Issue 6 2012 by Pleasant Grove HS Edge

Meagan’s Fight

pleasant grove high school 5406 mcknight road | texarkana, tx | 75503 check us out @ www.pgedgeonline.com May 21, 2012 | vol. 27 #6

Former PG student Meagan Mauldin died May 11 after a three year battle with ostenocercoma (bone marrow cancer). As a former cheerleader, Mauldin was well-known and well-loved by her classmates. When she was diagnosed with cancer after experiencing leg pain her senior year, Mauldin finished school at home while undergoing treatment. Even though she wasn’t at school every day, her prescence was still there and those who knew her visited her often. Mauldin remained positive throughout her illness and inspired hundreds of people in her three-year fight in person and via social media with uplifiting statuses on her Facebook page. In a 2009 Edge story after she was diagnosed, she summed up her feelings. “If I’ve learned anything it’s to not take life for granted,” Mauldin said. “I used to get so upset over boyfriend stuff, breaks ups and all that and now I realize that my problems were so small. You just have to have perspective in your life--compared to cancer a lot of things are small.”

edge Top Of The Heap Nine seniors were named to the Academic Hall of Fame at the Academic Awards last Tuesday night. Top: Adrian Tobey, Hannah Brownlee, Angela Bultemeier, Matt Howell, Kim Spink, Carly Court. Bottom: Principal Bill Harp, Jessica Ross; Jeremy Ramos.

Just ask us

Last Friday, Facebook went public with a stock offering. While that probably doesn’t affect you as one of two billion users worldwide, it does mean that Facebook is getting friendly with more and more people. As the social media site expands into parents’ and grandparents’ lives, some students are looking for other ways to communicate. So we asked you, do you still use Facebook as your primary source for social media?

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62% said yes

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38% said no

I use Facebook a lot because it’s a great way to keep in touch with family and friends that don’t don’t live near me..” -randawilmoth, 12

I never get on Facebook any more because it’s been taken over by parents and they creep on you.” -hunterhatfield, 9

on the edge

Short and Sweet Finally, summer vacation. Three long months of sleeping late, relaxing at the lake, doing nothing at all. Well, wait. It’s not exactly three months. Even if you don’t count all those camps and workshops you’ve already signed up for, backto-school activities start July 23: That’s right. Drill team line camp kicks off the next school year. And then there’s senior portraits on July 30 and two-a-days for football and volleyball start Aug. 6. But not everyone’s unhappy about starting back. “I don’t mind taking time out of summer to practice because I love to dance and it gives me something to do,” sophomore Allie Taylor said “It also prepares us so we can have a good football season and get a head start on competition dances.”

-nthigpenphotos

Million Dollar Babies

Small Class Rakes In Big Scholarship Money Totals

Ashlyn Hurst reporter

Despite having one of the smallest classes in school history, the 2012 seniors amassed an impressive amount of scholarships. The 112 graduating seniors received almost $4 million from colleges and universities across the country. As of May 18, the total scholarship amount was $3,853,700, but counselor Louanne Smith said the total could rise as seniors continue to

receive scholarships. “The total is right up there with previous year’s classes,” Smith said. “We had some students who really bumped up the amount of scholarships.” Forty-four seniors received scholarships or grants of some kind, either academic, need-based or athletic. One of those was Nick Reed, who was offered football scholarships from Southern Methodist University, Texas State University and Arkansas State University for a total of almost

$500,000. Nick was one of seven seniors who received athletic scholarships. Abby Pickett and Trey Hart signed with Ouachita Baptist University, Lucas Wacha signed with University of Wyoming, Tim and Justin Buchanan with Southern Arkansas University and Melvin Gray with University of Central Arkansas. Seniors will be attending colleges all over the South. See the special Senior Pull-out Section in this issue for more information about the senior class.

Not So Flexible

Flex Week Program Terminated In Wake Of New State Tests Mark Northam reporter

Once final exams are over, some students stick around for another week of tutoring or make-up work. It’s part of a state-wide program known as Flex Week at Pleasant Grove, and for those who get to avoid the extended school year, the week gives them a head start on summer. However, that’s coming to an end starting next year as End-of-Course exams take the place of TAKS. According to Principal Bill Harp, next year’s school calendar will be missing the flex days. The week of tutoring started shortly after the TAKS test was implemented in 2003. These extra ten days built into the end of the school year started as a way to help students improve their test scores. “Flex days are tied directly to the TAKS test,” Harp said. “With the STAAR replacing the TAKS, flex week is on the way out as well.” Harp explained that the schedule next year would have a week for EOC/STAAR tests, a week of semester exam preparation, and then a week for semester exams. He said that since the results for the STAAR exams don’t come in until June, it doesn’t make sense to keep the program

active. than the TAKS.” “I think it works for completing course work or With a a more difficult test facing students, knocking out makeup hours,” Harp said. “I don’t teachers look forward to the extra instruction think it works for the state tests. It’s not a lack of time. effort. It’s just that you can’t really prepare for a “This will be great because we get another week test that’s 11 months away.” with all of the students The program’s effectiveness to help them prepare,” Flex days are tied directly has always been unclear since, Edmonds said. “It should to the TAKS test, so with for most students not tied also make students more the STAAR replacing the down by Flex Week classwork, accountable when it TAKS, the flex week is on it meant a week of cleaning comes to tardies, absences the way out as well.” out and re-organizing the PAC and failing classes because -Principal Bill Harp or rushing to grab the last few they won’t have flex week quotes for the yearbook. Now, to fall back on.” with a change in the calendar, With makeup days still students and staff alike have varying opinions. lined up at the end of this year, students won’t “I think they’re taking it away because the have to worry about repeating a grade because students who were supposed to show up didn’t,” of a couple of makeup hours, and there is always junior Nathan Hurst said. “Since they didn’t show the possibility that the flex days may make a up, the school didn’t get attendance money, and comeback. they decided to cut out the days to save money.” “If the scores on the tests are bad, the state will While some believe that attendance money is probably try to do something,” Harp said. “The the reason for the change, others feel it’s being legislature is meeting next year and will probably dropped for a more academic purpose. come up with something.” “It probably had to do with needing more With the STAAR on the way in, Flex Week is instruction for the whole student body prior to on the way out. Love it or hate it, don’t mark Flex the new STAAR exams,” English teacher Shawn Week down on your planner for next year. Edmonds said. “The STAAR is much harder

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thebottomline

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completed by Kenzie Floyd, Nathan Taylor, Josh Whitt

Smart Way to Start Summer Students take advantage of summer education

School. After the end of the school year, it’s the last thing any student wants to think about. But for students wanting to graduate early or get ahead in class rank, it’s a necessary evil. This year, summer school courses will be from 8am to 1pm, Monday thru Thursday, beginning June 4. Enrolled students will be required to stay the whole time. Though school is out, students will be required to Pleasant Grove ISD code of conduct and

dress code. Credits will only be awarded to students who not only pass the course, but also current and upcoming freshman must score the minimum standard or higher on the corresponding EOC test. Credits will not count towards rank or GPA, but getting unweighted classes out of the way, allows students more room in their schedule for higher level classes. “I took FPF and Speech in the summer, so that I could have

events, activities, and news briefly

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more room in my schedule for harder classes,” sophomore Leanne Booker said. Classes include math models, FPF, speech, IPC, English 1-4, BCIS, Spanish 1-3, and many others. Registration forms are avaliable in the counselor’s office and on the Pleasant Grove district website. Classes of half-credit or one semester will be $125 and full credit will be $250. “It was definitely worth it,” Leanne said.

Bah Humbug

Calender causes slight difference in winter break

gimme 5 The Results Are In With the end of the year just around the corner, PGHS’s organizations have reorgainzed their leadership. Here’s a short list of students that made the cut.

Mark your calender. Next year, Christmas break will start later than usual. But before you grab your torches and pitchforks on your way to the main office, there’s a reason behind the schedule change. It all depends on how the days fall on the calendar. It’s a natural phenomenon. Certain days of the week land themselves on different numbered days of the year. For example, sometimes Christmas is on a Saturday, sometimes it’s on a Sunday. The number of days in the

school year has not changed. “The state legislature has made it law that school cannot start before the fourth Monday of August,” Principal Bill Harp said. Because that fateful Monday actually falls later in the month, school will start later. This will give students a longer summer, but a later Christmas break. So when it seems like school will never end in December, remember you had it good in August.

Drive Safe, Win Big PGHS Poster Contest winners announced

Taylor Everett

Guard Captain: Alexandra Lawson

Drill Team Captain:

Elizabeth Stark

Officers:

Katy Beth Irwin Allie Taylor Meredith Bunel Kristina Cox

Cheerleading Captains:

Madison Dudley Tiffani Smith

Student of the month

Matt Howell

How to get the credit you want and get on with your summer.

Powderpuff Game

Time for the girls to show their skill and prowess on the football field.

“Don’t sit by your friends. If you get distracted, you’ll be there forever.” Jordan Hearn (10)

Senior Banquet Graduation is almost here and it’s time for seniors to celebrate. Go have your cake and eat it. (Edge newspaper is not responsible for lack of cake.)

Band Trip “Just remember, there’s light at the end of tunnel.” Travis Alkire (10)

This month, State Farm sponsored a contest. The rules? Make a poster that encourages safe driving. After many long weeks, the results are finally in. Three lucky winners received cash prizes of $100-$500 for their art. Sophomore Rachel Ford won first

place, with freshman Son Nguyen winning second, and freshman Chris Young in third place. On May 17, they will be recongnized for their achievement at an award meeting.

A Baccalaureat, pronounced “back-a-lor-e-at,” is a religious service conducted by ministers and other speakers that honors seniors and their families. “Parents ask a minister, usually one in their family, to speak at the service.” Mrs. Cook said. “It’s not a school sponsored program. The parents are in charge.” This year, Mrs. Laurie Booker will be the one in charge. Although attendance isn’t mandatory, seniors are encouraged to come and celebrate their final moments as a Pleasant Grove student. When: May 31st Where: Williams Memorial

PGHS band as they head to the Magic Kingdom. They’re the only band there leading the Magic light parade, no pressure guys.

Bacca-wha?

Band

Drum Major:

Summer School Survival.

may/june

Bad Weather Day

Aren’t you glad it didn’t ice over that one time in February?

Flex Week

For all you studious people that passed your tests, stay home this week where you belong.

Graduation Four longs years of highschool are up, now its time for many more years of college.

Summer School 4849 Texas Blvd. • Texarkana

That terrible place where Summer and school intermingle.

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All power, No puff Juniors take victory in annual game Your Pleasant Grove jewelers

2812 Richmond Road Richmond Park Center Texarkana, TX

Making Life EZR 4 U!

Proudly supporting Hawk Nation Five Pleasant Grove Locations 2802 Richmond Road 670 N. Kings Hwy. 6424 Richmond Road 5602 Summerhill Road 5121 Summerhill Road

With just ten players, it wasn’t much of a contest, but the seniors gave it everything they had in the annual Powderpuff Game. The juniors overwhelmed their rivals 28-0 last Thursday. “We just played for fun because we only had nine players for most of the game,” senior Kayla Kempson who pulled double duty as nose guard and center said. “None of us got to sit down during the entire game. I was really sore the next day.” The 18-woman junior squad was coached by juniors Nick Cockerell, Quentin Miller and Jacob Brown. “I had a lot of fun coaching the girls through practice but the game was obviously my favorite part,” Cockerell said. “We won because we kept it simple so our girls could understand it. Plus our girls are just ballers.”

Congratulations!

Band Seniors The Band Boosters congratulates the 2012 Pride in Motion Seniors on their outstanding accomplishments!

Check us out on FACEBOOK: PG Band Boosters

(1) Senior Adrian Tobey runs the ball as junior Jessica Shipp takes chase.(2) The juniors huddle up around quarterback Anna Claire Brown. (3) A post victory pose from the winning team. (4) Juniors Kendall Lindsey and Avery Borrell look for the ball as they defend seniors Jessica Ross and Kayla Kempson. Photos by Peyton Trippe.

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The Taste of Reality

Embarrassing moments make soccer games worthwhile

ashlynhurst, reporter

A basketball player at heart, the transition to soccer wasn’t easy. No hands, bigger goal, more players, new rules. Thanks to the undying encouragement and patience of my friends, I learned the fundamentals of the game, and soon, I was hooked. I loved the time I spent on the field and on the bench. With so many girls on varsity, it was difficult to give everyone the same amount of playingtime. After missing most of the season because of basketball, my first away game was against Hope. As I walk to the visitor’s bench, my cleats sink into the field. I drop my backpack, grab my Lady Hawks hoodie, and pull it over my head. “Alright, ladies. Agilities,” coach Allen says as he fills the water bottles. Circling up to stretch, I size-up the competition as they take the field. Nothing about them is intimidating. Maybe I’ll play this game. The referees blow their whistles

and the game begins. Halftime. We’re up three to nothing. Ten minutes later, goal. I hear coach Allen shouting. I look at my teammates on the bench, but no one gets up. “Ashlyn, forward.” My heart skips a beat. I jump to my feet and rip off my hoodie. Stuck to my sweatshirt, my jersey flies up. A chorus of laughter sounds from the bench. Smooth. Within minutes, we’ve scored again. I follow the ball as it bounces around the field. When it looks like it’s coming my way, it’s launched in the opposite direction. I keep moving around looking for open spaces. Finally, it comes to my side. I run to my teammate to meet the pass. As it rolls to me, I imagine the perfect play. My cleat softly stops the ball and in one quick motion, I am turned around barreling for the goal. Past one, two, three defenders. The

ball shoots past the goalie and into the back of the net. I am so close to my first goal, I can taste it. Now inches away, I lift my foot ready to trap the ball. As I turn, my right foot hits my left and sends me falling face first onto the cold, hard dirt. I try to push my arms out in front of me to catch myself, but I’m too late. The taste is neither success, nor victory, but more like dirt and grass. I lift my head to look for the ball, but all I can see is a blur of burgundy. My face, throbbing, slams into the ground again. The largest girl on the Hope team trips over me and sits on my head. Pushing her off me, I try to casually get up and win the ball back. When the ball is clear of my side, I look around to see if anyone noticed my amazing athletic display. Oh, they noticed. One look and we all lost it. Sometimes, the most memorable and embarrassing are the same game.

staff editorial really matters. Doing fun things like pink out, lip dub, and spring fling are critical to uniting our high school community. Even with all the positive feedback from the lip dub, some teachers were worried that so much class time had been lost. It was right in the middle of the six weeks, and things needed to be done. Class time was also taken out for the pink glove pep rally when last period was released 30 minutes early to run through the dance a few times. Even if doing these kind of community events take away from class time, it’s well worth the trouble of catching up. The events make students excited to be a part of our school and motivate them to work harder in school work and extracurricular activities. Everyone from administrators to teachers to student leaders should encourage community events, and when they roll around, we should all take pride in supporting our community, Hawk Nation.

-stevensmith, 10

-christianmitchell, 11

“I don’t. I’m not very fond of patriotism. I mean, I celebrate, but I don’t go out of my way.”

“No. It isn’t very safe at all, but tradition is tradition though so I’m fine with it.”

“I usually celebrate on most patriotic holidays, and I’m super enthusiastic during the pledge.”

“It is about as safe as Friday night football. It really depends on the intensity of the player.”

“I fly the American flag at the house.”

- billharp, principal

Do you think powder puff is a safe sporting event?

“With this school’s past history, definitely not. There are more blown out knees in powder puff than the football season.”

Have you been following the presidential elections?

“It all depends on location. Early summer or late fall.”

“I have been and none of the candidates have been doing it for me. I would say I’m pro-Obama.”

“I don’t mind. As long as there is some A/C, it’s all good.”

phone: (903) 832-8005 . fax (903) 832-5381

Kenzie Floyd Naveed Haque Nathan Taylor Josh Whitt Editors Avery Borrell Collin Craytor Natalie Thigpen Peyton Trippe Landon Young Photographers Kyle Green Ashlyn Hurst Mark Northam Joel Webb Curtis Zachry Reporters

William Harp Principal

Would you rather have a fall wedding or a summer wedding?

“I really just want an outside wedding. So, in the South, fall, In the North, summer.”

5406 mcknight rd . texarkana, tx . 75503

Charla Harris Adviser

Head to Head How do you show your American pride?

pleasant grove high school

Michaela James Kendall Lindsey Erika Rodriguez Elizabeth Stark Contributors

School events encourage sense of community, school spirit Junior Kendall Lindsey got chills. Tears welled up in theater director Debby Sutton’s eyes. Drill team director Tiffany Beck jumped up and down. Principal Bill Harp felt his jaw drop. The words “HAWK NATION!” echoed throughout the entire high school campus. After a week of choreography and rehearsals, the infamous lip dub was finally coming to an end. When the music faded out, Mrs. Beck started the “Hawk Nation “cheer and almost everyone in the gym participated. At that moment, many students that had never felt like they belonged to the school felt differently. A sense of community filled the halls of the high school. Just like the pink glove pep rally which happened months before, the lip dub was considered a success. It’s the things like this that make us Hawk Nation. High grades and award-winning programs are equally important, but if Pleasant Grove isn’t united, none of that

edge

“Yes. If it looks like a president, that doesn’t necessarily mean it should be one.”

“The only thing I know is I should probably vote.”

Editorial policy Edge is produced by the newspaper students in the publications department of Pleasant Grove High School and are responsible for its production and content. The newspaper serves as an open forum for student expression and the discussion of issues of concern to students. Unsigned editorials represent the opinions of the student staffers and do not necessarily reflect those of the administration. Signed columns and reviews reflect the opinion of the author only. Edge encourages and accepts letters to the editor. Letters must be signed and will be edited to eliminate obscenity and inappropriate content. Letters may be submitted to the editor in room 603. Edge is a member of the Interscholastic League Press Conference, National Scholastic Press Association and Columbia Scholastic Press Association.

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g n i n r Lera fo A L L ages s! n e e t r o f s r program

m m u s ’s e g e l l Co a n a k r a x e heck out T

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C A R E E R & T E C H N O LO G Y D I S C OV E RY | 10th Grade and Older Explore Texarkana College’s workforce programs with our new Career & Technology Search! Are you interested in sampling an assortment of our programs to see which you’d like to pursue? For $60, you can choose up to four programs to explore. Available programs include welding, cosmetology, construction technology, auto body, air conditioning and refrigeration, and culinary arts. Visit texarkanacollege.edu for more information!

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the second family

fight

After finding out about Mr. Lawson’s cancer, the band members and parents didn’t hesitate to help out. “Mr. Lawson isn’t just another teacher, he’s a dad to all the band students,” junior Caleb Smith said. “We wanted to do whatever we could to support him throughout the battle.” The week after Mr. Lawson told the band he had lymphoma, band moms painted a banner that says “fight like a band geek” and hung it in the band hall. “When I walked in one morning and saw the banner hanging, I couldn’t help but tear up,” Mr. Lawson said. “It made me realize that our band is a family and we would support each other in good times and bad.” For the next few weeks, the Lawson family began to receive support from all over. Many people cooked dinners for them, knitted caps for Mr. Lawson to wear during cold football games, and they could constantly feel the prayers of friends, family, and even strangers carrying them throughout the day. Since green is the ribbon color for lymphoma, girls in the band dyed strips of their hair green. Juniors Caleb Smith, Ryan Williams, and Joel Webb shaved their heads to show Mr. Lawson that he wasn’t alone in his fight. “When Caleb asked me if I’d want to shave my head, I immediately agreed” Webb said. “I knew I was going to look different, but the thought of supporting Mr. Lawson made it worth it.”

nd geek

like a

e n band director Arnie Lawson went to the doctor’s office for a check up this August, he just thought he was getting his kidney stones checked out. Kenzie Floyd

news editor

Band director Arnie Lawson stands in front of his students before band practice starts, just like he has every day for the past 20 years. But today’s different. His hands are shaking. He’s nervous. Finally, the words that have been racking his mind for weeks tumble out. “I have cancer,” he says. And the room goes silent. The students’ eyes grow wide as they all focus on their director. For Mr. Lawson, it seems like everyone’s stopped breathing. Then he laughs. Laughs and says, “I’m not going to die,” The students relax a bit, look around. Some let out deep breaths. Mr. Lawson’s daughter Alexandra, also one of his students, already knows what’s going on. She knows her dad has lymphoma. Knows he’ll be seeing doctors and going to chemo for the next few months. Knows, like the rest of her family, things are about to change. *** Mr. Lawson sits in the doctor’s office three months earlier -there to get his kidney stones checked out. A short check up. A CT scan. Then Mr. Lawson and Dr. Sean Womack sit in the examination room and look at the x-rays. They look and Dr. Womack points to an enlarged lymph node, a lump on the outside of Mr. Lawson’s kidney. And they realize something more than a kidney stone’s wrong. The doctor tells Mr. Lawson it could be nothing. He tells Mr. Lawson it could be cancer. Tells Mr. Lawson it could be anything. *** That night, Lawson knows he has to tell the family. They’ve heard the words before. They’ve heard them twice. Once in 1998, and again in 2006. Twice when Lawson’s wife, Renee, was diagnosed with breast cancer. And now this. A possible diagnosis of cancer. Three times in a 13 -year period. Mr. Lawson sits there -- telling his girls, Elizabeth and Alexandra, won’t be easy, but Mr. Lawson knows they deserve to know.

So he tells them. Tells them about the doctor’s visit, the dark spot on the x-ray. Tells them Dr. Womack advised him to get the lymph node looked at. Tells them he scheduled the closest appointment he could, which isn’t until November. Alexandra sits there listening, but she’s not worried. “Since I was so young the first time my mom had cancer, I didn’t really understand what was going on,” Alexandra said. “My first memory of it was her having to wear wigs-- I didn’t realize it was life-changing. The second time was different. It was hard to go through something like that as a sixth grader.” And now she’s not worried during the three months leading to her dad’s appointment. For those three months, the Lawson family tries not to focus on the fact their dad may have cancer. They just continue their everyday lives. Mr. Lawson directs the band. Renee coaches color guard and teaches music at the intermediate school. Elizabeth keeps going to college at Ouachita Baptist University And Alexandra? She keeps serving as the color guard captain, keeps trying to make good grades and think about what college to apply for next fall, keeps trusting her boyfriend, Weston, and friend Kendall to be there for her when she needs it. She keeps being a teenager. “My parents have always taught me not to worry because God will take care of us,” Alexandra said. “During those three months of waiting, we kept the mind set that no matter what my dad was diagnosed with, we’d take care of it and everything would be okay.” *** The night of his November appointment, the Lawsons have a family dinner at Amigo Juan’s. Then they come home and begin flipping through TV channels. Mr. Lawson sits in his leather chair and Alexandra and her mom sit on the couch. Then Renee grabs the remote, presses pause, and turns to her

daughter. And the words finally come out-- Dad has lymphoma. Renee tells Alexandra Dr. Steve Holman confirmed it – her dad has Non-Hodgkins Lymphoma. Mr. Lawson just sits there and listens. “When the results came back as cancer, I wasn’t surprised at all- it was even kind of expected,” Mr. Lawson said, “I decided to be positive, get a good set of doctors, and take care of business.” As for Alexandra… “Finding out about my dad’s cancer was hard, but not as hard as most people think it would be,” Alexandra said. “I did get upset sometimes-- but when I did I hid it well. Sometimes you just have to suck it up and rely on God to see you through, and that’s what I did.” *** Mr. Lawson’s cancer is caught extremely early– it isn’t even stage one yet. He begins to see Dr. Gary Engstrom, goes to chemotherapy once every three weeks-- the only time he misses work. In fact, Mr. Lawson’s only absent six days of the school year. “We tried to keep everything as normal as possible,” Mr. Lawson said. “There were things that made it hard to do that, like losing my hair, not sleeping and not wanting to eat very often, but I was able to rely on my family whenever I needed.” Renee knows exactly what her husband’s going through since she’s experienced chemotherapy twice before. “Chemo does a lot of weird things to your body that no one can really understand, but Renee understood everything,” Mr. Lawson said. “I’m so thankful to have that.” *** Six months later, after six months of battling, Mr. Lawson goes to his last chemo treatment. It’s the beginning of May and he’s doing better -- better every day. “The whole time I knew God was going to take care of my family. He’s always with us in good times and bad,” Mr. Lawson said. “Cancer is beatable-- we’ve proved it three times.”

How

to wear

Academic

Caps the right way

(and how not to)

Graduation. You’re going to remember this moment for the rest of your life. Who wants to be the only one wearing their cap wrong? If you ask us, academic caps just look kinda funny in the first place. But, these caps are part of the tradition, so you;ll just have to get over it. We know what’s going through your head right now, how hard is it to put on a hat? You’d be surprised how many seniors found themselves perplexed and doubting themselves after our little experiment... The Vanity Cap This is what most female graduates do with their caps to protect their graduation hairstyle. What the Vanity Cap says about you: “This cap is really ugly and I’m only wearing it because I have to.” Milly Seung The Sideways Cap The most common look you’ll see when it comes to wearing academic caps wrong. What the Sideways Cap says about you: “My hat is already halfway off, as soon as this is over, I’m out of here!” NIck Reed The Backwards Cap The point goes in front. The tassle goes to the side. It only makes sense.

Luke McGuire

What the Backwards Cap says about you: “I didn’t pay attention when I put this on, and none of my friends told me that it looked stupid.”

The Correct Cap Point in front. Flat on top. This is the way you’re supposed to wear your cap on the big day. What the Correct Cap says about you: “I should be at the top of my class.”

Going Out

Here

Seniors Plan On Staying Home For Low Tuition, Great Education

Ashlyn Hurst reporter

Senior Carly Court knew after her interview. The tuition. Rent. Cost of books. Meal plan. It would all be worth it. Almost 300 miles from home, Texas Christian University (TCU) is Carly’s dream college and nothing could keep her in Texarkana. “At first, I was going to go to A&M, but after my interview with TCU, my parents said they couldn’t let me go anywhere else,” Carly said. But senior Hunter Pruitt has a different college route in mind. “I’m going to A&M-Texarkana because it’s close, and I want to get used to college classes and get my basics out of the way.” In a recent study, the College Board and Art & Science Group found that 41 percent of high school seniors are giving more consideration to attending local colleges because of the equal opportunities local colleges/universities offer, economic conditions, and communities relationships. For a metropolitan area of just 140,000, having even one option for college is rare. Texarkana has two. “Both Texarkana College and Texas A&M are good schools,” said counselor Louanne Smith. “Now that we have a four-year college in Texarkana, if they offer the major a student is looking for, there really isn’t a need to leave for college.” Although it may appear to be simple community college, Texarkana College (TC) has a lot to offer. From scholarships to specialized career courses, Texarkana’s economy-friendly opportunities shouldn’t be overlooked. “The courses we offer at Texarkana College are transferable to most four-year universities in the United States,” said Larry Andrews, Director of Advisement, Recruitment, and Retention. “We give students a career pathway. With a one or two year degree, students can graduate employable to skilled jobs in high demand.”

Some career programs offered at TC include chemistry, biology, automotive technician, culinary arts, cosmetology, nursing, diesel technician, and aviation. A few of these courses are not only offered at the college level, but can be taken by junior and senior Pleasant Grove students. “We have an excellent nursing program,”Andrews said. “90% of the nurses employed in Texarkana received their education at Texarkana College.” But premiere career courses aren’t the only motivation to attend. With its low student to teacher ratio, Texarkana College provides high school graduates with an easy transition into “college life”. “I highly recommend Texarkana College to any student. I’m a non-traditional student. I went back to college later in my life. I had been out of that “college environment” for a while, and the interpersonal atmosphere of a community college built my confidence,” Andrews said. “A community college is a good opportunity to mature and acclimate to the speed and atmosphere of college.” Last year, the new Texas A&M-Texarkana (TAMU-T) campus was finally opened and provided Texarkana students with another local option and the courses to receive a four-year degree. The A&M campus not only offers academic programs, but also many clubs and campus involvement activities. “We [TAMU-T] have more than 50 different clubs, many community service based,” said Dr. Kent Kelso, Vice President of Student Engagement and Success. “We have a strong intramural sports program and will be joining the NCAA (National Collegiate Athletic Association) next year.” But a quality education isn’t the only thing they offer. There is one benefit that sets Texarkana College and Texas A&M-Texarkana apart from other community and four-year colleges in the nation: cost. “You won’t find a lower tuition and fees for a four-year college in the entire state of Texas for a Texas A&M education,” Dr. Kelso said. “College is expensive. When you

By the Numbers Carson Rice The Pouffy Cap Not sure what’s going on here. Use bobby pins to make it fit snuggly.

Megan Thigpen

edge

l a i c e p s r senio

What the Pouffy Cap says about you: “My cap has been smushed in the back seat of my car for a month.”

Texarkana College

Texas A&M-Texarkana

Degree offered: Associates (two-year) of Applied Science, Arts, Science, and certificates of graduation (one-year) Tuition: depends on number of hours per semester Books: $50-100 Housing: $1,000 per semester Meal Plan: start at $100 Mascot: Bulldog Current Enrollment: 4,700 students

Degree offered: Four-year Bachelor’s Degrees in a variety of areas Tuition: $86-$200 per class. Books: $50-100 Housing: $100 deposit, no other prices available Meal Plan: $10 per day Mascot: Eagle Current Enrollment: 1,900 students

go away for school, you pay nearly double the cost of staying local in room, board, and tuition .” Like TAMU-T, Texarkana College has the lowest tuition rate of any community college in Texas and Arkansas. Despite the cost of room in the residence hall and meal plan, TC provides an affordable price range. “I’m not sure what I want to major in. I’d rather pay $1,000 on my basics at Texarkana College, then spend $6,000 on classes I’m not sure about,” senior Nathan Taylor said. Along with academic and economic benefits, students who stay home for college profit personally and emotionally. Close to home, students keep close relationships with family and friends and local connections. “When you go away [for college], you have to create a new support system. It’s hard to replace family, friends, and teachers,” Dr. Kelso said. “But if you stay local, you have easy access to your family for family events or encouragement.” This local advantage has played a large part in sophomore Jordan Day’s decision to go to Texas A&M-Texarkana in the near future. “Because I’m dyslexic, it would be easier for me to take my first college classes close to home, so that I have people available to read to me,” Jordan said. “I’m a home-body. I understand why people think Texarkana is boring and they want to leave, but I have too much here. I don’t like the idea of starting over.” Though most students won’t be staying here for college, 49% of seniors have taken a class from Texarkana College, from college release to summer school, in their high school career. This year, 23% of PG seniors are considering that option. “If you’re not sure, get your feet wet, spend a year at Texas A&M-Texarkana,” Dr. Kelso said. “Many of the students who spend a year at TAM-T, find that they enjoy it, and if we don’t offer your major, you can always get your basics out of the way for a low cost. It’s a win-win.”

Who’s

going

2011-2012 Seniors

10 signs that

where Nathan Taylor

feature editor

University of Arkansas

TC TCU SMU

feeling

-Matt Montes

Become a movie star -Jarrod Myers

roommate

UAB

SAU Louisiana Tech

Baylor A&M CS USF

Arkansas State University - Taylor Young Austin Community College - Megan Thigpen Baylor University - Jackson Payne College Of The Ozarks - Kimberly Spink Dallas Baptist University - Jessica Ross Henderson State University - Luke McGuire, Jarrod Myers, Allison Mayfield Louisiana Tech - Sydney Mason Oklahoma State University - Colm Donohoe, Sydney Jacobsen, Hannah Brownlee Ouachita Baptist University - Anna Whittington, Abby Pickett, Weston Smith, Trey Hart Southern Arkansas University - Katelyn Scott, Blake Smith, Coe Watlington, Justin Buchanan, Timothy Buchanan Southern Arkansas University Tech - Justin Woodward, Antonio Graves Southern Methodist University - Nick Reed Texarkana College - Chandrice Conkleton, Quaneidra Noble, Matt Allen, Kelsey Underwood, Brisa Aguirre, Stephen Cockrell, Jacob Harmon, Lindsey Laforge Texas Christian University - Carly Court, Bailey Booker, Kayla Kempson

Be late for graduation

Come back to coach at PG -Nick Reed

A&M Commerce

Dallas Baptist University

Austin Community College

-Sydney Jacobsen

NEED a new

ASU

UCA Henderson OBU SAU A&M Tech Texarkana

Live in another country

you

College of the Ozarks

OSU

Most likely to...

1 2 3

They watch you sleep

Their favorite movie is “The Roommate”

Become a Disney character

They don’t know the word hygiene

-Carter Crain

If your new roommate takes a shower every time you wash your clothes, it’s probably safe to assume that your dorm is going to start stinking up the whole floor. Our advice? Febreze air freshener. That stuff works.

Texas A&M College Station - Carson Rice, Roman Brown Texas A&M Commerce - Haley Reed, Naomi Gorse, Nathan Taylor Texas A&M Texarkana - Danielle Martin, Sara Kate Martindale, Bryan Zach, Hunter Pruitt, Zhane Fort-Nailon, Heather McCollum, Cheyenne Davis, Tyler McKinnon, Grant Harrison, Jacob Bass, Tyler Hatfield, John Paul Barrozo, Trevor Oubre, Kevin Luthringer, Qyuan Williams, Odrell Young, Troy Wilburn, Jean-Luc Perez, Michael Bartko, Aesha Henderson, Chase Hampton, Casey Miller, Taylor Griffin University of Arkansas Fayettville - Jeremy Ramos, Randa Wilmoth, Matt Montes, Adrian Tobey, Sean Young, Justus Pickett, Alison Kirk, Matt Howell, Kevin Harris University of Central Arkansas - Carter Crain, Sarah Montgomery, Michaela James, Melvin Gray, Megan Hambleton, Shanteka Henry University of Alabama at Birmingham - Aubrey Young University of South Florida - David Wright

homesick?

It’s never too early to start planning a trip back home.

College

Drive Time

Distance

Avg. Gas Price

Baylor HSU OSU OBU TCU A&M College Station A&M Commerce U of A UCA UT College of the Ozarks DBU Alabama at Birmingham

4 hr 21min 1 hr 18 min 5 hr 37 min 1 hr 19 min 3 hr 31 min 5 hr 7 min 1 hr 58 min 4 hr 46 min 2 hr 40 min 5 hr 57 min 5 hr 30 min 3 hr 6 min 8 hr 7 min

272.51 mi 77.84 mi 337.83 mi 77.9 mi 213.38 mi 287.45 mi 121.81 mi 236.96 mi 167.05 mi 372.35 mi 304.44 mi 191.24 mi 513.45 mi

$29.10 $8.85 $37.14 $8.85 $23.29 $31.29 $13.65 $23.94 $18.53 $40.94 $31.66 $21.03 $56.15

Be a college mascot -Qyuan Williams

Get ID’d at 30

-Josh Smith

Get their own reality tv show -Carly Court

Insomnia is one thing, but standing over you while you sleep crosses the line just a little bit. Of course, if you’re asleep it shouldn’t really bother you anyway.

Military -US Marine CorpsWade Hunnicutt -AirforceChris Blanton Chase Richard Justin Mann

Offmap the

University of Wyoming Lucas Wacha, School of Visual Arts Milly Seung University of New Mexico Darrius Scott

They smuggle people into your room

Become an entrepreneur -Matt Howell

Solve global warming

After a long day of classes, the last thing you want to come home to is a complete stranger sitting on your bed. It’s traumatizing, it’s unnatural, and just downright creepy.

If you’ve seen this movie, we don’t have to tell you that it’s probably safer to get out now. Avoiding hostage situations is always a good idea.

They hold an extensive criminal record

A few speeding tickets is perfectly acceptable, but you don’t want to find yourself rooming with someone who paid tuition by robbing a bank.

-Hannah Brownlee

6 7

They use your stuff without asking This one is pretty self-explanitory, because really, who wants weird people you just met touching all your things? Not us.

They watch weird foreign movies all night

It sounds okay now, but when you find that you’re subconsciously learning Portuguese from hearing the dialogue from across the room, we’re pretty sure you’ll be complaining too. Unless of course you’d like to learn Portuguese, then you’re in for a treat.

8 9

They have a contagious condition

If you have to put effort into avoiding your roommate because you’re afraid of contracting some weird disease your roommate plays host for, you might want to start exploring other rooming options

They’re out to get you

If your roommate follows you around with a camera, just waiting to get your money shot, something has to change. Worrying about people trying to get you in trouble should have stopped in high school.

They won’t let you get away with 1-9

There’s two sides to every arguement, maybe you’re the roommate who wants to get away with all these things. Well good luck with that, see you at the reunion, we’re sure that’ll be interesting.

senior farewells Learning Who I Am

Michaela James, contributor

You learn that high school isn’t only learning to be book smart. It’s also about learning to be street smart. I have to admit I’ve learned a lot about both. Anywhere from the seemingly impossible AP Chemistry homework to what to do if a hobo tries to talk to you in downtown Little Rock. Freshman year, I walked into this school thinking that the next four years would never end. It felt like high school was just going to be a terrible waste of time. I didn’t realize at the time that it wasn’t only about the words within the ginormous textbooks, it’s also about learning to find out who you are. I was the little girl that no one knew. I didn’t have the older siblings that everyone else had to be a shadow behind. I didn’t have a last name legacy. I was just me. Whoever that was. The next four years, I spent trying to find out who I was. Who I wanted to be. I went from being the semi-quiet volleyball player to being the really loud yearbook editor. This didn’t happen overnight. It was a slow process full of meltdowns and laughing fits.

Many clique jumps and judgmental glances later, I finally realized who I am. I’m the girl who goes to every single theatre production and gets some behind the scenes looks at the production. I’m the girl that can go into Target singing at the top of her lungs with her best friend and not care who hears. After years being embarrassed about everything that anyone does, I’ve gotten over the fact that everyone is different and that’s what makes us all interesting. Some people’s differences you can mesh with, other’s you can’t. It’s just a fact of life that I’ve come to terms with. And I’ve figured out who is worth my time of meshing with and who isn’t worth the time of day. I’m just me. And I’m perfectly happy that way.

Reflecting On High School

Nathan Taylor, feature editor

High school teaches you a lot of things, how to live in the real world is not one of them. There are no teachers, but there are cops. There is no homework, but there are bills. There is no skipping classes, just life everyday for the rest of your life. High school is a fantasy world we all spend too much time wrapped up in. When you’re days away from leaving high school, the near unstoppable force that has dominated the last four years of your life, you start to see the humor in all of it. We came as freshmen. We were simple people back then, our only goal was to make it through the day without making a total fool of ourselves, but most of us probably failed anyway. Days turned to weeks, and weeks to months, and the year was gone before we knew it. We returned as the “almost better, but not really” sophomore class. Some of the girls still showed up in the mornings rocking their Hollister purse, Hollister shirt, Hollister hoodie, Hollister pants, Hollister flipflops, Hollister fragrances and thinking people actually cared. A good portion of the guys were still caught in that awkward gangster rap phase, and the rest of us just bragged about all our “senior friends”. The year was over and after we all got our either super awesome or completely horrible summers over with, we returned to high school for

yet another year. We thought we were so cool. In our minds, every single one of us practically had a reality TV show. In reality it was just Facebook. No. Nobody cared but us, but we all went on like they did anyway, and it was worth it. Because despite what you’ve heard, junior year is the is probably going to be your hardest. And don’t forget, this is Pleasant Grove High School, we don’t play. Most of us were doubling up our sciences, taking every AP class we could find, and hitting the books hard. Because you know, why not? Only the best of us even survived without having our spirits crushed. Senior year. We got there, and now we’re done. How weird does it feel to say that? All we’ve known for the last four years is coming to an end. And all we have now is the rest of our lives, we’re all going different places, and we might never even see some of each other again. But for everything we’ve lost and everything we’re losing, we’ve also gained so much more. Few, but valuable life-long friends, an education, and years of memories you’ll be looking back on for the rest of our lives.

YOUR MONEY YOUR WAY

YOUR

CREDIT UNION redrivercreditunion

redrivercu

www.rrfcu.com 903-735-3000 800-822-3317 Federally insured by NCUA

page12

edge knows best Staff picks-- the best of 2011-2012. Spotify Even though an iTunes gift card may be an ideal gift from relatives for Christmas and Easter, they don’t last long. $1.29 for a song can add up pretty quick. This is why I love Spotify. Kind of a mix between iTunes and Pandora, Spotify is a music streaming service available on all Apple products and most PCs and Windows products. On Spotify, you can listen to millions of different songs without having to buy them. You can even make playlists on your computer and listen to specific radio stations. A six month free trial period is activated upon initial login with a Facebook account, where you can listen to an unlimited amount of music. After the trial, Spotify will have a listening limit of ten hours per month. You also have the option to upgrade to premium, where there are no ads or time limits. Premium also introduces extra features such as higher bitrate streaming, offline access to music and mobile app access. An active Facebook account is required to use Spotify. After you listen to new songs or make a playlist, it will be posted to your Facebook wall so your friends can see it and get music suggestions for their own Spotify use. Since the first six months are free, you might as well download it and give it a try. You will get to hear all the music you love and discover some new artists. Cost: Free for regular use, $4.99 a month for unlimited, $9.99 a month for premium Where: Download from online Staffer: Kenzie Floyd

13 Reasons Why

Choosing a book for a best of the year pick may seem nerdy, but if you’ve read the book, you’ll agree. Written by Jay Asher, 13 Reasons Why is the story of Hannah Baker, a troubled high school student whose life is turned upside down by a dramatic chain of events. The story is told from the point-of-view of one of her peers, Clay Jensen. As long as he could remember, Clay had a crush on Hannah, but shortly after he had finally found the courage to talk to her, she overdosed on prescription medication. The novel begins on Clay’s doorstep. He finds a shoebox filled with seven cassette tapes without a return address. As he puts the first tape into his dad’s old stereo, Hannah’s voice spills through the speakers. A voice Clay hasn’t heard in two weeks. “Hello, boys and girls. Hannah Baker here. I hope you’re ready, because I am about to tell you the story of my life. More specifically, why my life ended. And if you’re listening to these tapes, you’re one of the reasons why.” Separated by each side of the tape, it’s organization makes the book entertaining to read. As if finding out “who did what” wasn’t enough to hook your interest. Asher does an amazing job at building suspense and giving the book emotion. Through his writing, you develop a close connection with all of the characters. This book has given me a new perspective on how my actions effect others and life itself. Cost: $10.99 Paperback Where: Amazon Online, Books-A-Million, Target Staffer: Ashlyn Hurst

MLS Soccer Game Soccer. What are the reasons to not like it? There is fast paced action, screaming fans, hard hits and passion beyond belief. I see no reason to not enjoy the beautiful game. This year I went to a Seattle Sounders game. They are my favorite MLS soccer team and it was incredibly amazing. It was my first real league game to go to and being in the action was almost too much to take in. It’s one thing watching a game on TV, but being surrounded by 28 thousand screaming is a whole other thing. That game may have been in Seattle, but not to far away from us FC Dallas plays in Coca Cola Park. Dallas is currently 6th in the Western Conference with a record of 3-3-3. Coca Cola Park is not known for a large amount of fans coming to the games, but each game is guaranteed to be loud and maybe even a little rowdy. If you have never been to a professional soccer game you should definitely check one out. Soccer is not, against what most Americans would think, a sissy sport. They really are professional athletes that train and play very hard. This beautiful game is something everyone should give a chance. If you love sports, friends, and having more fun than your other friends, you should go to an professional soccer game. Cost: Around $80 Where: Closest is in Dallas at Coca Cola Park Staffer: Josh Whitt

Logos Quiz

World Of Dance If you’re a fan of urban dancing, World of Dance tour is the place to go. The World of Dance Tour is the largest International Urban Dance Competition taking place in 14 major markets across the globe, with focus on the art of street dancing and today’s new aged choreography. It promises to deliver an unparalleled experience in effort to build the reputation in Urban Dance and Lifestyle. As a dancer attending the World of Dance in Dallas earlier this month, The World of Dance experience fuses together free standing competitions involving multiple formats of “urban” dance. Whether you are a versed choreography team, a competitive duet, or a free styling dance individual, The World of Dance Tour has a competition for you. The competition varies from Choreography, Break Dancing, Krumping, Housing, and many more. Even if you’re not a dancer and you go as a spectator, The World of Dance not only features localized and globally renowned urban dancers from all over the world and champions and contenders from the televised series, America’s Best Dance Crew on MTV, but also features several entertainment zones creating a unique lifestyle experience. By weaving together industries like clothing, art, fashion, and music, The World of Dance has become an event of endless entertainment for all to experience. Cost: $25 and $50 ($25 if you buy the ticket before the show, $50 if you buy the ticket at the door) Where: Dallas, Houston, Los Angles, San Diego, San Francisco, Miami, Vancouver, Toronto, Chicago, Boston, Seattle, Montreal and Hawaii Staffer : Naveed Haque

Chili Peppers Live

You watch commercials on TV everyday. Car commercials, hair product commercials, food commercials. And as you watch those commercials, you see a logo. This logo stands out, it’s special in its own way. And the question is, do you think you can name all the best companies based on their logos? Logos quiz is a new game that is starting to get really big. The game starts off with an obvious level one. All you have to do is type in the company name. After getting about 20 or so right, level two is unlocked. As you unlock new levels, logos get harder and harder, it no longer is the McDonald’s of companies and now the extremely strange Spanish phone companies that you have never heard of. As you score more and more points for the right answer on the first attempt, you get more hints. Hints can be used to help on any logos that you don’t have a clue on. There are eight levels and over 500 logos. Although this game sounds like a simple and somewhat boring game, it isn’t, trust me. I thought that the game would be boring until I actually started playing it. I was immediately destined to get all of the logos right, even if that meant I had to sneak around class and ask people if they knew what certain logos were. All in all I give this game a solid 4 out of 5 stars. This game will actually cause you to interact with your parents due to the number of old timey logos. And you won’t drop your phone until you have gotten 100 percent on all eight levels.

The stage darkens and the crowd grows silent. Suddenly, a heavy barrage of bass notes rip through the air as the Red Hot Chili Peppers begin their performance. The Red Hot Chili Peppers were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame this April, and their performance didn’t disappoint. Calling this a concert wouldn’t do it justice. Every song performed was perfect, and the helter-skelter action on stage made it simply amazing to watch. While the band sounds good in their recordings, you can really see the true musical genius of the band live in concert. That was what I was there for, my family had decided to fly over to Europe just so we could see the band play. They hadn’t released the tour dates for the US yet, so we took this opportunity to go see them. The performance was absolutely great, and the crowd demanded an encore once the group finished their show. The band was happy to oblige, and those familiar with the group may be thinking of their ‘special’ treatment. If you really want to learn if they donned the socks, you’ll need to go to a concert yourself. Words can’t describe how amazing the group is live, but luckily for us all, the band has released its US tour schedule, and will be performing in a city near you.

Cost: Free Where: App store, apple products only, iPhone, iPad Staffer: Kyle Green

Cost: $40-60 Where: San Antonio, Dallas, Houston, and Little Rock Staffer: Mark Northam

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Margaret Davis has been superintendent at Pleasant Grove longer than the current seniors have been in school. Almost twice as long. In her 40 year career in education, Mrs. Davis has worked at PG for 31 years, first teaching and then serving as Assistant Superintendent and then Superintendent. She is also active at the state level, having served on advisory committees for the Texas Education Agency and as a member of the council for the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.

01 02

How long have you been superintendent? 22 years Do you have any funny stories from being a teacher? I had a dog named Killer. He was a Dachshund given to me by one of my students. The boy said his dog had puppies, and I said something along the lines of ‘that’s nice,’ and six weeks later I had a little Dachshund puppy in my classroom to go home with me.

If you could live anywhere but here, where would it be? Austin is my second favorite city other than Texarkana. Other than that it would be some exotic place far away in the world.

What is your favorite app? Oh my gosh, the Texarkana Gazette. I use it so much. I always want to see what they say.

How can you tell when you run out of invisible ink? Because people stop responding.

Where did you go to college? I’m a graduate of Texas Tech with a degree in eduction.

Did you ever have a teacher who picked on you? Only in a good way, and it was Mrs. Cooley. She was one of my high school teachers.

08 09

What was the most embarrassing thing that ever happened to you? Probably falling down at PGHS. I was in a rush to get to a pep rally, and my heel got stuck in a crack and I fell over like dominos. Who was your favorite band growing up? The Beatles. They were different and a challenge to the older generation.

Who influences you the most now, and why? Actually it’s just my inner conscience that influences me now. After years of experience, it’s more of intrinsic action rather than trying to please others.

with

questions Margaret Davis

If you had unlimited money, what all would you buy? I would do a lot of things for the school district because of budget cuts. I’ve gotten to the age where I have all the things and toys I want to take care of.

16 17

When you were growing up, what did you want to be? I always wanted to be a teacher because when I grew up there weren’t many options for girls, and I loved my friends and teachers and wanted to help others. Fortunately there are many options now. Describe yourself in a single sentence. I am a caring person who wants to help others who can make tough decisions. If we count sheep to go to sleep, what do they count? Probably stars. What does OK actually mean? Everything’s all right.

What did you do when you graduated from high school?

When Mrs. Davis graduated from high school, she went directly into college. “It seemed like the next day,” she said. “I started college during the Vietnam War and my husband was stationed in Okinawa. I moved to Okinawa to work for the Green Berets.” When she returned to the United States, she got her Bachelors Degree in teaching from Texas Tech University. She was the first migrant education teacher in Idalou, Texas, around the time that the state started a program for migrant workers’ children. “I left that program to become a regular teacher for two years before my husband’s job had us move back

to Texarkana.” She moved to Pleasant Grove in 1981. At that time, the district only had grades 1-9. Mrs. Davis then attended East Texas State University (now Texas A&M-Texarkana) for her Master’s Degree As she moved into administration, she was here during the time that the district built a high school and added grades 10-12. The high school opened in the fall of 1986. “I was assistant superintendent at the time,” she said, “and it has been very rewarding to see Pleasant Grove students graduate and become successful.”

How often are you late for work? Well, my hours are not set. I guess you could say I’m never late because my work never leaves me.

What is a movie that you hate but everyone else seems to love? Hunger Games. It’s troubling to me but it’s highly popular. I saw it because I feel like I have to stay in the loop with students.

Read the title very carefully: “Star Wars”. It’s okay, it happens all the time. Well, not really.

As Assistant Superintendent, Mrs. Davis presents an award to senior Brian Monte at the 1988 Senior Awards Assembly. (1988 Hawk Yearbook)

What was your first car? A silver Mustang. That was in 1965, and it was a standard. I now have one that is standard and automatic.

Where would your dream vacation be? I’d like to spend some time in Europe. For many years I spent all of my vacation time at Big Cedar Lodge in Missouri.

What was your favorite memory? Well, I hope I haven’t had my favorite yet, and I don’t think I have just one favorite. I have many happy memories.

21questions

see you next year

page14

Keeping

Score

Q&A with Trey Hart

What position do you play? I play first and third always. Why and when did you start baseball? I started when I was five years old. I played everything, so I just started baseball. How do you think the team is doing? Early off we were pretty rusty, but as the year went on we got better as a team and we got the little things right. Now we are in the middle of playoffs What are your expectations for your last playoff season? Win state. We’re going to win state. I would normally put money on it but that’s too risky for me.

Sports Trivia So you think you know all about sports? Test your knowledge right here. Who holds the record for the most NHL goaltender wins(656)? A. Martin Brodeur B. Jari Kurri C. Dale Hunter How long is the Tour De France(miles)? A. 5,503 B. 1,867 C. 2,162 Who is a qualified yoga instructor? A. Brett Favre B. Ricky Williams C. Ed Reed What is the best place America has finished in the soccer World Cup? A. Third B. First C. Sixth

on the edge

What is America’s most popular sport? A. Baseball B. Nascar C. Football What is the oldest sport in the world? A. Wrestling B. Ulama C. Soccer

Curtis Zachry reporter

Thirteen seasons, 300 wins, one coach. After all these years coach Craig Jones has seen the ups and downs and knows that this is a special senior class. ‘‘These guys have really been hard workers and have won a lot of games and I’m going to miss them,” Jones said. ‘‘I have a special bond with all my seniors but this group of guys has always been more focused on the team and that’s why they have won so much, self sacrifice.” The Hawks are 30-5 and have won their first two playoff series, defeating Forney 10-0 and Mabank 7-0, 3-0. “We are a really talented and experienced team and I think that if we keep working hard and stay focused we have a good shot to make it back to state,” senior Melvin Gray said. ‘‘Everyone on the team has sacrificed a lot and we have really come together. We know what our goal is so we are going to achieve it.” While Jones is focused on playoffs, he realizes that what he is doing is bigger than teaching them how to play a game. “I try to teach them about life and how to be a man,” Jones said. “I teach them to always be early to things and if you work hard and do something right it will pay off. I try to make sure they know how to handle themselves in every situation life may throw at them.” Jones has coached hundreds of players come over the An emotional head baseball coach Craig Jones waives to the fans as he accepts his 300 wins award plauqe. years and while he can tell you a little about each of them, Every year he coaches the guys the same, he doesn’t care who the player they can tell you a lot more about him. is or how good he is. He coaches everyone the same.” “Coach Jones was my high school coach, and I’ll never forget some of Several players acknowledge that baseball after coach Jones always the lessons he taught me,” assistant coach Greyson Requarth said. “He seem to be missing something. helped me become an adult and taught me a lot more than baseball.” “It’s going to be weird when I go to college to play for someone else. After 13 years ,Jones still coaches the same way he did when he started. I can’t imagine taking ground balls from anyone else,” senior Melvin “It’s crazy how he uses the same sayings with the team now the he Gray said. “This year means a lot to me because it’s my last chance to used eight years ago,” Requarth said. “Every time he tells the guys to win a state ring, and if I could win one my last season with coach Jones focus, that they can talk on AOL tonight, it brings back memories.” that would be like the perfect ending to my high school baseball career.” Coach Jones won his 300th game as the Hawks head coach and was After all these years coach Jones is still as excited about coming to honored with a plaque commemorating the accomplishment. Several work as his first day. former players showed up to watch their former coach receive the award. “It is best feeling when I get to come to work with such an awesome “When I won my 300th game it was a real special moment but when group of young men and help them grow,” Jones said. “Seeing my boys they presented me with my award about a week later I got really choked grow from immature freshmen into young men and knowing I helped is up,” Jones said. “It was really special because a lot of guys from previous why I coach. The wins and everything are neat but the reason I coach is years showed up. Some guys from my first season here as a coach–back for my players, not for records.” then they were just kids but now I look at them and I see young men. The Hawks will play Prosper at North Lamar Thursday night and That’s all you can ask for as a coach.” then a double header on Saturday, if necessary, trying to make it back In 13 seasons, the baseball team has never missed the playoffs. to state for the fifth year in a row under the coach who has seen it all. “Craig knows how to get the most out of his guys,” athletic director “Managers come and go, rules change, and players leave,” Requarth Kevin Davis said. “The team has made it so many years it’s almost hard said. “But coach Jones is always going to be the same.” to believe. It’s a testament to how hard he and the team work every year.

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Coach records 300th win as the Hawks travel the playoff road once again

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BOYS’ BASKETBALL

The Edge’s top pick

top Hawks Josh Whitt

sports editor

Kyle Green reporter

Curtis Zachry

Junior Dustin Thomas Dustin Thomas stood out among the rest in a record setting season. As a dominating power forward Dustin led the team on a 20-game win streak and also to first place in district. Dustin was named the district’s Most Valuable Player.

VOLLEYBALL

CROSS COUNTRY

FOOTBALL

reporter

From district championships to post-season honors, PG athletes excelled in almost every sport. The Edge sports experts combed the files to come up with our picks for the Top Hawks. Here are our results.

BASEBALL

GIRLS’ TENNIS

The Edge’s runner-up

Senior Abby Pickett Abby Pickett was named to the All District First Team. Abby led the team through a tough season and eventually to the Lady Hawks 16th playoff berth in a row. Abby Pickett received a scholarship to play at Ouachita Baptist University.

BOYS’ TENNIS

Senior Bryan Zach Bryan Zach competed in boys’ singles and doubles throughout the year. Bryan and sophomore Travis Alkire placed first in doubles and singles in district. Bryan advanced to regionals but was knocked out in the first round.

BOYS’ SOCCER

Junior Luke Bultemeier Leading the team to their fourth playoff run in a row, Luke scored two goals and was also named on the second team All District squad. Luke is now one of the three captains and hopes to use his leadership to bring another playoff run.

Freshman Sostenes Sanchez Sostenes “Salsa” Sanchez came to cross country in a flurry. Being a freshman and just 5’2”, he was not always that menacing, but once he started running people realized he was a force to be reckoned with. Sostenes advanced to regionals as an individual and with the team.

BOYS’GOLF

Junior Jacob Rochelle The Hawks lost five seniors last year which turned this year into a rebuilding season. Although the season was not what Jacob wanted, he hopes that he and his teammates can get better during the summer and fall and come back next year and return to state.

GIRLS’ BASKETBALL

Senior Shanteka Henry Although the Lady Hawks had a tough season, Shanteka Henry still played her hardest to help carry the team through thick and thin. With a very small and young team lots of the players looked up to Shanteka.

Senior Timothy Buchanan

Senior Hannah Brownlee

In a slow year for the Hawks, Lucas led the team in tackles. Lucas was the star of the defense throughout the year even after coming back from an injury. Lucas is attending Wyoming University on a football scholarship.

Timothy Buchanan has become the leading pitcher for the Hawks since last year. Timothy’s left arm has carried the Hawks through the season and now into playoffs. The baseball team is still playing and awards have not yet been released.

Hannah Brownlee competed in the mixed doubles with senior Mathew Montes. In a pretty tough district Hannah was one of only two girls to advance to regionals for the Lady Hawks.

GIRLS’ GOLF

POWERLIFTING

GIRLS’ SOCCER

Senior Lucas Wacha

Freshman Chelsea Cole

Freshman Brittany Lessard

Junior Collin Craytor

Brittany Lessard came to Pleasant Grove after playing golf for six years. The experience she had paid off as she consistently shot in the low 90’s, placed first in one of her tournaments, and advanced to regionals. She aims to go to state next year after placing fifth in district and 18th in regionals.

Collin Craytor had a big chance to compete this year in powerlifting, and he did. After placing in five invitational meets, he competed in the district meet. There he was able to place in the top ten for his weight class, advancing to regionals. Next year he looks to go to state.

Chelsea Cole led the team to their second playoff berth in a row. Chelsea had a school record of 24 goals and was also named the Freshman of the Year by the Texarkana Gazette.

SOFTBALL

GIRLS’ TRACK

BOYS’ TRACK

Sophomore Matt Day Matt Day, sophomore, placed first in district and was the only boy to advance to regionals on the track team. Day has been fighting an injury to his hip and is hoping to continue his pole-vaulting success throughout next year.

Junior Katie Brolo Katie Brolo used her height and speed in center field to help carry the team to only their second appearance in playoffs in school history. Katie is hoping to continue breaking records on into next year.

Freshman Michala Terrell Michala Terrell advanced to regionals in the 800 meter and also the mile run, and she also competed in pole vaulting. Michala is only a freshman and has plenty of time to improve and maybe get a chance at the state level.

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