25 cents
DECEMBER 2011
Logo design Congratulations to Petal Upper Elementary students Seth Williamson and Clay Minter who designed the logo for The Panther Print. Together, they did a wonderful job. Thanks for your hard work.
Are you smarter than a 6th grader? Try your hand at these questions to see if you are, in fact, smarter than a sixth grader. Email your answers to: 6thpetalnews@petalschools.com then watch the next issue of The Panther Print for the correct answers.
THE OFFICIAL SIXTH GRADE NEWSPAPER OF PETAL UPPER ELEMENTARY
Football Panthers make historic run at State Title Petal High School is known for its achievement. Its athletics are no different. So although to hear the phrase "0-14" in connection with Petal sports would seem very much out of place, the two were connected at the hip until a month ago — that was the Panthers' all-time record in the football playoffs. But that zero was smashed to smithereens beginning on Nov. 11, when Petal dropped Gulfport in convincing fashion, 42-21, in Round 1 of the MHSAA Class 6A playoffs. The magic ride didn't stop there,
and two wins later the Panthers were playing for all the marbles in the State Championship against Olive Branch. It was a special milestone for both schools, as neither program had ever played in the title game before. In the end it was Olive Branch that was celebrating — after Petal's own celebration was cut short by a heartbreaking referee's whistle — a 35-34 victory, but the 2011 season will nonetheless go down as a magnificent one in the annals of the Friendly City's history. The Panthers, who finished with a
SCIENCE: What is a group of two or more atoms called?
Storybird?
MATHEMATICS: 7.8 x 3.5 + -7.9 ÷ 3.2 – 2.1 = ? LANGUAGE ARTS: What is the group of underlined words called? Kayla, Mallory, and Isaiah bought some textbooks for Mrs. Moreno.
Teacher Trivia See if you can guess which 6th grade teacher answered the following questions:
Q: Are you crazy, loud, or both? A: Neither Q: What color is your hair? A: Blonde Q: What made you decide to be a teacher? A: I love kids! Q: What’s your favorite restaurant? A: Sake Café Q: What is your favorite team? A: New Orleans Saints Q: Do you have any pets? A: Yes- a pug Q: What is your favorite hobby? A: Shopping or reading Email your best guesses to 6thpetalnews@petalschools.com
Hillman’s
HINT: Never wear socks with Crocs (unless it’s cold outside).
10-5 record, also defeated Biloxi (38-27) and Meridian (23-14) en route to a South State championship and a chance to play at Jackson's Veterans Memorial Stadium this past weekend. "We want to sit back and take a look around," Petal head coach Steve Buckley said before Friday's championship game. "I want them to take a deep breath, look around and see where they are. It's a memory they don't want to forget." It's safe to say it's a memory that no one in attendance will forget any time soon.
Have you heard of
HISTORY/READING: About how many Jewish people lost their lives during the Holocaust?
Q: What type of books do you like to read? A: Nicolas Sparks
A PETAL, MISSISSIPPI, US
Savannah’s first steps... A couple of weeks ago, Savannah Blansett, a sixth grade student at Petal Upper Elementary, took her first steps, which is a big deal because she has Cerebral Palsy. According to the A. D. A. M. medical encyclopedia, “Cerebral Palsy is a group of disorders that can involve brain and nervous system functions such as movement, learning, hearing, seeing, and thinking.” Savannah was super excited to walk for the first time. Savannah’s family and friends have encouraged her to take her first step. They By Savannah have had a huge DAVIS impact on her life since she was born. They have helped her through it all, even the bad times. Also, she has one true friend who has helped her through it all, and that person is her therapist – Tracie Thornton. She has helped Savannah through the rough times with therapy. Ms. Tracie, as Savannah fondly calls her, has been with Savannah since she was three months old. Some people might think that there’s no way you can stay so positive when you have a condition like Savannah, but you can. See STEPS, Page 2
At Petal Upper Elementary, accounts, so they can access Mrs. Haigler’s students created these stories from home and at books online at Storybird.com. school. Storybird is an online webOn Storybird, artists have site that allows children, chosen some of their artstudents, and adults to work to go online at create books. Storybird.com for peoDuring the week of ple to choose from. Oct. 24, students went to Once you choose artthe computer lab to crework, you create a story. ate stories online. Also, when students Their first activity on publish their stories for Storybird, which was for other students to read, By Devan a grade, was to create a RUSSELL students can comment fairytale. on other people’s stories Their fairytale part and/or “heart” them. needed to be make-believe. Students can also work Students enjoyed working on together to create stories. these stories. Students have online See STORYBIRD, Page 2
Riley Mitchell and Gracie Holman create their own narratives on Storybird.com using other people’s artwork as inspiration.
Petal community honors its veterans with ceremony On Nov. 11, the community of Petal gathered at Willie Hinton Park for the presentation of phase 1 of the Veterans’ Memorial Walkway. Mayor Hal Marx gave a speech welcoming all the veterans as they were honored for their service. A soldier was there to raise the American flag to represent all Americans. The memorial will be located in the center of Willie Hinton Park, formerly Relay Park. It will honor all veterans from all six branches of government: Army, Marines, Navy, Air Force, Coastguard or Merchant Marines. If you would like to honor a veteran, you can purchase brick to be engraved and then displayed as a part of this memorial. These bricks will be a permanent part of the memorial. To honor these veterans, Petal Upper Elementary students donated money and purchased a brick honoring all veterans. Sixth grade students raised $691 dollars to benefit this cause. The Petal Middle School Showtimers led the crowd in the See VETERANS, Page 2
Petal sixth grade students raised $691 to help purchase bricks honoring Petal veterans at the city’s new memorial in Willie Hinton Park.
Mrs. Stinson named Teacher of the Year Lenette Stinson, a sixthgrade inclusion teacher, was named Teacher of the Year for the 2011-2012 school year. Everyone here at PUES is so proud of her hard work and dedication to excellence for all students. Tyler Olson commented, “Mrs. Stinson is my favorite teacher. I am so happy for her! If I could have voted, I would have voted for her. I think Mrs. Stinson deserves that award because she is a very hard worker, and she is very caring. That’s why she got the award.”
THE PANTHER PRINT
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December 2011
VETERANS Continued from Page 1
Pledge of Allegiance and performed to show their pride. Everyone was emotional as they sang, “I’m Proud to be an American.” Bill Cooley, a Petal resident, was interviewed by a newspaper staff reporter after the ceremony. He stated that he was honored to be a part of this memorial since he was one of the soldiers in the Korean War in 1951. After serving his country, Mr. Cooley returned to the University of Southern Mississippi and earned his degree. Then he joined the Petal School District where he taught school until retirement. He still lives in Petal with his wife.
Mrs. Bullock’s top turkey
STEPS Continued from Page 1
She’s an example. Her family and friends are the ones who help her stay so positive. She wants people to know that she will be able to walk one day. She hopes that she will be able to walk fully by her birthday in May. Just a few days ago in band class, Savannah took twentytwo steps without her walker. Mr. Word, the band director, was so excited for her. Since walking for the first time, a lot of people have congratulated her. She felt that all her hard work had paid off with the help from her therapist. Savannah has had a lot of surgeries in the past, some of which include her ankle, hip, and a lot of other places. She has been through thick and thin, good and bad, but she always finds the best in everything and looks forward to it. She is a true gift from God!
Mrs. Haigler’s class
Mrs. Hillman’s class
Mrs. McCrary’s class
Mrs. Moreno’s class
Ms. Magee’s class
Feathers for a Cure! Kids shuffled through the halls, entire class. eager to buy a feather for their The Relay for Life Feather homeroom class. Contest raised around $1,700 dolThey dared others to buy a lars. LSU or Alabama feather As they announced the freckled with assorted glitter, winners over the intercom, snatched money out of their students of the winning Jansport backpacks, and homerooms yelled for joy. shoved the crisp dollar bills Others squirmed in their or glistening coins into the seats silently in disappointhands of the teachers who ment. sold the feathers. The winners, in order, By Alyssa This was just the beginwere Mrs. McCrary, Mrs. HEATH ning of a rivalry between all Haigler, and Mrs. Fordham the classrooms in Petal Upper for 6th grade. Ffith grade winners Elementary School. were Mrs. Oberst, Mrs. The prize was a delicious pizza Richardson, and Mrs. Bennett. party or buttery popcorn for the The overall winner for the entire
school was Mrs. Bullock. Some special categories were “Best Dressed,” “Best Theme,” and “Best Cancer Slogan.” The Best Theme award went to Ms. Magee, Mrs. Stinson, Mrs. Bullock, and Mrs. Haigler. Together, they came up with an Angry Birds theme. The Best Cancer Slogan went to Mrs. Moreno for her slogan “We ‘Can Can’ Cure Cancer,” complete with a dancing turkey. “The Most Creative Turkey” went to Mrs. Hillman’s class for her Eskimo and igloo decorations. “Most Money Raised for a Small Class” was a tie between Mrs.
Cliburn and Mrs. Evans. The next day, the students of the winning classes enjoyed their parties. One of the winners from Mrs. Bullock’s homeroom, Sha’Brea Myers, brought $200 dollars of feather money. Since her very helpful amount of money was brought in her class, Mrs. Bullock’s class won overall. Sha’Brea was also honored with “Top Seller of the Entire School!” Mrs. Bullock’s class alone raised $437 dollars. Hopefully Mrs. Bullock can keep up her winning streak for next year’s sixth-graders!
STORYBIRD Continued from Page 1
Parents can purchase these books. Storybird prints these books as hardcover or paperback books and will also deliver them to you. As well as buying their books, they can print these books on regular sheets of paper. Students enjoyed this. Storybird is a great way for children, students, and adults to practice writing skills and for them to use their creativity. Kaitlyn Sisco, who has an online Storybird account, said “Storybird is a great place for learning, and is fun inside and outside the classroom.” Kate Smallwood said, “The artists’ pictures are very inspiring and some are even funny. Working together on stories is an awesome feature that I never would have expected.” “It’s cool, and I think parents should be involved also,” said Weslie Blackledge. Storybird is a great way for students to be involved with writing and practice their skills.
Sixth graders take field trip to Camp Shelby On Oct. 13, the sixth-grade stu- fuel. Can you imagine that gas dents went on an educational field bill? After the demonstration, the trip to Camp Shelby. students had an opportunity to get The museum had everything inside the tanks and have a handsfrom Civil War weapons to on experience. exhibits on the current Cole Jones menwar America is fighttioned, “The tanks are ing in right now. very claustrophobic!” Destin Benson In a way, you have to described the musewonder how the solum as “a very historidiers even fit through cal site.” the hatches! Ira Jenkins also It’s not a coincimentioned, “The By Seth WILLIAMSON dence that the sixthmuseum is extremely grade students spent a and Kyle WHITE interesting, and there whole nine weeks was a lot to learn about America’s studying about World War II in military history.” After the histor- their social studies classes. ical Camp Shelby museum, the The students learned about how students visited monuments out- the Germans started taking over. side of the museum in memory of What students learned in social fallen soldiers. After visiting the studies actually tied in with the monuments, students saw a tank museum at Camp Shelby. demonstration. After an educational day at Jared Jackson said, “When the Camp Shelby, the students ended tank came by, it sounded like a hel- their trip by eating lunch at Relay icopter was three feet over your Park, which will be home to a head!” We learned at the demon- monument in honor and memory stration that the tank can travel at of veterans. 60 miles per hour, and the tank Wow! What a fun and educagets four miles to the gallon in tional day!
The sixth grade newspaper of Petal Upper Elementary CONTRIBUTORS: Alyssa Heath, Anna Murdock, Bayleigh Kennedy, Braulio Hernandez, Bristun Sanford, Caleb Jordan, Cambri Brewer, Celeste Garden-May, Charlsie Ellis, Danielle Ford, Danny Li,
Darius Smith, Evan Packowski, Gabbie Runnels, Hailey Conway, Hannah Hanson, Isaiah Jones, Jerri Hurt, Kaitlyn Sisco, Karrie Bond, Kate Smallwood, Katherine Solano, Katie Foster, Kayla Tweedy, Lauren Gates, Lauren Valentine, Lindsey Draughn, Mallory Nicholson, Savannah Davis, Victoria Lack ADVISORS: Jamie Magee, Lenette Stinson, Amanda Bullock, Anne-Marie Haigler, Leigh Cliburn Renee Evans ..................................................................Principal Mike Lott ................................................................Asst. Principal Dr. Buchanan ......................................................Superintendent
PUBLISHED BY:
THE PETAL NEWS YOUR COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER
(601) 268-2331 www.HubCitySPOKES.com
THE PANTHER PRINT
December 2011
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MEET THE PANTHER PRINT STAFF: Alyssa Heath
Anna Murdock
Bayleigh Kennedy
Age: 11 Favorite Teacher: Mrs. Hinton What do you like to do in your free time: I dance, sing, read, and go to the mall with my friends. Who is your favorite singer: Lights What is the title of your favorite book: The Clique Why do you like writing: It lets me express my ideas and helps gets my feelings out. One weird fact about yourself: I had a hole in my neck when I was born.
Age: 11 Favorite Teacher: Ms. Magee What do you like to do in your free time: In my free time, I like to cheer, dance, and write. Who is your favorite singer: Nicki Minaj What is the title of your favorite book: Heaven is for Real Why do you like writing: I like writing because I can express myself. Tell one weird fact about yourself: I can lie on my stomach and pull my legs to my head.
Age: 11 Favorite Teacher: Ms. Magee What do you like to do in your free time: I like to text my friends, cheer, and softball. Who is your favorite singer: Nicki Minaj What is the title of your favorite book: Heaven is for Real Why do you like writing: Because I can see myself in my writing. Tell one weird fact about yourself: I did a flip over home plate when I hit a homerun.
Caleb Jordan
Cambri Brewer
Celeste Garden-May
Age: 12 Favorite Teacher: Mr. Mooney What do you like to do in your free time: I skate at the roller dome and listen to music. Who is your favorite singer: Katy Perry What is the title of your favorite book: Diary of a Wimpy Kid What do you like writing: Horror Stories Tell one weird fact about yourself: I ate newspaper when I was six to eight years old.
Age: 11 Favorite Teacher: Ms. Magee What do you like to do in your free time: I like to play outside in my free time. Who is your favorite singer: Carrie Underwood What is the title of your favorite book: Heaven is for real Why do you like writing: I like writing because I can express my feelings on paper. Tell one weird fact about yourself: People may not know that I stutter when I am mad.
Danny Li
Braulio Hernandez
Bristun Sanford
Age: 12 Favorite Teacher: Mrs. Evans What do you like to do in your free time: I like to play outside. Who is your favorite singer: Michael Jackson What is the title of your favorite book: Crash Why do you like writing: Because it helps our hand writing get better. Tell one weird fact about yourself: I like taking pictures of my dogs and editing them.
Age: 12 Favorite Teacher: Ms. Magee What do you like to do in your free time: I like to read, ride my bike, and watch T.V. Who is your favorite singer: Bruno Mars What is the title of your favorite book: Among the Enemy Why do you like writing: I like writing because I can speak on paper. Tell one weird fact about yourself: I am very sarcastic.
Charlsie Ellis
Danielle Ford
Age: 11 Favorite Teacher: Mrs. Pope What do you like to do in your free time: I like to play basketball with my couins. Who is your favorite singer: Beyonce What is the title of your favorite book: Dork Diaries Why do you like writing: I like to write, because it lets me learn more about the world. Tell one weird fact about yourself: I don’t like candy.
Age: 12 Favorite Teacher: Mrs. Moreno What do you like to do in your free time: I love listening to music, watching movies, or going outside. (Texting too!) Who is your favorite singer: Katy Perry and Lady Gaga What is the title of your favorite book: The Hunger Games Trilogy. Why do you like writing: I only like writing when I have to write about something interesting. Tell one weird fact about yourself: I am sometimes an air head.
Age: 11 Favorite Teacher: Mrs. Moreno What do you like to do in your free time: I like to play with my dogs or watch T.V. Who is your favorite singer: Chris Tomlin What is the title of your favorite book: In a Heart Beat Why do you like writing: I like writing a little but not all the time. Tell one weird fact about yourself: I like to drag race with my family.
Darius Smith
Evan Packowski
Gabbi Runnels
Hailey Conway
Age: 11 Favorite Teacher: Mrs. Lomas What do you like to do in your free time: I like to go outside in my free time. Who is your favorite singer: Luke Bryan What is the title of your favorite book: The Missing Why do you like writing: I like writing because I can tell a story. Tell one weird fact about yourself: I don’t like a cold breakfast unless it is cereal.
Age: 11 Favorite Teacher: Mrs. Hinton What do you like to do in your free time: I like to play sports and watch T. V. Who is your favorite singer: James Fortune What is the title of your favorite book: Kickoff Why do you like writing: It is fun and inspiring. Tell one weird fact about yourself: I have a colorful personality.
Age: 11 Favorite Teacher: Mrs. Bullock What do you like to do in your free time: I like to play sports and video games. Who is your favorite singer: Bruno Mars What is the title of your favorite book: Percy Jackson Titans Curse Why do you like writing: It is fun and just has meaning. Tell one weird fact about yourself: I like comics.
Age: 11 Favorite Teacher: Mrs. Fordham What do you like to do in your free time: I love to ride four wheelers and go to the creek. Who is your favorite singer: Hank Williams and Colt Ford What is the title of your favorite book: Night Fires Why do you like writing: Because I love being creative and telling people about the stuff I make up. Tell one weird fact about yourself: I love having fun. I can make anything fun or funny.
Age: 11 Favorite Teacher: Mrs. Dyer What do you like to do in your free time: I like to read. Who is your favorite singer: Cadie Calhoun What is the title of your favorite book: A Series of Unfortunate Events Why do you like writing: I like creative writing, because I can make stuff up and be creative. Tell one weird fact about yourself: I can turn my tongue green. Can you believe that?
Hannah Hanson
Isaiah Jones
Jerri Hurt
Kaitlyn Sisco
Karrie Bond
Age: 11 Favorite Teacher: Mrs. Stinson and Ms. Magee What do you like to do in your free time: I love to cheer, swim, gym, and watch movies. Who is your favorite singer: Selena Gomez What is the title of your favorite book: Crash Why do you like writing: It is fun and people get to hear your voice. Tell one weird fact about yourself: I am a drama queen. Can you believe that?
Age: 11 Favorite Teacher: Mrs. Moreno What do you like to do in your free time: I like to play video games. I also like to watch 7th Heaven with my family. Who is your favorite singer: Skillet What is the title of your favorite book: Big Nate 3 Why do you like writing: I like being creative and telling stories to my 2 younger siblings. Tell one weird fact about yourself: At least two of my relatives fought in D-Day.
Age: 12 Favorite Teacher: Mrs. Hinton What do you like to do in your free time: I like to hang with my friends or read sometimes. Who is your favorite singer: Katy Perry What is the title of your favorite book: The Magic Tree House Why do you like writing: I like writing because I get to put down what I think or something about myself. Tell one weird fact about yourself: Sometimes I may talk in my sleep. Every once in a blue moon.
Age: 11 Favorite Teacher: Mrs. Moreno and Mrs. Hillman What do you like to do in your free time: I like to draw, read, watch movies, and play the piano. Who is your favorite singer: Def Leppard, Kiss, and Journey What is the title of your favorite book: Three Black Swans Why do you like writing: I like writing because you can express things you can’t say out loud. Tell one weird fact about yourself: My ankles pop.
Age: 12 Favorite Teacher: Mrs. Stinson What do you like to do in your free time: Read Who is your favorite singer: Justin Bieber What is the title of your favorite book: The Cay Why do you like writing: It seems very fun to me. Tell one weird fact about yourself: I do not have a fact that no one knows.
Kate Smallwood
Katherine Solano
Katie Foster
Kayla Tweedy
Lauren Gates
Age: 12 Favorite Teacher: Mrs. Lomas What do you like to do in your free time: Read, play soccer, sing, and dance Who is your favorite singer: Selena Gomez What is the title of your favorite book: Ruined Why do you like writing: I get to express myself in words. Tell one weird fact about yourself: Most of my fingers are double jointed.
Age: 11 Favorite Teacher: Mrs. Moreno What do you like to do in your free time: Read a good book Who is your favorite singer: Maroon 5 What is the title of your favorite book: Seekers the Series Why do you like writing: It is fun to express myself when I have a good idea. Tell one weird fact about yourself: I sometimes snort when I laugh.
Age: 11 Favorite Teacher: Mrs. Fordham What do you like to do in your free time: I love to be with my friends and family. Who is your favorite singer: Nicki Minaj What is the title of your favorite book: “Else Where” Why do you like writing: It lets me let loose and relax. Tell one weird fact about yourself: I sing in the shower to “Row Row Row Your Boat.”
Age: 11 Favorite Teacher: Mrs. Hinton What do you like to do in your free time? Play the piano, practice my flute, play soccer & softball Who is your favorite singer? I like Selena Gomez and Taylor Swift. What is the title of your favorite book? Well, it’s a series, The Clique. Why do you like writing? It helps explain what you’re trying to say without saying it. Tell one weird fact about yourself: I am ambidextrous.
Age: 11 Favorite Teacher: Ms. Magee What do you like to do in your free time: Play, sing, dance, eat, and sleep Who is your favorite singer: Chris Brown What is the title of your favorite book: Twilight Why do you like writing: It is a way to create an educational writing. Tell one weird fact about yourself: My left hand is smaller than my right one.
Lauren Valentine
Lindsey Draughn
Mallory Nicholson
Savannah Davis
Tori Lack
Age: 11 Favorite Teacher: Mrs. Lomas What do you like to do in your free time: I enjoy playing softball, traveling, and playing with my Chihuahua, Cricket. Who is your favorite singer: Nicki Minaj What is the title of your favorite book: The Hunger Games Why do you like writing: Because you can express your creativity. Tell one weird fact about yourself: I am 5’8.
Age: 11 Favorite Teacher: Ms. Evans What do you like to do in your free time: Read and watch T.V. Who is your favorite singer: Craig Morgan What is the title of your favorite book: When You Reach Me Why do you like writing: I like it because it is fun. Tell one weird fact about yourself: I love cheese!
Age: 11 Favorite Teacher: Mrs. Moreno What do you like to do in your free time: I like to design and sew. Who is your favorite singer: Justin Bieber What is the title of your favorite book: Clara’s War Why do you like writing: It gives me a chance to express my feeling. Tell one weird fact about yourself: I write when I am mad or upset.
Age: 11 Favorite Teacher: All teachers What do you like to do in your free time: I like to hang out and listen to music. Most importantly text. Who is your favorite singer: Kellie Pickler and Sugarland, also Christian music What is the title of your favorite book: The Giving Tree Why do you like writing: Writing lets me express what is on my heart. Tell one weird fact about yourself: I am kind of a tom boy, Shhhhh…
Age: 11 Favorite Teacher: Mrs. Moreno What do you like to do in your free time: Play with my brother, Davis, and read and draw Who is your favorite singer: Bridget Mendler What is the title of your favorite book: A Series of Unfortunate Events Why do you like writing: It helps me express myself. Tell one weird fact about yourself: I am really loud and outgoing.
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The PANTHER PRINT
Arts&Entertainment
Dress for success!
December 2011
Story by Anna MURDOCK
How to look your best when you get dressed for PUES
A Review: Courageous The movie Courageous is a great movie. If you liked Fireproof and Facing the Giants, you will love Courageous. This wonderful movie stars Alex Kendrick, Ben Davies, Ken Bevel, Kevin Downes, and T.C. Stallings. Courageous sends a great message to men on how to be a good father. This movie also tells you that you should make more time By Josh for your chilYOUNG dren. You never know when it could be the last time you see them. Courageous tells you how to be a good husband, too. This movie implies that most kids that grow up with a bad father or no father at all are the most likely to end up in prison or in trouble. This touching movie teaches you to trust God even in your loneliest and darkest times. After this movie, you should have learned lots of important things. Courageous can change your life.
re you the type of person that likes to be dressed up all the time but just can’t find a way with your uniform? I know I am! If you need some advice, keep reading! It is very easy to be fashionable with a uniform. One way you could spruce up your outfit is to switch up your belt. Instead of just wearing the same belt every day, wear a different one every once in a while. It is still in the dress code but looks fabulous! Maybe get an animal print one? If you want to, you could just wear a solid color. It really just makes your outfit pop! Another way is to wear some jewelry! I think that if you are a simple girl that it would be best for you if you got some solid colors. Unfortunately, there are some
divas in the world, so they should get some hang-down earrings instead of small ones and long necklaces instead of short. It doesn’t really matter what color, shape, or size they all are. Just in case you have a moment, animal print or monogrammed would look fan-ta-bu-lous! After you have done all of that, get some accessories. If you have no idea what I am talking about, then you need to read closely! You need to wear a bow or a headband. Then, when it gets cold, you could really get your fashion on and wear a scarf! Also, I would wear some gloves and furry boots. Now for all you girls that like to wear makeup. Sometimes when you look like you’ve just woken up, it is okay to wear a dash of makeup, but, unfortunately, your face isn’t a coloring book.
Makeup isn’t a Crayola marker. All you need is a few strokes of mascara, a light color eye shadow, and some lip gloss to cover up the morning look. So girls, can we manage to keep the distraction off the face and not look like a clown? Now can we talk about the actual uniform? Do you just absolutely dislike your uniform and want to get rid of it as fast as you can? Well, here’s a solution. First of all, it is very hard to keep wearing the same old boring thing every day. So, how about a turtleneck instead of the collared shirt? I wear that often, and I get lots of compliments. It is still in uniform and very cute! You could also wear a vest! Now, last, but not least, shoes! I personally think that Toms are totally in style and super cute!
Although I do understand that some classes have to wear tennis shoes for P.E. Get some that fit you best and make you feel more comfortable. Now, after all of these tips, you should be good to go!
Band students shine at concert
Review: Real Steel
Enormous performance
Real Steel is a robot boxing movie with a dash of human drama. Human boxing has been replaced by one-thousand pound, metal-smashing, technologically-advanced robots. As a down-and-out human and retired boxer, Charlie meets his eleven-year-old son for the first time. They go on an adventure by finding an old sparring robot in a metal junkyard. The father and son team up to teach the sparring robot, By Natalie Atom, human WEST boxing moves that other robots can’t defend against. Atom wins his way all the way to fighting Zeus, the number one boxing champ, in a David and Goliath type match. The movie has many nail-biting fights that take excitement to the max. In between all the excitement are tear-jerking moments that touch the hardest of hearts as father and son rely on how much they need each other. Real Steel is full of twists and turns that will keep you on the edge of your seat. I give this one 5 out of 5 Panther Paws and a must-see for movie-goers of all ages. I hope you enjoy the movie as much as I did!
Petal Upper Elementary’s first show choir performance of the 2011-2012 school year was held at the Petal Performing Arts Center in Petal on Nov. 1. The show choir group, “Pizzazz,” performed to the songs “It Don’t Mean a Thing” and “This Is It.” Pizzazz’s show choir director, Mrs. Mary Moak, constructed the choreography along with the help of a former high school student named Whitley. Pizzazz is a fifty person singing group, and they gave an enormous By Kaitlyn performance! SISCO The night was chilly, and Petal Pizzazz show choir performed second to last receiving a standing ovation. Kaitlyn Sisco, Pizzazz member, stated after the performance, “I believe that we worked as a team, and even if we made a few mistakes, we did our best!” Petal Upper Elementary’s assistant principal, Mike Lott, was there to support the show choir group and was glad to see them work so hard. The show choir group has
rehearsal every Tuesday from 2:30-5:30 after school, and they did their best to prepare and make the performance happen. Pizzazz learned the choreography and lyrics to both of their songs. Show choir group member, Jayla Keyes, said before the performance, “I’m nervous, but I can’t wait for this fantastic per-
formance that was well practiced!” Also, Devan Russell replied to Jayla’s comment and said, “I am excited that they are performing, and I know they will do great performing for our community! I am anxious to see what will come. I can’t wait for the next show!” The Petal Pizzazz show choir worked very hard and came out with an enormous performance!
The crowd was growing, people were staring, and stage fright was passing through every band student on the stage. No one knew what to do. They only thing that they could do was look at the crowd and each other. This was the 9-weeks test that was held at the Petal Performing Arts Center at Petal High School. Our band teacher, Mr. Word, told the band students that the least they could do to get a passing grade on the test was to show up. So, that is what most people did. Only a few people were not able to By T.J. make it, or they didHENLY n’t want to come. But, if you did show up and did not participate, then the highest you could get was a 70, and if you came and only participated in a few songs or demonstrations and behaved, then the highest you could get was an 85. If you did all you were supposed to do, then you would have gotten a 100. Almost every single band student got a 100, but only a few people didn’t get the grade they had hoped for. After the concert was over and everyone was back at school, they found out what their grades were. Then, they found out who were the first, second, and players for all of the different instruments. T.J. Henly was first for the trombones, Katelin Smith was second, and Jaquan Bean was third. Hunter Gammill was first for trumpets, Josh Franklin was second, and Darius Smith was third. There were only three baritone players, so Mr. Word only counted first place, and that was Joseph Brickson. There were only two French horn players, and the best was Luke Delapasse. The next 9-weeks test will be in December, and we will find out more information about who will take first, second, and third for all of the different instruments this time around.
THE PANTHER PRINT
December 2011
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Book Review: The Sisters Grimm, Book 1 By Emma SEAVEY
Sabrina and Daphne Grimm arrive home from school to find their parents are nowhere to be found. All that is left of their parents is their abandoned car and a blood-red hand print on the dashboard. The sisters move from foster home to foster home, escaping every time. Their supposedly dead grandmother comes to pick them up from the adoption center. They soon find out they are long lost relatives of
Jacob and Willhelm Grimm, the famous brothers who wrote fairytales. Together, with the help of their grandmother, Sabrina and Daphne stop a giant and become closer to finding their parents. People who will like this book are people who love mysteries, adventures, and fairy tales. The Sisters Grimm is a book about families coming together when times are tough and never giving up.
Book Review: Heaven is for Real By Grace KUESPERT
Heaven is for Real, written by Todd Burpo, is about a little boy named Colton Burpo. Colton started having bad stomach problems. He went to the hospital a couple of times because of it. Colton finally had to have surgery. Colton’s dad is a preacher, and he started getting angry at God for making Colton have to go through this because Colton could die. Everything turns out good and they leave the hospi-
tal and return home. Colton mentions Jesus and God at times, and it makes Todd, Colton’s dad, curious. Colton mentions him going to heaven and sitting in God’s lap during his painful surgery. This book will make you laugh, cry, and cheer for the Burpo family as they find out all of the great things Colton experienced on his trip to heaven. If you want to find out the rest, read Heaven is for Real soon.
Alyssa Heath at the meet and greet with country music singer Colt Ford.
Petal’s 1st Fall Festival was a big hit
Ms. Magee & Mrs. Stinson - by Justin Stephens
Bama Panther by Devvon Blansett
Art corner By Joseph Brickson Santa Panther by Kaitlyn Sisco
What Big Red Said by Kaitlyn Sisco
The first annual Petal Fall Festival was held on Oct. 29, in Willie Hinton Park, formerly known as Relay Park. There were over sixty vendors selling arts and crafts, furniture, clothing, and a variety of other items. The festival also had seventeen food vendors ranging from Backyard Burger and Cuevas Fish House to Gator Bites, which sold different alligator delicacies. In the evening hours, there were musical acts including Natalie Kirk, Cadie Calhoun, The King Fridays, and the headliner act, Colt Ford. According to City of Petal sources, there were more than 3,000 people who attended the Petal Fest. There were several events throughout the daytime hours, including the “Boo”tiful Pet Contest, with all By Alyssa proceeds going to the HEATH Southern Pines Animal Shelter. The judges awarded the Cutest, Scariest, and Owner/Pet-Look-Alike awards to selected animals. There were also other enjoyable events, such as the Petal Show Choir soloists, Jo Carlisle and Blake Nagy’s Elite cheer, and performance by GYMme’s Tae Kwon Do. A children’s village was sponsored by Vineyard Church that housed several fun jumps, face painting, pony rides and an array of other children’s activities. The festival ended with a performance by Colt Ford, a Nashville recording artist, who drew an even larger crowd than the festival’s daytime activities. Several people were given the opportunity to have a “meet and greet” with Colt Ford and take pictures with him. According to City of Petal officials, this festival will be an annual event to be enjoyed by all Petal residents and residents from surrounding counties.
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THE PANTHER PRESS
December 2011
Petal Gifted students travel to New Orleans
Hello McDonald’s... All of the students at Petal Upper arches.” Elementary School who have reached Students had to bring their own their Accelerated Reader goals got to money in order for them to go and purgo to McDonalds for a reward chase what they wanted from field trip on Nov. 3. McDonalds. In order for the students to go, Before the trip began, several they had to reach their A.R. students reported about how goals. If they did not reach their they were feeling. A.R. goals, they had to stay at Grace Kuespert said, “This Petal Upper Elementary with a will be so fun!” teacher. Brianna Dampson said, “It The students who met their should be yummy!” By Leah goals went to McDonalds with These students were so right! THARP their social studies teacher. The McDonalds reward field When they got to their social trip was so much fun, and I can’t studies class, their teacher took them to wait to see what the next nine weeks get on the bus headed for “the golden field trip is going to be!
Merry Christmas to all! The 2011 Petal School District Christmas card design was selected from entries submitted by Petal Upper Elementary School art students of Mrs. Brooke Bowden. The card selected was created by 6th grader, Casey Cameron. Casey was presented with a $25.00 gift card from Dr. John Buchanan, Superintendent.
Sugar High!
PUE students host sweet fundraiser for veterans memorial
The lucky lottery has finished! 5th money goes to a great cause,” says and 6th grade students at Petal Upper Devan R. Lauren Gates says, “It is Elementary School have been buying very helpful to the Veteran’s memoritickets for two chances to win baskets al.” full of candy to benefit the “It is a great idea,” says Jayla Veteran’s Memorial. K. “It is very interesting and The two baskets, sponsored helpful to our community,” says by 6th grade social studies Weslie B. I would say this is a teachers, were filled with goodgreat community project. ies such as Petal Panther hats, An informative poll was lots of candy, gift cards, and taken from thirty students here many more exciting things. at P.U.E.S. Their answers were Tickets were on sale for $1 By Danny LI quite surprising. each. All of the sales benefitted Q: Did you buy a ticket, the Veteran’s Memorial near Willie donate money, or contribute in any Hinton Park near the Civic Center. way to the memorial? As well as buying tickets to benefit Yes: 43% the memorial, students donated money No: 57% for it. They also had a chance to buy Although it appears that most stubricks for $50 dollars or larger bricks dents did not purchase tickets, the for more. average number of tickets that stuThe bricks had names on them hon- dents purchased was between two and oring Veterans of their choice. The three. memorial was finished near Veteran’s Also, Emma Seavey purchased Day. twenty-three tickets at one time! The memorial was Petal’s first Students at Petal Upper Elementary memorial honoring veterans. are always ready to give back to a Here’s what some students say, “Our great cause.
The 6th grade Petal gifted students met the magnificent streets and green swamps of New Orleans! Cindy Lomas, Lacy Dykes, and Beth Roberts took a trip with their gifted students to the Swamp Tour in New Orleans, Louisiana. The students got to do some very interesting things with their chaperBy Haley ANDREWS ones and group members. Charter busses were used to transport the classes from place to place. The sights were amazing, especially the Superdome! The Swamp Tour was filled with algae, plants, and large alligators. It sure was a sight! The parents could come along with their kids and chaperone their group. The driver spoke about the plants and their names through a speaker. The classes all learned a lot about the swamp environment. The classes loaded up in the buses and went to the Riverwalk mall for lunch. The lunches were all purchased from Vill, a pizza place, and contained a slice of pepperoni pizza, Sierra Mist Natural, and a chocolate chip cookie. The students were all allowed to hit the shops afterwards with their group members. The students all had a large amount of fun with their group members in the swamps and the city. Kayla Tweedy says, “It was an amazing experience for the gifted students to have fun!” Riley Mitchell says, “It was good.” Baylee Grimsley says, “I think it was very fun, and the swamp tour was exciting.” On the way back, the students were laughing with their friends and trying on their glitter-filled Mardi Gras masks and other items. The trip was a blast!
Sixth-grade students had a blast on the Swamp Tour and even loved on a few gators while they were there!
THE PANTHER PRESS
December 2011
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P E TA L P A R T N E R S H I P S
SURVIVAL TIPS:
Former sixth graders look back at their time @ PUE Fourth graders ask Madame Dylanpool Oglesby for advice School Eighth graders give 7th graders some insider tips about Middle
When I was a sixth-grader… Contributions made from PHS students (& former sixth-graders) When I was a sixth-grader, I had Mrs. Pope. She was a funny teacher. She made things fun and took her time while teaching. – Savanna Rhymes- 9th grade When I was a sixth-grader, I fell asleep in class, and my teacher had a horn. The teacher blew the horn, and I jumped up. I flipped my desk when I jumped. – Will Dunn- 9th grade I remember when I was in 6th grade. If we passed our test, then my teacher would give us a candy bar. If we allowed him to, he hung up our test in the classroom. He only did that if we made an A on the test. – Dianna Chambers- 10th grade When I was a sixth grader, a kid got stuck in the toilet during one of our bathroom breaks,
and we had to pull him out! – Bo Patrick When I was a sixth grader, my favorite teacher, Mrs. Hillman, was walking across the room. She had just turned off the lights and was making us watch a video about war. She slipped on some water like a cartoon character slips on a banana peel. Everyone laughed until they were in tears. Thankfully, she was okay and laughing also. – Jordan Mabile When I was a sixth-grader, I got to clean up a 250-foot-tall tree, thanks to Hurricane Katrina. – Kent Martin When I was a sixth-grader, I started dating. – Jeffrey McIver
When I was a sixth-grader, I let wild chickens loose in the teachers’ lounge! – Hunter Sylvest When I was a sixth-grader, all the cute boys had a locker by mine. One day I was walking past them through the hall traffic, and I fell right in the middle of them! – Jenna Bryant When I was a sixth-grader, I was a skinny 5’8”, 211 pound kid. Now, I’m a 6’2”, 306 pound kid. I’ve always been small! – Gemonee Brown When I was a sixth-grader, I had just moved to Petal and didn’t have too many friends. Luckily people here are pretty nice and accepted me, and I ended up having a lot of friends. – Sarah Feck
4th graders better get ready Madame Dylanpool Oglesby offers advice to incoming PUE’ers Dear P.U.E.S., What would you do if you were bullied? Your Friend, Christian Servolini Dear Christian, First of all, I am so sorry that you are being bullied. It is very wrong of people to do that to you. I think that if you are being bullied, you should not try to handle it all by yourself. You should try to tell a teacher whom you trust. Teachers are able to handle situations very well that we can’t. After you tell a teacher, if the problem still remains, maybe you should go to the principal or another teacher. Hopefully, you shouldn’t have to do that because teachers usually can handle it pretty well. Most of all, Chrisitan, if you are being bullied, you should learn to just brush it off. I know it probably hurts your feelings, but that’s what bullies want. So, if you act like it doesn’t bother you and you don’t say anything back, then they will probably stop. Remember that you always have other friends
around who will treat you nice and that care for you! Yours Truly, Madame Dylanpool Oglesby Dear P.U.E.S., I have a partner that is always playing when we are working. Do you know what I can do? Whenever we’re reading he plays a lot! Sincerely, Nathan
We have all been there and done that when it comes to partners who don’t do what they are supposed to do. Hopefully, your teacher will correct them when they see them talking. Now, some kids are sneaky and talk when the teacher isn’t looking. If this is the case, you should let your teacher know to keep an eye on him every once in a while to see when he is talking. After she finds this out, he/she will probably stop. Sincerely, Madame Dylanpool Oglesby
Dear Nathan, I hear you’ve been having problems with your partner! What a shame! It can be so aggravating when someone is talking because you can’t focus on doing your work, and that is so important! So, this is a very big deal, and it needs to be fixed. I’m glad you wrote to me. If your partner is a girl, then I can totally understand. Girls like to talk a lot. If it’s a boy, then that makes sense, too. Boys like to play too much.
Madame Dylanpool Oglesby would like to thank Mrs. Mim’s fourth grade class for writing in to The Panther Print. Oh, and she has a few more words to some special students in Mrs. Mim’s class: Landon, 10,000 ÷ 10 is 1,000. Jaden, we do not do rocket science at P.U.E.S. Don’t worry! Tayja, hang in there with short division. You’ll get it eventually! Everyone has trouble at first. Last, but not least, Giselle, I am glad you are a loyal student. To answer your question, we have 5 periods at P.U.E.S.
ol? how to survive middle scr ho these tips... ses offe 8th graders in Mrs. Matheny’s historya clas Always have supplies for class. desk.
Never announce you have gum. Remember to turn off your phone. Take a shower. Go to bathroom before you leave home. Know your information. BE PREPARED. Do the right thing. Be a leader, not a follower. Brush your teeth. Plan when to go to bathroom and locker between classes. You only get 5 minutes!
NEVER touch the bottom of Respect others. Don’t wear sweater vests! Be yourself, not what others think you should be. Study. UNRAAVEL your sentences in lan guage arts. Justify your work. Don’t gossip. Complete your work.
Follow the rules. Always wear a belt and tuck in your shirt. There is NOT an upstairs no matter what the 8th graders say. Bring Mr. Vaughn food. Give Coach Smith gum. Do not pick your nose. NEVER ask an 8th grader for directions.
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THE PANTHER PRINT
December 2011