62nd Year--Vol. 3 Northeast Mississippi Community College--Booneville, Miss. May 6, 2011

Becoming a Northeast student only requires a few simple steps.

A good place for a potential student to start would be by emailing or calling Georgie Carroll, Director of Student Enrollment, Guidance and Counseling. She sets up tours of the campus where they can see the entire campus, dorms, and departments that he or she is interested in. Carroll can be reached at gecarroll@nemcc.edu or (662) 720-7591.

At the tour they will receive a packet that has all the forms that need to be filled out along with Northeast information that will benefit them greatly.

Forms and information can also be found by going to the Northeast website www.nemcc.edu, and clicking on “Students” across the top of the page and then loading the “Admission Packet” under the heading “Admissions.”

The Admission Packet has twenty-eight pages that can be printed and filled out or read including, an Admissions Application,

Housing Application, Scholarship Application, How to fill out FAFSA, List of Requirements for Admissions, List of Tuition and Fees for 2009-2010 and for 2010-2011, Financial Assistance Available, Programs of Study, Distance Learning, Scholarships (Institutional), Mississippi Student Financial Aid on the Web, Student Checklist, Calendar for 2009-2010 and for 2010-2011, Counseling Center Brochure, Placement Testing, Bookstore Information, and Who to See at Northeast.

First, a potential student should fill out and turn in an Admissions Application to Northeast. It can either be mailed or handed in to the Admissions Office. Along with the application or soon after, they should present a transcript (it can be partial), and an ACT score.

Next, they will be conditionally accepted until a final transcript is sent after they graduate if they are still in high school. Once it arrives, they will be fully accepted and invited to Orientation.

Their I.D. number and student email information will be on the first letter they receive. From then on, all paperwork and

contacts made will be sent through the school email. Admissions recommend that potential or current Northeast students join the Admissions page on Facebook so they can keep up with what is going on.

Registration for Orientation can be done online. The link to the form can be found on the list on the right of the homepage.

The first date for Fall 2011 Orientation is June 21 for the following majors: Accounting, Agriculture Science, Agriculture, Architecture, Art, Art Ed, Athletic Training, Biology, Business Administration, Business Ed, Business Information Systems, Chemistry, Commercial Music, Broadcasting, Journalism, Public Relations, Speech Ed, Communicative Disorders, Computer Science, Criminal Justice, Dentistry, Elementary Ed, Engineering, Family & Consumer Sciences, Family & Consumer Sciences Ed, Fashion Merchandising, Geomatics/Surveying, Health Information Management, History, Interior Design, Liberal Arts, Library Science, Mathematics, Mathematics Ed, Medical Technology, Medicine, Modern Foreign Languages, Modern Foreign Languages Ed, Music, Music Ed, Occupational Therapy, Optometry, Pharmacy, Photography, Physical Ed, Physical Therapy, Physics, Political Science, Psychology, Religious Studies, Science Ed, Social Studies Ed, Social Work, Sociology, Special Ed, Theatre, and Veterinary Medicine.

June 23 is the second Orientation date for the majors of: Accounting Technology, Automotive Mechanics & Service Technology, Business & Marketing Management Technology (2yr), Civil Engineering Technology, Collision Repair Technology, Computer Aided Design & Drafting, Construction Engineering Technology, Country/Western Music, Culinary Arts Technology, Dental Hygiene Technology, Diesel Power Technology, Early Childhood Education Technology, Electrical Technology, Diesel Power Technology, Forestry Technology (2yr and 4yr), Healthcare Data Technology,

Heating & Air Conditioning Technology, Hotel & Air Conditioning Technology, Industrial Maintenance Technology, Machine Tool & Die Technology, Medical Assisting Technology, Medical Laboratory Technology, Microcomputer Technology, Nursing (ADN, BSN and LPN), Office Systems Technology, Paralegal Technology, Radiologic (Medical) Technology, and Respiratory Care Technology.

Orientation starts at 9 a.m. and ends around 3:30 p.m. on both days. Lunch will be served in the Union (included in $25 fee you must pay).

There will be an additional orientation in the evening of July 22 for those that are unable to attend an all-day session.

During Orientation, incoming freshmen will meet with their advisor, enter their class schedule, pay tuition, and get Northeast I.D. and parking decals. They must know their tag number and car make and model to get a parking decal.

Paying tuition at Orientation is not mandatory, but tuition must be paid before I.D. and parking decal can be received.

After Orientation registration officially begins for the freshmen who did not register then, it is on the August 8th for Northeast Corinth and New Albany locations from 3:30 to 6:30 p.m.

More information about Orientation including an agenda can be found by going to the “Campus Orientation” Tab in the Counseling Center’s department page. It can be found by clicking the “Counseling Center” link in the “Students” section of the Northeast website.

Joey Williford, Director of Guidance & Counseling at Northeast, can also be contacted for more Orientation information or questions at jewilliford@nemcc.edu or (662) 720-7564.

Once tuition and fees have been paid, any left over money can be transferred to the bookstore to purchase textbooks and supplies.

After completing everything on this list, a new student will be ready for classes which, officially start on August 11.

By Olivia King,Co-Editor

How to become a Northeast student

Northeast’s Student Government Association recently sponsored the campus-wide Who’s Who Election. Sophomores, Ben Ford of Booneville, Music Major and Summer

Smith of New Albany, Liberal Arts major were recently chosen by their peers as Mr. and Ms. Northeast Mississippi Community College for 2011. Ford won the Mr. Northeast run-off election against Tyler Reed of Hickory Flat while Smith and Carly

Wilbanks of New Albany.

Last summer during Freshmen Orientation first-time students were given an opportunity to tour the campus and see what Northeast has to offer.

Northeast Mississippi Community College recently recieved word from the U.S Department of Education that it has authorized the use of the “Year Round Pell” for the summer of 2011.

According the financial aid director Greg Windham, this would mean that if students qualify for a Pell Grant and meet the established requirements, they will be eligible to receive a second Pell award this summer.

Despite this good news, the downside to this all is that, unfortunately due to the program being cut by Congress, “this will be the last award year for students to receive the second award”, Windham explained.

Yet, what needs to be made clear is that this does not affect incoming Freshmen who wish to take summer classes nor does it affect students who did not go to school full time during the fall or spring semesters.

These students will all still be able to use any funds remaining from their first Pell award for the current award year.

Registration for intersession classes at Northeast is currently in progress and will continue until Monday, May 16.

Intersession classes begin May 16 and end Friday, May 27 with final exams scheduled for Tuesday, May 31.

Registration for the first term of summer school classes is Thursday, June 2 and Friday, June 3.

All classes in the Summer I session begin Monday, June 6.

The last day to register for regular

day and evening classes for Summer I is Wednesday, June 8.

The final exam for Summer I day and evening classes is set for Thursday, June 30.

Registration for the second term of summer school day and evening classes is Friday, July 1 with classes beginning Tuesday, July 5.

The college will be closed Monday, July 4 in observance of the Independence Day holiday.

The last day to register for regular day and evening classes for Summer II is Thursday, July 7.

The final exam for Summer II day and evening classes is set for Friday, July 29.

Tuesday, May 31 is the last day to register for Distance Learning (on-line) classes. Those classes begin Wednesday, June 1.

The last day to withdraw from a distance learning class is Wednesday, July 13 by 3 p.m..

Selected day and evening classes will be offered at the Northeast at Corinth and Northeast at New Albany campuses during both summer sessions.

A complete listing of Northeast’s intersession and summer classes can be found of the college’s web site on www.nemcc.edu.

Students may also pick up a 2011 Intersession, Summer and Fall Schedule Booklet at the Office of Admissions in Estes Hall on the Booneville campus.

For more information call the Office of Admissions at 662-720-7239, 1-800-555-2154 or visit the Northeast web site at www.nemcc.edu.

By Sha’ Simpson,Co-Editor

Pell Grant offered in Summer

Opinion2 The Beacon

Northeast Mississippi Community College is accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (1866 Southern Lane, Decatur, Georgia 30033-4097; Telephone number 404-679-4501) to award the Associate in Arts degree,

the Associate in Applied Science degree and certificates.In compliance with Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964; Title IX, Educational Amendments of 1972 of the Higher Education

Act; and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended, the Board of Trustees of Northeast Mississippi Community College hereby adopts a policy assuring that no one shall, on the grounds of race, sex, color, age, creed or national origin be excluded from participation in, be denied the benefits of, or otherwise be subjected to discrimination in any program or activity of the college. Northeast Mississippi Community College adheres to the principle of equal educational and employment opportunity without regard to race, sex, color, age, creed, or national origin. This policy includes the qualified disabled and extends to all programs and activities supported by

the college.

First Amendment: Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to

petition the Government for a redress of grievances.

Left to Right: (back row) Lacey Burcham, Brandy Webb, co-editor Sha’ Simpson, co-editor Olivia King and Brittni Cox. (front row) Debbie Friar, Heather Smith, Felecia Sparks, and Sarah Leathers.

(not pictured) Blake Long and Dustin Roberts.Advisors: (not pictured) Tony Finch and Michael H. Miller.

College Publication Staff

Like many times before, the landscape of the Northeast campus is being radically changed.

With additional buildings being added and new landscapes being constructed, it is quite a sight to behold.

The future of our school is now at the hands of architects and builders, and while it is true the changes are causing adjustments in our driving, walking, and parking routines, those changes should not be viewed as only a disturbance.

First of all, our school had to undergo significant changes to get where it is today.

Changes that, no doubt, were viewed by some as a nuisance to past students.

Initially, the building of the school itself was a major change, yet one that has come to benefit us all in the same critical sense..

Every change since has been to utilize the campus to its full potential, and the

reaction has faded in time, becoming less and less of an ordeal.

Lots of other things have been and will be affected by the construction, like parking spaces, locations of offices, roads and access.

If students always found a way to get past this before, then surely students can now.

Challenges like these typically work themselves out naturally with time.

Before to long that parking space we always used to park in on the Boulevard will be replaced by a new regular space -- a different parking space, but nonetheless, a space.

Changes in our lives, especially in our settings, can disrupt our routines. Changes can distract us, frighten us, and sometimes present themselves as obstacles.

However, the change is necessary, and sometimes refreshing in a sense.

Wary of change as we all are, I think this is one of those times to accept it, rather than reject.

Everyone adjusts to changeBy Lacey Burcham,

Staff Writer

Many students and adults on and off the campus of Northeast often find themselves in a sticky situation regarding quick access to their money.

While Automatic Teller Machines are available almost anywhere one may go, there is not one located on the Northeast campus.

This makes no sense. The Northeast campus is a place where many students, as well as faculty and staff spend the majority of their day.

There was an ATM in the Haney Union several years ago, however it is no longer there.

Many students feel having an ATM on campus would be extremely beneficial to them, however, some feel it could pose problems.

An ATM on campus could be a target of acts of a criminal nature, however there are ways to aid in deterring such deviant behavior.

Where to put the ATM would be the next issue to face.

An ATM built into the wall of a building with adequate coverage by a camera and plenty of lighting around the machine is usually safe from such acts.

A central, public, building such as the Haney Union, or the new T. Jack Ramsey Student Services Building, which will be located at the East end of Cunningham Boulevard that is the center of campus, would both be a suitable place for a ATM.

With the T. Jack Ramsey Student Services Building currently under construction, this would be an ideal location for such a machine.

Since only ground work has been done for the building as of the beginning of May, a modification to the original construction plans can be made to incorporate an ATM without causing a set-back to the construction schedule.

Students could utilize the services of an ATM on campus in many ways.

For one, the cafeteria does not take debit

cards, but they do accept cash. This causes an inconvenience to the students who do not carry even small amounts of cash on them. An ATM located near the cafeteria entrance, either in the Haney Union or the T. Jack Ramsey Student Services Building would not only be beneficial to said students but to Sodexo who runs the cafeteria.

Having easy access to cash allows students who are commuters and do not have a cafeteria meal plan to access meals through the cafeteria. This is also a win for cafeteria administration as it provides extra revenue from meals.

With some four-year universities, banks give special deals and services to students, and there is no reason why those special deals should not extend to Northeast students.

An ATM would also provide a stimulation of the local Booneville economy.

A Northeast ATM could also have an added benefit to the Booneville economy

whereas local banks would have to compete with the Northeast ATM to provide faculty, staff and students with quick access to cash.

If the Northeast ATM were to charge fees it could also stimulate the Northeast accounting system.

If Northeast were to enter into an agreement with a local or regional bank, the college could receive a portion of the fee charged to users with drawing cash from the Northeast ATM.

An ATM would make the campus more attractive to students. With prospective students and parents knowing that they can have quick access to cash, could be a huge advantage when they consider Northeast.

Of course, it would suffice as another way for parents to get money to their children attending Northeast.

However, it might also lead to overspending.

A withdrawal limit could be imposed to deter potential crime, and even possible overspending.

Editorial Cartoonby Myron Johnson

Art Major, Memphis, TN

Staff Editorial

Northeast needs to provide quick access to cash

Students share experiences

“You talk different. You are not from around here, are you?”

I answered, “Yeah, I am not from around here. I am from Ohio.”

They look at me strange and say, “Ohio, what are doing way here from Mississippi?”

This is a question that I get asked all the time.

I am from Ohio and have lived there basically all of my life.

One day, I decided that I wanted a new change in my life and decided that I would move to Mississippi and live with my grandparents and attend Northeast in the spring.

When I moved here I did not know what to expect.

Little did I know, I was about to have a culture shock.

The people in the South drive way

to slow for me. They need to get a little speed behind them.

In Ohio it’s totally different. Everyone moves fast and if you don’t keep up you will get left behind.

Southerners also have a tendency to be friendly to everyone they meet.

They always smiling and talking to everyone that they meet.

Up north people don’t speak to anyone that they don’t know.

When I came to Northeast, I feel in love with the school.

Northeast is a college where you go to study and it’s

whatever you make out of it. Now as I getting ready to transfer

to Mississippi State, I look back at my experiences here at Northeast and I will always be a proud former student of Northeast.

My experience as an older student here at Northeast Mississippi Community College, has been a great one.

When I first came here I was scared. I experienced the same butterflies that a kid might experience when they attend high school for the first time. I did not know how the younger students would react to me, but I was in for a surprise.

It was the younger students that actually befriended me. I never really had that much communication with the older students in my c1asses, which I found to be quite funny.

Being a parent, I decided that when all my children went off to college I would resume my education, and I’m most certainly glad that I did.

When I attended my Mass Communication class I was the oldest student, but despite this the students really took the time to get to know me as an individual.

Because most of them befriended me, I have established friendships with them and have most of them on my

Facebook.The teachers here are kind and

understanding and really helped me to make the academic adjustments that I needed in order to be able to become acclimated to their teaching styles using technology.

It is not easy going to college, when you have been out of school for a while. But right now I am currently a member of the College Publications class, where I am a member of the Beacon staff.

Here at NEMCC it has proved to be an awesome experience, since I am studying journalism to not only be apart of the

newspaper staff but to also be apart of the work-study program, where I assist students in the library. These opportunities have allowed me to widen out and interact with students of all ages.

My goal is to finish at Northeast and continue to study journalism and write for a paper.

When I graduate, I will miss everyone but I will take along with me the memories and friendships that I have established here.

Non-Traditional

Out-of-State Student

Brittni Cox

Debbie Friar

News 3The Beacon

Northeast’s Engineering Technology and Occupational Education Division gave Northeast students a chance to get the leg up on the competition in an ever-competitive job market with a workshop on resume writing and interview skills on March 24.

Petrecia Williams of Senatobia served as speaker for the workshop.

Williams, who was the 2003 winner of the Mississippi Manufacturers Association Educator Award for Excellence in Vocational Education, gave students a perspective into what potential employers are looking for in job candidates.

Students were given four chances to attend the workshop. During the 8 am session, many students came prepared to

gain the knowledge they could in hopes to get a leg up on the employment process.

With the economy slowly recovering and jobs being scarce, students are doing whatever possible to succeed.

Williams said students needed three things, “Energy, desire, and to put their best foot forward.”

When writing a resume, a person’s first objective is to write down their contact information.

Williams suggested that students make sure they have a more professional email address.

“No hotmomma.com, because hot momma doesn’t want a job, hot momma wants to play,” Williams explained.

According to Tech Prep coordinator Tammie Bullard, because of the success of the workshop, Northeast will continue to have this workshop annually.

Workshop offers resume’ writing and interview skillsBy Brandy Webb,

Staff Writer

Booneville Boys and Girls Club (BGCA) in conjunction with Phi Theta Kappa, Kick Butts Day, and Teens against Tobacco Use (TATU), Family First, and the Tobacco Coalition are celebrating Earth Day in honor of all who have passed away due to lung cancer and other smoke related deaths.

According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention each year from 2000-2004 about 443,000 U.S. deaths are attributed to cigarette smoking.

To honor those deaths, a tree was

planted on the March 31st, at the Eastside Park in Booneville.

Northeast’s Forestry Technology donated the tree for the event.

All groups involved hope that the tree planted will not only provide shade and clean air for our future children, but also be a constant reminder for them to live a tobacco free life.

Also, as a reminder the BGCA of Booneville will be closed until further notice due to remodeling of the Community Center.

If anyone has any questions please contact Boys and Girls Club unit director Angelique Jumper at 210-0842.

Groups plant tree at local parkBy Brandy Webb,

Staff Writer

Northeast students have proven that they can hold their own with the best around the state after the Mississippi Community College Creative Writing Association (MCCCWA) announced its winners of the state-wide writing conference.

Northeast had five students place in the state contest with Ed Lucas collecting a pair of awards in the poetry category.

Robin Franks received honorable mention in literary essay for ‘Ulysses.’ Hannah Marie Cooper finished second in the short fiction category for ‘Deadly Beauty’ while Jessie Lynn Cooper picked up an honorable mention for ‘Tagged.’

McKenzie Cruse recorded Northeast second runner-up finish for ‘Untitled’ in non-fiction.

Lucas captured the top price in the poetry category for ‘Let’s Greet Tomorrow’ and also received an honorable mention for ‘Do We Ever Really Say Goodbye.’

Booneville’s Boys and Girls Club of America (BGCA) celebrated Black History Month on Monday, February 28 with a lecture from Northeast English instructor Janis Patterson.

Patterson gave those in attendance a brief look into the many accomplishments that African Americans have made throughout history.

A couple of Patterson’s personas stuck out to those in attendance. T’Kayla Jones was specifically captured by the book by Synthia Saint James entitled, “No Mirrors in My Nana’s House” and Blake Spencer

was enthralled by the story of African American boxer Joe Lewis.

Lewis was the first African American boxer to gain mass fame in the twentieth century and as told by the book.

“What my father did was enable white America to think of him as an American, not as black.” said his son, Joe Lewis, Jr. “By winning; he became white America’s first black hero.”

Booneville Boys and Girls Club member Wesley Rowan said that everyone no matter their age was able to learn something

from Patterson’s lecture. Rowan was interested to learn that America’s first African American library and school was established in 1816 in Wilmington, Del.

Instructor gives Black History Month lectureBy Brandy Webb,

Staff Writer

NORTHEAST ELECTS 2010-11 CLASS FAVORITESDuring recent campus-wide elections at Northeast Mississippi Community College,

sophomores (front row l-r) Ben Ford of Booneville and Summer Smith of New Albany were selected as Mr. and Miss Northeast Mississippi Community College for 2010-

11. Joining Ford and Smith as class favorites for the 2010-11 school year include (second row l-r) Casey Davis, Booneville; Drew Cristo, Booneville; Carly Wilbanks,

New Albany; Tyler Reed, Hickory Flat; (third row l-r) Adam Chism, Guntown; Correl Hoyle, Tiplersville; Seth Bragg, Rienzi; Toby Brandon, Belmont; (fourth row l-r) Katie Bishop, Baldwyn; Molly Hellums, Bruce; Skylar McCrimmon, Kossuth; (fifth row l-r) Shannon Dye, Blue Springs; LaQuinta Jones, New Albany; Ashley Lee, Blue Springs. Also in the class favorites election were (sixth row lr) Blake Littlejohn, Pontotoc;

Taylor Dees, Booneville; (seventh row l-r) Sallie Richardson, Olive Branch; Allison M. Floyd, Booneville; Molly Lambert, Booneville, Liz Davis, Ripley; (eight row l-r) Chase Wilkerson, Booneville; Drew Dodds, New Albany; Tucker Holmes, New Albany; Kyle Stephenson, Booneville; (ninth row l-r) Sawyer Wheatley, New Albany; Kelsie Follin,

Kossuth; Hannah Hastings, Booneville and Hunter Maness, Booneville.

Sample Challenging Interview Questions

Janis Patterson

Northeast Sophomore Blake Long from Iuka, won the annual College Public Relations Association of Mississippi (CPRAM) $500 Scholarship.

Long heard about the scholarship from Northeast Public Information employee, Michael H. Miller and immediately started working on it.

There was an application on www.cpram.org Long filled out and wrote a 500 word essay called “What I Hope To Offer The Field of Communication,” that he submitted by the beginning of February.

Applicants’ majors had to be in: communications, advertising, mass communications, political communications, crisis management, graphic design or other communication majors.

Long is a Communications major at Northeast, but will be a journalism major when he attends Ole Miss.

Applicants also had to be enrolled or enrolling as a full-time student at a two or four-year Mississippi college.

CPRAM also looked at students’ public relations extracurricular activities, organizations, and employment along with their other financial aid.

Long is a Sports Writer on the Beacon at Northeast, he writes for the Northeast Mississippi Daily Journal in Tupelo and has written for the Daily Corinthian in Corinth.

Long also had to send three letters of recommendation with his application from people associated with the college or active CPRAM members.

He had his speech instructor, advisor and communications instructor write letters for him.

Two $500 scholarships were awarded to be used in Fall 2011 and Long was the lucky recipient of one of them.

After submitting his application, Long waited a month before he heard through Twitter and a phone confirmation that he had won.

Long said he did not believe it was real when it was first put on Twitter, but after the phone call he was certain it was.

Winners will be awarded during the annual conference in May.

Long’s plans for the money are for living expenses and book costs.

This is the first time a Northeast student has won this particular scholarship.

“It’s really an honor to represent Northeast with this scholarship. Hopefully, I won’t let Northeast and the association down with my future endeavors,” Long said.

Communications student wins CPRAM scholarship

By Olivia King,Co-Editor

“It’s really an honor to represent Northeast with this

scholarship. Hopefully, I won’t let Northeast and the association down with my

future endeavors.”

Blake LongScholarship Recipient

Writers place in state competition

Petrecia Williams gave Northeast students a varied of tips for resume’ writing and interview skills. Some of Williams’ tips included being prepared for an interview by knowing some of the challenging interview questions that companies have asked to potential employees before. Some of Williams’ challenging interview questions are below:

Describe your ideal job.

Where do you see yourself in 5 years? In 10 years?

Name three adjectives that best describe you and why.

Give an example of a time you worked under pressure.

What skills do you feel are necessary for this position?

Describe a difficult time you had with a supervisor and how you handled it.

By Sarah Leathers,Staff Writer

Campus4 The Beacon

There are many scholarship opportunities for Northeast students, however many of them do not realize that one of them is made available through the ROTC program.

ROTC stands for Reserve Officer Training Corps. Its purpose is to train students who plan to go into the military after graduation while they attend classes at Northeast, but that‘s not all. The program puts the students’ education first. Before a student can even begin the program, he or she must have an undergraduate degree.

The military is currently producing five thousand second lieutenants every year. A huge percent of them come from ROTC programs like the one on campus.

Some of the classes that are required for a student in the program include Leadership Development, Military Skills,

and Adventure Training. This helps to develop as strong, independent soldier and member of society.

In addition to the beneficial courses the ROTC program also offers scholarships. They offer full tuition to residents and non-residents, monthly stipends which are $300 for freshmen, $350 for sophomores, $450 for juniors, and $500 for seniors. These scholarships are a huge help to students of small town families who would otherwise struggle to provide their kids with a quality education.

This program is a very important aspect of the college. The University of Mississippi Army ROTC program has over 128 cadets and they commission 25 second lieutenants every year. Not only will this program help to mold students into outstanding citizens, it will provide them with opportunities that would otherwise be unattainable. They provide an education that will be with them forever.

ROTC at NE: What it does for studentsBy Heather Smith,

Staff Writer

Members of the Northeast ROTC show their support at the Northwest football pep rally during the 2010 football season.

Northeast’s Hospitality Management Chapter of the international DECA society attended and competed in the International Conference held in Orlando, Fla., and came away with a variety of awards including Mississippi Advisor of the Year and a third-place finish in the Restaurant and Food Services Management division.

Apryl Stafford of Booneville placed third in the Restaurant and Food Services Management division at the international competition and also placed on the Hospitality and Tourism Test that was administered at the international event.

Northeast Hospitality Management Chapter advisor Tim Gilmore was also honored at the international competition as Mississippi Advisor of the Year.

Northeast was also honored at the international competition for its Passport Diplomat Leadership, its community service and for its chapter leadership that was led by Lanelle Young of Tishomingo and Stafford.

Northeast students also placed at the state-wide conference in Natchez with Arrate Madrid placing second in Travel and Tourism and five third place showings

including Brandon Diaz, Jennie Smithey and Madrid in Culinary Arts Team, David Gurley and Robert Dylan Kohl in Website Design, Amber Patterson in Financial Services, Kohl in Sales Management and Stafford in Restaurant and Food Services

Marketing Management. Northeast’s culinary arts team of Tonya

Bell, Will Stubbs and Young placed fifth in their respective category while Northeast had a pair of students elected State Vice Presidents -- Madrid and Kohl.

Collegiate DECA places at international competition

By Sarah Leathers,Staff Writer

Northeast Mississippi Community College students all have a story. Each person has personal reasons for why they are attending college, and how they got here. One of those students is Alan (A.J.) Stubbs.

Alan has been in Booneville his entire life, and has always known that he wants great success for himself. At a young age he had the typical boyhood dream of becoming a sports star. Alan remembers his uncle, who is a baseball coach, taking him to games. His uncle was a great influence on him.

At Booneville High School he played football, but once he started to get older those dreams didn’t come into reality, he did not let that stop him though.

When he started college at NEMCC he realized his second love, broadcasting. That is what his major became.

Staying in church and reading the Bible has also helped him in achieving his goals. Stubbs has recently been accepted into Mississippi State University and will transfer their in the fall.

NEMCC has been a great stepping stone for him and his future success. He has a lot of gratitude for the teachers of Northeast. They have prepared him well for his next steps to getting a degree in Broadcasting.

It is only onward and upward for Mr. Stubbs and other students of Northeast who choose to stay positive and pursue their life goals. As Mr. Stubbs says “it’s only sky high from here.”

Student Spotlight

By Brandy Webb,Staff Writer

Northeast Mississippi Junior College alumnus and retired Mississippi National Guard Brigadier General Leon Collins of Booneville addressed the college’s seventh annual Honors Day Program inside the Bonner Arnold Coliseum on the Northeast campus on Thursday, April 28.

Collins, who received his Associates of Arts Degree from Northeast Mississippi Junior College, serves as the Special Assistant to the President and CEO of MINACT, Inc.

Collins joined MINACT Inc., in July 2010 as the Special Assistant to the President and CEO. In this role he provides advice and assistance as the corporation manages and operates its eleven Job Corps Centers, which are located in nine states. Collins also has corporate responsibility and oversight for the inventory control and material-handling contract the company has with Nissan North America in Canton and their Culinary Learning Center, in Biloxi.

Prior to joining MINACT, Collins was nominated by Governor Haley Barbour to serve as one of the three commissioners for the Mississippi Workers’ Compensation Commission on August 15, 2007.

Before to his appointment to the Workers’ Compensation Commission, Collins spent over 30 years in the U. S. Army and the Mississippi Army National Guard, culminating as the Director of Mobilization at U.S. Army Forces Command, Fort McPherson, Ga. Prior to that assignment, he commanded the 155th Brigade Combat Team from Mississippi and mobilized the brigade to the Iraqi Theater of Operation in 2005. That mobilization marked the largest mobilization of a Mississippi military force since World War II. While in Iraq, Collins was promoted to the rank of Brigadier

General, making the Booneville native the first African American to achieve the rank of General Officer in the history of the Mississippi National Guard.

Collins retired from the United States Army on October 31, 2007 where he served in command and staff positions with the Mississippi National Guard and the Active Army at all levels from company to Major Army Command including his final assignment as Director of Mobilization at United States Army Forces Command, Fort McPherson, Ga.

Prior to his assignment at Forces Command, Collins commanded the 155th Brigade Combat Team of the Mississippi National Guard. During his tenure as commander, the brigade mobilized and deployed to the Iraqi Theater of Operations. The mobilization marked the largest unit mobilization in the State of Mississippi since World War II. Under his leadership, the unit achieved noted success combating radical insurgents while stationed in the hostile area of Iraq known as the “Triangle of Death”.

While in Iraq, Collins commanded a force of more than 4,500 service members that included soldiers, sailors, airmen and Marines. Collins and his troops were responsible for security operations in north Babil, Karbala, eastern Al Anbar and the Najaf provinces. Their actions resulted in the capture of over 1,500 terrorists, seizure of more than 28,000 weapons and confiscation of over 18,000 pounds of munitions.

Collins was promoted to brigadier general while in Iraq, making him the first African American to attain the rank of general officer in the history of the Mississippi National Guard.

A few of Collins military awards

and decorations include the Legion of Merit, the Meritorious Service Medal, the Army Commendation Medal, the Army Achievement Medal, the Military Outstanding Volunteer Service Medal, the Mississippi Magnolia Cross and the Order of Saint George Medallion for excellence in Armor.

Collins currently serves on the Board of Directors of Friends of Mississippi Veterans, the Mississippi Commission on Judicial Performance and on the Deacon Board at New Hope Baptist Church in Jackson.

After receiving his Associates of Arts Degree from Northeast Mississippi Junior College, Collins earned a Bachelor of Business Administration Degree from the University of Mississippi, a Master of Business Administration Degree from Jackson State University and a Master of Strategic Studies Degree from the United States Army War College, Carlisle, Pa.

Collins speaks at annual honors day ceremony

Leon Collins

Northeast’s Hospitality Management Chapter of DECA recently competed in the international competition in Orlando, Fla., and brought back many awards including (left) Tim Gilmore as the Mississippi Advisor of the Year and (right) Apryl Stafford of

Booneville with a third place showing in Restaurant and Food Services Management.

As the 2011 spring semester comes to a close, Northeast officials are reminding students, faculty and staff to be ever vigilant to the rising threat of thefts.

Although everyone should be on alert, the students most at risk are those with backpacks, purses, and particularly those who tend to leave textbooks lying out in the open.

“Theft (especially textbooks) and vandalism tends to pick up on college campuses as we close out the end of the school year,” said Northeast Dean of Students Ricky Ford.

Thefts seem to be occurring mainly between classes when books are often left unattended. Students are warned not to leave their vehicles unlocked and not to leave books, backpacks, and other personal items in unsecured areas.

It is believed that the recent increase in book theft is due to people trying to return other student’s textbooks for monetary gain.

In light of these recent events, please take extra caution with personal items and report any questionable activity to campus security.

By Heather Smith,Staff Writer

Officials warn of rising theft threat

Campus 5The Beacon

While many Northeast students may have a need to view their transcripts, averages, or Federal Aid information, what they may not be aware of is Tigerline, or exactly how to utilize this helpful site.

Tigerline is our campus website that holds each student’s personal information regarding their college education. It is a secure site and can be accessed through the NEMCC website homepage.

Click on Tigerline at the bottom of the page, and then select ‘enter secure area’ to log in.

Logging in to Tigerline is easy. All you need is your nine digit Northeast generated I.D. number and your password, or PIN, which was included in your acceptance

letter from Northeast. If you do not know or have forgotten your PIN then you can visit the admissions office and obtain it.

After logging on to Tigerline a security question can be set. The site will then go on to a main menu. The main menu gives the option of selecting Personal Information, Student Services, site map, accessibility, or help.

The Personal Information option will lead to view addresses, phone numbers, e-mail addresses, and emergency contacts. From this page the PIN can also be changed to anything you choose, which is recommended.

A Student Services option will lead to information on admissions, registration, students records, financial aid, and student enrollment verification.

Admissions page contains application

information and access. Registration includes help, scheduling and schedule details, adding classes, withdrawal information, registration status, and other helpful tools for registering. The students records page contains information like holds, midterm and final grades, academic transcripts, account summaries, tax information and notification, CAPP degree evaluation, student information, and many other scholarly records. Financial aid will let you view your financial aid status and eligibility.

To log out click the Exit option at the top of the page.

Using the site is simple and very valuable, and while many are currently unaware of this useful tool it is something that Northeast students would benefit to learn more about.

By Lacey Burcham,Staff Writer

Tigerline offers many unknown features

Northeast students captured several awards during the 2011 Mississippi Community/Junior College Art Instructor’s Association’s (MCJCAIA) state competition held on the Northeast campus.

Kelsey Smith and Alan Boyer led the way for Northeast art students by capturing a pair of awards apiece.

Smith and Boyer both placed runner-up in their respective categories and also received an honorable mention in another art category.

Boyer earned second place in

the graphic design category for his ‘3 Doors Down CD Cover’ and received honorable mention in the drawing section with ‘Tying the Knot.’

Smith won second place in the 3-D design and sculpture category with ‘Age of Aquarius’ and received honorable mention for her photograph ‘Miss Gulch Returns.’

Jose Gonzalez won second place in the drawing category for his “Emma Watson Portrait”.

While Taylor Moore won third place in the photography category for her photo entitled, ‘Rustic.’

Students Take Home Multiple Art AwardsBy Heather Smith,

Staff Writer

Northeast chemistry instructor Nathan Crawford has created a series of websites to help students who might be struggling with chemistry.

Crawford created three websites that are free and open to the public.

Crawford’s first website is angled at Chemistry I students and can be found at https://sites.google.com/site/doccrawfordschem1page/

The second has Chemistry pencasts, and it is located at https://sites.google.com/site/doccrawfordschemistrypencasts/.

According to the site, “A pencast utilizes a special piece of technology, called a Pulse Pen, to create handwritten examples that are linked to audio.”

This site helps with basic chemistry problems.

h t t p s : / / s i t e s . g o o g l e . c o m / s i t e /doccrawfordsmindmaps/ is the third website and it contains the mind maps used in his and most other Chemistry classes.

Crawford, who has a vested interest in seeing students succeed, has also created a Facebook group, open to everyone, for “those interested in supporting equitable community college funding.”

The link to the community college funding group on the social media site Facebook is http://www.facebook.com/home.php?#!/group.php?gid=118614554819573.

Crawford urges students, parents, or anyone who knows someone struggling in chemistry to refer them to these sites.

Doc Crawford offers online help with

chemistryBy Olivia King,

Co-Editor

Because of the recent earthquake and tsunami in Japan, Northeast’s Phi Theta Kappa chapter of the Iota Zeta honor society has joined the American Red Cross, in efforts to raise money to help the relief efforts.

To show their support Phi Theta Kappa has joined the challenge to donate $1,000.

Phi Theta Kappa members were in the Union lobby on Thursday, March 31. Tuesday, April 5, and Thursday, April 7 soliciting donations for the Red Cross.

Each member of Phi Theta Kappa will also be doing their part by donating $30 to the efforts.

They also plan to use other fund raising tools to meet their challenge and raise the money. Dr. Ray Harris has no doubts that they will succeed in their efforts.

By Brandy Webb,Staff Writer

Phi Theta Kappa Helps Support American Red Cross

College Completion Day

Northeast’s Phi Theta Kappa chapter of the Iota Zeta honor society held an event in conjunction with the Phi Theta Kappa International project for college completion in response to U.S. President Barack Obama’s challenge to produce eight million more college graduates by 2020. During the college

completion day, the local Phi Theta Kappa took the time to raise funds for the American Red Cross by hosting a dunking booth and a mechanical

bull ride. In total, the local Phi Theta Kappa surpassed its goal of $1,000 by raising over $3,000 for the American Red Cross.

Sports6 The Beacon

Northeast baseball took their hopes of a Mississippi Association of Community/Junior Colleges (MACJC) state playoff berth down to the wire but came up on the short end of a sweep at East Mississippi on Saturday, April 30.

Northeast finished 12-12 in the MACJC North Division but the season-ending sweep bumped the Tigers from the MACJC State Tournament as East Mississippi claimed the fourth and final playoff spot from the North with a 14-10 division record. Going into the Saturday series, Northeast had to sweep the Saturday doubleheader after going 3-1 over its previous four division games including a split with co-division champion Northwest.

The top four teams from both divisions advance to the state playoffs which began with a best-of-three series May 5.

Northeast finished the season at 22-20 and were chasing the elusive playoff spot and had a chance until the final day of the regular season.

Most notably for the Tigers is their season split with rival Itawamba Community College. In doubleheaders in

both Fulton and Booneville, the Indians won game one while the Tigers rebounded to take game two of the series.

It is the first time in Itawamba coach Rick Collier’s career that Northeast has beaten him twice in a season.

Northeast also claimed a season split with division leading Holmes and a 3-1 series victory over Mississippi Delta Community College.

Holmes won the North Division on a tiebreaker with Northwest after both teams finished league play at 18-6. Itawamba with its two losses to Northeast finished third in the league at 15-9 while East Mississippi claimed the fourth spot with a 14-10 mark. Northeast finished the league at .500 (12-12) while Mississippi Delta and Coahoma held 6-18 and 1-23 marks in the North Division.

After the best-of-three first round series, the MACJC State Tournament will be held at the highest remaining south division seed on May 12-14.

The following week, the National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA) Region 23 Tournament will be held at the highest remaining North Division seed May 19-21 with a trip to the NJCAA Division II World Series on the line.

Tigers fall short of playoff berthBy Blake Long

Staff Writer

Former Northeast Mississippi Community College women’s basketball coach Ricky Ford left his “built Ford tough” mark on many Lady Tiger teams since coming to Northeast in 1981.

However, the 2010-11 season turned into his victory lap through the Mississippi Association of Community and Junior Colleges (MACJC).

On March 7, 2011 Ford announced he was stepping down as women’s basketball coach at Northeast.

“It has been a wonderful ride for the last thirty four (34) years being able to work with some of the most outstanding young ladies in the world,” Ford said. “It has always been my goal to develop in young people the tremendous work ethic that will be required to be successful in the adult world when they graduate and go to work.”

Ford ended his career at Northeast with an overall record of 588-226.

While wins have not been on the coach’s mind, the satisfaction of a job well done kept Ford going at Northeast for 30 seasons.

“It is always a pleasure to have young ladies come back or call me to tell me they appreciate the fact that I would not accept any kind of mediocrity from them and that enabled them to achieve far beyond what they thought they could have,” Ford said.

Building success on and off the court was what Ford did since coming to Northeast Mississippi Junior College in 1981.

During his 30-year coaching career, Ford only had four sub-.500 seasons and the first of those did not come until his 2002-03 Lady Tigers finished 11-12 but even it finished as the North Division runner-up.

“When I came to NEMCC in 1981 as women’s basketball coach it was my goal that when NEMCC was mentioned that the first thing that people would think of was the women’s basketball program and I think we accomplished that,” Ford said.

Ford credits his passion for Northeast and women’s basketball as being the reason the veteran coach was able to stay as long as he did.

“My passion for NEMCC and the women’s basketball program is far beyond that of the ordinary person and that has allowed my longevity here to be very positive experience,” Ford said.

Ford’s passion for the game has allowed the coach to enjoy success over three decades at Northeast.

Within five years since taking over the Lady Tiger

program in 1981, Ford had transformed the Lady Tigers into national title contenders that included a national runner-up finish in 1986 and a national championship in 1987.

During Ford’s illustrious career, the Lady Tiger basketball coach led his team to 15 North Division titles, nine MACJC State Championships with 6 (six) of those state championships being consecutive and three Region XXIII crowns while leading the Lady Tigers to the National Junior College Athletic Association’s (NJCAA) national basketball tournament on three separate occasions.

Ford went to the national tournament a final time in 2005-06 as the Lady Tigers captured the North Division, MACJC State and Region XXIII titles and finished the season as the nation’s No. 21-ranked team after appearing in the national event in Salina, Kan.

Following his final national tournament appearance, Ford was honored as the Division I, District O, Region XXIII Coach of the Year - an award that is given to the head coach of each of the 16 regional championship teams.

One year after his national tournament appearance, Ford continued his success in theMACJC as the veteran mentor led the Lady tigers back to the Region XXIII tournament for a twenty-fifth straight year as the Lady Tigers once again captured the North Division - their fourth straight division title - and successfully defended their 2006 MACJC State Title.

Ford may be hanging up his coaching whistle but the veteran coach still has plans to carry that same passion he showed on the basketball court into the academic life.

“Even though I am stepping down from the coaching aspect, I still have a tremendous passion for Northeast Mississippi Community College,” Ford said. “This same passion will be carried over as the Dean of Student Services and Athletic Director.”

Ford was appointed Dean of Student Services at the beginning of the 2011 spring semester following the retirement of Kenneth Pounders, and is currently in his sixth year as athletic director for the college.

“Ricky Ford will bring to the Dean’s Office the same passion for the college and for excellence that has served him so well as Coach,” Allen said of his colleague. “His love for students and the desire to help them to be better persons are two of the essential traits that made Dean Ford the obvious choice for this promotion.”

His responsibilities as athletic director has Ford overseeing the day-to-day operations of an athletic

department that features eight varsity sports, an all-female cheerleading squad and also coordinates the annual MACJC All-Star Football Classic game that is held each year in December.

Prior to coming to Northeast, Ford built successful basketball programs at Booneville High School coaching the Lady Blue Devils for four years and the Blue Devils for a pair of seasons.

Ford’s overall careen record stands at 676-253 and carries a winning percentage of 72.7 percent into retirement.

An alumnus of Northeast and former Tiger basketball player under Kenneth Lindsey, Ford earned a bachelor’s degree from Mississippi State University and a master’s degree from the University of Mississippi.

Ricky and his wife LuAnne have four children, Aaron, Lauren, Suzanne, and Ben.

Ford steps down as women’s basketball coach

Ricky Ford led the Northeast Lady Tiger basketball team to a national title in 1987, a national runner-

up finish, 15 North Division titles, nine MACJC State Championship -- including six straight and three Region XXIII titles. At the end of his 30 year career Ford capped

his overall record at 588-226.

Northeast Mississippi Community College sophomore golfer Austin Holt of New Albany made the most of his appearance in the National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA) Region XXIII golf championship at Riverbirch Golf Club in Amory.

Holt, who was Northeast’s only entrant into the region event, overcame a blustery second day to fire a one-under par, 71 for a two-day 149 to finish tied for secondoverall with Copiah-Lincoln Community College’s Bennett Ruschewski and Keaton Stamps, who finished with second day 76s.

Holt, who was just one of three sophomores on the Tiger golf team, knocked seven strokes off his opening day 78 to qualify for NJCAA Division II

National Golf Championship to be held at Goose Pond Colony Golf Course in Scottsboro, Ala., on May 17-20.

Along with Region XXIII champ Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College, the top five golfers that are not associated with the region champion qualified to compete in the national event.

Holt had been one of Northeast’s most consistent golfers all season compiling an 80.25 scoring average for the Tigers.

Holt’s 80.25 average ties the Northeast sophomore with Rob Waddell of Kalamazoo Valley Community College in Michigan in the nation.

Trey Mattox (Booneville) led the Tigers during the season with a 79.167 average while Holt was just over a stroke behind

with his 80.25 – good enough to be in the Top 150 golfers in the country.

Holt also keeps Northeast’s streak alive of appearing in the national tournament.

In 2010, a pair of Tiger linksters – Blake Hatfield (Booneville) and Brandon Robbins (Corinth) – qualified for the national event while Hatfield made a solo appearance in Northeast’s first year back in Division II competition in 2009.

During the 2007 and 2008 season, Northeast went undefeated through the Mississippi Association of Community/Junior Colleges (MACJC) Division III ranks and captured the Region XXIII crown and appeared in the NJCAA Division III National Golf Championship in Jamestown, NY.

Northeast second baseman Drew Cristo (6) tries to turn a double play against Itawamba in Fulton during the first game of the Tigers and Indians doubleheader on

Saturday, March 19. Itawamba and Northeast split the March 19 doubleheader as well as the North Division twinbill in Booneville on April 13.

Tiger linkster qualifies for national tournament

Austin Holt

Sports 7The Beacon

The Mississippi Association of Community and Junior Colleges (MACJC) State Softball Playoffs just isn’t the same without the Northeast Mississippi Community College Tigers.

After a one year hiatus from postseason play, Coach Jody Long has the 2011 Tigers qualified for the MACJC State Tournament as the regular season draws to a conclusion.

With just four regular season games left at home against Bevill State Community College at Sumiton (AL) and at Coahoma Community College, Northeast has amassed a 25-22 overall record.Most importantly, however, the Tigers placed a 12-10 mark in the MACJC North Division.

Northeast is the number four seed in the State Tournament from the North, which matches them up with the South’s top seed and host of the State Tournament, Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College.

“I told our kids this is right where we want to be,” Long said, “A number of things could happen, including Gulf Coast

overlooking us for East Central, who beat (MGCCC) 8-0 last week.”

Itawamba Community College and East Mississippi Community College played Friday, April 22 to determine who would be the top two seeds from the North Division. Northwest Mississippi Community College needed one win against Mississippi Delta Community College to lock up the three seed.

In the South Division, Mississippi Gulf Coast, ranked 10th in the nation by the National Junior College Athletic Association, won the division and the right to host the State Tournament April 28-30.

Jones County Junior College, ranked 17th, and East Central Community College are in a tight race for 2nd and 3rd while Copiah-Lincoln Community College and Pearl River Community College fight for the four seed.

After the State Tournament, Northeast could possibly advance to the NJCAA Region 23 Tournament May 5-7 at Clinton’s Traceway Park.The top two finishers of the Region 23 Tournament advance to the NJCAA Division II World Series in Normal, Illinois.

Northeast softball back in state playoffsBy Blake Long

Staff Writer

Fifteen years after being selected as Mr. Northeast Mississippi Community College, Brian Alexander returns to his roots.

Alexander, who was born in Booneville and raised in New Albany, was named the head women’s basketball coach at Northeast on Wednesday, April 20 in a ceremony held in the Frank Haney Union on the Booneville campus.

Alexander, 34, replaces current Northeast athletic director and dean of student services Ricky Ford who held the position for 30 years.

“We were not looking for someone to replace, me but we were looking for someone that could take this program and lead it without any reservations what so ever,” Ford said. “Brian Alexander will take this challenge and do very well with it.”

Alexander already knows his way around the Booneville campus after spending two years as a student assistant/manager on Mike Lewis’ Tiger basketball team that advanced to the National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA) National Basketball Tournament in Hutchinson, Kan., in 1995-96.

“Coach Ford led the women’s basketball program at Northeast with integrity, complete commitment and a tireless work ethic for over 30 years,” Northeast president Dr. Johnny L. Allen said. “When I promoted Coach Ford to dean of students services, I knew we would be looking for a new coach with those same qualities. We are confident we have that in Brian Alexander.

“Brian is an outstanding young man,” Allen continued. “He has served other teams well throughout his career. We are proud to have him back at Northeast.”

Since leaving Northeast, Alexander has spent only two years not on the collegiate or professional level.

Alexander marked the 1996-97 and 1997-98 seasons at Columbus High School in helping to lead the Falcons to the Mississippi High School Activities Association (MHSAA) North Half Tournament in 1998.

Following his stint at Columbus High School, Alexander spent seasons at the University of Southern Mississippi (1998-2001), Southeastern Louisiana University (2001-03) and Campbell University (2003-06) before returning to the area as a member of the men and women’s coaching staff at Itawamba Community College in Fulton from 2006-09.

On April 23, 2009, Alexander left the collegiate ranks to become a professional basketball coach as the head coach of the Tupelo Rock-N-Roller basketball organization in the World Basketball Exposure Association leading the

Rock-N-Rollers to a finalist appearance in the WBEA.During his coaching experience, Alexander helped

lead teams to 14 championships including postseason appearances in the National Collegiate Athletic Association’s (NCAA) National Invitational Tournament with the University of Southern Mississippi Golden Eagles in 2001 and NJCAA National Tournament appearances with Northeast in 1995 and Itawamba in 2007 and 2008.

In addition to his associate of arts from Northeast, Alexander holds a Bachelor’s of Science in Physical Education from Mississippi State University, a Master’s of Science in Human Performance and a Specialist in

Education in Secondary Education from the University of Southern Mississippi and recently attained his doctorate degree from Mississippi State University in Community College Leadership.

“We were looking for someone that could not only coach but also teach in the classroom,” Ford said. “Brian brings the entire package that will fit into what we want here at NEMCC.”

Alexander is married to the former Cassie James of Ripley, also a Northeast alumnae, and the couple have two children a five-year-old daughter Kinsley, a three-year-old son Colson and are expecting another son in May.

Alexander replaces Ford as women’s basketball coach

Northeast Mississippi Community College head women’s basketball coach Brian Alexander (center) talks with Northeast head men’s basketball coach David Robbins (left) and Northeast dean of student services/athletic

director and former women’s basketball coach Ricky Ford (right) after Alexander was named the Lady Tigers’ head coach on Wednesday, April 20.

Northeast third baseman Raleigh Downs flips a throw to first during Lady Tiger action at Booneville City Park.

Northeast’s men and women tennis teams’ season may have ended at the Mississippi Association of Community/Junior Colleges (MACJC) State Tournament but it was a different kind of whirlwind that caused the players more concern as the Tiger and Lady Tiger tennis teams found themselves starring into an EF-3 tornado while competing in Clinton.

While not on the courts, Northeast’s tennis team found cover in the team’s hotel at the Holiday Inn Express in Clinton and felt the wrath of the EF-3 as the hotel had the external doors ripped from the hinges due to the wind from the tornado.

According to men team captain

Ben Ford, “the matches were delayed and Thursday’s rounds in the doubles semifinals were resumed later.”

Northeast’s team narrowly avoided disaster as the EF-3 tornado set its sights on Clinton on April 15 causing major damage at Mississippi College.

This large storm caused severe damage as trees were uprooted, power lines toppled causing power outage and injured 10 people in the Clinton area as the tornado touched down inside the city limits causing damage to homes and buildings.

While Mother Nature served the tennis team a memory few would undoubtably forget, Northeast scored an ace as each member of the team arrived safely back in Booneville following the state tournament.

Tennis ends season in whirlwind at state

By Heather Smith,Staff Writer

Northeast recently selected cheerleaders for the 2011-12 school year and the squad includes (front row) Nick Thweatt, Jackson, Tenn.; (second row l-r) Emily Fleming, Booneville; Alyssa Moon, Tuscumbia, Ala., Becky Burk, Pontotoc, Chelsea Stacks, Saltillo; (back row l-r) Robbin Hamilton, Columbus, McKenzie Smith, Vardaman,

Lindsey Green, Olive Branch, Casey Davis, Booneville, Aerial Armstrong, Blue Springs, and Rebecca Collier, Ackerman.

Leisure8 The Beacon

One of the most anticipated award shows of the year was hosted April 3, 2011 and as usual it was a huge hit.

This year the 2011 Academy of Country Music Awards was hosted in Las Vegas, Nevada.

Its celebrity hosts this year were Blake Shelton and the country music legend Reba McEntire.

As the show aired, the anxious stars poured into the MGM Grand Garden Arena hoping to take home the top honors of the evening. One of the main performances of the night was a duo between Carrie Underwood and rock-and-roll legend Steven Tyler. The two performed Carrie’s hit, “Undo It” and Steven’s famous song, “Walk This Way”.

Now back to the artists. The winners this year worked hard and they certainly deserve recognition. This year the Entertainer of the Year was taken home by Taylor Swift. Top Male Vocalist of the Year was Brad Paisley. The Top Female Vocalist of the Year was fiance` of host

Blake Shelton, Miranda Lambert. Top Vocal Duo of the Year was one of my personal favorites, Sugarland. This years Top Vocal Group of the Year was none other than Lady Antebellum. Eric Church took home the Top New Solo Vocalist of the Year Award. The Band Perry came out with Top New Vocal Duo or Group of the Year. The Top New Artist Award was given to The Band Perry.

This years Album of the Year was Need You Now, by Lady Antebellum. “The House That Built Me,” by Miranda Lambert received the Single Record of the Year Award. Miranda also took home Song of the Year, also for “The House That Built Me”. This popular song gained yet another major award for Video of the Year. Last but not least, Vocal Event of the Year was “As She’s Walking Away,” by Zac Brown Band featuring Alan Jackson.

Full of new, young, rising stars such as The Band Perry, and music legends such as Reba McEntire, the 2011 ACM Awards was something to be remembered. With so much talent in the business today these awards prove that hard work and belief in one’s dreams really can make a difference.

2011 Academy of Country Music Awards: winners and performances

By Heather Smith,Staff Writer

As a new season rears its head in the world of fishermen the dedicated captains and their loyal crews of the Deadliest Catch fleet prepare for the turmoil ahead.

This season many of our favorite captains are returning to the sea. For the Cornelia Marie recently hired Captain Derrick Ray will be leading his crew that includes deckhands Josh and Jake Harris, deckhand Freddy Maugatai, engineer Steve Ward, and greenhorn Ryan Simpson.

On the Northwestern, Captain Sig Hansen will battle the violent seas with his brother Edgar Hansen who serves as deckboss/engineer.

Norman Hansen will serve as a deckhand and the back up engineer. He will also have deckhands Nick Mavar, Jr., Matt Bradley, Mark Peterson, and junior deckhand Jake Anderson.

The fleet’s returning leader, the

Time Bandit, will be lead by co-captains Johnathan and Andy Hillstrand. Johnathan’s son Scott is also a deckhand.

Along with Scott the Time Bandit has three other deckhands, Eddie Uwekoolani, Mike Fourtner, and Justin Tennison.

One of the two new ships in the fleet this season is the Seabrook, captained by Scott Campbell. It has two relief captains, Bob Perkey and Mike Bouray.

Mac White and Derrick Haist will be the deckhands along side greenhorn deckhand Chris Welch.

Another new ship is the Ramblin’ Rose led by Captain Elliott Neese. Kevin Davis will be the deck boss, while Faresa Laulualo, Tim Lovins, and James Creel will the the deckhands.

One of the returning ships will be the Wizard, captained by Keith Colburn and his younger brother Monte. Gary Soper will be the first mate.

Their engineer is Lenny Lekanoff. Lynn Guitard and Crosby Leveen will serve as

the deckhands while Paul Edgren will start the season as a greenhorn.

On the Kodiak Wild Bill Wichrowski will be the captain. His engineer will be Adam McCalden. Tony Castillo, Jake Jolibois, and Eric Anderson will serve as deckhands and joining them will be greenhorn Zach Larson.

This popular show will air its new season on April 12 at 9pm on the Discovery Channel. The show follows seven crab boats in the Bering Sea. They do not call it “Deadliest Catch” for nothing.

As always there will be challenges that each crew will face that will test them as a team and as men. One of the most common challenges they will face is the weather. Storms on the Bering Sea bring turbulent winds and the freezing temperatures test the body and mind of each deckhand.

This season will most strongly affect Josh and Jake Harris, the two sons of the late Captain Phil Harris.

As a new season begins we all wonder

how will Josh and Jake Harris cope with life without their father. Captain Phil Harris was the captain of the Cornelia Marie and a fan favorite on the show. He worked in the fishing industry for thirty-two years of his life. Phil was known as a fighter, who never gave up in the face of adversity.

Now his legacy falls in the hands of his two sons who he taught to be responsible, hardworking men. Phil was always telling them that if they wanted to succeed on a crab boat they had to earn it.

With the lessons of their father in their hearts it is up to Josh and Jake to uphold the family legacy. As Captain Harris once said, “You want to be top dog? You earn it!”

With new boats and new crew members coming to the show this season of Deadliest Catch will be one of the most anticipated seasons yet. It will be up to the captains and their crews to determine who will come out on top of one of the deadliest jobs in the country.

Deadliest Catch: New season brings big changesBy Heather Smith,

Staff Writer

As the spring semester comes to a close and summer vacation plans are in full swing, Northeast students will find themselves in a quandary over what to do with their downtime when not taking summer classes. With summer extending over the months of June and July, students will have a variety of options if not attending summer school.

Either find a job, rest and relax or take in as many movies as one can.

Summer movie season will officially be underway as classes release for the summer.

To go along with the vacation from school, the movie industry will be rolling out some of its most anticipated blockbusters during the summer months.

Those that have already premiered and are playing right now include: “African Cats”, “Arthur”, “Atlas Shrugged: Part 1”, “Battle: Los Angeles”, “Diary Of A Wimpy Kid: Roderick Rules”, “Fast Five”, “HOP”, “Hanna”, “Insidious”, “Jane Eyre”, “Limitless”, “Madea Goes To Jail”, “Madeas Big Happy Family”, “Of Gods and Men”, “Red Riding Hood”,

“Rio”, “Scream 4”, “Soul Surfer”, “Source Code”, “The Adjustment Bureau”, “The Conspirator”, “The Kings of Speech”, “The Lincoln Lawyer”, “The Roommate”, “Water for Elephants”, “Win Win”, and “Your Highness.”

Movies such as “Thor”, “Something Borrowed”, “Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides”, and many others will start out the season releases in May.

June follows with films like “X-Men: First Class”, “Super 8”, “Green Lantern”, “Cars 2”, “Mr. Poppers Penguins”, and others.

In July “Transformers: Dark of the Moon”, “Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows, Part 2”, “Captain America: The First Avenger”, “Friends with Benefits”, “Cowboys and Aliens”, and “Crazy, Stupid, Love” all hit theatres among many others.

Wrapping up in August will be “Final Destination 5”, “The Smurfs”, “The Change Up”, and a few other last minute summer debuts.

If in need of something to do over summer break from Northeast, then the theater might be a satisfactory place to turn to to beat summer boredom and to find an air-conditioned escape from the Southern heat.

Boredom equals Summer movie timeBy Lacey Burcham,

Staff Writer

Now in my opinion, there is no one better to play Arthur than Dudley Moore. He was one of a kind.

I do not know how they even got permission for this 2011 remake of the movie Arthur to be made. Now I have nothing against Russell Brand, but he can not play the role of Arthur.

Dudley Moore made us laugh at playing a drunk, and he did it so well, you would have thought he was really drunk.

PLOT- About the same. A rich playboy(Arthur ) must marry Susan the woman his father and her father chose for him. Or he will lose millions.

But he met someone else whom he falls in love with.

His father/mother disagrees with his decision and tells him if he does not marry her they will cut him off.

The Parent- In 1981 it was Arthur’s father who controlled him, but in the remake it is his mother who tries to control him.

The nanny/butler –In both movies they

are both name Hobson, but in the remake it is Helen Mirren, as Arthur’s nanny . In the 1981 version it is a man- actor John Gielgud, whom I thought did a well performance as the butler, he was very witty and smart mouth to Arthur, but he treated Arthur like his own child, which he had raised since he was a child.

In the 1981 (Arthur) he falls in love with Linda Morolla, which is played by actress Liza Minelli.

In 2011, it is Naomi, played by Greta Gerwig.

I do not really want to get into the

details of those who have not seen either one of these movies, which I do not know why no one has not even seen Arthur 1981.

But go to Netflix and look at it and go to the movies and see Arthur 2011 and make your choice, I guarantee you will choose Arthur 1981 with Dudley Moore.

Sadly we have lost Dudley Moore , he died on March 27,2002 of pneumonia which was caused by the brain disorder he had called “Progressive supranuclear palsy. He loved to play the piano.

His final words were, “I can hear the music all around me.

By Debbie Friar,Staff Writer

Current Arthur does not touch 1981 version

Northeast 90-member Chorus and Chamber Choir held its final

performance of the 2010-11 season on Tuesday, April 26 in the Hines

Hall Auditorium. Northeast’s final performance of the year featured music from Broadway as well as

selected spirituals. The Northeast Chorus is made up of students

who love to sing and who want to represent Northeast as part of a

musical ensemble. Students in the chorus represent many different

academic programs of study and have a wide range of musical backgrounds.

The Chorus meets for one class period on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday. No audition is required for Chorus. The Northeast Chamber

Choir is composed of students who wish to sing more advanced choral literature. Interested students will audition at the first two rehearsals

for Chamber Choir.