Students style the homeless Lisa Harris Staff Writer Every Saturday, between 200 and 300 homeless individuals find relief from hunger at Jesus Burger, located at 2101 E. Marshall Ave. in Longview. Every third weekend of the month, the trip comes with a free haircut, thanks to KC cosmetology instructor Wesley Brasher and his students.
As buses bring in those living on the highways, near the byways, under bridges and in shelters, the KC students gear up with clippers and combs to hone their skills. Brasher said they usually have between four and nine volunteers from the KC Cosmetology classes on hand to cut hair for between 30 to 50 clients. Despite not having a salon set-up with mirrors and shampoo bowls,
Homelessness in the United States dropped from
610,042
the students have effectively improvised over the past year of cutting hair outside. “The clients tell us they love the haircut, even though they never see a mirror,” said Paige Williams, KC cosmetology student. “They are so grateful and have such appreciation.” First-time participants Savannah Payne, Longview freshman, and Haley Lockhart, Kilgore freshman, See COSMETOLOGY, on Page 3
in 2013, to
564,708
in 2015 according to endhomelessness.org
Lisa Harris / THE FLARE
Cosmetology students train by giving free haircuts to people in the homeless community in Longview at the Jesus Burger event at the former Elks Lodge on Highway 80.
The Flare
Friday, February 24, 2017 Vol. 80 No. 15 Serving Kilgore College since 1936
Golden Gloves
Boxer fights in the ring, influenced by grandmother Living The Dream: Part three of a series
“Everyone has
a
plan
until they get hit... Yeah, I’m a little banged up but at the end of the day that’s what we train for.” GABRIEL WADE & KAITLIN MITCHELL Staff Writers
H
Cheyanne Huntsman / THE FLARE
Tyreick Lewis, Longview freshman and American Honors student, bows up to another battle while brandishing a medal he won at the Golden Gloves tournament hosted at the Longview Exhibit Center on Feb. 2-4 in Longview.
ands sweating from the warmth inside of his gloves, he fidgets his fingers the tiniest bit just to make it more comfortable. The crowd surrounding the ring becomes drowned out and the noise inside of his head becomes more of a flowing noise of the voices of his grandmother and coach while he concentrates on his opponent. The bell dings and everything in the train of thought is lost. Tyreick Lewis, Longview freshman, went head to head in his first match as part of the All Comers Division and won on Feb. 2 at the 77th annual Golden Gloves boxing tournament. It was a tough fight for Lewis; the 18-year-old had only sparred before. He won the first match and got hurt in the second; however, he still medaled as a novice. “Everyone has a plan until they get hit,” Lewis said. “It’s a great feeling when you come out of that situation; having someone try to beat you up and push you down, and you come out of it victorious. Yeah, I’m a little banged up but at the end of the day that’s what we train for.” Lewis trains Monday through Thursday and occasionally on Saturdays before the tournament at the East Texas Boxing Club in Longview. See BOXER, on Page 3
KCPD reports campus crime, reward for conviction Sarah Redford Staff Writer n 02/01/2017 - CRIMINAL TRESPASS WARNING KCPD officers received a phone call advising that males were planning on staying in a female room located at the Quads residence halls. They arrived on the scene and escorted two males out of the room. One was a student who received a loitering citation, the other, not a student, was given a CT Warning and was given a courtesy ride to the nearby Whataburger. n 02/03/2017 – STUDENT CODE OF CONDUCT INFRACTION
A KC student came to KCPD to report another KC student cursing at her in class and after the class. n 02/06/2017 – WELFARE CONCERN Sgt. Sammy Wagner was assigned to patrol. He was contacted by a complainant in reference to a welfare concern. n 02/07/2017 – INFORMATION REPORT A fire alarm went off in the Business Administration Building. KCPD and KFD responded and KFD determined it was a false alarm. n 02/08/2017 – AUTO ACCIDENT Houston Street. n 02/08/2017 –
INFORMATION REPORT Female student felt uncomfortable around male student. n 02/08/2017 – LOST PROPERTY Student lost backpack with computer in it. Student is unaware if it has been stolen or not. n 02/08/2017 – CRIMINAL MISCHIEF A $250 reward is being offered for the arrest and conviction of the person who threw a piece of brick through the Trinity Valley Community College bus window, breaking the side back window while the bus was parked behind Masters Gym for the men’s basketball game.
n 02/09/2017 – LOST PROPERTY A student lost a cell phone and is unaware if it has been stolen or not. n 02/09/2017 – DISTURBANCE There was a reported altercation between students at the Randolph C. Watson Library. n 02/11/2017 – STUDENT CODE OF CONDUCT INFRACTION Found a student asleep in vehicle in Quads parking lot at night. n 02/12/2017 – ALARM Responded to a fire alarm call at 800 Ross. n 02/13/2017 – MEDICAL EMERGENCY Medical emergency at the
PAGE T WO THIS WEEK By the numbers
18
n 18 high schools and about 500 high school students attended the Gussie Nell Dance Classic on February 18. All money raised went toward Rangerette scholarships.
320
Anne Dean Turk Fine Arts Building n 02/13/2017 – At approximately 6:40 p.m. an officer was called to the Longview North Building’s west parking lot in reference to found property. n 02/14/2017 – CRIMINAL MISCHIEF At approximately 8:20 a.m., a KC student came by KCPD-Longview to report criminal mischief done to her vehicle while parked on KC’s property. n 02/14/2017 – CRIMINAL MISCHIEF At approximately 10 a.m., a veteran’s service dog was injured by someone driving a white Chevrolet Camaro. The service animal was hit
hard enough to throw the animal back into the owner. The driver stopped and looked behind him before leaving the scene. The driver did not stop and check on the animal of the owner. As of press time, there are no suspects in the injury to the service dog. If you have information or would like to report an item of concern, call 903983-8650. Phone lines are open 24/7. Information gathered from the Kilgore College Police Department
THE FLARE FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 24, 2017 n 320 Students earning a 3.5 to 3.99 grade point average and enrolled in at least 12 credit hours have been named to the Dean’s list.
1989
n On this day in 1989 a 150-million-year-old fossil egg (oldest dinosaur embryo) was found.
Check theflareonline.com for a full calendar activities, or go to twitter.com/theflareonline for live updates
FACE
Relay Rangers sell potatoes Lisa Harris Staff Writer The KC Relay Rangers team are gearing up for the 15th annual potato bake. Jennifer Quine and Jeannie Butler are cocaptains of the event. “It’s about cancer awareness, education and fundraising,” Quine said. Place your orders by noon Monday Feb. 27. For tickets, contact Jennifer Quine or Jeannie Butler at 903-987-3892 or jquine@kilgore.edu. The KC Relay Rangers will be delivered the spuds from 11 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. on Friday March 3. Contact Quine for details on the Relay for Life walk held on April 29th. The American Cancer Society Relay for Life has been going strong since 1985, with over 5,200 communities and 20 countries raising money for the fight for cancer victims while honoring survivors and their caretakers. Last year the KC Relay Rangers won 2nd place locally, raising a total of $5,718, earning the team gold status with a trophy and an appreciation certificate. Each member can also raise money on their own, contributing to the cause. The theme this year is the same as last year, “Paint Kilgore Purple.” The KC Relay Rangers also won the spirit award and trophy last year and hope to win again this year. Last year they sold just under 200 spuds. The goal for this year is 300. All supplies for the potato bake are donated by the KC cafeteria, Aramark food services. This means 100 percent of the proceeds go to the American Cancer Society Relay for life fund. The desserts are donated by team members. The fundraiser hits home with Quine with her sister being a cancer survivor she knows first-hand what the ACS can do. Watching her sister take the first lap with the other survivors in the walk was a heartfelt moment of love and gratitude she said. “The support and camaraderie that is given to this organization is inspirational, to see the community come together to help fight cancer” Quine said. Potatoes are $8 and gets you a lunch to enjoy while knowing you have joined the fight to beat cancer.
IN THE CROWD
Club news Lonnie Ross Staff Writer
Kami Pack
Yosef Ibitayo / THE FLARE
Hometown: Longview Classification: sophomore Age: 20 What would you say are your most unique qualities? My most unique quality would be that I’m naturally bubbly and seem to connect well with others. I also tend to put others first frequently. What is your dream career? My dream career is to act on a long-running sitcom! My more feasible dream career is to be a VP loan officer at a wellestablished bank. If you could have lunch with anyone living or deceased, who would it be? If I could have lunch with anyone it would be Ben Shapiro. The way he communicates is incredible. If you had to live without one of your five senses, which one would it be and why? If I had to live without one of my five senses it would probably be taste, I’m a picky eater!
What makes you feel accomplished? The thing that makes me feel the most accomplished would be having someone tell me I inspired them…Whether it be motivating them to go after their dreams, or helping them realize the potential inside themselves. What is your philosophy in life? Be kind; Everyone deserves at least one act of kindness shown to them. What inspired you to choose your major? I love math and want to be able to afford pushing my future children toward whatever dream they might have. How would you describe yourself in five words or less? Five words to describe myself would be; extroverted, peoplepleaser, kind, impatient and self-critical.
Wesley Foundation n The Wesley Foundation’s Ash Wednesday service will be 10:30 a.m. – 1 p.m. on March 1. Ash Wednesday is the first day of Lent, the season in the Christian year leading up to Easter. On Ash Wednesday there will be an opportunity for people to have ashes imposed. Band n The Wind Symphony’s first performance will be 7:30 p.m. on Thursday, March 2 in Dodson Auditorium. There is no charge on any band concerts and everyone is invited to attend. Art Club n The Art Club will meet on Friday, March 3 to discuss upcoming events: Spring Break Plans, UT Tyler’s Art Day and the Dallas Art Trip. If you’re interested, please contact Mrs. Fox-Hearne at cfoxhearne@kilgore.edu or Mr. Kitchen at lkitchen@kilgore.edu. Also, the Art Club is selling various snacks in the classrooms of Mr. Kitchen, Mrs. Fox-Hearne and Mr. Coy Lothrop during class times. The cost is up to $1. PTK n An Orientation Meeting for potential new members is scheduled for 5:15 p.m. on Monday, Feb. 27 in Communication/Automotive Building, Room 104. n PTK is collecting a wide variety of school supplies to bring to Corpus Christi for the Texas Regional Convention on March 9-11. If you would like to donate supplies or cash, please present supplies to an officer or bring to the adviser, Michele Daniels, in CA 104. For a complete supply list, please see: http://flourbluffschools. net/school-supply-list/ PTK is also collecting aluminum pull-tabs and plastic bottle caps for PTK student scholarships.
NEWS
THE FLARE FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 24, 2017
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3
COSMETOLOGY: Taking care of neighbors one shave at a time at Jesus Burger From Page 1
Lisa Harris / THE FLARE
Paige Williams shaves Ronnie Cook’s beard at Jesus Burger.
BOXER: Lewis strives to improve himself From Page 1 “I walked in the first day, my grandma introduced me to everyone, and they took me in with open arms” Lewis said. “They saw I wanted to box and I’ve been training with the Longview Boxing Club ever since.” His workouts consist of a warm up (jumping jacks, arm rolls, rocking chairs and stretching), cardio (running, conditioning, three rounds of heavy bags and jump rope) and an ending session where he lifts weights or works on improving his speed and focus. Lewis’ grandmother, who is a regular
at the gym, played a big role in his drive to succeed. “Every time I fight I hear her and then I hear my coach,” Lewis said. “She kind of developed me as a young man by just giving me knowledge of what’s right and wrong and the ins and outs of life.” Lewis also found inspiration in the movie Creed. Similar to that of the main character, he hopes that his past will not define him and uses boxing as an outlet to improve himself. “At the time, I saw it, I was going through a lot of struggles on my own,” Lewis said. “I watched it in a different sense. I wasn’t watching it to see him
fight somebody, but to see how he handled the situations he was in and how he built upon the chances he was given.” Unlike the boxers in Creed however, Lewis has no plans to become a professional. “I would love to make it to the Olympics,” said the History Major and Honors student. “I know it’s a far shot because there’s been dudes that have been sparring since they were five or six years old and they still don’t make it, but that’s my dream.”
agreed they would, “be back to do it again.” Adam Smith, KC Cosmetology graduate, is also a regular contributor to the haircut program. He is currently employed at Bernardo’s Hair Salon, which was named the number one barbershop in town by Longview’s Locals Love Us magazine in 2017. He too was once homeless, spending 20 years of his life hooked on drugs. He has been clean and sober for the last five years and uses his second chance to, “do the Lord’s work,” he said. Jesus Burger came about when Gary Don Holley, a man often seen carrying a cross up and down U.S. Highway 80 in Longview, partnered with Perkins Partner Ministry and “Shade Tree” Ministry to run a licensed food kitchen to feed the homeless. Six years ago, he began the orchestration of church groups and volunteers to come together and share the love of Jesus. Contributors include: • The “Bread of Life” Assembly of God in Gladewater and Panera Bread of Longview – bread; • Perkins Partner Ministrymeat; • Super One – desserts; • Genpak Manufacturing to-go boxes. As great as the draw for food might be, the real
service is found in helping people, said Steve, one of the event’s organizers. Joe McNary has been attending Jesus Burger since the beginning, and has been listening to the weekly messages. He credits God for his current remission of stage four cancer. “I’m blessed and feeling great,” he said. He was once a drug dealer, but after turning his life around, he said, “I’m impressed when I see people I used to deal to be changed by God.” One sign of miraculous blessing is the fact it has never rained on a Jesus Burger event. There’s no point in checking the weather, observers have pointed out, because the storms stay across the street. “We have literally watched the storm move around us, as if the hand of God is protecting us,” said Scott, one of the volunteers. Jesus Burger found its name from a man enjoying a meal. “This isn’t just a burger, it’s a JESUS BURGER.” The outreach ministry has been picked up by other passersby and now reaches as far as New York, Florida and North Carolina; and as close by as Gilmer, Big Sandy and Gun Barrel City. For more information, or to find ways to volunteer, contact Brasher at 903-2362015.
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THE FLARE FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 24, 2017
SPORTS
Basketball team splits last double-header of the season
Lady Rangers finish strong at home, KC Men get smoked by Paris Dragons WARREN THOMAS Staff Writer The Lady Rangers pulled out a nail-biting 81-76 win Wednesday night against the Paris Junior College Lady Dragons as the Lady Rangers’ sophomores were recognized at their last home game. The game was tied at 76 until Lyrik Williams, Crystal, Minn. sophomore, made a lay up while getting fouled with 10 seconds left in the game. She then made the free throw to cap off her 16-point night. Williams also added nine rebounds and six assists. Jade Thurmon, Ferris freshman, was the game’s leading scorer and added four rebounds. Alexus Moore, Stony Point freshman, scored 14 points in a solid birthday performance. The Lady Rangers are now 18-8 overall and 9-7 in conference. The Rangers took a tough 83-70 loss in the doubleheader as part of a sevengame losing streak. Chad Bowie, Houston freshman, and Cheikh Diallo, Senegal, Africa, sophomore, both scored 19 points. Bowie added five rebounds and assists. Diallo made five three-pointers and was efficient shooting five-foreight from downtown. Ndene Gueye, Senegal, Africa, sophomore, had a doubledouble scoring 13 points and grabbing 13 rebounds. The Rangers are now 12-14 overall; 3-13 in conference.
Photos by Tina Marie Reed / THE FLARE
Above: Lyrik Williams, 4, aims to score against Paris Junior College during the women’s game. The Lady Rangers will join the men’s team for a double-header at Panola College starting at 2 p.m. this Saturday. They will be at Angelina College in Lufkin at 5 p.m. Wednesday, March 1. Both the women and men will finish the season with a rematch against Trinity Valley at 2 and 4 p.m. respectively, on Saturday, March 4, in Athens. Left: Ndene Gueye, 12, attempts a dunk in Wednesday night’s game against Paris Junior College. The Rangers will play Panola Junior College at 4 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 25 in Carthage and will return home for their sophomore night at 7 p.m. Wednesday, March 1, against Navarro College.
Bossier Parish puts up cavalier effort against KC teams, Feb. 18 WARREN THOMAS Staff Writer The Lady Rangers returned to the floor strong on Saturday, Feb. 18, with an 81-57 blowout against Bossier Parish Community College Lady Cavaliers. The Lady Rangers were dominate throughout the game, leading by as many as 31
points at times. Richelle Velez, Brazoswood freshman, led the Lady Rangers in scoring with 18 points. Lyrik Williams, Crystal, Minnesota, sophomore turned in a doubledouble with 17 points and 11 rebounds. Jade Thurmon, Ferris freshman, scored 16 points and grabbed six rebounds in the first
half. Also, Danielle Meador, Corpus Christi freshman, led the team with 12 rebounds and chipped in six assists and seven points. The Rangers took a tough 90-88 loss Saturday against the Bossier Parish Community College Cavaliers. The game was back and forth throughout, with the
lead changing 18 times. But the Rangers couldn’t pull out a win and dropped their sixth straight game. Chad Bowie, Houston freshman, led the Rangers in scoring with 22 points and almost notched a double-double with nine assists. Ndene Gueye, Senegal, Africa, sophomore who missed the last
few games with an injury, made a strong personal comeback, scoring 18 points and grabbing eight rebounds. Jamar Sandifer, Dallas freshman, and Cheikh Fall, Senegal, Africa, sophomore, both scored in the double figures with 15 and 10 respectively.
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SPORTS
THE FLARE FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 24, 2017
PAGE
5
The KC Rangers softball team cheers on their teammates as they work their way through the batting lineup against the Cisco Community College Lady Wranglers.
Rangers close KC Shootout tournament with win T
Photos by Tina Marie Reed
he Rangers closed out play in the KC Shootout with an 11-3 win over Cisco last Sunday at The Ballpark at KC Commons. They will bring a 9-9 record with them as they enter the Region XIV Crossover Tournament in Beaumont this weekend. Kilgore will face Laredo and Galveston on Friday, Butler and Alvin on Saturday, and Blinn and Lamar State on Sunday. They will return home to open conference play against Navarro at 1 and 3 p.m. Saturday, March 4, at the KC Commons.
Tina Marie Reed / THE FLARE
Taylor Christopher, Garrison freshman, tosses a pitch against a Cisco batter during this weekend’s KC Shootout at the Ballpark at KC Commons.
#1 - Kaitlyn Stebelton: Outfielder At Bats: 61 Base on balls: 4 Hits: 20 Singles: 17 Doubles: 1 Triples: 2 RBIs: 10 Runs scored: 14 Strikeouts: 8 Batting Avg. .328 #2 - Laci Hambalek: Midfielder/Catcher At Bats: 44 Base on balls: 3 Hits: 16 Singles: 1 Doubles: 4 Triples: 1 HR: 3 RBIs: 10 Runs scored: 14 Strikeouts: 14 Batting Avg. .364 #3 - Kristen Terry: Second base/Third base At Bats: 7 Hits: 2 Singles: 2 Runs scored: 1 Strikeouts: 2
Batting Avg. .286 #4 - Hannah Carpenter: Midfielder At Bats: 56 Base on balls: 4 Hits: 25 Singles: 17 Doubles: 5 Triples: 1 HR: 2 RBIs: 16 Runs scored: 17 Strikeouts: 6 Batting Avg .446
Catcher Jo Rivera, Richmond sophomore, singles off a pitch against Murray College on Sunday.
Rangers Softball Stats
RBIs: 7 Runs scored: 10 Strikeouts: 14
Batting Avg .294 #9 - Cailon Palmer: Outfielder Runs scored: 5 #12 - Sarah Valdez: Outfielder At Bats: 1 Runs scored: 3 Strikeouts: 1
#5 - Avery Hooks: Third base; midfielder At Bats: 19 Base on balls: 1 Hits: 3 Singles: 3 RBIs: 1 Runs scored: 1 Strikeouts: 3 Batting Avg .158
#14 - Taylor Christopher: Midfielder/catcher/pitcher At Bats: 30 Base on balls: 3 Hits: 10 Singles: 10 RBIs: 5 Runs scored: 6 Strikeouts: 2 Batting Avg .333
#7 - Manda Wilmoth: Outfielder At Bats: 51 Base on balls: 8 Hits: 15 Singles: 12 Doubles: 3
#16 - Amber Williams: Third base At Bats: 46 Base on balls: 6 Hits: 13 Singles: 8 Doubles: 2
HR: 3 RBIs: 14 Runs scored: 11 Strikeouts: 11 Batting Avg .283
#19 - Brianna Davis: First base At Bats: 52 Base on balls: 4 Hits: 13 Singles: 6 Doubles: 6 HR: 1 RBIs: 12 Runs scored: 11 Strikeouts: 12 Batting Avg. 250 #21 - Shelby Edwards: Catcher/Third base At Bats: 35 Base on balls: 3 Hits: 11 Singles: 8 Doubles: 3 RBIs: 4 Runs scored: 2 Strikeouts:3 Batting Avg .314 #23 - Kaylie Bush: First base At Bats: 24 Base on balls: 4 Hits: 5
Singles: 3 Doubles: 1 HR: 1 RBIs: 5 Runs scored: 3 Strikeouts: 1 Batting Avg .208 #24 - Jo Rivera: Catcher At Bats: 47 Base on balls: 12 Hits: 20 Singles: 15 Doubles: 3 Triples: 1 HR:: 1 RBIs: 12 Runs scored: 14 Strikeouts: 4 Batting Avg.426 #8 - Katy Worrell: Pitcher Innings pitched: 54 Games pitched: 9 Wins: 6 Losses: 3 Hits allowed: 60 Runs allowed: 38 Strikeouts: 35 Earned Run Average: 3.889 #13-Adriana Mosley: Pitcher Innings pitched: 10.2 Games pitched: 5 Wins:1
Losses:3 Hits allowed: 24 Runs allowed:24 Strikeouts: 4 Earned Run Average:13.125 #14 - Taylor Christopher Innings pitched: 17.0 Games pitched: 6 Wins:1 Losses: 1 Hits allowed: 21 Runs allowed: 17 Strikeouts: 9 Earned Run Average:4.529 #22 - Lashanda Jones: Pitcher Innings pitched: 18.1 Games pitched: 5 Wins: 1 Losses: 1 Hits allowed: 23 Runs allowed: 21 Strikeouts: 9 Earned Run Average:4.529 #25 - Sierra Phillips: Pitcher Innings pitched:11 Games pitched: 7 Losses:1 Hits allowed:15 Runs allowed:18 Strikeouts:2 Earned Run Average:8.273
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THE FLARE FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 24, 2017
E N T E R TA I N M E N T
COMMENTARY
International student inspired by African heroes FUNGAI PETA Staff Writer
B
lack history month is a famous month celebrated here in America, but as an African who migrated from Zimbabwe, the cultural celebration has had a great impact on me. I have come to realize that even in Africa we tend to celebrate this time, just in a different form and fashion. There are so many influential people who made Africa what it is today. Some of the most celebrated heroes who inspired me to be who I am are Nelson Mandela and Desmond Mpilo Tutu. Nelson Mandela was a former activist and president of South Africa. He sacrificed 27 years of his life to bring an end to apartheid and he is an icon also known for his advocacy on human rights. Just like Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., Mandela led a peaceful protest against the white minority. He stood up for his people when the whites tried to bribe him to stop his protest against the oppression, and that landed him behind bars for nearly 30 years. During his incarceration, Mandela continued with his hope and faith by reading books, attending university by correspondence and teaching other fellow inmates. While he was confined, Nelson Mandela earned a bachelor’s of law degree from the University of London. His incarceration did not stop his influence on the outside world. While incarcerated, he also drafted his autobiography, “Long Walk to Freedom,” which was published five years after his release. After 27 years, he was released from prison in 1994 and became the first black president of South Africa. Mandela has inspired so many people, including me, because he stood up for what he believed. He’s precious to the oppressed Africans who he led to freedom. As a president, Mandela introduced social and economic programs that helped improve the living standards of black South Africans who had lived under apartheid for so many years. He also brought people of all races together, ending the racial tension between blacks and whites in Africa. Even after leaving office, Mandela continued his legacy; he began many organizations which include the Nelson Mandela Foundation and the Elders Program that helps ease human suffering and advocates
people to help the elderly. The AIDS pandemic was ignored for years in Africa. People used to ignore the severity of the disease but after Mandela saw this, he became a vocal advocate of AIDS awareness and treatment programs. Mandela died on Dec. 5 2013 after a battle with a respiratory infection. His legacy lives on as he has inspired so many people. This led to the production of the movie “Long Walk to Freedom.” The movie was so popular it made it to the cinema. Mandela is a hero and legend whose legacy will live forever. Desmond Mpilo Tutu is another role model of mine. He is an African icon of endurance and perseverance. Tutu was born Oct. 7, 1931 in Kleksdorp, South Africa. Tutu grew up in South Africa under segregation and oppression, but that didn’t stop him from becoming one of the most inspiring and educated youth of his time. Growing up, he had a passion for reading novels. He graduated with a bachelor’s degree from University of South Africa in 1954. After graduating he became an English and history teacher, teaching black schools and helping unfortunate kids restore their pride. Bishop Tutu worked tirelessly to restore the African pride that had been taken away by apartheid. In 1984, Tutu was awarded with a Nobel Peace Prize for his concerns with democracy, human dignity and fraternity. Him receiving the Nobel transformed the apartheid movement into an international issue and the whole world began sympathizing and helping to liberate South Africa. In 1985 he became the first black bishop for South Africa; before this, in 1987 Tutu was named the president of all African conference churches. He used the word of God to liberate and enlighten the black majority on freedom. After South Africa obtained its independence in 1994, newly elected president, Nelson Mandela appointed Desmond Tutu as the head of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission. Even today Tutu continues to advocate against inequality, social injustice and racial discrimination, also standing up for the fight against AIDS, an epidemic that has torn apart South Africa, a country with the highest per capita of AIDS victims in the world. Desmond Tutu is now 85 years old and lives in South Africa where he continues his hard work on behalf of Africa.
?
Cat
Yoga
According to the ASPCA, approximately 7.6 million companion animals enter animal shelters nationwide every year. Each year, approximately 2.7 million animals are euthanized. One organization in Longview has an idea: Cat Yoga. MEAGHAN MORTON Executive Editor
F
or those with allergies to fur, cat yoga might be a bit of a stretch, but for those without, the Longview Animal Care and Adoption Center is hosting “Cat-urday” yoga from 9:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, March 4. Karen Bonds, instructor at Longview Yoga, will teach a free beginning yoga class surrounded by cats from the adoption center. “Our ultimate goal is for animals to get adopted,” said Jacquelyn Reynolds, Volunteer Coordinator. The center is planning on making the event monthly and possibly allowing people to bring their animals and including dogs as well. “We saw a lot of major cities doing it,” Reynolds said. “We are trying to think outside of the box and trying to end the stigma behind shelters. A lot of
people think it is sad, but we really try to make it a positive atmosphere.” Another event the LACAC has hosted was the “Home for the Holiday” dog house build. The Center called on craftsmen to build elaborate doghouses and sold raffle tickets to win them. The center earned around $13,000 on ticket sales. The Center opened July 1, 2016 and has been accepting abandoned animals from Longview and other Gregg County areas since. It is a $50 fee to adopt one of the animals from the Center; the fee includes the animal being spayed or neutered, vaccinated and microchipped. So, pack up your yoga mats and give cat yoga a chance, but if allergies do seem to be a problem, donations will be accepted to go toward the LACAC. For more information, visit the center’s Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/ friendsofLACAC/
Keep up with the Oscars this Sunday. The 89th annual event recognizes the best in movie making.
OPINION
THE FLARE FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 24, 2017
PAGE
Rising costs drain accounts
Photo illustration by Grant Worley / THE FLARE
OUR VIEW
Price of college continues to take toll on students’ wallets
I
t’s not news to anyone that college has become increasingly expensive over the years. According to the think tank, the American Enterprise Institute, tuition has gone up 559 percent in the last three decades and textbook prices have also risen by a staggering 812 percentage in the same period of time. What could possibly lead to such an incredible increase? Inflation? Publishing and shipping costs? Is the KC bookstore really a front for the Mafia? Ok that last one was a joke; the KC Bookstore has no bearing on the cost of our textbooks and are just as subject to the circumstances behind prices as the students. While publishing and shipping costs have also increased over time for all books, the cost for textbooks exceeds the cost for recreational books by a wide margin. The bottom line is that we may now be in the middle of an unsustainable “higher education bubble.” In a financial bubble, assets like houses are sometimes purchased to be resold at a higher price, and this can produce rapidly escalating prices as people speculate on future pricing; eventually causing a spiral that can provoke abrupt selling of the assets and resulting in another abrupt collapse in price. Because the asset acquired through college attendance is a higher education and cannot be sold, there is no similar factor that would cause a collapse in the value of existing degrees. However, much like the housing bubble in the last decade, the higher education bubble is a product of cheap credit coupled with popular expectations of increasing returns
7
on investment. In the case of higher education, this means tuition prices increasing even as the supply of college graduates in many fields of study exceeds the demand for their skills. We also have to consider tuition and textbook price increases have exceeded the cost of living increases and family income growth during the same period. There is no federal or state standard that colleges have to abide by in terms of selecting books for specific classes. It is actually left to the discretion of each instructor to decide the books that students will need for their classes. Many colleges, KC included, have found ways to help combat these factors with the campus allowing the students a choice in buying a textbook online as opposed to the bookstore or buying a used book at a decreased cost. Congress actually changed the law so that colleges must show the price difference of the textbooks their classes require between online and on campus stores as a way for students to have easier access to different options. The KC Bookstore also allows for the student to return the book for a “buyback,” so long as the book is in an acceptable condition upon return. These may be temporary fixes to the bigger issue; however, the prices for both tuition and textbooks show no signs of slowing down anytime soon. While many share and understand higher education is important, the costs of achieving that goal may soon exceed the means of the average person.
YOUR VIEW Where do you purchase your textbooks and why?
“Kilgore College Bookstore. It’s convenient.” Allison Eigsti Shawnee, Kansas sophomore
“I purchase my textbooks at the public library and Kilgore College because they have all the books that spark my interest and they are great with being social.” Everette Abston Longview freshman
“The Kilgore Bookstore because it is most convenient for me while on campus.” Truevenio Waters Gilmer sophomore
“From the KC Bookstore because it is close and efficient.” Ty Emgledowl Tatum freshman Photos by Lisa Harris / THE FLARE
Lose your fake friends, find your real friends O
ne of the most c h a l l e n g i n g obstacles I had growing up was being able to distinguish genuine friendships from fake friendships. I’ve given too many people too many chances, and ended up being burned in the end. Several of these circumstances could’ve been solved if I had simply stood up for myself. In 2017 I made a New Year’s resolution to be less docile. Passivity has been one of the biggest burdens in life, and I’m determined to put that to rest. In this past year I have lost two friends, which has made me realize how toxic they really were in my life. We shared tears, laughs, and many great adventures throughout friendships, but
the bonds I had built ended up being very much onesided. I had one friend admit to not caring about me, she just ALLISON e n j o y e d TALIAFERRO Staff Writer using me and one friend who completely shut me out because she was moving away to college and didn’t want to deal with me anymore; however, these friendships were not a waste of time. Having people like them in my life has made me grow and flourish as a person and be more aware of a person’s intentions. It also revealed to me the person I never wanted to become. Listen to your parents
The Flare
when they question if your friend is genuine. Most of the time they are able to spot your fake friends before you are. Do not place your trust in everyone you meet. Believe it or not, not everyone is as loyal as you. Most of the time, the information you shared with said “friend,” won’t stay between the two of you. There are friends you can have a great time with, without revealing anything personal about yourself too. Upon losing friends this past year, I’ve met some of the most genuine friends I’ve ever had. Having people in my life who showed me the true meaning of a friend was a bit of a culture shock. it was something I had never really had. The people in my life now go out of their way to help me and show me
that they care and I do the same for them. If there was ever any sort of conflict, I know our trust in each other is strong enough to work through it. The friendships I have now are the ones I’m terrified of losing. I owe it to the two friends who decided I wasn’t good enough to keep around. If they wanted me to write kindly about them, they should’ve behaved accordingly. Those two friends have since realized what they lost. The friend who completely shut me out because she was moving away to college and didn’t want to deal with me anymore, reached out to me a few weeks ago trying to take me out dinner. I accomplished the impossible. I stood up to the girl who had sent me an apology text message so long
VOL. 80, NO.15 n Friday, February 24, 2017 Copyright 2015, The Flare. All rights reserved.
2013 Sweepstakes Winner, Texas Intercollegiate Press Association • 2014 Sweepstakes Winner, Texas Community College Journalism Association Spring 2012 Gold Crown, Columbia Scholastic Press Association • 2012 First Place, Texas Associated Press Managing Editors
PHOTO ADVISER O. Rufus Lovett ADVISER Rachel Stallard
EXECUTIVE EDITOR Meaghan Morton STAFF WRITERS Fungai Peta, Lisa Harris, Yosef Ibitayo, Kaitlin Mitchell, Sarah Redford, Lonnie Ross, Timothy Stuckey, Allison Taliaferro, Gabriel Wade, Alexia McGee,Whitney Ervin, Da’Jah Thompson, Warren Thomas and Yasmine Wilson PHOTOGRAPHERS Max Cervantes, Lisa Harris, Cheyanne Huntsman, Yosef Ibitayo, Tiffany Johnson, Hailey Pennington, Sarah Redford, Tina Marie Reed and Grant Worley
I had to click on it to expand, degrading my character and doubting my ability to be courageous. I told her I did not feel comfortable sitting across from someone who had such mean things to say about me. The friend who admitted to not caring about me has been very quiet. We haven’t spoken since the day she tried to convince me she didn’t mean it when she said she “didn’t care about me,” but I’m not open-minded to having a friendship with someone who only needed me as someone to fall back on because her boyfriend was her only other friend at the time. It was evident especially after she started dating her boyfriend, that she really didn’t care about me. I forgive them of course,
and if they really needed me I’d be there for them, but my time without them has been so much more fulfilling than it was when I was friends with them. They’ve missed out on the last eight months of my life, and I’ve missed out on the last eight months of theirs. I still care and think about them often, but I‘m forever grateful that these women have led me to true friendship. I’m not bitter and I wish them well, and I hope my compassion, empathy and the support I showed them throughout the duration of our friendship has helped them grow as people als0. Allison is a Journalism Major from White oak
LETTERS
THE FLARE welcomes any letter to the editor and encourages all readers to use this as a sounding board to express thoughts and opinions on current campus-related topics. We also welcome news or feature ideas. Due to space limitations, letters should be as concise as possible and may still be edited for space. Letters must be signed and include an address and telephone number so that we can verify their authenticity. Letters should be delivered to the newsroom in Communications-Automotive Building, Room 125, mailed to The Flare, 1100 Broadway, Kilgore TX 75662 or emailed to: kc_flare@yahoo.com
DISCLAIMER
THE FLARE is the student newspaper of Kilgore College and is published every Friday by the journalism department, except during examination periods and vacations. First copy is free, subsequent copies are available for 50 cents. THE FLARE is a member of the Texas Community College Journalism Association and the Texas Intercollegiate Press Association. All people holding editorial staff positions are Kilgore College journalism students. Comments and views expressed in THE FLARE reflect the thoughts of the individual writers, and do not necessarily reflect the beliefs or opinions of other students, staff members, faculty members, administrative officers or the Board of Trustees.
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THE FLARE FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 24, 2017
F E AT U R E
Basketball pink out Lady Rangers support cancer research The Kilgore College Lady Rangers hosted their annual “Cancer Awareness Game” Wednesday, Feb. 22, to raise funds for the American Cancer Society. The team raised $1,062 with money taken at the gate, including donations, and will be sent to support cancer research. “We play for those who are
fighting, have fought and who have lost,” said head coach Anna Nimz. “We all have our own ‘heroes’ who we fight for. Please help us make a difference.” The women donned pink during this game and played with a pink basketball to visually show their support. Before the game was a sophomore presentation,
celebrating the women’s last home game of the season. The halftime entertainment featured a performance by the Rangerette Swingsters and a 5-on-5 basketball game featuring members of the KC Dance Club. For more statistics on the men and women’s games, turn to Page 4.
Timothy Stuckey / THE FLARE
The Rangerette Swingsters cheer and laugh while watching the KC Dance Club compete in a game of basketball.
1,062
Tina Marie Reed / THE FLARE
Jade Thurmon, Ferris freshman, goes up for the shot.
Timothy Stuckey / THE FLARE
Skylar Morgan, Mount Pleasant sophomore, hits her moves in the Swingster dance routine.
The amount of money raised by the Lady Rangers and community members during the Pink Out game.
Team leaders dish it out A Q & A with our 2-year Lady Rangers ALLISON TALIAFERRO Staff Writer Two veteran sophomores on the women’s basketball team, Da’Jah Thompson (left) and Lyrik Williams (right), sit down with a reporter and talk about their last season with the Lady Rangers.
Q
uestion: How many years total have you been playing basketball? Lyrik Williams: I have been playing basketball since I was four years old. Da’Jah Thompson: I have not been playing basketball since I was four, I was a cheerleader. I have been playing basketball since I was in 7th grade.
Q
: How did you get started playing basketball? For example did you have family members that played? D: I grew up in an athletic family. We played all of the primary sports: volleyball, basketball, track. L: I got started playing basketball from my father. His side of the family has a lot of basketball players.
Q
: What is the funniest memory you’ve had playing on the KC basketball team? L: My funniest memory was when I threw the ball at Coach Brown’s eyes, and his glasses broke. D: I don’t know. I don’t think I really have a funniest memory!
Q
: What has been your most memorable game as a Lady Ranger? D: My most memorable game was this year against Jacksonville. L: My most memorable game this year would be the one against Collin County, because our shooters were hot and everybody was playing hard. It was a really good game to watch!
Q
: What has been the most important lesson you have learned from being a member of this team? D: “Team work makes the dream work” and that is true, when you work hard together you win games! L: “When you play hard you get good results.” When you are giving it your all, you have the best chance at being successful.
Q
: Where are you going after you graduate KC? Are you planning on continuing your basketball career? D: I’m not sure where I am heading after KC right now, but I plan to continue my basketball career. L: I don’t know where I’m heading after KC, but I do want to play basketball! : What’s it going to be like the last time you put on a KC jersey? D: Wow, the last time? Hopefully in the National Tournament! L: The last time I put on the KC jersey is going to be weird. I don’t know what the feeling is going to be exactly. It’s going to be sad, Coach Nimz is a fun coach to play for. She makes you work hard, which is always fun. I’m not saying I am going to cry… but it will be emotional.
Q
: Have you made close friendships with your other teammates? D: I haven’t made any close friends, that I feel like I have to keep in touch with after I leave. With the girls that we have this year, I feel that I am closer to them, so I’ve made better relationships. L: I have not made any “best friend,” relationships but I like the girls that I am around. We all get along and we are there for one another. I love all the girls on the team very much and wish all of them success.
Photos by Hailey Pennington / THE FLARE
Q