Director of Development for Ignite Youth Club, Nikki Thomas, shows an after-school group of students how the “Little Free Library” works. She explains to the students the take a book, leave a book concept. Many of the books in the library serve as Accelerated Reader (AR) point material. The library was designed as a part of PTK’s Honors in Action Project.
Phi Theta Kappa members design Little Free Library for local children
By Aiden Camp Staff Writter
Phi Theta Kappa has just completed their Honors in Action Project, a community service project in which students personally take on a community centered need and work to meet that need. On March 6th 2024 they celebrated the completion of their very own little free library.
This “Little Free Library” follows a “take a book, leave a book” system where anyone in the community can come and find free literature to feed the mind. Inspired by the theme “learning through play” Phi Theta Kappa students were in charge of constructing their own passion project to reach students from elementary to middle school age with bilingual books to promote cross cultural exchange between Mount Pleasant’s vast Hispanic community and encourage reading to low income and “underserved” members. Melody Mott describes her students’ inspiration for the project, saying, “Mount Pleasant is a small rural town, so we thought ‘what can we do to help little Mount Pleasant?
Let’s build a little free library!”
When planning the building process for the library Miss Hayes describes their collaboration by saying, “We thought,’ how do we build something like this? What do we do?’ And I said, ‘well, my father builds things! He has over thirty years of building experience; he’s built every home I’ve ever lived in.” Workshops were created for students to learn the basics of carpentry and create a beautiful Aztec inspired library. The Little Library itself is much larger than the typical libraries, the paint job depicting blue and white talavera tiles with yellow marigolds surrounding the base. The colors themselves are associated with Phi Theta Kappa, as well as Aztec mythology. “We’re overachievers,” Athena explains, “this couldn’t be a simple little thing.”
In collaboration with Hayes and her father Michael (M.J.) Hayes, the PTK organization took on this long winded project beginning in the summer 2023 with hours of work extending into the evening planning and assembling the library. Students were responsible for
gathering applications, blueprints, budgeting, and creating the little free library. Their work was extensive, beginning with taking a research trip to Jackson Mississippi to visit Phi Theta Kappa headquarters and learn what the Honors in Action Project aimed to achieve. While visiting the students explored the many
By Liliana Torreblanca Eagle Edtor
Northeast Texas Community College recently hired Russell Radke as the college’s new chief of police as a part of the process to establish its own police department.
The decision to hire Radke was approved by the NTCC college board during its regular February meeting. Radke is the current chief of police at Chapel Hill ISD and is currently working on a part-time services contract with NTCC. He will begin his full-time position at the college in May and will aid in the transition from the college’s current security team to a fully established police department.
Dr. Kevin Rose, senior vice president for student success said Radke’s experience across different facets of police work positions him perfectly to lead the NTCC Police Department.
“As we move forward in the development of the new campus Police Department, the police chief search committee was very excited to recommend Mr. Radke for the position,” Rose said. “While he won’t join us full-time on campus until the middle of May, he has already begun the development of the background material necessary to apply to the Texas Commission on Law Enforcement (TCOLE) for an agency license.”
NTCC President Dr. Ron Clinton said the hiring committee kept the goals of the college in mind while reviewing applications. He said an important consideration was finding someone who was familiar with NTCC’s environment to not change the atmosphere of the open campus.
“We really feel like we have found the right individual to serve as the chief of police,” Clinton said. Clinton said he is hopeful the campus community will feel more secure and that the police department will add more professionalism to the college.
VanDeaver visits campus to discuss Texas House Bill 8 NTCC hires new police chief
By Emma Rae Ward Staff Writter
Texas is the second largest state in the nation, known for its cowboy culture and diverse industries. Within this diversity, many people also take pride in the state’s wealth of education and knowledge of everything from being a businessman and woman, to cowboys and ranchers. Without education, many feel that Texas would not be the successful state that it is today. Texas State Representative for District 1, Gary VanDeaver, continues to be a strong advocate for Texas education. According to his biography on the Texas House of Representatives website, VanDeaver is a “smalltown Texas man who grew up in East Texas and learned the importance of a strong worth ethic, a love for the land, and Faith in God from an early age.”
Earlier this semester, NTCC hosted VanDeaver on its main campus to discuss the topic of House Bill 8, a recently-passed piece of legislation that VanDeaver said is solely focused on “changing the funding method for community colleges” and “focusing on creating credentialing that is specially geared towards their specific area.” HB 8, sponsored by VanDeaver, took effect on Sept. 1, 2023.
See PTK, Page 2 See HB 8, Page 2
Campus celebrates “totality”
By Aiden Camp Staff Writter
Deemed the Great North American Eclipse throughout the media, this week’s eclipse was the first total solar eclipse visible in North Texas since 1878. The event drew nearly 300 students, faculty, staff, and visitors throughout the afternoon to view the astronomical event from the main campus plaza. The viewing party, which offered a photo backdrop, games, music, viewing telescopes and solar eclipse glasses, was an effort between various campus organizations including SGA, PTK, Student Services, and the physics and engineering departments.
Kaymon Farmer, director of student development & inclusion, said the goal of the watch party was to bring people together to show unity within the community. He said the crowd’s reaction was like an emotional roller coaster due to some of the cloud coverage.
“You could hear the ‘oohs’ and the ‘ahhs’ from the crowd, kind of like a sports game,” Farmer said. “Sometimes we had the momentum where we could see it and sometimes the clouds won the momentum.”
Prior to the eclipse party, Northeast Texas Community College Physics Instructor Mark Ellerman hosted an information session on viewing
precautions and the scientific significance of the event.
Though the event was a “once in a lifetime” occurrence, Ellerman said eclipses are not that infrequent.
“Eclipses are not actually very rare,” Ellerman said. “There is a solar eclipse once every two years somewhere on the planet.” Ellerman said it depends on where you live. He added that the rarity is where it happens.
While this is the third eclipse visible from Texas in the past seven years, this was the first total solar eclipse visible in Texas for more than a century.
These events generate a wide following. People will travel from all over to view the eclipse and in fact many hotels from Dallas to Texarkana were fully booked for the event.
While Ellerman said eclipses are a “mathematical inevitability” that typically occur every two years this was an event to remember and it happened right on NTCC’s doorstep.
While the next full solar eclipse is expected to take place in 2026, this part of the world will not be in the path of totality. Those who missed this week’s spectacle, or for eclipse chasers, will have to travel overseas where the path includes parts of Spain, Greenland and Iceland among other small parts of the globe.
liliana torreblanca | staff photo
PTK members recently placed the library in the open lot adjacent to Ignite Youth Club.
liliana torreblanca | staff photo
NTCC physics student Oscar Rodriguez places cameras against one of the viewing telescopes to capture snapshots of the eclipse. Students, faculty, staff and other visitors from the near community gathered on the main plaza to view and capture photos of the once in a lifetime phenomenon.
liliana torreblanca | staff photo
Board
Board recognizes Wilhite as distinguished professor emeritus
Special to The Eagle
During the Northeast Texas Community College Board of Trustees March meeting, the board unanimously approved naming Dr. Paula Wilhite as Distinguished Professor Emeritus. Board Chairman Chuck Johns read the proclamation and Dr. Ron Clinton, NTCC President, presented Wilhite with a special medallion to commemorate the honor.
Distinguished Professor Emeritus is the highest honor bestowed upon retired NTCC
Cont. from page 1
other Little Libraries in the area and took note of what made a successful library and why others were struggling. The Little Free Library is set up in front of Ignite- a local after school program with a large group of kids in the target demographic for the library. Post-COVID, literacy rates have taken a massive decline, predominantly affecting elementary and middle school students. These are important years for reading development and became the perfect target group to gather books for. “It’s so important to promote this sort of thing to give access to books, especially not just books that are bilingual, but chapter books, picture books, to promote that love for reading,” says Hayes. The students of PTK have undoubtedly created a beautiful project, especially as reading programs continue to struggle in a post quarantine environment where several critical years of learning in a classroom were lost. The community of Mount Pleasant
faculty. Past recipients include Dr. Jim Archer, Dr. Shirley Clay, Dr. Mary Hearron, Doug Hoppock, Dr. Winston McCowan and Dr. Ollie Theisen. Wilhite was a member of the inaugural NTCC faculty in 1985 and she retired in 2023.
“We are so pleased to add Dr. Wilhite to the ranks of our Distinguished Professors Emeriti. She positively impacted the lives of so many students and colleagues during her tenure at NTCC and this honor is very well deserved,” Clinton said.
NTCC transitions to full time police department
Cont. from page 1
Clinton said the first step to create the Police Department came about after listening to concerns and recommendations from the college campus community including members of the faculty and staff. A standing safety and security committee was approved by the college board in the last academic school year. The committee’s goal is to support and promote a healthy, safe and secure environment for the entire campus. The committee seeks to ensure that the college’s safety and security policies and practices are current, actionable and effective.
“With the level of concern not just at our campus, but really all over the country because of situations that have occurred, we began to seriously talk about that idea of putting together a police department that would actually be able to respond to certain situations immediately as opposed to relying on our local sheriff’s office and various departments,” Clinton said.
The main NTCC campus sits on a 400-acre countryside setting. While Clinton said it is a “beautiful place to be,” the campus is “a little bit off the beaten path” when it comes to response time by local law enforcement.
Clinton said members of the safety and security committee researched other police departments on college campuses similar to NTCC to make the best decision.
Clinton said establishing the new police department will not be an overnight project
and will likely take two years before it is fully operational.
He said the first two years will be a hybrid setup, which will mean hiring a small staff and part-time security at first, before moving to a full-time police department. Clinton said Radke will spearhead that plan, including hiring personnel. He said that NTCC’s current security team members will have an opportunity to apply for positions.
Clinton said the transition from NTCC’s current security team to the police department will happen over the next few months leading into the fall 2024 semester.
Clinton said over the summer he, Brandi Cave, vice president for administrative services, and Rose, will serve as part of the transition team. Director of Plant Services Tom Ramler, who currently oversees the security team, will also aid in the day-to-day functions as the implementation happens.
Current budgets including start up costs are currently being examined as well. Startup costs include one time expenses such as uniforms, vehicles and equipment.
He said the location of NTCC’s Police Department will likely be the criminal justice building. While the building offers some of the needed infrastructure, Clinton said the police department will require evidence rooms, offices and more, so the current space will need to be looked at and adapted to fit the department’s needs.
banded together to assist on the creation of this project. Thanks to the donations of the Mount Pleasant Public Library, personal donations, and local businesses, PTK was able to obtain approximately three years of reading material that will be circulated throughout the librarythis is not accounting for the community;s continuous exchange of personal book donations throughout the years to come.
Melody Mott describes her pride in the PTK members, “What I see is a bunch of talented individuals who brought all of their special skills to the table. Every single one of them, despite how busy they are- ‘cause you know, they’re still honor students- to see these really top notch students use good coordination, organizational skills, great with community outreach and good at following through? I’m very proud of my students,” additionally adding Phi Theta Kappa’s appreciation for the time and efforts contributed by the Hayes family, “We really appreciate her [Athena’s] help. I don’t think this project would be as nice or as organized if it weren’t for the two of them.”
The bill was passed to codify a new funding system for community colleges like NTCC with a focus on completions and awarding more degrees, certificates and credentials of value to students who might be looking to move right into the workforce. VanDeaver and others who support HB 8 and the allocation of $683 million in the state budget, assert its ability to position. Texas as a national leader in tying funding for community colleges to measurable student-focused outcomes.
The Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board considers credentials of value awarded as badges, certificates, and degrees, that help position graduates for well-paying jobs. Credentials of value are those awarded in high-demand fields where employers are
looking for skilled employees and awards for successful student transfers from community colleges to four-year universities. Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board also considers the completion of a sequence of dual credit courses, which are offered to high school students and can set them on early pathways to success, as credentials of value. NTCC President Dr. Ron Clinton said VanDeaver has always been a champion for education and his work to help establish the new funding model for community colleges is another example of that continued support. “He is a man who really has very strong beliefs, and he believes in education. Obviously, his career was in public school education, and he is an educator through and through,” Clinton said. “He has done so much for community colleges, and we are just grateful for what he’s done.”
courtesy photo
member Chuck Johns reads the proclamation declaring Dr. Paula Wilhite distinguished professor emeritus while Dr. Clinton, left, looks on.
Presidential Scholar presents research on film project
Special to The Eagle
Luke McCraw, the winner of the 2023 Dr. Charles Florio Award for leadership, recently completed his fifth public presentation on his film research this semester in Naples. He is booked for two more presentations.
NTCC’s Presidential Scholar from Mount Vernon was the lead researcher behind the recent Caldwell-Award-winning film on the traveling preachers of early Texas. According to Honors Director, Dr. Andrew P. Yox, “McCraw’s versatility as a local presenter is enhanced by his remarkable knowledge of theology and Scripture. He has adapted his presentation to fit two prayer breakfasts, one in Mount Pleasant through the sponsorship of Tennison Methodist Church, and one through the sponsorship of First Methodist in Naples.” McCraw has also presented his original story at the Mount Pleasant Library, in College Station at the meeting of the Texas State Historical Association and in Stillwater at the meeting of the Great Plains Honors Council. He has both utilized PowerPoint presentations and a poster he constructed
on his research, in which he was assisted by Honors Student Council President, Michelle Calderon.
According to Yox who has been present at all of McCraw’s talks thus far, “McCraw’s presentations are remarkably fluent and detailed. He characterizes all of the story’s main actors, impersonates some of their discourses and presents a dramatized narrative, which ends with the dissolution of Stephen F. Austin’s dream of a secular Texas, and the breaking of his ‘bamboo curtain.’ Typically, he concludes with the film trailer.”
“Though I tried to lean on Luke and encourage him to develop a thesis that stressed how the early Texas preachers were imitators of exemplary Christians before them,” notes Yox, “McCraw has stressed how the altruistic service of the preachers contrasted with the heavy-handed gestures of the Mexican government in Texas before 1836.”
In either case, McCraw’s story accounts for how a place almost devoid of organized religion, became a haven for organized institutions of worship, now numbering over 30,000 in the state.
Annual Northeast student art show on display in Whatley
Special to The Eagle
The Northeast Texas Community College Art Department will hold its annual student art show from Thursday, April 4 through Tuesday, April 30 in the foyer gallery of the Whatley Center for the Performing Arts.
The exhibit will feature student artworks in design, drawing, ceramics, photography, and digital media. A reception will be held Wednesday, April 10 in the Whatley Center foyer at 12:30 p.m. Everyone is invited to come and enjoy the exhibit.
The exhibit is open to the public Monday through Thursday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Friday from 9 a.m. to noon. Please call 903434-8181 to ensure the gallery is open before visiting. Art Professor Mileah Hall said the
student’s work is some of the best they have ever had submitted to the show. She bragged on her students’ work ethic and willingness to learn.
“We definitely have talented students, but I also will say that drawing is a skill to be learned and is not an innate thing that comes,” Hall said. I see progress from every one of them and that just makes my heart sing.”
Hall said she hopes everyone will stop by to view the art pieces and recognize the arts students’ work.
“They need to know what our we are doing out here and they need to know what our kids can do and how talented they are and how hard they work.”
To learn more about the Art department at NTCC, visit ntcc.edu/art
“The
East Texas Giving Day open for early donations
Special to The Eagle
We are less than one month away from East Texas Giving Day and the Northeast Texas Community College Foundation is asking for your support. While East Texas Giving Day is not until April 30, individuals were able to begin giving early online at www.easttexasgivingday.
org/ntccfoundation starting Monday, April 8.
NTCC has been the top fundraiser for this exciting regional event for the last two years, and we would love to keep that momentum going.
“East Texas Giving Day has grown each year and it has become a fun tradition at NTCC. We’ve already had numerous student organizations set up Celebration Pages to make it easy to support their
cause and we can’t wait for early giving to start,” Nita May, NTCC director of Development, said. “While we are planning lots of fun activities for April 30, you do not have to wait until East Texas Giving Day to give.”
NTCC has been awarded a $7,500 matching grant from the Burt and Nancy Marans Charitable Fund, so all gifts up to that amount will be matched at 100%.
Other gifts may be matched by additional grants. Here are a few ways to help support the cause:
• Give online starting Monday, April 8. Even small gifts are appreciated and every dollar goes directly toward helping students.
• If you have a specific cause you’d like to support, please include that information in the “In Honor
Of” section on check out.
• Consider creating a Celebration Page supporting the NTCC Foundation. These are free to set up and allow you to customize your own fundraising goal to share with your friends. Here are links to the Celebration Pages that are already created and ready for donations: CARE Center, Communities In Schools (CIS), Emergency Aid Fund, Sigma Kappa Delta, Phi Theta Kappa, PTA Association, & Summer Success Program.
• Share our posts on social media. Follow NTCC on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter and share our posts leading up to East Texas Giving Day. This goes a long way to helping spread the word. Look for more information as we get closer to April 30.
courtesy photo
Luke McGraw recently presented his research on NTCC Honors’ film project,
Traveling Preachers,” for the fifth time. His work was included in the film adaptation on ministers who traveled across Texas on horseback in the 1800s.
Ceramics is one of the 3D mediums that art students work with in their studio courses. The artwork above is a series of masks designed and created by art student Bre Williams. Her work is currently on display in the Whatley Foyer.
courtesy photo
OPINION
Finding success in an ever-evolving job market
By Aiden Camp Staff Writer
Finding employment and the “job hunting” world has seen an insurmountable change in this ever evolving post-COVID world. The memories of a first job can be fond. For myself, I spent a few days out of the summer of my senior year with my mom driving me from store to store. It was a rhythm I fell into. Mom slowed the car to a stop before the front entrances, and I would dash out of the passenger side door to ask for paper applications that would be returned the next morning. For my most recent position of employment, however, I had submitted nearly a dozen applications online only to be left with no response from 8/10 establishments. As it stands, I am not the only one feeling this shift in the corporate search. In fact thousands of others felt the same. In April 2022, a journalist by the title C House posted an article to the Medium.com forum describing his venture of applying to over 1000 job listings across various online hiring platforms. Preceding his employers sudden shutting down business, House was left scrambling for a replacement role that could match his pay and scheduling. Online applications are described to have been his only success, with over three quarters of today's organizations turning to online filtering at the first stages of their
application process. Of course, applying for a titanic amount of jobs will conjure anticipation for inevitable rejection. However, the results were flooring. Out of approximately 1,363 applications House records filing he was only contacted for 15 interviews- a roughly 1.1% success rate. So what exactly caused such a big shift in labor and demand?
It’s no doubt artificial intelligence made quite a splash upon its mainstream takeover in early 2023. Its presence sparked questions of job security among various occupational fields, such as artists, computer specialists, and even classroom teachers.
Additional changes on “Return to work” policies and unpredictable layoffs due to recession created a highly saturated and competitive environment for job hunters. Coupled with the rise of remote access positions, internet access alone increased the amount of candidates eligible to apply. Thus, comes the needed evolution of an already outdated job market. A field which doesn’t seem to be slowing down as Jim Sykes, a global managing director of operations, states, “Make no mistake, the hiring market is not going to get easier any time soon.”
When asking my own managers what they are currently looking for in employee applications here’s what I found to be helpful: Pay attention to any questions added into the application process. These
questionnaires may seem tedious and unnecessary, however managerial heads will look to these responses first in order to gauge the contenders compatibility for the position.
Expand your interpersonal connections. Familiarize yourself with the manager or staff if possible- speaking to other employees and making a statement by personally shaking hands with the “headhoncho.” These introductions reflect an eagerness and professionalism that make names (and faces) memorable when the hiring staff eventually come across the contender’s resume.
Look to expand on skills that the job may benefit from.
Certifications can be the mark of hard-work for many employers. Familiarity with Microsoft programs such as Word, Excel, and Office are the main trinity of popular applications used throughout corporate jobs. Additionally, any awards, recognition, or personal references assist in creating a strong resume that is sure to earn a well deserved interview.
It is easy to be discouraged when waiting days to hear back from a potential job opportunity.
Adaptation, while scary, is necessary for our current systems to survive. Just as our new generations of students come in to learn to apply for their first jobs so will today's generations be learning alongside them.
Dorm Life 101
By Kaylin Burt Staff Writter
As someone who’s been living in a college dorm for nearly two semesters, I like to think that I know what I’m doing when it comes to dorm essentials. Moving into a college dorm can be scary and overwhelming. Between deciding what classes to take and what supplies to bring it’s all a bit much. One thing no one talks about is how hard it is to do laundry at the dorm, in the unlikely chance that you do find an open washer there are clothes in it. So what should you do? Move them! This doesn’t mean to just throw the wet clothes on the floor but if there’s an unoccupied dryer move them over and leave a note behind on the washer. Having respect for other people’s belongings is the least you can do if you want the same treatment. While on the topic of respect, you’re going to have a roommate and suitemates. When it comes to forming a friendship with your roommate that might not happen, but that doesn’t mean your living situation needs
Eagle Adviser Mandy Smith
to be awkward. You will need to establish rules and be honest about your living habits. If you like to stay up late studying it is crucial that you let your roommate know so they can be prepared.
When preparing to move into the dorm, do it in the morning as early as possible. We live in Texas, it is going to be hot, and it won’t be much colder in the dorms. When deciding what to bring, pack comfortably. Bring anything you can to soften up the beds and chairs. A mattress topper is wonderful and can be used the entire time you live in a dorm. Pillows to put on the desk chair for those long nights spent studying. Cleaning essentials are also a must-have. Things will inevitably get dirty so it’s good to have the supplies on hand when that time comes.
Leaving home behind and going to a new place in a foreign town can be scary. These are some of the things I didn’t see coming so this is my advice for you, don’t be shy to establish respect and rules with the people that you live with. Or else you might be in for a rough semester.
Eagle Adviser Daniel Sanchez
Editor-in-Chief Liliana Torreblanca
Staff Writers
Kaylin Burt, Aiden Camp, Kimberly Odero, Lisa Torrez, Madeline Tumey-Simmons, Emma Rae Ward, Avery Woods
The Eagle is the student newspaper of Northeast Texas Community College and is published online and in print throughout the spring and fall semester.
The opinions expressed do not necessarily represent the opinions of the faculty adviser or the administration of the college. Letters to the editor can be submitted to ntcceagleeditors@gmail.com, letters should be no more than 500 words.
Questions? Comments? email our adviser Daniel Sanchez at dsanchez@ntcc.edu or visit us online at www.ntcceagleonline.com
“Living in my radio”
By Lisa Torrez Staff Writer
Country music has always been a big part of my life. As a child, we listened to Waylon, Merle and Johnny Cash. In my teens and twenties, I listened and danced to Alabama, Reba McEntire, Randy Travis and many others. The storytelling and rhythm of the music was soothing and always took me back to an easier time.
Toby Keith began his music career during the time of some of the all-time greats like George Strait, Garth Brooks, Alan Jackson and Alabama.
“Should’ve Been a Cowboy” was his first hit single, and that was all it took to make him a star. He was a straight-up, tell-it -like-it-is kind of storyteller who everyone loved. He was also easy on the eyes and had the voice of an angel.
Keith has lived in my radio, heart and mind for three decades and will continue to do so until the day I die. I often listen to his music while doing homework, household chores or driving. When my boys were little, I would pick them up from school, and we would “dance to Toby.”
Keith’s dedication to our troops was like no other. For twelve years, he put his own life on the line to entertain them in various overseas locations. His song “American Soldier” was recorded before my son, Korey, joined the military. I can’t help but think of my son
every time I hear it.
“Courtesy of the Red, White and Blue (Angry American)” is my favorite song. Toby wrote it after 9/11 and seemed to say what most of America was thinking at the time, “How dare you come in and bomb our country and think you can get away with it.”
“I Love This Bar” always takes me back to one of my old stomping grounds that no longer exists, The Orange Blossom Special honky-tonk here in Mt. Pleasant. I spent most of the ‘80s and very early ‘90s going there to hang out with friends and dance. Just like the lyrics of the song say, every kind of person you could think of was there partying and having a good time.
During his last television performance at the People’s Choice Country Awards on September 28, he sang, “Don’t Let the Old Man In.” By the end of the song, I was bawling. He was so thin and frail looking. When he and sang though, it was all Toby. The same beautiful voice.
On Feb. 5, 2024, Keith lost his battle with stomach cancer. He was 62 years old. It was a tough day. He kept most of his disease private, while all of fans prayed for a miracle.
So, to you Toby Keith, I raise my Red Solo Cup and say, “Cheers!” You fought the good fight and the battle is over. Enjoy seeing your dad again and jamming with your musical heroes. We’re gonna’ miss you, my friend.
Banning books is not an American tradition
By Angel Weers Guest Writer
In the first eight months of 2023, the American Library Association’s Office for Intellectual Freedom (OIF) recorded 695 censorship attempts of book for a total of 3923 titles being challenged. This is a huge increase from previous years, and one clear indication of the societal tension Americans are participating in at present.
Most anybody on the spectrum of political values would claim to be looking out for “our country”, displaying patriotism with their views. However, many of them seem to willfully ignore the fact that censorship not only flies in the face of one of the primary foundations of our national values, it robs parents of their right to be the only entity limiting their family’s access to information.
It is widely known and accepted that the books often being challenged are those that deal with sexuality of some type. Sexuality in our society has taken on such a weight of criticism and judgment that we seem to have strayed far beyond protection of children and into the realm of denial of natural processes. Many in our society have gone from trying to keep children innocent to actually twisting
their perceptions of what is normal or hiding it from them completely. Prior to the 19th century it was common for families to sleep together in the same room, and for all members of the family to view and be involved with animal husbandry including breeding, pregnancy and birth. In trying to protect our children from malicious individuals, we may actually be making them perfect victims by keeping them ignorant. Books are one of the most powerful forces in our society. Reading can teach a skill that one does not have access to learn in person. Books allow people to envision worlds they cannot see in real life, and they give the opportunity to “walk in another man’s shoes”.
Professor Christine Seifert of Westminster College has written a report for the Harvard Business Review on how fiction actually helps development of empathy and also increases critical thinking skills.
I do not believe that reading materials should ever be made wholly unavailable in a library. While there are some general guidelines for books that should be observed, it is up to a parent or caregiver to limit what their children read. If a family member is concerned, there are plenty of sources to help them become familiar
with the type of material that is in any given book. Those that are truly worried should be able to search their child’s assigned reading for the year and opt out of items that they feel their family members are not ready to process. However, limiting reading materials purely on the basis of disagreement with the ideas being presented is only robbing young people of the opportunity to learn discernment and formulate ideas and opinions of their own. The United States of America has a long history of fighting for the right to information and education. In 2022, a survey on Voter Perceptions of Book Banning by The Every Library Institute reported that 50% of voters believe books should never be banned, less than 20% support banning those about race and Critical Race Theory, while 33% support bans of books that “discuss sexuality” (“Report”). Restricting access to ideas and information violates the spirit of the First Amendment. Although, entities that do not receive federal money are not technically required to observe that right, it is a cornerstone of our American values and should be upheld as much as possible. Doing otherwise is simply… unAmerican.
cartoon by avery woods
The legacy and music of Toby Keith
Greetings from the NTCC farm
Welcome to the Northeast Texas Community College agriculture farm where sustainable practices and a diverse range of animals create a thriving ecosystem. The NTCC farm offers education and hands-on experiences for students seeking a degree or completion of certifications.
At the NTCC farm, a variety of different animals can be found from ducks and donkeys to chickens and cattle, which all contribute to the working farm. None of this is without the help of Agriculture Director Rene McCraken who works through snow, rain, bad and good days.
The NTCC farm is also home to three greenhouse that are always filled
with lots of plants and flowers. The agriculture department produces tons of vegetables and other crops every year.
The plants are sold at farmers markets or during certain holidays like Valentine’s Day when the agriculture club sales aloe vera plants to the campus community.
The profits help the department continue to grow and allows more students to learn sustainable agriculture practices.
At the NTCC farm, sustainability is the core of everything the farm does from having natural pest control to growing plants for shade to reduce heat in their building. To keep
the farm’s soil healthy, they have created a system where animals are rotated allowing the grass and soil to stay healthy while having both animals and vegetation on the farm.
The agriculture building is also home to the student Ag Club that allows students to compete in TJCAA winning multiple awards.
The NTCC Ag department also supports high school FFA programs throughout the local area. The farm invites the members of the community to explore, learn and engage with them as they continue to grow.
Welcome to the NTCC farm where sustainability thrives and learning never stops.
AGRICULTURE
Who lives on the farm?
Geese
Kunekunes
There are a total of 17 Kunekune pigs currently living on the NTCC farm. Kunekunes are known to be very docile and friendly. Some of their distinctive characteristics are their short snouts, floppy ears and the wattles that hang from their lower jaw. These pigs are excellent additions for any farm according to Ikkps.org. “Kunekunes are highly adaptable to various climates and can live in both hot and cold environments.” They are also amazing grazers and help to manage pasture areas by rooting weeds and turning over soil, which helps improve soil health. Overall Kunekunes are very friendly, easy to work with and have the cutest of faces.
NTCC has a flock of 28 geese that are currently nesting. Geese like mules and donkeys are considered guard animals. Geese are vocal and will alert farmers that a threat is nearby keeping other animals and themselves safe. According to animaldiversity.org, Geese help the soil not only by using their manure but also by creating holes when forging. When a goose forges, it tends to create small holes in the ground helping the soil aeration by introducing oxygen into the new hole, which improves the soil structure and helps root growth for future crops and vegetation. Geese are social animals and thrive in communities, making them a great addition to farms.
A Donkey
There is currently only one donkey living on the NTCC farm, and he plays an important role. Donkeys are very intelligent and will assist in tasks like pulling carts and plowing fields. They are also very social animals and can provide companionship to other farm animals, reducing stress. Donkeys are also have a very protective nature and will often defend other animals from predators like coyotes, foxes and snakes. In summary, donkeys are a great addition to any farm as a guardian, a helper and a companion.
Cattle
The NTCC farm has over 65plus cattle. The known breeds at NTCC include Angus, Herford, and Santa Gertrudis offering students a chance to work with a diverse group of cattle. Cattle aid in pasture management and provide a sustainable source of meat and dairy products for farmers nationwide. Additionally, cattle are also utilized in the rodeo industry where they are trained and showcased in various events like team steer roping, calf tie-down roping , bull riding and other rodeo events. They also produce rich manure, which further supports pasture health, helping farmers effectively keep soil dark, fertile, and rich in nutrients, promoting healthy crop growth and sustainable farming practices.
Chickens
Goats
The NTCC farm has a herd of goats currently increasing in numbers as many female animals give birth baby goats, also known as kids. Goats are extremely valuable to any farm, firstly they are excellent grazers and can efficiently clear land and unwanted vegetation. Goats like chickens produce manure that can be used as fertilizer to grow healthy pastures. Most goats like the ones at NTCC have a very docile nature and love being petted. Furthermore, goats are excellent livestock to have. They play a vital role in sustainable agriculture by contributing to soil health, pasture and land management.
There are three ducks living on the farm, and believe it or not, ducks are also very important to a farms in America. Ducks are beneficial additions to any farm. They are good forgers and are a natural pest control for farms. Ducks will eat insects, snails and even slugs making them an amazing pest control that reduces the need for chemical pesticides and provides a more economical, and ecofriendly environment for both the farmer and the animals. Like many animals, their manure is packed with rich nutrients that help pastures and the soil that resides on our earth. Ducks are very versatile and are beneficial additions to farms for sustainable agriculture by supporting an eco-friendly solution to pests and keeping soil fertility. This makes ducks valuable assets to farm ecosystems.
Ducks
There is currently only one mule living on the NTCC farm. He is 22 years old and is a gentle giant. Mules play many important roles on the farms they reside on. They are able to aid in plowing, cultivating and transportation. Mules are also sometimes utilized for recreation activities. According to Spana.org Mules are hardier, eat less and live longer than horses of an equivalent size.” Making mules are easy and low maintenance animals. A cool fact is that a mule can kick backwards, forward and sideways. Mules like the donkey are territorial and will help keep the other livestock safe making them great companions.
A Mule
Turkeys hold significant importance on American farms for several reasons. The main for food. On the NTCC farm, there is a particular turkey by the name of Tom who is not very keen on anybody carrying a 5-gallon bucket. He often chooses to attack, but besides that he’s a nice and beautiful turkey. Turkeys also produce manure that is rich in nutrients, serving as a natural fertilizer that enhances soil fertility and promotes healthy crop growth. Overall, turkeys are essential components of American farming, contributing to food production, pest management and soil health.
There are 38 hens and two roosters living at the NTCC farm. They all have very distinctive personalities. Farms benefit from chickens in many different ways, one way is by producing eggs for consumption or sale they also help the farm by eating insects and small rodents keeping the farm free of pests. Another way chickens help the farm is by producing manure that helps the soil stay healthy. Chickens play a crucial role in any farm by controlling pests, producing eggs and of course keeping the soil healthy.
Turkeys
on the NTCC farm. Guineas are particularly effective at controlling tick populations. This is important because ticks are known for bringing a number of diseases, so keeping the population as low as possible is rather important. They are also amazing at guarding animals, although they are small, they are quite feisty and will keep snakes, foxes and rodents away. They are very easy to raise and can have versatile housing options allowing economical flexibility. In brief, guineas are low maintenance, docile and remarkable guard animals.
Guineas are cute little birds that look like they’re wearing dresses when they run. There are currently nine guineas living
photo illustrations | liliana torreblanca
Piglets, kids and the miracle of life
By Liliana Torreblanca Eagle Editor
Kunekunes is an adorable small breed of pigs from New Zealand. They are known for being very docile and friendly companions. kunekunes became a regularly-used word at the Northeast Texas Community College agricultural department since the first original Kunekune breeding pair arrived on the farm July 17, 2021.
Over the winter break, Agriculture Director Rene McCraken helped an eight-year-old female kunekune named Chive, welcome eight piglets of her own into this world. Sadly only six of those piglets survived and are now thriving and enjoying the mud between their little toes.
A few weeks after Chive gave birth, another female kunekune who goes by number 41 also gave birth to four little bundles of joy. McCracken said while some may think it is a difficult job to help the sows give birth, it is not something she considered hard. “The babies come out so aware you don’t have to take the afterbirth, and you don’t have to do anything with the navel cord. They come out, and they are like where is the food.”
She did say that one thing that is difficult is keeping them warm right after they are born. McCraken said, “I had to keep them warm and make sure they didn’t get cold.”
On the morning of Dec. 8, 2023, McCraken sent out an email calling for donations of towels and blankets. This was to be able to hold and wrap them up and keep them warm while Chive was in giving birth. The babies could have easily passed away due to the cold temperature. McCraken explained that when the sow is giving birth the piglets will try and nurse, but the sow will not allow them to nurse until after she is completely finished giving birth.
Another issue that is found while taking care of pigs is that they can easily get sick and develop pneumonia. Chives’ first litter was delivered in 2021 was 8 piglets, but she unfortunately lost one to pneumonia so this year the agricultural department is keeping a close eye on the piglets. McCraken said one of the measures that are being taken include making sure all the piglets are eating and growing in a healthy environment.
One of number 41 piglets already received the name “Special.” The reason behind the name is quite literally unique. Kunekunes
have distinct characteristics that separate them from other breeds, one of them being their little wattles or Piri Piri’s that hang from their little squishy faces. On the other hand, Special decided one of his wattles would be on his neck where it was supposed to be and another on his ear making him unique to his siblings and other pen mates.
Professor McCraken said, “They have to have the waddles that hang on their neck at least one or they can’t be registered that a part of the standard that the association that they say they have to meet in order to be registered.” Thankfully although he is different, he will still be able to be registered. His malformation does not affect his way of living, and he will be able to live a normal and healthy life.
Today the NTCC agriculture department is housing 10 kunekunes piglets. They also house four female and three male adults that are just adorably perfect as well. Currently there is a possibility that two more female Kunekunes might give birth, but we are not quite sure yet.
The NTCC agriculture department has four different goat breeds, Spanish goats who are known for their curved horns, kiko, that are
usually bearded, angora, that are usually short, and everybody’s favorite myotonic goat also known as the fainting goat. Currently there are around 17 kids and 21 adult females that are bred and waiting to give birth. McCracken said we could potentially have up to 42 kids. The farm also has nine young females who will not be having kids. The Ag department also houses three male billy goats.
On March 23, the first two baby goats were born. As this story is being written, the number is still growing with the most recent mama goats having a total of three kids. McCracken said the hardest part about kidding is making sure the doe or female goats are separated from the herd before they give birth. This process is done so the baby goats bond correctly with there mother.
McCracken explained the goats were originally brought for sustainable practices utilizing them for the agriculture’s muscadine vineyard. Later McCracken realized that goats were also not only sustainable but could also be profitable. Goatsare also social animals, and can be great co-grazers alongside cattle.
McCracken plans to introduce the babies to the community by hosting goat yoga in the near future.
This year’s homestead fair took place in early March on the Northeast Texas Community College Ag Complex. This is the second time that the farm has hosted homestead fair.
The NTCC Ag department partnered with Sustainable Agriculture Research and Education to host the event, which included various activities to improve the communities knowledge on agriculture.
Members of the community had the opportunity to learn how to build healthy soil, gardening basics, greenhouse growing, backyard poultry and goat meat production. The event was completely free to the public.
McCracken was able to bring keynote speakers Matt and Jerica Codman from Shady Grove Ranch in Jefferson, Texas to speak to the attendees. The Codmans are sustainable farmers who have gone through many challenges.
Mr. Codman faced ulcerative colitis, a serious health issue, that according to doctors could end his life. He said thanks to discovering the benefits of grass-fed dairy and beef he was able to surpass the doctors’ prognosis and now the couple are able to share their story with others. They also have created branches in Shreveport, Jefferson, Longview, Tyler, and Marshall Texas where they produce grass fed beef, pasture-raised eggs, chickens, pork, and turkey with no hormones, no cides, no GMOs and no soy. For more information on the Codman Family visit their website, shadygroveranch. net.
The Ag club contributed a lunch of chicken stew, cornbread, tea and cookies. Another popular activity held during the event, and one of the most anticipated, was the seed swap offering members of the community an opportunity to bring their favorite seeds to swap with others.
During the lunch break the soil health documentary “Kiss the Ground” was featured during the homestead fair.
The documentary explains the potential of agriculture and how community members can combat climate change through sustainable practices. The film dives into how healthy soil plays a crucial role in controlling carbon dioxide and how agriculture can help the atmosphere by keeping the soil healthy.
“Kiss The Ground” aims to inspire its audience to take action to keep soils and pastures healthy on both large and small farms. Even small gardens are part of the soil that can help fight climate change and keep the earth healthy. The film has won a total of 25 awards, including the London Independent Film award, the DOC LA Storyteller Award, and many more. For more information on the NTCC ag department and future events, visit ntcc.edu/ag or email rmccracken@ntcc.edu.
Each of the farm’s animals were highlighted as participants enjoyed a hayride around the Ag complex with NTCC work camper, Jan Shirley.
liliana torreblanca | staff photo
NTCC Ag club member Maria Torreblanca displays packets of seeds that she received during the seed swap at the Homestead Fair. The seed swap is always one of the most popular activities held during the event. Hundreds of seed packets were swapped among those attending.
McCracken, far right, introduces keynote speakers Jerica and Matt Codman during the Homestead Fair.
liliana torreblanca | staff photo
Those attending enjoy a meal of chicken stew and cornbread prepared by the Ag club members.
liliana torreblanca | staff photo
liliana torreblanca | staff photo
Men’s rodeo team sets sights on NIRA finals
NTCC men’s rodeo team is currently sitting third in the Southern Region. The top four teams of each region make it to the finals in Casper, Wyoming each year. Several of the mens team members are also vying to make the finals in their individual events. The top two in each event make the finals.
Play ball!
By Mandy Smith and Emma Ray Staff Writers
The Northeast Texas Community College men’s rodeo team is currently sitting third in the Southern Region of the National Intercollegiate Rodeo Association.
The top two teams from each of the 11 regions make it to the finals in Casper, Wyoming in June.
With two rodeos left in the season, the men’s team is 758 points behind the secondplace team, Sam Houston State University, and 1,120 points behind first place, McNeese State University.
Head Coach Justin
Hampton said athletes from both the men’s and women’s teams are putting forth the effort to make it to the finals.
“Both teams are trying to finish strong at our last two rodeos of the 23-24 season to hopefully carry us into the College National Finals Rodeo,” Hampton said.
On the women’s team, Jill White is sitting in eighth
place in the breakaway roping, and Mackenzie Mayes is currently ninth in barrel racing. The top three individual athletes from each event also make it to the college rodeo finals.
Hampton said several members of the men’s team are right on the verge of making it to Casper this summer.
“We are really excited to see the outcomes from our top point-gettters,” Hampton said. “Kelon Andrews is in second place and is in a great position to make the College National Finals. Coy Evan has done a great job in both his events this year and is looking strong in the allaround as well.”
Others rounding out the top three include Brennan Wilson. “He has a great chance in the heading and the tie-down roping to be a part of the Eagle Team that heads to Casper June 9-15,” Hampton said. The team travels to Wharton this weekend, and Hill College for the final rodeo of the season in April.
Eagles baseball sweeps
Paris in three games
By Lisa Torrez Staff Writer
With 11 games left in the regular season, Northeast Texas Community College Eagle baseball (28-17) currently sits in third place, four games back from the top spot. Navarro College is currently first with Tyler Junior College in second. NTCC has a small cushion ahead of fourth place, Panola College.
The reason for their current success is they have great chemistry, staying healthy, love to compete and hold each other accountable.
Head Coach Andy Morgan said the team is still fighting hard to get into the first place spot. He added that the most important thing is to keep all the players healthy and keep moving forward.
“The guys are doing a good job. They’re
playing really hard. They compete really hard,” he said.
The Eagles just finished a three-game series against Paris Junior College, winning all three games. During game two of Saturday’s double header, Mt. Pleasant’s own Braden Duff hit two grand slam home runs.
He went 4 for 4 in the game with 10 RBI’s. Coach Morgan said it was the first time in his coaching career that one of his student athletes had hit two grand slams in a single game.
The region 14 tournament starts on May 9. Region 14 North has seven teams and South has six teams. The top four teams from each division will make it to the tournament. The first-place teams will host the tournament.
“They seem to be doing the little things it takes to win,” said Morgan. “
Eagles pitcher Dalton Hill prepares to release a pitch in game one of Saturday’s double header against Paris Junior College. The Eagles swept the three-game series against with the Dragons. The two teams began the series on Wednesday, April 3 in Paris and finished up at home.
lisa torrez | staff photo
Eagles softball has struggled to get ahead during the spring season, but the players continue to battle hard as they move further into conference play. The team still has several games to play before they finish up the season.
justin hargrove | courtesy photo
justin hargrove | courtesy photo
mandy smith | staff photo
ENTERTAINMENT
‘The Color Purple’ 1985 Film still resonates with fans
By Aiden Camp Staff Writer
From destroying the boundaries of distance, to painting a bittersweet story of self discovery and sisterhood, “The Color Purple” displays profound beauty in its story telling of sisters Celie and Nettie. Directed by Steven Spielberg and based off of the novel “The Color Purple” by Alice Walker, this film highlights a southern black woman and her struggles with race, sexism, and violence.
From a young age our protagonist Celie has a very limited support system- found only in her sister Nettie. Their relationship is symbolized in small hints of purple flowers throughout the background, a representation of joy and peace they find in one another.
Nettie is portrayed as Celie’s superior from outsiders, favoring her beauty and intelligence, while Celie is described as ugly throughout the film and even regarded as a maid in her household. This can be seen when the girls’ father refuses to marry Nettie off to Celie’s later husband “Mister ‘’ due to his own attraction and possessiveness to her.
Their father compromises to give Mister possession of Celie due to her complacent nature. Upon the film’s initial release it was faced with controversial feedback with claims the film inappropriately stereotyped black men as violent or villainous with its repeated depictions of abuse and reference to incest.
While the film received mixed responses, these themes were equally as
described to be important to the experiences of what many black women in the community experienced throughout history.
Celie, played by 29-yearold Whoopie Goldberg, is astoundingly written throughout the film. As an audience member, we are lost and invested in the sister’s struggles following Celie as they look to the future, and equally devastated when they are inevitably pulled apart again.
The purple flowers wink in and out of view as the sisters are torn apart in tearsdrawing out a mourning as we see the joy symbolized in Celie slowly dissipate.
While her conditioning into her new domestic life is brutal I have never seen a more beautiful depiction of a character’s descent into ‘dullness.’
Celie loses her fight, loses her hope to hear from her sister again, and travels her day to day in the backgrounds of the rest of the cast as she continues to face violence and verbal abuse by Mister and his children. Celie’s dialogue is reduced to nothing but a few words for a large portion of the film as she takes on the role of the ‘complacent wife’ in order to survive.
The audience comprehensively understands why Celie has become this way, and in this role her interactions with the rest of her family become more impactful as she is an active observer in her own life.
When her family speaks to her we see her taking in their words and piecing together her own identity- deciding
what would and would not define her.
Mister and Celie’s power dynamic begins to shift with her discovery of self-identity and Mister’s revealed deceit. Celie finally learns how to fight.
A notion that had always been described by her as foreign. “I’m poor, Black, I may even be ugly, but dear God, I’m here! I’m here!” she declares. With each scene the flowers begin to return and the audience sees Celie developing her own happiness, an important message and demonstration of her drive to escape the cult of domesticity she has consistently been trapped into.
Celie and her life are immortalized on screen, telling the tale of a black woman’s drive to fight for her life in a world pinned against her at every corner.
With the film’s recent readaptation in October 2023, it is worth a watch to appreciate the predecessor to such a wonderfully poignant movie.
The driving force of this feature film is found in highlighting the struggles African American women faced even in their own households, and reminding the audience of their presence in history which is often repressed behind the perpetuation of the patriarchy of the 19th century. In sum,
The Color Purple (1985) is an impactful message of female empowerment through sexism, violence and race- a moving movie classic that is sure to draw out a few tears
Beyonce offers her version of country in the release of her latest album, “Cowboy Carter” in late March. According to Billboard, she is the first Black woman to lead the list of top country albums.
Country gets a new sound
By Maddie Tumey-Simmons Staff Writer
You can take Beyonce out of Texas, but she has proven you can’t take Texas out of Beyonce in her new country album, “Cowboy Carter.” Beyonce, best known for her role in pop and R&B, has taken country for a spin with the new country album featuring 27 songs and eight collaborations. The album took five years to complete.
“Cowboy Carter” has been a controversial topic of debate when it comes to the genre and theme of the overall album, but the music is a beautiful combination of western country, pop, and soul.
With that said, I recommend this album to people open to exploring different genres of music and sound. For all those strictly oldfashioned, country purist, and you know who you are, this album is probably not in your best interest. But, for the rest of us, it is an amazing album.
The majority of the album’s songs are upbeat, catchy and poetic, providing a variety of styles for the listening audience. Starting off with the highly anticipated cover of Dolly
In the 1985 film, a young Whoopi Goldberg portrays Celie in a way that touches hearts and engages the audience in the struggles of young Black women in the early 20th century. Even with the release of the modern adaptation, the original Spielberg film still holds a special place with fans.
Losing oneself at Saltburn
By Kaylin Burt Staff Writer
Directed by Emerald Fennell, the movie “Saltburn” has several different aspects all displayed neatly in the twohour time span.
“Saltburn” mainly takes place in the United Kingdom during the summer of 2007. The main character, Oliver is a first-year college student at Oxford University.
Over the school year he meets and befriends Felix Catton. At the end of the school year, Oliver is invited to spend the summer at Saltburn.
When Oliver arrives at Saltburn he meets the rest of the Catton family; James, Elspeth and Venetia. As soon as Oliver arrives it is apparent that he is not used to such a lavish lifestyle, but with time he grows to like it.
When it comes to the plot of the movie, it is not for everyone. A central part of the story revolves around the wealthy Cattons and how they see outsiders as “toys.”
Parton’s “Jolene,” all I can say when I’m listening to it is, “FIRE!” Beyonce gave the traditional “Jolene” a hard time in this new rendition, changing the original tone set by Dolly in the best way possible. It was filled with unexpected, yet exciting new lyrics that were approved by “Dolly P” herself. Beyonce belts out the new lyrics , “Jolene, Jolene, Jolene, Jolene, I’m warning you, don’t come for my man!” This automatically made me clutch my pearls and scream, because what a twist!
Another highlighted song I personally recommend is “Daughter.” The lyrics were poetic and descriptive, providing a story to the song. Beyonce’s vocals seemed almost angelic after adopting Italian opera into this musical piece. The track starts off dark, yet alluring and continues to be nothing but heavenly.
“Country Carter” also features well-known artists and pioneers in the music industry including Willie Nelson, Linda Martell, Dolly Parton, Miley Cyrus and so many more. Every song and transition feels like peeping into each gift on Christmas morning wondering what you’re going to get next.
I would define this film as being a drama with minor thriller characteristics, and if you’re a fan of those elements, you will find yourself enjoying this movie.
Another aspect that I appreciated in the movie was the cinematography. “Saltburn” was filmed in a real manor in the United Kingdom. The use of a real building instead of a set design made for many notable and beautiful shots.
The thought that was put into the camera work made for a picturesque film with many what some might call “Movie Poster Moments”
There were many components of this movie that I enjoyed. A highlight
“Saltburn” is set in the United Kingdom and shares the life of a young man who gets caught up in the lavish lifestyle of the wealthy.
of the movie is the casting and how well the actors executed their roles.
Barry Keoghan plays the main character Oliver Quick, The devotion shown for this role can be seen in almost every scene throughout this movie. Keoghan did an amazing job portraying Oliver on so many levels. The undertones of the character and his motives never came to the surface until the very end of the movie.
The choice of music was very telling of the time but wasn’t prominent enough to take the focus away from the movie. A significant amount of this movie involves party scenes and the incorporation of upbeat, but not overwhelming music worked in favor of the film. There are a handful of scenes in which the songs are used to convey the feelings and intentions of different characters. When it comes to the plot of the movie, it’s not for everyone. A central part of the story revolves around the wealthy Catton and how they see outsiders as “toys.” I would define the movie as being a drama with minor thriller characteristics, and if you’re a fan of those elements you will find yourself enjoying this movie.
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courtesy photo
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courtesy photo
Parasite research heats up
Northeast students discover new parasite species
By Lisa Torrez Staff Writer
The Black River runs through Black Rock, Arkansas with its crystal-clear water which makes it easy to catch fish. This is where Northeast Texas Community College’s own Dr. Chris McAlister, professor of biology, and several of his students spent their spring break studying parasites.
“Dr. Mac,” as he is known by his students on campus, described the experience as “one of the top field trips” of his lifetime.
George Burrows and Michael Rodriguez, two of Dr. Mac’s independent research students, both traveled to the Black River during the short break in March. While the two students have different career tracks, both enjoy studying organisms and spending time outdoors.
Locally, Burrows and Rodriguez have been collecting millipedes and centipedes to study. Soon they will also begin “trapping” gophers to collect and study parasites. When the barn swallows migrate back to the area, they plan to collect fecal samples from those and study the protist parasites that are in the animals’ guts.
Because of the murky waters in the east Texas area, Dr. Mac, Burrows and Rodriguez have been unable to study any fish. Therefore, in general, not a lot of work has been done in Texas on myxozoans, the group of parasites they study.
However, the Black River offered the group an opportunity for clear water fishing where they could more easily collect fish and turtles using the shocker method, a technique in which a machine sends a shockwave and temporarily shocks the organisms, so they rise to the top. Dr. Mac said using the shocker is difficult because it requires crystal clear spring fed water.
During their time there, the students were
able to learn from other field experts Dr. Don Cloutman (Kansas), Dr. TJ Fayton (New Hampshire), Eric Leis (Wisconsin), and Logan Robison (Mississippi).
Each morning, the group hit the ground running. They set up the “Mac Lab,” a colleague would go out on the river and fish, bring the fish back and put them in a large vat with a bubbler, so they could study the parasites on the gills of the fish.
As a bonus, they also got to work on turtles. Fayton assisted Burrows and Rodriquez in dissecting and studying the turtles.
“While taking this course I’ve decided that wildlife conservation is the route for me, that is what I want to do,” Rodriguez said. “I love the outdoors. That is mainly the reason why. I’ve loved it so far.”
The most important thing they accomplished on this trip was the opportunity to describe, or discover, 12 to 15 new parasite species.
Dr. Mac has sent leeches from the turtles to the Smithsonian for identification and myxozoans specimens from a top minnow to a molecular biologist for DNA analysis.
These myxozoans are usually on the gills, scales or fins of the fish, but they were found in their gut.
Burrows and Rodriguez will soon be graduating. However, Rodriguez plans to take a two-hour independent study course during the upcoming summer. As part of the independent study, Rodriguez and Dr. Mac will travel to Oklahoma to attend the North American Native Fishes Association meeting to work with fish.
Dr. Mac said the good thing about parasitology is there isn’t much competition. The competition is in his lab. While Dr. Mac said there are some parasitologists east of the Mississippi River who could be considered competition, they rarely come west of the Mississippi. The samples they collect on the east side of the Mississippi are not the same
Veterinary Assistant begins this summer
The Northeast Texas Community College Continuing Education Department is pleased to announce that it will offer a new Veterinary Assistant program this summer. Classes will be held May 28 through August 27 on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 6:00-9:30 p.m. on the main NTCC campus. Instruction includes 100+ hours in the classroom, plus an optional 40-hour externship. The total cost is $1,900 and a generous payment plan is available. Some
students may be eligible for financial aid.
“We have had many requests for a veterinary assistant program and we are thrilled to be able to fulfill that demand. The class meets in the evenings, so it’s a great option for working adults who are interested in changing careers,” Jimmy Smith, NTCC director of Continuing Education and Corporate Training, said.
To learn more about the Veterinary Assistant program visit ntcc.edu/vetassist or call 903434-8134.
as the samples they would collect on the west side.
“We’ve got a great niche. That’s the beautiful thing about working in the area that I’m working in,” Dr. Mac said. “We’re studying parasites, and in some instances, studying them in fish for the very first time, ever since the 1600s, 1700s, and 1800s, before they even had microscopes to even study them.”
This weekend, the group will give individual oral presentations at a meeting in Kingston, OK. Those attending the meeting will be parasitologists including undergraduate and
graduate students and professors. Some of the older parasitologists wrote some of the current parasitology textbooks.
Rodriguez and Burrows will get to meet world famous parasitologists who study different areas of parasitology including tapeworms, trematodes, and amoebas, and some medically important ones.
Dr. Mac said his two students will be the only individuals at the conference presenting on myxozoans.
“I’m really looking forward to that because I know that will be the icing on the cake for these two guys in this course,” Dr. Mac said.
Group photo from left to right: Dr. Mac, Dr. Don Cloutman (Kansas), Dr. T. J. Fayton (New Hampshire), Eric Leis (Wisconsin), George Burrows, Logan Robison (Mississippi), and Michael Rodriguez at Big Creek, Fulton County, Arkansas.
NTCC students George Burrows and Michael Rodriguez spend time in the lab conducting additional research on some of the findings they discovered during their trips to the Black River.
As part of their research to study parasites, Burrows and Rodriquez use the shocking technique to harvest fish in Arkansas’ Black River.
CAMPUS LIFE
Professors Rex Allen and Jennifer Sparks view the early start of the eclipse.
Some students even brought their little ones to school so they could share the historical event with them.
NTCC athletes take a break from their practices to watch the solar eclipse.
Students dive into the exciting experience of viewing the wonder of the total solar eclipse through the physic department’s telescopes.
