People running through the Commons, lines of people extending throughout the cafeteria, tables piled high. No, it’s not lunch time; it’s the MHS Nike sale Renaissance held on Friday, May 13, and Saturday, May 14. The sale was Friday at 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. and Saturday 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. for the public. The students and staff of MHS, however, got a special VIP showing on Friday from 3 p.m. to 4 p.m.
“The after school [special showing] had an overwhelming participation,” Valerie Kamhi, Renaissance sponsor, said. “We did not anticipate how popular it would be.”
All apparel was 50 percent off retail price. Renaissance got the apparel from Paul Russo, the owner of Fanamania at the Chesterfield and West County Malls, which is why the products were able to be sold at a discount. The college items sold displayed colleges such as Mizzou.
Other schools around the St. Louis area, such as Parkway South and Lafayette, have had Nike sales in the past, which inspired Renaissance to have one.
“[The renaissance members] had been to and heard about how great they were at other schools and wanted to try it here,” Kamhi said. “We had several students, staff, parents and community members who were interested in doing it.”
7 percent of the money made at the sale went to the Renaissance program. Renaissance will use the money to provide treats, banners and locker signs for things like Recognition days, Donut Mondays, Trivia Thursday, and much more around the school.
“For the first time doing it, [the Nike Sale] was a definite success,” Kamhi said. “We learned a few things we would want to differently for next time though.”
Kamhi said changes such as switching the location of the sale to the gym and switching the time of the date of the event to a half day may make the sale even more of a success.
“The owner told me that we had the largest school response he had ever seen,” Kamhi said.
Many students were impressed with the sale.
“It was legit,” Jake Duecker, sophomore, said. “I love looking fresh in all my new Nike.”
Staff members also enjoyed the event as well.
“It was great,” Leslie Vollertsen, practical arts teacher said. “I think it’s a good idea to help generate money for Renaissance; plus, it gives people new stylish clothes to wear.”
Kamhi said there is the possibility of another sale next year.
“The success of the sale with the students, staff and community will lead to a future sale,” Kamhi said.