Club shoots photos

Rocks create fun

Tahlequah Camera Club combines education and competition.

See page 7

Tahlequah Rock and Mineral club promotes geology education.

See page

Vo l u m e 1 0 4 , I s s u e 3 4 Tu e s d a y, J u l y 2 , 2 0 1 3 | Ta h l e q u a h , O k l a . 7 4 4 6 4

Former Miss NSU places in Miss Oklahoma pageant

ANGELA WALKER
TNE WRITER NSUs motto Gather Here. Go Far. seems true especially for two local students who have won the title of Miss NSU. Starting in 1960 with a studentbody vote, the Miss NSU competition became a tradition the following year. The ladies crowned Miss NSU go on to compete for the Miss Oklahoma title during their yearlong reign, while using the time to promote their platform. There are those familiar with pageantry as well as those with no experience at all who enter to win a title. I consider myself to have only a small amount of experience, said Tawnie Goodwin, 2011 Miss NSU and Stilwell senior. Although I have been competing for three years, some of the girls have been competing since age 13 or even younger. As varied as the pageant skill levels are the talents of each contestant. Some begin their talents at an early age. Thankfully, my parents started me in dance at a local studio when I was continued on page 2

Courtesy Photo Kristopher Copeland, co-chair of Miss NSU, with Tawnie Goodwin, 2011 Miss NSU. Goodwin recently placed fourth runner up in the Miss Oklahoma pageant.

NAB returns from European study abroad trip

TRICIA PRICE TNE WRITER The Northeastern Activities Board recently planned and returned from a trip to Europe where they visited Amsterdam, Paris and London. Classes were offered by Kin Thompson and Kristopher Copeland for communication and hospitality and tourism management. Students had the opportunity to see part of the world and receive college credit for it. NAB is planning another trip this coming academic year. They are currently planning a trip to Italy and Greece and are offering many of the same opportunities for students. The class I am offering is for students interested in or studying media studies, advertising or marketing, said Dana BorenBoer, instructor of media studies. They would benefit by seeing how other countries ad agencies work, how do advertising practices differ from those in the United States and are the laws similar or different. The number of classes that are going to be offered during this study abroad continued on page 2

To err is human. To fix it is TNE Policy. Corrections can be found on Page 4. To report a correction call 918.444.2890. TNE Web site: www.nsunews.com

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Miss NSU allows for opportunities

continued from page 1 about 4 years old, said Katie Bowmin, reigning Miss NSU. Bowmin said she has always loved dancing. It comes very easy to me, said Bowmin. I also incorporate a lot of gymnastics into my dances, which not a lot of girls do. Bowmin plans to obtain a doctorate of physical therapy and her platform is Special Olympics. She plans to compete in more pageants and return to compete again in the Miss Oklahoma pageant in the future. Winning a pageant can be a distinctive experience for many. I was proud of myself, said Bowmin. Bowmin said she was one of the few girls who had never competed before. It was an exciting moment, said Bowmin. Bowmin said she had a large support group there to watch her compete. It made it even better, said Bowmin. Every contestant has different reasons for competing. I entered pageantry for the scholarship opportunities, said Goodwin. Goodwin said she did not expect to make it a habit. I enjoyed the system so much that I stayed, said Goodwin. Goodwin said it is a way to better herself while making a lasting impact on the community with her platform. Goodwin has been crowned Miss NSU, Miss Okmulgee County and Miss Collinsville. She recently earned fourth runner up in the 2013 Miss Oklahoma pageant and plans to run again for the title. Winners of the Miss Oklahoma pageant go on to compete in the Miss America pageant. Go Far, indeed. Miss NSU 2014 is at 7 p.m. Nov. 5 at the Center for Performing Arts. For more information call the student activities office: (918) 4442526.

NSU offers opportunity for students to travel

continued from page 1 trip has not been decided at this time. Professors may come forward at any point and express interest in offering college credit for students partaking in the trip. College students are not known for having tons of money laying around. The cost of the trip has been a constant question. Students are very concerned about the cost of this trip, said Keshia Kincaid, road trips chairman. We offer the possibility of a payment plan. Students can figure out the best way for them to pay for the trip and they can start as soon as they want to. NAB just got back from a study abroad trip and many are wondering why they are so anxious to plan another so soon. They have planned the whole trip and they have been offering information in the month that they have been back at NSU. This gives NSU students the opportunity to travel safely as a group sponsored by the university, said Sadie Spurlock, chairman of the board. The first trip was such a great success that we know we can build on it and make this an opportunity for everyone. Information packets are available in the Student Activities office located in the basement of the University Center. For more information, call Student Activities at 918-444-2526.

Tricia Price/TNE Kathy Liles, student activities administrative assistant, puts out information packets about the trip to Italy and Greece. The packets are available for anyone to pick up in the Student Activities office in the basement of the University Center.

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NSU welcomes new Greek Life coordinator

TRICIA PRICE
TNE WRITER The Greek Life coordinator position has been open at NSU for six months. As of May the position has been filled. Helen Lahrman has accepted the position and is now a RiverHawk. I am very excited to welcome Helen to NSU, said Sarah Johnson, coordinator of campus activities. We will be working together every day, and we will be coordinating many activities together. We also have a full staff in student activities, and it has been a while since we have had that. Lahrman is not only the Greek Life Coordinator, but she has also been given the title of Community Engagement Coordinator. The community engagement position is really just giving the students a centralized location to come to when there are questions concerning community involvement, said Lahrman. We will be pushing opportunities in the community for those students who are wishing to be involved in a community aspect. This program is trying to connect the classroom with the community in order to help and give back to Tahlequah. A large part of this program will be centered on a food pantry at NSU, which will function throughout the whole year. Lahrman said she is here for the students at NSU. She said she feels she will learn from the students, and she hopes to figure out ways to make things happen on campus that the students want to happen. Many people are excited to have a new member of the RiverHawk family. Greek life is not Lahrmans only concern, but those active within that branch of the student body are glad to have her here at NSU. She has so many new ideas and different outlook on events and functions, said Alyssa Rupe, Skiatook junior. She is going to be a great asset to NSUs Greek life. The Greek Life office is located

Tricia Price/TNE Helen Lahrman, Greek Life coordinator, puts bank statements into the fraternities mail boxes. Keeping track of expenses is just one of her new duties.

in the basement of the University Center and Lahrman will be in the office from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Monday through Friday. For more information, email pricet@nsuok.edu.

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Mental illness and suicide rates peak in college

Mental illness is a difficult subject to talk about. There are a myriad of stigmas associated with having a mental illness and many are based on fear. These fears may include the unknown, that someone is crazy or that a person could hurt you. Removing the stigma can start with students at NSU. According to mayoclinic.com, mental illness can be caused in part by an imbalance of chemicals in the brain. Just as a diabetic produces too much or not enough insulin, the body is not regulating things properly for someone with a mental illness. Mental illnesses such as PTSD, depression, bi-polar disorder or schizophrenia do not just affect the individual but also family and friends. Those suffering a mental illness often deal with shame and guilt, and they fear to tell people due to fear of rejection. Education can prevent many misconceptions. While there are those with mental illness who are violent, many are not. An individual suffering from depression would almost certainly hurt themself rather than someone else. According oudaily.com, Oklahoma ranked 12 in the nation for college-aged suicides. According to okhighered.org, suicide is the second leading cause of death for college students, and veterans have a six-time higher rate for suicide compared to nonveteran students. A misconception some may have is that mental illness is contagious. Having a friend who has PTSD or bi-polar disorder does not make you susceptible to the illness. Realizing the special needs of each individual can help in coping with a loved one who suffers from a mental illness. According to va.gov, PTSD does not cause someone to be violent. PTSD flashbacks can cause

Angela Walker/TNE Russ Waid , NSU counselor, reviews compliance information at the HawkReach offices. Counseling services are available daily in North Leoser Hall with after-hours calls available.

anxiety and odd behavior to some, but it is just survival mode to others. Hyper-vigilance due Adviser: Cassie Freise ext. 2874 to being assaulted or being in a Editorial Board: Meredith Barker ext. 2890 combat zone means that you are Blake Harris ext. 2890 constantly on alert and watching Ashley Rogers ext. 2890 for the threat of assault. Ad Manager: Kyle Eubanks ext. 2890 Those dealing with a com TNE Staff: Suzi Allen Jessica Brooks pleted suicide often suffer from Jennifer Clark Kathy Drake survivors guilt. Being told it is Tricia Price Angela Walker not your fault does not ease the pain and hidden guilt that often TNE Ad Staff: Darryl Crenshaw James Johnston comes when one feels they failed that person. It is crucial to have guidance at this time, as the risk of another suicide is high at this POSTMASTER: Send PS from 3579 to NSU, Tahlequah, Okla., 74464-2399. The Northeastern (USPS # 395-580) is published time. weekly throughout the year except college holidays by Northeastern State University, Tahlequah, Okla., 74464-2399. Periodicals postage paid at Tahlequah. Postmaster: send address changes to Northeastern State University, Tahlequah, When someone is locked in Okla., 74464-2399. For more information about advertising, classified or display, call 444-2890, seven days in advance of the downward spiral of depresdesired publication date. Editorial statements in The Northeastern and readers letters reflect those of the individual writers sion and suicidal thoughts, feeling and not necessarily those of The Northeastern, its editors, staff, adviser or the administration of NSU. The opinions and comments therein do not necessarily reflect the policies or beliefs of the Board of Regents of Oklahoma Colleges or the life is meaningless and the world regional universities and that the student newspaper is not an official medium or expression of the Board or the regional would be a better place without universities. The Northeastern is a public forum. All submissions become property of The Northeastern. This publication was them, you can never tell how one printed by The Muskogee Phoenix and issued by NSU as authorized by House Bill 1714. Four thousand copies were printed at a total cost of $695 for 32 pages. The Northeastern is a member of the Associated College Press Association, Oklahoma act of kindness could affect someInterscholastic Press Association, Society of Collegiate Journalists and College Media Advisers. e-mail address: tne@nsuok. one. edu. If you see someone who exhib-

its some of the warning signs of suicide such as behavior changes, showing increased substance abuse, withdrawing, showing anger or rage, talk to them or refer them to talk to one of the counselors at HawkReach counseling services or counselors elsewhere at Hastings Hospital, Tahlequah City Hospital or even the VAMC. We are open Monday through Friday eight to five but we also are on call 24 hours a day, said DeJon Jordan, HawkReach outreach and prevention coordinator. If you need help after hours call 2468, Campus Police and they will contact our director. If you or someone you know is dealing with these issues, call NSU HawkReach at (918) 4442402, the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1(800) 273TALK or if you are a Veteran, the Veteran Crisis Line at 1(800) 2738255.

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Career Services available for students year round

JENNIFER CLARK
TNE WRITER NSU Career Services offers a variety of opportunities to help students get on the path to success, including mock interviews. Career Services finds student values, skills and interests to complete a career development plan For a student, starting a career after college can be stressful and overwhelming. Students may have questions about the career world that are often not answered. Students and Alumni are encouraged to utilize the resources Career Services has to offer. This summer I signed up on the Career Services RiverHawk Account, and I am excited about all of the job opportunities already, Brittany Pearsall, Pryor senior. Career Services presents many events throughout the year on campus. Career fairs, on-campus recruiting events, information sessions and career development workshops will be presented through Career Services. The Career and Graduate School Fair and the Teacher Fair are two of the main events hosted, said Kelsey Parcell, career services intern. I liked helping with the fairs. It gave me a chance to build relationships for my career goals. Throughout the summer, the Career Service office is open to students and alumni needing assistance. Mock Interviews can be a helpful resource and are offered by scheduled appointment. They provide examples of appropriate interview attire and helpful tips for answering interview questions and can also help with creating a personal resume. An easy way to stay active throughout the summer is to follow Career Services on Twitter, Facebook, Pinterest and LinkedIn. Facebook users can find job announcements and articles on the NSU Career Services page. We are the only ones on campus to have a Pinterest, said Kandra Medlin, administrative assistant. We have professional, development, interviewing and internship boards, Along with social media, during the school year Career Services advertises through different events. Welcome Week and popcorn days are two events students can learn about the possibilities

Jennifer Clark/TNE Brittany Pearsall, Pryor senior, sets up her Career Services RiverHawk account with assistance from Jodi Jones, career counselor and internship specialist. This account allows employers to search and connect with students for job opportunities to develop their career paths.

of Career Services. Career Services reaches the incoming freshman on campus by handing out

Career Services water bottles during Rookie Bridge Camp. For more information, visit

http://offices.nsuok.edu/ca reerservices/CareerService sHome.aspx.

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Social media unites campus organizations and students

SUZI ALLEN
TNE WRITER NSU updates on Facebook and Twitter pages for the different departments and clubs on campus. They promote campus events as well as activities in the area. I actually created the page for the University Center, said Deanie Hensley, assistant director of auxiliary services. Hensley said she has two other people who help her manage the page, but she is in charge of most of the Facebook posts. We use social media as another way to connect with our fans, said Cedrique Flemming, assistant athletic director, head media relations director. We want to use as much media as possible to get the message of NSU athletics to our fan base, so it makes it easier for them follow along with the successes of our athletic program. Flemming said the athletics department will always try to help the other clubs or departments on campus get more followers. They like to see the other pages get as much help and knowledge out about what is going on at NSU. We post anything that will make our students, faculty and staff feel safe, said Sgt. Jim Flores, NSU police department. Nothing is more important than sharing vital information that gives our stakeholders peace of mind. Also, we care about what our stakeholders think, so having Facebook allows us to interact with these individuals and establish a clear and real-time dialog. Flores said they have become a lot closer to the campus and town. People will be able to see the problems and issues for which they find answers. My goals has always been to produce content that rivals that of our conference, and I want our

Ashley Rogers/TNE Whitney Reece, VP of recruitment for Panhellenic, updates the Greek Life Facebook page. Social networking plays an active role in keeping students connected.

Twitter page to reflect that, said Flemming. Flemming said he would like to see their number of followers be as high as the fans in other schools in the conference. There are many reasons for the

updates to inform students, faculty and fans. This allows them to know what is going on in this community and on the campus. For more information, email alennsu@nsuok.edu.

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Camera club offers knowledge and education

ANGELA WALKER
TNE WRITER Tahlequah has many clubs and activities for some enthusiasts. The Tahlequah Camera Club offers a unique opportunity for NSU students and the photography aficionado in the local area. They are also affiliated with the Photographic Society of America. The club began 29 years ago as a forum to show works and to help those wanting to learn to be better photographers. One of our objectives is to improve our photography skills through competitive critique techniques by a judge, said Don Bowman, Tahlequah Camera Club competition co-chair. Members meet for learning and submit pieces to be critiqued. Participants choose one of the three photographic levels to enter their submissions into a myriad of competitions. Beginner, advanced and master level are the three skill levels. Altered reality is another category for submissions that are altered by any type of software. There are awards for first, second and third place, as well as honorable mentions. A photographer in a small community doesnt get a lot of chances to show his or her work and have it critiqued by someone who knows their way around a camera and the technical aspects, said Carrie Moore, Tahlequah senior. So a club that offers those features is appealing. The Altered Reality class is a popular category. The photographers are able to edit their photo with digital softCamera Club offers members the chance to get that acknowledgement that most crave. Each month presents a different opportunity for photographers. On alternate months, programs on a range of photographic topics are presented, said Bowman. On the other months, members submit up to four photos that are then rated and critiqued by an external, qualified judge. Currently, the Tahlequah Camera Club meets on the third Wednesday of the month. Starting in August, the meetings will be 7 to 9 p.m. on the second Tuesday of the month at the Tahlequah Public Library. For more information on the Tahlequah Camera Club, call Jean Bowman at 918-456-8340.

Teresa Dunn-Girdner/Contributing Photographer Steve Tharp, Tahlequah Camera Club president, opens the clubs meeting with news and announcements. Tahlequah Camera Club meets monthly at the Tahlequah Public Library.

ware and submit their piece in the competition. That particular class is our largest one, said Jean Bowman, Tahlequah Camera Club competition co-chair. Anybody can enter and that is the class that they enjoy seeing and hearing the comments about. In addition to competitions, Tahlequah Camera Club offers

field trips, a Christmas party, a summer picnic and an annual awards banquet beyond the monthly meetings. It provides an opportunity for novice photographers to get recognition. Every photographer loves the chance to win awards for their work, said Moore. Moore said the Tahlequah

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NSU professor promoted

JESSICA BROOKS
TNE WRITER Dr. Sophia Sweeney, assistant professor for educational foundation and leadership in the college of education, has been named coordinator of academic services for the center for teaching and learning starting July 1. Sweeney will develop professional development activities related to teaching and learning for NSU instructors. Dr. Sweeney will oversee the Quality Matters training as well as the development of the Level 2 course for the Online Educator Certificate, said Dr. Jennifer Barth, director of the center for teaching and learning. The result of a new policy that requires NSU instructors who teach online or blended courses to become qualified in the use of Blackboard and best pedagogical practices for online learning. Sweeneys knowledge and experience in teaching, learning and assessment, as well as her written pieces and workshops for CTL, have shown the committee of NSU employees that she is the best person for the job. Dr. Sweeney is one of the nicest people I have met, said Merrill Wasson, Midland, Texas junior. I think she will be great in this new position. She will begin immediately by overseeing Quality Matters course reviews and teaching QM applying the Rubric courses for employees at NSU. My goal is to connect faculty with the resources they need, said Sweeney. Barth is confident Sweeney will use her knowledge and experience in teaching, learning and assessment to help CTL to fulfill its mission of fostering excellence. For more information, email brooks12@nsuok.edu.

Performers channel Elvis

Carrie Moore/Contributing Photographer The River City Players perform Jailhouse Rock. The River City Players present shows every Thursday, Friday and Saturday throughout the summer.

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Tahlequah Rock and Mineral club promotes geology

ANGELA WALKER
TNE WRITER Diamonds might be a girls best friend but to the Tahlequah Rock and Mineral Club, they are not the only rocks that are striking. With the information available at the Tahlequah Rock and Mineral Club comes the knowledge to identify such gemstones and other rocks, minerals and fossils. The Tahlequah Rock and Mineral Clubs purpose is to promote education for the study of earth sciences and exchange results of those studies and classifications with comparable associations as well as the public. These studies include rocks, gemstones, fossils and lapidary techniques. This club has been in existence for more than 25 years. We are really interested in getting young people interested in the earth sciences., Maxine Woods, Rock and Mineral Show president. Most kids that we run into love rocks. Woods said the club has prepared kits for local elementary schools to educate children in the earth sciences. The kits include items such as books on rocks, safety equipment, sample of rocks to identify, a rockhardness test and much more. The rock-hardness test is called the Mohs test, named after the man who published the classic scale for hardness. Hardness typically means resistance to abrasion. There are many other tests used to identify rocks and minerals. You scratch a rock against a white tile, it lays off a streak and the color tells you something about what the mineral is, said we havent got that set up yet. The Tahlequah Rock and Mineral Club is having a show in mid-August with attractions such as fossils, jewelry, rocks, minerals and auctions. Educational displays will also be available to view. A snack bar will be available for participants. We have the show, said Sara Brasel, Rock and Mineral Club board member. We are in the final stages of planning. Were going to have 25-plus vendors, and they come from all five surrounding states. They sell all kinds of things. Woods said Roger West, a recent NSU retiree, has a fluorescent exhibit. It is a popular exhibit, as most people do not know that rocks glow. The Tahlequah Rock and Mineral Club is associated with local, state, regional and national organizations. The Oklahoma Rock and Mineral Society is on the state level and the Rocky Mountain Federation of Mineralogical Societies is the regional organization. The Tahlequah Rock and Mineral Club meets at 7 p.m. every third Tuesday at the Tahlequah Public Library. The Tahlequah Rock and Mineral Show is 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Aug. 16 and 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Aug. 17 at the Tahlequah Community Building. Admission is $3 for adults. For more information about the Tahlequah Rock and Mineral Club or the Rock and Mineral Show, call Sara at 918-284-5770 or Maxine at 918-456-8198.

Angela Walker/TNE The Tahlequah Rock and Mineral Club gathers for their monthly meeting. The club meets at 7 p.m., every third Tuesday at the Tahlequah Public Library.

Roger West, Tahlequah Rock and Mineral Club board member. The Tahlequah Rock and Mineral Club does more than just have shows or monthly meetings.

We do field trips and we do fundraising, said Woods. Our money goes to scholarships. Weve talked to people at NSU about setting up a scholarship but

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Flamenco guitarist visits Muskogees Roxy Theater

JESSICA BROOKS TNE WRITER Viva Flamenco, a musical concoction of the gypsy music of Spain, comes to The Roxy Theater. The show will give Muskogee a touch of Spanish flavor. I am such a big fan of this type of music, said Doug Wolf, Fayetteville senior. I am excited to go see the show. Ronald Radford, master of the Flamenco Guitar, will perform live. Radford is no stranger to Oklahoma soil. A protg of Carlos Montoya, he was born in California, but grew up in Oklahoma. He is the only person to be awarded a Fulbright Scholarship to Spain in Flamenco guitar. He has toured internationally, visiting 15 countries worldwide, performing for crowds of all types. The Roxy Theater is in the middle of downtown Muskogees night life. It was opened in 1948, originally as a movie theater. The atmosphere contains aspects from after the WWII time period. Not only do the shows bring people in but the art deco glass, tile, fully restored original seating and architecture also play a part in bringing in patrons. The theater is not just a place to go see a musical but also theater style live productions and family movies. Melissa Oliver, Broken Arrow junior, said she looks forward to going. Her boyfriend is making it a date night. Im excited to take my girlfriend, said Luther Langston II, Tulsa junior. He said it is an inexpensive way to have a great time and spoil my girl. The Oklahoma Arts Council and Muskogee Area Arts Council sponsor this event. Viva Flamenco is June 28-July 2. The shows begin at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $10 for adults and $5 for students at the door. The Roxy Theater is located in downtown Muskogee at 220 W. Okmulgee. For more information about Viva Flamenco, call 918-6846362.

Camps provide education

Angela Walker/TNE Cassie Freise, NSU instructor and summer camp director, directs children in the Impulse Images summer camp. The camp allows children to learn about different aspects of digital photography.

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Courtesy of Weather.com

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Green Country celebrates July Fourth

KATHY DRAKE
TNE WRITER The Fourth of July is a favorite holiday for many Americans, both young and old. The holiday is often spent at the lake or stopping by the fireworks stand to buy the loudest or most colorful pyrotechnic money can buy. It is one of the few American holidays whose true meaning has not been lost and is meant to be a day of celebration. Numerous towns and organizations will sponsor free Independence Day celebrations, so it is not hard to find one nearby the whole family can enjoy. At dusk on July 4, Lake Tenkillers traditional fireworks display will continue at the south end of the lake, with the celebration lasting over half an hour. The Greater Tenkiller Area Association and local businesses work together to finance the show for the community and visitors to enjoy free of charge. The fireworks show is shot from a lagoon setting in Lake Tenkiller State Park, which gives it a high elevation for viewing, said Diane Rutland, sales and marketing at Greenleaf State Park. Viewing can be from the lake, Tenkiller State Park or from areas like Fin and Feather Resort. The fireworks can also be viewed at Grand Lake near Disney, Okla. Grand Lake Fireworks Inc. presents the Cliff Elliott Memorial Fireworks Show on Disney Island. Before she became mayor, Judy Barger decided the Disney area needed its own fireworks show

Kathy Drake/TNE Jake Smith, percussionist, and Aaron Wright, head drum major, of Tahlequah High Schools Orange Express marching band discuss the fireworks available for sale. The annual fundraiser brings in money to purchase new instruments and other necessities for the band.

and started collecting donations in 2009. She single-handedly collected $10,000 the first year and formed Grand Lake Fireworks Inc. Her mission grew and so did the fireworks show. This year were going for $30,000, said Mayor Barger. We spend practically all of it and we spend it on fireworks and then the other goes on advertising. We want people to come. I want to have it for the childrens memories. Every child should have a good memory of their Fourth of July in the summertime. The Grand Lake Fireworks show begins after sunset on Friday, July 5, on Disney Island. The show can be seen on the water and from many of the parks around Grand Lake. Those within a five-mile radius can tune in to 100.5 FM on the radio to watch the fireworks set to

music. A bit farther away is the ONEOK FreedomFest in Tulsa. The banks of the Arkansas River along 23rd Street bridge will provide a viewing area for over 80,000 people on July Fourth. Starting at noon on the east side of the river at Veterans Park is the annual American Salute, an old-fashioned style family picnic with music and free inflatables for children. Musician Dan Crossland takes the stage at 6:30 p.m. At 6 p.m., the west bank at River West Festival Park becomes the setting of many food vendors, face painters, free inflatables and other activities for the whole family. The west bank is also the site for the Stars and Stripes Pavilion. It is a reserved area for watching the fireworks display with an unlimited access to the compli-

mentary gourmet picnic buffet, free beverages, including alcohol, and free access to the Pavilion Kids Zone for ages 9 and under. Weve always had a VIP tent, but this year were changing it, said Matt Carter, creative director at River Parks. Weve lowered the price by over half because we really want to see families and people that are always out at River Parks to have an opportunity to

be a part of this reserved area. Reserved tickets for the Stars and Stripes Pavilion are $30 for ages 17 and up, $15 for ages 1016 and ages 9 and under are free. VIP parking passes are also available for $20. For more information about the shows above and others in the area, visit www.bigblastonline.com/publicfireworksdisplays. html.

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