Wednesday, December 23, 2009

Winter Is Here!!!

Snow Storm Kicks Off the Winter of 2009-2010
By: Kaitlyn Ellis
Winter has officially begun and even earlier than the usual. A snow storm swept through the region this weekend. Snow fall was quick and heavy and temperatures were right around the freezing point (32 degrees Ferenheit) . The lower parts of the tri-state received anywhere from three to ten inches of snow while the higher elevations in places like Beckley got nearly two feet!


Due to power lines down and transformers blown, several homes in the tri-state were or still are without power, heat, or water. Some don’t even have phone access. American Electric Power (AEP) has brought in several workers from out-of-state to help with the issues. Even with all the help, some families are not expecting power until Christmas Eve. It just might be a candle lit Christmas this year.

Although the storm caused power lines and trees to fall and electricity to go out, families enjoyed the snow. Children and adults alike went outside to build snowmen and have snowball fights.

Tuesday, December 22, 2009

Christmas Week - Wrap-Up

Ashton’s 5th and 6th grade Christmas Play and Concert

Brian Booth


The students at Ashton preformed their yearly Christmas program.


Both the 5th and 6th grade class did a great job and Hannan looks forward to them becoming part of the Wildcat pack in the near future.








______________________________________________________



ResCare Field Trip & Huntington Mall
Brian Booth


ResCare


Hannan accompanied classes from Wahama and Point on a county fieldtrip. While at ResCare the group observed the adult assisted living / working facilities.

We saw the café, water facility, and the box folding area.


The staff was very nice and all the workers seemed happy. Future visits to ResCare may be planned for 2010.

After the tour of the ResCare facility the group went to the Huntington Mall.

_________________________________________________





Huntington Mall

While at the Huntington Mall Kieran, Luke, and Brandon was sitting on a bench observing the financial aspects of the Holiday season.



The group is taking a break at Chick-Fil-A and studying the nutritional value of the meals.

The girls got to visit the Bath & Body works store and the Disney store.



The boys like looking at GameStop and comparing the different aspects of the Wii and Xbox 360.

Friday, December 18, 2009

SENIOR SPOTLIGHT: Jennifer Swan

SENIOR SPOTLIGHT: Jennifer Swan - Hannan High School

Point Pleasant Register - Delyssa Huffman
Hannan High School senior Jennifer Swan is a very active student who just finished up her last season of volleyball and is currently playing basketball. While she stays very busy with sports all year long, Swan does find time to help out her community and serve as a role model for teammates and classmates.

ASHTON — Being dedicated to sports and serving as a role model are just two characteristics of Hannan High School senior Jennifer Swan.

Swan, 17, is a busy athlete who participates in sports all year long. Whether it’s fall and she is spiking balls over the net in volleyball or if it’s basketball season and Swan is leading her team as captain, this young lady excels in both.

Swan is a former captain of the varsity volleyball team and said that this season, her last one, was a good one for the team.

“We won senior night, but lost sectionals,” Swan said. “I am happy about our season and I had fun with the team. That is what is most important anyway.”

She said that she has played volleyball since 10th grade and that her coach, Brenda Bowman, was always there for the team.

But basketball has been Swan’s favorite sport for as long as she can remember.
“My mom says I was born with a basketball in my hand,” Swan said. “I love playing it.”

Basketball season started last week and Swan said the team is currently busy with practicing. In addition to shooting lay-ups and free throws alongside her teammates, she also practices at home.
Swan is a previous recipient of the Most Improved in Basketball Award. She said that coach Carolyn Cooper has helped her improve her game.

She said that even though her mom never played the sport, she considers her her a role model.

At Hannan, Swan is president of the National Honor Society. She enjoys participating in community service through the organization. The chapter is currently involved in a week-long canned food drive at the school.

As president, Swan’s responsibilities go beyond organizing events such as the food drive. She also delegates duties to other members.

The active senior takes pride in her community outside of school. She said that she enjoys volunteering as a way of giving back to the community.

"I like the reactions from people,” Swan said. “When you help someone out, you can see how much they appreciate it.”

When she finds the time, Swan enjoys hanging out with her friends and relaxing.

Her future plans include attending Marshall University.

“I would like to become an orthopedic doctor,” Swan said.

She would like to always be involved in sports and believes that by majoring in orthopedics at Marshall, she will not only be close to home, but be close to the sport that she loves.

Swan said that she would love to get a scholarship for basketball, but doubts she can multi-task college classes and practices. She also may coach basketball one day.

Right now, Swan is just focusing on her classes and making the most of her senior year. She said that she will miss everything about Hannan, especially the small-school atmosphere.

“You don’t feel tossed around out here,” Swan said. “It’s very one-on-one in the classroom and I like this school.”

She is the daughter of Rodney and Beth Swan of Ashton.

Seniors for “Senior Spotlight” are chosen from all three area high schools and are nominated by the principals, counselors and faculty.

Tuesday, December 15, 2009

BASKETBALL PROGRAM COVERS




Celebration of Life

Surprise Birthday Party
by Cassie Parsons

Approximately seventy-five people showed up at the Apple Grove Fire Department on Saturday, December 5th, to surprise Hannah Mayes on her 15th birthday. Hannah, a brain tumor survivor, enjoyed the "Celebration of Life" planned by her family.  She received great gifts and enjoyed visiting with all the  friends and family present. Hannah and her family appreciates all the support from the community throughout the many medical issues she has faced.


The Hannan Varsity Cheerleading Squad attended the party. “She was so surprised when she got there,” says Cassie Parsons of the squad. “Hannah seemed to have had a very good time.”

Monday, December 14, 2009

Hagley Does Hannan Proud

Notable Alum


Charlie Hagley, Hannan graduate and current Hannan Althletic Director... on TV...announcing the Marshall vs Ohio basketball game! 


Charlie, a former Assistant Basketball Coach at Marshall, is actively involved in both his alma maters.


HANNAN NEWS Photos

Christmas Cheer during lunch

HAPPY HOLIDAYS!


Throughout the week Hannan will be enjoying the yuletide tunes from our music department. Each day students will enjoy live Christmas music while eating lunch.

This special treat will highlight the talents of student musicians playing  guitars to keyboards. Please let these young stars know how good they are and how much we appreciate them!


Thanks to all the teachers and students who share their talents with the lunch crowd!

FFA WINS $4000 IMPROVEMENT GRANT!

More Improvements.... on the way!


Hannan’s National FFA Association Chapter  (formerly known as Future Farmers of America) has been awarded a $4000 - “Living to Serve”   grant for improvements at school. FFA advisor, Jenna Meeks and her class have already been working on improvements in conjunction with Mr. Hudnall’s class.


The grant applications details how…” new improvements will involve the planting of the area with native trees, small plants and herbs, as well as the construction of lab tables where 7th – 12th grade classes can meet for outdoor, hands-on class discussion.”

Students will be involved in all stages of the new construction and maintenance of the lab, and our high school teachers will give their input about how the space could be used to complement their lesson plans. Teachers will develop lesson plans using the outdoor learning lab to help students meet the state science and biology standards. Congratulation to Ms. Meeks and the FFA for helping make Hannan shine!

Friday, December 11, 2009

Fine Arts Concert

Christmas Spectacular Turnout
by Chelsea Ward
12-11-09

The Fine Arts concert was greatl as families and friends surrounded the (cafeteria/courtyard) and hall walls to view the Christmas Spectacular. The community gave the appeal of Christmas by dressing accordingly in the holiday attire attentively acknowledging the students’ talents. Each of the music programs delighted the crowd with a few Christmas melodies and the Dance class performed. We appreciate the the public support.


Thursday, December 10, 2009

Girls Varsity First Basketball Game

Ladycats vs. Bison
By Kaitlyn Ellis
12-10-09

The Hannan Ladycats had their first game Tuesday, December 8th. The Ladies took on the Buffalo Bison, an opponent they fell one point short to last season. Going out with confidence and smiles, the Ladies gave everything they had but, it wasn’t enough. Starting the season with only seven team members was very hard. They didn’t have quite enough energy…and…fatigue caused trouble for Hannan.


The Ladycats did a great job running their offense although their passes were weak.

In frustration, Coach Caroline Cooper stated, “You’ve gotta make those passes Ladies!”

Bison’s offense was very difficult to defend and the ladies defense was falling apart leaving the middle lane open for the drive.

Wednesday, at practice the team worked on their passes and reviewed defensive rotations. The Ladies are preparing to conquer their county rival, the Point Pleasant Black Knights, Friday night. The game will be at home at 7:00 pm. Come out and support the Ladies!

Wednesday, December 9, 2009

SCHOOL CLOSED AT HANNAN

Hannan High School is closed for staff & students today (December 9, 2009) due to power outage.

Tuesday, December 8, 2009

Christmas Celebration Spectacular

 Fine Arts Concert
Hannan’s Fine Arts program will be highlighted tonight at 7:00 pm. The concert will take place in Hannan’s Commons Area (cafeteria/courtyard) where cookies and punch are going to be served. The entire community is invited and we hope to see lots of friends and family. We are eager to spread our Christmas cheer and present the students’ remarkable talents to the public.

Monday, December 7, 2009

VICTORIES & CELEBRATIONS

Junior High Basketball
VICTORIES
12-7-09



Thursday night, the Junior High Basketball boys AND girls defeated the OVCS Defenders. The ladies came out with tons of spirit and excitement to start off the evening. They were running the ball back and forth, often resulting in difficult offensive possessions; however, they played hard with their hearts and gave everything they had to come out and prevail. The boys played some great defense and forced several turnovers. They took offensive control and didn’t accept any pressure from the defense. The Defenders couldn’t keep up with the Wildcat motion and the Wildcats triumphed. Both teams won their first game, the first game of the season. GO CATS!




On Friday, the Junior High Basketball teams traveled to Geary. The ladies couldn’t make their shots but tried physically to dominate the small gym floor. They were unfortunately defeated 39-19. The Junior High boys played some strong offense and did what they could on defense but the game went into overtime, resulting in a second consecutive victory for the Wildcats, 49-40.

_______________________________________________

FBLA Christmas Banquet
By: Kaitlyn Ellis & Colton Campbell
12-4-09



Thursday evening, Hannan High school’s Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) held a Christmas Banquet for the members, sponsors, and a special guest from the Certified Public Accountants (CPA), Richard Walker. Mr. Walker gave an excellent presentation about his job purpose, opportunity, and success. Following the speech, everyone gorged their faces with the vegetable trays a variety of cookies (provided by FLBA members and Mrs. Shelia Flora), and chips and salsa (provided by the Hannan High School cooks) that was appreciatively donated. After snacks, the FBLA chapter gave the report updates for the sales and future fund-raising events. FBLA also gave out a couple of door prizes to draw the occasion to a close. The FBLA did a wonderful job on the decorations and represented themselves very well.


______________________________________________



New Vice Principal
12-07-09

Hannan has a new member on staff. We had a substitute vice principal for most of the year, until Ms. Amy Kammer took the position. Ms. Kammer described it as, “...an opportunity I couldn’t turn down.”

Prior to becoming Hannan’s vice principal, Ms. Kammer taught Special Education at Point Pleasant Junior High School.

Ms. Kammer stated, “The students are very respectful,” and when she was asked how long she anticipated staying, she replied, “Right now…forever!” Ms. Kammer says she will stay, “as long as they let me.”


 Ms. Kammer is  a very BIG fan of Dale Earnhardt Jr


______________________________________________

A Room With a View

These are some  electrifying pictures taken from our Journalism classroom last week..... ENJOY!










Monday, November 30, 2009

Wildcats leap into future: HHS makes improvements, additions

Point Pleasant Register
by Delyssa Huffman

11.25.09 - 12:57 am


ASHTON — Located in the hills of Ashton sits a school that is taking leaps and making pawprints for the future of its students.

Hannan High School has recently added to the spirit of the junior senior high school with the completion of the “Wildcats Den,” a new and improved courtyard and a school incentive program.

According to HHS principal Dr. Karen Oldham, the students at Hannan are enjoying what is now being offered to them.

“We have a great group of kids out here who are coming together in a collaborative effort to improve the atmosphere,” Dr. Oldham said.

One of the biggest additions is the school store, “Wildcats Den.” that, in its first day, brought in more than $300. The store is operated by students including Chris Mullins and Brandon Benson who are in the work program at the school.

Brian Booth, life-skills educator, and Frankie Hudnall, community work-based educator, work with the students in the program and understand how important this project is to Mullins, Benson and the other students.

“This is a great opportunity for kids that need life skills,” Booth said. “Not only are they a part of something bigger than themselves, but they are increasing their self-esteem and it has truly been amazing to see the students come to school early just to set up the store and get ready for the day.”

Booth said this creates a great link between all the students in the school.

Dr. Oldham is pleased with the results the store has shown thus far and said that the students at Hannan have a “big, tender heart” when it comes to working with the students that are in charge of running the store.

The “Wildcats Den” was named by the students and it carries everything from pens and pencils to apparel, including hoodies and beanies, and is located adjacent to the cafeteria. The store is open in the morning during breakfast and also during “grab and go.” Not only do the students and teachers shop at the store for their Wildcat items, but parents have also taken part in supporting the school.

“The store has been a great asset to the school,” Hudnall said. “Mr. Booth and his students have done a great job and I hope to see it expand throughout the school year.”

Not only do Hannan students now have their very own store to shop at, but they also have their very own courtyard in which to enjoy outdoor classes or lunch.

Several of Mr. Booth’s students in the life-skills program have come together with the Vocational-Agriculture (Vo-Ag) Department and the Future Farmers of America (FFA) to provide a great atmosphere for learning and socializing.
Jenna Meeks, a Vo-Ag teacher and FFA leader, described the construction project as being good for the kids.

“It’s a great experience for the kids to get out and be involved in a unique opportunity,” Meeks said.
Brian Chapman and Carl Mullins are two students who worked to set up the picnic tables that fill the area and assisted in laying the gravel in the space.
“It was fun to be involved,” Mullins said.
The courtyard, according to Mr. Hudnall, took about two weeks to complete. Before it was just an empty space in the middle of the high school, now it has turned into a relaxing and unique part of HHS.

“The kids took much pride in this project,” Hudnall said, “and it is great for them to see what they have accomplished in a school setting.”

Several groups are already looking forward to working on community service projects with the courtyard and Dr. Oldham is excited about the partnerships that are already forming between the community and high school.

Denita Shaw, a teacher at HHS and a 4-H volunteer, said the Go-Getter’s 4-H Club will take part in a project to bring color to the area by adding planters throughout the courtyard.

With all of the Wildcat spirit circulating throughout the school, a new school incentive program is now providing nearly half of all of the students great opportunities outside of the classroom.

On Dec. 10, 2009, 110 students out of the 230 enrolled at HHS will take a trip to the Charleston Civic Center to enjoy a showing of Scrooge.

Students are selected to participate in the program based on three “A’s:” attendance, attitude and academics. To qualify, a student must have no more than five absences, display great behavior and have a grade point average of 3.0 or better.

“I am so thrilled to be taking nearly half of the school on this trip. It really gives the students something to strive for,” Dr. Oldham said.

SENIOR SPOTLIGHT - Brandon Benson - Hannan High School


Point Pleasant Register
by Delyssa Huffman

11.25.09 - 10:58 pm

ASHTON — Mr. Wildcat at Hannan High School is not only considered royalty at the school, but he is a truly, spectacular senior.

Brandon Benson, 18, is an individual with Down syndrome who has been mainstreamed in public schools throughout his years of education. He is your average teenager who enjoys sports, especially the Thundering Herd, four-wheeler riding and being with friends.



From Ashton Elementary to HHS, Benson has progressed step-for-step, right alongside his classmates.

His mother, Linda, gives much credit to her son’s educators.

“The teachers need recognition because they were there in the classroom, helping other kids understand Brandon’s situation,” Linda Benson said.

She currently assists Benson at Hannan and said that the school has been “wonderful and caring.”
Benson has two teachers that he really considers special to him, Andrea Henderson and Brian Booth.
“Mr. Booth really has a heart for kids,” Linda said.

Benson knows Booth through the work program at HHS that allows him and other special needs students to obtain life skills needed in society. This program has grown at the high school and now Benson is even involved in working at the “Wildcats Den” school store.

In the classroom, Brandon learns with his peers and receives additional attention from the special education teachers. Linda said that her son can learn anything and Brandon added that he “likes school a lot.”

Many of Benson’s friends have been with him since grade school and, according to his mother, they have always looked out for him.

Benson said some of his best friends are Larry, Curtis, Chris and Carl. He is also really good friends with Amanda Neal, Marla Nowlin, Kendra Plants and Brittney Jenkins.

Along with this group of friends, Benson has made many buddies through Special Olympics.
Benson is highly active at the Olympics and participates in all events including basketball and softball. He is also an excellent bowler, placing second and fourth at a Special Olympics tournament in Parkersburg.

In other community activities, this 18-year old is involved in the Go-Getter’s 4-H Club and he enjoyed his last year with the Special Lamb Project. His lamb’s name was “Jumper.” He is also in Boy Scout Troop #88.

Benson is involved in the annual State Buddy Walk held in Charleston every October. He enjoys going there with his friends and walking to show his support for those he knows with Down syndrome. Benson also supports the Autism Walk and all special needs children.

His mom described him as being “happy all of the time” and anyone who sees his contagious smile would know just how blessed he has been.

Down syndrome is the most commonly occurring birth defect, affecting one in every nine hundred children. Along with the common physical characteristics, individuals with Down syndrome often have heart complications and difficulties with hearing and speech along with other health-related issues. But, as in Benson’s case, individuals with Down syndrome can lead successful, productive and happy lives.

Linda said that it has been hard at times, especially when her son can’t tell her what is wrong. But with the support from friends, family, teachers and the entire education system, she is proud that her son has received a great education.

As for hobbies, Benson enjoys listening to country music and listening to his dad play the harmonica. He also likes taking trips to the beach and playing with his dog, Old Yeller.

Benson will graduate with his classmates in spring 2010 and said that he is looking forward to going to prom. He also thanks his classmates for voting him Mr. Wildcat, of which he is very proud. His future plans are to become employed at Green Acres in Lesage.

Sunday, November 29, 2009

ALL STATE VOLLEYBALL

Brenda Bowman wanted to pass some "good news" along, another success at Hannan. For the third year in a row Hannan has had an all-state volleyball player chosen. This year is Jennifer Swan 2nd T...eam All-State ( top 20 in the state according to the WVSWA and WV Coaches). Thanks!

http://www.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%253A%252F%252Fwww.wvgazette.com%252F200911230935&h=ebbceb52626a83fcce7b81f47d4e72c2&ref=mf

Wednesday, November 18, 2009

UPGRADES. IMPROVEMENTS & DETOURS

COURTYARD

We finally are getting to use the courtyard after 3, almost 4 years.




Before the upgrade it was just an area that grew grass and was a pain to maintain. (every pun intended)

Now, after a little help from our friends and a lot of help from some students the Courtyard can now be used.  It has gravel with four new picnic tables and two new trees.



Students will be able to enjoy  fresh   air with their lunches when weather permits.






______________________________________

Front Benches


Another upgrade on campus has been the addition of the benches in front of our school.




This allows someplace for the students to sit while waiting to be picked up.

The benches are Wildcat Blue and are very attractive at the school entrance.


_______________________________________

Press Box


Late spring, last school year, a storm swept through the community. With high-winds and heavy rains, the raging storm blew our press-box to pieces.

Community and parent volunteers have been working tirelessly to rebuilt a Press Box.


Though the project was not completed before the end of the season, there was enough completed to allow the game to be announced from the top of the structure.




___________________________________________

Over the bridge and through the woods



The road to Hannan High has been a rough one this year.




After a culvert collapsed, a portion of Ashton Upland Road was closed and all traffic was re-routed.

Anyone traveling to Hannan this school year has been unable to take the main road and must use an access bridge  installed beside of where the old one used to stand.



Locals are still awaiting the arrival of the new bridge and wondering if it will ever get finished.









Monday, November 9, 2009

Wednesday, November 4, 2009

Some advocate 8-man football  - Prep Sports - Charleston Daily Mail - West Virginia News and Sports -

Some advocate 8-man football - Prep Sports - Charleston Daily Mail - West Virginia News and Sports -: "That's true for Class AAA and even Class AA schools. But for some schools, like Hannan High in Mason County, the sidelines are sparse.
'The numbers game is always going to be a disadvantage for us,' said Dave Barr, head football coach at Hannan, where enrollment totals less than 150 for grades nine through 12.
The Hannan Wildcats, who stand at 0-9, have played most of this football season with just 13 or 14 players on the entire team.
'It makes practice really difficult because there have been weeks when I didn't have anybody to line up across from,' Barr said.
Barr and several other coaches around West Virginia say there's a simple solution for small schools like Hannan: eight-man football.
Eight-man football is fairly common in rural areas of more than a dozen states, mostly west of the Mississippi River. It's typically played at high schools where small enrollment makes fielding a full team for traditional 11-man football a challenge.
Officials with the state chapter of the National Football Foundation think the concept could work well in areas of the Mountain State and are asking the West Virginia Secondary Schools Activities Commission to consider it."

Friday, October 30, 2009

HOMECOMING -SPIRIT WEEK



 HOMECOMING EDITION....SPORTS PROGRAM.... COVER PICS. 

Full coverage of Homecoming will be in next week's edition of the school newspaper..."PAW PRINT"