KC makes transfer deal with ETBU Articulation affirms accessibility beyond KC
Diana Castillo / THE FLARE
ETBU president Blair Blackburn signs an articulation agreement with KC’s President, Dr. Brenda Kays, during a press conference Wednesday morning.
Tigers and Rangers came together Wednesday morning to celebrate a new cooperative program between East Texas Baptist University and KC. The goal of this articulation agreement is “to offer students (at both schools) access to more enhanced educational opportunities,” according to a KC press release. “Students are the reason that we do what we do and they are at the heart of this merger between ETBU and KC,” said Dr. Brenda Kays, KC president. “This agreement will create more opportunities for students.” Heather Hadlock, vice president of student affairs at ETBU, views
the partnership as a benefit to all students. “It makes for a way for a really easy transition for students, and lets them know that what they are doing here is going to benefit them in the future going toward that four-year degree,” she said. “The community college experience is so important as it is a great place to start, and the partnerships help make those transitions easier for the students wanting to a four-year school.” ETBU President J. Blair Blackburn was himself a product of a community college education, first as a Tyler Junior College Apache cheerleader in the late ‘80s,
and then as a club sponsor at Paris Junior College. “Community college prepares you for a number of jobs, but there are career opportunities that will require a bachelor’s degree,” said Blackburn. The agreement ensures that all hours are considered transferable between the campuses and that both schools will provide support and campus information to prospective students. The agreement also makes available scholarships for special programs to students seeking to transfer, such as an $11,000 scholarship to See Agreement on Page 3
Vol. 81, No. 8 Serving Kilgore College since 1936
November 3, 2017
2.3% n of Texans are hearing impaired.
www.libguides.gallaudet.edu
1,000,000 2,309,000 n Americans are deaf, although 10,000,000 have partial hearing loss.
n people between the ages 1834 are deaf or hearing impaired. www.libguides.gallaudet.edu
www.academic.oup.com
Mason Myers / THE FLARE
Jack Burleson and his interpreter/Grandmother Charlene Burleson sign. Burleson’s grandmother encourages him to succeed in everyday life.
Give me a sign
Interpreter pushes grandson to succeed in welding career SARAH REDFORD News Editor
J
ack Burleson is a young man who knows what he wants to do with his life and he is not letting anything stand in his way.
Burleson, an Overton sophomore, was born
deaf. “My whole family is deaf,” he said. He does not let this slow him down. Burleson wants to be a welder like his father and grandfather, so he is attending KC for formal training. “I have been welding since I was 9 or 10,” he said. Burleson attended Longview ISD from
kindergarten through sixth grade. There was usually an interpreter in his classes. This changed when he started the seventh grade, so his family sent him to Texas School for the Deaf in Austin to finish his education. “TSD taught me how to take care of myself, not just school work,” he said. “They taught me about finances and provided job training.” Burleson chose KC because, “it has a better welding program.” Burleson applied to KC’s Disability Services Office to ask for an American Sign Language (ASL) interpreter. The person assigned to him was his grandmother, Charlene Burleson, a long-time KC employee. “I had to learn ASL when my son, Jack’s daddy, was born deaf, but it took me years to become fluent,” she said. Burleson, who can read lips somewhat, often relies on his phone to communicate
with others, both hearing and non-hearing. “He texts a lot,” Mrs. Burleson said. “I like seeing my grandmother every day. She pushes me to succeed,” Burleson said. “When we are at school, he is a student. He is my grandson at home,” Mrs. Burleson said. One of the difficulties Jack faces at KC is he writes in ASL. “It is harder for my instructors to grade my work,” he said. It can also be difficult for him and his interpreter to keep up in class, especially with technical words. They usually must be spelled out manually and this can cause them to miss part of the lecture. “At home, we have made up signs for complex or new words. We needed a sign for “Schlotzsky’s” so we use the sign for “German,” Burleson said. “One of the hardest things about being deaf is not being able to hear music,” he
said. “I can feel the bass if it is loud enough though,” Burleson said. Jack can hear some sounds, but they do have to be very loud. Burleson recently joined the KC Gaming Club and his grandmother often attends as his interpreter. “I like to play Black Ops II,” he said. “The gamers have been very nice and have accepted Jack and even asked me to join in the games,” Mrs. Burleson said. Burleson foresees there could be difficulties when he graduates from KC and enters the workforce. He plans to stay in East Texas but knows some companies may be hesitant to hire someone who cannot hear. “Welding can be dangerous and I would not be able to hear someone shouting if there was a problem,” he said. Burleson is not daunted by this fact. He said, “My father has managed and I will too.”
THE FLARE
PAGE 2 n FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 3, 2017
FACE IN THE CROWD
Joshah Fielding Hometown: Hallsville Age: 22 Major: Library Science
What skill would you like to master? To put books into the Library of Congress Classification system. What are you looking forward to in the next 10 years? Graduating from Texas Woman’s University (hopefully.)
Grace Garcia / THE FLARE
If you could have dinner with anyone living or dead, who would it be? Marsha P. Johnson, an activist at the 1969 Stonewall riots in
New York. What fad or trend do you hope will come back? 1970’s trend of putting flowers on everything. What website do you visit most often? Tumblr for nerdy Star Trek fandom posts. What TV show or movie do you refuse to watch? “Arrow” is a TV adaptation of
DC Comics “The Green Arrow.” The show totally misrepresents him. They took a non-violent character and made him violent. What is something you will never do again? I will never go swimming in the ocean in June again. It is still cold then. Have you ever given to any charities? The Red Cross, Salvation Army and Operation Christmas Child.
East Texans hit the pipes Nov. 5 Five-day event celebrates organ-maker MOISES ELA NCHAMA Staff Writer The East Texas Pipe Organ Festival celebrates majestic pipe organ music during a five-day festival featuring the Aeolian-Skinner pipe organs designed by Roy Perry. These special organs are housed in churches in Kilgore, Longview and Nacogdoches and Shreveport, Louisiana. Special concerts, exhibits and presentations are sure to intrigue all music lovers. According to Chelsea Katz, Kilgore News Herald reporter, East Texas is about
to be booming. Not from the fracking that is waking the small cities outside of Dallas, but from an arts revival that is tapping into another local resource. The festival will be held November 5-9 and honors the life and work of Roy Perry. Perry was a selftaught organist who began his career playing in silent movie theaters. Kilgore’s Crim family brought him to Kilgore to be the organist at First Presbyterian Church of Kilgore and it is here that Perry made pipe organ history. Although the Aeolian-
Skinner Organ Company of Boston made the church’s organ and the Williams family of New Orleans installed, it was Perry who oversaw the project and finetuned the results. This year’s festival is dedicated to the memory of Nora Williams and will include speakers: Jason Alden, David Baskeyfield, Casey Cantwell, Jonathan Dimmock, Mark Dwyer, Thomas Gaynor, Paul Halley, Frederick Hohman, Jan Kraybill, Alan Morrison, Raul Prieto Ramirez, Michael Shake, Henry Webb and Clark Wilson.
SCHEDULE OF EVENTS Sunday, Nov. 5 - 8 p.m. Opening Concert Raúl Prieto Ramírez, organist First Presbyterian, Kilgore n Monday, Nov. 6 - 10 a.m. Organ Recital Henry Webb, organist St. Luke’s United Methodist, Kilgore 3 p.m. Organ Recital Thomas Gaynor, organist First Presbyterian, Kilgore 8 p.m. Organ Recital Frederick Hohman, organist First Presbyterian, Kilgore n Tuesday, Nov. 7 - 10 a.m. Organ Recital Jonathan Dimmock, organist St. Mark’s Episcopal Cathedral, Shreveport, Louisiana 2:30 p.m. Organ Recital Jason Alden, organist First Baptist, Shreveport, Louisiana 4:45 p.m. Change Ringing followed by 5 p.m. Choral Evensong 6:00 p.m. Organ Recital Paul Halley, organist St. Mark’s Episcopal Cathedral, Shreveport, Louisiana n Wednesday, Nov. 8 - 10 a.m. Duo Organ Recital n
David Baskeyfield and Thomas Gaynor, organists First Presbyterian, Kilgore 2 p.m. Organ Recital Michael Shake, organist St. Luke’s United Methodist, Kilgore, Texas Note: This concert is offered in memory of Emily Cooper Gibson. 8 p.m. Silent Movie “Girl Shy,” starring Harold Lloyd Clark Wilson, organist First Presbyterian, Kilgore n Thursday, November 9 10 a.m. Organ Recital Mark Dwyer, organist First Baptist, Longview, 2:30 p.m. Organ Recital Jan Kraybill, Organist First Baptist, Longview, 7:30 p.m. Closing Concert Alan Morrison, organist First Presbyterian, Kilgore Followed by reception with heavy hors d’oeuvres in Rosa May Griffin Fellowship Hall. Note: This concert is the seventh annual concert honoring Jimmy Culp as organist emeritus of First Presbyterian Church, Kilgore.
BSM packs gift boxes for children Worldwide initiative provides toys KENDALL HURT Staff Writer The Baptist Student’s Ministry will have a packing party in preparation for Samaritan’s Purse “Operation Christmas Child,” from 11 a.m. till 1 p.m. on Nov. 7, during the regular Tuesday free lunch. Operation Christmas Child is an initiative that collects shoeboxes full of gifts, and are then distributed to children in poverty or wartorn countries around the world. These shoeboxes are packed for your choice of a girl or boy. Inside the child should find a “wow toy,” such as a doll, ball or stuffed animal, and the inclusion of school and hygienic supplies is also reccommended.
This year the BSM is attempting to minister to 270 children through Operation Christmas Child, and though they have already started receiving some items, pencil sharpeners, combs, and toothbrushes are still in high demand. For most children it may be the only gift they receive, according to Jaymi Blankenship, BSM director. There are some items that are not allowed, such as toy guns and other “war toys,” liquids, pastes and lotions, and candy or other foods. Volunteers familiar with packing shoeboxes will be available to help students who want to participate. Additional gift suggestions and more information can be found online at www. samaritanspurse.org/occ.
Cooler prize available in raffle From Staff Report What’s cooler than a Yeti? Winning a Yeti cooler by participating in the Physical Therapy Club’s raffle. PT Club is holding a Fall raffle on Thursday, Nov. 16. Tickets are $5 or a bundle of 5 for $20. Buy now for a chance to win YETI merchandise. Proceeds go to support the
PT Students attending the Texas Physical Therapy Association Annual Conference in Corpus Christi and the American Physical Therapy Association National Combined Sections meeting in New Orleans. It will also offset their membership dues. Contact Carla Gleaton at 903-983-8148 for more information.
By The Numbers
4
n KC’s Day of Service begins at 10 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 4 in the Devall Student Center Game Room. Students can garner service hours in the community while helping on the KC campus.
9 n KC will host the Annual Veterans Day event from 1-3 on Thursday, Nov. 9, in the Devall Student Center. Veterans can network and discuss needs.
$3M
Grace Garcia / THE FLARE
Gorilla guy gets grub during the Ranger Cafe’s annual Halloween lunch bash. Pumpkin winners were also announced.
Student fun not scarce on Halloween WHITNEY ERVIN Staff Writer The Ranger Cafe spooked a lot of students out of eating some of the Halloween Spooky lunch served on Tuesday. The spread was creepy, crawley, and creative, but was also judged by a few students as tasty. Last week, they kicked off a pumpkin decorating contest giving away free pumpkins to all participants.
KILGORE SCREEN PRINTING CO.
n U.S. Department of Education gave a $3 million grant to KC to help with infrastructure and online classes.
32
n There have been 32 students who have visited the food pantry 87 times over a semester. Starting Nov. 1, the library will start Food for Fines and Letters from Home campaigns. Bring in canned food to clear overdue library fines and cards and letters to send to military members.
WE PRINT T-SHIRTS& MORE
601A E. MAIN (903) 983-1480
The winners of the Pumpkin Decorating Contest won Ranger Bucks to spend in the cafe: 1st - Moises Ela Nchama 2nd - Anthony Joplin 3rd - Christionna Odom Guess the Big Mac pumpkin weight winner was Laura Mulanax on Monday Oct. 30, the Student Government hosted a movie night in Mike Miller Plaza, and featured a Halloween special, “The Conjuring.”
The event was perfect for students who wanted to come out and enjoy the free snow cones and popcorn while they mixed and mingled during the movie. Charlie’s Snoballs gave out various flavors of snow cones, and they also provided the screen and projector equipment. Laurence Sabeta from KC Housing volunteered his time setting up the popcorn station and served everyone popcorn.
THE FLARE
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 3, 2017 n PAGE 3
Ice cold Coca-Cola Scholarship Former PTK President named ‘Leader of Promise’ LISA HARRIS & YASMINE WILSON Staff Writers
Mason Myers / THE FLARE
Catherine Camp celebrates the acceptance of her $1,000 scholarship from the Coca-Cola Scholar Foundation. The award is given to PTK members with exceptional leadership skills.
Catherine Camp had originally planned to stop after earning a general certificate in Office Administration when she came to KC in 2015. Today, spurred on by the encouragement of her instructors, the former Phi Theta Kappa president will carry $1,000 from the Coca-Cola Leaders of Promise Scholar Foundation to her next endeavor. “To be honest I can’t believe I actually got it, I was selected out of 200 from around the world.” said Camp, Longview sophomore. “It was better to win the scholarship than the actual dollar amount they told me. It’s exciting.” Camp said she enjoyed her classes in the Business Computer Office Management program so much that she decided to complete her associate’s degree. “Part way through the semesters, I found that I enjoyed counseling and teaching others what I had learned from my professors,” she said. “I was told many times that I would make a great counselor or life coach by my classmates. I began thinking about it, and before I knew it I was looking at Liberty University in Virginia and its PsychologyCounseling program. My dream is to finish my core classes at Kilgore and then in the next year and a half, I hope to transfer to Liberty and earn my PhD in Counseling. I enjoy children and talking with kids so I hope to use my gifts and education to work in that field.”
As Camp acclimated to the campus, she got involved in the Gamma Omicron chapter of PTK. The Coca-Cola Leaders of Promise Scholarship Program helps new PTK members defray educational expenses while enrolled in associate degree programs. Scholars are encouraged to assume leadership roles by participating in society programs and are selected based on scholastic achievement, community service and leadership potential. To be eligible for the scholarship you have to be enrolled in a two-year community college, be a member of PTK and an active member in the community. “Being involved in PTK really helped me build relationships in the community and strengthened my leadership skills,” Camp said. She officially calls KC “her first school” since she was home-schooled as a child. Michele Daniels, PTK co-sponsor, considers Camp a good choice. “Phi Theta Kappa prides itself on recognizing and providing opportunities for future leaders who go above and beyond,” Daniels said, “As the award is so fittingly named, ‘Leaders of Promise’ so fits the qualities that no doubt have garnered Catherine this distinguished honor.” Camp is still processing this data. “Kilgore College has done a lot for me and my future. PTK has also taught me a lot about myself. I am so excited about this honor it’s not just a scholarship but a title. It’s surreal to think about.
Straight to the pointe Guest ballet dancer teaches master class JAMIE HWANG Staff Writer
KC
Dance department invited Lexi Johnston, a ballet dancer from Charlotte Ballet, as a guest artist to teach master classes for dance students. On Oct. 25 and 26, she taught a basic ballet technique class that included stretching and combinations at the bar with piano instrumentals of pop music such as “Grenade” by Bruno Mars and “Don’t Let Me Down” by The Chainsmokers playing in the background. She focused on keeping good foot position and changing legs, working with students individually and in groups. It is her second time to teach at KC as she held a ballet class in 2015. Johnston, originally from Kilgore, started taking ballet classes at age 6 with Longview Ballet Theatre under the direction of Pat George Mitchell. Along with her ballet training at LBT, she also took jazz from Tempe Kirby and served on the drill team at Kilgore High School, where she was a captain for her junior and senior years. “I think I started dancing when I was 3. You know that was just like the typical kid dancing and I didn’t start taking ballet until I was 6. I started getting pretty serious with it around age 14. That’s when I realized I could possibly do it for career,” Johnston said. After graduating from high school, Johnston continued her studies in classical ballet and contemporary dance at the University of North Carolina School of the Arts. She graduated in May 2015 with a BFA in Dance with a concentration in Ballet. At UNCSA, Johnston performed in works by George Balanchine, Twyla Tharp, Susan Jaffe, Emery LeCrone, William Forsythe and Ethan Stiefel. “I think what’s really special about ballet is the discipline it requires. I started taking it from an early age so I had to learn quickly putting a bunch of time and effort. The technique is so hard and you can constantly work on new things. That’s probably my favorite thing about it. It never gets boring because there’s always more to work on and there’s always something to strive for. It’s just so hard. It definitely forces you to work hard and study each day with a new goal,” Johnston said. Johnston’s favorite dance genre after ballet is contemporary, “I love contemporary,” she said. “I also admire Misty Copeland because I think her athletic body is absolutely beautiful and the way she promotes being a healthy dancer is really awesome.” Michaela Jones, Kilgore freshman, said “My favorite thing about dance classes is when one of us doesn’t really know how to do
Guest Instructor Lexi Johnston teaches a ballet class of KC students about balance and how to maintain good foot position. Pictured above: Penny Heth, Rachel Green, Madeline Dase and Franklyn Stamps.
Lacey Bunn / THE FLARE
something, we all try to come together and figure it out all together so that no one gets really left behind. We all help everyone to get to the same level to reach their potentials.” Johnston is currently in her third season with Charlotte Ballet. Since joining the company, she has performed in various classical and contemporary works such as Mark Diamond’s Bolero, Jean-Pierre Bonnefoux’s “Sleeping Beauty,” Dwight Rhoden’s “The Groove,” Ohad Naharin’s “Minus 16” and George Balanchine’s
Agreement: ETBU opens options From Page 1 members of KC’s Phi Theta Kappa chapter, Gamma Omicron. “We know that location is challenging, geographically, having to travel, and this agreement allows students in the Kilgore, East Texas area, and Gregg County an opportunity to continue their university studies beyond their community college education and earn a bachelor’s degree,” Blackburn said. “I have a great admiration
for this institution. My dad is a 1955 graduate of KC, and has always had an appreciation for the Rangerettes and the spirit program because he was the yell leader for ’54 and ’55. That inspired me to be a cheerleader at TJC.” Dr. Mike Turpin, KC vice president of instruction, said this agreement can be a boost for many majors. “Anybody that wants to go to a small Christian private school, ETBU is a well-established school and I think students will have
a good experience there.” Also, it’s beneficial to start planning now. “Visit with the people at ETBU as soon as possible so that as (students) are planning courses to take here, they take the courses that are going to fit directly into the program that they want to go into. Our counseling staff can help make some of those connections for students.” compiled by - Whitney Ervin, Lucas Strough, Jamie Hwang
“Rubies.” The best thing about Johnston’s job is being surrounded by artistic people. “I am getting to do something I love with a great group of people that inspire me constantly and keep me inspired and working hard. Just being surrounded by such artistic and talented people is really special,” she said. Jones said “A lot of us have never taken ballet before. I am a jazz dancer and I do Hip Hop and those types of things. It was really out of my comfort zone to go to ballet and
it was new. But she has made the class very comfortable and my confidence came out more and I didn’t realize how good I actually was.” Johnston believes that a lot of effort is needed to become a great ballet dancer and being positive makes a big difference in dancing. “Just have more confidence in yourself and your dancing so that you can be very clear and precise. You can all do it,” she said.
First-gen students recognized through ‘I’m F1rst’ event to be held Nov. 8 in DSC CHRIS WILLIAMS Staff Writer TRiO will cast a spotlight on first-generation college students with the event “I’m F1rst” from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 8, in the Devall Student Center. Light refreshments will be served and all students are encouraged to come by and learn more about the TRiO program at KC. In January 2015, 48 percent of KC students identified as “first-generation,” according to the KC Research and Institutional
Effectiveness office. This means neither parent had earned a bachelor’s degree. Of those 2,613 students, 160 are currently members of KC’s TRiO program. “Since this is such a big part of our population, we want to recognize their efforts,” said Bindy Tice, TRiO director. Part of the festivities include recognizing faculty and staff who were firstgeneration college students by providing them with a sign to put on their doors. “Our goal is to increase dialogue between first-
generation students and KC employees that will foster an attitude of persistence and graduation,” Tice said. TRiO is a federally funded program that helps firstgeneration, low income and disabled students to attain an associate’s or bachelor’s degree. At KC, the program assists students with resources such as academic advising and counseling, a certified tutoring center and a computer lab. For more information, contact Tice at 903-988-7590 or visit www.kilgore.edu/ trio.
THE FLARE
PAGE 4 n FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 3, 2017
Lady Rangers ready to take next step ‘Hungry’ team to take action Saturday in season opener 2017-2018 Women’s Basketball DATE
VERSUS
LOCATION
TIME
Nov. 4 (Sat)
@ Seminole State
Seminole, OK
2pm
Nov. 7 (Tues)
Paul Quinn JV
Home
5:30pm
Nov. 10 (Fri)
@ Tyler Classic
Tyler, TX
3pm
Nov. 11 (Sat)
@ Tyler Classic
Tyler, TX
3pm
Nov. 12 (Sun)
Crowder College
Home
Noon
Nov. 18 (Sat)
@ Paul Quinn JV
Dallas, TX
2pm
Nov. 21 (Tues)
San Jacinto College
Home
5:30pm
Nov. 24 (Fri)
@ Collin Classic
Allen, TX
Noon
Nov. 25 (Sat)
@ Collin Classic
Allen, TX
Noon
Nov. 29 (Wed)
@ Blinn
Brenham, TX
5:30pm
Dec. 2 (Sat)
Coastal Bend College
Home
2pm
Dec. 8 (Fri)
Jacksonville College
Home
2pm
Grant Worley / THE FLARE
Head coach Anna Nimz instructs Tyra Cormier and Alexus Moore during practice while manager Nakia Brown takes pointers. ALEC REYES Staff Writer The KC Lady Rangers come to the hardwood this season as a “hungry” team according to head coach Anna Nimz. Nimz will begin her third season at the helm for the Lady Rangers. “Last year’s team finished sixth place in the conference which left a lot to be desired,” Nimz said. “On top of that, they made a Cinderella run at the end and they finished region runner-up one game from Nationals. As fun as that was, I think they’re ‘hungry’ to make a splash, finish better than sixth, and try their hardest to not be runnerup this season.” Last season, the Lady Rangers went 21-11 overall with a 10-9 record in conference. They finished as the Region XIV runner-up after suffering defeat to Trinity Valley Community College in the finals. The Lady Rangers will begin their season on the road in a 2 p.m. game against Seminole State College in Seminole, Oklahoma. Their
home opener is scheduled for 5:30 p.m. Tuesday, November 7 against Paul Quinn College JV in Masters Gymnasium. Nimz is confident that her squad is well prepared for the upcoming season and that they have the experience that will take them to the next level. “I feel like the girls have had a very good preseason. They’ve worked hard. I think we have a lot of experience coming back which is always fun and we’ve brought in a handful of freshmen and a transfer that I think will bring us to the next level.” Three starters from last year’s team return. They are sophomores Danielle Meador of Corpus Christi, Alexus Moore of Stony Point, and Richelle Velez of Brazoswood. Also returning is former Co-Freshman of the Year Jade Thurman of Ferris. Adding depth to the team are Tyra Cormier, a Houston native and transfer from St. Mary’s University, and freshman Alex Strawhorn of Victoria, Australia. KC was ranked sixth out of eleven teams in the 2017-18 Region XIV Coaches Polls. Trinity Valley
Community College received 11 firstplace votes followed by San Jacinto, Tyler, Panola, and Blinn. Nimz is eager to not only watch her team grow, but also to accomplish their season goals. “What I’m really excited for is to see us grow as players. I think we have a lot of talent,” Nimz said. “I think a goal for us is to come together as a team on the court, to learn how to play within each other, to learn how to truly encompass what it means to be a team, and I think the talent that we have; if we can pull that all together and learn to fight every single day and have a competitive spirit, I think that our success could be endless. So I guess my goals aren’t wins and losses as much as they are to see our team grow. I would definitely enjoy finishing higher than sixth. And we were picked sixth yet again. So we finished runner-up, but we were picked sixth to finish, so I think that’s why we need to be hungry to not prove other people wrong but just set the standard for what we want.”
Grant Worley / THE FLARE
Alicia Mardis, Ft. Lauderdale Florida, sophomore, goes up for a shot during the Lady Rangers Wednesday practice session.
Rangers begin the season with a win Ranger Basketball defeats Louisiana Christian Prep Academy 69-58 in season opener KENDALL HURTT Staff Writer The Rangers tipped off the season with a win at home Wednesday night, defeating Louisiana Christian Prep Academy 69-58. LCPA won the opening tip but quickly turned the ball over, thanks to tight man-toman defense from Kilgore. Offensively, Davon Newton, of Garner, North Carolina, set the tempo for KC starters with a vicious dunk. The fast break allowed them to score, but it also produced numerous turnovers. The Rangers’ slowed down the offense and moved the ball around with the help of guard Darrian Grays, Stockton, Calif. freshman.
This affected Louisiana’s 3-2 zone well into the next half. After halftime, Louisiana Prep pulled within seven but that’s as close as things would get. Samory Gueye, Angers, France, sophomore, scored back-to-back sky hooks; and a dunk by Malachi Davidson, Plano freshman, confirmed who the alpha team was during the remainder of the contest. KC never fell behind, as they secured their first win of the season. Samory Gueye’s 10 points led the scoring category, while Lansana Nwosu grabbed 10 rebounds. The Rangers next game will be Nov. 3-4, at 2 p.m. in Tyler for the Chris Booker Classic.
2017-2018 Men’s Basketball Schedule
Grant Worley / THE FLARE
Davon Newton, Garner, North Carolina sophomore, shoots a basket during KC’s contest against LCPA on Nov. 1
DATE
VERSUS
LOCATION
TIME
Nov. 1 (Wed)
Louisiana Christian Prep
Kilgore, TX
7pm
Nov. 3 (Fri)
TJC Classic: SW Christian
Tyler, TX
2pm
Nov. 4 (Sat)
TJC Classic: Brookhaven
Tyler, TX
2pm
Nov. 11 (Sat)
Lone Star College-Cy Fair
Kilgore, TX
4pm
Nov. 14 (Tues)
Hill College
Kilgore, TX
7pm
Nov. 17 (Fri)
KC Classic vs. Tomball
Kilgore, TX
6pm
Nov. 18 (Sat)
KC Classic vs. Cedar Valley
Kilgore, TX
4pm
Nov. 25 (Sat)
East Texas Flight
Kilgore, TX
4pm
Nov. 29 (Wed)
Angelina College*
Kilgore, TX
7pm
Dec. 2 (Sat)
@ Jacksonville College*
Jacksonville, TX
4pm
Dec. 7 (Wed)
Lee College*
Kilgore, TX
7pm
Dec. 30 (Sat)
Houston CC
Kilgore, TX
4pm
Jan. 5 (Fri)
@ Blinn College*
Brenham, TX
7pm
Jan. 8 (Mon)
San Jacinto College*
Kilgore, TX
7pm
Grant Worley / THE FLARE
Darrian Grays, Stockton, California freshman, goes for a layup against Louisiana Christian Prep at home Wednesday night.
FOLLOW THE GAME ON KDOK WITH THE FOLLOWING FREQUENCIES IN THE EAST TEXAS AREA: 1240 AM/105.3 FM IN KILGORE, 101.9 FM IN LONGVIEW AND 107.9 FM IN HENDERSON. KILGORE COLLEGE SPORTS BROADCASTS ALSO WILL BE STREAMED LIVE ON THE INTERNET AT
WWW.KDOKRADIO.COM, WWW.TSRNSPORTS.COM AND THE
TUNEIN RADIO APP.
THE FLARE
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 3, 2017 n PAGE 5
The Student Newspaper of Kilgore College Since 1936
Vol. 81 • No. 8 Friday, November 3, 2017 Executive Editor Allison Taliaferro Page Editors Lisa Harris Kaitlin Mitchell Sarah Redford Lonnie Ross Lucas Strough Copy Editors Whitney Ervin Kendall Hurtt Gabriel Wade Yasmine Wilson Staff Writers Moises Ela Nchama Jamie Hwang Nelda Milligan-Turner Alec Reyes Chris Williams Photographers Lacey Bunn Diana Castillo Alma Cedillo Taliayah Clark Brooke Harris Grace Garcia Tiffany Johnson Elizabeth Lumpkin Mason Myers Dina Robinson Grant Worley Mary William - Smith Adviser Rachel Stallard
SPEAK
Photo illustration Diana Castillo / THE FLARE
The Freedom to
Nationalism has appeal but can be dangerous for discourse
A
t this time last year, many people labeled 2016 the “worst year ever”. It seems that 2017 is not shaping up to be much of an improvement. Rarely before has the United States been so sharply divided along political and personal lines. Day after day, we are inundated with an endless series of tragedies: racially motivated violence, protests that turn into riots and American citizens slugging it out in the streets over political differences. When a nation is fractured, politicians and news commentators urge the public to put their focus on promoting national interests while shouting down anyone who dares to criticize the status quo. Of course, there is nothing inherently wrong with national pride or working toward improving the nation. In fact, loving your country and your fellow citizens is a hallmark of a civilized society, plus, “America First” certainly sounds patriotic. However, there is a very fine line between patriotism and nationalism. Neither is wrong
or misguided by itself but patriotism is an expression of pride while nationalism implies loyalty to a group to the exclusion of all others. Unrestrained nationalism can result in policies that overreach as well as policies that underperform. For example, a belief that one country is superior to all others can lead to a lack of compassion for residents of other nations. If we are too busy focusing on ourselves, we will not uphold the traditions that have made us world leaders, such as relying on our military to render assistance to nations in crisis or sending skilled doctors overseas. No matter what side of the political spectrum you fall on, it cannot be argued that this country has serious problems which must be addressed. An inward focus can also keep us from making progress on social issues like healthcare and unemployment. After all, if we are already the greatest country on earth, why should we expend time and effort to reform healthcare or help young people work towards a
rewarding career? Nationalism also has a troubling tendency to insist on loyalty while shaming anyone who dares to criticize the establishment. A patriot is a person who is not afraid to criticize the government for corruption or illegal activity, while a nationalist simply says “love the country or leave it.” The freedom to speak up when something seems wrong is the essence of patriotism. Nationalism, however, says that our government is infallible and that any criticism of national policy, elected officials or civil servants is evidence of either a lack of loyalty or even a hatred of freedom. This type of discourse can quickly cause a productive conversation to shut down. There are many ways to express patriotism. It is possible to show love for your country by saluting the flag or paying homage to those who have given their lives in a military conflict to preserve freedom. You can also display patriotism by donating to a local food bank or helping to build houses for those living in poverty. Criticizing something is
not the same as attacking it. It is possible to criticize our militaristic policies while also working to ensure better treatment for veterans. There is nothing unpatriotic about levelling harsh critiques at an elected official when they behave in a way that is unbecoming of their office. This country exists to make a space where freedom of expression is a right instead of a privilege. It’s not an issue of “love it or leave it”. If you really love this country, it’s time to get busy making it a better place. This is not just the responsibility of journalists; it is a task that we all must share. Nationalism leaves little room for subtlety and, as free citizens of a modern country, we should be cautious of it for that very reason. This is not to suggest that those who say that America is the greatest country are mistaken. Using that sense of pride in a positive, constructive way is far more useful than using a time of nationwide problems to create deeper divisions in society.
Fate uncertain for program recipients
W
hatever happened to wanting to help someone? Have people not realized that just because you look or speak different, doesn’t make you better or worse than someone else? In the latest episode of humans versus humans we have the removal of DACA, or Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals. This immigration policy was established by the Obama Administration in the summer of 2012. The basic gist of the policy is that it protects immigrants brought into the United States illegally as minors from being deported. It also provided them with a social security number to get a job, go to school and pay taxes. To qualify for DACA, candidates must have entered the United States before their 16th birthday, have lived continually in the US since June 15th 2007, still be in school, have their GED or be enrolled in the armed forces. Also, candidates
cannot have been convicted of a felony or serious misdemeanors. On top of that, there’s an application fee of almost $500. That’s a lot of hoops to jump through just to have a normal life, without fearing deportation and MAX being separated from your loved CERVANTES ones. With the STAFF WRITER removal of DACA, the fate of almost 1 million young people hangs in the air. Most of them were brought to the U.S. as children by their parents who wanted a better life for their family and had no say in their fate. A lot of you reading this are probably thinking that it’s all fine and dandy but they still broke the law. This is when we must think of the human or at least picture
yourself in their shoes. Imagine going through your day-to-day life and suddenly, you’re told to leave through no fault of your own. Where are you being taken? You’ve heard countless stories of this new country from your parents but you’ve never been there. You don’t speak the language, you don’t know the culture. All of a sudden this is your home now. What do you do? You don’t have family or friends but you’re expected to call this home. This is the fear that almost one million people live with just because they were born in a slightly different location than you. Also, I hate to break it to a lot of people, but deporting 800,000 young people with a dream isn’t going to get your job back at the steel mills or the coal mines. Personally, if it wasn’t for DACA, I wouldn’t be where I am today. For starters DACA, provided me with a Social Security number for work authorization. With that
Social Security number I was able to get a driver’s license. A driver’s license is something most people take for granted, but I had to wait for an executive order to be passed just to have an opportunity to get one. I could finally open up a bank account and move the money under my mattress to a more secure place and get a better night’s sleep as a bonus. More importantly, was having ß peace of mind that I wasn’t going to be forcefully taken away from my friends, family and everything that I’ve worked hard for, and am still working hard for today. That sense of security is gone during these trying times and the only thing left to do is hope. Regardless of our physical features, we’re all just humans trying to achieve a better life. Max Cervantes is a Sophomore Communications major from Longview
Photography Adviser O Rufus Lovett
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 CommunicationsAutomotive Building, Room 125, mailed to The Flare, 1100 Broadway, Kilgore TX 75662 or emailed to: kc_flare@yahoo.com
DISCLAIMER THE FLARE is the student newspaper of Kilgore College and is published every Friday by the journalism department, except during examination periods and vacations. First copy is free, subsequent copies are available for 50 cents. THE FLARE is a member of the Texas Community College Journalism Association and the Texas Intercollegiate press Association. All people holding editorial staff positions are Kilgore College journalism students. Comments and views expressed in THE FLARE reflect the thoughts of the individual writers, and do not necessarily reflect the beliefs or opinions of other students, staff members, faculty members, administrative officers or the Board of Trustees.
Copyright 2017, The Flare. All rights reserved
THE FLARE
PAGE 6 n FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 3, 2017
Spoiler Alert
Rangers miss playoffs, but ruin TJC’s Homecoming, 31-20 KENDALL HURTT Staff Writer
T
YLER — KC’s football season came to a bittersweet close last Saturday as the Rangers finished with a 5-4 overall record (4-3 in conference) after defeating the Tyler Junior College Apaches, 31-20 during TJC’s Homecoming game. Although victorious at the end, the Rangers’ play-off hopes were dashed when Navarro College also pulled off a victory over New Mexico Military Institute. Navarro’s win gave them the fourth and final spot for Southwest Junior College Football Conference playoffs. Trinity Valley Community College earned the top seed in the playoffs followed by Northeastern Oklahoma A&M College at number 2 and Blinn College at number 3. KC finished the regular season in fifth place. In action against the Apaches, KC’s defense began the game with an interception by Korenzo Credit, giving the Rangers a chance to start their offensive drive with energy. However, Kilgore could not convert and was forced to punt; and by chance TJC mishandled the punt. KC took advantage of TJC’s error with a field goal to put the Rangers on the scoreboard first. It didn’t take long for TJC to answer back. On their next drive, Tyler kicked a field goal of their own with 5:55 left in the first quarter to tie the score. Neither side produced any more points the rest of the quarter. Less than 30 seconds into the second quarter, the Apaches crossed the endzone on a 5-yard
rush to take the lead, 10-3. TJC stopped KC from creating anything offensively and on the next Apache possession they kicked a field goal to secure a 10-point lead, 13-3. Kilgore answered with strong offensive drive led by quarterback Jalil Kilpatrick, who threw two huge passes and a 2-yard touchdown pass to cut TJC’s lead to three before halftime. KC began the second half with the ball but had to punt. On the punt, TJC found a way to run it back for a touchdown, giving the Apaches a 20-10 lead, with 13:08 left in the third quarter. However in the face of adversity Kilpatrick looked to Lucky Daniels and connected for a passing touchdown, moving the Rangers within three points, 20-17, with 7:04 left in the third quarter. Tyler couldn’t convert on their next possession but tightened up defensively. But they couldn’t control the punt and forced KC to kick. TJC coughed up the ball on their own 11-yard line and KC took advantage of this mishap by scoring to go ahead, 24-20. Kilgore’s defense forced TJC to punt. Upon regaining control of the ball, KC’s Kilpatrick took this offensive opportunity to score for himself on a 21- yard rush extending the Rangers lead, 31-20, with 11:54 remaining in the contest. With enough time remaining the Apaches pulled themselves close enough to the endzone to score, but fumbled and failed to recover it. Kilgore ran out the remaining minutes to conceal their victory over TJC, 31-20 to finish the season.
Grant Worley / THE FLARE
KC defensive back Edward Hayes intercepts a pass during the Ranger’s game against TJC
Alma Cedillo / THE FLARE
Feature twirler Abby Rhodes tosses multiple batons during halftime
Grant Worley / THE FLARE
The Rangerettes exit the field after performing their traditional high-kick routine.
2017 SCHEDULE Aug. 26
Tyler Junior College
Sept. 9
Arkansas Baptist College
Sept. 16
@ Cisco College
Sept. 23
Blinn College
L 24-16
Sept. 30
@ Northwestern Oklahoma A&M College
L 42-14
Oct. 7
New Mexico Military Institute
Oct. 14
@ Navarro College
Oct. 21
Trinity Valley Community College
W 37-31
Oct. 28
@ Tyler Junior College
W 31-20
Overall Record: 5-4-0 (4-3 SWJCFC) Alma Cedillo / THE FLARE
KC offensive linemen push Tyler Junior College defenders out of the way in order to make a hole for quarterback Jacob Frazier to run through during the Rangers game against the Apaches.
L 22-8 W 55-0 W 41-13
W 17-15 L 52-17