The Eagle Northeast Texas Community College
Volume 34, Issue 7
Friday, March 24, 2017
ntcceagleonline.com
Task force working on new Northeast campus carry policy By Daniel Yanez Editor-in-Chief
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| daniel yanez
Jessica Soc, Stephania Juarez and Maria Ramirez, members of the Amigos Unidos and Student Success organizations, get ready to serve the crowd during The Eagle’s fundraising barbecue cook off.
In June 2015 Governor Greg Abbott signed into law Texas Senate Bill 11. Also know as the “Campus Carry” law, the bill authorizes the carrying of concealed handguns by license holders on college campuses across the state. The law has been in effect since August 2016 for four-year colleges and universities, but has now made its way to the doors of smaller community campuses and will become active Aug. 1, 2017. While NTCC does not have a full or disclosed policy yet, the
college has assigned a task force committee to research SB 11 as well as adhering policies from other colleges and universities. The law has in part sparked debates and controversy across the state regarding concerns for safety and the rights of others. “Our committee is reviewing a number of policies from universities across the state,” said Northeast President Brad Johnson. “The difference in approach from one university to the next can be very dramatic. The truth is that every college is in its own different situation.” The law requires that See Law pg. 2
Campus security encourages safety precautions By Kenzie Messer Managing Editor
A recent email from Security Director Russell Taylor to Northeast students, faculty and staff was a stark reminder for the entire campus community that security and safety issues need to be foremost on everyone’s mind. In the email, Taylor mentioned the lack of lighting in some areas due to the continued construction and the importance of being cautious in campus parking lots, especially during evening hours. During an interview, Taylor would not say if the email was prompted by a particular incident, but his correspondence did say, “If you see anyone lingering around in the parking lot that does not seem to “belong” or making you or others “uncomfortable” call security immediately.”
In the email he also encouraged use of what he called “the buddy system.” “When I was in basic training we were required to use the buddy system, so this is not a “Chicken Way,” Taylor wrote. “It is a very good system to have two people together when traveling in and out of parking lots etc. Especially now during renovations and much of the campus is darker than usual.” Sufficient outdoor lighting has been somewhat of an issue since construction began on the Northeast campus more than a year ago. WRL Superintendent Kelly Norris and Northeast Plant Services Director Tom Ramler both said that construction crews are currently working to get the lights back up across the campus. See Security pg. 2
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| daniel yanez
Much of the lighting removed during construction has been restored during the past few weeks. The campus does, however, still have some areas where lack of lighting is an issue.
Progress continues on numerous projects By Nubia Sanchez Staff Writer
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| daniel yanez
Francisco Garcia of J.E. Masonry in Dallas lays bricks on the wall in the new circle. The U.S., Texas and Northeast flagpoles will be placed in the new area.
For Northeast students, faculty and staff adjusting to the ongoing construction projects is like adjusting to the seasons here in Texas, never knowing what to expect. As the construction frenzy nears the end of the 18-month project, there are still some big moves for students to expect. One of those will be the relocation of the Northeast College Store to the Student Union Building. WRL Superintendent Kelly Norris said the move should take place in mid April. When the new store opens, the rest of the dining area in the SUB will open as well. The former location of the College Store will be converted into a computer lab. Norris said the construction of the new store has slowed some due to the heavy demolition that was required. He said there were concrete cinderblock walls and old tile that had to be removed from the area. Although there have been some obstacles in the way for the construction crews, Norris said, “We’re working around it, but we’re on track.” As the college store packs up and prepares to move, students should also prepare for some added elements to the bookstore. Bookstore Director Naomi Taylor said that the new layout of the store should be more functional for students and employees.
She said the store would be divided into different shopping sections, which will make it more convenient for shoppers. “It will be better organized with new displays and nice walking spaces, it is not as condensed,” Taylor said. ¨This will make it easier for customers to find items that they may be shopping for.¨ Taylor said she is looking forward to the change in location and ambiance as well as the bookstores´ expanded options and services. The SUB, where renovation efforts have also been taking place, is a hub for student life. Taylor said the traffic in the area would bring about a new feeling to the bookstore. “It is going to be nice to be in that atmosphere and it will be convenient for students and everyone,” said Taylor. Northeast college student Iliana Gonzalez said it would be a great idea for the College Store to be located in the SUB. “It will be a lot more useful and things will move faster and be essential and it would not be as crowded,” Gonzalez said. The grand opening for the bookstore is set for May 1. As the grand opening approaches, the store will feature a t-shirt design contest for students. The contest will give students the opportunity to enter a design to be featured on store shelves. The winner will receive a free shirt for themselves and See Construction pg. 2
Alpha Mu Chi sweep awards
By Ryan Rose-Mendoza Staff Writer
The Northeast Alpha Mu Chi chapter of Phi Theta Kappa returned from the Texas Regional Convention with awards in nearly every category they entered. “This is the second biggest convention for Phi Theta Kappa in our state,” Dylan McConnell, chapter vice president, said. “And, to see all our hard work pay off in this way was such a wonderful way to start wrapping up our year.” The chapter’s top award winning Honors In Action project focused on the theme
of Peace and War. Alpha Mu Chi decided their service project for the year would be to hold an event dubbed “The New Normal.” The project set out as a way to help veteran’s settle back into their daily lives after returning from combat. Throughout the year, the team came up with activities to relieve stress, sent Christmas cards to veterans on campus, and connected veteran students with scholarships and resources they might not know of otherwise. In November, Alpha Mu Chi offered an evening of calming activities that was not only open to veterans,
but also to their families as well as students and anyone else interested in attending the event. The keynote speaker for the evening was Professor Sony Tiwari who gave an interactive speech on the benefits of music therapy. Booths included calming hand and foot massages, tai chi, manicures and pedicures, aroma therapy and the organization also offered a dinner buffet of comfort foods. The chapter’s College Project is an undertaking designed to better the college in some way. This year the students set out to create a See PTK pg. 2
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| daniel yanez
The flags of Argentina, Italy, the United States, Texas and Venezuela fly at Eagle field during a recent game. The flags represent the home countries of the softball players.
Page 2
The Eagle
March 24, 2017
Northeast Texas Community College
News
Law to begin in fall semester Cont. from pg. 1
colleges and universities adopt rules and provisions to extend the rights of concealed handgun license holders on campus in addressing the safety and security of the campus community. While the college may not generally prohibit license holders from carrying concealed weapons on the campus, it will be allowed to designate certain areas on campus where carrying is prohibited. “We have to protect everybody’s rights according to law,” said Bob Hedges, Committee Chair and Professor of Criminal Justice. “We have to hit a balance between protecting individual’s rights and ensuring safety for everybody on campus.” SB 11 also allows the college to enact reasonable rules and regulations regarding carrying CHL holders on campus. Some of those safety considerations may include the storage of handguns in dormitories or other residential facilities. After consulting with students, faculty and staff, the college may decide on these regulations based on the distinctive nature of the student population and campus environment. Hedges said the main concern at the moment is classroom safety. According to Hedges and national reports, there have only been three incidents nationwide in which the misfire of a handgun was reported. Hedges said these incidents could lead to other potential classroom dangers. In labs where hazardous contents may become exposed to gunfire, the contents become potential dangers. While the law allows for CHL holders to carry on campus grounds for the purposes of
safety, colleges and universities are eligible to designate restricted locations. The locations have been left to the discretion of the college but are eligible for review and approval by the state. For Northeast, those zones may include certain classrooms and different areas of public venue such as sporting events. “Different people have different concerns. The law is structured in such a manner that the concerns we may have are settled by the law,” said Johnson. “The peculiarity about where we find ourselves, in east Texas, is people have carried guns ever since this area was settled all the way until now. This is the culture here in east Texas. The law is very consistent with the general attitude of our community.” Johnson said the risk of potential accidents is a concern for the campus community. In an environment where numbers of people gather, live together and spend large amounts of time together, the risk factor often increases. “The risk of accidents may increase, that’s a concern to me,” said Johnson. “Good, well intentioned people make mistakes. It’s a bit of a worry if there’s an increase in a significant amount of guns.” Hedges said it would be important for students to become aware of the policy once it is in place and to educate themselves on HB 11. Under HB 11 campus carry is allowed for CHL holders only. Qualified law enforcement officers or those who are otherwise authorized to carry a concealed handgun in the State of Texas are also permitted to do so. Open carry on campus is prohibited. For someone to obtain a concealed license they must first go through background testing and a training course.
Construction ongoing across campus Cont. from pg. 1 two additional shirts. The deadline for submitting the t-shirts designs is March 31. Taylor said she hopes to have the contest either each semester or each school year. Construction is also moving forward in the library as that area prepares to move into phase 3 of the Learning Resource Center project. The John Biggers art display room is currently under construction. The room will house the Biggers’ 1950s African American education mural as well as several pieces of artwork by the famous artist. Once the College Store makes its move to the SUB, construction of a computer lab will begin in that space of the building. The circle in the front of the library is also getting a face lift. A brick wall is being constructed in front of the area where the flagpoles will be displayed. The construction projects across campus are expected to continue throughout the spring semester.
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PTK District III Vice President Olivia Wynn presents Alpha Mu Chi’s Honors in Action and College Project Award to Northeast PTK officers Melody Mott and Kassy Martinez.
PTK wins 20 awards at regionals Cont. from pg. 1
universal charging station located in the Humanities building. This is the first time the chapter has won top awards for both Honors In Action and College Project. “When I heard them call our name I was blown away,” McConnell said. “We couldn’t help but cry because this entire year has been leading up to that moment and to see the faces of the chapter members and hear the cheers across the room was unforgettable.” “I could not be any prouder of how well this team has worked together to be successful this year,” Dr. Melissa Fulgham said. “They started the year understanding that it was not about the awards and planned to focus their projects on helping others. They have devoted so much time and dedication to their projects
this year, and I am beyond happy to see how their hard work has paid off.” Along with the regular awards, Alpha Mu Chi also ran for a Regional Office position. The group campaigns as a whole chapter to fill the spot of Regional Officer. McConnell said receiving a Regional Office chapter position is a huge duty and a sign of respect. The entire campaign consists of two days of hard campaigning, a skit explaining why their chapter should be the pick and a speech in front of an audience. Regional wards received by Alpha Mu Chi include: Texas Top Chapter, Honors in Action Award of Distinction, College Project Award of Merit, Five Star Chapter, Honors in Action and College Project participation award, Texas
Regional Hall of Honor for Outstanding Officers (Melody Mott), Texas Regional Hall of Honor for Outstanding Members (Tim Allen), Texas Regional Hall of Honor for Outstanding Alumni (Isaac Burris), Continued Excellence Award for Advisors (Melissa Fulgham), District III Hall of Honor (Ryan RoseMendoza, Dylan McConnell, Melody Mott, Elizabeth Esquitan, Erick Fernandez, Tim Allen, Kassy Martinez), Five Star Competitive Edge Members (Melody Mott, Dylan McConnell), Friend of Texas Award (Delbra Anthony), and the District III Vice-Presidential Position. Alpha Mu Chi is Northeast Texas Community College’s chapter of the international Honors Society Phi Theta Kappa, a society that spreads all across the United States as well as other counties.
Lighting back on in most areas Cont. from pg. 1
staff photo|daniel yanez
A construction worker removes tile flooring from the former SUB kitchen where the College Store will relocate in a few weeks. The demolition is part of the project that is being done to make way for the new store location.
Northeast Texas field center wins SBDC of the Year Award Special to The Eagle The North Texas SBDC proudly announces the Northeast Texas Small Business Development Center (SBDC) in Mount Pleasant, as the selected field center for the honor of being named the 2017 SBDC of the Year for the North Texas SBDC Network. This award honors a Small Business Development Center (SBDC) Service Center for excellence in providing value to small businesses from diverse backgrounds and advancing program delivery and management through innovation. The North Texas SBDC Network serves forty-nine counties in the Northeast Texas and hosts 13 field centers to provide services to small businesses to foster economic development. The Northeast Texas SBDC is hosted by Northeast Texas Community College (NTCC) in Mount Pleasant, Texas. We would like to thank Northeast Texas Community College’s President, Dr. Brad Johnson and Associate Vice President for Workforce Development, Dr. Kevin Rose for their leadership and longstanding support of the SBDC program. The Northeast Texas SBDC serves Bowie, Camp Cass, Franklin, Morris and Titus Counties under the leadership of Director, Tim Wilson. This SBDC has provided outstanding services to a region that is primarily rural. Their work provides top quality business consulting and training which has been a key to improving economic factors in Texas. Director Wilson has been recognized for his
leadership and the manner in which he and his team serves the small business community. Northeast Texas SBDC surpassed all SBA and NTSBDC performance expectations to include long-term counseling clients, new businesses started, capital infusion and job creation. All SBDC advisors surpassed the minimum counseling hour standards thereby resulting in increased client satisfaction and service delivery to clients. The Northeast Texas SBDC prides itself on building small businesses, including start-ups by creating and implementing innovative programs and events to meet the needs of small businesses in their local communities. Northeast Texas SBDC’s staff actively participates in network-wide initiatives with the NTSBDC state office to effectively contribute to the growth of the internal network and optimize operational efficiency. The teams serves as champions on behalf of small businesses and are community advocates for advancing the opportunities for entrepreneurial development. Tim and his team are recognized as champions for SBA products and services including effective amplification of the SBA mission and priorities and strong education efforts about the SBA and its programs to small businesses. The Northeast Texas SBDC will be honored during National Small Business Week, May 1-5, 2017, specifically on May 4, 2017 during SBA’s Small Business Recognition Program in Arlington, Texas.
A lot of the lights in areas that had been without outdoor lighting were replaced during spring break. “During the construction project, there have been times when the exterior lighting was not all working,” Ramler said. “That was necessary to upgrade the lighting. There are more lights on today then there were a month ago. We are continuing to aggressively pursue getting them all back on.” Norris said lights are working again throughout the courtyard and around the UHS building. Wall pack lights have also been added to the Whatley Center and on the sides of some of the buildings to offer additional lighting along walkways. Norris said the college would possibly add some extra lighting in the future as needs arise. Ramler said the plan is to eventually upgrade the lighting in the parking lots. “There is money in the project for additional parking lot lighting,” Ramler said. “All those pole lights that run from the east side of the UHS parking lot and down that alley way between Math/Science and Humanities are working, and there are three brand new wall lights that are all working, so that area has already been upgraded very substantially, and I would say it’s a very safe walkway.” Ramler said even with the replacement of most of the outdoor lighting on campus, people should still pay attention to Taylor’s safety advice. “During this time, Russell has made some good suggestions,” Ramler said. “If you look at any of our statistics, this is a very safe campus, but that doesn’t mean that people shouldn’t be prudent. We want people to be aware of their surroundings, to take appropriate precautions here or anywhere else, so they don’t put themselves in a precarious position.”
Along with the campus wide email Taylor sent, instructors also take the responsibility of teaching their students certain safety precautions to take while walking out of the buildings after their night classes. “As an instructor, we’re responsible for teaching our students good safety habits, especially if they are on campus late at night,” EMS Director Debra Grantham said. “We teach the young men to be gentlemen. If they see a young lady being out there on their own, to escort them out there, and to just keep their eyes open and keep themselves aware of what’s around them. If you suspect anybody is being suspicious, move back in the building and call security.” Grantham said thinking ahead and taking precautions is something that everyone on campus should do regularly. “I’m not overly concerned about the darkness,” Grantham said. “There is safety in the lit areas, but again people have to take a little bit of planning on their own. It’s a matter of just being prepared and being aware of your surroundings.” Ramler said based on the number of incidents that have happened on the Northeast campus, it is a relatively safe campus. He said, however, that students should still take safeguards and be aware of their surroundings when walking on campus in the dark. “Of all the places that I’ve worked, this is the safest campus I’ve worked on,” Ramler said. “The lighting on campus has not been as consistent as we would like it, but having said that, WRL, the contractor, has been working closely with plant services and with Tim Johnston to bring the lighting back up to our expectations as soon as possible. We do our part, but even when the campus is 100 percent lit, they still need to be aware of their surroundings.”
March 24, 2017
The Eagle
Page 3
Northeast Texas Community College
Feature
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Above, Dr. DeLisi calms a young Ariana as he injects medicine into her port-a-cath. Right, Today Ariana, far right, is cancer free and enjoys spending quality time with her 11 younger siblings.
Life is good for former cancer patient By Kenzie Messer Managing Editor Northeast Texas Community College student Ariana DeLisi is the oldest child of the “DeLisi Dozen.” She now has the responsibility of helping take care of 11 younger siblings, but at the young age of two, she had the responsibility of overcoming her battle with Acute Lymphocytic Leukemia (ALL), a type of cancer that affects the white blood count. “I don’t remember a lot of it,” Ariana said. “A lot of it is my parent’s remembering, so it’s second hand, but it’s really weird to think about. Sometimes, I can’t even believe it was actually me.” A small lymph node appeared on the side of Ariana’s neck. Her father, Dr. Craig DeLisi, M.D., a Mount Pleasant physician, was just starting his residency, so he knew that it was very common for young children to get small lymph nodes. Her parents thought it would go away after a few days. “When I pulled up to the driveway, my wife was holding her,” DeLisi said. “Before getting out of the
car, I could see that it was swollen enough that it was distorting her neck a little, so I said, ‘Let’s get her in to see her doctor.’” Ariana went to see her doctor on a Friday, and everything looked fine, but since she had the swollen lymph node, the doctors ordered a blood test. That weekend DeLisi was on call. As he was finishing his rounds that morning another resident he was working with received a phone call from the lab with a “panic” value on a patient. DeLisi suddenly learned that the patient his colleague was referring to was his daughter, he found that he could hardly keep going. When it came time for him to see another patient, DeLisi was too emotional to do so. He tried to explain to another resident what was going on, but as he heard the words that his child had cancer spoken out loud, he began to weep. Those were the first tears he shed for Ariana. “The doctor I was working with was the senior resident,” DeLisi said. “He got a phone call from our clinic with a panicked lab value on a patient, and that patient was Ariana.
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When he told me all of her numbers, I knew at that moment that she had either leukemia or lymphoma, so I went home and woke my wife up and told her that we needed to go to the hospital.” The DeLisi’s were transferred to a children’s hospital where they did a biopsy on her bone marrow. When the results came back, it was confirmed that Ariana had ALL, and suddenly life for the DeLisi family seemed like it was spiraling down. “It was a scary, terrible feeling,” DeLisi said. “When it’s happening, it just feels like a bad dream. It doesn’t feel real. It’s the worse feeling as a parent.” Since Ariana’s platelets were critically low, she was admitted into St. Francis at Tulsa to receive platelets. There was a possibility she could have bled to death if she had fallen and hurt herself. “I remember when she was in the hospital that first day, we were getting the diagnosis and the plan,” DeLisi said. “I remember looking out the window and seeing people leaving the hospital and cars driving by and people’s life’s just doing
normal stuff and feeling like the world was supposed to stop, but it didn’t.” Because Ariana was going through chemotherapy treatment, her immune system was suppressed. She had to wear a mask to protect herself. One day they were at a mall and someone walked up to the DeLisi family and asked why Ariana was wearing a mask. As DeLisi started to answer the question, he began to get choked up a bit and found it difficult to speak. “We’ve been through the hard part,” DeLisi said. “I think the reason is because when you go through something traumatic in the beginning stage, you’re doing more than you’re feeling. I think that God’s grace is very sustaining, but then as that becomes longer term, there’s a point when you do start to feel it more.” DeLisi knew what it was like to not only be a patient, but to be the parent of a patient. Through the experience, he built a passion for his patients that some doctors don’t get the opportunity to build because he had walked in their shoes.
“I was still in such an early stage in my training that there was more head knowledge than actually practice knowledge and wisdom,” DeLisi said. “Sometimes I probably created more fear because I would be thinking about things that some people would never be thinking about. It absolutely affected how I practiced because we were patients, so going through that and being on the other side of the bed completely changed how I would take care of patients.” Now that Ariana has been cancer free for many years, her parents, church family, and their family of friends have influenced her to help others through missionary work. She especially wants to reach out to women who were abused through the crime of trafficking. Her goal is to finish her education and go out into the world and make a difference for those less fortunate. “At some point I want to travel somewhere and help someone,” Ariana said. “I’ve always just wanted to do something helpful. I just like helping people. They just need so much more. They don’t even have the basics that we have.”
Coming full circle to change students’ lives By Kenzie Messer Managing Editor
and students at Northeast that he was asked to be the student response speaker at his graduation. Four years ago, Jimmy Smith stood on the “I was shocked,” Smith said. “I was Whatley stage delivering the student response humbled of course. Everyone just thought speech to his fellow Northeast graduates. highly of me which made me feel like maybe At that time, Smith didn’t realize that I got something going for myself.” the positive impact the college had on his Since Smith was already giving the student life would eventually bring him back to the response and known to be an excellent vocalist campus to work with other students as the by several people and his involvement with new NTCC Recruitment Specialist. the choir, they also suggested he should “I wanted to be a part of something that perform that night as well. pushed me to the point where I knew I could Smith sang “I believe I can Fly” by R. Kelly. be successful,” Smith said. “When I first got He chose that song because he believed that it out of high school, I thought I was mediocre. was a song that symbolized the students who I wasn’t built to be mediocre, that’s just the were getting ready to fly. part I played. I did just enough in school to “I think the metaphor of the eagle of this get by.” college flying made me ready to fly,” Smith Director of Student Activities Rico Willis said. “It just definitely put everybody, even encouraged Smith to become involved in a my fellow classmates in the mind set of ‘this variety of activities and different organizations is the point where you have to believe in on campus. yourself and fly.’ I think that song was just Smith wasn’t entirely sure about becoming so suiting for this college and that occasion involved with organizations, but he thought because I think when you get ready to leave he would at least attempt to here, you should be try something new. ready to fly.” “It started out like, ‘I’ll wanted to be a part Originally, Smith was try it,’” Smith said. “Rico interested in a job that continuously spoke to me of something that was in the Admissions about the impact I could pushed me to the point Department, but Willis make. That I would be approached Smith and around people who were like where I knew I could be told him about the minded, it made me want to successful.” recruitment specialist be a part of the cause.” position that was ~Jimmy Smith He went on to work with available. Willis said Willis through different he believed that Smith organizations on campus. possessed the qualities to be an adviser/ Smith served as a part of enactus, as a recruiter. student ambassador, the parliamentarian for Northeast Director of Admissions and the Student Government Association, and as Recruiting Melissa Harrison said Smith’s president of Brother to Brother. feelings for the college are evident in the “I recognized that Jimmy was full of emotion and dedication for his job. potential and capable of doing great things in “As a member of this community he has a life,” Willis said. “Jimmy fostered a positive lot of pride from when he took classes here,” image of our campus to the community said Harrison, “he has so much energy and and potential students. He built a stand-up passion for Northeast because he was a former reputation for giving back to the campus student.” It puts him in a good position to be a community through sharing knowledge and recruiter and help bring other students to the positivity. The positions that Jimmy held school.” at NTCC as a student helped mold him to Smith said he hopes to help students become the man he is today.” become inspired in the same way that Smith made such an impact on the faculty Northeast inspired him.
“I
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| stephanie garcia
Smith speaks with Chapel Hill students and encourages them take the Texas Success Initiative (TSI) test and further their education with a college degree. “When I got out here, I was so involved,” said Smith, “I took so many course hours that it just got to the point where I said, ‘Man, this college really had an impact on me. I thought that maybe if I were a part of the faculty, then I could have the same chance to make that same impact on students.” While waiting for “the call” Smith anxiously anticipated the response. However, he breathed a sigh of relief when he learned he got that he had gotten the job at his alma mater. Smith said the time between the interview and the phone call felt like a month but was only like a week. “I was excited,” Smith said. “It felt like a weight had been lifted because I was nervous. This could be the start of something great.”
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Smith was the student response speaker at his NTCC graduation ceremony in 2013.
Page 4
The Eagle
March 24, 2017
Northeast Texas Community College
Opinion
Eagle’s Eye: What is your personal credo?
“Work hard until the difficult becomes easy. Then the easy will become routine.” - Jhosmel Rodriquez
“To keep on going, find your drive.” - Alex Plunkett
“How we spend our days is how we spend our lives” - Alyse Hooks
“Enjoying looking at the smiles of students when they walk into the cafeteria” - Anny Serna
“Smiling for others” - Sherry De La Cruz-Cason
The best laid plans... never seem to work out By Daniel Yanez Editor-in-Chief
Diary of the uninformed By Andrew McClain Staff Writer
“Did you hear the news?” That’s a question myself and likely 80 percent of the millennial generation often hear. It and its cousin, “Did you hear about such and such a person, thing, or event?” can often be met with a resounding, “No, I did not.” Whether it’s a meteorological, social or especially political event, chances are if it didn’t impact or affect our immediate dayto-day lives, most of us whippersnappers will only find out about such events through the people who tend to ask those above questions. Oh, and if it’s trending on Facebook, of course. My name is Andrew McClain, and I’m uninformed. And from what I’ve seen lately, I don’t seem to be in the minority these days. A new generation is rising up, and we’ve all come out of our mothers holding a Samsung Galaxy in one hand and a Nintendo Switch in the other. “So what happened?” I hear you ask. “Where have the days gone when kids would grow up playing outside, chasing each other through the mud and the rain and the snow in a rousing game of tag?” I was actually among the few who once used to live that kind of life, so who better than me to take a stab at an answer? “Someone informed,” you say? Get out of here with that nonsense; this is my article. Anyway, I mentioned
before that you’d be hard pressed these days to find any young person who didn’t have A) a smartphone and B) some kind of video game console. And, I think that’s where a majority of our issues today stem from. Now before you get on your soapbox and start shouting about how you were right that smartphones and video games will destroy us all, allow me to say that inherently, there’s nothing wrong with video game entertainment or having access to just about everything in the palms of our hands. These things at their core have enabled artists to express themselves in new ways, developed a new form of entertainment for the common man and opened the floodgates of information to anyone who knows how to Google. For example, I changed the alternator on my parents’ car last year, and seeing as how no one around was able to walk me through the process, I relied on my smartphone and the power of Google to find an online step-by-step guide on how to perform the delicate process. The end result, I must say, was something I was truly proud of. So see, these devices themselves aren’t inherently bad; the thing, I believe, that’s hurting this generation, is how we use them. With the advent of powerful portable technologies, we have 24hour access to just about any form of entertainment, no matter where we are or what
cartoon by andrew mcclain
McClain we’re doing. Whether we’re in the middle of a college lecture or sitting on the toilet at home, we can easily pull out a smartphone, tablet or portable game system and play a few rounds of the latest casual game craze. We have all this unlimited access to so many ways of killing time, and the problem is we don’t know when to stop. Whether it’s one more level or one more YouTube video or one more scroll through the Twitter highlights, we act like druggies with an addiction and can never seem to get enough. And what’s the end result? Unless everyone we know is shouting about it or it comes up on our Twitter feed, we have next to no idea what the rest of the world is up to, and I believe that it’s hurting us in the long run. So it’s for that very reason that today, I swear to show more self-control when it comes to these distractions. I’m going to put down my smartphone and actually take a good, hard look at the world around me. My name is Andrew McClain, and I will no longer be uninformed. I’ll put an end to this vicious cycle and for once, ask for myself, “Whats going on in the world today?” I will rise above the rest and take my place among the informed… right after I watch this YouTube video.
The Eagle Eagle Adviser Mandy Smith Editor-in-Chief Daniel Yanez
Managing Editor Kenzie Messer
Staff Writers Iesha Fluellen, Brianna Stacks, Kieran Martin, Andrew McClain, Ryan Mendoza, Nubia Sanchez, Yami Zuniga, Na’Chyna Shardai Rogers, Vanessa Navarro and Stephanie Garcia The opinions expressed do not necessarily represent the opinions of the faculty advisor or the administration of the college. Questions? Comments? E-mail our adviser Mandy Smith at msmith@ntcc.edu or visit our website at www.facebook.com/thentcceagle.
This week as many of my staff writers paraded around the Northeast campus interviewing students on their personal credo I sat and wondered about my own. Unlike many journalist I´m quite a laid back individual. Many times you can find me wandering off in space, a freethinker if you please. As I look back at my time spent at NTCC many of my memories are indeed rooted in the Journalism Room, or as many of my peers refer to it, the eagle nest. I also realize that the semester is slowly coming to a draw. As many of us prepare for our next step in our educational journey I like to reflect back on my own. Since the beginning of last semester I have been planning my transfer move to Texas A&M University-Commerce , but just when you think you have everything lined out on blueprint and ink, life often pulls a wild card that can send you back to the drawing board. Truth is, life doesn’t slow down. We do. One of my all-time favorite quotes comes from the Of Mice and Men novel by John Steinbeck. In a translated English version the phrase reads, “the best-laid plans of mice and men often go awry.” Adapted from Robert Burns’ To a Mouse poem from which Steinbeck got the idea for the title of his book, the quote depicts our constant struggles.
No matter how hard we try to plan out a project or event, anything for that matter, something will always go wrong. Early this month I was involved in a slipand-slide car accident that sent me and my hard earned ´01 Mustang into a ditch. Fortunately, I was able to walk away from that incident without a hospital bill. My car, on the other hand, was not as fortunate. Over spring break I didn’t partake in the beachgoerś party extravaganza but instead found myself working overtime at my nine to five trying to figure out how to buy my next car without having to sell my kidneys on the internet black market. Either way, here I am a couple thousand in the hole, yet happily trudging on. As many of us try to figure out the meaning to life or our purpose in life it has become apparent to me that we should stop making it more difficult than it actually is. While we should all have an idea or concept of what to strive for in life we shouldn’t set plans in stone. Instead of directing our plans in straightforward paths we need to leave some room for mistakes and even some space for uncertainty. It’s simply impossible to have everything laid out without error. But that’s the beauty of life, we are, by design, supposed to make mistakes. However, many times we limit ourselves by only sticking to what we are sure of. We like to play it safe, but, there’s no chance unless you take one.
Confessions of a student worker
FERPA says, “I’m an adult” By Stephanie Garcia Staff Writer One issue that we deal with a lot in the financial aid office is parents or grandparents calling to ask about a student’s account. The problem we run into many times is that the student does not have a FERPA on file. But wait, what is a FERPA? Basically, it’s a paper that the student has to sign in order for the college to release any information about a student’s account. FERPA stands for the Federal Educational Rights and Privacy Act. “It’s a federal law so we have to follow it,” Northeast Registrar Betsy Gooding said. You may be asking, “What does this have to do with anything?” Well, while on the job in the business office, student workers answer the phone and return phone calls. If a parent or grandparent calls requesting information, the first thing we have to do is check to see if we have a FERPA on file for the student. Sometimes we do, but a lot of the times we don’t. And, when we tell a parent or grandparent calling that we do not
Garcia have the document and can’t release the information they are asking for, they get pretty upset. That is completely understandable. Most people are used to being able to go to their child’s high school and request things like grades, attendance and other information. Once a student is in college, however, we must have written consent from the student to release that type of information. If students want to let their parents, grandparents or guardians have information and be able to handle their financial aid concerns and things of that sort, then they must fill out a FERPA and tell us to whom the information can be released. I can tell you, it is not a fun experience when
you tell a parent that they cannot have information about their child. It is not pleasant to be yelled at and cursed at when you are just doing your job and following the law. It happens a lot more often than one would think. It usually ends with an angry adult and a frustrated worker. This is not just for the financial aid office; it’s for all of the departments. If it involves educational records like transcripts, holds, bills or grades it is covered under FERPA and can’t be released without permission from the student. Director of Admissions/Recruiting Melissa Harrison made a valid point when she said, “It’s not to withhold the information from the parents, but to protect the student from other people.” A piece of advice for all students is that if you want your parents, grandparents, aunts, uncles or whoever to do your stuff at the college for you, fill out a FERPA! You can find it on the main college website. It will save you, your guardians and the workers a lot of time and frustration. Thanks, Financial Aid Student Worker.
March 24, 2017
The Eagle
Northeast Texas Community College
Page 5
News
FCA program brings encouraging message to athletes By Iesha Fluellen Staff Writer Students come from all walks of life, and several different countries, on the Northeast Texas Community College campus. Many of them came from different upbringings as well as having diverse interests and personalities. There is something, however, that they all can relate to - they are all college students. While students often stress over balancing lectures, homework and relationships, at the end of the day, they are all human. The Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA) is a non-denominational sports organization that prides itself on helping students through tough times while simultaneously allowing students to help others. Despite its name, there is no requirement to be an athlete to participate in FCA. Several students who are not athletes regularly attend weekly FCA meetings where they can participate in Bible study, discuss the daily obstacles faced in their everyday lives and discover ways to overcome those adversities. Jesus Garcia, assistant soccer coach at Mount Pleasant High School, travels to the NTCC campus each Monday evening to lead
the FCA Bible study group. Garcia encourages students to come to the FCA meetings and take part in the group’s activities. Garcia and Austin Knight, former NTCC head baseball coach, began leading FCA on the Northeast campus last fall. Although Knight took a coaching position with a major league baseball organization last fall, Garcia has continued to reach out to the Northeast students through the FCA program. Garcia said FCA is a Christ-centered program that offers an encouraging message for all students. “My desire is not just numbers, but rather for people’s lives to be changed through this,” Garcia said. One of the students who often attends FCA is Ruber Medina, a Northeast baseball player. “I think it’s important that we have FCA,” Medina said. “It’s a time we can talk with other people about Christ, but it’s also a time to stop and think about how you’re living your life. It’s also nice to see someone else’s point of view about life.” As FCA continues to grow, Garcia is actively working to create an enjoyable social environment for college students. Meetings take place Monday nights at 8 p.m. in the lobby of the West Residential Hall.
staff photo|daniel yanez
Garcia talks with students during an FCA meeting last fall. The group meets each Monday evening at 8 p.m. in the West Residential Hall.
ESL tutoring now available Greater Tuna comedy show coming to Whatley Center By Na’Chyna Rogers Staff Writer
Tutoring specifically geared toward English Second Language (ESL) students is being offered through the Student Success Program this semester. Northeast Education Instructor Jerry Harris, who has been teaching adult ESL classes for several years, is offering the ESL tutoring services two days a week. “I have admiration for those students who have decided to further their education,” Harris said. “It is important to help students like these to be successful in their studies.” Harris has been teaching ESL at United Methodist Church in Pittsburg for years and said she is excited about bringing the same guidance to the Northeast Texas Community College campus. “We know that creative and academic
writing skills are often difficult for any student to master, but it can be a real struggle for those students trying to communicate in writing in the foreign language of English,” Harris said. Student Success Program Director Erika Garza said the ESL and other Student Success Program tutors are offered as a way to reach out to students who may be having trouble with their coursework. “We hope that faculty will encourage their students to take advantage of this campus resource for any student struggling with English language barriers,” said Garza. Harris offers tutoring in Humanities 112 on Mondays from 12:30 to 3:30 p.m. and Tuesdays from 12:30 to 4:30 p.m. Appointments for other days are also welcome. For more information on ESL tutoring contact Garza at 903-434-8202.
Special to The Eagle
The Whatley Center for the Performing Arts at Northeast Texas Community College will welcome you back to Tuna, Texas when it hosts the hilarious, irreverent comedy Greater Tuna March 28 at 7:30 p.m. Greater Tuna is about Texas’ third smallest town, where the Lion’s club is too liberal and Patsy Cline never dies. The eclectic band of Tuna citizens – men, women, children, and animals alike – are portrayed by only three performers, making this satire on life in rural America both crazy and delightful. “Greater Tuna is one of those classic plays that audiences can never get enough of. We are so pleased to host the new touring production directed by original cast member and creator, Jaston Williams,” Carolyn Franks, Whatley Center Director, said. Called “a good ol’ down-
home laugh-out-loud fest,” by DC Metro Theater Arts, Greater Tuna has enjoyed worldwide success, including long-running engagements both on and Off-Broadway, at the White House in Washington, D.C., on Late Night with David Letterman, and as an HBO special. Three Actors, 20
Characters, 20 million laughs. The NTCC performance will star Ryan H. Bailey, Tim Leavon and Will Mercer. Tickets for the show are $30 for adults and $10 for students 18 and under. The show is sponsored by Drs. Jim and Paula Archer. Tickets may be purchased by calling the Whatley Center Box Office at 903-434-8181.
Last Day to Drop with a W Thursday, April 13
Page 6
The Eagle
Northeast Texas Community College
March 24, 2017
Sports
Lady Eagles battle hard to bring home some wins By Na’Chyna Rogers Staff Writer Although the Northeast Texas Community College Lady Eagles has its ups and downs this season for them, these last games few games has shown that they will not go down without a fight. The ladies have been working extremely hard to bring in some wins, and these last few games they have shown that hard work, dedication and team work pays off. The ladies played a double header against Navarro last Tuesday. In the first game, the Eagles struggled for the lead and captured it in a 7-6 win. The ladies fought tough against Navarro and all their hard work and dedication payed off because Navarro wasn’t able to get on top of the Lady Eagles. “We struggled leaving base runners on and not executing at the plate against Navarro,” said Head Coach Keith. The second game against Navarro, the ladies put up a good fight but could not hold the lead and Navarro took the win with a 9-2
score. Even though they came back with one win and one loss, they continued to work hard on the field, each day and work toward their goal. With this set-in mind, the ladies went out and left their all on the field. “[In our game] against Paris our pitchers did their job and kept base runners off and did a great job hitting the ball and scoring our base runners,” said Coach Keith. Recently, the team also played a double header against Paris and came out with a double win. Game one, the Lady Eagles took a 9-3 win, followed by putting a 9-1 win under their belt. The coach said her team’s hard work really started to show as they went into the last game of the double header. “Second game versus Paris is where it all came together. Pitching, hitting and executing,” said Keith. The last few wins have been hard fought but as conference play continues, the team will be facing some of their toughest competitors. The Eagles will play at home against BossierParish on March 25.
staff photo|daniel yanez
Nadia Ballarin is on top of her game as she fields the ball just as an opponent from Navarro College charges into third base. The Eagles took the win over Navarro in a close 8 to 7 win in the first of double header play. The Eagles went on to lose the second game of the series 6 to 2. They will play at home against Bossier-Parish on Saturday, March 25.
staff photo|na’chyna rogers|
Above: Eagles first baseman Will Dawson is making sure nothing gets past him as he guards the base in a recent game against Panola College. Right: Darien Simms remains focused in the batters box as the ball quickly approaches his bat. The Eagles are holding strong and have the playoffs in their sights as they move into the last few weeks of conference play.
courtesy photo|teresa flores
Eagles push through season with another win By Na’Chyna Rogers Staff Writer For most students, Spring Break is the time to relax and let go of their inhibitions, but for the Eagle baseball team it was all practice, practice, practice and more practice. Over the break, the team competed in four games, two against Panola and single games against Hill and Angelina. Northeast got out of a sixrun lead in the fifth inning and held a victory of 6-4 against Panola on Thursday, March 16, where Northeast made a strong showing by capturing the lead in the first inning. Brady Batten earned the win for the Eagles, pitching six innings, giving zero runs, four hits and striking out five until he was pulled out at the top of the 7th inning, eventually being replaced by Kobe Huett. “Brady pitched really well and we were very proud of him,” said Eagles Assistant Baseball Coach Matt Durst. Huett threw one and onethird innings as three relievers
helped the Eagles to a victory. Tommy Kay recorded the last three outs to earn the save for the win. The Eagles collected nine hits during Thursday’s game against the Ponies. Chase Talbot, Chandler Dean and Brady Batten each collected multiple hits for Northeast. On March 18, the Eagles traveled to Panola for a double header. Sadly, the team struggled and neither game ended with a win. Early in the game, there was a tied score with Batten, Kyle Moos and Jhosmel Rodriguez each scoring one run. The game remained tied up until the bottom of the sixth inning when Panola scored on an error, earning one run. The Eagles were never able to recover and lost to Panola, 4-3. The last game against Panola resulted in the Eagles losing the lead late in a 14-6 defeat. Despite the loss, the boys collected seven hits and three runs in the high-scoring
affair. The Eagles scored three runs in the fourth inning was driven by a fielder’s choice by Darien Simms. “They aren’t playing bad but they aren’t playing great either,” Durst said. The team captured the lead in the first inning with two outs in the first until Bundy drove in the runs when he homered. The team collected 13 hits, Chase Talbot, Taylor Barber, and Bundy each collected multiple hits for the Northeast Texas Eagles Varsity Spring 2017. Bundy went 2-for-5 at the plate as he led the team, with six batted in. The most plays with 13 was Kyle Moos. The games didn’t end with spring break when the Eagles also played against Angelina, at home on Thursday, March 23. Justin Bundy collected four hits in the afternoon game. The Eagles defeated Angelina with a 12-4 win. Bundy showed that he had a hot bat once again with hits in multiple innings. He singled in the first, allowing
courtesy photo|teresa flores
Justin Bundy swings into a hit during a recent game against Panola. The team will travel to Lufkin to take on Angelina college on Saturday, March 25. the Eagles to grab an early lead. Along with his single, Bundy also doubled in the third, and singled in the fifth and the sixth innings. Bundy wasn’t the only player putting numbers on the board. Kyle Moos hit a home run in the bottom of the second.
Brady Batten earned the win for the Eagles when he pitched six innings, giving up two runs, five hits, and striking out five opponents. The Eagles had 15 hits in the game. Moos, Chandler Dean, Batten and Darien Simms each collected multiple hits. Jhosmel Rodriguez had the
most chances in the field with seven. The Eagles will travel to Lufkin on Saturday, March 25, to end the three game series against Angelina. The first game will begin at 4 p.m., with only seven innings, followed immediately by a nine inning game between the Eagles and Angelina.
March 24, 2017
The Eagle
Northeast Texas Community College
Page 7
Entertainment
by kieran martin
Staff Writer
We all know the first day of April is for pulling pranks on our unsuspecting family and friends, but do we really know from where the tradition originated? The first recorded association between April 1st and foolishness is in Geoffrey Chaucer’s The Canterbury Tales published in 1392. In 1539, a Dutch poet wrote of a nobleman who sent his servants on foolish errands on April 1. Each country around the world celebrates the day much differently than the next. In Nordic countries, news media outlets are required to publish one false story on April 1; for newspapers, this will typically be a front page article. People in the United Kingdom believe that a person playing a joke after midday is the April fool themselves. Some of the most famous April Fools’ Day pranks caused outrage and panic by the public. In 1996, Taco Bell took out a full page ad in six major American newspapers announcing that they had bought the Liberty Bell and were renaming it “Taco Liberty Bell.” A British news program set the bar high for their epic April Fools pranks. The television show convinced thousands of people that they could grow a new food in their yard when they ran a special on the “spaghetti tree.” Hundreds of viewers called in demanding to know just how they could harvest their own spaghetti. The segment featured young girls picking cooked pasta from tree branches and placing them in a basket. The anchors confessed to prank before the broadcast concluded. High school and college students are always eager to participate in a good prank no matter the time of year. My favorite April Fools’ Day prank is separating Oreos and scraping the cream out on the inside, then switching it with toothpaste. I love to watch my friend’s reactions when they bite into the cookie,” said Ray Davis. “One prank I pull every year is putting clingfilm under the seat of the toilet at our home and waiting outside the bathroom to hear the disgusted screams,” said Madison Garza. One day out of the year where we can be silly is a tradition that should be dearly held onto. Sources:bbc.co.uk & rare.us
‘The Fosters’ displays family dynamics
Kieran Martin Staff Writer
The Fosters is a conventional family drama with an insanely unconventional family. The family is an interracial lesbian couple with one biological kid, two adopted Hispanic twins, and a foster daughter straight out of a juvenile detention center. ABC Family went all in for their new drama about a foster family with the oh-so clever last name of Foster. The controversial show made its debut on ABC Family (now Freeform) in 2013 bang in the middle of prime time. The show focuses around the lives of wives Stef, a cop, and Lena, a vice-principal and their multi-ethnic blended family. Each episode gives us a generous helping of laughter, drama, and tears — the characters are very easy to resonate with. The show is full of such
understated tensions, like the contrast between “bad girl” Callie, who is often unfairly suspected of lying, and the feminine, seemingly conventional, virginal “good girl” Mariana, who lies with ease, perhaps because she has the biggest front to maintain. When there’s a family crisis, cracks emerge in the blended family, and the biological child, Brandon, punishes his siblings with the simple phrase “my mom”, to somewhat remind them that he is the “real child”. In a mere three and a half seasons, the show has presented us with a variety of themes. Among them: the morning-after pill, skin-color bias between a black mom and her biracial daughter, debates over gay marriage, and illegal immigration. Yet it regularly finds surprising routes into these topics, ones that are grounded in character rather than ideology.
The Fosters is a perfect example of why it makes sense to include diversity into the premise of a television show; that way you do not need to pack it into the show by season 3. The drama was met with criticism before the first episode even aired. A conservative group, “One Million Moms” attempted a boycott of the television show and demanded that the network drops the program for “attacking our faith, morals, and values” — regarding the LGBT themes. In response, The Fosters currently holds the top spot for most viewed show in the history of ABC family, placing it above the extremely popular Pretty Little Liars and Switched at Birth. The Fosters has been renewed for Season 5, which will include its 100th episode. Season 4 of The Fosters currently airs at 9 p.m. on Tuesdays on Freeform.
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Stef (center) reaches for her gun while wife Lena (right) and ex-husband Mike (left) look on. The Fosters recently began its fourth season on Freeform (formally ABC Family). The program, which focuses on the lives of an interracial lesbian couple and their children, airs on Tuesday night at 9 p.m.
Page 8
The Eagle
Northeast Texas Community College
March 24, 2017
Entertainment
The tale as old as time brings nostalgia By Iesha Fluellen Staff writer
On March 17, something magical happened to me that I once believed was impossible. I was transported back to my childhood. Yes, I know as crazy as it sounds, I felt like the little girl I once was who would constantly rewind her VHS tapes just to experience that type of warm comfort only Disney could bring. After viewing Beauty and the Beast, I was completely blown away. This was the best Disney film I’ve seen in awhile. It took me back to the days when Disney created
masterpieces like Aladdin, The Lion King and The Little Mermaid. The original Beauty and the Beast was released in that same era and gained a lot of praise. So much in fact, that it was also the first ever animated feature nominated for Best Picture at the Oscars. That’s a lot to live up to. So when it was first announced that there would be a remake, it’s understandable why people would be skeptical. Lately there’s been a wave of live action fairytales to grace the big screen. Most of which have come from Disney and are adaptations of their classic animated films. For instance,
we’ve been treated to Alice in Wonderland, Maleficent, Cinderella and last year’s box office hit, The Jungle Book. Although these films were box office juggernauts, they lacked that extra something that had once made Disney heartwarming. After seeing the movie, I’ve got to say this was hands down the best Disney live action adaptation. Everything about this film was absolutely stunning. The magic and charm of this movie took my breath away. First, I must start off with the actors and how amazing they portrayed their characters. The film stars Emma Watson as Belle and Dan Stevens as the Beast. Many of you may already be familiar with Watson for her iconic role as Hermione Granger in the Harry Potter film series. Watson brought so much more personality to Belle. While watching her portrayal of one of my all-time favorite Disney princesses, I found myself being able to relate to the character. Although people will always recognize Watson for her time playing Hermione, I have a feeling that this performance as Belle is another role she will forever be remembered for. As for Dan Stevens who played the Beast in the film, I was very impressed by his acting and believe he truly delivered when it came to the emotional scenes. It makes me happy to see Stevens doing such a big role like this. Before this film, he hadn’t crossed over into mainstream territory, but has had roles in the cult hit television series, Downton Abbey as well as starred in 2014’s mystery-
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Lumiere, voiced by Ewan McGregor, performs a lavish spectacle of “Be Our Guest.” thriller, The Guest. Currently, Stevens is not only going to be recognized by many for his role in Beauty and the Beast, but he is also the lead in a new series on FX called Legion. Stevens not only demonstrated his impressive acting chops, but he also debuted his hidden talent of singing. In the film, the Beast performs the original song “Evermore.” It is in that song, we get to witness Steven’s powerful vocals. I have a feeling he’s about to launch into A-list stardom within these next few years. Among the rest of the cast of Beauty and the Beast is Ewan McGregor as Lumiere, Ian McKellan as Cogsworth, Luke Evans as Gaston, Josh Gad as LeFou and Kevin Kline as Belle’s father Maurice. This new adaptation of Beauty and the Beast is said to be similar to the 1991 animated classic, but also have quite a few new additions to the story and characters. In this version, Belle is not only a bookworm, but an inventor as well and an artist. As for her father in this version, he’s said to be an artist also and a music box maker. It’s something he does that reminds him of his late wife that he and his daughter bond over. Among the other changes between the new adaptation and the classic is the addition
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The iconic enchanted rose is given a new look in this new rendition of the famous tale. of three new songs, all of which were composed by Alan Menken and the late Howard Ashman. The experience of watching this film was so beautiful that I went back to the theater the
next day to relive the magic all over again. Disney really brought their best with this film, and it makes me excited to see what future live action adaptations they will give us next.
‘The Voice’ returns strong By Vanessa Nevarez Staff writer
Spring Film Series Stagecoach................................3/23 The Quiet Man...........................3/30 IWO JIMA....................................4/6 The Shootist...............................4/13
Thursdays @ 6:30p.m. in H111
Once in a while I find it hard to stick with a television show. I either can’t find the time or I simply lose interest. But I recently found a show that I can’t help but make time for. NBC’s hit reality singing competition The Voice, has me eagerly waiting for the next episode. The show premiered in the U.S. on Monday, Feb. 27 for its 12th season. Celebrity judges Adam Levine, Blake Shelton, and Alicia keys from the previous season and Gwen Stefani from season 7 return along with Carson Daly as host In the show we see talented singers from all over the country, compete to become the winner of a national recording contract. The contestants must first perform a blind audition in front of the judges in the hopes of getting a spot on one of their teams. Thanks to the coaches rotating chairs, if they’re impressed by the artist they have to push a button, and the chair will turn around. If all four coaches turn, the artist must then choose whose team they want to join. On the other hand if no coach pushes their button the contestant is eliminated from the competition. When the teams are all
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From left to right are judges Adam Levine, Alicia Keys, Gwen Stefani and Blake Shelton. full, each contestant has to go through three stages: the battle rounds, the knockouts and the live performance shows to make it to the finale. Unlike other competition shows the judges do not see the contestant. They listen instead to the voice singing, without a clue as to who it is. That is what I like about the show, the coaches get to choose who they want on their team based on how well the contestant sing’s, not on how they look. They mentor them, helping prepare the contestants to sing the song in a way that makes the coach decide which one to keep on their team, and advance in the competition. Instead of leaving the artist to practice the song themselves the coaches work with them, from memorizing songs to sharing their own
experiences as musicians. The vocalists grow with the advice they receive from the mentors. I admit, when I first heard of the show I thought it would be just another talent competition, but from the very first episode I was hooked. I loved the way the coaches interact with the people on their team and dedicate all their time to developing the artist’s skill. The funny jokes and teasing among the coaches when they have to battle it out to get the artist on their team. It is very entertaining watching them stop at nothing to persuade the contestant onto their team. With the title of winning coach on the line, the coaches are just as competitive as the artists. With a new round of
vocalists each season, the superstar coaches get the opportunity to help someone’s dream come true. For the winner it is a way to kick start their music career. At some point fans can even vote for their favorite artist to keep them on the show. A person could easily become a fan of the show, you can do what I did and watch it on NBC every Monday and Tuesday, or download The Voice official app. To me, this show is nothing like your typical singing competition reality show. It has a personality to it. Not only does it make you want to root for the contestants, but you see that the judges actually do care about them. I would greatly recommend this show to those who love singing and competitions.