T he e agle ntcceagleonline.com
Volume 34 Issue 8
Thursday May 4, 2017
NORTHEAST TEXAS COMMUNITY COLLEGE
PROGRAM CLOSURE
LONGTIME POLICE ACADEMY CLOSES BY DANIEL YANEZ Editor-in-Chief The Northeast Texas Community College Police Academy will close its doors to students in the fall 2017 semester. Northeast President Dr. Brad Johnson said NTCC will turn its home-based program over to Kilgore College. Instruction for the program will be offered by Kilgore while Northeast furnishes the facility. Johnson said the transition will occur June 1. At the moment, entire details on the agreement have still not been announced. The understanding has been approved by both presidents and is expected to be officially signed sometime soon. Although Kilgore College will offer cadet certification
instruction on campus, Northeast will continue to offer a criminal justice associate degree to students. The closure of the Police Academy program, which began in 1993, is comparable to that of the Dental Hygiene program that was closed in 2013. Johnson said program closures like these are always an emotional decision. “Any program closure is difficult, this one was similar to dental hygiene in that in both cases, the college has interacted a lot with these programs,” said Johnson. “Our police academy faculty has helped us in other ways besides just teaching their classes, they’ve been active parts of our campus family. The cadets have helped us with events and other things on campus. It’s a decision you know affects people you care about, and that’s
hard.” While the particulars of the agreement have not yet been released, Johnson said Kilgore College will continue to offer a day and night academy on the NTCC campus that will allow students to become certified. “I think the best way to describe what is happening with our police academy would be to say we are transitioning from a homebased program to a collaborative program,” said Johnson. “Under the agreement, a day academy and night academy will be delivered annually. Our local students will continue to have the opportunity to become licensed peace officers through a locally available program.” Johnson said several efforts have been made in previous years to try to revamp the
CAMPUS LIFE
NTCC Police Academy, but the program has not been able to reach the potential the college was hoping for. “A number of years ago we opened our police academy. We opened it with the intention of serving the northeast quarter of the I-30 corridor,” said Johnson. “We’ve never been able to fully reach that quarter. For eight years that has been our top priority to try to expand our reach.” Johnson also said compensation for those services being offered has to be fairly met by the educational experience. He added that the law enforcement field is an extremely competitive community and the standards for that area of curriculum must be set high.
See Police Academy on pg. 2
CAMPUS CARRY
College releases gun policy info Special to The Eagle
STAFF PHOTO
| DANIEL YANEZ
“Pucker-up!” This youngster offers one of the rodeo team member’s horse some sugar during the NTCC annual Kid’s Rodeo. The athletes work with children during the special needs portion of the rodeo. They then offer a traditional live rodeo performance for area school children. For more photos from the event see page 14.
WATER DAMAGE
Accumulating rainfall causes damage to IT building KENZIE MESSER Managing Editor In recent weeks the northeast Texas region received serious amounts of rainfall in a short span of time causing roads to flood and water damage to local businesses and other residential structures. NTCC also suffered from the excessive rainfall, which caused significant damage to the Industrial Technology (IT) building. The fast falling precipitation quickly filled the gutter system forcing the water to overflow and soak into the surrounding walls, which caused extensive damage to the east side of the building. According to Northeast President Dr. Brad Johnson, a reported six inches of rain caused enough damage that a number of classes had to be relocated from the building. Plant Services Director Tom Ramler said the efforts to try and dry the building out were ineffective. “It wasn’t a normal flood where the water wicks up from the floor,” Ramler said, “in this situation, it came from the top down, and so all that insulation in the wall was soaking wet. There was no way to get the water out of that insulation, so the only way to solve this problem was to open those walls up.” In order to fix the water damage, walls and insulation were removed by Servpro of Paris, a residential and commercial restoration service company. Ramler also said anything that was deemed harmful in the building, was sprayed to kill possible growth in the walls. “The first step is to stop damage,” Ramler said. “Everything that was wet has been torn out. Now we are waiting on the insurance adjuster to come back at us with their evaluation.” Northeast has filed a claim for the incident with the college’s insurance. It is unsure at the moment as to how much of the damages the insurance will pay for, but the college will have to pay the deductible first. “We are hopeful the insurance will cover it all,” Vice President for Administrative Services Jeff Chambers said. “Talking with the insurance adjuster, I believe the insurance
STAFF PHOTO
Concealed carrying of handguns on the Northeast Texas Community College campus will become legal on Aug. 1, and will be regulated by the policy now under review. A committee of faculty, staff and students worked to craft the policy, which has now been reviewed by the college attorney and President. Dr. Brad Johnson, NTCC President, has made the draft policy available on the college website www.ntcc. edu/ccdraft.pdf and asked that questions or comments be directed to his office. The next step will be a final review of the policy in light of any feedback received from the campus community in the next three weeks. A final version will be presented to the Board of Trustees at the May 23 board meeting. Once the policy is approved the College will post signs designating areas that, under the policy, will be permanent exemption zones. Temporary exemption zones will be created when certain events require such a designation. There will be information and training meetings for faculty, staff and students early in the fall term as to implementation of this policy.
ACADEMICS
Student receives high academic recognition Special to The Eagle Ryan-Rose Mendoza, a sophomore at Northeast Texas Community College, has been named a 2017 Coca-Cola Community College Academic Team Silver Scholar. The CocaCola Scholars Foundation sponsors the Coca-Cola Community College Academic Team program by recognizing 50 Gold, 50 Silver and 50 Bronze Scholars, and providing nearly $200,000 in scholarships annually. Each Silver Scholar receives a $1,250 scholarship and a special medallion. Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society administers the
Ryan-Rose Mendoza Coca-Cola Community College Academic Team Program. Student scholars receive local, state and national recognition at Phi Theta Kappa’s annual convention, being held April
See Scholarship on pg. 2
| DANIEL YANEZ
A worker from Servpro rips out some of the waterlogged insulation in the IT building following the six-inch downpour that fell in mid April. will cover a vast majority of it, if not all of it. The insurance has already let us know that we can continue to repair the things that we have been repairing. We are hoping to hear something from them maybe next week as far as how much they’ll cover, and then we will go from there.” The water damage has caused the need to replace the drywall, insulation, the floor electrical and many of the ceiling tiles, along with some carpet and furniture, but there is no damage to the outside brick. Since the walls had to be removed, many classes were relocated throughout campus. Along with the classes, Communities in Schools was also relocated.
See Industrial Technology on pg. 2
PG. 12
SUICIDE AWARENESS WALK PG. 7-10
UPCOMING EVENTS Shelby Showcase.......................................................................................May 6 Finals Week..........................................................................................May 8-12 Graduation...............................................................................................May 13 Mother’s Day...........................................................................................May 14 May Intersession.....................................................................................May 17 Summer 1..................................................................................................June 5
EAST TEXAS SPECIAL SECTION
Page 2
The Eagle
Northeast Texas Community College
May 4, 2017
NEWS POLICE ACADEMY Cont. from pg. 1
STAFF PHOTO
| MANDY SMITH
Students spend time shopping during the College Store’s grand reopening earlier this week. Many students took advantage of the door prizes and giveaways throughout the day.
BOOKSTORE
College store moves to new location BY KENZIE MESSER Managing Editor The Northeast College Store recently moved from its longtime home adjacent to the Learning Resource Center to its newly designed location in the Student Union Building. Bookstore Director Naomi Taylor said the store’s new locale will help more students access their products and services. “I think in a sense we are a little more visible because we’re right by the food service side of the SUB,” Taylor said. “I’ve seen customers come in that I haven’t seen before. I think we are catching more people because we’re here, and once they add the game room, I think it’s going to increase our flow.” The College Store’s relocation is part of the $19.9 million construction project that has been ongoing across campus for the past year and a half.
The move to the new facility wasn’t completely challenge-free for Taylor and her staff. Some light construction was still taking place in parts of the Student Union Building located in front of the new space and the floors in the back of the store were still being sealed. Taylor and her crew worked around the construction by unpacking boxes, putting together and stocking shelves and organizing the store for its grand opening held on May 1. “We’ve had some hiccups, but we’ve worked through it,” said Taylor. “I think the front is laid out better. I like how everything is laid out with the counters. I love it.” She said along with the new location, the College Store will also be increasing their snack offerings. In the fall, the staff is hoping to have a double drink box to increase their selections and they are looking at different ice-cream venders. Taylor added that the arrangement of
the new store also contributes to the aesthetic and highlights the merchandise on display. “I’m definitely most excited about the wall displays,” Taylor said. “I think they just make it look nice. We’ve had several people say that it looks like a collegiate store, and I think it’s true. To me, it looks like we’re up there, now. The floors are nice, and with the wall displays, I think it just attracts the eye to our college-inspired items.” Northeast students and sisters Hannah and Emily Dove said they are pleased with the new location of the College Store. Emily said she especially likes the new merchandise displays while her sister said the locale is what she’s most excited about. “It’s more convenient. Before, if you were hanging out in the SUB, you had to walk all the way over there to get a snack,” Hannah said. “This is nice because it’s just real accessible.”
FUNERAL SERVICE
Northeast mortuary science program prepares to apply for accreditation BY DANIEL YANEZ Editor-in-Chief The Mortuary Science program is in its second semester of instruction at Northeast Texas Community College. The program offers courses in mortuary science and funeral service for students interested in a profession in either field. Before the start of the program at NTCC, there were only four locations statewide where students could obtain such credentials. Northeast has since become the fifth institution to offer direction in funeral services. Funeral service student Jade Lewis said the new program has offered her the opportunity to pursue what was once an interest that seemed unattainable. “Funeral service has always been a career that piqued my interest,” said Lewis, “financially, it was always out of reach. Having the program come to NTCC made it a more reachable goal.” Northeast Funeral Service Director Rebecca Gardner said the associate of applied science degree that Northeast offers is comparable to the funeral service degrees at the other two public institutions in Texas, Amarillo College and San Antonio College. The Houston Commonwealth Institute of Funeral Science and the Dallas Institute of Funeral Service serve as private entities and offer respective certification programs. Gardner added that the Northeast program has not yet received accreditation status from the American Board of Funeral Service Education (ABFSE). Gardner said the funeral service program, however, does operate within the Health Science Department and is recognized as a candidate for accreditation. Effective April 2017, the college will undergo a two-year process to receive accreditation with the ABFSE. By the end of 2017, the funeral service program intends to apply for initial accreditation. The appointment for program accreditation would then take place in April 2018, one month prior to the graduation of the program’s first cohort. Once completed, the program also intends to become a licensed
“If you want to be able to consistently improve your program, you need to become well equipped and you need to be able to set the number of classes and the class size based on what’s ideal for the educational experience,” said Johnson. “If you can’t get to that level, then you’re going to have to compromise somewhere. Ether you compromise on how well equipped you are or you compromise on how picky you are on who you admit to the program.” Richard Jones, director of the NTCC police academy, spoke about his appreciation for the chance to work with the many cadets that went through the police academy. Jones said he is disappointed to see the police academy close, but stands by the legacy that he and fellow instructor Leonard Newman will be leaving. He said the program boasts FBI agents, Texas Rangers, DPS officers and local law enforcement officers throughout the area. He was proud of the 100 percent passing rate closing, Jones also talked about Newman and his contribution to the program’s success rate. “I appreciate the opportunity I have had to train many cadets that are now peace officers. They’ve
offered me an opportunity that I would normally not have had,” said Jones. “The agencies I’ve talked to who hire our people, take them through a field training course and say they can tell the difference between one of our cadets and one of the cadets from another academy.” Despite the fact the Northeast Police Academy is closing, Johnson said it is still the goal of the college to give students the opportunity to study for criminal justice degree through NTCC and the option to become a certified peace officer through Kilgore. “We will continue to offer the criminal justice associate degree which is really valuable for anybody that wants to go beyond and wants to become a sheriff or move to the highway patrol, they need a degree and they will continue to get those from NTCC,” said Johnson. “The East Texas Police Academy will offer a day and a night police academy each year. So our area of law enforcement is still going to have the opportunity to have graduates from this program that they can employ. That was really important to us, we wanted people to be able to get their training here and that will continue.”
DAMAGE Cont. from pg. 1 “There have been some complications, I’ve had to move a couple of times,” Spanish Instructor Jim Swann said. “I’ve had to have a little bit of time in the classroom to get things ready to do stuff. Basically, I see the interruption as being unfortunate. We have discovered some things that need to be fixed. We had some problems that existed that we didn’t know that we had.” Even though instructors had to move their classes, some have found a positive aspect of the situation. Swann said the orientation of his temporary classroom has helped minimize disruptions caused by incoming late students. Johnson said faculty and students have shown versatility in the midst of the disruption. “Our faculty and students showed their flexibility and we have been able to relocate those classes quickly and effectively,” said Johnson. “If such an event had to occur, the timing is fortunate in that we still have architects, engineers and construction on campus to help us repair the facilities.” As classes wind down for the semester, Ramler said he is not concerned that the walls wouldn’t be fixed before classes start back in the fall. Ramler said they are currently looking into ways to make sure that this same issue doesn’t happen in the future. “The other piece of this puzzle that we want to make sure before we make any repairs is that we have addressed the underlying problem,” said Ramler. “There is too much water in the gutters. We have the architect involved at this point looking at the gutters around the building and making recommendations for changes so that, when we do have the walls replaced on the inside, we don’t have a similar problem in the future.”
SCHOLARSHIP Cont. from pg. 1
STAFF PHOTO
| DANIEL YANEZ
The mortuary science program is preparing to move into the classroom portion of the curriculum. The recent campus renovations have allowed for the program to obtain a restorative arts lab giving students a hands-on experience. funeral facility by the state of Texas, allowing embalmings to be performed on campus. The program, which has limited space, has initially been presented in an online format with hopes to soon offer oncampus classes upon completion of the ongoing campus renovations. Gardner said one of the hopes is to “offer a hands-on learning experience to develop skills associated with embalming and restoration.” As part of the curriculum, students will participate in embalming clinical experiences and a restorative art laboratory. The program currently has eight clinical sites at area funeral homes and hopes that the number of clinical sites will increase over time. The college has already accommodated a classroom and restorative arts lab for the program. With the campus renovations underway, the anatomy and physiology lab in the industrial technology building will soon be turned into an embalming lab and casket display room allowing students to receive real-world experiences on campus. For Gardner, being a funeral
director and embalmer is a rewarding opportunity. Gardner said that through her profession she has been able to help hundreds of families in one what might be one of the most difficult times. “Being a funeral director does not only affect our professional lives, it affects all aspects of our lives. My role as a daughter, sister, wife, and mother are also impacted, as I have seen many things that most do not in a lifetime,” said Gardner. “This career has personally taught me not to take my family and friends for granted and appreciate every day we have in this world, as I am very aware that tomorrow isn’t promised.” Although the funeral service practice might seem somewhat taboo to some people, Lewis said the profession plays an important role for families in a time of grievance. “Funeral service is a rewarding career,” said Lewis. “Serving families in what is perhaps their greatest moment of need gives an incredible sense of fulfillment.” Lewis said she is excited about the future face-to-face portion of the program and all the hard work and effort put into the program by Ms. Gardner.
6-8, in Nashville, TN. High-achieving students are nominated for the award by campus administrators. An independent panel of judges considers academic achievement, leadership, and engagement in college and community service in the selection process. Medallions are awarded to the top students based on academic achievement, community service, and the quality of numerous essay submissions. Mendoza plans to transfer to Columbia University or the University of Houston, where she will major in Mass Communications. Ryan is a 2016 Coca-Cola Leader of Promise and recipient of the Dr. Jerry Wesson Scholarship. She is one of three NTCC students who were named semifinalists for the prestigious Jack Kent Cooke Foundation Undergraduate Transfer Scholarship. The winners for that award will be announced later this spring. Mendoza is the current President of Alpha Mu Chi, NTCC’s chapter of Phi Theta Kappa. She is also an Honors Scholar in Honors Northeast,
an officer in the Student Government Association (SGA) and Amigos Unidos and a staff writer for the Eagle student newspaper. She completed an internship for County Line Magazine last summer. A member of Who’s Who, Ryan is also a recipient of the Horizon Award and President’s Academic Excellence Award. Ryan also worked as a researcher and unit production manager for the most recent Honors Film. “Ryan-Rose became very involved in our Phi Theta Kappa chapter from the very beginning. She is exceptionally talented and brings a high level of enthusiasm that is infectious to those around her,” Dr. Melissa Fulgham, advisor for NTCC’s Alpha Mu Chi chapter of Phi Theta Kappa, said. Phi Theta Kappa is the premier honor society recognizing the academic achievement of community college students to grow as scholars and leaders. The Society is made up of more than 3.2 million members and nearly 1,300 chapters in nine nations.
May 4, 2017
The Eagle
Northeast Texas Community College
Page 3
NEWS PHI THETA KAPPA
Alpha Mu Chi wins seven awards at international convention BY RYAN ROSE-MENDOZA Staff Writer
COURTESY PHOTO
Members of Alpha Mu Chi recently attended Phi Theta Kappa’s international convention in Nashville. The chapter brought home seven awards from the event including the prestigious Distinguished Chapter recognition. Pictured above from left front row, Emmalea Shaw, Melody Mott, Dylan McConnell, Ryan Mendoza, Cassidy Watkins, Kassy Martinez, middle row, Melissa Fulgham, Tim Allen, Chesney Davis, Sarah Spiker, back row, Scott Fulgham, Debbie Strong, Zac Migues, Jeffrey Wilson.
FOUNDATION
Foundation raises more than $7k on East Texas Giving Day SPECIAL TO THE EAGLE The Northeast Texas Community College Foundation participated in East Texas Giving Day Tuesday to raise money for emergency scholarships to provide much-needed assistance to students in distress. NTCC employees, foundation board members and community friends gave generously during the event, with gifts totaling $7,115. The college will also receive approximately $3,000 in additional funding as a result of participating in the event, bringing the total to $10,000 for student scholarships. “We are so grateful for the support we received from our employees and friends to make this day such a big success for our students,” said Nita May, Director of Development. “Our employees give generously all year long to support college programs and students in ways we cannot always quantify. We appreciate their support and
the on-going support of our community.” East Texas Giving Day is an 18-hour online event that brings the region together as a community for one day, raising money and awareness for East Texas nonprofits such as the Northeast Texas Community College Foundation. “East Texas Giving day was a great time to give to the emergency scholarship fund, because the first $2,500 in individual gifts were doubled by a matching gift from the Marans Fund,” said May. “Burt and Nancy Marans were very generous supporters of the college
and we are thankful that their generosity continues to provide support for our students today through their planned gift.” East Texas Giving Day is organized by East Texas Communities Foundation (ETCF), and provides citizens across ETCF’s 32-county service area an easy platform to support the mission of local nonprofits that serve our communities. For more information about how you can give to the emergency scholarship fund or other scholarships for students at NTCC, please call Nita May, Director of Development 903-434-8113.
AMIGOS UNIDOS
COURTESY PHOTO
NTCC’s Spanish Club, Amigos Unidos, recently elected new officers for the upcoming 2017-18 school year. Above, front row from left, Stephania Juarez, Elias Reyes, Maria Gomez, Jessica Soc, Angel Flores and Nubia Sanchez. Back row are last year’s officers, Elizabeth Esquitin, Kelly Brizuela, Jesus Juarez and Erika Pilgrim.
Alpha Mu Chi, NTCC’s chapter of Phi Theta Kappa, returned victoriously from an award-winning and enriching experience at PTK Catalyst 2017 in Nashville April 6-9. The chapter returned home from the annual international convention with seven awards including Distinguished Chapter, Distinguished College Project, Distinguished Member (Tim Allen), Distinguished Alumni (Isaac Burris), Continued Excellence Award for Advisers (Dr. Melissa Fulgham), Mosal Award (Dr. Melissa Fulgham) and Top 100 Chapter. Alpha Mu Chi competes for these awards against chapters from around the world, in the United States and eight other sovereign nations. “To be named a Distinguished Chapter puts Alpha Mu Chi among the very top group of chapters within the International Honor Society. It is indicative of the hard work members put in all year long,” Alpha Mu Chi Adviser Dr. Melissa Fulgham said. “The officer team, in particular, does an exceptional job in leading and organizing chapter events, maintaining the high quality required to be recognized at the International level.” International scholarship winners Emma Shaw, Ryan-Rose Mendoza and Dylan McConnell marched onstage before thousands in the parade of scholars. Alpha Mu Chi traveled nearly 600 miles to attend the international convention. The event was held in the Gaylord Convention Center in Nashville, Tennessee. Fourteen people represented Alpha Mu Chi in Nashville: Ryan-
Rose Mendoza, Dylan McConnell, Melody Mott, Emmalea Shaw, Kassy Martinez, Cassidy Watkins, Zac Migues, Jeffery Wilson, Tim Allen, Chesney Davis, Debbie Strong, Sarah Spiker and Melissa & Scott Fulgham. General Session speakers included Dr. Jennifer Arnold, an attending neonatologist at Baylor College of Medicine, Medical Director of the Simulation Center at Texas Children’s Hospital and star of the TLC television series The Little Couple. International award-wining photographer Platon shared his photographs of world leaders and what he has learned about power in the course of a career that has spanned covers of Rolling Stone, The New York Times magazine, Vanity Fair, Esquire, GQ and Time magazine. Mythbuster host Jaime Hyneman discussed behind the scenes stories from the famous show as well as some of his most memorable myth-busting moments. Attendees also learned more at educational forum workshops, visited with transfer colleges across the nation at the college fair, and browsed merchandise from Phi Theta Kappa and its partners (such as Geico and Pearson) in the marketplace. Scarce free time allowed attendees to visit museums and attractions in the country music capital. A few ardent country music fans made time to attend the Grand Ole Opry to hear Kelly Pickler and the Charlie Daniels Band perform, among others. “We came away proud of our chapter, and most importantly we have inspired the new chapter members and officers to work hard for next year,” Melody Mott, chapter treasurer, said.
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The Eagle
Northeast Texas Community College
May 4, 2017
NEWS AGRICULTURE
Agriculture students win awards at state competition Special to The Eagle Students in the Northeast Texas Community College Agriculture Department won big recently as they took home multiple awards from the Texas JuniorCollege Agriculture Association (TJCAA) Competition at Sam Houston State University. Michael Rundle placed third in Horticulture Quiz, third in Wildlife Quiz and second in Agronomy. Rundle also served as Vice President of State Officers at the event. Rundle and Alex Plunkitt won third place in Public Relations and the team helped Peter Feijen place first in Scrapbook. The wins earned NTCC enough points to take home an impressive second place spot in the Sweepstakes category. “Excellent work that is done all year long
and year after year at our Ag Program always pays off in the end,” Rene’ McCracken, NTCC Ag Director, said. “I’d like to offer special thanks to our instructors Chad Henry, Laci Derrick and farm manager Doug Beason, who worked hard preparing and coaching our students.” Rundle said the event offered him the opportunity to gain more insight into the field of agriculture and to share that interest with fellow students from other colleges. “It was an exciting experience,” he said. “The most valuable moment came when I realized the future of our food industry will soon be in the hands of some very bright young men and women.” To learn more about agriculture at NTCC, visit www.ntcc.edu/ag or contact McCracken at 903-434-8267.
COURTESY PHOTO
The NTCC Ag group that traveled to compete at Sam Houston State University included from left, Martin Moreano, Alex Plunkitt, Michael Rundle, Peter Feijen, Rene’ McCracken, Caitlin Nurre and Brennon Davis.
COURTESY PHOTO
STAFF PHOTO|NA’CHYNA ROGERS
The Carroll Shelby Automotive Technology Program carriesw on the name of the famous race car legend, pictured above.
A grant has been applied for to create a walking trail around the former waste water pond for everyone on campus to enjoy.
SHELBY AUTOMOTIVE
WALKING TRAIL
Automotive department to host College awaits grant response Carrol Shelby Memorial Cruise to update pond, walking trail Special to The Eagle The Carroll Shelby Automotive Technology Program at Northeast Texas Community College will host a Carroll Shelby Memorial Cruise event Saturday, May 6. The event will be held at the Shelby Automotive Technology Building on the NTCC campus beginning at 9 a.m. The cruise will kick off with an Engine Rev to honor the memory of Shelby, who passed away May 12, 2010. Participants will then cruise Shelby’s hometown and the roads he grew up on. There is no charge to participate, but raffle
tickets will be sold to benefit the NTCC Shelby Automotive Program and the Carroll Shelby Foundation. A silent auction will also be held. Shelby was a major supporter of the NTCC automotive program in his later years and he lent both his name and financial support to help ensure that students are able to receive high-quality automotive training right here in northeast Texas. The Carroll Shelby Foundation remains a major supporter of the program. For more information about the Carroll Shelby Memorial Cruise, call 903-434-8159 or e-mail rluellen@ntcc.edu.
BY DANIEL YANEZ Editor-in-Chief While most people on campus are ready to see construction finally come to a close, there’s still one proposed project that a lot of folks are hoping will take place over the next year. The college is in the process of applying for grants to develop a greenspace project that would include a multipurpose, half-mile walking fitness trail. The vision for this undertaking came about because of the wastewater treatment project that connected NTCC’s sewer system to the City of Mount Pleasant. The college is now seeking ways to repurpose the wastewater treatment pond located near the front entrance of the campus and the land surrounding it. Northeast Vice President for Advancement Dr. Jonathan McCullough said the college has applied for two government grants to help fund the project, which has been estimated at $411,000. He said they were disappointed to learn recently that they did not receive the Texas Parks and Wildlife (TPWD) grant, but that the college is still in the pool for a grant from the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA). According to McCullough, the USDA grant could, however, take up to a year to process. McCullough said that they need both grants to move the project forward and are not giving up on a grant from the TPWD. He said they plan to reapply with the agency in the next cycle. Based on the waiting periods, however, McCullough said he doesn’t expect anything to happen before next summer. “The truth is USDA won’t be enough by itself,” said McCullough. “We’ll have to turn around and submit another Texas Parks and Wildlife and there’s about another eight months before the next cycle opens up. It’s a year away from us knowing.” McCullough said applying for grants is a tedious activity, but one that will be worth it if the college receives the funds. “I feel like the park is very important. We’re turning the wastewater treatment plant into a freshwater pond and we have a goal to put in fisheries down there. We want a community-wide fitness park. I don’t want to get anybody’s hopes up thinking that it’s going to happen anytime soon because it’s a slow process.”
Northeast Director of Development Nita May has been involved in the grant writing process and explained the procedures when applying for these types of grants. May said this is the first time the college has applied for these grants. An online publication by the USDA Rural Development website states that essential community infrastructure is key in ensuring that rural areas enjoy the same basic quality of life and services enjoyed by those in urban areas. The Community Facilities Programs offer direct loans, loan guarantees and grants to develop or improve essential public services and facilities. May said she would like to see the walking trail and pond become a reality for the campus. “I think it’s an overall good project for us if we can get it done. It’s the sitting and the waiting that we just don’t know yet,” said May. “It would be a trail that could be used by many people. It’s very accessible. It would be open to students, employees and even to the surrounding communities.” By adding aesthetic value and serving a practical purpose, McCullough said the inspiration for the project came from the campus community and involvement. McCullough said he has noticed more people are using Fitbits and pedometers as well as more individuals are taking breaks to go out and walk on the campus. Northeast Professor of Exercise Science Dr. Tom Seabourne said the park would give people who live in the area a good place to visit the campus and enjoy the outdoors. The trail, which would encompass the perimeter of the pond. , would bring about a new recreational addition to the Northeast campus. Seabourne also said there are also additional benefits to a walking trail. “If we receive funding for the exercise stations, I bet the Mount Pleasant, Pittsburg and Daingerfield communities will make the trip out to Northeast to use it, especially if adjacent to the trail we were able to provide a manicured landscape with plants and flowers,” said Seabourne. “There is a ton of research suggesting that outdoor training is more beneficial psychologically than indoor training a.k.a treadmills. Our student-athletes will use it. And of course all of my classes can warm up and cool down with a quick walk/ jog workout. I wouldn’t be surprised if local high schools decided to use our proposed longer trail as their cross-country course.”
May 4, 2017
The Eagle
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Northeast Texas Community College
NEWS
The Eagle returns home with 28 TIPA awards JOURNALISM BY DANIEL YANEZ Editor in Chief Northeast Texas Community College’s student-ran publications The Eagle and Lagniappe returned home earlier this month with 28 awards. The awards included several first and second place awards and a number of third place and honorable mentions. Along with the awards, Daniel Yanez was also awarded the Mike Warms Scholarship and former journalism student and editor-in-chief, Teresa Flores, was awarded Reporter of the Year in The Eagle’s division. A second place award in Overall Excellence in Division 5 was also presented to The Eagle. Lagniappe won five of the awards including third place overall. Members of the newspaper and literary magazine staff traveled to Dallas in April for the annual Texas Intercollegiate Press Association (TIPA) convention. As part of the conference, students compete in live journalism events and submit previously published work that is judged by professionals from notable media sources from around the country. Yanez, the outgoing editorin-chief, said the event was memorable and reflected the success of The Eagle and literary publication during his time at NTCC.
“Two years ago I started on the staff as a layout and design editor, as I moved up I was able to grow with the staff and see their talents really shine through,” said Yanez. “The late hours, cold pizza and long discussions really paid off. I think it’s really important to see these students’ work rewarded.” In the last four years, Lagniappe literacy magazine has helped the team accumulate several awards in literary writing and artwork exposition. Lagniappe is joint effort between journalism, Sigma Kappa Delta English honor society and students from the NTCC Art Department. “I am so excited about this year’s TIPA results,” Smith said. “These students put in countless hours writing and editing stories and laying out the newspaper. When they receive these types of accolades, it just reaffirms that their hard work and effort really pays off.” Smith said she was especially excited about the scholarship that Yanez won and the Reporter of the Year award won by Flores. “Daniel has just been an amazing editor in chief this past year,” Smith said. “He is one of those students who walks in and you just know that he has talent beyond what he even realizes that he has. He is so innovative in his design skills and is so willing to help other students who are just learning how to write
COURTESY PHOTO
Eagle staff members left to right Daniel Yanez, Andrew McClain, Na’Chyna Rogers, Kenzie Messer, Yami Zuniga, Vanessa Nevarro, Nubia Sanchez, Iesha Fluellen and Eagle advisor Mandy Smith. stories and lay out pages. I was so happy that he was awarded a TIPA scholarship. And, we just found out that Daniel has been given an editorship at the newspaper at A&M-Commerce. I have no doubt that he will be running the place in no time.” Smith said the Reporter of the Year award could not
have gone to a better student than her former editor, Flores. “Teresa is a one of a kind journalism student. In other words, she can do it all” Smith said. “She can write sports with the best of them, put together a feature that can bring tears to your eyes and take award winning photos, all while designing pages that
win TIPA awards. There is a reason she won this award, she is indeed the Reporter of the Year, and I couldn’t be happier that she won that title while serving as a member of our Eagle staff. I can’t wait to see where that young lady goes with her career.” Fred Stewart, Executive Director for TIPA, said it
is important to provide a meeting space for students and professionals to interact. Students then have the opportunity to meet with professionals and learn from workshops and presentations. Stewart said the interest and participation level from professionals is growing each year.
Northeast informatics student Coffee bar coming to NTCC lands TRMC Internship LRC COFFEE BAR
STUDENT SPOTLIGHT
BY YAMI ZUNIGA Staff Writer
BY KENZIE MESSER Managing Editor
With construction continuing in a number of areas on the Northeast campus, one project in particular is gaining some special attention. The addition of a fullservice coffee bar is part of the renovation currently underway in the Learning Resource Center (LRC). The coffee bar will be located in the round circulation desk area that will be the centerpiece of the library’s front entrance. The Northeast board of trustees recently awarded a contract to run the coffee bar to Jo’s Coffee Shop located in downtown Mount Pleasant. A large sitting area will be located adjacent to the coffee bar. LRC Director Ron Bowden said they are hoping that the space will provide an area for casual seating that will offer students, faculty and staff a place to study or just relax with friends and enjoy themselves. “We’re real excited about the coffee shop. We are going to have a seating area especially for people who are buying coffee and there is probably going to be some pastry items too,” Bowden said. “There is going to be a mixture of furniture. There will be some high tables like you might see in a Starbucks and then some lower seating tables, so it’s a nice mix and will have a little café feel.” Bowden said he thought it was a good idea to offer the contract to a business that is already familiar to the local community. “I think it was a good decision to go with Jo’s as the coffee shop,” he said. “I’ve heard from students on campus and even one of our student workers mentioned that they really like Jo’s. So, that already seems to be a popular place for students.” Jeffery Crabb, Jo’s Downtown, owner, said he is “extremely excited’ to bring the coffee shop to the campus. “So many of the college
After graduating in May 2015, with her Associates in General Science, Health Informatics Intern, Lorri Hare began her search for a new career. While searching, Hare came across an invitation to go to a medical assisting and medical coding meeting to learn more about the programs that Northeast Texas Community College had to offer. Hare was accepted into the medical assistant program, but due to personal issues, she couldn’t commute to Northeast, so she had to suspend her application. After talking with Director/ Instructor of Medical Assistant Program Dr. Tawny Nix and Practicum coordinator and Instructor of Medical Assistant Amanda Hutchings, Hare decided to change her degree plan to the Medial Coding/Health Informatics certificate. Two years later, Hare is currently a Health Informatics intern at Titus Regional Medical Center (TRMC). “When I learned that Health Informatics was to be added to NTCCs curriculum I wanted to be the first to register for the program,” Hare said. “I have always enjoyed working with computers and the prospect of being able to study about the systems that are being used in the Healthcare Industry was very exciting to me.” With this internship, Hare
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Lorri Hare recently received an informatics internship at TRMC. has not only been able to be involved in creating workflow analysis for many departments in the hospital, but she has also been able to assist in the analysis of order sets used by the physicians and many other things. “I feel that adding an Internship to any program provides the student with invaluable exposure to their chosen field,” Hare said. “My internship at TRMC has been very informative and worthwhile. I have really enjoyed the hospital culture that I have experienced by participating in this internship.” Nix has set up various internships for her students, so the student will have the opportunity to experience firsthand what their job will be like. “Having students have the opportunity to do hands on work, and actually get in there and apply what
they have learned in the classroom to a hands on job is a wonderful experience for the student,” Nix said. “It’s a great experiential learning. It also provides them with opportunities to get employment. That’s what we want in the end. For all our students to get a job.” After completing the Health Informatics Program and her internship, Hare intends on pursuing a bachelor’s degree and then her master’s degree in health informatics. “For me, this exposure is giving me an insight into the culture and purpose of Healthcare Informatics and how it is fully integrated into hospital functions,” Hare said. “I feel that this is giving me a better opportunity to assimilate what I am learning so that I will be better equipped to pursue a career in the Healthcare Informatics field.”
Finals Week
+
Next week, May 8-12
Good Luck!
STAFF PHOTO
| DANIEL YANEZ
Jo’s coffee shop in Mount Pleasant was recently awarded the contract for the new coffee bar at NTCC. students already are familiar with Jo’s and come to Jo’s downtown to study and this will give them the option to enjoy the same thing while on campus during the day, and they can still come downtown after the library closes.” Crabb said while they will use trained baristas from Jo’s on campus in the beginning, they hope to eventually hire NTCC students to work at the coffee bar. “The long term vision is that it will be mostly college students running it,” he said. He said the punch cards that they offer customers at Jo’s downtown location will also work on campus. Crabb said since Northeast is located so far out of town, the Jo’s on campus will help build a sense of community for the students. “Build community around coffee and around snacks and things, just like they do downtown, they hang out and study together in a positive atmosphere, and they will be able to do the same thing at the college.” The new coffee shop will share space in the library with the artwork created by African American artist John T. Biggers and the large Caddo Indian pottery collection that was donated to the college a few years ago. Bowden said these pieces
would be “a draw to the college” by appealing to art critics and Native American historians. Bowden said he expects the artwork and pottery to attract people to the college since the pieces help the LRC take on the role of a small museum. Having a coffee bar and sitting area will be an added attraction to those visiting the campus to view the artwork and pottery displays in the library. “We feel privileged to have the Biggers’ art and to be able to display part of the Caddo pottery collection,” Bowden said. “It gives the Learning Resource Center a small museum aspect. We feel very honored to have that.” Bowden said the coffee shop construction is part of phase III of the LRC renovation. Bowden said the library has been able to stay open throughout the construction, although they have only been able to offer limited services to students over the past few months. He added that despite the disruption, the upgraded facility and new coffee shop would enhance the Northeast experience. “It’s been challenging, but we’re still going through it,” he said. “I keep telling people the end result will be all worth it.”
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The Eagle
Northeast Texas Community College
May 4, 2017
OPINION Eagle’s Eye: What’s cluttering up your life?
“ Exams, not knowing how well I will do depending on the subject.” - Jaworski Johnson
“ Spending hours in the lab trying to figure out my unknown bacteria for microbiology class.” - Iliana Gonzalez
“ Self doubt as to what I can accomplish.” - Marcelo Rodriguez
“Stress about not succeeding in my goals.” - Alex Plunkett
BY IESHA FLUELLEN
Staff Writer Recently, Pepsi has gone under a lot of fire for their controversial commercial. It was so controversial that it was banned from TV. The ad focused on a diverse group of millennials protesting in the streets. Kendall Jenner, known for being a member of the infamous Kardashian-Jenner family, comes across this group of protesters and joins them. The protest in the ad didn’t even look like a real world protest. Instead, it looked like a block party. Which is understandable as to why it would be offensive to some, especially to those who have actively been involved in protests and witnessed the seriousness of those situations. Protests are not something that should be glorified. There have been people who have risked a lot for what they believe in. Some have lost lives in the process. After that controversy, you would think the commercial would stop there, but no. It goes a step further. As Kendall marches with the overly happy protesters, she grabs a Pepsi and the group is suddenly in front of a line of policemen. She boldly steps before them and hands the Pepsi to one of the cops. He takes a sip of the artery clogging beverage and smiles in approval to Kendall’s selfless gesture. This action didn’t sit too well with quite a few people. There are those who believe that this was poking fun at police officers and that their job should be taken seriously.
Also, there was the fact that of all the people to give the cop a Pepsi, it was Kendall Jenner. A celebrity who hasn’t been vocal about any of the major social issues going on in our country. There are those who believe Scarlett Johansson, Macklemore or even Shia Labeouf would’ve been a better choice due to the fact that they are very active in social movements. This commercial gained tons of backlash from people of both sides of the political spectrum. Both conservatives and liberals were upset by the outcome. Conservatives were mad that the commercial portrayed liberals as peacemakers over a Pepsi. And they felt it was disrespectful to police. As for the liberals, they were upset by their portrayal because they felt the commercial seemed to show protests like block parties and that it’s a serious matter that shouldn’t be romanticized. Although this is the case, it was not Pepsi’s goal. They didn’t want to offend anyone and I can honestly see their side as far as marketing goes. They were wanting to reach a demographic that they were struggling to reach. Recent studies have shown that millennials haven’t been drinking as much soda. Of course, Pepsi wanting to increase their sales, created this ad to reach a target audience. I agree with them when they say it was not their intention to offend consumers. With all of this discussion about Pepsi, Kendall Jenner and social issues our country has been facing, I’ve got to say that it’s unfortunate that this all had to happen. It’s crazy to believe that right now we are in a world where a Pepsi ad push so many buttons.
BY BRANDON PETTEY Guest Columnist
The show 13 Reasons Why has drawn attention from many corners of America. The show was adapted from a 2007 novel by Jay Asher of the same name. It is the story of Hannah Baker, a teen who takes her own life. Baker left behind a collection of 13 cassette tapes explaining her reasons for committing suicide. The show has caused ire among many viewers who feel that it glamorizes suicide. Some have even called for it to be taken off the air. To do so would be a reactionary assault on free speech and spoil an opportunity to have an honest discussion. The topic of suicide is understandably one that causes strong emotions in many people. For people who deal with depression or have known someone who
Staff Writer For the past two years, I have spent more time on this campus than I would probably like to admit. I guess it just came with the territory of being a student worker in the financial aid office. Like I have said in the past, working here has definitely had its pros and cons, but thinking back, I seem to find more pros. Don’t get me wrong, I most definitely will NOT miss the late nights spent calling people back just to have them yell at me. I will also not miss the annoying and ever present questions like, “Where’s my refund?” or “Why are y’all taking so long to call back?” Things like being cursed at and blamed for things that are out of my control, are examples of what I am gladly going to leave behind after graduation. You would be surprised at the things we hear and see on a daily basis, but it has definitely given me some interesting stories to tell. Of course, not all of it was bad. There have been countless memories that I have made in the short time I
Garcia have worked here. My job has taught me so much, and I am so glad I got the opportunity to work at NTCC. One of the many things I am going to miss, are my coworkers. They have made this journey fun and so worthwhile. We have been through it all together: the late nights, those phone calls that we all remember (not for a good reason), and our weekly lunches known as “Tuesday Together Day” (thanks to Kenzie). They were the people who I could rant to when I hung up the phone with an exceptionally aggravating student or parent, and they understood and would share equally horrifying stories of people they had talked to the day before. I was able to make some
amazing friendships through my time working here. As a final farewell, I will leave you with these last few pieces of advice. First, get your stuff done early! That means FAFSA, schedules, verification stuff, FERPAS, and anything else that you need to start classes. It will save you some time and keep you from getting frustrated later. GET. IT. DONE. Second, be patient with the people that work here. They spend a lot of time trying to help you, and most of the time it’s not their fault if something isn’t going in your favor. Last, but not least, take advantage of the time you have here. You are the only one who can determine how good or bad your experience here is. Don’t be afraid to get involved. You’d be surprised how much fun you can have if you just try something. Heck, work on campus if you want. It can teach you so much that could help you in the future. That being said, enjoy the time you have and get your lives together. Thank you, (soon to be former) Financial Aid Student Worker.
committed suicide, 13 Reasons Why triggers a lot of pain and bad memories. Their concerns are valid and must be considered. To dismiss the show or even say that it should be cancelled, however, would be an inappropriate reflex. What it comes down to is personal responsibility. It is our job to protect ourselves from literature or shows that might cause us discomfort. If everything that was potentially offensive got taken off the air, television would be incredibly dull and nothing of substance would ever get discussed. Television has a rating system and descriptions of its programming. With this information, parents can make an informed decision whether to allow their kids to watch a particular show. To take this program off the air because it offends some people, would be taking away a parent’s right to choose what they expose their children to. The show 13 Reasons Why has caused us to start talking about a very taboo subject, and the show’s creators deserve recognition for that. We must also be aware of the purpose of artistic expression, which came sometimes cause us to feel uncomfortable. Throughout history, art has always caused controversy. From this
controversy, however, we might finally begin to have an honest discussion about mental health and suicide. Ignoring the topic and hoping it goes away has gotten us nowhere. At least now we are talking. To censor the show would be a missed opportunity. We must realize that this show offers one perspective on the topic. The program’s creators are not claiming to be mental health experts. It is our job as a society to teach our youth the real facts about mental illness. We need to show them that what happened to Hannah Baker is the result of not getting someone the help he or she needs. Hopefully, 13 Reasons Why will cause some viewers to feel free enough to talk about their pain. At least it is a valiant effort. Now that the subject has been addressed, however uncomfortable it may have been, we can begin to really talk about mental illness for what it is, a medical problem. Free speech is one of the most important tenants that this country was built on. To censor 13 Reasons Why would be a violation of one of our most valued principles. It would also ruin the opportunity to finally openly discuss a topic that is too often ignored until it is too late.
The eagle
Confessions of a student worker BY STEPHANIE GARCIA
“Schoolwork. There’s just so much to do and not enough time.” -Haley Espinosa
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 Nevarez 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.
@NTCC_TheEagle
@theeaglenewspaper
The NTCC Eagle
Greetings from
EAST TEXAS
Points of interest Mount Pleasant..................................Sweet Shop USA Daingerfiled..........................................Morris Theatre
A story about Northeast Texas BY KENZIE MESSER Managing Editor While Texas was under Mexico’s control, it was home to many various cultures. However, in 1835, Texas went to war with Mexico enduring some of the most famous battles in the history of Texas like the Battle of the Alamo and the Battle of San Jacinto, resulting in Texas gaining its independence in 1836. The newly formed independence of Texas didn’t stop Mexico from trying to recover what was once their territory. Texas began to struggle with defending their territory from Mexico, so in 1845, Texas was annexed into the United States of America. The Caddo Indians made up the majority of the population in Northeast Texas, but in 1838, settlers from the United States began to settle in the area, displacing the Indians. As the amount of settlers increased in the area, Northeast Texas became dominantly rural area, basing its economy on agriculture. Along with the corn and other agriculture that were grown in Northeast Texas, there was a lot of trade going on from states throughout the south to the port in Jefferson, Texas. In order for farmers to get their crops to the port in Jefferson, they had to travel through Clarksville, Texas to Jefferson. It took the farmers approximately five days to travel from Clarksville through Mt. Pleasant to Jefferson and get their supplies on the boat to be shipped out
and pick up any other supplies that they might have needed. After the Civil War, trade in Northeast Texas became a lot easier thanks to the newly installed railroad systems. The new railroads systems increased job opportunities for the people of Northeast Texas, and eventually, caused the population to increase in the area, and also creating the opportunity to transport other supplies like timber. The timber industry began to boom in the early 1900s because of the increase production of wooden kegs and barrels in order to make homemade moonshine. As the weather would change, it would become difficult for the wood to be transported, so a tram was built between Mt. Pleasant and Paris. The tram not only moved timber, but it also moved people and other supplies as needed, until Henry Ford’s Model T was introduced, shutting down some of the railroads. As the need for railroads decreased, the need for roads increased. There was a large need for men take a part in constructing these roads. Men from various places moved themselves and their families to Northeast Texas to help built these roads. Throughout the last century, Northeast Texas has made a lot of history for itself, allowing it to grow exponentially, but as things in the area begin to evolve, the history of Northeast Texas will continue to grow. Looking back to when Northeast Texas was initially discovered, it’s amazing to see how far we’ve come, but that doesn’t compare to how far we still have to go.
Texarkana................................................Perot Theatre Jefferson .......................................Historic Downtown Caddo Lake......................................Natural made lake Longview...................Longview Museum of Fine Arts Kilgore....................................East Texas Oil Museum Carthage...............Texas Country Music Hall of Fame Nacogdoches.............................Oldest Town in Texas Lufkin..................................................Ellen Trout Zoo Rusk.............................................Texas State Railroad Jacksonville...........Cherokee Trace Drive-Thru Safari Tyler...........................................Azalea Home District Canton...............................Trade Days, First Mondays Sulphur Springs...............Hopkins County Courthouse Paris...................Red River Valley Veterans Memorial Pittsburg...........................Witness Park, Prayer Tower
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The Eagle
Northeast Texas Community College
May 4, 2017
EAST TEXAS
Local library museum shares scenes from the past BY RUSTI MCGONAGILL Staff Writer The Mount Pleasant Public Library became home to the Historical Museum in 2013. The unique museum displays the rich history of the city and the surrounding Titus County area. Walking into to space, I felt as though I had suddenly stepped through a time portal with each picture, artifact and display grabbing my interest and transporting me into the past. One of the first things I noticed was a replica of the Caddo Indian huts that were a part of the Titus County landscape in the 1800s. The outside of the hut looked similar to the Indian dwelling photographs that you would see in historical magazines. When I walked into the hut, there was a fire (faux of course), a mat, extra wood for the fire and some old pottery. It felt very real and made me appreciate modern conveniences. An array of Native American arrowheads, clay pots, bowls, pipes and primitive tools were displayed in cases hanging on the walls outside the hut. Moving on to the next historical era was the Civil War tent with a talking military mannequin that scared the dickens out of me, but was very informative. The figure, modeled after Lieutenant Harrison Barrow, sat at a desk in a tent with a bunk and bookshelf off to the side. When walking past the tent, Lt. Barrow opens his eyes and begins talking about the Civil War and the history of the conflict in Mount Pleasant and Titus County. Next to the tent, is a huge cardboard cutout of Henry Clay Thurston, the tallest man in the Civil War that is available for pictures behind the tent. The most impressive thing in the museum, however, was the cabin replica with a chicken coup attached to it. The cabin was equipped
with a bed, a rocking chair, a hutch and pictures of people who were here in Titus County during its earliest days. One being the ancestor of the children’s librarian, Jeanette McCoy, who helped bring the Historical Museum together. “I still come in and something will catch my eye and I’ll go ‘Wow, I didn’t realize that or I didn’t know that,’ it’s always something new,” said McCoy. There are displays on cotton, coal and the railroad industries that helped build our town and county. There is a display for areas around Mount Pleasant, such as Dellwood Park and the court house. There were ancestors of families that still live in the area, they might even be your or your neighbor’s ancestors. “It’s very connected to our community,” said McCoy. “It’s not just things that have been placed here. It’s actually the history of our community.” Not only are there plaques filled with interesting reading material, there is a video screen that plays four short videos telling about the railroad, Caddo Indian huts and the Civil War. It is a small space for a museum, but they were able to fit so much history into it. While browsing about, Marica Sanchez brought her daughter in to look around. “It’s amazing, my kids, they really like to be here,” said Sanchez. “Every time we come she wants to sign in and watch everything.” The exhibits will be traded for some that are in storage now, so I am interested in visiting again to see the new items. I learned a lot about my town’s history, and it was fascinating to see all this stuff that helped make Mount Pleasant and Titus County what it is today. I strongly encourage you to visit the Mount Pleasant Public Library Historical Museum. Whether you’re learning about your roots or just passing through, this museum is something enjoyable for all.
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The Mount Pleasant Library Museum is full of history from the local area. Above, a scene from a typical log cabin home in the mid to late 1800s. The musuem also offers an extensive collection of Indian artifacts and historical information about Native American culture in the Titus County area.
Stop off at Efurd’s Orchards where it’s always peachy BY STEPHANIE GARCIA Staff Writer
STAFF PHOTO
| NA’CHYNA ROGERS
Efurd’s orchard and roadside stand offers locally grown fruits and vegetable throughout the summer months.
When people think of Pittsburg, they think chicken, Hot Links and Efurd’s Orchards. Known simply as “Efurd’s”, the family owned and operated peach shed has grown significantly since it first started in 1972. It has become a staple to Pittsburg and fun place for people to visit throughout the year. It all started with a dream and a few peach trees, 700 to be exact, that were planted in their backyard. Mrs. Sandra Efurd said that they had originally started the business to send one of their sons away to college, but they didn’t get any peaches until after he graduated. John Hart Efurd planted the first peach trees in 1968 and since it takes about four years for peach trees to mature, he did not get any peaches until 1972. He and his sons then sold them
out of the bed of a truck on the side of Highway 271. From there, it flourished and thrived even through the heavy competition in such a small town. Something that had started as a small shed with dirt floors came to become one of Pittsburg’s most well-known places to visit. “We used to just be open three months out of the year with peaches from midMay to about July. Now with strawberry season at the end of March, peaches starting in mid-May and late peaches going until first week in September. After that we close for a little bit and open back up with pumpkins. So, we’re probably only closed about three or four month in the year,” owner, Amy Efurd told us. People from all over come to pick their own strawberries, blueberries and blackberries, but one of the more popular things is the homemade ice cream. “The ice cream has been a big seller,” Efurd said, “Children love it, the older
people like it, and I mean who doesn’t like ice cream?” She went on to tell us that it had grown from just one machine with two flavors, peach and strawberry, to eight flavors and multiple ice cream machines. They will have one or two people in the back, depending on how busy it is, cutting up the fruit that goes into making the delicious homemade ice cream. Sandra Efurd told us that she never thought it would be as big as it is, but she had always hoped it would. If you decide to make a trip out to Efurd’s, do not expect a modern store. The owners take great pride in keeping it rustic and letting it take customers back to a much simpler time. They love to watch people’s faces when they walk in and see all the different products and get the overall feel for this old timey peach shed. It is definitely a place to visit in the summer to pick some fruit and enjoy the ice cream on the porch.
Pittsburg Hot Links carries on longtime family tradition BY NA’CHYNA ROGERS Staff Writer When most people think of Pittsburg, they think about Witness Park and the Prayer Tower, Los Pinos and St. Rose Vineyard & Winery and the Texas Rural Heritage Museum. But, there is another famous spot in the small town and that place is the Pittsburg Hot Links restaurant. According to the restaurant’s website, Charlie Hasselback, “a man of German descent,” brought the hot link recipe to Camp County in 1897. The site says that Hasselback’s first location was on Main Street in a place called the “Old Maddox Building,” and the links were sold to cook at home. By 1918, the hot links were being cooked and served in the restaurant where people sat on wooden benches and ate the hot links on heavy market paper, along
with crackers and a special hot sauce. The links were sold two for a nickel, five for a dime and a dozen for a quarter. The website’s history says that in later years, Gene Warrick began processing the hot link recipe to sell in grocery stores. The Warrick family still run the business today. “Pittsburg Hot Link Restaurants, Inc. came into existence in 1982 and in its current location around the same time, but the hot links have been in our family beginning with our father’s parents and uncles in the early 1900s,” Sonya Barker, one of the owners, said. Over the years, people have learned to love and enjoy the hot links in their own unique way. “There are the ones who are appalled at the fact that someone would put ketchup on their hot links,” Barker said. “Then there are those who create a masterpiece with adding chili, onions,
cheese, ketchup, crackers.... and they swear that it’s the only way to eat hot links.” Pittsburg Hot Links has been around for many years, and with customers that sometimes line out the door, a packed dining area, and a friendly, hometown staff, it doesn’t take long to realize that this local eatery is all about family, caring for their customers and amazing food. “We hope that our customers know how much we care about them. We aim to please and want to make their visit with us exactly what they want it to be,” Barker said. “Our restaurant is not fancy, but we hope that everyone feels at home and is able to connect with us or other customers when they come in to eat.” With the welcoming management style of the Gene and Madeline Warrick Family, the customers always get that feel of home and amazing hot links any time of the day.
STAFF PHOTO
| NA’CHYNA ROGERS
The locally owned restaurant sells its famous links in grocery stores from Mount Pleasant to Dallas and beyond. But, most folks in East Texas like to eat them in the restaurant on butcher paper with lots of hot sauce.
“Listen to your customers, treat them like family. Keep it simple and consistent, the hard work was done many years ago,” Baker said. And, she quickly added that if they don’t do something right, they’ll hear about it the small town way. “If a customer is unhappy,
we are unhappy,” she said. “There are some customers who actually call mom and tell on us if they don’t like a change we make or if the line is too long. Pittsburg Hot Link Restaurant is located at 136 W. Marshall Street, in Pittsburg, TX. They are
open for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Open hours MondayWednesday 8am-6pm, Thursday-Saturday 8am9pm. For any more information call them at 903-856-5765 or email info@pittsburghotlink. com.
May 4, 2017
The Eagle
Northeast Texas Community College
Page 9
EAST TEXAS
Sólo otro día festivo
BY DANIEL YANEZ Editor-in-Chief
El Cinco de Mayo, muchas veces confundido con la Independencia de México, es una fiesta típicamente observada en México para conmemorar el aniversario del triunfo de Benito Juárez contra el ejército francés en la Batalla de Puebla en el año 1862. Sin embargo, el Cinco de Mayo es una celebración común en los Estados Unidos. Durante la guerra mexicana en la década de 1860, Napoleón de Francia decidió usar fuerza militar para establecer el gobierno francés en la patria mexicana. Aunque el ejército de Napoleón estaba preparado, no era rival para los militantes de Juárez. Hoy en día, la Batalla de Puebla comparte una similitud significativa a la Batalla de Saratoga durante la guerra de América por su independencia. En un punto decisivo en la guerra, Puebla capturo una victoria crucial. Al igual que el cuatro de julio, cinco de mayo, sin embargo, no marca el día de la independencia de México. Hoy en día el cinco de mayo se celebra mucho más en los Estados Unidos que en México, su país de origen. Suficientemente interesante, la independencia de los Estados Unidos, sirvió de inspiración a varias naciones oprimidas. En este día de celebración, muchas comunidades estadounidenses, ambas pequeñas y grandes, se iluminan en colores brillantes de rojo y amarillo, junto con colores de la bandera mexicana: rojo, blanco y verde. El aroma de tacos y tamales flota en el aire y el sonido del mariachi resuena con el sonido mexicano del grito y expresa el orgullo nacional. Desfiles y carrozas se alinean en las calles junto a vendedores, tiendas y personas. El Cinco de Mayo, como la mayoría de las celebraciones estadounidenses, es un tiempo de reuniones sociales y comunitarias. Pero, ¿por qué es este día de fiesta nacional mexicana ampliamente celebrado y reconocido en los Estados Unidos? Yo opino que simplemente es el amor americano por ir de fiesta. Sin embargo, los EE.UU. es una tierra de diversas culturas y patrimonio de múltiples líneas étnicas y geográficas. Muchos de los ciudadanos de los EE.UU. no sólo mantienen su himno nacional, sino también abrazan el tesoro de su historia, las tradiciones y el patrimonio. La cultura mesoamericana no es diferente, pero, es, o puede
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ser considerada, una de las influencias más grandes en los Estados Unidos. Centros urbanos con gran influencia mexicana a lo largo de la frontera suroeste y los estados con poblaciones chicanas en estados como Florida, Illinois y Nueva York demuestran y expresan los colores mexicanos en el cinco de mayo. Del mismo modo, las comunidades hispanas, las grandes y las pequeñas se unen y dan homenaje a su cultura y sus raíces mexicanas. Durante los eventos del activismo chicano la observancia del cinco de mayo creció en escala con el fin de promover el conocimiento y cultivar un movimiento de estilo de vida. Hoy en día, el cinco de mayo es una gran fiesta celebrada por los que se enorgullecen de una de las celebraciones más grandes fuera de México. Algunas de las festividades más grandes que marcan este aniversario mexicano tienen lugar en ciudades como Houston, Los Ángeles y Chicago. Por otro lado, en México, el Cinco de Mayo se observa
principalmente en el estado de Puebla. La fiesta no es reconocida por el gobierno federal mexicano por lo que muchas empresas y oficinas del gobierno permanecen abiertas durante ese día. En el estado de Puebla, el día es simplemente lleno de recreaciones de la batalla que ocurrió hace más de un siglo y medio. Actos festivos incluyen desfiles militares, pero en general, el cinco de mayo es igual que cualquier otro día. Por último, es importante denotar la diferencia entre el Cinco de Mayo y el dieciséis de septiembre. La última fecha marca la independencia y el punto de quiebra de dominio español en la patria mexicana, mientras que el cinco de mayo simboliza la importancia de una victoria improbable contra las fuerzas francesas. Aunque muchos estadounidenses a veces no entienden el significado de ambas fechas, los estadounidenses están dispuestos a participar en las festividades que denotan la cultura y el carácter de nuestros vecinos al sur de la frontera.
Farmer’s markets offer locally grown produce BY VANESSA NEVAREZ Staff Writer If you ever see a road sign that says FM and there’s nothing but farmland surrounding you, there’s a good chance you’re on a farm to market road. The roads are state funded highways that were originally used by farmers to transport their products for the Texas annual farmers market. Many small towns hold farmer’s markets that highlight a variety of home grown produce like fruits, yummy vegetables, mouthwatering meats, delicious cheeses and handmade goods. Mount Pleasant is scheduled to host their first one Tuesday, June 6, from 4 p.m. until 7 p.m. Northeast Agriculture Director Rene McCracken said, “The local market is a joint effort between the NTCC Agriculture Program, the Mount Pleasant Chamber of
Commerce, the city of Mount Pleasant and local farmers to bring locally raised products directly to the consumers in a beautiful downtown setting.” These marketplaces support the community and local farmers. Every year the farmer’s market brings a one of a kind experience to the public. They make people feel welcome with bright smiles and the outdoors greets them with the freshly grown veggies. Each stall and its vendor has merchandise and a unique style that attract people from the area. Last summer as many as 30 vendors came to sell their wares at the Mount Pleasant market. Farm owners have the opportunity to sell what they harvest, which gives them the chance to expand their businesses. Another reason to buy directly from local farmers is the environmental factor. When proper farming techniques are
applied, ranchers can produce food crops without damaging the earth. Instead of waiting for food in grocery stores to ripen or wasting money on rotten produce, why not walk on down to the local farmer’s market and get it fresh. These outdoor markets offer a healthy alternative to unhealthy processed foods and a friendly customer experience. These events, which is perfect for all members of the family, have become a place for locals and those who are just passing through to spend a day finding treasures. Such as breads, spices, jams, honey and all types of organic foods. With the summer sun and cool breeze the farmer’s market is certainly a place where you can enjoy a friendly atmosphere and spend a day with your family. For more info on the Mount Pleasant market, contact Mount Pleasant Chamber or McCracken at 903-434-8267.
SUMMER FUN
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Northeast Agriculture Direcctor Rene McCracken, left, visits with customers during the Mount Pleasant Farmer’s Market last fall. The college offers its farm grown vegetables and canned items at the market. The next Farmer’s Market begins June 6.
Spend a day at First Mondays KIERAN MARTIN Staff Writer The recent storms that passed through Canton and the surrounding areas caused devastating damage to the city. Now is the time more than ever to support smaller communities and aim for a bigger turnout at First Mondays. First Monday Trade Days is a monthly flea market in Canton, Texas, just outside of Tyler. The market is held on the Thursday through Sunday preceding the first Monday of each month. The market boasts a large variety of goods for purchase including furniture, antiques, collectables, cars, and animals. First Monday Trade Days began sometime in the 1850s where people of Van Zandt county would come to town to see the court proceedings and conduct business on the First Monday of the month as traveling was a luxury. Stray horses were often brought to Canton and auctioned off to the highest bidder. The market was collectively known as “Horse Monday” until it acquired its name that it has today. Soon the people would bring their crops, such as fresh produce, grain, and sugar cane syrup, and eventually vendors
WORD BANK Bikini Bottoms Camping Concerts Cookouts Fireworks Fishing
People Watching Picnics Roadtrips Snowcones Summer Heat Swimming
Tailgating Tan lines Theme Parks Tubing Vacation Volleyball
| DANIEL YANEZ
began selling tractors and exotic breeds of animals. Currently, First Monday Trade Days operates over 100 acres and provides space for over 6,000 vendors. There is convenient on-site parking, and offer free transportation to other First Monday areas. Just like the material items for sale, food is also abundant and varied. Popular favorites include freshly squeezed lemonade, smoke turkey legs, funnel cakes, sausage on a stick, and kettle corn. There are many people who religiously visit the market every month, but new visitors might like some advice such as: crowds on Thursday or Friday are less busy and there is more selection. Allow 5 - 8 hours to look around thoroughly and cover the entire grounds. Remember where you park, as it is easy to get lost in the maze of booths. First Monday Trade Days purports to be the largest and oldest continually operated flea market in the country where up to 100,000 shoppers will frequent the fair in a weekend. First Monday Trade Days is located off Highway 19 in Canton, Texas. Parking is available in the fields around First Mondays, averaging at $4 for the entire day.
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The Eagle
Northeast Texas Community College
May 4, 2017
EAST TEXAS
Northeast Texas is home of the piney woods BY DANIEL YANEZ, NUBIA SANCHEZ Editor-in-Chief, Staff Writer Texas boast many beautiful landscapes from east to west. Depending on where you live in the state, you will find that each region is amusing. Plains and plateaus line the area west of Dallas. El Capitan, a soaring 8,000 feet, is a poster peak for postcards. A sea of bluebonnets coats the Texas hill country from Austin to San Antonio. Beaches? We have those too. Further east though, reign the piney woods where thick East Texas forests line the highways and backyards of the loosely populated quarter of the state. One of many beautiful aspects of the state of Texas is its friendly hospitality but more so the scenery. After all, the state motto is Friendship. Unique to many other states, Texas has a reputation for summer and backyard fun whether that is a hike up a mountain slope or tubing down the Guadalupe. Here in Northeast Texas though, lakes and recreation seem to be like peanut butter and jelly. When the heat index rises it’s likely that you might consider the phrase jumping into a lake just to cool off. Luckily, Northeast Texas is home to the perfect amount of lakes usually within a short minute drive from your backyard. Picnicking on a shady cove might seem like a better option for those who aren’t water fanatics. Specific to this area is the tri-lake country made up of the Lake Cypress, Monticello and Bob Sandlin lakes. Caddo Lake, Daingerfield State Park, Lake Fork and the Lake Cooper State Park are but a stone throw away. Filled with catfish, bass, crappie and full of perch, these lakes have a wide variety of freshwater fishing sport for anglers. As long as you have your fishing license you are all set. The Daingerfield Park located in the small historic town of Daingerfield is a fun park to spend some time in. The 80-acre park’s features were built during The Great Depression in the late 1930’s by two Civilian Conservation Corps companies. The Daingerfield State Park, which is located only 22 minutes from the Northeast campus, is the place to visit. Entrance fee is only $4 for adults daily and you get a parking sticker for the day. Admissions for children less than 12 years of age is free. To stay longer, you can purchase a campsite for your RV or camping tent. When you bring a tent you may hike in the camping area for only $6 nightly. If you plan to stay and don’t have an RV or tent, no problem, the park offers some cabins that can also be rented. The RV campsites fees range from $20-$25. In the park there are some hiking trails to run, walk or ride a bike. There is docks were people fish and there is some equipment that can be rented. Some of the
equipment that is available to rent and use in the lake are paddle boats, canoes, and kayaks. To me personally the paddle boats are the best to enjoy with some friends. Life jackets come with the rental of the floating equipment. The scenery of the lake, trees, and hiking trails are great for taking pictures. The lake is also available to swim in although there are no lifeguards. The park is family and pet friendly. Another nearby state park would be Lake Bob Sandlin just south of Mount Pleasant. This park offers similarities to the Daingerfield Park except Bob Sandlin’s lake is much larger than Daingerfield’s. You can do so much more in this lake such as bringing your boat out for fishing, tubing or just to ride around. The entrance fee is the same as Dangerfield’s. There is a major difference between these two parks with their cabin prices. Bob Sandlin’s RV campsites are cheaper and provide the water and electricity except Daingerfield’s provides a sewer. Further south, the Angelina National Forest, Davy Crockett National Forest, Sabine National Forest and Lake Sam Rayburn border the southern edge of northeast Texas. Named after the legendary pioneer, Davy Crockett National Forest features 160,000 acres of East Texas Woodlands and was proposed a National Forest by President Franklin Roosevelt in the fall of 1936. The forest offers hunting, camping, canoeing, boating, fishing and many other recreational activities. Tent and RV campsites are available for small fees. RV campsites offer access to water, electricity, and sewer. These parks feature many walking and hiking trails along the hillsides of the piney woods and provide ample viewing sites for wildlife and fauna. The area is an exceptional habitat for white-tailed deer, squirrels, raccoons as well as numerous bird species. The offerings vary by parks. With spring beginning and the summer heat rising, many Texans will look for a way to escape the indoors and get some sunshine. These places are just the way to go. For more information on Texas state parks visit tpwd.texas. gov or to texascccparks.org.
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| DANIEL YANEZ
Above, the view from the shore of Dogwood Park on Lake Cypress Springs. The lake is a popular recreational spot for fishing and water sports. Below, Dogwood Park offers a fun day for picnics and swimming throughout the summer months. Families can enjoy plenty of fresh air and sun in a quiet setting away from the crowds of larger parks.
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| DANIEL YANEZ
Animal lovers, head on over to the Tyler Zoo NUBIA SANCHEZ Staff Writer Looking for a place to see animals from the Safari and other places from the world? A great place to take a road trip to is Tyler, TX. Tyler is only an hour and a half away from Mount Pleasant. The Caldwell Zoo is located in the outskirts of Tyler and is just the place to hang out with family and friends as well look at the different animal species and learn about them. The zoo provides free parking and a picnicking area. For adults the entrance fee is $12.95 but if you come with a group of friends of 10 persons or more the entrance is $10.36. The zoo experience is totally worth the fee amount. You get to see animals from different places in the world that you do not see on a daily basis. Animals from the Safari are all in one specific area at the zoo which includes zebras, lions, rhinos, giraffes, monkeys and elephants. From the walking trails you can get a good view of these creatures. The marine creatures that are available to see are some fishes from the coral reefs as well as penguins from the Antarctic. If you are a bird fanatic there is a building just for you. The various colorful, feathery, exotic birds roam free inside the building. You can also
feed them for $1.00 and hold them if the birds let themselves. Flamingos have a mini pond to themselves and as you walk along the trail you can see the pink birds gathered around. Other exotic birds can also be seen throughout the park. Reptiles? A building is dedicated just for the cold blooded snakes and lizards. And there is a swamp just for crocodiles, alligators, and turtles. For tortoises there is a small area for them to walk and lay in the dirt. North American animals like the black bear, wild turkeys and bison are also on display. These are some of the wild animals that you get to experience while you visit Caldwell Zoo. Another wild experience can be at the East Texas Zoo & Gator Park located in Grand Saline. Grand Saline is only an hour and 26 minutes south of Mount Pleasant. General Admission is $8. The park offers concession food as well as alligator meat and a picnicking area. The picnicking area is near a pond where you can experience seeing ferrets, turtles, and alligators. Your experience at this zoo and park can be fun and cool. Visitors are allowed to feed the alligators and get a close up view of them. Animals that can be seen are from Africa, America, Asia, and Australia. The exotic creatures are keel bill toucans, syke’s monkeys, red foot tortoises, lemurs, and of course alligators just to name a few.
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| NUBIA SANCHEZ
The Tyler Zoo is a great place to spend a day with family and friends. the zoo has a number of exotic animals to enjoy. These animals are unique because they are not normally seen in other zoos. These are some of the nearby zoos in east Texas. Both are family friendly and cool to hang out with some friends this summer. So carpool with your friends and family and
Get in touch with nature
come and enjoy seeing some of the wildest animals in the world. And, since it’s close to home, you can see it all in one day. For more information on the Caldwell Zoo go to caldwellzoo.org and for the East Texas Zoo & Gator Park go to easttexaszoo.com.
May 4, 2017
The Eagle
Page 11
Northeast Texas Community College
NEWS Northeast science students attend events
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Emma Shaw, above, is one of only 15 students nationwide who were selected as Guistwhite Scholars.
PHI THETA KAPPA
Student chosen as Guistwhite Scholar Special to The Eagle Emma Shaw, a sophomore at Northeast Texas Community College from Omaha, has been selected as one of only 15 students nationwide to be named a 2017 Phi Theta Kappa Guistwhite Scholar. The honor includes a $5,000 scholarship to be used toward baccalaureate studies and a commemorative medallion. Shaw will be honored with the other recipients on the main stage at Phi Theta Kappa’s national convention in Nashville this April Guistwhite Scholars are chosen based on academic achievement, leadership accomplishments and engagement in Phi Theta Kappa Programs. The 15 recipients for 2017 were selected by a panel of independent judges from more than 1,800 applicants to receive this scholarship, the second highest offered by Phi Theta Kappa. Shaw is a Presidential Scholar in Honors Northeast and has won numerous state and regional awards. Shaw is also a vice-president for the Alpha Mu Chi chapter and recently served as lead editor for the chapter’s Case Study Challenge offered by USA Today newspaper. She was a recipient of the Texas STAR Scholarship, a statewide Phi Theta Kappa Scholarship, she is the first Texas Heritage Bank Scholar at NTCC, she served as director of props for the Honors Northeast annual film, and she is a member of Who’s Who Among American Community College Students. She is the daughter of Ron and Lori Shaw. “I was so happy to learn that Emma was selected as a Guistwhite Scholar. She is a very active member in our Phi Theta Kappa chapter
and her academic work through Honors has been outstanding,” Dr. Melissa Fulgham, advisor for NTCC’s Alpha Mu Chi chapter of Phi Theta Kappa, said. Dr. Andrew Yox, Honors Director, pointed out a particular example of Shaw’s success at NTCC – her essay entitled “Blind to Brown.” She earned third place in the statewide Caldwell competition for the work, which was nominated by the Honors Committee as NTCC’s top essay of the year. She presented a paper, which examined racial integration in Northeast Texas, at the 2016 meeting of the National Collegiate Honors Council in Seattle. Shaw is the sixth Guistwhite Scholar from NTCC. Previous recipients include Angelica Fuentes, Kayleah Cumpian, Noah Griffin, Matthew Jordan, and Isaac Griffin. The program is named in honor of the late Dr. Jack Guistwhite and his widow, Margaret Guistwhite. Northeast Texas Community College students have won six Guistwhite Awards since 2011 including Isaac Griffin in 2012, Noah Griffin in 2014, Matthew Jordan in 2014, Kayleah Cumpian in 2015, Angelica Fuentes in 2016, and now Emmalea Shaw in 2017. All six Guistwhite winners of NTCC were high-GPA Presidential Scholars who attained leadership roles in the feature-length-film productions of Honors Northeast. All were active members of Phi Theta Kappa, and two were regional leaders. There are three main criteria for earing the Guistwhite Award: Outstanding academic achievement constitutes the first criterion. Leadership and engagement in Phi Theta Kappa follow.
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Students attend 2 + 2 Articulation Day at TAMU at College Station Eight Northeast Texas Community College BioMedical Sciences majors attended the BIMS 2+2 Articulation Day on the campus of TAMU at College Station in February. The students were accompanied by Northeast faculty members Dr. Kathy Carter, Dr. Drew Murphy and Dr. Mary Hearron. The group met with representatives of the Colleges of Veterinary Medicine and the College of Medicine about requirements for transfer into Texas A&M University and admission into professional school. NTCC is one of 10 community colleges in the state with an articulation agreement with the College of Veterinary
Medicine’s Biomedical Sciences Department for automatic admission into the program for NTCC students that meet the criteria. Students attending this year’s trip were: Brenda Godoy, Myrka Vargas, Oriana Castro, Chelsea Nix, Cesia Posada, Emily Martof, Angie Contreras, and Cody Jackson. The students had the opportunity to tour both the new veterinary buildings and the medical school gross anatomy laboratory. For more information about NTCC’s 2+2 Articulation Agreement and the BIMS program contact Dr. Drew Murphy or Dr. Mary Hearron.
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BioChem Pre-Professionals judge Region VIII ESC Science Fair The Bio-Chem Pre-Professional Student Organization (BCP2) served as judges for the Region VIII ESC Science Fair held in February. Over 200 projects in the categories of Biological/Behavioral Sciences, Chemical and Physical Sciences and Inventions that were submitted by students throughout the region in grades 4th through high school were evaluated by the NTCC Bio-Chem students. Student judges spoke with each science fair participant and evaluated each project based on the use of the scientific
method, data collection, knowledge of the project and overall presentation. NTCC students participating as judges included: Cesia Posadas, Elias Reyes, Karla Ochoa, Cody Jackson, Irving Flores, Abigail Trejo, Marisol Bautista, Joseph Rowland, Myrka Vargas, Brenda Godoy, Oriana Castro, Chelsea Nix, Emily Martof, Angelica Contreras, Presley McClendon, Emma Shaw, Jorge Sanchez, Lindsey Hudson, and Chelsea Carroll. Faculty sponsors for BCP2 are Dr. Drew Murphy and Dr. Mary Hearron.
STUDENT SUCCESS
SOCIAL WORK
NTCC students donate to women’s shelter
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The Northeast Texas Community College social work program students recently traveled to Rahab Retreat and Ranch in Kilgore. The students raised money to purchase and donate 1,000 rolls of toilet paper to the women’s shelter. Rahab Retreat and Ranch is a shelter for women who are struggling with substance abuse or those who have been victims of domestic violence or sex trafficking.
| DANIEL YANEZ
College Forward hosted 3 Financial Aid Workshops this semester in hopes students would apply for FAFSA 2017-18 in preparation for the upcoming year. NTCC received 324 FAFSA applications of those 251, 77% are part of Student Success Services. CoFo provided two $500 Fall Scholarships for those who filed their FAFSA. Adrian Rodriguez and Malori Hogue were the two lucky drawing winners. College Forward also provided 10 $200 summer scholarship awards. The requirements were to complete a Foundation Scholarship application and register for the summer semester. Our recipients were Anna Perez, Cecilia Alaniz, Tyler Bernard, Isidoro Hernandez, Daniel Almazan, Angela Garza, Irma Trujillo, Alejandro Alvarez, Lisa Ibarra, and Meztli Luna. “We want our students to be proactive and responsible for their college preparation. The FAFSA application takes less than 30 minutes to apply,” said Erika Garza. “Students need to be aware other documentation may be required. We recommend students to view their NTCC email for Financial Aid notifications.”
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The Eagle
Northeast Texas Community College
May 4, 2017
NEWS STUDENT AWARDS
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Featured in the photo above are the Northeast students receiving The President’s Academic Award. See below for a list of the students who won the award.
Featured in the photo above are the Northeast students receiving The Spirit of Northeast Award. See below for a list of the students who won the award.
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Featured in the photo above are the Northeast students receiving The Horizon Award. See below for a list of the students who won the award.
Featured in the photo above are the former Northeast students receiving The Distinguished Alumnus Award. See below for a list of the former students who won the award.
Faculty Student Awards Banquet celebrates 25 years The Northeast Texas Community College Faculty Senate held its 25th Annual Student Awards Banquet Thursday night at the Region 8 service center. This annual event allows the faculty to acknowledge exceptional students and alumni for their contributions to NTCC and beyond. The President’s Academic Excellence Award recognizes students who have excelled academically. Those receiving this award included: Leslie Blann Oriana Castro Melonie Chamness Tammy Christianson Norma Contreras Katelin Cooper Lily Cox Dalton Crosson Chesney Davis Jayme Davis William Fox
Benjamin Glanzer Brenda Godoy Francis (Frank) Hall Isidoro Hernandez Jade Lewis Venson McGary Yuridia Moreno Jordan Delaney Smith William Wilson Daniel Yanez
The Spirit of Northeast Award goes to students who have made full use of their college experiences to maximize their academic potential. Those receiving this award included: Nadia Ballarin D. Balough Melonie Chamness Brenda Driggers Claire Fitch Jaime Flores Oscar Gonzalez Francis (Frank) Hall Wendy Harbour Laney Jordan Rachel Jordan Wycliffe Kenani Kassy Martinez
Presley McClendon Dylan McConnell Ruber Medina Kenzie Messer Melody Mott Deborah Pritchet Shelly Pugh Carrol Reed Heather Short Erichica Sullivan Aaron Taylor Rigoberto Villa Jocelyn Walker
The Horizon Award recognizes students who have significantly contributed their time and energy to the college through their outstanding achievements or success. Those receiving this award included:
The Distinguished Alumnus Award goes to former students who have brought pride to the college through their outstanding achievements or success. Those receiving this award included:
Nathalie Alvarado Nadia Ballarin Tyler Bernard Iesha Fluellen Corey Fyfe Cody Jackson Tiffany Johnson Thomas Kay Beverly King
Ron Bristow Dr. Marco Chavez Kevin Chumbley, P.E. Betsy Gooding Dr. Karl Greer Linda Hardy Tiffany Hearron John Herron
Jade Lewis Samantha McCracken Ryan-Rose Mendoza Melody Mott April Reed Alecia Spurlin John Paul Villegas Cassidy Watkins Kayla Lynn Willeford
Martin Holden Dr. Will Hooks Amanda Hutchings Meredith Joubet Lisa Lageschaar Dr. Alex Villalobos Shemetric Williams
Psi Beta holds suicide prevention event BY IESHA FLUELLEN Staff Writer On Saturday April 22, NTCC’s Psi Beta organization recently hosted their second annual 5K Color Walk to Fight Suicide event. Members of the campus and community got involved in the campaign and donated to the Local Suicide Prevention and the NTCC Psi Beta Transfer Scholarship. Before the walk began, participants gathered in the foyer of the Whatley Center to hear a number of guest speakers share their views of the importance when it comes to suicide prevention. “We were fortunate this year to have three military veterans address the unique situations military veterans face,” said Karyn Skaar, an associate professor of psychology. “Eli Smith, Army Veteran, spoke via Skype as he is walking the perimeter of the country to raise awareness about PTSD and suicide in veterans. Michael P. Brown, Army and Marine Corps Veteran and NTCC student, and Rusty Brooks, Marine Corps veteran, inspired the audience with their stories of resilience.” Michael P. Brown, having served in the Army and Marine Corps expressed his concerns from the point of view of someone who has
STAFF PHOTO|IESHA FLUELLEN
Psi Beta members gather after the Sucide Prevention program for a walk to bring awareness to the issue of suicide. The group’s theme this year was “Ask, Listen.” been affected through people he has known. “Suicide affects everyone. Not just the person who does it or is thinking about it,” said Brown. “It can have a life-long effect on friends and family. It’s important that if someone has these thoughts, they get help immediately.” Brooks, a former Northeast Student, shared what it was like to struggle with suicidal thoughts and how he overcame that dark period of his life. “You have to be very cautious about what you put inside your head because what goes up there eventually takes over you,” said Brooks. “I realized how I would be remembered if I had gone through with that. The last thing I ever wanted was to be known as a quitter. So, I started doing things I never thought I’d be able to do. I went skydiving, because I was
always afraid to jump out of a plane. I started talking to people like I am today about my obstacles. I ran races and got involved as much as I could.” Linda Howard, an RN at Titus Regional Medical Center, finished up the program by addressing the signs and symptoms of suicidal ideation, what an individual can do to help, and how to live in the aftermath. Latasha Triplett, past Psi Beta president and founder of the event, said, “The best thing a person can do if ever faced with a suicide related situation is to ask & listen.” This was the second year Psi Beta has hosted this event and it has noticeably been growing. “Last year we had 27 walkers register, this year we had more than twice that many,” said Beverly King, current vice presidentwww for Psi Beta.
May 4, 2017
The Eagle
Northeast Texas Community College
Page 13
ENTERTAINMENT
r Wonde
Baywatch - May 25
e2 n u J an
Wom
laxy a G e h of t s n a i d Guar l. 2 - May 5 Vo
Pirates of the Carribean: Dead Men Tell No Tales - May 26
Spider-M
an: Hom ecoming July 5
The Wall -
May 12
King Arthur: Legend of the Sword - May 12 Everything, Everything - May 19 47 Meters Down - June 16 Transformers: The Last Knight - June 23 Despicable Me 3 - June 30 War of the Planet of Apes - July 14 Valerian - July 21
It’s all about fitness and health Learning that life is everything RESTAURANT REVIEW
CRITICAL REVIEW
BY STEPHANIE GARCIA
BY NA’ CHYNA ROGERS
Staff Writer
Staff Writer
Downtown Pittsburg has been pretty much the same for as long as I can remember. Every once in a while something new will pop up, but that doesn’t happen very often. So when Mainstreet Gym and Market opened up, it was an immediate hit for the town. It brought something totally new and different to the downtown area. The Gym and Market takes up two buildings that are right next to each other. One side is the gym and the other the market and restaurant. I had already signed up with the gym, but had yet to try the food. Recently, some fellow Eagle Staff members and I decided we would go see what all the rave was about. Well, let me tell you, the rave was right. The food was amazing and the prices are not bad either. The owners wanted something that would be beneficial to the gym members so the choices are all healthy and use organic ingredients. They mostly have different sandwiches in their lineup of food, but from what I tried and heard, they are all delicious. My favorite is probably the turkey sandwich. It has turkey, Swiss cheese, spinach, tomatoes and avocado. A close second for me would probably be the peanut butter sandwich with bananas and local honey. They also offer ICON meals, which are prepped meals that are healthy and just need to be heated up. It’s a great option if you want to prepare a meal, but don’t have time to actually “prep.” Not only is the food good, but the smoothies they mix up are absolutely to die for. It is the
I’ve read a lot of books in my lifetime, and many of the best ones have played like films inside my head. Every sentence seems to float off the page and become a movie script. While I was reading Everything, Everything by Nicola Yoon, things were a little different this time. I felt like I was actually there within the story. While reading this book, I felt a wide array of emotions; happiness, sadness, excitement, fear and much more. This is not your average love story that ends with someone dying or almost dying. Everything, Everything is much deeper than that. This book isn’t just about a boy and a girl falling in love. It’s about a mother and daughter relationship that makes the reader question a lot of things about life. In the story, two teenagers fall in love, one who is extremely sick and is not allowed outside of her house, sound familiar? Yes, this story is much like the famous case of the Bubble Boy who had a similar disease, but instead Madeline “Maddy” Whittier
perfect thing to grab after a workout in the gym. My current favorite smoothie is the “Vincent Mango.” As the name suggest, it is a mango smoothie, but also includes orange juice, goji berry, and pineapple. I’m excited to try the some of the other smoothies they have. Along with sandwiches and smoothies, the market also sells coffee, protein bars and a variety of energy drinks. Some of the things that you can pick up at the market are Kombucha, mineral water and sodas with pure cane sugar. As for the gym side, the membership has a lot of perks. Not only does it have nice, new equipment, but members also have access to personal trainers and different classes like yoga, HIIT (high intensity interval training), Zumba and spin class. The staff is so nice and willing to help and answer any questions you may have. The Mainstreet Gym and Market has definitely brought something new and different to Pittsburg. I would highly recommend going to get lunch or a smoothie if you are in Pittsburg or if you are looking for a new gym to join. Hey, just grab a sandwich and a smoothie then head on next door and burn it all off.
doesn’t live in a bubble. All she has is a glass house with air filters, an overprotective mother, her nurse and the new boy who just moved in next door. She also has a goal to finally go to a place that she has been dreaming about, the ocean. While reading this book, expect to experience every emotion there is to feel. From the beginning of the story, and every page after, it just gets better and better to the point that you cannot put the book down. You must keep reading. This story takes you through so many twist and turns, that when you get to the last page that says, “The End,” you continue looking for more pages because you just know that it can’t end there. I highly recommend Everything, Everything. There are so many life
lessons that can be learned while reading this book. Although I must admit I didn’t think about most of them until I was finished reading, but then I began to think about everything I had just read and about all the things that I needed to learn about life. The main message of this story is to never let anything hold you back, regardless. If there is something holding you back, you can do anything that you set your mind to do. It’s all right to take a risk, just remember that all the things you do will change you for the better. Everything, Everything tells you just that and also to do things that will make you happy. And lastly and more importantly, try something that is out of your comfort zone. And, for those who loved the book there will be added excitment on May 19 when the movie will be in theaters everywhere. The film is directed by Stella Meghie, Amandla Stenberg will be playing Madeline and Nick Robinson will be playing the boy next door named Olly. Even if you don’t get the chance to go see it, read the book.
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Northeast Texas Community College
CAMPUS LIFE
STAFF PHOTO
| DANIEL YANEZ
Above: A Bareback Rider clings to the rope as the bronc kicks the mud in the air in an attempt to throw the rider off and into the mud, while Kyle Crow rides up behind him, so he can help him off when the time comes. Right: A participant of the kids rodeo races around a barrel on his stick horse. Every year, the rodeo team hosts a kids rodeo, and allows special needs students to come and experience some of the events that would happen in a real rodeo.
STAFF PHOTO
| DANIEL YANEZ
“It’s kind of a humbling moment for evereybody.” -Skylar Hunnicutt
STAFF PHOTO
| DANIEL YANEZ
Grady DuVall and Brody Barnes helps one of the rodeo participants hold onto the barrel as it bounces up and down, so the boy would be able to experience what it might be like to ride an actual bull.
STAFF PHOTO
| DANIEL YANEZ
Luis Lahoz holds a little girl so he can teach her how to throw a rope around a bull. The little girl ducks her head to be sure that the rope doesn’t hit her.
STAFF PHOTO
| DANIEL YANEZ
Kids from all over the area travel to the Northeast Rodeo Arena to watch the rodeo students compete against one another in bull riding, bronc riding, barrel racing and many other events. This is an annual event that the rodeo team hosts.
STAFF PHOTO
| DANIEL YANEZ
Barrel racer Bracie Beene leads her horse around the barrel as she tries to get around it as fast as she can to get the fastest time that she can.
May 4, 2017
The Eagle
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Northeast Texas Community College
SPORTS
STAFF PHOTO|NA’CHYNA ROGERS
Above- Kyle Moos catches a throw from pitcher Chandler Dean striking out a Panola player during the bottom of the forth inning.
STAFF PHOTO|DANIEL YANEZ
Left- Taylor Barber is ready to make a play on first in the bottom of the third during a recent game against Panola.
BASEBALL
Eagles move closer to playoffs BY NA’CHYNA ROGERS Staff Writer In the past month, the Northeast Eagles baseball team have played 18 games, with an 8-10 record, and are still fighting for postseason action. The Eagles have yet to secure a spot in the playoffs, but Head Baseball Coach Shane Wedd said it is still a possibility for the team. “We are one game behind Angelina, with three games to play against Bossier Parish Community College this weekend,” he said. “There are lots of scenarios that can play out for us to make it to playoffs.” Although the team’s postseason fate still hangs, the head coach said the goal for the upcoming BPCC series is winning the first game. “We just need to control what we
can control, which is how we play the game,” he said. Northeast faced Angelina College in their most recent three-game series, finishing with a 2-1 record. In game 1, Angelina dominated the scoreboard, racking up 13 runs compared to Northeast’s 3. The Eagles snagged an early lead in the first inning with a sacrifice fly by Justin Bundy. But Angelina could not be contained in the third, picking up 6 runs and securing the lead for good. Northeast collected two more runs, one in the fourth and in the sixth, but their efforts proved to be too late for a victory. The team came back in the following games, pulling out 2 wins late in the games. Northeast’s Hunter Thomas secured a win for the team in game 2. In a backand-forth affair, the Eagles were down 3-2 in the bottom
of the seventh, but scored two runs off of a walk-off error by Thomas. Sophomore Will Dawson collected the win for the team, pitching 1 inning. He gave up zero runs, one hit, and walked none. The Eagles finished the series against Angelina in a winning fashion, coming from behind to snag a 10-7 win. Entering the bottom of the seventh, 7-2, bats came to life for the team. Chandler Dean scored on an error and a hit by Darien Simms boosted the team to 7-4. Brady Batten knocked out a two-run homer, bringing the team within one run of Angelina. Justin Bundy and Kyle Mold followed with solo home runs, giving the team the lead. Batten once again batted big for the team brining in the final two runs of the game with a double to left field.
With a 18-24 record overall this season, Wedd said the team has found strength in a number of the players. “We have had a lot of players stand out this spring,” the head coach said. “We’ve had great leadership by our sophomores Brady Batten, Jarod Bayless, and Justin Bundy.” The team will wrap up the season this weekend in a series against Bossier Parish. Although their playoff fate is still unknown, Wedd said the team still has some juice left. “I love how this group is never out of the fight. They just keep coming at you,” he said. “They would never know it by the way they come to the field each day with positive attitudes.” The Eagles will be playing their last two games against Bossier College away this Thursday and home on Saturday.
STAFF PHOTO|NA’CHYNA ROGERS
Pitcher Max Martinez Panola pitched two innings, giving up four hits, two strikeouts, three runs and three earned runs.
STAFF PHOTO|DANIEL YANEZ
A bullrider performs during NTCC’s annual Kid’s Rodeo. The athletes performed for children around the area. The athletes were humbled about all the smiles on kids faces.
RODEO
Rodeo brings season to a close BY KENZIE MESSER Managing Editor Before closing their season with their last competitive meet at Wharlteon County Junior College, they recently hosted their annual kid’s rodeo. Special needs students traveled from schools in the area to experience what it would be like to participate in some of the events that would take place at an actual rodeo. Members from the team set up simulations for the kids to ride bulls, barrel race, rope, and other things. After
the special needs rodeo, the rodeo team put on a rodeo for the students, so they would be able to experience what a real rodeo was like. “It’ real important to the sport of rodeo,” Head Rodeo Coach Skylar Hunnicutt said. “It promotes knowledge about the sport of rodeo because a lot of kids don’t know that much about it. The best part about it is you get two or three hundred elementary school kids come out and see it so they can get to know what rodeo is and get interested in something.
The more people who you have that are interested, the better the sport becomes.” Not only did the rodeo team enjoy this event because of the exposure, but they also enjoyed it because they were humbled by the smiles across the special needs children’s faces. “It’s kind of a humbling moment for everybody,” Hunnicutt said. “It makes you thankful for your blessings. The kids were already talking about coming back next year. It makes not only their day, but their year.”
To see if the Eagle baseball team makes it to playoffs follow them @NTCC_Baseball & also follow @NTCC_TheEagle on Twitter
STAFF PHOTO
| DANIEL YANEZ
Northeast Women’s soccer players, Yaya (Dior) Mbengue, Ana Ramirez, Yarahi Hernandez and Jacquelin Ramirez signed to join Soccer Athletic Programs at four year universities. Jacqueline Ramirez will be signing with Angelo State University, Yaya Mbengue will become a part of the Rollins College program, Yarahi Hernandez and Ana Ramirez will both be attending Bryan College. #womenssoccer #athletics #ntcc #goeagles
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The Eagle
Northeast Texas Community College
May 4, 2017
SPORTS
Nadia Ballarin Cervignano del Friuli, Italy Age: 20 Before coming to NTCC, she had attended Foreman High School in Foreman, Arkansas as a foreign exchange student. It was there that during her junior year, her team won the state championship in softball. During her senior year, she attended Trinity Christian School in Texarkana, Arkansas.
Daniela Azuaje Barquisimeto, Venezuela Age: 17 She had competed in her state team as well as a national team from Venezuela before attending NTCC. Despite her young age, she has always strived for her goals when it came to academics and softball.
BY IESHA FLUELLEN
Staff Writer Freshmen, Emily Burgos (Outfield) and Daniela Azuaje (3rd Base) have made quite the impression on the field when it comes to their individual skill and determination. Nadia Ballarin (Shortstop) is a Sophomore who values the support of her teammates and coaches. For Azuaje, the idea of being far from Venezuela was a concern for her, but she seems to have had a smooth transition into being a student for NTCC. “Well, this has been a dream for me so this year has been amazing,” said Azuaje. “Although we had struggled this season, I still had a great time. The coaches and teammates were exceptional and they really help me a lot. I’m so thankful for that. Being here is giving me opportunities to have a good future. I thought it was going to be hard for me in school because English is my second language, but the professors and all the students have helped me out a lot.” As for Burgos, she had a very different experience when coming to NTCC. When she was first recruited onto Northeast’s softball team, she only knew common phrases in English. “When I first got here, I didn’t understand anything anyone was saying, but a few weeks later, I learned English. I learned it pretty fast and my friends helped me.” Ballarin is preparing for life after NTCC as she spends her last few days on campus. She feels like her time spent on the team has taught her valuable lessons that she can apply to her future. “I have learned so much during my time here. When I leave this softball program, I know that I will be prepared for whatever life throws at me.” At every home game this season, the flags of their countries would fly high alongside the U. S. flag and the Texas flag.
Emily Burgos Olavarria, Argentina Age: 19 Prior to NTCC, she had played for the national of Argentina. While doing this, she has had the opportunity to travel to differnt parts of the world. During her time with the national team of Argentina, her team competed in the World Series.
Lady Eagles Finish Season With Hope BY IESHA FLUELLEN
Staff Writer It’s no secret that this semester, NTCC’s Lady Eagles softball team has had its fair share of successes and defeats. Although this may be the case, one thing’s for certain. And that’s the fact that just like every other athletic program at NTCC, when the going gets tough, the tough gets going. “No doubt it was a hard season, from day one we faced many challenges,” said Head Softball Coach, Jessica Keith. “But, Nadia Ballarin said it best “I know that when I leave NTCC and this softball program I am ready for whatever life throws at me. Things were hard but it was so worth it”. That explains our year I guess, we went through so many hard times that we don’t know why
now, but that its preparing us for our future.” As for Assistant Softball Coach, Sara Lankford, she believes that the team has a lot of potential. “Obviously it wasn’t the season we had in mind,” said Lankford. “Our team was better than what our record showed, I believe. We had some missed opportunities at the plate and some timely errors that cost us. This team went through a lot of adversity from the beginning all the way till the end. For example, by the end of the season we were short put in off the bench.” Despite the challenges the team faced, Lankford admired the amount of dedication shown by the athletes. “Overall we had a great group for student athletes who worked hard for us day in and day out, on and off the field. Although this season
is over, I’m looking forward to next year and seeing the talent we brought in go to work,” said Lankford. Both coaches are not letting this season get the best of them. Instead, they’re getting the best of the season. They know they have a strong team and are ready to keep moving forward. “Thought on next year year;” said Keith. “We have 22 new girls ready for the challenge to get back to the region tournament. That is your goal, post season, so when it doesn’t happen of course you’re disappointed. But that disappointment has been fuel for the summer and preparation for the new season.” The players are also looking at this season and their time with the team in a positive light. After all, at the end of the day it’s not about
the experience, it’s what you can take from it. “My teammates have had such a positive impact on me,” said Sophomore, Kassy Skinner. “They’ve helped me become a better person and I’ve developed lifelong friendships with them.” It’s clear to see that the players get so much more out of being part of the team. “I believe that this program helps us get prepared for what the future may throw at us,” said Freshman softball player, Julianna Valdez. “Being part of this team has taught me so much already and I believe that the things I learn here will benefit me in the long run.” The coaches and the players will not let anything hold them back from their goals. Their preparation for the future of their team is only just beginning.
STAFF PHOTO|IESHA FLUELLEN
Morgan Robinson preparing to make a pitch during the Lady Eagle’s last game of the season.