Read the feature story on p. 3.
See the prom photos on p. 6-7.
Jr./Sr. prophecies and wills are on p. 8.
Bear Facts
The
25¢
A PUBLICATION OF MENA HIGH SCHOOL
Volume 2 Number 6
April 2012
1200 Dallas Ave, Mena, Arkansas 71953
EAST innovates our generation by Kimmi Hanners
Environmental And Spatial Technology students changes the world one person at a time. Beginning with one man’s realization of a “disconnected” generation, the founder of EAST, Tim Stephenson, began a muchneeded technology component for the youth of today to inspire that exact reasoning. Following in his footsteps, Mena Middle School and Mena High School students attended the annual EAST Conference March 14-16. Seven high school and nine middle school students were selected by their classroom facilitators to attend the event. Mena High School students Kimmi Hanners, Trevor Kiser, Tyler Lane, Zeke McPherson, Megan Richardson, Ashley Robinson, and Chase Vandeest were just a few of over two thousand EAST students participating in the conference. Displaying
what EAST is all about, each group focused on teamwork, problem solving, community service, and many other characteristics of an EAST student. Students from around the country used the opportunity to showcase their projects that were and still are taking place around their communities and schools. MHS EAST featured some of the most popular projects including fire hydrant mapping and poster making. MMS EAST showed their progress and were awarded Superior by the judges. Focused on the theme of “Energy for 2012,” these sixteen captured the chance of a lifetime. EAST facilitator Larry Lindly said, “The students were very excited and are looking forward to having an even greater year for conference 2013.” These teens opened their eyes to the future of our generation – the innovation generation.
EAST CONFERENCE STUDENTS Zeke McPherson, Megan Richardson, Ashley Robinson, Kimmi Hanners, Chase VanDeest, Trevor Kiser, and Tyler Lane represent Mena High School at the EAST banquet. (photo by Larry Lindly)
Donkeys and their riders invade the basketball court by Emily O’Rear
FRESHMAN KRISTEN POUNDS coaxes her donkey into position during the donkey basketball game. (photo by Andy Philpot)
One of the great pastimes of America is the sport of basketball. Players dribble a ball up and down the court trying to score points and trying to keep the other team from scoring. Shooting from certain areas around the goal nets more points than others. Mena High School band students are taking the game of basketball and adding their own little twist: donkeys. The game is played like regular basketball but with a few more rules added. The most important rule is that to shoot or pass the ball, the player must have his or her donkey in tow. Riding the donkey is not required, but to move up or down the court, the donkey cannot be left behind. “Getting kicked by a donkey does not hurt as much as you think,” said senior Alyssa Odom,
who was kicked in the knee by her donkey. The two teams in competition were the Donkinators and the Rough Riders, or Students vs. Teachers. While some of the students played little crowd pleaser games between quarters, the main event was the basketball game which was a mixture of fun and a little pain as the donkeys being ridden did not allow themselves to be pulled around for too long. Some team members fell off when the donkeys they were riding stopped suddenly, or they hung on for dear life as their donkeys decided to run in the direction of their choice. In the end, the Rough Riders pulled through and won the game 29-6. “The greatest part was being announced with Alyssa, Senia, and Megann as the Benchwarmers,” said Heidi Faught.
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The Bear Facts - Editorials
April 2012
Today’s students prepare to lead tomorrow When we analyze our involvement in world matters or our country’s government, can we say that we involve ourselves in important events that are occurring? As easy as it is to communicate to people all around the world through sources such as computers or our phones, we hardly utilize these tools for our self-knowledge about problems or solutions that are happening in the world. As future leaders of this country, it is our responsibility to educate ourselves on how the government works. The sooner we understand the history of our surroundings and what the future may bring, the more prepared we will be to lead. Choosing a president is a crucial and important task which is often overlooked by young generations. Knowing the difference in the Democratic and Republican parties, who is running for office, and how the candidates are chosen are just the first steps in selecting our next leader. Not only is it important to know about our own country, but also knowledge of what is happening all over the world is a necessity. Many of us were recently introduced to the Kony 2012 movement. Through the many videos, tweets, blogs, posts, and news reports, we were informed and inspired to be involved in a matter that is happening thousands of miles away. For so many people from every generation to come together over one topic, is an amazing occurrence. Eddie Huckaby, a well-known face to Mena High School, served in the Peace Corps in 1964. The Peace Corps members introduced Americans to other countries to help spread knowledge about other cultures in the world. When asked about what this experience taught him he said, “The main thing I learned from my Peace Corps experience is that people are the same everywhere, no matter what their culture, no matter what their religion, no matter what their station in life.” Although he was thousands of miles away from the United States, Huckaby stayed informed of current events happening in America through news sources such as Newsweek, Time magazine, and news and review articles from the New York Times. As easy as it is to find information about virtually anything, we should all take more time to learn about our own government. We are the future of this country, of this world, so let’s educate ourselves and prepare to lead it.
2012: Are we at world’s end? by Ayla Powell
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF: Taylor Hale; FEATURE PAGE EDITOR: Kimmi Hanners; EDITORIAL COLUMNIST: Ayla Powell; SPORTS EDITOR: Hana Hunter; PHOTO/GRAPHICS EDITOR: Emily O’Rear; ADVERTISING MANAGER: Lake Ashley; LAYOUT MANAGER: Kim Erickson; CLUBS/ ENTERTAINMENT EDITOR: Taylor Betz; CIRCULATION MANAGER: Viet Nguyen; STAFF WRITERS: Cathy Haynes, Kaitlyn Schoeppey; PAGE
DESIGN by Digital Communications students: Monique Chelius, Carolyn Cobb, Brenden Daniels, Brittney Duvak, Bryan Ernst, Nathaniel Faught, April Ganster, Sydney Hebert, Nathan Hinson, Alyssa Looney, Ryan Lowery, Megan Moon, Gage Runion, Dakota Schaffer, BJ Schuller, Nathan Smallwood, Greg Spalding, Olivia Stafford, Kayla Stone, Jamie Thacker, Trent Vaught, Mariya Zagulova; 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, 1200 Dallas Ave, Mena, Arkansas 71953.
Are you surprised that it’s 2012 already? Remember in 2008 when we all started freaking out about the Mayan Calendar ending? Well I have some good news for those who are too paranoid to want to learn any new information! The Mayan calendar is a circle. That simply means that, though it seems to end on December 21, it just starts at the beginning again. Excited, are we? Relieved? I would hope so! I’m sick of hearing all these crazy end of the world theories, to be honest. But on the flip side, if the world does end, we won’t have to do any Christmas Shopping! …okay, that wasn’t that funny. But in the long run, does it really matter if the world ends? The world began without humans, so I wouldn’t be surprised if it ended without them too. But I digress. Haven’t we all become a little over zealous in our attempts to tell other people about the end of the world? And not just that, but other things too! Like what they should wear or who they should be hanging out with. If the world’s going to end and you really believe that, should you care about things like that? No. The answer is, simply and irrevocably, no. I understand. People get caught up in the hype, say things they don’t believe, or shouldn’t believe, and do ridiculous things. Remember Y2K? Me neither. It wasn’t important! It was just hype. The important thing to do right now is enjoy the time you have left and remember what’s important in life, whatever that might be to you.
April 2012
The Bear Facts - Feature
Page 3
Our generation in the making…
Blast from the past enlightens the youngest of minds by Kimmi Hanners
At the turn of the twentieth century, famous inventor of the lightbulb, Thomas Edison, said, “I have not failed. I’ve just found ten thousand ways that won’t work.” Inventors with bright minds have done exactly that through the centuries as technology has evolved like no one could have ever even dreamed! The Chinese are believed to have been the first inventors of the gun at around 500 A.D. Starting with gun powder and evolving into what were known as primitive cannons, handguns came into the making. Eventually, the automatic gun was produced, as were several firearms. Not only have firearms impacted society in war and strategy, but they have an effect on students in our very own high school. Not only do guns influence our daily lives, but so do the advances made through technology. As many have learned in history class, Eli Whitney invented the cotton gin, creating a revolution in the cotton industry and farming of today. In 1806, Benjamin Thompson Count Rumford invented a coffee pot with a metal sieve to strain away the grounds. From then on, nations saw the first steamboat, reaping machine, sewing machine, and crazily enough, the first set of dentures produced. From the printing press in the 1840s to the typewriter in the 1870s, ideas really began to spin in the minds of some of the greatest known inventors. Most, if not all, high school students have heard of Alexander Graham Bell who patented the first telephone, Thomas Edison, who perfected the first lightbulb, and Henry Ford, who introduced the very first Model T automobile. However, who’s heard of the cleaning robot “the mint,” the first ever flying car to be invented in U.S., or the creation of the smart home? For centuries, technology has evolved so strikingly quick that many teens and even adults can’t keep up! Since the introduction of the first of its kind television in 1927 and prototype for the first digital computer in 1939, bright minds have kept working and haven’t stopped yet. In fact, some of these advances have been only in the past thirty to forty years. Just think what life would be like if electricity was nonexistent, if airplanes never were invented, and if advances in all areas never were produced. Believing just this with a little more insight, senior Cathy Haynes said, “I don’t think we could survive without technology, because without it, we wouldn’t know how to survive. With all the medical advances and achievements that have been made possible through the evolution of technology, society has developed into something so much greater.” Looking at today’s discoveries, any student in any school across America could most likely tell you that he or she has a computer at home, television in his or her living room, or a microwave in his or her kitchen. Technology is nothing new to people across America. As Haynes said, “…we wouldn’t know how to survive.” Along these same lines, junior Kim Erickson said, “I think technology is the center of society, because almost everybody now has some form of it in their homes and all around them every day.” In fact, when printing this newspaper, a revolution of technology came into play. Mena High School teacher Molly Lindsey spoke of how the printing of the paper was done in the past and said, “When my husband was teaching, he went through a different process to print the paper compared to how the journalism students do it today. Students would have to type out their articles on something similar to a typewriter, wax their paper, and create a template. Most everything done then within the past thirty years was done by using your hands. You had to cut out the paper. You had to press on the wax. You had to literally create your article. However, today a machine at The Mena Star can do all that in just a short matter of time.” But what about today? What about cleaning robots like “the mint” who can clean floors with the push of a button? What about the first American car-plane created by Terrafugia Inc. that can travel 70 miles per hour on ground and 115 miles per hour in the air? In the next five to ten years, who knows what the next greatest technology advancement will be?!
Just in the last eleven years, the first iPod was invented, the first iPad was perfected, and the first smart phone was produced. Centuries have not been the only true time bombs of today. Decades have opened students’ eyes to what they are going to have to face. Sooner or later, the next Bill Gates or even Albert Einstein will have to step up to the plate, because before anyone knows it, learning how to write in kindergarten and how to perfect cursive in the third grade won’t be a key component for the future. Just this year, Mena High School students received their own individual laptops, creating some havoc and some appreciation at the same time. If this kind of evolution of technology not only keeps up, but, in fact, begins to impress upon students’ grades farther below, an impact will be made on society that no one would have ever thought possible. Soon enough, these next ten years will be just the beginning to another decade of techological advancements that could even enlighten the youngest of minds.
STUDENTS IN THE new computer class taught by Mr. Bates are learning how to operate computers. (Original cutline from The Bear Facts, 1981)
Happy Easter
Page 4
The Bear Facts - News
April 2012
MHS artists place at AYAA competition by Kim Erickson
MAKAYLA SMALLWOOD, CARRIE Squire, and Ashlyn Fox receive honors at the Arkansas Young Artist Association competition. (photo by Pat Flanigan)
Band rides home triumphant by Ayla Powell
In honor of new beginnings at our new school, for the first time ever, the high school band traveled to Cedarville to participate in the Region VIII Solo and Ensemble Contest on Saturday, March 3. After preparing with their respective groups for weeks, the students were finally able to put their skills on show in front of a judge, who would then critique them and give pointers. Even though many of the students were bleary-eyed and complained of the fact that this event was taking place on a Saturday, with a few unlucky students showing up a bit late, each group that went received a 1st division superior rating. They ended up
gaining a whopping 37 1st division medals, with some students receiving more than one due to participation in more than one ensemble. “It was a pretty good experience, and our hours of hard work finally paid off when everyone in our group got first divisions and when most of our kids got to go to state,” said junior and flute player Emily O’Rear. Though a few didn’t make the state list because their song selections weren’t preapproved, such as the trombone players who chose to play the very non-standard Beatles tune, ‘Yesterday,’ as opposed to a brass fanfare, this is definitely a warm memory that these musicians will carry for years to come.
Creativity is springing from young artists from all over the state of Arkansas. The Arkansas Young Artist Association competition and convention was held in Little Rock on March 13, 2012. Eleven Mena High students Ashlyn Fox, Jessica House, Carrie Squire, Makayla Smallwood, Addie Bush, Tasha Giles, Kendall Crutchfield, Kim Erickson, Ashten Bowser, Amber Lane, and Haley Strother took a three hour bus ride to the AYAA competition. Sculptures, paintings, portraits, pencil drawings, and much more was on display. The moment students arrived, they were told to place their artwork on display and then head into either the on-site competition or the auditorium. The students who went to the auditorium listened to the motivational speaker, David Warren, talk
about his artwork. Senior Tasha Giles said, “David Warren was very inspirational, and the artwork was amazing.” After lunch students were allowed to view the artwork. After inspecting the artwork, students were directed to the auditorium and waited anxiously to see if their artwork caught the eyes of the judges. Four awards were given out in each category: honorable mention, third place, second place, and first place. Squire won second place, Smallwood won third place, and Fox won honorable mention. Creativity was booming in the competition. Many students conversed with other students from other school districts and were able to receive good ideas for improving their artwork. The AYAA competition was a positive experience for all of the artists.
MENA HIGH’S BAND pleases the crowd during the annual Spring Concert April 5. (photo by Kim Erickson)
Sterling Machinery 104 Port Arthur Mena, Arkansas
Help save our environment FIVE STUDENTS WERE selected as delegates to the 75th Annual Arkansas Boys’ and Girls’ State. Alex Atchley, Chase VanDeest, Kayla Stone, April Ganster, and Hannah Bell (not pictured) will represent Mena High School. (photo by Emily O’Rear)
RECYCLE
Phone:479-394-4248
April 2012
The Bear Facts - News
Page 5
FBLA students spring to state conference by Kaitlyn Schoeppey
Almost 3,000 of the brightest and most successful students in the state got together this year for the Future Business Leaders of America Arkansas State Leadership Conference. The conference was held at the Peabody Hotel in Little Rock, April 2-3. A talented group of students represented Mena High School. Most of the students who attended the conference competed. Those students strived to win in the same events as they competed in at district, but in this competition, the rival contestants were already veterans of competition. The busy students also attended breakout sessions presented on a variety of useful topics for future business leaders ranging from paying for college to how to impress at a job interview. Students also elected the state FBLA officers for the 2012-
2013 school year and listened to the keynote speaker, Scott Huse. For most of the students at the conference, this event represents the pinnacle of their year in FBLA except for a select group of students who qualify to compete at the higher level of nationals. At the end of the nerve-wracking awards ceremony, two groups ranked impressively high in their events. Dakota Rapp and Brent Musser placed 4th in Banking and Financial Systems. Riley Philpot, Connor Purvis, and Cameron Ulmer also placed 4th for their event, Business Ethics. The entire conference wasn’t all work, however. Students enjoyed a visit to the mall in Little Rock and dined at various restaurants, including Iriana’s. Senior Senia Garcia commented, “I enjoyed meeting new people and going to workshops. We had a great keynote speaker.” Overall, it was an extremely impressive year for Mena FBLA.
MENA HIGH SCHOOL students listen to the T.V. and Broadcasting teacher during a session at RMCC’s Junior Day. (photo by Tammy Young)
Lunch and Dinner Specials
Authentic Mexican Foods
Open Sun - Thur 11 am - 9 pm Fri & Sat 11 am - 10 pm
1100 N. Highway 71 Mena, AR 71953 Phone: (479) 243-0822 Fax: (479) 243-0727
MENA FBLA STATE Leadership Conference attendees represent Mena High School April 2-3. (photo by Molly Lindsey)
Juniors explore the world of possibilities at RMCC by Emily O’Rear
Juniors received their reward for attending school both days for the 11th grade Literacy Exam when they traveled to the Rich Mountain Community College Junior Day on March 28.They were served a lunch of hot dogs at the RMCC Aviation Center and listened to welcome presentations while enjoying the food prepared. They toured the Aviation Center then traveled to the RMCC Mena campus. Upon their arrival, students were divided into groups and accompanied by tour guides as they walked the campus and learned about the many different programs and scholarships offered. Some of the programs explained were nursing, business, machine tools, aviation, computer database and security, as well as radio and broadcasting programs. The students enjoyed listening to professors and RMCC
students talk about the experiences they have had and how the skills are applied in real-world situations. In some of the sessions they saw how college students in that program learned. One example was in the nursing program in which a mannequin, operated by a computer with different real life situations, was used to deliver a real treatment situation. “Junior Day was a great way to get out of class, but I also was really excited to hear that I could take college classes for dual credit. What could be better!” exclaimed Kimmi Hanners. The students learned how taking college classes could help them in high school. They were introduced to counselors and faculty who could help them in choosing what classes to take, and also help them prepare for the tests needed to get into college. “It was a great experience. It helped me learn about college,” said Stephanie Vidrine.
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Page layout by Kayla Stone
The Bear Facts - Student Life
I would give a swift kick to my cousin, Jerry Allen. I leave my stupidity to Eddie Yahn. My compatibility with people to all underclassmen (get rid of cliques) A sense of maturity to all Cody Edwards Heather Eikenberg My kindness and a positive attitude to all underclassmen I leave my singing skills to Angie Brown. Devon Fielder I give Addam Birtcher my nose. Zack Fijman I would hope Stephanie Vidrine good luck this next year and Tasha Giles to never give up. I would give Kate Self my awesomeness and my Ashlyn Godfrey amazingness. I would give Andrew Moore a high five, and I am going to Devin Horner blow him a kiss. I would give Austin Warren a high five and my sports attributes. Tyler Horner I would give Kayla Stone a million dollars in Japanese Morgen LaCoste currency. My terrible parking spot to Kaitlyn Maechler Ashley Maechler My lack of enthusiasm to wake up for 5 hours of school – up Taylor Maechler for grabs My tall stature to Lindsey Thacker to help make her ever taller. Madi Ralls Megan Richardson I would give Chase VanDeest a bag of Fritos. I would give good looks to Melissa Gamble. Denisha Walker For all underclassmen girls to be nice Charlie Williams Sarah Allen Danny Arceneau Nick Crawford
Who needs to diversify? by Lake Ashley
Diversification is an important part of everyone’s lives, no matter how old or young. To diversify means to give something variety, a quality that is unique to that person. Every student at MHS has the right to diversify without judgment, whether he or she wants to do so with friends, style, personality, musical taste, or even religious preference. Though diversification is a great quality, many people believe those who diversify a little too much, in their eyes, are obscenely odd, so much to the point that they scare them. The problem with this is that a person really can’t diversify too much. There is no such thing as too different, or too normal for that matter. No two people in the world, let alone Mena, AR, can be exactly the same. Students should not judge each other based on these facts. If everyone had the same ideas and interests, there wouldn’t
be a point in writing, art, sports, or food. Whether a person believes it or not, being diverse in a system is really important. Senior Taylor Betz said, “Being diverse is derived from seeing without overwhelming influence from others and searching for happiness on your own terms.” If more students thought about this quote, there would be much less conflict. The idea that cliques must be formed might be abolished as well, as everyone could at least try and get along. Diversity isn’t something to fear; it is something to embrace. We must all look at each other with the knowledge that each of us has equal rights. No student at this school is any less human than anyone else. So, if someone really likes that band everyone else thinks is creepy, ignore them! Every student has the right to be different, whether by choice or birth. No one has to be judged because they’re different.
April 2012
2012
Seniors present wills to juniors
Seniors
Page 8
Juniors prophecy senior futures Jade Allen Brianna Anderson Cheyenne Anderson Lake Ashley Hannah Bell T.J. Bigham Bradley Busch Daryl Castillo Kim Erickson Jeremiah Foster Melissa Gamble Tate Oglesby Emily O’Rear Faith Payne Ayla Powell David Runyon B.J. Schuller Chase VanDeest
Jacey Lindsey will be a great military wife. Justin Kincaid will be a hippie in an RV, and he’ll have 20 cats. Big B will be president of the U.S., married out of college, and have 4 kids. Aussie Stroud will be a neurosurgeon and will adopt 2 Canadian children. Sean Hensley will be a pro soccer player. Hannah Knittig will be some kind of doctor with 2 kids. Lucas Head will join a country music band and have a sweet beard. After his trials in America, Viet Nguyen will be a ‘king’ in Vietnam and get lots of girls. I see Tiffany Sides succeeding at Harding University and becoming the person she hopes to be. Justin Wiseman will become a crazy trombone player who can’t contain his outbursts. Flannery Wilson will move to New York, design her own fashion line, and make bajillions! Big B is going to go to the NFL and win the Super Bowl nine times! Sasha Zavala will be a movie star/model and donate tons of money to orphans in Guatemala. Heather Madison is going to be the first woman president. Addie Bush is going to become a doctor and operate out of a telephone booth. Dare Garrison will be the next Man vs. Food. Dare Garrison will be in the woods. Jack Riley will be a future star on Jersey Shore.
MHS students place in Math Contest by Viet Nguyen
Fourteen students of MHS attended at the Regional Math Contest in Arkadelphia on Sat., March 5, 2012. All 14 students are members of the Math Club at Mena High and practice and study under the supervision of Pamela Loyd with the support from Melissa Puckett. With hard work and math skills, Brent Musser earned honorable mention in geometry and Cameron Ulmer won 3rd place in geometry. The testing was very
rigorous. Musser said, “I felt really good to accomplish such a great honor. I want to say thank you to my teacher and my family for the support and encouragement.” “Whether they are my students or Mrs. Puckett’s students, they’ve done a great job encouraging me as a teacher, and I’m proud of them,” stated Loyd. “I’m really proud that they took the challenge, and even more proud that my students won in the contest. They deserved it for what they’ve done,” said Puckett.
April 2012
The Bear Facts - Sports
Page 9
MHS places in 2012 State A r c h e r y To u r n a m e n t by Hana Hunter Many students from more than 70 local area schools, including Mena, showcased their skills March 24 in the Arkansas National Archery in the Schools Program (ANASP) state competition in Hot Springs. After practicing for weeks on end, Mena’s hard work paid off as students demonstrated their skills. Placing 3rd overall, Mena scored a total of 3,165 points. Senior Daniel Arceneau scored 286 individually placing him in a four-way tie for first. Arceneau officially placed second in the final shoot-off, winning both an individual trophy and a $2,000 check from the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission. Sophomore Braxton Lance finished 5th scoring 284 points.
According to the A G & F website, “Money for ANASP may come from many sources, including Act 799 of 2003, which sends fine money collected from violators of Arkansas Game and Fish Commission regulations to all 75 counties. The money is earmarked for conservation education in schools.” The ANASP tournament is a part of the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission’s education division. The archery program involves students beginning in the fourth grade and continuing through their high school senior year. Students learn archery skills, as well as an outdoor hobby they may enjoy for the rest of their lives. Many believe archery is a great way to sharpen skills, build self-esteem, and be more successful in the classroom.
SENIOR DANNY ARCENEAU receives a $2,000 check for placing 2nd in the state’s archery shoot out contest. (photo courtesy Arkansas Game and Fish Commission)
Ladycat softball team foresees big titles by Hana Hunter
MENA LADYCATS PLACE fire behind the ball both on the field and up to bat defeating DeQueen 6-3. (photo by Kim Erickson)
Carriage House Inn
First Baptist Church of Hatfield
701 12th Street Mena, Arkansas
Highway 71 South Hatfield, AR 71945
243-0957
870-389-6412
As softball season progresses, many players, coaches, and even peers believe the Ladycats are not only district, but state material. The Mena Ladycats’ record is currentlyimproving and hte team hopes to have more big wins in the near future. The Ladycats were defeated March 9 by Ft. Smith Southside 7-6. Mena’s overly confident attitude affected their playing and left them without a win. Foreman hosted Mena March 12 in an intense game involving not only a double overtime but also a hard-earned victory for the Ladycats, the final score being 11-10. Perseverance and determination showed near the end of the game as Mena proved themselves as the better team. Mena traveled to Nashville March 15 in hopes of a win, but fell short to the Scrappers 17-2. The Ladycats discussed in depth ways of improving and used Spring Break as time
to practice and ready themselves for the second half of the season. The Ladycats hosted DeQueen March 27 and defeated the Leopards 6-3 in both a competitive and fierce game. Many supportive fans cheered Mena on as they pulled another victory for the season. Sophomore Autumn Birtcher hit a two-run homerun immediately after Ariel Hartin’s double. “We swing our bats more than any other team in our conference right now, and we proved it tonight,” Coach Ray Hunter explained after the game. Mena fell short in their first conference game against Northside April 2 resulting in a score of 2-1. “We made just one more mistake than them and they had just one more hit than us, but overall we should’ve won that game,” Coach Hunter stated after the game. The Ladycats practice every chance they get, improving their weaknesses and working toward being number one in both their conference and state.
Monday-Friday (9am-9pm) Saturday (9am-3pm)
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The Bear Facts - Sports
April 2012
Special Olympics stand out above all by Kimmi Hanners
FRIENDS AND FAMILY gather around Taylor Maechler as she signs with the Cossatot Community College Rodeo Team. (photo by Taylor Hale)
Each year the Special Olympics take place in the Bearcat Stadium and features several track and field events which the public can enjoy. This year the Olympics were a huge success and featured everything from meter runs and walks to tennis and softball throws. Local businesses and special education groups, such as Mena Middle School, Mena High School, Polk County Development Center, and several others participated in the exciting and worthwhile event. Local businesses, such as Select Realty, were also able to help out by sponsoring the Special Olympics. Beginning with the National Anthem
and a cheerful welcome from Mayor George McKee, Special Olympics participants began the event April 13 with smiles on their faces and hope in their hearts. Mena Middle School and Mena High School students helped out by sending nice words and guiding the participants along the way. Sports students and volunteers from both schools ran score sheets and led the winners of each event to the table of gold, silver, and bronze medals. Each special education group dressed in matching shirts and wore huge smiles on their faces as the event began at 3 p.m. Friday. Lasting for three hours, the Olympics allowed people from around the community and school district to come together and participate in a beneficial event for all.
Baseball team remains positive about season by Hana Hunter
The Bearcats continue through the season with both positive attitudes and perseverance although their record isn’t perfect. The team readies for upcoming conference games, which will be the determining factors in their success. Hosting Lake Hamilton March 7, the Bearcats were defeated 15-0. Although a loss, the Bearcats continue to look at ways to improve. Mena fell short to Waldron March 13 in a competitive rally for the win; the Bearcats were short just two points with the final score of 11-9. The Bearcats traveled to Ozark March 22 in hopes of a win, but only to be defeated 15-6. Mena held their heads up and kept a positive attitude although a loss. Mena hosted Smithville March 26 in a victorious game ending with the final score of 7-6. The Bearcats were able to celebrate their victory in between games. Junior pitcher and first baseman William Copelin stated, “We got out there and did what we do. We go hard.” Playing a double-header to make up for a lost game due to weather, Valliant, OK
traveled to Mena March 26 and defeated the Bearcats 14-4. Subiaco defeated Mena 10-8 March 27 in a close game in which the Bearcats were persistent until the end, making it very competitive. Dardanelle traveled to Mena March 30 and was defeated by the Bearcats 9-4. Hosting the Lizards, Mena was optimistic about the game, and the Bearcats battled until the very last inning with positive attitudes. Mena walked away with another victory, and continue to look forward with their heads held high. Mena was defeated by Waldron April 3 falling just one point short; the final score was 3-2. The Bearcats traveled to Dover April 6, but only to be defeated 15-4. Hosting Booneville April 10, many fans came to support the Bearcats, but in the end, Mena was defeated 15-6 in a competitive game. The Bearcats continue to practice every chance they get and work towards improvement. Nearing the end of the season, the number of conference games increases. Mena prepares for the district tournament to be held April 27 and maintains both their upbeat attitudes and determination.
SENIOR BEN GRAVES warms up at shortstop before opposing Waldron March 7. (photo by Dana Harvey)
HATFIELD 4545 Hwy 71 South 870-389-5813
Member FDIC
MENA 303 Hwy 71 North 479-394-2211
www.unionbankofmena.com ATM LOCATIONS MENA WICKES
WICKES 118 Hwy 278 East 870-385-2211
Established 1934
April 2012
The Bear Facts - Entertainment
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Get ready for an excellent summer of movies! by Taylor Betz
With school ending and the summer beginning, it can only mean a great American tradition is here to make its yearly return: the blockbuster fare. This year it looks like it could be one of the better summers due to the opening act: Marvel’s The Avengers. The culmination of Marvel Studios’ in-house production sees a crossover in which Iron Man, Captain America, Thor and the Incredible Hulk team-up to stop Loki’s army from seizing Earth. While the star-studded ensemble and massive action set pieces coupled with a ridiculous budget and hype may be overwhelming, there is peace in its director: Joss Whedon (of Buffy the Vampire Slayer and Firefly fame). The Shakespeare of geekdom is easily considered the best choice to deliver an epic action film while managing to handle the heart of the story and its characters. On the other side of the Marvel superhero scale is The Amazing Spider-Man. The reboot of the still young franchise seems a bit much, but it worked for Batman, so it can likely work for the web-slinger. The new film stars Andrew Garfield (The Social Network) as Peter Parker, who is looking more like a handsome hipster than a nervous nerd with each bit of footage that is viewed. An attempt is being made to give the franchise a darker, more realistic tone. For example, SpiderMan in previous installments simply received a bite from a radioactive spider and started slinging web from his wrists because it’s science fiction. However, Garfield’s Parker seems intelligent enough to design a mechanism that shoots a web-like material from a shooter placed around his wrists. The idea originates from the comics actually, but this film also contains a guy turning into a giant lizard monster, so for some reason plausibility is only being considered in a few spots. The Avengers opens the big-budget floodgates on May 4 while The Amazing Spider-Man debuts July 3. While those bright-colored crusaders are all fun and good, the real superhero story that’ll command the screens is Christopher Nolan’s finale in his critical acclaimed trilogy, The Dark Knight Rises. Last time we saw the caped-crusader he’d taken the fall for some heinous crimes and was being hunted by the Gotham City Police Department. The film apparently takes a leap forward in time, seeing how 8 years of Batman’s absence has affected Gotham. Of course the idea of peace in the city begins to crumble when a new terrorist known as Bane (played by Inception’s Tom Hardy) rolls into town starting a revolt amongst the citizens in order to drag out the dark knight detective. While Marvel seems content to have super-hero teams battling it out over the skylines for sheer euphoric fun, the latest Bat-flick seeks to say something more. From plot details and recent trailers, the overall film evokes an idea of income equality which is being talked about a lot in recent events such as the Occupy Movement and of course the upcoming presidential election. As to whether or not the billionaire philanthropist by day/brooding vigilante by night endorses redistributed wealth remains to be seen, but considering the previous installments’ double-sided look on how to combat terrorism, at the very least the audience will be treated to a multi-faced look on the topic when the picture opens on July 20. Other potentially exciting movies on the horizon include Tim Burton’s retooling of a gothic soap-opera in Dark Shadows which stars Johnny Depp as a vampire who has just awoken from a 200-year slumber. As painful as an experience that could be, here it is used for laughs as the vampire in question was once a noble man from the 1700s only to be forced into the funk of the early 1970s. While early footage has left mixed reactions, primarily due to its overtly silly nature, one is reminded of the director’s second picture Beetlejuice. The silly view of the macabre may not be for all but Burton loyalists will be sure to find some nostalgia. Also highly anticipated is Ridley Scott’s Alien-tie in, Prometheus. With a cast lead by Michael Fassbender (X-Men: First Class, Shame) the science-fiction film tries to embark on resurrecting the mystery and horror found in Scott’s alien. Plot details have been scarce but with the connection to the Alien mythology, it certainly entices one to see what exactly will occur. Dark Shadows and Prometheus will be relased May 11 and June 8 respectively. With those essentials recommended, it is true to say that the summer has barely been covered here. Get ready to see everything from Sacha Baron Cohen evoking Saddam Hussein in The Dictator (May 11) to Honest Abe slaying vampires in the appropriatelytitled Abraham Lincoln: Vampire Slayer (June 22). With all this in mind, it would appear
the box office market is taking a turn to the weird. Whether super-hero ensembles, vampire, laughs, or the vague thrills of space be your cup of tea, you’ll be sure to find something to keep one on the edge of their seat.
Let the Games begin! by Lake Ashley
Teenagers are forced to commit murder in The Hunger Games. In the dystopian world of Panem, there are 12 districts and the Capitol. Before the rebellion, there was a 13th district, but in the end, the Capitol destroyed District 13. As a reminder to the 12 districts left that the Capitol was always in control, the Capitol made a decision. One boy and one girl between the ages of twelve and eighteen each year would be taken from each district as tributes and set against each other in a battle to the death. Twenty-three would die; one would live as the winner. This annual survival of the fittest would be called the Hunger Games. The story follows sixteen-year-old Katniss Everdeen, a girl from District 12. At the Reaping, the meeting in which the tributes are picked at random, Katniss’s sister, Prim, is picked as the female tribute for District 12. Katniss, panicked at the thought of her sister being killed in the Games, boldly steps forward and volunteers as the tribute for District 12 that year. Katniss goes to the Capitol with the male
tribute from District 12, Peeta Mellark, where they are shown to their country and prepared for the Games by being trained to hunt, snare, and kill both animals and the other tributes. Sooner than hoped, it is game day for Katniss and the rest of the tributes. The question for her isn’t “Who will win?” It’s “Who will lose?” This movie has been highly anticipated for about a year now. With millions of copies of the book sold worldwide, that fact isn’t really that surprising. However, did it meet its expectations? As a film, it was amazing. The storyline was interesting, it was well cast, the graphics weren’t terrible, and so all in all, it was a great film. On the other hand, most of the people who watched The Hunger Games have read the book or books. In comparison to the book, The Hunger Games was still pretty good. There were a few minor details that were a little off, but nothing major was completely incorrect. For young adults who enjoyed the books or who are just looking for a new suspense-themed film, go check out The Hunger Games.
JUNIORS KIMMI HANNERS, alternate, Hannah Bell, participant, and Emily O’Rear, participant, were selected for the REA Tour of Washington D.C. this summer. (photo by Tonya Thacker)
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The Bear Facts - Entertainment
April 2012
Gotham calling for the Dark Knight by Viet Nguyen
Building on 2009’s Batman: Arkham Asylum, 2011’s Batman: Arkham City gives players a new vision of Gotham, sets one free in the most dangerous neighborhood of North Gotham, which has become the superprison for the city’s worst criminal. As a city protector, Batman sets up the worst nightmare for all his enemies. With its humongous setting, combination of movement and combat, lots of secrets to discover, and side quests to complete, Arkham city is one of the most fantastic adventure games. The story of Batman: Arkham City starts out with Catwoman (has to be accessed with the redeem code which comes with the game) attempting to steal from Two Face and ends up getting caught. The billionaire Bruce Wayne ends up getting kidnapped by Hugo Strange’s TYGER guards. After escaping and retrieving his Batsuit, he realizes Catwoman is in danger, thus sending him on a long journey in Arkham City after he hears about the secret project called Protocol 10. Joker is dying, and after poisoning the Dark Knight, Joker forces him to help find a cure. That brings Batman into contact with Cobblepot, Mr. Freeze and other of Batman’s enemies, as the story has some major high points with many twists and turns. Coming back from Arkham Asylum is that game’s accessible and satisfying combat system. One button is used to perform Batman’s attacks, while another counters enemy attacks. With many kinds of movements and chaining attacks, the game quickly absorbs players. One advantage of the Dark Knight is his gadgets, which now play a bigger role in combat than before. A blast from the electric charge can shock an enemy and a quick placement and detonation of explosive gel can knock nearby enemies off their feet. Of course, thugs with shields, knives, and body armor are one thing, but enemies with guns are something else. When faced with armed thugs, Batman must rely on stealth. Sneaking up behind an enemy and taking him down silently, or by hanging from a gargoyle, he can kill an unsuspecting enemy below with an inverted takedown. The detective vision gives him an edge, letting one see the positions of enemies throughout the area, and when spotted, toss a smoke pellet to escape, or engaging the disruptor, which allows him to remotely disable a thug’s gun from a distance. Earning experience points after winning battles and advancing level lets players upgrade Batman’s suit, gadgets, and combat skills. These upgrades have a real impact on gameplay
The Martian Chronicles amazes readers by Kaitlyn Schoeppey
The Martian Chronicles by Ray Bradbury smashed every expectation. The book archives the fictional exploration of humans on Mars and the problems that it causes for everyone, Martian and human alike. It shows the troubles that going into the unknown causes for the people involved. The narrative is written in a series of short stories with different characters, so it really draws readers into the world. It causes a feeling of knowing the world that most science fiction stories can only hope to accomplish. While the story was written over fifty years ago, it is not a difficult read. It is kind of like To Kill a Mockingbird, easy to read,
but still creating a sense of pride by having read a classic. The stories are interesting and cause a sense of closure even though they’re so short. Every book has flaws, and The Martian Chronicles is no exception. The characters are not as developed as well as they would be in a longer work. Most of the characters are flat (one main personality trait) which can keep readers from getting as attached to them as the author (and readers) would probably prefer. Also some of the stories seem to last forever with long paragraphs describing things that most teenage readers won’t care about. That being said, the book is intriguing enough that it is easy to overlook the flaws. Overall score: 8 out of 10.
as players advance through the game. Purchasing Cryptographic Sequencer upgrades lets Batman hack enemies’ systems from distance and high level security, while the critical strikes upgrade rewards powerful attacks that let one build up to special combo moves more rapidly. During and after the main story, there are always side missions to challenge players. One of Batman’s worst enemies, the Riddler, has his trophies hidden all around the city. He also gives Batman numerous questions which request the Dark Knight to travel around the city and use his gadgets to find the answers. This time around, the Riddler has kidnapped hostages and placed them in riddle rooms throughout Arkham City, and the only way to get the locations of these rooms is by completing enough of the Riddler’s challenges. Not only Riddler, but other villains in Gotham keep Batman busy by giving him many things to investigate providing him many tasks such as following bullet trajectories and trails of blood to track down an assassin, racing across town to answer ringing phones by a madman before time runs out and he kills the hostage, and saving innocent political prisoners. Overall, Batman: Arkham City is so far the best superhero game of this generation which perfectly satisfies players with fantastic graphics, sound effects, and gameplay. Excellent story missions, a moving ending, and an open world to discover are just the perfect combination.
Music review
It’s going to be a GOOD year by Taylor Betz
After releasing his magnum opus, My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy, in 2010 and his collaboration with Jay-Z in 2011 (Watch the Throne), Kanye West has primarily kept quiet to avoid potential negative press since his controversial stunt at the MTV Movie Awards in 2009. Now Yeezy is planning to release a compilation album from the record label he owns, GOOD Music. The first single, “Mercy,” featuring Big Sean, Pusha T, and 2 Chainz was released in April on Good Friday, a Christian holiday. While Ye has mostly been very introspective and critical of his character in recent work, here he lets “the suicide doors up,” does “suicides on the private jet” which means he’s “fly to death.” The song’s cartoonish hook, bizarre sampling, and heavy bass
makes “Mercy” play like a club-ready song with enough unique nuances to keep it from being repetitive. Though the labelhead would normally take the spot light, it’s actually Pusha T, a relative unknown, who is the song’s champion. Elsewhere Big Sean continues his “so stupid it’s funny” lines (“White girls politicin’, that’s that Sarah Palin”) and 2 Chainz proves to be worthy of rapping alongside the GOOD artists. The record itself will feature other GOOD Music artists like Mos Def, Common, John Legend, Kid Cudi, Mr Hudson and Cyhi da Prynce. Since nonlabel mate 2 Chainz’s appearance on the single, we can expect more surprise guests. Expect the GOOD Music album to drop this summer.
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