The Flare Vol. 78 No. 13

Serving Kilgore College since 1936

Friday, February 6, 2015

VICTORIA WHITWELLManaging Editor

The weeks are counting down to the opening night of Rosencrantz and Guildenstern Are

Dead. Originally planned to open in the Fall 2014 semester, the play was postponed due to unforeseen setbacks. With a new year, a new semester, and even some new people in the cast, the theatre department is “working quickly and efficiently” in high hopes for the production.

“I’ve struggled with how to classify what we’re doing as a second chance or as a continuation or to just think of [Rosencrantz and Guildenstern Are Dead] as something fresh and new that hasn’t been done before,” said Micah Goodding, director. “I’m comfortable with a combination of

all three.”Goodding and the cast see this

opportunity as a “benefit to explore things they only were able to touch on in the past.” Given four more weeks to work on the show, Goodding has had more time to think about the thematic elements of the play and focus more on the details that worked for the production.

“There is no wasted time for the ideas that didn’t work,” Goodding said. “We now have a specific idea, can revisit some original ideas, and then go deeper into them. What makes this play so special is that it is the type of play you can spend a lot of time on.”

The play may be the same, but there is a new “mix of people” in the cast. Some people may have the same roles, while others have been switched. Due to some students graduating or moving on, there

are new accompanying members in the cast as well.

One of these new members is Taylor Farrell, who plays Rosencrantz. According to Goodding, Farrell was never able to participate in productions due to what his previous major required of him schedule-wise. Now that Farrell has chosen theatre as his major, he is able to do what he always has wanted to do.

Sheridan Baze who plays both Horatio and a guard, along with Dera Cardozo who plays an ambassador are also new to the cast. Both cast members have had experience in theatre from high school, but “Rosencrantz and Guildenstern are Dead” is their first college theatre production. Goodding is confident that the new cast members will catch up with

See THEATRE on Page

JULIANNA KENDALLStaff Writer

KC will be holding the Health Occupations Job Fair 1-3 p.m., Feb. 17, and the Spring Job Fair 9-11 a.m., March 5, in the Devall Student Center Ballroom.

“It’s a great opportunity for students to find more about the career they want to pursue, or if they don’t know, what is out there after graduating from college,”

Candace Heezen, Career Service support specialist, said.

The job fairs will allow students to speak to employers about upcoming job opportunities within their workforce, as well as learn more information about what the jobs have to offer.

There will be many hospitals and other healthcare facilities being represented at the Health Occupations Job Fair. Some include: Good Shepherd Medical

Center, The Willows, East Texas Treatment Facility and Rusk State Hospital.

The Spring Job Fair will have many East Texas police departments being represented, as well as the Dallas Police Department. Other possible employers include: Convergys, FESCO, Alpha Pipeline Integrity Services and Longview ISD.

“We have had many students prepared with resumés and

ended up getting a job because they were able to talk to them and show them what they have to offer,” Heezen said.

Students can visit the KC website and find Job Search Tools and Resources under Career Services and select “Optimal Resume.” Students will then be able to insert their information, submit it and allow it to be reviewed by the career services personnel.

KATHRYN AGEEExecutive Editor

KC faculty and student representatives from The Flare, PTK, SGA, and TRIO. KC President Bill Holda was also in attendance.

The bi-annual Community College Day was hosted by the Texas Association of Community Colleges at the Capitol in Austin on Tuesday, Feb. 3rd.

The TACC has worked with students, faculty, and administrators from community colleges all over Texas to host Community College Day. It affords students the chance to tell their stories of how community college has changed their lives to their legislators face to face.

Community College Day begins with a rally on the steps of the Capitol. The importance of community colleges to Texas’ future was a common thread in the testimonies given by the speakers.

Dr. Richard Rhodes, president of Austin Community College, spoke of the importance of students letting their legislators know about their personal community college experience. “Telling your story is critical,” he said. “The pathway to success is through community college.”

Lydia Santibanez, the Community College Association of Texas Trustees Chair, said this year’s gathering was the largest number of attendees for Community College Day. “Know all of you are seeking education that will enhance your life and the Texas economy. Community college is an affordable and quality pathway to education.”

The keynote speaker was Representative Jimmie Don Aycock. He was elected to the Texas Legislature in 2006, and is the chairman of the public education committee. Aycock authored House Bill 5, which passed in 2013. This bill restructured graduation and testing requirements in Texas.

“I care deeply about education at all levels,” he said. “You are the future of Texas. Community college is an integral part of the education process.” Like Rhodes, he encouraged students to “tell your stories, speak your mind.” He told his story of being on his family’s cotton patch when his mother ran up to him with his college acceptance letter, and how many community college students are the first members of their family to attend college.

“Today I stand before you humbly,” he said. “What you are doing will change not just your life, but the lives of your children and grandchildren. Hang with it, it’s worth it. Don’t give up, find something that moves you forward in life.”

Senator Larry Taylor of District 11 spoke of the many doors community college can open. “We live in a land of freedom where opportunity reigns,” he said. “A dream is only a dream until you make it come true. Community college can make that dream come true. Many different dreams and paths led all of you to community college to make your dreams a reality. You are not only improving

See CAPITOL on Page 8

‘Rosencrantz and Guildenstern’ lives on

Capitol Day in Austin

Job fairs, site offer employment opportunities

From left: Taylor Farrell, Reid McDonald and Brett Lee rehearse a scene from Rosencrantz and Guildenstern are Dead, which will run Tuesday, Feb. 24 through Sunday, March 1.

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Community College Day aims to strengthenfuture of Texas

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PAGE TWO THE FLARE

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Why did you decide to attend Kilgore College?

I picked Kilgore because I really wanted to be a twirler there, and unlike huge universities I knew I wouldn’t get lost going to class, which is something that happens to me a lot.What do you look forward to accomplishing this semester?

This semester I would really like to improve my acting, karate, and twirling skills!What are some of your favorite memories as a twirler?

My favorite memories are half-time at the football games. Nothing beats the adrenaline rush and excitement of performing on the field!What are some of your favorite classes and teachers at KC?

I’d have to say the theatre classes I’m taking (sorry algebra). My favorite teachers are my theatre teacher Mr. Goodding, English teacher Mr. Harris (because he’s really funny) and my twirling teacher Ms. Paige.What are the fandoms closest to your heart?

Harry Potter, Jonjou Romantica (I’m not afraid to admit this!), Korean drama Playful Kiss, and definitely Fairy Tail. When it comes to these four I am a HUGE fangirl!Which Hogwarts house are you a member of ?

Ravenclaw house, baby! I guess I can’t help being so clever. XDHow do you come up with your clothing style?

I really don’t know. At my high school, we had uniforms and a dress code. When I went to college, I kind of just went crazy with clothes! A lot of my clothing influences come from Hot Topic combined with Korean styles.What fictional character would you most like to meet?

If I could meet a fictional character it would have to be Dumbledore. He’s such a wise and interesting character that I often wonder what crazy stuff he’d say to me. Who is your favorite comic book hero and villain and why?

My favorite comic book hero is Batman because he’s the ultimate hero. He overcame his past and trained himself to become someone people can count on. My favorite villain would have to be the Joker because he’s so sadistic and creepy and truthfully, I know it’s pretty weird, but I have a crush on him. What is the biggest challenge you have had to overcome in

your life?

Definitely losing my mom and dad when I was a child. Even though I have a loving family now, I’ve always missed and longed for my biological family.Coffee or tea?

Coffee, preferably chocolate chip frappés. I have a serious addiction to caffeine.If you could take a vacation to any place, where would you

go and why?

I would go to South Korea because it’s somewhere I’ve been planning on going and I just really love Korean culture and style.Where do you see yourself in ten years?

In ten years? Sexy, out of college, a starring actress, and engaged to Darren Criss. Hey, you asked!

Christina Lloyd9HPU�*VOU���THE FLARE

FACE IN THE CROWD

Sweet gifts make for a special Valentine’s Day

Stay winter grounded in cold days

NTHS awards for students

Age: 18 Hometown: Kilgore&ODVVLÀFDWLRQ��Freshman

TIFFANY GRIGG

Staff Writer

Climbing out from his cozy burrow, Punxsutawney Phil, a world famous groundhog and part-time weather forecaster, predicted six more weeks of winter this past Monday, Feb. 2, so don’t put your winter gear away just yet.

Dating back to 1887, the tradition was born in the town of Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania. Originally the groundhog was named Pete, but due to a journalist’s typo in a published article, the groundhog’s name was changed to Phil, and Phil it has stayed.

To remain safe throughout the remaining wintery days, KC students are encouraged to adhere to the following winter safety tips:• Student drivers must check the cold

temperature PKI of tires to ensure their tire pressure is at the right level

• Dress warmly and wear sensible shoes for the cold weather

• Carry an ice scraper and de-icer in your car and make sure you can see out of all windows before setting out

• In case of snow, carry a bag of kitty litter in your car; it provides traction for tires if your vehicle gets stuck

• Allow more time for your commute; roads can get icy in colder temperatures, especially after a night of rain

• Be careful walking around campus, mainly the bridge, which can ice over

• Allow your car to warm up before you leave; ensure your defroster is on

Be safe and stay warm!

MAX CERVANTES

Staff Writer

The National Technical Honor Society (NTHS) is an honor society for outstanding career and technical students of workforce vocational education institutions in the United States. It was established in 1984 because little was being done to acknowledge career and technical education.

NTHS offers scholarships to its members. It also provides letters of recommendation and opportunities to be recruited by top corporations throughout the United States. “I was honored,” said Vanesa Blackshire, Longview sophomore and charter member of KC’s NTHS. “My hard work got me noticed.” NTHS also offers the chance for people to be inducted into an honor society who have never had an opportunity. “The most exciting part was seeing my children see me being inducted,” Blackshire said.

Other benefits include personal letters of recommendation for employment, college admission and scholarships provided by NTHS National Headquarters. Members also receive a membership certificate, presentation folder, pin, ID card, graduation tassel, a letter of recommendation customized for the student’s career portfolio and official NTHS seal to be applied to the member’s diploma or training certificate.

In order to be invited to be a member of the NTHS, a student must be nominated by an instructor. The instructor uses the following criteria in order to be selected nominees: The student must have a 3.5 GPA, good attendance, exemplary classroom performance and have completed at least 15 hours in their major field.

For more info, contact Traci Thompson or Sheri Burlingame at 903-236-2007.

Valentine’s Day is approaching soon, and some people are still try-ing to figure out what to get for their significant other. With a little help from BuzzFeed, below are some fail-proof gifts!Giftwrap a mason jar full of

only Lucky Charms marshmal-

lows. “I only eat the marshmallows to get to the cereal,” said no one ever. Show some appreciation by giving your Valentine what he or she really wants!Share your Netflix password.

Not only does this gift opens a door to a new form of cheap entertain-ment, but it also opens a door to a new level of trust. Only give this gift with your best judgment though. Give them 52 reasons. Take a

deck of cards and put a reason why

you love your Valentine on each card. So sweet!Have you “REESEntly” told your

Valentine you love them? Nothing says, “I love you” like peanut butter and chocolate! Any pun-lover is sure to love a box of Reese’s peanut butter cups with a note that writes, “Have I “REESEntly told you how much I appreciate you?”Bake a heart cake. Make a gift

you’ll both enjoy! Cut a circle cake in half, and add those pieces to the adjacent corners of a square cake. Decorate it with icing and sprinkles. Yum!Create a compliment jar. For the

not-so-good days, your Valentine will always have their compliment jar to make them feel better! Write down all your positivity on colorful strips

of paper and stuff them in a jar with decorations that come from your heart. Buy your Valentine breakfast.

Start off the day with your Valen-tine’s breakfast of choice! Make a personal Valentine’s

Day playlist. Create an atmo-sphere of love with your Valentine’s favorite songs. Show that you care by letting them play all day!Spend a night under the stars

in the city of stars. Go stargazing at night. Take some time to just con-nect under the stars at a park.Make a memory mosaic. Create

a piece of art by putting together a mosaic filled with memories, pictures, and so on. Any Valentine would appreciate this walk down memory lane! �7OV[V�PSS\Z[YH[PVU�I`�;PUH�>HSSZ���THE FLARE

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FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 6, 20153PAGE

THEATRE: Postponement

gives time for additional work

DAVID MCCARTYStaff Writer

Savannah Solis, a 10 year old girl from Chapel Hill

Elementary School, spent her Christmas break preparing thank you cards for police officers across America.

During this time she personally created more than 600 cards and has traveled to more than 20 police departments. Her sole purpose is to simply thank officers for all that they do.

With the police incidents that have occurred recently, this young girl wants to inspire and thank thousands of officers for their dediation and sacrifice.

In a letter she read to the KCPD, she stated that she is “honored to speak for her generation.”

My goal is to tell as many police officers as I can that I love them and that I’m thankful for all that they do for us” she said.

Giving inspiration to the people who serve communities she went on to say, “My heroes, I want to say don’t stop, please don’t give up. Many do not care or appreciate the sacrifice that you make, but I do.”

With a compelling speech that was drawing tears like a fresh onion, this girl simply appreciates everything that the police officers do. She got on the

Thank you cards inspire nationwide journeyintercom at her school and inspired other students to write thank you notes.

Solis was inspired to thank offciers after she saw an interview on TV about the New York City police assassination. The loss of the officers really hit home. She has personally written letters to the family of Rafael Ramos and Wenjian Liu. She has been invited to share a platform with Ramos in New York City where she will be able to thank NYPD officers personally.

Solis plans on growing up to become a police officer herself, specifically a K-9 Officer. The love that she shares has inspired others. She shows that a young person can inspire change the world, and that is exactly what she is doing.

She said many people do not give the proper amount of respect to the officers that risk their life daily for our protection. And that’s exactly what she is trying to prove.

“Savanna, you’re a real blessing to us”, said KCPD Chief, Heath Cariker. Jack Lanier and his fellow officers gave a small statue of a policeman and a young child along with badges and other gifts. She started a fund for fallen and wounded police officers, selling T-shirts with her slogan “They matter to me” written across them. The shirts are $20 and goes toward a scholarship fund

for the families of the fallen officers. Her next stop will be in Fort Worth to deliver a check and T-shirt to the police officer that was shot, simply just to say thank you.

“We need good kids like we need good cops,” Cariker said.

She stated, “Please keep taking care of us because I will always respect you, I will always honor you and I will always pray that God keeps you safe.”

To get involved with Solis’ mission or purchase one of her shirts, visit the page “Help Savanna Say Thank You” on Facebook.

2*7+�VɉJLY�1HJR�3HUPLY�WYLZLU[Z�:H]HUUH�:VSPZ� center, with gifts in return for the Thank You

card she sent them, and also for her work to help raise appreciation for police departments.

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FROM PAGE 1

the others. As for the older cast

members, Goodding is taking the added time he’s been given to allow these members to go deeper into their roles and have an even richer understanding of the humanistic themes of the play such as death, passing of time, and the beauty of the characters’ lives knowing the outcome of the play.

For all members of the production, Goodding hopes that they enjoy the creative process as much as he does and wants to “dwell on the deserving with a sense of urgency.”

“Maintaining flexibility and having new experiences are essential skills for theatre training,” Goodding said. “There is still the unpredictable, so the [cast members and technicians] need to be prepared.”

Though Goodding says there is something Rosencrantz and Guildenstern Are Dead has for someone at every level, he believes the more familiar someone is with Hamlet, the better. He also emphasizes that in spite

of the play’s central theme being death, Rosencrantz and Guildenstern successfully explores this theme without being dark or morbid.

Goodding added that with his casts’ familiarity with the theme of death, the production is “approached with a lot of maturity.”

The KC Theatre Department will present Rosencrantz and Guildenstern are Dead beginning at 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 24, through Friday, Feb. 27, with a matinee performance at 2:30 p.m. Sunday, March 1 in the Van Cliburn Auditorium. General admission tickets are $10 for adults, $7 for students and $5 for KC students with a student ID. The play is appropriate for all ages, however, children under the age of seven will not be admitted. Late arrivals will also not be admitted. The box office will open one hour prior to each performance. For reservations, call 903-983-8126 or email the KC Theatre Box Office at boxoffice@kilgore.edu. Reserved tickets may be picked up at the Box Office beginning one hour before the performance.

HUNTER LOHREntertainment Editor

The KC Visual Arts Programs will host the annual Secondary Art Symposium for secondary school and their students on Friday, Feb. 6, from 8:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. on the Kilgore Campus

Student portfolios will be on display Friday morning in the Devall Student Center Ballroom followed by art demonstrations and critiques of students’ pieces in Van Cliburn Auditorium. KC is expecting 300 students to attend the event.

Awards will be presented to students for outstanding portfolios, including 10

scholarships to KC, ranging from $800 to $2,000.

Winning entries will be announced at 1:15 p.m. in Van Cliburn Auditorium

“The purpose of the symposium is to avail professionals ( a r t i s t s / i n s t r u c t o r s ) for consultation and demonstrations that might provide insight and renew enthusiasm for teaching art,” said Carolyn Fox-Hearne, KC art instructor and gallery director.

The symposium will also provide the opportunity for teachers and students to see a cross-section of work from schools participating in the High School Portfolio Competition, sponsored by the KC Art Department.

Students from area counties attending the symposium will enter art portfolios judged by jurors Merrie Wright and James Pace, art professors at UT Tyler.

For more information call Fox-Hearne at 903-983-8128.

Secondary Art Symposium Friday

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Check us out

online at

S POR T STHE FLARE

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 6, 20154PAGE

Show up to our job fairs prepared with help from Career Services.

We can assist you in preparing your resumé at our office in the

Student Support Building, Room 111.

Or call or e-mail us to talk about other ways we can help you take a solid first step on your chosen

career path. 903-983-8678 or careerservices@kilgore.edu

Let us help you look

ready to work!

DEVIN BROOKSSports Editor

The KC Rangers Men’s basketball team wins yet another close game in this heavily competitive conference. They defeated their rival the Tyler Junior College Apaches 68-63 to move into a tie for fourth place in the National Junior College Athletic Association Region 14 conference.

KC is 15-7 on the year and 7-5 in conference play to this point. They are about to start the second half to their conference games, and they need all the wins they can get to inch closer to that first place spot which is currently tied with Trinity Valley Community College and San Jacinto College who both have 10-2 records in conference.

KC once again made plays down the stretch that secured the win. They are on a three game winning streak, and they have proved that they can win close games when it is down to the wire. They shot

33 percent from the field for the game and 43 percent from the three-point line.They also shot 78 percent from the free throw line, which proved to be their strength when the game is on the line.

KC has won 4 out of their last 5 games which have all been decided by less than 13 points, and in all four of the five wins they have found a way to make clutch free throws and clutch baskets around the rim while keeping the opponent from scoring. That is something that they have shown all season long.

When the game is tight and the time is running short KC seems to find a way to pull out the victory. They find a way to win even when it looks like they will lose. That has been their headline lately throughout these last five games. That’s a trait that every team needs to be successful in this conference.

KC had 33 rebounds for the game. TJC held KC to just one shot for most of the game because KC had four

offensive rebounds plus 29 defensive rebounds. Both teams kept each other off the glass on the offensive end. KC dished out assists as a team and only committed 11 turnovers for the game.

Guard Bakari Copeland recorded a huge double-double in the win. He poured in a season-high 25 points and 10 rebounds including four three pointers and 11 out of 14 free-throws for the game while Jonathan Milligan scored 20 points along with 12 huge free-throws and he dished out four assists.

KC will look to continue their winning ways in their next game when they host the first place the TVCC Cardinals. The last time TVCC came to Kilgore they lost by single-digits in a back-and forth thriller.

KC lost to TVCC earlier this year by three points when they traveled to Athens so they hope to avenge their loss and defeat them in the front of the home crowd. Tip-off is set for 4 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 7, at Masters Gymnasium.

Rangers poised for playoffs

NAME HT WT POS HIGH SCHOOL

Marcus Allen 6’0 215 LB Dickinson

Josh Bolfing 6’1 185 QB Montgomery

Garrett Bowery 6’2 285 OL Union Grove

Devin Dudley 6’3 275 OL Houston Westside

Troy Duran 6’0 180 K/P Longview – Spring Hill

Marquice Dye 5’11 180 DB Elberton, Ga.

Quay Evans 6’0 260 DL Mt. Vernon

Tyarius Hackett 6’2 205 LB Alto

De’Angelo Hubert 6’0 210 LB South Grand Prairie

Kendall Jennings 6’2 270 OL DeSoto

Jaylon Johnson 6’1 180 DB Baton Rouge, La.

Khalil Johnson 6’6 250 DE Dallas – Kimball

Quindarius Kizzee 6’4 225 TE Huntsville

Corian LeDay 6’2 270 DL LaMarque

Alex Latham 6’6 215 ATH Clevland Tarking-ton

Myron Chapman takes a hard drive to the rim against the Tyler Junior College Apaches.

E’Lexus Hodge / THE FLARE

KC moves into 4th in conference

following three straight wins

D’Marcus Lott 6’0 280 DL Dallas – South Oak Cliff

Cameron Martin 6’1 225 QB Dickinson

Javon Mosley 6’7 305 OL Ft. Worth – O.D. Wyatt

Ja’VieOntae Mumphrey 6’4 215 DE Alto

Nick Orange 6’3 195 WR Kilgore

L’Darius Pope 5’11 185 ATH Alto

Jack Rogers 5’11 175 K White Oak

Jamez Russell 6’3 285 OL Spring Dekaney

Shannon Simpson 5’10 230 RB Lancaster

Keeyon Smart 6’5 310 OL Baton Rouge, La.

Anthony Smith 6’2 225 DL Dallas – Skyline

Will Smith 5’10 175 ATH Hempstead

Fredarian Tompkins 6’4 250 DE Hempstead

Takadrae Williams 6’2 175 DB Dallas – South Oak Cliff

Jarod Wood 6’2 205 TE Kilgore

Keffrien Wydermyer 6’1 175 DB Dickinson

Q 31 new recruits sign

to play with the KC

Ranger football team

for the 2015-16

season.

SIGNING DAY

RESULTS

S POR T STHE FLARE

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 6, 2015 5PAGE

DEVIN BROOKSSports Editor

The KC Lady Rangers were defeated by

the Tyler Junior College Lady Apaches

80-75 giving them their third straight loss

during conference play. This loss puts

KC at 6-14 overall with a 3-10 conference

record. They are currently in tenth place

in the conference. KC played TJC close the

entire game. They shot 36 percent from the

field for the game, 64 percent from the free

throw line, but only 9 percent from the

three-point line. KC has a 4-8 record this

season when they shoot 20 or less percent

from the three-point line with most of

the losses coming in conference play.

KC has battled through injuries all

season. They have had numerous injuries

to key post players and guards that have

hindered them from playing up to their

full potential for most of the season.

KC was outrebounded by the Lady

Apaches 67 to 26. The biggest stat of the

game is that TJC had 42 offensive rebounds

to KC’s nine, which means they had

numerous second chance opportunities to

score instead of just one per possession.

KC couldn’t hold TJC off the boards and

that is one glaring stat that gave TJC an

advantage in the game.

KC has limited size in the paint due to

injuries and TJC took full advantage down

in the paint. KC also had 27 turnovers to

TJC’s 17.

Rebounds and turnovers are a big part of

basketball and the Lady Rangers struggled

to produce in both of those categories in

this game.

Guard Imaobong Akpan led KC with 19

points and two blocks and two rebounds.

Mariah Hopkins added eight points and

two blocks for the game.

KC’s next contest will be against the

two-time defending NJCAA Champions

Trinity Valley Community College Lady

Cardinals. KC lost to TVCC in their

last meeting 70-49 so they are looking to

get some redemption the second time

around.

That game will tip-off at 2 p.m. Saturday,

Feb. 7, at Masters Gymnasium.

Lady Rangers on the ball

LOGAN HOLLOWAYStaff Writer

KC’s softball team started

their season on Friday,

Jan. 30, in the Galveston

Tournament, splitting

two games. In the early

matchup versus Blinn, the

Rangers fell into a quick

6-0 deficit before finally

suffering an 8-1 defeat. In

the late game against the

Alvin Community College

Lady Dolphins, the Lady

Rangers were able to rally

behind two sixth inning

doubles from Lexi Lopez

and Marisa Ledkins, each

earning an RBI, to climb

out of a 6-5 hole and take

the eventual final lead with

a score of 7-6.

Hayley Vavra was handed

the loss versus Blinn,

striking out two and

walking six while allowing

five runs on nine hits in

seven innings. Bianca

Van Vlerah had two of the

Rangers four hits in the

defeat, including a double,

and Lexi Lopez and Vavra

each added singles as well.

Leandra Lopez led the

Lady Rangers with three

singles in the victory with

her final one resulting

in Ledkins’ RBI. Morgan

Woodruff went 2-3 at the

plate and earned an RBI

as well. Ledkins, Lexi

Lopez, Renee Jones, Hayley

McCullers and Angelica

Gonzalez each contributed

a hit. Jordyn Rogers earned

the win, striking out seven

and allowing four runs on

10 hits in seven innings.

KC completed tournament

play with a 1-4 record.

In the 4-2 loss to McLennan,

Van Vlerah singled and

doubled, and Lexi Lopez and

Ledkins each earned RBIs,

while Vavra shouldered the

pitching loss.

Rogers was dealt the 4-0

defeat by San Jacinto while

Taylor Sieber led the team

with three hits on three

at bats. Jones, Gonzalez

and Mallory Ford each

contributed a hit.

In a 15-5 loss to LSU-

Eunice, Lexi Lopez tripled

and drove in two runs,

while Ledkins doubled,

singled and earned one RBI.

Keambria Hunter also drove

in a run on one hit. Jones

earned the pitching loss.

RICHARD NGUYENAssistant Sports Editor

The Lady Rangers split a

double header against the

Grayson County College

Lady Vikings on Wednesday.

The Lady Vikings took the

first game with a convincing

11-0 win.

KC committed five

errors, costing them four

runs. Jordan Gunderson

led Grayson behind a

dominating pitching effort.

Gunderson pitched the entire

game, allowing 4 hits.

The Lady Rangers answered

in the second game with a 7-3

victory behind strong hitting

from Madison Goolsby,

Mariah Goguen, and Mallory

Ford who all contributed two

hits in a 12-hit game for KC.

Jordyn Rogers pitched a

nearly flawless game for the

Lady Rangers despite giving

up a run in first inning. The

Lady Rangers offense would

explode in the third inning,

scoring five runs behind

Renee Jones’ three RBIs.

The Lady Rangers will

host the KC Invitational

Saturday, Feb. 7, at Stream-

Flo Field in Kilgore. KC will

play Cisco College at 10 a.m.

and McLennan Community

College at 4 p.m.

Darreion Clark takes on a Tyler Junior College defender.

;PɈHU`�1VOUZVU����THE FLARE

Ryanne Lunceford THRLZ�H�WSH`�H[�[OL�WSH[L�[V�ZH]L�H�Y\U�PU�[OLPY�VWLULY�HNHPUZ[�.YH`ZVU;PɈHU`�1VOUZVU���THE FLARE

Lady Rangers stumble in opener

KC splits double header in home opener

ELIJAH BANKS

Staff Writer

The cardio workout

known as a “dancing

fitness party” called

zumba is held in the

Fitness Center in the

afternoons on Mondays,

Wednesdays, and Fridays

from 1 p.m. to 1:50 p.m.

and at night on Tuesdays

and Thursdays from 6

p.m. to 7 p.m.

Aqua Zumba is also

available in the Fitness

Center on Wednesdays

from 2 p.m. to 3 p.m. Full

time KC employees and

students are able to join

the class for free, as long

as they have their KC ID.

The cost for a non-student

or full time employee is

$37 per month, and the

family package is $47

a month. The cost for

seniors 65 or older, and

part–time students is $20.

For one day, the cost is

only $5.

Zumba is an aerobic

workout that mainly

consists of Latin

Connie Vancini SLHKZ�H�;\LZKH`�UPNO[�JSHZZ�VM�A\TIH�Z[\KLU[Z�H[�7HYRZ�-P[ULZZ�*LU[LY�� ;OL�3H[PU�PUZWPYLK�KHUJL� PZ� H�WVW\SHY�L_LYJPZL�WYVNYHT�HJYVZZ�[OL�JV\U[Y �̀��

;PɈHU`�1VOUZVU����THE FLARE

Join the dance party with zumba

movements and dance steps.

The two instructors are

Carmen Millard and Connie

Vancini. Millard teaches

the afternoon class while

Vancini instructs the night

classes.

Samrawit Gebrehiowt,

Waco freshman said, “I love

zumba because it’s a lot of

exercise, fun, and I love to

dance”.

For more information

about the class, you can call

Parks Fitness Center 903-

983-8631

A D V E R T I S EM EN TTHE FLARE

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 6, 20156PAGE

There is nothing more passively entertaining than the American media.

For the people taking the time to read, how long will this message stick before the next “tragedy” takes place?

We don’t get enough likes for our social networking facades and our Nikes are so last season. How do we even make it through the day without wearing our too-tight pink leggings as we sip on some Starbucks flat white?

We definitely can’t walk out the door without our Fitbits.

Like literally, we can’t. Oh by the way, the Boko Haram

viciously slaughtered more than 40 people in Nigeria within the recent week, according to the Associated Press.

An eight-year-old boy in France is defending the terrorists who “left 12 people dead and launched three days of terror in the Paris region that killed a total of 20 people” in the Charlie Hebdo attacks.

Has anyone heard the latest news of the Japanese journalist being held hostage?

Literally, we can’t. We can’t continue to allow the

shadows of our materialistic worries to cast over our hearts for these people.

We hear about the tragedies, but do we actually listen?

It wasn’t until a few months ago that I even knew what the Boko Haram was, and they have been around for at least 13 years. The only way I knew about them was from my friend who is an exchange student from Nigeria. It took someone to travel 6,450 miles to inform me on a terrorist movement that could have easily been covered

in the American media. Then again, I was probably too

worried about my eyebrows being “on fleek” to even give this matter the time of day.

I didn’t realize the depth of my ignorance towards these people’s sufferings until a living, breathing soul from the very country of this terrorism expressed her concerns for her family and friends. Once enlightened, my heart dropped knowing the story would soon be forgotten.

When did the news become entertainment?

A better question: when did society give permission for the news to become entertainment?

The headline’s nice. The pictures are grotesque. The story is informative.

“At least it’s them and not us. Where are we going to eat?”

This is the harsh reality for the empathetic conditions of the American majority.

Now some people would say that Nigeria is still a developing country which makes them more vulnerable to these acts of terrorism, so Americans can’t really empathize.

What about Paris, France? This first world country was attacked in broad daylight.

Somehow that’s not enough. Maybe the irony of an Islamic terrorist group getting revenge on the satirical publication will spice up the story, right?

Whatever can pull on my

American heartstrings for fifteen minutes. These American heartstrings that have been hardened by the petty cares of this world that I mistakenly thought revolved around me. The same American heartstrings that only process the demographics of the injured and fatally wounded.

What is more disturbing is that the American media only sees these events as their “next big story” and not the baby girl who was burned to death in front of her father before he was decapitated. Did anyone think about the Muslim police officer who was shot in the head defending the victims of the Islamic terrorist attack?

The lives taken don’t meet the standards of importance compared to which shade of red lipstick Taylor Swift wears.

Has it sunk in yet?If so, for how much longer?Either the American media needs

to talk about these events more, or society needs to demand the American media to talk about these events more.

American media cannot feed its nation solely on what its people want to hear. The coverage of world events should never have the intentions of tickling an audience’s ears, but to ignite a change for the better and an empathy to restore what has been lost. These tragedies aren’t attractions, but reminders that the nations as a human race have a responsibility for one another.

Any more news on the Japanese hostage?

Victoria Whitwell is a sophomore mass communications major for Kilgore.

VICTORIAWHITWELLManaging Editor

From the Editors: OP I N I O N

THE FLAREFRIDAY, FEBRUARY 6, 2015 7PAGE

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. (SS�WLVWSL�OVSKPUN�LKP[VYPHS�Z[HɈ�WVZP[PVUZ�HYL�2PSNVYL�*VSSLNL�QV\YUHSPZT�Z[\KLU[Z��*VTTLU[Z�HUK�

]PL^Z�L_WYLZZLK�PU�;/,�-3(9,�YLÅLJ[�[OL�[OV\NO[Z�VM�[OL�PUKP]PK\HS�^YP[LYZ��HUK�KV�UV[�ULJLZZHYPS`�YLÅLJ[�[OL�ILSPLMZ�VY�VWPUPVUZ�VM�V[OLY�Z[\KLU[Z��Z[HɈ�TLTILYZ��MHJ\S[`�TLTILYZ��HKTPUPZ[YH[P]L�VɉJLYZ�or the Board of Trustees.

THE FLARE welcomes any letter to the editor and encourages all readers to use this as a sounding board to express thoughts and opinions on current campus-related topics. We also welcome news or feature ideas. Due to space limitations, letters should be as concise as possible and may still be edited for space. Letters must be signed and include an address and telephone number so that we can verify their authenticity. Letters should be delivered to the newsroom in Communications-Automotive Building, Room �����THPSLK�[V�;OL�-SHYL�������)YVHK^H �̀�2PSNVYL�;?�������VY�LTHPSLK�[V!�RJFÅHYL'`HOVV�JVT

LETTERS

DISCLAIMER

The FlareADVERTISING MANAGERDavid McCartySTAFF WRITERSElijah Banks, Max Cervantes, Julianna Kendall and Nick ShelleyPHOTOGRAPHERSMichael Brown, Rain Cohn, Jessica Easley, E’Lexus Hodge, Sara Holmes, ;PɈHU`�1VOUZVU��1VU�5PL[V��;PUH�Walls, Kaelie Wike and Maria Zapata

VOL. 78, NO.13 Q�Friday, February 6, 2015 Copyright 2015, The Flare. All rights reserved.

EXECUTIVE EDITORKathryn AgeeMANAGING EDITORVictoria WhitwellFEATURES EDITORLeah BryceCOPY EDITORDustin TaylorOPINION EDITORJordan Baird

SPORTS EDITORDevin Brooks

ASSISTANTSPORTS EDITORRichard NguyenDESIGN EDITORTory Van Blarcum

ENTERTAINMENT EDITORHunter Lohr

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LAB MANAGERJamie Maldonado

PHOTO ADVISERO. Rufus Lovett

ADVISERRachel Stallard

Phot

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by J

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Jadyn BatehelomPrescott, Ariz. freshman

Brooke McNattBrownsville, Tenn. freshman

Chelsie GloverLongview freshman

Jimmie HughesFort Worth freshman

“Although I am often reluctant to trust things I hear through the media, I would feel slightly betrayed not knowing what is going on, as if someone were keeping secrets from us.”

“Honestly, I would feel betrayed. We cover every story from every country and for the world to not respond to our disaster, it would be inconsiderate.”

“I would be upset.”

“I would be mad, if they can respond and talk about everything else they can respond and let us know when our lives are in danger.”

YOUR VIEW How would you feel if America was attacked and the world’s media didn’t respond?

In November 2014, KC came under fire when a college employee said there was asbestos on the college campus, and that it has been for years. We

want to have all the correct information before reporting on the status of asbestos on the campus.

There have been statements of unethical actions from those involved and the way

the story has been handled in the media. Since the story involves KC, we want to make sure the school and the actions of those involved are represented as accurately as possible. We want to make sure students are kept aware of something as important as their health and safety.

This event has hurt KC’s public image on both sides. If there is a health risk

from being on campus, KC should let the students know and try and handle the fallout as well as possible. If there is no health risk, then the Longview-News Journal’s initial report of asbestos will have seriously hurt KC’s public image for no reason.

KC had an Environmental Protection Agency visit in October. Some board

members were unsatisfied with the results of the visit and wanted further tests done to ensure the safety of everyone on campus. Within the last few months, tests have been conducted on buildings that were said to have had asbestos. The results of these tests have not currently been announced. As soon as the results come in, we will report what was found.

Jessica Easley / THE FLARE

Tragedy should not be treated as disposable entertainment

It’s all

aboutU.S.

not

S PO T L I G H TTHE FLARE

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 6, 20158PAGE

CC advocates speak outFROM PAGE 1

your life, you’re improving the

lives of those around you.”

He challenged instructors

and leaders to “do more. Keep

looking for ways to improve.

Texas as a whole can only see

their dreams when Texans make

them a reality.” He ended his

speech with “May God bless you

and the great state of Texas.”

The final speaker was Joel

Mason of Collin College.

Mason is the first student in

Collin’s history to serve as the

Texas Junior College Student

Government Association

president.

He began his speech by asking

everyone to upload pictures and

articles on social media with the

hashtags #BetterBeginsHere,

#txlege, and #CCDay2015.

“I strongly encourage you to

speak to your representatives

about the five point plan,” he

said. “Think about why you’re

here today. We’re empowering

you so we have the ability to

make real, positive changes.

Make your college a better place.

Let your voice be heard.”

After the rally ended, group

photos were taken of the

attendees. Everyone then headed

into the Capitol building to take

tours and sit in on Senate and

House meetings.

The students took photos with

the Sweetwater Jaycees, a group

of rattlesnake wranglers. The

snakes were on display outside

on the Capitol Rotunda. This is

the eighth year Representative

Susan King of District 71 has

brought “a bit of West Texas” to

the Capitol.

KC attendees briefly met

Senator Kevin Eltife, who has

more community colleges in his

district than any other Texas

senator. Cheryl Vanek, Eltife’s

chief of staff, said “Eltife really

appreciates you coming. The

future of the community college

is very important to him.”

They also met with David

Simpson of District 7, where

Kilgore is located. Simpson

lives in Longview. He personally

greeted everyone in the group

and gave them his business card,

telling them to email him and

visit his website. “I’m so glad to

see you here and interested,” he

said.

Holda talked to Simpson on

how we are working to improve

the transferability of college

credits, and standardizing math

credits. They then talked about

how House Bill 5 would affect the

future of community college.

The KC students took turns

telling Simpson about their

community college experiences

and how it has affected their

lives in positive ways. Simpson

talked about the importance

of “not being robots, not being

slaves, but being free and

responsible.” He addressed

his sometimes unconventional

voting by joking “I’m an equal

opportunity offender.” He ended

the meeting by saying “the best

way to advance freedom is to

understand and work with each

other responsibly.”

As the group prepared to leave

the Capitol, photographers

were spotted near the doors

of the Rotunda. They were

gathered around Texas Gov.

Greg Abbott, who was there

taking photographs with the

Sweetwater Jaycees. Afterwards,

Abbott greeted Holda and the KC

students and took photographs

with them.

Community College Day

2015 was an informative

and important event that let

students experience how Texas

government works first hand.

Getting to talk to legislators and

representatives at the Capitol let

students know that their voices

were being heard by those who

have the power to enforce real

change in community colleges.

For more on the five-point plan,

visit www.texastrustees.org.

Kathryn Agee / THE FLARE

Texas Gov. Greg Abbott speaks to Rattlesnake wranglers. Abbott was at the Capitol to meet with the Sweetwater Jaycees, who hold the annual Rattlesnake Roundup.

From top left: Joel Mason,

President of the Texas

Junior College Student

Government Association;

Lydia Santibanez,

Community College

Association of Texas

Trustees Chair; Richard

Rhodes, President of

Austin Community College;

Larry Taylor, Senator and

Representative of District

11; Jimmie Don Ayock,

Representative of District

54; speak at Community

College Day 2015 at The

Texas Capitol.

“The best way to advance freedom is to understand and work with each other responsibly.”

– Rep. David Simpson, District 7