2-5-2009

N.A.I.A.S. goes electric

President or pg 2 Celebrity?

pg 7

Pistons take a dive

GORA A

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THE

Monroe County Community College

February 5, 2009

Vol. 52, Issue 1

‘Shots Fired’: tips for safety

Dyn-o-mite!

What would you do if a gunman came onto MCCC’s campus?

Michael Crossman

Assistant Copy Editor-in-Chief

Campus security training has become available for your viewing pleasure.

MCCC Student Government hosted an open showing of the nationally renowned DVD, “Shots Fired,” in an attempt to enlighten students on the proper steps to follow in a campus shooting crisis.

MCCC President Dr. David Nixon shows full confidence in showing the film to his students.

“I know this will work,” he said.

“I recently visited another campus this size that has shown the film, and they seemed to get a good reaction. I’m glad we’re getting a jump on awareness.”

The fact is these incidents are over within a matter of minutes after they begin. Response time for authorities is under four minutes in some of the situations, and the carnage was complete before they even busted in the door.

Ensuring your readiness in any situation is the first step in helping to save your life, as well as those of your fellow students.

“I watched the movie, and I actually did learn a couple of things that I didn’t know before,” Julie Richards, MCCC student, said.

“It [the movie] got rid of the unknown or unbelievable element.

This is a serious issue that has been effecting our generation since we were in grade school,” she said.

“After watching the movie, I still am not concerned with MCCC being a target, but now if the time ever comes, I’m prepared,” she said.

In the film, Executive Director for the Center for Personal Protection and Safety Randy Spivey de-

If a shooter enters the room...

• Get out – See if there is any way to escape the room you are in and get outside or in a crowded area.

• Hide out – Find a place to take cover and get out of the shooter’s sight. If there is a group of you in a room, spread out so it is hard to distinguish an exact target.

• Take out – This is the final measure to take if all other plans have failed. Distract the shooter when he enters your room, and restrain him from leaving in any way. Courage and discipline are keys to this step. livers his message, and it is crystal clear.

“Students must develop a survival mindset and have the proper tools to ensure they remain alive,” he said.

“Act accordingly to any sound or act that seems suspicious. This may be what saves your life.”

Vinnie Maltese, dean of the Science/Mathematics Division, stressed the importance of this video to the students and faculty.

“I absolutely believe it should be mandatory for all to watch this

movie and develop a game plan,” he said.

“If I was in my office and shots were fired, I would escape out my window and call for help. Once I was out of the building I no longer would be a target for the shooter,” he said.

“The biggest problem students/ faculty are facing is being unprepared. This film helps answer any what-do-I-do questions.”

Continued on page 2, Shots Fired

Thefts reported in H building A series of thefts in the Health building have led campus officials to warn students about keeping valuables in lockers.

“Recently on campus there have been some thefts of personal property out of lockers,” Randy Daniels, vice president of student and information services, wrote in an e-mail to college employees.

Two of the incidents involved lockers that were secured with a lock, Daniels said.

“Apparently, the thief has discovered a way to pry a locked door open. We have called in a detective from the Sheriff’s Department to assist with this investigation,” he said.

“In the meantime, they are asking that you not leave valuables in

INSIDE: Editorial...................2 Feature....................3 CampusNews........4

the locker rooms, locked or otherwise.”

Daniels suggested that students and employees who use the Fitness Center leave items of value in their vehicles.

“If you have questions or information regarding these incidents, please contact campus security,” he said.

Campus News.........5 A&E..........................6 Sports......................7 Spotlight..................8

Enriching the students across Southeast Michigan

Agora Photo by Emily Chandonnet

Jimmy J.J. Walker, of the 1970s sitcom “Good TImes,” offered his brand of comedy Jan. 30 in the Meyer Theater at the La-Z-Boy Center. Story and photos on page 6.

Snowy winter semester challenges closing system Mary Rose Takacs Design Team

Fresh powder welcomed MCCC students back to school in the first few weeks of this winter semester.

Ice and snow have covered the roads leading to the main campus and Whitman Center, along with the parking lots and sidewalks of the college.

Temperatures have reached below zero as snow has fallen at a steady pace.

With these conditions, information about delays, cancellations or the closing of the college can be au-

tomatically transmitted to anyone who has been logged into the Alert Now system.

Alert Now is an emergency contact system MCCC implemented last fall in response to the Virginia Tech shootings last April.

It can be used to inform students and faculty about tornados, natural disasters, snow storms, shootings and other emergencies.

Alert Now already has been used once this semester, on the first Saturday.

Students and faculty members received notification that the college

was closed due to road conditions, with more snow forecast.

The process for choosing delays, cancellations or closing the college is supervised by Randy Daniels, vice president of student and information services at MCCC. There are several aspects to these decisions, ice being number one, he said.

If roads are like a sheet of glass it is not safe for students or faculty to drive to campus, Daniels said.

Continued on page 5, Snow

Fitness Center Hours:

Library Hours:

Mon - Thurs: 9 a.m. - 8 p.m.

Friday: 8 a.m. - 4 p.m.

Saturday: 9 a.m. - 12 p.m.

Mon - Thurs: 8 a.m. - 9:30 Friday: 8 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.

Saturday: 9 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.

Writing Center Hours:

Book Store Hours:

Monday: 9 a.m. - 7 p.m.

Tues - Thurs: 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Mon & Tues: 8 a.m. - 7 p.m.

Wed - Fri: 8 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.

Visit our website at: www.monroeccc.edu

2 THE AGORA

Editorial

Don’t Copy This!

February 5, 2009

Barack Obama Educates Righty

Cheating in college is no game and the penalties are serious

Resa Waldecker Page Designer

Do you remember cheating at a game when you were four?

At four years old, your pride was in that game of “Candy Land.”

There was no way you could lose.

So, you did what you had to, when it was your turn, you sneakily slid Princess Frostine on the deck.

In your mind, you were not only going to win, you were a magician.

Until your babysitter looked you in the eye, and said, “Did you cheat?”

As a babysitter, I know that cheaters never win the game of “Candy Land.”

It is obvious to me when a fouryear-old cheats. For one, I am an

expert at “Candy Land;” I know how to play the game. And truthfully, I was also four once, and I know how to cheat.

Cheating at “Candy Land” is not very different from plagiarizing an English paper.

Say the subject was British Classics. Dr. Mccloskey is the expert, and you are the four-year-old.

When he assigns papers, it is not to torture you, but for you to formulate an opinion on what he, the expert, knows.

As an expert, Dr. McCloskey knows that you are beginning his class with little or no experience.

You can imagine how evident it is to Dr. McCloskey when you plagiarize. But as disappointed as he would be in you, you are the one that is not only cheated out of learning that subject, but now expelled from school.

So why would students risk being expelled for an A? Convenience.

The idea of devoting time and energy just to learn something you may never use seems dastardly.

If only you could be that fouryear-old magician and with three words write your paper. Oh wait… you do know three magic words: click, copy, paste.

But a magician is really a master

Michael Crossman Copy Assistant Editor

of illusions, and plagiarism is one illusion that is not only dangerous, it is easy to figure out. Does a magician want to immerse himself in water for twenty minutes, when his audience has already figured out how he does not drown?

A paper is like a rubrics cube.

Just like you can not solve a rubrics cube by following directions, sentences take time and attempts before your ideas start to make sense. If you do not spend that time now, you will never be motivated to spend that time. And when all you can do is click, copy, paste, can you play “Candy Land”?

I never knew this was going to be the most amazing lesson i have ever learned in my life, until after I witnessed it.

Watching the Inauguration on televisions scattered across campus, I could feel my conservative eyes burning with the sight of the new “lefty” taking office. Along the entire campaign road I, along with many other journalists, had delivered hateful pieces targeting the newly appointed president.

Whether it was the lack of experience or his slap at patriotism by not placing his hand over his heart during the National Anthem, whatever my beefs were came to an internal cease fire the minute my eyes caught the screen.

What I saw was history in the making. It was actual history and not the kind that comes with the baggage of tragedy or despair.

At that moment I realized it didn’t matter whether I casted

my vote for this man or not, he is now the new commander in chief of the “Free World.” And how could I not have accepted it already, with the bouquet of Hollywood’s finest filming ads out of a Jonestown broacher.

I recalled how the country reacted after September 11 and it brought back visions of the flaunted band of colors being displayed proudly. It’s always amazing in a tragedy how the American flag never looks more beautiful in those spacious skies.

And I realized this may be what this country needs. Americans have earned the privilege to be able to rejoice and show their love and support for their leader and country.

Maybe his celebrity status could be used as a motivational jump start in the rebuilding process.

To see over 2 million people pack the nation’s capitol, and glimpses of wheel-chair bound supporters miles deep at the back of the crowd, was all I needed to believe that the next four years were going to be optimistic in the nation’s eyes.

Obama was sworn in on Lincoln’s own Inaugural Bible, and I’m sure in his mind he was recalling his historical shadow’s famous words.

“The probability that we may fail in the struggle ought not to deter us from the support of a cause we believe to be just.”

Some of us are afraid of change, and the consequences it carries, but if it is necessary and the will of the majority in this country, then the country has just won in their own win-win situation.

Let’s just keep the expectations realistic though.

Policy forces Datsyuk and Lidstrom to sit out unnecessary game

Kristin Stepinski Page Designer

NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman isn’t exactly well liked among the National Hockey League. Not among the players and certainly not among the fans.

And now everyone in Detroit will boo a little louder the next time he hands Nicklas Lidstrom a Stanley Cup. After Pavel Datsyuk and Nicklas

Lidstrom withdrew from this year’s All-Star contest in Montreal due to injuries, a policy that Bettman imposed last year resulted in the suspension of both players.

Datsyuk left the Jan. 20 game against the Phoenix Coyotes early with a nagging hip flexor injury while Lidstrom has been dealing with elbow problems all season.

Neither Lidstrom nor Datsyuk were able to play during the Jan. 27 game against central division foes the Columbus Blue Jackets.

I have no idea what was going through Bettman’s head when he came to the conclusion that this would be a good idea; though I think it’s safe to say that everyone has stopped trying to figure out what the man is thinking.

Sidney Crosby, captain of the Pittsburgh Penguins was injured too. But he made the flight to Montreal anyway.

He didn’t play during the game but he went to a few media ap-

Shots Fired Continued from page 1

Survival Mindset

• Awareness- Having or showing realization, perception, or knowledge.

• Preparation--The action or process of making something ready for use or service or of getting ready for some occasion, test, or duty.

• Rehearsal—A private performance or practice session preparatory to a public appearance.

Hostage Situation

• Do what you are told • Remain calm • Follow directions • Wait for Authorities to resolve situation

In the Classroom

• Remember the shooter is against a ratio of at least 20 to 1 • Throw books, chairs, etc to distract the shooter, without endangering others • Be aware of doors and windows • Spread out

pearances, picked up his check and fulfilled all of his required duties as the NHL’s Golden Boy. For that reason, he doesn’t have to worry about facing any ridiculous suspensions.

Players around the league look forward to the weeklong All-Star game break. It’s the mid-point of the season and the much needed time off lets everyone stop and relax before gearing up for the second half of the year.

Players with families often leave town for a short vacation with the kids, others head back home to score a home cooked meal from mom while the remaining players stay home and nurse their injuries that have been building up for more than forty games.

Lidstrom and Datsyuk opted for the third choice, instead of putting up with flights and airport security, the craziness that is an All-Star game. Not to mention the potential to injure themselves even further,

and decided to stay home.

“All the All-Star guys, obviously they’re the best players on their teams and play a lot of minutes and guys you would most want to get rest,” Red Wings forward Kirk Maltby told the Detroit Free Press.

“As an athlete, when you get three, four days to just be on your own and relax, I think it really goes a long ways towards rejuvenating the body for the second half and the stretch-drive into the playoffs and hopefully a long playoff run.”

The next time a player decides to skip an All-Star game, even in the case of an injury, the player has to give up one of two regular season games, either the game right before the break or the game directly after.

The only question that comes to mind is “Seriously?”

It is entirely possible that Datsyuk and Lidstrom’s injuries would have kept them out of the first game back after break. It’s also entirely pos-

sible that the four or five days off would have done the trick and both players would have been healthy again and ready to play.

Don’t forget that we’re also talking about hockey here. These athletes are known for playing through the pain. Former Detroit Red Wings Captain Steve Yzerman did it for most of his career.

The man’s multiple knee injuries and corrective surgeries were well documented throughout his storied career here in Detroit.

In 2002, Yzerman even underwent a knee realignment surgery called an osteotomy. Don’t bother googling it. Let’s just say that it’s a surgery normally set aside for your Grandpa, not a future hall of fame hockey player who has yet to reach his fortieth birthday.

Would Bettman have even blinked an eye had Yzerman needed to skip an All-Star game in that condition? I doubt it. So who is he to belittle the injuries of Datsyuk and

Lidstrom, regardless of how “minor” they might be?

It’s bad enough that Lidstrom and Datsyuk weren’t voted into the starting line-up. We’re talking six Norris trophies, a Conn Smythe, three Lady Byngs, a Selke trophy and six Stanley Cups between the TWO of them.

When an event is partially fan voted, there will always be some sort of discrepancy between the players who deserve the votes and those who actually get them.

If Bettman wanted more Red Wings in Montreal then he should alter the system, not punish the players for being injured.

It’s okay, I’m sure that Datsyuk and Lidstrom are just going to be bouncing out of their skates to help out Mr. Bettman in the future. The next time he needs an alternate player at the All-Star game, I’m sure they will be the first to volunteer.

On second thought, maybe not.

The Agora Staff Members Editor-in-Chief Design Editor-in-Chief Emily Chandonnet

Assistant Editor Jennifer Niswender Adviser Dan Shaw Copy Editor-in-Chief Casey Cheap Copy Assistant Editor Michael Crossman

Marketing Team Casey Cheap Asia Rapai Copy Team Asia Rapai Brandy Werner Marcus Akers Design Team Mary Rose Takacs Resa Waldecker Kristin Stepinski Miranda Panik Jennifer Niswender

Staff Jeremy Hickey Susan Banoski Alan McKee

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

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

The Agora is a student-managed

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

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

Feature THE AGORA 3 Obama uses media to become first “wired” President February 5, 2009

Miranda Panik Page Designer

Barack Obama has begun to use innovative methods involving technology to communicate with Americans, while increasing accountability and participation throughout the nation.

The Internet has dominated as one of the main drivers on the media highway. Instead of making a ten-minute phone call, it is faster to shoot out a brief email. Many Americans get the daily news from the web, versus newspapers. For this reason, the Web is now being used as a tool by politicians not only for communicating new policies with Americans, but also for receiving feedback.

Barack Obama is one of the main politicians using this method, making him what CNN has called the first “wired” president.

Obama has used his Myspace page, Facebook account, and his website, www.change.gov, to interact with Americans all over. His Myspace page alone has over one

“Barack is Americas next-door neighbor.”

million friends on it, and his database is registered with over 13 million email addresses. His Facebook has also grown by over 700,000 members since he was elected in November.

His channel on YouTube contains messages, videos, and speeches from the President that have been posted over the past few months, each one receiving thousands of views.

The theory behind using this technology is that citizens can post questions and concerns onto change.gov, like a blog. The top concerns will be gathered into a briefing book that will be given to Obama for him to address.

The hope is that with Americans being able to directly communicate with the President, it will inspire everyone to become more involved and interactive with the country.

Also, Americans will be able to be held accountable to a certain extent, given the fact that they will be able to communicate their needs directly to Obama via the Internet.

The question posed is whether or not this is a viable use of a convenient tool at hand. Should Barack Obama be using the Internet in a way teenagers do by communicating through Myspace and Facebook to reach voters, or should he stick with tradition and televised speeches?

“I think its good that he’s using technology to his advantage,” said Melissa Anderson, former MCCC student.

“Barack has always come off as America’s next-door neighbor.

He’s like everyone’s best friend.

By being able to use his website to communicate with him, it just makes him that much more personable.”

February, a month of love

Photo curtesy of www.marcbaumann.com

Jennifer Niswender Assistant Editor

Valentine’s Day is quickly approaching and while some may not have even begun to think about what to get that special someone, others might just be looking forward to a day with the person they care about the most.

Valentine’s Day is not just about giving gifts or how much money you spend on each other. It’s about love. It is about recognizing the love you have for someone or how much you care about that special someone.

It is a holiday celebrated Feb. 14, in which lovers express how much they care about each other by giving or sending love notes in the form of valentines, flowers, cards, chocolates, stuffed animals, or little gifts to their significant other.

According to the U.S. Greeting Card Association, it is estimated approximately one billion valentines are sent each year worldwide, making the day the second largest card-sending holiday of the year behind Christmas. The association estimates that women purchase approximately 85 percent of all valentines.

“I’ve always thought of it as a fun holiday even if you don’t have a significant other to spend it with.

My dad still does stuff for my mom, sister, and I on Valentine’s Day,” said MCCC student Mara Calabrese.

Even though most people think of it as a day of love, it originated in fifth Century in Rome as a tribute to St. Valentine.

According to wilstar.com, eight hundred years prior to the establishment of Valentine’s Day, the Romans had practiced a pagan celebration in mid-February commemorating young mens rite of passage to the god Lupercus. The celebration featured a lottery in which young men would draw the names of teenage girls from a box.

The girl was then assigned to each young man in that manner and would be his sexual companion during the remaining year.

In an effort to do away with the pagan festival, Pope Gelasius ordered a slight change in the lottery. Instead of the names of young women, the box would contain the names of saints. Both men and women were allowed to draw from the box, and the game was to emulate the ways of the saint they drew during the rest of the year.

Instead of the pagan god Lupercus, the Church looked for a suitable patron saint of love to take his place. They found an appropriate choice in Valentine.

Claudius had determined that married men made poor soldiers.

So he banned marriage from his empire. But Valentine would secretly marry young men who came to him. When Claudius found out about Valentine, he first tried to convert him to paganism. But Val-

entine reversed the strategy, trying instead to convert Claudius. When he failed, he was stoned and beheaded.

During the days that Valentine was imprisoned, he fell in love with the blind daughter of his jailer. His love for her, and his great faith, managed to miraculously heal her from her blindness before his death. Before he was taken to his death, he signed a farewell message to her, “From your Valentine.” The phrase has been used on his day ever since.

The mid-February holiday in commemoration of St. Valentine was still used by Roman men to seek the affection of women. It became a tradition for the men to give the ones they admired handwritten messages of affection, containing Valentine’s name.

This holiday may be one that some people look forward to, but for single people, it may be one that they dread. They may think it’s just another holiday to remind them once again how lonely they are. But don’t let that pull you down; single people can simply share their love with the people that are closest to them. For example, such as a mother, father, sister, brother, or even your best friend.

If you do something for the ones closest to you, in return they will show you how much you really mean to them. It’s about remembering the people that really do care about you no matter what.

Love Makes You Hungry!

What: Writing Center Bakesale When: February 11 and 12 Where: A building across from switchboard Whether you are buying a Valentine Day Treat, diabetic treat, or an everyday treat, support the Writing Center.

They support you!

Agora photo by Brandy Werner

Students!

We need your imput Do you know an outstanding professor? How about a librarian, or advisor? Then nominate them for the Outstanding Faculty Award.

One full-time, as well as one part-time faculty member will be chosen, based on your nominations, as faculty member of the year. To nominate the staff member of your choice, go to www. monroeccc.edu and click on the link for the OFA nominations no later than Friday, Feb. 27.

Criteria: Leadership Knowledge Interest Fairness Integrity

Plagiarism: The Dangers Resa Waldecker Page Designer

It is not difficult to find out how seriously MCCC views plagiarism.

A quick search on the MCCC homepage will bring up the Humanities Division’s Plagiarism Statement.

It defines plagiarism as “the intentional or unintentional representation of the words, data or ideas of another as one’s own.”

A quick scroll down, and the severe punishment for plagiarism is spelled out: “The faculty member reporting an act of academic dishonesty may recommend expulsion from the college or program, or a lesser disciplinary action such as a failing grade on the test, paper, project, etc., or a failing grade in the course.”

Marjoree Miskey, MCCC student, believes “students should be expelled for plagiarizing.”

“Why take the chance of that person stealing work again? If they cannot do their own work, there is no reason for them to continue attending,” she said.

Expulsion from MCCC should be a student’s worse nightmare, yet Randy Daniels, Director of Student Services, sees “two to three cases of academic dishonesty each semester.”

Why do students risk plagiarizing when their whole college career is at stake, Dan Ford, MCCC Writing Fellow, asked?

“Students who are close to graduating are more apt to plagiarize because of the pressure they are feeling with regards to class work and exams,” he said.

The plagiarism trend is not limited to the MCCC Campus.

“Inside Higher Education” reports “Joe Biden ran for president in 1988. He delivered a speech that

presented the thoughts of British Labour Party Leader Neil Kinnock as if they were his own and was slow to explain or apologize for this transgression… Biden’s record revealed that he had also plagiarized in law school, failing a course for doing so. Shortly after these revelations, he dropped out of the race.”

Most of the time, however, plagiarizers do not become vice presidents. Another Inside Education states, “It’s possible that Ward Churchill may never again teach a class at the University of Colorado at Boulder... [Due to] findings of serious and repeated research misconduct.”

Jeannie Connelly, another MCCC student and writing fellow, sums up the moral of this story: “You need to be aware of plagiarism and cite everything that you should,” and it wouldn’t hurt to Google Joe Biden’s future speeches. Just to be sure.

4 THE AGORA Campus News

Student resources make life easier Asia Rapai Copy Editor

MCCC student Bethany McConnell didn’t even know there was a fitness center on campus.

Not only is there a fitness center, but students can also use it for free.

While many students have busy schedules, they are unaware of how MCCC’s student resources can make life easier.

These free resources can help students stay healthy by exercising in the fitness center or improve writing with the Writing Fellows, without spending any extra money.

“I think it’s awesome because people don’t have this stuff at home, so if they go to the college, they’re able to use it,” McConnell said.

This is her second semester as a full-time student and she enjoy using the student resources.

The fitness center is located in the H Building and open every day of the week, except Sunday.

Workout equipment includes treadmills, rowing machines, and hammer strength training equipment.

There are also training programs to keep students and alumni safe while exercising.

Even after graduation, MCCC alumni can use the fitness center for an annual fee of $50.

Bethany is also a Writing Fellow who works with students in the Writing Center.

It is located in the Learning Assistance Lab (LAL), which offers tutoring services for all subjects.

The LAL is located on the top floor of the C Building.

This service helps with education by offering a chance to work with fellow students on campus.

Face-to-face appointments can be made to see a Writing Fellow or papers can be sent through the

email E-Tutoring service.

Several other free student resources include the library, The Cellar, online registration, and student email accounts.

Student Debbie Waltz enjoys using the campus library when she needs to study.

“It’s nice to have. I am already here and it is so quiet,” she said She worked at MCCC until 1994, helping with registration. She has now returned to take classes this semester “It’s interesting to see the growth, and it’s very positive. I’m glad it’s improving,” she said.

February 5, 2009

3 Steps to Free Fitness Center Use 1. Take an orientation session* which teaches the correct use of equipment for your safety.

2.

Sign a liability waiver form.

3.

Bring a photo ID when using the facility. *Session times vary per semester. Look for posted schedules or set up a personalized training session

Work with a Writing Fellow Make an appointment…

• Call 734-384-4167.

• Stop by the front desk in the Learning Assistance Lab (C-218).

• Schedule half-hour or hour-long appointments.

• Get help with any step of the writing process.

• Check out the Writing Center’s website for handouts and more information about the service. http://www.monroeccc. edu/writing

Newman to South Carolina Club: Treks to build for Habitat Kristin Stepinski Page Designer

The recently formed Newman Club at MCCC is headed south for spring break next month.

Spaces are still open if students are interested in coming along. Interested students may want to pack a hammer and maybe even a hard hat.

The Newman Club will spend the week of March 2 in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina building houses with Habitat for Humanity.

Students from other colleges in southeast Michigan will also be making the trip. Students at University of Michigan-Dearborn, Schoolcraft College and Henry Ford Community College among others are already planning to attend.

“People asked, ‘Why not stay here? Why not help people here in Monroe?’ But young adults need to face different realities. That’s why we liked the idea of South Carolina,” said Julieta Oliva, the MCCC

campus ministry coordinator.

Club members have been raising money with bake sales and other student organized fundraisers in order to offset expenses. Travel costs are the main issue. In South Carolina, students will be staying in a retreat center, and they will be able to attend a daily prayer service.

A euchre tournament is held each Friday at 7pm in Allen Park at St. Frances Cabrini Parish and the proceeds from the February 13 date will benefit the Habitat for Humanity mission trip. There is a $5 registration fee and the event is open to anyone.

The club ultimately decided on Habitat for Humanity because of the somewhat controlled environment.

“They are very well organized. For young adults, that’s what we need,” Oliva said. “If you don’t have experience, Habitat for Humanity gives you a structure where you can learn and feel productive,” she added.

While the Myrtle Beach mission

trip might be the main focus for Newman club members, they are still planning many other events and community outreach fundraisers at the same time.

In addition to the Friday night euchre tournaments, a Super Bowl party was held at Our Lady of the Woods last weekend and a hunger banquet is planned for March 18.

Club members also are planning to attend the Michigan Young Adult Conference on March 28 in Detroit.

The next club meeting is scheduled for February 17 from 2-4pm in A Building’s Cellar. Club president, Dan Bronson, encourages students to join and get involved.

“It’s a good way to meet new people and make some friends,” said Bronson.

In the meantime, any student who is interested can visit the Newman club’s facebook account to learn more. Students can also contact Julieta Oliva at julietaoliva@hotmail. com.

Interest in an Alternative Spring Break or other Newman Club activities?

Contact Julieta Oliva at julietaoliva@hotmail.com - or visit the Newman Club’s Facebook

Club LAN finally comes to fruition Kristin Stepinski Page Designer

The job outlook for computer support specialists is expected to increase by 18 percent in the next ten years, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

MCCC students Don Molter and Kyle Lockmiller are well aware of this trend.

Rather than simply taking classes, Molter and Lockmiller wanted to get more involved and help other students to do so as well.

What do two budding network specialists do to remedy the problem? Start Club LAN (Local Area Network), of course.

Molter and Lockmiller started recruiting other computer students last semester and are set to begin meeting in January. Both students are hoping that it works out better this time around.

“Our server class has been together for about two and a half years now,” said Molter. “So we always tried things in smaller groups but it never panned out.”

‘College Goal Sunday’ at MCCC On February 8th, the college will be holding a one-on-one seminar to help student’s fill out the Free Apllication for Student Aid. The event is from 2 to 4 p.m and will be held in the La-Z-Boy Center. The seminors are free and open to the public.

If you plan on attending, and are younger than 23, it is suggested you attend with a parent or guardian.

Either way you need: • Completed 2008 IRS 1040 tax return (if possible) • W-2 forms • Any other income and benefit information • Your Social Security number • Your Driver’s License or alien registration card

Some of the buzz surrounding the club this time might have to do with adviser and assistant professor of computer information systems, Will Hilliker.

“The quality of the computer program increased so much when Hilliker started,” Lockmiller said.

“The interest just increased from there.”

Club LAN already has plans to get more involved in the Monroe community. A drive for cancer re-

“It’s not going to be your stereotypical geek club,” Molter said with a laugh. “Most people in our classes, computers are just one interest.”

Don Molter MCCC Student

search is tentatively set for spring.

Molter and Lockmiller are also thinking of ways to put their education to good use.

“We’re considering going out into the community and fixing computers,” Molter said.

Aside from planning fundraisers and helping out in the community, Molter and Lockmiller are looking forward to meeting new people and getting involved.

“We’re going to start with monthly meetings and see where it goes,” Lockmiller said. “In my opinion, it doesn’t have to be structured all the time.

Any student with an interest in computers is welcome to join, and those who are new to the world of computers need not be afraid.

“It’s not going to be your stereotypical geek club,” Molter said with a laugh. “Most people in our classes, computers are just one interest.”

Students interested in joining should attend the next meeting in A Building on February 24 in room 173.

Campus mourns teacher’s loss Marcus Akers Copy Editor

The tragic death of her daughter has led to a partial leave of absence for MCCC professor Lana Shryock.

Shryock, a CIS professor, lost her 23-year-old daughter in an accident during a church program in Cincinnati over the Christmas holiday.

“The entire division is deeply shocked and saddened by the accident,” said Paul Knollman, dean of MCCC’s business division.

“We keep her in our thoughts and prayers every day,” he said.

“We’ll keep supporting her every step of the way in her time of healing,” Knollman added.

Keri Schryock was an athletic and studious woman with a deep love of God, according to reports in the Cincinnati Enquirer.

She was sincerely interested in helping others and looked forward to a career in teaching after college.

The Enquirer reported that Keri

Shryock moved to Cincinnati earlier this year after graduating from Bowling Green University.

She didn’t know many people in town, but quickly found a church home at Crossroads, the church where the accident occurred, the newspaper reported.

“If you didn’t know Keri, you were missing out,” Brian Girton, 27, a graduate student at Cincinnati Christian University and friend of Shryock’s, told the Enquirer.

February 5, 2009

Campus News

THE AGORA

5

MCCC enrollment up again Susan Banoski Staff

Enrollment at MCCC increased again this winter semester, topping last winter by 133 students.

A total of 4,344 students enrolled at the college, down 89 students from fall but again setting a record for winter enrollment.

There are a number of reasons that enrollment has increased at MCCC, according to college Registrar Paul Schmidt, but the biggest is the economy.

Many people have lost their jobs and businesses are laying off, he said.

“People are finding that this is a great time to work on furthering their education,” Schmidt said.

Ashley Letourneau, of the college Financial Aid office, attributed the enrollment growth to a number of factors.

“I think that enrollment has increased because students recognize the importance of both affordable and quality education,” she said.

“Since MCCC is a community college, it does allow the student to receive more individual attention than they would at a larger university. Many courses offered at MCCC may also transfer to other universities, benefiting the student financially.”

The college also has a variety of programs designed to increase enrollment.

One is the Women in Robotics program designed to attract female students to engineering programs.

Bob Leonard, an instructor of Manu-

“People are finding that this is a great time to work on furthering their education.”

Paul Schmidt Registrar

facturing Technology, is the program’s faculty sponsor.

“The emphasis of the program is to encourage participation of women students

to stimulate interest in technology careers,” Leonard said.

The club will be redesigning a robot for competition. It also is seeking women interested in designing a web page for the group.

Students who participate in the group will meet in the CAM lab and will become members of the Society of Manufacturing Engineers (SME).

The club meets in W169 from 2:30-4 p.m. on Fridays.

Those who are interested are encouraged to contact Leonard, 734-384-4114, bleonard@monroeccc.edu The Student Lunch Program is another college initiative designed to increase enrollment.

Faculty and staff in several programs are encouraged to invite a student to lunch at Cuisine 1300, the student-operated restaurant, paid for by the Support Center for Occupational Program Empowerment, located in the office of Admissions.

The lunches will be during the Theme Cuisine weeks Feb. 16-27 or at the Buffet in March.

The program is an effort to increase enrollment and retention of students in special populations, such as economically disadvantaged, single parents, displaced homemakers, or students with disabilities who are in career and technical education programs.

Interested individuals are encouraged to contact Stacy Jenkins 734-384-4258, or sjenkins@monroeccc.edu.

Telling an HIV story Stitches Doll Project on display at Whitman Center Kristin Stepinski Page Designer

The Stitches Doll Project was on display recently at the Whitman Center.

The event wrapped up with a presentation from HIV educator and activist Kathleen Gerus, who founded the project in 1999.

Each doll created for the project is an opportunity for a woman suffering with HIV to answer the question, “If your doll could talk, what would she say?”

Currently, 141 dolls have been created all over the U.S. and Canada, including one from South Africa.

During the presentation, Gerus, who is HIV positive, talked about the disease and her own personal battles with discrimination. She talked with students about how she was infected as well as her decision to go public as someone living with HIV. Gerus contracted HIV from her husband, who was a hemophiliac, and was diagnosed in 1985. Gerus’ husband contracted the disease during a blood transfusion where he received blood that had already been infected.

During the 1980s, those that tested positive for HIV were considered outcasts.

“We have come a long way but it was an extremely scary time. You were always the leper in the room,”

said Gerus.

People often didn’t tell others of their HIV diagnosis.

“People didn’t walk around talking about it like I did,” she said.

“But I was obnoxious.”

Gerus then told a story of the time that she was returning from a convention with friends who were also HIV positive and together they decided to purchase t-shirts with the statement “No one knows I have HIV” printed on the clothing.

The decision for Gerus and her husband to go public came about after a young boy died from HIV. Ryan White made national news in 1984 when he was expelled from his school in Indiana for being HIV positive. White died in 1990 at age 18.

“We were asked, my husband and I, if we would go on this TV show and go public after Ryan White died and we decided that we

weren’t going to let this young boy die in vain,” Gerus said.

It was in 1999 that Gerus decided to begin the Stitches Doll Project as a way of keeping women’s stories alive. Gerus also used the project as a teaching mechanism. The stories helped to create awareness for other women.

Most dolls are created in a group setting with many different types of women.

“We have come a long way but it was an extremely scary time.

You were always the leper in the room.”

Kathleen Gerus.

HIV educator and activist

The age gap between the women making the dolls is seventy years.

The youngest girl to decorate a doll was six while the oldest woman was 76 when she created her doll depicting an angel.

“The dolls give women a chance to network with their peers,” Gerus said. “And they engender awareness and discussion about difficult issues.”

During the presentation Gerus also took time to educate students about the seriousness of HIV and the preventative measures that one can take in the future.

Gerus informed students that the number one way to contract HIV is by engaging in unprotected sex.

Another way to become infected is by blood-to-blood contact, while a lesser known carrier is breast milk.

“HIV is an equal opportunity virus and given the opportunity, it will infect you,” Gerus said.

Above and left are HIV Stich Dolls which were on display at the Whitman Center January 9-28.

Agora photos by Kristin Stepinski

‘Alert Now’ used to close campus in dangerous weather Snow Continued from page 1

Snow covered Whitman Center.

Agora photo by Mary Rose Takacs

Daniels consults with the college maintenance staff members, who are responsible for clearing the snow and ice.

In addition, he watches several different weather stations to be prepared for the day’s forecast.

Daniels drives the main roads leading to campus, as well, to determine whether conditions are slick, slushy or decent.

“If the roads are clear and campus is good, then the campus is going to stay open,” Daniels said.

There is no separation between main campus and Whitman center.

“If I close one, I close the other,” Daniels said.

Through the Alert Now system, closings or delays can be simultaneously announced, using a pre-recorded phone message, text message or email.

“I like the security in knowing if there is a delay I will be notified. I think it is done in a timely manner,” said Cathy Spearing, administrative assistant at Whitman Center.

If a delay or closing is decided, a morning notification will be sent.

“It wakes you up at 6 in the morning, but that’s okay, I like it,” Rachel Marshall, an MCCC student, said.

To be notified of these decisions, a sixstep signup for the First Alert system is provided on the college Web site, www. monroeccc.edu.

In addition, there are a few other ways to find out about cancelations, delays or closing of the college.

The college web site has “college closing status” under the general information box.

Also, students, staff and faculty can call the recording at 734-384-4223, or watch and listen to local TV and radio.

A Student walks alone as snow falls at Main campus.

Agora photo by Brandy Werner

How to Brake in Winter Weather ; 1.

A vehicle with anti-lock brakes will come to a stop with firm pressure given to the brakes. However, as the vehicle may slide a bit, a decent amount of distance should be maintained between vehicles.

Pumping the brakes will disengage the ABS and is unnecessary, the system will do this automatically.

2. If the vehicle has front wheel

drive and begins to skid slowly, release the gas pedal until the front wheels regain traction.

Then slowly steer the car in the right direction. Pressing on the brake pedal will cause a skid.

3. With rear wheel drive vehi-

cles, the gas pedal must be released as the car begins to spin.

Then firmly, but gently, countersteer the vehicle in the correct direction. Applying steady pressure to the brakes can cause a spinout.

4. If the vehicle has four-wheel

drive and begins to slide on ice, firmly pump the brake and steer the car in the correct direction to gain traction.

For more information check out www.roadragers.com

Steps for Black Ice 1. Black ice has a duller, darker look to it on the road vs. snow and ice appearing shiny, slick and wet.

2. Temperatures do not have to

be zero or below for black ice to accumulate.

3. Bridges, shaded areas and

roads that wrap around lakes and rivers are more prone to having black ice; in such areas reduce speed.

4.

If the car begins to slide when driving over black ice, release the gas pedal and turn the wheel gently and slightly toward the direction of the slide.

5. Pressing or slamming on the

brakes will only cause further sliding and a possible spin out.

6.

After maneuvering the car through the black ice, keep a look out for additional areas of possible occurrence.

Find additional information on www.howtodothings.com

6 THE AGORA

A&E

February 5, 2009

Right: After “J.J.’s” hour performance and question and answer session with the audience he signed tshirts, pictures and DVDs for fans.

Agora photos by Emily Chandonnet

“In it for the Laughs” Comedian J.J. Walker entertains Meyer Theater Asia Rapai Copy Editor

A “Dyn-o-mite!” performance by Jimmie “J.J.” Walker gave a small audience a good time at MCCC last week.

The audience entered the Meyer Theater in the La-ZBoy Center Jan. 30 to a colorfully lit stage and a large black-and-white picture of Walker.

Within a half hour, they were laughing, cheering, and clapping to the jokes of the star of 1970’s sitcom, Good Times.

“I really enjoyed it,” said audience member Karen Morrin. “I like that he doesn’t have to be dirty to be funny.”

Walker’s jokes focused on current issues and mainstream topics. He kept the audience’s focus on the present, not on his performance in the former television sitcom.

“I don’t have acting chops,” Walker said. “I’m the guy that does one thing; I’m allegedly a comic.”

He often makes himself the butt of his jokes.

Despite his self-doubt as an actor, he did pretend to draw and paint on Good Times.

“I am the worst drawer. I can’t draw a straight line with a ruler, I can’t draw a stick figure,” he said.

While on the topic of his sitcom, Walker also mentioned that outside of the show, he was not close with his cast members.

“I think because we were so different. We never

Right: During the show J.J. performed a bit about the ‘Maury’ show. He played all three characters, the pregnant girl, the guy who is the supposed father, and Maury. In the picture he is Maury and reading that this guy is not the father but that the show will continue to search the country for the father.

did anything together,” he said. “And I’m still in the low-life comedy business.”

Before the end of the evening, he had a question and answer session with the audience.

Walker warned them not to ask about his catch phrase “Dyn-o-mite!” and requested the lights be turned on.

The audience asked a variety of questions. They got a chance to learn about the comedian they still see on reruns. It was a chance to experience something different, with the convenience of going to a local theater.

“Still as funny as he was on Good Times,” audience member Becky Sieg said.

Although Walker is 30 years older than his days on the sitcom, he managed to have the same distinct demeanor while performing new jokes.

“Anything else before Jimmie Walker liquidates into the cold night of Monroe?” he asked before a final question from an audience member.

At that point, he thanked the crowd for a good night and moved to the lobby of the La-Z-Boy Center for pictures and autographs.

Many audience members walked away with autographs, smiles, and memories of good times.

“You guys have been great,” Walker said before ending the evening.

Detroit show goes green, features Hybrids Casey Cheap

Copy Editor-in-Chief

Thomas Edison would be proud.

In an unlikely turn of events, this year’s North American International Auto Show (N.A.I.A.S.) in Detroit was focused on the future of the electric car.

For the younger generation of car buyers, the future was on display at Cobo Hall in downtown Detroit, Jan. 17-25.

After being chastised and embarrassed on Capitol Hill, it is a wonder the domestic automakers were there at all. But just like any year, for those few weeks in January, the show went on as scheduled.

The press conferences and free swag were cut back, as part of a measure to cut costs in a post-bailout era for the auto industry. But surprisingly enough, only Nissan Motor Co. of Japan pulled out of the auto show because of economic reasons.

Porche, Suzuki, and Ferrari were also not present, but hardly noticeable because of typically small displays those manufacturers set up. It was the second year in a row Porche has snubbed Detroit, citing “the need for more space,” The Detroit News reported.

But officials running the show quickly seized on the opportunity of having vacant areas. Because some manufacturers could be moved to the main floor, the basement at Cobo was quickly utilized as the “EcoXperience.” It was a 1/8 mile long track with about one hundred trees and landscaping to show off Hydrogen Fuel Cell and Hybrid vehicles. Rides were free to the public for those willing to wait in long lines.

Even with the unexpected absence of some automakers, unveilings and concept cars were still prominent. Although the mood and atmosphere were somewhat subdued from years past, General

Motors, Ford and Chrysler were looking to change their image with a disgusted and indifferent public.

But some still aren’t sure.

“It is the same b.s. as last year, with a few cars they are never going to build,” said college student Ryan Hoffer.

Although the public might be skeptical, GM is aggressively promoting more fuel-efficient cars such as the 2010 Chevrolet Cruze.

The General was also showcasing the much anticipated electric Chevy Volt, which is due to arrive in 2010, and the Cadillac Converj concept, which still uses Cadillac “Art & Science” design cues, but is electric.

But a concept is a concept, and 2010 may be a long way off for an industry that is struggling to generate enough revenue to get through March.

“They build one of an amazing car to show off what they can do,

but yet they will never actually build it,” said Hoffer. “It just seems like a waste of money to me.”

Ford was showing off the redesigned Ford Fusion Hybrid, which gets 41 m.p.g., more than any other hybrid in its class. The blue oval brand also used its signature show to show off the new Taurus, a car that will replace the current ho-hum model. And of course, one could not leave Cobo without seeing the redesigned Ford F-Series. It’s not exactly environmentally conscious, but it is still the king of trucks, having won North American Truck of the Year. The Hyundai Genesis was awarded Car of the year.

Chrysler finally decided to tone down the crazy antics at their Jeep display. They had a straightforward, conservative display this year. With all the talk about electric vehicles they would not be outdone, boasting an electric-powered Jeep Wrangler. Dodge also unveiled an electric concept, dubbed

Circuit EV, which is based on a Lotus Europa but still has Dodge design written all over it.

Although there was a new, green element at this year’s show, the real showstoppers were traditional American pony cars.

Over at GM, even the Chevrolet Corvette had to take a back seat to its popular little brother, the 2010 Camaro, which attracted some of the biggest crowds of any car at the show.

Ford’s redesigned 2010 Mustang was also a showstopper; and the Dodge Challenger was able to rival crowds that traditionally flock to the Viper.

Even with all the criticism, the message sent at the auto show this year was clear: Detroit can change, build environmentallyfriendly cars, trucks, fuel cell technology, lithium-ion battery technology, and still have time for the good old muscle.

B-movies provide low budget winter entertainment Marcus Akers Copy Editor

Cold weather outside affects us all in different ways.

Why not just stay warm in the first place?

The winter outdoor enthusiast needn’t read any further, for hereafter only one form of entertainment shall be discussed—the vast wealth of movies to watch when it’s cold outside.

With all the great movies out there, some of the supposedly not-so-great-ones are sadly overlooked.

Art films, camp films, public domain and general kitsch can delight and surprise the expectant viewer.

And as a bonus, in our uncertain economic climate, most of these

titles are going for “fire sale” prices. This is cheap kicks, in a cheap world.

The operative word here is cheap. Loyal Big Lots customers may regularly peruse their selection of closeout DVD’s, and of the astonishing values that can be cherry picked from the morass, a few are really too good to be called B Movies.

From heavy hitters like Stanley Kubrick’s Paths of Glory, to generational hero Dave Chappelle’s Block Party, some good ones slip through the cracks to the lowest denominator.

But the ones that do belong in the bargain bin are there for a reason: problems. Problems with direction, acting, budget, or plot.

Once these problems are identified, though, they become less problems than characteristics.

When viewed in the light of voluntary participation, they can be enjoyed without the need to seek qualities one would desire in a standard film. Fans of director Paul Verhoeven are well versed in this concept.

For the tech savvy readership, a great way to find interesting cinema at no cost at all is at publicdomaintorrents.com.

From classic camp horror and sci-fi, to poignant drama, it’s a great place to start.

Categorized by genre, all movies are available for free download in a variety of formats. PSP and PDA owners with lots of vacant memory

will appreciate the platform specific downloads.

Some titles include A Bucket of Blood, a hilariously dated look at one man’s desperate plot to break into a beatific art scene.

Vincent Price stars in The Last Man on Earth, the original and best in a trilogy of remakes including The Omega Man and I am Legend. Also available is his 1959 film House on Haunted Hill. Horror fans will appreciate the aesthetics of these movies more than the scares they provide.

The incomparable Cyrano De Bergerac, featuring the truly classically trained Jose Ferrer in the titular roll, is a movie so enjoyable that it may set a gold standard for free content. The beauty and sophisti-

cation of the writing could cast most modern attempts at tragic love stories in an unfavorable light.

Many of the other titles available are Mystery Science Theatre quality, and come with my stern warning not to choose any for date movies, unless the other person really likes you a lot.

To access these titles a torrent program is required, and one of the best in my opinion is U-torrent. Available for free at www. utorrent.com/download.php Anyone with the will to relieve the boredom of Monroe’s winter hell-scape can find refuge in cinema. It’s cost effective entertainment, which in this town makes it a definitive win.

Bride Wars Emily Chandonnet Editor-in-Chief

This predictable yet comical chick flick gets four out of five stars for its underlining truth and perspective into planning a wedding. Expected irony drops it down a star.

T.V. famed boys and romantic comedy queens fill out the bridal party cast of the movie Bride Wars.

Best friends since pig tails and cooties, Emma, played by Anne Hathaway (Devil Wears Prada, Rachel Getting Married) and Liv ,played by Kate Hudson (How to Lose a Guy in Ten Days, Fool’s Gold) are destined to fulfill their one dream together, June weddings in the Plaza.

Their dreams stop short when famous wedding planner Marion St. Claire, played by Candice Bergen (Miss Congeniality, The Women, Sex and the City), gets their weddings scheduled on the same day. Concrete dreams conflict their friendship and not even their fiancés played by Chris Pratt (Emma’s) (Everwood, Wanted) and Steve Howey (Liv’s) (Reba) and Liv’s brother Nate (Byan Greenberg, One Tree Hill, October Road) can convince them to surpass their temptation to sabotage.

Mean girl conniving creates the stream of humorous scenes and punch lines throughout the movie twisted in with what would seem like over dramatized wedding planning. Alongside comical scenes is the emotional roller coaster of couples in love planning their future, mixed with family details of the past and realization of present self-worth.

In the end all works out in love and war. Even if to the perceptive eye the ending was expected, it can’t be in the least bit dull.

February 5, 2009

Sports

THE AGORA

Mayhem in Monroe

7

MCCC student competes in controversial fight Jeremy Hickey Staff

MCCC students have been knocking the competition out, literally.

Fists flying through the air with full energy stopping at nothing until coming in contact with the opponents jaw.

Bodies falling harder then bricks from a building. It’s man vs. man and the only way out is winning or losing.

This was the site at Skateway on Jan. 10 as Monroe County hosted its first cage match. The event attracted over 900 people.

“It was a lot harder than what I thought it would be” Justin White, MCCC student, said.

Many believe that White’s fight vs. Chuck Sosbe was the most entertaining fight of the night as it was the only fight of the night to be decided by judges after 3 rounds.

Many sat in silence awaiting the announcement of the winner.

None were quieter than Justin and Chuck.

One judge ruled in favor of Justin as the two others ruled it a tie.

This is when controversy flooded the area.

“The next day I got a call,” Justin explains, “they told me that the judges had actually made an error and I did win.”

The Mayhem in Monroe is set to return on March 7 and will be held again at the Monroe Multisport MMA fighters battle it out Jan. 10. at Skateway in Monroe. Monroe County will host it’s second cage fight on Complex.

March 7 at the Multisport Complex.

Photo courtesy of the Monroe Evening News

Red Wings Rant Casey Cheap

Copy Editor-in-Chief

Detroit hockey fans are a spoiled bunch.

In the last 11 seasons, it seems anything short of winning a Stanley Cup is a failed season. Then again, 17 consecutive years in the playoffs may give some a sense of entitlement.

That is where the All-Star voting comes in. It seems some fans outside of Detroit decided to stuff the ballot box this year. In doing so, those fans essentially snubbed the NHL’s reigning champions.

Of all the players who met for the All-Star game in Montreal, the Wings only had two representatives, Nicklas Lidstrom and Pavel Datsyuk, and neither were starters.

But because of injuries, neither decided to make the trip to Montreal (see Editorial, Page 2).

Considering this Wings team has talent such as Henrik Zetterberg, Johan Franzen, Chris Osgood, Marian Hossa and Ty Conklin, having just two players selected is a slap in the face.

Although it’s arguable the Wings have not been as sharp as they were last season, they certainly proved to the world they were worthy of the 2008 Cup, giving up only a handful Photo courtesy of the Detroit Free Press of wins during last year’s playoffs A dejected Chris Pronger skates away as Tomas Holmstrom celebrates his first period goal. The Wings defeated and having a stellar road record during the regular season, just as the Ducks 4-3 on Jan. 14 in Anaheim, CA. Detroit is 2-1 against their Western Conference foes this season. they have this season.

The Wings’ 32-11-7 record is pretty good, indeed. It’s far above average in the NHL. Many other sports towns in the country would love to have a franchise as consistently victorious as Detroit hockey.

And yet, it is not quite up to par with what Wings fans expect.

The All-Star break is kind of an unofficial halfway point in the season. Let’s not forget that whole element of “Cup hangover” taking place here. This team went incredibly deep in the playoffs and it’s showing. Or is it?

Shouldn’t they be tired? Well yes, and some of the losses can be attributed to that. Many of this season’s games have been decided by shootout or by just one goal. But in all fairness, the Wings still find a way to outshoot and out-skate their opponents while an explosive offense beyond neutral ice has sometimes made up for questionable defense in the Detroit zone early on. The Wings have also had quite a few come-from-behind wins.

There are subtle differences from last year though. Last season at the All-Star break the Wings had played about five more games.

That is why they had a couple more W’s, but also a couple of losses.

But back then the Wings had the best record in the entire NHL. Thus far this season, the Wings are third.

Third. Oh no. That is second in the Western Conference to their fishy rivals in San Jose and the east-leading Boston Bruins. It may be hard to know how the Wings will play

against any team in the east, however, because they don’t typically play too many Eastern Conference teams.

“They’re literally in a league of their own,” said college student Josh Lieto. “There’s really no way to tell how we’ll play against them.”

But what really needs to be pointed out is the Wings have been able to beat all of their biggest rivals in the Western Conference at least once this season. And they have never been shut out. The Wings have at least one win against potential playoff contenders in the West.

Detroit has beat the Dallas Stars, San Jose Sharks, old time rival Colorado Avalanche and the muchhated Anaheim Ducks each at least once this season.

“I think San Jose is going to be our only real competition on the way to the Stanley Cup,” said Lieto. “Calgary, the team just under the Wings in the Western Conference, is a full eight points behind us. “We’ll need to have all players healthy and the team at full strength.”

Getting there will be no easy feat. But remember 1998? Detroit is not necessarily “destined” to win the Stanley Cup every year. But there is so much talent pooled in this team. And being hungry as the defending champions never hurts, either.

Can you smell number 12, Hockeytown?

Lions stepping in positive direction with new hires Michael Crossman Assitant Copy Editor

The Lions have done it. They made the first move in this new step forward.

The Detroit Lions agreed on a four-year deal last month with Tennessee defensive coordinator Jim Schwartz to be their coach.

He will attempt to turn this 0-16

cesspool of lost athletes into a new fighting force within the already weak division.

Except did anyone remind him who the Lions are?

The same franchise that he intends to rebuild has been barrel rolling through this process since 1957. The cries of the fans have gone unanswered like an abandoned orphan.

“I think Schwartz will be a good head coach in the NFL” Ben Schreiber, MCCC student, said.

“I just don’t know if he will be what the Lions are going to need to help them. Marinelli was a good coordinator (defense) before coming to the Lions, and look at what happened. On the other hand Schwartz is bringing some good hard nose defense, so it is definitely what they

A lot of fans are worried that the Pistons are no longer one of the elite teams in the East.

“Since the trade, I just have no idea who I’m watching on the court anymore,” Jason Schneider, MCCC student, said.

“Iverson is just not meshing with Detroit basketball yet. I see an improvement in his selfish play, but averaging 15 PPG is not vintage Iverson,” he said.

Of course the Pistons cannot publicly acknowledge the apparent, that they are sacrificing today’s sorrows for tomorrow’s success, because it wouldn’t sit well with the paying ticketholders.

The draft class of 2010 looks more appealing than a supermodel buffet in Vegas. That’s not the issue with fans though. The idea of being transparent in the eyes of the Eastern Conference has got them all ruffled and uncomfortable.

“The Pistons, in their incoherent state, could not beat the Celtics or the Cavaliers in a best-of-seven playoff series. I think we will be lucky if we even get out of the first round,” Kaylynn Mc Govern, MCCC student said.

“Iverson just isn’t a Piston, and at least Joe [Dumars] made the best business decision of his entire career behind the reigns,” she said.

“It’s Ok though because we as Detroit fans cannot be continuously spoiled by the Wings and Pistons competing every year. With the moves he made we can be back into contention as soon as next year I believe,” she said.

The Pistons are getting ready to host some big games next month, starting with back to back home game against the Cavs and the Celtics, and they end the month on a four game road trip visiting these same powerhouses.

need to focus on” he said.

After taking a trip to the Senior Bowl, Schwartz made his first big move on Jan. 21 with hiring the Kansas City Chiefs’ defensive coordinator Gunther Cunningham, for the same position.

Prior to that, he spent three years (2001-03) coaching the Tennessee Titans’ linebackers under then-coordinator Schwartz. Cunningham,

who also spent two years as the Chiefs’ head coach in 1999-2000, is a straight forward defensive playcaller who shares a similar philosophy with Schwartz.

Shortly following Scott Linehan, Rams former head coach, was hired in as offensive coordinator.

“It’s all going to come down to their drafting. Either they choose to chase a quarterback, or is he

(Schwartz) going to finally address the real issues at hand.” Schreiber said.

“As a fan, I am sitting and waiting until April” he said.

Andre Smith, the OT from Alabama seems to be the hopeful from most fans, but a lot are speculating that QB Matt Stafford (Georgia) is looking tempting to the Lions.

Pistons losing dominance but seem content for now Michael Crossman Assistant Copy Editor

The Pistons have decided now is a good time to remind folks they’re not ready for the rocking chair.

They have been in a slump as of late coming off their first victory in five games. They rallied late in the fourth quarter to defeat Minnesota’s Timberwolves 98-89.

Rasheed Wallace earned a doubledouble with 25 points, 14 rebounds, and 3 blocks as he battled with Minnesota’s Al Jefferson throughout the duration of the game, only allowing him 2 points the entire fourth quarter.

“I know these boys better get their acts together,” Gary Sloan, MCCC student, said.

“This year is different. Cleveland and Boston are not playing any games. The Eastern Conference Finals are not just a free pass anymore for them [Pistons],” he said.

Photo courtesty of the Detroit Free Press

Newcomers Allen Iverson and Michael Curry react to a call during a game against the Sacramento Kings.

8 THE AGORA Peddling Dreams: Brandy Werner Copy Editor

With the rising gas prices and failing economy, students are forced to think of new, innovative ways to save money.

For MCCC full-time student, Stephen Ratliff, the concept of saving money was as easy as riding a bike.

Steve has a rather unique goal—to ride his bike around the world.

“It’s good exercise and saves a lot of money,” he said.

He rode his bike to school last semester—all the way from Flat Rock.

Steve had always wanted to travel the world. He was in a band, and they planned to do just that. But when the band’s dream fell through,

Spotlight

February 5, 2009

Falling economy creates biking ambitions for MCCC student

Steve turned to his natural alternative—bike riding.

He set out to cross the United States last year. However, he only made it the 255 miles to Chicago before his bike began to fall apart and his lack of funding forced him to abandon the idea.

“I feel like I’ve failed because I didn’t make it all the way across the country,” he said. “But I learned a lot from the experience.” Since then he has held two jobs, working hard to raise money for a new bike.

“I’ve been able to have some people donate their time to build a new rack for my bike,” he said.

Steve did not let his failed plans derail his dream. He already has plans to take off for the other side

of the country a couple weeks after Memorial Day. He plans to “couch surf”—a system where people offer their couches to travelers to sleep on during their journey. They sign up on a website, and the service is completely free. “It’s a great system,” Steve said. “You get to meet a lot of fascinating people.” He claims that couch surfing is even better than staying at hotels.

Steve’s future plans include riding his bike around the world. He is especially looking forward to traveling all around Europe and Australia.

“Right now I’m in school, learning all that I can,” he said. But once Memorial Day comes around, he will be off conquering his dreams.

255 miles Chicago

Sponsored by Student Government

Monroe

Winter Semester

Meyer Theater Entertainment

For more information and to purchase tickets online go to monroeccc.edu/ theater. Or call the Cashier’ts Office at (734) 834-4272.

Band and Chorale ‘Collage’ Concert Sunday, February 22 2:30 p.m. • 7:30 p.m.

Free A Tribute to

Bette Midler featuring

Feb. 5 - March 14 Bring in elementary school supplies to donate to local youth and schools

Collection Spots: A Building by ATM Library Foyer

Kathy Thompson Saturday, March 7 7:30 p.m.

Reserved Seating: $20 VIP Seating: $30

Remembering the Raisin:

Perspectives on the War of 1812 Thursday, March 12 Hors d’oeuvre Reception: $25 6:30 p.m.

Lecture: Free 7:30 p.m.

Magician/Comedian James Michael

Battle Bands

Friday, March 20 7:30 p.m.

Reserved Seating: $15

Student Government Corner

of the

Upcoming Events

February 21 6:00-10:00 p.m.

Health building

Want to be a Part of a Rock Band?

If you are interested in showing the world your talent, and you are a good musician, then we are in need of you. MCCC’s own, Andrew Mutter and Kyle Lockmiller are looking for someone with experience of playing electric lead guitar and are interested in continuing their passion on to higher levels.We already have places to play and many more on the way. So if you are interested please get a hold of: Andrew Mutter @ 734-915-8860 O-pcs_atm@hotmail.com

Community Service Feb. 5 - March 14 School Supplies Drive Noon Concerts: Gary Winslow Feb. 16, 11:30-1 p.m.

A Building Lunch Room

Battle of the Bands Feb. 21, 6-10 p.m.

Health Building

MC3 3on3 March Madness Tournament March 14 9 a.m.

Want to get Health Building involved on campus? $60 a team Join Student Government Ages: 15 and up All meetings: Registration Deadline - Open to the public March 2 - Every 1st and 3rd Tues. Questions? Contact Tom - Located in the Cellar Ryder 384-4201 - From 12:30-1:30 p.m.

More info to come