presented by Broadcast Media Class

Music Concert Puts All in the Spirit

      12/16/10. The Messmer High School Choirs and Bands put on a Christmas Concert tonight which really put the audience in the holiday spirit.
     The performance began with "The King Shall Come" presented in beautiful style and harmony by the Messmer Chamber Ensemble.
     A wide variety of holiday music was performed in the concert including carols from different countries, as well as standards where the audience could join in.
     Over 100 students from 6 performing groups participated in the concert as part of the MHS music program, entirely under the direction of Mr. Greg Flattery.
     At this week's prayer service, along with a  concert preview, Mr. Flattery told a very personal Christmas story about his family history that touched staff and students.
 
     See Video at left for a few concert moments.

Out for Blood

      12/15/10. The Messmer High Leadership Class along with the Student Council hosted the Blood Center of Wisconsin today for their semi-annual blood drive.
     Students ages 16 and up who met the criteria were able to donate, and took advantage of the opportunity to make a difference at critical points in people's lives.
     Senior David Hollins III, decided to give blood for the first time. He said it was because, "I found out how much my blood type is needed."
     Junior Gregory Spencer, also a first time donor, said, "I feel good about giving blood because I feel like I helped someone, maybe saving someone's life."
     Senior Shameka Moore volunteered to help at the event and said, "I feel so ecstatic to see our young people supporting those who are sick or need blood tranfusions. It touches my heart because it doesn't take long to give blood and save someone's life."
      Blood Center staff member Mr. Patrick Elliot said the students were all very helpful and respectful.  Leadership Class Instructor Mr. Mike Hennicke was thrilled with the turnout and how well the student volunteers ran the blood drive.
     There will be another opportunity for Messmer students to donate blood later this school year.

Students of the Months

     Students were honored for the months of October and November at a recent prayer service. 
    Described as a responsible, excellent student who makes good choices, and a participant in 11 different MHS clubs and activities over the past four years, the first Student of the Month for October was Senior Markesha Harris. 
     Hardworking, determined, polite, easy to get along with and smart were just some of the words used to describe the next honoree. In addition to his consistently high grade point average, he has been a valuable member of Messmer's baseball, basketball, and track teams. The second October Student of the Month was Senior Michael Bonds.
     The first November recipient is said to be hardworking, independent, dedicated and trustworthy. She is able to balance her job and school work while maintaining a good attitude, always being respectful to others. The first November Student of the Month was Quan Dinh Hoang Truc.
     The Juniors cheered for one of their own as the last honoree was described as a scholar who works hard and participates in class in a positive, upbeat manner. She takes pride in her work, and is always there to help classmates. The second Student of the Month for November was Rosalina Fletes.
     Stay tuned to this blog to find out who the worthy honorees will be for December!

MHS Band Peps Up Bradley Center

     The Messmer High Pep Band got a rare chance to play at the Bradley Center before a recent Bucks game. Directed by Music Teacher Mr. Greg Flattery, the band got to feel the thrill of their notes bouncing off the corners of the huge venue.
     Along with revving up the pregame crowd, the students were able to stay and witness all the excitement of the game.
      Mr. Flattery said the band did the school proud, and plans to take any possible opportunity for Messmer musicians to share their talents outside of school. Both the performers and the audience gain from these Arts experiences. 
     It's even better when a cheer-worthy performance by the students is followed by a chance for them to cheer for other high quality performers.  Go MHS Band and Go Bucks!

Food Drive Scavenger Hunt

     Members of the Messmer High School Service Club spent a recent Saturday morning collecting food for the House of Peace. The students went door to door in a specific neighborhood where the residents were asked ahead of time for items of particular importance this time of year. 
     Organized by Theology Teacher Mrs. Chris Nienhaus, students from all grades participated in this unique scavenger hunt. The goal was to fill boxes for needy families with holiday food items such as corn bread mix, cranberry sauce, stuffing, and cake mix. The amount the club collected exceeded its hopeful expectations.
 
     Senior Bianca Reid was touched by the experience and said that it gave her a new outlook on life. At one of the homes, a woman told her that her husband had just moved out that morning leaving her alone to take care of their children. Bianca said, "When I heard this I reflected on myself and how I view life. Now when I feel down and out, I know I shouldn't because someone else can have it worse."
      That point was brought home for the students as they packed up the food into boxes for needy families. It helped them be grateful for what they will have during the holidays, while helping others in the process. 
     Service Club provides Messmer students with many opportunities throughout the year to make a difference in the Milwaukee area and beyond.

BBall Season Tips Off

     The Messmer High boy's basketball season started with a win by the Junior Varsity against Racine St. Catherine at home. JV started and ended the game strong scoring 52 points. JV player Carlton Leroy stated, "It was an exciting first home game, people didn't think we would win, but we overcame all adversities." 
     The Varsity lost to Racine St. Catherine by 15 points, but came back with a win that same week against West Allis Central, a tough team. The Bishops scored 91 points in that victory. JV Coach and Social Studies Teacher Mr. Justin Armitage had positive words for the upcoming season, "Varsity has potential for a great season, if continue to play strong defensively."


     The Lady Bishops Varsity started out their season with a win at home game against Hope School, scoring 52pts. Varsity player Chante Hollished said "It was a great start to the season, we showed a lot of teamwork, dedication, and love for the game." The girl's JV first game at home was a loss but it was a close one. JV player Diane Carson had a good experience despite the loss and said, "It was very exciting since this is my first time really playing basketball and experiencing the full swing of an actual game."

Alice in Urbanland

     The Messmer High Drama Club put on the play “Alice” November 19th and 20th. “Alice,” written by Whoopi Goldberg, is an inner-city version of “Alice in Wonderland.”  
     In this version, Alice has a dream of winning a sweepstakes worth millions of dollars. Her dream came true but before she even got the money she became greedy and betrayed her friends with her stuck-up ideas for the money.
     On her crazy journey through the city she meets all kinds of people and runs into several challenges. Through her experiences she ends up learning that money isn’t everything and her true riches are her friends.
The show was a great success due to the funny scenes, emotional changes, and the mystery of the plot. H’Vyn Jones, who played the role of Alice, did a tremendous job of displaying just the right emotion and energy.
     Jade Hendricks, as Alice’s loyal imaginary friend J de Rabbit, stood out because of her confidence and stage presence. Humor was provided by Neena Matthews and Ashley Jordan who performed a rap entitled “Pass the Hat” on the subway.
     Messmer Music Teacher Mr. Greg Flattery directed the production, which also included a great behind-the-scenes crew.
Cast:
Announcer: Anwuri Osademe
Alice: H’Vyn Jones
J de Rabbit: Jade Hendricks
Robin: Jasmine Kendrick
Mailperson: Jasmine Davis-Evans
Betty: Kianna Greene
Street Person #1: Amber Floyd
Sherman: Trenton Fields
Street Person #2: Giovanni Rodriguez
Mrs. Ima Rump: Claudijah Lever
Mr. William Lowdown: Samuel Briggs
Ronald: Jordan Taylor
Jaz: Ashley Jordan
Kooli Kool Bob: Neena Matthews
Subway Policeman: Jasmine Davis-Evans
The Fortune Teller: Olivia Knight
Street Person #3: Serina Jones

Carson Represents

     Messmer High Freshman Jonathan Carson was recently invited to try out for the USA Basketball team. Jonathan was one of only a few freshmen, and the only player from Messmer High School to participate in this wonderful opportunity. He traveled to Colorado Springs, Colorado this October for the try-out. During the 4 day camp his stay consisted of going to the Olympic Training Center every morning to train, stretch, and do some conditioning. Jonathan was one of 35 players from all parts of the country working for the same goal.
     Jonathan has been influenced by Lebron James of the Miami Heat and says, “Lebron inspires me because he’s a role model. He loves his job and doesn’t let people control him.” That’s a good person to look up to if you are trying to go into the same career. When asked if he felt he had a chance to make the USA team, Jonathan replied, “Yes, I worked my hardest and gave them all I had.” He will find out in April if he made the next cut. But in this case, considering there were only 35 students from the entire country invited to try out, it is truly an honor just to be nominated.
     Jonathan, a graduate of St. Rose and St. Leo Catholic School where he was valedictorian, will be playing for Messmer High this season, and is looking forward to it, “I’m overly excited because this is my first year of high school and I’m ready to show people what I can do as a freshman. During this [USA Team] experience I learned how to be a better leader on and off the court and how to be a talker on the court.” We’re rooting for you, Jonathan—you do Messmer proud!

Family Fun Night

   11/19/10. Last night Messmer Catholic Schools held a Family Fun Night at Messmer High School where families came to enjoy different activities such as face painting, cartoon drawing, bounce houses, Laser Tag, and Karaoke.  
     The families could enjoy refreshments and lounging in the cafeteria and use the pool. A lot of the Messmer students and their families had a great time at Family Fun Night. 
     Almost everyone ended up at some point in the night in the auditorium enjoying Karaoke. Every year students and families from all three Messmer schools participate in this event.
     Family Fun NIght is a great way to meet other families, and enjoy each other in a family friendly environment.