Richard Simmons

by Jacob Tucker, feature editor

Richard Simmons has helped millions of people around the world lose weight, but he had to help himself before he could help others.

His life began on July 12, 1948 in New Orleans, La.  But he had not always been known to the public as ‘Richard.’

"I started my life out as Milton Simmons," said Simmons. 

Simmons also learned how to gain the attention of people at a very young age.  He developed a strong sense of humor and witty charm as he sold pralines to people from a small street corner within New Orleans.

Original 'Rocket Boy' Points Students Skyward

by Jacob Tucker, feature editor

Quentin Wilson grew up as a curious boy.  Little did he know, his curiosity would gain the attention of the entire nation.

Wilson was a ‘Rocket Boy.’  He acquired his fame alongside fellow students Homer Hickam, Jr., Willy Rose, Jimmy O’Dell Carroll, Roy Lee, and Sherman Siers.  They teamed together during the fall of 1957 to build rockets.

Israeli Students Find Refuge in America

by Amelia Gonzales, staff writer

For so many Americans, it is almost impossible to imagine what life would be like not knowing what will happen to everyone you love tomorrow.

The ongoing crisis in Israel has been an overwhelming factor in the day-to-day decisions of the thousands of civilians there. It is somewhat difficult for many to focus on the lives that are being affected with the overwhelming focus on politics and failed compromises with other countries.

Student Ensembles Rock Campus

by Jennifer Conlee, co-news editor

There are many reasons why students from all over the world decide to come to SPC to pursue an education.  One of the top reasons is for the school’s highly-revered commercial music program.

The Creative Arts Building houses this program, and it is one of the most popular hangouts for SPC students, even those who are not commercial music students.  The hallways are always full of musicians playing guitars, singing, and having a good time.

Donatelli Shares Love of Art With Students in Classroom

by Anjuli Blair, editor assistant

Kara Donatelli has made it her life’s passion to teach art and art history to her students, as well as create her own works of art. 

Donatelli, instructor of art at South Plains College, grew up in Meadville, Pennsylvania, a small town north of Pittsburg.   As a child, she lived with her mother and older sister. Her favorite childhood activities included arts and sports.  She played softball, was on the track team, took ballet and was a gymnast. 

Fountain 'Pierces' Students, 'Tatoos' with Personal Experience

by Desiree Mendez, circulation manager

Fountain said he started learning how to pierce and tattoo in 1981 because he was in the right place at the right time. He said he decided to become a pierce because he spent many years watching people do piercings the wrong way and he felt that he had to do something about it.