Virden High School - Kennel Yearbook (Virden, IL)

Text from Pages 1 - 90 of the 1949 volume:

Q53 f,1,,1.' X N 'Al' K I :ESX QX ' sis? x '4 X Q I X X lf? 4 E4 n 31-Qt,-gif.: .-afi' if I ' A' 1' ' ,4 A , L' Q: 'ul .Q-,, 7 -, . . if 1 s '. - 1 ' y H , 1 I 42 N, 1 f -bmw W Y 4 A X A1 nw f f A 'W A 4 ' M' ' .A .r Proudly We Hail Through these cherished portals have passed generations before us in an endless chain of classes since MCMXXII proudly making their places in history. Your deft walls hold manytreasured memories . You are the symbol of our dreams past and present. Best Wishes from BEASLEY'S DRUG STORE 2 WE PREIE NT THE KENNEL QCA-V PLJBl.lfl'lED BY TI-IE KENNEL JTAFF OF VIRDEN COMMUNITY HIGH SCHOOL vmom, summons 3 Dedication To Elmer Rush, whose cheerfulness, unself- ishness, and faithful persistence will always brighten our memories of VCHS-we, the stu- dents, dedicate this, our annual. 4 SEATED: Mrs . Lair, C . Riffey, J. Hogan, B. Ward, G. Fahs, B. Hartman. STANDING: B. Boyd, G. Gazda, D. Las, R. Murphy, P. McCarthy, D. Bearden, G. Boyd, C. Peterson, P. Flowers. Editor .... Assistants. . . Business Manager Assistants. . . . . Senior Editor . . Junior Editor ..... . . Sophomore Editor. . . . . Freshman Editor . . . . Literary Editor . . . Assistant ..... Sports Editor. . . Assistant . . . Art Editor. . . Assistant ........ . Production Manager . . . . Assistant ....... Advisor . . . . . . Betty Ward . . Gene Fahs Jo Ann Hogan . . . .Carol Riffey Josephine Bednar Cynthia Peterson Louise Johnson . . .Barbara Boyd . Mary E . Lomelino . . . . .Leo Sestak .Marilyn Osborne . . . .Dorothy Las . . .Pat McCarthy . . .George Gazda . . Bob Murphy . . . .Pud Boyd . . . Bob Hartman .Darlene Bearden . . . . Pat Madden . . Mrs. Lair Compliments of BURRIS 8: RIFFEY, Hardware and Appliances s l ccccc 1 In Memoriam We, the students of Virden Community High School, wish to pause a quiet moment in memory of one who would have graduated this year. J'. Alan Vancil fSeptember 7, 1931 - August, 1948Q, the only child of Mr. and Mrs. Merle Vancil, moved to Virden when he was in the eighth grade. He graduated with his class in 1945 and went with them through three years of, high school. During this time, he was a very active mem- ber of the band, fully enjoying work on his coronet. Here rests his head upon the lap of Earth A youth to Fortune and to Fame unknown. Fair Science frowned not on his humble birth, And Melancholy marked him for her own. Large was his bounty, and his soul sincere, Heaven did a recompense as largely send: He gave to Misery all he had, a tear, He gained from Heaven Ctwas all he wished, a friend. No farther seek his merits to disclose, Or draw his frailties from their dread abode, fThere they alike in trembling hope repose,j The bosom of his Father and his God. -Thomas Gray 6 5 Q f? Boafd 8. Faculty ss X 'xx Board of Education I. W. RADFORD Wm. PERKS E. M. WRIGHTSMAN Best Wishes from the VIRDEN RECORDER 8 PRESIDENT E . T . GIBERSON Secretary R. P. SEIFERT M. D. CLINTON M. O. MCMULLIN W D. Principal Coach . E . BEST Music GERLACH English Faculty SUPERINT ENDENT J. ALLEN Office Secretary I. CRULL Science M. GERLACH Mathematics Congratulations to the Seniors from TOM'S MARKET 9 M. GILMORE Homemaking Library I. HARRISON Ass't Coach Physics English Adv. Math M. A. LAIR Commerce .T . SIMPSON Shop Faculty E . HARNITZ English Latin J. HERBST Agriculture I-II Science N. REED Social Science Speech S . WHIT E Art Compliments of SHRIVER'S DRUG STORE, WALGREEN SYSTEM 10 fi rj f'N Q, mm 9 Q, I f if yy . .K V g ,aifsa f ' X 4, Classes M. O. MCMULLIN GEORGE BOYD President Football cnpt., Glee Club, Band. Basketball, V.P. S.C.. Track. Ken- nel PATSY HINKLE Secretary N.H.S.fsec.J, Glee Club, S. C., Virdenite, class off. 131, Music Contest, Stud. Lib.,Dram., GAA Seniors AD VISOR BARBARA BOYD Treasurer Glee Club, GAA, Music Contest, Kennel, S. C. Dram., Cheerleader DWAIN HAMILTON Vice-President F o o tb all, Basketball, Track, Glee Club, Music Contest, S.C.,Stud. Lib. Congratulations to the Seniors from SCHAEFFER 'S JEWELRY STORE 12 DARLENE BEIARDEN Glee Club, Kennel, Vir- denlte. GAA GEORGE GA Pres. IZJ, Dram.. ball, Basketball, Kennel, N. H. S. C am e r a Club S. C. lp:-en., PAT FLOWERS Vlrdenite, Kennel, Stud. Lib.. GAA CHARLES GOODEN Football Mgr., Glee Club, Music Contest Seniors JOHN BRENNAN Football, Dram., Sec Soph. year. S.C., Stud Lib. ZDA Foot- JOSEPHINE BEDNAR Track. Virdenite, Kennel, Stud fpres.l, Lib., Band, GAA fV.P.l, J'. PAUL GOODE Kennel, Basketball Track MARY L. GIBERSON Virdenite fEd.l, Glee Club, Stud. Lib., Cam- era Club, Science Club, S.C., Music Contest, GAA Congratulations from PERKS 8: ALEXANDER 13 WANDA HOLSCHER Trans. from Modesto Jun. year, S.C., GAA WENDELL HOLT F. F. A. DOROTHY LAS Dram., Glee Club, FHA, Kennel BJ, Camera Club, GAA CHARLES LAKE Stud. Lib. Speech Con- testant, Science Club 1 Seniors Compliments of LEE'S CLEANERS 14 JOHN GWINN Basketball, Track, Foot- ball ELAINE KING G. A. A. AUSTIN HULCHER FFA, Glee C1u.b,Dram., Music Contest BETTY MCKINNEY Camera C1ub,GAA, Science Club ' THERESA OPREMCHAK G. A. A. LEROY LECHNER Football, Track, Bas- ketball, Dram. BURDELLA SCHNEIDER Trans. from La Salle- Peru Ml LESTER ROYER Basketball, Track, FFA QP:-es., Seniors DONALD LARGE Football, Track, Science Club, S. C. CAROL RIFFEY N.H.S.QVice-Presl,Glee Club, Kennel, Music Contes!,GAA,Virdenite. Stud. Lib., Homecoming Queen EDDIE PERKS NHS., Camera Club, Science Club EIVELYN SEIFERT Glee Club, Carnival Queen,Stud.Lib.,Homc- coming Queen Cnnrl., Dram., GAA, Speech Contest, Band, Music Contest. Congratulations to the Seniors from the NEHI BOTTLING COMPANY 15 Seniors MARIAN SEIFERT ' DONALD SCOFIELD F- H- A-. C1166 Club Basketball,Track, Foot- ball FRANK SMITH GEORGIA SEXTON Basketball, Track HARRIET SEYMOUR B11-,L TALKINGTQN Dram..Glee Club,Band. Fggtball NHS.. FHA. Music Con- test, Camera Club, Homecoming Queen, Science Club, GAA EDWIN WALKINGTON MITTIE SMITH Basketball, FFA Nice- Trans. from White Hall Pres.J. Football 131, GAA, Science Club, FHA, Glee Club Best Wishes from VIRDEN REFRIGERATION, Your Kelvinator Dealer 16 Seniors MARIAN STONE GEORGE WARGO Band, FHA, Stud. Lib., Football, FFA Science Club, GAA ALAN WYCKOFF IRMA TAYLOR Basketball, Band, Foot- ball, N.H.S., Glee Club, FFA BETTY WARD BERNICE WATSON Nl-lS,Glee Club,Camera Trans from Benld 121 Club fSec.l, S.C. fSec.l, Dram., Glee Club, Sci- Kennel, Virdenite, ence Club. Stud. Lib. Dram.,GAA,Homecom- FHA ing Queen Cand., Music Coniest, Science Club IDA WEAVER Band, GAA Congratulations from the VIRDEN RECREATION CENTER 17 Class Will We, the Seniors of 1949, Virden Community High School, State of Illinois, and County of Macoupin, do hereby declare this our last will and testament. I, George Gazda, will my good grades to Junior Rolando. I, Marian Seifert, will my quietness to Jo Ann Walker. I, Betty McKinney, will my roller skates to Jo Ann Hogan. I, Pat Hinkle, will my vivacious personality to K. Lahnun. I, Bill Talkington, will my ability to flirt to K. Crurnp. I, Barbara Boyd, do not will Jud to anyone, because I still want him. I, George Wargo, will my love for studies to B. Molitoris. I, Jack Brennan, will my ability to get along with teachers to Jack Nerone. I, Mary Lou Giberson, will my long hair to N. Norris. I, Burdella Schneider, will my afternoons from school to some other lucky person. I, Charles Gooden, will my violin to Art Williams., I, Leroy Lechner, willmy car to Lee Sharp for his out-of-town girls. I, Elaine King, will my laugh to Helen Dodd. I, Evelyn Seifert, will my shyness to Phyllis Hamilton. I, Johnny Gwinn, will my physique to W. Davis. I, Donald Scofield, will my pleasing disposition to Jimmy Gibson. I, George Boyd, will my blue eyes to Buss Lane. I, Theresa Opremchak, will my ability to get along with boys to R. D. Stewart. ' I, Dwain Hamilton, will my imagination to Marvin Hearin. I, Carol Riffey, will my history grades to Pat McCarthy. I, Austin Hulcher, will my tenor voice to Gene Fahs. Best Wishes from HEINS' CLOTHES SHCP 18 Class iWiII I, Frank Smith, will my height to Pat Sheridan. I, Harriet Seymour, will my flute to Lyndell Sexton. I, Marian Stone, will my drawings to all lovers of horses. I, Josephine Badnar, will my dark tresses to B. Pishler. I, Darlene Bearden, will my housekeeping abilities to Rita Jackson. I, J. Paul Goode, will my sense of hurnor to Pat Smith. I, Patty Flowers, will my freckles to Julia Sanders. I, Charles Lake, will my curly hair to J. Bristow. I, Wanda Holscher, will my bookkeeping grades to Doris Smith. I, Wendell Holt, will my bashfulness to Fred Reichert. I, Dorothy Lass, will my Shorthand eraser to C. Bortmess. I, Eddie Perks, will my football ability to Bill Whalen. I, Donald Large, will my name to Jackie Long. I, Lester Royer, will my basketball equipment to Tom Reichert. I, Georgia Sexton, will my nightly rides on the bus to anyone that wants it. I, Mittie Smith, will my P. E. grades to Pat Madden. I, Betty Ward, will my love for reading to E. O'Brien. I, Bernice Watson, will my love for jitterbugging to F. Grimmett. I, Ida Weaver, will my jeans to Cynthia Peterson. I, Irma Taylor, will my diamond to Ila Parker. I, Alan Wyckoff, will my place on the Honor Society to Edith McKinney. I, Eddie Walkington, will my Ag. project to some Future Farmer. Good Luck from RED 'S SHELL STATION Compliments of BECKER'S BARBER SHOP 19 Class Prophecy 1959 Dear Mrs . Lair, We were sorry that you couldn't attend our class reunion yesterday. None of the class had seen each other since graduation, 1949, so we were surprised to learn what some of them were doing falthough we had long ago predicted what some of them would be doingl. For instance: Darlene Bearden is running a boarding house on Main street, where she spends most of her time in the kitchen turning out biscuits that are all right, in other words, solid. Barbara Boyd is the contented housewife of the celebrated scientist and all-round genius, George M. Gazda. Mr. and Mrs. George Boyd now occupy the front attic of Bearden's Boarding House, where Mr. B. is working on a new canvas. Mrs. B., the former Evelyn Seifert, is his model. Jack Brennan and Bill Talkington became universally famous when they discovered a way to make a broom work by itself. Pat Flowers, Josephine Bednar, Elaine King, and Theresa Opremchak, are on tour of the United States, singing nightly to capacity crowds. Mary Lou Giberson has accepted a job with John Powers as a model. J. Paul Goode owns the Wreck on the Highway, ' modern, up-to-date, fire hazard. Charles Gooden, the celebrated violinist, is appearing next week at Carnegie Hall. Tickets are 5510.00 apiece. ' Johnny Gwinn has taken Tarzan's place in pictures, and will soon appear in Tarzan and the Scorpion. Good Luck from DR. T. R. McKEMIE, Dentist 20 Class Prophecy Dwain Hamilton was good draft bait his senior year, but we never dreamed he would become a general in the Salvation Army. Patsy Hinkle is getting rich quick from her poses for ads with the Pepsodent Toothpaste Company. Wanda' Holscher is bookkeeper at Lawder Grain Elevator. Wendell Holt liked blowing alleys so well, he opened one of his own. It covers a whole blgck, Austin Hulcher has finished transactions to purchase the remaining acres between Virden and Nilwood. Charming Charley Lake can now be heard weakly on The Hit Par- ade where he has taken Frank Sinatra's place. Dorothy Las decided she likedjeep station wagons so well that she now designs her own. ' Leroy Lechner, after onlytwo years in the navy, is the admiral of one of the navy's largest cruisers. Betty McKinney is a professional woman boxer. Her next bout is with Barrel-House Bessie. Eddie Perks, chemist at Allis-Chalmers, is all blown up about his position. Carol Riffey, one airline stewardress with TWA, is now married to multi-millionaire, Q. T. Stevens, whom 'she met on her 25th flight. Lester Royer is now Ag teacher and FFA leader at VCHS. The Store That Quality Built MYERS BROTHERS Apparel for Men, Women and Children 21 Class Prophecy Burdella Schneider is now manager of Ramey's Five and Ten. Donald Scofield, a graduate of the Charles Atlas school, is now com- peting in the Mr. America contest. Marian Seifert is a tight rope walker with Harnurn and Hailey Circus. Georgia Sexton liked school so well that she is going to become a college professor. From all reports , Harriet Seymour, rich society lady, owns a dirigible . It may be all hot air. Frank Smith is running for the Third consecutive year as mayor for Virden. Mittie Ruth Smith is on a short vacation from her position as fashion designer with MGM. Marian Stone and Berniece Watson have married at last. They met their men through' the Lonely Hearts Club and landed them with a swing- ing club. Eddie Walkington, newly appointed minister in Virden, recently per- formed the marriage ceremony of Irma Taylor and her fiance. After graduating from high school, Betty Ward took a civil service exam and is now private secretary to the President of the United States. Ida Weaver is now a mechanic in Don Large's Fix-lt Shop. Alan Wyckoff purchased a shoe store containing nothing smaller than size tens. The Store That Quality Built MYERS BROTHERS Apparel for Men, Women and Children 2.2 ' Class History. Year: 1965 Place: City of Virden Museum Our guide is taking us through the museum at Virden-let us listen to what he has to say. What's this? Agreen cap. It seems like that should mean sornething. Ah yes! I remember-in 1945, 65 green boys and girls entered VCHS, and had to wear caps just like this. I remember the boy chosen to lead that group-uh-Charlie Neighbors, it was. Yes sir, they had quite a class! At homecoming, their candidate for queen was Betty Ward, who was an attendant to Bernadine Cehrig. I remember that party they had in the gym-Mr. Gerlach and Mrs. Probasco helped them along. And quite a few of their boys went out for football, basketball, and track. And here is a sombrero and a paper apron. When they were Sopho- mores they served at the J'r.-Sr.prom and banquet. Again they had sev- eral boys out for track, football, and basketball. To 'lead them through that year they had George Gazda. In the social light, they went skating at Moonlight Gardens. When homecoming rolled around, their candidate Harriet Seyrnour was an attendant to the Queen, Norma Jombock. And what have we here? Quite a display, l'd say! A football, basket- ball, a rock and some flowers, a playbook, and some old clothes. They all must mean something-let me think. That football-when this same class were Juniors, the football team, of which they were a part, won the MSM. And that basketball-must be for the same thing, because they won the MSM in basketball, too, as well as in track. Um-- they were proud. That rock 'and those flowers! Oh yes, now I remember! The prom they put on was called A Garden Party -they did a fine job and their President, George Gazda gave a speech. Yes, its all coming back, now. In the fall of theirjunior year, 10 members of the class pre- sented the play Shiny Nose -yes, that's the name of this play book. And a fine play it was, too,-fine! Let's see now-these old clothes. Oh sure, I remember! The junior boys put on a style show at the Carnival. You should have been there-what a scream. Now let's move along. Ah! Here we have a football letter and a bas- ketball letter, and a track letter. Well, the Seniors certainly did well with nine getting letters in football, seven in basketball, and in track. And here's a National Honor Society pin-the Senior Class had seven members belonging to the National Honor Society. They were well re- presented. Here's a yearbook and a school paper, too! The editors of these two were both Seniors. Oh, I forgot to mention that the junior can- didate for queen was Carol Riffey, and she was voted the queen over all the school. And when they were Seniors, Evelyn Seifert was their candi- date, attending Phyllis Hamilton. And here, last, most important, is a diploma. This class graduated on May 27, 1949, with flying colors. And to lead them through their last year, they chose George Boyd. All right folks, lets move along now to the ancient history department. This is a bit too modern for us OLD FOGIES . Congratulations to the Seniors from HELEN'S DRESS SHOP 23 Mrs. Lair M. E. Lomelino Gene Fahs Jack Page Mr. Harrison Advisor Sec.-Treas. President Vice-Pres. Advisor Junior History Ah, to be a Junior! It's hard to believe that we are, and that three years have passed since we were freshmen, but so it is! And yet lots have happened in those years, expecially the last. But, let us start with the first. On September 3, 1946, there were seventy-five of us green freshmen initiated into VCHS. We had the largest class in school, and that was some- thing we were proud of. After a few days of school we elected our President, Bill Parker, Vice-President, Barbara Molitorisg Sec retary, Lowell McNaught, Advisors, Mrs. Gerlach and Mr. Crull. Helen Dodd was the Queen Candidate, attendant of Norma Jombock. This, our first year, was not so full of events as the next. On September 3, 1947, about seventy sophomores were enrolled in school. We elected for our President, Robert Murphyg Vice-President, Helen Dodd: Secretary, Jo Ann Hogang Advisors, Miss Vaupel and Mr. Herbst. At Home- coming, each class presented a stunt, and we were very proud that our class won first place. Helen Dodd, was Queen Candidate, attendant of Carol Riffey. On September 3, 1948, about sixty-eight Juniors were enrolled. After a few days of school when everyone had settled down, we elected our President, Gene Fahs: Vice-President, Jack Page: and Secretary-Treasurer, Mary Ellen Lome- lino: Advisors, Mrs. Lair and Mr. Harrison. Helen Dodd was our Queen Can- didate, attendant of Phyllis Hamilton for Homecoming. Our class is proud to say we won first place on our Homecoming stunt. Jo Ann Hogan and Helen Dodd were two of the Candidates at the Sweetheart dance, of which Helen Dodd was crowned Sweetheart. Our Junior Play Pro- fessor, How Could You? attractedavery large audience and really went over the best any play has for some time. Evelyn Brewer was one of the cheer- leaders for the basketball and football team. Early in the fall we made plans to earn money for our main event of the year, sponsoring the Junior and Senior Prom. We had a magazine sale and divided the class into teams. The winning team was presented a party by the losing team. Jack Page was high salesman and received a Parker Pen and Pencil set as a prize. We had several attractions at the All School Carnival also. The members of the Junior Class have participated in band, glee club, FFA, FHA, Speech contest and also have had ahand in helping with many other things that have helped to make this year's school term a success. Good Luck from PAGE ELECTRIC 24 ,Q L fix v 3 1 X . B ' ' A Q w X .W xx ff dx R. Bell W. Carney R. Davidson A. Freeman P. Hunt C. Bortmess M. Caufield B. Davis S. Gates K. Lahnum G. Brennan F. Copelin H. Dodd M. Green C. Lane E. Brewer G. Crawford A. Fairfull B. Handy M. Lowder .T. Bristow K. Crurnp M. Fedor M. Hearin L. Madden V. Carney B. Dalby V. Fedor J. A. Hogan P. Madden Compliments of HEINS' CLOTHES SHOP Z5 . J'. Madiar E. Marsaglia P. McCarthy R. L. McNaught R. D. McKiernan J. B. Moffitt N. 3 P . Moffitt E. O'Brien B. Molitoris I. Parker Morgan Murphy Nettles Norris L. Peregrin R. Pitman F. Reichert J. Rolando ts vu.. M. Sanders L. Sharp P. Sheridan R. Stengel L. Swagerty I. Van Huss Compliments of JONES' FUNERAL HOME 26 W, ,ivx . V ' P . :TH M, K 1 ' Q 2. +- ti' , i . 8- I . 'lift 1 L 56. F. Vincent J. Wainwright J. Walker B. Whalen L. Wieland A. Williams Mrs. Harnitz Jack Nerone Oren Lowder Phyllis Hamilton Advisor President Vice-Pres. Sec.-Treas. Sophomore History On September 2, 1947,we began our illustrious career, seventy-three strong, in the Virden Community High School. After being rouged and lipsticked by upperclassmen, we gathered our scattered five senses fthough some were mean enough to say we didn't have that manyj and cal- led a meeting, then we elected the following: President, Andy Gazdag Vice-president, Leo Sestakg Secretary-Treasurer, Cynthia Petersong Advisors, Mr. Crull and Mrs. Gerlach. Later in the fall, we selected Rhea Dawn Stewart to represent our class during the annual Homecoming Dance. Her escort was the Fresh- man President, Andy Gazda. We also had a stunt at the program in the afternoon preceeding the game. We flew through this year on the wings of our two social events, the first, a wiener roast, and the second, a rollar skating party. On August 31, l948,we again entered the doors of VCHS with a great deal of confidence for now we were Sophomores. The class was not quite as large as last year. The following were elected as officersg President, .Tack Ne roneg Vice-President, Oren Lowderg Secretary-Treasurer, Phyllis Hamilton. This year the Sophomore Class selected Phyllis Hamilton for its re- presentative at the Homecoming Dance. We were very much surprised and pleased when she was elected as Homecoming Queen. Both years we contributed several members to the band, glee club, athletics, and several organizations. Pat Smith and Rhea Dawn were first team cheerleaders. Having successfully completed half of our high school career, we hope to be back next year and continue to be good examples of VCHS citizenship. Compliments of, GARRETSON LUMBER COMPANY Z7 'km '-ln D. Baker M. Conder J. Gass R. Jackson H. Lomelino G. Baker B. Cox A. Gazda D. Johnson J. Long M. A. Beasley G. Dalby J. Gibson L. Johnson W. Maddox I. Bettis J. L. Dunlap B. Hartman H. Johnston B. McKinney R. Bray V. Gabbert W. Hern D. Jones E. McKinney C. Casper F. G1-imrnett O. Hines N. Langheim J. E. McMullin Best Wishes from DR. MARK PATTON Z8 S5 .1- 535 WV' A c .W . 4 g K' L S I . Y - A ku , if I Ji .Aww NE? L. Miles C. Pickard V. Sepesy B. Smith I. Summers .T. Miller B. Pishlar L. Sestak S. Smith M. Summers J. Nerone V. Pratt L. Sexton J. Starling R. Van Ausdall G. Orr I. Rees D. Smith R. D. Stewart L. Van Huss L. Peacock D. Robbins E. Smith R. Stewart J. Vance Peterson R. Sehon P. Smith G. Strukely D. Wargo M. Worth Compliments of VIRDEN DAIRY COMPANY 29 J. Simpson Bill Logan Max Sharp Edwin Rees Advisor President Vice-Pres. Sec.-Treas. Freshman History The sun was shining brightly on the morning of the 31st of August. Should one, standing on the steps of VCHS, have happened to look up, he would have seen a great, white stork floating overhead with a light green blanket in his mouth. This blanket contained 74 pieces of hurnanity, each one with his mouth wide open, hungry for the food that he was to find within the walls of Virden High School. Immediately after the stork had delivered his parcel to its destina- tion, the corners burst open, and out of the blanket crawled Bill Logan, leading the group. Max Sharp followed Bill ready to assist him in man- aging the newcomers. Edwin Reese followed Max, notebooks and pencil in hand, ready to record events as they happened and a multitude of other timid children filed in after the leaders to take their places as students of VCHS, Mr. John Simpson was chosen to Chaperone the host of stran- gers. The class took its first step when they nominated Marilyn Walking- ton as a candidate for Homecoming Queen. She attended Phyllis Ham- ilton as queen at the coronation on Homecoming Night. Many of the members of the class took bigger steps when they joined the football team, basketball team, FFA, FHA, Glee Club and Band. By the end of the year the freshman had open their eyes, discarded the modes and manners of babyhood, passed through the stages ofcraw- ling, toddling, and learning to talk, in fact had learned to assume re- sponsibility, and were then ready to proceed into the next three years of high school life striving to become citizens ofwhom VCHS will be proud. Best Wishes from RAMEY'S 5?-351.00 STORE 30 i S A n-an-1 f . f.- L. Adomitis D. Beniach G. Buck B. Conder D. Fouts D. James J. Bailey D. Bickel N. Carney B. Connally J. Gates S. Jenkins A. Baker L. Blake G. Castleman C. Downey L. Griffmh J. McCarthy N. Beard D. Boggart P. Caulfield D. Edwards D. Guy J. McCormick J. Bednar D. Brawner M. Clark B. Evans J. Hern M. MCWh1nnie B. Bednarchik W. Brubaker D. Clause S. Foster B. Hopper D. Meade Good Luck from CHEVROLET GARAGE 31 P. Miller S. Nettles E. Rees R. Selfert G. Tarr D. Weller I. Mitchel M. Osborne J. Richardson H. Sims C. Thomas J. Whalen R. Miesenhiemer R. Page T. Reichert W. Skecns S. Treat B. Williamson R. Mortimer P. Perks J. Riffey B. Starling G. Van Winkle L. Wolfe A. Murphy S. Pickett J. Roark P. Steele M. Walkmgton K. Nickols W. Reed T. Sehon D. Struke-ly M. Weaver Compliments of GIBERSON'S GROCERIES and DRY GOODS 32 vw' EQ 'fx f 11' N s.. A mf, Do ,f is- f S L 54337 N hu O le' r is QL.: lf Activities INTRODUCTION To the students of VCHS are offered many varieties of subjects and extra-curricular activities to give them a well-rounded foundation for their future work. LATIN II ART CLASS Compliments of the VIRD INN 8: GAIETY THEATER 34 LAT IN Latin ll is the only foreign language taught at VCHS this year. The eight students of this class, under the instruction of Mrs. Harnitz, have translated acc ounts of Caesar's Gallic Wars, and also quotations of famous Roman poets and statesmen. For a project, they are planning to do soap carvings. SCHOOL CARNIVAL On Friday November 19, people were crowding in the doors of VCHS waiting in line to get tickets. When we finally got inside the gym, what did we try our luck at first- the fish pond, penny pitch, dartboard, ring-a-cane, novelty stand, nail driving, hit Sambo, or did we go into the ghost room, have our fortune told, or try to win a cake? Well, I am sure before the evening was up each one was tried. As we entered the high school building we had to stop in the Art room and try our luck at Bingo. Then, naturally, we couldn't miss the lunch room to get something to eat. Then we started for the Auditorium to hear the concert given by the Girls' Glee Club,,to see the movie given by the Science classes, and of course, the Style Showigiven by the Juniors. Again we went back to the gym to take our last 'chance on the raffles for the blanket, turkey, camera, radio, and hog. The last event in the evening was a dance in which Leonard Westfall's Orchestra Furnished the music. It is by means of the carnival that different departments , organizations, and classes make much of the money they need during the year. This year we had much fun as well as the work and a successful evening. ART This year there are twenty students inthe art class under the instruc- tion of Mrs. White. At the first of the year, they studied the elementary principles of art. Later they put these principles to work with some very good paintings and drawings as the result. The students worked with chalk, charcoal, watercolors, tempera, and oils. Also some handicrafts have been taken up such as leather tooling, and modeling clay. New equip- ment includes a kiln for baking clay and new drawing tables. The class does not do all of its work in the classroom but on favorable days they go on -field trips . - - ' 35 HISTORY CLASSES This year at VCHS there are two World History Classes, three Ameri- can History classes, and one Government-Sociology class. Some very good projects were made bythe pupils of these classes. The World His- tory classes made soap carvings of things pertaining to Medieval History and also of one of the famous Greek types of coluxnns. The American History classes made soap carvings of famous American statemen, mo- dels of things used in Colonial times anda replica of a newspaper that could have been published during Andreivf.Tackson's presidential admin- istration. One class period a week is devoted to the study and discussion of The WeeklyNews Review which keeps us well informed in the field of world news. Miss Reed is the instructor of theseeclasses. COMMERCE The classes which make up the commerce department are typing, shorthand, bookkeeping and secretarial practice. This year three sec- tions of beginning typing include sophomores, juniors, and seniors. The shorthand class had thirteen students and really tried hard to learn those characters so they could become efficient stenographers. This year we had a small group in secretarial practice, so they were available for work for the office and other teachers. In addition to this they helped edit The Virdenite and the Kennel. They studied the machines that we have available, including the mimeograph, ditto, calculator and adding machine. The bookkeeping class is composed of senior students. They worked several practice sets and feel that they could at least keep records for themselves. Afield tripbythe bookkeeping and secretarial practice stu- dents to the Franklin Life Insurance Company was one of the highlights of the year. . Save At WESTERN AUTO ASSN. STORE 37 ENGLISH I - ' .iff ' 'nmwwxzh f HOMEMAKING III Congratulations froin KARAFFA'S STORE in Thayer Good Luck from HEINISCH LUMBER CO. in Thayer 38 ENGLISH CLASSES The Senior class, under the instruction of Mrs .Harnitz, studied poetry and literature. Recently, the drama Macbeth was undertaken, and the students were very much impressed by the stage interpretation by Jack Rank. This was held soon after their work on Macbeth was finished, and it illustrated many things that could not be clearly understood in the play. The Junior class, also under the instruction of Mrs.Harnitz, have had a wide variety of English work. During the first semester they studied mostly grammar in their workbooks and in their text. During the past few months their studies have turned to literature, short stories, and peo- try. The students made a short story booklet, including the lives of the authors, which better acquaints the students with the author and his works . A new additional attraction to all English classes are the frequent classes held in the library for reference or biographical information. HOMEMAKING DEPARTMENT This is the first year in which the first year Homemaking Class is divided into two parts. The first semester the class of thirty-five stu- dents are given instruction, under Mr. Simpson, in Home Mechanics. These classes are offered for the purpose of learning the basic prin- cipals of simple woodworking. Each girl made several things, such as doorstops, tie hangers, and book ends. . The second semester will be more closely related to sewing and cook- ing. The sophomores in the class of Homemaking two spend most of their time on a meal planning unit, also included in the years instructions is clothing work and home decoration for twelve weeks. Homemaking three, classes of Juniors and Seniors, work for the most part in clothing construction and the study of textiles. Improvements in the Homemaking Dept. are new vanitian blinds, two large drawer units, built in ironing board, steam iron, and two complete new unit kitchens. In the near future, possibly next year, Miss Gilmore hopes to have two more unit kitchens completed and a space furnished with relaxation furniture for discussion. These new establishments will add beauty, as well as interest, in our Homemaking Dept. Congratulations from LIGGETT'S 39 CHEMISTRY PHYSICS Compliments of CARL LANE, INSURANCE Best Wishes from PEOPLES' STORE in Thayer 40 SCIENCE CLASSES This year we have two biology classes of sixty students under the instruction of Mr. Crull. Some students ask why they should study bio- logy. Here are a few of the reasons why all students should study to determine how living things move, grow, feel, or escape enemies and disease. Ignorance of biology has ruined farms, has made houses ex- pensive, and has caused streams to overflow their banks or fill costly reserviors with silt. Rules of biology will help us stop these losses, turning waste lands into profitable woods, keeping water in the ground and making soil richer than it is today. Biology helps men to choose a place to live, grows fine crops for him, guides him in his choice of food and provides the principles of good health. As a vocational course it provides employrnent for an ever-increasing number of technical scien- tists. People are always trying to find out what things mean and science will make the world mean more to the students. For instance, in general science we learn the meanings of scientific words so the students can read stories about science from newspapers and magazines and under- stand them. General science can do much to show the student how to think. As we do experiments and exercises we have' an opportunity to do clean-cut careful thinking. Some experiments we do in class and some we do at home. These help us to understand and remember the important ideas of the lessons. In the Chemistry classes this year we have thirty-seven students . This is the smallest number in chemistry for several years, but those taking it are interested and are working hard to receive all the value possible from it. In chemistrywe learnhowthe common substances such as coal, air, and water have been made by the chemist into such things as dyes, drugs, textiles and plastic substances each of which may help, in some way to make our existance more enjoyable. We learn that our bodies are chemical factories, and also about life saving drugs. We study metals and alloys and how they help our countryto have the highest standard of living in the world. PHYSICS The major units of Mechanics, Heat, Sound, Light, and Electricity in Physics were covered during the term 1948-49. Emphasis was placed upon practical application of the fundamental laws, and concepts-appli- cation of these principals to the objects with which the student is fami- liar. For instance, hydraulic apparatus, mirrors, thermometers, elec- tric lights, motors, etc. The Physics class repaired the electric scoreboard for the school. They also plan a field trip to Sangamo-Electric to see the source of the theory of electricity in operation. Also a unit is being studied covering the Atomic Energy development to enable the student to understand bet- ter what is happening in the field today and what could possible in the future. An admired accomplishment of the Physics class was the light- ing and construction ofa large star for the school's decorations at Christ- mastime. Congratulations from FRANK SMITH CITIES SERVICE 41 AGRICULTURE - FUTURE FARMERS This year the agriculture classes initiated fourteen newmembers into the FFA with the total enrollment of twenty-nine members . The five offi- cers and Mr. Herbst went to Winchester on September Z7 to the Leader- ship Training School. There were two judging teams so there were grain and poultryjudgments at Carrollton. There was dairy and fat stock teams judging inMay at Jerseyville. They also hope to judge in the state contest at Urbana in June. Last .Tuly fourteen of the Ag.members showed live stock at the Green County Fair at Carrollton. They won over S500 in prize money. On November 14-17, they had seven boys go to the Twentieth Anniversary Convention of the FFA at Kansas City, Missouri. The boys were: Les- ter Royer, Edwin Walkington, Warren Carney, John Miller, Donald Jones, Howard Lomolino, Tom Reichert, and Mr. Herbst. The transportation was furnished by the Waverly school bus. Four of the members of the gilt committee and Mr. Herbst went to the Illinois Yorkshire Association sale at Springfield. There they bought a registered Yorkshire gilt. The gilt committee reached the decision to give the gilt to Donald Brawner. They did this after careful considera- tion of the facilities of the six boys who had stated that they would like to have the gilt. PHYSICAL EDUC AT ION The girls physical education classes are under the direction of Mrs. Gerlach. They are instructed in the fundamentals of playing basketball, volley ball, indoor and outdoor baseball, and exercises. During the win- ter, the girls play and exercise in the gyrng and in the spring and fall, they play baseball on the campus' baseball diamond. The classes in physical education training are well organized to balance the more stren- uous outdoor exercises with those of less physical-effort mostly held in the gymnasimn. RALPH BLALOCK CO., Inc. - RESTAURANT 8: JANITOR SUPPLIES 819-821 East Adams Street Springfield, Illinois 43 LIBRARY Sixty-two new books were accessioned into the library this year. Thirty-eight books and four magazines, including three years of Time, were rebound. On the subscription list there are three newspapers and twenty magazines . A new Standard Catalogue for High Schools Libraries , which lists up-to-date acceptable books, and an Abridged Readers Index , which indexes articles in over 30 magazines, of which we have 16, has been added to the library. A New double faced stacks are being built for the west end of the lib- rary to make more room for the classified books. The library staff of student librarians is doing great work at making the library what it should be and is. FOOTBALL BANQUET OF 1948 Tuesday evening, November lZ,brought the 1948 football season to a close. The banquet, served by the Virden School Club, was in honor of the football squad. The delicious turkey dinner was enjoyed by more than 300 fans. The tables were cleverly decorated with programs cor- responding to our school colors. The community singing was lead by Mr. Walter E. Best, director of the Music Department of Virden High School. Mrs. Riffey, the president of the Virden School Club, welcomed the members of the football squad and the other guests present. George Boyd, captain of the football squad, expressed the appreciation of the team. The toastmaster, Mr. Russel Orr, introduced the speaker of the even- ing, Mr. Sprunger. Mr. Sprunger is an assistant excutive secretary of the Illinois High School Association. He spoke on athletics, past and present. A group of VCHS students presented songs for the enjoyment of all. George Gazda was honored as the most valuable player of the year. Then the members of the squad were introduced by Coach McMullin. This then brought to a close the football season of '48. Compliments of ALEXANDER'S SHOES, Helter-Skelter and Scamperoo 45 T - SHOP AND MECHANICAL DRAWING J'ohn Simpsonhas five classes of ninety-four students taking shop and mechanical drawing. Some of the projects have been: broom holders, book-ends, tie racks, candlestick holders, electric lamps, end tables, coffee tables, what-nots, wall shelves, magazine racks, cedar chests, calf-feeders, cut-out lavnm figures ffawns, bulldogs, etc.Q, hot-pad hold- ers, knife holders, and an aluxninuxn boat. The Home Mechanics class is the only class of its kind around here. It is composed of Freshmen girls. The girls are taught the use of the more common carpenter tools, and the use all the machines in the shop. The s econd year Mechanical Drawing class studied architectural drawing, and the drawing of mechanical objects. Projects that the shop has done. out of class are: They cleaned up the gyrn for the tournament, refinished the bleachers in the gyrn, and helped get out shrubbery around the campus. MATHEMATICS One of the most important departments of VCHS is the Math depart- ment. The courses offered here this year are Algebra, Plane Geometry, Advanced Algebra, and Trigonometry. The instructor of the three Alge- bra classes is Mrs.Gerlach. The two Geometry classes and the Advan- ced Math class is under the instruction of Mr. Harrison. These courses are very useful and can be applied to almost every phase of everyday life. The advanced Math class has learned to use the slide rule which is very helpful in working complicated problems. Best Wishes from TINY 81 BILL, SOUTH SIDE MARKET Congratulations from JENNY SMITH'S DRESS SHOP 47 FUTURE HOMEMAKERS OF AMERICA The Virden Chapter of Future Homemakers of America began the school year with the following officers: President - Betty Dalby lst Vice President - Virginia Carney Znd Vice President - .Toy Nettles Secretary - Inex Rees Treasure - Jo Ellen McMu.llin Parliamentarian - Frances Grimmett Social Chairman - Mary Ellen Lomelino Public relations chairman - Frances Copelin Scrapbook chairman - Phyllis Hamilton, Helen Johnston Recreation chairman - .Tulia Sanders Mrs. Dave Hamilton was elected our chapter Mother and Miss Gil- more is our advisor. There are thirty-five active members. Several of them have earned awards of chapter and junior homemakers. The new officers attended a House of Delegates meeting October 5 in Springfield, Illinois at the Leland Hotel. Betty Dalby was sent as chap- ter president, Virginia Carney as anominee for a section office and Inez Rees as our voting delegate. The meeting was held on a Saturday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. At this meeting Virginia Carney was chosen as Parlia- mentarian of Section 6. For several meetings we had recreation leaders from out of town come in and lead recreation. Each meeting we shared our recreation and refreshments with the Future Farmers of America. In February we were co-sponsors with Bobbie Kaye's orchestra of the annual Sweetheart Dance. Helen Dodd was chosen Sweetheart of the dance and was crowned during the intermission. Decorations were in Valen- tine theme and were very decorative. On March 5 the annual Section 6 Rally was held at Girard. About Z0 members from Virden attended. Our chapter, with Julia Sanders as announcer, was in charge of the style show. Virginia Carney led a dis- cussion group. We plan to send a delegate to camp again this year. RALPH BLALOCK CC., Inc. - RESTAURANT 8: .TANITOR SUPPLIES 819-821 East Adams Street Springfield, Illingis 49 HONOR SOCIETY Membership in the National Honor Society is the highest honor given to any student in VCHS. These members are chosen from the upper third of their class by the faculty, present members of the Society, and the other high-ranking students. They are chosen on the basis of Char- acter, Leadership, and Service. The advisor is Miss Gilmore. Patsy Hinkle and George Gazda were chosen in their Junior year. The Seniors that were elected are: Betty Ward, Edward Perks, Carol Riffey, Alan Wyckoff, and Harriet Seymour. The following were elected as officers: George Gazda, President: Carol Riffey, Vice-President, Patsy Hinkle, Secretary-T reasurer. Each member received a member- hipcertificate and a gold pin bearing the emblem of the society. A dinner was held after each induction ceremony. As has been the custom inthe past years, the members decorated the windows, rooms, and halls at Christmastime. So that we may have money for various things the Honor Society needs, we sponsored a Magic Show at the School Carnival and also sold ice cream at basketball games. In April, we sponsored a Vocational Guidance Meeting for our Seniors and members of the Junior Class who were interested. There were out- side speakers and entertainment. The purpose of this meeting was to help students decide on vocations after they finish high school. STUDENT COUNCIL The Student Council was rather late in getting organi'zed this year, but we have accomplished quite a lot. It consists of class officers and presidents of all organizations. George Gazda is the president, George Boyd, Vice-Pres.g Betty Ward, Sec.g Barbara Boyd, Treas.g Mr. Har- rison, Advisor. We have sponsored a school party and a basketball game to collect money for the March of Dimes. The annual donkey basketball game and a basketball tournament were also sponsored by the Student Council. We observed Courtesy Week, Clean-Up Week, and introduced some- thing new, Student Day, in which the Student Council took over the faculty's jobs. To the future Student Council we extend our best wishes, and the best of luck. If It's Both Practical and Pretty - Of Course It's Electric! CENTRAL ILLINOIS PUBLIC SERVICE COMPANY 51 SPEECH CONTEST On Monday morning, February 21, the speech contestants gave an assembly. Their instructor, Miss Reed announced the program and Charles Lake then gave his Extemporaneous Speech. Then came Carl Lane who gave the Oratorical Declamation, Wake Up America by Loyd Ogilvi. Russell Davidson-Serious Reading, The Man Who Had No Eyes by Mac Kinley Kantor. Pat Madden - Huxnorus Reading, Education of Hyman Kaplin by Leonard Q. Ross. Evelyn Seifert - Verse Reading, Three Pieces on Night Over the City by Helen Heiles. Gene Fahs- Original Oration on What Democracy Means to Me . The big event came Saturday, February 26, at the District Speech Con- test given here. The following schools participated: Auburn Girard New Berlin Morrisonville Farmerville Northwestern Raymond Hillsboro Virden Stauton Benld Dive rnon In their division as Class A schools they placed as follows: Charles - lst Russell - Znd Carl - 3rd Pat - Znd Gene - Znd Evelyn - Znd On Saturday, March 12, Charles went to the Sectional at Lincoln and placed 7th, in Class A'. We are very proud to have so many students participating and hope they will continue to do so. We have no special speech department or class, but Miss Reed coached our contestants. MAJORETTES The Majorettes this year are Mary Lou Dunlap, Pat Moffitt, .To Ellen McMullen, and .To Walker. This is the second year for all of them. None of the girls will graduate this year and we shop to see them out again next year. They took part in marching with the band during the football season, and they all took turns in leading the band. Compliments ofthe FARMERS 8: MERCHANTS BANK 53 JUNIOR CLASS PLAY This fall the Junior Class, under the instruction and helpful guidance of Mrs. Harnitz, presented the fast moving comedy, Professor How Could You! . It is the story of Professor Keats fGene Fahsl, a reserved man who had no interest in any woman. At least that's what he thought until that pert, snazzy, quick-tempered Vicky Randolf U0 Ann Hogan, stepped out of one of his classes and into his private life. The play mqves on to introduce such characters as Grandpa Perry fFreddie Reiche 1'tJ, an alert, chipper, little man of sixty, who constantly works cross-word puzzles and can also puzzle out quite a few affairs in Keats' life. Then there's Grandma Perry flla Parkerj, a sweet, little, white -haired woman, rather like a fussy little hen. Also John Appleby fBuzzy Lanej, a clean-cut, likable, young fellow of twenty-five, plays an active part. He has a breezy manner and goes in for quite a bit of back-slapping and good-natured boisterousness. He is the type who is quite confident that he is impervious to the fair sex but is guilty of terribly underestimating the feminine appeal of Pricilla Morley U0 Ann Walkerj, a sweet, young thing of ninetten with a child- ish, appealing manner. Then there is Tootsie Bean fPat McCarthyj, a twenty-eight year old plump and giggly girl. Her greatest fear is that she may be an old maid which very well might have been the case, if her twenty-two year old, pugnacious brother fMarvin Hearinj, hadn't stepped into assist her. He helped her to snare the family butler, Boggins fLee Sharpj, who was innocentlystanding by while sheltried her hand at winning the professor. The competition also included Valerie fConnie Bortmessj, the slinky languid and pretty personality that appears in every case of this type- the type girl who gushes over men with a southern accent and is a catch for one of any men around. Putting all these contrasting personalities together in one private home and you'll have as interesting, hurnorous and entertaining situa- tion as we presented in our Junior Class Play. CHEERLEADERS The cheerleaders this year are Rhea Dawn Stewart, Evelyn Brewer, and Pat Smith. This is Rhea Dawn's second year and Evelyn and Pat's first. They attended every game and did a swell job in supporting the team. They have taught us some new yells during the two seasons. Since none of them will graduate this year, let's hope they will be back on the job next year. Best Wishes from RYLAND COSTLEY FOOD MARKET 55 GLEE CLUBS This year the school has three glee clubs. One group of freshman girls who are taking more training before entering the large group and also a small group of boys who join the girls in a mixed chorus at times during the year. The beginning of the year found the girls group presenting a half hour program for the Macoupin County Institute. The 35 members were well received by the teachers. Following the program the glee clubs pre- sented a Christmas Cantata to a very nice audience. To start out the new year, the boys and girls began practicing solos and formed differ- ent ensembles to be entered intthe district contest and the big group pre- pared for a spring concert. The soloists and ensembles sang at various clubs in the community and presented a recital. Following the contests the glee club participated in the Macoupin County Music Festival and then prepared.music for the prom and different banquets which close out the school year. The glee club activities were completed when the girls presented a number during the baccalaureate services. We have had a very successful year under the direction of Mr. Best and will look for- ward to more enjoyment with music next year. MUSIC CONTEST On March 26, twenty-eight music students entered the district music contest at Jacksonville. After all results were turned in Mr. Best and his students were well pleased. Four first division earned the right to go on to the state contest. The first winners were: Harriett Seymour, fluteg Mary Worth, alto clarinetg Carl Casper, tuba, a male quartet, com- posed of Charles Gooden, Austin Hulcher, Fred Reicherts, and Dwain Hamilton accompanied by Barbara Boyd. Those winning division II medals were Robert Hartman, baritoneg girl's quartet, composed of Betty Ward, Carol Riffey, Mary Ellen Lome- lino, and Mary Lou Gibersong. girl's sextet, composed of Pat Moffitt, Cynithia Peterson, Rita Jackson, Donna McKeirnan, Mary Ann Beasley and Phyllis Hamilton. , Those who placed division three were Alan Wyckoff, baritoneg Connie Bortness, girl's mediurn voice: Mary Worth, pianog Barbara Boyd, pianog saxophone quartet, composed of Robert Smith, Keith Crump, Delores Bickel and Robert Murphy: clarinet quartet, composed of Pat McCarthy, Mary Ellen Lomelino, Richard Stengel, and Delores Clause. We gave a good accounting of ourselves as Z1 of the Z8 entered the contest for the first time and 18 of the 28'were awarded a first or second place medal. We were sorryGene Fahs, Joan Hogan and Charles Thomas could not compete because of illness. Congratulations to the Seniors from .TOSTEN'S 57 HOMEC OMING You can always tell when homecoming is just around the corner be- cause everyone is talking about who the queen will be, gathering up ideas for a float, and then trying to get out of class to work on it. Then, too, you can hear the girls discussing their new clothes, their date for the dance, etc. On October 22, an assembly was held in the gyrn to start the home- coming celebrationj The different classes had a stunt and the Juniors won the trophy for the best stunt in the group. It was a pantomine giv- ing a sort of silent movie preview of the coming game with Girard. The parade followed the assembly. The band played and each class had a float. The Seniors won the prize for the best float. Their theme was Open Season On Redbirds. The Junior float was Irish, in theme, wishing the Bulldogs luck. The Sophomores were Moon Struck and the Freshmen were Swing On A Star. The other floats in the parade were Wrightsman's truck, Fire Engine, Nehi Truck, FFA float, and decorated bicycles, and students dressed as Hoboes. After the parade in Virden the band loaded up on the truck and went to Thayer. The evening included a game with Girard, which we lost by a score of 12.-7, and then all went to the Homecoming Dance in the gyrn with music by Paul Johnson. At 10:30 Phyllis Hamilton, escorted by Jack Nerone, was c rowned queen of Homecoming by the football captain, George Boyd. Her attendants were Evelyn Seifert, escorted by George Boyd, Marilyn Walkington, e s c 0 rted by Bill Logan, and Helen Dodd, escorted by Gene Fahs. BAND The VCHS Band is under the direction of Mr. Walter Best. They have fourty-four members, ten of which are grade school pupils. This is the first year that the grade school has been in our band. The band has made many appearances in which they played at basketball and football games. At football games they we re a marching band and had many interesting formations as well as forming letters. During the two seasons they helped pep the students and players by playing at the pep assemblies. They also led the Homecoming Parade. Besides the band playingaat the contest, they had several members playing solos and others who formed ensembles. They had a pre-con- test concert so the participating members could practice before an aud- ience. They also participated in the annual festival at Gillespie. To end the year they played for Graduation. Compliments Hof BUNN CAPITOL GROCERY CO. 59 OFFICE NEWS There has been quite a change in the office this year. The business of a unit district increased the office traffic to a point of over-flowing. Mr. McMullin is assurning the high school Principals' office duties while Mr. Clinton extends his duties to that of Superintendent of the High School and the cityelementary schools. Capable secretaries, Laraine and Mrs. Allen have proved their worth. The office at the high school which has the only fire resistant record storage vault in the district, is logically being called the schools central office. There the business of the school is centered. We regard the office as a place where students and teachers alike can go with their problems or their plans and get a hearing. ' The records accu.milated by each student in school are stored in the office. The school board records of every sort are stored there. Group planning of programs and future progress is centered there. There is a general feeling in our office that they now have the advice and council of expert school inspectors and that the effieiency of the school will grow and grow and grow. What men want is not talent: it is purposeg in other words, not the power to achieve, but the will to labor.- Bulwer We in the office want the best possible education suited to the needs of every student. LUNCH-ROOM The amount of students this year eating lunch at school has increased almost three times more than last year. This proves the students enjoy their noonday lunches. The kitchen is becoming more readily estab- lished with the use of two new pressure cookers,new pans and other new kitchen appliances which amounted to two-hundred dollars. One hundred and fifty dollars worth of silver was purchased, also flourescent lights and all new floorccoverings. Everyone here at VCHS is very proud of their modern lunch room and are helping keep it clean and orderly. Congratulations from EVANS TRUCK SERVICE of Thayer Compliments of DR. F. E. ANSPAUGH 61 SCIENCE CLUB The Science Club has adopted the name, Test Tube Tinkers. They have fifteen active members. Their officers are: Pres., Helen Dodd: Vice-Pres., Betty Moffittg Sec. and Treas., Mary Ellen Lomelino, and Reporter, Gene Fahs. At their meetings they usually have the regular meeting, followed by reports, demonstrations, and a movie. At the car- nival they raised money by selling candy, having movies, and a pound- ing block. They also gave money to the Polio Drive. Before school is out they plan to take a field trip to some place of interest. VIRDENITE The Virdenite, the school newspaper, is published once every two weeks by the students. The staff members are: Mary Lou Giberson, editor, Evelyn Brewer, assistant editor, Betty Ward, Darlene Bearden, and Carol Riffey, production staff, Marilyn Osborne, Jackie Gass, Marie Sanders, Pat Madden, Frances Copelin, and Howard Lomelino, repor- tersg Bob Hartman, art editor, Jack Page, sports editor, Pat Hinkle, feature editor. Each issue is sent to the members of the school board. We also ex- change papers with other high schools. Our advisor is Mrs. Lair. CAMERA CLUB The Camera Club is under the supervision of John Simpson. Their officers are: Bob Smith, President, George Gazda, Vice-President, Betty Ward, Sec.-Treas. During the year they have taken pictures of student, activities, and different events around the campus. In order to raise money to purchase necessary equipment, we raffled a flashbulb camera at the school carnival. It consists of ten members, but we hope more will turn out next year. Compliments of J. L. HEFFRON, JEWELER Best Wishes from SPRAGUEHS DRUG STORE 63 'fi l W xx SQA I ri: we amz- ,' Q Athletics Football VIRDEN VS HILLSBORO 0-33 Opening the season against a strong Hillsboro team, Virden lost a hard fought battle. Coach McMul1in opened his season with a group of boys who had played very little football. There were only 6 letter-men returning from last year's squad, and these had seen but limited action. Although Virden wasn't in the game as far as the score was concerned, Hillsboro went home with their bumps and bruises. It was a battle all the way with Hillsboro taking the upper hand by a score of 33-0. VIRDEN VS BENLD 0-19 Virden, improved, but still showing their lack of experience, went down to defeat before a big, rough, veteran Benld eleven at Benld Sat- urday night, September 18. ln a game involving many penalties for un- necessary roughness and off-side, Virden again lostahard fought battle. Early in the game, Capt. Boyd was taken from the game with a leg in- jury: there were several other minor injuries received by several mem- bers of the squad and their loss was apparent throughout. Fine defensive work by G. Gazda and I. Nerone kept Virden in the gameg Virden's line also showed much improvement. VIRDEN VS RUSHVILLE 0-25 Virden travelled 80 miles to Rushville to take their third straight defeat of the year. Although Virden was unable to score, they outplayed Rushville throughout the whole game. The score of this game did not show justice to the Bulldogs, because they actually outpointed Rushville in everything but the score. Virden played without several regulars in the lineup. Boyd, Scofield, and Gwinn were on the injured list, and with the help of these fellows in the lineup, the score might have been differ- ent. Hard running by Pickard, Gazda, and Hamilton, and fine and much improved line play, enabled Virden to gain more gound and first downs than Rushville. VIRDEN VS ST. JAMES Z5-0 Virden opened their conference with a Z5-0 decision over St. James Trade School from Springfield. Although rated as underdogs, Virden proved their worth, and they also caused other M.S.M. contenders to sit up and take notice. Virden opened up their scoring when Hamilton gal- loped 15 yards around right end to score. Hamilton then proceeded to plunge three more yards to score the second tally, with Gwinn adding the extra point. ln the third frome Pickard smashed off tackle to score on a five yard canter. In the final frame G. Gazda went ten yards on a reverse to score the final tally. Hard smashing tackles and excellent defensive play by G. Wargo added much strength to Virden's rapidly improving line. Good Luck from PAUL COOK, GROCERIES Compliments of DR. A. E. SEYMOUR 66 Football VIRDEN VS CARLINVILLE 0-14 The Cavaliers travelled to Virden to avenge the 6-0 defeat handed to them last year by the high flying Bulldogs. Although Virden failed to score, they had several scoring drives and were on the one yard line of Carlinville before being stopped. It was a nip and tuck battle all the way with the Cavaliers finally gaining the edge. VIRDEN VS KINCAID 7-0 Travelling to Kincaid on the 16 of Oct., the Bulldogs managed to lug the ball through mud and rain for a 7-0 victory. In what was the mud- diest game of the season, Virden downed a tough Kincaid eleven after stopping Kincaid's drive on Virden's one yard line. The credit for this fete belongs to the scrappy play of Wargo, Brennan, and Talkington, who enabled the Bulldogs to halt the long drive made by Kincaid. Virden's score carne in the second period when G. Gazda crashed off tackle for twelve yards and a touchdown. Gazda then proceeded to plunge the point. Wargo and Page showed some fine defensive play in halting many of Kin- caid's drives. Brennan received a knee injury early in the game and was hampered throughout the game. VIRDEN VS WAVERLY 13-0 The Waverly Scotties travelled to Virden on the night of Oct. 29, and for the first half they managed to keep the score 0-0. Waverly had the edge on the Bulldogs the first half, but things were different the 2nd half. On the first play of the second half, Scofield ran from his won 15 to the Waverly 20. This drive was climaxed when Pickard scored on the fol- lowing play and then proceeded to add the extra point. Striking with fury, Virden scored again when G. Gazda recovered Pickar's fumble on the Waverly five yard line and rushed the ball over for the second score. The try for the extra point failed and the final score was 13-0 with the Bulldogs on top. VIRDEN VS GIRARD 7-12 In a hard fought battle, Girard eked out a victory over the Bulldogs by a slim 5 point margin. Virden opened the game withaa long drive to Girard's three yard line, but because of fumbles Girard was able to stop the Bulldogs before they could score. Girard's score came inthe second period when Allen travelled 15 yards around left end for a touchdown. Compliments of DR. HANKS Best Wishes from WM. F. HAINES, INS. AGENCY, Virginia Martin 67 Football At half time the score was 6-0, Girard failing to add the extra point. Girard opened the third quarter when Whittler crashed off tackle to make it 12.-O. Inspired by several long runs and completed passes, the Bull- dogs came along to make the score read 12-7. The scoring was made by Pickard when he raced eight yards around right end to score standing up. Although Virden threatened several times in the remaining minutes of the game, they were unable to score and thus dropped a heart breaker to their strongest rivals. Some fine defensive play and hard tackling was shown by A. Gazda who entered the game for the injured Brennan. VIRDEN VS AUBURN 19-0 The Bulldogs travelled to Auburn to take a 19-0 victory from the Auburn Trojans. Auburn was an improved team according to early sea- son statistics,and offered the Bulldogs some real competition. Virden's scoring came in the first period when Capt. Boyd crashed off right tackle to score. The second tally came in the second period when a pass from Boyd to Wieland in the end zone was goody the try for the extra point was good and the half-tirne read Virden 13 Auburn 0. ln the third frame, Virden scored again in the third period when fleet-footed Pickard raced 50 yards for a touchdown. This was the longest run of the game. VIRDEN VS NOKOMIS 7-13 In what was the deciding game of the year, Virden was unable to share in any M.S.M. honors when they dropped a close 13-7 battle to Nokomis. In winning this game Nokomis was able to walk offwith the M.S.M. Cham- pionship-trailed by Girard and Virden in that order. Virden took over a Nokomis fumble in the first period and drove more than 70 yards to Score. Pickard scored around his own right end and then proceeded to plunge for the extra point. In the second half, Logsdon scored for the visitors and the try for the extra point was missed. Later in that period a pass from Reed to Cassidywas good for another Nokomis tally. Hiviz- bos' conversion was good. In the final frame, Virden threatened three times and was on the one foot line when time ran out. This was a hard game for the Bulldogs to loose. If Virden had beaten Nokomis, there would have been a three tie between Virden, Girard, and Nokomis. This was the Bulldogs last game of the season, and the last game for such Seniors as: Boyd, G. Gazda, J. Brennan, Wargo, Hamilton, Large, Sco- field, Talkington, and Walkington. Compliments of BERRY FUNERAL HOME 68 Ui 2 I Bfgnnan naffifcfi 5 Eld0h Dwdin R001 Murprny Donald UWCVIBS Pxcfiard Cornplxnments of the VIRDEN IMPLEMENT CO. Farrn Implements and Machinefry 69 Paqe Basketball VIRDEN 39 KINCAID 26 Virden opened their basketball season with a bang defeating Kincaid 39 to 26. Both teams were inexperienced and it could be seen through- out the game. Virden led all the way. Gazda was high point man of the evening with 153 Bartodo was high for Kincaid with 11. VIRDEN 33 DIVERNON 26 It was Virden and Divernon inanip and tuck battle on the Virden hard- wood. Virden, showing improvement, downed a fast Divernon five 33 to 26. The Dragons from Divernon came to Virden feeling confident of vic- tory, but when they left the Bulldogs had changed their minds for them. Divernon missed l9of 25 free throws: this proved to be the deciding fac- tor of the game because Virden made 7 while missing 7. Lane of Virden was high with 10 points and B. Smith of Divernon had 8. VIRDEN 45 AUBURN 49 Virden received their first defeat in three starts when Auburn came down to hand them a 49 to 45 heart breaker. Auburn was hot to the hoop all evening, making some unbelievable shots. Lane of Virden was high gunner of the evening with 14, while Leskouisek of Auburn was second with 13. VIRDEN 40 JACKSONVILLE 49 On Dec. 7, Jacksonville travelled to Virdento hand the Bulldogs their second defeat by the score of 40 to 49. Jacksonville showed very little class, but because of some fine individual plays they managed to carry off the tilt. Virden outscored Jacksonville 12 to ll the last quarter, Bussey of Jacksonville was high point man with 14, with Lane of Virden and Champrnan of Jacksonville collecting 10 points apiece. VIRDEN 33 GIRARD 37 Virden played their first game away from home against a cautious Girard five. The game was a thriller all the wayg the first quarter end- ing in a 13 to 14 deadlockg the second quarter showed Girard pulling ahead 24 to 201 the third quarter, Virden matched Girard with 5 points apieceg the fourth quarter showed Virden pouring in 22 to Girard's 13. The game was close up to the very gun, but Girard was on top by 4 points at the gun. Congratulations from DR. M. C. BABB Best Wishes from LOUIS GALLETTO of Thayer 70 Basketball VIRDEN 29 TRI-CITY 44 Tri-City travelled to Virden on the 17th of Dec'. to hand the Bulldogs a 29 to 44 shellacking. Virden couldn't get going, but Tri-City control- led the ball and also the score. Benjachler of Tri-City was high with 14 points, and Nerone was high for Virden with 9. Tri-City was never behind and the quarter scores showed them with a comfortable lead. In the last quarter Virden showed a spark and scored 17 to 18 for Tri-City. VIRDEN 72 BUNKER HILL 35 Virden opposed Bunker Hill in the Macoupin County Tournament held at Gillespie. The Bulldogs let loose their scoring power racking up 72 points. Coach McMul1in played 15 men in this game but everyone seemed to be hitting with the ball, and the score just kept rising. Lane and Ham- ilton of Virden were high with 14 apieceg Noble of Bunker Hill had ll to pace his team. VIRDEN 57 FEITSHANS 66 Feitshands High School of Springfield came to Virden to hand the Bull dogs a 66 to 57 trouncing. The Bulldogs were in the game all the way but the Flyers were always one jump ahead. The first frame ended with Virden trailing Feitshans 20 to 29. Feitshans had the height on the Bull- dogs and therefore were able to control the rebounds. Pete Urbas led the individual scoring for the evening with 19 and Winston had 18 for Feitshans: Royer was high for Virden with 14 while Scofield and Lane and 13 and 12 respectively. VIRDEN 46 NORTHWESTERN 59 Virden travelled to Scottsville to oppose a strong Northwestern five. The Northwestern team consisted of boys from Hettic , Modesto, Palmyra, and Scottsville, the communities joined together to form the Northwes- tern High School. Northwestern showed some power in their center, Cox, who was high scorer of the game with 26 points. Allen of Northwestern and Hamilton of Virden each had 14. VIRDEN 47 BALL TOWNSHIP 51 Virden travelled to Glenarm on Feb. 4 and faced the Ball Township five. lt seemed to be an easy victory for the Bulldogs, as the halftime score was Virden 34, Ball Township 17. The last half was altogether a different story with Ball outscoring Virden 35 to 13, and going ahead to win 51 to 47. In the second half Virden committed several fouls which were the deciding factor in the final score. Reese was high gunner of the evening with 27.while Lane and Royer of Virden had 12 each. Congratulations from GALLI SHOE STORE Compliments of VIRDEN FROZEN FOODS 71 Basketball VIRDEN 41 MORRISONVILLE 40 The Bulldogs avenged an earlier defeat handed to them by Morrison- ville by defeating them in another thriller. The game was very rough with 61 personal fouls called in the game. In the closing minutes of the game Gazda tied the score with a basket from the free throw line and then Royer tossed in another basketjust to be matched by Morrisonville. Royer then made a free throw to put the game on ice in the closing second of the game. At the end of the game Morrisonville had only 4 men on the floor, the rest being out because of personal fouls. Royer of Virden and Frobish of Morrisonville each had 11 points to pace their team. VIRDEN 40 WAVERLY 52 Waverly travelled to Virden to hand the Bulldogs another defeat, but it was not a runaway like the former game. The halftime score was Waverly 31 and Virden 23. Virden outscored Waverly in the second half 22 to 19, but were unable to overcome the earl-ier lead piled up by the Scotties. Peters, a fine ball player from Waverly again hit 20 or more points as he racked up 21 to lead the individual scoring. Scofield, Lane, and Lechner of Virden each had 10 points to pace their team. VIRDEN 43 PAWNEE 58 Virden journeyed to Pawnee to take their second defeat of the year from the Indians. The half time score was 28 to 22 in favor of Pawneeg in the third frame the Indians were still pulling away, but in the final frame the Bulldogs came back fighting to outscore the Indians 18 to 14. The final score was Virden 43 Pawnee 58. Curtis of Pawnee was high scorer of the game with 16, while Sisk of Pawnee followed with 14, and Lane and Lechner of Virden with 12 and 11 respectively. VIRDEN 52 AUBURN 42 The Bulldogs journeyed to Auburn to avenge their earlier defeat by handing the Trojans a 52 to 42 trouncing. Virden showed some fine scor- ing power and ball handling in their last conference game of the season. MacMurdo of Auburn was high gunner of the evening while Scofield and Lechner of Virden had 13 and 11 respectively. The Bulldogs won 5 con- ference games and lost 6 this year. ' VIRDEN 43 LANPHIER 51 Lanphier came to Virden Feb. 25, expecting an easy victory. The Bulldogs had other plans for them, and fought stubbornly dropping a 51 to 43 decision. Virden showed some fine team play, while Erickson of Lanphier showed his great scoring power. Erickson was high point man for the evening with 29 points while Lane and Lechner kept Virden in the game with 16 and 12 points respectively. The game was very close until the closing minutes of the fourth qua rte r. This was Virden's last scheduled game of the season. ' Complimentsgof EMMERSON'S GAS STATION in Thayer Best Wishes from BILL TAIT'S BEAUTY SHOP in Thayer 72 REGIONAL TOURNAMENT VIRDEN GYMNASIUM VIRDEN 35 SPRINGFIELD HIGH SCHOOL 43 Virden opened the Regional Tournament at Virden opposing the Reg- tional Favorite, Springfield High School. The Senators from Springfield, and the Bulldogs from Virden put on a fine performance before a jam- packed gym, a capacity crowd. Springfield being rated as Regional fav- orite, expected a push-over when they opposed Virden. In what was probably the best performance of the year by the Virden five, Springfield managed to capture a thrilling 43-35 win from the valiant Bulldogs . Al- though Virden lost, they gained a moral victory by their fine showing against the highly rated Springfield. Fitchner ofSpringfield was high point man of the game with 195 Lane of Virden had 10. Springfield's narrow victory over Virden caused scribes to wonder at the final outcome of the Regional Tournament. This was the last game for the Virden team,hav- ing won 7 and lost 17 for the' season. This was also the last game for such Seniors as Lechner, Gwinn, Gazda, Boyd, Scofield, Hamilton and Royer. NORTHWESTERN 46 AUBURN 36 In the second game of the Tournament Northwestern opposed Auburn. Northwestern was given the edge over Auburn and ran true to form by downing the Trojans 46 to 36. Although Auburn was the underdog, they always stayed within striking distance of the Wildcats. Chiti of Auburn and Allen of Northwestern were high scorers with 12 apiece. Norwes- tern's victory over Auburn gave them the opportunity to oppose Spring- field in the semi-finals. CATHEDRAL 49 RAYMOND 38 Cathedra1's Boy's High School of Springfield came into the Regional as a dark horse. Although Raymond didn't look so good in the later part of the season they gave Cathedral a hard battle, but they just couldn't quite match the long shots of Cathedral's Sponsler and the fine faking of Kneefner. The final score was Cathedral 49 Raynuond 38. Sponsler of Cathedral was high scorer of the game with 14, while Keefner of Cath- edral was second with 11. Owens and Reineke of Raymond had 9 each to pace their team. GIRARD 41 BALL TOWNSHIP 38 Girard defeated Ball Twp. in a close game in the Fourth game of the Regional Tournament. Girard came through the Farmersville District, which was very tough, and they now seemed a threat to carry off the Best Wishes from BOWMAN'S BLACKSMITH SHOP 73 REGIONAL TOURNAMENT VIRDEN GYMNASIUM Regional. Ball Twp. showed some improvement in their play, but the Redbirds from Girard were always one jump ahead of them. Reece of Ball Twp. was high scorer of the game with 20, while Fuchs, and Smith of Girard each had 12, and Steinhour of Ball had 12. SPRINGFIELD 58 NORTHWESTERN 41 The Senators from Springfield came through in the semi-finals to dovnma stubborn Northwestern five 58-41. Springfield played abad game, while Northwestern was unable to get started. Springfield outscored Northwestern in all but the third quarter. Cox of Northwestern displayed some fine offensive and defensive playing to lead the individual scoring with 19. Fitchner of Springfield had 15 and Larson of Springfield had 13. By this win Springfield was entitled to play the finals opposing the win- ner of the Girard-Cathedral game. GIRARD 49 CATHEDRAL 46 Girard proved a definite threat to Springfield when they defeated Cathedral in the semi-final game. Cathedrel took an early lead of 21 to 15 at the first quarter, but Girard came back in the second frame to out- score Cathedral 19 to 4 and lead 'at halftime by the score of 34 to 25. Girard again poured it on in the third frame outscoring Cathedral 14 to 4. In the last quarter Cathedral began hitting the hoop, and threw a de- finite scare into the Redbirds by racking up 27 points -to Girard's 7. Gi- rard managed to hold the ball in the closing seconds of the game to win by 3 points. Sponsler of Cathedral was high scorer of the game with 16, while Whittler, Smith, and Prose, ofGirard had ll, 13, and 12 respective- ly. In defeating Cathedral,Girard gained the right to oppose Springfield in the finals of the Tournament. SPRINGFIELD 50 GIRARD 36 fFinalsJ Sprinfield defeated Girard in the final game of the 'Regional Tour- nament by the score of 50 to 36. Springfield came out strong in the first quarter, racking up 21 points to Girard's 145 this first quarter was the deciding point of the game because Girard duplicated Springfield's scor- ing in the remaining 3 quarters of the game. Thunman, Springfield's big center was high scorer of the evening with 15, while Prose of Girard and Blakeman of Springfield collected 10 each. In carrying off the Regional, Springfield ran true to form as they were slated to do. Compliments of JONES' RADIO SHOP Best Wishes from TURNER'S GROCERY 74 Jac bkwvne ess: Cer! LGU? Compliments of the FARMERS Sr MERCHANTS BANK 76 Track Approximately 60 boys reported to Coach Harrison for track equip- ment. Although most of last year's team graduated, Coach Harrison expects a good showing from the boys that are out this year. Coach Harrison took over the track team as Coach McMullin is verybusy run- ning the high school as its principal. Mr. Harrison was quite a star in distance running in his college years, and through the experience he gained as a track star himself, everyone is expecting Mr. Harrison to coach the track team with a knowledge and effeciency that is needed in producing a good team. Coach Harrison is relying on the following men to carry the burden for VCHS. From last year's MSM Track Champs the only returning lettermen are: Pud Boyd, who is expected to carry the load in the dis- tance runs. He is a three year letterman. Except for an illness in his second year, Pud would most likely be a four year letterman in track, Pud will be seen in the mile this year. .Tack Nerone will be seen in the pole vault, Jack also earned a letter last year. A. Gazda and D. Scofield will be expected to help .Tack along in the pole vault. x In the dashes Virden will be depending on three of last year's letter- men: Bus Lane, Laurence Weiland, and Charlie Picard. In the weights Virden has no returning lettermen from last year and will be depending onthe efforts of .T.Gwinn, J.Page, D,Large, and Mar- vin Hearin. With some of these boys coming through, Virden will have something to show in the weights. ln the quarter mile, Alex Fairful, a letterman from last year's squad, will be expected to carry the load. Miles is expected to give a fine ac- counting of himself in the quarter or half mile. In the half mile Virden is without a returning lette rman, but Bob Evans , a Freshman, is expected to show some style in this run. The Bulldogs are without a returning letterman in the hurdles, but G. Gazda, D. Hamilton, L. Miles, F. Reichert, and B. Logan are expec- ted to come through with flying colors. Without a letterman from last year's high-jump, Hamilton, Royer, A. Gazda, Logan, and Fairful are likely contestants for this event. In the broad jurnp C.Picard is the only returning letterman, but he is expected to get some competition'from L. Weiland, G. Gazda, and J'. Ne rone . Compliments of MILLERS' SUPPLY STORE 77