Bishop Miege High School In the Miegian... Luke Wheeler’s Christmas Diaries Volume 55 Issue 4 p. 4 Christmas Mission Trip December 2011 p. 8-9 Black Friday Madness (A semi-fictional account of Christmas Eve/Day through the eyes of Luke Wheeler) p. 15 Senior Stag Football
11:00 a.m.: As I stroll down the stairs on an early morning for a 7 p.m.: Secret Santa time. For the third year in a row, I have one growing boy like myself, I notice something different in the air. of my sisters. Thank the Lord there is a little store called Claire’s What’s that I smell, some cinnamon rolls, possibly a hint of double that just loves to give me holiday gift ideas, yet every year I must chocolate chip cookies? Excellent, my day will start off with a tell them, “ NO, I DO NOT HAVE A GIRLFRIEND, this is for my breakfast of champions. sister..”
12:30 p.m.: After swindling the rights to the remote from my little 9:30 p.m.: I have no shame. I will admit that I am watching “Elmo sister, I get down to business building my NFL Street team on Saves Christmas,” one of the least known, but best Christmas mov- GameCube. Every day is dif- ies of all time. I won’t ferent on NFL Street because I spoil the story, so do have never sprung for a mem- yourself a favor and ory card, so I feel as if I start find a copy. It won’t fresh every day. disappoint.
1 p.m.: The remote has been 11:30 p.m.: Off to taken away by a higher power. bed. No visions of Mother insists on turning on sugar plums dance some Christmas movies. After in my head, because some logical arguments on why they look repulsive, nobody should be subjected although I have never to another 24 hour Hallmark actually eaten one. Christmas special fail, I pro- ceed to the next meaningful 3 a.m.: My fifth trip to endeavor of the day, baking “the bathroom.” As I some cookies fit for the high peer downstairs, I see expectations of the only man I that the big man has will ever bake cookies for.... Santa. already arrived.. Almost seventeen years, and not one of my traps has worked on him. He always seems to be one step ahead of me. 2 p.m.: Preparations are under way for the longest Mass of the year at St. Ann. Last year’s debacle when we had to sit all the way in the 5 a.m.: My first attempt to wake up the house has failed. “One more Baptismal font was quite the ordeal, especially after it got to a blaz- peep from you, and you will not come out of your room.” I’ve been ing 80 degrees in the Church when the 1500 “CEO’s,” or Christmas stifled. and Easter Only people showed up in full force. 8 a.m.: Six hours of Gameboy have sustained me through the night, 5 p.m.: Mass is ended, but the ordeal is not over. My mother loves I refuse to admit that I dosed off even once. to chat, as many Miegians might know, so it will likely be another 45 minutes until we’re back to my house, which is only around 8 8 a.m and 24 seconds: I shred into my presents, sniffing each one to blocks away. make sure coal would not spill out.
6:30 p.m.: The annual Christmas spill has been completed by my 9:30 a.m.: Another successful Christmas Eve and morning has been sister (I won’t reveal her identity, but just a hint, it begins with an completed. Sitting on the couch with a sizable stock of candy at my “E”) Her sparkling cider runs across the table like a river of sweet side, and my family around me, including my dog Rudy, who looks filthiness. Luckily, we have prepared for this, as it has become an a little pudgy at the moment in his snug Santa’s Helper sweater, I annual event. feel content, and a tad bit drowsy... THE MIEGIAN Opportunities from Catholic Charities Robotics’ Red Bag Helps Spread Christmas Cheer Give.Hope. News By: SamJezak gear. Students contribute money and Miege is a part of. Despite the fact Give.Hope. is collecting cards with messages of hope through time to go shopping to fill out the we may not know these children, we Facebook and Twitter, as well as on their website and giving them to the Program staff writer wish list. all get just as excited to give to these clients they serve. This is a simple but meaningful way to donate this kids as we would to give to our own Christmas season to families that may need some joy and hope in their While many people say friends and families. Since freshman lives. Reaches Out it is better to give than receive, year I remember every Red Bag we the sentiment is rarely followed have had and the fun and thought put anymore. At Miege, however, the out just to wrap the presents. Also, Christmas Toy Store (2220 Central Avenue, Kansas City, KS) to Elementary giving spirit is alive and well. The everybody feels like they have given Catholic Charities is accepting donations of toys for the Christmas 28th annual Red Bag fundraiser something to these kids. Whether Toy Store. This store helps ensure that needy families will have a joyous helps children who otherwise might time, wrapping paper, actual presents, holiday season. The Christmas Toy Store will be providing more than Students not have Christmas presents. These money or just help, the entire Miege 300 Wyandotte County families with toys, socks and underwear. Toy children usually come from low- body can proudly say they made a lot donations, especially for teenagers, are appreciated. By: BenHire income families, foster homes, and of kids’ Christmases.” other areas of need, according to Theology teacher Ms. staff writer the Campus Ministry Team. Sonya Salazar says the Volunteer Anywhere Christmas Families, based in project carries its own The holidays are tough on everyone especially the less fortunate. Bishop Miege’s Robotics team Overland Park, organizes rewards, “The Red On your Christmas Break please consider giving your time, the most is now welcoming 7th and 8th graders the project. Bag wrapping party generous gift of all, to those struggling in these tough economic times. into a new program where students Each home- is the best. While we are designing and programming Lego room is assigned a wrap presents, we robots. child and provided listen to Christmas These 7th and 8th grade stu- with his or her wish Junior carols, drink cocoa, and dents are being taught by Mr. Scott list. Items on the wish Aubrey Rumore says have a good time.” Anderson, Mr. Andrew Groene and list can include shoes, about the project, “Red Bad members of the Stag robotics team. clothes, toys and sports is a very personally rewarding event One week remains to participate in the program which is available until Miegians Conquer Stereotypes at Unitown Thursday, Dec. 15, at the Bishop Miege North Campus. The cost is $50 per stu- affects those present. Unitown to everyone. By: EmoryLacy dent with a $1 service charge. Trending now at Miege... Games not related to racism, sexism, By 3 p.m. Monday, Dec. 5, nearly every There are currently only six hetero-sexism, or classism brought teamwork delegate and counselor had cried, new bonds had staff writer members, so there are still many avail- and bonding into the been created • Facets staffers are wearing their new buttons to draw attention to the soon- able spots. St. Ann, St. Agnes and St. approaching submission deadline. Submit to Facets in rm. 141. retreat. Family Groups among what Joe all have students who are partici- Delegates from Bishop Miege, Bishop created special bonds used to be pating in this inaugural year. •The Bishop Miege choir performed at the lighting of the Mayor’s Christmas Ward, St. Thomas Aquinas, and Notre Dame de almost instantly. complete Mr. Anderson says that this tree (picture below). Sion all participated in the first of two annual Topics were discussed, strangers, program is mostly just an intro to ro- CMT Unitown retreats Dec. 4 and 5, sleeping and time flew by, but in 24 botics. All of the students who are in- • Look for the Miege choir singing on NBC Action News, channel 41, on Christmas Day. in classrooms Sunday night. Problems such as only for the clock to hours later, volved have already done Lego robot- racism, classism, hetero-sexism, and sexism were strike midnight and participants ics, which is not quite as advanced as • This Sunday, Dec. 11, the choir and band will be performing their annual Christmas concert at 3 p.m. in the discussed by the 50+ teenagers there. delegates be sent agreed minds, Miege robotics. Usually the students Auditorium. There is a confidentiality oath taken at the downstairs to rooms to perspectives, will be given a challenge to complete • Finals start Wednesday, Dec. 14 and conclude the following Monday, Dec. 19. beginning, so specific Unitown experiences cannot sleep. Alarms rang at and lives had during the session. One of the meet- be discussed outside of Unitown. The problems the break of dawn, and been changed. ings involved making a device that • Christmas break ends and classes resume Jan. 4. discussed, though, can be openly talked about and with little to no sleep, Another could launch a baseball 25 feet into a explained to give an idea of what goes on in the 24 the 50+ delegates met Unitown is bucket. • Miege Quarterly Update will air next Tuesday, hours of the retreat. as Family Groups in tentatively Many current members of the Dec. 13, during STAG. Diversity is key to the program. Counselors the hallway to make scheduled Stag robotics team are excited about and delegates are in two separate programs, the journey over to St. for the spring the oppportunity to work with and • The junior varsity Quiz Bowl team took first in though both share in the unique experience of what Agnes to continue the of 2012. teach younger students. Daniel Mitch- the Turner Invitational. Unitown is. Discussions range from how racism is retreat. Facilitator ell, junior, believes that this program present to how it affects people. Racism lead into Junior Airick will show younger students how fun • Junior Ana Hodes and her family won Devel- classism. Classism is defined as discriminating Shannon Gentry went Leonard West and interesting robotics can actually opment’s “Chance of a Lifetime” drawing. against a person or persons in a lower class whether on the retreat, and afterwards rated it 10 on a scale will work with Miege, St. Thomas Aquinas, Bishop be. that be social, financial, etc. Classism discussions of 1-10. She said the experience was “inspiring and Ward, Paseo, and Notre Dame de Sion to confirm a • After-Prom will be held at Emerald City this He said, “In my opinion, this year. ranged from where it was seen in lives to how it eye-opening.” Gentry said she would recommend date. will inspire many new members to join. If we get enough interest, it could bring our team over the top.” Page 2 www.bishopmiege.com December 9, 2011 December 9, 2011 www.bishopmiege.com Page 3 August found the Stags in a storm-ravaged Joplin; December sends them to Alabama Miege Website Revamped and Redesigned Students are Ready for their Christmas Mission To Offer Easier Navigation and Accessibility By: CatherineStrayhall vice hours while meeting new people. Katrina,” commented Mrs. Perrini. while also experiencing travel to new Leah Kellerman, a junior, said, “I feel While in Birmingham this year, Miege’s places. By: CatherineStrayhall the process in April and completed ways for people to contribute to the Miege offers. the process with the launch…” Trem- school financially. “We have a useful tool called staff writer like it is a fun way to help those who group will be staying at a church. Danny looks forward to re- need it most.” She also mentioned her Juniors Emma Welch and Ad- building while he’s hanging out with staff writer onti explained, referencing the launch The old and new websites ‘Google Analytics’ (back end feature) of the new website in mid-November. share some similarities: the tool bar/ which provides detailed statistics The holidays bring together excitement to be going on her first mis- die Pittman had both been on a mission friends, and he has much rebuilding Though Miege has had a chaos and laughter, family and friends, sion trip. trip to Arkansas, with Addie having and work ahead of him. The death The redesign was part of the service headings and their content are the about visitors to the website,” Trem- website for more than seven years, it agreement Miege has with iModules. same, as well as the alumni informa- onti also said when listing new attri- fighting and fun mem- also gone toll from tornadoes in 2011 is 549, as has never been this easy to use, this ories. But this year, on the trip reported on the National Oceanic and “The Development Office redesigned tion and the option of sponsoring butes of the website. She added that clear cut, or this stylistically appeal- the site after researching many other after severe weather to Joplin Atmospheric Administration’s web- ing. stormed through the in another site. That statistic doesn’t include all websites of both secondary schools Mrs. Susan Tremonti, Miege and universities,” said Tremonti. U.S. in the spring, tornado of the injured people and homes lost or vice president of development, said some families in Ala- clean-up their stories. that the school’s revamped website bama will need extra offers people quick access to infor- support to rebuild Goals to accomplish in the mation about Miege and connects revamped version of the website in- from the tornadoes alumni and all members of the Miege that struck the South cluded creating an easily navigable community. Since Miege signed a site for everyone, providing informa- this last spring. This contract with iModules in June of Christmas season, tion about events and academics at 2004 and created a website, no key the school, and showcasing “…cur- Miege students will updates had been made. be going on a National rent students and their accomplish- “We had been discussing up- ments,” listed Tremonti. The web- Relief Network spon- dates and a redesign for more than a sored trip to Birming- site designers also sought to provide year. Following some research and prospective students and parents in- ham, Alabama, to “… discussion with iModules, we began remove debris, tear formation about Miege, and to offer down homes that have been condemned, Earn college credit while in high school clear trees or brush or rebuild homes de- stroyed,” according to Miege students worked through the heat in their efforts to clean up and help re- the Bishop Miege web- build Joplin. photo by Renee Schultz site.
Ac- effort. The best part for cording to Addie “…was coming Mrs. Mary together with people I Perrini, CMT normally wouldn’t talk director, to. The most moving part volunteers is the homeowners we The new homepage for the school website displays news, upcsoming from Miege work for.” Emma felt that events, and lniks to information on other components of Miege. will leave meeting a woman who via charter inspired her in Arkansas Bible verses and words and quotes from Scrip- the school online. However, the new so far, the site has met expectations, bus on Dec. on her spring break NRN ture covered the remains of a Joplin house. website also has a new homepage, and that the response has been “Very 27 and re- trip affected her the most. photo by Renee Schultz with added elements and links for positive.” turn on Jan. From New York City to the “Mission trips are life-changing expe- students, parents and faculty. Trem- One of the new parts of the 1. Students Appalachian Mountains to Kansas riences,” says Addie. They “make us onti stated that the weekly Friday website is the Quicklinks feature be- have differ- City, Miege offers numerous mission more appreciative of what we have.” parent emails were posted on the site, low upcoming events that “…takes ent reasons trips every year, and has opportunities More than thirty Miege stu- “College Now classes give you an advantage that the site featured a School News you to specific areas the school can for taking Tornadoes during 2011 tore apart not only Joplin, but cities in stadium cleanups, leaf-raking days, dents will be going on the trip to Ala- section, and that online visitors can highlight,” said Tremonti. Sometimes these days in North Carolina, Alabama, Oklahoma, Kansas and other selling coupon books and more for stu- bama. Mrs. Perrini hopes “...that they the second you start college.” access publications like the Almost the Quicklinks are not accessible, and out of their unlucky states. photo by Renee Schultz dents to earn the hundreds of dollars can learn the value of volunteering and Libby, transferred 21 College Now credits to Ohio State University Miegian, the Stag Trumpeter, and the may therefore be one of the technical Christmas mission trips take to accomplish. They how much of a difference a few people Miege viewbook, which summarizes issues that Tremonti admitted are still break. Senior Danny Miller wanted to This isn’t the first time Miege has then have a chance to help the poor, can make.” College Now at Johnson County Community College is the only nationally accredited the education and opportunities that being worked on. go on a mission trip because he thought gone to Alabama’s aid. “We went back sick, elderly, or those recovering from concurrent program in Kansas. See your school counselor for details or visitwww.jccc.edu/collegenow it seemed like a good way to earn ser- in 2006-2007 to Mobile after Hurricane natural disasters across the country,
Page 4 www.bishopmiege.com December 9, 2011 December 9, 2011 www.bishopmiege.com Page 5 The Band Perry... Features 5 minutes with . . . Coming to Town
By: NiyahMiller Faces of Country tour in 2005. Perry’s voice is refreshingly In 2008 The Band Perry unpolished, leaning more on a staff writer was discovered by Garth Brooks’ sassy personality than auditory manager Bob Doyle, who perfection. The band’s first
The Band Perry is more The Johnson Twins than just a country music group. They are a family, literally. Kimberly, Reid and Neil Perry ally hang began singing in Alabama as By: KarlNetemeyer out at children. They are originally from Greeneville, Tennessee. staff writer home. We Kimberly started out singing normally go on her own, and Neil and Reid Senior year is a busy time. A time full home, sang together. They traveled of varsity sports, a time full of decisions about to different states to perform college. As you walk through senior hall, in contests, but then the three you most likely see the class of 2012 running siblings united to form “The around like chickens with their heads chopped Band Perry” and joined a New off. Two of the busiest “chickens” would watch have to be the Johnson twins, Quanzee and TV, eat, Shamirah. Shamirah, or as she likes to be fight, watch When I Was 17... called, Shay, is a CMT leader and plays basket- more TV, fight ball for the Lady Stags. Quanzee is also a CMT some more,” Mr. TIM Grunhard (1985) leader, played football and plans to bowl and said Shay. Quanzee Nickname- Oval head do track. The Johnson twins are usually hard added, “I like to bug to find together without one of them going off her. We don’t hang out much helped them make recordings. single, Hip to My Heart, was a to do something. On a cold Monday morning, because we are both so busy, High School- St. Laurence in Chicago, IL. These were sent to the newly sprightly, lighthearted number I was finally able to get ahold of the two of whether it’s work, practices or established Republic Nashville meant to catch country radio’s them. CMT, both of us are rarely ever label, and The Band Perry signed attention. Making better use of As we sat down, the twins began to at home,” he explained. Sports/ activities- Football, baseball, and track in August 2009 and released its acoustic-based sound on the their hit single, Hip to My Heart. rest of the album, the harmonies argue about something that had happened Even though they Favorite clothing- Snakeskin cowboy boots and a flannel shirt After releasing Hip to are sweet as Kimberly pleads the previous night. The two argued for a few don’t hang out at home, they My Heart (November 2009), If to be a guy’s only girl on All minutes before I stopped them. They told me are extremely close. Asked to I Die Young (June 2010), You Lie Your Life. These young up- about their names: Quanzee means “king” and describe each other, neither hesi- Favorite song- “Come on Eileen” from Dexy Midnight Runners (January 2011), and All Your Life and-comers boldly take on the Shamirah means “loved.” The twins think their tated. Shay described her brother (August 2011), The Band Perry topic of abandoned children. names help make them unique. as “funny, annoying, and fun to be Favorite subject- German “Einen schonen tag noch!” (Have a is on its way to the top. All four Though the lyrics are at times When asked who was older, the twins around.” Quanzee pointed out that nice day!) singles hit number one on the pointless, the trio’s songwriting both answered, “Me!” They argued about it for that was three words. Shamirah Hot Country Music charts, also efforts throughout the album are awhile before Shamirah finally came clean. “ shot him another look. Quanzee going triple platinum. commendable. All right, Quanzee’s older by about ten min- described Shamirah as “athletic, Siblings- brother Dan As revealed throughout When they come to The Band Perry’s debut the Sprint Center on Jan. 19 at utes, but that’s it.” Quanzee shook his head weird, and goofy,” putting extra proudly, smiled and said, “And I’ll never let emphasis on goofy. Favorite movie- Stripes... “Army training, sir!” album, this promising sibling 7:30 p.m., The Band Perry will trio’s dreamy, poetic sound is be performing along with Brad you forget it, right little sister?” Shamirah When it came to parents, adequately commercial, but Paisley and Scotty McCreery. replied, “Well, I still act older.” Quanzee shot they argued about which twin was Role model- Football coach Jim Corannon more reflective and attractive Tickets are on sale now. her a look, and she added, “Don’t you dare tell the favorite. Quanzee soon said, than typical radio fare. Kimberly him.” He begged her for a about a minute be- “I’m just playing, Shamirah’s the Car- 1975 Ford Fairmont fore she finally said, “Fine, you can talk about goody two shoes, who gets her it later.” way all the time.” Memorable moment- scholarship to Notre Dame The Johnson twins described a typical “I do not!” Shamirah evening in their household. “We don’t usu- exclaimed.
Page 6 www.bishopmiege.com December 9, 2011 December 9, 2011 www.bishopmiege.com Page 7 A Very Merry Miege Christmas What’s Your Favorite Christmas TV What’s Your Favorite Holiday? Special? What’s your favorite Christmas song? Christmas 61.9% How the Grinch Stole Christmas 54.4% All I Want For Christmas is You 31%
Thanksgiving 18.7%
Charlie Brown Jingle Bell Christmas 25.6% Rock 24% Rudolph the Red Nosed Santa Claus is Coming Reindeer 20% 4th of July 11.9% To Town 17%
Halloween 6% Little Drummer Boy 10%
Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer 14% Information compiled by Sam Jezak Merry Christmas from The Miegian! Little St. Nick 4% from a polling of 300 students Valentine’s Day 1.5% Colleen Gaughan gives The Miegian an inside look at the madness of Black Black Friday: Friday, accompanied by Kate Thorson and Heather and Mollie McDonald ColleenGaughan out with their new TV. ing. we’re now the crazy people who arrived ridiculously early. 4:29 After an unsuccessful search, we decide going to QuikTrip is Editor in Chief 12:11 Kate successfully hunts down the vacuum as I try to keep 2:03 The Red Bull girls hand out energy drinks to everyone to 3:17 Spot Mabry Keel in the crowd and continue to wave and yell our only option and jump in the car. up, maneuvering our giant cart through the aisles. keep them awake. his name until he comes to talk to us. 4:37 Walk out of QuikTrip feeling much better. 11:03 Arrive at Target and squeeze in line among the hundreds of 12:24 Out of the corner of her eye, Kate sees the body pillow of 2:07 Realize H&M opens at 6:00... not 3:00. Begin wandering the 3:38 Realize after drinking a red bull and two hot chocolates, I re- other brave souls patiently awaiting the midnight opening. her dreams and adds it to the cart to join the vacuum and eye Plaza in hopes of finding a store that opens earlier. ally had to go to the bathroom. 4:44 Rush back to Urban Outfitters and scour the sales racks that shadow she had grabbed along the way. are now completely swarmed with people. 11:08 After five long minutes of standing line, Heather and Mollie 2:14 Although there is no line yet, we discover Urban Outfitters 3:57 The doors finally open and we rush downstairs to the sales leave to find us hot chocolate to make the cold more bearable. 1:18 Return to the car to lay out our plan for the rest of the night. opens at 4:00 and would be our best bet. We’re the first in line. rack as the bottom floor is quickly flooding with people. 4:56 Successfully pick out a few steals and jump in the check-out Heather and Mollie decide to head home while Kate and I choose line that is now wrapped around the store. 11:12 Kate and I make small talk with the man in front of us to continue our night at the Plaza. 2:35 We are joined by four other kids who boost our self-confi- 4:15 Come to the realization there’s no way I’m going to make it whose wife sent him with a Christmas list, credit card, and adver- dence by laughing at everything we say. if I don’t find a bathroom immediately and begin begging every 5:00 Serenade Kate with “It’s 5:00 in the morning...” tisement booklet. 1:32 Kate and I make a quick stop at her house. Kate puts on employee in sight to let me use their bathroom, but I am rejected warmer clothes while I hear words of wisdom from Chris Ebert 2:48 Check Facebook for the seventh time and tweet Kate for the every time. 5:28 Finally reach the counter and make our purchases. 11:37 With the help of a Target employee, Kate maps out the who is on Xbox Live with Kate’s brother. third time. quickest route to the Dyson DC 24 vacuum her cousin sent her to 4:21 Kate quietly strategizes what to do in the event that I actually 5:42 Jump into my bed and begin strategizing for next year. buy. 1:54 Secure a spot in the parking lot closest to H&M. 2:54 Our new friends bring us hot chocolate from QT. lose control of my bladder in public.
12:01 The crowd goes wild as the first customers proudly walk 1:59 Join the line at H&M and begin waiting for the 3 a.m. open- 3:05 Realize the line is now winding around the building, and 4:23 Race through the Plaza searching for a bathroom. Page 8 www.bishopmiege.com December 9, 2011 December 9, 2011 www.bishopmiege.com Page 9 THE MIEGIAN STAFF One Homeless Night And A Diary Editors-in-Chief - STAGgering Thoughts Jeff Agar Colleen Gaughan Opinion By: JeffAgar fines of the gym. A staggering have some “bro-ments.” We do statistic is delivered by a Synergy indeed have some quality bro-time, What is your New Year’s Resolution? Staff Members - services rep: more than 2,000 young with jokes and stories aplenty, but Editor in Chief Jackson Griffin people are homeless in Kansas City eventually I simply put my head “To grow a few more inches.” Mason Hans The following takes place at a given time. That’s almost three down and let sleep slowly creep in. •Freshman Abbie Hair Ben Hire between the hours of 7 p.m. and 7 times the number of students at 3:00 a.m.: Alllllllright, good morning Sam Jezak a.m. on the days of Nov. 10 and 11. Miege. That’s crazy. guys! That was fun, but I’m ready Emory Lacy Events occur in real time. 10:00 p.m.: On a less serious note, to…wait…you’re telling me it’s only “To hang out with Claire Niyah Miller 7:05 p.m.: And so my evening of my group just won Mrs. Perrini’s 3 in the morning?!? Mitchell everyday.” Karl Netemeyer homelessness begins. Stocked with “random stuff” game (she calls out 3:30 a.m.: It is 31 degrees out. For •Junior Stephen Hopper Jake Smithmier my mammoth refrigerator box, a an object – for example, an earring – the life of me, I cannot find the pair Catherine Strayhall 0-degree sleeping bag, and enough and the first group to put that object of flannel socks I KNOW are some- Luke Wheeler winter gear to summit Everest, I’ve in her hand wins a point). Shout out where at the bottom of my sleeping “To be nicer to people.” staked out a spot on the farthest end to Group 2. bag. I’ve had the flashlight app •Sophomore Alyssa Stedman - of the bleachers. My “neighbors” for 10:30 p.m.: The Blind Side is show- on my iPhone for over a month…I Photographers Brooke Bradshaw the evening are junior David White, ing in the gym, but I’ve decided to knew it would come in useful some- “To hug Eli Jurden once “To go to prom with my Leah Kouri senior Mabry Keel, and fellow fully embrace homelessness and time. The socks have been recov- a day.” sister.” Larissa Lamas senior and Miegian staff member spend the rest of my night outside. ered. Back to bed. •Senior Austin Porter •Sophomore Macky Merrill Abby Markus Karl Netemeyer. Nearby a group of It seems the hour-plus spent inside 6:45 a.m.: Believe it or not, I actu- “To get straight A’s.” - “To score 30 points in my next game.” Mitchell McCrave junior boys arrives with arms full puts me in store for quite a shock as ally slept soundly from 3:30 to 6:30. •Junior Sydney Vaughn •Freshman Reggie Boghs of pieces of cardboard…but no box. I return outside. According to my Although I did have an awful dream Jordan Tucker Okay? phone, it is 40 degrees; it might as that I was chasing a Snuggie down 7:30 p.m.: Hold the phone. That pile well be -40. an endless hallway. Adviser - Mrs. Phyllis Hartwig of cardboard has suddenly, some- 11:30 p.m.: After an hour of playing 7:00 a.m.: And that’s a wrap on One how become a 15 x 15 foot palace of football solely to keep feeling in my Homeless Night. Overall, an incred- The Miegian is published monthly warmth built to snugly fit four guys. extremities, we are corralled into ible experience; I’ll always think Classic Christmas Children’s Charities by the newspaper staff of Bishop They are now the envy of the camp. our respective sleeping areas for twice before I crawl into my bed By: LukeWheeler •Learn more at christianity.about. projectnightnight.org Miege High School. It is a student- 8:30 p.m.: The Outreach van deliv- the night. Senior Brian Owara has and remember how truly blessed I com/holidaytips 4. Nothing But Nets- Bed nets work produced newspaper. The editorial ers our meals: our choice of mac n’ joined our party. am. Special thanks to Katie Carlsen, 2. First Book board decides the content of each staff writer - From the mission by creating a protective barrier against cheese, chili, and soup. It’s incred- 12:00 a.m.: Lights out. The marsh- Shamirah Johnson, Mrs. Perinni, statement,”To date, First Book has deadly-malaria carrying mosquitoes issue. Opinions expressed are the ibly humbling to think that this is mallows I ate are being seriously re- and all the folks at CMT who helped Most Americans love distributed more than 85 million books that bite at night. A family of four can views of the writer and are signed. likely all the food most homeless gretted by this guy right now. Feels organize it. To my fellow Miegians spending time with their family over and educational resources to programs sleep under an insecticide-treated The Miegian welcomes material (letters, guest columns, receive on a given day. I’m already like someone stuffed my mouth with who participated: kudos. To those the Christmas holidays, decorating and schools serving children from bed net, safe from malaria, for three feedback) from faculty, adminis- counting my blessings. cotton. I. Need. Water. who didn’t, I highly recommend the tree, visiting extended family, low-income families throughout the years. The benefits of bed nets extend 9:00 p.m.:Thankfully, we can now 1:00 a.m.: I’m ready to attempt a doing so at some point during your trators, students, parents and com- watching Christmas movie classics, United States and Canada. First Book even further than protecting those munity members. This material spend some time in the cozy con- fitful sleep, but Karl insists that we four years. and eating hardy meals. During the is transforming the lives of children sleeping underneath them. The will be reviewed by the editorial holidays, we often become caught in need and elevating the quality insecticide woven into each net makes board and published based on the up in our own holiday cheer. We of education by making new, high- entire communities safer – killing and publication’s letters policy criteria. National Catholic Youth Conference Renews Miegians’ Faith tend to forget that there are many quality books available on an ongoing repelling mosquitoes so that they can’t Material can be dropped people in the world who don’t have basis.” go on to bite others who may not be off in the journalism room (144), By: EmoryLacy Ministries: 2 comedians, Gene and Brad. They Saturday morning we stayed awake the resources to provide a Christmas •Learn more at www.firstbook.org protected by a net. or mailed to the opinions editor played out a skit to demonstrate the “Journey of through the opening ceremony, barely. After two care of Bishop Miege High School. dinner or presents under the tree for 3. Project Night Night- Project Night •Learn more at www.nothingbutnets. staff writer Life.” It opened my eyes about how in every little nights of limited sleep, everyone knew Saturday All letters and columns must be way possible, God is there, and is working in my would be a hard day. Steve Angrisano presented their children. Night donates more than 25,000 net signed. The staff reserves the right Even with cold winds and uneven bricks, life. during the first session of the day. With music like It is actually easier than it Night Night Packages each year, 5. Angel Tree- According to their to edit letters for length, language NCYC was full of our Lord’s presence. In the open- Friday night at the daily closing ceremony, “Waves of Mercy” he kept everyone’s attention the might seem to help provide a happy free of charge, to homeless children mission statement, “Angel Tree or potential libel, and to refuse any ing ceremony, Emcee VaLamire Jensen told us we the whole of us, 23,000, sang “Let It Be.” The power whole 75 minutes allotted for his presentation. The holiday season for the less fortunate. who need childhood essentials to Christmas works by connecting articles or advertising submitted. were part of a “love tribe.” Our mission was to carry of thousands of kids singing a song I grew up music and interaction reminded me that praising Following is a list of some charities feel secure, cozy, ready to learn, and parents in prison with their children All opinion pieces submit- ted should contain an address and out God’s word. That put us in the right mindset as with ran through my body and jolted me with just God isn’t all about lectures and going to Mass.The that can help you change lives this significant. Each Night Night Package through the delivery of Christmas Christmas season. contains a new security blanket, an gifts. Every Christmas, thousands a phone number where the writer the 31 attendees from Miege continued on to the enough energy to make it through the night. speaker jogged my memory of the songs I love to can be contacted, because the next two full days at NCYC in Indianapolis, Indi- Joe Castillo, a sand artist, performed. He sing that also give thanks to God. 1. Operation Christmas Child- age-appropriate children’s book, and of churches like yours help brighten staff will confirm all letters. ana. depicted Jesus in work on a backlight podium, live. Saturday night was the final Mass. After “Operation Christmas Child invites a stuffed animal -- all nestled inside of the lives of countless children by After Friday morning’s opening ceremony The way he swiftly moved his hands to change each a weekend of inspiring presentations by multiple you to pack a shoe box with small a new canvas tote bag. By providing purchasing, wrapping and delivering was Jason and Crystalina Evert, whose inspiring picture into a new one amazed everyone. You could speakers, I was mentally ready for Mass. The two- toys, school supplies, other gifts, and objects of reliable comfort, Project gifts on behalf of their incarcerated Bishop Miege High School talk was about the value of “waiting until you’re hear a pin drop is was so silent. hour-long celebration went by in the blink of an a personal note to introduce a hurting Night Night attempts to reduce parent—not only delivering a message 5041 Reinhardt Drive married.”The Miege girls who could find a seat de- After the ceremony, we went back to the eye. With 23,000 teenagers it barely felt like a Mass, child to God’s love. The small gifts of trauma and advances the emotional of love from parent to child, but also Shawnee Mission, KS clared it the best part of the day when we discussed hotel. Everyone said something about the sand art- although the feeling in my chest after reassured me love and messages of hope through and cognitive well-being of the the true meaning of Christmas—the 66205-1599 in group that night. ist or singing “Let It Be.” It was definitely a moving it certainly was the celebration of Jesus Himself. Jesus Christ are delivered to needy children. good news of Jesus Christ.” I went to a presentation put on by the Apex night, not only for me, but for thousands of others. children overseas.” •Learn more at www. •Learn more at www.angeltree.org Page 10 www. bishopmiege.com December 9, 2011 December 9, 2011 www.bishopmiege.com Page 11 Bowling Prepares for ‘Interesting’ Season By: JacksonGriffin this year I’m expecting new kids to fill their spots.” 25 boys and 25 girls tried out. A higher than usual Bowler Shannon Gentry added, “We have number of girls came out for the sport. The coach- staff writer a lot of new people so they should bring a lot of ing staff plans to keep 13 boys and 13 girls this S P O R T S talent to the team.” year. As winter sports begin, the bowling pro- However, the team won’t be without ex- Bowling will begin competing after Christ- gram will start its seventh season at Miege. Re- perience. Coming back to the squad are veteran mas break. turning to lead the team is Mr. Matt Eshelbrenner. bowlers senior Hunter Thomas, junior Shannon Last year the team was successful with two Coaching alongside him is Mr. Dan Gemmill. Gentry and sophomore Alex Lutz. “They are all State qualifiers and a fourth place finish by alum Basketball Determined to Beat Odds The team is looking forward to bringing strong bowlers, and I expect them to be leaders this Anthony Mitchell. This year Coach Eshelbrenner back experienced bowlers, but there will also be year,” said Coach Eshelbrenner. says the team may be in for a few surprises. “It will By: NiyahMiller Miege boys scored. Spirit was high, team. Richard and Montell both had room for many younger players to step up. Coach Bowling kicked off its season with try- be and interesting year, I’m not really sure what to and it was a great experience to be a their share of rebounds, but one little Esh says, “We had quite a few seniors last year, so outs this week. According to Eshelbrenner, about expect.” staff writer part of. After Montell Cozart, junior guy also shone in that area. McKinley shooting guard, scored two back- Johnson, sophomore guard, had two to-back 3-pointers, the crowd really back-to-back steals on a fast break. Last Saturday, Dec. 3, the went wild. “I’m quick so I utilize my varsity boys’ basketball team started “I was feelin’ it that night,” speed to get back and work hard on Rough Start Young Wrestling Team off strong despite the fact that as the said Montell. defense. I may be the smallest but Word of Life players walked in, they Not only was Word of Life by no means am I ever scared,” said For Girls’ were all at least 6’2. a big team, but they had some long McKinley. Searches for Success “I was scared at first because nails. Towards the end of the first half, “We work hard and everyone they were Montell is unselfish with the ball. We try to Basketball By: MasonHans winter. Eventually Chris developed all so tall, “I was scared at first because was make that extra pass, and when one a passion for wrestling. He left the but once scratched of us scores, we’re all excited for each staff writer football team after his junior year to the game they were all so tall, but under other. We aren’t that big this year, By: LukeWheeler dedicate his time to wrestling. started, I his eye. but we do have speed. We’re going Miege’s wrestling began Brother of Miege alum Pat was fine. once the game started, I was The refs to have to work with what we have. staff writer its season Nov. 30 in a dual against Cervantes, Coach Pete Cervantes They just fine.” - Stephen Hopper stopped We can only get better as the season Olathe East, but lost 44-24. went to Central High School, where all had this the game progresses so I’m excited as to what Girls’ basketball faces The team can be described he was on the wrestling team. In type of because this year’s season will bring,” said fierce competition in the EKL as inexperienced with only one re- 1998 Pete started coaching, trying Montell’s scratch so was deep that Montell. this year as they try to capture turning senior letterwinner, Joe to make Pat the best he could be. attitude, as they walked in our gym, th like they were gonna kick our butts. it bled. He had to wear a band-aid Miege took their victory their 17 State championship in McSorley. This year’s Plus, they had swag,” said junior the rest of the game. Two minutes against Word of Life with the final program history under Coach younger letterwinners shooting guard, Stephen Hopper. later, Richard Smith, senior foward, score 61-46. Terry English. Led by returning are juniors Anthony The atmosphere at the game also got scratched under his chin, The win bolstered the teams’ contributors Sydney Vaughan, Kotzias, Stephen Pala- reflected the squads’ valiant spirit. but he pulled through and kept his confidence, something they will Alexis Hughes and Niyah Miller, cio, Harry Tournquist, Miege’s boys were a lot of fun to intensity. take in to their next game against the Lady Stags will have a fairly and sophomore Ver- watch. They were all enthusiastic and Miege was undersized the Gardner-Edgerton Trailblazers. balanced offense and a very non White. aggressive defense. Although encouraging towards each other. The compared to Word of Life but Wyatt Voorhes looks for a pass against Varsity boys play at home tonight at rebounded as if they were the bigger 8:15 p.m. About his pre-game the team is young, its crowd was roaring with cheers as the Word of Life HS. Photo by Jordan Tucker motivational tactics, Coach coaching staff is expe- English said that he keeps it rienced. Coach Dave simple. “We try to take it one Eller started coaching game at a time, but we dig Miege wrestling in Stag Swimmers take to the Starting Blocks deep sometimes when we need 1977, 34 years ago. He to.” Coach has been at Miege has developed a rigor- By: BenHire impact. One of these is sophomore Jack Wirtz, who work will definitely pay off in the end.” since the beginning of the girls’ ous off-season routine. earned the highest ranking at State for Miege last Mr. Mueller has been coaching for 17 years. basketball program 36 years ago “We went to staff writer year, taking sixth place in the 50 meter freestyle and He said that he thinks Jack Wirtz and Ben Rucker, so he said most of the knowledge Junior Alexis Hughes shoots for three two camps this year, eighth place on 100 meter freestyle. who finished tenth at State on 100 meter freestyle, he has gained about coaching has against Word of Life last Saturday. and I was impressed Junior Anthony Kotzias attempts to pin his op- Despite losing three seniors last year that Coach Mueller is certainly not taking it easy will be their strongest competitors, especially in the been from coaches in the boys’ Photo by Jordan Tucker with the turn out. Se- ponent at Bishop Miege. Photo by Mitchell McCrave included Kevin Terrill, A.J. Mohler and Sean Martin, on the swimmers, even this early in the season. They 200 and 400 meter relay. basketball program and even the nior Chris’ Martin has the boys’ swim and dive team still has hopes that have been attending two-a-days for about a month. Their first meet was Dec. 1 at Blue Valley football coaching staff. most of their starters from last year. pleasantly surprised me. He’s been When Pat came to Miege in 2006 they can win a State championship. Junior Nathaniel Brandl said, “The two-a- North. They began the season with a rough start Coach says that some of the After starting 0-2, the girls hope to working hard this year,” Eller said. Pete asked Eller for a coaching job. They have many returning swimmers who days are really hard, but we are making progress taking last place; they swam again this past Wednes- stiffest competition in the EKL will be bounce back to a strong season with Martin joined the wrestling Since then Pat has graduated, but head coach Dennis Mueller thinks will make a big every day. If we continue at this pace, all of our hard day. Blue Valley North, who returns with the start of EKL play. team sophomore year in an effort to Pete has stayed. stay in shape for football over the Page 12 www. bishopmiege.com December 9, 2011 December 9, 2011 www.bishopmiege.com Page 13 The Mile High Messiah Or Mistake? Looking Back on Four Years carried the day. His Thursday night and simple. He was a winner at By: Sam Jezak By: Karl Netemeyer game against the Jets was less than Florida, and is a winner in Denver. memorable, most likely because It may not always be pretty, but if staff writer staff writer the game plan included much more Tebow’s in a game, his team usu- of Stags’ Gridiron Excellence
Before I start, let me establish passing than usual. The first thing that comes up ally wins. Tebow’s not an impressive something. I do not dislike Tim Thanksgiving weekend, the when you search Tim Tebow on Ya- quarterback, and his stats show that. hoo is a picture of a smiling second- By: KarlNetemeyer 32-13 record the Stags amassed since honey. The two sophomore starters, Miege football history, and 2010 was Tebow the person. Yes, he is over- Broncos pulled out an overtime win He is, however, a great motivator, a freshman year, or even their 2009 Novak and Shondell, were both side- the year Miege jumped from 4A to exposed. He was fine with the Bible on the road against the San Diego year quarterback along with his stats great leader, and one that guys want for the 2011 season. If you look at the staff writer State Championship run. The seniors lined for most of the season with ACL 5A. Many juniors had their first start verses on the eye black, but he Chargers. Once again, the defense to go out there and give their all for, are defined, in my eyes, as journey- and MCL injuries. The Stags seemed in a Miege uniform in 2010. The team crossed the line with the Super Bowl carried the day while Tebow looked stats, it’s easy to see why analysts talk something that can’t be said about about his being a lousy quarterback. As Blue Valley setup their men. to recover and went on to win the also welcomed transfers Tre Par- commercial and underwear ads, all mostly inept, with just a few flashes Kyle Orton. The NFL is notorious for victory formation against the Stags The seniors had their start on 2009 Class 4A State Championship. malee, Richard Smith and Quanzee before making an NFL start. of mediocrity. His rushing game was On Nov. 26, Tebow’s stat line read as running winners like Vince Young follows: 709 passing yards, 88.6 pass- on Nov. 11, the Bishop Miege players, a warm August day in 2008. Seniors The sophomores played a larger part Johnson, as well as first year players All sources say he is a mostly taken away, and his passing and Kurt Warner out of starting jobs parents and fans stood in confusion. Adam Novak, Nick Shondell, Thomas off the field than on it, with many Jose Valdez and Josh Loya. The team great person who lives what he game was limited to mainly check- ing yards per game, because their stats don’t make view- 7 passing touch- It hadn’t sunk in yet, but the 2011 Shamet, Skyler Farr, Rudy Estrada of the players playing scout team in had a surprisingly good year before preaches. It is also evident that he is down throws. While his quarterback ers’ eyes drop. In their place, play- football season was over. Senior fans and Maddox Lawrence put on pads practice. “The best part about play- losing to Blue Valley early in the play- an inspirational leader for his team. rating was respectable, this can downs, and a ers with good stats but poor records QB rating of began to realize that this was their and practiced alongside 20 something ing scout was it prepared us against offs. Finally, he is said to have one of the be attributed to the conservative start, players like Jay Cutler and last football game These three years best work ethics in the game. play calling and his fear of making 78.4. Those Mike Vick. Vince Young, who most stats make as students inside of helped build up the 2011 It’s too bad the NFL isn’t a mistakes. The following week Tebow consider a draft bust, went 32-17 as Dixon Doll Stadium. Bishop Miege football popularity contest. It also doesn’t showed signs of improvement. He an NFL starter before being ousted Players realized team. This team was spe- hand the Lomabardi trophy to the played well the entire second half from Tennessee. He now backs up that all of their hard cial; they played as a fam- nicest, hardest working, overachiever instead of just the final drive. I for Vick, who is 3-6 this season as a work throughout the ily. Led by the seniors and in the game. am still not convinced that he starter. The same fate is a prob- weeks prior to the EKL offensive player of the Tim Tebow is not an NFL can evolve into an elite ability for Tebow. game had not been year, Montell Cozart, the quarterback. He is a glorified running quarterback. With the Tebow will never be enough. The Stags Stags went 7-2 in regular back running a college system. First defense playing considered a good NFL walked off the field season play. The team not off, in Tebow’s seven games as a like one of the quarterback until he with the burning im- only rolled over teams that starter he has completed on average league’s best, has the stats of a good age of the red lights weren’t as good, but they 45.5% of his passes. That is the worst he doesn’t NFL quarterback, which on the scoreboard: went nose to nose against percentage for a starting quarterback have to is wrong. I believe Tim 24-21. The following bigger, more talented in the league. be good. Just Tebow is capable of win- morning, The Kansas teams, and most of the time It wouldn’t matter if this was average will ning many more games City Star reported won. The team had high some meaningless stat, but this is still produce but may not be given the score. But the hopes of another State title. about play calling and the ability to wins. the chance to because of article didn’t tell In the end, they came up fool the defense. The defenses of The Broncos’ his stats. According to how the Tigers had inches short from going to the NFL are able to adjust very success should not be Sports Illustrated, the shut down Miege’s the State semifinals. quickly to different schemes. It contributed to Tebow. Broncos are consider- offense during the There are a lot of is but a matter of time until the Denver’s defense is one ing drafting a quar- first half. It didn’t tell banners in the gym, a lot read option system that Tebow of the NFL’s best this year. terback following this how the Stags came that people can look past. runs is stopped emphatically. The offensive linemen have season, even though back and battled The Stags have raised The option is not used in the NFL played like All-Pros all year. His Tebow was drafted in the fiercely in the fourth many new banners since because the defenses are too fast and running backs have handled the load first round in 2010. I predict quarter, only to be my time at Miege. Win- the coordinators are too smart. very well and should be receiving that Tebow will have success inches short of vic- ning is a tradition for the Much has been made of the much more credit than they have. as a starter for one more year before tory. The Stags’ 2011 season would other freshmen for the first time. By great competition. We were going Stags. I always wonder if I’m going to Broncos’ 6-1 record since Tebow Teams that Tebow has found success moving into a backup role because of, always be defined by that one loss. the middle of the season Shamet, to be ready for the next two years remember all of those banners when has started. But if you look closer at against make up the bottom half of you guessed it, his stats. Matt Cassel look like a Pro Bowler. That’s the thing about sports; Shondell and Novak were practicing to play on a varsity level,” said Tim I’m old. I know there is one thing the games, it is not as impressive. the league, with the exception of the Tim Tebow should remain the they are defined by wins and losses, and suiting up with the varsity team. Mahoney, who was named the 2009 that I’m always going to remember The first game against the Dolphins Jets. Once he starts playing quality So the question is why is this guy the starting quarterback for the Denver starting quarterback of the Denver not the battle that took place before Novak remembers his first start near scout team player of the year. about sports in high school, though. resulted in a win, but Tebow and opponents, his real NFL evaluation Broncos for years to come. He may the end. To define the 2011 Stags with the end of the season and his first The jump a player takes from I’m going to remember how much crew did absolutely nothing until the will start. Broncos? Why has he been dubbed not ever have the stats to rival Peyton the Mile High Messiah? The answer one loss is an injustice. The team de- touchdown against Baldwin in the underclassman to upperclassman is fun the football games were on Friday last two drives. The second game, he The verdict is Tebow is not Manning or Tom Brady, but there is a serves more. The seniors that led the playoffs. There was no doubt there always a difficult one. It was especial- nights. I’m going to remember cheer- was shut down by the Lions’ defense an NFL quarterback. He has been is simple and comes in the important good possibility he will be able to win stat that Yahoo fails to show, record. team deserve more credit than their would be great things for the fresh- ly difficult for the junior class in 2010. ing on my friends and classmates. I and lost 45-10. bailed out by his defense and his just as much. He may never go down record shows. In my opinion, those men at the time. Coming off a State championship know the senior class wanted a State The next game was arguably offensive line. He has played poor As of Dec. 4, Tebow is 6-1 as a starter as John Elway, but with a few rings, this season, and is on pace to lead his seniors’ football careers cannot be de- The following season, Farr, year, expectations were high for the championship, but I think I speak for his best game, leading his team to teams and not played very well in the he will be just as loved in Mile High fined inside the standard definition of Estrada and Lawrence joined the Stags. Those expectations were com- the entire class when I say, we got the victory and gaining 242 total yards. majority of his games. Great college 7 -5 Broncos to an AFC West Champi- Stadium. onship. sports. I won’t remember the seniors others on the varsity squad. The team plicated by the fact that the team had next best thing. After that Tebow was just average quarterback, below average pro for their remarkable 9-2 record, the also welcomed a transfer, Tim Ma- lost one of the most athletic classes in against the Chiefs, but his defense quarterback. Tim Tebow is a winner, plain www.bishopmiege.com Page 14 www.bishopmiege.com December 9, 2011 December 9, 2011 Page 15