VOLUME 47 ISSUE 3
AGORA
February 8, 2005
MONROE COUNTY COMMUNITY COLLEGE
Cherry seeks transfer ease Taryn Kapp Editor-in-Chief
G
overnor Jennifer Granholm’s goal to double the amount of college graduates in the state within the next ten years may become reality. She appointed Lt. Gov. John Cherry to head the Commission on Higher Education and Economic Growth and come up with suggestions to attain this goal.
Sherman, Hamburg to retire
On January 28, Cherry visited Monroe County Community College (MCCC). He spoke to presidents and trustees from community colleges all over Michigan discussing the recommendations that will be given to Granholm. “Those are the things that the community colleges think that we would need to try to reach her goal,” Dave Nixon, MCCC president, said.
The recommendations include increasing K-12 school standards, increasing dual enrollment in high
“If I had to rank those I think the ease of transfer would be the most important to our students. That would
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An admirable goal...would be to work together all across the state to have one agreement with all of the colleges that every credit would transfer automatically. Dr. Dave Nixon, President
schools, and easing the transfer process.
be the greatest advantage to our students,” Nixon said.
Defense and discipline...
see “Transfer,” page 7
EAB bug destroys ash trees Gina Randazzo
Page Editor n the next few years, MCCC’s landscape will change on the main campus and at Whitman. Both campuses are going to lose a total of 225 ash trees that line the driveways, make up the center plaza and cover most of the campus. “We need those trees! 225 trees is a lot for a campus of this size. It will look so bare,” Lisa Patrick, MCCC student, said. The trees must be cut because of an insect known as the emerald ash borer (EAB), an exotic beetle that is destroying the ash trees on campus. The EAB attacks only ash trees, and the larvae feed on the inner bark, disrupting the tree’s ability to transport water and nutrients. “If the trees are not cut down, they will rot out and eventually become an eyesore,” Robert Pettit, biology teacher, said. The EAB has killed millions of ash trees in Michigan, Ohio and Indiana, but most of the damage is in southeastern Michigan. The only way to stop the EAB is to destroy the trees where it presides. Until a better solution is discovered, MCCC will pay to get the trees removed. The Foundation is looking into grant opportunities, but none have been found.
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Jackie Pacheco Assistant Editor udith Hamburg, Director of Extension Centers, can remember when she first began her job in 1984, there were only about 200-300 students that attending college at the Whitman Center. Now the official count is 1,021. Vicki Sherman, Director of Lifelong Learning since 1984, can remember when new phone lines were installed at Monroe County Community College (MCCC) and provided all the staff with their own extension. After many years in the job, the administrative staff members are retiring from MCCC this year. According to MCCC president David Nixon, both have done their share of hard work at the college. Sherman played a big role in boosting the popularity of Lifelong Learning. “Vicki is the engine that has driven Lifelong Learning at the college for a number of years and a lot of people look
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see, “Retire,” page 7
Colleges can lobby their ideas to the state legislature to help their situation and try to get it through the legislative process. For example, a college with no four year degree opportunities can try to lobby the idea of bringing those opportunities to the particular college. “An admirable goal for us would be to work together all across the state to have one
Agora photo by Sarah Max
Veronica Vincent and Blake Healy practice self-defense during the tae kwon do class offered through LIfelong Learning.
Search for deans still underway Jeff Berry
Reporter he academic dean position for the humanities/ social sciences division has been vacant since January 3 and the dean of industrial technology position has been vacant as of August 30, 2004.
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The committee in charge of reviewing applications for the vacant dean of humanities/social sciences position has yet to make its recommendation for a possible candidate to the vice president of instruction. The new Dean of Humanities will be in charge of planning,
budgeting, organizing, and administration the humanities program. The dean is responsible for leading and supervising teaching and nonteaching staff members within the division; as well as responsibility for special activities such as; the college
newspaper, choir, band, and drama. According to Vice President of Instruction, Grace Yackee, Monroe County Community College (MCCC) needs not only a strong administrator, but someone who will lead the faculty, is a content
expert in the field they are applying, and who is an expert supervisor and manager. The committee has sorted through applications for the Humanities position and met with their top five choices, but have yet to find the right candidate for the job.
see “Deans,” page 7
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Agora
Opinion
February 8, 2005
Parents question video game content Matt Pruitt Reporter Grand Theft Auto, Doom 3, and Counter-Strike — all violent, all video games. Video games have undergone extreme scrutiny the past few years for their aggressive content. Despite the successful ESRB (Entertainment Software Rating Board) ratings, there are still complaints. Will everyone ever be completely happy? I don’t believe so. Video games have become a scapegoat for violent crimes carried out by young individuals. Every time a crime occurs, there is speculation and investigation into the video games the particular individual was playing and how he or she wanted to replicate the events in it.
“Parents should be responsible for what their child is playing and I’d encourage them to be attentive to ratings that games are given. It’s why we have them,” said Jon Long, publicist at Electronic Arts. This brings up an interesting point. Where are the parents when bombs are being made in their garage or attack plans in their house? Every parent wants to believe that their child isn’t capable of doing such things, but every parent must also be aware that there is always a possibility. Jon went on to say that “to be aware of what a rating on a game means, one should do the proper research either by visiting the ESRB (http://www.esrb.org) or by asking a sales representative at a retailer.”
I believe that violent video games do not cause violence. There is a plethora of successful and self-controlling people out there that play the games, and are a living testament that an individual can tell the difference between fantasy and reality. I spoke to Jean Thompson, mother of three children between the ages of 6 and 14. “The rating system really tells me what my kids should and should not be playing. Every parent should check this rating and check out the review of the game online before purchasing,” she said. A person blaming a violent crime or action on a video game is just trying to escape reality. The fact of the matter is that it’s time to face up to the fact that people will commit violent
God, young adult groups provide outlet for teens
Agora photo courtesty of www.planetgrandtheftauto.com
Main character Carl Johnson in Grand Theft Auto- San Andreas.
actions with or without video games.
It’s just a matter of taking away their excuse.
Steroids in sports create unfair play Gary Knox Reporter Fairness is one of sports most critical tenants. With the recent steroid controversy that tenant has put Major League Baseball into serious question. Former St Louis Cardinal slugger Mark McGuire publicly admitted to using a performance enhancing substance legal in baseball however banned from all other sports. McGuire went on to break the home run single season record once held by Roger Maris. Is that fair? In late 2004 the steroid controversy gained even more steam. The San Francisco Chronicle got wind of grand jury testimony by N e w Yo r k Ya n k e e J a s o n Giambi and San Francisco Giant Barry Bonds. In their testimonies both players admitted to steroid use. What have these two accomplished? Giambi became a perennial All Star and Bonds reached more legendary heights, now holding the single season record for most home runs in a season with 73 and inching closer to
s h a t t e r i n g H a n k A a r o n ’s record for most career home runs. It is now appropriate to bury your face in a favorite baseball cap. It took such horrid publicity for Bud Selig to finally adopt a plan to crack down on steroid use. The plan includes testing for every major league player and a season long suspension without pay for an fourth time offender. “It’s going to be a clean game again,” said St Louis Cardinal reliever Ray King. Players as well as management have embraced the policy with open arms. “This is real progress,” said Los Angeles Dodger owner Frank McCourt Seattle Mariner outfielder Randy Winn said the policy would “make the game fair again.” Wa i t , d i d h e s a y f a i r ? While it is true the new policy will limit steroid use the major league level, to truly m a k e t h e g a m e f a i r, accomplishments by those players who had the so called “extra edge” must be wiped from the record books. Unless we do this, Major League Baseball may survive steroids but integrity and fairness will not.
“I don’t know how it hasn’t affected my life. Page Editor When you are around people As college students we who go through the same face many difficult choices in things as you, it helps you. our lives, what classes to Nobody here looks at the negative things in your life; instead they look at the positive and bring those qualities out of you. The Junction has helped me to become the individual I am today,” Strimpel said. We all take a look at our daily life and we look to better ourselves. We make sure we are moving closer to our goals. We all want to succeed in life. If you want Agora photo courtesy of Stewart Road Christian Ministry Center this don’t settle, try The Junction group meets on Wednesday nights at 7:00 p.m. The something different, don’t leader of the group is Kenyetta Whipper. lose focus on your dreams, take, our major, the choice to tough issues. No matter what and don’t let anything stop slack off or to study and do i t i s , s t r u g g l i n g w i t h you. I have been in that place our work, and even the choice finances, relationships with where it seems like all hope of how to spend our ‘down friends, parents, and even is gone, but don’t give up, time’. Besides our jobs, we with the opposite sex, or stop trying to be someone have to do something to get pregnancies, even feeling different, and just stand. u s a w a y f r o m a l l t h e depressed like no one needs For more information you pressure of this world. you around, or if you are just can contact Stewart Road I think the most important sick of life, we can help. In Christian Ministry Centers at factor of our lives is seeing these groups we talk, we 1 - 7 3 4 - 2 4 1 - 1 0 0 0 and if our choices make positive hang out, and we have fun. Cathedral of Praise at 1-419or negative outcomes. If we We aren’t stuck up with our 882-8463. a r e a l w a y s s u b m e r g i n g religion; we are real. ourselves in events that only One thing I’ve learned is leave us wishing we never did that with God all things are The Agora is published by the students of Monroe County Community College, 1555 South Raisinville Road, Monroe, Michigan, 48161. The editorial office is located in 202 of the Life Science Building, (734) 384-4186, agora@monroeccc.edu. them, how do we become possible. Instead of going to successful? the bar or making other bad Editorial Policy: Unsigned editorials represent the majority opinion of the Agora staff. Signed columns represent the I a t t e n d y o u n g a d u l t decisions, I chose to stand opinion of the writer. All letters-to-the-editor must include a signature, address, and phone number for verification g r o u p s a t S t e w a r t R o a d up for what is right. purposes. The Agora reserves the right to edit for clarity, accuracy, length, and libel. Christian Ministry Centers in Daniel Strimpel attends The Agora is a student-managed newspaper that supports a free student press and a member of the Michigan Community Monroe on Wednesdays and the Junction, the young adult College Press Association, the Michigan Collegiate Press Association, the Michigan Press Association, the Community Cathedral of Praise in Toledo g r o u p i n M o n r o e , a n d College Journalism Association, College Media Advisers, Associated Collegiate Press, and the Student Press Law Center. on Saturdays, where yes, we b e l i e v e s i t m a k e s a focus on God, but we also difference. Mark Bergmooser, Adviser
Erica Brewer
encourage each other. We don’t just settle with that thing that holds us back from succeeding, but we come together as a group of young adults and we deal with the
The Agora Editorial Policy
Agora 3 Campus News Trading New club debuts on TV spaces February 8, 2005
Kelyn Dillon Copy Editor MCCC is planning to overhaul the LAL to better assist students with their academic needs. Two companies have placed bids on the renovation project. “It wasn’t a very inviting place for students to come,” Bill McCloskey Professor of English said. Once the remodeling is done there will be more privacy, less noise, updated technology, more space, and better access for handicapped students. “The whole area will be designed for tutoring,” Tim Dillon Associate Professor o f E n g l i s h a n d WA C Coordinator said. “ We [ t h e Wr i t i n g Fellows] needed our own delineated space,” Tennery Hicks Writing Fellow said. Office space for counseling will be provided a n d t h e Wr i t i n g C e n t e r portion will include individual workstations with soundproof walls and computers. Also, the room will be divided into two sections with half-partitioned walls, one section for the Writing Center and another for Supplemental Instruction. “Even with the renovation the space is cramped because there are so many different services and it’s a very busy place,” Dillon said. David Reiman, Director of Learning Resources, said that the primary goal for the renovation is to “provide spaces more conducive to students tutoring and supplemental instruction… to provide space for testing, a quiet space and make it more inviting.” Construction is set to start at the end of winter semester and the new LAL may be ready by the fall semester of 2005. During the spring and summer semesters, SI tutoring and the Writing Center will be in different rooms in the CLRC building. “The ideal situation would be a much larger area or separate rooms for each service and we hope that will happen in the future,” Dillon said. “ O v e r a l l e v e r y o n e ’s pretty happy,” McCloskey said.
The show had it’s debut on Monday February 7 at 7:00 p.m. It will be replayed every Monday at 7 p.m. and Tuesday at 11 a.m. during February. The members of the club will be creating fundraisers to help fund the club. Currently the club has ten active members. Anyone can join. The officers of the broadcasting club include president Kelly Smock, vice president Gary Davis, secretary Mallory Alexin and treasurer Bryan Kloster. “I was on Monroe High School Radio and yearbook staff and really liked what we did. This Agora Photo by Jenny Creekmore Broadcasting club vice president Gar y Davis edits gave me an opportunity to pursue the show MC3 Spotlight. it again,” Alexin said. Both Beaudry and MCCC television program that will President Dave Nixon felt that this Jenny Creekmore highlight activities, events, and would be an excellent opportunity Page Editor Monroe County Community programs at MCCC. This for students at the college College (MCCC) has adopted a program will be aired on interested in pursuing a Monroe’s local access cable communications degree to get new broadcasting club. The club meets at MPACT channel, MPACT (Monroe Public some hands on experience in studios and produces a show Access Cable television) producing a television program called MC3 Spotlight highlights transmitted on Comcast channel and operating a radio station. 13 and Charter Communication MCCC academics. “I am exploring broadcasting “The broadcasting club will channel 18,” Milward Beaudry, as a possible career choice and broadcasting club advisor, said. be producing a 30 minute
the club is a great way for me to see if it is what I want to do for there is no better way to know what you want to do until you actually do it,” Gary Davis, Vice President, said. “I want to share what I have learned during the past 23 years in the broadcast business,” Beaudry said.
Agora Photo By Jenny Creekmore
Aaron Braun takes a look at his notes before presenting the show.
Scholarships fatten wallets Heather Prusaitis Reporter Many students try year after year to pay off those college debts, in order for them to further their education. One way that will help students from their freshman to sophomore year is the scholarships offered by the Financial Aid office to just about any that apply. Pell Grants are one of the most popular that students have. They are awards from the government based on “demonstrated need” and are not loans. Scholarships can vary from the B.J. Harmon
Mathematics Scholarship for those with a 3.0 GPA or higher to the Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Scholarship for any Monroe County resident. “There is a certain Fine Arts scholarship for those who have been here for one year. It is awarded to only one person at a time,” said C. Gary Wilson, Associate Professor of Art. The Dr. Florence Ames Fine Art Scholarship is offered for a full time art major. There are the betterknown scholarships such as the Pearl K. Quermbach Memorial Scholarship, or the
Robbin Ramage Memorial Scholarship for full-time students. There are some scholarships for certain professions such as the Mercy Memorial Nursing Scholarship offering $1,000 per year, the Mercy Memorial Hospital Guild Scholarship offering $1,500 per year, or the Beach Culinary Scholarship which varies in amount. “We have a few scholarships so we usually have about three per year,” said Kevin Thomas, Director of the Culinary Arts Dept. Some scholarships have many requirements such as the George Rhodes Scholarship for
part-time students who have worked at least one semester in a tutoring program at MCCC, recipient must be active in MCCC tutoring program during award year, and have a 3.0 GPA or higher. For those who do not qualify, and are familiar with t h e l o a n i n g p r o c e s s , t he Federal Family Education Loan Program offers lowinterest loans for students. “There are a lot of scholarships that are not based on how much money people make. I do encourage people to apply,” said Tracy Vogt, Director of Financial Aid.
SI still successful Amanda Lundy Reporter
Agora Photo By Amanda Lundy
An SI Leader tutors students.
There is an alternative to getting a tutor! Monroe County Community College (MCCC) students have been given the opportunity to gather in a sort of school organized study group. This study group, called Supplemental Instruction (SI), is a series of weekly review sessions in which students can take charge of their learning through the guidance of a carefully trained SI leader. In an informal setting, students are given the opportunity to ask questions,
compare notes, discuss important concepts, and take practice tests. “SI helps students learn to study, which can be applied to all classes,” said Sara Aftanas one of MCCC’s SI student leaders. Those who choose to participate in SI usually enjoy it, and feel benefited. “Discussing the topics with another student, especially one who already took the class, has really helped me understand the course content better,” Rebecca Kominek, MCCC student said. “SI is gauged for the historically difficult courses rather than for the at-risk student,” said Beth Kamprath, SI Liaison.
“We hope it gives students the opportunity to ask questions that they might feel were too stupid to be asked in class.” SI leaders, like Aftanas, are students who have successfully completed the course and have been trained to help students. The SI leader attends and participates in class as preparation for the SI meetings held at least twice a week. The program was introduced to MCCC during the fall of 1991, and has been growing ever since. About eight courses are involved in the program this semester, including accounting, algebra, and the sciences.
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Feature
Agora
February 8, 2005
MCCC teachers take sabbatical, reach out “ Wi t h i n m y t h r e e months at the Wishing Star I was able to help over 50 children,” Gale Odneal said. Odneal’s daughter Susan worked as an occupational therapist at the Benjam i n Bloom Hospital.
Living Water International to develop safe water projects in El Reporter Salvado. Dean of Health Sciences Gail “Gail’s sabbatical work and Odneal and Assistant Professor experience are beyond measure of Mathematics Khadija Ahmed when discussing its applicability both took time away from to the nursing education,” teaching to experience Yackee said. “She not only sabbaticals. brings real life experience to the “Gail requested a six nursing students, but month sabbatical for the serves as a model purpose of renewing her for nursing faculty.” nursing practice skills “Khadija Ahmed through guided study, was awarded a clinical practice, and field sabbatical to work,” Grace Yackee, conduct a study of Vice President, said. the mathematics “I really wanted to live requirements for in another country and be education programs productive,” Odneal said. at institutions in “It was one of the things several countries,” my husband and I had Yackee said. always wanted to do.” Ahmed wanted to Gale Odneal worked at create a math project Photo courtesy of Gail Odneal for the two semester an organization in El Salvador called the Wishing The staff and children at Wishing Star in El math for elementary Salvador at the time of Gail Odneal’s departure. Star. A place which holds Odneal spent three months there working at the teacher courses. sick children released from Benjamin Bloom Hospital. She also wanted to the Benjamin Bloom Hospital. “If a kid needed a splint look at education programs in the The Benjamin Bloom Hospital is Susan made it from scratch,” United States to research the the only hospital in Central Odneal said. expected credentials of teachers. America. It has 300 beds which Odneal and her husband are “I would like them [students] are always filled to capacity. now working with Rotary and to evaluate the math textbooks
Kelly Smock
they will be teaching from and to think about required standards in the United States and about the implications of the results of the TIMMS study,” Ahmed said. The United States National Research Center reported that the Third International Mathematics and Science Study (TIMSS) represents the most extensive investigation of mathematics and science education ever conducted. Approximately 50 countries have participated in this study. “The content is the same in most of the countries. One factor that seems to make a difference is that teachers of these countries meet and discuss lessons amongst themselves so they can continue to learn through this process. I want to encourage students to be engaged and work together when they are teaching,” Ahmed said. The results of Ahmed’s study are being used to develop and integrate an international component into the content of existing mathematics classes at MCCC.
Viking invades Michigan chasers Monroe area investigate local Danny Carmack Reporter
The Vikings are invading Monroe. Carl Eller, one of the 2004 Hall of Fame inductees, is coming to Monroe County Community College (MCCC). He will be making two appearances in Monroe County. One appearance will be at MCCC in the Meyer Theater at the La-Z-Boy Center on February 21 and the other
Photo courtesy of kansasviking.com
Carl Eller will be visiting MCCC on Feb. 21, 2005
appearance will be at Arthur Lesow CommunityCenter(ALCC)laterinthe day. “Monroe County Community College is delighted to announce that oneoftheBlackHistoryeventsisgoing to be an appearance by Carl Eller.” David Nixon, MCCC president said.
“As the college president, I am pleasedbecauseheisanindividualwho can speak to young people at a level thattheywillunderstandandgivethem some encouragement and advice on how they can overcome lifes’ difficulties.” TheArthurLesowCommunityCenter in Monroe, Michigan is for children of Monroe to enjoy activities such as boys’basketball,girls’volleyball,study groups, field trips and a kids club. The ALCC is proud to have someone of Carl Eller’s’stature come to the center and visit the children of Monroe. “Actually, I’m really excited. I think for the kids here it will be a really good experience. One, it is going to be somebody that is accessible and two, this is going to be someone that they can tangibly see.” William sweat, Executive Director of theALCC said. This is a joint sponsorship between the MCCC Diversity Committee and MCCC Student Government. Carl Eller’s tentative schedule for the day will be a 10 am in the Meyer Theater for the students of MCCC. Noontime, he will be at a luncheon held in the college cafeteria. Then, at 3pm he will be at the ALCC A small venue such as Monroe Michigan, Carl Eller will definitely leave his impact here, just as he did in the NFL.
hauntings
Sarah Queen Reporter “If there’s something strange in your neighborhood, who you gonna call?” In Michigan, The Ghost Chasers of Michigan are happy to answer the call. The Ghost Chasers of Michigan (GCOM), a group of paranormal investigators, try to explain and disprove paranormal activity. The group was formed out of a love and interest for the unknown. “We are all skeptical about the subject of our study, nine times out of ten the cause of a haunting is someone’s imagination, but there is always that one time where the normal laws of science do not come into play,” Dino Brancato, founder of GCOM, said. “Skepticism can go too far, and many scientists choose to deal with anomalies simply by denying their existence,” Richard S. Broughton, author of Parapsychology: The Controversial Science, said. People are normally afraid of ghosts because ghosts are por-
trayed as being evil. However, if someone senses a paranormal presence in their home the Ghost Chasers of Michigan would recommend they let it be. “A ghost is a person, and if that person were mean spirited in life they would be the same way in death,” Brancato said.
Photo courtesy of d b r a n c . t r i p o d . c o m
The Ghost Chasers of Michigan are committed to conducting and investigating hauntings.
“But most of the time, ghosts don’t even realize that they are being watched.” Chasing or hunting a ghost involves the use of some un-
see “Ghost,” page 7
Winter weather watch Veronica Terry Page Editor
Living in Michigan, especially near the lake, we all know how incredibly cold it can get around here. Most people, though, do not realize that those temperatures can be extremely dangerous to their health. Here are some tips to staying warm in the cold weather, with the help of Chiff.com and Yubanet.com: 1. Wear a hat! “There’s an old adage that if your feet are cold, you should put on a hat,” Josh Baker, co-director of Colgate University’s outdoor education program, said. Baker also suggested a headlamp because it keep a user’s head warm and also acts as a light, allowing the user to remain outdoors even longer. 2. Layers aren’t just for ogres! Break out the long underwear and fleeces. The more layers, the warmer. But it doesn’t all have to be heavy. Try something that’s windresistant. For colder days, try the wool pants, if you dare. 3. Mittens beat gloves! Because in mittens, wearers’ fingers are touching, generating and sharing heat, they are just logically warmer. Gloves are good for driving and short walks, but if you are going to be outside of a while, pick up a pair of mittens. 4. This little piggy cried... Remember, your toes are just like your fingers. They need circulation and the ability to wiggle around a little bit. Putting on several pairs of socks will not help keep them warm. Try a pair of synthetic or wool liner socks... just one pair. 5. Chug, chug! “Your body needs water to keep your blood pumping and p eople tend to become dehydrated in the winter without knowing,” Baker said. Drink lots of water, warm or cold, the keep that circulation going and avoid becoming dehydrated. Remember, cold-winteradventurers: always check the news to make sure it is safe to be outside. Frostbite can be painful, but it can also be life-threatening. Take good care of yourself this winter.
Feature
February 8, 2005
Agora
5
Nursing program exemplifies profession Erica Brewer 2.5 and a score of 17 on the ACT for their patients,” Masters “Our clinical instructors have added. as well. expertise in a wide variety of The students are also clinical settings to make sure our “There is a significant time commitment that every nursing expected to travel to their weekly students get the diversity they student must make to be a part clinical session. Their class days need,” said Masters. of the program. First Besides classroom y e a r attendance, they student must practice in the J a m i e nursing lab so they Brown have the necessary spends, on skills,” Kathleen average, Masters, Assistant 50 hours a Professor of Jamie Brown, first year nursing student w e e k Nursing, said. doing the “They also must do considerable research on are Monday through Wednesday requirements for the program, their assigned patients each with the clinical class period plus works at least 20 hours a week and prepare a written plan meeting on Thursday and Friday. week. for how they are going to care
Page Editor
With clinicals, care plans, labs, and the required classes, the nursing program at Monroe County Community College (MCCC) could be compared to a boot camp. Each year the college permits 40 students into the program. There are many requirements to the two-year degree from personal priorities and shifting of schedules, to prerequisite classes and travel. The students are required to get a physical examination, update their immunizations, they must have an accumulative grade point average of at least
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I get a hands on experience which builds confidence because you get to see what you’re doing.
“There are higher standards in the program. It is a lot harder than any of my previous schooling. The best part is the clinical. I get a hands on experience which builds confidence because you get to see what you’re doing,” Brown said. “The nursing program was challenging and time consuming. The professors pushed you hard and had high expectations from you,” Tammy Murdock, MCCC graduate, said. “After you graduate you realize it was all worth it because you had gotten your degree in two years.”
Professors forbid Flag up on 2005 Nascar season redundant topics Datona 500 countdown underway Danny Carmack
Shawna Farley Reporter
tried to create assignments that are hard to find on the internet to prevent plagiarism. “The first category is what I call ‘high school’ topics, such as boyfriend and girlfriend, cheerleading, sports or jocks verses the burnouts. The second category is the ‘closed mind’ or this is what I believe in spite of any evidence to the contrary such as religion, abortion, capital punishment, gender bias, gun control. The third category is the ‘easy to find on the Internet’ topics,” he said. “I’m open as far as topics go, though anyone who wanted to write about abortion, creationism vs. evolution, and other emotionally charged issues is taking on a daunting task.” Terry Telfer, Associate Professor of English, said. “Emotionally charged issues involve a moral absolute. If students are against abortion, they can’t compromise their position because then they would be compromising their morals,” She said. Orwin and Couch both advised students to see a reference librarian at MCCC to figure out a strategy on how to tackle a topic. The reference librarian can help find valid sources that professors were looking for. The thesis of this article is avoid writing on abortion and if there is doubt, ask your professor about your topic idea before the deadline.
You have decided to write a fantastic paper on abortion. Stop! Four out of five professors interviewed are against it. Three have created a hand out that forbids it. One called it a daunting task that heeds a warning. “Abortion, prayer in school, or anything with a moral or ethical theme,” should be avoided Assistant Professor of English, Lori Jo Couch, said. A student could become bound to their beliefs surrounding their paper with an opinion instead of equally weighing facts. Find a topic that you do not already have a conclusion for. “Do young people vote,,” Ann Orwin, Assistant Professor of English, Education & Journalism, asked. She wanted to see creativity and a topic of importance to her students. Try and find a topic that has not been done. “Abortion, Capital Punishment, is topics a student probably did in high school,” Orwin said. Dr. William E. McCloskey Professor of English wanted a student to be able to learn more. “If it’s new to the student it may be okay, Abortion, cancer, or gun control are broad,” McCloskey said. Associate Professor of English & WAC Coordinator, Tim Dillon, talked about topics with his students. He had topics separated into categories and
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Reporter The Daytona 500, The Great American Race is being held on February 20, in Daytona Beach, Florida at the Daytona International Speedway. The first race of the Nascar Nextel Cup season is also one of the biggest races outside of the 10 race Chase for the Cup. Rusty Wallace has his last chance to attempt to win the Daytona 500. It is a race he has never won in his long and illustrious twenty-one year career in the Nextel Cup. “Everyone is excited and extremely upbeat, Ryan Newman and his team had a very good test at Daytona, along with Travis Kvapil. Rusty (Wallace) is extremely excited about this year and to see how the new Dodge Charger will perform.” Deb
Agora photo courtesy of Nascar.com
2004 Daytona 500 winner Dale Earnhardt Jr.
Williams, spokeswoman for Penske Racing said. Roush Racing’s 2004 Nascar Nextel Champion Kurt Busch is set
to defend his title against the likes of newcomers Kyle Busch (Kurt’s younger brother), Kasey Kahne, Travis Kvapil, and Carl Edwards. Seasoned veterans that want the Nextel title and have a legitimate shot are Mark Martin, Jeff Gordon, Sterling Marlin and Dale Jarrett. “All of the teams are enthused and really gung-ho about going to Daytona and bringing another (Nextel) championship home.” Cindy Flesiona spokeswoman for Roush Racing said. Not to be forgotten is the powerful duo of Michael Waltrip and Dale Earnhardt Jr. who have completely dominated the Daytona 500 for the past 6 seasons combing to win 4 out of 6 races. “I’ve got my money on Rusty Wallace to win the Daytona 500 on his final try.” Ricky Dye, MCCC student said.
Evaluations hit online forum Have you ever wondered what past students have thought about your future professors? Are they easy? Hard? Are they hot? The answer to these questions and more are available at www.ratemyprofessors.com, a website that allows students to anonymously voice their opinions about their teachers. When the site is accessed, you browse an alphabetical listing of nearly all of Monroe C o u n t y Community College’s ( M C C C ) p r o f e s s o r s . Each name listed has an overall quality rating, an easerating, and for the lucky ones, a special symbol that signifies how hot they are. The site can be used as a source of entertainment, as a way to vent about or praise former teachers, or as an insight into what you can expect from your future classes.
“The site was useful,” said MCCC student Rachael Messineo. “There were a couple of professors where the ratings were right on. There were also a couple of things you could only know if you took the class, like homework load and lecture style.” “I’ve heard of the site but I don’t think it’s necessary for MCCC,” said MCCC student
think it could be a useful reference for students who were looking to transfer. They could look up the ratings of professors in a particular division they are interested in.” “Our students’ perceptions of each of us are most valuable,” said Jack Staas, Associate Professor of Psychology. “However, in my 8 years as a student in college, I had s o m e outstanding professors -Jack Stass who received low ratings.” Professor of Psychology “This is not a useful Mark Blancke. “The community s i t e because there is small enough to where word- are no contacts and there is no of-mouth is enough to decide idea of the motivation behind the who to take.” comments,” said Tim Dillon, What do MCCC professors Associate Professor of English. think of the site? “However, these students have John Schneeg, Assistant a right to do this and I would not Professor of Mechanical try to stop them.” Engineering Technology, said: “I
“ ” Our students perceptions of each of us are most valuable.
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Author leaves readers on edge Dave Herndon Page Editor Just who is Dan Brown? Until recently many people did not know the answer to that question. The success of his most recent novel “The DaVinci Code” has sprung the author into the international spotlight. Brown has actually written four novels over the past eight years. The first of which was “Deception Point,” which was followed by “Digital Fortress.” Both of his first two books were stand-alone novels. In his third novel “Angels & Demons,” he introduced his keynote character, Robert Langdon, who would be the main character of his next book as well. This was his most popular book up to that time. The release of his most recent book was met with mixed emotions. It was entitled “The DaVinci Code.” This book launched Brown from an author with a small cult following to an international best selling author. “Code” quickly became the number one book in the nation, and then the world. This also made the sale of his other books quickly rise. Last year he had all four of his published novels on the bestseller list at the same time. How is it that his books have become so popular? At the beginning of all of his novels someone is murdered. The people range from a little known scientist, to the pope. His books begin similarly, but that is where the comparisons stop. Sure they are all part of the same genre of writing but the stories are each extremely detailed in both fact and fiction. Brown blurs the line of fact and fiction so much that it is nearly impossible to tell where the facts end and his story starts. Each one of his books is extremely fast paced, and a definite thriller. His next book is currently unnamed, but will feature Robert Langdon again. For the first time, Langdon will have an adventure on American soil. His next adventure will have Langdon exploring the history of Washington D.C.
A&E Don’t leave home without ‘em:
February 8, 2005
Tips for spring break travelers
Sarah Max Reporter
Spring break vacation is February 28- March 4 and will be upon us soon. It’s never too soon to start choosing your destination and mode of travel. “It’s best to start spring break planning around September,” Sharon Stump, C a r l s o n Wa g o n l i t Tr a v e l agent, said. “At this time, flights are hard to find. When you are trying to decide where to go, there
are a few things to keep in mind. Don’t be afraid to ask friends or relatives if you can stay with them. Even though partying may be at the top of your agenda, pick a location where there are other things to keep your interest. When traveling by air, Stump suggests arriving approximately two hours before departure. Put your trusty back pack to use and pack plenty of things to keep you content like books, magazines, music, snacks
and drinks. Sometimes those little bags of peanuts just don’t cut it. A change of clothes and some small toiletry items are very important! You never know when you might have a clothing emergency. If driving, take advantage of the free mapping service on mapquest.com and print a detailed map of your route directly to and from your destination. Be sure to pick up a standard road atlas, however, just in case. Have your vehicle
checked and be prepared in case of an emergency. This includes having your cell phone charged. Save time, money, and probably your stomach by packing a cooler, which may tide you over in case you have car trouble. When traveling as a group, make sure to go over expenses and agree on how to split them prior to leaving!
DJ personalities rock cyberspace Shawna Farley Reporter Depending on your computer and ability to learn software you can be trained and an internet icon in a week. Chris Ray, co-owner of www.rockngames.com, and administrator at 106.7 FM in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, is looking for people who have a good presence and enthusiasm in their voice. “The internet helped me gain the confidence to step up to the microphone at my day job,” Ray said. Brian Kuchmak from Washington and the Owner of www.creekradio.com, is looking for applicants with potential and a willingness to try.
“Most start out nervous and eventually calm down and let go. When that happens, it’s an awesome feeling,” Kuchmak said. Online gaming is the base for internet radio stations but, is competitive. A dj has to be proactive and search for new listeners while finding an edge to keep their audience from going to another station. Kuchmak and Ray do not require a dj to be in an internet game. Some stations do. “I prefer to keep my focus on my listeners,” Ray said. Amanda Hultine, a stay at home mom and full time college student from Wisconsin, is a co-owner with Ray.
“This is a great opportunity to express my wild side,” Hultine said. She started as a listener for three weeks and connected her home stereo system to the computer and tuned in while she cleaned her house. She listened to a show that talked about body piercings and decided to pierce her breast. “Make sure you are single or in a secure relationship,” Randall Baker, a DJ from Texas, said. Baker has been invited to view cams from overzealous fans that were explicit. If you are outgoing, want to entertain, or inform a listener base that could reach all over the world this could be your opportunity.
Getting started: Computer with 1.0 ghz processor or higher At least 300 (PAID FOR) mp3 songs Soundcard with headset and microphone Winamp software that is available for free download Cable or dsl connection
Santa Claus + Martians = perfect mix
VHS: Veronica’s Hollywood Scoop Veronica Terry Page Editor Christmas may be over, but it’s never too late in the year for a completely off the wall Christmas comedy. Take for example, the 1964 classic Santa Claus Conquers the Martians. Okay, so maybe it isn’t exactly a classic. Actually, the
chances of anyone ever even hearing of the movie are pretty slim, in less of course they happen to be “Mystery Science Theatre 3000” fans. I admit that’s where I heard of it. And with huge stars like... Pia Zadora and Bill McCutcheon, how could this masterpiece go wrong? The plot is pretty standard. The children on Mars are avid fans on the Earth news. Around Christmas time, at the North Pole where it is 91 degrees below zero, a reporter stops into the workshop for a quick interview with Santa. When the Mars children see Santa Claus and all his wonderful gifts for the children of Earth, they are saddened because Mars does not have someone like Santa.
The Martians decide that Mars needs a Santa more than Earth, so they journey to Earth to kidnap the one and only Santa Claus. In the process of finding the North Pole, they get lost in America (what are the odds?) Already on their way to being intergalactic fugitives, they kidnap two little Earth kids, who are the worst child actors I have ever seen in my life. To make a long story short, they finally get to the North Pole, but the earth children escape. They run around in the snow, making tracks everywhere they go. Eventually, they hide in a cave. This is the absolute best scene in any movie ever. Billy and Betty, the earth children, decide, after about 10 seconds, that they should go look outside the
cave... for some unknown reason, don’t ask me. Just as they get outside, the most amazing polar bear comes out from behind a big snow pile. To call it the worst costume ever would be incorrect, but it comes very close. The head is obviously detached from the rest of the body. The mouth is frozen in the exact same position constantly. Moments after the bear scene, however, enters the best costume in the history of cinema, and possibly the world... Torg. Torg is an advanced Martian robot. He is made of cardboard boxes which are painted silver and have dials glued onto them. Is the rest of the movie even important after this?
see “VHS,” page 7
February 8, 2005 from “Transfer,” page 1 agreement with all of the colleges that every credit would transfer automatically. With most colleges we have that already, and if you complete an associate degree at this college you shouldn’t have any problem transferring into any of those and they’ll take all your credits,” said Nixon.
from, “Deans,” page 1 “No one really impressed us,” Yackee said. “I would rater take more time to get the right person.” Martha Crawmer is the charing the committee in search of the dean of humanities and social sciences. The minimum requirements for the dean of humanities/social sciences position are: the applicant must have a master’s degree in one of the humanities or social sciences disciplines and teaching experience, posses leadership skills, ability to develop curriculum and market programs, and experience developing and managing budgets. Although teaching experience in a community college is preferred, it is not required. “About half of the 50 applicants met the minimum qualifications,” Crawmer said. A Committee will start reviewing applications for dean of industrial technology Feb. 28. “Idealistically, the positions will be filled around
from “Ghost,” page 4 usual equipment. Digital Sound Recording devices, Electromagnetic Field Meters, as well as digital and analog video cameras are all taken out on location. Recorded temperature changes and sound recordings are important in an investigation because they can be recorded as physical evidence. The GCOM are invited to investigate places where people feel uncomfortable on account of strange happenings. Sound and video recordings are taken, as well as digital pictures and temperature readings.
from “VHS,” page 6 The antagonist of the film, Voldar, has been against his Martian friends the entire movie. Once they capture Santa Claus, he tries to kill him and the earth children several times, always failing miserable, because, after all, he is an inept Martian. Santa is put to work in a toy shop, but after a few days, hands the position over to the wacky, lazy, possibly-mentallyhandicapped Dropo. Voldar is defeated with ping-pong balls and
In the Mix
However, this is not always the case. “I went online to check out the University of Michigan transfer guide... from what I could actually figure out, quite a few of my classes won’t transfer there. I may graduate from here, but I won’t be in junior standing there,” Michele Hawthorn, MCCC student, said. May,” Crawmer said. According to Don Kehrer, committee search member and assistant professor of automotive engineering technology, the new dean of industrial technology will oversee all industrial programs and a large apprentice program. The new dean will also work with industry and will need to know what’s going on in industry and how it relates to the industrial division. Former dean of technology, Pat Nedry stepped down after one year contracts for dean positions were put into practice. “I have more assured opportunity as a faculty member,” Nedry said. Committee member, Joellen Locher is assisting in the search for the dean of humanities/social sciences. “The people that we looked so far didn’t meet the qualifications. That person just hasn’t appeared yet […] People look different on paper than they do in person,” Locher said. After the investigation, the group looks over the footage that has been collected and shares findings with the inhabitant of the home. “The television show ‘Ghost Hunters’ on the SciFi channel is very accurate, we are a team going on a mission to explain the unexplainable,” Brancato said. The GCOM centers their investigations on homes and businesses. All of the research and exploration that is done goes toward trying to classify parapsychology as a recognized science. As the movie “Poltergeist” insists, “some things have to be believed to be seen.” soap bubbles, and Santa is free to return to Earth with Billy and Betty. In my life, there is always room for “B” Flicks. In fact, the majority of the most entertaining movies I have ever seen were more than likely “B” movies, just sitting around waiting for someone to watch them. Come on people; go make those “B” movies happy! Give ‘em a good watching. You may be surprised how awesomely bad some of them are.
Making the transfer guides easier to follow is also something Nixon wants to accomplish. “It’s practically useless to go online and look at a transfer guide. Unless you’re talking to the counselor of that particular university, you’ll never really know what’s going to count and what’s not,” Leisha Blake, MCCC student, said.
from “Retire,” page 1 forward to receiving the Lifelong Learning books when they’re published. It’s going to be a challenge to replace her,” he said. Sherman has assisted in altering the emphasis that Lifelong Learning was providing. “The focus used to be on just continuing education, now it’s evolved to business and industry training and professional development classes,” Sherman said. Nixon credits Hamburg with many of the accomplishments at the Whitman Center. “Judith was the driving force at the center for south Monroe County. We’re going to miss her in more ways then one. In addition to being an administrator, she’s a model citizen. People living in Monroe County feel welcome at the Whitman Center,” he said. When Hamburg began her job at the south center, the location was just one wing of an elementary school in Temperance. The Whitman Center was built in 1991 and gave students and staff more room for future expansion. “The center has been doing great in providing students with more and more services and bigger programs of study, like criminal
What happens when Granholm receives the official list of recommendations? “She will suggest several issues and present initiatives on how to approach them, and also about funding. Most of her State of State message will come out of this report,” Cherry said. The State of State message will be made on February 8. justice or early childhood development. I’ve also had the privilege of watching two of my sons, soon to be three, graduate from MCCC. I’m will definitely miss the staff and students. This is such a wonderful place to work, it’s been just great,” Hamburg said. Sherman can also remember the times that when creating the Lifelong Learning packets, it was literally a cut and paste project. “When making the booklets, things had to just be cut apart and glued back together. Now we can just make the packets on the computer and use discs to print them off. It’s like going from horse and buggy to using cars,” she said. Hamburg and Sherman are both looking forward to a little relaxation after years at MCCC. “I plan on just being a bum. I have a couple of small vacation trips planned to places like Florida, Savannah, Georgia, Niagara, Ontario and Cape Cod. I’m going to be relaxing for awhile,” Hamburg said. “I want to read and relax but I’ll probably be looking for another career or finding volunteer work. I want to do something different and maybe not necessarily an education job,” Sherman said. “I want to see what I want to be when I grow up.”
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RVeader’s oice What was the worst Valentines gift you’ve ever given/ received?
Julie Billmaier
Gave “I’ve given my husband the same card for 26 years. He didn’t even notice until one of my kids told him!” Michael Marchese
Received “A half eaten box of chocolates.” Erin Sowards
Received “A mixed CD full of songs I hated.”
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Spotlight
February 8, 2005
On January 29, MCCC hosted Monroe County’s 18th Annual Black History Month Blues Series at Meyer Theater.
Steady Rollin’ Bob Margolin performs at the Jazz Fest.
WIllie “BIG EYES” Smith, Steady Rollin’ Bob Margolin and Hubert Sumlin perform at the Jazz Fest.
Members of the Monroe County All-Star Jazz group perform the opening act of the show.
WIllie “BIG EYES” Smith does a solo at the Jazz Fest.
Barbara Bomia(top) signs at the festival. Craig Rice(right) beats on his drum.