Texas hero addresses fire graduates DAVID MCCARTY Advertising Manager The KC Fire Academy held its 94th class graduation, with 13 candidates completing the course on Wednesday night. Guest speaker was fellow firefighter Joe Yeakley, of Lindale, who received of the Star of Texas Award last September from Gov. Rick Perry. In January 2014 a roof collapsed on Yeakley as he was responding to a call with the Lindale Fire Department. More than half of his body was burned and he spent more than 10 months recovering in a Dallas hospital. Yeakley told the new graduates that he had chosen to become a fireman because, “I think it’s an excellent way to give back to
THE FLARE
Guest speaker Joe Yeakley
See ACADEMY on Page 3
The Flare
Friday, March 27, 2015 Vol. 78 No. 18 Serving Kilgore College since 1936
Sideline Signing
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Last day to drop with ‘W’ April 10 NICK SHELLEY Staff Writer The final day to withdraw from classes with a W for the spring semester is Friday, April 10. Students may need to visit with their academic adviser before they make a final decision to drop a course. “We want to make sure students know their options before dropping and any subsequent ramifications of this action,” said Chris Gore, director of admissions and registrar. Students on financial aid should also check with a financial adviser to see if any additional repercussions for dropping classes exist. Students can drop more than one class if necessary. “Students should also be mindful of the class drop limit,” Gore added. Texas mandates that students are only allowed to drop six classes during their entire college career. Students needing to drop classes may do so in the Registrar’s office on the Kilgore campus or at the office at KC-Longview. Students can acquire withdrawal forms from the KC counselling center. Contact Pam Gatton, counselling center director, at 903-983-8208 to discuss withdrawal from courses. See DROP on Page 3
THE FLARE
Wesley Malcolm, Longview sophomore,
Hearing impaired translator a vital member of Rangers football team VICTORIA WHITWELL Managing Editor
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world without sound is an unfamiliar one to most people. How would someone wake up without an alarm clock buzzing? What do inner thoughts sound like when “sound” has never been experienced? Would there be dancing if a melody could not be heard? A world without sound can seem almost unreal. For Wesley Malcolm, however, a world without sound is all too familiar. Peculiarly, for Malcolm, his muted world is also complemented by the world the majority of society knows – a world with a neverending resonance. Wesley Malcolm, Longview sophomore, was born completely deaf. At the age of five, Malcolm went into surgery to enable him to hear. The surgery that Malcolm underwent prepared him for an earpiece called a cochlear implant. “There are several brands of cochlear implants,” Malcolm said. “The one I am using is called ‘Advanced Bionic’. It’s purpose is to help people with deafness or hard of hearing to be able to hear better.” Malcolm said the way the cochlear implant works is that a mic is on the earpiece to absorb sound. Once the sound is absorbed, it is
transmitted into electrodes which tunes the ear drum. “My mom and grandparents talking to me was the first thing I heard. I could not talk at that time, but I was just so happy to hear their voices,” Malcolm said. “I could not contain my excitement in that moment. My family was so happy and was crying.” After the surgery, Malcolm said he had a lot of headaches due to the impact of sound waves hitting his ear drum, and it took him time to get used to hearing and having the earpiece. Fortunately, Malcolm can remove the earpiece as he pleases. Without it though, he cannot hear at all. “If I don’t want to hear something, I take the hearing aid off. Sometimes I prefer to be deaf. When I take the hearing aid off, the world becomes mute. It’s like television without the sound,” Malcolm said. “I have two worlds – a hearing world and a deaf world. I’m in the middle. I definitely prefer hearing over being deaf though. I love music, talking to people, and the sound of the rain.” Malcolm said he stopped learning how to sign for a while around the 8 years old so he could learn how to listen and talk. In middle school, Malcolm also stopped having an interpreter. He began playing sports such as football, basketball, and baseball. Malcolm continued to learn American Sign Language his freshman year of high school. He then graduated as a member of National Honor See TRANSLATOR on Page 3
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Duck Race set to help 5-year-old KATHRYN AGEE Executive Editor The KC Physical Therapy Club will be using rubber ducks to raise money for the son of two KC alumni on Saturday, April 11, on the east side of U.S. Hwy. 259. The race is set to help 5-year-old Lleyton Johnson who has a rare, severe undiagnosed seizure disorder and requires 24 hour care. Lleyton’s father, Jon-Eric, is a lieutenant for the Longview Fire Department, and his mother, Rachel, left her job as a physical therapist assistant to better care for Lleyton. The Johnsons set up a GoFundMe donation page called Love for Lleyton. Donations will help pay for the expenses needed to cover the $10,000 cost of a wheelchair conversion van. “It’s very difficult to travel right now,” Rachel said. While $4,000 has been See DUCKS on Page 3
‘Oh, the Humanity’ opening soon VICTORIA WHITWELL Managing Editor The KC Theatre Department is bringing a new flavor for their spring production. They will be performing “Oh, the Humanity and Other Good Intentions” by Will Eno. “It’s interesting because it’s not one complete play,” said Micah Goodding, director. “It’s five short plays about 10 to 15 minutes in length that are often performed next to each other” After performing “12 Angry Jurors” and “Rosencrantz and Guildenstern are Dead,” the theatre department has become quite familiar with “realistic drama” and “stylized absurdism”. Goodding made it intentional to not cast new members due to the “demanding maturity level.”
“‘Oh, the Humanity’ was a play that was written just in the last ten years or so. It is written in between realism and theatre of the absurd,” Goodding said. “So the students that were in those productions get the opportunity to apply the skills they’ve learned working on those two styles and sort of blend them together.” The rehearsal schedule is also a benefit for the cast and crew. Instead of all cast members having to stay from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. every night, they are able to rehearse on a rotating schedule from 5 to 8 p.m. between the five short plays. The schedule allows for more focus on each individual play and the actor’s roles as well. The show consists of two plays with the cast of one, two plays with the cast of two, and one play with the cast of three. “Everyone gets the attention they need to do their best with the material that they
have,” Goodding said. “They’re going to gain a lot of script analysis skills with this post-modern piece. Students will be able to encounter new material with confidence.” Goodding considers “Oh, the Humanity” as “some of the most interesting work [Eno] has done.” The plays reflect ideas of what it means to be human, giving actors material that really relates to them. The audience will hopefully connect with Eno’s material on a personal level as well. “The play doesn’t fit easily into categories. It’s funny and tragic, but it’s also truthful,” Goodding said in hopes of the audience to not only be entertained but “to be changed somehow” as well. “Perhaps why people go to the theatre in the first place is to know that they are not alone. We’re not the only person who’s thought these thoughts or felt these feelings, and that can be a powerfully
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Summer I, Summer II, and Fall 2015 Advisement/ Registration begins April 6. Seeking an adviser is recommended.
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reassuring thing.” “Oh the Humanity and Other Good Intentions: Five Short Plays” by Will Eno will begin at 7:30 p.m., Tuesday, April 14, and run through Saturday, April 18, with a matinee performance at 2:30 p.m. Sunday, April 19 in Van Cliburn Auditorium on the Kilgore College campus. General admission tickets are $10 for adults, $7 for students and $5 for KC students with a student ID. The box office will open one hour prior to each performance. Tickets are also available now at www. kilgore.tix.com For reservations, call (903) 983-8126 or e-mail the KC Theatre Box Office at boxoffice@kilgore.edu. Reserved tickets may be picked up at the Box Office beginning one hour before curtain on the day of the performance.
THE FLARE FRIDAY, MARCH 27, 2015
April 17 is the next issue date for The Flare. Stay tuned for the last two double-sections of the year, chock full of campus news.
for a full calendar activities, or go to
75
The theme of Rangerette Revels this year is “75” to celebrate the Rangerette’s 75th anniversary. Revels will open April 15.
for live updates
FACE IN THE CROWD
Voting available for Service Assembly JULIANNA KENDALL Staff Reporter Voting can begin for the awards that will be given out at the Service Recognition Assembly. The assembly will be held at 1:30 to 2:45 p.m., Tuesday, April 14, at the Devall Student Center Ballroom and will be open for all students and faculty to attend. This event will recognize community service and service learning within the college community. Awards handed out will include: Outstanding Student in Service, Outstanding Faculty in Service, Outstanding Service Learning Student, Outstanding Service Learning Instructor and Outstanding KC Organization. To vote, a survey can be found on the KC website or in a link via students’ emails. “This is a time we take every year to recognize students and faculty and all their service within our community,” said Patty Bell, career services and service learning director. “KC is dedicated to preparing students for success and by offering service opportunities, we believe that results in a more rounded individual.” KC has been involved in a wide variety of service projects throughout the year. One was the Ranger Ambassadors “Cardboard Box City” in efforts to raise awareness of the homeless and money for their immediate needs. Another example was the dance and music department presenting their pre-concert for the community. Other organizations that participated in service projects include: the chemistry department with their “The Sweet Side of Chemistry” presentation, the agriculture department allowing high school students to be a part of agriculture-related events, and the many students who volunteer at places such as the Boys and Girls Club. “There are many free cultural events throughout the year for the community,” Bell said. “KC wants serving others to become a part of who our students are and not just what they are required to do.”
Ambassadors will host Open Mic Night Kaelie Wike / THE FLARE
Caleb Warren What are you majoring in? Business Administration. Why did you decide to come to KC? I decided to come to Kilgore College because it was close to home and it was financially reasonable. I didn’t want to shoot straight into a four-year university straight out of high school. Too much pressure. Are you involved with any on-campus organizations? I am part of the Kilgore College Ambassadors and the KC Chorale. What is your favorite kind of music? I mainly listen to rock, hard core, metal, soul, R&B and lounge music. What are your top three favorite bands? I usually don’t have a favorite band, but if I picked three it would have to be Underoath, Deftones and Lemongrass. Mary J Blige, Kem, and Charlie Wilson are some good R&B acts.
Hometown: Gladewater Sophomore Who is your biggest inspiration? My biggest inspiration would have to be my mom, honestly. She has been through some hard times, but she always managed to get back up on her own. She’s a pretty strong woman and musically talented, so I always looked up to her since I was a little vermin. If you could be any fictional creature, what would you be? If I could be any fictional creature, I would be a phoenix. Those things are brutal and always come back. There’s also a positive message behind them, but that would be cliché if I started talking about it. What do you plan to do after KC? I plan to go to SFA and major in psychology. Something about the human mind interests me, and Stephen F. Austin is close. I also plan to keep music while I’m away. I live by the saying, “no music, no life”
ELIJAH BANKS Staff Writer The Ranger Ambassadors will be hosting an Open Mic Night for KC students and staff. The event will be from 6:30 to 8 p.m. on Tuesday, March. 31, in the Devall Student Center Ballroom. Drinks, snacks and door prizes available. Anyone participating must pay $2 and sign up by Monday, March 30, in the visitor center. The admission will go toward future student activities the Ambassadors will be hosting. “Open Mic Night is to get Kilgore students to interact with each and have a good time,” said Pedro Robles, West Columbia freshman. Robles also said they recommend faculty and staff to attend so they will have an opportunity to communicate and get to know the students better. There isn’t any limit to what can be performed. Talents such as singing, playing a musical instrument, performing a comedy routine and reading poetry are some talents that can be showcased. For more information, contact a Ranger Ambassador.
NEWS
THE FLARE FRIDAY, MARCH 27, 2015
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Choose the right path for your math Reformatted curriculum equals more compatible math courses FROM STAFF REPORTS Students who are in a major that does not require College Algebra will find their choices have exponentially increased in Fall 2015.
When early advising opens on April 6, Mariann Baker, mathematics department chair, hopes more students will be able to take the pathways Statistics (Math 1342) or Math Topics (Math 1333) for their college level math requirements. The reformatted curriculum is designed to assist students with a C or better in Math 0306 or 0307, or who have TSI test scores that would place them in Intermediate Algebra. These students can go straight into math classes more in-line with their degree plans, such as
the social sciences and many of the technical/ vocational routes. Upon completion of one of these pathway courses (Math 1342, 1333), the student will be deemed, “college-ready for non-algebraic intensive mathematics,” Baker said. Modeled after the Dana Center at the University of Texas at Austin, the labs will carry over from the class, with students attending a two-hour block twice a week. However, Baker also stressed that students currently enrolled in Intermediate Algebra
(Math 0308 and 0309) not drop in the current semester because of this change, since the class will still enable them to take any entrylevel math class at and school in Texas. “This really gives our students more options in choosing a math class that will benefit them the most in the future,” Baker said. She also encouraged students to check the degree plan of the university they plan to transfer to for more specific courses. For more information about these classes, contact Baker at 903-983-8645.
TRANSLATOR: Helps football player FROM PAGE 1
CORROSION TECHNOLOGY DONATION Cedric Acy, San Antonio freshman, performs a test at the Corrosion Technology lab. KC’s Corrosion Technology program received equipment worth about $5,000 from The Swain Meter Company on March 23. The company donated a Swain Meter which is a portable, custom built DC clampon ammeter that precisely measures the magnitude and direction of DC conductor. Kaelie Wike / THE FLARE
ACADEMY: Star of Texas recipient From Page 1 the community.” This was the first time Yeakley has spoken publicly to a group since the accident, and called the evening’s ceremony, “a real honor.” With more than 80 people in the Bert E. Woodruff Adult Education Center Auditorium, Yeakley spoke about his incident and emphasized the way the Bible scripture found in Philippians 4:13 has helped him persevere. Yeakley said he remembered waking up with the ceiling on top of him and
thought “that more than likely, I was going to die. At that point I did the only thing I knew to do – pray.” The graduates were especially moved by Yeakley’s testimony. “It’s an honor, he is an inspiration to see what he has overcome,” said program graduate Brian Pittman of Longview. “Even when you’re doing everything right, things can still go wrong. But the way he has bounced back and continues to fight and keep on keeping on is pretty awesome.” While Yeakley was working through physical therapy
over the past 10 months, he set a goal to someday be able to run again. He said when his trainer told him it was going to take a lot of work, he responded, “Then let’s get started.” Yeakley does not view what happened as a punishment. He credits both his strong religious background, as well as his wife, for helping him through this time. “I look at life totally different,” Yeakley said. “Now life is a lot more precious. It can all change in a minute. You’re here and you never expect anything like this to happen to you.”
DUCK: Proceeds go to fundraising goal From Page 1 donated in the past five months through the fund, The Physical Therapy Club plans to use all proceeds from the race to help the Johnsons reach their goal. “Carla Gleaton, who was my instructor at KC when I was in the physical therapy program, found out about the GoFundMe site and contacted me through Facebook,” Rachel said. “We are extremely grateful
she contacted us. No one else had, and we were trying to do things on our own. It means a great deal to us that they were willing to put in all this time and effort.” Plastic ducks are $5 each and the person whose duck reaches the finish line first will receive a $200 Visa gift card courtesy of Patterson Nissan in Longview. Second place is a pair of gold loop earrings donated by Jim Bartlett Fine Jewelry.
DROP: Not withdrawing could result in failing grade From Page 1 The Registrar’s office is located upstairs in the Devall Student Center. The main office for the Longview campus is located in the Hendrix Building After the last day to drop classes with a W, students will receive the grade they
earned while in class. If they fail to officially withdraw, they will receive an F in the course. If a course is needed for their degree plan, students may come back and take the dropped class in a later semester. Zero class hours will be gained through dropped courses.
Third place receive a gift certificate for a 60-minute massage with Laurie Lake, RMT of Longview. For more info or to purchase tickets, contact Carla Gleaton at 903-983-8148 or cgleaton@kilgore.edu. To donate to Love for Lleyton, visit www.gofundme.com.
Society and as an Accelerated Program student from Longview High School. “People picked on me for not being able to hear when I was younger, so my motivation is to prove the people who doubt my abilities wrong,” Malcolm said. “The only difference between me and someone ‘normal’ is our levels of hearing.” Now Malcolm is able to show what he’s really capable of. Faculty members at KC were aware Malcolm was hard of hearing when he came his freshman year, so when deaf football player Demontrai Lewis decided to play for KC, the coaching staff offered Malcolm a job as an interpreter for Lewis and the football team. Malcolm said this opportunity was something he had never expected. “I just thought I was going to be a regular student. It’s been a fun year being an interpreter for the football team,” Malcolm said. “I’ve gotten to know the team and they’re like family. We have each other’s backs.” Malcolm said the coaches have accepted him as part of the football time and he couldn’t be more thankful. The coaches are thankful for Malcolm as well. Keith Browning, defensive line/ recruiting coordinator, said that Malcolm contributes to the football team by more than just being an interpreter. Browning credits Malcolm’s “positive attitude and work ethic” for the encouragement of the team. Malcolm also makes sure that Lewis gets every detail of what the coaches are saying, according to Browning. “It’s a really good
working relationship with [Malcolm] and our staff. Wes is a selfless person and really wants to help others,” Browning said. “I really have enjoyed working with him and getting to know him as well. Wes has been great for both Demontrai and myself.” The Disability Services Center at KC has helped and is continuing to help Malcolm prepare as an interpreter with Kory Kimble, disability services assistant and deaf and hard of hearing services interpreter/coordinator, mentoring Malcolm along the way. Kimble, who has been interpreting for 18 years, said that Malcolm has “a bright future.” “Wesley has a lot of insight into the hearing impaired and deaf community that a lot of interpreters wouldn’t have been exposed to,” Kimble said. “The fact that Wesley had to depend on his sign language skills with other deaf and hard of hearing individuals has made him proficient with sign language.” Malcolm said he interprets for Lewis almost everyday, translating what the coaches want to tell Lewis concerning plays and drills. He said he also helps Lewis outside of football when needed. “Wesley works with me at practices, meetings, and games. Without him, I wouldn’t understand what the coaches would be saying. We’re close friends. I met him last summer, and we became close in the fall,” said Lewis. “He is a good signer and always tries to find a way to help me. Wesley is a good man.” Malcolm admitted that being deaf does discourage him sometimes, and he used to question his purpose in life. He said there have been times where he feels like he doesn’t belong, but his mother and grandparents have always been there to remind him that he has a purpose on his life and there’s a reason he’s deaf.
“Interpreting for Demontrai contributes to my purpose. It’s helped me see that I have a reason to be here,” Malcolm said. Malcolm is a part of a deaf community where he has friends from Corpus Christi, Dallas, Houston, San Antonio and Tyler who support each other when they feel disheartened. He is also thankful for the friends he has who aren’t deaf and are able to look past his disability to see him as a person. “I used to be a loner, but it isn’t like that anymore,” Malcolm said. “I’m so thankful for everything the Disability Service Center has done for me.” Majoring in general studies at the moment, Malcolm still isn’t quite sure what he plans to do career-wise. “Waiting to see what the future holds,” Malcolm is considering taking classes to be certified as an interpreter, but is open to other options. “[Being an interpreter] has been a awesome experience, and it’s really changed my life, and I hope I will still be able to be an interpreter in the future,” Malcolm said. Though he has a long way to go, Malcolm has come a long way. Most people will never know a world without sound. Many people will never know a world with sound. It takes someone like Malcolm to bridge the gap.
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THE FLARE FRIDAY, MARCH 27, 2015
NEWS
Sumeyee Samento / THE FLARE
Legalization of marijuana has become an important issue in Texas legislation, with various bills proposed concerning its legalization and regulation.
Texas turning a new leaf? KATHRYN AGEE Executive Editor
B
ill Hicks, Texas native and philosophical comedian, once said, “Why is marijuana against the law? It grows naturally upon our planet. Doesn’t the idea of making nature against the law seem to you a bit paranoid? How do you make nature against the law? It grows everywhere, serves a thousand different functions, all of them positive. To make marijuana against the law is like saying God made a mistake.” The recent words of Rep. David Simpson of Longview echo this sentiment. His website says, “We are missing out on both the medicinal and economic value of a plant God has given us that, coincidentally, can also be abused. Anything can be used for evil, but that does not make it evil. Cannabis can be used for much good.” On March 2, Simpson filed House Bill 2165, which would repeal all marijuana offenses in Texas statutes. He “does not advocate the irresponsible use of marijuana or any substance,” but believes “those are choices that should be made by individuals, not the state.” He said that 23 states so far have legalized the plant for medical use. “Marijuana, used irresponsibly, can have some bad side effects,” he said. “But many pharmaceuticals, used as intended, have even worse side effects. Compare the side effects of prescription painkillers, antidepressants, or chemotherapy drugs to the side effects of marijuana. Should people be allowed to make a choice between the two? Also, compare the side effects of marijuana to countless substances and activities, which may not be
the best choice for the individual, but which we tolerate and do not prohibit.” This bill would decriminalize marijuana, but would not create a plan for regulating its use. On March 17, Rep. Marisa Marquez of El Paso introduced House Bill 3875. The bill would create a program through which individuals with qualifying medical conditions would receive licenses to let them to possess limited amounts of medical marijuana, with a doctor’s recommendation. According to a University of Texas / Texas Tribune poll released in February 2014, 77 percent of Texans think seriously ill people should have the right to use marijuana for medical purposes. When introducing the bill, Marquez said, ”The law currently does not reflect marijuana’s legitimate medical use and denies access to patients. By continuing to deny access to patients, we limit the rights of families to seek the best possible treatment for conditions that do not respond to other drugs or therapies. We should create paths, and not obstacles, in allowing doctors to recommend medicine that has been shown to work.” Some people believe legalization is a civil liberties issue. NORML, or the National Organization for the Reform of Marijuana laws, has a chapter of such people in Northeast Texas. They believe in NORML’s mission to be “dedicated to ending the war against marijuana in the state of Texas and fighting for the right of citizens to have safe and legal access to cannabis.” NETXNORML began as the East Texas Cannabis Coalition in March 2014 as a Facebook group. Casey West Brehm, NETX’s Deputy Director, said it was “intended from the very beginning to become a NORML
History of hemp
other events to educate people there.
Before its prohibition, cannabis was one of the most valuable crops worldwide. Here are some according to Ranker.com. Ancient China use medical marijuana. They drank marijuana tea to combat gout, malaria, and constipation. Egyptian Pharohs used marijuana for the treatment of hemorrhoids and sore eyes. Hua Tuo was a Chinese scholar and doctor. combining cannabis powder and wine in 200 A.D. Christopher Columbus carried seeds of Cannabis Sativa on his ships in 1492, making him responsible for introducing marijuana to America. The seeds would be used to grow hemp, which can be used to make food, resin, pulp, wax, rope, oil, cloth, paper, and fuel. Queen Elizabeth I ruled in 1593 that cannabis was such a varied and useful crop that landowners with over 60 acres must grow it along with their George Washington grew hemp as his primary crop in 1797. He also wrote in his diary about the medicinal properties of increasing THC in his crop. Queen Victoria was prescribed cannabis drinks in 1823 by her private physician, Sir Russell Reynolds, to relieve her menstrual cramps. Reynolds called it “one of the most valuable medicines we possess.” William O’Shaugnessey was an Irish doctor who used cannabis to treat muscle spasms, vomiting, and diarrhea. In the 1840s, due to his work, in America people could obtain marijuana almost anywhere.
chapter. Members were pouring in within the first month. Having NORML affiliation has picked up the pace. Very shortly after becoming a chapter, we got some positive media exposure, which got a lot of people interested.” Their Facebook page now has over 4,000 likes. NETXNORML has meetings once a month, along with meet-ups and events. At the meetings, they discuss the different things they can do to promote awareness of marijuana legalization. “Members have taken part in legislative action training and written, called and visited with our representatives,” said Brehm. “We have had opinion pieces, letters to the editor, and editorials published in local papers. More than anything, we are taking every opportunity to educate the public on this issue.” Brehm wants legalization of marijuana because she cares “about human rights. We cannot tolerate people not being able to safely and legally get the medication they need. We can’t tolerate children being taken from their parents or nonviolent people being imprisoned all over a plant which has the potential to help countless people and enrich our community.” Former KC student Mandy Adamson said “Legalizing marijuana could do much to help the economy by creating jobs and helping people by reducing pain in those who are chronic sufferers. The idea that legalizing it would do harm and cause chaos is absurd. Those who aren’t interested won’t use it, and those who are interested in it will have just as much trouble obtaining it as they would cigarettes and alcohol if they are underage.” She is an advocate of marijuana law reform because “My sister, who moved to
Sumeyee Samento / THE FLARE
Nicki Rucker Williams Williams, KC freshman and fine arts student, is treasurer of the Northeast Texas chapter of NORML, the National Organization for the Reform of Marijuana Laws. How long have you been a member of NETX NORML? I helped found it in June 2014. What different activities have been held? We have hosted meetings and social events, and have had vendor tables at
What do you most enjoy about being treasurer? The people I get to talk to. What is NETX NORML’s biggest benefit to the community? Educating people on the benefits of cannabis, uniting supporters and letting them know how they can contribute. What is the biggest stereotype you have seen others have about marijuana or its legalization? People seem to think that legalization will mean easier access for minors. The reality is that legalization will require an ID to purchase it. Drug dealers don’t check IDs. What benefits would legalization bring to East Texas? Economic benefits. It would create jobs. Tax money can go towards education, and less money would be spent on non-violent offenders in jail. Should marijuana be legalized for medical use, recreational use, or both? Both. There many patients who can benefit from medical marijuana and have an improved quality of life. It is also a civil liberties issue. Adults should be able to choose if they want to use a mind altering substance, especially one as harmless as cannabis. The number of nonviolent offenders sitting in jail right now because of marijuana prohibition is unbelievable. People today seem more open-minded when it comes to the idea of legalizing than in the past. Why? It’s been a taboo subject for a long time. Now that it is finally becoming a topic of discussion, people are being more vocal of their support. People who were unsure are learning that it actually is harmless and
California back in 2011, has a rare cancer disorder called HLRCC. She gets these horrible tumors that burn regardless of it being cold or warm out. I kind of have a stake in the whole idea of marijuana being legalized for that reason alone.” Mance Fine, former Longview resident, believes marijuana “should be legal, both for recreational and medicinal use, but regulated and taxed, like alcohol.” Fine said the problem with Simpson’s bill is that “it makes it legal for a 5-year-old to possess it. That’s why it’s a hair unrealistic, unless the legislature would pass it on the basis that they would pass regulatory legislation upon approval of Simpson’s bill. His heart is in the right place, but the medicinal marijuana bill proposed by Marquez probably has a better chance of passing.” Other states passing reform is why he believes marijuana legalization “is inevitable eventually in Texas. Once the trends of revenue and less crime follow in states that have legalized it, such as in Colorado and Washington, Texas will have no choice but to follow suit, especially because of how much it would cut down Cartel power and border crime.” “I don’t know if it will take one, five, or 20 years, but marijuana use will eventually be legal in Texas,” Fine said. “It’s just a matter of time.” According to the Pew Research Center, 65 percent of millenials favor legalization of marijuana. Brehm said college students need to know that legalization “is attainable. It is realistic. It will happen in Texas, but we need help to get it done. Change is always possible, but it won’t be handed to us; we have to fight for it.”
are able to make educated decisions. What do you think of David Simpson’s proposed marijuana bill? Is it a step forward? I think it is great, and definitely a step forward. What do you think of Simpson rationalizing legalization of marijuana because it was created by God? Will he convince believers that it should be legal by saying this? Will this make different people unite under a common cause? I do think that his rationale will reach a different group of people who may not otherwise supported a bill like this. Anything that helps get our cause support is a good thing. What should KC students to know about marijuana legalization? If you support the cause, find NETX NORML on Facebook or email us at info@ netxnorml.org. We can help you contact your representative and let them know how you feel. It’s very important to let them know where you stand.
Sumeyee Samento / THE FLARE
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Bathroom
Bill would criminalize certain transgender bathroom use VICTORIA WHITWELL Managing Editor
U
issues
nisex and genderneutral restrooms may be established as a part of every public restroom facility. House Bill 1748 wants to, “make it a criminal offense for a transgender person to use a bathroom according to their gender identity,” according to the Huffington Post. Gender identity is how a person identifies oneself regardless of his or her biological sex. The way society recognizes one’s gender is by that individual’s gender expression. Gender expression is the outward recognition of gender identity. The bill states that “the gender of an individual is the gender established at the individual’s birth or the gender established by the individual’s chromosomes. A male is an individual with at least one X chromosome and at least one Y chromosome, and a female is an individual with at least one X chromosome and no Y chromosomes. If an individual’s gender established at the individual’s birth is not the same as the individual’s gender established by the individual’s chromosomes, the individual ’s gender established by the individual’s chromosomes controls under this [bill].” In essence, the bill would require individuals to choose the restroom of the sex they were born with, rather than what gender they identify with. Because of such requirements, gender non-conforming people would most likely have to face unnecessary attention or harassment when using the restroom they are told to use. However, if they go against the bill, building owners could be accused of committing a felony for allowing people over the age of 7 to use the restroom that does not match their sex, and the nonconforming individuals could be accused of committing a misdemeanor if over the age of 13, according to the Huffington Post. The exceptions to the bill for people who go to bathrooms that do not match their sex are: “for a custodial purpose, to give medical assistance, or to accompany a child younger than eight years of age.” State Rep. Debbie Riddle filed House Bill 1748 in February 2015, and it has been receiving backlash from the transgender
TO BE CONSIDERED Here are a few of the bills currently being considered in the 83rd Legislative Session, according to The Texas Tribune. HB 3735, Rep. Byron Cook, R. Corsicana – seeks to establish a partnership with the federal government to establish a guestworker program to bring skilled and unskilled labor to Texas. HB 3302, Rep. Eddie Rodriguez, D. Austin – would recognize undocumented Texans as “citizens” of the state. Would allow them to apply for driver’s licenses, occupational licenses, and state IDs if they meet certain residency criteria and can verify their identity. HB 3765, Rep. Jodie Laubenberg, R. Parker – would increase state’s informed consent laws for minors. Law already requires patients seeking an abortion to go through the informed consent process, but the bill would require notarized consent from a minor and their parent before the abortion is performed. HB 3916, Rep. Jonathan Strickland, R. Bedford – would make it illegal for any public entities who provide water or electric services to provide water or electric utility information to NSA collection centers in the state. HB 3839, Joe Deshotel, D. Port Arthur – asks voters to approve the creation of as many as 9 casinos. HB 3845, Rep. Garnet Coleman, D. Houston – requests a block grant from the federal government to reform the program and expand health care coverage for lowincome Texans.
community since. The bill has a possibility of being difficult to enforce because a person would have to show proof of their sex if the conflict went that far. A petition at the University of Texas at Tyler by the Gender Sex and Sexuality Alliance was made to request that the school provides gender neutral restrooms, according to KLTV. Family restrooms have also been a successful solution for the transgender community. Many businesses and public facilities do provide family restrooms as their purpose also accommodates parents. If passed, the bill would go into effect September 2015.
Lacy Storar / THE FLARE
Lorena Lozano, along with her sons Jaden and Braylen Lopez go into the family unisex restroom at the Longview Mall. House Bill 1748 could make a unisex restroom mandatory.
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It’s an adventure! Earn money
Gain leadership opportunities Meet new people Develop communication skills Create school spirit
Become an Orientation Leader! Pick up an application in Room 120 in the Student Support Building or in The Zone Tutoring Lab. Deadline is Friday, April 10. For more information: Kasey Nisbett (903) 988-7491 knisbett@kilgore.edu
Gail Jackson (903) 988-7537 gjackson@kilgore.edu
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THE FLARE FRIDAY, MARCH 27, 2015
SPORTS
Mayweather-Pacquiao NCAA TOURNAMENT fight could save boxing F or more than five years a fight between Floyd Mayweather Jr. and Manny Pacquiao has been the talk of boxing. On May 2, the two will finally step into the ring and battle for the Welterweight World Title at MGM Grand in Las Vegas. The fight should break the revenue record for combat sports, and is expected to surpass $400 million. With the mixed martial arts scene becoming more popular each year, boxing seems to be losing its DAVID MCCARTY morale. Super fights such Advertising as Muhammad Ali vs. Joe Manager Frazier in the Thrilla in Manila have become almost obsolete in the world of boxing. The George Foremans and Mike Tysons of the sport are what made boxing so popular and exciting to watch. Now, Mayweather and Pacquiao have the chance to save the sport and bring back the strong aura it once held. One of the greats, Sugar Ray Leonard, said: ”I always expect the unexpected. Boxing is not a easy sport.” Mayweather has never lost a fight in his professional career, currently undefeated with 47 wins. In 2009, he beat Manuel Marquez, who would end up knocking out Pacquiao two years later. He has been the best pound-for-pound fighter in the sport for many years. His speed mixed with his elusive defense ability makes him one of the greatest boxers to wear the gloves. Mayweather has a certain drive and work ethic that sets him apart from his opponents. He is a defensive guru and frustrates his opponent with excellent footwork and precise movements. Quick to weave a hook and land a couple of shots, hitting Mayweather is the hardest part about fighting him. Many have tried to attack him with a dirty and aggressive style, but he always emerges victorious. Pacquiao does have 57 wins, however, he has five losses and two draws lingering on his record. Three of his losses came from knockouts, the most recent one being from Juan Manuel Marquez. Knockouts are a
huge part of the sport, but it does come with a price. Some boxers are never the same after a few knockouts in their loss column. This doesn’t seem to have any affect on Pacquiao yet, but we will not know until he enters the ring. The boxer does have a good chin and is known to shake off huge hits. He still fights with a chip on his shoulder, bringing an aggressive attitude that puts pressure on his opponents. People have been waiting to see a fight of this caliber for many years. Pacquiao is an amazing fighter, however, I refuse to believe that he can beat one of the greatest champions to ever wear the belt. He is obviously more powerful than Mayweather, but you cannot hit what you cannot touch. Mayweather will be a nightmare for Pacquiao because he is very technical and has mastered the defensive side of the sport. Boxing is one of the greatest sports, not only in America, but also across the world. This global art has been lacking in excitement for a couple of years but this fight is sure to be one of the greatest in the history of the sport. For the first time in ages, this pay-per-view fight is sure to finally live up to the hype. After all the media attention the fight has received, the fight is officially underway. Just a little more than one month away, the fight of the century will finally take place. Pacquiao will give Mayweather the hardest fight of his career, but I believe he will not take the belt away from the Champion. Like Mayweather always says, “all work is easy work.” Some people cannot wait to see the cocky, flamboyant and undefeated Mayweather finally lose his title. Others want to see him maintain the belt and achieve perfection in the great sport of boxing. Whatever the outcome of the fight happens to be, millions of people will be tuned in on Saturday May 2 waiting for Michael Buffer to say, “Let’s get ready to rumble!” because this battle is sure to live up to all the hype. And the bell goes ding.
Former KC Ranger standout guard Stefan Moody and his Ole Miss Rebels were downed 7657 in the Round of 64 in the NCAA Tournament by the Xavier Musketeers. The Ole Miss Rebels were outplayed at every angle in this game, and fought hard but was unable to pull off the upset over Xavier. Moody, who previously led his team on a comeback win against Brigham Young University, was contained by the Xavier defense. Moody managed to score 14 points, but he got 5-18 from the field for the game. He shot a career low 2-9 from the three-point
Make your picks for the Elite Eight and Final Four MIDWEST REGION 1 Kentucky Wildcats
5 West Virginia
3 Notre Dame
7 Wichita St.
WEST REGION 1 Wisconsin
4 North Carolina
6 Xavier
2 Arizona
EAST REGION 8 N.C. State
4 Louisville
3 Oklahoma
7 Michigan St.
David McCarty is a sophomore Journalism major from Longview
Former Ranger guard goes down in NCAA tournament DEVIN BROOKS Sports Editor
SWEET 16
line during this game. Xavier double-teamed Moody and made it difficult for him to shoot the ball let alone breathe. Xavier also shut down senior guard Jarvis Summers who helps Moody in the frontcourt. Summers scored no points during this game shooting 0-8 from the field and 0-4 from long distance. Ole Miss was outmuscled and out-dueled in the paint thanks to Xavier center Matt Stainbrook. Stainbrook had 20 points, ripped down nine boards, and dished out five assists for the game putting his all-around skills on display for everybody to see. Xavier’s guards also played a significantly better game than the Ole Miss guards.
Dee Davis scored 17 points shooting 5-10 from the field while other guard Remy Abell shot 3-5 from the field scoring eight points. Despite Ole Miss being eliminated in the first round they have had a great season, and Moody is a big reason of their success. He averaged roughly 17 points per game while dishing out 5.4 assists per game and ripping down 3.4 rebounds. His speed, athleticism, and shooting ability made him a threat to every opponent that went up against him. Moody’s hasn’t made a decision on if he will forgo his senior season at Ole Miss and declare for the NBA Draft, but whatever decision he makes he will be fully committed to it.
SOUTH REGION 1 Duke
11 UCLA
Elite Eight Dates: March 28-29 Final Four Dates: April 4th
5 Utah
2 Gonzaga
National Championship Game: April 6
OPINION
THE FLARE FRIDAY, MARCH 27, 2015
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Open carry Newly approved gun law triggers safety debate
Law promotes safety DAVID MCCARTY Advertising Manager
W
ith open carry now approved in Texas, the House and its “campus carry” would allow students, faculty and staff over the age of 21 to have guns at public colleges and universities. Handguns on college campuses may seem a risky to some, however this could be a huge benefit if done properly. The campus carry bill is likely to pass, and only those with a concealed-handgun license (CHL) would be allowed to do so. Since over 800,000 Texans have a CHL the question is, how will this benefit the campus? Some people may be concerned that we will turn into the Wild West, with gunfights like the OK Corral. This is far from the truth and seems asinine. We all remember the Virginia Tech Massacre in 2007 where a student murdered 32 people and wounded 17 others. It has been eight years since the shooting, but that is 32 families that had their lives ruined. After shots were fired a male student rushed to the aid of the victim and was shot himself. What if he had a gun in his dresser he was able to take with him? He could have ended this
and saved 31 lives that day, but no. Out of the 49 victims that day I promise you that someone could have helped stop this madness. Research has shown that there have been over 70 school shootings since Dec. 2012. That is a ridiculously high number its hard to comprehend. If a teacher would have had a gun, or if a college student exercised his right to bear arms, lives could have been saved. Guns do NOT kill people, because people kill people. The bill is a great advance for the state of Texas, and people are only looking at the possibility of negative actions. It’s simple, good people act good bad people act bad. There will always be a bad apple off of every tree, but the important thing is that we take care of the good apples. There are so many bad people in this world who do carry guns, and use them in an aggressive manor. This bill will not change that. What this bill will change is the amount of innocent lives taken each year. Not everyone in Texas is a triggerhappy gangster. Personally being in situations where the first thing that came across my mind was, “I really wish I had a gun right now.” This wasn’t because of myself wanting to commit murder, this was because my life felt like it could be in jeopardy The world is forever changing whether we want it to or not. The laws need to change in favor of the people as well. When Texans stand strong in a safe and smart aspect, the people will make it a better place. The bill does not give any and everyone a gun and say, “have at it.” It just gives the people their right that is stated in the second amendment. This would be great for schools, parents and faculty. Texas is making the right decision with this bill. The positive change that will arise from the bill will completely out weigh any negative actions. Like the old saying goes, better to have gun and not need it than to ... well you know...
THE FLARE
YOUR VIEW
Consider ramifications LOGAN HOLLOWAY Staff Writer
T
exans have never been shy about showing their devotion to the things they love. We’re a people full of pride and loyalty, a people who believe that true patriotism is a privilege and real barbeque is a birthright. Talking bad about Texas in front of a native usually isn’t the healthiest option. You tell us we have an annoying accent and we’ll probably pee ourselves with glee. Have you ever tried telling a Texan that size doesn’t matter? . If you can go longer than fifteen minutes driving down a Texas highway without seeing some variation of a “God, guns, and freedom” bumper sticker, then either you’re blind or maybe those aren’t quite as popular as I’m remembering. Either way, those are three of the many things that we’ll go to war over to prove how much we value them. Now, as usual, one of those three items has been in the news of late, and it has sparked quite a bit of controversy. For the first time in almost 150 years, Texas is on the verge of possibly legalizing the open carry of firearms in public. If this proposed bill were to be passed, it would simply allow those with the proper handgun paperwork, i.e. permits, concealed licenses and the like, to carry their sidearms in plain sight. An accompanying bill, the “campus carry” one, would also allow those people with CHL’s to carry their handguns onto public university grounds. Of course, as is usually the case with topics such as this, there are pros and cons and people on both sides clamoring for their respective desires on the issue. This isn’t so much a pro or anti-gun conversation that is happening, but more of a debate about how much freedom those with guns should be allowed. The laws remainig in place should keep the status-quo in place. Everyone seems to be smart enough to realize that the right to carry a gun doesn’t mean it’s ok to turn a Walgreens parking lot into the O.K. Corral if an argument breaks out, and tailgating in Austin probably shouldn’t turn into the sands of Iwo Jima when the Red Raiders show up. No, the main point of contention should and does seem to be on what the passing of this bill will mean for our culture. How is a parent supposed to feel when they’re walking down the street with their toddlers and pass someone with a Glock strapped
What is your stance on allowing Open Carry of weapons on campus?
“That they should not be allowed.”
“I don’t think it should be allowed, because you never
Brian Scogg Nacogdoches Freshman
be carrying the
The Flare SPORTS EDITOR
MANAGING EDITOR Victoria Whitwell
ASSISTANT SPORTS EDITOR Richard Nguyen
COPY EDITOR Dustin Taylor OPINION EDITOR
VOL. 78, NO.18
Tan Oliver
LETTERS
Thursday, March 27, 2015
Copyright 2015, The Flare. All rights reserved.
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an individual carrying it for protection due to an assault long as their mental stability is proper.”
THE FLARE
EXECUTIVE EDITOR Kathryn Agee
life at school (legally) in an instant.”
legal authority with training
Cynthia Smith
Alexis Luis Kilgore Freshman
“No, because I do not want anyone to have the
“It really depends on the capability of the person
intentions are going to be.”
FEATURES EDITOR
to their side? It doesn’t matter who you are, if you walk into a convenience store sporting and full on hand cannon, tensions are probably going to rise. There are countless other examples like these that should make us at least stop and consider the ramifications of guns being carried out in the open. There are also plenty of examples of when being able to see the gun will likely result in a much more preferable outcome than when it is revealed in surprise. There probably isn’t a perfect conclusion to these debates that will make everyone feel equally at peace, just as there isn’t a perfect solution to how guns are handled and regulated in general. What must be remembered in either case is that guns are a very real aspect of our lives, especially in the region to which we reside, and the right to own and carry them is a privilege that should never be taken for granted. Holding a gun in your hand is holding power, and I think I can say for everyone that, if Uncle Ben has taught us anything, it’s you should never go out at night after making serious statements to your nephew, and that with power comes, well, you know.
Zapata
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
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.
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THE FLARE FRIDAY, March 27, 2015
F E AT U R E
Caching in Catching ‘treasures’ around the world NICK SHELLEY • Staff Writer
G
eocaching is a sport where users enter coordinates into their global positioning devices to find “treasure” boxes, in cities as large as Dallas, or even Kilgore. Geocaching is a global sport. Caches are located all over the world, such as in Beijing, China, or Abuja, Nigeria. Geocaches range in size from micro to large caches. Micro caches are usually in the form of pill bottles. Large cache are ammo boxes. Geocachers are encouraged to leave small trinkets in the larger caches, while smaller caches only require a signature. All finds are logged on www. geocaching.com under a specific username that geocachers pick for themselves. Geocachers use abbreviations when logging their finds, such as TFTC, which means “Thanks for the Cache.” Another common abbreviation used by geocachers is SL, which means “Signed Log.” Caches can be hidden anywhere, from under large rocks to inside fake thermometers. More unusual caches can be disguised as rocks or wasp nests. Other geocaches can be magnetized to fences. Often, geocaches are hidden in public places such as parks or in historical locations like landmarks. Several genres of geocaches exist. One is the traditional cache, where geocachers go to the coordinates given them on www. geocaching.com to find a micro, normal, or large cache. Another, more in-depth genre is the multi-cache. Geocachers follow the coordinates to one location, find a tag with more coordinates, then follow the coordinates on the tag to another location. This cycle repeats itself until the coordinates lead to the cache. Another unusual genre of geocaches is the mystery cache, where geocachers must solve a puzzle to get the coordinates for the cache. A genre of geocache that can be found on the KC campus is the Earth Cache. Geocachers follow coordinates to a specific location, then answer questions given by the hider on the page of the geocache. Earth caches lead cachers to locations such as museums or exhibits. Another type of cache that is fairly common to the East Texas area is the Event Cache. An event cache is an event that geocachers put specific coordinates to find the location. The event can range from a flash mob to a
Emily Gibbs / THE FLARE
Trackables can range in size from pill bottles to ammo cases. They are usually hidden to make the treasure hunt more challenging.
A CLOSER LOOK To learn more about geocaching, go to geocaching.com. Users can also download the app on iTunes. The app is by developed geocaching. The app includes access to every type of geocache, the ability to search for and log trackables, and the ability to navigate with a map. On the geocaching site, hints can also be viewed for the hunt, such as “hidden in a tree” or “magnetized to a bridge.” Recent logs from others who have found the cache can also be viewed on the website.
Emily Gibbs / THE FLARE
Nick Shelley locates a geocaching tag during a recent Kilgore hunt. To locate more trackables in your area, visit www.geocaching.com. nice dinner, all done with other geocachers. The event is at a specific date and time. The Event Cache is permanently deleted once it is over. Several geocaches can be found in parks
around Kilgore, such as Synergy Park or Meadowbrook Park. People just need to go to the geocaching website and get the coordinates to find them. Trackable items can also be found in
geocaches, which are items attached to a dog tag with a code on them. Geocachers are supposed to take trackables from one geocache and drop them off in another. They are logged online when geocachers pick them up and drop them off. Trackable items can come from all across the world, and geocachers may view their journey on their page on the geocaching website.
Cosmetologists shape students’ look MAX CERVANTES Staff Writer
T
he KC-Longview Cosmetology department offers a plethora of services to students and faculty. By visiting the KC-Longview Cosmetology building not only will students be receiving great service, but they will also be able to assist a cosmetology student with their learning. The KC-Longview Cosmetology department offers free basic haircuts, manicures, pedicures and facials to current enrolled KC students. “Our cosmetology students are very conscientious of their clients,” said Joyce Magner, cosmetology director and instructor, “I think they look at them personally like themselves, how they would like to be treated.” To receive free haircut, students must show their up to date KC ID the day they are getting their haircut. KC staff also receives free basics. “From a man working on the grounds to the secretaries in the offices there is no charge,” said Magner. They also offer hair coloring, hair frosting and perms and artificial nails at a cost. “When compared to a salon, we are inexpensive,” Magner said. Not only are you getting a free haircut but you are also helping a cosmetology student gain more experience. “We would like to encourage more KC students to come in,” said Glenda Ford, cosmetology instructor, “It gives the students practice on all diversities.” More male students are encouraged to pay a visit so the cosmetology students can gain more experience cutting on an actual person instead of a mannequin. For students to start cutting hair for the public, they have to be in class for three months or a semester. KC cosmetology students also have an impressive pass rate with 98 percent on cosmetologists, 100 percent on manicurists and 98 percent on estheticians. With prom season right around the
Linda Moody helps Caitlin Barber prepare for a chemical service on customer Patricia Cortley. Denise Macon / THE FLARE
corner for many high schools in the area, KC cosmetology offers manicures for any high school student getting ready for prom. They also visit nursery homes and participate in teacher appreciation week. “They totally love it,” said Ford “Teachers aren’t always appreciated and when we do things of that nature it makes them feel appreciated.” On Mondays and Tuesdays, KC cosmetology will open at noon and stop taking clients at 2 p.m. without an appointment. On Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays they open at 9 a.m. and stop taking clients also at 2 p.m. without an appointment. It is preferable to make an appointment first. To make an appointment call 903753-7730.
Carly White, Chandler freshman, gives Amber Dutton, Hallsville freshman, a spa pedicure. KC students free services, as well as deeply discounted procedures at the KCLongview Cosmetology department. Denise Macon / THE FLARE