The Bear Facts October 2015 edition

Volleyball team goes undefeated in district play, Page 10

HO ME CO MI

NG

20 15

Bear Facts

THE ROAR SPORTS

Bruins face key gridiron match

the

VOLUME 19, NO. 2

l

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 8, 2015

l

ST. JOSEPH CATHOLIC SCHOOL

Surging Bruin Spirit

Homecoming parade and court presentation tonight, pep rally, concert and game planned for Friday

By BENJAMIN PAYNE The Bear Facts

The St. Joe Bruins football team will try to snap a threegame losing streak in a critical Homecoming game against the Scott Central Rebels.

Sports writer Jon Dale Dieckman takes a look at the Bruin football team halfway through the 2015 campaign.

Sports, Page 10

CAMPUS

Contribute to The Shield

Production of the 20152016 yearbook The Shield is underway. If you have suggestions, please put them in the box on Ms. Linda King’s desk in the library.

‘Little Women’ coming soon

Set your calendar for Friday, Oct. 23 — opening night for the St. Joseph Catholic School fall production of “Little Women.” Curtain time is 7 p.m.

Friday and Saturday, Oct. 23 and 24, and 2 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 25, in the Fine Arts theater.

OPINION

Costco looks at Ridgeland site

The Bear Facts Opinion Page Editor Straton Garrard takes a look at controversy surrounding a possible Costco wholesale store in Ridgeland.

How will the Costco affect commerce, infrastructure and local housing? Garrard shares his thoughts.

Opinion, Page 2

Presidential

race preview Learn the basics behind presidential politics. The 2016 election cycle could be one of the most entertaining presidential races in our nation’s history. Editor Jack Hall will take you through the ins-andouts of the race for the ages.

Opinion, Page 2

Did you know?

Once a human reaches the age of 35, he or she will start losing approximately 7,000 brain cells a day. The cells will never be replaced.

INSIDE n OPINION, 2 n NEWS, 3-5, 7-8 n ENTERTAINMENT, 6 n SPORTS, 7-10

High hopes for Habitat

H

By JOHN LEE The Bear Facts

INSIDE omecoming n Editorial, 2015 shifts PAGE 2 into high n More photos, gear tonight PAGE 3 with a parade on n Game preview, campus and the formal PAGE 10 Homecoming court presentation in the Fine Arts theater.

Friday promises more: a pep rally, a football game and a concert. The pep rally likely will be one of the week’s most unusual events, a mock edition of ESPN’s “College Game Day.” “We got the idea for this from a video that Lewisburg High School did,” said senior JoJo Katool, editor for Bruin Sports Radio, referring to a public school in Olive Branch.

“We decided to do it ourselves. The timing was just right.”

Katool, who heads the six-man Bruin Sports Radio team that webcasts home-and-away football games, will oversee and produce the “Game Day at St. Joe” pep rally.

The Game Day pep rally will be modeled after ESPN’s popular Saturday morning college football show.

Senior Benjamin Payne will anchor St. Joe’s version, which will feature the Bruin Sports Radio team along with a planned “special guest picker” – WAPT-TV Sports Director Ray Coleman, a St. Joe alumnus.

The Game Day pep rally and other activities this week have been designed to celebrate everything about St. Joseph Catholic School.

Above: Linda Martinez and Emily Hinds sketch a bear on poster board to use as part of the 10th grade float in the 2015 Homecoming parade tonight. Photo by Grant Murphy/The Bear Facts Top photo: Katelyn Hanneke, left, Catherine Ursin and David Bradshaw cheer at a recent pep rally in the St. Joe gym. This year’s Homecoming pep rally will be at the football stadium and feature a high school version of ESPN’s popular show “College Game Day.” Photo by Catherine Cook/The Bear

“

See HOMECOMING, PAGE 3

JOJO KATOOL

BENJAMIN PAYNE

It (Game Day at St. Joe) is exciting, new and something we’ll definitely do in the future.

We think it’ll have a great reception.”

– Benjamin Payne, a senior

JACKSON – On a half-mile stretch in Jackson, 48 houses are abandoned – but thanks to hard work and community support, Greenview Street is making a comeback.

“Seeing the state of the neighborhood was an eye-opening experience,” said Leah Blevins, a St. Joe sophomore. “I could see a real improvement, even though it was just LEAH a few new houses.”

BLEVINS Thanks to a partnership with the Catholic Diocese and support from key community figures like Jackson Major Tony Yarber and Bishop Joseph Kopacz, Habitat for Humanity started a new effort under the Pope Francis House plan.

Habitat for Humanity is a nonprofit organization dedicated to bringing back simple, decent and affordable housing to impoverished areas. Community-level offices act alongside businesses that send donations to assist those in need.

The St. Joseph Choir was invited to perform at the official kick-off of the new project. Students, including Blevins, sang songs to mark the event.

“It was special for the St. Joe community to be part of something that will greatly impact the citizens of Jackson in such a major way,” said Mrs. Mary Banks, St. Joe’s campus minMARY ister.

BANKS The Habitat organization announced a plan to establish 20 houses in the community and to aid in creating a more friendly and inviting society to raise a family.

Construction began early September with the help of more than 300 volunteers. A major donation was made by the Catholic Church, which led to the site being dedicated as the Catholic House project.

Along with contributions from area businesses, an anonymous donor is funding the cost for about half of the construction.

“Let me begin by saying it’s about time,” Mayor Yarber said to kick-off the celebratory speeches – an event attended by state officials and the local president of Habitat for Humanity.

Many nearby residents who attended were not disappointed. They especially enjoyed the Bruin choir’s performance.

Toward the end, future residents who will live in the new housing talked about how great an honor it was to have such a loving and caring group come to help improve areas that are often forgotten – like Greenview Street.

With the help of many devoted volunteers and the Catholic Diocese, changes are on the way.

And it all began with a call from Pope Francis to help those less fortunate.

Alumna returns to alma mater as new teacher

By HOPE ENGLE The Bear Facts

St. Joe alumna Leslie Harkins is back at her alma mater teaching theater and coordinating the Spirit Steppers dance team.

When attending St. Joe, Harkins was involved in volleyball, dance, theater and the retreat team. She was also voted to the Homecoming court and chosen Most Likely to Succeed in her class.

A funny memory Ms. Harkins has about St. Joe is when she and a couple of her friends Saran -wrapped former Principal William Heller’s car.

“We signed our names on his

car so he knew it was us, and the next day we got called into his office,” she said.

“He told us we were going to be LESLIE expelled. MinHARKINS utes later he was laughing, saying ‘I am just kidding. Now get to class.’”

Ms. Harkins graduated from St. Joe and then earned her bachelor’s degree in music theater from University of the Arts in Pennsylvania.

After Mrs. Rachel Kenyon’s departure from the Fine Arts Department, Mr. Ronnie Russell,

the band director and chairman of the department, began looking for good candidates with Christian values.

RONNIE Mr. Russell RUSSELL didn’t just want someone who was talented; he wanted someone who was committed and called to the music ministry.

Last year, he approached Ms. Harkins and asked if she would direct St. Joe’s fall play and spring musical. She jumped at the opportunity.

“It was not a hard decision,” Mr. Russell said. “She impressed

me with her talent, leadership and personality. She is exactly what the school needed to start the theater program up again.”

So far, all of the productions have been smooth and efficient.

“Ms. Harkins is a great director, and we have a ton of fun,” said Emily Miller, a senior who worked with Ms. Harkins in last year’s productions.

“But at the same time, she gets things done and she does them well. I think that’s the reason a lot of people considered (the spring production) ‘Little Shop of Horrors’ one of St. Joe’s best musicals in a while.”

Beyond directing plays and musicals Ms. Harkins wants to

improve the Fine Arts Department by having a true four-year program. She said she wants to give students “more opportunities.”

She envisions a Thespian Society and Show Choir for the high school and middle school. Additional goals include re-starting the dance class and introducing a yoga class.

When not teaching or working with the dance team, Ms. Harkins can be found at her dance studio or watching the musical “Thoroughly Modern Millie.”

“Our Fine Arts program is second to none. Leslie has been a great addition to it,” Mr. Russell said.

Opinion

PAGE 2

Bye-bye flag: A racist stain

I

n the future, the greatest flaw on my social resume will likely be my native state – more well known for its bigoted past than for its magnificent culture.

In my brief period of life, I have been fortunate to experience little direct racism. I am awfully thankful for that.

Yet, within our state, we often work to eliminate racism while side-stepping some of racism’s greatest attributes.

In a 2015 Gallup poll, 54 percent of adult Americans viewed the Confederate flag as a symbol of Southern pride.

This concept was more popular among Southerners, 57 percent of whom viewed it as a symbol of Southern pride.

While it is plausible to view

“

While it is plausible to view the Confederate flag as a symbol of Southern pride, it is not plausible to view it as a symbol devoid of racist connotations.”

the Confederate flag as a symbol of Southern pride, it is not plausible to view it as a symbol devoid of racist NOAH connotations.

GREENE After all, it editor denotes an institution which represents an inherently racist nature.

On March 21, 1861, Alexander Stephens gave his “Corner Stone” speech in Savannah, Ga., which marked the inception of the Confederate States of America. In the speech, Stephens made his views and the views of the Confederacy clearly known.

“Our new government is founded upon exactly the opposite idea (of equality in the races); its foundations are laid, its corner-stone rests, upon the great truth that the Negro is not equal to the white man; that slavery subordination to the superior race is his natural and normal condition.”

There is no clearer text which easily affirms that the Confederate government was led by bigoted individuals.

The question then shifts to this: Does the value of the Confederate flag as a symbol of

Southern pride out-weigh the flag’s representation of a racist institution?

During the 1940s, Southern segregationists found opposition to President Harry Truman’s civil rights plans and adopted the flag as their official symbol of revolt against the Democratic Party. That is similar to how skinheads and neo-Nazis use the flag today.

If I have not been precise in my reasoning up until this point, let me be clear now. The right to affectionately view the Confederate symbol on the flag of our state is not in fact a right but an unnecessary privilege. My right and that of others to be free of racist symbols as promoted by government institutions is in fact quintessentially necessary for the pursuit of happiness.

When presented with this argument, many Americans rebut with: “Should we then take down everything that offends people?”

My answer: Yes, when the severity of the offence is making someone feel wholly unwelcome in their home.

In another context, imagine if we displayed flags of other racist organizations such as that of the Nazis or ISIS. These are terrorist organizations akin to the Confederacy which promote and

“

F

I

predicament because his political mentor back in Florida, Jeb Bush, is now running against him.

JACK Ohio Gov. HALL John Kasich editor is narrowly trailing the young firebrands. He makes a strong argument that governors – who have more experience making executive decisions – make the best presidents.

Kasich is second in early primary state New Hampshire, losing to Trump by a staggering 16 points but edging out Bush by a narrow single point.

A common strategy in presidential politics employed since the mid-20th Century is to aggressively campaign in early states of Iowa, New Hampshire and South Carolina – with

“

A common strategy in presidential politics employed since the mid-20th Century is to aggressively campaign in early states of Iowa, New Hampshire and South Carolina.”

“

Despite a large group of potential Republican presidents, Vice President there are a small number of actively seeking the Joe Biden is only a Democrats top office in the nation. few points behind There are six running, with the bottom three not even with Sanders and could a percentage point in the polls. pull a lot of the From the top, we see former Secretary of State and U.S. Sen. support from the Hillary Clinton. After dropping establishment on out of the race in 2008, she’s back for more. the left.”

She’s closely followed in the polls by self-proclaimed socialist Vermont Sen. Bernie candidates using momentum to propel themselves to secure the Sanders. Although Clinton has put on more than 10 times party nomination. the amount of fund raisers as Similar primary wins helped Sanders, Clinton reports having freshman Massachusetts Sen. raised $28 million in campaign John F. Kennedy beat Senate contributions to Sanders’ $26 Majority Leader Lyndon B. million.

Johnson in 1960. It’s been the Although he hasn’t formally norm ever since.

Carly Fiorina, the only woman announced, Vice President Joe Biden is only a few points among the GOP contenders, behind Sanders and could pull is not a politician. She is the a lot of the support from the former chief executive of establishment on the left. Should Hewlett-Packard. After an he put his name in the hat, it impressive performance in would put the current President the first GOP debate, her poll in a predicament whether or numbers and favorability not to support either Clinton or shot up. Yet her past as a disappointing CEO continues to Biden.

I’ve covered the top and plague her.

Louisiana Gov. Bobby Jindal, bottom candidates, given you some insight into presidential South Carolina Sen. Lindsey politics, and hopefully haven’t Graham, former Arkansas made you too cynical to cast a Gov. Mike Huckabee, former ballot (age permitting) in 2016.

Pennsylvania Sen. Rick Santorum, and former New Jack Hall, a senior, is editor York Gov. George Pataki are of The Bear Facts. all circling the drain with low numbers.

Considering the high cost of Costco

magine a city in which its citizens are without careers, without just wages and without the satisfaction of owning their own noble storefronts – as none remain within a growing desolation.

Unfortunately, I am not describing events that are likely to befall a post-apocalyptic Ridgeland.

No, what I herald to you today is what could accompany the development of Costco.

Yes, I’m talking about Costco, the infamous dealer of excess that plagues the very spirit of America.

Many small towns where Costco settles soon become mere shanty towns, where its inhabitants become like slaves – forced to fuel the corporate machine of greed and fear.

It casts out longtime local businesses through its siren songs of bulk purchasing, inexpensive wine and low-priced gasoline that leads each and every consumer to contribute to the potential financial ruin of their city.

That same ruin now threatens the people of Ridgeland as the city leaders have chosen the path of short-sighted monetary gain by allowing Costco’s shadow

to stretch into the once pristine figure of their city.

During 2014, Costco cast its lot upon the Jackson metropolitan area STRATON searching for a GARRARD suitable location. opinion editor The city had many prized lands that would undoubtedly have benefitted the company’s master plan.

But Costco’s insatiable hunger forced it to continue its search until it eyed a virgin plot of land at the intersection of Interstate 55 and Old Agency Road – conveniently opposite another tract of land that is home to the popular Renaissance – an upscale collection of shops that has found great success since it opened several years ago.

As Costco moved forward, its plans fell victim to Ridgeland zoning laws that prevented fast-food chains and gas stations from being built on land zoned in the C-2 category.

That was the end – or so we thought.

Costco began to tempt Ridgeland Mayor Gene McGee with thoughts of wealth and prosperity, ideas that had been

“

As Costco moved forward, its plans fell victim to Ridgeland zoning laws that prevented fast-food chains and gas stations from being built on land zoned in the C-2 category.’”

Our View

STREAM hits Bruins

Does the value of the Confederate flag as a symbol of Southern pride With the new year now in full swing and outweigh the flag’s the first quarter at a close, the implementation representation of a of St. Joseph Catholic School’s STREAM racist institution?” initiative is on its way. STREAM is an acronym for Science, Technology, Religion, promoted state terrorism against English, Art and Math. The theme of poverty minority groups. awareness is the main focus of the first The best goal for Americans in eradicating racism is achieved quarter of the new school year. by destroying all forms of Columns in The Bear Facts have often racism on the state level.

This debate is more than served as a way to help make people, about Southern pride. It is about including students, aware of issues plaguing whether or not we choose to average citizens. We plan to touch on the use symbols of a determinately hateful group of people. theme of poverty on these pages as well as Regardless, it’s for you to our news pages in future issues. decide.

We hope that after you read these pieces, Yet for your own sake, please do not make your decision based you will be better informed about the on an emotional onlook. Make impoverished conditions of others and your decision from a coherent, inspired to help those in need. logical stand point.

Only then will you be able The Catholic faith calls us to walk as Jesus to come to an informed social walked in kindness and aware of the needs of decision. all, especially the impoverished. STREAM is, Noah Greene, a senior, is therefore, a means by which to do this and an editor of The Bear Facts. aid in educating ourselves so that we may live out our Catholic faith. An uninformed person is more susceptible to cause harm than good.

An early look at presidential politics

ifteen Republicans are actively seeking the nation’s highest office: the presidency.

Of course, only one can snag the GOP nomination. And still, he or she will ultimately have to face a Democratic candidate in the general election.

Donald Trump, the eccentric billionaire business mogul, is leading nearly all GOP presidential polls. A recent Quinnipiac poll puts Trump 16 points ahead of second-place pediatric neurosurgeon Ben Carson. For both, this is their first foray into politics; they’re trampling veteran politicians.

Next up, we have Jeb Bush, the son and brother of the 41st and 43rd presidents respectively.

As an establishment favorite, his Right to Rise PAC has raised more than $100 million in its first six months.

Following the dynastic former Florida governor are U.S. Sens.

Ted Cruz and Marco Rubio.

Cruz is from Texas, while Rubio, the son of a Cuban immigrant, is from Florida. Cruz has made a name for himself in Washington after being the driving force in the 2013 government shutdown, staging a filibuster against the Affordable Care Act and aiding other conservative senators in their own filibusters.

Cruz reports to have raised $52 million. His average donation received is $81, which assures us he even accepts cash at the grass roots level.

Rubio is in an odd

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 8, 2015

the truth finally came out amid a loud brazen cry of outrage.

The complaints were far too late. The local developer had already sold the land to Costco.

Yes, this particular chapter in the story of Ridgeland doesn’t end fairly. Democracy and justice were cast aside in favor of crony-capitalism and greed.

But the fight has not yet ended, and victory can still be achieved. There is still at least one way to strike back: Don’t patronize the store once it opens.

By boycotting the business, the good people of Ridgeland and surrounding communities will send a clear message to elected officials: We are tired of you ignoring our views and conducting city business in secret.

spun to so many others in the past. They worked to create an exception in the zoning laws – one which now specifically allows big-box stores at the precise location Costco was considering.

Straton Garrard, a senior, is Fast forward to this summer.

Opinion Page editor for The Rumors surfaced that the mayor Bear Facts. was working with Costco. Many times this was denied; however,

Seniors, enjoy your last Homecoming as a student For seniors, this year is filled with many lasts. Seniors will experience their last dance as a high school student, their last football game as a student and their last Homecoming as a student.

Yet despite this, their last Homecoming as students is not their last Homecoming as members of the St. Joe community.

Year after year, St. Joe graduates flock to a place many call home – filled with loving affection and comfortable repose.

For all seniors, please plan to come back to join us next year for a celebration of family.

This year, like every year, we are constantly changing and finding new ways to enjoy each other’s company.

A celebration of an institution as fine as this is well deserved and warranted. In our academic and sports achievements we work hard. Now, let’s enjoy this time to play hard!

BEAR FACTS The

Noah Greene l Jack Hall Editors Benjamin Payne Managing Editor Straton Garrard Opinion Page Editor Grant Murphy Sports Editor

Terry R. Cassreino, Faculty Adviser Catherine Cook, Principal The Bear Facts, the official student newspaper of St. Joseph Catholic School, is published at least once each quarter of the school year. This newspaper is devoted to the interests of the student body, faculty, parents, alumni and community of St. Joseph. This paper’s purpose is to reflect the spirit of St. Joseph Catholic School, keep the school community informed and help promote the school’s Christian values.

All stories and photographs are copyright © 2015 by The Bear Facts and St. Joseph Catholic School. Reproduction and unauthorized use of any article, photograph or graphic in this newspaper is prohibited without explicit written consent in advance. Contact The Bear Facts, P.O. Box 2027, Madison, MS 39130-2927.

Unless otherwise noted, opinions expressed on this page belong solely to the author or authors and do not necessarily represent the beliefs and opinions of the staff of The Bear Facts; the staff, leadership and administration of St. Joseph Catholic School; or the staff, leadership and administration of the Catholic Diocese of Jackson.

If you disagree with any columnists’ opinions or want to share your own views, we invite you to submit a letter to the editor.

Letters should be no more than 300 words. The Bear Facts reserves the right to edit letters for clarity. Send your letter by email to thebearfacts@stjoebruins.com. Or mail them to: Letters to the Editor, The Bear Facts, P.O. Box 2027, Madison, MS 39130-2927

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 8, 2015

HOMECOMING, from page 1 Besides involving students and increasing school spirit, Homecoming also annually attracts Bruin alumni who return to campus to visit old friends and reminisce.

This year’s theme: Bruin Bayou.

St. Joe students had a full week of activities, starting Monday with “Who Dat Day,” in which students wore their favorite football colors and jerseys.

Tuesday was “Mardi Gras Day,” in which students wore purple, green and gold, and Wednesday was “Homecoming T-Shirt Day,” in which students wore their Homecoming T-shirts.

Today is “Swamp Day”; students wore their favorite camo clothing.

Friday will be “Blue and Gold Day,” with students wearing school colors.

Besides the pep rally and football game, Friday also will feature a free concert by Derek Norsworthy, a Mississippi Coast country music singer.

The concert will be in the St. Joe gym following the Homecoming game.

Norsworthy was featured on CMT and in American Songwriter Magazine; has generated an international management partnership; and has earned a USO ambassador representative position.

The week will end Saturday night with the Homecoming dance 8-11 p.m.

Saturday night in the St. Joe gym.

“Planning Homecoming Week has just been craziness,” said Mrs. Dena

Bruin News

PAGE 3

“

The cheerleaders, Spirit Steppers, band, football team and student council all work to make it (Homecoming Week) as fabulous as possible.”

– Dena Kinsey, high school director Kinsey, St. Joe’s high school director.

“It takes a whole team.”

“Everyone has to work together,” she said. “The cheerleaders, Spirit Steppers, band, football team, and the student council all work to make it as fabulous as possible.”

Mrs. Kinsey said she is looking forward to the Game Day at St. Joe pep rally – something different and unusual for this year’s Homecoming.

At the pep rally, students can make and display signs – just like spectators do during the actual College Game Day broadcasts. The best-made sign will win a prize.

“I absolutely love the idea,” she said.

“It will get a lot of attention, and great

Photo by Grant Murphy/The Bear Facts Sophomores work Sunday, Oct. 4, on their float for the 2015 Homecoming parade. Pictured from left are Olivia Patterson, Mary Scott Wolf, Alexandria Smith, Riley Cole and Blaine Turner. The parade is set for tonight on campus followed by the formal Homecoming court presentation in the Fine Arts theater.

reception.

Payne agreed. Payne provides color commentary and does sideline

reporting for the Bruin Sports Radio football webcasts.

“It is exciting, new, and something

we’ll definitely do in the future,” Payne said. “We think it’ll have great reception.”

Around the St. Joe campus Far left, top: Clockwise from left, Riley Wolf, Ellie Heilman, Kathleen Abadie, Genin Harkey, Mackinzie Riley and Emily Miller. Photo by Frances Huff/The Bear Facts Immediate left, top: Seniors enjoy lunch on the senior deck. Photo by Hope Engle/The Bear Facts Far left, second row: Sophomores Katie Joseph, left, Larisa Armour and Hannah Kimbrell work on the 10th grade Homecoming float on Sunday, Oct. 4. Photo by Grant Murphy/The Bear Facts Immediate left, second row: Sophomore Emily Hinds helps decorate the 10th grade Homecoming float. Photo by Grant Murphy/The Bear Facts Bottom: Seniors goof around in this photo. Pictured from left are Mackinzie Riley, Emily Miller, Marion Welsh, Genin Harkey, Julia Robinson, Katelyn Hanneke and Taylor Healy. Photo by Hope Engle/ The Bear Facts

Bruin News

PAGE 4

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 8, 2015

Retreat Team ready to tackle new year

By KAYCEE JACKSON The Bear Facts

With the beautiful fall colors brings to the wonderful retreats and the changes that come with them.

The year’s Retreat Team will be changing something up this year. This year’s retreats will start with this year’s seniors and not the seventh grade.

The first retreat for this school year took place Sept. 23 at Camp Bratton Green located in Canton and was led by Mrs. Mary Banks, the St. Joe campus minister.

“Usually, the senior retreat is in the spring, but this year it is in the fall to help the class bond and focus on their senior year,” Mrs. Banks said.

After the senior retreat, the seventh grade was next on deck. The sevenththrough 10th-grade retreats will be led by the Retreat Team; the junior retreat will be led by NET Ministries. The seventh- through 11th-grade retreats will be

“

Usually, the senior retreat is in the spring but this year it is in the fall to help the class bond and focus on their senior year.”

– Mary Banks

at St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church The Retreat Team also will lead the All Saints Retreat for the sixth graders at St. Anthony Catholic School and St. Richards Catholic School.

The retreats will consist of prayer, reflection, a small group discussion, and ending with liturgy.

“The Retreat Team strives for the school to become one big family,” said

sophomore Blaine Turner, a new addition to the school’s Retreat Team. Because the retreats are the length of a normal school day, the whole grade gets a chance to bond together and get closer to God. The St. Joe Retreat Team consists of the students in Grades 10 through 12 who seek to help younger students’ relationships with Christ.

Besides the overall goal of getting closer to God, the Retreat Team interacts with younger students. It is an opportunity to welcome new students and the new seventh-grade class.

The team does not only affect each grade, but the student body as a whole.

Overall, the retreats should help our relationship with everyone grow stronger.

With God-centered actions, we should all develop as human beings with kindness towards one another.

Photo by Mary Banks/Special to The Bear Facts This will surely help us better our The Class of 2016 enjoys their senior retreat at Camp Bratton Green in Canton communion with God and each other.

Quiz Bowl prepares academic scholars

By ISABEL HEBERT The Bear Facts

Buzzer-beating brilliant brainiacs better basic competitors as they build brave bonds by working hard.

Three times a week, the St. Joseph’s Quiz Bowl Team meets to practice for the most strenuous competitions on campus versus other Mississippi high schools.

Mr. Matthew Hosler, their fearless leader who also teaches Latin and Algebra, is the coach of the Quiz Bowl team.

“The students gain knowledge, confidence and honor participating in Quiz Bowl,” he said.

This is undeniably true and can be easily proved by spending mere minutes with the team.

The tournaments are attended by schools from throughout Mississippi.

At each tournament, every team plays a series of games in which they compete for points while a moderator asks questions.

The teams must react faster than a speeding bullet to hit the buzzer if they think they know the answer. If they answer correctly, they get to answer bonus questions that are about the same topic.

Each tournament features an assortment of radically random questions from interesting spheres of the world.

In the past, the St. Joseph Quiz Bowl team has answered questions about

“

The students gain knowledge, confidence and honor participating in quiz bowl.”

–Matt Hosler, Quiz Bowl coach

Marvel superhero comics, subatomic particles, medieval Japan and music by Igor Stravinsky.

Mr. Hosler, also known as “The One,” splits up the students into teams and starts asking questions to prepare them.

He tries to balance the teams so that they are composed of different students with different fields of knowledge – and can answer greater amount of topics.

Cole Green recommends Quiz Bowl to all Bruins who think they can handle the mental challenge that the team entails.

“Quiz Bowl is a fun, academically driven competition (where you) learn new things and spend some time with cool people and a prime coach,” he said.

Mr. Hosler did not join Quiz Bowl when he was in high school.

He said he was “not cool enough to be on the Quiz Bowl team.” Luckily, SJ students don’t encounter this issue.

St. Joseph Catholic School ranked by Niche.com as the

No. 1 Best Private High School in Mississippi

Bruin News

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 8, 2015

PAGE 5

St. Joe students meet with college reps

By CATHERINE COOK The Bear Facts At this year’s College Fair, the St. Joe seniors had a game plan.

Because it was their third fair, they knew who they wanted to visit and what to expect.

As expected, the fair raised an already brewing excitement for college – especially for the senior class. However, juniors also began mapping their game plan for college.

In contrast, the sophomores were relaxed and overwhelmed.

As Riley Cole said, “It’s pretty cool and a little scary.”

For sophomores, the fair gave them a push to strive for higher grades and participate in new extracurricular activities in order to get scholarships and recognition.

Several parents attended the fair to keep their kids on track and make sure to get all the information to help with the final decision of where to go to college.

Universities from all over the country came to the fair. Mississippi State University had the largest display with several of their colleges’ departments ready for questions.

“Mississippi State loves coming to college fairs in Jackson.

We love to travel as a pack and see the students’ excitement,” said Allison North, one of Mississippi State’s representatives.

The huge success of this year couldn’t have been possible without the freshman student council and many parent volunteers.

Freshman Clare Harkins said: “College Fair is a great opportunity for students, and it’s very well run.” The freshmen helping cover the fair were lucky enough to also be able to talk to the representatives at the fair.

Many people say the fair is a great way to show students the numerous schools around the state as well as schools in other states.

“

Mississippi State loves coming to college fairs in Jackson. We love to travel ... and see students excitement.”

– Allison North, Mississippi State

Others, however, say it’s how the teachers show the students why they need to try harder.

College Fair is also a great way for growing universities and colleges to get their name out and show what they offer.

Many students can discover Photo by Catherine Cook/The Bear Facts new opportunities from schools they otherwise would know little Students in the 10th- through 12th-graders enjoy the college fair on the st. Joe campus last month. The fair is about. as great way for students to learn about what area colleges and universities offer.

New students start the school year running hard

By LUCKETT NIXON The Bear Facts As the blazing summer temperature continues to scorch Madison County with hopes of a cooler fall around the corner, another school year is underway at St. Joseph Catholic School.

Football season has begun and students are reuniting with longtime friends and adjusting to new classes and new teachers.

There are also new students on campus who are now part of the St. Jo-

seph Catholic School family. Eli Carter is a freshman who transferred from Madison Middle School this year and is already active as an athlete for our school. Carter chose to come to St. Joseph Catholic School after his parents and he saw the positive opportunities that St. Joseph Catholic School offers.

Carter is happy with his decision to become a Bruin. The athletic program and the school as a whole will benefit from Carter as a member Saint Joseph’s High School student body.

Galen Goodloe is a new freshman stu-

dent who recently transferred from Old Towne Middle School.

Goodloe has known and been friends with many other St. Joe students for many years. Those friendships helped Goodloe choose to attend St. Joseph Catholic School this year.

Goodloe is enjoying the new school year and attending with friends of many years. She will be a great asset to our student body at St. Joseph Catholic School.

Elton Vandevender is a new seventh grader who attended St. Anthony Catholic School last year.

Vandevender lives near St. Joseph Catholic School and knew a great deal about the school as his older siblings attended St. Joe already.

Vandevender already had a lot of friends attending St. Joe and has enjoyed the school year as one of the junior high Bruins.

The 2015-16 school is starting off well with great potential with the addition of the new students that are now part of the Bruin family.

When students move to a new school, they sometimes face problems, until

they get accustomed to their new environment.

They may feel sad leaving their friends from their old school and even lost because everything is so different to them.

Experts say students should take special interest in making new students feel at ease. With the help of the faculty, staff and students, they can make new friends, get familiar with the school customs, the teaching patterns, and even the rotating schedule.

Bruin teachers outline goals for the academic new year

By PETRA RIVERA The Bear Facts A new style equals a new insight into teaching at St. Joe. “Challenging, interesting, difficult and, yes, even cool ― these are just a few common words that students use to describe my courses,” said Chance Theriot, coordinator of STREAM and chairman of the science and math departments.

Theriot left St. Joe at the end of the 2013-2014 school year.

He returned this fall to regain the sense of community that cares more about others than about themselves.

He plans to help the faculty

in his department in any way he can. Moreover, he said he hopes to guide the efforts of the school in the most beneficial way for the students.

Theriot teaches chemistry, honors chemistry, AP Chemistry, AP Physics II, and AP Calculus.

“

I recognize that each student is an individual.”

– Billy Swindle, English and literature teacher

“No matter what students wish to pursue at the collegiate level, I hope they learned ‘how to think’ not ‘what to think,’” Theriot said.

“In my opinion, that’s the most important thing that any teacher can accomplish.”

Another teacher who brings excitement, motivation, energy and diversity to St. Joe is Meghann King. King teaches Spanish II, Spanish III, French I and French II. This is her first year teaching, but she hopes to provide the students with a fun classroom to learn in and grow.

“My plans for the year are to immerse the students into a foreign language, provide them with experience in speaking, reading

and translating in the language,” she said. “I also think it is very important that my students learn about the traditional cultures in the countries that speak the language. Overall, my goal is to give the students a culturally enriching course where they can explore a new world of language.”

She believes that foreign languages can be difficult. However, by practice and having experience, these obstacles can be surpassed.

“I also think it is important that they realize that we live in a great big world and knowing languages can allow us to communicate with so many more people,” she said.

Billy Swindle plans to continue

the excellent tradition that St. Joe has by creating an interest in the students to excel in their studies.

Mr. Swindle teaches eighth grade English and freshman literature.

He plans to help students understand the subject better so that each student will understand the objectives of a particular lesson.

“I enjoyed my days as a substitute teacher last year, and getting the opportunity to teach parttime was a challenge for which I gladly accepted,” he said.

Swindle has worked 40 years in administration. He served as a teacher, principal, and coach at various schools before retiring in 2008.

“I recognize that each student is an individual with varying

needs, interests, learning capacities, talents, and aspirations,” Swindle said. “I always strive to serve as a positive guide and advisor in the educational process.”

New teachers have plenty to offer and they love what the St. Joe community is.

“I am so blessed to have the opportunity to teach in a place where students are eager to learn and where I can express and live out my religious beliefs. It is such a beautiful thing to be surrounded by other Catholics,” King said.

“God sometimes has plans that we do not realize he has. I believe that he has led me here and I am truly blessed by this.”

The Bear Facts wishes everyone as safe and enjoyable

HOMECOMING 2015

Primary Care Plus Ridgeland 323 Hwy 51 Ridgeland, MS 39157 Phone Number: (601) 898-9150 Fax Number: (601) 898-9155 Monday thru Friday 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Medical Director William Loper, M.D., ABFP Angie M. Jones, M.D.

Entertainment

PAGE 6

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 8, 2015

Harper Lee’s new novel worth a read

I

read “To Kill a Mockingbird” back in my 8th grade literature class.

It’s a well written novel with great humor, but also some serious tones dealing with JOHN LEE entertainment editor mistreatment of African Americans in the early 1930s.

Now we have a sequel, “Go Set a Watchman.” The new novel takes place about 20 years after “To Kill a Mockingbird.” Jean Louise, also known as Scout, is 26 and lives in New York City. She returns to Maycomb to visit Atticus, who is in his 70s.

In this story, things are tense in the South because the book is set at the start of the Civil Rights movement.

When Jean Louise returns home, she

discovers some dark secrets about her town and even her family. I’m not going to spoil anything. So if you’d like to find that out, pick up a copy at your nearest bookstore.

What’s different about this book is that it’s a completely different style than “To Kill a Mockingbird.” One reason is that it’s told in third-person.

“To Kill a Mockingbird” was told through the eyes of Scout. In this book, she is still the protagonist but not the story’s narrator.

Several characters make a return appearance in “Go Set a Watchman.”

Among them is Scout’s father, Atticus.

He was an important figure in “To Kill a Mockingbird” because he was one of those great father characters.

Calpurnia, the Finch maid, also makes an appearance.

Some characters we haven’t met or rarely saw in the first book also show up. One is Henry Clinton, or Hank.

“

copy of the book if you would like to find out about Jem. Things are tense To wrap up, I’d like to give some thoughts on the book. First, it’s a quick in the South because read. Once you get into the story it the book is set at the won’t take you any time at all to read start of the civil rights through it.

Second, if you liked “To Kill a movement.”

Mockingbird” and its characters, then definitely read this because a lot of the characters return.

Even though the book was a change of style from “To Kill a Mockingbird,” Hank is introduced in the beginning of it was still a great addition to the story, the book. He’s Jean Louise’s life-long and it really is a good read. friend and an almost husband. He has “Go Set a Watchman” is available to proposed to Jean Louise a couple times, buy and I definitely recommend it. The but there are certain reasons why she books contains some great twists in a refuses. story you won’t want to miss.

Now you might be asking: What Harper Lee, the author of both “To about Jem? He was an important Kill a Mockingbird” and “Go Set a character in “To Kill a Mockingbird” as Watchman,” continues to go above and well. Here’s the thing: if I told you, that beyond what’s expected. would be a major spoiler. So pick up a

Fusion Cuisine appeals to hungry masses

By STRATON GARRARD The Bear Facts Hello hungry connoisseur of grand eateries. Are you in the mood for searing platters of spicy noodles? Or would you prefer expertly crafted hibachi cooked with the best ingredients around?

Then look no further than Fusion Japanese & Thai Cuisine, a restaurant experience that’s guaranteed to make your mouth water.

A hidden gem located off U.S. 51 in Madison, Fusion offers delicious and authentic Thai and Japanese fare at agreeable prices.

Each person present is attended to by an excellent wait staff that whips out drinks, appetizers, the main course and deserts in absolutely no time at all.

Many patrons say they are in-and-out of the restaurant in around 45 minutes – an impressive feat considering the hardy portions delivered.

I recently visited this establishment on a warm Sunday evening with my

REVIEW family. Weary from a hard day of work, I was astonished by our jovial reception.

The waiter led me and my family to an open table and kindly inquired if we would like anything to drink.

We each placed our orders, and in a flash he arrived – drinks markedly cool and crisp. After we each gingerly sipped our beverages, we began to peruse our list of items to enjoy.

“

The menu was extensive, covering everything from raw sushi to mouth scorching Thai curries and noodles.”

After the waiter left, we could not contain our admiration a minute longer – marveling at the interior design, the agreeable staff and the robust atmosphere. It was likened to heaven served with an extra dash of curry powder.

After a sufficient time passed, our The menu was extensive, covering waiter returned carrying platters, each everything from raw sushi to mouth spiced according to individual wants and needs. Then came the first bite. scorching Thai curries and noodles.

And nothing else mattered.

My family chose different courses; my brother a scallop hibachi, my sister a steak hibachi, and me the Pad Thai. My dish had stir fried traditional Thai rice noodles with bean sprouts, eggs, scallion and crushed peanuts with various choices of meats included.

My mother, unsure of which course to try, politely asked the waiter for a recommendation.

The waiter smiled and pointed to a brace of Thai entrees, consisting of either basil, cashews or broccoli stir fry with a choice of meat and vegetables, After careful deliberation, my mother chose the entrée featuring cashews.

The Pad Thai was heavenly.

We thanked the waiter for our meal and, as I glanced at my watch, I noticed that our stay at this grand eatery had lasted a scant 45 minutes. Its legendary swift service had prevailed.

I close with this: If you haven’t yet visited Fusion Japanese & Thai Cuisine, then you are clearly missing out on something extraordinary.

FOLLOW BRUIN FOOTBALL ON

BRUIN SPORTS RADIO Listen on TuneIn Radio Channel 13 Go to www.stjoebruins.com

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 8, 2015

Bruin Photos

PAGE 7

‘All my life I want to be a Bruin’ Top left: Middle school football players look on as their teammates play.

Photo by Layla Lewis/The Bear Facts Top right: Senior Eric Diamond, No. 40, and junior Nick Thompson, No. 78, ready for the snap during the st. Joe-Natchez Cathedral game on Friday, Aug. 28. Photo by Catherine Cook/The Bear Facts Middle left: Senior Charles King high-fives a member of the crowd after the win against St. Andrew’s.

Photo by Hope Engle/The Bear Facts Immediate left: Senior Jon Dale Dieckman, No. 32, blocks a St. Joe Greenville team member during the Bruins game against the Fighting Irish on Friday, Sept. 18. Photo by Olivia Patterson/The Bear Facts Below: Coach David Wissel wants YOU to be a Bruin fan. Photo by Leila de Gruy/The Bear Facts Bottom: The crowd goes crazy at an early season pep rally. Photo Special to The Bear Facts

Bruin News

PAGE 8

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 8, 2015

Payne, Greene lead 2015 Youth Legislature

By CHRISTO HICKS The Bear Facts Passionate debate, in-depth questioning, an insider view into the world of politics and more are provided at Youth Legislature.

This year, the annual three-day conference will have a decidedly St. Joseph Catholic School feel: Seniors Benjamin Payne will be governor and Noah Greene will be lieutenant governor.

“I’m exited,” Greene said.

Formally called Mississippi Youth & Government Youth Legislature, Youth Leg is a three day mock legislative session staged in downtown Jackson at the Marriott and the Old Capitol.

Hundreds of students from schools across the state attend the annual event in which high schoolers draft, propose, debate and vote on bills – just like the real Mississippi Legislature.

For many St. Joe students, Youth Legislature is an early exposure to politics. And with Payne and Greene leading the way, this year’s event will be a little different.

“What is going to be really different is the process,” Greene said, referring to his responsibil-

“

There are always entertaining bills that go really far.”

– Benjamin Payne, governor of Youth ity as second-in-command and president of the Senate.

Once Youth Legislature delegates create, debate and vote on bills in committees, their proposals head to the House and the Senate for debate and then to the governor for his signature.

“Basically, yes, I decide what bills pass and fail,” Payne said.

Payne and Greene clinched their elected positions at the 2014 Youth Legislature.

As governor, Payne will be able to call special sessions to privately question delegates about their bill or give them ad-

vice on how to aid or fix technical problems.

“There are always entertaining bills that go really far,” Payne said. “So it will be fun to grill kids with tough questions.

“Last year, we had conferences where the cabinet would call delegates into the governor’s office and show them how to fix their bills, but we still choose the bills we consider priority.”

A highlight of the program is the legislative session. Rooms at the Marriott and the Old Capitol are filled with screaming delegates and trying to share their ideas can be startling at first.

But getting involved in the action is highly recommended if delegates wish to indulge in the true Youth Legislature experience.

The likeness between the authentic world of politics and its microcosm Youth Legislature is a question that many wonder.

With Greene and Payne in the top two leadership roles, this year’s edition of Youth Legislature will be decidedly different Photo by Marion Welsh/Special to The Bear Facts for St. Joe delegates.

St. Joe students may find in- Benjamin Payne, left, governor of Youth Legislature, and Noah Greene, lieutenant governor, confer over fluencing their bill this year a bit proposed legislation during Junior Youth Assembly in the spring of 2015. This year marks he first time that St. Joe students will hold the top two elected leadership posts at the annual four-day conference. easier.

Garrard living dream as Bruins quarterback

By JON DALE DIECKMAN The Bear Facts Imagine stepping onto a football field of an opposing team with a chance to prove yourself as a high school quarterback.

Most children dream about such an opportunity. St. Joe junior Jack Garrard is living it.

During the summer of 2014, just before his sophomore year, Garrard was the prime candidate to start quarterback for St. JACK Joe. Playing GARRARD quarterback was his dream since elementary school.

“When I was in the second grade, I loved watching Brett Favre play,” Garrard said. “I liked his playing style and the heart he played with.”

Garrard was named starter

“

When I was in the second grade, I loved watching Brett Favre play.”

Jack Garrard, Bruins quarterback

for the opening game in which the Bruins defeated the Lake High School Hornets on Aug. 22, 2014. The game against a powerhouse team demonstrated Garrard’s ability to play under new head coach Miller Todd.

“I thought he was the man for the job,” said Mason Fridge, a senior tailback for the Bruins.

“I knew he didn’t have a lot of experience, but it worked out for the best.”

Garrard wasn’t the only new

starter on the field, but he was by far the youngest. Garrard showed a lot of maturity and leadership; through the first six games that year, he threw for 148 yards.

Garrard also had huge shoes to fill, replacing former quarterback Chris Hanneke – a two-year starter under head coach Flip Godfrey. Hanneke was part of a three-year run that saw the Bruins go 32-7. As a starter, Hanneke went 20-5.

“I was having to continue the success from the past,” Garrard said. “And I felt ready for it.”

This season, the Bruins look to better from their season and prove many people wrong. The Bruins have made huge strides and improvements When asked how he feels about his second year starting as quarterback, Garrard said he is ready for the challenge.

“I feel that the game has slowed down and our team has had huge improvements,” he said. “It’s going to be a fun year.”

Freshmen players leave mark on Bruin football squad

By TRIPP GOURAS The Bear Facts During the first minutes of the early-season football game, against Natchez Cathedral, Will Walenta, a crucial starter for the Bruins, suffered a bone contusion.

The next man in line was Noah Berry – one of many freshmen with no game experience but the heart to hold NOAH the line with BERRY other St. Joe varsity football players.

“When coach called me out, I was nervous. But I knew I had to step up and do my job to help the team,” Berry said.

Despite the 35-0 loss to the Cathedral Green Wave, Berry walked away with a new understanding and appreciation of the

game. The freshman class is the future of the program.

“If these freshman don’t see faces like Eric Diamond, Josh Clayton, Jon Dale, and Mason Fridge when they come off the field, they won’t ever learn what it takes to win a football MILLER game,” said TODD Coach Miller Todd, head coach and athletic director.

When asked about the freshman class as a whole, Miller pointed out that Berry and Chandler Thornhill started in the Cathedral game.

“When we have situations like that, those freshman don’t always have a lot of depth or experience,” Todd said. “But I don’t care if they are ninth graders. If you can play, I want you to play.

“I have high expectations for

this freshman class,” Todd said.

“They put in a lot of hard work on the scout team at practice.

“All around we have a good group. If we could maybe add a lineman, I would even more excited for this group of freshman.”

Thornhill said moving from middle school to varsity football “helps teach you how to adapt to change.”

“Middle school is more of a teaching point, and varsity is the CHANDLER time when THORNHILL you have to step up and know what you are doing because you never know when you’ll get your chance.

“I expect us all to mature and carry the knowledge we get this year throughout our high school careers and beyond.”

FOOTBALL, from page 10 Contrary to the 48-28 score in the first game against Salem, the Bruin offense played well despite a couple of turnovers. Many tackles outside the tackle box were missed, allowing Salem to score easily.

Against Cathedral, the Bruins did their best to tackle better; however, they were just simply out manned throughout the game leading to a scoreless effort.

“Our offensive line is very young and they get better every week,” quarterback Jack Garrard said. The Bruins returned five starters on the offensive side.

“The passing game needs to improve in order to add another threat to the game plan,” Garrard said.

The Bruin football team has been known in the past few years as a run-first pass-second team, so implementing a strong passing game would surely help.

The defense performed well against the St. Al Flashes – holding the team Photo by Olivia Patterson/The Bear Facts to 17 points, the fewest allowed on the year. Although this was a big accomThe Bruins struggled on the road against St. Joe-Greenville, losing the match.

SWIM, from page 10

working at all times and everyone is looking to beat the next person on every lap. This team environment is the key to success, according to Coach Collins.

The practices allow every member of the team to develop. Coach Collins expects breakout seasons from prospects such as Miles Beebe, Reid Smith, Abby Starns and Emma Adkins to help out established frontrunners from last year like Nick Burrow, Will Butts and Avery and Anna Chris Nichols.

The Bruins had a impressive showing at the meet they hosted at the Lakeland Courthouse on Sept. 26. The girls had three second-place finishes in relays and used their top eight swimmers to finish second, while the boys finished fourth overall.

The team also had several personal best times from younger swimmers.

“Oh, the girls are set to win state,” Collins said confidently.

She said that the biggest competition

“

Oh, the girls are set to win State.”

Lauri Collins, coach of the Bruin swim team

has been St. Andrew’s in recent years.

However, St. Andrew’s has lost several speedsters on the girl’s team, while returning three of the fastest boys in the state.

Even though it is often overlooked, the swim team maintains a reputation of excellence through hard work.

The team opened practice Aug. 3, a week before classes started. While most teenagers won’t wake for at least another hour, these students start their day in

the pool.

Those hard hours led up to their first meet on Aug. 24 at the Jackson Yacht Club. Just as Coach Collins predicted, the Bruin swim team won numerous individual events with old and young swimmers.

The team will compete in the MHSAA Class I/II North State Meet on Oct. 17 at the Delta State Aquatic Center in Cleveland, Miss.

The team seeks to keep their competitive edge while having a fun environment during their 2015 season.

In the middle of the practice, the whole squad spreads throughout the deep end for a two-minute session of treading water.

After a minute, Coach Collins shouts,“Leila, why are you on the swim team?”

Leila de Gruy thinks briefly, then says, “I like the team itself (and I) like the people on the team.”

plishment, the defense has much work to do in order to improve the attack.

“I think we should work from the outside in, allowing our interior defensive plays to make many of the tackles and taking away from the many responsibilities the secondary holds,” said middle linebacker Josh Clayton.

The stout defense the Bruins have shown helped them to achieve a twogame win streak going into a game against St. Joe Greenville. But head Coach Miller Todd said the two-game winning streak was a mere coincidence.

The Bruins defeated St. Aloysius and St. Andrew’s in a row – arguably the two biggest rivals on St. Joe’s schedule.

The varsity football team won those games by playing more players than the opponent. The Bruins have stuck to a run-first, pass-second offense, which allowed them to tire their opponents.

Although the Bruins played well during the two wins, the team still has a lot to work on.

“We need to work on throwing the football more efficiently,” Coach Todd said.

The passing game takes pressure off of senior tailback Mason Fridge, who averages around 20 carries a game.

Coach Todd emphasized a “pitch-andcatch” mantra to Garrard in order to get him from trying to do too much throwing the football.

During the fifth week of the season, the Bruins squared off against the Irish of St. Joe Greenville. The Bruins struggled against Greenville’s spread attack.

The football team played well for the first two quarters, but were simply worn down in the second half. The Irish had a team that was bigger, faster and stronger than the Bruins.

Even though the season started slow, that doesn’t mean the Bruin football team has given up. Players hope to add a much-needed spark to their performance Friday in the critical matchup against Scott Central.

GAME DAY COMES TO ST. JOE

Join the Bruin Sports Radio broadcast team as they host the St. Joe Homecoming 2015 edition of

GAME DAY AT ST. JOE 1:30 p.m. Friday, Oct. 9, 2015, Bill Raphael Field

Bruin News

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 8, 2015

PAGE 9

Clayton: Canadian football fills the need

I

t was June 26 and my football intake was getting dangerously low.

I was itching for some good, live football, and the reruns of the 2014 JOSHUA season games were CLAYTON not cutting it.

I flipped through my sports channels and found something that stopped me in my tracks on ESPN 2: the Hamilton Tiger-Cats against the Calgary Stampeders.

This was a huge game for Week 1 of the 2015 Canadian Football League season. The game was a rematch of the 2014 Grey Cup, CFL’s championship game and Canada’s Super Bowl.

Two questions came to mind while watching my first CFL game: Why do these two teams have the best mascots

The endzones in the CFL are 20 yards long rather than the NFL’s 10.

To fill up these colossal playing fields, the CFL allows 12 players from one team on the field at any one time instead of 11. That takes the meaning of “12th man” to a new level. A Because of the 12th man, an offense can put an extra receiving threat or blocker on the field. A defense, on the other hand, can put a ball hawk over the top to run around and de-cleat someone.

In American football, teams have four downs to move 10 yards; in Canadian football, teams have three downs.

Canadian football allows offensive ever, and why had I never heard of the players to move behind the line of CFL? What makes the CFL so appealing to scrimmage before the snap; the NFL only allows one. me are the small wrinkles that make a There is no such thing as a fair catch big difference in the way you watch it.

A CFL regulation field 65 yards wide, in the CFL. All these rules and regulation while American football only requires a patch of green around 53 yards wide. differences can be fun. But the truly

“

is still relatively unknown. Calvillo was the highest paid player in the CFL The games in 2014 as he made $400,000. Brian Hoyer made around $750,000 last year. usually make for The gap between CFL money and NFL money is large, so some CFL a good treat on a players pick up a second job as the summer evening.” average player only makes around $80,000 a year.

For example, Calgary Stampeders running back Jon Cornish works as a banker during the offseason. interesting part is the comparison of the The Canadian Football League players. features nine teams separated by two Many CFL players are young, divisions. Each team plays 18 games no-name guys trying to get enough over a 20-week season that is followed attention to earn an NFL tryout. You by two rounds of playoffs. also can occasionally find a player who The two teams that survive meet to used to have a steady NFL roster spot, fight for the Grey Cup championship like Brandon Banks. trophy the Sunday after Thanksgiving.

Former Montreal Alouettes The games usually make for a good quarterback Anthony Calvillo has treat on a summer evening and are a more passing yards than any other good alternative while waiting for the professional football player ever and fall football season.

Bruin runners to build on success from 2014

By MARY SCOTT WOLF The Bear Facts Running across the fields, through ditches and up winding bumpy hills, the Bruin Cross Country team works hard to get into shape and stay in shape.

Coming off a successful season in 2014 with top finishes at the State Meet, the cross country program is seeking to build up more steam.

The Bruins’ top finisher for the boys team last year was senior Brantley Bariola, who finished 12th in a crowded distance field.

Likewise, the top finisher for the BRANTLEY BARIOLA Bruin girls was Riley Wolf, who is starting her eight grade year and who finished fourth.

In the most recent cross country meet

“

If we can place in the Top 10 in our meets, I would consider that a successful meet.”

– David Wissel, track and field coach

at the Mississippi College Choctaw Trails, the girls finished 13 out of 43 schools and the boys finished 25 out of 43 schools.

Last year, the girls team finished first at the district meet and second at the State Meet in the Division 2A. “For this year’s girls team, I would like to win district again and finish first or second again at State. However, we

are really young with three of our top runners at this point middle schoolers,” said Cross Country Coach David Wissel.

Even with the youth, Bruin runners are excited for another chance at State.

“I am looking forward to a great season and hope for us to do well at the district and state meets,” Wolf said.

Last year, the boys team finished sixth at the State Meet in the division.

“For the boys, I expect to win district and finish in the top five for state. With four seniors and some talented underclassmen, we should do well,” Coach Wissel said.

“Since all of our meets except district are against bigger and more experienced teams, if we RILEY WOLF can place in the Top File photo 10 in our meets I would consider that a The Bruin cross country team has gotten off to a strong start for the 2015 season. successful meet,” Coach Wissel said.

Seniors vital to volleyball team

“

By CHAUNCEY TAYLOR The Bear Facts

The success of the Lady Bruins volleyball team has depended on the team’s seniors: Katelyn Hanneke, Genin Harkey and Arianna Marshall.

Marshall, who had a monstrous 10 kills against Germantown High School earlier this year, said she never downsizes her opponents.

“I have a mind-set to go hard at all times,” Marshall said.

This being her senior year, Marshall has gained multiple responsibilities and developed a much deeper role in the system of the team.

“As a senior, you have the opportunity to be captain,” she said. “That means you have to be a leader ... on and off the

“

I think my three seniors have really stepped into their leadership roles.”

– Toni Harris. volleyball coach

GENIN HARKEY

ARIANNA MARSHALL

court.

“You have to make sure all the girls are learning the game and learning it right,” she said. “My role on the team is to be one of the three captains. I am one of the main leaders on the team, and I make sure that we are always playing hard so that we are never just on the court to be on the court.”

Marshall said she believes the team can continue the rest of the season without losing another game. “I feel this way because of the level of intensity we bring during games and during practice,” she said. “We definitely work hard enough to accomplish that goal.”

Another major asset to the team is this summer’s All-star Game MVP Genin Harkey, who has come through in clutch moments for the Bruins numerous times throughout the season.

I like to focus on one game at a time.

So, I just want to keep winning game by game.”

– Genin Harkey, a volleyball player “I like to focus on one game at a time.

So, I just want to keep winning game by game,” Harkey said.

Toni Harris, the volleyball team’s head coach, said the reason for the squad’s success is obvious.

“As a team, we started to work and build a focus for the program early in the summer instead of waiting until midAugust, when the season starts. So far, we’ve really had time to come together as a team and focus on our mission to be successful.

“I think my three seniors have really stepped into their leadership roles and guided the team to this point,” she said.

“And I believe they will continue to lead us all the way to the championship.”

VOLLEYBALL, from page 10 advance far into the playoffs.

“It is likely that we will participate in the final state playoff match if we are able to continue building skill and stay healthy throughout the season.”

Last year, the Lady Bruins posted a 24-13 regular season record – including 12-0 in district play. The Lady Bruins advanced to the state playoffs, losing in the first round.

During the summer, the team participated in long hours of rigorous training and practice in order to ready themselves for the upcoming season.

Sometimes the practices would run close to four hours long consisting of drills and various types of conditioning and yoga.

“Summer practices were really tough, but in the end I think they were worth it. The three and a half hours seemed like an eternity but I think it made us a better team” said senior captain Katelyn Hanneke.

The players are not the only ones seeing improvement in the team. Coach Harris said she is very impressed with the amount of dedication she saw this summer.

“I believe their hard work will allow us to start the season full speed ahead,” she said. “The three senior captains

this year are Genin Harkey, Arianna Marshall, and Katelyn Hanneke. These seniors have been part of the volleyball program since seventh grade.

“Each senior this year will be charged with the task of leading the team by demonstrating excellence as in tactical skill as well as assertiveness in attitude.”

The seniors this year will need to lead by example in order to take their team all the way and bring home the state championship.

The Bruins started the year off strong with a record of three wins and one loss with two of those wins being over Germantown and Ridgeland.

The girls are expected to keep a strong, winning record this year. In order to do this, they must continue to practice and continue to improve in order to get through some of the tough games in their schedule.

The Bruins are going to continue to strive to do their best throughout the season. They will continue their long hours of practice in order to reach their full potential.

The Lady Bruins have had a history of winning record in the past, and are expected to do the same this season.

MURPHY COLUMN, from page 10

Photo by Dave Vowell/Special to The Bear Facts

Katelyn Hanneke celebrates on the soccer field during the 2015 Lady Bruins soccer season.

Hanneke in the classroom.

She started the new academic year with a renewed desire to improve academically and earn scholarship money for college.

Hanneke plans to attend the University of Mississippi next fall. She is most looking forward to the Saturday football game day atmosphere in the Grove and

cheering for the Rebels as an Ole Miss student.

Until then, Hanneke remains fully focused on athletics and academics. Before you know it, her senior year will be over.

So, Hanneke hopes to make the best of it – just like she did that fateful day in Clinton last February.

“Last year’s championship win was great,” Hanneke said.

“But this is a new year and nothing is given to us.

“We will need to work equally as hard this year to achieve our goal,” she said. “And we plan to do nothing less than that.

Bruin Sports

THE BUZZ Bruin cross country

St. Joe runners build on past success

Bruin cross country competition is underway for the fall 2015 season.

Coach David Wissel and team of student athletes already are participating in high-profile, important cross country meets The goal: Build on the success the program experienced in the 2014 season last fall.

As Coach Wissel said, Bruin cross country will be a success “if we can place in the Top 10 in our meets.”

PAGE 10

l

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 8, 2015

ST. JOSEPH CATHOLIC SCHOOL

l

Bruins face critical game Friday

By JON DALE DIECKMAN The Bear Facts

SPORTS ANALYSIS

The St. Joe Bruins hope INSIDE to snap a three-game losn Garrard ing streak, improve their living dream as record to 3-5 and keep playquarterback off hopes alive Friday when they meet Scott Central. n Freshmen The Homecoming 2015 leave mark on football game is expected to Bruin football draw a large crowd to Bill squad Raphael Field on the St. Joe campus – including stuPAGE 8 dents, faculty, parents and alumni eager to see a Bruin win and participate in Homecoming activities.

“I think it would be a great win,” said senior defensive tackle Straton Garrard. “ I think it would improve our chances of getting into the playoffs.”

The team’s record stands at 2-5 after losing to Puckett 34-0 – the second time this season the Bruins were shut out and unable to score.

Besides Puckett, other season losses included Salem Attendance Center, Natchez Cathedral, St. Joe Greenville and Union. The Bruins’ two wins came against two arch-rivals, St. Andrew’s at home and St. Al on the road.

Even though the Bruins have struggled the last three games, the team has never given up.

See FOOTBALL, PAGE 8

Photo by Leila de Gruy/The Bear Facts St. Joseph Catholic School Bruins traveled to Greenville on Friday, Sept.

18, where they lost to St. Joe Greenville.

Lady Bruins spike back St. Joe volleyball team wins district title, eyes spot in playoffs and run for state championship

Cross Country, Page 9

High hopes for Bruin soccer

By JOSHUA CLAYTON The Bear Facts

INSIDE ilence fell on the n Seniors play court as the St. Joe Lady Bruins prepared important role to serve to the PAGE 9 Ridgeland Lady Titans.

Bruin senior Katelyn Hanneke delivered the final blow in the season’s third volleyball match, leading St. Joe to a 17-12 win in the last of five games against the Titans St. Joe won the match 3-2. As of Monday, two months into the 2015 season, the Lady Bruins are district champions – 21-12 overall and 8-0 in district play. The team is eyeing a trip to the playoffs, with hopes of winning the state championship.

“There is an expectation that we will remain undefeated in district play,” said Toni Harris, the Lady Bruins coach. “Because of the strength of our team this year, we should

The sun hasn’t risen.

Rows of teenagers line up at the deep end as Coach Lauri Collins’s voice ripples across the water.

“Ready. Go,” she shouts.

It is 5:30 a.m. and time for St. Joe swim practice.

Coach Collins points across the pool toward Jack Collins, her son, and Sophia Waddingham – seLAURI COLLINS niors.

“Those are my leaders,” Coach Collins says.

The two seniors are at the front of rows that separate 60 swimmers.

The team usuJACK ally has more COLLINS members than the football team, and this year’s edition is no exception.

Swimming is arguably the most accessible sport at St. Joe beLEILA cause Coach DE GRUY Collins welcomes any one. It does not matter if you are a veteran swimmer or just started yesterday, she encourages students to participate if they want.

Coach Collins pushes the more experienced swimmers to improve their technique, while a volunteer parent coach helps with the novice team members.

The longtime coach points out that she’s mentored half of the current team members through competitive swimming even in elementary school.

One thing anyone diving in the pool does know is that there is no such thing as an easy swim practice. Everyone present is

See VOLLEYBALL, PAGE 9

See SWIM, PAGE 8

The St. Joe Bruin boys and girls soccer teams have already started conditioning in anticipation of the 2015-2016 season.

The boys open the season at home on Nov. 12 against Sacred Heart Catholic School.

The girls team begin defending their 2014 state championship at home on Nov. 12 against Sacred Heart.

Todd expects

By GRANT MURPHY The Bear Facts

triplets

Miller Todd, St. Joe’s head football coach and athletic director, is adding three to the home team.

MILLER His wife is TODD expecting triplets, two girls and a boy.

Coach Todd and his wife already have a little girl.

S

Sports forms due now

Students who participate in any sport for the 2015-2016 school year must complete these forms as soon as possible: an Informed Consent Form, a Concussion Information Form, a Medical Release Form, and a Diocesan Release Form/Athletic Participation Agreement. They can contact Coach David Wissel for more information.

Swim team makes splash

ABOVE: Genin Harkey serves in this photo from the 2014 Lady Bruin volleyball season.

The Bear Facts file photo TOP: Members of the 2015 Lady Bruins volleyball team huddle with Coach Toni Harris on the court of the St. Joe gym. The Bruins are off to a great start, sporting a 21-12 record and eyeing the state playoffs. Photo by Hope Engle/The Bear Facts

Hanneke: A great example of an effective student leader

T

he Lady Bruins soccer team was up 2-0 with about 20 minutes left in the state championship game when junior Katelyn Hanneke GRANT waited near the goal.

MURPHY Sports Editor Seconds later, Hanneke jumped up, hit the soccer ball with her head and slammed it in for the score – putting the Bruins up 3-0 over South Pontotoc.

The mostly partisan crowd in the stands

“

at Arrow Stadium on the Clinton High School campus erupted in cheers.

Katelyn is just “It felt amazing to score with a header in the championship game,” one of those players Hanneke said recently. “It gave us a bigger lead, and it just felt like we were that you can always that much closer to winning the game.” count on to help the Hanneke’s goal in fact turned out team.” to be the last score of the game. The 3-point lead was too much for South – Maddie Grace Pontotoc on a crisp, cool, sunny afternoon on Saturday, Feb. 7.

LaFleur The Bruins won the game, ending the 2015 season with a 15-7-1 record Hanneke proved to play a critical and St. Joe’s first state championship in part, just like she has throughout her girls soccer since 2006. career as a student athlete at St. Joe.

“Katelyn is just one of those players that you can always count on to help the team out,” said sophomore Maddie Grace LaFleur, Hanneke’s soccer teammate.

“She is definitely a leader,” LaFleur said. “And you can always feel her presence when she is on the field.”

Hanneke has played soccer since she was about 4. She always had a passion for the game and has definitely stood out from her peers as a skill player and team leader.

For years, she dreamt of winning the state soccer championship at St. Joe. While she and her soccer teammates

hope for a repeat next season, Hanneke also has her eyes set on something else.

Hanneke would like to bring home a state championship for the Lady Bruins volleyball team. Nearing the end of the season, the volleyball team sports a 2112 overall record with its eyes firmly set on the playoffs.

“The practices have been long and tiring this year,” Hanneke said. “But in the end, I think it will help us as a whole.”

When not hitting the volleyball court or the soccer field, you can often find See MURPHY COLUMN, PAGE 9