Ranger Rocket THE STUDENT NEWSPAPER OF NORTHWEST MISSISSIPPI COMMUNITY COLLEGE
SENATOBIA, MISS.
VOL. 82 • NO. 4 • RANGERROCKET.COM
THURSDAY, DEC. 4, 2014
Final exams set for Dec. 9-16 By Lauren Benton & Larry Mason
Finals at Northwest have arrived. That means the Ranger Bookstore will be buying back used books, students will be completing the clearnace process and dead week will occur within residence halls. Finals week is Dec. 9-16. Before students are eligible to take final exams, they must be cleared of all fines and fees that they were charged during the semester. Clearance began Dec. 3 and will run through Dec. 5. “Students can check in books and return school items, such as sports and band equipment to the library,” Maggie Moran, director of Learning Resources, said. Fines and fees are to be paid on the second floor of the McCormick Building in the Business
Office. According to Jennifer Luna, accounts receivable clerk, there is an option so that students can pay their fines and fees online at northwestms.edu, by clicking on myNWCC under outstanding fees. Although you can pay these fines online, students must make sure to stop by the business office to recieve a clearance slip. Students must have clearance slips signed before they are allowed to take final exams. Book buy-back will be held Dec.11-16 from 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m. According to Joel Boyles, director of Union Services, various books will be bought back. This includes hardback books and books that are not being upgraded next semester. Books that have access
codes will not be purchased. A separate table will be set up in the bookstore for the books that the Ranger Bookstore will not buy back. Students who reside in residence halls will have dead week from Dec. 1-8, until final exams week. Dead week means: • No open dorm • No visitors (this means no one but residents of your residence hall may visit) • No overnight guests Quiet hours are enforced 24/7, so that each student can be focused on studying for final exams. Residents must leave their dorms within 12 hours of their last exam and no later than 4 p.m. on Tuesday, Dec. 16. Students who are returning to the same
CLEARANCE is the key !
What is clearance? must have paid all fees return all books to library
Have no outstanding equipment to be returned
When is clearance? December 3-5 (8:30am-11:45am and 1:00pm-3:15pm)
What do you need to complete clearance? all fees and campus violations paid All checked out items returned to the library All uniforms and equipment returned to the department
Students must complete this process before they will be allowed to take exams! rooms next semester need to make sure all electronics are unplugged and all valuables are taken home. Any items that could spoil or rot need to be
thrown away and trash needs to be thrown in the waste containers located outside of the dorm. Also make sure that windows are locked and blinds are down,
turned open. Last, but not least, make sure to turn off all lights and doors lock.
Ranger mascot returns after 30 years By Lauren Benton & Kreneice Reid
The Ranger mascot poses with cheerleaders in the 1982 yearbook.
The Ranger mascot, “Danger,” made his grand comeback after being gone for a little over 30 years at the basketball home opener against Mid-South during the half-time show of the men’s game. Liesl Mote, sponsor of the Ranger cheer squad, campaigned and petitioned to bring back the mascot.
According to Mote, he is on scholarship and a part of the cheer squad as well. “I think he has added a ton of spirit to the basketball and fans already,” Mote said. Danger will not only be at all of the home men and women’s basketball games, but he will be making appearances at all of the
home and away football games next fall. He will also be at other student athletic events around campus as requested, according to Mote. The mascot seems to know quite a few moves and interacted with the cheer squad and fans very well. Students cheered him on as he glided across the court doing several back
flips and then landed into doing the “worm.” “The mascot is funny and smooth. I’d like to see more of him during the half time presentation,” D’Javontai Walton, from Horn Lake who is studying exercise science, said.
Danger, Northwest’s mascot, can now be seen on the sideline of athletic and student events. (Photo by Kreneice Reid)
INDEX Opinion • 2 News • 3, 8 Arts & Life • 4, 5 Sports • 6, 7
Read the newspaper online at Rangerrocket.com
CONNECT WITH US @TheRangerRocket @NorthwestMSCC
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OPINION
2 • December 4, 2014
Senatobia, Miss.
Where you life should be headed in your 20s
Oishi
By Lauren Benton
I was scrolling down my Instagram timeline the other day, and I came across this quote that said, “Nothing will ruin your 20s more than thinking you should have your life together already.” I also scroll down my timeline on Instagram and see babies and engagement rings, and I think to myself, “Wait a second. These people are my age.” I sit in awe at the fact there are people my age having children and settling down in a house. I have nothing against it if they are truly happy and they feel like it is what they want, but whatever happened to exploring and figuring yourself out? Can you do that with a two-month-old baby by your side or picking out wedding invitations? I can’t even figure out what I want for breakfast, let alone for another person. Is this generation rushing to adulthood? My answer is yes. What I question is where are they getting the finances to support those babies or buying all of the things a wedding necessitates? Sure the
idea of a child to love is nice, but are you willing to step up to the plate and support him/her? Diapers run $12-$40, according to Walmart. com, then you have to include food, clothing and not to mention car seats. I think I make my point. When you are 20 years old, you can barely take care of yourself let alone another human being who can do nothing for itself. Engagement and marriage is meant for mature adults who are ready to make a lifelong commitment to one another. The vows read, “til’ death do us part.” Do you know how much meaning is put behind those five little words? That means you are making a commitment to be with that one person for the rest of your life and be faithful in the process. Half of these boys do not know the first thing about how to commit to something that big. So what makes you think he will commit to you? If you have found your soul mate at the age of 20, then I commend you and wish you nothing but happiness. All
I am saying is that you have plenty of time to figure out who you want to dedicate your life to, so there is not rush at all. Go through college, have some fun with your girlfriends or guy friends and let the rest fall into place. We only get a short amount of time to be this young, so why put that much pressure on ourselves to find “the one,” there is enough pressure from finals and research papers as it is. We are so caught up in the idea that we have to be established, it is like our lives are on a race track, we have total control of the car and breaks and can slow down anytime we want. At this age, there are so many important decisions that last for the rest of our lives that when we are 30 or 40, it is harder for us to change the past. Just make smart decisions at this age, and don’t take life too fast. Enjoy because not each day is a promised one and remember that there is no time limit on decision making.
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Northwest mourns another student loss Taylor Glenn Hudson, a freshman student from Coldwater died on Nov.
22 from a sudden illness. Hudson’s funeral was held Nov. 29 at 10
a.m. at the Hernando Funeral Home. To learn more about
Hudson, visit Facebook and type his full name into the search box to
view an attached slideshow presentation.
“What would you like to see more of in the Ranger Rocket?” ”What would you like to see more of in the Ranger Rocket?”
By Lauren Benton, Kenn Falkner & Kreneice Reid
“A new car.”
“A new wardrobe.”
“A new cell phone.”
“To win the lottery.”
“What is your Chistmas wish?”
Jalen King Sophomore • General College Independence
Amber Swindle Sophmore • Elementary Education Batesville
Shelbie Walker Sophomore • Psychology Grenada
Ryan Maniccia Sophomore • Psychology Long Beach, Miss.
Ranger Rocket
The Ranger Rocket is published monthly during the regular academic sessions by students at Northwest Mississippi Community College
Northwest Mississippi Community College Senatobia • Mississippi
STAFF
ADVISER Carroll Gunn Huebner
Editor Lauren Benton Sports Section Editor Kenn Falkner Lifestyle Section Editor Kreneice Reid Staff Reporters Cameron Jones Larry Mason Statement of Responsibility
Andrew McDonald Corey McKinney Samantha Whittle Gabrielle Williams
SPONSORS Sarah Sapp Julie Bauer LaJuan Tallo Lindsay Crawford Kevin Maloney
ADVERTISING & NEWS E-mail: rangerrocket1@northwestms.edu or rangerrocket2@northwestms.edu Telephone: (662) 562- 3275 Advertising materials should be submitted to: jrbauer@northwestms.edu
Letters to the Editor
Address all materials to : The Ranger Rocket NWCC Drawer 7039 4975 Hwy. 51 N. Senatobia, MS 38668 The Ranger Rocket is located in the Ann Y. Whitten Media Center in Yalobusha Hall on the Senatobia campus. The Ranger Rocket is printed by The Panolian in Batesville.
The Ranger Rocket encourages letters to the editor. Letters should be typed, double-spaced and signed by the author. Letters should include a name, address and phone number. This information will be withheld upon request. All letters are subject to editing for length and clarity. Submit letters to: rangerrocket1@northwestms.edu
Northwest Mississippi Community College supports and encourages an atmosphere of responsible discussion through student publications. Funding for publications is provided by the General Fee that students pay each semester by monies budgeted by the College for their support. Designated by the administration — advisers, college employees who are competent in their fields — provide an environment in which student editors and staff members have opportunities to develop journalistic and literary skills. Insuring the integrity, quality and fiscal responsibility of the publications, advisers offer guidance and supervision, while providing First Amendment guarantees to publications staffs. The College administration supports the efforts of participants to be creative, unbiased, fair, intelligent, and responsible in being representative of and speaking for the student body. Affirmative Action Please visit the Northwest website at www.northwestms.edu/affirmativeaction to view the College’s Notice of Non-Discrimination, Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action. Northwest Mississippi Community College is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges to award the Associate of Arts degree, the Associate of Applied Science degree, and certificates in career education. Contact the Commission on Colleges at 1866 Southern Lane, Decatur, GA, 30033-4097, or call (404) 679-4500 for questions about the accreditation of Northwest Mississippi Community College.
NEWS
3 • December 4, 2014
Catholic Student Association welcomes speaker
Senatobia, Miss.
Former student writes thriller novel By Lauren Benton
The Northwest Catholic Student Association (CSA) welcomed Fran Lavelle, Director of Campus Ministry, Dept. of Formational Ministries, from the Roman Catholic Diocese of Jackson to their November meeting. Lavelle spoke to the group about growing their membership and connecting with other students. The CSA meets the last Monday of the month each semester at 5:30 p.m. in McLendon Union. Pictured left to right are Lavelle, Seth Moore, Brittany Terry, Michelle Terry, Julie Correro, sponsor and Richard Correro. (Submitted photo)
Art exhibition on display in Fine Arts building By Larry Mason
The Fine Arts Department at Northwest puts on art exhibitions of students’ and alumni works of art every semester. Currently, on display in the Fine Arts building are two artists who are alumni of Northwest. “There are two very passionate artists’ works being showcased right now in the fine arts building on campus,” Ashley Chavis, art instructor, said. Andrew Smith, a Northwest alumnus, who is currently a student at Ole Miss, is one of the artists whose work is on
exhibit in the Fine Arts building. Smith’s attention to detail and love for his craft is apparent in all of his sculptures. “I am truly lucky to be an artist,” Smith said. Also in the exhibit are works by Ernest Sumner Forward, Northwest alumni and visiting assistant professor of ceramics at Ole Miss. Forward’s spin on pottery is very vibrant with color and deeper soulful meanings. “My inspiration for this work is derived from my
local surroundings and experiences in Mississippi; I chose to capture significant life experiences in my work as a methodology to keep it fresh, and retain my roots and values,” Forward said. Both artists will be showcased throughout the rest of the semester. Students are encouraged to come by and pay homage to some local art. Prices for these artist’s works are affordable and do vary.
Cosmetology programs offers services to students and public By Kreneice Reid
The Cosmetology program offers cosmetology services to Northwest students, faculty, staff and the public. They began offering their services on the third week of October. Services are offered MondayFriday from 9:30 a.m-2 p.m and will continue throughout the semester. Both Northwest students and the public can receive a discount and walk-ins are welcomed. According to Corine H. Newsom, a cosmetology instructor, discounted cosmetology services have been offered to Northwest students since the late 50s. “We want to encourage Northwest students to support the services that we offer at Northwest, just like they support the football and basketball teams. When a client receives services from our students, we closely monitor them by advising the student, making suggestions and walking them through step by step,” Danita Denson, a cosmetology
instructor, said. “We would not allow any customer to get their hair messed up, because we must uphold the representation of Northwest and we also want those clients to follow our students when they reach the professional work force.” According to Newsom, the cosmetology business has done well and reached the goals expected. The business flourishes during the spring semester, because the students are adopting more skills and are able to offer more services independently. According to Denson, manicures, pedicures, hair coloring and cutting seems to be the most favored service by clients. A rotation sheet requires that each cosmetology student must perform a number of services while in the program. When a client calls to schedule an appointment, Denson and Newsom refer to the rotation sheet and select the cosmetology student whom they feel is best
capable to perform the service unless the client personally requests a student. Each student must have 240 training clock hours complete and must know safety rules and sanitation and infection control before they are elgible to perform their services this includes chemical relaxers, hair coloring and cutting. To receive their license in cosmetology as a certificate from Northwest, students must complete a total of 1500 hours. “The cosmetology program gives me the hands-on training that I more than likely wouldn’t get somewhere else. Not only am I learning different techniques but I’m also learning how to manage myself and how to prepare myself for my future,” Dakota Holland a cosmetology student said. For more information on how to schedule an appointment call 662562-3368.
Gabrielle Boyd attended her last semester at Northwest in 2013, when she wrote a supernatural, fantasy thriller novel, Howls of Chaos, while attending classes as a full-time student. Boyd transferred to The University of Southern Mississippi, where she now majors in broadcast journalism. Boyd’s novel was recently published as an eBook at Barnes and Noble. It is also on eSentral, Scribd and two other sites. It will be available on 14 other sites, including Amazon and iBookstore. It all began one day when Boyd sat down and decided to write a book. “I would sit down after class, when all my homework was done and a character would pop into my head. Before I knew it, it had become a novel,” Boyd said. Searching for publishers was a struggle, but Boyd persevered and did not give up. Being an unknown writer, it was difficult for her to find a publisher that would give her a chance. Finally,
Gabrielle Boyd, a former Northwest broadcasting student, wrote a fantasy thriller novel titled, Howls of Chaos. (Submitted photo)
she found a publishing company in Texas by the name of Brown Book that gave her a shot. “I just want people to know they can accomplish anything. I hope this book inspires young people especially; I never thought I would have a book published,” Boyd said. Boyd was a full-time student, taking 14-15 hours, and those classes came with loads of homework. But, with all of that, she still managed to write a novel.
“My advice for young people or people in general trying to write a book is to make time for it. It has to be something you want to do and most importantly, believe in yourself,” Boyd said. Howls of Chaos, is available as an eBook at http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/ howls-of-chaos-gabrielleboyd/1120667646?e an=9781612541815.
Student Support Services provides resoures for students By Kreneice Reid
Student Support Services is a program designed to aid students in need by offering a number of beneficial tools. Currently, there are approximately 139 students enrolled in the Student Support Services program; the max is 160. Students who are interested should apply by filling out an application at the McLendon Center. The ultimate goal of Student Support Services is to increase Northwest’s graduation rate and assist students with a smooth transfer to a four-year institution. To enroll, a student must be a full-time academic student (minimum 12 hours) and meet at least one of the following qualifications. • Be a first-generation student (neither parents have a bachelor’s degree) • Be a Pell Grant recipient • Be a student with a disability (documentation is necessary) The Student Support Services program is federally funded by the U.S. Department of Education to provide the following. • Academic tutoring • Scholarships • Assistance in applying for admission to four-year colleges or universities • Transportation to tour four-year colleges and universities • Advice and assis-
tance in course selection • Information and counseling on financial aid programs and planning • Assistance in completing the FAFSA • Personal, academic and career counseling • Exposure to cultural trips and events • Peer mentoring • Workshops on study and test-taking skill With finals approaching, students should take advantage of the free tutoring services that are offered. According to Hayley P. Hayes, the Student Support Services office manager, the selected tutors can tutor six to seven subjects on average. “Don’t be shy or hesitant to ask questions because we have a friendly staff who are willing to help,” Rachel Fernandes, a sophomore studying accounting from Horn Lake, said. “Once they receive the help needed, it will contribute to their success in their class and then they will experience a rewarding feeling.” “I feel that the Student Support Services are very effective. I’ve seen several struggling students who come in and become comfortable with their tutors and then move forward and end up succeeding in their courses,”Hayes said. Fernandes was selected as a tutor.
Beginnning and college algebra, economics, Spanish, accounting, and biology are the subjects that she tutors. According to Fernandes, her tutoring format for algebra starts by first listening to their personal struggles and then providing her own math equations that focus on the student’s struggle. She also helps them with assignments if needed. “I love helping people and witnessing the look on their face once they comprehend what was once their weakness,” Fernandes said. According to Fernandes, students that she has helped attest to their improving after tutoring sessions with her. To select a tutor, The Student Support Services takes on an annual process by using the Alliant System Software. The Alliant System Software is a database of students, which contains high school transcripts, GPA, and ACT scores. Once an eligible student is selected, preferably a sophomore with a 3.5 GPA or higher in a variety of subjects, they are contacted over the summer and requested to be a tutor for the upcoming year.
4 • December 4, 2014
ARTS & LIFE
Lions club helps families during Christmas
Senatobia, Miss.
Players Club hosts movie night By Cameron Jones
Members of the Northwest and Senatobia Lions Clubs, Charlesa Peters, (l-r) Paige McClure, Samatha Pascul, Tom and Mary Jean Osborn and Les Dickens voted to adopt two families for Christmas. In addition to gifts that will be provided for the children, they have collected food that will be distributed as well. The club collected enough food for both families to have a Christmas meal. (Submitted photo)
How to prepare for a new semester By Samantha Whittle
After finals are over and the grades are in, students might think “Now what?” Whether headed to a university or staying at Northwest for another semester, it is best to be prepared. One way to be prepared is to know what to do next. If staying at Northwest, students should make sure they are pre-registered for their spring classes. Each semester,
whether staying at Northwest or transferring, students need financial aid for tuition, books and other school supplies. Therefore, make sure to know when the deadlines are to reapply for the FAFSA and other grants or aid. When transferring, students have to decide whether to live on or off campus and if their finances will allow either. They must decide if they want to continue with
the program of study they were in or switch to a different major in the university. Some students do not decide to continue their education after obtaining a degree from Northwest; however, they can still further themselves by joining the workforce of our society. If a student is stuck on where to work, the WIN Job Center on the Northwest campus can help.
A look at Ranger history: the 1970s By Samantha Whittle
1971 – WNJC-FM, Northwest’s radio station went on air in January every day except Sunday from 3 to 11 p.m. 1975 – On Nov. 2,
the Rangers won the homecoming game against the Holmes Bulldogs, 16-12. 1977 – The 50th anniversary year of Northwest
1978 – The Northwest baseball team clinched the District I Championship and beat the Northeast Tigers.
The Players Club switched gears from acting on stage to showing a classic movie, “Ferris Bueller’s Day Off,” on the big screen on Nov. 12 at 6 p.m. in the Fine Arts Auditorium. “Ferris Bueller is the classic back to school movie we all know and love,” Hannah Herring, president of the Player’s Club, said. Concessions were sold for a small cost before and during the
movie. The proceeds will go towards funding the theatre major’s trip to the Kennedy Center American College Theatre Festival (KCACTF) this coming February. “KCACTF is a convention in which theatre students from universities and colleges from around the country come together to showcase their work and compete with one another. There are also a variety of shows, activi-
ties, and workshops to attend,” Herring said. According to Sadie Shannon, sponsor of the Players Club, the Players Club hopes to have another movie night next semester. “The movie night turned out well and we are hoping to have an even better turn out next semester. The movie nights are a great way to spend time with friends and loved ones,” Herring said.
Northwest employee spotlight By Mekavia Lesure
Leonard Riley, the deli sub man in the Cafeteria, has been working at the Northwest cafeteria for 28 years. He graduated from Senatobia High School and then attended Northwest. After graduating from Northwest, he started working in the café at Mississippi Valley State. “My favorite thing at Northwest is encouraging the students to stay in class,” Riley said. He started off working as a work-study student, and then he got a job in the cafeteria. “After I retire, I plan on traveling to New York and the Bahamas,” Riley said.
Leonard Riley has been working in the Northwest cafeteria for 28 years. (Photo by Mekavia Lesure)
Leonard has three Bible scriptures that he reads every morning to start his day. “One Bible verse that I read the most out of the three is Isaiah 54:7 and it says, ‘No weapon formed against me shall prosper; and every
tongue shall rise against thee in judgment thou shalt condemn. This is the heritage of the servants of the Lord, and their righteousness is of me, saith the Lord,’” Riley said.
Where can an Ole Miss degree take you?
Across the globe. Haley, a former transfer student from Mississippi, is majoring in Mechanical
Engineering. Last summer, Haley traveled to Togo, Africa with the group Engineers Without Borders after becoming involved during her first year on campus.
“Ole Miss provides so many unique opportunities for involvement. My experience abroad changed my entire perspective.” —Haley, Mechanical Engineer
#OleMissMatters Connect with your Transfer Admissions Counselor on Instagram! OleMissJasonM OleMissLaura OleMissTyler
transfer.olemiss.edu
@OleMissRebels @UM_Admissions @TransferOleMiss
ARTS & LIFE
5 • December 4, 2014
Entertainers light up the stage By Samantha Whittle
On Nov. 13 at 7 p.m., the Northwest auditorium was packed with students, parents and other family members ready to see the Entertainers perform a variety of songs and dances under the blue, pink and lavender lights. The Rangerettes began the performance with an exciting dance number. The Entertainers performed “Save the World/Don’t You Worry Child” by Penatonix,
Getting to know your Northwest president By Kreneice Reid
The Entertainers perform “Gone, Gone, Gone” by Phillip Phillips at the “With a Little Help From My Friends” concert on Nov. 13. (Photo by Samantha Whittle)
The final performance of the night, “We Got the Beat/You Can’t Stop the Beat,” is performed by the Entertainers. (Photo by Samantha Whittle)
“The Giving Tree” by Plain White T’s, “Gone, Gone, Gone (Done Moved On)” by Allison Krauss and Robert Plant, “Wings” by Little Mix, “Why Don’t We Just Dance” by Josh Turner, “Come With Me Now” by KONGOS, “Conga
Senatobia, Miss.
Rythm” by Gloria Estafan and the Miami Sound Machine, “Stay With Me” by Sam Smith, “Don’t Know Why” by Norah Jones, “Going to the Dance with You” by Kristin Chenoweth, “Jersey Boys medley” by Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons, “With
a Little Help from My Friends” from The Sing Off, “Gone, Gone, Gone” by Phillip Phillips and “We Got the Beat/You Can’t Stop the Beat” from Glee. The concert brought laughs, smiles and applause from everyone in the audience.
Where are they now: alumni spotlight By Cameron Jones
Dannah Moyer Dannah Moyer is an alumna of Northwest who studied biology and was a Rangerette. She chose Northwest because of how helpful everyone was in making this decision as smooth as possible for her. She also wanted to be close to her brother and friends. After Northwest, she transferred to the University of Memphis where she studies biochemistry and works two Catina Mathena, a graduate of Northwest, is now an jobs. instructor in the nursing department. (Staff photo) “I would encourage students to keep press- me how to invest care importantly the Nursing ing on,” Moyer said “Col- and concern into other Department’s excellent lege can get overbearing people’s lives. Northreputation. at times, but it goes by west is the best,” Moyer “Try and stay foso fast, and in the end said. cused. Make good use it’ll all be worth it,” she of your time and resaid. Catina Mathena sources at Northwest. Studying at NorthCatina Mathena Time waits for no one,” west also helped Moyer currently teaches in the Mathena said. become more indeNursing Department and Mathena urges all pendent. As a member works as needed as a students to try their of both the Singers Critical Care Nurse at absolute best and give and Rangerettes, she Methodist Healthcare. their best effort. learned many lessons Mathena is considering about teamwork, pacompleteing her Doctience and responsibiltor of Nursing Practice ity. (DNP) in the near future. “I was also blessed Mathena chose with some amazing Northwest for its locateachers who showed tion and price, but most
Dr. Gary Lee Spears, president of Northwest, is a graduate of Hernando High School and a native of Eudora in DeSoto County. He received his associate degrees of applied science and education at Northwest. He went on to Delta State University earning a bachelor’s degree in social science and a master’s degree in counseling. He then earned his doctorate in educational leadership from Ole Miss. Prior to being selected as president, Dr. Spears served in many roles for Northwest, including instructor, vocational counselor, assistant to the DeSoto Center director and vice president for Student Affairs. He also served as registrar and director of Admissions and Records for 25 years. The Northwest Alumni Association named Dr. Spears the Alumnus of the Year in 2007. According to a statement found in the 201314 President’s Report, Dr.Spears said, “As I embark upon my tenth year as the president of Northwest Mississippi Community College—the school where I began my
own educational journey, I find myself reflecting on the accomplishments we’ve made as an institution over the last decade. Northwest has grown in many ways I never could have imagined when I took this position in 2005.” Under the presidency of Dr. Spears, Northwest’s building campaign has flourished with the completion of Tate Hall, and the renovation of the Mclendon Student Union, Division of Nursing Building and the Ranger Outdoor Complex. Dr. Spears took time to list a few of his favorite things. Color: Black Restaurant: Ajax Diner on Oxford’s Square Movie: “Schindler’s List” and “A Beautiful Mind” NFL/NBA team: Denver Broncos TV shows: PGA Golf and NFL football Music artist: Elvis Presley Candy: York Mints Northwest play production: “Sanders Family Christmas” According to Dr. Spears, as a Northwest student he played a lot of ping-pong for fun,
and he never imagined that he would become president. Dr. Spears also established lifelong relationships with the friends he made at Northwest and these turned into colleagues years later that he worked alongside. “The biggest difference about the main campus compared to when I first attended as a student is the physical size, the increasing enrollment which soared from 700 to now 8,000 students and the overall beauty of the campus,” Dr. Spears said. Dr. Spears is in the process of launching upcoming construction projects that include a health science building next to the existing Division of Nursing to form a “Health Science Complex” and an athletic field house for the football team in the south end zone area of the Ranger Stadium. Dr. Spear’s advises students who aspire to reach leadership roles to study hard, obtain all the education and training one possibly can and relentlessly pursue all dreams.
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SPORTS
6 • December 4, 2014
Five selected for MACJC football All-Star game Staff report
The 41st edition of the Mississippi Association of Community and Junior Colleges (MACJC) All-Star Football Classic returns to the Northeast Mississippi Community College campus on Thursday, Dec 4. The game is scheduled for a 1 p.m. kickoff at Tiger Stadium and can be watched live at NEMCCTV.com. Pregame starts at approximately 12:45 p.m. with “The Voice of the Tigers” Jeremy Kennedy on the call. Ranger sophomores Daivon Milan (OL), Karsten Miller (QB), Kentrell Spencer (WR), Marcel Newson (KR/DB) and Trent Scott (OL) will represent Northwest on the north squad. Northeast has welcomed the MACJC’s top pigskin stars for the past 28 years dating back to the mid-1980s. This is the second consecutive season during that span in which the contest has been moved from its usual Saturday afternoon slot. “We are extremely honored and proud to
once again serve as the host for this annual game,” Northeast athletic director David Robbins said. “It is something that we look forward because we feel it is a fantastic way to recognize a special group of student-athletes from all over the state.” Sophomores from each of the MACJC’s 14 football playing institutions are eligible to participate in this yearly tradition. Thirty-three men comprise both the North and South rosters with each college contributing a minimum of three athletes. The allstar coaches select the remainder of the roster, but no more than eight players from one school are allowed. Both units are slated to report to Booneville on Tuesday, Dec. 2 at noon. The gridiron standouts will have three practices before the contest, one session on Tuesday while teams double up on Wednesday. Southwest Community College’s Tucker
Peavey will direct the South squad while Jeff Koonz of Holmes Community College is in charge of the North. However, the remaining head coaches from every two-year establishment in the Magnolia State will serve as their assistants for the first time in the rich history of this game. The MACJC AllStar Classic has been a springboard to the next level since its inception. Numerous athletes from previous matchups have signed scholarships at four-year universities in NCAA Divisions I, II and NAIA. The practice sessions allow coaches from across the nation to visit one location and scout the best talent that each MACJC member has to offer. A full roster for the 2014 MACJC All-Star Football Classic has not been set and will be released at a later date. The South leads the all-time series 20-181 following a tight 6-3 decision last season.
Lady Rangers begin season 7-1
Staff report
Freshmen Aspriona Gilbert and Sara Lytle scored 17 and 16 points, but that wasn’t enough, as Lawson State dealt Northwest its first loss of the season, 69-62, during the final game of the TriState Classic. The game was played in front of 948 fans, with five local junior high schools, Independence, Senatobia, Magnolia Heights, Coldwater and Strayhorn making up the largest home crowd since Nov. 13, 1997. Northwest fell to 6-1 in defeat while Lawson State improved to 5-2 on the year. Despite jumping out to a 16-2 lead over the first six minutes of the game, the two teams went into half with the Lady Rangers leading by just one, 3332. Lytle collected 11 of her 16 points and nine of her game-high 15 rebounds in the first half. The lead changed three times in the second half, with Lawson State pushing ahead 40-38 at the 13:29mark. Northwest was able to tie the score once more, 50-50, at the 7:48 mark with a three-point play by Gilbert, but a layup by
Toborsha Holley gave Lawson the lead for good. Lawson held Northwest to a season-low 34 percent shooting and the Lady Rangers shot
ers this season. Destini McClary (16), Ashley McCrear (11 points, 11 rebounds), Tiera Williams (11) and Kyla Rooks (11) all scored in double
Freshman forward Sara Lytle dribbles the ball towards the paint. (Photo by Kenn Falkner)
Sophomore forward Jacqueline Broks gets back on defense. (Photo by Kenn Falkner)
just 50 percent from the free throw line. The Lady Cougars’ bench also outscored Northwest 34-16, something no other team has done against the Lady Rang-
figures for Lawson State, while Bethany Lytle was one of three Lady Rangers in double figures.
Senatobia, Miss.
Trying to avoid sports injuries By Corey McKinney
In athletics, injuries are very common in all sports. Some are very minor injuries, such as a strained muscle. Others are much larger, such as torn ligaments, concussions or broken bones. Some players do not take injuries as seriously as they once were. Players in all sports are pushing their bodies to the max and placing their health in danger. There are things athletes or anyone playing any type of sport, need to be aware of and take action to avoid injuries. There are multiple types of activities athletes can do to avoid injuries. For starters, the
better shape an athlete is in, the less likely the athlete will be injured. If an athlete is not in shape, it leaves the body vulnerable to any type of injury. If an athlete feels like he or she feels any type of pain, rest needs to be taken. If the athlete pushes his or her body while in pain, the pain will get worse and lead to a serious injury. If you do suffer an injury, take the proper steps to recover to full health. If a trainer or doctor says to do something, listen to him and do whatever he says. Do not try to return to play too soon, as it will put
your injury in risk of making it worse. “Every injury you have is a serious. It’s key to treat injuries because it factors with how your body handles it,” Jason Cooper, a trainer at Northwest, said about injuries. “First thing you should know is all injuries requires icing.” Jason Cooper and other trainers can be found at Northwest if you feel like you need to see them about an injury. They are usually found on the east side of the Coliseum.
Students participate in intramural games By Gabrielle Williams
The three-on-three basketball tournament is a time that students who do not participate in varsity sports can compete against one another. It is held in the McLendon Center gym, and teams of four players and a player-coach (the person that coaches and plays also) play against other student teams. The teams come up with their own team names. This year,
names included BBO, Fly-Guys, Rapid-Rangers, BYG and other unique names. The rosters are turned in to Coach Devin Mahoney. The teams are put into a computer system and randomized into a bracket where every game goes to 50. Jeremy Jackson, studying criminal justice and a participant in the tournament, feels that the tournament is
a good activity for students to participate. “It brings students out to watch their friends play and meet new people while doing so,” Jackson said. “I’d have to say that my favorite part would have to be just playing the game and competing with other students.” Student-players are responsible for calling their own games.
Ranger basketball starts off season 6-2 Staff report
Trailing by four at the break, Northwest outscored Co-Lin 54-34 in the second half to run away with an 86-70 win over the Wolfpack on the final day of the Southwest Mississippi Coca-Cola Classic. Northwest improved to 6-1 on the year and bounced back from its first loss of the season, 84-76, Monday against the host Bears. Co-Lin dropped to 2-3 on the young season. Co-Lin led by a game-high nine points, 32-23, with 4:24 left in the first half, but Northwest outscored the Wolfpack 9-4 to head into the half down just four. Both teams had stellar bench play, combining for 32 points in the opening 20 minutes. Northwest used the momentum of a small spurt right before the half and turned that into a 13-2 run to start the second half and build a 47-38 lead. The Rangers turned up their defensive pressure, forcing 17 turnovers and swatting seven shots in the second half alone en route to a season-high 12 in the game.
Co-Lin would never recover as the Rangers stretched their lead to a game-high 25 with 1:43 to play.
Sharwyn McGee with 16 points, nine rebounds and five blocks. Kieth Broome Jr. followed with 15, Courtney Shan-
Sebastian Petty, a sophomore guard, take the ball down the court against Mid-South Community College. (Photo by Kenn Falkner)
Northwest dominated the second half, outscoring the Pack by 20 while shooting a sizzling 67 percent from the floor
non added 14, Ashton Woodson had 12 and De’Sean Dockery had 10. Eleven different Rangers had at least
The school’s mascot was introduced at a home basketball game. (Photo by Kenn Falkner)
and holding Co-Lin to just 28 percent. Five Rangers finished in double figures, led by
one bucket. Terry Morris (14) and Donte Watson (11) led Co-Lin in scoring.
7 • December 4, 2014
Q& A with Sara Lytle
SPORTS
Q&A
with Sharwynn McGee
By Lauren Benton
By Lauren Benton
Sara Lytle is a freshman forward for the Lady Rangers from Memphis studying general education. Q: What has been your favorite part about being a Lady Ranger this season? A: Playing with my sister, Bethany Lytle. Q: Who are some WNBA or NBA players you look up to, and what do you take from their game? A: Jason Williams from the Memphis Grizzlies and his passing. Q: When did you start taking an interest in basketball? A: When I was 12. My dad always played basketball, and it’s all my family does. Q: What are some hobbies you enjoy besides basketball? A: I like to write books, sing, play piano, draw, paint and hang out with my younger siblings. Q: What are some memorable moments in your basketball career? A: When my sisters Bethany, Leah, my little sister, and I all started at the same time in high school. Q: What are your goals for this season?
Sharwynn McGee is a returning sophomore forward from Raleigh, North Carolina studying social work and was the third leading scorer last season. Q: As a freshman, you started in all 24 games last season and averaged 11.5 points, how do you plan to improve this season? A: Staying consistent, being more of a leader on and off the court and playing harder. Q: What is your favorite part about being a Ranger? A: The chemistry I have with my teammates. I like the atmosphere here. Q: Who are some WNBA or NBA players you look up to, and what do you take from their game and apply it to your own? A: I look up to LeBron James; he is a leader on and off the court and he plays hard, I try to add that to my game. Q: You scored a personal high of 27 points against Baton Rouge, how does that feel? A: It felt good. I felt like I couldn’t miss. It was a good game
Sara Lytle, a freshman studying general education from Memphis, is a forward on the Lady Ranger basketball team. (Photo by Lauren Benton)
A: To be a good team, not necessarily a winning team, but a fundamentally good team and helping my teammates and myself grow closer to Christ. Q: How does it feel to be undefeated so far this season? A: Winning to me doesn’t mean that much, just as long as our team is good, but it is a good feeling. Q: In the game against Mid-South you scored a personal high of 18 points, how did that feel? A: It felt really good. My parents were there to support me that game. It is really fun to represent
Christ in such a positive way. Q: How do you prepare yourself before a game, mentally and physically? A: I make sure I eat all the right food and drink plenty of water because I know I will be putting out a lot of energy. Mentally, I think to myself, if I play for Christ nothing can go wrong. I don’t think about points, I think about rebounds and playing defense as hard as I can.
Senatobia, Miss.
Sharwynn McGee, a sophomore studying social work from Memphis, was the third leading scorer on the team last season. (Photo by Lauren Benton)
overall as a team, and we played good defense. Q: How does it feel to have a team record of 6-1 this season? A: It feels good shows that we can be a great team this year and win a championship in our division. Hopefully we can win the tournament and go to the NJCAA National Tournament in Kansas. Q: What are your goals for this season? A: Win a championship and have a good record and have all of our guys go on to the next level of playing at a university. Personally, I want to improve my average above 11 points this year, average a
double-double a game and keep my grades up and play at a university. Q: What are some of your hobbies outside of basketball? A: Hanging out with my friends, family and girlfriend. Q: How do you prepare yourself for each game? A: Tune everything out, I listen to slow music and pray. Q: When did you start taking an interest in basketball? A: When I was about 5 years old. My dad would always watch it and it came naturally. I have liked it ever since. It just came naturally.
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8 • December 4, 2014
Senatobia, Miss.
Phi Theta Kappa students give back to community
Phi Theta Kappa members played Bingo with residents at Providence Assisted Living Center for their November service project. (Photo by Kreniece Reid)
Phi Theta Kappa members hear from Jason McCormick, Ole Miss admissions counselor, at their November meeting. (Staff photo)
By Kreneice Reid
On Nov. 4, Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society completed their first service project of the spring, which consisted of playing Bingo with the residents of Providence Assisted Living Center in Senatobia. Tiffanee Merrit, secretary of service officer for Phi Theta Kappa, is in charge of activities which emphasize the
value of lifelong community service. Merritt contacted Rebecca Willis, a volunteer coordinator for Asera Care Hospice, to coordinate the activity. “I think the residents thoroughly enjoyed it. They love interaction, especially Bingo,” Willis said. The Providence Assisted Living Center is
open to volunteers, but since it is a private facility, it prevents Phi Theta Kappa members from coming regularly. Volunteers are expected to be registered and accompanied by a volunteer coordinator. “We have to monitor the amount of people we have coming in. We don’t want to bombard them with too many stu-
dents,” Merritt said. Phi Theta Kappa plans to return to the Providence Assisted Living Center to sing Christmas carols for their upcoming service project. According to Merritt, Phi Theta Kappa hopes to also host active service projects at the public nursing homes because volunteer
restrictions are more lenient. This will allow them to do volunteer work on a regular basis and will be a convenience toward time management. “Whenever we can get a chance to volunteer with the residents, we love to. Unfortunately, it’s not in everyone’s schedule to attend,” Merritt said.
According to Merritt, the Phi Theta Kappa service projects are not limited to the local nursing resident homes in the Senatobia area. Ideas from all of the members are encouraged. Any member is welcomed to conduct a service project in their hometown if they are interested.
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