Operation Christmas Child

By Rachel Bookbinder

Even though Christmas is few months away, it doesn't mean that giving has to begin there. Children in third world countries are not as fortunate as many of us in the United States. For many children, December 25th is just another day struggling to find food and clean water. They don't wake up on Christmas morning with the excitement to  to see gifts are under the Christmas tree. 

This year, our Anchor club sponsored and promoted Operation Christmas Child for our students and families. This organization asked people to donate shoeboxes filled with children's toys, necessary hygiene utensils, and a Bible to send to the children in different countries.  Participating in this service project helps to spread the Word of God to all the children who may not know about Jesus.

The Anchor Club advisor, Mrs. Fontaine, hoped the school would donate at least 100 hundred shoeboxes. Her expectations were greatly exceeded when she found out that the whole school donation totaled 349 boxes. The Anchor Club was thrilled to hear that the whole school was as excited as serving others as they were.  Thank you to those students and families who participated by sharing their Christmas.
 

Fall Fest was a Huge Success

 

  By: Madeline Seiberlich
This year the Fall Festival was awesome! I hope all of you were able to attend because it was definitely something worth talking about. The field was totally transformed into a huge fall celebration filled with tons of booths and lots of activities to participate in! There was a cupcake walk, a photo booth, bean bag toss, mask and face painting, and even a petting zoo!  I think one of everyone’s favorite things was the dunk tank. Especially since it gave the students the opportunity to dunk some of their favorite teachers and fellow classmates. The Fall Festival was also filled with prizes, including the chance to win a goldfish and earn tons of candy!  Overall, the Fall Festival was a huge success this year, and I think it was the perfect thing to get everyone in the fall mood. 

   

Homecoming Week is here!

 

Homecoming is just around the corner here at St. John, with several events leading up to the big weekend. The big football game and coronation of the Homecoming Queen and Court will take place on the night of Friday, November 9, at home.  Before the game, alumni will be gather at an informal tailgate party at Brick City starting at 6 pm.  Game kickoff is at 7:30 pm. 

The Winter Wonderland themed dance for the high school students will be held on Saturday, November 10, from 7:30pm-11:30pm, in the Grand Ballroom of the Ocala National Bank building. 

But, before all of that, a fun-filled spirit week has been planned for all grades to participate in: Monday will be pajama day, and Tuesday, students can dress up as their favorite character or super hero.

Tuesday is also the huge all school Pep Rally at 7 pm in the Saints Gym.   The cheerleaders will get everyone fired up for the week ahead, students will perform skits, sports teams in grades 5th-12th will be introduced, and then high school students will attend the annual bonfire!  

Wednesday is favorite sports team day, where students can wear jerseys or dress up as full on sports players. Thursday is called “Alpha and Omega Day,” where students are encouraged to dress as either old or young people. Finally, Friday will be SAINTS spirit day, and blue and gold will be worn by all. Remember to participate from November 5-9 to prepare for St. John’s exciting homecoming week!

Happy fall ya'll

By: Madeline Seiberlich

The weather is getting cooler, pumpkins are being sold, and leaves will hopefully start changing soon… This can only mean one thing; it’s time for the Fall Festival! On Thursday, October 18 from 4-7pm be sure to make your way to the back field to enjoy some fall time festivities! Whether you love playing games, getting candy, or doing arts and crafts the St. John Fall Fest will have it all! This is event is for everyone so be sure to invite your friends and family members! Hope to see you there! Happy fall ya’ll!

Forensics with Mrs. Fontaine

 

Have you ever wondered what it would be like to solve a crime scene? Well now you can right here at St. John! Mrs. Fontaine has started a new class on forensics this year for seniors in high school.
This class is all about solving crimes through the means of science.

Mrs. Fontaine wanted to start a very hands-on class that was available to non-science majors. She hopes it will peak student interest in science in college. The class is very hands-on and has many fun and educational labs to keep the students interested in the subject, while teaching them about the criminal justice system.

The course is fun, but it also requires a lot of work and thinking capacity. Mrs. Fontaine thinks the students will be most challenged by using their deductive reasoning skills to solve criminal cases.

The course will cover plenty of topics regarding forensic science. Mrs. Fontaine noted that a few topics covered in class will be trace evidence, criminal sketching, blood and bone analysis, and plenty more. Each chapter includes a hands-on lab that focuses on forensic investigation. For example, the class does do crime scene sketching, digital photography, and activities like that. In each chapter there is a criminal case that the class has to solve by using the forensic skills they learned so far in this course. This class also gives the students knowledge about the criminal justice system.

"Class has been very exciting so far! The students have been talking on Facebook and discussing results on the summer murder case that they tried to solve in class," said Mrs. Fontaine

Mrs. Fontaine seems very excited to teach forensics.  Eddie Cruz is a student in Mrs. Fontaine’s forensics class and he said, “I am looking forward to learning a lot more about criminology. I’m also interested what it’s like to investigate crime scenes. Class-wise,  I’m looking forward to labs and investigating crime scenes.”

High school students, be sure to check out forensics class when you’re a senior at St. John! 

Musical Visitor Entertains Our Elementary

An Artist Visits St. John

 

by Britani Jurkowski

The Pied Piper got to wear a cool hat and hold a recorder

                On Tuesday October 1^st, the preschoolers and elementary school students were visited by a special guest: a professional musician by the name of Ms. Donna Wissinger came to share her music and stories with the children. She prepared several fun activities, such as acting out the story of the Pied Piper. All the preschool through second grade kids were able to participate as they acted out parts like the mayor, the rats, the villagers, and of course the piper! Another cool activity she led included the children placing their hands on their heart as she played different tunes on her golden flute. The children were then asked how the music made them feel. They came up with great words like “amazing,” “happy,” “soothed,” and “excited.”

           The third through fifth graders had a great time as well, especially when they learned how different materials and sizes create different musical sounds. In addition, Ms. Donna told the students the legends of William Tell and Robin Hood. Through her music and stories, she encouraged the children to read and write in order to learn new things. Her legends had a moral of always putting forth your best effort and never quitting. At the end of each assembly, the musician played “Yankee Doodle” on the piccolo while the students marched in rhythm back to their classrooms. Ms. Donna’s high energy and talent made for a wonderful event. The students had a great time and are so thankful!

The "rats" got to wear hand-made masks!

Pop Tab Pandemonium

by Britani Jurkowski
  

On average, America goes through 24 billion cans of soda each year. That’s 24 billion pop tabs that could potentially get thrown away and go to waste. What exactly is a pop tab, you might ask? Pop tabs are the aluminum ovals found on top of soda cans. They’re easy to pull off and can even help raise money! This year, St. John will be collecting pop tabs for the Ronald McDonald House of Tampa Bay. When the company recycles these tabs, they earn money to help provide an affordable and safe place for families to stay, should their child have to stay at a hospital far from home. This ensures that patients have their families nearby for support, without having to worry about large expenses. As always, the program is going to be a competition among participating schools in Florida.

This effort was launched by our PTL this year and students can bring their pop tabs to chapel every Wednesday.  Start collecting tabs at home, ask friends and family members to collect, keep a collection cup at your business, ask anyone you might know to help support this worthy cause.  All pop tabs will be given to the Ronald McDonald House of Tampa Bay at the end of the school year and weighed.  The school with the largest amount of pop tabs will be this years winner.  In the past, participants have won technology items, such as computers, for their school. The pop tabs will be collected all year long, so be sure to contribute to this great cause!

"Plaidypus Lost"

Sophia named her plaidypus "Rosie"

Cody chose blue eyes for his "plaidypus"
to match his own

By: Britani Jurkowski & Madeline Seiberlich

This week the kindergarteners were very excited to receive their very own “plaidypues” just like in the book “Plaidypus Lost” that they read. The story was about a little girl who received a stuffed “plaidypus” made out of her grandfather’s plaid shirt. She takes her “plaidpus” on many adventures and one time he gets lost. To help find him, she makes some posters and this was Sophia’s favorite part of the story. Just like the story, each kindergartener received their own “plaidypus.” The students also got to make their own signs for lost toys. In the end of the story, the little girl finds her “plaidypus” and he ends up needing a few patches sewn on him.  It was exciting for the kindergarteners because they got to help in making their own"plaidypus" and they even got to choose colored buttons for their eyes and sew them on!  Cody picked out blue buttons for his “plaidypus” to match his own eyes. When the kindergarteners were all done, they each gave a name to their new friend and were excited to bring them home to have adventures of their own.

Peyton sews the eyes on her 'plaidypus'

 

The Kindergarten class is very proud of their 'plaidypus' project.

See You At The Pole

By: Madeline Seiberlich

See You At The Pole is an annual event that takes place all over our country. Our school has been participating in this event for over a decade. This year we are inviting everyone in our school and their families to meet at the flag pole in the front of the school on Wednesday, September 26 at 7A.M.  When you first arrive, the Chapel Band will be providing us with one or two praise songs to kick things off. Mr. Heath, advisor for Prayer Force, will open us in a word of prayer. Then we will break off into small groups and pray with and for each other. Finally, Tim Briggs will close in another group prayer.  SYATP will only last about 20 minutes so be sure to be there and enjoy a morning full of praise and prayer.

“This event is so important to us and our school because it provides us with a time where we are able to bring everyone together and pray to God. This event also helps us to celebrate our freedom in America that we have to be able to pray and worship God," says Mr. Heath.

St. John welcomes Mary Hurst

Ms. Mary Hurst teachers Spanish to middle school and high school students at St. John.

Written by Britani Jurkowski

                This year, the Saints have welcomed a few new faces to the faculty, one of them being   Ms. Mary Hurst. Mrs. Hurst traveled all the way from Connecticut to teach Spanish in the High School, and so far, she loves it: “The students and the faculty are wonderful,” she says. Mrs. Hurst has been teaching Spanish for 22 years. She says she always knew, even as a young girl, that she wanted to be a teacher; however, it wasn’t until she took a trip to Mexico when she was in high school that she decided she wanted to teach Spanish. When it comes to teaching a foreign language, she finds it somewhat challenging to help all the students reach a point where they are comfortable enough to communicate verbally and have conversations with each other, but when they finally do, she says it’s one of her favorite parts of teaching. When asked if she had any tips on how to succeed in a high school Spanish class, she suggested students do all of the homework out loud and practice using the online textbook, especially with the audio activities. That being said, she wants nothing but success for her students and is looking forward to a great year!

Hats on for Pasta for Pennies

Saints third graders show their passion for Pasta for Pennies by wearing hats last Friday. 
All proceeds from this event are donated to the Leukemia & Lymphoma society.

Pasta for Pennies kicked off this week! Students are encouraged to gather spare change in efforts to help raise money for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. The fundraiser is fun and easy because every cent counts! Each classroom is their own team, and they'll be competing for two weeks. At the end of that time, the classes who raise the most money will proudly hang a banner in their room: $100-$199 receive a bronze banner, and $200-$299 receive a silver banner. In addition, the classroom that raises the most money overall will be treated to an "Olive Garden Celebration Party." To raise even more money, students were allowed to wear a hat Friday, September 7 (see photo above), and again this Friday, September 14, if they pay $1.00 to their teacher. More information can be found in students' Friday Folders. Best of luck to all the St. John students as they work to raise money for this great cause!  The last day to donate is this Friday.  A special thank you to Mrs. Westol for coordinating this effort to give back to our community.

*Anyone may donate!  If you would like to donate, please give your donation to a student, teacher, or bring to the front office.*

Blue & Gold Writer, Madeline Seiberlich

Madeline Kate Seiberlich (Wolf), a spunky sophomore of the St. John Lutheran halls, always brings that bit of spirit to those around her. At 15, she enjoys playing tennis and ballet, as well as listening to alternative and singer ,song writer style of music. She has attended St. John since preschool and hopes to take her life to the missionary field in the east. Her love for tacos and her best friends keeps Madeline going in life. John 14:27 is her motto and everyone who meets her experiences that Madeline “charm”.

Meet Rachel Bookbinder, Blue & Gold Writer

Rachel Bookbinder is a 15 year old sophomore who has been attending St. John Lutheran School for five years. She loves eating cherry craisins and listening to her favorite singers, like One Direction and Ed Sheeran. Ed Sheeran is more than just another singer to Rachel though; he is someone she looks up to.  One of the reasons she looks up to Ed is because she admires the fact that he is not afraid to be himself by writing his own songs, wearing his signature red hoodie when performing, and always playing with his favorite, old, well worn in guitar. A lot of Rachel’s free time is spent behind the comfort of her own guitar. Not only does she enjoy writing her own songs, but she also loves to draw and is an amazing artist!

One of Rachel’s favorite bible verses is Romans 8:30-31,  What, then, shall we say in response to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us? He who did not spare his own Son, but gave him up for us all—how will he not also, along with him, graciously give us all things?

Having God as number one in her life is the most important thing to Rachel. Without God we would be nothing. He is the one who makes all things possible.

An Interview Britani Jurkowski, Blue & Gold Writer

  Britani Jurkowski is a new student here at St. John Lutheran High School. She recently moved here from Pennsylvania to attend St. John when father became the new pastor at St. John Lutheran church. Her two younger siblings attend St. John elementary school. In Pennsylvania, she attended a public school, so moving from a public to a private school has been a transition for her, but she found her place in our school’s High School Chapel Band. She can play the piano and the drums, but she prefers playing the drums. Visit chapel on Wednesday and see Britani perform!  She also used to participate in many theatrical performances in Pennsylvania. Welcome to our St. John family, Britani! 

Meet your Saints Blue & Gold Staff for the year

We hope you had a restful summer with lots of memories!! Welcome back to a wonderful year at St. John Lutheran School.  Each new semester, brings many things..... sports, back to school gatherings, lots of school supplies, anticipation for the years activities & brand new students.  This year, we are excited to welcome three new students to the Blue & Gold..... Brittani, Madeline & Rachel will be your writers for the blog this year & they are off to a great start!!

Make sure you comment on their stories... we love to hear feedback!  Submit story ideas & photos - we would love to post your thoughts!  Watch for the next post.... our writers bio and photo so you can get know them a little better!

Senior Moment: Danny Lee Meredith

Danny Lee Meredith - Born: September 15, 1993

How long have you attended St. John? 3 years
Favorite St. John memory? When Lisette poked my eye.
Favorite teacher/class, why? Each teacher in their own way.
Future plans/"next step?" To continue learning and change the world.
How St. John has prepared you for the "next step?" Everybody in school, the teachers, and the environment has prepared me for the "next step".
Dream occupation? Entrepreneur/ Philanthropist.
Embarrassing moment? Break-dancing with a sprained knee in the front of the school.
Funny fact? I can lick my nose with my tongue.
Favorite quote/memory verse? "To err is human, but to forgive is divine."
Someone who inspires you? Gandhi
Favorite hobbies/sports? Living, loving, laughing.

Senior Moment: Sudie Genevieve Bellow



Sudie Genevieve Bellow - Born: March 27, 1994

How long have you attended St. John? 6 years

If you could go back to one grade, which one and why? If I could go back to a different grade, I honestly do not think I would because that would just be one more year of school.

Favorite St. John memory? My favorite St. John memory would have to be when Tori and I were freshman. During that year, we had art class with Beau and Lance, and we would sing every song that came on 93.7 in the morning.
Who is your favorite teacher/class and why? Mr. Liakos is my favorite teacher because he has a great sense of humor and he's funny. When I had him in 9th grade, I was so scared of him that he would make me cry. Looking back on that, I laugh because now he is my favorite teacher.

What are your future plans or "next step"? The future plan that I am looking forward to is going to college and finding something that I am interested in doing. I honestly don't know what I'm interested in doing yet. It's scary to think about, but my mom says that it's okay because it happens to everyone. 

How has St. John prepared you for the "next step"? St. John has prepared me for the future because this school is college bound and is more difficult. I have also challenged myself throughout the years to take honor classes.
Dream Occupation? My dream job is to be a model but I also want to go to college for event planning as a back-up plan.
Embarrassing moment? My most embarrassing moment was when I had a crush on this boy in my class. He was walking behind me down the stairs, and I lost my footing and slipped down the stairs.
Funny Fact? A funny fact about me is that I actually went to homecoming with TJ Mottl. :)

What is your favorite quote or memory verse? "Love is giving someone the power to break your heart but trusting them not to."
Someone who inspires you? The main person in my life that inspires me would have to be my father. He is no longer here with me physically, but he is spiritually. I know what he would want for me and that would only be the best. So through everything that I do, I try to make him proud because I know he is looking over me and watching me.
What are your favorite hobbies or sports? Cheer leading, playing with my new puppy, mudding at Hogwaller, fishing, of course shopping, and brightening anyone's day in every way that I can.

Senior Moment: Stephen Robert Bollinger

Stephen Robert Bollinger - Born: October 18, 1993

How long have you attended St. John? 9 years

If you could go back to one grade, which one and why? 9th grade because it was fun. 

Favorite St. John memory? When my whole 9th grade English class started singing the song, "Disturbia", by Rihanna.
Who is your favorite teacher/class and why? Mr. Heath's English class because he is awesome..

What are your future plans or "next step"? Go to college and get a job.
 How has St. John prepared you for the "next step"? By giving me the education I need to succeed.
Embarrassing moment? Forgetting my lines in a play.
What is your favorite quote or memory verse? John 3:16, "For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life."

Someone who inspires you? God
What are your favorite hobbies and/or sports? Filming, football, and basketball.

Senior Moment: Melanie Rouyer



Melanie Rouyer - Born: April 19, 1994

How long have you attended St. John? 6 months

If you could go back to one grade, which one and why? Freshman year because I had great teachers and had so much fun with my class.
Favorite St. John memory? Homecoming court
Who is your favorite teacher/class and why? Mr. Lausier because he loves to share gossip with us and Ms. Gieseke because she is very nice and takes care of her students.

What are your future plans or "next step"? Travel definitely. I really want to see different places around the world but right now I have to go back to France for one more year of high school. 

How has St. John prepared you for the "next step"? St. John has prepared me because I feel more confident about myself and my capability to speak English well. I also got to experience what the typical American high school is like.
Dream Occupation? I would like to travel around the world and be a veterinarian for wild animals.

Funny Fact? When I called a person's name in the French pronunciation and found out it means something totally different in America.

Someone who inspires you? My host mom because she is always there for her family as well as her friends and gives her heart for everybody.
What are your favorite hobbies or sports? Swimming and cheer leading

Senior Moment: Kelsey Dian Orr

Kelsey Dian Orr

How long have you attended St. John? 4 years

If you could go back to one grade, which one and why? Sophomore year! It was the best year because  friends were close and homecoming was amazing!

What is your favorite St. John memory? Sophomore homecoming because it was a great time with friends and it was a lot of fun.

Who is your favorite teacher or class and why? Mr. Liakos in trigonometry because it was always a lively class; I learned a lot and played a lot.

What are your future plans or "next step"? To go to college and hopefully open my own specialty cake shoppe.

How has St. John prepared you for the "next step"? Besides the actual things we learn, the teachers are so helpful and are there for you when you need it.

What is your dream occupation? To become a bakery owner or cake decorator.

Funny fact? I make people laugh by my laugh.

Who is someone that inspires you? My taekwondo instructor.

What are your favorite hobbies and/or sports? Taekwondo

Senior Moment: Victoria Ann Rivera

Victoria Ann Rivera - Born: May 2, 1994

How long have you attended St. John? 12 years

If you could go back to one grade, which one and why? 8th grade because I loved how close our class was and how much fun the keys trip was.

Favorite St. John memory: 2011 Homecoming
Who is your favorite teacher/class and why? Mr. Liakos because he makes teaching interesting and easy to understand which is why trig is my favorite class.

What are your future plans or "next step"? Go to Samford University in Birmingham and major in exercise science.

How has St. John prepared you for the "next step"? Giving me all the fundamentals through honors and AP classes.

Dream occupation? Physical Therapist
What is your favorite quote or memory verse? 1 Corinthians 13:4, "Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud."
Someone who inspires you? My mommy
What are your favorite hobbies or sports? Tennis, shopping, wii! 

Senior Moment: Shelby Dee Nazzari




Shelby Dee Nazzari - Born: June 13, 1993

How long have you attended St. John? 2 years

If you could go back to one grade, which one and why? Kindergarten for nap time.

Favorite St. John memory? Senior homecoming
Who is your favorite teacher/class and why? Teacher aiding for Mrs. Lausier.

What are your future plans or "next step"? Go to college and work with animals.

How has St. John prepared you for the "next step"? It gave me morals and prepared me mentally as well as physically for the next step.
Dream Occupation? Marine biologist
Embarrassing moment? Getting hit in the face during dodge ball last year at Olympiad.
Funny Fact? I hate chocolate and ice cream!

What is your favorite quote or memory verse? "Love the life you live, live the life you love."
Someone who inspires you? My mom and dad.
What are your favorite hobbies or sports? Volleyball and eating at Moe's Southwest Grill.

Congratulations to the 2012/13 Varsity Cheerleaders

Tryouts for the 2012/13 Varsity Cheerleaders were held today & we would like to congratulate the following:

Becca, Brittany, Caley, Holly, Kourtlynn, Lorena, Madison K, Madison W, 

Morgan, Sarah, Sophie, Tayler

We look forward to a great year full of school spirit & SAINTS pride!! 

Senior Moment: Lisette Grace Babalian



Lisette Grace Babalian - Born: July 15, 1994

How long have you attended St. John? Since 2nd grade.

If you could go back to one grade, which one and why? 7th grade because all my favorite memories are from that grade.

What is your favorite St. John memory? When I got in a pencil sword fight with Lauren and Mr. Erikson's basketball team.

Who is your favorite teacher or class and why? AP Biology with Mrs. Fontaine because it keeps me interested and I love our big class.

What are your future plans or "next step"? Going to college out-of-state.

How has St. John prepared you for the "next step"? Allowing me to dual-enroll and see what college is like.

What is your dream occupation? Forensic psychologist.
What is an embarrassing moment? The pretty committee.

Funny fact? I'm a really big nerd.

Who is someone that inspires you? Bob Dylan, Jesus, and Chris McCandless.

What are your favorite hobbies and/or sports? Tennis and cross-stitching.

Favorite Quote/Memory Verse? "Resist much, obey little."-Walt Whitman.

Camels and a Lot of Them!

Fourth grade finds fun in everything they do with Mrs. Knutson. Last Thursday, they traveled not too far to see the most unusual pet brought to school to share with the class - camels. Every week a student from the class gets to be the Student of the Week. Students bring in their favorite foods, books, movies, and animals. Last week, Matthew Mead was the famed fourth grader of the week. For his special something about him, he brought in camels. The fourth graders couldn't get enough of these creatures and they didn't have to go far to find them, only the in the back field of St. John.

For more pictures, click here: http://photobucket.com/sjcamels

2012 Pet Day

Elementary students enjoying annual Pet Day

Middle school students hanging out with their pets

Have you heard any barking or purrs? Pet Day, sponsored by Mr. John Westol's sixth and seventh graders, was held Monday, April 16th. Pets and students had fun with dog-calling, races, and much more. Younger elementary students came and visited the furry friends. In addition, the students paraded around the St. John campus and allowed others to enjoy the animals' company. Paw prints could be found everywhere.
For more pet pictures click here: www.photobucket.com/petday

Senior Moment: David Tyler Joranlien



David Tyler Joranlien - Born: January 12, 1994

How long you have attended St. John: 12 years

If you could go back to one grade, which one and why? 8th grade because some of the best friends I made were from that year.
Favorite St. John memory: 8th grade Keys trip

Favorite Teacher/Class: Why? Mrs. Janousky because I learned a lot and feel more prepared for college.

Future Plans/"Next Step": Get a good education at college.

How St. John has prepared you for the "next step?": St. John helped introduce the college environment and made me feel more confident in surviving college.

Dream occupation: Aeronautical technician

Embarrassing moment: Any of my random outbursts that have nothing to do with the previous conversation.

Funny Fact: Half of the comments I make are intended to make you laugh.

Favorite Quote/Memory Verse: "Deal with it!" -Jim Carrey

Someone who inspires you: The band members of "Confide"

Favorite hobbies/sports: Tennis, racing, and playing the bass guitar

Senior Moment: Joshua Daniel Layton

Joshua Daniel Layton - Born: June 24, 1994

How long have you attended St. John? 8 years

If you could go back to one grade, which one and why? 6th grade because I met most of my friends that year.

Who is your favorite teacher/class and why? Ms. Gieseke's Spanish class because it's always fun and she's a really great teacher.

What are your future plans or "next step"? College

How has St. John prepared you for the "next step"? Between Mr. Heath, Mrs. Janousky, and Mr. Liakos, I am prepared for any college.

What is your favorite quote or memory verse? "I'll grade your papers tomorrow and by tomorrow I mean you'll get them back in a month." - Paul Heath
What are your favorite hobbies or sports? Spelunking and doing the thriller dance

Senior Moment: Jonathan Perrin Alfred

Jonathan Perrin Alfred - Born: April 18, 1994

How long have you attended St. John? 13 years

If you could go back to one grade, which one and why? 8th grade because it was the best year ever. I had a lot of fun that year.

What is your favorite St. John memory? The Virginia Trip in 5th grade.

Who is your favorite teacher and/or class and why? AP Calculus with Mr. Kaley because math is my favorite subject.

What are your future plans or "next step"? Going to Mercer University to study Engineering.

How has St. John prepared you for the "next step"? Dual-enrollment has given me a look at college while AP classes has shown me how much work will be needed in college.

What is your dream occupation? Work with Lockheed Martin Advanced Technology Laboratories.

What is your favorite quote/memory verse? Jeremiah 29:11, "For I know the plans I have for you," declares the Lord, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future."

Who inspires you? Theodore Roosevelt

What are your favorite hobbies and/or sports? Swimming and soccer

Senior Moment: Spencer Steven Smith



Spencer Steven Smith - Born: March 18, 1993

How long have you attended St. John? 2 years

If you could go back to one grade, which one and why? Senior year because I am almost done with school!

Favorite St. John memory? Getting out at 12 everyday.

Favorite teacher/class? Coach Lausier - US History

Future plans/next step? Start my own business

How has St. John prepared you for the next step? St. John has prepared me in every aspect.

Dream Occupation? To have the biggest and best car audio shop known.

Favorite quote/memory verse? Philippians 4:13, "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me."

Someone who inspires you? My mom and Dad

Favorite hobbies/sports? Car audio

Senior Moment: John Joseph Klein

John Joseph Klein - Born: September 1, 1993

How long have you attended St. John? 2 years

If you could go back to one grade, which one and why? Junior year so that I could get better grades, have loads of fun, and beat St. Edwards in the football championship!

What is your favorite St. John memory? Spin hugs with Sudie.

Who is your favorite teacher or class and why? Physics with Coach Ward because it is fun and we solve real life problems.

What are your future plans or "next step"? NFL or Dr. Klein

How has St. John prepared you for the "next step"? St. John provided me with the best teachers in the world.

What is your dream occupation? Orthopedic Surgeon

What is an embarrassing moment? When Mr. Fisher wore my sunglasses with music and heard a bad song.

Who inspires you? My amazing mother.

What are your favorite hobbies or sports? Chilling with my friends, playing football, and frisbee.

Senior Moment: Jacob Mathew Hartman

Jacob Mathew Hartman - Born: March 3, 1994

 How long you have attended St. John: Since 10th grade (3 years)

If you could go back to one grade, which one and why: 10th grade because I slacked off and now I would try harder.

Favorite St. John memory: Senior Night for football

Favorite Teacher/Class and why: Mr. Heath, he is awesome.

Future plans/"Next Step": College somewhere.

How St. John has prepared you for the "Next Step": I learned a lot of great study tools.

Dream occupation: Owner of an auto recovers shop.

Embarrassing moment: Ripping my pants in math class.

Funny Fact: I rip my pants a lot.

Favorite Quote/Memory Verse: "Climbing is what I do."

Favorite Hobbies/Sports: Football

Senior Moment: Christopher Michael Frazier Jr.

Christopher Michael Frazier Jr. - Born: January 27, 1993

How long have you attended St. John? 2 Years
If you could go back to one grade, which one and why? 6th grade, it was the best year filled with fun!

Favorite St. John memory? Winning the 2011 Play Game with the Varsity Football Team.
Favorite teacher/class: why? Weight training because I love working out!
Future plans/next step? Going to college
How has St. John prepared you for the next step? Learning a lot.
Dream Occupation? Dental Hygienist
Embarrassing moment? Falling
Someone whom inspires you? God
Favorite hobbies/sports? Football and weight training

Senior Moment: Taylor Austin Hamilton

Taylor Austin Hamilton - Born: March 2, 1994

How long have you attended St. John? Since 6th grade.

If you could go back to one grade, which one and why? 9th grade, Mr. Dexhiemer's class.

What is your favorite St. John Memory? Corbin yelling, "Silly Boys", straight to Mr. Dexhiemer's face.

Who is your favorite teacher and/or class? Mr. Heath because he is simply awesome!

What are your future plans or "next step"? Get a career with teaching or attend an Officer Candidate School.

How has St. John prepared you for the "next step"? St. John has given me lots of work.

What is your dream occupation? 150th SOAR Aviation Officer

What is an embarrassing moment? Falling... everything.

What is a funny fact? I'm a movie fanatic and I listen to techno and dubstep frequently.

What is your favorite quote or memory verse? "Common sense is not so common" -Voltaire

Who is someone that inspires you? Marcus Luttrel

What are your favorite hobbies and/or sports? Soccer and airsoft

Senior Moment: Erin Lynn Smothers

Erin Lynn Smothers - Born: November 21, 1993

How long you have attended St. John: Since 5th grade

If you could go back to one grade, which one and why? I'd say middle school in general. I miss Values Camp.

Favorite St. John Memory: The trip to the Keys in 8th grade; bus rides included.

Favorite Teacher/Class: Why? Any classes with Coach Lausier or Mr. Heath. Their classes are always fun, partially because of the way they teach and partially because of the subject matter.

Future Plans/"Next step": Attend University of West Florida and major in Digital Arts.

How St. John has prepared you for the "next step": Tough classes prepare me for the work.

Dream occupation: Digital Artist

Embarrassing moment: The fundamental part of embarrassing moments is that we never speak of them again.

Funny fact: I'm pretty smart, but my attention span is severely lacking.

Favorite Quote/Memory Verse: "We are the music makers and we are the dreamers of dreams."

Someone who inspires you: Artists I look up to.

Favorite hobbies/sports: I've never been an athletic person, I'm more partial to drawing.

Senior Moment: Jacob Gant Smith

Jacob Gant Smith - Birthday: November 17, 1993

How long have you attended St. John? K4-12

If you could go back to one grade, which one and why? 12th grade because it flew by.

What is your favorite St.John memory? Senior year as a whole

Who is your favorite teach or favorite class and why? Teacher - Mrs. Gieseke; Class - AP Biology

What are your future plans or "next step"? University of Central Florida Honors

How has St. John prepared you for the "next step"? Challenging courses and great teachers.

What is your dream occupation? Pharmacist/researcher
What is a funny fact about yourself? I can make my tongue into a clover.

What is your favorite quote or memory verse? "The very basic core of a man's living spirit is his passion for adventure. The joy of life comes from our encounters with new experiences and hence there is no greater joy than to have an endlessly changing horizon, for each day to have a new and different sun." - Christopher McCandless
Who inspires you? Abraham Lincoln
What are your favorite hobbies or sports? Xbox and blogging

National Honor Society Inductions

The National Honor Society (NHS) is an amazing opportunity to be a part of making a difference. Its official name is the National Honor Society of Secondary Schools. The purpose of this organization is to create enthusiasm for scholarship, stimulate a desire to render service, promote leadership, and develop character in the students of secondary schools.

In the past, NHS has collected canned goods, tutored younger students, and taken part in Operation Christmas Child. This year NHS members are planning on playing a bigger role in their school and community. Faculty Adviser, Mr. Alan Reidel, states that, "I want the National Honor Society to make a difference in people's lives." Brainstorming has started and they are ready to take action in making this difference.

At the end of the year the members of NHS will be running for the offices of Vice President, Treasurer, Secretary, and Chaplain for the next school year. The Vice President, Jenny Koch, will automatically take over the position of President. She has many service opportunities up her sleeves and can't wait to share them.

This year's NHS members are so excited to have new members that share the same ideas about making a difference. Congratulations to all the new NHS members!

Faculty Adviser

Alan Reidel

Officers

President Skyler Doerflein

Vice President Jenny Koch

Secretary Madison Kirkland

Treasurer Kathy Hossler

Chaplain Josh Knutson

Class of 2012

Jonathan Alfred

Lisette Babalian

Nicole Gallinaro

Heather Lee

Danny Meredith

Sami Oliver

Victoria Rivera

Gant Smith

Class of 2013

Meghan Brady

Timmy Briggs

Caley Carbaugh

Annessa Comfort

Shelby Grosvenor

Jake Radford

Chrisitina Shepherd

Holly Tackett

Eric Williams

Inductees

Class of 2013

Josie Devine

Thomas Ergle

Kristy Gray

Ryan Oltz

Matthew Rivera

Morgan Zack

Class of 2014

Alexis Browning

Madison Fornof

Erik Higginbotham

Cameron Rivas

Elizabeth Rockey

Lorena Walker

Eric Whinnen

Check out more NHS pictures here:www.photobucket.com/SJNHS

Senior Moment: Jordin Scott Miracle

Jordin Scott Miracle - Born: December 29, 1993

How long have you attended St. John? 1 year
If you could go back to one grade, which one and why? Kindergarten because we got to color and sleep!
Favorite St. John Memory? Performing at the pep rally
Favorite teacher/class and why? I can't decide.
Future plans/ next step? I plan to attend college as a finance manager.
How has St. John prepared you for the next step? By helping me to incorporate Religion into my decisions.
Dream Occupation? CFO of a major incorporation.
Embarrassing moment? When Coach Meunier walked in on us singing "Bye, bye, bye."
Funny Fact? I wasn't always this handsome.
Favorite Quote/ memory verse? "Holding a grudge is like drinking poison and expecting the other person to die."
Someone who inspires you? Holly Tackett
Favorite sport(s) and hobbies? Football and pole vaulting

St. John quintet to play football at next level

Wed. April 11, 2012 at 2:53 p.m. | By Byron Saucer from the Ocala Star Banner

Head coach Dennis Meunier looked on with pride as five of his players signed college football deals Wednesday at St. John Lutheran School.

Among those was reigning Star-Banner Player of the Year Calib Alexander, who decided to attend Meunier's alma mater, Concordia-Chicago University, in hopes of also becoming a coach one day.

The explosive running back posted the best season in Marion County history as a senior, rushing for a record 2,537 yards and 41 touchdowns. He had opportunities to play in a larger division, but the level-headed back said he felt at home on the Chicago campus.

He'll also get a chance to play for St. John Lutheran alum Erich Janousky, who is the Cougars offensive coordinator.

"Concordia came into the picture (late), and there's a whole St. John family up there," explained Alexander, who was close to signing with I-AA Colgate earlier in the recruiting process. "Their offense is ranked (high) in D-III and they are always 9-3 or better every season.

"Plus, they're a church school with good academics. It's more like a family. And winning, of course, is always nice."

The trio of Stephen Bollinger, Jared Schappert and T.J. Mottl signed with I-AA start-up program Stetson, while Josh Knutson chose the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy in New York.

The three Stetson-bound players will have a full season to get ready for the rigors of college football before the Hatters begin their inaugural season in 2013.

Bollinger, a 6-foot-5 tight end, battled through injuries during his senior season, hauling in seven passes for 115 yards in limited action.

Schappert (6-2, 235) racked up 63 tackles and five sacks playing on the interior of the Saints defensive line, and Mottl, a 6-foot, 190-pound speed rusher, logged 73 tackles and 14 sacks coming off the edge.

Knutson, a 6-2, 205-pound two-way player for the Saints, posted 69 stops and tied Mottl for the team lead with 14 sacks. He'll take his talents to the Division III Liberty League.

"Here at St. John we may not always have the Division I superstar that's going to sign the first day, but the important thing in coaching kids is to try and find the fit for them where they can be successful," Meunier said. "I tell kids every year ‘if you want to play football past high school, there's a place for you.' It doesn't mean you'll get that Division I scholarship, but there's always a place you can play if you put in the work. These kids have obviously done that."

Alexander will join Lake Weir High graduate Jamal Thomas at Concordia. Thomas, another explosive open-field athlete, led the Cougars in receiving (41 catches for 752 yards), all-purpose yards (814) and scoring with 15 touchdowns as a junior in 2011.

Former St. John linebacker Chris Decker and Vanguard defensive back Malcolm Godwin completed their playing careers at Concordia, which competes in the Northern Athletics Conference, last season.

"We thought Calib was going to Colgate, then at the last minute some other guys were going to Concordia (on a visit)," Meunier explained. "When he went up there and met (Janousky) he decided he wanted to go into coaching... Certainly he's going to be a great addition to their program."

The Saints aren't done either, according to Meunier. The veteran coach says linebacker Danny Meredith and offensive lineman John Klein are likely headed to Stetson, and 6-foot-3 wide receiver Jordan James currently has an offer from Concordia on the table.

"We still have a few guys who are still trying to figure it out," Meunier said.

Senior Moment: Skyler Grey Doerflein



Skyler Grey Doerflein - Born: January 6, 1994

How long you have attended St. John: Since 2nd grade (10 years)

If you could go back to one grade, which one and why: 8th grade, I like that it was so easy back then.

Favorite St. John memory: Playing football at lunch during middle school.

Favorite Teacher/Class and why: Coach Lausier's Personal Fitness and Life Management because it was the most fun.

Future Plans/"Next Step": Go to Loyola University in Chicago

How St. John as prepared you for the "Next Step": Mrs. Janousky has me ready for anything college could throw at me.

Dream occupation: Anything where I can help other people.

Embarrassing Moment: When my pants ripped before the Lake Weir basketball game and I had to tie a sweater around my waist.

Favorite Quote/Memory Verse: "It's better to will the good than to know the truth."

Someone who inspires you: My mom

Favorite hobbies/sports: Basketball and ping pong