Everyday Epics – Lockard & Langs

Today is a sad day for the Journalism Class, as we lost “Everyday Epics” blogger Emmanuel Terrell due to a scheduling conflict. So the baton will be passed to me and Conor Langs, and we hope to not disappoint.

So, dear reader:  you may be asking:  what news today? Well, they opened up the third floor classrooms on Tuesday, and needless to say they will offer incredible new learning opportunities. And the 3rd floor water fountain has an automatic water bottle filter! I love the future.

Nov 18th

Today is the best day of the week for students. Football enjoyed a day off on Thursday and today we get to wear our Grammar School jerseys. Next week is a short week, only Monday and Tuesday, and then we go on break. I know how I will be spending my week off. Resting and eating? Nope! Unlike school, football practices starts again Monday and we will be going to Friday. Happy Turkey Week!

Nov 21st

Thanksgiving break is almost here and two days of school has the student body humming with excitement. Watching TV and football, eating a lot, sleeping a lot, and not doing homework for a couple days, what’s not to love?

Nov 22nd

Today studium 004 delivered over 3600 cans to Maple – Morgan Park Food Pantry. Mr. McGuire and his stadium donated the most cans and were allowed to leave during the school day to help with the delivery process. As today is the last day of school before break, the Caravan staff want to wish you a safe and Happy Thanksgiving!

Nov 28th

First day back. I hope everyone had a great Thanksgiving and got your shopping done. Today is Cyber Monday so make sure to get on Amazon or what ever websites off the best deals. MC

Nov 30th

As a senior I pride myself on driving to school and parking in a good spot. But all good things must come to a very sad, sad end as my car is in the shop because someone (cough, cough, my brother, cough) drives it carelessly.  So now I have to ride to school with a junior. The rides are cramped with freshmen who, in my opinion, could walk to school (haha – not really) or at least take the bus (this I think is reasonable). The lesson? Enjoy and be thankful for your car because you never now when you may have to go back to riding with underclassmen.

 

Dec 6

Winter is here and it came with a few thick inches of snow. Now, I understand that this a bold statement but I love winter and everything about. The snow, skiing, snowball fights,

Dec 12.

With Christmas break coming quickly that means finals are looming in the distance. We get out on the 22nd of December and come back on January 9th. I also spent last night looking in my emails for that “Snow Day” email but nothing came. Hopefully if the conditions are right, Mr. Stimler will do all of Mount Carmel a favor.

Dec 14

Word in halls is that the “snow day” may turn to a “freezing cold arctic cold day.” The students don’t care what it is called but as long as there is a possibility of sleeping in tomorrow, we are all for it. In other news, students have figured out that yes, it is cold outside, if you don’t wear a coat on the walk in from the parking lot. And no, two hoodies or one hoodie and pull over, are not proper coats, you South Siders.

Jan 9th

Welcome back everyone! Hopefully your break was very relaxing and you spent time with family and friends. All I know is that my sleep schedule has taken a hit and I am not liking waking up at 6:50 again. So when you see the students who yawn and look dazed in the hallways, remember they have to readjust again. Also with CRS on Thursday and MLK day on Monday (the 16th) our first week/weekend is a pretty easy one.

 

Jan 10th

The Admissions office this week is preparing for the Mount Carmel Placement Test for incoming freshman. On January 14th, this Saturday, eighth grade boys will take the placement test here at MC. It was an exciting time for me and it certainly will be for the boys taking the first step in becoming a man of Carmel.

Jan 17th

A little past midway this year and whoever said senior year wasn’t hard is a liar. It is hard and I am very tired and when is graduation? But I am enjoying my time as all seniors should. I am excited where I’ll turn up for college. Hey, Future Jack, when you read this in about about two months, you will know where your going to college. Sweet!

Jan 18th

Wednesdays late starts are a blessing for most students, not me however. I was here at 6:50 for our first lacrosse morning workout of the year. Who doesn’t enjoy sprints and weight lifting when the sun comes up over Mount Carmel?

Jan 19th

The makeup high school placement test is this Saturday at 8:00 a.m. at Mount Carmel. If you missed the test last Saturday or did not take it at a Catholic high school, please come to Mount Carmel if you are an eighth grade male student.

Jan 23rd

12 weeks to Spring Break. Four weeks to finals. This is good and bad for students, it is bad because 12 weeks is a long time. It’s very good because we have four full weeks to get our grades up or to finish strong. We only have one day off during this time and it is Presidents Day. Oh man…

Jan 24th

Sophomore Impact Week has started in this Tuesday and all MC sophomores will be working hard. Through many different communities, they will be focused on hunger and poverty. They will be going to food pantries, Feed My Starving Children, and multiple homeless shelters. Please keep the sophomores and everyone they are helping in your prayers this week.

 

Jan 27th

Sophomore Impact Week is coming to an end today. Sophomores will continue working and will come back to Mount Carmel to celebrate a mass. Also in the news swimming has won the last two meets against St. Rita and Norte Dame by a whopping total of 136 to 50. Make sure to come out and support all Caravan teams this winter!

 

Jan 30

The Mount Carmel Speech team had a good weekend with placing 9th out of 21 at an ISHA event. Justin Fekete ’17 took fifth place in Impromptu Speaking, Farouk Kudaisi ’17 came in second place in Poetry, and in first place for Prose Aiden Varela ’18. Also this week on Tuesday is the second and last Diversity Dinner. Make sure to talk to Mr. Perkins or Mrs. Wheelers to get yourself a seat.

 

Feb 1

The Diversity Dinner was very successful last night, as the ROOTS club and Multi Cultural Club had to go and find more tables and chairs to seat everyone. Foods ranged from jerk chicken to red rice to cabbage with potatoes. The focus of this trimesters dinner was about diversity in our school and communities. The panelists were Mr. Nunez, Emmanuel Terrell, Tiafa Mugadili, Officer Frangella an instructor for the Chicago Police Academy. They answered questions like what is diversity like in the classroom and in the Academy.

 

Feb 7

Dear readers,

Today I leave for Kairos, a three day religious retreat that many of you may know how about. So for the time being I will pass the Everyday Epics over to my friend and co-editor, Conor Langs. Please pray for me and my fellow classmates as we embark on this journey and I will see you all Monday!

Feb 8

Hey all!  Conor here!  I’ll be taking Jack’s spot as the epic writer for a couple days, so bear with me!

Today, the an important meeting took place between student council representatives and the disciplinary team regarding school policy.  It was a success, and both sides look to make more progress over the coming days.

Feb 9

Happy Thursday, Caravan Nation!

Jack is still away on retreat, so I’m back again with another epic for the day!

Good luck to chess legends Tom Dart, Taifa Mugadili, Chimezie Obah, Charlie Pasciak, Eric Ramirez, and Abdel Raoul in representing MC at the state tournament in Peoria tomorrow!  Make us all proud!

I was never very good at chess *sighs*.

Feb 10

Happy Friday, Men of Carmel!

What’s with all the hair-directed music in the hallways today?  Anyways, good luck to Caravan wrestlers Colton Drousias, Colby Lopez, Rehan Uribe, Kaleb Guzior, David Devine, Kendall Coleman, Yahya Thomas, Dillon Hoey, Jack Mulay, David Riojas, David Benoit, Emanuel Terrell, Danny Sanchez, and Jeremy Cooper in competing in state sectionals today.  Pin ’em to the mat (no pun intended)!

Have a good weekend, everyone!

Feb 13

Happy Monday, Caravan!

Several students made MC proud over the weekend.  Congrats to senior Justin Fekete, who made school history by placing second in state speech sectionals.  He will advance to the state finals for the second time in three years!  Way to lead the way!

Also, big ups to the wrestling team, who will be sending eight young men to the state finals and Charlie Pasciak and Noah Jepson, who took home medals for scoring six out of the possible seven points at the state tournament in Peoria.  Go Caravan!

Feb 15

We’re halfway through the week!  Hang in there, Men of Carmel!

Today, we welcome the AdvancED Accreditation Team as they begin their two day visit to Mount Carmel.  We hope you enjoy your time on campus, and please feel free to make yourselves at home!

FYI, Trimester II exams start one week from today.  Study up!

 

Feb 16

Hey readers, Jack here. I’m back I have news! Mr. Vrechek, our second moderator, is back from his annual trip to California. Also in the news 14 wrestlers are now going down to Individual State at University of Illinois to compete for their titles at their weight class. Good luck fellas!

Feb 21

It’s Tuesday and I have studied an unholy amount for my Pre – Calc class. Now today will be focused on the darn AP Spanish test. What is not to love about about basically answering an English exam in, wait for it, Spanish. Also in the distance on Friday is my AP English test so yeah. That will be fun. But enough about my finals, this is what the week will look like for all of us. Wednesday is period A, B, and C and no late start! Thursday is D and E and then on Friday we conclude with F and G. Make sure to turn in all of your work and keep studying!

Feb 28

It’s officially Trimester III!  We’re in the home stretch of the year, men!  Remember to follow your new schedule on a Tuesday rotation for classes today.  Also try to not lose focus as we near the end of the school year.  Keep working all the way until the end.  Don’t give up now!

Mar 1

Today marks the first day of Lent.  Around campus today, students’ foreheads are covered with an ash cross following the all-school Ash Wednesday Mass.  The cafeteria will also not be serving meat today.

Students, remember to pledge $5 for the Polar Plunge during lunch today, in honor of the event taking place this weekend.  Those who donate will get the incentive of wearing jeans to school tomorrow!

 

Mar 2

Students were “woken up” by the fire alarm going off early this morning on campus.  Thankfully, it was just an annual drill and the process was successful!

Also, good luck to Coach Tina Grunauer as she embarks on a new career opportunity.  We will miss you!

Mar 3

TGIF, Caravan Nation!

Today, we welcome back former staff writers Matthew McKay and Ryan Noonan!  While visiting campus today on spring break, we were fortunate enough to listen to their wisdom and advice.  Best of luck in the rest of your college experiences.

 

Mar 6

With Monday gearing up for Junior Impact Week, the rest of the students who will have teachers missing are ready for sub assignments and a lot of work. Believe it or not, but you do have to continue to work even if your teachers are out, students. Let us keep the juniors and many faculty members in our prayers as they spend the week working very hard for those who need.

 

Mar 8

Happy Wednesday everyone. Only two more days until Friday! The Junior Impact is going very well, check out the photos and videos on the Mount Carmel Twitter page for updates. Next week is Spirit Week so students make sure you take a look at the themes for the week.

Mar 9

With Spirit Week starting Monday, here is the themes and games for the days. Monday is your class color day with the handball tournament. Tuesday is Tropical day (break out the bad Hawaiian shirts) with a basketball tournament. Wednesday is Jersey day and the Taste of MC with a food eating competition, Thursday is Patriot day and floor hockey. Friday is St. Baldrick’s so wear green and we have our Spring Pep Rally. Let’s have a good week!

Mar 13

Despite the frigid temperatures and snow storm on this Monday morning, the school spirit hasn’t diminished one bit, as today marks the start of “Spirit Week.”

Monday’s afternoon activity features handball competition between the classes.  The winning class earns points that are tallied up until the end of the week.  Good luck to all classes, and let’s have a great week!

Mar 15

After surviving a blizzard yesterday, classes are back in session for Wednesday.  The “Taste of MC” will be held through all three lunches today.  Students have the opportunity to buy lunch and participate in games and activities hosted by various MC clubs and organizations.  Tickets are $1.00 each, so come with cash and enjoy!

Mar 16

After enjoying some tasty treats (chicken wings, sloppy joes, ice cream, etc.) at the “Taste of MC” yesterday, Spirit Week continues with floor hockey competition between all four classes at the end of the day.  The winning class will get to play against the faculty team at the conclusion of the assembly. Enjoy, and continue to rep your red, white, and blue colors today!

Mar 17

Happy Saint Patty’s Day!

As we wrap up Spirit Week, the Saint Baldrick’s assembly will take place at the end of the day today.  Thanks to all who stepped up to raise money!  Also, the winner of the Kevin Hansen Green Jacket Award will be given to a Mount Carmel Faculty member at the conclusion of the day.

Thanks to all who made these last few days possible.  I definitely enjoyed my last Spirit Week!

Mar 22

Apologies for the lack of posts over the last few days.  The Caravan staff was busy preparing for their visit to the South Shore YMCA, which took place yesterday.  A story regarding our visit will be published soon.

The cafeteria is now accepting credit or debit purchases through http://my mealtime.com.  Create a free account today to get started!  Students are required to use their school IDs to make these purchases through the site.

Mar 23

Congrats to the lacrosse team, who opened their season last Saturday with a 15-5 win over Huntley.  They battle again tonight against Carl Sandberg High School at Andrew High School in Tinley Park.  The baseball squad also squares off against Kenwood tonight at 4:15 at Carey Field.  Come out to support!

Mar 24

On this beautiful Friday, the freshmen class went to see the drama club’s Elijah, which has been showcased at school for the last several weeks.

I am also excited to be the first to announce that the Caravan will be starting a sports column!  This updater will include daily brief statements and scores from each spring sporting event.  You can find it in the sports section of our website.

Have a good weekend, Caravan!  Make sure to go outside and enjoy this weather!

 

Mar 27

Happy Monday men of 6410! This week is pretty normal. Late start on Wednesday, baseball and lacrosse games through the week and the Mothers Club Fashion Show took place yesterday at Georgios Banquet in Orland Park. Along over 400 guests, faculty members and teachers Mr. Antonietti, Mr. Eisenbraun, Mr. Enright, Mr. Hurry, Mr. Dave Lenti, Mr. McGarry and Ft. Peter McGarry participated.

 

Mar 28

Today starts the Walkathon fundraising with an assembly during studium. Students have individual pages set up for donations that will go to the 72,000 dollar goal. If we reach this goal, we will get a full day of in May. If we reach 90% of this, then say hello to half day Fridays! Students make sure to share your link with family and friends.

 

Mar 29

If you have not seen it check out the article about Rudy Melchiorre and his story about St. Baldricks fundraising, in the New World. Also today at MC students are adapting to the new lunch system which is running with problem.

 

Mar 30

Just a normal Thursday here at MC. There is a Black Heritage forum today and studiums 104 and 109 will be in attendance. In Chicago, the weather for the next week or so is looking like non stop rain. So to the spring sports athletes, don’t worry you get all those games rescheduled. Hopefully…

 

Mar 31

Happy last of March! Today I want to give a shout out to the Mock Trial students who are at the Howlett Cup, an invitation only, mock trial that takes place today and tomorrow. Good luck guys! Also on Saturday is the Special Olympics Volleyball which will be played in the Cacciatore Athletic Center all day. Come by to watch these athletes play for their chance at metals!

Apr 3

Happy Monday!

Tomorrow will be a half day at school, with College Readiness Standards testing (CRS) taking place for the freshmen, sophomores, and juniors.  The test is a practice ACT exam, and is designated to be a great opportunity for students to prepare for the actual ACT during junior/senior year.  The senior class will be partaking in “Career Day”, allowing various alumni to discuss with the near-college students about different career paths.

The Carmelite Board will also be on campus today through tomorrow, interviewing faculty and students about our school’s mission.  Please give them your best welcome!

Apr 5

Tomorrow, the Caravan journalists will embark on their annual field trip to Tribune Tower to get a glimpse of the life of a reporter.  In addition to visiting the Tribune, the class will cab over to the Chicago Sun-Times to receive a tour.  The day will conclude with a bite to eat at The Billy Goat Tavern on Michigan Avenue.

Because of the special day tomorrow, the news staff will be out of the office.  We’ll be back on Friday!  Dueces!
April 24

Welcome back from Spring Break students! Keep up the hard work for the last couple weeks and finish strong. Congratulations to the lacrosse team who the won the Sticks and Stones tournament over break. Also it’s a busy week with the last Walkathon assembly on Tuesday, then Walkathon on Friday and Fight Night on Saturday.

April 25

Today is the last Walkathon assembly so be ready to win some awesome prizes for the students that have met their donation goals. Remember students that we have to make a goals to get warm weather dress code, half days Fridays and Free Day, which means no school. Keep on donating!

April 27

With the Walkathon tomorrow President Ned Hughes made an announcement via Mr. McGarry. Any and all senior donations made today only, he himself will match our donations. So seniors and everyone, make sure to get your money in for the future of Mount Carmel!

May 1

As we rapidly approach the end of the year, the school community will celebrate reaching the Walkathon goal of $72,000!  Thanks to all the contributions, warm-weather dress code, half-day Fridays, and the free day on May 12 are all in effect.  Thank you to all who continue to support Mount Carmel!

May 2

AP testing continues today, with the computer science and physics exams being held in the student center.  The Kevin Kennelly Scholar breakfast also took place this morning.

School lets out for the summer exactly one month from today!  Finish the year strong, Caravan!

May 3

Halfway to Friday!

The entire junior class is taking the ACT on campus today, along with AP exams continuing in the student center.  The AP literature test is the single exam being held today.  Mr. Hawk’s english I class traveled to the opera for his annual field trip.

May 4

Good luck to the Caravan’s own Zachary Pasciak, as he will be heading down to Springfield to compete in the Illinois State History Fair exposition.  Also best of luck to Ryan Foley, Jordan Patterson, Zachary Pasciak, Zac Styka, and Anthony Morales as they head downstate as well!

May 5

Due to the full participation in the Walkathon fundraiser, the first half-day Friday in May begins today!  Classes will conclude at 12:15, and the Caravan will get an early start to the weekend.

For seniors, prom is tomorrow!  Make sure to be at Navy Pier by 7:30, and have your school ID present with you for admission.  Let’s dance the night away!

May 8

More AP test are being taken today so keep those students in you mind. Seniors make sure to keep up with all of your work and finish strong! Only a couple more days of your high school career left! We have no school on Friday because of our Walkathon goals.

May 9

Seniors have just a few more chances to enjoy the tasty treats of the school cafeteria.  What’ll it be today, boys?  This writer is a big fan of the pasta with alfredo and chicken tenders; the cookies are pretty good (especially paired with chocolate milk); and you can’t beat the fries (a different version every day)!  Get ’em while you can.

May 11

The second annual senior barbecue in the parking lot this morning was a very big success! Shout out Jake William and David Rosario for cooking the burgers, hotdogs, and the occasional pork chop. Along with beanbags (or corn hole if your from any other state), tons of food, and music.

 

May 16

Well dear readers, today is the last day of my high school classes. I never thought that it would go by this fast and how much I have changed since freshman year. I want to say thank you for reading our stories and works over the last two years. – J.L.

So long, readers!  Today is my last day of high school!  Thank you to all who supported me throughout my four years here, and I look forward to visiting again in the future.  – C.L.

 

May 17

Last night, Mount Carmel’s newest NHS members were inducted. Thirty-five juniors and four seniors were recognized last night at the ceremony. Vince Morgan ’11 spoke with the inductees about their high school life and what comes after they graduate. Light refreshments were served after the ceremony. Congrats to all the newly inducted!

May 18

Good luck to the junior class as it embarks on the annual “Caravan Day” scavenger hunt through downtown Chicago.  They’ll be looking for Carmel alums with whom to take selfies for extra points in the competition.  Meanwhile, on campus, seniors are wrapping up their third and final day of exams. Best of luck to the Class of 2017!

May 24

Today, all of the seniors had to come in one final time for graduation practice at Rockefeller Chapel, in preparation for Sunday’s ceremony. Afterward, they all came back to Carmel for the senior barbecue.