MUS Travels to Europe

Alumni Soar to New Heights

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Memphis University School 6191 Park Avenue Memphis, TN 38119 (901) 260-1300 musowls.org

September 2, 2015· Volume LX· Number 2

TEDx Memphis Speaks Out

Rudolph Inducted into Hall of Fame

MUS Senior Patton Orr established a Memphis branch of the organization TED and has begun his trek to create a future for the event in the city.

Forest Colerick News Editor

Over the summer, former MUS football coach, Jake Rudolph, was inducted into the Tennessee Sports Hall of Fame.

Aneesh Ram News Editor

Almost one thousand people attended the sold-out TEDx Conference held on August 29 in the Michael D. Rose Theatre at the University of Memphis, the first event of its kind in the city. TED is an acronym for Technology, Entertainment, and Design, a series of global conferences whose mission is to promote a wide variety of topics covering science, technology, culture, and academia, or “Ideas Worth Spreading,” as the non-profit organization’s slogan states. The successful establishment of TED in Memphis is largely attributed to Patton Orr, senior and TED Club founder. Orr first became interested in TED in 2013 through his sister’s work at TEDxUNC (University of North Carolina). Shortly after, he founded the TED Club at MUS, where he would screen the short, 18-minute or less video presentations from previous conferences every week in Dr. Steve Gadbois’ room. He founded a similar club at the Benjamin L. Hooks Library for other teens in the community. “As it turns out, Memphis was the largest market in the U.S. not to have a local TEDx event,” Orr said. “I soon realized that a small event would not do Memphis justice, so I began the first steps to what later became TEDx Memphis.” Orr recruited family church friend Luke Jenson ’07 to help obtain the license and approval for the conference. Together they travelled to TED Active in Whistler, British Columbia, for a week in March, 2014.

MUS Publications

Over the following summer, the two submitted their application to the organization for a TEDx Memphis, eventually receiving approval in September 2014. Orr and Jenson, along with Clay Smythe ’85, MUS Lower School Principal, and Anna Mullins, Director of Marketing and Communications for the New Memphis Institute, worked hard to establish and operate this event. I soon realized that a small event would not do Memphis justice, so I began the first steps to what later became TEDx Memphis.

our speakers were Memphis residents, and TEDx Memphis gave these inspirational people a vehicle to share their ideas with the community in the TED format.” Notable speakers included Kimbal Musk, the brother of Tesla founder Elon Musk; Jason Wexler, President of Business Operations for the Memphis Grizzlies; Rob Carter, Chief Information Officer of FedEx; Gabriel Fotsing, the founder and Chief Executive Officer of The College Initiative; Dr. Scott Morris, founder and CEO of Church Health Center; Marco Pavé, a hip hop artist; and Melissa Anderson

Sweazy, an award winning screenwriter and film director. Much of the credit in producing such a large-scale conference and bringing the TEDx organization and brand to Memphis goes to Orr and his hard-working team of Jenson, Smythe, and Mullins. Smythe goes on to summarize the deep involvement of MUS in bringing this honor to the city by saying, “without MUS boys, MUS faculty, and MUS alumni, this event simply would not have happened.”

Smythe provided oversight for MUS’ involvement while Mullins supervised the organizational committee and logistics. Although the conference followed the universally recognized format and brand, Orr believes this conference is unique among others around the world in its close relationship with the city in which it was held. According to Orr, “It showcased Mem- MUS Publications phis specifically. Many of

It’s Eleven for SLAM Saatvik Mohan Co-Editor-in-chief

Pictured: Luke Jenson ‘07 and Patton Orr ‘16

Eleven years ago, Mr. Judd Peters ’81 began a program that would redefine the landscape of summer scholars programs in Memphis. Scholars, Leaders, and Athletes in Memphis, SLAM, is a full-day, comprehensive summer program involving academics, leadership, and physical fitness for high-achieving students from the Memphis area. The program endeavors to offer a summer experience that provides a variety of educational opportunities. Each day, the program follows a specific formula that intertwines all aspects of SLAM’s mission. Each morning is devoted to academics, followed by classes to develop leadership and public speaking skills. The day ends with athletic actvities. Additionally, SLAM includes daily academic adventures to broaden the horizons of the students such as summer reading, film making, Minecraft, and science labs.

Recent graduate and former SLAM participant Richard Ouyang ‘15 helps instruct students in the lower school computer lab.

Kamar Mack ’15, a freshman at Georgetown Univeristy, calls the SLAM program “amazing.” Mack, who began as a participant in 2008, has been a

counselor for the past few years. “This role as a counselor allowed me to make a real difference in the lives of the boys every year,” Mack remarked.

Rudolph began his football career at Darlington School in Rome, Georgia, and attended Georgia Tech, where he played as an All-American safety under legendary coach Bobby Dodd. After having served in the United States Air Force, Rudolph returned to his high school alma mater where he coached football for one year. In 1959, Coach Rudolph accepted the position of head football coach at MUS. During his tenure at MUS, Coach Rudolph amassed 295 wins, a state championship in 1985, and ten district titles. Under his leadership, the Owls had nine double-digit win seasons and competed in three state title games. When Rudolph retired in 1997, he had the most wins of any coach in Shelby County and at that time, was the fifth winningest coach in TSSAA history. “Besides his faith in God and his love for his family, MUS was the most important part of my dad’s life from the time Colonel (Ross) Lynn hired him in 1959 to his death in 2008.  He had a special love for his coaches, his fellow teachers, his students, and his players” reflected his son Courtnay Rudolph ’77, who believes his father impacted thousands of students. Coach Rudolph had a significant influence in the development of the values and traditions that MUS esteems to this day. When asked about his father’s legacy, Courtnay Rudolph commented, “I think that my dad and Gene Thorn (MUS headmaster, 1978-1992), along with many others, laid the foundation for the athletic program and overall philosophy of what MUS should aspire to be during the turbulent period of the 60’s and 70’s.  He played a major part in developing and executing the strategic vision of the school during the period from the mid 60’s to the early 90’s. I would say that the legacy that he created for the football program, as well as the overall athletic program, was an environment that emphasized winning with class.” Coach Rudolph’s traditions still stand today as MUS continues to value integrity in competition, hard work, and dedication.

The young men who serve as counselors try to connect with the SLAM students by serving as role models. Mack, who admired his own counselors when he was a participant in the program, states that he got to be “the cool, older brother.” SLAM does not just stand for Scholars, Leaders, and Below: Ms. Laura McCormick instructs Athletes in Memphis but also for men- SLAM students in the science lab. tors and friends as well.

NEWS

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2 September 2015

The Owl’s Hoot

The Owl’s Hoot Staff Sam Bartz Saatvik Mohan

MUS Students Trek Through Europe

Editors-in-chief

Austin Hord Bilal Siddiq Managing Editors

Colin Threlkeld

Forest Colerick Aneesh Ram

The group stands before the Louvre Museum in Paris, France.

Sports Editor

During the spring 2015 semester, 14 students took an extra English class taught by Ms. Elizabeth Crosby focused on such themes as World War One and war literature in general as well as the effect that the “Great War” had on the “Lost Generation” of American expatriate writers. Students read such classic novels as “All Quiet on the Western Front”, “Johnny Got His Gun”, and “The Sun Also Rises” as well as attending monthly movie viewings at Crosby’s home.

next day, students toured the Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Reims and downtown Reims before departing for Paris the next day.

On May 28, having completed the class, rising juniors and seniors accompanied by Crosby and Coach Bill Taylor flew into Brussels, Belgium, to begin their trek across Western Europe. Upon arrival in Belgium, the group boarded a bus to Ypres, Belgium, where they toured German and Allied WWI cemeteries and memorials as well as a WWII museum, all while still in a jet-lagged stupor. Crossing over to Reims, France, the

Following the stay in Paris, the group flew to the south of France, where it stayed the night in the beautiful medieval town of SaintJean-Pied-de-Port. The next morning, students set out on the first leg of “The Way of St. James,” traversing the 18-mile hike across the Pyrenees Mountains—about 12 miles of which was entirely uphill—and ending up in the small town of Burguete-Auritz, in the Navarre region of Spain.

The group stayed three nights in Paris including trips to the Louvre, the Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Paris, the Eiffel Tower, Arc de Triomphe, Les Catacombes de Paris, and the Musée d’Orsay, all while still allowing students free time to explore the city on their own.

Now in Spain, the group made a day trip to Pamplona, home of the famous “Running of the Bulls,” before arriving in the picturesque beach resort town of San Sebastián. A trip to the Guggenheim Museum of Modern Art in Bilbao, Spain, and free time to spend on the scenic beaches engulfed the next day, before the group departed to its final destination of Madrid, the capital city of Spain. After a long drive into the capital, students had the chance to visit Bernabéu Stadium, home of the Real Madrid football club, and attend a bullfight that night at Plaza de Toros de Las Ventas, the second largest bullfighting arena in the world. Students enjoyed touring the many museums, monuments, and attractions while learning about European history, especially of WWI and its aftermath. Most important, no students were lost or arrested, making the trip an unmitigated success.

news Editors

Tucker Colerick Viewpoints Editor

Philip Freeburg Amusements Editor

Colin Threlkeld sports Editor

Brooks Eikner Copy Editor MUS Publications

Junior Henry Trammell enjoys the sights in front of the Louvre Museum in Paris, France

Cameron Lakin Photographer

Norman Thompson faculty advisor

Leaders Establish Goals for Upcoming Year

Honor Council

“The Honor Council has been an essential part of the MUS community since the school’s inception. Each year, the Honor Council is charged with the responsibility of fairly administering the Honor Code. Maintaining the integrity of MUS policies regarding infractions of the Honor Code is a duty the Council takes seriously. When a student trangresses the Code, the Honor Council investigates the charges and recommends to the school administration appropriate action to be taken. The best interest

of the student and MUS are given careful thought when a violation is determined. The school administration will consider the Council’s recommendation and make a final decision as to action.

there was no better way to excite students than to give them some variety. The grass will be used as the dance floor and the trees as the boundary. As the weather permits, Coachella in the Courtyard will be a great way to give the students a change of pace.

most part, but some modern tunes will be heard also. Other, smaller events, involve special activity tournaments that culminate in a championship to be played in front of half-time crowds at football and basketball games.

In addition to the tailgates, the first dance, which will be the 28th of August, has a bit of a twist: it will be in the Courtyard. With the dances at MUS desperately needing a facelift, the Council thought that

In addition to the Victory Dance, the Homecoming Dance will experience a bit of an augmentation. Due to the fact that the Spring Formal is one of the most successful events, the Council will be proposing that the Homecoming Dance be a semi-formal affair with dates, suits, and a dance floor. Swing dance music will be played for the

The Council wants to give students opportunities to plan other events like Fall Fest, Spring Fest, food sales, and competitions. This year’s goals are lofty, but they can be successful and enjoyable as long as students engage themselves in the activities.”

“Welcome back everyone! I’m looking forward to a great year with you all, and I think we will be able to accomplish a lot this year. You are a very talented group who can do great things.This year, we are going to focus a lot on two things: the youth of Memphis and the Binghampton neighborhood.

great impact on them. We can be a mentor of sorts and provide a positive role model. By targeting the youth, we can make a deeper impact on the people we are serving than we can through a simple Saturday project where we clean up along the side of a street and leave.

a person’s life. Many of the same people with children at Cornerstone Prep will go to Urban Farms to get healthy food for their families. We want to help these people in as many ways as possible, and we can best do that by narrowing our focus to this neighborhood.

First, Memphis has a very high population of young children to whom we can reach out. The hearts and minds of young children are very pliable, so we can have a

We are also going to focus our efforts specifically in the Binghampton neighborhood. By concentrating what we do to one neighborhood, we touch multiple areas of

I’m excited for what this year has in store, and I can’t wait to see what you are all capable of doing.”

Oath of Honor

Gabe Hanna Honor Council President

Student Council Tom Fowlkes Student Council President

We, the students and faculty at Memphis University School, hereby pledge our full support to the Honor System. I pledge to be honest myself, and in order that the spirit and integrity of the Honor System may endure, I pledge that I will make known to the Honor Council any case of dishonesty which I may observe.

“Starting the first week of school and continuing throughout this year, the Student Council wants to encourage the students to participate in many school activities. Beginning in the fall, the Council plans to hold pregame tailgates for all home football games to instill a sense of unanimous school spirit in the student body and faculty.

The Honor Council endeavors to uphold the bond of trust and faith that we hold to be paramount to the integrity of MUS. Respect for ourselves and each other is foremost to our sucess as students and gentlemen.”

Civic Service Organization Grayson Lee CSO President

Bloodworth Studio Updated Austin Hord Managing Editor

Thanks to some unexpected circumstances, the Bloodworth Recording Studio looks a little different than it did last year. Only a couple of weeks into the summer, some heavy rainfall leaked through the ceiling of the Fisher Fine Arts Wing and into the studio. Fortunately, the water avoided the vast majority of the studio’s equipment, but it seeped under the hardwood floor, which had to be thoroughly dried but ultimately replaced. Mr. Matt Tutor ’91, entering his first full year as the music teacher, had already

planned on updating much of the control room equipment over the summer, but because of the water damage, he had to work very hard to get the studio back to working condition in time for the fall semster. In fact, the water damage might have been a blessing in disguise, for the studio is now in much better form than in years past. “I’m looking forward to seeing what we can accomplish with it this year;” Mr. Tutor said, “the goal is to turn it into a fully-operational, professional-level recording studio. It’ll be a lot of fun.”

Right: The Bloodworth Studio undergoes final repairs and upgrades.

VIEWPOINTS The Owl’s Hoot

Pride or Prejudice?

2 September 2015

Tucker’s Grub Hub

Sam Bartz

Summer Ave.

Co-editor-in-Chief

The Confederate battle flag is a symbol of heritage to some people and a symbol of racism to others. A recent and prophetic example of racism is represented by the images of 21-year-old Dylann Roof seen waving the Confederate battle flag in pictures posted to a website in hopes of starting a racial war. Roof is now the accused killer of nine African Americans shot to death during a prayer meeting at the Emanuel African Methodist Episcopal Church in Charleston, South Carolina, on June 17, 2015. This massacre compelled Americans from every reach of the country to demand the removal of the flag from the South Carolina Capitol grounds in an effort to symbolically call for an end to racism. The Confederate battle flag has been a fixture of the South Carolina state building since it was originally flown over the Capitol dome on April 11, 1961, at the request of Representative John A. May. Officially, the installation of the flag was intended to commemorate the hundred-year anniversary of the beginning of the American Civil War. It remained in this location until 2000 when the flag was moved to a memorial on Capitol grounds dedicated to Confederate soldiers who died during the course of the war. South Carolina’s choice of the Confederate battle flag to serve as a memorial to the Civil War has been debated by historians. South Carolina flew several unique flags during the war. The state flag changed repeatedly, as did the official flag of the Confederacy. The Confederate battle flag was introduced in December 1861. The Stars and Bars, the national flag of the Confederacy, was too similar to the Stars and Stripes of the United States on the battlefield for Southern commanders to observe and assess engagements of warfare. If the goal of the flag’s installation in 1961 was to commemorate the beginning of the Civil War, South Carolina’s choice of the first flag of the Confederacy would have been more appropriate. Being the first state to secede from the Union, South Carolina is well represented as one of seven stars in a circular pattern on the first design of the Stars and Bars. This choice would have been more in keeping with the date of April 11, 1861. While April 11, 1961, was the hundred-year anniversary of the Civil War, it was also a period of tumultuous civil rights unrest. Prior to the flag’s installation, the following events had occurred: the Brown vs. Board of Education ruling, the murder of Emmett Till, the refusal of Rosa Parks to give up her bus seat, Martin Luther King’s election as president of the Southern Leadership Conference, the Little Rock Nine integration, and the interstate bus protests of the freedom riders. The first state to secede from the Union in 1861 appeared to draw a line in the sand a century later in 1961. As the African American population continued to fight for its rights, the Confederate battle flag continued to fly as well. Our past shapes our future. Relics such as the flags of the Confederacy should be kept and studied for historical preservation. However, any historic symbol whose intent changes and evokes feelings of hatred and distrust should be kept in the annals of bygone days. While we as a nation, not just the South, struggle with differences of race, religion, politics, and opinions, we must strive to move forward. While the removal of a flag will not solve the issue of racism, it is a place to start.

Pictured: The ceremony that removed the Confederate battle flag from South Carolina Capitol grounds courtesy of ABC News.

Dive Adds New Meaning to “Cheap Chinese” Tucker Colerick ViewPoints Editor

A “hole-in-the-wall” as some may say, this local favorite transcends its mediocre facade and delivers superb sandwiches every time. While I have never mustered up enough courage to try the corn dog or actually any of the Chinese food, I can attest to the fact that The Highland Super Submarine Sandwich Shop, known by regulars as “The Chinese Sub Shop”, boasts fresh bread and a smorgasbord of different sandwich options. It is neither the faded red walls nor the weathered tile floor that elevate the quality of this college student favorite, but it is instead the contrasting flavors and quirky combinations of ingredients that keep people coming back. And maybe the sign. Definitely the sign. But whatever the reason may be, you won’t regret stopping by this quaint diner. As you walk in and order a sandwich, you will be faced with a serious dilemma. Soft, or hard? These are your two bread options, but such a simple question plagues the ambivalent. I prefer soft, but either way, you will chow down on the same housemade succulence. Some, however, love more than just the bread. “The low prices are great, but nothing is better than the friendly workers and fast service” remarked one customer. The Chinese Sub Shop has all the qualities of a prominent Summer Avenue dive: great advertising, low prices, and, well, good food.

Governor’s School: Learning at a Cost Brooks Eikner Copy Editor

When I woke up in my bed at the DoubleTree in downtown Chattanooga on the morning of May 26, I was not ready to say goodbye to my family. I had made a commitment, and there was no backing out now. A few months earlier, Mrs. Bebe Jonakin revealed to the rising juniors and seniors that applications were available for summer courses held throughout Tennessee, all part of a state program called Governor’s School. There are 12 courses associated with the Governor’s School program: Arts, Humanities, International Studies, Engineering, Science, Prospective Teachers, Scientific Exploration of Tennessee Heritage, Business and IT Technology Leadership, Emerging Technologies, Agricultural Science, Computational Physics, and Scientific Models and Data Analysis. Each course is hosted by a university in Tennessee, which provides every student meals, campus housing, and a month-long college class—absolutely for free. Governor’s School warranted my attention. After having talked with Mrs. Jonakin and my parents, I filled out an application to the Governor’s School for Prospective Teachers. For reasons that are beyond me, I decided to apply to that school only, although I could have applied to multiple schools at once. Yes, I did it partly because my father is a teacher. Just a few weeks later, I was notified that I had been accepted, and all I had left to do was wait. As my family helped me unpack my clothes and make my bed in my UT Chattanooga dorm room, I prepared myself for our separation. When I was completely settled in, their time with me had elapsed; we said our goodbyes, and then I was alone, that is, besides the twenty-one other students, two counselors, a teacher, and a few administrators. The college course we were taught for the next four weeks, Education in the United States (EDUC 2010), included a week of “field experience,” during which we were all to teach children attending a summer camp on campus. Such a task seemed daunting on that first day, but we had a lot to learn, and learn we certainly did. The curriculum consisted of a textbook (“Teach Like a Champion: 49 Techniques that Put Students on the Path to College”), lectures, supplemental readings, guest speakers, group activities, and field trips. These field trips took us to tourist attractions around the city

such as the Tennessee Aquarium, Rock City, Ruby Falls, etc. The point of these field trips seemed utterly nonsensical to me, for they rarely related to our education course, and the teacher was trying very hard to draw nonexistent parallels. When the UTC Admissions Director spoke to us, the point of this course became all too clear to me: the school was promoting itself and the city to influence us to attend college there. I suddenly felt like a Pandora listener, using the service for free and receiving constant advertisements in between songs. Despite this epiphany, I focused on learning, and I decided to save the criticism for later. Being taught how to teach is interesting, especially when one has grown up as I have, being taught in exactly the opposite ways EDUC 2010 suggests. While some techniques of teaching match the ways I have been taught at MUS, there are other techniques that differ drastically. This difference is, at least in part, due to the course’s emphasis on Common Core State Standards, which control public school education. As MUS is not a public school, it does not fall under the domain of the State Standards, and our teachers are not subjected to these curricular guidelines. Much to my chagrin, my “field experience” class was Art for 5th-8th graders. My two assigned teaching partners and I had to design five lesson plans for Monday through Friday, knowing very little about the subject. During that week, I developed a newfound respect for teachers everywhere when I realized that teaching is incredibly stressful, especially when it comes to small children. Lesson: when you give a kid a paintbrush, he is going to paint on himself. But despite all odds, we pulled through. Governor’s School is a great chance for a talented student not only to learn new things, but also to test-run the “college experience.” I was away from home for a month; I had a roommate; and I did not know anyone there. Before long, I had befriended most of them, and I was no longer fazed. I am glad I took this opportunity to get a sense of how it feels to go to college. Bringing a free UTC tote bag stuffed with a UTC water bottle, a UTC lapel pin, a UTC pen, UTC hand sanitizer, UTC silicone cell phone wallet, and a UTC decorative glass mug, given to me as a parting gift, I entered Memphis, thankful to be home at last.

While much praise rains down upon the red-roofed establishment, some have their doubts. “Don’t look, just eat”, warns Memphis food connoisseur Drew Hursey. Whether you daringly choose the lunchmeat or confidently select a staple, every sub comes with the same condiments, including an array of veggies and Italian dressing (I can only applaud the marketing tactics exercised by the owners to draw a cross-culturally diverse crowd), but don’t study your selection too long, for the mysterious aroma of the meat has been known to unnerve the consumer. Even though the quality of the food is not highly esteemed, the delightful taste is something that cannot be disputed. If you are in the market for a beautifully crafted Chinese sub sandwich and have the stomach to handle it, this is your place. Don’t miss out, and Choose 901.

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2 September 2015

The Owl’s Hoot

New Faces Around Campus As in previous years, the Owl’s Hoot interviewed new faculty and administrative staff to allow students to become more acquainted with the recently added members of the MUS community. Bilal Siddiq Managing Editor

Ted Fockler ’10 Instructor in history

Are you originally from Memphis? Yes, I was born and raised in Memphis, TN. Where did you attend college? I received both my Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees from Boston College. Boston Strong all day long What are you looking forward to at MUS? I’m looking forward to being back in the fold. As an MUS alum, this place continues to mean quite a bit to me, and I look forward to adding to the school’s tremendous legacy in whatever small way I can, as well as pushing along a whole group of future Owl alumni. Who is your role model and why? While at MUS as a student, I was fortunate to have a number of teachers take me under their wing at one time or another, including (but not limited to) Mr. Askew, Mr. Eikner, Mr. Greer, and Coach Beck, who each served as resources both inside and outside the classroom. But, my father is probably my biggest role model by teaching me any number of valuable life lessons over the years like personal responsibility, service, and the importance of a sense of humor.

What are your interests and hobbies? I’m a big Netflix watcher and am particularly well-versed in NBC’s The Office. I love going to the movies as well as reading anything from a Batman graphic novel to a historical biography. I have been known to play soccer and basketball on occasion as well as being an avid Memphis Grizzlies and Boston Red Sox fan. What was your dream job as a child? I really wanted to be a secret agent as a child. I’d watch the James Bond movies over and over again, and during art class in elementary school, I’d draw pictures of the gadgets I’d have. Has anything at MUS surprised you so far? The only thing that has truly surprised me has been the utensil dispensers in the Dining Hall. Where the heck did those things come from? If you could have a superpower, what would it be and why? Teleportation hands down. So many of life’s hassles could be solved by being able to instantly transport yourself from one place to the next.

Cassie Hutto Upper School Administrative Assistant

Are you originally from Memphis? No. I was born and raised in Juno Beach, Florida. I then moved to Birmingham, Alabama, to attend Samford University. My family and I left Birmingham and moved to Memphis in August of 2010 as my husband was hired to coach football at another local school. Where did you attend college? Samford University What are you looking forward to at MUS? Not having to check skirt length on girls who don’t want to follow the dress code. Who is your role model and why? My mother. She was the principal’s assistant and the assistant to the academic dean at my high school as well as a mom to two daughters. Mom taught me everything I know about multitasking. What are your interests and hobbies? Coming from a VERY busy work environment the last five years as well as being a mom to a senior athlete, there hasn’t been much time for interest and hobbies other than sports. Once my son is off to college, I plan to get back into a routine that includes some time for me. Stay tuned…

What was your dream job as a child? I don’t know that I ever had a “dream” job growing up, but I was always the store clerk, the secretary, the banker at Monopoly, always the organizer/detail person when playing with my sister and family. My father asked me what I wanted to be when I was going off to college – a doctor? no; a lawyer? no; a teacher? no. He suggested a business degree and that’s what stuck. I have a degree in Business Administration and have been organizing my world and the world of those around me ever since. Has anything at MUS surprised you so far? The level of commitment to the school’s honor code. I attended the new parent orientation at which Mr. Ray stressed the importance of the honor code to the parents of students new to MUS. I listened to Mr. Abrahams cover this with the same passion to the ninth graders during their orientation. Today I participated in pledging my allegiance to the honor code along with the other faculty members during the opening convocation. Truth and honor are not only on the school’s logo, they are an integral part of the MUS experience. If you could have a superpower, what would it be and why? Seeing into the future. I’m a planner, and I’d like to be able to prepare for what’s coming.

Anne McWaters Instructor in English

Are you originally from Memphis? I was born and raised in Memphis. I spent a lot of time in Nashville for college and graduate work, so Nashville is like home to me as well. Where did you attend college? Vanderbilt University for undergrad and grad school. What are you looking forward to at MUS? Connecting with students...I love my field, and I enjoy cultivating a passion for literature and writing. I am also looking forward to working with my new colleagues who have been very kind and helpful during my transition to MUS. I am thrilled to be part of the MUS family. Who is your role model and why? I’m blessed and inspired by both of my parents, but if I had to choose one hero/role model, I would have to say my father. His humility, wisdom, faith, genuine kindness, and strength of character are treasures to me. I’m thankful to have been raised under his leadership. What are your interests and hobbies? Spending time with my son (Smith who is a freshman) and my daughter Mary Virginia (a.k.a. “Boo” who is in 8th grade) is what I enjoy most. Gathering with my extended family and friends, reading (historical fiction and mysteries are my favorite genres), traveling (especially to the beach), power walking, Pure Barre, and music of all kinds...all things I enjoy!

What was your dream job as a child? My dream job has always been working with children in some capacity, so I guess I’m still living the dream! I am a goofy camper/counselor at heart and have loved working at various camps over the years. I always wanted to open up and run a camp, a place where kids can embrace the outdoors, be themselves, grow in their faith,and have a blast all at the same time! We have many in the area that do just that, so now I am just thankful that my children have benefited from such places (Go CBT). I enjoy air conditioning too much now to live in the woods full time. Has anything at MUS surprised you so far? I have learned that I am directionally challenged and cannot seem to find my destination without taking a few laps around the Upper School halls. If you could have a super power, what would it be and why? Time travel (is that a super power?). I would like to go back in time and chat with some of my favorite historical figures. I would also want to hug a few loved ones whom I miss. In case time travel doesn’t count, then the wonder twin power (I am revealing my age here) of morphing into whatever you choose (my favorite being an ice slide) would be my choice.

The Owl’s Hoot

2 September 2015

New Faces Around Campus Amy Poag Lower School Counselor

Are you originally from Memphis? Yes, I grew up in Memphis. Graduated from Hutchison. Where did you attend college? Davidson College in Davidson, NC (undergrad); University of Memphis (graduate) What are you looking forward to at MUS? I’m looking forward to being around boys. I have three daughters, so I live with a lot of drama. (And shoes!) Who is your role model and why? I’d probably say my mom. I’ve always admired the way that she is comfortable with many different types of people. Also, she has a genuine interest in others and will go above and beyond to give of her time and talents when someone else is in need of her assistance.

John Simi Director of Instructional Technology

Are you originally from Memphis? Yes, I was born and raised in Memphis. I grew up in the midtown area, but have lived more in the East Memphis area. Where did you attend college? I received my Bachelor of Science in Secondary Education from Memphis State University and my Master of Science in Leadership and Policy Studies from the University of Memphis. What are you looking forward to at MUS? I think the collegial atmosphere. I have always tried to surround myself with really smart and interesting people throughout my career, and I know that by coming to work here, I will be among the best of the best. MUS has such a great reputation in the community, and I am looking forward to learning and growing through engagement with my new colleagues. Who is your role model and why? Without a doubt my father was my role model. He was such a Renaissance man, and people often referred to him as a “jack of all trades.” I can remember from my childhood how we would do so many interesting things like travel, attend various church and civic functions, explore the city of Memphis on Sunday mornings, or simply visit his office. He instilled in me the value of relationships, knowledge, service, and integrity, and I know I am the man I am today because he was my father and my role model. What are your interests and hobbies? I am an avid theater goer and have season tickets to many of the theaters in town including the Orpheum, Playhouse on the Square, and Circuit Playhouse. I would consider myself a “foodie”and eat

What are your interests and hobbies? I love: Hanging out with my family. Cooking. Reading (fiction and biographies are my favorite). Exercise (I like to try new things). The Sunday NYT Crossword (I do it on my iPad every week.) Traveling. What was your dream job as a child? Veterinarian. Not a science and math girl, though, so med school would have done me in. Has anything at MUS surprised you so far? I wasn’t expecting to have to apply so many Band-Aids at Owl Camp! If you could have a superpower, what would it be and why? I’ve always wanted to be able to make things happen by twitching my nose. Like the mom on “Bewitched”, which was one of my favorite shows growing up. (Did I just age myself there?)

out often. I enjoy trying new restaurants and have several on my list for this fall. I travel frequently and enjoy exploring new places.While I am at home, I garden quite a bit and prefer container gardening over any other type. I also enjoy renovating my home and have completed numerous projects over the years. I am a huge University of Memphis fan and attend most football games and all basketball games. I used to be a runner and completed an average of 14 half marathons a year for many years in a row. A leg injury in 2013 curtailed that activity, but I hope to resume my running during this coming year. What was your dream job as a child? I always wanted to be a teacher. I was fortunate to have some incredibly talented teachers when I was growing up, and I was always amazed at how they knew everything, shared really cool ideas and information, and just made my childhood fun! I wanted to do that for others. Has anything at MUS surprised you so far? I think how genuinely nice everyone is. What I have discovered is that everyone has the same goal in mind, everyone genuinely likes everyone else, people are concerned about each other and their success and all of that combines to produce an atmosphere that is extremely friendly, and the reception I have received has far exceeded my expectations. If you could have a super power, what would it be and why? The ability to manipulate time! I always take on more than I need to, so as a result, I am always finding myself running out of time to get things done. There are never enough hours for family, friends, and things that I enjoy, so it would be nice to slow time down or stop it monetarily for those types of things. It would also be nice to be able to speed up time for things that are not fun like boring meetings, medical procedures, or winter.

Anne Burruss Counselor

Are you originally from Memphis? I was born in Tampa, Florida, but moved to Memphis when I was two and half years old. I consider myself originally from Memphis. Where did you attend college? I received a BS and MA from the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, and a MA from George Washington University. Who is your role model and why? Throughout my life, I would say my mother, father, and grandmother are role models in my life. My mother encouraged me to be kind and gracious to all people. She taught and continues to teach in many different capacities which I believe set the stage for my desire to be an educator and counselor understanding that all people are important. One of my father’s favorite songs is “I Did It My Way” by Frank Sinatra. My father encouraged me to explore and discover what interested me and to move through life accordingly. With dedication, discipline, and determination, a person can accomplish a lot. Finally, my grandmother was a strong female example. Through her commitment to family and a career as a nurse, she set the bar high for women in her era and the future of females in the family.

What are your interests and hobbies? I have two children, one and a half and three and a half, so the majority of my time is spent at the zoo, the park, the swimming pool, the Children’s Museum, building Lego structures, playing games, and going for walks. Traveling to visit family and friends is something we all enjoy. This summer we visited friends in Birmingham, AL, and visited the McWane Science Center which was incredible. The beach is also a favorite attraction. I also enjoy reading, cooking, and spending time with family and friends who live in Memphis. I love to run and will hopefully participate in a half marathon in New York in the spring. What was your dream job as a child? As a child, I always wanted to teach 4th grade or be a pilot. Has anything at MUS surprised you so far? At the moment, I have not been surprised by anything. If you could have a superpower, what would it be and why? I would like to be able to be in more than one place at a time. There are many things I enjoy doing and there isn’t enough time in the day to get it all done.

Meredith McFarlin Instructor in Mathematics

Are you originally from Memphis? Yes, I am a proud, native Memphian! Where did you attend college? I attended David Lipscomb University in Nashville, TN. What are you looking forward to at MUS? I am looking forward to helping my students gain knowledge and skills that will help them excel in college and in life. I also am looking forward to football games! Who is your role model and why? My role models are ordinary people who live selfless lives, putting others’ needs before their own. My role models have integrity, stand up for what they believe in, and are always true to their word. My parents are two among many that I look up to.

What are your interests and hobbies? I am an avid Grizzlies fan. I enjoy exploring new spots and restaurants in Memphis. I also am running with the upper school cross country team this year. What was your dream job as a child? Being a daughter of a teacher, I always respected my mom’s choice of being a teacher. I have wanted to be a teacher for as long as I can remember. Has anything at MUS surprised you so far? I have been pleasantly surprised by the cafeteria food! If you could have a superpower, what would it be and why? My superpower would be to have the ability to instantly become fluent in any language.

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2 September 2015

AMUSEMENTS

Bass Pro Takes Pyramid

The Owl’s Hoot

A Look Back at 2012 Richard Ouyang Contributor

Recently a new song has gripped the world. “Gangnam Style,” written, choreographed, and performed by the South Korean rapper Psy, is part of his sixth album and has reached an unprecedented level of popularity. As I write this, “Gangnam Style” is number one both on the YouTube 100 and iTunes store in 17 countries, including the US. Psy has made history as the first-ever Korean rapper to reach number one on the US iTunes charts.

Austin Hord Managing Editor

The popularity of “Gangnam Style” starts with its music video, which begins with the slightly overweight Psy (fully clothed and wearing sunglasses) lounging on a beach, with club music in the background. Suddenly he rages and yells the most-remembered phrase of the video: something that sounds like “OPPA GANGNAM STYLE!” The video then cuts to Psy walking through a stable of horses. The rest of the music video includes small children, young women, and Psy himself dancing the very strange “Gangnam Style” dance, which represents horseback riding, in various places.

The grand opening of the Bass Pro Shop in Memphis attracted thousands of visitors.

Courtesy of WBFJ Radio Statoin

If you have not ventured downtown to the new Bass Pro Shop that just recently occupied the Pyramid, you are really missing out. At 535,000 square feet, this Bass Pro Shop is the biggest in the world, and it is not only an outdoorsman’s paradise but also a massively popular tourist attraction. Many of you may remember when Tom Marshall of O.T. Marshall Architects presented and explained the idea for the Pyramid’s transformation during a Friday chapel at MUS last year. I recently visited the Bass Pro Shop to see it for myself, and despite my previous knowledge of what to expect, I was amazed. The reasons why this Bass Pro Shop is so popular include jaw-dropping features such as the 28-story elevator, which, at 320 feet tall, is the tallest freestanding elevator in the country and puts you higher than the Statue of Liberty while simultaneously giving you a spectacular view of the retail store below. However, the view from the elevator is nothing compared to the sights that you can see from The Lookout, a restaurant and bar at the top of the Pyramid that provides access to two observation decks. The views of downtown Memphis and the Mississippi River are truly incredible. Adding to the impressive atmosphere is a 10,000-gallon aquarium located in the center of the restaurant.

A collection of Beretta shotguns. Just as impressive are the bowling alley, the casual-dining restaurant, the fudge shop, the alligator pond that surrounds the base of the elevator, and the Big Cypress Lodge which holds over a hundred hotel rooms. Also, if you have seen it at night, you have probably noticed the giant neon-green Bass Pro Shop logo on the side of the Pyramid. During my visit, I observed some noteworthy items for sale: a hundred-dollar “Deluxe Ghillie Hunting Suit” (pictured at left) that I would have bought if I had the money, duck decoys costing over 250 dollars, a Browning gun safe that will cost you ten times that, and a Beretta SO10 shotgun that is priced at over 82,000 dollars. Another Beretta gun was sold for over 200,000 dollars on the first day the store was open, but an employee in the Gun Center told me that purchase was handled directly by Beretta. At the suggestion of an employee and some shoppers, I rode the elevator to the top, and although the experience costs ten dollars, it is definitely worth it. “I love my job here,” another employee told me; “it’s always a surprise what I’m going to do and see on a daily basis.” Hey, if I were offered a job at the new Bass Pro Shop, I would take it in a heartbeat.

Letter From the Editors Sam Bartz, Saatvik Mohan Co-Editors-in-chief

For me, one of the most confusing moments occurs when Psy dances toward the camera as a huge wind blows against him and white debris swirls menacingly around him. He is eventually nearly covered in the stuff but seems to be unaffected. Other strange scenes include Psy watching another man stretching in a sauna and Psy singing next to two old men playing a board game. At one point a bomb goes off and the two old men fall off of a bench. Psy is also seen dancing on the seats of a bus filled with old ladies, who seem to be unaffected by his antics. Psy even dances on a duckshaped boat and engages in a dance battle with a man in yellow. Near the end, Psy is shown singing on the toilet. On YouTube, this viral video has almost 200 million views, substantially more than the music videos of many top pop songs. As of September 13, it is also the most liked video on YouTube, with 2 million likes. A natural part of seeing any YouTube video is looking at some of the million comments, and these comments do not disappoint. Preteen trolls continuously argue over Psy’s standing against Justin Bieber, comment the names of random countries, or claim that the song is terrible. However, for the most part, people agree that the song is “epic” and “has swag.” In addition to being the top song in several places, Psy has also performed this hit song on “The Today Show,” “The Ellen Degeneres Show,” and at the VMAs, in addition to being featured on CNN, Time magazine, and The Washington Post. Although the trend in pop music videos has been toward the slightly weird (“Sexy and I Know It” immediately comes to mind), this music video, ironically described as “certain to penetrate the foundations of modern philosophy,” surpasses them all. I understand almost nothing he says, but the weirdness of it all is frankly very entertaining, and I would recommend watching the video if you haven’t already.

We have some big shoes to fill. Richard Ouyang and Yunhua Zhao worked hard last year to produce a newspaper that garnered awards from the Tennessee High School Press Association. It is our goal to carry on the torch and add our own unique additions to the paper. We are grateful for the staff of editors, writers, and photographer who were selected to assist us. We want to thank Mr. Thompson, the Owl’s Hoot advisor, for being a guiding force in our development. Our journey to co-editors began as sophomore and freshman contributing writers. We later became editors of our respective sections of the paper, sports and viewpoints. At the end of our junior year, we were asked to serve as co-editors. This past summer, we attended different journalism camps in an effort to compare techniques from two sources of instruction. While we plan to incorporate what we learned into the production of each paper, we are committed to upholding the literary tradition of the Owl’s Hoot. We want to encourage anyone who is interested in contributing to the paper to stop by the Owl’s Hoot office, stop us in the hall, or email us with suggestions for articles. We welcome any ideas for features or, even better, completed stories. We hope to see more participation from contributing writers this year. All Owl’s Hoot meetings are open to the student body and will be announced during chapel. Welcome to the sixtieth edtion of the Owl’s Hoot.

The Owl’s Hoot

2 September 2015

SPORTS

Golfers Prepare to Defend State Sam Bartz

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Grizzlies Add Talent

Co-Editor-in-Chief

Colin Threlekd The MUS varsity golf team is looking to win their third state championship in a row this season. Despite losing seniors Hays Moreland and Ross Redmont, who were both integral to the team’s dominant play last year, the varsity squad possesses a strong returning junior class comprised of Goodman Rudolph, Mason Rudolph, Trent Scull, Jack Crosby, and Jake Meskin. Senior Parker Sexton, who was sidelined by an injury last year, returns to the team along with fellow senior Bob E. Mallory and sophomore Wyatt Berry. Following tryouts, in which Fredrick Danielson (11), Walker Crosby (9), and Phillip Wunderlich (9) each earned a spot on the team, the squad competed in the Baylor Preview in Chattanooga, TN, August 10th and 11th, where they finished in a tie for sixth place. Regional matches against competitive schools in the Memphis area began soon after this tournament. In the first match of the regular season, MUS defeated Houston at Windyke Country Club with a score of 159-166. Sophomore Wyatt Berry was medalist with a score of even par

Senior Parker Sexton in tournament action. Coutesy of the USJGA.

36. The next day, the Owls defeated St. Benedict 154-166 in a matchup at Colonial Country Club; both Goodman and Mason Rudolph claimed the medalist position. In the following days, the varsity squad defeated White Station 143-169. Juniors Jake Meskin and Goodman Rudolph were co-medalists. In the match against school rival Christian Brothers High School, Goodman led the Owls to a 133-144 victory with an incredible score of 28 at the Links at Galloway course in Memphis. The Ronnie Wenzler Memorial, held at Windyke Country Club on August 20th, saw MUS finish second place overall to St. George’s. The varisty squad finished third behind CBHS and St. George’s at the FCA Invitational held at Windyke Country Club on August 24th. “I think we have a solid team and definitely a good shot at finishing the year strong and hopefully with another state championship,” said Goodman Rudolph. Although it remains early in the season, the team looks to be a strong contender to defend its regional and state titles this season.

Cross Country Hits Stride Over Summer Amusements Editor

This hard-working group has been joined by new coach Ms. Meredith McFarlin, who ran on the women’s cross country team at David Lipscomb University in Nashville. She brings another reputable running career to an already experienced coaching staff. The team will rely on many new faces this year, but Fuess and his teammates are confident that “with practice and teamwork, we can really be something exceptional.”

Right: Sophomores Ben Freeman (left) and Hastings McEwan (right) run in the 2014 Jesse Owens Classic in Oakville, Alabama.

Seniors Provide Leadership for Young Team Sports Editor

School is back in session, and that means that the Gridiron Owls are ready to take Hull-Dobbs Athletic Field once again. Coming off a 9-4 season cut short by a loss to Nashville rival Ensworth in the Division 2-AA State Semifinals, the Owls gear up for a 2015 campaign having to replace a number of starters from a senior-heavy 2014 team.

Season highlights include matchups with Mississippi powerhouses Olive Branch and South Panola on September 4th and 18th, respectively, as well as a regular season closer against Christian Brothers on October 30th. “This team has worked

General Manager Chris Wallace’s opening move of the offseason was a savvy one, turning the rights to 2013 60th pick Janis Timma into Luke Ridnour, whom the Grizz flipped for veteran swingman Matt Barnes. Barnes, a long-hated foe while battling against the Grizz in the playoffs as an L.A. Clipper, should provide even more grit to a team already defined by its Grit and Grind mantra. As the Grizzlies had only one pick in the NBA Draft, a late first-rounder, fans did not expect many fireworks. After drafting LSU power foward Jarell Martin, who averaged 16.9 points per game and grabbed 9.2 rebounds per game last year as a sophomore, with the 25th pick, Wallace put Jon Leuer on the move to Phoenix in exchange for a second round pick used on Kentucky combo-guard Andrew Harrison.

Most notably though, the Grizzlies re-signed NBA All-Star center Marc Gasol to a five-year, $110 million deal with a player option for the fifth year. Gasol’s maximum contract, however, puts the Grizzlies in a sticky situation financially. Re-signing Gasol means that Memphis will likely not have the available salary-cap room to sign a three-point specialist in the free agency. Short of a trade to free up cap space, the Grizz will likely be relying on Courtney Lee to serve as a floorspacer again this year. All things considered, though, the Grizzlies’ offseason moves ensure that Memphis will be a major contender this season in a crowded Western Conference. Look for the Warriors, Spurs, and Grizzlies to lead the pack in the West this year.

Colin Threlekd

Junior Steven Regis will be taking the snaps as the new starting quarterback behind five new starters on the offensive line in David Nelson, Rashaad Clayton, Witt Fesmire, Daniel Tancredi, and Kobe Gibson, with Josh Gray at the tight-end spot. Bradley Foley and Ryan Pahlow are expected to take most of the handoffs at running back while Thomas Pickens, Tom Fowlkes, Jalen Friendly, and Jalon Love will be Regis’ usual targets at wide receiver. A stout linebacking core consisting of Jackson Dickinson, Tim Hart, William Rantzow, Evan Smith, and Swep Wallace will anchor the defense behind the front line of Bolton Gayden, Eli Christenbury, and Ogonna Oraedu. At the defensive back spots, Jalen Friendly and Maurice Hampton will be supported by Thomas Pickens at safety.

The Memphis Grizzlies went into the 2015 offseason needing to keep together its “Core 4” of Gasol, Conley, Randolph and Allen, while adding depth to its bench to move closer to title-contender status in an always brutal Western Conference.

Electing not to re-sign backup center Kosta Koufos, the Grizzlies picked up high-flying, 6-9 forward/center Brandan Wright at the full mid-level exception (3 yrs, $18 million), giving Memphis athleticism in the frontcourt that it has not had since the likes of Darrell Arthur and Ed Davis departed for the Nuggets and Lakers, respectively. A Brentwood alum and Nashville native, Wright, who averaged 7.3 PPG and 4.3 RPG while maintaining a 64.2 FG% last year, was willing to sign with Memphis for a smaller salary in order to move closer to home. As expected, the Grizz also picked up the $2.2 million team option for backup point guard Beno Udrih this year.

Philip Freeburg Less visible due to off-campus training, the cross country team has been tirelessly preparing for yet another competitive season ahead. Early athletic conditioning is vital to the team’s success. Coaches Joe Tyler and Jonas Holdeman have continually acknowledged the fact that the runners “are really developing as a team.” Despite having lost several of its top runners from last year’s state runner-up squad, the team still has high hopes for this season.“Expectations for this year are better than last year,” said senior Matt Fuess, “because we’re as dynamic a team as we’ve ever had.”

Sports Editor

Season Update Game 1: MUS defeats Central, 38-0. Quarterback Steven Regis went 1530 for 207 yards and 3 touchdowns. Bradley Foley led MUS in rushing with 68 yards on 15 carries. Tom Fowlkes led the Owls in receiving with 4 catches for 41 yards. The team had 393 total offensive yards.

Pictured: Senior members of the varsity football team. hard each day to finish practice better than when we started. I am happy to say that they would get an “A” for a grade in that effort. If we can continue to do that over the next few weeks as we go through our first few games I have confidence that this group can play championship quality football

during our region games and the playoffs,” said Coach Alston. The consensus among members of the team seems to back up Alston’s confidence, showing optimism about the squad’s chances of winning the division and going to Cookeville to compete for a sixth football state championship.

Game 2: MUS tops Kingsbury, 49-7. The MUS defense held the Kingsbury offense to minus 44 total yards. QB Steven Regis threw touchdown passes of 35 yards to Thomas Pickens and 38 yards to Jalon Love. Running back Bradley Foley scored two touchdowns on a punt return of 41 yards and another run of 7 yards.

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2 September 2015

The Owl’s Hoot

Alumni Soar to New Heights Sam Bartz

Co-Editor-in-chief

AND

Jack Richman Contributor

Harrison Williams Harrison Williams’ decathlon career has soared to new heights in the year since he graduated from MUS. The class of 2014 alumnus finished a remarkable freshman year at Stanford University in which he broke Olympian Bob Mathias’ school record in the decathlon. Despite being a freshman and lacking prior experience at the collegiate level, Williams has garnered well-deserved national attention, and his performances this summer continued to demonstrate his exceptional abilities. At the Pan American Junior Championships in Edmonton, Canada, Williams was a strong performer. Dominant throughout the first day of competition, Williams won six events including the 100m (10.67), long jump (6.98m/22-11), high jump (2.03/68), 400m (48.28). On the second day, Williams was victorious in the 110m hurdles (14.41) and the pole vault (5.00m/16-5). In

Former Owl Pace Clark, Class of 2013, garnered national attention at the 2015 Phillips 66 National Championships, held from August 6-10, after he placed third in the 200m butterfly with a time of 1:56.84. Although finishing four seconds behind winner Michael Phelps, who swam the fastest time in the world this year in that event, Clark more than surpassed the Olympic trial time standard of 2:01.99. Having committed to swim for the University of Georgia, Clark concluded his freshman season by placing ninth in the 200 butterfly and 20th in the 100 butterfly at the Southeastern Conference championships, earning him a position on the All-SEC Freshman Team. During his second season, Clark finished 14th in the 200 butterfly at the NCAA national championships, and at his second SEC championships, he placed fifth in the 200 butterfly, 13th in the 200 backstroke, and 17th in the 100 butterfly. Asked about his greatest swimming experience since becoming a collegiate athlete, Clark replied, “My greatest swimming experience would have to be this past summer.

I got the chance to train at the Olympic Training Center in Colorado Springs, and the best part was that my training partner was Michael Phelps. I really got to see how he trains, and he helped me get faster each day. It also really helped because at nationals I was swimming right next to him when I got third.”

the 1500m run, Williams set a new personal record, finishing in 4:29.20. He would set the American Junior record and meet record with a score of 8,037 points, surpassing the previous record held by Gunnar Nixon (8,018). “I had a great first day. I had a (day one) personal record of 4,182, but it wasn’t until about the last 400 meters in the 1,500m that I realized I had a chance at the American Junior record,” said Williams. Shortly thereafter, he was named the USA Track and Field Athlete of the Week. Commenting on his record-breaking victory, Williams said, “A month ago I fell 17 points short of the national record. This weekend I broke it by 19 points and became the 5th best junior decathlete in the history of the world. All I can say is thank you to everyone who helped me get to this point. God blessed me with the ability to do what I love every single day, and I couldn’t be more thankful.”

Pace Clark

Currently a junior at the University of Georgia, Clark has steadily improved and shows great promise of joining the US Olympic swim team. “I really just want to keep pushing myself to get better each day. I want to put myself in a position in which I can make the Olympic team next year. Since getting third at nationals this year, I have seen that I can compete with anyone, which gives me better hope going into the Olympic year,” said Clark.

Carlton Orange Another former Owl making national athletic headlines, recent graduate Carlton Orange ’15 won the gold in the 800m at the Pan American Junior Track and Field Championships held from July 31 to August 2 in Edmonton, Canada. Orange, a Class of 2015 track standout and current University of Arkansas Track and Field team member, captured the title with a time of 1:48.06. A member of the 2014 MUS track team that

won the state championship, Orange garnered national attention throughout his high school career. In addition to helping the Owls capture the first track state championship since 1997, Orange holds the school record for the 800 meter run with a time of 1:50.97. He is also a part of the school record relay teams in the 4x400 and 4x800. Early in his senior track season, he ran the fastest 800m in the nation at the time, clocking in at 1:50.94.

Spencer Richey MUS alumnus Spencer Richey ’15 competed in the US Tennis Association Boys’ 18 & 16 National Clay Court Championships Tournament in Delray Beach, Florida over the summer before his freshman year at The University of Alabama. Beginning as one of 256 competitors in the tournament, Spencer advanced to the quarterfinals before being defeated by Nathan Perrone, the third-ranked rising junior tennis player in the country. Before being defeated, Richey was able to defeat John McNally, the fourth-ranked rising junior tennis player who had won the tourna-

ment last year in the 16 division, and JJ Wolf, the fifth-ranked rising junior tennis player. “I think I played really well,” Richey said, “especially for not having trained that much on a clay court. I like slower courts like clay courts, so it helped my game.” While at MUS, Spencer was the number one seed for the Tennis team and played a key role in helping the team win the TSSAA Regional Tournament and becoming three-time state champions.