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

NEWS MAGAZINE

SENIOR

ISSUE

Senior Artists 6-7 Prom 8-9Spring Sports 10-11

Seniors’ Last Words 2-3College Decisions 4-5

INSIDE Scholar Athletes 12-13Meet The Staff 14-15Now and Then 16

’15 ’16

’17

U-TimesMay 2014

Volume 24, Issue 5

Erianna Henderson

Deanna Smith

Maliaka Hill

MalikDaily

COVER DESIGN BY AR’REON WATSON

AAdeshola Adewale Don’t let the invisible chains of society hold you back.

Katrina Allen When I go to college, I am going to remember to stay focused because life starts now.

Julian AskewI don’t even remember most of this year.

BDeshunai Barlowe To humble yourself is key to success. Stay humble and be positive.

Kaelin Barnes It’s been the fastest, long run I’ve experienced and I have learned so much dealing with it.

Davidra Belk I am going to miss U. City...I grew lots of memories here. I can’t believe it is about to end. I love you c/o 2014!

Terence Bell I am really excited that high school is almost over.

Dimonica Blount I won’t spend the rest of my life wishing I would’ve done something different in high school. The decisions I’ve made and opportunities that I came across have taught me valuable lessons to use in the future.

Deja Bowie I’m really going to miss most of the people that I’ve met and spent time with for these past four years and I’m thankful for those that have supported and encouraged me throughout this time. I wish the best for everyone.

Emmai Brown Dreams come from the head, passion from the heart. When you find that one thing you love doing, strive to become the best at it and you will be successful.

Sakari Brown I just want to shout out my guys

Static, DJ, Jaybug, Jermar, and the rest. Faces up.

James Buchanan The life of high school was a good run, but it’s this senior’s time to say so long with no regrets.

Antoni Burks Before I came to U. City, I was just going to school everyday. Now, it feels like I’m at home and my class is my family.

Keonna Burns Loyalty is a must, but at the end, remember you are your only friend.You have no friends.

CJustice Carter You like, love, learn and you appreciate. No matter how hard or boring school may seem, you learn to love and appreciate your school.

Chelsea Casey Good luck to all the incoming students and upcoming seniors.

Marina Claunch Subscribe to my Youtube Channel: Marina Claunch and follow me on Instagram: @marinaart

Simone Clerk I love U. City, I’m going to really miss being here. I made a lot of memories and enjoyed my time here.

DeVonye Clerk Some memories are realities, and are better than anything else that can ever happen again.

Miquella Allen-Cochren I wish everyone the best of luck. I wish high school could’ve been better, but it is what it is.

Gianni Cook #If you want a look, vote Cook...for President of the United States.

Crystal Clay I’m going to miss some of y’all, but I gotta get out of this school. Bye!

DTyerenei Davenport Make sure you stay focused and never give up, because you never know how close you are to reaching your goal.

FOlivia FazioI’m finally out of here!!!

Morgan Fears Class of 2014. We made it!!!

GAlleyah GlennWhen it comes down to it, it’s kind of bittersweet to not share laughs with my friends at our lunch table, but at the same time I’m ready to embark on a new journey.

Chardonnay GraySenior year was the best because it is always Class of 2014 who are the best.

Ramauda Green Do your best, and work hard.

HElijah HamiltonMr. Carter owes me money. I’ll be back.

Kendal HarrisI always knew I would come back and graduate from University City when I left in the 3rd grade. Now look at me! I’m back!

Erianna HendersonI’m finally done with high school, yes God I’m done! I’m ready for the next step in life.

Maliaka HillWhether it’s “biggest gossip” or “queen of shade” I know my name will be remembered.

Dezeney HorneDuring my four years at U. City, I have become a little closer to everyone in my senior class and I’m honestly going to miss all of my friends.

Te’Aira HudsonI had my ups and downs at U. City, but I’ll always be a Lion. U-Time!

JSherrell Jefferson Don’t be afraid to open up. Graduate the most honest person despite how people treat you because you’ll always be better.

Sydney JohnsonIt’s been real but it’s time to spread my wings and fly.

2013-2014U-Times Staff

Editors: Lily Lewis-Stump &Alice MutruxAssistant Editor: Emily LoobyWeb Editor: Christine PolitteStaff Writers/Photographers: Brooklyn BassFrancene BethuneJoseph ChunnKayla HolmesSherrell JeffersonAlex JoliffSophia KenyonJihira PattonAnna RussellClara SchockAr’Reon WatsonDaniel WilliamsonReneise 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, recog-nizes 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, obscen-ity, material disruption of the educational process, copyright infringement, or unwar-ranted invasion of privacy.

Contact UsWe are located in Room 346 at University City High School, 7401 Balson Ave., Uni-versity City, MO 63130. Our email address is marywilliams@ucityschools.org. Tweet us or follow us on Instagram @utimesonline.

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.

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Erianna Henderson

Marina Claunch

SENIORS

Marlena Jones I have so many memories in this school. I’ve always loved U. City and I’m so happy to be graduating from here.

KTravis Kirby You’re looking at the next WWE World heavyweight champion. That championship is mine.

Alexis KozhevskyBYE!!! c-ya!

LHaley Clemons-LandreThanks for the laughs and the good ol’ times. Wanna continue these times? Follow me on Instagram @hayallday

Tamareka Lofton12 long years! I finally made it! I am blessed. Ayeeee! Yes Lawd!!!

Carlos Lopez After these four years I learned a lot of life lessons and skills I will use in the future.

MJacob MartinezI’m going to keep on finding out the kind of man I am through my music. That’s the one place I can be free. It’s difficult because I’m constantly changing.

Taylor Martin In school there is a

lot of craziness and distractions but if you don’t sweat the small stuff you’ll be fine, so keep calm and carry on.

Jazzmine Mason “We started from the bottom now we’re here!” I just want to say I’m proud of everybody that made it. It was just like we were freshmen, time went by so fast.

Javon Miller It’s been a long journey but I finally did it.

Daja Miller I’ve been going to U. City all my life and I couldn’t imagine myself with a different family. We have been through a lot these past four years and I’m happy to say I’m graduating from U. City.

Cierra MitchellHigh school is finally over!

RKiara Reed I hope everybody achieves their goals.

Areli Munoz ReyesAdios!

Ya’Jiara RobersonI’m out! It was fun but it’s time to run—peace!

Anna Russell“In the beginning the universe was created. This has made a lot of people very angry and been widely regarded as a bad move.” -Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy

S

Teaion Shaw I’m so happy that I made it through this year with no problem with my senior class and I successfully made it. Not a lot of people can say that.

Ian ShepardsonWhere we are going, we won’t need roads.

Bria SmithBye!

Eric StrandKeep your grades up and look forward to the day you will graduate as your motivation to do well in school.

TTrista ThorntonIt’s been a long time, finally I’m done with high school! I’m so not coming back! #CollegeFlow!

Izaac Tobias Whether you are the richest person in the room, or the brokest person, somebody is always going to have something negative to say. Sadly the older I get the less I care.

Claire TschampelDon’t be stupid. High school is not the true end-all-be-all. There’s a whole world going on outside of your life so be aware that your life needs to go on beyond high school.

Terry TurnerI know I don’t talk much, but I will miss all of you guys. I won’t forget about my experiences here or any of the people I’ve met. I

honestly didn’t think I’d last. Peace!

Cabria TurnerThis is going to be new because I’m going on my own and I’m going to have new responsibilities. I’m going to my teachers and walking down the halls of the Lions!

WCaitilyn WardSuccess will not lower its standards to us. We must raise our standard to success.

Ar’Reon WatsonComing from a high school with 88.5% blacks, I am a part of the minority. My college is only 3% black, but being the minority won’t deter my endeavours but “expand my horizons” as I make my mark on the world.

Reneise White“I’m not perfect. Never have been. Never will be. If you don’t like that, the door is over there but remember that sometimes the hardest thing to wear is our own skin.” -Jayy Von Monroe

Maurice WynnIt’s about time...four long years and now I’ve got to start all the way over again, but that’s cool. I’m going to kick it in college.

YAahron YoungWe say goodbye but the memories we share will stay with us forever.

3Before the final curtain call,

seniors had something to say...

Alleyah Glenn

Ya’Jiara Roberson

1. Senior Assembly

2. Kaelin Barnes, Darion

Brown and Carlos Lopez.

3. De’Vonye Clerk and

Caitilyn Ward

4. Sherrell Jefferson,

Ar’Reon Watson and

Reneise White.

5. James Buchanan and

Dimonica Blount

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SENIORS LAST WORDS

DESIGN BY RENEISE WHITE

MIssouri Western State UniversityKeonna Burns - NursingJustice Carter - Criminal JusticeTamareka Lofton

Northwest Missouri State UniversityEmmai Brown - Physical TherapyOlivia Fazio - Accounting

Florissant Valley Elijah Hamilton

Kiara Redd - BusinessMarcus Thomas Jones -

General Studies

Missouri Southern State UniversityKendal Harris - Child Care

Fontbonne UniversityTerry Turner - Computer Science

Rockhurst UniversityCaitilyn Ward - Nursing

Quincy CollegeDarion Brown - Computer Science

Southern Illinois University Sherrell Jefferson - Journalism, Creative Writing, and minor FDM - StylistBria Smith - Pre-Law

Columbia College - ChicagoClaire TschampelLoyola University Chicago Gianni Cook - Finance and Political ScienceDePaul UniversityErianna Henderson - Sociology

Southern Illinois University Edwarsville Tyerenei Davenport - Pre Pharmacy

Knox CollegeDeanna Pace - Economics

Eastern Illinois UniversityAbbey Karlovsky

Lincoln UniversityYa’ Jiara Roberson

University of Central MissouriCarson Brandt Maurice Wynn - Marketing

Saint Louis UniversityAlexis Kozhevsky - Nursing

and Russian

Harris- Stowe State UniversityMiquella Allen-Cochren

Trista Thornton - RNMarkisa Owens - Pre LawUniversity of Missouri - Columbia

Maliaka Hill - CommunicationsTaylor Martin - Biological ScienceJoshua Smith - UndecidedReneise White - Pre Med: Biology

Forest Park Katrina Allen - Nursing

Javon MillerTeaion Shaw

Cabria TurnerBenjamin Harrington

University of Kansas

Addeshola Adewale - Civil EngineeringJayla Jenkins

Kansas City Art InstituteDrea DiCarlo - Art and Creative Writing

Kansas State Ramauda Green - Psychology

SENIORfi n

al col

lege decisions--close to home

University of Missouri - Kansas CityJulian AskewDimonica Blount - Journalism Simone Clerk - Criminal JusticeIan ShepardsonEric Strand - Information Technology

Truman State University Davidra Belk - NursingAaron Little - Computer Program-ming

Missouri University of Science and Technology

Rashad Scales - Engineering

Missouri State University Chelsea Casey - Pre MedCrystal Clay - NursingDeVonye Clerk - Pre-MedMeranda Green - Pre-VetMarlena Jones - UndecidedIzaac Tobias - Business Marketing

Missouri

Illinois

Kansas

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DESIGN BY SHERRELL JEFFERSON

Southeast Missouri State University Kaelin Barnes - AccountingJames Buchanan - MusicAntoni Burks - Physical TherapyAlex Schlitter - Criminal Justice

University of Nebraska- KearneyDeshunai Barlowe - Pre Law

Dean CollegeAahron Young - Undecided

Kenyon CollegeAr’Reon Watson - Pre-Med and Psychology

San FranciscoArt Institute

Marina Claunch- Design and Technology

Howard UniversityDeja Bowie - Sociology

Ohio Massachusetts

California

Virginia

Nebraska

Langston UniversityDarion Young - Journalism

Texas Southern State UniversitySydney Johnson - Biology

Grambling State University Alleyah Glenn - Theater

Texas

Lousiana

Oklahoma

Bellarmine UniversityHaley Clemons- Landre - Political Science

Tennesse State UniversityMorgan Fears - Civil EngineeringAsha Garrison - EducationTe’Aira Hudson - Psychology

Lane College Chardonnay Gray - International Sports Marketing

Tennesse

Kentucky

College life takes seniors far away

SENIOR LETTERS: Newspaper seniors bid farewell

ReneiseWhite

Ar’ReonWatson

SherrellJefferson

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Over the past four years we have become one, we are all related. This is not a biological fact, but rather a social fact. While we are related, we are not interchangeable pieces or guinea pigs of society that can be measured by standardized test scores. I say this because I feel as if it hasn’t been stressed enough. There’s nothing sentimental about writing out a list of my accomplishments or activities. They are not ex-traneous, but we pride ourselves in our involvements way too much. I would like to express my gratitude and thank all the educators that have instructed me throughout my time at U. City. I have argued, I have misbehaved, and most importantly I am proud to admit that I have regrets. Regrets are stepping stones to coming to terms with the realities that we all must face. We are all familiar with the saying, “there is no I in team”, however, there does happen to be an I in life, and as we face the arduous road to adulthood, we are on our own; there is no team, we are always left with an I. I would not only like to say farewell (English), but “adieu” (French) and “despedida” (Spanish). Like I said, to all the possible different backgrounds and ethnicities in my class, we are all related. Good luck class of 2014.

Just a couple weeks ago I was saying how the days were going by so slow, but with it only being a couple days left I find it hard not to say I won’t miss it. These past couple years have been much more than just a couple of aches and pain with a little bit of happiness. I’ve meet some great people, lost my best friend, laughed, cried but one thing we all share is the accomplishment of graduating. There’s not enough time here at U. City to get to know everyone, though I wish I would’ve. What you fail to realize is how content we’re as a whole and there’s only so much pushing these teachers, guidance counselors and faculty assistants can do. The privilege to have learned to become the lady I am today was all worth it. Newspaper wasn’t much more of a challenge than having Mrs. Williams twice this year but as I enter a new chapter in my life, I hope that what I’ve learned carries through.

To all the class of 2014, I commend you all on your journey. Though we’re not united, we are all family and where ever we go I will always look at back at the good times we shared.

From a cute little girl to a lovely lady, I have grown so proud of myself and my community. Growing up in U. City has been such a pleasure and inspiration to my future goals and dreams. These past few years, in particular, have been the best because I have met the most wonderful people who believe in me. Of those people, I would like to firstly thank my mother, for always being there to support me. The next person is Mrs. Kavourinos for words of encouragement and for wiping away my tears. I would also like to thank Mrs. Williams and Ms. Williamson for always making me smile and for pushing me to my limit to succeed. Mr. Ashley for driving me to be my personal best and Mrs. Conner for always telling me that it’s OK to not perfect. Lastly, I would not be who I am today if it were not for Mrs. White-Williams. I want to thank her for helping me grow physically and emotionally in my academics. I love U. City and it will always be my home base no matter how far I go. Congrats to the class of 2014 and I love you all!

At a young age performing arts caught the attention of Asha Garrison.

“My mom inspired me to sing,” said Garrison. “She noticed potential in me when I was four years old. She is my biggest supporter.”

Mrs. Morgan and dance team coach Jaymi Smother-son both became prominent mentors in Garrison’s quest to

become a better performer during her sophomore year. Even though Garrison is a multi-talented performer she favors

singing over dancing. “I prefer dancing over singing,” said Garrison. “I get to not only

share my voice with different people but I also get convey my emo-tions through my voice.”

Garrison is currently undecided as far as her collegiate future. She is deciding between Tennessee State University and Clark Atlanta University. -By Emily Looby

Dancers

The art of dancing has brought out Abbey Karlovsky’s confidence and passion. Karlozsky has been exposed to dancing from a young age and took her first dance class, a children’s ballet class, at four years old.

By the time Karlovsky reached high school she didn’t know what she wanted to do.

“In my freshman year I had no idea who I was or who I wanted to be,” said Karlovsky. “I danced then because that was the only thing I knew how to do. Now I dance because it makes me happy.”

Since her freshman year, Karlovsky has taken dance classes with dance teacher Ms. Morgan. Heading into college, she plans to continue dancing with her univer-sity’s dance program, Eastern Illinois University Dancers. She also leaves behind words for younger dancers.

“Dance is not an art form that constantly needs to look good, but rather an art form that needs to feel good in your own personal way.” -By Kayla Holmes

Abbey Karlovsky

When three-year old Haley Clemons-Landre started taking ballet classes, immediately her instructors recognized an inherent gift. Little did she know that the endeavors of her youth would blossom into an enduring love of music and deeply rooted passion for dance.

“Any kind of art form allows me to creatively express myself and show people through dance how certain music makes me feel,” said Clemons-Landre.

Since her freshmen year, Clemons-Landre has made great strides in dance and music. She is currently enrolled in Mrs. Morgan’s Dance 7-8 and Ballet/Modern Dance, and her successes in the arts extend far beyond school.

Landre plans on attending George Washington University where she will major in international relations.

“I plan to continue taking dance classes on and off campus,” Landre said. “My love of dance and music will always keep growing, so I plan on taking it with me wherever I go.” -By Joseph Chunn

As a little girl Deja Bowie loved to dance, and her love for it just contin-ued to grow.

“I didn’t actually start any type of formal dance training until my freshman year,” said Bowie.

She has been in dance all 4 years, but just this year she has been in Mrs. Morgan’s Ballet/Modern dance and advanced dance 7-8 classes. Without any true inspiration to her pas-sion for dance, her dancing

simply allows her to be free and “move freely.” As Bowie continues to consider dancing in college,

she says she is “debating on just dancing in a local studio or doing it as a minor.”

Like most dancers who pride themselves in entertain-ing others or making a profit from their entertainment, this is not the reason why Bowie dances.

“I dance because it makes me happy and allows me to express anything I’m feeling at any time, said Bowie.” “I can only further my passion from here.”

-By Ar’Reon Watson

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Singers

Singing and dancing have always been a huge part of senior Molly Paterson’s life, specifically during high school. Singing is her specialty, which landed her in the district choir finals. Aside from choir, Paterson has participated in every spring musical since her freshman year and two fall plays. She credits her role as showgirl in Suessical the Musical as her most pivotal role, which shaped her to be the performer she is today.

“My role as a bird gin really challenged me to step out of my comfort zone,” said Paterson. “When I was cast for the role I was slightly timid because it was my first year at high school, but at the each show I gained more confidence and just became a better performer.”

As far as Paterson’s plans beyond high school, she has committed to Bradley University where she will major in business. -By Emily Looby

Molly Paterson

Haley Clemons-Landre

Deja Bowie

Asha Garrison

DESIGN AND ILLUSTRATIONS BY ALICE MUTRUX AND ANNA RUSSELL

Singers

Dancers

Artists

Anna Russell

Andrea DiCarlo has never confined herself to one type of art.

“I like that there’s a bajillion different facets for get-ting an idea out there,” she said.

DiCarlo thinks of herself as a writer, but she also sings, acts in the spring musicals, and creates visual art.

“Sometimes I feel compelled to do visual stuff,” she said, especially conceptual art, or “paint with a statement.” She also greatly enjoys found-object art.

DiCarlo spent a lot of time developing her artistic talents in elementary school when she lived outside the district and had few friends in her neighborhood, she said. Since then, she has continued expanding her skills, but she didn’t intend to go to art school until she went to the Missouri Fine Arts Academy last summer.

Now she hopes to make her passion into a career after attending the Kansas City Art Institute.

“I’m definitely interested in using art as a community builder,” she said. “...I really think the arts are a great way to unify people.”-By Christine Politte

Ever since she was in middle school, Marina Claunch has been expressing her emotions through her creativity in the form of visual artwork.

“I got into art in 2009, when I was in eighth grade,” said Claunch.

Since then Claunch has been getting into different forms of art.

“Graphic design is a little confusing because I’m not totally comfortable with that and it is new to me,” said Claunch. “My favorite form of visual art is painting because it comes naturally to me, and because of that I don’t have to work really hard when I paint.”

Claunch has big plans for her future, and hopes to turn her artistic talent into a career.

“I want to either be a graphic designer or a makeup artist for celebrities,” said Claunch.

Claunch will be able to reach for these goals at San Francisco Art Institute, which she will start attending this fall.-By Daniel Williamson

Ever since a young age, Claire Tschampel has had an artistic talent for drawing and designing, but it was not until high school that she started to experiment with different types of art.

“I have being taking drawing class for as long as I can remember,” said Tschampel.

Tschampel’s talent touched art teachers such as Mr. Yancy and Ms. Claunch.

“Claire took graphic design as a freshman, she came in not knowing what she was doing,” said Mr. Yancy. “Following her sophomore year she took graphic design for her remaining two years of high school and she has matured artistically and socially,” he said. “I am proud to call Claire one of my greatest students.”

Tschampel’s plan is to major in filmmaking.

“For filmmaking you need an artistic background,” said Tschampel. “My advice is if you want to major in something in the art field is to take art in high school.”-By Francene Bethune

When Anna Russell was a child, she realized she wanted to be talented at something as an adult, so she decided to start studying art.

“You hear all those stories about people who start doing things when they’re little and get really good at it and I wanted to be one of those people,” said Russell.

She plans to go to Webster University in the fall and study art.

“I’m not sure what I want to do exactly, just that it has to do with art,” said Russell. “It’s the only thing I like doing that would make me money.”-By Alex Jolliff

7Andrea DiCarlo

Marina Claunch

Claire Tschampel

By Brooklyn BassStaff WriterA contortionist, a man on stilts, and a professional unicycler were only a few of the elements that livened up the Cirque Du Soleil-themed prom as well as the crowd of well-dressed students who attended the event.

For Ms. Woods, junior class sponsor, being able to acquire the entertainers along with being tasked to decorate the selected venue took a lot of time and energy.

“I wanted students to have more than just a prom,” said Woods. “I wanted it to be an experience. I wanted to make sure there was something for everyone from the cotton candy, the circus

performers, the flip flops for the ladies, the caramel popcorn favors — shout out to Ms. Strohm — and even the cool LED cups.”

The prom was held on April 5 at Windows on Washington where students were served stuffed chicken, mashed potatoes, and a vegetable medley for dinner. Bottomless drinks were served along with desserts, cotton candy, and fondue.

“I loved the desserts,” said junior Samantha Strand. “It was the best part of the dinner. The chocolate-covered strawberries were really good.”

Although the food was one of the highlights of some of the prom-goers’ night, the

announcement of prom court stood out the most. Gianni Cook was crowned prom king alongside Daja Miller as prom queen. Ar’Reon Watson and Devonye` Clerk reigned as prom prince and princess, respectively.

For junior Sloan Marion, the food and other festivities that the event was centered around were the least important aspects he took away from prom. Instead an unforgettable night of fun with his peers was the defining aspect of prom he knows will last years later.

“Prom is a bonding time,” Marion said.

PROM PHOTOS AVAILABLE AT UTIMESONLINE.COM

Circque de Soleil

Prom King and Queen were seniors Gianni Cook and Daja Miller with Prom Princess and Prince seniors Devonye` Clerk and Ar’Reon Watson.

Prom 20141. Kerstin Morley 2. Katrina Allen and D’Mario Rodgers 3. Samantha Strand and Ian Sheperdson 4. Jazzmine Mason 5. Ar’Reon Watson and Brooklyn BassPHOTOS BY OLIVIA FAZIO AND INTER-STATE PHOTOGRAPHYDESIGN BY SHERRELL JEFFERSON

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Circus juggler

Circus theme energizes prom

Circque de Soleil

Seniors Emmai Brown and Chelsea Casey

Senior Sherrell Jefferson and

Rashaad Hinton

Senior Maliaka Hill

Senior Tamareka Lofton

Prom CourtKing and Queen

Prince and Princess

Gianni Cook and Daja Miller

Ar’Reon Watson and Devonye` Clerk

Seniors Maurice Wynn and Arielle Johnson

Senior Te’Aira Hudson and junior

Alajah Baker

Senior Asha Garrison

Senior JahmahlJennings

Junior Andrew White

Senior Simone Clerk

Seniors Emmai Brown, Tyerenei Davenportand GianniCook

Junior DestinyBedford

Senior Justice Carter and Jeromy

Goode

U-Times May 2014SPRING SPORTS 10

Tennis

Clara SchockStaff Writer

Coach Ibnabdeljalil knew from the start that this season would be better than the last. “Luckily we didn’t lose any seniors last year. This made the team this year look a lot stronger than last year,” said Ibnabdeljalil. However, the team will suffer some losses this year, such as their captain Fran Stuart. Ibnabdeljalil still remains optimistic about the future, “We are losing our top three players but I think we have some new players that are progressing really fast and we should be ready for next year.”

Emily LoobyAssistant Editor

Currently 2-19, the varsity baseball team has struggled to perform at the plate and play efficient, effective defense.

Derrick Freeman and Alonso Jenkins are the only returning varsity players from last year’s roster, with twelve varsity rookies.

“It has been has a rough year,” said junior Derrick Freeman. “The current team only has two returning players from last year; we have had to fill many holes in the lineup.”

Aside from the changes in the teams’ roster, the coaching staff has also changed since last year. The

assistant boys basketball coach John Bass was named the new head coach. Craig Morris and Christopher Little are also new additions this years’ squad.

“As a team we need to show more effort,” said junior Marlon Tuckson. “Our defense needs improvement; errors are our main issue.”

Despite all the challenging games, the boys are optimistic for as far as next season and the upcoming district tournament.

“They [the coaches] are a lot more involved this year,” said Alonso Jenkins. “They have taught us more specialized skills. Our district tournament is next week and we plan to put forth a great showing.”

Brooklyn BassStaff Writer

After rescheduling seniors’ graduation to May 28 fto accommodate the state track meet, Coach Keller expects all of the athletes on the boys track team to compete with pride and execute a winning plan.

“The 4 by 4 relay is the strongest event for the team,” said Keller. “We should make state finals for that event at the state championship.

In addition, Keller also anticipates particular boys on the team to perform on a level that surpasses the rest. Of those he calls notable, he mentions seniors Gianni Cook and Darrion Fields with juniors Isaac Levin and Ronelle Perkins.

“I’m the only one that pole vaults,” said Cook. “I also have a lot of technical events.”

For the seniors, the track meet will be the great ending to a four-year high school athletic career.

“Everything is going right for my senior year,’ said Cook.

Gianni Cook

Brooklyn BassStaff Writer

Although weather has been an obstacle that has kept the girl’s track team from training effectively, Coach Matt Keller is actually content with the girl’s track season.

“I’m happy with where we’re at,” Keller said.Despite the deterring weather, the girl’s track

coach has noticed an improvement in participation and competitive drive. Among the athletes junior Kerstin Morley, sophomore Jordan Jennings and sophomore Cayla Johnson are said to be the ones driving the new positive attitude.

“I run mid-distance and coming in as a junior and never ran before, I run really fast,” said Morley. “I think I have a lot of determination.”

With the track season in full swing, Keller hopes that the girls keep training.

“We’ll get in a really good place,” Keller said.

Baseball

Derrick Freeman

Regina Artison

Boys Track Girls TrackJosh Smith

SPRING SPORTSU-Times May 2014 11

Golf Water Polo

Soccer

Christine PolitteWeb Editor

Before their season started, almost a third of the water polo team had never seen a water polo game. Although it was challenging to have five new players out of 13 total, Coach Thomas welcomed players of all skill levels.

“Water polo’s a really complicated sport,” he said. “It’s not easy to learn.”

Thomas was pleased to watch the team come together more quickly than they did last year. “We’re better than last year, but we still have a long way to go,” he said. “Little things make a big difference, and I get excited about those little things.”

Jihira PattonStaff Writer

It’s rare to have a varsity team without any seniors, but this is the plight of the girls’ soccer team this spring. According to Coach Brooks, the team has a core group of freshmen and sophomores and a handful of juniors. The two freshman captains, Justice Corn and Hannah Fuller, have all four of the coaches’ goals this season.

“Without any seniors, the team will only get better as we go,” said Coach Brooks.

The success of this season is depends on how the team moves positively, getting away from just kicking blindly, and understanding how the system evolves. The team is also learning how to play together and making progress.

“The biggest challenge this season is making sure everyone understands the system that we play,” Brooks said.

Joseph ChunnStaff Writer

Despite a losing regular season record, things are looking up for the golf team as they prepare for conference and district tournaments. With high spirits and a drive to improve, the golf team has made great strides to make themselves more competitive. Coach Bryne, a 40-year veteran golfer, commended the team for sweeping improvements.

“This year we have lowered our team scores by lowering our individual scores,” said Bryne. “Our players have scored career bests this year. Prior to last season, we hadn’t won any dual matches in over four years.”

While the success of most sports depends on the strength of the whole, a golf team relies on the sum of its parts.

“All of our players are developing great skill sets, but one could actually make it this year for sure.” Dynamic in nature, golf requires its players to take harness a variety of skills. “Golf is like a chess match with clubs and golf balls, being played outdoors. Your shots are subject to the environmental conditions which play a huge part in how a player executes each shot,” said Bryne.

Justice Corn

Korrina Brandt

DESIGN BY LILY LEWIS

Jonah Zukosky

Support the U-TimesWe thank our supporters for donating to our student publication! If you are interested in donating, please e-mail Mary Williams at marywilliams@ucityschools.org.

Writer/Photographer ($20 or less)AnonymousKendra BertlesteinKaye BockJoseph Chunn

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Editor-in-chief ($45-$75)

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2014 Yearbooks available!ONLY $50See Mrs. Williams in room 346

SCHOLAREric Strand

Sport: Cross Country

Accomplishments: Captain

Cross Country team, ran a

18:50 for a 5k, and quali-

fied for the state meet

College: University of

Missouri-Kansas City or

Southeast Missouri State

University (SEMO)

Future Plans: Either get my

BIT degree in Information

Technology or go to SEMO

and go into Cybersecurity

Academic Accomplish-ments: Maintained above a

3.5 GPA for my senior year

Quote: “Don’t let your

grades slip, because when

you become a senior you

will be too busy getting

ready for college.”

12

Ar’Reon WatsonSport: Track and Field

Sport Accomplishments: Varsity

track and field (800 m), Varsity

soccer (defender) and scholar

athlete of both.

College: Kenyon College,

Future Plans: Joining D3 track

team as a walk-on freshman.

Double majoring in forensics

psychology and chemistry.

Academic Accomplishments:

National Society of High School

Scholars, All-American Scholar,

Academic Award (11 and 12),

Scholar Athlete (10, 11, 12)

Quote: “Let’s get one thing

straight…I’m not!”

Addy AdewaleSport: Field HockeySport Accomplishments: MVP of Varsity Field Hockey team, Co-Captain and 1st team All-ConferenceCollege: University of KansasFuture Plans: To study Engineering and get a graduate’s degree in structural engineering and design commercial parking facilitiesAcademic Accomplishments: Gladiator academic athlete award (field hockey), honor roll all four years Quote: “Failure is temporary. It may last a minute, or an hour, or a day, or a year, but eventually it will subside and something else will take its place. If you quit, however, it lasts forever.”

Haley Clemons-LandreSport: Field HockeyAccomplishments: Field Hockey Captain senior year (voted by teammate’s best leader), 1st team all-conference, voted best defense by peersCollege: George Washington University- Elliot School of International AffairsFuture plans: Major in international rela-tions, minor in the Arabic language. Work in the Middle East with the UN.Academic Accomplishments: 3.8 cumula-tive GPA, honor roll all four years and recognized as Gladiator Scholar Athlete by NFHCAQuote: “I want people to look at the things I’ve done over the past four years and say ‘wow even back in high school she was striving to always do her best.”

ATHLETES 13

2014 POST -DISPATCH SCHOLAR ATHLETE

Gianni CookSport(s): Soccer, Track, and FootballAccomplishments: Two-time conference champion pole vault, all-conference triple jump, and two-time district runner up-pole vaultCollege: Loyola University-ChicagoFuture Plans: Double major in finance and political science. Become a stock broker. Later in life explore politics, and then become President of the United States.Academic Accomplishments: UMSL Excellence in Languages Award, St. Louis Post-Dispatch Scholar Athlete of the Year and honor roll all four yearsQuote: “Never change who you are. If people can’t accept you for you, then they’re not the right people to be around.”

Fran StuartSport(s): Soccer and Tennis

Accomplishments: four years of Varsity Soccer, two years as Captain, and two years

of Varsity tennisCollege: Bradley University

Future Plans: Degree in Mechanical Engineering

Academic Accomplishments: Four years honor roll

DESIGN BY JIHIRA PATTON

14

STAFF

Alice Mutrux (left): “Newspaper always proves to be an interesting experience filled with endless entertaining moments. Kenyon is my heart, Stump is my soul, Russell is my muse, and Williamson is my guiding light. We are all pieces of the great puzzle that is life. Lastly, thank you to my fans who have inspired me, shout out to my haters who give me strength, and my eternal love goes out to my ancestors who have paved the way towards my inventable fame and success. Fin.”Lily Lewis-Stump (right): “‘I figure life’s a gift and I don’t intend on wasting it. You don’t know what hand you’re gonna get dealt next. You learn to take life as it comes at you... to make each day count.’ – Jack Dawson. Newspaper has been quite the commitment, but the people and product make all of the hard work worthwhile. So many memories have been made while being on this staff and I can’t wait to start it all over for senior year.”

Sherrell Jefferson (left): “Newspaper has done just about everything except kill me. As a team player, I have learned how to hold my own weight and pull things together at the most unbearable times. It’s not always peaches and cream.”Anna Russell (right): “I thought I would be writing tons of boring stories, but instead I was able to do a lot of artwork for the newspaper.”

Clara Schock: “I joined the U-Times because I love to write and since joining I have really broadened my writing ability. I consider Newspaper to be a great experience and I encourage others to join.”

Francene Bethune: “I joined the newspaper because I like writing and photography. I think a semester of newspaper has changed my point of view of writing. I plan to continue until my final year at U. City.”

Kayla Holmes: “Newspaper has allowed Kayla to be Kayla.”

Joseph Chunn: “Being a part of a group of talented aspiring journalists has really been thrilling. Prior to joining this team, I really underestimated journalism, but now I know how challenging it can really be. “

follow us @utimesonline or visit utimesonline.com

Meet theU-Times

May 2014

Daniel Williamson:“I joined the U-Times staff this year, and the experience has been a growing process for me as a writer. In addition to writing articles for the paper, I also write monthly horoscopes on the newspaper’s website, utimesonline.com, which everyone should read because I don’t write them just for no one to read.”

Reneise White: “With my senior year coming to a close, I just want to say that I loved being dedicated to yearbook, newspaper, and to my school. If you want to see more of my work, you can visit utimesonline.com.”

Brooklyn Bass: “Working with the staff has taught me a lot about teamwork. As a team, we must be on the same page, communicate, and be able to hold our weight and meet deadlines. As a result, I have also come to discover the personali-ties of the brilliant, talented people on the staff.”

Sophia Kenyon: “I have found my first year of newspaper to be an absolute riot. Working next to my best friends on topics that really interest me have given me the freedom to grow as a writer while also having fun. I will miss everybody next year!”

Ar’Reon Watson: “Throughout my time as a newspaper staff reporter, I found myself facing the dilemma between objectivity and subjectivity. I can’t say that I am no longer subjective, but however, I find the facts to seep through my overt opinions, making me no longer just a writer, but an aspiring journalist—in my opinion!”

Emily Looby: “This year, newspaper was crazy, we were constantly on deadline. I am going to miss the entire staff, but I look forward to editing next year’s yearbook.”

Alex Jolliff: “This year is my first year on newspaper and I really enjoyed it. I hope to continue writing on the newspaper staff for the next couple years and to continue to grow as a writer.”

Christine Politte: “So far, Newspaper has been everything from fascinating and fun to intense and stressful, espe-cially as the new web editor. Yet it has never been boring, and I doubt it ever will be, with so much more to learn. I’ll be back next year, no doubt about it.”

Jihira Patton: “I don’t even go here.”

U-Times May 2014 15

By Daniel WilliamsonStaff Writer

Four years ago the class of 2014 entered U. City as freshmen. Within those four years some of these students have evolved and changed in different ways, and it is evident to their teachers.

When several seniors were freshmen, their English teacher was Ms. Halter, who hasn’t taught 9th grade since 2012. Halter currently has a few of those students in her AP Literature class, including Reneise White, Aaron Little and Alana Mayo.

“It was a pleasure to watch them grow up over the past few years and watch them become young adults,” said Halter. “I think that the AP kids that I teach have outgrown high school and are ready to grow and change even more as people and students. I think that their approach to learning has changed; they want to participate more to further their education and seek out what they don’t already know.”

Another teacher that seniors had as freshmen was World History teacher Mr. Daly. Daly reminisced

fondly of the good old days in 2010 when Izaac Tobias and Brandon Grant were fresh from middle school.

“A great deal has certainly changed in the course of four years,” said Daly. “All of them are definitely at different places now than they were back then.”

Math teacher Mr. Kelton taught geometry to some of the seniors as freshmen, but one that stuck out to him was Molly Paterson.

“Molly changed a lot, but she kept her same personality,” said Kelton.

Ceramics teacher Ms. Harkins is rather sentimental towards this year’s senior class.

“This is the first graduating class that I’ve had since they were freshmen,” said Harkins.

Spanish teacher Ms. Abaray can hardly believe that the class of 2014 is about to graduate.

“Good lord, the seniors have changed since their freshman year,” said Abaray.PHOTOS BY ALEX JOLLIFF DESIGN BY KAYLA HOLMES

Izaac Tobias

“Izaac was very goofy,

which he still is, but he is more

focused now.” –Mr. Daly

U-Times May 2014 16Now

Molly Paterson “Molly came in a bit immature as a

freshman and has matured greatly over the last three years. Overall, I’d say that she has

gotten better since her freshman year.” –Mr. Kelton

“Crystal Clay was really shy as a freshman and is now really professional and has more focus on what she wants to do in life. I think that she is definitely ready to go into the world as a young adult.” –Ms. Abaray

“Aaron has matured into such a fine young man. He will have a lot of success in his life, and I wish him well.” –Ms. Halter

“Alana is super quiet, but she has a lot of good ideas. I hope she continues to gain confidence because she is really awesome.” –Ms. Halter

“Brandon seems like he is not going to let little things get to him. Whereas when he was a freshman they did get to him.” –Mr. Daly

Reneise White “I am proud of

Reneise for working so hard these

past four years. Now she is off

to Mizzou where she will continue her

fine work ethic and

achieve great things.”

–Ms. Halter

& ThenA

lana

May

o

Brandon Grant

Aaron Little

Crystal Clay

GO TO UTIMESONLINE.COM FOR MORE PHOTOS & STORIES