5-2-2003

AGORA MONROE

COUNTY

COMMUNITY

2003 Spring Picnic Page 8

COLLEGE ISSUE 10

May 2, 2003

VOLUME 45

Warrick’s career commences

By Crystal Pierce Page Editor

Monroe County Community College’s (MCCC) third president will retire this June.

But, much like graduation for students is a commencement, not an end, Audrey Warrick’s retirement will bring new beginnings as well.

Warrick smiled as she expressed her excitement about

the opportunities that have yet to reveal themselves. She posed graciously for pictures, touring the campus as she spoke about entering the newest phase of her life.

MCCC’s president will be giving the commencement address for the graduates of Mason High School. She said that she and the students have something in common.

“It’s like starting a new life…we’re both at the end of one piece, but at the beginning

of a whole bunch of unknowns and new things…for me it is an exciting time,” Warrick said. “As much as I will miss all the people…I’m very comfortable with the decision. There are so many things that I’ve never had the time to try out. You know, it won’t be rocking chair time.”

Warrick is planning to take it easy over the summer, and then she will begin in September to plan the rest of her life.

“I’m going to make like the old faculty days, and I’m just

going to play as much golf as I feel like playing, like I’m a teacher with the summer off,” Warrick said. “We are going to take the month of January and go to Australia and New Zealand. We like to travel, my husband and I.” The Warricks have postponed this trip, because they wanted to have four weeks to commit to it. As MCCC’s president, Warrick has had

see Warrick, page 7

The Race is On...

Search advances

By Joe McIntyre Copy Editor

T

SAE

Photo courtesy of John White

The Society of Automotive Engineers competed at the SAE Congress (“a world-wide event for engineering”) and came in fourth place according to Patrick Nedry, Dean of Industrial Technology.

“Perseverance is the Key to Success”

By Melanie Goetz Reporter “Perseverance is the Key to Success”-appropriately addresses the 2003 Graduating Class, as excitement, nervousness, and preparations of the event begin to unfold.

“I knew I would be graduating this spring, but did not think anything of it until I received my cap and gown; that’s when it really sunk in. Though it is a time of prosperity, success, and completion—it also saddens me

because I am very fond of the faculty and students here at Monroe County Community College (MCCC), but I am looking forward to the change and challenge,” MCCC student Marcia Halason said.

The 36th Annual Commencement Ceremony will be held in the Gerald Welch Health Education Building on Friday May 2, at 8 p.m. The doors will open at 6:30p.m. Guests are admitted by ticket only and need to arrive before 8pm. A professional photographer will take pictures as graduates cross the stage and will also be available for

“portrait style” pictures for any students interested from 6:30-7:30 p.m. They will be contacted at a later date to order their pictures but may keep the proofs at no charge. Students will have a chance to attend a rehearsal for the ceremony the same day in the Health Building, Friday May 2, at 2pm.

“I recommend that all students planning to go through the commencement ceremony attend the rehearsal so they know what to

see Graduation, page 7

he Presidential Search Committee met on April 15 to begin the training process for reviewing applicants for the new presidency.

Those involved in this process are Board of Trustee Representatives: Committee Chair Marge Kreps, Michael Meyer, and Mary K. Thayer; Administrative Representative: Paul Knollman; Faculty Representative: Dr. Karen Brooke; Maintenance Representative: Jeff Harbaugh; Support Staff Representative: Chris Sims; Student Representative: Jeff Guthrie; Community Representatives: Honorable Joseph Costello, Jr. and Doug Chaffin; K-12 Representative: Don Spencer.

Dr. Abel Sykes from the Association of Community College Trustees told the committee they are beginning an “invigorating, challenging, and long process.” Their number one objective is to review and recommend to the board a person to run Monroe County Community College (MCCC.) The committee discussed things to keep in mind while reviewing the applications.

Sykes asked, “What is the committee looking for in a new president?” Responses varied from a collaborative leader to someone who can do more for less. They also suggested someone who can maintain and increase the enrollment base at MCCC so that it could be competitive with other

see Search, page 7

EDITORIAL

The Agora

page 2

Monroe County Community College

WAC program Affirmative Action proves priceless awakes Americans Jenna Koch

Past is prologue

In 1988, Dr. John Holladay started the Writing Across the Curriculum (WAC) program, better known as the Writing Fellows program, here at Monroe County Community College (MCCC).

“We have the support of the faculty, the administration, and the students. Several faculty members have said that, ‘this is best thing the college has ever done’,” Holladay, in his first comprehensive report, said.

Since Holladays’ reign as WAC coordinator, the program has changed. What began as tutoring by faculty has evolved into tutoring by peers. The Writing Fellows have made a tremendous impact on life and education at MCCC, and I would agree that the WAC program is the best thing the college has done.

The Writing Center is a guiding force where students refine and improve their writings, with the help of other students. Writing Fellow sessions are unlike any other tutoring process; they are about refining and improving writing, and all writers can benefit from a little fine tuning.

“A writer is someone for whom writing is more difficult than it is for other people,” Thomas Mann, German novelist and critic, said. His sentiment is exact.

Writing is hard. People think of writing as a solitary thing, but it shouldn’t be. Mark Twain once said, “The difference between the right word and the almost right word is the difference between lightening and the lightening bug.”

This is where peer tutoring can help, talking about writing, and realizing just what little things can be altered, makes any student a better writer.

Holladay realized this importance, and today Tim Dillon, Assistant Professor of English and current WAC coordinator, along with the Writing Fellows, strive every day to help the MCCC campus encourage, support, and assist all writers, in every class or discipline. With the assistance of the Writing Fellows, all students can be great writers.

MCCC helps build character

By Bethany Slovik Copy Editor Monroe County Community College (MCCC) is a small, but diverse collection of clubs, characters, and aspirations. The majority of the approximate 4000 student population come from the community, potentially threatening diversity.

The variation of people, however, and experiences held and maintained in MCCC, is never ending and constantly growing. Our campus is a home that not only allows, but encourages students to thrive and retaliate against negative odds through education and self exploration.

MCCC has student-run clubs to allow student to flourish in their studies or personal interests by appealing

to writers, math and science interests, religion, medical studies, academia, and automotive students. Our school is unlike any other because of the character blend, despite ethnicity, sex, or age, all of us are a part of MCCC, and that seems to be enough material to spark friendships, new interests, and undying dreams.

I have made my home here by participating in the Writing Across the Curriculum program, having a student assistant position, taking at least twelve credits per semester, and active in Tae Kwon Do as one of the Lifelong Learning classes offered here. Despite character clashes in discrepancies, my relationships and beliefs have only grown stronger.

The people I have met through MCCC have only added

see MCCC, page 7

By Kellie Vining Reporter Affirmative action policies are under attack in America, and the attack is right on schedule. Every 20 to 25 years crafty politicians launch an assault on policies put in place to protect women and minorities from the discrimination that exists in America.

Using politically charged words like racial preference, quotas, and reverse discrimination, opponents of affirmative action have been able to hypnotize Americans into contently ignoring the question of classism and racism in America.

America is not colorblind; we are society deeply embedded in race and racism.

Many ignore the fact that America gained its wealth and power using intense racial preference policies. Many more dismiss the overwhelming evidence of continued Jenn Stelmach

Chew on This

Dear Jenn, My years here at the college are almost up.

Everyone is telling me that I need to transfer to the next school to continue my education. But I’ve never left home before, and tell too attached to friends and family to leave. What should I do?

- Don’t wanna go Dear Don’t, I can understand where you’re coming from. It is always hard to leave people, places, and routines we are used to. However as we grow in years we must encounter change in order to grow as a person.

Change can be scary, but it can also be exciting and wonderful. Moving to a new place doesn’t mean you have to leave all of the old things behind.

You can still stay in touch with your friends and family.

And even come back and visit.

Just because you leave the county or state, doesn’t mean

discrimination and exclusion based on color and gender.

Whether consciously or unconsciously Americans exist in a perfected state of denial.

In his essay, Whites Swim In Racial Preference, Tim Wise said: “We strike the pose of selfsufficiency while ignoring the advantages we have been afforded in every realm of activity: housing, education, employment, criminal justice, politics, banking and business…At almost every turn, our hard work has been met with access to an opportunity structure denied to millions of others. Privilege, to us, is like water to the fish: invisible precisely because we cannot imagine life without it.”

The present state of America, with its wars, protests, loss of jobs, and lack of quality K-12 education makes the field prime for racial tensions.

“Working people are in such dire straits…they are looking for any scapegoat,” Dr. Terry Telfer, Professor of English, said.

We have taken affirmative

action all the way to the Supreme Court, yet Americans have not demanded that Washington and Wall Street address the loss of more than 500,000 American jobs since 911.

Dr. James DeVries,Professor of history, points to, “the loss of social justice,” for the opposition to affirmative action policies.

“This whole thing is a racebaiting game that always happens when the economy shrinks,” DeVries said. “The fact that people can’t make a living heightens tensions.

Rather than working together, we all fight for the crumbs that are left.”

The war against affirmative action will not solve the most pressing social issues in our society. It is a game of diversion played to keep average Americans distracted from the weakening state of our nation. The fight is not black vs. white. It is about access; the ruling class needs to share it with the rest of us. Wake up America.

Transfer woes b plague student that all roads and modes of transportation shut down leaving you stranded in your new surroundings. There will always be a plane, train, or bus to bring you home.

The first thing that will help you is to decide on a major if you haven’t already done that. This will give you a feeling of security by knowing what you want to do and study in the next years of your life. And it’s a big decision you can cross of your list.

Second choose a college that you are comfortable with. If you are not a big city type person,

then don’t go to Chicago. And if you do not like small towns, stay away from places like Mt. Pleasant where the college is the town.

Also, consider the amount of people you would like to attend college with. If you like small crowds a private college may be right for you. If you are more comfortable with a large number of people, a state university with thousands of people would be the better choice.

see Transfer, page 7

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-theeditor must include a signature, address, and phone number for verification purposes. The Agora reserves the right to edit for clarity, accuracy, length, and libel.

The Agora is a student-managed newspaper that supports a free student press.

The Agora is a member of the Michigan Community College Press Association, the Michigan Press Association, College Media Advisers, and the Student Press Law Center.

Mark Bergmooser, Advisor

Monroe County Community College

CAMPUS NEWS

The Agora

page 3

MASS visits Washington D.C

By Jenn Stelmach Page Editor Mr. Smith went to Washington, and so did MASS. Eight members and two advisors of the Mass and Science Society (MASS) traveled to Washington D.C. on April 3 through April 6.

“While in Washington DC, the group visited the Washington Monument, the Smithsonian Museum of Natural History, the Smithsonian Air and Space

Museum, Arlington National Cemetery, the Vietnam Memorial, the Korean War Memorial, and the Lincoln Memorial. Individuals also did other sightseeing,” Lori Bean, MASS advisor said.

This trip was made possible through several fundraisers.

“The majority of the funding that we received was from Monroe County Community College’s (MCCC) Foundation. Jamie Vick and myself submitted the grant application and we were awarded the grant. However,

Agora photo curtesy of Lori Bean

MASS members hang out eating ice cream at the Dairy Depot in Jackson, MI.

we needed to raise quite a bit more money,” Leslie Christnagel, MASS President said.

To further raise funds MASS members held several other fundraisers including a successful sale of Little Caesar’s pizza kits.

“The Math and Science Society is dedicated to the enrichment of knowledge in the Math and Science fields. For me, being a MASS member has been a wonderful experience. The people are fun and interesting and the trips are educational, but not boring. I would suggest that any student, even a non-science major, join MASS,” Christnagel said.

MASS members continuously experience both educational and entertaining events. “On January 18 MASS made a trip to the Michigan Space and Science Center, after touring the Space Center, the group met at an infamous ice cream restaurant and huge sundaes were enjoyed by all,” Bean said.

On Feb. 21, 18 members of MASS took a trip to Alpine

Agora photo curtesy of Lori Bean

MASS students take a break on the steps at Arlington National Cemetery, in Arlington VA. This was one of the many sites they saw on the trip.

Valley where they spent the day skiing, snowboarding, and hanging out in the lodge.

This year MASS also held volleyball games against Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) and Student Government as a way for students to meet new people and have a good time.

Following the games MASS provided everyone involved with plenty of refreshments while they all enjoyed a movie.

MASS is a club that anyone can join even persons not interested in math and science.

The club offers a variety of activities and welcomes all new members. For more information on MASS please contact Lori Bean, Assistant Professor of Chemistry and Biology at 3844131, Vinnie Maltese, Instructor of Mathematics at 384-4247, or Tracy Kling, Assistant Professor of Biology at 384-4213.

Lifelong Learning New club becomes official benefits students

By Korinne Milks Page Editor

By Bob Oliver Reporter Interested in basketball, soccer, Windows XP, or Tae Kwon Do? What about learning how to drive an automobile defensively or getting started in an aviation career? These courses, and many others, are offered at Monroe County Community College (MCCC) as part of the Lifelong Learning program.

The courses, which are noncredit, are taught at either the main campus or the Whitman Center and begin at the end of May. The times and fee for each course vary, and are listed in the 2003 Lifelong Learning Spring and Summer catalog, which can be picked up inside the counseling offices in the Administration building.

According to John A. Joy, The Dean of Corporate and Community Services, a majority of the courses are taught by adjunct instructors. They are professionals in their field and can keep the training up-to-date because of their first-hand

experience.

Why would someone enroll in a course that does not offer academic credit? Joy believes that that is the students’ decision. “[Some of the courses] can allow students [to be qualified enough] to enter the workforce directly out of the program. I know a few students who have gotten jobs at Detroit Edison after going through boiler training [Boiler and Power Plant Fundamentals],” Joy said.

Lifelong Learning, which is part of the Corporate and Community Services Division, is one way that the college can open its doors to the community, allowing people the opportunity to receive certification or transcripts from completed courses that could be used as building blocks to a rewarding career, or simply a beginning to a new hobby. Any individual who is at least 16-years-old will be accepted, and those under 16 must be accompanied by an adult to and from class.

For more information, call the Lifelong Learning offices at (734)384-4127, or visit the MCCC website at www.monroeccc.edu.

“…She notices something very curious as she watches out the window. Alea thinks for a moment and then she asks, ‘Daddy, why is the moon following me?’”

So begins Penny Dorcey-Naber, the Writer’s Muse founder, as she continues reading her children’s story to several members who sit in a close circle and listen attentively.

When she finishes, the members discuss strong points as well as possible improvements for the

story. Ready to hear more, the group listens as another member begins reading.

For the Writer’s Muse, this format has become routine.

Official since March 27, the new campus club has seen a growing number of members meeting every other Sunday at 2:30 in the afternoon to read poetry, prose, and anything in between.

Although it started with the work of just a few, the club already boasts a substantial and diverse group unified by the writing craft. Members e-mail their work to each other before meetings to allow time for review. The support of other

writers in this group makes the discussions unique and enjoyable.

“Our average attendance is about ten members per meeting,” Naber said. “[It] varies according to individual schedules… every meeting we tend to attract one or two new members.”

Though other clubs cease activity after the winter semester ends, The Writer’s Muse will continue through the spring and summer semesters,

see Muse, page 7

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Monroe County Community College

FEATURE

The Agora

Agora Photos courtesy of Chris Sims

Lasts years Relay for life was a great success. MCCC team Survivors, Dennis Wehner, Tim Bennett, Cheryl McKay, and Dawn Miagza celebrate their victory (top left). Annie Germani and Barb Fairhust man MCCC’s tent (top right). A portion of last years team poses for a picture (bottom left). The Luminaria are a moving tribute to both survivors and those lost to cancer (bottom right).

“ O n e d a y. . . o n e n i g h t . . . one reason...to find a cure”

By Jenna Koch Page Editor

For 24 hours between May 31 and June 1 the community of Monroe will band together to aid the fight against cancer. Teams from all over Monroe will participate in the Relay for Life.

The Relay for Life is the signature event of the American Cancer Society (ACS). Relay is a two day event where team members walk on a track during the 24-hour period, from 10 a.m.

Saturday until 10 a.m. Sunday.

This year Monroe County Community College (MCCC)

has teamed up with Old Navy and SEE & A Credit Union to sponsor a team. The MCCC team has already begun their extensive fundraising efforts, according to the team’s co-chairpersons, Annie Germani, Community Relations Specialist, Barb Fairhurst, Administrative Assistant of Corporate and Community Services and Chris Sims, Administrative Assistant to the Division Dean for Industrial Technology. The team is sponsoring many events to help raise funds (see sidebar).

Relay isn’t just about team members walking, or about earning money for ACS, Relay is

also about remembering those who have lost their battle with cancer and especially about celebrating those who have survived. Two such events to celebrate survivorship are the Cancer Survivor’s Victory Lap and the Luminaria Ceremony.

The Survivor’s Lap begins the relay. All cancer survivors are invited to take a victory lap around the track.

The Luminaria Ceremony occurs at dusk. For weeks prior to the event teams sell Luminaria, or decorated paper sacks with a glowing candle placed in side.

The paper sacks are decorated with names and are meant to

remember those who have lost their battle to cancer, and especially to celebrate survivors.

The Luminarias are placed around the track where participants can reflect on the glowing names as they walk the track. This year, according to Fairhurst, Meijer is sponsoring a newspaper page that will list all of the names presented on the Luminarias.

Everyone is encouraged to join in Relay. According to the ACS, one in three Americans will be diagnosed with cancer;

Donation Information *A bus trip to Greektown is planned for May 7. *Paper Suns and Moons which are displayed in the A Building can be purchased for a donation *Luminaria can be purchased to celebrate survivors or remember lost loved ones. *MCCC’s team will raffle a handmade porcelain doll. *Donations can be made to any team member or to the American Cancer Society For more information on bus trip, suns and moons, raffle, luminaria, or donations contact: Annie Germani at 384-4110 Barb Fairhurst at 384-5330 Chris Sims at 384-4112 Rebecca Hedge at 242-1044 or visit the ACS Website at www.cancer.org

See Relay, page 7

Quitting smoking offers many methods

By Veronica Terry Copy Editor Whether it’s done because it’s habit or because it looks cool, smoking still remains the number one cause of death among Americans.

With all the research and testing done on cigarettes, scientists and healthcare professionals have discovered just how dangerous smoking is.

Besides containing nicotine, the

addictive drug in tobacco, cigarettes contain tar, carbon monoxide and approximately 4,000 other chemicals. Each additive plays a role in destroying a smoker’s lungs and heart.

According to the Surgeon General, over 430,000 people die each year from effects of smoking, including lung cancer, heart disease, and other illnesses caused by cigarettes.

With these discoveries of the dangers of tobacco, more methods are being used to help

people break the habit. Nicotine Replacement Therapy (NRT) may be the most common method

of quitting. NRT includes nicotine gum, the patch, nasal sprays, and the inhaler (or

inhalator.) According to the Quit Smoking Support

see Quit, page 7

What medication will help you quit best?

Medications

Nicotine Gum

Number of Studies Five-month Quit Rate Placebo Success Rate Advantage

13 23.70% 17.10% Can be used to offset smoking

Disadvantage

Poor taste

Over the Counter (OCT) or prescription(Rx)

OTC

Nicotine Inhaler 4 22.80% 10.50% Mimics smoking

Zyban

Nicotine Spray 2 3 30.50% 30.50% 17.30% 13.90% Non-nicotine, Higher nicotine levels antidepressant Low nicotine Must screen Irritation, levels for seizures sneezing Rx Rx Rx

Nicotine Patch 27 17.70% 10% Private, once/day

Combination 3 28.60% 17.40% Combines benefits

Skin irritation Not FDA-approved Both

Both

Agora chart by: Veronica Terry

Monroe County Community College

FEATURE

The Agora

page 5

Reception Honors Wanda Snavely Faculty & Students

voted best of year

by Terri McConnaughy Copy Editor

Wanda Snavely was awarded Outstanding Student at the 2003 Honors Banquet on April 8.

“I’m really proud of her, she deserved it,” her daughter Chandra Snavely said.

Snavely has been a member of Phi Theta Kappa since 1997, the year she began taking classes at Monroe County Community College (MCCC).

She also tutored students in political science and is currently employed as a Special Accommodations Assistant in the Learning Assistance Lab at MCCC. “Wanda is one of those unique people who amaze me.

She will be successful at whatever she undertakes because she is a winner.

The facts on Professor Dean Kerste...

Name: Dean Kerste, Assistant Professor of Mechanical Design Technology Age: 36 Family Status: Married to wife Linda.

Has two kids, Chris and Miki Degrees: Master of Education in Career and Technology Education from Bowling Green State University, Bachelor of Applied Science from Sienna Heights University, Associate of Applied Science in Inductrial Management and Associate of Applied Science in Drafting and Design from Monroe County Community College Favorite Class to Teach: Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD & T) Mentor: The entire Technology Division and his father, Kenneth Kerste Words to Live By: “Treat people like you want to be treated. Respect people.”

Classes Kerste Teaches: Introduction to Technical Drafting Mechanical Blueprint Reading Introduction to Computer Aided Drafting/ AutoCAD Engineering Graphics Descriptive Geometry CAD Applications – Mechanical Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing Jig and Fixture Design Die Design

Outstanding Student Program: SAE

Excellence in EOS Cynthia Robinson

Constance Zarb Wanda works very hard George Rhodes Writing for her grades . . . her work Carol Kish Scholarship Fellow Award is always exemplary,” Jo Gordon McLaughlin Jamie McDonald Ellen Locher, Instructor of English at MCCC, Outstanding Nursing Wall Street Journal Award commented.

Award Kellie Fogh “Wanda is a wonderful Sarah (Little) Legeza person, very helpful,” Karen Chapman, an Michigan Scholars Spirit of Nursing Award MCCC student, said.

Jenna Koch for the US Army/NSNA “There is nothing she’s Janet Sheehy Laura Seifert afraid of. She always gives Samantha Longfield you more than you asked Outstanding Respiratory BJ Harmon Math Award for.” Bonnie Giles, Therapy Student Award Josh Nocella Assistant Professor of Renee Jajuga Electronic Office Systems, MASS Competition Award said.

Agora Photo By Terri McConnaughey Leslie Christnagel Industrial Tech. Awards Snavely is an active Wanda Snavely has done much to earn Robert Baldwin volunteer. She worked at the Student of the Year award for 2003.

Michael Williamson Undergrad Award for her church as a pianist and Patrick Gill Achievement in organist, and also served as family first. She has been Organic Chemistry director of their music programs. married for 33 years, has two Excellence in Journalism Brent Hyden Snavely taught sign language daughters and two Rachel Ziethlow classes, and works as an grandchildren. While her Crystal Pierce Freshman Chemistry interpreter for the deaf at daughters were in elementary Korinne Milks Steven Jones Monroe Missionary Baptist school she worked yearly as Jenna Koch Church. She is also the on-call C. Ernest Read Scholarship see Snavely, interpreter for Monroe County.

Jeff Guthrie Page 7 Snavely always puts her

Kerste Voted Faculty of Year

by Rachel Ziethlow Editor

The most famous aspect about Dean Kerste may be his desk drawer. According to campus legend, every pencil is sharpened and facing the same way. Some even think the pencils are organized according to length.

His pencils may bring him fame, but his personality and teaching style will keep students coming back.

“You get a lot of faculty that kind of leave kids hanging with what’s the assignment and maybe not really good instructions. I think he gives really good instructions.” Alex Babycz, Assistant Professor of Construction Management Technology said.

Kerste is intensely organized. Some may think it’s uncanny, but Kerste’s students think it one of his best qualities.

“He’s almost like a perfectionist and he pushes everyone else to do their best too,” Sheila Kaufman, a Monroe County Community College student said.

MCCC student Scott Wohlgamuth agrees. “He’s sharp. He knows what he’s doing.”

Unlike most full-time college professors, Kerste was not hired in with a degree in education, let alone any background in teaching or education, except attending and graduating MCCC, Bowling Green State University and Sienna Heights University. He was hired with experience in the industry from Detroit Stoker Company and Michigan Gas Utilities/Energy One. This has only benefited his students.

“When it comes to any type of drafting or anything like that,

its nice to have someone from industry just so you know what to expect and what you need to know from the field, not just what the book tells you,” Keith Albright, a MCCC student commented.

“He’s training you for a job and not just a piece of paper that says what you’re supposed to do on a job,” Jamie Vick, a MCCC student echoed.

Magnetic teaching styles.

Extremely organized. Industry background. These are the reasons why Kerste was nominated for Outstanding Faculty four times before winning it this year.

“The experience is priceless,” Amelia Church, MCCC student and former assistant to Kerste said of learning from Kerste.

Above: Dean Kerste is known for his helpful instruction in the classroom.

Left: Dean Kerste delivers a speech at the Honors Reception in acceptance of his just earned Faculty of the Year Award.

Agora photos by Rachel Zeithlow

page 6

The Agora

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

Monroe County Community College

Stowe’s presentation Fun for free concludes Civil War series

By Jenna Koch Page Editor

Potomac, at the celebrated battle of Gettysburg…but this battle Gettysburg seems more well known as Lee’s defeat “Gettysburg. The single rather than Meade’s victory,” most studied battle, probably, in Stowe said. the western hemisphere. Of His presentation looked at the estimated 60,000 plus Gettysburg from a different volumes on the American Civil viewpoint than most discussions War that have been published since the Civil War raged, I would say, a substantial percentage of the total is on these three days in Pennsylvania,” Christopher S. Stowe, adjunct professor at Monroe County Community College, explained to an eager audience during his presentation: Meade at Gettysburg: an operational overview.

Throughout this past year -Agora Photo By Jenna Koch the Monroe County Library Christopher S. Stowe, System hosted a series of a d j u n c t i n s t r uctor at presentations dealing with the MCCC Civil War. This “Civil War of the battle. Generally, the battle Series,” concluded with is studied from a confederate Stowe’s presentation. view, not a federal one. Stowe Stowe’s presentation explored the political hope of the focused on the Battle of battle, and the military Gettysburg from the viewpoint consequences of the Union’s of General George Gordon unrealistic expectations of Meade.

Meade.

Stowe understands the “Meade, of course is the modern importance and Federal Commander of the significance placed on the Union army, the army of the

-Photo courtesy of generalsandbrevets.com

General George Gordon Meade, Federal Commander of the Union Army of the Potomac

battle, and he is willing to agree and to sometimes dispute just how important the battle of Gettysburg was to the outcome of the civil war.

“Some scholars would argue that it is the most important battle of the civil war. I tend to agree with that.

I think it is a turning point in a way… but I avoid singling out a particular battle as a turning point because war is a process... We know how the

see Meade, page 7

By Phillip Koch Reporter The Detroit Electronic Music Festival drew a crowd of 1.5 million in the year 2000. Every spring thousands gather at Hart plaza to hear the world’s newest and possibly most popular music.

There has been concern if the festival would come to Detroit this year, but the event is scheduled for May 25-27 noon to midnight everyday. In the past the festival has brought names like DJ Krust, Waxmaster D. Smooth, and even George Clinton.

The music traditionally heard at raves and clubs is hitting the main stream. Having turn tables in your house is becoming as common as having a guitar or piano.

For some it’s the future of music, for others it’s just noise, but for Monroe County Community College student Jessica Seidl it’s all about having a good time. Jessica says “It’s a good thing to have…a little mini gathering of people who like the same music…it kind of puts you in a different state of mind…you see every different kind of person there.”

Popular names like “Fat boy Slim” and “Chemical Brothers” helped bring Electronic music to the ears of American youth. New York, Chicago, and Detroit have seen the impact this music has made, and at the same time

Luau to benefit local animals Sample of items up for auction

By Anna Hess Page Editor

Who says you can’t teach an old dog new tricks? Some real dogs hope its possible, because some of Monroe’s local celebrities will be the servers for the Humane Society’s upcoming fundraiser “Bow wow Luau.”

For the second consecutive * Gift certificate for office year, The Humane Society’s visits to Temperance annual “Bow Wow Luau” will Animal Hospital be held at Snyder’s Restaurant * Gift basket for in Lambertville. The “Luau” is Terrarium Beauty Shop * Margarita basket from Flicks * Dinner at Sidelines * Avon gift basket from Penny Bly * Gift certificate for Northern Tree Service * Ducks Unlimited artwork by Betty and David Shefferly * 10k gold necklace and earring set, from Bob and Pam Williams

taking place May 5, starting with drinks at 6 p.m. and dinner at 7 p.m. The “Luau” also includes a silent auction (bid written on available bid sheets).

“I went last year and it was really nice, it provides a nice atmosphere. We’re grateful to the restaurant for helping us out,” Lisa Mckenzie, manager of the Monroe Humane Society said.

Tickets are available through Snyder’s Restaurant, 8505 Secor Rd or (734) 8562 2 3 0 , o r t h r o u g h Ly n n e McNutt, Board President of the Humane Society of Monroe at (734) 856-7326.

Tickets are priced at $45 a piece, and there are 150 available.

“It’s a pretty good deal, especially for the animals,” McNutt said. According to her, the shelter is badly in need of the funds that the event will help provide. The money will go toward the general costs of running and maintenance, as well as supplies for the animals.

The dinner, provided by Snyder’s, will consist of draft beer and wince, hors d’oevres, choice of tropical salad, maji maji, chicken

Maui, a side dish, and dessert. The local celebrity servers, who will serve the entire meal, include Monroe County Sheriff Department’s Lieutenant Dan Motylinsky, Bedford Township Clerk Bob Schockman, Supervisor of Bedford Township Lamar F r e drick, Monroe County Chamber of Commerce Michelle Nisely, Super-intendent of Bedford Public Schools James Goebel, Michigan State Senator Bev Hammerstrom, and Miss Monroe County Tiffany Cupp.

-Photo courtesy of electronicmusicfest.com

The techno artists’ weapon, the turntable. making the music their own. From New York came “Garage”, from Chicago came “House” and from Detroit came “Techno”.

Electronic music is changing and reinventing itself similar to the way ice-cream is continually changing. Artist mix and match sounds to suit their own taste.

Aaron Watkins AKA “DJ ADubb” has had his hands on two turn tables since 1999.

Aaron has been a professional DJ for two years, spinning at popular night clubs in Toledo.

DJ A-Dubb had this to say about the music festival “It’s banging”. When asked if the festival lacked in any area he said “they need to let them interact with the DJ’s more.”

You can check out DJ A Dubb at his website www.MT75.com.

You can also see more of the DJ culture at websites like www.recordpool.com and www.musicfactory.com.

F : ast acts

* T h e M C C C St u d e n t Government is sponsoring a Battle of the Bands on May 10, it open to all and the proceeds from ticket sales will go to Monroe Outreach Assembly. * The hours for Spring/ Summer in the Regional C o m p u t e r Te c h n o l o g y Center starting May 12 through June 23 are as follows: Mon.-Thurs.8a.m.- 9p.m., Fri. 8a.m.4:30p.m., Sat. 8:30a.m.12:30p.m. *Then from June 24 t h ro u g h A u g u s t 4 t h e y will be: Mon., Tues., and Thurs.- Noon- 8p.m., Wed.- 8a.m.- 8p.m., Fri.8a.m.- 4:30p.m. *Mark B e r g m o o s e r, assistant professor of Speech and Journalism, will be teaching a Wo m e n ’s S e l f - D e f e n s e Class on May 21 as part of the Lifelong Learning program.

Monroe County Community College Muse, page 3 offering a safe andcomfortable place to share work for months to come.

“There are so many things we want to do with the club; web page, bulletin board, writer’s workshops. Currently, we are gathering the work of club members in hopes of producing our first publication,” Naber said.

To join the Writer ’s Muse, attend one of the regular

Graduation, page 1 expect,” Donna Bates, administrative assistant to the Registrar said.

There are 512 students scheduled to graduate with 185 of them who have chosen to participate in the ceremony. Of those 185 students, 44 will be graduating with honors and will wear honor chords to recognize them. This year’s guest speaker for the 2003 Graduation Ceremony will be our very own representative, Randy Richardville. community colleges in the area, like Owens Tech.

“We need a good people person, someone who commands respect, and can communicate with all parties involved,” Paul Knollman said.

“It is a great honor to be

IN THE MIX meetings. The club welcomes observers as well as avid writers. “[The Writer’s Muse is] a great group. Personally, I get ideas from listening to other people’s stories… I haven’t read anything yet, but when I do, I know I’ll be supported by them and get some very helpful critiques so that I know how to become a better writer. Anyone that has an inkling for writing should join this group,” Stevie Cooley, a member of the club said. chosen to speak at Monroe County Community College. I have great respect for the community leaders there, and I am looking forward to sharing a few words with the graduating class,” Representative Randy Richardville said.

Graduates will be presented with a diploma cover at the ceremony, and diplomas will be sent through the mail once grades have been turned in; this may take up to six weeks to arrive after the end of the semester.

“I recognize the hard work it took [for students] to get their degree and hope that this hard work will result in successful c h o i c e s i n t h e f u t u r e , ” D r.

M c C l o s k e y, Dean of Humanities/Social Sciences division said.

Search, page 1 community colleges in the area, like Owens Tech.

“We need a good people person, someone who commands respect, and can communicate with all parties involved,” Paul Knollman said.

Sykes pointed out to the committee his main point in reviewing the applications.

Asking what qualities the committee was looking for urged them to realize that there is more than one need or main point for the new MCCC President.

“The Presidential search brochure is the guide, which presents the challenges, opportunities, and the qualifications for the new

President,” Sykes said.

The applications process was constructed from profiles put together by the focus groups that were help previously. The application deadline was April 2, and the committee received 56 applicants. Their job is to review and rate the applications April 15 and in subsequent meetings, then decide on three to five applicants that fit the profile. These three to five applications are then turned over to the Board of Trustees who has the ultimate task of appointing a new President.

The committee will meet again on April 28, after they have independently reviewed and rated the applicants.

The Agora

Snavely, page 5

Warrick, page 1 plenty of daily challenges that have kept her busy here.

However, she still feels that it is a nice climate for a new president, as she expressed after announcing her decision to retire.

“There are some budget issues that will be looming; and they are not likely to get better next year.

We are dealing with a 6 ½ percent cut in state funding…while it will be challenge for probably the next couple of years, I don’t see it decimating the institution…This college is well-grounded with its community support,” Warrick said.

Despite financial concerns, the timing seems appropriate for a new president.

“Right now we have a wonderful faculty and staff in place, a lot of community support, and a lot of respect. Our student enrollment is up,” Warrick said.

She thinks that two or three years will pull MCCC out of its financial slump.

“There’s always something…and then there will be some other challenge.”

Warrick said the College is stable, but she accepted no credit for this. She stressed that that a lot of people work hard to

Relay, page 4 everyone will know someone who deals with cancer.

“Everyone is touched by cancer.

Through a friend, through a relative, personally; so, this is for everyone,” Germani, said.

Many of the proceeds go directly towards funding research. The University of Michigan received over $5 million a year in research grants from the ASC, according to Rebecca Hedge of the American Cancer Society.

Anyone who would like to participate with Relay is welcome on the college team. For those who don’t want to join a team, Relay still offers an event filled weekend for the entire family.

“There are a lot of fun activities for children. Lots of raffles, lots of good food to buy, cars to see,” Chris Sims, said.

Relay is a great way to support research, celebrate survivors, remember those who were lost to cancer, and to also have a good time.

In Loving Memory of

Bob Clement who passed away on April 8, 2003.

Services were held on April 12 at Timothy Lutheran Church. Instead of flowers, Bob willed that memorials be donated to The Foundation at Monroe County Community College for an Instructional Scholarship. Bob taught at MCCC part time from fall 1994 to summer 2000 and full time from fall 2000 to winter 2003.

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make MCCC what it is.

“It’s about a big family doing good things. I don’t have any fear that it [MCCC] isn’t going to do just wonderfully, and [it will] probably never miss a beat,” Warrick said.

M C C C ’s f i r s t f e m a l e president said she hopes people will remember that she was outspoken and “not afraid to take a stand.” Warrick said, “I’ve always tried to focus on people at all times and open doors so that others can do their jobs…I’ve also listened and tried to get as much input before making decisions as possible.”

As she prepares for her future, Warrick leaves MCCC with her legacy. Her parents taught her to be independent; she is not afraid to make decisions. She faces obstacles and trials with the attitude that they are challenges, meant to be conquered.

“Every job I’ve had has been a challenge. I’ve had people who had more faith in me than I had in myself…I feel very fortunate…if I’ve learned anything along the way, it was to take those risks…This has been the most wonderful place to work,” Warrick said.

Quit, page 4 Organization, each method is similarly effective.

Other methods have been created to help smokers kick the habit. Zyban, the Surgeon General explains, is an antismoking pill that is used to reduce the symptoms of withdrawal and contains no nicotine. Also used as an antidepressant, Zyban affects the chemicals in the brain associated with nicotine addiction. The drug, however, has many side effects, including dry-mouth, difficulty sleeping, shakiness, skin rashes, and the risk of seizures.

There are more conventional methods used to quit smoking.

The traditional cold turkey technique is when a smoker stops smoking at once, depending on his or her will to fight the addiction. Another technique, gradual reduction, reduces the number of cigarettes smoked each day until the smoker has been weaned from the addiction.

Monroe County Community College (MCCC) student Jennifer Floyd has been smoking for four years. About three weeks ago, she decided on the gradual reduction method to quit smoking, because her father may have emphysema and she hates to hear him cough.

“I still smoke around my friends, but I know I could not do it if I wanted to. I don’t want to smoke as much,” Floyd said.

Another MCCC student, Jennifer Arnold, has smoked for nearly five years. She began smoking at 15, with friends and it grew to an addiction.

“I’ve thought about quitting,” Arnold said, “but I enjoy doing it. If I had to quit, I’d probably use the pill [Zyban.]”

room mother and also served as treasurer for the Parent-TeacherAssociation. When they went to junior high, she was secretary of the P a r e n t - Te a c h e r - St u d e n t Organization.

Wanda is a soft-spoken quiet woman, who glances down when discussing her award. She prefers to shine the spotlight on others accomplishments, and not on her own. She relates to a quote from tennis great Arthur Ashe, “From what we get, we can make a living; what we give, however, makes a life.”

MCCC, page 2 flavor to my character, and without a doubt reaffirmed and helped me reform some of my beliefs and behaviors. It is impossible to have had anything taken away from me in my experience of attending MCCC since the summer semester of 2001.

When I first started here, I assumed this would be a stepping stone to another college and fortunately, but unexpectedly, it became a second home from which I am happy to be ready to move on, however I will miss MCCC. I began interests, opportunities, and relationships here, and though I’m leaving, I doubt any of these attributes will be lost or end.

Transfer, page 2 Another option is to check with EMU and Sienna Heights, two colleges who have offices on our campus.

They offer several courses on our campus and also accept MCCC credits easily. Contact EMU at 3846090 and ask for Valorie Juergens or call 384-4133 and ask for Margie Bacarella for information regarding Sienna Heights.

Michigan also offers many other great colleges and universities that are as close as 45 minutes to Monroe.

The University of Michigan and Toledo University are two that are near by.

If you do decide to go farther away, enjoy the experience. It will be a great time of personal growth, and may show you that you can do things by yourself, and make you a more confident self-reliant person.

You will without a doubt meet hundreds of new people and experience new cultures and traditions.

And if you go away and absolutely hate it, then come back.

It’s okay to not like something and try something else.

But it’s best to try it first and then decide. Don’t let your present feelings decide for you. Take a risk, and try something new. I think you’ll find that change is good, and every one could use something different once in a while.

Meade, page 6

war turned out, so we look backwards in time to assess, where did this all change?” Stowe said.

The Civil War series will continue next year. For more information visit the Monroe County Library System homepage at www.monroe.lib.mi.us or contact Charmaine Wawrzyniec, Reference Assistant at Ellis Reference and Information Center, at (734) 241-5277, to be notified of upcoming events through the mail.

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The Agora

Student Government Sponsored

Agora photos by Rachel Ziethlow

Monroe County Community College

Spring Picnic SPOTLIGHT

2003