MC3

GORA A

Outstanding student of the year

THE

Monroe County Community College

May 5, 2009

Vol. 52, Issue 6

pg. 6

Goodbye Tyner pg. 3

Sports clubs at MCCC get support

Congratulations Graduates!

Board of Trustees donate from their own pockets

Asia Rapai Copy Editor

MCCC’s sports clubs could become stronger thanks to some concerned students and the Board of Trustees. At the board meeting on April 27, MCCC students Elizabeth Terrasi, Amy Terrasi, Brett Newcomer, MacJohn Thom, and Fitness Activities Director Vladimir Vjatschslav brought up the issue of college sports clubs. Just by speaking up, the students earned $4,000 for sports clubs from the pockets of the MCCC board members and the Alumnus of the Year William Terrasi. “I don’t like sports, I don’t play sports, I don’t watch sports, but I will pledge $500 to The Foundation for whatever they can come up with,” Board Chair William Bacarella said. So what’s the catch? Bacarella asked the students to take a legitimate survey of all the

students at MCCC. This survey would determine whether or not the student population has an interest in sports clubs. The four students proposed that all MCCC students could be charged a student activity fee along with the tuition and other normal fees. Their survey would determine whether or not the student population would approve of this extra fee. “Nobody wants us to raise tuition.” Bacarella said. With the poor economy and the uncertainties surrounding tuition, the Board of Trustees wants to be sure that the students decide whether or not this is a good idea. They do not want students to be concerned about paying more to attend MCCC. “If I can deflect that and say the students agreed to it, I’m on board,” Bacarella said. “I want the ammunition to say ‘you asked for this.’”

Sports Continued on page 9

MCCC tuition: Officials get personal with the college’s finances Asia Rapai Copy Editor

Agora photo by Michael Crossman

MCCC graduate Ben Schreiber celebrates by holding his degree high. Story and photos continued on page 4-5.

Monroe gets National Battlefield Casey Cheap

Copy Editor-in-Chief

The shuttered old paper mill on Monroe’s east side, near the River Raisin, has been long gone. In its place is the historic battlefield site from the War of 1812. Members of the Monroe community have worked for years for a National Historic Park in Monroe. Their wishes have been granted. On March 30, 2009, Congress approved a bill that elevates the battlefield—site of the “River Raisin Massacre”—to a National Park status. The site will now be named the River Raisin National Battlefield Park. But before the National Park Service (NPS) can take control of the land, the old Battlefield’s boundaries must first be established. The land is owned partly by Monroe County, the city of Monroe, The Monroe Historical Society and The Port of Monroe. The current visitor’s center on East Elm Street was established in July 1990. It is a cooperative effort between

the Monroe County Historical Commission and Monroe County Historical Society. The center includes dioramas and life-size British and American Soldiers. There also is a fiber-optic wall-size map presentation. Every January, there are re-enactments of the battle that took place on January 22, 1813. The River Raisin Massacre, or “Battle of Frenchtown,” was an embarrassing defeat for the Americans at the hands of the British in the War of 1812. General William Henry Harrison had tried to recapture Fort Detroit after the British had taken it. U.S. Regulars, as well as militia were camped out in Frenchtown (now know as Monroe) waiting to seize Fort Detroit. They were taken by surprise when the British arrived behind the American lines with over 500 Shawnee and Tecumseh Indians. As soon as battle positions had been taken up, the right flank gave way, although several troops still held strong a fortified left. The end result was an American retreat and only 33 survivors of the 400 who went into battle. Since

INSIDE: Editorial...................2 CampusNews.........3 Graduation..........4-5

British General Henry Proctor did not have enough sleighs to carry wounded U.S. soldiers, they were left along the banks of the River Raisin. Once the British guards withdrew, the Indians slaughtered 68 wounded soldiers, most of whom were Kentucky militia. The inci-

dent became known as the River Raisin Massacre. “Remember the Raisin” became a popular battle cry later in the war. U.S. Senator Carl Levin, D-Michigan and U.S. Rep. John D. Dingell, D-Dearborn are to thank for ushering the bills through Congress to get Monroe a national park.

The River Raisin Battlefield Visitor Center was established in July 1990.

Campus News.........6 Feature....................7 A&E..........................8 Sports......................9 Spotlight...............10

Enriching the students across Southeast Michigan

Officials at MCCC are compromising with their finances so you don’t have to. There has not been much information to help with the decision on next year’s tuition. According to Vice President of Business Affairs and Treasurer, Timothy Bennett, there is still no word on what the state funding will provide for the college. Because the factors that contribute to tuition and next year’s budget are so unclear, college officials are trying to find ways to save money within MCCC. “Tim has been collecting a number of suggestions,” MCCC President Dr. David Nixon said. One of these suggestions involves freezing the salaries of Nixon and the college administrators for next year. Nixon volunteered to forgo his normal pay increase of $2,848.52, which would start on August 1, 2009, according to the Board of Trustees. Board Chair William Bacarella spoke for the board members on Nixon’s decision. “We appreciate your leadership,” he said. Nixon’s leadership inspired other administrators to accept a pay cut to their salaries next year as well. “Without the 3 percent pay increase for the administrators, the college will save $169,000,” Bennett said. The specifics about other factors that affect budget and tuition are still uncertain. According to Bennett, property taxes are still estimated at a 2 per-

cent decrease for next year. Bennett is also expecting a 3 percent increase in the number of enrolled students, based on the trend that has developed over past years. However more students does not automatically mean more money. “Record enrollment doesn’t translate into record funding,” Vice Chair William Braunlich said. The board members pointed out that the State of Michigan’s system of college funding is different from most states. Tuition in other states is directly related to the number of students enrolled in the college. However, MCCC’s tuition is based on several different factors. “It is a mystery, but it certainly is not compatible with other states,” Nixon said. According to Nixon, funding for community colleges is based on completion rates, not the number of students who are just enrolled. This contributes to the difference in the amount of funding compared to the amount of enrolled students. MCCC employees continue to look for ways to save money for next year. Bennett is looking for suggestions from MCCC staff. Nixon pointed out that some of the decisions that will help the college financially might create some inconveniences. “There are things we’re going to have to do that will make people unhappy,” he said. A Special Study Meeting will be held with MCCC’s Board of Trustees, on May 13 at 6 p.m., to discuss next year’s budget and tuition. There is no guarantee that a decision will be made on the cost of tuition at this meeting,however.

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Visit our website at: www.monroeccc.edu

2 THE AGORA

Editorial

Pack your planner

Agora Editor in Chief Emily Chandonnet was the student speaker at MCCC’s graduation ceremony May 1. Photo by Michael Crossman

new friends, thick skin, further education, a mentor, and the solid confirmation that I am headed down the perfect career path for me. MC3 was merely God’s bus stop along my way toward teaching. I hope to be like the teachers in my life. Not just my classroom teachers from grade school to MC3, but my parents and three siblings, family, friends, and 4H leaders. They have each taught me lessons and collectively shown me my strengths and weaknesses, and encouraged me to no end. Through them I found opportunity and they challenged me to try new experiences every day. Which led me to make my schedule a little more chaotic, ­ outside the newspaper and full credit load, when I joined student government this past fall. It’s been a rebuilding year and I felt it was proper to use the skills I had learned in 4-H to do what I could to get student government back on its feet. Others of you have used your previous knowledge and skills to help lead in MC3 clubs and organizations. Beth Terrasi started the volleyball club, leading MC3 hopefully into an athletic program. The graduating writing fellows, Resa Waldecker and Holly Revel-Huff, along with the other writing fellows, have helped each one of us pass our English courses and make us sound smarter. And, of course I can’t forget my fellow Agora graduates, Casey Cheap, Resa Walderdecker, Josh Kraus, RoseMarie Mikreses and Kristin Stepinski, you helped me spread news across the campus. Many of you contribute, and are experiencing life by grabbing on to opportunity. I’ve always believed you have to give to receive. This is why community service has always been on the top of my list and of course my sole part in Student Government and the 4-H program. Many of you have helped out or given back by donating time, money and effort into community services on campus. Whether it was buying a breast cancer pin, giving school supplies to Support the Drive, or helping MASS recycle by collecting cans. Some of you even joined the Newman Club and its hunger banquet, where you took a good hard look into the world of poverty. For me, being involved on a daily basis is natural. I’m not crazy or over worked, I don’t do it to get recognition

or praise; volunteering and being a part of the world around me is my reward. I’ve contributed a lot of my time and energy into various aspects of my life, but what I get back is always ten times better than what I put forth. It’s about seeing a member of my fifth grade girls basketball team score her first basket, or an Agora staff member win first place for an article. MC3 has brought me a world of opportunities – ones I could never have seen coming. God wanted me here. He knew MC3 needed to come first. Because of these two years I was able to reconnect with old friends and make new lifelong friends. I got to coach basketball for two more years. I got to help my sister plan her wedding. And I was able to be surrounded by family after my grandmother passed away at the beginning of fall semester. We are graduating today and are headed into our next set of opportunities. Kari Fuerstenberg is going to join me as we move to New Ulm, Minnesota. The two of us will have the opportunity to have a chapter in each of our students’ lives and help them grab at their own success. Caitlyn DeHoust is moving to England for the next step in her life, where she will study and learn firsthand about music management. And Kristin Stepinski told me out in the hall that as she was leaving for the gradation ceremony she received a call that accepted her as an intern in North Carolina. I’m not up here today because I am the best student or most popular. I’m not up here because I have overcome great difficulties or am continuing on to an impressive college. I am up here today because I am just the average girl who is doing her part to be a part of the world. I plan to continue on exploring opportunities in my life. I’ve lived by the Bible verse Luke 1:37 “For nothing is impossible with God.” With this passage I keep in mind that I don’t know what God has planned for me, but I know whatever I try he will be right there with me. The world has every opportunity imaginable and I believe you don’t know if you’re on the right track until you try something new. So I suggest to each and every one of you, go buy yourself a planner and jam pack it full of opportunities.

The Agora moving online When students return to MCCC next fall, they’ll be greeted by a new version of The Agora. In addition to the print edition, there will be a Web site giving students 24/7 access to news, information, entertainment and discussion. One of the frustrations for student journalists at MCCC has been that The Agora is published only five or six times a semester. News is old before it hits the paper. During the last year, the staff has made an effort to include more timely news as often as possible. For example, a story and photos from last Friday’s graduation is included in today’s paper, which was printed Monday. But with the new Web site, news can be published as soon as it happens. The college’s Board of Trustees can make a decision that affects students at 8 p.m. on a Monday

Dan Shaw Adviser

night and it can be on the Web site by 8:30. Movies can be reviewed the day they come out – not two weeks later. Graduation photos can be posted just minutes after the last graduate files out. Many events come and go at the

college without mention in The Agora. Someone has an idea the day after an edition of The Agora is published, and the event occurs two weeks later – just before the next edition. The Web site will allow the Agora staff to publicize events on a moment’s notice. For that matter, all students will have access to the site, because it will be interactive, complete with blogs and other modern interactive Web tools. The Web site is still a work in progress. A group of students are working on the site under the direction of Terri Gower, a Computer Information Systems instructor. Anyone interested in participating can contact me at deshaw@ monroeccc.edu or Terri Gower at tgower@monroeccc.edu.

May 5, 2009

Some smart goldfish

Agora editor tells students to fill their lives, grab at opportunities

On May 1, I was honored by being the student speaker at MCCC’s graduation. I hope that the message I sent to all of the graduates can be a message for anyone who reads my speech. “Tonight I have brought with me my most trusted and irreplaceable possession…my planner. Now you might think that I am joking or being sarcastic…but I am not, not even a little bit. In all seriousness, I hold in my hands my life, my past year, and without it with me every day I would truly be lost. I am sure I have not convinced some of you yet, so let my facebook prove it to you. I’m sure most of my classmates and audience have heard of this personal profile website. On mine I have posted 50 notes about myself, including my favorite color, nicknames, etc. Number 31 said: “I would literally be lost if I didn’t have my planner with me 24/7.” My newly found friend and confident Kristin decided to post in response, saying: “One day I’m going to steal your planner. Just because I think it would be entertaining for the rest of us. I’m kidding. I know you would kill me.” My brother Phillip, however, warned: “Don’t steal it, because I will get blamed for it, in some roundabout way.” My response was: “Yeah, that definitely wouldn’t be a good idea I would totally freak and Phil’s right, I would blame it on him” When I tell people about my planner obsession, they don’t believe me until about a week later when they have seen me pull it out about a hundred times. Even in high school it was an ongoing joke in my circle of friends to tally how many times they could get me to pull it out during our evenings together. So, yes, this planner is my life – but it is because of one simple fact about me … I am an opportunist. The reason I need this planner is because I am the kind of person who is bound and determined to snatch up every opportunity and experience possible. My entire life I have been involved and it is because I live with a family of opportunists and volunteers. I never knew our schedules were extreme, but merely natural. 4-H has always been a major part of my life, along with sports year round. I was involved in high school clubs and editor of the yearbook and newspaper. Each one of these parts of my life have brought me life lessons, friends, new experiences, further opportunities and, of course, a brand new and larger planner. Monroe County Community College is one of my many opportunities. MC3 was never in my future plans. I was one of those crazy people who thought they had it all figured out, but God had a different path for me to travel. Each one of you has taken on MC3 as an opportunity. Some of you has come back to further your education. Others are fresh out of high school, unsure of their next step. But some of you are completing the most ambitious and incredible opportunity by changing out of a career you’ve had for many years. For me, MC3 is my affirmation. Because of MC3, I was able to start my preparation for teaching journalism when I won the Instructional Journalism scholarship, which embarked me on my adventure as editor of the college newspaper, the Agora. Being a part of this staff has given me

I was sitting back, enjoying myself today, munching on some of those colorful swimming fishies when something caught my eye. Now, I’m one of those odd few who actually read the packages that contain my food. Sometimes I find myself laughing over breakfast at something my cereal box says. But today I found a sea of multi-colored swimming letters on this Goldfish bag that really made me smile. “Sometimes it’s the little things that make life more fun like blowing bubbles or playing ball. If you stop and appreciate the little things, you’ll probably find yourself smiling a little bigger.” What smarts those little goldfish have! Think about it: How many times do we take a minute out of our daily college lives to stop and enjoy the little things? The other day I was driving to school thinking about all the homework I was going to get, and it was just an ordinary day. But on my way there I noticed something: there were two bald eagles sitting right in one of the trees by the river! They were so pretty—the symbol of this amazing country. I was so excited that I picked up my phone and called my dad to tell him (not while I was driving, of course, that would be dangerous). He was obviously not as excited as I was, but he let me squeal of my good fortune through the phone. What I realized that day was this: I love my daily drives to school. I get my own miniature sight-seeing trip every day. I get to see the gorgeous River Raisin, the parks, and in the winter, a beautiful white blanket of snow covers my scene. Even though I take that drive every day, if I pause to look around, I notice something new each time. This idea was reiterated when my public speaking class took a walk through the woods on campus at the beginning of this semester. There was snow everywhere and we all froze. Our assignment on that walk was to think. Just

Brandy Werner Copy Editor

think. No talking. There was not a single person in that classroom who didn’t realize: “whoa, we need to slow down.” On that walk we actually noticed the berries growing along the path, the sound of the birds chirping despite the cold, and the small creek that ran alongside the path, flowing despite winter’s cold embrace—things we would not have noticed had we been running. It’s easy to forget that sometimes. Life does not have to be all about running around, working, going to school, taking care of the family, etc. My class took that walk again toward the end of the semester. Amazingly, we had already forgotten to slow down. Our lives just speed up so fast and we get so caught up in the motion that we forget to look around us. Remember to enjoy the little things as spring takes you in a new direction in life, whether it be graduating from MCCC or just taking a break from schoolwork. Life is so much more worth living if you take the time to appreciate things like blowing bubbles or playing ball. And you find yourself smiling a little bit bigger, too.

Welcoming unknowns On May 1st, I will formally say goodbye to MCCC. To say it will be bitter-sweet is an understatement. In fact, it will be more bitter than sweet, at least at first. I am one of those people who finds it difficult to adjust to new situations and new people. I am terrified of having to prove myself and work my way into acceptance. I would much rather already be the top dog. I would much rather have a routine where I know I am appreciated and don’t have to work for that warm fuzzy feeling, the feeling I have right now at MCCC. Even though, MCCC is not a humongous university, I was terrified of going. Now I find my first semester blues hilarious, but at the time, I would not even talk about them I was so embarrassed.  I remember falling down the C building stairs— flinging my lunchbox over the railing—and landing in a fetal position. My mind flashes to the look on my first tutee’s face as she tried to comprehend all the knowledge I embedded in her (Another tutor later described that girl as a deer caught in the headlights). So what changed? How did I go from being scared of my own shadow to loving life at MCCC? I got involved. The best decision (worst at the time) I made at MCCC was starting my semester in Advanced Composition. I had no idea what I was getting into. It was nothing less then English boot camp. It was like someone turned on a treadmill full force and I had to somehow stay on. Yet somehow I survived. That experience pushed my endurance to its limits. Now nothing is difficult. It is like I was trained to be a Navy Seal, and now have to do Army protocol. Not that Army work is easy, however, once you have been pushed that far you understand that you can overcome anything. But still I can relate to new freshmen who are reading this and thinking, “yeah that is great but I just don’t know if I fit anywhere.” My advice: devote yourself whole heartedly to whatever you do. You know the person that seems to be involved in everything? Well as great as that is for her resume, there are a couple things you should know about her. First of all, it took time for her to be able to

The Agora Staff Members Editor-in-Chief Design Editor-in-Chief Emily Chandonnet Assistant Editor Jennifer Niswender Adviser Dan Shaw Copy Editor-in-Chief Casey Cheap Design Team Mary Rose Takacs Resa Waldecker Kristin Stepinski Miranda Panik Jennifer Niswender

Copy Assistant Editor Michael Crossman Marketing Team Casey Cheap Asia Rapai Copy Team Asia Rapai Brandy Werner Marcus Akers Staff Jeremy Hickey Susan Banoski Alan McKee

Resa Waldecker Designer

balance so many positions. I know from experience that the process of fitting in is not a one time extravaganza. Going to a student government meeting once does not automatically make you fit in, just as going to an international studies group and saying nothing the whole semester will make you fit in. But once you find the one niche you are comfortable at, you gain the confidence you need to reach out to groups you normally wouldn’t be interested in. After I stopped worrying about dying on the C building landing, I realized I was going to survive Advanced Comp. And eventually, tutoring gave me the confidence to join the staff at the Agora. And that brings me to my last point. You have to participate if you want to gain anything. You have to be willing to put yourself out there and not worry about people judging you. And I can promise you that you will eventually feel like you belong. But even as I chaste all the new freshmen, I feel like I am being a hypocrite. ThoseworriesthatIhadaboutgoingtoMCCCare back because in the fall, I am going to Wayne State. But I am confident that the skills I developed at MCCC will make that transition easier for me. I know what I am capable of now. I urge freshmen to let MCCC take you on that amazing journey of self-awareness. Everyone always looks back on their life ands wishes they could redo their high school years. But I seriously wish I could relive these last two years at MCCC. They were the, “best years of my life.”

The Agora Editorial Policy The Agora is published by the students of Monroe County Community College, 1555 S. Raisinville Rd., Monroe, MI, 48161. The editorial office is located in 202 of the Life Sciences Bldg., (734) 384-4186. agora@monroeccc.edu. Editorial policy: Unsigned editorials represent the majority opinion of The Agora staff. Signed columns represent the opinion of the writer. All letters to the editor must include a signature, address and phone number for verification purposes. The Agora reserves the right to edit for clarity, accuracy, length and libel. The Agora is a student-managed newspaper that supports a free student press and is a member of the Michigan Community College Press Association, the Michigan Collegiate Press Association, the Michigan Press Association, the Community College Journalism Association, College Media Advisers, Associated Collegiate Press and the Student Press Law Center. Story suggestions are welcome. Let us know what you’d like to see in The Agora - it’s your newspaper. Submissions of stories or photos alsoare welcome. Email them to Agora@monroeccc.edu or bring them to ouroffice. Dan Shaw, Adviser

May 5, 2009

Campus News

THE AGORA

3

The music of his life Music director John Tyner has decided to retire after teaching music for 11 years at MCCC “I have loved every minute of what I’ve done for the last forty years. I wouldn’t change a thing. I’ve been blessed.” John Tyner Music Director John Tyner directs the Agora Chorale in one of its last performances before his retirement. Photo by Mark Spenoso

Elizabeth Terrasi Freelance Writer

John Tyner is an outstanding singer. He might even be better as a teacher. For the past 11 years, Tyner could be seen on Tuesday nights in his office that connects to the music room in the La-Z-Boy Center at MCCC, preparing for the night’s nearly-three-hour rehearsal. But after teaching music for the Agora Chorale for little more than a decade, he has decided to retire from his position at MCCC. “Retirement is good. It’s what we all go for,” he said. “Now it’s time to move on and let someone else add their expertise to the program.” Although 11 years at the college seems like a short time to retire, at nearly 62 years old Tyner has had his fair share of a music career. Born and raised in Dearborn, Michigan, John Tyner didn’t pursue music until his junior year in high school, where he decided to join the choir. “I wouldn’t be caught dead in it,” he said with a slight laugh. He began practicing every day, but his vocal talent seemed to be something that came naturally to him. The practice only made him better. “I have studied hard and I’ve learned how to use that instrument.

It’s just like any other music instrument,” he said of the benefits of practice. Tyner also plays the piano, but his favorite part of music is singing because it is so personal. “My favorite instrument is the human voice. It’s the purest. It comes from within,” he said with a big smile. After his decision to join the choir in high school, music soon became something he loved, and he eventually pursued it as a career at Wayne State University. He began his career as a choir teacher when he was 29 years old at Monroe High School and continued for 25 years. Then for four years beginning in the fall of 1988, he taught at both the high school and MCCC. In 2002, he retired from his job at Monroe High and dedicated his time to teaching at MCCC. He’s made an impact on the music program, with family members of students and other Monroe Country residents filling up the Meyer Theatre for the choir’s annual performances. What is unique about MCCC’s Agora Chorale is that it is comprised of both students and members from the community. He said the loyalty of the community members has been great; many have been a part of the pro-

gram since he began. “Engaging the kids with members from the community is a neat thing to see,” he said. Mr. Tyner said the highlights of his years as a teacher are raising a musical challenge to the students and being able to see a program grow. He then compared it to coaching any sport - seeing the students’ improvement is rewarding. “My favorite part of teaching is watching kids develop an understanding of the emotion and the technique of a piece of music,” he said. He loves being with his students and learning and refining a piece of music together. That’s what he most looks forward to before every class. “It’s great to see that growth from week to week,” he said. He laughed when explaining how the week before a concert is boring for him because everything is almost repetitive. The students already understand the music, and for the most part have perfected it to the point where they don’t need as much direction. Mr. Tyner said that teaching at MCCC isn’t a breeze, however. There are some tough aspects of the job, such as retention and growth. It’s hard to recruit and retain students since MCCC is only a twoyear college.

“You only have your kids for a while. It tends to be a drop-in program,’’ he said. “It’s hard for the program to grow when you only have a couple years to work with the students.” He spends a lot of time outside of class looking for new ways to teach music. “I don’t listen to music as one might think. I don’t do a lot of leisure listening. I’m usually looking for new material to use for a class. It’s hard to not be critical as you listen to a song.” The concerts, which usually pack the Meyer Theatre, are a highlight of the job for Tyner. “The concerts are something I really look forward to,” said Patricia Cook, a former community member of the choir. “John and his students always have a great performance,” Cook said. “The music is just beautiful. John is so professional and has a good sense of humor, which makes it enjoyable for everyone. He’s fun to watch.” Although Tyner seems like a naturally bubbly person, he admits that the stresses of the job sometimes make it hard to be positive. “There are times when frustration gets you,” he said. “But the good Lord gives you a choice every day when you wake up of how you will act. When something is as

emotionally connected as performing music is, sometimes things get tough. You just try to enjoy the experience.” Some of that frustration emerged when Tyner received grief for the sacred songs the choir has performed at many of their concerts. However, he explained that many of the most beautiful songs came from the church. “Sacred versus secular is an argument that will go on forever. It is not based on intellect; it’s based on emotion. I don’t think it will ever be solved,” he said. Despite the ongoing sacred/secular conflict, Mr. Tyner does not pick music based on either sacredness or secularity. Rather, he picks music that is worth devoting time to, something the audience will enjoy and something that he can teach from; and most of those songs happen to be sacred. While he has endured difficult times like these, Tyner says he has immensely enjoyed his career at MCCC. “I’ve felt good support from the school and the students,” he said. Mr. Tyner doesn’t only get support from teachers and students, but perhaps more importantly, his family. “Both of my children sing. My wife is a very critical and seasoned listener. She is extremely support-

ive,” Tyner said of his family. Although he is retiring, he has influenced many students in a special way, and he will be greatly missed. Rebecca James, a 2003 graduate and music scholarship recipient, said that joining the Agora choir under the direction of John Tyner was one of the best things she’s done for herself as a vocalist. “I enjoyed our weekly rehearsals very much,” James said. “I learned a lot from being a part of that music.  Mr. Tyner encouraged us to sing out: full of spirit, joyfully.  Our repertoire required us to learn more about the origins of music, various stylings, and sight reading.” “He was also a great director — passionate, kind-hearted, and fun,” she said. Mr. Tyner will be directing the choir for the last time as an MCCC professor at the commencement ceremony on May 1. “I have loved every minute of what I’ve done for the last forty years,” he said. “I wouldn’t change a thing. I’ve been blessed.” And although he is retiring, Tyner is not giving up on music. “I still work with the church choir. I’m just working on something else,” he said. Now, it’s time for the church choir to be blessed by his passion, God-given talent, and his dedication to music.

Teaching to gardening Dr. Karen Brooke retires after 31 years at MCCC Brandy Werner Copy Editor

Dr. Karen Brooke will soon be trading her life of teaching nursing students for a life of gardening and dog agility courses. After serving the college for 31 years, Dr. Karen Brooke, Professor of Nursing, is retiring. “It’s my life’s work,” she said. “I’ve devoted my entire career to teaching nursing.” Dr. Brooke has brought 46 years of psychiatric nursing experience to MCCC’s faculty. The MCCC Board of Trustees acknowledged her retirement: “She has demonstrated a high level of achievement in the profession…and is greatly respected by her faculty peers for her expertise, frankness, and openness,” read a

resolution approved by the board on April 27. Throughout her years, Dr. Brooke was able to watch and participate in the growth of MCCC’s nursing program. “I decided to be a nursing educator because I knew I had something to offer students,” she said. “The quality of nursing graduates from MCCC is superior to that of other colleges,” she said. “It was a privilege to see that develop.” In fact, MCCC’s nursing graduates are highly sought after for employment. “I can say with pride that I teach nursing at Monroe County Community College,” Dr. Brooke said. Although her life has been devoted to teaching nursing, Dr. Brooke said she’s ready for retirement.

Volleyball Players!!!

“When August comes and all my colleagues are heading back to work, I’ll be canning and preserving vegetables,” Dr. Brooke said. She is taking classes in gourmet cooking to learn how to make many different kinds of food, including Italian and Chinese. She has another big project to start as soon as the semester ends. “I’m going to train my 10-monthold puppy, Roddie (named after Dr. Karen Brooke Hillary Rodham Clinton), to do agility,” she said. She has already purchased an “I don’t know how I’ve been agility set. working as long as I have,” she said. Although she will not be return“I have too many things to do.” ing to MCCC, Dr. Brooke valued Among her list of activities is her time at this college. starting an extensive vegetable “It’s a privilege to have been a garden. She has already ordered 20 part of the outstanding nursing pro- Dr. Karen Brooke in her office at MCCC. yards of viable soil for the project. gram at MCCC,” she said.

The volleyball club is looking for more members. If you’re a novice player or an expert feel free to contact the Fitness Center and ask about joining the Volleyball Club. Fitness Center: 384-4423

“It’s my life’s

work. I’ve devoted my entire career to teaching nursing.”

Scholarships

Agora Photo by Brandy Werner

College funds running low?

Job not keeping the bank full?

Want to focus on studies instead of taking on more hours? Check out the college website, you might be eligible for financial help. The online applications are easy and don’t take any time to fill out.

4 THE AGORA Graduation Special

May 5, 2009

Congratulations!

May 5, 2009

Graduation Special

THE AGORA

Agora photos by Michael Crossman

Class of 2009

Enriching lives; opportunity knocks at commencement

Michael Crossman Assistant Copy Editor

Casey Cheap receives his degree from MCCC President David Nixon. MCCC graduates wait in the hallway until it is time to walk into another chapter of their lives.

Right: Some students decorated the tops of their graduation caps. Far Right: Students wait anxsiously until it’s their turn to walk.

Congratulations, graduating class of 2009; welcome to the real world. MCCC’s 42nd annual commencement ceremony posted a record number of participating students – 213 students walked across the stage to receive their degrees. Grand Marshall for this year’s graduation was history/sociology professor Dr. James DeVries. Devries, who has been employed at the college since 1970, spoke of 10,000 students successfully completing the requirements for graduation on his watch. In closing his speech, DeVries offered his advice to the graduates. “Be brave, confident, and hopeful. The world really is yours,” he said. “This is an amazing night, as well as a wonderful accomplishment for these students,” MCCC President David Nixon said. Randy Daniels, Vice President of Student Services, also expressed his enthusiasm about the evening. “This is just fantastic, especially in a community who’s lagging behind in education,” he said. “This is a celebration of all their (students) hard work and discipline.” The festivities also included two student speakers, one from a transferring program and one from an occupational program. Emily Chandonnet was the representative for transfer programs. She was nominated by two professors and her faculty mentor was Mark Bergmooser, assistant professor of speech and tae kwon do. “Historically, the commencement speaker was someone who has experienced a tragedy or some hardship in their life. Emily has had none,” Bergmooser said. “Emily comes from a great family, good luck, and fortune. She is the average person who could be an inspiration to anyone. She is a prime example of talent making the

most of an opportunity,” he said. Chandonnet focused her speech on her day planner. She used the significance of her planner to her everyday life to emphasize that she is an opportunist and to encourage her fellow graduates to grab all the opportunities they can. She spoke of her personal journey, as well the journeys her classmates were venturing on to. The occupational programs selected nursing student Jeffery Pratt as their honorary speaker. Pratt, who was highly recognized by his fellow students, spoke of the sacrifices his family has endured through the long journey. “I just kept telling them, one more year, one more month, one more week, until I’m finally here now,” he said. Along with the two student speakers, the Board of Trustees selected William Terrasi as the 2009 Alumnus of the Year. The board cited his community leadership, service to the college and his distinct achievements in his chosen occupation. “How cool is this? This a great experience for me seeing how I finished second a couple of years ago, and now to be given this honor is really neat,” he said. Terrasi had a little bit more inspiration than before, considering that both of his daughters were in their caps and gowns as well. “It means even more to be speaking at my daughters’ graduation,” he said. Terrasi spoke to the graduates about motivation. He use the acronym G.R.E.A.T. (Greatness, Reliable, Educated, Active, and Tenacious) to deliver his message. He also mentioned two stimulus packages in his speech. The first was the newest package the U.S. is receiving, that being the graduates themselves. The other was the term Carpe Diem, seize the day. “It is up to you (graduates) to choose to make a difference,” he said.

Honorary Grand Marshal Dr. James Devries encourages the students to be brave and confident during his speech.

Above: Faculty member Mark Bergmooser introduces student speaker Emily Chandonnet. Bottom Left: President David Nixon speaks at the graduation ceremony. Below: Mark Felder conducted the College/Community Symphony Band during the ceremony, while graduates walked out of a significant chapter of their lives.

5

6 THE AGORA Campus News

May 5, 2009

Students, faculty win honors Susan Banoski Staff

Mark Naber, associate professor of Mathematics, was named the outstanding faculty member.

Terri Gower, Computer Information Systems instructor, was named the outstanding adjunct faculty member.

MCCC’s faculty and student of the year awards were presented during a special ceremony held April 22 in the Meyer Theatre. Resa Waldecker, a writing fellow and member of The Agora staff, was named the outstanding student of the year. Mark Naber, associate professor of Mathematics, was named the outstanding faculty member, and Terri Gower, Computer Information Systems instructor, was named the outstanding adjunct faculty member. Both awards were presented by Dr. Grace Yackee, vice president of instruction. Dr. Yackee also announced the Dean’s List for winter 2009 and fall 2008. Each student on the list has attained a 3.5 or higher grade point average while carrying at least 12 credit hours during both semesters. Student Government is the formal voice of the student body at MCCC. Representatives serve on the Campus and Community Events Committee, the Institutional Planning Committee and the Outstanding Faculty Award Committee. The officers include President Mary Grace Cuccia, Vice President Jacob McLaughlin, Secretary Kari Fuerstenberg, Treasurer Monica

Olmsted, Liaison Sara Richter and Historian Caitlyn DeHoust. Their advisor is Thomas Ryder. A number of awards were presented by various departments at MCCC, including: Business Student of the Year award, Kimberly Waterhouse; George Rhodes Writing Fellow Award, Tara Adrian; Outstanding Nursing Student Award, Alyssa Langley; Spirit of Nursing Award for the US Army/ NSNA, Jeffery Pratt; Outstanding Respiratory Therapy Student Award, Christopher Cutler. Freshman Chemisty Award, Kirk Zmijewski; Organic Chemistry Award, Tina Brack; Outstanding Mathematics Student Award, Charles Toeppe; Outstanding Administrative Professional Award, Elizabeth Kern. Carol Kish Scholarship Award, Andrew Pearce; All-USA Academic Team Nominees, Matthew Smudz and Resa Waldecker; Dr. Ronald Campbell Student Government Award, Mary Grace Cuccia. The winners of the Industrial Technology Awards include: Alex Holowicki, Electronics and Computer Technoloy; Kenneth Matson, Welding; Dan Lake, Construction Management. Agora Editor-in-Chief Emily Chandonnet was honored as the Outstanding Journalism student. Agora staff members Casey Cheap,

Michael Crossman, and Kristin Stepinski also were honored. The Michigan Scholars included: Benjamin Collins, Cara Hosler, and Matthew Smudz. The winners of the President’s Academic Achievement Award included: Sarah Booth, Dave Bussell II, Benjamin Collins, Bradley Hooven, Brittany Leslie, Lauren Moore, Sarah Ping, Candace Savonen, Elizabeth Terrasi, Charles Toeppe, Ryan Wagner and Debbie Waltz. Students also were honored for their participation in various clubs, including the Broadcasting Club, advised by Milward Beaudry, Jr., the International Studies Club, advised by Dr. Joanna Sabo, and the Oasis club, advised by Brenda Kraus. Lambda Alpha Nu is a new club at MCCC, advised by Will Hilliker, Assistant Professor of Computer Information Systems. The Math and Science Society (MASS) is advised by three faculty members. The Newman Club is also a new club this year that is being co-advised by Dr. William McCloskey and Mark Bergmooser. The Sophomore Respiratory Therapy Student Club and the Freshman Respiratory Therapy Student Club adviser is Bonnie Boggs, Writing fellow and Agora staff member Resa Waldecker was named and the Student Nurses Association the outstanding student for the 2008-2009 year. is co-advised by Dr. Karen Brooke Photo by Mark Spenosa and Bonnie Welniak.

Big Read: Morality, economics Panel talks about changes since the 1920s.

Asia Rapai Copy Editor

Ashley Morris

Freelance Writer

A panel of experts participating in the Big Read’s 2009 Panel Discussion compared today’s times with the setting of The Great Gatsby in the 1920s. Much of the discussion centered on money and the economy, but it started out with the issue of morality. Panel member Tom Eley, a writer for the World Socialist Web site, noted that each level of society looks at morality differently, and that people should look past the forms of morality portrayed by the media. He suggested that greed and corruption by big corporations is a more serious form of immorality than the foibles of individuals. Another panel member, Timothy Messer-Kruse, chair of the Ethnic Studies Department at Bowling Green University, offered his thoughts on author F. Scott Fitzgerald’s book, The Great Gatsby, the subject of this year’s Big Read. “I think Fitzgerald assumes his readers have a moral compass that his characters do not,” MesserKruse said. Messer-Kruse went on to say that during Fitzgerald’s time, there was a moral rot, not a crisis like there is today. He said that in the 1920s there was a lot of “old money,” meaning that money ran in a person’s family. He also said that many peoples’ wealth was tied to a specific industry. One example used was Henry Ford and the automobile industry. He contrasted that to today, when it’s easier for someone to acquire

Panel members, from left: student Kristin Stepinski, Doug Chafin, CEO of Monroe Bank & Trust, state Sen. Randy Richardville, Timothy Messer-Kruse, chair of Ethnic Studies at Bowling Green University, and Tom Eley, World Socialist Web site writer. Photo by Michael Crossman

wealth without a rich family or owning an industry. “During the book’s time frame, there is a much more closed culture of wealth. Rich families married rich families. In today’s culture, it’s more possible for someone from great poverty to find themselves with great wealth,” Messer-Kruse said. State Sen. Randy Richardville, R-Monroe, who also was a panel member, said free-spending lifestyles contributed to this economy. “Many families are over extended,” he said. “We want it and we want it now.”

Panel members noted that people today have used many coping mechanisms to try to make ends meet, such as the woman in the family working, using credit cards, and taking loans out on mortgages. Panel member Kristin Stepinski said women’s lives have changed since the 1920’s. It is all right for mothers to stay home or go to work now – they have that choice. Women have more options today than in the 1920s. One thing agreed upon by many of the panel members was that people must strive for things that may seem unattainable. Stepinski gave her opinion on reaching for goals.

“I think people who are active in their community and spend time with their families are going to achieve it (the American dream),” she said. Messer-Kruse brought the discussion back to the book. “The book can inform us, we can’t just look at somebody and judge their motivation,” he said. He went on to say that one of the characters, Myrtle Wilson, was the clearest of all in the book. She knew what she wanted, he said, and she worked for it. “For that sin of independence, she is killed.”

Another option is to ‘rent’ a textbook. For example, a textbook could be rented to a friend or classmate for $20. After the semester, they would give the book back. Doing this for even four semesters would yield $80, which might be more than what the bookstore or web site would have paid. “I usually ask a friend, or the friend asks me if I have the book and I ask for a little cost back,” Samberg said. Make sure the person who is “renting” the textbook gives a phone number and email address to help with retrieving the book. The task of buying textbooks for the coming semester is usually the next step. Students fill MCCC’s bookstore at the beginning of each semester to buy their needed textbooks. The prices may shock some. “We do not add $100 onto the books, like everyone thinks,” Lehr said. If the cost that MCCC charges

for textbooks is bothersome, there are other alternatives. Some stores sell college textbooks through their web sites. Barnes and Noble, for example, tends to charge 10 percent to 30 percent less than the manufacture’s recommended price. College students are usually pressed for cash and know of different web sites that charge less. “EBay, Amazon.com and a little while ago I went to a site half.com,” Spencer said. On average, half.com lists books for at least 40 percent if not 50 percent less than the manufacture’s price. Most Web sites offer both new and used book options. However, with ordering online there is the possibility of the wrong item coming, or the order being delayed. Ordering up to four to six weeks prior to needing the textbook can be helpful if there are difficulties with the order. And watch out for shipping, which can add $5-$12 extra.

Students have book options Mary Rose Takacs Designer

At the end of every semester students have the choice to sell their books back to the college bookstore or to use alternative ways of obtaining a refund for their money spent. However, the money is not usually in the students’ hands long before it’s re-spent on new books for the upcoming semester. The MCCC college bookstore buys back books that have not been replaced with a new addition, provided the textbooks are in fair condition. “You can highlight in them as long as it is readable,” said Rachel Lehr, an MCCC student and employee at the bookstore. The amount of money MCCC gives back is different depending on the book. Students usually receive no more than 50 percent of the amount they paid, according to Lehr. “Not even 50 was given back,” Katie Samberg, MCCC student, said.

Middle College becoming a reality at MCCC

Some students prefer to sell their textbooks back to the college instead of through a website. “Usually I just sell them back to the bookstore,” Ryan Spencer, MCCC student, said. There are other means to receiving a refund and possibly obtaining more money than was originally spent on the textbook, provided a new addition has not been released. The web site collegebookbuyers. com will buy back text books no matter where they were originally purchased. Their average refund is 40 percent. A search for different companies which buy back college textbooks is done by campusbooks.com. By typing in the ISBN number, hits from an average of five different companies are listed. Each company lists the price they are willing to pay - usually between 35 to 45 percent of the original price. Students can compare the college book store and these websites to determine the best value for them.

The role of Monroe County Middle College (MCMC) is becoming more clear. The MCCC Board of Trustees held a special study meeting with representatives of MCMC on April 27. The MCCC Board first met with MCMC representatives in the fall of 2007. Since then, MCMC officials have been making plans for the middle college, which is scheduled to open in the fall. The middle college will teach students about working in health care through a five-year program of high school classes, college classes, and experience in the health care field. MCMC Principal Robert Krueger and Dean of Students Sarah Richardville informed the board members of the latest plans. Dr. Stephen McNew, assistant superintendent of curriculum at the Monroe County Intermediate School District (ISD), introduced the top employees of the middle college. “These are two dynamic, energetic people,” he said. “We are happy to have them on board.” He said they have been doing research by visiting the college campus and Monroe High School and meeting with students from public and parochial schools. They have also visited other middle college campuses in Michigan, he said. Of the issues that were discussed at the meeting, the location of MCMC was of interest to the board members. A location hasn’t been determined, but there are thoughts as to where the best place for MCMC would be. “We would like it to be as centrally located as possible,” Richardville said. Krueger and Richardville also explained that they want MCMC to be beneficial to the community and to its students. “Our preferred option would be to be located on the MCCC campus,” Richardville said. According to them, having MCMC in its own building on MCCC’s campus would help to make the students more comfortable with the area. They said that it could help the students transition into the college classes they will eventually take at MCMC. Krueger and Richardville also explained that MCMC students would be under constant supervision by MCMC staff and that they would not be expected to act as college students until their fourth or fifth year at the middle college. “We want to support the kids emotionally,” Richardville said. “We want to groom them to be

Grant plans

In October 2008, MCCC, the ISD, and Mercy Memorial Hospital applied for a planning grant, which was awarded in Nov. 2009. The grant will be awarded to MCMC as follows: 1st Year 2nd Year 3rd Year 4th Year 5th Year

$250,000 $250,000 $125,000 $62,500 Self-sufficient

ready for college.” Although no decision on a location has been made, the representatives of MCMC want to work with the MCCC Board. “We are looking at this as a partnership and coming up with options,” Krueger said. “There is still a lot of work to be done with this.” “Certainly MCMC would not be a financial burden on MCCC,” he added. Another concern of the board members involved college students and middle college students competing for their education in the health care field. According to Krueger and Richardville, the middle college students will not be competing with MCCC’s students. They said that students from the middle college would only be in competition with MCCC students when they become full-time college students. However, the middle college students could get into programs earlier than some MCCC students because they would gain more experience at an earlier age. “That’s their only advantage,” MCCC Vice President of Instruction Grace Yackee said. Krueger explained how MCMC could help the community by training students and encouraging them to work locally in the growing health care field. “The goal is to make them employable,” he said. “Train and retain.” A meeting was held April 20 to explain the middle college to interested parents and students. According to Krueger, about 50 students and parents attended. Since then, Krueger has received 30 complete student applications and said that there were around 15 other applications that were in progress. The 15 page application can be found at the ISD’s website, www.misd.k12.mi.us. The study meeting started with a powerpoint presentation and developed into a discussion. Krueger and Richardville assured the Board of Trustees that they could contact both of them to discuss any more issues. “Digest away, assimilate, let us know if you have any questions,” Richardville said. Overall, the board members were satisfied with the meeting. “Lots of good ideas,” Vice Chair William Braunlich said. “Excellent presentation.”

May 5, 2009

Feature

THE AGORA

7

Andrade trial becomes victory for GLAAD Miranda Panik Designer

Justin Zapata was sixteen when he took the name of Angie and decided to live his life as a woman. That decision led to Angie’s brutal and untimely murder. Angie met Allen Andrade through Mocospace.com, a social networking site where people can meet and network for various activities, including sexual. After their first meeting together, Angie Zapata performed oral sex for Allen, but would not allow him to reciprocate. CNN.com stated that Allen then spent three days with Angie at her apartment. While Angie was gone one day, Allen discovered pictures that led him to question her gender, which he already had suspicions about. Once Angie returned home, Andrade began grabbing at her genitalia, and he discovered that she was in fact a man. Andrade became very violent and punched Angie in the head numerous times, knocking her to the ground. At one point, he grabbed a fire extinguisher and repeatedly hit her with it. Once Angie was dead, Andrade cleaned up the scene, stole her car, and fled. He was caught by the police two weeks later. The July 16, 2008 murder of Angie Zapata saddened her hometown of Greely, Colorado, as well as transgendered communities across

the nation. Allen Andrade’s murder trial began on April 14, after the jury was carefully selected. Though Andrade admitted to killing Angie, the defense tried to say his violent act was a crime of passion. TransGriot.com stated that Andrade was allegedly a part of a gang. Being a part of that gang culture means that all sexual activity considered to be non-heterosexual is punishable by beat down, expulsion, or even death. This made killing Angie seem inevitable to Andrade. Evidence the prosecution used in the murder trial consisted of statements to police of Andrade admitting to stealing Zapata’s car, as well as phone conversations from jail to Andrade’s girlfriend, where he stated “gay things must die.” “It honestly doesn’t surprise me to hear about this murder. It really makes me believe that there is no good left in the world and it sickens me that someone could be that full of hate,” said MCCC student Katie Grochowicz. Also used in the case is evidence from a friend saying Angie looked convincingly like a woman, as well as phone records that note over 670 separate communications between Angie and Andrade between July 1-16. Throughout the trial, Andrade refused to speak, nor did he testify in his own defense. His only word was “No” when asked if he wished to address the court.

“It sickens me that someone could be that full of hate.” MCCC student Katie Grochowicz

Photo courtesy of glaadblog.org

Angie Zapata was born Justin Zapata on August 5, 1989. She was brutally murdered on July 17, 2008. Her grave is located in Greeley, Colorado.

Once the verdict was in, Andrade was found guilty of first-degree murder and a bias-motivated crime. He was sentenced to life in prison with no parole.

“I think the court was a little too hard on him. This guy definitely deserves to go to jail for what he did but you need to consider that it was literally life or death for him. If he

had not killed her, he and his family would have been in serious danger once one of his gang members found out. You need to look at it from both sides,” said Melissa Anderson, a Monroe County resident. “However, hate crimes cannot be tolerated and this is a landmark case to send the message out to everyone, change is indeed coming,” Melissa said. “Just because someone is transgendered, bisexual, or gay does not mean they are any less of a person and the fact that he was in a gang is meaningless compared to the value of the life of another human.” Not only was the verdict a win for Angie Zapata and her family, it was also a milestone for the Gay & Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation. According to GLAAD, this is the first time in the nation that a state hate crime statute resulted in a conviction in a transgender person’s murder. The high profile trial gained much attention across the nation. Members of GLADD were present in the courtroom every day of the trial to see the verdict. Although Andrade has no chance of getting out of prison, for some people, this

punishment isn’t enough. “I think he should have been sentenced to the death penalty,” said Washtenaw Community College student Adam Ridener. “It’s not fair that more people aren’t punished for hate crimes of any sort. I’m just glad someone finally got what they deserve. We’re all people. I don’t understand what makes one person think they are better than another.” Bradley Brown also agreed that Andrade should have received the death penalty. “Depending on the execution laws in the state, he should be moved to death row. There is too much hate in the world as it is, and killing someone for having a different lifestyle than you is unforgivable.” Though nothing can bring Angie Zapata back to her family, they will always have their memories of her. “We would ask everyone to remember my sister as we do, as a beautiful, wonderful, precious teenager,” a family member said. “She would want us to remember the happy times in her life. And in Angie’s memory, to make the world a better place.”

pump blood effectively. Eating one MUFA with each meal is recommended by Liz Vaccariello, Editor-in-chief of Prevention magazine. Particularly in northern states, red meats are ordered at restaurants or bought at a grocery store, because fish is usually more expensive. However, too much intake of red meats can cause health problems. Studies show that a rise in blood cholesterol concentration and clogged arteries block the flow of oxygen-rich blood to the heart and brain. Eating red meats can cause this. Free-range, hormone-free meats (specifically chicken) are the best meats to eat, according to Sembly. Fish are filled with vitamins, minerals and fat, which the body uses to help the health of the eyes, the liver, and the heart. Fish, on average, contains 20 grams of protein per piece. The body takes longer to digest protein, but it tends to use it over a longer time period. This allows for continual energy. Vegetables contain various vitamins and minerals the body needs, such as iron, Vitamin A, B, C, and K. Magnesium and potassium are also found in vegetables. Magnesium helps soreness and fatigue in muscles. Potassium helps with the body’s ability to stay hydrated and keep balanced energy. In addition, drinking at least eight to ten-ounce glasses of water a day is recommended. Water helps flush

toxins out, keep the body’s temperature regular and aids in circulation, digestion and transportation of nutrients. If you’re looking to lose weight, drinking an eight-ounce-glass of water about a half an hour before eating a meal will help to fill the stomach and decrease the amount of ingested food. This will automatically cut the calorie amount down for each meal. “Ideally they say 1,500 calories for women and 2,000 for men. Even 2,000 is fine for women. You’ll still lose weight; it will just be slower. It’s all about the kind of calories you eat and selective eating,” Sembly said.

What does the human body really say about our food? Mary Rose Takacs Designer

Making a taco bell run in the middle of the night, to get a break from studying, is a way to refuel. Eating tacos and chugging a mountain dew can bring the adrenaline back. However, an hour or two later the blood sugar drops and the ability to think can be difficult once again. The food the body ingests contributes to the body’s health. The body can use healthy food in various ways, no matter what the age of the person is. “You can add nearly 30 years to your life span by eating healthy and exercising,” Christiaan Leeuwenburg, a Ph.D. professor of Aging and Geriatrics at the University of Florida, said. Certain foods are necessary for the bodies overall health, whereas others do not give the body its desired nutrition. In addition, some foods burn easier, and others take longer to burn. Carbohydrates, for example are in many foods. “Not all carbs are bad. Quality carbs, from whole and sprouted grains, the body will take time to burn,” Ruthie Sembly, office mandager at Claudia’s Health Food Sore, said. The body tends to absorb more nutrients when it takes longer to burn complex carbs. This can allow the body to emit energy at a slower, consistent rate. Some quality carbs include 12

Agora photo by Mary Rose Takacs

Fresh organic fruit, stawberries, blueberries, peaches, oranges, pears are all sources of vitamins and minerals.

grain breads, whole wheat pasta, and organic granola. However, with “empty carbs”, like white breads, pasta, rice, and white sugar, health issues can arise. These carbs tend to cause weight gain. “Empty carbs raise blood sugar and cholesterol. They burn faster

Driving while using a cell, dangerous? Alan Mckee Staff

Along with donning eyeliner and lipstick, gabbing to your passengers, tending to the children and munching on french fries, cell phones are a distraction when driving. The U.S. Department of Transportation stresses that when operating a vehicle, a driver’s attention should be placed on skill learned through driver’s education courses. There are more than 200 million people using cell phones in the United States. Unfortunately, the increased use of cell phones has also spilled onto the roads. In April of 2009, the National Safety Council called for a ban, eliminating the use of cell phones while driving. This ban would also include hands-free models as well. The city of Detroit in 2006 enacted a law banning cells in use while driving. The resulting consequences involve getting a ticket if you are using a cell phone during a police stop. In Macomb County, plans of issuing $500 fines for charges of distracted driving are on the horizon. The fines will also be issued for text

and cause a lack of brain activity,” Sembly said. Some of the most common foods that doctors say to stay away from are high fatty foods, particularly the saturated fat in food like fried foods and fast food. Saturated fats are triglycerides, which contain only saturated fat

molecules. However, monounsaturated fatty acids, also known as MUFA’s, are the fats the body needs to function properly. Dark chocolate, extra virgin olive oil, almonds, walnuts, and avocado’s, are some. They aid in the health of the eyes, the brain, and the heart’s ability to

messaging while driving. It isn’t a crime to talk to passengers while driving. In fact, having someone along may prevent causes of road fatigue. In these cases, why would banning hands-free cells be feasible? This has become an arbitrary issue when trying to stop an all-out cell phone ban. Two major problems of cell phones are: In order to dial a number when placing a call, one must take their eyes off the road. And secondly, the driver may get so wrapped up in their conversation, that concentration on driving skills are comparable to drivers who have Photo courtesy of citywest.ca .com consumed excessive alcohol. To get an inside look about the Woman driving while talking on a cell phone. hazards of driving and cell phone usage, there are training programs available for drivers to provide guidelines for safer use. These may 1. Launch a national education campaign. stress such training as saving em2. Work with state departments to educate novice drivers. ployers who rely on business usage 3. Explain the risks of distraction resulting from GPS devices. of cell phones, millions of dollars 4. Develop voluntary safety standards for GPS devices. in liability, plus ensure the safety of 5. Collaborate with policy-makers. lives. 6. Encourage new research. In the U.S. the state of California 7. Disseminate current research. has joined New York, Connecti8. Revise AAA driver manuals. cut, New Jersey, and Washington 9. Encourage corporations to educate their employees. in banning hand-held cell phones while driving.

AAA traffic safety recommendations:

Eating breakfast can help with losing weight in different ways. “Your body needs that fuel. You’re already dehydrated when waking up in the morning. You need to refuel” Sembly said. In the morning, due to not eating for five to eight hours, the body tends to go into a famine mode if breakfast is not eaten. This means that the body holds onto its fat in order to survive, instead of using eaten food as nutrients, while burning its fat at the same time, Sembly stated. Each day, choices are given and decisions are made as to what the body will eat, drink and then digest. “Your body needs quality fuel to give quality results. Everything you eat has an effect on your body positively or negatively,” Sembly said. Additional information found on www.whfoods.com and www.essortment.com

Mexican drug war leads to death Miranda Panik Designer

Deaths are escalating because of The Mexican Drug War. Cancun is a popular spot for spring breakers and young couples alike. In the wake of an escalating drug war, the spot is known for its gang violence. Since the 2006 election of Mexico’s president, Felipe Calderon, the fatalities have reached record levels. The surge of violence has resulted in over 5, 400 deaths last year alone. According to Monte Alejandro Rubido Garcia, executive secretary for the National System for Public Safety, “Mexico all of a sudden stopped being a drug-transit country and became a drug-consuming country.” This means that gangs that were once shipping their drugs in the United States are now fighting each other to sell them in their own communities. The fights become centered on territory, which has led to the escalating death count. The heightened violence has also been a result of President Felipe Calderon’s efforts to stop drug cartels. His administration has spent more money on the efforts and have confiscated more drugs than any previous president.

Mexican officials did not expect the amount of violence that would be brought on by the drug cartels. Rubido said, “Much of the violence is carried out in “high-impact” fashion, aiming to get attention and demoralize the cartels’ enemies. For example, decapitations have become common. But decapitation often is not the cause of death. They’re first killed with a shot, and then decapitated for maximum visual impact,” the law enforcement official said. “They’re trying to make the state go into reverse.” The battle against drugs has been a tough fight throughout the country, especially since the amount of cocaine use has doubled in the past four years. The amount of fear and money that comes along with the drug trading industry has left no institution unaffected. Even corrupt cops have been found guilty of aiding the trafficker’s efforts to distribute drugs. Former house speaker Newt Gingrich has called the situation in Mexico a “civil war.” Though analysts say Mexico is on its way to setting another death record this year, officials see the government prevailing through the violence. “I have a firm conviction that it’s a battle we will win,” said Rubido.

8 THE AGORA

A&E

Should I read Patterson? This master of phonetics is definitely worth your time

Marcus Akers

Designer

Copy Editor

Audio books In this busy world, there is hardly any time for reading. Because I couldn’t go without reading, I think I have found the solution. Audio books allow you legally to read while you’re driving. Best of all, they make Patterson even more thrilling. The narrator of his first book had a dark and sinister voice, which he automatically switched on for the murderer. In addition, creepy cadences are intermixed to signify the beginning and ending of each chapter. In this busy day and age, audio books are definitely a must. (They can’t be any more distracting than the radio.)

“PHILLIP CAMPBELL had imagined this moment, this exquisite scene, so many times. He knew it would be the groom who opened the door. He stepped into the room.” “For the man who has everything,” Campbell said. He pushed his way into the room and slammed the door shut with a swift kick. He spun David Brandt around, shoved his back against the door, and powered the blade in deeper.”

Staff

With the summer nearly in full swing with warm breezy sunny days, there is only one main thing to look forward to. This year, Michigan will be hosting two high voltage rock festivals. Mayhem Festival: This year, on Sunday August 7, The DTE Energy Center will be hosting the Rockstar Energy Drink Mayhem Festival. If you are into the Metal scene you will not be disappointed by attending this festival. Some bands expected to perform this year are the likes of Marilyn Manson, Killswitch Engage, Bullet for My Valentine, Slayer and Mushroomhead. The schedule is done so you can see most of the main bands throughout the day without missing any of them. There will be several stages set up throughout the parking lots and grounds. The main events will be held on the main stage throughout the festival.

Gorillas on flying carpets, talking planets, and more await those who are prepared to journey through time and space late Sunday night on Adult Swim. The Mighty Boosh, an outrageous comedy troupe from England, has landed on our shores. Occupying the 1 a.m. Monday morning “death slot” on Cartoon Networks’ Adult Swim, the Boosh is right where it needs to be, for the only thing more obscure than its scheduled time is the humor it provides. Rife with cockney slang, performed on a colorful set, and produced on a shoestring budget, the show appeals on a number of levels. It features a uniquely British blend of slap-stick, and the driest punch-lines since Are You Being Served. While at times over-the-top, it is understandably so. Cast in a fictional version of modern day Shoreditch, England, the Mighty Boosh are employed by Naboo the Enigma- a powerful, if drug addled shaman, in his boutique shop. The Mighty Boosh is the electronew-wave-glam-punk-synth band that the two main characters are in. Howard Moon, general plonker and responsible shopkeeper, plays the straight man to his ever-evolving and critically fashion-conscious band-mate, Vince Noir. The merry-go-round of strangeness that is the recurring supporting cast really help the show shine.

Editor-in-Chief

that it introduced me to James Patterson. Now when I see “Along Came

the Spider,” I know that the book is more than just about spiders. If I know Patterson, the “spider” is

probably a serial killing menace. Instead of boring me, this novel, like his others, will thrill.

The first band will take the stage at 2:15. Tickets are on sale now. However, if metal is not your thing or you just want more, there is still another option pending. Warped Tour: On July 31 Comerica Park will hold the Vans Warped Tour. Warped Tour will be hosting a variety of rock bands at this year’s festivals with everything from punk to grunge to metal. This is not a festival that rock lovers will want to miss. Artists performing this year are A Day to Remember, Alexisonfire, Chiodos, Underoath, Senses Fail and Escape the Fate along with many more. Over fifty bands are expected to perform this year at Warped Tour. If you are more about variety with your rock, then this is for you. Either way you go with these two events, you will get what you are looking for. These are two of the largest tours of the summer in the Photo courtesy of www.last.fm/user/emogi nation. Do not miss your chance to Lead Singer and guitarist Michael “Padge” Paget shredding on his guitar. see them for yourself.

There’s the lone American Bob fossil the un-ethical zookeeper, and Tony Harrison the disembodied squid headed Shaman. Bolo the gorilla, Naboo’s spirit familiar and fellow pothead is often times required to regulate for the group, even though he’s asthmatic. Then there’s the evil, nearly indestructible Victorian-cockney fiend, the Hitcher, with his otherworldly command of eels, and many more, both good and sinister. The Adult Swim network has picked up at the third season of the BBC 3 program, so a few gags may go unrecognized to the many viewers who are experiencing The Mighty Boosh for the first time. The cast support the program overseas with a well-received live stage presentation, which will also visit the United States on a brief forthcoming tour. Every show features a new and different musical number, which vary widely in style, but usually involve “crimping”- a nonsensical freestyle rap that the duo are famous for. One hilarious episode pits the Boosh against their fraudulent doppelgangers, “The Flighty Zeus” in a crimp-off. Although edited for the rough language so commonplace in the U.K., the Mighty Boosh is sure to appeal to fans of British humor. The show charms by its ambitious use of low budget special effects, keen dialogues, and the sheer earnestness with which the characters deal with the ridiculous situations they encounter.

Ghost of Girlfriends Past

Emily Chandonnet

Mayhem vs. Warped

Jeremy Hickey

British comedy finds its corner Cartoon Networks’ Adult Swim occupies fans

Resa Waldecker

If you are like me, you probably spend a lot of time at the bookstore. Chances are you have seen a James Patterson title just about every time. Those 7-by-11 paperbacks seem to be everywhere. And after a while of seeing the same novel, something in me becomes sick of that book. After seeing the spider from, “Along Came a Spider,” I already know what that book is about. It is about spiders, and I do not like spiders. Why would I want to read the book? You can imagine then, how difficult it was for me to finally give in to James Patterson. But people like me also know that if you have a 40 percent off coupon for Waldenbooks, you have to use it. Chances are this will not only be an easy task, but like Christmas. It was on one of those rare occasions that I could not find anything. So I decided to take my chance with the James Patterson series “The Woman’s Murder Club.” And just to mix it up, I decided to grab an audio book. I had to drive to Bedford anyway, so maybe this will keep me occupied. Two things happened that fateful day: I fell in love with audio books and I became infatuated with James Patterson. Patterson’s style of writing is unlike anything I have read. Instead of long winded detail, he uses short and straight to the point sentences. He also masterfully twists each chapter to end on a climax. To add suspense, Patterson switches point of view every chapter—even daring enough to venture into the mind of the psychopathic killers. Needless to say, I quickly fell in love with “The Woman’s Murder Club.” Every book revolves around the hardcore, no nonsense Lieutenant Lindsay Boxer. In the first book, “First to Die,” Boxer is put in the middle of a serial murder. The victims: honeymooners on their wedding night. Lindsey becomes friends with characters who all band their skills together and become “The Women’s Murder Club.” At its prime, this group will be made of a D.A., a medical examiner, an attorney, and a reporter. During the day, Lieutenant Boxer does the dirty work, but at night the group comes together to drink martini’s and piece together the cases. I do admit that the first novel made me shudder. It is definitely the most gruesome of the bunch. But just when I think Patterson can not get anymore thrilling, another book comes out. So far the series goes to eight. Even though I could rattle off how many things “The Woman’s Murder Club” has influenced, the series’ biggest accomplishment is

May 5, 2009

Pretty much a romantic knock off of A Christmas Carol, but with a Matthew McConaughey sexy comedy spin. Ghosts of Girlfriends Past was entertaining and sent a good message, but the last clip was killed by the unneeded and terrible last scene. McConaughey plays Conner Mead, a rich fashion photographer who lives to be a player just like his uncle. But his one love, Jenny Perotti, played by Jennifer Garner, keeps him from being a complete

player by calling him out on all his crap and not letting him pull the typical moves on her. Conner is the Best Man for his kid brother Paul Mead, played by Breckin Meyer, but Connor could be the reason the wedding gets called off. After making a cynical toss about how love does not exist, his dead uncle comes to warn him of the three ghosts that will visit him that night. Between destroying the wedding cake, sharing secrets that send the bride and groom into a feud and telling Jenny she is the one for him, Connor is visited by the ghost of past, played by Emma Stone; ghost of present, played by Noureen DeWulf; and ghost of future, played by Olga Maliouk. The ghosts show him his life and each part is marked by Jenny, the love he lost by following in his uncle’s footsteps. Even though the ending couldn’t be more obvious, it should have ended with Jenny saying, “He’s not as dumb as he looks, folks.” But they just needed to add in one last stupid scene, one that shouldn’t have even made it in the deleted scene section on the DVD. This movie is definitely a must see. You’ll laugh while wondering what your three ghosts would show you.

Blink 182’s 4-year comeback Miranda Panik Designer

After more than a four-year hiatus, Blink 182 announced at this year’s Grammy’s that they would be making a comeback. In the past, the band has sold over 12.8 million copies of its four studio albums, and they’ve had ten top ten hits on Billboards Modern Rock Chart. After rumors surfaced about the band’s status, Blink 182 offered a statement to the media. “To put it simply, we’re back. We mean, really back. Picking up where we left off and then some. In the studio writing and recording a new album. Preparing to tour the world yet again. Friendships reformed. Seventeen years deep in our legacy.” As for their reasoning for reuniting, drummer Travis Barker said it simply: “We used to play music togeth-

er, and we decided we’re going to play music together again.” The band has been in the studio working on a new album. They are also preparing for another world tour. Though no national dates have been set yet, there are rumors that Blink 182 will open up for Green Day on their upcoming summer tour. Buzznet has also reported that Blink 182 and Weezer will also be hitting the road together. Also, on April 24, Mark Hoppus revealed details to MTV on their new music video. “It’s definitely not what it seems to be. It’s not really a music video shoot, and it’s not really a movie shoot,” he wrote. “It’s something that no other band has done, and the technology behind it is ridiculous. I don’t even know how to explain it.” Whatever is next to come for the band, their fans are sure to stand behind them and support their music.

May 5, 2009

Sports

Lions meow in the draft: Is there a fresh start after a curse?

At last, now that the hype of the draft has passed, I decided to sit down and review the mind frame of a Mayhew. General Manager Martin Mayhew and Head Coach Jim Schwartz persistently insisted they would draft for value and not need. And they unquestionably made good on that promise, like it or not. Friday morning Lion’s fans awoke to the delightful news that their beloved had just guaranteed the most money to their number one pick. Matthew Stafford awoke to a $41.7 million pay raise. What makes this idea preposterous is the earlier draft spoiler LB Aaron Curry said he would sign for $30 million. And we know that our defense is a faction that is in need of immediate attention. Ironically, Matthew Stafford may be the answer to the Bobby Layne curse after all. This is the first year following the 50-year claim. And if you’re superstitious, Matthew Stafford is a graduate of Highland Park High Hchool. And why would that matter? Bobby Layne graduated from the same high school. Another astonishing

Michael Crossman Assistant Copy Editor

figure, the Lions have only been to the playoffs nine times in those 50 years. Matthew Stafford is going to be sporting the number 9 on his $40 million jersey. So I can get over the pick as far as talent and making a face for your franchise, but my eyes were lazy until the 20th pick came around. The Lions were then on my official clock. When it flashed on the screen and the Commissioner approached the podium, I kept questioning myself as a fan why I had the feeling

they were going to make a huge mistake. And with the 20th pick, they selected the tight end, from Oklahoma St, Brandon Pettigrew. Granted he is a dual threat with his catching and blocking abilities, but the offense was addressed with both early round picks. I am confident in saying I feel I wasn’t the only one who was furious over this. I am not confident in the fact that I am willing to state that I am going to defend the draft choices they selected. The Lions did exactly what they stated they were going to do. Fans need to look beyond the positions they selected and realize this is the first time in years they did what they said they were going to do. Even selecting Louis Delmas, safety from Western Michigan, first in the second round gains my approval. Many would argue for Maualuga, USC linebacker, dangling in front of the Lions face. Obviously the Lions were well aware of the same thing the rest were when he slipped to 38th overall, so maybe they were on their toes. And addressing the safety po-

sition was a need, just not the defensive move fans were expecting. Surprisingly Delmas was ranked number one for his position. The scouting report amplifies the expectations extremely. Delmas is said to be very tough and physical, delivers the big hit, good hand skills and a great leader. Eventually they addressed other highly desperate positions. The notables were DT Sammie Hill from Stillman, who recorded 7.5 sacks from 59 total tackles and OLB DeAndre Levy, who is rated high as far as his skills but is going to be fulfilling a different position coming from the inside from the outside. Overall my final grade isn’t an A, or even comes close, but they impressed me with the fact that it was a clear consensus from top to bottom all through the selection process. They displayed confidence and integrity within the entire weekend. Whether Stafford is our relief from this horrible curse, or a highly paid bust, it all accounts for 15 more breathtaking Sundays in Detroit.

East vs. West or Kobe vs. Lebron? Jeremy Hickey Staff

With the playoffs dwindling down, the two superstars of the NBA. are ripping through the playoffs. Kobe Bryant and LeBron James led there respected teams to the top two records in the regular season, earning number one seeds for each. Since Michael Jordan retired as “the greatest player ever,” both James and Bryant have both been compared to him. LeBron leads Kobe in most statistical categories. Points per game, edge goes to LeBron 30.8 to 28.1. Rebounds to LeBron by an average of 8.1 to 6.1. LeBron wins in assists as well 7.4 to 5.3 per game. True, LeBron does win most statistical categories, but does that make him a better player? “LeBron is very talented, but I think I would still build my team around Kobe because he makes the players around him better as well” Dustin Walling, MCCC student, said. Head to head, Bryant’s Lakers leads LeBron’s Cavaliers two games to none in the regular season. LeBron did score more than Kobe in both games. But what do

Two superstars stand next to each other in the clutch in the Staples Center in Los Angeles. Photo Courtesy of thefearofcomplacency.files.wordpress.com

the statistics mean if you cannot record a win. “If the two do meet in the finals, it will be the Lakers winning it all because of Kobe’s playoff experience” he said. Kobe does seem to have a stronger supporting cast with Andrew Bynum, Pau Gasol, Lamar Odom,

and Jordan Farmar. But what makes them a better supporting cast then James’ cast? Some would argue fortune, some would argue their leader. Since Kobe has proven time and time again, since his wings where clipped from Shaq that he can still lead a team. LeBron has never had a sidekick or “mentor” like Kobe From left, back row: MCCC student, MacJohn Thom, soccer club president, and Fitness Activities Director Vladimir Vjatschslav

had. LeBron has single handedly turned one of the sorriest franchises in the N.B.A. into a power house that only lost two home games all season, one of them being to the Kobe’s Lakers. We may not know now who the better player of the two superstars really is, but time will almost certainly tell us.

THE AGORA

9

Wings Rant Detroit dominates Columbus

Call it an execution. Although there was initially some concern on the part of Detroit Red Wings fans, the first round of the Stanley Cup Playoffs came and went, and the Wings made it look easy. Well, that is if you don’t count the last game in Columbus. That was the only game that was even close. With all the ups and downs this seasons, real Detroit hockey fans stayed true, and were rewarded for their patience. Chris Osgood—the wily old Detroit goal tender who has been with the team seemingly forever—was finally selected by Coach Mike Babcock just before the regular season ended to be in the net once again for the playoffs. Detroit hockey fans as well as the coaching staff had been waiting all season for either Osgood or “backup” goalie Ty Conklin to step up and be the dominant force on the team. Unfortunately, Osgood had his worst ever season before the playoffs began. His save percentage was just .887 and average goals allowed were 3.09, compared to Conklin’s 2.51 and .909 save percentage. So when the regular season ended, and No. 2 seed Detroit was matched up with the No.7 Columbus Bluejackets, many wondered what Babcock was thinking. Columbus forward Rick Nash got a hat trick against Detroit during the regular season, the Wings were throttled 8-2 against the Jackets at one point, and their discouraging 3-2-1 record against Columbus seemed reason to be alarmed. But Osgood and the Wings proved this was a complete mismatch. The Jackets were never even close in this series, as the Red Wings swept Columbus in the first round, 4-0. Columbus could never skate with the Wings, generated little offense, and they showed just how reliant they were on Nash and rookie goal tender Steve Mason. On the other hand, Osgood looked as good as any point in his career, especially making key saves in the first period of game

Casey Cheap

Copy Editor-in-Chief one, a period where the Jackets had a man advantage for most of the 20 minutes. The Wings took game one, 4-1. More importantly, Osgood proved a lot of his critics from the regular season wrong. He went on to shut out the Jackets in game two, 4-0, and was just as steady in game three, winning 4-1. He stopped 76 of 78 shots faced in the first three games. His save percentage in the playoffs is .936 while allowing an average of 1.75 goals in the first four games of the playoffs. Although it was all Detroit in the first three games, Columbus finally retaliated in game four, taking better advantage of chances and power plays. Osgood didn’t show the same tenacity, blowing a pair of two-goal leads in the second and third periods. So with the game tied at 5-5, Johan Franzen decided to take advantage of a gift by teammate Jiri Hudler. Although Hudler’s backhander was stopped by Mason right in front of the net, with just 46 seconds to go, and elimination on the line for Columbus, Franzen decided it was time to end this thing. “He made the goal happen,” Franzen told The Detroit News. “I just picked up what he left for me.” Franzen got the winning goal for Detroit, taking the game 6-5. In winning round one, the Wings are the first defending Stanley Cup Champions to even get out of the first round of the playoffs since 2002. The Wings will face the Anaheim Ducks in the second round, and the Vancouver Canucks will face the Chicago Black Hawks in the Western Conference.

Roar of ‘84 celebrates Tigers last champions

Alan McKee Staff

From left, front row: MCCC students Amy Terrasi, Elizabeth Terrasi, volleyball club president, and Brett Newcomer.

Sports

Continued from page 1 The other board members supported Bacarella’s arrangement with the students by matching his pledge to The Foundation. As the idea was discussed, the noise level rose in the room. “Up to $2,000,” a board member said excitedly as the other members agreed to contribute. William Terrasi, who was named the MCCC alumnus of the year, said that he would give $500 to The Foundation as well. He is also Amy and Elizabeth’s father. The students and Vjatschslav told the board that sports clubs bring people into the school, give students an outlet, help with students’ social lives, and bring the community together. Thom said he plays on soccer teams in Taylor and Canton, but it is inconvenient because he lives much closer to MCCC. According to him, there are other MCCC students who play on various teams. “A majority of them go to this college,” he said. These students pay a fee of $900 to $950 to play soccer on teams outside of the college and the county, Thom said. Elizabeth Terrasi explained that

several girls signed up to be a part of the volleyball club at MCCC when it started, but the number of girls on the team got lower and lower as time went on. “They sensed a lack of support,” she said. Elizabeth also said that it was difficult to keep the other students motivated because it was all ran by students. Board member Joseph Bellino agreed that students are looking for more leadership. “Students don’t want to listen to students. They want a coach,” he said. Elizabeth Terrasi just graduated from the college, but she is still working to help the sports clubs. “I appreciate her taking the time to do this, because she’s not going to benefit from it at all,” Board member Linda Lauer said. According to Vjatschslav, the students are working to start the survey as soon as possible. They will continue the survey in the next semester, so more students can register and vote. “The students have been with Barry Kinsey and had a discussion about what to put in the survey,” Vjatschslav said. Barry Kinsey is the director of workforce development. He presented the results of a survey,

Graduate Follow-Up Report for 2007-2008, at the board meeting and offered to help the students with their survey. They want to do an online survey of every student enrolled at the college, Vjatschslav said. “They are also going to be putting up posters informing students to go to the web site and register their vote. They will of course use every media possible to get the message across that the survey is of the utmost importance to the clubs and students that are here now and those that will be looking to come to MCCC for their degrees,” he said. Vjatschslav expressed his gratitude toward the students for speaking at the meeting. “I wish to say thank you to the four students that were wonderful in their argument for the help needed for their respective clubs and for their work on behalf of other clubs in the college and those that will come later on,” he said. Vjatschslav and the students also expressed their appreciation for their chance to speak at the board meeting. “I wish to extend a deep felt thank you to all the board members, on behalf of the students of the clubs and myself, for allowing us to take up there valuable time,” Vjatschslav said.

Something happened in 1984 that stunned the world. It was not an alien invasion or world ending phenomena. The Detroit Tigers streaked to a 35-5 record, and became recognized as one of the greatest teams in the history of Major League Baseball. In 2009, that amazing team from 25 years ago is once again being brought together this summer. On September 28, of this year Comerica Park, along with WWJ-950 will be hosting a reunion for the 1984 Tigers, with the first 10,000 fans to attend that day receiving a 1984 Detroit Tigers replica road team jersey. Throughout the regular season there will be several special events celebrating the 1984 Tigers. With all this excitement going on, here’s something MCCC Graduates may want to consider this summer. During days off, from your new jobs, or perhaps those who are transferring to other colleges in the region, a trip to Comerica Park to see a Detroit Tiger Baseball game just may be the ticket. Following a West coast trip through Seattle, Los Angeles and Kansas City, The Tigers returned home with a 10-8 record, holding a one-game lead over the Chicago White Sox and Kansas City. With a seven-game home stand beginning this week against a struggling New York Yankee team, a couple of two-game sets versus division rivals the Cleveland Indians and Minnesota Twins, the Tigers are in an excellent position to distance themselves from the rest of the pack. A bit of momentum always helps when going on the road.

Tigers fans will be celebrating the 1984 team’s 25th anniversary during a variety of events this summer.

With an eight-game road trip against the White Sox, Indians and Twins, the Tigers may find themselves, once again becoming the talk of the town. Throughout the regular season, the Detroit Tigers have promotional events during their home games. Friday and Saturday night games will be followed by fireworks. The 15th Annual Negro Leagues Tribute Game is scheduled for Saturday, July 11 against the Cleveland Indians, and the first 10,000 fans

receive a Detroit Stars Commemorative cap. If you decide to go to a Detroit Tiger game, check out these prices. Tickets range from as high as $77 each to an amazingly low $5! When you attend a ball game, don’t forget to vote your favorite Tiger players onto the American League all-star team! If you can’t make it to Comerica Park this season all-star voting is available on-line. Just log-on to detroit.tigers.mlg.com

10 THE AGORA

Spotlight

May 5, 2009

Moving on and growing up Asia Rapai Copy Editor

Don’t let your accomplishments mask your personality. This is how Matthew Dotson has viewed college and life. It’s not about what you have accomplished; it’s about the way you live. Dotson graduated from MCCC this semester and would like his fellow students to understand that college isn’t just about stressing over homework. “No matter how smart you are, if no one likes you, you’re not going to be successful,” Dotson said. “Don’t worry so much about it; don’t get caught up in your homework.” He remains laid back because he has a sense of humor and creativity. The people around him also help him remain imaginative. “I haven’t grown up; I’m still childish,” Dotson said. “My friends are all creative.” Although he became an Eagle Scout when he was 15, has ran the Detroit half marathon twice, and has played percussion for two years in the college/community sympho-

ny band, Dotson said his life is just starting. “I feel like it just began, I feel like I’m starting to grow into my personality now. It was two sizes too big, like the Grinch’s heart,” he said. Dotson is creative in multiple ways. He said he enjoys music, musicals, writing and art. These are all interests that make his personality what it is. “I have played guitar for six years. I play piano and bass too,” Dotson said. He also has a band with his friend James Holdren, an MCCC student, but they are looking for a drummer. “We thought that music today was not that good, so we were gonna’ revive it,” he said. They want to call their band The Revival, and Dotson has high hopes for his hobby of music. “I’m gonna’ be a rock star in like three years,” he said jokingly. Dotson leaves MCCC with an Associate of Science Degree, and plans to commute to Eastern Michigan University in the fall.

Initially he wanted to go into electronics, because he said it was more lucrative. Then he thought about what was more important to him and what he would actually enjoy. He has now decided to major in professional writing and is interested in creative writing. “It would be cool to write for a magazine like Maxim or a guitar magazine,” he said. While a student at MCCC, Dotson was awarded the Band Scholarship. This helped him pay for the expenses of college. Dotson has also supported himself by working part time. He wants to continue to make money by supporting himself as much as he can. Dotson has been working at Tiffany’s Pizza for three months and hopes to continue to work while attending EMU. “I do make the dough,” he said (pun intended). These are some of the experiences he has had, but Dotson feels like these accomplishments are not what make him who he is. There are many other qualities of life that

Dotson enjoys outside of getting an education to make money. “Laughing is my favorite thing to do,” he said. “Laughing is the purest form of enjoyment.” In leaving MCCC, Dotson said he will miss hanging out in the Cellar and will try to continue his multiple friendships made at the college. Although he joked about how much he will miss his friends once he is attending EMU. “I will make new friends and then forget about them,” he said humorously. Jeremy Lund, a friend that Dotson has made at MCCC, commented on Dotson’s personality. “Matt is a great guy because everything he says is funny,” Jeremy said. “He is so smart that people just don’t even get his dry sense of humor sometimes.” In graduating and moving on from MCCC, Dotson said that he is glad he did not stress over grades and homework. Instead he said he has enjoyed learning about his own personality through his friends and interests.

After two years at MCCC, student Matthew Dotson is graduating and moving on to Eastern Michigan University. Agora Photo by Asia Rapai

Student Government Corner

Next meeting: Will resume in the fall Want to get involved on campus? Join Student Government

All meetings: - Open to the public - Every 1st and 3rd Tues. - Located in the Cellar - From 12:30-1:30 p.m.

FREE STUDENT ADVERTISING! Need to sell your books, looking for a roommate, or want to teach music lessons but don’t know how to get the word out? Send your Ad to agora@monroecc. or drop it off at room L 202. You can design it or we can. Just give us the info and we will put it in our next issue. Ads for April 16 issue should be sent in by April 6. Questions? Call 384-4186 or email us at agora@monroeccc.edu

Questions? Ask.. Adviser Tom Ryder (734) 384-4201 tryder@monroeccc.edu

Need a roommate? Carolyn Morrow, a student at EMU, is looking for a responsible student to share her 2 bedroom apartment in downtown Monroe. If you are interested, feel free to call her at 231394-1872, or e-mail her at misscarol5@hotmail.com