VOLUME 75 ISSUE 3
TUPELO HIGH SCHOOL
4125 GOLDEN WAVE DRIVE, TUPELO, MISSISSIPPI 38801
THE HI TIMES
NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2016 A STUDENT NEWSPAPER INDEX : NEWS...2
FEATURES...4
OPINIONS...6
SPORTS...7
KEYWANNA ROGERS
ART&ENTERTAINMENT...8
FEEDING PEOPLE MEAL BY MEAL Keywanna Rogers @keyylashay Sports Editor Thanksgiving Day is a day where everyone should express how they are thankful for their lives, as well as how thankful they are for the people in it. Nowadays, many people think of Thanksgiving as a reason for students to get out of school for a certain period of time, just simply eating Thanksgiving food all week long; or for some a reminder to let them know Christmas is near. But for the Salvation Army, Thanksgiving Day is all about providing for those in need. All across the country, Salvation Army is known for helping people who are in need of a filling meal; not just on holidays, but everyday. They regularly serve nice, warm dinners and lunches through their many soup kitchens, sit-down meal programs, food pantries, mobile meals, and community gardens. To some, these simple meals like these are often taken for granted, but others take them as blessings. In Tupelo, every year on Thanksgiving Day, with the help of many volunteers throughout the community, the Salvation Army serves food to those who cannot afford to provide it for themselves and or their families. Some of the volunteers even transport the food to those who cannot make their way to the shelter. This year, the annual community Thanksgiving Day free luncheon was held from 10:30 a.m. to 1 p.m at the Salvation Army’s gym on Carnation Street in Tupelo. Not wanting to exclude anyone, the event www.djournal.com was open to all. Last year, the Salvation Army members and volunteers served and fed about 3,500 people meals at the facility; some also transported the meals to different areas around town. This year they served about 3,200 people. They prepared some of the food a couple days before Thanksgiving, but they did not actually cook it until it got closer to Thanksgiving Day. They even had to prepare more food on the day of, because they had a feeling that they were going to run out due to all the people that were lined outside of the gymnasium early Thursday morning. The Salvation Army always has a lot of volunteers that come to help out, ranging from high school students,retired workers, employed workers, retired veterans, local church members, local residents, etc. On November 24th, Thursday morning, the volunteers started coming in around 5:45 a.m. to start prepping for the holiday meal. The menu included traditional Thanksgiving food, such as turkey and dressing, casseroles, cranberry sauce, mashed potatoes with gravy, dinner rolls, drinks, and numerous desserts like sweet potato pie, caramel cake and strawberry cheesecake. Bar-B-Q-by-Jim provided them with 100 turkeys the day before Thanksgiving, and Romie’s provided the variety of desserts. They loaded up their mobile trucks with plates and delivered them to people in need before Thanksgiving came to an end. According to the Salvation Army staff, food had been delivered to most of the Tupelo area before midnight. “I am a member of the Salvation Army Church and I have been for almost three years now” said sophomore Joseph Arnold. “and every year, I have volunteered to help with the food drive. I like volunteering, because sometimes you meet interesting people with fascinating stories. It is also great for community service hours.” After helping out at the Salvation Army, most volunteers return to their own families to enjoy their Thanksgiving Day with the people they are most thankful for.
IT’S CHRISTMAS TIME Jalysia Coleman @Jalysiaaaa Staff Writer
The 68th Annual Reed’s Tupelo Christmas Parade was held on Friday, December 2nd at 7:00 p.m. It began on the corner of Main Street and ended by the Bancorp South Arena. The parade was aired on numerous television providers, such as DirectTV, Comcast, and Dish Network. There were many different floats showcased throughout the parade, to name a few: Scruggs, D’Casa, Daily Journal, North Mississippi Dance Center, and Friends of Oren Dunn. Not only were floats included, but groups such as Girl Scouts, Tupelo High School Interact Club, walked by foot. Bands from Itawamba www.tupelomainstreet.com Community College, THS, Shannon High School, Mooreville High School, and Baldwyn High School performed in the parade and played well known Christmas songs for everyone to enjoy as the parade took place. There were people smiling, laughing, and enjoying each others’ company. On one corner, a group of Boy Scouts were dancing to a version of “Santa Claus is Coming to Town,” that was playing from a passing float; while members of Delta Academy and Gems were singing along and clapping. People everywhere were wrapped up and bundled together in blankets and covers because of the freezing temperature. Several people were lined up on every street, close together, trying to stay very warm. People sported hats, gloves, earmuffs, scarves, and big fluffy jackets, trying their very best to stay warm. Throughout the parade, multiple floats and walking groups tossed lots of candy to the kids that were seated along the sidewalks; eagerly looking forward to seeing Santa Claus’ float that came at the very end.The kids really enjoy seeing Santa and running to catch the candy that is offered for them to enjoy. Calvary Baptist Church of Tupelo served free hot chocolate with cookies, and their praise band played before the parade began. People all over Tupelo and surrounding areas came to see the show. “My favorite float was the one with Santa Claus at the very end of the parade because I loved seeing the little kids’ faces light up when it passed by,” said Brandi Reynolds. “I love eating the traditional Christmas dinner and being with family; giving away and receiving presents is the best.” But, her favorite thing to do during the Christmas holiday is going to the candlelight every year on Christmas Eve. The parade seemed to get much of the crowd in the Christmas spirit. Having people smiling, eating, and reacting in the Christmas Parade proves that there are still more to come.
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NEWS
WHAT’S HAPPENIN’
• November 4 Tupelo Football vs. @ Olive Branch, 7 p.m. • November 6 Daylight Savings Time Ends • November 8 Election Day • November 11 Veteran’s Day • November 11 Tupelo Football vs. @ Northwest Rankin, 7 p.m. • November 18 Tupelo Football vs. Madison Central, 7 p.m. • November 21 Thanksgiving Break Begins • November 24 Thanksgiving Day • November 25 Black Friday • November 25 Thanksgiving Break Ends
NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2016
• December 2 Tupelo Basketball vs. Pontotoc, 7 p.m. • December 6 Tupelo Basketball vs. Aberdeen, 7 p.m. • December 9 Tueplo Basketball vs. Grenada, 7 p.m. • December 15-16 Final Exams • December 16 Christmas Break Begins • December 21 Winter Begins • December 23 Sremmfest 2016 @ Bancorpsouth Arena, 7 p.m. • December 24 Christmas Eve • December 25 Christmas Day • December 26 Boxing Day • December 31 New Year’s Eve • December 31 THS Winter Formal @Summit Center, 9 p.m.-12 a.m.
THE HI-TIMES
SOME SEASONAL TOUGH LOVE Whitney Campbell @whit_alexc Business Manager Usually Halloween is the holiday to make costumes and play dress up, but not for Louis Armour of Tupelo, who enjoys dressing up in his costume made to replicate the Christmas movie character “The Grinch,” every December. Armour is a costume and makeup fanatic that has been designing and casting masks since he was in the eighth grade. It all started when Armour’s daughter invented a character meant to go with the tale of “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer,” “Ramuis the White Tailed Reindeer.” Both Armour and his daughter would go to The Mall at Barnes Crossing and spread the holiday cheer whenever they could. After a few years of not dressing up with his daughter, he decided that it was time to make a costume of his own to join her in the fun. COURTESY OF TINA MAXWELL Wanting to be unique and create a costume that is rarely seen during the holidays, Armour Armour poses on his sleigh during the parade with his wife decided on the Grinch. In just two weeks, Armour (Martha) sitting beside him. had designed and constructed a very realistic Grinch mask and body-suit. “People don’t expect the Grinch and they get so excited,” said Armour. Over the past few years, Armour and his daughter, who has now changed her costume to match with her father’s, have been speaking at schools all around northern Mississippi; and on occasion, will stop by local hospitals to see the kids. Wanting to participate in the Annual Reed’s Tupelo Christmas Parade, Armour and his good friend Victor Armstrong decided to make the Grinch’s junky sleigh to ride on for the parade. Using a lot of junkyard parts and imagination, the sleigh came to life and was ready to ride-- complete with its own robotic dog posing as the Grinch’s dog “Max.” Armour and his family have been in the Annual Reed’s Tupelo Christmas Parade for years for other organizations, but the first time they entered with the sleigh complete, they won first place. A few years later, for the 64th Annual Reed’s Tupelo Christmas Parade on December 2, 2016, they won first place for the second time in a row for best non-profit float, as they won last year as well. “Winning is icing on the cake,” Armor stated. Armour was happy to win first place, because this year they did not walk alone; the cosplay group “The Socially Awkward Timelords” joined the Armours by dressing up (cosplaying) as the Whos from Whoville. Armour considers himself the “original cosplayer of Tupelo,” as cosplaying is where a person makes a costume themselves as any character they want and wears it for an occasion-- which is what he has been doing since his childhood. This new twist to a Christmas celebration is very fun and enjoyed by not only children, but adults as well.
MAKE IT RAIN
• November 28 Cyber Monday • December 2 Reed’s Annual Christmas Parade @ Downtown Tupelo, 7 p.m.
TUPELO HIGH SCHOOL
Whitney Campbell @whit_alexc Business Manager When an area goes through a dry spell, which means it has not gotten rain in a number of days, and the surrounding plant-life are vulnerable to even the small embers of a flame; it is likely that the particular region is going to have a burn ban. When a burn ban is put on a county or region, it is taken very seriously by the government and those who violate the ban can face many consequences, such as being fined money. The ban means that, under no circumstances is a fire allowed www.wtva.com outdoors. There should be no bonfires, no campfires, and no fireworks. Absolutely no fire, period. A burn ban is strict to avert wildfires and keep the environment healthy, as well as the towns and townspeople safe. The ban is set and assigned by the Mississippi Forestry Commission and state governor. The governor is also the person who, when seen appropriate, is allowed to lift or set an expiration date on the ban. There are a few exceptions to some burn bans, where certain fires may be allowed. At local chemical plants, for example, exceptions are not common sights. Some are not aware of it, but over half of Mississippi’s counties, with the exemptions of specific southern counties, are currently under burn bans. Some of these counties have even yet to see a lift. Lee county has been under a burn ban for over a month now, since October 3; and even though there have been a few rainy days and stormy nights in the past few weeks, there seems to be no move to lift the ban quite yet. The Lee county burn ban has no set expiration date and will be lifted by governor Phil Bryant when it appears safe to do so. The soonest ban expiration date that has been established for some counties is December 5, which will include the counties of Calhoun, Franklin, Jefferson Davis, Lawrence, Perry, and Walthall. And the latest expiration date is as far away as January of next year. Rain is the honest answer to resolve Mississippi’s present drought, so if people continue to water their yards and keep them healthy, when more rain comes to north Mississippi, the bans will hopefully be lifted earlier than the set dates and citizens will be able to burn barrels and pop fireworks to their heart’s content. But in the meantime, while the ban is still in tact, the Lee county community can help prevent wildfires like the one recently seen in Gatlinburg, Tennessee, by simply following the requests of the ban and avoiding the makings of outdoor fires.
NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2016
TUPELO HIGH SCHOOL
THE HI-TIMES
FEATURES
SMALL TOWN GIRL, EVEN BIGGER DREAMS Keywanna Rogers @keyylashay Sports Editor
This year has been a very great year for Tupelo High School’s Lady Wave Basketball. And senior Alayjah Sherer has played a huge role in their success. She will soon be advancing her talents as a high school basketball player to a division one basketball player. She is now ready for any challenges she may face as she transitions from playing a sport in high school to playing one in college. It’s official! The 5’10’’, 174 lb. guard/forward signed with East Tennessee State Women’s Basketball on November 9. “I’m a little nervous because it’s far from home,”said Sherer “but I am also very excited about the opportunity.” Sherer had numerous offers from other colleges, such as Southeast Missouri State, Southern Mississippi, and East Carolina, but standing out from the others, she chose to further her talents at East Tennessee. “I have had other division one offers, but I feel very comfortable with my decision to go to East Tennessee” said Sherer. “I connected with all of the coaches at ETSU and they have a good conference, where I could see myself being in the near future.” Sherer has been playing basketball for Tupelo since her eighth grade year at Tupelo Middle School. She has accomplished a lot since she began her basketball dream. She was named the Top Player to Watch List her freshman through junior year. She was named to the all-state team her
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junior year, being named best player in all district and state, played in the North/South All-Star Basketball Game in the spring of 2016 , and was named the No. 3 forward in Mississippi in 2015. An accomplishment that she was shocked about was being named one of the 2016 Dandy Dozen. “It is an honor because I honestly wasn’t expecting it. I knew I was good, but I didn’t know that I was good enough to be named a Dandy Dozen.” Sherer said. A basketball player always has an KEYWANNA ROGERS idol or a motivation that Senior Alayjah Sherer practices free throws for the upcoming keeps them going or causes them to do what game. they do best. Sherer’s and handling herself in difficult reasons for why she chose basketball situations during games, but that has are helping her achieve her dreams. changed throughout the years. “I lost three family members “My strengths now are my free all in the same car accident so my throws and finishing” said Sherer “My motivation is my family, especially weakness is controlling my breathing.” my uncle who also played basketball.” Sherer is the only senior on Sherer said “My father is also my this year’s 2016-2017 varsity girls’ motivation because his career was cut basketball team. But, being the only short due to my parents having me senior does not affect her work. in high school. I also look up to many “I don’t feel any particular way different players for many different because we are all one family. I do aspects that I can mimic to make me have more leadership being a senior,” better.” said Sherer. Many players have weaknesses Sherer promises that since this and strengths. Sherer’s weaknesses season is her last, she will definitely and strengths have advanced since her first year playing with Tupelo. Her make the most of it. weaknesses were once staying focused
WORKING HER WAY UP Jalysia Coleman @Jalysiaaaa Staff Writer Elizabeth Autry is an English III teacher at Tupelo High School. She is originally from Bruce, Mississippi but currently resides here in Tupelo. She graduated from Bruce High School in 2001 and went on to further her education at the University of Mississippi where she received a bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education with an English Endorsement for Secondary Education. She enjoyed the working with the other teachers, as well as building personal relationships with students and families, and the students’ overall love for school and learning. Autry taught kindergarten for her first six years of teaching, but has recently transitioned to a high school teacher, teaching only students in the eleventh grade. “The major difference between JALYSIA COLEMAN kindergarten and high school is the content.A Autry stops to pose for the camera. lot of kindergarten is teacher directed, whereas high school is more student centered learning,” said Autry. She believes that students are expected to take responsibility for their own learning as they prepare for college and future careers. “I was ready for a change; both of my children are in elementary at Rankin Elementary School where I started my teaching career,” she explained. Autry enjoys her own children so much more when she does not teach students who are the same age as hers. After her home was damaged by the tornado that came through Tupelo in April 2014, she and her husband decided to move to North Carolina, where his family is originally from. There, she worked at Childcare Academy, diligently focusing her teaching efforts only on early childhood. Autry’s love for teaching and learning is not confined to any specific age group. Although it has always been her dream to teach at the high school level, she has enjoyed all of her teaching experiences. “High school is very different from my previous experiences, in good ways of course, but I still can not imagine doing anything else with my life!” she exclaimed. One of Autry’s students spoke very highly of her. “I think Mrs. Autry is very supportive and very caring to each individual that she teaches. She is the type of teacher who takes that extra mile to make sure every student understands each element of English III,” said junior Katie Cox. “The students are much more self-sufficient in high school,” she explained. Even though her students now are just half of her age, she still feels as though nurturing is a big part of her role as their teacher. She reflected back to an event that she recently attended, “Riney Jordan spoke at the opening ceremony this year and shared his philosophy that we as teachers are here to H.E.L.P. This rang true for me and I was so encouraged to have a shared philosophy with such a distinguished leader of the educational community.” ”It is our job,” informed Jordan, “to hear, encourage, love, and prepare them for life beyond the classroom.” Working with students so close to entering the world and so near to being contributing members of society is a big responsibility, and Autry has proven to be eager to see where life takes each and every one of her students.
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FEATURES
NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2016
TUPELO HIGH SCHOOL
THE HI-TIMES
MAKING “GLORIA”OUS DIFFERENCES
Tayolor Witherspoon @TayolorJay Editor-In-Chief Gloria Jarrell is an interpreter at Tupelo High School. Jarrell has been interpreting for 16 years, but has worked for THS, at different times, for about 10 years. Her job on an everyday basis is to facilitate communication between teachers and hearing impaired students at the high school. Known around campus as “Ms. G.,” she is adored by many at THS. Originally from Red Bay, AL, she relocated to Fulton, MS about 25 years ago. She attended Red Bay High School and graduated from Itawamba Community College, earning her bachelor’s degree in Interpreting; and is currently winding up a degree in Nutrition from The University KEYWANNA ROGERS of Mississippi. Mother of three and grandmother of four, Jarrell has much Jarell shyly smiles for the camera. experience in the nurturing department. She has been a teacher, role model, mentor, friend, and even mother to both past and present students and staff of THS. She makes it a habit to always look on the brighter side, “I know how it feels when people look the other way,” said Jarrell. And over just a few short years, she has made an impact on the lives of others in numerous ways by maintaining such a positive mindset. An average day for Jarrell consists of enjoying TA and lunch with some of the students; talking sports and helping them out with their ordinary teenage problems. When class is not in session, you can usually find her at three locations: in the courtyard by the gym side door or in the courtyard between I and F buildings; and when it is cold outside, sitting on the couch at the top of A building. More than likely, there will be a crowd of students surrounding her, laughing and smiling; what she is known to make people do often. “My grandmother told me a long time ago, to leave people better, not bitter; and the only way you can do that is to pour yourself into people,” explained Jarrell. Jarrell believes that being a teacher is more than just teaching them a school lesson, it includes teaching them life lessons as well. “G has taught me how to love people unconditionally, despite their faults and that it is okay to give without receiving anything back.” said senior DeMiya McCoy. “I enjoy spending time with her at school, because she is funny and she listens to all of my issues-- while teaching me how to be a better young lady; I appreciate her.” In her spare time, she enjoys reading, avidly running, drawing, shopping, cooking, and trying out new restaurants. If you cannot find her doing any of those things, you can catch her at her permanent showroom at the Flea Market in Tupelo where she works her booth, Cajun Country, a private business that she has owned for two years. There, she sells her famous mixes, entrees, and desserts. Jarrell supports a young man in Uganda by the name of Cuba Dalton Apollo. Apollo is the owner and coordinator of El Shaddai Baby House, where he takes orphan children off the streets and back to the Baby House where they are sure to be safe and well taken care of. When she is able to, she sends money and speaks on Apollo’s behalf, in support of Apollo and his organization 141. Jarrell not only expresses her love for her job through her actions, but through words as well, “I work with some of the most amazing teachers at THS, but if you ask any teacher anywhere, we do it all for the kids.” she said. “I love the high school teachers, staff, and most importantly, I love my kids.” Former president of the Young Women Organization of the LDS Church, Elaine S. Dalton, once said “If you desire to make a difference in the world, you must be different from the world.” Through her fiery, distinctive passion for her job and her genuine love for people, Jarrell has won the hearts of many-- all while making a difference!
“INTERACT”ING FOR PURPOSE Bryan Kwag @KwagBryan Staff Writer The Interact Club was originally founded in 1905 by Paul P. Harris, an attorney from Chicago, Illinois. Some people know and call the club different names; for example, Rotary International, Interact club, or just Interact. The word “interact” was created by fusing the two words “international” and “action,” and those words define what this club is exactly about. But it is most known as Rotary because the original members chose this name because initially they rotated following weekly club meetings to each other’s offices, and within a year, the Chicago club became so large it became essential to adopt the now-common practice of a regular meeting place. This club offers the chance to make a difference, while working with others to change. Interact is a club for young people ages 12-18 who want to join together to tackle the issues in their community that they care most about. Their stated purpose is to bring together business and professional leaders in order
to provide humanitarian services, encourage high ethical standards in all vocations, and help build goodwill and peace in the world. Because of this, they do multiple activities to carry out hands-on service projects, make international connections, develop leadership skills, increase their world understanding, build friendship, and simply have fun, etc. Destiny Vaughn, a junior, is the president of Tupelo High School’s Interact Club; she has a vision for leading and to help others. When asked what the easiest and most difficult challenge is for her as president, she said, “The easiest part is to just get along with the others and meet new people, and the most difficult challenge is being sure that everybody is on the right track and has everything done.” She also plans to lead the club to participate in future activities and events, so that members can get a full experience on what it is like to take on some service projects. “We are supposed to be walking in the Christmas parade, and we are supposed to be going to different elementary schools to read
BRYAN KWAG
The president and vice-president of the Interact Club, junior Destiny Vaughn and senior Reed McNeil respectively. books to the students while helping teachers with their classes.” Not only does Vaughn want to be a big influence to the members of the Interact Club, but she also has her own vision to help her fellow members as well. Vaughn said, “I just want to lead them in the right direction, and I want to help and repay the community back.” To describe what Interact means to her, Vaughn said, “This club is all about helping the community and serving
others before yourself. Any help matters to us.” Connecting with different people can give one many understandings of how helping and leading has the ability to reach out to others, and that leads to memories that can be kept forever. Interact means a lot to not only Vaughn, but to all the others who participate in this club throughout the US, and will only continue to grow more and more.
NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2016
TUPELO HIGH SCHOOL
THE HI-TIMES
OPINIONS
FAT THURSDAY, BLACK FRIDAY
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Mary Preston Evers @marypreston_18 Staff Writer
Chaotic, pushy, crowded, long lines, short tempers, crying children, exasperated parents, and craziness – is Black Friday. Black Friday is a filthy beast of a holiday where you can be obnoxious, loud, and impatient and it be considered acceptable. There are sales upon sales, and sales that have sales on the day after Thanksgiving. For several years, the sales have been on the day after Thanksgiving, but now the sales have taken over the actual day of Thanksgiving. Instead of being thankful for what we have, we try to get more. The retail employees are scheduled to work rather than spend time with their families just for the company’s almighty dollar, with no regard to family gatherings. I visited Williamsburg, Virginia for the week of Thanksgiving www.clipartpanda.com with my grandmother and mother. While we were there, my mother and I decided to be brave and join the insane crowds for the many discounts. The highway entrances to the parking lot of a huge outdoor outlet mall were closed off prior to the Black Friday sales beginning at six p.m. on Thursday. There were only two entrances open, which added to the congestion on the roads. People fought over parking spots by cutting each other off, which added to the frustration and anticipation of finding the perfect discount. Per the local news channel, out of the total 150 officers in the Williamsburg police department, 100 were called out on duty for crowd control, safety, accidents, and theft. The lines leading into the popular stores such as Kate Spade, Michael Kors, Coach, Vineyard Vines, and Ralph Lauren Polo were snaked around the sidewalks, which blocked entrances to the other stores. Most were bundled in coats, hats, gloves, scarves, boots, and earmuffs to keep warm in the below freezing temperatures all while waiting in the long lines. During our long waits, my mother and I met very interesting people from all over the east coast. Some had traditions of family shopping excursions and at the same time, others had systems mapped out, including having one person stand in the checkout line, while the other person grabbed items from all over the store to bring back for purchase. One lady in the line gave us a word of advice to get in the checkout line with the young, seasonal employees,because they did not know what they were doing and would possibly sell you anything and may even stack the coupons. Overall, we purchased bags upon bags of things and finished our Christmas shopping. We were not quite sure how to fit everything in the car, yet through our mad packing skills, we were able to make use of every nook and cranny – including making room for a poinsettia my grandmother got for free. I enjoyed spending time shopping and waiting in outrageously long lines with my mother. We had our own personal adventure on the quest for bargains throughout the mall. We both had a feeling of excitement inside when we scored a bargain. Even if Black Friday is essentially taking over Thanksgiving, we can still hold on to family traditions and the opportunity of making new ones.
LET IT GROW Bryan Kwag @KwagBryan Staff Writer The weather is getting colder, people are wearing thicker clothing, and Thanksgiving will be here before we know it. But the No-Shave November movement is also trending in full effect. No Shave November, NSN, is a month-long journey in which participants refrain from shaving or grooming to raise cancer awareness. There is only one major rule for this movement, which is actually quite simple; it simply asks for one to put down the razor for 30 days and donate one’s monthly hair-maintenance expenses to the cause. Anyone can participate and set up his or her own personal fundraising page. To be honest, when I first heard about NSN, I did not know what the movement was really about. I did my research and got pretty interested in it. I thought that this idea was wonderful because it was creative, and it prompted people to be lazy for a good cause. I decided to participate in the movement and share it BRYAN KWAG with my grandpa, so we could both do it together. Putting down the razor and shaving cream for NSN. Now, personally, I never really liked shaving. I could not really shave in the first place due to only having a very tiny amount of facial hair, or none. But then, I heard that there was this myth that shaving makes one’s hair grow faster; therefore, I decided to test it out. I have only shaved once in my life, and I swore that I would never do it again. I was 13 at the time and wanted to try shaving after watching my grandpa do it with such ease. I clearly remember watching him bring the razor up to his cheekbone and straight down to his jawline. I saw him slowly work his way around his face until there was no shaving cream left. After he had finished, I got his supplies and began to try it on myself. First, I applied some of his shaving cream to my face. I really did not know what to do, so I basically made myself a white mask and laughed when I looked in the mirror and saw that I resembled a snowman. After that, I picked up the razor and mimicked what my grandpa had just performed. Or “attempted” to mimic at least. Instead, I ended up starting too close to the side of my nose and brought it down to the corner of my lip where the blade got caught. I tried pulling it out, but nothing happened except more pain and more blood dripping down the side of my face. Eventually, my mom heard me crying in pain. She took out the razor by cutting the skin that got caught in between the blades with a pair of scissors. My grandpa still laughs at me to this day and asks me if I shave, since I am 17 now. I still tell him the answer “no;” however, this year at Thanksgiving dinner, I am going to tell him I will not shave this month because it is “No-Shave November” month. Then, I will wait to see how he responds to that. NSN has not only encouraged people to raise awareness for cancer, but it has also brought people together to form a bond over something we can all do. Just let it grow!
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OPINIONS
NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2016
TUPELO HIGH SCHOOL
THE HI-TIMES
NAUGHTY OR NICE
Karlee Avery @karleeavery Chief Photographer Are people naughtier or nicer when the holidays are approaching? I feel like society as a whole is nicer because more people get into the giving spirit that fuels the holidays. I believe that some people are nicer in the way that they treat people in hopes of being treated the same way, while others just want to get back into someone else’s good graces. Even though it is usually too cold outside to properly function, the holidays happen to be my favorite times of the year. The holidays make me happy, so I tend to be nicer and have more patience; or so I like to think. I also feel that this applies to society in general. For example, if someone sees a homeless man at Walmart during the summer, that person is not very likely to give him anything. However, if someone sees the same man around Thanksgiving or Christmas, they might give www.clipartpanda.com him something, such as warm clothes, restaurant gift cards or similar items because they are in the giving spirit. Despite the cold weather, I still go out and see if I can do anything to help anyone in need. I went to Helping Hands in April a few years ago, and it was an awesome experience. If you want to volunteer in the community this winter, Helping Hands is a great place to start. Helping Hands is a food pantry for the homeless and those who are struggling financially. I saw kids come in with their parents almost every few minutes, and it was heartbreaking. Feel free to go up there on a Saturday and volunteer. They would more than likely love any extra hands. Kids tend to be nicer when the holidays are approaching because they want to make sure they get the presents they want. The threat of coal in stockings on Christmas morning is all too real for most kids around the world. I hated the thought of possibly waking up to coal instead of the gifts I had asked Santa for, so I would always make sure that I was acting decent enough around Thanksgiving and Christmas. I would like to say that I was overall a good kid, mainly because I have yet to wake up to coal in my stocking that hangs on the mantle above our fireplace. What a relief! In general, I would say the majority of society clean up their acts around the holidays, but there will always be a Grinch somewhere in the world; whether it be across the street or across oceans. For example, take Marv and Harry from Home Alone; they broke into Kevin’s house while his family was on vacation, so Kevin took it upon himself to get payback on the both of them. Marv and Harry can be seen as Grinches because they spread crime and worry instead of Christmas cheer. Thank goodness everyone is not like Marv and Harry because we as people would be in big trouble if everyone in the world were. Christmas is the jolliest time of the year, so make the most of it and avoid being a Grinch!
CHRISTMAS DECORATIONS: DO’S AND DONT’S Whitney Campbell @whit_alexc Business Manager
It is that time of the year again with jolly music and peppermint flavored everything. You are grocery shopping or walking through the mall and you hear jingle bells playing through the speakers, but yet, it’s only the first of November. It has always been a bother to certain people, including myself, how the Christmas festivities tend to begin before Thanksgiving, and sometimes even Halloween arrive. There is a fine line between a “too soon” and “just right” time to show off your love for the Christmas holiday. Just because the decorations are scattered throughout the stores all around town does not mean that you have to go buy them and encourage the premature hoopla. It is an outspoken and highly appreciated rule to wait and start spreading the Christmas spirit at least the day after Thanksgiving. When people start to celebrate Christmas a month or so too soon, they do not get the full effect of the holidays before it, that, to some, may be just as important. Though Christmas is a very exciting holiday for presents and family and friends to gather, Thanksgiving must not be ignored and replaced with Christmas. Just like there is a good reason to celebrate Christmas, there is also a good reason to commend Thanksgiving, as well. There are plenty of ways to prepare and get ready for Thanksgiving without skipping to the elf on the shelf; which, by the way, should not be used as WHITNEY CAMPBELL a Christmas decoration ever. Food is always a popular way to celebrate, along with A festively decorated Christmas tree. decorative turkeys and the festive cornucopia. It is important to celebrate Thanksgiving because it is a holiday meant for people to be aware of the things they have in their lives and take time to appreciate them, especially since a month later they go and receive plenty of gifts for Christmas. It is a holiday for generosity and gratefulness, not greed. Just like there is a “too soon” to put up decorations, there is a “too late,” as well. Everyone gets a bit lazy after Christmas Day with all of the food and/or enjoying their new gifts; but once Christmas is over, the decorations need to go back in the attic until next year, along with Christmas. We all want Christmas to last forever, and Mariah Carey’s famous, “All I Want For Christmas Is You” to be put on repeat; so two days after the holiday may be acceptable, but when you refuse to put your tree up over a week after it has passed, that is just plain sad. Because soon after comes the New Year celebrations, and you do not want to be that person or family that starts the new year off with a blow up Frosty the snowman outside along with other Christmas decorations spread all over the place. So, please do the world a favor and put them up until the next go ‘round!
NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2016
TUPELO HIGH SCHOOL
THE HI-TIMES
SPORTS
SOCCER DRIVES BALL TO SUCCESS
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Karlee Avery @karleeavery Chief Photographer Tupelo Golden Wave and Lady Wave Soccer have kicked off quite the season. Both soccer teams are 5-1-1 as of Dec. 7. “It’s been going pretty well,” said senior Ryan Rodgers. “We’ve only lost one game so far and that was this past weekend. We’ve only given up one goal the whole year. We’re playing well. Hopefully we can continue that.” Both Rodgers and senior Lexi Pund are excited to see what the rest of the season has in store. They both said that Madison Central is their main rival. Madison Central also has a 5-1-1 record KARLEE AVERY/CHIEF PHOTOGRAPHER as of Dec. 7, so they are neck and neck with Golden Senior Avery Batson attempts to make a goal. Wave and Lady Wave soccer. Although both teams have a long way to go on the road to playoffs, they are hopeful for what is to come. “We are looking forward to playoffs,” Rodgers said. “Playoffs is really fun to play in to compete for the state championship.” The girls have several things accomplished so far. “Our season has been positive so far,” said girls’ head coach Hannah Kimbrough. “We have a large group of girls this year with seven seniors. We had an early season loss to a talented Oxford team that kind of got our attention and was a learning experience. We had a great weekend in Jackson beating Northwest Rankin and tying Ocean Springs that helped give our girls confidence and prove to our girls that we can play with anyone in the state. We have been banged up with a few injuries. We look forward to the return of one of our senior leaders, Georgia Kate Crawford. She suffered a collarbone break in club season. She will only make us better on and off the field. We look forward to getting better each week and making a run for it in the end.” Coach Kimbrough has high expectations for this season. “Our expectations for the season are always high,” Kimbrough said. “Our number one desire is to win a state championship and should always be. The past three years we have not been able to get past Madison Central, so that’s a hurdle we are wanting to get over this year. Undefeated and no goals against in district play, to have successful weekends when we travel to Jackson, and ultimately we want to be competing for a ring at the end of the year.” On the subject of Madison Central being Lady Wave’s biggest rival, “We played them the best we have ever played them last year and fell short on a penalty kick,” Kimbrough said. “We enjoy the rivalry, and both teams are always going to bring their best against each other. They have had our number in the past, but it’s time for us to turn the tides.”
KNOCKIN’ ‘EM DOWN Mary Preston Evers @marypreston_18 Staff Writer Some sports are given all of the glory, but there are other sports that no one ever talks about, such as bowling. Bowling is usually never seen as a sport, rather a pastime for friends to enjoy. In contrast to this popular belief, bowling is actually a competitive, strategic, and time consuming sport. It takes practice, good coaching, and teamwork as would any other sport. Tupelo High School has its very own junior varsity and varsity bowling teams. The varsity team is made up of two sections -- boys and girls. They practice twice a week, meeting every Tuesday and Thursday for about two hours at Rebel Lanes Bowling Alley in Tupelo. They warm up for about five minutes at the start of every practice. Afterwards, the team plays several games against one another. Then, they average the scores together to equate the score before a meeting at the end of the practice. www.clipartpanda.com The team as a whole has at least one match a week. For matches, the guys’ and girls’ teams are divided up with three people per mini-team to bowl against another school. Also, there are three games in a match. The best bowler on the team plays last in each game. The coach, David Clayton, is excited for this upcoming season. He said, “It is a good year for the boys’ team and I expect them to attend state. The girls have improved a lot and have a good shot for state, too. There are a lot of seniors on the boys’ team, and they have a lot more experience, which helps the team greatly.” The team is thrilled for the start of this season, as well. The first match was November 17th and they lost, but they were expected to lose against Hardin County. Their second match against Lafayette was canceled due to rain. Their next game is December 5th in Philadelphia, MS, and they are hoping for a great outcome. Knocking them down one pin at a time, bowling is for people who have time to SPARE.
WAVES WIPE WARRIORS Keywanna Rogers @keyylashay Sports Editor
Since their first game at the Tupelo Hound Dog Classic that was held on November 5th, the Lady Waves had been on a winning streak. But when they were defeated by the Starkville Yellowjackets at an away conference game on December 5th, the ladies set their record to 6-1.At a non-away conference on Dec. 2, Tupelo Lady Waves set their record to 6-1 when they defeated the Pontotoc warriors. First quarter, the Lady Waves lead the game with 19 to 12. Second quarter the Lady Waves let the warriors come up eight points making the score 19-20, but they eventually started doing what they planned to do which was to play basketball. The Lady Waves ended the second half with a score of 40-20.Second half, the Lady Waves scored fourteen more points and the KEYWANNA ROGERS Warriors scored twenty-seven more points but the final Senior Tyjil Hereford begings to make a play during the Tupelo vs. Aberdeen score of 54 to 47. Senior forward and guard, Alayjah varisty boys basketball game. Sherer, led with 21 points. “We started the season off with a loss,” said Sherer. “But we stepped up from that loss and hopefully we will continue stepping up until we can reach the top.” The varsity boys are undefeated so far. Their record was set to 7-0 when they defeated the warriors, also. Senior Nick Ratliff scored the first points on the board. The ending score of the first quarter was 10-6 with Tupelo in the lead. Second quarter, Pontotoc came up 16 more points and Tupelo scored 14 more points, leaving the score for the first half 24-22 with Tupelo leading. In the last half, the Waves decided to step up their game and do what they came on the court to do, which was play basketball. In the end, the Waves came on top with a final score of 50 to 43. “We did what we came out to do, which was win”, said Senior Nick Ratliff. “ We need to stay focused and continuing winning.” Both the Golden Waves and Lady Waves went on to Myrtle, Mississippi on December 3rd. The Lady Waves were defeated by Jonesboro with a final score of 46 to 42.
NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2016
TUPELO HIGH SCHOOL
25 DAYS OF CHRISTMAS CHEER
Mary Preston Evers @marypreston_18 Staff Writer It is that time of year again -- Christmas trees, ugly Christmas sweaters, and Christmas movies, of course! No Christmas is complete without the 25 days of Christmas on Freeform; formerly known as ABC Family. The channel showcases Christmas movies from December 1st until December 25th, Christmas Day. 25 Days of Christmas is an annual programming block that has been shown on the channel since 1996. It shows classic holiday features and new Christmas themed television movies each year. Several of the network’s original series air during the time period with Christmas special episodes. This year, Elf is on 12 times, National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation is on 11 times, and let’s not forget about The Polar Express, because it is on 12 times, as well. No matter what type of movie you like, you are sure to find at least one this Christmas season that can put you in the holiday spirit. You will find yourself quoting lines from the movies we have all grown to love. For instance, the quotes; “Son of a nutcracker,” “The best way to have Christmas cheer is to sing out loud for all to hear,”and “You are an angry little elf,” all from the movie Elf, starring Will Ferrell.
www.momthemagnificent.com
Also, the references from National Lampoon’s Vacation; “Squirrel!” and “If I woke up with my head sewn to the floor, I would not be more surprised to see you, Eddy.” In addition, one of the most well known quotes is from The Nightmare Before Christmas when Jack the Skeleton says, “Just because I can not see it, does not mean I cannot believe it.” The holiday season can be both stressful and fulfilling at the same time. The holiday season comes with its own set of troubles; and if we are not careful, those troubles can distract us from the holiday spirit. The holiday season is a precious time to spend with family and friends. These 25 Days of Christmas movies help bring loved ones together and create holiday cheer.
NO FLEXING: BLACK BEETLES RETURN
Keywanna Rogers @keyylashay Sports Editor
Some of you may wonder, “Who is Rae Sremmurd?” Brothers Khalif and Aquil Brown are an American hip-hop duo that is now known as Rae Sremmurd. The two boys, who grew up in a small town called Tupelo, MS, who had only dreamed of becoming famous, have now turned those big dreams into their reality. Khalif, also known as Swae Lee, and Aaquil, also known as Slim Jxmmi, have came a long way. Originally, there were three of them: Swae Lee (“Kid Krunk”), Slim Jxmmi (“CaliBoy”), and a third member who went by the name of “Lil Pantz,” and they were known as “Dem Outta St8 Boyz.” Unfortunately, “Lil Pantz” ended up dropping out, and just a few years later, the standing two got their big break-transforming from “Dem Outta St8 Boyz” into “Rae Sremmurd.” In 2014, they officially signed with Mike WiLL Made-It’s record label EarDrummers Entertainment. Neatly, the name “Rae Sremmurd” comes from the record label-- because it is “ear drummers” spelled backwards. Even though they are based out of Atlanta, they are from Tupelo. If you have listened to any of Rae Sremmurd’s songs or interviews, you will find that they have never hidden nor forgotten where they started. Some of their songs refer to their hard times as teenagers, such as their struggles with funds, at one point, being homeless to being rich and living in Atlanta. For example, the duo produced a song called “YNO.” The lyrics read “came a long way from them Ida street apartments,” referring to an apartment complex in Tupelo. They have brought much publicity to the
small town by hosting big events such as SremmFest. In the year 2015, Rae Sremmurd started an annual event called “SremmFest.” It is hosted in their hometown www.rap-up.com at the Bancorpsouth The 2016 flier for Rae Sremmurd’s annual Center. SremmFest. The first Sremmfest was held from Dec 18-20 of last year. Last year’s event was supposed to last three days, but somehow plans got changed. The first day, there was supposed to be a celebrity basketball game held at Tupelo High School, which later got canceled. The second day was the actual day of the concert, which was held at the Bancorpsouth Arena,featuring artists Yo Gotti, K Camp, Dej Loaf, Mike WiLL Made-It, Two-9 and Eearz. On the third day, they hosted a community BBQ, as well as a toy drive at Ballard Park. This year, the one-day event will be held at the Bancorpsouth Arena on Dec. 23. Swae Lee and Slim Jxmmi will be pumping the crowd through their unique styles and songs of choice; with other special performances by the artists Diplo, Young Dolph and Big K.R.I.T.
The Tupelo Ballet Company performed ‘The Nutcracker’ under the artistic director, Sharon Long; at the THS Performing Arts Center on December 3, 2016 at two times: 2:00 P.M. and 7:00 P.M. I have never seen a ballet performance of ‘The Nutcracker,’ so I decided to watch it at the 2:00 P.M. time, just to see what it is like. From what I heard, this is their 34th time to perform this ballet, so that made me want to watch it more. When I first went to the PAC, I did not expect the whole room to be as full as it was. There were SO many people! People were walking around, greeting each other, and taking photos together. Meanwhile, I was trying to buy my ticket. The cost of the tickets took me by surprise; it was $15 for students, $30 for adults, and $20 for senior citizens who are 65 and older. After I paid for my ticket, I headed towards the auditorium
Editor-in-Chief: Tayolor Witherspoon Chief Photographer: Karlee Avery Sports Editor: Keywanna Rogers Business Manager: Whitney Campbell Staff Writers: Jalysia Coleman Mary Preston Evers Bryan Kwag Corrections: The Hi-Times newspaper staff is committed to writing the most accurate and compelling news. We strive for integrity. If there is a misprint in an article, photo cutline or infographic, please inform us; and we will correct the mistake in our next issue.
Editorial Policy: It is the intent of the editorial staff to provide Tupelo High to find a seat, but I could School students with not find any, because nearly every single seat was taken an oppurtunity to except a few on the last row at the top. So I had no create a productive choice but to sit there. I did forum to further not really mind where I sat because I still got a great enhance a positive view of the stage. academic environment When the show finally started, there was this at the school. The beautiful, authentic sound opinions expressed that filled the room with ambience. Since I was on the on the editorial page last row, which was higher BRYAN KWAG reflect the feelings than the seats up front, I saw Steven Byess, the conductor The flier for Tupelo Ballet’s 34th annual of the entire Hiof The North Mississippi performance of The Nutcracker. Times staff unless Symphony Orchestra, and my head, I knew that the price for I realized where the sound had otherwise bylined. this ballet was definitely worth it. come from. There were so many detailed While the orchestra was sitting Guest editorials may things about the play that I really down and playing live, his tall enjoyed. Long and the Tupelo be submitted to The figure was standing in the pit. I Ballet truly did a fantastic job of was amazed at how well the music Hi-Times and will be delivering an eye-catching holiday was in sync with the boys and performance to the community; published accoridng girls that were telling the story that has not only caught my through dance. to available space and attention, but others’ as well. It is There were Christmas colors no wonder this has been going on relevance. Anonymous everywhere, and the background for years, and I am sure there will setting behind the cast vividly submissions will not definitely be more to come. explained what was going on. In be considered.
A CLASSICAL PERFORMED ANNUALLY
Bryan Kwag @KwagBryan Staff Writer
THE HI-TIMES
ART & Entertainment
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A&E
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