12-9-2008

Winterize your Automobile

Must-Haves this Christmas Season!

pg 5

Tips that won’t leave you stranded in the cold pg 4

Bowl Games Check out this years BCS Bowls pg 7

GORA A THE

Monroe County Community College

December 9, 2008

Nursing adds more classes Krisitn Stepinski Staff

MCCC is expanding the nursing program after decades of persistence.

Due to an increase in demand for nurses throughout the country, the health division decided to admit a second class of students each year.

“We did this primarily to meet the nursing shortage, which could go easily through 2020-30,” said Dawn Wetmore, MCCC dean of Health Services.

For the winter 2009 semester, 20 students will be added to the program.

Beginning in 2010, 30 students will be added in both fall and winter semesters, bringing the total number of nursing students to 60.

In previous years, 40 students were admitted for the fall semester and a winter class was nonexistent.

The key in adding a second group of students to the program lies with the expansion of classes.

Every class in the nursing program will now be offered in both winter and fall semesters. That means students who may have failed a class in the fall now can take the course again in the winter rather than having to wait an entire year to complete the program.

“We’re excited about taking on this extra class of students. It’s something that the college has not done before,” Wetmore said.

After the 2009-10 school year is completed, the new format will be evaluated to ensure that the college still is able to find the clinical resources needed to continue the program.

To help aid in the transition to a bigger class of students, the health division is adding another full time faculty position.

Vol. 51, Issue 6

I- 75 Film Series

A main factor in expanding the nursing program at MCCC is that the current clinical sites remain available for use in addition to finding more opportunities at other clinical locations.

“We have to be creative, whatever we do we have to make sure that the different student learning outcomes are met,” Wetmore said.

In order to help ease the burden of finding these clinical sites, the college is looking at potentially obtaining a collaborative grant with Mercy Memorial Hospital in order to purchase a human patient simulator.

“It’s like a mannequin on steroids,” said Wetmore.

Instead of waiting for a patient to get sick or to come down with some sort of illness, the simulator can instead be programmed to imitate the symptoms that students are currently studying.

The simulator is pricey at $250,000, but the training it would be able to provide to students is unmatched, Wetmore said.

Nursing programs stress repetition; with a patient simulator a student can repeat various tasks as many times as necessary.

When programs are changed or adjusted in any way, questions often arise. Wetmore wants to assure future students that the nursing program at MCCC will remain as successful, if not more than, it was before the expansion.

“The nursing program is strong.

Expect it to continue that way,” Wetmore said.

“This program did not need a huge fix. We have a strong education program and we have a wonderful faculty. The expansion is a response to the need for nursing around Michigan and the U.S,” she said.

The I-75 Film Series’ mission is not just to locate talent in Monroe, but also to bring talent to Monroe. Turn to page 7 to read more about the I- 75 Film Series.

MCCC opens East side college branch Casey Cheap Staff

There soon could be a new MCCC branch office located in Monroe’s east side neighborhood.

Dubbed “Orchard East,” the new addition to MCCC would be set up in a former Monroe Bank & Trust (MB&T) building on East First Street in the Lincoln Elementary School district.

The idea came from residents worried about what would happen in their neighborhood when the bank closed in February.

Officials at MB&T approached the college looking for ideas to put the building to use.

“Monroe Bank & Trust is pleased to be part of The Learning Bank initiative, which we hope will bring a

variety of organizations together to create an educational outreach center for the Orchard East community in Monroe,” MB&T Senior Vice President of Marketing, Mary Jane Town, said in a press release.

“I knew of a similar case in Grand Rapids,” said MCCC President David Nixon. “The situation was exactly the same, an old bank was converted into a branch office for Grand Rapids Community College.”

Although a small building, the former bank is exactly what MCCC is looking to set up in the Orchard neighborhood, which consists of Monroe’s east side.

“It would make a perfect place for students to drop in,” Nixon said. “But it’s not really a place to go to class, it would be a place to

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get advice on jobs, counseling, and get prepared.”

The idea for the office would be to provide people living in low-income situations to get registered for classes or prepared to take the COMPASS test. It also would help unemployed adults gain a postsecondary education.

“It’s not too big, but is perfect because it has rooms for computers and plenty of parking,” Nixon said.

The Monroe County Library System (MCLS) would also be a factor with its adjacent Navarre Branch.

The library currently has the software to prepare future students to take the COMPASS Test.

“The new branch could also be a drop-in center for those without GEDs,” Nixon said.

The east side of Monroe has been

Feature....................5 Sports......................6 A&E..........................7 Spotlight..................8

Enriching the students across Southeast Michigan

struggling with economic development for years. In it’s heyday, it was one of the most diverse areas of Monroe.

Many immigrants coming to Monroe over a century ago ended up in the neighborhood. But jobs were lost when the old paper mill closed, and the closing of Ford’s Monroe plant is continuing to affect the area.

Small businesses also have not been able to survive in the neighborhood, but a collaborative effort is under way to change that.

Orchard East is one of the top priorities of development in the city of Monroe.

“The east side is what we refer to as a ‘promise zone’,” Nixon said.

According to the U.S. Census Bureau, 50 percent of the neighbor-

hood’s population is living below the poverty line, and 50 percent of college-aged citizens there do not plan on enrolling in some kind of post-secondary education program.

Orchard also has trouble keeping students in school, with just 46.4 percent of persons age 16-19 enrolled, compared to the 82.2 percent statewide average. Only 2.2 percent have acquired a bachelor’s degree, compared to 21.8 for the state.

Other organizations are joining the effort to help the Orchard area.

Besides MB&T and MCCC, Michigan Works and the Monroe County Opportunities Program (MCOP) are also on board.

The Arthur Lesow Community Center has offered to provide janitorial work for the building.

MCOP hopes the new building will help revitalize the entire neighborhood.

“The old saying, ‘it takes a village,’ is really true,” Nixon said.

“This collaborative effort is good because no one really has any money.”

“But Michigan Works has a lot of the funds for this,” he added.

Although a final plan has not been put together, Nixon cited that grant funding would pay for most of the building, and also mentioned the bank would have to do some remodeling before the office reopened — as early as next year.

“We have to show the need,” Nixon said. “And there is a huge need for employment in this area.”

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Visit our website at: www.monroeccc.edu

2 THE AGORA

Editorial

Commercialism: Ruining Christmas Spirit Cassie Kane Staff

Christmas is a time of year for giving, loving and spreading joy.

But has commercialism blanketed the traditional Christmas we once cherished?

Commercialism has been credited with the expansion of Halloween and smaller “Hallmark” holidays such as Sweetest Day. Of course, commercialism has a way of dragging us away from the things that really matter.

From the day after Thanksgiving, right up until Christmas day, people are running in and out of store after store. It seems that no one remembers the true spirit of Christmas.

I have asked several Salvation Army workers outside of major stores such as Wal-Mart, Meijer and JC Penny how their donations are coming along. One standing in front of JC Penny at Westfield Shoppingtown said that from 7 a.m.

to 3 p.m. she had not received more than twenty dollars in loose change from people walking in the stores.

It is sad to see what our communities and advertising companies have been passing off as proper Christmas cheer. The Salvation Army provides families with blankets, shoes, food and those necessary things that most of us take for granted. There are some families that would not be able to have a

Donate:

Ways to give back without feeling guilty and damaging your wallet A penny here, a dollar there, what’s the big deal about giving donations to the Salvation Army bell ringers or the volunteers by street intersections? Well apparently it is a big deal because there are many passer-byers who don’t even share a glance with the volunteers.

Many might think that during the holiday season they are hit up for money everywhere they go; everyone is looking for a hand out. And I would agree with this, except for the fact that I don’t get angry or blow it off.

The winter season brings on many community service and donation opportunities for the simple fact that it is a time where people are supposed to be celebrating the holidays and can’t because finacially.

Even though every store might be asking you to buy a book or a toy to give to a kid or sponsor a family for the holiday season, what they are asking isn’t anything compared to what we spend during our own holiday shopping, let alone during the rest of the year.

The simple fact that people feel bombarded with donation request shows that this is really the only time of the year people give or are asked to give donations.

This fact is sad. When you look at what we spend in a day, a week, or a month in useless items it is ridiculous.

Imagine this. Every time you are thirsty at the college and want a pop,

Emily Chandonnet Editor-in-Chief

take that $1.50 and put it somewhere safe. If you had a pop every schoolday for a week it adds up to $7.50, in a month around $33. Not only is this crazy financially for your wallet, but think about how many times you could have donated money to a cause and gone to the drinking fountain instead.

If every time you saw a Salvation Army bell ringer and you dropped in 50 cents you could make 15 donations which adds up to a weeks worth of pop.

Sometimes people are the big givers, they see a donation box and plop in $10. I say awesome, good for you.

Now you gave your donation and you’re done right?

I’ve been a bell ringer countless number of times and who I hated most were the people that tried to ignore us. I

realized after a while that maybe some of these people give big donations once instead of stopping all the time and I shouldn’t think they are all snubbing me.

But from a bell ringer to a donator don’t feel bad when you don’t donate.

Shoot a glance at the volunteer, tell them thank you and wish them a nice holiday. Most bell ringers will see this as a simple informational hello that says, “I already gave a donation, so I won’t be giving one today, but thank you for volunteering.”

For me, I like to be prepared and am one who feels bad when I don’t donate every time. So here is something I do that is easy for everyone to attempt and not hurt their wallet. I keep a baggie of change in my purse so I don’t have the excuse of not wanting to dig through my purse while out in the cold. Guys, no purse? Just have a pocketful of quarters instead.

So be a donator this season, maybe eliminate unneeded treats from your day and use that money to give to a cause. This is one of the only times a year you are asked to donate if you take what money you give and spread it out to a year’s worth of time your donation seems like petty change.

Be an every time giver or a big giver with a friendly every time hello.

Whatever you do don’t try to sneak by a volunteer because guess what, they see you.

Christmas without this wonderful organization, and the people who donate.

How can people walk by a Salvation Army bell-ringer and not drop in the loose change they have in their pocket? How about a couple dollars?

Commercialism has taught people to horde their money to buy that three hundred dollar radio for their boyfriend.

“Buying hundreds of dollars worth of presents for your family is better than giving a measly five dollars to the Salvation Army” is what big stores and advertising corporations seem to be saying.

Every year my grandpa has asked his grandchildren that instead of getting him presents, donate money to the Salvation Army.

My family has always taught me that it’s not how big or how expensive a present is, it is the thought that counts. These days it’s all about giving the best presents and the most expensive gadgets. Christmas is supposed to be about helping people less fortunate than you and putting a smile on someone’s face.

December 9, 2008

Commercialism has spoiled those good intentions which we were taught as children. It appears to me that ‘good will’ has evaporated over the past several years. With each new generation, commercialism has sucked up the holiday spirit and turned it into shopping madness.

It is the same when it comes to Christmas decorations. A star atop a Christmas tree, or a few strings of lights around a door frame used to be more than enough to make any home look dressed up for the holidays. Now, Christmas decorating has become the new winter sport. People seem to be competing with their neighbors to see who has the best holiday ‘spirit’ based on lights and bulbs. It’s ridiculous.

The movie, Deck the Halls (2006) is a perfect example of how competition can ruin the holiday spirit and destroy the good will Christmas is supposed to represent. Holiday spirit is not about being the family with the most lit-up house on the block, or being the one buying the best gifts.

Holiday spirit is about coming together, not just as a family, but as a whole world, and bringing hope to those who need it most.

When Christmas comes to my

mind, I think of Christmas dinner, spending time with my family, and playing out in the snow. Commercialism has led people to think of presents, lights, and shinny ornaments instead.

Commercialism is driving nails into the true meaning of Christmas and causing people to forget what Christmas meant to them when they were little. I know that I may have had a few greedy moments when I was a kid, but I would always try to get my grandparents something. It could have been the smallest item, a keychain maybe, but my grandparents loved it because I picked it out for them.

It is the thought that counts. It doesn’t matter how expensive your presents are, nor how big or hard to get. All that matters this holiday season is spreading cheer and good will to others; letting people know that you care, even in the smallest or most inexpensive way.

I hope this year we can try to stop commercialism from ruining Christmas spirit any further. Be grateful for the Christmases you have been fortunate to have and try to spare a little change for those who really need it this holiday season.

WINTER SEMESTER CLASSES BEGIN FRIDAY, JANUARY 9, 2009 Holiday appreciation underated Another holiday season is getting underway with the passing of Turkey Day, and the only thought barreling through my brain is how I never am more annoyed with stupidity than this time of year.

There is absolutely nothing more sickening than silver spooned, spoiled rotten adolescents giving forth their Christmas lists.

They never sound like lists though, more like ransom demands in a hostage situation. And dare not some parents grant all the demands on the list, for some have called it the second coming of the dark prince.

Or maybe you have the family that resides at your home for weeks before the actual deadline of December 25, something out of a National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation.

Whatever your holiday season consists of it should always be something that is appreciated and never taken for granted.

Michael Crossman Staff

I don’t mean taken for granted like you think about it and then still complain about the same B.S. this year that happened last year.

Actually stop your selfish indulgence with gifts and gags of sort and look outside your little box to picture a different holiday scenario.

Imagine your weeks are being spent on permanent vacation in a sun-bathed desert.

You feast on the slop of a chow hall in a dome tent, shower in the sand, and the only Christmas wishes are survival and a 90 degree night to sleep in.

These are men and women, most of them with children of their own, who do not have the choice of making plans for the Christmas holiday.

They get no Christmas tree, eggnog, or mistletoe. They won’t enjoy their children’s delight from the new Wii system, or the meal that their loved ones will pray over to keep them safe.

Instead America’s proud youth sit at home still in their one piece ‘footsie’ pajamas and complain about their have not’s.

This is the generation that is going to be embracing this “change” in our country. Maybe they should start by revising their lists of demands they have into a self checklist for what they do have and are thankful for.

Christmas spirit banned from workplace Seeing decorations in stores always fills the atmosphere with the spirit of Christmas.

Walking into most stores, retailers, and even food places this year you will notice that they are no longer decorated on the inside.

Over the past couple year’s stores and retailers were getting complaints about Christmas decorations when the customers themselves didn’t celebrate the holiday.

So in order to fix the problem, corporatations banned decorations in the workplace.

I personally work in retail and believe that this rule is very unnecessary. The decorations put the customers and employees in the mood and spirit for Christmas.

Now that we don’t have decorations up, it seems like the customers get more and more irritable.

Jennifer Niswender Assistant Editor

When I am in the store it just doesn’t feel like the spirit of Christmas.

Most people get in the spirit of Christmas when seeing decorations and hearing Christmas music.

FREE STUDENT ADVERTISING! Need to sell your books, looking for a roommate, or want to teach music lessons but don’t know how to get the word out? Send your Ad to agora@monroecc. or drop it off at room L 202.

You can design it or we can, just give us the info and we will put it in an Agora issue.

Questions? Call 384-4186 or email us at agora@monroeccc.edu

Although corporate hasn’t taken away the Christmas music, putting up decorations that aren’t on sale is prohibited.

“Putting up decorations offended some people who don’t celebrate the holiday season,” said Meijer customer service manager Cindy Rishe, “so we were told to no longer set up decorations.”

Even telling customers ‘Merry Christmas’ during or after a purchase is not allowed.

“We actually had a customer call in last year complaining that her cashier told her to ‘have a Merry Christmas’ and she was really upset and offended because she doesn’t celebrate the holiday,” Rishe said.

So this holiday season employees and cashiers are urged to tell there customers to “have a happy holiday” instead.

This is also very unnecessary because how are employees and cashiers supposed to know, out of the hundreds of customers they see a day, who celebrates Christmas and who doesn’t.

Customers just need to understand that the employees don’t know everything and can’t read minds.

So when an employee says something that offends you, you have to understand that they don’t know any better.

Just simply say “thank you” and shrug it off.

People these days don’t have anything better to do but complain about every little thing.

Hopefully in the future corporate will reconsider its decision and so will many other stores, so that Christmas can feel like it did when you were just a young child again.

The Agora Staff Members Editor-in-Chief Emily Chandonnet Assistant Editor Jennifer Niswender Adviser Dan Shaw

Staff Michael Crossman Casey Cheap Cassie Kane Miranda Panik Steven Sonoras Kristin Stepinski Andrew Thurlow

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) 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 edi-

tor 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 studentmanaged 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 Com-

munity College Journalism Association, College Media Advisers, Associated Collegiate Press and the Student Press Law Center.

Story suggestions are welcome. Let us know what you’d like to see in The Agora - it’s your newspaper. Submissions of stories or photos alsoare welcome. E-mail them to Agora@monroeccc. edu or bring them to ouroffice.

Dan Shaw, Adviser

December 9, 2008

Let’s talk trash Keeping our campus clean with minor tasks I feel like I may be taking on an unpopular opinion here.

But the issue of garbage being strewn all over campus has gotten out of hand recently. I mean, I don’t know about you, but being taught to not litter was something I learned in preschool. It’s right up there with 2+2 and how to tie your shoes.

No, the world is not your trashcan, students.

I know what you’re thinking. How preachy of you, Mr. Cheap. Where do you get off stating that?

Yeah, we know the reasons not to litter. Blah, blah, blah, something about seagulls choking on plastic, right?

Well, stupid animals are part of the reason. But for those who care about the environment—

Casey Cheap Agora Staff

that is—not an environmentalist wacko, but someone who would hate to see used motor oil dumped into our drinking water, there are several other reasons not to litter.

Granted, the situation here at MCCC is not quite that bad, but one would be surprised.

The thing that most boggles my mind is why students would carelessly dump their garbage at the same learning institution in which they pay tuition?

Personally, I think Monroe has a relatively nice campus here at MCCC compared to the run-down buildings at Eastern Michigan University or other community colleges across the state. To think visitors at our college would get the impres-

Editorial

sion that students at MCCC are animals, is embarrassing and shameful.

But I’m aware it’s not always the student body’s fault when it comes to the trash situation.

Sometimes, especially when students are in the parking lot, there are absolutely no areas to throw away their trash. In order to cut down on such a problem, MCCC could simply install some sort of garbage receptacles on the street lights out in the parking lot.

I’m not a maintenance expert, but I think such minor adjustment could cut down on garbage in the parking lot.

It would also be nice to see a trash bin or two between some of the buildings. That obscure walk from H Building to L Building and beyond will sometimes allow students the opportunity to discard that Twinkie wrapper right on the campus lawn.

Hopefully, students will think twice about the condition of their campus from now on. Just think.

By simply walking to a trashcan and disposing of your garbage where it belongs, you will be saving MCCC’s maintenance crew the time and effort it takes to clean up after you slobs.

Avery suspended six games

by Bettman

Dan Shaw

Agora Adviser Journalism in the 21st century isn’t about printing words on paper or broadcasting on the evening news.

It’s about reporting the news in any and all media, from web sites to podcasts, blogs to twitters, e-zines to videocasts and multi-media slide shows to text messages – along with traditional media like newspapers and TV. The Agora has been around as a student-operated newspaper since 1968. It’s a great learning tool for journalism students, and a valuable part of campus life.

But it’s time The Agora moved into the 21st century, too.

To make its move to the Internet, The Agora is looking for two to four Web design and/or graphic design students to join the staff for the Winter 2009 semester.

Staff

Former Red Wing Sean Avery is not your typical hockey player.

Whether it’s playing with dolls as a kid or collecting purses as an adult, Avery’s unusual personality may make a statement in the fashion world, but to the NHL he’s just another agitator.

Last week, after an early skate in Calgary, the Dallas Stars leftwinger opened his mouth to reporters about his former girlfriend Elisha Cuthbert and her new romance with Calgary’s defense-

Photo courtesy of Getty Images

3

Agora searching for new web design students

Andrew Thurlow

Sean Avery, suspended six games “crossing the line” to seek anger management evaluation.

THE AGORA

They will get three credits for the Agora class, but more important they will be able to tell their grandchildren – and prospective employers – that they designed their college’s first student Web site.

The regular journalism prerequisites will be waived for the Web and graphic design students, and they will become part of the student team that produces The Agora.

They also will have a chance to design graphics for the print version of The Agora. But their primary task will be developing a multi-dimensional, interactive, Web. 2.0 site.

The goal will be to launch the new Web site in time for the fall semester of 2009. Jennifer Niswender, assistant editor of The Agora this year and next year’s editor, will have overall responsibility for the Web site as well as the newspaper.

“The Agora is a lot of fun and a great experience for anyone looking to go into journalism or design,” Jennifer says. “The atmosphere on staff makes everyone feel like a family.

“When we have a Web site for The Agora, it will be another way for the staff members to get noticed for the work they accom-

plish.”

Plans are under way to create a Web editor position beginning in the fall of 2009, possibly with a scholarship, to ensure that there will be a Web design student available to keep the site updated.

It will be an exciting time for the students involved with The Agora – both the journalists and the Web/graphic designers.

Journalism students will be able to practice their craft on the cutting edge, writing breaking news for the Internet, blogging, leading discussion groups and creating audio, video, multimedia, etc.

All that may not happen the first year, but it’s the direction that journalism is heading and the right direction for The Agora.

Web design students will be able to develop their skills on a live, dynamic and interactive site – a great addition to their current classroom experiences.

Up to four Web or graphic design students will be accepted on The Agora staff for winter semester. Students who are interested should contact Lana Shryock, professor of Computer Information Systems, or Dan Shaw, assistant professor of Journalism and Humanities.

men Dion Phaneuf, when he said.

"I just want to comment on how it's become like a common thing in the NHL for guys to fall in love with my sloppy seconds."

Avery also dated Rachel Hunter, the former Sports Illustrated swimsuit cover model and actress who is now the girlfriend of Los Angeles Kings center Jarrett Stoll.

It didn’t take long for Avery’s comment to reach Commissioner Gary Bettman, who immediately suspended Avery indefinitely. "(Avery’s behavior) it’s detrimental to the league or game of hockey," Bettman said in a statement to the Associated Press.

Avery, who is already known for his inventive and now illegal goalie face guarding techniques and provocative showmanship on and off the ice, was suspended for six games and agreed to be evaluated for anger management before returning to the ice.

I believe the NHL commissioner was right to suspend Avery, who’s considered to be a childish ego-manaic by teammates and opponents alike, but six games is far more than a reasonable punish-

ment.

Immaturity isn’t a crime. Besides, these are hockey players we’re talking about, professional athletes who are cheered and encouraged to challenge one another on the ice with their fists and sticks. And now the NHL is going to suspend one of them for six games because of a tasteless statement?

I’m sorry, but this is ridicules.

Other players have received only a few game suspensions for hurting players with violence that was beyond acceptable and borderline criminal assault, so how can you equate that with being overly suggestive?

"I wanted it to be clear to the fans that this isn't something that we tolerate — particularly fans with children who might have to explain to them what this statement was," Bettman said.

Apparently two minutes of stand up ice boxing is easier to condone to your child than a 10 second reprehensible statement.

Apparently a lack of decency in this league is far worse than being psychotic.

Campus News

STITCHES PROJECT DISPLAY

Stories of women living with HIV and AIDS “If your doll could talk, what would she say?”

Wednesday Jan. 28

Whitman Center

12:30-1:30pm

Room 9

Healthy and Real Food for Busy People

Join registered dietician Dr. Debra Boardley Feb. 23 for a fresh perspective on dieting.

4 THE AGORA

Feature

Winterize 25 Your Car Top

Miranda Panik Staff

Don’t let unpredictable Michigan weather leave you feeling left in the cold when it comes to taking care of your car. Laura Coffey, a writer for MSNBC.com, has offered a few tips on how to winterize your automobile.

Winter is a dangerous season for driving. Using these tips can help you be as safe as possible in unpredictable weather conditions.

One

Get right kind of Oil Change

Every 30,000 miles, you should have a full service done on your car. Also, when getting your oil changed in the winter, check your owner’s manual to make sure you’re using oil with the right viscosity.

Oil thickens in the winter, and the thicker it is, the less it can lubricate the engine.

Two

Check your wiper blades

Windshield wipers are generally good for about a year. Ice buildup on your windshield only adds to the damage done to them. Make sure to check them before the first big snow storm of the season so you can see clearly out your windshield.

Four

Three

Examine belts and hoses

Check your Battery Winter is the perfect time of year to make sure your battery’s posts and connections are corrosion free. If your car is more than three years old, take it to a certified repair shop to test your battery and make sure it can hold a charge.

Five

Keep an eye on tire pressure

The next time you stop in for an oil change, make sure the mechanic checks the belts and hoses. Cold weather can do a number on them, so you want to make sure there is no wear and tare that could cost you in the long run.

In order to make sure you are getting optimal traction on snow and ice, you have to keep your tires at the right pressure. The general rule for winter is that your car will lose one pound per square inch every time the temperature drops by ten degrees.

The ratio of coolant to water in the radiator should be 50-50. You can buy an anti-freeze tester at any auto parts store.

If the mixture is off, you will have to have the radiator flushed and refilled.

Know what to do if you get stranded

Prepare first aid & emergency kit

This includes having extra gloves, an extra set of warm clothes, boots, a blanket, a small shovel, food (such as hard candy), water, flares, paper towels, a first aid kit, windshield wipers, an ice scraper, a flashlight, and a bag of abrasive material in case your car gets stuck in snow.

Steve Sonoras Staff

Christmas on Mars is ho, ho, horrible.

Every family has its favorite Christmas movie. Some grab the kids and gather ‘round the tube to watch How The Grinch Stole Christmas; others slam eggnog and chuckle along to National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation.

Still others binge on sugar cookies and gumdrops to stay up for 24 hours to watch TNT’s annual A Christmas Story marathon. But there has never really been a Christmas movie for the acid freak, the stoner, the drunk, or the

Check your anti-freeze

Eight

Seven

Christmas on Mars

Six

Stay close to your car unless you are 100 percent positive of where you are and how close you are from help. Suck on a hard candy so your mouth doesn’t dry. Put on the extra warm clothes from your emergency kit. Run your car for ten minutes every hour that you are stranded, and keep the window slightly cracked so that the snow doesn’t seal your car shut.

punk rocker (unless you count Santa Claus Conquers the Martians).

Oklahoma’s rock superstars The Flaming Lips spent nearly 8 years under the direction of band leader Wayne Coyne to produce just that a trippy transmission from outer space meant to bring Yuletide cheer to the warped child in all of us.

Needless to say, Christmas on Mars isn’t exactly your typical Christmas flick.

The movie, shot mostly in Coyne’s backyard on a shoestring budget, follows a group of astronauts (two of which are played by the Lip’s Steven Drozd and Michael Ivins) during Christmastime on a Mars colony.

Danger begins to brew when the oxygen generator and gravity control pod begin to malfunction. Amidst the chaos we are haunted by hallucinations of the birthing of a baby, a “secret Santa” suicide, surreal sexual imagery, and hallucinatory splashes of wild color.

Things only get more bizarre as the film proceeds. Soon, a benevolent martian (Wayne Coyne) appears to inspire the crew--but only after passing through a giant star cluster in the shape of a naked woman.

From here on, what little plot exists becomes nearly impossible to follow. Though its direction is somewhat inventive and unique

despite the obvious financial handicap, Christmas on Mars is plagued with pathetic acting, amateurish writing, a practically non-existent score, and worst of all: it’s boring.

Allegedly Elijah Wood (Lord of the Rings) and Isaac Brock (leader of Modest Mouse) shot cameos for the film. Their appearances would have undoubtedly spiced up the lackluster performances populating Mars. Hilarious appearances

by Fred Armisen (Saturday Night Live) and Adam Goldberg (Dazed and Confused) act as temporary life-support, but soon after they flee the screen we’re left lost in space.

Only Claus himself knows how The Flaming Lips--known for their persistent energy, overall wackiness and abundant cheer-managed to produce such a trite piece of celluloid. Christmas on Mars is lacking not only in holiday spirit, but also in humor: the substance that has garnered The Lips such a mass of adoring fans for over the last two decades.

My advice? Christmas on Mars makes a better Yule log than a holiday film, and one might find bearing its mere 82 minutes more sadistic than an entire A Christmas Story marathon.

December 9, 2008

1

The Christmas Song Nat King Cole

2

A Holly Jolly Christmas Burl Ives

3 Holiday Where Are You Christmas?

Faith Hill 4 Jingles All I Want For Christmas 5 Mariah Carey Happy Xmas (War is Over) John Lenon and Yoko Ono

Surveys complied by Cassie Kane

6. Let It Snow, Let It Snow, Let It Snow - Dean Martin 7. Last Christmas - Wham!

8. The Little St. Nick - The Beach Boys 9. Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree - Brenda Lee 10. Don’t Save It All For Christmas Day - Celine Dion 11. Run, Run, Rudolph - Chuck Berry 12. Feliz Navidad - Jose Feliciano 13. Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas - Frank Sinatra 14. It’s The Most Wonderful Time of the Year - Andy Williams 15. Santa Baby - Madonna

16. Do They Know It’s Christmas?

(Feed the World) - Band Aid 17. The First Noel - *Nsync 18. All I Want Is You This Christmas - *Nsync 19. You’re A Mean One, Mr. Grinch - Albert Hague 20. Chipmunk Song - Chipmunks and Dave Seville 21. Grandma Got Run Over By A Reindeer - Country Chorale 22. Rudolph The Red-Nosed Reindeer - The Countdown Kids, or Gene Autry 23. Jingle Bell Rock - Bobby Helms 24. White Christmas - Bing Crosby 25. Here Comes Santa Claus - Elvis Presley

Top 15 Holiday flicks to view 1 3 4 5 2 National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation (1989)

Elf (2003)

It’s A Wonderful Life (1946)

6. Home Alone (1990) 7. A Christmas Story (1983) 8. Joyeux Noel (2006) 9. White Christmas (1954) 10. How The Grinch Stole Christmas (‘66, ‘03)

The Nightmare Before Christmas (1993)

Miracle on 34th Street (1947)

11. The Preacher’s Wife (1996) 12. A Muppet Christmas Carol (1992) 13. A Charlie Brown Christmas (1965) 14. The Santa Claus (1994) 15. Bad Santa (2003)

recommeneded for over break...

Nov 26

Dec 12

Dec 26

Four Christmases Australia

The Day the Earth Stood Still Nothing like the Holidays Seven Pounds

Frost/Nixon Bedtime Stories Marley & Me Last Chance Harvey Valkyrie

Dec 6

Cadillac Records

Dec 19 The Tale of Despereaux Yes Man

HURRY...Soldier Mail As we prepare for the upcoming Holiday Season think of our Soldier’s who will be away from family and friends in a different world fighting for America. Think of the soldiers recovering from injuries during their recent tour. A card and/or letter can make a solider feel at home, and through your words break away from their surroundings.

Below are a few places to send a card or letter, but the deadline is Dec. 10, so hurry to spread the joy of the Holiday and make a solider feel at home!

A Recivering American Soldier

Holiday Mail for Heroes

c/o Walter Reed Army Medical Center

P.O. Box 5456

6900 Georgia Ave NW Washington, D.C. 20307-5001

Capital Heights, MD 20791-5456

December 9, 2008

Feature

THE AGORA

5

Mom & Dad

Shopping for your parents can sometimes be a drag. When you ask them what they want, all they say is, “Oh sweetie, you don’t have to get me anything.” Deep down inside, however, you know you have to.

If you’re stumped this Christmas season, here are some ideas that just might help make your shopping experience easier.

Perfect Presents

1 2 3 5

It seems everyone this year wants a navigation system. Either for going on vacations, or simply to help them from getting lost. Some of them even tell you where your favorite restaurants are. Most popular systems are the Tom Tom, Garmin, and Magellan. There are great deals running on GPS systems all through Christmas.

Digital Cameras With everything going digital now-adays, one of the best gifts to give is a digital camera. Everyone can use a digital camera even if you aren’t a big picture taker.

They are small, portable and easy to use. They produce great pictures and is a good way to capture that picture perfect moment.

match.

Hygiene products make great gifts too. Get mom her favorite perfume, lotion, or even bath buds.

You can also get dad some of his favorite cologne or after-shave.

Who doesn’t like smelling good?

Gifts of 2008

GPS Navigation Systems

Gifts cards for the two to their favorite restaurant make a great gift, too.

It gives them time away from work and the kids so that they can have some time to themselves.

What dad doesn’t love tools? A tool kit is something your dad would love.

Assistant Editor

The Apple iPhone was released by Apple in July 2008, and is becoming one of the most-wanted Christmas gifts. An internet-connected multimedia smartphone, it features a flush multi-touch screen and minimal hardware interface.

Apart from being a camera phone, it serves as a portable music player and a mini laptop.

Purses are a women’s best friend. What’s better than getting mom a brand new purse? If you really want to go all out, get her a designer purse.

Gift baskets with their favorite wine, fruit, or baked goods make a tasty Christmas treat.

Every women loves jewelry. So think about getting your mom a new diamond necklace or earrings to

A new watch for your dad would help him never be late again. Even if you don’t have enough to buy him a Rolex, a nice watch would do just fine.

9 10

Dads are known for grilling. Even though it’s too cold to grill, get him excited for spring with a brand new grill or even accessories.

If your mom loves to cook, then cooking equipment, such as a new microwave, or a cookbook, would make a great gift.

If you’re a little low on cash this Christmas season, don’t worry.

The best gift a child can give their parents is a gift made from the heart.

Special Someone

Jennifer Newsiwender

Apple iPhone

4 6 7 8

A picture frame with a picture of the family is always a great gift. Other photo gifts, such as a calendar of pictures of the family or mugs with a picture of the family, also make great gifts.

Have no idea what to get that special someone this year? Shopping for the significant other can be either very simple, or very complicated. They will love any gift you get them, but just in case you still have no idea.

Here are some things that they might enjoy.

Xbox 360 Counsels Made by Microsoft, there are now three systems you can enjoy. The latest system, Xbox 360 Arcade is selling as low as $199.99! It has 256 MG and includes games! There is also the Xbox Pro with 60 GB and selling for $299.99 and the Xbox Elite with 120 GB and selling for $399.99! Which console is for you?

Nintendo Wii Nintendo’s revolutionary and latest game counsel is the Wii. Even though the Wii came out almost two years ago, it’s still one of the hottest items on the market. It’s a reason to get together with your friends and family and play today’s hottest games.

For Her

Jewelry Handbags Digital Camera Gift cards to their favorite clothing store Shoes Perfume

For Him

Wrist watch Sweatshirts Gift cards to their favorite clothing store Movies Cologne Video games

PlayStation 3 160 GB Counsels Sony upped the gigabyte on its PlayStation 3’s this year. There isn’t only a 40 GB or 80 GB, but now there is 160 GB. Its Internal 160GB HDD is great for storing your games, music, and photos. It also features a built-in Blu-ray player and HDMI output for 1080p resolution, 2 USB Ports, internet ready with built-in Wi-Fi, and Free PlayStation Network Access. It also includes one Dualshock 3 wireless controller. If you’re a hardcore gamer then this gift is just the thing for you.

Apple iPod Touch

LCD TV

Who wouldn’t love to have a new T.V.? LCD T.V.’s are becoming more common in homes and make great gifts. Most retailers this year are selling LCD T.V.’s at great low prices which make them a bargain no one can pass up.

IPod Nano

Apple once again came out with a brand new iPod nano with a slick new design, colors, and features. It stores everything from pictures, music, and videos. It also comes in nine different colors, making it hard to pick from. But the best part is, thanks to the built-in accelerometer, give it a shake and it shuffles the song for you. You can also turn it sideways to view your albums in cover flow.

Apple has once again come out with a better brand new iPod. The Apple iPod is equipped with a full touch screen, Wi-Fi wireless networking, Safari browser, Google Search or Yahoo! oneSearch, YouTube application and iTunes Wi-Fi Music Store and so much more! It’s like a hand held computer; the only thing you can’t do on it is call or text people.

Wii Fit

The Wii Fit, created

by Nintendo, is one of the hottest gifts this Christmas season and one of the hardest to find. The company can’t keep up with the high demand making it hard for retailers to keep them on the shelves. The Wii Fit controls onscreen action with your movements on the balance board as you work your way through a variety of challenges aimed at getting into shape.

6 THE AGORA Sports Piston fans claiming,

December 9, 2008

LIONS:

“It didn’t even take a month”

Almost only counts in horseplay and hand-grenades

Michael Crossman Staff

Seems as if Allen Iverson felt his Thanksgiving practice with his teammates was not one that he needed to attend.

In fact, the newly acquired Piston was the only one not present at Thursday morning’s practice.

Pistons coach Michael Curry told the Free Press that it really wasn’t a big practice.

“I was planning on running some cardio drills, and some basic offensive schemes with the team to help them get acquired to playing with Allen (Iverson),” Curry said.

“It’s a pretty hefty fine to be late, or to miss, and once again, it’s accountability for yourself and your teammates,” he said As part of the penalty for his unauthorized absence, Iverson was not in the starting lineup for the following game against the Knicks.

Iverson did play in the game and the Pistons delivered a boom, destroying the Knicks at the Palace, after losing two straight.

Then after Walter Herrmann’s 3 point display (6-7 3pt FG) in a win against Milwaukee, the Pistons came up short offensively against Portland’s Trailblazers. They came back, however, to beat the San Antonio Spurs 89-77 on the road.

To those of you who are not familiar with Iverson, he has a track record for unaccountable behavior.

It was in 2002 when Iverson, a Philadelphia 76er, decided not to show up for practice and was heavily criticized for his attitude towards those who questioned his loyalty.

When Iverson joined the Pistons just a month ago, he stated he was willing to do anything it took to help this franchise in its goals. With cameras rolling, Pistons president Joe Dumars humorously remarked “even practice.”

Even though Iverson laughed and replied yes to his boss, it took less than a month for his selfish ways to start to show their ugly face.

“Is this what we have to expect from him all season? Just showing up to practice whenever he feels

Photo courtesy of freep.com

Michael Crossman Staff

Many fans get really in the spirit of rooting for their team, above a father and son paint their faces in red, white and blue for the Pistons.

Photo courtesy of news.bbc.co.uk

like it,” Ben Schreiber, MCCC student, said.

“Any time he can get with these guys is extremely valuable, if they hope to contend again this year.

Boston has continued to play hard, and LeBron’s got Cleveland running, so the East (Conference) Finals are no easy ticket this year.”

“It didn’t even take a month,” he said.

Iverson still leads his teammates in scoring with 17.8 PPG, well below Pistons normal leaders, who average around 21.

If antics like this are what fans have to look forward to, what does that say about the Pistons state of mind come May?

Piston’s Upcoming Games Date

12/12 12/17 12-19 12/23 12/26 12/29 12/31 1/2 1/13 1/17 1/21 1/23 1/25 1/30

Opponent

Indiana Washington Utah Chicago Oklahoma City Orlando New Jersey Sacramento Charlotte New Orleans Toronto Dallas Houston Boston

Red Wings

Kristin Stepinski Staff

Around the NHL, the Red Wings are known as one of the hardest working teams in the league.

When their opponents outplay them, they turn around and outwork them to take home the two points. If that work ethic goes out the window, along with it go all of the wins.

Hard work beats talent when talent doesn’t work hard.

Throughout October and November, the Wings fought a ruthless travel schedule.

A trip to California at the end of October lasted a week and then they came home for a pair of games against the Devils and the Penguins.

After that it was a short trip to Florida to get some Eastern Conference games out of the way. Then the players were home for a game before heading back out west.

This time the trip was to Canada to take on the Oilers, Flames, Canucks and back home again to face Montreal.

A month of living in Red Bird II and sleeping in hotel rooms is reason enough to fall into a bit of a slump.

The Wings were 8-2-2 during November and not surprisingly, suffered most of those losses near the end of the month.

In the final game of the month, the Wings took out an early lead against the Canucks — business as usual.

Mikael Samuelsson scored in the first and the Wings held onto the

early lead until Taylor Pyatt tied the game up in the second.

Datsyuk took the lead back early in the third with a power play goal and just over a minute later Daniel Sedin tied it up for Vancouver.

The Wings played their game and out shot Vancouver 34-16 in regulation but the Canucks took over after the third period buzzer. A foolish interference penalty by Johan Franzen gave the Canucks a power play opportunity. They wasted no time capitalizing and scored 2:33 in overtime.

Maybe the brutal travel schedule is to blame, or maybe Mike Babcock needs to remind his players that NHL games are sixty minutes long.

Too many goals have been given up in the third and too many games are going into overtime that should have been locked up early on.

Remember that horrendous Pittsburgh game at the beginning of the month? The one that Detroit lost in overtime. The one that still stings a little bit. And the one that should have been over when the score was 3-1 or 4-2 or 5-2.

The one where the Wings faded in the third and Jordan Staal showed up with his hat trick and ruined the

Time

8:00 pm 7:30 pm 8:00 pm 8:00 pm 8:00 pm 7:30 pm 3:00 pm 8:00 pm 7:30 pm 7:30 pm 7:30 pm 7:00 pm 6:30 pm 7:00 pm

All home and away games can be watched on TV Station FS Detroit or on the Radio on WDFN 1130.

Visit www. nba.com/pistons to purchase tickets.

Almost only counts in horseshoes and hand-grenades It is an old tale passed down from coaches to players. Every generation of them that takes the field holds tight to the motto.

‘It doesn’t matter whether you win or lose it’s all in how you play the game.’

In Detroit we have managed to become great at being unsuccessful in both of these techniques.

The Lions gave up probably their last chance at a victory this season by giving up a fourth quarter lead to Minnesota to lose the game 20-16.

“I’ve divorced the Lions a long time ago. I refuse to even turn on the game when it is being shown” Jared Houndshell, MCCC student, said.

“It’s amazing how they can muscle up enough talent for 45 minutes, and then find a way to come up on the short end of the stick. Same old Lions,” Houndshell said.

Fans now are beginning to speak about becoming the first team to erase the Buccs from all time worst.

Who would have thought it would have been the Lions?

The 76 Buccaneers of Tampa Bay went a horrendous 0-14, becoming the first team to bear the mark of the winless. It was just last

year they had their first challenger to the crown in the Miami Dolphins.

The Dolphins managed to squeak out a weak 15 victory to go 1- 15.

With this tainted record though comes an advantage. The same Dolphins that went 1-15 got the first pick in the draft. After drafting OT Jake Long (U of M) they are now 8-5, and tied for first place in their division.

Granted adding a little ‘tuna’ to the mix never hurts.

Lion’s fans have always expressed complaints about drafting in the past, so in turn have no faith in the organizations decision making abilities.

“They’ll probably just get a baby quarterback, and receivers, while not focusing on the issue which is the line and defense” Nick Baker, MCCC student, said.

The fans need to understand that the problem has already been solved.

The first action that needed to take place has already happened, with the firing of Matt Millen.

“I hope they lose every game, and they all autograph their team photo of each other so all of them understand just what they accomplished. I think that’s what they need to really embrace the change that needs to happen” Baker said.

Lions are looking at the Colts, home against the Saints, and at division rival Packers to wrap up the season.

Bowl Breakdown Dec. 24, 2008

Photo courtesy of vault.sportsillustrated.cnn.com

SHERATON HAWAII BOWL: Aloha Stadium, Honolulu, HI Notre dame Fighting Irish (606) vs. Hawaii Warriors (7-6) 8 p.m. (ESPN)

Dec. 26, 2008 game plan.

Add to that a couple of games against the Canucks and a game against Anaheim early on and all three were lost in overtime.

Detroit operates under a defensefirst mentality, just as they always have. So why the sudden change in mode of operation? A good defense breeds a good offense, and if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it.

The Wings are at their best when they’re forechecking, putting pressure on the other team and peppering goalies with more shots than they know what to do with.

Coach Babcock is always pushing his players to put pucks on the net, and with good reason, Detroit is 6-0 when they have forty or more shots.

Wayne Gretzky said it best when he said, “You miss 100 percent of the shots you don’t

take.”

Detroit had a season high 47 shots during the Dec. 1 game against Anaheim. Even better, the Wings held off Anaheim’s shut-down defensive line of Chris Pronger and Scott Niedermayer, while also keeping the Ducks to just 16 shots on goal.

Anaheim goalie Jean-Seabastien Giguere suffered 38 shots before leaving the net after forty minutes due to dehydration. Backup goaltender Jonas Hiller started the third period and Marian Hossa didn’t waste any time, scoring the game winner after just one minute and 48 seconds.

It was Hossa’s fourteenth goal of the season and his second game winning goal in four days.

MOTOR CITY BOWL: FORD Field, Detroit, MI Florida Atlantic Owls (6-6) vs.

Central Michigan Chippewas (8-4) 7:30 p.m. ESPN CHAMPS SPORTS BOWL: Citrus Bowl, Orlando, FL Wisconsin Badgers (7-50 vs.

Florida State Seminoles (8-4) 4:30 p.m. ESPN

Dec. 28, 2008 Petro Sun INDEPENDENCE BOWL: Independence Stadium, Shreveport, LA Northern Illinois Huskies (6-6) vs.

Louisiana Tech bulldogs (7-5) 8 p.m. ESPN VALERO ALAMO BOWL: Alamodome, San Antonio, TX Missouri Tigers (9-4) vs. Northwestern Wildcats (9-3) 8 p.m. NFL Network TEXAS BOWL: Reliant Stadium, Houston, TX Western Michigan Broncos (9-3) vs. Rice Owls (9-3) 8 p.m. NFL Network INSIGHT BOWL: Sun Devil Stadium, Tempe, AR Kansas Jayhawks (7-5) vs. Minnesota Golden Gophers (7-5) 6p.m. NFL Network

Jan. 1, 2009 OUTBACK BACK: Raymond James Stadium, Tampa, FL South Carolina Gamecocks (7-5) vs. Iowo Hawkeyes (8-4) 11a.m. ESPN

CAPTIAL ONE BOWL: Citrus Bowl, Orlando, FL Georgia Bulldogs (9-3) vs. Michigan State Spartans (9-3) 1p.m. ABC

ROSE BOWL: Rose Bowl, Pasadena, CA USC Trojans (11-1) vs. Penn State Nittany Lions (11-1) 5:10 p.m. ABC FEDEX ORANGE BOWL: Dolphine Stadium, Miami, FL Cincinnati Bearcats (11-2) vs.

Virginia Tech hokies (9-4) 8:30 p.m. FOX

Jan 2, 2009 ALLSTATE SUGAR BOWL: Louisiana Superdome, New Orleans, LA Utah Utes (12-0) vs. Alabama Crimson Tide (12-1) 8:20 p.m. FOX

Jan 5, 2009 TOSTITOS FIESTA BOWL: University of Phoenix Stadium, Glendale, AZ Ohio State Buckeyes (10-2) vs.

Texas Longhorns (11-1) 8:20 p.m. FOX

Jan 6, 2009

GMAC BOWL: Ladd-Peebles Stadium, Mobile AL Tulsa Golden Hurricane (10-3) vs.

Ball State Cardinals (12-1) 8 p.m. ESPN Jan 8, 2009 FedEx BCS CHAMPIONSHIP GAME: Dolphin Stadium, Miami, FL Florida Gators (12-1) vs. Oklahoma Sooners (12-1) 8 p.m. FOX

Complied by Andrew Thurlow from Angelique S. Chengelis article in the Detroit News

December 9, 2008

TRL Finale

Miranda Panik Staff

Nov. 16, 2008, marked the end of an era as Total Request Live signed-off for the last time.

Total Finale Live, as the farewell show was called, was a montage of the shows funniest moments, biggest celebrities, highlights, and top performances.

When the show first began in 1998, it was a ritual for young kids to come home, watch TRL, and sneak a call to 800 DIAL MTV to vote for their favorite music video.

Before iTunes and Napster offered a multimedia library of songs to choose from, TRL was what kids relied on to find new music to listen to.

Many people owe their careers to TRL’s celebrity status. If it weren’t for this show, it’s safe to say many celebrities wouldn’t have the same opportunities they were offered.

For instance, many people know Hilary Burton as gloom and doom Peyton Sawyer of The CW’s One Tree Hill. Many people forget that this once small-town girl got her start winning MTV’s “Wanna be a VJ?” contest on

A&E

Britney Spears ...Baby One More Time (1998)

Michael Crossman Staff

Above: Celebrity visitors stepped into a photo booth on set and left their mark one last time on the ten year running show. The pictures from top to bottom of are Adam Sandler, Blink 182 and B2K..

Left: Damain Hahey and Carson Daly are two of the most well know faces of TRL. The two ended the TRL Finale with a tossed and clinked glasses with beer drink and cigar smoking Kid Rock and Snoop Dog. Below: Singer Taylor Swift shows off the 1998-2008 yearbook to VJs Hilarie Burton and Lyndsey Rodrigues. The yearbook is signed by all the celebrity guests, including all five signature of P.Diddy’s different names, the only one in history.

Teens can go on mtv.com at a chance to win it.

Performers 50 Cent - In Da Club, Get Up Backstreet Boys - I Want It That Way Beyonce - If I Were a Boy, Single Ladies Fall Out Boy - I Don’t Care, Dance, Dance Ludacris - One More Drink, Stand Up Nelly - Hot in Here Snoop Dog - Drop It Like It’s Hot

Photos courtesy of mtv.com

2. Eminiem - The Real Slim Shady (2000) 3. Backstreet Boys - I Want It That Way (1999) 4. *NSYNC - Bye Bye Bye (2000) 5. Christina Aguilera - Dirty (2002) 6. Kid Rock - Bawitdaba (1999) 7. Beyonce featuring Jay-Z - Crazy In Love (2003) 8. Usher featuring Ludacris & Lil’ Jon - Yeah! (2004 9. Blink-182 - What’s My Age Again (1999) 10. Outkast - Hey Ya! (2003)

I-75 Film Series McGeady’s Pub previews Michigan and near by local area indie films

Left.: Founder Casey Watersworth sports his I-75 Film Series shirt stands with The OC’s Adam Brody.

Below: Jason Margraves was the MC of the I-75 Film Series.

Photos courtesy of Casey Watersworth

Steve Sonoras Staff

There’s something brewing upstairs at McGeady’s—and it’s not beer.

On the fourth Sunday of every month at 7 p.m., a wide range of Monroe residents have been stepping out to McGeady’s pub downtown to attend the I-75 Film Series.

The series, founded by Monroe residents Casey Watterworth, Jody Branham, and Matt West, showcases a broad variety of local independent features ranging from student films to documentaries to short horror films and feature length comedies.

The film series was inspired by a similar event in Toledo called the Vistula Film Festival, where Watterworth and his partners screened

their student films while in college.

“It was a great place to show our work and get feedback from an audience,” Watterworth said. “We wanted to bring the same atmosphere to Monroe. Monroe has a great independent music scene, but we felt it was lacking of an indie film scene.”

The trio behind the non-profit film series receives loads of submissions daily from both regional and national filmmakers.

“We try to focus on Michigan and regional filmmakers,” Watterworth said. “The quality of production ranges from excellent to hardto-watch. But, each film completed is an accomplishment for the crew that worked on it. Filmmaking is a very tough and expensive industry.”

Though not every film is picked for screening at The I-75 Film Series, each person involved with the event gives feedback to the filmmakers behind each submission.

“This helps them improve on future productions,” Watterworth said.

The I-75 Film Series’ mission is not just to locate talent in Monroe, but also to bring talent to Monroe.

“One of our goals is to help the powers-that-be in Monroe realize the potential to make filmmaking a great product for the local economy,” Watterworth said. “There is a great deal of job creation and money involved in the film industry. Why not bring it to Monroe?”

In addition to bringing big Hollywood talent to the Monroe area for economic reasons, Watterworth

7

Kanye West 808’s and Heartbreak

TRL. Jesse Camp was the first winner of this contest. After working on the show for over a year, Jesse began a band called Jesse & the 8th Street Kidz on Hollywood Records. He also was a runway model in an Anna Sui fashion show.

And who could forget the commotion caused by Britney Spears. At just 18-yearsold when “Baby One More Time” came out, TRL launched the young girl into international super stardom and turned her into the sex symbol she is now known as.

On the show’s Finale, Christina Aguilera said via satellite, “Seeing my video played on TRL for the first time was a milestone. I knew I had made it then.” Now it seems, without the show to boot the egos of the up-and-coming, their music will simply have to speak for itself.

So what will MTV do now that one of its most watched shows has gone off the air?

Well, I’m sure as long as there is best friendbackstabbing and boyfriend drama on The Hills, the ratings shouldn’t take too much of a hit.

#1 All Time Music Video:

THE AGORA

hopes to incorporate some major talent into his film series as well.

He has already sent invitations to famous Michigan residents such as Jeff Daniels (Escanaba in Da Moonlight, Dumb and Dumber), Bruce Campbell (The Evil Dead, My Name is Bruce, Burn Notice), and Ted Raimi (Hard Target, Darkman) with the hopes that they will host future I-75 Film Series screenings.

Whether or not they turn up, Watterworth sees growth for his project in the future.

“Hopefully The I-75 Film Series will realize itss full potential and become a major annual event in the Monroe area like The Sundance Film Festival, or The Ann Arbor Film Fest.”

To those who enjoy a five mic (classic) hip-hop album, this is the one you must purchase.

Kanye West’s prior release, Graduation, hit the charts hard in 07, retiring rappers and setting record numbers, but no one saw this coming.

An issue that is imperative to understand is that this is not your typical hip-hop you have been brainwashed into believing to being a part of such a prestigious faction.

There’s no “throwing any D’s”, or 22 inch rims being discussed — it’s pure emotion. To the average listener it may take some time to grow on you.

Kanye has reached out to the intellectual-driven minds and released a sound so toxic that it leaves you breathless, yet eased. It is sort of like being locked in a cage, while still holding the keys.

After recent events have left Kanye stirring in the shadows of the public eye, recent cameos on other artists’ songs gave fans the notion that West was on a mission, and could not be deterred.

808’s and Heartbreak is the only imaginable title for this manifesto, in that there are no commercial club-bangers, or anthems. Tracks like Bad News, and the soulful ballad with Lil Wayne, See you in my nightmares, bring the light to his intended message.

His sad and heartfelt goodbye to his mother, who passed away this year, Coldest Winter; was an amazing way in which to honor the best friend he so tragically lost.

Kanye’s unmasked display allows audiences to witness first hand exactly his coping mechanisms and all the while delivering an inspiring classic with tracks that captivate your hearing in the way no artist has ever been able to achieve.

Joyeux Noel Cassie Kane Staff

On Christmas Eve of 1914 German, Scottish, and French soldiers declared a ceasefire on the battlefield in view of the holiday. The movie Joyeux Noel depicts the events which took place during the days surrounding the ceasefire of WW1.

The film includes a well established cast including: Diane Kruger (Troy), Gary Lewis (Eragon, Gangs of New York), and Benno Furmann (Speed Racer, The Order).

Joyeux Noel is a different type of war film. There is some action, which one would expect, but there is more focus on the human side of war.

Each side of the story is told – German, French and Scottish. To make the film more realistic, the movie is filmed in mostly French and German, so there will be subtitles. For those who are not into reading subtitles, please give this movie a try; it’s well worth it.

Joyeux Noel proves to be a great movie for the holidays, or possibly anytime of the year. The film, which is based on true events, shows us that even enemies can find common ground.

On Christmas Eve these three armies shared stories, played games, sang songs, exchanged addresses, and even shared some champagne and coffee.

Everyone also joins together for a Christmas Eve mass before finding their way back to the trenches.

The way the movie was filmed made the story come to life. Realistic feelings of curiosity, fear, anger, and respect were shown without announcement.

Humor was also an intricate part of the film; reminding us that even in times of war, soldiers need some amusement.

The film itself makes one feel as if they are standing down in the trenches with these characters, freezing in the December cold.

Each band of troops faces its own problems. On the Scottish side, two brothers have gone to war, the younger following the older. The older brother is killed, and the younger hangs on the edge of a psychotic break.

On the German side, a famous opera singer is drafted and separated from his leading lady and lover.

The French lieutenant awaits word of his wife, who is with child in occupied France.

Each story has its own livelihood and the emotions shown on the screen can be felt by those watching as well.

Joyeux Noel also puts forth the harsh truth faced by these men after the ceasefire is over.

In the film, the simple fact is that the common man can get along, but it is politics and politicians that create wars, which cause hate.

The ceasefire did not end because these soldiers wanted it to, but because they had a duty which they could not escape.

They say no one truly understands war, and on Christmas, when the ceasefire had ended, war became even more complicated for those on the battlefield.

In the film, the Scottish priest (played by Gary Lewis) who had led the Christmas Eve mass said: “Tonight these men were drawn to that altar like a fire in the middle of winter. Even those not devout came to warm themselves…maybe to just forget about the war.”

Joyeux Noel is sure to fill your heart with the warmth and good will that brought these soldiers together one Christmas Eve almost 94 years ago.

Share this piece of history and holiday spirit with your family this holiday season.

This film is a realistic depiction of the Christmas Eve ceasefire and of the Christmas joy that all may share together.

8 THE AGORA

Spotlight Attention Students: Winter Break Work

1-5 week work program.

Flex sched. $17.25 base-appt. customer sales/ service, will train, conditions apply all ages 17+, 734-322-5155 To apply for location near you Semesterbreakwork.com

SYMPHONY BAND CONCERT MON, DEC. 15 7:30 P.M.

Book Buy Back Begins Monday, December 15

Main Campus

Whitman Center

Dec. 15- 8:30 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Dec. 15- 8:30 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Dec. 16- 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Get 50% of the price the book sold for in the current semester!

Some texts or packages are unable to be bought back because components are not sold separately, available only for student purchase, or priced so high by the publisher the separate item is close to package price. If the bookstore is unable to supply all required items needed for the class, it can’t buy only the textbook back.

For items the bookstore is not able to purchase, the wholesaler on site may purchase those items. Their list is by national demand, and if they do purchase your books, you may only receive a small amount for them, not half. You are under no obligation to sell your books to them, this is just another option offered to you.

But before you sell any of your books back, make sure they are not needed for future classes, as some are used for two semesters, such as English 151- 152. Textbooks marked as “Instructor, International or Complimentary” which students have obtained from other sources are not eligible for buy back with the bookstore or wholesaler on campus.

Stop by the bookstore for all your Christmas shopping needs!

- Christmas CD’s $6.99 - Stocking stuffers $2.00 and under - Variety of Bargain books $1.99 - Christmas Stickers - T-Shirts , Sweatshirts, Jackets - MCCC logo pens, mugs - Stuffed Animals

College/Community Symphony Band Directed by Mark Felder

MCCC Student Government Presents:

of the 2009

Dec. 16- 3 p.m. to 6 p.m.

Dec. 17- 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.

FREE GENERAL ADMISSION

Battle Bands

December 9, 2008

Think your band is rocking enough to compete? Email The Student Government at battleofbandsmccc@gmail.com.

They will email back where to drop off a CD or DVD of your songs. All audition material will be due Jan. 21, 2009. If they like your stuff they will contact you to perform in the Battle of the Bands competition on Feb. 21, 2009.

Questions? Contact: battleofbandsmccc@gmail.com

Three Men and a Tenor Fri, Dec. 12 7:30 p.m.

La-Z-Boy Center, Meyer Theater Reserved Seating: $17 VIP Seating: $25

Low on Gas $$ In this issue of The Agora we are five (MCCC symbols). Your objective is to locate all five, write them down in the blanks below and drop them off in the mailbox outside The Agora room (L 202). If you have all five we will put your name in a drawing for:

$100 GAS CARD

that we will reward at the end of the semester. Each issue we will have more thinkgs to look for. You can enter each issue to better your chances. Happy hunting!

Name

Number