Neoga FFA Horse Judging

9/23/11

by Becca Warfel

Neoga’s chapter of the FFA recently travelled to Rockin’ A Ranch in Charleston to participate in horse judging. On September 13^th competitors judged six classes of horses including four riding classes and two conformation classes. The students placed the entries from 1^st to 4^th and were awarded points according their proximity to the official judging. In addition to the judging, the team was asked to complete a written test of horse related questions. When the scores were revealed, Neoga placed 4^th out of 11 teams and competitor Becca Warfel placed 5^th overall. The team was then awarded a plaque for their efforts.

“It was very successful and a good way to start the school year. I hope to continue to have this much success throughout the year,” said Ms. Walker. This was the first competition for her in her career as Neoga’s agriculture teacher and FFA advisor.

NHS Commemorates Patriot's Day

by Kendra Schooley

9/22/2011

“I pledge allegiance to the flag of The United States of America.” This patriotic phrase is one of the most common things known in America. On September 11, 2001, our country suffered one of the most infamous terrorist attacks in history.

The Neoga High School observed Patriot’s Day on Friday September 9. In honor of those affected on 9/11, the Neoga band played “The National Anthem” and “America the Beautiful.” Mr. Schultz who was backed up by Kyle Ludwig played “Echo Taps.” Neoga’s Rescue workers were honored, as were some veterans that are members of the Sigel American Legion.

During the ceremony, the Boy and Girl Scouts commenced a flag raising ceremony. Mr. Michael Williams, who is currently a faculty member at the Elementary School, spoke about patriotism. The Sigel American Legion veterans engaged in a 21 gun salute. When Mrs. Vicky Ludwig was asked about the assembly, and how it turned out, she quoted, “everything turned out as it should have.” It was a very eye-opening ceremony for both the faculty and students.

Black and White (an original poem)

By: Lauren Becker

9/15/2011

When I was a child

I saw in black and white

everything was obvious

either right or wrong

no arguments, no pros and cons

choices were precise

pure and joyous clarity

gave me a simple life

so I grew and learned to face the world

living life that way

and now I feel so unprepared

cause black and white turned to gray

my unfaltering vision failed

focus left my eyes

where choices were once obvious

I can’t tell right from wrong

Because today I am a teenager

And nothing’s quite so clear

I’m seeing through an adult’s eyes

A child’s biggest fear.

New NHS Staff

By: Kendra Schooley

9/15/2011

There have been many changes this year at Neoga High School -- not just in the handbook, or with the school -- but with the faculty as well. This year Neoga High has acquired four new faculty members.

Mr. Nick Schulze is the new band teacher. Mr. Schulze grew up in a small town. He enjoys working in a small school because there are few enough kids that you get to know everyone, including the students who are not in band. Mr. Schulze plans on continuing the legacy Mr. Doug McClure. He also plans on taking students to IMEA.

Mr. Clay Haurberg was hired as the Boys Physical Education teacher, as well as the coach of the Boys Basketball team. He previously worked at Georgetowne Middle School and Galva High School. Mr. Hauerberg is bringing over 15 years of teaching experience to the Neoga school district, which is certainly beneficial. When asked about his thoughts regarding Neoga, he said, “I love it! It’s been a very good first week. My family and I look forward to being part of this wonderful community.”

Ms. Marlene Walker was hired as the Agriculture Department teacher. Ms. Walker grew up in Windsor, Illinois. She loves teaching in a small town. “Everyone is treating me very politely,” replied Ms. Walker when she was asked how everyone is adjusting to a new teacher. When she was in high school, she was a member of FFA. She grew up living on a farm, and still lives on one. Ms. Walker is looking forward to taking the FFA students on many field trips and helping the agriculture department students learn about the agriculture community.

Mr. Jay Koester is the new Industrial Arts teacher. Mr. Koester also grew up in a small town, and he enjoys working in a rural area. When asked about his students, he replied, “Kids are good, well behaved, and very enjoyable so far.” His goals for Neoga are to make Neoga’s technology program one of the better ones in Illinois Technology Education.

NHS Yearbook Release Party

9/12/2011

The annual NHS Yearbook Release Party will be held on Monday, September 19th, from 6 to 8 PM in the cafeteria. There will be an Ice Cream Social sponsored by Student Council, as well. As a change of pace, the Student Council decided to host this party during the NHS open house in order to encourage more students to attend.