January/February 2011 Bear Facts

Check out the editorials on page 2.

Winter formal pics are on pages 6-7.

Look for the worst dates on page 11.

Bear Facts

The

25¢

A PUBLICATION OF MENA HIGH SCHOOL

Volume 1 Number 4

January/February 2011

700 S. Morrow St., Mena, Arkansas 71953

Students earn MOS certification

by Dani Lindsey

S t u d e n t s i n M o l l y L i n d s e y ’s Computerized Business Applications classes took Certiport’s Microsoft Office Specialist (MOS) exam for Word 2007, and 30 of the 77 students tested received certification in November.

Certified students include Zach Atchley, Gina Barker, Angie Brown, Jacee Burr, Joseph Cabello, Monique Chelius, Dakota Daniels, Emily Ferguson, Zach Fijman, Jeremiah Foster, April Ganster, Carly Gear, Trevor Hale, Smith Harrison, Lucas Head, Ariel Joyce, Justin Kincaid, Ashley Maechler, Kristen Manasco, Leslie McCourtney, Britain Morris, Madison Peppers, Heather

Peterson, Ashley Robinson, Julian Schreurs, Kate Self, Nathan Smallwood, Christa Super, Kaylee VanEmmerick, and Daniele Williams.

The students, after learning to use Microsoft Word 2007, were given opportunities to take a practice exam in preparation for the official exam. The MOS exam reveals the students’ digital skills for the competitive global work force.

Certification denotes that a student has demonstrated proficiency in the newest of the world’s foremost desktop computer applications. Throughout the school year, these students will be able to earn additional certification in Excel and PowerPoint.

MHS STUDENTS GET together for a group photo after achieving certification. Of the 77 students who tested, 30 are now MOS certified. (photo by Molly Lindsey)

Mena FFA to host equipment auction

by Kyle Saulsbury

BRYAN MAYE DISPLAYS several pieces of old woodworking equipment such as this planer that will be among the items sold at the auction. (photo by Kyle Saulsbury)

The Mena FFA Alumni has literally fallen under the weather; its 21st Annual Mena FFA Alumni Farm Equipment Auction was originally scheduled to be held on Saturday, Feb. 5 at the Polk County Fairgrounds. Due to inclement weather that came through that weekend, the auction has been postponed.

The auctioning of items will commence at 10 am in the morning, with Tim Kiser, proprietor of Tim’s Yamaha, serving as the conductor of the event. The event is open to the public, with consignments being taken in until the day before the auction. Items to be sold can vary across a large spectrum, from vehicles to furniture to parts and materials to

tractors. Proceeds from the 10% commission from items sold will be allocated to the Mena FFA Alumni, an entity that supports scholarships, leadership camps, and other Mena FFA events. The Mena FFA Alumni has also proven to be a very important support group for the MHS FFA program, for it allows them to have a hand in helping the community and its programs during public events, such as the upcoming farm equipment auction, where members of the MHS chapter of the FFA will be able to assist by loading and unloading equipment to be sold, cleaning up the fairgrounds area for the event, and running concession stands.

MHS FFA members are looking forward to the opportunity to be involved with another Mena FFA farm auction.

Page 2

The Bear Facts -Editorial

January/February 2011

Are celebrities famous for no apparent reason?

by Flannery Wilson

What is the actual definition of a “celebrity” these days? The unofficial meaning has changed so many times over the past few years that it’s hard to even really tell. If you were to ask someone about 20 years ago, they would probably say something along the lines of, “A figure that average people can look up to; someone who has been in worldwide acclaimed movies or done something to get recognition around the world. A celebrity is someone that helps people out and is humble about his or her fame.” Today though, the meaning of a celebrity is skewed. People are famous for doing and accomplishing absolutely nothing.

Oprah Winfrey, for example, is, in my opinion, a legitimate celebrity. She grew up in a broken and poverty-stricken home, but somehow managed to put the past behind her and make herself into a household name. For the past 25 years, she has been the host of The Oprah Winfrey Show, and she now has a new TV network “O.W.N.” With her earnings, she has funded a private girls’ school in Africa, and she created the scholarship-giving Angel Network.

Another celebrity who has done well with his fame is Brad Pitt. He’s starred in several successful movies and helped produced many as well. With his success, he’s helped out children who are less fortunate and given several hours of community service. He’s also adopted children from other countries along with his partner, Angelina Jolie.

There are many celebrities, though, who don’t deserve to be famous. Take, for example, Nicole “Snookie” Polizzi, from Jersey Shore. She has literally done nothing to get herself recognized except star in reality TV and act outrageously stupid. Jersey Shore is just one pointless reality television show, but there are tons more. The Real Houswives, 16 and Pregnant, and SisterWives are just a few more examples of pointless stardom.

The media though is a big problem contributing to instant celebs, along with television.

Gossip magazines, the Internet, Facebook, and tons of other sources help make people famous for no apparent reason. I think being a celebrity should be an honor and not just a “by-chance” thing, the way it seems to be now. Celebrities shouldn’t show off their fame for the paparazzi to see and capture; they should be humble about it and add something positive to pop culture.

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF: Morgan Fletcher; NEWS EDITOR: Kyle Saulsbury; NEWS REPORTERS: Heather Eikenberg, Morgan Fletcher, Manda Ham, Dani Lindsey, Mat Meade, Justin Sattler, Krystal Saulsbury, Kyle Saulsbury, Courtney Shaw, Leonna Smith, Flannery Wilson; EDITORIAL COLUMNIST: Flannery Wilson; FEATURE PAGE EDITOR: Kyle Saulsbury; VARSITY SPORTS EDITOR: Mat Meade; SPORTS COLUMNIST: Mat Meade; SPORTS PAGE EDITOR: Mat Meade; SPORTS REPORTER: Courtney Shaw, CLUB PAGE EDITOR: Dani Lindsey; ENTERTAINMENT EDITOR/COLUMNIST: Heather Eikenberg; CHIEF PHOTOGRAPHER: Justin Sattler; ASSISTANT PHOTOGRAPHERS: Heather Eikenberg, Morgan Fletcher, Manda Ham, Dani Lindsey, Mat Meade, Kyle Saulsbury, Leonna Smith, Flannery Wilson; ADVERTISING

MANAGER: Manda Ham; CHIEF TYPIST: Dani Lindsey; ASSISTANT TYPIST: Flannery Wilson; EXCHANGE EDITOR: Manda Ham; CIRCULATION MANAGERS: Manda Ham, Leonna Smith; STAFF ARTIST: Flannery Wilson; PAGE DESIGN by Desktop Publishing Students: Alex Atchley, Nicole Bobo, Ethan Campbell, Nick Crawford, Jasper Davis, Aly Decoux, Melody Dedmon, Cassie Gear, Katelyn Graves, Manda Ham, Bradley Howard, Jennifer Howard, Aaron Johnson, Dani Lindsey, Ashley Maechler, Jordan Newman, Kyle Saulsbury, Kaitlyn Schoeppey, Phillip Schuller, Leigha Smith, Sammie Talamantez, Cecilia Thulin, Stephanie Vidrine, Daniele Williams, Marissa Willis, Flannery Wilson, and Tiffany Wise; ADVISER: Lisa Schuller

The Bear Facts, a publication of Mena High School, is published monthly October through May by MHS journalism students and is printed by the Mena Star. The Bear Facts is a member of the Arkansas Scholastic Press Association, the American Scholastic Press Association, and the Southern Interscholastic Press Association. Editorials and letters to the editor reflect the views of the authors and do not necessarily reflect those of the staff or school. All letters must be signed, and all published letters will include the author’s name.

Advertising rates are $10 per column inch. For advertising or subscription information, address all correspondence to Bear Facts, Mena High School, 700 Morrow St., Mena, Arkansas 71953.

Editorial: What’s up with Jersey Shore?

What makes a TV show interesting? What about it makes people want to never miss an episode? In today’s society apparently watching people get drunk, get in fights, and regularly take part in sexual activities with complete strangers is what is most appealing.

I’m not trying to point any fingers, but Jersey Shore has to be one of the stupidest shows ever to be on MTV or just TV in general. Why would anyone want to watch a bunch of “Guidos/Guidettes” prance around a beach shore, not particularly the Jersey Shore either, acting like idiots because in reality, the guys and girls look like fools dressed in extremely tight clothes. Maybe by being on this show they are hoping it will be their claim to fame.

For some of them that is true because they have been the topic of many commercials, talk shows, and music awards.

Nicole, also known as “Snookie,” took part in a live ball drop, where she was physically inside of the ball that fell at 12 a.m. January 1, 2011. Recently Ronnie has been on commercials promoting weight loss pills. The housemates are now famous for their daily tradition called “GTL,” which stands for gym, tan and laundry. This portrays the excessive obsession of their outward appearances. There have been nine people on the cast: Angelina, Jenni “Jwow,” Mike “The Situation,” Nicole “Snookie,” Paul “Pauly D,” Sammi “Sweetheart,” Vinny, Deena, and Ronnie. I will admit that they have successfully had two seasons come and go, and are now premiering the third. Jersey Shore is an extremely popular show, has millions of viewers around the world, but it is just outrageously vulgar.

All around, the show is nonsense and is based on complete ignorance. The housemates, I bet, are enjoying every bit of the attention and publicity, but what I’m sure they don’t realize is that they will always be remembered for being wild, crazy, and immature. But all in all, I am against the show Jersey Shore. It is pointless, and I’m sure you lose brain cells watching it.

January/February 2011

The Bear Facts - Feature

Page 3

Then and now

Bear Facts pays tribute to academic icons

by Kyle Saulsbury

The Bear Facts continues its series of tributes to MHS by paying homage this month to its teachers. The amount of time that some high school teachers have spent here often goes unappreciated, and it is because of this fact that the paper offers special attention to a select few in this month’s feature article. This school has seen thousands of students in its halls, and so have teachers. This month, The Bear Facts takes a look at four teachers who have spent a great number of years in this building, three of whom are still teaching today.

Current math educator Gerald Bates is well-known in the community for having been a teacher to many. He has been working at MHS for the past thirty-two-and-a-half years, having taught a diverse array of courses. Computer programming, 9th grade physical science, physics, trigonometry, pre-calculus, and geometry are among the classes Bates has instructed. Bates now works alongside fellow teachers and faculty who years before were once his students.

Shane Torix, Vice-President of Mena High School, Coach Pete Rose, and Annita Hendrix all once received homework grades from Mr. Bates. Of the many things he has seen in this school, he recalls a memorable event when kitchen pipes broke one winter break. The leaking water flooded the gym floor and froze, creating a warped and waving basketball court. Though being a teacher at this school leaves memories, Bates intends to retire from teaching within the next few years.

Karlene Hooker, known by many as Coach Hooker, is another well-known figure here at MHS. She has spent over thirty years teaching in Mena, and though for several years much of her day consisted of working at Mena Middle School, she always spent a portion of her day here at the high school. Hooker points out that her total years as an educator add up to thirtythree, just as many years as our current principal, Mark Shumate, has been alive. Hooker has not only been an educator, but an athletics coach as well; she has coached junior high volleyball and basketball and senior high softball for eight seasons, soccer for four years, and is now in the middle of her sixth year as bowling coach. Sherri Hines and faculty members such as Scott Bohlman and Julia Gordon have all been students of Hooker. She has made plans to retire after six more years of teaching. Those who are now in the fourth grade will be her last students. “We have a great school system,” said Hooker, looking back at her years at MHS. “I’m glad and proud to teach in Mena.”

Mitch Lankford has spent the past twenty-nine years as an educator here at this high school.

He has taught classes such as business math, Math III, computer programming, biology, physical science, and Pre-AP and AP Chemistry. A few of his students that have gone on to work at this same school are Melissa Puckett, Coach Pete Rose, Amanda Threlkeld, and Jessica Kropp.

Reflecting on his years of teaching, Lankford recalls a particular event in his career when he had “won” a donation collection competition. His class jar had been sabotaged, where large amounts of money had been added from students. As a reward, Mitch Lankford had to kiss a pig in front of the entire school. Having taught for so many years, Lankford intends on retiring within the next few years, though he says that nothing is written in stone. Lankford takes his role as an educator seriously, stating that “teachers are always willing to do more than what is required to ensure students get a good education.”

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Randy Lindsey is another example of one who had spent a great number of years at MHS. Lindsey had been an educator here for thirty-three years before retiring last summer. He had taught several subjects within the English language arts discipline, ranging from ninth to twelfth grade English and Journalism; Mr. Lindsey had been the advisor of The Bear Facts for all of the thirty-three years he had been in this building. In addition to having been one of the longest-working teachers at MHS, Lindsey is also known to many teachers as being one of the most constant. He taught in the same room, with the same desk in the same location, stationed in front of desks that had always been kept in the same arrangement. Lindsey had several thousand students pass through his door during his career, many of whom have become well-known in this community. Andy Philpot, current editor of The Mena Star, Shane Torix, and a menagerie of other high school staff such as Annita Hendrix, Judy Burnett, and Coach Heather Clark have all sat in desks in the classroom of Randy Lindsey.

These teachers have experienced a lot over their years here at MHS, and when new teachers come to take their stead at the new high school, they will be continuing a tradition long in the making.

TEACHERS SUCH AS Lankford (left), Lindsey (top right), Bates (bottom right) and Hooker have spent a combined total of over 120 years at this school. (photos from MHS Yearbook 1982)

Page 4

January/February 2011

The Bear Facts - News

Lindsey achieves National Board certification

by Dani Lindsey

Molly Lindsey, Mena High School teacher, recently joined Tonya Thacker, 9th and 10th grade counselor, in receiving National Board certification. Being National Board certified means that Lindsey has a nationwide teaching certificate. She can teach in any state without a specific license for that state. National Board recognizes effective and accomplished teachers who meet high standards based on what teachers should know and be able to do. National Board certification is valid for 10 years and can be renewed using a similar process.

The process of achieving National Board certification involves four areas of teaching that the teacher must write about. These areas include Assessment of Student Learning, Demonstration Lesson, Documented Accomplishments: Contributions to Student Learning, and Fostering Teamwork, which involves the teacher videotaping a class in which he or she helps encourage students while working in teams. Also, there are six computer

assessments which are classroom scenarios with questions that the teacher must answer in a thirty minute time frame. The process involves a lot of writing. The teacher must write about his or her own teaching and how it impacts student achievement. One requirement for certification is that the teacher has to have been teaching for a minimum of 3 years to attempt and have direct involvement with students to keep the National Board certified title.

This is Lindsey’s 23rd year to teach at Mena High School. Over these years, she has taught many business classes including Typing, Shorthand, BASIC programming, and Spreadsheets in her earlier years and now includes Computerized Business Applications and Desktop Publishing as courses. Lindsey says, “Achieving National Board certification was the most difficult academic endeavor I’ve ever undertaken as a teacher, but it was by far the most rewarding.

I learned more about myself as a teacher and about my students, and I believe I’m a much better teacher because of it.” It took Lindsey one year of the possible three to achieve certification.

MENA HIGH SCHOOL’S journalism class attends the January school board meeting to make a presentation and distribute papers to members. (photo by Krystal Saulsbury)

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Journalism class makes presentation to school board

by Kyle Saulsbury

The Bear Facts staff paid a visit to the monthly Mena Public Schools’ board meeting Jan. 18 at the MPS administrative office to deliver an address of what work was being done in the school’s paper.

The opening part of the public session of the meeting consisted of a presentation by the Journalism class where students explained their roles in creating the paper, and also spoke on behalf of others that could not attend. Staff members who spoke during the meeting were Editor-in-Chief Morgan Fletcher, Advertising Manager Manda Ham, Feature Page Editor Kyle Saulsbury, and Circulation Manager Leonna Smith.

A new addition to The Bear Facts staff, News Reporter Krystal Saulsbury, was also in attendance and took photographs of the

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MOLLY LINDSEY AIDS her students in their class assignment while vying for National Board certification. (staff photo)

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meeting. After each staff member had given an orientation to his or her position and the duties that came with it, the students shared with each school board member a copy of the latest issue of The Bear Facts.

All of the administrative board, including Superintendent Diann Gathright, were in attendance. The board meeting followed with highlights on issues such as monthly expenditures, progress in the construction of the new high school, and the renewal of the superintendant’s contract.

The Bear Facts staff members enjoyed the opportunity to share their works publicly with the school board and see that their works were appreciated, as well as to observe procedures and listen to issues assessed by the Mena Public School administrative board.

January/February 2011

The Bear Facts - News

Page 5

JAG students and teacher travel to Washington, D.C.

by Heather Eikenberg

Karen Purvis, Jobs for Arkansas Graduates (JAG) teacher at Mena High School, and two JAG students, Danielle Skinner and Kaitlyn Mitchell, were selected to join the JAG National Student Leadership Conference in Washington, D.C. MHS was ranked fourth in the nation for performance.

The JAG National Leadership Conference is an opportunity for JAG students around the country to come together and develop valuable leadership qualities and appreciation for their nation’s capital. Competitive events, leadership sessions, Washington D.C. tours, and social events are a part of this program.

Upon first arriving in Washington, D.C.,

Purvis, Skinner, and Mitchell attended a luncheon featuring guest speakers, and afterward, participated in a leadership session. On the second day, they went on a tour of D.C. and to Arlington National Cemetery. The third day was spent improving leadership skills. Skinner participated in the Employability Skills. On the fourth day Purvis, Skinner, and Mitchell enjoyed a second tour of D.C. and visited a local mall where they shopped and had dinner. Later that day, the hotel was the venue for a talent show.

These JAG students will take what they have learned from the JAG National Leadership Conference and apply it to their everyday jobs and enjoy success in the workplace.

KAITLYN MITCHELL, DANIELLE Skinner, and Karen Purvis stand outside the Capitol on their tour of Washington, D.C. (photo by Karen Purvis)

Vaughn brings home-style cooking back to Mena

by Flannery Wilson

Coming from a long line of women famous for their home-style cooking, Tammy Vaughn has opened the Mena Café to share her wonderful food. The café recently opened on Saturday, Jan. 15. On the menu, one can find dishes such as pot roast, homemade chicken and dumplings, chicken strips, and many more. Every meal comes with 2 sides and rolls with a choice of honey or regular butter. There are also many

different burger options, kid’s selections, and many mouthwatering desserts to choose from. Vaughn said that she not only wanted to open her restaurant to honor her family cooking, but it was something she enjoyed doing as well. The Mena Café’s hours are from 10:30-8 pm Monday-Thursday, 10:309 pm Friday and Saturday, and 10:30-3 pm on Sundays. Stop in for a delicious, warm home cooked meal with great service at the Mena Café, located in the same building as Penny Pinchers on Hwy 71 S. in Mena.

TAMMY VAUGHN WELCOMES customers to Mena’s newest restaurant. (photo

by Flannery Wilson)

MENA HIGH BAND students gather with band director Charles Morgan after attending Four-States competition. Students who placed include Jordan Fuschberger, Emily Callahan, Heidi Faught, Rachel Roberts, Justin Wiseman, and Taylor Rook. (photo by Dani Lindsey)

Page 6

January/February 2011 The Bear Facts -

Seniors dance “In the City”

by Krystal Saulsbury

Mena High School’s Winter Formal has been a tradition since 1988, allowing seniors a once-only opportunity to bring any date. The Formal was held at the Ouachita Country Club on Jan. 8 and started at 8 p.m.

The theme for this dance was “Twilight in the City,” which displayed a New York City landscape.

After attendees signed in, Rita Keener photographed groups and individuals in front of the landscape. Students were then able to purchase a DVD containing all of the pictures for a price of $5.

New to Mena residents, DJ Scott Mills compiled music and served as DJ

for the evening, coming all the way from Texarkana. The music covered all genres, from country to hip-hop to the latest in pop culture. The dance floor was packed, and many seniors came to have a great time; to that end their wish came true. Strobe lights, hanging balloons, and tube lights enhanced the atmosphere by adding a realistic vibe to the New York City setting.

The entire event was organized by senior high parents. The Formal was funded by a bake sale at a football game, and an autographed basketball raffle signed by all 2010-2011 Senior high Ladycats and Bearcats.

The Winter Formal was definitely a slice of the city brought to our small town.

NEW YORK CITY landscape enhances the mood. (p

JASPER DAVIS AND Melody Dedmon slow dance together. (photo by Kyle Saulsbury)

SENIORS RAISE THE roof. (photo by

ROCKIN’ IT OUT to a brand new beat. (photo by Kyle Saulsbury)

CLARK TRUCKS AND Jamie Thacker look eye to eye. (photo by Kyle Saulsbury)

January/February 2011 - Winter Formal

Page 7

photo by Billy Howard)

BILLY HOWARD, MICHELLE Zimmerman, and Kayla Bird pose for the camera. (photo by Billy Howard)

RMCC Scholarship Information ETHAN CAMPBELL AND Flannery Wilson do the Cha Cha Slide. (photo by Kyle Saulsbury) Kyle Saulsbury)

Students interested in attending RMCC for the Fall 2011 semester need to submit their scholarship applications by March 1st. Here is a breakdown of the criteria for each scholarship: RMCC Academic * Board of Trustees - ACT 22 and GPA** of 3.75 or higher * President - ACT 22 and GPA** of 3.5 to 3.74 * Vice Presidents - ACT 22 and GPA** of 3.00 to 3.49 ** Note that the GPA is High School GPA. Documents needed for academic scholarships are: * Essay describing goal and objective * High School Transcript Foundation and Scott Berry Memorial scholarships * No ACT or GPA restriction Documentation needed for Foundation Scholarship are: * Essay describing goal and objective * 1 letter of reference * High School Transcript Documentation needed for Scott Berry Memorial Foundation Scholarship are: * Essay describing goal and objective * 3 letters of references * High School Transcript

PAUL MINER AND Ashley Ford dance to a slow song. (photo by Billy Howard)

RMCC will host the College Goal Sunday event February 20 from 2 pm until 4 pm. College Goal Sunday is designed to help students complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Students also receive additional assistance with the Arkansas Academic Challenge and other state scholarships. RMCC encourages students and parents to come on campus February 20 and receive assistance from Financial Aid Professionals. Students and parents will need to bring their 2010 tax return and value of current assets, if applicable.

Page 8

The Bear Facts - Sports

2011 Baseball Schedule Date 2/28 3/1 3/3-5 3/7 3/11-12 3/14 3/17 3/18 3/25 3/26 3/29 4/1 4/5 4/8 4/9 4/11 4/12 4/15 4/19 4/21 4/22 4/29

Opponent Mt. Ida Arkadelphia Nashville Tournament Lake Hamilton Shiloh Tournament Subiaco DeQueen Waldron* Ozark Sheridan Subiaco* Dardenelle* Bauxite Dover* Mena JV Tournament Pulaski Academy Booneville* Clarksville* Horatio DeQueen Pottsville* District Tournament*

Site Time @Mt. Ida 4:00 @Mena 5:00 @Nashville TBA @Lake Hamilton 4:30 @Shiloh TBA @Subiaco 4:00 @DeQueen 4:30 @Mena 4:30 @Mena 1:00 @Sheridan 2:00 @Home 4:30 @Dardenelle 5:00 @Bauxite 4:00 @Mena 4:30 @Mena TBA @Pulaski Academy 4:00 @Booneville 4:30 @Clarksville 4:30 @Horatio 4:00 @Mena 4:30 @Pottsville 4:30 @Clarksville TBA

Team V,JV V,JV Varsity V,JV Varsity Varsity V,JV V,JV V,JV V,JV V,JV V,JV V,JV V,JV JV V,JV V,JV V,JV V,JV V,JV V,JV Varsity

January/February 2011

Bearcats and Ladycats rule the lanes

by Mat Meade and Courtney Shaw

The Mena Bearcat and Ladycat bowling teams have been competing against the Acorn Tigers and the Van-Cove Hornets during the past two months. The first match of the season ensued on Dec. 14, 2010 with the Bearcats defeating the Acorn Tigers and the Van-Cove Hornets with a score of 1899.

Ryan Lowery led the team with a high score of 159. The Mena Ladycats won as well with a score of 1586. Kate Self secured the high score with a 144.

The match scheduled for Dec. 11 was canceled, but play resumed on Dec. 18. The Bearcats won with total pin fall scores of 2009, Van-Cove 1782, and Acorn 1719. The Ladycats won 1726, withVan-Cove scoring 1651, and Acorn 1470. This combined score included two regular games and two bakers’ games. R.C. Sims had the high score of 193 for the Bearcats and Kate Self earned 168 for the Ladycats.

The Bearcats and Ladycats were back in action Jan.8. The Mena Bearcat bowlers

won with a combined score of 1918. VanCove and Acorn tied for second with a score of 1737. The Ladycats won again as well with a total score of the Ladycats 1805; Van-Cove had a 1717, and Acorn finished with 1460. Jarrod Ryan held the high score of 167 for the Bearcats, and Lydia Rhodes had a 195 for the Ladycats.

The Mena bowling team faced VanCove and Acorn again the following Saturday, Jan. 15, at the Pine Bowl. The Bearcats beat Acorn and Van-Cove again with a score of 1913, 1731, and 1681 respectively. Ryan Lowery led the Bearcats with a score of 201. The Ladycats competed against the Lady Tigers and the Lady Hornets as well. Van-Cove finished with a score of 1804, defeating the Ladycats by 187 pins. Acorn finished in last with a final score of 1613. Lydia Rhodes led the team with a score of 172 pins.

The Bearcat and Ladycat bowling teams will compete in the regional bowling tournament on Feb. 10 at Fort Smith.

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THE LADYCAT BOWLERS prepare to compete against the Van Cove Lady Hornets and the Acorn Lady Tigers. (photo by Robin Castor)

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MENA BEARCAT BOWLERS get ready for a match against the Van-Cove Hornets and the Acorn Tigers. (photo by Robin Castor)

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January/February 2011

Page 9

The Bear Facts - Sports

Senior high basketball shoots for a playoff shot

by Mat Meade and Courtney Shaw

The Mena Bearcat basketball team’s season is well underway. If the Bearcats keep winning, they will play in the 2011 district tournament held Feb. 14-19 at Subiaco Academy. Head Coach Bobby Tedder stated that, “The Bearcats went to the Regional tournament last year, and played the number 1 team in the Southeast as well as the number one team in 4A, losing by ten points.”

Mena’s most recent tournament was held in Danville. The Little Johns had home court advantage, but that didn’t pull through for them. The Bearcats won the contest.

Mena competed in three games over the course of the tournament and emerged undefeated. The Bearcats finished the tournament with a number 1 seed.

The Bearcat’s season comes with some big wins and some disappointing losses.

The game against the Subiaco Trojans on December 7, 2010 was one of the wins that head coach Bobby Tedder was extremely satisfied with, but Mena has suffered losses from Dardanelle, Dover, Clarksville, and Pottsville this season that have really stung.

Head Coach Bobby Tedder stated about this season, “We are about to start our last cycle through conference play. We have hit a few bumps so far this season, but when we get over that hump, the end result will be a lot different.”

The Bearcats have had a few rough spots this season, but Mena will overcome their obstacles and they will play better as the year progresses. Tedder also said, “When the district tournament starts, you can throw all records out the window because it all comes down to match-ups and who’s playing the best basketball game.”

The Mena Bearcats are excited to compete in the playoffs on February 14-19.

SENIOR BEARCAT AUSTIN Hurst shoots a jump shot during the home game against the Clarksville Panthers. (photo by Mat Meade)

SENIOR LADYCAT SHELBY Daugherty lines up to shoot two free throws against the Clarksville Panthers. (photo by Mat Meade)

2011 Ladycat Softball Schedule Date 2/28 3/1 3/3-5

Opponent Dierks Ashdown Ashdown Tournament 3/7 Mansfield 3/8 Horatio 3/10-12 Southwest Arkansas Smash 3/14 Bauxite 3/15 Southside 3/16 Foreman 3/28 DeQueen 4/1 Dardenelle* 4/4 Northside 4/5 Waldron* 4/8 Dover* 4/12 Booneville* 4/15 Clarksville* 4/18 Greenwood 4/20 Jessieville 4/22 Pottsville* 4/25 Dierks 4/28-5/2 District Tournament* 5/5-7 Regional Tournament 5/13-21 State Tournament

Site @Mena @Mena @Ashdown

Time 4:30 4:30 TBA

Team V,JV V,JV Varsity

@Mansfield @Mena @Horatio

4:30 4:30 TBA

V,JV V,JV Varsity

@Bauxite @Fort Smith @Mena @DeQueen @Dardenelle @Fort Smith @Mena @Mena @Booneville @Clarksville @Mena @Mena @Pottsville Dierks @Clarksville

4:00 4:00 4:30 4:30 4:30 4:00 4:30 4:30 4:30 5:00 4:30 4:00 4:30 4:00 TBA

V,JV V,JV V,JV V,JV V,JV V,JV V,Jv V,JV V,JV V,JV V,JV V,JV V,JV Varsity Varsity

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Page 10

The Bear Facts - Entertainment

January/February 2011

Molding character

Theatre arts students are bee-ing encouraging

by Kyle Saulsbury

The Mena High School theatre department has resumed its once-abandoned bee skit program. This program is a series of skits that are written, rehearsed, and then acted out at Louise Durham Elementary.

These acts have been performed by many theatre arts students, with Michael Berry being a constant in just about all of them.

The skits have been carried out on a monthly basis. The purpose for the performance at Louise Durham Elementary is to promote positive character and ethics through brief reenactments that highlight particular behaviors.

The skits have been designed to revolve around a consistent bee character, often played by Senia Garcia or Michael Berry. The original scripts, provided by Linda Collins, Louise Durham Elementary Counselor, involved a bee character. An actual bee costume was provided by Collins as well. For those with good memories, some may recall that a bee costume has been used in the past for pep rallies preceding

games against Oak Grove. The same outfit is used for the sketches.

These bee skits were started two years ago by Michael Berry and Pilar Fairless, with occasional stand-ins by T.J. Schoeppey.

Louise Durham students attended these performances which highlighted the importance of several points of character.

Some of these included responsibility, respect, honesty, citizenship, and kindness.

They were performed faithfully on a monthly basis by these students, but when the next school year rolled around, the theatre department never picked it up.

According to Jessica Kropp, though, things will be different this year. Continued

by Michael Berry, the skits are back in business, with one being churned out approximately every month. Berry works on these sketches in conjunction with Theatre Arts II students who are willing to volunteer their time to be a part of the acts. This gives the students of MHS an opportunity to demonstrate the magnitude of maintaining upstanding character to younger students.

Mena Ford, Inc. 1103 Hwy. 71 North Mena, AR 71953 (479) 394-2214 anthonyefird@sbcglobal.net F-150

ANTHONY EFIRD Sales Manager

Lunch and Dinner Specials Open Sun-Thur 11am - 9pm

KING RANCH

Fri & Sat 11am - 10pm

PLEASE DON’T DRINK AND DRIVE

1100 N. Highway 71 Mena, AR 71953 Phone: (479) 243-0822 Fax: (479) 243-0727

JUSTIN SATTLER, MICHAEL Berry, and Aaron Armstrong emphasize the importance of fairness to Louise Durham students. (photo by Kyle Saulsbury)

The Social Network delivers

by Taylor Betz, guest journalist

Controversy surrounds as to whether or not the film, The Social Network, is 100% accurate. Regardless, director David Fincher’s (Fight Club) drama is essentially the pinnacle of class-A film making. The film is about Mark Zuckerberg’s rise to fame as he creates and develops the popular social networking website, Facebook.

Zuckerberg is portrayed by Jesse Eisenberg (Zombieland), and while most critics have claimed Eisenberg to be akin to Michael Cera in the aspect that he consistently plays shy, awkward, youths, Eisenberg is anything but in this case. As Mark Zuckerberg, Eisenberg creates a sort of intensity that can only be found in self-aware creative geniuses, but he never overplays the character making him larger than life, for Zuckerberg isn’t a terribly wild individual.

The film’s primary conflict comes in Zuckerberg’s tension with his friend Eduardo Saverin (played excellently by future ‘Spiderman,’ Andrew Garfield), who helps Zuckerberg sky-rocket the website. Due to the astounding chemistry between the two, it’s easy to believe that Zuckerberg’s and Saverin’s friendship as shown is genuine, which makes it all the harder to watch it fall apart as fame and money come their way. Also notable are the

Winklevoss twins, who originally enlisted Zuckerberg to create their social networking site in advance of Zuckerberg going solo.

A legal battle ensues, arguing who is the true creative creator behind Facebook.

The Winklevoss twins are both portrayed

by Armie Hammer using special effects which manage to not distract from what is a fantastic performance.

Creating an exciting story out of the origin of a website in which the screen is constantly spammed with “Farmville” requests seems like no simple feat, but David Fincher manages to make it look so easy. Maybe it’s that solid script full of fascinating monologues and witty banter (courtesy of Aaron Sorkin) or maybe it’s Nine Inch Nails’ front man Trent Reznor’s collaborative score with Atticus Ross that blends a typical film score with a nightclub to create a multi-emotional mood setter, or maybe it’s the ensemble cast that includes pop singer Justin Timberlake (playing former Napster CEO Sean Parker who assists Zuckerberg to global fame).

In truth, it’s all of these combined to create a mesmerizing motion picture that makes the mundane exciting, all with a few good performances and appropriate directing. No matter how you look at it, The Social Network is magnificent.

The Bear Facts - Entertainment

January/February 2011

Page 11

Students share worst dates ever Bearcats dedicate hits for V- Day

by Leonna Smith

Aren’t dates supposed to be fun and a time to remember? Well, that’s not always the case. Has a date ever gone so wrong that time should be rewound and the experience forgotten? Mena High School students share some of their terrible, yet memorable, experiences.

“One time I met my boyfriend at Magic Springs for the day. The day was going great, until I was sitting down on the grass.

I pulled him down to sit beside me and he completely freaked out! Turns out he was allergic to grass and would break out in hives if he touched it.” – Adrienne “First of all, we went to the New China to have dinner. As we were eating, his face grew pale. Then all of a sudden he hurled in my face and in our food. Then the restaurant owners came over to offer to pay for our food. We went to his house to clean up. As we were there, I also go to meet his parents. He brought me a t-shirt and boy shorts. After I put on the oversized clothes that swallowed me, we then decided to get a movie. We rented the movie we wanted and started watching it. The disc was so scratched that it wouldn’t play, and as I go to leave he comes with me. I stopped and a dog came running and started humping my leg. But needless to say I’m still with him, despite.” –Anonymous “All throughout middle school I had a huge crush on this guy. So every middle school dance I would try to get him to ask me to dance.

Finally it happened! It was a slow song, and I was really excited that I was going to get to talk to him. Only when I opened my mouth to say something, I realized I couldn’t move.

Someone chewed about 10 pieces of gum and left it on the floor and it was stuck to my foot.

Ugh.” –Anonymous “My crush and I went to Lum and Abner for a date. We walked around looking at all the

stands. We came to one stand that had lotion for sale. So to make me smell all nice and sweet, I decided to try some of the tester lotions. As I rubbed the lotion on my hand it started to get hot and burn my hands. Tturns out it was lotion for arthritis. It smelled like medicine, but my crush thought that someone had farted. It was terrible.” –Tiffany “Last year the guy I liked since the 5th grade invited me to the fair. So I went out and bought a totally epic shirt. It was legit! I wore it on our date. Even my crush thought it was epic. After riding all the rides we stopped to get a quick snack then we went and rode the…Fireball! When we got off, I felt so sick and dizzy, but I turned to him to say, “Let’s go again!!” But before I could finish my sentence, he vomits all over my epic shirt!

I haven’t talked to him since…worst date… ever!” –Anonymous “I was with a boy. He forcefully shoved his tongue halfway down my throat. He had just eaten a chili dog, fries, and chocolate milk.” –Austin “One fine evening, actually it was three in the morning, a good friend of mine showed up in my driveway. I didn’t know what to do, so I snuck out. We drove down the road and almost ran into the river. My parents thought I was kidnapped so they called the cops. My dad found us in the road and stared to beat him up. Then, we got to my house, and I sat on the couch as I watched him get frisked by the cops. Two years later we spent another evening in the bathroom, and he held my hair as I threw up, and we shared a lovely conversation.

I am glad to say we are still friends.” – Anonymous Hopefully you will not have the bad luck these students had. So just remember this Valentine’s Day when your date isn’t going exactly the way you planned it would, it could always be worse.

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ATM LOCATIONS MENA

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Established 1934

by Justin Sattler

Addie Bush- Hip Hop Chick by Forever the Sickest Kids to Alyssa Odom and Teenage Dream by Katy Perry to Jordan Butterfield Alex Castro- Fireflies by Owl City to Lake Philpot and “Oh, Betty!” to Jennifer Howard Alyvia Castillo- My Humps by The-Black-Eyed-Peas to Akina Sibbett Andrea Caldwell- Paradise by Lil’ Wayne to Bennetta Morris and Shawty Like Mine

by Bow Wow featuring Chris Brown to Rachael Clemons Billy Howard- Dancing In the Dark by Lady GaGa to Kayla Bird and One Time by Justin Bieber to Emily Badgett Cody Edwards- Drop the World by Lil’ Wayne featuring Eminem to Danny Arceneau and Jingle Bombs by Achmed “the Dead Terrorist” to Justin Sattler Dustin Pitts- High School Never Ends by Bowling for Soup to the class of ’11 and Nothin’ On You by B.o.B. featuring Bruno Mars to Marissa Beaver Emily McCoy- Here Comes the Sun by The Beatles to her sister, Mary and What a Wonderful World by Louis Armstrong to her other sister, Becky Jennifer Howard- The Call by Regina Spektor to Lacie Keener Jenya King- We No Speak Americano by Yolanda Be Cool to Rogelio Salguero and Stuck Like Glue by Sugarland to Tasha Giles Jerry Allen- In My Room by Insane Clown Posse to Haily Guire Jon McAllister- Cold Wind Blows by Eminem and Psychosocial by Slipknot to Justin Sattler Justin Sattler- Own It by The-Black-Eyed-Peas to everbody (especially Alex Kaiser) and Bass Down Low by The Cataracts featuring Dev to Jon McAllister and Billy Howard Krystal Saulsbury- Can’t Take My Eyes Off You by Lady Antebellum to Paul Pruett and Pretty Boy Swag by Soulja Boy to Josh Marshall Michael Cabello- Shimmer by Fuel to the COD Squad Michael Howard- Dear God by Avenged Sevenfold and Lindsay, Quit Lollygagging

by Chiodos to Austin Taylor Stroud Michele Zimmerman- Ridin’ Solo by Jason Derulo to “anonymous” Paul Miner- I Want To Hold Your Hand by The Beatles to Ashley Ford and The Trial

by Pink Floyd to everybody Rachael Clemons- Sexy, Can I by Ray J featuring Yung Berg to Andrea Caldwell and Everytime We Touch by Cascada to “you know who you are” Raymond Leach- Space Bound by Eminem to Alex Castro and Seduction by Eminem to Lake Philpot

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Page 12

January/February 2011

I Y S N P L A P M N T P

H K E K J X L B P O H Z

J F L C A Z L I Q M T P

X E N B T W B T V D E I

H R E T S O F A K N D T

Y U T N O G L E S B Y T

E P Z O D M X C N K H O

T N T S E D C Q U V P C

S N B R C I I G Q U E S

Emily Callahan 02-05 Rachael Clemons 02-11 Akina Sibbett 02-16 Myranda Vaughn 02-22

Jeremiah Foster 02-06 Edward Yahn 02-10 Alyson Decoux 02-14 Brianna Anderson 02-21 Megan Moon 02-21 Kalen Hastey 02-23

N H L H K G A Q H E T I

O O X F F M C Y X L E T

K Y E S D N I L H C B C

K I U T J F Y L G X B E

X A R M S T R O N G I K

N N H G U A V F X T S X

A O R E O Q B A E W U L

H O G D U W W V C E B Q

O M Q N X R Y A H N N T

E A C A T V A S O O I Q

H R A A L E R T D O H K

S Z S Y V O G T W M G K

Candice Cassell 02-06 Ben Lindsey 02-16 Samantha Hill 02-19 Aaron Armstrong 02-25

Kristen Gray 02-10 Alisa Kincaid 02-13 Shaaylyne Scott 02-17 Corey Moon 02-21 Malachi McGee 02-22 Christopher Oglesby 02-27

DESIGNING TOMORROW TODAY

Vaughn Engineering, Inc.

Martin & Cindy Knittig, Owners

Consulting Engineers

Greg A. Vaughn, P.E. President

403 DeQueen Street (479) 394-2885 Mena, Arkansas 71953 ofďŹ ce@vaughneng.com

Take Out or Dine In (479) 394-6201

Northside Shopping Center Mena, Ar 71953

Freshmen

M N S O R Q H X W S I X

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N R A G J X A S W B R S

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Q G C R X C N A T R S B

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The Bear Facts -Sports Y Q U H M C R D F E L D

A J A S S C H U L L E R

E X A H O H P L R C X I

Z E G R R X A E O W S D

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K L W K I U G F B L I Y

R T I E S B B R D D B P

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D E A N S R R J E F X T

L O D R S M O J C N Q O

A S H E A T H U Y C A O

G A Z U S Z O H D Z L L

Devin Fielder 02-08 James Howard II 02-11 Michael Butterfield 02-24

Natalie Rose 02-01 Kaylie Stroud 02-10 Claire Williamson 02-13 Cody Leach 02-17 Tyler Lane 02-22

B E W V B Q T E V R Q T

J E D W C I I T H A P E

S S K L M W X T S W V W

T O F D E U G U U O G Y

X R K U U I L B B H K N

J C J S B L F A J B G E

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O Q W I L L I A M S O N

H C A E L R C R T I W D

G U Z Y I B S G O D G R

O G I K A H Y H H S J E

G A E M O W G T P Q E W

Bennetta Morris 02-08 Adrianna Bush 02-20 Adrienne Rose 02-24

Rebecca Drew 02-04 Taylor Schuller 02-11 Jordan Dean 02-17 Ethan Heath 02-22 Rogelio Salguero 02-23