Merrillville High School - Merrillvue Yearbook (Merrillville, IN)

Text from Pages 1 - 100 of the 1953 volume:

MERRILLVILLE HIGH SCHOOL Crown Point, Indiana FOREWORD editing of this book, our Merriilvue for ' 53, marks the end of ligfTschodl career for some ot us and, for others, only the beginning, ip. As we took the first step upward toward our final goal, graduation, little did we realize what an important part stairs and doorways would play in our school careers. The triumph you felt when you got a part Hvohgjjlfly : the heartbreak of flunking that important test--all we e steps forward ;™ -upward. Now we have reached the highest point in this one phase of our life. One dooPfPSiBWIliy( before it iosesVTet ' ’ ' us take a backward look TABLE OF CONTENTS ADMINISTRATION 5 FACULTY 7 SENIORS 11 UNDERCLASSMEN 31 CLUBS 43 FOOTBALL 57 BASKETBALL 65 CROSS COUNTRY 71 BASEBALL 73 ACTIVITIES 75 Outofpaper! No pencils! Gee, I for- got a typing eraser again! What a mess we would have been in if it weren ' t for our bookstore. Since 1939, the bookstore has been used and appreciated by all the Merrillville students. The smiling girls at the window this year were Marilyn Lavery, Pat Mitchell, and Nancy Downs. 4 EDGAR L. MILLER Principal CECIL A. GRAYSON HENRY P. FIELER Supt. of Schools Trustee S C. E. WALTERS Grade School Principal MRS. ELLEN FRAZ.URE School Secretary MRS. HELEN HAYDEN School Treasurer i If you have any unsolved problems or unanswered questions, your troubles will be over when you consult our office staff. Mrs. Frazure, our secretary, will take care of passes, excuses, and about everything. To get tickets or take care of unpaid bills, see Mrs. Hayden, our school treasurer. Mr. Miller, our principal, can give you advice and information on nearly anything. Under his capable direction, we are working towards entrance into the North Central Association. 6 IRA ANDREWS Grade and High School Art Purdue Indiana State Teachers College, B.S. NELIA BENTLY Speech, English, Journalism Indiana University A.B. in Speech ROBBIE BOTHWELL English Valpo University, B.A. GRACE BOVARD Commercial Indiana University, B.S. JAMES BOVARD Social Studies Indiana University, B.S., M.S. Butler University IRENE COLLINS Latin and Mathematics Valparaiso University, A.B. Indiana University University of Wisconsin RICHARD DEMAREE History, Football Coach Northwestern University, B.S, Purdue University Indiana University Akron, Ohio University RUTH EGGARS Home Economics Purdue University B.S. I. in Home Ec. EDWARD ENGLEHART Physical Education, Basketball and Baseball Coach Canterbury University, B.S. Indiana University, M. S. 8 DOROTHY HOBBS Physical Education and Science Seattle Pacific College, A.B. University of Washington, M.A. American Gymnastics Union Normal College CLYDE MOTTS Science Manchester College, A.B. Ball State Teachers College, M.A. Indiana University PHILLIP NEEDHAM Business Mathematics and Industrial Arts Indiana State Teachers College, B.S.. M.S. Ball State Teachers College Rose Polly ALEANA PHILLIPS Home Economics, Biology Indiana State Teachers College, B.S. FRANK PRUITT Mathematics and Science Indiana University, A.B., A.M. University of Illinois University of Louisville University of Missouri RALPH REISEN Librarian Indiana State Teachers College, A.B. Indiana University University of Chicago DORIS ROBERTSON Spanish, Commerce, Business Mathematics Ball State Teachers College, A.B. STANLEY SEMOKITIS Industrial Arts Indiana State Teachers College, B.S. Western Michigan College of Education RICHARD STUART Agriculture Purdue University School of Agriculture, B.S., M.S. NOT SHOWN: MISS SPARKS MR. MELTZER 9 OUR CHEFS Hmm — what ' s that I smell! Sure smells good. It must be coming from the cafeteria. Our cooks, Mrs. Ruth Johnson, Mrs. Pauline New- comb, Mrs. Mabel Midget, Mrs. Teresa Varro, and Mrs. Mary Miller have worked hard this year fixing appetizing meals for the students. Thanks go out to all for the wonderful work. 10 LEFT TO RIGHT: Mr. Englehart, Jerry Hamilton, Mrs. Bothwell, Nancy Clark, Judy High, Mr. Motts, Carl Kraft. SENIOR HISTORY Uncertain, but not bewildered --hopeful, but not unmindful of the future tasks ahead, we seniors can look behind us now, remembering our good times and achievements during the past four years. Our freshman year found us under the leadership of Carl Kraft, president; Kathleen Hunter, secretary; and Don Birk, treasurer. Club ’53, the freshman dance, was the highlight of the year. With Carl Kraft again leading us, we as sophomores chose our class sweaters, which were blue and gold. Other officers were Dorothy Shearer, secretary; Kenny Byerly, treasurer; and David Fryer, vice- president. During our junior year, the outstanding events were the choice of our rings, and the Junior-Senior Prom, Blue Moon, which was a huge success. After lots of hard work and many good times, the cast of Our Hearts Were Young and Gay regrettfully saw our play come to a close on March 28. We were proud to have Kathleen Hunter represent our class as queen of the Football Hop. The officers were Bill Amsbaugh, president; Phil Ayers, vice-president; Norman Schultz, secretary; and Bob Randall, treasurer. Seniors as last! We started a successful year with the production of Clementine, our play. The senior trip proved to be one of the best. Our officers were Carl Kraft, president; Jerry Hamilton, vice- president; Nancy Clark, treasurer; and Judy High, secretary. Soon it will be time for that memorable event when we march to Pomp and Circumstance to re- ceive our diplomas. 12 ’53 SENIOR HALL OF FAME BILL Willie AMSBAUGH Missouri 1,2; Senior Hi-Y 4 Sec- retary; Class President 3. DONALD Earl BARCLAY Football 1,2, 3,4 Honorable Mention; Basketball 1,2; Track 1,2; Baseball 2,3,4; Junior Hi-Y 1 Vice-President, 2 Sergeant-at-Arms; Senior Hi-Y 3 Vice-President, 4; Lettermen’s Club 4. PHIL Gunder AYERS Basketball 2,3,4; Track 4; Baseball 3, 4; F. F. A. 1,2, 3, 4; Lettermen ' s Club 4; Class Vice-President 3; Stu- dent Council 4. DONALD Don BIRK Football 1,2, 3, 4; Basketball 1,2; Baseball 4; Junior Hi-Y 1,2; Senior Hi-Y 3,4; Lettermen ' s Club 4; Class Treasurer 1; Band 1,2. 14 JERRY Goose BLAZE Football 1; Basketball 1; Baseball 4; Junior Hi-Y 1,2; Senior Hi-Y 3, 4. KENNETH Ernie” BYERLY Football 1,2,3, 4; Basketball 1 ; Track 1, 2; Junior Hi-Y 1, 2 Secretary; Senior Hi-Y 3,4; Class Treasurer 2; Band 1,2,4. BETTY Bodie BODAMER G.A.A. 1,2, 3, 4; Camera 3; Pep Club 3; F.H.A. 2; Debate 4; Chorus 3,4, NANCY Nance CLARK F.H.A. 2; G.A.A. 3,4; Pep Club 3,4; Sunshine 1,2,3 Vice-President, 4 Treasurer; Debate 4; Mirror Staff 3, 4; Annual Staff 3, 4 Assistant Editors; Class Treasurer 4; Band 1,2,3; Latin Contest 1,2. bronze metal. SHIRLEY Shirl BRECHNER G.A.A. 1,2, 3, 4; Pep Club 3; F.H.A. 2; Cheerleader 1,2, 3, 4. DON Codger CONRAD G.G. A. 1,2,3 President; Senior Hi-Y 4; Student Council 3. IS BOB Beak CRAIG Football 1, 4 Student Manager; Basketball 4 Student Manager; Base- ball 4; Camera 4; Jr. Hi-Y 1,2; Sr. Hi-Y 3,4. ANTHONY Yogi ESSICK Football 1; F.F.A 1,2,3 Reporter, 4; Camera 4; Chorus 3. VIOLET Vi CRAIG G.A.A. 1,2, 3,4; F.H.A. 2,3; Camera 4; Pep Club 3,4; Chorus 4. RUTH Ruthie FRANK Sunshine 1,2, 3,4; Pep Club 3,4; Annual Staff 4; Junior Play. DONALD Don DE VRIES F.F.A. 1,2, 3,4. SONDRA Sandy FRAZ.URE Sunshine 1; G.A.A. 1,2, 3, 4; Speech 2,3 Secretary, State Speech Contest, 4; Mirror Staff 1,2, 3, 4 Co-Editor; Annual Staff 4; Student Council 4; Majorette 1,2, 3,4. 16 RANSOM Ran FREEMAN Lew Wallace 1; Basketball 3,4; Cross -country 4; Sr. Hi-Y 3,4; Letter- mans 4; Band 2,4. DON Peuge GORGAS Football 1,2, 3, 4; Basketball 1; Base- ball 4; Jr. Hi-Y 1,2; Sr. Hi-Y 3,4 Treasurer; Lettermans Club 4; Jr. Play; Sr. Play. DAVE Bones FRYER Football 1,2, 3, 4; Basketball 1,2; Baseball 3,4; Jr. Hi-Y 1,2; Camera 2 treasurer, 3 president, 4 reporter; Lettermans 4 historian; Class vice- president 2; Student Council 3. CARL Beanie” GRIFFIN Jr. Hi-Y 1,2; Sr. Hi-Y 3,4. ANITA GOOD Sunshine 1,2;F.H.A. 2; Debate 3,4; treasurer; G.A.A. 3,4; Chorus 4. RALPH GUSTAFSON Jr. Hi-Y 1,2; Speech 4. 17 CLARENCE Smiley HALFMAN Jr. Hi-Y 1,2. JERRY Ham HAMILTON Football 1,2, 3, 4 Honorable Men- tion; Jr. Hi-Y 1,2; Science 3; Sr. Hi-Y 4. FRANK Hank HALFMAN Jr. Hi-Y 1,2; Camera Club 3,4; Sr. Hi-Y 3,4; Sergent-at-Arms. RICHARD Rich HERZOG F.F.A. 1,2, 3, 4; Chorus 4. DONNA HALSTED G.A.A. 1,2, 3, 4; F.H.A. 2,3,4 Sec- retary; Pep 3,4; Speech 4; Annual Staff 4; Junior Play; Senior Play. JUDITH Judy HIGH Lew Wallace 1; Sunshine 2; Speech 2,3 President 4; Mirror Staff 4; An- naul Staff 4; Class Secretary 4; Student Council 3; Junior Play. 18 ADOLF Genny HOHL Exchange student from Germany 1, 2,3; Speech 4; Science 4. KATHLEEN Kathi HUNTER G.A.A. 1,2,3 Secretary, 4 Vice President; F.H.A. 1,2,3 Treasurer, 4 Treasurer; Pep Club 3,4; Mirror Staff 3; Annual Staff 4; Class Sec- retary 1; Football Queen 3. JUDITH Judy HOLLAR G.A.A. 1,2, 3, 4; F.H.A. 2,3,4; Mir- rorStaff 3,4; Annual Staff 3,4; Band 1,2,3. SHIRLEY Jenks” JENKINS G.A.A. 1,2, 3, 4; F.H.A. 1,4; Pep Club 3,4; Annual Staff 4. RUSSELL Russ HOUCHIN Football 2,3,4; Jr.-Y 1,2; Sr. Hi-Y 3; Camera 3; Lettermans 4; Band 1 . ARTHUR Art KAISER Basketball 1; F.F.A. 1,2, 3, 4; Chorus 4. 19 SHIRLEY Shirl KING G.A.A. 1,2,3 Sergeant-at-Arms 4; Pep Club 3,4; Debate Club 4; Mir- ror Staff 4, Annual Staff 4; Chorus 4; Junior Play; Senior Play. CARL JOHN KRAFT Football 1; Basketball 1,2, 3, 4; Jr. Hi-Y 1,2 Treasurer; Letterman ' s 4; Camera 3 Treasurer; Annual Staff 4; Class President 1,2,4; Student Council 1,2,4. CHARLES Chuck KITCHELL Jr. Hi-Y 1,2; Sr. Hi-Y 3,4; Camera 3,4. SHIRLEY RUTH KROS Sunshine 1,2 ,3,4. MARIAN Birdie KNOOP Speech 2,3 Treasurer, 4 Vice Pres- ident; State Speech Contest; Pep Club 3,4; Sunshine 1; Mirror Staff 4; Annual Staff 4; Band 1,2; Junior Play; Senior Play. MARILYN Shorty LA VERY Sunshine 1,3,4; Pep Club 3; Debate 2; G.A.A. 1,2,3; Chorus 2,3; Junior Play. 20 FRANCES ARLENE MARSELEK Chorus 3,4. ed McDonald Football 1,2,3 Honorable Mention, 4 All-Conference 2nd team; Bas- ketball 1,2, 3, 4; Track 1; Baseball 3,4; Junior Hi-Y 1,2; Lettermans 3, 4 president; Class Vice-President 1; Student Council 1,4 Vice-President; Junior Play; Senior Play. DARRELL CHESTER MAXEY Football 1,2; Jr. Hi-Y 1,2; Sr. Hi-Y 3,4; Camera 3,4 Secretary; Chorus 4; Senior Play. DALE Clem McNARY Football 1,2,3; Jr. Hi-Y 1,2; Sr. Hi- Y 3,4; Camera 3; Mirror Staff 4; Annual Staff 4. 21 RICHARD Dick MIDGETT F.F.A. 1, 2, 3,4; Camera 4; Chorus 4. LESLIE Les NELSON F.F.A. 1,2,3 secretary 4; Camera 4; Chorus 4. BARBARA Texas” MILLER G.A.A. 3,4; Speech 4; Pep Club 3,4; Choir 3,4. MARY Mo OLEJNICZAK G.A.A. 1,2, 3, 4; Pep Club 3,4. JUDY Jude NEARING Sunshine 1,2 corresponding secre- tary; G.A.A. 3,4; Debate 3,4 sec- retary; Pep Club 3,4; Annual Staff 4; Chorus 2,3,4; Junior Play; Senior Play. DORIS POLOMCHAK G.A.A. 1,2, 3, 4; Pep Club 3,4; Chor- us 3,4. 22 BEVERLY Bev PRUIETT G.A.A. 1,2, 3, 4; Pep Club 3,4; Mir- ror Staff 4; Annual Staff 4; Chorus 2 . BARBARA Barb REVEAL Camera Club 1; Sunshine 2,3,4. ROBERT Bob RANDALL Camera 1; Science 2,3, President, 4; Speech 3,4 President; Mirror Staff 4; Annual Staff 3,4; Class Treas- urer 3; Student Council 3,4; Chorus 2; Band 1,2, 3, 4; Junior Play. JUNE RIDDLE G.A.A. 1,2,3, 4; F.H.A. 1,2,3; Pep Club 3; Choir 3,4. DOROTHY Dot REID G.A.A. 1,2, 3,4 Reporter; Pep Club 4; Speech Club 4; F.H.A. 2,3,4 President; Mirror 1,2,4; Annual Staff 3,4; Student Council 4 Secretary; Chorus 4; Band 1. FRED Fritz RIGBY Basketball 1,2; Track 1,2; Speech 2,3; Junior Hi-Y 1; Camera Club 4; Mirror Staff 1,2; Annual Staff 4; Band 1,2, 3, 4; Junior Play. 23 MARGUERITE Maggie!’ ROSENBALM G.A.A. 1,2 ,3,4 Secretary; Pep Club 3,4; F.H.A. 4; Mirror Staff 3,4; Annual Staff 4; Senior Play. NORMAN SCHULTZ Science 2,3,4; Junior Class Secre- tary. DOLORES Sag SAGER G.A.A. 1,2 ,3,4; Pep Club 3,4; F.H.A. 1,2,3; Annual Staff 4; Chorus 3. JAMES Jim SHAWVER Football 1,2; Basketball 1,2, 3, 4; Junior Hi-Y 1,2; Senior Hi-Y 3,4; Lettermans Club 4. PH YLLIS Phyl SCHNABEL G.A.A. 1,2, 3, 4; Pep Club 3,4; Mir- rior Staff 4; Annual Staff 2,3,4 Editor; Student Council 4; Senior Play. DOROTHY Dot SHEARER G.A.A. 1,2,3 Vice President, 4 Pres- ident; F.H.A. 2,3 Vice President, 4 Historian, District Vice President; Pep Club 3,4; Speech 4; Class sec- retary 2; Mirror Staff 3; Student Council 4; Band 1,2; Junior Play; Senior Play; Cheerleader 1,2, 3, 4; Prom Queen. 24 CHARLES Charlie SMITH Football 1,2, 3 ,4 Co-Captain Honor- able Mention; Basketball 1,2; Track 1,2; Baseball 3,4; Jr. Hi-Y 1,2 Pres- ident; Sr. Hi-Y 3,4 President; Let- termans 4; Camera Club 3; Mirror Staff 3,4 Co-Editor; Student Coun- cil 1,4 President; Prom King. JERRY STANDLEY Horace Mann 1,2; Basketball 4; Speech 4. DONALD Smitty SMITH Football 1,2 Co-Captain, 3,4 Hon- orable Mention; Basketball 1,2; Jr. Hi-Y l,2;Lettermans 4; Band 1,2,3, 4; Junior Play; Senior Play. DANIEL Dan STOLTZ Jr. Hi-Y 1,2; Sr. Hi-Y 3,4. ROBERT Bob SMITH Jr. Hi-Y 1,2; Sr. Hi-Y. GLORIA Glo” SULLIVAN G.A.A. 1,2, 3, 4; F.H.A.2,3; Camera 4; Annual Staff 4; Chorus 3,4. 25 BRYANT WADE Camera 1,2,3, 4 President; Mirror Staff 4; Annual Staff 4; Student Council 4; Junior Play. DOROTHY Joy WOLFF Sunshine 1,2,3; Debate 4; Annual Staff 4; Chorus 2,3,4. JAMES Moe WAROT Jr. Hi-Y 1,2; Senior Hi-Y 3,4; STEVE Sonny YAROS Football 1,2,3 honorable mention, 4 Co-captain All-Conference 1st Team; Basketball 1,2, 3, 4; Track 2; Baseball 2,3,4; Jr. Hi-Y 1,2; Sr. Hi-Y 3,4 Chaplain; Lettermans Club 4 Vice President; Annual Staff 4; Junior Play; Senior Play. 26 VACATION TIME IN ’63 Vacation time is here again; and, after due consideration we have decided to take a trip to our nation ' s capital and see if we might be able to look up some of out old classmates while sightseeing. Upon boarding our bus furnished, of course, by Birk ' s Busy Bus Business, the first person we see is the wealthy Texas oil man, Ken Byerly. He called our attention to our driver whom we discovered to be another of our classmates, Dan Stoltz. Consulting our guide book, we discover that one of the main points of interest on our trip is Tony Es- sick ' s cow farm, which we have been going past for two hours now. Quite a large farm! Reaching the half-way point of our trip, we refuel at Griffin ' s Greasy Garage oper- ated by Carl Griffin and attended by Charles Kitchell. Then we stop for a snack at Don ' n Shirl’s Restaurant owned by Don Conrad and Shirley Jenkins. Once inside, we are waited on by two sociable girls (Anita Good and Shirley Kros) who serve us our delicious meal. After reaching our destination, Washington, D.C., we hurry to the beautiful Reveal Hotel, owned by Barbara Reveal. The porter, Les Nelson, takes our luggage and directs us to the receptionist, Florence Lowell, who in turn, cordially directs us to our room. Ready for an evening of excitement, we jump into a taxi from (Delores) Sager s Cab Company and settle back for a peaceful ride. But it isn ' t peaceful long, for we are startled by a resounding crash. As we rush to the scene of the accident, one of Ams- baugh ' s Ambulances, driven by Rich Herzog, screeches to a halt, narrowly missing the police car drawn up at the curb. From the officer, who turns out to be none other than Art Kaiser, we learn the details of the accident. It seems that after completing Russ Houchin ' s Drivers Training Course, Bryant Wade had just wrecked his car. (Small won- der) After this harrowing experience, we calmed down enough to look in on Violet Craig at her Curio Shop to say hello. She also told us to be sure to stop in to see Midgett’s Auto Races, owned and operated by Dick Midge tt, another of the Merrillville Alumni. After promising to, we then hurry on to the Treasury Building where we have an ap- pointment with some of our friends who are now cabinet members. We are greeted by the new Secretary of the Treasury, Nancy Clark, who calls over the Secretary of State, Judy High, and the incoming Secretary of Agriculture, Don DeVries. They get together and offer us tickets to the Inaugural Ball, to be held the next evening. We accept with pleasure and arrange to meet there on the following night. Then changing to our best evening clothes, we prepared for an evening at the most exclusive night spot in Washington- -the one and only King’s Kastle, owned by Shirley King. We enter and are seated by the headwaiter, Bob Smith. While waiting for the floor show, we turn our attention to the audience around us. Seated at one table, we find the former Beverly Pruiett and her husband , the former Lucricia McDade and her husband, and likewise, Frances Marselak and Sandy Frazure. At last the lights dim and the spot light shines on the M. C., Fred Jack Benny Rigby, who introduces the first act, a duet composed of those singers, Judy Nearing and none other than Frank Halfman. The applause from this number has barely died, when the chorus line composed of Mary Ann Olejneczak, Doris Polomchak and Barbara Miller file onto the stage. After listening to the smooth rhythm of the duet and watching the diverting talents of the dancers, we were highly entertained by a rising young comic familiar to most of us, Jerry Blaze. Looks like he’s on his way up. The last act is a fast-moving acrobatic number lead by Betty Bodamer. Also in the troupe are June Riddle, James Warot, and James Adler. They were very entertaining. 27 Rising to leave, we are halted by a small disturbance. The bouncer Jerry Standlev is trying to throw out a drunk. After such a full day, we are very ready to return to the hotel and catch 40 winks before starting out again in the morning. The first thing on our schedule for the day is a football game between the Washing- ton Redskins and another pro team. Oustanding on the team are some of our former Pirate stars: Chuck Smith, Don Smith, Steve Yaros, Ed McDonald, and Don Barclay. The other team doesn t stand a chance with such an able cheering section led by Shir- ley Brechner, Dorothy Shearer, Maggie Rosenbalm, and Phyl Schnabel. (And they ' re pretty, too.) Right there getting a play by play pictorial report is Dave Fryer, the famous news- paper photographer. Also on hand --selling peanuts, no less --is Donna Halsted By the way, the team won. Then the high point of our trip is reached--the Inaugural Ball. We drive up in our limousine chauffeured by Clarence Halfman. As we enter and look around us, we notice other important people who are present, among them, the man responsible for leading his party to victory--that able orator, Bob Craig. He introduced us to the German Am- bassador to the United States, Adolph Hohl.whom we remember as an exchange student back in our senior year in high school. Another ambassador whom we meet is Marilyn Lavery, who carries our word to England. She informed us that Bob Randall had recog- nized an ambition of his by winning the annual Nobel award for oustanding achieve- ment in science. Then came the biggest thrill of our trip--meeting the new president of the United States--Carl Kraft and his able vice-president, Jerry Hamilton. We feel confident of a peaceful administration. At the conclusion of our trip, we drive toward the airport, owned by Gloria Sullivan and Dale McNary, and pass the brightly lit Roller Dome jointly run by Judy Hollar and Ruth Frank. Posted on the side of the building is a wanted Sign out for Don Gorgas alias Buggsy. Arriving at the information booth, we inquire of Dot Wolff where we get tickets She directs us to another ex-Merrillville student, Kathi Hunter, who sells them to us We are ushered to our seats by capable Dorothy Reid, the stewardess, who assured us of a safe trip. And with such able crewman, consisting of Phil Ayers, pilot; Jim Shawver, co-pilot; and Norman Schultz, radioman; we feel truly at ease. We meet another of our old classmates, Ralph Gustafson, who is a missionary to foreign lands. After chatting a time, we settle back to read a current newspaper. On the front page, we see glowing accounts of the jet ace, Ransom Freeman. Then turning to the sport section, we read of the latest feats of strength of Darrell The Mad Russian Maxey, who is now a famous wrestler. As we close the paper, our eyes are caught by a picture of the latest toast of Broadway. She turns out to be the stage star, Marion Knoop, now appearing in a successful play. We came to the end of our trip with a feeling of satisfaction in finding our class of 53 so successful in their chosen fields. 28 1. What ' s the at- traction? 2. The morning after. 3. Men at work. 4. Lovely To Look 5. American beauties. 6. You don’t have to twist my arm. 7. Sleepy Time Gals. 8. Hop in. at. 29 1. Someone crash your party? 2. Heavy bat? 3. A hair-raising expereince. 4. The Roaring Twenties. ’’ 5. Regular hill- billies. 6. Hail, Hail, the Gang’s all here. 7. The big night. 8. Aren ' t we cute? 9. Sing it, Kid? 30 JUNIORS GO FORMAL The year 1952-53 held many surprises and much excite- ment for the Junior Class. The excitement started with the choice of their class rings which arrived on November 26. Their dance held on March 9 was as successful as they had hoped. Their play directed by Miss Bently, was given on March 26 and 27. The Junior-Senior Prom, Dancing In The Dark, was held at the Crystal Ballroom on May 1. It was just as they had dreamed! They were led by their officers, Dale Peters, president; Shirley Miller, vice-president; Bill Horner, secretary; John Shotliff, treasurer; and Doug Ingles, sergeant-at-arms. Sponsors were Mr. Demaree, Mrs. Eggers, and Mr. Stuart. ROW 1: John Shotliff, Treasurer; Bill Horner, Vice-president. ROW 2; Mr. Stuart, Sponsor; Mrs. Eggers, Sponsor; Doug Ingles, Sergeant-at-arms; Dale Peters, President; Shirley Miller, Secretary; Mr. Demaree, Sponsor. ROW 1; Barbara Jones, Phyllis Manwaring, Charlotte Hunter, Shirley Hull, Mr. Demaree Har Helene Jursic, Helen Loyce, Norma Lewis. ROW 2: Marilyn Miller Gerne Jensen Janice Home • D ° ro y Standley Romona Monzulla, Rosalin Hornak, Pat Mitchell, Rheta Katrenics, Shirley filler Donna Lindborg ROW 3 George Keaton, Larry Herzog, Ronald Lakeburg, Dale Lape, Royce Jolley, Don Hurlburt, Fred Karrle. ROW 4 : Bill Horner, Don Leir, David Holkstra, Doug Ingles, Duke Karsten. ROW 1- Charleen Adams, Judy Gilliland, Mildred Alexander, Nancy Downs, Delores Cochran, Shirley Bodamer, Vicky Glennon Phyllis Harrigan. ROW 2: Jim Campbell, Don Hudock, Monty Halsted, Dick Fieler Rita Fried- rich Theresa BUnchi, Pat Hilbrick, Carol Cicenas, Sandra Borman. ROW 3: Joe Gilrowski Alex Fetkavich, Jack Williams, Bill Deeter, Bill Franz, Howard Ewen, Joe Hein, Darold Benton, Joe Chiado, Mrs. Eggers. 33 Retha Shawver; Jackie Saxton; Dolores Ogan; Loretta Szhlarski; Shirley Poor; Pat Smith; Pat ?° W Marll V n Rl chards; Dolores Roll; Marilyn Wilson; June Trussa; Modene Willis; Bob Smith- Dale Peters; Larry Monroe; Bob Purcell. ROW 3: Jan Pierce; Wayne Pruiett; Jack Pessmeg; Ralph Sellman- Gerald Pendle,0,,; Ar ‘ Duebe yi Eu8ene Webb ‘ ,am “ MelIe;Ron 34 SITTING: Miss Robertson, Sponsor; Bert Stringham, President; Sharon Marshall, Treasurer; Joyce Johnson, Repre- sentative; Mr. Bovard, Sponsor. STANDING: Maggie Sheets, Sergeant -at-Arms; Mr. Semokitis, Sponsor; Warren Engstrom, Secretary, Nancy Appleton, Vice-President. SOPHOMORES One of the most active Sophomore classes at Merrillville, was the class this year led by the officers, Bert Stringham, President; Nancy Appleton, Vice-President; Warren Eng- strom, Secretary; and Sharon Marshall, Treasurer. The sponsors, Mr. Semokitis, Miss Robertson, and Mr. Bovard, were kept busy with such activities as the arrival of their sweaters, which were black and gold. An enjoyable time was had by the Sophomores at a Christmas party at the home of Mr. Semokitis. A radio and class sweater were given to Yvonne Aubuchon, their classmate who had polio. March 20 found them sponsoring their dance for the year, which was very successful. ROW 1; Pat Banser, Theresa Cochran, Peggy Berrier, Nancy Appleton, Gerrie Griffin, Jill Frank, Pat Lewis, Gladys Barclay, Wanda Frogge, Nancy Frazure. ROW 2: Barbara Bilous, Luella Bardwell, Judy Clark, Chuck Ashton, Bob Covaciu, Jim Backe, Dave Black, Phillip Fisher, Bill Craig. ROW 3 : Delbert Bateman, Bruce DePew, Joe Dou’thett, Arlin Cole, Mr. Bovard, Jack Elkins, Perry Stout, Warren Engstrom, Ronnie Barbercheck. ROW 1: Mary Lawrence, Donna Hickman, Shirley Hurlburt, Nancy Jenkins, Carol Hunter, Lois Kros, Jeannine Jevicks, Julie Harlow, Carolyn Gearhart. ROW 2; Dave Gust, Arietta Legget, Anna Kopscick, Larry Golkowski , Don Lecik, Tim Glennon, Don Jones, Larry Lape. ROW 3: Don Lollis, Claude Klingaman, Ralph Halfman, Jim Glidersleeve, Tom Kokinda, Curtis Killion, Dick Lehman, Mr. Semokaitis. ROW 1: Judy Yohn, Mary Ann Vereb, Marilyn Weilgus, Shirley Razus, Peggy Severance, Peggy Sheets, Sally Ludkie, Mary Price, Barbara Yester. ROW 2: Sharon Marshall, Judy Showalterbaugh, Nancy Peterson, Joyce Shannon, ' Carmeta Thompson, Jeannette Mandley, Marlene Melat, Marsha Vargo, Andy Paulov, Bill Nichols. ROW 3: Roy Miller, Jerry Pierce, Dave Stolstz, Ray Niles, Louis Rocker, Richard Yurko, Tommy Sokol. ROW 4: Miss Robertson, Tom Mayer, Kenny Metcalf, Dick Poling, Kenny Lamprecht, Bert Stringham, Larry Nemeth, Laurel Moore. ROW 1; Miss Bentley, Sponsor; Bob Layman, President; Joann Wojohn, Treasurer; Mrs. Collins, Sponsor; Wenzel Wegman, Secretary. ROW 2; Mr. Andrews, Sponsor; Mr. Needham, Sponsor; Larry Lavery, Vice-president. FRESHMEN THROW PARTY This is the class of ' 56! Their high school career has just begun, but led by a group of well-selected officers and sponsors, they have taken their first steps toward greater heights. As they start on their careers, they are led by the Freshmen officers, Robert Layman, president; Larry Lavery, vice-president; Wenzel Wegman, secretary; and Joann Wojohn, treasurer. The able sponsors of these 145 Freshmen are Mrs. Collins, Miss Bentley, and Mr. Needham. Their main social event -- a party -- proved to be quite a success. Not to be outdone by the upperclassmen, the Freshmen contributed their share to athletics and other school activities. Be sure to keep an eye on the graduates of ' 56 as they continue the next three years in high school. 38 ROW 1- Judy Meyer Dianne Rose, Dolores Marando, Jane Soohey, Virginia Massengill, Shirley Reichanadter, Gweneth Klipp, Sharon My er, Barbara Nassey, Karen Nelson. ROW 2: Bernard Griffin, Peter Olvich Jim Davies, James Newcomb, Cosmos Smith, Deith Oaths, Donald Meyers, Bruce McDonald, Emil Smider ROW 3: John O’Conner Frank Perez Donald Mirscin, Jim Powers, Vic Mikenas, Jimmy Ray, Jay McCracken, Jim Randall, Joe Perdinia. ' ROW 4; Vincent Monzulla, Dick Powers, Jim Lewis, Richard Schulte, Ray Purcell, Bill Sanders, Miss Bentley. ROW 1- Carolyn Simms Wanda Stowers, Betty VanBlair, Bula Shawver, Carol Walker, Dorotha Stringham, Sharon Seivert Irene Sumurdy Pat Woods, Joanne Wojohn. ROW 2; Dorothy Taylor, Darlene Wallace, Marian Tyler, Judy Suroweic, Shirley Schiesser, Marilyn Schreiber, Lillian Wencil, Jean Shellhart, Carole Sciebert, Judy Welches. ROW 3: John Wallace, Eugene Smith, Bill Smith, Norbert Szhlarski, Mr. Andrews, Wenzel Wegman, Ralph Smith, Larry Yaros, Dann y Stevens. 39 ROW 1; Judy Hockstra, Barbara Homak, Phyllis Lowell, Nancy Karrle, Norma Jones, Betty Held, Jackie Kros, Norma Herr. ROW 2: Wayne Jungerman, Bob Halfman, Marie Loyce, Eleanor Larimer, Nancy Lewis, Carole Luebcke Marilyn Johnson, Jackie Jewell, Carolyn Jenkins, Nina Hurlburt. ROW 3; Lewis Horner, Toni ’jursic, Jim King’ Dee Lipke, Larry Lavery, Wayne Horner, Le Roy Kitchell, Bill Krieter. ROW 4; Mrs. Collins Don Harger John Hartsock, John Kraft, Don Hatten, Bob Layman, Jerry Komp, Jim King. ROW 1: Janet Halsted, Bonnie Felter, Beverly Essick, Joanne Fitzgerald, Rosemarie Friedrich, Ellen Blacko, Jane Halsted, Bridget Glennon, Carole Guernsey, Evelyn Grant, Judy Box, Virginia Case. ROW 2: Alan Ayers, Richard Anstak, Dale Fleming, Bryan Buhr, David Cain, Arnold Dewell, Wayne Dixon, CarlieGernenz, Terry Gill.’ ROW 3: Jim Davies, Bob Angerman, Robert Benson, Jim Dixon, Tom McDade, Dennis Dennick, Robert Frank, Don Arnold. ROW 4: Vincent Blomily, Henry Cook, Ralph Jeffery, Jack Cook, Douglas Dondanville, Bill Bennett, Mr. Need- ham, James Dowdy, Jim Franko, Ray Halfman, Richard Jeffery, David Dondanville, Robert Dondanville. 40 1. Come one, come all! 2. Which is the dog? 3. Cute quartette. 4. In the Good Old Summertime 5. The terrible two. 6. Look at the birdie 7. Babies must play. 8. Say cheese. 41 STUDENT COUNCIL The Student Council represents the whole student body. The purpose of the Student Council is to guide the school activities and promote worthwhile projects for the school. This year the council has published a student handbook. The Standard school crest has been adopted and approved by all. To help finance projects an Athletic Dance was held, and an Athletic Queen was chosen. True to tradition they sponsored the annual Athletic Ban- quet. The officers for the year were: President, Chuck Smith; Vice-President, Ed McDonald; Secretary, Dorothy Reid; Treasurer, Nancy Appleton. Ed McDonald, Vice-President; Nancy Appleton, Treasurer; Dorothy Reid, Secretary; ChuckSmith, Presi- dent. 42 Pay Your Dues CAMERA CLUB MEMBERSHIP ENLARGES The Camera Club moved into its sixth year under the able leadership of their sponsor, Mr. Pruitt. The officers for the 52-53 year were: Bryant Wade, President; Bill Franz, Vice-President; Shirlee Razus, Secretary; Don Mirscyn, Treasurer; Ron Baessler, Sergeant-at- Arms. The membership greatly increased over past years. Many of the members took great pleasure in taking candid shots around school and at athletic events. On January 31, 1953 the Camera Club sponsored a dance, which proved to be a great success. Mr. Pruitt, Sponsor; Bryant Wade, President; Shirlee Razus, Secretary; Don Mirscyn, Treasurer; Bill Franz, Vice-President; Ronald Baessler, Sergeant-at -Arms. 44 DEBATE HAS BUSY YEAR In its third busy year, the Speech Club was ably guided and sponsored by Miss Nelia Bentley. Co-operating with her were the officers, Bob Randall, president; Marian Knoop, vice-president; Judy Nearing, secretary; and Anita Good, treasurer. Besides participating in many debates in the Cal- umet Forensic League, the members entered various types of speech contests. A Legislative Assembly at Lew Wallace enabled the club to learn about speaking in the government. The most exciting event of the year was a trip to Purdue, where they took part in a Student Congress and Debaters ' Conference. A dance sponsored by the club proved to be quite successful, as were the assembly programs given. To be- come a member of the National Forensic League was the ultimate goal of the club for the year. Bob Randall, President; Marian Knoop, Vice-President; Judy Near- ing, Secretary; Anita Good, Treas- urer; Nelia Bentley, Sponsor. 45 Don Hurlburt, secretary; Duke Kar- sten, vice-president; Larry Monroe, treasurer; Rich Herzog, watch-dog; Art Kaiser, assistant watch-dog; Larry Herzog, reporter; Phil Ayers, president; Mr. Stuart, sponsor. FATHER-SON BANQUET FORF. F. A. The Merrillville Chapter of the Future Farmers of America has twenty-two members including seven new members. The first activity of the year was an officers ' training school held at Rensselaer on October 29. The motto of the Future Farm- ers of America is: Learning to Do, Doing to Learn, Earn- ing to Live, Living to Serve. The four degrees in F. F. A. work, are greenhand, future farmer or chapter farmer, state farmer and American farmer. All of the members are work- ing hard to advance into higher degrees. The Club has been functioning for seven years with a total of 173 members during that time. There was a father-and-son banquet served by the F. H. A. For money making activities the Club, with the fin- ancial help of Mr. Miller, made four hat and coat racks, which has been successful. Dorothy Shearer, Vice President; Kathi Hunter, Treasurer; Dorothy Reid, President; Miss Phillips, Spon- sor; Mrs. Eggers, Sponsor; Judy Hol- lar, Historian; Donna Halsted, Sec- retary. F. H. A. UNITES FOR BETTER HOMES The Future Homemakers of America is a national organization of students who are interested in homemaking and the betterment of family living. The colors of F. H. A. are red and white -- red for courage and firm determination to succeed; white for purity and integrity of youth. The year of 1952-1953 was opened with the initiation of twenty- four new members. Corsages of white and red were given to the sponsors and Chapter Mother. The installation of officers closed the homemakers year. Later in June, they will be represented at the State Convention at Pur- due University. The homemakers want to thank their sponsors who are Miss Phillips, Mrs. Eggers, and Chapter Mother, Mrs. Reid, for their help during the year. 47 G.A.A.’S BIGGEST YEAR On October 8, 1952, it was lollipops and pigtails for the G. A. A. This was the initiation of the new members into the largest club in our school. Daisy Mae and Li ' l Abner were our guests once again at the Sadie Hawkins Dance, April 10, 1953. One of the highlights of the year was our annual banquet at Teibels . Our new officers were installed and awards were presented for sports participation. During the year tournaments were held in the gym for bas- ketball, volleyball, and baseball. An outing on May 9, 1953, ended our busy year of activities. G. A. A. would like to extend a word of thanks to their able sponsors, Miss Robertson and Mrs. Hobbs. 48 1ST ROW: Steve Yaros, Lenny Schmidt, Jerry Hamilton. 2ND ROW: Ed McDonald, Dave Fryer, Jack Pessmeg, Coach Engle- hart, Jim Shawver. LETTERMEN’S The Lettermen ' s Club is a club made up of fellows who have earned a letter in one or more of the sports here at Merrillville. The activities of the Lettermen ' s Club of the past year have included a dance after a football game, fresh- men tournament, Jr. Hi-Y tournament and class tourna- ments. They also ran the concession stand at all home football games. The money they receive from these activities will be used so that each member will be able to attend the state semi and finals in basketball. Officers of the past year were: President, Ed Mc- Donald; Vice-president, Steve Yaros; Secretary, Lenny Schmidt; Treasurer, Jerry Hamilton; and Historian, Dave Fryer. 50 WE BACK THE TEAMS The Pep Club was really a great part of every bas- ketball and football game this year. With 100 members yelling and pepping the team to victory, the Pep Club had a very successful second year. The members sat in a block form at the games, wearing white shirts and purple ties. Later in the year the club bought purple hats with white M ' s on them. The club took a very active part in the yells and really sup- ported the teams at the games. The club was led by the Merrillville varsity cheer- leaders: Shirley Brechner, Dorothy Shearer, Delores Ogan and Phyllis Harrigan. The sponsors of the club were: Miss Robertson and M. M. Hobbs. Phyllis Harrigan and Delores Ogan, new- comers to the group of cheerleaders, join vivacious Dorothy Shearer and Shirley Brechner, who were our Varsity Cheerleaders for the third year. JUNIOR HI-Y REVISED Helped by the Sr. Hi-Y Sponsor Mr. Demaree, and officers, Jr. Hi-Y have tried to revise their club into a Christian organization. They have purchased a down box and new yard chains for our school. They also presented trophies to our outstanding football and basketball players. The club activities for the past year were as fol- lows: initiation of new members, a Hobo Dance in November, selling refreshments at home basketball games, and a picnic in May. They also saw a Pro Hockey game February 15. Officers for the past year were: Steve Ratajac, President; Bob Layman, Vice-president; Bill Craig, Secretary; Warren Engstrom, Treasurer; and Dick Poling, Sergeant-at-Arms . Dick Poling, Steve Ratajec, Bob Lay- man, Warren Engstrom, Bill Craig, Coach Demaree. 52 SENIOR HI-Y SETS THE EXAMPLE The Sr. Hi-Y is a group of older high school boys who having united in a common and challenging objective, are seeking for themselves and their fellow students the highest standards of life and conduct. Their expressed purpose is; To create, maintain and extend throughout the home, school, and community high standards of Christian character. The Sr. Hi-Y in our school has been working overtime to better our school conditions and bring a Christian attitude to the student body by setting the example themselves with a lot of long hours and hard work on their functional activities , such as their Clean Speech and Clean Sports Campaign. Also included is their campaign against writing on the walls, sending toys to orphans, giving Christmas baskets to the needy of our community, Christmas trees for the school, a scrap drive, and selling brooms for the blind. The recreational activities for the Sr. Hi-Y have been: A day playing in the gym, the fourth annual Christmas dance (which was a great suc- cess), Mother, Father, Son Banquet, and a picnic for all the club mem- bers. S3 Mrs. Bovard, Sponsor; Carol Cicenas, Corresponding Secretary; Donna Lindborg, President; Nancy Clark, Treasurer; Loretta Szklarski, Vice-president; Marilyn Weil- gus, Recording Secretary. WORKING FOR OTHERS” Others is the motto of these girls who placed service above self. The club is endorsed by approximately 60 members each year whose prime objective in life is being kind and helpful to other s . These enthusiastic girls have been mighty busy this winter. Early in the fall, they journeyed to Camden, Indiana, where they received recognition for having the largest group present for the district convention. Spring found them down in North Vernon, Indiana, rallying at the big state convention. Other activities included the formal and informal initiations, sending Thanksgiving cheer baskets; dressing 75 dolls for Christmas distribution through the Salvation Army; caroling with the F. H. A. girls; sponsoring the fourth annual sock hop; and giving their do- nation to the Riley Fund which is the State Project of the Sunshine Society. You should have seen how hard these girls worked on paper drives, too, trying to dig up enough money to finance their schedule. Highlighting their year ' s activities was the spring reception at which time they entertained and honored their mothers and ideal ladies. 54 Marilyn Senko, Secretary Treasurer; Adolf Hohl, Vice President; Clyde Motts, Sponsor; John Shotliff, President. SEARCHING SCIENTISTS The object of the Science Club is to get the students interested in the practical uses of science. Our club has increased its mem- bership, and we hope to have an enjoyable and interesting year. In December they sponsored The Last Round-Up Dance. Stu- dents were returned to the rough and tough frontier days for one exciting evening. Our future scientists made a trip to Inland Steel in January. There they learned how steel is made. Bob Randall and Norman Shultz have built projects for a Science Talent Search. Other members worked on their own individual projects . 55 1. This is magic? 2. Babies must play. 3. Safe! 4. What did you get? 5. What is it? 6. Now is the hour! 7. Time out. 8. Ready, 1, 2, 56 MERRILLVILLE’S VARSITY The Pirates were represented in ' 52 by a light, fast, always colorful team. The season ' s record was five won, five lost, but the Purple and White was in every game down to the last gun. We started the season with a 7-0 upset win over favored Gary Edison, which later became a conference co-champion. Then came a tight 13-7 loss to fast-improving Portage, with what would have been the tying points called back when Don Smith ' s brilliant 65 yard punt return was called back because he flicked the chalk- dust on the sideline. Our first conference game was a hair-raiser and we edged bitter rival Crown Point for the fourth time in five years 13-12 in the last five seconds. Jerry Hamilton, who stole the ball with 20 seconds to go, Ron Pendleton who punched over a T. D„ and Chuck Smith who drop-kicked the vital extra point were the heroes. Next we journeyed to Lowell to down the Red Devils 19-0. Griffith fought hard but fell to the Pirates 13-7. The Purple reached their peak in a touch-down shower at Wirt and smashed the Troopers 53-7, for the highest point total amassed by a conference team. Bitter rival Hobart smashed Pirate title hopes at Brickie Bowl 19-7. Valpo then dropped us 13-12 in a thriller, and East Gary nosed us out 14-13 in a heart-breaker. We closed the season on a 19-13 loss to Dyer. DATE SCHEDULE Sept. 6 M.H.S. -- 7 Gary Edison -- 0 12 -- 7 Portage 13 19 — 13 Crown Point-- 12 26 -- 19 Lowell 0 Oct. 3 -- 13 Griffith 7 10 -- 53 Gary Wirt 7 17 ” — 7 Hobart 19 22 — 13 Valpo 14 31 -- 13 East Gary — t 14 Nov. 5 -- 13 Dyer 19 58 RESERVES WIN CHAMPIONSHIP Coached by John Stefek the Merrillville Freshman-Sophomore football squad captured the Calumet Conference Championship and trophy as it marched through an undefeated, untied upon season. The young Pirates won eight consecutive games and were never behind at any time in any single game. They scored 154 points to their opponents 13 points. They defeated in succession Gary Ed- ison, Portage, Crown Point, Lowell, Griffith, Hobart, East Gary, and Dyer. Tom Mayer and Bob Covaciu were the co-captains. Leading point-getters were Bob Layman, Bob Covaciu, Jim Powers, Biff Craig, and Red Engstrom. A rugged defense and adequate reserve strength contributed to a highly successful sea- son. Coach Stefek kept his promise, If they win ' em all, I ' ll let them throw me in the showers. The boys made sure he kept the prom- ise. 59 JERRY HAMILTON, Right Guard ED MCDONALD, Fullback DON BARCLAY, Halfback All-Conference Honorable Mention All-Conference-2nd Team All-Conference Honorable Mention Top: Barclay carries the mail. Bottom: Wrestling or football? DON SMITH, Halfback All-Conference Honorable Mention LENNIE SCHMIDT, Halfback STEVE RATAJAC, Quarterback KEN BYERLY, Fullback Top: It ' s getting rough Bottom: This one wasn ' t blocked DAVE FRYER, Center TOP: Everybody ' s in the act. BOTTOM: Up we go. Dick Poling, Left End Dick Lehman, End Jack Pessmeg, Left Guard Doug Ingles, Left Tackle DICK FIELER RONNIE PENDLETON Left Guard. Halfback All-Conference Honorable Mention RONNIE LAKEBURG Right Tackle Where ' s the ground? DON BIRK Left Guard LARRY NEMETH Left Tackle MERRILLVILLE DOES IT AGAIN Because of losing the first six players by graduation from the 51-52 squad, Merrillville was in the process of re-building this year; and due to hard work and determination, the 52-53 squad came through with a very fine record. The Pirates, for the second time in two years, tied for first place in the conference and since most of the regulars will be back again next year, Merrillville can look forward to an even better season. The boys, this year, who put out everything they had at every practice and game, should be given a lot of credit for their splendid showing. Nice going boys ! Date Opponent We They Date Opponent We They Nov. 18 Crown Point 46 64 Jan. 7 Hobart 59 70 Nov. 21 East Gary 51 22 Jan. 9 Dyer 80 70 Nov. 26 Roosevelt 56 44 Jan. 14 Wheeler 76 68 Dec. 3 Calumet 78 61 Jan. 16 Crown Point 60 76 Dec. 9 Portage 64 55 Jan. 28 East Gary 74 60 Dec. 11 Noll 42 53 Jan. 30 Morton 78 60 Dec. 12 Edison 62 58 Feb. 4 Griffith 53 48 Dec. 16 Chesterton 54 49 Feb. 6 Wirt 65 38 Dec. 18 Crown Point 60 76 Feb. 11 Hebron 63 55 Feb. 13 Lowell 61 43 RESERVE TEAM JUNIOR HI-Y TEAM 67 Top: Jim Shawver Center: Don Hurlburt Bottom: Kenny Metcalf Right: Don Hattan 1. Two for Hattan 3. All tangled up. 2. Hang on to it! 4. Is it good? CROSS-COUNTRY INITIATED Merrillville initiated cross-country for the first time this year. Fifteen boys turned out and seemed to enjoy competing against other schools. Cross-country gives the boys who do not compete in football an opportunity to take part in a sport during the fall season. If interest continues to grow at the rate it has this first year, cross-country will soon become a very popular sport. In due time, Merrillville should present some good talent. Twelve meets are planned this coming fall. BASEBALL, A GROWING SPORT Baseball is fast becoming a very popular sport at Merrillville. Many boys are turning out for baseball due to the fact that we won the con- ference last year and have been playing more games . The majority of the boys are back from last year ' s squad, and if another good pitcher and catcher can be found another good team is in the making for Merrillville High School. 74 Eight o ' clock Does my formal look all right? Hope she likes the corsage! Prom time As we arrive at the brightly-lit Mar- quette Park Pavilion, we are greeted by the smooth music of Bud Pressner and his orchestra. After the first flurry of arrivals die away, we settle down to signing each other ' s memory books, having our pic- tures taken, and arranging our dance programs . After what seems to be just a few minutes, the high point of the evening is reached -- the crowning of Chuck Smith and Dorothy Shearer as prom king and queen. Standing in front of a large blue moon, last years ruling pair, Bill Springer and Joan Greimann, place the crown on Chuck ' s and Dot ' s heads. Then the grand march is begun. After passing under close to seventy arched pairs of hands, the king and queen e- merge and start to dance, with the rest of us gradually following. All too soon, we hear the strains of our theme, Blue Moon, signifying that the dance is at an end. Although the major part of the evening still lies be- fore us, we leave regretfully; for we realize that until next year our prom is over. SEMI-FORMAL DANCES Each of the four semi-formal dances this year left something special standing out in our memory. For the Senior Hi-Y ' s annual Christmas Dance, it was the very danceable music of Eddy Kay ' s band and the lofty, lavishly lit tree that the boys worked so hard on. Altogether , this made it one of the most unforget- table events of the year. Blue Hawaii, the Speech Club ' s contribution to the roster of semi-formal dances, lived up to its name in atmosphere and actuality. Swaying palm trees, a moonlit pool, and a rythmic hula, done by Jerry Jensen -- all these will be long remembered as truly mem- orable . Allen Isley ' s smooth music made the Athletic Ball one of the most enjoyable of the current season. And, of course, the crowning of the Athletic Queen was an- other high point of an evening that will linger in our memories for many a day. Candidates were Maggie Rosenbalm, Dolores Ogan, Donna Hickman, and Nina Hurlburt. The light-hearted, springtime quality of the soph- omore ' s April in Paris dance made this a wonderful climax to the semi-formal season. Each of these stand out for different reasons; and, blended together, they will remain as one of our pleas- antest memories of high school life. 78 aifcS . ip J 1. Hawaii — Lover ' s Paradise. 2. King and Queen Sock. 3. Hop. Hop. Hop, Hop, Hop! 4. And right back home! 5. Where ' s your shoes? 6. Circle all four! 7. Relaxing under the palms. 8. Time out for a picture. INFORMAL DANCES Are you going to the dance Friday night? Let ' s wear our drapes, Sounds familiar, doesn ' t it? In fact, you ' ve probably said it yourself as Friday night and the dance drew near. Let ' s take a look at a few of the informal dances this year that began with the F. F. A. record dance on October 3. On November 21, the Junior Hi-Y threw a Hobo Hop, with Shirl Brechner and Ken Byerly strolling off with first prizes as The Best (or worst) Dressed Hobos of the Year. And Ken, in his union suit, and Shirl, in a moth-eaten tux, really looked their parts. For all us Wild Williams and Calamity Janes at M. H. S., the Science Club ' s Last Roundup was a real treat. Decorated in true western style, the Dec- ember 5 dance was a big success. The first dance after the Christmas holidays -- January 30, to be exact -- was the Pinup Dance spon- sored, naturally, by the camera Club. With all the prettiest girls in Merrillville in attendance, the theme was carried out nicely and everyone had a wonderful time . On the eve of St. Valentine ' s Day, the F. H. A. ' s Hearts and Flowers Dance was held. The highlight of the evening was the crowning of the king of hearts, elected by an all-girl vote. Adolph Hohl, our German exchange student, was crowned by F. H. A. president, Dorothy Reid. The following Friday, the Sunshine Society ' s annual Sock Hop was held, with Carol Cicenas and Jim Shawver taking prizes for the most unusual socks. Four leaf clovers -- black cats -- rabbits feet -- all these figured prominently in the Superstition Dance sponsored by the juniors. Falling, aptly enough, on Friday, the 13th of March, this was one of the most talked about dances of the year. Foul-smelling corsages made of onions, radishes, and various other vegetables -- ragged jeans -- the Hitchin ' Post -- all were familiar signs of the G. A. A. ' s annual Sadie Hawkins Dance. Marryin ' Sam hitched up Daisy Mae to Lil Abner, and a wonderful time was had by all. This was the last informal dance of the school year 1952-53. Weren ' t they the best ever? 81 SENIORS’ CLEMENTINE” HUGE SUCCESS On November 13 and 14, the curtain rose on one of the best three-act comedies ever to be produced on the Merrillville stage. Clementine, which was written by Peggy Goodin, was the story of a girl who advanced from a tomboy to a young lady, and caused a lot of ex- citement doing it. Miss Nelia Bently ably directed the cast which consisted of twelve senior students. Phyllis Schnabel acted as Clementine, the lead; and Ed Mc- Donald was Hank, her rival in football and elocution. Everyone enjoyed watching the cast humorously helping Clementine as she endeavored to grow up. 82 � Before the big moment. How ' s that look?? CAST Clementine Phyllis Schnabel Hank Ed McDonald Mr. Kelly Don Smith Mrs. Kelly Judy Nearing Abe Carter Don Gorgas Bertha Donna Halsted Pete Steve Yaros Tubby Darrell Maxey Cathy Shirley King Jane Ann Maggie Rosenbalm Ann McNiel Dorothy Shearer Miss Pringle Marian Knodp Above: Watch out below! ! Below: Mother! Look at that hole! ! Not so much. 81 JUNIORS PUT BEST FOOT FORWARD” With shouts of Hit your verbs! and Show some reaction! , seventeen juniors produced Best Foot Forward, a three-act comedy by John Cecil Holm. The play, which was under the competent direction of Miss Nelia Bentley, was given on March 26, and 27. A prom at Winsocki Prep was the main event, and proved to be exciting when Bud Hooper was taking a movie star as his date. Gerrie Jensen, as Gale Joy, the star, and Joe Gilrowski as Bud, were capably sup- ported by the cast. Members of both the cast and the audience were sorry to see this exciting and hilarious production come to a close. The cast included: Joe Gilrowski, Dutch; Jan Pierce, Hunk; Bob Smith, Green; Fred Karrle, Satchel; John Shotliff, Dr. Reeber; Janice Horner, Miss Smith; Marilyn Wilson, Minerva; Isabel Miller, Ethel; Harvanna Meiselbar, Blind Date; Phyllis Manwaring, Miss D. W. Gup; Ronnie Lakeberg, Old Grad; Monty Halsted, Bud; Bill Franz, Professor Lloyd; Gerrie Jensen, Gale; Jim Campbell, Jack; Millie Alexander, Helen; Duke Karsten, Chester. MUSIC IN THE AIR There ' s music in the air when the choir is re- hearsing for one of its many activities. Miss Helen Sparks, a newcomer to the faculty, directed the choir this year. Under her capable direction, its forty-five members took part in various musical events such as the District Choir Contest held in Whiting, Indiana, on April 11. Included in its many activities were two concerts given in co-operation with the Band. The con- certs, which were held on March 11, and April 27, were enjoyed by all who attended. To close an interesting and busy year, the choir took part in the Baccalaureate service in the spring. 8 ? THE BAND If you happened to be walking through the upstairs halls anytime during the first period, you undoubtedly heard the members of the band practicing diligently on a piece directed by our very capable band teacher, Mr. Frank Meltzer. Although Mr. Meltzer was new to Merrillville this year, he did a very grand job in helping to improve the band. I am sure there were many people who appreciated Mr. Meltzer ' s hard work and patience when they wit- nessed some of the delightful halftime shows during football season, which were led by our drum majorette, Sondra Frazure. During the marching season, the band attended a Marching Band Contest at Valpariso. Late in January there were 24 entries in the Solo and Ensemble Con- test held at Emerson High School. Out of the 24 there were four who placed first and were eligible to enter the state contest. After several weeks of practice the band gave its first concert on March 11. Although band proved to be hard work and a lot of practice this year, it was enjoyed by all the members. We have many high hopes for the band in the future. 86 Here comes that girl again! Yes, we mean our drum major- ette, Sondra Frazure, who led the band through their maneuvers so well during marching season this year. This was Sondra ' s fifth and last year with the band. She said, I loved every minute of it. Following close in Sondra ' s footsteps this year were the girls who will take her place next year , Judy and Janice Mash- er, and Joan Keaton. This was the second year these girls have been with the band. Good luck to them in the future. THE MARCHING BAND 87 THE MIRROR Mrs. Bovard, may I have a pass out of study hall to work on the Mirror? I believe this was one of the most common and fre- quent requests around the typing room this year, as the Mirror Staff was kept very busy putting out a paper every two weeks. The Mirror started out with a bang this year with a circulation of 400 copies. The staff tried to create more interest in the paper by adding several new col- umns such as: student editorals, sports interviews, and a large variety of features. The Co- editors, Sondra Frazure and Chuck Smith, with the co-operation of the staff and aided by the spon- sors, Mrs. Bovard and Mrs. Bothwell, succeeded in publishing an interesting and informative school news- paper. Sponsor, Mrs. Bovard; Bus- iness Managers, Bryant Wade, Maggie Sheets. Left: Co-editors, Sandy Frazure, Chuck Smith. Below: Sponsor, Mrs. Both- well; Co-editor, Sandy Frazure. Art Staff: Dave Black, Windy Pendleton, Dave Gust. Mimeographers: Maggie Rosenbalm, Phyllis Schnabel. Sports Staff: Dick Fieler, Sports Editor; Dave Fryer. Typists: Judy Hollar and Phyllis Schnabel, Head Typists; Barbara Miller, Shirley King, Judy High, Maggie Rosen- balm, Ruth Frank. News Staff: Bob Randall, Dale Peters, Donna Lindborg, Feature Staff: Dorothy Reid, Shirley Miller, Maggie Ros- Nancy Clark, News Editor; Rita Freidrick, Modeane Wil- enbalm, Feature Editor; Jill Frank, Charleen Adams, not lis, Ritha Katrenics. shown, Marian Knoop. Bob Randall, Business Manager; Phyl Schnabel, Editor; Mr. Pruitt, Sponsor. Nancy Clark, Assistant Editor. THE MERRILL VUE Deadlines, layouts, identifications, money, pictures; these were just a few of the problems facing the Annual Staff in the production of the 1953 Mer rillvue . With Mr. Pruitt as Sponsor, Phyllis Sch- nabel as Editor, Nancy Clark as Assistant Editor, Bob Randall as Business Manager, and twenty-three other staff members, we be- gan conquering these problems. The dummy was made overthe summer, and assignments were handed out when school started. Have you got your write-up done? and, When can we get the pictures? were familiar questions during the year. Doing a good job on the write-ups were Dorothy Reid, Marian Knoop, Sandy Frazure, Judy High, and Fred Rigby. Checking up on the Writing Staff was the Copy Staff consisting of Donna Halsted, Ruth Frank, Judy Hollar, Shirley King, Maggie Rosenbalm, Judy Nearing, Shirley Miller, Charleen Adams, Marilyn Senko, Modeane Willis, and Ritha Katrenics. While they were going this, Shirley Jenkins and Kathi Hunter were finishing the division pages; and Carl Kraft and Steve Yaros were helping out on the sports. All during the year our Camera Staff, Dave Fryer, Ralph Sell- man, Jack Williams, were busy at dances and other school activ- ities taking pictures. All this costs money, so Bob Randall was kept busy with the coke machine and candy machines. We want to thank Mr. Pruitt for all the rolls and doughnuts he bought during the meetings. We also appreciated the support of the facility and students in helping to publish this book. 90 Writing Staff: Dorothy Reid, Manager; Sandy Frazure, Copy Staff: R. Frank, D. Halsted, Manager, J. Hollar, Judy High, Fred Rigby, not shown, Marian Knoop. Miller, C. Adams, M. Senko, M. Willis, J. Nearing; Rosenbalm, S. King, R. Katrenics. Art Staff: Kathi Hunter, Shirley Jenkins. Sports Staff: Carl Kraft, Steve Yaros. Camera Staff: Dave Fryer, Ralph Sellman, Jack Williams. Last, but not least, Marian Knoop, the senior who was al- ways late. Writing Staff. 91 Si c i 92 . ' . ■ .