CUSD 304 Gets $900K Check United’S EAV Jumps P

DELIVER TO BOXHOLDER PRSRT. STD. U.S. POSTAGE PAID ALEXIS, IL 61412 STORM PERMIT NO. 9

THE United High School Newspaper Volume 5, Issue 5 TRACKER IN THIS ISSUE: CUSD 304 gets $900K check United’s EAV jumps p. 2 But it was more than particular payment to the school said Whitsitt. “The state owes coming in on time, usually distrcit was just shy of three that money back by June 30, so within a week or so after the Stress hits all ages p. 3 three months late and months being late. I don’t think there will be much listed voucher date. However, at there’s no guarantee The district was scheduled to chance of our payments getting press time the state owed United A S.T.O.R.M. alert p. 4 future state payments receive another transportation back on track anytime soon.” nearly $100.000 in general state payment for the same amount With the backlog of unpaid aid on a voucher approved Janu- will be on time on December 29. However, the bills sitting on the comptroller’s ary 12. Elementary Menus p. 5 By Tony Kozelichki, Publisher website confirms the comptrol- desk, there is concern the state Of the funds received De- At the December 22 meeting ler’s office has yet to release won’t be able to pay its share cember 23, more than $465,000 HS calendar & menu p. 6 of the United Board of Educa- those funds. of the school district’s funding was in reorganization incentives tion, Superintendent Jeff Whitsitt “Right now we are about by the June 30 end of the 08-09 stemming from the 2007 annexa- Various winter activities informed board members of the $220,000 behind - mostly in fiscal year. tion of the Yorkwood district. transportation,” said Whitsitt in “Obviously, we will have a United is owed another year of keep students busy p. 7 fast approaching $1 million in money owed the district by the reference to the amount of back- problem with the budget that reorganization incentive funding, State of Illinois. logged funds the district is owed. we amended. The extent of but there are concerns the state New area co-ops will have Christmas, then, came early Other categories in which the the problem won’t be known will not be able to come through, impact on UHS sked p. 8 as the very next day nearly district is owed money include until we know how much we leaving District 304 with a nearly $900,000 was deposited in the special education, the free lunch are shorted this fiscal year,” said half-million dollar hole to fill. school’s accounts, albeit some 90 program and early childhood Whitsitt. While it’s no consolation, days late in some fund balances. education. “Again, we had some fund bal- United is not alone. It’s likely STORM ALERTS The State of Illinois’ inability And, there are no indications ances available, but they won’t all school districts receiving state to pay service providers on time future payments for the second last forever. If we are shorted funding are getting delayed pay- Federal judge decides has left institutions such as our half of the fiscal year will come enough, we will have to find ments, just like hospitals, nursing own school district wondering if in on time. some short term cash flow op- homes, doctors, pharmacists and Moment of Silence issue “In fact, the state just borrowed tions, but I’m hopeful not to get all other organizations, business- U.S. District Judge Robert Get- the check is truly in the mail. $1.4 billion in order to get all to that point this year.” es and individuals who rely on tleman ruled January 22 that a That, along with the nation- the payments out to those they General state aid payments state tax receipts for funding. state law requiring a moment of wide recession, leaves school owed at the end of December,” to the school district have been Whitsitt concluded, “We are no silence in public schools across districts throughout the state different than anyone else or any Illinois is unconstitutional, say- scrambling to pay their own bills other business. The effect on the ing it crosses the line separating on time. economy has an impact on all of church and state. “Our local tax dollars have Thailand gets cold, too our decisions and our plans.” The ruling came in a lawsuit been coming on time and we By Bast Chaikhunsombat To contact your elected state designed to bar schools from had nearly a half year’s worth of Since December 31 passed, the officials to discuss this issue, enforcing the Illinois Silent surplus fund balance to start the year 2009 has started. please address your comments to Reflection and Student Prayer fiscal year. We are just o It’s good to have a resolution Act. It was filed by talk show ver halfway through the fiscal or something you want to do Rep. Richard Myers host Rob Sherman, an outspoken year and so far can maintain our in the near future. Here in the 331 N. Lafayette St. atheist, and his daughter, Dawn, payments,” said Whitsitt. “I’ve U.S., it’s most important to start Macomb, IL 61455 a high school student. also met with the maintenance the year by welcoming your new (309) 836-2707 As passed by the Illinois Gen- personnel to brainstorm some President. (309) 836-2231 FAX eral Assembly, the law allows ways of saving in the current Other countries have kept a students to reflect on the day’s budget year.” close watch on the American activities rather than pray if that The Illinois State Board of people during the election cycle Sen. John Sullivan is their choice and defenders Education’s website (www.isbe. and many are exited over Presi- 926 Broadway have said it therefore doesn’t net) allows individuals to ac- dent Obama’s inauguration. Suite 6 force religion on anyone. cess information regarding the in this area a couple of weeks In the last year, some people Quincy, IL 62301 But Gettleman backed critics amount of state funding each back, but for us the temperature probably had both good and bad (217) 222-2295 such as the American Civil Lib- school district is scheduled to is normally 68-75* throughout experiences, and some people (217) 222-2944 FAX erties Union, who say the law is receive in a given fiscal year. the winter. might have done something a thinly disguised effort to bring It also details disbursement before the New Year, like Christ- religion into the schools. dates in each of the 24 categories mas, getting gifts, eating food, It remains unclear if Gettle- the United district qualifies for and sightseeing. A little heat during the cold months man’s decision will end the state funding. For me, I went to an under- dispute or merely signal a fresh To access the information, ground concert in Peoria with On Friday, January 30, United battle in a federal appeals court. click on the FRIS Inquiry tab my host “brothers.” It was good. High School librarian Mary United High School discontin- at the top. Then just search for After the concert, we visited a Murray conducted her annual hot ued practice of offering the mo- United. The school district is friend’s house and played a trivia sauce sampling day. ment of silence at the beginning listed about 3/4 of the way down board game. She began the project four of this school year. the list. years ago, challenging brave By accessing information The next weekend at a church in Galesburg, I met an exchange and unsuspecting students to IHSA bans game prayer provided for each of the 24 test their culinary instincts while categories, one can click on the student who was from Thailand, The Illinois High School As- tasting a variety of hot and spicy “details” tab and see exactly how as well. sociation Board of Directors at sauces and foods. much money the school district We talked about the problems its January 12 meeting approved Each year dozens of students has received, when the funds since arriving in the U.S., specifi- a recommendation to include a accept the challenge, but many were approved, and the date the cally the language barriers, home policy in the IHSA Handbook refuse to return for a second try a comptroller’s office released sickness and school. and Terms & Conditions for year later. those funds. Thai news is generally better every sport/activity that prohibits With the recent opening of For example, under “Transpor- and more positive;, however, I est offerings in under a minute. prayer over the public address Buffalo Wild Wings in Gales- tation, regular and vocational” did get some bad news recently. Mettler was awarded by having system at IHSA state series burg, anyone can now take a you will find the state made Thailand had a cold spell his picture placed on the restau- events. similar challenge. a payment of $181,380.45 on recently, with temperatures rant’s wall, and walked (shakily) The ruling does not affect regu- Pictured right is United junior December 22. However, the dropping down to as low as away with a T-shirt and, report- lar season contests. 50*. I know that sounds warm, James Mettler who consumed a edly, true appreciation for what it voucher date for those funds half dozen of Wild Wings’ spici- was September 24, meaning that especially given the record cold means to be “hot.” STORM TRACKER Agendas light at December & January board meetings 1905 100th Street Due to school cancellations high as the newly projected total Also discussed was ongoing tee meeting was held between Monmouth, IL 61462 309-734-9411 and bad weather, the December was in the 1991-1992 school talks with the Monmouth-Ros- the two districts in January, but meeting of the United Board of year, when the combined EAVs eville district about an expir- no decision regarding future con- The Storm Tracker is published Education was postponed until of the former Alexis, Warren and ing contract with United which tracts between the two districts monthly by the journalism students of Monday, December 22. Yorkwood districts was $117 provides M-R with 11 buses. has been decided. United High School, is printed through the facilities of The Register-Mail, and Most of the discussion at million. A joint transportation commit- is distributed to residents of CUSD the meeting revolved around a By Bethany Fredrickson #304. The material published does not budget hearing and ongoing talks January’s school board meeting necessarily reflect the viewpoint of the regarding the district’s leasing of was held on the eighth. administration of United School District #304, nor the policy of The Register- a bus fleet to the Monmouth-Ros- The main topic foccused on Mail. eville district. the Alwood-Cambridge and At the budget hearing, mem- ROWVA-Galva athletic co-ops While every attempt is made to bers were informed that the (see page 8). determine the validity of advertising contained herein, the advertising in the district’s Equalized Assessed Also discussed was the antici- Storm Tracker is not to be construed as Valuation (EAV) has risen from pated withdrawal of the Prairi- endorsement of a specific product or $103 million to $113 million eland Conference from the West service. The Storm Tracker assumes no over the past year. With the dis- Prairie Trail football conference responsibility of liability resulting from the content of paid advertisements. trict asking for the same tax levy following the 2009 season. rates as last year, the increase in Board membes discussed the The Storm Tracker does not knowingly EAV could result in the district advantages to changing confer- accept advertisements that discriminate getting $650,000 more in local ences along with the lack of sta- on the basis of sex, race, creed, religion, color, handicapped status, veteran or tax revenue in the coming year. bility the LTC currently presents. sexual orientation, nor does it knowingly Of that increase, approximately A changing of the guard will soon take place as the April elec- The meeting ended with dis- print ads that violate any local, state, or $400,000 will go to the Educa- tion looms. With board member Tim VanFleet having already cussing the transportation issues federal laws. tion Fund, with the remaining resigned due to scheduling conflicts with his job, and with board with the Monmouth-Roseville money being split among the Op- school district, a carryover from Parties interested in advertising in members Moses Anderson (top row, middle) and Terry Johnson the Storm Tracker should contact Mr. erations & Maintenance, Trans- (bottom row, right) stepping down, the United Board of Educa- the January meeting that remains Kozelichki at the address and/or phone portation, Working Cash, IMRF, tion will look vastly different in a couple of months. Current unresolved heading in to the end number listed above. Social Security, and Tort funds. board members Marshall Schrader (top row, left) and Rick El- of the month. For comparison’s sake, Super- These topics will be continued Letters to the editor must be mailed to liott (top row, right) are seeking re-election while Lisa Gavin and the address above and cannot be more intendent Jeff Whitsitt stated the Susie Frieden (bottom row, left and middle, respectively) have and updated at the next meeting than 350 words. The author’s name last time the local EAV was as two more years on their current terms. on February 12. 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 First “U made a difference” award winners announced publication of all letters. STORM TRACKER Stasha Giese, Editor-in-Chief Vic Fredrickson, Business Mgr. Reporters Katie Allaman, Bast Chaikhun sombat, Bethany Fredrickson, Julie Gunter, Elizabeth Johnson, Anton Kozelichki, Jillian Rundle, Katy Schrader Mr. Tony Kozelichki, Advisor “Some material courtesy of American Society of Newspaper Editors/MCT Campus High School Newspaper Service.” At its December meeting, the Board of Education President Rick Elliott presented the first-ever “U made a difference awards” to United CUSD #304 Sheila Pressley (pictured left) and Trent McKeown (pictured right) and his wife Jenny for their efforts in promoting and contributing to the betterment of the United School District. contact numbers Superintendent’s Office 482-3344 rmg Risk Management Group, Inc. FAX 482-3236 Bill Ramsey 1-800-553-7475 Helping agricultural producers manage price risk United High School 734-9411 Commodity futures, options, and cash FAX 734-6090

United Junior High 734-8511 FAX 734-6094

United Elementary North 482-3332 FAX 482-3341

United Elementary West 734-8513 734-8515 COUNTRYSIDE BIBLE CHURCH Thanks United students for making our 5th quarter Friday’s a huge success!

Youth Group @ Emanuel Baptist Sundays @ 7:00 p.m. Holiday angst knows no age boundaries By Stasha Giese, Editor-in-Chief means that I cannot spend time and it is Christmas Eve and I for- stay there. I have simply set out percent of women between the Everyone has been there, you with both my mother and father got to buy my aunt her cashmere with a goal to answer my prior ages of 35 to 54 and 40% of men know. You’re standing behind at the same time. sweater. question: Is the stress of the said levels of stress increased the indecisive woman as she So then my balancing act Phew! Christmas is over, and holiday season worth the joy that during holidays. Forty-three rants while inching closer to the begins. This day is spent with now there is only one more event it brings? My answer is “yes”, percent of women within the end of a very “crucial” purchase. Mom, that day with Dad, and that may just cause me to bite my because some things are worth age group of 18 to 35 admitted Her husband tries to assure her hopefully I remembered to nails to the quick, very quickly. a little (a lot) of self-sacrifice. to the same results, as did 37% that the sweater is the “perfect” schedule time with friends, but Phone calls ring in inviting Christmas would be one of them. percent of the male gender. CNN gift for her great aunt in law, most likely I have forgotten. me to ring in the new year. Once Every student interviewed at researched groups such as split who will settle for nothing less Now I feel guilty. again I am only one person. So I United confessed their stress families, widows, and families than cashmere. The husband fi- Whenever someone says “Re- must carefully chose one event, level was in some form higher. with varying levels of income. nally succeeds, after what seems member, you only have so many preferably on that will not upset Much like myself, reasons given Sadly enough, 28% was the low- to be hours of coaxing, and the hands to give,” believe them. I as many people when I don’t were were usually related to not est statistical number, reflecting purchase is finally made. usually don’t and end up trying show for the rest. having enough money to buy responses only from retirees. Fortunately, it is your turn; too to “grow” an extra ten arms. At last “the ball” drops my presents, and satisfying those I believe holiday memories bad your lane just closed, but My problem, I can’t say no. stress onto the ice cold Janu- they cared about. should not be grouped along check-out lane 25 is available. The first word I ever spoke and I ary ground. Currently I have no If we students are already al- with stress. It just takes so much Oops, did I forget to mention cannot seem to say it. As a result “problems” to worry about for lowing joy to bring stress to our away from the substance of this the man in front of lane 25 just I am running from destination A approximately 11 months. lives, imagine what we may be wonderful time of year. dropped and broke a can of to location B-Z all in what seems Some of you may be think- like at age 35. As you begin your plans for yams. Oh yes, and you will be to be the same day. ing. “Oh my goodness, how did CNN recently interviewed 2009, keep in mind, learn to en- “on board” right behind Mrs. My Did someone just say the “P” one create herself into a Scrooge various age groups, both men joy yourself. Besides, who wants Kids are aAngels and Should word? Oh, how I love to give at such a young age?” and by and women (all from different gray hair and worry churned Not be Punished for that Very presents. I love the anticipation no means should that thought economic standpoints). Fifty-two stomachs. Naughty Thing They Just Did. of the recipients as they finally Where does holiday stress tear back the paper and flash come from? When does it me those pearly whites (well, in Monmouth Armory becomes youth center even start? Maybe somewhere most cases). between cooking the Thanksgiv- Oh, but the stress beforehand is By Elizabeth Johnson The Stellar Kart and Light- in all ages and captivated the ing turkey and dodging flying ever so great, as in incalculable. On Monday, January 26, the switch concert was the official audience’s attention. purses at 4:00 a.m. on Black First you have to figure out what old Armory, now the youth opening for the youth center and Everyone asked said that they Friday. This may be something this person you are buying for center, welcomed Stellar Kart to it had an excellent turn out. enjoyed the concert and all on that is never to be found out, but actually likes . If you are not Monmouth for its grand opening. The Christian rock band drew the floor were rocking out to one can’t deny the avalanche of well acquainted with him/her, Area churches pulled together Stellar Kart. stress that seems to invade every then this is a little tricky. Then to raise enough money to buy the The leaders hope this concert home. finally you find out what he/she Armory and turn it into a safe, would help bring more teens to So here I am, 17, already enjoys and hope they do not clean center for the area youth. the youth center and get them stressed from this merry time of already have it. Right now, it is only being used comfortable with the message year. Which leads me to ask: Is Now, finally, all the shopping for church functions but the lead- they were sending out. the stress of the holiday season is done! Maybe, for some, this ers hope to eventually open it It looks like that plan will suc- worth the joy that it brings? takes all the stress away. That every Friday for a hang out spot ceed. Every year the “freaking out” is just great for them! Now I for teens. The Stellar Kart concert was starts just before Thanksgiving. I am worried because I just spent The center will open itself to a huge hit and it looks like the come from a split family, which more money on Mom than Dad, Friday night Fifth Quarter par- youth center will be getting a lot ties beginning February 20 from of attention in the future. 6:30-11:00 p.m., following a The former Armory is having Warren County Library to successful series of Friday night its basement renovated at this events following fall football time and it is expected to house display students’ art work games. wide screen televisions where Among the churches involved Stellar Kart bassist Brian Cal- youth video game tournaments A new “teen room” was dedi- semester, and each time new art are Maple City Baptist, Immanu- cara wows a large crowd at the will be held. cated Saturday, January 24, at the is brought in, an article will be el Baptist, First Christian Church former Monmouth Armory. Warren County Library. Along run in the Review Atlas to recog- in Monmouth, Countryside Bible with a naming contest for nize the artists. Church. the new room, local high This semester, six United High school students’ artwork will be School students will have work on display and for sale. displayed in the room – Trisha Mr. Sean Cavanaugh and the Swanson, Megan Vanskike, Sara Warren County Library have Martin, Teri Jones, Alex McKee, been working together on the and Emilee Holmberg. room, which will honor his late Feel free to stop in the new father. The room will be used “teen room” to view their art- as a meeting area for local teens work and enter the room-naming and a public place for budding contest. The winner will receive artists to display their work. a $30 gift card to Italian Village!! Art work will be rotated each

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Haircuts and Styling Visa/Mastercard Accepted 482-3549 or 371-6277 Seniors, need help SPORTSCARDS getting started on your The Seedhouse Buy-Sell-Trade high school scrapbook? 1930 140th St. Baseball-Football-Basketball-Hockey Cameron 61423 482-6600 Call Linda 482-6600 Steve Youngquist Sales Representative 563-9842 (ofﬁce) 221-9843 (cell) S.T.O.R.M. Alert Team plans schoolwide assembly

By Jillian Rundle The committee this year has This year, the United’s safe decided to change a few aspects. driving prgram, better known as TheSTORM Alert team has the S.T.O.R.M. Alert team has chosen to purchase two sets of received a grant o use to pro- impaired vision goggles for Mr. mote safe driving to high school Engebretson’s driver’s education students. classes. Last year’s grant money was They have decided to keep the used to purchase free giveaways poster contest open to all United for students, such as lanyards, students with entries to be col- bracelets, etc. Activities that were lected February 15. held include a poster contest with The winner will be announced Monmouth-Roseville students at a school assembly on February as well as an all school assembly 20, when Randy and Cathy Wad- that was held at the high school dell will be the main speakers. with the Illinois State Police con- The Waddells have traveled ducting sobriety tests and having throughout the state from their students demonstrate driving home in Pekin, sharing their habits while wearing vision im- tragic story of their high school paired glasses.. daughter Ashley’s death. United FFA busy in January with full calendar set for coming month

By Victoria Fredrickson the children were ecstatic when attend The Made for Excellence chance to meet new people from proficiency awards and state As the end of the past year was Santa walked in. Conference. other schools and also learn facts degree interviews on the 14th. approaching and the students After the New Year had rolled On a similar note, the Green- about FFA and other important Next up, are the Ag Olympics were getting anxious about the around and school was back in hand officer team was elected issues or activities. at West Central on the 17th, Christmas break coming up., the session, the FFA officer team during the Introductory Ag Class After Reeder returns home, she while on the 19th, the chapter United FFA Chapter teamed with headed to the Mercer County with President Ellen Reeder, and will have the opportunity to go will have its monthly meeting Sandy Bertelsen, the Agriculture Farm Bureau Meeting on the learned Parlimentary Procedure. with the other FFA members who where officers will inform mem- Education Coordinator, to host January 22. The Greenhand officer team con- choose to go to Snow Star in bers of upcoming activities. their Christmas Extravaganza. The officers were treated to a sists of Jennifer Elliott-president, Andalusia to ski or snow board Speaking of activites, Febru- The Christmas Extravaganza speech by Clayton Zwilling, the Hannah Hartzell-1st Vice Presi- on the 31st. This activity is an ary 23-27 will be National FFA kicked off on December 15 and Illinois State President speak dent, Ashlynn Winkler-2nd Vice entertaining time for the students Week with United holding many ended the next day with pre- about his responsibilities as a President, and James Brownlee who attend and is a great way to fun-filled activities and contests kindergarten and kindergarten state officer. as Secretary. wrap up the month of January. throughout the week. classes from both north and west Zwilling also informed his Reeder, United’s FFA president As February soon approaches, The month of February will end campuses coming to the high peers about the International and Section 4 President, will the FFA chapter has many with the Public Speaking CDE school for the afternoon.. Leadership Trip for the state attend the state officer meet- activities for their members to contest on the 25th. The young children visiting officers to China, which would ing at the Illinois FFA Center in participate in, the first being the were able to enjoy many fun be an amazing opportunity for Springfield on the 29th and 30th activities including Christmas them. with the other state officers. This bingo, writing letters to Santa, The next couple days, the 23rd event was postponed in Decem- making jelly beans and fudge, and 24th of January, a few other ber due to poor weather. while also learning about food FFA members headed to Chi- Some of the other members origins and their agricultural cago. Jennifer Elliott, Cori Sar- will be participating in the Quiz ties. Even with all those excit- gent, Westin Gunter and James Bowl CDE on the 29th. This ing events happening, most of Brownlee had the privilege to contest gives the students the

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LOVDAHL & SHIMMIN, INC. 220 east broadway monmouth, il 61462 Cost is $25 and includes the sign, two stakes and 309-734-7109 309-734-4492 FAX one decal. Additional decals available for $5 each. Proceeds beneﬁt the United High School PORTER INSURANCE AGENCY sophomore class. DEBBIE MEEKER-KING, Agent Contact Michelle Kaywood at 337-7889 to 200 East Broadway Monmouth, IL 61462 place your order. Delivery is available. 309-734-7234 [email protected] Feb. North Campus Menu Feb. West Campus Menu

MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY 2 3 4 5 6 2 3 4 5 6 Sausage Pizza Italian Chicken Tenderloin Chicken Strips Stormburger Tenderloin Fiestada Pizza Grilled Chicken Spaghetti w/ Hot Dog Green Beans Pasta Salad French Fries Broccoli/Cheese Tator Triangle Potato Puffs Corn Lettuce/Tomato Meatballs Hash Browns Pear Half Carrots Mand. Oranges Tropical Fruit Peach Half Mixed Fruit Pears Mixed Veggies Tossed Salad Peaches Cookie Applesauce Teddy Graham Cookie Fruit Roll-Up No Bake Cookie Fruit Yogurt Applesauce

Breakfast Stick Cereal/PopTart Bacon & Donut Cereal/Mufﬁn French Toast Nutrigrain Bar Taster Pastry Omelet & Toast Cereal & Donut Danish Pastry

9 10 11 12 13 9 10 11 12 13 ChickNoodles Cheeseburger Hot Turkey Chili Breaded Chick BBQ Pork Rib Turkey Wrap Taco Chicken Noodles Chili Mashed Potato Chips & Salsa Tator Tots Cheese Sticks Peas Green Beans Tomato Soup Lettuce/Cheese Mashed Potatoes Cheese up Mixed Veggies Corn Apricots Carrots & Dip Tropical Fruit Pineapple Applesauce Corn Mixed Fruit Mini Carrots Pineapple Mixed Fruit Cookie Pear Half Cherry Cake Cookie Jello Pears

Cinn. Tastry Cereal/Toast Sausage Biscuit Cereal/PopTart Bacon & Donut Sausage Biscuit Cereal Break. Burrito Cereal Mufﬁns

16 17 18 19 20 16 17 18 19 20 NO SCHOOL Spaghetti Hot Dog Ham AuGratin Hamburger NO SCHOOL Escalloped Super Nachos Cheesy Sausage Pancake Wrap Garlic Sticks Coney Sauce Mixed Veggies French Fries Chicken Mexican Corn Pasta Hash Browns President’s Day Green Beans Tator Triangle Mand Oranges Peach Half President’s Day Green Beans Applesauce Cole Slaw Orange Half Applesauce Mixed Fruit Fruit Roll-Up Cookie Pineapple & Pears Mufﬁn Mand. Oranges

Cereal/Mufﬁn Bacon & Donut Cereal & Toast Cinn. Biscuit Bacon & Donut Cereal & Donut Cereal & Toast Breakfast Pizza

23 24 25 26 27 23 24 25 26 27 Chick Nuggets BBQ Rib Grilled Cheese Crispito NO LUNCH Chicken Patty Cheeseburger Sausage Pizza Chicken Nuggets NO LUNCH Mashed Potato Tator Tots Tomato Soup Lettuce/Tomato Oven Potatoes Corn 7-Layer Salad Potatoes/Gravy Mixed Veggies Corn Tropical Fruit Peach Half School Im- Peaches Applesauce Pears Sliced Carrots School Im- Pineapple Pudding Cup Fruit Roll-Up Cookie provement Day Grahams No Bake Cookie Trail Mix Pudding provement Day Roll & Butter

Breakfast Pizza Cereal/PopTart Pancakes Cereal/Mufﬁn Mufﬁns Cereal Bacon & Donut Cereal & Donut

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2 3 4 5 6 Fiestada Chicken Patty Chicken Fried Steak Spaghetti & Meatballs Pizza Chips & Cheese Chips Mashed Potatoes & Gravy Garlic Bread Chips Spanish Rice Baked Beans Peas Hot Rolls Salad Green Beans Mixed Veggies Peaches Mandarin Oranges Pears Pineapple Cake 9 10 11 12 13 Crispitos Cheeseburger Chili or Chicken Soup Chili Dogs Macaroni & Cheese Chips & Cheese French Fries Peanut Butter Sandwich French Fries Little Smokies Spanish Rice Corn Scalloped Corn Mixed Vegetables Baked Beans Green Beans Mandarin Oranges Pears Fruit Snack Cookie Peaches Pink Applesauce 16 17 18 19 20 NO SCHOOL BBQ Rib Sandwich Chicken Nuggets Goulash Fish Sandwich French Fries Mashed Potatoes & Gravy Cheesy Bread Sticks Chips Corn PRESIDENT’S DAY Baked Beans Green Beans Peas Mandarin Oranges Mixed Fruit Fruit Crisp Ice Cream Peaches Cake 23 24 25 26 27 Burritos Chefrite Salisbury Steak Lasagna NO LUNCH Chips & Cheese French Fries Mashed Potatoes & Gravy Garlic Bread Spanish Rice Green Beans Corn Hot Rolls Salad 11:30 DISMISSAL Mixed Veggies Peaches Mixed Fruit Mandarin Oranges

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Alpha 629-4361 ~ Aledo 582-3150 ~ Alexis 482-5511 New Windsor 667-2735 ~ Viola 596-2189 ~ Woodhull 334-2802 visit our web site at: www.fsbwil.com Member FDIC February Calendar SUNDAY MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY SATURDAY

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 BBB LTC Trny TBA BBB LTC TrnyTBA BBB LTC Trny TBA BBB LTC Trny TBA BBB LTC Trny TBA BBB LTC Trny TBA

GBB vs Princeville GBB vs Aledo GBB @ Alwood GBB vs Cambridge 1pm JHGBB @ Mon. JHGBB vs ICS Schol Bowl @ United Rville Speech Regionals @ Limestone

8 9 10 11 12 13 14 All boys basketball GBB Regionals Begin BBB vs ROWVA United Sports Booster F/JV BBB vs BPC BBB vs West Central JHGBB vs Orion games are played Mtg @ High School at the Fieldhouse in Frosh BBB vs 6:00 pm Schol Bowl @ United Speech Sectionals Alexis beginning at Wethersﬁeld 6pm @ DeKalb 6:00 pm unless noted JHGBB vs Costa

School Board Mtg @ North Campus 7pm

15 16 17 18 19 20 21 All girls basketball NO SCHOOL BBB @ Princeville JHGBB @ Cam- Schol Bowl @ United BBB @ Aledo BBB @ Williamsﬁeld games are played at PRESIDENT’S DAY bridge the South Campus Speech State Finals Speech State Finals beginning at 6:00 pm GBB Sectionals Begin @ Belleville @ Belleville unless noted ICTM Regionals 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 All junior high GBB Supersectionals JHGBB @ Wethers- Schol Bowl @ Stark GBB State Finals FS BBB @ Elmwood basketball games are ﬁeld County Tournament TBA played at the West BBB Regionals Begin 11:30 Dismissal Campus beginning at GBB State Finals 5:30 pm JHGBB vs ROWVA Ag Alumni 3-on-3 Despite weather, United winter activities are hot

United High School’s cheer- opportunity to perform at that the game that night No bull: UHS cheerleaders work leading squad was afforded a rare night’s Chicago Bulls game. Pictured left at center court out at Chicago’s United Center opportunity ahead of Christmas Even though they didn’t per- are (top row, from left to right) break: a chance to work out with form, the girls were treated to Melissa McDonald, Ivy Shepard, the Chicago Bulls’ cheerleaders an exciting 113-104 Bulls’ win Krissy Mason and Macy Sprout; at the United Center. as Ben Gordon scored 29 points (center row, left to right) Amanda The girls performed a dance and Derrick Rose had nine of his Sage, Trisha Swanson, Lyndsey routine and were part of an 22 in the fourth quarter to lead Fredrickson and Caiti Kozelich- afternoon competition. Unfor- Chicago to the victory over the ki; and (bottom row, left to right) tunately, United’s squad finished New Jersey Nets. Lindsey Brentise and Megan third in their division, with the More than 30 United parents, VanSkike. top two teams being given the family and friends also attended TEC on minds of FCA By Katy Schrader guys to girls each time. and Brittany Johnson, Mr. and The Fellowship of Christian TEC is composed of home- Mrs. Johnson have twice made Athletes has been recuperating made meals, games, lots of cook- a trip to Cambodia to volunteer from the December food and ies, and....surprises. The retreat at a center called Rapha House, United cheerleaders at the House that Michael Built gift drives with weekly meetings is held at a special community which rescues young Cambodian and devotions in the month of center made just for the pur- girls from the sex slave trade January. The main focus of the pose of holding TEC weekends. and teaches them basic skills and Speech team solid heading club has lately been to encour- Everyone who has attended TEC Christianity to better their lives age fellow peers to attend Teens enjoyed their time spent there after leaving the safe house. into Kessler’s final stretch Encounter Christ (TEC), a faith- and encourages their fellow peers The Johnsons plan on present- based weekend retreat located in to consider the experience. ing a slide show of their trip and By Julie Gunter humorous duet, and Johnson Moline that is open to any high If you are interested in going to a detailed account of what they The United Speech team, led received 2nd with Katy Schrader school student at least 16 years TEC, you can get an application do there. by coach Deb Kessler, has put up for the ladies’ dramatic duet. of age. from Mr. Johnson or any student If you are interested in attend- a solid season thus far. Sending One invite, the Lincoln Trail The journey begins on a Satur- in FCA. ing this motivating presentation, Marina Eagen to finals at the first Conference meet, and Region- day morning and ends Monday FCA is plans to host a presen- contact an FCA member, Mr. meet in Metamora and placing als remain on the speech team’s afternoon. Transportation can tation by Mr. and Mrs. Marty Zink, or Mr. Johnson in February third in sweeps at the Mon- schedule for this season. be provided. A TEC weekend Johnson at United High School to learn when it will be held. mouth-Roseville invite, the team This will signal a fond farewell is held every month, December in late February. The parents of started off on the right foot. to Coach Kessler, as she retires through June, and alternates from high school students Elizabeth The last meet, on January 10 at the end of this year, after five at Canton, saw 11 of the team’s years of holding rank as coach at 15 entries make finals, netting a United and several more as head fourth place finish overall. of former Yorkwood’s speech The stats rack up as follows: team. Kristy Schwass - 7th in declamation, Logan Hickerson - 6th in prose reading, Cecilia Prentice TURBO WASH - 6th in declamation, Joe Wood 115 Industrial Park Ave “Anything You Need From The Ground Up” - 5th in humorous interpretation, Monmouth Remodeling • Kitchens & Baths • New Construction • HVAC Maisie Hendrickson - 5th in Tokens Available Serving Burlington & original oratory, Grace Simpson “Use us, Avoid rust!” 319-759-0570 Surrounding Area - 4th in extemporaneous speaking, Marina Eagen - 2nd in 309-482-6161 309-371-9504 special occasion speaking, and Jake Armstrong - 2nd in original M & R Kenney comedy. Armstrong also finished third with Beth Johnson for their Painting Mark & Ruth Kenney insured 2786 40th Ave paint/wallpaper Alexis, IL 61412 renovation refinishing [email protected] http://community.webshots.com/user/mandrkenney Approval of LTC and WPT co-ops for 2009-2010 means altering schedules for United athletics However, future of the Eagles.” ing of the WPT Board of Control. Lincoln Trail Conferences. same schools as the Prairieland “Finding non-conference op- With the Alwood-ROWVA co- With the neighboring Prairi- for future expansion. two conferences re- ponents is getting harder at this op continuing, United is expected eland Conference indicating it Prairieland, Olympic and West mains in limbo point in the year as most team’s to play the same schedule as it will pull out of the West Prairie Central Conference schools, already have contracts to fill out had this past season, unless other Trail at the end of the 2009 along with several others in With United casting the decid- their allotted number of games,” changes are made.. football season, the survival of neighboring conferences have ing ballot at the January meeting said Kozelichki. For the Red Storm, that will the conference beyond next year received letters of inquiry from of the Lincoln Trail Confer- “The IHSA limits the number mean home varsity games on is in doubt. the Lincoln Trail Conference. ence, approval was given for the of single games we can play in September 11 versus Stark Additionally, United is among Included in that group is Mon- Alwood and Cambridge school both volleyball and basketball County, October 2 against Al- a number of schools that has mouth-Roseville, an Olympic districts to co-op volleyball, golf, based on the number of tourna- wood-ROWVA, Ocotber 16 with received a letter inviting it to Conference school. cross country and boys and girls’ ments we’re in, so once a team Peoria Heights, and October 23 become a future member of the Additionally, the Storm Tracker basketball for the 2009-2010 has it’s full schedule, there’s no versus Elmwood-Brimfield. Prairieland Conference which is has learned the Olympic Confer- school year. way to squeeze in another game. The United freshman-sopho- seeking to expand from its cur- ence, iteself, is soliciting for new The two schools already co-op “I expect we’ll still play the more team would have five home rent nine team base to as many as members and has sent invitation baseball, softball and boys and maximum number of games games, on both Mondays and 16 teams. letters to several LTC schools, girls’ track. allowed, but it might mean trav- Tuesdays, depending upon sched- At the January principals’ meet- including newly consolidated The two schools will not be elling a little further and play- uling around the Labor Day and ing, Lincoln Trail Conference Aledo-Westmer. Aledo had been allowed to co-op football until ing a school we don’t normally Columbus Day holidays. schools voted to extend invita- an Olumpic Conference school the 2010-2011 school year, at the schedule.” Still to be determined is the fu- tions to a number of area schools, until two years ago when it earliest. It appears the dilemna regard- ture of both the West Prairie and as well, targeting many of the joined the LTC> Agreement between the ing the football schedule has Alwood and Cambridge ath- been solved. letic directors will mean using The IHSA has given approval Alwood’s volleyball schedule for a one-year extension of the Girls already double 07-08 win total and Cambridge’s basketball Alwood-ROWVA football co-op By Anton Kozelichki stretch of no practices or games, schedules next year. for 2009. For United athletic director For the 2008-2009 Red Storm it throws off your rhythm. Also, Alwood had sought approval Tony Kozelichki, that means girls basketball team, having because the games are resched- from the West Prairie Trail Con- 3 out of 4 games cancelled is uled, there will be a time when finding another non-conference ference to co-op football with opponent in each sport to go with tough. “It wasn’t just that we we have a lot of games and little Cambridge, while ROWVA had missed games, it was that we practice.” the holes in the schedule already sought a similar agreement with being created by the loss of weren’t able to practice ei- The girls were scheduled to Galva-Williamsfield. ther,” said coach Dennis Mann. play Abingdon on December Westmer, which next year con- Both proposals were rejected a “Having so many practices and 22, but because of weather, the solidates with Aledo under the second time at the January meet- moniker “Mercer County Golden games in a row, and then have a game was cancelled. It will not be rescheduled. The Cambridge and Alwood games were also Boys continue up & down season cancelled and have been rescheduled for January 30 and February By Anton Kozelichki rience was good for them. their defense was very good and 5, respectively. For the Red Storm boys “It was a real neat experience. offense changed dramatically as The girls recently finished the basketball team, improvement is The boys probably don’t realize they went on to win 57-29. Sophomore Gina Long has Lincoln Trail Conference Tour- very big in how neat it was, but when they The LTC tourney begins Satur- consistently led the girls in nament with a record of 2-3. the eyes of head coach Jim get older, they will”. day, with the schedule available scoring throughout the year. The girls started out facing Noonan. “Overall, we have im- Following the Moline game, on the school’s website. Aledo, winning by a score of proved a decent amount, but we the Red Storm lost a heartbreak- 55-42 with Gina Long scoring 20 out the victory losing to ROW- still have a lot to improve upon. er to Rockridge, 39-38. They and Bre Christian scoring 12. VA, 56-51, with Long scoring 13 First, is consistency. We have went on to beat a struggling In the second game, the Red and sophomore Brooke Arm- shown spurts of being a very Galva team 66-56. They lost to Storm lost to the IHSA’s class strong scoring 10. good team, but we need to stay Annawan, 80-37, then played 1A number 3 ranked team, West “That’s been our biggest consistent”. Westmer and went down early Central, by a score of 55-36 with problem all year. We can’t finish After the West Carroll tour- 10-0 without scoring until late recent Review Atlas Athlete of games. We’ve had three games nament, the boys had a special in the first quarter. At the end of the Week Mollie Murdock scor- that were winnable, but we oppurtunity when they played halftime, the Red Storm had a ing 10. couldn’t pull it out,” said coach the Moline Maroon junior varsity lead, but not a comfortable one The Lady Storm went on to Mann. team at the historic Wharton they were hoping for. beat Cambridge 60-47, but lost The Red Storm is currently Fieldhouse. The boys lost, but After halftime, it looked like senior Victoria Fredrickson, 8 and 13 which already doubles coach Noonan thought the expe- a completely different team, as when she broke her wrist with 10 their win total from last year. seconds left in the game. Long “We kind of expected to have scored 21 and Murdock scored more wins this year, but it wasn’t 11 for the Storm. as good as we thought. We need In the final game for United, to learn how to close games out the girls, who had an 11 point because that’s when we struggle” lead at one point, couldn’t pull said Mann.

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