12-9-2003

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AGORA

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MONROE COUNTY COMMUNITY COLLEGE ISSUE 4

December 9, 2003

VOLUME 46

Withdrawal policy awaits approval

By Jeff Berry Reporter

The current withdrawal policy at Monroe County Community College (MCCC) is being amended. The current policy states students may withdraw from a class and receive a ‘W,’ a withdrawal, up to the end of the 12th week of a semester.

After week 12 the student may drop the course with instructor’s approval.The letter ‘W’ is not detrimental to a student’s grade point average.

The new proposal would eliminate the instructor’s option to sign a withdrawal slip after week 12. Although the student must be passing the class after the 12th week for the instructor to approve the withdrawal, some instructors sign the withdrawal slip regardless of the student’s achievement.

Second year student Chris Culter is currently taking advantage of the current policy and withdrawing from his current calculus class.

“It’s working for me now the way it is. It is beneficial to students,” Culter said.

According to MCCC registrar, Paul Schmidt, the current withdrawal policy has to be changed. This is the only college in Michigan, which allows students to drop a class and take

Photo courtesy of Dr. Grace Yackee

Dr. Grace Yackee was nominated as MCCC’s next vice president of instruction on November 21.

Yackee namedVP

by Kelli Massa Page Editor

Agora photo by Bob Oliver

Ashley Rushing adjusts her schedule at the cashier’s office.

a W, after grades are submitted to the registrar and final exams taken.

“It’s an administrative nightmare for my office. After grades are turned in we have to go back and undo everything,” Schmidt said.

Tom Nordstrom, professor of political science and law, is opposed to the change.

“I like the option of letting the student stay until the end. Leave

it to the faculty member to decide to give a W or not,” Nordstrom said. “It doesn’t compromise the credibility of the grading system.”

Schmidt explains that in fall of 2000, 189 W’s were given during weeks 12-15. Out of the 189 students who dropped

see Withdrawal, page 7

Bush signs partial-abortion bill

By Taryn Kapp Assistant Editor

President George Bush signed legislation on Wednesday, Nov. 6 banning the partial-birth abortion procedure.

Jamie Crawford, Monroe County Community College (MCCC) student supports the decision.

“I’m glad Bush is protecting the unborn who are not able to protect themselves. I wonder why it took Bush so long to pass the law, however I believe he banned it for moral reasons and not as a political strategy.

Whatever his motivation is, I’m glad that thousands of children will be saved as a result,” she said.

Similar bills have been proposed since 1995. They were vetoed twice by former President Bill Clinton. Soon after the signing, a federal judge from Nebraska raised the question whether the bill was constitutional.

“I think politicians need to leave the abortion issue alone.

Every time it’s brought up, the constitutionality issue comes into play. It’s a never-ending, predictable cycle. I wouldn’t be surprised if this newly signed bill got shot down,” an anonymous MCCC student said.

Partial abortion was already illegal in 39 states, including Michigan. Also, fewer than 40 clinics in theUnited States performed the procedure.

“The partial birth is very, very rare. Very few clinics perform them anymore,” Dr. J.J. Bourr-oughs, a Monroe doctor, said.

One clinic, the Women’s Health Care Services, P.A. in Wichita, Kansas, reportedly specializes in late term abortions. Dr. George Tiller completes these abortions, and offers a website of information about the procedure, among other things.

However, the clinic was recently contacted. The administrative staff denied performing partial abortions as well as performing them in the past. Further comment was refused, although the website URL was given out.

Creating new programs and courses, coordinating curriculum, and leading faculty members are important issues dealing with the education of every student at Monroe County Community College (MCCC). Those are only a few responsibilities of the vice president of instruction, a position soon to be filled by nominee Dr. Grace Yackee.

Currently, Yackee is an associate dean in academic services at Owens Community College and a part time instructor at University of Toledo. While Yackee’s Ph.D. is in higher education, she holds a bachelor’s in sociology and a master’s in law, society, and inequality.

Proud of her sociology background, she believes it makes her a “people person.”

According to Yackee, Dr. Christa Adams, president of Owens Community College, would describe her as energetic, motivated, knowledgeable, and fair.

If her nomination is approved by the Board of Trustees in January, Yackee will begin her new position on Monday, Feb. 2, 2004.

Dr. David Nixon, MCCC President, set the hiring process in motion for a new Vice President of Instruction upon his arrival in August.

“This is a different process for getting a vice president than we’ve ever done before,” Dr. William McCloskey, dean of humanities and social science at MCCC, said.

55 applications were accepted from all over the nation between mid August and the end of October.

“This is the first vice president we’ve had since I’ve been here [11 years] that has not been internal,” McCloskey said.

Pat Nedry, dean of industrial technology at MCCC, was the only internal applicant.

“When the outside search was announced it was made clear internal candidates were welcome to apply, so I guess that gives you the best of both worlds,” Nedry said.

Although McCloskey feels someone internal would have understood the culture of MCCC better, he hopes this new hiring process will continue to be used.

“I would hate to see us go back to the old way of just automatically going to the inside,” McCloskey said.

On Oct. 24, the President’s Council, containing about 15 faculty, administrators, and support staff, screened the 55 applications. The committee narrowed it down to 10 nominees.

These names were given to Molly McCutchan, human resources director of MCCC, and Lynne Goldsmith, executive assistant to the president and board of trustees. McCutchan and Goldsmith used the evaluations from the committee members and plugged the results into a

see Yackee, page 7

page 2

Opinion

Agora

December 9th 9th,, 2003

Bob Oliver’s Twist

By Jenna K Koc och oc h Guest Columnist

When it comes to most things in life I will fully admit my lackadaisical nature. I do major assignments at the last possible minute. I take shortcuts on everything, I believe not in taking the road less traveled, but in the road that will get me anywhere the quickest with the least amount of work. I gladly admit my general laziness and relaxed attitude. But there is one aspect of life that I do take seriously: the prank, the practical joke, and most importantly the art of petty vandalism.

The most important and celebrated act of petty vandalism that anyone can perform is the old-fashioned Toilet-Papering, or TP-ing, as most of us know it. I have fond memories of gathering up my friends inside one of our cars (or several cars for that matter) with our arsenal of house assault products and heading out for an evening of mayhem.

These random acts of domestic vandalism should not be taken lightly. These are important moments of selfdiscovery that lead to many significant moments of our youth. Honestly, how many of us have a story that starts with, “So there I was with a roll of toilet paper when the lights came on...” We discovered how daring we were. How far we could take the prank, and perhaps, most importantly, how fast we could run.

I always took these outings very seriously. When I was going out for a night of childhood bedlam, it was war. Sometimes it was war on a friend, other times it was on a deserving enemy. But mostly it was just an evening of good oldfashioned bonding between friends and revenge on those who annoyed us that week.

No matter how lightly I take life, how apathetic I may be towards most aspects of the human existence, the strategic battering of anyone’s home is one thing I will always take very seriously. It’s a skill that has been honed throughout the ages, and with that skill comes learning, understanding, and a true feeling of the experience of living.

TP-ing could be the meaning of life.

By Bob Oliver Regular Ranter

There is something wrong with today’s youth. They are vulgar, unmotivated, and lack enough general knowledge for me to be fully satisfied that the country will be in good hands when I’m too old to make a difference.

This apathetic youth is nothing but bad news, especially in a small town like Monroe, where the little monsters can destroy and pillage to their hearts content without fear of repercussions.

My house is in a “good” part of town. I pay bills and know the patrolling deputy by name. Yet every summer it seems my property becomes the spittoon for which this lackadaisical society can unload their hellish vengeance for being born.

Two Sunday’s ago I walked to the street to get my paper, when the sound of a car horn brought my attention to the burgundy New Yorker that was

slowly cruising the street.

Naturally I looked up, expecting to see the smiling face of another tax paying neighbor who would be returning from morning mass.

But to my surprise and astonishment, the sight before my eyes was that of a large white arse with the words “Free Willy” written across it in what looked like pink lipstick. It drove just slow enough so that I couldn’t keep up with it, and you know what? I didn’t even try.

This is certainly not the first time I was the butt of someone’s joke (no pun intended). I have had my house egged, covered w i t h t o i l e t p a p e r, a n d f o u n d various garbage strewn about the yard on many a trash day. I have also had trees uprooted, and automobiles using my lawn like a demolition derby track.

Now, I don’t like to complain.

But there is nothing reasonable or fair about letting these shenanigans continue. If things do not change soon, we could be looking at the apocalypse.

There is a need for neighborhood watches that a c t u a l l y w o r k . We n e e d t o strengthen our grip on our children, meaning we should actually begin paying attention to what they are doing when we aren’t watching them.

I am standing up to this monstrosity and doing my part as a man. Will you help me?

Letter to the Editor ...

Editor...

Garriage is separate, unequal I must say that I was surprised to see an associate professor promoting separatism. Brown vs. the Board of Education should have taught us long ago that separate is not and cannot be equal.

To say that LGBT (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transsexual, and transvestite) people should have a union that is designated with a word other than marriage is to suggest that their union is not equal to marriage. “Garriage” would show as much respect for same sex unions as separate schooling showed for minorities.

Those in power in our country have a bad precedent of keeping outsiders as outsiders – through segregation, persecution, a glass ceiling, and more. U.S. citizens also, though, have a remarkable ability to grow with the times and admit our wrongdoings – thus setting aside precedents akin to precedent of marriages being only for one male, one female relationships that who proposed “garriage” holds so dear. “Precedent” only means that something has been a certain way, not that that particular way is correct or that it should continue to happen. Were that the case, we’d still be part of England, the south

would still have slaves, women wouldn’t be able to show their ankles, and witches would be burned.

People who desire the same opportunities as those that heterosexual’s take for granted do not have to “remind themselves . . . to respect other groups.” I know of no LGBT person who does not respect heterosexual marriages.

Rather, they respect such marriages so much that they desire the opportunity to have such a marriage themselves. Just as black people respected the education white’s received in all white schools and women respected the military opportunities men received in all boys military schools, the LGBT community respects the spiritual, financial, and emotional opportunities granted heterosexuals.

It seems, rather, that many heterosexuals need to remind themselves that marriage is not a union only the elite can have.

Whether or not the associate professor meant to be “criticizing [or] passing moral judgment,” any implementation of his proposal would do just that. Such a separation of heterosexual and LGBT marriages would only further

the allow people to be “unkind or arrogantly superior.”

On a final note, I would also like to remind the associate professor that, most likely, many of his students – and a few of his colleagues – fit into the LGBT category.

Such blatant discrimination creates an incredibly uncomfortable environment for people who are already ostracized by our rural society.

Kim Lindow Adjunct Faculty

The Agora Editorial Policy Mark Bergmooser Adviser 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. The Agora is a member of the Michigan Community College Press Association, the Michigan Press Association, College Media Advisers, the Student Press Law Center, the Community College Journalism Association, and the Michigan Collegiate Press Association.

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Opinion

December 9th 9th,, 2003

Agora

A tension of opposites

By Victoria Schmidt Copy Editor

We will spend most of our lives trying to figure out what we want, and will eventually realize what we thought we wanted wasn’t exactly what we needed. And sometimes what we needed wasn’t exactly what we expected it to be. I would like to relate a story from one of the best books I have ever read; “Tuesdays with Morrie,” by Mitch Albom.

“Life is a series of pulls back and forth. You want to do one thing, but you are bound to do something else. Something hurts and yet you know it shouldn’t.

You take certain things for granted, even when you know you should never take anything for granted.

A tension of opposites like a pull on a rubber band. And most

us live somewhere in the middle,” Morrie Schwarz said.

We live our lives somewhere in the middle, too afraid to make a decision because it might be a bad one, or it might be the wrong one.

“It wouldn’t be a decision if it wasn’t hard,” Tim Dillon, Assistant Professor of English at Monroe County Community College said.

We go back and forth, to and fro, trying to do what is right or what we think is right.

Sometimes it is hard, but no one (at least to my knowledge) ever said this journey was going to be easy.

I find myself in this very position from time to time, mostly in my relationships. Just this past January I ended a relationship with my boyfriend

Ly k ew i s e :

of five years. Immediately after we broke up I started dating another guy. Everyone told me I needed time, I even told myself I needed time. I found that this man was giving of himself, extremely caring, and shared all of his emotions, but I wasn’t prepared to share all of these qualities with him. The time we spent together was great, but I found myself asking the question, “Is this what I really want?” I said I was going to give myself time and yet I did not. I wanted to be happy but was confused. I gave all of myself only to want to take it all back because I was afraid this wasn’t what I wanted. Maybe it wasn’t what I needed right then. And although it was wonderful, it was also scary.

I was trying to form my own identity and find out what I wanted out of life, but was being clouded

by the uncertainty of the decisions and overwhelming emotions I was experiencing.

But isn’t that what life is about? Making that choice and finding out if it was the right one, whatever the situation may be?

Relationships, work, school, family, religion, etc., these all encompass decisions and until we find that our decision doesn’t fit us quite right, we should stick with it and be strong in our own opinions and thoughts. These decisions will shape who we become whether good or bad.

So my advice is to be like the rubber band, let it pull you back and forth, side to side and snap you where it may hurt, but stay strong in what you believe, and you will form an identity that is solely yours, someone you can be proud of.

Student battles depression

By Nathan Lyke Copy Editor I am surrounded by an ocean of words stretching to infinity and I am unable to grasp just one. It’s starting to consume me, this untimely depression. It was easy at first, to be secluded from all the people that I loved, to avoid phone calls, to do whatever it took to keep everyone away, but now it is constantly eating away at my humanity.

No amount of self-inflicted pain can ease this overwhelming sorrow.

As I sit here the sun flows through the window, blanketing my face in pleasurable warmth. I despise this comfort. I don’t deserve it.

All I want to do is sleep. This feeling, with the intention of insanity, is now the only driving force it seems. I cannot come to terms with myself. At times, I wish I could just end it all, but it is far more complex than mere death.

In the movies there are always some underlying truths within a characters loss of faith, loss of love, and loss of will... I wish I was merely an actor here waiting for my opposite to enlighten me and make me whole again. My life is not a movie though. The answers don’t seem to find me quite as easily as they should.

It’s strange how this morbid affliction comes about. The mindset, the symptoms, the i n s a n i t y, a l l h a p p e n s o gradually… once depression has struck, there is no way to turn back.

This “illness” is not the result of one scenario, but r a t h e r, a n u m b e r o f p a i n f u l events that seemed to snowball together. This “trauma,” as I call it, has etched itself into my brain. I fear that my sorrow is permanent.

I suppose everything began with simple self doubts; about my future, my potential, my image, my life…

Soon these thoughts turned into obsessions; I will never be successful enough, I am never good enough, I hate the way I

look… I am unable to find happiness.

How can I be understood by those that are concerned if I cannot even understand myself? Most people make a spectacle of this “dementia,” they flaunt it and seek pity from others. I do not desire this ill-fated attention.

It’s odd to look back to the summer and see how far I’ve come. Entire months of being a complete recluse made me feel as if I would be socially inept once school began. Like an animal being re-released into the wild, I am trying to adjust to the world I once knew. I’ve met so many wonderful people that instill new creativity and optimism into my fragile soul. I’m still uncomfortable, however, and do not feel like I belong… anywhere.

It’s hard to pinpoint this problem with precision. I love interaction, I take joy in being pleasurable, and when I leave my house I usually have a good time… but, for whatever reason I cannot usually will myself to leave my room.

Aside from class two days a week I find myself doing nothing but milling about my bedroom. Even stage acting, my passion, cannot break this spell.

What is to be done when conscience casts us aside?

How does one withstand the tidal waves of emotional discomfort endlessly cascading on our dwindling souls? How can one be helped without mind altering pharmaceuticals or worrying loved ones? If anyone finds the answer, let me know.

Until then I will continue my well versed façade. I will smile contently as I always have, fooling all those who truly care.

And like the actor that I am, I will pretend that all is well until everything gets better. This is the way I am. This is the way it was meant to be.

Slow down, wise up

By Terri McConnaughey Copy Editor Respect is in remission when it comes to traffic in Monroe County. I have lived in Bedford Township for 12 years. I moved here from the suburbs of Detroit.

I have driven in many Wayne County areas. Most of that county is frantic with freeways.

Traffic was always a concern.

The daily community is hindered by thousands of vehicles, yet most everyone obeyed the rules.

I don’t know if it’s because Monroe has a small town atmosphere and people think they have more freedom to ignore rules or what the deal is, but people down here have no traffic etiquette.

I drive one mile to work. I begin by trying to back out of my driveway. This takes about five minutes. I live at a busy section in Lambertville. A new subdivision is planned across from my house. This will only add to the traffic on the two lane road. My road is also a major thorough fair from Telegraph to M-23, which means truck rattling my windows on a constant basis.

This I can take. What ticks me

off is the average Joe’s, or Josephine’s, driving habits.

Most roads here are two lanes, and cars turning left hold up traffic behind them. There may be a hint of a right hand turn lane, but it’s not sufficient to let the person on the opposite side know what is happening. Many times I have been waiting to make a left hand turn, and people will zoom around the car opposite of me on the edge of the road, on the gravel. What is the hurry?

Another thing I noticed is speed. When I lived in more populated area, many drivers exceeded the speed limit on the highway, but when in a residential are, you did the 35-45 MPH – that was the deal. Down here, most roads are 45-50 MPH, and there are houses children and pets on all these roads. No one drives the speed limit. I have been passed by cars going twice the speed I was traveling , making me feel like the Roadrunner just went by.

It is amazing how drivers take chances on uneven roads with curves, farm equipment and blind spots, at speeds of up to 70 MPH. It makes me want to call their mothers. We all need to slow down, and respect our fellow road companions.

page 3

Stop!

Live Life

By Crystal Pierce Editor-in-Chief Stop! Life can overwhelm us at a frantic pace. We spend our days getting things done: working, running, errands, doing homework, housework, etc. The days fly by when we work hard at earning a degree, making a living, or both.

Since life is so full of things that preoccupy us, all things we must do, time often seems to pass so quickly. However, just as life can speed by, time can also seem to suddenly slow down when certain events occur, like losing a loved one.

During times sorrow time can seem as though it is standing still.

I write to beg you to stop for a moment. Life is truly fragile.

Don’t let all the things in life prevent you from calling, visiting, making time to spend with the people you love. Don’t forget to stop and live life today, before the years pass by and you wonder “where did the time go?”

Connect with the people in your life. Even though you’re busy, pick up the phone and call your mother. Even though you should be studying, call your sister. Attempt, everyday, to tell the people you love them or however you feel about them.

We just don’t know what may happen tomorrow.

I think it’s important to strive for balance between all things that we must do must do and things we should do, lest we lose those opportunities and regret what we didn’t have a chance to say or do. I think the lesson to be learned from loss, is to seize the moment that we do have to really live life.

Life is more about the people we encounter than the things that consume our limited time, wasting it while your mother is worrying about you; or your brother, aunt, whoever is missing you; while the niece or cousin yearns for your love and attention; while your spouse or friend is hoping you won’t be late for your dinner date. Maybe you can put off doing those dishes or sending that e-mail.

page 4

Agora

CAMPUS NEWS

December 9, 2003

2004 registration begins Faculty needed in social sciences

By Phillip Koch Page Editor

Winter registration began Nov. 17. Early preparation is needed if Monroe County Community College (MCCC) students plan on being successful in 2004. Many questions concerning registration and tuition plague students this time of year. What is the best strategy when arranging a schedule?

Preparing for the coming semester can be hectic for an already overwhelmed student finishing a fall semester Priority will be given to students scheduling their classes through WebPal or the SMART phone system. Students can access their records through WebPal, as well as register for classes. Enroll with SMART using a touch tone telephone.

Call the SMART phone number, listen for instructions and have the five digit SMART number for the course ready.

Joyce Haver, guidance

Agora photo by Phillip Koch

Nichole Hurst registers using the Smart system.

counselor at MCCC, suggests enrolling early.

“Enrollment is up five percent, and we encourage students to register early. Make sure you register on the date you are allowed to register. It is first come first server. Priority is given to those students who have the highest number of credit hours,” Haver said.

“The best thing a student can do is decide what program they want to go into, get a transfer guide, and then follow that.

Transfer guides are really a contract between MCCC and the four year college or university you want to transfer to,” Haver said.

Valorie Juergens helps the MCCC transfer student prepare for classes at Eastern Michigan University (EMU).

“A lot of students at the community college are education majors, we will have in January both group and one on one advising for the transfer student. Our first group advisory will be Thursday Jan. 22, 3:00 pm to 4:00 pm, and it is for elementary education majors [and secondary education majors]. Group advising is required,” Juergens said.

Information regarding room location for the group/one on one advisory can be found in room L 112, inside the EMU office.

Tuition is due Dec. 15.

Students can pay tuition via telephone with a VISA or Master card. The deferred payment plan allows students to pay for half the tuition on December 15, and the other half

by February 15.

see Classes Classes, page 7

By Taryn Kapp Assistant Editor The Social Sciences division currently has only three full-time faculty members. They are Dr. James DeVries, professor of history and sociology; Tom Nordstrom, professor of political science and business law; and Dr. Joanna Briganti, professor of political science .

Full time positions are replaced according to need.

Computer teachers, for example, are key. Industrial technology, occupational technology, and business are other areas where teachers are desperately needed. Hundreds of students take these classes because they are part of a program. If people are not found to teach these classes, then students cannot finish the program. Sociology is just a course; it is not part of a program.

Money is also a factor.

There has to be enough money

in the budget to hire a full time staff member.

“It’s the most expensive thing we do here, is hire faculty and make sure we hire the best faculty we can,” Bill McCloskey, dean of humanities and social sciences, said.

Sociology courses are in a particularly high demand.

According to McCloskey, around 450 students take Sociology 151 in the fall and winter semesters, and the numbers are expected to grow.

“We need to have a full time faculty member to take charge not only in sociology, but in all the courses that we right now just have adjuncts teaching…I think they do a good job, but some of these larger courses need to have full timers to be a leader,” McCloskey said.

These courses include Marriage and Family, Modern Social Problems, and Juvenile Delinquency.

Campus work SAE prepares race car benefits all

By Jamie Vick Guest Reporter

By Bob Oliver Reporter

After passing a rigorous tech inspection, the team is put through their paces with a design event where engineers from Ford, GM, and Daimler-Chrysler ask members of the team questions about the design intent with the car.

The car is then put onto the track for a timed-distance acceleration event and a skidpad event (the car is run in a figure eight as fast as possible with out spinning out) while other

A 29th place finish is a big accomplishment to surpass, but the Monroe County Community College (MCCC) Every semester, many chapter of the Society of Photos courtesy of SAE students find the necessity for Automotive Engineers (SAE) is MCCC students are working work close to school. Whether to place higher this year. sure going to try. They have because of conflicting hobbies or spent many hours running tests odd class hours, the closer a Agora photo by Bob Oliver to improve the performance of approximately 1 ½ miles, the student could work to the college, Student Assistant Amber their formula style race car. track is full of curves and slaloms the better. For many, this Wilson does homework in the After that even the problem is solved by becoming Cellar. th finishing 29 most seasoned a student assistant. applications in the Financial Aid out of 140 driver fears.

“It’s convenient,” Jessica Office. Work/study applicants r e g i s t e r e d This is a Seidl, a Monroe County are individuals whose pay is teams from all difficult feat for Community College (MCCC) supplied by the federal over the world, all the other student who has worked for government. If no applicants the SAE is schools, but over a year as a student meet the criteria, the job is then getting ready to MCCC is the assistant, said. “[A student can] open to any student who can compete in the only community work a couple hours before and meet the requirements.

2 0 0 3 2 0 0 4 college to after class, and if there are no “Every department has season. participate in customers, study while working. different needs,” Biscorner The this competition I’ve also met many important said. “Assistants can help the international of academic people at the college.” office run smooth, and the competition, power houses.

Student assistants are teachers depend on that help to held at the SAE is usually needed Monday through make their offices run P o n t i a c not only made Friday and work a maximum of smoother.”

Silverdome the up of 20 hours a week. Because of Photo courtesy of Elizabeth Zochowski According to the The SAE crew with their formula style race car. third weekend a u t o m o t i v e the importance of school over MCCC website members go off to the GM of every May, is a chance for students.

There are students work, the college reviews every ( w w w. m o n r o e c c c . e d u ) , applicant’s schedule to create requirements for employment schools from all over the world Technology Center to give a majoring in mathematics, welding, design engineering, and suitable working hours for each include; attending of minimum of to showcase their engineering sales presentation.

The day is ended with an might.

Schools from Australia, a host of other areas. assistant. six credit hours, being enrolled Auto-Cross competition where Japan, Canada, Taiwan, Puerto Jamie Vick and Annie Fritz According to Mary Ann with the Office of Workforce cars race against the clock for Rico, Korea, and the United share the leadership Biscorner, the administrative Development, fill out the points and a position in the final States meet to participate in a responsibilities as president and assistant of workforce event, the Endurance. four day event that covers headcaptain.

SAE meetings are held see Students, development, when a job opens, The Enduro event is 22 laps every Friday at 8:30 a.m. in the to-head racing to design and Workforce Development first page 7 of automotive torture. At automotive lab in W-151. sales presentations. checks the Work/Study

December 9, 2003

FEA TURE FEATURE

Agora

page 5

History hides underground

By Bob Oliver and Gr eta Sc har tner Greta Schar hartner Reporters On October 22, 2003, The Monroe County Historical Society, (MCHS), hosted a luncheon seminar featuring Dr. William Anderson, director of the State of Michigan Department of History, Arts, and Libraries. The seminar was held at Monroe County Community College (MCCC).

The MCHS hopes to “transform Monroe into an international destination through the acquisition and development of the River Raisin Battlefield,” according to Dr. Anderson, as stated at the seminar.

The site of the Battlefield is located on 30 acres of land that houses the now vacant Jefferson Smurfitt paper plant. The location of the decrepit paper plant is located in Frenchtown Township at N. Dixie Highway and E. Elm Avenue.

Metal Upon detection of the entering the property has southeast portion a l r e a d y of the territory, unearthed they learned that artifacts such as there was a musket balls, and village with food buttons from and shelter that militia, civilian, was inhabited by and Indian only a small clothing, number of according to enemy soldiers.

Anderson.

This village was “Fill dirt was c a l l e d brought in to Frenchtown. build the paper “The mill on, explained Historical Dr. James importance of D e Vr i e s , the Battle of professor of River Raisin lies history at not merely in the Agora photo by Crystal Pierce MCCC. “It is Re-enactors of the War of 1812 commemorate the battle itself, but Battle of Frenchtown on Jan. 18,2003. absolutely also in the tragic stunning that there is anything troops defeated and then aftermath,” as stated in the book, there,” he said. DeVries was massacred.

The War of 1812 in the Old also a member of the MCHS. Kentuckians, wanting to Northwest, by Alec R. Gilpin.

One of the most famous reclaim the city of Detroit, The group engaged the and important battles of the War traveled up through the Ohio and British and quickly took control of 1812, the Battle of the Raisin Indiana Territories to attack of the supplies. They set up River saw a force of American British forces in Michigan. camp there and waited for

reinforcements. But before these could come, a large force of British soldiers and Native American warriors struck the village and chased them out.

The Kentuckians tried to flee, but were hunted down through the woods and captured. In the aftermath, the British left the battle sight to help their own wounded and transport prisoners and took station in Brownstown.

The next morning, Jan. 23 1813, the British soldiers left for Brownstown, leaving the village open to the Native Americans, who returned to finish the battle.

The Native Americans pulled the wounded from their beds and executed them. They also ransacked homes for valuables and set fire to many buildings.

In all, over 60 unarmed and wounded Americans were killed.

“It was the largest battle in Michigan history,” Pat Grien, a worker at the River Raisin Battlefield Visitor Center, said.

Santa visits MCCC

By Kelli Massa Page Editor

“Here comes Santa Claus, here comes Santa Claus, right down Santa Claus Lane!”

Monroe County Community College (MCCC) welcomes children and adults to Santa’s Winter Wonderland from December 12 to14 between 5 and 8 p.m. The admission fee is $3 per child and includes a picture with Santa.

“Anybody who believes in Santa should come,” Tom Ryder, fitness activities and c a m p u s community e v e n t s c o o r d i n a t o r, said.

Santa’s W i n t e r Wonderland is located in the Children mail Wonderland. southeast corner of the MCCC campus, near the Tech Buildings.

“Dress appropriately because it is an outside event,” Ryder said.

In Dec. 2002, the Campus Community Events Committee, along with the MCCC Alumni Association and Student Government, sponsored the first annual Santa’s Winter Wonderland. It featured Santa’s

house, a post office, and a tent where snacks were sold.

Ryder said creating an entire Santa’s village over the next few years is the long term goal.

“If you want to have your children experience a North Pole village then this is the place you want to come.”

Ryder took his daughter to see Santa at the mall and was unhappy with the overall experience. He felt there should be a better place in Monroe for children to visit Santa.

Additions for this year include the new and improved Santa’s house and a bigger post office where children can send letters to Santa. A candy store, “north pole,” gazebo, and Santa’s barnyard are some other attractions. Also, a bonfire and a tent will be a few places people can go to warm up.

“There is a lot more involvement for the kids,” Couch said.

Children are not the only ones invited. Couch said parents enjoyed the event, too. For her, it was a reunion with many alumni she knew, and urges more people to come.

“Our plans are to make this thing grow. Each year it will be a little different, a Photo courtesy of Chris Sims little better,” letters to Santa last year at Santa’s Winter Ryder said.

In addition to the Campus Lori Jo Couch, assistant Community Events Committee, professor of English at MCCC MCCC Alumni Association, and and member of MCCC alumni Student Government, many board of directors, agrees there other organizations contributed are not many places for children to the event. Donations were received from Manns Lumber, to see Santa.

“At the mall you just have Lowe’s, DTE Energy, Monroe the opportunity to see Santa and High School, Silver Bells of sit on his lap, here it’s going to Dundee, and Snows Nursery to be like Santa’s village,” Couch help with the construction of Santa’s Village. said.

Agora photo by Kelli Massa

Student Ver onica Ter ts a bell y b utton eronica errr y spor sports belly button piercing and a tatoo.

Modification pierces society than L yk e

By Na Nathan Lyk yke Copy Editor Of all the body modifications out there, piercings and tattoos are becoming more popular among college students. People have started to see this fad isn’t as harmful as it seemed.

“It used to be the oddball kid that had it [piercings/tattoos] done, now it’s not. When I see a tattoo I don’t think anything about it,” Jo Ellen Locher, instructor of English, said.

“People decorate themselves worldwide, whether it is piercings, tattoos, or whatever. Some of these rituals are a way to become part of a group in some cultures. The question I have would be: is this an attempt to carve out a group or be an individual?” Dr. James Devries, professor of history said.

Years ago when body modifications were a new form of rebellion, it was generally people strongly extroverted and opinionated donning these distinct physical markings. It is common to see people from all walks of life with tattoos or piercings.

“It’s a trendy thing,” Locher said, “Four or five years ago if I saw a student with red hair or piercings I would think ‘uh oh,’ but I don’t think you can honestly look at a person and say, ‘that’s going to be an A student’ or ‘that’s going to be a C student’ based on their appearance. You just can’t do that; it simply doesn’t work that way.”

“The things that come into my mind when confronted with [body modification] is hepatitis and things like that,” Devries said, “other than that, I think it’s

see Modification Modification, page 7

page 6

AR TS & ENTER TAINMENT ARTS ENTERT

December 9, 2003

Liner Notes: Tom Waits

By Mike McHone Page Editor He has one of those voices that scream out years of pain, sorrow, love, religion, and gallons of alcohol. He sings as if his life depended on it.

His songs can break your heart, make you laugh, and, knock you out.

Mix the styles of Hank Williams, a drunken Bob Dylan, and Jack Kerouac. Put them in a studio run by Flea from the Red Hot Chili Peppers. Let the music fly, and you might have an idea of what Waits sounds like.

To put it plainly, Waits is to music what Sonny Liston was to boxing.

In his early days, Waits opened up for many diverse acts including Charlie Rich, Frank Zappa, and the Rolling Stones.

At the time, Waits felt adrift, without a niche to cling to, but in hindsight, it’s a testament to his broad sound – blues, rock, experimental, and folk.

His first three albums were met with marginal acceptance and relative album sales. After a bout of depression, hard drinking, insomnia, and low self-

worth, Waits retreated from the limelight, and returned with a clearer vision of his music.

Gone was the folksy balladeer; with the 1976 album “Small Change,” Waits transformed into a pseudo-jazzslinger, trading acoustic guitar for piano, electric bass for upright, tossing poetry out like it was a natural exhale of breath. The result was an album that cemented Waits’ reputation as one of the most enlightened, street-wise songwriters this side of Woody Guthrie and Cole Porter.

Throughout the rest of the ‘70s, Waits turned out more albums in the same “Change” vein. But the songs of lowlife, drinking, dank life-styles, smokey cabarets, and barrooms sung with a tobacco tempered voice kept Waits out of the mainstream.

But this selected appeal helped him in a roundabout way.

Flying below the pop-radar, he was free to do whatever he wanted in his music.

By the early ‘80s, Waits’ sound was altered. Distorted guitar was added. Rock-like drums were in the backbeat.

And Wait’s voice took an even gruffer turn.

Cafe Classics tunes in

By Victoria Schmidt Copy Editor Coffee, comfy chairs, and some downright soulful music is what you are going to get if you visit Café Classics on a weekend. With a mix of entertainers who are guaranteed to show you a good time and a lot of interesting people to talk to, no one is going to leave unhappy.

The entertainment at Café Classics in downtown Monroe located on Front Street is fit for people of all ages, and of all backgrounds.

From artists that play the guitar and break it down acoustically to artists that tickle the ivories on the piano, there is an assortment of musical flavor for everyone.

Te r r y Perkins and accomplished musician John Va s s a r e a d y n a m i c d u o when they get up in front of an audience.

“We enjoy playing here because the crowd is appreciative of our effort to

provide quality music. John has taught me that it is more than just playing notes and chords; it is about feeling each song as you perform it. That is what we try to do with every song, so the audience will feel it too,” Perkins said.

Tim Anteau, the owner of Café Classics, said “I just enjoy having a place where people can just come and relax. Where the coffee is warm and the music is cool.”

Other entertainers at Café Classics include Louie Barnett, a pastor at Eagle’s Nest Community Church, his 21 year old son Jordan Barnett, and a few of Jordan’s friends. Each of them has their own style that they bring into the place. Louie brings a little bit of contemporary Christian and an assorted array of songs. Jordan who is in a band called “The Supernovas,” writes and plays his own music.

One thing is for sure when you visit this little coffee shop; it’s full of spice and everyone needs a little spice in their life.

His first album of the ‘80s, “H e a rt Attack and Vine,” showcased one of his signature songs, “Jersey Girl,” which would later be remade by Bruce Springsteen. Kevin Smith (dir.

“Clerks” and “Dogma”) is also using the song title as the title for his new film, being released in summer of 2004.

Throughout the rest of the ‘80s and early ‘90s, Waits released more and more albums (including “Rain Dogs,” “Frank’s Wild Years,” and the Grammy nominated “Bone Machine”), and began a stable collaboration with the band Primus, appearing on their “Sailing the Seas of Cheese,” “Pork Soda,” and “Antipop” albums. Waits also began appearing in films.

Waits guest starred in the cult classics “Down By Law” and “Mystery Men,” and also turned out a stunning portrayal of the insane and grotesque

vampire servant Nock Renfeild stories behind some his best in Coppola’s 1992 version of known songs (including “Get Behind the Mule,” “What’s He “Dracula.”

1993 saw the release of the stage Building in There,” and musical and accompanying album “Downtown Train”).

“The Black Rider,” where Waits collaborated with German stage director Robert Wilson and legendary see Waits, page 7 Beat writer William S. Burroughs. The production, a modern day fable about a farm boy making a pact with the Devil to win the hand of his one true love, resulted in critical acclaim and afforded Waits’ enough leisure to take some time off and enjoy the following six years with his family.

Waits returned in 1999 with the album “Mule Variations,” and won a Grammy for his efforts. He also appeared on an episode Photo courtesy of officialtomwaits.com of VH1’s “Storytellers,” Tom Waits has had a diverse highlighting and telling the career for more than 30 years.

Pizzeria feeds locals

By Bob Oliver Reporter Though there seems to be a popular belief in society that all the take out food one eats must be re-heated or prepared in a minimum wage assembly line, there is ample evidence to prove that good food can not only be inexpensive, but also enjoyed

Agora photo by Bob Oliver

The Detroit Beach Pizzeria ser ves ever ything fr om seafood to pasta.

while seated in a casual environment.

Monroe is a hotbed of pizza parlors. Without much difficulty, many area residents can probably name 12 pizza servers within 12 miles of each other.

And now that the five-dollar pizza wars are in full swing, the decision to find a nice restaurant to dine at takes a backseat to speed and convenience.

But if it is a nice Italian restaurant that one is in pursuit of, then the Detroit Beach Pizzeria is an excellent choice to appease the savage craving for pasta, salad, and pizza while not breaking the old bank account.

Owned by the Conte family since 1964, the restaurant has held the same location since it first opened.

“I’ve been eating here for years,” Nick Rosner, a Monroe County resident, said. “They’ve definitely got the best pizza that I’ve tasted.”

Rosner is one of many people who live outside the delivery boundaries of the pizzeria, but still make the trip for the good food. He lives in South Rockwood, MI, but doesn’t mind the 30 minute drive.

“There is nothing around Rockwood that even compares with Detroit Beach, so the drive is no big deal,” Rosner said.

Detroit Beach Pizzeria also serves seafood, sandwiches, and “American” dinners like Tbone steak and pork chops.

They are located at 2630 N. Dixie Hwy. and can be reached at (734) 289-3122.

Rock mixes genres

By Jeff Berry Reporter On his new self-titled CD, Kid Rock returns to the roots of rock n’ roll. The new release consists of songs ranging from classic rock n’ roll, to country and blues, done in true Kid Rock fashion.

Rock proves he can do it all, from country to rock n’ roll, mixing many musical genres into one important CD. The opening track “Rock n’ Roll Pain Train” is a rock n’ roll masterpiece consisting of rock n’ roll piano and wailing harmonica that is reminiscent of Bob Seger.

The album includes guest appearances by Sheryl Crow, Hank Williams Jr, and Billy Gibbons (ZZ Top.) Crow lends her angel-of-a-voice to the countryduet country track, “Run Off to L.A.” Kid Rock is a melting pot of all music genres. Remaking the Bad Company classic, “Feel Like Makin’ Love,” Rock breathes new life into a classic and gives the song a Kid Rock twist and truly makes it his own. From the ballads “Cold and Empty” and “Do it for You” to the Blues track “Black Bob,” Kid Rock brings country and blues back into the

mainstream and expands his musical range.

Photo courtesy of www.rollingstone.com

The cover of Kid Rock’s new album, “Kid Rock.”

December 9, 2003

Withdrawal, page 1

classes during that time, zero received an ‘E’. t “The idea that t allowing a ‘W’ when an ‘E’ e really applies effectively d eliminates the failing grade from our grading scale, at least for students who know ‘how to work the system,’” John Schneeg, assistant professor of mechanical engineering technology, said.

Robert Pettit, assistant professor of biological sciences, disagrees since much of the coursework for his anatomy and physiology class occurs in the last few weeks.

“If indeed the issue is that faculty are assigning a

Winter, page 4 Tracy Vogt, financial aid advisor, said “If you are eligible and have applied [in the fall] there’s no need [to apply for the winter].

When scheduling classes, Math Tutor Martha Studnicka suggests, “Taking classes three days a week instead of two days a week.

I also recommend not taking those classes back to back.

Your brain needs to rest so that you can get into the next class,” Studnicka said.

Modification, page 5 a transitional phase, just something a kid goes through.”

These professors had no problem with, and were not influenced by, these choices made by the student.

“I don’t find it [body modifications] attractive, but if others do find it attractive, they should do what makes them happy,” John Holladay, professor of humanities, said.

“It’s wrong for people to be discriminated against in schools and jobs because of

IN THE MIX ‘W’ after the course work is completed then this is an abuse of the spirit of the current policy. If work is completed then the grade achieved should stand and not be changed or substituted with the ‘W,’” Pettit said.

Chairman of the Academic Review committee, D r.

John Holladay, voted in favor of the proposal. He believes the proposed policy would only be reinforcing what faculty should be currently following.

“It’s not the policy that’s t h e p r o b l e m ; i t ’s t h e interpretation of the policy by the faculty. It doesn’t seem like it’s accomplishing its purpose,” Schmidt added.

“Some of the faculty who voted for this change are faculty members who believe that students are hoodwinking them into receiving a W grade through pressure,” Pettit said.

To become policy, the proposal must be approved by President David Nixon and Brunswick, who is expected to give his support. Then it is voted on by the Board of Trustees, who will make the final decision.

“I think students have to take responsibility in terms of their class work,” Lonnie Brunswick, vice president of student and information services, said.

The amended policy, if approved, will take effect in fall 2004.

Jackie Monroe has taken a liking to the humanities classes offered at MCCC. “I really enjoyed Holladay‘s Philosophy … any class Strickland has taught I have had a ball with, I’ve taken every DeVries class … he really covers the subject well, … I really like his dry since of humor,” Monroe said.

There have been classes added to curriculum in 2004 winter semester. Mathematics for allied health (course 125) is designed for students piercings. We are here to educate people. Just because I don’t want my nose pierced doesn’t mean others shouldn’t be permitted to.

My only concern is how you would blow your nose when you had a cold,” Peggy Faunt, administrative assistant to the dean of humanities/social sciences said.

“As your generation shifts into the administrative position I think it will change.

Right now you have all of the old school people that don’t like it,” Locher said.

Maybe one day the people of this nation will reach a common consensus

entering the medical field.

See course description for details. Death, loss, and grief (course 161) is only offered during winter. The class examines the history, psychology, political, and social construction of death.

The class also explores euthanasia and the right to die movement.

History of photography is “still in the construction stage” Bill McCloskey, dean of humanities/social sciences, said. for the world of body modification.

“I agree with John Stuart M i l l ’s v i e w s i n O N L I B E RT Y: We n e e d t o stake out an area of personal freedom, and ‘the sole end for which mankind are warranted, individually or collectively, in interfering with the liberty of action on any of their number, is selfprotection. That the only purpose for which power can be rightfully exercised over any member of a civilized community, against his will, is to prevent harm to others. His own good, either physical or moral, is not a sufficient warrant.”

Students, page 4 appropriate application for the position they find, and attend a mandatory training session to familiarize them with working on campus.

“Interested students should get registered with Workforce Development and keep an eye on the job board,” Biscorner said.

For more information or job listings, check MCCC’s website and the postings on the Job Board in the Admissions Building.

Agora

Yackee, page 1 matrix which gave them the top four candidates.

Nedry was not one of the four finalists, but will continue in his position at MCCC. “I was ready to do the work, but I’m sure whoever was selected will do just fine and I support that person,” he said.

An interview board was established of approximately 20 people, including faculty, administrators, support staff, and the President of Student Government, Aren Willingham.

“It was a big committee, but I think the idea behind it was to get a large group of people involved in it, so that’s not all bad,” McCloskey said.

“I believe the college was adequately represented,” Willingham added.

Nixon made his decision after reviewing evaluations. He announced the final nominee on Friday, Nov. 21.

Yackee plans to bring her strong leadership skills to MCCC. “The vice president of instruction must be able to

Waits, page 6 In 2002 Waits released two albums on the same day.

“Alice” and “Blood Money” are perfect acquisitions to the Tom Waits catalogue, leaving the most hard bitten Waits fan fully satisfied with a double helping of music.

Waits sparsely tours, but when he comes around, no fan should pass it up. Even performance wizard David Bowie has said that people need to see him live. Part musician, part entertainer, poet, stand-up comic, bluesman, jazzmeister,

page 7

resolve issues in a collaborative way,” Nixon said.

“I have a collaborative leadership style. I rely heavily on deans and faculty for input in developing the direction on divisions,” Yackee said.

“There has been some transition in this position for over a year. This will be a busy person,” Nedry said.

Nixon pointed out one of the most important duties for the Vice President of Instruction is assessing student learning outcomes.

“The institution has some work to do with assessment,” Nedry agreed.

Yackee recognizes this responsibility. At Owens Community College, Yackee led over 100 faculty and staff in assessing student learning outcomes.

“She’s been involved in a broad range of activities, including assessment, which I think is very important,” McCloskey said.

“We are not assessing students, we are assessing ourselves,” Yackee said. “Are we providing students with learning?” crooner, performance artist .

He is an endless plethora of sound.

His influence is far reaching. U2, Holly Cole, Metallica, Melissa Ethridge, Mary Chapin Carpenter, Elvis Costello, Rickie Lee Jones, Hootie and the Blowfish, The Ramones, Bette Midler, Bob Seger, Violent Femmes, and Paul Young have all cited him as an inspiring force in their own material.

Anybody interested in good music should pick up a Waits album. Be forewarned – His music isn’t something you merely listen to. It’s something you experience.

page 8

The Agora

Spotlight

December 9, 2003

Actors steal stage

All in the Timing

By David Ives

Directed by Scott McCloskey

Cast Variations on the Death of Trotsky Trotsky........................Ryan Pete Mrs. Trotsky.....Lindsey Fritz Ramon............Jeremy Limbach

The Philadelphia Al.............................Dave Kalman Waitress..........Tana McFarlane Mark.................Jeremy Limbach

Words, Words, Words Milton............................Ryan Pete Swift..........................Nathan Lyke Kafka..........................Jenna Koch

Sure Thing Bill..............................Nathan Lyke Betty.......................Laura Borrelli

The Mystery at Twicknam Vicarage Dexter..........................Jenna Koch Roger...............................Ryan Pete Jeremy.......................Nathan Lyke Sarah......................Sushi Krishnan Mona.........................Laura Borrelli