SMCC's Stage Band Show

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[email protected] URR April 21, 2017 Serving SMCC Since 1940 Volume 72, No. 7 Campus Events P B PTK Friday, April 28 JAN15: Classes end Last day to drop Catalyst

Saturday, April 29 By Cody Pol, editor Baseball Game Northeast Mississippi Officers from the Omicron CC 1:00- Home Delta chapter of Phi Theta Kappa traveled to Nashville, Tennessee, Monday, May 1 to attend the 2017 International Day Classes end Convention, Catalyst. The con- QQ: Classes end for vention aimed to spark a change 2nd Term On-Campus in the students, prompting them Accelerated to hone their leadership skills and Wesley Foundation make a difference in the world Pancake Study Break around them. Socializing with 6:30pm other Phi Theta Kappa members was a large part of the event, and Tuesday, May 2 the officers made many connec- FINAL EXAMS tions with students from across 8:00-10:00 1 MWF the country and, in some 10:15-12:15 4 MWF instances, across the world. 1:00-3:00 B TR The trip began with the first 3:15-5:15 6 MW general session. Dr. Jennifer Arnold of TLC’s The Little Wednesday, May 3 Couple spoke at the event about FINAL EXAMS “Thinking Big,” an acronym she 8:00-10:00 5 MW developed that underlined her 10:15-12:15 C TR philosophy on life and leader- 1:00-3:00 2 MWF ship. Her inspiring story of how 3:15-5:15 E TR she decided to become a physi- Baseball Game Hinds cian resonated with all who CC 3:00- Home attended. Undergoing countless surgeries in her childhood as a Thursday, May 4 result of her condition catalyzed FINAL EXAMS her desire to pursue a career in 8:00-10:00 A TR medicine. 10:15-12:15 3 MWF Anna Catherine Trantham sings “Ain’t No Sunshine.” photo by Chuck Barnes Exploring downtown 1:00-3:00 D TR Nashville was a pleasure. The Residence Halls close officer team roamed the streets of at 5:00pm the city, appropriately known as, “Music City.” Weaving through Friday, May 5 SMCC’s Stage Band the lively crowd and taking in the MAR08: Ends sights and smells of Tennessee’s APR04: Ends capitol was a sight to behold. Final Grades due They took in the history of the 11:00AM Ryman Auditorium, a building Show “thrills” fans that was once a church but Saturday, May 6 became known as the “Mother Baseball Game East By Jonathan Scott, Church of Country Music” staff writer Mississippi CC 2:00- because of the fact that it housed Home the Grand Ole Opry for decades. On Friday, April 7th, the SMCC Stage Band took to the stage for Crossing city blocks to the their Spring Show. It was a night full of enjoyable music, singing, and Monday, May 8 Cumberland River, those on the dancing. Under the direction of Clay Whittington, the band performed Career-Tech practice trip strolled across the famous a variety of songs. The show opened with the song “Can’t Stop the 9:00 AM pedestrian bridge. From the Feeling” from the film Trolls, led by Evan Busbin and the stage band MAY03: Begins & highest point of the structure, singers. The show continued with the band’s groovy instrumental ren- Last day to register they witnessed an enchanting dition of “Vehicle,” before the singers returned to the stage to join then Academic Practice view of the city’s unmistakable in the foot-stomping, hard-hitting “The House is Rockin.’ ” 10:15 AM skyline, namely the AT&T build- Playing assorted genres and musical styles, including rock, funk, ADN practice 11:30 ing. Nashville was an unforget- jazz, and more, the Stage Band, along with the singers and dancers, AM table city, and it was the perfect took the audience on a musical time machine. A major highlight of this Tuesday, May 9 host for Catalyst due to its storied journey through time included the Disco Medley, which featured sev- ADN graduation 11:00 history of nurturing an entirely eral disco-era hits. The medley featured “Stayin’ Alive,” “Disco AM American genre of music. Inferno,” “It’s Raining Men,” “Celebration,” and concluded with Career-Tech Platon, a world-renowned pho- “Turn the Beat Around.” After the Disco Medley, the Stage Band graduation 3:00pm tographer, was the speaker at the jumped into the next decade for a nostalgic ‘80’s medley. In this med- second general session of ley, the show paid homage to the Golden Age of MTV with classic Wednesday, May 10 Catalyst. During his speech, he ‘80’s hits. Emma Walls began the medley with “Material Girl,” and Academic Graduation displayed a slideshow of the other hits followed. Tate Allen performed “Simply Irresistible,” Loryn 3:00pm many world leaders he had the Hollis performed “Smooth Criminal” and “Rhythm Nation,” Anna opportunity to photograph. As he Catherine Trantham performed “Jump,” Evan Busbin performed Friday, May 12 presented a portrait of Vladimir “Jessie’s Girl,” and Busbin and Clare Clark performed “I’ve Had the Last day for 9 month Putin, he narrated the story of Time of My Life.” These songs featured not only soloists, but also faculty him being escorted by Putin’s backup singers and energetic dance numbers. The show was comprised bodyguards, blindfolded and held of a duet, “Unforgettable,” sung by Michael Wilson and Erika Alford, Sunday, May 14 at gunpoint. They took him to an and several solos. Among them were timeless songs like “Ain’t No Mother’s day isolated bunker, where Putin was Sunshine” and “I Will Always Love You.” waiting. The Russian leader Many moments were favored especially by the audience. One of Monday, May 29 rarely posed for portraits, so it them was the song “Sharp Dressed Man,” sang by Gary Busby featur- Memorial Day was a big deal that Platon was ing a phenomenal guitar solo by Israel Coleman. The finale of the show Administrative offices allowed to photograph the man. was Michael Jackson’s “Thriller,” performed by Erika Alford and com- closed Comically, they bonded over pleted with the zombie-esque choreography of the dancers. The show their love for the Beatles. Platon took place in the Fine Arts building from Friday night to Sunday after- Tuesday, May 30 went on to tell the crowd about noon and represented the culmination of all the hard work the musi- Evening Classes begin and the many other world leaders he cians, singers, and dancers put into it. In addition to the Stage Band, the last day to receive 100% had photographed, including show displayed the talents of the Brass Machine, which played Green refund Muammar Gadafi, former Day’s “Basket Case,” and the Steel Pan Band, which played “The JUN08: Classes begin and last President Bill Clinton, and Bee’s Melody.” day to register Muhammad Ali. Director of bands, Clay Whittington, helped prepare the band and The final speaker of the con- pieced together the musical aspects of the show, while Brandy White Wednesday, May 31 vention was Jamie Hyneman, co- assisted the vocalists, and Laci Godbold taught choreography. The Evening late registration host of the television series, totality of the show was a group effort that paid off in what was per- w/late fee begins Mythbusters. Hyneman partici- haps the greatest Spring Stage Band Show yet. JUN08: Last day for 50% Sami Simmons sings the “80’s Medley” as she dances on stage. photo by Chuck Barnes pated in a question-and-answer refund session in which he answered Last day for 10-month faculty both prepared questions and questions from convention atten- Thursday, June 1 dees. He debunked some of the Students may begin the myths surrounding Mythbusters, payment of fees for B and fall explaining why and how the show was produced and what he Friday, June 2 learned from the experience. A: Fees due and last day for Hyneman, a special effects 100% refund expert, showed a film reel of the dozens of explosions he had Tuesday, June 6 encountered over the duration of A: Classes begin and late the series, and he left the audi- registration w/late fee ence with a word of advice on working with others and leading by example. Catalyst was a great success, and all who attend- Index ed took away life lessons and newly-kindled relationships. Editorial...... 2 Southwest represented itself well Sports...... 5 with college president Dr. Steve Cartoons...... 7 Bishop receiving the Shirley B. Gordon Award of Distinction Ads...... 8 Kayla McKenzie, Loryn Hollis, Anna Catherine Trantham, Haley Simmons, Shakeya Nobles, Brianna King, Jessi Barnes and Brooke Wells dance to “Thriller.” photo by Chuck Barnes based upon his support of the Omicron Delta chapter. April 21, 2017 2 Editorial The Pine Burr Words from the SGA Treasurer Editor...... Cody Pol Co-Editors...... Jordan Boyd, Dear Fellow Students, Kimi Jeanson, Brooke Smith Staff Writers...... Spencer Bonds, Caleb Byrd, This year is quickly coming to a close, and I have enjoyed every moment of the journey. From hosting coming back parties to planning for Bear Necessities Day, the Student Government Association has worked tirelessly to ensure an Devin Chadwick, Cody Gisclair, Garret Graves, enthralling student experience. I am grateful to have had the opportunity to serve as your Student Body Treasurer. The Shalisa Hawthorne, Scott Johnson, Hannah experience has served me well, and I am taking away multiple life lessons as I graduate. Karabelen, Reggie Martin, Emily Phillips, David I would like to congratulate the new Student Government Association Officers: Alexcia Carr, President; Brooke Smith, Vice-President; Jaime Lowe, Secretary; and Jonathan Scott, Treasurer. I know they will do an excellent job of Russell, Fernando Salgado, Jonathan Scott, serving the student body, and I wish them the best of luck as they navigate their second year at this great institution. Amber Terrell, Michael Wilson Keep in mind that they are there to speak on your behalf, so do not hesitate to come to them with any questions, sugges- Cody Pol Advisor...... Joyce Mabry tions, or concerns you might have. As I come closer to graduation, I am realizing just how much of an impact Southwest has made on me. I came here unsure as to how I would navigate the social aspect of college, but I have forged lasting friendships that I hope to carry on with me. Joining many of the numerous campus organizations has allowed me to become a better leader and make the most of my community college experience; I encourage you The Pine Burr is published monthly during to do the same. Becoming a member of an organization on campus will undoubtedly enhance your college experience, and who knows, you regular academic sessions. Views expressed in might make a new friend or two. I wish you all a great summer, and remember to always put your best foot forward and respect others by the newspaper are not necessarily those of the treating them with kindness. faculty and administration. Writers express themselves under their by-lines. Proud to be a BEAR! Offices are located in Kenna Hall, Room 29; With gratitude, the telephone number is 276-3843. The staff Cody Pol, SGA Student Body Treasurer invites readers to submit opinion columns and letters to the editor. Pine Burr, Kenna Hall, Summit, MS 39666.

E-mail: [email protected] Editorial: persistence is key Southwest Mississippi Community College does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, sex, religion, or disability in its programs, activities or employ- ment practices. The following persons have been designated to handle inquiries and griev- Editorial I greatly appreciate the oppor- and it is strongly advised that you If I can leave you with a few ances regarding the non-discrimination policies: Rhonda Gibson, Director of Disability By Cody tunity of serving as the editor of study diligently and pay close words of advice from someone Pol, Support Services, 601-276-3885; Dr. Bill Ashley, Vice President of Student Affairs and the Pine Burr. Keeping up with attention in class in order to ace who has been there and done that Title IX Coordinator and Director of Athletics, 601-276-3717, 1156 College Dr., Summit, Editor MS 39666. campus news and proofing arti- the final examinations; they often a time or two, I encourage you to cles can be a slight challenge at comprise a large percentage of get involved with as many cam- times when I am busy, but the your final grade. pus activities and organizations as experience has sharpened my Yearbooks are in! The time permits. You will undoubt- editing skills and time manage- Whispering Pines staff was busy edly make new friends and devel- ment. Also, I am definitely a all year capturing memories and op skills that you can use in other much faster typer than your aver- preserving them in print. You can aspects of your life. Being a Cody Pol age Joe as a result of my tenure as pick yours up in the boardroom of member of the organizations It seems as if the year is com- editor. Much more work goes the administration building. Just allows you to stay “in the know;” ing to a close. My experience at into publishing a monthly news- sign the form, and the free year- who does not like to know things Southwest has transformed me in paper than many know, so show book is yours! QR codes are scat- before others? In addition to that many significant ways. Over the your appreciation of the newspa- tered throughout the publication, benefit, scholarship committees course of the past two years, I per staff and pick up a copy of the so download a QR scanner app take campus and community Quote of the Month have grown as a person, leader, Pine Burr. They are free, and it and you can view the many involvement as seriously as good “When one door of happiness and student. I have forged lasting gives insight as to what is going videos captured throughout the grades. I hope you all have a friendships and made connections on around campus. Also, there year. Since 2013, the yearbook relaxing and productive summer! closes, another opens, but often we that I will carry with me through- might be a picture of you in it! has won first place in the state Stay safe, wear sunscreen, and look so long at the closed door that out the rest of my academic Keep in mind that finals are three times, which is an enormous remember to never stop learning! career. approaching as rapidly as ever, feat. we do not see the one that has been opened for us.” -Helen Keller Year in review:Southwest excels under leadership of Dr. Bishop

By Cody Pol, campus was an ongoing effort, Growing support from the SMCC Gordon Award of Distinction, Editor with the goal being to maintain Foundation and Alumni Bishop attended the annual the many beautiful buildings and Association created new opportu- Catalyst convention in Nashville, Carrying on his record of landscapes. Through the campus nities, and the Bear Backer Club, Tennessee, to accept the honor. excellence in all facets of leader- beautification project, the cam- the athletic fundraising branch of The Shirley B. Gordon award rec- ship, Dr. Steve Bishop continued pus’s exceptional beauty shone. the SMCC Foundation, continued ognized college presidents and as a driving force of projects on E-books were a major change to flourish. chief executive officers who were campus. The college once again in the realm of instruction. Additional projects included nominated by their campus’s Phi proved itself unstoppable when Adopting the new technology the addition of a new football vis- Theta Kappa chapters, based BestColleges.com ranked the allowed instructors and students itors’ press box and a protective upon their outstanding support of institution as the number one to access the latest textbooks with structure for the institution’s the international organization. community college in the state. the most up-to-date information; maintenance fleet, which was With continued involvement in Factors such as academic out- furthermore, the electronic books built by students in the Carpentry the community, Dr. Bishop con- comes and affordability influ- cut back on paper waste and program. Building upon campus tinued to represent Southwest on enced the ranking. In his sixth saved students and the college safety was an item of particular many state and local boards. He year as college president, Bishop copious funds. With Dr. Bishop’s interest; additional security cam- continued to serve as a chairman commissioned multiple projects support, Phi Theta Kappa attend- eras were installed around cam- of the state Community College that were aimed to open the cam- ed regional, state, and interna- pus, and campus police gained a Athletic Committee. pus facilities for use among mem- tional meetings, ranking in the new patrol vehicle. In conjunc- Additionally, he remained active bers of the community, and he top tiers at each. The Student tion with the improved infrastruc- in the McComb Rotary Club. Dr. also oversaw programs that great- Success Center continued to help ture, bike racks were installed Bishop’s contributions to ly enhanced student life. students achieve academic suc- around campus in order to Southwest Mississippi A major highlight of the year cess. accommodate the influx of bicy- Community College furthered the was the construction of the new Student activities were plenti- clists. institution’s goals and graduated Alford-Conerly men’s dormitory. ful. Organizations achieved Dr. Bishop was recognized for students who would go on to The modern $6.5 million com- ample success throughout the his multitudinous achievements become contributing members of plex was equipped with state-of- year. The athletic teams, band, on numerous occasions. Selected the community or continue their BEAR AWARE the-art technology and the utmost choir, student publications, and as a recipient of Phi Theta education at a university. of comforts. Maintenance around cheerleaders proved unstoppable. Kappa’s prestigious Shirley B.

In order to effectively communicate emergency information to SMCC employees and students, SMCC has implemented a rapid alert and notification system developed by SchoolCast. BearAware is a Southwest announces service that allows employees and students of SMCC to receive alerts, news, or other emergency information via text, email, or by phone. Participation in Bear Aware is not mandatory but encouraged. At this time, the only information entered into the SchoolCast database is the speakers for graduations student's "smcc.edu" email address. of Notre Dame, where he earned Please read the following because our procedures for handling Bear a degree in American Studies. He Aware have changed. An email has been sent to all current students, was hired as a reporter by the faculty, and staff with their login information for Bear Aware. Enterprise-Journal ten days prior Students, faculty, and staff no longer need to request this information to graduation. by emailing [email protected]. “I’ve been at the paper ever since,” said Ryan. At the end of May, he will have spent thirty- Dear Students, four years at the publication. He became managing editor in You should have received an email with your Bear Aware Login charge of the news and sports Information on August 31, 2016. An additional email will be sent to departments in 1990, and in 2001, your email account at 9:00 AM this morning (September 26, 2016) he became editor and publisher. with your login information. It’s basically the same email that was Ryan is married to the former Ann Bufkin Colonel Philip Parker Jack Ryan sent on August 31, 2016. If you have already logged in and set up Mary Ann Smylie, a native of your account, no additional action is required on your part. We will be Amite County. He has three chil- Southwest Mississippi School in 1984. He holds an sending more of these login information emails on the 20th of each ing, and flight nursing/adult, dren, all of whom are in their Community College’s graduation Associate’s degree from month this semester to encourage participation in the system. pediatric, and neonatal rotor wing twenties. One lives in Houston, Southwest Mississippi ceremonies are scheduled for the and fixed wing transport. Texas; another in Starkville, and following: A.D.N., May 9, 2017, Community College, a Again, if you have already set up your account, no action is Bufkin graduated from the other will graduate from the at 11:00 with speaker Ann Bachelor’s of Arts degree in required on your part. We do recommend logging in to Bear Aware at Louisiana State University University of Mississippi in May. Bufkin; Career-Technical, May 9, Business Administration from the least once a month and verifying the accuracy of your information. School of Law in 1996. She is His proudest accomplishment University of Mississippi, and a 2017, at 3:00 with Colonel Philip licensed to practice law in as editor of the Enterprise- Parker; Academic, May 10, 2017, Master’s degree in Strategic Please read the login information email in its entirety. It will Mississippi and Louisiana, where Journal is the fact that the news- at 3:00 with Jack Ryan. Studies from the United States explain why your password may be represented by asterisks (*) and she is currently a solo practitioner paper has remained relevant by Ann Bufkin, RN, BSN, JD, is Army War College. He is mar- what to do if you cannot log in or if you forgot your password. with an emphasis on medical reporting the news on many dif- ried to the former Carol Slaton, a Walthall County native. She malpractice. ferent platforms-through the studied pre-nursing at Southwest and they have two children: If you have any questions, send them to [email protected] from Colonel Philip Parker is the physical paper, various magazine Mississippi Community College, Chandler MacDonald of your SMCC email account. We cannot communicate about Bear Chief of Staff for the Mississippi products, and online. Unlike receiving her Associate’s Degree Nashville, Tennessee, and Slaton Aware accounts from other personal or business email accounts you Army National Guard. He has many papers, those at the in 1977. In 1979, she received Parker. may have. You do not have to contact [email protected] for your over thirty years of service and Enterprise-Journal have not her Bachelor’s Degree in Nursing Jack Ryan, Editor and login information unless you don’t get a login information email. two combat deployments to Iraq repeatedly reduced the number of Publisher of the McComb from the Ole Miss School of with the 155th Armor Brigade people in the newsroom, believ- Enterprise-Journal, grew up in Nursing. Her nursing career has Combat Team. Colonel Parker is ing that a community institution the New Orleans area. In 1983, included a focus on critical care a lifelong resident of Summit. He willing to invest in the market for he graduated from the University nursing, emergency room nurs- graduated from McComb High local information can be reason- April 21, 2017 3 News Welch: SMCC and Millsaps join forces Local new color: A assistant day with football Truman By David Russell, coach staff writer By Michael Gunnell, Sports Information Director It was late morning when my dog and I finally left the house. Derek Welch is in his first year We climbed into the car and as an assistant football coach for headed off to Percy Quinn State the Bears. He is in charge of the Park. Truman, my dog, was sit- defensive backs. ting in my lap with his head out A native of Taylorsville, MS, the window enjoying the breeze. Welch comes to Southwest from We pulled into the parking lot East Central Community College and headed for the trail. This was where he spent the past two sea- my first time bringing Truman sons coaching the linebackers. along with me to go on the trail. A two-year member of the “Let’s take the trail to the right,” Jones County Junior College I said to him as he looked to me football team (2007-08), Welch for direction. The trails were helped lead the team to the state slightly muddy at points, as it had championship his freshman year, recently rained. “Do not eat leading the team with seven Pictured above are SMCC President Dr. Steve Bishop and Millsaps College President Dr. Robert W. Pearigen. that!” I snapped as I noticed Truman starting to lick a mush- interceptions. He was named tionship with Millsaps for many years. This agreement solidifies Southwest Mississippi Community College and Millsaps College room. We wound down trail after First Team All-State while play- Millsap’s commitment to the transfer student. Through the years, have joined forces to make it easier for SMCC students to transfer their trail, taking our time and enjoying both wide receiver and cor- Southwest has had numerous graduates successfully transfer to credits to the Millsaps campus in Jackson. The agreement outlines ing all the beauty that nature had nerback. Millsaps, and we look forward to this renewed partnership” coursework that aligns with curriculum followed by students at to show us. We stopped and Following his juco career, SMCC currently has articulation agreements with Mississippi’s eight Millsaps. SMCC students who wish to transfer to the four-year institu- talked to anyone we came across Welch spent two seasons (2009- public universities and colleges and can now add Millsaps to that list. tion that offers 33 majors and 47 minor fields of study can plan their on the trail. The people we 10) playing at the University of Having these articulation agreements makes it easier for SMCC stu- coursework accordingly. The agreement was recently signed by SMCC encountered were all very friend- Tennessee-Martin. At UTM, dents to earn a bachelor’s degree at those institutions. In addition to the President Dr. Steve Bishop and Millsaps College President Dr. Robert ly and loved petting Truman; I Welch helped lead the Skyhawks agreement signed with SMCC, Millsaps College also signed identical W. Pearigen. “Partnering with Millsaps allows our students more could tell Truman loved it as to a 16-9 record. As a senior, he agreements with the remaining 14 community and junior colleges in opportunities to seamlessly advance their future educational goals at a well. and his defensive teammates led Mississippi the Ohio Valley Conference in four-year institution,” Bishop said. “Southwest has had a positive rela- Once Truman and I reached total defense, passing defense, the end of the trail, we still had to passing efficiency defense and walk around the lake to get back first/third down defense while to the car. We started down the being ranked fifth in nationally in Pol named Lyceum Scholar road toward the cabins, which are total defense. usually empty. As we began get- Welch graduated from UT- ting closer to the cabins, I noticed Martin in 2012 with a bachelor’s Cody Pol of Summit was recently named a 2017 Lyceum scholarship an usual amount of traffic. There degree in Health and Human recipient by the University of Mississippi. The Lyceum scholarship is were dozens of cars driving up to Performance: Sports a highly-competitive transfer scholarship that requires the recipient to the cabins. Trying to make sure Management. have an outstanding record of academics, leadership, and service. Full Truman was not hit by a car, we He began his coaching career tuition for two years is covered by the award. In addition to the Lyceum moved off into the grass a little as a student assistant strength and scholarship, membership in the Chancellor’s Leadership Class is way from the road. I walked up conditioning coach at UT-Martin included. Membership in the class earns the student an additional to a man who had just gotten out (2011-12) and followed that with $1,000 scholarship. of his truck and asked, “Are you a stint as an offensive assistant at Ole Miss also awarded Pol with an $8,000 Phi Theta Kappa scholar- all having some kind of retreat?” the University of Southern ship. As a result of him earning a 3.96 GPA, he also received an addi- He smiled and replied while pet- Arkansas (2012-13), coaching tional $8,000. Serving as the Phi Theta Kappa president resulted in ting Truman, “We are all from wide receivers for an offense that another $2,000. Membership in the All-Mississippi Academic Team Oak Forrest Middle School, and ranked second in the Great garnered $1,000 from the University. Pol also earned other scholar- we are bringing our kids’ class American Conference in total ships. He received $1,000 for being placed on the First Team of the All- out here to go camping for the offense and fifth nationally with Mississippi Academic Team. Another $1,250 scholarship is due in the night.” “That sounds like a great 497.6 yards per game. fall semester. He is extremely grateful for the awards. The assistance time,” I replied. We said our Welch then spent 2013-14 as will allow him to graduate with his Bachelor’s degree debt-free, and he goodbyes and continued on our defensive coordinator at Kemper can attend medical school without the burden of accumulating student way. County High School before debt. He credits Southwest with molding him to become an exception- Now that we were through the spending 2014-15 as Assistant al leader, and if he had not attended the college, he knows that none of woods and walking along the Defensive Backs Coach at Cody Pol this would be possible. lake, we met even more people. Northwestern State University. They were mostly anglers, but He then moved on to East Central also families out enjoying their before heading to Summit. spring break. Everyone loved Welch prepped at Taylorsville Truman, and I enjoyed hearing High School in MS, where he from the anglers how the fishing was a four-year letter player in was going since the lake football, basketball and track. reopened. A little further on was Welch still holds the touchdown the RV campground. Everyone record at Taylorsville (28) which was out cooking on his or her he captured his senior season. grill or roasting hotdogs over the Welch was also an all-state fires, as it was now right about receiver his junior and senior lunchtime. The smells made season. Welch and his wife, Truman and me start remember- Rachel, have a daughter, Ry ing that we had not eaten that day. We made our way through the campground, talking to people as we went. An RV camp- Tri-Beta ground is a place where one can find almost any type of person. By Cody Pol, From families to young couples, Editor Collegiate DECA award winners: Jasmine Pearson, Cassidy Brecheen, Deanna Martin, advisor, and Madison Martin all the way to the little old couples with their grandchildren, one DECA members receive awards at the International DECA Awards College Collegiate DECA Presidential Leadership Award;2016-2017 Beta Beta Beta Biological can find them there. Program held in Anaheim, California. Southwest received the Mississippi Collegiate DECA Outstanding Chapter Member of the Honor Society, more commonly We made our way back to the Presidential Chapter Leadership Passport Award. Madison Martin Year; 2016-2017 Mississippi Collegiate DECA Alumni known as Tri-Beta, spread the tennis courts where the trail start- earned the Gold Individual Leadership Passport Award, and she also Scholarship;2016-2017 Mississippi Collegiate DECA 1st Place- importance of biological aware- ed. By this time, I could tell earned the Academic Honor Award. The Community Service Award Professional Sales;2016-2017 Mississippi Collegiate DECA 1st Place ness. Through community out- Truman was ready to go home. It went to Southwest. Cassidy Brecheen and Madison Martin both Web Site Award;2016-2017 Mississippi Collegiate DECA Foundation reach projects and campus initia- had been roughly four hours received the Chapter Leadership Award. Recipient of the Association Gold Star;2016-2017 Mississippi Collegiate DECA Community tives, Tri-Beta met that goal of since we had started out, and we Leadership Award was Madison Martin. Service Award;2016-2017 Southwest Mississippi Community College encouraging everyone to consid- were both tired. No sooner than Cassidy Brecheen: 2016-2017 Collegiate DECA International Collegiate DECA Voting Delegate er the impact he or she made on had we gotten back in the car, Chapter Leadership Award; 2016-2017 Mississippi Collegiate DECA Jasmine Pearson:2016-2017 Collegiate DECA International Chapter the environment. The undergrad- Truman was fast asleep on the 1st Place Web Site Award; 2016-2017 6th place Human Resource Leadership Passport Award- Presidential Level;2016-2017 Collegiate uate organization was entirely floor. He slept like that the entire Management;2016-2017 Collegiate DECA Foundation Gold DECA International Community Service Award;2016-2017 dedicated to improving the ride home. Percy Quinn had been Star;2016-2017 Mississippi Collegiate DECA Community Service Mississippi Collegiate DECA 1st Place Web Site Award;2016-2017 understanding and appreciation fun, but we were ready for a nap. Award; 2016-2017 Southwest Mississippi Community College Mississippi Collegiate DECA 2nd Place- Marketing Management of biological studies and extend- I know I will be taking Truman Collegiate DECA Voting Delegate Deanna Martin:Advisor-2016-2017 Collegiate DECA International ing boundaries of human knowl- back for another adventure some- Madison Martin:2016-2016 Collegiate DECA International Chapter Chapter Leadership Passport Award- Presidential Level;2016-2017 edge through scientific research. time soon. At Science Fun Day held at Leadership Passport Award - Presidential Level;2016-2017 Collegiate Collegiate DECA International Community Service Award;2016-2017 Otken Elementary, members DECA International Individual Leadership Passport Award -Gold Mississippi Collegiate DECA Teacher of the Year;2016-2017 stressed the importance of sci- Level;2016-2017 Collegiate DECA International Academic Honor Mississippi Collegiate DECA 1st Place Web Site Award;2016-2017 ence to the students. Presenting Award;2016-2017 Collegiate DECA International Community Service Mississippi Collegiate DECA 1st Place Web Site Award;2016-2017 projects on anatomy and physiol- Award;2016-2017 Collegiate DECA International Chapter Leadership Mississippi Collegiate DECA Foundation Gold Star;2016-2017 ogy, physics, and chemistry rein- Award;2016-2017 Collegiate DECA International Association Mississippi Collegiate DECA Community Service Award forced valuable lessons the third Leadership Award;2016-2017 Southwest Mississippi Community graders had previously learned in class. The looks of amazement on their eyes as the carbon diox- ide-filled bubble erupted moti- vated Tri-Beta members to put forth their best effort in fascinat- ing the students. Learning about the internal structures of the eye greatly enlightened the students on the complexity of sight. An experiment based upon Dr. Seuss’s “oobleck,” a mixture of cornstarch and water, demon- strated physical states of matter. When pressed with a heavy Administration force, the oobleck remained in a solid state; when the oobleck was Building, free of pressure, the substance existed as a liquid. Throughout Boardroom the day, Tri-Beta members and elementary students alike learned more about each other and the 8:00-3:00 science behind all living crea- tures. Yearbooks are here! Olivia Dickerson, Alyssa Brister, and Jaime Lowe smile at happy memories in the 2017 “Unstoppable” yearbook. NO FEES! April 21, 2017 4 News Adam and President Dr. Steve Bishop Why Not Sikes Southwest? receive receives 2017 Shirley B. By David Russell, honors staff writer By Michael D. Gunnell Sports Information Gordon Award of Distinction Southwest Mississippi Community College is the right Southwest guard Alissa Adam Southwest Mississippi Community College President Dr. Steve choice for college due to the has capped off her outstanding Bishop recently received the 2017 Shirley B. Gordon Award of affordable prices, the low stu- basketball career by being named Distinction at Phi Theta Kappa Catalyst 2017, which is Phi Theta dent-to-teacher ratio, and the to the NJCAA All-Region 23 Kappa's annual convention in Nashville, Tennessee. Selection for this excellent general education team. award is based on outstanding efforts given toward promoting the courses it provides. Southwest is A graduate of Hancock High goals of Phi Theta Kappa. The award is named for the late Dr. Shirley an excellent choice to prepare for School, Adam made her mark in B. Gordon, Phi Theta Kappa's longest-serving Board of Directors one’s future education. The the MACJC during her two years Chair and President Emeritus of Highline Community College in Des affordable pricing makes the as a starter for the Lady Bears. As Moines, Washington. Gordon was named Phi Theta Kappa's Most institution accessible to a diverse a freshman, she set career highs Distinguished College President in 1984. Nominees should have group of people. The low stu- for points (32 vs. East Central) served as president at least five years at the current institution, demon- dent-to-teacher ratio allows the and assists (11 vs. Meridian) and strated a strong level of support for Phi Theta Kappa during their students to have more one-on- finished 5th in the NJCAA with tenure, and must attend the Phi Theta Kappa annual convention to one time with the instructors. The 166 assists. For her achievements receive the award. excellent general courses allow in her initial season, she was Dr. Bishop was the first onstage to accept his award at Catalyst. one to take the correct classes to named 2nd Team All-State. As a Standing tall among college presidents from around the nation, Bishop get started on his or her degree. sophomore, she twice equaled served as an outstanding representative of all that Southwest has to The price of tuition, as well as her assists mark in games against offer. The MS/LA region and all other regions of Phi Theta Kappa room and board, is vitally impor- Meridian and finished the season applauded raucously as Southwest’s name and college president were tant to anyone considering ranked 16th in assists per game. announced. A PTK International Officer presented the award, and attending college. At Southwest, Also, she helped the Lady Bears Bishop departed the stage with a frenzy of applause from the audience. the affordable pricing allows finish as the MACJC state run- The Shirley B. Gordon Award of Distinction was an appropriate repre- many students who cannot afford ners-up. She was selected to the sentation of all that Bishop does for the Omicron Delta chapter of Phi to go to a university to get their MACJC All-State tournament Theta Kappa. His endless promotion of the honor society and genuine first two years of higher educa- team and the NJCAA All-Region support for all that the chapter stands for made him a fitting candidate tion at a reasonable price. This 23 tournament team. She has also for the honor. The PTK chapter looks forward to future partnerships allows the student to save up been named to the Southwest with the faculty and administration of Southwest Mississippi money during those two years to Hall of Fame. Commenting on Community College. be able to continue on to a uni- his departing standout, Lady Dr. Steve Bishop versity. Furthermore, there are Bears’ head coach Brent Harris scholarships available to help said “Alissa’s been great for us cover the already low price of for two years and is extremely tuition. No matter one’s financial deserving of this honor. She (did) Reggie Jones inducted into situation, Southwest Mississippi so much more for us than just Community College is an excel- getting assists and scoring; she lent option for a top-quality edu- (helped) change offenses and cation. defenses in the midst of the MACJC Sports Hall of Fame In addition to the numerous action.” “She’s been our coach other benefits of attending on the floor,” Harris continued. Southwest, the low student-to- “She’s accomplished a great deal Sports Hall of Fame Class of still holds the record for most Reggie is a member of the teacher ratio is very important, as and she’s going to be missed here 2017. Mr. Jones was recently points in a season----610 for the Southwest Mississippi Bar it allows for smaller class sizes at Southwest.” For her part, honored at a ceremony at the 1973-74 season, and he also still Association and the Mississippi and more face-to-face time with Adam said “I am overly grateful” Muse Center on the Hinds holds the record for scoring aver- Bar Association. He has been the faculty. Due to the smaller class to receive the award and “grate- Community College campus. age in that same season at 24.4 Attorney for the Amite County size, the instructors get to know ful for the opportunity to be at Reggie Jones of Liberty, points per game. Reggie was later Board of Supervisors for 32 and help each of their students. Southwest and everything that Mississippi, went to Liberty High inducted in the Millsaps College years, Attorney for Town of The instructors learn the stu- Coach Brent and Coach B (assis- School until his senior year when Sports Hall of Fame. He received Liberty for over 20 years, and is dents’ names, majors, and the tant coach Britta Stephens) have the basketball program was his J.D. from The University of currently serving as Attorney for classes they are taking. The stu- done for me. I personally don’t removed. While at Liberty, he Mississippi School of Law in Magnolia Electric Power dent is afforded the opportunity think I would have been success- was inducted in the Hall of Fame. 1977. Association and Amite County to visit his or her instructor and ful at any other Juco in the state.” He graduated from Hattiesburg Reggie is Past President of Youth Court Referee. Reggie is get help with any problem he or Asked what she will miss most High School in 1970 and went on Liberty Area Chamber of currently a practicing attorney at she might have in the classroom about Southwest, Adam listed to play at Southwest Mississippi Commerce and Past President of Jones Law Group, P.A. with his or with assignments. The impor- several things. “Basketball in Junior College where he graduat- Amite School Center Board of daughter in Liberty. tance of a low student-to-teacher general,” she said. “I’ll miss the ed in 1972. He was selected All- Trustees. He is presently serving Reggie is a lifelong member of ratio can be a huge deciding fac- (closeness) with my teammates State his sophomore year and was on the Board of Trustees of Field Liberty United Methodist tor in where one decides to attend and getting to know them. The later inducted in Southwest MS Health System and has served on Church. Reggie is most proud of school. Jones teachers have been great in Community College Sports Hall the Board of Trustees for his children, Reg Jones of Southwest boasts exceptional preparing me for the next school Reggie Jones has been chosen of Fame. Reggie then went to Southwest MS Community McComb, and Sara and Patrick general education courses. No (she will attend) and, probably, as a member of the Mississippi Millsaps College where he led the College for the past 39 years. He Hemphill of McComb, and his matter what a student’s major Coach Brent because I talk to Community and Junior College team in scoring for two years and has served as President of SMCC first grandchild, Bess Hemphill. might be, he or she will have to him every single day.” After graduated in 1974. Reggie Jones Board of Trustees since 2011. take some general courses. graduating from Southwest, Southwest Mississippi Adam plans to attend Mississippi Community College allows the State University to pursue a student to take these courses at an degree in English Education. “I affordable price. The instructors want to get my Master’s and for these courses are engaging, come back and teach at a junior fair, and want the best for their college one day and go on and students. These courses set the maybe pursue a doctorate.” student up for future success for Guard Rodrick Sikes has when they move on to a universi- received yet another honor for ty or a career. his performance as a member of Overall, Southwest the Southwest Bears basketball Mississippi Community College team. The St. Martin High is a quality option for school due School graduate has been named to its affordable pricing, the low to the NJCAA Region 23 All- student-to-teacher ratio, and the Region team. Though he only excellent general education averaged just over 9 points per courses it provides. Southwest is game as a freshman, Sikes served an institution where the adminis- notice of things to come when he tration, faculty, and staff want broke loose for 31 points in the what is best for their students. No 2015-16 MACJC tournament matter what major a student may championship game to help the choose to enter into, Southwest is Bears claim their first state title a great place to begin. The in 53 years. In 2016-17, Sikes led atmosphere at Southwest is very the Bears and the MACJC, and friendly and makes the campus was ninth in the NJCAA, with 22 Southwest Independent Indoor Percussion group wins first place: Demetrius Townsend, Daniel Little, Preston feel like home. There are also points per game. He scored in Vaughn, Jack Stogner; second row: Nick Mueller, Janice Spicuzza, Jacob Landry, Bryce Boyd, Scott Molason, Julia Cates, Maleigha Taylor, Anna many activities that a student can double figures in each of the Grace Thomas, John Shannon; third row: Andrew Garner, Michael Martin, Wyatt Fortenberry, Jonathan Scott, David Russel The Southwest participate in after class. A stu- Bears’ 27 games and scored over Independent Indoor Percussion group, led by band director Clay Whittington, won first place in their division in the State Championship. The dent has many options to fill his 30 points five times, including event was held in Jackson at the Mississippi Coliseum, where a number of percussion groups competed. Southwest Independent traveled to or her free time. Southwest his Southwest-career best 38 in a Dayton, Ohio, on April 18 to compete in the World Championship. Mississippi Community College 97-92 road win over eventual is a phenomenal school to begin state champion Jones County. He one’s major and continue one’s was also a two-time league pathway to success. Player of the Week and was named to the MACJC All-Region 23 tournament team. Southwest head coach Thomas Gray said he was “really excited for Rodrick getting this great honor, to be one of the top players in the region. It just shows the hard work that he’s put in in the past couple of years. I’m just so proud of his growth as a basketball player and as a young man.” “He’s really been recognized, not only by people in this state and this region,” Gray went on, “but also across the country with his multiple Division 1 scholarship offers and it’s just a testament to the hard work that he’s put in and the character that he has to go with his great ability to play the game of basketball.” Sikes said receiving the award “is truly an honor. But, it’s not something that I did on my own. I’m thankful for, first of all, God and all the coaches ADN student receives scholarship: Pictured are the following: Dr. Melissa Temple, ADN Director; Kelli Dawson, ADN student; and all the support that I had Rosalyn Howard, MS Nurses Foundation representative; and Erica Myers, ADN instructor. Kelli Dawson receives a scholarship from the throughout the season. I definite- Mississippi Nurses Foundation. The vision of the Mississippi Nurses Foundation is to be the charitable organization in the state of Mississippi ly could not have done this with- that is most influential in impacting the professional image of nursing, sponsoring continuing nursing education, and funding for nursing. The out my teammates and coaches Mississippi Nurses Foundation scholarships are sponsored by the Mississippi Nurses Foundation and recipients are selected based on GPA, res- and family.” ident of Mississippi, scholarship, and service. photo by Kimi Jeanson April 21, 2017 Sports 5 Bears defeat Pearl River Wildcats

By Michael Jones County Bobcats, The Bears would regain the Bears made it in the bottom of the D. Gunnell Wednesday afternoon, falling 13- lead at 5-4 in the top of the eighth frame when Chance Groue led off Southwest Sports 1 and 17-3. Game two ended in when John Marcus McDowell with a single and scored two bat- Information five innings. launched a 1-0 pitch over the ters later on a Chrishaun Speight Director The Bears trailed 9-0 in the right field fence for a grand slam. base hit. opener before getting their only Scoring on the play were Cole, The visitors would score single run of the game, a homer over the Scooter Ginn and Alex Smith runs in the top of the third, fourth left field fence by catcher Austin The Bears (12-17, 1-13) suf- and fifth innings to move out to a Moen. Jones County went on to fered heartbreak in the bottom of 4-1 lead. add four more runs. the eighth when a single and pair The Bears (13-18, 2-14) made April 1, 2017 Carr Young took the loss on the of doubles resulted in two runs it 4-2 in their half of the fifth The host Meridian Eagles mound, giving up nine runs (five scoring and giving the Rangers when Brantley Hughes doubled to swept an MACJC doubleheader earned) on nine hits and a walk, in what proved to be the winning left field with one out and scored from the Bears Saturday after- five innings of work. He struck runs. on a Pearl River error. noon, winning the opener 6-3, out five batters. T Tez Cole, Kyle Coleman took the loss on The Bears completed their despite being outhit 11-7, and tak- Scooter Ginn and Ray the mound with 3.1 innings of comeback with three runs in their ing the finale 6-1. Hutchinson each had a single. relief. He allowed four runs (one half of the sixth. Groue doubled The Bears took a 2-0 first- The Bobcats (29-1, 11-1) took earned) on five hits and three to lead off the frame (he would inning lead in game one when a 3-0 lead in the top of the first in walks. He also struck out three later add another double and ear- Andrew Beesley led off with a the finale. The Bears (12-15, 1- batters. lier had a second single) and double to left field (he would later 11) made it 3-2 in the bottom of Ginn had two singles in the scored on an Alex Smith sacrifice add a pair of singles) and scored the inning. Cole was hit by a pitch game while Andrew Beesley and fly. Kyle Coleman focuses on the batter. photo by Chuck Barnes on Brantley Hughes’ base hit. to lead off the frame and scored Chance Groue both had a double. A Hughes single, allowed Hughes later scored on a Scooter on an error when Ginn reached on Fidel Bello and Brantley Hughes Speight, on base via a walk, to unable to score an additional run Itawamba (23-9, 10-6) would Ginn single. a fielder’s choice. A Chrishaun both had a single. score the tying run (Hughes also in the inning, the game moved increase their lead to 10-2 by The lead lasted until the bottom Speight single then scored Ginn. Ginn's two-out homer to left had another double in the game). into the eighth. scoring five runs in the fourth of the third inning when a two-out The Bears scored their final run field put the Bears on top 1-0 in Andrew Beesley, on base with his Pearl River used a walk, sacri- inning and single runs in the sev- grand slam put the Eagles (15-11, of the game in their half of the the top of the first in the finale. A second hit of the contest, scored fice bunt and single to score what enth and eighth innings. 4-6) on top 4-2. fifth inning when Andrew bunt single by McDowell scored what proved to be the winning proved to be the winning run in The Bears (13-20, 2-16) scored The Bears trailed 6-2 in the top Beesley reached base on a one- Groue, on base with a single, in run on a bases-loaded walk to T the top of the extra inning. They the game’s final run in the bottom of the eighth when Crishaun out single, moved to third on a the top of the second to increase Tez Cole. then retired the Bears in order in of the ninth when Chance Groue Speight, on base with a single, Brantley Hughes double (his sec- the Bears' lead to 2-0. Carr Young pitched 6 innings, the bottom of the frame to escape reached base on a lead-off double scored from third on a bases- ond hit of the game) and reached A Rangers' homer in the bot- allowing four runs (three earned) with the win. and crossed the plate later on loaded double play. the plate on Hutchinson’s base tom of the fourth cut the Bears' on seven hits and four walks to Sy Odom took the loss on the when Austin Moen grounded out. Cody Miller took the loss on hit. lead to 2-1. The Rangers (20-12, get the win. He struck out two mound for the Bears, giving up an Bryson McRaney took the loss the mound, surrendering four Tyler Pigott took the loss, giv- 8-6) would then use a pair of sin- batters. Tyler Pigott struck out earned run on one hit and a walk on the mound, giving up three unearned runs in four innings on ing up nine runs (one unearned) gles, two doubles and a walk to two batters, and gave up one hit, in two innings. He also struck out runs on six hits in three innings of four hits and a walk while striking on nine hits and a pair of walks in score three runs and take a 4-2 in one inning of work to get the one batter. work. He struck out one batter. out five. four innings of work. He struck lead in the bottom of the fifth. save. John Marcus McDowell had Groue had two singles in the Crishaun Speight singled in the The Bears (12-13, 1-9) took a out two batters. Cole had a single Two more runs in their half of a single for the Bears. game. game. 1-0 lead in the second inning of in the game. the sixth would give the Rangers A walk to Beesley and Scooter April 14, 2017 The Indians sent nine men to game two when T Tez Cole, on April 8, 2017 their final margin of victory. Ginn’s sacrifice fly gave the The 12th-ranked Itawamba the plate in the top of the first in base with a lead-off single, scored Despite outhitting the host Josh Merchant was saddled Bears a 1-0 first-inning lead in the Indians took a pair of MACJC game two and finished the inning four batters later when Speight Northwest Rangers 11-9 in the with the loss for the Bears. He finale. games from the Bears in Summit with a 4-0 lead. reached on an error. opener, the Bears suffered a tough gave up six runs (five earned) on Pearl River (19-9, 10-4) scored Friday afternoon, winning the The Bears closed the gap to 4- The Eagles tied the game at 1- 6-5 defeat. The Rangers complet- 11 hits and a walk while striking four runs in the top of the fourth opener 10-3 before taking the 2 in the bottom of the first when 1 with a solo run in their half of ed the MACJC doubleheader out six batters in 5.2 innings on and two more in the top of the finale 12-2 (in six innings). Hughes and Ginn both singled the fourth inning. They would go sweep with a 6-2 win in the night- the mound. Beesley single twice sixth to take a 6-1 lead. The Bears took a 1-0 lead in with one out and scored on on to add four runs in the fifth cap. for the Bears. The Bears made a game of it in the bottom of the first in game Groue’s bases-loaded base hit. inning and their final run in the Game one was scoreless until April 11, 2017 the bottom of the sixth, scoring one when Andrew Beesley The Indians would go on to add sixth. the top of the fourth when T Tez The Bears overcame a three- four runs to pull to within 6-5. reached on an error to start the a pair of runs in the top of the Josh Merchant went 4.1 Cole led off with a double to right run deficit in game one to defeat Beesley’s bases-loaded single frame. He scored two batters later fourth inning, four in the fifth and innings on the mound, allowing field, the first of his two hits in the visiting Pearl River Wildcats scored Groue and McDowell. on a T Tez Cole double. two more in the sixth to reach five runs (four earned) on six hits the game, and scored two batters 5-4 in game one of their MACJC Errors later in the inning allowed Five singles resulted in three their final margin of victory. and a pair of walks, in taking the later on Austin Moen's two-base doubleheader Tuesday afternoon. Beesley and Smith to cross the runs for the Indians in the top of Josh Merchant took the loss for loss. He struck out three batters. hit to put the Bears on top 1-0. The Wildcats achieved a split plate. the third, giving them a 3-1 the Bears, allowing 10 runs on John Marcus McDowell had two Moen would later add a single. when they scored a run in the top On base for Austin Moen, who advantage. The Bears made it 3-2 nine hits and five walks in 4.1 singles for the Bears. A solo homer in the Rangers' of the eighth of the nightcap to had doubled for his second hit of in the bottom of the inning when innings on the mound. He struck April 5, 2017 half of the fourth tied the game at get a 7-6 win. the game, Smith knotted the game Brantley Hughes led off with a out four batters. Ray Hutchinson The Bears dropped a home 1-1. They would add three more A walk and single led to a 1-0 at 6-6 in the bottom of the seventh single, moved to second when had a single for the Bears. MACJC doubleheader to the runs in the bottom of the fifth to lead for Pearl River in top of the when he scored on another Pearl Scooter Ginn walked and scored NJCAA’s top-ranked team, the take a 4-1 advantage. second inning in game one. The River miscue. With the Bears on Cole’s base hit. Lady Bears sweep Lady Eagles

March 29, 2017 double to centerfield and scored The Lady Bears trailed 1-0 struck out one. hits and a walk. She struck out ters. Morgan Webb’s two-out single four batters later on a Magee sin- before getting on the board in the Amy Bonvillain, Jordan one batter. Bonvillain had two hits in the in the bottom of the 10th scored gle. Webb, on base via a walk, bottom of the first in the finale. Fitzgerald, Kristie Sanchez and Itawamba scored the only run game while Kristie Sanchez also Gianca Holmes from second base scored on a Bremenkamp ground Magee reached on an error to start Magee each had a single for the they would need in the finale in hit safely. and gave the Lady Bears a 6-5 out and Jenna Duff’s single the frame and scored two batters Lady Bears. the bottom of the third. They April 13, 2017 game-two win, and MACJC dou- scored Bonvillain who was on later when Duff reached on The Lady Bears trailed 4-0 in would go on to score a single run Miranda Magee blasted a two- bleheader sweep, over the visiting base with a single. another error. the finale before scoring their in the fifth and another in the out two-run homer over the fence Meridian Lady Eagles Magee singled and scored in The Lady Tigers (2-26, 0-16) only run in the bottom of the sixth to complete the sweep. in left field to give the Lady Bears Wednesday night. The Lady the bottom of the fourth to used a single, stolen base and fly sixth. Bonvillain, on base with Rebecca Davis took the loss a 3-2 win over Northwest in game Bears won the opener 7-0. increase the Lady Bears’ lead to ball out to regain the lead, 2-1, in her second hit of the game, scored for the Lady Bears, allowing all one of their MACJC doublehead- The sweep left the Lady Bears 5-0. Holmes, on base with her the top of the second. on Lauren Walker’s double. three runs (two earned) on only er Thursday in Summit. with a 14-15 overall mark and a third hit of the game, scored on a The Lady Bears responded by Gulf Coast then added a solo four hits (with three walks) in six Northwest came back to get a 10-4 conference record. Meridian Kristie Sanchez hit in the fifth sending 12 batters to the plate, run in the top of the seventh to innings of work. The Lady Bears split with a 5-3 win in the finale. fell to 13-12, 8-8. inning to make the score 6-0. The and scoring six runs, to regain the reach the final score. were limited to a single from The Lady Bears (18-21, 14-10) The Lady Bears took a 1-0 final run of the game came in the lead for good at 8-2. Magee dou- Rebecca Davis took the loss in Jenna Duffand one from Jeney took a 1-0 lead in the opener first-inning lead in the nightcap sixth inning when Fitzgerald’s bled to drive in one run. the circle for the Lady Bears, Hudson. when Kelcey Bremenkamp sent on Kelcey Bremenkamp’s homer base hit scored Bremenkamp, on Bremenkamp’s double, the first allowing five runs (two earned) April 11, 2017 an 0-2 pitch over the right field over the right field fence. Jordan base after being hit by a pitch. of her two hits in the game, on nine hits and two walks in The Lady Bears split an fence in the bottom of the second Fitzgerald’s solo smash to left Shipley got the complete-game scored one. Duff, Hudson and seven innings of work. She struck MACJC road doubleheader at inning. She would later add a sin- field made the score 2-0 after four win in the circle after giving up Fitzgerald each had an RBI base out four batters. Magee had a sin- Hinds Community College gle. innings. only four hits while striking out hit while Hudson scored on an gle in the game. Tuesday afternoon, winning the Northwest (19-17, 13-11) Meridian tied the score at 2-2 four batters. error. Duff later added another April 8,2017 finale 6-2 after falling 3-1 in answered, using a pair of singles, on a solo homer by Jayla April 1, 2017 hit. The Lady Tigers added their The 14th ranked Itawamba game one. a sacrifice, error and ground out Poindexter in the top of the fifth The Lady Bears made final two runs in the top of the Lady Indians swept an MACJC Madison Parker and Rebecca to score two runs in the top of the and Alexandria Riser’s long ball Sophomore Day one to remember seventh. doubleheader from the Lady Davis both had RBI singles for third inning to go ahead 2-1. in the top of the seventh. With the Saturday afternoon as they swept Rebecca Davis got the win in Bears in Fulton Saturday after- the Lady Bears in the top of the The score remained 2-1 until Lady Bears unable to score in the the visiting Coahoma Lady Tigers the circle, giving up two runs noon, taking game one 5-4 and first inning in game two. A field- the bottom of the seventh when, bottom of the seventh, the game 10-0 and 8-4 in MACJC action. (one earned) on four hits while the finale 3-0. Game one went er’s choice allowed another run to with Kassie Shipley on base, went into extra innings. Game one ended after five striking out one. Mikaela Smith eight innings. score to put the Lady Bears up 3- Magee stepped to the plate to hit Riser’s second homer of the innings. allowed two runs on three hits Itawamba (25-9-1, 14-4) took 0. Parker would go on to record the game-winner. game, in the top of the ninth, gave Miranda Magee put the Lady while striking out one batter. a 1-0 lead in the bottom of the two more singles. Shipley got the complete-game Meridian a 3-2 advantage. The Bears (16-15, 12-4) put the Lady Kayla Sanchez and Kristie first inning. The Lady Bears The Lady Bears (17-20, 13-9) win in the circle, giving up two Lady Bears responded in the bot- Bears on top 1-0 in the bottom of Sanchez both had a single. responded with a pair of runs, made it 6-0 in the second inning. unearned runs on eight hits while tom of the frame with a line-drive the third when she send a full- April 5, 2017 coming on Kassie Shipley's base Gianca Holmes led off with a sin- striking out one. Amy Bonvillain, homer to center field by Amy count pitch over the fence in left The fifth-ranked Mississippi hit, to go on top 2-1. gle (she would later add another Giana Holmes and Morgan Webb Bonvillain, her second hit of the field Jenna Duff, on base via a Gulf Coast Lady Bulldogs took With the game tied at 2-2 in base hit) and later scored on Amy each had a base hit. game, to tie the game at 3-3. double, scored on an error and an MACJC doubleheader from the top of the fourth, Jordan Bonvillain’s base hit. Bonvillain The Lady Bears took a 1-0 first Meridian regained the lead, 5- Jeney Hudson, on base courtesy the Lady Bears Wednesday after- Fitzgerald sent a 1-2 pitch over later on a fielder’s choice and inning lead in game two when 3, with a pair of runs in the top of another error, scored on Amy noon in Summit, capturing game the fence in left field to put the Holmes scored on an error. Magee reached on a lead-off the 10th. Then came the bottom Bonvillain’s base hit to give the on 4-1 before taking the finale 5- Lady Bears (16-19, 12-8) back on Hinds (11-28, 6-16) made the walk, moved to third on a of the inning. With Lauren Lady Bears a 3-0 lead after three. 1. top, 3-2. Fitzgerald later added a score 6-1 with a run in the bottom Bonvillain base hit and scored on Walker on base, Fitzgerald sent The Lady Bears sent 11 batters The losses dropped the Lady single. of the third and scored their final Jordan Fitzgerald’s sacrifice fly. the first pitch she saw flying over to the plate in the bottom of the Bears to 16-17 overall and 12-6 in The lead was short-lived, how- run in the bottom of the fifth. An error and Sallie Rose the fence in centerfield to tie the fourth and scored seven times to the conference. Gulf Coast ever, as Itawamba tied it at 3-3 Davis got the complete-game Carver homer to right field put game at 5-5. Holmes followed move out to a 10-0 advantage. climbed to 27-8, 16-2. with a run in the bottom of the win in the circle, surrendering Northwest on top 2-1 in the top of with her second hit of the game The big blows in the inning came The visitors took a 1-0 lead in fourth. two earned runs on five hits and the third. Northwest then extend- before stealing second and scor- on Gianca Holmes’ three-run the top of the second in game one. The Lady Bears took the lead two walks. She struck out two ed their lead to 3-1 in the top of ing the winning run on Webb’s homer to right field and The Lady Bears tied the game at once again in the top of the sev- batters. the fourth. walk-off hit. Bonvillain’s solo shot to right. 1-1 in the bottom of the third wen enth when Amy Bonvillain's line Jordan Fitzgerald had two hits The Lady Bears tied the game Kassie Shipley pitched three Bonvillain also had a single in the Miranda Magee reached base drive double, her second hit of the in the game. at 3-3 in the bottom of the fourth innings in relief, giving up three game. after being hit by a pitch and contest, scored Baylee Bryant to Hinds held a 2-0 lead in the on RBI singles from runs on five hits with a strikeout, Kassie Shipley gave an excel- scored two batters later when make the score 4-3. opener before the Lady Bears Bremenkamp and Rebecca Davis. to get the win for the Lady Bears. lent account of herself in the cir- Jenna Duff reached on an error. A run in the Itawamba half of made it 2-1 on Fitzgerald’s lead- Using four singles, Northwest The Lady Bears took a 1-0 cle, allowing only one hit and Gulf Coast responded with two the seventh tied the score at 4-4 off homer to left field, her second scored a pair of runs in the top of game-one lead in the bottom of issuing only one walk in her five runs in the top of the fourth to and forced extra play. A single hit of the game, in the top of the the fifth to regain the lead at 5-3. the first. Miranda Magee was hit innings of work. She struck out increase their lead to 3-1. They and two-out error in the bottom of fifth. Hinds would add the final They would go on to win by the by a pitch to lead off the frame five batters. added the final run of the game in the eighth then allowed the win- run of the game in the bottom of same score. and scored three batters later on Hudson singled twice in the the top of the sixth. ning run to cross the plate for the the fifth. Davis took the loss in the cir- Jeney Hudson’s base hit. game while Kristie Sanchez dou- Kassie Shipley went the full hosts. Kassie Shipley took the loss in cle, allowing five runs (three The score went to 4-0 in the bled. Kelcey Bremenkamp and seven innings in the circle, giving Shipley took the complete- the circle, giving up three runs earned) on nine hits in five Lady Bears’ second inning. Jordan Fitzgerald both had a sin- up four unearned runs on 10 hits game loss in the circle, giving up (one earned) on six hits and a pair innings of work. She struck out Holmes led off with a line-drive gle. and a walk, to get the loss. She five runs (one earned) on eight of walks. She struck out two bat- one batter. April 21, 2017 News 6 Football “13 schedule reasons set why” By Kimi Jeanson, co-editor By Michael Gunnell, Sports Information Director The new hit show “13 Reasons Why” reopens the issue of bully- The schedule for the 2017 edi- ing and teen suicide. In the past, tion of the Southwest Bears foot- we have had many iconic ball team has been set. movies, such as Mean Girls, to Among the Bears’ nine games, expose the harsh truth of words five will be played at home. They and the damage they cause. “13 will open the season on August Pine Burr staff and journalism students win awards: Pictured are Kimi Jeanson, Garrett Graves, Jonathan Scott, Reasons Why” goes even further 31, with a home date against the into the psyche of not just the Cody Pol, and Joyce Mabry, journalism instructor and Pine Burr advisor. SMCC’s campus newspaper the Pine Burr and journalism students won Coahoma Tigers. That will be victim but also the bullies. For 11 awards in the Mississippi Press Association’s Community College Newspaper Competition at the O.C. McDavid Journalism Conference in followed by a home game versus those of you who have not Jackson, MS. Garrett Graves, Kimi Jeanson, Cody Pol, Jonathan Scott, and the Pine Burr staff won. Kimi Jeanson won First Place in Spot Holmes (September 7). watched it yet, do not fear News Photo, Second Place in Graphic, Third Place in Graphic, Third Place in Feature Photo, and Third Place in Spot News Photo. Jonathan The Bears will take the road because there are no spoilers Scott won First Place in Editorial Cartoon. Garrett Graves won Second Place in the Sports Photo Division. Cody Pol won Third Place in In Depth for their next two contests, trav- ahead. “13 Reasons Why” differs or Investigative Report. The Pine Burr staff won Second Place in the Best Front Page Division, Second Place in Design, and Third Place in eling to Hinds and Northeast on from the rest in that it is told as a General Excellence. September 14 and 21, respective- suicide note to all of those whose ly. actions caused a young girl, They will return home for a Hannah Baker, to kill herself. September 28 matchup against She records her experiences on Jones County followed by tape and sends them to the people Homecoming on October 7 on the tapes. Her confrontation against Pearl River. drastically affects the guilty The Bears will travel to Gulf group. As more people discover Coast on October 12 before their secrets and what they did, returning home for the final time they resort to desperate measures for an October 19 game against which includes even attacking arch-rival Co-Lin. They will then each other. Little did they realize, close out the campaign in it was what they did not do that Decatur when they take on East killed her. Going through high Central. school is not an easy task. This All home games, with the show perfectly illustrates many exception of Homecoming, will things you might have experi- be played on Thursday night. enced; it may even be relatable. Kickoff for the first three home Whether you were the victim or games will be at 7:00. The the punisher, you can relate to at Homecoming game will kick off least one character in the show. at 5:00 with the Co-Lin game set Teen movies or shows cannot for a 6:30 start. ADN and PN students give back to the community: Pictured above are the following: Stephanie Greer, Melissa Temple, pull away from the stereotypes of Tanya Boyd, Alecia Hollis, Rose Conerly, Shellah Young, Adrian Hammon, Nona Deer, Dewanna Achord, Brenda Wilson, Barbra Olander, and the jock, the cheerleader, or the Dianne Wilkinson.SMCC nursing faculty, ADN and PN, attended the Southwest Mississippi Regional Medical Foundation Operation fundrais- nerd; there will always be that Southwest ing event on March 30th in honor of Gayle Cornwell, who was a Foundation member who recently lost her battle to pancreatic cancer. Everyone stereotype. “13 Reasons Why” is came dressed in scrubs. There was a “Go Wild for Gayle” scrubs contest that Shellah Young entered. We helped decorate her scrubs, and she won no exception; however, the show Mississippi second place. definitely blurs the lines. Things are not what they seem, and nei- Community ther are people. College exceeds Sikes expectations receives

By Justin Griffin, freelance writer post-

Southwest is a good school that has a home-feeling atmos- season phere, has great nstructors, and has a lot of activities. When I was choosing where to go to college, honors Southwest was at the top of my By Michael Gunnell, Sports list. I had planned to go to Information Director Southwest when I was a junior in high school. I was a Southwest Beta Beta Beta inducts new members: Robin Kuntz, advisor; Kristen Parnell, Lindsey Wallace, Alexcia Carr, Shinah Moore, Simarjit Southwest standout Rodrick basketball game, and I knew then Kaur, Korey Dillon,MeOshia Williams, J.C. Gardner, Andrew Boyd, Kaylin Boyd, Emma Walls, Ariel McDaniel, Alana Gabler, advisor photo by Joyce Mabry Sikes has added to his post-sea- I wanted to be a part of the Bear son honors by being named 2nd family. I toured Southwest and Team All-American. He was ear- knew that this is where I wanted lier named to the NJCAA All- to be. Region 23 team. Southwest having a homey Sikes, a St. Martin High atmosphere was my main reason School graduate and University for coming here. I went to North of South Alabama signee, led the Pike, which is right across the Bears and was ninth in the street from Southwest, so coming NJCAA with 22 points per game to Southwest was just like going during the 2016-17 season. to my high school again. I also As a freshman, Sikes became a live eight minutes away from the household name after scoring 31 school. I have grown up here my points in the MACJC tournament whole life. I was a little nervous championship game to help the about going to college, but Bears win their first title in 53 Southwest took those nerves years. He also finished with a 3.6 away from me. GPA to help the Bears become Southwest has exceeded my the NJCAA men’s basketball expectations. The main reason Academic Team of the Year with for this is because of the faculty. the fifth-highest GPA men’s bas- The faculty at Southwest has ketball GPA in NJCAA history. been great. They have helped me with everything I have needed. They will do anything in their power to help their students. At Southwest, there are so many activities for all students. There are many clubs, groups, sports, and intramural sports that a student can join. This year I played intramural basketball and had a great time. The football, basketball, baseball, soccer, and Sikes signs with the University of South Southwest and I see that at South Alabama, which is big because if softball games are all great to go your team is together then you can go far.” Pictured are the following: Robin Sikes, father, Rodrick to. There is also the Baptist Alabama: Graves said he was “very pleased to add Rodrick to our roster for the Student Union, where students Sikes, Gloria Sikes, mother, Kristiaen Sikes, sister; second row: upcoming season. Assistant Coach Russ Willemsen did a great job hang out and go on trips all the Southwest assistant coach Andy Farrell, Southwest head coach Thomas identifying Rodrick early in the process as a person who really fits the time doing missionary work. Gray. With the stroke of a pen, Southwest basketball standout Rodrick student-athlete profile we want here at South Alabama. He brings a There is something for everyone Sikes has signed to continue his collegiate career with Head Coach great ability to shoot the basketball from the three-point range and at Southwest. Matthew Grave’s University of South Alabama Jaguars. The Jaguars enhances our athleticism on the perimeter.” In conclusion, Southwest has play in the Sun Belt Conference. “Rodrick has really improved his overall skill in two years at definitely exceeded my expecta- Sikes, a graduate of St. Martin High School, played an integral part Southwest under Head Coach Thomas Gray and his staff,” Graves con- tions. I am so glad I made the of the Bears’ success over the past two years as they went 35-17. As a tinued, “and I am excited to begin working with him this summer.” decision to come here. If some- freshman, he served notice of things to come when he scored 31 points For his part, Gray said he would first like to say thank you to St. one out there is trying to decide in the MACJC tournament championship game to help the team win Martin head coach Charlie Pavlus for the job that he did preparing on where to go, Southwest needs their first state title in 53 years and was named tournament MVP. Rodrick to be successful at the college level. It always makes our job to be at the top of your list. As a sophomore, Sikes led the Bears, and was ninth in the NJCAA, as college coaches easier when they come from a great program like Southwest is helping me so much with 22 points per game. He scored in double figures in all 27 of the Coach Pavlus has at St. Martin.” in achieving my goals. Coming Bears’ games during 2016-17 and had over 30 points five times, includ- “Rodrick was a guy who meant a lot to this program,” Gray went on, to Southwest will prepare me for ing a Southwest-career high 38 in a 97-92 win over eventual state “not only on the floor as he led us in scoring this year, but also off the whatever life throws my way. champion Jones County, and was an NJCAA All-Region 23 selection. floor as he led us in the classroom. He’s a young man who’s worked Sikes also excelled in the classroom. As a freshman, he compiled a hard and earned everything that he’s being given right now and the 3.6 GPA to help the Bears finish with the highest cumulative GPA in opportunities that he’s had.” the NJCAA among all men’s basketball teams. It was also the fifth- Gray said Sikes came to Southwest “from high school where had highest men’s basketball GPA in NJCAA history. didn’t even have any NCAA Division 2 offers to working so hard to Sikes said of his decision to move to South Alabama, “I believe they where had over 15 Division 1 offers. “I’m just so excited for him in have all three things I was looking for in a school-academics, a com- realizing this dream, this goal, and just so excited for South Alabama. petitiveness as a team and also I felt like I could be at home there.” They are getting not only an excellent basketball player, but a great guy Also, Sikes said South Alabama is much like Southwest in that who’s going to lead them and help build their culture and help them be “they’re like a family. There’s a family aspect that you can see at successful on the floor and off the floor.” April 21, 2017 Cartoons/ News 7

Whispering Pine Burr: Pines: Voice of Southwest is Southwest

Unstoppable By Cody Pol, Editor

By Brooke Smith, Pine Burr, Southwest’s very co-editor own monthly student publication, was always on the pursuit of the Whispering Pines staff, latest campus news. Whether instructed by Joyce Mabry, taking pictures at student events worked diligently all year long to or interviewing alumni for biog- perfectly capture every important raphical pieces, the Pine Burr event and freeze moments in staff never sat idle. The Pine time at which students may look Burr was an important part of back and remember their favorite Southwest students’ lives; when- times at Southwest Mississippi ever someone had the desire to Community College. learn about current events on The yearbook staff spent campus, the first place they countless hours cropping pic- turned to was the newspaper. tures, proofing student names, Members of the staff took great and choosing the most fitting pride in knowing that they were photographs for each spread. the sole documenters of the hap- Members learned to use Adobe penings on campus. InDesign CS6 and Adobe Intramural Basketball Champions: 3K: Michael Martin, Chris Wells; second row: Ladarrius Young, Jaterrious Wilson, Trivillian Williams, Detavius Working full-force to meet Photoshop Elements, all while Bonds, Dequarius Bonds deadlines, the Pine Burr staff of racing against time to meet ever- the editor, co-editors, and staff approaching deadlines. writers was nothing other than Southwest’s passion for excel- insuppressible in every task they lence in both athletics and aca- set forth to complete. Working demics inspired the Whispering late into the afternoon to ensure Pines staff to design this year’s that articles were proofed and the yearbook with the word “unstop- pages were laid out just so, mem- pable” in mind. bers persevered relentlessly to Campus functions were publish the best newspaper possi- assigned to a member each week ble. After hours, staff photogra- in order to keep up-to-date on all phers toiled endlessly in pursuit things Southwest. Mrs. Mabry of the perfect shot at sporting and the yearbook staff made it a events and student activities. priority and goal to cover every The collective work of all mem- event possible in order to publish bers of the Pine Burr staff result- a yearbook that best represented ed in a collection of priceless the accomplishments and fun documents that will forever live times had at Southwest on in the campus archives. Mississippi Community College. After all their hard work, the staff ultimately hoped to create a book even better than the prior year’s, which won First Place Overall in the Mississippi Community College and Junior College Press Association (MCJCPA) yearbook competition. The publication won first New members of the Cheer Team: Haven Johnson, Kelsey Hedgepeth, Leanne Fuqua, Tiffany Prevost, Aleigh Flynn, Anna Morgan Smith; second place in the categories of Cover, row: Edward Howard, Latreall Smith, Hannah Owen, Marcus Kees, Jay Palen Structure, Typography, Copy, and by Michael D. Gunnell Prevost (WCCA) and Anna Morgan Smith (Brookhaven Academy). Design, and the staff continued to Southwest Sports Information Director The new young men on the squad are Edward Howard (McComb adamantly pursue excellence HS), Marcus Kees (Lawrence County HS), Jay Palen (North Pike HS) every day so that Southwest Following recent tryouts, eleven new members have been selected and Latreall Smith (Loyd Star HS). could continue to boast award- for the 2017-18 Southwest cheer squad. The young ladies joining the The new members will join returners Mario Lindsay and Katajah winning yearbooks. squad are Aleigh Flynn (Mendenhall HS), Leanne Fuqua (West Lincoln Mahaffey (Mendenhall HS), Alleon Thigpen (Amite County HS), Will HS), Kelsey Hedgepeth (Lawrence County HS), Haven Johnson Fauver and Summer Martin (Bogue Chitto HS), Keyvarious Lucas (Lawrence County HS), Hannah Owen (North Pike HS), Tiffany (McComb HS) and Emma Walls (Centreville Academy). Cartoons.....

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