A PROGRAM THAT GIVES area youngsters the opportunity to cheer with the Missouri State University-West Plains Cheer Team at a Grizzly Basketball game has raised $570 this year for the Samantha Beach Scholarship. Nearly 30 area boys and girls attended the Sam’s Cubs cheer clinic Jan. 13 to learn a cheer and dance from current cheer team members, alumni, coaching staff and Beach family members for their performance later that day at the Grizzly Basketball game. The children also received special direction on tumbling, court presence, smiling and cheering, organizers said. Proceeds from the clinic support the $400 scholarship, which is renewable. “This is our second year to host the fundraiser, and our attendance increased,” said Grizzly Cheer Team Sponsor Rachel Peterson. “We anticipate the clinic and performance growing over the years. The little ones had a great time and were a huge hit at the game!” The scholarship and clinic honors former Zizzer Cheerleader and Grizzly Cheer Team member Samantha Beach, who passed away in 2015. (Missouri State-West Plains Photo).