by Steven Baker and Nick Mannion
March Madness has finally begun, and basketball fever has hit Jamesville-DeWitt High School. The Corporate Communications class, led by English teachers Terese Eaton and Kristin Hardy has really gotten the March Madness fever going at J-DHS. They are holding many events, like a bracket challenge, a homeroom door decorating contest, and a three-on-three basketball tournament, to celebrate the season. “This is a fun, good way to get school spirit,” said senior Joanna Butler.
The money the Corporate Communications class is raising through these events will be going to the Make-A-Wish foundation. “We wanted to keep it local and directly to the community,” said senior Patrick Cramer, who is in the class.
One Corporate Communications student who enjoyed making the March Madness contests happen was senior Ryan Mandelis. “I really enjoy the fact that we can make money for the Make-A-Wish foundation, while having fun activites like the three-on-three basketball tournament,” said Mandelis.
Another activity students are raving about is the door decorating contest. One student who took this contest very seriously is sophomore David Tyler who raised the most money, over $15, in order to get the first pick of team to support. Tyler’s homeroom chose Michigan State, who is a two seed in the Midwest conference and plays Middle Tennessee in the first round. Kansas was the most popular college team among the student body. One student who would of liked to get Kansas for their door is freshman Darien Oliva; “I really regret not being able to get to the Four Corners faster because I would of done anything to get Kansas.” Kansas is a No. 1 seed in the South Conference, and they play Austin Peay, a 16th seed, on Thursday March 17.
The most popular activity among students is the three-on-three basketball tournament, which is happening from March 29 to March 31. The proceeds from this event will also go to the Make-A-Wish foundation. One student looking forward to the the three-on-three basketball tournament is senior Ethan Palmer; “I look forward to the opportunity to be able to donate to a good foundation while dominating and showing off my serious skills on a basketball court.”