Senior Laurel Barber poses with her mother Angie Barber and father Dylan Barber during her signing ceremony December 14. Barber will play volleyball and throw javelin at Ottawa University.
Barber Signs Letter of Intent
Austin Henderson, @whscharger
Senior Laurel Barber signed her Letter of Intent on December 14 to play volleyball for Ottawa University.
Barber also recently decided to become a dual-sport college athlete and throw javelin as well.
“I chose Ottawa because it had a small town feel that I grew up around and that I really liked,” Barber said. “Ottawa also has the big town feel that I am really excited to experience since I have never lived in one before. The people at WHS have always pushed me to do my best and it has taught me how to multitask and work hard. Wabaunsee has also taught me how to support everyone around me because that will only make you better.”
Principal Jan Hutley spoke at Barber’s signing ceremony. “I don’t even know what to think as a parent, having a child alongside so many talented, hard working people,” Hutley said. “It’s definitely making them all better.”
Along with her friends and family some of her coaches were also there to give their thoughts about her as an athlete.
“I remember watching Laurel back when she was a little kid watching her older sister,” volleyball coach Tracy Capoun said. “It seems that Laurel has just grown up around volleyball, and she just loves it, and I love watching her play since you can tell how much she loves volleyball. I’m really glad that she is going to be able to continue playing for four more years.”
Gilbert, Wollenberg Swear into Military Service
Hannah Mumpower, @Hlmump01
Senior Eli Wollenberg was sworn in to the Air National Guard Friday by his grandfather Dick Wollenberg who served in the Army for 43 years, achieving the rank of Lieutenant Colonel.
Wollenberg joined the Air National Guard for benefits such as 100 percent tuition assistance and healthcare benefits. He felt very honored to have his grandfather swear him in.
“It was pretty cool,” Wollenberg said. “I got pretty emotional because he was sworn in by his father, so it runs in the family.”
Wollenberg would like more people to think of military service as a career.
“I suggest more people try because then they would get more access to a college degree,” Wollenberg said. “You have better chances of making it in the world.”
“Eli has worked hard to prepare for his future and I know he will serve his country well,” Hutley said.
Senior Frank Gilbert swore in to the Army Guard on Tuesday.
Gilbert was sworn in by Staff Sgt. Mark Nussbaumer in the WHS library in front of family and friends. Gilbert intends to be a welder in the military. When asked what brought about his decision, Gilbert said “It sounded like fun.”
“Frank has matured into a responsible young man and I am so proud of his dedication to our country,” Hutley said.
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