House Resolution 67

A RESOLUTION COMMENDING AND CONGRATULATING THE NORTHEAST JONES HIGH SCHOOL LADY TIGERS BASKETBALL TEAM FOR ITS OUTSTANDING 2003-2004 SEASON AND FOR WINNING THE STATE CHAMPIONSHIP.

WHEREAS, the Northeast Jones High School Lady Tigers Basketball Team finished the 2003-2004 season with a notable record of 32 wins and three losses and were victorious as Class 4A State Champions; and

WHEREAS, throughout their season, the Lady Tigers participated in several tournaments and placed first in the West Jones Classic Tournament, the Petal Tournament and the Northeast Jones Classic Tournament, and were the runners-up in the South State Tournament and the Class 4A District 5 Tournament; and

WHEREAS, the Lady Tigers were superbly coached and inspired by Coach Vicki Rutland, who has broadened the players' knowledge of the game and refined their skills and execution; and

WHEREAS, along with Coach Rutland's excellent coaching, the Tigers were also aided by Assistant Coach Sherri Buxton; Managers Candace Heidelberg, Daphne Jackson and Amber Pulliam; Statistician Clarence Mason; and Film and Public Announcer Robert Benoit; and

WHEREAS, the following young ladies have demonstrated superior play this season and are members of the Lady Tigers: Alicia Abney, Santana Barnes, Kristin Blackledge, Sheree Hales, Taphne Jackson, Ebonie Jefferson, Hope Jones, Kim Lewis, Santana McGruder, Jessica McKenzie, Deanna McMillan, Stevie Pugh, Nikki Simmons and Consuela Tucker; and

WHEREAS, the Northeast Jones High School Lady Tigers have developed a winning and cooperative spirit and a superb degree of sportsmanship, and their activities and attitude reflect great credit upon the individual players and their coaches and bring great honor to Northeast Jones High School; and

WHEREAS, the Lady Tigers not only demonstrate excellence and dedication in the game of basketball, but also in their studies, as evidenced by a team grade point average of 96; and

WHEREAS, it is the policy of the House of Representatives to recognize and commend excellence, especially when displayed by young people of our state, who are its future:

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES OF THE STATE OF MISSISSIPPI, That we commend and congratulate the Northeast Jones High School Lady Tigers Basketball Team and Coach Vicki Rutland for their outstanding 2003-2004 season, for winning the state championship and for displaying tireless devotion to their athletic endeavors.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That copies of this resolution be furnished to Northeast Jones High School, Coach Vicki Rutland, Assistant Coach Sherri Buxton and members of the Capitol Press Corps.