Family Fun Night, page 8

AGORA

Videos censored, page 6

Auto Show revs up

VOLUME 46 ISSUE 1

MONROE COUNTY COMMUNITY COLLEGE

April 7, 2004

By Nathan Lyke

Agora file photo

Audrey Warrick (right) makes a splash into the college pond with the amphibious car.

The auto show is making a comeback for the college’s 40th anniversary. On September 26, a classic auto show will be held at Monroe County Community College (MCCC). “We have people from all over [Michigan, Indiana, Ohio] who have classic cars [1975 or older] who bring their cars to the show,” Tom Ryder, activities and campus community events coordinator, said. The 500 to 1000 cars usually attracts thousands of visitors. “It’s hard to tell how many people really attend. The estimates have been as high as 10,000. I do know it is a lot. The campus is filled with people,” Ryder said. The Auto Show, sponsored by the MCCC Campus Community Events Committee, is run by staff and community volunteers.

Deans: one year contract By Taryn Kapp

During the March 22 Board of Trustees Regular meeting President David Nixon asked the Board of Trustees to renew the administrative contracts of Martha Crawmer, dean of science and mathematics; John Joy, dean of corporate and community services; Paul Knollman, dean of business; William McCloskey, dean of humanities and social sciences; Patrick Nedry, dean of industrial technology; Gail Odneal, dean of health sciences effective July 1, 2004 through June 30, 2005.

According to Nixon, this is a 12 month process to examine the efficiency of the current structure. Efficiency of resources and making the best use of available funding resources will be a focus, along

To raise money there will be t-shirt sales, concessions, antique exhibitor space rental, and swap meet space rental. “In the end, we don’t make a profit, but hope to cover the cost of putting on the show,” said Ryder. Anyone interested may attend free of charge. An antique show will be held in the Gerald Welch Health

“ ” We’re not used to this kind of change.

Agora photo by Lee Yoas

David Waggoner, professor of chemistry

with academic excellence, student service, and community service. “By January of next year, we’ll have recommendations whether or not the structure should be changed. Other

By Kellie Vining

Photo courtesy of Annie Germani

Sue Wetzel serves as councilwoman for 6th district.

the good thing about pursuing a degree in journalism; it can lead to many other career choices,” Wetzel said.

Education Building’s Multipurpose room from 9 a.m. until 4:30 p.m. for $3 a ticket. The auto show will run from noon until 4:30 p.m. “You’re telling me there will be bands playing, food, and cars? I’m there,” Christopher VanWasshenova, MCCC student, said.

community colleges have different structures than ours. We’re going to examine those models to see what would be the best for this college. But to do that, as a technicality, we needed to issue one year

contracts instead of three year contracts,” Nixon said. Several focus groups are going to be conducted. They will be four to six hours of

see Deans, page 7

Wetzel expands horizons Sue Wetzel is a wife, mother of three, an administrator at Monroe County Community College (MCCC), Executive Director of MCCC’s Foundation, and councilwoman of Monroe’s 6th District. She also serves on numerous other boards. Wetzel received her bachelor’s degree in journalism and broadcasting from Central Michigan University and her Masters degree in Public relations from Michigan State. “My journalism degree led me into Public Relations. That’s

Agora file photo

The 1932 Ford Deuce Coupe Sedan is one of the classic automobiles featured at the show.

Serving as city council representative is like a continuation of Wetzel’s education. “I feel like I am back in school again; there is so much to learn about local government. There is much more involved in running the city than I first imagined. It’s a big job that takes up a lot of my personal time, but it is very rewarding,” Wetzel said. Wetzel’s concern for education and children is a large part of why she juggles such a busy schedule.

see Wetzel, page 7

Senator Debbie Stabenow (left) speaks with Patrick Nedry, dean of industrial technology (right), during her visit.

Stabenow visits By Lee Yoas

U. S. Senator Debbie Stabenow D-Michigan, spoke before a group of administrators,staff, business personnel and Monroe County Community College (MCCC) board members March 18 in the cafeteria. Dr. David Nixon introduced Stabenow to two of MCCC key players in the Global Engine training program: Patrick Nedry, dean of industrial technology and John Joy, dean of corporate and community services. Stabenow said she was looking forward to touring Global Engine. “I visited another western Michigan town where they said nobody is coming to Michigan any more, no new plants are being built. ‘Excuse me,’ I said, ‘Tomorrow I’ll be in a community who has managed to do not one, but two.’”

Stabenow also spoke about the United States exporting jobs. “We can’t compete without focusing on education,” Stabenow said. “Job training such as that being done at MCCC with Global Engine. We need technology development, research and innovation. Part of competing and improving our standard of living is to focus on education. This is a personal priority for me from k-12 and access to college for the traditional and non traditional students,” she said. Global Engine will be the combined effort of Daimler Chrysler, Hundai, and Mitsubishi. “What we do in Michigan is make things and grow things,”

see Visit, page 7

2

Opinion

Agora

Time reveals perspectives By Crystal Pierce

I’ve always heard, “Time heals all wounds.” I lost my father on November 16, 1997. Even then, I believed that statement was true. Everyone told me, “It will be okay.” I have spent the last six years trying to convince myself that I am “okay.” I’ll admit that, at first, I was a total mess. I couldn’t make simple decisions, like what to have for dinner. However, my state was expected, understood. But soon, I tried to channel my sadness, my confusion, my rage at having my best friend stolen from my life into some constructive endeavors. I worked hard at my job and toward my education, driven significantly by my grief. People told me, “Your dad wouldn’t want you to be sad.” So I’ve tried to make him proud of me. I think of him every day, and I try to live and treat others in the kind, compassionate way in which he did.

At first, I was so furious that a man, who drove after drinking, could strike my father with his pickup and leave him there to die. It was unbelievable to me. Time passed though, and I thought I should and could forgive him. After all, who am I to judge him? I had convinced myself that I wasn’t (or shouldn’t be) angry anymore. Similarly, I was convinced that time had healed my wounds, that I was “better,” now that years had passed. After all, I was functioning. I don’t cry every single day anymore, or at the slightest mention or thought of him. I had changed from a girl who couldn’t handle a single college class while dual-enrolled in 1998 to the woman who is enrolled full-time and earned the position of newspaper editor. I even learned not to overreact when my truck’s windshield wipers failed, since my dad isn’t here to fix them. I still swerve as I drive home to avoid approaching with my

tires the very place where my father spent his last living seconds, but I don’t break into hysterics every time I pass there like I used to. So time has changed me. But even with all this progress, I’ve realized (and finally admitted) that I am not okay! I am still furious with the irresponsible person who left my dad on the side of the road. I am still so sad, in agony that my dad cannot be here today. I am suddenly so weary of pretending everything is ‘okay” like so many promised it would be. S o, time doesn’t heal all wounds. I think the pain I still feel is proof of that. What time does, however, is provide perspective. It gives us the tools for coping with the pain that comes with loss. It allows us to function, and to learn from others’ mistakes and our own. Time helps us learn to accept things, but it doesn’t make them go away.

Wall s e p a r a t e s neighbors

Courtesy of www.bobmay.info

A man stands next to the security wall. The tallest parts of the wall are 25 feet high.

By Dan Burnard The next famous modern-day wall is being built in Israel. The number of Israeli deaths from terrorist bombings and the years of violence prompted its building. When completed, the Israeli government plans the wall to be about 400 miles long, cost $1.3 billion, contain state of the art technology, and completely separate Israelis from Palestinians. Many have raised the question,”What will a wall signify for these two people?”

According to cnn.com, Palestinians note that the security wall does not follow the “Green Line,” the area between Israel and the West Bank, before the 1967 Mideast war. This places thousands of Palestinians on the opposite side of the barrier, blocking the interaction of families, schools, farmlands, and products. Others argue that a wall is not the answer but a way for Israel for to control Palestinians. It has earned the nickname, “The Next Berlin Wall” because of this.

Although drastic, I believe this to be Israel’s best idea. If you learn from history, then you know what does and does not work. The numerous cease fires and treaty talks have only resulted in more deaths. This solution of diplomacy has become stagnate in Israeli politics, and insane when considering the radical organizations in that region of the world. What Israel needs is something different, radical, and almost guaranteed to work. Therefore, they decided upon a solution that has been in use for centuries and has a long record of working. I believe in people’s rights to protect themselves from threats, inside or outside their borders. Though more planning is needed in the building of the security wall, Israelis are on the right track. I am saddened when I read on the front page of newspapers or hear on news channels about another attack in Israel. Clearly this must be stopped, and the normal means have failed. A wall may hinder interaction between two neighbors, but in this case, it’s a solution.

The Agora Editorial Policy The Agora is published by the students of Monroe County Community College, 1555 South Raisinville Road, Monroe, Michigan, 48161. The editorial office is located in 202 of the Life Science Building, (734) 384-4186, agora@monroeccc.edu. Editorial Policy: Unsigned editorials represent the majority opinion of the Agora staff. Signed columns represent the opinion of the writer. All letters-to-the-editor must include a signature, address, and phone number for verification purposes. The Agora reserves the right to edit for clarity, accuracy, length, and libel. The Agora is a student-managed newspaper that supports a free student press and a member of the Michigan Community College Press Association, the Michigan Collegiate Press Association, the Michigan Press Association, the Community College Journalism Association, College Media Advisers, and the Student Press Law Center.

Mark Bergmooser, Adviser

April 7, 2004

Senior moments By Terri McConnaughey

Upon hearing the news that my paternal grandmother passed away last May, at age 93, I did what I usually do when upset, I wrote. I wrote a story packed with memories of the inventive ways she kept us busy when we spent weekends with her. She would bribe us to sleep at night with a quarter. The next day we would dress up in her clothes and clip-clop to Mr. Martelli’s store, where candy was a penny apiece. Twenty-Five Pieces Times Four Little Girls told the tale of four granddaughters. I made copies of the story for her funeral, but there was so much I left out. Like the joy of getting to know her in her senior years, and hearing about her childhood, growing up in the hills of Tennessee. It’s the quirky things about our families we learn when talking to our elders. Things like no running water, hog-butchering day, and that great grandpa was shot and killed, (no one really knew why). Or how they had to keep their food in caves, stored inside lard buckets, since there was no refrigeration. My maternal grandmother is 95, and in failing health, however her mind is still as quick as a bunny. She has her own tales to tell, and came from a very different background.

This grandmother worked in public life. Her last job was a secretarial position for the government. Yet she still managed to make childhood special. We baked, and cooked Sunday dinners. She would even swim in the pool with us. Etiquette was important. She would take me out on her lunch hour and teach me proper manners. I learned how to set the table, the correct way to introduce people, and many other social skills. She is still a classic. It killed her to give up her high heels when her arthritis twisted her toes. She sits regally in her wheelchair, but will still tell a snappy joke. Once a week she has her hair done, and a manicure—makeup is a given. She is nearly blind, but still manages to live alone, with a support system. Time passes so quickly. We all need to take a trip over the river and through the woods. Talk to your grandparent’s; find out what they were like at your age. They will be thrilled that you care, and took time to let them tell their stories. Tape your conversations, either on video or cassette. Don’t wait to write a story after they are gone— tell them now how they impacted your life.

Bob Oliver’s

Twist

Monroe for Peace: 2004 By Bob Oliver

There were no arrests or gassings. No film crews or bull horns or fires. There was really no reason a local protest should have filled a majority of the front page of the local newspaper. Yet, there it was. Another protest and photo on the front page of the Sunday News: more outcries for peace in the aftermath of a controversial war. There were less people, if I remember correctly, then there was last time, but they still showed up in the rain. Many were older, but a few younger individuals showed up too. The last time I witnessed a rally downtown was March 15, 2003. This was five days before “major” combat in Iraq began. Many minds were undecided then; including my co-writers on the story. We decided to write, but technically weren’t assigned to do. On that day, the papers said war but thousands around the

world said peace. The news networks filled their every frame with doctors and generals and parents and politicians and seemingly anyone else who had something to say about what was Right and Necessary. I vividly remember words like “unpatriotic” being thrown around toward anyone who had anything but rave reviews for the possible conflict. Not just in the media, but even between students and peers, where many knew they had loved ones that would be fighting, so any objections from civilians seemed wrong. This was a month or so before Jessica Lynch and only weeks after Colin Powell showed the UN photos from airplanes containing trucks which housed moving biological weapons plants and various other bad things.

see Bob, page 7

April 7, 2004

Campus News

Agora

3

StricklandselectedGrand Marshal of commencement This year six faculty members were nominated by their peers to hold this position. They were: D r. K a r e n B r o o k , professor of nursing; Cheryl M c K a y, professor of accounting; Patrick N e d r y, d e a n o f t h e industrial technology division; Gail Odneal, dean of the health science division; Grant Strickland, associate professor of English; a n d R o b e r t Ta r r a n t , professor of accounting and general business. The Grand Marshal leads the processional at graduation. Selected by peers, the Grand Agora photo by Jenna Koch Grant Strickland, associate professor of English, browses through Marshal is a full time the campus book store. faculty member who is admired by their colleagues By Jenna Koch member to hold the for both their academic and E a c h y e a r M o n r o e ceremonial position of Grand personal excellence. County Community College M a r s h a l at the Patrick Nedry felt (MCCC) selects a faculty commencement ceremony. honored by his nomination.

“It is gratifying to be nominated amongst several long-serving and outstanding faculty.” Nedry said. Nominee Cheryl McKay was surprised to realize how long she has been at MCCC, but looks fondly on the many years spent, first learning, and then teaching here, and feels that her continued involvement and enthusiasm for the college is what led to her nomination. “Monroe County Community College gave a start to many of us who wouldn’t have had a chance if we didn’t have the college. MCCC has changed lives, mine included. This college means a great deal to me,” McKay said. Grant Strickland, who has been selected as this year’s Grand Marshal, is looking forward to enjoying the graduation ceremony without the pressure of actively working. “My role will be, I hope, to make it to the stage and

vegetate there until someone tells me to leave. At the end of winter semester I am so tired that I just want to sit and enjoy the spectacle. I was on stage to help read the graduates’ names for 17 years, and in 1977 I gave the commencement address. Now I am well content to watch the parade,” Strickland said. Strickland feels his nomination and selection have come from his unwavering commitment to teaching here, and the passion he feels for everyone he comes in contact with. “I have found great joy for 37 years in working with people here. I seem to see some kind of divine spark in virtually every person. I feel deep joy as I see all the graduates at commencement. As they walk by, I feel how beautiful all their faces are,” Strickland said.

Weipart receives honor Bands to rock MCCC By Mike McHone

On April 17th, the Monroe County Community College will be putting on a rock show in the H building’s multi purpose room (gymnasium). Some of the diverse bands that will be performing at the show include Boston based Lucia Lie, Ypsilanti’s own The Submarines, and hometown bands The Harborlight and Fastluck. Aren Willingham, president of the MCCC student government, was instrumental in putting on the show. “Last year, I tried putting on the show for a homeless benefit,” Willingham said. However, those plans fell through, and now the show will be used to raise money for the new Business building on campus.

Fast Facts The new Cyber Cafe is available in the Campus Cafe; two computers with internet capabilities are available. Thanks to Brian Lay and the Information Systems Department for having MCCC studnets in mind.

Photo courtesy of The Submarines

Andy Breakhart, lead singer and guitarist for The Submarines, is one of the musicians slated to perform.

“I helped organize the Battle of the Bands last year,” Willingham said. “Now that I’m president, it was a little easier putting this together.” Fans of small venue concerts and various types of

music should look forward to the show. Lucia Lie is, as Willingham states, an “art rock” outfit, employing cellos and extremely loud guitars, while The Submarines are 90s proto punk mixed with emo. Fastluck is a group of young high school students who, under a different moniker, won last year ’s Battle of the Bands. The Harborlight is Willingham’s band. He, along with his brother, formed the band not too long ago. He plays guitar in the band, and his brother writes most of the songs, sings, and plays lead guitar. Willingham is a selftaught musician. At press time, the bill has not been set. T-shirts may be sold. Food and beverages will not be sold. Doors open at 6:30 p.m., and the show starts at 7:00p.m. Tickets cost $7 and can be purchased at the door.

not only served as chair for five years, he helped raise money to build the Alumni Scholarship endowment and served on the Scholarship Committee. He has pulled hay rides, dug holes to plant trees and has served at a variety of concession stands over the years. Mike has always been able to come through for us when we needed help with something. He has served his college and our community with pride and professionalism. We are lucky to call him one of our own,” Beth Kohler, Coordinator of Photo courtesy www.co.monroe.mi.us Alumni and Resource Michael Weipart is a 1976 Development said. MCCC graduate. Weipart continues to remain active as the college grows. By Kellie Vining “When I am out there it Monroe County Prosecutor makes me proud. MCCC is a Michael A. Weipart will be great institution of learning. It honored by Monroe County Community College (MCCC) has grown by leaps and bounds. with the Alumnus of the Year The college has become something all residents should be Award. Weipart graduated from proud of. I am excited about the MCCC in 1976 with an new building; it is the gem of Associates of Science. He went the campus,” Weipart said Weipart will be presented on to receive a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Michigan with the Alumnus of the Year and his law degree from the Award during this year’s commencement ceremonies. Detroit College of Law. “I’m honored to receive this Weipart served as the chairman of MCCC’s Alumni award. It’s so nice to be Association Board of Directors. recognized by the college and “Mike Weipart has served the community who shaped the the College tirelessly since his career and the man I am today,” appointment to the MCCC Weipart said. Alumni Association Board of see Weipart, page 7 Directors in January 1998. He

4

Agora

LOVE’S

Feature

April 7, 2004

MAN Y STA G E S :

Young love grows up

By Kelli Massa It’s a hot, sunny afternoon. All around, pigs squeal as they roll on the muddy ground. The smell of manure overwhelms Lorryn Reilly, 12, as she watches Jeremy Langton, 14, cleaning the pig pens at the Monroe County Fair in 1996. She slips him a note along with her number, and they have been inseparable ever since. The wedding is set for Sept. 9, 2005. Over the past eight years they have molded their relationship and, most importantly, their friendship.

Langton, MCCC alumnus, spent a romantic weekend in St. Louis. After receiving permission from her father, Jeremy, 21, went down on one knee and proposed to Lorryn, 19 at their favorite Italian restaurant. Afterward he gave her a dozen long stem roses with a card saying “I love you fiancé,” and read her a poem he wrote. “After being with her so long it starts to hurt when we’re apart. And you start to realize how big of a deal it is to be together,” Jeremy said. Dorothy, MCCC alumnus, and Greg Speer, MCCC student, have been married for 17 years and feel Photo courtesy Lorryn Reilly the most important thing about Lorryn Reilly and Jeremy Langton cherish time spent together. marriage is being true to yourself and not regretting your decision to get married. “We will be able to teach our kids the same Neither Lorryn nor Jeremy has been involved teachings, not be arguing about what is right and in any other serious relationship. Although they wrong,” Lorryn said.

“ ” After being with her so long it starts to hurt when we’re apart.

have no one to compare the other person to, both feel this has made their love stronger because it Photo courtesy Jeremy Langton Lorryn Reilly and Jeremy Langton met in 4-H at the 1996 allows them to focus more on each other. “I don’t regret not dating anyone else. And Monroe County Fair. They are each other’s best friend, and who doesn’t it’s a big thing for me to not live my life in regret,” Lorryn said. want to marry their best friend? Both come from Catholic families, which adds “If I could have a maid of honor and a groom in one it’d be him. He could hold my flowers and marry to the relationship. They attend church together every Sunday and realize how important beliefs, me at the same time,” Lorryn said. In Feburary 2003, Lorryn Reilly, Monroe County morals, and faith will be while spending the rest of Community College (MCCC) student, and Jeremy their lives together.

“Sharing doesn’t mean just living together or dividing the finances. It also means sharing life, and this ultimately means thoughts and feelings,” Greg Speer said. Although Jeremy is especially looking forward to Lorryn cooking for him, they agreed on a long engagement so they have time to plan for the wedding and the future. This also gives Lorryn a chance to finish school, which Jeremy fully supports. “Jeremy said to me ‘I want you to have the wedding of your dreams and I don’t want you to sacrifice anything,’” Lorryn said.

Motorcycle awareness The most dangerous place follow respectfully,” Dan Rock, By Terri McConnaughey for any rider is intersections, Monroe Country Community In 2003, Monroe County according to The Department College student said. Sheriff’s department handled 41 of Motor Vehicles (DMV). While mirrors help in letting motorcycle accidents; 30 Keeping the headlight on, and the rider see what is behind them, resulted in injury, while 11 were wearing bright clothing alerts it is also necessary to check blind uninjured, spots when Annamarie changing lanes. O s m e n t , A car could be s e r v i c e s passing the information motorcycle and technician for the rider might the Department not see it. of Traffic Turning the head Office, said. to the side, and Motorcyclists checking both need to be lanes is aware of what imperative. they can do to Keeping Agora photo by Terri McConnuaghey avoid a d i s t a n c e For their safety motorcyclists are encouraged to not ride p o t e n t i a l l y next to cars or trucks. b e t w e e n serious accident. drivers of an approaching vehicles is also important. If an “It is hard to see something motorcycle. The rider must also automobile makes a mistake, this you are not looking for, and most pay attention to cars coming up extra space gives the rider time drivers are not looking for from behind at a stop, they to react and somewhere to go. motorcycles,” the Michigan might not see the bike soon “I don’t drive slow when I’m Motorcycle Manual states. enough to stop safely. next to [motorcycles]. I’ll drive There are precautions bike riders “Sometimes they will follow close to cars, but I drive very far should take advantage of in a bit too close, but I think if they behind motorcycles,” Emily order to be seen. are a Harley person, they will Jaworski (MCCC) student said.

Six simple steps to fixing a flat By Dannica Michaud For those of us who don’t have Fix-A-Flat or AAA it is important to know how to change a flat tire. Step 1: Loosen the lug nuts (don’t take them off completely). This is because it’s safer and easier to perform this task with all four tires on the ground. Step 2: Jack up the car (near the tire that is flat). Jack it up for just enough room so the tire can be taken off. Most vehicles come equipped with a jack in the trunk, which should have instructions on how to use it. Step 3: Finish taking off the lug nuts and remove the tire.

Make sure to keep the removed lug nuts. Drag or roll the flat tire out of the way of traffic, and yourself. Step 4: Put the spare tire on. Replace lug nuts and hand tighten. Before mounting make sure to line up the holes in the rim to the tire threads. Put spare tire on, hold in place, fasten one lug nut onto thread, and hand tighten. Going clockwise, skip a thread and replace lug nut. Repeat in this fashion until all lug nuts have been replaced. Step 5: Lower car and tighten lug nuts as tight as you can. Step 6: Clean up. Put the flat tire in the trunk. Also put the jack, lug nut remover, and flashlight away.

Feature

April 7, 2004

Agora

5

WalkAmerica: 34 Singlemothershear years and trekking school bells once more

By Taryn Kapp “Use your feet to give premature babies a hand.” That is the slogan for the March of Dimes WalkAmerica taking place on Sunday, April 25 at 9 a.m. The six mile walk begins at Munson Park in Monroe, travels along the River Raisin to the MultiSports Complex and comes back to the park. According to Candice Zmijewski, Monroe WalkAmerica Representative, tents are set up along the route to motivate walkers and provide them snacks and other goodies. When walkers return to Munson, everyone enjoys the finish with more food and fun. “Checkpoints along the route offer motivation and refreshment to walkers. A new addition this year is a canine checkpoint for our four-legged friends who decide to use their feet to give premature babies a hand,” Zmijewski said. About 700 community members participate in the walk each year. People can walk and raise money individually or as a team. If

By Lee Yoas

Photo courtesy of Candice Zmijewski

Participants in the WalkAmerica come from all over the area to support the cause.

walking is not an option, a person can volunteer his time to register walkers, staff checkpoints and offer refreshments. If someone is unable to finish the six miles, military Humvees will stop to pick up those in need of a rest. WalkAmerica, which has been going on for 34 years, is the March of Dimes biggest fundraiser, and it supports research and programs to help prevent or treat premature birth, birth defects and other threats to babies health. “Early in 2003, the March of Dimes launched launched its five-year prematurity campaign. Mercy Memorial recognized the

need to work with the March of Dimes on this issue, and signed on to be the sponsor of this campaign in Monroe County, ” Karen Lemerand, Communcations Coordinator at Mercy Memorial Hospital, said. As a reward, the walker who raises the most money wins a hotel stay. If anyone would like to participate in WalkAmerica, sponsor envelopes are available in the Agora room and the Fitness Center. “WalkAmerica’s a great day to come out and support a great cause,” Zmijewski said.

Summer hike to fight breast cancer By Dannica Michaud Jessica Black, a 2002 Monroe High School graduate and Alma College student is raising breast cancer awareness. She is working on raising a minimum of $2000 for the Breast Cancer 3-Day walk. This 60 mile walk will be taking place in August. The net proceeds will support breast cancer research, education, screening, and treatment through the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation and the National Philanthropic Trust. Black decided to do this after her mother, Kathy Black-Thies, was diagnosed in March 2003 after a routine check up, and is now cancer free. “This is a wonderful way to honor my mother and other breast cancer survivors, and to remember all those who

Black said. It is not only lost their lives to breast cancer,” Black’s goal to raise $2000 Black said. to help the fight against In order to raise money breast cancer, but to Black is sponsoring many continue raising awareness events. There were lectures on in the community. For more breast cancer, how to do self information about Black’s examinations, and a loose campaign, donations, and change and pop can drive at the breast cancer visit Alma campus, which raised www.the3day.org. $250. Black and her mother are also sponsoring a motherdaughter dinner on May 8 at the First Presbyterian Church of Monroe. All proceeds go to Black’s campaign. As of March 20, $900 has been raised. “Breast cancer is not a disease of just older women, it can be Photo courtesy of Bill Barnes found in women in their Jessica Black, Kathy Black-Thies, twenties, and if found Larry Thies last August, after Kathy early the chance of was diagnosed and treated for breat survival is increased,” cancer.

The hand that rocked the cradle is now turning the pages of text books. Single moms are returning to the classroom to further their chances of securing a better lifestyle for themselves and their children. Gail Krupa is a mother of a two-year-old girl and had planned to go to Americus in California, but opted to attend Monroe County Community College (MCCC) because the tuition is more cost effective. “Taking economics and French II is keeping me quite busy,” Krupa said. Art classes are also an important part of her curriculum, working with water colors is something she enjoys doing. She has an associates degree in fine arts and as soon as she

Agora photo by Lee Yoas

Honesty Clark reads to her three year old son Austin.

completes some more studies she is hoping to be accepted at Eastern University in Ypsilanti or University of Michigan in Ann Arbor to study Art Education. Danielle Hoga is a single mother who is in her second year of the nursing program. “Being the mother of three active children, whose ages range from 14 to two and keeping up with the heavy study load of the nursing program is quite a challenge.” Hoga said. “Working full time and on

see Mothers, page 7

Students choose truth, integrity By Jenny Creekmore Almost everyone does it; telling a little white lie to get out of a situation. But some lies become bigger and then become a huge ball of lies tumbling down a mountain, waiting to explode and let the truth out. Why do people lie? This is a question that many people wonder. According to w w w. s c i e n c e n e t . o rg ,

school and eventually crack and not do their homework. This is where a little white lie comes. Students tell the teacher that “My printer broke” or “I had two huge reports due in other classes.” These lies don’t always fly but some college students do admit to having done it at least once. “I lie at least once a day. I do it to get myself out of situations so I don’t look bad. But afterwards I feel bad

“ ”

I lie about stupid things. I don’t even realize I’m doing it sometimes.

sociologists and psychologists think it’s an indicator of the extent to which we have evolved. As children acquire language, they learn to cooperate with others and learn deception, in order to survive in society. They see lying as an irrefutable value in human culture, for the ability to deceive one’s peers has evolved into one of the most advanced and powerful cerebral functions. Many college students have the pressures of both work and

because I tend to think about it all day,” Eric Saliba, Monroe County Community College (MCCC) student said. People tend to lie when they are in a situation they don’t like. Situations can do that to a person. Even the most honest person may have a hard time telling the truth when they know it will hurt themselves or someone else. One of the hardest things about being

see Truth, page 7

6

A&E

Agora

April 7, 2004

“Dead” thrills movie-goers By Bob Oliver

Photo courtesy of britneyspears.com

Britney Spears’ “Toxic” video was pulled from MTV during prime time hours.

MTV pulls videos at primetime By Andrea Poteet Janet Jackson’s Super Bowl “wardrobe malfunction” continues to cause ripples of knee-jerk censorship, months after the incident occurred. In one of the more dramatic responses, MTV voluntarily pulled seven music videos from its prime time line-up. According to Rollingstone.com, six of the videos; Britney Spears’ “Toxic,” Blink 182’s “ I Miss You,” Maroon 5’s “ This Love,” Ludacris’ “Splash Waterfalls,” Cassidy’s “ Hotel,” and The Ying Yang Twins’ “Saltshaker” were censored because of sexual content. Incubus’ “Megalomaniac” was pulled for its political content, including religious imagery and scenes including Hitler. “I disagree with them eliminating anything,” said Monroe County Community College (MCCC) student Tennery Hicks. She added that MTV’s decision was made to “calm public outrage at the moment.” “Suddenly they got a conscience or something,” Kelyn Dillon, MCCC student said. “Point blank, [they did it] to save face.” Jackson’s stunt had numerous other effects. The U. S. House Energy and Commerce Committee recently approved a bill that will raise fines for indecency to $500,000 per offense. In addition, the Academy Awards were broadcast with a five second delay to avoid such mishaps, and Clear Channel Radio suspended Howard Stern from its channels. MTV has reintroduced six of the seven censored videos, most of them in sanitized versions.

Now that the prevailing quality of all movies seems to be spiraling downward at an overwhelming speed, it may be time for audiences to begin paying more attention to the often ignored genre of horror movies. The newest and most popular movie in this field is the remake of the 1978 film “Dawn of the Dead,” which recently opened in theaters. Originally a feature-length bloodbath showcasing the effects of a world overridden with mindless corpses roaming the land in search of the living flesh, this remake has many similarities to its predecessor (mainly the gore) but also has updated effects to woo and frighten viewers. As in every movie of this ilk, the kinetic cadavers are killing the town folk, and the story focuses on a small collection of people trying to escape them. This is not a new idea. Hundreds of decoys have been filmed in this fashion since the cult classic “Night of the Living Dead” was released in the mid-1960s. The difference is that the humans now have a bigger problem to deal with, outside of the sheer

number of dead. They now contend with thousands of cretins who are arguably more realistic in their deadness than characters in past horror films. No longer the slouching goons of past who couldn’t keep up with a 1984 Tempo with one working cylinder and the parking brake engaged. These zombies now sprint and dart with the athleticism of jungle cats—ones that are covered with the rancid stains and stench of the living undead, of course. This presents obvious problems for the living of course, but then again, what would life be without these little obstacles? The gore is rampant, but somehow more humorous on the surface than other movies. More will likely laugh at the sight of a zombie being side swiped by a sedan than cry hysterically and change religions. As a whole, this is not “Citizen Kane,” but then again it’s not “Gigli.” And while it’s not “Pee Wee’s Big Adventure,” it’s not “The Exorcist” either. It could be described as “Ben Hur” meets “The Blair Witch Project” with a little “Clueless” thrown in to add life to a movie about the dead.

Photo courtesy of dawnofthedead.com

Hordes of undead try to grab for Sarah Polly and Ving Rhames.

“Fat Chance” really takes the cake By Jenna Koch “The urge to get thin lingers in your system like nicotine. Years after giving it up, you’re never completely released from temptation. It’s an addiction, and you never recover, you are perpetually recovering,” says the heroine of Deborah Blumenthal’s debut novel, “Fat Chance.” Maggie O’Leary has a successful column in a New York newspaper in which she protests the diet obsession that has a tremendous hold on the bodies and souls of America’s overweight populace. Maggie is beloved by millions as America’s “anti-diet sweetheart.” Her life is in perfect order until Hollywood’s

hottest bachelor wants her help researching a role as a diet doctor, and Maggie is the only one who can help him. How can Maggie leave for Hollywood looking like… herself? Once Maggie decided to eschew her old ways and lose weight, she embarks on a distinctive journey. She not only changes her outward appearance to great extreme- but is forced to examine her lifelong thoughts and motivations, and also to decide whom she truly is, inside and out, all while hoping to woo the Hollywood heartthrob. “Fat Chance” is an unusual story to navigate. Readers get a first hand insight into the mind of Maggie, and also view her columns and occasional personal writings. The result is a mixture

of nutritional and weight-loss knowledge coupled with a Cinderella story about finding true happiness, nutritional balance, and romance in the life you already lead. At times the story is jilted, jumping from her column back to her personal life, then to another day altogether, but the overall idea is sound. Blumenthal is not only a writer, but also a nutritionist. The crumbs of nutritional and dietary information scattered throughout the book are reliable and beneficial. Readers, especially women, will relate to Maggie’s struggles to be happy with her body. In the end the reader is engaged in her struggle, and will feel as close to her escapades as if they were the reader’s own.

Maggie becomes like a close friend for the reader. As her exploits unfold, she garners cheers and sometimes anger at her actions, and like the triumphs of a friend, her happy ending is celebrated and well earned.

Photo courtesy of amazon.com

Blumenthal’s “Fat Chance” whets the appetite.

Leonardo’s dishes out delight By Victoria Schmidt “Gratzi! Gratzi!” Those were the words uttered when leaving Leonardo’s restaurant. “Leonardo’s” is an Italian restaurant with great food and an authentic atmosphere. The restaurant has soft-lighting, large comfortable booths, aged wooden tables, and grape décor to please the eye. Wine and large mirrors are the first thing to notice when entering and then from there it feels as if Leonardo’s has

transformed into Italy. Everyone is dressed a little differently. There are people in fancy black dresses, stonewashed jeans, khakis, and even handsome suits. But whatever the attire, there is an assortment of people and food to match individual tastes. Cuisine at Leonardo’s is simply amazing! Most of the food comes from recipes passed down throught the owners, Vito and Joe Liparato, family. “We built this place from nothing with our own hands. Even the food is made from the hands of our families,” Vito Liparato said.

The night started off with appetizers, calamari with roasted red peppers, and green stuffed peppers with ricotta cheese. Our waitress served salads next, which were full of assorted greens and tasty vegetables. By this time the bread, appetizers, and salads had filled everyone up. But nevertheless, the next course came. Steamy seafood pasta, juicy filet mignon with ricotta cheese, and Leonardo’s famous pizza covered our table and filled our stomachs. Last but not least came the dessert tray and since this was a night filled with food and fun, why

not? Cheesecake, lady fingers soaked in kahlua and espresso, otherwise known as tiramisu, and oreo pie completed the dining adventure. Perfecto!!!

e r s t s s

April 7, 2004 from Deans, page 1

questions, asking faculty, students, administrators, and community members their impressions of the college. Trained facilitators will take the answers and form a report. “I support it. It’s all a part of the president’s plan to make some decisions about the future,” Bill Braunlich, Trustee member, said. “Overall, I think it is appropriate for the President to review the organizational structures in place at the college to find and recommend the best way(s) to provide services to all of the students of MCCC. The review of the Deans positions should be based on what is in the best

from Visit, page 1 Stabenow said. “That is the basis of the economy. We need policies in place to help or get out of the way when necessary to let business do what they do.” During Stabenow’s visit she toured East and West Tech with Nedry and was shown the lab where two of the Global Engine trainees were disassembling an engine. “The college will benefit through experiencing the employees skills

from Bob, page 2 Those have not been found though, one year later, and the crowd made sure to state this as they walked around the famous statue. Another difference this time is that there was no counterprotest down the street and passing motorists didn’t shout profanity at them. People are so understanding now. In the end, this year’s protest only resurfaces what happened last year. It brings to mind quotes and anecdotes from “reliable” sources and weak thoughts on how much

from Truth, page 5 honest to a friend is telling them something they don’t want to hear. “I lie about stupid things. I don’t even realize I’m doing it sometimes. I find myself lying

In the Mix academic interest of all of the students. Now, just because he is doing a review of the structures I don’t believe that means there is anything at all that needs to be changed necessarily, all it is at this time is a review,” Tom Waldecker, Trustee member, said. However, there has been some concern among faculty members. “The more I learned about it, the more I didn’t like it. It could affect our curriculum, and the uncertainty is not helping the morale of the college. If the deans aren’t sure if they are going to be rehired, there might be trepidations, and they might not be good ones. It’s like being on of manufacturing medium,” plant manager Bruce Bombach said. “Understanding team work and learning techniques is a part of the curriculum, helping future graduates,” he said. Nedry added,“It is exciting for the GEMA project to be using MCCC facilities for their immediate training needs, but the longer term benefit to MCCC and our students if the commitment GEMA is making to consider for future employees only those who have earned at a minimum an associates degree.”

probation. They might be afraid to try new things. I’m not in favor of it at all,” Terry Telfer, associate professor of English, said. “I can see how they’d [the deans] be disappointed. It’s difficult because it’s been so many years since reorganization; any other changes made before have been very minor. We’re not used to this kind of change, and there is some concern among faculty members that the renewals might be a negative reflection on the dean’s work,” David Waggoner, professor of chemistry, said. Nixon, however, assures that is not the case. “It doesn’t mean they’re not doing a good job,” Nixon said.

Agora

Joy, who oversees all noncredit programs such as corporate training, on and off campus groups, and Workforce Development, believes this is healthy. “I’m surprised that we haven’t looked at potential reorganization long before now. The best organizations today are constantly assessing their business environment…and staffing needs. Why should the college be any different? I know this action has raised the anxiety level of all the deans, but I’m optimistic that whatever the Trustees decide to do regarding reorganization will be best for the College in the long run,” Joy said. The five academic deans refused to comment.

from Weipart, page 3

was just a genuine person always Weipart fondly remembers engaged in what was going on. his days as a student at MCCC. Now he’s downtown doing his “Some of the professors thing. He comes from a family that had an influence on me in the county that is well when I attended MCCC were recognized, but he hasn’t relied Bob Pettit, Doc (John) Miller, on his family name to get ahead; Frank Green, and the great he’s been his own man,” Pettit Jack Staas. All of the said. professors were fantastic While Weipart was never a people and I occasionally see straight A student, he was them now,” Weipart said. always a hard worker. Bob Pettit remembers “Study, study, study; crack the Weipart as an outgoing and books so you get good grades. personable student. If you work hard it will be very “It’s not like he was a of what was written and spoken then rewarding,” Weipart said. teacher’s pet or anything; he is a late night punchline now. Will there be a protest next year? “Getting work in the The next? Will there still be reason from Mothers, page 5construction field was something for protest? It’s tough to say with classes in anatomy, physics and that just wasn’t going to take the way things have turned out after sociology is a full time job,” she place,” Clark said. She decided the first 365 days, especially now said. to take classes at MCCC to help with Richard Clarke’s testimony and Honesty Clark is also a single her find a good job upon the upcoming election. mother working on getting her completing her requirements and Maybe it’s not too late to look associates degree in the medical receiving a degree. back to literature. It’s an extreme field. Spending five years in the “I had first thought of going thought, but then again, it has been a U. S. Navy, learning the into the field of business, but later year full of extremes in what is surely construction trade Honesty felt decided to go into respiratory the biggest and weirdest story of my she could find a good job upon therapy, as the medical field life. It’s up to the main heads how returning to civilian life. seemed to be an interesting and this story will end.

about five times a week,” Zachary Slepowronski, MCCC student, said. “I’ve lied before because I didn’t like the situation I was in. I thought if I lied it would become better, but it got worse. I felt bad. Not immediately afterwards, but

7

from Wetzel, page 1 “ I am the city council liaison for the Parks and Recreation Advisory Commission. I have young children and it is very important that our kids have quality activities,” Wetzel said. “Education is a key component to a strong city. Because I am associated with both the college and the city, I carry a perspective from both sides. It’s a good combination,” Wetzel said. John Iacoangeli, Mayor of Monroe, agrees with Wetzel. “Communities are defined by their neighborhoods, downtown, medical services and public/private schools…it is extremely important that our children have a quality and well-rounded education in the humanities and sciences,” Iacoangeli said. Wetzel takes all of her responsibilities seriously, but she holds the college close to her heart. “The word community jumps out when I think of MCCC... the college is a blessing to this community and I am proud to be apart of it,” she said. Tom Ryder added,“I’m continually amazed at how Sue continues to add and tackle new projects… she does it with such enthusiasm. I don’t know how she gets a moments rest. For the students at MCCC, Sue Wetzel is truly a model of how to conduct yourself in the workplace, the community and at home. She is one of the real champions of MCCC.” challenging occupation,” she said. Austin, her three-year-old son, goes to pre-school twice a week and the rest of the time he is attending kiddy campus while his mom is attending classes. “I do my homework while mommy does hers,” Austin said. Although these moms are overcoming many obstacles they feel their children have good role models to follow.

after I thought about it I did,” Steve Anteau, MCCC student, said. “I consider a lie as something that isn’t the truth or is only part of the truth. I look back and realize I have really grown up since I’ve been in college,” Anteau said.

DEARBORN Summer classes begin May 10, 2004 Fall classes begin September 8, 2004 Earn a nationally acclaimed University of Michigan bachelor’s or master’s degree by commuting to the conveniently located Dearborn campus. Attend small classes taught by distinguished faculty who are committed to student success.

www.umd.umich.edu

313-593-5100

8

Agora

Spotlight

April 7, 2004

Children experience Family Fun

Family fun night held Fri, March 26, is an annual event sponsored by MCCC Student Government. Parents and Children come to partake in numerous activities including face painting, educational activities, and games.

Agora photos by Taryn Kapp