The Decade of the 1930s
In the USA and at ZHS

The ZHS school building, of which the community was immensely proud at its dedication and opening in 1926, was damaged by fire in 1935 and forced to close. For two years after its demise, students attended classes in community buildings (grades 9-12 in the bakery; grades 7-8 in the New England Hotel; grade 6 in the grocery store; grades 3, 4, and 5 in the city hall and grades 1 and 2 in the Schoolhouse Annex). The community rallied around the students. The renovated building opened again in 1937—the two story brick structure which was housed on what is now the location of R.B. Stewart Middle School, with the assistance of the WPA was dedicated once again 1937.

The Great Depression had transformed the American dream to somewhat of a nightmare and many Americans felt real desperation in this decade. Between 1929 and 1932 the average American annual income was $1,500. Poverty was an issue and income in Zephyrhills was significantly less than the national average and their precious school building was gone as well. One of FDR’s social programs, the WPA, helped to resurrect the valued ZHS physical plant in 1937. The era was wrought with concern for polio and other health outbreaks. Prevention and informational events included for example in 1939, ZHS parade to promote awareness and campaign for a cure to infantile paralysis (polio). As reported on January 27, 1939, “The ZHS students marched with Irene Hohenthaner as drum major who led the parade…the students assembled at the east entrance of the school to march in a parade to advance the infantile paralysis campaign.” Infantile paralysis (polio) was a constant fear in this era as were other diseases. ZHS was closed for two weeks around Thanksgiving vacation in 1931 due to a diphtheria outbreak in which a Richland child died and his family was quarantined. The State Board of Health is mentioned several times in news articles in this time frame in prevention and intervention efforts. The depression had impacted people significantly and money was scarce.

Throughout the country, the 1930s represented a very desperate time in public education. In the midst of the depression, cash money was very limited and families could not provide school clothes, supplies or books (which were not furnished).  School terms were shortened and teachers’ salaries were cut. Several sets of Pasco County School Board minutes during the 1930s show that the school board purchased books for certain families in Zephyrhills, presumably to facilitate their attendance at school. Photos of students at ZHS during this time frame show many children barefooted. Newspaper accounts discuss school timeframes and announce shortened sessions.   

Movies were hot and this is reflected in the publications at ZHS. Often there are reports in the newspaper of a family “motoring” to Tampa to see a movie and the names of the movies are mentioned with great pride. A sense of the Hollywood drama and enthusiasm is seen in the writings by students. The graduation photos of the class in 1935 have an air of the Great Gatsby (published in 1925 but widely read in this time frame) in their format as the students are clad in white trousers and sport jackets or lovely summer dresses, reminiscent of an afternoon tea. Noteworthy in this decade is the “Orange and Black,” the ZHS School Newspaper, which was printed in the Zephyrhills Newspaper then named, The Pasco Free Press.  It featured editorials and very open communication. The Orange and Black lobbied for a football team which was not to come to fruition until the 1940’s and also wrote editorials in support of a home economics program and vocational class training. In 1936, another school newspaper issued at the school was called “The Zephyrette.”

In one issue of the “Orange and Black” a lengthy article details the dress fads and says,

In regard to recreation, many accounts detail beach parties at Sunset Beach at Lake Pasadena and reported of wiener roasts. Parties often involved parlor games and board games.  Often the parties and social events discussed in the newspaper stated that the group had refreshments, socialized and then played checkers, dominoes, or put together a puzzle. Big bands were significant. Music was a treat in all types and local musicians were popular. The school had a Glee Club and often presented not only at school events but in the community.

Franklin Roosevelt influenced popular culture through his Fireside Chats and this is the timeframe of Will Rogers’ homespun philosophy which is reflected in plays and writings at ZHS. Class Night was a culmination of the year’s activities for seniors and occurred at the Zephyr Hotel as the “event of the year,” and included clever recitations, toasts and musical duets and solos as well as place cards, decorations and hometown elegance as an important rite of passage for high school seniors who are said almost every year to have voted the event “the most worthwhile of their high school career.”  Class Plays were also an enormous social event for the Zephyrhills community and reflected the folksy warmth of Rogers and the era.  Typically the Junior and Senior class presented the play and they were often comedies and definitely reflected the Will Rogers type of humor. Examples included Harvest Queen in 1939, The Indian Princess in 1938, Black Eyed Susan in 1935; Fickle Fortune Comedy in three acts in 1932.

Graduations featured the granting of the “Steven’s Cup” to the most “worthwhile student.” This cup was donated by the tourist club of Zephyrhills and was presented annually as one of the star community awards; a few winners in the 30’s were Pearl Snider in 1939 and Sarah Parsons in 1935. In 1938, the News said, “the highest award is the Steven’s Cup, given to the most worthwhile” senior. This cup is awarded by the vote of the faculty on the basis of character, service and leadership in the school and community, participating in worthwhile activities and achievements, scholarships in the school and community…”

Principals and teachers during this period were selected somewhat informally by the local trustees of the school in a nomination process. The discussion of the appointment of Burch Cornelius in 1939 goes through the process. Community input is very significant and the principal is expected to be a community leader and get-along with all factions. The principal also taught classes. One news article discusses Principal C. D. Johnson teaching a business class and taking the students on a field trip to the then Tampa Times where they saw the Associated Press Tickers and watched the printing of the newspaper. Principals changed frequently during this decade with six principals in the ten year span.  

In sports, Pre-Title IX, the boys and girls basketball teams traveled and games were played at the location by the girls and then the boys. For example, an article in the Free Press from 1938 says, “Zephyr boys and Pasco Hi of Dade City started the game, the work of both teams was slow until the last quarter, when the Zephyrs got going and won 15 to 10 with good team work….Evening games started by Zephyr girls against Brandon and it was a good game and close most of the way with Coach Mounts worried until the cowbell was rung at close, when Zephyr girls had 21 to Brandon’s 16.” Note that the team was called the Zephyrs, not the Bulldogs in this decade. The games which were played were not only with a few local schools but also games were played with college groups and sometimes the town team verses the school team around 1930

Commencement was a very important event. Speakers at commencement tended to be state-wide leaders including religious and political leaders as well as college presidents and deans. For example in 1938: Dr. W. T. Watson, President of Florida Bible College; 1939: Dr. John Sherman, President of the University of Tampa, 1937: Professor Barnett of Southern College; and the entire community was invited to attend these speaking engagements which often addressed social or cultural issues of timely importance.

Technology was changing during the 1930’s and the depression was a time of struggle. Review the newspaper accounts and other archives from the decade of the 1930s….posted in order from most recent to earliest….1939-1930!

HIGHLIGHTS OF 1939

Commencement Exercises Held Last Friday Evening, The Pasco Free Press, May 12, 1939
Medals Awarded Several Worthy Pupils and 17 Graduates
The twenty-seventh annual commencement for Zephyrhills High School, honoring the Class of 1939, was held on Friday, May 5, beginning at eight p.m. Before the notes of the opening march, the big auditorium was well filled, a special section being reserved for relatives and friends of the graduates. Member of the Junior class, in dainty colored formals, acted as ushers.
To the strains of the “Tannhauser March” by the high school orchestra, directed by Mrs. Spooner and with Ruth Elisabeth Smith at the piano, members of the class filed sedately in with Mary Jo England in the lead. Eleven girls in white gowns and caps and six boys in grey took their places in the semicircle on the stage followed by school and visiting dignitaries.
After the invocation by Reverend Frank Hartmann, Miss Helen Lefler, Salutatorian, gave the Salutatory followed by a vocal solo by Phillip Stillman. Principal James T. Campbell, acting as Master of Ceremonies, introduced Dr. John H. Sherman, President of the University of Tampa, who made the principal address for the evening.
He was followed by the Valedictory by Miss Pearl Snider, Valedictorian.
Mr. Campbell then introduced Commander William Hamilton of the Zephyr Post No. 118, who in turn introduced Burt Ford who presented the merit awards from the Legion to the outstanding girl and boy of the Eighth grade.
These were Irene Lefler and Stanford Delk. Each received an honor certificate, a large medal and small medals made as a brooch for the girl and a lapel button for the boy. This is an annual event.
Because of the unexpected presence of County School Superintendent, Revels, Chairman Storms of the School Board of Education transferred him the privilege of presenting the diplomas. This was followed by the giving of awards by Mr. Campbell. Miss Pearl Snider, as Valedictorian, received the medal for outstanding scholar and also the Stevens Cup. Mary Jo England received the medal for Activities, as did Hope Taylor. Gladys McGuire, who was an outstanding pupil, but did not have all four years at Zephyrhills, was given a special medal by members of the faculty.
After the benediction by Dr. H. E. Murkett and while the orchestra played “Priest’s March,” graduates and dignitaries filed slowly out and went down the hall to the library where an informal reception was held.

Baccalaureate Sermon At First Baptist Church, The Pasco Free Press, April 28, 1939
Next Sunday April 30 Class To Hear Rev. Jones
Appropriate exercises for the Class of 1939 of the Zephyrhills school will start on Sunday, April 30. The annual Baccalaureate sermon will be delivered to the class by the Reverend Joe Jones at the Baptist church at 11 o’clock.
On Tuesday night will be the annual observance of Class Night at the school and a good program has been prepared which will be of especial interest to members of the class and their families.
Formal Commencement exercises will be held on Friday, May 5, with the Seniors attired in academic caps and gowns. They will wear them at the Baccalaureate sermon, also.
Services will open at 8 o’clock and the main speaker of the evening will be Dr. Sherman, president of the University of Tampa.
The following members of the Senior Class of the Zephyrhills High School are candidates for diplomas at the commencement exercises May 5. Those who are actually to receive diplomas will be determined by final examinations and checking of school records this weekend and next.
Jimmie Lee Bass, Ashley Clardy, Ralph Green, Phillip Guy, Phillip Stillman, Buck Tippins, Helen Baggett, Vera Branch, Mary Jo England, Juanita Green, Helen Lefler, Helen McGuire, Gladys McGuire, Altha Mott, Dorothy Richards, Pearl Snider, and Hope Taylor.
Records up the present show that Pearl Snider is First Honor Student and Helen Lefler, Second Honor Student.

Burch Cornelius of Haines City Will Be Principal, The Zephyrhills News, May 12, 1939
The local trustees of the Zephyrhills School, Mr. William Hamilton, chairman, Mr. F. B. Ames and Mr. J. W. Collier met Monday night at the home of Mr. Collier to nominate the faculty for the year 1939-40. The following were re-appointed: Mrs. Hamilton, 1st grade; Miss Kirkland, 2nd grade; Miss Parsons, 3rd grade; Miss Brown, 4th grade; Mrs. Price, 5th grade, Mrs. J. F. Jones was nominated to replace Mrs. Higginson in the 6th grade. Mrs. McKillips and Mr. Conner were reappointed in the High School. Mr. Blocker, Miss Cartwright, and Miss Sparkman, all of Dade City, to replace Miss Fewell, Miss Fogg and Mr. Mounts in the High School faculty. Miss Plank is taking a business course and plans to enter some line of business in the near future. No one has been appointed to fill her place as yet, but the trustees are hoping to fill this vacancy with a man teacher. The place of music teacher is yet to be filled.
Appointment of a principal proved to be the biggest headache as there were only nine applicants for the job. Mr. Burch Cornelius of Haines City was finally appointed, after some time was spent in discussing the qualities of each man, all being well qualified and able to fill the position.
The trustees sincerely hope these selections will be backed up by each patron of the Zephyrhills School.

American Legion Citizenship Awards To be Given at Commencement, The Pasco Free Press, May 5, 1939
For the first time in the history of Zephyrhills School, American Legion Citizenship Awards will be given to the boy and the girl in the eighth grade who are selected as most worthy of this honor. The awards consist of a medal and a certificate for both the boy and the girl and a brooch for the girl and a lapel button for the boy.
The boy and the girl who are to receive these awards have been selected by the American Legion and the high school faculty on the basis of ratings in a number of different qualities. The boys were rated in Scholarship, courage, leadership and services. The girls were rated in courage, companionship, character, service and scholarship.
These awards will be given each year hereafter by the Legion as part of its campaign for Americanism and good citizenship.

Commencement This Friday Night, The Pasco Free Press, May 5, 1939
This week marks the twenty-seventh commencement for the Zephyrhills High School and is the very best of all, according to the seventeen graduates.
The ceremonies opened Sunday with the Baccalaureate sermon at the Baptist Church. The graduates wore their caps and gowns—girls in white and boys in gray. Reverend Joe Jones preached the sermon and gave the young people a number of good thoughts to carry with them.
Tuesday night with Class night and fond mamas and papas gathered with admiring relatives and friends to hear the fun part of the week, Jimmie Bass acted as Radio Announcer and the program was given that is printed in full on another page. Friday night comes the event of events, Commencement.

The Orange and Black—the school paper of the Zephyrhills High School, The Pasco Free Press, April 14, 1939
Dates for Junior and Senior Prom-We promise you that we would give the dates to you this week so here it is. Glady’s McGuire has as her escort, Bryon Womack. They’ll make a cute couple.
Annette Arnot is going with Roy Turner. It looks as though Roy has more back bone than we thought he did. Dorothy Richards will have Ralph Green for an escort. Doesn’t it surprise you?
Hope Taylor is being escorted by John Rasmussen. But who else would either of them go with as it stands now. Irene Hohenthaner and Billy Green will attend the prom together. It’s getting to be quite a case. Phyllis Taylor will be sitting the dances out with Don Storms. They don’t mind being wall flowers as long as they’re together.
Helen Lefler is being escorted by Bill Hartmann. He’s a stranger to some but not to Helen.
Virginia Stapleton is slipping out with the boy who’s got rhythm in his feet, Alan Chenkin. Here’s hoping Alan uses his rhythm.
Eunice Walker, a stranger to us, will be escorted by none other than Seth Plank.
Coral Walker, another stranger, will attend the prom with Glen Alexander. Glen’s really giving a girl a break.
Mary Jo England will be escorted by her one and only, none other than Louis Gall.
Pearl Snider will go with Buck Tippins or will she? We won’t know for sure until we see them walking in.
Mary Lefler and Norman Rasmussen will repeat last year by being together again this year. Springs makes the boy’s fancy turn to love.
Altha Mott will be escorted by James Ward. It’s getting to be a habit, Altha.
Matilda Shoard is Ashley Clardy’s date for the big event. Who is she, Ashley?
Juanita Green has asked Carl Parsons. Carl will be back at the school parties again after not attending for a long time.
Vera Branch will be escorted by a Dade City boy, Austin Handcock. From all reports he is a grand dancer.
We’ll have the rest next week if we’ve overlooked any.
We want earlier hours-Here is a question which the student body and their parents must answer. All the students would enjoy an extra hour on hot afternoons in which they could play. If we are to have the extra hour for pleasure, we must come to school half an hour earlier each morning. Some of you will say, “I can’t get up that early.” Others will say, “No, it isn’t worth it.” These same people will sit in the last period classes and growl because the bell doesn’t ring or the weather is hot. Please give one another cooperation and let’s get out earlier.
Let’s pull for each other.

The Orange and Black—the school paper of the Zephyrhills High School, The Pasco Free Press, March 10, 1939
Flowers planted-Flowers have been planted at the west of the school building. There will be more planted in the near future. Every student should cooperate in trying to beautify our surroundings by taking care of these flowers.
The entire student body wishes to thank Mr. Don Storms for the seeds which he donated.
Holiday March 17th
All pupils are looking forward to the arrival of March 17th. The teachers will attend a teacher meeting in Tampa so while the teachers go to school the students will have an extra day in which to enjoy their own form of entertainment which they will find.
Sports-Last Friday the Zephyr Basketball team went over to take part in the District Tournament in Tarpon Springs. Playing a stubborn New Port Richey quintet and emerging victorious in a fast campaign one of the best games played, the credit going to the five inexperienced boys who won the game and yet this was only the second time they had played in a tournament. Although we lost to a much stronger Sponger team at night we had the satisfaction of defeating for the third time the New Port Richey team.
Junior Class News-One of the Juniors, Seth Plank, made an outstanding record for himself at the Central Florida Exposition at Orlando.  Among his exhibit placings were: First—a white Leghorn hen, cockerel and pullet; second—white Leghorn cockerel; third—medium white eggs. His exhibit was the most outstanding individual display and he also had the best hen in the show. In all, he was awarded thirty-six dollars in prize money. He received sixteen ribbons altogether, which are as follows: three firsts; two fourths, two fifths, one special ribbon and one sweepstake ribbon.
Home Makers Meeting-A meeting of the Home Makers Club was held Monday at 7:30 p.m. in the lunchroom. Final plans were made for the beach party which will be held Saturday, March 1, in Clearwater. All of the high school teachers have been asked to chaperone. The party will meet at 7:30 a.m. at the Taylor home on eighth street south.
Eighth Grade News-The Eighth grade enjoyed a party at Crystal Springs on Saturday night. Orange juice, sandwiches, cookies and fruit were served as refreshments. Those attending were: Miss Edith Plank, Miss Sarah Fewel, Alice Bryant, Leola Ellerbee, Kathryn Wright, Elizabeth Baggett, Dorothy Jean Phillips, Evelyn Spriggs, Dena Royal, Ruby Jane Snider, Irene Lefler and Lucille Mayor, Willie Bryant, Willie Smith, Otis Jones, Arthur Wright, Marcus Malphurs, Billie Tippins, Billy Mundy, and Elton Tucker
The eighth grade is now practicing the play, “Credits for Bill,” under the direction of Mrs. Spooner and Miss Fewell. Those taking part are: Wylene Massey, Ruby Jane Snider, Dena Royal, Juanita Geiger, Irene Lefler, Marcus Malphurs, Otis Jones, Arnold Hammond, Thurmond Clardy, Sanford Delk, Charle King and John Dozier. The eighth grade officers are:
President—Sanford Delk; Vice President—Arnold Hammond; Secretary—Ruby Jane Snider;
Treasurer—Willie Smith; and Reporter—Irene Lefler.

The Orange and Black—the school paper of the Zephyrhills High School, The Pasco Free Press, March 17, 1939
Reverend Joe Jones Spoke to Assembly Friday-Friday morning the student body was addressed by Rev. Jones. He read a verse of scripture which was his theme. Mr. Jones spoke on reflecting the good things in life. The students enjoyed his talk very much and it is hoped he will come again.
Home Makers’ Beach Party Huge Success-The beach party held at Clearwater last Saturday by Home Makers’ club was a huge success. The party left Zephyrhills around 8:30 a.m. and returned at 7:30 p.m.
Lunch which consisted of salad, sandwiches, deviled eggs, cookies and pickles, was served at 12:30 and a wiener roast was enjoyed by everyone at 6 p.m. just outside the city limits of Dunedin
Dancing, bicycle riding, swimming and hiking were enjoyed by everyone.
Those who attended were: Bernice Curtis, Joan Cook, Irene Hohenthaner, Helen Lefler, Gladys McGuire, Betty Royer, Phyllis Taylor, Mildred Warnock, Ayesha Tanzler, Dorothy Richards, Lillian Bieier, Alice Jenkins, Elsie Brown, Dolly Phillips, Genevieve Seaberg, Corabelle Storms, Eloise Green, Virginia Stapleton, Hope Taylor, Bryan Womack, Billy Royer, Alan Chenkin, Norris Mott, John Rasmussen, Don Storms, Billy Cloer, Shirley Clendenning, Robert Mott, and Fred Roberts.  Chaperones were: Miss Sarah Fewell, Mrs. Mounts, Mr. and Mrs. F.A. Taylor. The next meeting of the club will be Monday night at 7:30 in the lunchroom. This will be a special meeting so all members are asked to be present.
Sports-The Zephyrhills girls’ basketball team roundly trimmed Pasco in a one-sided affair on the Zephyrhills court last Monday evening, the final score being 30-8. Juanita Green, a Senior, took the scoring honor with a large number of baskets. This was the last game of the season for the girls this year. They have good reasons to be proud of their record, despite losing to Bushnell and Wildwood.
Juanita Green, Pearl Snider, Vera Branch, Mary Jo England and Hope Taylor should be congratulated for their services to the Zephyr team this year because this was their last high school game. They will certainly be missed next basket ball season.
Editorial in the Student Paper
Setting An Objective
A student should realize that his opportunity for vast knowledge is right here. He should seek a true education, friendship of his comrades and a high scholastic standing. Many people say that high school teachers are too lenient and in college they are very strict.
Don’t lay down on the job. Work for the higher things in life and cooperate with the teachers and students. Joining clubs in high school will help to strengthen you and widen the scope of your friendship.
Helping new students will let other students see that you have respect for other people and therefore will want to be friends with you.
Above all, though, strive for a high scholastic knowledge. Be friendly.
Fads and Fancies of Modern Dress
The jitterbugs seem to have created a whole new era in campers’ costumes. Maybe it started way back there with the “Music Goes Round.” At any rate, they really began to “shine” with current nursery rhymes.
The main idea seems to be for exaggeration with emphasis on color and clumsiness.
We started with the saddle-shoe craze last spring, and we liked them so well, we decided to keep right on wearing them through the winter. So when we wore one pair out, if we could go through those thick soles, we went out and bought another pair. A sort of compromise was effected in barges, which were essentially square-toed-crepe-soled and clumsier than an oversized muc-seow on the Sahara.
For color, we adopted plaids and stripes in as many startling colors as we could combine in one piece of apparel. The Big Apple called for action so the girls went “pleat crazy” and the boys adopted “high water” pants.
We liked the idea of forgetting to tuck in our shirt-tails. Maybe it was for convenience or comfort, or just the desire to be different.  By displaying more shirttail, we encouraged the old urge to write on any clean, blank space we saw.
There was something infinitely attractive about writing on other people’s shirts, so we made a style of displaying our penmanship for public approval.
We liked our jackets and we do show a growing preference for jackets, brighter and fluffier than before. Universal as these uniforms are, perhaps no place or time in the world can anyone dress with such variety and individuality as in the American high school.
There is something comforting about being able to wear our shirt tails out without anyone reproaching us for dressing in a hurry; or wearing barges without someone accusing us of trading clothes with our big brother; or wearing any color combination we choose without anyone suspecting us of color blindness. One has a perfect right to dress in comfort, and to satisfy each of your private preferences, and to really “shine” in jitterbug style.
Faddish as they maybe, they are the styles of today and youth has gone for them in a big way.
The Story of a Hollywood Extra
Irene Maynard, a girl from Hopetown, Maine, wins a talkie contest and a trip to Hollywood. As is the custom, she is given a farewell party at which all her friends are present.
After Irene arrives in Hollywood, she has many adventures in the ranks of extras. Her tryout fails; her theme song fails too, that is until Uncle Abner comes. It isn’t long until there is a reunion of Hopetown in Hollywood.
You have a chance to see this story in action with good music in “Hollywood Extra.” Several new voices are being introduced in the operetta. The operetta has colorful scenes and a modern story in which sparkling humor is furnished by Uncle Abner. Hollywood Extra will give you everything you expect in an operetta. Members of the cast are:
Uncle Abner, Postmaster of Hopetown, Maine—Bryon Womack
Irene, who wins a trip to Hollywood—Ayesha Tanzler
Bob Wilcox, who is subconsciously in love with Irene—Don Storms
Debby Wilcox, Bob’s sister—Betty Royer
Hannah Hilltop who has views about Hollywood—Phyllis Taylor
Corporal Benson of the Northwest Mounted—John Masmussen
Rita Lupa, a move star—Pearl Snider
Marty Williams, a chronic extra—Dave Boatwright
Harold Debunder, an exacting director—Alan Chenkin
Isaac Goldenrod, a movie magnate—Stanley Taylor
The glee club furnishes the chorus. The operetta is being presented by the Glee club of Zephyr High on March 24, at the high school auditorium.

The Orange and Black—the school paper of the Zephyrhills High School, The Pasco Free Press, March 24, 1939
The Seniors Take Intelligence Tests
The Seniors were given the annual intelligence tests for Seniors on Tuesday. The tests covered a general list of high school subjects. Their grades will be compared with those of other high schools. It is hoped they passed with a high rating.

The Orange and Black—the school paper of the Zephyrhills High School, The Pasco Free Press, February 24, 1939
The Glee Club Prepares an Operetta-The Glee Club of Zephyrhills high school has made plans to present an operetta in the near future. It will be the first operetta presented by a high school group here. “Hollywood Extra” is the operetta which has been chosen. Mrs. Spooner, the musical instructor in the school, is directing the operetta
Sports-The Zephyr boys played an exciting game with Brooksville. The local boys were defeated 23 to 16. Brooksville was leading one point at the end of the half. At the end of the third quarter the score was tied 15 to 15. In the last quarter the visitors pulled ahead. The margin was too large for the local boys to over come.
The girls defeated the Brooksville girls 23 to 17. The Brooksville girls were leading local girls at the half, but the girls finally got their eyes on the basket and tied them in the third quarter. In the last quarter the girls turned on the heat and defeated the visitors by a large margin.
The Zephyr boys played Tarpon Springs on their opponent’s court Monday night, February 20. The Zephyrs were defeated 29 to 13. It looked like it would be a close game at the half. Tarpon led 10 to 9, but they put in a new team which was too much for the locals. We have to admit the Zephyr boys had an off night and many shots were wasted.
The boys are looking forward to go to the Gulf Coast tournament which will be held at Bushnell February 24 and 25. The Zephyr boys play Wildwood Friday afternoon. The winner plays Brooksville.
Tuesday night the local boys defeated Wimauma 50 to 25. It looked like it would be a very close game. At the end of the first quarter Zephyr boys were leading by one point. The large court even tired the visitors and the Zephyr boys ran the score up. Most of the last quarter was played by the Zephyrhills B team. The Zephyrhills boys appreciate the team playing and good sportsmanship of the Wimama boys.

The Orange and Black—the school paper of the Zephyrhills High School, The Pasco Free Press, February 17, 1939
Senior Class Notables
•   Best looking—Mary Jo England and Jimmie Bass
•   Most popular—Mary Jo England and Ralph Green
•   Best dressed—Dorothy Richards and Jimmie Bass
•   Best personality—Mary Jo England and Buck Tippins
•   Most conceited—Pearl Snider and Buck Tippins
•   Best Figure—Pearl Snider and Phillip Stillman
•   Most Athletic—Juanita Green and Ralph Green
•   Prettiest Eyes—Helen McGuire, Altha Mott and Jimmie Bass
•   Prettiest Hair—Pearl Snider, Jimmie Bass and Ralph Green
•   Most Sophisticated—Altha Mott and Ralph Green
•   Wittiest—Juanita Green and Jimmie Bass
•   Noisiest—Juanita Green and Jimmie Bass
•   Most Studious—Pearl Snider and Buck Tippins
•   Best All Around—Mary Jo England and Jimmie Bass
•   Best Sports—Mary Jo England and Philip Guy
•   Sweetest Smile—Dorothy Richards and Jimmie Bass
•   Flirtiest—Pearl Snider and Phillip Stillman
•   Most Timid—Marjorie Haworth, Helen Lefler, Gladys McGuire and Philip Stillman
•   Friendliest—Mary Jo England and Jimmie Bass
•   Prettiest Teeth—Helen Baggett and Jimmie Bass

The Orange and Black—the school paper of the Zephyrhills High School, The Pasco Free Press, February 10, 1939
Your Society Column-A group of young people enjoyed a party at Sunset Beach last Friday night. They were entertained with a treasure hunt, proms and dancing. At a late hour refreshments of sandwiches, cookies and punch were served to the following guests: Misses Annette Arnot, Lillian Bleier, Nancy Covert, Bernice Curtis, Mary Jo England, Irene Hohenthaner, Mary Lefler, Helen McGuire, Evelyn Mundy, Adele Royal, Mary Stapleton, Virginia Stapleton, Ayesha Tanzler, Hope Taylor, Phyllis Taylor, Emma Rose Wingate, and Aurilla Driggers.
Messrs. Glenn Alexander, Dave Boatwright, Sam Brush, Robert Conner, Shirley Glendenning, Alan Chenkin, Newton Covert, Robert Emery, Billy March, Carl Parsons, Seth Plank, John Rassmussen, Norman Rassmussen, Billy Royer, Phillip Stillman, Don Storms, Bryan Womack and Mr. and Mrs. Harry McKillips.
Students’ Pictures Arrive-The pictures which were mentioned some time ago arrived Tuesday. You can imagine the crowd that rushed into Mr. Campbell’s office after learning about their arrival. Mr. Campbell announced in chapel that there was only to be six at a time in the office.
Lower Grades Receive Schick Tests This Week
Dr. Pease of the State Board of Health is administering to the First, Second, and Third grades, Schick tests to determine the immunity to diphtheria of the children in these grades.
Typhoid immunity inoculations and smallpox vaccinations are also to be given. These tests are given only to those pupils whose parents have requested it.
Dr. Pease will return every week to make these tests until they are completed
The Stroller-
It is reported that Joan Cook and Irene Hohenthaner spent the day in Tampa Monday. They were not by themselves—Is that right, girls?
Altha, which is it. Esdorn or Howard? It seems to be both of them.
Genevieve Seaberg and Joan Cook had a very enjoyable time after the ball game Friday night. Oh yes! Phillip Guy and Ralph Green did too. The moon was full—is that right?
Ashley, who are all the letters from? We see that are posted at Ocala.
Mr. Conner, you seem to be doing pretty well, for you had two Gasparilla day.
Pearl, who did you see in Plant City, Monday? We think that his name is Peck Williams.
Jimmie Bass now wears two rings. One is his class ring, but the other is___________________
We tried to find something about Buck Tippins, but could not. We guess he is perfect. (So he thinks).
Old news—Phyllis and Don, and Hope and John.
Some of the students in the Junior class are sorry that play practice is over. We wonder why? We can guess who they are!
Guess who Seth Plank took to the Junior class party at Pasadena? None other than Miss Helen McGuire!
Other couples at the party together were: Virginia and Norman R., Phil S. and Lillian Bleier, Hope and John, Don S. and Phyllis, Bryan Womack, Mary Jo E. and Bill and _____. Why was Newton C. walking around asking about Mary L. all evening?
Shall We Carry On?
To a young person the Twelfth grade brings to a close one of the important phases in his or her life.
When we walk out of graduation services with diplomas in our hands, it can be contrasted with the idea of a person walking out of a small room into a huge amphitheatre. One small part of our education has been brought to a close. Now we are to start all over in a higher sphere.
Financial circumstances will prevent many from going to college. This leaves a question in our mind. Should a person without a college education develop inferiority complex toward those who have one? My answer is no. It has been said many times that we are all created equal. If this is true we have just that much more to be grateful for. Therefore, if a boy or girl graduates from school and quietly, takes a back seat in the ranks of society, it is their own fault, because action is the father of progress.
As we read the story of Glenn V. Cunningham (1932 and 1936 Olympic medalist) we marvel at his ability to carry on despite the many trying circumstances that befell him. With one leg scarred from fire and somewhat shorter than the other, this Kansas school boy with all of his wonderful courage and will power, rose from the ranks of an invalid to be the fastest mile runner the world has ever known.
What a privilege we have in this democratic country to live up to the name of true citizens of America. We can do this only by believing as Americans should, feeling as Americans should, and acting as Americans should.
Then as a new generation fills the places of their forefathers, America will be a better place in which to live because we have not held back, because we have not looked back, because we have carried on.
My Ambition
To me, this year is one of great importance. Not only because I will finish high school but it is a turning point in my life. It is the time for choosing my life’s work. I have decided to become a nurse. I hope to enter training next fall. My reason for selecting the profession of nurse is that I am interested in medicine and caring for others. Since each person has an avocation, I also have chosen one. I want to become a social worker. Unlike other girls I am not interested in marriage. My ambition is to be a good nurse and social worker. –Helen McGuire
Sports-The Zephyr boys were defeated by a strong Tampa College five on the YMCA court in Tampa last Friday night. The final score being 24-29. This was one of the most thrilling games of the year. As the first quarter ended the score was tied, then as the second quarter got under way the Zephyrs pulled ahead but were unable to hold the lead and the half ended—Tampa College, 12—Zephyrs, 9. In the last half the Tigers were never out of danger because the Zephyrs were continually knocking at the opponents’ door.
They appreciate the fine sportsmanship and friendship shown to the team by the Tampa boys. The referees are also to be given a good word for their fine officiating.
Biology Students Have Debate
The Biology students had a debate, January 24. The question was: “Resolved: Did Primitive Man Have More Diseases Than Civilized Man?”
The negative side was led by Helen McGuire. The others on this negative side were: Jacques Walthall and Alden Pohner. Catherine Lewis led the affirmative side. Muriel Cherry and Stanley Taylor were also on the affirmative side. There were many outstanding points brought out in the debate. Both sides gave very good points, but they all agreed (for once) that those on the negative side were the best debaters.
Junior Class News-The Junior Class is very much elated over the success of their class play, “The Harvest Queen,” which was presented on Friday, February 3, 1939.
All who were present claim that this three-act comedy was the best they had seen for months, so the class is justly proud of its achievements.
They are now making plans for the Annual Junior-Senior Banquet which will be given sometime in the early Spring.

The Orange and Black—the school paper of the Zephyrhills High School, The Pasco Free Press, February 3, 1939
Staff
Editor-in-Chief—Helen McGuire
Managing Editor—Hope Taylor
Society Editor—Dorothy Richards
Sports Editor—Ralph Green
Literary Editor—James Bass
Feature Editor—Buck Tippins
Circulation Manager—Ashley Clardy
Assistant Circulation Manager—Phillip Guy
Class Reporters:
Pearl Snider—Grade 12
Lillian Bleier—Grade 11
Genevieve Seaberg—Grade 10
Muriele Cherry—Grade 9
Irene Lefler—Grade 8
Mary Hart—Grade 7
Your Society Column-Phyllis Taylor and Hope Taylor and John Rasmussen were in Tampa last Sunday evening.
A week ago on Wednesday night, the Junior class gave a surprise party for Mary Lefler, honoring her birthday. The party was held at Hohenthaner’s lunch room. Among the guests were: Annette Arnot, Virginia Stapleton, Irene Hohenthaner, Mr. and Mrs. Harry McKillips, Mary Lefler, Norman Rassmussen, Byron Womack, Phillip Stillman, Dave Boatwright, Seth Plank, Newton Covert, and Alan Chenkin
Rilda Mounts spent the weekend with her parents, Coach and Mrs. Mounts. She was accompanied by her roommate, Molly Register.
Among those attending the show, “Out West With The Hardy’s,” Sunday evening at the Capitol were: Marjorie Haworth, Evleyn and Jean Ann Mundy and Joan Cook
Who’s Who?
He is very tall but I will not tell you the color of his hair because you would easily guess who he is. He is a very good farmer (or at least he knows a lot about animals). He is very intelligent in school, very quiet and always polite. He is good-natured and willing to do anything for classmates. Aw—I hear that he is very easy to blush.
Last but not least of the Senior girls is a light-brown haired girl with blue eyes and a fair complexion. She does not live in Zephyr-town. She makes average grades, but she seems to like our school and is very quiet natured. She is well dressed and always neat
Words of Sympathy.
The Senior Class wishes to express their deepest sympathy for the bereaved family of W.M. Kruse. We hope that each cloud will bear a silver lining and that the deceased’s loved ones will emerge stronger to face the battles of life.
Can You Imagine?
Ralph G. with straight hair.
Ayesha T. a cheerleader
Byron W. six feet tall
Pearl S. not playing basketball
Jimmy Bass, not playing basketball
Irene H. not taking the lead
Norris M. dark complexioned
Geneveive S. not dancing
Hobson M. not being bashful
Phyllis T. short and fat
Ashley C. without a joke
Juanita G. with straight black hair
Alan C. forgetting about cars
Betty Royer not being conceited
Lee C. with a new walk
Mary L. not being an outstanding leader
John R. without hope (Hope T.)
Mary Jo E. without a personality?
Sports-The Zephyr boys put on a scoring spree to defeat a lowly Wildwood quintet. The Zephyrs took the lead in the first minute of play and were never headed by the Wildcats. The score: 35:13.
Coach Mounts was well pleased with the boys after shifting the lineup. Tippins and Bass showed amazing ability in handling the guard positions. Green was shifted to forward and Guy and Rasmussen remained in their same positions. The boys seemed to be more impressive with the lineup than in previous games.
The girls were completely outclassed by the experienced sextet from Wildwood by a 14-28 margin. The girls were handicapped by the absence of one of their main guards. The girls expect to upset the Wildwood team when they meet again.
The Zephyr boys invade the Tampa College Tigers on Friday night, February 3 on the Tampa YMCA court. They expect to upset the Tigers and avenge the defeat to them in their last meeting.
Give Em A Chance
“I don’t like that guy!” How often have you heard that remark and how often have you made it yourself? If you think back, in nine times out of ten your victim was a person whom you did not know very well. So what? So doesn’t it stand to reason that if you understand what makes a person do what he does, you’re more apt to stand up and make allowances for his faults?
The other fellow isn’t perfect—none of us are—but he probably has his good points if only we will take the trouble to find them. Give a guy a chance?
“The Harvest Queen Arrives February 3”
Here it comes at last! The “Harvest Queen” which will be presented by the Junior Class on Friday afternoon and Friday night.
A matinee will be given for school children. The admittance for the matinee will be ten cents. The admittance for the evening performance will be fifteen and twenty-five cents.
The three act play is to be presented under the direction of Mrs. Harry McKillips. Between the acts three musical numbers will be given by Mrs. Spooner, Ayesha Tanzler, Corabelle Storms and Alice Jenkins.
A dollar will be awarded the student who sells the most tickets. Everyone is anxious to know who will be the winner.
They expect all of you to attend their play, so don’t let them down. Here are those who appear in “The Harvest Queen:”
Preston Doty, the father—Don Storms, Jr.
Coral, the mother—Phyllis Taylor
Marion, the youngest daughter—Annette Arnot
Laura, the oldest daughter—Virginia Stapleton
Hubert, the eldest son—Alan Chenkin
Buck, the youngest son—Dave Boatwright
Myra, a retired school teacher—Mary Lefler
Jenny, a Norwegian cook—Irene Hohenthaner
Donald Young, a football player—John Rasmussen
William Roberts, from Wyoming—Newton Covert
Song Hits--
“What Have You Got That Gets Me”—Phyllis T. to Don S.
“Heart and Soul”—Ayesha T. to Shirley C.
“My Reverie”—Roy Turner
“Love come Back to Me”—Ashley C. to Ruth
“I’m a Happy Frame of Mind”—Byron W.
“Don’t Be Like That”—Pearl S. to _______
“Have you Forgotten So Soon”—Phil G. to Mary E.S.
“I’m Just a Gigolo”—Phillip S.
“Summer Souvenirs”—Cuddles B. to Virginia S.
“As you Desire Me”—Jerry P. to all the girls
“Success”--
(What Success means to one senior).
Success is the overcoming of the difficulties of life by working and trying hard to break the fetters that tend to bind human beings to a lower standard. It is happiness after completion of tasks. Success is by no means defined when we make a million dollars, but what kind of a character we close our life with. It depends upon what we think of ourselves, how we look in the eyes of others, and what we are in the sight of the Most High.
Educational Pictures Presented At School
The Chevrolet Company presented two very educational pictures at Zephyrhills School last Thursday morning. They dealt much with science, and were especially interesting to those taking science of any kind and those who have studied science.
The picture, “On Two Wheels,” explained the best rules for bicycle riding. The other showed how exact measurements are used producing cars.
All twelve grades saw these pictures and we are sure everyone enjoyed them immensely and hope to have some more like them soon.

The Orange and Black—the school paper of the Zephyrhills High School, The Pasco Free Press, January 27, 1939
Last Friday afternoon at 2:30 o’clock the school students assembled at the east entrance of the school to march in a parade to advance the infantile paralysis campaign.
The students marched with Irene Hohenthaner as drum major, led the parade. The parade went from the school to Fifth Avenue and down to the city hall, where it disbanded. The students were glad to learn that their behavior was good and as a result school was dismissed forty-five minutes earlier on Monday afternoon.
Zephyrhills cagers divided a double header with Brooksville. The Zephyr lassies emerged victorious over a hard-fighting group of girls of the Brooksville High School, Friday night. The final score being 32-17. The girls showed great improvement since the game with Bushnell and we hope they can continue as a winning team.
The boys seemed to have been handicapped by the court which was not regulation size in any way. The Brooksville boys piled up a nine point lead in the first part, but as the half ended the Zephyrs had cut the lead to four points. The Zephyrs came back strong in the third quarter to tie the score; then with the loss of Bass, a number one guard, the tide turned. The game was a rough and tumble affair throughout and especially the last quarter. The Zephyr boys lost 15-26. The boys expect to upset the Brooksville quintet when they meet on their home court the 17th of February. The boys and girls meet the Wildwood Wildcats on the home court Friday, January 27.
The president of the Athletic Association called a meeting January 18, 1939 and problems were discussed and voted on. The officers proposed the following things: the boys are getting new suits and in order to do so the girls are to help them so that they can have a coach to continue with their progress in athletics. The association agreed to pay Miss Parsons the sum she is supposed to receive, because the county is unable to do so. Everybody must work together to get these necessities.
Junior Class Play Progresses
Don’t forget the Junior class play, “Harvest Queen,” which will be presented February 3. They will present a matinee for the school children on Friday afternoon.
The school enrollment is now 373 in all twelve grades.
Editor in Chief: Helen McGuire
Managing Editor: Hope Taylor
Society Editor: Dorothy Richards
Sports Editor: Ralph Greer
Literary Editor: James Bass
Feature Editor: Buck Tippers
Circulation Manager: Ashley Clardy
Assistant Circulation Manager: Phillip Guy
Class Reporters:
Pearl Snider, Grade 12
Lillian Bieier, Grade 11
Genevieve Seaberg, Grade 10
Muriele Cherry, Grade 9
Irene Lefler, Grade 8
Mary Hart, Grade 7

School Basketball Team Raises Fund, The Zephyrhills News, November 17, 1939
$30.00 Goal Reached After A Short Period
The ZHS Boys’ Basketball Team of the local high school certainly appreciate the way in which the citizens of Zephyrhills responded to their attempt to raise the money necessary for their new uniforms. The uniforms have arrived and the team is well pleased with the selection. The following people contributed to the fund to be used as payment for the uniforms: Mr. and Mrs. J.W. Booth, Krusen Land & Timber Company, D.A. Storms, B. F. Parsons, Mr. and Mrs. John Hohenthaner, J.H. Mott, Wm. Hamilton, J.D. Thompson, R.E. Hart, C.S. McGavern, Dr. B.A. Thomas, F.B. Gill, Mrs. Marsh, Hotel Zephyr, Daniels Drugs, Lucius Sibley, Logan Peeples, Pure Oil Service Station, J.L. Geiger, Joe Riechart, Neukom’s Drug Store, Dr. D.B. Manley, Charlie Slater, Henry Edmondson, McClung’s 5 & 10 Store, R. H. Eldridge, T. Wangilder, August Visel, Home Bakery, Shoe Shop, Bailey, C.H. Curtis, Fred T. Bromley, C.H. Hart, Hart Hotel, Thomas K. Sparks, Mrs. W. Gall, Zephyrhills Publishing Company, V.K. Darby, Jake Collier, Julian Baggett, J. Kerr, Dr. Arnot, Powell Ryals, Emil Reutimann.

Local Boys Win 2nd 4-H Award, The Zephyrhills News, October 27, 1939
Max Bryant-Dave Boatwright Win Florida University Scholarship
Yesterday, the News received a letter from the Secretary of the County Agriculture Extension and Home Economics Service which is of vital interest to all citizens in Zephyrhills. It reads as follows;
The Zephyrhills News
Zephyrhills, Florida
Gentlemen:
We have just received a wire from Mr. McClellan stating that the Florida Dairy Demonstration Team won the scholarship and second place in the National Dairy Demonstration Contest in San Francisco.
Maxine Bryant and Dave Boatwright are both Zephyrhills boys and are two youths to be proud of.
The boys competed on Monday at the Golden Gate Exposition in San Francisco. The scholarships will mean a one hundred dollar scholarship at the University of Florida for each of the boys.
Maxie and David were the second place team in the State but due to the fact that the first place team was unable to go to the National Contest, they were sent to represent Florida.
Yours Very Truly,
Letha Hartley, Secretary

Alumni News of this era---
ZHS Alumni and Friends Reunion Honors Classes of 1930 and 1955, Zephyrhills News, July 3, 1980, by Jaynell LeHeup
Each year it gets bigger and better—that is the general consensus about the ZHS Alumni and Friends Reunion! The 1980 Reunion was Sunday at the Community Center, Zephyr Park. There wasn’t just a full house—there was such an overflowing crowd that it was voted to try to obtain the larger Municipal Auditorium for the 1981 Reunion.
Group singing was led by Jaynell LeHeup with piano accompaniment by Mrs. Margueritte Pattie with “God Bless America.” Four members of the Class of 1939 sang a special song from their school days. They were: Mrs. Juanita Green Stone, Class of 1939, of Mobile, Alabama, Mrs. Hope Taylor, Manners of Canada, Class of 1939, Mrs. Helen Lefler Mickey of Tampa, Class of 1939, and Mrs. Mary Jo England Higley of Toledo, Ohio, Class of 1939. This was enjoyed by all, especially by the Class of 1940 who were almost 100 percent in attendance and having their class reunion immediately following the reunion.

Seventeen of 20-member Class of 1940 Attend 40th Reunion Banquet for 27, Zephyrhills News, July 3, 1980
Seventeen members of the 20 member ZHS Class of 1940 enjoyed a reunion in conjunction with the ZHS Alumni Reunion……Mrs. Hope Taylor Manness, Class of 1939, also attended the dinner with her brother-in-law and sister. The class of 1940 has always enjoyed a close relationship which was summed up by one of the spouses…”it’s not a class; it’s a family.”

Happy Memories Abound As ZHS Alumni Enjoy Reunion, The Zephyrhills News, July 2, 1981
by Jaynell LeHeup
…Among first timers at this year’s ZHS reunion were Walter Vogel of Zephyrhills, Class of 1939….

HIGHLIGHTS OF 1938

Zephyrhills School To Open September 7 For Happy Children, Zephyrhills News, August 28, 1938
Preparations for the opening of the Zephyrhills school September 7 are going forward. The grass is being cut on the grounds, the buildings cleaned, and necessary repairs made on buildings and furniture.
The elementary teachers have been assigned to teach grades as follows:
Mrs. Helen Hamilton, first grade
Miss Lillian Kirkland, second grade
Miss Sarah Parsons, third grade
Miss Elizabeth Brown, fourth grade
Mrs. Pauline Higginson, fifth grade
Mrs. Nellie Price, sixth grade
Mrs. Julia Spooner, music
Owing to the resignation of Miss Hollis Warnock, librarian, there is one vacancy in the high school faculty, which will be filled by the school board as soon as possible. The other high school teachers are: Mr. F.M. Mounts, social studies and coach; Mr. Robert Conner, commercial subjects: Mrs. Bertha McKillips, English and Latin; Miss Edith Plank, Mathematics and Science; Miss Sarah Fewell, home economics; Mrs. Julia Spooner, music.
The principal, Mr. James T. Campbell is keeping office hours from 9 to 12 o’clock each week day at the school in order to confer with teachers, parents and pupils about the work of the coming school year.

Class Night Program, Zephyrhills News, May 20, 1938
Class Night Program
High School Auditorium
Thursday, May 19, 8:00 p.m.
Song by Class—“Thanks for the Memories”
Class History—Betty Phillips
Vocal Solo-Mary Stapleton
Class Will—Evelyn Bryant
Poem, “House of Success”—Adele Royal
Class Prophecy—Doris Laurence, Juanita Mundy
Piano Solo, “Memories”—Carroll Thomas
Giftorian Remarks—S.A. Clardy
Boys Quartet, “Alma Mater”—Billy Royer, Carl Parsons, Norman Rasmussen, Maxie Bryant
Reading, “My Kid Sister”—Rilda Mounts
Presentation of Key—Norman Rasmussen
Farewell—Lucy Mae Knox
Class Song, Farewell to our School
Commencement Program--
High School Auditorium
Friday, May 20th, 1938, 8:00 p.m.
Processional
Pomp and Circumstance—Edward Elgar
Invocation—Reverend J. P. Peden
Salutatory—Mary Stapleton
“Calm as the Night—Noble Cain
Girl’s Double-Trio
Commencement Address—Dr. W.T. Watson, President of Florida Bible Institute, Tampa, Florida
Valedictory—Rilda Mounts
Presentation of Diplomas—Mr. Fred Revels, County Superintendent of Public Instruction
Presentation of Awards—Mr. James T. Campbell
Stevens’ Cup to Most Worthwhile Graduate
Medal for Scholarship
Medal for Athletics
Medal for Activities
Benediction—Reverend Frank Hartman
Recessional

School Honors To Be Awarded To the Seniors, Zephyrhills News, May 13, 1938
Rilda Mounts will be the Valedictorian and Mary Elizabeth Stapleton the Salutatorian when the class of 1938 of the Zephyrhills high school graduates Friday, May 20, those honors going to the two seniors who have stood highest in their studies in their high school career. Out of a possible 10 scholastic honor points which would represent all “A” grades for four years, Rilda Mounts has 9.21 and Mary Stapleton 8.88 points, making them first and second honor students respectively. The three other honor students are: Carl Parsons, third 8.35 points; Adele Royal, fourth 8.21 points; and Evelyn Bryant, fifth with 8.00 points.
Believe It Or Not Record
Lucy Mae Knox has an attendance and punctuality record for which she deserves national recognition. In her entire school career, from the first grade on through the Twelfth, she has been neither absent nor tardy.
The recipients of the various senior awards will not be revealed until the presentation at the graduation ceremonies, except the scholarship medal which will go to the valedictorian, Gilda Mounts.
The highest award is the Stevens Cup, given to the “most worthwhile” senior. This cup is awarded by the vote of the faculty on the basis of character, service and leadership in the school and community, participating in worthwhile activities and achievements, scholarship not being a primary consideration. Accompanying this award this year will be a silver medal to be the permanent possession of the recipient, the cup being passed on from year-to-year.
Two other medals will be given. The Athletics Medal goes to the one who has shown the greatest ability, sportsmanship, and usefulness to the school in athletics during his or her school career. The activities medal is presented to the senior who has participated actively and usefully in extra-curricula and other school activities.

Baccalaureate Sermon, Graduates, Sunday, Zephyrhills News, May 13, 1938
The fourteen members of the graduating class of 1938 of the Zephyrhills High School will hear their baccalaureate sermon preached by Dr. H.E. Murkett at Methodist church Sunday morning, May 15 at 11. Other churches plan to omit their usual services and join in the baccalaureate service for the graduates.
The commencement exercises for the class will be held Friday, May 20 in the high school auditorium. Reverend Dr. W.T. Watson of Tampa will give the commencement address and County Superintendent Fred O. Revels will award the diplomas. The seniors also plan a class-night program, Thursday, May 19. Everyone is cordially invited to attend all the commencement activities.
Members of the senior class who will graduate are: Maxie Bryant, Carl Parsons, Norman Rassmussen, William Royer, Evelyn Bryant, S.A. Clardy, Lucy Mae Knox, Doris Laurence, Rilda Mounts, Juanita Mundy, Betty Phillips, Adele Royal, Mary Elizabeth Stapleton, and Carroll Thomas.
Baccalaureate Sermon, Methodist Church
Prelude—School orchestra
Processional, “Priests March” by Mendelssohn
Invocation, Rev. Frank E. Hartman
Scripture—Rev. Frank E. Hartman
Girls Glee Club, “The Green Cathedral” Carl Hohn
Sermon, “The Girded Mind,”—Dr. H.E. Murkett
Hymn, Page 278—Lead On O’King Eternal, Congregation
Benediction—Rev. Peden
Recessional, “Priest’s March” by Mendelssohn

Teachers Are Chosen for Next School Year, The Pasco County Free Press, May 6, 1938
The school trustees and county school board have retained the following teachers for Zephyrhills Elementary School: Mrs. Helen Hamilton, Miss Lillian Kirkland, Miss Sarah Parsons, Mrs. Nellie H. Price, Mrs. Pauline Higginson, and Miss Elizabeth Brown.
High School Teachers retained are: Principal James T. Campbell, Professor F.M. Mounts, Mr. Robert Conner, Mrs. Bertha McKillips and Miss Edith Plank.
Miss Aurilla Driggers, Miss Edna Moon and Miss Mary Dolfin have resigned.
Miss Hazel Hardee was not retained in the Elementary School as the authorities consider the teachers chosen will be able to handle the classes.
Teachers have been paid in full for last year. There will be a pay day this week, and they will receive one-half of the seventh month’s salary, and first of next month there is expected to be another apportionment from state funds.
Three teachers will be chosen later, one each in music, home economics and librarian.

Zephyrhills Hi Alumni 1936-1937 Annual Supper, Zephyrhills News, April 15, 1938
The 1936-1937 classes of Zephyrhills High school will give the first of their annual get-togethers in the form of a supper to be given at G.A.R. Hall, 6:30 Friday night, April 22.
The young folks want to live over and talk over the days they passed on the hill in the north side of the city. It is fine thing for them to have these get-togethers and keep in touch with each other after school days have passed.
James Mott and other members of the alumni have the affair in charge and it is hoped all graduates of the two years will join in to make this gathering successful.

School to present, Operetta, “The Indian Princess,” The Pasco Free Press, March 25, 1938
Zephyrhills grammar school will present the operetta, “the Indian Princess,” Friday night, April 1, our school officials having placed Miss Edna Moon, music director of schools here in charge, and all who know of Miss Moon’s previous successes with local students will come to see what we are sure will be another musical triumph.
The operetta features early colonial life in Virginia, the scenes being based on the historic story of Pocahontas saving the life of John Smith. Bobby Kersey will take the part of John Smith and Mildred Jones that of “Pocahontas.”
There are to be a number of dances and these numbers each have from 8 to 32 dancers. There will be a Sailor dance, Sunflower dance, Corn Dance, Canoe Dance, and Indian Braves dance.
There will be a number of solos and a great deal of group singing and we know how capable Miss Moon is in bringing out the singing ability of these young folks.
April 1, 8:00 p.m. Zephyrhills School Auditorium—Price—fifteen cents for all. Remember the date and make plans to be there. It will be a success.

Zephyrhills News, Thursday, March 14, 1968
Here is a fifth grade class—Fifth Grade Class photo about 1931 and standing in front of the old Zephyrhills school building, the front entrance of which above is today, the back of the school. Seated on the ground, left to right are: Billy Thomas, Jessie Holt, Bud Massey, unidentified boy. Jimmy Bryant, Vernon Hill, unidentified boy, Woodrow Kersey, Phillip McCall, and an unidentified boy. In back, left to right are: two unidentified girls, Margaret Slater, Mary Elizabeth Stapleton and twin sister, Minnie Slater, two unidentified girls. Dorothy Newman, an unidentified girl, Elma Williford, Luida Wilson, the teacher, a Mrs. Corbin, Alice Bryant and an unidentified girl—photo courtesy of Mrs. Earl Boyette.

HIGHLIGHTS OF 1937

Large Class Receive Diplomas, The Zephyrhills News, June 11, 1937
A fine commencement program enjoyed by audience at the auditorium.
Every one in attendance at the 25th Commencement exercises of the Zephyrhills High School, last Friday night agreed that it was a simply beautiful occasion, absent from frills and furbelows, but impressive in its simpleness and genuine good spirit.
The stage had been prettily but not lavishly decorated in the class colors of white and red and foliage, with the class motto displayed across the front of the stage, “Out of Life of School into the School of Life.”
The auditorium was filled to its capacity when the curtain raised at 8 o’clock, all noise hushed as the orchestra number sounded out. The 20 class members, forming the largest class in the 25 years of the school, gowned in academic caps and gowns of white and grey, a new procedure here, made a fine appearance and impression, as they slowly stepped down the aisle into their place on the stage.
Without announcement the following program was finely and delightfully presented:
Invocation—Reverend Frank E. Hartman
Salutatorian—Jacqueline Sjoblom
Vocal Solo—Mrs. Marion Walthall
Commencement Address—Dr. Barnett of Lakeland
Valedictory—Estell Delk
Presentation of Diplomas—Superintendent Fred O’ Revels
Presentation of Awards—Professor J.T. Campbell
Invocation—Reverend H.E. Murkett
The addresses by the honor girls, Miss Delk and Miss Sjoblom were most clever in text and they “were different” in presentation as the class was unique to say the least.
The Professor Barnett of Southern College at Lakeland can go the honor of making one of the very finest addresses ever given in Zephyrhills, but sorry that crying babies and the inability to have his voice carry out to the entire audience, deprived many of his fine message. Dr. Barnett is a man of wide travel and study and observation, and his presentation of his topic, “Spending Money” was novel. He set forth many of the qualifications that he seemed necessary to make a young person’s life a success. The talk was especially helpful and encouraging to the student class to whom he was primarily speaking.


Commencement Week Opened Last Sunday, Zephyrhills News, Friday, June 4, 1937
Large Audience Heard Marterly Discourse by Reverend Paden, Class in Caps and Gowns.
Sunday morning at the Baptist Church was devoted to a union service of all the churches for the annual High School Baccalaureate sermon, and the auditorium and gallery were filled with an interested audience.
The church had been perttely decorated with seasonable flowers, and a choir from the various churches furnished some special musical selections, under the direction of Miss Clarinell O’Steen. The High School Orchestra also contributed several selections to the musical program.
At the sounding of the march, the members of the graduating class, wearing caps and gowns marched into the reserved section and they made a most beautiful and impressive group of young people as they entered and left the church.
Reverend James Peden, the pastor, took as his subject of the day, “Proving the Best.” It was an unusual discourse in its text and application. His text was “And Jesus arose, took up a towel, and girded it around him.”
He told the story of the prevailing custom in Palestine at the period of the ministry of the Master, of how a servant washed and dried the feet of a guest or member of the household before they entered the home, or how on some occasions the host to show that he was the servant of the guest, performed the menial duty.  Dr. Peden stated that the towel was the emblem of service and when Christ started to wash the feet of the objecting Peter, he was placing himself in the position of the servant, which later was an important part of his program.  

One Hundred to Graduate From the Hi Schools in Pasco, Zephyrhills News, Friday, June 4, 1937
The Senior and Junior High Schools of Pasco County this month, are graduating around 100 young people from their ranks and the Board of Public Instruction are furnishing the diplomas for them. The Zephyrhills school will graduate 20, and Gulf High of New Pt. Richey 18, on this Friday nite, and Dade City will graduate 35 on next Monday night, while on Thursday night of this week, the Junior High at Laccoochee granted diplomas to a class of 26 pupils.
Mr. Revels, the county schools, states that all the upper schools have done excellent work the past year, and have made much progress in improving the course of study. He expects at least two of the schools not now on the state accredited list to be there for next year, namely Zephyrhills and Drexel.

25th Annual Graduation To Be Friday, June 3rd, Zephyrhills News, Friday, May 28, 1937
The twenty-fifth commencement of the Zephyrhills High School will begin next Sunday with a union service of all churches, the baccalaureate sermon to be preached by Reverend James P. Peden of the Baptist Church at 11 a.m. with special music. The senior class of twenty will be the largest in the history of the school, will receive their diplomas the following Friday at the commencement program in the school auditorium at 8 p.m. A class night program will be held Thursday night, June 3.
A prominent speaker is being engaged for the commencements program. In addition to the award of the diplomas, there will be medals awarded to the seniors who have been most outstanding in Scholarship, Activities and Athletics, and the Stevens Cup will be given to the senior as “most worthwhile.” It is expected that county Superintendent, Fred O. Revels will award the diplomas
Estelle Delk will have the honor of being First Honor Student and Valedictorian. Her scholastic record gives her a standing of 8.32 honor points out of a possible 10. Second Honor student and Salutatorian is Jacqueline Sjoblom with an honor point average of 7.04. The recipients of the medals and cup mentioned above will not be revealed until the prizes are given out the night of commencement.
Representing the first graduation class of the school in 1912 at the commencement, there will be Mr. Don A. Storms, who is still connected with the school as a member of the county board of public instruction from Zephyrhills.

Record Class to Graduate At Local Hi School, Zephyrhills News, Friday, May 28, 1937
Twenty young people will receive their diplomas of accredit.
The Zephyrhills High School will graduate the largest senior class in its history on June 4 when nearly 20 boys and girls will receive their diplomas. Those who are scheduled for graduation provided they pass the final examinations next week are: Raymond Cook, Esther Chilson, Estelle Delk, Mildred Delk, Robert Emery, Florence Frisbee, Ouida Griffin, Mildred Lynch, Margaret Slater, James Mott, Robert Mott, Willette Phillips, Jacqueline Sjoblom, Minnie Slater, Marguerite Snider, Flora Duncan Stark, Norma Stone, Charlotte Taylor and Henry Wheeler.  Margaret Branch is also in the class and will be eligible just as soon as she completes make-up work which resulted from a semester of illness.
A prominent speaker will be engaged to give the commencement address on the evening of June 4th, when the class will receive their diplomas. A class night program will be held the evening of June 3, while the baccalaureate sermon will be delivered at the Baptist Church by the Rev. Peden, Sunday morning, May 30. Most of the churches of Zephyrhills are expected to join in the service.
All pupils are beginning to prepare for the final examinations which will be held on Tuesday and Wednesday of next week, according to a bulletin issued this week by the principal, Mr. Campbell. Classes will continues as usual through Monday. Pupils will finish with their examinations on Wednesday, and will be excused from school Thursday while the teachers grade the papers and work on the final reports. School will convene for the last time for the year at 10 o’clock Friday morning at which time the pupils will receive their report cards and be dismissed after a brief session.

High School Students Hear Safety Talk, Zephyrhills News, Friday, May 28, 1937
Mrs. March Gives Interesting Address of Importance on Safety Observance.
At the request of the city officials, Mrs. Wilma J. March, gave an address on “Safety” and “Better Homes,” Tuesday morning, at the local high school prior to the closing of the school term. Stressing the importance and value of individual cooperating in both instances, the speaker gave the dismal facts that last year as many Americans died through accidents as were killed during the World War, the sum of each being close to 36,000. Safety from disease and the prey of avoidable circumstances resulting in fatalities was stressed too. Statistics show that nearly 10,000 more Americans died of disease, than from all other forms of death during the World War.
People must become safety-minded through education, and not depend upon laws to force them to care for their own protection and that of others. The automobile and industrial companies and the railroads spend much time and effort and money to warn and protect the public from dangers of negligence.
The Atlantic Coast Line in this instance sponsored the talk on Safety for the pupils of the city. Each day we read of promising young lives being struck down in the flower of their youth by sheer disregard of safety rules. The success of youth today greatly depends upon the education they receive in safe-guarding their health and protecting themselves from being a prey to circumstances causing injury or death. This is an individual responsibility, one in which people must become safety-minded or suffer the cruel and bitter consequences.
The safety-minded person is the one who helps to make Better homes also. This city has wound up its “Better Homes Campaign” and in the very near future sends its reports to Purdue University, which sponsors the national project. What we have attained this year will be a foundation upon which to lay our work for the future.
Zephyrhills has entered into a more extensive and cooperative program in the National Better Homes Campaign, this year than any other town in the entire county. For the first attempt that, at least, was a record worth striving for. What the future holds depends upon the will of our individual citizens.

Board Selects Balance of Faculty Staff, Zephyrhills News, Friday, May 14, 1937
Miss Sarah Parsons to Join the Elementary Teaching Group.
The Zephyrhills school directors along with the school principal and Mr. Storms, county director, held a meeting the past week to make choice of faculty members for the local school for the year, 1937-38.
The action of the board will mean that the following grade teachers will be recommended to the County Board for employment during that period at salaries to be yet determined: Mrs. Helen Hamilton, Miss Lillian Kirkland, Mrs. Nellie Price, Mrs. Paulline Higginson, Mrs. Hazel D. Hardee, Mrs. Elizabeth Brown, Miss Sarah Parsons, the new member of this group, is a local girl who will receive her degree at Woman’s College at Tallahassee, this coming June.
The faculty members recommended for the High School Division are: F. M. Mounts, Miss Edith Plank, Mrs. Bertha McKillips, Miss Orilla Driggers. Miss Claire O’Steen, Musician and Girl’s Coach; Miss Sara Krentzman, the efficient librarian and dramatic coach, both of whom have done excellent work in their departments were not applicants for re-election, as they are expecting to take up school work elsewhere next fall. Mr. Nelson, the efficient commercial department instructor, will also have directional work in another city.
The local board had previously recommended the appointment of Professor James T. Campbell, as principal for the coming year.

Professor Campbell To Be Retained As School Principal, Zephyrhills News, Friday, April 30, 1937
Professor Theodore Campbell, who is soon to close his first year as principal of Zephyrhills High and Elementary Schools, has been unanimously chosen to fill that position again this coming year, such action having been taken at the meeting of the district trustees, the past week. The board composed of Mrs. J. F. Hammett, William M. Hamilton and F. B. Ames, will now make this recommendation to the County Board of Public Instruction.
Mr. Campbell, a home town boy, and a former faculty member of the school, has made a very good and competent showing the past year as principal and his retention was deemed to the best interests of the school for another year, as well as a reward for faithful services rendered. Patrons of the school will gladly concur in the action of the trustees.
The trustees, in connection with the principal, are now considering the selections of teachers for the high and grade schools for next year, but these recommendations will not be ready until later. The faculty and staff as composed the past year as a whole has been very satisfactory to the trustees and patrons, and it is not likely there will be many changes, unless requested by the instructors by their own volition.
The local trustee board has elected W. M. Hamilton as it’s’ chairman, and F. B. Ames as secretary for the coming term. The board during the summer vacation will act upon and carry out a number of plans for the improvement of the schools.

Junior Class Gives Amusing Farce, Zephyrhills News, Friday, April 23, 1937
The Junior Class of the Zephyrhills High School gave a very clever comedy farce play entitled, Safety First, at the auditorium, last Friday night, before a fair sized audience. The cast had been very well coached in the rather difficult parts, but they all covered themselves with much historic glory.
It was one of those mixed up situation plays, where one began to lie to the other, and the preposterousness of the limit they went to cover up the first lie and make things finally square was the fun of the play. The audience apparently liked the situations, for giggles were heard all over the hall. For lack of space, we refrain from making personal comment as to the individual members of the cast, beyond the fact that they all did well. Miss Plank was the director of the play.

Zephyrhills Teams Win Over Brooksville in Two Games, Zephyrhills News, January 29, 1937
Well, our High School basket ball teams, accompanied by their coaches, Mr. Mounts and Miss O’Steen, journeyed over to Brooksville last Saturday night, to stack up against the Brooksville teams. They found an outdoor court that was in anything but good playing condition and greatly handicapped them in their speed and playing in the games that followed.
Professor Mount’s protégées came out the victors in a loosely and roughly played contest with the Brooksville five, the final score being 21-20. It was a nip and tuck game all the way thru and our lads were fortunate to come out on top.
Miss O’Steen’s girls found a good foe in the Hernando girl aggregation, but they pounded away and won out by a score of 18-16.
Our junior boys stacked up against the Brooksville juniors, and in this contest, the Brooksville team won by a small score. Our senior teams will play the Bushnell teams there on Saturday night.

Drinking Fountain Completed, The Orange And Black—The School Paper of Zephyrhills High School, January 27, 1939
The drinking fountain, which was a gift from the Senior class of 1937, has been completed. It is certain that all of the students are grateful for this gift which took care of one of the school’s needs. It is an added attraction for the building also.

Basket Ball Schedule for Local Hi School, Zephyrhills News, January 15, 1937
Superintendent J.D. Campbell and Coach F.M. Mounts of the Zephyrhills High School, have completed the schedule for basket ball games for the boys and girls teams of the local schools, some having been approved by the Gulf Coast Conference, last Saturday.
The schedule as at present arranged is as follows:
January 15, Friday, Gulf High or New Port Richey at Zephyrhills
January 19, Tuesday, St. Leo boys only here
January 22, open date
January 23, Saturday, Brooksville here.
February 5, Friday, Gulf at New Port Richey
February 12, Friday, Gulf Coast Tournament at Wildwood
February 16, Tuesday, St. Leo, boys only, there
February 19, Friday, Dade City there
February 26, Friday, Dade City here
March 5, Tournament at Zephyrhills, in which New Port Richey, Tarpon Springs, Brooksville and Zephyrhills teams will be the participants. Losers and winner to play each other.
March 12, Friday, Tarpon Springs there, boys only
March 19, Friday, Tarpon Springs, here, boys only.
Local schoolmen hope to have the new basket ball court ready for the local tournament date.

Rhuel Platt to be Chairman of School Board, Zephyrhills News, January 8, 1937
Closes Up Business of School Year and New Members Take over Their Terms.
The new members of the county board met again on Tuesday morning, for the purpose of reorganization with Mr. Rhuel Platt, of Dade City, entering upon his own elected term, after serving three months on Mrs. Margery Otto’s term, Mr. Richard Stephenson who succeeded.  Mr. Thomas Hill, also took his seat. The board also organized by electing Mr. Rhuel Platt, as chairman of the board; and Superintendent Fred O’Revels, as secretary and Dr. R.L. Nall as the school board clerk.
The law firm of Dayton, Dayton and Dayton were retained as legal advisors of the board. Each board member made short talks.
Arrangements were made to have the Wesley Chapel school yard fenced so as to make it pig and cattle proof. This on petition of the patrons of the school.
The Board has allowed Mr. and Mrs. Stanley Cochrane, the sum of $225.00 for the canceling of a certain real estate deal which the board desires abrogated, as the land included count not be secured for the colored school house.
The board recently borrowed from the Ocala National Bank, of Ocala the sum of $35,000, and already the sum of $10,000 has been repaid. The balance will be repaid as funds come in from taxes. This amount was secured in order to pay instruction and transportation and janitor salaries up in full to December 23rd.
Mr. Hill filed with the board a schedule of children hauled on the Hudson-Aripeka route, and showed conclusively that the board was justified in buying the new Ford truck for the route.

Alumni news of era
The Fifth Grade 38 Years Ago, Zephyrhills News, February 29, 1968
The teacher of this charming group of 5th graders was Miss Bertha Messick, left now, Mrs. Harry McKillips, a supervisor at Pasco High School; the principal of the Zephyrhills school was D.C. Cripe, right, now retired as a Pasco County educator and residing north of Zephyrhills on Ft. King Road. Pupils, many of whom are now area businessmen and housewives, are left to right in the front row: Bruce Dowell, Pearl Snider, Loraine Chancey, Altha Mott, Walter Vogel, Charles Thomas, Phillip Guy and Robert Daniels; second row: Jimmy Bass, Charlie Sante, unknown boy, Alene and Florence Ryals, unknown boy, Chicken Overstreet, William McDaniels; third row: Warren Williams, Roy Holt, unknown girl, Helen Lefler, Lucille Daughtery, Helen McGuire, Dorothy Newman, and Helen Baggett. –Photo courtesy of Mrs. Earl (Josie Lee Newman) Boyette.

ZHS Principal Doc Cripe with his wife and daughter at left

….source: Zephyrhills News, March 7, 1985

HIGHLIGHTS OF 1936

HIGHLIGHTS OF 1935

Baccalaureate Sermon By Reverend Hamlett in Baptist Church, Zephyrhills News, May 31, 1935
Sunday Morning, May 19 services were held at the Baptist Church for the graduating class of our local high school. By the eleven o’clock hour the church was well filled with relatives and friends of the senior class. After the Doxology, which was sung by the entire congregation, Miss Margie Reutimann as junior usher, led the class and its sponsors to the reserved seats while Miss Grace Mott played a stately march. “Marching To Zion,” and “From Every Stormy Wind” were the two hymns in which all joined.
The pastor, Dr. W.A. Hamlett, made a few remarks about the occasion being by and for the whole community and invited the two visiting pastors, the Reverend H.E. Murkett and Dr. R.A. Nichols, to come to the platform and participate in the further exercises of the morning. Frank Rys sang, “Have Thine Own Way Lord,” most impressively and Dr. Nichols led the morning prayer. Dr. Hamlett then read the scripture and addressed the congregation. First he explained the meaning of the term baccalaureate and how it originated in crowning the Youths of Greece and Rome with bay leaves when they took their Bachelor of Arts Degree. The term is more properly limited to that occasion even today. Young people are still perfecting themselves in the arts, the speaker pointed out and gave the definition of art as “the scientific application of a principle to attain a given end.” After emphasizing the necessity for making an art of life, Dr. Hamlett closed with his text, Phil 2:5: “Let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus had an adaptable and fearless mind and that is the kind of mind we need today.
Miss Grace Mott’s Sunday School Class sang a special closing song, “I Would Be True,” after which the benediction was pronounced by the Reverend Murkett.
The church was decorated with a profusion of cape jasmines, ferns and palms.

Commencement Exercises at G.A.R. Hall, Zephyrhills News, Friday, May 17, 1935
Commencement exercises for the Zephyrhills High School will be held Thursday evening, May 23, at the G.A.R. Hall at 8 o’clock. The program for the Commencement is as follows:
Invocation, Dr. H.E. Murkett
Song, Senior Class
Class History, Ernest Linkey
Salutatory, Frederick C. Wheeler, Salutatorian
Piano solo, Velma Bosley
Class Prophesy, Rebeca Magness
Class Will, Donald Plank
Address, Dr. R.A. Nichols
Valedictory, Sarah E. Parsons, Valedictorian
Presentation of Diplomas, Mr. D.A. Storms
Announcement of prize winners
Benedictory, Dr. H.E. Murkett
The graduates are: Mary Emery, Eva West, Frances Vogel, Rebecca Magness, Sarah Parsons, Donald Plank, Emil Reutimann, Richard Gaskin, Frederick Wheeler, Leslie Chilson, Ernest Linkey, and Harmon Pollock.
….Same article as above printed May 31, 1935 with these additions:
Miss Sarah Parsons and Frederick Wheeler, who held the highest scholastic average were valedictorian and salutatorian respectively. The cup awarded annually by the Tourist Club to the senior considered by the faculty most worthy in scholarship and citizenship for the four years of high school was presented to Miss Sarah Parsons.
Certificates of perfect attendance for the year also were given to Miss Lucy Mae Knox and Carl Parsons.

The May 24, 1935, Spotlight, the senior end-of-year issue, is available as a PDF here.

Prior to the Zephilsco, ZHS produced a mimeographed Annual, the Spotlight. Staff (left) were: Vera Cook, Mary Emery, Lina Felts, Rebecca Magness, Grace Mott, Sarah Parsons, Donald Plank, Emil Reutimann, Marguerite Reutimann, Eva West, S.A. Clardy, Ernest Linkey, Laura Rogers, M. Slater, and Norma Stone.

Spotlight article below admonishes students to respect school colors (not orange & black):

Purple and Gold are ZHS School Colors by Gracie Mott

Did you ever take time to look in the dictionary and really find out what our ZHS colors mean? They are “Royal Colors.” Purple is the blend of blue and red—the color of Robes of State! As a noun it means a robe of color; hence: rank of royalty. There is also Gold—a precious metallic element of bright yellow color and when pure, very heavy, precious and of pure quality. With colors like that it is no wonder that we are proud of ZHS?

Second grade 1934-35 with teacher, Lillian Kirkland. Picture was taken in front of east entrance to school which was unoccupied becaue of fire in 1933. Children attended school in various buildings around town until the building was renovated.

Row 1: Leonard Lee, Kathryn Douglas, Isabelle Baggett, Lorraine McGinty, Henry Dozier, Arthur Oliver, Barbara Hammett, Roy Harrison.

Row 2: Louise Douglas, Charlie Dozier, Laray Mott, Normancell Clardy, David Tyre, Lottie Mae Graham, Gladys Register, Edward Douglas.

Row 3: Carl Lippincott, Omabelle Arnold, Mary Lois McDowell, Jack Daniels, June Epley, Clarence Ellerbe, Billy Eady.

Row 4: Otis Ryals, Mary Eloise Pollock, Dick Green, Otis Arnold, Evelyn Emery, and Munroe Hill.