Photo: All hail the pie-eating champion!

On Wednesday morning, Nov. 25, before the start of the four-day Thanksgiving Day recess, Belmont High School’s Wenner Field House became home to a “battle of the classes” as seniors, juniors, sophomores and lowly freshmen would decide which graduating year would dominate this year’s Pep Rally before the annual football tussle between Belmont and Watertown.

The morning proceeded with the March Band belting out its musical routine, fall athletic teams presented to the crowd, the cheerleaders flew into the air and a slew of fun events were contested including a pie-eating contest, tricycle races, tug-of-war (in which the junior class won by default) and musical chairs.

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                           

How can you have a Thanksgiving Day football game without a Pep Rally?

And while not on the level of the near gladiatorial rallies seen in West Texas or other football hotbeds, Belmont High’s allowed for a great deal of school and class spirit to shine on a rainy, dreary day before the annual Belmont/Watertown game on Thursday, Nov. 27.

The Marching Band played, the cheerleaders cheered, the fall sports teams were honored and there were a series of races and challenges with musical chairs and tug of war (which literally became a clash of entire classes) being the most popular.

This year, the school honored its first group of Model Marauders, students who excel in areas of education at the High School.

Kolya Illarionov (scholarship) for outstanding commitment to his academics and the creative flair he has with projects and presentations.

Anna Handte-Reinecker (art) for excellence in photography and the machining of her own dolly system for time-lapse camera shots.

Devan O’Toole and Tess Hayner (citizenship). O’Toole created, advertised, planned and ran a haunted house fundraiser for BHS students and the Belmont community, raising $1,100 for the Make a Wish Foundation. Hayner created, planned and ran the first “Speed Dating Career Night,” where seniors and juniors were able to interact with young career professionals.

Teacher Dan Moresco (staff) for his creative teaching, involvement, and caring approach to students and facility at Belmont High School.