PERSISTENCE RESPECT INTEGRITY DIGNITY EXCELLENCE

VOLUME 1

ISSUE 111

JANUARY 2010

PLAQUEMINE

HIGH SCHOOL

1 dollar

IBERVILLE PARISH HIGH SCHOOL

STUDENT OF THE YEAR,

PHS SENIOR, LYNZI VAUGHN

Find the hidden devil! Somewhere in this issue is a hidden devil’s head. Be the first to find it and bring to Mrs. LeBlanc for a prize!!!!

’

PHS Achievements

2-3

Student Projects

4-5

Faculty Focus 6-7

Sports 8-9

Community 10-11

Fun and Horoscopes

12-13

Devil’s Pride 14

INSIDE THIS

ISSUE:

PHS senior, Lynzi Vaughn, was selected Iberville Parish’s Student of the Year Thursday night at the Iberville Parish Optional Center. Dr. P. Edward Cancienne congratulated Lynzi as she was awarded this prestigious award. Lynzi was very gracious when she spoke briefly about herself and her future plans. She thanked all of the teachers who have taught or touched her life in some way since she entered

kindergarten at Crescent Elementary, crediting them with her success. Simply put, she stated, “I would not be here today and would not know all that I do had it not been for the teachers in this parish.” Lynzi plans to attend LSU and major in Biological Sciences. Lynzi represented PHS very well, and she will advance to the regional competition. Congratulations, Lynzi, and good luck at the regional level. We’ll all be pulling for you! (see page 2) Staff writer Katie Lively.

PLAQUEMINE HIGH SCHOOL 8TH GRADE

STUDENT OF THE YEAR TIFFANY GAUTHIER

Two Iberville teachers receive national awards

JAG student, Dylan Patrick, delivers address

PHS STUDENTS OF THE YEAR!

Eighth grade student, Tiffany Gauthier (pictured

above left), was selected as PHS’s middle school student

of the year. Tiffany is a quiet, smart young lady who

works hard and possesses leadership qualities that

distinguish her among her peers. She is a role model for

her classmates. At the Student of the Year reception,

Tiffany commented that she enjoys school and watching

television. Lynzi Vaughn was selected as PHS high

school student of the year. Lynzi is shown, above right,

receiving the district student of the year award. The

Page 2

Year is selected based on character, academics, and

service. Students prepare a portfolio that is judged

based on content and appearance. Both students

created portfolios that beautifully depicted the

characteristics of a “Student of the Year.” Students

from each school compete at the district level. Win-

ners then move on to regionals, then state. Lynzi will

advance to the regional level where she will represent

Iberville Parish. Congratulations to both girls! Good

luck at the regional level, Lynzi! Staff writer Caroline Williams

The month of December is officially JAG month. JAG is an acronym for Jobs for America’s Graduates, a federally-funded program that helps many students get their diplomas and also provides on-site job training. JAG student Dylan Patrick had the privilege of addressing the teachers, students, and government

officials who attended the meeting at the governor’s mansion. The person giving out the awards was State Superintendent of Schools, Paul Pastorek. Among the teachers to receive the awards for excellence were Plaquemine High’s own Carole Blanchard and Crescent’s Kiara Bynum. Congratulations to Mrs. Blanchard, Ms. Bynum and all JAG students. Staff writer Caroline Williams; Photos submitted by Carole Blanchard

DEVIL’S PRIDE

VOLUME 1 , ISSUE 111

PHS BAND PLACES 2ND AT

ANNUAL BATTLE OF THE BANDS

Page 3

Each year, the PHS band attends the annual Battle of the Bands held in the Baton Rouge area. This year was no exception. The battle was held on December 6, 2010, at Glen Oaks High School and was attended by several area high schools. Despite frigid temperatures, our band performed well enough to earn second place honors. McKinley High School’s band placed first, while Opelousas placed third. Plaquemine High’s field show was excellent. Led by drum

major, Raymond Allen, Jr. and his father, Raymond Allen, Sr., our band has prevailed against many odds and has become a very good band that represents our school well. Our majorettes are no exception; led by Charmaine Atkins, they placed second in the competition. Raymond Allen, Jr. placed third among the drum majors. We are proud of all of you!! Staff writer Demarquis Atkins; Photos above submitted by Raymond Allen, below by Demarquis Atkins

The Class of 2010 presented first semester senior projects Tuesday, December 1, 2009, through Thursday, December 3, 2009. The purpose of this project is to introduce seniors to the reality of the workforce. Each student had to choose a career and research it for the project. The students had to be well prepared for their presentations. This project is a major part of their grade. Therefore, the seniors take it seriously. After they complete the visual presentation, they show the judges either a thumbs up or a thumbs down. A thumbs up shows that they are still interested in this career and would like to pursue it after high school. A thumbs down means they are likely to choose

a different career path. This project is very effective. It is important that seniors think about what they want to do in the future. — Staff writers, Howar-neshia Bates and Dinesha Fernandez

CLASS OF 2010 SENIOR PROJECTS

The true measure of a career is to be

able to be content, even proud, that you

succeeded through your own endeavors

without leaving a trail of casualties in

your wake. Alan Greenspan

DEVIL’S PRIDE

Candace Hastings, Brittany Pania, and Jason Porch showcase their Senior Project visual backboard presentations.

Seniors Carmesha Camper and Tamika Williams are proud of their finished bridge and ready to test its strength, while Mr. Orvin assists Adonis Major with the finishing touches to his bridge. Photos submitted by Demarquis Atkns

SENIORS BUILD BRIDGES IN

PHYSICS

Recently, Mr. Orvin’s physics’

students built bridges applying

t h e i r k n o w l e d g e o n t h e

distribution of forces. The bridges

were built from popsicle sticks.

Each student labeled the force

directions on the bridges and

wrote a summary of their bridge

design, including adaptations they

made during construction, lessons

learned, and, finally, what they

would do differently if they were

to construct a bridge again. Staff writer Kaleb Banks

Page 4

Students in Mr. Braud’s 5th hour class created product logos in Photoshop. The logo for “Eco Wear” were done by Taylor McDaniel. Taylor’s product is a clothing line. The logo for “Color Me Happy” was done by Leesa Roucher. Her product was nail polish. The last one was done by Ridge Simoneaux. His product was glow-in-the- dark toilet paper. Considering how our electricity works, we could use some of that! —Staff Writers Randall David and Rickikie Thomas

PHS Students’ Projects

Page 5

Brennan Vaughn displays his science fair project entitled “Big Juicy Returns” while Joshua Randall shows the project he and Darvin Butler created entitled “Now You See It, Now You Don’t! The science fair was held on December 4, 2009. Both

boys advanced to the district level. Brennan placed third in his division, while Joshua placed first in his division and was the overall winner. Both boys advanced to regionals. Good luck to all of our PHS district winners. Staff writers Rickikie Thomas and Randall David

VOLUME 1 , ISSUE 111

Science Fair Project Winners are listed on page 12.

Faculty Focus - Mr. Robert Braud

DEVIL’S PRIDE

Toby Sanders and William LeBlanc draw outlines for a project in drafting.

Drafting has long been a part of the strong voc-tech department at PHS, and this year is no exception. Mr. Robert Braud came to PHS in the 2006-2007 school year after having taught five years of vocational drafting at a vocational school in Ohio. A graduate from Kent State University in Ohio with a B. S. in Technology Education, Mr. Braud teaches Basic and Advanced Drafting, Computer Graphics an d An imat io n , an d Computer Architecture. In 2008, he incorporated PHOTOSHOP CS3 and 3Ds Max 9, professional software used in movies and graphic design. Under his direction,

the classroom layout was up-dated with new design work-stations that consist of drafting and drawing tables with built in computer workstations and 22” monitors. A HD projector and 100” digital projection screen for lectures and educa-tional video screenings was added as well. Mr. Braud started the wrestling program in 2006 at the request of Justin Winters, who had trans-ferred to PHS from Brusly. Justin had attempted to start a wrestling program, but he lacked a sponsor. After learn-ing that Mr. Braud had wres-tled in high school, college, and the Marine Corps, he asked him to start a team. Justin’s persistence paid off, and he and six other students persuaded Mr. Braud to under-take this huge task. Mr. Braud funded the first year of wres-tling out of his own pocket, and with the help of Brusly’s wrestling coach, he was able to acquire wrestling mats for practice. With the help of the administration at PHS, and the school and parish athletic di-rectors, Mr. Braud achieved board approval for it to be an official sport at PHS. In their fourth year, the team has a good base for future success. Mr. Braud focuses on recruit-ment and obtaining a solid base of upper classmen who have wrestled for three or four years. This year’s team has nine wrestlers of whom all but one will be returning next year as juniors and seniors. Next year, Chase Bergeron, pictured below pinnng an opponent, will be the first wrestler to

have wrestled all four years of his high school career. If he remains healthy, he should stay in the top six at state this year and the top three at state next year. Thanks, Mr. Braud, for all that you do! Staff writer Demarquis Atkins

Mr. Robert Braud is a man who wears many hats. He teaches Drafting I & II, graphic design, and computer architecture. He is also the PHS wrestling coach, and PHS technology facilitator.

Pictured at left is the founding wrestling team: Coach Braud, Clark Cava-lier, Justin Winters, Lance Dozier, Gavin Tullier, and (kneeling) Trey Verret.

Page 6

VOLUME 1 , ISSUE 111

Can you guess the faculty members and students?

1. 2. 3.

4. 5. 6.

1. __________________ 2. _________________ 3. ________________

4. __________________ 5. _________________ 6. _________________

Page 7

GUESS WHO?

The boys’ basketball team once again has a winning record. PHS is currently ranked Number 1 in the state and is entering district play this week. PHS played Lutcher on January 14 and defeated them soundly. Get out and support our team! A schedule is posted on the student bulletin board. Staff writers Taylar Brown and Jasmine Mellion

Green Devil Classic

The annual Green Devil Classic was held on December 26, 28, 29, and 30. Coaches Wright and Johnson work hard each year planning this event. Teams who participated were West St. John, St. John, PHS, Albany, Walker , Terrebonne, Destrehan, St. James, A m i t e , S l i d e l l , Ponchatoula, Port Allen, White Castle, PC Central, and Hammond. Winners were as follows: PHS—1st; Hammond High—2nd;

and Slidell High—3rd. MVP was D’Marcus Veal and Mr. Defense was Adonis Major.

Freshmen

Tevin Becnel

Johannes Domingue

Deon Harding

Jamarcus Johnson

Jaquale Smith

Devin Wilson

Richard Curry

Davon Godchaux

Joe Jordan

Dujuan Williams

Ricky Aro

Brannon Basil

Justin Randal

Seniors

Roderick Daniels

DeAndre Jenkins

Jeremy Jenkins

Adonis Major

Nicolas Mims

Jeffrey Ricard

Alvin Ruffins

Korbin Scott

D’Marcus Veal

Larry Young

Juniors

Dwayne Calloway

Traveon Hawkins

Torriano Johnson

Troy Jones

Cordarro Pierce

Hakeem Sledge

Trevor Trusclair

Treven Trusclair

Sophomores

Jarrain Jenkins

Jacorey Johnson

Brent Lee

Jessie Ward

Plaquemine High Basketball

Roster

“Talent wins games, but

teamwork and intelligence

win championships”

Michael Jordan

DEVIL’S PRIDE

PHS Boys celebrate their victory!! Photo courtesy of Demarquis Atkins

Academy

Quintele Jackson

Warren Jordan

Coaches

Dennis Wright

and

Donald Ray

Johnson

Boys’ Basketball

Page 8

8th Grade

My’iesha Bell

Freshmen

Amber Smith

Jamira Russ

Sophomores

Brianna Arnold

Kadijah Mims

Reneisha Hammond

The girls’ basketball game on Thursday, December 3, 2009, against Zachary ended with a 53-31 loss.

Juniors

Audreana Marshall

Amber Mitchell

Iman Crosby

Brandy Wise

Seniors

Shanacei Anderson

Quinteller Georgetown

Whitney Hudson

Candace Hastings

VOLUME 1 , ISSUE 111

PHS Volleyball finished their season with 7 awesome wins and 16 losses, with head coaches Cormanda Grace-Green and John Badeaux behind them all the way. Seniors, Quinteller Georgetown made 1st Team All-District, and senior Candace Hastings made 2nd Team All-Distr ict . Senior S h a n a c e i A n d e r s o n a n d Sophomore Chandrika Casma made Honorable Mention. Staff writers Jasmine Mellion and Taylar Brown

Volleyball Roundup

“On any given night, anyone can

beat anyone.” Author Unknown

Page 9

Lady Green Devils

Roster

Coach Cormanda Grace –Green

2009-2010 Girls’ Varsity

Basketball Team

Whitney Hudson hustles for the ball against a Zachary defender.

DEVIL’S PRIDE

BRRR!! PLAQUEMINE FREEZES!!!

COLD FRONT MOVES ACROSS SOUTH

LOUISIANA!

The week back to school for some seemed even more unpleasant with cold weather in the mix. On Wednesday, there was a hard freeze in the morning with a few clouds in the evening. On Thursday, there was rain with even colder weather and strong winds. While the temperature reached an all time low, the high was that Iberville Parish Schools were closed Friday due to the low temperatures. Just goes to show that there’s a silver lining to every cloud! Staff writer Caroline

Williams

PHS REACTS TO COLD WEATHER!

Cold weather means heating systems come on and go off as needed. Right? Maybe not. PHS is known for problems with its air conditioning and heating, and this cold snap is no exception. Mrs. Nelson’s room was, and still is, colder than the commons area, Ms. K. Olivier’s room had no electricity, Mrs. LeBlanc’s room is still 90°, Mrs. Mosby’s room is cold, and Mr. Orvin’s room is too hot, and the rooms on G hall had lights, but their sockets didn’t work!! As of Thursday, January 14, some repairs were completed. Electricity had been returned to all rooms, yet the heat was still not regulated. Considering the amount of money spent on heating and air maintenance in the district, it is hard to understand why we have so much trouble keeping the temperature in our schools regulated.

Heating and air are not the only problems with our facility. The condition of the bathrooms are deplorable as well. Faculty and student bathrooms have peeling paint and broken fixtures. Sewage backs up near the girls’ and boys’ bathrooms often, creating unsanitary conditions in the school. Fans can often be seen drying the carpet near the bathrooms due to these backups. Wet carpet compounds the mold and mildew already existing in the school. The good news is that renovations have begun on the school. Renovations should address these problems as well as many more problems with our facility which can only improve our already strong teacher and student morale and motivation. Comfort and cleanliness improve attitudes and test scores!!! Staff writer Demarquis Atkins

Look at this!—The Carl F. Grant sign in all its icy glory. Apparently, the sprinklers were left on overnight and this beautiful image was created. Wow!!!! Photo courtesy of Becky Sue Bickham

Page 10

VOLUME 1 , ISSUE 111

Fergie and Josh Duhamel

Renew Wedding Vows Fergie was surprised for her first anniversary by husband, Josh Duhamel with a ceremony that renewed their wedding vows on Wednesday, January 6. Their first ceremony was an elaborate affair that took place in Malibu on January 10, 2009, in front of hundreds of guests. They were wed again in a quieter ceremony attended by just the two of them and a minister near Santa Barbara, California. Fergie was completely surprised. The couple flew away in a private helicopter from Los Angeles to Santa Barbara where they took a limo to the luxurious Bacara Resort & Spa. Staff writers Rickikie Thomas and Caroline Williams

POPULAR STORIES

Page 11

FOOD and RECIPES Spinach and Artichoke Dip

2 - 7 oz. pkgs. frozen spinach

1 - 8 oz. pkg. cream cheese

1 - 8 oz. container sour cream

1 pkg. shredded mozzarella cheese

1 can artichokes, chopped

1. Cook spinach according to package; drain.

2. Mix spinach, cream cheese, and sour cream

until well blended.

3. Stir in chopped artichokes.

4. Stir in mozzarella cheese until melted.

5. Heat through and serve with chips or

crackers.

Submitted by Danielle Williams

Holiday Pecans

1 ½ cups sugar

½ cup sour cream

1 ½ tablespoon vanilla

1 ½ quart pecan halves (1 pound=1 quart)

Bring sugar and sour cream to soft boil stage. Add vanilla and pecans. Beat vigorously for a few minutes. Pour onto a greased pan or foil paper. Allow mixture to get hard, then break apart.

Submitted by Diane Delone

Tiger Woods Apologizes for His “Sins” Image-troubled Tiger Woods delivered a public apology recently for having strayed from his image as a family man. Sounding like he was confessing for his actions, Woods wrote on his website , “I have let my family down, and I regret those transgressions with all of my heart.” He continued, “I have not been true to my values and the behavior my family deserves. I am not without faults and I am far short of perfect.” Woods did not admit to having extramarital affairs and asked for privacy on his website. "I am dealing with my behavior and personal failings behind closed doors with my family," he writes. "Those feelings should be shared by us alone." We hope that Tiger and his wife can work out their problems. Staff writers Rickikie Thomas and Caroline Williams

They sing a variety of songs, but in no language we know. Never been solved, and may never be. Despite this, CDs of these

mysterious singers have been distributed around the world. Tell me, who are these mystical creatures whose song may never be solved?

Two soccer coaches were side by side at a restaurant, eating, when suddenly one smacked the other one in the back.

The one who had been smacked then turned and thanked the man who hit him. Why?

A man is crowned king. Shortly afterwards, he is captured by enemy forces. Why?

How will an optimist and a pessimist read this rebus?

FAR CLOSE AWAY NEAR

Trivia All About Phobias

What is the name of the phobia for being afraid of darkness?

What is the name of the phobia for being afraid of open places?

What is the name of the phobia for being afraid of opinions?

What is the name of the phobia for being afraid of thunder and lightning?

What is the name of the phobia for being afraid of the boogeyman?

Answers on page 14.

“Adaptability is not imitation. It means power of resistance and assimilation.”-Mahatma Gandhi

“The happiness of life is made up of minute fractions - the little, soon forgotten charities of a kiss or a smile, a kind

look or heartfelt compliment.”-Samuel Taylor Coleridge

“Wicked people are always surprised to find ability in those that are good.”-Marquis De Vauvenargues

“He that fails in his endeavors after wealth or power will not long retain either honesty or courage.”-Samuel Johnson

“A good traveler has no fixed plans and is not intent upon arriving. A good artist lets his intuition lead him wherever

it wants.”-Lao-Tzu

Science Fair Project Winners Brennan Vaughn, Kenneth Matthews, Joshua Randall, Gaylan Lewis, Carlye Bezet, Daniel Williams, Rachel Lanieu, Caroline Williams, Dequanda James, Courtney Martin, Cheyenna Camper, Kayla Mumphery, Christopher Shaw, Shatiyha Cartwright, Dylan Patrick, Justin Stewart, Shaquonia Grevious, Ashley Young, Audreana Marshall, Rebekah Morgan, Candice Tullier, Hala’sha Wiley, Shelby Dickerson, Monica Washington, Savoy Wade, Amber Mitchell, Haley Catana, Shania Tullier, Hailey Chauffe, Joshua Berthelot, Chelsea Deloch, Alexis Hayes, Bryant Camper, Trenesha Hill, Terrell Scott, William LeBlanc, JaQuantis Pugh, Gage Albert, Margareth Conizales and

Jacelyn Leonard. CONGRATULATIONS TO ALL PHS WINNERS!

Quotes

Page 12 DEVIL’S PRIDE This page by Caroline Williams

I am tall when I am young. I am short when I am old.

When I live I glow. From your breath I die.

What am I?

HOROSCOPES

Capricorn- Set Your Compass—There's an urge to bring more romance and creativity into your life, and you can happily find a fresh path to guide you now. Accepting and letting go of your past aspirations helps you clean the slate and plant the seeds for new goals to work toward. Aries-Slow Start—The year seems to start off in reverse as you experience sudden stops and serious demands on your time. The emphasis is on your professional life now, and the rewards that come with hard work a graceful approach to problems that arise. Taurus- Cautious Optimism—You find meaning in life from instinct rather than intellect this month, as you are able to find answers with your feelings rather than your head. Some backtracking and adjustments may be necessary now to ensure you're moving forward in the right direction. Gemini-The Waiting Game—2010 seems to start off on the wrong foot with pleasure becoming more and more elusive. Luckily, your awareness of your own feelings is heightened now, and sharing these feelings brings benefits when you can avoid being overly dramatic. Cancer-Slow Motion —Expressing yourself carefully helps avoid misunderstandings in this backwards month. Individuals whose strange ideas challenge your traditional values should not be dismissed -- stretching your own boundaries by letting go of old rules allows you to embrace new freedoms and joys. Leo-Ready, Aim, Don't Fire—Powerful forces restrain your creative self-expression this month as work-related issues are emphasized. Managing your anger can be crucial to your happiness now, lest minor disagreements turn into major problems. Virgo-Ray of Light—A light is cast this month on old relationship matters and areas where you need

to let go with grace. Self-expression, creativity and beauty are emphasized now, bringing generosity from others who surprisingly expect little in return. Libra-Bound to Happen—Your freedom of movement is restrained this month, yet this allows you to concentrate on matters of critical importance. It may be nearly impossible to make progress toward your long-term goals right now, though you can still share plans with others as you work toward making your move in the months ahead. Scorpio-Master of Your Destiny—On the down side, mixed messages and difficulty with details are likely to arise this month. Even still, January brings positive opportunities for cordial connections, creative conversations and a fresh look at old relationships to help you move forward in the new year. Sagittarius-Paying the Price—You have big plans for the year, yet January seems to start off in slow

motion. Instead of looking out toward the distant horizon, growth and meaning may come closer to home. While financial issues may be at the forefront, facing these issues increases your self -esteem to boost your confidence on your journey toward your long-term dreams. Aquarius-Back to Square One—Eager as you are for this new year, there are still relationship issues

left over from the past that must be addressed. The more you attempt to push past your current blocks, the more frustrated you might become. You're in the middle of a quest for spiritual answers now, and January brings insight and inspiration to help you on your way. Pisces-Expanding Your Universe—While January seems to start off with things moving in reverse,

this month also brings wisdom, optimism and good fortune to ignite your entrepreneurial spirit. The world's problems won't all melt before your eyes, but your ability to resolve personal issues can at least provide hope to those around you now. Staff writer Dinesha Fernandez Capricorn

December 22 - January 20

VOLUME 1 , ISSUE 111

Page 13

Green Devils go Black and Gold!

Saints’ spirit is everywhere!

Devil’s Pride online!

The newspaper can now be found online. Editions will be posted shortly after publication. Please tell your family and friends to check us out on the world wide web

www.issuu.com/plaqueminehighschool.

Devil’s Pride is everywhere!!

Plaquemine High School

59595 Belleview Drive

Plaquemine, LA 70764

(225) 687-6367

D EVIL’S PR ID E

Visit us online at: www.issuu.com/

plaqueminehighschool

DEVIL’S PRIDE STAFF

Katie Lively, Kaleb Banks, Taylar Brown, Taylor McDaniel, Josh Varnell, Randall David, Jarret Diamond, Howarneshia Bates, Dinesha Fernandez, Jasmine Mellion, Rickikie Thomas, Caroline Williams, Niosha Price, Demarquis Atkins, Cody Pollage, and Mrs. LeBlanc. Turn in any news to Mrs. LeBlanc, Room D-1-A, or any staff member.

We can also be found on the school’s new webpage. It is attached to the district webpage. The paper can be found under “Clubs.” Copies can also be purchased from any staff member for $1.00.

Ads for businesses or organiza-tions can be placed in the paper . Prices are:

3 x 4—$3.00

4 x 6—$5.00

5 x 7—$7.00

Call PHS at (225) 687-6367 or fax your request to (225) 687-4422, “Attention: Newspaper Staff.”

Answers to Trivia

Achluophobia

Aeroacrophobia

Allodoxaphobia

Astraphobia

Bogyphobia

Answers to Riddles

A candle

Whales

He was choking.

He is in a game of checkers.

Pessimist: The end is near. Optimist: Near at last.

Last Month’s Babies

1. Ms. Jones 4. Candice Tullier

2. Mrs. Allen 5. Shawnice Christmas

3. Mrs. LeBlanc 6. William LeBlanc

© 2009-2010 Plaquemine High School. All Rights Reserved.