Issue 20 4-25-2014

Countdown to exams: 10 days FINAL EXAM SCHEDULE

TUESDAY OR THURSDAY CLASSES

Monday, Dec. 10 – Thursday, Dec. 13 MONDAY, WEDNESDAY OR FRIDAY CLASSES CLASS TIME

EXAM TIME

DATE

7 or 7:30 a.m.

8 or 8:30 a.m.

9 or 9:30 a.m.

10 or 10:30 a.m.

11 or 11:30 a.m.

12 or 12:30 p.m.

1 or 1:30 p.m.

2 or 2:30 p.m.

3, 3:30 or 4 p.m.

5 or 5:30 p.m.

7-9 a.m.

8-10 a.m.

9:30-11:30 a.m.

10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.

Noon - 2 p.m.

1-3 p.m.

3:30-5:30 p.m.

3:30-5:30 p.m.

2:30-4:30 p.m.

5-7 p.m.

Mon., May 5 Wed., May 7 Mon., May 5 Wed., May 7 Mon., May 5 Wed., May 7 Wed., May 7 Wed., May 7 Mon., May 5 Mon., May 5

CLASS TIME

EXAM TIME

6, 7, 7:30, 8 or 8:30 a.m.

8-10 a.m.

9, 9:30, 10 or 10:30 a.m.

8 a.m.-10 a.m.

11 a.m. or Noon 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.

12:30 p.m.

10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.

1 or 1:30 p.m.

1-3 p.m.

2 or 2:30 p.m.

1-3 p.m.

3, 3:30 or 4:30 p.m. 3:30-5:30 p.m.

5 or 5:30 p.m.

5-7 p.m.

DATE Thurs., May 8 Tues., May 6 Thurs., May 8 Tues., May 6 Tues., May 6 Thurs., May 8 Tues., May 6 Thurs., May 8

EVENING CLASSES EXAM TIME

DATE

Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday

Mon., May 5 Tues., May 6 Wed., May 7 Thurs., May 8

7:30-9:30 p.m.

6:30-8:30 p.m.

6:30-8:30 p.m.

7:30-9:30 p.m.

*Classes beginning at 6 p.m. or later

Last issue of the semester!

See you in August!

All Friday only classes will test at regular class time on Friday, May 9.

All Saturday classes will test 8:30-10:30 a.m. Saturday, May 3.

Flex classes (classes that follow a different calendar than the regular semester) may test at different times. See course syllabus or

Page 10

time.

Grades will be available Tuesday, May 13. Grades may be accessed and printed at www.kilgore.edu – click on the Campus Connect link.

Grades will not be mailed.

INSTRUCTORS: Grades must be submitted through Campus Connect by 10 a.m. Monday, May 12.

The Flare

The Flare

Friday, April 25, 2014 Vol. 77 No. 20 Serving Kilgore College since 1936

Motivated by disability his

Sara Holmes / THE FLARE

Richard Harrison is retiring after 39 years at KC.

Harrison ‘ducking’ out after 39 years DEZIRAE BURNETT Assistant Editor

I

n 1975, an optimistic graduate of East Texas State University, now known as Texas A&M University - Commerce, received a job as an English/speech instructor at KC. For the past 39 years, he has served the college as an instructor, department chair for liberal and creative arts, and for the past five years as the dean of liberal and creative arts.

At the conclusion of the Spring Semester, long-time KC faculty member Dr. Richard Harrison will be retiring.

Harrison majored in political science at Baylor University before receiving his doctorate from ETSU. He also has 30 postdoctorate hours from UT Tyler and ETSU. “[At Baylor,] I swore I would never set foot in a classroom again,” Harrison said.

See HARRISON on Page 6

Flare wins big at TIPA competition StAff REPoRtS The Flare won top honors in the Texas Intercollegiate Press Association competition.

The awards were announced at the annual convention held April 10-12 in San Antonio.

For the 24th time in 28 years, The Flare won sweepstakes for garnering the most points in its division.

The weekly newspaper won first place for overall excellence as well. Other first place awards were for headline writing, photo illustration, sports page design, news feature story, special section, news photo, opinion/editorial page design, information graphic and feature page design.

“I am very proud of our staff for these awards, but more importantly for their hard work and dedication in helping make The Flare as good a newspaper as possible,” said Gary Borders,

adviser.

In all, the newspaper received 26 awards at TIPA. In addition, Sonia Garza, Tatum sophomore, was named Photojournalist of the Year in Division 2, marking the third year in a row the award has been won by a KC photography student.

The Ranger yearbook also won a number of awards, including honorable mention in overall excellence in a division competing with a number of Texas universities.

The Ranger won first place for academic photo and sports feature photo, and 17 awards in all.

Borders and O. Rufus Lovett serve as co-advisers of the yearbook.

The Flare Magazine also received an honorable mention for overall excellence and four awards in all.

See TIPA on Page 3

Charity Mezzell / THE FLARE

Brian Brown is the owner of Open Arms Motivational Speaking, a motivational speaking company, which he launched in 2009.

Brian Brown seeks to inspire others

D

DEVIN BROOKS • Staff Writer

isabilities can take a huge toll on people throughout the course of their lives. Some people with disabilities embrace them and others hide them. Sooner or later a person has to come the conclusion that they are who they are, and make the best of the situation.

Motivational speaker Brian Brown has done just that.

Brown has cerebral palsy. He was born prematurely and weighed about two pounds and two ounces at birth, and had little blood flow to his brain.

He refers to it as “being a vegetable.” Since he has cerebral palsy he is unable to walk and has spent his life in a wheelchair.

He has use of his hands, but not complete use so he has to work around that, but he is still able to hold things in his hands.

Brown was told that he was supposed to be dead right after he was born, but he believes that God had a plan for him all along, and that is the reason why he is still alive.

“God has given me a disability so that I may be

able to inspire people to keep moving forward along their Christian journey,” Brown said.

Brown attended KC from 2002-2005. He majored in speech and graduated from KC with an associate degree in speech and communications.

“I really liked my time at KC; being here helped me launch my career as a motivational speaker.”

Brown graduated with a bachelor’s degree from East Texas Baptist University in communications and journalism.

Brown now is the owner of a motivational speaking company called Open Arms Motivational Speaking, which he launched in 2009.

See BROWN on Page 6

FRIDAY APRIL 25, 2014

FACE IN THE CROWD

The Flare

Tori Whitwell

2

PA G E

NOTEBOOK

April 27 – June 2

SUNDAY, April 27 TWIRLER EXTRAVAGANZA 1 p.m. - 5 p.m., Masters Gym SATURDAY, April 28 RANGER SOFTBALL VS. NORTH TEXAS CENTRAL COLLEGE 1 p.m. and 3 p.m., Gainesville.

THURSDAY, May 1 KC BAND CONCERT 7:30 p.m., Dodson Auditorium TRIO SPRING BANQUET 5:30 p.m - 7:30 p.m., DSC Ballroom RANGER SOFTBALL IN THE REGION XIV TOURNAMENT TBA

Why did you choose KC? I received a scholarship from the school, and I really believe God wanted me to go here.

As a child, what did you want to be when you “grew up?” I wanted to work with Steve Irwin (the Crocodile Hunter) at the Australian Zoo. How did you decide on your major? Business seemed like the best thing to do until I really find out what I am supposed to do.

Are you a member of any student organizations/clubs? I am member of Phi Theta Kappa.

What has been your favorite class at KC so far? Concepts of Fitness because I love to work out.

Are you glad to have gotten the community college experience? What has it done to prepare you for a four-year school? At first I was upset about going to a junior college before a university, but now I couldn’t be more grateful.

I’ve learned that you make the best of your situation and still strive to do your best at every task you are given. Plus I have saved a lot of money!

If you plan to transfer, where will you transfer to and why? I do plan to transfer, but I’m waiting on God to tell me where to go.

What are your plans for the summer? I plan on taking summer classes, working, and learning more about Jesus.

Age: 18 Freshman Major: Business Administration Hometown: Flower Mound Sara Holmes/ THE FLARE

Dance concert May 2

FRIDAY, May 2 RANGER SOFTBALL IN THE REGION XIV TOURNAMENT TBA DANCE CONCERT 8 p.m., Van Cliburn Auditorium

JORDAN BAIRD Staff Writer

KC

SATURDAY, May 3 RANGER SOFTBALL IN THE REGION XIV TOURNAMENT TBA, Southside PINEY WOODS COUNSELING ASSOCIATION MEETING 8:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m., Devall Room SUNDAY, May 4 RANGER SOFTBALL IN THE REGION XIV TOURNAMENT TBA, Southside CONCERTO PROGRAM 3 p.m., Van Cliburn Auditorium MONDAY, May 5 FINAL EXAMS BEGIN THRUSDAY, May 8 CAFETERIA CLOSES RESIDENCE HALLS CLOSE 10 p.m.

FRIDAY, May 9 SPRING GRADUATION 2014 2 p.m. and 6 p.m., Dodson Auditorium RANGER BASKETBALL TRYOUTS 1 p.m. - 6 p.m., Masters Gym PTK PINNING CEREMONY 11:30 a.m. - 1 p.m., DSC Ballroom ADN PINNING CEREMONY 9 a.m. - 10:30 a.m., Dodson Auditorium SATURDAY, May 10 KC TWIRLER TRYOUTS 8 a.m. - 4 p.m., Masters Gym WEDNESDAY, May 14 MAY MINI TERM (MONDAY THROUGH FRIDAY CLASSES) May 14 - May 30 SATURDAY, May 17 RANGER CHEER TRYOUTS 8 a.m. - 3 p.m., Parks Fitness Center Aerobic Floor NEW STUDENT ORIENTATION 7 a.m. - 4 p.m., DSC Ballroom SUNDAY, May 18 RANGER CHEER TRYOUTS 8 a.m. - 2 p.m., Parks Fitness Center Aerobic Floor TUESDAY, May 20 NEW STUDENT ORIENTATION 7 a.m. - 4 p.m., DSC Ballroom MONDAY, May 24 MEMORIAL DAY CAMPUS CLOSED THURSDAY, May 29 LIFELINE SCREENING 8 a.m. - 5:30 p.m., DSC Ballroom WEDNESDAY, June 4 NEW STUDENT ORIENTATION 7 a.m. - 4 p.m., DSC Ballroom THURSDAY, June12 NEW STUDENT ORIENTATION 7 a.m. - 4 p.m., DSC Ballroom

O. Rufus Lovett / SPECIAL TO THE THE FLARE

Asia Phillips poses for the puts on the show each year to showcase a variety of dance styles.

dance students will present their annual dance concert at 8 p.m. Friday, May 2, in Van Cliburn Auditorium.

Tickets are $10 or $5 with a student ID. Tickets will be sold at the box office in the auditorium starting at 7 on the night of the performance.

This event is led by Cathy Beckman, ballet, modern dance and performance course instructor, and Shelley Wayne, tap and jazz instructor.

“One of our goals is to show variety and our skills at Kilgore College,” Beckman said. “Every year is different, though, because it depends on the dancers.”

The instructors say this event gives students a chance to participate in a real dance concert, allowing them to show off their own choreography and perform different styles of dances, including a tap and jazz routine and several other styles.

“I’m excited to dance in a smaller setting because it will have more of a concert feel to it, rather than a big production,” Emily Diehl, Allen freshman said.

“I am also excited to perform choreography that I have created with my fellow classmates,” she added Students in the dance classes are excited to work together and create their own types of original choreography.

“I am excited to have one more chance to dance, and I didn’t have to end the year with Revels,” Robin Richardson, Flower Mound sophomore and Rangerette, said.

Ag collects food for needy TORY VAN BLARCUM Features Editor The KC ag department recently started a new service learning project called First Fruits.

The project begins on May 5 at the KC demonstration farm and will continue each first Monday of the month.

Students will harvest the available produce and then deliver it to a

charity of their choice.

“The Hiway 80 Rescue Mission in Longview is a good option since many food banks are not equipped to deal with fresh material, only canned or dry,” Karl Steddom, biology and agriculture instructor, said.

The ag department wants to teach students where their food comes from and the need for it in the community, since fresh food is rare at most shelters.

As the seasons change, so will the types of produce available for harvest. Currently the farm is harvesting strawberries.

The ag students are re-planting greens, such as squash and cucumbers whose crops have been hurt by the recent wet, cool weather.

For more information on how to participate, contact Steddom at ksteddom@kilgore.edu or at 903-9838656.

Final PTK meeting of semester Friday CHRISTINE RITTER Staff Writer The last Phi Theta Kappa meeting of the semester is at 4 p.m. on April 28 in the Communications-–Automotive Building, Room 108. It is open to all members and anybody who has been invited to join.

The final date to join PTK for the Spring Semester is April 30. Interested members who have lost their passcode should contact Michele Daniels, PTK adviser, as soon as possible.

The new officers were elected and are President: Troy Townsend; VP

of Scholarship: Cherry He; VP of Leadership: Kayla Reesor; VP of Fellowship: Kendra Roberson; and Secretary/Finance: Ashton Terry.

Most of the next semester’s officer positions have already been decided, but there are still two officer positions open: Vice President of Public Relations and Co-vice President of Service.

The organization is looking for somebody who works well with technology to fill the position of Vice President of Public and Relations.

The Co-vice president of Service will assist the new Vice President of

Service with their duties.

PTK officers get free regalia and their attendance at conferences covered by the chapter. To be qualified for the position, students must be in good standing in the organization and be committed to the position through May 2015.

Chidinma Nwadialo and Dezirae Burnett were selected to receive the free Phi Theta Kappa memberships for the Spring Semester.

For more information about PTK, contact advisers Michele Daniels at 903-983-8621, or Paul Buchanan at 903983-8253.

Theft, noise complaint among KCPD reports CAMRON PORTLEY Staff Writer Chief Heath Cariker has provided the following police reports: • On April 1, a student reported a property theft in one of the student parking lots.

• On April 2 officers responded to a noise complaint in Nolan Hall.

• KCPD assisted an agency on April 3.

• On April 6 KCPD performed another agency assist.

• A student reported an assault charge on April 11.

• KCPD performed two-agency assists on April 13 and on the 15.

• On April 17 KCPD served an arrest warrant.

• An arrest was issued for possession of two ounces of an unknown substance on April 4.

Goodding gets permanent theatre position DEZIRAE BURNETT Assistant Editor Interim theatre department director Micah Goodding will now fill the position permanently.

“He has done such a wonderful job for us this semester already, and we are looking forward to great things from him in the fall,” Jeanine Tagg, department chair, said.

Goodding began serving as interim director at the conclusion of the Fall 2013 semester after the retirement of Kathy Barber.

“I feel humbled to follow those that have held this position before me,” Goodding, said. “I feel honored to work with such a fantastic faculty and student body. I am full of anticipation at what the future will hold, but most of all I am bursting at the seems with gratitude.”

Goodding attended KC for theatre. After obtaining his associates degree here he received degrees in threatre and drawing from Stephen F. Austin State University.

Theatre department seeks brand boost JORDAN BAIRD Staff Writer The KC theatre department is partnering with the Digital Arts program to give their identity a “facelift.”

They have recently started a Facebook page, a Twitter account and a Tumblr.

“It is hard to believe, but up until now, KC theatre has existed with little or no branding, so this is very exciting for us,” Michah Goodding, theatre instructor, said.

Coy Lothrop, graphic design instructor, has been sending students to take photos of theatre students while they apply make-up, build sets and during rehearsals.

Design students have been working on this project for the past weeks.

Theatre is nearing the final stages of its branding project and will unveil their designs and presentations within the next few weeks.

The KC Theatre department is also currently hosting auditions and interviews for scholarships within the department.

Students will compete for scholarships of varying amounts to aide with tuition and other course related expenses.

Live orchestra to join Piano Concerto May 4 DEZIRAE BURNETT Assistant Editor The KC Fine Arts department’s annual Piano Concerto will take place at 3 p.m. Sunday, May 4 in Van Cliburn Auditorium.

A live orchestra will accompany sophomore piano students as they perform their solo pieces. The orchestra is conducted by Dr. Gene Moon.

Featured performers will include Seth Briley, Longview; Brittany Crowe, Longview; Corey Daniels, Henderson; Melodi King, Longview; and Alan Zamarron, Gilmer. Dean Peiskee will also be featured. He is a former KC student who is currently a doctoral student at Florida State University.

This event is open to the public and free of cost. Children under the age of six will not be admitted.

For more information, contact Sandra Siler at 903-983-8120.

NEWS

3

FRIDAY, APRIL 25, 2014

Student goes for a ride with KCPD CAMRON PORTLEY Staff Writer

R

ecently at 5 p.m. I went on a ride along with KCPD officer Sammy Wagner.

Wagner came to KC from Trinity Valley Community College last November.

“It’s not just about arresting students,” Wagner said as he explained why he does what he does.

He said the officers are there for the protection of the students.

During the patrol, Wagner said he drives with the windows down.

“If someone calls for help outside, how can you hear if the windows are up?” Wagner asked.

After we left the station, Wagner went to the physical plant. There he checked to see if the front and side gates were locked. This area houses equipment such as carts, trailers and work trucks that the college owns.

We then proceeded down the street to the college’s storage building.

This is where the trucks for the

Commercial Driving License course are stored.

After checking to make sure the trucks were there and intact, we returned to the Administration Building. We went through the building and checked a few rooms, turned off some lights and locked up. We worked our way over to the Kilgore softball fields. Wagner did not get out of the truck but just checked the area.

The Devall Student Center was our next stop. We went to the cafeteria.

Wagner was very laid back as he observed the students.

The fitness center was our next priority. Here, Wagner looked around at the students and commuters.

We walked around to the normally busy carpeted gym but at the time it was quiet. Wagner’s next stop was the Woodruff Adult Education Center.

At the Woodruff center, Wagner was very relaxed and spoke to the women who were at the desk.

We walked around the building and even took a peep inside at the

sculpting class that was in session.

After making sure the Woodruff center was secure, Wagner went to women’s residence, Nolan Hall.

Wagner pointed out it is best to call the house mother before showing up unannounced to eliminate any potential problems.

After talking with the house mother, we made our way back to the police station.

Here Wagner showed how officers use the computers to input police reports, the software that allows them to share information about students, for example, if they have criminal trespassing records, and the evidence locker.

On foot patrol we went back to the cafeteria. Again he was just looking around, comfortably watching and speaking to the students.

Our last stop was the fitness center. On the way we ran into some unknown people skateboarding on the sidewalk.

When asked to identify themselves, they turned out to not be KC students. Officer Wagner could have

Twirler tryouts set for May 10

ONLINE Get the latest scores, schedules, news and video online at

chosen to have these two men cited with criminal trespassing charges.

Wagner let the young men go with just a verbal waning. This allows him to gain the respect of these two and at the same time make his point clear he said.

The ride along was very informative and taught me quite a bit about police work. Wagner and Chief Heath Cariker encourages those who are interested to contact him or Chief Cariker at 903-983-8656 or email ccariker@kilgore.edu.

TIPA: Flare takes sweepstakes again FROM PAGE 1 NEWSPAPER CONTEST: Anup Bhandari — First — First Cody Davis — Honorable — First place, photo illustration; honorable mention, picture — Third

ELLEN REID Staff Writer Twirler, feature twirler and drum major tryouts are set for Saturday, May 10.

The fee to try out is $150.

Candidates for KC twirler will meet at 8:30 a.m. in Masters Gym and learn routines until noon. After the lunch break, judging will begin.

At 1:30 p.m. feature twirler auditions will be judged, and at 3:30 p.m. drum major auditions will be judged.

Auditions are open to the public.

A solid color top, black bottoms and aerobic shoes are required for tryouts.

ABC batons are also required.

For more information go to www.kilgore.edu and click on the twirlers under the athletic and organizations tab.

Tops and Twirling camp hosted by the KC twirlers will be Wednesday, July 23 to Saturday, July 26.

The camp is for 6th grade through 12th grade.

The fee for commuting is $160 if received by July 16, or $210 after. This includes tuition, meals, a T-shirt and CD. The fee for residential is $210 if received by July 16, or $260 after. This includes tuition, room and board, meals, a T-shirt and CD. Registration will be 8- 10 a.m. Wednesday, July 23 in Masters Gym. Final demonstration for guest will be 11 a.m.

Saturday, July 26 in Masters Gym. Students are required to have aerobic tennis shoes, batons and black bottoms.

To fill out an application, or for more information go to www.kilgore.edu and click on twirlers under the athletic and organizations tab.

Tory Van Blarcum / THE FLARE

Sammy Wagner has been with the force since November.

Sonia Garza — Honorable mention, ad design; — Second place, illustration; third place, —

Third

—

Third

Ashton Johnson — First place, special section/edition; second place, page one

Charity Mezzell / THE FLARE

HAPPY HELPER Aaron Momtalvo, Corpus Christi freshman, gives a thumbs up while donating blood at KC’s Mobile Blood Drive.

Tryouts for upcoming Rangerette line in July ELLEN REID Staff Writer Tryouts for the Rangerette line for the 2014-15 year are July 1318.

Check in time is 8-11 a.m. Sunday, June 13 at Stark Hall. A payment of $150 for room and board to stay in the dorms will be due at this time.

The tryout process will consist of a Rangerette

Tea, which allows participants to meet the sophomore Rangerettes, model night, talent show night and learning dances all week.

The new line will be announced 10 a.m.

Friday July 18 in Dodson Auditorium.

To fill out an application for tryouts, and for more information, go to www. rangerettes.com and click on the tryout tab.

place,

headline

place,

— First opinion/editorial page

Randi Vinson-Davis — Third place, picture story; honorable award

— First place, academic photo; second place,

Randi Honorable excellence

Vinson-Davis mention,

— — overall

Sonia Garza — Second place, photo story; honorable mention, — Honorable Kim Hill — honorable mention,

— First writing;

— Second place,

— Second

—

— Second

Brittany Pfau — Second place,

place, special section/edition; honorable mention, in-depth reporting; second place, page one design; third place, single

MAGAZINE CONTEST:

— First Place, sports feature photo; second place, feature/student

— Second

Brittani Pfau — First place,

— overall

Ashton Johnson — Honorable

YEARBOOK CONTEST: Anup Bhandari — Second

—

Jordan Moss — First place, sports page design; second

mention,

— Overall Excellence

— Second place, photo story; honorable mention, sports; third place, end

— Second place, editorial; second place, opinion/editorial page design; second place, feature page

Honorable excellence

— Second Randi Vinson-Davis — Second place, feature/student life; third

Stoneridge Apartments Now Leasing!!

Efficiencies, 1 & 2 bedrooms!

Call 903-984-1668

FE ATURES

Bon appétit!

4

FRIDAY, APRIL 25, 2014

Belanger transforms from diesel mechanic to culinary instructor

H

ELLEN REID Staff Writer

e could cook it, kill it and skin it by the age of 6.

That is what David Belanger, first-year KC culinary instructor, says about his

childhood.

“I was a self-sufficient kid,” Belanger said.

Being raised by his single mom, aunt and grandmother, it instilled in him a way of life and a passion: cooking.

Belanger has a story though, that most culinary chefs do not.

Growing up on a Michigan farm, he didn’t finish high school. He was going to a college in Michigan until the administration found out he didn’t have a high school diploma.

Belanger got his GED soon after and wanted to become a teacher. He quickly got out of that though, when, in his words, the big pink slipping started.

“Teachers in ’78 were given pink slips where they no longer had jobs,” Belanger said. Belanger wanted a stable job and knew that teaching was not it.

Belanger had many jobs before becoming a chef. He was in construction, worked on oil rigs, was a repo man, locksmith and a diesel mechanic most recently before becoming a chief.

“In 2009 I was laid off and forced to draw unemployment,” Belanger said.

After watching cooking channels all day and having support from his wife, he decided cooking had always been his passion and that he was going to attend the Art Institute in Dallas to get his degree.

Belanger got loans that he didn’t have to make the payments on until two years after school. He said he knew attending culinary school is what was supposed to happen.

Belanger said it wasn’t all easy either once he got there.

“There were times I felt discouraged, especially with the core classes,” Belanger said.

He had not taken math in years and that was really tough for him. He did not know how to type either, since that was not required the last time he went to school. He said that his instructors really helped him, and he loved what he was doing.

After finishing his degree, Belanger worked for a catering company out of Longview.

With Belanger being strong in his faith, he believes being the culinary chef at KC was meant for him.

“My friend from church called me and told me that they were looking for a culinary instructor,” Belanger said.

He called, got an interview, was hired and said he has loved every minute of it since.

From being a man of odd jobs, to being an instructor and teaching others how to cook, Belanger said he hopes to be an example to others.

“You are never too old to learn something new,” Belanger said. “Anything is possible if you put your mind to it.”

Belanger says he loves teaching his students more than just cooking, though. He likes teaching them lessons.

“I feel I make a difference,” Belanger said.

“Cooking right and eating right will allow you to be healthier and live longer.”

Another goal Belanger wants to instill in his students is to try everything. You might find something you really like and you might not, but at least you are trying new things,

Sara Holmes / THE FLARE

David Belanger,

has been preparing food since the age of 6.

which will lead to trying other new things.

Belanger is not stopping with this dream though.

“I have a desire to have food trucks,” Belanger said. The city of Longview will not

allow them right now, but Belanger is not giving up.

Belanger also said he would like to travel around Europe and cook in different countries and learn the root of recipes.

Belanger is a prime example that you can do anything your heart desires. With dedication and faith it will be accomplished.

Belanger ends with saying, “God Bless, Eat Well and Bon Appétit.”

Have a

Goodday Downtown coffee shop reopens and offers KC students a place to study, hang out and buy refreshments at a discounted price TORY VAN BLARCUM Features Editor

G Tory Van Blarcum / THE FLARE

Spencer Hodnett serves up refreshments to customers daily.

oodday Coffee has reopened after being closed for over a year The owner, Mike Tate, was tired of losing money, but he decided to hire new management and and open its doors once again.

The coffee shop recently reopened on Valentine’s Day. As part of the new management, manager Brenda Beal and her staff have redecorated.

“We wanted to give the town of Kilgore a Valentine’s present,” Beal

said.

Goodday is known for its coffee beverages but also serves tea, smoothies and other drinks.

“We are friendly, motherly and have good coffee,” Beal said.

Goodday uses all the best ingredients available for their beverages and also has breakfast items, fresh fruit and sweets, according to Beal.

KC students are given a 10-percent discount on their purchase when they show their student ID. Free Wi-Fi is available to all customers. The shop also provides games such as checkers and chess on multiple tables for a little bit of friendly, quiet competition.

There is an upstairs area furnished with a round table, which can be used for meetings or High Teas to anyone to use.

The coffee shop is open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Friday and from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday.

Beal and other employees are available to host private parties, bridal showers, baby showers, etc.

Beal also finds it important to teach her employees’ good etiquette and is open to teaching anyone if they would like it.

Goodday Coffee is located at 111 North Kilgore St. in downtown Kilgore, next door to The Lucky Cowgirl Boutique.

SPORT S

FRIDAY, APRIL 25, 2014

5

Rangers hit tough patch in April games DEVIN BROOKS Sports Writer

Photos by Kristopher Dobbins / THE FLARE

TOP: Bianca Bianca Van Vlerah prepares to swing during a game earlier this season. At right, pitcher Kayla Calvert winds up before releasing the ball during an earlier season game.

The KC softball team has hit a dry spell during the month of April.

With the season nearing a close, KC will not be participating in the Region XIV postseason tournament.

They have lost seven of their last eight games this month. With only two more doubleheader games left in the season, KC’s playoffs hopes have vanished.

The team has a conference record of 2-14 and an overall record of 8-31 on the season.

KC opened up the month with a doubleheader game against conference foe Trinity Valley Community College. They lost the first contest 8-6. Both teams’ bats were hot, but TVCC was able to outlast KC for the victory. In the second game KC was shut out, 8-0.

KC faced off against Bossier Parrish Community College on April 5, which was the first American Cancer Society Strikeout game hosted by KC. They lost both games to Bossier Parrish, 10-5 and 10-6. The real story in that game was that KC was able to donate a total of $979 to the American Cancer Society.

Paige Wood, a volunteer for the American Cancer Society, won the pink genuine Louisville Slugger bat that was raffled off as a gift by the KC softball team.

The inning sponsors donated $600 to the American Cancer Society, which totaled up to $979. The inning sponsors were: Trinity Mother Frances; Mark & Reinter Dickey; Classic Chevrolet at Sugarland; Jan & Craig Jaynes; Klassic Touch Salon; Jackie Ford A/C Heat; Steel & Pipe Supply. The KC softball team would like to thank all the sponsors for the donations and their participation in the cancer strikeout game.

On April 9, KC battled Navarro College, and they lost both games 3-0 and 11-2. It was once again a tough day offensively. It’s hard to win games when the team can’t put runs on the board.

On April 15, KC faced off against TVCC again, and they lost both

games. In the first contest KC led TVCC 6-1 going into the sixth inning.

TVCC scored seven runs in the last two innings to narrowly escape KC for the 8-6 victory.

Catcher Mariah Goguen recorded a home run in the first inning that sparked KC’s early run, and she brought in two runners in the process. Marsia Ledkins had two singles, while Bianca Van Vlerah, Lakin Kerby, and Lexi Lopez all had one single each. Center fielder Jalla Johnson had one double. Pitcher Lara Lewis pitched five innings with eight hits allowed with seven walks two strikeouts and six runs allowed. She was battling soreness in her pitching arm all game and was pulled early.

Head Coach Leslie Messina felt like her team did all they could do.

“We did great the first part of the game, but we became too content and lost control of the game,” said Messina.

KC was shut out the second game, 8-0, despite Lopez going 2-for-3 from the plate with a double. They got runners on base, but were unable to put runs on the board.

Messina knows her team missed the postseason, but her comments were positive and she is very excited for what is ahead in the future.

“I am disappointed because I know that we didn’t meet our goals that we set for the season, but overall my team fought hard all year. We had a lot of bad luck with injuries, and we were very inconsistent at times, but my team never gave up and we will continue to finish out the season on a strong note,” said Messina.

KC had a number of injuries to the pitching staff. Kari Courtney, the starting pitcher, is out for the remainder of the season due to a concussion.

Messina is excited about her team for next year, and she knows that they will be ready.

KC played Navarro College on April 23, and they will finish the season against Paris Junior College at home, which is Sophomore Day. That doubleheader begins at 1 p.m. on Friday at Stream Flo-Field.

6

FRIDAY, APRIL 25, 2014

Students from

International students explain why they are at KC

afar

JUDITH NWOSU CHRISTINE RITTER Staff Writer

J

udith Nwosu, Kilgore freshman, came to KC from Nigeria after she was recruited for basketball. She was a freshman guard for the Lady Rangers last season.

She first heard about KC from her coach and a friend.

Nwosu studies pre-nursing and got into the medical field so she could save people.

After she lost her dad to cardiac arrest, she decided to go into nursing. Nwosu said when he went into cardiac arrest, nobody knew how to perform CPR or how to resuscitate him.

“I could say my caring and compassionate heart made me want to go into nursing,” Nwosu said.

After she has completed the nursing program at KC, Nwosu hopes to become a nurse for the United Nations so she can travel around the world to help people in need.

She hopes to go to Haiti and help the children and the people who were injured by the earthquake. After reading about what has been going on in that country, she wants to help out the people who have been affected the earthquake.

When Nwosu came to America, she did not expect the weather to be so inconsistent and frigid.

There is not a winter season in Nigeria and arrived during the middle of winter. At first she was intimidated by the colder climate, and she almost wanted to go back home.

Laura Hernandez / THE FLARE

Nwosu said when she first arrived she thought she couldn’t cope with the cold weather, but she received encouragement and winter coats from churches. But she frequently got sick until she was able to get used to the weather.

The food was also something she had trouble adjusting to. The food was more processed then she was used to eating at home. She said she realized she had to eat something, so she had to get used to it by eating more of it.

“I kept eating it and there are still things I cannot eat right now, (such as) broccoli or pizza,” Nwosu said.

Despite the troubles she first encountered she stayed and found things she enjoyed. In her free time, she likes to play basketball and hang out with friends. She also goes to the Girls Bible Study group at the Baptist Student Center.

“Those girls are my family. I like hanging out with them,” Nwosu said.

R

refills.

“That’s one of the things that impressed me,” Selda said “In Spain you don’t have that; if you want more drink you’ll have to

pay for it.”

He enjoys eating sweet food and desserts, but he doesn’t have a special dish that he enjoys the most.

yman A. Harthi comes to KC from Saudi Arabia.

He first came to the United States in 2007 for a job promotion for the company he works for, Aramco.

He also brought his wife and son along.

He is a Shift Supervisor and works there seven days a week and then receives two days off.

His shift usually last from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Harthi is attending KC with intent to graduate with an occupational safety and health degree in 2016.

He came to the U.S. for another reason, which was to visit friends in California.

He said that Texas people are much more friendlier though.

Harthi said he has enjoyed his experience in America.

He plans to return home to Saudi Arabia in 2016 and stay there with his family.

Laura Hernandez / THE FLARE

SEVA LYWINE “HOSSANA” MEVO

S

Before returning to graduate school, Harrison made a living as a bronco rider in the professional rodeo circuit. With the Vietnam War going on, the civil rights movements, and numerous other factors, he did not expect to live to see the age of 25.

But two years into his rodeo career, an accident left him with three fractured vertebrae, at which point Harrison thought, “I think I’ll be a teacher.”

Taking the position at KC was an easy decision for Harrison and his wife, who is a Kilgore native.

“For her, it was easy because it was like she was coming home,” Harrison said.

Serving as an instructor of English and speech, Harrison also served as a department chair of the liberal and fine arts department for 17 years. He took the position as dean following the retirement of the former dean.

“I thought this might be a nice move,” Harrison said about taking the position.

As dean, Harrison supervises instruction, and deals with faculty and department chairs, determining how to fix problems and how to anticipate and avoid problems for the future.

“Basically, I am a coordinator between administration and faculty,” he said.

When asked why he made the decision to retire now, Harrison answered simply, “Well the Liberal Arts Building is gone.”

According to Harrison, when he first came to teach at KC, Stewart McLaurin who was the dean of arts and sciences at the time, told him to not get “comfy” in the building because it was being torn down; 39 years later, with the building finally demolished, Harrison took it as the sign he needed to make the decision to retire.

During his career at KC, his favorite thing about the experience has been dealing with students.

“They are still young, still enthusiastic, they still have fun…” he said.

According to Harrison, that is what he is going to miss the most in his retirement.

However, he is looking forward to being able to hunt whenever he wants, as he is an avid fowl hunter. He is also anticipating more time to read for pleasure, as well as competing again in old-time fiddle contests, which he did for 10 years following the conclusion of his rodeo career.

sister,” Mevo said.

Mevo has a few uncles in the nursing field and it has also sparked her interested for nursing.

Mevo currently lives off campus with her brother and sister that came to America before her.

She has had a very good impression of the U.S., but there are some things that are different from Africa.

The school in Cotonou lasts longer than at KC. School hours are from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.

BROWN: Seeks to inspire others FROM PAGE 1

JORDAN BAIRD Staff Writer

eva Lywine “Hossana” Mevo comes from Cotonou, Benin in west Africa.

She came to Texas last year to get involved in the nursing program at KC. Her dream job is to become a pediatrician or surgeon because of the love she has for children.

“As a child, I always took care of my little

Becky Johnson, department chair of languages, has been named as the interim dean of liberal and creative arts. She will be eligible to apply for the position permanently when the position is opened to outside applicants if she chooses to do so.

“I am honored to fill the position of interim dean of liberal and fine arts division and look forward to working with the instructors and staff in that area,” Johnson said.

Johnson will fill the position until the end of the 2015 Spring Semester.

“She has done an outstanding job of leading that department and will do an admirable job as interim dean,” said Vice President of Instruction Gerald Stanglin in an email sent to KC faculty regarding the matter.

Additionally, Stanglin announced that the languages department will be integrated into the division.

The transition from retiring current dean, Richard Harrison, to Johnson, and the merging of the languages department into the arts division will go into effect May 19.

Kristopher Dobbins / THE FLARE

AYMAN A. HARTHI

JORDAN BAIRD Staff Writer

DEZIRAE BURNETT Assistant Editor

FROM PAGE 1

CHRISTINE RITTER Staff Writer

A

Johnson named interim dean

HARRISON: Retiring after 39 years

RALPH SELDA alph Selda, Kilgore freshman, is from Spain and is majoring in culinary art at KC. His parents are from the Philippines and they own a restaurant that serves Spanish food.

He came to KC because he had friends in Tyler and wanted to improve his English while getting a degree in culinary arts. After he graduates from KC, he wants to get a job on a cruise ship or an international hotel.

While he’s attending KC he’s focused on improving his English and schoolwork. He played padel in Spain, a sport that is like tennis.

“I play it because it’s so popular in Spain, and I played it every day to have some fun.”

Selda said.

He is living on campus while he’s attending KC and was surprised the cafeteria food was better then he expected.

When he came to America he was surprised how cheap the food was and how many restaurants and fast food places there was. The cup size for fountain drinks was also something he noticed was different.

The large cup in Spain is a small compared to the cups typically given in restaurant here. With the smaller cups they don’t give

FE ATURES

“School is much harder in Africa, but it is to get a good education,” she said.

The food variety is also different. Mevo mentioned that there are some fattening foods in Africa, but they try to eat healthy foods; such as chicken, beef and lots of vegetables.

Mevo has also visited New York and got to see the dropping of the ball on New Year’s Eve. She said there were a lot of people, but it was a very amazing experience.

She plans to go back to Africa next summer to see her parents.

His main goal was to inspire other people with or without disabilities or that God is the answer to every obstacle that comes in a person’s life, and that no matter what the situation is God can make it all better.

Brown also is a author of a book titled “A Legacy of Faith.”

“The Lord has called me on a mission to help others realize that with God all things are possible, and no matter what life throws at you anybody can overcome anything through their faith in the Lord,” Brown said.

Brown has not let anything stop him from accomplishing his goal of being a successful motivational speaker and inspiring others to push on. As a atter of fact, in August 2013 Brown went skydiving out of an airplane from 11,500 feet in the air. Even though he has no use of his legs skydiving is something that he has always wanted to do, and he was not going to let his disability stop him from doing it.

“I had people that told me not to go, but I did it because I wanted to prove that it was more than just me jumping out of a plane.

My disability isn’t going to stop me from enjoying life, and achieving my goals,” Brown said.

In addition to being a speaker and a published author, Brown is also a youth pastor for Our Lady of Grace Catholic Church in Hallsville.

Brown credits his success to the staying power of his grandmother, Josie Martinez, who has been with him since day one.

“She has been my backbone, and she has always been there for me, I’m extremely grateful for her.”

Brown has no regrets for the situation that he is in. He says “he feels no different.”

“I will not argue with what God has blessed me with,” he said.

NEWS

FRIDAY, APRIL 25, 2014

7

Tips for moving out of the dorm CHRISTINE RITTER Staff Writer

Will Pritchard / THE FLARE

John Collard, Longview freshman and Instructor Karen Dilday display the new 3D printer in the Drafting Design Technology Program.

New dimension to learning Students use 3D printers to create prototypes of various items

I

CAMRON PORTLEY Staff Writer

n her first year as an instructor at KC, Karen Dilday said she has discovered a number of students who are interested in three-dimensional printing.

KC has two 3D printers on campus, and these printers do not come cheap. Each printer costs $20,900.

The college was able to purchase these printers through grants and technology funds. Dilday said they ordered the printers, which are Stratayas, from Teaching System Incorporated, which sells high-end technical equipment.

Knowing what a 3D printer is only half the fun. Learning the actual process in how the printer creates these 3D models is the real interest, for many.

“The main function of the printers is to print prototypes to determine the best way to make and assemble the necessary parts,” said Dilday. “These prototypes are created from plastic.”

There are multiple steps that must be taken for the final 3D prototypes to be

created. Dilday said as long as the computer recognizes the object as 3D and it is a Standard Tessellation Language file (STL), the printer can create it.

Dilday described the process of how a 3D printer operates. Plastic filament travels through a tube to the print head, where it is heated to a semi-liquid state and extruded with precision. Modeling bases provide a smooth surface on which the models are extruded a layer at a time.

There are two plastics, the model material which is ABSplus thermoplastic and the soluble support material. Once printing is done, students then simply take the base out of the 3D printer and snap off the model.

Drop the model in a water-based solution to remove all the support material and it is finished. As complicated as this process may seem, Dilday said it does not require a special license to operate.

An interesting feature these printers have is they are environment friendly due to only heat being used to melt the plastic. The solutions are also eco friendly they as create no safety concerns.

John Collard, Longview freshman, said

he liked 3D printing. He chose to major in drafting because he took a class in high school and enjoyed it, and wanted to pursue a career in drafting.

“You can experiment [with] creating different objects before you create them,” Collard said.

Collard said he likes being able to make something out of nothing. Some of his 3D models include a chess set, a mechanical tiger, and even an iPhone case. His only dislike is how time consuming drafting can be.

Rena Warlick, White Oak sophomore, is another one of Dilday’s students. She said she chose to major in this field because as a child she liked to draw blueprints of houses, and now doing it on a computer is easier and fun.

“I like the creativity involved in designing anything,” said Warlick. Her dislikes include 3D modeling AutoCAD, which is a 2D and 3D software application for modeling.

Students who have an interest in 3D printing of drafting can contact Dilday at 903-983-8169 or email her at kdilday@kilgore. edu.

The end of the semester is coming up, and it will soon be time for students to move out of the residence halls.

Residents need to be checked out by 10 p.m. on May 8, and will be charged $25 for every hour after. Graduating students can stay the night, but need to leave right after the ceremony.

Here are some helpful moving hints that can help make the moving process as painless as possible.

The first thing that needs to be considered is what to pack belongings in. The popular choice is cardboard boxes, since they are lightweight and disposable. While some stores will sell them, don’t waste money buying them.

Most local stores will give free cardboard boxes away. Some have certain days they give them out so ask ahead of planned packing day. The local Brookshire’s gives boxes away for example.

If possible, move stuff home ahead of time.

While clothes are the bulkiest luggage, they’re the easiest to reduce.

It’s unlikely for winter to come again, so keep a light jacket then bring all the heavy winter gear back home. To cut down further on items to pack, plan out the outfits for the last week, and then bring the remaining items home.

Most books are another item that can be reduced. While some books can be used again, some books will only be used once.

Sell any books that won’t be used again, and it will save packing space. After all, carrying cash is a lot easier then a boxful of books.

If there are books that need to be packed then put them in small containers. Filling a large container of books will make it difficult to lift.

The most important moving tip is not to carry any more than possible. While it’s tempting to make fewer trips, a back injury will prevent anything from being moved.

Make sure to defrost refrigerators the day before moving out. If not done before, there will be water trailing down the hall.

To defrost the refrigerator, first clean it out, then unplug it, and make sure to wrap towels around the base to catch the water.

Clean out the bedroom and bathroom so it’ll be ready for another resident to move in.

After packing everything up, make sure the room is clean. An RA is going to look over the room before checking out.

8

FE ATURES

FRIDAY, APRIL 25, 2014

Playing in different keys Students share their musical stories, plans for life after KC ASHLEY MORALES • Executive Editor

Y

Brittany Crowe

ou could say Brittany Crowe, Longview sophomore, found her future on Netflix.

After watching the documentary, “They Came To Play” which is hosted by The Van Cliburn Foundation and featured the Fifth International Piano Competition for Outstanding Amateurs.

Pianists from all over the world, self-taught to classically-trained, 35 to about 80 years old met in Fort Worth for a week-long competition.

The film shows a look into the lives of these competitors as they work to balance work and family with their love of music.

Crowe looked into attending KC after watching the documentary.

She started her college career as a broadcast journalism major at Northwestern State University then switched to a clarinet major. After two years she took a semester off and transferred to KC. Her teacher from NSU, Esther Davis, informed her about Sandra Siler, KC’s head of piano instruction.

Crowe contacted Siler and arranged to meet on campus to discuss auditioning.

Upon their meeting, Crowe learned of the multiple concertos students are exposed to which made KC more appealing.

“It’s hard to find schools that you can play concertos your freshman year or entry level year,” Crowe said. “If you go to a university as an incoming freshman, you probably only get to play at one or two

recitals. Where at Kilgore, at least in the spring, we get to play like five or six.”

She decided to enroll after her meeting with Siler.

“The main goal was to get my core classes out of the way, so I might as well go the financially sufficient way and also focus on what I want to do,” Crowe said. “That way if piano didn’t work out, at least I got my core out of the way.”

Crowe has played piano as a hobby since age 8 and seriously for the past three years.

Recently, she attended a Philip Glass’ performance LIVE! in Fort Worth.

Glass has composed pieces for movies among other works.

“The concert was half silent film, half concert. While the film Dracula played, Philip Glass and his ensemble played along which made the film truly come to life,” Crowe said. “Afterward, my friend and I were lucky enough to hug him and take a photo with him. He was such a gentle soul. It was just funny and exciting knowing I saw him perform in person and met him, and this is the same guy people study in textbooks.”

She believes there is always something a person can connect with through music.

“Whether it’s a piece you’re learning on the piano, or a song you catch on the radio, there’s always a song just for you. Whichever artist or composer wrote the song, they had a message planned within the piece,” she said.

Sara Holmes / THE FLARE

Brittany Crowe hopes to establish a piano studio and teach fundamentals at a college.

Crowe said music also offers another way of communication.

“Just like when people smile, laugh or yell angrily, there is a common ground with music that can be expressed with only sound,” she said. “My personal message through music would simply be that no matter our background, we’re all equal; we’re all a combination of the same emotions whether we choose to voice them or carry them out physically. Through music, that self expressed equality is heard.

To quote John Lennon: ‘I am he as you are he and you are me and we are all together.’”

Piano offers many different things, but Crowe’s favorite is how versatile the instrument is.

“The majority of other instruments have a limited range and selection of pieces to play due to the fact that you can only play one note at a time. Yet, with piano, you can create melodies, harmonize by yourself and play with other people,” Crowe said.

“It’s simple and complex all at

Melodi King

W

Shelby Ragland / THE FLARE

Melodi King will perform in the annual concerto at 3 p.m. Sunday, May 4 in Van Cliburn Auditorium.

hen Melodi King’s mother wanted her and her sisters to begin piano lessons, she had no idea she would still be playing 14 years later.

Overall she enjoyed it, but at one point she did want to quit.

“My favorite thing about piano is probably all the different songs you get to play,” King said. “I really enjoy playing super fast songs and really pretty songs.

It’s just a lot of fun.”Although she has never competed, she has performed in numerous festivals and church services in Longview, her hometown.

She came to KC to earn her basics and enrolled in ensemble.

In addition to piano, she also plays the trumpet, trombone and clarinet.

Her favorite aspect of music is being able to express herself without words.

“When you perform a piece, you are showing the audience a side of yourself that you probably wouldn’t be able to express with words.”

A few of her favorite memories is playing a duet with her mom in a hymn festival.

“I’m not going to lie; we were awesome,” King said.

Another is her first performance with the KC Keyboard Orchestra.

“I remember being super nervous because it was all so new and so strange, but once we started playing I was able to loosen up and have fun with my friends.”

Piano has become more of a hobby since she has been in college, and she enjoys playing for the sake of playing.

One of her favorite songs is “Dumb Song” by Jon Schmidt.

Before enrolling in college, she took the infamous career test and graphic design was one of the options she had at the end. “[It] sounded like something I wanted to do,” she said. “Yeah, I’m pretty good at playing piano, but I don’t love it. With graphic design, I tried it for a semester and loved it.

I have always enjoyed doing things with the computer, and graphic design is all that plus some more.”

After completing her graphic arts degree, she is planning to jump into the workforce and hopefully land a job with an agency.

“Get a job as a graphic design artist, make lots of money, and hopefully someday meet the guy God intended for me and get married and have kids, and a dog,” she said. “I would also like to maybe try and get a job as a church pianist so I can keep my skills as a musician and serve God to my best potential.”

once. It’s hard to lose interest with something when it offers so many possibilities.”

In the future, Crowe hopes to establish a piano studio and possibly teach fundamentals at a college.

“Aside from that, I’ve always imagined myself teaching a studio that was half piano instruction, half yogurt and ice cream bar,” Crowe said. “If I could combine my two favorite things, music and frozen desserts, my life would be paradise.”

Students present concerto May 4 STAFF REPORTS Piano students will present annual concerto May 4 in Van Cliburn Auditorium The Kilgore College Fine Arts Department will present its annual Piano Concerto 3 p.m.

Sunday, May 4, in Van Cliburn Auditorium on the Kilgore campus.

Sophomore piano students will play solo pieces accompanied by a live orchestra conducted by Dr. Gene Moon.

This year’s music graduates will be recognized at the end of the concert with a reception.

Featured performers in the event include: Seth Briley, Longview; Brittany Crowe, Longview; Corey Daniels, Henderson; Melodi King, Longview; Alan Zamarron, Gilmer; and Dean Peiskee (former KC piano student who is now a doctoral student at Florida State University – from Jacksonville, Fla.) The concert is free and open to the public. No children under the age of 6 will be permitted to enter.

For more information, contact piano instructor Sandra Siler at (903) 983-8120.

IF YOU GO WHAT A DRAG Photographer Mark J. Rebilas from Arizona photographs the Rangerettes and Steve Torrence’s dragster while being videoed by KLTV. Randi Vinson-Davis / THE FLARE

WHERE: Van Cliburn Auditorium WHEN: 3 p.m. Sunday, May 4 COST: Free

ONLINE Get the latest scores, schedules, news and video online at

OPINION

FRIDAY, APRIL 25, 2014

9

Walk

on!

Jamie Maldonado / SPECIAL TO THE FLARE

What are you going to do this summer?

“[Going to] Nebraska”

“I’m hoping to just work some, save money, and take frequent trips to Six Flags.”

Miriam Navarro Lamesa freshman

Carmen Dunnavant Longview Freshman

“Camp a lot, Avenge

“I’m Traveling to Belize for a mission trip. I am also preparing for school in Fort Worth so I have a lot of moving to do.

mudding.“

Gregory Cowdill Longview freshman

Willie Edwards Gladewater freshman

Photographs by Maria Zapata / THE FLARE

YOUR VIEW

Community college graduation ceremony a big deal too

G

raduation is something in which students should take pride in.

People treat high school graduation as the first big milestone in a person’s life, but what about after that?

Dressing up in a cap and gown, sitting among your peers you have been with for some time and walking across the stage to receive your degree are moments a person remembers forever.

If you have taken the time and put in the hard work to earn a degree or certificate, you have completed your next milestone.

Apparently, fewer than half of KC’s spring graduates do not see earning a two-year degree or certificate as a such a milestone.

Of the 607 degrees or certificates scheduled to be awarded, a total of

319 students are participating in the ceremony.

Why? Students should take pride in walking, because it is a sense of tangible satisfaction when you are handed your diploma.

You are one of the minorities!

According to hechingerreport.org, over the last 20 years, the number of graduates with associate’s degrees in the United States has increased by barely 3 percent.

Take pride in being a KC graduate.

Graduation ceremonies are at 2 p.m. and 6 p.m. Friday, May 9. Geology instructor Paul Buchanan will be the commencement speaker in Dodson Auditorium.

Even if you are not graduating, make plans to attend and support your fellow students.

Sophomore ready for next big change

W

hen I am not sure how to carry out a task, I look at what others did before me for inspiration.

I read the past two end-ofthe-year columns written by Flare editors and they had content mine cannot.

Spring 2013 ended the Bettye Craddock era and began the Gary Borders one.

All of my sophomore friends at the time asked me how I thought the next year would go with subconscious skepticism in their voices, after all Craddock had been here for 30 plus years.

Change shocks some people, and makes them uneasy, unsure.

I think change wakes me up.

A person can never be too sure of their

current state, because anything can happen.

You could lose your job, have a medical emergency or get some other form of life changing news.

It was a Wednesday night after all the staffers had left when Craddock told the two co-executive ASHLEY editors, advertising MORALES manager and myself the Executive news.

Editor You could feel the shock in the air more than you could see it on their faces.

I was near the back of the room and she was mostly looking at me as she spoke, as

The Flare EXECUTIVE EDITOR Ashley Morales

ILLUSTRATOR Cody Davis

ASSISTANT EDITOR Dezirae Burnett

LAB MANAGER Jamie Maldonado

FEATURES EDITOR Tory Van Blarcum

ADVISER Gary Borders

SPORTS WRITER Devin Brooks

PHOTO ADVISER O. Rufus Lovett

VOL. 77, NO. 20

I would be the only one returning for the next semester.

Everyone looked back at me with wide eyes, but I just sat in my chair letting the news sink in.

I was asked by friends (to the point of annoyance) “what I was going to do” and “how I was going to do it,” and I just said I’d do what they have been doing all along.

When people don’t have control over a situation, I’ve seen them shut down or resist.

I think to be a leader or a successful person, we must welcome change, because whether you resist it or not, it’s going to happen.

To say the least, it’s been a pretty successful year.

Friday, April 25, 2014

Borders has taught us new things and served up fresh ideas to improve and strengthen our publication.

Twenty issues later, I’m ready for the next change in my life, which is transferring to Texas Tech University, hours away from what I am used to.

No more KC which is only a four Taylor Swift songs drive away.

No more pollen everywhere.

No more University of Texas and A&M products everywhere I look.

I’m not sure what to expect, but I welcome it with open arms.

Ashley Morales is a sophomore journalism major from Longview.

LETTERS

ADVERTISING MANAGER Sonia Garza

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

SENIOR WRITER Maegan Mitchell

DISCLAIMER

Copyright 2014, The Flare. All rights reserved.

STAFF WRITERS Christine Ritter, Jordan Baird, Brandon Pearl, Camron Portley and Ellen Reid PHOTOGRAPHERS Michael Brown, Kristopher Dobbins, Brandon Feagans, Sonia Garza, Laura Hernandez, Sara Holmes, Charity Mezzell, Will Pritchard, Joshua Roché, Karyn Sage, Stormy Scott and Maria Zapata

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.

10

SPOTLIGHT

FRIDAY, APRIL 25, 2014

MUDBUG MANIA Stormy Scott / THE FLARE

Sarah Smith,

THE FLARE

Rodney Murphy,

THE FLARE

A student holds up

Karyn Sage / THE FLARE

THE FLARE

A worker

A KC student