Agora

The Vol. 50, Issue 4

November 8, 2007

MONROE COUNTY COMMUNITY COLLEGE

Accreditation

process starts By Emily Chandonnet Assistant Editor

Agora photo by Charlene Hunt

U.S. Army veteran Brian Keith sits outside Union Station in Washington D.C., hoping to collect spare change. Homelessness is not exclusive to big cities. Monroe County has approximately 250 homeless residents. Read more about Monroe County’s Homeless Awareness Week on page 6.

Monroe County Community College (MCCC) was established in 1964, but the process of becoming an accredited college requires long hours of paperwork. Every ten years every American college must create a report specifically stating how they meet the accreditation requirements and criteria of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools Higher Learning Commission. The process has started once again for MCCC’s accreditation, scheduled to take place in the fall of 2009. Having an accreditation provides the public, especially present and future college students, with assurance that the college is up to national par. Accreditation is proof that the college is continuing to make changes toward improvement and is reaching requirements for the future. This past summer faculty, administrators and staff were asked to be a part of the ten different subcommittees that will create the report for accreditation. Each subcommittee has its own co-chairpersons, all together adding up to 33 MCCC employees who are steering the self study report of accreditation. At the beginning of the fall semester these ten subcommittees started recruiting more faculty, staff and administrators to be part of their committee. On Oct. 9, MCCC’s InService Day, the committees reported back to all of MCCC’s employees on the process that is taking place toward being accredited. Inspired by the success of retired Detroit Tigers announcer Erie Harwell’s appearance at a faculty breakfast earlier in the school year, the Logistics Committee incorporated a baseball theme into the In-Service Day. Many commit-

tee members were dressed in baseball uniforms and incorporated baseball animation in their presentations. The room was decorated in baseball decor and table settings included baseball stress balls, chewing gum and thunder sticks that were used for applause instead of clapping. “They wanted to make the day interesting,” MCCC chemistry professor Dr. David Waggoner said. “So they hyped it up with the baseball theme to gets peoples’ attention and to make sure that they had their remaining interests for the rest of the day. I heard an overwhelming amount of approval for having the baseball theme.” There are six regional accreditation associations across the Untied States, and Michigan is part of the largest association, the North Central Association. The mapping for the six regional associations does not make logical sense, but when they were formed in the late 1800’s they were mapped out according to local industry. Our region was formed accordingly because it is the farming region. Each regional association has very similar processes. There are two kinds of accreditations in the North Central Association, and MCCC is proceeding with the more traditional process called PEAQ (Program to Evaluate and Advance Quality). “Basically the PEAQ process is creating a formal report with tons of paperwork,” Dr. Waggoner said. Accreditation affects every MCCC student. When the results of the accreditation are evaluated through the Higher Learning Commission, MCCC will be given feedback for improvements including a check list of requirements that need to be fulfilled in the ten years before the next accreditation. With each accreditation the college must improve, or their next accreditation will not be accepted.

MCISD proposes college collaboration Middle college hopes to benefit high school students through the “power of site” By Jeffrey Kodysh Editor-in-Chief

Donald Spencer, superintendent of the Monroe County Intermediate School District (MCISD), presented information about middle colleges to Monroe County Community College (MCCC)’s board of trustees at the Oct. 22 meeting. Spencer encouraged MCCC to collaborate with MCISD in an educational project to bring a middle college to Monroe County, changing the way some Monroe high school students are educated. According to the Middle College National Consortium, a middle college is an educational program in which high school classes are taught on a college campus. Students are offered the opportunity to take college

INSIDE Editorial...............................2 Campus News....................3 Feature..........................4 & 5 Community News..............6 A&E.....................................7 Spotlight.............................8

level classes during their junior and senior years of high school. Middle college students, in addition to their completion of a high school diploma, are able to receive up to 60 college credits in the five-year program. Middle colleges are generally geared toward at-risk high school students and high school students who are not already college bound. According to Spencer, having a middle college on a college campus allows for the “power of the site” to inspire students who might not have performed well in school to perform well in middle college. Spencer said he believes that a middle college on MCCC’s campus would help serve the educational needs of the community. Michigan,

Possible change for science degree....... 3

according to Spencer, is below the national averages for residents with college degrees, and the combined lack of college educated residents and loss of manufacturing jobs has hurt the state economically. “Education makes a tremendous difference in what you earn throughout your life,” Spencer said. “It makes really all the difference, in my mind, whether you are going to be able to compete in today’s world.” Spencer said that Michigan needs to change its educational system if it is to survive in the age of globalization. “We have to look at creative ways to change our current educational system,” he said. The first step in bringing a middle college to MCCC would be a formal application from both MCCC and the

MCISD to secure state funding for the planning process. “We anticipate that in the next month or so that there will be another round of planning grants available [from the state], and when those grants are become available I would like to be in a position to apply for one,” Spencer said. Meagan Walker, an MCCC student that attended the board meeting, said she thinks that middle college is not a good idea for our campus. “We already have dual enrollment here at MCCC. Why do we need a new program to bring high school students on campus?” she said. Walker said she is also concerned that high school aged students would reduce the maturity level of campus.

Humane Society of Monroe County seeks aid for winter.......................6 Three quick tips on how to become more energized .............................4

“There is a time in your life in which you want to be held accountable for your actions,” she said. “I don’t know if most high-school aged students are ready for the college student’s level of accountability. In high school, if homework wasn’t done, most teachers would give you an extension to finish it. Most college professors will not.” If state funding is secured, more detailed plans would be drawn up concerning classes to be offered, how community partners such as Mercy Memorial Hospital might become involved, and what criteria prospective students would need to meet. After plans are drawn, MCCC’s Board of Trustees and MCISD’s Board would have the final decision on whether or not to bring the middle college to MCCC’s campus.

‘Samantha Who?’ wakes up television audience.....7

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Editorial

THE AGORA

The Political Rag

Masculinity challenges femininity By Bethany Younglove Staff Writer

By Charlene Hunt Staff Writer

The media has woken from a coma-like slumber to unplug its ears and listen to the voting bracket that had a hand in the outcome of the 2004 presidential election: Americans 18-25 years old. Campaign strategists are pointing their candidates to today’s youth, and today’s youth are gawking at the bad decisions of today’s lawmakers. Deciding on a balance between the two is more difficult than it seems. For starters, California governor Arnold Schwarzenegger is throwing gas on political wildfires by admitting to smoking (and inhaling) marijuana during the ‘70s. “That is not a drug. It’s a leaf,” Schwarzenegger said in a GQ magazine interview. And while reporters go nuts over that situation, the marijuana debate continues onward and pauses in Portland, Oregon, where citizens vote to try and legalize the substance. If passed, the measure would permit possession of less than an ounce of marijuana, but only for people over the age of 21. Insert media hyper-induced seizure here. Half the media world is lingering over stories about who did which drugs at what time, and now we have states legalizing it and governors claiming they aren’t drugs at all. To make things more interesting, according to CNN, a feisty Rev. Al Sharpton has issued a formal statement demanding that Vice President Cheney denounce his private hunting club (which may or may not have had a confederate flag hanging in a garage) and apologize for going somewhere that represents the hate and lynching of blacks. When weighing the balances of immaturity and innovation, it is vital to remember Stephen Colbert’s presidential publicity stunt that landed him on Meet the Press one Sunday morning. When I need a good rollon-the-floor laugh I turn to Colbert and Stewart, but the majority of today’s youth is getting all their political knowledge from fake and largely humorous news shows. How do we intrigue college-age voters without embellishing the truth? Youth and Internet tycoons MTV and MySpace joined forces on Oct. 29 to deliver a thorough political dialogue to college age individuals across the country. The second in a series of programs hosted on MySpace, presidential hopeful Barack Obama (D.-Ill.) answered a range of questions asked by college students in eastern Iowa as well as across the country. The show was displayed via Internet for MySpace viewers to watch and participate in. Viewers could submit questions for Obama by instant messaging Washington Post political blogger and show moderator Chris Cillizza. Cillizza then picked through the messages and fed the more impressive questions to the senator. Throughout the live podcast the questions were projected onto the Web page being viewed. Viewers could immediately vote on how they felt about Obama’s responses. The show used bright visuals, modern music, and snappy cutting-edge graphics to grab the attention of younger viewers. For once I’m actually proud I gave MTV a shot. I was impressed with the program and its refreshing innovation. CNN’s YouTube debates better look out, Myspace and MTV have joined forces and it does not look like this idea is going down a toilet bowl anytime soon.

November 8, 2007

Femininity is often considered sensitive and gentle, while masculinity is considered hard and strong. The feminine movement has succeeded in empowering women, but has it given them a masculine spirit? What has it done to the men in this world? Has

it feminized them? Might this explain the reason many guys sit in front of a computer or television screen playing the popular Halo series or other shoot‘em-up-and-become-wicked-sweet games? Is it because women have begun to fight for themselves that men do not feel as though they have anything to fight for in this world except those who would come to kill them in a fantasy video world?

“God designed men to be dangerous,” says John Eldredge, author of Wild at Heart. “Simply look at the dreams and desires written in the heart of every boy: To be a hero, to be a warrior, to live a life of adventure and risk.” Women, we were not made to be damsels in distress who cannot do or think anything for themselves, but at the same time we were not made to

be mannish. I am not saying women should go back to the way of life of the 1950s when women cooked and cleaned all day. In the Bible, Proverbs 31 refers to a woman who is very much in the business world. “She goes to inspect a field and buys it; with her earnings she plants a vineyard. She is energetic and strong, a hard worker. She makes sure her dealings are profitable; her lamp burns late into the night.” (verses 16-18). Even though we can be tough business women, how many of us, maybe deep down somewhere hidden far away from the world, dream to be Cinderella or Sleeping Beauty? How many of us long to be sought after, fought for? Femininity is something women were designed to have. If we were designed to be masculine, we would have been wired that way. Former brigadier general to the U.S. Armed Forces Sherian Grace Cadoria once said, “By act of Congress, male officers are gentlemen, but by act of God, we are ladies. We don’t have to be little mini-men and try to be masculine and use obscene language to come across.”

Agora illustration by Bethany Younglove

Accreditation process reveals accountability By Jeffrey Kodysh Editor-in-Chief

When a teacher assigns a semester grade in a class, he or she examines many factors in determining the grade. The teacher might look at attendance. Test scores might play a role. He or she might read a final research paper. In the end, the teacher determines the grade by evaluating your work and comparing it to normal standards of performance. Although not a “student,” Monroe County Community College (MCCC) is about to be graded. MCCC held a kick-off Oct. 9 to begin a two-year long process in which a self-study of its educational achievements and processes will be submitted to the Higher Learning Commission (HLC). The purpose of accreditation? According to the HLC, “The purpose of accreditation is to provide public assurance of

educational quality and institutional integrity.” Accountability is a major part of our society. Almost all of our actions are held accountable at one time or another as Americans. We expect a car we purchase to be of a certain quality and reliability. We teach our children to be responsible, accountable adults. We expect politicians to uphold certain standards of conduct. (Ever heard of the Government Accountability Office? Many corrupt federal programs have met their end due to this watchdog) Colleges and universities must be held to certain standards as well, and the HLC provides this oversight. Most colleges across the Midwest are accredited by the HLC, and this helps provide a unity between the member organizations. Think about this for a minute. A member in Michigan is held to the same standards that a college in Illinois or Minnesota would be.

Season change affects mood By Jen Shadle Staff Writer

Between work and school, the sunshine is making only a small appearance for many of us. Beaches, festivals, and travel are replaced with televisions, sleep, and severe mood changes. Staying active and upbeat through Michigan winter months may take some productivity planning. With the season change, we are left with fewer outdoor options. By developing a regimen, we can make it a point to get out a few times a week to do things we enjoy or spend time with friends. We tend to eat foods that make us sluggish; fresh fruits and healthy alternatives are less available. Small things like ordering pizza or eating leftover turkey may seem comforting, but can negatively affect your mood. College students are also dealing with finals and other end of semester obligations, holiday breaks throw off our sleep schedules, and as people start preparing for holiday shopping, finances can become a concern. “We need to stay as active as possible,” Monroe County Community College psychology major Shawn Brown said. “Winter can be a depressing season, the weather is un-

predictable and because there is less sun, we tire more easily.” While many people get the blues from lack of light, a basic concept to keep in mind is the relationship between what you do, what you think, and how you feel. Stay active, watch your nutrition, socialize, and do not sleep the sunshine away. Shawn Mason, psychology associate at Johns Hopkins Medical Institution, offers us some ways to keep from feeling burned out. “Incorporate your social time with some sort of fitness regimen,” Mason said. “Doing this during the dark hours or at dusk will spare you daylight time. Though not energy efficient, it can help to turn on the lights at home. Sun lamps are often used to reduce the severity of seasonal affective symptoms. Depression is associated with excessive weight gain or loss in a short period of time. If your eating habits change as the season sets in, be mindful that diets also leave you feeling less active. Monitor your sleeping patterns; depression is associated with both excessive sleeping and insomnia. Above all, try to maintain your social relationships with your family and friends. If feeling down or blue for more than two weeks, you may want to consult your doctor.”

A common misconception in the general public is that community colleges provide substandard education to their students. “Raisinville High” was the unfortunate nickname given to MCCC many years ago, and while this comment is not heard as often as it used to, it still to this day conjures up images of MCCC being an extension of high school. How silly. By passing its accreditation process, our college is meeting the same standards of education as other HLC accredited schools such as Washtenaw Community College, Wayne State, and even University of Michigan. Does this mean that our education here at MCCC is exactly the same as at UM or Washtenaw? No. Successful accreditation means that we are performing at a level that is appropriate for a college or university. Campus relations between faculty and administration were strained the past year due to contract negotiations,

but in facing the upcoming challenge of passing accreditation, the tense relations of last year seem like ancient history. Already, according to Dr. David Waggoner, MCCC professor of Chemistry and co-chair of the accreditation steering committee, many faculty members, administration, and other staff are all volunteering time in addition to their regular jobs to make sure we pass the accreditation. Accreditation at MCCC is a huge undertaking involving all of the college. Administrators, faculty, maintenance personnel, and students will all take part in this project. Students, especially, should play a role in this two-year accreditation process. Students that are interested in participating in the accreditation process should contact Dr. Waggoner at (734)385-4276 or Suzanne Wetzel, director of institutional advancement and executive director of the Foundation at MCCC, at (734)-384-4206.

The Agora Staff Members Editor-in-Chief Jeffrey Kodysh

Chief Design Editor Bethany Younglove

Assistant Editor Emily Chandonnet

Design Staff Kelsi Kachar Morgan Sopko Emily Chandonnet Advertising Manager Chriss White Eagle

Chief Copy Editor Patrick Dunn Copy Editing Staff Charlene Hunt Josh Kraus Jen Shadle

The Agora Editorial Policy The Agora is published by the students of Monroe County Community College, 1555 S. Raisinville Rd., Monroe, MI, 48161. The editorial office is located in 202 of the Life Sciences Bldg., (734) 3844186. 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 is 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

Campus News

November 8, 2007

THE AGORA

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Tech seminar explores opportunities By Chrissandra White Eagle Staff Writer

Agora photo by Chrissandra White Eagle

MCCC student McKenna Klemz practices her welding skills.

The number of women pursuing science and technology-related careers is decreasing. According to the National Center for Education Statistics, in 1984 women earned 37 percent of bachelor’s degrees in computer science, but by 2005 that number had fallen to a meager 18.4 percent. Monroe County Community College (MCCC)’s upcoming Women in Technology seminar will offer the experience of a full, hands-on sampling of the varied technological programs being offered at the college. The Industrial and Engineering Technology Division of MCCC is dedicated to providing high-quality technical programs of study and educational opportunities to students seeking advanced skills that will enable them to enter the workforce directly. “My experience at MCCC has been awesome and I am thrilled to be here

as an engineering technology student,” MCCC student Kristie Everett said. MCCC will also offer a full handson sampling of what it is really like to study and work in various technology fields. At this hands-on smorgasbord, participants curious about a range of career fields will have the chance to weld various metals, run state-ofthe-art machine tools, control robots, draw with CAD equipment, and test the strength of steel and program electronic equipment. “There is nothing happening here that requires a 350 lb. professional wrestler’s strength,” MCCC Associate Professor of Welding Technology Andrew Burke said. “Welding is a technological art.” As information technology becomes a commodity in an increasingly global society, what will distinguish America’s performance? Women can, and must, play an important role in the information technology innovation if America is to remain competitive.

“Innovation thrives with a diversity of ideas and input,” The National Center for Women & Information Technology (NCWIT) Web site said. The mission of the NCWIT is to ensure that women are fully represented in the influential world of information technology and computing. “I feel that more women should be in the technology field,” MCCC and Jefferson High School dual enrollment student McKenna Klemz said. “I got into welding because my father and my uncle own a welding business. Although I am the only girl in my Introduction to Welding class, I feel like I am treated as an equal.” The seminar also provides a great opportunity for non-traditional students to explore careers they may not otherwise consider. Those interested are encouraged to stop by anytime between 4:00 p.m. and 8:00 p.m. on Nov. 8 to get a real taste of what a career in technology has to offer.

Faculty propose Boo Bash extravaganza degree change By Josh Kraus Staff Writer

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ossible new changes may be made to Monroe County Community College’s (MCCC) associate degrees, including the addition of a brand new science centered degree. On March 27, MCCC science and mathematics faculty proposed creating a new associate of science degree, as well as renaming the old science degree to an Associate of General Studies degree, at the Curriculum Committee. The main purpose for creating the new degree would be for students planning to transfer into science or mathematics to have the corresponding coursework to pursue further a bachelor’s degree in science or mathematics. Aside from the changes made to the name of the degree, the course requirements themselves also would be changed. To get an Associate of Science degree before, a student was only required to have 8 credit hours of science or mathematics. With the new proposal, students must have 34 credits in science or math. Vinnie Maltese, dean of science and mathematics feels strongly about the possible changes. “There are very few colleges that grant the Associate of Science degree to students completing only 8 credit hours of science and mathematics,” Maltese said. “Currently our Associate of Science has the exact same science/mathematics requirements as our Associate of Arts degree. What then, justifies the name of the degree? This is a general studies degree and not a science degree.”

Maltese feels that with the current Associate of Science degree, students feel they are being taught in science, while they are taking no more science classes than those pursuing other degrees. He also noted that over the years MCCC has been decreasing the amount of required science classes, Maltese thinks they should be doing the opposite, increasing it. Maltese said that the degree changes will not affect students negatively, but will send a message to transfer universities that the student had undergone a strong science-based curriculum. “If we call a degree something it is not, only to make people feel good about it, we have deceived them,” said Maltese. “We have attached words that do not indicate the deeds required of them. I believe we owe our students more than that.” If the proposal is accepted, the new Associate of General Studies degree will have the same requirements as did the old science degree. Although some may feel there is perhaps a negative connotation to a degree with a broad focus, Maltese insists this is not the case. “I strongly endorse [the proposal] and I think it needs to happen,” Associate Professor of Biology and Chemistry, Lori Bean said. “The word science needs to mean something and with the new proposal, I think it does.” “Many [students] do not choose a major until their junior year. This is a general studies degree that is strong and has a name indicative of the deeds performed,” Maltese said. “They are no less than the deeds performed by students earning the other degrees, they are only different.” Currently, the outcome of the proposal is uncertain.

Toni Bean dressed up as a witch for this year’s Boo Bash potluck.

The annual Boo Bash celebration was held in the MCCC cafeteria. Prizes were awarded for the most gruesome dish and most appalling costume.

Lauren Pillarelli and Julie Billmaier pose in their creative costumes.

Photos courtesy of Mark Spenoso

Learn More About EMU’s College of Education Programs at EMU–Monroe! Thursday, Nov. 15 EMU–Monroe Life Sciences Building L112 Monroe County Community College Individual Advising Sessions 9 a.m. to noon / 1 to 3 p.m. To make an appointment call: 734.384.6090 or email: monroe@emich.edu. Group Advising Session 3:30 to 4:30 p.m. No appointment necessary.

www.ce.emich.edu/monroe.html

Agora photo by Morgan Sopko

A feline skeletal model and human head diagrams sit on a shelf in MCCC’s anatomy lab.

ASTERN

MICHIGAN UNIVERSITY

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Feature

THE AGORA

November 8, 2007

Finding photography fulfilling Third in a series spotlighting Monroe County Community College’s non-traditional students By Patrick Dunn Staff Writer

Agora photo by Bethany Younglove

Hot cocoa warms frosty toes

When Connie Palywoda graduated high school, college was not even an option. Her family had moved from Pennsylvania to Michigan so her father could find work in the booming ‘60s auto industry, and her parents simply did not have the necessary finances. “I’m not blaming my parents and I’m not angry at them, but I feel cheated of it,” she said. “When I got out of high school, they told me, ‘We do not have money to send you to college.’” Palywoda attended three months of trade school to become a unit secretary at Wyandotte Hospital (now Henry Ford Wyandotte Hospital), where she worked for 27 years. Eventually becoming “burned out” from that position, she worked a less demanding job at Frank’s Nursery until the company closed in 2004. Unemployed, she began to seek new work, but her plans changed when she read some inspiring words in a Monroe County Community College (MCCC) mailing.

“[The mailing said], ‘Don’t assume, apply,’’ she said. “Don’t assume that you won’t be able to go, don’t assume that you can’t get money, just do it and apply. Those words were what really got me thinking, ‘Just try it. What have you got to lose?’” Palywoda obtained financial aid through a Pell Grant and started classes at MCCC in the 2005 summer semester. Her initial plan was to take classes in the business field, but she became intrigued by MCCC’s course offerings in art. When she began experimenting with a digital camera, positive comments from her family and friends encouraged her to work towards a career as a professional photographer. “If I was in my twenties, maybe I wouldn’t,” Palywoda said of her new career plan. “But I’m this age and I only have this life to live. This time, I’m going to do something that I want.” Palywoda said she photographs anything she can to practice, her favorite subjects being portrait work and animals. She flips through one of her textbooks to find one of her favorite photographs, Dorothea Lange’s famed 1936 portrait of a careworn

By Bethany Younglove

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From the kitchen of Mrs. Bush: Hot Chocolate

6 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder 6 tablespoons sugar pinch of salt 2 1/2 cups milk 2 1/2 cups light cream 1/2 teaspoon vanilla (or more) pinch of cinnamon powder (optional) whipped cream orange zest

1. Mix cocoa, salt, and sugar. 2. Add milk. In medium saucepan over medium heat dissolve mixture. 3. Add light cream, cinnamon, vanilla. Heat to just under boiling. 4. Mix very well and pour into warm mug.

Connie Palywoda takes photographs on the MCCC campus.

Californian migrant mother. “You can still look at it today and it inspires you,” she said. “I really want to do that.” Palywoda’s 17-year-old daughter Karlissa praised her mother’s educational endeavors. “I thought it was a wonderful idea that she would have something to do besides just look for a job at the age she is,” she said. “She had it in her

deep down inside.” Palywoda said she is grateful for the unusual circumstances that prompted her to go to school. “[My daughter] said, ‘It’s like you’re getting a second chance,’” she said. “And I didn’t really think of that, but it’s true. By losing my job, I have a chance to study and be whatever I want to be. A lot of people don’t get that opportunity.”

Sleep deprived achieve energy through advice

Staff Writer

ot chocolate has a long history, coming originally from the Aztecs. The Spaniards brought this delicacy to Spain in the early mid1500s where it became a fashionable drink for the upper class. The Spanish kept it a delicacy secret for nearly 100 years, then became popular with the rest of Europe. Today, nearly everyone can enjoy a mug of hot chocolate and many stores sell hot chocolate powder mixes. Hot chocolate is also a healthier drink choice over red wine and tea according to a study done by Cornell University as it is higher in antioxidants which are proven to fight cancer, heart disease and aging. Though powder mixes are readily available, some believe they do not make the best tasting hot chocolate. “I love hot chocolate,” former Monroe County Community College (MCCC) student Heather Brown said. “Normally I am a coffee person, but sometimes on those cold days when I am all cozied up with my favorite blanket, hot chocolate just hits the spot. The best is when it is actually made on the stove by melting chocolate and adding milk, not with a mix or powder but with chocolate chips. It is so good. It’s perfect right around Halloween because of all the chocolate candy acquired.”

Agora photo by Patrick Dunn

By Morgan Sopko Staff Writer

Agora photo by Kelsi Kachar

Cold months bring winter fashion tips By Kelsi Kachar Staff Writer

With winter approaching and fall being a little too chilly to wander around without a jacket, many college students may be a little stumped on how to stay warm and look fashionable at the same time. For girls, it’s time to pull out two primary accessories for any outfit this winter, and realize the power of Ugg boots together with Northface fleece. With these two accessories, managing to stay warm and looking stylish is easy. This season, Northface fleeces are also very popular for guys. With Ugg boots, there is a style for every personality. From short to tall, the length one prefers will vary. There are even Ugg clogs, which are very popular with men. The most common color seen are the tan or brown Uggs, in both short and tall versions. For girls, it is a popular look to tuck jeans into boots, or just fold the jeans up slightly. A new look on the scene this year is wearing a long sweater and leggings with your Ugg Boots. “I love how I can wear my Uggs with anything at all,” Monroe County Community College student Simone Pezzino said. “Whether I’m dressing casual, dressy or even wearing sweatpants, they complete my outfit no matter what.” Once it is realized how the power of Uggs can satisfy both fashion and warmth expectations, further discovering the popularity of a Northface fleece will be desired, as they are a necessary requirement for any guy or girl. Available in a variety of colors,

any style or color will look good. The most common style this season is the basic zip-up fleece. Guys tend to wear black the most, but keep in mind that countless other colors are available for males. For ladies, there are other styles aside from the zip-up fleece that will be pretty trendy. Simple fleece pullovers are enough on some days, since they are thinner than the zip-up. Ipex Northfaces can also be a good look with any outfit, they are not fleece, but they are just enough to break the wind and keep a person warm. “A new grey Northface Fleece is the first thing at the top of my Christmas list this year,” Pezzino said. For those looking for a more dressy and sophisticated look, tall heeled boots are taking over this year. In black or brown, those dressy boots that go up to the knees are grabbing everyone’s attention. Suede boots are the most popular, though the leather route is not a mistake. These can be worn with jeans or, like the Uggs, with leggings. As far as the heel height goes, the taller the better. The skinnier stiletto heel is more popular than the chunky, thick heel. These boots are striving on the runway and on the streets. So, when struggling to pick out that perfect outfit on one of these cold winter days, wear what you want. Guys, don’t be embarrassed to invest in a pair of Ugg clogs; once it is realized how comfortable and stylish they are living without them will seem hard. Girls, complete that outfit by throwing on a Northface Fleece and stepping into one of the latest pairs of Ugg boots.

Not many college students have time to lay back, relax, and get the right amounts of sleep each evening. So what can students easily and quickly do to try and make up that lack of energy they are missing out on each night? Here are three simple tips that students can use to try and awaken themselves quickly, and to help them sleep better at night when they finally do get to lay down from an intense day of school, work, or whatever life throws at them. 1. Eat Breakfast: It may be a struggle to get out of bed a few minutes early to get a bite before heading off to an early morning class or work, but after all, breakfast is the most important meal of the day. According to about.com, when not eating breakfast it is more likely to become tired throughout the day, and by midmorning the body is feeling low on fuel so most students may grab a cup of coffee or a sugary candy bar for a quick fix. This instant energy can work for a few minutes, but once it wears off the student may be even hungrier and probably crabby. Eating a good breakfast will set a positive tone for the rest of the day. 2. Exercise Regularly: It may be hard to find time in a busy schedule

to dedicate a particular time to working out, but exercise can benefit every part of the body, including the mind. According to kidshealth.org, exercising causes the body to produce endorphins, or chemicals in the body that can help a person feel more peaceful and happy. It may mean getting a few minutes of exercise by arriving to class early and parking across campus to get some walking time in or just taking the stairs steps at a fast pace, two at a time, to help raise the heart rate; exercise will lighten and energize a student in a short period of time. Be careful not to exercise a few hours before sleep; it may cause a few hours of lying in bed. According to kidshealth. org, exercise in the late afternoon or five to six hours before bedtime may actually help a person have a better nights rest. 3. Listen to Music: Music can help raise energy and reduce tension, according to Calm Energy: How People Regulate Mood With Food and Exercise, by Robert E. Thayer, Ph.D., a mood scientist and professor of psychology at California State University. So crank up a favorite song on the radio while on the way to class or work. It can help increase a good mood or rejuvenate your spirit. Although these quick tips may not make up for an entire night’s sleep, they may help give a little boost that can make the difference in a good or bad day.

Agora photo by Morgan Sopko

MCCC student Jessica Janus sleeps as she waits for her class.

Feature

November 8, 2007

Risks shoes

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By Bethany Younglove Staff Writer

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lue, red, tan, white, and black, shoes come in many different colors and a pair can be bought to match any outfit. Tennis shoes, Mary Janes, leather boots, flip-flops and stilettos are only a few of the choices on the store shelves, but are certain shoes a better health choice than others? If you’re looking for a pair of shoes to wear to a fancy event, are black leather stilettos a better alternative than a pair of jeweled flats? “I like to wear [high heels], but I don’t wear them often,” Monroe County Community College student Amber Myers said. “They feel weird because of the arch in the heel.” Flip-flops are a common selection of many people during the summer months, but what do they do to your feet? “Although flip-flops are comfortable and convenient, they do not support the feet for the extensive walking that many do at University of New Mexico,” Beverly Kloeppel, a physician at the Student Health Center, said in an article from the New

Mexico Daily Lobo. “The disadvantages are that they don’t usually provide arch support, no protection for things being dropped, irritations between the toes and fissures along heels.” If flip-flops are not the best choice for footwear health-wise, then how do high heels measure up? “I’ve heard [high heels] help your feet with the arch,” Myers said. Though high heels may be a better choice for arches, they still may be considered a health risk. According to a 1998 article from the Yale-New Haven Hospital, a team of Harvard researchers linked high heels to knee osteoarthritis, a painful, degenerative joint disease characterized by the breakdown of the cartilage surrounding the knee. The study demonstrates that wide heels increase the risk of developing osteoarthritis in the knee as much as, or more than, spindly-heeled stilettos. “Wide-heeled shoes give you the perception of more stability when you’re standing, and they feel comfortable, so women wear them all day long,” Dr. Kerrigan said. “They are better for your feet than stiletto heels, but just as bad for your knees.”

THE AGORA

5

Tips for wearing high heel shoes: • Wear sports or walking shoes, for commuting to and from work, then change into high heels once arriving at the destination. • Limiting the heel height to an inch and a half, and the time spent wearing them (half a day instead of the full day), minimizes wear and tear on your heels and ensures comfort as well. • Foot care for high heels also includes alternating your shoe choice throughout the day or from one day to the next. • Backless high heel shoes force toes to curl as one walks, resulting in straining the muscles if worn over a long period. High heels should be limited to an occasional evening of glamour. • Alternating shoe types from day to day, making sure the max height limit is about 4 cm, goes a long way in preventing foot problems related to high heels. • High heels with a strap or lace over the instep are a better bet than slip-ons, as these prevent the foot from sliding forward and are the “seatbelt” in the shoe. • Exercising calf muscles keeps up a good range of movement. Stretching calf and heel requires one to stand facing a wall with feet hip width apart and slightly bent at the knee. Taking one step forward and using the arms to lean against the wall, the leg in front is bent while the leg behind, straight. Both feet flat on the ground, the person is required to lean in towards the wall, and feel the muscles stretching in the calf and heel. Holding and slowly returning to a standing position with a repetition of five times for each leg, ensures immediate foot care for high heel wearers. Tips courtesy of http://footcare.ygoy.com Agora photo illustration by Bethany Younglove

Cuisine 1300 re-opens By Chrissandra White Eagle Staff Writer

Agora photo by Chrissandra White Eagle

Culinary arts student Jake Bovia puts final touches on entree plates.

Monroe County Community College culinary faculty and students opened Cusine 1300 for the fall semester on Oct. 19, 2007. Cuisine 1300 is open to the public by reservation only and includes continental cuisine at affordable prices. The restaurant is operated by students under the supervision of culinary instructors Chef Kevin Thomas and Chef Vicki LaValle. This course is designed to teach students the art of creating, displaying and exhibiting foods. The course emphasizes artistic presentation and layout of foods from theme buffets served in the Cuisine 1300 restaurant. These popular buffets are open to the public and feature such items as ice carvings, charcuterie products, and classical foods and pastries.

“I was initially attracted to culinary art when I was about ten years old,” Nate Duval said. “And the restaurant gives us [the students] the opportunity to get some real world gourmet experience.” Through daily operations in the Cuisine 1300 restaurant, students learn the various types of dining service appropriate for different food service operations. Students also learn how to serve the public which includes tableside cooking, taking orders, serving food, and cashing out. Students generally rotate through various stations obtaining vital experience and training. As a line cook at a busy Italian bistro in Toledo, Ohio, Jake Bovia is comfortable with the speedy environment. “I really enjoy the high speed of the restaurant,” Bovia said. They receive hands-on experience operating the Cuisine 1300 restaurant

located on the MCCC campus, and also gain experience in banquet operations, catering, and kitchen management. Graduates of this program are prepared to accept jobs as cooks and chefs in hotels, fine dining restaurants, resorts, and institutions. The work is demanding and the hours are long; however job security, promotions, and good salaries reward the energetic worker. “I like the fast pace of the service,” MCCC student Julie Iott said. “The busier it is, the more satisfying it feels.” Cuisine 1300 will be open through Dec. 13, on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays and Fridays with seating at 11:30 a.m. and 11:45 a.m. Reservations are required and can be made by calling (734) 384-4272 between the hours of 9 a.m. and 4 p.m., Monday through Friday.

Reader’s Q:“Do you think local government should do more to help Voice out the homeless?” Name:

Name:

Name:

Name:

Age:

Age:

Age:

Age:

Major:

Major:

Major:

Major:

Ben Collins 19

Computer Programming

“I don’t think the local or county government are doing enough, but the small, local organizations are doing a lot.” Agora photos by Josh Kraus

Gary Knox 22

Communications

“More local organizations should carry the burden, as opposed to the government helping out.”

Josh Stasko 18

Architecture

“Personally, I think we’re doing a good job. I don’t see many [homeless] around, but I guess it could be better.”

Allesha Cutlip 20

Chemistry

“It seems to me that you really don’t see many homeless people around, so judging by that I would say the government is doing a good job.”

6

Community News

THE AGORA

United Way of Monroe unites with MCCC

Walking for warmth Homeless Awareness Week offers information, services By Charlene Hunt Staff Writer

“I

By Krystine Cole Freelance Writer

Monroe County residents are blessed to have two wonderful organizations willing to give back to the community everyday: the United Way of Monroe and Monroe County Community College (MCCC). Both organizations joined forces to raise money for the community. United Way of Monroe’s vision is to “build a stronger Monroe County by mobilizing our communities to improve people’s lives.” United Way of Monroe has helped over 40,000 Monroe County residents. Its programs include helping youth succeed, enriching senior lives, promoting health and independence, supporting people in crisis, and strengthening families. For over twenty years, MCCC has participated in the United Way Campaign. This year, MCCC is attempting to raise $6,600 towards the goal of $85,000 for United Way’s Public Education Campaign. During the month of October, MCCC Human Resources Director Molly McCutchan has been busy organizing fundraising events for the campaign. MCCC faculty and staff have participated in Blue Jean Fridays, a tailgate party, and personal donations. MCCC faculty, staff, and students participated in popcorn sales. “It makes me proud to work with colleagues who are willing to help others who are challenged by life’s circumstances,” MCCC President Dr. David Nixon said. “Each year when the United Way contributions are published, I am proud to see that many MCCC faculty and staff have made a contribution. It’s strictly voluntary of course, and that’s why it’s gratifying to see so many who took the initiative to give back to the community.” Dr. Nixon gave an example of how United Way assists Monroe residents. “One of our former students is alive today as a result of the help she received from the United Way,” he said. “She was diagnosed with breast cancer. She responded to treatment successfully and went on to graduate from MCCC and Eastern Michigan University. “Today, she is a living testament to the services she received from the United Way. Also, she is the director of one of the United Way supported services for cancer patients.” Many MCCC students have positive feelings about the United Way Campaign. “Over the years, the people of Monroe and the United Way have done great things for Monroe County,” MCCC student Tonya Kulczyski said. “It’s wonderful to see MCCC involved with this organization and giving back to support and strengthen individuals in need. I am proud to attend a college and live in a community that shows such spirit, compassion, and openhandedness when it comes to giving.” MCCC’s fundraising efforts ended October 31. However, if you are interested in donating to the United Way of Monroe, you can send your donations to: United Way of Monroe County, 216 North Monroe Street, Monroe, Michigan, 48162, or you can visit the United Way of Monroe website at www.monroeuw.org.

November 8, 2007

Agora photos by Charlene Hunt

Michael Miller (above) sits on his bed of old newspapers. A man sleeps on a park bench with his belongings at his feet. Monroe’s Homeless Awareness Week is Nov. 11-17.

got laid off from a pretty good job, you know, and then I ended up with the wrong group of people,” Michael Miller said. “Now I just mind my business and try to get by.” Miller, who has been homeless for five years, was found sleeping on a pile of newspapers, which he had laid on the ground to keep himself dry. It had rained the previous night. Miller is not alone in his situation, either. Last year Monroe’s Homeless Awareness Week catered to the needs of over 200 local homeless Monroe county residents. This year the Monroe County Network on Homelessness is expecting that number to grow by at least fifty individuals. Monroe’s Homeless Awareness Week will be observed from Nov. 11-17. The event will kick off in Loranger Square at 4pm on Nov. 11 with a Walk for Warmth. The walk is only the first in a series of events that week aimed to assist more than 200 individuals throughout the county. The walk is followed by a formal opening ceremony at Café Classics in downtown Monroe at 5:30pm. “We really want to create awareness that we do have homeless in the community here in Monroe,” United Way Continuum of Care Coordinator Sandie Pierce said. “It might not be people sitting on the street with a cup begging for money all the time, but there are a significant number of folks that can’t afford the cost of rent.” The Monroe County Opportunity Program’s 2007 Point-in-Time Survey showed that 12 families and 109 individuals were completely without a home in Monroe County. According to the survey, this meant that 142

people were either living in a place not considered meant for human habitation or were living in one of few county shelters. However, this study is conducted by workers entering areas where homeless are known to congregate. Cities outside of Monroe are almost untouchable to the survey due to how rural the areas are. There are also a high number of individuals who stay in hotels and other forms of shelter who are at risk or verging on homelessness. Following the kickoff and formal ceremony will be this year’s Project Homeless Connect expo on Wednesday, Nov. 14. The expo takes place at St. Joseph Catholic Church where the homeless may receive gift bags of necessity items, get haircuts, receive flu vaccinations and connect with county assistance agencies. A 6pm community meal is also planned for later that day. According to the 2007 Talking Points document, Monroe County has limited shelter for homeless women without children – there are a limited number of transitional beds at the Family Manor, Paula’s House, and Fairview. In the past, beds in Monroe County’s few shelters are full long before winter strikes, leaving many men, women and families out in the cold. Attendance at community meals is higher than ever before. However, according to Fairview Director Joe Grifka stereotyping is keeping many Monroe residents from acknowledging that there is a high level of need in the area. “No victims of homelessness are perfect,” Grifka said. “The chronic homeless living on the street, while in deep need, are a very small and expensive part of the picture. The average homeless person is an 8-year-old child, someone that defies all assumptions and stereotypes, is innocent, and is simply in a family that needs help.”

Humane Society seeks aid through the season are towels, blankets, dog food, cat food and litter, pet carriers, and toys. The HSMC is also hristmas is coming and for in serious need of cleaning supplies some gift givers, that means such as bleach and trash bags. Monpurchasing a new pet for a etary donations are welcome as well. child, friend, or significant The HSMC has a variety of pets other. The Humane Society of Mon- from newborn kittens, to full-grown roe County (HSMC), located at 833 dogs who have forgotten where they N. Telegraph, has many pets available live. The HSMC urges people to come for adoption. take a look at the animals in need of Adoption is not an homes when looking option for some; many for a new pet for a “People need to make small donations, holiday gift or a new such as the few dollars open their hearts friend. the Humane Society Some animals are and their homes temporarily recieves used ink carshowtridges. to these animals.” cased at local pet During the colder stores. Many people Dani Boling are looking for pupmonths, there is a MCCC Student pies and kittens alone, need to keep these animals not only fed leaving older animals and healthy, but also with good temperawarm. Many of Monroe’s displaced ments and training behind. pets wind up at the Humane Society Monroe County Community Colin need of temporary homes and care- lege student Dani Boling has adopted takers. several animals form HSMC. If searching for a new pet, or look“People need to open their hearts ing for a worthy cause for donation, and their homes to these animals,” the HSMC may be a place to look Boling said. “The older dogs and cats into. available are wonderful pets. Puppies “Now is a crucial time financially,” and kittens are not the only option. HSMC Director Janet O’Brien said. “There is such an overpopulation; “As the overabundance of new pup- the Humane Society does so much pies and kittens winds down, the win- to save these animals. I do my best ter months kick in with high heating to help them by donating regularly, costs. We are a no-kill shelter. Our especially around Christmas and the animals stay until adopted, leaving the colder months. I have adopted many cost of vet care and food.” great animals already and intend to Among the supplies needed to get adopt more in the future.” By Jen Shadle Staff Writer

C

A volunteer (left) holds one of the many dogs up for adoption.

A cat (bottom) stands on three legs while the forth hangs broken in a cast. Agora photos by Jen Shadle

A&E

November 8, 2007

THE AGORA

Daniels to visit MCCC By Jeffrey Kodysh Editor-in-Chief

Monroe County Community College (MCCC) will be hosting one of Michigan’s premier actors and musicians at the Meyer Theater. Jeff Daniels, best known for acting in movies such as Dumb & Dumber and Escanaba in da Moonlight, will instead sing and perform on the guitar Nov. 16. Daniels, after 45 films, still enjoys acting, but is concentrating more on his music. Music, according to Daniels, is a combination of all of the careers that he has worked in over his life. When he walks out on stage, he feels like a combination of an actor, a playwright, and musician all at once. “It’s fun. I just enjoy it. It is the only thing that I do were I walk out and I am completely in control creatively. I am all the glory and the blame when I am out there,” he said. “There is a wonderful freedom in that.” Daniels recently released his second album, Grandfather’s Hat. Born in Georgia but raised in the small town of Chelsea, Michigan, Daniels believes that his Midwestern heritage has been an asset to his suc-

cess as a performing artist. “There is kind of a simplicity and honesty [here] that you do not necessarily see on the coasts,” he said. “There is this kind of no bullshit approach to what you do here. Midwestern people have this work ethic, very blue collar. We know what hard work is.” Daniels, a Central Michigan University (CMU) graduate, offers some advice to MCCC students interested in pursing a musical or acting career. According to Daniels, it does not matter so much what college you attend for acting or music. What matters most is how passionate a performer is about his or her art, and how well you do in the audition. “I was someone who went to CMU and had to sit in the same [audition] room as people that went to Harvard and Julliard in New York and the Royal Academy of Dramatic Arts in London,” he said. “Those guys asked me where I went to school. I said CMU. They said Carnegie Mellon? And I said no, Central Michigan University. There was this silence that went over the waiting room and they tried not to laugh. Well, that audition was for Terms of Endearment, and I got it. The point is that it doesn’t matter wheth-

er you go to community college, or CMU, or University of Michigan. If you went to MCCC and do well on your audition, that’s what they are going to write down on the paper.” What can audiences expect of his upcoming performance at the Meyer Theater? “Only that it will be entertaining.” he said. “If I didn’t entertain

the audience, you know, make them laugh, make them cry, good night, drive safely, if I didn’t do that, then I failed. The show is a lot of fun. People shouldn’t be worried about someone coming out and doing 90 min of very serious, thoughtful please treatme-like-a-rock-star-songs. No, this is different. There is a lot of comedy thrown in, a lot of fun. I enjoy doing it and I look forward to the show.”

Assistant Editor

Cooking a holiday meal is one of the most difficult pastime traditions for a lot of people, yet it is being made easy through the relatively new Food Network. Over the past year, Food Network has grown in popularity across the United States. Last year it presented viewers with hundreds of options to choose from for their Thanksgiving dinner alone. This year they are continuing with a variety of options which will feature on Nov. 22. Even though it might seem a little early to start preparing for Thanksgiving, Food Network suggests otherwise. Food Network recommends a detailed list of tips and tricks, plus a timeline, for a host to use while preparing for an elaborate Thanksgiving Day celebration. However, here are the basics needed for the traditional Thanksgiving Day Dinner. Two weeks ahead of time choose the recipes and assign projects for

helping family members willing to lend a hand. Purchase beverages, both alcoholic and non-alcoholic, non-perishable foods and the frozen turkey or order a fresh bird. The closer it gets to Thanksgiving, the more difficult and expensive it becomes to locate certain items the list. A week beforehand the more hardy vegetables can be picked out, which will make them perfectly ripe by Thanksgiving Day. A few days before Thanksgiving the frozen turkey can be placed in the refrigerator so it can unthaw and cleaning can begin around the house, especially the major chores that take longer than a few minutes. Pies and some side dishes can be prepared and preserved in the refrigerator to eliminate day-of work; mind that these items should be eas-

Staff Writer

Samantha Who? aired on ABC on Oct. 15 and has received a mixture of positive and negative responses from viewers. The show was created by Cecelia Adhern and Donald Todd and can be caught on ABC Monday nights at 9:30pm. The show synopsis revolves around Samantha Newly (Christina Applegate) and her life after waking up from a messy hit-and-run accident that left her in a coma for years. Samantha has no past memory of her family, her job, or why everyone around her seems to hate her. In medical terms, Samantha has retrograde amnesia. This allows her to fully function in the world but leaves her with no personal memories. On the show’s season premiere, viewers caught a glimpse of how Samantha’s family had been dealing with her coma – by milking her sickness into a home video that her mother Regina (Jean Smart) and father (Kevin Dunn) had hoped would win them

a free home makeover. By her bedside from the beginning, Samantha is told that a woman named Dena (Melissa McCarthy) is her best friend. That is, until Sam’s real best friend, Andrea (Jennifer Esposito), exposes Dena as a fraud. The truth is that Dena has not seen or spoken to Samantha since the seventh grade. Conflict arises when Dena seems to be the only one who is truly sincere about

‘Control’

When: Friday, Nov. 16 7:30 pm Where: La-Z-Boy Center, Meyer Theater Cost: Reserved: $30 VIP Seating $40

By Patrick Dunn Staff Writer

Photo Courtesy of Tom Ryder

ily reheated or quickly cooked. Tables and chairs can be set-up and the day before it would be wise to calculate the cooking time for the day-of. Thanksgiving Day preparations depend on the host. Some take on all the responsibilities and elaborately spread out all the trimmings for Thanksgiving, while others assign each guest to bring a dish to pass. Each host will be stressed in their own way, which is where Food Network helps out. Food Network is there for the annual host or for those new homeowners that are attempting it their first time. They provide nearly any recipe imaginable, both traditional and unique. The shows of Food Network also display previews the recipes on

their Web site and will demonstrate each of their special entrees during the week prior to Thanksgiving Day. Special episodes are also featured that will focus on teaching potential chefs on how to make the perfect pie crust or what to glaze a turkey with, inspiring guests go back for second or third helpings. Food Network specializes in making cooking easy and fun yet fabulous and delicious. Viewers have their favorite chef, whether it is the loving mother Paula Deen, the cocky 30 minute woman, Rachel Ray, the BAM! Man himself, Emeril Lagasee or the confident throw-down master, Bobby Flay. Special Thanksgiving Day episodes this year will include Iron Chef America: Thanksgiving Battle, Throw-down with Bobby Flay: Turkey and Stuffing and Dear Food Network: Thanksgiving. Recipes, the TV schedule and more information on how to make the perfect Thanksgiving dinner can be found at www.foodnetwork.com.

‘Samantha Who?’ charms female audience By Morgan Sopko

Corbijn loses

An Evening with Jeff Daniels

Food Network provides holiday help By Emily Chandonnet

7

helping Sam find out who she was and who she would like to become. Samantha struggles to find out what makes her so unlikable to those around her as well as make right the things she has wronged in the past. However, the more she finds out about herself the less she seems to like. Sam quickly finds out that she led a life full of problems, drama and argument. She has not spoken to her par-

Agora illustration by Morgan Sopko

ents in two years, she has to attend Alcoholic’s Anonymous meeting weekly, and she seems to have more enemies than friends. Sam continues to put together pieces from her past, she has to keep looking back at who she was to try and figure out who she wants to be in her future. The script’s sarcastic irony, witty dialogue and mix of great actors and actresses had me hooked within the first five minutes of Samantha Who? This comedic cast is full of my personalize favorites from growing up. Barry Watson in 7th Heaven, Melissa McCarthy in Gilmore Girls, and Jean Smart in Designing Women, are all great actors and actresses. They mesh well together and create a great chemistry that makes watching the show, as well as following it, funny and enjoyable. The only concern I have is that the script writers will run out of material too fast, causing Samantha Who? to be short lived. After all, how many jaw-dropping surprises can one person have in a single lifetime?

Equally well known for his role as vocalist of the acclaimed ‘70s postpunk group Joy Division as for his suicide at age 23, Ian Curtis is the subject of new biopic Control, the feature film debut of director Anton Corbijn. The film stars Sam Riley (24 Hour Party People) as Curtis and Samantha Morton (Sweet and Lowdown, Elizabeth: The Golden Age) as Curtis’s wife Debbie. Although beautifully executed, the film offers little in the way of an original statement on Curtis’s life. Although just breaking into the world of feature film, director Corbijn’s ample experience in musicrelated film and photography is an invaluable asset to Control. He has photographed numerous musicians, notably creating the famous cover photo for U2’s The Joshua Tree, and has directed acclaimed music videos such as Nirvana’s “Heart Shaped Box” and Depeche Mode’s “Personal Jesus.” His passion for Joy Division and their music shows in his extremely faithful screen version of the band and its story. Corbijn’s tendency towards gritty yet beautifully composed black-and-white visuals also comes across in the film, whose greatest strength may be its unforgettable cinematography and visual style. The film is also marked by strong performances, notably that of Riley, undoubtedly a superb choice for the lead role. Riley channels Curtis brilliantly, imitating his onstage quirks and doing a credible impression of Curtis’s vocal style. Morton also creates a genuinely likeable and realistic character in her portrayal of Debbie Curtis. Toby Kebbell’s entertainingly offbeat portrayal of Rob Gretton is a standout among the supporting cast. However, the film’s biggest drawback is its slavish devotion to a neardocumentary portrayal of the rise and fall of Curtis and the band. Riley’s performance is nothing more than a really good impression of Curtis, as are those of the rest of the cast; they’re all just great look-alikes doing good to great imitations of their real-life counterparts. Certainly this tendency to simply re-enact real life with good actors is a problem that plagues most biopics. But the few excellent ones (see Tim Burton’s Ed Wood) are separated from the rest by an ability to transcend their subjects and either make a larger statement or tell us something new about that subject. Despite his excellent technique, Corbijn’s film simply falls into the “good” category for its inability to be anything more than a beautifully shot, well-acted reenactment of historical events.

Spotlight

November 8, 2007

THE AGORA

8

Are you looking for a

JOB? TOP 10: Best Careers

Classifieds

Jobs listed below are from MCCC’s Office of Workforce Development Web site. These are only a select few of the dozens available. To contact the appropriate party in response to one of these ads, contact the Office of Workforce Development at 734-384-4124.

Jr. Estimating and Design Rep.

Health/Dental/Vision/Life/ 401k benefits and more, $21.12 p/hour, Holland area, Full Time Responsible and accountable for operations, maintenance and construction of transmission and distribution facilities. Must have Associate degree or equivalent in engineering field. Knowledge of Nat. Elec. Safety Code.

Extended School Program Director

Pro-rated benefit coverage, $12 p/hour, Monroe area, Part Time Seeking a qualified program director to establish and provide an on-site extended school program of after school childcare. Must meet State of MI program director qualifications found at Michigan.gov/dhs for licensed child care programs.

Windows Desktop/Server Expert $15.00 p/hour, Full Time

Experienced IT consultants needed to serve as Windows Desktop/Server Experts in order to help provide outstanding technical support. Will need a working understanding of MS SQL Server, Exchange, Active Directory, DNS, DHCP, Routing. A familiarity with Apple products and solutions, as well as their integration in varied environments is preferred, but not required. 2 years desired in Technical Support

Bookkeeper Health benefits, $15.00 p/hour, Toledo area, Full Time

Must have experience in AP, QuickBooks, bank rec. and year end financial statement

Store Detective

$9 p/hour, Toledo area, Part Time

Reliable transportation with ability to travel to various locations, work independently with limited supervision, pass a criminal background check and willing to work various hours a must.

Accounting Intern

Required to work our busy season, Part Time or Full Time, which is 40+ hours a week with overtime paid, $19 p/hour CPA’s with 3-5 years experience in public accounting required. Very competitive compensation and benefits package. Needed for months of January through April. Responsible for a wide variety of duties, including, but not limited to: consulting engagements, preparation of individual and business income tax returns, and preparation of financial statements. Required to work our busy season full time schedule, which is 40+ hours a week with overtime paid.

Barista

$7.15 p/hour, Part or Full Time

Prepare espresso-based drinks and food items, operate cash machines, and provide outstanding customer service. Scheduling is very flexible. Mornings, afternoons, and evenings available

Lead Teacher

$9.50 p/hour, Dundee area, Full Time

Must have at least 6 credit hours in early childhood education and some field experience, must work at least 6 hours a day, 5 days a week

Loss Prevention Officer

$8.50-$12.56 p/hour, Part Time, Benefits: Health, Dental, Vision, 401k

Watch for signs of customer and associate theft by use of cameras and floor walking. Assist in medical and other emergencies. Conducts random searches of personal to ensure security of store merchandise. Must possess previous retail loss prevention experience or training in criminal justice. No felony convictions and have a good driving record. Applicants must be available to work all shifts, including days, nights and weekends.

Quality Technician

Wyandotte, Full Time, $13.00 p/hour, Benefits: Medical, Life, Dental, Optical, 401k, paid vacation

Working in an ISO 9001:2000 registered metal stamping and assembly area to perform/maintain in process inspection, product identification and traceability. Maintain control of part specific work instructions, including visual aids. Train employees in the performance of quality functions. Verify and maintain measurement tools. Data collection and entry using MS programs. Also responsible for safety, shipping and receiving

1 2 3 4 5

Software engineer College professor Financial advisor Human resources manager Physician’s assistant

6 7 8 9 10

Market research analyst Computer / IT analyst Real estate appraiser Pharmacist

Psychologist

According to MONEY Magazine and Salary.com

Most Dangerous Jobs Fatality Rate

Job

(per 100,000 workers)

Fishermen Logging workers Aircraft pilots/flight engineers Structural iron and steel workers Refuse & recyclable collectors Farmers/ranchers Electrical power-line workers Truck drivers Agricultural workers Construction laborers

118.4 92.9 66.9 55.6 43.8 41.1 32.7 29.1 23.2 22.7 According to 2005 BLS data

The 10 Best U.S. Cities For Jobs D JOBS 1. Raleigh, NC

2. Phoenix, AZ 3. Jacksonville, FL 4. Orlando, FL 5.Washington, DC 6. Salt Lake City, UT 7. Honolulu, HI 8. Las Vegas, NV 9. Fort Lauderdale, FL 10.Virginia Beach,VA According to salary.com

E C L I N I N G

According to US News & World Report

Career

Cause

Manufacturing:

Overseas production development

-5%

Textile professions:

-36%

Secretaries and clerks:

-36%

Overseas production development Outsourceing to India and China

Processing Photo Industry:

Digital printers and cameras

Radio announcers/ broadcasters:

Loss of analog equipment

-30% -5%

Travel agents:

-6%

Online travel websites