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The Purple Clarion

The Student News Site of Harrisburg High School

The Purple Clarion

The Purple Clarion

Herman Morrill poses outside his Auto Shop in Carmi, Illinois. The photo features a bulldog statue in the garage area that looks very familiar.
Photo provided.

Beloved mascot bulldog has interesting beginnings

Bella Dooley, Editor in Chief January 29, 2025

Having a picture taken next to the HHS Bulldog mascot statue is simply a part of becoming a high school student. The statue has changed over the years, but the important tradition it stands for remains...

The Washington Commanders faced off with the New York Jets in the first game of the preseason for both teams on August 10, 2024 from Met Life Stadium in East Rutherford, NJ.  (Photo: Joe Glorioso for All-Pro Reels)

Former Saluki making big plays in D.C.

Braxton Murphy, Sports Editor January 24, 2025

Jeremy Chinn, a former standout at Southern Illinois University, is making a name for himself on the Washington Commanders’ defense. Chinn, who played for the Salukis from 2016 to 2019, racked up 243...

Band and theater director Hannah Drake receives award at varsity football game.

Drake wins top theater award

Sarah Girtman, Staff Writer September 5, 2023

Hannah Drake is the director of band, color guard, and the theater program. Last spring, she was selected as the musical director for the IIllinois Theatre Association’s Illinois High School Theatre...

New superintendent ready to bring change to district

New superintendent ready to bring change to district

Francesca Messerschmidt, Staff Writer December 12, 2022

After months of uncertainty, Harrisburg has finally announced the hiring of a new superintendent. It was announced at the Nov. 15. school board meeting that Carmi-White County principal, Amy Dixon,...

Executive board members met at the Sept. 20 meeting. They discussed upcoming events, and voted on things within the district.

Superintendent resigns leaving district wondering what’s next

Francesca Messerschmidt, Staff Writer October 25, 2022

Among many changes this school year, one more has occurred in the district in the form of Dr. Eric Witges resigning and taking a new job with Farmer’s Insurance.  This has left the district with...

Junior Eliza Markum plays the flute during the Popcorn Days parade.

Band wins first place at Popcorn Days

Riley Mize, Staff Writer September 13, 2022

The band marched at Popcorn Days in Ridegway, taking first place once again.  The first Popcorn Day was April 12, 1958. During this annual celebration people enjoy live entertainment, rides, games,...

Sophomore Tony Keene stands on the fourth place podium.

Keene places fourth in state

Drew Hawkins, Staff Writer March 3, 2022

Sophomore Tony Keene has had a phenomenal wrestling season this year. Keene had a record of 48-3  wrestling in the 113lb weight class. This great record had him as a favorite to go far in the postseason....

That's iconic!

That’s iconic!

November 9, 2021

The Southern Illinoisan is currently running a story about iconic Southern Illinois images, but what are Harrisburg's icons? We are inviting you to send photos of people, places and things that you feel...

Pep Club dressed in their best Western attire to support the Dogs.

What Do You Think?

November 4, 2021

Winter sports season begins soon. What themes would you like to see in the Dog Pound? Be creative, but keep it school appropriate! Acknowledgement: Information submitted will be forwarded to Student...

Freshman Emma Bolin shows off her winning costume during Christmas Spirit Week 2019. Bolin is now a junior.

What Do You Think?

November 4, 2021

Christmas Spirit Week will be here soon. In the past we have had days like Ugly Christmas Sweater Day and Red, White and Green Day. What day would you suggest for this year's spirit week. Be creative,...

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