‘Rosencrantz and Guildenstern’ lives on VICTORIA WHITWELL Managing Editor
T
he weeks are counting down to the opening night of Rosencrantz and Guildenstern Are Dead. Originally planned to open in the Fall 2014 semester, the play was postponed due to unforeseen setbacks. With a new year, a new semester, and even some new people in the cast, the theatre department is “working quickly and efficiently” in high hopes for the production. “I’ve struggled with how to classify what we’re doing as a second chance or as a continuation or to just think of [Rosencrantz and Guildenstern Are Dead] as something fresh and new that hasn’t been done before,” said Micah Goodding, director. “I’m comfortable with a combination of
all three.” Goodding and the cast see this opportunity as a “benefit to explore things they only were able to touch on in the past.” Given four more weeks to work on the show, Goodding has had more time to think about the thematic elements of the play and focus more on the details that worked for the production. “There is no wasted time for the ideas that didn’t work,” Goodding said. “We now have a specific idea, can revisit some original ideas, and then go deeper into them. What makes this play so special is that it is the type of play you can spend a lot of time on.” The play may be the same, but there is a new “mix of people” in the cast. Some people may have the same roles, while others have been switched. Due to some students graduating or moving on, there
are new accompanying members in the cast as well. One of these new members is Taylor Farrell, who plays Rosencrantz. According to Goodding, Farrell was never able to participate in productions due to what his previous major required of him schedule-wise. Now that Farrell has chosen theatre as his major, he is able to do what he always has wanted to do. Sheridan Baze who plays both Horatio and a guard, along with Dera Cardozo who plays an ambassador are also new to the cast. Both cast members have had experience in theatre from high school, but “Rosencrantz and Guildenstern are Dead” is their first college theatre production. Goodding is confident that the new cast members will catch up with See THEATRE on Page
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From left: Taylor Farrell, Reid McDonald and Brett Lee rehearse a scene from Rosencrantz and Guildenstern are Dead, which will run Tuesday, Feb. 24 through Sunday, March 1.
The Flare
Friday, February 6, 2015 Vol. 78 No. 13 Serving Kilgore College since 1936
Capitol Day in Austin Community College Day aims to strengthen future of Texas KATHRYN AGEE Executive Editor KC faculty and student representatives from The Flare, PTK, SGA, and TRIO. KC President Bill Holda was also in attendance. The bi-annual Community College Day was hosted by the Texas Association of Community Colleges at the Capitol in Austin on Tuesday, Feb. 3rd. The TACC has worked with students, faculty, and administrators from community colleges all over Texas to host Community College Day. It affords students the chance to tell their stories of how community college has changed their lives to their legislators face to face. Community College Day begins with a rally on the steps of the Capitol. The importance of community colleges to Texas’ future was a common thread in the testimonies given by the speakers. Dr. Richard Rhodes, president of Austin Community College, spoke of the importance of students letting their legislators know about their personal community college experience. “Telling your story is critical,” he said. “The pathway to success is through community college.” Lydia Santibanez, the Community College Association of Texas Trustees Chair, said this year’s gathering was the largest number of attendees for Community College Day. “Know all of you are seeking education that will enhance your life and the Texas economy. Community college is an affordable and quality pathway to education.” The keynote speaker was Representative Jimmie Don Aycock. He was elected to the Texas Legislature in 2006, and is the chairman of the public education committee. Aycock authored House Bill 5, which passed in 2013. This bill restructured graduation and testing requirements in Texas. “I care deeply about education at all levels,” he said. “You are the future of Texas. Community college is an integral part of the education process.” Like Rhodes, he encouraged students to “tell your stories, speak your mind.” He told his story of being on his family’s cotton patch when his mother ran up to him with his college acceptance letter, and how many community college students are the first members of their family to attend college. “Today I stand before you humbly,” he said. “What you are doing will change not just your life, but the lives of your children and grandchildren. Hang with it, it’s worth it. Don’t give up, find something that moves you forward in life.” Senator Larry Taylor of District 11 spoke of the many doors community college can open. “We live in a land of freedom where opportunity reigns,” he said. “A dream is only a dream until you make it come true. Community college can make that dream come true. Many different dreams and paths led all of you to community college to make your dreams a reality. You are not only improving THE FLARE
College students, faculty and administrators rally on the steps of the Capitol in Austin for Community College Day 2015.
Job fairs, site offer employment opportunities JULIANNA KENDALL Staff Writer KC will be holding the Health Occupations Job Fair 1-3 p.m., Feb. 17, and the Spring Job Fair 9-11 a.m., March 5, in the Devall Student Center Ballroom. “It’s a great opportunity for students to find more about the career they want to pursue, or if they don’t know, what is out there after graduating from college,”
Candace Heezen, Career Service support specialist, said. The job fairs will allow students to speak to employers about upcoming job opportunities within their workforce, as well as learn more information about what the jobs have to offer. There will be many hospitals and other healthcare facilities being represented at the Health Occupations Job Fair. Some include: Good Shepherd Medical
Center, The Willows, East Texas Treatment Facility and Rusk State Hospital. The Spring Job Fair will have many East Texas police departments being represented, as well as the Dallas Police Department. Other possible employers include: Convergys, FESCO, Alpha Pipeline Integrity Services and Longview ISD. “We have had many students prepared with resumés and
ended up getting a job because they were able to talk to them and show them what they have to offer,” Heezen said. Students can visit the KC website and find Job Search Tools and Resources under Career Services and select “Optimal Resume.” Students will then be able to insert their information, submit it and allow it to be reviewed by the career services personnel.
See CAPITOL on Page 8
DROP DEADLINE The 12th class day which students could withdraw from a class without a W. Students are still able to withdraw from classes, but as a result, they will earn no credit hours. The state of Texas allows 6 W’s total for a student’s college career. Consult the Registrar’s be dropped.
Sweet gifts make for a special Valentine’s Day Valentine’s Day is approaching soon, and some people are still trying to figure out what to get for their significant other. With a little help from BuzzFeed, below are some failproof gifts! Giftwrap a mason jar full of only Lucky Charms marshmallows. “I only eat the marshmallows to get to the cereal,” said no one ever. Show some appreciation by giving your Valentine what he or she really wants! Share your Netflix password. Not only does this gift opens a door to a new form of cheap entertainment, but it also opens a door to a new level of trust. Only give this gift with your best judgment though. Give them 52 reasons. Take a deck of cards and put a reason why
you love your Valentine on each card. So sweet! Have you “REESEntly” told your Valentine you love them? Nothing says, “I love you” like peanut butter and chocolate! Any pun-lover is sure to love a box of Reese’s peanut butter cups with a note that writes, “Have I “REESEntly told you how much I appreciate you?” Bake a heart cake. Make a gift you’ll both enjoy! Cut a circle cake in half, and add those pieces to the adjacent corners of a square cake. Decorate it with icing and sprinkles. Yum! Create a compliment jar. For the not-so-good days, your Valentine will always have their compliment jar to make them feel better! Write down all your positivity on colorful strips
of paper and stuff them in a jar with decorations that come from your heart. Buy your Valentine breakfast. Start off the day with your Valentine’s breakfast of choice! Make a personal Valentine’s Day playlist. Create an atmosphere of love with your Valentine’s favorite songs. Show that you care by letting them play all day! Spend a night under the stars in the city of stars. Go stargazing at night. Take some time to just connect under the stars at a park. Make a memory mosaic. Create a piece of art by putting together a mosaic filled with memories, pictures, and so on. Any Valentine would appreciate this walk down memory lane!
PAGE T WO THIS WEEK BY THE NUMBERS
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February 11 is the day KC students will receive their Students must attend a
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Jamaican reggae singer-
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Stay winter grounded in cold days
FACE IN THE CROWD
TIFFANY GRIGG Staff Writer Climbing out from his cozy burrow, Punxsutawney Phil, a world famous groundhog and part-time weather forecaster, predicted six more weeks of winter this past Monday, Feb. 2, so don’t put your winter gear away just yet. Dating back to 1887, the tradition was born in the town of Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania. Originally the groundhog was named Pete, but due to a journalist’s typo in a published article, the groundhog’s name was changed to Phil, and Phil it has stayed. To remain safe throughout the remaining wintery days, KC students are encouraged to adhere to the following winter safety tips: • Student drivers must check the cold temperature PKI of tires to ensure their tire pressure is at the right level • Dress warmly and wear sensible shoes for the cold weather • Carry an ice scraper and de-icer in your car and make sure you can see out of all windows before setting out • In case of snow, carry a bag of kitty litter in your car; it provides traction for tires if your vehicle gets stuck • Allow more time for your commute; roads can get icy in colder temperatures, especially after a night of rain • Be careful walking around campus, mainly the bridge, which can ice over • Allow your car to warm up before you leave; ensure your defroster is on Be safe and stay warm!
NTHS awards for students MAX CERVANTES Staff Writer
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Christina Lloyd Why did you decide to attend Kilgore College? I picked Kilgore because I really wanted to be a twirler there, and unlike huge universities I knew I wouldn’t get lost going to class, which is something that happens to me a lot. What do you look forward to accomplishing this semester? This semester I would really like to improve my acting, karate, and twirling skills! What are some of your favorite memories as a twirler? My favorite memories are half-time at the football games. Nothing beats the adrenaline rush and excitement of performing on the field! What are some of your favorite classes and teachers at KC? I’d have to say the theatre classes I’m taking (sorry algebra). My favorite teachers are my theatre teacher Mr. Goodding, English teacher Mr. Harris (because he’s really funny) and my twirling teacher Ms. Paige. What are the fandoms closest to your heart? Harry Potter, Jonjou Romantica (I’m not afraid to admit this!), Korean drama Playful Kiss, and definitely Fairy Tail. When it comes to these four I am a HUGE fangirl! Which Hogwarts house are you a member of ? Ravenclaw house, baby! I guess I can’t help being so clever. XD How do you come up with your clothing style? I really don’t know. At my high school, we had uniforms and a dress code. When I went to college, I kind of just went crazy with clothes! A lot of my clothing influences come from Hot Topic combined with Korean styles. What fictional character would you most like to meet?
Age: 18 Hometown: Kilgore Freshman If I could meet a fictional character it would have to be Dumbledore. He’s such a wise and interesting character that I often wonder what crazy stuff he’d say to me. Who is your favorite comic book hero and villain and why? My favorite comic book hero is Batman because he’s the ultimate hero. He overcame his past and trained himself to become someone people can count on. My favorite villain would have to be the Joker because he’s so sadistic and creepy and truthfully, I know it’s pretty weird, but I have a crush on him. What is the biggest challenge you have had to overcome in your life? Definitely losing my mom and dad when I was a child. Even though I have a loving family now, I’ve always missed and longed for my biological family. Coffee or tea? Coffee, preferably chocolate chip frappés. I have a serious addiction to caffeine. If you could take a vacation to any place, where would you go and why? I would go to South Korea because it’s somewhere I’ve been planning on going and I just really love Korean culture and style. Where do you see yourself in ten years? In ten years? Sexy, out of college, a starring actress, and engaged to Darren Criss. Hey, you asked!
The National Technical Honor Society (NTHS) is an honor society for outstanding career and technical students of workforce vocational education institutions in the United States. It was established in 1984 because little was being done to acknowledge career and technical education. NTHS offers scholarships to its members. It also provides letters of recommendation and opportunities to be recruited by top corporations throughout the United States. “I was honored,” said Vanesa Blackshire, Longview sophomore and charter member of KC’s NTHS. “My hard work got me noticed.” NTHS also offers the chance for people to be inducted into an honor society who have never had an opportunity. “The most exciting part was seeing my children see me being inducted,” Blackshire said. Other benefits include personal letters of recommendation for employment, college admission and scholarships provided by NTHS National Headquarters. Members also receive a membership certificate, presentation folder, pin, ID card, graduation tassel, a letter of recommendation customized for the student’s career portfolio and official NTHS seal to be applied to the member’s diploma or training certificate. In order to be invited to be a member of the NTHS, a student must be nominated by an instructor. The instructor uses the following criteria in order to be selected nominees: The student must have a 3.5 GPA, good attendance, exemplary classroom performance and have completed at least 15 hours in their major field. For more info, contact Traci Thompson or Sheri Burlingame at 903-236-2007.
NEWS Thank you cards inspire nationwide journey PAGE
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THE FLARE FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 6, 2015
DAVID MCCARTY Staff Writer
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center, with gifts in return for the Thank You card she sent them, and also for her work to help raise appreciation for police departments.
avannah Solis, a 10 year old girl from Chapel Hill Elementary School, spent her Christmas break preparing thank you cards for police officers across America. During this time she personally created more than 600 cards and has traveled to more than 20 police departments. Her sole purpose is to simply thank officers for all that they do. With the police incidents that have occurred recently, this young girl wants to inspire and thank thousands of officers for their dediation and sacrifice. In a letter she read to the KCPD, she stated that she is “honored to speak for her generation.” My goal is to tell as many police officers as I can that I love them and that I’m thankful for all that they do for us” she said. Giving inspiration to the people who serve communities she went on to say, “My heroes, I want to say don’t stop, please don’t give up. Many do not care or appreciate the sacrifice that you make, but I do.” With a compelling speech that was drawing tears like a fresh onion, this girl simply appreciates everything that the police officers do. She got on the
intercom at her school and inspired other students to write thank you notes. Solis was inspired to thank offciers after she saw an interview on TV about the New York City police assassination. The loss of the officers really hit home. She has personally written letters to the family of Rafael Ramos and Wenjian Liu. She has been invited to share a platform with Ramos in New York City where she will be able to thank NYPD officers personally. Solis plans on growing up to become a police officer herself, specifically a K-9 Officer. The love that she shares has inspired others. She shows that a young person can inspire change the world, and that is exactly what she is doing. She said many people do not give the proper amount of respect to the officers that risk their life daily for our protection. And that’s exactly what she is trying to prove. “Savanna, you’re a real blessing to us”, said KCPD Chief, Heath Cariker. Jack Lanier and his fellow officers gave a small statue of a policeman and a young child along with badges and other gifts. She started a fund for fallen and wounded police officers, selling T-shirts with her slogan “They matter to me” written across them. The shirts are $20 and goes toward a scholarship fund
for the families of the fallen officers. Her next stop will be in Fort Worth to deliver a check and T-shirt to the police officer that was shot, simply just to say thank you. “We need good kids like we need good cops,” Cariker said. She stated, “Please keep taking care of us because I will always respect you, I will always honor you and I will always pray that God keeps you safe.” To get involved with Solis’ mission or purchase one of her shirts, visit the page “Help Savanna Say Thank You” on Facebook.
Secondary Art Symposium Friday HUNTER LOHR Entertainment Editor The KC Visual Arts Programs will host the annual Secondary Art Symposium for secondary school and their students on Friday, Feb. 6, from 8:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. on the Kilgore Campus Student portfolios will be on display Friday morning in the Devall Student Center Ballroom followed by art demonstrations and critiques of students’ pieces in Van Cliburn Auditorium. KC is expecting 300 students to attend the event. Awards will be presented to students for outstanding portfolios, including 10
scholarships to KC, ranging from $800 to $2,000. Winning entries will be announced at 1:15 p.m. in Van Cliburn Auditorium “The purpose of the symposium is to avail professionals (artists/instructors) for consultation and demonstrations that might provide insight and renew enthusiasm for teaching art,” said Carolyn FoxHearne, KC art instructor and gallery director. The symposium will also provide the opportunity for teachers and students to see a cross-section of work from schools participating in the High School Portfolio Competition, sponsored by the KC Art Department.
THEATRE: Postponement gives time for additional work FROM PAGE 1 the others. As for the older cast members, Goodding is taking the added time he’s been given to allow these members to go deeper into their roles and have an even richer understanding of the humanistic themes of the play such as death, passing of time, and the beauty of the characters’ lives knowing the outcome of the play. For all members of the production, Goodding hopes that they enjoy the creative process as much as he does and wants to “dwell on the deserving with a sense of urgency.” “Maintaining flexibility and having new experiences are essential skills for theatre training,” Goodding said. “There is still the unpredictable, so the [cast members and technicians] need to be prepared.” Though Goodding says there is something Rosencrantz and Guildenstern Are Dead has for someone at every level, he believes the more familiar someone is with Hamlet, the better. He also emphasizes that in spite
of the play’s central theme being death, Rosencrantz and Guildenstern successfully explores this theme without being dark or morbid. Goodding added that with his casts’ familiarity with the theme of death, the production is “approached with a lot of maturity.” The KC Theatre Department will present Rosencrantz and Guildenstern are Dead beginning at 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 24, through Friday, Feb. 27, with a matinee performance at 2:30 p.m. Sunday, March 1 in the Van Cliburn Auditorium. General admission tickets are $10 for adults, $7 for students and $5 for KC students with a student ID. The play is appropriate for all ages, however, children under the age of seven will not be admitted. Late arrivals will also not be admitted. The box office will open one hour prior to each performance. For reservations, call 903-9838126 or email the KC Theatre Box Office at boxoffice@ kilgore.edu. Reserved tickets may be picked up at the Box Office beginning one hour before the performance.
Students from area counties attending the symposium will enter art portfolios judged by jurors Merrie Wright and James Pace, art professors at UT Tyler. For more information call Fox-Hearne at 903-983-8128.
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THE FLARE FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 6, 2015
SPORTS
Rangers poised for playoffs KC moves into 4th in conference following three straight wins DEVIN BROOKS Sports Editor The KC Rangers Men’s basketball team wins yet another close game in this heavily competitive conference. They defeated their rival the Tyler Junior College Apaches 68-63 to move into a tie for fourth place in the National Junior College Athletic Association Region 14 conference. KC is 15-7 on the year and 7-5 in conference play to this point. They are about to start the second half to their conference games, and they need all the wins they can get to inch closer to that first place spot which is currently tied with Trinity Valley Community College and San Jacinto College who both have 10-2 records in conference. KC once again made plays down the stretch that secured the win. They are on a three game winning streak, and they have proved that they can win close games when it is down to the wire. They shot
33 percent from the field for the game and 43 percent from the three-point line. They also shot 78 percent from the free throw line, which proved to be their strength when the game is on the line. KC has won 4 out of their last 5 games which have all been decided by less than 13 points, and in all four of the five wins they have found a way to make clutch free throws and clutch baskets around the rim while keeping the opponent from scoring. That is something that they have shown all season long. When the game is tight and the time is running short KC seems to find a way to pull out the victory. They find a way to win even when it looks like they will lose. That has been their headline lately throughout these last five games. That’s a trait that every team needs to be successful in this conference. KC had 33 rebounds for the game. TJC held KC to just one shot for most of the game because KC had four
offensive rebounds plus 29 defensive rebounds. Both teams kept each other off the glass on the offensive end. KC dished out assists as a team and only committed 11 turnovers for the game. Guard Bakari Copeland recorded a huge doubledouble in the win. He poured in a season-high 25 points and 10 rebounds including four three pointers and 11 out of 14 free-throws for the game while Jonathan Milligan scored 20 points along with 12 huge free-throws and he dished out four assists. KC will look to continue their winning ways in their next game when they host the first place the TVCC Cardinals. The last time TVCC came to Kilgore they lost by single-digits in a back-and forth thriller. KC lost to TVCC earlier this year by three points when they traveled to Athens so they hope to avenge their loss and defeat them in the front of the home crowd. Tip-off is set for 4 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 7, at Masters Gymnasium.
E’Lexus Hodge / THE FLARE
Myron Chapman takes a hard drive to the rim against the Tyler Junior College Apaches.
SIGNING DAY RESULTS
NAME
HT
WT
POS
HIGH SCHOOL
Marcus Allen
6’0
215
LB
Dickinson
31 new recruits sign to play with the KC Ranger football team for the 2015-16 season.
Josh Bolfing
6’1
185
QB
Montgomery
Garrett Bowery
6’2
285
OL
Union Grove
Devin Dudley
6’3
275
OL
Houston Westside
Troy Duran
6’0
180
K/P
Longview – Spring Hill
Marquice Dye
5’11
180
DB
Elberton, Ga.
Quay Evans
6’0
260
DL
Mt. Vernon
Tyarius Hackett
6’2
205
LB
Alto
De’Angelo Hubert
6’0
210
LB
South Grand Prairie
Kendall Jennings
6’2
270
OL
Jaylon Johnson
6’1
180
Khalil Johnson
6’6
250
D’Marcus Lott
6’0
280
DL
Dallas – South Oak Cliff
Cameron Martin
6’1
225
QB
Dickinson
Javon Mosley
6’7
305
OL
Ft. Worth – O.D. Wyatt
Ja’VieOntae Mumphrey
6’4
215
DE
Alto
Nick Orange
6’3
195
WR
Kilgore
L’Darius Pope
5’11
185
ATH
Alto
Jack Rogers
5’11
175
K
White Oak
Jamez Russell
6’3
285
OL
Spring Dekaney
Shannon Simpson
5’10
230
RB
Lancaster
Keeyon Smart
6’5
310
OL
Baton Rouge, La.
DeSoto
Anthony Smith
6’2
225
DL
Dallas – Skyline
DB
Baton Rouge, La.
Will Smith
5’10
175
ATH
Hempstead
DE
Dallas – Kimball
Fredarian Tompkins
6’4
250
DE
Hempstead
Takadrae Williams
6’2
175
DB
Dallas – South Oak Cliff
Jarod Wood
6’2
205
TE
Kilgore
Keffrien Wydermyer
6’1
175
DB
Dickinson
Quindarius Kizzee
6’4
225
TE
Huntsville
Corian LeDay
6’2
270
DL
LaMarque
Alex Latham
6’6
215
ATH
Clevland Tarkington
Let us help you look ready to work! Show up to our job fairs prepared with help from Career Services. We can assist you in preparing your resumé at our office in the Student Support Building, Room 111. Or call or e-mail us to talk about other ways we can help you take a solid first step on your chosen career path. 903-983-8678 or careerservices@kilgore.edu
SPORTS
THE FLARE FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 6, 2015
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Lady Rangers on the ball DEVIN BROOKS Sports Editor The KC Lady Rangers were defeated by the Tyler Junior College Lady Apaches 80-75 giving them their third straight loss during conference play. This loss puts KC at 6-14 overall with a 3-10 conference record. They are currently in tenth place in the conference. KC played TJC close the entire game. They shot 36 percent from the field for the game, 64 percent from the free throw line, but only 9 percent from the three-point line. KC has a 4-8 record this season when they shoot 20 or less percent from the three-point line with most of the losses coming in conference play. KC has battled through injuries all season. They have had numerous injuries to key post players and guards that have hindered them from playing up to their full potential for most of the season. KC was outrebounded by the Lady Apaches 67 to 26. The biggest stat of the game is that TJC had 42 offensive rebounds to KC’s nine, which means they had
numerous second chance opportunities to score instead of just one per possession. KC couldn’t hold TJC off the boards and that is one glaring stat that gave TJC an advantage in the game. KC has limited size in the paint due to injuries and TJC took full advantage down in the paint. KC also had 27 turnovers to TJC’s 17. Rebounds and turnovers are a big part of basketball and the Lady Rangers struggled to produce in both of those categories in this game. Guard Imaobong Akpan led KC with 19 points and two blocks and two rebounds. Mariah Hopkins added eight points and two blocks for the game. KC’s next contest will be against the two-time defending NJCAA Champions Trinity Valley Community College Lady Cardinals. KC lost to TVCC in their last meeting 70-49 so they are looking to get some redemption the second time around. That game will tip-off at 2 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 7, at Masters Gymnasium.
Join the dance party with zumba ELIJAH BANKS Staff Writer
THE FLARE
Darreion Clark takes on a Tyler Junior College defender.
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Ryanne Lunceford
Lady Rangers stumble in opener LOGAN HOLLOWAY Staff Writer KC’s softball team started their season on Friday, Jan. 30, in the Galveston Tournament, splitting two games. In the early matchup versus Blinn, the Rangers fell into a quick 6-0 deficit before finally suffering an 8-1 defeat. In the late game against the Alvin Community College Lady Dolphins, the Lady Rangers were able to rally behind two sixth inning doubles from Lexi Lopez and Marisa Ledkins, each earning an RBI, to climb out of a 6-5 hole and take the eventual final lead with a score of 7-6. Hayley Vavra was handed
the loss versus Blinn, striking out two and walking six while allowing five runs on nine hits in seven innings. Bianca Van Vlerah had two of the Rangers four hits in the defeat, including a double, and Lexi Lopez and Vavra each added singles as well. Leandra Lopez led the Lady Rangers with three singles in the victory with her final one resulting in Ledkins’ RBI. Morgan Woodruff went 2-3 at the plate and earned an RBI as well. Ledkins, Lexi Lopez, Renee Jones, Hayley McCullers and Angelica Gonzalez each contributed a hit. Jordyn Rogers earned the win, striking out seven and allowing four runs on
10 hits in seven innings. KC completed tournament play with a 1-4 record. In the 4-2 loss to McLennan, Van Vlerah singled and doubled, and Lexi Lopez and Ledkins each earned RBIs, while Vavra shouldered the pitching loss. Rogers was dealt the 4-0 defeat by San Jacinto while Taylor Sieber led the team with three hits on three at bats. Jones, Gonzalez and Mallory Ford each contributed a hit. In a 15-5 loss to LSUEunice, Lexi Lopez tripled and drove in two runs, while Ledkins doubled, singled and earned one RBI. Keambria Hunter also drove in a run on one hit. Jones earned the pitching loss.
KC splits double header in home opener RICHARD NGUYEN Assistant Sports Editor The Lady Rangers split a double header against the Grayson County College Lady Vikings on Wednesday. The Lady Vikings took the first game with a convincing 11-0 win. KC committed five errors, costing them four runs. Jordan Gunderson
led Grayson behind a dominating pitching effort. Gunderson pitched the entire game, allowing 4 hits. The Lady Rangers answered in the second game with a 7-3 victory behind strong hitting from Madison Goolsby, Mariah Goguen, and Mallory Ford who all contributed two hits in a 12-hit game for KC. Jordyn Rogers pitched a nearly flawless game for the
Lady Rangers despite giving up a run in first inning. The Lady Rangers offense would explode in the third inning, scoring five runs behind Renee Jones’ three RBIs. The Lady Rangers will host the KC Invitational Saturday, Feb. 7, at StreamFlo Field in Kilgore. KC will play Cisco College at 10 a.m. and McLennan Community College at 4 p.m.
The cardio workout known as a “dancing fitness party” called zumba is held in the Fitness Center in the afternoons on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays from 1 p.m. to 1:50 p.m. and at night on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. Aqua Zumba is also available in the Fitness Center on Wednesdays from 2 p.m. to 3 p.m. Full time KC employees and students are able to join the class for free, as long as they have their KC ID. The cost for a non-student or full time employee is $37 per month, and the family package is $47 a month. The cost for seniors 65 or older, and part–time students is $20. For one day, the cost is only $5. Zumba is an aerobic workout that mainly consists of Latin
THE FLARE
Connie Vancini
movements and dance steps. The two instructors are Carmen Millard and Connie Vancini. Millard teaches the afternoon class while Vancini instructs the night classes. Samrawit Gebrehiowt,
Waco freshman said, “I love zumba because it’s a lot of exercise, fun, and I love to dance”. For more information about the class, you can call Parks Fitness Center 903983-8631
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THE FLARE FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 6, 2015
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OPINION
THE FLARE FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 6, 2015
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From the Editors:
I
n November 2014, KC came under fire when a college employee said there was asbestos on the college campus, and that it has been for years. We want to have all the correct information before reporting on the status of asbestos on the campus. There have been statements of unethical actions from those involved and the way
the story has been handled in the media. Since the story involves KC, we want to make sure the school and the actions of those involved are represented as accurately as possible. We want to make sure students are kept aware of something as important as their health and safety. This event has hurt KC’s public image on both sides. If there is a health risk
from being on campus, KC should let the students know and try and handle the fallout as well as possible. If there is no health risk, then the Longview-News Journal’s initial report of asbestos will have seriously hurt KC’s public image for no reason. KC had an Environmental Protection Agency visit in October. Some board
members were unsatisfied with the results of the visit and wanted further tests done to ensure the safety of everyone on campus. Within the last few months, tests have been conducted on buildings that were said to have had asbestos. The results of these tests have not currently been announced. As soon as the results come in, we will report what was found.
It’s not all about
U.S. Jessica Easley / THE FLARE
“Honestly, I would feel betrayed. We cover every story from every country and for the world to not respond to our disaster, it would be inconsiderate.”
“I would be mad, if they can respond and talk about everything else they can respond and let us know when our lives are in danger.”
Brooke McNatt Brownsville, Tenn. freshman
Chelsie Glover Longview freshman
“I would be upset.”
“Although I am often reluctant to trust things I hear through the media, I would feel slightly betrayed not knowing what is going on, as if someone were keeping secrets from us.”
Jimmie Hughes Fort Worth freshman
Tragedy should not be treated as disposable entertainment
How would you feel if America was attacked and the world’s media didn’t respond? Photographs by Jon Nieto / THE FLARE
YOUR VIEW
Jadyn Batehelom Prescott, Ariz. freshman
The Flare
VOL. 78, NO.13
T
here is nothing more passively entertaining than the American media. For the people taking the time to read, how long will this message stick before the next “tragedy” takes place? We don’t get enough likes for our social networking facades and our Nikes are so last season. How do we even make it through the day without wearing our too-tight pink leggings as we sip on some Starbucks flat white? We definitely can’t walk out the door without our Fitbits. Like literally, we can’t. Oh by the way, the Boko Haram viciously slaughtered more than 40 people in Nigeria within the recent week, according to the Associated Press. An eight-year-old boy in France is defending the terrorists who “left 12 people dead and launched three days of terror in the Paris region that killed a total of 20 people” in the Charlie Hebdo attacks. Has anyone heard the latest news of the Japanese journalist being held hostage? Literally, we can’t. We can’t continue to allow the shadows of our materialistic worries to cast over our hearts for these people. We hear about the tragedies, but do we actually listen? It wasn’t until a few months ago that I even knew what the Boko Haram was, and they have been around for at least 13 years. The only way I knew about them was from my friend who is an exchange student from Nigeria. It took someone to travel 6,450 miles to inform me on a terrorist movement that could have easily been covered
Friday, February 6, 2015
Copyright 2015, The Flare. All rights reserved.
EXECUTIVE EDITOR Kathryn Agee
SPORTS EDITOR Devin Brooks
ADVERTISING MANAGER David McCarty
MANAGING EDITOR Victoria Whitwell
ASSISTANT SPORTS EDITOR Richard Nguyen
STAFF WRITERS Elijah Banks, Max Cervantes, Julianna Kendall and Nick Shelley
DESIGN EDITOR Tory Van Blarcum
PHOTOGRAPHERS Michael Brown, Rain Cohn, Jessica Easley, E’Lexus Hodge, Sara Holmes,
FEATURES EDITOR Leah Bryce COPY EDITOR Dustin Taylor OPINION EDITOR Jordan Baird
ENTERTAINMENT EDITOR Hunter Lohr
Walls, Kaelie Wike and Maria Zapata
LAB MANAGER Jamie Maldonado PHOTO ADVISER O. Rufus Lovett ADVISER Rachel Stallard
in the American media. Then again, I was probably too worried about my eyebrows being “on fleek” to even give this matter the time of day. I didn’t realize the depth of my ignorance towards these people’s sufferings until a living, breathing soul from the VICTORIA very country of WHITWELL this terrorism Managing Editor expressed her concerns for her family and friends. Once enlightened, my heart dropped knowing the story would soon be forgotten. When did the news become entertainment? A better question: when did society give permission for the news to become entertainment? The headline’s nice. The pictures are grotesque. The story is informative. “At least it’s them and not us. Where are we going to eat?” This is the harsh reality for the empathetic conditions of the American majority. Now some people would say that Nigeria is still a developing country which makes them more vulnerable to these acts of terrorism, so Americans can’t really empathize. What about Paris, France? This first world country was attacked in broad daylight. Somehow that’s not enough. Maybe the irony of an Islamic terrorist group getting revenge on the satirical publication will spice up the story, right? Whatever can pull on my
American heartstrings for fifteen minutes. These American heartstrings that have been hardened by the petty cares of this world that I mistakenly thought revolved around me. The same American heartstrings that only process the demographics of the injured and fatally wounded. What is more disturbing is that the American media only sees these events as their “next big story” and not the baby girl who was burned to death in front of her father before he was decapitated. Did anyone think about the Muslim police officer who was shot in the head defending the victims of the Islamic terrorist attack? The lives taken don’t meet the standards of importance compared to which shade of red lipstick Taylor Swift wears. Has it sunk in yet? If so, for how much longer? Either the American media needs to talk about these events more, or society needs to demand the American media to talk about these events more. American media cannot feed its nation solely on what its people want to hear. The coverage of world events should never have the intentions of tickling an audience’s ears, but to ignite a change for the better and an empathy to restore what has been lost. These tragedies aren’t attractions, but reminders that the nations as a human race have a responsibility for one another. Any more news on the Japanese hostage? Victoria Whitwell is a sophomore mass communications major for Kilgore.
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
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.
or the Board of Trustees.
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THE FLARE FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 6, 2015
SPOTLIGHT
Kathryn Agee / THE FLARE
Texas Gov. Greg Abbott speaks to Rattlesnake wranglers. Abbott was at the Capitol to meet with the Sweetwater Jaycees, who hold the annual Rattlesnake Roundup.
CC advocates speak out FROM PAGE 1 your life, you’re improving the lives of those around you.” He challenged instructors and leaders to “do more. Keep looking for ways to improve. Texas as a whole can only see their dreams when Texans make them a reality.” He ended his speech with “May God bless you and the great state of Texas.” The final speaker was Joel Mason of Collin College. Mason is the first student in Collin’s history to serve as the Texas Junior College Student Government Association president. He began his speech by asking everyone to upload pictures and articles on social media with the hashtags #BetterBeginsHere, #txlege, and #CCDay2015. “I strongly encourage you to speak to your representatives about the five point plan,” he said. “Think about why you’re here today. We’re empowering you so we have the ability to make real, positive changes. Make your college a better place. Let your voice be heard.” After the rally ended, group photos were taken of the attendees. Everyone then headed into the Capitol building to take tours and sit in on Senate and House meetings. The students took photos with the Sweetwater Jaycees, a group of rattlesnake wranglers. The snakes were on display outside on the Capitol Rotunda. This is the eighth year Representative Susan King of District 71 has brought “a bit of West Texas” to the Capitol. KC attendees briefly met Senator Kevin Eltife, who has more community colleges in his
From top left: Joel Mason, President of the Texas Junior College Student Government Association; Lydia Santibanez, Community College Association of Texas Trustees Chair; Richard Rhodes, President of Austin Community College; Larry Taylor, Senator and Representative of District 11; Jimmie Don Ayock, Representative of District 54; speak at Community College Day 2015 at The Texas Capitol.
district than any other Texas senator. Cheryl Vanek, Eltife’s chief of staff, said “Eltife really appreciates you coming. The
future of the community college is very important to him.” They also met with David Simpson of District 7, where
Kilgore is located. Simpson lives in Longview. He personally greeted everyone in the group and gave them his business card,
telling them to email him and visit his website. “I’m so glad to see you here and interested,” he said. Holda talked to Simpson on how we are working to improve the transferability of college credits, and standardizing math credits. They then talked about how House Bill 5 would affect the future of community college. The KC students took turns telling Simpson about their community college experiences and how it has affected their lives in positive ways. Simpson talked about the importance of “not being robots, not being slaves, but being free and responsible.” He addressed his sometimes unconventional voting by joking “I’m an equal opportunity offender.” He ended the meeting by saying “the best way to advance freedom is to understand and work with each other responsibly.” As the group prepared to leave the Capitol, photographers were spotted near the doors of the Rotunda. They were gathered around Texas Gov. Greg Abbott, who was there taking photographs with the Sweetwater Jaycees. Afterwards, Abbott greeted Holda and the KC students and took photographs with them. Community College Day 2015 was an informative and important event that let students experience how Texas government works first hand. Getting to talk to legislators and representatives at the Capitol let students know that their voices were being heard by those who have the power to enforce real change in community colleges. For more on the five-point plan, visit www.texastrustees.org.
“The best way to advance freedom is to understand and work with each other responsibly.” – Rep. David Simpson, District 7