5-4-2006

AGORA

VOLUME 48 ISSUE 9

MONROE COUNTY COMMUNITY COLLEGE

MAY 4, 2006

MCCC students: get the FACTS Kelyn Dillon Copy Editor A new tuition payment plan has been implemented for the Spring 2006 semester. FACTS, was developed by a large corporation that provides funds to colleges.

In one year, FACTS processed 1.8 billion dollars in tuition and fees and provided financial assistance to 700,000 students all around the nation.

This plan is being used at 14 other Michigan community colleges.

The loans are interest free.

According to the FACTS brochure, there are two options for students. First is a Automatic Bank Payment (ACH). ACH payments are in agreement with the student’s banking institution. Payments are automatically processed on the fifth of each month.

Another option is the credit card option. The credit card option allows students to take

advantage of any benefits offered by credit card companies.

Students will be able to enroll with no money down and

can use the MCCC website to access information about FACTS and to view account information at any time.

The total cost of the

program is $3,000 plus an annual fee of $500, which FACTS has covered. “[The] goal was to eliminate any barrier for

Agora photo by HEATHER WILSON

Andrew Jones shows third graders from Douglas Rd. Elementary School an electronics demonstration as part of their trip to the Whitman Center in Temperance.

students,” Tim Bennett, Vice president of business affairs, said.

Bennett’s office issued a survey in Fall 2005 that asked students why they did not pay tuition on time.

The survey included reasons for not completing registration such as, Inability to pay tuition, work issues, family or personal reasons, enrollment at another institution, or decided not to attend college at this time.

62 students responded and 58 percent of those who responded claimed there was a general inability to pay for tuition.

Also, 52 percent claimed they would pay tuition if a down payment was not required and monthly payments were available.

Michelle Kelch, an MCCC student, said she would be interested in the program because she would not have to worry about falling through the cracks in Financial Aid.

Third graders get taste of college Students from Douglas Road Elementary school visit the Whitman Center for the day Linda Whiteside Copy Editor On April 27, third graders from Douglas Rd. Elementary school in Bedford toured the Whitman campus.

The 70 students got a taste of college classes and some exposure to biological science. The tour was started by their teacher Fran Fisher as part of an effort to interact with the community.

“We [Whitman] will expose the children to college. Research has shown that if students have a positive first experience with an institution, they are more

Inside:

likely to choose that college when they are old enough to make the decision of where they will attend,” S a n d y Tracy Kling, Kosmyna, director of Whitman, said.

Part of the project’s goal is to expose kids to the Emerald Ash Borer, a beetle from Asia that kills ash trees within three years by laying their eggs in the tree. “[The Emerald Ash Boer] affects the ecosystems. It does billions of dollars in damage to ash trees…If we

Borer. Kling stressed an ash tree by removing 12 inches of bark in the hopes of attracting adult emerald ash borers. A type MCCC biology professor of sticky fly paper will be prevent the Ash Boer from used to capture the insects spreading,” Tracy Kling, when they attempt to lay Monroe County Community eggs.

The third graders will also College (MCCC) biology be exposed to pictures of land professor, said.

Jennie Stanger, MSU and water ecosystems and extension center consumer dissected stillborn or fetal horticulture educator and pigs.

“Plants and animals are master gardener coordinator, and Kling participated in a two things I want to expose demonstration on the Ash them to. I think personally, it raise awareness among kids, educate more, we may

It’s important to get younger kids excited; to see that [science] is cool and interesting.

Opinion 2

Summertime fashion Get an Agora staff member’s view on what might be hot this summer, along with the classics that always look good. (2)

European schooling Would you study abroad if you could?

MCCC now offers a program that lets you do just that. (3)

“”

Campus News 3

Feature 4-5

Relay for Life hits MCCC Now, students and staff members are invited to participate in the annual relay to help fund cancer research. (4)

MCCC students take on 4H Check out how these students balance school and an additional extracurricular activity. (5)

A&E 6

is important to share what we know with younger kids, so they know the world around them,” Kling said.

The third graders will also tour the Whitman computer lab and talk about business careers.

Andrew Johnson, a student in electronics at Whitman, demonstrated robots and talked about the technology programs offered.

“It’s important to get younger kids excited; to see that [science] is cool and interesting. For them to be able to see and touch it is an awesome opportunity,” said Kling.

Spotlight 8

Café Classics moves The coffee shop in downtown Monroe has moved to a new location. See what they have to offer! (6)

School year in conclusion Take a look at some of our favorite pictures from the 2005-2006 school year at Monroe County Community College. (8)

Opinion Editor-in-Chief bids farewell College 2 Agora

Jackie Pacheco Editor-in-Chief

I just realized I’ve done everything in my power to avoid writing this article. But this is it. After two years on staff, it’s my final goodbye.

The last story I will ever write for the Monroe County Community College (MoCoCoCo, as I’ve so fondly dubbed it) Agora.

As I pick at my fingernails and wonder what in the world I want to say to the entire student body, a million thoughts are running through my head.

And then it hits me. I don’t want to write this stinking article because this is my closure, and I don’t know if I’m ready to be done with journalism just yet.

Bye, bye, bye!

May 4, 2006

I can remember my first year as a wide-eyed assistant editor behind the influence of Taryn Kapp, my former editorin-chief. Eventually I caught on and fell into the swing of things.

When it was time for the national media conference trip our journalism class goes on every year, it was in Nashville, Tennessee, where I came out of my shell. Our loudmouthed gang could beat all when it came to knowing how to have a good time.

After my first year, I was still a little unsure of myself. All my buddies from the year before were gone and ready or not, I would be taking over the editor-in-chief position. It was my task to lead a whole new staff with only a few returning students. Luckily, the new assistant editor (Ashley Braden) was a former high school

myths Rebecca Kennedy Page Editor

Photos courtesy of JACKASH

Editor-in-Chief Jackie Pacheco and assistant editor Ashley Braden.

classmate of mine at Jefferson. When she joined the staff, we quickly formed a legacy that would come to be known simply as “JackAsh.” We were a force to be reckoned with.

Between the two of us, we’ve resurrected the Backstreet Boys, licked gigantic plastic ice cream cones, spent money

on flying pig hats, created an entire dance routine to Mr. Brightside and have come up with more inside jokes then I can even think of. Ash, imagine I’m singing this to you right now, “I don’t know what I would have done without youuuu.”

You made this year fly by, and

see “farewell,” page 7

Ashley Braden Assistant Editor In high school, she was loud, talkative, and had an opinion about everything. I thought she was crazy. Years later in college, nothing has changed. And she’s one of the few people who keep me sane.

Coming onto the Agora last fall, I was a little apprehensive about working side-by-side with Jackie Pacheco. I mean, we are two totally different people. I thought we had nothing in common and I was convinced that there was no way our friendship would become anything more than “newspaper pals.” I was wrong.

Over the past year, Jackie has become one of my best friends. Together, we’ve morphed into some unstoppable duo (JackAsh, if you will) and found that what one lacks, the other makes up.

We complement each other and it’s funny how well that has worked.

Whether we’ve been traipsing through Kansas City, ‘borrowing’ a golf cart up north, or spending way too many hours in the Agora room, Jackie has always enhanced the atmosphere. She’s been

see “bye,” page 7

Sizzling summer trends Inez Rutz Reporter Summertime is finally on its way. Everyone is looking forward to wearing fewer clothes, walking barefooted and eating meat cooked on the grill. To b e ready for the hottest season in the year there a r e some things y o u should know.

Agora photo by TONYA HUFFMAN Kim Harmsen models T h e summer’s latest fashions. first thing is being in good shape.

Jogging or riding a bicycle

makes you feel better about yourself and your body. The second one is having a healthy bronze tan. The third is knowing about the latest trends. I can not really help you with the first two points.

That’s something you have to do by yourself. But I might give you some advice.

White is definitely the color for the summer. It is a classic color which matches everything and if you have a nice tan it is a good contrast to your skin. White prevents you from overheating when

the sun is blazing hot.

The espadrilles shoes are still trendy. By wearing them your legs seem to be longer and for shorter women: they help you look taller. And the best thing about espadrilles is that they are very comfortable.

The last thing that is modern are skinny jeans. The boot cut jeans are out of style and the skinny jeans make others look at your legs.

Now you should be ready for the summer. Enjoy the weather and the fashion. Good luck!

There seems to be a myth going around regarding community colleges.

According to this myth, community colleges offer a lower quality education than universities do and the only reason a student would attend one is because they can’t go anywhere else.

It’s true that a community college cannot offer every resource that a larger university does, but there are several reasons why a student might choose a community college over a larger university.

There are, of course, the obvious reasons: lower costs, convenience, proximity to family and friends. In my time at Monroe County Community College, though, I’ve discovered several other, less-obvious benefits of a community college education.

One is the college’s small size. For some, that might seem like a disadvantage, but I appreciate the smaller size.

The smaller classes allow for more classroom interaction among students and faculty.

As a result, I know people in all my classes and my professors know me by name.

Think about it: people pay thousands of dollars for small classes at small, private colleges. Here we get the same benefits, but for much less.

I also appreciate the diversity of community college students. I am not talking cultural diversity here – you can usually find more cultural diversity at the larger universities than at a community college. What I mean is the diversity of ages and experience. Besides the traditional, high school graduates, many classes

see “college,” 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-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, Associated Collegiate Press, and the Student Press Law Center.

Mark Bergmooser, Adviser

May 4, 2006

Campus News

Agora

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MCCC launches study abroad program Rebecca Kennedy Page Editor Next May, students at Monroe County Community College (MCCC) will have the opportunity to travel to Europe as part of a new study abroad program. The program, led by Joanna Sabo, professor of political science, and Ann Orwin, professor of English, education, and journalism, will include visits to England, France, Switzerland, Italy, and Greece.

Students will earn nine credit hours through the program, including credit for Humanities 151, as well as a political science class and an English literature class, both of which are still under development. Students must take all three classes to participate.

The program will last six weeks in all, with two weeks of evening classes at the college before the trip, three weeks overseas, and another

week back on campus after the trip.

Ten students need to sign up for the trip for it to go ahead as planned, but as many as 25 can go. The first 25 students to put down the $450 deposit will be accepted. After that, students can go on a waiting list in case one of the other students cannot pay the rest of the cost on time. The trip will also be open to community members as well as students.

The trip will tenatively cost about $3,800 per student, including tuition, fees, meals, travel, and attraction admission. Books and spending money will be additional costs.

Three students need to put down a $245 deposit by the end of May to lock in prices.

Tracy Vogt, director of financial aid, reported that the college does not have a scholarship specifically for study abroad programs.

However, students may be able to apply financial aid to the program, depending on the

specific requirements of their scholarships.

“Most types of financial aid can be applied toward study abroad programs,” Vogt said.

Planning for the program began about a year ago and intensified this fall. The final approval came from the college about a month ago.

Part of the initiative for the program came from Sabo’s trip to Africa in 2003, as well as her experience last year with a study abroad program organized by Hocking Technical College in Ohio.

Sabo said the trip made her realize how much students and

professors grow and learn on a study trip.

Both Sabo and Orwin want their students to experience other cultures.

“Our world in Monroe is so small in relationship to our international community.

Students will gain so much learning in other cultures,” Sabo said.

“We’re kind of isolated from foreign culture,” Orwin agreed.

“We both just believe our students should have a European experience.”

Dr. Bruce Way, dean of humanities and social sciences,

Equipment theft triggers security Ceramics Linda Whiteside Page Editor

In spring 2005, three ceiling-mounted overhead projectors were stolen.

“One day somebody noticed the projectors were gone,” Gary Tomkinson, campus security, said.

Last month the department of Informational Systems installed alarms on campus overhead projectors in response. “[MCCC] is a very safe, secure environment. We are hoping [the projector thefts] are an isolated case. In the meantime we have security cameras installed in the parking lots to further our attempts at creating a safe environment,” David Nixon, president of Monroe County Community College (MCCC), said.

The new projector alarms are referred to as Sonic Shock devices and require a key to be deactivated. They work by sending out a high pitched sonic signal, similar to a car alarm, to alert campus security if anybody attempts to steal the projectors.

There are 72 projectors in all that have been fitted with alarms. The units cost $2,500 each.

“A lot of time and effort is taken by the maintenance staff in securing the projectors to the ceiling. They also help with faculty to deliver instruction,” Nixon said.

“In our day and age theft occurs frequently.”

“A Kensington device or clip, which is designed to support [the projector], has a cable run through it to the ceiling. If somebody tries to cut the cable to remove the projector, the system [detects] a breach and the alarm goes off,” Tom Scheer, MCCC microcomputer technician, said.

Thus far, nobody has set off the alarms. Crime on campus has been very low.

“It’s minimal. There were two purses stolen last year over two weeks than [the person] just stopped,” Tomkinson, said.

Computers on campus have also been secured. Computer labs in the East Technology building and the Life and Science building have been given more concern because they are largely unmonitored.

said the college hopes to continue the program, depending on the success of this trip.

“We are interested in increasing the opportunities our students have for overseas experiences, so if we can make this study abroad program work, expect to see it on a regular basis,” Way said.

There will be informational meetings on May 11 and 16 at 7:00 p.m. in the La-Z-Boy Center. Those who are interested need to e-mail Sabo (jsabo@monroeccc.edu) or O r w i n (aorwin@monroeccc.edu) as soon as possible.

A variety of c e r a m i c pieces, like these mixed media pots that combine beads and potter y, ar e displayed in the MCCC libar y.

T he pieces were made by students in Gary Wilson’s c e r a m i c s classes.

Agora photo by ANGEL ELLISON

students showcase their work Angel Ellison Photographer

Several Monroe County Community College (MCCC) ceramic students are getting a chance to show off their artwork in the Campbell Learning Resource Center from April 10 until May 5.

Many unique pieces will be on display, such as MCCC student Megan William’s gargoyle set. Incorporated into her pieces are deer bones that she found last fall in her parent’s yard.

“We’ve got very talented clay people and I’d like to showcase their work,” Gary Wilson, associate professor of art, said.

Several different types of pottery are on exhibit, including both functional and nonfunctional pieces. The pieces include wall plaques and large functional ware by Darlin Nothanagel, decorative porcelain ware with handbeaded jewelry additions by Stephanie L’amour, nature-

inspired pieces by Patti Kerr, and mug sets by Jeramy Adkins. Issac Gould, MCCC student and also a featured artist, has a large water fountain sculpture being shown.

“It was a very difficult and challenging task to make the fountain. It took me about ten weeks to complete. There were even a couple of people who told me to abandon the project because it was too complex.

But I kept at it anyways and it turned out awesome,” Gould said.

“We [the art department] are considering in the future to require art major students to participate in an annual April student art show to build their portfolios,” Wilson said.

Wilson said that a strong portfolio is necessary for students to be admitted to university art programs, art shows, or art-related jobs.

Many of the student pieces are for sale and profits will aid in furthering their education. Prices range from $30 to $200.

Agora photo by ANGEL ELLISON

A ceramic water fountain, made by MCCC student Isaac Gould, is one of the pieces featured in the student art show.

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May 4, 2006

Fight for cure finds way to campus Amanda Lundy Copy Editor In 1986, one man - Dr. Gordy Klatt - wanted to raise money to aid cancer research.

Now his dream is a nationwide event that Monroe County Community College (MCCC) students and faculty support with their hearts and their walking shoes.

This event, known as Relay for Life, is an overnight occasion which celebrates the lives of cancer survivors and strives to raise money for research and the American Cancer Society programs.

During the event, teams of people gather at schools, fairgrounds, or parks and take turns walking or running laps for 24 hours straight.

Co-chairs Cathy Spearing and Mythili Iyengar are in the process of constructing the Whitman Center’s first team, the Whitman Warriors.

Seasoned leader Chris Sims is

currently whipping main sales, garage sales, donation guiding light of encouragement campus’ team, the Bold, Brave, requests, and fun activities like to those who are fighting or and Determined (BBDs), back the “Rolling for Cure Bunco surviving cancer. into fundraising shape with the Party” are already off and “The lighting ceremony is aid of her co-chair such a moving Annie Germani for time during the their fifth year e v e n t , ” participating.

Germani said.

“I’ve seen “You can’t cancer at its worse help but be and I want to see it emotional when end. We need to find you see the a cure,” Sims said. hundreds of With this goal in bags lining the mind, students, path.” faculty, and To aid in community members the night’s are invited to join celebrations either or both relay and fundraising, Agora photo courtesy of CHRIS SIMS. teams. te n t s with “You don’t even (clockwise from left) Dawn Miazga, Dawn Brodie, refreshments, need to be a member Nancy Hooper, Denise Fox, Joan Weisbecker games and of our community to join a running. services, such as Germani’s team,” Iyengar said.

Decorated bags lit with psychic readings, will be on site To meet the Whitman candles, known as luminaria Warrior’s goal of contributing bags, are also a contributing $1,000 and the BBD’s goal of fund. raising $16,000, fundraising These symbolically honor strategies such as raffling off individuals who have lost the Michelle Scherlitz local business gift cards, bake battle to cancer and stand as a Copy Editor

Lend a hand

Ninjas unmasked Ashley Johnson Copy Editor Ninjas—the word evokes images of black masks, kidnappings, deadly secretive force, and four turtles eating pizza. They abound in the media, from the commonly known Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, to movies like Batman Begins, and are marketed as Halloween costumes and toys.

The facts on true ninjas, though, are sparse, due to a lack of records and cultural traditions of secrecy. These traditions of mystery continue today, enrapturing many.

Ninjitsu.org traces the art of ninjitsu, the martial art of ninjas, as a “way of life” that evolved for “the survival of a Japanese people opposed to the ruling Samurai class.” The site further adds that the martial art

to encourage the family friendly atmosphere and provide entertainment for participants and spectators.

Chelsea-Lynn Casey, a MCCC student and Whitman Warrior, feels that participating in this event is important for everyone.

“This is a really good cause,” Casey said. “And who knows…someday I may have cancer. If that happens, I would like to know that someone had helped fundraise for me, just like I am for someone else.”

The Bedford Relay will take place at the Bedford Community Stadium on May 20-21. Later, the Monroe Relay will be held June 3-4 at the Monroe Fairgrounds. To learn more visit www.acs.org

came to the western world in the 1970’s. Ninjitsu, along with the notion of ninjas, is slowly evolving and becoming adapted in American culture. This evolving mindset is present at Monroe County Community College (MCCC).

“Ninjas are tight. My kids love ninjas. They’re always kicking. Their favorite is Power Ranger Ninja Force,” Kai Hudson, MCCC student, said.

Dr. Masaaki Hatsumi, former grandmaster of Tuogukure ninjitsu, reveals some information about the ninja history in his book Ninja Secrets from the Grandmaster. A ninja himself, Hatsumi is even unsure of when the ninja legacy began.

“There is a theory that ninja were farmers, but it would not be correct to mistakenly imagine them as peasants. Also there is the theory that ninja

were merchants. So there is no one single established theory as to just exactly where the ninja phenomena came f r o m , ” Hatsumi said.

Hatsumi dispels t h e common belief that the goal of most ninjas is to always fight. This is a stereotype in America and is a common belief among many ninja enthusiasts.

“The truly accomplished ninja always works to avoid fighting. We do not dwell on the thought of defeating others or sneaking up on victims at night,” Hatsumi said.

Even though the secrets of ninjas may never be fully revealed, for the fans of ninjas and their history, this mystery only adds more to the ninja enrapturing.

Make a difference in your community, and the lives of others by becoming a volunteer. You can find many opportunities to get involved as a volunteer at numerous local non-profit agencies.

In Monroe County alone there are volunteer opportunities like Habitat for Humanity, Monroe County Opportunity Program, Family Counseling and Shelter Services, Paula’s House, The Humane Society, and numerous other organizations.

Volunteers vary in skills, backgrounds, and age. Most agencies simply appreciate the help.

There are several reasons to become a volunteer. Here are just a few to consider: • Develop new skills.

• Expand your horizons.

• Get involved in your community.

• Try something you would not do on your own.

• Make a difference in the

lives of others.

• Looks great on a resume.

“Habitat for Humanity builds homes in partnership with homeowner families and volunteers of all backgrounds,” Dana Brown, director of volunteer relations of Habitat for Humanity of Monroe County, said.

Other organizations like Paula’s House need for volunteers willing to donate increments of time to sit with and support women that are recovering from drug/alcohol abuse.

“When I witnessed the miracles of the spark returning to previously drug/alcohol addicted women, it was then that I realized the importance of staying involved in this type of community, mostly because its rewards are invaluable,” Stella Brancheau, volunteer house manager at Paula’s House, said.

“It makes me feel good to help other people,” Tyra Rosinski, educational media technician at MCCC, said.

see “lend,” page 7

Immigration laws create nationwide controversy Michelle Scherlitz Copy Editor The controversy on the latest immigration laws sparks heated debates, even at Monroe County Community College (MCCC). The news headlines are filled with the pros, the cons, and everything in between, as the United States publicly debates all sides

of this controversial issue.

Illegal immigrants have been in violation of law, but the majority of them have been able to get away with staying in the United States, at least prior to 9/11.

“My husband is a Canadian and has a permanent green card, which took about 2 ½ years and $1500 to obtain, but he is not a U.S. citizen,” Mariah Fryer, Monroe County

Community College (MCCC) student, said.

Fryer is extremely outspoken on this subject, and she believes that if illegal immigrants are in the United States, then they should be sent back to their own country, regardless of the length of time that they have been here in the U.S. “I feel that [if] any

immigrant does not know how to speak or comprehend the English language, they should not be allowed citizenship or residency in the United States period,” Fryer said.

On the other hand, what about those who are firstgeneration immigrants with direct ties to U.S. technology?

The founders of Microsystems, Google, and Yahoo are all

examples of this. Denying these immigrants access to work in the United States could possibly cripple the U.S. economy since these companies bring millions of dollars in revenue to the U.S. Foreign professionals have a much harder time getting into

see “laws,” page 7

May 4, 2006

No

Feature

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5

arking anytime Titanic tragedy:

Tonya Huffman Page Editor Parking is an issue at Monroe County Community College (MCCC), whether it is lack of spaces, students taking staff parking spots, and currently staff parking in “student” parking spaces.

In the summer of 2005, a new parking lot was created

Resources Center. The problem is students are facing now is finding a place to park in the new lot.

Many students are upset because staff members are often parking in spots that could accommodate them. On the flip side, staff members are upset because students are taking their spots as well.

“Staff shouldn’t park in student lots. They have their own designated lots and it’s hard enough for us (students) to find a space,” Kelly said.

Students in general argue that staff have designated areas to park leaving other unmarked parking as student only spaces. Through this designation may not have been

Agora photo by TONYA HUFFMAN

For much of the day the new parking lot built this past fall proves full with both student and faculty vehiles.

behind the Campbell Learning Resources Center – totaling seven lots on main campus due to the overcrowding of other parking lots. This parking lot is serving many students and some staff as closer access to the Campbell Learning

“If staff can park in student lots, students should be able to park in staff lots,” Alex Hornstein, MCCC student, said.

This opinion is shared by MCCC student Samantha Kelly.

made clear before, Dr. David Nixon, president of MCCC, has confirmed the rule.

“Faculty/Staff have a lot that is reserved for their private vehicles. All others are

see “parking” page 7

ship sinks to the past Ashley Johnson Copy Editor The “world’s greatest maritime disaster”, the sinking of the British liner Titanic, left a scar on the belief of infallible technology. It was a time in American history that nature and human invention collided, similar to Hurricane Katrina breaking through New Orleans’s inadequate water dams. On April 15, 1912, the Titanic sunk. Now, 94 years later, the tragedy continues serving as a reminder to the dangerous perception of over trusting manmade creations. It also has helped to improve safety in future human inventions.

The sinking of the liner ignited a ripple effect of safety procedures. These are readily apparent in today’s airline and cruise safety procedures and drills, which passengers are involved in. Some of these changes are reflected in a report included in The Mammoth Book of the Titanic that was read to a crowd of 200 people in July of 1912, three months after the sinking.

“Life saving accommodations should be based on persons carried, not tonnage…more frequent boat, fire, and watertight door drill, [and] a police system to secure proper control, obedience, and guidance” were some principal ideas to help avoid future

tragedy announced by Lord Mersey, the then head of the British Court Inquiry into the Titanic sinking.

A Monroe County Community College student shared her opinions on the effects the Titanic brought to safety standards.

“It proved that no matter how safe something is purported to be, precautionary measures must be taken,” Tennery Hicks, MCCC student, said.

The Titanic additionally shed light on complex ethical choices humans are faced with during tragedies. These rapid life changing decisions occurred during the chaos of the sinking ship when it was decided who would stay onboard and who would be allowed onto the limited lifeboats. John Piippo, minister and MCCC philosophy professor, believes that these choices revealed the true selfmorals that the victims held.

“There were probably some phenomenal wondrous ethic choices to allow others to go ahead on the boat. There were probably some selfish ones, too. We all want to live.

There [were] ethical dilemmas happening, because not everyone [could] get on the lifeboats,” Piippo said.

The Titanic continues to rest on the Atlantic Ocean floor, a submerged monument to both the falls and triumphs of a time in human existence.

4-H program: lessons learned for life Kristin Booth Freelance Writer ‘I pledge my head to clearer thinking, my heart to greater loyalty, my hands to larger service and my health for better living, for my club, my community, my country and my world.’

For any child or young adult who has ever participated in the 4-H program, these words have been forever engraved into their very being.

When most people hear about 4-H, they consider this activity to be for younger children, but according to Pattie Wartinger from the 4-H Extension Office, out of the1358 members, 1016 are in the older age category.

Kendra Hatcher, Monroe

County Community College (MCCC) student, has been participating in the program for over ten years and loves it.

“I love 4-H because I like making the crafts and entering them in the fair,” Hatcher said.

Most 4-H’ers have been involved in the program from the time they were eight years old. Now that age rule has changed, allowing 4-H’ers to continue participating in the program well into young adulthood.

Dual-enrolled student Elizabeth Wielfaert, who has entered hogs for two years, feels that 4-H is an amazing experience to be involved in.

“4-H has been an awesome experience that has taught me many lessons like responsibility and leadership that will help me through college and the rest of

my life. Plus, 4-H is tons of fun,” Weilfaert said.

There are many categories that a person may enter a project in. The participators can bake, sew, give demonstrations and more.

MCCC student Becky Bowman, now one year graduated from the fair, remembers the eleven years she participated in the program.

She loved the 4-H activity and knows that this year she will feel a sense of loss.

“When you complete a project, you have a feeling of satisfaction. The project shows you the accomplishment of your hard work. 4-H has also helped me prepare for college by teaching me to do projects in a timely manner,” said Bowman.

Agora photo courtesy of KRISTIN BOOTH

4-H participant, Elizabeth Wielfaert, is a dual-enrolled student at MCCC, and works hard to show off her pig.

If you are at interested in participating or you have any questions, call Judy See at (734) 240-3170.

A&E Café pours a good time Gary’s guide 6

Agora

Heather Wilson Photo Editor

May 4, 2006

There is also a lot more floor space for more people to enjoy themselves.

According to Widner, one thing that people were worried about leaving behind were the murals on the wall of the old

Columbia.

Since music is such an influence on the atmosphere of Café Classics, the new symbol for the café is a coffee cup with steam coming out of it in the shape of music notes.

Café Classics, a coffee shop established in Monroe in 2001, has moved to a new location. Besides the new location, it is recieving a big face lift.

The café was first owned by Tim Anteau, but is now owned by Elaine Widner.

“The coffee shop was Tim’s vision, so when I bought the shop, I wanted to change it into my vision,” Widner said.

When the store on the southwest corner of Monroe Street and Front Street was going out of business, Widner took the opportunity to move her coffee shop.

Café Agora photo by HEATHER WILSON Classics was originally Bruce Freimark, Steve Pipis, and Joel Freimark (left to right) located next to Jones for perform on stage at the new Café Classics.

Men on Front Street.

“I really like the new “Now that we have shop.

To remedy this worry, location; it is more comfy and moved, our business has Widner decided to bring in artist cozy. I feel like I just should doubled, Widner said.

“We see a lot of new faces Lee Ann Harburn from Artistic bring a book and buy a great Edge Design to paint four cup of coffee and enjoy,” Katie in the shop.”

The interior of the café has murals on the columns inside. Hammond, Monroe County a taste of the old location along Each column now represents Community College(MCCC) with a few new accents. For the four major coffee suppliers student, said. example, there is now a stage of the word, namely Hawaii, see “cafe,” page 7 built for the live performances. Ethiopia, Jamaica, and

Ashley

Gary Knox Reporter Watching sports is a therapeutic experience. An otherwise terrible day can improve drastically if your favorite team nails the winning basket or scores the winning touchdown. With all this in mind, I have compiled the five most important rules to remember when watching sports.

1. Know the crowd: Sports must be watched in a way that fits a person’s personality. For the sports fan who tends to cheer until he/she turns blue in the face, getting together with other excited yet knowledgeable, sports fans is a good idea. For the fan who takes the game very seriously but is more mild mannered, watching sports alone or with one or two other people is best.

Avoiding large,

unknowledgeable, crowds who tend to ask uninformed questions is strongly recommended.

2.

Control personal temperament: This rule applied when a favorite team looses a big game. To avoiding unleashing anger on people who don’t deserve it, a safe distance from human contact is crucial. This alone time will allow for the appropriate amount of mourning to take place. Throwing things around angrily is acceptable provided minimal damage is caused.

Also make sure the object of your wrath is inexpensive.

3. Correct food preparation: Good food enhances the sports watching experience. It is important to remember that food must be made before the game starts. Watching sports alone or with a small group calls for snacks that are fast and easy. Pizza rolls, chips, pretzels and other finger food are all acceptable culinary items.

4. Rivalries can’t become personal: It is likely that a good friend will decide to cheer for the wrong team. A certain amount of “smack,” can be

see “guide,” page 7

amusement

hot entertainment heals hot weather blues Ashley Braden Assistant Editor Entertainment is easy to come by in the summer, but bad entertainment is even simpler to find. Don’t take a chance with hard-earned lawn-mowing money. The following are guaranteed crowd-pleasers, stamped with my seal of approval.

Album: Powder Burns (One Little Indian US) by The Twilight Singers.

Okay, so technically this album will be released before summer. However, after two months of falling in love with this CD, it would be a crime for me to leave it unmentioned.

Hitting stores on May 16 (and iTunes April 25), Powder Burns is a powerpacked, emotion oozing, and... just flat out amazing album. Frontman Greg Dulli delivers…and

promises to impress. (www.thetwilightsingers.com) Movie: Little Miss Sunshine (Fox Searchlight) The story follows a little girl, Olive (Abigail Breslin), trying to fulfill her dreams of becoming a pageant queen. I have only seen a twominute trailer for this movie a n d I ’ m sold. It wasn’t the plot, however, that convinced me this movie is going to be fantastic. Just the simple fact that Steve Carell is starring in it is enough to make me be at the theater on July 28.

“He [Carell] has a lot of really funny jokes. He’s hilarious so I’ll probably go see it,” Eric Havekost, Monroe County Community College (MCCC) student, said.

Book: Eleanor Rigby written by Douglas Coupland.

I’ve always b e e n impacted b y literature and I have always believed that books can make a difference in one’s life.

I didn’t, however, trust that a book could actually change a life until I read this one.

Eleanor Rigby is an extremely easy read, but the mental impact it leaves is incredible. This book made me question everything about my life… and that is pretty p h e n o m e n a l . (www.coupland.com) Concert: Rascal Flatts’ Me And My Gang Tour So perhaps I’m a little biased—these guys have been one of my favorite acts since they hit CMT years ago. But after seeing them live four times already and planning to

catch them twice this June, I think it’s safe to say their shows are nothing short of mind-blowing.

“I was so excited when I got tickets to go to Rascal Flatts for my birthday. I hear that they put on a great live show and I love their music.

I f this is t h e only concert I get to go t o this summer, I’ll be more than h a p p y, ” A n n e D e w e y, MCCC student, said.

Between their fan interaction, better-than-therecord vocal abilities, and insane amounts of energy, Rascal Flatts gives you your money’s worth… and then some. For tour information, visit their website at www.rascalflatts.com.

Pig-out Paradise: Joe’s Crab Shack

Seafood fan or not, you have to visit the Shack at least once over the summer.

Not only does the menu offer something that will please the taste buds of even the pickiest of eaters, but the environment is fun and inviting. The restaurant décor is that of a beachy theme and the waiters even dance as entertainment for their customers.

“I’ve never been there, but I’d like to go. I really like seafood and I heard it’s got a pretty cool atmosphere,” Brian Hall, MCCC student, said.

If nothing else, just check out the gift shop. The t-shirts are enough to make anyone double over in a fit of laughter. (www.joescrabshack.com)

May 4, 2006

In the Mix

from “farewell,” page 2

from “college,” page 2 from “laws,” page 4

I have full confidence in what you can accomplish with the newspaper next year. You never cease to impress me and working with you has been a hoot. Not only did I gain an Agora partner in crime, I gained a best friend.

And Mark. Mark, Mark, Mark. These two years have been a wild ride, that’s for sure!

Thank you for never giving up on me when I’m sure there were days when you could have strangled me. Nobody could have managed a group of animated, lively college kids as well as you did. Without your guidance and more importantly, your friendship, the Agora would never be where it is today. Thank you.

In May of last year, I joined the Army and in June of this year, I will be sent to Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri for 9 weeks to finish my training.

After that, my future is unknown. However, I know I will never forget all the friends I’ve made and the memories that were created with the MoCoCoCo Agora.

contain mothers with kids, grandfathers returning to school, or students who work full time. These students bring a different perspective to classrooms and more “traditional” students like me can learn a lot from their work ethic and determination to learn.

Most importantly, I have learned that how much you learn is not determined by where you go to college. It has to do with how much you want to learn and how much you are willing to do to reach your goals. If you truly want to learn, you can succeed anywhere.

I admit: I am looking forward to moving on to the new experiences of university life this fall. But when I go, I will be carrying with me an appreciation for the community college and the education it has given me.

the U.S. than foreign products do.

“I think that those immigrants that have already been here in the U.S. for a year or more and who have established a job, should be able to pursue citizenship, and for those who have not, they need to go through the proper legal channels to do so,” Brenda Kraus, French instructor/ Oasis advisor at MCCC, said.

America is the land of opportunity. People from other countries will most likely try to come here for the freedoms that we possess. This country was founded by people from many different countries, and has prospered from this diversity; surely we can find a way to compromise.

from “lend,” page 4 “I get an adrenaline rush for the opportunity to give back to my community, as it has given so much to me,” Robert Grabowski, Lambertville volunteer firefighter and MCCC student, said.

Brown encourages people to get active and do something that you are passionate about, no matter what your interests; this might just help you find a new purpose in life.

7

Concert Reader’s Corner Voice Spitalfield Sun, 05/07/06 Headliners 6:00 PM Toledo, OH

Tool Mon, 05/15/06 Fox Theatre 8:00 PM Detroit, MI

What are your summer plans?

Twilight Singers

○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○

Thu, 05/25/06 St. Andrew’s 7:00 PM Detroit, MI

Adam Norman

Snow Patrol Fri, 06/09/06 Clutch Cargo’s 6:30 PM Pontiac, MI

Rascal Flatts Fri, 06/09/06 The Palace 8:00 PM Auburn Hills, MI

The Fray Wed, 06/14/06 Clutch Cargo’s 6:30 PM Pontiac, MI

from “guide,” page 6

from “bye,” page 2 the one I’d laugh, sing and dance, and even throw fits with throughout my first year of college. I would have never guessed that we’d be as close as we are now, but I wouldn’t trade this girl for all the pla(aaaaa)stic pearls in the world.

Now that the Agora year is coming to a close, I’m sad to see it all end. I’ll miss the fun, I’ll miss the stories, but most of all, I’ll miss the Editor-in-Chief.

Jackie – it’s been a wild ride. I’m so glad I got the chance to work with you. I now know you’re one of the few that I’ll be friends with even when pigs fly, and you’ve convinced me that friendship can be found in the oddest of places. This year has been a good hug… ‘cause we’re Mr. Brightsides.

Agora

OOPS! Corrections from the last issue of the Agora can be seen at our website: http:// www.monroe ccc.edu/ agora/ index.html

Zobmondo Would you rather...? have a plugged nose -ORperpetually plugged ears? cut your fingernails and toenails from now on only with your teeth -ORhave your hair cut from now only with a knife? have a scandal named after you (like Monica-gate) -ORa disease named after you (like Lou Gehrig’s disease)?

hurled back and forth for the purpose of building a friendly r i v a l r y. N o a m o u n t o f t r a s h t a l k i n g h o w e v e r, should become personal. Friendships shouldn’t be compromised because of sports. The only exception to this rule applies to Michigan and Ohio State fans. It is common knowledge that these people can’t coexist with each o t h e r.

5. Have fun: This final rule is the most important. Don’t take s p o r t s t o o s e r i o u s l y.

Real life is serious enough as it is.

Sports are a great way to escape from daily trials and tribulations.

Smile and enjoy the two to three hours of relaxation.

“To work.”

Michelle Baumann

“School and spending time at the race track.”

Jamie Wilson from “cafe,” page 6 The coffee shop has live music ever Wednesday night through Saturday night. The music can range from Folk to Christian to Alternative, often styled by the acoustic guitar.

“I like the live music.

The performers that I watched played the type o f m u s i c t h a t I e n j o y.

Everyone else there seemed to enjoy themselves,” Mary Bellino, MCCC student, said.

“I’ll be in Florida for three months.”

8

Agora

Spotlight

May 4, 2006

wrapping up another good Year...

Chef Tad Cousino prepares hors’ doeuvres for the Toledo Symphony Orchestra’s peformance on November 4, 2005.

The Student Government hosted an ice cream social on April 25th.

The social was open to all faculty and staff.

Chief Master Sargeant John (Skip) Boshart, Air Force Retired, reads a message at Pfc. Dennis Miller’s Memorial Service that happened on November 10th 2005.

Ceramics student Issac Gould works on one of his pieces at the begining of the winter semester in hopes of submitting it in the student art show that took place this past month.

Agora photos by HEATHER WILSON and REBECCA KENNEDY

Agora and broadcasting students were invited to a media Luncheon with the Detroit Tigers baseball team this past January. Pictured here (l to r) is Tonya Huffman, Brian Kloster, Todd Jones, and Heather Wilson.