April 3, 2013

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Aug. 2010Vol. Vol. 55, Issue April 26, 3, 2013 56, Issue 17 1

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Students talk about armed guards on campus - Pg. 3

Students sometimes struggle to get enough sleep.

- Pg. 5

MCCC’s math redesign stirs debate Melanie Jacobs-Davis Agora staff

The overhaul of the math program has MCCC’s campus abuzz, leaving many with mixed reviews of the redesign.

While the college cites increased success rates, some students have expressed concerns for the fees, the workload, and the independent learning style that is required.

With the redesign, tuition for developmental courses – Math 090, 092 or college-level Math 151 — was $310.

The fee covers the cost for the college to purchase a “package” from Pearson, the publisher, said Vinnie Maltese, dean of the mathematics division.

A “package” is what the college provides each student on the first day of class. It includes a netbook computer, the MyMathLab access code, and the workbook, he said.

“The college’s package price from Pearson this semester was $310.82 per student, not including shipping,” Maltese said.

Students pay the same lab fee each time to help the college absorb some of the additional cost, he said.

“I don’t understand why I’m being charged the exact same price for Math 151 as I did for 092,” Environmental Science major Jennifer Dayvolt said. “I’m not getting another computer. I’m not getting another book, so why am I paying that much?”

The amount the college pays overall, Maltese said, adds up to more than the cost for each student.

“If you have a student who

Photo by Melanie Jacobs-Davis

Math professor Jim Vallade sits at the front of the class while students work on their netbooks.

is paying the fee a second time, it averages out so the college doesn’t lose money,” he said.

The college uses that money to pay for training of the faculty, training of adjuncts, extra netbooks, extra outlets in the classrooms, and so on, he said.

Other costs to the college include upgrades for the wireless connectivity, hardware and software, Maltese said.

“That’s how we keep the fee as low as we do,” he said.

Vice President of Instruction Grace Yackee said few students

come to her with concerns about the costs unless they already have a computer.

“They wanted to know why they needed another computer,” she said. “Well, they don’t, but part of the math redesign is a lock-

step.”

When a student is provided a notebook for the course on that first day, then all the tools are provided to them, Yackee said.

“All courses you implement this, all courses you distribute a

“This method is called a ‘flip classroom.’ It’s where the student guides the learning process.”

Grace Yackee

Vice President of Instruction

computer, all courses cannot diverge from the model,” Yackee said. “Because then, you can’t use the research to say it works.”

The demands of the redesign are high, especially in comparison to the “chalk-and-talk” method that was taught for many years prior to the redesign, Yackee said.

The new method requires an extensive amount of time devoted to the material, she added.

“This method is called a “flip classroom,” Yackee said. “It’s where the student guides the learning process.”

She said the very first semester of the redesign was winter 2012, and the number of students who received an A or a B was 61 percent.

“You have to have mastery to pass; that’s receiving an A or B,” Yackee said. “The mastery and independent learning are actually what sold us, and obviously the success rates.”

Dayvolt took Math 092 in the fall of 2012 and enrolled in Math 151 in winter 2013 because she has to have Math 151 in order to graduate.

She began the winter 2013 semester registered for math 151.

Her other classes include business math, advanced psychology, and environmental science; all of which are rigorous courses, she said. She said she was very displeased with the method of instruction.

“I don’t like any of it online,” she said. “I like someone teaching me; actually telling me how to do the math.”

Dayvolt said she already had an idea of how time-consuming math was from her experience in math 092, but as for her other classes, she had no idea. The compilation of all of her classes is what proved to be impossible, she said.

Dayvolt had to drop the course.

The math redesign is so much more meticulous in comparison to the “chalk-and-talk” lectures of the past, she said. Students are unaware of this and are not able to take that into consideration when registering for their other classes, she said.

“It would have saved me a lot

Continued on Page 3

MCCC hosts ‘One Amazing Thing’ Julia Wells Agora Staff

Photo by Tim Green

Chitra Divakaruni reads a section from her book, “One Amazing Thing.”

Participants have come together to celebrate diversity and community through literature in the One Book One Community event.

On March 27, audiences got a chance to listen to the author’s point of view on Meet The Author night at the La-Z-Boy center.

Readers also gathered throughout the month to discuss the book during other events sponsored by OBOC. Readers listened as Chitra Divakaruni spoke about her inspiration for One Amazing Thing and read excerpts from her new book, Oleander Girl.

The turnout was more than expected as about 300 members of the community participated in a Q&A with the author.

Divakaruni charmed the audience; when asked by an audience member if she was in any of the characters, she jokingly replied, “Which one do you like the best?”

She also personally talked to The Agora about her own life experiences that helped shape the novel.

“I came up with the story on a dangerous day when we were being evacuated from Houston due to an approaching hurricane,” she said.

“It made me realize how people panic and turn on each other in life threatening situations and made me wonder if there was a way to create community under such circumstances.”

She believes that the OBOC is a wonderful idea and said she is happy and honored that an entire county is reading her book.

“It makes all of the hard work of writing a book, worthwhile.”

The main theme of the kick-off event was multiculturalism, which is often incorporated into her books.

“We live in a multicultural world. That is our strength, if we can embrace it,” she said.

Divakaruni said she will usually write early in the morning, after her meditation, for about three or four hours.

“The meditation clears my head,” she told the audience.

English professor William McCloskey, who attended a Meet the Author event, had great things to say.

“I liked this kind of event,” he said.

“First of all I think it’s important that the college continues to bring in authors of note for the students and community.

“The fact that she was able to meet with students was wonderful. I thought she was very nice and friendly and very open.”

He also said these types of events are important to get the students and community involved.

Students also got involved April 2 at a panel discussion with media experts, including Brent Snavely, a reporter for the Detroit Free Press and Toledo Channel 13 TV reporter Rebecca Regnier.

They were part of a panel on “Telling Amazing Stories” that also included Dr. Paul Hedeen, dean of the Humanities/Sociall Sciences Division and a published author.

OBOC will come to a close with a lavish Indian and Asian buffet put on by the culinary students of MCCC. The event is on April 12 and will require reservations as well as tickets, which cost $20.

Kickoff event, Page 6

DTE donates $1 million for Career Tech Center Melanie Jacobs-Davis Agora staff

MCCC received a $1 million contribution from the DTE Energy Foundation for the new Career Technology Center.

The $1 million donation is to support the college’s capital campaign for the new facility.

Ron May, DTE senior vice president of Major Enterprise Projects, made the announcement at a luncheon hosted by MCCC on Friday, March 8.

“We are happy today, and are proud to announce, that the DTE Energy Foundation is donating $1million to support the capital campaign,” May said.

“We are also partnering to bring a Fermi 1 exhibit here, as a part of our Fermi 3 licensing efforts, and our Fermi 3 team couldn’t think of a better place to house that exhibit long-term but right here.”

Inside:

He added that Monroe County is home to two of DTE’s largest electric generating plants, the Fermi 2 Nuclear Power Plant and the Monroe Power Plant.

Monroe County Community College and DTE Energy have a longstanding, close relationship that has greatly benefited the citizens of Monroe County, May said. DTE is pleased to join MCCC as a key partner in this facility, which will play such a vital role in future of our citizens, our students, our businesses and industries, and our community at large, he said.

“DTE Energy and MCCC have partnered on a number of issues, so this is a culmination of some of that wide-ranging relationship we’ve had,” he said.

DTE Energy made a $45,000 grant, along with an in-kind donation of solar equipment, in 2010. In addition, DTE also constructed a 500-killowat SolarCurrents system at MCCC in 2011, in sup-

Campus News......................2,3 A&E......................................4 Feature...........................5,6 Editorial..............................7 Sports..............................8

port of an alternative/renewable energy program that will be housed at the new Career Technology Center.

MCCC President, Dr. David Nixon said the college received a grant from the state of Michigan that financed half of the $17 million cost of the new Career Technology Center.

The college has funded the other half through existing funds and its capital campaign, which was started in 2011 in preparation for the new CTC building, he added.

“This vital facility will further Monroe County Community College’s capacity to develop and to meet the needs of a globally competitive workforce, greatly benefiting the entire community and beyond,” said MCCC Board Chairman William Bacarella.

“It will serve as an indispensable tool to attract new employers and create future

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jobs by supplying a pool of qualified candidates capable of meeting the needs of evolving industries.”

He added that the DTE Energy Foundation’s grant will further strengthen the community by supporting the college’s initiative to increase diversity.

The $1 million gift is to support the development of the colleges program areas, such as nuclear engineering, welding, construction, electronics, and quality assurance.

Other programs that will be housed in the new building include mechanical engineering/automation, computer-aided drafting/ manufacturing, and automotive engineering/service with an emphasis on hybrid and battery technology.

“The Foundation at MCCC is very excited about the newest gift to our capital campaign, and we send an enthusiastic invitation to all the folks of Monroe

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County and the state of Michigan to become a part of it, said Michael R. Meyer, chair of The Foundation at MCCC. “ This truly is a facility that will enrich, inspire and educate for generations to come.”

The 60,000-square foot, state-of-the-art center is being built to Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Silver Standards and is scheduled to open next fall.

Dr. Nixon also gave thanks to Chef Kevin Thomas and his two-year culinary students for preparing the meal served at the luncheon.

More information on the Career Technology Center at MCCC, including ways to support the new facility, is available at www.monroeccc.edu/ctc.

MB&T also donated, Page 2

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campus news

April 3, 2013

mcccagora.com • The Agora

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Financial gains and financial aid

MCCC Board hears reports on capital campaign and Pell grants

By Katie Mullin Agora Staff

MCCC’s capital campaign received a surprise at the March 25 Board of Trustees meeting.

The capital campaign is a fundraising effort to help pay for the new Career Technology Center.

Douglas Chaffin, President and CEO of Monroe Bank & Trust and chairman of the capital campaign, presented a report to the Board on the CTC building’s outlook.

“It’s a huge resource to our campus,” Chaffin said.

The surprise was unveiled at the end of his presentation when MB&T pledged $50,000 toward the campaign’s goal. Board members and several people from the audience clapped and stood in appreciation.

“You guys are our customers as well,” Chaffin said just before he revealed the award. “We’re absolutely welded at the hip of the college.”

The Foundation at Monroe County Community College has now raised more than 85 percent of its target of $17 million for the CTC center, according to the press release. So far, the college has accumulated $14.59 million for the project.

A breakdown of the funds shows the state contributing $8.5 million, while $4.25 million was given by the college and $1.84 million by individuals and businesses. The college still has yet to raise $2.41 million, according to the report.

Chaffin commended the college for its extensive line of programs.

Approximately 50 percent of MB&T’s employees have either graduated with a degree or taken training courses at MCCC, he said.

Another large donor, DTE Energy, also received recognition at

Photo courtesty of MCCC

From left, MCCC Board of Trustees Vice chairman William Braunlich, Monroe Bank & Trust President and CEO Douglas Chafin, and MCCC President David Nixon celebrate the announcement by Chafin that MB&T is donating $50,000 to the capital campaign for the new Career Technology Center.

the meeting.

DTE energy recently contributed $1 million toward the campaign.

Josh Myers, coordinator of external and development affairs, presented updates on the campaign’s overall progress.

“It was a critical moment for our campaign,” he said.

Myers also showed a promotional video detailing the new building’s features and DTE’s involvement in the project.

Judith Hamburg of concerned citizens of the Whitman Center brought two issues to the board.

Hamburg expressed an “explicit

need” for a director at the Whitman Center.

The former director for the center, Sandy Kosmyna, retired prior to the fall semester.

“No business, high school or college can function without a director,” Hamburg said.

“We need this to happen. You can make this happen,” she said to the board.

Not only is Whitman lacking a leader to handle the affairs of the center, but biology and chemistry classes have also been non-existent, she said.

Alice Dewey, a lifelong learning student who takes classes at Whitman, voiced her concern.

“We would like you to put these on our list of priorities,” she said.

“So don’t forget us when you get into the biology and chemistry area in the future.”

Later in the meeting, Suzanne Wetzel gave an updated report on the CTC building.

“We’re only a few months away from when we’ll actually be moving in,” she said.

Wetzel said the building is on schedule and on budget.

“Everything’s moving along to move into the building soon,” she said.

Valerie Culler, director of Financial Aid, presented a report on “Pell runners or Pell jump-

ers” -- students who are eligible to receive Pell grants and student loans, but drop out of their courses.

The students often do not return to finish their degree, she said.

Instead, they keep the leftover money, which often exceeds their tuition. These individuals then enroll in different colleges to receive more funds.

Culler added that when students are caught committing this act, the community colleges are left to pay back some of those funds to the Department of Education.

“Anytime a student has received federal financial aid and fails to successfully complete

any coursework, the Department of Education requires that the school complete a calculation to determine what percentage of aid the student earned, based on how long the student attended. Any aid that is unearned, the school is responsible for returning to the Department of Education,” she said.

“There has been a lot of media attention about students not completing their coursework,” she said.

There is another side to the argument, however, she said “A student who has to withdraw from all their classes for legitimate reasons because of a serious illness is going to be caught in this figure,” she said.

“You have students who have very legitimate reasons. The Return of Title IV funds calculation has to be completed for any student who does not successfully complete any of the courses in the semester, regardless of the reasons why that happened. A student must complete more than 60 percent of the semester to fully earn their financial aid,” she said.

“We’ve been seeing an increase in the dollar amount of financial aid we administer,” she said.

Factors such as a sluggish economy and more students who are heading back to school add to the uptick in aid, she said.

Culler said that preventative measures have been set in place by the Department of Education.

The procedures identify students who enroll in several schools and receive financial aid.

“We will look at their student loan and Pell Grant history,” she said. “The financial aid office has records where the student received financial aid.”

Culler said that this tracking procedure has been recently set in place by the Department of Education for all institutions.

She emphasized that they are not trying to isolate students, but this policy must be followed through, according to federal regulations.

History added to new CTC building Teachers versus Ph.Ds for college president

Sculpture from Fermi I plant moving to CTC

By Katie Mullin Agora staff

Christine Pettit Agora Staff

MCCC will soon be proudly displaying the statue that is currently waiting at the DTE Rehabilitation site, according to Director of Marketing Joe Verkennes.

Detroit Edison and Dow Chemical were involved with designing the world’s first commercial liquid-metal cooled fast-breeder reactor — the Enrico Fermi Atomic Power Plant (Fermi 1) in 1956.

The nuclear power plant operated from 1963-1966 and 19701972.

It is important to understand that Fermi One was one of the first power reactors of its type that operated safely and proved the feasibility of the fast breeder design on a commercial scale.

“Monroe County Community College and Detroit Edison are developing a historical exhibit regarding the Fermi 1 Nuclear Power Plant,” Verkennes said.

“The exhibit is being paid for by DTE Energy and will be placed in the concourse of the new Career Technology Center.”

While the precise location on campus for the sculpture hasn’t been determined, it will probably be in front of the new CTC building, Verkennes said.

This sculpture will be a part of the historical exhibit on the Fermi Plant. This display, which will cost a total of $70, 000, will be lo-

This is a photo of the sculpture outside the Fermi I nuclear plant, which will be moved to the MCCC cam- pus as part of an exhibit on the world’s first commercial liquid-metal cooled fast-breeder reactor.

cated inside of the CTC building.

The display also is going to include artifacts from the Henry Ford Museum that were from the original Fermi site.

“Included in this exhibit will be a timeline of the history of Fermi 1, a timeline of the history of nuclear energy in the U.S., and a discussion of the importance of Fermi 1 to Monroe, the nuclear

The Agora Editorial Editor Nicki Kostrzewa

Asst. Editor Hannah Boulton

Staff Members

Carla Crockett Lezlee Downing Sasa Gavric Tim Green Jobin Dylan Melanie Jacobs-Davis

Adviser Dan Shaw

William Miko Katie Mullin Christinie Pettit Joshua Rains Angie Souva Julia Wells

power industry and the world,” Verkennes said.

“To supplement text and photos, the exhibit will also include numerous historical artifacts and video vignettes.

Some of the artifacts will be donated by Detroit Edison and some will be loaned from The Henry Ford Museum in Dearborn, Verkennes said.

“Included in this exhibit will be a timeline of the historyof Fermi 1, a timeline of the history of nuclear energy in the U.S. ...

Joe Verkennes MCCC director of Marketing

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 Room 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, 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. E-mail submissions: agora@monroeccc.edu .

The minimum qualifications needed in a new president were put under the microscope at a special Board of Trustees meeting on March 5.

Two issues – whether the president should have a terminal degree and classroom teaching experience – were the focus of the debate during the 30-minute meeting.

At issue was whether the two qualifications for the job should be “highly preferred” or “preferred” as part of the minimum requirements.

The president’s terminal degree was the first specimen to be analyzed. A terminal degree is the highest degree in a field, usually a PhD. “We should try to shrink the pool,” Joe Bellino said, in response to a comment about widening the pool of applicants with doctorate degrees.

The board unanimously decided that a terminal degree would be “preferred” instead of “highly preferred.”

The question of whether the president should have classroom teaching under his/her belt also was debated.

“I want teachers. This is an educational institution,” said board member the former history professor, James DeVries.

“There are a lot of community college presidents who have worked their way up the ranks,” Vice-chairman Bill Braunlich said, also advocating classroom experience.

“I can’t see someone not understanding being an educator.

I really feel that’s a piece of the puzzle,” said board member Mary Kay Thayer.

DeVries added that he would not only like to see a president with a teaching background, but also someone who understands teachers.

The vote on whether teaching experience should be only “preferred” tied on a 3-3 vote. The stalemate was broken by Chairman Bill Bacarella, who voted for “preferred” teaching experience, rather than “highly preferred.”

Bacarella presented an update on the consulting firm the board chose to hire to help with the search – the Association of Community College Trustees.

“Narcisa (Polonio of ACCT) has put together a profile of our college,” he said.

After the meeting, Joe Verkennes, Director of Marketing at the college, said that ACCT had drafted a search announcement and presidential profile.

During the course of the meeting, the Search Committee began to take shape.

“We’ve identified the first five, and seven alternate, stakeholders,” Bacarella said about finding external members of the committee.

DeVries suggested adding at least two other stakeholders to the list, which the board approved.

“I think April is going to be a heavy duty month,” Bacharella said.

The search committee was finalized after the March 25 meeting. The trustees named to the committee are William H Braunlich, board vice chair and Search Committee chair, Linda Lauer and Mary Kay Thayer.

A complete listing is at: http:// www.monroeccc.edu/presidentialsearch/committee.htm MCCC has put together a website dedicated to the search.

Braunlich recommended going on the presidential search site for more information: http://www. monroeccc.edu/presidentialsearch/.

“Go to the website. That’s where the mother lode of information is,” he said.

Advertising for the vacancy has been in full swing with online ads and print publications.

The college set April 12 as the target date for collecting applications.

In the event that there is not a suitable pool of candidates by April, hiring efforts will have to be ramped up, Braunlich said.

He mentioned, however, that ACCT has a busy schedule ahead of them.

“We’re not the only community college on the list,” he said.

features

February 4, 2012

mcccagora.com • The Agora

Armed guards ‘shoot off’ a debate William Miko Agora Staff

The debate over armed guards in schools has been inescapable since the mass shooting at Sandy Hook Elementary.

Since 1996, there have been 54 shootings in America that have been considered mass school shootings, which is an average of three per year.

The most devastating were the shootings at Columbine High school in 1996, Virginia Tech University in 2007, and Sandy Hook Elementary just last year.

The incidents at Virginia Tech and Columbine were two of the worst school shootings in our country’s history, and there was armed security present when the shootings took place.

Bill Myers is the Chief of Security at MCCC. He worked in the Sheriff’s department before taking the job at MCCC ten years ago.

“Everyone on my staff was a certified police officer at one time,” Myers said.

Myers went on to say that all of his security officers are armed, and it is not mandatory.

“This is new within the last couple years, and is in direct response to school shootings in America,” Myers said.

Over the past few years, Myers has worked with the MCCC administration to make preparations in case of a school shooting on campus.

“The only thing that stops a bad guy with a gun is a good guy with a gun.”

Wayne LaPierre NRA Vice President Myers and other security officers have worked on a simulated school shooting with Michigan State Police’s SWAT team.

They have activated the ALERT program to inform students if a shooting occurs, and as recently as last month had a meeting with the Monroe Sheriff’s department response team.

“Communication is key, from students to security to administration. If something is going on, we need to know about it,” Myers said.

Heading the pro-gun side of the argument is the National Rifle Association, (NRA) and its executive vice president, Wayne LaPierre.

LaPierre has been calling for armed guards in schools since President Barack Obama made it clear that he thinks America needs more gun control.

“The only thing that stops a bad guy with a gun is a good guy with a gun,” LaPierre said.

Since 1997, the federal government and states have been taking measures to stop these random acts of violence.

Schools have introduced zero tolerance policies on threats, hot line phone numbers for students, and anti-bullying campaigns, and labeled schools as “gun-free zones.”

“Politicians pass laws for gunfree school zones, and in doing so, they tell every insane killer in America that schools are the safest place to inflict maximum mayhem with minimum risk,” LaPierre said.

Although governments from federal all the way down to the local level have acknowledged this issue, it seems these measures have not helped in decreasing the number of school shootings in our country.

There are a lot of points for the argument against having armed guards in schools, but funding seems be the main one.

The estimated cost of having armed guards in every school would be $15 billion per year.

This number comes from Steven Strauss ,who is an adjunct lecturer in public policy at Harvard.

With America being in a deep deficit already, the question is, where will the schools and states find the funding?

Strauss also believes that having armed guards in schools would lead to lots of opportunities for deadly incidents.

“Armed guards misreading student behavior (a student mistakenly shot while playing with a toy gun), student fights where a student grabs the guard’s gun,

Cheif of Security Bill Myers supports armed security at the college. Myers has been working at the college for ten years.

a mass shooting scenario where students are killed in crossfire, or a nightmare scenario where a psychotic guard massacres students,” Strauss said.

Chris Christie, governor of New Jersey, is opposed to armed

guards in schools as well.

“You don’t want to make this an armed camp for kids,” Christie said. “I don’t think that’s a positive example for children. We should be able to figure out other ways to enhance safety.”

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Chris Christie is a Republican, and the NRA is among the top funders of Republicans during political races, including the presidential election.

Christie is a potential Republican presidencial candidate for 2016. Ironically, he speaks out against LaPierre and the NRA. The debate over armed guards in school is a worthy one; virtually everyone agrees that children need to be safe while attending school.

While politicians are debating what is the best decision for our children, school shooting are still occurring.

January of this year another school shooting took place, this time at a community college outside of Houston, Texas. The shooting took place in the afternoon while classes were in session, leaving three wounded.

A lot of universities and community colleges already have armed campus security guards.

Also, some high schools in this country have a state or county police officer on duty while school is in session.

Columbine High School had an armed police officer on campus when its shooting occurred. At that time, it was the most deadly school shooting, killing 14 students and wounding 23.

Also, at Virginia Tech there was campus security, and that shooting led to the death of 33 college students.

Students unaware of what is beneath their feet Hannah Boulton Agora Staff

The Cellar is located in the basement of Building a, below the bookstore. It has TVs, couches, a ping pong table and seating for homework and eating.

Industrial Technology wants name change Nicki Kostrzewa Agora Staff

The Industrial Technology Division of MCCC has requested a name change.

Faculty in the division have proposed the new title, “Applied Science and Engineering Technology.”

“We will be identifying ourselves with what we actually do in the division,” said Peter Coomar, dean of the Industrial Technology Division.

“A name which recognizes what we do within the division gives them more marketability and recognition in the employment field and for transfer of programs and courses.”

Faculty members thought it would be good to remain consistent with other divisions and departments in other institutions, Coomar said.

The change is also consistent with new faculty members being introduced into the division, as well as course modifications.

“Our goal is to get more electrical components into automotive,” Coomar said.

The name change is also timed to coincide with the move to a new building this summer.

“The kind of things that we do is Applied Science,” Coomar said.

This in turn allows the college to market the new name, along with the new building, which could lead to the possibility of higher enrollment in those specific courses and programs.

After reviewing suggestions made by the three college councils, a motion was made to send the new name for approval.

“Engineering Technology is a new term which we are showcasing a little bit — more hands-on type of technology,” Coomar said.

“In 2008, we had the ecoomy down turn and of course unforitionatly there was a lot of, what I would call, false rumors being spread that manifacturing is dead, no body wants to go into that stuff anymore,” said Tom Harrill, the Assistant Professor of Electronics and Computer Technology.

The old name, “Industrial Technology,” was kind of tied to that, Harrill said.

“With the name change it shows that we are moving forward,” he said.

“This is going to bring students, and let the students sell themselves appropriately to jobs,” Coomar said.

The devision meets in the second week of April, where it will be discussing the progress of the request for a name change, along with many other subjects.

A hang out spot at the college is just beneath your feet.

Located in the back entrance of the A building is a set of doors leading to the underground of the school, known as the “Cellar.”

Events are sometimes held there, but it’s primarily meant for students who have some time in between classes and want a place to hang out with friends and play some games.

Students seem to always be looking for a place to hang out, so why is the Cellar often vacant?

“I did not even know what those doors led to. I thought maybe it was a classroom, until my curiosity led me down there one day,” said Machala Fisher a second semester student.

“If I had time in between classes I would definitely spend time in front of the TVs down there. Got to stay up to date with my soap operas.”

Students who do not use the Cellar as a hangout say that its location is out of the way. Not many classes are held in the A building.

“The only time that I even go to A is on the rare occasion that I forget my packed lunch at home and eat in the cafeteria,” said Cameron Jallad.

For those students who do frequent the administration building, you can find them dispersed around the tables in the cafeteria or around the different seating areas, even though there is a hang out space beneath their feet.

“The Cellar is normally just filled with the people that are nor-

mally down there. I can’t imagine why, though. It’s actually a pretty cool place down there,” said Student Casey Allen.

A certain group of students who are all friends can normally be found in the Cellar, enjoying the space.

“I’ve been down to the cellar twice in the whole two years I have been taking classes here.

The first time it was empty, the second time it had a bunch of people down there. It had a great energy, I might go down there again,” said student Joshua Meek.

The Cellar is open Monday to Thursday from 11 a.m to 8 p.m.

It’s busiest hours are in the evening from 3 p.m to 5 p.m, according to the Cellar attendant, Kameron Kuzich.

“It can get pretty loud down

here,” Kuzich said.

A helpful hint to any new students — the Cellar can be a source of friends at the college. A game of ping pong with a student you have never met can lead to a new friendship.

On the other end of the spectrum, seasoned students can keep in touch with past classmates.

Often students bond in class with the student next to them, but the friendship ends at the end of the semester.

“When I use the Cellar, it’s for catching up with the classmates I’ve connected with during past semesters. It’s quick and it’s somewhere everyone can easily access,” said Mariah Baker.

The space is just beneath your feet and it is accessible to every student on campus.

Math redesign plays to mixed reviews Continued from Page 1

of time and money if I had been made aware of how implausible my course schedule was,” Dayvolt said.

Dayvolt pays out-of-pocket to attend college. Losing the money from having to drop math and then having to pay it again so she can graduate, is a devastating loss, she said.

Yackee said more students were failing prior to the redesign, so more students would have to pay to retake the course. With the redesign, fewer students are failing and they’re now able to take more than one class in a semester for the cost of one, she said.

In fall 2011, prior to the redesign, only 48 percent passed with a D or higher and the number of students who were mastering the content was only about 40.5 percent, Yackee said.

It is, in the long-run, costing students less this way than it may have otherwise, Yackee said.

The redesign helps students learn critical thinking, organizational skills and independent learning, Yackee said.

“It’s not just the content,” she said. “It’s the structure.”

MCCC student Andrew Brown has already taken math 090. He’s in 092 this semester and needs 151 in order to graduate.

“The structure of the class is awesome,” he said. “The online setup is so simple; watch videos, apply it, and do your homework - it’s simple.”

Brown said he is ahead in the class and doing great, but there are a few things about the redesign he doesn’t like.

“I don’t think you should be forced to take 090 or 092, no matter what you got on your compass,” he said. “I know I would’ve been able to pass 151 without the other classes; I should’ve been given a

“I don’t think you should be forced to take 090 or 092, no matter what you got on your compass.”

Andrew Brown

MCCC student

choice.”

You have to achieve a certain level for reading and writing on the compass test before you can even take a developmental course, Yackee said.

“Math, we haven’t had a bottom,” she said. “We take all the students, even those who are remedial, because math is different.”

Yackee said that math hasn’t been restricted just yet, but they are still looking at the data.

“Remedial education means that you’ve never mastered the content,” she said. “Developmental education is a refresher; we even call it that in our catalog.”

If a student is reading at a second grade level, we’d be lying if we said they would be successful in a developmental class like reading 090, and that’s why we have the learning bank and adult education, she said.

“We want to help our students to be prepared,” Yackee said. “These programs are really successful, if you follow them.”

This is about non-college mathematics that the college doesn’t have to offer; but as a community college and a stepping stone to higher education, we do, Yackee said.

“In today’s world, we have to make sure they at least have a certain competency level where they can go on if they have to,” Maltese said.

The guidelines that were in place before were to simply get students through the class; just to pass it, Maltese said.

“The philosophy years ago was, if

you came to the community college and didn’t make it, you still got a job somewhere, because there were plenty of jobs out there for someone with just a high school diploma,” Maltese said. “Well, that’s no longer true.”

He explained that today’s job market is more competitive than it has ever been before and more employers are expecting entry-level employees to continue learning, just to keep their job.

“There are a lot of students, many more than ever before, that need this developmental work to go on,” Maltese said.

People had seen this math before, it was just a matter if needing a refresher, he said.

Maltese said students have to complete a program to get a job, to go to work, or to transfer.

He emphasized that students who have concerns are encouraged to come speak with him.

“It’s crucial that all students know that I am available to them if they have any questions or concerns,” Maltese said. “That’s what we are here for; to see our students succeed and to help them do it any way we can.”

Yackee shares the same philosophy as Maltese. She said when a student comes in with a concern, the system allows access to the students’ progress. It shows exactly where the student is at, which is a very serviceable feature, she added.

“I take students concerns very seriously,” she stated. “I talk to every

one of these students’ who will talk to me.”

Professor of Mathematics Khadija Ahmed said the redesign has a strong track record of student success and retention.

“As before, not all students are completing the developmental math course in one semester,” she said.

“Under the new model, when a student doesn’t complete a course, they register for it again and continue where they left off in the previous semester.”

Ahmed said this allows students to continue to make progress toward their academic goals and provides more opportunities for success.

Generally, students finish the course in a second attempt, and if they complete the course early, they can continue to work on the next course, she said.

“Every semester, I have students who have changed from being insecure about their ability to do math,” said Ahmed. “To gaining confidence through success, that they can achieve their goals.”

She said the data over the years showed the methods they were using to teach math was so unsuccessful. The redesign has a profound change in a student’s ability to retain the material and remain engaged.

MCCC’s success rates in the developmental math courses were historically very low, but about the same as national averages, Ahmed said.

“The math faculty did not want to continue to teach in the same way as we always have, which meant we would continue to get the same poor results,” she said.

We learned that the Emporium model was applied successfully over and over again, she said. Using all the information we gathered, we came up with what we believe would best meet the needs of our students, Ahmed said

A&E

April 3, 2013

mcccagora.com • The Agora

|4

Spring brings new life, ideas Hannah Boulton Agora Staff

It’s time to shed the layers and drop the books for summer. Want to guarantee your summer is action packed?

Don’t sit at home in the same sweat pants you were wearing all winter watching re-runs of the Walking Dead all summer. Take advantage of all the events the warm weather brings.

For the music lovers, be on the lookout for concerts and music festivals.

If you are into Electronic Dance Music, there are two major must attend events beginning just a few weeks after classes end.

The Detroit Electronic Music Festival or “DEMF” kicks off its three day bash on May 25.

Single- day tickets can be bought for $40 and three-day tickets can be bought for $80 according to spacelab.com. Almost 70 EDM artists are already on the line up and tickets are selling fast.

Students, who enjoy DEMF, will love Electric Forrest even more. Like DEMF, it is a three day bash in Rothbury, Michigan starting June27.

Only downfall is it’s around $300 for the whole weekend, but on the flip side you get to camp all three nights in tents or campers. For more information go to electricforrestfestival.com.

For those into Country music two big names in the industry are coming to the area. Tim McGraw will be at the DTE Energy Music Theatre on May 19 for his Two Lanes of Freedom Tour. On Ticketmaster the tickets range from $30-$80.

Kenny Chesney will also be preforming this summer on August 17 at Ford Field. Chesney tickets are pricier starting at around $50-250 for his No Shoes Nation Tour.

Hip-hop and R&B lovers need to prepare for one of the biggest and most talked about concerts for the summer: Legends

of the Summer. Jay-Z and Justin Timberlake collaborate after Timberlake’s long absence on stage.

The concert to be at is Aug 6 at Ford Field. Tickets go from $120275 on Ticketmaster and are on sale now.

Comedy Central star, Daniel Tosh, will also be coming to the Detroit area. June 8 at the Fox Theatre, Tosh will be having a comedy show. Prices range from $60-&85 according to Ticketmaster.

For students on a budget, there is more to do than concerts on a summer night. The key is to locate a key group of friends that is willing to go out and do things over the summer.

Starting in spring, bon fires will start up again as well as camping.

Camping may be “gross” and “boring” for some, but for other groups of people it can be a great way to bond with friends and family. For a cheap price, too.

There are several camping sites in the local area that offer shower and bathroom services as well as activities such as swimming, fishing, hiking and so on. Two in the area that are relatively cheap is KOA and Totem Pole Park.

Camping at KOA with a tent per and without a pet is about $50 a night. Facilities such as an arcade, bike rental, convenience shop, snack bar, water slide and fishing areas are can jack up the price per night.

If you are looking for a more relaxed and cheaper camping stay, Totem Pole Park can offer that for around $30 a night according to Electric Forrest is one of the largest EDM festivals in Michigan. It’s located in Rothbury, about four hours from Monroe! their website if tent camping.

Sites such as Groupon can help deals on dining and activities you where you want to go in life spend, go to the local parks, look Michigan is in no way compastudents short of cash enjoy a such as scuba diving in Michigan. and follow the necessary steps to into free events and get yourself rable to the famous beach sites in out there even if your wallet only the country, but Michigan is sur- great get-a-way for a frugal price. Deals are unlimited on Groupon get there.

A weekend at Kalahari can cost a and perfect for students trying to It is also not too late to get an collects dust. rounded by bodies of water. save their cash. internships for the summer. It Whether you have money or Lake Michigan is clean and has couple hundred bucks.

A deal on Groupon can get you Maybe if living it up during the looks good on a resume to have not, do something over your summany beach locations such as in Traverse City that can be explored a beautiful suite with a Jacuzzi tub summer time is not your desire internships in the field of your mer break instead of putting a at the Weathervane Terrace Inn and instead you want to jump start study. You would be surprised at dent in the couch or worse the pint on a small road trip up north.

Small getaways such as Kalaha- off Lake Michigan for under $89 your future and prepare for your how many employers offer intern- of ice cream in your freezer. career. ships. Who would’t turn down ri or different lodges can help you a night.

The coupon site does not limit Take the extra free time on your free labor? escape the dull Monroe area for you to just getaways; it also has hands to formulate a plan to get If you don’t have money to the weekend, but can cost a lot.

YOUR FUTURE STARTS HERE!

Perks of being a Wallflower Carla Crocket Agora Staff

After being published for 13 years, The Perks of Being a Wallflower was made into a touching film for a young audience.

Directed by the original author, Stephen Chbosky, it really makes you think about the main character, Charlie.

Charlie, who is played by Logan Lerman, states in the beginning that he is writing to a girl who remains unnamed, because he feels she might understand him.

The film has mature humor which comes mainly from their

showings of The Rocky Horror Picture Show and Charlie’s new friends Patrick (Ezra Miller) and Sam (Emma Watson).

Sam and Patrick quickly realized that Charlie doesn’t have any other friends. Patrick states to their school friends, “He’s a wallflower. You see things. You keep quiet about them. And you understand.”

There are certain scenes that are left out of this film that were in the book as goes with any film adapting form an original story.

They did a good job condensing the 213 page book into a 102 min-

ute movie.

In the 1999 book, they mention certain books Charlie’s teacher, Mr. Anderson, gives him. They also mention specific songs that are listened to, and gifts that are given for Christmas. Most of those are shown or at least mentioned throughout.

Rotten Tomatoes, a popular criticism site, gave The Perks of Being a Wallflower an 85 percent.

It’s a tale of love, friendship, and haunting memories. I recommend anyone who has read the book to check out this coming age movie.

Spiderman falls on broadway Julia Wells Agora Staff

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Since before its debut on broadway in June of 2011, Spider-Man: Turn Off the Dark had created much buzz.

The show, which cost $65 million to produce, features ambitious aerial stunts that went awry during the first previews and left cast and audience members injured.

After several delayed opening nights, technical difficulties have since been smoothed over and no further problems have been reported.

As a fan of the Spider-Man franchise, my hopes were high for this unlikely broadway show. After I watched, I realized that maybe letting Spider-Man sing, wasn’t as great of an idea as it sounded.

The wire work was entertaining but it was the only thing that kept me awake. They did a great job of portraying Spider-Man webbing

around the city and flying over the audience was a nice touch. The children were elated when SpiderMan sat next to them and waved.

The show very much relied on its visual attraction with flashy tricks and bright costumes, to entertain. There was a part where all of the villains in their shiny, Scooby-Doo-esque costumes were being showcased like a fashion show. This seemed like a filler scene that served no other purpose than showing off designer talents.

As far as the plot, they loosely followed the blockbuster film as well as the original comics. They also added a side story involving the greek myth of Arachne, who was intended to be a sort of mentor to Peter Parker but in reality she was just a pretty voice who showed up occasionally.

The humor was at least chuckle-worthy but was not enough to keep the adults entertained as most of it was quite juvenile. It

often teeter-tottered between a children’s show and the pg-13 hit movie.

Providing some comedic relief was the character of the green goblin with his dry wit; his commentary with the audience was almost sympathetic as if to say “hang in there, it’s almost over”.

The songs were written by Bono and The Edge of U2, which would explain the misplaced U2 songs in random scenes of the show.

The original songs were as campy and cliche as a broadway musical should be, especially a musical about a teenage superhero in tights. Still, as two members of one of the world’s most successful rock bands, I expected more.

Two hours, 45 minutes, and one very much needed 15 minute intermission later, I had rushed out of the theatre in hopes to still remain a Spider-Man fan after witnessing this sad attempt to reinvent the story.

Another hit from a Kansas tornado Christine Pettit Agora Staff

The great wizard that everyone has been waiting for has arrived.

After being swept up into a tornado in Kansas, Oscar Diggs (James Franco) ends up in a new world that is Oz in Disney’s The Great and Powerful Oz. There he meets three witches, Theodora (Mila Kunis), Evanora (Rachel Weisz), and Glinda (Michelle Williams), who don’t fully believe he is the wizard that he claims to be, and that the city has been waiting for.

With his trusted flying monkey sidekick, Finley (Zach Braff), Oscar must find out who is good and who is evil before it’s too late.

He is forced to put his magical ingenuity to the test and trick those of The Emerald City with illusions in order to save them and their city.

This movie takes you to a new world entirely. It makes you believe in magic even when they are faking it.

Though I’m not sure how anyone on set got anything done with that lovely smile that takes up James Franco’s entire face, Direc-

tor Sam Raimi does an amazing job of keeping all of the magic and awe from the original Wizard of Oz. The special effects were just as unique as Oz itself.

I don’t have much that is negative to say about it.

I enjoyed the characters: the witches, the wizard, and even the flying monkey bellhop and fragile china girl.

It’s fun to believe in magic and fairytales. This movie helps you do that.

Feature

April 3, 2013

mcccagora.com • The Agora

|5

Sleep’s important - but can be hard to get Katie Mullin Agora Staff

The English language has a separate lexicon devoted to sleep: counting sheep, catching zzzs, getting shut-eye, and sweet dreams.

The process of sleep and the uncharted territory of dreams has been the subject of study for years.

Like breathing, shutting our eyelids is a necessary part of our lives. If it’s unbalanced, our body suffers.

Much of sleep is still unknown, but what has been studied has opened a world that is unlike anything to man.

According to the Mayo Clinic’s website, the recommended amount of sleep for adults is 7-9 hours for optimum health.

However, juggling a job, school, and sometimes a family life often prevents students from getting a well-rested night.

The amount of hours of sleep a college student gets is like a roller coaster that continuously climbs and plunges.

“I think they’re 100 percent true. I feel like that’s still not even enough,” Chantalle Asmaro, a sophomore nursing student, said about the sleep recommendations.

“You’re not at the top of your game when you don’t sleep.”

Penelope Dunn

Criminal Justice Professor

“I used to be able to sleep with the TV on but now I can’t.”

Jake Hengy

Middle College Student

MCCC students and identical twins Jessica and Jennifer Oldiges may look alike, but differ in the sleep department.

Jessica says on a good night, she receives about 6 hours but can survive on 3.

Her twin, Jennifer, responded that she may get 10 hours on a decent night, but 8 on a sub-par one.

Jennifer said that when she receives good sleep, the ability to create comes more easily in her ceramics class.

“Where are you going to find 7-8 hours sleep,” asked student Timothy Wilson, after hearing the required amount of sleep for an adult.

Wilson said the average sleep he receives is 3-6 hours at the most.

Penelope Dunn, a Criminal Justice professor, said she gets about 5 hours a night.

A former sheriff’s deputy, Dunn said she used to work swing shifts; her body got used to short periods of sleep.

Based on her experience, she has learned a lesson about getting too little shut-eye.

“You’re not at the top of your game when you don’t sleep,” she said.

Just as a person’s sleep hab-

Agora photo by Katie Mullins

Students who are challenged to get enough sleep sometimes catch a few winks at various spots around campus.

its run across the number charts, how a person gets to sleep is not a simple formula.

“I can’t sleep without praying. I have to say my prayers before going to bed,” said Asmaro, who is Catholic.

“I used to be able to sleep with the TV on, but now I can’t.

“I sleep a lot better if I do something,” said Jake Hengy, a Middle College student.

Physical activity is the key for Hengy to feel tired.

Asmaro added that the TV also helps her go to sleep, as well as reading.

Even lighting a candle creates a

soothing atmosphere.

“It makes me feel relaxed,” Asmaro said.

Jennifer and Jessica Oldiges both listen to the radio to help them catch their zzzs.

Students also have definite opinions on what keeps them lying wide awake.

“If there’s chaos outside, I’m going to have dreams that wake me up,” Professor Dunn said.

“I don’t watch horror stories. I make sure I don’t eat before I go to sleep,” Wilson said.

He also noted that media containing dark content will give him nightmares.

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features

April 3, 2013

mcccagora.com • The Agora

|6

A taste of Indian culture draws crowd One Book, One Community kicks off

“We don’t have to speak a foreign language to appreciate the music of its culture.”

Cheryl Johnston Board of Trustees member

Natasha Wickenheiser Student

The cultural taste of India drew a diverse audience to Monroe County’s One Book, One Community kick-off event.

About 120 people attended the March 12 festivities, said One Book, One Community Chairwoman Cheryl Johnston.

The event, which promoted Chitra Banerjee Divakaruni’s novel, “One Amazing Thing,” combined the Indian cultural elements of music, dance, and henna tattoos with the novel’s fundamental premise of storytelling.

“Because Divakaruni is Bengali, we thought it was important to present diversity in a way that students haven’t seen before,” Johnston said. “We wanted to have an event that celebrated India’s contribution to our culture.”

Attendees could connect with the culture by listening to the rhythmic Indian music playing in the La-Z-Boy Center Atrium.

“Music is a universal language,” Johnston said. “We don’t have to speak a foreign language to appreciate the music of its culture.”

Combined with traditional Indian dancing, featured performers brought new life to the music being played.

Noopur Parekh, who has been performing Indian dances since the age of 5, performs at the kickoff ovent for One Book, One Community of Monroe County.

Performers included dancer Ruchita Coomar, the daughter of Peter Coomar, MCCC’s Dean of Industrial Technology, and singer Oishi Chakravarti.

Seeing young individuals interested in the arts and cultural preservation is refreshing, Johnston said.

The event’s final performer was

Ruchita Coomar performs a traditional Indian dance.

Noopur Parekh, a 17-year-old who has been practicing traditional Indian dance since the age of five.

“Dancing is my only passion,” Parekh said.

Since turning 13, Parekh has been teaching Bollywood dance to younger children, including Ruchita Coomar.

“It’s important to spread our culture—not just with younger people, but with everyone in the community,” she said.

Parekh, Coomar and Chakravarti were excited to share their culture, and event attendees were eager to embrace it.

“I am most interested in watching the dance performances,”

MCCC student Kevin Stewart said.

The performances provided artistic insight that MCCC student Kaitlin Moore appreciated and respected.

“Connecting with a community that I haven’t had access to is a new, enriching experience,” she said. “I hope to see more of this culture in the future.”

Other attendees, such as community member Donna Wickenheiser, were more interested in the henna tattoos being offered by Henna Muse artist Jen Schafer.

“I’ve always been fascinated by henna art, but have never had the opportunity to wear it,” Wickenheiser said.

Many others shared Wickenheiser’s enthusiasm for henna tattoos. The line for Schafer’s table was consistently full of children, studentsw and adults during the One Book, One Community kickoff.

“It was worth the wait,” Moore said.

When attendees were finished enjoying the cultural elements of music, dance, and henna, they were encouraged to record their own story.

Inspired by the storytelling in One Amazing Thing, community member Sue Neshkoff finds personal stories important to the formation of relationships.

“Most people don’t take the time to learn other peoples’ stories,” she said.

In an effort to change this tendency, many attendees chose to have their stories filmed and shared with the community of Monroe.

“There is a difference between living in a community and being part of a community,” Johnston said. “Storytelling creates our sense of belonging to a group.”

Eric Slough, grant coordinator for MCCC, spoke with community members to find the similarities that connected them as a communal unit.

“We’re all connected,” he said.

“People can grow up in completely different areas and have a lot of things in common.”

The event succeeded in displaying the universal appreciation of cultural diversity, and the necessity of storytelling within a community.

“It was a great success,” Johnston said.

A student receives a Henna tattoo from artist Jen Schafer.

Students weigh in on the great pants debate Joshua Rains Agora staff

“Pants on the ground, pants on the ground. Looking like a fool with your pants on the ground.”

These words from Larry Platt, of American Idol fame, can be applied to some at MCCC. When it comes to pants, and how students, and some faculty for that manner, choose to wear them, one can’t help but ponder the decision making process that goes into picking out the perfect pair.

Walk around campus in between classes, or go to the cafeteria during busy hours and you’ll be sure to notice at least one person with their underwear exposed.

Unfortunately it is not just pants on the ground that we have to worry about; there is a definite line of too tight that is crossed all too commonly, as well.

Several current and former MCCC students had thoughts on the subject.

“For males, we shouldn’t see the outline of their genitals, but it should not be baggy to where they are too big. For females, it can hug their lower half, but it should not squeeze it,” said former MCCC student and current Monroe resident Joshua Soncrant, 22.

Pants are meant to cover one’s privates, and we shouldn’t see any outlines of them.

“Pants should not be baggy to the point where they are halfway down someone’s ass, and they shouldn’t be anything you can see right through, like the bottom half of leggings,” said second-

“As long as they aren’t indecent or offensive, we shouldn’t censor clothes. It is a First Amendment right.”

Lori Bean Chemistry and Biology professor

VS.

GUIDELINES TO COVER INTIMATE ANATOMY

“Pants should not be baggy to the point where they are halfway down someone’s ass, and they shouldn’t be anything you can see right through, like the borrom half of leggings..”

Katie Smith MCCC student

year-student Katie Smith.

The general consensus among students was that their body parts should be covered, with most saying that they did not want to see other people’s undergarments either.

Associate Professor of Chemistry and Biology Lori Bean offered a more political view.

“As long as they (the clothes) aren’t indecent or offensive we shouldn’t censor clothes. It is a First Amendment right,” said Bean.

With careful consideration given to all of these opinions, here is a set of guidelines that should satisfy all members of the pants debate.

First, cover yourself.

If someone wants to see your behind they can ask you to see it in private. You shouldn’t walk around campus exposing your underwear; they were given that name for a reason.

Second, don’t wear pants so tight that we can see your more intimate anatomy.

Outlines of your private parts aren’t meant to be seen in public.

Finally, and most importantly, be comfortable in what you choose to wear.

Whether or not you choose to follow the first two guidelines is your choice; be prepared to face scrutiny if you choose not to.

Editorial/Briefs

April 3, 2013

mcccagora.com • The Agora

|7

Camo goes from combat gear to fashion trend Christine Pettit Agora Staff

This camouflage trend needs to be stopped.

Sure, wear it hunting so you have the upper hand to those animals without opposable thumbs.

However, here at school we can all still see you and your lack of efforts in the fashion department.

I mean, sure, adding a splash of pink to your Cabela’s camouflage hoodie totally shouts, “I like to kill animals, but I’m also cute and girly!”

Kind of…

For whatever reason, this trend is growing much too rapidly.

Now I don’t want you all to come at me with your NRA stick-

er-covered rifles and bows.

To each their own, really. All I’m saying is do your best not to get bated into this trap that you can so clearly avoid.

If wearing camouflage makes you feel rugged or edgy, try a cool flannel with darker colored jeans and boots.

You can dress that simple outfit up or down depending on what you accessorize it with.

A good flannel will never go out of style.

Another simple solution could be dark green Chino colored pants with a dark brown button-down.

Adding a splash of color to these outfits is just as easy as buying a lime green Under Armor

hoodie with camouflage embellishment.

For women, finding a brightly colored flannel isn’t hard to do.

And now with spring around the corner, pastel colored jeans are in style.

Adding something like a printed jean shirt with a pair of coral colored skinny jeans with a cute pair of oxfords or even simple flats is the ideal outfit idea for the upcoming season.

You never need a reason to go out and spoil yourself once in a while, but switching out that tired camo look for something new and fresh for the spring is a damn good one.

Camo, while popular among our service men and women for combat reasons, has also grown popular amongst today’s youth as a fashion statement.

Congress needs to wake up to today’s reality Carla Crockett Agora Staff

In this day and age, I believe everyone should be able to be with whom they want, regardless of gender.

There are now six states that recognize same sex marriage.

The issue has been brought to the Supreme Court because couples of the same sex want to claim each other in their state on their taxes, and can’t.

The six states that recognize same sex marriage aren’t recognized federally; this is creating a problem for those trying to get their tax money back.

Is it anyone’s business who we chose to marry?

I believe it isn’t.

If their state has recognized same sex marriage, then they have a right to get their taxes back.

The Defense of Marriage Act states that marriage is strictly between a man and a woman.

The issue goes beyond just getting tax money back.

Same sex couples are having a problem getting health insurance benefits.

The Obama administration did

not defend the federal courts decision; that’s why it’s now going to the Supreme Court.

This will be an on-going case, I’m sure, because it is getting a lot of attention from the media and supporters.

It’s 2013. It’s a different time than when the Defense of Marriage Act was created in 1996.

If we can state that Medical Marijuana is legal in some states, then why can’t we recognize same sex marriage?

It’s a new era. Wake up Congress!

Briefly:

Family Fun Night returns to MCCC Family Fun Night is scheduled for Friday, April 19 from 6 – 8:30 p.m.

In previous years, over 700 community members have brought their children to this inexpensive family event.

Family Fun Night offers various carnival type games, clowns, magicians, face painting, giant inflatable’s and this year, Star Wars Characters and more.

The event will take place in the Health Building.

Student Government is asking for students to help with the Family Fun Night! Approximately 80 volunteers are needed.

Anyone able to help any time between 6 and 8:30 p.m. should contact Tom Ryder by Monday, April 8. He can be reached at (734) 384-4201 or tryder@ monroeccc.edu.

Rick Hubbert wins Enriching Lives award Rick Hubbert, computer lab technician from the Business Division, is the next recipient of the Enriching Lives Performance Award.

Molly McCutchan, MCCC’s director of Human Resources, said the person who nominated Hubbert said he’s exceptionally supportive of students.

“Whenever there is a problem, Rick fixes it with a wonderful demeanor, along with helping everyone who approaches him in the same manner,” the nominator wrote. “ He has personally enhanced the Lab so it is welcoming and warm for everyone’s use. He is an asset to the college, contributing his personal time and energy towards fulfilling all requirements to make the Lab superior to all I have run across in nearly 15 years of teaching as an adjunct.”

Any students or staff members can nominate an employee of MCCC by visiting the college website.

Gradfest 2013 scheduled for April 9

Whitman holds Dual Enrollment Night Parents and students from all Monroe County high schools are invited to attend this information night concerning the dual enrollment of Monroe County high schools students.

The event will feature a comprehensive presentation of the pros and cons of dual enrollment.

Staff from the Office of Admissions and Guidance Services will be on hand to answer questions and to explain the procedures of dual enrollment.

Dual Enrollment Night will be held on April 18 at 6:30 p.m. in Room 9.

“Wall Pieces” exhibit opens at Whitman Center MCCC art instructors will have various wall pieces on display throughout the Whitman Center.

MCCC art instructors Gary Wilson, Ted Vassar, and Dan Stewart will be displaying some of their own work.

Pieces will include ceramics by Gary Wilson, watercolors by Ted Vassar, and acrylics by Dan Stewart.

The “Wall Pieces” display will be up from April 1-26 at the Whitman Center.

Photos by Angie Souva

The American Red Cross held a blood drive at MCCC in March.

Mark Crilley to visit Whitman April 22

GSA set to develop Diversity Mural

Artist and illustrator Mark Crilley will be visiting the Whitman Center on April 22 at 7 p.m. in Room 4.

In 1998, Crilley was chosen by “Entertainment Weekly” magazine for a spot on the “It List,” which is an annual issue dedicated to the 100 most creative people in entertainment.

Crilley’s novels have been featured in USA Today, the New York Daily News, and Disney Adventures Magazine, as well as on CNN Headline News.

Crilley will be visiting the Whitman Center for a demonstration as well as a Q&A.

The Gay-Straight Alliance and Diversity Committee will be developing a diversity mural in celebration of diversity in the U.S. The goal is to instill a culture of pride that compliments MCCC and the learning environment, and also enhance the sense of community, tolerance, and understanding of diversity and harmony on campus, according to the mural announcement.

Students can submit artwork electronically in PDF or JPEG format to Penny Bodell, GSA advisor at pbodell@monroeccc.edu by April 5.

Entries must provide the full name, e-mail address, mailing address, and phone number of all who participated in the creation of the entry.

Judging will be based on impact of diversity message, originality, and artistic arrangement.

Gradfest will be held on Tuesday, April, 9, from 11 a.m. - 2 p.m. and from 4-7 p.m. in the main campus dining room.

Everything you need for graduation will be available to potential graduates. Students can pick up their cap, gown, and tickets — photo ID is required.

Students can also order their class rings, and preorder the Commencement DVD. Other activities include purchasing of alumni clothing, and diploma frames, and joining the Alumni Association.

Also, students can meet with four-year universities and employment services.

For more information, call 734-384-4108.

Antique show returns to MCCC in April The 12 annual Antiques in April show is coming to MCCC April 6 and April 7.

The show will be from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday, and from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Sunday in the Health building.

This show offers many iteams from the 18, 19, and 20th centuries.

Tickets to attend the show will be $3 dollars at the door.

For more information, contact Tom Ryder at (734) 384-4201 or tryder@monroeccc.edu.

sports

8

April 3, 2013

mcccagora.com • The Agora

Lions look for improvement

Joshua Rains Agora Staff

The Detroit Lions entered the 2013 offseason with many holes on the roster.

The running back, cornerback, safety, linebacker, defensive end, offensive line, and wide receiver positions were all considered to be weak.

Many fans considered this to be a pivotal offseason for general manager Martin Mayhew; he responded in a big way.

By resigning key veterans, parting ways with others, and signing impact free agents such as Reggie Bush and Glover Quin, the Lions have filled many of the gaps on the roster.

Despite the early success in the offseason Mayhew’s most important work still lies ahead in the upcoming 2013 NFL Draft, which is being held April 25-27.

The Lions have the fifth pick in the draft, and speculation surrounding the pick changes with each signing.

Before the Lions resigned Louis

Delmas and Chris Houston, and added Glover Quin to their defensive backfield, the popular pick among fans was Alabama cornerback Dee Milliner.

Now that the secondary has been beefed up, and the Lions have lost both starting offensive tackles from last season, Jeff Backus to retirement, and Gosder Cherilus to the Indianapolis Colts, the popular opinion seems to be that the Lions should select a new left tackle.

Mayhew insists that he’ll stick with his standard “best player available” strategy, which is code for “I’m not telling you our plans”.

Left tackle prospects Eric Fisher (Central Michigan) and Lane Johnson (Oklahoma) are real possibilities for the Lions’ first pick.

While it may be tempting for Mayhew to draft one of the athletic pass rushers such as Ezekiel Ansah (BYU) or Dion Jordan (Oregon), the Lions have to protect franchise quarterback Matthew Stafford.

The Lions attempted more passes than any other team last year, and Staf-

ford has a history of shoulder injuries.

The Lions need to improve their pass rush, but the NFL is a quarterback driven league, and the Lions would be foolish not to address their needs along the offensive line.

Calvin Johnson, the highest paid wide receiver in league history, can’t make an impact if his quarterback is under constant pressure.

For now the Lions will say they are excited about players they have been grooming like career backups Jason Fox and Corey Hilliard, but they know it would be a huge mistake to not address the offensive tackle position with their first round pick in the draft.

The Lions hold the fourth pick in the second round, and the third pick in the third round.

The draft is deep with defensive lineman and the Lions can address their needs there with these picks, targeting a player such as Damontre Moore (Texas A&M) or Alex Okafor (Texas).

If the Lions can have a successful draft, they should make the playoffs next season.

Photo by Marianne O’Leary

The Lions need to stengthen their offensive line to protect their franchise quarterback.

Tigers, fans hope for better ending

William Miko Agora Staff

Winter semester is winding down, which means the Detroit Tigers are warming up.

The 2012 season ended with both highs and lows, making it to the World Series only to have it end in a four game sweep by the San Francisco Giants.

The Tigers signed veteran outfielder Tori Hunter during the offseason to add to their already high octane offense. Last season Tori Hunter hit 16 home runs, 92 RBI, and had a batting average of .313.

The Tigers also had to let a few big named players go, including;

Delmon Young, Brennan Boesch, and their beloved closer Jose Valverde.

Valverde was great in their 2011 campaign, but last season he could not maintain the same level of excellence. In 2011 Valverde was perfect in save opportunities, 2012 yielded different results.

Valverde was in the last year of his contract in 2012 and his performance was not as good as the two previous seasons so the Tigers decided not to resign their closer.

Now the Tigers are going into the 2013 without a closing pitcher.

The 2 players competing for the job are rookie Bruce Rondon,

and last year’s playoff closer, Phil Coke.

Besides losing a few big name players, the Tigers key players are all coming back, and are ready for another shot at the championship; Miguel Crabera, Prince Fielder, Justin Verlander, Alex Avila, Victor Martinez, Austin Jackson etc.

Detroit also signed their longtime manager Jim Leyland for a one year contract extension. Leyland leads all active managers in the MLB with 1,676 wins, and is 15 all-time in wins for managers.

It is clear that the Tigers feel that they can repeat their success of last season, and maybe bring

the championship home to Detroit this season.

The competition around them is improving, which will make it difficult for the Tigers to get back to the World Series.

According to many sources, the Los Angeles Angels are the team to beat in the American League.

The Angles added power hitter Josh Hamilton to their already potent line up. Albert Pujols, Hamilton, and last year’s rookie of the year Mike Trout, will make the Angels a tough out for anyone.

MLB.com has the Angels as the second best team coming into the 2013 season with the Detroit

Tigers on their heels coming in at fourth place.

Not only can the Tigers hit the ball, their pitching will be a serious threat as well. They still have Verlander who is still capable of a 20 win season, followed by Doug Fister, Max Scherzer, and Anibal Sanchez.

If Scherzer, Fister, and Sanchez can pitch well this season, the Tigers could very well be back in the American League Championship again.

Hitting and starting pitching should not be an issue with the Detroit Tigers this season, their issue lies in their late game pitch-

ing.

Dave Dombroski the GM of the Tigers says that they will be going into the season with a closer by committee. This could serve as a big issue for the Tigers, games are won and loss in the final innings.

You don’t want to have to worry about your pitcher in the eighth and ninth innings blowing leads and turning winnable games into losses.

There are many factors that go into getting back to the World Series. It is difficult to do 2 years in a row, but the pieces to the puzzle are in place for the Tigers to turn some heads this season.

Did you know…

You can finish your bachelor’s degree on the MCCC Campus!

Siena Heights University has a degree completion center right here on campus! Undergraduate classes available in:

• Accounting

• Bachelor of Applied Science

• Business Administration

• Multidisciplinary Studies

• Professional Communications

• Psychology

a n e i S Graduate classes available in Leadership. Contact Siena today at (734) 384-4133 or stop by our office in L-221.