Communities Stick Together

Since Sunday, November 17,  there has been a huge cry for help in our neighboring community of Washington. The catastrophe of an F4 tornado created miles upon miles of destruction that not only left the city of Washington without power, but also left family after family without a home. Washington’s cry did not go unanswered. Within hours, cars full of people were swarming in to help, clogging the streets all around the path of destruction. It was clear that cleanup from such a huge disaster would take months, and because of how close we are to winter, it would take even longer. Neighboring communities have done what they can to help with “catastrophe relief efforts,” and people within those communities have gone above and beyond to help with what they can. Churches have provided shelters; the DMV has set up a base nearby for replacing drivers’ licenses, and even eyeglass stores have offered free replacements to anyone who lost their lenses in the storm.

Eureka High School is counted among these efforts. With power back on for school on Tuesday, our own Mr. Tapp made a great and valiant effort, putting together a team of over 40 students, six teachers and three chaperones to willingly take an excused day out of school to go and help with what they could on Friday, November 22. The team set out and tackled a family farm house, picking up as much rubble as they could from the huge yard in no more than two hours. After getting warmed up and eating lunch, they then attempted to help nearby Bethany Community Church. The Washington authorities had a tight hold on the perimeter, though, and that made it impossible for such a large group of people to get through and help. After that, our fearless leaders regrouped and quickly sent everyone off into the closest harvested field, and with nobody stopping them, they stacked up piles and piles of debris that landed in the field six days earlier, along with a five-gallon bucket half full of photographs they had all found in the field.

The mud was heavy in their boots from the rain, and the wetness in the air and cold wind from the field made everything look desolate, without even having to look west to see the town. Everyone came prepared with multiple layers of clothes, pairs of gloves, and buckets to make sure the job got done, and they were all more than happy to do it. The EHS group did as much as they could and were out volunteering from nine in the morning until three in the afternoon, and many did not want to stop there. 

Many people will continue to try and help with anything they can, though situations in Washington are changing every day. All anyone needs to do is ask around, or get a group together, and they will find numerous opportunities to help. Eureka High School is nowhere near done contributing, as Ms. McClure is taking a group of FFA members leaving from school at 8:30 a.m. on Wednesday, November 27. Paying attention to announcements and asking questions is incredibly important while helping Washington recover.

By: Junior Quincy McSweeney, Journalism editor

Photos by: Mrs. Michelle Monk

EHS arrives to clean up.

Looking out onto the empty, desolate field.

The students wait for instructions before beginning clean-up.

Students take a break for lunch.

A Glimpse into History

A birds-eye view of the American History students and teachers two floors down at the McLean County Museum. 

On Wednesday, November 6, the EHS American History students left all day for a field trip created and led by Ms. Bertschi and Mr. Breitbarth. On this trip, the students went to the Mennonite Museum, the Metamora Courthouse, and the McLean County Museum to learn about the way of life back in the 19th century that they could apply to their own family histories. Each museum displayed artifacts from the time period along with records and photographs of those who once lived. Junior Kaci Troth’s favorite part of the trip was the Metamora Courthouse stating that she enjoyed the speaker there who told stories from Abraham Lincoln’s life. Although that was her favorite, she really enjoyed the trip as a whole. “I thought it was interesting to go to a few different museums rather than just one, so we get different sources of information on different topics in history.” Junior Elesa Anthony added, “I can actually say I had fun on the trip! We were really there to learn about our history and everyone’s history in general. That was fascinating!” The girls both enjoyed how the information from this field trip could be related to students personally which helped them make a connection.

By: Junior Adriane Schoonover, Journalism staff

What's the Buzz?

As first semester starts coming to a close, Ms. Lowe continues to have her Journalism students working hard on impressing the school with their original work. Journalism is a great way to get out of your comfort zone and take the time to learn about people you are not familiar with. Currently, Journalism is writing many different types of reviews and articles to entertain students and their families. You can read some great previews and reviews of extra-curricular activities on the school website written by students of the Journalism class, as well as fun, random reviews and advice columns on the Journalism blog, http://whatsthebuzzehs.blogspot.com/. “It’s like English class, but it’s applied and you can see what your stuff looks like in the real world,” said Senior Alex Evans.  But the Journalism class isn't just publishing articles on the website. If you happen to pick up the Woodford County Journal, flip over to the Nautilus section, and read the "Senior Spotlights" and other articles all written by the students. Their goal is to showcase unique stories that capture the attention of everyone. If you have any unique stories to share, talk to any of the Journalism students. And make sure to order the 2014 yearbook, Our Story, and get a first hand account of the unknown stories of Eureka High School! This year is the first year where the Journalism class is in charge of organizing and designing the whole book. They’re planning to create a fun and unique yearbook that all students enjoy flipping through. “I think it’s coming together nicely and that the students will be pleased to see more variety of people and activities,” said Junior Co-Editor, Brie Dingledine. If you happen to have any pictures of any “buzz” around the school, e-mail them to Ms. Lowe or upload them to http://www.hjeshare.com/, school code "eureka," and you may see them in the yearbook!

By: Junior Abby Shoemaker, Journalism co-editor

Blood Drive Success

Mr. Glass looks quite relaxed as Red Cross worker gets him prepped.

Senior Zach Schaidle, Juniors Hunter Honeg, Maddie Plattner, Natalie Gladson and Jaxon Rieke, Seniors Kent Hinrichsen, Alex Evans and Eric Lind assemble with some interesting poses with Student Council sponsor, Mrs. Brace.

Mr. Wherley feels good as he gives a thumbs-up while trying to get his blood pumpin'. 

Senior Jonathan Troyer

Junior Hannah Hirstein

Junior Serena Bauman

The local Red Cross made their annual stop at EHS last Wednesday, November 13, giving students and faculty members an opportunity to donate their blood. The turnout was (AB)solutely awesome with a total of 49 people donating throughout the day. Before the day had started, Red Cross and EHS’s goal was to collect 41 pints of blood. EHS gave 45 pints of blood to the Red Cross for those in need! Red Cross would have received 49 pints, but they only received the 45 pints due to four people have issues giving blood. No one passed out this time unlike recent years. Everything ran very smoothly under the direction of Mrs. Janelle Brace. Senior Zach Schaidle told us that “This year was a lot better than last year. Everything went smoothly.” A big thanks to everyone who made a difference and helped saved lives.

By: Seniors Kylie Alwood and Darci Eastman, Journalism staff

Photos by: Mrs. Brace

Got Cheer?

Some people say, “Once is luck, twice is skill,” but the Eureka High School cheer team never needs a second try. Getting it done the first time, the squad never says no to a new routine and always goes full-force at every competition. Starting way back in the summer, the squad has been practicing weekly for the upcoming season. The squad continues to cheer into the fall months to ignite the fans and root on the football team. But during the upcoming winter months, the cheerleaders will be giving it their all at every game and their numerous competitions. Junior Kailee Getz has high expectations and is looking forward to many things this season. “All I want is to have fun with my team while we compete to do our best.” And that's exactly what they’re going to do. On Saturday, December 7, the cheer squad will be making their way to Pontiac for their very first competition of the 2013-2014 season. And Pontiac is only the beginning! Confidently anticipating the future, the cheer squad will continue to bond and develop audacity as they cheer their way to the State Finals.  

By: Senior Tate Taufer, Journalism staff

That's a Wrap

Letting the audience know that "love will always find you," the full cast freezes in their final pose before taking bows on opening night, Friday, November 15.

Written by: Senior Tate Taufer
Photos below submitted by: Michelle Griffieth 

What do you get when you cross many, very talented Eureka High School students, three extremely devoted directors, and one hilarious script? You get the energy-packed musical, "The Wedding Singer.” Senior Brandon Ellis was definitely a crowd pleaser as the lead, Robbie Hart. His rocker-style vocals and hilarious facial expressions paired with his natural comedic timing kept the audience entertained from start to finish. But he also showed a softer side. We’ve all had our share of bad days, but it’s difficult to compare any bad day to Robbie’s hardships faced by being stood up at the altar by his fiancé, Linda, played by Senior Constance Moushon. This role was definitely a stretch for Moushon, but she really rocked the vocals and dancing that came with Linda’s evil, over-the-top, “psycho” character. While trying to surpass the depression and jump back into the wedding band scene with his pals, George, played by Senior Kelly McCabe, and Sammy, played by Junior Austin Grusy, Robbie meets a new friend and realizes that he’s falling for the wedding waitress, Julia, played by Junior Makayla Fowler, who just so happens to be engaged to the wealthy and arrogant Glenn Gulia, played by Junior Tristen Birchenall. Fowler’s naturally sweet personality and strong vocals convinced the audience that it would be easy to fall in love with her, and Birchenall’s dark eye make-up and slimy, sneaky dialogue made him a convincing jerk of a fiancé. But the plot really gets tangled when Julia’s friend and cousin, Holly, decides to ask Robbie out. Sophomore Catherine Argo as Holly belted out her solos including “Saturday Night in the City” to close Act I. She looked great and sounded phenomenal as she ended up finding love in ex-boyfriend and airhead, Sammy, played by first-time actor Austin Grusy. They received a loud cheer as they opened their jackets to reveal “I’m With Stupid” and “Stupid” t-shirts during “Right In Front of Your Eyes.” More complications occur when Linda decides to come back into Robbie's life. Now Robbie is really caught in a pickle. Does he go for the familiar ex-fiancé, or does he start a new beginning with the funny, down to earth, and understanding Julia who has already hopped on a plane to Vegas with Glen? Fortunately, Robbie’s Grandma Rosie, played by Sophomore Claire Raney, is there to provide support and encouragement. Raney, in gray wig, bathrobe and hobbling on a walker, had great advice, groovy dance moves and “good meatballs.” As soon as Raney’s walker was heard opening on stage, the audience laughed before her dialogue even began. Ellis and Fowler provided the audience with a sweet, convincing love story, wrapped up nicely with the film’s famous song, “I Wanna Grow Old With You.”

As an audience member, it was easy to sit back and enjoy and the show, but as a cast member, life was a little different. When asked what they thought about Friday night’s performance, Sophomore Claire Raney said, “Friday night was the best we've ever done, even in rehearsal we never did that good. Everyone on the dance scenes were so tight and spot on. Being backstage in the dressing room, everyone was so excited and full of energy. We were so excited for opening night!” Senior Miranda Stahl also had positive input. “I think we did an amazing job. Everyone knew their lines, cues, and all of it went really smoothly. We all worked so hard and it definitely showed in our performance.” And senior star Brandon Ellis commented that the best part was, “Wow, every last breathing moment. From the first time I set my foot upon the top riser waiting for my cue, it was just an adrenalin rush. It was a fun experience and a learning one, but it went by too fast!” And Senior Kelly McCabe added, “The best part of being in this show for me was the character I got to play. In the past I've always played the young overly happy but also depressed female child that ends up happy at the end. This year was totally different. I played George, the fun loving, flamboyant, girly man, who plays keyboards in Robbie's wedding band. George is a great character and was so much fun to play. How often does a teenage girl get to act like a flamboyant girly man? My costumes were over the top, my makeup was insane, and I had tons of fun songs and funny moments in the show. My favorite moment had to be singing, "Move that Thang" with Claire as Grandma Rosie! I had a lot of fun and couldn't have asked for a better part or a better musical to go out with on my senior year.” And that was also a crowd favorite. “Move that Thang” received full audience participation evident by everyone clapping with the beat throughout the song. Junior Austin Grusy also stated, “The best part was being able to spend time with and get to know the rest the cast! It was much different from hanging out with the basketball team! I love being able to fit in with any type of person! I got to see them be themselves and it was amazing! I loved making the new friends!”

Setting all the very talented students together on one stage worked out magnificently, but it wouldn’t have looked or sounded as great without the backstage leadership of Senior Meghan Morrow who made sure the scene changes remained under two minutes. Junior Matt Rohde programmed the killer lighting sequences that were very new to the stage, and of course, sound master Eric Lind capped off his final show as a senior by making sure the cast sounded amazing on the mics. But it all starts with a leader, and in this case, three of them known as the Triumvirate. Skillful and accomplished, Ms. Lowe, Mrs. O’Donnell and Mrs. Roorda directed this cast to one of the best musicals the school has ever seen. One can see by the enthusiasm, dedication, packed auditorium, and overall talent displayed by the cast, crew, and directors that "The Wedding Singer" will be a hard show to beat. 

Junior Austin Grusy and Seniors Brandon Ellis and Kelly McCabe come front and center to conclude the opening number, "It's Your Wedding Day."

Sophomore Claire Raney tallies up the number of men Grandma Rosie has kissed while Senior Brandon Ellis barely hides his disgust.

Senior Brandon Ellis rocks the opening number!

Senior Constance Moushon taints Robbie Hart's Van Halen t-shirt as she tries to come back into his life as ex-fiance, Linda.

Brandon Ellis leads Sophomores Matt Wilder and Susanna Getz, Senior Jonah Martz and Sophomores Emily Ferguson and Amanda Pippen in the "Thriller" dance as the mutants at table 9 show what it means to be a "Casualty of Love."

The cast performs for Jarad Shapiro's (Senior Eric Smith) bar mitzvah in "Today You Are a Man."

Juniors Tristen Birchenall and Makayla Fowler get some fresh air outside the dance club.

Warming Up

Are you ready for the snow to start falling and cold weather? Well, it's just around the corner, and with it comes boy's basketball. The varsity team just kicked off their season with their first practice on Monday, November 11. Senior Tate Taufer said, “I can’t wait till we start. I am excited to be playing with the guys.” This season, the seniors can’t wait to play at home. The Hornets lost Jared McCunn, one of the most versatile players to play for the Hornets, and it will be hard to replace him. The Hornets open their season at the IVC Thanksgiving Tournament in a couple weekends. But for Tate Taufer, he can’t wait until the Christmas tournament which is in Macomb. “We always play good there, and it’s just an amazing tournament to be in,” said Tate Taufer. As a team, the only thing on their mind is winning a regional. They have contested the past two years but fell short every year. “We need to compete for the regional, and hopefully we can win one this year,” said Coach Aaron Dohner. The boys open their basketball season at home on Friday, December 6 against the Olympia Spartans. So come out, and support the team on a new, amazing season.

By: Senior Phil Schmidgall, Journalism staff

FFA Helps the Hungry

 

It’s that time of year again! The FFA will host a canned food drive starting December 2. All of District 140 students can participate by bringing cans to class for prizes. To round out the drive, FFA members will collect donations door to door in the town of Eureka on December 17 from 4:00-6:00 p.m. All cans collected will be donated to a local Food Pantry. This is a great way to help those who are in need this Holiday Season. Donating to the food pantry is one way you can give back to your community. We hope to have another successful year! The Eureka FFA would like to thank you for your ongoing support!

By: Junior Olivia Robinson, FFA reporter

Check it Out--Student Profile

Sophomore Catherine Argo is performing in the fall musical production of The Wedding Singer as Holly Sullivan, the fun, outrageous cousin and friend to Julia (Makayla Fowler). Catherine has been singing for ten years and enjoys singing more than acting, but she does both equally well. She is truly a natural talent. She describes her excitement for the musical by saying, “Oh my gosh! I get to kiss my boyfriend (Brandon Ellis as Robbie Hart) and dress up in the 80’s style!” Catherine feels that the musical has made her a social butterfly by giving her time to hang out with her friends but also make new ones. As a career, Catherine has thought about being a backup singer on Broadway or an agent for a young singer. Before she runs off to the Big Apple, catch her as she lights up the EHS auditorium stage in this year's musical.

By: Junior Bridgette Connolly, Journalism staff

Wake Me Up Before (All the Musical Tickets) Go Go!!

This year's musical is a blast from the past. Adapted from the big screen onto our stage, The Wedding Singer, will not disappoint. Starring Senior Brandon Ellis as Robbie Hart, Junior Makayla Fowler as Julia Sullivan and many other EHS students, the talent will blow you away. Opening night is this Friday, November 15 at 7:30 p.m., and if you miss that, you can catch two shows on Saturday, November 16--a 2:00 matinee and a 7:30 p.m. show. You can get your tickets a half hour before each showtime. But don't wait! Get your tickets now from the main and attendance offices at EHS. Tickets are just $6.00 for adults and $5.00 for students and seniors. This is one hilarious musical production you don't want to miss.

Written by: Senior Marissa Dingledine, Journalism staff

Happy Halloween Helpers

Costumes, candy, and cake--the perfect combination for Congerville Elementary School’s PTO Carnival on Friday, October 25. Because this event provided hours of family fun, volunteers were crucial. Members of National Honor Society, an organization for excelling students here at EHS and sponsored by Ms. Allison Zeller and Mrs. Kim Willi, stepped up to the plate and took this as opportunity to receive service hours. Senior Brian Spurgeon is one of many students involved in NHS who volunteered. “The PTO carnival in Congerville is a small scale version of the Davenport carnival with its own little farm community twist,” he stated. The “the farm community twist” definitely showed through in several of the activities. Hay rack and horseback rides were just two of them that Brian listed. Taylor Krile, a junior NHS member, said that she assisted with a game called “Fling the Ring” where a student would try to throw a ring onto a bowling pin. If the student was successful they were awarded with a piece of candy. Though this event did allow NHS members to receive time towards their needed 15 service hours, that is not the only reason they volunteered. Spurgeon said, “I really wanted to help out because I remember being that same age and getting very worked up over the Davenport PTO carnival and figured it was my turn to share the joy.”

Written by: Junior Adriane Schoonover

A Day in the Life--Coming to a Close

Easy breezy bar lift for Senior Melissa McGregor in Mrs. Geirnaeirt's girl's P.E.

Fancy footwork is needed in Mr. Charleton's Advanced P.E. class today.

Freshmen Elizabeth Syndram and Caitlyn Perlingiero support each other as they make their way from class to class on boot and crutch.

Senior Sarah Hartman is no dummy when it comes to working her biceps on the dumbbells.

Both hugging and attacking simultaneously, Juniors Maddie Plattner, Kylie Davis and Kelli Jones play on the punching bag.

Junior Jordan Punke and Freshman Audrey Jones take their eyes off the screen to focus on the camera.

Mrs. Sweet leads Desi Washburn to the bus at the end of the day.

After a busy Tuesday, Gillian Rocke boards the bus. 

Mrs. Mahannah poses in a selfie with Juniors Travis Sizelove and Tracy Woolard.

Lending a helping hand, Freshmen Zayne Fawley and Gary Bybee work together in Mrs. Wertz's Study Lab.

Mr. Wherley and Mr. McLaughlin get close for a selfie.

Birthday buddies Mr. Wherley and Sophomore Kelly Mahaffey give up two thumbs in support of November 5th!

That's right. 50!

This rainy Tuesday, a seemingly mundane day in the grand scheme of the week, turned out to be a fantastic and fun FIFTIETH photo share. Thanks to Mr. Wherley and all of the teachers for sharing your day. 

A Day in the Life--Third Floor Woes

With no restroom on the third floor, how could one possibly make it to the restroom AND be back in time to greet students as they come to class? Impossible you say? Let's see!

A Day in the Life--Waiting for the Bell

Mrs. Rieke takes a little break to give a sweet smile.

Freshman Drew Worrick is distracted by the camera as the rest of Mr. Miller's Global Culture's students listen intently.

Mrs. Sluder flashes the Speech team's most recent trophy from the Tremont tournament.

Mr. Bill instructs one of his Chem classes.

Senior Meghan Morrow works on the computer in Mr. Bill's room.

Sophomore Mady Reese draws shapes while working diligently on her Geometry in Mr. Glass's class.

Mrs. Kirby's class circles up to complete their work.

Mr. Glass's Geometry class continues to work on their assignment.

Mrs. Brown leads a counselor's meeting with Mr. Bachman. 

A Day in the Life--Afternoon Delight

Mrs. Brace and Sydny Brand discuss what needs to be done in Study Lab.

Working in the lab!

Looks like the coaches team up for a meeting!

A Day in the Life--Lunch Served

Seniors Emily Houlihan, Ross Hettinger, Ashton Mathews, Jenni Phillips and Junior Kennedy Taylor enjoy just another great lunch in the cafeteria.

Serving it up, Seniors Miranda Stahl, Tate Taufer and Robert Howell dish students and faculty their lunches. 

Freshman Justin McCunn serves teachers their mail before going to lunch.

As Student Council service reps, Seniors Alex Evans and R.J. Lorenz sell End the R-Word t-shirts and take pledges during their lunch hour.

Where can Mr. Sinn be found during his lunch hour? He is serving up help to Freshman Spencer Crow.