U-TimesMay 2013

Volume 24Issue 4

U. City High School 7401 Balson Ave. University City, MO 63130

NEWS MAGAZINE

Seniors’ Last Words, p 2-4

College Decisions p. 5

Senior Artists p. 6-7

Spring Sports p. 10-11

Scholar Athletes p. 12-13

Meet the Staff p. 14-15

Prom p. 8-9

1. Mrs. Williams 1st Hour World Lit class2. Lafayette Gatewood3. Mar’ Tez Reed, Radaziah Whittington, Madeline Lewis4. Taylor Easley, Jenna McKissic5. Latrale Nolan6. Asia Garrison, George Brown7. Mike Sarber

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2012-2013U-Times Staff

Editors: Lily Lewis-Stump &Alice Mutrux

Web Editor: Carl SechristStaff Writers/Photographers: Kayla HolmesMichael JohnsonEmily LoobyJihira PattonChristine Politte

Samuel PolzinAdriana SmithAndrew WhiteReneise White

AdviserMrs. Mary Williams

PhilosophyThe newspaper’s primary obligation is to inform its readers about events in the school and community and of the issues of national or international

importance which directly or indirectly affect the school population. The newspaper, while serving as a training ground for future journalists as part of the school curriculum, recognizes all rights and responsibilities under the First Amendment. While establishing U-Times as a public forum, student editors will apply professional standards and ethics for decision making as they take on the responsibility for content and production of the newspaper. Inasmuch as the student staff encourages constructive criticism of any part of the newspaper, authority for content rests in the hands of the student members of the newspaper

staff. Students will not publish material considered to be legally unprotected speech, or libel, obscenity, material disruption of the educational process, copyright infringement, or unwarranted invasion of privacy.

Contact UsWe are located in Room 346 at University City High School, 7401 Balson Ave., University City, MO 63130. Our email address is marywilliams@ ucityschools.org. Tweet us @UTimes2012

PoliciesOpinions expressed on the editorial page do not reflect the viewpoints of the school administration. All editorials (unsigned) represent a majority opinion of the Editorial Board. Signed editorials, columns, editorial cartoons, and reviews reflect the views of the author and not necessarily those of the U-Times Editorial Board. The U-Times reserves the right to reject, edit, or shorten letters. Submit letters to Mrs. Mary Williams in Room 346, or to any U-Times staff member, or to marywilliams@ucityschools.org.

AKristie Adams High school was a great experience! Met

a lot of new people through my journey. I’m going to truly miss everyone. From being the most quiet girl during freshman now to a young lady who can’t stop talking in class. Going to college to major in business and minor in dance. Hard work pays off!

Destiny Anderson-BushIn the last four years I have grown so

much, not only as a person but as a performer. I can honestly say U. City

has a special place in my heart. Just stay focused and you’ll realize your dreams are closer than you think. Life is a journey, not a destination.

BParis Billups We came, we saw, we conquered! Time

for real life to begin…

George Brown Have fun while you can. #TungSten

CSammiyah Clay When nothing goes right, go left! Go with

your aspiration in life, but dedication is key in whatever you desire. Best of luck to all my peers and goodbye to my alma maters.

Adrian Collins High school has been real. I

accomplished all I wanted to and I’m off to bigger and better things.

Breana Conner As much as I want to get out of U. City

High School and experience life without high school, I will miss it. I had a lot of ups and downs, but overall, it has made me the person I am today. Now I’m outta here! Fav. Lol we did it! #OTF

DHannah Dallas

U. City, it’s been fun! Stay beautiful.

Grace Deitzler Live long and prosper, U. City.

ETaylor EasleyI bleed black and gold forever. I’m gonna miss high school. It’s time to be grown but despite that, I’ll never forget where I came from. It’s been real. Shout out to class of 2013, AYE!

FEthan FarberThey told me at the beginning of freshman year that high school would be over before I knew it. And surprisingly, they were right. I feel like I signed that Class of 2013 banner only yesterday. And I’m almost positive I had begun middle school only the day before. It’s been quick, but it’s been fun.

Keya FreemanFrom freshman year to now I have learned a lot of things. I have lost and made many friends. By far my freshman year was my most memorable year. My best wishes to my classmates. Shout out to the class of 2013, we did it!!

GMone’t GrantWhen it’s all said and done, only you control your future. Work as hard as you play. Bleed black and gold till I die, I love UCHS and this community; I wouldn’t have wanted to be anywhere else.

HKayla HallBe a leader for ones who want to follow; demonstrate. Set goals for yourself that you know you will not give up on;

determined. Graduate, go to college, find a career; dedicated. The three D’s of life: demonstration, determination, and dedication.

Patrick HartingDon’t follow a path someone else has made; instead, take your own way and leave a trail.

AndreaunnaHawkins Goodbye U. City, freshman year was the best!

Andreielle Hawkinsc/o 2013 We did it!

Allie Hines You may not know this, but I consider myself a bit of a loner. I tend to think of myself as a one-woman wolf pack. But when I brought Merinda home, I knew she was one of my own… And four years ago, when Merinda introduced me to you guys, I thought, “Wait a second, could it be?” and I knew I had just added two more girls to the wolf pack. So tonight, I make a toast.

Zibiah HoskinsDI Zee-Zee 3x for the 1x on the track sista soulja Hopscotch IRunThisYouAreJustADogWalker Swaggie” is up at this PIECE! It’s been real U. City (not really). I don’t know if I’ve been changed for the better but because I know you… because I KNEW YOU. I have been changed… for good.

Eliana Hudson I will miss you, Ben. You’ll go to UMKC. I am Beyond. [Not totally sure what that last word is – begone? Beyond? Beyonce?]

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JQuindara Jackson Accept responsibility for your life. Know that it is you who will get you where you want to go, no one else. Challenges are what make life interesting, and overcoming them is what makes life meaningful. In order to succeed, your desire for success should be greater than your fear of failure.

Shyia Jacobs Over these four years I have learned who I am and who I aspire to be. U. City was what connected me to my friends, my dream, my legacy.

Charese Jeffries 2013! We did it! I have learned a lot these past FOUR years, and now I’m ready to go to college and become a success. Watch out, world!!0 #squad #TurnUp

Troy Jones I’m going to miss U. City, but I’m on to bigger and better things. Don’t believe me? Just watch!!! I invented streetwear/90’s swagg!

KJordan Kennedy Hakuna matata.

Melanie Kirksey These last four years have been an experience for me. I have no regrets, because every mistake I’ve made is a lesson learned. I embrace my mistakes because they made me a stronger person. I gained a lot of confidence and made friends with people who mean a lot to me. I’ll honestly miss high school, but I am ready to go out into the world and follow my dreams. Look out for me because one day, I will be famous!

LMadeleine Lewis U. City, it’s been real!

Matthew LoobyIt has been a good four years. Good luck to the sports teams next year. Daphne Pastard, will you marry me?Camisha Luellen: High school was great. College is a 4-year crescendo.

MAlexus Marshall I’m so glad to get out of this mugg, but it was fun while it lasted. College time, y’all know what that means? TURNUP!!!

Madelin Mattli So happy I had the opportunity to meet people here and become involved with the school. It’s been a unique learning experience, and I wouldn’t have it any other way.

Antwon Miller To get to my destination, imma need

less procrastination with added anticipation. I will reach my aspirations. Life is what you make it, live it but don’t waste it. F.H.O.T.@21Twone1 2013!!! We out of chea!!!

Merinda Morley On to bigger and better things.

Abby MutruxNew car, new smile; same friends, different styles. Play down with my day one girls and we in the club screaming with new friends.

NRaeneisha Nicholsc/0 2013 We made it! I hope

everybody has fun in college! 2013 the best year ever! Class of 2013 Yea buddy! LOL

PDaphne Pastard Dancing, laughing, and being at U.

City have been real. I’m excited to face the realm world. And Looby… okay sure, why not.

Daniel PolitteIf there’s one thing I’ve learned at U. City, it’s that this time is what you make of it. Get out of it what you can. Me, I’m out.

Sam Polzin“You miss 100% of the shots you don’t take. – Wayne Gretsky” – Michael Scott

Kayla Pruitt High school has taught me lessons that I will carry with me for the rest of my life. It was the most overwhelming, emotional, fun, and epic four years of my life so far.

RMar’Tez Reed Everyone I have met in the past four years has shaped me into who I am today. I’ve been in U. City all my life, and being able to grow up with the same people you knew since kindergarten is truly not something everybody is lucky enough to have. This isn’t the last time you’ll hear from me. You’ll probably see me on YouTube or on MTV debuting my new electronic song

featuring Skrillex. Lol! See ya!

Rickey Robinson On to bigger and better things. Shout

out to the class of 2013, my bros Static and Sakari, and my one and only Alexus. #letsgetit!

SMichael Sarber This, too, shall pass. –Middle Eastern proverb

Carl SechristThe last four years have been real, y’all! I’m looking forward to seeing where college will take us – who knows, maybe one of us will win a Nobel Prize.

Adriana SmithI am so happy to be moving on to the next chapter of my life. UCHS has molded me into a wonderful young lady and I am ready to take on life’s challenges. Joy is what I feel and nothing or no one can take that away.

LAST WORDS

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Chauncey SmithThese last four years have been cool, but I’m ready for college. SQUAD!!!

Kory Smith I enjoyed my senior year here. I took over at the talent show, fashion show, and Kinesis. Also, no matter where you end up in life, never forget where you came from.

Anna SoiferI have had an amazing experience at UCHS, in large part thanks to the wonderful teachers I have had. These extraordinary people have supported me, challenged me, and enhanced my already great love for learning, making this journey an incredible one. Teachers, I cannot adequately express my gratitude. Thank you.

Christopher StatesThank you, U. City. High school has been fun. I will miss all the homies and girls that I have befriended over the years. For everyone that attends the greatest high

school in the Lou, keep it respectable and cherish the black and gold. #2013

Jacob StueckNo do-overs, no retries, no take-backs. Today will only happen once, so make it count. Love and tolerate.Andrew Taylor: 2013… we’re going places! …Live, love… Vibe…

TDarnell Tillman LeBron!!!

WAun’Yiea WatsonMy mistakes aren’t failures that make me weak. They are downfalls that make me stronger. “The moment you stop moving toward a goal, you become the obstacle.”

T’Airra WheelerYou win some, you lose some, but you live to fight another day.

Radazaih WhittingtonThe real world is just a couple months away for me. I’ve been waiting since my first day of my freshman year for this! Shout out to Brittany, Monet, Maddy, Shanelle, Cam, all my favorite teachers and staff, and my TREND members. It’s been real. #imready #beenready #2013 #fullride #collegebound

Natasha WileyHigh school is a bunch of drama and a bunch of fights, but when it comes down to college, it is a totally different scene. Once you leave high school you are entering the real world, and in the real world people get hurt for starting up drama. I will miss you guys, U. City.

Aubrey WilliamsI’ve only been at U. City for a year, but I feel like I’ve been here all my life. I’ve met some amazing people and made some amazing friends. Don’t you forget about me! <3

Dwayne WilliamsKeep your third eye open. c/0 2013 Keep your heads up. Those still here, get some long-term goals and stick to them.

Tiaura WilsonI am a proud, beautiful, black, phenomenal young lady who’s not ashamed to say I started from the bottom, now I’m here! (starts jigging)

Kaicee WoodsI came. I saw. I conquered. Now it’s time for the next challenge.

LAST WORDS

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Cortese Mitchell

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Kristie Adams – University of Missouri-Kansas CityDestiny Anderson-Bush – University of Missouri-Kansas CityParis Billups – University of Central MissouriGeorge Brown – University of Nebraska-KearneyKarlin Clabon-Barnes -- Northwest Missouri StateSammiyah Clay – Oklahoma State UniversityBrittany Cole -- St. Louis Community CollegeKaleel Coleman -- Missouri Western State UniversityAdrian Collins – Missouri State University

Breana Conner – Southeast Missouri State UniversityHannah Dallas – University of Missouri-Kansas CityGrace Deitzler – Missouri S&TTaylor Easley – Jackson State UniversityEthan Farber – Washington UniversityKeya Freeman – Lincoln UniversityLafayette Gatewood -- Missouri S&TMone`t Grant – Northwest Missouri StateTamara Gordon -- Georgia Gwinett College

Kayla Hall – St. Louis Community CollegePatrick Harting – St. Louis Community CollegeAndrielle Hawkins – Linden-wood UniversityAndreaunna Hawkins – Missouri State UniversityAntone Hayes -- Missouri ValleyAllie Hines – Arcadia UniversityZibiah Hoskins – University of MissouriEliana Hudson – University of Missouri-Kansas CityQuindara Jackson – Stephens CollegeShiya Jacobs – Fontbonne UniversityCharese Jeffries – Texas Southern UniversityDarnell Tillman – Southern

Mississippi UniversityTroy Jones – Missouri Valley CollegeJordan Kennedy – University of MissouriMelanie Kirksey – Fashion Institute Design and MerchandiseMadeline Lewis -- University of MissouriMatthew Looby – Western Michigan UniversityCamisha Luellen – University of the Arts, PhiladelphiaJohnathan Lyons -- Purdue UniversityAlexus Marshall – Southeast Missouri StateMadelin Mattli – Missouri State UniversityMerinda Morley – Ball State UniversityUrsula Monaghan -- SwarthmoreAbby Mutrux – University of MissouriRaeneisha Nichols – St. Louis Community CollegeDaphne Pastard – Loyola New OrleansJamal Plair -- Missouri ValleyDaniel Politte – Washington University St. LouisSam Polzin – Rhodes CollegeKayla Pruitt – Lindenwood UniversityMar`Tez Reed – The Art Institute of St. LouisRickey Robinson – UAPBMike Sarber – Saint Louis UniversityCarl Sechrist – University of Colorado-BoulderAdriana Smith – Missouri State UniversityChauncey Smith – Missouri ValleyKory Smith – Forest Park Community CollegeAnna Soifer – Johns Hopkins

Jeffrey Standifer -- Truman State UniversityChris States – William JewelJacob Stueck – Missouri S&TAndrew Taylor – Southern Illinois University, EdwardsvilleAnthony Waters -- Westminster CollegeAun’yiea Watson – Hampton UniversityT`Airra Wheeler – Lincoln University Radaziah Whittington – Culver-Stockton CollegeNatasha Wiley – Forest Park Community CollegeAubrey Williams – University of MissouriDwayne Williams – University of MissouriTiaura Wilson – Sullivan UniversityKaicee Woods – Missouri State University, Springfield

FINALDECISIONS

Whether you always knew where you wanted to

go to college or you just finally decided on May 1,

seniors weigh finances, location, housing, food,

and most of all, the academic offerings.

“Meramec is cheaper and it will be easier for me to go there right now.” -Brittany Cole

“Missouri Valley College offered me a nice amount of money for a scholarship to play football and I felt instantly comfortable there.” -Troy Jones

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Destiny Anderson-BushThe visual and vocal arts have impacted Anderson-Bush’s life for as long as she can remember. As early as middle school, she was choreographing musicals at Brittany Woods and performing in her church’s choir. It was during middle school that she was inspired to join the Golden Girls. “I would go to all the football games and for some reason I couldn’t take my eyes off of the dance team. They were just flawless.” During her time in high school, Anderson-Bush has performed in musicals, choir, and Kinesis; through these outlets she has been inspired by her teachers Ms. Morgan and Ms. Ibnabdjeljalil. Anderson has continued to choreograph and even had her six minute original piece performed at the 2013 Summer Kinesis. As for singing, she has won a state superior rating and a $25,000 scholarship for UMKC’s singing program. Anderson plans to attend UMKC to double major in business and dance with a minor in music. “I plan on dancing and singing for the rest of my life,” said Anderson-Bush. “I believe my talents will take me all over the world to meet new people and show them my talents.”

Camaron Ballard“I like dancing because it allows me to be anybody I want,” said senior

Camaron Ballard. It all started sophomore year when Ballard was cast a minor dancing role in “Suessical: The Musical,” and ever since that experience he has

been hooked on dancing. Over the course of high school, he has improved significantly. Just this year, he has been in Mrs. Morgan’s ballet/modern dance,

advanced dance 7-8 classes and a cadet teacher in the 3-4 class, he also takes ballet and hip-hop classes with COCA. Ballard plans on pursuing a career in dance after high school by studying dance and computer science at Webster

University.

The Dancers

Dontel PatmanFrom dance classes to golden girls to cheerleading senior Dontel Patman has dedicated most of his time at U. City to dancing. He was the first male to be on the Golden Girls dance team and plans to spend the rest of his life dancing. Although Patman has been given scholarships and has been accepted to four colleges, including Webster University. He intends to move to Chicago and join the Homer Bryant Dance Company, which travels all over the country and performs. “I think everyone should believe in themselves and follow their dreams,” said Patman.

Shandrea White“My favorite part of dancing is the feeling I get when I’m on stage,” said

senior Shandrea White. “I feel like I can tell any story that I want through my movements and I have the audience’s undivided attention.”Some of White’s

biggest accomplishments include: becoming president of the Kinesis Club and being selected as the first of five out or 150 dancers to receive the Dance St. Louis Career Award.“After high school I plan to double major in dance and

veterinary medicine,” said White. “I want to tour with a dance company for a couple of years then become a veterinarian to stack up money and then one

day open my own dance studio.”

Daphne PastardOf all the art classes that U. City offers, dancing is probably the most popular. Senior Daphne Pastard, a life a long dancer, will attest, however, that they are not blow-off classes. Pastard has dedicated much of her time at U. City to the various levels of dance, Golden Girls and outside instruction. She will be enrolling in Loyola University – New Orleans next year, where she will give just as much, if not more, time to dance, but until then she has plans for this summer to dance in New York, one of the world’s biggest centers for performing arts. “Dancing is in my blood,” says Pastard. “My grandmother and my mother danced, so it was expected for me to dance. It is the most challenging thing that I do, but it’s also what I love most.”

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Zachary MorrowEver since the young age of two, senior Zach Morrow been moving to the beat of his own drum. Morrow has been tak-ing lessons from U. City alum Rob Silverman ever since he can remember. “I love performing in front of huge crowds,” said Morrow. “A lot of my teachers have enjoyed my playing and even come to my performances outside of school. Having their positive feedback and compliments makes me feel amazing.”As for the future, Morrow is currently choosing between UMKC and Michigan State University and he hopes that music will take him around the world.

Rachael AikenMr. Yancy and Ms. Claunch have both paved the way for senior Rachael Aiken’s desire to become an elementary school art teacher. In beginning years of high school, Yancy showed Aiken the ropes of computer programs and Claunch assisted with beginning drawing techniques. She’s been taking art classes since freshmen year and is currently enrolled in graphic art as an independent study. The sets of fall plays and spring musicals were also a part of her high school art play. Aiken helped to design and paint sets for spring musicals “Cinderella”, “Suessical”, “Aida”, and mostly recently “Footloose”. Aiken plans on attending community college for a few years and then transfer to a four year university.

Jacob HammondIn an increasingly technology dependent world, U. City’s graphic art programs

have started to expand. Senior Jacob Hammond is a member of such programs and known for his work and dedication. “Art is something I have a passion for,

aside from the eraser marks, looking at a piece you made with your own hands is a wonderful feeling,” says Hammond. “I want to major in graphic design because I

love computers, working on them comes naturally, and design is easy for me. Also, producing a logo or design that people will use is a wonderful feeling that gives me

a great sense of accomplishment.”

Camisha LuellenWhen Camisha Luellen was first a part of the musical during her freshman year, she fell in love with performing. “I love being on stage, having presence. It’s like my bread and butter.” She was a part of future musicals and a mem-ber of the choir. She plans to study writing or film production in college and may minor in performing arts. “It’s a big part of my life and something that I thoroughly enjoy.”

Patrick HartingFor three years now, senior Patrick Harting has been practicing his art. “I first

started to get into graphic design when I was studying how to improve my graf-fiti design art,” said Harting. “From there I was exposed to a whole new aspect of

art.” Harting’s designs have helped him accomplish big things. Last summer he was chosen to attend a Washington University summer camp with ten others to study

design and typography. He is also a designer for Spectrum magazine and has taken up an independent study with art instructor, Mr. Yancy for graphic design. “One of my favorite projects would happen to be where we had to either redesign or make

our own product label,” said Harting. “I went ahead and made my own cereal: Fifty Shades of Grain.” Harting plans to contine his studies in graphic design at St. Louis

Community College and then either Webster or the Art Institute of Saint Louis. He recently won the Art Institute’s poster competition on a regional level and was

granted $10,000 and an entry on a national level where the prize is full tuition.

Layout design by Emily Looby, Staff Writer

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Diamonds are foreverStory and photos by Reniese WhiteStaff WriterAfter months of preparation, the prom committee’s hard work finally paid off on

Saturday, April 27. Ms. Coby and Ms. Henderson worked with juniors Izaac Tobias, Daja Miller, Molly Patterson and Deshuani Barlowe to make prom perfect at Windows On Washington downtown.

“It took four hours [of preparation] before the room was fit for the kings and queens of U. City High,” said Henderson.

Soon after, students started to arrive in gowns and tuxedos looking their best for a night to remember.

“When I walked in the building, it was pretty fancy, to be honest,” said Andre Thomas, senior. “Everybody looked nice and the place was beautiful. I felt this vibe when I walked in, which was good.”

Upon arrival, the stars of the evening were bombarded by photographers trying to take their pictures.

“Having all the photographers around made me feel like a really important person in an important place,” said Eliana Hudson, senior.

Once everyone was done with pictures, they headed to the dance floor to ‘kick it’ with friends and dates.

“I felt like it was fun and while I personally did not enjoy the music, I was able to put that aside and have fun with my friends,” said Claire Tschampel, junior.

Seniors Chauncey Smith, Rashaad Hinton, Adrian Collins, Troy Jones, Aun’yiea Watson, Arekel Fitzpatrick, and sophomore Ronnell Perkins celebrate at prom. “Man, I was super excited,” said Jones. “I felt really accomplished because I was king that night and I wanted to party hard with people who made it with me.”

The Prom King and Queen were seniors Ashlie Jackson and Troy Jones. “She definitely de-served to win, I just can’t stress that enough,” says junior Arreon Watson.

Juniors Izaac Tobias and Daja Miller soak up their moment in the spotlight. “ I didn’t need a crown to feel important, I got the crown because I am important,” says Tobias.

Layout design by Lily Lewis-Stump, Co-Editor

Junior Deshaunai Barlowe bought her dress online from a store in Chi-na for $160. “I loved the sweetheart look and the high-low ruffles.“

Senior Alexus Marshall bought her dress from Camille La Vie for $376. “My favorite part of the dress was how it was two pieces instead of one.“

Senior Ashley Moore bought her dress from Robin’s Bridal Shop for $178. “I loved the color,” says Moore. “It’s not something I would usually wear.“

Students crowd the dance floor as prom begins. “Everyone turned up for prom night,” says senior Madeline Lewis. “It was a lot of fun and dancing with all of my friends made the perfect end to senior year.“

Preparation for big night results in success

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The crowd rushes the dance floor when the song “Wobble,” by V.I.C. came on.

Showing off cut-out back of her dress, senior Breeonte Poe pauses before she makes her next move.

Charese Jefferies and Arekel Fitzpatrick, seniors, enjoy their last prom. “It was different [than last year] because the music was better,” says Fitzpatrick. “There was also more space and everybody looked good.”

Seniors Chauncey Smith, Rashaad Hinton, Adrian Collins, Troy Jones, Aun’yiea Watson, Arekel Fitzpatrick, and sophomore Ronnell Perkins celebrate at prom. “Man, I was super excited,” said Jones. “I felt really accomplished because I was king that night and I wanted to party hard with people who made it with me.”

Senior Martez Reed and sophomore Kayla Strong were enjoying the atmo-sphere at prom and were stopped in their tracks to take a quick picture. “It felt weird being on the other side of a camera since I am a photogra-pher, but I didn’t mind it,” says Reed.

Juniors Izaac Tobias and Daja Miller soak up their moment in the spotlight. “ I didn’t need a crown to feel important, I got the crown because I am important,” says Tobias.

Prom CourtKing and Queen

Troy Jones and Ashlie Jackson

Prince and Princess

Izaac Tobias and Deja Miller

By Kayla Holmes, Staff WriterMany of U. City’s water polo players agreed that the highlight of

their season was throwing both Head Coach Thomas and Assistant Coach Lhotak in the pool at the senior game. Despite the team’s playful attitude, all players became serious when it was necessary. Several newcomers joined the team with only the intention of trying something new but soon developed useful skills. “My personal goal was to try something new,” said senior Candice Robinson. “Now I can tread water for thirty seconds--in the beginning I couldn’t tread at all.” Throughout the season, the players worked constantly to improve their skills and edurance. “We made a lot of improvements towards the end of the season and it really showed in the last couple of games,” said senior Grace Deitzler.

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By Christine Politte, Staff Writer Coach Ibnabdeljalil knew this season would be a bit rough since the top six players on the team graduated last year. “It weakened the team a little,” he said. Nevertheless, despite having so many players new to the sport, he said, “It’s been great so far…the players are showing a great deal of progress.” The team has won several matches and is already looking ahead to next year, which Ibnabdeljalil hopes will be even more successful. “We’ve got to stay positive and optimistic,” said Ibnabdeljalil.

water polo

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track & fieldCody Rummerfeld Samuel Kent

Cortese Mitchell Arreon Watson

Jon Lyons

By Lily Lewis-Stump, Co-editorAs the spring sports season kicked off, many rugby players were doubtful they would have a team this year. Unlike many school sports, rugby is considered a club sport, which means that there has to be a teacher sponsor. Since there were no volunteers to sponsor the team, it looked very bleak for a U. City team this year. The coaches and few athletes determined to play decided that the only alternative was to become part of a different school’s team. “Kirkwood kind of adopted us,” said sophomore Sloan Marion. “We became part of their team and

it’s been really great. They’re pretty cool guys.” The Kirkwood-U. City team has had a great season with a record of 3-1-1.

By Emily Looby, Staff Writer “We go into each meet with the mindset of improving,” said boys track Head Coach Gibson. “I did not care so much about the points that we earn. We go to meets to prepare ourselves for our district meet that is fast approaching.” Junior Gianni Cook is one of those athletes who is constantly improving his pole vaulting. He has already out-performed his distance from last year by two inches. Senior John Smith started triple jumping this year, and he is currently ranked 26th among other area track and field athletes. Accordingly to stlhighschoolsports.com, sophomore Jordan Jennings is ranked in the top 20 for her 100 meter dash time.

Layout Design by Lily Lewis-Stump, Co-Editor

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By Jihira Patton, Staff Writer “I really had hope for this season,” said sophomore

Deandria Walker. “This year, the girls had really great sportsmanship.” The girls’ soccer team had a disappointing season this year with only one win. However, the skills learned this year are expected

to make next season very successful. “Unexpectedly, this year became a year of rebuilding,” said Coach

Brooks. “We focused on teaching the game and working on skills.” Even though the season didn’t live up to expectations, there were some breakout players.

Sophomore Kara Richardson is ranked in the top 5 varsity goalies in the area for saves and seniors Allie

Hines, Abby Mutrux, and Ursula Monaghan have been top players throughout the season.

By Sam Polzin, Staff WriterGolf is by no means a team sport. Each golfer plays their own game and competes for their own score. Yet, with no player who really dominates play, senior Jacob Hammond says that the golf team has a strong team spirit that allows them have fun going into every game. “Golf is a lifetime game,” said Hammond. “The great thing is that you can continue to improve through the rest of your life, and you don’t have to be the best now.” There are, however, four players—Jacob Hammond, Jacob Stueck, Jordan Kennedy, and John Bonham—who will be competed at the next level at districts in hopes of a state qualification.

golfsoccer

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Deandre Bledsoe

Abby Mutrux

Briana Sanford

Jasmine Conkin

Chris States

By Emily Looby, Staff WriterDespite not being as successful as anticipated, the baseball team brought home victories against Lutheran North, Cardinal Ritter, and most recently a win against McCluer. Senior Matthew Looby is highly ranked among other athletes in the Suburban South Conference for strike outs. As for the end of the season, the team won their first district game and hopes to finish strong.

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Matthew LoobySport: Varsity BaseballAccomplishments: Honorable Mention All-ConferenceSaint Louis Amateur Baseball Association (SLABA) League MVP 16USLABA League All Star 16UMember of Saint Louis RaysGreatest Academic Accomplishment:Honor roll all four yearsFuture Plans: After Looby graduates, he plans on attending Western Michigan University to study civil engineering. He also plans on trying out for the baseball team.Quote: “Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate but capable beyond measure.” – Marianne Williamson

Ursula MonaghanSport: Field HockeyAccomplishments:

Suburban All-Conference Honorable Mention

Public School Tournament All-Tournament Division 1

PlayerSenior all-star game

Varsity captainSigning college:

Swarthmore CollegeFuture plans:

Monaghan plans to major in biomedical engineering. She wants to continue playing field

hockey in college and may eventually become a coach.

Quote: “Always leave a place better than when you

found it.”Greatest Academic

Accomplishment:“I’m really proud of

juggling my AP course load with a hectic schedule of sports

and other extracurriculars. There have been times when

getting my homework done or studying for a test have seemed

impossible, but I was always able to push through.

Eliana HudsonSport: Cross Country

Accomplishments: Lutheran North Invitational –

15th PlaceWarrenton Invitational –

18th PlaceHancock Invitational –

20th PlaceState Qualifier –

11th Place, All-DistrictGreatest Academic

Accomplishment:Brown Book Award

College:University of Missouri – Kansas City

Future Plans:Hudson plans to change

the world by spreading the liberal agenda and feminism,

but if things don’t go well, her fallback plan is to become a

trophy wife. Quote: “The only way to

finish faster is to run faster.”

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Sam Polzin Sport: Cross Country Accomplishments:Lutheran North Invitational – 4th PlaceWarrenton Invitational – 6th PlaceState Qualifier – 9th Place, All-DistrictGreatest Academic Accomplishment: 4.0 GPACollege: Rhodes CollegeFuture Plans: Polzin plans to enter Rhodes as an International Studies major, and then he will see where running and academics take him after college.Quote: “I didn’t choose the running life, the running life chose me.”

Merinda MorleySport: Field HockeyAccomplishments:Winning the regional club championship last summer and going to nationals, Winning the pool in the Gateway Classic her freshman year, and Public School All-Conference First TeamSigning College:Ball State UniversityFuture Plans: Morley plans to study physical therapy and eventually work toward getting her PhD, as well as spend time playing and coaching field hockey or soccer.Quote:“Pain is a weakness living in the body.”

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Jeffrey StandiferSport: FootballAccomplishments:Becoming a scholar athlete by juggling schoolwork, academics and sports.Signing College: Truman StateFuture Plans:Standifer plans to major in both healthcare and nursing in college.Greatest Academic Accomplishment: Maintaining an overall 3.2 grade point average while being dedicated to a sport.Quote: “My time here is done and it’s time for me to take it to the next level.”

2013 POST -DISPATCH SCHOLAR ATHLETE

ATHLETES

Layout Design by Jihira Patton, Staff Writer

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Alice Mutrux, Co-EditorNewspaper this year was extra fun. As co-editor I was “large but in charge, chunky yet funky” (Latrice Royale). Sharing a leadership position with one of my BFFs (Lily) was both laborious and an absolute hoot. In 2013, a lot more was on my plate which brought upon great responsibility. I wrote stories, designed and created layouts, edited, and interviewed, but at the end of the day I had tangible proof of my work and dedication. Join the news-paper staff next year PLEASE! You will have to work hard at times, but not without a lot of laughs. The work is very rewarding and you get to hang out with me and other fabulous people dur-ing 7th hour! We go on many adven-tures around the school trying to find quotes and take last minute pictures. If you want to learn about photography, writing, design, work on our website, or control our social media, you will enjoy the class. You also get to talk to a lot of people and snoop for the scoop.P.S. Go to www.utimesonline.com it is the best website on this planet, you will not believe how great it is. Mahalo!

Lily Lewis-Stump, Co-EditorBeing the Co-Editor with the fabulous Alice has been really great this year. She is the most inspirational, beautiful, and talented young woman I have ever had the pleasure to encounter. She has made these years on the staff unforgettable and cracks me up to the point where I am dying on the floor from laughter. Having my homies Emily and Kayla on the staff has also made this year fantastic. My favorite junior Izaac Tobias made this year on newspaper unforgettable with all of his shenanigans! Although this has been a great year, we have had several obstacles. We had a lot of difficulty getting things done due to a lack of staff, however, we were able to produce some really great newspapers. Last year, writing for the paper was challenging, but this year it was taken to a whole other level. Making all of the big decisions has been great and the nervous anticipation of getting the paper printed on time was unexplainably nerve wracking. I can’t wait to be an editor again next year and look forward to all of the challenges it will bring! Adios amigos.

Emily Looby, Staff WriterThis was my first year on the newspaper staff and was a blast! My writing skills have improved since the beginning of the year and I’ve become more comfortable with asking people questions. Some of the deadlines were hard to meet because people don’t respond to emails or give the information that I needed. Overall, the year proved to be exciting and I can’t wait to take newspaper next year!

Michael Johnson, Editorial WriterrIt has been a great four years with the U-Times. I have been given tremendous latitude in the creation of my editorials. I thank all of the students and teachers for their forthright answers to my surveys. Your insights have inspired my writing and invigorated potentially dry topics with lively quotes. The growth of U-Times online is an exciting development and I hope this endeavor blossoms in the ensuing years. Carpe diem on the web. I hope my years on the paper will springboard me toward a career as professional writer. Thank you for reading.

Sam Polzin, Staff WriterI am currently a senior at U. City and have, unfortunately, only graced the newspaper with my presence for one semester. As a staff writer, I enjoy the freedom of being able to report on any topic I choose. Even though it is my plan to be in college next year, I hope that my quiet, yet guiding presence has helped my fellow writers to grow in both their skills and character.

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Kayla Homes, Staff Writer Being a part of the making of each U- Times Newsmagazine this school year, I have grown a better appreciation for current news. Throughout the year, I’ve faced several deadlines, written many stories, but most importantly enjoyed being with my friends Alice, Lily, and

Emily as they are also part of the U- Times staff.

Andrew White, Staff WriterI have always taken much joy from writing. Although my chosen forte is fiction rather than newspaper, I find this position to be an effective method of rounding out my writing ability. I also enjoy working “behind the scenes,” but I do partake in other school activities, such as Latin Club, FIRST Robotics and the school musical.

Jihira Patton, Staff WriterFor this being my first year on Newspaper has been really fun. I got to write about topics that I wanted to do, plus I even made an Official U. City Tumblr page. Yea, I’m a cool kid now cause I’m repping that newspaper life. I really think everyone should at least try out newspa-per if you love interviewing, writing, reading, taking photos and designing, this would be the class for you. I unfortunately joined the team for only one semester, but I will be back in ac-tion my junior year. Anyway, I’m going to give a quick shout out to my Thug Life members. We in action! #FreeMyCousinPookie

Carl Sechrist, Web EditorI have been with the newspaper for five semes-ters now – that’s two and a half school years. After learning the ropes in the second semester of sophomore year, I took over the job of web editor of utimesonline.com, the newspaper’s online sibling that nobody seems to know about. I have enjoyed the experience, however, and even earned a design award for my efforts refreshing the site last year. Layout Design by Alice Mutrux, Co-Editor

Christine Politte, Staff WriterThere are few feelings equal to that of opening a freshly printed newspaper and seeing your name over the story you’ve worked on for weeks. After Ms. Williams published my first short article in the newspaper, I was hooked. I joined the U Times staff in January, and I’ve loved every minute of it. I’m looking forward to writing more next year and perhaps playing a larger role on our website.

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If you had to ask a senior on a date, who would it be?

Sophia Kenyon, sophomoreDate: Mike SarberWhy? “He is the flyest senior out there.”Dream Date: “We would start the date out going to the mall to find matching outfits. Afterwards, we’d go to Forest Park to ride in paddleboats and eat at the Boat House. We would spend the rest of the day picnicking and basking in each others auras. Then I would fly him to New Zealand where we would live in a Hobbit Hole. FOREVER.”Layout Design by Alice Mutrux, Co-Editor

Jerrick Nance, sophomoreDate: Ariel Randall Why? “She’s beautiful.”Dream Date: “We would go to Paris and go out to eat real French food.”

Kassidy Little, freshmanDate: Anthony HenryWhy? “I think he’s cute and he seems cool.”Dream Date: “I guess we would go to Six Flags or walk the boardwalk. Somewhere with rides and games.”

Omar Foster, sophomore Date: Madeline LewisWhy? “She is so silly and funny. I think we would have a great time laughing together.”Dream Date: “I would take her to California and have a picnic on the beach.”

Jaylen Williams, freshmanDate: Merinda MorleyWhy?”I like her because she is athletic, pretty, and seems to be a cool person from what I see.”Dream Date: “We would go to Maggiano’s, the Italian restaurant, We would go see a movie, it doesn’t have to be a romantic movie.”

Malik Johnson, sophomore Date: Daphne PastardWhy? “She is nice, pretty, funny, and outgoing.”Dream Date: “My dream date would be to go Martha’s Vineyard and have a candle-lit dinner on the beach at twilight. The ocean breeze and sound of the waves calling our names ...”

Daryl Black, sophomoreDate: Shyia JacobsWhy? “She is very quiet and mean, and cute.”Dream Date: “I would take her to my first NBA game. Then to Hawaii to celebrate the win.”