Volume 50 Issue 3 Hoofbeats January/February 2014 MERCER AREA HIGH SCH O O L MHS Shining Stars

District 10 Runner-Ups By Kaitlin Conner Editor This loss still this, a 10-2 record for Cailee Murray made history the region, an overall Alex Dawson as giving them record of 16 wins and 5 Samantha Phillips the title of Dis- losses, and Lexie Ark- Erica Schoen trict 10 Runner- wright reaching 1,000 Tina Blake Ups, a feat not career points. Katelyn Cogswell met in many When asked what the Beka Faulkner years of Mer- most important game Kara Redmond cer history. Not played in the regular Kaitlin Conner to mention their season Aaron Cook, previous head coach, responded, 28 years ago in 1986, playoff wins against Fair- “Definitely the Sharon the Lady M‟s won the view (44-33), and their game at Sharon. This Inside this issue: first and only girls bas- win against Girard in game (win) put us back ketball District 10 title. overtime (48-38) has into first place.” This On March 1, the girls‟ filled the stands more and close match brought NEWS 2-3 team entered the same more each game. many Mercer fans out FEATURES 4-6 gym, Edinboro Universi- The next game was the to watch the nerve ty‟s McComb Field first state playoff game for wracking game, which SPORTS 7 House, with the same the team. On March 7, ended with a score (59- goal in mind, to bring the Lady M‟s went up 56). As for the hard- MERCER’S SHINING STARS 8- home the trophy. against Greensburg Cen- ships of the season he 12 Although they did not tral Catholic at Sharon stated, “Staying healthy OP-ED 12- win, they have still far High School. Mercer has been a problem. 14 exceeded the expecta- came out with a loss of There has been a lot of COLUMNS 15- tions people have put (56-31). illnesses going around 19 on a small school like The Lady M‟s regular this season.” Mercer. season was a whirlwind Senior night was the THROUGH THE LOOKING 20 GLASS Mercer kept the lead of wins and victories. En- game against the until entering the fourth tering into the playoffs, Sharpsville Blue Devils. quarter with a score of they carried the accom- Seniors this year were 27-19. General McLane plishments of Region 2 Lexie Arkwright, Jor- then put up a total of 19 Champs (tied with Sha- dan Fisher, Megan points in the fourth and ron) which is also the first McKinney and Alexis Mercer only 4, leaving time in twelve years the Mills. the final tally at 38-31. girls‟ team has reached Hoofbeats

The End Is Near By Cailee Murray Coming back form Christmas break seniors were reminded they are almost done. Whatever kind of emotion that may bring, it is true the end really is near. On Monday, January 6, seniors were to report to the auditorium directly after lunch for an informational meeting on cap and gown orders. At the meeting a representative from Balfour handed out order forms to the seniors. He explained what needed done and how. The representative returned on Tuesday, January 14 to collect all the completed order forms during the lunch period in the student activity room. For most seniors this was a big eye opener. Walking down the hallway many seniors could be heard saying, “Wow, all ready?”

Band Concert By Katelyn cogswell The Mercer High School Band Concert was band played Irish Festival and “Irish Jig Young held on February 27 in school‟s auditorium. Feet.” Junior Rebekah Falkner stated that she The concert invited everyone to get in touch really enjoys going to every band concert be- with their inner leprechaun because of the cause they improve each performance. “The Celtic Music theme. music is always awesome; they are always The groups that performed were Wind Ensem- really good song choices. “Adrian Reeher, ble, High School Concert Band, and Middle saxophone player, stated that he feels like School Concert band. Wind ensemble played, they were not as prepared for this concert. “Be Thou My Vision” and “The Gallop.” High They did their best to make it a successful School Concert band performed “J.S. Jig” and concert, which it was. “With a little more prac- “Irish Air for Winds.” Together the group pre- tice the performances would have been more sented River Dance. Middle school concert unforgettable.”

Academic Game All-Stars By Samantha Phillips Academic games are a series of games that challenge the team members mentally. There are different categories involved. Math, English, history, and logic are all fair game at a competition. There are roughly seven students participating in academic games. Liz Ludwig, Jon-Carl Hostetler, Alex Roman, Justin LaBarge, Mason Borowicz, and Andrew Brinker are all on the team. The students practice in Mrs. Walzer‟s room. She holds practice after school every Monday and Tuesday. “I really enjoy being in academic games because I get to challenge my mind even after school.” said Andrew. The small team of seven must put in 110% effort in order to pose a threat to their competitors. The team competes at Slippery Rock University. Tournaments are scheduled randomly in co- ordination of availability of each team. Once at the competition, each team member receives a name tag and go to their assigned table. There are three rounds of competition. After all three rounds the students are given lunch and sit back to relax.” SRU is a nice place to get Starbucks.” mentioned Liz. After lunch all the teams gather for awards. A team can win by being undefeated. In order to be undefeated, a team must have the highest score or place in the top ten of the competitors of the tournament. Mercer‟s team was excited for the opportunity to compete this year. Page 2 January/February 2014

Students for charity fundraisers By Erica schoen Mercer Area High School‟s Students for Charity is sold carnations for Valentine‟s Day this year. The students were selling the flowers during lunch periods for two dollars each. The sales started Monday February 3 and ended on Monday February 10. The carnations were handed out to the students on Valentine‟s Day during lunch by students in Students for Charity. The carnations were a good way to get someone special a nice flower for only two dollars. Students for Charity is also sponsored a March of Dimes: Dime war. The students were asked to participate in dime war by placing dimes in their first period teacher‟s jugs. They could sabotage other classes by placing other coins such as quarters, nickels, and pennies in other teachers jugs. It started March 10 and ended March 14. All the proceeds for both fundraisers are going towards ongoing projects of SFC, but all proceeds are going towards a good cause.

Strain the Jazz Man By rebekah falkner The district jazz festival Education Association. It last year‟s district jazz was on January 31 to included students from band and last summer‟s February 1 at Slippery four counties, Mercer, SRU jazz camp. Kyle Rock University. The Lawerence, Beaver and had also said that it was festival was one full day Butler. The event was a lot of fun, and he defi- of rehearsal. The next hosted by Dr. Jason Kush. nitely recommend to any morning was spent re- Kyle Strain said he was underclassmen who hearsing, and then there excited that he made it his wants to play more jazz was a concert in the af- senior year because he with other jazz-lovers. ternoon. It is a 1 1/2 day made it his junior year and Students had to audition PMEA festival. This he felt like meeting up prior the concert and on- event is sponsored by with some friends for sen- ly a select few were in- the Pennsylvania Music ior year. He said he had vited to participate. known a few people from Thumbs up to Kyle’s musical success. Maureen Sings Out For Mercer By rebekah she made regional cho- Maureen said that she rus her senior year. didn‟t know anyone else falkner Maureen was the only there except her friends Regional chorus was one from our school that that she had made at February 12 through made it to regional cho- previous festivals. For February 14. Regional rus. It is a competition to regional chorus you stay chorus is a festival of the make the top chair to get in a hotel with other most prestigious group to states. Regional cho- singers from other of elite vocalists, with rus starts on Wednesday schools. some other people. with rehearsals and au- Maureen stated that ditions, and ends on Fri- was very excited that day night with a concert. Page 3 Hoofbeats Mercer’s hollywood star By Kaitlin Conner An interview appeared in a 1994 issue of the Rolling Stones, Reznor stated: “I don’t know why I want to do these things, other than my desire to escape from Small Town, U.S.A., to dismiss the boundaries, to explore. It isn’t a bad place where I grew up, but there was nothing going on but the cornfields. My life expe- riences came from watching movies, watching TV and reading books and look- ing at magazines. And when your culture comes from watching TV every day, you’re bombarded with images of things that seem cool, places that seem inter- esting, people who have jobs and careers and opportunities. None of that hap- pened where I was. You’re almost taught to realize it’s not for you.”

Michael was born May 17, 1965 in our hometown Mercer, Pennsyl- vania. He is a descendent of George Reznor, the founder of Reznor Heating and Air-Conditioning Manufacturing Company. As a 1983 graduate of Mercer Are High School, he sat in the same classes and walked in the same hallways as you do today. Reznor was gifted in music from an early age. He played piano since the age of five, he was a member of both the jazz and marching band playing both the tenor sax and tuba. He was voted “best in drama” by his classmates for his roles as Ju- das in Jesus Christ Superstar and Professor Harold Hill in The Music Man. He was accepted to Allegheny where he studied computer engineering. During college he played in a local band called Option 30. One year later he dropped out of college and got a job as a janitor and assistant engineer at Cleveland‟s Right Track Studio where he recorded the first nine songs of the first album released by .

The following is a brief summary of his professional accomplishments: 1989 – First Nine Inch Nails Album released 1991– Performed with Lollapalooza Tour

The 1982 band officers. Trent Reznor is 1994 – The album Broken EP received 12 Grammy nominations and 2 Grammy second in from the left. awards 1994 – The album was released. Video from the single “Closer” is still in Museum of Modern Art in New York City 1994 - Reznor produced soundtrack to Oliver Stone‟s Natural Born Killers 1995 – Reznor joined David Bowie‟s tour 1997 – Produces soundtrack for Lost Highway 2002 – Album debuted at #1 2005 – Album was released 2007 – The album Year Zero was released with an accompanying video game which later turned into a HBO mini-series 2008 – Release of album The Slip 2010 – Reznor composed musical score for The Social Network which won the Golden Globe Award for best score 2011 – Reznor wrote the musical score for The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo 2012 – The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo won Grammy for best score soundtrack

Trent Reznor’s senior picture for visual media As you can see, Trent Reznor, a MHS graduate has become a real super star. Little did he know, that in 1980, when he scratched his name into the wooden chair that currently resides behind Mr. Chess’s desk, millions would be one day Page 4 seeking his autograph. January/February 2014 Sports Hall of Fame By Samantha Phillips To be in the Mercer Area Grundy, Mr. Hoover, Mrs. uel Leech Maskrey. High School hall of fame is a Langdon, Mr. Piddington, Rhodes was a mercer basket- great honor. An athlete that Mr. Ringer, Mr. Vanwoert, ball, volleyball, and track and was astounding in high school and Mr. Whenry are on the field star. She was a four year is eligible for the title ten committee. letter winner in basketball and years after his or her gradua- Nominations are taken from scored 1,126 career points. She tion date. A memorable team the public every year prior to currently works for Walt Disney is eligible ten years after the the voting process. The in- as a corporate partnership man- season they were being rec- duction ceremony this year ager. ognized for. And for those un- was held on January 24. After Allan is a three year letter win- forgettable coaches, the title the ceremony is over, a re- ner for the boys‟ basketball can be theirs after five years ception for the inductees, team. He was voted MVP his post retirement. family, and friends is held in senior year and is currently a Once someone, or a team, the cafeteria. To be in the math teacher at Grove City Mid- is in the hall of fame they are MHS hall of fame is a great dle School. in forever. Deciding who is honor. It has shown how Maskrey was a professional qualified enough is up to the much time and effort the in- baseball player for the Louisville committee. The committee ductees had to put into their Eclipses and the Cincinnati Red consists of school administra- high school sport/coaching Stockings. He holds the fourth tors, teachers, and members career. best fielding average for the of the community. Mr. Amos, This year‟s new inductees America Association Outfield. He Mr. Brandes, Mr. Crilley, Mr. names are Valerie White died in his hometown of Mercer Creasy, Dr. Gathers, Mrs. Rhodes, Justin Allan, Sam- on April 1, 1927. Giles Scores Big by Kaitlin conner

Miss Merrilynn Giles Miss Giles was a stand the NCAA Division III County Record (115 is Mercer High Schools' -out athlete in both high region quarterfinals in wins - 7 losses). P. O. D. teacher, Ad- school and college. 1982 with a 37-7 record When asked what vanced Government She attended West and a softball career she felt when she teacher, and Junior and Middlesex High School with which she was a learned that she was Senior Class Advisor. where she was a four- two-year captain and All chosen for the hall of On Saturday January year starter and letter -Conference her senior fame she responded, 18, 2014, Miss Giles winner on a very suc- year. "It was very humbling." was one of eleven in- cessful volleyball team Her involvement in vol- Miss Giles was also ducted into the Mercer and a three-year letter leyball, her favorite asked who she con- County Hall of Fame. winner in basketball. sport, then transitioned sidered her sport hero Some of her fellow in- Just recently, in 2010, into coaching after her to be. "Any athlete ductees included MHS she was inducted into own schooling. Miss who gives 100% to standout athlete Sandi the West Middlesex Hall Giles was head volley- their sport." For her Bittler and former Mer- of Fame. ball coach at her alma personally, the certain cer track coach James Her athletic career did mater, West Middlesex, person who most mo- Waldorf. This ceremony not stop there. After for 12 years. Major ac- tivated her to excel in took place at the Park high school, she attend- complishments her sports was her high Inn by Radisson. All in- ed Grove City College teams over the years school volleyball ductees were given a and played volleyball claimed were 3rd place coach, Lynn Trimble. plaque, watch, sweater, and softball. Some ac- P. I. A. A. champions, Currently, Miss Giles and gift basket. complishments she met District 10 champions, 2 enjoys golfing and her while playing at GCC undefeated regular sea- job as a volleyball offi- consisted of the volley- son wins, and Mercer cial. ball team advancing to Page 5 Hoofbeats

Do you hear the bells? By Cailee murray and kara redmond

Dum. Dum Dum Dum. Jared's. flowers for everyone in Dum. Dum Dum Dum. Like a man, Rust was the wedding. One of the There is exciting news only as nervous as a downs is being over- this year at Mercer High ninth grader taking a bi- whelmed with all the dif- School! ology test. He is always ferent choices one can Mr. Luke Rust and trying to be funny. May- pick from.” Miss Allyson Neff to be that is what Neff likes Rust explained that the take his hand in mar- about him. cost of planning every- riage and she said yes! The wedding date is thing is a downside for Mr. Rust and Miss Neff’s Rust proposed to Neff set for May 24, 2014. him. engagement picture on November 17, 2013. Neff explained what the It is very special that Neff explained that it ups and downs of wed- two teachers in the was a n inside joke the ding planning are, “One same school would fall way he asked. She was of the most exciting in love. very surprised by his things to planning a Good luck to the future question. wedding is picking out a Mr. and Mrs. Luke Rust. The ring it is absolutely wedding dress. Also, I Mercer hopes you bring beautiful, even though really enjoy picking out each other eternal hap- he did not get it from the dresses, suits, and piness and eternal joy.

Cars are a Pain by Tina Blake As teenagers, getting the The price of this will vary requirements and the fuel perfect car is what students greatly. Other expenses economy of the car and look forward to, but they that students may face are how many miles are driven. never stop to think how as easy replacing a light Another factor to consider much cars actually will cost bulb or as complicated as a is the price of insurance. to maintain. Every car will brake replacement or Drivers must carry insur- eventually need to be re- heading a motor or trans- ance at least to cover the paired. It may be a cheap mission work done. costs of an accident. Teen repair or very expensive. Not only do cars need to drivers are charged at a Because many teens pur- be repaired, but also they higher rate. This is another chase used or second- need to have a yearly in- hidden cost of owning a hand vehicles the upkeep spection and the emissions car. may be very expensive. If levels checked, which can Cars are not cheap. The a teen has a mechanic in also be costly. The aver- initial purchase price is the family or is mechanical- age price is anywhere from simply the tip of the ice- ly inclined the cost may be $48.00 to $65.00 without berg. They can be a chal- less, but paying a profes- the expensive of the need- lenge to maintain and be sional can be a challenge ed repairs that this trip to an even bigger pain to re- and the extra charge for the garage always entails. pair. their skill beyond the need- Cars also need gas. ed parts. Nowadays with gas being Repainting a vehicle can $3.65 a gallon, it can get be one expense which a expensive. It depends on Page 6 teen car owner may face. the type of car, the gas January/February 2014 Boys BASKETBALL BY ERICA SCHOEN The boys‟ basketball season was 52-40, Cochranton winning while to get use to playing to- is officially over. The boys‟ in the end. gether. They were in a lot of final record was 12-11 overall The game sending the boys‟ close games and during the first and for the region record was off to playoffs was when they half they just were not able to 7-5, and they made it to the played Lakeview at Lakeview come out on top. The second first round of playoffs. This is on February 14, 2014. They half of the season they were the first time the boys‟ team boys won that game 58-44. better at playing together and has made playoffs since the Coach Schmid said that the played really well, they were 2005-2006 season. In the still in a lot of close games but playoffs they team played they were able to pull through Mercyhurst Prep and they and get the win. played at Mercyhurst College. Trenton Fowler, one of the The final score of the game seniors, stated, “It was a good was 59-42 and was played season. We accomplished a lot February 20, 2014 at 6:30 of we wanted to do this year. p.m. We came up shorter than we Coach Doug Schmid stated wanted with the loss to Prep but that the main strength of the overall, one of the best seasons basketball team this year was we have had in a long time.” (add). With seniors Nathan teams‟ strengths this year were Coach Schmid has a lot of Guiler and Trenton Fowler they had good camaraderie; plans for the off season, includ- leaving the team Coach pre- they were all very hardworking ing team camps, underclass- dicts that their strengths next and had good skill. With the two men tournaments, summer rec, year will be (add). seniors leaving them are both and a summer league. The boys' played taking away their great leader- When asked, Coach Schmid Cochranton for their senior ship skills. He also said that summed up the team by saying, night, on February 11, 2014. the first half of the season it “We were competing in every The final score of that game was taking the team a little game.”

Wrestling By Katelyn cogswell Wrestling is an important away at Grove City the title tion. The varsity wrestling team sport. This year the schedule was also Fred Bell Tourna- consists of; Chase Bangall, for January was; Saturday 4 ment. Senior Gerald Best Gerald Best, Jessie Brothers, at 9:00am away at Sharps- said that his favorite thing Trevor Fowler, Samuel Garner, ville. The Event title was Re- about being on the team is Eric Gawne, Jonathan Henne- gion 1 Duals. Tuesday 14 at the tournaments. The hardest gan, Preston Hoover, Chris 7:15pm, home vs. Grove City. thing would be the condition- Mickey, Zane O’Brian, Conner Friday 17 at 3:30 pm, home ing. Best said that Reynolds Richards, Clay Ruffo, Elijah vs. Multiple opponents. The was the hardest to compete Rutter, Troy Sagulla, and Ben title was 1st annual Mercer against because they have a Shaffer. The middle school team Varsity Tournament. Saturday tough program. This was his consists of; William Chess, 18 at 9:30am, home vs. multi- first and last year of being on Bradley Filer, Robert Gregory, ple opponents. Wednesday the wrestling team. He stated Austin Hesselgesser, Zachary 22 at 7:00 pm away at Green- that if he was to give a young- King, Nathan Knopp, Douglas ville. Friday 24 away at Grove er classmen advice about be- Lumley, Noah Mclaughlin, and City the title was Fred Bell ing on the team he would tell Cole Ruffo. Tournament. Saturday 25 them they need determina- Page 7 Hoofbeat

Daelyn Gilson

 Horsemanship  Compete with her horses  Competes in game classes and Western Pleasure  Won many ribbons  Has competitively showing western pleasure for 5-6 years  Made is to district shows many times  “they say money cant buy happiness but it can buy horses, which is close enough” Hayden Maine

 4-H  Shows animals  Multiple showman awards  Multiple champion fitter awards  Lightweight champion hog  Multiple weight classes  Multiple best of shows

Bradley Thompson

 Traditional Native American Powwow Dancing  Has never entered in any competitions  Gifts are occasionally received from other dancers.  Uses Powwow dancing to be closer to his culture.  The Powwow also includes, drumming, flute playing and food.

Shane Glaser

 Trapping coons includes setting a trained dog free and waiting for it to track down a raccoon in a tree for you to shoot.  You can get money for the raccoon skins at the end of the season.  Shane said “You have to spend money before you can make money.”

Page 8 January/February 2014

Emily Thompson

 Cosplay  A person/people dress up as a character from a movie, comic book, TV show, etc.  They go to conventions and meet other people who do the same thing.  “I love cosplaying. It expresses my love for Loki, (the character I cosplay.) It makes me feel like I am Loki. I feel invincible.”

Jananlyn A. Miklas

 International Harmonica Player  Travels all over US to play  Has even been to Europe  Won scholarship for SPAH- The William Rosebush Youth Grant  The Germany, Jananlyn Miklas Scholarship- her and 1 other are paid for to go to World Harmonica Festival in Trossingen, Germa- ny  I play harmonica because it has been passed down the genera- tions in my family. The harmonica is a beautiful instrument that can play all genres of music.” Miranda Schimp

 Horseman ship  She not only loves riding her horse just to ride, but she loves to compete. She has competed in 4H for four years.  She has made it Harrisburg twice now to compete in the annual Pennsylvania 4H state horse show receiv- ing the top 10 both times  “I participate in horse activities because I love the learning experience, and the challenges that are faced. th  In 2010 she placed 8 125 horses in the state of PA th  In 2013 she placed 7 126 horses in the state of PA

Page 9 Hoofbeats Erica Peters  Motor-cross  It can be anything from taking it easy around the track to riding your heart out in the biggest race of your life on a 400 pound dirt bike.  “Just grip it and rip it. It gives me a small sense of freedom and happiness I never really felt before.”

Kaylee Banco  Figure Skating  Competitive figure skating  “It’s challenging and it’s something I enjoy doing.”  Multiple medals won  Skater of the year in 2011

Kelsey Marsh  Girl scout ambassador  She has participated in girl scouts for 12 years  Earned her bronze, silver, and gold awards  Also earned her ambassador service award

Brandon Borden  Golf  He says it is somewhat frustrating, addicting, and competitive  “It forces the player to improvise with what he has, and it is about overcoming obstacles.” Emily McGhee  4-H  Raise animals and show them  Animals like pigs and sheep Eli Rutter  Champion  “Because it is a fun experience.”  Motocross  Competitive dirt bike racing Cody Nespor  Won Canadian-America National twice Placed in top 12 of the biggest amateur national race Bowling  Weekly matches against other schools  “I race because it is the one thing I can do where nothing else 6 points can be won: 5 from each game 1 from the matters and it is just me and my dirt bike. It is also a great total pin fall way to meet new friends and spend time with family driving The team has made playoffs 3 years in a row countless hours in our rig together every weekend.” “Teamwork makes the dream work.” Page 10 January/February 2014 Jake Bartley

 Hunting  He hunts almost every single game species  He also hunts every season  He favorite thing to hunt is the White-tailed deer and spring turkey  Hunting is his way of relaxing and enjoy the outdoors  “I hunt because my dad got me into it, and I love every second of being in the woods. God gave us these creatures to use and live off of.” Andrea Sajewski and Kaitlin Wiggins

 Dance  Both girls dance at Dotty McGill’s School of Dance  They have been dancing since they were four years old  They dance tap, jazz, acrobatics, ballet, pointe, lyrical, and modern  Both are on the competition team  Both attend three different dance competitions a year plus Nationals in the summer  “Dancing is a great way to express yourself while forget- ting about the stress of school.” Grant Smith

 Boy Scout  Achieved the rank of Eagle Scout in June 2013  Earned two gold palms and is currently working on his third (after you achieve Eagle, depending on how many merit badges you have, you can earn awards called “palms”)  “It is possibly the greatest experience of my life. I have been all over the country including Yellowstone, New Mexico, Key West Florida, and next sum- mer we are going to Alaska.” Joe Phillips

 Tae-kwan-do  Korean martial arts  He has won 1 gold, 2 silver, and 4 bronze  2 second place trophies in weapons and breaking boards  2 third place trophies in fighting/weapons  1 first place trophy in fighting  “it is fun and keeps you in shape”

Page 11 Hoofbeats shining stars continued…. Kellie Swanson  On the first Saturday of every month, I carry the Sundance Arena flag in for Grand Entry.  I dress up in sparkly western outfits and represent Sundance Arena.  Twice a year I get to travel to Harrisburg for the Rodeos at the Farm Show Complex. It’s the big- gest Rodeos for Sundance. The Queens dress up extra nice and even get to come to the Rodeo in a limo.  “My favorite part about being Rodeo Queen is talking to the little girls who want to be Rodeo Queens too and wearing a tiara.”

valentine’s day is awful

By Erica Schoen Valentine‟s Day is the worst holiday and not just because I may be spending it alone. In my opinion no one should need a day taken out of the year just to show how much they love someone. If they really loved someone then they would show their love for them every day out of the year and not just that one day. If they just wait for that day to spoil their girlfriend/boyfriend then they may need to rethink their relationship. Now I get that it is a nice day to spend with them but it should be every day. That is just one per- son‟s opinion but I am sure that they are some people that agree with me. I am not saying that no one should celebrate the holiday, but show your love on other

Activities By Katelyn cogswell

Many students do activi- regulations on activities. many families spend ties inside and outside of If students are failing time together because of school. But are they any class, they cannot activities. Family time is overrated? Some activi- attend that event until also affected by activi- ties may increase learn- they get their grades up. ties. Not many families ing, but others are just But that does not mean spend much time with taking time from stu- that they do not partici- each other these days. dents studying time. Stu- pate in outside of school Everyone is always busy dents enjoy doing activi- activities. Students who now these days because ties to have the experi- struggle in school should of activities and work. If ence and being around not have to worry about the amount of activities their friends. There participating in activities done by students was should be a limit on how that take time from their reduced, families would many activities students school work. Family time have more time together are allowed to partici- is also affected by and would get better Page 12 pate in. Schools have school activities. Not too grades. January/February 2014

Bringing MHS together

now and then. Our At only 10:30 t he night By samantha school is in need of a is still young. Instead of phillips new way for students to just sending students Whether your on the boind and have a good home, MHS could offer a field, in the stands, or time together. “I wish better alternative than marching with the band there was more things to parties and drunk driv- football games are a be involved in after ing. huge event at MHS. school.” mentioned Ash- Hundred of schools Hours of practice are put ley Lustenberg. have hosted an after into each game and per- It is hard to get stu- prom. That is when formance. Everyone dents to bond when eve- teachers and staff have puts in 100% effort in to ryone has different likes. games, activities, and the preparation for the That‟s when the staff snacks waiting back to game. Friendships are have to find common the high school for all of made along with unfor- ground. Something eve- the prom goers. Some gettable memories. ryone wants to be a part schools have even hired of. For example, prom. “Sam and I have gotten hypnotist to amuse stu- Girls get their dresses really close this year be- dents. “I think an after months in advance. cause we both are on prom sounds like a lot of danceline!” commented Guys take the time trying to figure out how they fun.” commented Kayla Alexis Weinel. Mason. The intention of However, once football are going to ask their dream girl to the dance. an after prom is to move season has ended, eve- the focus from going out ryone goes their sepa- Prom brings everyone and partying all night to rate ways. Some share a together for an elegant continuing the fun of smile while passing each evening of dancing. But what about after prom? prom with friends. Katie McCann and Tara Hinkson other through the halls demonstrate how their friendship has lasted through the years.

Negative work By Erica Schoen Many juniors and sen- allowing no down time. Even though having a iors and even some Then when they arrive job gives the student sophomores have after home from work they still their own money and school jobs. Many adults have to do the loads of teaches independence it such as the parents and homework. This causes comes at cost. So if you teachers think that the them to be up all hours are a student and have a kids having a job after of the night just to have job make sure you know school is a good thing, to go back and do it all how many hours you but it has a negative side again the next day. Most can work before you go as well. adults say that this is insane. With all the stress that preparing them for the school causes a job just real world but not getting makes it worse. Think sleep and being about it the student stressed all the time is spends all day at school bad for the students‟ just to have to go home health. and go straight to work Page 13 Hoofbeats

Party planning for the antisocial By Alex Dawson

Seniors all around the globe go as they please therefore the route chosen the invita- either dread or anticipate the eliminating the need to create tions sent can ask the par- beginning of June when pa- a very detailed guest list whilst tygoers to bring a side dish or vilions are rented, invitations a formal dinner will have mail drinks to help offset the cost are sent out and all the mag- being sent out that bears in- and labor needed to accom- azines and stores are carol- structions like „and family‟ or modate all the proud guests. ing about graduation party „plus one‟. The RSVP notice Most importantly how- season. Of course the mon- should however be implement- ever is the rule of taking your ey and gifts received for ed with whatever route of cele- time. The venue, invitations, hosting one of these parties bration chosen as this will help and food reservations don‟t are very nice collateral, how- with space and food planning. ever, the planning stage of a Another important pair have to be ready for shipping graduation party can be quite of issues that go hand in hand within the week. It is actually daunting. are the venue and food for the better to schedule the gradua- In the beginning stag- day. An open house can simp- tion party later on in the sum- es of party planning the fore- ly include a backyard and fin- mer due to the mass about most question that answers ger food or a rented park pavil- parties happening. This later a graduates mind is, „What ion. This is a popular style to scheduling will allow for more kind of party?‟ . Of course choose for a graduation party parties come in all shapes because it cuts down on costs guests to show up without the and sizes ranging from an and labor needed to host the higher threat risk of interfering open house to a formal din- party and clean up after it. A events. This is most important ner. Deciding on the type of formal dinner however may because it would be highly graduation celebration to be have you renting out a hall and unfortunate to host a nice par- had will greatly diminish the creating mass cooked foods ty and have only a few people choices needed to make to like pasta or salad. This formal come due to other parties create a wonderful get to- dinner route may cause some gether. The next question of your gift money to go to- scheduled the same as yours. that comes to mind is the wards hall rental or for pur- guest list. An open house will chasing food and drinks. Of allow anyone to come and course, if the open house is

Page 14 January/February 2014

Down By the Decades by Kaitlin conner

Another year has been gone in the blink of an eye and 2014 is finally here. Sports sea- sons are in full swing, the seniors are preparing for graduation, the Sochi 2014 Olympics has come and gone, and New Year‟s Resolutions are being set. The same as today, past MHS students were just as busy as us but with different events.

January/February 1964 The Junior Tri-Hi-Y held a “Sweater Hop” for the junior high on Valentine‟s Day. For the third consecutive year, the Mercer Boys‟ Basketball Team was Tri-County Class B Champs. As of February 13, 1964, their record was 17-1 with a 12 game winning streak. Brothers Stanley and Gordan Livenspire both performed in the Region-Four State Chorus placing 1st and 6th. They both then attended the state competition. More than 20 students were a part of the Hoofbeats staff. 1974 The year‟s prom theme is chosen to be “Old South”. Eric Filer was the only unbeaten, untied wrestler on the Mercer wrestling team so far into that season. Coach Dan Weikal‟s junior high basketball team sported a winning record of 12-1. When participating in an interview about the “energy crisis”, Mrs. Linda Grundy was asked about the wheat shortage, “I hate to pay 54c a loaf for bread… I‟m definitely not looking forward to it.” 1984 Mercer performed the all-school musical Camelot with some of the main characters being Chris Shannon as Aurthur and Tammy Dibler as Guinevere. Mercer‟s annual Christmas dance had the announcing of the “Snow Court”. 1984‟s voted Snow King and Queen were Jesse Garner and Traci Bittler. The Journalism class went to see the live broadcasting of “Pittsburgh 2day” on a field trip. Tryouts for the Varsity volleyball team begin in late January. 1994 Mrs. Wendy McClure is the girls‟ Varsity track coach. Only 15 girls were signed up for the upcoming season. Mercer and New Wilmington Junior High practice for a combined concert in the Mercer High School Auditorium. A fine of $50.00 is put into place for the first time if a student or teacher is caught smoking on school property. 2004 Mercer receives a new trainer, Mr. Gary M. Peretic after the former trainer went to attend nursing school. Jason Moon and Sean Berti become the 10th and 11th Mercer players to reach 1,000 career points in basketball. The Journalism Class voted for the new courses they believe should be added to the schedule next year; Intro. To Correct Parking, A.P. Fashion. Speed Homework 101, Intro. To Complaining, MHS Spirit Class, Basic Art of Faking Sick, Preparation for Track, Locker Organization, Basic Walking in MHS Hallways, and P.D.A. 101. Instead of playing under the Mercer County Athletic Conference, each team will be assigned to a Division in District 10 including A, AA, or AAA and in Section 1, 2, or 3.

Believe it or not! By rebekah falkner  Believe it or not there are 94 Distinguished Alumni Hall Of Fame on the wall on the way to the cafete- ria.  There are also 16 soccer trophies and plaques all together in the display case.  In the basketball case there are 14 trophies and plaques all together.  Believe it or not the academic games have 19 trophies and plaques all together.  These are all located in front of the auditorium.  There are 15 graduated veterans from here.  Believe it or not there is also 19 drawings form past students that are hanging up outside of the gym.

Page 15 Hoofbeats

15 Minutes of Fame by Samantha Phillips

Lindsay Nemeth Robert Flack What is your middle What is your middle name: Ann name: Scott What is your favorite What is your favorite class: C.P. English class: P.O.D. What is your favorite What is your favorite restaurant: Red Lobster restaurant: Subway What is your favorite What is your favorite shoe brand: Sperry shoe brand: Nike What is your favorite What is your favorite type of music: Country Tim Lang type of music: Rap Becky McCullough Where is your favorite What is your middle Where is your favorite What is your middle place to vacation: Vir- name: Michael place to vacation: name: Lynne ginia Beach What is your favorite Rocky Mountain Nation- What is your favorite Do you have any big class: Pre-Calc al Park, Colorado class: Senior Survey plans for the summer: What is your favorite Do you have any big What is your favorite Meet Nour restaurant: 5 Guys plans for the summer: restaurant: Montana‟s What is your dream Burger & Fries Sleep and hangout with Rib & Chop House college: Pitt What is your favorite friends What is your favorite What do you want to shoe brand: Adidas What is your dream shoe brand: Ariat Cowgirl do when you graduate: What is your favorite college: Notre Dame Boots Go to college type of music: Anything What do you want to What is your favorite What is your favorite but country do when you graduate: type of music: Country clothing store: Ameri- Where is your favorite I haven‟t decided yet Where is your favorite can Eagle place to vacation: Go- What is your favorite place to vacation: Ten- be Desert clothing store: Any of nessee Do you have any big them Do you have any big plans for the summer: plans for the summer: Cure cancer Maybe going to Tennes- What is your dream see again. college: Clown college What is your dream col- What do you want to lege: Penn State, I got do when you graduate: accepted! Not be a hobo What do you want to do What is your favorite when you graduate: I clothing store: Kauff- want to turn my dad‟s man‟s farm into a feed mill. What is your favorite clothing store: Rue 21

Page 16 January/February 2014

Mystery Teacher By Katelyn Cogswell This month‟s “Mystery Teacher” chicken salad. Her favorite ani- of six children. She married her has been working at Mercer mal is an English bulldog. Her high school classmate even High School for 15 years. Dur- hobbies are Water-Cising, Cro- though they never even talked ing her high school years she cheting, and spending time with to each other in high school. participated in National Honors her family. Her favorite vacation She was 43 years old the first Society, Student Council, and spot is any warm beach. Her time she flew in an airplane. also Basketball. She attended favorite movies are Tommy Can you guess who this might Indiana University of Pennsyl- Boy, Despicable Me one and be? Are you stumped? Get to vania. She now has two kids. If two, and any of the Winnie the know your teachers better; you you happen to run into her at Poohs. Her teachers growing never know what you might lunch, she would be enjoying up and also her mom were her learn. her favorite meal, a grilled inspiration to teach. So is one Found on page 19.

Weird word: Ocarina? By Erica Schoen

Many people will hear a word but not know what it means. “Ocarina” is a small simple wind instru- ment. However, students at Mercer High School did not think that was the true meaning of the word. This is what some of the students think the word meant: Tina Blake: octopus dancing with maracas Alex Dawson: octopus poetry Sam Phillips: muscle surrounding the lips Beka Falkner octopus doing the macarania Stephanie Suhrie: baby octopus John Schoen: a type of food Caleb Smith: something to do with music Alex VanWoert: a type of dance

Did you know? By: Rebekah falkner

 The largest pumpkin of 2013 weighed 2,032 pounds.  The oldest living person is a man, 123 years old.  The average elephant weighs 8,000 pounds.  A penguin can live up to 20 years.  The largest shark is 70 feet 20 meters long.  The oldest teacher is 100 years old her name is Agnes Zhelesnik.  The longest tornado lasted 3 and a half hours.  The first Olympics was in 776 BC.  The tallest person in the world is 8 feet, 3 inches.

Dakota Christy is stunned by these facts he never knew...

Page 17 Hoofbeats

Double Caramel Pecan Cheesecake Bars By Cailee Murray 1 1/2 cups NABISCO Graham Cracker Crumbs 1 cup coarsely chopped PLANTERS Pecans, divided 2 tablespoons granulated sugar 1/4 cup butter, melted 4 (8 ounce) packages PHILADELPHIA Cream Cheese, sof- tened 1 cup firmly packed brown sugar 2 tablespoons flour 1/2 cup BREAKSTONE'S or KNUDSEN Sour Cream 1 tablespoon vanilla 3 eggs 1 (14 ounce) bag KRAFT Caramels, divided 2 tablespoons water, divided Directions Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Line 13x9-inch baking pan with foil, with ends of foil extending over sides of pan. Mix graham crumbs, 1/2 cup of the pecans, the granulated sugar and butter; press firmly onto bottom of prepared pan. Bake 10 min. Beat cream cheese, brown sugar and flour in large bowl with electric mixer until well blended. Add sour cream and vanilla; mix well. Add eggs, one at a time, mixing on low speed after each addi- tion just until blended. Place 36 of the caramels in microwaveable bowl. Add 1 Tbsp. of the wa- ter. Microwave on HIGH 1 min. or until caramels are completely melted when stirred. Add to cream cheese batter; stir until well blended. Pour over crust. Bake 40 min. or until center is almost set. Sprinkle with remaining 1/2 cup pecans. Cool completely. Refrigerate at least 4 hours. Place remaining caramels in microwaveable bowl. Add remaining 1 Tbsp. water. Microwave on HIGH 1 min. or until caramels are completely melted when stirred. Drizzle over cheesecake; let stand until firm. Use foil handles to remove dessert from pan before cutting into bars to serve.

Memories in a Jar By Alex Dawson Have you ever opened up an old scrap book and gazed at the pictures inside wishing you could have pictures that looked aged and held good memories instead of just crisp new print-outs from your photo center? Look no fur- ther than a mason jar and vegetable oil. To create a beautiful and unique shelf ornament or table center simply fill a jar with vegeta- ble oil (or olive oil depending on the hue you prefer) and insert the picture. The oil will saturate the picture and give it a clear and fragile look that used to be specific to only vintage pictures. Add- ing dried flowers to your jar can also make a more unique frame for your picture or to preserve more memories of that special day. Although this process does take up a mason jar amount of space it is most certainly a fun and different way to keep your special moments displayed for all to see.

Page 18 Through the Looking January/February 2014 Glass A = 6 B = 9 C = 3 Ummmm, ummm Good! By Tina Blake D = 10 Doughnut sale sheets and POD teacher. Each school, prom and all oth- E = 1 were flowing around the student was given a min- er future expenses for F = 4 halls of MHS recently imum of six boxes to the upcoming senior G = 7 due to the annual Junior sell. A box contained a year. The number of H = 11 Class doughnut sale. dozen doughnuts. If doughnuts sold also will I = 2 This fundraiser started each student met their affect the student‟s cost J = 5 on Thursday, January goal, then the class for going to Cedar Point K = 8 30, 2014, and ended on would also meet its goal at the end of the school Friday, February 7, and the event would be year. Mystery Teacher 2014. This gave the stu- considered successful.. Kendra Walker, a jun- Mrs. Gilmore dents eight days to sell There was only one ior, was unable to sell to all their hungry friends type of doughnut being any doughnuts. Even and relatives and others sold, what was the origi- though she did not sell wishing to break all the nal Krispy Kreme glazed any, she did enjoy the diet rules. doughnut. These sale and the smell in the For approximately the doughnuts were priced building was amazing past ten years the Junior at $7.00 a dozen. All the entire day. Amanda class has been selling the money that was Valesquez sold18 doz- these sweet, sticky, made will be used to pay en throughout the warm round doughy for various Junior Class course of the sale. “It teats. Before the dough- projects. These projects was a lot of fun,” ex- nuts there was the fund- include the annual class claimed Amanda. raiser of hoagies, ac- breakfast held on the Amanda also thought cording to Miss Merri- morning of graduation, the sale went very well. lynn Giles, class advisor their class gift to the What do these items have in common?

Come to MHS April 3,4,5 and seePage 19 B C

A D E F

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4 1 5 2 3 ANWSERS FOUND ON PAGE 19.

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