Year 44 Issue 9 by SCCC Student Media

April 1

Year 44, No. 9

Crusader www.crusadernews.com

2013

Presorted Standard US Postage PAID Liberal, KS Permit NO.114

Liberal, Kansas

Tuition Grinding the rails rates Air Amado Style increase Student finds passion in skateboarding Giseelle Arredondo Crusader staff

Easter Egg Hunt — Page 1B

Xtreme Challenge — Pages 2B-3B

Saints Basketball Recap — Page 6

He yells. He grinds on rails. He fixes. Adrian Amado, a 19year-old freshman attending Seward County Community College/Area Technical School, is a dedicated skateboarder, enthusiastic yell leader, and passionate auto technician. Amado has been skating since he was 6 years old. It all started with rollerblading in Hugoton and when he moved to Liberal he bought himself a skateboard. His passion with skateboarding started there. “The first time I skated, I was going down the ramps sitting on the skateboard. After a while, I built the courage to stand on the board and go down a ramp,” recalls Amado, “I kept trying though ’cause you can’t get better at something without getting back up and trying again.” Amado found skating was a great way to meet people. “Heck yeah, that’s where I met most of my friends, and we would call each other up to go skating around town or at the park,” Amado said. At 8 years of age, Amado had the chance of participating in a skating competition. “The skate competition was pretty small and was only known by those who skated everyday. It was held at the Mary Frame skate park. I did let someone win,” said Amado. “Why? Shoot, I don't even know. Maybe because he was my best friend and he said we would split the money, so I let him win and guess what? I never got my split of the money.” As a kid, Amado would skate any chance he had. Amado would “skate until it got dark. Every hour. All day. Every day in the summer.” In high school, however, he had to put off skateboarding. “It got kind of hard to fit skateboarding into my schedule when I had sports, a job, and of course, maintaining my grades,” Amado said, “Now that I’m in college it’s fun getting back into it.” Amado enjoys doing tricks, such as front side 180, popshove it, and kick flip. “I don’t even know what the tricks are called,” he said. He also prefers to do ramps rather than street tricks. “I just feel like I can do more on ramps than I can on the ground. It doesn’t help that the cops are always after you if they find you street skating.” Amado skates “any warm day now because work and school

get in the way.” Amado has not had any injuries with skateboarding yet. He once cracked an ankle during football season his freshman year in high school. “I see skateboarding as an activity that kept me out of trouble and occupied,”Amado said, “I like skateboarding because it relaxes me but stresses me when I’m trying to learn a new trick. Sad to say, but skateboarding isn’t for everyone. If you are coordinated with your feet then I say, ‘Hey, give it a shot’.” As busy as Amado is, he still finds time to fit in being on the squad for yell leading. He was drawn into yell leading by his cousin, Jake Flores. “There’s nothing wrong with touching girls and getting free books out of it,” Amado said with a chuckle. Amado decided to attend SCCC/ATS because not only does it have a good auto mechanics program, but its also a cheaper alternative compared to $30,000 schools. “It’s really good. I like it,” Amado said. He will be attending another year so he can get his associates degree in applied science, and he will be looking into yell leading again. Amado likes yell leading enough that he is considering continuing it. “I wouldn't mind doing yell leading at another school,” Amado said. Besides skateboarding and yell leading, Amado also spends some of his free time playing Xbox, preferably Call of Duty or Halo, going outside and playing tennis, going bowling, and practicing jui-jitsu, which is Brazilian martial arts. “I wanted to do this P90X workout and my mom said she knew a guy from work that had it. I was told to go to his house at 8 and I did. Next thing you know I enter a shed in the back yard with a few guys in GIs. I thought I was at the wrong house for a bit. Talk about awkward. So I tried it out and it turns out that I liked it a lot.” Amado proudly said he will be playing for the Saints tennis team next semester. Amado wants to work for a year after graduation and then move to Tennessee and go to school in Lincoln Technical College, which is for high customized, high performance engines and transmissions that vary from turbos to superchargers, dyno testing. He then wants to move to either Texas or California and open his own shop.

Jose Medrano Editor Tuition and fee rates will increase next semester at Seward County Community College/ Area Technical School. The Board of Trustees approved the new rates March 4 that effect tuition, fees and student housing on campus. Tuition rates per credit hour for in-state residents have increased from $44 to $46, border state residents $60 to $65 and international and out-of-state residents $75 to $80. Seward County residents will not see an increase in their tuition per credit hour. Online credit hours have also increased for the upcoming semester from $80 to $90 per hour. The funds from tuition support the college’s facilities, instructors, staff, administration, resources and other services. The total tuition and fees for students will be as follows: Seward County residents $74, instate residents $78, border state residents $97 and for international and out-of-state residents $112 for the 2013-2014 academic year. The fee increase will go towards technology and expansion of the college, according to Board of Trustees report. Student housing rates also increased. Double occupancy dorms in the Student Living Center increased from $2,160 to $2,240 per semester, singles increased from $4,820 to $5,020 for the full academic year. Hale Court will see in an increase from $2,060 to $2,140 for double occupancy, singles will increase from $4,620 to $4,820 for the full academic year. “The two main factors behind the increase in housing cost are food services and utilities,” said Dean of Student Services Celeste Donovan. A 4 percent increase on food services and food is one of the factors. “It is hard to see an increase on our students, but we have pride in being one of the most affordable schools in Kansas. Even with the slight increase we are still a very affordable college,” Donovan said. The increase in tuition and fees will be implemented in the 2013-2014 fiscal year.

News Briefs Crusader photo/ Giseelle Arredondo

Adrian Amado performs an ollie over stacked skateboards on a ramp at Mary Frame skate park. Amado has been skating since he was 6.

Poetry Reading Contest — Page 5

Spring enrollment Enrollment for the summer and fall semesters of 2013 is currently under way. Students are recommended to meet with their advisers in order to select their classes. Enrollment slips and course lists can be picked up in the registrar’s office.

Astronaut visit APRIL 3 — NASA astronaut Jeffrey Williams will be visiting and touring Liberal. At 5:30 p.m. he will be speaking at a free public session in the Green House.

All Saints Days APRIL 6 — The first All Saints Day of the year will take place on the campus for students who are enrolling or interested in attending the college. Pre-register at allsaintsdays.com For more information call 620-417-1100.

Children’s Art Day

‘Assassins’ Play and Cast — Page 4B

Crusader photo/ Giseelle Arredondo

Adrian Amado is a freshman at Seward County Community College/Area Technical School. He is a yell leader, skateboarder and auto technician.

APRIL 6 — Kylix will be hosting its Children’s Art Day. Children in between the grades of first through sixth can register. The fee for registration is $15. Parents can register children by calling Susan Copas at 620-417-1453.

NEWS

2 CRUSADER

Monday, April 1, 2013

Crusader photo/ Jose Medrano

Lady Saints basketball players Sheree Ryan and Fabiana Monte make phone calls to alumni and possible donors during Phonathon. Crusader photo/ Jose Medrano

Members of the Hispanic American Leadership Organization participate in the Phonathon Wednesday to help raise money for scholarships. Clubs, organizations and sports teams have signed up to participate this year. Times slots are still available for groups looking to get involved.

Phonathon swinging off to a strong start With the beginning of spring, it is also time for the annual college Phonathon. This year’s goal has been set at $35,000 and the March 24 opening night was off to a good start. The SCCC baseball team has raised $8,440 to start out this year’s Phonathon. That amount beats last year’s amount by $165. And they are not finished raising funds. “We still have a few alumni that have told us that they are making a donation but we will not have their commitment until a later date,” said head baseball coach Galen McSpadden. The baseball team raised its donation amount in just over two

and a half hours and a few of the players were still trying to contact people at the closing of the opening night time slot. The participant that received the largest amounts of donations last year was trying to meet or beat his amount from last year. Jonathan Griffith did not reach that goal on the opening night of the Phonathon. With donations of about $1,700, which is only about $150 short of last year’s amount, Griffith said, “It wasn’t because I didn’t try. But, I do have a few donors that have committed to donate but didn’t give an amount.” Participants are given a list of alumni and the baseball team was no exception. Most of the alumni that they were trying to

contact were former baseball players for SCCC/ATS. The alumni are told that the purpose of the Phonathon is to raise funds for scholarships that will assist students at SCCC/ATS so they can receive the education that the donors once received themselves. Participants are awarded strands of beads, funny glasses, hats, candy, glow in the dark cups and a few other items for reaching different amounts. Along with the fun items the participants can win during their shifts, participants also have the opportunity to win a Wii as well as gift cards and other items. Dean of Student Services, Celeste Donovan, has tried to get groups to commit to a time to do

Farm Day

Members of Southwestern Heights' FFA chapter, SCCC/ATS instructors and students hosted Farm Education Day March 19 in the ag building. The event was planned and hosted by the Seward County Community College/ Area Technical School’s ag department. Children from local elementary schools attended the event. The children toured the building, petted farm animals such as chickens and horses, climbed into the cab of a tractor and learned about nutrition and different soil types. More pictures of the event can be found at Facebook.com/CrusaderNews.

CRUSADER Fax: 620.417.1169

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Crusader photo/ Jose Medrano

Lady Saints basketball players Kelsey Blair and Anete Kirsteine pose for a shot during the Lady Saints Phonathon time slot Wednesday.

Crusader photo/ Jose Medrano

Children pet a chicken while attending Farm Education Day. Chickens were not the only animals that the children could pet. Horses, geese, goats and even a llama were present. Classes from local elementary schools attended the event hosted March 19 in the ag building.

co-editor Jose Medrano

2008 - CMA Best of Show, Newspaper, 1st/ Special Section, 3rd 2003-2004, 2010-2011 - Newspaper Pacemaker Finalist - ACP 2008 First Place Certificate - ASPA 2011-2012 - Silver Medal Overall - KACP

Phone: 620.417.1459

the Phonathon. The groups and organizations that have made commitments so far are the volleyball team, Student Government Association, Cheer and Dance, Sports Medicine, Hispanic American Leadership Organization, Pathway, Phi Theta Kappa, Presidential Scholars, the RAs and the women’s basketball team. “We are still waiting to hear from some of the other groups and organizations around campus,” Donovan said. For the opening night of this year’s Phonathon, the phones were only manned from 4:306:30 p.m., but phones will be manned until 8:30 p.m. weeknights until the closing night of April 11.

co-editor Tonya Loewen news editor Matthew Adkins entertainment editor Morgan Riley online editor Cinthia Serna sports editor Sandy Alfaro ad manager Celestina Padilla

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Giseelle Arredondo Julia Frey Jordan Long Fabi Peña Dawn Shouse Jakub Stepanovic Cheree Turley Jeremiah Wilson

The official student newspaper of Seward County Community College/Area Technical School is published bi-monthly and as special editions by journalism students during the regular college year, except on school holidays and during examination periods. One copy of each issue is distributed free to each student, faculty and staff member, with subsequent copies available for purchase in the Crusader office at 50 cents each. Letters to the editor will be considered for publication if they are signed and the authenticity of the writer’s signature is verified. The staff reserves the right to edit for length. Opinions voiced in letters and editorials are not necessarily those of Seward County Community College/Area Technical School or the Crusader. Advertising is accepted. Rates are $4 per column inch or $4.80 pci for color ads. Insert rates are $50 per thousand. Classified ads are free to SCCC students, faculty and staff; classified rates for all others are $4 per ad, limit of 20 words. The Crusader staff reserves the right to refuse advertising. Mail to: Crusader, Box 1137, Liberal, KS 67905, or editors@crusadernews.com.

NEWS

Monday, April 1, 2013

CRUSADER 3

Courtesy photo

Flowers in memory of Lori Geis line the sanctuary of Okeene United Methodist Church at Geis’ funeral March 18. Several former students and co-workers from Seward County Community College attended the services.

Former Seward instructor loses battle with cancer Cinthia Serna Online e ditor Lori Geis’ former music students gathered once again to practice for a singing performance. Only this time, Geis wasn’t there to direct them. Her vocal students had come together to honor Geis’ memory by singing at her funeral. Geis, 41, died March 11 in Okeene, Okla., after battling cervical cancer. She had been the vocal music instructor at Seward County Community College from 1996 to 2009. “She was a great teacher, but she was even a better friend. She

touched a lot of people’s hearts,” said Jennifer Malin, former student and friend of Geis. Another extremely close friend was Amy Bridenstine, also a former music student at SCCC/ATS. Bridenstine was at Geis’ side often in the final days following a diagnosis of cervical cancer in the summer of 2012. At the start of 2013, family and friends received the news that Geis had only a short time to live. Many people showed up at her funeral March 18 to say their final goodbyes to their beloved friend. “There wasn’t a dry eye at the

funeral, because she meant so much to us,” Bridenstine said. Twenty-four of Geis’ former music students from Seward sang in the choir that day, bidding farewell to their instructor and friend. Geis was born on Aug. 1, 1971, in Okeene to parents Bill and Betty Geis. Her father preceded her in death. She is survived by her mother, Betty, who has been an adjunct instructor at Seward. Other survivors include her brother, Lynn E. Geis. Geis graduated from Okeene High School in 1989 and decided to pursue her dream of going into music.

To continue her education in music, Geis enrolled at Oklahoma City University. In 1993, she earned her bachelor’s degree in music performance, and then in 1996, she earned her master’s degree. She was offered the vocal music position at Seward County Community College, where she spent the next 13 years directing choirs. “Lori always made class a fun time, but don’t get me wrong, we also practiced, but we didn’t have a boring day,” Malin said. During her time in Liberal, Geis also was choir director at the First Christian Church and

spent much of her free time teaching private voice lessons. She traveled with her college choir groups for performances at Carnegie Hall in New York City, to Salt Lake City and the Mormon Tabernacle and to Victoria Island, British Columbia. “We got to experience many things that other people have never experienced before, thanks to Lori,” Bridenstine said. Her Sound Express Show Choir traveled to Branson, Mo. for performances. She also directed spring and winter concerts at the college and participated in school musicals. Geis moved back to Okla-

homa to pursue her doctorate and was hired at Marlow Public Schools to teach high school and junior high music programs. She wanted to earn her doctorate degree in music performance when she moved back to the Oklahoma City area. Geis had been diagnosed with Crohn’s disease and ongoing health problems prevented her from continuing her education. That did not destroy Lori’s spirit though. She still kept teaching her students. “Lori was very devoted to her students. She never had any kids of her own so her students were her kids,” Bridenstine said.

Courtesy photo

Former Seward County instructor Lori Geis with her close friend Amy Bridenstine, who is currently the accounts payable clerk at Seward. Geis died of cancer on March 11.

Lori Geis Memorial Scholarship established The Lori Geis Memorial Scholarship has been established as an endowment fund with the SCCC/ATS Foundation from funds given in Lori’s memory. The scholarship will be for a student participating in the vocal music program. Memorials may be sent to the SCCC/ATS Foundation at Box 1137, Liberal, KS 67905.

Courtesy photo

Lori Geis’ former SCCC students attended to sing at her funeral March 18. Front, Tammy Wardlaw, Norma Farrar, Christina Chavez, Kristina Ferguson, Jennifer Malin. Second row, Alison Campbell, Melissa Abla, Machelle Zook, Amy Bridenstine, Lindsey Carter, Becky Robison, Jimmy Ortiz, Brett Bontke, Monica Kerbow, Drew Pierce, and Lori’s mother, Betty Geis. Back, Murray Dean, Johnny Mills, Craig Ferguson, Derek Grant, Kathy Elder, Aldo Beltrani, Rene Hurd, Kim Pierce. Others who sang with the group but are not picture were Rosendo Armendariz, Hillary Anderson, Derek Bridenstine, Kristen Martinez, Ashley Fellows, Marilyn Svaty and Justin Novinger.

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OPINION

4 CRUSADER

Monday, April 1, 2013

—OUR VIEW

Physical Education students lose time Seward County Community College/ Area Technical School offers many physical education classes. From Aquarobics to Zumba, students can take a variety of classes to earn their P.E. credit hours. One of the classes that students can take is Individual Health and Conditioning, which requires students to workout on their own time at the Wellness Center. Students sign in and clock hours throughout the semester for their credit hours. The system was set up to help students achieve a fast and easy way to check in, but it hasn’t been easy for everyone. At the end of every semester it is not hard to find students who are having to workout extra hours because of mismanagement. The majority of the clock-

ing-in problems is caused by mismanagement of the log-in system at the Wellness Center. Students are required to have an hour per week of the semester for the class. It is not only current students who have had this problem. Former students who have taken the class have experienced issues as well. Horror stories of working out five or more hours in the last few days of a semester have not only been experienced and told by Crusader staff members, but by other students as well. Working out eight hours straight to catch up on hours that were already completed, but lost because of mismanagement of the log-in system that was caused by either the staff or digital system at the Wellness Center is something

that no student should have to experience. “The student workers are supposed to clock you in when you go to the gym; however, at times they would tell you they clocked you in and later you would end up discovering they had not,” said Raul Lemus, a former student at Seward County. Lemus was in the Individual Health and Conditioning class and struggled at the end of semester when he learned that he was missing hours. For some students it has only gotten more hectic due to the all-digital change. The physical logbook that students relied on was replaced by a log-in system that requires the person’s name and a photo for clarification. Although the system streamlines the process, it can

also cause problems. “If someone has a problem they can come to me. The earlier they come to me the more time we have to help them,” said Director of Aquatics and Wellness, Andy Highfill. Just like any other classes, students have to take Individual Health and Conditioning seriously. Even if it is only one credit hour, students must take part of the responsibility if something occurs with their hours. A way the Wellness Center could help prevent this issue is by having a scanner similar to the one that the cafeteria uses. Students could scan their student ID to clock in and clock out of the wellness center. It would eliminate the problem of searching for difficult last names to clock in. Also students could

help alleviate the problem by keeping a log of all their hours that they have worked out. Simply relying on a computer system that may falter is reason enough for a student to record his or her own hours. Talking to the staff of the Wellness Center is also important. Making sure that you are clocked in and out every time can stop you from experiencing what others do at the end of the semester. There is a problem, and if you have had a similar experience we would like to know. This is a problem that can be solved. Contact us at editors@crusadernews.com or stop by our office, room AA131.

illustrations: Jose Medrano

Litigation should work to improve a society rather than exclude Literature Matthew Adkins News editor adkins@crusadernews.com

Nearly every adult has an opinion on gay marriage in America and, whether they’re for or against it, they want some sort of legislation passed that favor their views. People who are against gay marriage reason that is immoral, the Bible forbids it or it’s against their religion, that it’s unnatural and that it defiles the nature of normal marriages. Whether or not these beliefs

are founded on truth or logic really isn’t relevant however, as it is extremely unlikely that anyone will change a deeply held belief. While I am more than okay with people who have beliefs against same sex marriages, I don’t think that is at all proper, fair or reasonable to pass legislation that would essentially attempt to turn, what can be objectively be construed as opinion into fact. That is to say a law that makes same sex marriage illegal or would define marriage as only occurring between a man and woman would not do anything to improve a country or state’s personal needs unless there is a need to oppress homosexual people.

I’m certainly not saying that people shouldn’t fight for what they believe in, but when doing so would be forcing personal ideals onto another person or a specific group of people, it becomes an issue of equality. The United States was founded on the principles of freedom and equality, and forcing people to conform to a single ideal that is almost entirely based on personal opinion and belief is not equality. In fact it begins to approach fascism. Even though homosexuals are a minority, their opinions and beliefs are equally valid and should not be immediately discredited. The main difference between the stances on same sex marriage is

that one stance, those against it, actively oppresses a group of people, and the other stance ,those for it, only asks that others tolerate its existence. As a Christian, I was never told that people who don’t share my beliefs should be shunned or that I should keep anyone from believing what they want. Aside from personal opinion, there are little to no legitimate scientific studies that would support the opposition to same sex marriage in any way aside from the inability to reproduce. But since it’s not technically required for a married couple to have children, the idea that the inability to reproduce is relevant to the concept of marriage is

purely subjective. Because of the lack of sturdy factual support of either side of the debate, it would actually be more reasonable and fair to make same sex marriage legal. Then again, to make same sex marriage “legal” would imply that homosexual relationships are naturally ostracized by the majority of society. So this means that same sex marriage is illegal by default, and the only reason to make a law that explicitly makes it illegal only serves to legally oppress a people. Maybe the real debate is whether it’s right to turn the majority opinion into a law without any legal proceedings.

College ‘sophomoritis’ breaks grades and wastes time Jose Medrano Editor Medrano@crusadernews.com

There are exactly 30 school days left until the end of the semester. Although the cold weather may say otherwise, summer is only two months away, three if you’re a summer solstice nerd. For some graduating sophomores, this is the time when a new foe appears in their lives, sophomoritis.

After spring break, everything just seems to fall apart. The spring semester is the season of failing grades, missing homework, faulty attendance and demotivation. College sophomoritis is very different from senioritis that is experienced in high school. But what can be done about it? First of all, remember that there are only 30 days left in the semester. Don’t give up now. For four semesters, or more, you have battled everything that a college curriculum has been able to throw at you.

Projects, homework, lab reports, finals, essays, research projects, group presentations and speeches have not broken you down yet. Stop skipping, I know that is very tempting to just forget about class for a couple of days but unless you want to see your A’s, B’s or floating C’s turn into failing grades, stop skipping. Getting into finals mode early does help. The sooner you start reviewing stuff the sooner the semester will be over. Grades are not yet set in stone for the semester. There is enough time to fin-

ish strong. If you’re not doing well in a class, either stop procrastinating or ask for help. If you’re failing a class and you have talked to both your instructor and adviser about the grade and there is nothing that can be done then drop now. There is no point in attempting to rebound in a class where all hope has been lost, but like I said talk to both your advisor and the instructor before dropping. Staying well rested is important especially if you’re trying to finish strong. Sleep as much as possible, but not through class.

Having those full seven hours of sleep is crucial in motivation and in schoolwork. Regaining motivation is probably the hardest thing to do. Do anything that is possible to gain bursts of motivation; try something new, talk to a counselor, watch motivational YouTube videos, make new friends, make your family and close friends cheer you on. Don’t give in and let the college sophomoritis take hold of you. End this semester with a bang.

Going to school, exactly like baking a cake Celestina Padilla Crusader staff Padilla@crusadernews.com

Going to school is like cake-in an alternate meaning. While the term "it's cake" or "it's pie" refer to something easily accomplished, I take a contradictory and literal spin to the terms. It involves Commitment. It involves ingredients. It involves mixing. It involves time.

It involves enjoying your piece of cake. First and foremost, you have to make a commitment to making a cake in the first place. High school diploma? Done. Path to an associates degree? Done. Plan for bachelor's? Done. It's important to get work done, have a recipe/plan laid out, and stay focused on maintaining grades. Tuition, books, and other fees are pricey–get your money's worth. Secondly, are your ingredients on hand? Like in a recipe, having a successful semester consists of several elements that when combined make for a good dessert.

Five generous helpings of noggin, and two cups of common sense can get you a long way. Keep it sweet and simple, avoid sour ingredients that can hinder rather than help your recipe's deliciousness. Next, we mix! Most college students have jobs–be it parttime or full time. Juggling time at school, time at work and time at home is difficult. Oftentimes it can seem like there are simply not enough hours in the day, these are similar to lumps in batter. Stir it as best as you can, not everyone will be happy with you

100 percent of the time. Heck, maybe not even 80 percent of the time, but what you can do is be consistent in your strokes and try to blend as best as you can. After the mixture has been successfully mixed, it is time to bake. Much like in baking, time is an element that is tricky. Some days can feel like an eternity, other days can fly by in what seems like few hours. The mind is powerful and so it's important to be knowledgeable but also let time take a toll on how things will play out. Lastly, it is important to ice

and enjoy that cake. The icing would definitely be the sweetest element, seeing who was there for you throughout this strenuous time in life. The people with the best recipes: your mom, dad, grandma, adviser, best friends, instructors, coaches... you get the point. It's a difficult time in our lives and there is much indecision, little lumps mixed throughout, and a lot of heat in the kitchen. Be cautious, consistent, and creative. You could end up with some delicious cake.

for fun?

Giseelle Arredondo Crusader staff Arredondo@crusadernews.com

College is all about trying new things, and stepping out of one’s comfort zone, so why not pick a challenging course and actually get something out of college? That’s right, put your money to good use. The Introduction to Literature with English instructor Bill McGlothing is as challenging as it is fun. The careful reading, analyzing and dissecting of fiction stories, such as “Soldier’s Home” by Ernest Hemingway, “Fingers” by Gary Gildner, “A Good Man Is Hard to Find,” by Flannery O’Connor, “Young Goodman Brown” by Nathaniel Hawthorne, help readers unlock the works’ hidden mysteries by giving them the tools necessary to understand literature. Readers will learn how to view life from different perspectives and actually understand the real meaning in the text. For example, in “Soldier’s Home,” students can learn about the struggle that veterans experience in trying to come home after being involved in war. Any student who has the opportunity to take his class should totally go for it and check it out. He or she has nothing to lose and everything to gain. I understand, essays are almost always found to be painful to write and poetry is somewhat intimidating and hard to understand, but the struggle is all worth it in the end because it all contributes to one becoming a more intense critical reader and thinker. It’s OK to struggle with English. Just know that there is help available if needed. McGlothing is willing to do everything a teacher can to help his students become better readers. He’ll even get down on the ground into a fetal position or put on a clown nose if needed. And if all else fails, there’s always Smarthinking supplement on the college campus portal or even better, resort to one of the tutors in the Student Success Center. I don’t know if a portal to another world will open up for every student, but I do know that if he or she truly applies himself or herself, it will be a very satisfying and pleasant experience. Hard work will pay off.

NEWS

Monday, April 1, 2013

CRUSADER 5

Dreitz retires to Arkansas Cinthia Serna Online editor Donetta Dreitz, the registrar at Seward County Community College/Area Technical School has announced that she will retire at the end of this semester. “I want to enjoy my retirement while my health is still good,” Dreitz explained. She has been working at the college for 15 years and is ready to take a break. Sometimes working at a job for many years can lead to plenty of memories. One of her favorite times of the year is graduation. “It’s so much fun to watch students accomplish one of their first and only degree,” said Dre-

itz about commencement. Dreitz went to college at Fort Hays State University for three years. However, Dreitz did not finish college. “I was silly, and thought I didn’t need college so I didn’t earn a degree,” said Dreitz about leaving FHSU. “I thought I wanted to be a ‘Nurse Nancy’ at first, but I was like a lot of students today. I didn’t know what I wanted to do. I think that’s probably one of the biggest reason I quit going to school at Fort Hays after three years. I just didn’t know where I was headed at the time,” said Dreitz. Although she didn’t earn her degree at FHSU she decided to

Poet ry Con test

go back to school at the age of 50. She earned her bachelor’s degree in organizational management at Friends University. Dreitz and her husband Joe Dreitz will be leaving Liberal and moving to Arkansas. Once they sell their house and make arrangements to move away, they will head to Rogers, Ark. “My husband went fishing with my niece’s husband down there several years ago and fell in love with it,” Dreitz said. “My husband loves to fish, so I expect to spend a lot of time on a boat,” said Dreitz about how she would spend her retirement. When she was asked if she will ever come back to visit she said, “Oh yeah, this is my home.”

Crusader photo

Donetta Dreitz will retire at the end of the spring 2013 semester after working at SCCC/ATS for 15 years. After finishing the year, Dreitz plans to move to Arkansas with her husband and expects to spend a lot of time on a boat while her husband fishes.

Poetry contest opens doors for wider range of participants

r othe & h Cas rizes p l 18 i r p A

Jose Medrano Editor

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New members were inducted in Kappa Beta Delta March 24. Pictured on the right are honorary inductees Nick and Lisa Hatcher. Inductees are as follows in alphabetical order: Katiuska Adarmes Arias, Alejandro Ayala, Larissa Batterton, Beth Beard, Genesis Enriques, Gloria Fisher, Mayra Gonzalez-Barrientos, Author Hight, Laura Michel, Leonardo Morales, Wanda Ray, Hector Reyes, Sherelle Shuck, Jacqueline Wheat, Preston Whisenant and Allee Young. Come by Carroll Auto Glass at 2240 N. Kansas in Liberal or call for mobile service.

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The annual Poetry Coffee House will be hosted April 18 in the Humanities building by the Seward County Community College /Area Technical English department. This year the contest will be open to college students and faculty from Seward County. In the previous years it had been limited to junior and senior students from area high schools, since scholarships are awarded at the poetry reading to the winners. “Students should take a chance and enter. Even if they think they won’t win. There are a lot of secret poets out there who can write,” said English instructor Janice Northerns, who is co-coordinating the contest. The poetry reading contest is split into two categories: the open and scholarship. Students and faculty are encouraged to enter in the open category. The prizes for the open category include a $25 prize for first place, $15 for second, $10 for third and honorable mention certificates. Other prizes will be included along with the cash

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prizes The scholarship category is only open to high school juniors and seniors. The prizes in the scholarship category are a $100 scholarship and $25 in cash for first place, $100 scholarship and $15 in cash for second place and $15 in cash for third place. There will also be honorable mentions in the scholarship category. Other prizes will be included along with the cash prizes. According to Northerns the number of entries submitted will determine how many people will receive honorable mentions and be allowed to read during the Poetry Coffee House. An outside judge will be judging the poetry contest and the winners will be selected to read their poems. There are general rules and guidelines to submitting a poem are as follows: •The open category is open to anyone ages 14 or older living in Seward County or a bordering county. •The scholarship category is open to any junior or senior currently enrolled in a public or private high school in Kansas or states that border Kansas.

•Poems must be of the author’s original work and have never before been published. •All entries must be typed or word processed on white, blank, standard paper (8 ½ x 11) no handwritten poems will be accepted. •Poems have to be submitted with an entry form •Poetry will be judged on originality, quality, skillful use of language and poetic devices. •Contestants who win first, second and third place MUST attend the Poetry Coffee House and read their winning poem. Honorable mentions will be invited to attend but do not have to read their poems if they choose not to. •Winners will be notified on or before April 15. •Plagiarism will result in a disqualification from the contest. •Up to three poems may be submitted by a contestant. •Contestants should submit two copies of each poem. For the full rules and guidelines, and an entry sheet, people can contact Northerns in the humanities department.

SPORTS

6 CRUSADER

Monday, April 1, 2013

REGION VI RUNDOWN After a conference win over the Hutchinson Blue Dragons the Saints faced the Colby Trojans to tip off the Region VI tournament March 2. The Saints defeated Colby 88-70. After a slow start the Saints were able to sweep the Trojans with a lead of 58-34 at the half. The second half was not a problem for the Saints as the Trojans tried to cut the Saints’ lead, but were unable to. The closest Colby got to the Saints was an 11 point deficit. The Saints were led by Kaheem Ransom with 27 points, Ransom also scored his 1000th career point during the match. He is only one of 10 players in Seward County history to have reached that milestone. The Saints then went on to face Independence in the second round of the Region VI Tournament.

Quarterfinals The last match the Saints played in the Green House for their 2012-2013 season was against Independence College as part of the second round of the Region VI Tournament. The Saints defeated the Pirates 84-66. After falling back six points at the beginning of the match the Saints were able to rebound and pull ahead. The Saints lead at the half 42-27. The Saints held a strong lead over the Pirates and finished strong by shooting 58 percent from the field. The Saints also had a big night around the arch. Shooting 47 percent of their shoots from three-point range. The Saints would go to face Barton in the semifinals of the Region VI tournament in the Hartman Arena in Park City.

Semifinals

Crusader Photo/Jakub Stepanovic

Edson Avila goes up against Barton defenders during the Region VI match up. Saints finished their season at the semifinals, losing 7064 against Barton’s Cougars.

Jayhawk West Coach of the Year

2nd Team AllJayhawk West

Kaheem Ransom

1st Team All-Conference 4 time KJCAA Player of the Week Reached 1000 point mark

Kaheem Ransom drives for a layup against the Barton Cougars during Region VI Tournament semifinals on March 8. Ransom finished his Seward career with 6 KJCCA Player of the Week awards.

Jabari Peters

KJCAA Player of the Week 2nd Team All-Jayhawk West

Edson Avila

Bryan Zollinger

Crusader photo/Jakub Stepanovic

The Saints saw their post-season hopes dashed against Barton’s Cougars in the Hartman Arena March 8. The Saints lost 70-64 after holding a five-point lead in the last five minutes. The Saints struggled in the first half and Barton held a lead of two at the half, 36-34. The Saints started off the second half with some momentum, and gained their first lead of the match within three minutes of the start. Strong runs by the Cougars caused the Saints to lose their lead. With five minutes left the Saints had a five-point lead of 60-55, but a 11 point run by Barton crippled the Saints’ hope. The Saints ended their season with 25 wins and 8 loses.

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SPORTS

Monday, April 1, 2013

CRUSADER 7

Crusader photo/Jose Medrano

Lady Saint Marissa Chavez, No. 15 hits during the Lady Saints double header against Colby March 27.

Lady Saints split two against Colby Celestina Padilla Crusader staff

tney Sharkey recieved her third Pitcher of the Week, and first baseman Stephanie Mark was named Co-Player of the Week. Both Lady Saints have recieved conference honors before. Over Spring Break the team did a lot of traveling and playing. March 12 they faced Glendale and split. The following day they faced South Mountain to whom they lost, but the Lady Saints won their next game against Odessa. The Lady Saints won again against Chandler-Gilbert Coyotes in Coolidge on their final day in Arizona. Overall the 3-3 put the Lady Saints at 17-11. The Lady Saints then faced the

The Lady Saints have had a lot of games in the past month, including a trip to Phoenix, Arz. during Spring Break. Their latest match was against Colby where they ended in a two game split. Colby won the first game 10-0 and the Lady Saints took the second 17-0. Both game were blow outs due to weak pitching from both teams. Some of Seward County’s Lady Saints have caught recogCrusader photo/Jose Medrano nition for their accomplishments Lady Saint Sierra Tadiarca waits for hit during the Lady Saints second game against Colby. The Lady Saints recently by the Kansas Jayhawk split the two games, Colby won the first 10-0 and the Lady Saints won the second 17-0. West Conference. Pitcher Brit-

Lady Bulldogs at Clarendon, TX to which they lost both games, making the Saints 17-13. The following game was at home and the ladies faced Garden City. Though there was some struggle with offense in the first game, the Lady Saints came back for the win and split making the results 18-14 overall. March 22 the Lady Saints faced Barton in a home game and had a back-to-back win with assistance from pitcher Brittney Sharkey. This was the team’s first double header sweep since March 3. The Lady Saints are now 21-17.

Richard’s Routes Miller dedicates 17 years of service to Seward County Julia Frey Crusaderstaff

Crusader photos/ Jakub Stepanovic

Richard Miller has been working at SCCC/ATS for 17 yeaers. Miller has driven more than 600 thousand miles as a bus driver for the college. Miller enjoys traveling and has been to more than 100 diferent places.

Most people who attend classes at Seward County Community College/ Area Technical School know him as Richard Miller the bus driver. He drives for most of the athletic teams and other groups from the college. Miller was born in Liberal, but grew up in Plains. His wife’s name is Viktoria Miller. They have together three children: two sons and one daughter. Before he came to Seward he managed a gas station in Plains. He made his way to Seward through Jerry

Hedrick, whom he golfed with and who worked as counselor at SCCC/ATS. Miller has worked at SCCC/ATS for 17 years now. He has now driven to about 100 different places. Overall Miller has driven more than 600 thousand miles for Seward. Out of the many places Miller has visited he has a few locations that are his favorites: Chicago, Phoenix, Sheridan, Denver, Kansas City and Nashville. He also would love to visit some places in Europe like Germany or Switzerland. The reason why he wants to visit Europe is because he has relatives there.

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His mother’s family has origins in Belgium and he also has a few relatives from Switzerland. If he didn’t enjoy travelling, his job wouldn’t be the right fit for him. Miller likes the interaction with the students. Miller enjoys spending time with the different athletic teams and group organizations. To him all the groups are like family. Bert Luallen, who knows Richard Miller since 8 years, describes him as a “very helpful character that really likes the students and supports them.” To Miller the sense of responsibility that he has over his passengers makes him feel that they

trust him and he appreciates that. Besides his job Miller has some interesting hobbies. He is an artist. He uses his talent in different areas of the arts. He is a good drawer and also makes sculptures out of stone and clay. His favorite material to work with is lumber. He has constructed different kinds of furniture like tables, picture frames and clocks. Miller is also a fan of music. He has his own library of albums at home. Classic rock, blues, southern rock, instrumental, and old country are his favorite music genres.

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FEATURE

8 CRUSADER

Compressed for Progress

Monday, April 1, 2013

This new compressor unit at Seaboard Farms is the type of equipment Seward students in the natural gas compression technology program are learning to work with as part of their training in aspects of gas compression.

NGCT course gears up Dawn Shouse Crusader staff

Natural Gas containers are located at Seaboard Farms facility. Many natural gas compression technology students will be working for facilities such as Seaboard Farms once they receive their certifications.

Natural Gas dryers are located at Seaboard Farms facility; students in Seward’s natural gas compression technology program learn how to work on this type of high tech equipment.

The natural gas compression technology students at Seward County Community College/ Area Technical School who will be receiving their certificates in December are part of the third class of graduates since the program’s conception seven years ago. Dave Miller, salesman at Great Plains Natural Gas Compression out of Hugoton, is on the advisory committee for the program. “My boss, Jim Wilson, and I had a meeting with Dr. (Duane) Dunn, here at Seward County Community College, and asked that this course of study be established. They moved pretty quickly on it because the vocational school was then included into the college to become the Area Technical School,” Miller said. The program, one of only three in the nation, was designed to match similar programs that are being taught in Oklahoma and New Mexico. The result, Miller hopes, will be an influx of new blood into the industry. “The industry is mature. I am a representative of more than 50 percent of employees in the industry and we are getting ready to retire,” Miller said. “The level of sophistication in employees in the gas gathering companies is fairly low once we move out. We have a definite need for young employees to be trained in the aspects of gas compression.” Miller hopes that by establishing the class, employers would have more candidates with rudimentary capabilities to step into the positions that the baby-boomers are vacating. According to Ron Garber, SCCC/ATS Natural Gas Compression Technology instructor, the natural gas industry is the second largest industry in the Southwest Kansas area after agriculture. “I teach the full spectrum of natural gas production equipment. We go over compressors, the related systems and subsystems, as well as skid operation theory,” Garber said, “Basically, I teach everything that has to do with pulling gas out of the ground.” Garber has been a technician and developed the program from the ground up. “The need is there, I wrote the program from a technician’s standpoint with guidance from many of the regional gas producers. I have many of the hiring bosses and field supervisors on my committee, and they have communicated to me exactly what they expect to see from an entry level technician so the course has been designed to meet that need.” Garber added, “If you are good with your hands and you are looking for a career with a minimum amount of initial training, It takes a year to get through this program, and once you successfully complete your certification, you can go to work.

ERICK RUIZ “A friend of mine told me about the class and it sounded real interesting, so I gave the instructor a call and really got into it.”

There are companies out there right now that are hiring.” The course is unique in the fact that it starts in January and a student can receive his or her certification in December. All of the students have an opportunity to go on a paid internship over the summer then return to class in the fall to complete their certification. Jim Plummer, area supervisor J-W Power Company, also serves on the advisory committee, and his company hires directly from the program. “It is a very delicate process, but there are very good results and workers coming out of this class,” Plummer said, “Ron (Garber) has done an excellent job with the students, and the industry has done a good job of providing Ron with the necessary equipment and money to train the students effectively.” Jeremy Olson, sophomore SCCC/ATS, is one of the students who will be receiving his certificate in December. “We are learning to weld and torch. Soon, we will be learning how to work on the motors; aligning, precision measuring, how to tear down a motor and how to rebuild it,” Olson said. Olson has just returned from serving overseas in the armed forces in Iraq. “I was in the Army National Guard. I decided, after the military, that I needed more career skills to provide for my family and me. I chose this area because it is a career that has been around for a long time. I have a real chance to be able to advance in it and this career should be around for many more years to come.” Erick Ruiz, freshman SCCC/ATS, found out about the course from a friend. “It sounded real interesting so I gave the instructor a call and really got into it.” Ruiz said. “Ron Garber is a good teacher. He is real cool. He makes it easy to learn. I like hands-on. It’s better and quicker to learn. It makes it easier to learn. Science wasn’t really my thing in high school. I really didn’t care for it. But now I like it. Ron makes it real easy to learn. There are a lot of jobs in this field; I have a real good chance of getting one after I get my certification in December.” Joseph DeSantos, sophomore SCCC/ATS will also be receiving his certificate in December. “I like everything about this course,” DeSantos said, “Working with the engines, and learning how they run, even down to the little details. The little measurements — if you are off by just a little bit you could ruin it forever. That’s exciting to me.” DeSantos added, “ if you like working outside and being hands-on with things, then definitely look into this course.” Garber and the students are preparing for the much anticipated 61st Annual Liberal Gas Compressor Institute on April 16-17. More information about it is available at gascompressor.info for registration or sponsorship.

JEREMY OLSON “I decided after the military that I needed more career skills to provide for my family and me.”

DAVE MILLER of Great Plains Natural Gas Compression helped start the program. “Seven years ago my boss, Jim Wilson, and I had a meeting with Dr. (Duane) Dunn here at Seward County Community College, and asked that this course of study be established.”

JIM PLUMMER, area supervisor of J-W Power Company, is on the advisory committee for the program. “Ron (Garber)has done an excellent job with the students, and the industry has done a good job of providing Ron with the necessary equipment and money to train the students effectively.”

RON GARBER “I have many of the hiring bosses and field supervisors on my committee, and they have communicated to me exactly what they expect to see from an entry level technician, so the course has been designed to meet that need.”

Crusader photos by Dawn Shouse

JOSEPH DeSANTOS “I decided that I needed to do something else other than education. I decided to get into this because it is growing around the country.”

Crusader lis Finnen. nting by Phyl ai p al in g ri o An ng of the ted this painti le p m co en n Fin eeks ago. ocean a few w

Speech Instructor and Humanities Division Chair Dale Doll received this original painting as a gift from Finnen in January 2013. Doll feels that the painting is special and is honored to own it. The painting is displayed in Doll’s office in the humanities building.

Section B • Page 1

Entertainment Monday, April 1, 2013

SCCC/ATS art instructor Phyllis Finnen, center, helps students Connie Swinney, left, and Marilyn Marchel, right, during the oil painting class at the Liberal Senior Center on March 21.

Crusader photos by Tonya Loewen

Phyllis Finnen poses in front of some paintings in her art room at the Liberal Senior Center. The paintings are created both by Finnen and her students for classes.

Seward art instructor at the Liberal Senior Center, Phyllis Finnen, helps a student by painting over an empty spot in the watercolor painting. Finnen helps each student and shows them how to improve their pieces through different techniques.

Students Felice Calhoon, left, and Joy Elmore, right, work on their watercolor and oil paintings during class on March 21.

Seward art instructor entertains students at Liberal Senior Center Tonya Loewen Editor For Phyllis Finnen, painting and teaching others to paint is second nature. She started painting when she was 9 years old, a mere 80 years ago. Finnen has been a Seward County Community College/ Area Technical School art instructor at the Liberal Senior Citizen Center for 15 years. She teaches watercolor and oil painting classes on Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday at the Senior Center, though the students feel the time is much more than a class. Finnen has been painting for 80 years and teaching for 55 years. Her love for painting began when she was 9 years old and won a scholarship for painting. Her mother “thought she would be a Michelangelo,” according to Finnen, and made her paint for an hour each day. Since then, Finnen hasn’t been able to put down the paintbrush. While living in Denver, Colo., Finnen began teaching art and painting classes. Forty years later, she continued that passion for the people of Liberal at the Senior Center, where she still is after 15 years.

“When you’re the teacher, you’re the boss,” said Finnen with a mischievous grin on her face. Finnen says the reason why she teaches is because she “loves to see a student progress and improve.” Finnen’s students unanimously agree that Finnen is a great teacher. “She knows how to deal with all kinds of people; she’s very patient for anyone,” said student Felice Calhoon. “I live for Thursdays. If I could come more, I would,” said Joy Elmore, a student that has attended all day painting on Thursday for two years. “I can’t wait for Thursdays to paint with Phyllis,” said Peggy Bell, who has attended classes for 14 years. While teaching the classes, the students make the most of their time together. “We settle all of the world’s problems during class,” Finnen said. “If there’s anything you would like to know, we’ll solve it all.” Talking isn’t the only thing they do while painting; they also sing. “Phyllis can sing about every song ever written,” said Calhoon. Finnen has 24 students throughout the week, and also teaches children during the summer. “The classes are non-formal. Everyone paints what they want, and I help them,” Finnen said. She currently teaches watercolor and oil painting, and has previously taught ceramics.

Students rush through the door to win prizes in the Student Life and Saints Bookstore Easter Egg Hunt on March 21, beginning at 11:45 a.m. and continuing until all of the eggs were found. Participants checked in the egg number in order to see if they would win a prize.

“Phyllis can take someone that can’t do anything and make them an artist,” said Michelle Stoddard, activity director at the Liberal Senior Center. “The program is excellent. I love to help them out in any way, but I stay out of Phyllis’ way and let her do her own thing,” said Speech Instructor and Humanities Division Chair Dale Doll. Doll has known Finnen for five years and almost immediately realized she was entertaining. “She’s hilarious,” Doll said. Since Finnen is 89 years old, she may have to retire soon from teaching at the Senior Center, though many will protest. “Nobody wants her to retire, she’s such an amazing artist and teacher,” said Stoddard. “She may be in a wheelchair, but she can still direct, talk and teach,” said Humanities Secretary Terri Barnes. “It’s a great thing for the students; she keeps them in line and they keep her going and busy.” When Finnen’s students found out that she signed to teach another year, they rejoiced. “I don’t know what we’re going to do when she decides to hang up her paintbrushes,” Doll said. “There’s just something special about her and her painting.”

Lady Saints softball player Stephanie Mark poses with her prizes from the egg hunt. Participants could win prizes such as candy bars and water bottles to printers and more. Crusader photos/ Giseelle Arredondo Crusader illustration/ Tonya Loewen

Mason Marshall, left, and Bladimir Guevara, right, check in their egg numbers for prizes.

Seward student Mason Jones shows his excitement as he collects his prize from the egg hunt.

Students quickly look through the backpacks in the Saints Bookstore to hopefully find eggs during the egg hunt.

ENTERTAINMENT

2B CRUSADER

Monday, April 1, 2013

CRUSADER 3B

Crusader photo/ Jose Medrano

Students who did not have challenges during certain time slots could compete for smaller prizes in the Union. One of the games played was stacking dice. Crusader photo/ Jose Medrano

Kenzie Thomason of Elkhart writes a news story during the news writing challenge. Thomason placed first in the journalism competition category, second place was awarded to Taylor Cameron of Rolla and Efren Rivero of Liberal placed third. Prizes were awarded to the top three places in the challenges.

Xtreme challenge attracts high school students Matthew Adkins News editor

Crusader photo/ Jakub Stepanovic

An area high school student works with an engine as part of one of the transportation challenges that took place at the technical school. Students competed for individual prizes and points for the overall high school competition. Elkhart won the overall competition this year and took home a traveling trophy.

More than 500 students from area high schools came to the Seward County Community College/Area Technical School’s campus Wednesday to compete in the Xtreme Challenge. The students competed in a variety of individual based challenges in 16 different categories for a chance to win prizes, but the ultimate goal was winning the new travelling trophy that goes to the school that scores the most points at the end of the day . The overall winners of the Xtreme Challenge were Rolla in third place, Meade in second and Elkhart in first place, marking the fourth year in a row that Elkhart has won the Xtreme Challenge. In addition to the winning schools, 10 other schools attended including Liberal, Stanton County, Hugoton, Garden City, Satanta and Sublette from Kansas. Out of state school such as Booker, Texas; Tyrone, Okla.; Turpin, Okla.;

and Balko, Okla. also attended the event. Students from Elkhart were ecstatic to win the competition once again. Marissa Wiggins, a senior from Elkhart was especially happy to win saying, “We won four years in a row, and I’m a senior, so that means all four of my years.” Although the competition between schools was present, the actual challenges are very individual based. Prizes were given to the top three contestants in each of the 16 categories. Each of the categories is based on courses available at SCCC/ATS including math/science, journalism, music, physical education and welding. Activities began a little later than expected at about 9:15 a.m. The challenges were held all over the campus according to their respective categories. High school students could be found outside taking pictures for the photography challenge, running the obstacle course in the gym, changing tires at the tech school and testing their grammar skills in the Hobble Academic Build-

ing. While there were many high school students walking around campus, there was a distinct lack of actual college students because many classes were cancelled because of the day’s events. However, there was little concern among students or staff about the cancellation of classes because the day was not wasted. The Xtreme Challenge is hosted by SCCC/ATS every year in order to recruit future students. Dr. Duane Dunn, college president, is very on board with the event as a recruiting tool. “Such a great deal to get all this exposure,” Dunn said. This year was the biggest Xtreme Challenge ever with nearly 500 high school students attending and the addition of several new categories of challenges. If the numbers are any indication of the success of Xtreme Challenge then SCCC/ATS will likely continue to see good enrollment numbers next year.

Crusader photo/ Jakub Stepanovic

Students write during a challenge that was part of the English category of Xtreme Challenge. Each one of the 16 categories is based on courses and programs available at SCCC/ATS. The challenges were held on the main campus, technical school and other buildings according to their respective categories.

For more photos of Xtreme Challenge and the winners scan this QR code or ﬁnd the Crusader’s Facebook page at:

Facebook.com/CrusaderNews Crusader photo/ Jose Medrano Crusader photo/ Jakub Stepanovic

A high school student replaces a tire during one of the transportation challenges. Some of the other categories at Xtreme Challenge that students could enter included drama, physical education, art, math and science, journalism, agriculture, business, cosmo, English, manufacturing, music and welding.

For one of the music challenges SCCC/ATS vocal music instructor Magda Silva would call out different music symbols and students would be required to write them down. This year was the biggest Xtreme challenge since it began with more than 500 high school students attending and the addition of several new categories of challenges. A new traveling trophy was introduced and was won by Elkhart High School, the trophy will return next year to be awarded again.

ENTERTAINMENT

2B CRUSADER

Monday, April 1, 2013

CRUSADER 3B

Crusader photo/ Jose Medrano

Students who did not have challenges during certain time slots could compete for smaller prizes in the Union. One of the games played was stacking dice. Crusader photo/ Jose Medrano

Xtreme challenge attracts high school students Matthew Adkins News editor

Crusader photo/ Jakub Stepanovic

For more photos of Xtreme Challenge and the winners scan this QR code or ﬁnd the Crusader’s Facebook page at:

Facebook.com/CrusaderNews Crusader photo/ Jose Medrano Crusader photo/ Jakub Stepanovic

4B CRUSADER

ENTERTAINMENT

Monday, April 1, 2013

Assassins

Michael A. Ask, playing Lee Harvey Oswald / Balladeer / Proprietor

‘Assassins’ prep for show Julia Frey Crusader staff

Lewis D. Mize, playing Leon Czolgosz

Juan Carlos Contreras, playing John Hinkley

Cast members are memorizing lines, costume designers are preparing costumes and the director is directing which means that the Seward County Community College/Area Technical School production of “Assassins” is nearing. The musical will be performed April 11 through April 13 at the Showcase Theater in the Shank Humanities building. Alison Bridget Chambers, drama and communications instructor and director of “Assassins,” stated that the practices are working out very well. “Everybody is working hard, focusing, and discovering their characters. The actors are acting like a team and everybody is working together and this is necessary for a successful show. The actors have to trust each other and particularly themselves,” Chambers said. Chambers also noticed a lot of improvements in the way the actors act. They are going forward with their work. It is a difficult play for them because the emotions they have to show are not easy to represent. The content of the play is very mature and edgy. This is a big challenge for the young students. For some of them, it is their first time to be in any kind of play or theater production.

The cast members are excited to be a part of the play and so is the president of Seward County Community College/ Area Technical School, Dr. Duane Dunn is very excited. He will be playing the role of president Gerald Ford. The last time Dr. Dunn acted in a play was when he was in high school. Dr. Dunn described his character as a humble and quiet leader. Ford was really liked by the people and he had a big heart and passion for his country. He liked Ford and what he did for his country. Ford was the President of the United States when the Vietnam War ended in 1975. Dr. Dunn enjoys seeing his students doing a great job, and he is proud of the play production. He saw a lot of talent and he can’t wait until the beginning of the play in April. The main characters are the assassins Lee Harvey Oswald, played by Michael A. Ask, and John Wilkes Booth, played by Francisco Morales. Seven other assassins in the play are Sarah Jane Moore, Leon Czolgosz, Sam Byck, Lynette Fromme, John Hinkley, Guiseppe Zangara and Charles Guiteau. Chambers also stated that the play should make the audience “reexamine what it means to be an American and to question their roles in the society.”

‘Assassins’ Show dates • Thursday, April 11 • • Friday, April 12 • • Saturday, April 13 • Colby Copel, onstage with the ensemble

Crusader photos/Jakub Stepanovic