Merrillville High School - Merrillvue Yearbook (Merrillville, IN)

Text from Pages 1 - 90 of the 1947 volume:

FOREWARD The Merrillvues of the past have in a strik- ing way reflected the growth and development of our high school. If the nineteen forty-seven Merrillvue adequately represents the Merrillville High School of today, both in spirit and in fact, and if in addition it is able, rather by its attempt than by its success, to serve as some inspiration to succeeding staffs, it will quite fully have ful- filled its purpose. d ' ciSMoarf’ ' fas M7?y Afafajafa. 7 lafflffU fajjfa fafa faotfa? r-i i .. m ( Y. ? ' . jl. .Jy J m J U7. l J. ! )■ ■ ' ■ V ?V- ► i .Y z- fa s a JL ja a yjs, A. y . j_ %• dfcA J(jfa ilsodh fa ✓ U , A? «. v fa 7% A ’ r, MESSAGE FROM THE PRINCIPAL We are living in an age in which Democracy vs. Communism is the discussion of the day. The quality of democracy in any community is measured by the total contributions made by individuals in their cooperative eiforts to attain accepted democratic goals. The individual contribution is the result of the degree of feeling he has for community welfare, and the satisfaction he has in his participa- tion in creating the community. If Democracy, with its emphasis upon the dignity of the individual, is to grow and endure, it is up to each high school graduate to do his part in making democracy work more effectively. With this conflict facing every boy and girl who graduates from our high school this year, I hope to see each one of you prove that you have a wide base of participation and influence and will prove you are a worthy citizen of so great a democratic country. This will remove the eye of suspicion from each one of you, and our country can hold its place of dignity throughout the world. A MESSAGE FROM THE STAFF During the past four years, we have am- massed various ideals and experiences that we feel will be the embers of a lasting remembrance. We will proudly look back to the days when we carried our books through the halls of M. H. S., and, no doubt, we will smile. We have tried, and we hope with some suc- cess, to transfer a few of those lasting moments into this annual. We can never relive that which is past, but we can recall it as often as we like. It is our hope that you will treasure this book as a sanctuary of that which has been so near to you during this past year. In future years, we ask only that you turn these pages of photo- graphs once in a while and let them revert to you those glorious days of 1947. As for us, we have only to say that we will never forget Merrillville, and you, we hope, will always remember us. MESSAGE FROM THE FACULTY Books — can we underestimate their value? In them we find the record of human growth and achievement from the dawn of history to the present. Through them we can spread valuable scientific knowledge which would otherwise be withheld from the masses of people. Through the door opened by them we may enter the im- aginary world of fiction, and experience vicari- ously deep emotion and the thrill of adventure. And, most important of all, from them we glean the thoughts of man, his philosophy, his spiritual longings and religious beliefs. This whole world of ideas is ours for the seeking. No other animal has ever written a book — not even the most intelligent of them. Books are a living testimony to the immortality of man’s soul. This little year-book — will it not serve to recall many happy days otherwise forgotten? FACULTY MR. CLAUDE V. YORK Central Normal College, Columbia University, Indiana University, DePauw University, Purdue University, History. MRS. ELLEN FRAZURE Secretary MISS RUTH INBODY Goshen College, Ball State Teachers College, Commerce. MR. PHILIP NEEDHAM B. S. and M. S. Indiana State Teach- ers College, Ball State Teachers College, Special Major Industrial Arts. MRS. MARJORIE BOOMERSHINE B. S. Indiana State Teachers College, Purdue University, Home Economics. MR. LOREN CARRIER University of Illinois, College of Agriculture, Agriculture. MRS. DOROTHY CARLTON Greenville College, Manchester Col- lege, Indiana University, World History, Government, History. MRS. IRENE COLLINS Valparaiso University, Wisconsin Uni- versity, Latin, Mathematics. MISS OLIVE WOOD Indiana State Teachers College, School Treasurer, English. MISS JOAN MacDONALD Registered Nurse MR. EDWARD ENGELHART Central Normal College, Physical Ed- ucation, Typing. MR. CLARENCE HANSEL Indiana State Teachers College, Pur- due University, Shop. MR. RICHARD DEMAREE Northwestern University, B. S. in Physical Education. MR. FLOYD McCUTCHAN Indiana State Teachers College, Mathematics, Science, Health. MISS MIRIAM COX Valparaiso University, Wheaton Col- lege, Biology, Library. MISS JEAN KETTRING Manchester College, Purdue Univer- sity, B. S. in Home Economics. NOT PICTURED MR. FRANK PRUITT University of Louisville, University of Missouri, University of Illinois, Indi- ana University, Butler University Mathematics, Science. MRS. LEAH LESTER University of West Virginia, Univer- sity of Illinois, Physical Education, Health. MR. HILMER JACOBSON University of Tennessee, Northwes- tern University, Music. DEDICATION We, the Senior Class of 1947, dedicate this fual to our sponsors, Mr. Loren R. Carrier and Floyd K. McCutchan. We hope this book -serve as a simple reminder to them of the £ appreciation and thanks for the many things ■; If they have done for us during our Junior and f % V nor years. f It is with sincere ' feeling that we say, y ‘Thanks, Mr. Carrier and -Mr.- McCiif chan.”. if t SENIORS FRED TITLEY Track 1, 2, 3, ,4; Chorus 3; Student Council 1, 3, 4 (Pres. 4) ; Hi-Y 4; Base- ball 2, 3, 4; Football 4 (Co-Captain); Basketball 1; Band 1, 2, 3, 4; Sr. Play 4. EDWARD YERGA Jr. Red Cross 1, 2, 3 (Treas. 3) ; Basket- ball 2, 3; Baseball 2; Football 4 (Capt. 4); Jr. Play 3; Hi-Y 3, 4 (Sec. 4); Class Vice-Pres. 4; Vice-Pres. Student Council 4; Annual Staff 4. WAYNE JOHNSON Jr. Red Cross 3; Hi-Y 3, 4 (Sgt.-at- Arms 4); Baseball 3; Track 1, 2; Basketball 1, 2, 3, 4; Band 1, 2, 3, 4; Football 4; Chorus 3, 4; Sr. Play 4. RAYMOND FRANZ Hi-Y 4 (Class Treas. 3, 4); Annual Staff 4; Mirror Staff 4 (Editor 4). JOHN B. RICE Basketball 1, 2, 3, 4 (Capt. 3,4); Base- ball 2, 3, 4; Track 1; Pres, of Class 4; Hi-Y 3, 4; Jr. Play 3; Sr. Play 4; Stu- dent Council 4. ESTHER DAVIS Student Council 4; Tri-Ep 3, 4 (Pres. 4); G. A. A. 1, 2, 3, 4; Jr. Play 3; Sr. Play 4. MARJORIE STOCKWELL G. A. A. 1, 2, 3, 4 (Pres. 4); Jr. Red Cross 1, 2; Tri-Ep 3, 4; Jr. Play 3; Sr. Play 4; Cheerleader 4; Chorus 1, 3; Student Council 4. “GLASS OF 1947 HISTORY” It all started with a group of innocent young children in a brave battle against the Essentials of Algebra. The leader of the battle was Fred Titley; Sergeant, Arthur Hollingshead ; General’s Aide, Patricia Foust; Finance Officer, Patty Yager; since Patty Yager was transferred to a different regiment, Sonia NcNair took over as Finance Officer; Mes- senger, Jack Frazure. Under the competent guidance of the General’s Counselors, Miss Charlotte McClure and Mrs. Gladys Miller, they put over a successful bond drive. As the battle continued with the motto, “We have not yet begun to fight,” (this time against English) reinforcements were sent in. The new leader of the battle was Dale Crouch ; Sergeant, Karl Steinhaus ; General’s Aide, Delores Chiado ; Finance Officer, Jack Frazure, who was relieved by Leslie Bargfeldt; Messenger, Mary Slingsby. We held our ground under the leadership of Mrs. Gladys Miller and Mr. Leo Luebbehusen. A year later, signs of victory were beginning to appear. Once more, under the leadership of Fred Titley, the forces were reorganized. Eddie Benoit was that man with three stripes on his sleeve ; Anna Marie Sitrusa, the General’s Aide; Sonia McNair, the Finance Officer; Jack Woodland, the Messenger. As the battle against U. S. History raged on, Ed Benoit took over as leader and Ray Franz as Finance Officer. The important victories won were “Cash and Carrie”, the Junior Play, “Tropical Cruise,” the Junior Dance, and last but not least, the Junior-Senior Prom. This was accomplished through the moral support of Mr. Loren Carrier and Mr. Floyd McCutchan. We chose J. B. Rice to lead us in our final campaign. His co-officers were Ed Yerga, Sergeant; Esther Davis, General’s Aide; and Ray Franz, Finance Officer. An early victory was the Senior Dance, Nov. 1 ; the final victory, the Senior Play, “The Campbells Are Coming.” After a successful campaign, all good soldiers were awarded the H. S. D. (High School Diploma). Mr. Carrier and Mr. McCutchan were again loyal to us throughout this, our final year. SENIORS JAYNE SMITH Chorus 3, 4; G. A. A. 1, 2; Jr. Red Cross 1; Camera Club 4; Sr. Play 4. RICHARD ADLER Hi-Y 3, 4; Jr. Red Cross 1; Track 1, 2, 3, 4; Baseball 1, 2, 3, 4; Basketball 1. ARTHUR HOLLINGSHEAD Band 1, 2, 3, 4; Track 1; Baseball 1, 2, 3, 4; Basketball 1, 2; Hi-Y 4 (Vice- Pres., Class 1); Football 4; Jr. Red Cross 3; Jr. Play 3. PEGGY JENKINS G. A. A. 1, 4; Tri-Ep 4; Camera Club 4; Carnival Queen 4. EDWARD BENOIT Hi-Y 3, 4 (Reporter 4); Track 1, 2„ 3, 4; Football 4 (Captain); Class Pres. 3; Jr. Play 3; Cheerleader 3, 4; Student Council 3; Sr. Play 4. LOUISE ALEXANDER Tri-Ep 3, 4 (Treas. 4); Mirror Staff 4. ALFRED GERNENZ F. F. A. 2, 3, 4; Hi-Y 3. JACK WOODLAND Track 1, 2, 3, 4; Baseball 2, 3, 4; Mir- ror Staff 1, 2, 4; Annual Staff 4 (Editor 4); Hi-Y 3, 4 (Chaplin 4); Student Council 4; Chorus 3, 4; Class Reporter 3. RONALD HAYES Hi-Y 3, 4; Basketball 3, 4; Football 4; Track 4. KENNETH GREIMANN Hi-Y 3, 4 (Vice-Pres. 4); Basketball 1, 2, 3, 4; Track 1, 2, 3, 4; Class Reporter 4; Jr. Play 3. MARGARET SMITH G. A. A. 1, 3; S. S. S. 2; Latin Club 2; Camera Club 4; Chorus 3, 4; Sr. Play 4. PATRICIA FOUST G. A. A. 1, 2, 3 (Vice-Pres. 3); S. S. S. 2, 3, 4 (Pres. 4); Red Cross 1, 2, 3 (Vice-Pres. 3); Sec. of Class 1; Mirror Staff 4; Annual Staff 4; Student Council 4 (Reporter 4); Jr. Play 3; Chorus 3, 4; Football Cheerleader 4; Office Girl 3, 4; Sr. Play 4. KENNETH BURKHART Hi-Y 3, 4 (Pres. 4; Track 1, 2; Bas- ketball 2, 3, 4; Jr. Play 3; Vice-Pres. of Class 3 ; Prom King 3 ; Student Coun- cil 4; Band 1, 2, 3; Chorus 2, 3; Base- ball 3; Carnival King 4; Mirror Staff 4. MARTHA JO LESTER S. S. S. 1, 2; G. A. A. 1, 2; Jr. Red Cross 1, 2 ( Preas. 2) ; Jr.-Sr. Play; Annual Staff 4; Mirror Staff 4; Office Girl 3, 4; Cheerleader 4; Chorus 3. ROLANDA BERGER G. A. A. 1; Latin Club 2; S. S. S. 2; Mirror Staff 4; Annual Staff 4; Chorus 3, 4; Sr. Play 4. THELMA DOWNS G. A. A. 1, 2, 3; Jr. Red Cross 1; Jr. Play 3; Camera Club 4; Mirror Staff 4; Annual Staff 4; Chorus 2, 3, 4; Sr. Play 4. T jjj AMBITIONS Ray Franz A1 Gernenz Reed Jacobus Robin Belcher Eddy Benoit Fred Titley Norbert Saager Charlotte Gernenz . Lois Mitchell Bud Bullock Virgil Kaiser Robert Harrigan Harold Hazelett Ronald Hayes Jack Dick Jayne Smith Lorraine Schiesser .. Bill Cummings Nick Cochran Ed Yerga LaVern Burkhart .... Priscilla Newcomb .. Esther Davis Kenneth Greimann Bill Nolan Noreen Ready Antoinette Klassen . Evelyn Herr Shirley Smith Esther Klassen Londie Berger Georgianna Covaciu Dorothy Chentnik .. Peggy Jenkins Dorothy Douthett .... Jack Woodland Martha Jo Lester ... John Rice Eleanor Tiemann .... Margaret Smith Wayne Johnson Art Hollingshead Pat Sager Marjorie Stockwell . Louise Alexander .... Adele Homeier Rose Marie Coffman Patricia Foust Thelma Downs Charlotte Petersen .. Be a mechanical engineer - Be a rancher Be a mechanical engineer Be a mechanic Be a successful engineer — Lead a long and happy life — Be a farmer To travel Be an ideal housewife Get my car fixed - ... Be a farmer Sing like John Charles Thomas Become a chief cook in the Navy Become a pro-football player Become a farmer .... Live on a desert isle with Clarence Contine to be a waitress Be an aviation mechanic Become famous — Go to college Get married and go to California Be a nurse Become a nurse and take care of Bob Pilot an airplane Become a man Be a Greyhound bus driver Do secretarial work Become a beautician Work in a restaurant Become an efficient secretary .. Someday be a successful housewife Not to get married Be an airline stewardess Be a good housewife someday Be a bookkeeper Be a success, I think Be a dramatics director , Go to college Go to Gary Business College Raise a basketball team Learn how to play basketball Play with Tommy Dorsey Be a good housewife Be a beautician Be an accountant Become a surgeon Become a good career girl Be successful To become a successful beautician To become an interior decorator SENIORS ROBERT HARRIGAN Band 1, 2, 3, 4; Chorus 2, 3, 4; Camera Club 4 (Vice-Pres. 4); Annual Staff 4; Jr. Play 3. LOIS MITCHELL S. S. S. 1, 2, 3, 4; Chorus 1, 2-; Band 2, 3. GEORGIANNA COVACIU G. A. A. 1, 2, 3; S. S. S. 1, 2, 3; Tri- Ep 4; Mirror Staff 4. JACK DICK F. F. A. 2, 3, 4. ROBIN BELCHER Hi-Y 4. ESTHER KLASSEN S. S. S. 1, 2, 3, 4. ELEANOR TIEMANN S. S. S. 1; Mirror Staff 4; Annual Staff 4. ALFRED SMITH F. F. A. 2, 3, 4. NOREEN READY G. A. A. 1, 2; S. S. S. 2, 3, 4; Mirror Staff 4; Chorus 2, 3. CHARLOTTE GERNENZ S. S. S. 1, 2, 3, 4; Chorus 1, 2, 3. CLARENCE BULLOCK Basketball 1, 2 ; Track 2; Baseball 2; Jr. Play 3; Footbal l 4; Hi-Y 4; Band 1. WILLIAM CUMMINGS F. F. A. 2, 3, 4; Hi-Y 4. PATRICIA SAGER G. A. A. 1; S. S. S. 1; Tri-Ep 3, 4. ANTOINETTE KLASSEN S. S. S. 1, 2 , 3, 4; Mirror Staff 4; Annual Staff 4. EDWIN CHRISTIE Basketball 1 , 2; Chorus 4; Track 2; Camera Club 4. NORBERT SAAGER Hi-Y 3; F. F. A. 2 , 3 , 4; Student Coun- cil 3. SENIORS HAROLD, HAZELETT Hi-Y 4; Football 4. PRISCILLA NEWCOMB Jr. Play 3; G. A. A. 1, 2, 3, 4; Jr. Red Cross 1; Camera Club 4; Annual Staff 4; Mirror Staff 4; Tri-Ep 4. ADELE HOMEIER S. S. S. 1, 2, 3, 4; Jr. Red Cross 3. VIRGIL KAISER F. F. A. 2, 3, 4. REED JACOBUS Hi-Y 4; Band 1, 2. DOROTHY DOUTHETT Tri-Ep 4. PHYLLIS ACHOR Mirror Staff 4; Tri-Ep 4; G. A. A. 1; Spanish Club 2; Dramatic Club 3. DOROTHY CHENTNIK G. A. A. 1, 2, 3, 4; Camera Club 4; Chorus 1, 2, 3, 4; Jr. Red Cross 1; Mirror Staff 4. EVELYN HERR G. A. A. 1, 2, 3, 4; Chorus 3, 4; Jr. Red Cross 1; Camera Club 4. NICK COCHRAN Track 1, 2, 3, 4; Hi-Y 3, 4; Mirror Staff 4. JAMES NOLAN Camera Club 4; Track 3; Band 1; Foot- ball 4. CHARLOTTE PETERSEN G. A. A. 1, 2, 3, 4; Camera Club 4; Chorus 4; Jr. Play 3; Red Cross 1. SHIRLEY SMITH Tri-Ep 3, -4 (Sec. 4); S. S. S. 1. ROSE MARIE COFFMAN S. S. S. 1, 2, 3, 4; Tri-Ep 3; Mirror Staff 4; Annual Staff 4. LORRAINE SCHIESSER G. A. A. 1, 2, 3, 4; Jr. Play 3. ALICE WILLY PERSONALITIES OF 1947 Bud Bullock Eyes Priscilla Newcomb Eyes Edward Yerga Robert Harrigan ... — - Life of the party Man about town Fred Titley — Most likely to be a bachelor Dorothy Chentnik ... — Most likely to be an old maid Edward Benoit Hair Martha Jo Lester . - - Hair Patsy Foust Best dressed girl Jack Woodland Best dressed boy Charlotte Gernenz .. — - Most bashful girl Norbert Saager Most bashful boy Peggy Jenkins Prettiest girl Art Hollingshead _ Most handsome boy J. B. Rice Most polite boy Esther Davis — . Smile Kenny Greimann „ Smile PROPHECY Scene : A cozy little cottage in California owned by Mr. and Mrs. % La Vern (Peggy Jenkins) Burkhart. In front of the house is parked a trailer owned by Mr. and Mrs. Jack (Londie Berger) Woodland, who have just completed a sight- seeing tour across the United States, in their family-sized trailer. Topic of Discussion: What our old classmates are doing now, as told by Jack and Londie. Time: 1955. Jack and I ' are living in New York as he has a splendid position illustrating books for Scott, Foresman and Co., publishers. Just before we left on our trip we saw Adele Homeier; she is the head surgeon at the Lying-In Hospital. While passing through Pittsburgh, we ran across Arthur Hollingshead and his symphonic orchestra. His talented pianist and wife is none other than Pat Foust. During a short stop in Washington, D. C., we went to visit Nick Cochran, Secre- tary of State. Deciding to take a dip in the Gulf of Mexico, We hopped down to Florida and there, lounging on the sand, we saw Fred Titley, vacationing from his job of Sports columnist for the Boston Herald. Cutting back up through Kentucky, we passed the farm of Mr. and Mrs. Bob (Esther Davis) Wilkins. Esther is a nurse for their small farm community. Of course, we couldn’t have gone across the country without stopping off at our old Alma Mater, Merrillville High School. Alice Willy has replaced Mrs. Carlton as English teacher. J. B. Rice, after having graduated from West Virginia University, is trying to rival Coach Englehart’s record of wins at Merrillville. Charlotte Gemenz has opened a large, modern book store adjoining the school. We ran across Robin Belcher beating it to the cafeteria at noon hour. You see, aside from operating a mechanic shop, he is still trying to obtain a diploma. It seems as though he slept through a couple of years of Economics. Merrillville is now the proud possessor of a public library which is supervised by Eleanor Tiemann. Oh yes, before we forget it, Wayne Johnson is playing first trumpet in Art’s orchestra. We bought some eggs along the way at Louise Alexander’s chicken farm which she calls ‘Clara’s Cacklers.” They are wrapped in an issue of the Lake County Gazette. Look who’s society editor — Antoinette Klassen. Esther Klassen is secretary to the famed lawyer of Crown Point, Kenneth Greimann, who runs a motor scooter repair shop on the side. Jayne and Clarence Smith and Marg (Smith) and Nick Krisko are joint owners of a darling duplex in Gary. Charlotte Petersen is private secretary to the famed psychoanalyst, Priscilla Newcomb. Upon leaving the school we dropped into the soda fountain which is located across the street. The hangout for the crowd of happy students every evening is operated by Noreen Ready. Noreen informed us that Ray Franz has just delivered plans for a new type of airplane to the patent office; and that Mrs. (Lois Mitchell) Harris operates a small watch repair shop in Hobart. By the way, Jack received a letter from Bob Harrigan just before we left New York, postmarked Paris. Bob is touring Europe givin g operatic concerts. PROPHECY Ed Yerga has taken over Kitchell’s Corner and his attendants are known as Yerga’s Yeggs. His assistant in his thriving business is Bud Bullock, who is con- tinually tinkering with a rather old model of a car. It seems to be the same type he was driving when we were Seniors. While passing Yerga’s Gasoline Station, we saw Harold Hazelett and Professor of Mathematics, Reed Jacobus, refueling for the last lap of their hunting expedition. Harold just recently returned from Africa where he experimented in teaching simple arithmetic to the natives. Upon inquir- ing about the present drivers of the school buses we were surprised to hear that Virgil Kaiser has coincidentally taken over our old friend Rudy Kaiser’s route. Continuing on to Gary we found Phyllis Achor manager of Goldblatt’s Bros. Store. Phil told us that Rich Adler is head bookkeeper at the Gary National Bank. Driving down Broadway we saw a sign saying, “Cummings’ Austin Agency.” Upon further inquiry we discovered that Bill is selling Austins to the public. It seems that it took him so long to get rid of his little green Austin that he became very fond of this type of car and decided to go into the business. Gecrgianna Covaciu is assisting a lawyer. The lawyer she is private secretary to now is Edwin Christie. Walking along Broadway window shopping, we spied Rose Marie Coffman all dressed in white. She is a nurse at Mercy Hospital. Having lost a great deal of time in and about Gary, we hurried toward Chicago. As we passed the Chicago Stadium we saw a sign advertising a roller skating extra- vaganza. The star was none other than Thelma Downs, the Queen cf the Roller Skaters. Her manager, who schedules her appearances, regulates her extra activities, and handles the money is Evelyn Herr. Marjorie Stockwell designs all cf her costumes for the various shows. We drove past the stockyards, and there we stopped to talk to Jack Dick, Alfred Gemenz, and Norbert Saager, who were looking over the various types of stock just shipped in. On the outskirts of Chicago we stopped at a tiny tearoom managed by Shirley Smith and Dorothy Douthett. Having quenched our thirst, we. hurried on our way. We hopped up to Wisconsin, planning to spend a few days at a resort of some kind. Lo and behold the first onq we came upon is owned by Mr. and Mrs. Eddy (Martha Jo Lester) Benoit. They have a lovely place — a beautiful lake, trees, and cozy cabins. While passing through Kansas City, we stopped for a coke and the shop we stepped in had a radio turned on. The police were asking that anyone knowing the whereabouts of a certain Alfred (Baldy) Smith, the big-time gambler, were to get in touch with them immediately. While passing through Cheyenne, Wyoming, we stopped off to see the famed Wild West Show, “Frontier Days.” Bill Nolan is showing his prize horses in the shqlw and is the featured bareback brone rider. We stopped in the middle of a wide desert for a drink of water. There stand- ing all by itself was “Schiessers’ Snack Shack” operated by Lorraine, herself. We saw Dorothy Chentnik at a hotel we stopped at in Reno. She was awaiting the decree for her fourth divorce. We didn’t see anyone else until we turned down your street. Wasn’t that Pat Sager we saw shaking her mop out the front door of that house on the comer? She’s Mrs. Clarence Wood now, isn’t she? Gosh, our old classmates sure are scattered far and wide aren’t they? LAST WILL AND TESTAMENT I, Thelma Downs, do hereby bequeath my many demerits to Yvonne Davis. I, Patricia Foust, do hereby bequeath my versatility to Judy Greek. I, Rose Marie Coffman, do hereby bequeath my alarm clock that never rings on school days to Dorothea Rendo. I, Antoinette Klassen, do hereby bequeath my chubbyness to Marguerite Burris. I, Noreen Ready, d(f hereby bequeath my blue eyes to Eileen Stofa. I, Kenneth Greimann, do hereby bequeath my slimness to Cannon-Ball. I, Bill Nolan, do, hereby bequeath my build to Chester Maibofer. I, Lorraine Schiesser, do hereby bequeath my red hair to Don Carpenter. I, Bill Cummings, do hereby bequeath my driving ability to Carole Gernenz. I, Priscilla Newcomb, do hereby bequeath my brown eyes to Mrs. D. Carlton. I, Ed Yerga, do hereby bequeath my ability to get demerits from Miss Kettring to Diego Perez. I, LaVern Burkhart, do hereby bequeath my romantic technique to Bob Reichanadter. I, Nick Cochran, do hereby bequeath my athletic ability and quietness to Richard Spiroff and Ed Vereb. I, Esther Davis, do hereby bequeath my quietness to Norma Jean, my sister. I, Adele Homeier, do hereby bequeath my typing ability to my brother, Burdette. I, Louise Alexander, do hereby bequeath my height to Dean Leake. I, Marjorie Stockwell, do hereby bequeath my cheerleading ability to Lillian Burris. I, Pat Sager, do hereby bequeath my seat in typing class to Jean Davies. I, Eddy Benoit, do hereby bequeath my track ability to Cannon-Ball. I, Art Hollingshead, do hereby bequeath my trombone playing ability to Howard Wojahn. I, Martha Jo Lester, do hereby bequeah my cheerleading skirt and sweater to Mar- jorie Hoeppner. I, Wayne Johnson, do hereby bequeath my blonde hair to Mr. C. V. York. I, Margaret Smith, do hereby bequeath my curly bangs to Judy Gadness. I, Eleanor Tiemann, do hereby bequeath my shorthand book to Evelyn Piske. I, John Rice, do hereby bequeath my basketball ability to Dean Leake. I, Jack Woodland, do hereby bequeath my seat in Chorus to John Shuttleworth. I, Dorothy Douthett, do hereby bequeath my chemistry seat to Marguerite Burris. I, Peggy Jenkins, do hereby bequeath my natural waves to Barbara De Foor. I, Dorothy Chentnik, do hereby bequeath my ability to have colorful hair to Bertha Yaros. LAST WILL AND TESTAMENT I, Georgianna Covaciu, do hereby bequeath my whistle to Ruthie Yarnell. I, Londie Berger, do hereby bequeath my quiet air to Mary Woodland, who needs it. I, Esther Klassen, do hereby bequeath my long fingers to Ruth Yarnell. I, Shirley Smith, do hereby bequeath my slimness to Betty Moreland. I, Evelyn Herr, do hereby bequeath my skating ability to Wilma Egbert. I, Jayne Smith, do hereby bequeath my smallness to the Clark twins. I, Jack Dick, do hereby bequeath my inability to study Agriculture to Lester Luebcke. I, Ronald Hayes, do hereby bequeath my height to Eldon Powell. I, Harold Hazelett, do hereby bequeath my ability to fool the teachers to Howard Wojahn. I, Virgil Kaiser, do hereby bequeath my driving ability to Lawrence Grundler. I, Bud Bullock, do hereby bequeath my football ability to Calvin Prott. I, Lois Mitchell, do hereby bequeath my job in the book store to Kilroy and Richard. I, Charlotte Gernenz, do hereby bequeath my job in the book store to Kilroy and Richard. I, Norbert Saager, do hereby bequeath my ability to study Government to Lester Luebcke. I, Robert Harrigan, do hereby bequeath my ability to drive a car to Ruth Jones. I, Fred Titley, do hereby bequeath my chemistry book right back to the author, Charles Dull. I, A1 Smith, do hereby bequeath my stories with happy endings to Sammy Reed. I, Robin Belcher, do hereby bequeath my car or automobile to Bennet’s Junkyard. I, Reed Jacobus, do hereby bequeath my good grades to Roy Merrill. I, A1 Gernenz, do hereby bequeath my height to Bobby Reed. I, Ray Franz, do hereby bequeath my ability to drive a car to Betty Lou Borman. I, Charlotte Petersen, do hereby bequeath my place at John’s store to my sister, Esther. We hereby surrender the above mentioned diversified assets of the Class of ’47 and instruct their recipients to accept them without question or complaint. SEALED: Kilroy Richard WITNESSES: The Old Lamplighter The Rickety Rickshaw Man JUNIOR HISTORY 48th Division The 48th Division began their military career back in September of 1944. General Bill Purcell and his Aide, James Shaver, were leaders of this Division. Other staff officers were Sergeant, Jack Purcell ; Officer of Finance, Marvin Franz; and Messenger, Richard Spiroff. Military advisors for this initial battle were Mr. Pruitt, Miss Knoop, and Mr. Eddy. Under a change of leadership, they continued the Battle of Wits through another year. Although no victories are recorded, we must not minimize the importance of this Sophomore campaign. Officers command- ing the situation were General Bob Thomas and his Aide, Carole Tonagel ; Staff Sergeant, George Brewer ; Finance Officer, Marlene Kros ; and Mes- senger, Marjorie Hoeppner; Commander-in-Chief, Mr. Pruitt. Entering their third year of warfare, the 48th Division again made a change of leadership. Since finances were low, General Marjorie Hoep- pner called a meeting of her staff, Aide, Purcell ; Sergeant, Borman ; and Officer of Finance, M. Kros, to plan a fund raising campaign. This was accomplished through the sale of Pirate pins. Other important events of the Junior battle were the Class Play, “One Wild Night,” the annual Junior Dance, and the Junior-Senior Prom. Much of their success in this campaign was due to the untiring efforts of Mrs. Lester and Mr. Pruitt. JUNIOR GLASS Seated: Sponsor, Frank Pruitt; Lawrence Grundler; Bill Purcell; Marge Hoep- ner; President, Betty Lou Borman; Marlene Kros; Julie Ann Wentland; Sponsor, Leah Lester. Row II: June Bowers, Jean Series, Henrietta Fleck, George Brewer, Tom Crew, Joe Pollock, Robert Appleton, Ed Vereb, Irene Bodnar, Eileen Stofa, Mary Ellen Korpita. Row III. Esther Petersen, Geraldine Keilman, Flora Mager, Joyce Mandly, Ann Horn, Ila Mae Kimble, Betty Wesley, Vallie Collins, Patsy Spurr, Bonnie Price, Marilyn Wood. Row IV : Lester Luebcke, David Howerton, Robert Bodamer, Arlen Mohler, Paul Bennington, Bob Cummings, Roy Merrill, Bob Springer, Douglas Wietbrock, Howard Wojahn. JUNIOR CLASS Seated: Ruth Bodamer, Ruth Yarnell, Norma J. Bushong, Bill Wilson, Edwin Huelster, Jack Purcell, Alice Lanham, Josephine Halfman. Row II: Eileen Magee, Marguerite Burris, Ruth Wininger, Yvonne Davis, Ruth Jones, Dorothy Magnuson, Marianna O’Brien, Inga Steinhaus, Wilma Egbert. Row III: Barbara De Foor, Evelyn Piske, Barbara Popp, Joyce Ann Anderson, Ida McDonald, Jean Davies, Virginia Ferrell, Carole Tonagel. Row IV: Charles Thompson, James Moninger, Richard Spiroff, Robert Thomas, Bob Sullivan, Jack La ' haie, Chester Maihofer, Harry Davis, John Johnson. PROM KING AND QUEEN CANDIDATES Seated: Barbara De Foor, Bob Springer, Betty Lou Borman, Bob Thomas, Alice Lanham. Standing: Jack Lahaie. SOPHOMORE HISTORY 49th Division The 49th Division was mobilized in September, 1945. Their military personnel were as follows: General, Bob Kraft; General’s Aide, Bob Reichanadter ; Staff Sergeant, Bill Phelps; Finance Officer, Mike Senko; and Messenger, Joyce Neff. Sometime during the campaign, Sgt. Bill Phelps was transferred to another regiment (Crown Point High). Diego Perez was then promoted to the rank of Staff Sergeant. This valiant struggle in the “Battle of Wits” was rewarded by one important victory, a very successful class party. Military advisers for the first year were Mr. J. R. Browning and Mrs. Irene Collins. During their 1946 campaign, the 49th Division operated under the leadership of General Corrine McLaverty. Her Aide was Raymond Clements ; Staff Sergeant, Mary Woodland ; Finance Officer, Andy Mital ; and Messenger, Delores Nearing. Again, one officer was transferred. This time Michael Senko replaced Andy Mital as Finance Officer. Although the forces fought hard, no important victoi’ies were re- corded, so we assume it must have been a very even struggle. “Forty-niners” looked to Mrs. Carlton, Mrs. Collins, and Mr. Need- ham for moral support during this year of battle. FRESHMAN HISTORY 50th Division September, 1946, saw the 50th Division off to a good start in their four-year battle for the honor of old M. H. S. Having completed their basic training (initiation) early in the year, they were quite confident of win- ning numerous victories in their struggle against Algebra, Latin, etc. Commanding officers were General Pat Sullivan and his Aide, Dan Molchan ; Staff Sergeant, Patty Shearer; Finance Officer, Billy Kimble. Military strategists for this campaign were Miss Cox and Mr. Dem- aree. SOPHOMORE CLASS Seated: Sponsors, Philip Needham, Irene Collins, Raymond Clements, Vice- President, Michel Senko, Treasurer, Delores Nearing, Reporter, Corinne MacLaverty, President, Mary Woodland, Secretary, Joyce Hancock, Yvonne Miller, and Sponsor, Mrs. Carlton. Row II: Bertha Yaros, Joyce Neff, Bonnie Sullivan, Donna Lou Henrichs, Bev- erly Davis, Carl Johnson, Samuel Reed, Carolyn Hockett, Margaret Jacobus, Char- lotte Grey, Betty Henderson, Shirley Powell, and Dorothy Philips. Row III: Carolyn Erwin, Dorothy Moreland, Virginia Baldner, Clarice Cook, Judy Greek, Reva Fellows, Phyllis Knoop, Virginia Franko, Katherine Halfman, Lillian Burris, and Barbara Weidmann. Row IV : Charles Wingis, Howard Weiler, Calvin Prott, Charles Harding, Donald Johnson, James Thompson, James Lennertz, Howard Bodamer, Burdette Homeier, Max Leffert, and Melvin Marshall. Row V : Beatrice DeFoor, Pat Knoop, Caroline Lennon, Roleen Clark, Joan MacDonald, Nancy Hatten, Marilyn Danielson, Alice Brek, Shirley Clark, Judy Gadness, Phyllis Borman, and Elizabeth Eurit. Row VI: Ralph Wood, Jim Juknevich, Robert Achor, Jimmy Welches, Bob Reiehanadter, Robert McCay, Bob Kraft, Harold Roy, Deigo Perez, Jack Wall, and Lanza Schwall. Row VII: Donald Connor, Herman Klahn, Peter Shoup, David Johnston, Ray Giacomini, Henry Mikulich, James McBrayer, Mac Bryant, Jerry O’Brien, John Shuttleworth, and Vernon Wichman. Absent: Norma Davis, Elaine Johnson, Marilyn Neiner, Eugene Bargfeldt. FRESHMAN CLASS Seated: Mr., Demaree, Sponsor, Rose June Leggitt, Dorothea Rendo, Bill Kimble, Dan Molchan, Pat Sullivan, Patty Shearer, Theresa Franko, Betty Forster, Mary Jesko, and Miss Cox, Sponsor. Row II: Norma Jean Lawrence, Helen Calhoun, Betty Bowers, Betty Bryant, Richard Lines, James Spurr, Donald Magee, Robert Franz, Richard Hall, Robert Reed, Elsie Wesley, Barbara Kwasny, Dorothy Swierczak, and Ocie Roy. Row III: lone Hayes, Luella Franz, Shirley Essick, Dorothy Wingis, Janet Cook, Grace Bodamer, Betty Moreland, Carol Jean Stoltz, Virginia Olejniczak, Louise Halfman, Elaine Wullenweber, Lois Stephens, Joann Yaros, and Carole Gernenz. Row IV: Frank Manis, Edwyn Wolff, Charles Hoeppner, Bill Riddle, Bill Hall, Charles Magnuson, Richard Brink, Charles Adams, Sheldon Popp, Don Leake, Robert Mager, Andrew Taylor, Eldon Powell, and Gilbert Tanner. ROW V: Rose Boda, Sue Krieter, Geraldine MacLaverty, Marilyn Burkhart, Mary Brek, Betty Ann Dick, Janice Noakes, Jerry Johnson, Joan Carlson, Paula Halfman, Eva Ratajec, Mary Ingles, Martha Lee Matthews, and Juanita Crum. Row VI: Donald Davis, Victor Williams, Richard Frankovich, Alfred Smith, Roy Tanis, Edward Jenkins, Ralph White, Edward Jeffery, John Snyder, Richard Johnson, Jack Sims, Robert Chapman, and Bob Wilson. Row VII: Jerome Krieter, Edward Black, Robert Fieler, Donald Carpenter, Richard Newman, Larry Lahaie, Dean Leake, William Douthett, Gerald Kuntz, John Mitchell, Tom Rastovski, William Ford, James Hollingsworth, and Donald Butcher. STUDENT COUNCIL Once a week during the past year, the Student Council, the governing body of the school, met with the faculty representative, Mr. Claude V. York, to discuss the various activities and social functions of the school. Throughout the year dances and movies, enjoyed by all, were sponsored. Also, several exchange programs were arranged. A new system was inaugurated in which some entertainment was provided once each week on rotating days and periods. Since no activity was provided, ‘we felt that this would be the best plan. The Council is composed of the presidents of the clubs and classes, the editor of the Mirror, the editor of the Merrillvue, and a member of the student body elected by popular vote. The officers for the year were: Fred Titley, President; Edward Yerga, Vice-President; Marjorie Hoeppner, Secretary; Corrine Mac Laverty, Treas- urer; and Patsy Foust, Reporter. MIRROR STAFF Of all the organizations in any high school, probably none affords more pleasure than does the school paper. Our paper, The Mirror, is published every three weeks, bringing the news and views of the school to the public eye. Miss Ruth Inbody, our sponsor, should receive an ample share of the credit for the success of the paper. She was the guiding hand at all times. Raymond Franz, the editor, also deserves much of the credit, along with his assistants, Patsy Foust and Julie Ann Wentland. The staff is composed of twenty students who gave their all to give you a good paper. Their resourcefulness and willingness are not to be overlooked when looking into the Mirror. SUNSHINE SOCIETY The Sunshine Society is a state society, founded in Crawfordsville High School in 1901. It’s object and purpose is best expressed in the Creed: With love in my heart, forgetting self, and with charity for all, I will make the object of my life helpfulness and kindness to others. I shall try to fit myself to give intelligent service in making my community a safer and more beautiful place in which to live. Thus will my own life become rich and complete. The organization has grown until it is made up of 218 societies with a total membership of more than 15,000 girls. The state convention, district convention, summer camp, and state project of annual donations to the Riley Hospital are now established traditions. The Merrillville chapter was organized March 29, 1938. The presiding officer this year was Pat Foust; Vice-President, Lois Mitchell; Recording Secretary, Julie Ann Wentland; Corresponding Secretary, Antoinette Klassen; Treasurer, Roleen Clark; Reporter, Charlotte Gernenz. STUDENT COUNCIL Seated: Ed Yerga, Fred Titley, Mr. York, Marjorie Hoeppner, Corrine Mac- Laverty, Patsy Foust. Standing: Marjorie Stockwell, Pat Sullivan, Ray Franz, J. B. Rice, Jack Wood- land, LaVern Burkhart, Lawrence Grundler, Pat Sager. MIRROR STAFF Seated: Rose Marie Coffman, Jack Woodland, Antoinette Klassen, Martha Jo Lester, Ray Franz, Patsy Foust, Miss Inbody, Noreen Ready. Standing: Eleanor Tiemann, Eddy Benoit, LaVern Burkhart, Bill Nolan, Lois Mitchell, Harold Hazelett, Louise Alexander, Julie Ann Wentland, Priscilla Newcomb, Londie Berger, Dorothy Chentnik, Thelma Downs. SUNSHINE SOCIETY Seated: Charlotte Gernenz, Roleen Clark, Julia Ann Wentland, Patsy Foust, Lois Mitchell, Antoinette Klassen, Mrs. Carlton. Row II: Bonnie Sullivan, lone Hayes, Betty Wesley, Ruth Yarnell, Elsie Wesley, Betty Bryant, Irene Bodnar, Theresa Franko, June Bowers. Row III: Carole Gernenz, Vallie Ann Collins, Eleanor Tiemann, Clarice Cook, Adele Bomeier, Rose Marie Coffman, Noreen Ready, Norma Bushong, Virginia Franko, Grace Bodamer, Virginia Olejniczak. Row IV : Betty Ann Dick, Shirley Clark, Ruth Jones, Eileen Magee, Joan Mac- Donald, Evelyn Piske, Barbara Popp, Marlene Kros, Esther Klassen, Patricia Knoop, Phyllis Knoop. SENIOR HI - Y The Merrillville Hi-Y club have truly carried out the ideals of the Hi-Y, to “Create, Maintain, and Extend throughout school and community high standards of Christian character.” Under the most able leadership of Mr. Floyd McCutchan, their director, the boys have ventured to conferences in Kokomo, LaPorte, and Michigan City. The enrollment was increased from twenty-four boys in 1946 to thirty-six in 1947. Hi-Y activities varied from selling pop-corn at basketball games to display- ing their talents in the minstrel show given for the P. T. A. carnival. The officers for 1946 were: Kenneth Burkhart, President; Kenny Greimann, Vice- President; John Rice, Treasurer; Jack Woodland, Chaplin; Edward Yerga, Secretary; Wayne Johnson, Sergeant at Arms; Eddy Benoit, Reporter. JUNIOR HI - Y The Junior Hi-Y was organized this year to give the Freshman and Sophomore boys an opportunity to do some preliminary work in the Hi-Y field. They follow the same principles as the Senior Hi-Y, and are e qually as earnest in their work. When the boys reach their Junior year, they will graduate into the Senior Hi-Y, an accomplishment to look forward to. It was the boys good fortune to have as their sponsor, Mr. Richard Demaree, who did a great deal for their organization. The officers for the year were: Melvin Marshall, President; Bob Reichanadter, Vice-President; Jack Sims, Treasurer; James Thompson, Sergeant at Arms; John Shuttleworth, Reporter. TRI - EP A formal initiation was held on October 29, 1946, to introduce the new mem- bers into the club. To increase our treasury purple and white yarn dolls were made and sold. Our main social event was a party given for the Hi-Y boys. In closing the year we gave a style show in cooperation with the G. A. A. The officers for 1946 were: Esther Davis, President; Patricia Sager, Vice-Presi- dent; Shirley Smith, Secretary; Louise Alexander, Treasurer; Barbara DeFoor, Re- porter. FUTURE FARMERS OF AMERICA Merrillville F. F. A. was reorganized in November, 1944, and has continued in growth and program of work. This year the club boasts a membership of twenty farm boys, all of [whom must be living on the farm, taking Vocational Agriculture, and be voted in by two-thirds of its membership. The chief activities of the club this year were a broadcast over WLS on the Farm and Home Hour and the District Meeting being held here at Merrillville High School on March 11, in which ten schools from North Western Indiana participated. Officers for the year were: Dis- trict Vice-President, Lawrence Grundler; District Representative, Bob Cummings; President, Lawrence Grundler; Vice-President, Norbert Saager; Secretary, Lester Luebcke; Treasurer, Bob Cummings; Reporter, A1 Smith; Watch Dog, Henry Miku- lich; Adviser, Loren R. Carrier. SENIOR HI - Y Seated: Wayne Johnson, Jack Woodland, Eddie Benoit, J. B. Rice, LaVern Burkhart, Kenny Greimann, Ed Yerga, Edwin Huelster, Mr. McCutchan. Row II: Bud Bullock, Bob Appleton, Tommy Crew, Joe Pollack, Reed Jacobus, Ed Vereb, George Brewer. Row III: Bill Purcell, David Howerton, Robert Bodamer, Jack Purcell, Richard Spiroff, John Johnson, Arlen Mohler, Ray Franz, Roy Merrill, Bob Springer. Row IV : Fred Titley, Jim Moninger, Bob Sullivan, Harold Hazelett, Paul Ben- nington, Ronald Hayes, Richard Adler, Chester Maihofer, Art Hollingshead. JUNIOR HI - Y Seated: Jack Sims, Bob Reichanadter, Melvin Marshall, John Shuttleworth, James Thompson, Mr. Demaree, sponsor. Row II: Charles Wingis, A1 Smith, Jerome Kreiter, Roy Tanis, Tom Rastovski, Lanza Schwall, Diego Perez, Calvin Prott, Carl Johnson. Row III: Ralph Wood, Don Johnson, Harold Roy, Howard Bodamer, Donald Conner, Forrest Welches, Jack Wall, Jim Lennertz, Edward Black. Row IV: Peter Shoup, Jim Juknevich, Bob Kraft, Jerry O’Brien, Mac Bryant, James McBrayer, Jerry Kuntz, Larry Lahaie, Herman Klahn, Vernon Wichman. TRI - EP Seated: Mrs. Boomershine, Barbara DeFoor, Patricia Sager, Miss Kettring. Rojw II: Peggy Jenkins, Louise Alexander, Shirley Smith, Joyce Anderson. Row III: Dorothy Douthett, Priscilla Newcomb, Ida McDonald, Ruth Bodamer. FUTURE FARMERS OF AMERICA Seated: Mr. Carrier, Norbert Saager, Lester Luebcke, Lawrence Grundler, Bob Cummings, A1 Smith, Henry Mikulich. Row II: Donald Magee, Max Leffert, Tom Rastovski, Burdette Homeier, Roy Tanis, Edwyn Wolff, Sam Reed. Row III: Jack Dick, Alfred Gernenz, Dean Leake, Bill Douthett, Virgil Kaiser, Pat Sullivan. G. A. A The girls’ Athletic Association is a national organization for all girls who are interested in participating in sports. In such a club, the principal of a “sound mind in a sound body” is the predominant idea. By participating in games and various sports, a better code of living is achieved and we learn sportsmanship and the neces- sity for quick, accurate thinking. The knowledge can be carried over into all school and home activities. During the year, various sport programs are carried out. Girls are given points for participation inside , and outside of school. Numerals, letters, state plaques, and sweaters, are awarded to girls earning a required number of points. Sports for which points may be given are softball, speedball, basketball, bowl- ing, hiking, swimming, ping-pong, volleyball, and dancing. Under the leadership of the sponsor, Mrs. Leah Lester, and the president, Mar- jorie Stockwell, the G. A. A. is progressing very well. SPORTS CLUB Among the new clubs instituted this year was the Sports Club. The apparent need for the organization and the interest in it were the main reasons for its be- ginning. The club itself is to teach the students the real meaning of the words, Loyalty, Leadership, and Sportsmanship. A number of interesting meetings were planned, and it is easily seen that they were successful. Their sponsor was Coach Englehart, and who should know better the ideals of the club than he? Through the efforts of their sponsor and the president, Danny Molchan, the club did exceedingly well for its first year. CAMERA CLUB As a hobby, photography has no superior. Its possibilities for interest to young and old are practically unlimited. It provides one of the best means of enjoyment and at the same time creates a permanent record of incidental as well as important events. With this hobby, as with many others, one gets the most out of it when club- bing together to pool ideas and experiences, to hold contests, exhibitions, and ex- changes of prints, and to hear talks and see demonstrations. For the sake of convenience, the club was didided into two groups, the Senior group, and the Junior group. The sponsors were: Mr. Frank Pruitt for the senior group, and Mr. Phillip Needham for the junior group. Senior club officers: Presi- dent, Harry Davis; Vice-President, Bob Harrigan. Junior club officers: President, Raymond Clements; Vice-President, Michael Senko. G. A. A, Seated: Marianna O’Brien, Ann Horn, Dorothy Davies, Marjorie Stockwell, Henrietta Fleck, Josephine Halfman, Barbara DeFoor. Row II : Mrs. Leah Lester, Dorothy Phillips, Marilyn Burkhart, Mary Brek, Barbara Kwasny, Sue Krieter, Shirley Essick, Norma Lawrence, Betty Forster, Peggy Jenkins. Row III: Shirley Powell, Carol Stolz, Luella Franz, Eva Ratajac, Gerry Keilman, Barbara Weidman, Betty Bowers, Patty Shearer. Row IV: Lois Stevens, Patty Mitchell, Pat Spurr, Jean Searles, Joyce Neff, Elaine Wullenweber, Joan Yaros, Jerry Johnson, Martha Lee Matthews. SPORTS CLUB Seated: Carole Tonagel, Douglas Wietbrock, Danny Molchan, Margie Hoeppner, Betty Lou Borman, Coach Englehart. Row II: Ocie Roy, Helen Calhoun, Bonnie Price, Flora Mager, Phyllis Borman, Donna Lou Henrichs, Lillian Burris, Virginia Baldner, Dorothea Rendo. Row III: Richard Hall, Richard Lines, Robert Franz, Gilbert Tanner, Don Leake, Billy Riddle, Eldon Powell, Andy Taylor, Robert Reed. Row IV: Richard Brink, Robert Chapman, Richard Frankovich, James Hollings- worth, Donald Butcher, Ed Jenkins, Dick Johnson, Bob Wilson, Billy Hall. Row V : William Ford, Ed Jeffery, Donald Carpenter, Bill Wilson, David John- ston, Robert Thomas, John Mitchell, Howard Wojahn, Bob Feiler. CAMERA CLUB Seated: Ruth Jones, Joyce Mandly, Mary Korpita, Peggy Jenkins, Robert Harri- gan, Harry Davis, Ray Clements, Mike Senko, Mary Woodland, Yvonne Miller, Joyce Hancock. Row II: Bertha Yaros, Marilyn Wood, Samuel Reed, Charles Hoeppner, Donald Davis, Mr. Pruitt, Mr. Needham, Beatrice DeFoor, Thelma Downs, Evelyn Herr, Charlotte Grey. Row III: Elizabeth Eurit, Eileen Stofa, Esther Petersen, Dorothy Moreland, Mary Ingles, Judy Greek, Inga Steinhaus, Judy Gadness, Dorothy Chentnik, Charlotte Petersen. Row IV: Margaret Jacobus, Alice Lanham, Betty Moreland, Paula Halfman, Bob Achor, Bill Nolan, Edwin Christie, Dorothy Magnuson, Reva Fellows, Carolyn Erwin, Betty Wesley. Row V : Yvonne Davis, Ruth Wininger, Caroline Lenon, Dolores Nearing, Bob McKay, Charles Thompson, Bob Stoltz, Jack Lahaie, Virginia Ferrell, Corrine Mac- Laverty, Alice Brek, Wilma Egbert. li t, l l|H� m AGAPELLA CHOIR Viewed from the educational as well as the entertainment standpoint, Merrillville chorus can well be said to have been one of the most outstand- ing f eatures of our school this past year. Under the capable direction of Mr. Hilmer Jacobson, the chorus per- formances were as follows : November 8th, 1946, the chorus exchanged en- tertainment with Crown Point High. Needless to say, both visiting groups were appreciated and well received. At Christmas time, a program of carols was given. Sometime later, the chorus took part in a concert given by the school band. On March 30th, 1947, the chorus sang at Central Bap- tist Church in Gary, and on April 15, 1947, at the State District Conven- tion, which was held at New Carlisle, Indiana. Their concluding performance was given at Baccalaureate services on the last Sunday before Commencement. BAND The band this year consists of thirty-nine members, and although the organization is small, it is continuing to grow each year. In a few years we hope to have an enrollment equal to that of other major schools in this vicinity. Under the capable direction of Mr. Hilmer Jacobson, who was for a time the director of the Gary Municipal Chorus, the students in band are acquiring a growing interest in music. Again this year, as has been the custom in the past, the Band Boost- ers have helped to furnish the organization with instruments and uni- forms. This was accomplished by the Tag Day Drive. A great deal of the credit for the band’s success should go to them. Fred Titley, Art Hollingshead, Robert Harrigan, and Wayne Johnson, all members of the Senior Class, received awards for being in the band four years or longer. ACAPELLA CHOIR Row I: Irene Bodnar, Shirley Powell, Mary Woodland, Caroline Erwin, Dorothy Moreland, Robert Harrigan, Mr. Jacobson, Lanza Schwall, Inga Steinhaus, Esther Petersen, Marilyn Wood, Joyce Mandly, Elizabeth Eurit. Row II: Bonnie Sullivan, Carolyn Hockett, Bertha Yaros, Charlotte Petersen, Beverly Davis, Calvin Prott, Jack Woodland, Dorothy Chentnik, Vallie Ann Collins, Pat Mitchell, Betty Henderson. Row III: Judy Greek, Wilma Egbert, Dorothy Magnuson, Reva Fellows, Edtwin Christie, Robert Achor, Wayne Johnson, Londie Berger, Eileen Magee, Judy Gadness, Evelyn Herr. Row IV: Yvonne Davis, Ruth Wininger, Marianna O’Brien, Nancy Hatten, John Johnson, Charles Thompson, John Shuttleworth, Burdette Homeier, Evelyn Piske, Marilyn Danielson, Shirley Clark, Alice Lanham. BAND Row I: Peggy Jacobus, Patricia Knoop, Mike Senko, Teddy Hendrichs, Charles Magnuson, Doris Spurr, John Snyder, Phyllis Knoop. Rorw II: Robert Harrigan, Betty Forster, Patty Shearer, Wayne Johnson, Patty Mitchell, Joe Pollock, Jimmy Spurr, Darrel Lauer, Tom Hoffmeister, Max Kirk, Roy Tanis, Don Leake, Deane Lewis, Fred Smith. Row III: Albert Lockwood, Bob Smith, Danny Molchan, Dorothy Magnuson, Calvin Prott, Henry Mikulich, Fred Titley, Shirley Havard, Peggy Bogan, Joe Titley, Donald Birk, David Bookwalter, Nolan Temple, Art Hollingshead. Standing: Robert McKay, Ralph White, John Johnson, Mr. Jacobson. FOOTBALL GOMES TO MERRILLVILLE Last fall, for the first time in Merrillville’s history, football was in- augurated on its athletic calendar. The team, consisting of twenty-four players, was coached by Mr. Demaree. A lot of thanks and appreciation goes to Coach Demaree from the team and the community for his fine guidance of the team. This, our first football team, was at a considerable disadvantage by having no previous experience, no home field, and no spring training. I am sure the community will be patient for a time, at least, until our playing facilities match those of our opponents. With the proper equipment and a little time, we feel sure that Merrillville will go to the top in football as it has in other sports. It matters little whether the team won or lost. It does show, however, that the scoring power was always there. In the six games that the team played the boys showed that they had courage and fight and a will to win. In the next few years, we hope to see Coach Demaree’s ragged cadets transformed into a hard hitting precision ball club. At any rate, time will tell. SCORES We OPPONENT They 6 RENSSELAER 32 6 CROWN POINT 33 7 WIRT 18 6 HORACE MANN RESERVES 32 19. LOWELL 45 6 HAMMOND NOLL 33 FOOTBALL INDIVIDUALS COACH : Coach Demaree is the one man responsible for growing interest in football. He has brought the game to us, and he has taught us the meaning of the word, “fight.” We are confident that he will make the football team equally as famous as the basketball team. BUD BULLOCK: A capable guard and quarterback, who packed plenty of fight for his size. Bud was one of the fastest men on the squad and used his speed to great advantage. BILL NOLAN: Bill saw a little action during the season, but his willingness is one of the things that makes a team great. HAROLD HAZELETT: A senior, and the heaviest of the tackles. Hazelett threw his weight at the right side of the line, and was always in there When he was needed most. ART HOLLINGSHEAD: Senior tackle, whose motto was “HOLD OR ELSE”, and fulfill that motto was just what he did. His wit and humor often pulled the boys through some of those tough spots! WAYNE JOHNSON: During the year, Wayne was used mainly for defense. He stopped them when the “chips were down.” In the Lowell game, he received an eye injury, but it didn’t seem to hurt his style of play. ED YERGA: A senior, who played right halfback. During the latter part of the season, he took over as co-captain and called the plays. Ed was a valuable team man and was always out to win. FRED TITLEY :Senior, served as co-captain, and shared honors at left end. Fred was a valuable man at all times and was the fatest of the ends. ED BENOIT: A hard running back and linebacker. Ed safw little action after a back injury retired him from play. During the first part of the season, he called signals and served as captain. RONALD HAYES: An outstanding end and probably the outstanding player on the team. His technique was unequaled when it came to catching passes. He will be missed greatly next year. CANNONBALL: Thompson was always right there when he was needed — water bucket and all. During the season he was Coach’s right-hand-man. Next season he hopes to be out there in a uniform. MARY WOODLAND, MARJORIE STOCKWELL, JOYCE HANCOCK, PATT FOUST: If cheerleading won ball games, we would have won every game. Football cheerleading was new to the girls, but they came through with flying colors and plenty of yells. They then continued on the basketball floor as second-team cheer- leaders. TEAM Row I: Jack Sims, Charles Harding, Bud Bullock, Jim Juknevich, Eddie Benoit, Danny Molchan, Eddy Yerga, Melvin Marshall. Row II: Fred Titley, Chester Maihofer, Bob Sullivan, Harold Hazelett, Paul Bennington, Ronald Hayes, Wayne Johnson, Jim Moninger. Row III: Dick Johnson, Bob McCay, Jack Griffin, Bill Nolan, Art Hollingshead, Bob Kraft, John Johnson, Coach Demaree. BASKETBALL HISTORY OF 1947 This year’s team was one of Coach Englehart’s best in his ten years of coaching at Merrillville. Its winning combination consisted of speed, aggressiveness, accuracy, and determination. This season was high-lighted by that astonishing win over Griffith in the Christmas Tourney, the sound defeat of Hammond Noll, and the revenge wins over Gary Edison and Hobart. Probably this team possess- ed the most balanced scoring power of any of the Merrillville teams. The varsity won the Lake-Porter Conference Trophy this year for the first time since they tied Gary Edison for it in 1945. They dropped their first game in the sectional to Whiting by a score of forty-eight to thirty-six, which wasn’t bad at all. The Pirates also were tied with Kouts for first place in the Calumet Minor Standings. With a fine record of eighteen wins and four losses accomplished this year, the Pirates are looking for- ward to an even better season next year. Long may the Merrillville Pirate’s Championship Flag wave. SCORE We Opponent They 24 EDISON OF GARY 37 51 HAMMOND NOLL 31 38.... CROWN POINT 25 34 GRIFFITH 25 50 EAST GARY 24 28 PORTAGE 21 39 GARY ROOSEVELT . 34 43 GARY WIRT 33 50 GARY EDISON .. . 39 45 HOBART 37 33... DYER 36 37 LOWELL 34 42 CROWN POINT . 37 51 EAST GARY .. 31 47 WHEELER 21 40 LOWELL 39 57 GARY WIRT 47 46 HEBRON . 23 37 Holiday Tournament GRIFFITH 35 41 HOBART .. . 42 44 CROWN POINT 28 36 Sectionals WHITING 48 BASKETBALL INDIVIDUALS DAVID JOHNSTON: Sophomore center and a regular all season. Dave was one of the best rebound men on the team. He should prove his worth in future seasons. BOB THOMAS: Cuppie has been an important man all season, for a Junior, he played a lot of basketball. We remember him, especially, for that last second goal in the Griffith game. WAYNE JOHNSON: Senior forward, and a veteran of two years on the varsity squad. Although he saw little action during the year, his ability was never doubted, as he proved in the Hebron game. LAVERN BURKHART: A fine ball-handler, and all-round ball player. He saw a great deal of action during the season and was right there at the right time. BOB KRAFT: Sophomore forward, and one of our most dependable players all season. Bob is a fine rebound taan and will, no doubt, be one of Coach’s best men next year. KENNY GREIMANN: No member of the team had more spirit than he, or showed it more often. The team will be sorry to lose him next year. BILL PURCELL: Bill is one of the finest ball players that we have seen in some time. He is equally skilled in dribbling, guarding, or shooting. His one-hand push shot brought him the scoring honors for the season. Bill will, no doubt, be the team’s main stay next season. J. B. RICE: Captain of the team, expert play-maker, high-scorer, and cool-headed ball-handler are just a few of Rice’s fine qualities. His consistent scoring power kept us out in front at all times. JACK PURCELL: Jack made up the other half of the Purcell combination. He is a cool, conscientious ball player, a dead shot, and a master at dribbling. Watch for him next year. ARLEN MOHLER: Arlen is a promising play-maker, and is as tricky as they come. His driving power should come in handy next year. RONALD HAYES: Ronnie’s height came in handy many times during the season, and his basket always came in at the right time. Remember the Lowell ' game when he put us back in the lead with only a few minutes to go? BILL WILSON: Thig was Bill’s first year with us, and we were glad to have him. His ability and aggressiveness were typical of the Merrillville team. GEORGE BREWER: A nice ball handler and fine guard. Brewer came in handy more than once during the season and will be back for more action next year. HOWARD WOJOHN — DOUGLAS WEITBROCK: During the year, the boys kept themselves busy doing things “behind the scenes” that help to make a team success- ful. COACH: Mr. Englehart is recognized as one of the best coaches in the state. A one- time champion himself, Coach now spends his time building the champions-to-be. His teams are always tough and fast and seem to have that extra something that is essential for victory. PAT SHEARER — EDDIE BENOIT — MARTHA JO LESTER: Probably no group of cheerleaders ever put more into their yells than did Eddie’s crew. Win or lose, they gave it all they had. SECOND TEAM Row I: Larry Lahaie, Ralph Wood, Danny Molchan, Melvin Marshall, Bob Reichanadter. Row II: Donald Carpenter, Burdette Homeier, Dean Leake, Pat Sullivan, Bob Feilef. How III:Coach Englehart, Bill Kimble, Dick Johnson, Bob Wilson, Roy Tanis, Charles Magnuson, Eldon Powell. HARD TO FORGET Our most deceisive defeat at the hands of Gary Edison, witnessed by an over- flow crowd. Gained our first victory and gave Hammond Noll their first defeat. Pirates made the Bulldogs walk the plank. In a hard fought game, we defeated Griffith for our first conference victory. The Pirates down Doyle Baliff’s Eagles by an overwhelming score. In a thriller, we knocked Portage out of the unbeaten class. The day before Christmas vacation, we travel to Gary Roosevelt. Result: A Pirate victory by five points. Remember when Thomas made the winning basket in the griffith game (Holiday Tourney) with three seconds to go. Wow, some game!! In another thriller of the Holiday Tourney, we receive our second defeat by one point, administered by Hobart’s Brickies. Getting back to the victory trail once again, we halted Wirt’s Troopers by a score of 43-34. In a revenge win, we rapped Gary Edison for the first time in three years. In another revenge win, we sank Hobart’s high hopes. After holding a 14-2 lead in the first quarter, Dyer came back to hand us a heart-breaking defeat. On a cold night in January, we slipped past Lowell by three points. Three days later, we defeated Crown Point in a real battle. Pirates drown the Eagles of East Gary by twenty points. During the sub-zero weather, we put the Wheeler Bear-Cats into hibernation. In the last quarter, Lowell almost upset the favored Pirates, we crowded them out by one point. Dotwning Wirt by a score of 57-47, we cop the Lake-Porter Conference Title. Bill Purcell and John Rice collect twenty-one and seventeen points respectively In the last game of the regular season, we defeated the Hebron Hawks forty- six to twenty- three. In our first game of the Sectionals the Oilers of Whiting make the Pirates walk the plank by a score of 48-36. Rice played his best game of the season. BASEBALL Row I : Coach Engelhart, Fred Titley, Bill Purcell, Bob Reichanadter, Melvin Marshall, Richard Adler, LaVern Burkhart. Row II : Danny Molchan, Bob Feiler, Bill Wilson, Jack Purcell, Bob Kraft, Jack Woodland, John B. Rice. David Howerton Bob Feiler David Johnston Ronald Hayes Richard Adler TRACK LaVern Burkhart Chester Maihofer James Thompson Eddie Benoit Jack Woodland Fred Titley Danny Molchan Bill Purcell Kenny Greimann A ■ J2Ac771 . llfatdjhnd. Sept. 3 13 20 Oct. 1 3 7 11 15 17 22 24 27 Nov. 1 6 13 15 20 29 Dec. 3 6 11 14 18 20 Jan. 2-3 6 10 14-15 17 24 24 CALENDAR OF EVENTS FOR 1946-47 School Opens, Oh! Boy, Aren’t we all happy!!! Merrillville’s first football team plays Rensselaer. Football game at Crown Point. We lost. Football game at Wirt. Movie, “Captain Caution.” Hi-Y Initiation. Boy, what they went through. Football game at Lowell. Our only casualty of the season hap- pened in this game. Senior Pictures. Has the Senior class got some lookers ! Wow ! ! Football game at Hammond Noll. Our last game. Sunshine Initiation. Teachers’ Convention. Teachers’ Convention. Vacation for the students. Senior Dance — Everyone is all slicked up. Club Meetings. Junior Play, “One Wild Night.” It sure was! Movie, “It Happened Tomorrow.” Band Concert. G. A. A. Dance. I see Miss Kettring is quite busy with her Chemistry class. Crown Point entertained us. Freshmen skating party — Oh! my aching back. Football Banquet. Christmas Program. FREE ice cream from Student Council. Christmas Vacation — It finally came. Crown Point Tournament — Beat Griffith the first game. Lost to Hobart in the second game. School starts again. Oh! aren’t we glad? F. F. A. Dance — Square and round dancing was featured. Snowbound — You don’t see me complaining. Look who is visiting the school. Several alumnae girls. I guess they really miss good old M. H. S. Crown Point, here. An easy victory. Sophomore dance. Were the jitterbugs ever showing their stuff. 29 F. F. A. visits the W . L. S. Broadcasting Studio. CALENDAR OF EVENTS FOR 1946-47 Feb. 3 Lions Dinner — that doesn’t mean animals — it ' s a club. 5 Edison East Gary. A victory for us. 7 Wheeler — second stringers got some practice. 12 Lowell — It was a little close but we won. S. S. S. Chili Supper after the game. Yhum, was it ever good. 14 Wirt — Last game and we won by a good score. 19 Youth for Christ Previews. 20 Club meetings first hour. 21 P. T. A. Carnival — Boy, were the Hi-Y boys black. Ha! Ha! 26 Class Meetings — I see Marjorie Hoeppner pounding the gavel for order. Mar. 11 F. F. A. District Meeting. 13 Hi-Y District Meeting at LaPorte. 15 St. Patrick’s Day Dance. Where were all the people? 21 Easter Movie, “Golgatha.” 22 Sophomore party and dance. Oh ! what fun. 25 No. School. What a disappointment. 26 Curtis Magazine salesman here. C’mon kids, let’s go! 26 Crippled Children’s movie. 29 State Solo Contest. April 1 April Fools’ Day. What a day. 2 Class Meetings. 4 Good Friday. No School. 8 Roosevelt gives a program for M. H. S. 10 Crown Point plays for our students. 12 Band and chorus contest at New Carlisle. 14 Junior Dance. 23 Senior Play, “The Campbells Are Coming.” The Senior class turns Hill-billy. 28 Clubs meet again. 30 Ideal Lady Tea given by Sunshiners. May 2 Sadie Hawkins Dance. The boys really enjoyed this dance. 5 Two weeks and school is out for the Seniors. Hurrah!!!!!! 16 Junior-Senior Prom. 18 Baccalaureate. 22 Commencement — Everybody is looking to see if Mr. York sign- ed their diploma. 9.9 Snhnnls OiiH H T M