10-3-2002

MONROE COUNTY COMMUNITY COLLEGE pg 4

VOLUME 45

AGORA

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Est. 1968

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ISSUE 1

October 3, 2002

Whitman Center undergoes facelift

By Korinne Milks Page Editor The Whitman Center is a valuable resource for students of Monroe County Community College. Students who live in the Temperance area usually

Agora photos by Korinne Milks

Top: Whitman Center student Anastassia Armstrong gets a head start on some biology homework in the computer lab.

Below: The handicap entrance was one of many facilities remodeled.

Right: Whitman Center students gather in the foyer between classes.

EMU, Sienna Heights offer local classes

By Michelle Wisher Copy Editor Not many students are aware of the fact that both Sienna Heights University and, newly this fall, Eastern Michigan University offer classes and course programs that actually take place on the Monroe County Community College (MCCC) campus.

Sienna Heights University (Sienna) is located in Adrian, Michigan. Since approximately 1990, Sienna has been offering classes on campus at MCCC. Currently, Sienna offers a teacher education certification program major

benefit the most from this friendly extension, but many Monroe students who prefer a smaller, quieter campus can benefit as well.

During the summer, the Whitman center went through several useful upgrades, including new carpeting, furniture, and projector, as well as updated computer systems.

The handicap accessible entrance to the Whitman center has also been re-designed and

Feature Photo

wherein a student can obtain a bachelor’s degree (B.A.) in either elementary or secondary education. Through Sienna at MCCC, a student can also earn a bachelor ’s degree in accounting, business administration, general studies, or psychology, as well as a Bachelor of Applied Science degree (B.A.S.) in occupational or technical fields. There is possibility of the availability of a distance learning, or on-line, degree being offered through Sienna at MCCC in the future.

However, this is strictly a possibility and nothing concrete

see SIENNA page 7

improved. While these changes are beneficial to students who are thinking of visiting, there are many other regular services offered by the Whitman center.

The Whitman center offers advising during both day and evening hours. This is very helpful to students who need to discuss their college requirements but cannot or do not wish to travel to the main campus. It is best to make an appointment to speak with a counselor by contacting the Whitman office.

Another service of the Whitman center is the availability of assessment testing. The Whitman Center provides the ASSET test for students every Thursday at 1:00 and 5:00 PM. One other benefit for students who do not wish to travel to main campus is the ability to receive student identification cards at the Whitman Center. Until last year, students were required to drive up to main campus to get ID’s.

Now, students can get them at the Whitman center.

Underneath the Whitman Center’s services and benefits lies the atmosphere. Quiet scenery bordered by woods, a smaller crowd, and a smaller building all contribute to a less intimidating atmosphere.

Agora photo by Rachel Ziethlow

MCCC student Josh Luplow dives through a loop in the obstacle course at the barbecue sponsored by Student Government on Sept.

24.

Students just beginning will enjoy and appreciate this aspect of the Whitman Center. “I like it better here [the Whitman Center] than at main campus,” said one student. “People are more friendly and there’s more personal attention.”

The Whitman Center offers much of the same educational capabilities as main campus.

Students who attend main campus but live near Whitman are encouraged to stop by the computer lab just to do their homework. The lab is open Monday through Thursday, 9 a.m. to 9 p.m., and Friday, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. For more information, call the Whitman Center office at 734-847-0559.

Voter turnout low in county

By Jenna Koch Page Editor Currently 103,074 registered voters reside in Monroe County. According to the Michigan Department of State Bureau of Elections, on Aug. 6 when our county took part in the statewide primary election, only 25,062 voters turned out at the polls.

“Voter turnout right now is about 40 percent for presidential elections. It’s about 35 percent for congressional elections. If it continues to drop and it gets to be about ten percent many many years from now, who’s ruling the country?

Do you want a small portion of the public ruling us, or do you want to be part of the ruling class? Voting makes us part of the ruling class,” Dr. Joanna Briganti, Professor of Political Science, said.

The Nov. 5 State general election date is rapidly approaching. A citizen who wishes to practice his or her constitutional right of voting needs to be registered to vote by Oct. 7 in order to be eligible at the polls.

see VOTING page 7

Board of Trustees contributes to MCCC policies, procedures, daily student life

By Jenna Koch Page Editor On the fourth Monday of every month seven individuals meet to determine policies and procedures for Monroe County Community College (MCCC). The average MCCC

student may be unaware of who they are. The Monroe County Board of Trustees who meet once a month and decide the future of the college.

“In general, the board sets policy and the administration caries it out in the day to day scheme of things,” Lynne Gold-

smith, executive assistant to the president said. The general functions of the board of trustees, according to the Bylaws of the Board, include: appointing a “competent executive officer” or appointing the President of the College to execute the policies adapted by the board, and

appointing other members of the administration based on recommendations by the president. The board also approves all full time faculty hired at MCCC, and determines salaries of college personnel. The board drastically affects the daily lives of MCCC students.

Thomas R. Waldecker, Chairmen of the Board of Trustees said, “The board is ultimately responsible for approving tuition rates and whether funds should

see BOARD page 7

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EDITORIAL

2 Jeff Guthrie

MONROE COUNTY COMMUNITY COLLEGE

Students Choose...

Jenn Stelmach

Faculty of the month: Guthrie’s World

U.S.A. Vs. Iraq:

Round Two? I’m concerned.

I’m concerned for my safety and for yours, I’m concerned about our nation and I am concerned about the world.

I am concerned that my future has already been decided for me.

“USA vs. Iraq: Round II” I am concerned that due to the fact that a U.S./Britain invasion of Iraq seems unavoidable. In President Bush’s speech to the United Nations he made it very clear that if the United Nations does no not act on Iraq, the United States of America will take whatever action necessary to disarm and remove Sadamm Hussian from power.

As expected, Iraq has rejected the United Nations demand of unconditional weapon inspections; therefore the stage is being set for a deadline for the return of weapon inspectors to Iraq.

If Iraq does not meet this demand, military action will be almost unavoidable. “ The World According To Marge” I sat down with Margie Bacerrella, the director of the Sienna Heights program, and political science instructor, to discuss the showdown we are having with Iraq today and how it affects us as Americans and students.

It is first important to understand what is happening; Iraq has removed weapon inspectors, which were enforced to destroy all weapons of mass destruction. With no weapon inspectors, Iraq is free to do what it wants, which is a danger to the entire world.

When rules and laws are broken there must be consequences. According to Bacerrella, she believes as well as I do, that President Bush has decided to invade Iraq, but whether or not the United States does invade is based on many circumstances, most notably the unconditional return of weapon inspectors.

If the United States does invade Iraq, which I foresee, there are hundreds of scenarios that could happen. According to Baccarella a best case scenario would include the Iraqi armed forces disbanding and surrundering as many of them did in the Persian Gulf War. A worst case scenario would include the Iraqi forces fighting and Iraq attacking Israel with weapons of mass destruction, and Israel retaliates, after that it is anybody’s guess what would happen, but it wouldn’t be good.

see Iraq page 7

Jack Staas Chew on This

After 33 years as a psychology professor students still favor Staas.

B y Stacie Ourlian Reporter

When Jack Staas thinks of pretzels, he doesn’t have an image of dough in his mind.

Instead he recollects his memories of Freeport High School (FHS) in Freeport, Illinois. His high school mascot was a pretzel. It wasn’t in high school that Staas decided he wanted to go into psychology though. This was a decision that he disovered in college.

Staas earned varsity letters in football, basketball, and baseball at FHS. He was active in the business club, plays, prom committees, and letterman’s club.

While doing this, he was still able to work part-time at a supermarket.

After graduation, Staas attended Cerritos Junior College in Norwalk, California, where he earned his

agora photo by LaurelJohnston

Associate’s of Arts degree. He decided he wanted to go into business, but after taking a few psychology courses, he became interested in clinical psychology, which required a foreign language.

Staas had never taken a foreign language and didn’t want to start taking one in college.

He ended his four years by receiving a Bachelor’s degree in business-administration-marketing and management, and a minor in psychology at Northern Illinois University. After the undergraduate work was finished, he went to the University of Missouri and received a Master of Arts degree, majoring in clinical psychology. He later advanced his studies in psychology.

Staas is now in his 33rd year of teaching various psychology courses at MCCC. He presently teaches general psychology, child

psychology, psychology of nonverbal communications, and life span psychology. He also teaches child and adolescent psychology at Eastern Michigan University. “ I love teaching the students at MCCC, and I am very thankful for being here” said Staas.

The students and staff seem to have the same feeling toward the psychology instructor.

He has received the teacher of the year award three times at MCCC and has been nominated every year since 1988 for the outstanding faculty award. His awards include numerous “Who’s Who” listings and a special teacher’s award from Phi Theta Kappa at MCCC. “Jack makes things interesting and fun to learn about.

One time, he dressed up and claimed he was someone else while talking in third person.” Jamie Baumia said.

Our forgotten heroes: The hard hats B y Crystal Pierce Reporter

heroes was all around me. Their energy went into the erecting of barriers that surrounded Ground

In April of 2002, I visited the World Trade Center site in Manhattan along with several other Monroe County Community College students. It was there, overlooking Ground Zero, that I observed this statue memorializing “The Hard Hats of the World Trade Center.”

I realized as I observed the solemn faces of my classmates and gazed upon this statue, that some workers have been overlooked, or at least, underestimated by the media. It suddenly occurred to me that evidence of these “forgotten”

Eleven bronze statues commerate all those who build the foundations of this nation.

Zero; their muscles assembled the scaffolding under which we walked; their boots pressed pedals in cranes and trucks that carried away the rubble that had covered lower

Agora photo by Crystal Pierce

Manhattan just seven months before.

I’m referring to the construction workers, the “Hard Hats,” who worked around the clock after Sept. 11, 2001. I actually talked with two workers at Ground Zero, and as we parted, I said, “Thank you.” Now, looking back, I doubt those two words were sufficient.

Have we recognized or expressed our gratitude to the men and women who shoveled through debris and operated cranes and backhoes?

How can we fail to mention those who worked so hard to help clean up the horrific mess the terrorists created in New York?

see HATS page 7

When old glory fades, treat her properly B y Crystal Pierce Reporter Since Sept. 11, 2001, our nation has seemingly exploded with patriotism and love for our country. After the terrorist attacks, many people began to display the American flag, not only at their homes, but on their cars’ antennas. I was very impressed by the outburst of displays, but I was saddened when I witnessed what I consider to be disrespect to the flag.

Many citizens began to adorn their car antennas with O l d G l o r y, w h i c h c o u l d potentially lead to her demise.

An inexpensive cloth flag can easily become tattered and torn while whipping in the wind, and it could also rip loose from its display and end up in a sickening sight: on the ground.

It was heartbreaking for me to see my country’s flag tattered, torn, and suffering the blows of automobile tires as she lay on Telegraph Road.

I think it is important for all of us to remember what the American flag stands for.

Although I support citizens’ displays of patriotism, I believe a little information about flag etiquette can go a long way. Let us remember that there are rules and regulations regarding the treatment and handling of Old Glory, and give her the respect she deserves.

According to the Betsy Ross Homepage Resources: Flag Rules and Regulations, there are specific procedures for the times and manners of displaying the American flag.

In Sec.8.-Respect for flag, it states, “No disrespect should be shown to the flag of the United States of America.” Specifically, part e of section 8, pertains to the disrespect that I have observed: “The flag should never be fastened, displayed, used, or stored in such a manner as to permit it to be easily torn, soiled, or damaged in any way.”

For more information on the rules and regulations regarding American flag etiquette, log on to http:// w w w. u s h i s t o r y. o r g / b e t s y / flagetiq.html .

Dear Jenn, My friend is a good man, but in conversation he often uses profanity to make a point. This offends me, especially when he uses God’s name in vain. What is a good way to tell him to clean up his vocabulary?

- Sick of Swearin’ Dear S.O.S., I can see you are a person after my own heart; I also am offended by the use of profanity. I usually simply express my displeasure with their language.

I suggest telling your friend that it seriously bothers you when he uses profanity.

Ask him to not use it in front of you, and if he insists then perhaps you need to ask him to stop speaking to you, or at least to not relay stories that involve profanity.

Be polite but express your genuine displeasure with his language. A good friend would understand. And as he is your friend it is only appropriate he honor your moral convictions.

Explain to him your reasons and if he fails to comply, maybe you need to reconsider if he is truly a friend.

Dear Jenn, What is the easiest way to achieve success?

Seeking Success Dear Seeking, I’m afraid to tell you that there is no easy way to achieve success. Easy and success really do not even belong in the same sentence.

However, the best way to achieve success is through good old-fashioned hard work.

Short cuts and cheating may seem to get you ahead faster, but in the long run they catch up with you. Short cuts keep you from valuable learning experiences, and cheating is just plain wrong and the lazy man’s way of doing things.

see DEAR JEN page 7

MONROE COUNTY COMMUNITY COLLEGE

CAMPUS NEWS

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Feature Photo: A Blast From The Past

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Technology students bring home awards B y Joshua DeLisle Page Editor

agora photo by Mark Spenoso

A Work in Progress: The Campbell Learning Center which is now home to the campus library, little theatre, learning assistance lab, classrooms, and instructer offices, begins to take form in this photo dated August 1st 1967.

Guerriero explains confusion in schedule B y Bob Oliver Reporter

Many students are familiar with the “Fall 2002 Classes” booklet for Monroe County Community College.

Most used it for registration for classes he/she has to take for an academic goal.

A majority of MCCC students plan ahead when deciding on classes. First the time that classes can be taken is configured, and then a financial plan is devised. After that many students try to pick classes due to which instructor is teaching the course that semester.

Whether the student decides to pick an instructor based on bias or some other reason, some are confused by the word “Staff” on almost every page.

“Staff” is another word for an adjunct, or part-time, teacher. They teach in every division and instruct many classes. But do they teach more then full-time faculty? Numbers indicate that they do not. Bill Guerriero, V.P. of Instruction, said that the numbers from the 2001 fall semester reported that fulltime faculty taught a greater percentage of classes than adjunct.

The percentages in each division (which include Business, Industrial Tech., Science/ Math, Humanities, Social Science, and Health Science) were relatively close, with the higher numbers being taught by full-time teachers. The biggest differential was in Industrial Technology, which had

83% of its classes taught by the full-timers. The division with the highest percentage of classes taught by adjunct instructors was in Social Sciences, which was taught evenly 50/50.

Guerriero also said that “the late retirement of two full-time

F : ast acts

faculty members over the summer forced the college to bring in more adjunct help, but this should not greatly affect this semester’s numbers from last year’s [2001].”

The part-time, or adjunct, or “Staff” instructors are used according to what’s needed to be

taught and who is available and qualified to teach it. Full-time faculty is still going to be teaching a majority of the classes here at MCCC. So whether one chooses classes by teacher name or not, it will always be a well- qualified instructor teaching the course.

According to Paul Schmidt, Registrar the college enrollment is up compared to last year.

2002 2001 3,587 Headcount 3,758 +4.7% Credit Hours 32,163 +9.7% 29,303

This summer students from some of the Monroe County Community College(MCCC) Technological programs were involved in various competitions. Some of the competitions were close to home and some were national.

The students received awards for their hard work.

The awards received include: ! The MCCC Design Team from the METC finished first in a n a t i o n w i d e competition to design a - “ f u t u r e communication device” sponsored

by CAD software maker and PC manufacturer Motorola. ! MCCC was the only community college to participate in the national SAE Formula Car competition. The competition included 125 colleges. ! A team from the Tech department of MCCC led by professor Bob Leonard received a silver medal at the SME Robotics competition in Rochester, NY.

Cafeteria to Campus Cafe B y Crystal Pierce Reporter

During the summer of 2002, Monroe County Community College’s (MCCC) kitchen has undergone complete renovation. Outdated 1960’s equipment has been replaced with modern equipment to facilitate the cafeteria staff and culinary arts students who are preparing for jobs in the field.

According to Timothy Bennett, Vice President of Business Affairs, construction crews started working in May. The $1 million project was completed during the second week of August. About half of the cost paid for equipment; the other half paid for the construction.

Students and staff may still order from the grill, but

Agora photo by Amelia Church

Agora photo by Crystal Pierce

Looking old and outdated this photograph shows the 1960’s equipment ready for a change.

Standing tall and proud Jan Climen shows off the new cafe.

Campus Café’s New Features: Frozen Coke and cappuccino machines, Deli Bar, Self- serve hot dogs, nachos, hot pretzels, ice cream bars; Pizza by the slice and calzones, sandwich wraps, other specialty sandwiches and salads.

features have been added to meet the needs of a variety of appetites.

According to Chef Ollie Ralston, the staff has attempted to bring in more choices to accommodate our diverse campus. “We are trying to incorporate as many diverse menus as we can,” Ralston said.

The kitchen staff has also introduced coupons and promotions. New programs include a specialty or combo sandwich and entrée club. These offer bonuses to regular customers of the “Campus Café”, who get one free after the purchase of eight sandwiches or entrees.

A separate fryer has been added for the vegetarian population. This allows for peace of mind in eating fried foods.

They can now be certain that no meat products have come in contact with their foods.

Despite the added features, the prices for meals or individual items have not risen.

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FEATURE

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United Nations:

MONROE COUNTY COMMUNITY COLLEGE

Up clos e

By Crystal Pierce Copy Editor

and per sonal

This knotted gun sculpture was a gift to the U.N. from Luxembourg in 1988.

In April 2002, students from Monroe County Community College (MCCC)’s International Relations course traveled to New York City to visit the United Nations Headquarters. The MCCC Foundation provided funds for the trip, and the students held a fundraiser to help ease individual costs.

According to Dr. Joanna Briganti, Professor of Political Science, this trip allowed for students “to have an out-of-theclassroom experience and to

learn about the United Nations in a more dynamic setting.”

Students had the opportunity to tour the United Nations Headquarters, ask questions of a knowledgeable tour guide, and meet with both a delegate from the European Union and a representative of the United Nations who was an expert on international terrorism.

“I think the students had a chance to process their thoughts about international relations rather than simply memorizing,” Briganti said.

The Statue of Liberty stands proud.

Study savvy students

By Bob Oliver Photogrophy Editor The library can be the most valuable aide in a student’s education At Monroe County Community College it has become a welcome area for everyone, whether he or she wishes to study or just to find a quiet area to relax and read between classes or before work. It is an area where instructors come to borrow videotapes for classes or take their students to teach them about research papers.

The library is also an area that has been affected in a positive way by the renovations of the last few years. Dave Reiman, the Director of Learning Resources, stated that there has been a “great increase in the number of students using the library since it was remodeled.”

The remodeling took place over the summer of 2000 and involved many changes. A new section devoted to Internet accessible computers was added,

and the Quiet Study area was redesigned. The new look of the library impressed many students.

Jeromy Hutton, a MCCC student, stated, “The library was really improved by the renovations. It makes it much easier to get information for classes with the new computers.”

The chart provided shows the number of individuals entering the library through the front entrance. It tells that in the fall semesters between 1999 and 2001 there has been an increase of over 12,000 students in the library. So as the college continues to go through a makeover the number of students choosing to study has increased, and Reiman has already began noticing more students using the library’s resources this semester.

Statistics show that the busiest times to use the library are between 10 a.m. and 1 p.m., so it may be more difficult to get information as quickly during those times, but remember that the library is here for assistance with whatever academic questions the semester may bring.

29534

27090

28615

24833 1730

17424

1999-2000 2000-2001

Fall

2001-2002

1999-2000

2000-2001 2001-2002

Winter Information collected by Bob Oliver

A European Union representative meets with the group from MCCC.

ios Stud man Batt f o esy ourt tos c pho a r Ago

The students experienced academic as well as personal growth, and the trip provided a chance for students to gain new perspectives.

Agora Photos by Crystal Pierce

Members of the International Relations class pose for a picture at Rockerfeller Center.

Marcia Halason, MCCC student, expressed her gratitude about the trip.

“In class we talked about the U.N. But while I visited the Headquarters, I was amazed and overwhelmed at how many countries were united in working toward world peace,” Halason said.

stcard Factory rtesy of The Po Agora photo cou

For information regarding the 2003 International Relations trip contact Dr. Joanna Briganti at (734) 384-4297.

West Nile Virus preventable

By Bethany Slovik Copy Editor

The West Nile Virus could interrupt autumn functions.

A campus conducted survey showed that most students know little of the West Nile Virus other than it exists, and they are not concerned about it until they see a mosquito.

Although it seems that the students here are more worried about an itchy bug bite than an uncommon virus, the times one might encounter a mosquito bite are at prime fall activities, such as sports’ games, family gatherings, parties with friends, and also campus events.

The virus could be circulating through every day activities. The West Nile Virus is a serious, yet uncommon danger.

Evacuating a mosquito-populated area is not necessary.

According to a reporter from MacLean’s, Danylo Hawaleshka, “More ink than blood

Agora photo by Rachel Ziethlow

has been spilled over this moreoften-than-not benign infectious agent. For all the fuss, it’s still extremely rare, tends to produce fairly mild, flu-like symptoms, and [is] potentially fatal.”

Despite the possible effects of the virus, there are some preventative measures one can take, especially to avoid those annoying bug bites. For example, one could purchase, allergyfriendly insect repellent for under $4 at a variety of stores for when attending sports’ games and parties. For family gatherings, mosquito sticks, which can simply

be placed in the ground and repel insects for a fifteen feet radius, can also be purchased for under $4.

Sometimes students get tied down to academic obligations and have little or no time to be concerned with much of anything besides homework and studying.

Other times students allow everything to overwhelm their lives.

The West Nile Virus is nothing to overlook. Being cautious does not mean paranoid and with these helpful tips anyone can enjoy this season to its fullest potential, involving friends, family, hobbies, and the outdoors.

FEATURE

MONROE COUNTY COMMUNITY COLLEGE

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Student housing, apartments a good option

By Korinne Milks & Jen Stelmach Reporters

who feel a need to venture out alone are not without options.

There are some basic things to consider when a student is researching a move, and some steps that are necessary.

During a quick survey of a few Monroe apartment complexes, the following steps were determined to help MCCC students get a good start in finding a home.

Foxton, Garden Court, Custer Estates, and Hampton are four apartment complexes located in Monroe.

Every complex, in Monroe or elsewhere, requires a credit or background check before

renting. Almost every complex also requires a security deposit before moving in. This deposit may be refunded after moving out, assuming no damage has been done to the apartment.

Renting prices ranged from Many young students wish $400.00 for a studio apartment to move out of home and be at Hampton to $690.00 for a two “on their own” when they begin bedroom deluxe at Custer college; at most community Estates. colleges this is not an easy Besides the base rent and a option. few other start-up fees, there are Dormitories are not readily other costs to consider. Custer available, and the price of an Estates included all utilities in apartment may seem a looming their rent; however, Foxton did barrier to living independently. not. This means that one living While living at home is an at Foxton will have to pay at ideal situation for a student who least an electric and water bill needs to save money, those separately. Compare monthly rent prices though – in any cases the electric and water bill do not justify the extra cost for pre-paid utilities.

Cable and telephone bills are also sole responsibility of the occupant in any complex.

Some apartments have washer and dryer hook-ups, but the resident must supply Agora photo by Korinne Milks his or her own washer and Garden Courts is located on Steward Rd. between Telegraph and Monroe. dryer. Most of the smaller

Unconventional students encounter more challenges at MCCC

By Michelle Wisher Reporter The idea of the average college student has changed in many ways in recent years. At one point speaking of the average student brought notions of a person rather wet behind the ears; someone immediately out of high school. This person is the conventional student. In many instances that is still the case; however, the unconventional student is becoming increasingly prominent on the college campus.

Out of the 3,649 students who enrolled at Monroe County Community College (MCCC) in fall of 2001, the average student was approximately 26 years of age and attended school parttime, according to the MCCC Student Profile Study for that year.

More and more people in their mid to late twenties and much older are deciding to return to school. Sometimes it is for a career change and sometimes it is to finally begin and obtain that degree that may have been put off at one point in time.

This is the definition of the unconventional student; the student that makes up much of the population at MCCC as well as on many campuses.

Sherry Hunt is a student at MCCC. Hunt is 28 years of age and, aside from working full time and attending part-time night classes on campus, she is also a single mother. Hunt is the perfect example of the newly emerging

unconventional student.

Having graduated from high school in 1993, Hunt began taking classes immediately towards a degree in accounting. After about two years she decided that she had to take some time off.

“It was very difficult to find a babysitter both during the day while I was at work and at night while I was in class”, said Hunt.

Eventually, with the support of her

may involve such details as where ones friends are going, how much of a scholarship he or she has received, or possibly how much money his or her parents are willing to contribute.

The decision to go to college later in life is a more complex one.

It requires the juggling of schoolwork in additon to the responsibilities of home and work.

“Going to college later in life is

Agora photo by Michelle Wisher

Noel Kinsella, 33 & Donna Render, 42, enjoy a class break. family, she was able to return to school. Hunt has changed her major and now is well on her way to obtaining a degree in Elementary Education.

Deciding to return to school after a period of time off can be a very intimidating task to undergo.

The longer one waits to return to school, the greater the anxiety that accompanies making that decision to once again take the plunge into academia, according to the consensus of several MCCC students interviewed on the subject.

The decision to go to college for a student just out of high school

tough in some ways with family and a job coming into the picture; however, we think the older student is more focused.”, said Noel Kinsella, one unconvential student.

When asked how her experience has been while attending classes thus far, Hunt stated, “Sometimes it’s hard because school cuts into the time I have to spend with my daughter, but, I know it will all pay off in the end when I’m doing something that I really want to do. It’s hectic, but, I make it work”.

Such is the life of the unconventional student.

Location Matters When looking for an apartment, a student must concern him or herself with location. First, the apartment should be reasonably close to school and work. An apartment just outside of town may be a great deal, but issues such as daily gas mileage must be considered.

Safety is another factor that should be cause for scrutiny.

Complex managers cannot tell you whether the area you are thinking of renting in is “safe” or not. They cannot tell you “what ‘kind’ of people live here” either. A fair housing law prevents them from releasing this type of information. It is extremely important that one be observant. Ask questions such as “Will I feel safe coming home alone at 2:00 in the morning?”, “Is there proper lighting for any walkways, parking lots, or hallways?”

These questions and others are very important. Sherry Fitzwater, apartment manager of Garden Courts, suggests that one concerned with these issues should call the Sheriff’s department to inquire about the area’s safety. apartments do not have hookups. Expect to pay to wash and dry your laundry at the complex or the Laundromat.

If these items seem intimidating, it may be because they are. If one does not feel confident enough to pay for an apartment alone, consider the common and useful option of finding a reliable roommate to share costs.

Also, request to see an open apartment if one is available.

The floor plans look bigger on paper than the actual apartments are. Visit several locations and be sure to inquire about the lease cancellation fees, security deposit, monthly rent, floor plans, pet policies, policy for repairing apartment problems (such as a leaky faucet), and the like. Most office managers will be willing to sit down and answer any and all questions one may have. Take advantage of this.

MCCC courses equal university quality

By Stacie Ourlian Reporter The test scores are in, and Monroe County Community College (MCCC) has passed the test. When comparing English 151, a general English class, to its equivalent class English 120 at Eastern Michigan University (EMU), results show that both classes cover the same material; however, a few aspects of the two classrooms vary.

These aspects include attendance policies, teaching techniques, and some assignments.

Prices are also very different between the two courses. Taking English at MCCC can save a student anywhere from $255.70-$1189 (depending upon location) for the same education he or she would receive at EMU. Jo Ellen Locher, a professor at MCCC, and Erin Anderson, professor at EMU, both teaches English Composition 1.

Both instructors focus on developing the student’s ideas, writing style, grammar, and thesis statements. They allow students to turn in rough drafts of their paper, which are edited by classmates before turning in the final graded papers.

Group work, over-head material, and music also play roles in teaching techniques. The students at EMU listen to the lyrics of a song, while students in Locher ’s

classroom learn how the music they choose to listen to reflects their culture and who they are.

Although some believe there are many more students in an EMU classroom, this is not necessarily true. Anderson has 25 students in her class. Attendance is not part of the overall grade, but after six absences the student will fail the course. In Anderson’s class, there are four papers due that should be about four to six pages in length.

No extra credit is available.

Locher’s classroom differs slightly in these areas. Six papers are expected to be written throughout the semester, ranging from approximately four to six pages. She also pushes the class to focus on vocabulary. The students receive one spelling test at mid-term. The class also spends time using the library, watching movies, and writing journals.

Students are given extra credit opportunities.

“Attendance is not part of the overall grade, but the students who do the best in the class are there everyday. I can get my book out to prove it. A student cannot get an hour and a half out of me by coming to my office and asking what we did in class,” Locher said.

Different policies in the classroom are not the only things that differ between MCCC and EMU.

see EQUAL page 7

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ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

MONROE COUNTY COMMUNITY COLLEGE

The Osbournes exploit their family values B y Joshua DeLisle Page Editor Ozzy Osbourne has long been the George Jefferson of rock music and this latest release from Sony Records is no exception. Both Ozzy and George are always vehemently against “the man” unless of course that man has a check for them.

A t t h a t p o i n t i t ’s “ H e y Weezie fix him up a plate,” or in Ozzy’s words, “Hey Sharon where’s the (bleep)ing fridge?”

Many years after Ozzy first set up Black Sabbath in hopes of tearing down culture, the Osbournes have become a permanent fixture in modern culture. The TV show that shows you the “real life” of this paradoxical family has now garnished a soundtrack, The Osbourne Family Album.

This soundtrack offers the listener many tired old songs being repackaged for the umpteenth time, including: the Kinks’ “You Really Got Me Now,” Eric Clapton’s “Wonderful Tonight,” and

e v e n Ozzy’s o w n “ M a m a I ’ m Coming Home.”

The hook to this album is that the songs are intertwined w i t h uncensored dialogue from the “real lives” of America’s new favorite family. One such clip has Ozzy explaining

The life and times of Ozzy Osbourne B y Mike McHone Guest Writer 1948-Jonathan “Ozzy” Osbourne is born, God weeps, doves cringe. 1969-Black

Sabbath records their first album in under twelve hours. After one listen, Ozzy’s father asks him, “Son are you sure you’re not on drugs?” 1986-Ozzy meets future wife/manager/co-star Sharon. He also bites the head off a dove.

1986-Sharon admits Ozzy into the Betty Ford clinic. Ozzy asks an attendant, “Where’s the bar?”

1994-Ozzy retires from the music industry. 1995-Ozzy launches the “Retirment Sucks” tour. 2002-The Osbournes debuts on MTV.

News from Around the Watercooler B y Joshua DeLisle Page Editor Sarah McLachlan has recorded a cover of Kermet the Frog’s “Rainbow Connection,” to be released on a VH1 compilation disc.

The disc will raise money for the “Save the Music” fund.

Former hair metal god Sebastian Bach will be trying his hand at playing the Son of God in

the upcoming national tour of Jesus Christ Superstar.

According to Entertainment Weekly, Sony Pictures is said to be finalizing a deal that will have them releasing two more Spiderman movies in the next couple of years.

Both Tobey Maguire and Kirsten Dunst have agreed to stay on with the film.

Phish is probably most known for serving as a quick fix to Grateful Dead fans, which can no longer

experience the “long strange trip.”

They are now expanding their horizons by releasing volumes 13 through 16 of their live concert footage collection in late October. It must have been one long concert.

Star Wars: Attack of the Clones is being reformatted for a Imax theatres rerelease date of November 1, 2002.

RRCA lights up the stage once again B y Rachel Ziethlow Editor Music and entertainment from the River Raisin Centre for the Arts (RRCA) awakens downtown Monroe each year around early October through the end of May. The talent season opens on Oct. 3 this year with the Ballet Stars of Moscow. Featured entertainers later this year include a dance and music extravaganza called In the Mood on Oct. 25, Chenille Sisters Christmas on Dec. 20, and the passionate musical Copacabana on Feb. 28.

The RRCA not only features a full season of entertainment, but it also offers creative dramatics classes for children from first grade through 12th.

The RRCA provides two three-week sessions of Summer Theatre Arts Camp for youths.

Each summer, the RRCA sponsors a summer youth theatre, where the youth of the county audition and create various theatrical productions.

Last summer, over 140 young

people auditioned and over 80 were cast in two shows, Roger and Hammerstein’s Cinderella and Oliver, according to Public Relations Director Calley M. Duffey.

Monroe County Community College (MCCC) freshmen, Kellie Billmaier and Annie Gorowski, both have attended plays, like Cinderella and Bye, Bye, Birdie, at the RRCA and agree that it was an enjoyable experience.

MCCC student Jon Hunley has volunteered to play drums in the past and is looking forward to offering his talents again in the musical Annie. Although he enjoys being in the shows, Hunley also values being part of the audience. One of his favorite shows to watch is men’s quartets.

The RRCA was previously a movie theater built in 1938.

Fifty years later in 1988, a group of community leaders founded the RRCA as a non-profit organization in order to create an arts center, according to Duffey.

A local theatre group, the Monroe Community Players, began a massive restoration

project in 1975, which is still in progress today, according to Duffey.

Full-time paid staff at the R R C A i n c l u d e s D u ff e y, Director of Dance Kellie Lajiness and dance teacher Holly Hobbs, and Executive Director Jim Kreutzberg.

Other than these, volunteers of the community mostly run the theatre.

Doug McComas, formerly a customer service agent at an airline, has enjoyed dedicating his time in the box office for the past two seasons and looks forward to the upcoming season. McComas is only one of the many volunteers at the RRCA. According to Duffey, volunteers are always needed to help in the box office, technical things such as lights, or to usher on show nights.

To contact the RRCA to volunteer or for tickets, call 242-7722, or log on to www.riverraisincentre.org.

h i s uncensored distaste for some bubbles Sharon chose as a prop for the show.

The album also lays t h e groundwork for the up and coming singing career of young Kelly Osbourne. Her cover of the trite Madonna

hit “Papa Don’t Preach” (as seen on MTV) is featured toward the end of the album.

Amongst the nonsensical dribble the album offers, there is a moment of clarity.

Pat Boone’s cover of Ozzy’s h i t “ C r a z y Tr a i n , ” i s t h e funniest rendition of a song purposely put on record since William Shatner did “Lucy in the Sky with Diamonds.”

The album is a five star masterpiece for average fans that buy into the Osbournes’ TV show, for all others it is a one star flop.

MCCC Band ready for concert schedule B y Jeff Guthrie Page Editor From Mozart to modern day music, the Monroe County Community College (MCCC) and Community Symphony Band is sure to provide a fantastic musical experience at any of their concerts.

The MCCC/Community Symphony Band is instructed and directed by Mark Felder, who has been the instructor for a total of 11 years. Felder instructed the band for seven straight years, upon which a gentleman by the name of Paul Standferd instructed the band for a number of years, and then Felder became the instructor again and is currently on his 11th year as instructor There are a total of 85 members in the symphony band, ranging in age from 17 to 92 years of age.

Glenn Crosby is 92 years of age and according to Felder, drives up from Toledo, Ohio for every practice and concert to play with the MCCC/ CommunitySymphonyBand.Crosby also wears the same Tuxedo that he bought in 1927, which is 75 years old.

The MCCC/Community Symphony Band has five scheduled concerts this school year. The highlight concert of the year will be the “Michigan School Band & Orchestra Association.” The MCCC/Community Symphony band will host the event, which features the band cite read all new music that is required for all the bands in the state of Michigan. Admission is free, and the concert will be held Nov 18, 7:00 p.m. at Monroe High School.

Other scheduled concert dates are Oct. 21, Dec. 16, Feb. 24, and Apr. 28. All concerts are at 7:30 and held at Monroe High School.

Felder cited that the MCCC/ Community Symphony Band is expected to grow stronger stating, “Our goal is that our band program gets one notch stronger every year, and we hope that reality follows that goal.”

For more information on concerts or becoming a member of the MCCC/ Community Symphony Band call, Mark Felder at 2895555.

Alumni golf for scholarships B y Joshua DeLisle Page Editor On September 6, 2002 the Monroe County Community College (MCCC) Alumni sponsored a best ball golf tournament at the Carrington Golf Club in Monroe.

Participants in the tournament ranged from local judges to professors and students at MCCC. The funds raised at the event are going to Alumni sponsored scholarships for MCCC students. Last year the Alumni awarded five scholarships totaling $2500.

The first place team, with a score of –13, was Broadway Market. The team members were MCCC College Trustee Joe Bellino, Paula Nels, Kathy Netter, and Paula Vitale.

The tournament offered various awards to participants. Both door prizes and contest prizes were given.

Those who won the awards include: “Closest to the Pin” Female- Lori Lay Male- Terry Zibbell “Long Drive” Female- Paula Vitale Male- Joe Bellino

IN THE MIX

MONROE COUNTY COMMUNITY COLLEGE

from Board page 1 be expended for major building projects. So keeping tuition affordable and in balance with other funding sources affects students, residents and others within the community. The board, if needed would approve whether mileage campaigns are needed, for additional support. In addition, the board approves all policies that apply to the Campus.”

On Nov 6, the term for four of the seven members will expire, and these seats will be filled by general election. The public elects the members of the board for a six-year term. It is important

from Voting page 1 Registering to vote can be done in person at the county clerk’s office located in the courthouse in downtown Monroe. Voters may also register to vote by mail, or by visiting any Secretary of State branch office.

For people who are already registered or want more information about voting and registration, there is a new website which offers a great deal of information. The Michigan Secretary of State Publius Voter Information center was unveiled on Sept. 5.

“The Voter information center…[provides] voters immediate access to the information they need, including their voter registration status and location of their polling places,” Michigan Secretary of State Candice S. Miller said.

The website is located at http://www.michigan.gov/sos. By entering a name and county, voters have access to their voting location, dates of upcoming elections, a map to their voting location if needed, instructions on how to vote, and a sample of the ballot.

The ballot is personalized for the voter using the website and offers links to information websites for the candidates, as well as information on proposals that will be on the ballot.

People who are looking for information on registering can also find what they are looking for on the voter information website.

The website allows the user to find out whether he or she is registered to vote and also gives detailed information on where to register.

Briganti said, “It’s not just this idea that we have ten percent of the people ruling, but that if less and less people are paying attention to what’s happening and they have an apathetic attitude about their government, anything can happen.

We are not immune to a dictatorship; we are not immune to a takeover. If people continuously say ‘I am not going to pay attention to government, it doesn’t matter who gets in,’ then they may be surprised someday at who does.”

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from Sienna page 1 for voters to be knowledgeable when voting for the new members of the board.

“This college has a huge impact on the community. It is training the communities future workers and the knowledge and skills those workers have is decided by the administration that answers to the board of trustees, so we want good decision makers in those p o s i t i o n s , ” D r. J o a n n a Briganti said.

The board meets on the fourth Monday of every month, these meeting begin

at 7:30p.m. and are open to the public.

The current members of the board are: Thomas R. Wa l d e c k e r : Chairman, M i c h a e l R . M e y e r : Vi c e Chairman, Mary Kay Thayer: S e c r e t a r y , William J. Bacarella, Joseph Bellino Jr., William Huntley, and Marjorie A. Kreps. The terms of Waldecker, Thayer, Bellino, and Huntley expire in 2002. They are all seeking reelection. Ronald W. Evans, Sally Tarrant, Marji McIntyre, and William H. Braunlich are also seeking election to the board of trustees.

The Agora Needs

Local Musicians and

Artists to feature in the newspaper If you are interested, contact the Agora at 3844186 or drop by the office in room L-202.

at this point, according to Margie Bacarella, head of the Sienna Heights program at MCCC. To earn a degree through Sienna at MCCC, a student must complete one hundred twenty credit hours; however, Sienna will transfer up to ninety credit hours from MCCC. Only thirty actual credit hours must be completed in Sienna classes.

Classes cost $225.00 per credit hour at Sienna.

“Keep in mind, only ten classes, or, thirty credit hours, are actually at that price since Sienna transfers ninety credit hours from MCCC,” Bacarella said.

For more information regarding Sienna Heights, contact Margie Bacarella at 384-4133. Her office is located in the Life Science Building, room L-221.

Eastern Michigan University (EMU) is located in Ypsilanti, Michigan. Classes through EMU in Monroe actually began in 1996 when they were held at St. Mary’s Center.

“Classes are being offered at both Monroe

County Community College and the Monroe Intermediate School District,” according to Valorie Juergens, Regional Manager, EMU-Monroe Center.

The degree programs currently offered at MCCC through EMU are Master of Arts in Educational Leadership, and Master of Arts in Reading. A student can also take part in the Bachelor of Science in nursing (RN to BSN) completion program that is currently being offered. At this point in time, these are the only degree programs that are offered in Monroe through EMU; however, it is hopeful that more course selection will become available in the future.

“We are excited about working with both MCCC and the Monroe ISD and are looking forward to the opportunity to grow both programs and enrollment in the future,” Juergens said.

EMU at Monroe is currently in the process of moving offices from St. Mary’s Center and will soon have office hours at both the Monroe Intermediate School District and MCCC. For further information, contact Valorie Juergens at 242-5799, Ext. 1873.

from Iraq page 2

agora photo by Crystal Pierce

from Dear Jen page 1 Make goals and take them seriously. Make reasonable short-term goals, these are easier to achieve and you will feel accomplished. Observe those who have gone before you; truly learn from other people’s mistakes.

Some mistakes you will need to make yourself, but it will save you time and heartache if you can avoid some by watching other people.

It is going to take time, effort, and hard work to get to the top, but when you get there you can look down and tell everyone how good it feels!

from Hats page 2 I cannot fault the media for focusing their coverage as they have. I am quite aware of and grateful for the men and women of the Police and Fire Departments and the rescue workers who gave their all and played an immense role in the rescue and clean-up efforts

from Equal page 5 Each credit hour at EMU cost $426.00 for a student who lives in Michigan but does not live on campus. English is a three credit class. One must also add $40 for a registration fee and an extra $20 per credit hour for ________. The total for a non-resident (one who lives in the state but not local) is $1378. The total for a student at EMU who lives on campus is $444.70. To attend English 151 at MCCC, one must pay a $24 registration fee. Three credit hours involving Ground Zero. I feel eternally thankful for their efforts, and I also mourn those who lost their lives in their efforts to save others.

I simply want to acknowledge the almost 3000 union construction workers who operated cranes, excavators, and trucks that hauled out the debris from such a devastating site.

In the midst of the chaos and destruction

add up to $165. The total for English 151 is $189 for the same education one would receive at EMU. Although there appear to be a few assignments that differ within each classroom, the basic material covered is the same in both locations. EMU and MCCC are equivalent in many areas. Anderson claims, “Many, many students from community could be in my classroom and do fine, while many of my students could go to community and do just as well.” at the World Trade Center site, it was estimated that recovery and cleanup efforts would cost nearly $1.5 billion. Now, just over one year later, the reality is that the cost is only half of that initial estimate-about $750 million.

The fact that the operation persisted around the clock, with construction workers on duty 24

“It will affect you” When a nation goes to war it affects everyone. It will affect you emotionally, ideologically, and heaven-forbid physically. If you are in the armed forces, you will be most likely put in harms way. If you’re not in the armed forces and you are between the ages of 18-25: pay attention.

Bacerrella stated that she does not foresee any military draft in the near future, but reminds students there is always that possibility.

My advice to all students here at the college is simply this: Watch the evening news and read the newspaper, it is important to know what is happening. If our nation invades Iraq, with or without the approval of the United Nations, it is going to affect our society, and raise the possibility of a draft, which if conscribed will change our society.

In short; be prepared for the worst, pray for peace but be prepared.

F : ast acts

A ceremony for the unvailing of “The Little Brown Bear” statue will be held October 6, at 3pm. The ceremony will be at the Rosch library in Monroe. All are welcomed to attend. hours a day, resulted in the incredible savings regarding the cost of the effort. I cannot help but think that the “Hard Hats” played a significant role in the efforts to push Manhattan towards something near normal. Please, let us not forget the union construction workers, who along with others, put their hours and their hearts into the recovery and clean-up at Ground Zero.

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Spotlight

l La aPIGloooza

September 28, 2002

Community Pig Roast and Music Festival

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I liked the jumpy thing because there were all these little kids and I got to help them get up.

Melinda Dewald, 11

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MONROE COUNTY COMMUNITY COLLEGE

My favorite thing was the pig that was walking around because he gave me a hug.

Anthony Hamlet, 6

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I liked hanging out with all of my friends because they make me laugh a lot.

Meg Bellino, 11

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I liked the velcro thing because it was something out of the ordinary.

Ally Notario, 11

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My favorite thing was the pig because we got his tail.

Christian Hamlet, 5

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My favorite thing was the velcro because you get stuck.

Coby Kegerris, 9

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