The Bear Facts: April 2013 Edition

The

Bear

VOLUME 16, ISSUE NO. 5

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Facts

APRIL 19, 2013

www.sjbearfacts.com

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SAINT JOSEPH CATHOLIC SCHOOL

St. Joe president: Ready for the challenge

By MAGGIE SMITH and SARA POWELL The Bear Facts Last Spring, Sister Deborah Hughes, the Catholic schools superintendent, along with the St. Joseph Advisory Council, added a new leadership position at St. Joe. After a long search, St. Joe has a president: Mike Juhas, a Metairie, La., native who is principal of Queen of Angels Catholic School in Port Angeles, Wash.

Juhas will start at St. Joe on July 1 – in time for the 2013-2014 school year.

As president, he will focus on financial

and public relations issues at St. Joe. Last week, Juhas answered by email a series of questions posed

by The Bear Facts. Here are his responses.

tors that attracted me to St. Joe. My first contact about the position was with Superintendent Sister Deborah Hughes, who made a wonderful first impression upon me.

After doing online research (I’m a bit of a techie and Google monster), I felt confident that St. Joe would be a perfect fit. I love the area, which is close to my family, and I was incredibly impressed with the school on my campus tour.

MIKE JUHAS The Bear The staff I met on my tour made a Facts: What atgreat impression. Father Mike Flannery, tracted you to St. Joseph Catholic the search committee and the advisory School? council showed me wonderful Southern Mike Juhas: There were several fac- hospitality, and through prayer I knew

this was where God was calling me to be.

The Bear Facts: What will be your job responsibilities as president of St. Joe? Juhas: As president I’ll be working on the external pieces of St. Joe. Strategic planning, fundraising, marketing/ public relations and enrollment management will be my primary focuses, along with the Catholic identity of our faith community.

Basically, my job is to make sure everyone knows how wonderfully talented our staff and students are and to support these efforts by planning for the future

and securing resources to support continued growth and excellence as a Catholic school.

The Bear Facts: What do you hope to accomplish as St. Joe president?

Juhas: My hopes are for the Jackson Metroplex (Jackson, Ridgeland, Madison, Canton, etc.) to come to realize that what we have at St. Joe is one-of-a-kind and second to none.

I want our name to be at the forefront of education in our area and to be considered the leader when it comes to best practices. I want the public to know about it when anytime something See PRESIDENT, Page 3

IT’S SHOW TIME, FOLKS! Seniors

sell and display artwork

St. Joe students practice long hours to stage ambitious, award-winning musical ‘The Music Man’

By KATHRYN SCKIETS The Bear Facts

Story by Bria Paige

I

t’s all hands on deck for the St. Joe theater department with the spring musical, “The Music Man,” premiering tonight.

Weeks of daily practices have been intense. Lines and songs have been memorized. And all of the singing and dancing have been perfected.

Now, it’s curtain time.

musical has been an inMORE INSIDE teresting challenge for the n Unlikely theater department. students sing, Although the musical dance, Page 5 would be a challenge for n Backstage any school, it’s no match for crew, the close-knit, hard-working Page 5 St. Joe theater community. n Editorial: “The Music Man” is a Don’t miss story about a con-man, this musical, Harold Hill, portrayed by Page 2 The big production, which has a 7 p.m. perfor- sophomore Andrew Mormance tonight and Saturday and a 2 p.m. matinee gan, who travels to River City, Iowa, where he convinces the townspeople Sunday, features a 45-student cast. Accompanyinto giving him money to form a boy’s band. ing the performers is a backstage, lighting and “Harold is very confident – I wouldn’t say sound crew. And playing the music is an orchestra narcissistic, but he knows his way,” Morgan said. composed of teachers and students.

“He is very streetwise, and he can definitely dis“The student body should prepare themselves tract someone into giving him what he wants.” for a different kind of show, but very exciting Morgan is joined by junior Maggie Smith, who Top photo by Sara Powell, nonetheless,” said Rachael Kenyon, the St. Joe plays the role of Marian – a librarian and Harold’s bottom photo by Halle Anderson/The Bear Facts theater teacher and director of the musical.

“The Music Man” is indeed a different kind of love-interest. This is not the first performance for In the top photo, “The Music Man” cast practices in the the pair. Morgan and Smith have worked together Fine Arts theater. In the bottom photo, band director musical production. Filled with complex music, Ronnie Russell leads “The Music Man” orchestra. fun dancing and a unique story line, this year’s See MUSICAL, Page 5

St. Joseph MORE INSIDE Catholic School’s n Art show Fine Arts building photos, was filled with Page 7 bright colors and admiring faces Sunday, March 24, for the annual Senior Art Show where seniors displayed original work to families, friends and classmates.

In the lobby and the hallways, people saw paintings, drawings and sculptures that seniors created during their high school years. The artwork came from various art and pottery classes.

“The Senior Art Show is a wonderful opportunity to discover our classmates’ hidden talents,” said Shannon Harkins of Madison, a senior art student. “We have SHANNON HARKINS so much artistic ability in our class, and I feel like this is a bond that holds us together. The show definitely would not have been possible without the hard work of Mrs. Turner and Mrs. Harris.”

The walls of the Fine Arts building were crammed with many different works of art in all different types of mediums, from oil pastel to mixed media.

Paintings that depicted moments in St. Joe history, such as the 2011 musical “Hello, Dolly!” and the morning a group of teachers performed an impromptu dance to their version of “Friday,” showed art’s ability to recreate memories and emotions.

Attendees also viewed pottery from this year’s seniors. Pottery class is available to art students who want to expand their artistic ability, and exhibits of masterfully crafted teacups, bowls and small animals showed off their talent.

“I didn’t realize my peers were so talented,” said senior Kylan Toohey of Madison, one of the many students who enjoyed the art show. “The night really made me appreciate the hard work that goes into the art classes all year round.”

Elisabeth Scott, Sara Powell named editors of The Bear Facts and The Shield

By RACHEL REDDIX The Bear Facts St. Joseph junior Elisabeth Scott has been named editor of The Bear Facts and junior Sara Powell has been named editor of The Shield for the 2013-2014 school year.

Scott, a writer for the paper this year, will lead a staff of journalism students in editing and publishing the newspaper.

Scott, who will replace graduating senior editors Teryn Yazdani and Miranda Barrett, begins her new role with this

INSIDE THIS EDITION

edition.

“I hope to create a paper that students will look forward to reading when issues are handed out in class,” she said.

Powell, who has written and ELISABETH SCOTT taken photographs for The Bear Facts this year and has helped pro-

duce next year’s edition of The Shield, will lead a staff of students and oversee the creation and production of the 2014 yearbook.

Powell will replace graduating senior editor SARA POWELL Searcy Fox and graduating senior assistant editor Milena Sebuktekin.

“I want to make next year’s yearbook even better than this year’s upcoming yearbook,” Powell said. “I plan on putting all my time and effort into The Shield next year.”

Powell plans to attend a yearbook conference in June at Northwest Rankin High School where she will develop a theme and design a cover for the yearbook. The conference is sponsored by Balfour, which prints The Shield.

“Sara and Elisabeth are hardworking and creative people. I believe they’re fit for their chief positions next year,” said

n Running for Cystic Fibrosis, Page 6 n Standout middle school tennis player, Page 8 n Sports Editor Jack Hall on baseball, Page 8

junior, Halle Anderson, who takes over this issue as the Opinion Page editor, Scott and Powell were appointed editor after applying for the jobs this semester. Both were required to write an essay outlining what they plan to accomplish as editor.

“Elisabeth and Sara have a passion for the newspaper and the yearbook,” said Terry R. Cassreino, St. Joe’s journalism teacher and publications adviser. “Their hard work, plans, dedication and leadership will build on the success we have experienced this year.”

Visit The Bear Facts Online www.sjbearfacts.com

Opinion

PAGE 2

New year, new beginning

A

s the 2012-2013 school year comes to a close, students are preparing for summer vacation.

However, at the The Bear Facts, the newspaper staff will be preparing for next year’s editions of your student newspaper.

As the new editor for the paper, I hope to produce a newspaper of which all students, teachers and members of the St. Joe family can be proud. It will be a newspaper students will look forward to reading.

Not only will the pages be filled with pictures of students, but I want to bring back some of the students’ favorite columns.

A new idea we have is to

produce more editions of the newspaper.

We will try to produce at least two editions of The Bear ELISABETH SCOTT Facts a quarter.

Along with more editions, we want to include the students in the paper more.

Students who are not in journalism class will be encouraged and asked to guest write, report and take pictures for the newspaper.

After all, like I said, this is your newspaper.

In addition to a newspaper in print, we have a developing, still-evolving Web site. The Web site, called The Bear Facts Online, and found at www. sjbearfacts.com, features all of the stories in the newspaper along with ones that were not in the newspaper.

The Web site also showcases pictures and photo galleries of school life, sporting events and student news events.

As editor of the newspaper, my job is to oversee the entire production of the newspaper and Web site – a responsibility that includes designing pages of the newspaper and assigning

stories to reporters. With the guidance of Mr. Cassreino, the faculty adviser and journalism teacher, I also will help edit and oversee stories and monitor the newspaper production.

The other editors working on the newspaper are Bria Paige, the managing editor; Halle Anderson, the opinion page editor; and Jack Hall, the sports editor.

It will be a challenge to create a newspaper that is better than this year’s editions, but we will strive to produce the best newspaper we can.

Elisabeth Scott, a junior at St. Joe, is editor of The Bear Facts.

Thanks, from a grateful student

A

s my mom walks in from a hard day of work, she places her keys down then suddenly remembers one of my sisters has practice.

Mom desperately asks me to drive my sister to practice. No problem. I jump at it.

And as I drive, I am reminded of the many sacrifices my parents have made and continue to make to allow me to attend St. Joseph Catholic School.

Everyday can seem like a constant ‘“going-through-the -motion” day. Sometimes I know I forget how lucky I am.

Anytime I ask for something, I have to pull back and remember not to act like a “privileged” child – you know, the kind who never realizes what he or she has and are never

Everyday can seem like a constant “going-throughthe-motion” day.

Sometimes I know I forget how lucky I am. satisfied.

I have to tell myself I’m not the kind of girl you may see in a movie who is usually looked at as the “it” girl who has and gets anything she wants whenever she asks for it.

Sometimes, anyone can be this girl at any time. It’s OK to want things – that’s human nature. It is a whole other story

when you start to want things that are not necessities.

We can easily be blind-sided by the worldly HALLE ANDERSON things. I know now from growing up a little that the real treasures are in Heaven, and we must be grateful for what we have on earth.

We also must be excited for what God has planned for us in Heaven. Next time mom, dad, grandma, or whomever writes that check to St. Joe, think first before asking for something that

you know you can live without.

Instead give them hugs and a bunch of love for being so generous in giving you the best education possible.

Don’t get me wrong.

A public school education can be just as great, which is something I hear my dad constantly say. But it is definitely all about how the students and teachers work as one.

As this year ends, I hope everyone has seen that this has been a great year all in itself just because we were here at St. Joseph Catholic School.

Halle Anderson, a junior at St. Joe, is the Opinion Page editor for The Bear Facts.

Easter Monday holiday would be nice

T

he fourth and final quarter of the school year, despite being so close to the summer vacation, is for many students one of the busiest and most stressful times of the year.

In addition to regular schoolwork, after school jobs and family activities, many students find themselves bogged down with the extra stresses of sports such as baseball, track and softball. Others are involved in the fine arts activities of the spring concert and the school musical. And many upperclassmen have prom – not to mention the graduation and college preparations that we seniors are also juggling.

With all the hustle and bustle of these activities, we students look forward to taking a break from school for a few days and spending some time with our families to celebrate the resurrection of Jesus Christ during Easter break.

However, this year’s break was, in fact, more of a threeday weekend as students were

not given Easter Monday off from school.

After 40 days of fasting and almsgiving during the solemn KATHRYN SCKIETS season of Lent, in which we prepare ourselves for Jesus’ death and resurrection, Easter, like the spring season after winter, is a time filled with happiness and rejoicing over the new life given to us by Christ.

Although I was happy to spend time with my friends and family on Easter Sunday, I couldn’t help but notice that the joy of the most celebrated day in the church felt somewhat diminished by the fact that I had to get up early to attend school the next day.

Having school on Easter Monday also interfered with many students’ usual traveling

plans for Easter break. Without an extra day of break, many students were unable to spend Easter with their family members who live far away.

With many students upset about the prospect of going to school the day after Easter, there was controversy over whether or not anyone would come to school at all – especially the seniors. Even though most people ended up going to school anyway, they went grumbling and complaining about the unfairness of it all. These bad attitudes and a general

atmosphere of laziness in the classrooms hardly contributed to what should have been a joyous day for the students and faculty of this Catholic school.

Easter Monday is still considered a holiday in the Christian and Catholic cultures, and everyone at St. Joseph deserves an extra day of rest to take a break from the business of school and enjoy the beginning of the Easter season.

Kathryn Sckiets is a senior at St. Joe and graduates in May.

With all the hustle and bustle of these activities, we students look forward to taking a break fro school for a few days and spending some time with our families to celebrate the resurrection of Jesus Christ during Easter break.

Our View

APRIL 19, 2013

Rehearsal over for seniors

As St. Joe students prepare for the spring musical, it’s easy to draw parallels between cast members who have been rehearsing for weeks and seniors who are finishing their high school career.

On the day of the first play practice, actors are nervous and likely feel as awkward as a high school freshman on the first day of school. As practice moves along, actors begin to feel like a sophomore – a bit more at ease, but wondering if things will work out. At that moment, students may feel as though it’s impossible to mount such a big production.

Play practice moves along. Things start to make sense. The play becomes more organized. Actors begin to feel good and their self confidence increases.

Eleventh graders feel much the same way.

Finally, it’s premiere week. This is what they’ve have been waiting for. Seniors approaching graduation experience similar feelings. Senior year may not seem easy, but it can be done.

Last year’s senior class was great. The class before was awesome. This year’s class is spectacular.

Seniors are our leaders. They are our voices, from the students to the administration. They can effect change and set a standard for the future.

Time is running out. We are near the end of the school year. Our seniors are about to leave and start their lives as young adults. Teachers have done all they can to prepare them.

Sometimes seniors forget they are the oldest at the school and everything they do is watched closely by others. But that happens. As we inch closer to graduation, we wish seniors the best as they wrap up this momentous year in their lives.

Don’t miss ‘The Music Man’

This weekend, you won’t be able to escape the “The Music Man” – this year’s spring musical.

For weeks, student actors and musicians have been rehearsing lines, songs and dances.

Everyone has worked hard on the play, as evidenced in stories on Pages 1 and 5 of today’s The Bear Facts. Sometimes we forget the effort it takes to stage such an ambitious production.

Trust us: “The Music Man” is full of catchy songs and great dancing. These students deserve our support. Don’t miss it. Tickets are $10. Curtain time is 7 p.m. Friday and Saturday and 2 p.m. Sunday.

Welcome to the St. Joe family, Mr. Juhas

We congratulate and welcome Mike Juhas as the new president for St. Joseph Catholic School.

We are excited and happy to have someone ready to team with Principal Keith Barnes and guide our school into the future. We look forward to seeing Mr. Juhas on campus next fall. We pray God gives him the wisdom and guidance for every decision he makes. And we want to make sure Mr. Juhas and his family feel a welcome part of the St. Joe community.

The Bear Facts Elisabeth Scott Editor Bria Paige Managing Editor Halle Anderson Opinion Page Editor

Student Views

Sara Powell, staff writer of The Bear Facts, asked St. Joseph Catholic School students about their plans for the summer. Here is what some of them said:

Jax Rasmussen, 7th Grade “I am going to New York to my grandparents’ cottage on the country side.”

Natalie Ford, 8th Grade “I want to go to New Stage summer camp and also work on my sewing skills.”

Maddie McCafferty, 9th Grade “I am going to a New Stage Theater camp and working at Bible school at St. Richard’s.”

Meredith King, 10th Grade “I am going to Australia with People to People.”

Bailey Brilley, 11th Grade “I am going to be working as a life guard and going on a mission trip to Belize.”

Aja Hide, 12th Grade “I will probably go to summer school to prepare for college and get a summer job.”

Terry R. Cassreino, Faculty Adviser Keith Barnes, 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 © 2013

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 or the staff, leadership and administration of St. Joseph Catholic School.

If you disagree with any columnists’ opinions or want to share your 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 sjbearfacts@gmail.com. Or mail them to: Letters to the Editor, The Bear Facts, P.O. Box 2027, Madison, MS 39130-2927

APRIL 19, 2013

Bruin News

PAGE 3

St. Joe wins big in journalism contest

By LONDON HATTEN The Bear Facts OXFORD – St. Joe journalism students took home 24 awards, including one for the best student newspaper among small high schools across the state, from the 2013 Mississippi Scholastic Press Association convention.

The convention attracts hundreds of high school journalists from across the state. Students spent the day on the University of Mississippi campus attending newspaper and yearbook workshops.

This year’s event was Thursday, March 28.

St. Joe is a 2A school that competed in the awards program against 1A, 2A, and 3A schools. Among the competitors were such Jackson-area schools as Jackson Academy, Jackson Prep and St. Andrew’s Episcopal School.

“We have a great, talented, dedicated group of journalism students who have worked hard all year to produce an outstanding school newspaper and year-

book,” said Keith Barnes, principal of St. Joe. “I would put our students’ products up against any other school in the state.”

Terry R. Cassreino, St. Joe’s journalism teacher, also praised the students.

“To have students recognized for publishing the best newspaper in the state is a major achievement,” said Cassreino, a former longtime newspaper reporter, editor and political columnist who now teaches English and journalism. nnn Here is a complete list of awards

Yearbook Awards

Overall Ad Design n First Place, The Shield

Newspaper Staff Awards

General Excellence (the top award) n First Place: The Bear Facts Best News Writing n First Place: The Bear Facts

Best Feature Writing n Third Place: The Bear Facts Best Sports Writing n First Place: The Bear Facts Best Layout & Design n First Place: The Bear Facts

Student Awards

News Writing n First Place: Kathryn Sckiets for her story in September about John Lee’s first novel n Third place: Elisabeth Scott for her story in November about the junior-senior service day. n Honorable Mention: Rachel Reddix for her story in September about the speech and debate team

Dughiero

Entertainment Writing n First Place: Olivia Post for her story in Sports Column n First Place: Jack Butts for his column September previewing the school play in December about the Ole Miss-Missis- “And Then There Were None” sippi State football game Page Design n First Place: Matthew McKinley for Sports Writing n First Place: Butts for his story in No- the front page in November commemovember commemorating the football rating the football team’s perfect season n Second Place: Barrett for the front team’s perfect season n Second Place: Butts for his story in page in December September about the 2013 football seaIndividual Columns son n Honorable Mention: Sam Osborne for n Third Place: Yazdani for her Opinion his story in September about the volley Page column in December ball team.

Carry-in Competition

Best in Show (top award) Sports Photos Feature Writing n Second Place: Butts for his photo- n Third Place: The Bear Facts staff for n First Place: Halle Anderson for her graphs in November commemorating the March issue story in December about dating the football team’s perfect season Centerspread Design n Second Place: Teryn Yazdani for her n Third Place: McKinley for his work story in September about Joseph Edge Sports Features n Third Place: Miranda Barrett for n Third Place: London Hatten for her on the two-page inside spread on March for Life her story in December about Giacomo story in December about cheerleading

PRESIDENT, continued from Page 1 special happens at St. Joe. I plan to secure the resources necessary to reach all of our dreams as a school and for families to know when they walk through our doors that our school is the one their children should attend to help them become the best versions of themselves.

I want members of the school community to embrace St. Joe as part of their family and feel connected to St. Joe for their whole lives.

The Bear Facts: How can students at St. Joe help you achieve those goals?

Juhas: There are several things students can do to help. First and foremost, by performing the best you can at whatever you do. Whether it’s classroom studies, testing or extracurricular activities, doing your best reflects positively upon St. Joe and is pleasing to God. Being friendly faces when new families and supporters come on campus shows others how special our school is. Telling others about how much you value your St. Joe education is the best way to keep that positive vibe flowing and reach new prospective families and supporters.

The Bear Facts: What specific qualities do you bring to the job of president?

Juhas: I bring an enthusiasm for excellence and an ability to think outside of the box to make the most of what we have. I love people and truly want to become friends with everyone I meet.

I’ll be St. Joe’s biggest promoter and cheerleader. I have a strong competitive nature, and I’ll desire for us to seek the magis (a Jesuit term for always seeking to get better at everything we do).

The Bear Facts: With St. Joe moving toward a president-principal form of leadership, can you tell us your plans for working as a team with Principal Keith Barnes to lead the school into the future?

Juhas: I’ve spent time with Mr. Barnes and can tell you I’m truly impressed by him. I see a great man with impeccable character and a true love of St. Joe. We have very similar leadership styles and backgrounds, so I envision us working as a wonderful team where each of us strengthens the other. We’ll be able to support each other in our responsibilities to make the school the best it can be.

One of my undergraduate majors was Classics, and it reminds me of the Roman Republic model with two consuls; I am excited about this collaborative model and know it will serve St. Joe well.

THE MIKE JUHAS FILE n NAME: Michael P. Juhas Jr. n HOMETOWN: Metairie, La. n CURRENT JOB: Principal, Queen of Angels School, Port Angeles, Wash. n NEW JOB: President, St. Joseph Catholic School n EDUCATION: Graduate, Jesuit High School, New Orleans; bachelor’s degree, University of Mississippi; master’s degree, University of Cincinnati n FAMILY: Married with three children The Bear Facts: You have served as principal of a Catholic school in Washington state. How has that prepared you for your position at St. Joe? Juhas: It’s been a tremendous preparation. I’ve already been successful at doing what I’ll be doing at St. Joe, and I’ve learned plenty of lessons on the job.

I’ve had to learn all aspects of school

leadership, internal and external, at my current school and hone my skills to grow my school.

Serving on the principal leadership team of an archdiocese with 73 schools has given me the opportunity to interact with other principals and presidents and collect best practices from them.

The most important lesson I’ve learned is humility. I’ve learned that all things are possible by the Grace of God and that working together as a team is what allows for a school to be successful and build a culture of excellence.

The Bear Facts: As a University of Mississippi graduate and a native of the New Orleans area, how will your familiarity with Mississippi help you in your position?

Juhas: One of the big things will be that I know the South and love the South.

My years at Ole Miss were some of the best years of my life, and it is a common experience I share with many people in the area. Truly there is no place I’d rather be than in Madison, Miss.

Being from the New Orleans area, I’ve witnessed firsthand how some of the major Catholic schools in the area are successful, and I have so many connections to exceptional educational leaders all over the South that I’ve made throughout my career.

The Bear Facts: You are a graduate of a Catholic high school and serve as principal of a Catholic school. Can you share with us your thoughts about the value of a Catholic education?

Juhas: I think the value of Catholic education is eternal. As a Catholic school leader, it is my vision that the education we provide will lead our students on the path to Heaven. There is no greater reward for our labors than to lead students into the Arms of God. By instilling the moral values of a Catholic education along with the academic rigor and leadership skills the Catholic school brand brings, we are educating the whole child through the lens of Christ.

The Bear Facts: If you could let everyone in the St. Joe community know one thing about you, what would it be?

Juhas: I love travel, especially international travel, and I value what I can learn from other cultures and my interactions with the people I meet in everyday life.

I’ve lived in China, where I met my wife, and I’ve visited 16 countries. I feel in my heart that all people are God’s children and that by reaching out to them we can learn more about ourselves and about God’s Love through His Creation.

Bruin News

PAGE 4

APRIL 19, 2013

St. Joe students spend spring break in France

By RACHEL DIVINE The Bear Facts This Spring Break, a group of 13 St. Joe students went on the trip of a lifetime.

Thirteen students, two parents, two teachers, freshman English teacher Mrs. King’s daughter and junior Rachel Divine’s grandmother all traveled to France.

When they landed in France, they met their tour guide, Eleonore Boudy. From there, they went to the hotel they would be staying in for the next two days while they were in Paris.

“All the girls were very polite, lovely and curious, and it seems to me that they were my children,” Boudy said.

The week-long trip was organized by Bobbi Naylor, who teaches French at St. Joe. It was open to all French students and was designed to allow them to experience French culture and visit landmarks they discussed in class.

Touring began as soon as everyone settled into their hotel. Everyone immediately went on a walking tour of Paris; they saw things that they had only seen in movies and read about in books.

“Everything they saw for the first time, I saw it through their eyes. So, every stop, every monument, every city and every piece of art was new to me, too,” Naylor said.

The girls walked around the Louvre and saw the Mona Lisa. They saw things not just studied in history or French class, but also their religion classes. They saw paintings like The Last Supper.

The first night they saw what many had been waiting for, the Eiffel Tower.

They stopped for a quick photo op, but left quickly for a cruise on the Seine River.

The next day, they took a bus tour of Paris during which they saw the Arc de Triomphe and stopped on the ChampsElysees – a very popular street for shopping. There, they had a little free time.

They also went to the Palace of Versailles. They saw the State Apartments, the Hall of Mirrors, and the Gardens of

“Everything they saw for the first time, I saw it through their eyes.”

- Bobbi Naylor, St. Joe French teacher Versailles.

They next day they traveled to Avignon, France.

To get there they took the fastest train in the world, the Bullet Train. Speeding along at 200 mph, it took just a couple hours to get there.

Once they arrived in Avignon, they settled into their hotel and toured the city.

They saw and toured the Pope’s palace.

The next day they toured Provence.

They also went to the small towns of Pont du Gard; they toured and had some free time in Nimes where they went to an amphitheater; and they went to the very small town on the mountain side called Les Baux.

On Day 6, everyone traveled to Cas-

sis, France, a small seaside town where they took a Calanques cruise.

They traveled to Nice and settled in their hotel. This would be the last time they stayed somewhere new. They toured Old Nice and enjoyed the best gelato around.

On Day 7 they went to a completely different country, Monaco. They went to Monte Carlo where they got to see the Prince’s mansion and Grace Kelly’s grave.

They also traveled to Eze, where they visited a Parfumerie, a perfume factory.

“It was cool to learn about this because the perfumes are made in France and you can only get them in France. So when we came home, we had something that no one else has,” said junior Kaela Smyth.

On their final day in France, everyone was free to do what they wanted. Some wanted to go to the beach. So, they took a group trip to the beach and shopped.

It wasn’t all easy, though.

There was the language barrier. Naylor was the only person fluent in French on this trip; since she couldn’t be with everyone at the same time, many had to fend for themselves – which, for some, was more of a challenge than to others.

“They all speak French so well,” Naylor said. “I’ve never taken a group that could really speak French that well.”

Naylor said the last night was her favorite because everyone was so sad to be leaving but were so full of joy. She said she was “smiling and crying all at the same time.”

“Their love of the language and their SUBMITTED PHOTO appreciation of France really made this group so different and interesting,” Nay- Allie Jones, left, Karson Nelson, Rachel Divine, Anna Claire Chastain and Lauren Tonos pose in front of the Eiffel Tower while on a Spring Break 2013 lor said.

Polk’s Drugs 118 East Main Street Florence (601) 845-8610

trip to France.

APRIL 19, 2013

Bruin News

PAGE 5

Unlikely students will ‘rock’ you

By BRIA PAIGE The Bear Facts

A group of unlikely boys went from musical novices to musical geniuses in just a matter of months after they were recruited to participate in the spring musical, “The Music Man.” Tim Cook, Angel Espino, Mason Fridge, Charles King, Sam Osborne, Matthew Harkey, Ian Vandevender, Jax Rasmussen, Jason Price, Josh McClenty and T.J. Riley make up the cast of boys drafted to star in the opening scene of the play, Rock Island, which has been nick-named the “train scene.”

“It’s a lot of pressure because we’re the first ones out on the stage,” said Rasmussen, a seventh-grader who plays one of the traveling salesmen in the train scene.

“We set the standard for the entire play,” Rasmussen said. “And the scene is really hard because we have to bounce on the beat while we sing.”

“The Music Man” opens with a train full of salesmen discussing or, rather, singing about consumer credit and their business.

All of the boys are seated on the train.

Each of the salesman takes his turn in the spotlight by singing his lines in rapid-fire staccato rhythm.

The main aspect that makes this scene different from most is the complex music.

Photo by Halle Anderson/The Bear Facts The difficult music paired with the Actors in the opening production number clown around on stage during rehearsal. Pictured are, from left, Sam challenging singing, which is more like Osborne, Josh McClenty, Matthew Harkey, Jason Price and Jax Rasmussen. The caution tape separated performers an old-school rap, has made for an inin rehearsal from the edge of the orchestra pit; it will be removed for the actual performances.

MUSICAL, continued from Page 1 in the past with previous plays SPRING MUSICAL and in speech and debate as duo partners.

“Maggie is great,” Morgan n THE PLAY: “The Music said. “She really is Marian, just Man,” by Meredith Wilson everything Maggie does is just this standard Broadway strong n THE TIME: Curtain and independent woman. And is 7 p.m. tonight, 7 p.m. that’s exactly who Marian is.”

Saturday and 2 p.m.

A new and different aspect to Sunday this year’s musical is the choren THE TICKETS: $10 ographer. Byron Joseph, a progeneral admission, fessional dancer, is the choreogavailable at the door rapher for the spring musical.

Sophomore Mia Nichols, who n THE SPONSOR: The portrays a town resident in the theater department at St. musical, said the dancing is hard Joseph Catholic School “especially when you have no background in it.”

“It’s so hard to look graceful when you’re learning something complex compared to the previdifferent,” Nichols said. “And ous musicals.

“The music is very challengI’m not really used to ballet.”

The music for the play is very ing because it has been adapted

from a professional score by Mr. Russell,” said Kathryn Sckiets, a senior who is playing in the orchestra.

Ronnie Russell, the school’s band director, has arranged the music for the St. Joe production.

“But in the end, it makes us all better musicians, and it’s very rewarding,” Sckiets said. “And playing it in the orchestra pit sounds amazing. I think it’s really going to add to the atmosphere of the play.”

With the countdown to the play taking place, many around the St. Joe community anticipate the opening night for the play.

“The acting is amazing, the dancing is amazing,” Kenyon said.

“It’s really neat stuff. And I’m really excited about the show. It’s going to be really fun.”

“It’s a lot of pressure because we’re the first ones out on the stage.

We set the standard for the entire play.”

– Jax Rasmussen, a seventh-grader who performs in the opening number

teresting mix for the group of unexperienced boys.

“It’s like an old- timey rap,” said Molly Windham, the school’s choir teacher.

“It’s a lot of rhythmic speaking, and the boys had to figure all of it out. It was like putting together a puzzle. But I think they’re having fun with it.”

It’s not only fun for the boys, but also for others watching them transform into these rapping professionals.

“It’s a good start to the play, very active and fun,” said sophomore Farrah Jones, who plays a resident in the production.

“It’s funny watching your fellow cast members jumping around having fun and, quote-unquote, rapping.”

The boys may not have been the most likely candidates to open the play on opening night, but the spotlight will be on them tonight and this weekend.

And they are sure to please.

Behind the scenes with the backstage crew

By TESS LOTT The Bear Facts Spring usually means warmer weather, flowers – and the end of school drawing near.

For some hardworking St. Joe students, however, spring means making this year’s musical, “The Music Man,” the best the school has seen.

Performers act, sing and dance; orchestra members practice and mark music; and everyone stresses as opening night approaches.

But before the spotlight hits the stage, someone must work the lights, paint the sets and create and organize everything seen and unseen on stage. This group

of workers is the backstage crew – the key ingredient to a successful play.

The backstage crew is as important as any other part in the musical.

They must memorize cues, know where to put all props and sets, and be present at every practice and performance. Without them, there would be no set or lights.

Why, though, would you help with backstage?

“It keeps you diverse,” said 10th grader DeZell Lathon, the backstage manager.

“We have an option of doing what we want according to our strengths. Being a part of the backstage crew helps us bond

and gives us knowledge to use in future performances. Anyone can help backstage if they’re willing.”

Say, for example, you love theater but aren’t particularly great at it or you are too shy to be onstage. Joining the backstage crew gives you a chance to help with the play while not being nervous you will mess up lines or play a wrong note.

The backstage crew also gives you a chance at making new friends.

The backstage crew can never have too many helping hands, so don’t be afraid to sign up next year and help make the fall play or spring musical the best it can be.

Practice makes perfect: ‘The Music Man’ in rehearsal

Photo by Elisabeth Scott/The Bear Facts From right, Loden Snell, Ashley German, Matthew Hosler, Patrick Morgan and Michael Mohr Photo by Halle Anderson/The Bear Facts practice with members of “The Music Man” orchestra.

Andrew Morgan, as the lead Harold Hill, rehearses a production number with the cast. The caution tape separated performers in rehearsal from the edge of the orchestra pit.

Photo by Halle Anderson/The Bear Facts St. Joe students rehearse the opening number from “The Music Man.” Pictured are, from left, Photo by Halle Anderson/The Bear Facts Jason Price, Timothy Cook, Jax Rasmussen, Matthew Harkey, T.J. Riley and Josh McClenty.

Kendall Comish, a member of the cast and backstage crew, pushes the train set into place.

Bruin News

PAGE 6

APRIL 19, 2013

Students help raise New style trends in place for spring and summer money to fight CF

By OLIVIA POST The Bear Facts Running, walking, breathing in fresh air – this is what Cystic Fibrosis Great Strides is all about at St. Joseph Catholic school.

Cystic Fibrosis is a disease that causes infections in the lungs and the digestive system and causes the mucus in the body to thicken.

Every year the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation hosts a fundraiser called Great Strides 5K walk/ run. Many of St. Joseph’s students attend this fundraiser in honor of fellow student, junior Joseph Edge – who was diagnosed with CF when he was 8.

Since his diagnosis, family, friends and the school community have pitched in to help out and find a cure to end Cystic Fibrosis.

“I appreciate life a lot more because I know how great of a gift it is because of CF,” Edge said.

The Great Strides walk/run

took place at Mirror Lake on March 24. Many St. Joe students, teachers and faculty attended the event and most of students participated in the walk or run – raising more than $3,500 dollars for the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation.

Great Strides raised $60,000 from the event.

“My family can’t put into words what it literally means when we see everyone from school coming to the race and donating money,” junior Anna Edge, Joseph’s twin, said. “CF has made us stronger and more aware and thankful for the little things in life.”

Some St. Joe students placed in the Great Strides races. Junior Abbie Dupont received the women’s first place, junior Caroline Bonin placed first in the girls’ 1119 year age group, junior Richard Brown placed first in the boys’ 11-19 year age group and Sam Osborne placed second in the boys’ 11-19 age group.

St. Joe always makes a big show out at the Great Strides rac-

es as many of their students show up with excitement ready to run the race.

The CF Foundation started the Great Strides races in 1989. Until now, more than 250,000 people have participated in the race.

More than $40 billion dollars has been raised over past years by people who have participated in the races.

Great Strides is one of the biggest fundraising movements of the CF Foundation in our country. Many of the CF hospitals around the country donate thousands of dollars to Great Strides.

“I really have to thank my family and friends for keeping me strong through my sickness, and I thank them for all of their support, too,” Joseph Edge said.

Kids and adults with CF thank Great Strides for all of their support and help to finding a cure and keeping CF patients strong and alive.

Even with a donation of only a penny, it is one extra step to finding a cure.

By JORDAN WELSH The Bear Facts Spring brings warm weather, beautiful flowers, breaks from school – but, most importantly, new clothes.

The top items of spring 2013 include pastel colors, high-waisted skirts, shorts, pants, sheer shirts, statement shoes, high-low dresses and small purses.

One of the prominent aspects of 2013 would be swapping last year’s neon colors with neutral or pastel colors. Style Magazine states that pairing a neutral top and skirt with a colored shoe or bag is the best way to stay on track in spring 2013.

Sheer pastel tops with “tank tops” or “bandos” underneath are in style this season.

Spring 2013 is somewhat 1960–inspired with its highwaisted shorts, pants and skirts.

Libby Story in Ridgeland is a retro-hippy inspired store.

Libby Story likes unique clothing, shoes and jewelry. Many

“The most popular theme for spring 2013 would be fringe.”

– Georgia Weissenger, sales associate with Free People high-waisted skirts, shorts and pants can be found in this store, in addition to one-of-a-kind jewelry.

Georgia Weissenger, a sales associate from Free People, said, “I think that the most popular theme for spring 2013 would be fringe.

We sell shoes, skirts, shirts and jewelry with fringe. I personally love fringe; even my purse has fringe on it.”

Fringe can be added to any outfit, whether to a purse, shoes, shirts, or even bathing suit to add something unique to an outfit.

Jacquelyn Massey, a junior at St. Joe, bought her orange fringe bag at Ross in Jackson. She said that she loves the size of the bag,

the color, but most importantly the uniqueness of the fringe.

Style Magazine includes articles about structured geometric bags and using modern metals in outfits for spring 2013.

For example, use a small gold or silver clutch with a pastel outfit to make Style Magazine proud.

Gold metallic wedges and silver shoes show up throughout Style Magazine. They are a way to dress up an outfit, or add some shine to an everyday outfit.

Statement shoes and jewelry are a must for this spring 2013 season.

Skinny heels are last season; wedges and thick heels are very popular for spring 2013.

Also, strappy gladiator flats are making a comeback.

“Strappy sandals are my favorite thing to wear in the spring and summer,” said Gabriella Nuzzo, a senior at St. Joe. “I plan on wearing Chacos or gladiator sandals through both seasons. They are just comfortable and easy to wear.”

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APRIL 19, 2013

PAGE 7

St. Joe Senior Art Show

Photo by Kathryn Sckiets/The Bear Facts Leighton Hill stands next to the artwork she displayed at the St. Joe Senior Art Show on March 24 in the Fine Arts Building. Lou Ann Turner, who teaches art, pottery and drawing, said she was Photo by Kathryn Sckiets/The Bear Facts impressed with this year’s show. “I thought everyone’s work flowed visually and left an impression Shannon Harkins stands next to artwork at the St. Joe Senior Art Show. on the viewer,” Turner said.

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PAGE 8

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Bruin Sports www.sjbearfacts.com

APRIL 19, 2013

•

ST. JOSEPH CATHOLIC SCHOOL

St. Joe track and field team sprints for the gold

By MATTHEW HARKEY The Bear Facts The St. Joseph Catholic School track and field team, coached by Kenner Purvis and David Wissel, are having another great season this year.

Both coaches said they expect to sweep district again this year – just like St. Joe has done the last couple of years.

“Riley Reeves has a great chance to hold her title as the fastest girl in the mile run,” said Wissel, who serves as the distance track coach.

Both Purvis and Wissel said they are happy with their runners.

Key runners for sprints include seniors Josh McClenty and Jeff Thomas; juniors Khari Harrison, Sam Osborne, Caitlyn Beasely,

“Our distance

team is looking really strong this year.”

- Dave Wissell, who serves as distance track coach

Karson Nelson and Josiah Paulding; sophomores Hunter Beene, Lindsey Funderburg and Mary Claire Logue; and freshman Christo Hicks.

“One of my favorite memories of track and field is going to the meets because you get to meet all these new people and you get to miss school to hang out with your

friends,” said junior runner Caitlyn Beasley.

Purvis, the sprinters coach, praised the team.

“We are looking forward to district this year,” Purvis said.

“We have a really strong team this year, and we have a good chance of winning district again for the third year in a row.”

The district tournament took place Wednesday and Thursday.

Field events were set for Wednesday; track events for Thursday.

“Our distance team is looking really strong this year,” Wissell said. “We have a couple of very strong veteran runners, and a lot of young runners that can step up when they are called on.”

The distance team’s key runners are seniors Ryan Crandall

Photo by Jack Hall/The Bear Facts Brantley Bariola, a freshman on the St. Joseph Catholic School track and field team, practices after school for a meet.

and Brennan Trask, Sophomore er Emma Dodson. The track team meets this year, it would have Riley Reeves, and middle school- have participated in three track been four but one got rained out.

STED-Y HAND ON COURT Talented eighth-grader Stedman Strickland lands coveted spot, proves his worth as member of Bruin varsity tennis team

By IAN VANDEVENDER The Bear Facts

F

By NIC HEMBREE The Bear Facts

rom the minute she watched Stedman win tennis tournaments as an 8-year-old, Jill Strickland knew her son had a wealth of talent on the court.

Today, Stedman Strickland is 13 years old and a secondyear starting player on the St. Joseph Catholic School varsity tennis team.

Stedman was so successful last year that he won the state title in mixed doubles with partner Mary Neely Meyers.

As the St. Joe tennis team continues with the 2013 season this spring, Stedman finds himself as a leading player for the school supported by a strong lineup of other players. What sets him apart, however, is the fact that he plays varsity while attending middle school as an eighth-grader.

Lynn Ogden, who coaches the varsity tennis team, said that Stedman is a huge factor in the team.

“He makes my job easier,” Ogden sad. “My job would be a whole lot easier if I had multiple Stedmans.”

Jill Strickland remembered how her son Stedman played in the 10-and-under division.

“We entered him into multiple tournaments,” she said, “and I realized he was good when he won his third straight tournament playing kids a couple of years older than him.”

Stedman’s father, John, actually put Stedman in tennis when he was just 3 years old. Stedman freely admits that he didn’t like tennis at first.

“But gradually I started liking it,” he said. “And now I play every day.”

Stedman plays and practices almost every chance he can. His parents put him in tennis because his father played tennis and wanted Stedman to play, too.

It worked.

“I play doubles, but I really like playing singles, too,” Stedman said.

Stedman leads a simple life. He attends school and hangs with his friends.

But when he hits the court, it’s all business.

“Some people play for fun and I do, too,” he said. “But I also play to win.”

Stedman is considered a key component of this year’s St. Joseph tennis team that has been able to win the state title the past two years and hopes to win again.

District team title goes to St. Joe tennis

Photo by Ian Vandevender/The Bear Facts Stedman Strickland, an eighth-grader at St. Joseph Catholic School, takes a swing on the tennis court. Strickland earned a spot on the varsity tennis team even though he is a middle school student.

Stedman as only a seventh grader won the state title in mixed doubles, and, on his own over summer, he won the Mississippi state junior qualifier, playing with 14-year-olds.

Jack Hoffman, a junior on the St. Joe tennis team, said that Stedman is a great

player.

“He plays like every day for three hours,” Hoffman said. “I’m pretty sure my all-time record with him is 300-1.

He’s in the lead.”

And Shelby Willoughby, another junior on the team, said that Stedman “is

so cute and really good at tennis. He’s probably the best on the team. He plays, like, all the time.”

St. Joe tennis is looking to bring home another title, and with Stedman on the team it seems that goal is within reach.

Once again, the mighty Bruins served up another district team title – along with many individual titles.

St. Joe swept teams in its district, consisting of Pisgah, Union and Eupora. In the individual district tournament, a St. Joe player won every spot that could have been won.

“I am very proud of all of them, especially for beating Pisgah,” Coach Lynn Ogden said. “They were making my life difficult with scheduling.”

Eighth grade star Stedman Strickland advanced easily, beating two opponents with little difficulty. Girls singles champion Lucy Loveless also breezed through the competition.

Senior Mike Boland and Junior Nic Hembree advanced through two pairs of opponents before having to beat Junior teammates Matthew Harkey and Jack Hoffman.

The same happened on the girls doubles bracket, where senior Jordan Welsh and freshman Eliza Strickland defeated teammates Marion Welsh and Shelby Willoughby.

Eighth grader Holt Stockett and freshman Genin Harkey cruised through their two matches.

With every single varsity player entering the 2A state individual tournament, Stockett said he has high hopes: “We’re going to win everything.”

The 2A state individual tournament will be May 1 at Parham Bridges Tennis Center. The Bruins also started the 2A state team tournament Monday against Baldwin.

Every 2A team that is eligible to qualify were placed into one big bracket – and the teams battle it out.

“It’s pretty similar to the NCAA basketball tournament,” said sophomore Buddy Paul Martin, “except the fact that the basketball games are more fun to watch.”

Ogden said Baldwin is a “fairly young team, but anybody can beat anybody on any given day. We just got to make them play on our level, not theirs.”

St. Joe would have to advance through three teams in order to reach the semi-finals and finals, all taking place at Parham Bridges Tennis Center from May 2-3.

“It’s exciting, knowing that I have a solid chance to give my school and me another title,” Boland said. “And missing school is pretty awesome, too.”

Bruin baseball team has eyes set on state tourney

L

ast year, the St. Joe Bruins varsity baseball team finished its season breaking even with 13 losses and 13 wins – making the state playoffs for the first time in six years.

This season, aspirations are higher and players are definitely up to the challenge. As we went to press this week, the team’s record stood at 14-7.

If the team can keep up the streak of success, the Bruins likely will return to the playoffs. In the district, the Bruins have a 6-2 record and stand in second place, trailing Ackerman by one game.

Needless to say, things are looking good for the Bruins this year.

“At this point, the playoffs are a real possibility,” Coach Todd Miller said

last week. “Right now, our goal is to win district and take it from there.”

And if the Bruins can win the next three out of four district games, a district championship JACK HALL won’t be too far Sports Editor off.

To be successful, Todd is counting on his seven returning seniors – Brett Burgess, Jack Butts, Dylan Culberson, Alex Cosmich, Spence Howell, Drew

Meyers and Charlie Waddingham – to carry the team with sights set squarely on the playoffs.

“I like our lineup this year,” Todd said. “We’re playing better than last year, especially on the offense side.

We’re maximizing our talent more than we have in previous years, which will help us out a good bit.”

With Coach Todd, progress is everything.

Howell, the shortstop, agreed: “It’s all about love of the sport. We train for this and give it our all – our best.”

Added freshman junior varsity second baseman JoJo Katool: “I love my teammates and look forward to the next years playing for this team.”

“We’re playing better than last year, especially on the offense side. We’re maximizing our talent more than we have in previous years.”

– Coach Miller Todd “The one moment I’ll remember from this season was during a game

against East Webster,” he said. “During the eighth inning after being five runs behind, Pace McDonald put down a squeeze bunt, allowing the runner on third base to score, letting us win the game.”

It’s stunning victories like this that make a team great, on the field and off.

With all this said, the team has a lot of work. Coming off a season like the last is definitely beneficial and will help the team improve this year. – evidenced by the team’s recent win streak.

I hope for the best.

Jack Hall, a freshman, takes over as sports editor for The Bear Facts with this edition.