Ryan Ruckel selected for PTK honor Dr. Ryan Ruckel has been selected to Kappa and the Mississippi /Louisiana ‘shoot for the moon,’ so mediocrity is serve as the Regional Coordinator for Phi Region.” never an option. PTK definitely made a Theta Kappa’s Mississippi/Louisiana PRCC President William Lewis said Dr. great decision for our region.” Region. Ruckel is deserving of this honor. Ruckel holds a bachelor’s degree from Ruckel is chair of the Department of “Dr. Ruckel’s assignment as the region- Trinity University in San Antonio, Texas; Humanities and Social al coordinator for Phi Theta two master’s degrees from the University Sciences and a history instruc- Kappa for the of Southern Mississippi and a Ph.D. in tor at the Forrest County Mississippi/Louisiana region is American history from Louisiana State Center. He has served as an ad- symbolic of his dedication to University. visor for the 5 Star Beta Tau the success of every student “I’m honored to have the opportunity to Gamma PTK chapter since that he comes into contact continue this great PRCC tradition and to 2009, along with his wife, Dr. with,” he said. serve the greatest team of educators in the Terri Ruckel, and Doug “His efforts to ensure that greatest two-year college system in the AEOP delivers donations; Donohue. every student has an opportuni- world,” said Dr. Ruckel. “As regional coordinator, Dr. ty to succeed, not only in the “Pearl River Community College has collection jars are out Ruckel will work closely with classroom, but in life beyond actively served our region for many years, Associate Director of Regional higher education has become a including during the time Norma Jean The PRCC Association of Educational Office Personnel thanks and Chapter Development for Dr. Ruckel trademark for his work.” Hamill served as regional coordinator. everyone who donated items for the Pearl River County Nursing Division II Courtney Lange and Added Dr. Jana Causey, assis- “We are deeply appreciative of the sup- Home residents for Christmas. Division II Key Services Consultant tant vice president for Forrest County op- port from Dr. Lewis, Dr. Burt, and Dr. Arts and craft supplies were delivered in November so that res- Melissa Price to ensure a smooth transi- erations, “Dr. Ruckel is a great mentor and Causey, who recognize the opportunities idents could make holiday decorations. Gifts were delivered on tion and continued success for the region,” leader. His first priority is always students for leadership, scholarship, fellowship, Dec. 15. said Rod Risely, executive director of Phi and he has a special way of understanding and service that membership in Phi Theta Hannah Lumpkin, a nurse at the home, sent the following note: Theta Kappa International. student strengths and talents. Kappa provides.” “Everything from Christmas was great. There was plenty of “We are grateful for the strong commit- “He then pushes them to reach goals be- Dr. Ruckel received PTK’s Distinguished everything. We were able to give all of the residents a lot of the ment Dr. Ruckel has shown to Phi Theta yond their dreams. His mentality is to Advisor Award in April 2014. items. So they had a great Christmas. We are still using some of the items that were donated. It was appreciated in a huge way. It is always nice when you can make the residents’ Christmas mem- 2015 Miss PRCC Pageant orable. Some never get visitors and your great services allowed them to have a great present. Thank you all once again.” n AEOP members will place pink coin collection jars around the three PRCC campuses during February for donations to the PRCC Employee Cancer Fund. “Although the month of February is considered Heart Health Awareness Month, our co-workers who have been diagnosed with cancer do not get a break from their illness during February,” said AEOP president Cheryl May. Showchoir contest returns to PRCC this weekend PRCC will host the Mississippi Showchoir Contest Friday and Saturday, Feb. 6 and 7, in the Brownstone Center for the Arts. Participating middle schools include Baxterville, West Jones, Pearl River Central, Purvis, Oak Grove, Petal and South Jones. They will compete from 4:30 to 8:30 p.m. Friday with awards presented at 9:30 p.m. PRCC’s The Voices will perform at 7:15 p.m. and RiverRoad showchoir will present an exhibition per- formance at 9 p.m. High school competition begins at 8:30 a.m. Saturday and con- tinues until 4:15 p.m. Participating schools are Columbia Academy, Crestview, Fla.; Biloxi, Picayune, West Jones, South Jones, Sumrall, Pearl River Central, Oak Grove and Petal. West Marion and Crestview will also compete in the women’s division. RiverRoad will perform at 5:15 p.m. before preliminary awards are announced. Final competition will be from 7 to 9:30 p.m. followed by a per- formance by The Voices. Awards will be presented at 9:45 p.m. Above, Kaitlin Cooper of Picayune is Miss PRCC Wildcat 2015 following com- Five PRCC students earn petition Jan. 29, at the Brownstone Center. Other All-State band honors winners are, from left, Five PRCC band students will participate this weekend in the Reese Johnson of Carriere, Mississippi Community College All-State Band. second alternate; Abby The band will present a concert at 1:30 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 7, Lowry of Hattiesburg, fourth in Bennett Auditorium at the University of Southern alternate; Kathryn Minor of Mississippi. The students will spend two days rehearsing with Hattiesburg, physical fitness top musicians from the other 14 community colleges. award; Amber Pineda of Selected by audition for the band were Ali Catoire of Carriere, Hattiesburg, first alternate flute; Sarah Nelson of Poplarville, clarinet; Chris Fletcher of and presence and compo- Columbia, trumpet; Michael Thrash of Poplarville and Devin sure winner; Belle Failla of Boothe of Lucedale, tuba. Picayune, third alternate and Miss Congeniality. Right, Chynna Coghlan, PRCC Singers will perform Miss PRCC Wildcat 2014, takes her farewell walk with USM in Hattiesburg across the stage. Left, Pineda and Cooper wait to The PRCC Singers choir will be a part of the world premiere of hear who will be crowned. “The Prodigal,” an oratorio by Mack Wilberg, American compos- n See story, photos, page 8. er and conductor of the Mormon Tabernacle Choir. This work was commissioned by the University of Southern Mississippi Choral Activities and is based on the story of the prodigal son in Luke 15. The PRCC Singers will present the oratorio with the USM choir Spring enrollment up 1% over last year at 7:30 p.m. Feb. 12 at Main Street Baptist Church in Hattiesburg. Pearl River Community College’s enrollment situation,” said PRCC to be slightly shrinking. Some attribute “Our students will have the opportunity to sing with a sympho- spring semester enrollment for 2015 President William Lewis. “We wish it enrollment declines to an improving ny orchestra in a choir of about 400 singers,” said LaDona Tyson, shows a one percent increase over the was a little bit stronger, but in the envi- economy, while others cite changes in PRCC director of choral activities. “It is a unique and wonderful 2014 spring enrollment. ronment that we have in colleges and federal legislation as potential reasons. musical experience.” Through the end of registration, spring universities throughout the country, we Dr. Adam Breerwood, Vice President The oratorio also has been accepted to be performed at the enrollment was at 4,102 students. feel pretty good about where we are with for the Poplarville Campus and the Mississippi ACDA/MMEA conference in Hattiesburg in March. Records also show that students are the spring enrollment.” Hancock Center, reported that campus signed up for more credit hours, a two This spring’s increase follows a fall-se- housing is just about full for the spring Museum hours are set percent increase over 2014. mester enrollment increase of 2.4 per- semester. Enrollment at the Forrest County cent. PRCC was one of only three com- “Our dormitories are near full capacity The PRCC Museum is open daily during the spring semester. Center in Hattiesburg continues to show munity colleges in Mississippi to show and we are experiencing a spike in resi- Hours are 2-4 p.m. on Monday and Wednesday, 9-11 a.m. up well. This spring’s total is 1,200 stu- an enrollment increase in the fall. dence life students compared to last Tuesday and Thursday and 8-11 a.m. and 12-4 p.m. Friday. dents. PRCC’s increase this school year is spring,” said Breerwood. The museum is located in the old Hancock Hall near the “Our credit hours generated are up bucking national trends which show that “We have really hit the ground running PRCC Police offices. from last year, so we feel good about our community college enrollment appears this semester.” HEADWAE: Parker, Farmer recognized Dr. Amanda Parker of Petal and other instructors and they all held her in “As an instructor, I strive to make an Shannon Farmer of Richton will be hon- very high standing in the classroom. impact on my students both in and out of ored Feb. 17 during the annual HEAD- Shannon is a mother, maintains a full-time the classroom,” she said. “I want my stu- WAE observance in Jackson. job and maintains a very high GPA. dents to learn the material, but also take HEADWAE - Higher Education Above all, she was attentive in class, par- away a desire to continue learning. As in- Appreciation Day, Working for Academic ticipated in class, and showed a true desire structors, we should make the classroom Excellence - was established by the to learn.” an enjoyable experience so the students Legislature to honor academically talent- Farmer, 38, is a Hattiesburg native and want to come back. I am honored to be ed student and faculty members. is taking the prerequisites to apply for chosen as the HEADWAE recipient be- Parker is chair of the science and health PRCC’s associate degree nursing pro- cause this award embodies my desire to department at the Forrest County Center gram. promote academic achievement in all my where she teaches microbiology, anatomy “I want to thank Dr. Amanda Parker for students.” and physiology and Zumba. choosing me for this great honor,” she Parker and her husband, Adam, are the “Dr. Parker was selected for the HEAD- said. “I have thoroughly enjoyed my parents of a daughter, Kara. Adam Parker WAE award because of her continued stu- learning experience and I am looking for- is a police officer at the Forrest County dent oriented approach, excellent teaching ward to continuing my education at Center. and willingness to go above and beyond,” PRCC.” Parker and Farmer, along with honorees said Dr. Jana Causey, assistant vice presi- She has a 12-year-old son, Rayne, and a from all of Mississippi’s colleges and uni- dent for Forrest County operations. “Her 9-year-old daughter, Karin. She is the versities, will be welcomed to the State students regard her with highest marks on daughter of Gary and Kathy Kelly of Capitol by Lt. Gov. Tate Reeves and rec- student evaluations and constantly remark Richton. ognized in each chamber of the on her ability to teach difficult material.” Parker holds the bachelor’s degree in bi- Legislature. Each honoree will be recog- As is customary, Parker selected the stu- ological sciences and the Ph.D. in bio- nized by name in front of their guests, in- dent for the HEADWAE recognition. chemistry from the University of stitution leaders, corporate sponsors and Dr. Amanda Parker (right) and Shannon Farmer of Richton “Shannon was an excellent student in Southern Mississippi. She taught at USM legislators at a luncheon at the Jackson will be honored Feb. 17 during the annual HEADWAE ob- my course,” Parker said. “I spoke to her before joining the PRCC faculty in 2009. Marriott Hotel. servance in Jackson. February 2015 • Page 2 The Drawl NEWS & OPINION Black History Month Categorized by colorism: issue still exists today By JOCELYNE BROWN ment major, Smith knows all too well what hos- The Drawl staff Writer pitality is about. He strives to remain positive and focused in his everyday life. He continues “I never hated the color of my skin, I hated to brighten the day of everyone he encounters the way people felt about it.” - Gabourey Sidibe. and finds a way to give words of wisdom or a Black History Month is celebrated as a time simple piece of encouragement to whomever is to remember, and reflect on the past. One of the in need. most influential moments that changed the Contrary to popular belief, colorism is not Black race forever was slavery. considered a dividing factor solely amongst Unfortunately, Africans were forced to leave African Americans. If you take a look at histo- their homeland and face the possibility of death ry, you will find that many ethnic groups suf- before the possibility of a future. They endured fered from colorism, and the negative effects it numerous amounts of pain, such as whippings, bestowed upon them. Campus hangings, and everything in between. “Historically, pale is what you needed to be to Years later when the 13th Amendment abol- excel in life. The darker complexion typically scenes ished slavery, aspects of slavery remained, in- meant that one worked out in the hot sun all day cluding colorism. long, and was considered to be somewhat of a Colorism is defined as being prejudice or dis- lower class,” explained Emily McIntyre, 19, a PRCC Yeardisk pho- criminating against individuals with a darker PRCC student. tographer Brandon skin tone, typically among people of the same “It’s not just based on African Americans or Hogue of Bay St. ethnic or racial group. Caucasians for that matter, colorism also exists Louis greeted stu- During slavery, many discovered that the in parts of the world including Asia, and India.” dents with a camera lighter toned individuals usually worked inside, Emily enjoys English and history all the as they returned to while the darker toned individuals same, so she decided to double major school for the spring worked outside. This brought about a for the two. semester on the terrible divide that faintly exists in “The ‘it factor’ changes all the Poplarville campus. today’s society. time, that’s why you can’t worry Enrollment at all “Back when I was younger, kids about what others think of you; you PRCC campuses is would joke, and say that I stayed in just have to love yourself as is.” up one percent over the oven too long,” said Bradford “We shouldn’t change, in order to a year ago. Moore, 21, a PRCC student at the fit someone else’s agenda. I am who Forrest County Campus. I am, and God made me this way,” Bradford is a Criminal Justice said Brandi Korbee, 20, also a stu- major who aspires to help others dent at PRCC. Don’t rush: Take some time rather than bring them down. Brandi is a Vet Tech major with a Although he is a strong willed, Brown kind heart, who believes in equality, hardworking, well spoken, and intelli- the future of humanity and the well- to decide your life’s direction gent young man, reminiscing about his experi- being of animals. By ISHIMINE GOINS ate about, complete all prerequisites and later ences with colorism, understandably brought In closing, like many others, these students The Drawl Staff Writer realize it was the wrong choice. upon a look of sadness in his eyes. have different opinions, but they all agree that No, don’t get me wrong, you can be anything “Now that I’m older, it doesn’t affect me any- colorism does indeed exist. By far, one of the most important questions you want to be in life, just realize that some more, I don’t let it. I personally like to get to From social media, to television to everyday we were asked at an early age: What Do You things will require the most absolute effort, and know someone for who they are, rather than life, the pigmentation of one’s skin can be the Want To Be When You Grow Up? willingness. Sometimes pursuing your passion what they look like,” he said. deciding factor for a number of things. Although most of our answers have changed can be dangerous. What if you were met face to face with col- In a world full of diversity and intermingling from “Fireman” or “Rock Star Legend,” this So many young people want to be the basket- orism? How would you react? Would it even races, sooner or later everyone will have no question is very relevant through our journeys ball player, but no one is interested in owning matter, or is it something that you never really choice but to accept the fact that people are dif- in college. the team. One thing to remember is thought about? These questions begin to res- ferent and being different is not a crime. I’ve been a “Grown Up” for quite your gift is the thing you do the ab- onate with one of PRCC’s wisest students. “The greatness of a man is not in how much some time, and I’m not ashamed to solute best, with the least amount of “I wouldn’t sit and debate over it,” said wealth he acquires, but in his integrity, and his say that I’ve asked myself that ques- effort. Freddie Smith, 54, a PRCC student. “I would be ability to affect those around him positively.” - tion quite frequently. One important In conclusion, I’ve decided to the bigger person, and walk away. I’m supposed Bob Marley aspect I’ve learned through life is the major in English; I am a writer, poet, to know better, I was born in the ‘60s, and I have n Jocelyne Brown is a freshman student difference between “Gifts” and and an artist. I found a way to utilize been through a lot.” from Hattiesburg, formerly from Carlisle, “Passion.” my gift, while incorporating my pas- As a hotel, restaurant, tourism, and manage- Pa. If you were to ask me today what sion. When you’re able to do that, I my passion is, off the top I would believe youíve succeeded. Never say music, and that is true. Now, if choose a career path based on in- you were to ask me what my gift is, come. PRCC much, much more I would say every aspect of English. Choose your gift, and it’ll never Quite often when students transition Goins feel like career, just your passion. to college life, they feel compelled to answer Food for thought! than just the 13th grade that question abruptly, not actually taking time n Ishimine Goins is a sophomore student to think. They chose a subject they’re passion- from Hattiesburg. By JESSALYN BISESI cer of this wonderful group, my life as a The Drawl Staff Writer Wildcat was changed. Countless doors have been opened for me: “Community college is nothing but the thir- being able to take part in ROAR Summer I am just a Louisiana girl teenth grade.” I possessed this common stereo- Orientation as a ROAR leader, gaining a job in type concerning community colleges as a sen- the Student Success Center as a Peer Mentor, ior in high school. and being able to attend the University of in a Mississippi world In fact, I even went so far as to saying that Mississippi in the Fall of 2015 with $16,000 attending a community college proved a waste worth of scholarship money awarded to me By McKENNA BRYANT pride. of time. Little did I know, however, how wrong strictly for being a member of Phi Theta Kappa The Drawl Staff Writer Louisiana is a French-based state, so instead I had perceived community colleges. and being a community college transfer with of having Pearl River County, we have I had my life planned out by the time I was the correct GPA. I come from the small, close-knit town of Washington Parish. Still, a semester and half seventeen, or so I thought. I would graduate Had I gone straight to a university from high Bogalusa, La. Who knew Mississippi was so into my college career, I call this county, or any high school, attend the University of Southern school, I would not have had the chance to dis- different than my home state? county in general, a parish. Mississippi, and obtain a degree in cover myself and discover the positive perks of Everything seems remarkably different. Another adjustment is the spelling and pro- psychology. community colleges. There is one thing for sure about my transition nunciation of towns. Places like “The Kiln” I laugh at this now because after “Never judge a book by its and this particular quote declares it to be true, throw me off due to the fact there is no “the” in actually taking a psychology course cover.” We have all heard this say- “You can take the girl out of Louisiana but you the official name or on Exit signs on the inter- at Pearl River Community College - ing at least once in our lives; it holds can’t take the Louisiana out of the state. well let’s just say psychology is not much meaning and truth. girl.” I am sure there are many things my forte. Pearl River Community College During my first conversation with and concepts from Louisiana that Looking back, I inwardly scold changed my life for the better, and I a PRCC student, confusion erupted Mississippians cannot completely my high school self for being so am forever thankful for the opportu- when she enlightened me that she figure out, especially down in the naive and quick to judge. Why did I nities this outstanding institution and I were to be roommates at “The bayou and in New Orleans. allow myself to be easily persuaded has given me. I now know how River.” I have learned that the less you un- merely by hearsay? Misinformation; wrong I had been for labeling com- Well, to me, when the term “The derstand in the beginning, the better that’s how! I was unaware of the munity colleges the “thirteenth River” is brought up, my first the experience in the end. Each state amazing opportunities attending a Bisesi grade,” and I hope to redeem myself thought is basking in the warmth of is delightfully swaddled in its own community college presented. by informing others of what I had not been the sun on the banks of the Bogue world, by the passionate and faithful I attended Pearl River Community College, aware of as a senior in high school. Chitta River, swimming in the cool arms of its citizens. at first, strictly because of the scholarship Community colleges are NOT the thirteenth murkiness and floating in an inner Bryant I am a Louisiana born and raised money awarded to me. Then an organization grade, but rather a helping hand to guide peo- tube along the petite waves with girl, but I am a Mississippi taught by the name of Phi Theta Kappa walked its ple through their education journey. friends in the heat of summer. Wildcat! way into my life. n Jessalyn Bisesi is a sophomore student I am finally accustomed to hearing it, and, at n McKenna Bryant is a freshman student Since the day I became a member and offi- from Picayune. times, I even say it with deep and genuine from Bogalusa, La. SACS accreditation Pearl River Community College is accredit- SACS reaffirmation process ed by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges to award as- sociate degrees. Contact the Commission on Colleges at 1866 Southern Lane, Decatur, Georgia 30033-4097, telephone 404-679-4500, 2015 deadlines approaching or at http://www.sacscoc.org for questions about the accreditation of Pearl River By Dr. JENNIFER SEAL out the southeast region. The OPIR has begun logistical and tactical Community College. The Commission is only VP: Planning and Institutional Research Overall, the Office of Planning and planning for the on-site reaffirmation visit to be contacted to learn about the accreditation Institutional Research (OPIR) is making that will occur Oct. 27-29, 2015. status of the College, to file a third-party com- On Dec. 7-9, Pearl River Community steady progress toward the established March The Quality Enhancement Plan (QEP) ment at the time of the College’s decennial re- College administrators attended the 2014 2, 2015, deadline to submit the Committee continues developing view, or to file a complaint against the College Southern Association of Colleges and SACSCOC reaffirmation report. the First-Year Experience as its with evidence that appears to support non- Schools (SACSCOC) Annual Meeting. The SACSCOC reaffirmation focus. compliance with a standard or requirement. All The “Sounding the Right Notes: Relevance signifies to students, community, The QEP passion is evidenced in in a Time of Transition” themed meeting was and peer learning institutions that the words of Dr. Amy Townsend, normal inquiries about the institution, such as held in Nashville, Tenn. Pearl River Community College Director of QEP, “We are on the admission requirements, financial aid, educa- Conference speakers included the takes seriously its mission of offer- verge of changing life as we know tional programs, etc., should be addressed di- Honorable Margaret Spellings of the George ing a quality education and has the it at PRCC.” rectly to Pearl River Community College and W. Bush Foundation, Cameron Evans of the faculty, staff, and programs to n QEP information is shared not to the Commission’s office. Microsoft Corporation, and Dr. Belle carry out that mission. with all faculty, staff, and students Wheelan, President of SACSCOC. An off-site review by SAC- at PRCC through the QEP commit- Non-discrimination statement Other presenters represented numerous SCOC will occur between April tee, meetings, newsletters, and so- Pearl River Community College offers equal edu- universities and community colleges through- and May 2015. Dr. Seal cial media. cation and employment opportunities. We do not dis- criminate on the basis of race, religion, color, sex, SACS process steps age, national origin, veteran status, or disability. For inquiries regarding the non-discrimination policies or n PRCC will prepare and submit the Compliance Certification with supporting documentation by March 15, 2015. to request accommodations, special assistance, or al- n The Compliance Certification will be reviewed by the Off-Site Peer Review Committee. ternate format publication, please contact Tonia n The Off-Site Review Committee will forward its preliminary findings to the On-Site Peer Review Committee. Pearl River Community Moody, ADA/Civil Rights Coordinator, at P.O. Box College may choose to submit a Focused Report in response to these findings six weeks prior to on-site review. 5118, Poplarville, MS 39470 or 601 403-1060. n Pearl River Community College will also prepare and submit its Quality Enhancement Plan (QEP) six weeks prior to on-site review. n During October 27-29, 2015, the On-Site Review Committee will visit Pearl River Community College. The DRAWL February 2015 • Page 3 NEWS Honors Institute presents Mark Twain at Large By Dr. ERIC LEATHERWOOD his writings throughout his career. The topic of Honors Institute faculty member how the American circus influenced Twain’s writings grew from a few graduate school es- Samuel Langhorne Clemens has been very, says into a full-blown dissertation and a termi- very good to me. You may have heard him nal degree in English from the University of called by his nom de plume, Mark Twain. Southern Mississippi. His pen name comes from days spent as a Thus was proof of Twain’s genius observa- young riverboat captain on the Mighty tion that “To succeed in life, you need two Mississippi. “Mark Twain” was the call of “two things: ignorance and confidence.” fathoms” or “twelve feet,” the depth at which Sadly, I have never met Twain personally as steamboats could safely navigate the enigmatic he was born in 1835 and died in 1910, both and often treacherous river. years known for Halley’s Comet. Twain was instrumental in developing my joy “I came in with Halley’s Comet in 1835. It is of reading as a young boy. The very fabric of coming again next year (1910), and I expect to my imagination was shaped in part by the ad- go out with it. It will be the greatest disappoint- ventures of Huck Finn and Tom Sawyer; mys- ment of my life if I don’t go out with Halley’s teries of mistaken identity and murder solved by Comet. The Almighty has said, no doubt: - Now the country lawyer, Pudd’nhead Wilson; yarns here are these two unaccountable freaks; they celebrating jumping frogs; and fantastic tales of came in together, they must go out together.” Noted performer Ron Jewell will bring his one-man show, Mark Twain at Large, to PRCC giants, renegade Indians, and pirates. I was almost beside myself to learn that my for performances at 11 a.m. and 7 p.m. on Feb. 10 in the Brownstone Center for the Arts. He has taught me moderation. “I never smoke good friend and mentor, Mr. Mark Twain, to excess,” avers Twain, “that is, I smoke in would not be waiting until 2061 to return. moderation, only one cigar at a time.” n On Feb. 10, Mark Twain will be with us, I relate closely to his ambivalent relationship right here in Poplarville at Pearl River ‘American Sniper’ movie with pool. “The game of billiards,” Twain opines, Community College. Join us as Ron Jewell “has destroyed my naturally sweet disposition.” presents, “Mark Twain at Large.” And I owe Twain a great professional debt; The trouble begins at 11 a.m. or 7 p.m. in the more than entertainment Twain’s affinity for frivolity and fun and humor Brownstone Center for the Arts. lead me to examine an early influence in his Complimentary tickets are available at Room By KAITLIN COOPER U.S. veteran on Feb. 2, 2013. own life - the American circus, which shaped 214, Moody Hall or call 601-403-1180. The Drawl Staff Writer Bradley Cooper does an inspiring job play- ing Chris Kyle in the cinema film and gives a In recent news, the hit movie “American chilling depiction of what the short, but mag- Faculty Association meeting Sniper,” directed by Clint Eastwood, has nificent life of Kyle was like. grown an enormous following and critically I personally attended a showing of this mag- acclaimed praise. nificent movie, and the atmosphere of the cin- It has been said by reviewers ema was incomparable to anything I across the United States that have ever felt before. As about 75 “American Sniper” is “Eastwood’s people shuffled out of the theatre, strongest directional effort since the normal chatter after a movie was 2009,” and these praises do not not heard, instead, the sound of snif- come from the mere directional ge- fles from tears shed and utter silence nius, but instead from the story of out of reverence for what was seen the life the film is based on. were the only sounds around. Chris Kyle was an American Bouncing between the obligations sniper, who currently holds the of our everyday lives we tend to record of 160 confirmed kills out of focus on what is directly in front of a claimed 255. Kyle was so notori- us. Let us not forget the brave men ous for his lethal accuracy that there and women that have served our Cooper President Jason Ramshur, Christina Sumrall and Marjory Thrash discuss the agenda for was a bounty placed on his head by country and continue to put their lives the Jan. 29 Faculty Association meeting in Poplarville. enemy forces in Iraq. at risk for the safety of our own. Kyle heroically served our country for four If you are looking for something to do one tours in Iraq, but due to his desire to strength- evening, may I suggest seeing the amazing Instructors lead tour to London en his bond with his wife and young child, re- portrayal of Chris Kyle’s life through turned home with an honorable discharge. “American Sniper.” A tour of London led by Pearl River formance. Kyle’s life was cut tragically short when he n Kaitlin Cooper is a sophomore student Community College instructor Jason Ramshur In addition to Ramshur, PRCC instructors was shot and killed at a shooting range by a from Picayune. is open to PRCC students, employees and the Randy Johnson, Deana Holifield and Julia public. Ferguson will be part of the tour group. PRCC will offer a certified nursing assistant course at night, beginning in Cost for those under 30 years old is $3,298 The trip is open to the public as well as those PRCC offers April, in Poplarville. and includes air fare and double-occupancy associated with PRCC. The class costs $500 and will meet from 5 to 9 p.m. on Monday and hotel accommodations. For those 30 and older, Deadline to enroll in the tour without late fees nursing Thursday nights from April 13 through June 29. The fee includes the work- the price is $3,448. is Feb. 22. Enrollment can be done on-line at ef- book and the state fee for the NACES exam. The trip will include guided sightseeing tours collegestudytours.com/enroll; by email at efcol- Applications will be accepted through March 6, and interviews will be assistant held on March 18. in London as well as Stonehenge and Bath. legestudytours.com/enrollmentbook; or by tele- Once selected for the class, students must provide a clean drug screen, Included in the tour cost are entrance fees to phone at 877-485-4184. background check, one-step TB skin test and payment. For an application or Windsor Castle, the Tower of London, the For information, contact Ramshur at 601 403- course more information, telephone Cheryl Frierson at 601 403-1113. British Museum and an evening theater per- 1054 or go to www.efcollegestudytours.com.

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learn mmore:re:o WMCAREY.EDUWWMM ARECAREYY..EDU.EDED orr callcallo (601) 318-6051 February 2015 • Page 4 The DRAWL FORREST COUNTY CENTER ATC: Skill certificate course begins April 6 By LEE BELL expressed by companies surveyed. Other mod- Director of the Lowery Woodall Center ules covered included, Employability, First Aid/CPR, OSHA 10 hour with Arc Flash, On Jan. 29, representatives from local indus- Manufacturing Math, Precision Measurements, try and economic development partners met at Blue Print Reading, SPC, and Lean the Lowery Woodall Center to form an adviso- Manufacturing. ry council for the Basic Manufacturing Skill Time is also built into the course for an indus- Certificate course being offered under the um- try visit. brella of Pine Belt Works. Classes will meet on Tuesday and Thursday This is a consortium consisting of Pearl River nights for four hours each night and eight hours Community College, The Area Development on Saturday for five weeks at the Woodall Partnership, South Mississippi Planning and Center in Hattiesburg. Development District and the WIN Job Center. Success for this program will be determined Members of the council were able to hear the by the participants that go on to find work in one results of a local survey and to see how the of the manufacturing facilities. While they will course is designed to meet the needs expressed be prepared for entry level employment, the through that survey. manufacturing foundation gained through this Scheduled to start on April 6, The Basic program will prepare them to move up with Manufacturing Skill Certificate course is an 80- time. David Jack Hale at the computer. hour intensive course that gives participants a Anyone interested in attending this course good manufacturing foundation. will need to start at the Hattiesburg WIN Job The course will be run like a job with partici- Center. Initial cost of the course is $60. This GED program at PRCC gave pants clocking in and out for each class meeting. covers the cost of certifications and class mate- On time attendance was the number one need rials. this student a new direction PRCC book donations By DAVID JACK HALE very scared at first. Special to The Drawl It ALL STARTED with getting my GED here at Pearl River Community College. I re- My name is David Jack Hale and I am now ceived my GED (High school equivalency a paraplegic due to a wreck I had 12 1/2 years diploma) on Dec. 28, 2011. ago (2002), at the age of 16, driving while Since, I have completed five semesters of drinking and being impaired with other drugs. junior college - Making the dean’s list twice I had only completed the 9th grade, and this and President’s list once - along with having an incident happened during my 10th-grade year. overall 3.68 GPA), due to graduate after the Because of my immaturity and selfishness 6th semester and move right on along to with my actions, I was driving 120 m.p.h. on University of Southern Mississippi to work to- country two lane, when my life as I knew it ward my Master’s degree in psychology. was over. I broke my back, fractured my neck, Psychology is my major due to my occupa- and ruptured my spleen due to the impact and tion of being a drug abuse counselor. I must pressure of the car landing somewhat on me not leave out minoring in Bible College, know- after I was ejected. ing that motivational speaking is the passion I These careless actions, with a very blessed have been truly blessed with. outcome, left me paralyzed from T-4 (chest- In conclusion and most importantly, it’s not line) and lower. about me, it’s about YOU. I pray that my story For many years I was confused, angry, and has in some way or another helped to inspire lost; moreover mad at the world for something you to know that you can DO IT! that was my fault. No matter where you come from, or where To sum up a very long story of my injury and you’ve been, it is all about right now. It is what it caused, “I accepted Christ into my about the present and where you want to go, heart” in 2011. Furthermore, and since doing and do you want to succeed. so, many wonderful things have happened to I have so far, and I know you can too! Do not me and my life. Just ask, I’ll share. hold back, “PUSH THROUGH” no matter the Moreover, I decided it was time to do some- situation. The Lord and I love you so be thing with my life and get my education. I was blessed and favored all of your days. Pearl River Community College’s Phi Theta Kappa chapter at the Forrest County Center recently do- nated copies of Homer Hickam’s young adult sci-fi book, Crater Trueblood and the Lunar Rescue Company, to several local school li- braries. Above, Phi Theta Kappa stu- dents Michael Byron of Petal (standing left) and Keegan Hall of Hattiesburg talk to a class of students at N.R. Burger Middle School re- cently about Homer dream Hickam’s book. Upper left, from left are Byron, Hall, N.R. Burger Middle School Matthew, GED® graduate librarian Natasha Terrell Stewart and Dr. Ryan Don’t waitw’Don ait ananyant y longerlonger.. MakMake 20. 20151e 5 the year you makmakee your Ruckel, PRCC instructor and dreams a reality when you pass the GED® test. PTK advisor. Middle left, from left are Dr. Ruckel, rom From January 26 – February 28, w ha, ve e two special offfferse to help you get started: Byron, Presbyterian Christian School librarian TakeTTaake the GED Ready® Savee $1$10$1vSa 0 on ye yourour first Sandra Greer and Hall. practiceactice tpr ttest fforor $1est $1 GED® t testest Lower left, from left are Dr. Ruckel, Hall, Oak Grove • vSa e $5 on each practice test you t eakou • Good for yGood our first GED® test subject Upper Elementary librarian • Find out if you’re ready to take the • Combine with other state and local Ashley Prine and Byron. ® GED test ers and safof sa ev en moreve The donations are a result of • Get personal study plans to help you • St art with any of the four test subjects: this semester’s research for score higher Reasoning Through Language Arts, Math, Science, or Social Studies PTK’s Honors In Action • See the exact pages and chapters you Project: Celestial Frontiers. need to study • hedule bSc by Feb 28 to sa e!v “After looking at the risks and rewards of space explo- ration, we came to the con- What ar you we aiting for? clusion that more young Log in ttoo yyourour MyGED® account ttoo accessccess these ofoffers!fffers! people need to be inspired Don’tt haveha’Don havt e a MyGED® account? Go to GED.com.com .comGED and sign up fforor FREE. to consider STEM and /or careers with NASA,” said Dr. ® vs ne’hereT vs er been a better time to take the GED test! Ruckel. “The novel being do- nated is set on the moon 120 years in the future.” GED® and GED TTeTestingesting ServiceService® are registered trademarks of the American Council on Education. Used under license. CopCopyrightyright © 20201515 GED TTeTestingesting SerServicevice LLC. All rights reserved.reser ed.v Contact Terri Clark, GED Counselor at (601)554-5551 for more testing information. Lunch and Learn Faculty Association officers

Faculty Association officers at the Forrest County Center this school year include from Karen Bond, department chair of science, mathematics and business in Poplarville, was left: Doug Donohue, treasurer; Dr. Terri Ruckel, vice president; and Dr. Tim Crowe, presi- the keynote for a Lunch and Learn for faculty at the Forrest County Center on Jan. 29. dent. Not picture is Jenny Brown, secretary. Her presentation was “What is Dropbox?” The DRAWL February 2015 • Page 5 FORREST COUNTY CENTER Dental Hygiene news

PRCC Practical Nursing chair Susan Bedwell retiring after 31 years. Relationships and successes: Pearl River Community Items Bedwell will miss most College’s Dental Hygiene program will once again On Feb. 27, Susan Bedwell, chair of the ty/staff/administration relationships are great; participate in the annual Department of Practical Nursing at the Forrest we understand one another’s challenges, disap- Give Kids a Smile event, County Center, will retire after 31 years at pointments and successes with teaching. The scheduled for Friday, Feb. PRCC. student relationships are still a mystery. Some 6, at the Allied Health FAMILY: Rick and I have been married for are short lived and some I’ll enjoy for the rest of Center on the Forrest 38 years. When I came to PRCC in 1983, we my life. County Campus. The event had a 3-year-old daughter and a 3-month-old I cannot go into a health care facility in this is sponsored by the South daughter; they are now 31 and 34. So you could town without seeing one of our graduates. That Mississippi Dental Society say, we all grew up at PRCC. is extremely rewarding and sometimes scary. and PRCC. Above, PRCC The oldest daughter just finished her 9th year WHAT ARE THE TOP CHANGES YOU student Ami Delaune of of teaching and the youngest daughter works in HAVE SEEN AT PRCC IN ALL THE Carriere cleans the teeth of early childhood development. YEARS YOU HAVE WORKED HERE? a patient last week. Rick is the Chair of the Business Division at I have been here through three college presi- Delaune and Kelly Gaudet JCJC. We are committed to the Community dents. When I came to the Hattiesburg campus (left), a PRCC Dental /Junior College system. It is the best value for there were four buildings. I parked where my Hygiene student from education in Mississippi. In addition to our two office is now. There were so few instructors we Tylertown, will participate in daughters, we have two son-in-laws and four had our names on parking spaces. the program. sweet grandchildren. You could take roll in the parking lot; there WHAT HAS IT BEEN LIKE WORKING were about 25 faculty and staff at the Forrest AT PRCC? This is the best job I have ever had. County campus. I have told my co-workers throughout the years, When nursing moved into building 5, we had PRCC Dental Hygiene clinic you will never have a job this rewarding or fun. one phone in the entire department, and no one We really do change people’s lives. had a computer. PRCC offered three health-care We have to make hard decisions sometimes, programs. now open for new patients the most difficult are in matters of discipline. When PRCC needed an antenna for a satellite Dr. Burt would always cringe when the nursing they mounted it in the top of a pine tree! (yes The Pearl River Community College Dental The clinic is located in the Allied Health faculty descended on his office because it meant they did). Hygiene program at the Forrest County Center Building at the Forrest County Center - 5448 “somebody’s unhappy.” We may have been deficient in resources but is now accepting patients for the 2015 Spring Highway 49 South in Hattiesburg. It is a challenge to keep faculty, students and we excelled in creativity. I would say the Top Semester. For an appointment, call (601) 554-5509 or the learning environment moving forward and Change has been the Growth. Services include oral and periodontal exams, contact Dr. Shana Allen, program director for positive. At the end of our program we really do We have grown in numbers, technology and radiographs, fluoride treatments, sealants, oral additional information. n know if we were successful, based on Nclex offerings. We changed and grew so fast you prophylaxis, oral hygiene instructions, oral Dental Hygiene students are also selling scores. never had time to be bored. cancer screenings and nonsurgical periodontal professional white strips as a fund raiser this That is a reflection of what the student, facul- WHAT ARE YOUR RETIREMENT therapy. spring. They are $40 a box. For information, ty, and the learning environment have been for PLANS? I want some family-time with my Students of the program perform work while call (601) 554-5509. n the year. That can be a tough job, sometimes grandchildren and Rick! I take care of my 95- supervised by dental hygiene instructors. Dental Hygiene staff include: Dr. you felt like you were your own cheerleader. year-old mother and I will have more time for Appointments are free for PRCC students, fac- Shanalyn Allen, department chair and instruc- WHAT WILL YOU MISS THE MOST her as well. But, I predict, we will be spending ulty, and staff. tor; Donna Ann Lunn, Charity McCoy, dental ABOUT PRCC? The relationships. The facul- a lot more time at the Lucky Rabbit! The fee for the general public is $25 for hygiene instructors; Rhonda Bosarge and adults and $20 for children (12 and under). Karen Carlisle, dental assisting instructors. OTA students visit Capitol

Zac Craven leads worship for the Baptist Student Union at the Forrest County Center on Students in Pearl River Community College’s Occupational Therapy Assistant Program, Jan. 28. Craven is an Intercultural Studies major at William Carey University, with experi- class of 2016, recently visited the state capitol in Jackson. The OTA students were encour- ence as a missionary in Latin America. He currently serves as the worship leader at aged to learn who their state legislators are and met with them in the Capitol Rotunda for Ridgecrest Baptist Church. coffee and conversation. The trip was in collaboration with the Mississippi Occupational Therapy Association’s Legislative Day, in which all OT practitioners in the state offered edu- cation about the profession and enhance relationships with state legislators. Students in- clude from left: Front row - Erin Lick of Hattiesburg, Ashton Hermetz of Gulfport, Mackenzie Vet Center visits campus Stuart of Waynesboro, and Sierra Singley of Millry, Ala. Second row - Chelsea Barrett of Poplarville, Angel Bass of Columbia, Carley Slade of Poplarville, Katelyn Crager of Greene The Department of Veterans Affairs Mobile functioning within the family, work, school or County, Alana Hopkins of McComb, Kiara Davis of Guntown, Michala Dye of Ovett, Pamela Vet Center made a stop Jan. 15 at PRCC’s other areas n Carter of Seminary, and CJ Sumrall of Hattiesburg. Third row - Erin Honeysucker of Forrest County Center to make military-stu- Military sexual trauma counseling for ac- Hattiesburg, Carley Harrell of Poplarville, Shelby Ladner of Necaise, and Ashley Kelp of dents aware of the available services. tive-duty service members of both genders Natchez. Back row - Paul Childers of Columbia and Michael Skaggs of Rankin County. Along with offering information on benefits n Bereavement counseling available to veterans, active-duty members and n Group meetings and counseling their relatives, the mobile center also provides n Marital and family counseling more specified services. n Substance abuse information and referral “Helping veterans readjust back into a social n Community education climate and reintegrate into society is among the n Liaison with community agencies. many services we offer,” said Thomas Tucker, a n Active-duty members also can discuss VA readjustment counseling technician. “Our post-traumatic stress disorder and sexual trauma services are for veterans who served during issues with us confidentially, Tucker said. World War II all the way up to those who are Gloria Wasmund, PRCC’s VA certifying offi- serving in current campaigns.” cer, said the mobile center provided an invalu- Based out of Pensacola, Florida, the mobile able and convenient service to the more than center serves 45 counties in northwest Florida, 200 veteran-students at PRCC’s three campuses south Alabama and parts of Mississippi, said in Hattiesburg, Poplarville and Waveland. Left, PRCC students, from left, Chelsea Tucker, who added he makes stops in “This is a traveling advertisement for the Barrett of Poplarville, Erin Lick of Mississippi about twice a year. counseling services available to veterans,” she Hattiesburg, and Carley Harrell of Services provided include: said. “In many cases, a veteran may not want to Poplarville. Above, PRCC student n Individual, group and family readjustment travel to Jackson or Biloxi if they have a ques- Shelby Ladner of Necaise (left) and Tim counseling tion, but this reaches them where they are.” Pulver (right), PRCC OTA Program n Post-traumatic stress disorder treatment She said she hopes to have the mobile center Director, visit with Tim Ladner, State and help with other related problems that affect also visit the Poplarville campus at some point. Representative, District 93. February 2015 • Page 6 The DRAWL NEWS MACJC Legislative Appreciation luncheon

Dr. Scott Alsobrooks (right), Vice President for Economic and Community Development at PRCC, visits with Sen. Angela Burks Hill of Picayune, who represents portions of Marion, Pearl River and Walthall counties.

Pearl River Community College administrators, faculty and students were involved in the annual MACJC Legislative Appreciation Luncheon Jan. 27 in Jackson. Pictured above were, from left, Rep. Herb Frierson of Poplarville, PRCC stu- dents Raygan Necaise of Kiln, Michaela Andrews of Foxworth, and Jerrod Newsom of Columbia, Rep. Ken Morgan of Columbia and Rep. Toby Barker of Hattiesburg.

Dr. Jennifer Seal (center), Vice President for Planning and Institutional Reseach at PRCC, visits with Sen. Philip Moran (left) of Kiln, who represents portions of Hancock and Harrison counties, and Rep. Timmy Ladner of Poplarville, who represents portions of Forrest, Lamar, Pearl River, Hancock and Stone counties.

Pearl River Community College administrators, faculty and students talked up community colleges during the annual MACJC Legislative Appreciation Luncheon in Jackson. Pictured above were, from left, Sen. John Polk of Hattiesburg (District 44), PRCC students Jerrod Newsom of Columbia, Michaela Andrews of Foxworth, Sen. Tony Smith of Picayune PRCC President William Lewis (center) visits with Sen. (District 47), Dr. Jana Causey, Assistant Vice President for Forrest County Operations and Raygan Necaise of Kiln. Philip Moran (right) and Rep. Ken Morgan. Start year off right with PRCC alumnus Anderson a set of personal goals recognized for BET honor

By TONIA MOODY isfaction in their performance and improve PRCC alumnus and State Rep. Jeramey decided to run for office, I didn’t know what Anderson of Moss Point was recognized as an we would come away with, but it’s all God- Director of Admissions & Records their self-confidence. To be successful in achieving your goals, “Early Riser” during taping of the BET Honors driven. He’s brought me to a place to represent This is the time of the year we set goals for make them small and achievable and celebrate show in Washington D.C. Mississippi and Moss Point and areas all our lives to make them better; we call them your successes along the way. The show was taped Saturday, Jan. 24, and across the coast, and we are making a differ- “resolutions.” Other goals that will help you in your over- will air on Monday, Feb. 23. ence.” We look at areas of our lives that we want to all success include health related goals. In col- Anderson, 23, became the youngest person Anderson didn’t go on stage during the change or improve and we use the New Year as lege, you are primarily responsible for taking elected to the Mississippi Legislature when he show, but he was recognized along with teen a fresh start for the changes we want to make. care of yourself. won the District 110 seat at age 21 author Chental-Song Bembry as Goals should be a part of all of our lives, but You should have goals that include eating in a special election in November being a rising star to watch. students should set specific goals right, getting required amounts of 2013. He attended PRCC on a soc- Anderson got to walk down the toward reaching their educational rest and exercise. cer scholarship after graduating red carpet with the many stars of the goals. The health related goals will con- from Moss Point High School. show. He met actor Anthony The process of setting goals al- tribute to your overall health and Anderson talked to the Anderson and joked on twitter that it lows students to choose where they help you concentrate and excel in Mississippi Press newspaper in was “good meeting my fake cousin.” want to go in school and what they class. Pascagoula about the honor. During the show, he was sitting on want to achieve. Having sharp, Finally, learn to advocate for “It was a remarkable experience,” the same row as power couple clearly defined goals, which you yourself. Your parents can’t fight he said. “I remember sitting on my Kanye West and Kim Kardashian as can measure, will allow you to take your battles for you. College is a couch when I was younger watch- well as Usher but didn’t get to meet pride in accomplishing those goals. time to begin to speak up for your- ing the BET Awards. It’s different them. You can see clear forward self. Let your requests be known than the BET Honors in that it rec- Anderson West won the Visionary Award progress in what might have seemed and handle conflict like an adult. ognizes people who help make im- and Usher won the Musical Arts a long drawn out process. By setting Moody Learning how to advocate for provements in their communities, but I remem- Award. goals and knowing what you want to yourself in the controlled college set- ber sitting there watching that and hoping one The other top honorees were Phylicia achieve, students can improve their academic ting will help you move towards successful in- day that I could make an impact and make Rashad, Theatrical Arts Award; John performance, increase their motivation to dependence in the future. It has been said that those kind of contributions to our community. Thompson, Technology and Business Award; achieve their end goal, increase pride and sat- a goal without a plan is just a wish. “When they called me to be a part of this and Dr. Johnnetta Betsch Cole, Education Start 2015 with goals for academic success. show, it really was a dream come true. When I Award. Alumni spotlight ‘How Pearl River Made a Difference for Me’ By JULIE ZWIES my freshman year at PRCC that I was dawned on me “I could do this after achieved academic peace with my- PRCC alumnus in over my head with my chosen all.” I thanked Dr. Grant and immedi- self. I had found my calling. Upcoming events major. ately switched my major to zoology. I graduated from Mississippi State n April - Pearl River County Have you ever heard the saying, The science courses were fun; Things went well after that; I grad- with a BS in microbiology in 1991. Alumni Association Scholarship “when a door closes, a window however, it was the math courses that uated from PRCC in 1989 and trans- I had been going through Air Force 5k (Date TBA) opens?” Seems that’s been the case in became my curse, most namely cal- ferred to Mississippi State. ROTC at MSU, and I received my n April 25 - Little Black Dress my life up until now. culus. Apparently, in order to do well At MSU, I found myself yet again commission as a Second Lieutenant Charity Luncheon at the I have seen opportunities that in physics, you also have to do well in facing another challenge. As part of in the Air Force at the same time I re- President’s Home: $50 donation. slipped away, only to realize new math, and I had not accounted for that the zoology curriculum, students ceived my degree. Contact Alumni Coordinator ones come along that are even better. in my decision. were required to take a I took a delay from active duty to Candace Harper at 601-403-1193 It was at PRCC that I realized where For years I had had trou- comparative anatomy get my Medical Technology certifica- for information. the opportunities really were for me. ble with all types of math in course. tion. I then went on to serve 20 years n April 30 - Lifetime I grew up in Poplarville, and when school, and here I was, mak- About six weeks into as a Biomedical Laboratory Officer, Achievement Hall of Fame I graduated high school, I knew I ing miserable grades in cal- the course and already stationed in several different states, Dinner at Southern Oaks and wanted to go into the science field. culus and ready to admit de- failing, I quickly realized and deployed twice, including Iraq. Garden in Hattiesburg. Tickets I had always had a deep and abid- feat entirely. that I was in trouble. I finally retired in January 2013, are $100 each. Contact Alumni ing love for science and was eager to It was then that I started I did a swift perform- and after holding a job as a microbi- Coordinator Candace Harper at learn more in college so I could get on the journey that would ance self-review of the ology supervisor at a local blood 601-403-1193 for information. started on a future career as a scien- determine my career path. courses I was taking at bank for a couple of months, I finally n May 1 - Registration opened tist. One day in 1988, I was the time. It seemed odd was presented the civilian opportuni- for the Hancock County Alumni The problem is I was completely sitting in Dr. John Grant’s to me that I was failing ty I needed. Scholarship Golf Tournament at unsure of what science field to study. office. He was my physics terribly in anatomy, yet I am now the Regional Laboratory the Diamondhead Country Club. I had always been good in science and calculus teacher. I was Zwies at the same time I was Director for CHRISTUS Santa Rosa Contact Alumni Coordinator class, but now I was faced with a pretty much in tears because it was making nearly perfect scores in mi- Health System in San Antonio, Texas. Candace Harper at 601-403-1193 dilemma as to which scientific study obvious I was not making good crobiology. My duties include managerial over- for information. path to take. grades in calculus, but I was at a total The experience I had gone through sight of 5 hospital laboratories and 2 After thinking about it for a bit, I loss as to which science major I could at PRCC had taught me to realize free-standing emergency clinic labs in ent path. It probably wouldn’t have decided that physics was a good op- even try to pursue. I was ready to give some opportunities were probably the greater San Antonio area. Needless been nearly as exciting as what I tion for me, so that is where I started. up entirely. not the best for me, while other ones to say, it keeps me busy, but I love ended up doing. I had done well in physics class in Dr. Grant suggested that I switch were staring me straight in the face. what I do, and that’s the benefit. In reflection, I probably wouldn’t high school, so why not? my major to a science field that re- This yet again was another one of Since graduating PRCC, I have have changed a thing. I have Dr. However, I quickly found out in quired less of a math burden, like one those opportunities. I changed my often thought what would have hap- Grant and Pearl River Community of the life sciences. Suddenly, it major to microbiology, and finally pened if I had decided to take a differ- College to thank for that. The DRAWL February 2015 • Page 7 NEWS Health Symposium draws record crowd at PRCC

More than 400 women indulged themselves luncheon entertainment. for a day at the 2015 Women’s Health n Honors Institute students assisted with the Symposium Saturday at Pearl River continental breakfast and the luncheon. Community College. n Art students assisted with the Art Walk. They shopped for jewelry, bird houses and Each participant received a “Blueberry Pearl” other merchandise at the Art Walk, took advan- necklace and a garment bag embossed with the tage of free screenings, such as blood pressure PRCC logo. Approximately 200 door prizes and cholesterol, and treated themselves to chair were awarded, including six grand prizes: massages and manicures. n Original Alex Ladner painting worth $100 They packed into Olivia Bender Cafeteria to to Forrest County Center instructor Charity hear health information from a panel of local McCoy of Brooklyn. healthcare providers and laughed with speaker n Catherine Popesco bracelet worth $100 from Medical laboratory technology students from the Forrest County Center drew blood for Janie Walters as she whooped and hollered in Apples Ltd to Savannah Hodge of Poplarville. cholesterol tests in conjunction with Highland Community Hospital. between talking about ways to reduce stress. n Year’s supply of Coke products worth $175 “It’s not until we accept the fact that we’re liv- to Angelia Burnham of Petal. ing with stress that we can begin to manage it,” n Turquoise and peridot earrings worth $200 Walters said. “It helps, if you can, to avoid it.” from Parris Jewelers to Rebecca Seals of Keys to managing stress include honesty, pa- Lumberton. tience, forgiveness, faith in something bigger n Adirondack chairs made by PRCC ad- than yourself, deep breaths and laughter, she vanced construction technology students to said. Vondell Wallace of Poplarville. “It’s not going away,” Walters said. “We just n Concrete picnic table and benches made by have to be smarter about dealing with it.” PRCC brick masonry students to Angie Smith Students from several PRCC programs of Picayune. played an active part in the symposium: Grand sponsor for the symposium was the n Nursing students did blood pressure Lower Pearl River Valley Foundation. checks. Silver sponsors were Hancock Bank, n Medical laboratory technology students did Mississippi Power, Pearl River County Hospital cholesterol checks. and Nursing Home, Slidell Memorial Hospital n Dental hygiene students provided oral and Wal-Mart Supercenter in Picayune. Bronze healthcare information. sponsors were BankPlus, First National Bank of n Cosmetology students did manicures and Picayune, Hattiesburg Clinic, Highland paraffin waxes. Community Hospital, Southern Bone & Joint n The Voices select vocal ensemble provided Specialists and Wesley Medical Center.

Cosmetology students Brittany Buckley of Picayune, from front to back, Amanda Ramsey of Hattiesburg and Kellie Pascal of Picayune, give manicures to Brittany Lumpkin of Picayune, Rachel Fucich of Diamondhead and Pat Hartfield of Lumberton.

Left, speaker Janie Walters addresses the crowd. Right, Earlene Smith and Sharon Fink react with pleasure to the “Blueberry Pearl” necklace each participant received.

Ibrahima Sidibe, owner and CEO of Associate degree nursing student Kimberly Healing Touch School and Day Spa gives Freeman of Petal checks blood pressure for Lynn Grubbs of Poplarville a chair massage. Carol Ann Freeman of Lumberton. The health fair included free screenings and a variety of informational tables.

Nearly 50 percent of our students are transfers, so we understand where you’re coming from and where you want to go.

Southern Miss is the next step in your journey.

View majors and degree plans: www.usm.edu/undergraduate

Apply for admission: www.usm.edu/admissions

AA/EOE/ADAI February 2015 • Page 8 The DRAWL NEWS

Above, Lauren Baker, mistress of ceremonies, watches as the Miss PRCC Wildcat contestants compete in the physical fitness routine. Below left, contestants in the pageant check their hair and makeup before going on stage. Bottom right, Cindy Failla applies eyeshadow for her daughter, Belle Failla, before the pageant. PRCC Public Relations photos

Kaitlin Cooper crowned Miss PRCC Wildcat POPLARVILLE - Kaitlin Amanda Cooper County Center instructor Jacki Runnels of of Picayune won the Miss PRCC Wildcat Magee and instructor Carol Williams of crown following an evening of competition Poplarville. Mistress of ceremonies was Thursday, Jan. 29, at the Brownstone Center Lauren Baker of Poplarville. for the Arts at Pearl River Community College. Cooper, 19, is a pre-physical therapy major As Miss PRCC Wildcat, Cooper receives a at PRCC. She is secretary of the Honors full scholarship to PRCC. Institute, vice president for service of Phi First alternate was Amber Pineda of Theta Kappa academic honor society and the Hattiesburg, who also received the presence recipient of a Presidential Scholarship. She has and composure award; second alternate was been a PRCC River Navigator and a maid in Reese Johnson of Carriere, third alternate was the Homecoming Court. Belle Failla of Picayune, who also was named She currently is an intern with the Miss Congeniality by her fellow contestants; Environmental Protection Agency’s Gulf of fourth alternate was Abby Lowry of Mexico program through the Honors Institute. Hattiesburg. She is the daughter of Robert and Kelly Kathryn Minor of Hattiesburg received the Cooper of Picayune. physical fitness award and the judges’ inter- Other contestants were Lela Flowers of view award went to Cooper. Columbia, Lydia Howard of Poplarville, The contestants gather around Miss PRCC Wildcat 2015 Kaitlin Cooper as Chynna Judges for the “Parade of Sweethearts” pag- Gwendolyn Laizer of Carriere and Katelynn Coghlan, Miss PRCC Wildcat 2014, crowns her. eant were Tabitha Light of Hattiesburg, Forrest Keith of Purvis. Number of people with diabetes growing

By SUSIE HALL and other chronic diseases. The DPCP will fos- n Exercise for Strength and Endurance lish healthy living practices that may prevent n Appropriate Use of Medication them from developing diabetes. PRCC Nurse ter opportunities to link the community to avail- able services that otherwise are underutilized by n Working with Health Care Providers Jamie Dickson, PRCC Wellness Center Diabetes is a metabolic disorder that affects collaborating with health systems, community How It Works: Instructor, says, “A primary focus of our staff the body’s use of digested food for energy and leaders, coalitions and other organizations. Participants will make weekly action plans, here at the Wellness Center is to provide our growth. The DPCP will strive to implement and offer share experiences, and help each other solve student body with up-to-date education related In normal metabolism, the food that you eat is Medication Therapy Management, The problems they encounter in creating and carry- to preventing the onset of diseases such as dia- digested and broken down into glucose, the National Diabetes Prevention Program, and in- ing out their self-management program. betes through proper exercise and healthy eat- main source of fuel for the body. The pancreas crease access to AADE and ADA recognized The Diabetes Self-Management workshop is ing habits.” produces a hormone called insulin that moves programs as a catalyst to improve services to given 2 hours once a week for six weeks in Information available at www.msds.ms.gov, glucose from the blood into the cells. people with or at risk for diabetes, and to en- community settings. www.cdc.gov, or www.diabetes.org. n The pancreas automatically knows the right hance the quality of life for all Mississippians. For information on the Diabetes Self- Please come by Health Services located amount of insulin to produce to get the job done. The target population for this domain is resi- Management Program or workshops call the in Crosby Hall or call 403-1303 for further If you are diabetic, however, the pancreas ei- dents of all nine Mississippi Public Health MSDH Office of Preventive Health at 601- information. We are open Monday through ther produces little or no insulin or the cells do Districts with an emphasis on districts with the 576-7781. Friday from 8 a.m. until 3 p.m. during the not respond as they should to the insulin that is highest prevalence of diabetes, obesity, and car- College students are at an ideal age to estab- fall and spring semesters. produced. When this happens, glucose builds up diovascular disease. To reach the medically un- in the blood and overflows into the urine where derserved and those seeking services through it is passed out of the body. safety net healthcare providers, DPCP will uti- There are more than 25 million Americans lize established internal and external partners. that have some form of diabetes and the number Opportunities to work with both local and na- is growing every year. Mississippi was ranked tional organizations will be leveraged for a fo- second in the nation for diabetes with almost 13 cused impact. percent of the adult population suffering from Diabetes Self-Management Program type 2 diabetes. The Diabetes Self-Management Program was The State Department of Health has a developed at Stanford University’s Patient Diabetes Prevention and Control Program that Education Research Center. It’s designed to is a federally funded state-based program estab- help those with diabetes to help themselves and lished to reduce the prevalence of type 2 dia- others understand and manage their condition. betes in the state and increase the quality of life Subjects covered include: for all persons. n What is Diabetes? The following goals and priorities are taken n Preventing High/Low Blood Sugar: directly from the MSDH webpage: hyper/hypoglycemia The Diabetes Prevention and Control n Preventing or Delaying Complications Program (DPCP) will effect positive change by n Dealing with Stress offering training and education that will allow n Reading Nutrition Labels Mississippians to better self-manage diabetes n Depression Management The DRAWL February 2015 • Page 9 FINE ARTS Spirit of The River Band practice

Members of The Spirit of the River basketball band, from left, Victoria Voss of Carriere, Garrett Bourgeois of Bay St. Louis and Devin Booth of Lucedale, perform in White Coliseum during a time out in a recent home basketball game. Photo by Mitch Deaver. Jazz Knights perform

The Pearl River Community College concert band has been practicing daily for the concert at the PRCC Band Clinic later this month. Above, sax player Curtis Peters of Columbia awaits his cue to begin. Below, tuba players, from left, Hunter Rayborn of Purvis, Chayse Dorne of Picayune, David Morgan of Hancock and Michae Thrash of Poplarville await their key to begin. A large group of middle and high school musicians are expercted to attend the annual Pearl River Community College Band Clinic. Photos by PRCC Yeardisk photographer Brandon Hogue of Bay St. Louis.

The Jazz Knights from William Carey University presented a guest recital Jan. 29 at Malone Chapel. They are Sha’Darrial Hughey on alto sax, Ted Lane, guitar; Jarrett Roberts, bass; and Parker Bryd, drums. PRCC to host band clinic Approximately 250 middle and high school musicians are expected to attend the annual PRCC Band Clinic Friday and Saturday, Feb. 27-28. The students are from some 25 high school and middle schools and will audition for placement in one of three bands for the weekend.

Feb. 10 - Mark Twain at Large featuring Ron Jewell Performances at 11 a.m. and 7 p.m.; Com- Mark Twain at Large plimentary tickets available at 601 403-1180, www.brownpapertickets.com or Moody Hall Room 214 featuring Ron Jewell Feb. 27- 28: PRCC Band Clinic This one-man theatrical tour de force March 5: District Choral Festival introduces the 70-year-old Mark Twain March 24: Mississippi Symphony Orchestra through intimate conversation in the study Concert at 7 p.m. Reserved tickets at $20 and $15 available at 601 403-1180, Moody Hall of his Connecticut home. Room 214 or www.brownpapertickets.com

April 9-11: PRCC Theatre production Pearl River of “Rumors” by Neil Simon Performances at 7 p.m. April 9 and 10, 2 p.m. Community College April 11; Reserved tickets at $10 available at 601 403-1180 or www.brownpapertickets.com Honors Institute Lecture Series April 16: PRCC Symphonic Band Spring concert at 7 p.m.; no charge

April 17: South Mississippi Band Festival

April 23: PRCC Singers Spring concert at 7 p.m.; no charge

April 24-25: Pearl River Central High Sponsored by the School Showchoir Lower Pearl River April 28: PRCC JazzCats, Valley Foundation The Voices, RiverRoad Spring concert at 7 p.m.; no charge

PRCC Six-County District square miles by county 11 a.m. and 7 p.m., February 10, 2015 Jeff Davis County 408.44 Hancock County 473.75 Brownstone Center for the Arts Pearl River County 810.86 Forrest County 466.31 Complimentary tickets available at Lamar County 497.06 Room 214, Moody Hall Marion County 542.38 Total 3198.80 601 403-1180 February 2015 • Page 10 The DRAWL NEWS President’s list announced for 2014 fall semester Pearl River Community College Katie L. Terry. Ktryka T. Smith, Shelby A. Stiglets, Katie A. Dufrene, William J. Elizabeth A. Mapp, Megan Mathias, has released its Presidentís List for Columbus - Sarah E. Eads. Matison L. Taylor, Tammy A. Taylor, Dunhurst, Haleigh Durapau, Micah Brian Mitchell, Katie L. Shaw, the fall 2014 semester. Corinth - Matthew T. Murphy. Julia M. Thomas, Mikela M. J. Eastridge, Seth M. Edwards, Shannon E. Taylor, Leslie L. Terrell, Students must maintain a 4.0 aver- Diamondhead - Christopher L. Townsend, Andrew J. Willoughby, Hannah A. Falls, Malcom X. Fraise, Zachary J. Tuck, Alexander D. age to be named to the Presidentís Edenfield. Kesha M. Wrenn, Destiny R. Yates, Matthew L. Horsley, Mitchell B. Turner, Abby V. Wade. List. They are listed by hometowns: Ellisville - Brandy R. Ladner. Austin C. Yelverton, Joseph S. Yoon. Jacobs, Cheyenne A. Ladner, Krystle Richton - Emily A. Dixon, Bay St. Louis - Kristy L. Biddle, Flowood - Travis M. Racey. Jackson - Malcolm T. Ewing. S. Miller, Jerry Mitchell, Jordyn H. Shannon Farmer, Kalon M. Hillman. Kristen L. Barnes, Taylor A. Green, Foxworth - Miranda M. Meaux, Kiln - Bailee R. Brewer. Mitchell, Ranee L. Morgan, Kristen Ruth - Sarah E. Burke. Lynnette E. Hudgens, Haley J. Charles W. Stogner, Kyle Z. Tynes. Laurel - Lakeisha Barber. L. Nelson, Morgan N. Peterson, Sandy Hook - Zachary T. Boone, Sudduth. Greenville - Virginia C. Cochran. Long Beach - Kelyn E. Martin. Ashton S. Pullens, Christina V. Trevor B. Dixon, Latoya S. Green, Biloxi - Heather A. Allred, Ashley Gulfport - William A. Bedwell, Lucedale - Adria Littlefield. Seale, Doris M. Sims, Kane A. Nathaniel R. Stafford. D. Calcote. Andrea J. Donovan, Courtney M. Lumberton - Kelsey N. Arguelles, Smith, Pam M. Smith, Judith L. Seminary - Loretta K. Shields, Bogue Chitto - Chynna L. Greenwood, Brennan W. Kim, Jesse M. Barnett, Christine M. Wells, Alyssa D. Wilson. Trest A. Underwood. Coghlan. Trevor A. Krol, Tyler L. Preston, Lanier, Bonnie L. Ledet, Bailey N. Poplarville - Dana E. Allen, Sumrall - Alicia M. Britt, Hannah Brandon - Jody D. Smith. Sarah M. Sanzin. Rester, Miranda K. Taylor, Dustin D. Mallory J. Benoit, Todd A. Bergeron, Brock, Destiny L. Broome, Ashlyn P. Carriere - Jocelyn C. Aguilar, Hattiesburg - Alyssa B. Ashley, Tims, Samantha N. Wardlow, Angela L. Bickham, Allen Hunter Carr, Courtney D. Cooper,† Leah R. Balli, Melissa Begue, Matthew R. Bedwell, Quill C. Berry, Jonathan L. Woodruff, Miranda L. Braswell, Tayla Ducre, Cody B. Samantha T. Creel, Joseph W. Alexander D. Bernard, Justin D. Ternisha L. Binion, Pamela S. Woodruff. Dupont, Chezly D. Fulks, Lauren M. Delcambre, Jaylen Funches, Cooper, William C. Craft, Emily K. Breazeale, Deanna D. Brown, Callie New Augusta - Denisha M. Gentry, Braden L. Holmes, Lydia B. Gabriela Garza, Elizabeth A. Fleming, Jessica B. Gabrielle, Jason M. Bullard, Jacob R. Bullock, Daniels. Howard, MaKayla L. Ladner, Lanham, Karlea B. Nobles, Ouida R. Gibson, Alexander W. Heck, Brooke Carney, Katie E. Carroll, New Hebron - Morgan M. Shows. Rachael Ladner, Brandon L. W. Russell, Adrienne N. Shows, Amber Hewlett, John W. Houston, Catherine Crutcher, Jodie C. Dixon, Ocean Springs - Kristie X. Cao. Langlois, Karly M. Mitchell, Marcel Nathaniel J. Smith, Courtney M. Ashlyn R. Lossett, Mason G. Jouri S. Dixon, Samantha E. Early, Oxford - Anna D. Wren. H. Morales, Emily H. Necaise, Thompson. Macdonald, Courtney N. Morris, Alexis S. Fairley, Rodney M. Pass Christian - Hannah N. Bobby L. Pitts, BriAnna U. Poole, Tylertown - Jessica L. Dillon, Stettson L. Smith, Tristan H. Tate, Gillentine, Charles P. Hartfield, Mitchell, Quoc T. Nguyen. Austin W. Slade, Ashley G. Smith, Kelly Gaudet, Ashley F. Magee. Blake A. Taylor, Taylor E. Walker, Karley K. Hill, Hannah V. Hopstein, Pelahatchie - Ethan C. Martin. Ryan C. Smith, Anna K. Stewart, Union - Paula D. Pierce. Alivia L. Whitfield, Ashton R. Shelby L. Husband, Sarah N. Perkinston - Tyler J. Harvey, John L. Thurmond, Paul Thurmond, Waveland - Kendall R. Ferrell, Whitfield. Keilholz, John L. Kent, Ashley D. Mariah T. Houpy, Jazmyn R. Ladner, Tara D. Watts, Lindsey C. Wheat, Kristian A. LaFrance, John J. Longo. Collins - Courtney Boykin, Kayla Kinney, James Massengale, April Randall J. Mathis, Emily L. Necaise. Meagan A. Whitworth, McKenzie Waynesboro - Crystal L. Everett. N. Graves, Evan P. Thornton. Matthews, Andrea M. Maxwell, Petal - Teresa C. Brannan, Nelly I. M. Williams, Shannon Williams. Wiggins - Raylynn M. Mooney. Columbia - Damon Baisden, Jeffrey M. McLelland, Susan S. Emodo, Branden Jackson, Amanda Purvis - Tyler A. Abney, Erika K. Boise, Idaho - Brandon D. Brown. Daniel R. Barnett, Patrick L. Michael, Mallory G. Morgan, Haley S. Jenkins, Erin Little, Constance M. Bennett, Romello D. Brown, Steven Bogalusa, La. - Anthony J. Baughman, Benjamin J. Broom, E. Myers, Maria M. Ortiz, Michael Reed, Mason E. Stokes. B. Bush, Anna L. Delancey, Paul D. Hemphill. Shannon Peavy, Karli R. Rodrigue, Peterson, Karen J. Posey, Joshua M. Picayune - Hannah C. Basile, Doba, Chandler L. Fairley, Alexiss Fitchburg, Wisc. - Malik Billy A. Roe, Braxton R. Swanson, Shropshire, Sandra Silvain Sossa, Amber Coello, Ami L. Delaune, A. Fiorella, Kimberly A. Franklin, Clements. Associate Degee in Nursing graduates

Pearl River Community College awarded diplomas and pins Dec. 15 to the fall graduates Poplarville; Heather James of Carriere, Leadership Award; Renee` Jourdan of Covington, of the associate degree nursing program. They are, front row from left, Diane Bayhi of La.; Austin Korbe of Purvis, Jordyn Ladner of Poplarville, Cara Lott of Sumrall, Madision Poplarville, who received an award for 96 percent on the readiness test; Jessica Bedwell Mathis of Poplarville, Amber Mayo of Perkinston; third row, Jade McKean of Lumberton, of Foxworth, Dedication in Excellence and Patient Care Award; Steven Bracey of Ashley Norris of Poplarville, Kayla Overal of Kiln, Deanna Owens of Poplarville, Jessica Hattiesburg, Amanda Britt of Carriere, Shelly Brown and Tamatha Brown, both of Penton of Carriere, Lindsay Peregoy of Prentiss, Heather Pomes of Picayune, Brandy Lumberton; Kristal Burch of Picayune, Shandra Carter of Hattiesburg, Abbilee Cousins of Rester of Lumberton, Jennifer Simmons of Picayune, Kathryn Smith of Carriere, Diamondhead, Joshua Daughdrill of Picayune, Aretina Dixon of Hattiesburg, Kaitlyn Shannan Smith of Lumberton, Kandise Snider of Diamondhead, honored for 96% on the Dupont of Poplarville, Rose Duryea of Bay St. Louis, Elizabeth Ellis of Hattiesburg, Paige readiness test; Sara Beth Spicer of Hattiesburg, Kasey Stockstill of Picayune, Justin Forbes of Foxworth, Courtney Fortenberry of Columbia; second row, Tonyanike Gaines of Taylor of Lumberton, Ethan Wangerin of Hattiesburg, Judith Wells of Picayune, Hattiesburg, Dedication in Excellence and Patient Care Award; Asa Goins and Ashlea Outstanding Academy Achievement Award; Katherine Whitworth and Matilde Williams, Goodwin, both of Poplarville; Kate Gossett of Diamondhead, Cassie Hammond of both of Picayune; and Heather Williamson of Sumrall. Not pictured is Chadwick Anderson Tylertown, Julie Hightower of Lumberton, Leslie Holliman of Picayune, Danna Jackson of of Hattiesburg. PRCC Public Relations photo Dean’s list announced for 2014 fall semester

Pearl River Community College Jacob F. Burkett, Paul C. Childers, C. McIntyre, Jason C. McLeod, Smith. Shaley L. Ashley, Marissa R. Baker, has released the Deanís List for the Savannah L. Clark, Ashley E. Creel, Eusebio Medina, Alexandra G. Pass Christian - Beth A. Brown, Connor S. Barry, Rachel Bond, fall 2014 semester. Students must Kayla D. Haddox, Zach M. Hartzog, Moore, Sara E. Moulds, Angela M. Ashlyn V. Fletcher. Joseph S. Bowman, Brittany N. maintain a grade point average of Alex W. Howarth, Donavan L. Nause, Tessiah A. Naylor, Elaina M. Paulding - Shawndarin T. Porter. Buckley, Cameron W. Comardelle, 3.4 or higher to be named to the list. Huhn, Miranda L. James, Brenda I. Nguyen, Raven Nightengale, Meri Pelahatchie - Erica J. Cornelison. Jourdyn K. Cowart, Ernest Duval, They are listed by hometowns: Johnson, Shaquetta M. Johnson, G. Pickering, Triston I. Pittman, Perkinston - Cristian E. Barrios, Jessica L. Eaton, Ashtyn T. Folse, Bay St. Louis - Kevin R. Bounds, Hannah E. Landrum, Bethany N. Akia D. Rupert, Shane Saik, John C. Kaitlyn E. Hankins, Shelby C. Sarah M. Fox, Alyssa M. Graeter, Desiree Y. Brignac, Shannon M. Leming, Garrett D. Magee, James R. Sanner, Micah J. Scott, Kelvina M. Ladner, Lindsey C. Shaw, Ashley E. Margaret T. Guenther, Breanna A. Buehler, Hailey N. Furlan, Brittany Montgomery, Tracey N. Neal, Smith, Brantley M. Steen, Taylor Spell. Herndon, Hannah E. Herndon, L. Gough, Daniela Aguilar Jimenez, Calvin C. Newsom, Ian C. Parkman, Stephenson, Alkennia R. Stokes, Petal - Aaron J. Beard, David C. Rachel Hickman, Victoria A. Hines, Amelia G. Johnson, Austin E. Iriauna J. Perry, Shantrice G. Peters, Christal D. Tonumaipea, Rachel E. Bottoms, Devin L. Boudreaux, Nevada J. King, Shaynna King, Ladner Jeremy M. Medina, Haylee L. Pierce, Rachel J. Pierce, Tootle, Jacob T. Tran, Dana Tribble, Michael D. Byron, Lauren Craven, Kenneth R. Lambert, Victoria R. Courtney A. Miller, Felicia V. Jessica D. Roe, Brian A. Rogers, Morgan M. Vonder Bruegge, Kyleigh J. Creel, Stephanie C. Marisco, Cody D. Mikell, Ashton B. Thompson, Justin Thornton, Brennen M. Sanders, Kyle A. Alexesia S. Williams, Hannah N. Diehl, Elna L. Garner, Justin R. Hill, Miley, Abby P. Morris, Branda M. Ashleigh M. York. Singley, Thomas B. Terrell, Cara M. Williamson, Kristian A. Wilson, Brianna K. Hogge, Hannah Northrop, Bridget M. Orr, Laura D. Beaumont - Kristin N. Pipkin. Torquati, Essence G. Weary. Michael S. Woods, Henry S. Yoon, Holloway, Brandy A. Lindsey, Sierra Porter, Chandler D. Ray, Katelynn Biloxi - Kreszenz Hedgepeth, Diamondhead - Candice H. Cox, Megan A. Young. Monday, Kristine M. Montgomery, B. Reeves, Kelly R. Rigney, Cassidy L. Hotchkiss, Summer Lori L. Moran, Zachary L. Portrey, Jackson - Kyarius D. Body, Lindsey N. Moses, Kerrie A. Pace, Neshobi A. Shiyou, Shanna K. Polovich, Cassandra Q. Rosser, Erica N. Theriot, Rebecca L. William B. Brown, Cortez L. Robert Perry, Alec M. Rivera, James Slade, Daniel I. Smith, Jared L. Katie L. Williams. Theriot. Mitchell, Quarteiz T. Scott. J. Roberts, Jeanne` M. Saavedra, Smith, Adam C. Stockstill, Lindsey Brandon - Addie N. Brooks, Ellisville - Olivia B. Pitts. Kiln - Latisha L. Cuevas, Ross A. Rhegan N. Seymour, Jessica B. M. Strahan, Jessica R. Theriot, Jason G. Teer. Foxworth - Kailey A. Anderson, Grisham, Hope G. Shubert, Jessica Shoemake, Carrie M. Stewart. Joshua K. Tribble, Kristen E. Turner, Brookhaven - Julie C. Laird, Rebecca L. Armstrong, Joseph D. Stevens, Allie N. Stockstill. Picayune - Kaitlin D. Austin, Lorrie C. Warren, Valerie Welch, Courtney N. Watts. Bass, Kinsey B. Dean, Samantha Kokomo - Alex N. White. Timothy D. Balch, Kaitlynn A. William B. Winborn, Evelyn J. Brooklyn - Abigail D. Lowry, Dixon, Matthew Z. Holmes, Taylor Lakeshore - Shelby Serio. Bales, Adilene Barrera, Macey R. Witsell, Jourdan R. Woodard, Jaime L. Massie. N. McKenzie, Jasper L. Stringer, Laurel - Emmarisa Z. Everet, Bates, Susan R. Baudoin, Rachel O. Canesha U. Young. Byram - Mazeigh L. Brown. Karen M. Turnage, Samuel S. Heather N. Williams. Beebe, Jessalyn M. Bisesi, Haylee Prentiss - Larry L. Gary, Clinton - Sabrina R. Lee. Williamson. Leakesville - Daniel L. Hicks. E. Bounds, Kresean Bowens, Jared Mechelle Smith. Carriere - Danny J. Amacker, Gulfport - Gavin T. Helton, Long Beach - Shelly J. Pavolini. I. Bowman, Deawntranee Breland, Purvis - Sara M. Abel, Mia M. Jackie S. Anderson, Bethany A. Ashton R. Hermetz, Cassandra J. Lucedale - Heath T. Barker, Troy D. Brewer, Kimberly D. Bell, Amanda N. Bolin, Sarah Berryman, Joshua M. Blanchet, Hill, Nicholas R. Myers, Sylvia J. Jessica T. Cochran, Mollie R. Fallon, Brewington, Taneequa N. Bridges, Claburn, Brandon L. Crays, Heather Vena V. Bliss, Brandon M. Preston, Lyman H. Tate, Asia M. Ryan J. Hamilton, Kaelen L. Deborah L. Burke, Eunice A. L. Delaney, Candace M. Dement, Bourgeois, Tanner C. Bryan, Thibodeaux. Richardson, Hayden C. Wooten. Burton, Gage S. Butler, Joshua R. Shelby T. Dilmore, Lindsay R. Stephanie R. Carnathan, Dustin Hattiesburg - Mailahn A. Lumberton - James W. Abel, Carlan, Taylor Carlan, Kaitlin A. Dunaway, William H. Eubanks, Toni Castleberry, Alexis B. Cooper, Andrews, Lauren N. Bailey, Karen Samuel Bond, Thomas C. Clark, Cooper, Ashley D. Craft, Melissa J. B. Gamble, Stanford J. Gwin, Carter Maria H. Cooper, Philip B. Cowart, B. Bennett, Krislyn L. Branford, Christian D. Collins, Jamie M. Craft, Mary L. Cross, Mallory R. B. Hankins, Bryant A. Hensleigh, Chelsea L. Dennis, Amanda L. Brittany L. Burch, Ashley M. Burke, Davis, Lindsey R. Davis, Alexas S. Dawsey, Rita M. Dedman, Tammy Michael K. Housley, Andrew Drummond, Joshua M. Fayard, Candice M. Burt, Judy J. Carter, Flurry, Jennifer L. Hession, Ryan H. C. Discon, Hannah D. Dupont, Lacina, David E. Lee, Shonna B. Joshua A. Giametta, Morgan K. Laura E. Cavin, Tim L. Dail, Hightower, Justin W. Kistler, Jeremy DaQuain D. Gilmore, Ceatarrio C. Lee, Tabatha M. Lothian, Samantha Glidewell, Samuel N. Glorioso, Jennifer E. Dews, Brianna D. Dillon, Pena, Alexander B. Reid, Lauren D. Goggins, Irene L. Gonzalez, Ruby M. Meyer, Jerome T. Moffett, Ryan Joseph Grant, Jacob R. Grinder, Molly T. Dirr, Kaitlyn B. Doherty, Smith. K. Graham, Jennifer M. Herrin, K. Payne, Victor Powell, Darcy C. Keegan D. Hawkins, William T. Jennifer Dreager, Aleshia S. Madison - Sarah W. Daniels. Mallorie L. Herrin, Darwyn J. Sellers, Kristin N. Slade, Christina Heck, Hunter B. Holston, Whitney Ducksworth, Charmin† C. Edwards, Magee - Stephen B. Ambrosier, Jo Hilsher, Amanda M. Johnson, N. Spence, Laureen T. Tuck, Emily L. Humphries, Colton S. Jackson, Lauren N. Edwards, Sjhon C. Elliott, Vinson. Courtney M. Johnson, Kaylin M. P. Waits. Felisha Jarrell, Shone M. Johnson, Erin L. Ellzey, Tommy E. Eubanks, McComb - Derrick F. Isaac, Jones, Allison M. Keefer, Stephanie Richland - Jeffery T. Spence. Taylor R. Laterrade, Corey J. Lee, Tamaryia C. Gamble, Tanika L. Lionel D. Tucker. R. Kuhn, Brandon C. Landrum, Richton - Jami A. Dykes, Karen M. Lopez, Victoria E. Martin, Gibson, Ishimine M. Goins, Mimi McLain - Olivia D. Johnson. Sarah E. Long, Toni L. Loomis, Debecca L. Freeman, Kayla N. Gregory A. Mecomber, Sarah C. Grissom, Allison I. Guy, Jamie D. McNeill - Wendy M. Braun, Ashlyn M. Loveless, Joseph A. Freeman, Donna R. Hyatt, Regan B. Mitchell, Shelby L. Mitchell, Hall, Ollie V. Harding, Tiffany L. Walter Williams. Malley, Nicholas S. Martin, Natalie Morris, Holly B. Smith. Bridgett Patterson, Peyton P. Henderson, Janet M. Hinton, Willie Monticello - Cristal P. Bolanos. A. McCormick, Amanda M. Sandy Hook - Hayleigh E. Perreira, Aaron W. Pierce, Lan L. J. Holloway, Jessica R. Holmes, Erin Mt. Olive - Pamela D. Carter, McDaniel, Brandi A. Mixon, McClendon, Karen E. Martin. Pope, Ritchie R. Reed, Rhett J. N. Honeysucker, Jennifer C. Hosely, Terry Magee. Veronica R. Mustian, Austin J. Saucier - Russell W. Clark, Heath Restivo, Ishtar V. Rosario, Carley T. Cameron S. Howard, Stephanie M. New Augusta - Darryl C. Bolton. Oalmann, Kellie E. Pascal, Ladner, Michelle H. Phillips, Scheuermann, Jake R. Howard, Kathryn L. Howell, Assia Ocean Springs - Michael J. Semeecha C. Patrick, Roger D. Whitney L. Smith. Scheuermann, Blair E. Seymour, N. Hyche, Kendria Jackson, Stacey Archbold, Olivia M. Carter, Delaney Petticrew, Ashley M. Pidcoe, Kayla Seminary - Craig Harrison. Christian L. Smith, Mallory N. M. Jackson, Kenneth W. Johnson, J. Gustafson, Gerrad McLaurin, B. Prater, Brittany N. Puckett, Tanya Senatobia - Shannon T. Massey. Smith, Brittney K. Spence, Jordan Dominique D. King, Jermaine A. Sasha M. Stefenko, Katelyn J. D. Raverty, Adam J. Ricouard, Sarah Shannon - Brittany M. Harris. D. Spence, Georgelynn Underwood, Kirk, Benita S. Lang, Jesse V. Lang, Williams. E. Robinson, Ross M. Savoie, Silver Creek - Kirsten L. Ashley, Victoria J. Valliant, Anthony J. Quoc C. Le, Nakia Lindsey, Lauren Olive Branch - John K. Cornish. Jhanne Stasney, Megan A. Stockstill, Jazmin N. Thomas. Williams. P. Link, Zehra E. Livingston, Ovett - Michala G. Dye. Ronda K. Strickland, Samuel E. Soso - Zachary S. Flynt, Jessica N. Centreville - Mallory A. Brianna N. Luckett, Kellie M. Oxford - Moesha Phillips. Talavera, Nicholas A. Thompson, Shows. Knighton. MacNevin, Kelsey B. Martin, Pascagoula - Tracy L. Hadley, Sarah M. Trombley, Victoria G. Summit - Alana Hopkins. Collins - Barbara R. Carroll. Khalya B. McClendon, Tiara Rachel M. Jacobson, Courtney C. Voss, Ashanti D. Wright. Columbia - Lauren A. Brunney, McFarlin, Zyquona McGill, Emily Lechner, Natalie N. Lechner, Adam Poplarville - Amanda K. Allen, n See DEAN’S LIST, page 11 The DRAWL February 2015 • Page 11 NEWS Nursing Honor Society Calendar of events n Friday-Saturday, Feb. 6 and 7 - Mississippi 1379 Showchoir Contest, Brownstone Center n Bingo Night, Shivers Gym, 7 p.m. n Feb. 10 - Mark Twain At Large featuring n March 5 - District Choral Festival, Ron Jewell, Brownstone Center, 11 a.m. and 7 Brownstone Center p.m.; Honors Lecture Series; complimentary n Monday, March 9 - Friday, March 13 - tickets 601 403-1180 Spring break. n Monday-Tuesday, Feb. 16-17 - Mardi Gras n Tuesday, March 17 - PRCC Talent Show, holidays; night classes do not meet Brownstone Center, 7 p.m.; $1 admission with n Thursday, Feb. 19 - Skills USA high school ID competition, 8 a.m.- 2 p.m. n Tuesday, March 24 - Mississippi n Forrest County Center Black History Symphony Orchestra, Brownstone Center, 7:30 Month Program, Multipurpose Center; 10:50 p.m.; reserved seating $20, $15 601 403-1180 a.m.; guest speaker: PRCC alumnus and n Friday, April 3 - Good Friday holiday. Jefferson Davis County supervisor Bobby n Monday, April 6 - Bingo Night, Shivers Rushing Gym, 7 p.m. n Bingo Night, Shivers Gym; 7 p.m. n Thursday and Friday, April 9 and 10 - n Monday, Feb. 23 - Phi Theta Kappa Iota Rumors by Neil Simon, Brownstone Center, 7 Mu induction, Brownstone Center, 6 p.m. p.m.; PRCC theater production, reserved seat- n Movie Night, Shivers Gym, 7 p.m. ing $10 601 403-1180 n Tuesday, Feb. 24 - Guest trumpet recital by n Saturday, April 11 - Rumors by Neil Dr. Chuck Seipp, Brownstone Center, 10:50 Simon, Brownstone Center, 2 p.m.; PRCC the- a.m. ater production, reserved seating $10 601 403- n Forrest County Center Lecture Series, 1180 Multipurpose Room, 10:50 a.m.; speaker: Dr. n Monday, April 13 - Movie Night, Shivers Ryan Ruckel Gym, 7 p.m. n Thursday, Feb. 26 - Career-Technical n Thursday, April 16 - PRCC Symphonic Outstanding students in the Pearl River Community College associate degree nursing pro- Education Student Conference, careeer-tech de- Band Concert, Brownstone Center, 7 p.m.; free partments; 8 a.m.-12 p.m. admission gram were inducted into the Beta Mu chapter of Alpha Delta Nu Honor Society of Nursing n n Dec. 12 at Malone Chapel. They are, front row from left, Tamatha Omelia Brown of Friday-Saturday, Feb. 27 and 28 - PRCC Thursday, April 23 - PRCC Singers Spring Lumberton, Kandise Marie Snider of Diamondhead, Heather Marie Pomes of Picayune, Band Clinic, Brownstone Center Concert, Brownstone Center, 7 p.m.; free ad- n mission Amanda Maria Britt of Carriere, Jordyn Leigh Ladner of Poplarville; back row, Judith Lynn Monday, March 2 - Forrest County Center n Tuesday, April 28 - PRCC JazzCats, The Wells of Picayune, Kaitlyn Amber Dupont of Poplarville, Steven Michael Bracey of Hatties- Legislative Breakfast, Multipurpose Room; Voices and RiverRoad Spring Concert, 7 p.m.; burg, Lisa Deanna Owens of Poplarville and Cassie Mariah Hammond of Tylertown. Not 7:30 a.m. n Tuesday, March 3 - Lunch and Learn with free admission pictured are Kasey Amanda Stockstill and Katherine Elizabeth Whitworth, both of Picayune. Poplarville Area Chamber of Commerce, West n Thursday, April 30 - Lifetime Achievement Dining Room of Olivia Bender Cafeteria, 11:30 Hall of Fame Gala, Southern Oaks House and a.m.; tickets $7 for chamber members, $10 for Gardens, Hattiesburg; 6 p.m. DEAN’S LIST non-members; [email protected] or 601 403- n Thursday, May 14 - Graduation. n FROM page 10 Waynesboro - Pheonia A. Arrington. Sumrall - Samuel E. Bedwell, Brooke A. Wesson - Keefa Nelson. Buras, Derrick D. Cagins, Alyxander N. West Point - Sara A. Hale. ADA Compliance workshop Colson, Cori E. Cook, Gonzalo P. Cordova, Wiggins - Shelby N. Bolling, Jared W. Amanda L. Courtney, Leanne Cuevas, Breazeale, Kelsey A. Fairley, Christy L. Jones Michelle G. Dement, Amanda C. Emerson, Ingram, Travis W. Moore. Korey M. Hathorn, Justine M. Martin, James S. Gordo, Ala. - Destiny L. Sanders. Miller, Lauren R. Moree, Caitlyn N. Nobles, Riverdale, Ga. - Andrew C. Bailey. Patrick D. Smith, Deral D. Watts, Jennifer D. Angie, La. - Shana M. Turnage. Williamson. Bogalusa, La. - Wendy C. Jordan, Trevor Taylorsville - Brody W. Bray, Macy D. Miley. Hegwood. Franklinton, La. - Trenton S. Ball, Edward Tylertown - Christopher B. Baughman, M. Gabler. Bailey Bowman, Kevin B. Jarrell, Katherine E. Iowa, La. - Justin D. Demary. Johnson, Jameson E. Magee. Laplace, La. - Desten D. Brock. Waveland - Ashley L. Ard, Garrett K. Prairieville, La. - Skylar G. Cook. Slidell, La. - Ryleigh N. Collins, Benjamin T. Bourgeois, Desirae O. Green, Denise A. Island, Quick. Klara E. Kersanac, Danielle M. Ladner, Youngsville, La. - Lexxi N. Gautreaux. Katherine N. Lefevre, Shekinah L. Lewis, Memphis, Tenn. - Timothy J. Shaw. Holly A. Peterson. Madison, Wisc. - Darrlyn D. Willis. PRCC will host Transfer Week to help students transfer to a four- year institution. The following universities will be present the last Transfer week in March from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. in Crosby Hall: n Monday, March 23 - William Carey University (WCU) & Week Mississippi College (MC) n Tuesday, March 24 - University of Mississippi (Ole Miss) n Wednesday, March 25 - Mississippi State University (MSU) set in n Thursday, March 26 - University of Southern Mississippi n Friday, March 27 - Delta State University (DSU) Consultant Michael Paravagna makes a point during one of the ADA Compliance work- The purpose of this event is to assist students in making a smooth shop sessions held Jan. 20 and 21 for educators, business people and the public. The March transition from PRCC to a university. Students will be able to com- conference was hosted by the PRCC Honors Institute through a grant from the Lower plete/turn in admissions, financial aid and housing applications. Pearl River Valley Foundation. PRCC Public Relations photo Where can an Ole Miss degree take you? Across the globe. Haley, a former transfer student from Mississippi, is majoring in Mechanical Engineering. Last summer, Haley traveled to Togo, Africa with the group Engineers Without Borders after becoming involved during her fi rst year on campus.

“Ole Miss provides so many unique opportunities for involvement. My experience abroad changed my entire perspective.” —Haley, Mechanical Engineer

#OleMissMatters

Connect with your Transfer Admissions Counselor on Instagram! @OleMissRebels OleMissJasonM @UM_Admissions OleMissLaura @TransferOleMiss OleMissTyler transfer.olemiss.edu February 2015 • Page 12 The DRAWL NEWS Counselors Day at PRCC

Above, The Voices, PRCC’s select vocal ensemble, performed Jan. 23 in Malone Library at White Hall for the high school counselors attending Counselors Day. They are, front row from left, Lydia Howard and Lindsey Strahan, both of Poplarville; Lane Stewart of Sociology Instructor Kira Arthurs lectures her Hancock Center students. Gulfport, Mallory Cumberland of Picayune, Sarah Chatham of Purvis and Bethany Berryman of Carriere; back row, Ethan Martin of Pisgah, Houston McMahon of Purvis, Jacob Cochran of Poplarville, Micah Easterling of Carriere, Robert Perry of Petal and Garrett Bourgeouis of Bay St. Louis. Below, Ernie Lovell, executive director of the Hancock Center news Development Foundation, tells high school counselors how students can apply for schol- arships to PRCC. PRCC Public Relations photos Barnes delivers MLK address On Monday, Jan. 19, the city of Bay St. Louis celebrated Dr. Martin Luther King Day. Upcoming Hancock Center Raymunda Barnes, Assistant Vice President- Hancock Center, served as the keynote speak- spring semester events er. The day started at Velena C. Jones United n Feb. 23-26 - Hancock Center Methodist Church for a service, followed by a Campus Favorites nominations & elec- march to MLK Park. tions Once at MLK Park, Barnes delivered the n March 3 - Hancock Center Lecture keynote speech (The Legacy of a Dream). Series (12-1) Barnes inspired, challenged and encouraged n March 5 - Hancock Spring Fling the youth to believe in the Dream that Dr. King had. Barnes also challenged the young men to Ciroc and Mad Dog 20/20 pull up their britches and for young ladies to The Dream was also built on Service value modesty. The Dream was built on having Faith Here are some excerpts of Barnes’ speech. The Dream is bigger than Hancock County. The Legacy of the Dream The Dream is bigger than you. On the steps of the Lincoln The Dream begins with Service in Memorial on August 28, 1963: our communities. Take time this semester Dr. Martin Luther King delivered Our charge today is to help contin- his “I Have a Dream” speech. ue on the Dream. In that speech, Dr. King charged Wake up and be that Hope. Wake to visit Wellness Center not only the citizens of the United up and have that Faith. States, but he charged all people, to Wale up and join in Service. training session. look beyond the color of someone’s Wake up and Hold to God’s By JAMIE DICKSON skin, to look beyond their socio-eco- Unchanging Hand!! Wake up and Assistant Director of Wellness Center This is especially important for our members who are unfamiliar with the use of exercise nomic status and to look at the con- Serve! Did you know that February is National equipment and general exercise guidelines. A tent of their character to gauge the Barnes Citizens of Bay St. Louis and American Heart Month? training session lasts approximately 30 min- value of a man. Citizens of Waveland, together we Take time this month to be “heart healthy” utes and will provide you with a general exer- Sometimes it appears as if the bloodshed and stand, divided we fall. by learning and understanding your risks for cise program for both cardiorespiratory fitness loss of lives were in vain Let’s unite. Get on one page, clean up this heart disease and stroke. Cardiovascular dis- and strength training. - when I see people in the park selling drugs park, teach our children, and together we can ease is the No. 1 killer of women and men in You can sign-up in person or call 601-403- - when I see people in MLK Park drinking understand the “Legacy of the Dream” the United States. 1340. There is no cost for a training session. Simple habits such as regular blood pressure Don’t forget that the Wellness Center offers Attention all PRCC alumni: screenings, consuming less sodium and exer- a variety of fun-filled group exercise classes. cising can greatly reduce your chance for heart Our classes include Kung Fu, Zumba, Spin, We want to RECONNECT with YOU. We are updating our system and would love for you disease. The PRCC Wellness Center will have Yoga and Pilates. All classes are free with a to take a minute to fill out a short alumni update online form to keep up with college events, information available this month about “Heart- Wellness Center membership. free seminars, athletic events, fine arts performances, reunions, networking and much more. Healthy-Habits.” The Wellness Center is open Monday The online form will take one minute of your day and can help us ensure we keep track of One very important step in preventing heart through Thursday from 6:30 a.m. until 9 p.m., our alumni and their success. You can find the form on Facebook PRCC Alumni-Wildcats. disease is regular physical activity and exer- Fridays 6:30 a.m. until 7 p.m. and Sundays 5 Each week we will choose a random individual from our list to receive a goody packet in the cise. The staff here at the Wellness Center en- p.m. until 8 p.m. We’ll be closed on Feb. 16-17 mail. courages everyone to sign-up for a one-on-one for Mardi Gras.

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Contact us to learn more. The DRAWL February 2015 • Page 13 NEWS Excel by 5 grant PRCC alumni victims of Columbia tornado The tornado that struck Columbia Sumrall is survived by her hus- on Dec. 23 claimed the lives of two band, Shea, and young son, Slade. Pearl River Community College Hudson was chief executive offi- alumni. cer of Hudson Salvage Co. He Amber Owens Sumrall, 33, was came to Pearl River in the fall of killed when she was struck by de- 1960 and talked the cafeteria man- bris from a falling brick wall at ager into letting him serve the ath- Head to Toe where she was a hair letes at their training table, a job stylist. that allowed him to eat with the Mickey Hudson, 71, of Ellisville teams. died Dec. 27 in Foley, Ala., of in- “Mickey has been a promoter of juries he suffered when the tornado Pearl River Community College for struck his car as he traveled through many years and always regarded Above, Amber Columbia. his time at the college as a special Owens Sumrall with Sumrall attended PRCC from time in his life,” said Ernie Lovell, her husband, Shea, 2000 to 2003 and played on the executive director of the PRCC and son, Slade, Lady Wildcat softball team. She Development Foundation. from her Facebook graduated with an associate in ap- He earned a bachelor’s degree page. plied science degree in medical of- from the University of Southern fice technology. Mississippi and was an active sup- Brandi Tynes of Hattiesburg porter of both PRCC and USM as knew Sumrall when both were well as several community and growing up in Marion County. civic organizations. He was induct- Tynes played softball at Columbia ed into the PRCC Lifetime High and Sumrall played at West Achievement Hall of Fame in 2013. Sid Whitley, seated left, chief executive officer of the Lower Pearl River Valley Marion but they played summer Hudson is survived by his wife, Foundation, and Dr. William Lewis, Pearl River Community College president, discuss the ball and at PRCC together. Linda; a son, two daughters, two foundation grant to PRCC for the Excel by 5 resource site. With them are, from left, “She was one of the sweetest step-sons, two step-daughters and Brenda Wells, who represents PRCC on the Poplarville Excel by 5 committee; foundation people ever,” Tynes said. “I don’t 17 grandchildren, including president Clyde Dease and Dr. Carolyn Tedford, Poplarville Excel by 5 certification man- think I ever saw her get upset about PRCC’s assistant soccer coach ager. PRCC Public Relations photo anything.” Brock Zadrozny. Hudson Foundation supports PRCC’s River Rewards program work with Excel by 5 grant A major grant from the Lower Pearl River about six months, will more than double the Valley Foundation will allow Pearl River size of the building. Community College to provide a resource and “The long-term benefits of this grant are referral site for Poplarville’s Excel by 5 pro- going to be tremendous,” said Dr. William gram and The Early Years Network. Lewis, PRCC president. “As this feeds on itself One of the requirements for Poplarville to over the years, you’ll see the benefits in the advance from Excel by 5 Candidate schools. You’ll see the benefits in the families. Community status to Certified Early It will be huge.” Childhood Community status is to have a phys- The goal of the Excel by 5 program is to im- ical location for the program. The $113,500 prove a child’s overall well-being by age 5. The will provide the majority of the funds needed program sets forth a variety of standards in- for the center. volving parent training, community participa- “The foundation’s grant will provide funds to tion, childcare and health to support young modify an existing building located on the children and their families by identifying avail- Pearl River Community College campus to able resources and existing best practices. The house an initiative to provide early learning op- primary goal is to have children ready to learn portunities and resource materials for children when they start school. up through age 5,” said Sid Whitley, chief ex- The Early Childhood Network emphasizes ecutive officer of the foundation. improving quality of care for Mississippi’s The former commercial truck driving class- youngest and most vulnerable population and room building north of the PRCC football sta- increasing school readiness. It provides work- dium will be expanded to house the early child- shops and continuing education units for early hood activities. The project, expected to take care and education providers. Congratulations to Sonya Hunt, Secretary/Schedule and Graduation Clerk to the Vice President for General Education and Technology Services. Her name was randomly se- lected by the computer to receive the monthly River Rewards prize for December, a Honors Institute speaker FujiFilm FinePix digital camera, presented to her by Dr. William Lewis on behalf of the River Rewards Committee. The presentation includes Dr. Jennifer Seal (left), Vice President for Planning and Institutional Research, Candace Harper (second from right), Coordinator of Alumni Services and Foundation Administrative Assistant, and Ernie Lovell, (right), Director of the Development Foundation/Alumni Association, all River Rewards Committee members. Russell joins Board of Trustees POPLARVILLE - The newest member of the al leadership from the University of Southern Pearl River Community College Board of Mississippi. He also has completed the National Trustees attended his first meeting Thursday. Institute for School Leaders through the Will Russell serves on the board by virtue of University of Mississippi. his position as superintendent of education in Russell taught health, physical education and Jefferson Davis County. He was elected last special services for 10 years in Marion County month in a special election. before serving two years as principal “I look forward to serving in a pos- of Bassfield High School. He then itive manner,” Russell said. “I’m was named principal of East Marion very impressed with the campus and Middle School and served four years where the college stands. Pearl River as assistant superintendent in Marion has always had a rich tradition which County. I’m proud to be a part of.” He was recruited to Hazlehurst as Russell came to PRCC on a foot- high school prinicipal under a school ball scholarship in 1988. Before improvement grant and recorded sig- graduating, he was named to play in nificant improvements. the state all-star game. He transferred Following the resignation of to the University of Tulsa where he Jefferson Davis superintendent Ike was named the Ultimate Student Haynes in May and the appointment Dr. Thomas Malone, a member of the PRCC Lifetime Achievement Hall of Fame, talks Russell Athlete in 1991 and later inducted into of John Daley as interim superintend- with students in the Honors Institute on Jan. 22. PRCC Public Relations the university’s Football Hall of Fame. ent, Russell took over for Daley as Bassfield Returning to Mississippi, Russell earned the principal. Russell defeated Daley in the special On-line test numbers up master’s degree in special services at William election to succeed Haynes. Carey University and the master’s in education- He and his wife are the parents of two sons. Mississippi Blood Services

Curlandia Kelly of Mississippi Blood Services in Flowood gets Pearl River Community College student Amber Pineda of Hattiesburg ready to donate blood during a Jan. 21 drive sponsored by Phi Theta Kappa. PRCC Public Students take on-line finals on Dec. 5 at the Curriculum Enhancement Center in Poplarville. Relations photo Record number of students Lunch and Learn sessions set PRCC will host four Lunch and Learn ses- n March 3 - Consumer Trust in Business; using on-line testing services sions in 2015 for people interested in the eco- John O’Hara, CEO of the Better Business nomic and community development of Bureau The Curriculum Enhancement Center (CEC) room. Poplarville and the surrounding area. n June 2 - Mobile Commerce: Mobile at the library hosted proctored on-line testing “Normally we can handle 20 every 30 min- Dr. William Lewis, PRCC president, gave the Phones and Your Business; Lara Bowman, for a record number of students at the end of utes,” Smith said. “Today, we’ve opened it to task of coordinating the Lunch and Learn series Center for Technology Outreach, Mississippi the fall semester. 50 every 30 minutes. We don’t just test for our to Brenda Wells, director of institutional re- State University Extension Service During Dec. 4 and 5, 584 students took final students. It’s everybody.” search, as a collaborative project with the n Sept 1 - Taking a Closer Look at Business exams for on-line classes. The center also ac- The Forrest County Center doubled its on- Poplarville Area Chamber of Commerce and the in Poplarville; Rachel Carter, community and commodated an overflow of 78 students from line testing to 20 every 30 minutes for finals Poplarville mayor and board of aldermen. economic development specialist, MSU the nursing computer lab. and tested 205 students on Dec. 5 alone. Speakers discuss topics that are pertinent to n Nov. 3 - Economic and Workforce The record numbers registered for tests re- The popularity of on-line classes as well as local businesses and residents, usually within Development Trends that Influence Small sulted in closing the CEC to all but students increased use of on-line tutoring and study the context of economic and community devel- Business and Entrepreneurship Growth; Dr. taking tests. guides for traditional classes led to renovation opment. Shannon Campbell, director of Trent Lott “This is the first time we have opened up the of the old learning lab into the CEC several The sessions begin at 11:30 a.m. in the West National Center for Economic Development Curriculum Enhancement Center for the final years ago. Conference Room of Olivia Bender Cafeteria. and Entrepreneurship, University of Southern day of on-line testing,” said Tracy Smith, di- “We started off in a tiny little room with Tickets are $7 for Chamber members and $10 Mississippi. rector of libraries. eight computers,” said library assistant Eileen for non-members. For information or to reserve a seat, contact On-line testing is usually done is a smaller Hall. The 2015 schedule is as follows: Wells at 601 403-1379 or at [email protected]. February 2015 • Page 14 The DRAWL SPORTS Hoffpauir begins fifth season

Josh Hoffpauir is entering Wildcat hitters also posted a .311 bat- his fifth season as head base- ting average with runners in scoring po- ball coach of the Pearl River sition. Community College Wildcats Pearl River pitchers featured a 3.81 after serving three seasons as ERA with 323 strikeouts and held op- assistant head coach under ponents to a .256 batting average former Wildcat mentor, Jamie against. McMahon. The 2013-14 year marked the second In his seven seasons coach- consecutive year, Wildcat baseball was ing at PRCC, 55 Wildcats selected as an All-Academic Team with have furthered their playing a 3.14 team GPA. Hoffpauir careers at universities. Hoffpauir has coached two All-Americans, while seven 2015-16 baseball signees Wildcat standouts have been Parker Dungan LH pitcher Columbia High selected for professional base- Zack Easterbrook LH pitcher Wayne Academy ball during his tenure. Hayden Freeman LH pitcher Poplarville High After a record setting sea- Joseph Gateley infielder Taylorsville High son in 2013, Hoffpauir re- Luke Goodwin catcher-infielder Poplarville High loaded in 2014 earning his 3rd Tyler Kackley LH pitcher Wayne Academy playoff berth in four seasons Nic Kennedy outfielder Southhaven High as head coach of the Wildcats. JC Keys RH pitcher Oak Grove High The Wildcats finished with Peyton Lee RH pitcher-outfielder Picayune a 27-22 mark. Hoffpauir’s ag- Austin Moffett infielder Taylorsville High gressiveness on the base paths Noah Nicaud infielder-outfielder St. Stanislaus continued stealing an impres- Drake Nightengale RH pitcher-infielder Sumrall High sive 135 bases at an 80 per- Eric Saksa RH pitcher-infielder East Central High cent success rate. Jonathan Turner infielder-outfielder McComb Parklane

NO. NAME / CL HT / WT POSITION(S) HOMETOWN / HIGH SCHOOL NO. NAME / CL HT / WT POSITION(S) HOMETOWN / HIGH SCHOOL ======1 RYAN WESSON 19 BLAKE PUGH „ Freshman „ 5-10 / 170 „ OF „ Flowood, MS / Ridgeland „ Freshman „ 6-3 / 210 „ RHP „ Waynesboro, MS / Wayne Academy 2 SETH FARMER 20 KREG GARNER „ Freshman „ 5-9 / 175 „ OF „ Brookhaven, MS / Loyd Star „ Sophomore „ 6-1 / 185 „ C „ Brandon, MS / Northwest Rankin 3 JORDAN MULLIS 21 BROCK ROBERTS „ Sophomore „ 6-3 / 180 „ INF-RHP „ Jacksonville, FL / Baldwin „ Freshman „ 6-1 / 195 „ RHP „ Bogue Chitto, MS / Bogue Chitto 4 TRACY HADLEY, JR. 22 BRODY BRAY

2015-16 Men’s soccer signees „ Sophomore „ 6-0 / 190 „ INF „ Pascagoula, MS / Pascagoula „ Freshman „ 5-11 / 200 „ C „ Taylorsville, MS / Taylorsville 5 DERRICK MOUNT 23 CARLOS LOTT

Noah Pearson Poplarville High School „ Sophomore „ 5-11 / 185 „ INF-RHP „ Saucier, MS / Harrison Central „ Sophomore „ 6-0 / 190 „ RHP „ Pascagoula, MS / Pascagoula Tyler Polderman Picayune High School 6 JACOB TAYLOR 24 REAGAN WEASE „ Sophomore „ 6-3 / 215 „ RHP „ Picayune, MS / Picayune Memorial „ Freshman „ 6-0 / 180 „ RHP „ Saucier, MS / Harrison Central Parker Rose Bay High School 7 JALEN HASKIN 25 JORDAN HAYES

Anthony Hertke George County High School „ Sophomore „ 5-10 / 195 „ INF-OF „ Hattiesburg, MS / Oak Grove „ Freshman „ 6-1 / 230 „ RHP „ Taylorsville, MS / Taylorsville 11 GAGE TEER 27 JOHN CARTER SANNER Kyle Estess West Jones High School „ Freshman „ 6-1 / 205 „ INF „ Brandon, MS / Brandon „ Freshman „ 6-4 / 230 „ RHP „ Hattiesburg, MS / Oak Grove Ben Troutman Ocean Spring High School 12 TAMAZ CONERLY 28 ZACHARY BOONE

Sam Lawson Ocean Spring High School „ Freshman „ 5-10 / 185 „ INF „ Columbia, MS / Columbia „ Freshman „ 6-1 / 210 „ RHP „ Sandy Hook, MS / Columbia 13 LUCAS SCOTT 32 BRANDON BROWN Christian Longnecker Gulfport High School „ Freshman „ 6-0 / 180 „ INF „ Lucedale, MS / George County „ Freshman „ 6-2 / 215 „ LHP „ Boise, ID / Eagle 14 BRANDON HERRERA 33 CARTER HANKINS „ Freshman „ 5-11 / 190 „ INF-OF-RHP „ Slidell, LA / Holy Cross „ Freshman „ 6-3 / 215 „ C „ Purvis, MS / Forrest County AHS 2015-16 Women’s soccer signees 15 CHANDLER RAY 34 GARREN BERRY „ Freshman „ 6-1 / 180 „ OF „ Poplarville, MS / Poplarville „ Sophomore „ 5-11 / 200 „ INF „ Petal, MS / Petal Lauren Lear Pascagoula High 16 CHRISTIAN SMITH 35 TREY GRICE „ Freshman „ 5-7 / 165 „ OF „ Carriere, MS / Pearl River Central „ Sophomore „ 6-1 / 235 „ LHP „ Brooklyn, MS / Forrest County AHS Kelsey Taylor East Central High School 17 ADAM SMITH ======„ Sophomore „ 6-0 / 190 „ OF „ Pascagoula, MS / Pascagoula „lPRESIDENT: Dr. William Lewis. „lATHLETIC DIRECTOR: Jason Francis. Alycia Swchartz Harrison Central High School „lHEAD COACH: Josh Hoffpauir (fifth season, eighth overall). „lASSOCIATE HEAD COACH: Kyle Lindsey. „lSTUDENT ASSISTANT COACH: Kyle Dolan. 18 ALLEN COWART BASEBALL OPERATIONS DIRECTOR: ATHLETIC TRAIN- Jordan Alhgren Long Beach High School „l Keith Stanley. „l „ Sophomore „ 5-9 / 170 „ RHP „ Pascagoula, MS / Pascagoula ERS: Brandy Maulden, Cody Shaw. „lSPORTS INFORMATION: Mitch Deaver.

Prep soccer star Noah Pearson of Poplarville has signed a scholarship with PRCC. Pictured from left: Seated - Dad, Jason Pearson; Noah, and mom, Michele Pearson. Sanding - Jonathan Ray, athletic diretor at Poplarville; Adam Smith, Poplarville soccer coach, and Jon Will, Poplarville High Principal. Soccer honors

Members of the PRCC men’s and women’s soccer teams presented 2014 MACJC and Region 23 championship tro- phies to the PRCC Board of Trustees during the board’s January meeting. Board chairman Dale Purvis accepted the awards. Above, from left, are freshman Lexxi Gautreaux of Lafayette, La., Purvis, women’s coach Jack Byrd, assistant coach Emmaleigh Davis and sophomore Morgan Saucier of Gulfport. Below, from left, are men’s coach Paul Martin, sophomore Ray Wesson III of Gulfport, Purvis, freshman Luke Hicks of Leaksville and assistant coach Brock Zadronzny. The DRAWL February 2015 • Page 15 SPORTS Clark picks Houston Pearl River Community College tight end Rusty Clark has signed with the University

NO. NAME/CL HT POSITION HOMETOWN / HIGH SCHOOL NO. NAME/CL HT POSITION HOMETOWN / HIGH SCHOOL of Houston Cougars. ======Clark verbally committed to 1 WHITNEY SMITH 19 BREANNA HERNDON the Texas school last week. „ Freshman „ 5-6 „ Infielder „ Saucier, MS / West Harrison „ Sophomore „ 5-7 „ Outfielder „ Poplarville, MS / Poplarville Clark, whose other two 2 SHAY ROSSER 20 HANNAH HOLLOWAY Division I football offers were „ Freshman „ 5-4 „ Outfielder „ D’Iberville, MS / D’Iberville „ Sophomore „ 5-7 „ Infielder „ Petal, MS / Petal Florida Atlantic University 5 SHANNON BUEHLER 21 ROKELLE BOOSE and Rutgers University, will „ Sophomore „ 5-6 „ Infielder „ Bay St. Louis, MS / Bay „ Freshman „ 5-2 „ Outfielder „ Gulfport, MS / Gulfport make it official on national 6 SKYLAR COOK 22 BRANDA NORTHROP signing day this week. „ Freshman „ 5-9 „ Pitcher-Infielder „ Prairieville, LA / St. Amant „ Freshman „ 5-3 „ Outfielder „ Poplarville, MS / Poplarville Central Arkansas, Tennessee 7 DANIELLE BARTON 23 MOESHA PHILLIPS -Martin and Nicholls State „ Freshman „ 5-9 „ Pitcher-Infielder „ Saucier, MS / Harrison Central „ Freshman „ 5-6 „ Outfielder „ Oxford, MS / Lafayette County University were also under 11 MARY GRACE KEY 25 BROOKE ROBERTS consideration. „ Freshman „ 5-4 „ Infielder „ Union, MS / Leake Academy „ Sophomore „ 5-8 „ Catcher „ Gonzales, LA / St. Amant The 6-foot-7, 250-pound 15 ALYSSA CRONCICH 31 RACHEL HICKMAN Clark signed with PRCC two „ Freshman „ 5-10 „ Utility „ D’Iberville, MS / D’Iberville „ Sophomore „ 5-7 „ Pitcher „ Poplarville, MS / Poplarville years ago. 16 HANNAH HERNDON 33 BRIANA LEONARD During spring drills in 2014, „ Sophomore „ 5-5 „ Outfielder „ Poplarville, MS / Poplarville „ Freshman „ 5-2 „ Catcher „ Marrero, LA / John Curtis Christian Clark injured his ankle and 17 JAZMIN THOMAS ======had surgery last May. „lPRESIDENT: Dr. William Lewis. „lATHLETIC DIRECTOR: Jason Francis. Clark eventually worked his „ Freshman „ 5-5 „ Infielder „ Monticello, MS / Lawrence County „lHEAD COACH: Leigh White (14th season). „lASSISTANT COACHES: Kim way into a starting role and 18 KATIE DAVIS Boutwell, Kirsten Perry. „lMANAGERS: Charlcey Bradley, Beth Brown, Logan Perniciaro, Brandon Steiner, Courtez Tyler. „lATHLETIC TRAINERS: Brandy helped the Wildcats enjoy Freshman 5-7 Infielder D’Iberville, MS / D’Iberville Maulden, Cody Shaw. „lSPORTS INFORMATION: Mitch Deaver. „ „ „ „ their first winning season in five years. Construction is expected to begin sometime this month The two-year stint at PRCC allowed Clark a second chance on the new softball field house, located next to the to play college football. PRCC Softball Field. The indoor hitting facility, shown Clark also played in the MACJC All-Star game at below, will feature locker rooms and coaches offices. Northeast Mississippi CC in Construction on the 5,000 square-foot facility is expect- Booneville in December. PRCC football standout Rusty Clark. ed to take 60 days. Eight River football players 4 5 6 ink pacts with senior colleges E

D Eight Pearl River Community College foot- head coach David Dean, while Isaac (6-5, 320) ball standouts signed with senior college pro- a McComb native who prepped at McComb grams in December and transferred at the start High, signed with head coach James Spady’s of the 2015 spring semester. Alabama A&M Bulldogs in Normal, Ala. Isaac C Those signing include defensive lineman also participated in the MACJC all-star game. Drew Bailey, defensive back Taron Divens, de- Thomas (6-foot, 220), a Meridian native from fensive lineman Tyrone Dixon, defensive back West Lauderdale High, signed with the Old Jamarl Holloway, offensive lineman Derrick Dominion Monarch squad in Norfolk, Va., B Isaac, linebacker Richard Thomas, linebacker under head coach Bobby Wilder. Thomas Stacy Warren, and wide receiver Austin Watts. A earned All-MACJC honors this past season. Bailey (6-foot-4, 275 pounds) signed with Pascagoula native Warren (6-foot, 210) 4 5 6 head coach Bobby Petrino’s Louisville prepped at Pascagoula High and is headed to the Cardinals in Louisville, Ky., and prepped at Arkansas-Monticello Boll Weevils in Bannaker High School in Atlanta, Ga. Bailey Monticello, Ark., under head coach Hud led the MACJC in quarterback sacks this past Jackson. Warren was named the South season with 9.5. Division’s defensive Most Valuable Player in Divens and Holloway both signed with head Dec. 4’s MACJC all-star game. coach Tom Matukenicz’s Southeast Missouri Watts (6-2, 180), an All-MACJC performer State Redhawk squad in Cape Girardeau, Mo. this past season, signed with the Texas Southern A McComb native, Divens (6-1, 190) prepped Tigers in Houston, Tex., under head coach at McComb High School, while Holloway (6-1, Darrell Asberry. A Sumrall High product, he 180) is a native of Gautier and prepped at was The River’s leading receiver this past sea- Gautier High. Both participated in the MACJC son with 26 catches for a second-best 512 yards PRCC A201 All-Star Football Classic played Dec. 4 at and six touchdowns. He also led the squad in Roof Northeast Mississippi CC in Booneville. scoring with 38 points. November 23, 2014 PRCC Softball Facility Dixon (6-1, 320), who prepped at Eastside Pearl River finished the 2014 season at 5-4 High in Gainesville, Fla., is headed to the overall and 2-4 in the MACJC South Division Valdosta State Blazers in Valdosta, Ga., under under second-year head coach William Jones. The next wave of college and junior college football superstars will sign the dotted line on Wednesday, Feb. 4, with several members of the class holding out to make their decisions until the last minute. White enters 13th season The Leigh White era of Pearl River Community College softball has seen 12 seasons of prosperity since the Quitman native took the head coaching job in 2003. White, who boasts a 269-213 overall win-loss record, routinely guides her teams to the MACJC and Region 23 tournaments. A year ago, the Lady Wildcats fin- ished the seaon 28-20. In 2010, White White guided The River to its first-ever MACJC state championship. Her 2011, Her 2014 team fin- 2012, 2013 and 2014 teams were also ished third in the state and regional qualifiers. postseason events. 2015-16 Softball signees Tristan Wheat Poplarville High Shortstop-infielder Drew Smith Poplarville High Catcher-infielder Amanda Ingram Millbrook AL Pitcher-infielder Reilly Bunnell Purvis High Outfielder Kasey McRaney Purvis High Middle infielder Toree Clifton Perry Central Middle infielder Jackie Shows West Harrison Pitcher-outfielder Kristen Martin Oak Grove Middle infielder Katie Perry Sumrall Outfielder Deanna Delancey Vancleave High Catcher

Tickets may be purchased online at SouthernMissTickets.com using the Promo Code: JUCO Or present your School ID in order to take advantage of this offer! Limit of 4 tickets per ID. February 2015 • Page 16 The DRAWL SPORTS Basketball season Men off to hot start; ladies’ record 6-8 Pearl River Community Lady Wildcats 33-26 to take Powell of South Pike High, College split with Southwest the nine-point victory. two each, and Ka’Nosha Mississippi in women’s and Essence Pulliam of Forest Fairley of Pascagoula one. men’s MACJC South Division Hill High led PRCC with 10 Southwest finished with basketball action Jan. 29 in points (six rebounds), while three players in double digits Summit with the Lady Tamera Williams of Hinds with Talisha Sherman leading Wildcats falling 52-43, while AHS added eight, Shaniqua the way with 15 points, while the 19th-ranked Wildcats were Magee of Collins High (five Gabriella Cortez scored 12, 67-63 winners. rebounds) and Vamikka Smith Cortney Epting 10. The River’s women dropped of Murphy (Ala.) High (six re- Pearl River was 12 of 20 (60 to 6-8 overall and 3-5 in divi- bounds), six each, Jasmine percent) at the foul line to sion play, while its men im- Nettles of Pascagoula High Southwest’s 12-of-22 (54.5 proved to 15-2 and 6-2. (five rebounds) and Asia percent). In the women’s game, the Thibodeaux of West Harrison PRCC shot a dismal 25.9 host Lady Bears led 19-17 at High, four each, Iesha Dixon (15 of 58) percent from the the break before outscoring the of Hinds AHS and Akayla field. In the men’s game, the MACJC BASKETBALL STANDINGS Wildcats led 32-24 at the inter- NORTH DIVISION / WOMEN mission before the Bears an- DIVISION OVERALL swered with a 39-35 advan- TEAM W-L WIN % W-L WIN % ITAWAMBA 7-0 100.0 16-2 88.9 tage in the second half only to fall by four. NORTHWEST MISS. 5-2 71.4 15-3 83.3 Darral Willis of Madison EAST MISSISSIPPI 4-3 57.1 8-9 47.1 Memorial (Wis.) led Pearl NORTHEAST MISS. 3-4 42.9 9-9 50.0 River with a game-high 19 HOLMES 3-4 42.9 12-6 66.7 points, while Cortez Mitchell MISSISSIPPI DELTA 2-4 33.3 5-11 31.3 of Callaway High added 17 COAHOMA 0-7 00.0 2-15 11.8 (eight rebounds), Laderrick SOUTH DIVISION / WOMEN Scott of Forest High 11 (eight DIVISION OVERALL rebounds), John Cornish of TEAM W-L WIN % W-L WIN % Olive Branch eight, Malik COPIAH-LINCOLN 8-0 100.0 17-0 100.0 Clements of Madison West EAST CENTRAL 6-2 75.0 15-2 88.2 (Wis.) seven, and Dontellius JONES COUNTY 6-2 75.0 12-4 75.0 Ross of Callaway High three. MERIDIAN 5-3 62.5 12-6 66.7 Xavion Dillon paced SMCC SOUTHWEST MISS. 4-4 50.0 8-9 47.1 with 18 points. PEARL RIVER 2-6 25.0 6-8 42.9 Pearl River was 12 of 17 MISS. GULF COAST 1-7 12.5 4-9 30.8 (70.6 percent) at the foul line HINDS 0-8 00.0 2-15 11.8 to Southwest’s equally-im- pressive 12-of-24 (78.6 per- Above, freshman Darrlyn Willis (21) of Madison, Wis., leaps high for this shot under the NORTH DIVISION / MEN DIVISION OVERALL cent) effort, while PRCC was basket. Below, freshman Kyaris Body (11) of Jackson makes a move for the basketball. TEAM W-L WIN % W-L WIN % a season-high 64.3 percent (27 Photos by Mitch Deaver. HOLMES 6-1 85.7 13-5 72.2 of 42) from the field to EAST MISSISSIPPI 6-1 85.7 13-4 76.5 SMCC’s paultry 38.7 percent MISSISSIPPI DELTA 4-2 66.7 8-8 50.0 effort (24 of 62). NORTHEAST MISS. 4-3 57.1 12-6 66.7 PRCC defeated Southwest NORTHWEST MISS. 2-5 28.6 8-8 50.0 81-69 earlier this season. ITAWAMBA 2-5 28.6 6-12 33.3 COAHOMA 0-7 00.0 1-16 05.9 SOUTH DIVISION / MEN Upcoming games DIVISION OVERALL Feb. 9 - hosts Jones JC TEAM W-L WIN % W-L WIN % Feb. 12 JONES COUNTY 7-1 87.5 14-1 93.3 - hosts Miss. Gulf Coast PEARL RIVER 6-2 75.0 15-2 88.2 Feb. 16 - at East Central MISS. GULF COAST 5-3 62.5 10-7 58.8 Feb. 19 - at Meridian EAST CENTRAL 4-4 50.0 9-8 52.9 Feb. 23-26 - MACJC SOUTHWEST MISS. 3-5 37.5 6-10 37.5 Tournament (home of South HINDS 3-5 37.5 8-9 47.1 Division women’s champ). COPIAH-LINCOLN 3-5 37.5 5-12 29.4 March 4-7 - Region 23 MERIDIAN 1-7 12.5 7-9 43.8 Tournament (Clinton)

PRCC coaches Richard Mathis (left) and Toby Bush work the sidelines during home bas- ketball action this season in White Colseum. Mathis is in his 23rd season as the men’s coach. Bush is in his seventh season as the women’s coach. Photos by Mitch Deaver. ComingSpring2015 Above, Jasmine Nettles (10) The long-awaited story of legendary football coach, of Pascagoula moves the T. D. “Dobie” Holden, has now become a book. basketball up the court. Left, Asia Thibodeaux (31) of Saucier and right, Akayla Powell (20) of South Pike, both freshmen, control the basketball while Essence Pulliam (30, below), a soph- omore from Jackson, fires off a pass. Photos by Mitch Deaver

His life story embodied the spirit of his native land in Pearl River County, MS. He became a legend as the most successful junior college coach of his era. He left a legacy of transforming ordinary boys into men who became winners on the field and in life.

View unpublished photos of Coach Holden. Read excerpts from the book. Share your own stories about Coach Holden, PRCC, or the Pearl River area at: www.spiritofthepearl.wordpress.com.