MAC trustees hear ‘Homecoming’ update
PARK HILLS – The Mineral Area College Board of Trustees were informed Thursday that the school is gearing up for its annual homecoming set for Feb. 8.
MAC assistant to the president and homecoming organizer, Kevin Thurman, announced the news at the board’s regular monthly meeting held in the boardroom on the Park Hills campus.
He said this year’s homecoming basketball games will have the men’s and women’s teams battling against arch-rival Three Rivers.
“Alumni, students and friends can follow homecoming developments on the MAC Facebook page,” Thurman said.
He added the event is a time for alumni to come to the community college, enjoy the basketball match-ups, and reminisce about their days at MAC or its predecessor, Flat River Junior College.
“As a former MAC basketball player, I’ve been enjoying MAC’s homecoming over the last dozen years or so. It’s always so great and surprising to see who makes it, and of course, the Three Rivers match-up is always a great draw,” he said.
In addition to the athletic events, Thurman said, “The performances, games and activities should make for a fun evening for the entire family.”
He continued, “We’ll have the MAC and Flat River Junior College yearbooks out as usual, and a place for alumni to gather and chat, and the half-time entertainment can’t be beat.” Our own Redbird Revolution and cheerleading teams have come up with some amazing routines.”
Homecoming events actually kick off Feb. 7, with a pep rally for students, chili with the cheerleaders, games with prizes and a chance to win a free iPad.
The main event happens on that Saturday.
“Anyone needing MAC-wear in advance of the games can pick up a hoodie, sweatshirt, T-shirt or jacket in the MAC Bookstore, which opens on 4 p.m. on Feb. 8,” Thurman said.
Free shuttle service between the field house and campus parking lots will be provided compliments of MAC’s Christian Student Union. Visitors can call Joe Banderman at 573-795-6796 for a ride.
There will also be fun activities for the kids, said Thurman, with Kirby the Cardinal coloring books and crayons available in the alumni room just off the gym.
At 4:30 p.m., prior to game time, MAC’s Music Dept. — under the direction of Music Instructor Michael Goldsmith — will perform classic hits to warm up the crowd.
The Lady Cardinals take on Three Rivers at 5 p.m. Admission is $5 for adults, $2 for young people. Half-time entertainment will be offered by Redbird Revolution.
Between the games, Kirby the Cardinal will make his appearance on the floor. Winners of the “Most Spirited Award” will be chosen and announced. A $50 gift card will go to the first place winner.
The men’s basketball game against the Three Rivers Raiders begins at 7 p.m. Admission is $5 for adults and $2 for young people, or free for those who already paid to attend the women’s basketball game. During half-time, MAC’s cheerleaders will take the floor.
Thurman said after the game, kids can join Kirby the Cardinal and Athletic Director Chad Mills on the gym floor to shoot some hoops like a MAC Cardinal.
In other action by the board at their meeting, updates were heard regarding the school’s TRIO, Distance Education and AQIP programs, as well as reports from the Classified Staff and Faculty Forum.
MAC president, Dr. Steve Kurtz, gave trustees an update on upcoming legislation affecting upper education in the state; and Dean of Student Services Jean Merrill-Doss reported the spring semester enrollment is 3,516 students and they are taking a total of 38,133 credit hours.
Next month’s trustees meeting will be held Feb. 13 in the MAC boardroom.
“As a former MAC basketball player, I’ve been enjoying MAC’s homecoming over the last dozen years or so.”
— Kevin Thurman, assistant to the president
Kirby the Cardinal, MAC’s athletic mascot, warms up the crowd during Homecoming 2013. This year’s annual Homecoming will have the men’s and women’s basketball teams battling against arch-rival Three Rivers.
The Mineral Area Board of Trustees heard from Assistant to the President Kevin Thurman about the school’s annual Homecoming event set for Feb. 8. Thurman said the day will offer two basketball games, music and activities for the entire family.
Kevin Jenkins is a reporter for the Daily Journal and can be reached at 573-518-3614 or kjenkins@dailyjournalonline.com
