11-1-2004

AGORA

WEJY given second chance VOLUME 47 ISSUE 2

Jackie Pacheco

Assistant Editor onroe County Com munity College stu dents enrolled in the radio class will now have the opportunity to broadcast over 97.5 FM WEJY, Monroe High School’s unused radio station.

MHS lost their only qualified teacher when the former

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MONROE COUNTY COMMUNITY COLLEGE

radio class instructor moved to Florida, according to interim principal at MHS Randy Monday. Since the school was already making budget cuts, the position was never filled.

“When Monroe High School started hitting hard financial times, we were forced to make reductions in the staff. We didn’t have the money to fill the

former radio teacher’s spot,” Monday said.

However, MCCC radio instructor Milward Beaudry had a solution that would help both schools. He initiated a deal between the schools that allowed MCCC radio class students to use the equipment at MHS. Under this agreement, the students are able to travel

to MHS and work with the school’s radio supplies.

They also have the opportunity to broadcast the high school’s football games. Already, the last two home games for MHS have been covered. In the future, Beaudry hopes that the college students will be able to have their own hour-long blocks of radio time.

November 1, 2004

“Basically, the equipment was not being utilized and nobody wanted the broadcasts to be eliminated. Monroe High School didn’t offer the course and nobody wanted to get rid of the radio station. This solution seems to work out for everybody,” Beaudry said.

see “WEJY,” page 7

Vending A new beginning... costs rise Jenny Creekmore Page Editor ending and pop machine prices have risen since last semester. Candy and snacks have gone up a nickel, and pop and beverages have raised 15 cents.

Canteen, the company in charge of the vending and pop machines, provides a service that includes catering and food here at Monroe County Community College (MCCC). It also includes the service for Pepsi and CocaCola products.

“The price increases of these products are due to a rise in gas prices, products costs, and wages and benefits have gone up,” Jean Ford, director of purchasing and auxiliary services, said.

Vendors determine the prices.

MCCC can request a change and the vendor can honor it, but it isn’t always changed.

“We’ve wanted to go with just Coca-Cola products at the college but we haven’t had time to research it. We may be looking into it later,” Ford said.

The changes in the cafeteria are a result of management change.

“I haven’t noticed a change in the prices, but I have heard people saying it has increased.

If I’m thirsty I’m going to drink it no matter what,” Mystel Smith, MCCC student, said.

“It is ridiculous to pay $1.25 for water and 85 cents for chips,” Laura Eckhardt, MCCC student, said.

V

Inside:

Agora photo by Danny Carmack

Kurt Darrow, President CEO of La-Z-Boy; Mary Kate Thayer, board member; Patrick Norton, Chair of Board at La-ZBoy; and Micheal Meyer, Foundation Chair board member cut the ribbon in front of the new La-Z-Boy center on its grand opening day.

Record enrollment hits MCCC Susan Rhodes

Page Editor ower tuition fees, the growth of Monroe County, and continuing education have increased Monroe County Community College’s (MCCC) student population to record breaking proportions.

4,177 students are enrolled at MCCC for this fall semester,

L

Opinion 2

Crowning g l o r y : Kelly Smock, Miss Monroe 2004, works to promote pro-life.

(4)

which isthe most since 1993 when the headcount was

“ ”

We’re a good, stong community college. We have a good reputation.

Paul Schmidt, registrar

tuition...and their fees considerably,” 4,057.

The reasonable tuition fees Paul Schmidt, registrar, said. are an incentive to begin a Compared to University of higher education at MCCC. Michigan’s tuition at $7,932 for

Campus News 3 See what’s cookin’ at Cuisine 1300.

(3)

“A number of the four year schools have increased their

Feature 4 & 5

A match made in cyberspace

Discover the ins and outs of online dating: where to go, how much to cough up, how they work and if they really do.(5)

Face-off

Two writers go head-to-head, debating the two most talked-about men in America: John Kerry and George Bush. (2)

an academic year (24 credit hours), MCCC tuition for a resident of the county is $1442 for the 2004 – 2005 school year.

“We are fully credited; our credits transfer to other schools; if you want to transfer after a couple years here [MCCC] then your credits

see “Record,” page 7

A&E 6 Are credit cards really worth the price? (4)

2

Agora

Debate:

Opinion

November 1, 2004

Presidential election provokes Agora staff

Kerry has better plans for America Let Bush finish the job he started Veronica Terry Page Editor

What if the government told each of the 294 million people in America that they must pay $25,000 immediately? That’s how much an American would have to pay to eliminate our national deficit. As of October 5 at 2 p.m., the Public Debt was $7,419,005,113,863.64 and is increasing an average of $1.69 billion a day, according to the U.S. Department of Treasury. The deficit is the highest it has ever been in the history of the country. It has even beat George H. W. Bush’s record in 1991.

What unnecessary occurrence do we have to blame? I’m sure we’re all smart enough to figure out whose fault it is, but where the money’s going could be another issue. Our dollars are being sent overseas to fund a war that less than half of the country supports. Our soldiers have died without knowing what they’re fighting for.

Senator John Kerry in the presidential debates on September 30 stated: “[President Bush] rushed the war in Iraq without a plan to win the peace. Now, that is not the judgment that a president of the United States ought to make. You don’t take America to war unless have the plan to win the peace. You don’t send troops to war without the body armor that they need.”

Staying on the topic of money, since it’s especially important to us college students, minimum wage has flat-lined at $5.15 an hour for several years. Do you know anyone who could live, let alone survive, on that much an hour? But yet we look at $6.00 an hour jobs as making it because it’s not minimum wage. On June 18, Senator John Kerry announced plans to raise minimum wage to $7.00 photo by the Associated Press an hour by 2007 Senator John Kerry if he wins the

presidency. This increase would help over 15 million Americans make ends meet, according to the John Kerry website.

Senator Kerry has been labeled a “flipflopper,” “too liberal,” and several other intentionally degrading remarks. I’d rather have a man for president that has the ability to admit that his first instinct was wrong and is able to change his mind publicly.

Jackie Pacheco Assistant Editor I don’t consider myself a republican, a democrat, liberal or conservative. But I am an avid President George Bush fan.

Besides being a good leader for the American people, I think he’s on the right track for the country.

photo by the Terri McConnaughey

Agora staff member Veronica Terry (left) and Jackie Pacheco (right) square off in their own presidential debate.

Some politicians have made terrible mistakes in judgment. But instead of apologizing, these people lie to the American public to cover the mistakes.

That leads me to the liberal argument.

What’s so wrong with being liberal?

Liberal to me is the acceptance of all people and all decisions. Synonyms for liberal are open-minded, free-thinking and tolerant.

Synonyms for conservative are conformist, unadventurous, and old-fashioned. Need I say more?

This country was founded on the ability for each individual person to lead their own life without the control of the government.

Conservatives are too stuck in their own ways to sway. Give me a president who has human emotion, makes human error, and human apologies.

Give me John Kerry, and get Bush out of here.

A major concern for this country is the war. Most people know that if President Bush is re-elected, this war will go on. Yes, it is true that Osama bin Laden and al Qaeda attacked America, not Sadam Hussein. But Sadam Hussein was still a threat. It’s not like President Bush is completely ignoring Osama bin Laden. There are troops all over the Middle East, and in the process of the manhunt, approximately 50 million people have been liberated.

In Senator John Kerry’s typical style, he hasn’t taken a firm stance on what he would do regarding the war. Hopefully, both presidential candidates plan to make America safer. I don’t see how Senator Kerry would plan on that when he voted against the $87 billion supplemental support for our troops. War can be inevitable, and I firmly believe that when a terrorist group bombs your country, retaliation is neces-

sary. How is this going to happen without money?

Recently, President Bush signed the Working Families Tax Relief Act. By signing this bill, 94 million Americans will have a lower tax bill next year. This bill protects millions of families from paying the 2005 alternative minimum tax and also increases the child credit refunds. As far as cutting taxes, I think President Bush is off to a good start.

Now let’s take a look at Senator Kerry’s voting history. He voted to cut the intelligence budget by $6 billion after the first World Trade Center attacks. What? Six billion seems like an awful lot for something that important. Yes, the country is in a deficit. But don’t cut money in all the wrong places. By the way, Senator Kerry has also voted to increase taxes 98 times.

That’s lovely. Take my money, please.

President Bush also has had a strong education plan. In 2001, he signed the “No Child Left Behind” act. This law states that teachers must have completed at least two years of college, have an associates degree or higher or passed an evaluation to prove their knowledge in their area by 20052006. President Bush also plans to allow smaller businesses to be grouped together for a more affordable health care plan. He has no intentions of changing benefits for current or future social security retirees.

He also plans on meeting our energy needs and lessening our energy dependence. You can’t tell me that this doesn’t sound like a steady plan for America.

I say let President Bush finish what he started. We need a strong president that won’t be afraid to take a stand on any issue, even if he stands alone. I think four more years of President Bush will continue to strengthen and i m p r o v e photo by the Associated Press President George Bush America.

Extreme diet fads risk lives for pounds Jenny Creekmore Page Editor

I look fat!

How many of us say this to ourselves while looking in the mirror? But we don’t have time to exercise, so we go for the easy stuff.

A diet pill here, watching what I eat there, and taking a little nasal spray here.

What? Nasal spray?

Yes! Professionals are now coming out with a nasal spray that is supposed to make you lose weight. Doesn’t this sound ridiculous?

While I was looking things up on the Internet, I stumbled

across many unbelievable products for weight-loss.

Another one that I could not believe was a weight- loss body spray. Why pay so much for a product when you could walk around your back yard a few times a week?

Time, for most of us, holds us back from exercising. I catch myself making excuses not to exercise.

I don’t have time, I have to do homework, etc.

But it crossed my mind a couple of weeks ago that it is my life I am throwing away.

Exercising is important. Obesity can lead to many health risks.

That is something I don’t want to risk.

Another thing that crossed my mind is why take something to help you lose weight when it has a huge list of side effects? So I take a pill to help increase

my metabolism but I could get diarrhea, fatigue, headaches, nausea, or even a blood clots? Come on now!

I’m not going to take something that puts my life at risk just to lose a few pounds. I

have looked and looked for something that would be easy.

The answers that keep coming back is exercising. No more excuses.

Getting up and actually doing something seems to be the most logical answer.

The Agora Editorial Policy 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.

Editorial Policy: Unsigned editorials represent the majority opinion of the Agora staff. Signed columns represent the opinion of the writer. All letters-to-the-editor must include a signature, address, and phone number for verification purposes. The Agora reserves the right to edit for clarity, accuracy, length, and libel.

The Agora is a student-managed newspaper that supports a free student press and a member of the Michigan Community College Press Association, the Michigan Collegiate Press Association, the Michigan Press Association, the Community College Journalism Association, College Media Advisers, Associated Collegiate Press, and the Student Press Law Center.

Mark Bergmooser, Adviser

Agora 3 Campus News Cuisine 1300 tempts tastebuds November 1, 2004

Chris Morin

Guest Reporter Cuisine 1300, located in the Admissions building, is the Monroe County Community College (MCCC) restaurant run by culinary art students as training.

“It’s one of the best restaurants I’ll probably be working in,” LaurieBarnet, second year culinary student, said. “We provide gourmet food at family dining prices.”

The menu at Cuisine 1300 is made up every year by the students. Every culinary student has a project in which they have to coordinate two appetizers, one soup, a side salad, an entree salad and three entrees. Chefs Kevin Thomas and Vicki Lavalle go

through the reports and coordinate a menu based on the proposals.

“They also look at what menu items were most popular from last year and the year before,” Barnett said.

Most students do not know about the restaurant Cuisine 1300.

“I do remember hearing something about a restaurant on campus, but I don’t know where it is or anything,” Megan Price,

I think Cusine 1300 is a way of showcasing talents of our college to the community.

“ ” Lori Bean, professor of chemistry

This year the menu is as varied as the culinary students themselves. You can order entrees ranging from “Grilled Breast of Duck with Orange Citrus Sauce” and “Pan-Seasoned Venison with Rosemary and Dried Cherries ($10.95 each) to appetizers such as “Coconut Lobster Cocktail” ($5.25) and “Artichoke and Pistachio Bisque” ($3.95).

MCCC freshman, said. “I’ll probably go check it out now,” she added after seeing the menu and the prices.

“I think Cuisine 1300 is a way of showcasing the talents of our college to the community. Our school has a reputable culinary program and this is a good way of

Guest Reporter

Agora Photo by Kelli Massa

Healthy choice Kelli Massa Assistant Editor The annual Monroe County Community College (MCCC) Health Odyssey was held on Tuesday, October 12 in the Welch Health Education Building (HBuilding).

The Odyssey began at 9 a.m. and ran until noon. Free health screenings were offered including free pulmonary function, blood pressure, height/weight, chiropractic screening, asthma screening, massage, and glaucoma testing. Also, different blood testing was available for cancer, prostate, thyroid, and more for prices ranging between fifteen and forty dollars.

Physical Therapist Linda Lauer from Holistic Physical Therapy, LLC, had a table set up at Health Odyssey which included a device called “The Chi Machine.”

“The Chi Machine stimulates circulation, helps relieve any

stress and energizes you,” Lauer said.

Free speeches about nutrition were also available for students and community members at the event. Speakers included certified Black Belt Mark Bergmooser, MCCC instructor of nursing Dr. Karen Brooke, MCCC Chef Kevin Thomas and keynote speaker Susan Morgan, M.S., R.D. MCCC student Kim Billmaier said the Health Odyssey is beneficial for students who take advantage of the event.

“It’s good for people who come because it’s free and it tells you information about your health,” she said.

According to Tom Ryder, MCCC fitness activities and campus/community events coordinator, it’s all of the community groups and the MCCC Health Sciences Division that make this event possible.

“This is truly a great event, not only for the students, but for the community as well,” Ryder said.

the presentation and the atmosphere of the restaurant.

There are linens on the tables, and you are served with high quality flatware.

Cuisine 1300 is located in the administration building across from the cafeteria. It opens for business October 22, and will be open weekdays 11:30 a.m. -2 p.m.

Cuisine 1300 is reservation only.

Reservations can be obtained in the campus bookstore.

The restaurant times are almost booked through December 15, the end of the semester. They will reopen again next semester with buffet-style eating. Chefs working at the restaurant say patrons will still be able to expect the same high quality food that has made Cuisine 1300 popular with members of the community.

Choir, band make debut in new La-Z-Boy center Lee Yoas

Community member Maurine Sharp relaxes while using the Chi Machine with the help of physical therapist Linda Lauer.

wooing potential donors to the college,” Lori Bean, professor of chemistry, said.

One complaint Bean had about the restaurant was because of the hours when it is open, it is difficult for faculty and staff to get to the restaurant to eat during lunch times.

“This is my ninth year on faculty, and I’ve only eaten there once. You kind of have to go out of your way to eat at Cuisine 1300,” Bean said.

When she did eat there, she was very impressed by more than just the quality of the food.

“I was amazed to the see the care put into preparation and presentation. You get the complete experience.”

Chefs at Cuisine 1300 focus on the taste of the food, as well as

The evening was damp and cool, but the atmosphere in the Meyer Theater at the La-Z-Boy Center was charged with electricity. A full house sat in anticipation of what was to come.

It was the grand opening of the center and the Agora Choir and the Monroe County Community College (MCCC) Symphony Band had the honor of being the first to entertain on the great stage.

“I am excited,” said Jim Nordstrom, an 18 year member of the trumpet section. “I am proud to be a part of such a progressive community and to play in this new venue,” he said.

The various members of the band paced about the new band room, excited.waiting and anticipating their turn to go on stage after the Agora Choir had finished their part of the program.

MCCC student Becky Seres, who plays in the flute section said, “It is so big and awesome.”

“After 20 years as a member of the group; we are playing in the ultimate performance setting.

How honored I feel to be a part of this grand performance, as well as a part of this band with all my friends,” said band member Leanne Pobursky.

“A grand new facility, fantastic sound, and I am excited to go on stage in just a few moments,” band member John Russell said.

The band members weren’t the only nervous and excited performers. The Agora Choir had not practiced singing on stage till the night of the concert.

“I could actually hear others voices along with my own. It was an honor. Twenty five years from now we will look back and remember we were chosen to be first to perform in this fantastic building,” choir member Fred Corser said.

“The sound and staging was absolutely tremendous,” MCCC board member Susan Miller said.

“It was a joy to hear every section of the choir and the symphony band.

At last these wonderful musical groups have a true home in which to perform.”

History of photogrophy class added to MCCC curriculum Heather Wilson Reporter For many years there hasn’t been a photography class at Monroe County Community College (MCCC), but this fall a history of photography class was added to the list.

“I am happy that this class has come here to the community college. It sounded interesting to me so I wanted to take it,” Brandi Subyak, MCCC student, said.

“The class is not a hands-on class, but a class about how photography is made. The class educates people on the evolution of photography, and how it started as an art form. It also shows how photography came to be,” Kevin Tricky, professor of history of photography, said.

The class also focuses on how to identify older photographs.

This helps aspiring photographers by giving them a chance to look at what sells and what doesn’t.

The class uses the book Seizing the Light: A History of Photography, by Robert Hirsch.

The class has taught the students about different photographers, how to identify them by style, and how to identify the process they used. It also teaches different aspects of photography.

“The class is not just memorizing names; it is also studying images and the aspects of them, also to help determine why a photographer is important.

We just don’t take notes; the students are here to try and understand the photographs and

to look at them more critically,” Tricky said.

“I like that we learn not only the history of photography, but the processes and the details that are talked about in the class,” Subyak said.

The class is new this fall and there are hopes from Trickey it will come back for later semesters.

“This class was chosen because Kevin Tricky wanted to start up a photography program at MCCC. Since the school didn’t have the funding to start a complete program, I suggested that we have a history of photography class to help get people into the thought of having a photography class,” Dr. William McCloskey, dean of humanities and social sciences, said.

4

Agora

Credit cards: friend or foe?

Taryn Kapp Editor-in-Chief Credit cards. They’re those small rectangular pieces of plastic heaven that let you purchase something without the money coming straight out of your hand. How wonderful it is to think that even though you bought a shirt for $25, and you still have enough cash in your purse to fill your tank and get a copy of Cosmopolitan. Ah, so wonderful…right?

Wrong.

Monroe County Community College student Megan Gerweck found out how wrong one day when she realized she had racked up six credit cards and an overdraft bank statement. Worst of all, the job she had wasn’t bringing in enough to cover it.

“I have one from American Eagle, Maurices, Elder-Beerman, Capital One, Visa, a Pet Care card, and a debit card,” Gerweck said.

What would make someone go credit card crazy like that?

Sky-high limits and ground-low monthly payments are tactics companies use to lure in students.

“I figured I could afford the $10 a month payments, so I never really worried about it in the beginning. When I charged so much, the companies wanted more money monthly. By that time, my income couldn’t support it. Then there were the late fees,” Gerweck said.

When a credit card payment is late or the limit has been exceeded, the company will charge extra fees. Capital One and Visa is usually $30.

“It doesn’t matter if you’re 50 cents or $50 over, if it’s one day or three weeks. The late fees are worse than the actual payments,” she said.

Gerweck’s story isn’t uncommon or even a worstcase scenario. Some students find themselves thousands of dollars in debt with student loans to pay for college.

“I have one credit card, but it’s a student-use card. I used it to help pay my tuition. Even though the debt is pretty big, I feel a little better knowing it was for school and not for something stupid I decided to buy,” Andrew Magids, student, said.

Have no fear, there is light at the end of the tunnel. Terry Savage, finance columnist for the Chicago Sun-Times, offers help.

“Make a list of what you owe, to what companies you owe it, and the minimum payments of each. You have to know where you stand and prioritize your payments,” Savage said.

So no matter how hard it might be to stare all that debt in the face, it has to be done.

“If you have one or two small balances, you might want to apply extra money to pay them off, while continuing to pay the minimums on the cards with larger balances. Or you might want to pay off the card with the highest interest rate first.

Then attack the bigger balances,” Savage said.

The age-old credit card advice still holds true: never charge more than you can afford to pay off next month.

Feature

November 1 , 2004

Agora photo by Kelyn Dillon

Students Jessica Wahl, Mitch Rabideau, and Katie Grochowicz connect outside the MCCC library.

Tech toy take over Kelli Massa Assistant Editor Where can the average college student find Internet access, weather and news updates, a video camera, digital photos, GPS units, hit songs, music videos, a walky talky, text messaging, email access, and a telephone? Right in his pocket! Students ten years ago did not own most of these technological toys, but now they come inside hundreds of cellular phones.

Eighteen-year-old Monroe County Community College (MCCC) student Jessica Smith does not currently have a cell phone, unlike almost all of her friends. She plans to buy one soon, which she will use only for emergencies.

“I think a lot of people have it for the emergency purpose and then they’ll start getting more numbers on it and talking to their friends more,” Smith said.

Although cell phones are commonly used for personal calls, they help many people, like MCCC student Christina Campbell, get through their busy days.

Campbell is a mother to a 16 and an 11 year old and said her cell phone helps her to be reached when needed.

“I think they’re (cell phones) more needed because people’s lives are just so busy now, so crammed. With work and school and children, I think it’s necessary,” Campbell said.

MCCC student Stephanie Woolard said she does not think cell phones are as much of a necessity as they are a convenience and only uses hers for emergencies.

“I think there are much more communicational outlets, there are much more ways to communicate with others, but I think we’re disconnected with one another emotionally. It doesn’t really bring us closer.”

Smith agrees and said she thinks people now have cell phones more for convenience than anything else.

“Ten years ago they weren’t really out there and I don’t think they’re any more needed now, but people think they are.”

MCCC does not currently have any policies regarding use

of cell phones during classes.

However, many professors, including Joanna Briganti, professor of political science, have their own.

“If it (a cell phone) rings in my class I answer it and embarrass them,” Briganti said. “If it’s a girl calling her boyfriend I’ll flirt and say ‘no he’s not here right now,’ and ‘well who are you? He never talks about you,’ and I’ll mess with them.”

If someone’s cell phone rings a second time she has no problem taking it away. She said students are usually respectful during class and leave phones off, especially after her warning.

Other professors like Lawrence Leach, professor of humanities and theatre, do not have a policy right now because cell phones have not become destructive. He said students depend upon cell phones because they’re the “newest toy.”

“These sorts of gadgets, which can have a helpful purpose, fill empty spaces in meaningless lives. I doubt that people with IQs over 100 use them very often,” Leach said.

Miss Monroe chooses life Susan Rhodes Page Editor Kelly Smock is 18 years old, the new Miss Monroe County Scholarship Pageant winner, and a student at Monroe County Community College (MCCC).

While Kelly’s mother, Bonnie Smock, was pregnant with Kelly it was discovered that Kelly might be deformed or have Down syndrome.

“The problems were more with me than with Kelly. There were many complications because I was older when I had Kelly,” Mrs. Smock said.

Smock’s platform for the Miss Monroe County Scholarship Pageant is Photo coutresy Kelly Smock New Beginnings Mercy House.

Kelly Smock was crowned Miss “New Beginnings Mercy House is Monroe on August 21, 2004. an organization which helps women in crisis pregnancy situations; financial,

spiritual, and emotional support is given to those who need help,” Smock said.

Smock began helping at New Beginnings Mercy House prior to entering the contest.

“There was just something in her [Kelly] heart that told her to enter the Miss Monroe competition using Mercy House as her platform. Kelly is truly an inspiration and I admire that someone so young can do so much good for so many others,” Brenda Pawlicki, director of New Beginnings Mercy House, said.

“I always knew that I wanted to work to promote pro-life because my mother chose to give me life,” Smock said.

All of the Miss Monroe contestants competed in the following categories: A ten minute interview with a panel of judges, swimsuit modeling, a talent contest, an evening gown competition, and a final question about the contestant’s platform.

“During the evening gown competition I had to wear my alternate gown because I had lost weight during the week and my first choice gown didn’t fit. I consider my alternate gown to be my lucky dress now,” Smock said.

Smock is the first Miss Monroe County Scholarship winner to receive a special made necklace from Alexander Jewelers.

Smock can also keep her crown.

“The crown is stored in a cherry wood velvet lined box. It’s very beautiful,” she said.

A major part of being crowned Miss Monroe is the many appearances Smock is required to attend.

“So far I’ve been to the rodeo for the March of Dimes at the county fairgrounds, the Luna Pier car show, I’ve talked to 250 children at Jefferson Elementary,

See “Miss Monore,” page 7

Feature

4 November 1, 2004

Agora

5

Student becomes second high school Writing Fellow in MCCC history Kelyn Dillon Reporter

The Writing Fellow Program allows college students to tutor other students. Rebecca Kennedy, a dual enrolled home schooled student, was excited

Net for each other: Dating expands across Web Heather Wilson

Reporter There are commercials on the television and ads on the radio about the world of online dating.

There are many different companies out there, from personal ads on Yahoo, to professional companies like E Harmony and American Singles.

Since there are so many services to choose from, the question is are they worth it, and do they work?

There is a website which helps out with questions or tips for online dating services: www.online-dating.info. It posts the top 12 online dating services, regional dating directories, and a tips and advice area.

The costs of these programs are high. For someone to become a member of Yahoo Personals, it costs is $19.95 for a one month subscription or $89.95 for a one year subscription.

On American Singles, it costs $24.95 a month or $59.95 for three months. Without the subscription, the communication is limited to two people who might be interested in each other.

Do these services work?

“I believe that they do work.

I had a girlfriend for two years after I met her on an online dating service.” Jason Berry, Monroe County Community College student, said.

According to a poll that was taken on October 1, 20 students said they believe dating services really work and only eight said yes. Of those eight that said yes, only two would be willing to use one.

about oppertunity to become a Writing Fellow. Kennedy is the second dual enrolled student Writing Fellow in ten years.

“I enjoy writing so much and thought that becoming a Writing Fellow would be a good opportunity to share

maturity needed to become a Writing Fellow. This is the second time I have selected a dual-enrolled s t u d e n t f o r t h e WA C program, and I’m sure that Rebecca will live up to my e x p e c t a t i o n s , ” Ti m o t h y

Agora photo by Kelyn Dillon

Rebecca Kennedy, right, tutors a student on a paper in the Writing Center, located in the LAL in C-218.

that enthusiasm with other students while learning more about writing myself,” Kennedy said.

“Rebecca Kennedy completed my Comp I class last winter and she was the best writer in the class. She also displayed a level of

Dillon Writing Across the Curriculum coordinator said.

Eve DeJesus, a writing f e l l o w, works with Kennedy every Monday and Friday, 8 a.m.—9 a.m.

“She’s really eager to tutor… wants to tutor,” DeJesus said.

She enjoys the interaction with other students and professors that college brings, but she likes the flexibility of home school.

“I’m lucky as far as that goes because I have a fairly flexible schedule at home.

Because of that, I can plan my work at home around my schedule at college,” Kennedy said.

One would think that juggling two course loads and other aspects of life would be challenging, but Kennedy seems undeterred by the workload. “ R e a l l y, t h e h a r d e s t part is just working out getting to and from campus since I don’t have a license or car yet.”

Kennedy said.

Because this is her first semester as a Writing Fellow, she also has to take Advanced Composition. This is a rigorous course that outlines the details of the Writing Fellow program and also allows students to perfect writing skills.

“I’m still learning about the program myself, but the more I learn in class and

through my own experience, the more impressed I am with it. I’ve definitely learned a lot more about different learning styles and methods and how we can encourage learning in others. The class has helped me evaluate my own learning process as well and I feel much more prepared to take full advantage of my education. As far as the tutoring itself goes, I’ve only had one appointment so far, but I’m looking forward to more in the future.”

In her spare time, she is involved with 4-H, her church’s youth group, and is a catechism class aide. She also participates in the Monroe County Community College’s choir the Agora Chorale and enjoys her mother’s art classes. In the future she wants writing to play a central role in her career and life.

“Someday I’d love to be a published author and poet,”she said.

She also plans to receive a master ’s degree in library science and become a librarian.

Monroe takes on Monroe County Community College MCCC student fills schedule to the top Andrea Poteet Copy Editor Wo r k .

Classes.

Homework. Friends. The typical college student somehow finds the motivation to meet an abundance of challenges e v e r y d a y. B u t M o n r o e County Community College (MCCC) student Jackie Monroe not only meets, but thrives on the challenges of her busy life.

A n a c t i v e Wr i t i n g Fellow, Monroe also tutors various humanities courses.

In addition, she is a Supplemental Instruction (SI) leader for Philosophy and Political Science.

“I think Jackie enjoys working in the program and it shows through her

e f f o r t s , ” Ti m D i l l o n , Wr i t i n g Across the C u r r i c u l u m c o o r d i n a t o r, said.

Off campus, Monroe h e a d s t h e c h i l d r e n ’s Sunday school at her church. This puts her in charge of 130 children, 18 teachers, Cub Scouts, Boy Scouts, a girls activity program, and a summer program.

Along with her husband, Monroe runs a lawn care service. She also has three children and must get them to their activities and school.

She is currently working on a motivational book as well as a children’s story.

“I think Jackie is very conscientious and caring a n d I d o n ’ t t h i n k s h e ’s capable of doing anything

Photo courtesy of Dannica Michaud

J a c k i e M o n r o e , W r i t i n g F e l l o w, S u p p l e m e n t a l I n s t r u c t o r, wo r k i n g m o t h e r, a n d S u n d a y s ch o o l teacher, takes a break from working in the LAL.

less than 100 percent,” Beth Kamprath, SI Liaison, said.

“Jackie is motivated by her natural nurturing instinct that is so special about her” Arwada Nichols, MCCC Writing Fellow, said.

On top of her other responsibilities, Monroe finds the time to volunteer for the Right to Life chapter in

Southgate and a grief counseling group through Oakwood hospital.

“I honestly love to serve others,” she said.

Rather than buckling under the pressure, Monroe thrives on it. “I am at my best and happiest when I am healthy, yet stressed,” she said. “If you give me a task and a deadline, I am in my element.”

A&E Tribute band to play at MCCC 6

Agora

Jackie Pacheco Assistant Editor Yesterday, all the Beatles seemed so far away. Now it looks as if they’re here to play.

On November 5 at 8 p.m., Monroe County Community College will welcome the next best thing to the Beatles themselves.

“1964- The Tribute” consists of Mark Benson (John Lennon), James Pou (George Harrison), Gary Grimes (Paul McCartney), and Greg George (Ringo Starr).

According to Rolling Stone, this band has worked their way to the top to become the number one Beatles tribute show on earth.

“When we started this in 1988, we really had no intentions of doing this full time. We thought it would be fun to do once every month or every two months,” Benson said.

The band has since made their tribute band a full-time career,

November 1, 2004

playing anywhere from 140150 shows a year. Everything about them has become a replicate of the original Beatles, down to the hair styles and ways of speaking.

“Once we had done the show for about two years, it really took off. That’s when we decided this would be more then just playing music,” Benson said.

Traveling the world, the band has played coast to coast in America and Canada and

Beatles show in the new La-ZBoy Center.

“I think this will be an awesome show. The Beatles are great and it’s so cool that the college is bringing a band that is just like them to play here in Monroe,” Evans said.

Tom Ryder, campus community events coordinator, agrees and also sees the benefits this will bring for the center.

“This is a premier grand opening event. Having this group will show what a great

“ ”

This just shows that there is nowhere on the planet that this type of music hasn’t seeped into.

Mark Benson

performed in England, Germany, Austria, South America, Hawaii and Bermuda.

MCCC student Becky Evans looks forward to the

building this is and what it’s really all about,” Ryder said.

According to Benson, the band’s greatest achievement came in 1999 when they be-

“1964 - The Tribute” band members from left to right: Greg George (Ringo), Mark Benson (John), Gary Grimes (Paul), and James Pou (George).

came the first western world group to be invited to Germany to perform at the ceremony that commemorated the fall of the Berlin Wall. At the show, they met West German Chancellor Helmut Kohl, as well as East German Prime Minister Hans Modrow.

“It was just an honor. We weren’t sure how the people

there would react or how much they had actually listened to the Beatles; their music was never released in Germany. But the fans were all singing along for every song we did. This just shows that there is nowhere on the planet that this type of music hasn’t seeped into,” Benson said.

“Interview” intrigues viewers

photo courtesy of Ultra Violet

Ultra Violet members Greg Tyler, Rick Canzano, Remy Lambert, and Jimmy Slaven.

Ultra Violet lights stage Terri McConnaughey Copy Editor The band Ultra Violet has been performing classic 70’s rock and alternative music since 1998. They have played clubs in the Metro Detroit area, and several private parties which include charity events, one hosted by Chris Chellios of the Detroit Red Wings, and musician Kid Rock. What differentiate this band are their unusual variety of music, and the perseverance of their members.

The band members include Remy Lambert on guitar, Greg Tyler on drums, Jimmy Slaven on bass, and Rick Canzano on keyboards and trumpet. All of the members sing lead vocal, depending on what song, and who fits the range.

Their version of Q u e e n ’s “Bohemian Rhapsody” is astounding.

With Canzano on vocals, and keyboard, and Lambert on guitar, they excite the audience with their noholds-barred talent. The entire audience sang along with the band.

Though they enjoy performing, each musician holds down a day job.

Lambert does voiceovers for commercials and owns his own recording studio.

Tyler is a union pipe fitter with General Motors, Slaven is a furniture d e s i g n e r, a n d C a n z a n o owns a 7/11 store in Novi, Michigan.

For more information on U l t r a Vi o l e t v i s i t t h e i r w e b s i t e , w w w. u l t r a violetrocks.com.

VHS: Veronica’s Hollywood Scoop Veronica Terry Page Editor In the 1980s, bestselling author Anne Rice began writing possibly the most provocative and terrifying trilogy of all time— “The Vampire Chronicles.” The Chronicles are still going strong today, but nothing could beat the first three, entitled “Interview with the Vampire,” “The Vampire Lestat,” and “The Queen of the Damned,” respectively.

In 1994, after 19 years in the works “Interview” was made into a compelling motion picture directed by Neil Jordan. The movie may be the closest a film has ever come to mirroring the original novel.

Rice herself wrote the screenplay. It may be considered comforting to know that the only person to remove important details was the woman that created the details.

The blockbuster starred Brad Pitt as the main character ,Louis; Tom Cruise as the villainous vampire, Lestat; and a young Kirsten Dunst as the child vampiress Claudia. Other big-name stars included Antonio Banderas as Armand, Stephen Rea as Santiago, and Christian Slater as the reporter, Daniel.

The movie grossed an amazing $105,264,608, according to the Internet Movie Database.

Michael Wilmington, of the Chicago Tribune gave it four stars in November of 1994.

The movie is a relentlessly disturbing ride through the mind of the undead. Every action and every word is deep cut to the core for the viewers. For once in the history of cinema the vampire is not the antagonist; he is the victim, the hero, and the star.

“Interview” is about a young reporter who is found by the lonely vampire, Louis. Louis takes viewers on a sad and horrifying journey of his two centuries of immortality.

Louis’ maker, Lestat, is an evil killer, taking lives of all who cross his path. At one point, Lestat tells Louis, “God kills indiscriminately, and so shall we.”

during an equestrian competition in Culpeper, Virginia in May of 1995.

Doctors were not hopeful, and Reeves shortly contemplated suicide. However, in 2000, the actor surprised doctors world wide when he regained use of his index finger.

Creating and heading the Christopher Reeves Paralysis Foundation, the wheelchair bound actor became the focus of many controversies. In the recent Presidential debates, John Kerry mentioned Reeves by name in arguing against the president’s position that stemcell research must be restricted

to protect the lives of human embryos.

The Bush family themselves referred to Reeves as an “example of personal courage, optimism and self-determination.”

His unbelievable courage has made Christopher Reeves and inspiration and role model to many people, not just paralysis victims.

Having once said, “So many of our dreams at first seem impossible, then they seem improbable, and then when we summon the will, they soon become inevitable,” he has shown his true colors, and they reveal him to be more than just an actor. He’s shown that he truly is a superman!

see “VHS,” page 7

Reeves remembered Travis Seppala Guest Writer Superman is dead!

That’s what many people said on Monday, October 11 as word quickly spread that actor Christopher Reeves died the previous night at the age of 52.

He was hospitalized on the ninth to be treated for a pressure wound (a thing found often in paralysis victims). During the treatment, he went into cardiac arrest and fell into a coma. He never awoke.

As most readers know, Reeves became paralyzed from the neck down after an accident

November 1, 2004 from “Record,” page 1 count elsewhere toward graduation,” Schmidt said.

The growth of Monroe C o u n t y ’s p o p u l a t i o n h a s increased the number of students graduating from local high schools.

“Monroe County is fairly large. There are 67,000 people in Monroe County,” Schmidt said.

Freshman students Abby We r n i m o n t a n d J a c o b Jenkins did not realize that they were part of a record setting freshman class.

from “WEJY,” page 1 Any high school students previously enrolled in the broadcasting class were allowed to join the ranks in the MCCC broadcasting c l a s s . T h a t w a y, t h e y weren’t completely cut out of the arrangement and they could still take part in the class.

“With this partnership, a few of the high school students will still be able to get involved with the broadcasting system under the MCCC instruction,” Monday said.

After paying approximately $130 to get another phone line installed, the only continuing fees the

In the Mix

We r n i m o n t i s a 2 0 0 4 graduate of Bedford High and Jenkins is a 2004 graduate of Monroe High.

“I like it here; everyone is so nice and eager to help when I need it,” Wernimont said.

“According to national statistics 60 to 70 percent [of graduates from high school] go on to higher education,” Randall Daniels, Director of Admissions said.

“We have 35 percent of M o n r o e C o u n t y ’s 2 0 0 4 graduated high school class enrolled here at the college,” Daniels said. college must pay are the monthly phone bills.

“This deal was basically done with a handshake. It’s not like we’ve entered into a 20 page contract with Monroe High School. This just is giving students a chance to use the equipment that’s not being used,” Dean of Humanities and Social Sciences Bill McCloskey said.

Officially, MHS still owns the license to the radio s t a t i o n . H o w e v e r, b o t h schools are benefiting from the arrangement.

“We’ve always had a partnership with MCCC to some degree.

This partnership could grow into something bigger and better.

The future is bright for this radio station,” Monday said.

from “Miss Monroe,” page 4 rode in the Ida parade, made an appearance at the Touch of Country for the Historical Society Heritage Tour, did a fashion show for CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates), the Right to Life annual convention in Lansing, and will

appear at other various functions and events,” Smock said.

Smock also received a $6000 scholarship to attend the school of her choice, MCCC. She hopes to become a news broadcaster in the future.

The increase in non traditional students attending MCCC attributes to the record breaking statistics for this fall semester.

“People are changing jobs, or maybe they’re preparing for a change in career,” Schmidt said.

“Convenience is another reason.

People find it convenient to take classes close to home, and do the other things in their life that they want to do,” Daniels said.

The various divisions added sections to their classes to accommodate the record 4177 students this fall.

from “VHS,” page 6 Lestat offers Louis the child vampire, Claudia, as a companion. Claudia could very well be the most tragic figure in modern film and novel. She is confined to her childlike body forever, though her mind matures.

Sickening as it is, we watch painfully as she realizes her eternal situation as it becomes her aching affliction.

In his search for his burning desire to know

“The class size is about the same, but we are utilizing more of the classrooms though,” Daniels said.

“A lot of people come here because we are smaller than four year universities and we offer a more individualized education,” Daniels said.

“We’re a good solid community college. We have a good reputation,” Schmidt said.

MCCC is putting the ‘community’ back in community college by offering lower tuition, higher education, and advancement of careers. where his kind came from, Louis stumbles upon the vampire coven that will ruin the life he had built. Here he meets Armand, the leader of the coven, whose lack of answers pushes Louis over the edge.

In the end, Louis discovers that he is destined to be without companionship for all eternity.

The movie is an incredible accomplishment.

Vi e w e r s a r e f o r c e d t o disregard all they were ever taught about vampires and allow them into their hearts as the emotional characters.

Agora

7

RVeader’s oice What would you like to see in The Agora?

“I’d like to see sports articles.”

Darryl Nippes

Got something on your mind?

Let your voice be heard.

Write a letter to the editor email us: agora@monroeccc.edu drop off: Room L202

“Have an article on what I can do with my associate degree when I receive it.”

Tira BurkeRaymond

n

d

d y

When you are ready to take the next step, we are ready for you.

r

d

y n

800.GO-TO-EMU EASTERN MICHIGAN UNIVERSITY www.emich.edu/admissions

“I want to see show dates for local concerts and venues.”

Katie Grochowicz

Agora 8

Spotlight

November 1, 2004

On the evening of October 22, 2004, the stage of Meyer Theatre came alive with the Toledo Symphony Orchestra at the grand opening of MCCC’s new La-Z-Boy Center.

Agora photos by Heather Wilson