"No Child..." Impresses!

Review by Timothy McCollum

The stage play “No Child...” by Nilaja Sun is very touching and heartfelt. Play Director and Messmer Music Teacher Mr. Greg Flattery chose this for the annual Fall Play, and believe it, the play was magical. The production captured the hearts of the audience, and could really have changed a lot of people’s outlooks on drama in the public schools.

Sophomore Ishmael Ali had a role in the show and described his feelings, "Opening night was very nerve-wracking for everyone except me. Honestly I feel anytime I’m on a stage I’m the only one on the stage. I have to be the center of attention. To do that I have to be calm and relaxed, so opening night I was very prepared and ready to go.”

When asked if there was any connection between himself and his character, Ishmael said, “Yes there are connections. My character Brian is a class clown so of course it was easy for me to relate. I wouldn’t say I’m a class clown, but I am very funny at times. So the fact that I was given that role was PERFECT!" He continued, "This play had a big effect on some students... some cried when the janitor died. My parents were the very proud for my achievement in this play, and that really made me appreciate my role a lot more." Ishmael did an amazing job in the play, and overcame many things to accomplish what he did.

Another actor who really took the stage by storm was Senior Radontae Ashford who did a fantastic job playing trouble-maker Jerome. When asked if there were any similarities between himself and Jerome, Radontae said, “There are huge similarities between me and my character...we are both troublemakers in the class room. I don’t like to admit it but I am a bit of a clown in class; I joke around with almost the whole class just as Jerome did in the play. I also have a short temper at times especially when a teacher tries to talk down to me. It causes me to react just like Jerome did in the play, the only difference is that I don’t throw chairs (ha-ha). Lastly just as Ms. Sun saw potential in Jerome, my teachers see potential in me.”

Radontae was asked how the director, Mr. Flattery, helped prepare him for the play. “One thing he told me was to make sure I memorize my lines because forgetting them on stage can be a tragic situation. He also told me to be comfortable on stage as if it were another music performance, this way I would be able to relax and just let my lines come to me. Lastly the best advice I think he gave me was to be myself. He told me that he gave me the role of Jerome because the way I am in real life fits the character so well.” Radontae also said, “When I was chosen to be in the play I was completely shocked because I’ve never done a play before. My acting skills were terrible in my opinion and I felt like I wouldn’t be able to memorize all the lines. I even told Mr. Flattery that I rather not do the play and to let someone else who can act play the role of Jerome, but with a little pep talk from [Drama Teacher] Ms. [Maripat] Wilkinson and Mr. Flattery, I had the confidence to take on the challenge of being in the play."

Radontae said this play has shown him that drama is extremely fun. "First I felt it was all corny and boring, but now my outlook has changed. My former drama teacher Ms. Wilkinson would tell me all the time that I should try it out and I would just down talk it all the time. Now that I listened to her I see exactly what she meant. Drama is a great way to bond with new people and is an overall great experience to have in life. With that lesson from her, I’ve really gained a new love for drama, and will consider doing another play. Now I realize It’s fun and it has also taught me a lesson in life. I feel there’s so much I took from this experience and that’s why I would be willing to do it again."

Judging from what the cast and crew said about his directing, Mr. Flattery did an amazing job. He was more like a mentor to the students, and really helped them prepare for their roles. His support and guidance really pushed the students to deliver a brilliant play. Mr. Flattery reflected on the play's success, “I was very satisfied. You can always judge a show by how much ownership the cast has taken of the production, and they really took ownership of THEIR fall play. This was a play recommended by a friend named Marti Gobel. She talked to me about doing a play that would fit Messmer with its diversity of ethnicities.”

Mr. Flattery was also glad to see the turnout. “Usually, the plays don’t have many audience members, but this year the crowd really showed up. I believe the reason is because it was a play that connected with the population.” His goal is to have even more people attend in the future, and more students involved with theater. Mr. Flattery was asked if he thinks this play can open people eyes up about the power of drama, and he said, “Absolutely! I really think that it ended up being something the students connected with, and had them consistently asking when the next play was. So yes, it opened the eyes up to the students; seeing themselves doing a really good job showed them they can do anything.” The play's drama director character Ms. Sun would approve!

Breaking News: Channel 12 Reporter Visits Broadcast Media

11.18.11. The Broadcast Media classes combined today for a visit from Channel 12 News Reporter Mr. Jason Newton. Mr. Newton spoke about his life, career, and how to be successful in whatever field you choose. 

Mr. Newton shared stories about the challenges and rewards of his job, and the importance of teamwork especially in high-pressure, tight deadline situations. One of the hardest things about his job is having to talk to families where tragedies have occurred, especially if they involve children. The best thing about what he does is being able to inform the public of things that help. A recent co-sleeping tragic story was hard to do, but an important one to share because the information could prevent other similar tragedies.

Mr. Newton gave the Messmer reporters several good tips to improve their interviewing and reporting skills. He emphasized the importance of open-ended questions, research, language, and surprise. He said he tries to keep the audience interested by engaging their emotions and senses through powerful pictures, sounds, and "sound bites" from those directly involved in the story.

Mr. Newton answered the many questions the students had about his career, and spoke about the effect of technology and social media on the field of journalism.  He invited the classes to Channel 12 for a tour, and the students said they were now going to follow him on Twitter.

The students are grateful for the time Mr. Newton took to come to Messmer and connect what they are doing in school to the real world of Broadcast Journalism.

Fall Play: "No Child..." THIS WEEKEND!

TICKETS AT THE DOOR $2.00 for Students, $3.00 for Adults. No one under 12 admitted. Please no video or flash cameras and turn off all cell phones for the length of the performance.

We've Got Spirit--Yes We Do!

Messmer High was buzzing with excitement last week celebrating the fall sports and activities. The short "Spirit Week" consisted of door decorating contests, "Ugly Shirt Day," and a spirit 1/2 day full of activities and fun. 

"Spirit Day" started off with mini-classes on subjects as diverse as juggling, dancing, blanket making, cooking, team sports, and t-shirt design. These non-traditional classes were taught by Messmer faculty and were well received by the students. 

A pep rally followed with the pep band, the singing of the Messmer Rouser, class cheers, and relay races. 

The fall sports teams and club members were introduced and recognized for their achievements.

To end the day, students elected to watch a movie in the auditorium or dance and socialize in the gym. A highlight to the gym time was when more than 1/2 of the students and faculty joined together to dance the "Cupid Shuffle." 

                     Overall, "Spirit Week" was a great success!

Cross Country at the Finish Line

As the end of the Cross Country season, the team reflected on its success. There were some challenges that created barriers for good performance. One was described by Coach William Gunderson, “I wish we didn’t lose some of the runners, that hurt the team.” Even after that, the team didn’t lose hope or focus; they just kept trying and improving their times.

It was a good overall season for the runners, many of whom won medals for their hard work and determination. When asked if the season could have gone better, Senior Kenny Myatt said, “I think that there is always room for improvement, but the team did well.” There were times when the team felt that things didn’t go exactly as planned, but they always kept their heads up and worked as hard as they could.

You could tell that the team always supported each other and gave each other advice. Sophomore Anthony Williams said, “I was greatly impressed by the effort and execution of the 2011 team!” Next season, Coach Gunderson is hoping to see returning runners and off season training.

Messmer Day at Marquette U

Approximately 50 students spent the day at Marquette University recently to check out the Communications Department and get a feel for college life. The field trip included hands-on activities for the students. One of the highlights was the Broadcast TV Studio. Messmer students took over the jobs of director, camera operator, on air reporter, switcher operator, floor director, and teleprompter operator. 

These were new experiences for many of the students, and a potential career path for some. Sophomore Precious Medley was enthusiastic about the field trip and said, "I enjoyed being behind the camera." 

The tour included the Journalism Department where the college students saw firsthand how the MU newspaper is put together. It was interesting to hear about all the job responsibilities, and how many times an article is read, edited, and rewritten before it makes it to print. Messmer students practiced being journalists by interviewing each other with tips from the MU students. Sophomore Itzia Gutierrez remarked, "We had learned how to interview in Broadcast Media class, but it was nice to learn more and interact with the college students."

The third activity was provided by the Theater Department. Drama exercises, games, and improvisation made for much creativity and fun. Senior Robert Thompson said, "It made me very energetic." 

Messmer alumni who attend Marquette answered questions about college life, and gave good advice about admissions, preparation for college, and how to make the transition from high school. Jeffrey Cross, Justine Shorter, and Amelia Mitcham were great role models for the current high schoolers, and showed just how well Messmer prepares students for college. 

The day ended with brief presentations on admissions, financial aid, and other support programs MU offers. When Senior Kaila Griffin "high-fived" Messmer Teacher Ms. Maripat Wilkinson on the bus ride home, it was clear the field trip to Marquette was a success. See the slide show at top left for more images from the day.

Judge Rules Messwood is Playoff Eligible

http://shorewood.patch.com/articles/judge-rules-messmer-shorewood-is-playoff-eligible

Resurrection Dance Theater of Haiti Delivers

Messmer High School was very fortunate to have the Resurrection Dance Theater of Haiti perform for the school community recently. The dance company consisted of young men plucked  from the streets of Haiti, rescued from sleeping on cardboard boxes and severe abuse. To see these young men dance with so much enthusiasm and spirit was amazing. During the introduction the audience was told that due to the conditions of the country, the average age in Haiti is fifteen. This fact was shocking to the audience and made the students look at their own lives in comparison. 

Sophomore Timothy McCollum described how the performance affected him, "It showed me how people can go through things and still have faith in God, and it's amazing how they can still give back to others." Sophomore Travess Stone learned "Not to complain about what I don't have and just be thankful." Three fantastic drummers accompanied the dancers, and the youngest dancer, DiDi, 13, was featured in a number about life on the streets of Haiti. Senior Tierra Watson was brought up on stage to be a part of this performance. She said, "I had a good time up there protecting DiDi. I've never been pulled up on stage before--it was fun!" 

DiDi was asked how he got to be such a good dancer. He said, "Hard work and more hard work." The entire performance was outstanding and received a standing ovation. Messmer is grateful to have had the Resurrection Dance Theater of Haiti perform, inform, and entertain. See the video at top left of DiDi in action.

Girls of the Gridiron

"Anything you can do I can do better" is a popular phrase. However, when speaking about the new editions to the Messmer/Shorewood football team, it might be more appropriate to say, “Anything you can do, I can do also.” 

Messmer/Shorewood Varsity Football, also known as Messwood, is proud to have female Seniors Aereana Grandberry and Montyera Hale on the team. Their experience with the team is new, but they show the same dedication as the boys. Grandberry mentioned how they often hear comments from opposing teams, such as “Oh my God, that’s a girl!” “Are they serious?” and “Is she playing for real?” Grandberry feels the experience has been positive and said, “The [Messwood] boys encourage us and help us out a lot." 

As many can guess, Grandberry and Hale are under a lot of pressure as the only two girls on the team--and in the league. Hale said,  “Yes, it was [at first] intimidating, but we [girls] have to stick together. In the end the boys have really helped us fit in and feel a part of the team.”  The girls are really making a statement this year. They are working with their teammates to grow and achieve success this season under new Head Coach Mr. Drake Zortman and Defensive Coach Mr. Chad Hofmann. There are no female coaches--yet.

New Kids on the Block

Every year Messmer welcomes incoming freshman and transfer students into our family. Freshman Isioma Osademe said, “[Messmer] is a very different environment. I was nervous at first but I am OK now." These students learn that we are a family and stick together. One way we show our unity is through the Wednesday prayer services when we come together to worship God. 

Many of our students come from Messmer Prep and Sts. Rose/Leo's, others from several local schools and a few come from out of town. Senior transfer student Pamela Moore said, “Messmer is way different from my old school. I came from Indiana and at Messmer I am being challenged more."

Freshman Brianna Nash said, “My experience at Messmer is good so far because everyone is really nice and helpful and very respectful.

 

Welcome to Messmer!

Meet the Coach

Mr. Drake Zortman is the new head football coach for the Messmer/Shorewood football team. People may know him as the fourth coach of the program, but he has a larger background that may go unnoticed. Coach Zortman has more than 20 years of coaching experience under his belt. He has coached at his Alma Mater Carroll University, as well as Waukesha West, Whitefish Bay, Nicolet, and Homestead high schools. He has also been recognized by CNI newspapers with an honorable mention for coach of the year in 2003.

Mr. Zortman has his Masters in Education from National Louis University. He uses his teaching skills as a math teacher at both Messmer and Shorewood high schools. When asked what he admires most about coaching, he said he likes “watching the athletes grow into young adults and I like to think that I’m doing it the right way.” He, along with the coaching staff, takes pride in building character and teaching discipline. Coach Zortman also admires “seeing kids not just be successful on the athletic field but seeing them be successful in the classroom.” He likes to see the success of the students in the community and to watch them grow into good parents themselves. 

For the team, his goal has been first to have more wins than losses. He wants the team to make the playoffs. He also wants to make sure that the players understand that “they need to be on time and they need to be there every day so that they may play and win the game.” Senior Jamaal Hayes said, “Coach [Zortman] is making the right choices in order for us to succeed.” Messmer HIgh School Athletic Director Ms. Joy Bretsch remarked, "Coach Zortman brings a wealth of football knowledge and coaching experience to our program. We are excited to have such a quality leader in our effort to rebuild the football program here at Messmer/Shorewood." 

The team now has a record of 3 wins and 1 loss in conference play and is taking the right steps towards an historic season.

Soccer Fan Bus!

Come out and support the soccer team when it faces University School at Uihlein Field this Wednesday October 5th. There will be a fan bus leaving Messmer High at 4:00 and returning at approximately 6:30. Students, get your permission slips from Ms. Bretsch by 10/4.

Support a Good Cause: Dig Pink!

The volleyball teams are hosting a Breast Cancer Fundraiser on October 6th at 3:45, 4:30 and 6:00 at Messmer High School. The Freshman, JV and Varsity teams will be playing games with a special pink volleyball. There will be many activities the fans can participate in such as face painting, raffles,and games. They will also be able to buy pink shirts, bracelets, cupcakes and much more.The money raised will be donated to a local Breast Cancer foundation. Come and support families of breast cancers survivors and loved ones who have passed away from breast cancer.

It's An Honors Seminar

Messmer High honor students recently attended a seminar at Marquette University. The Honors Seminar was two days of tours, lectures, networking, and growth. Messmer Seniors Rosaelena Fetes and Lillian Rodezno have been to the seminar many times. Lilly said, "[The Honors Seminar] sets you up for the upcoming challenges in college." Rosy said, "It gets you recognized. It shows that you took harder classes and still balanced [your grades] enough to keep at least a 3.2 average. It [also] helps with your future."

Both students said they loved the lecture presented by Messmer English Teacher Mr. Tim Gallagher, the tour [of Marquette], and the food. Mr. Gallagher wants the students to know the sole purpose of the seminar is to help them think about things differently, engage, and approach events from a higher level of thinking. This year the sophomore class has 35 students in the honors program, the largest number ever for Messmer. These students are setting the bar high for the rest of the school and setting themselves up for success.

See Slide Show at left for more pictures.