Air National Guard Airman Luke A. Miller graduated from basic military training at Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland, San Antonio, Texas.
The airman completed an intensive, eight-week program that included training in military discipline and studies, Air Force core values, physical fitness, and basic warfare principles and skills.
Airmen who complete basic training earn four credits toward an associate in applied science degree through the Community College of the Air Force.
Miller earned distinction as an honor graduate. He is the son of Peggy Miller of Kansas City, Kan. The airman is a 2012 graduate of Piper High School, Kansas City, Kan.
Kansas City Kansas Community College Jazz Band members cited by outstanding musicianship and soloist recognition included (from left Jon Tobaben, Charles Glover, Rayvon Haggerty, Karriem Sayles, Levi Holgersen and Director Jim Mair. (KCKCC photo by Alan Hoskins)
by Alan Hoskins
To say that adjudicators at the Pittsburg State University Jazz Festival liked performances by the Kansas City Kansas Community College Jazz Band and two combos may be an understatement.
“Smokin’ band and killer charts!” wrote one adjudicator.
“Terrific work! Nice ensemble work and great solos. Well done,” wrote another
Bill Hartman, formerly of the Stan Kenton Orchestra, wrote “Great program, well played. Congratulations!”
The comments came as the KCKCC Jazz Band and combos 1 and 2 received No. 1 ratings at the Pittsburg State Jazz Festival for the 15th consecutive year.
Ten of the KCKCC musicians were cited for outstanding musicianship and soloist recognition.
They were Karriem Sayles of Wyandotte, piano; Richard Tucker, Sumner Academy, alto; Cole Mertz, Basehor-Linwood, trombone; Nelson Hanson, Lansing, vibes and drums; P.J. Churn, SM West, flute; Jon Tobaben, SM South, trumpet and voice; Levi Holgersen, McPherson, bass; Kenneth Watson, Knob Knoster, drums and voice; and Charles Glover of Olathe North and Rayvon Haggerty of Topeka High, both tenor saxophones.
In addition to performing, the KCKCC band was guest at a concert performed by the Bob Mintzer big band from Los Angeles.
