United School Board meeting, it was announced that Fred Lucas was appointed as the incoming head coach for girls’ basketball, replacing Dennis Mann, who is retiring at the end this year. Lucas, prior to teaching Industrial Arts and appointment of next year’s coaching position, coached Yorkwood’s varsity girls’ basketball team for two years as the assistant coach, and later on he spent five years as the Golden Bears head coach. “You know, I would have to say I’m definitely

looking forward to it,” said Lucas. It is expected that Mann’s assistant, Katie Grant, will return to run the freshman/sophomore team.

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Schag is lone United qualifier for track state finals A 4x200 relay qualifier as a junior, senior Katie Schag made it to state as a soloist this year. Schag, pictured (middle) right in 2010, qualified in the 100-meter hurdles by placing second at sectional. with a time of 16.8. At state, she finished eighth in her heat with a time of 17.65

“It was a lot of fun competing at state, but the girls were so much taller and stronger,” she said. The slowest finals qualifying time was 16.46, and the state champion, Paige Knodle of Byron, set a state finals record with a run of 14.35. While Schag was running at state, United’s

Winston heading to IC United senior Josh Winston will continue his athletic career in the fall as he’s signed with Jacksonville-based Illinois College. “I am extremely excited about having a 6-foot-6 tight end with good hands,” said Blueboys head coach

Garrett Campbell. :He will have a great opportunity to contribute as a freshman and fight for a starting position.” Winston is considering pharmacology for his major.

The Winstons (left to right), John, Josh and Carol, are all smiles after Josh announced he will attend Illinois College this fall where he will continue his football career with the Blueboys.

boys were competing at the Monmouth-Roseville Sectional. Both Brandon Trego in the 100-meter dash and Josh Winston in the hurdles made it to finals, but neither was able to advance. United’s other finals hopeful, sophomore Grant Schrock, was hampered by injuries late in the season. The close of the season also brought about the end of Dennis Mann’s coaching career after 34 years of teaching and coaching.

Wet weekend doesn’t deter FCA By Melissa McDonald On Saturday, May 14, the United High School FCA went on their fourth overnight trip to Camp Summit. A total of 27 students were involved in the retreat, along with several adult chaperones, including sponsor, Rick Johnson. Although the weather failed to hold up for the weekend activites, the campers still found ways to keep themselves entertained. The Schrader family conducted a series of Minute to Win It games, which kept the entire group highly amused.

After eating pizza from Little Ceasar’s, the campers listened to numerous praise and worship songs played by the Olsen family. There were also several speakers on Saturday night. including Carl Christenberry who talked about responsibility, Aaron Schilling who spoke about peace meditation, John Vandermoortel who talked about discipleship and leadership, Aubry Grahm who gave a testimony and spoke about TEC, Nick Havens and his view on friendship, Katy Schrader, and Eric Nicol who also gave a testimony. After the evening talks, the members spent the rest

of the night playing games such as casino and sequence until 1:00 a.m. Sunday morning began with a brunch at around 10:00 a.m., followed by a worship service and more music from the Praise and Worship Band. The group departed midafternoon, after palying a few more indoor games. Johnson said “Overall, I feel the retreat is a good way for the kids to get closer to God and each other. I hope we have enough enthusiasim for this trip to do a few more retreats next year.”

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