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Weeks home destroyed, Jackets respond with aid By Collin Whitten Asst. Editor
to provide for them and others affected by the tornado. “The very next day, the Years of planning, saving, Starkville school administraand memories were taken tion was there to help me,â€? from SHS choir director Re- Weeks said. “They were gina Weeks when her home willing to bring absolutely was destroyed by a tornado anything we needed‌They that touched down on Satur- worked all day, and I was very grateful for that.â€? day, April 24. Among supporters from Weeks’s husband, daughter, son-in-law, and two grand- the school, students of Weeks daughters had gathered in her and their families, as well as home for shelter amidst tor- some of Weeks’s coworkers and friends joined the effort nado warnings. Minutes later they found to help Weeks and her family. “I’ve been so grateful for themselves in the path of a the kindness and compassion category F-4 tornado. “I remember feeling utter and generosity of the people disbelief that we were going who’ve helped,â€? Weeks said. Phillips Contractors of Cothrough this,â€? Weeks said, describing what she remembers lumbus, where Week’s husband, Benny of huddling is with her “This is not the Weeks, e m p l oy e d , family in her also bathroom. first tragedy in has helped by Within thirty seconds, my life. Many doing charity work rethe storm had passed bad things hap- moving the in over, and pen, but that timber the area and Weeks was the left with only won’t stop our clearing remains of the baththe Weeks room ceiling lives.â€? home. for shelter. - Regina Weeks Mount Within Moriah Bapten minutes, tist Church, county officials arrived at the Weeks of which the Weeks’ are home to aid the family, and members, has provided meals within the next twenty-four and any necessities for vichours, the Red Cross arrived tims of the tornado.
The Weeks family home was almost completely destroyed and has now been leveled to make way for construction. Photo by Collin Whitten
When asked about her reaction to the loss of her home, Weeks said, “I found out that five people had died, and there I stood with my children and grandchildren. I may have lost my home, but how could I be angry about that? You can always start collections again, but you cannot get a life back.� Five deaths have been confirmed in the Weir area, including three children, and the Weeks family has offered its condolences to their families. “This is not the first trag-
edy in my life. Many bad things happen, but that won’t stop our lives,� Weeks continued. “We’re grieving, but at the same time I’ve always got that voice in the back of my head saying, ‘You just wait and see.’ God doesn’t intend bad, but good. I’m just anticipating the purpose behind all of this.� While many people would find satisfaction in having the opportunity to start fresh, Weeks has had a hard time preparing for the new construction and getting
settled in to her new car. “I literally had to pick out a house plan overnight. Most people would be excited about getting a new house,� Weeks said, “but I haven’t been very joyful about it. There were a lot of memories in that house.� Rebuilding for the Weeks home began Thursday April 30, and any help has been welcomed. A fund for the Weeks family is being taken up in the main office, and anyone wishing to donate should speak with Mrs. Edwards.
Student catapulters goes to Ole Miss ... Feature on Pages 8-9.
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Upcoming
Events
May 5 Senior Class Day * May 7 Senior Luau * May 13 Spring Choir Concert * May 14 Mustang Giveaway * May 17 1st & 3rd Exams *
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Around 100 still eligible for Mustang Giveaway By Taylor Bowden Contributing Writer At the beginning of the school year, students at Starkville High School were told by the new principal, Keith Fennell, that students who had fewer than three absences and three referrals would have a chance to win a brand new 2010 Ford Mustang. The effort was intended to motivate students with an incentive for positive behavior. Now, as the school year is coming to a close, there are around 100 students who qualify for the chance to
win. However, the cash for the car did not come out of the schools budget or Fennell’s pocket. Starkville Ford purchased the policy to cover the prize value from a promotional company called Grand Prize Sports. “Grand Prize Sports...fund things like the halftime free throws at basketball games or field kicks at football games,� Fennell said. Grand Prize Sports doesn’t just hand out money. They have a system that allows them to profit, to an extent. They have a computer
program that compiles the chances that an average person has at completing a sports-oriented competition. The more people competing the higher the chances that someone would win the prize, in this case a Ford Mustang, that Grand Prize Sports would have to pay for. Not without compensation, though. “The Ford dealership paid Grand Prize Sports for the policy,� Fennell said. “And whether anyone wins or not, they keep that money.� The ‘three strike’ system set by Fennell that restricted who could try to win the car
was put there to allow for the occasional illness and provide students with the opportunity to learn from their mistakes without being eliminated from the competition. If the number of students that met that qualification is significantly lower than 100, both Fennell and assistant principal Sean McDonnall agree that they might change the restrictions to allow for more students to participate. “The Ford dealership paid for 100 students to compete,� Fennell said. “We want to get our money’s worth, and we all want someone to win that Mustang!�
Uniform Survey Results
May 18 5th & 7th Exams * May 19 2nd & 4th Exams * May 20 6th & 8th Exams * May 21 Graduation, 5:30 p.m.
Total Forms returned: 328 Votes: Black 262, Grey 171, Yellow 144, Gold 133
School colors for SHS: Black, Gray and White
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Nine staff to retire in 2010 By Cullom McCormick Contributing Writer Nine staff members will be retiring from the Starkville High campus this year. The retiring faculty members include Dr. Paul Cuicchi, who has taught at SHS for 34 years, coach Cleveland Hudson, an SHS grad with 32 years experience, Toxie Coker, a history teacher with 13 years experience, and football coach Bill Lee with 29 years coaching experience, eight at SHS. Also retiring is Wanda Calhoun, who has been teaching 27 years, the last five at SHS, and Ron Newell with 26 years experience. Secretaries Joan Edwards and Linda Johnston, both with 28 years, and Melinda Young, secretary at Millsaps, are also retiring. Newell left school earlier
this year with health problems and has decided to go ahead and retire. “I wasn’t going to retire this year, but I have to because of my poor health,� he said, “I decided it was time to retire when my diabetes starting kicking in and I had congestive heart failure.� These faculty members have been in lives of many students and will remember them forever. “It’s been a great honor to serve the young people here,� Cuicchi said. “They’ve brought great joy to my life. If I had to choose again, I’d always choose teaching.� The school is losing an especially-qualified group this year, many of which have been a part of some major Yellow Jacket memories. “I had the privilege of coaching four state championship football teams, and
two state track champions,� Hudson said. “Every day I’ve enjoyed, and every day was a challenge.� That’s not to say every day has been perfect. “I guess the lowest point [of my career] was when I had a child pass out,� Coker said. “She was asthmatic, and her aspirator wasn’t working.� These teachers have loved their careers and have some pretty quirky memories. “I remember a lot of fun stuff, like kids playing pranks,� Cuicchi said. “Some stole my calculator and made a ransom video.� There are still students who remember and thank these teachers. “I feel very fortunate to have had the opportunity to teach,� Coker said. “At the end of the day, you feel like you’ve done something.�
Top: Dr. Paul Cuicchi, and athletic director/football coach Bill Lee. Middle: teachers Wanda Calhoun, Cleveland Hudson, and Toxie Coker. Bottom: Adminitrative assistants Melinda Young (Millsaps), Linda Johnston, and Joan Edwards. Also retiring: teacher Ron Newell. Photos by Terra Blair and Mediagraphix Photography
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Damm selected for Camp Rising Sun By Grant Beatty Contributing Writer Freshman Emily Damm is this year’s selected student to attend Camp Rising Sun in upstate New York. Founded in the forties, it was originally an all-boys camp to further leadership skills. It wasn’t until the mid-seventies that Camp Rising Sun became co-ed. Sixty boys and sixty girls attend from all over the world; the staff is international as well. “I am truly honored to
have been selected for this prestigious camp,� Damm said. For two months, these campers rough it; they sleep in tents and tend to all necessary living conditions. Cell phones are prohibited and campers only have access to internet once a week, so any correspondance that goes on is through letters. However students can recieve emails that are printed out by staff members and put in the campers’ mailboxes. Though it may seem harsh, this is for a greater good.
“It really forces you to be in the moment,� camp veteran Tess Long said. “You can’t progress together or get over your homesickness if you’re glued to your phone, wishing you could be back home with your boyfriend. It’s hard at first but by the end you don’t want to leave – it’s an amazing experience.� Every day at the camp, a new Sachem, a Native American word meaning leader, is chosen from among the participants to organize and lead the daily activities. This teaches the kids how
Freshman Emily Damm will spend two months in upstate New York for Camp Rising Sun. Photo by Ruth Brown
to handle leadership and resolve problems by working together. “After I talked to Tess, I was really convinced that I wanted to apply,� Damm
said. “So I got interviewed by Dr. Cobb and simply waited on my results. I’m thoroughly excited.� Camp Rising Sun starts in June.
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The Jacket Buzz Volume 17, Issue 6
Tess Long
Editor-in-Chief
Collin Whitten Assistant Editor
Staff Writers Ruth Brown, T’Keyia Davis, Ryan English, Leena Mrayyan, Ty Ringo, Ebony Robinson, Jimmy Sherrod, Brooke Underwood and Cheyenne Underwood
Contributors Taylor Bowden, LaMarion Lindsey, Cullom McCormick, Grant Beatty, Zach Mitchell and Michael Mosley
R.J. Morgan Advisor
Statement of Policy The Jacket Buzz is published three times each semester by the Journalism Department at Starkville High School. The Jacket Buzz is a student-run publication committed to providing the students of Starkville High School with objective and informative coverage of events involving or affecting the student body. The Jacket Buzz serves SHS as a forum for student expression and thought. Content decisions are made by student editors. Factual errors will be corrected by a retraction in the next issue. Opinions expressed are those of students and do not necessarily reflect the views of the adviser, administration, Starkville High School faculty, or the Starkville School Distict. Editorials represent the majority opinion of the Jacket Buzz staff. Letters to the Editor are accepted and published, excluding those that are deemed libelous, malicious, hurtful or disruptive. Unsigned letters will not be published, and all letters are subject to editing. Please email all letters, or other comments/concerns, to rjmorgan@starkville.k12.ms.us
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Editorial The editorial below is a written collaboration among all members of the Jacket Buzz staff. Ideas expressed represent the majority opinion of the staff.
Who’s Who program time questionable Recently Starkville High School administrators have decided to move the Who’s Who program to after school. Not only is it being moved to after school, but studets are also being charged a dollar to attend the Who’s Who program. This is just another part of a trend that has been occuring during this school year to cut down on the number of programs. Not only is Who’s Who being moved to after school, but so is the SHS Talent Show. We feel that this defeats the purpose of have a fun program if it’s not held in school. We feel that there will be less of a turnout, and students won’t be as enthusiastic about the after school programs since by 3:21 most students are tired and ready to go home, and waiting after school for a program, or coming back to the school in the evening, not on everyone’s first priority list,
even if they wanted to attend the program. This decision was made because administration did not want to take away more class time for programs during the day, but what’s the point in organizing a fun program if students aren’t going to attend, and the ones that do have to pay for it? Also many of the senior programs have been moved to the same day. This just means longer periods of sitting on the gym benches, and something that could be enjoyable becomes something that students are trying to be checked out for. We simply feel that Who’s Who and other programs meant to be fun should be free and take place during school and senior programs shouldn’t make students sit on gym benches for up to two hours. However we do hope that regardless, students still make these programs a fun time or SHS and the 2010 seniors.
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Dress Code Drama Policy distracts from bigger issues By LaMarion Lindsey Contributing Writer We should stop worrying about what the students of Starkville High School wear and focus on the textbooks that students need for their classes. “The School Board really needs to pay more attention to the textbook shortage rather than the students’ clothing,� Bobbie Gray, mother of an SHS student, said. Gray, one of the many concerned parents, wants her child to get an education and not a fashion lecture. What the students wear should not concern the school board. But the much-needed textbooks that the students do not have should be. Some math courses at SHS don’t have a textbook, but the school board is worried about clothing. That does not make sense at all and it isn’t right. Instead of worrying about fashion statements that students make, the
school board needs to worry about their education. Although some students do not pay attention in class, the majority of the students do. They will not get enough information from their classes without textbooks. If a student is home doing a homework assignment and gets stuck on a question, they will not know what to do. The teacher is not around to help. Some courses have an online textbook, but not everyone has working internet at home and some students don’t have computers. Yes, it’s possible to stay after school and work in the school library or go to the public library, but who will provide transportation for the students whose parents do not own a vehicle? We should get off of the fashion issues and zoom in on the important things at Starkville High School. Students clothing is not the problem.
Dress code nothing to worry about By Zach Mitchell Contributing Writer Uniforms may not be a necessary issue, but the outward appearance of the school is important. I’ve been on the debate team and have been around to other schools in the area. A uniform (or mandatory dress code, as the case may be) does make the school look much neater and professional. Don’t get me wrong, just like LaMarion, I’d rather not have a uniform, but I feel that it’s nothing to get up in arms about. Sure, there are bigger issues at hand, such as the general education of students, but the uniform issue is something that we should just get out of the way and stop prolonging it. On the subject of textbooks, I’ve had literally three classes during my tenure at Starkville High School where there weren’t enough books for each student to take home a
copy, and those were either English classes where taking home a text book is unnecessary, or classes where the teacher was good enough not to use the book as a crutch. The main complaint with the mandatory dress code is that it is in fact a mandatory dress code, and therefore the school district does not have to pay for students’ (namely the ones under the poverty line) clothing. It is likely (and this is just speculation) that the reason for this is due to the extreme budget cuts that our school district is undergoing. If this is true, I’d rather not attempt to put any unnecessary fees on them in an extreme attempt to get rid of the new policy. This will lead to even more teacher cuts and shifts than what is already going on, leading to less classes being offered. As a student, I’d rather be wearing a uniform and receiving the best education that the school district can provide.
Biased media conveys no information By Taylor Bowden Contributing Writer The news media networks on television are so saturated with political bias that it is next to impossible to get a reliable, objective report on anything found on TV. The Healthcare bill, for example; Fox News would pound in the statement that the bill was evil, and CNN and MSNBC would constantly state and restate that the healthcare bill should be passed. Neither of which ever reported what the healthcare bill would actually DO.
And if they did, it was a long lost quip of information forever-buried in partisan effort. The main factor leading to the news media’s unreliability is ratings. News networks live off of the ads that they sell on their channels, and the only way they can sell ads is if they have high ratings. The quest for more money has shifted the focus of news channels to rating above actual reporting. A ‘reporter’ from Fox News who is now running for congress said that when she worked for Fox News, her primary job was to argue with either a liberal or an independent pundit
on air in six-minute installments. There is no news in that. No informational value is conveyed to the viewers in publicized debates like that. They are entertainment, not objective reporting. While some may argue that having an opinionated news network isn’t a bad thing and it’s fine to get your news from a source that agrees with you politically, at what point does it stop simply agreeing with you and become a network TELLING you what to think? When does their main goal change from objective reporting to pro-
gressing and supporting their chosen party’s politics? Why can’t they report a political event, and let the viewer decide what they should think about it? “I hate the [T.V.] news media,� Kris Madsen said. “The only news I get is from the small box on yahoo. com or from the local papers my parents read.� And as the networks show no sign of reversing the current trend, the task of objective reporting falls onto the shoulders of newspapers. It is the responsibility of newspapers to preserve objective reporting, or the notion may be lost forever.
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Catapulters besiege Ole Miss By Taylor Bowden Contributing Writer On April 22, trebuchets constructed by Starkville High School students laid siege to a competition at Ole Miss. The engineering department at Ole Miss holds an annual GravityDriven Catapult (Trebuchet) Hurling Competition for scaled down, student-made catapults and trebuchets. The competition ranks a catapult’s performance by measuring the height of the projectile’s (a tennis ball’s) trajectory, the distance the ball traveled, where it strikes the target (abouta 3-by-3 area), and how efficent the catapult is (How much they spent on it and how far it threw the ball.) Every year that Ole Miss has held the competition, history teacher Ty
Every time Adair takes students to Adair has offered his world history students extra credit should they the competition they bring back troconstruct a successful trebuchet and phies, and this year it was the trebuchet team of compete. sophomore AusEvery year a “It’s fun to do stuff tin Wileman and handful of students receive a besides sit in class. sophomore John Buffingsizable bonus to The students enjoy Gavin ton that carried their average. “It’s fun to do doing other things on that tradition. Wileman and stuff besides sit and teachers like it Buffington won in class,� Adair first place in the said. “The stutoo. � height category, dents enjoy dosecond in dising other things - Ty Adair, history teacher tance, second and teachers like in accuracy, and it too.� Adair enjoys taking his students second in efficiency. “Coach [Adair] made it interestevery year. “It’s a fun program,� he said. “[I] ing,� Buffington said. “He told us to had a great time. It’s fun to compete think of him as a sponsor and not a and everyone did their best. There teacher, so we wouldn’t ask him for were a lot of good catapults out help. We had to figure everything out ourselves.� there.�
By the competition’s written standards, all catapults must be at most seven feet tall. However, the catapult that beat Wileman and Buffington for first place in distance, a trebuchet from Northwest Rankin, actually measured 7 feet 1 inch, and technically should have been disqualified. But the judges decided to be lenient. NWR received a penalty to their score and were allowed to partake in the competition. “In the spirit of good sportsmanship, we congratulate Northwest Rankin,� Adair said. “Next year we will take a floating-arm trebuchet out there and win distance.� Wileman even managed to walk away from the event with a life lesson. “I learned that the smallest changes make the biggest differences,� he said.
Sponsor Ty Adair with students Price Day, John Gavin Buffington, Austin Wileman, Christopher Curtis, JR Tomlinson, Mike Brand, Andy Bond, Garrett Hunt, Adam Bond, and his four children -Tyler, Shelby, Marshall, and Rachel - with their awards at the Ole Miss catapult competition. Photos by Denise Adair
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Top: At the catapult contest at Ole Miss, sponsor Ty Adair observes his students. Below: World history students JR Tomlinson, Kase Kingary, Austine Wileman, John Gavin Buffington, Christopher Curtis, and Garrett Hunt prepare to launch their catapults behind SHS JROTC building before the Ole Miss competition. Photos by Denise Adair and Ruth Brown
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Jackets fall to Jaguars By Lammi Micha Contributing Writer The Starkville High School Boys’ baseball team finished their season with a 15-9 record, and head coach Danny Carlisle seemed pleased that his boys did so well in the regular season and made it to playoffs. “We are a pretty good road team, but we can’t seem to win at home,� Carlisle said. Carlisle seemed most pleased with his “biggest surprise,� sophomore Nathan Pugh. Pugh’s batting average is over .300 and, according to Carlisle, he has been great in the field and has made some great plays.
“I knew he was going to contribute, but, I didn’t expect this much out of him,� Carlisle said. Another one of his biggest surprises was Max Bartlett. Bartlett is a freshman who impressed Carlisle with his defensive plays and good bunting. Seniors Chuck Tillery, Reggie Campbell, Samuel Bigam, Cody Berryhill, and RJ Johnson have also pleased Carslisle in the field. Campbell did very well pitching relief and at first base. In the first round of the playoffs, the Jackets played Madison Central, losing game one 16-6 and game two 11-1 for a first round record of 2-0.
Bell to continue career at EMCC By Ty Ringo Staff Writer
Since the age of eight, Tamara Bell has spent most of her life on the softball diamond. And for the past six years, since her seventh grade year at Armstrong Middle School, Bell has been a part of the Lady Jacket Softball team. It being Bell’s last season as a Lady Jacket, her aspirations for the next few years still include fastpitch softball. “After graduation, I plan on attending college at EMCC and play softball with the Lady Lions,� Bell said. Bell also plans to major in dentistry and continue her education at the University of Tennessee. The Lady Jackets narrowly missed the playoffs this year, but Bell thinks the team is prepared for the future.
“I think they will develop more physically and mentally because they have the talent, they just need to put it together,� Bell said. “Some of the older girls will have to become the leaders of team and lead them to more victories.� Coach Mimi Milling says Bell contributes to the team in more than one way. “She’s a leader emotionally and is one of the best defensive players we have,� Milling said. “She makes plays that are impossible look easy.� Bell said determination meant a lot in her development. “Over the years, even though we haven’t had a winning program, it has made me determined to play harder and made me strive to make our program the best it can be,� Bell said. “In this game, you have to have heart.�
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Mitchell to rebuild Jacket football here about putting more golden footballs in that trophy case.� When Stan Miller was With an impressive renamed athletic director ear- cord and reputation, Milllier this spring, he immedi- er’s nomination of Mitchately received his first task ell was quickly approved at as AD: Name a new head the March 22 school board football coach. meeting. With the assistance of a Upon being named screening committee, Mill- Starkville High’s new head er narrowed the applicants coach, Mitchell had much from 27 down to eight. to say regarding his plans From those top eight po- and hopes for the team. tential head coaches, Miller “We’re going to play with chose Jamie Mitchell as his energy, passion and pride,� nominee for the position. Mitchell said. “Are we go“He’s taken programs ing to be perfect? Absothat are down and turned lutely not. But we’re going them around,� Miller said. to break our necks trying “This man, at the last high to get there. All I can ask school he was at, got 36 of is that [the community] be his former players placed supportive of our program in colleges.� and our players.� Mitchell has spent the past The last few seasons four seasons as head coach have been rough for Yelfor Itawamba Agricultur- low Jacket fans. al High T w o School. years ago In those the Jackets “ I’m not here four seamissed the sons, he playoffs about winning has a 40entirely, and 10 record, seasons. I’m not last season attesting they lost in to his ex- here about district the openceptional round championships. ing coaching at Madison I’m here about Central. abilities. Last seaH e a d son alone putting more gold- coach Bill his team en footballs in that Lee anfinished nounced trophy case.� 13-1, and his retirereached ment earlier -Jamie Mitchell the class this year. 4A state Mitchell finals. hopes to turn things around “This isn’t about where quickly, though he’s still in I’ve been, this is about the process of evaluating SHS,� Miller said. “I’m not his team’s talent. here about winning sea“With the limited time I’ve sons. I’m not here about had to look at everything, I district championships. I’m think we’ve got some good By Collin Whitten Asst. Editor
Above: Supt. Judy Couey and athletic director Stan Miller, joined Mitchell, (above and right) in speaking to media in Mitchell’s introductory press conference. Photos by Ruth Brown
young talent coming back,� Mitchell said. But not enough talent. Mitchell is looking for some hidden gems in the current student population. “I’m hoping I can get some of the older players to buy in,� Mitchell said. “But my first job is going to be to get out there in that hallway and recruit. I know there are some players who are not involved with the football program who need to be there. “I’ve got to beat the bushes out here, and I’ve got to get our other coaches to do the same thing.� Mitchell is already on campus, conducting spring practices.
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Kim, like brother, picks Dibble as Star Teacher By Cullom McCormick Contributing Writer Senior Barunie Kim earned the title of Star Student with an ACT score of 34 and chose Robin Dibble as her Star Teacher. Her brother Michael chose Dibble as his Star Teacher as well when he graduated in 2007. “I didn’t even know that Michael chose Mrs. Dibble,� Kim said. “I know it sounds kind of awful, but I tend to focus less on my siblings’ recognitions and more on my own goals.� Each year, the student with the highest ACT score is named Star Student. The
Star Student then selects a Star Teacher who inspired, helped or has in another way resonated with them. Kim felt Dibble deserved it. “A lot of students tend to pick motivating teachers that they had when they were underclassmen,� Kim said. “I chose Mrs. Dibble because she pushes us seniors even when we are utterly dry of motivation during our very last semester. She’s a wonderful teacher and expects the most of us.� This is the second time Dibble has been chosen as Star Teacher and is flattered by Kim’s selection.
“It’s not often that students recognize teachers,� Dibble said. “If it’s a student who is as accomplished as Barunie, it is an honor.� Kim and Dibble have a good working relationship with each other. “I probably spent more time with her outside the classroom since she represented our school in Poetry out Loud,� Dibble said. Kim worked hard to obtain her score. “I took the ACT more times than I can remember,� Kim sasid. “I’m just glad I’m a senior and I never, ever have to go through those grueling four hours
Senior Barunie Kim selected her AP English teacher Robin Dibble to be her Star Teacher. Photo by Brooke Underwood
ever again. Sorry underclassmen!� With a successful career at SHS behind her, Kim hopes for the best in her future. “My top two [college] choices right now are Uni-
versity of Notre Dame and University of Virginia,� Kim said. “I just hope to go to a well-suited undergraduate school and continue on to another competitive graduate school.�
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Kim, Jinkerson named Merit Finalists Kim described the process as being a waiting game. “I took the PSAT, waited Seniors Barunie Kim for my scores, filled out and Jeffrey Jinkerson have some forms and then waitmoved on to be National ed some more.� Merit Scholarship Finalists, Jinkerson describes his where they will compete feelings saying, “Ninety to be chosen as one of the percent of Semifinalists 8,200 to receive a Merit advance to become FinalScholarship. ists, so after the SAT I did There are three differ- not worry about it much ent types of scholarships until right before the letter awarded: the $2,500 Na- came.� tional Merit Scholarship, It began when Kim and c o r p o r a t e - s p o n s o r e d Jinkerson scored two of the scholarships, and college- 50,000 highest PSAT/NMsponsored scholarships. SQT scores in the country, Scholarship winners are qualifying them for recogchosen based on their abili- nition in the National Merit ties, skills, and accomplish- Scholarship Program. ments. In September, they adBy Brooke Underwood Staff writer
vanced on to be two of 16,000 students selected to be Semifinalists. Kim and Jinkerson will both be graduating in May of this year. Both are 4.0 students and members of the National Honors Society and have been very active during their time at Starkville High. Kim plans on attending either Notre Dame or the University of Virginia. Jinkerson is planning on attending Freed-Hardeman University, a small Christian liberal arts school. He plans to major in Bible and Pre-Engineering in Barunie Kim and Jeffrey Jinkerson have qualified as National Merit Finalists for this school year. Photo by Ruth Brown the fall.
CONGRATULATIONS National Honor Society Inductees
Mercedes Alberson Ashley Albritton Danielle Anderton Nathan Ansel Sheila Arun Kumar Jocelynn Ashford Meria Bell Andrew Bond Caroline Brandon Ashley Brown Morgan Buntin Shanice Campbell Bailey Clark
Rachel Damms Matthew Dunaway Catherine Everett Hannah Fischer Kauther Gaber Maggie George Margaret Giesemann Jessica Gray Rebecca Griffith Savannah Hobart Lauren Hughes Garrett Hunt Peyton Jackson
Caleb Jefferson Jasmine Johnson-Weaver Joseph Jones Ryan Lacy Robert LaFrance Laura Kathryn Lindsay Anthony Lowe Taylor Lowe Robert Maddox Lewis Maynard Thomas McLean
Zachary Mitchell Patrick Morse Rebecca Myles Benjamin Newman Kelly Oliveri Hannah Reynolds Davis Richardson Wheeler Richardson Eboni Suggs Hal Sullivan Charlotte Wang Treasure Ward Brian Xu
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The Last Will and Testaments of the
Graduating Class of 2010 I, Craig Armstead, in sound mind and body bequeath to Donterius Jordan my skills, attitude and mindset for life and football. I, Kelly Bartlett, in sound mind and body bequeath to my Junior girls and SHS baseball boys my unconditional love and best wishes for next year and the many years to come. I, Gavan Lamar Beckum, in sound mind and body bequeath to VerLyncia Leonard and Mariah Henderson my vibrant personality, smile, and “sick� sense of style to be carried in a pleasant, elegant manner. I, McKale Bell, in sound mind and body bequeath to Ronald Grayer, Dennis Thompson and Steven Bell, my smile and my hardworking spirit to Aaliyah Sherrod and Latedra Buckhalter. I, Tamara Shantrice Bell, in sound mind and body bequeath to Alexis Nicole McGee “Precious� my attitude and sense of humor! I, Cody Berryhill, in sound mind and body bequeath to the baseball team and upcoming juniors my love and support. Good luck next year and give it your best at everything you do. I, Shay Bonner, in sound mind and body bequeath to Chelsea-Paige and Brittany Brown my athletic skills and Jacqueline Fair my attitude. I, Latifah Booker, in sound mind and body bequeath to the Powerlifting Team my ability to make it to make it to State and succeed. I, Derrell Boyd, in sound mind and body bequeath to Nigil Randle, my secrets on
how to be the best NBA 2K10 player in Pecan Acres.
bequeath to the boys on the football team my spot on the bench.
I, Meekayll Boyd, in sound mind and body bequeath to SHS my art work and Joy in people’s lives.
I, Chasity Elliott, in sound mind and body bequeath to young students my desire to leave Mississippi.
I, Kimberly Boyd, in sound mind and body bequeath to underclassmen my ability to attract people with my pretty smile.
I, Kasey Davis, in sound mind and body bequeath to Montez Carr my locker.
I, Vinquisha Brooks, in sound mind and body bequeath to Gabriel Kelly and all my juniors my heart, mind, soul and reputation. I, Ashley Brown, in sound mind and body bequeath to Toria Carter, VerLyncia Leonard and Jondia Weatherspoon my individual style, sassiness and cheer spirit. Go Jackets!
I, Tikeya Drake, in sound mind and body bequeath to my sister my ability to succeed. I, Ryan English, in sound mind and body bequeath to the band my spirit, grace, and charm. I, Morgan Fant, in sound mind and body bequeath to Keats Voges-Haupt my swagger.
I, Reginald Campbell, in sound mind and body bequeath to Garret Batson my position at first base and my leadership to next year’s seniors.
I, Nathan Ford, in sound mind and body bequeath to George Bennett my eternal love and luck with the ladies. Do well, young man. Do well.
I, Sade Cannon, in sound mind and body bequeath to my little brothers my sense of humor so that Starvkille High won’t be so boring.
I, Kayla Fuentes, in sound mind and body bequeath to Sheila Arun-Kumar my talents of singing. I love you and know you’ll do great.
I, Wynesia Carson, in sound mind and body bequeath to all junior band members my “yellow bird� freestyle membership.
I, Ebony Tyshekia Lashay Gandy, in sound mind and body bequeath to Ariel Rich my locker and my car parking decal. Love you my lil sister.
I, Cameron Chandler, in sound mind and body bequeath to Nathan Dean my advice about high school: practice, work hard and never give up!
I, Litora S. Gandy, in sound mind and body bequeath to upcoming seniors my intelligence, kindness , spirit and motivation.
I, Stevan Crawford, in sound mind and body bequeath to trombone underclassman my section leadership.
I, Jessieca Green, in sound mind and body bequeath to Leah Gibson my great personality and sassy attitude.
I, Jessie Coffey, in sound mind and body
I, Eric Gregory, in sound mind and body
bequeath to all of my classmates my undying class spirit and my ways of wisdom to the younger members of SHS. I, Kienan Z. Grice, in sound mind and body bequeath to Nathan Ansel my skills in procrastination and hard working laziness. I, Danielle Grimes, in sound mind and body bequeath to Hannah Miller my Catholic Powers! I, Stephen Grado, in sound mind and body bequeath to my theater friends my patience and best wishes. I, Halley Allexis Gunn, in sound mind and body bequeath to Ashley Ne’Cole Gunn my gorgeous looks, sense of humor, cleverness to trick teachers and locker. I, Jessica Harris, in sound mind and body bequeath to my teachers my kindness and attentiveness. I, April Hatchett, in sound mind and body bequeath to Ronagal Outlaw my locker. I, Anthony Hickman, in sound mind and body bequeath to Calvin Young, my words of wisdom: keep pushing your time is coming. I, Audreana Higgins, in sound mind and body bequeath to all SHS students my advice to not play around and get in and get out. I, Matthew G. Howell, in sound mind and body bequeath to Kaci Carmichael my senior parking decal and good luck for next year.
www.shsjacketbuzz.com I, Kierrya Issac, in sound mind and body bequeath toMegean McCarter my locker, my seat in the lunch room and my clarinet. I, Donavan Clinton Jackson, in sound mind and body bequeath to Shawn Henderson my senior locker. I, Jeffrey Jinkerson, in sound mind and body bequeath to Billy Hamilton my spot on the snare line. I, Brandon Lorenzo Johnson, in sound mind and body bequeath to Starkville High School, my thanks and gratitude for showing me a great time during my years here at SHS. I, Brandon M. Johnson, in sound mind and body bequeath to Terrance Bond my backpack. Carry it well. I, Ariel Johnson, in sound mind and body bequeath to Krystal, Stacie, Aqhilyah, Bri, Chilly and Trennis my great study habits, determination to get things done and most of all my great personality! Dream Big! I, Jonathan Blake Johnson, in sound mind and body bequeath to the football team my outstanding athleticism on the field, because they need it for next year. I, Shaquilla LaShelle Johnson, in sound mind and body bequeath to the upcoming seniors my long hours of stressing over college applications as well as the scholarships (but it’s worth it)!
Seniors I, Kyle Lacy, in sound mind and body bequeath to Ryan Lacy my lunchroom relationship with the lunch ladies. I, Morgan Larkins, in sound mind and body bequeath to my band underclassman buddies my awesome-ness, skill, dedication and humbleness. Continue to rock on, guys. I, Resell Larthridge, in sound mind and body bequeath to my family my ability to graduate and attend a four year University, then go on to be successful and make my mother proud. I, Hillary Leonard, in sound mind and body bequeath to Shelby Knox my ability to sing in a spicy, Latina accent. I, Adrian Lewis, in sound mind and body bequeath to Ms. Kinney my body for future use in shows. I, China McClenton, in sound mind and body bequeath to Jondia Weatherspoon, Consuela Fason, Toria Carter, Jessica Gray, VerLyncia Leonard and Jailyn Montgomery my leadership abilities, my craziness, being outspoken and also my love for cheerleading. I’ll miss you guys! I, Mallory McCain, in sound mind and body bequeath to Rachael Damms my “cuddle cubby.� I, Justin McClain, in sound mind and body bequeath to Chelsea Swoopes my senior locker.
I, Amanda Myhre, in sound mind and body bequeath to Drew Luczak my English Lit IV book that is stuck forever in your locker. I, Jonathan Orr, in sound mind and body bequeath to Chasity Swoopes my strong will and desire to graduate. I, Kimberly Pearson, in sound mind and body bequeath to Jondia Weatherspoon my ability to be the person to keep the volleyball team smiling. I, Whitney Peterson, in sound mind and body bequeath to the upcoming seniors my willingness to learn and positive attitude. I, Damion D. Poe (#1 Jacket Fan), in sound mind and body bequeath to Nick Estrada and Cnee Jackson my collection of spirit hats, foam fingers, yellow jacket stickers and cheerful greetings to SHS daily. May you divide them equally and enjoy them. I, Janae Poe, in sound mind and body bequeath Tyberian Stallings my good leadership, unique ways, good habits and good qualities. I, Bernesha Pope, in sound mind and body bequeath to Chasity Swoopes my outstanding leadership skills and loving personality. Take care of my vice-president position. I, DeAnna Rieves, in sound mind and body bequeath to Jondia Weatherspoon, Tyberian Stallings and Alana Martin my silliness and great personality.
I, Tevin Johnson, in sound mind and body bequeath to the band my spirit and grace.
I, Austin McKnight, in sound mind and body bequeath to the football team my athletic abilities.
I, Jacob Glen Jordan, in sound mind and body bequeath to Davis Richardson my choral legacy and to George Bennett I give all my heart.
I, Rixie Mackey, in sound mind and body bequeath to everyone at SHS my blessings and great expectations for everyone waiting to finish High School.
I, Stephanie Kelley, in sound mind and body bequeath to all my teachers, especially Mrs. Buss, my knowledge, responsibility, and honesty. I will miss you all very much!
I, Caitlin Maddox, in sound mind and body bequeath to my Madrigal girls my love, patience and optimism as they continue singing songs about chickens and yellow hair‌Dosays for life!
I, Lillian Converse Kennard, in sound mind and body bequeath to Dessica, Alicia, Ahsia, Higil, Tyberian, and the rest my smarts, humor go lighten up people’s day and Converse to set trends!
I, Zak Mayo, in sound mind and body bequeath to Josh Gilbon my personality, to Allana Jenkins my ability to make people smile and to Davis Richardson because he asked me to.
I, Trenell Scales, in sound mind and body bequeath to Chasity Swoopes my power and charm over fellow students and teachers.
I, Ida Lindsey Knox, in sound mind and body bequeath to Laura Kathryn Lindsay my ability to say “No.�
I, Sam Moore, in sound mind and body bequeath to the Girls’ Powerlifting Team my Incredible Hulk strength.
I, Chris Sellars, in sound mind and body bequeath to Nick Sellers my monstrously, excessively, out of all
I, Dalvin Robertson, in sound mind and body bequeath to my sister Camilon Davis my senior research paper. I, Justin Rogers, in sound mind and body bequeath to my fellow nerds my smarts and quick learning abilities. I, Fanecia Saulsberry, in sound mind and body bequeath to the Varsity cheer squad my cheer skills and dance style and capability to learn quickly and have fun.
t 1BHF proportion, fantastic good grades. I, Erica Simmons, in sound mind and body bequeath to Railey Stewart my ability to be Mrs. Buss’ most favoritest student in the whole wide world. I, Ingrid T’Keyah Spencer, in sound mind and body bequeath to Langston Spencer my talents to succeed further in every subject. Never stop and strive for the best. I, Tacara Staples, in sound mind and body bequeath to Gabriel Jordan my locker. I, Ashley Sudduth, in sound mind and body bequeath to Shakia Owens, Jada Jordan, Iesha Ware, Robsimin Ware and Jacqueline Fair my sense of humor, locker, attitude, absentees and discipline report. I, Chad Thompson, in sound mind and body bequeath to Lammi Micha my white boy swagger. I, Chris Townsel, in sound mind and body bequeath to Eddie Brown my great hands and route running. I, Cheyenne Underwood, in sound mind and body bequeath to Caroline Brandon my ability to put up with and neighborly kindness towards Wesley Montgomery. I, Emmanuel Ware, in sound mind and body bequeath to Dennis Thompson, Dennis Ware and Chris Harris my boys, family and friends. Be leaders and keep your heads up at all times. God loves you and so do I! I, Collin Wesley Whitten, in sound mind and body bequeath to Patrick Fogarty and Hal Sullivan myself to Lauren Hughes, my childlike looks and to Mandy Kinney my stage. Because it is mine. I, Jameshela Williams, in sound mind and body bequeath to the underclassmen my leadership skills and great work ethic. I, Laretha Williams, in sound mind and body bequeath to The Lady Jackets my love dedication and Jacket Pride. Love you girls!! I, DeUndra Yarbrough, in sound mind and body bequeath to my younger sister Rhian Jordan my locker on the ‘senior hall’ and the seat I sit in on first lunch.
Sen10r buzz The
40 years after integration, Starkville High grads major in diversity By Ryan English Staff Writer
Before 1970 Starkville High School was a segregated school. White students attended SHS at what is now known as the Greensboro Center while black students attended Henderson High School, which is now Henderson Intermediate School. After SHS moved to its current location, the school officially integrated in the fall of 1970 and graduated its first integrated class in 1971. Three teachers: Robert Bishop, Danny Carlisle, and Cleveland Hudson, were among that first integrated class. JROTC director Sgt. Major Bishop recalls the process somewhat fondly. “There were not many race issues coming to Starkville High from Ward Stewart,”
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Bishop said. “The difference grated, and it was not sponwas getting better class elec- sored by the high school,” Hudson said. “The difference tives and opportunities.” Bishop remembers being was trying to make friends a performer during his high with the white [students] and tearing down stereotypes and school days. the preju“My most Hudmemorable “I feel that we dice.,” son said. moment Coach was winning made a lot of Hudson the first integrated talprogress. We still remembers playing ent show at prosper and football for Starkville the Yellow High by we are getting Jackets and singing and an equal some of dancing to a those first Temptations opportunity.” integ rated song,” he pep rallies. said. He deR e t i r i n g - Jami Williams, Class of 2010 cided to track and come back football coach Cleveland Hudson attended to Starkville High School to SHS during its first year of in- coach football and track, and tegration and remembers the teach comprehensive health. Danny Carlisle is also a issues that came with it. “The prom was not inte- 1971 SHS graduate, and has
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Seniors Quint Pannell and Miranda Barnes look at a 1971 yearbook with ‘71 graduate coach Cleveland Hudson. Photo by Ruth Brown
become a legend at SHS as both a baseball and football coach. “As far as people-wise, just keeping the groups, there wasn’t any difference,” Carlisle said. “There weren’t as many fights as there are now. My most memorable moment was meeting new friends and making lifelong friends. One of them is Coach Hudson.” They broke down barriers for Starkville and helped SHS become what it is now. The students in Starkville today have friends from a variety of different races and religions, and integration seems like something that has just always been. And even though not all the
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racial issues have been broken down completely, SHS has a diverse student body that can be proud of the cultures they share. “I feel that we made a lot of progress,” senior Jami Williams said. “We prosper, and we are getting an equal opportunity such as participating in the same sports and activities.” “We all get along pretty good!” Senior Quint Pannell said. “Well, at least in class we get along well. I think that’s the main difference.” Just like the three graduates of 1970, today’s students continue to form strong relationships regardless of racial backgrounds.
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