cbc forum january/february 2009

January/February 2009 Coastal Bend College Volume 3, Number 3

ForumCBCJanuary/February 2009 Coastal Bend College Volume 3, Number 3

Mark Valdez’s Great Egret graces cover of 2009 calendarMore calendar photos inside...

CBC programs in line with future job trends

Page 4

Nursing graduates listed

Page 6

Dental hygiene grad invents Platypus fl osser

0

CBC Forum 3800 Charco Road, Beeville, TX 78102 361.354.2399

CBC Forum is a publication of Coastal Bend College, Office of Institutional Advancement, 3800 Charco Road, Beeville,

Texas. To receive a digital copy, send an email to Adrian Jackson at [email protected]. Coastal Bend College does not

discriminate on the basis of race, creed, color, national origin, gender, age or disability. For more information about Coastal Bend

College, visit the website at www.coastalbend.edu or call toll free (866) 722-2838.Coastal Bend College

Can you give me information about CBC’s mult-entry nursing program? Incoming students with no experience enter at the fi rst stage and work to become certifi ed nurses’ assistants. Upon completion, they can exit and go to work as a CNA or continue to study vocational nursing. CNAs and students who have completed the equivalent coursework enter the vocational

nursing portion of the program. Upon completion and passing the state licensing examination, student can either enter the workforce or continue at CBC for an associate’s degree without having to repeat courses. Students who complete the next level of coursework will graduate with a Associate’s Degree in Nursing and can go to work or transfer to a four-year institution to earn a bachelor’s degree. Another option is for students to enter the program as new freshmen and work continuously to complete an associate’s degree.

The school district used to offer GED prep classes, but they don’t anymore. Is this something I can do at the college? Yes. Adult Basic Education-Cooperative Program serves the school districts of Mathis, Ingleside, Taft, Sinton, George West and Beeville. It is housed at the Lott Canada Facility at 900 W. Corpus Christi St. in Beeville.

Why should I join a club? Coastal Bend College clubs are a great way to make friends and do good in the community. Clubs center on academic interests, hobbies and civic interests. Some clubs are chapter associations; others have

religious affi liations. Campus clubs give students opportunities to connect with others that share similar interests and help students begin to build professional networks that they can use throughout their lives.

Can I call my daughter’s professor when she has academic problems? No. A student’s academic progress is confi dential by federal law. The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act protects the privacy of student education records, according to the U.S. Department of Education.

I want to transfer to a university after I earn my associate’s degree. What do I do? All academic courses at Coastal Bend College, and any public community or junior college, are fully transferable to any public institution in the country. Most colleges have articulation agreements with area universities that allow students to work on their bachelors degree plans while earning associates degrees. Students can arrange individual agreements with CBC counselors.

I am facing a fi nancial crisis. If I don’t get help, I’ll have to drop out of school. Can you help me? Yes. Coastal Bend College has emergency funds that are available to students in unexpected circumstance. Nora Morales, Director of Financial Aid, said that students faced with insurmountable expenses qualify for aid if they have a current Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) on fi le; meet eligibility criteria; are in good academic standing and have a demonstrated, emergency need. Applications are approved on a case-by-case basis and approval is contingent on the availability of funds. Information about Dreamkeepers Emergency Financial Aid Program is available at www.coastalbend.edu or through a CBC faculty member or counselor.

Got a question? Send it to [email protected].

&QuestionsAnswers

www.coastalbend.edu CBC ForumPhotos from 2009 Coastal Bend College Wildlife Calendar

Male Northern Bobwhite by Dr. Grady Hogue, Jr. Roseate Spoonbill by Jimmy Jackson

Common Gray Fox by Jake Latcham

Painted Bunting by Alex Kibler

Green Kingfi sher by Sylvia Garcia-Smith

Contributing photographers:John Breidenbach

Sylvia Garcia-Smith

William Harrell

Dr. Grady Hogue, Jr.

James Hunt

Sheryl Hunt

Jimmy Jackson

Alex Kibler

Jake Latcham

Albert Reynolds

Karen Savage

Ken Turner

Mark Valdez

Jackie Waters


Coastal Bend College programs in line with future trends

For most people, when deciding upon a career, it’s important to choose something they like, something they’re good at, some-thing they are interested in and are excited about. But there are three little words that you might want to consider before jumping into any old career – Future Job Market. The job market is kind of like the stock market in that, just like the stock market tells you which companies are in high de-mand, the job market is all about what jobs are in high demand. Let’s face it – there aren’t too many ca-reer opportunities in the job market for un-derwater basket weaving (or things equally as unique). It’s probably not likely that you will land that “perfect job” in a fi eld as rare as that. So it’s important to take into consideration what kind of jobs are boom-

ing, which ones are growing fast and need people more and more every day to join the fi eld. So, to give you an idea of what kinds of fi elds are in high demand TODAY, here is a list from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statics: 1. Network systems and data

communications analysts Coastal Bend College offers an

Associate of Applied Science Degree in Computer Information Technology and a certifi cate in Networking Specialization.

2. Personal and home care aides CBC offers courses for those who

plan to take the Certifi ed Nurse Aide Examination.

3. Home health aides CBC offers courses for those who

plan to take the Certifi ed Nurse Aide Examination.

4. Computer software engineers, applications

Coastal Bend College offers an Associate of Applied Science Degrees and certifi cates in Computer Information Technology.

Check out the fastest growing occupations in the United States

www.coastalbend.edu CBC Forum

Let’s face it -- there aren’t too many career opportunities in the job market for underwater basket weaving.

5. Veterinary technologists and technicians

6. Personal fi nancial advisers Coastal Bend College offers an

Associate of Applied Science Degree and two certifi cates in Accounting.

7. Makeup artists, theatrical and performance

Coastal Bend College offers a certifi cate in cosmetology. Courses prepare students to take the state examination for licensing.

8. Medical assistants Coastal Bend College offers Associate

of Applied Science Degrees and certifi cates in nursing, medical coding, radiologic technology and dental hygiene. CBC Continuing Education offers classes for phlebotomists, CNAs, home health care assistants, long term care activity directors and professional development.

9. Veterinarians

10. Substance abuse and behavioral disorder counselors

11. Skin care specialists Coastal Bend College offers a

certifi cate in cosmetology. Courses prepare students to take the state examination for licensing.

12. Financial analysts

13. Social and human service assistants CBC offers courses in education and

criminal justice as part of a university-transfer, two-year Associate in Arts or Science Degree. Coastal Bend College offers Associate in Applied Sciences in Early Development and Education and Law Enforcement.

14. Gaming surveillance offi cers and gaming investigators

Coastal Bend College offers an Associate of Applied Science Degree in Computer Information Technology and a certifi cate in Web/ Game Design.

15. Physical therapist assistants16. Pharmacy technicians

17. Forensic science technicians CBC offers courses in criminal justice

as part of a university-transfer, two-year degree. Coastal Bend College offers an Associate in Applied Sciences in Law

Enforcement and a certifi cate in Crime Scene Investigation.

18. Dental hygienists Coastal Bend College offers an

Associate in Applied Science in Dental Hygiene that prepares students for state licensing.

19. Mental health counselors

20. Mental health and substance abuse social workers

(Source: MakingItCount.com)


The following students earned Level I Certifi cates in Vocational Nursing. A pinning ceremony was held last month.

Brenda Alaniz, Alice Elizabeth A. Benavides, Alice Esmeralda Benavidez, KingsvilleEsmeralda Barrera, Alice Brittney Caillier, Alice Leanna Cantu, Alice

Vanessa R. Carrales, KingsvilleKelly Dagley, KingsvilleKayla Lynn Epperson, BeevilleKrystal D. Garcia, Alice Nicole Garcia, KingsvilleRaelynn Garza, BeevilleAdrienne M. Givens, KingsvilleFelicia-Ana V. Gonzalez, BeevilleHeather Ferrer, BeevilleLeila Gonzalez, Alice Leidy Longoria, KingsvilleDee Ann Martinez, KingsvilleJoan P. Martinez, Beeville Irma G. Pena, Alice Gabriela Prall, KingsvilleBarbara A. Quintana, Alice Inez Ramirez, Alice Peggy Rivers, BeevilleSamantha Saenz, KingsvilleMoses Salomon, KingsvilleDiane M. Sanchez, KingsvilleRosa I. Sanchez, BeevilleVeronica Irene Solano, AliceCassandra Tijerina, AliceJonathan J. Velasquez, KingsvilleRoxanne C. Villalon, KingsvilleEmily Kae Wolf, Beeville

Congratulations, nursing grads

Celebrate Inauguration Day

On January 20, watch the historic swearing-in of Barack Obama,

the 44th President of the United States of America in the SUB.

Viewing of live coverage begins at 8:30 a.m.

Cake and punch served in the SUB at 11 a.m.

Event sponsored by Student Government Assn.

www.coastalbend.edu CBC ForumCOASTAL BEND PHOTOGRAPHY

Regional wildlife photo exhibit travels to Bee CountyThere’s a story behind every photograph, so imagine the lessons learned from the traveling Coastal Bend Wildlife Photo Exhibit which features 159 award-winning museum quality photos. The exhibit showcases 22 different classifi cations of birds, and numerous classes of native mammals, insects, arachnids, reptiles, amphibians and landscapes of the Coastal Bend.

The Wildlife Photo Exhibit is on display at Coastal Bend College – Beeville Campus in the Grady C. Hogue Learning Resource Center (Library). It is open to the public during regular operating hours: 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Mondays, Tuesdays and Wednesdays; 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Thursdays; and 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Fridays. The show will run until Jan. 30.

The traveling exhibit is funded in part by the City of Corpus Christi Arts and Cultural Commission and credits our proud sponsors from the 2007 Photo Contest. The exhibit travels throughout 14 counties of the Coastal Bend. To date, it has visited more than 100 venues including libraries, museums, banks, schools, art centers and the airport. By the end of its two year tour, the photos will be seen and appreciated by over 100,000 people spreading public awareness about wildlife conservation. In addition to photo contests and exhibits, the collection educates the community through wildlife photo books --Wildlife in Focus, and an school environmental education program,

Kritters 4 Kids.

Known as one of the Richest Wildlife Photo Contest in the world, the Coastal Bend Wildlife Photo Contest is one of the most unique and innovative programs in the state. Prize money, $90,000 dollars, is raised to recruit top nature photographers from around the world as well as provide an economic incentive to landowners. Contest administrators team photographers with Texas Coastal Bend Ranchers. Teams are given fi ve months to photograph. Three world-renowned judges select 159 winning photos out of more than 4,300 digital images submitted. Winning photographers and landowners share the prize money equally. In Texas, 94 percent of land is

privately owned, therefore it is that partnership that makes the photographs possible. Many times

it isn’t until the landowner sees his or her land through the lens of a photographer that they truly understand and appreciate their land and role they play in protecting it.

For more information about the exhibit or the next contest, contact Rhonda Camp at (361) 881-9316.

Artists: Carole Greer and Jean LamanGallery Exhibit: Jan. 22 - Feb. 19, 2009Opening Reception: Jan. 22 , 11 a.m. - 2 p.m.

Frank Jostes Visual Arts BuildingSimon Michael Gallery

Coastal Bend College -- Beeville Campus

“Mixed Metaphors”


Students can apply to CBC at ApplyTexas.orgFuture CBC students can now apply online at www.

Applytexas.org. For more information contact Kelly

Rea at (361) 354-2529 or [email protected].

Guest artists open mixed media show in BeevilleSimon Michael Gallery will open the spring semester

with “Mixed Metaphors,” a collection from Carole

Greer and Jean Laman. The show will run Jan. 22-

Feb. 19. The opening reception is set for Jan. 22 at 11

a.m. to 2 p.m. in Frank Jostes Visual Arts Building.

For additional information, contact Jayne Duryea at

(361) 354-2322 or [email protected].

Motorcycle safety course offeredThe Department of Public Safety Motorcycle Safety

Unit will hold a basis motorcycle safety course on

Jan. 23-25 at Coastal Bend College. Class hours are

4-8 p.m. on Friday, and 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday

and Sunday. Participants will learn basic operation

of equipment, bike safety, and learn how to dress for

the road. After completing this course, students will

be able to take their written test and eye exam at DPS.

Dave Metcalf is the instructor. To sign up, contact

CBC Continuing Ed at (361) 362-2633.

Two weeks in CuernavacaPlan now for the annual cultural studies trip to Mexico.

The two week trip requires a passport. Students can

earn dual-credit or college credit equivalent to a full

semester of Spanish. Teachers can earn professional

development credit or continuing education credit. The

trip is July 10-26. Flight arrangements and reservations

must be made now, so a $500 deposit is mandatory by

April 1, 2009 to secure a slot. The trip is $1,600 per

person with slight variances for tuition and fees. For

more information or to make a reservation, contact

Kay Past at (361) 354-2401 or kaypast@coastalbend.

edu.

Beeville Campus going greenPhi Theta Kappa, Rho Lambda Chapter has green

collection boxes in each computer lab and around

campus. Please place scrap paper in the boxes to be

picked up. A separate container for ink cartridges

will be available shortly. If you have questions please

address them to Janell Swango at (361) 354-2514 or

[email protected].

Dental care available in BeevilleDental clinic services available at Coastal Bend

College include teeth cleaning, fl uoride treatments,

dental x-rays, site - specifi c antimicrobial placement

and pit/fi ssure sealants placement. Appointments can

be made for Mondays at 8:30 a.m., 10:30 a.m., 1 p.m.,

3 p.m. and 5 p.m.; or Wednesdays at 8:30 a.m. and

10:30 a.m. Fees are $10 for general public; $5 for CBC

student; and no charge for military (active or retired),

CBC faculty, senior citizens 65 and older. To make

an appointment, call the dental clinic at (361) 354-

2555. To make an appointment online, go to www.

coastalbend.edu/Occu/dental/appointment.htm.

New CBC Testing Information websiteStudents in the LAC will have quick access to testing

information by clicking on the desktop icon which is

on all computers in the Learning Assistance Center.

Students not using the computers in the LAC can

reach the testing site by going to the following URL

address: http://www.coastalbend.edu/testing/. The

website contains information about each exam offered

in the testing department and practice exams. For

additional information, contact Roberta Kreis at (361)

354-2244 or [email protected].

Coastal Bend College Performing Arts ScheduleAll events will be held in the Gertrude R. Jones Fine

Arts Auditorium unless otherwise stated. Please note

admission fees applicable to some events.

Tuesday, Feb. 3, 7:30 p.m. San Antonio Symphony A.

C. Jones High School Gymnasium BCA

Sunday, Feb. 8, 3 p.m. St. John’s Baptist Church Choir

BCA

Sunday, Feb.15, 3 p.m. Rebecca Pechefsky Harpsichord

&CBC NewsEvents

www.coastalbend.edu CBC ForumBCA

Sunday, March 1, 3 p.m. Roland

Salazar Vocal Concert CEC

Saturday, March 28 Beeville

Community Chorus Talent Show &

Dinner Dinner at 6 p.m. James R.

Dougherty Student Union Building

Performance at 7:30 p.m. Gertrude R.

Jones Fine Arts Auditorium PAA

Sunday, March 29, 3 p.m. Grupo

Folklórico Tabasco (de La Joya HS)

BCA

BCA -- Beeville Concert

Association;$7 for adults; season

ticket holders free. Children and

students through high school age and

CBC students with photo ID are free.

CEC -- no charge for CBC Cultural

and Education Committee events.

PAA -- Performing Arts Academy.

Prices vary.

Simon Michael Art Gallery Exhibit ScheduleJanuary 22 -- Gallery Opening:

“Carole Greer & Jean Laman,

Professors of Art @ Texas State

University,” Closes February 19.

February 26 -- “CBC Visual

Arts Division High School Art

Competition,” Closes March 13.

Barnhart Workshop SeriesTo unite in the study of art in the

promotion of art activities of cultural

value. Open to all individuals

regardless of experience and/ or

education. Most workshops are free

of charge.

March 2-5 -- “China Painting” 9 a.m.-

4 p.m./Subject to be announced Artist-

in-Residence: Alzora Zaremba

March 12 -- “Glass Blowing”/Artist-

in-Residence: Jayne Duryea, CBC

Art Students & Guest Artists

Men’s Basketball Schedule

January 3 Lee College at CBC Beeville 6 p.m. 5 Weatherford College at CBC Beeville 2 p.m. 8 Cedar Valley College at Lancaster 7 p.m. 9 Brookhaven College at Farmers Branch 7 p.m. 10 North Lake College at Irving 2 p.m.College at Irake College at Irving 2lleg g 13 Schreiner University JV at CBC Beeville 7 p.m.ner University JV at CBeiner University JV at CBC Bniviner University JV at C 17 Southwest Texas Jr. College at CBC Beeville 2 p.m.uthwest Texas Jr. College at CButhwest Texas Jr. College at CBCThwest Texas Jr. Coll 24 Kingwood College at CBC Beeville 2 p.m.ingwood College at CBC BeevillKingwood College at CBC Beeville d wood College a 27 Victoria College at Victoria 7 p.m.Victoria College at Victoria Victoria College at Victoria CVictoria College at Victoria a Colleg 31 Our Lady of The Lake Univ. at San Antonio 1 p.m.Our Lady of The Lake Univ. at SanOur Lady of The Lake Univ. at San Ay Lady of The Lake Univ. a

Februaryryry 5 Southwest Texas Junior College at Uvalde 7 p.m.hwest Texas Junior College west Texas Junior College exawest Texas Junio 10 Victoria College at CBC Beeville 7 p.m.College at CBC BeeCollege at CBC Bee at 13 Our Lady of the Lake Univ. at CBC Beeville 6 p.m. 17 Schreiner University JV at Kerrville 7 p.m.

Coastal Bend College recognizes years of dedication by employees who will mark milestones between September 2008 and August 2009. The following employees are recognized for fi ve years of service to the college: Erica Castillo, Beeville; Christine Moreno, Beeville; Christi Morgan, Alice; Raul Rodriguez, Beeville; Valerie Rosas, Beeville; Eloise Ruiz, Alice; Melissa Soto, Beeville; and Yvonne Tamez, Kingsville. Coastal Bend College employees to be awarded for 10 years of service are Kevin Behr, Beeville; Kelly Craft, Beeville; Ernesto Lopez, Beeville; Margaret Rojas, Beeville; and Diego Sanchez, Kingsville. Employees with 15 years of service to the college are Noemi Aguilar, Beeville; Guadalupe

Ganceres, Beeville; Roberta Kreis, Beeville; Randy Lindeman, Beeville; and Rito Silva, Jr., Alice. Curt Villarreal, Beeville, will be recognized for his 16 years with the college. Those to be recognized for 20 years of service are Erlinda Alvarado, Beeville; Rudy Bentancud, Beeville; William Knighton, III, Beeville; and Kathlyn Patton, Beeville. Michael Kane, Beeville; and Ann Richmond, Beeville will be awarded for his 25 years of service. CBC employees with 30 years of service are Glenda Garza, Beeville; Rafaela Moreno, Beeville; Mary Alice Rivera, Beeville; Glynis Strause, Beeville; and Bobby Uzzell, Beeville.

Awards given to Coastal Bend College faculty, staff for longtime service


The future of the dental hygiene profession is in the hands of our young professionals who use their creativity to eliminate the barriers to achieving optimal oral health. Laura is an example of a clinician whose passion has driven her to solve the fl ossing problem for kids and adults with orthodontic appliances. I had the opportunity to talk with Laura recently to discover what being a dental hygienist means to her and how she has contributed to improving the oral health of many people.

Laura, what inspired you to become a dental hygienist?

Morgan: I’ve always known that I would choose a career helping others and was inspired by my own childhood dental hygienist. I remember her being so caring and genuinely concerned for my well-being. She had me chew disclosing tablets to show me areas of plaque and spent time showing me the proper brushing technique.

We’ve both lived and worked in Switzerland. Of course, I was there before you were born. To me the experience really shaped my life and my career. How did your Swiss experience affect you?

Morgan: There were both personal and professional infl uences. I was shy and reserved and the move to Switzerland proved to be a great way for me to learn how to be independent and gain confi dence in myself. Living on my own in another country was

a great learning experience and a wonderful opportunity to travel and learn about other cultures. I had 17 weeks of vacation, which I treasured and used to see not only Switzerland, but other nearby countries. Professionally, I worked in two dental practices that were quite different. One was progressive with the same preventive philosophy I have, but the other was more concerned with making patients happy at the expense of removing subgingival calculus. Seeing these differences confi rmed my commitment to prevention and oral health.

What prompted you to design a new fl ossing device?

Morgan: One of my goals as a pediatric dental hygienist is to use my knowledge and integrity with each and every patient. We see several orthodontic patients in our practice and I was noticing the prevalence of gingivitis and decalcifi cation amongst these individuals. Good oral hygiene is vital to successful orthodontic treatment, so when I asked patients if they were fl ossing on a regular basis, most said, “No, not at all.”

Most patients said they just couldn’t fi gure out how to fl oss with the threader. Others stated that fl ossing required too much time out of their busy schedules. Adapting dental fl oss through brackets and arch wires can be very diffi cult and time consuming, especially for the younger population. For this reason many adolescents

Invention Borne of Passion

Laura Morgan, RDH graduated from

Coastal Bend College in Beeville, Texas, in

2001. She loves her job in a pediatric practice

in Austin, Texas, and is excited and proud to

help her patients achieve better oral health. In a

career spanning only seven years, she has worked in a general practice, a pediatric

practice, two offi ces in Switzerland and has

invented and patented the Platypus fl ossing

device for use around orthodontic appliances. In a timed comparison, Laura showed that full

mouth fl ossing with the Platypus could be done in just one

minute compared to four minutes with a

traditional fl oss threader on a patient with full

orthodontic bands.

by Trisha E. O’Hehir, RDH, BS, Editorial Director, Hygienetown Magazine

Article originally appeared in Hygienetown, October 2008 [Volume 4, Issue 8] Copyright 2008, Hygienetown.com Inc. Used with permission of the publisher.


resist thorough cleaning around braces because of the lack of ease and time necessary to do so. Because of the lack of fl ossing, the gums were becoming more and more infl amed and moving closer to the brackets.

Their clinical conditions were only getting worse as the months went by. I also dealt with parents’ frustrations seeing the white spots and cavities after the braces were

removed. Puffy and infl amed tissue around the brackets during the whole orthodontic experience can only lead to demineralization and eventually caries lesions.

Why did you focus on a fl ossing device?

Morgan: Flossing is the best way to remove the bacterial plaque that accumulates between the tooth and gum. If plaque remains

in between teeth it eventually hardens and turns into calculus, which can only be removed by dental professionals. The longer this calculus remains on the teeth, the more the bacteria accumulate and build destructive colonies that eventually destroy the supporting structures.

What did you think would work to solve this problem?

Morgan: It seemed to me that a fl oss holder would work if it easily slipped under the arch wire to reach the interproximal, subgingival surfaces. I wanted something that made fl ossing easier for patients so they could do it every day and prevent the serious problems I was seeing. How long did you work on your idea?

Morgan: I worked on it about a year, before submitting the patent. To make the fi rst prototype, I used what we had in the offi ce, starting with a toothbrush and some orthodontic wire. First, I cut the bristles cut off the toothbrush. Then I used a burr to drill a very small hole on the very end of the handle. I heated orthodontic wire and put it into the hole and used pliers to bend the wire into a shape that would slide underneath the orthodontic arch wire.

My employer was very supportive

Continued on page 10


and encouraged me along the way. I tested the prototypes with our patients, to get clinical feedback and refi ne the design.

Did you know any inventors before you became an inventor?

Morgan : Yes I do know another inventor who also lives in Austin, Dr. John Updyke, who invented

the White Oral Wonder (WOW) crown for anterior deciduous teeth. I asked for his advice about the patent process and getting my fl osser made. With his advice, I spoke with a patent attorney and submitted the necessary paperwork to apply for a patent. I had to do a patent search to be sure my idea wasn’t already patented and then I had to describe it in detail, including diagrams. Patents also require information about who will use the product, how they will use it and what the benefi ts are. The patent application I submitted was 25 pages long.

Did you consider manufacturing your fl osser in Texas?

Morgan: I did look into manufacturing after I received notifi cation and a confi rmation number on March 14, 2007, for a provisional patent. I spoke with a plastics manufacturer

in Austin and just to get started the price was $10,000. That was more than I could afford, so I began talking with different companies at the Texas Dental Meeting in May 2007, to see if anyone was interested. I was looking for just the right person who had the same passion for their work that I have for mine. That’s when I met Fred Van de Perre, owner of Paradise Dental Technologies in Missoula, Montana. His enthusiasm and compassion for the dental hygiene instruments he was manufacturing caught my attention right away.

Fred is a Townie who is very supportive of dental hygienists. What caught your eye at that particular meeting?

Morgan: Fred was showing the strength of his instruments by pounding them on the table to show they wouldn’t break and wanted others to give it a try! I immediately thought, “This guy knows what he is talking about and is obviously confi dent in the quality of his product.” His instruments are all made in the United States and 100 percent guaranteed. What other company offers that? So we arranged a meeting the following morning. I showed him my prototype and shared with him my vision for the Platypus.

Once you struck a deal with Fred and PDT, what happened next? Morgan: Between May and February 2008, when we launched the Platypus,

Continued on page 10

CBC dental hygiene grad gainsnational attention for Platypus fl osser

“Don’t give up your dental hygiene job!

During this process, I’ve invested $10,000 and my fi rst goal is to earn enough from my

licensing fee on the sale of Platypus fl ossers to

pay myself back.”


there were several details to work out. Manufacturing needed to be organized, which meant going from my crude prototype to the fi nal product.

This is quite exciting and should really improve the oral hygiene of those undergoing orthodontics. I’m sure other Townies would like to know, is this the way to get rich quick?

Morgan: My message to other hygienists with a product idea is don’t give up your dental hygiene job! During this process, I’ve invested $10,000 and my fi rst goal is to earn enough from my licensing fee on the sale of Platypus fl ossers to pay myself back that entire amount. After that, I’ll start counting a profi t. I love my job and working with kids and don’t plan to give it up any time soon.

I know you’ve been inspired by your patients, to fi nd a better way for them to maintain their oral health. Has anyone outside the dental offi ce inspired you?

Morgan: Another inspiration for me is my grandmother. She was pronounced terminally ill with a heart condition and given a poor prognosis. She was hooked up to machines in the hospital for a while. I noticed that the nurses were not brushing or fl ossing her teeth on a daily basis, which infuriated me

to no end! I thought “Don’t these nurses know that there is a strong correlation between periodontal disease and heart disease?”

The fact is that people with gum disease have a 25 percent greater risk of heart disease than those with healthy gums. When a patient suffers from gum disease, the cytokines and endotoxins responsible for the infl ammatory response are released into the blood stream. It has been proven that infl ammation in one area of the body can cause infl ammation in other areas of the body. Luckily, I was able to visit my grandmother on my lunch breaks and would fl oss and brush her teeth every day. I’m happy to report, she defi ed the prognosis of the doctors and is alive and kicking today!

Thank you Laura. You’re an inspiration to us all. You followed your passion and are making a difference with the Platypus, helping orthodontic patients effectively and easily fl oss to achieve good oral health. The Platypus is small enough to fi t in your back pocket, keep in the glove compartment in the car or in a nightstand in the bedroom, and it’s so easy to use.

Keep spreading the dental hygiene message of oral health and prevention. For more information, please visit www.pdtdental.com, or call 800-240-9895.

Coastal Bend CollegeDental Hygiene Clinic

Monday appointment times: 8:30 a.m., 10:30 a.m., 1 p.m., 3 p.m., and 5 p.m.

Wednesday appointment times: 8:30 a.m. and 10:30 a.m.

Fees: $10 for general public, $5 for CBC student.No charge for: Active Duty or Retired Military, CBC faculty, Senior citizens 65 and older

Call (361) 354-2555 for an appointment


Beeville: Med Aide RefresherLailey Sczepanik will teach a refresher

course in Medication Administration

for Med Aides on Saturdays. Med

Aides are required by law to complete

an annual 7-hour update prior to their

permit expiration date. Med Aides who

do not take the refresher will have to

retake the 140-hour Med Aide course.

One-day classes are 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

at CBC Lott-Canada Facility, 900 W.

Corpus Christi St. in Beeville, on the

following dates in 2009: Jan. 24, Feb.

21, March 21, April 25, May 23, June

27, July 25, Aug. 22, Sept. 26, Oct. 24,

Nov. 14 and Dec. 12.

Kingsville: Med Aide RefresherFloyd Green will teach a refresher

course in Medication Administration

for Med Aides on Saturdays. Med

Aides are required by law to complete

an annual 7-hour update prior to their

permit expiration date. Med Aides who

do not take the refresher will have to

retake the 140-hour Med Aide course.

One-day classes are 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

at Coastal Bend College – Kingsville

Campus in Kingsville, on the following

dates in 2009: Jan. 24, Feb. 21, March

21, April 25, May 23, June 27, July 25,

Aug. 22, Sept. 26, Oct. 24, Nov. 14 and

Dec. 12.

Beeville: YogalatesWorkout sessions with an emphasis on

Yogalates, a combination of yoga and

pilates, will be held on Mondays and

Wednesdays, Jan. 26- April 8 at Coastal

Bend College, Room B-126. Yogalates

targets all-around fl exibility, balance,

core work and stretching. Classes are

for all levels, using modifi cations if

necessary.

Beeville: Youth GuitarLinda Switzer will teach beginning

and intermediate guitar for six- to

eight-year-olds on Mondays evenings,

4-4:55 p.m. on Mondays, Jan. 26-May

4 at Coastal Bend College Gertrude R.

Jones Fine Arts Auditorium. Lessons

for nine- to 12-year-olds are Mondays,

5-5:55 p.m. on Mondays, Jan. 26-May 4.

Children must bring their own acoustic

guitar. The recital is May 4 at 7 p.m.

Beeville: Stained GlassSue Rogers will teach stained glass for

beginners during a fi ve-week course at

Roger’s Studio in Beeville. Students

will learn how to create stained glass

projects using the lead came and copper

foil methods. Classes are Tuesdays and

Thursdays, Jan. 27, 29; Feb. 3, 5 and 10.

Students can sign up for the morning

(9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.) or evening

(6:30-9:30 p.m.) workshop.

Beeville: BalletYoung ballet students will learn beauty,

poise, balance and grace through

exercise and movement of dance. They

will learn and perform a group of

exercises essential for developing the

muscles correctly. Classes for three-

to fi ve-year-olds are held on Tuesdays

Jan. 27 to April 21, 4:30-5:30 at Coastal

Bend College Gertrude R. Jones Fine

Arts Building in Beeville. Ages six to

12 meet on Tuesdays Jan. 27 to April

21, 5:45-6:45 p.m. Recital is April 14 at

6 p.m. Students will need black leotard,

pink tights, pink ballet shoes.

Beeville: Phlebotomy Gain venitech skills at CBC Lott-

Canada Facility. Class dates are Feb.

7 through March 7, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Participants are required to complete 15

8-hour days of clinicals. A high school

diploma or GED is required as well as

proof of TB test, MMR (rubella), and

Hepatitis immunization.

Beeville: Medical Admin I Lailey Sczepanik will teach Medical

Administration I for Certifi ed Nurse

Aides listed on the Texas Nurse Aide

Registry in active status. Classes will

be held on Mondays and Thursdays,

Feb. 9 to June 15, 5-9 p.m. at CBC

Lott-Canada Facility, 900 W. Corpus

Christi St.

Pleasanton: HVAC/Air Conditioning Coastal Bend is pleased to offer a

new program to teach HVAC/Air

Conditioning principles and start

students on a career path towards an

HVAC/Air Conditioning technician!

The class will begin Feb. 10 and run

every Monday and Wednesday evening,

6-9 p.m. This fi rst in a series of classes

will run for eight weeks or 48 contact

hours. Tuition for the class is $139 plus

fees and books.

Pleasanton: CNA Coastal Bend Pleasanton is now forming

C.N.A. (Certifi ed Nursing Assistant)

classes for the spring semester. Shot

(361) 362-COED

Continuing Ed off erings in January, February

Alice: (361) 664-2981 Ext. 3046

Beeville: (361) 362-2633

Kingsville: (361) 592-1615, Ext. 40553

Pleasanton: (830) 569-4222, Ext. 1223


¿Para más información?For more information, please contact Kay Past at

(361) 354-2401 or by e-mail: [email protected]

www.coastalbend.edu

MONTERREY April 24-26, 2009

Coastal Bend College does not discriminate on the basis of race, creed, color, national origin, gender, age, or disability.

CBC Spanish Club 9th Annual Excursion

To Monterrey, México Anyone can participate. The excursion is available to CBC students, staff,

families, friends and interested community members.

$248 includes: Double occupancy for 2 nights in Hotel Gran Ancira in downtown Monterrey, round-trip charter bus transportation from Beeville to Monterrey, excursions to Cola de Caballo, Paseo de Santa Lućia (Riverwalk), museums and other attractions. The price for a single occupancy is $308. The cost for a child, 12 or under, in a room with two adults is $175 per child. $50 deposit due by March 12; balance due by April 10, 2009.

Required for TravelU.S. Passport

OR Birth Certificate with State Sealand Photo Identification

Passports for land travel will be required after June 1, 2009.

records showing proof of the Hepatitis

B three-shot series or TITER test

confi rming Hepatitis B vaccination is

required. Evening classes will start

Jan. 22. Please apply now to reserve

your spot in the class. Financial aid is

available for those who qualify. Tuition

is $508 with an additional $172.70 in

supplies and fees.

Alice: Food Safety Food Safety Manager Certifi cation

Examination and Prep Course is an

education package which includes

the Food Safety Manager Training

preparation course and the Texas

Department of State Health Services

approved Food Protection Management

Examination. Classes will be held in

Alice on Feb. 21 and 28. Participants

must attend both sessions.

Beeville: WellnessKristi Rowlett teaches internal

exercises (Qi Gong) for weight

control and pain management. Class

includes introduction to Qi, healthy

nutrition, motivation and teaching

techniques. Class dates are Mondays

and Wednesdays, Jan. 5 to March 31,

6-8 p.m. at CBC Lot-Canada Facility.

Pleasanton: Leadership Atascosa County The next class for up-and-coming

leaders in Atascosa County is forming

for a Spring start. Leadership Atascosa

County (LAC) is a training program

based on the Texas Rural Leadership

Program curriculum. Participants

will earn continuing education credit

while learning skills that will enable

them to be more effective leaders in

the community. The Texas Rural

Leadership Program provides further

information at www.trlp.org.

Continuing Ed instructors wantedCoastal Bend College is expanding the

course offerings in continuing education

to include a wide variety of classes to

meet the needs of the community. There

is a need for more qualifi ed instructors.

If you can teach courses such a cake

decorating, cooking, dancing, music,

art, health-related topics, send your

resume to Glynis Strause, Coordinator

of Continuing Education, 3800 Charco

Road, Beeville, TX 78102 or email to

[email protected].

Instructors sought for Kids College Kids College, a program of children’s

summer activities, is planning for 2009

camp. Instructors are being sought for

courses such as art, music, martial

arts and other fun events that involve

children in educational opportunities.

If you are interested in teaching a

component of this program, send your

resume to Glynis Strause, Coordinator

of Continuing Education, 3800 Charco

Road, Beeville, TX 78102 or email to

[email protected].


Dia

Del M

aria

chi

Coastal Bend College does not discriminate on the basis of race, creed, color, national origin, gender, age, or disability

For more information contact:

Juan Jose Sanchez

Coastal Bend College

704 Coyote Trail Alice, TX 78332

(361) 664-2981, Ext. 3042 Fax: (361) 668-9277

or log on to www.mariachimusic.com

PLUS Special Guest Appearance

Saturday March 7, 2009 at 7:30 p.m. Selena Audtiorium, Corpus Christi, Texas

Present the Seventh Annual Dia Del Mariachi

Saturday, March 7, 2009

Dia Del Mariachi 2008 Winners Edinburg High School Mariachi Primer Orgullo: Best Overall Group;

Best Trumpet Section (tie); Best Violin/Flute Section; and Best Overall Group Vocalists.

cbc forum january/february 2009

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