2
Kristi Shea Browning is the Valedictorian at Pleasant Valley High School. She is the daughter of David and Tammy Browning. Please see page 3B.
The Jacksonville News The Jacksonville News
presents
2010
A glimpse into the future
JCA Graduation
May 25, 2010 7 p.m. Jacksonville Christian Academy
+
WPHS Graduation
May 27, 2010 7 p.m. White Plains High School Stadium
PVHS Graduation
May 27, 2010 7 p.m. Pleasant Valley Raider Stadium
Photos by Anita Kilgore • Layout and Design by Andrea Howard
JHS Graduation
May 28, 2010 8 p.m. Golden Eagle Stadium
+
2B • Tuesday, May 25, 2010
The Jacksonville News
Pleasant Valley High School Pleasant Valley High School Class of 2010 • Class of 2010 • Class of 2010 Class of 2010
Wyatt Lon Anthony
Kelli Danielle Bailey
Rebekah Erin Birchfield
Tiffany Michelle Brooks
Lance Edwin Brown
Kristi Shea Browning
Michael Ross Buchanan
Kristina Gayle Butler
Tonja Juanita Catchings
Justin Boyd Civitello
Erin Caitlin Feiner
Coran Shane Ferguson
Brian Keith Fortenberry
Geoffrey Lee Garrett
Class of 2010 Amber Leigh Coppock
Kyle Alexander Cser
Joshua Philip Dumont
Brittany Nicole Dunagan
Clinton Louis Evans
Joseph Neill Faucett
Jessica Lee Glass
Whitney Dawn Glass
Chelsea Leigh Green
Nathan Thomas Greer
Colton Ryan Griffith
Michael Richard Hall, Jr.
Billie Jo Hoover
Stephen Cary Hurst
Anna Michelle Jennings
Jessica Ann Johnson
Kayla Brooke Jones
Kayla Grace Knepp
Jeremy Kyle Lackey
Michael David Lockridge
Marc Charles Marrow
Lela Brooke McCurdy
Ashley Nicole Metcalfe
Cameron Cryle Murray
Ethan Odale Nasworthy
Cody Lamar Phillips
Kendal Zettie Sexton
Corey Lee Shackelford
Morgan LeeAnne Sides
Jason Lee Smith
Class of 2010 Hillarie Whitney Poole
Jeffery Blake Porter
Morgan Brittany Raven
Ashley Elizabeth Stovall
Bridget Ann Taylor
Michelle Leigh Thomas
Kimberly Diana Wells
Jennifer Lynn White
Heather Michele Winn
Angela Brittany Nicole Runyan
Matthew Kenneth Tippens
Jessica Linn Woodard
Congratulations,
Seniors!!
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The best is yet to come...
Edward’s GROCERY
Breanna Nicole Sanford
Maranda Lynn Tisdale
Kiona Michelle Turner
Cody Jacob Walden
Joshua Todd Walker
Rachel Lauren Ward
Christian Hunter Webb
Rachel Anne Conklin
Katie Marie George
Joshua Paul Johnson
David Michael Pitts
Amanda Chanel Steed
Whitney Nichole Weiser
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Tuesday, May 25, 2010 • 3B
The Jacksonville News
Senior spotlight
Glass has served as leader in community
70 will cross stage on May 27
LORI TIPPETS News Staff Writer
Sitting down with Pleasant Valley’s graduating senior Jessica Glass it doesn’t take one long to figure out why she was chosen as a Spotlight Student. Glass instantly makes one feel comfortable with her warm and genuine smile and her ability to make one feel at ease. Glass lettered for four years in volleyball, basketball and softball. She was a member of SADD, Junior Beta and the Spanish Club. The graduating senior is the daughter of Donny and Gina Glass. Glass says that her love of sports has helped her through a lot of things, and has helped her to become a leader. “I try to lead by example,” says Glass, “I’m not vocal. “Being focused on team sports has made me very disciplined. If I don’t feel like giving it my all that day, I feel like I have to for my team. I think we all (seniors) try really hard in everything. They don’t give up on anything and they keep pushing through it. We have a lot of leaders.” Senior sponsor Cerilla Roe would be quick to tell you that one of those leaders of the senior class is definitely Glass. “Jessica has a wonderful personality. She enjoys people, she cares, and she is very sincere. She just cares about people so much.” Glass has been showing that compassion for people since a very early age. A member of the First Baptist Church of Williams, Glass has been going to Passport every summer since she was in the seventh grade. Passport does mission projects each summer. Glass remembers that her very first experience with Passport
Jessica Glass
was very meaningful. “We got in a circle and we told what we were going to bring back from the trip,” recalls Glass. “It was a very amazing experience.” Glass has done projects like painting houses, cleaning up a youth building at a church, cleaning up yards and taking care of children. The whole experience has made a loving and caring person even more compassionate. Glass plans on attending JSU where she plans on majoring either in nursing or elementary education. Recently, after dissecting a cat in anatomy and finding that her stomach could take it, Glass figured that she was still ok to give nursing a try. However, when she was a little girl Glass would play in her room pretending that she was a teacher. That has brought back many wonderful memories and may be something she wants to pursue. Other reasons may lead her towards a teaching career as well. “The other day I saw this woman who goes to our church, a teacher in Jacksonville. Her name is Patsy Boozer. Two little boys came running up to her and I wanted to be like that. I want kids to run up to me and hug me,” said Glass. No matter what field Glass decides to go into, one can be sure that the world will be a better place because of her smile, her warmth, and her compassion.
Senior spotlight
Faucett knows the value of hard work LORI TIPPETS News Staff Writer
Joseph Faucett, chosen to be a Spotlight Student for Pleasant Valley High School, epitomizes the spirit of the 2010 senior class. Faucett is a fighter, someone who knows the value of hard work and never gives up. As a football player, Faucett saw teams before him struggle as they tried to break the cycle of two winless seasons. He saw what it took to be successful. “Sports have prepared me to never give up, to never quit and to always fight through everything,” says Faucett. “Our sophomore and junior years we went to the playoffs. We had some of the best leadership. We had great senior leaders that carried the team on their shoulders.” Senior sponsor Cerilla Roe says Faucett, “is a very intense person, especially in athletics. He is very intelligent and really wants to do well in everything he does. “Sometimes he hangs back and observes and then he goes right on in and does what is needed. “He can be very surprising and very animated in front of other people. He is just a good, good person. He is positive, fun, energetic and intelligent.” The son of John and Anne
PVHS top ten from left: Kristi Shea Browning, valedictorian, Corey Lee Shackelford, salutatorian, Morgan Brittany Raven, historian, Stephen Cary Hurst, Whitney Nichole Weiser, Jeffery Blake Porter, Geoffrey Lee Gareett, Joshua Todd Walker, and Hillarie Whitney Poole. Not pictured: Chelsea Leigh Green. LORI TIPPETS News Staff Writer
Pleasant Valley High School will graduate 70 seniors on Thursday, May 27. The graduation ceremony will take place at 7 p.m. at Pleasant Valley Raider Stadium. The 2010 graduating class is marked by very different individuals who all come together as a group whether it is for purposes of enjoying each other’s company or accomplishing a task. Senior sponsor, Cerilla Roe, says that, “even though they are all very individual, when it comes time to do something as a group they are cohesive and very cooperative with one another. They have a maturity element when they work together as a group which is very unusual for a senior class but is a very positive aspect.” The senior class has been successful with 23 of the members receiving college scholarships. Leading this group of seniors is class valedictorian, Kristi Browning. Browning sports a long list of achievements to include the Algebra II with Trig Award, Bryant Jordan school representative, Wendy’s Heisman School finalist, George Smith’s Top Teen of the Week, Exchange Club Student of the Month and National Guard Scholar Athlete Award. Browning, the Senior Class president, has lettered for three years as a varsity cheerleader where she has served as captain of the squad, has been on the Student Council, Math Team FCCLA, FBLA, Key Club, SADD, Diamond Dolls, Senior Beta and Spanish Club. Kristi, the daughter of David and Tammy Browning is a member of Hillcrest Baptist Church. Browning has received the Jacksonville State Faculty Scholarship and the Pleasant Valley PTO scholarship. She plans on attending JSU to pursue a degree in Actuarial Science or pharmacy. Browning feels that the faculty
From left: Corey Lee Shackelford, salutatorian, Kristi Shea Browning, valedictorian and Morgan Brittany Raven, historian.
at Pleasant Valley has prepared her well for what she will face in college. Being at a small school, Browning says the senior class is really close. “Our school is so small we don’t just know the names of the other students but we know about them. We are just really close and that is something special.” Class salutatorian, Corey Shackelford, feels that the senior class has put a lot of effort into the things that they have done. “We care about our future and will do anything we can to reach our goals,” said Shackelford. “That sets us apart from other senior classes; our whole class is like that.” Shackelford, who played football, basketball and baseball at Pleasant Valley said that Coach Jeff Davis showed the players that they could win at football, despite having had two winless seasons, if they put enough effort into it. “He (Davis) showed us that we could accomplish anything we want. He instilled us with confidence. With extra effort and hard work they sky is the limit to what we can accomplish,” said Shackelford of the lesson the seniors have learned. Corey, the son of Dean and Trina Shackelford, has already accomplished much, winning the 10th grade Physical Science Award, the 10th grade English Award, the 9th-
11th grade History Awards, Capstone Leadership Academy and Youth Leadership of Calhoun County. Shackelford has been Senior Beta Club President, Scholar Bowl captain, an event that the Raiders have won the county championship four straight times, and Envirobowl captain. Shackleford attends Pine Grove Congregational Holiness Church. The salutatorian will attend Auburn University in the fall where he has been awarded the Founders Scholarship, Auburn’s College of Science and Mathematics Scholarship and Legacy’s 2010 Envirobowl Scholarship. Morgan Raven will graduate as the class Historian. Morgan is the daughter of Al and Tonyia Raven and attends Pleasant Valley Baptist Church. Raven has been honored by being on the National Honor Roll, Who’s Who Among America’s High School Students, Jacksonville State Emerging Leaders, Congressional Leaders of America, has won the Chemistry Award, Algebra I Award, and Spanish Award. Raven has been a member of FCCLA, SADD, Key Club, Spanish Club, Junior Beta Club, Senior Beta Club, and the Math Team. Attending JSU in the fall, Raven is currently undecided on a major although she is interested in Forensics Investigation, Pharmacy and Elementary Education. Raven has been very impressed with the other members of the senior class. “We all get along and have a lot of fun together,” says Raven. “We don’t have groups, when we go somewhere we try to invite everybody.” While Raven says that her parents have been the most influential in preparing her for college, she is quick to point out that the faculty of Pleasant Valley has been an invaluable asset. “The teachers will come early or stay late helping us,” says Raven. “Our faculty has been a lot of help.”
Scholarship recipents Joseph Faucett
Faucett, Joseph is the third of seven children, a fact that has more than likely helped him deal with many adversities that have come along in school. “There is always some chaos going on at home. We have learned to settle problems between us.” Faucett feels that this has helped him settle problems on the field as well. Attending Gadsden State Community College in the fall, Faucett plans on being a personal trainer. He feels that Pleasant Valley has prepared him for the rigors of college life, especially science, chemistry and physics teacher Randy Jackson. “He is an excellent teacher,” says Faucett. “He has challenging classes that taught me that I really have to try and to study.” With his leadership and the skills that he has developed while at Pleasant Valley, Faucett should excel at the college level as well.
200 Coffee Street Jacksonville, AL Phone 256.435.1966 Fax 256.782.0775
We are proud of you, Graduates. Hours:
Mon.-Fri. 7am-6pm Sat: 7am-5pm
PVHS scholarship recipients are: Wyatt Anthony, Kristi Browning, Rachel Conklin, Clint Evans, Joseph Faucett, Brian Fortenberry, Geoffrey Garrett, Katie George, Whitney Glass, Chelsea Green, Jessica Johnson, Marc Marrow, Brooke McCurdy, Ashley Metcalfe, Cody Phillips, Hillarie Poole, Blake Porter, Morgan Raven, Brandi Scott, Corey Shackelford, Josh Walker, Whitney Weiser, and Jessica Woodard.
Congratulations, Class of 2010 As your State Farm Agent, I am proud to support your commitment to education excellence. Wishing you the best with your future endeavors. MIKE DOUGLAS, AGENT 30 Years of Service, Chairman’s Circle PROVIDING INSURANCE AND FINANCIAL SERVICES 408 Pelham Rd. N, Jacksonville, AL 36265 Ph. (256)435-6712 Fax (256)435-8791 102 Memorial Drive, Piedmont, AL 36272 Ph. (256)447-8254 Fax (256)447-8257 www.mikedouglas.biz
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Class Officers
Class officers are, Kendal Sexton, vice president, kneeling left, Kristi Browning, president, kneeling right. Back row, from left, Lela McCurdy, treasurer and Michelle Thomas, secratary.
4B • Tuesday, May 25, 2010
The Jacksonville News
Jacksonville High School Jacksonville High School Class of 2010 • Class of 2010 • Class of 2010 • Class of 2010
Kenneth Luther Meagan Burton, Jr. Elizabeth Cabrer
Abdallah Khaled Al-Meshal
Morgan Louis Bellin
Susan Grace Catrett
Shelby Raelyn Coffman
Victoria Eden Coger
Leroy Jervon Cowden
Zachary John Cruse
Tyler Dale Cunningham
Patrick Micheal William Daugherty
Torsten Alexander Dryden
Travis Jerome Dunn, Jr.
Landon Taylor East
Deonte’ Lamon Elston
Jackson Wiley Riche Chenelle Pearson George
Tavoris Quentrez Hall
Jordan Alexandra Harper
Micah Kevyon Morgan Ashton Maxwell Drummond
Nicholas Anthony Walker Bethea Turner Bowden
Colby Blain Bryant
Yaasameen Safaa Al-Hamdani
DeVakeius Gercarr Gilbert
Eleanor Kinzie Godbey
James Hunter Green
Maci Olivia Hall
Kattie Michelle Jackson
Kayla Simone Keith
Samantha Lynn Kelly
Laura Kate Koss
Elisabeth Ann Mayes
Montia Delaine Royster
Sasha Rae McCurry
Cassie Marie McGowan
Devonte’ Lamar Davis
Jesse Lee Campbell
Katherine Taylor Casey
Destiny Furman Darnell DeNay Deramus DeArman
Micah James Gaines
Tristan Cryle Garmon
Kamie Noel Harrell
Hillary Marie Henderson
Kiara Breona Holifield
Lauren JoAnne Ingram
Heather Amber Samuel Nicole Malachi Sawyer Denise Leck
Stefanie Marie Russell
Brandon Lee Mahieu
Ethan Brett Maske
Danielle Elizabeth Maxwell
Caroline Morgan Neisler
Andrew Knox Newell
Trevor Allen David O’Day
Joshua Caleb Morrison
"Our strong bond shall ne'er be broken, formed at Jacksonville High School for surpassing wealth unspoken sealed by friendships tie. High school days at best are passing, gliding swiftly by, let us pledge in word and deed our love for Jacksonville High. Amicci usque ad aras deep graven on each heart, shall be found unwavering true when we from school shall part."
Katelynn Taylor Lenelle Leigh Romines Palmer
Not pictured: Shantel Nichelah Christian, Caleb Micah Donner, Colby Booth Donner, Victoria Morgan Forrester, Ryan Murphy Fussner, Mark David Hunter, Kelly Robert Lewis, Nichelle Marie Lopez, Priscilla Brittney McCurdy, Bethany Denae Parish, Anthony Michael Pruitt, Marisa Monae Rimpsey, Javion Ottis-Denzel Siders, KeAndrea Shanea Slaton, Brittany Nicole Williams, DeAundre’ Lamone Williams and Joshua Trey Wyatt.
Class of 2010! Continue to Strive for Excellence! Dr. Eric Mackey and the Jacksonville City Board of Education Lori Tippets, President Thomas Buzan Jr. , Kelley Haynes Caroline Allen Ross, Phillip Pearson
The Jacksonville News
Jacksonville High School Jacksonville High School
Tuesday, May 25, 2010 • 5B
Class of 2010 • Class of 2010 • Class of 2010 • Class of 2010
Zachary Brittany James Shadoan Nicole Sheets
Jefferson Logan Shelton
Megan Clancy Madison Rachelle Snider Spears
Alison Ray Speer
William Christopher Todd
Nicholas William Quinn
Robert Allen Quinn, Jr.
We Fed
Halimeh Mohammed Shubair
Charles Raven Gabrielle William Speer Spence
Alina Anne Wilhelm
Jean Montgomery Slaght
William Andrew Meghan Strickland Danielle Stein
Lucy McConnell Williams
Jacob Neal Eldemire Smith
Joshua Cody Smith
Adam Scott Taylor
Rainey Joseph Anthony Briana Taylor Thompson
Jordan Alexander Vanderbleek
Kirsten Alexandrea Vaughn
Kayla Shanelle Ware
Douglas Kyle Warmack
Erika Dawn Warner
Stephen Ross Waters
Gregory Noah Whaley
Darius James Redwine
Shelby Dawn Reel
Katelyn Grace Smith
William James Thompson
Jack Boozer Whaley
Joshua Ryan Willis
Randy Wayne Wood, Jr.
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1204 Church Ave SE, Jacksonville 435-5741 1731 Noble St, Anniston 237-2113 Hwy 431 N Bypass, Roanoke 863-8902 Indian Village Plaza, Ohatchee 892-7129
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6B • Tuesday, May 25, 2010
The Jacksonville News
JHS honors diploma
These students are awarded the Honor Medallion for maintaining a 90 or higher Core GPA while completing courses for the Advanced Diploma with Academic Honors: Morgan Bellin, Tyler Cunningham, Eleanor Godbey, James Green, Hillary Henderson, Mark Hunter, Lauren Ingram, Caroline Neisler, Taylor Palmer, Jackson Pearson, Brittany Sheets, Megan Snider, Alison Speer, Joseph Thompson and Alina Wilhelm.
Jacksonville High to graduate 117 Top of the class
LORI TIPPETS News Staff Writer
On Friday, May 28, 117 members of the Jacksonville High School Class of 2010 will march into Jacksonville’s Golden Eagle Stadium to receive their diplomas. The graduation is set to take place at 8 p.m. More than just members of the graduating class, these 117 students are friends, bound together by their sense of loyalty to each other, by their determination to succeed and by their sense of humor. Senior class faculty sponsor, Dr. Gene Rhodes, describes this graduating class as being, “extremely polite.” “They work hard and they’re all trying to do what they can,” said Rhodes of the seniors. “They have been known to play pranks on each other, all out of good fun, and they also play pranks on their teachers. “These are good folks who come from good families. These are the type of individuals that make America what it should be.” Whether it has been in academics or in athletics, this class has known success. Of the graduating class, 38 have received scholarships totaling just under $1.9 million. Leading the class onto the field will be valedictorian Eleanor Godbey. The top ranked student epitomizes the success and determination of the senior class. Eleanor, daughter of Jess and Caroline Godbey, has received honors in Mu Alpha Theta, the National Honor Society, has received the Young Citizen
The Jacksonville High School Senior Class top two for the 2009-10 school year are from left: Eleanor Godbey, valedictorian and Tyler Cunningham, salutatorian.
Award and the JHS Academic Award. Godbey has participated in varsity tennis, Key Club and has been editor of the school newspaper, The Eagle’s Scream. In 2008 Godbey was a delegate to the Alabama Youth Leadership Program. Godbey is a member of St. Luke’s Episcopal Church. In her “spare time” she enjoys kitting, community volunteer work, hiking and writing. Godbey has received the College Scholar Award and will be attending the College of Wooster in the fall where she plans on majoring in the humanities. A class leader, Godbey has been very impressed with her fellow classmates. “I really like everyone in my senior class,” admits Godbey, “They
A list of scholarship recipients will be in next weeks issue of The Jacksonville News
are all really nice. “There is no bullying; everyone just talks to everyone else. It’s really comfortable. Everyone is just fun to hang out with.” That camaraderie is something that Godbey feels will help her at college. Talking with her classmates between classes has helped with her academics. “It makes it easier to learn if you can talk to other people,” said Godbey. Working on the school newspaper was something that Godbey enjoyed and was able to feel a sense of accomplishment from. “The newspaper took a big chunk of time, but it was fun,” said Godbey. “It’s exciting to put something out and when it’s done its really rewarding.” As for advice that she would leave for the younger students
Godbey says, “Don’t procrastinate! Be open, be willing to go with the flow and don’t be so strict with your plans.” Also walking at the front of the class as salutatorian will be Tyler Cunningham. The son of David and Brenda Cunningham, Tyler has been involved with Key Club, J Club, Mu Alpha Theta and the National Honors Society. Cunningham will be attending Itawamba Community College in Fulton, Mississippi, on a soccer scholarship where he plans on majoring in engineering. A member of the soccer team since the eighth grade, Cunningham has served as captain for the last two years and took his team to the state finals last year and the semifinals this year. Cunningham has also been very impressed with the closeness of his graduating class. “If you look at most classes they have cliques but our grade gets along really well. We don’t fight and that makes us unique.” Cunningham gives tribute to his family for his success in school. “My mom has a lot of common sense and helps me stay on track. My dad is real smart and he knows a lot of things. He helps me with papers and with my homework.” Jacksonville’s salutatorian says that he will be taking a lot of things with him that he has acquired in his high school years. “I will take all the experiences I’ve had, all the work I’ve had to put in, all the hours and all the lessons I’ve learned.”
Eagles since Kindergarten
View the 2010 Graduation section online at www.jaxnews.com Congratulations, Class of 2010 As your State Farm Agent, I am proud to support your commitment to education excellence. Wishing you the best with your future endeavors.
Class Officers
MIKE DOUGLAS, AGENT 30 Years of Service, Chairman’s Circle PROVIDING INSURANCE AND FINANCIAL SERVICES 408 Pelham Rd. N, Jacksonville, AL 36265 Ph. (256)435-6712 Fax (256)435-8791 102 Memorial Drive, Piedmont, AL 36272 Ph. (256)447-8254 Fax (256)447-8257 www.mikedouglas.biz
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From left: Logan Shelton, president, Hillary Henderson, vice president and Jackson Pearson, secretary.
Pearson all around leader Senior spotlight LORI TIPPETS News Staff Writer
Quiet, unassuming, humble, determined and focused are just some of the words that can be used in describing Jacksonville High School’s Jackson Pearson, chosen as this year’s spotlight student for the Golden Eagles. Pearson is not only a well-rounded student, but a well-rounded individual who has used all the experiences he has had not only in school but in life to mold him into the person that he is. Pearson has served this year as Senior Class secretary and has been a member of the Student Council. He has also been involved in Key Club, Focus Group and the Spanish and Drama clubs. Pearson has also been inducted in the junior and senior National Honor Society. In sports, Pearson was a member of both the football and soccer teams where he has been named All-County for both of the teams. In addition, Pearson was named Alabama 810 Player of the Week three times and received the permanent captain award for football. He was also named captain of the soccer team. Pearson will be attending Birmingham Southern College where he has signed a scholarship to play football. At Birmingham Southern, he has been awarded the Trustee Scholarship and Methodist Scholarship. While at Birmingham Southern, Pearson plans on majoring in secondary education and hopes to teach and coach in the future. Jackson is the son of Sue and Jackson Pearson Phillip Pearson. A member of the First United Methodist Church, Pearson has served with his church on many mission trips, experiences that have further helped shape his character. “The mission trips were very humbling,” says Pearson. “When you go to help it’s always in bad situations so it keeps you grounded and helps you appreciate everything.” One such trip that Pearson remembers is a trip made to a city close to Mobile. “We helped remodel a house for an old lady,” remembers Pearson. “It was in such bad condition that it was shocking. It made me appreciate everything we have a lot more.” A lot of the traits that Pearson has have been established in his home. For Pearson, family comes first. “Our family is always together,” says Pearson. “We try to eat dinner together. We like to garden together and we all work in the yard together. “We also like to do outdoor things, like fishing. We play basketball with my dad and watch movies. We spend a lot of time together.” His faith is also very important to Pearson and the morals that have been instilled because of his faith. Pearson has also taken the time each week to be involved with the Fellowship of Christian Athletes, meeting once a week for breakfast and prayer. When he can, Pearson also enjoys hanging out with his friends and enjoys fishing whenever he gets the opportunity. Very quiet, Pearson is the kind of student that best leads by example. As a member of the football team, he was able to enjoy the first playoff season that Jacksonville has had in ten years, but as with everything, it came as a result of hard work and a change in attitude, something that this senior class has exemplified. “As we got older we knew what we wanted to do,” said Pearson of his teammates. “We had to depend on ourselves instead of other people, we took it upon ourselves to push everyone at practice and it showed in our records.” The senior class of 2010 has seen athletic success in volleyball, football, basketball and baseball where each of these teams has made it to the playoffs this year. “We are all very driven,” says Pearson of his class. “A good portion of the class plays sports and we have the same kind of mindset. We all push each other on the practice field or in the classroom.” Graduating third in his class, Pearson knows the value of hard work in the classroom as well as on the field. “When the going gets tough, like summer workouts in football, you have to keep going; you have to push yourself in the classroom or in sports. You never know where you are going to end up.” Pearson feels that it’s always important to do what is asked of you, whether you really want to do it or not. He also feels that you “should always try to be involved in as much as you can. It’s always a rewarding experience. Playing sports can teach you a lot about yourself and life in general.” Pearson displays traits that aren’t always evident in young people his age. His compassion, his dedication, his high moral standards and determination are going to take him far in his future endeavors.
Tuesday, May 25, 2010 • 7B
The Jacksonville News
Jacksonville Christian Academy Jacksonville Christian Academy Class of 2010 • Class of 2010 • Class of 2010 • Class of 2010
Holly James Valedictorian
Hunter Gross Salutatorian
Payton Green Historian
Joshua Jones
Trent Kyner
Jacob Bollinger
Lacey Payne
Matthew Christensen
Bethany Bridges
Rachel Grimes
Garrett Poland
Hayley Payton
John Robinson
16 seniors to walk at JCA graduation EDDIE BURKHALTER News Staff Writer
For the sixteen students in the graduating class at Jacksonville Christian Academy, May 25 will be a day to celebrate the hard work they have put in, and to look forward to what may come in the days and years ahead. Milestones as big as high school graduations do not come along very often, and time tends to speed up exponentially afterwards so for these 16 graduates the chance to savor their accomplishments and reflect on their time together is well deserved. For Valedictorian Holly James graduation day means she will be one step closer to seeing her dream of becoming a lawyer come true. James knows very well how to hit the books. She has been on the A honor roll since kindergarten and has held the highest school-wide GPA for the last five years. The homecoming queen and SGA Vice President has her eyes set on a career in law, and to help pay for all of that schooling her tenacity and drive has earned her a full four year scholarship to Jacksonville State University, and four year, half-tuition scholarships for both Auburn University and the University of Alabama. Not a bad thing to have to make choices like those. James said she has decided to stay close to home and attend JSU for 2 years, then transfer to Vanderbilt to earn her law degree. A member of Mt. Zion Baptist Church, James is as at home in the outdoors as she is in the library. She loves to head out into the mud for a little mud-riding, and she enjoys
playing whiffle ball and going swimming. Her peers think pretty highly of her as well. James was voted Miss JCA and most likely to succeed. She was also chosen as a senior class representative. Whether on the court or with a pen in hand, this year’s Salutatorian William Hunter Gross LEFT PHOTO: Valedictorian Holly James. RIGHT is one very capable PHOTO: Salutatorian William Hunter Gross and young man. Gross historian Payton Tyler. has a real passion and 2009, playing basketball, basefor sports and has carried that pas- ball and coaching elementary basketsion into helping teach the game to a ball in 2009. younger generation as a coach for the And Green is a craftsman, manipuelementary basketball team. lating metal as a machinist at BranGross played varsity basketball non Machine Shop in Jacksonville. and is very active in the Saks Bap- A member of Ohatchee Church of tist Church Youth Group. A member Christ, the young Harley Davidson of the National Honor Society, Gross rider will be heading to Gadsden shows he can flex some intellectual State Community College before muscle as well. His team came in transferring to JSU. first in the Jacksonville State UniverIt would be a mistake to say that sity Writer’s Bowl. these three students have brighter fuBut for Gross, a life in sports is the tures than the rest of the graduating name of the game. He has his sights class of 2010. set on becoming an athletic trainer 13 others will join James, Gross and plans on attending the University and Green as the JCA’s graduating of Alabama after graduation. class of 2010. The graduation cerThere aren’t many young men with emony will be held at JCA May 25th the varied abilities of Payton Tyler at 7 p.m. Green, this year’s Historian at JCA. JCA has a reputation for producing Green is a scholar, having made the students that excel, both in and out of A honor roll for 2 years and the AB the classroom, and we can all be sure honor roll for 2 years. that amazing things are in store for He is an athlete, garnering a spot on the 2010 graduates of Jacksonville the All County football team in 2008 Christian Academy.
Mr. & Miss JCA
Class Officers Garrett Poland, pres., in front, vice-pres. Holly James, not pictured, Lacey Payne, chapel, top, Matt Christensen, treasurer,middle right, Adam Harmon, 12th grade representative, middle left.
Holly James and John Robinson
Congratulations, Class of 2010
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Senior spotlight
Future looks bright for JCA grad Bridges DAVID JENNINGS News Staff Writer
You could call Jacksonville Christian Academy senior Bethany Bridges is a young lady that wears many hats. There are many sides to this young lady, making her a well-rounded student who will go far in life. Some know Bridges as the athletic super-star. She has played basketball for four years, volleyball for five years and softball for seven. Besides being on the field, Bridges also displayed team spirit and gymnastic prowess as a cheerleader for the past 13 years. A few might know Bridges from her newest interest, journalism. She has helped put together the school’s annual for the past two years. She has also been know to put together videos of her and her friends. Others know Bridges as a leader. She has lead her cheerleading squad as captain, served the community as the vice president of the school’s 4H Club and worked to improve JCA by working as the secretary for the school’s Student Government Association. Members of the
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Bethany Bridges
Edgewood Congregational Methodist Church also have a unique view of Bridges. They know her has a dedicated and devoted follower who is active in the Youth Ministry, the Celebration Choir and Evelation Ministry’s Drama Team. Ron Bridges, Bethany’s father, said that his daughter loves being so involved. “She is amazing,” said Ron. “When she was young I thought I could put her in a few things it will keep her focus and out of trouble. She loved what she was doing. When it comes to JCA, she loves the school and being so involved.” No matter what hat Bridges is wearing when you meet her, one thing is the same. She puts everything she has into what she ■ See BRIDGES, page 10B
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8B • Tuesday, May 25, 2010
The Jacksonville News
White Plains High School Class of 2010 • Class of 2010 • Class of 2010 • Class of 2010
Jessica Arthur
Jason Ault
Jordyn Avery
LaDawn Bannister
Hannah Brooks
Brandon Batey
Katie Beecham
Jacob Borrelli
Curtis Bowman
Cameron Box
Nikki Buchanan
Tyler Butler
Megan Caraway
Jose Carbajal
Shelby Catoe
Tara Chastain
Lindey Chilton
Alex Christen
Tasha Clapper
Laykin Colgrove
Dakota Coody
Shanea Cromer
Leia Doss
Whitney Easterwood
Hilary Faulkner
Heather Finch
Christy Fry
Morgan Gonshor
Payton Gregg
Marisa Hamby
Patrick Haynes
Leah Hendry
Kayla Hill
Keisha Hockenberry
Tyler Hubbard
Megan Jackson
Caleb King
Ciara Kirk
Samantha Landers
April Levens
Keisha Lewallen
Danielle Livingston
Haley Loveless
Leah Luther
Andy McComb
Maggie McFate
Brandy McKleroy
Holly Medders
Koty Morgan
Alex Morrison
Josh Norton
Kerry Odom
Charity Osowski
Tyler Owen
Robert Parker
Jennifer Peoples
Molly Pettus
Christian Rogers
Andrew Sanford
Brandi Scott
Landon Shoemaker
Jennifer Spoon
Cortney Steadham
Hillary Stephens
Kalyn Story
Kaitlyn Stuart
Kelsey Taylor
Colie Thomas
Breanna Travis
Marley Truett
Kristina Turner
Amber Walker
Wesley Waybright
Ryan Williams
Andrea Wilson
Lauren Wood
Chase Connell
Cody Hardcastle
Jerry Lewallen
Matthew Nelson
Ian Sharum
Caed Turner
Not Pictured: Cole Bannister, Brock Wright, Victor Zamora
Tuesday, May 25, 2010 • 9B
The Jacksonville News
WPHS graduates bright future ahead
Class officers
White Plains High School senior class officers are bottom left, Hillary Stephens, president, Hannah Brooks, vice president. Back row, from left, Amber Walker, secretary and Molly Petus, treasurer.
WPHS top ten from left: Jordyn Avery, valdictorian, Leah Hendry, Jennifer Spoon, Breanna Travis, Koty Morgan, Marley Truett, Kaitlyn Stuart, Katie Beecham, Molly Pettus and Hannah Brooks. DAVID JENNINGS News Staff Writer
The 85 students that make up the senior class of White Plains High School, have a bright future ahead of them. The seniors have received a quarter of a million dollars in scholarship money, and according to WPHS teacher Holley Harmon, more scholarships are still coming. Jordyn Avery will lead her senior class as this year’s valedictorian. A well-rounded individual, Avery not only excels in the classroom, she also sings in the choir and is a member of WPHS’ track and field team. Avery is also a leader when it comes to service. She serves as the president of the Senior Beta Club. Avery did not slow down during her summers while in high school. In 2008, she represented White Plains and Alabama and she traveled the world serving as a People to People Student Ambassador. In 2009, she attended the Alabama Governor’s School, a summer residential enrichment program for academically talented high school seniors. After school, you might be able to catch Avery at Starbucks where she works as a barista. Or, if she were off duty, you would most likely find her doing one of her favorite hobbies: drawing or reading a good book. She is also a member of Westwood Baptist Church. With her great grades, leadership skills and passion for serving others, Jordyn will go far in life. The University of Alabama
at Birmingham agreed, awarding her with the Golden Excellence Scholarship. With that, Avery said she wants to attend UAB and major in biology and minor in chemistry and Spanish. Afterwards, she would like to go on to medical school to become an orthopedic surgeon. WPHS salutatorian Leah Hendry was very studious in her high school career. Her hard work put her name on the A honor roll every year. The accomplishment is even greater when you take into consideration Hendry was taking part in the dual enrollment program and Georgia State University’s Honors Program, where high-achieving and highly motivated students get the resources to excel academically and to prepare for successful professional careers. Hendry took an active role at her school, getting involved with groups like Students Against Destructive Decisions, Future Business Leaders of America and the Beta Club in which she served as an officer for two years. Community service and leadership are two very important aspects of Hendry’s life. During her high school career, she served as a People to People Student Ambassador, a member of the Youth Leadership Calhoun County program and the Alabama Youth Leadership program. Hendry made a splash when she worked as a lifeguard at the Anniston Country Club and at Camp Cottaquilla. Hendry’s hard work has definitely paid off. She has been awarded with the Elk Club’s Most Valuable Student Scholarship,
Top of the class
the Sam Walton Community Scholarship, GSU Honors Scholarship, GSU Campus Atlanta Scholarship and the GSU Auxiliary School Scholarship. Hendry said she plans on attending GSU and later, study abroad. She said she could she herself maybe becoming an Ambassador of the United States one day. Jennifer Spoon rounds up WPHS top three students as this year’s historian. Spoon has achieved much during her short time in high school. She was a member of the SSA All-State Choir, the Youth Leadership of Calhoun County and Girls State, an American Legion From left Leah Hendry, salutatorian, Jordyn Avery, Auxiliary nonpartisan pro- valedictorian and Jennifer Spoon, historian. gram that teaches young women responsible citizenship and love of the varsity track team. for God and Country. When she is not studying, cheering or Spoon demonstrated her diverse talents working at Chick-Fil-A, she enjoys singby taking part in many of her school’s ing in her church’s choir. She is also a groups and teams. She was the Beta Club’s member of a youth band at her church. vice-president, served as the parliamentarJacksonville State University recogian of the Student Council Association, nized the leadership and talent in Spoon, participated in the Math Team, sung in the and offered her the Faculty Scholars Senior High Choir, and was a member of Scholarship. With it, Spoon said she plans the FBLA. on majoring in sociology and minor in Besides academics and leadership, business. Spoon also stood out in athletics. She was The graduation ceremony will be held at a varsity cheerleader as well as a member Robertson Field on May 27th at 7 p.m.
Senior spotlight
Walker demonstrates high level of leadership Secondary School’s Principal Leadership Award and the AASSP’s Outstanding Student Award. Walker was also named as the recipient of WPHS Brandey Munroe Scholarship. Jacksonville State University has also seen the hard work and success Walker has displayed. They have given her the JSU Leadership Scholarship, which will pay her full tuition to attend classes at the university for two years. A true leader wants to help others, especially ones who cannot help themselves, and Walker will continue to do just that in the future. She plans on attending JSU and the University of Alabama at Birmingham to become a pediatric nurse practitioner.
DAVID JENNINGS News Staff Writer
Sam Houston once said, “A leader is someone who helps improve the lives of other people or improve the system they live under.” No other White Plains Wildcat demonstrates that better than Amber Renee Walker. During her high school career, Walker has served in many different capacities spending her time and energy serving her fellow students. She worked in many clubs including Students Against Destructive Decisions and First Priority. She has also taken leadership positions such as serving as the president of the Future Business Leaders of America and the Senior Class Secretary. This year Walker served WPHS as the president of the Student Council Association and students throughout the state as the vice-president of the Alabama SCA. Walker not only shows leadership in school, but also on the ball field. She has played varsity softball for six years. During her spare time, Walker still serves her community by working to help raise money for Relay for Life. Walker also attends Lloyd’s Chapel Baptist Church. Looking over her resume, one might wonder is there was any time for academics. Like a true leader, Walker kept her priorities straight and kept her name on the school’s A/B Honor Roll her entire high school
Congratulations, Class of 2010 Amber Renee Walker career. The impact this leader has had on her school and community has not gone unnoticed. Walker has been the recipient of many awards and recognitions. She was awarded with WPHS Gold Honor Award both for the 2008-09 and 2009-10 school years. She was named Teen of the Week. She was given the ASCA Leadership Award, the Alabama Association of
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10B • Tuesday, May 25, 2010
The Jacksonville News
Parker, Britton co-salutatorians HOMESCHOOL SPOTLIGHT
DAVID JENNINGS News Staff Writer
“Whether you turn to the right or to the left, you will hear a voice behind you saying, ‘This is the way; walk in it.’” –Isaiah 30:21 Alabama church school Pathways Academy serves families that desire to home school their children. They help families teach their kids and guide them on their pathway to their future. This year 18 students will complete their high school careers and graduate from the academy. Taylor Parker is an excellent example of the talent and community leadership that comes from that group. Parker will be graduating as a co-salutatorian of his class. Parker served his community by working as an active member of the 4H Club. He also was elected as the vice president of the Beta Club. When he wasn’t serving, Parker was working in his family’s business, Parker Construction.
Taylor Parker Parker has a message to share, and he does that with his music. A faithful member of First Baptist Church in Jacksonville, Parker spent a lot of his time playing guitar in the church’s Youth Band. Now a few days away from graduating, Parker said he wants to take his guitar and move up to the church’s Adult Band. “I felt like it is where I should be,” said Parker. “It feel like it is where my ministry can grow and flourish.” Parker will be attending
Jacksonville S t a t e University in the fall where he received the Faculty Scholarship that will pay his full tuition. Parker said that he to Kathryn Britton wants earn a secondary education degree with a concentration in math. For Parker’s parents, Neil and Sherry Parker, this will be their third child to graduate from the home school program. “It has been very rewarding,” said Sherry Parker. “There have been challenges along the way, but it makes me proud of our family.” Sharing the title of salutatorian with Parker is Kathryn Britton. She is the daughter of Ben and Tressie Britton of
Jacksonville. She is active with People to People International and has traveled to Australia and Washington DC as a student ambassador. She credits the program with bringing her out of her shell and becoming a more social person. She is a member of the White Lightning ‘93 travel softball team based in Birmingham. At 13, Britton was the youngest student accepted into the Accelerated Enrollment Program at JSU. Britton said she was nervous at first, being so young and taking classes on campus, but she rose to the challenge and it made her who she is today. She will be attending Spring Hill College in Mobile on an academic scholarship in the fall where she will be a Pre-Med major and a member of the Badger Softball Team. These two will join 16 others as the 2010 graduating class from Pathways Academy. The commencement service will be May 29th at 1 p.m. at Gadsden’s First United Methodist Church.
BRIDGES: JCA grad From page 7B
is doing. That is evident by the award and honors she has achieved. Bridges was picked as the THUNDER Award recipient, named as the Anniston Star’s Teen of the Week and chosen to be an Attendant for the Senior Homecoming Court. Excelling in one area takes work, but to achieve high marks in multiple areas like Bridges has done, it takes someone very special. Gadsden State Community College has recognized the work Bridges has done and have offered her a scholarship to join their show choir. Bridges said that she wants to use that scholarship to major in music at GSCC. The future is looking bright for this multitalented star. “Her basic love is music and singing and Gadsden State will be a blessing,” said Ron Bridges.
Way to go Class of 2010
TOP LEFT PHOTO: Jacksonville Christian Academy graduates. TOP RIGHT PHOTO: Pleasant Valley High School graduates. BOTTOM LEFT PHOTO: Jacksonville High School graduates. BOTTOM RIGHT PHOTO: White Plains High School graduates.
Julian W. M. Hill Parents: Joshua & Shannon Hill Yeah Julian! What a wonderful kindergarten year with Mrs. Pollard. We are so very proud of you! Love, Mom, Dad, Rivan, & Calvan
Elizabeth Camilla Reese Parents: Mike & Jeanna Reese “Today is your day! Your mountain is waiting. So...get on your way!” Dr. Seuss
Sam Tomlinson
We are all so proud of you! Mom, Dad, Ben, & Dan
Jack Whaley Parents: Missia & Ricky Whaley Treasured memories of our special time with you will fill our hearts with joy, pride, and love. You are a cherished blessing. We love you!
I hope your dreams take you to the corners of your smiles, to the highest of your hopes, to the windows of your opportunities, and to the most special places your heart has ever known. Author Unknown