Senate Concurrent Resolution 596

A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION COMMENDING AND CONGRATULATING THE NORTHEAST JONES HIGH SCHOOL "LADY TIGER" BASKETBALL TEAM FOR WINNING THE STATE 4A CHAMPIONSHIP AND FOR THEIR OUTSTANDING 2003-2004 SEASON.

WHEREAS, the Northeast Jones High School "Lady Tiger" Basketball Team completed the 2003-2004 season in spectacular fashion by winning the Class 4A State Championship; and

WHEREAS, the Lady Tigers compiled an outstanding record of 32-3 in the 2003-2004 championship season, and the team members emphasized academics by achieving a 96 Team Grade Point Average; and

WHEREAS, on the road to the State Championship, the Lady Tigers won the West Jones Classic Tournament, the Petal Tournament, the Northeast Jones Classic, and placed second in the District and South State Regional Tournaments; and

WHEREAS, the Championship 2003-2004 Lady Tigers roster is as follows:

Player Position Year

Alicia Abney Guard Senior

Stevie Pugh Guard Junior

Nikki Simmons Forward Sophomore

Hope Jones Forward Senior, Captain

Santana Barnes Guard Junior

Deanna McMillan Guard Senior

Santana McGruder Guard Senior

Taphne Jackson Guard Senior, Captain

Jessica McKenzie Forward Senior, Captain

Kim Lewis Guard Sophomore

Kristin BlackledgeCenter Junior

Ebonie Jefferson Forward Sophomore

Sheree Hales Forward Senior

Consuela Tucker Center Freshman

WHEREAS, the team is ably coached by Head Coach Vicki Rutland and Assistant Coach Sherri Buxton who instilled a work ethic in this squad, emphasizing a tenacious defense; and

WHEREAS, it is with great pride that we recognize this group of student athletes, who have brought honor to their school, their community and to the State of Mississippi:

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE SENATE OF THE STATE OF MISSISSIPPI, THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES CONCURRING THEREIN, That we do hereby commend and congratulate the Northeast Jones High School "Lady Tiger" Basketball Team and Coach Vicki Rutland for their outstanding 2003-2004 season and for winning the Class 4A State Championship, and extend to them the best wishes of the Legislature for their future athletic and academic success.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That this resolution be presented to the team, be forwarded to Northeast Jones Principal Dwain Strickland and be made available to the Capitol Press Corps.