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WHS to host Financial Aid Night

ON TUESDAY JANUARY 8TH 2013 THERE WILL BE A FINANCIAL AID NIGHT FOR PARENTS OF 11TH AND 12TH GRADE STUDENTS. BRYAN HOWARD THE DIRECTOR OF FINANCIAL AID FROM JCC WILL BE IN THE HIGH SCHOOL LIBRARY TO SPEAK ABOUT HOW TO PAY FOR COLLEGE. ONE OF THE PRIMARY TALKING POINTS WILL BE FAFSA FORMS! THE MEETING WILL BE FROM 6:30 TO 7:30 WITH TIME FOR PARENT QUESTIONS. PLEASE CONTACT MR. SMITH AT 517-841-8276 WITH QUESTIONS.

Wrestlers loose close match to a strong Mason squad

    At Mason last night the wrestlers were down, 21-3, before Trent Hullett's upset major decision of Rylen Deroscha. This win gave the team a renewed energy, as  Deroscha was ranked 8th in the state and Hullett dominated the match from start to finish on his way to a 10-1 victory.
    Tanner Jewell had Western's only win in the first five weight classes.
    "When Blayne Kerstetter and Tyler Ebersole lost I didn't think we could win the meet.  I thought we needed both of those wins from two of my better wrestlers, " Coach Hoffman said.
    Brady Hoffman kept things going in the right direction with a pin at 215 pounds.
    Western was down 33-13 after the 285 pound match but stormed back with pins from Spencer Plate and Brock Hoffman at 102 and 112 pounds, respectively.
    Freshman Noah Burk had a huge 11-8 win at 119 pounds to put the Panthers within striking distance.    
    Down 28-33 with two weight classes left the Panthers went 6-6 and lost 34-39 to Mason. The preseason favorite to win the CAAC, Mason was ranked 7th in the state.
    Afterwards, Coach Hoffman put the loss in perspective, saying his team is "on the right track. They felt good about being in the match, but know that we let it slip away.  They're disappointed with the loss and that's a good thing," Hoffman said.
    JV winners for Western were Colton Parker, Ben Marshall, Cade Shushok, Roman Withrow, David Gazlay, Patrick Harris, Steven Stokely, and Devin Welter.  

Update on NHS collection for Sandy Hook Elementary

According to Mr. Nicolai, the National Honor Society has raised just over $200 for Sandy Hook Elementary.
"If we could collect another $50 today and tomorrow, that would be great," he said.

A note to seniors, from the yearbook staff:

SENIORS--you slacked so we did our best. Please check the senior pages in the hall in front of Ms. Sponsler's room and read the orange poster for details. If you want a different picture or your name isn't correct, please let her know during FIRST or SEVENTH HOUR when a yearbook staffer can help get it fixed.

These pages are not done, but on Friday Dec 21st they will be! Act now!

NHS raising funds for Sandy Hook families

The National Honor Society is collecting money from students to sent to the fund set up for Sandy Hook Elementary School. To contribute, look for Mr. Nicolai and his big water bottle.

Boys basketballers beat buzzer for win at Eaton Rapids

The boys Varsity basketball team defeated Charlotte Friday night 46-44.  Will Knickerbocker hit a 3-point basket with 3.5 seconds left to give the Panthers the victory.
Isaiah Ingles led the way with 16 points, seven steals and four assists. Will Knickerbocker had 13 points and Ryan Conklin added 11 points and eight rebounds.  The Panthers are off until the 27th when they host Springport in the Panther Holiday Classic.

Hockey: game notes

Lost Friday night to Eastside 2-1

Goal - Josh Mathias
Assist - Bryce Shaughnessy
Saves - Jake Waggener (22)

Beat Holt Saturday night 2-0

Goals - Josh Mathias, Landon Hollow
Assists - Matt Stamler (2), Landon Hollow
Saves - Jake Waggener (28)

Logan Everett received a game disqualification Saturday night and will sit out the next two games.

Wrestlers take 3rd at Cardinal Classic, Jewel keeps winning

Western senior Tanner Jewel is pronounced a winner earlier this season at the Jackson Area Wrestling Showdown, hosted at Jackson High School. Jewel remains undefeated.

 
     Tanner Jewel kept his undefeated season alive after finishing 5-0 at the Cardinal Classic in Coldwater over the weekend. Jewell improved his record to 11-0 and helped the wrestlers to a 3rd place finish in the 10 team tournament.
     Western finished 2nd in their pool after defeating Coldwater 47-25, Sturgis 42-26, and Chelsea 42-30.        They then lost to Hastings 22-46 to set up a rematch with Eaton Rapids for 3rd place. The Panthers had defeated Eaton Rapids by only two points earlier in the season and were able to hold off the Greyhounds this time, 40-27.
     On the day, Brock Hoffman, Chase Veydt, Tyler Ebersole, Trent Hullett, and Brady Hoffman were 4-1, while Austin Catt was 3-2.  Blayne Kerstetter was 3-0.  The grapplers are 9-2 this season. Western will compete against Mason on Wednesday.

Key Club announcements

Key Clubbers!  If you signed up to ring the bell this week for the Salvation Army....PLEASE check on your time slot and BE SURE to show up on time for your shift. Names and times are posted in Mrs. Mayotte's room.

ALSO....The Key Club will be Christmas Caroling at the Faith Haven Retirement home THIS THURSDAY at 3:30 p.m.  Anyone is welcome to join us.  Key Club is open to everyone every Thursday :)   If you have a good voice and a free hour, you should think about joining us!

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     In other news, Mr. Nicolai saw a shooting star this morning. "It traveled from the west to the northeast," he said.

Sub-varsity basketball teams beat Charlotte

The girls JV basketball team brought a win home from Charlotte, beating the Orioles 35-30.
Meanwhile, at home, the boys freshman and JV basketball teams also beat Charlotte.

Sophomore tee shirts available from Mrs. Smart

Sophomores ~

Those of you that have ordered t-shirts ~ good news - they are in and may be picked up in Mrs. Smart's room!

Those of you that have not ordered ~ more good news - you, too, can order one of your very own by seeing Mrs. Smart or Mrs. Bogdanski.

As soon as we have a substantial order, we will place another one.  If you want one of the few t-shirts without names on them that are available, see Mrs. Smart.

Great link for student videographers

How to Shoot Video from a Smartphone Like a Pro - 10,000 Words

Western pins Titans

 Western senior Trent Hullett works to pin his opponent Wednesday night at Lumen Christi. The Panthers defeated their CAAC rival, 46-27.

Tanner Jewell got the decision to give the wrestlers an early lead against conference rival, Lumen Christi on Wednesday night.  Tyler Ebersole kept the momentum going with a redemption win against Chris Cooper. Ebersole had lost to Cooper just four days earlier at JAWS.
Lumen Christi took the lead, 15-10 at 189 pounds but Western reeled off 18 consecutive points with pins from Brady Hoffman, Austin Catt, and Brock Hoffman. Western didn't look back and defeated Lumen 46-27. Other winners for Western were Zak Smith, Tade Price, Chase Veydt, and Trent Hullett .
Western is 5-1 overall and 2-0 in the conference.

The JV wrestlers won six of 10 matches against Lumen Christi.  Winners were Noah Clemons, Spencer Plate, Cade Shushok, Nick Brewer,  Alex Tomblin, and Austin Marks.

Those students who were camp counselors at Warner Elementary, please turn in your parent permission slips for the Dec. 20th event at Warner.

WHS students pledge positivity

    After viewing a three-screen presentation, students pledged to make positive change.

I PLEDGE:

• to respect myself and value others.
• to take a stand against bullying.
• to listen more and talk less.
• to be less critical and more positive.
• to recognize the accomplishments of others
• to accept those different from me.
• to be a part of the solution.

Senior t-shirt orders have been moved to next Friday the 21st. gracias

Wrestling bus will leave for Lumen Christi this afternoon at 4:45 p.m.

Wrestlers should be at the high school, ready to go, at 4:30 p.m.

Basketball team defeats Eaton Rapids

The Boys varsity basketball team picked up its first win of the season and first win in the CAAC in dramatic fashion.  
After leading by 10 in the third quarter Eaton Rapids fought back to take a 3-point lead with 16 seconds to go.  Western then called a timeout and set up a last play and Isaiah Ingles came off a screen and hit Andrew Hanson who hit the game tying 3 point basket to send the game to overtime.  Isaiah Ingles took over in overtime scoring 10 points.  
 Ingles led the way with 26 points and 7 assists and Andrew Hanson had 23 points including 4 three point baskets.  Ryan Conklin did an outstanding job on the boards with 13 rebounds.  The boys basketball team travels to Charlotte on Friday night.

The pink ACT vouchers must be turned in by Friday morning at 7:35 AM in order for students to participate in the drawing.

JUNIORS WHO TOOK THE ACT:
THE GIFT CARD DRAWLING WILL BE ON FRIDAY AFTERNOON.  YOU MUST HAVE YOUR PINK SLIP TURNED INTO THE ENVELOPE OUTSIDE OF MRS. CALLENDER'S OFFICE BY 7:35AM ON FRIDAY.

Key Club to make cards, celebrate holidays

Key Club:

Don't forget to bring your art stuff to club on Thursday.  We are making Christmas cards for Veterans while we have our Christmas party.  See the sign-up sheet in Mrs. Mayotte's room to bring a treat to share.

High school students invited to learn more about ‘Making Money Online’

Jackson Community College invites high school students to try out a new college class this winter semester as dual enrolled students earning college credit, with scholarships available to cover the cost.

JCC will offer eCommerce course, ECM 100 Making Money Online, for high school dual enrolled students. The one credit hour course will review what it takes to establish an online business presence, including:

·         Exploration of revenue models;

·         Identifying your target market;

·         Selecting a web presence platform;

·         Developing a web presence;

·         Creating a revenue source.

Two sections of the course will be offered, one fully online and one hybrid that combines online with two meetings at JCC’s North Campus site. There will be 44 seats available, and scholarships will be offered first come, first served. The course will begin in March and run through

JV play auditions this week

Auditions for the JV play, Dirty Rotten Tricks, will be held on Wednesday from 2-5 and Thursday from 3-5 in the auditorium.  This is limited to 9th and 10-th grade students.  Please see Grace Coffey or Mr. Dyer if you have any questions.

Freshmen interested in participating in the Snowfest class competition - there will be a meeting during Power Play next Wednesday.

Meeting is in Ms Clark's art room.

Math lab will be closed on Tuesday due to a teaching staff meeting.

Math Lab will reopen on Thursday of this week.

Wrestling team takes second place at JAWS

Brock Hoffman, Tanner Jewell, Trent Hullett and Brady Hoffman were 4-0, helping Western finish in second place at the 13 team Jackson Area Wrestling Showdown on Saturday.  
Western defeated Grass Lake 47-25, Lumen Christi 51-27, and Jackson 54-21 and lost to Manchester 44-20.  Chase Veydt was 3-1, while Noah Burk, Patrick Harris, and Austin Catt were 2-2.  Noah Gazlay was 2-0.  The wrestlers are 4-1 this season. 

Hockey team wins two

Beat Patriots 8-2 on Friday

Goals - Jim Cook, Landon Hollow, Tom Holleque, Matt Stamler, Josh Mathias, Gabe Hendrickson, Bryce Shaughnessy, Billy Bonser

Assists - Stamler (2), Cook, Hollow, Holleque, Mathias, Hendrickson, Shaughnessy, Zack Surber

Saves - Jake Waggener (11)

Beat AA Skyline 2-1 on Saturday

Goals - Grant Denton, Surber

Assists - Logan Everett, Rourke Carroll

Saves - Waggener (19)

PSAT test results can be picked up from SRC

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JV and freshman girls basketball teams lose to Mason

The JV Girls lost to Mason 31-20.
The girls had an outstanding defensive effort but struggled to score, their record is now 1 win and 2 losses. The team was led by Lauren Wade with 8 points and 7 rebounds, Sarah Clark had 3 points and 4 steals, Cassidy Pluta led in assist with 2 and also had 4 rebounds, Kaite Wilkins had 5 rebounds and 2 blocked shots. Laura Holton played a strong defensive game had 2 steals and 5 rebounds. The girls have 2 away games next week; Tuesday at Eaton Rapids and Thursday at Charlotte.

 The freshman girls basketball team battled a tough Mason team last night and lost 56-24. 
Western played a solid first half defensively, but the physically bigger and stronger Mason Bulldog team was more than the Panthers could handle for four quarters. 
The Panthers were led in scoring by Jessica Claar and Alexa Marston who each had 7.  Sierra Griffith added five points and Katelyn Gebhardt had 3.  Grace Archer displayed a lot of toughness in a noteworthy individual defensive effort.”

Frosh win, JV lose to Mason in boys Basketball

The freshmen boys basketball team defeated Mason last night 49 to 29.  11 players scored, leading the way was Austen Cooper with 15, Michael Rauch and Jacob Lefevre each score 7 points.

The JV boys basketball team defeated Mason last evening.  The Panthers played great defense and out rebounded Mason.  Timmy Mayotte scored 21 points and Easton Oliver scored 9.

Wrestling team takes Eaton Rapids in CAAC opener

The wrestling team was down by ten points to Eaton Rapids with three of their best wrestlers left.  Coach Hoffman couldn't have asked for a better scenario.
"We had two captains and one of my best upper classman left to wrestle and were down by 10.  It was going to be tough but I liked my chances with those three studs left to wrestle," Hoffman said.
Team captain Tanner Jewell led the charge and cut the deficit to 7 with a 4-0 decision over Blaine Milheim of Eaton Rapids.  Coach Hoffman had bumped Blayne Kerstetter and Tyler Ebersole each up a weight class to make room for Jewell.  Kerstetter couldn't quite get the fall in the second period and hung on to an 8-2 victory, cutting the deficit to four points.  Ebersole needed a 15 point decision or a pin for the panthers to get the win.  Ebersole was up 4-2 in the second period when he locked up a cradle, his signature move, and the panther's won the dual 36-34 to a raucous crowd at Eaton Rapids High School.
"When Ebersole put his opponent on his back everybody knew it was over.  It was just a matter of time," Hoffman said.
Aaron White started Western off with a victory followed by a pin from captain, Trent Hullett to get the panthers rolling 9-0.  Other winners for Western were Brady Hoffman(215 lbs), Brock Hoffman(103 lbs), and Spencer Plate(112 lbs.)

Sophomores: don't be all right angles and equidistant sides

All sophomore class representatives are asked to attend a meeting in Mrs. Smart's room after school Friday to discuss fund raising events and Snow Fest. Please make every effort to attend this important meeting. If you are unable to attend see Mrs. Bogdanski or Mrs. Smart. Be there or be square!

Softball meeting Thursday

Any female interested in playing softball this spring.  There will be a meeting on THURSDAY right after school in the cafeteria. We will be discussing our winter workouts plan.

If you're thinking softball in the spring, please come to the 15 minute meeting.

Boys basketball loses at Tecumseh

The Varsity Boys basketball team lost its opener to Tecumseh 61-46. 
 Western got off to a great start leading 18-5 at the end of the first quarter, but struggled after that solving Tecumseh's zone Defense.  Isaiah led the way offensively tossing in 14 points and dishing out 5 assists.  Andrew Hanson chipped in with 13 points and Ryan Conklin added 12 points and 10 boards.  Western will host Mason for its league opener on Friday night at 6 p.m.

The JV boys lost their season opener last night against Tecumseh.  
The team played a solid first half and trailed by three at half time.  It was a balanced team effort offensively, we had 11 players score.  Brandt Parshall led the way with 6, Brennan Joseph and Easton Oliver each scored 5 points.  Our next game is tomorrow night at Mason starting at 7 p.m.

The freshmen boys basketball team lost their season opener last night against Tecumseh.  
The team played hard for 32 minutes.  Austin Cooper lead the team with 16 points.  Jacob Inosencio scored 6 and Michael Rauch had 5 points.  Our next game is tomorrow night at Mason at 5:30.

Juniors!! Prom meeting. After school Thursday. Be there! Picking colors for invites and tickets!

Dual enrollment interest meetings next Thursday

Students interested in dual enrollment for second semester or next year should meet with JCC and SAU next Thursday in the high school conference room during  both lunches.

ACT advice for those taking the test:

Many of you are taking an ACT test this Saturday at various high school testing sites.  Good for you!  This will be an important practice test for you in preparation for the MME test in March!

 

Please listen to these very, very important reminders as ACT test supervisors MUST follow these rules:

 

1.  You MUST have your full page admission letter with you or you will not be allowed in the testing site.

 

2. You MUST have a picture i.d. with you or you will not be allowed in the testing site.

 

3. You may NOT have a cell phone on OR visible or  you. will.  be.  sent.  home! 

    Leave your cell phones OFF and out of sight   OR   do not take your cell phone in to the testing site at all.

 

 

Finally: If you would like to be included in the drawing for Best Buy gift cards, have your pink slip signed by a test supervisor and

        return it to Mrs.Callender.  If you need a pink slip to take with you on Saturday, see Mrs. Callender.

Gymnastics team beats Tecumseh at home in season opener

   In their first meet of the season, the Western Gymnastics team defeated Tecumseh High School.
   Western won the meet with a final score of 113.05 to 112.375. This was definitely a close meet, but the girls pulled through, finished strong and got the win.
    Kelli Hoffman took first in the All-Around with a score of 30.775, first on Vault with an 8.3, first on Bars with a 8.0, and tied for second on Floor with a 7.625. Rachel Macchia took third place in the All-Around with a 28.75, second on vault with a 8.25, and third on bars with a 6.125. Hannah Wilson took third on Beam with a 7.15 and Jenna Grannan received third on Floor with a 7.425. Other great performances were done by Karissa Huss, Katie Collier, Lindsey Cochrane, Laura Cochrane, Veronica Fritz, Alexis Schneider, Cierra Churchwell, Alexis Rankin, and Megan Carroll.

Student Council provides Toys for Tots update

 

Here are a few updates on Toys for Tots!

1.  Boxes will be delivered during 3rd hour today. 
2.  There is a $5 mininum for toys (orig.retail price...if it's on sale, that's cool).  It seems counter to our purpose to buy a bunch of junk toys just to win a pizza party, ya know?
3.  The collection will go through next Friday, December 14th. 

Thanks!  As always, feel free to contact Mrs. Sharp or Mrs. Shore with questions or concerns. 

sophomore shirts will be ordered on friday. take money to Mrs.Smart. $12 without name. $15 with name

Basketball student section name and t-shirt design selected

The votes are in and tallied.

The Maroon Platoon will go full force, seeking to win the award for being the Best Student Section in the Jackson area, as decided by JTV.

The winning idea was submitted by senior Taylor Johnston. She will be awarded a $20 gift card to Best Buy.

Students can begin ordering t-shirts on Monday.

Spread the Word

This week's Hemisphere Upload was edited by Taylor Ford, Danialle Baumgartner, Mara Chalfant, Joel Cochran, Nathan Herrick and Kody Lowe.

The Pride needs seniors' portraits by Monday, Dec. 3

Please remember to have your senior and baby pictures in to the yearbook staff following Thanksgiving Break--Dec. 3 is the deadline. 
Senior pictures must be appropriate for school (meet dress code). Vertical poses work best -- though editorial staff of The Pride will accept any pose.

Pics can be submitted by hard copy, disk, thumb drive or even emailed to  erika.sponsler@westernschools.org.

Herff Jones orders due Tuesday, Dec, 4

ATTENTION SENIORS: It's time to order your cap and gown and graduation announcements.

Herff Jones distributed pricing and informational packets to seniors on Tuesday, Nov. 27. They will return on Tuesday, Dec. 4 during lunches to pick up orders.

Save yourself both time and money and don't forget to place your order when they're here.

Freshman vision screening to happen Wednesday, Dec. 12

Wednesday, December 12th, the Jackson County Health Department will be on campus for its annual vision screening of 9th graders.  They will also screen other students if there is a parental or teacher concern.  Parents may contact the high school office if they would like their 10th, 11th or 12th grader's vision checked.

Hockey update

lost to the Kalamazoo Eagles 2-1

Goal - Andru Maynard
Assist - Landon Hollow
Saves - Jake Waggener (31)

Toys for Tots competition to begin next Monday.

    Student Council is pleased to kick off the Toys for Tots collection beginning next week MONDAY in your 4TH HOUR CLASSES.
    This is an awesome opportunity to do good in our own community!
    This year, we will be competing in TEAMS based on your fourth hour teacher.  The team that collects the most toys per student will win a pizza party.  Here is the list of teams:

1. Team 1: Cuevas, Dyer, Ford
2. Team 2: K Messer, Glassel, Marks
3. Team 3: Kim, Prus, Mayotte
4. Team 4: Rapert, Farrier, Kamke
5. Team 5: Huntley, Rissi, Abbee
6. Team 6: Whedon, Haughey, Bogdanski
7. Team 7: J Messer, Baum, Clark, Nicolai
8. Team 8: Klassen, E Sponsler, Sharp, Benner
9. Team 9: Conrad, Genco, Powers
10. Team 10: L Sponsler, Kalahar, Ennis
11. Team 11: Zeitler, Rudland, Meredith

    Talk to your teammates, form a strategy, and GET COLLECTING! 
    Thanks for all you do and for supporting student council as we seek to help our community during this season.
     If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to contact Mrs. Sharp or Mrs. Shore.

Customized car decals available for order

Go to the Athletic Office to get an order form for a sport-specific decal with your name on it. These are the kind of stickers you see on people's cars.

Voting on the basketball student section t-shirt closes today

Several options are posted on the Athletic Office window; go inside the office to vote.

Overdue library books haunt several students

Students whose names are on the list of those with overdue library books need to square up with the library, ASAP.

Fleece tie blankets to be made after school in cafeteria

After school Wednesday Miss Patronik and Miss Pack will be making fleece tie blankets to donate to the Interfaith Shelter.
"Bring you friends," Miss Pack said. "There will be free food. We look forward to seeing you there."

Quiz bowl participants invited to endo of season party.

During power play tomorrow, Quiz Bowl team members will celebrate their season's successes in Room 209. The invitation is also extended to any Key Club members who helped keep time and score.

Vote today for student section t-shirt and slogan

Options are posted in the Athletic Office window.

Jackson United hockey team drops two

Lost Friday to New Boston Huron 4-3
Goals - Gabe Hendrickson, Andru Maynard, Billy Bonser
Assists - Logan French, Nathan Baryo
Saves - Jake Waggener (20)

Lost Saturday to Walled Lake Western 3-2
Goals - Billy Bonser, Matt Stamler
Assists - Matt Stamler, Grant Denton
Saves - Jake Waggener (21)

Girls basketball program looking for filmer

If any student is interested in some community service hours, the girls basketball program needs someone to film their games. Stop down to the athletic office for more information.

Spread the Word, Turkey.

 

These are the student-produced video announcements for Western High School, in Jackson County, Mich.

Tomorrow is Hat Day

Just a reminder that Hat Day is this upcoming Tuesday, ^Nov. 20. Each teacher that has a first hour class will be receiving an envelope either before or after school. This envelope will have instructions for the day and pieces of yarn. If a student pays the dollar to wear a hat, they MUST wear a piece of yarn. This is uniform, so the teachers will be able to easily tell if the student has paid. 

More senior information

Seniors, if you want a senior t-shirt get a form from your English teacher. The cost is $13 and the form is due to Mrs. Male no later than Dec. 14.

Make sure you go to Mrs. Male’s room to sign the transfer signature sheet that will go on the senior t-shirt, regardless if you get a t-shirt or not.

Senior meeting to happen Nov. 27

Tuesday, Nov. 27, at 8:30 a.m. is the seniors' first meeting with Herff Jones on graduation “stuff”.

Winter strength traing program to begin Nov. 26

Off season ^athletes are you ready to workout?

 

A Unified Weight Training Program will start on Monday, Nov. 26.  It is sponsored and organized by the Athletic Department and coaches.

 

Any athlete grades 7 thru 12 in any sport!!

 

We will meet by the high school cafeteria at 2:45pm Monday after Thanksgiving Break (Monday, Nov. 26).

 

The program will run on Mondays and Fridays from 2:45pm to 4pm. Wednesdays from 1:45pm to 3pm.

 

Questions or concerns stop into the Athletic Office.

Tuesday, Nov. 20, is class color day

Freshmen wear green, Sophomores wear orange, juniors wear blue and seniors wear purple.

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This week's Hemisphere Upload was edited by Alex Blank, Jon Saines, Lamar Dixon, and Dylan Drum.

Today is final opportunity to submit Student Section ideas

Today is students' last chance to get ideas in for the student section contest. Bring creative ideas to the Athletic Office.

 

There is a $20 gift card to Best Buy for the idea that’s voted the winner.

 

Voting will take place Friday outside the Athletic Office.

Hat Day fundraiser happening next Tuesday, Nov. 20

Students who prefer to keep their heads covered when indoors will have the opportunity to do so next Tuesday, but for a fee. For a grand total of $1, each student will be able to wear a had during the school day. Miss Pack and Miss Patronik are raising money to purchase fleece blankets for Jackson's Interfaith Shelter.

Math Lab to be closed until after Thanksgiving

The Math Lab will not be open for its normal Tuesday and Thursday after school hours until after Thanksgiving.

NHS induction ceremony tonight

NHS induction is tonightat 7 p.m. in the auditorium. Unless pre-approved by Mr. Nicolai, inductees not in attendance will be required to reapply next year.

Pretty Swell Panthers announced for November

Western High School is proud of the hundreds of responsible and kind students who come to school day in and day out with a great attitude and admirable work ethic, always prepared for class.  We want our students, their families and our community to know that we appreciate these fine young men and women who may not always receive the recognition that they deserve.  Teachers nominate these conscientious students and they receive a “Pretty Swell Panther” certificate and a Subway gift card.  In addition, all of the students recognized will be entered into a drawing for a $100 cash prize at the end of the school year.

NOVEMBER PRETTY SWELL PANTHERS:

Connor Early, Devin Welter, Isabella Tolsma, Nichole Link, Zane Waggoner

Winter training for female runners

Any girls NOT in a winter sport and who are interested in running track this spring, please meet after school on Monday, Dec. 3, for a meeting with Coach Wilcox regarding winter training.  The meeting should last only about 15 minutes.

Photo for winter sports schedule poster scheduled for Nov. 26

The winter senior poster picture will be taken on Monday, Nov. 26, at 2:10pm in the gym. Senior athletes in winter sports will be dismissed from class at 2:05pm. Please be ready in the gym.

Drivers' education classes available

Students interested in taking Segment One Driver Education: Coach B's Driving School is running a Segment One class at Western High School Starting Monday, Nov. 19. It's not too late to sign up. Forms are available in Mr. Benner's classroom. 

Also, don't forget, the Segment Two class is starting Nov. 26. 

WHS students compete in canned food sculpture competition

The sophomore class wanted to "Fill the Barn" with food.

The Class of 2014 collected 14 cans.

Results of the canned-food drive will be combined with the score from the penny wars to determine which grade level will be awarded cider and donuts.

NHS candidates must turn in applications today

It is crucial that applications be turned in to Mr. Nicolai TODAY.

Football players to meet at lunch in "old" weightroom

Attention all players soph thru Senior who played varsity football this fall there will be a short meeting in the "old" weight room during both lunches MONDAY.

 

Also, Commitment sheets for returning players are due by Thanksgiving.  See Coach Ennis for a sheet or to turn yours in.

Spread the Word

This week's broadcast filmed and edited in its entirety by the Deliverers: Taylor Johnston, Hannah Boyt, Madison Cooper and Alyssa Cinpak.
"Give them due props when you see them," Mr. Sponsler said.

Message to basketball student section:

Hey Students!

 Our Goal: To be the BEST STUDENT SECTION IN JACKSON!  

 The Athletic Department is running a contest to see who could come up with the best Student Section Slogan!!

 We need all ideas and slogans by: Wednesday November 14th at 1:35pm!

 Voting will be Friday, November 16^th at lunch time.

 Winners gets a $20 Gift Card to Best Buy and a free Student Section T-shirt!

 Write down your ideas and bring them to the Athletic Office today!

Academic Boosters looking for help with Craft Show

The Western Academic Boosters are short student volunteers to help set up and work their annual craft show this weekend.  

Students are needed during the 7-9 shift Friday night (helping vendors unload) and the 3-5 shift on Saturday.  They are asking any athletes or other students who aren't busy with sports Friday or Saturday if they would be interested in helping.  They do receive community service hours for helping so that might be an incentive.

Western Drama Club bringing Grease to the stage

Lions Club selling fruits and nuts

   Sharlene Carroll, who works in the Western School District Administration Office, will be taking orders through Nov. 16 for the Parma/Spring Arbor Lions Club Fruit and Nut Sale. 
    Items are listed with prices below.  Folks interested in placing orders should please respond email Mrs. Carroll at Sharlene.Carroll@westernschools.org.  She will need payment by Nov. 30, and delivery scheduled the first week in December.  Checks should be made payable to the Parma/Spring Arbor Lions Club. 

Oranges         10#  $14.00
                          20#  $19.00
                          40#  $27.00
Grapefruit    10#  $14.00
                         20#  $19.00
                         40#  $27.00
Tangelos       10#  $14.00
                         20#  $19.00
                         40#  $27.00
Mixed            10# (6-8 oranges, 5 grapefruit) $14.00
                         20# (16 oranges, 9 grapefruit) $19.00
                         40# (32 oranges, 18 grapefruit) $27.00
3 in 1              (12 oranges, 12 grapefruit, 12 tangelos) $27.00
Nuts             1# bags of whole cashews OR pecans OR mixed nuts $ 9.00 per bag

Transitional weight room available to classes, sports teams

In an email message to coaches and teachers Athletic Director Jason Porter announced that strength training can resume in what was once the "high tech" classroom in the middle school. The text of his message is reprinted below.

The weight room is open for business!  When you get the opportunity please go down to the “Make-Shift Weight Room” by the Middle School Cafeteria and check to see if you have access (keys) that work to get in to it.  If not please let Tonya or myself know as soon as possible. 

There are some stipulations on the weight room that you should know about:

1. No student athletes are to park back by the weight room.  They are to park in front of the middle school or Admin building and walk back to the weight room.
2. No student or athlete is to be let into the weight room to lift without “Coaching” or “Teacher” Supervision.  I stress this because this is NOT a community weight room at this time.  So parents and graduated alumni are not allowed to use it or supervise current Western Athletes.  Coaches have already asked about lifting before and after school and this rule applies at all times.
3. There has been a created lane in the weight room leading from one door to another and to the shop class.  This lane needs to stay open and handicap accessible at all times.  Their can be nothing obstructing this lane. 
4. All equipment needs to be re-racked and put away, lights shut off and doors locked after each and every use.  Coaches are responsible for this at all times as well as PE Teachers, this is not negotiable and needs to be done
5. PE Teachers and Coaches please stress to your students and athletes the importance of the type of conversation and language being used in the weight room by your students, as well as the type of music that is played along with the explicit language content.  There are classrooms close by and impressionable youth and we don’t want to send the wrong message about what Western High School and its Athletic Department are about.

Landon Hollow all-state in tennis

Congratulations to Landon Hollow for being selected to the 2012 Division 3 All-State Tennis Team! A big congratulations on a great year and great career at Western High School.

Yearbook class to distribute senior packets 7th hour today

Yearbook will bring packets for seniors to their 7th hour classes today. These are only for seniors and are due to us Friday. Teachers are not being asked to allow class time for students to complete the packets. Perhaps they could do that during PowerPlay if they have the time.

Students with NO 7th hr will have them delivered either 1st or 3rd hr today or tomorrow.

Sunday's Hello, Yeti! brings bikers, runners to Western Nature Trail

   The Western Nature Trail was host today to the first running of the Hello, Yeti! Klunker-Cross & Trail Run.

     "Everything went impressively well," Western Middle School track coach Jim Rissi said. 

     Forty-seven competitors took their pick of three options: a 30-minute cyclocross race, a five-kilometer trail run, or, for the hearty few, both. 

     Winning the multi-sport event was Marshall Randall, a Western High School alumnus who now lives in Grand Rapids. He second second in the cyclocross and and second the trail run.

     Typically, a cyclocross race is contested on a course a mile or less in length, with a variety of terrains and barriers. Riders race to complete as many laps as possible in a set amount of time. For the Klunker-Cross, riders finished whatever lap they were on at the 30-minute mark.        

      Klunker-Cross winner Ed Millenaar, of Sarnia, Ontario, was the only rider to complete seven laps.

Derek Easton completes a flying dismount as he approaches a barrier on the Klunker-Cross course.

     Trail Run winners were Katsune Nakashima among the women, and Ashten Griswald among the men.

     "It felt good out there today," Griswald said. "It was just cold enough, and I like running on the trail."

     Competitors and spectators alike had positive things to say about the overall experience.

     "For this being the first time, it went really well," multi-sport competitor Dustin Burdick said. "The drums and cowbells were super sweet. You could hear them no matter where you were on the course."

Seth Amburgey, Jack Tallman, and Gabe Rowlison, members of Western High School's drumline, perform during the Hello, Yeti!

     After covering expenses associated with organizing the event, the Western Runners Club will donate proceeds to the Melanoma Research Foundation.

     "Melanoma is a sneaky skin cancer," varsity track and field coach Lucas Sponsler said. "The key is catching it early. So it's important people know what to look for, and don't hesitate to have any weird moles or lumps checked out."

     Sponsler said the lives of several Western athletes and coaches have been touched by skin cancer. "It became clear we needed to do something extra."

     Burdick said he and his fiance, Courtney Head, who ran the 5k, would have participated regardless, to support the MRF, but, "it was just plain fun."

     

Special thanks to the sponsors listed in the above photo, who provided materiel and financial support. Especially deserving of recognition are Corey Grazul of P&T Fitness, who withstood the brisk November air to provide free tune-ups and pit repairs to bike racers, Dan Powell of Portland Desgin Works, who donated the PDX Beanies and other goodies, and Courtney and Dustin Burdick, of Jackson Coffee Co., for keeping us warmly caffeinated.
 Thanks also to volunteers like Parker Brue, Alex Sponsler, Sean Burns, Hannon Morgan, Dave Cole, Jacob Sponsler, Colby Sharp, Linda Scholl, Cole Sharp, Ralph Rice, Ben Engelter, Kristin Kiebler, Mike and Martha Palmer, and everyone else who made this event a success. This fall's Yeti Committee consisted of Jim Rissi, Alaina Sharp, and Lucas Sponsler.

Results of senior class voting announced, meetings planned

Results of Senior Class Voting:

Color-Purple

Flower-Venus Fly Trap

Song-Whenever You Remember -Carrie Underwood

Motto-"Hakuna Matata"

 

Seniors-There will be a class meeting Friday Nov. 9, after school in Profe Male's classroom to design senior shirts. Bring your ideas.

Drummers funky drumma drummin at the Percussion Concussion

On Saturday, Nov. 3, the drum line will perform in the Percussion Concussion in Jackson at the Michigan Theater. Western will be competing against several other schools' drum lines and will take the stage at 11:30 a.m. Tickets are $10 at the door.

Western Runners Club to raise money for cancer research

 Taking inspiration from the IRONMAN Triathlons and the various Warrior Dash/Tough Mudder-type runs, the Western Runners Club is organizing a multi-sport event this Sunday on the Western Nature Trail.
The first part is a bike race on a course less than one mile long. Racers will try to finish as many laps as possible in a 30-minute time period. The second part of the event is a five kilometer trial run. Racers can compete on bike, on foot, or both.
In addition to being loads of fun for participants and spectators alike, the event will raise money for the Melanoma Research Foundation.  MRF and IRONMAN work together to raise funds to help research ways to combat this most deadly of skin cancers.
Spectators are invited to ring cowbells, join in with the drum circle, and provide good-natured heckling.

Class color day to celebrate the end of the marking period.

On Thursday, Nov. 1, students are encouraged to wear class colors. Ninth grade is green, 10th is orange, 11th is blue and 12th is purple. The teachers are to wear their Maroon Western Jerseys if they have them or WHS wear.

Attention Key Clubbers:

Don’t forget to bring your rakes and WARM clothes and gloves for the annual Rake and Run on THIS THURSDAY, November 1.  You can drop off rakes to Mrs. Mayotte’s room before school.  We will start right after school and we will be done by dinner! 

Western Runners Club seeking volunteers

The Western Runners Club is seeking volunteers to help with Sunday's Hello, Yeti! bike race and trail run. Helpers are needed Friday afternoon and Sunday during the event. See Mr. Rissi, Ms. Sharp, or Mr. Sponsler for details.

CX team banquet Nov. 7

All member of the WHS Cross-Country teams, your awards banquet will take place on Wednesday, November 7th at 6 pm in the high school cafeteria.  Please bring your clean uniform to turn in at this time.  See Coach Sharp if you have questions or want to sign up to bring food to the event.

Kellar dashes her way to being All-County

Congratulations to junior Mackenzie Kellar for earning All-County Honors at the J Chris Jensen Memorial Cross-Country Race.  Mackenzie finished 10th overall and will be honored at the Jensen Banquet next week.

Competitive cheer try outs for grades 9-12

 Competitive cheer try outs for grades 9-12

 

November 5th-7th from 6-8 p.m.

November 8th is 6-8:30 p.m.

The high school small gym.

 

Girls  have a current physical on file to try out. Check with Chris Cowan.

Bowling meeting Nov. 6.

There will be a girls and boys bowling coaches/student/parents meeting Tuesday, Nov. 6, at 6:30 p.m. in the high school cafeteria. Anyone interested in bowling should attend.

Freshmen – please bring cans to the art room and plan to stay and help create the sculpture on Monday, Nov. 5 after school.

Wrestling conditioning to begin Monday

If you are interested in wrestling this year, conditioning begins Monday Nov. 5th after school in the cafeteria.  Make sure you have a physical on file with the Athletic Department.

Community service opportunity

The Babies to ABC's Expo will focus on resources and fun activities for families and young children.
Sponsored by Great Start and American , they need extra volunteers to help staff the event on Saturday, Nov. 3. Volunteers are needed from 9 to 3pm.

The event will be held at the American 1 Fair Events Center.

Ruff 'N' Tuff happening tonight

Come out tonight to support either the Junior Boys or the Senior boys as they take part in the annual Rough – N - Tuff volleyball match.  The cost is $3 to get in and the event starts at 7:30 in the high school gym.

Girls Basketball conditioning will start at 5:15 in the small gym & move to MS gym @ 5:45.  You will be done in time for Ruff and Tuff.

Varsity Football Players need to see Mr. Ennis to vote on MVP and Rod Phipps Most Valuable Lineman Award.

 

Awards night for all football players is next Monday night in the auditorium at 7pm.  Tell your parents.

Spread the Word

Hemisphere Upload Oct 26

Football awards night Nov. 5

Football Awards Night will be Nov. 5th at 7pm in the auditorium.  All athletes should dress appropriately in a collared shirt and tie if possible.  Varsity athletes need to see Coach Ennis to vote on MVP and Rod Phipps (Most Valuable Lineman) Awards. 

 

Also all athletes need to turn in any remaining equipment they have.  They will be billed for anything out after Friday.

Volleyball loses to Ionia

The varsity volleyball team suffered a defeat against Ionia 16-25, 24-26, 25-13, and 13-25.  
Libby Breton had 6 serving aces, 9 blocks, and 9 kills.  Taylor Johnston added 4 kills and 3 aces.  Alexa Pluta had 5 serving aces and Cheyenne Bolenbaugh had 5 kills.  
The Lady Panthers travel to Eaton Rapids on Tuesday for the first game in the District playoffs against Charlotte.

JV volleyball team beats Ionia

Thursday night Oct. 25, Western JV played Ionia.  Western won 25-10 and 25-23.  Jessica Claar had 6 aces, Cassidy Pluta had 4 kills and Laura Holton had 7 assists.  We had a great night of serving which help us dominate in game 1 and comeback in game 2.  Way to finish the season!  Overall record is 18-13-4.

Cast and crew of Grease, make sure you check out the links on our Facebook page to see video clips from rehearsal. Less than two weeks until opening night!  Practice, practice, practice!

STUDENTS WISHING TO TAKE SEGMENT ONE DRIVERS EDUCATION. COACH BS

DRIVING SCHOOL WILL BE HOSTING A SEGMENT ONE CLASS AT WESTERN

STARTING MONDAY NOVEMBER 19 7-9PM.  SIGN UP FORMS ARE IN

MR. BENNERS ROOM,  COACH B WILL BE HOSTING A SEGMENT TWO CLASS

AS WELL AT WESTERN STARTING MONADY NOVEMBER 26.  ALL CLASSES

WILL BE HELD IN MR. BENNERS ROOM.  EACH CLASS HAS LIMITED SPACE SO

SIGN UP NOW.

Jackson Vikings defeat Panthers in volleyball

The Lady Panthers were defeated by Jackson High 9-25, 19-25, 23-25.  Libby Breton had 5 kills, 4 blocks and served 6 of 7.  Alyssa Cinpak and Taylor Johnston added 4 kills each.  Western will host Ionia on Thursday following the JV and freshman matches.  This will be the Lady Panthers' last home match of the season. 

ROUGH N TUFF PLAYERS PICK UP YOUR SHIRTS after 2nd hour with Ms. Clark – TODAY!

T-shirt sale for Sophomores is extended one more day! Get yours today! See Mrs. Smart for details!

Football announcements

Football players:  All locks need to be removed by the end of the day Tuesday and all equipment turned in by Wednesday.  Any locks left on lockers in the football locker room will be cut off after Tuesday.  We are counting equipment for inventory this week.

 

Also, Trent Hullett's Maroon #15 Jersey is missing from Friday night.  If you see it please return it.

 

Also, weightlifting for next year's football players will begin Monday Oct. 29.  Commitment sheets will be on Coach Ennis' door and are due by Thanksgiving Break.

Will the following students please stop in the office when they get a chance:  Haley Ferris, Victoria Vainner, Jon Saines, Blaze Tavarez, Dallas Olney, Whitney Langston, Amberly Grimes and Emily Giffin.

Hollow gets bye, win, before falling to eventual champ

Landon Hollow, with the support of many of his teammates, traveled to Holland last Thursday night to compete in the Division 3 state tennis tournament. After a great team dinner Thursday night, we awoke to rain Friday and moved indoors for the day. Landon drew a bye the first round and met Max Hartman from Grand Rapids Christian in the second round. After going down 1-4 in both sets, Landon showed some senior grit and determination and rallied back to win the match in straight sets, 6-4, 6-4.

Landon then faced the #1 seed and eventual state champion, Max Fleigner from Detriot Country Day and lost in straight sets, 6-0, 6-0. Max was an amazing player and is not only ranked in the state of Michigan, but nationally as well.

We are awaiting word from the MHSAA on whether Landon earned all-state recognition. Congratulations on a great season and a great career at Western High School Landon!

Ladies XC team takes 6th at CAAC Final

The girls finished 6th on Saturday in the CAAC Gold Championships at Eaton Rapids. Leading the way for the Lady Panthers was junior Mackenzie Kellar, who placed 8th overall with her season's best time, receiving all-conference honors. Sophomore Sydney Nagy finished 19th overall and received all-conference honorable mention. Rounding out the scoring for the Panthers were sophomore Noelle West, freshman Lexi Schupbach, and junior Libby Buckland. Congratulations to those ladies who posted their season's best times on Saturday: freshman Paige Ferris, sophomores Kimmy Berry, Savana Nelson, and Kristin Vann, and senior Kim Cary.