The Eagle - Issue 4, Spring 2018

T he E agle ntcceagleonline.com

Volume 35 Issue 8

Thursday May 3, 2018

NORTHEAST TEXAS COMMUNITY COLLEGE

SCHOLARSHIP

NTCC students receive national scholarship

High School and is considering transferring to Cornell University. A future lawyer and politician as well as Presidential Honors Scholar, Alicia serves as president of NTCC’s Phi Theta Kappa chapter, the NTCC Speech and Debate Club, and the Honors Student Council.

A member of the Sigma Kappa Delta (English Honor Society) and Psi Beta (Psychology Honor Society), she has been active on campus and volunteers in the community. Her research on women in politics has been published and she has presented workshops at the Texas State Historical Association as well as the Phi Theta staff photo | daniel yanez Kappa International Convention. Named a 2017 Leader of Promise, she has also won the Jack Kent Cooke scholarship recipients Alicia Cantrell and Brenda Godoy were recently honored with their awards during the April board meeting. Pictured are PTK Adviser Dr. See Jack Kent Cooke on pg. 2 Melissa Fulgham, Honors Director Dr. Andrew Yox and President Dr. Ron Clinton.

Special to the Eagle

Alicia Cantrell and Brenda Godoy, students at Northeast Texas Community College, are two of just 47 recipients of the Jack Kent Cooke Foundation’s prestigious Undergraduate Transfer Scholarship. This highly competitive national scholarship will provide these two local recipients with up to $40,000 annually for a maximum of three years to complete their bachelor’s degrees.

Nearly 2,500 students applied for the Cooke Undergraduate Transfer Scholarship this year.

The foundation evaluated each submission based on academic ability, persistence, leadership, and service to others.

Cantrell graduated from Mount Vernon COMMUNITY SERVICE

PHI THETA KAPPA

Godoy wins top scholarships Special to the Eagle

staff photo

| daniel yanez

NTCC students helped place pinwheels in recognition of National Child Abuse Month in April. Several Northeast students serve as CASA child advocates.

Students become CASA volunteers

By McKay Patrick Staff Writer

Brenda Godoy, a student at Northeast Texas Community College, has received two of the nation’s top scholarships recognizing outstanding academic achievement among college students.

Godoy is one of 20 students to be named to the All-USA Academic Team and will receive a $5,000 scholarship.

The All-USA program is widely recognized as the most prestigious academic honor for students attending associate degree-granting institutions.

All-USA Academic Team members were selected for their outstanding intellectual achievement, leadership, and community and campus engagement.

Godoy has also been named a 2018 New Century Transfer Pathway Scholar

Godoy and will receive an additional $2,250 scholarship.

New Century Transfer Pathway Scholars are selected based on their academic accomplishments, leadership activities, and how well they extend their intellectual talents beyond the classroom.

More than 2,000 students were See All-USA on pg. 2

Tuition story correction

While many Northeast Texas Community College students are studying and preparing for final exams, there are some who are taking time from their busy schedules to be a voice for abused and neglected children. Currently, 70 volunteers from Titus, Camp and Morris Counties serve as Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) in hopes of making a difference.

Out of those 70, five of them are NTCC students.

These students worked alongside other CASA members during National Child Abuse Prevention Month in April to bring awareness to the organization’s mission to help local children in need.

CASA of Titus, Camp and Morris Counties is part of a national non-profit volunteer organization that began in 1977. Volunteers involved in the program are appointed by a judge to oversee and support abused and neglected

courtesy photo

See CASA on pg. 4

In the April 5 issue of The Eagle, the recent tuition increase by the Northeast Texas Community College board of trustees of $2 per hour across the board for in-district, out-of-district and non-resident was incorrectly reported as $10 for in-district, $15 for outof-district and $21 for nonresident.

Additionally, the board approved a $2 increase of the general service fee.

The $4 increase would mean that 12 hours of

tuition and fees for an indistrict student would raise from $1,109 to $1, 157.

Students can click on the cost calculator tab on the NTCC website to find the cost for attending classes.

The article also incorrectly reported that the $4 increase would begin in the fall semester.

The increase actually will be implemented for the upcoming summer semester.

The Eagle regrets the error.

Vice President for Instruction search moves forward ADMINISTRATION

By Kenzie Messer Editor-in-Chief

As the spring semester comes to an end, the search for Vice President for Instruction is still ongoing.

A search committee made up of faculty and staff members was appointed last month to review the applications that came in from all over the country.

“The screening committee has reviewed all 32 applications,” NTCC Director of Human

Resources Amy Adkins said. “Out of the 32 applications reviewed, the committee conducted phone interviews with seven of the external applicants. Additionally, the committee conducted four face-to-face interviews with internal applicants.”

The position for Vice President for Instruction was posted on both the NTCC website and national websites.

“We have a lot of qualified applicants,” Adkins said. “Ten of the 32 applicants have had vice president experience and

WHAT’S INSIDE

SKYPING IN TO CLASS PG.7

KID’S RODEO PG. 10

administrative knowledge that they can bring to our college. We had an excellent pool of candidates to select from.”

Adkins said that the committee hopes to have the interviews completed by the first week of May. From there, the committee will recommend two, possibly three, candidates to take to NTCC President Dr. Ron Clinton.

Clinton will schedule interviews with the finalist and hopefully have a sole finalist to present to the board of trustees at the next

board meeting held in May. ‘“Because this is a leadership position that works so closely with our faculty, this is a very important position to fill,” Clinton said. “I’m very impressed with the number and quality of applications we have received so far. I know that the screening committee is working very hard to narrow the search down to the top two or three candidates within the next couple of weeks, and I look forward to receiving their recommendations and completing the search process very soon.”

UPCOMING EVENTS Last Day of Class............................................................................May 3 Finals Week.............................................................................. May 7-10 Spring Graduation........................................................................ May 12 First Day of May Intersession.......................................................May 14 Memorial Day...............................................................................May 28 Lasy Day of May Intersession........................................................June 1 First Day of Summer Semester.......................................................June 4

Page 2

The Eagle

Northeast Texas Community College

May 3, 2018

NEWS

Northeast dual credit becomes dually noted

By Chelsey Elrod Staff Writer Many high school students begin working on college credits at Northeast Texas Community College and some will even graduate with an associate’s degree before they ever walk across the stage with their high school diplomas.

Currently, 30 percent of NTCC’s overall enrollment is made up of dual credit high school students. In recent years, the collge has placed an emphasis on increasing the enrollment of dual credit students and building relationships with area high schools.

“We really try to make sure that we offer the right kind of programs and courses that are meeting the needs of our high school students and getting them on the right track to come in here as full time students,” NTCC Director of Dual Credit Miles Young said.

Some dual credit students attend classes on the Northeast campus, others are taught by qualified teachers embedded in high school classrooms and at least half of dual credit students take their college classes online.

NTCC services 14 high schools in Cass, Hopkins, Morris, Titus, Henderson, Franklin, Upshur, Camp and Wood counties.

There are currently 780

high school students enrolled in the dual credit program.

“I have often wondered if many of our students are aware that a great number of their fellow classmates are still in high school,” Young said. “You can go into James McGregor’s history class at 8 a.m. any morning and find 20 high school kids in there mixed in with traditional and non-traditional college students.” One of the ways Northeast has continued to develop the dual credit program over the years is to offer a variety of certificate programs.

Students enrolled in dual credit have the opportunity to earn credentials in several different programs before they graduate from high school.

Students are currently receiving certificates in cosmetology, industrial technology and the Carroll Shelby automotive program.

This spring, one Mount Pleasant dual credit student will graduate with his associate degree and 50 students from area high schools will earn ceritificates in a number of workforce and allied health programs.

The college recently added medical assisting as another allied health program that dual credit students can earn a certificate or an associate’s degree.

“Students in their senior year can get a certificate

courtesty photo

NTCC President Dr. Ron Clinton signs a partnership agreement with Kilgore College President Brenda Kays. The agreement will allow NTCC to offer a variety of dual credit agriculture courses in the Kilgore service area. in medical assisting. We articulated that and created a potential pathway to A&M University-Texarkana to get their bachelor’s degree,” Young said. “So, there’s three levels of employability.

Three pieces of paper that they can hang on their wall starts in their senior year of high school.”

NTCC President Dr. Ron Clinton recently signed a

partnership agreement with Kilgore College President Brenda Kays that would allow NTCC to offer a variety of dual credit agriculture courses in the Kilgore service area. These courses would allow high school students to receive certificates and associate’s degrees in farm and ranch management and both conventional and sustainable agriculture.

“We are very excited about this opportunity and for these kinds of substantive partnerships that help both of our colleges extend quality educational opportunities to our respective communities in a way that is both efficient and sustainable,” Clinton said in a recent press release.

NTCC Dean of Distance Education Anna Ingram said that dual credit is a great

opportunity for students to get an early start on their academic careers.

“It has made such an impact on the students, and I think that’s the important thing we need to emphasis about dual credit,” Ingram said. “It makes the program worthwhile and fulfilling to see the students succeed while they are still in high school.”

Student named All-USA Academic Team Jack Kent Cooke Cont. from page 1

nominated from more than 1,600 college campuses across the country. Only one New Century Transfer Pathway Scholar is selected from each state.

“We congratulate Brenda for receiving these prestigious and highly competitive scholarships that recognize outstanding achievements both inside and outside the classroom,” said Phi Theta Kappa’s President and CEO Dr. Lynn TincherLadner. “Scholarship programs like these, not only recognize student achievement, but also create meaningful pathways for college students to succeed by putting completion within financial reach.”

Godoy serves as the PTK Chapter’s

Vice-President of Service, is president of the Bio-Chem Pre-Professional Club, and is a Presidential Honors Scholar.

She is also a supplemental instruction tutor for biology and chemistry.

“Brenda has taken full advantage of the many opportunities NTCC provides and it’s been truly joyous to see her work so diligently to make her dreams come true. These awards mean so much for her and her family because it is recognition of the tremendous effort Brenda puts into everything she does,” Dr. Melissa Fulgham, Lead Advisor for Alpha Mu Chi, NTCC’s chapter of Phi Theta Kappa, said.

The All-USA Academic Team is sponsored by Follett Higher Education Group, with additional support provided

by Phi Theta Kappa and the American Association of Community Colleges (AACC).

The New Century Program is sponsored by The Coca-Cola Foundation, the Coca-Cola Scholars Foundation, Phi Theta Kappa, and the AACC. The New Century Transfer Pathway Scholars and All USA Academic Team will be recognized at Phi Theta Kappa’s Presidents Breakfast in Dallas, Texas, on April 30 during the AACC Convention.

“A first-generation college student and future pediatrician is something which of all of us in this region can celebrate, and it’s wonderful to see Brenda recognized on the national level.

Very well deserved,” Fulgham said.

Exclusive Access, exclusive discounts

By Kenzie Messer Editor-in-Chief Last fall, Northeast Texas Community College adopted the Exclusive Access textbook program designed to offer students a discounted price on digitally delivered material used in a variety of online, hybrid and face-toface courses.

College Store Director Naomi Taylor said the college adopted the program as a way to help students combat the rising costs of the textbooks used in several college courses.

“Textbook prices are expensive,” College Store Director Naomi Taylor said.

“I don’t have control of the pricing, but the College Store’s goal is to always be able to get students what they need to be successful in their courses at the least expensive price. When I was approached by a publisher about their Exclusive Access program, I wanted to see what it was about.”

When a professor adopts Exclusive Access for a course, students receive an access code with the online version of the textbook and any additional material that may also be used in the class.

If a student prefers a hard copy of the textbook, 90 percent they can order one from the bookstore for a

small additional fee.

When students pay for Exclusive Access and purchase a loose leaf textbook, the cost is still less than purchasing a traditional hardback textbook.

“Exclusive Access saves students 20-50 percent,” NTCC Dean of Distance Education Anna Ingram said.

“When they’re in online classes, they have automatic access to their material so there’s no waiting. It helps tremendously with our threeweek intersession classes.”

Ingram said that since Exclusive Access automatically allows students access into the course, they can begin doing coursework on the first day of class.

Because of the initial success and cost savings from the program, Ingram said the majority of online classes offered at NTCC would now be using Exclusive Access.

“Most students who use it, love it,” Ingram said. “The semester started better with less confusion. Because the access is automatic, 92 percent of our students use it and access it. I’ve asked that all our online classes have Exclusive Access if it’s available. Textbook publisher codes are expensive, and this program really cuts the cost down and makes it affordable for students.”

A recent report by Redshelf,

the company that provides Exclusive Access, showed that Northeast students have received a total savings of $50,390 on textbooks since the program started last fall.

The report also stated that NTCC’s pilot Exclusive Access program was one of the most successful in the nation with a participation percentage of more than 98 percent.

“In the past, students have signed up for a class, purchased the publisher’s access code and accessed the class, then their schedule has to change,” Ingram said.

“When they drop that class, they cannot get their money back for a used access code.”

With Exclusive Access, however, students can receive a refund by opting out of a class that they drop before the census date.

“Some students will opt out immediately, before they realize the instructor is going to require the material,” Taylor said. “They can opt back in, so they don’t lose access in their course and don’t get behind in their classes.”

“One of my goals going forward, is to possibly have it when a student signs up for a course, there’s going to be a pop-up box or something that states this course is part of Exclusive Access,” Taylor said. The message could read

something like, “There will be a discounted fee added to your course, and you can find [your material] on Blackboard.”

Taylor said that some students prefer Exclusive Access because they find it more convenient and cost effective.

“One thing that I’ve been surprised at is that we’ve actually had students call and ask what courses are using Exclusive Access because they want to sign up for those course,” Taylor said. “We’ve had students express interest in just taking Exclusive Access classes, so I think it would be beneficial overall to get it out there besides when a student signs up for classes.”

Taylor said the Exclusive Access program is just one way the College Store is working to ensure that students receive an affordable way to purchase their course material.

“Our goal is to be a textbook information center for the students, and a store for the students,” Taylor said.

“That means that if a student has suggestions or feedback or thinks we should do something different, I would love to hear from students.

My main goal is to be a store for the students, not just a store students shop at.”

Cont. from page 1

Walter B. Cooper Scholarship, the Dr. Jerry Wesson Prize for leadership, and was named a CocaCola Academic Team Gold Scholar.

“Jack Kent Cooke is a life changing opportunity. I’m still in shock to have been selected. I cannot wait to pursue my lifetime dreams all because of the Jack Kent Cooke Foundation. None of this would’ve been possible without the faculty at NTCC that only want to help their students in excelling and pursuing their wildest dreams. Thank you to Dr. Andrew Yox for encouraging me to always strive for academic excellence and thank you Dr. Melissa Fulgham for never allowing me to give up and settle for less than what I deserve,” Cantrell said.

Brenda Godoy graduated from Mount Pleasant High School and plans to attend Texas A&M University.

A future pediatrician and Presidential Honors Scholar, Brenda serves as president of the Bio-Chem Pre-Professional Club on campus and was an active participant in NTCC’s projects to become a Tree USA Campus. She is VicePresident of Service for the Phi Theta Kappa chapter and a Supplemental Instructor for Chemistry and Biology, as well as a lab assistant. She won the Eckman Award for outstanding academic work in an honors seminar and a Boe Award for her research on Texas Revolutionary Leaders. She has been named an All USA Community College Academic Team member, a New Century Transfer Scholar and a Hites Scholar.

“It still feels unreal.

I’m very grateful for the professors and other faculty members for taking the time to know me and for giving me opportunities to

advance academically and in leadership. Because of this scholarship I will be able to pursue my dream of becoming a doctor to help others, and to give back to my family, community, and many others who have invested their time and efforts into my future,” Godoy said.

In addition to the monetary award, these new Cooke Transfer Scholars will receive comprehensive educational advising from foundation staff to guide them through the processes of transitioning to a fouryear school and preparing for their careers. The foundation will additionally provide opportunities for internships, study abroad, and graduate school funding, as well as connection to a thriving network of 2,300 fellow Cooke Scholars and alumni. “We thank God for the unity, the momentum and the support that we have received from the NTCC community,” Yox, Honors Director, said. “There are many steps along the way that we are getting right because of this help, and this accounts for why our rural college has had nine Jack Kent Cooke winners in the last eight years, more such scholarships than many individual states in the union.”

Yox offered special thanks to Cantrell and Godoy, who not only studied and worked continuously, but carvedout the time to engage in the opportunities provided through the NTCC network.

He also acknowledged Fulgham, lead Phi Theta Kappa advisor at NTCC, for her steadfast guidance and work on behalf of student success and the Friends off Honors, NTCC administrators, and professors who have all gone above and beyond together to make awards like this possible for NTCC students.

May 3, 2018

The Eagle

Northeast Texas Community College

Page 3

LIFESTYLE Photos and Page Design by Emma Wolfe

Anvil Brewery

Anvil Brewery is a hidden gem, located in Downtown Pittsburg in the original Pilgrim’s Feed Store. Bryon and Kristin Aldredge bought the building in 2016.

After completely tearing it apart and rebuilding it, Anvil Brewery opened on July 4, 2016. They remain family owned and operated.

Even though they have a few unrelated employees, everyone considers each other family.

This quirky rebuilt feed store offers a rustic atmosphere. The main dining room is separate to the event space, which allows plenty of room for guests. So, whether you’re looking for a romantic private date, a place to gather with friends, or a dance floor, this is a great spot.

Hours Thurs-Sat 3-11

Nardello’s Pizza Tavern Nardello’s Pizza Tavern recently opened in downtown Mount Pleasant. The name is derived from the Jimmy Nardello pepper, which the owners grow on their farm Comeback Creek, adding sentimental value to this romantic little downtown gem.

They offer locally brewed craft beer, wine on tap, and house made cocktails. You can also get a beer flight, which is four samples if you want to try a little of everything.

Nardello’s kitchen is full of unique menu items, such as their “Gettin’ Figgy With It: and “Millenial” pizzas. Grab a bite to eat at Nordello’s and then head on over to Third Street for some lively music.

Hours Mon-Thurs. 11-9 Fri-Sat. 11-10

The Alley on Third Street

Every Thursday night, The Alley on Third Street hosts a local music artist for citizens of Mount Pleasant and the surrounding areas to enjoy. The genre of the performances varies each week. There is comfortable seating, romantic lights, and nearby hot-spots to pick up a bite to eat or drink. Come out for a date unlike any other, or stop in for a relaxing wind-down toward the end of a long week.

Barefoot Bay Marina Barefoot Bay Marina is the summer hangout spot for kids and adults alike.

Located on the shores of Lake Bob Sandlin, this rustic marina offers family friendly fun-in-the-sun activities like kayaking, bike rentals and volleyball.

They also have a juke box complete with a dance floor to enjoy your favorite songs. The back patio is equipped with a hot tub, tanning chairs, and inside are billiard tables. There is also a boat ramp to easily launch your boat and a dock to swim and play on. A convenience store is attached to the dining/ game room for easy access to any essentials you may need.

With made-to-order menu options and plenty of seating, Barefoot Bay Marina is a place to hang out during the hot summer months.

Hours Mon- Thurs. 7-8 Fri-Sat. 7-11 Sun. 11-8

Efurd’s Orchards Efurd’s Orchards is a family owned and operated farmer’s market that provides homemade ice cream, preserves and fresh produce.

Antique and vintage accessories displayed in their store offer an experience unlike any other.

They have vintage sodas, antique cars, old diner booths and many other unique pieces.

Efurd’s is most popular for their homemade ice cream made from their own peaches, strawberries, seasonal blueberries, cantaloupes and pineapples.

They also offer U-Pick sessions for families to enjoy, where you can walk the vines and bushes of their orchards to pick your own strawberries and other delicious fruits.

Hours Mon-Fri. 9-5 Sun. 12-5 CLOSED Tuesday

Page 4

The Eagle

Northeast Texas Community College

May 3, 2018

NEWS

courtesy photo

Above: Dual Credit student R.J. Grantham will graduate with his EMT certificate during the upcoming graduation ceremony on May 12. The 18-year-old plans to begin the paramedic program in the fall 2018 semester.

Left: Grantham shoots for a strike during a recent game of bowling. He will be inducted into the Texas Youth Hall of Honor later this month. Grantham began bowling at seven and has won numerous tournaments during his 10 years of participating in the sport. Grantham is a home schooled dual credit student at NTCC. courtesy photo

USBC inducts student in Texas Youth Hall of Honor

By McKay Patrick Staff Writer

While most eight year olds spend their free time on a baseball or soccer field, R.J. Grantham honed his talent at eight years old learning how to throw strikes on a bowling lane.

At just 18, Grantham, a dual credit student at Northeast Texas Community College, is being inducted into the Texas Youth Hall of Honor for bowling by the United States Bowling Congress (USBC) later this month.

Aside from being recognized for his sport, Grantham, who is home schooled, will also be earning his EMT certificate from NTCC during the upcoming May graduation ceremony.

While these two achievements would be major accomplishments for any high school student, they are especially special for Grantham.

The 18-year-old was born with Phenylketonuria (PKU), a rare disorder that prevents his body from processing protein correctly.

This inability causes the amino acid phenylalanine to build up in the body.

PKU is caused by a defect in the gene that helps create the enzyme needed to break down phenylalanine.

Despite the difficulties associated with the disorder, Grantham has not allowed PKU to stop him from pursuing bowling or other physical activities. Instead, he has learned to deal with the condition through a strict diet and exercise regime.

“This disorder doesn’t really define who I am,” Grantham said.

“It’s part of who I am.”

Over the past ten years, the young man has excelled in his chosen sport, winning numerous bowling competitions and gaining recognition for his achievements.

In March 2015, Grantham competed in the Texas Pepsi Youth Championship held at USA Bowl in Dallas. Grantham came in first place out of at least 900 bowlers competing in the tournament.

He also won two back-to-back Teen Bowler circuit titles. “Once

you start placing in tournaments, your name gets out there a lot more,” he said.

Northeast Interim Vice President Kevin Rose, who had the opportunity to bowl with Grantham in a fundraising tournament for the NTCC Travel Club last fall, said the young athlete’s talent is evident.

“Congratulations to R.J. on this tremendous honor and distinction,” Rose said. “Having had the opportunity to see him bowl, it is obvious he has tremendous talent that has been shaped through hard work and dedication. These are two traits that will carry him far, not only in his bowling career, but also his academic studies here at Northeast.”

Grantham was an avid baseball player before he discovered bowling at seven years old. By eight, he was bowling on a youth league and discovering his love for the sport.

He said it took lots of practice before people began to realize that he had a knack for the sport.

“I started winning, and I started really training and working on my

craft,” Grantham said. “Once I started placing in tournaments and winning, they all started seeing my name and knowing me as the young gun for quite a while.”

NTCC Dual Credit Director Miles Young got to know Grantham through his participation in the dual credit program. He also had the chance to bowl with him in the tournament held last fall.

“One of the most impressive things about R.J. is the complete dedication he brings to whatever he does,” Young said. “In his athletic and academic careers I have seen firsthand R.J.’s dedication to every endeavor in which he engages.”

Aside from bowling, Grantham is also focused on helping others and has shown an interest in pursuing a career as a paramedic. He plans to begin the program next fall.

Russell VanBibber, faculty instructor for Health SciencesEMS, has Grantham as a student in the program.

“He balances his college course work with his high school curricula,” VanBibber said. “His work ethic is

impeccable compared to others his age. I am excited for what the future holds for this young man.”

Grantham plans on beginning NTCC’s paramedic program next fall. “I’ve always had a passion for helping people. I’ve never been that kind of guy who’d sit on the sidelines,” he said. “When people are in a time of need, I always want to be there and help them however I can, and I thought being a paramedic would help with that.”

And, helping people might just be in his DNA. Grantham’s mother is NTCC EMS Director Deborah Grantham. She admits that the apple didn’t fall too far from the tree and that her son has a true heart to help others.

“He has the same dedicated soul and just wants to follow in his mom’s footsteps,” she said. “He was my angel, and now he will have the chance to make a difference in this world in a positive way. And like bowling, he is a natural for EMS, rescue/fire business as he has a natural, compassionate gift to help others.”

CASA volunteers Cont. from pg. 1 “We served 195 children last year in Titus, Camp and Morris Counties. That’s way too many abused and neglected kids,” CASA Executive Director Michelle Cobern said. “So, we need a lot more volunteers and we encourage people to get involved. They will learn a lot about the court system.

They’ll learn a lot about the child welfare system, and they will receive a tremendous education about what’s going on in their community.”

NTCC Criminal Justice Professor Bob Hedges and Carmen Shurtleff, associate faculty in the social work program, encourage students who may be considering careers in law enforcement, child protective services, or social work, to consider volunteering with the CASA program.

Students enrolled in the social work program are also required to take a service-learning course and volunteer with a local organization. Shurtleff said, however, that those who work with CASA go beyond what her class requires because the organization expects a minimum one-year commitment.

“Each volunteer has to fill out an application and go through 15 hours in the classroom and 15 hours homework.

Then after their training, they have to take an oath before a judge, do courtroom observation, and then once they take an oath before a judge then they’re assigned to a case,” Cobern said.

Shurtleff said NTCC students who choose CASA as their project must be willing to commit both time and effort to the children they will be working with.

“This is a very serious volunteer opportunity and it takes a lot of commitment,” Shurtleff said. “You have to stick with the family for a year. You have to go in and observe the interaction between the parents and the child, and the judge is going to ask you for your recommendation.”

Northeast student Shakeshia High started out as a CASA volunteer and now works as an advocate supervisor for the organization.

“It’s amazing. My whole thing was coming into it I was nervous and I wasn’t for sure about it, but once I started the program I knew this was my calling,” High said. “Then Mrs. Michelle was able to hire me so it was even better.”

High worked at a prison for five years before enrolling in the social work program at Northeast. It was through that program that she volunteered to become a child advocate.

“When I had to do my project, I did it over CASA,” High said. “Learning what CASA does for our children, and then becoming a supervisor as well and going to school, it’s amazing to be able to have the opportunity.”

courtesy photo

CASA volunteers and NTCC students stand in front of the Mount Pleasant Courthouse with some of the bows they placed on lightpost throughout downtown Mount Pleasant in observance of Child Abuse Awareness month in April.

Shurtleff said High has been an inspiration and mentor to the other four social work students currently volunteering with CASA, and that her commitment to the children she helps is evident in the work she does.

“She’s definitely passionate,” Shurtleff said. “Her niche is working with adolescents, which is a really hard group to work with because at that point, they’re very hesitant and untrustworthy.”

NTCC student Paola Lorenzo is working toward a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice. She was first introduced to the CASA program during one of Professor Hedges’ classes, and is currently in the process of becoming a volunteer. Lorenzo said serving as an advocate sounds interesting and that she just wants to “get involved and help.”

“I want to become a probation officer or a CPS investigator,”

Lorenzo said. “I have two babies and when I hear these cases, I just see it in their eyes and I don’t know who could do something like that.”

There are more than 1,000 CASA programs nationwide and 72 CASA programs in the state of Texas. Today, the CASA movement has evolved into one of the largest volunteer organizations in the country.

Cobern said the organization is always searching for people who are willing to commit their time to become CASA volunteers. “We reach out to anyone that has a heart for children,” she said. “We can train anyone to do the process.

We don’t mind if they have a fulltime job, if they have a family, if they’re retired, if they’re teachers, it doesn’t matter.

We want people who want to stand up for children who are abused and neglected and give them a voice and care.”

May 3, 2018

The Eagle

Page 5

Northeast Texas Community College

NEWS

courtesy photo

Alpha Mu Chi - Phi Theta Kappa officers, members and advisers pose in front of the #IAMPTK poster at the centennial Catalyst convention in Kansas City, Mo. From left: Adviser Melissa Fulgham, Nubia Sanchez, Sarah Spiker, Rhylie Anderson, Cassidy Watkins, Hannah Fouche, Alicia Cantrell, Erick David Gaytan, Lilly Haack, Veronica Womble, Tyler Bernard, Angel Hodges, Brenda Godoy and Angela Garza.

PTK chapter wins numerous awards at Catalyst event Special to The Eagle

Fifteen representatives of Alpha Mu Chi, Northeast Texas Community College’s chapter of Phi Theta Kappa, recently attended the international Honor Society’s annual convention known as PTK Catalyst.

The 2018 convention, held in Kansas City, Missouri, marked the 100th anniversary of the largest, oldest, and most prestigious honor society in the world. The celebration of leadership and scholarship, with its spectacular light and sound show, red carpet, and big stage, has earned the annual event the nickname “the Academic Academy Awards.”

“The convention was a spectacular celebration of scholarship, leadership, service and fellowship – what Phi Theta Kappa is all about. With the best colleges in the nation recruiting the best students in the nation at the college fair, attendees had a chance to experience world-class speakers, participate in inspiring and uplifting activities, and rejoice with bright, driven, intelligent students from throughout the international Honor society,” said NTCC PTK Adviser Dr. Melissa Fulgham.

Featured speakers during the event included

global futurist Chris Ridell, Amy Cuddy (whose TED talk is the second most watched of all time), Susan Cain (bestselling author of The Quiet Revolution), and Grammy and Tony Award winner Daveed Diggs from the musical Hamilton.

Nearly 5,000 people attended the 100th anniversary celebration, which included unique events each evening such as human foosball, a trapeze artist, a fire juggler, fireworks and dancing.

Northeast student Chesney David, outgoing Texas Regional Vice-President for District III, marched in the opening ceremony’s parade of flags. He, and the other Texas regional officers from other 2-year colleges, accepted two Texas Regional Awards at the International Convention.

Two Alpha Mu Chi members, Lilly Haack and Tyler Bernard, competed in the prepared speech competition. Although neither won, each plans to compete again next year and aim for the $500 top prize.

NTCC students Alicia Cantrell and Brenda Godoy gave a workshop on the Honors Case Study Challenge. Cantrell and Godoy were two of the three lead editors for the Alpha Mu Chi’s winning chapter entry on Mental Health,

for which over a dozen members contributed research. The two shared their findings with the audience as well as the approach and methods the chapter used in its case study analysis.

Fulgham also gave a workshop at the convention on the Honors Program Guide and the 2018-2020 study topic “Transformations: Acknowledging, Assessing and Achieving Change.”

Cantrell campaigned for the International Vice-President of Division II position.

Division II goes from Texas to Florida, on down through the Caribbean Island chapters and as far south as Peru. Cantrell’s campaign manager came from a chapter in San Antonio; her campaign team included members from various chapters throughout Texas, including several from NTCC’s chapter. Cantrell became a semi-finalist for the position, winning a $500 scholarship as a result. As a semi-finalist, she gave a speech on “Visions of Justice” on stage before 5,000 attendees, and narrowly lost the election.

During the event, Alpha Mu Chi was recognized again this year as a Top 100 chapter. Alpha Mu Chi also won a Hallmark Award for its Distinguished Honors in

Action project. The chapter’s officers were recognized onstage as an International Officer Team of Distinction, a highly prized and competitive international level award.

All attendees had the opportunity to march in the Parade of Scholars. Alpha Mu Chi members marched in recognition of the following scholarships: three Leaders of Promise (four if one counts the regional Dr. Mary Hood Scholarship), two Hites Scholars, one Coca-Cola Gold Level Academic Scholar, one All USA Academic Team member, one New Century Transfer Pathway Scholar, two Jack Kent Cooke scholars and the chapter winning Case Study Challenge.

“The 2018 PTK Catalyst International Convention was a once in a lifetime experience, and I’m so grateful to have been able to experience it with my chapter,” Cantrell, Alpha Mu Chi president, said. “I loved seeing our hard work from this past year getting recognized at an international level. None of our success as a chapter would be possible without such a wonderful, hardworking chapter officer team and our dedicated advisors that only want to see their students grow and excel as Phi Theta Kappa students.”

Northeast student receives honor as a Coca-Cola Academic Team Gold Scholar Special to The Eagle

Godoy and Davis

courtesy photo

NTCC Students win national Hites Award Special to The Eagle Chesney Davis and Brenda Godoy, students at Northeast Texas Community College, are among ten college students named 2018 Hites Scholars.

Each will receive a $7,500 scholarship for baccalaureate studies. This is the largest scholarship Phi Theta Kappa awards to its members.

The Hites Transfer Scholarship is awarded to Phi Theta Kappa members who are preparing to transfer to a bachelor’s degree-granting college or university.

Winners were selected from among 3,100 applicants nationwide for their outstanding academic achievement and rigor, leadership accomplishments, and engagement in college and community activities.

Davis is a future mechanical engineer and a Presidential Honors Scholar in Honors Northeast who also served as the District III Vice President of the Texas Region for Phi Theta Kappa.

Davis is the son of Brenda,

and Jamie Davis of Pittsburg.

Godoy is a future pediatrician and also a Presidential Honors Scholar in Honors Northeast. She serves as the Vice-President of Service for the NTCC Phi Theta Kappa chapter and is President of the Bio-Chem Club. She was recently inducted into the District III Hall of Honor for the Texas Region. Godoy is the daughter of Policarpo and Esperanza Godoy of Mount Pleasant.

“Brenda and Chesney combine academic brilliance with a willingness to serve.

We are thankful too for our friends in and out of the college who have provided poetry, poster, trip, local leadership and academic awards, and other forms of help which have further facilitated prestigious awards like this,” Andrew Yox, Honors Director, said.

The Hites Transfer Scholarship Program is made possible by support from the Hites Family Foundation and the Phi Theta Kappa Foundation.

Alicia Cantrell, a student at Northeast Texas Community College, has been named a 2018 Coca-Cola Academic Team Gold Scholar and will receive a $1,500 scholarship.

Students are nominated for the academic team by their college administrators.

Selection is based on academic achievement, leadership, and engagement in college and community service.

A graduate of Mount Vernon High School, Alicia serves as President of the Phi Theta Kappa chapter on the NTCC campus and is a Presidential Scholar in Honors Northeast. Cantrell also serves as President of the Honors Student Council and co-founder/President of the NTCC Speech and Debate Club.

Named a 2017 Leader of Promise, Cantrell has won the Dr. Jerry Wesson Scholarship and the Walter B. Cooper Scholarship.

Cantrell was recently inducted into the District III Region Hall of Honor for Phi Theta Kappa and recognized as an “Outstanding Officer” in the Texas Region.

Cantrell has also been very active in the film culture of Honors Northeast, playing Mary Kay’s antagonist in the most recent film.

Alicia’s essay entitled “Rise of the Intersectional Feminists: Texans Barbara Jordan and Ann Richards vs the Male Establishment” was published in the January 2018 edition of Touchstone, the journal of the Texas State Historical Association.

courtesy photo

Alicia Cantrell is the Alpha Mu Chi chapter president. She also recently won the Jack Kent Cook scholarship.

Cantrell was one of only two undergraduates, and the only community college student, who appeared on the program of the most recent Annual meeting of the Texas State Historical Association.

Cantrell also presented work comparing Jeannette Rankin and Hilary Rodham Clinton at the Great Plains Honor Council and is in the process of getting that work published as well.

Alicia plans to become a lawyer and political activist so as to become the “voice

for those without a voice.”

“I am immensely proud of Alicia and her accomplishments. She is a hard worker with tremendous grit and determination to overcome obstacles and truly help others. She has a bravery and genuine acceptance of others that will take her very far in life,” said Dr. Melissa Fulgham, lead advisor for the Phi Theta Kappa chapter.

The Coca-Cola Scholars Foundation sponsors the Coca-Cola Academic Team program by recognizing

50 Gold, 50 Silver and 50 Bronze Scholars with nearly $200,000 in scholarships annually. Each scholar also receives a commemorative medallion.

“The Coca-Cola Scholars Foundation has a long history of providing financial assistance to outstanding students at community colleges,” said J. Mark Davis, President of the CocaCola Scholars Foundation.

“We are proud to partner with Phi Theta Kappa and make it possible for deserving students to achieve their educational goals.”

Coca-Cola Academic Team members will be recognized in both local and statewide ceremonies and will also be recognized internationally during Phi Theta Kappa’s annual convention, PTK Catalyst, April 19-21 in Kansas City, Missouri.

“We thank the Coca-Cola Scholars Foundation for recognizing these student leaders and for investing in their futures,” said Dr. Lynn Tincher-Ladner, President and CEO of Phi Theta Kappa.

“Scholarships like these are integral to the success of these students in reaching their educational and career goals.”

Phi Theta Kappa is the premier honor society recognizing the academic achievement of community college students and helping them to grow as scholars and leaders.

The Society is made up of more than 3.5 million members and nearly 1,300 chapters in nine nations.

Learn more at ptk.org.

Page 6

The Eagle

Eagle Eye

Northeast Texas Community College

OPINION

Do you think it’s more beneficial to attend a community college or a university right out of high school? Why or why not?

“It is more beneficial in the long run to attend a community college first. It is easier to determine what you want to do. There’s a wider variety of different courses and majors you can take at a community college to learn what you really want to do than to spend the time and money investing in a 4-year univeristy.”

- Tyler Bernard “It is better to go to community college first because it’s cheaper and you get the same education and the classes are smaller so profesors pay more attention to you than at a university. At a community college you have different clubs you can join and it’s cheaper than a university.”

- Yesenia Castillo “I think community college is more beneficial, because I think going to a university there are extra things to do outside of school besides academically. There’s more parties that will distract you from what you are trying to do.

There’s certain people with a mindset that just need a community college to start off.”

- Danny Boyd “I think it’s beneficial for people around here to have a community college because it’s a step that you need because universities are big and have larger classes. Here you can get stuff done then you can transfer.”

- Kallye Sullivan

Don’t be so quick to judge

By Carlos Miranda Staff Writer

We live in on of the greatest country in the world. In my view we have freedoms that people in other countries don’t have. The United States was created by immigrants, immigrants that are from different ethnicities, cultures and races.

Having different types of people in America is what makes our nation the best, but with good, there is almost always the bad.

A problem that exists in our country is that we all too often categorize people from the upper class to the working poor.

We put labels on people and judge them by the stereotypes that society places on races. Some say all Hispanics are from Mexico and are illegal and that African Americans live in the projects and are on welfare. There are even those who say all Arabs are terrorists.

A lot of the media has done an amazing job encouraging people to be filled with hate toward each other. They depict many people as thugs, illegals and criminals. Never giving them a chance to show their real personalities, going off a past that doesn’t exist anymore or maybe never did.

Some people might look at me and

“W

automatically think I’m a bad person. Seeing my tatted sleeve, they would classify me as a criminal or a thug.

This classification would be wrong because my tattoos don’t define the person I am.

These types of stereotypes are pushed by the media on an everyday basis.

Often when an African American gets killed by a cop, the negative always comes out first, some act like it was OK for the person to die or that he or she even deserved it.

This type of behavior divides our country into two groups, one searching for justice and the other trying to justify the action of the cop.

The media feeds off of this action and starts showing all the bad apples in groups like Black Lives Matter, which then gives our nation a onesided picture.

This feeds a false image that adds fire to groups like Blue Lives Matter. Many times hate begins to fuel our way of thinking.

Once the media poisons the viewers, these organizations that were once created for a good cause look as if they have forgotten the real reason they started and what they initially stood for.

What was once a fight for justice becomes a fight for color, a fight that becomes violent and that is no longer just a protest. This is the same fight that keeps our nation divided and blinded with hate.

hat was once a fight for justice, becomes a fight for color.”

The Eagle Eagle Adviser Mandy Smith Editor-in-Chief Kenzie Messer Managing Editor Daniel Yanez Entertainment Editor Jessica Drumm Staff Writers Chelsey Elrod, Vanessa Nevarez, Nubia Sanchez, McKay Patrick, Emma Wolfe, Jillian Brooks, Emma Yeager, Carlos Miranda and Kathryn Huffines 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.ntcceagleonline.com

May 3, 2018

Strong Opinions The Golden Rule applies to art, too

By Debbie Strong Guest Columnist

Art of all kinds is my passion, and it hurts my heart when I discover that anyone intentionally defaces art. Controlling the disrespect of the creations of others is paramount in my eyes, and the efforts to protect any art has become a serious consideration of museums around the world.

Just this past December, a vandal attended an Ugly Sweater Christmas party at the Franklin Institute in Philadelphia and entered an exhibit area that was closed.

The Terracotta Warriors exhibit is on loan from China and is considered a great archaeological discovery. The partygoer snapped a selfie of himself, then broke a thumb of one of the stone soldiers and slipped it into his pocket.

It was not until January 2018 that the missing digit was noted, and the FBI tracked down the thief.

China is in an uproar, and rightfully so.

Their government sent a team of expert repairmen and are demanding severe punishment for the vandal.

Of course, the Franklin Institute has beefed up security throughout the museum.

I hope that the exhibit room door remains locked for any future after-hour parties.

I remember the wonderful visit in the mid-seventies I had to the Louvre in Paris to see the Mona Lisa, but I was appalled that the museum had to take such great measures to protect her from vandals.

The non-flash pictures I took with my

manual camera (I had no digital camera in those days) show an ugly, thick glass box around the Mona Lisa painting.

It certainly distracted the viewer’s eye from looking at the details of this treasure.

Many have attempted to deface the Mona Lisa with the latest occurrence in 2011 when a Russian woman was angered because of her denied French citizenship request. She threw a museum-purchased coffee mug at the painting.

The Mona Lisa maintained her enigmatic smile, but it makes one wonder why someone chooses to express her anger by attempting to destroy famous art.

What would Leonardo da Vinci think about such emotions directed at his painting?

While in the Army in Germany, I traveled to many art museums in Europe.

In the early ‘70s, I spent a weekend in Amsterdam and went to the Rijksmuseum.

I saw the famous The Night Watch painting, which was vandalized twice while I was in Germany over the years.

In 1975, an unemployed school teacher attacked the painting with a knife, and in 2000 a vandal sprayed acid on the painting.

Each time the museum painstakingly restored Rembrandt van Rijn’s masterpiece, but the marks remain visible.

Currently, the Rijksmuseum states that various security and safety measures do not interfere with the “visitor’s experience,” but I read online posts in Tripadvisor that seem to tell a different story.

Art is my passion in a positive way by creating and teaching art, while these vandals are passionate about their feelings and take them out on art.

Let’s hope that museums continue to protect art from the negative passion.

Community college, first step to success

By McKay Patrick Staff Writer College can be scary. I’m not even going to try and sugarcoat it. Deciding where you want to go and what you want to be takes time and it seems like everyone is expecting you to have all the answers.

There are the lucky ones who have everything planned out from the beginning. They are on the path to success and confident they’ll succeed in their dreams.

Then there’s the rest of us, clueless and hesitant to make big decisions, so we watch from the sidelines. We cheer on the champions while we try to get our lives together.

Sound familiar? Yes? No? Maybe?

Well, that was definitely me when I graduated from high school. I had no idea what I was going to do and to be quite honest, I still don’t.

Though there is a solution, and while it might seem like a waste of time to some people, to most people it’s a step in the right direction.

Community college is a great, solid foundation to build up experience, develop a career and essentially work toward a successful future.

There’s so many benefits for choosing to attend a

community college right after high school rather than a four-year university.

I’ll mention a few but the most important and obvious is that it’s cheaper. It’ll make you and your parent’s lives easier.

In most cases, in order for young people to achieve their dreams, they have to mentally prepare for the never-ending road of college debt after graduation. Thankfully, if a person decides to attend a community college, he or she can save a great deal of money.

Compare NTCC’s cost for tuition and general fees, $1,157 for 12 hours, to a four-year university such as SFA with $4,158 and you’ll see a pretty big difference.

Community colleges are without a doubt cheaper than four-year universities.

Aside from the lower tuition and fees, attending a community college right after high school offers the opportunity to learn in a diverse environment.

Most of the classes are small so students really get to know their professors and their classmates.

I personally know a few friends of mine who decided to attend a four-year university.

They seemed happy but by the end of the first semester, they were back home attending a community college because of how overwhelmed they felt.

I’ve made friendships here at NTCC that I know will last way into the future. There’s always time to figure out a career path and getting to

know the staff and fellow students can be the deciding factor.

I don’t know about you, but I’m an awful test taker.

I’ve had to retake the ACT multiple times. So, fellow students, don’t feel bad if you’ve been in a similar situation.

Whether it be ACT, SAT, or TSI, we’re in the same boat. I won’t get into how test scores don’t decide how smart a person is but rather avert your attention to another reason why it’s great to start out at a two-year college.

You’ll have the opportunity to overcome low test scores or low grades. And, there are plenty of people who are willing to help.

Another point I might add is if/when you decide to transfer to a university, your application will be proof that you have a year or two under your belt and that makes it that much easier to be admitted.

So, if you’re reading this and you’re just about to graduate high school, or you’re questioning whether or not you made the right decision attending a community college, I’m here to tell you you’ve made a wise choice.

I’ve talked to many people who say they wished they had attended a two-year college before anything else and if they could go back, that’s exactly what they’d do.

So, don’t fret or worry about the future. Believe in the decisions you’ve made, believe in yourself, and everything will play out as

May 3, 2018

The Eagle

Page 7

Northeast Texas Community College

CAMPUS

Skype: a new college commute for students

By Jessica Drumm Entertainment Editor

Imagine walking into a classroom and sitting down next to a computer.

And on that little screen is a living, breathing student more than 600 miles away listening and responding to the very same lecture you are.

That student is Jamie McRae, who lives on Offutt Air Force base in Bellevue, Neb. with her military husband and her young daughter.

After moving from the local area, McRae has completed most of her classes online.

McRae began working on her college degree on the Northeast Texas Community College campus, but has since taken all of her classes online after moving first to England and then to Nebraska.

Last fall, McRae was going over her degree plan and noticed that she only needed one more class in order to graduate with her English degree, but there was just one problem, the course wasn’t offered online.

“It was really difficult to think that I wouldn’t graduate just because of one class,” McRae said. “I did a bunch of calling around, and I ended up talking to Nick Jackson in advising. He suggested that I do an independent study.”

While looking into the information on the creative writing course, McRae saw that Mandy Smith was teaching the class.

Having had Smith previously for English Comp I, McRae decided to talk with her former teacher about doing an independent study.

“I was actually quite nervous. I wasn’t sure how I was going to get any feedback or how I was going to know what was really going on,” McRae said. “Then Mrs. Smith suggested that we Skype. So I was like, I’m going to class in a computer.

I’m a robot.”

The creative writing class gives students the opportunity to share their work and receive responses from fellow students, which

could prove to be somewhat difficult for an online student.

Smith was also a little unsure about the whole situation at first, but told McRae that they would work it out so she could Skype some with the class during the semester.

“The interaction between students is what makes this class,” Smith said. “I thought we would just bring Jamie in occasionally so she could at least participate some. It worked out so well the first couple of times that she Skyped in that she starting joining us every class period.”

While online courses offer unlimited learning opportunities for students like McRae, some of the human interaction that comes with sitting in a classroom with other students is naturally lost.

Skyping into the creative writing class gave her a unique face-to-face experience that she doesn’t normally get to have when taking online classes.

For McRae, it was all about the connections.

“I get to actually interact with people. When you’re taking an online class you don’t get that at all. You have discussion posts but no one really says anything. You don’t get any real feedback,” she said. “This way you not only get the feedback but the emotional responses as well.

You know what someone means because you can hear and see them. Even though I love having the convenience of online classes, I much prefer Skyping or actually going to class in person.”

Being able to talk with her professor face-to-face as opposed to waiting for a response by email or phone was also a benefit to McRae, who normally interacts with her teachers strictly online.

Skyping into the class has been an interesting learning experience not only for McRae, but for the rest of her classmates as well.

“I think it’s really interesting and futuristic,” Amber Allen said. “It’s like

staff photo

| mandy smith

NTCC Creative writing students discuss their stories with McRae through Skype during a recent class session. we have a little robot over there in the corner that tells us how our work is. It’s kind of like a foreshadowing of where technology is taking us in the realm of academics.”

All of the students agreed that having McRae join them through Skype added a whole new level to their class experience this spring.

Instead of the typical independent study that’s associated with online courses, Skyping allowed both McRae and her classmates to get more out of the class.

“Even though she’s not here personally, it still feels very organic and natural,” Michael Key, another one of McRae’s classmates, said.

“It’s almost as if she’s not really 600 miles away.”

Not only was it a learning experience for everyone involved, it was an educational experience as well.

“I just think it’s been great to have her here with us,” Smith said. “We have a student located 600 miles away who is a vibrant part of our creative writing group.

It’s a whole new world

staff photo

| mandy smith

Shannah Ford, right, of Northeast Texas Writers Organization, visits with McRae about the group while visiting with Smith’s creative writing class. out there technologically, and this shows that we can offer students a classroom experience in a totally different way.”

Smith said she hopes that this experiment will prove successful for other classes in the future.

This experience has giving McRae a chance to express herself and interact with her

classmates on a personal level, all from the comfort of her own home.

And who knows what this could mean for the future of online learning.

“It’s been a really interesting experience.”

McRae said. “Even though I don’t get to meet everyone in person, it’s been really awesome to see how different

everyone is. When you’re doing an online class, all you get to see are words and a name and that’s all they are.

These guys are actual people with actual things to say. It’s been really awesome. I’ve enjoyed it a lot.”

Eagle athletes love the game and their playing field

By Emma Yeager Staff Writer Lawn mowers rumble as background noise and the air is saturated with the sweet aroma of freshly cut grass.

The men stand exhausted, but satisfied at the end of the day.

No, this is not a neighborhood cleanup but a group of NTCC baseball players just doing their job before and after a ballgame.

Unlike other sports, baseball requires critical maintenance to the playing field and many times it is the athletes who are responsible for that work.

Different positions take care of specific areas of the field.

For example, outfielders will clean the dugouts, pitchers will drag dirt, and coaches will mow and fertilize the grass.

During the fall semester, the field is usually mowed two or three times a week.

In the spring, however, the grass has to be watered daily and mowed every other day.

Before the game, players have 25 minutes to prepare the field.

During the week, it takes them ten hours or more to keep the field maintained.

The players and the coaches agree that taking care of the field gives them a stronger sense of pride in their sport and teaches them responsibility.

“It gives us more maturity in what we do,” baseball player Manny Garcia said.

“It’s what we work for. Every

Above: Assistant coach Matt Durst mows the field after a practice session.

Left: Baseball player Hunter Thompson and other team members doing some work on the Eagle field. time the field looks good, the team looks good.”

Contrary to popular belief, baseball is more than just a sport with a bat and a ball.

It is an art that teaches respectful qualities to its players that they can carry with them throughout life.

“To us, it is bigger than just baseball,” Assistant Coach Matt Durst said.

A well-maintained field speaks loudly about the character of the team.

Working on the field together helps develop stronger relationships between the players.

Durst said that they actually enjoy working the grounds. “Mowing the field, that’s the favorite part of my day,” he said. “It is a time where you can get your head right.”

When they were in college, Durst and Segovia were players on the

Eagles team.

Now that they’ve become assistant coaches, and they intend to keep the field looking even better than it did when they were players.

Having a well-maintained field not only rewards the players, it is also welcoming and inviting to new baseball recruits.

“It’s a tool for us,” Durst said.

When coaches give a tour to young players that are considering joining the NTCC baseball team, the first sight they see is the field and a wellmaintained field helps persuade them to consider joining the Eagles team.

Along with drawing more players

in, a nice field also impresses the opposing teams that come to play at Northeast.

“It pays off when the opponents show up and their coaches and staff complement our field,” Assistant Coach Shane Segovia said.

A wide-open field to a baseball team is like a blank canvas to a painter.

The coaches decided to have a little fun creating some different grass patterns for the field. The trick to mowing is getting the lines perfectly straight, but sometimes they enjoy changing up the look of the field.

When they get an opportunity to try something out of the ordinary with

“When the lights come on and we step onto the field, it’s just a whole other experience.”

-Manny Garcia

their mowing skills, this brings some artistic element to the game.

“Any chance we get we like to do something a little different,” Durst said. “We threw some designs in there in the fall.”

Doing the field work gives the players more satisfaction at the end of the day.

The team is taught that it is their duty to keep their facilities clean out of a sense of pride and respect for the sport, for the team and for the fans.

“Walking out to the field and seeing how beautiful it is, is just exciting,” Garcia said. “When the lights come on and we step onto the field, it’s just a whole other experience.”

Garcia helps with the mowing, weed-eating and trash cleanup.

“It’s not that easy. People think it is, but it’s not,” Durst said. “It’s an art, and it takes a certain skill.”

Page 8

The Eagle

Northeast Texas Community College

May 3, 2018

ENTERTAINMENT

‘Infinity War’ smashes box office records

By Jessica Drumm Entertainment Editor It’s finally here. The most anticipated movie of the year and it’s blowing away all records.

The latest from the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), Avengers: Infinity War soared onto the silver screen with a record breaking $250 million opening weekend, making box office history.

This puts it above the opening weekends for both Star Wars: The Force Awakens and Jurassic World, making it the biggest opening of all time.

Starring nearly 30 Avengers, Infinity War features an all-star cast including Josh Brolin (Thanos), Robert Downy Jr. (Iron Man), Chris Evans (Captain America), Chris Hemsworth (Thor), Scarlett Johansson (Black Widow), Tom Holland (Spiderman), Chadwick Boseman (Black Panther), Benedict Cumberbatch (Doctor Strange), Chris Pratt (Star-Lord), Zoe Saldana (Gamora), and many other big name actors including a special appearance from Peter Dinklage.

Avengers: Infinity War follows Thanos, one of Marvel’s greatest supervillains, as he attempts to acquire the remaining infinity stones.

Once he acquires the last infinity stone, Thanos then intends to use the stones’ power to eliminate half of all life in the universe.

The only thing that stands

sheer number of characters and storylines might make keeping up with the movie a little hard for anyone who is not a die-hard fan.

Infinity War is also one of the darkest MCU films to date, with consequences unlike any that have been seen so far in this particular franchise.

Directed by Anthony Russo and written by Christopher Markus and Stephen McFeely, Avengers: Infinity War respects the intelligence of the viewers while still

giving the characters deep motives and presenting mindblowing action scenes.

This film is as clean as epics get. None of its nearly three hours feels wasted.

While the intersecting plotlines and multitude of characters might confuse casual viewers, for fans, Infinity War offers one earthshattering moment after another.

Plus, this film is also one of the funniest Marvel movies to date, relying on characterbased humor to push through

the darker scenes.

With great performances all around, a strong script and no-nonsense directing, it is exhilarating to watch these characters come together in ways that have never been seen before.

It was a lot of fun to watch some of the biggest egomaniacs in the Marvel universe try to team up together.

For instance, when Iron Man, Doctor Strange and Star-Lord end up stranded on the same planet. Another

interesting aspect of the film was Thanos himself.

Despite being one of the most frightening comic book villains to appear on the silver screen, Thanos was a rather likable character.

Though his methods are violent and seem unusually cruel, the film delves into his personality in a way that makes him seem almost human. There were times when I even found myself sympathizing with Thanos.

Without giving away any spoilers, Avengers: Infinity War has an almost Game of Thrones feel to it, with much-loved characters being defeated in shocking ways.

This will undoubtedly upset many viewers, but it is important to keep in mind that things are not always as they seem.

Infinity War takes cinematic superheroes to a whole new level.

Unlike other Marvel films, which typically have predictable outcomes, Infinity War is unpredictable from the start. You think you know what’s going to happen but then the film surprises you around every turn.

Avengers: Infinity War is without a doubt one of the best Marvel movies I have ever seen.

With the biggest wow factor of the MCU so far, Infinity War is filled with both laughter and tears.

Whether you see this movie as a die-hard comic fan or just a regular movie goer, be prepared for the shocks that are about to come. I know I wasn’t.

By Vanessa Nevarez Staff Writer

Once in while you come across a movie that seems like a cheesy version of a real-life story.

This is definitely not one of those films.

Although I will say it is a bit cliché, so don’t say I didn’t warn you.

Still it is inspirational and shows people exactly why it is important to be yourself, no matter what anyone else thinks.

Amy Schumer shines in her new movie, I Feel Pretty, a revolutionary film about self-esteem and having confidence in yourself.

Schumer portrays Renee Bennett, a woman who deals with constant insecurity, as she struggles to find the confidence to live boldly.

In the movie, Schumer works in a basement as an online representative for a high-end cosmetics company.

Her daily life consists of feeling inadequate and wanting to be a stunning woman.

One day she makes a wish to be beautiful and wakes up believing she has transformed into this gorgeous woman who is capable of anything.

With this newfound faith in herself, she doesn’t care how she looks or what people think of her.

She simply lives as if everything is different.

Renee’s life has completely changed and things are finally looking up.

On the outside however, Renee looks exactly the same.

This leads to some interesting consequences.

In a world that places personal image at the top of the list of happiness, this movie really points out how individual flaws or differences should be cherished.

The cast was not afraid to display the characters insecurities and made them feel real.

The idea that everyone should look a certain way strips away the essence of the person.

It forces them change what makes them unique.

The film relates the issue many woman and men have with low self-esteem.

But it does it in way that touches the audiences heart and makes them laugh at the same time.

I will say that it was hard to watch at times because it reveals the truth about how

people see themselves and how you see yourself.

There was not a dry eye in the movie theater by the end of the film and I know people left with the feeling of relief.

This film has finally said what few people are willing to say.

Being who you are inside and out should be easier, and people who accept themselves as they are usually live happier lives.

I Feel Pretty finds a funny, entertaining and relatable way to convey a meaningful message.

I could not take my eyes off the screen during the entire movie.

This is certainly a movie you’re not going to want to miss.

If you like hilarious, uplifting movies, go see I Feel Pretty.

courtesy photo

Avengers: Infinity War is the most intense, complex and stirring Marvel Cinematic Universe film yet. Though the sheer number of storylines and characters might make it a little challenging for non-hardcore fans, audiences will still be thrilled by this epic film. between Thanos and ultimate destruction is the Avengers.

But can they stop him in time?

Infinity War takes place throughout multiple continents and planets as Thanos and his terrifying henchmen search for the stones and use whatever force is necessary to take them.

This leads to an epic battle of untold proportions with shocking consequences.

As one of the most powerful, complex and emotional MCU films yet, the

courtesy photo

Amy Shumer’s new movie I Feel Pretty brings to light the importance of self esteem and having confidence in yourself, all in a touching, yet humurous way.

Schumer’s new flick inspires

Silence is golden in Krasinski’s new horror film

By Jillian Brooks Staff Writer A Quiet Place, a new horror film released on April 6 of this year, has millions of people on the edge of their seat and afraid to make a single sound.

With massive but necessary jump-scares, great actors and actresses, and new creative, terrifying creatures, it could be the best horror film to be released in a long time.

Being a huge fan of anything taboo, scary, or deemed “creepy”, I fell in love with this concept when I saw the very first preview.

Living in this day and age, everything makes noise.

Even as I am typing on this keyboard, I am making noise.

Our cars, motorcycles, music, even our voices create noise and sound daily. What do you think it would be like if everyone had to suddenly become completely silent, or die?

For those of you who have not seen the film just yet there are slight spoilers ahead!

John Krasinski both acted and directed this film, and he did incredible at both tasks.

He plays the father of a family, whose main task is collecting food like fish and small rabbits, and of course, protecting his children and wife from the nightmare that lurks outside their home.

We see in the first few minutes of the film how terrifying and merciless these monsters can be when Krasinski is unable to protect his family.

After that unspoken scene, the audience truly realizes that this film is about to take them on a wild ride.I would say that this movie is more suspense than horror.

Of course, blind alien-like creatures that sprint on allfours and attack anything that makes any sort of sound is enough to make my bones shake, but the fact that one

of the children in the film is deaf… yes, deaf… takes it to a whole other level.

Like when the creature is creeping up behind her, and she has no idea.

I sat in my movie seat chewing my nails to the nub and wanting to scream, “Turn around! Turn around!”

To me, that makes it an incredible movie.

The jump-scares are not annoying in the least, which is something that makes me proud of this movie.

Most horror films these days are filled with mindless scary faces that pop up in the screen just to give you a bit of a rush, only to not make any sense and disappoint you. A Quiet Place makes each jump-scare necessary to make sure the audience realizes just how quiet the world truly is now that these creatures have invaded Earth.

A Quiet Place is not for the faint-of-heart or the easily startled. The monsters shown

courtesy photo

This gripping, clever horror movie from director John Krasinski is an old-fashioned creature feature with a single, simple hook: The creatures are blind, hungry and navigate by sound. are haunting, and as you leave the theater, you will be careful not to make a single

sound, just as I did. Although it is terrifying, I highly recommend this movie to

anyone that seems interested.

Remember: if they hear you, they hunt you.

May 3, 2018

The Eagle

Page 9

Northeast Texas Community College

SPORTS

staff photo

| mamdy smith

The Eagles congratulate Kyle Moos after his home run in the first inning of game 2.

staff photo

| mamdy smith

Corbin Bozosi fires a pitch to homeplate during game two of the double-header.

Eagles sweep Angelina, clinch a spot in the playoffs The Northeast Texas Community College Eagles secured their spot in the playoffs and moved one step closer to moving toward their goal to win a conference title this past weekend.

The Eagles swept the three-game series against Angelina moving them into the second place spot behind Navarro. The Eagles will face Navarro in a three-game series this week to decide their spot in the playoffs.

Chandler Dean pitched a complete game shutout to help the Eagles take a 7-0 win against Angelina during the first game of a double-header at home on Saturday.

The Eagles had a strong fourth inning scoring a total of five runs including singles by Jordan Martinez, Kyle Moos, and Manny Garcia and a double by Jhosmel Rodriguez.

Dean allowed only four hits and struck out eight during his seven innings on the mound.

The Eagles were strong at the plate racking up 11 hits during the game. Moos, Rodriguez, and Garcia all had multiple hits with Moos leading the team with four hits in four at bats.

Eagles Head Coach said the team’s solid play this weekend helped them move closer toward their ultimate goal.

“We’re still trying to win the conference and this has put us into a good situation,” he said. “We pitched well overall as a staff. We played good; it was a huge weekend.”

In the second game of Saturday’s double-header, Matt Scheurich had a strong showing at the plate going 4-for 5-including a first-inning homerun to help the Eagles take an 11-8. The Eagles got an early lead in the first inning with home runs by Scheurich and Kyle Moos.

After Angelina College scored one run in the top of the sixth, the Eagles answered back with one of their own. Angelina College scored with a sacrifice bunt, scoring one run. The Eagles then singled on a 3-2 count, scoring one run.

Corbin Bozosi took the mound early for the Eagles and surrendered four runs on four hits over one inning, striking out one.

Sean Burgeron pitched two innings for the Roadrunners, allowing eight runs on eight hits and no walks.

The Eagles finished the win with 15 hits including multiple hits by Scheurich, Moos, Taylor Barber and Hunter Thomas.

staff photo

| mamdy smith

Eagle batter Matt Scheurich takes control of the plate during game two against the Roadrunners last weekend.

The Eagles also defeated the Roadrunners 6-3 on Thursday after taking the lead late in the game. The game was tied at three in the top of the sixth when Chase Talbot doubled on the first pitch scoring two runs. The Eagles went on to take the lead with three runs in the sixth inning.

Tyler Navarro started on the mound for The Eagles allowing three runs on six hits over three and two-thirds innings, striking out one and walking one.

Jacob Mead started the game for Angelina lasting six

innings, allowing five hits and six runs while striking out six.

The Eagles put the bat on the ball eight times during the game including multiple hits by John Russ and Taylor Barber.

Morgan said while they played well last weekend, winning the next three games against first place Navarro this week is crucial to taking the conference win.

“We are still in the hunt and we have put ourselves into a position where we can win it,” Morgan said. “We just have to go win it.”

Rodeo team member qualifies for nationals

By Nubia Sanchez Staff Writer Northeast Texas Community Rodeo team member Wyatt Muggli won first place in the NIRA Southern Region for team roping with his partner Colton Brittian from Hill College.

Muggli will represent NTCC at the College National Finals Rodeo in Casper, Wyo. June 8-16.

“I’m excited to be going to my first College National Finals Rodeo as a head coach,” Head Coach Skylar Hunnicutt said. “I think Wyatt has a great opportunity to contend for a national championship and I’m proud to be a part of it.”

The NTCC men’s rodeo team finished sixth overall in the Southern Region.

Zaine Carnahan ended up fifth in the region in the saddle bronc riding; Muggli also finished fourth in the tiedown roping just shy of making the college finals in two events.

Ty Eason finished ninth in the calf roping along with Myles Nieghbors who finished ninth in steer wrestling.

NTCC Athletic Director Andy Morgan said he was pleased to have one of the college’s athletes competing for a national title in rodeo.

“I think it’s awesome to have someone representing NTCC at the rodeo finals and to have people talking about it,” Morgan said.

staff photo

| daniel yanez

Wyatt Muggli ropes a calf during the annual NTCC Kid’s Rodeo held last month.

Eagle softball team mentors local kids

Special to The Eagle

courtesy photo

The Eagle Softball team gathers for a group photo. The athletes were recently recognized with a video by Communities in Schools for their Eagle Pals program. Watch the video at youtube.com/watch?v=0zVDF5_fi1M&sns=em.

The Eagle softball team finished up their season ealier this month, but continue to spend time mentoring and doing other charitable work for local kids. The athletes volunteer with the Titus County Cares Backpack program each Tuesday evening.

A few months ago, the players also began mentoring young girls through their Eagle Pals program as a way to give back to the community.

The volunteer work is a special project for Head Coach Jessica Keith. She said it has been a dream of her’s to develp this type of service project for her players.

“As a coach our job is to mentor our players and help them see what they can’t see in themselves,” Keith said. “We teach life skills and prepare them for this world or for failure and to see that is how we learn.”

Keith said she wanted to start Eagle Pals because there are so many girls who grow up and do not see the type of future they could have.

We have so many youth in this area who need a positive role model to look up to and give support,” she said. “The more youth we have the more it will mean we can mentor. As a team we have one goal. If we can keep these young people heading for a great future, we know we’ve helped.

Page 10

The Eagle

Northeast Texas Community College

May 3, 2018

CAMPUS

Rodeo student, Eric Ewing, thrills the young rodeo fans during an eight second ride at this year’s annual kids rodeo held at the NTCC Priefert Rodeo arena.

From left, NTCC rodeo students Cole Ward, Charles Bullock and Zaine Carnahan offer some young Mount Pleasant students the chance to pet a horse after the kid’s rodeo.

Rodeo student, Wyatt Muggli, shows off his calf roping skills during the performance.

photos by nubia sanchez, jillian brooks and daniel yanez

Barrel racer Sierra Jordan skillfully rounds the second barrel of the clover leaf pattern.

Above: This young rodeo fan takes in the action during the rodeo performance.

Right: Zaine Carnahan, NTCC rodeo team member, bucks out a bronc during the kid’s rodeo.