Sept 26, 2013

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Zarza elected student president Matt Mullins Agora Staff

Joshua Zarza has been elected president of this year’s Student Government.

“I’m ambitious,” Zarza said. “I think we can accomplish things that we’ll be remembered for.”

Michelle Mcdevitt was elected vice-president.

“Student Government is like a second family,” Mcdevitt said. “I hoped I was going to win.”

Also elected were Shelby Angilley, secretary; Blaine Hubbert, Treasurer; Christopher Holmes, Liaison; and Michelle Kotanova, Historian.

“I feel very confident in the officers that did get elected,” Zarza said.

Student Government advisor, Tom Ryder, was also happy with the results.

“I think the students did a great job,” Ryder said.

“All the nominations were strong.”

Former Student Government president and current liaison, Christopher Holmes, was confident Photo by Matt Mullins with the new president.

New Student Government officers, from left: Michelle Kotanova, historian; Michelle McDevitt, vice president; “Joshua Zarza is the perfect choice,” Holmes said. Joshua Zarza, president; Shelby Angilley, secretary; Blaine Hubbert, treasurer, and Christopher Holmes, liaison.

“He identifies well with the student body.”

Holmes said he was also happy with the other grab the essence. Blaine (Hubbert) works directly president Mcdevitt said. “I think he’s going to do elected officers. with Tom, there will be a very small margin of er- great.”

“Michelle (McDevitt) is always there, you can ror,” Holmes said.

Zarza said he is up to the challenge though. count on her. Shelby (Angilley) is very articulate The torch has been handed off and the pressure is “This year I’m a lot more focused,” Zarza said. and very punctual as well. Michelle (Kotanova) did on new president, Joshua Zarza.

“There’s a very optimistic tone.” a wonderful job last year, she really knows how to “Josh (Zarza) does have big shoes to fill,” vice-

MCCC second among regional community colleges

“Joshua Zarza is the perfect choice.”

- Christopher Holmes Former Student Government President In the past year, Student Government has put on functions ranging from the Sweetheart Ball to the Family Fun Night and most recently, the Welcome Back Barbeque.

The tone of the elections seemed to be about getting new ideas into the committee.

“I like to see new, creative projects and ideas,” Ryder said. “Whatever they come up with is fun.”

Holmes also stressed the importance of this year’s Student Government bringing new ideas to the meetings.

“It’s time for new faces and ideas,” Holmes said.

“If you’re not progressing, you’re regressing.”

Zarza said he is not only dedicated to bringing new ideas to MCCC but he is also determined to change the communities view on the Student Government.

“We’re not just a student club,” Zarza said. “We meet every other Tuesday to discuss how we can better the community.”

Check out their website at www.monroeccc.edu/ stgovt to learn more about their mission and to contact Tom Ryder.

Coming together

William Miko Agora Staff

MCCC placed second out of 60 community colleges in Michigan, Ohio, and Indiana at ensuring student success, according to statistics from CNN Money.

CNN Money is the online partnership of CNN and Fortune and Money magazines.

According to the rankings, which were released in 2012, 46 percent of MCCC students graduated or transferred to a four year college within three years. Only Schoolcraft College, also in Michigan, ranked higher at 59 percent.

College Measures, a joint venture of the American Institutes of Research and Matrix Knowledge Group, created a chart for CNN Money to help students find the best options.

Based on the percentage of students that graduated within three years or transferred to four year colleges, they compiled a “success rating” for each community college in the U.S. They did not count community colleges with less than 200 full time freshman students.

According to the article, a college’s student success rate is one factor students should consider before enrolling to a college.

With the article from CNN, MCCC students are feeling encouraged about their futures.

“My job opportunities when I’m done might be a little better,” said Stephanie Boulay, Respiratory student.

To some, the news came as a surprise.

“It’s kind of a big deal being that we’re such a small community,” said Brandy Shillinger, Respiratory Therapy student.

To others, it wasn’t very shocking.

“I’m not surprised,” said Richard Seiler, Computer Information Technology student. “At a smaller school teachers are better able to take care of students.”

MCCC President Kojo Quartey told the College Board of Trustees Monday night how he uncovered the hidden MCCC achievement.

Quartey said he wanted to know how MCCC ranked in respect with other community colleges, but did not have any solid information about it.

He discovered that CNN had rated Midwestern community colleges last year, giving MCCC national recognition.

“It’s a good thing, but we still have a ways to go,” Quartey said. “It’s a story worth telling.”

The complete rankings can be viewed at www. money.cnn/pf/college/community-colleges.

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Photo by Katie Mullin

Steve Ryder saw his vision come to life in the form of the mural

Diversity mural promotes campus unity

Darryl White Agora Staff

MCCC’s new mural represents, not only students, but our entire race.

“The painting hopefully conveys our unity as human beings,” said Steve Ryder, designer of the mural.

“We are the species known as mankind. We all laugh, we all cry, we all suffer, we experience joy and all the struggles that are so unique to being man.”

Penny Bodell, Administrative Assistant to the vice president of Student and Information Services, proposed the idea for the mural to the Gay/Straight Alliance of MCCC, where she acts as an advisor.

“The idea to create a diversity mural began with the Gay-Straight Alli-

ance Club,” Bodell said “I presented the idea, and the club members loved it.”

The idea for the mural was approved late in 2011 after a considerable amount of planning.

“A proposal was made regarding the location and size of the mural, as well as the idea of holding a campus wide contest to choose one or more ideas,” Bodell said. “A winner was chosen in May of 2013.”

The idea chosen belonged to Steve Ryder, brother of Tom Ryder, Campus Community Events/Student Activities Coordinator. Steve was one of 22 people who submitted ideas last spring, and work began on the mural this fall.

“Internally, we are all the same! It

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is only when we get over the differences of our exterior being, will we progress as humans,” Ryder said.

Volunteers were asked to contribute their brushstrokes to the mural as a statement on the content of the artwork.

“This is the first of its kind on campus,” Bodell said in an email. “Everyone’s brushstroke represents our campus community and its willingness to live and exist in harmony.”

“I hope the mural will help in some small way to bring the campus community closer together – to remind us of what we have in common rather than what sets us apart.”

Bodell said.

“This mural makes a tremendous statement of how far MCCC has

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“Internally, we are all the same! It is only when we get over the differencees of our exterior being will we preogress as humans” -Steve Ryder Mural contest winner progressed, and the campus community’s desire to move forward,” she said.

The mural had been scheduled to be unveiled on Sept. 25.

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campus news

September 26, 2013

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Hiring changes in work study program

By Julia Wells Agora staff

Students who are work study eligible, which is determined by financial aid, now are being considered first by hiring departments.

The work study program is a federally and state funded program in which students may be hired to work for departments on campus.

Before this year, any and all students were given an equal opportunity to be hired. With some new funding, the program has began narrowing down their hiring window.

According to Valerie Culler, director of financial aid, this is not a huge change from the way things previously ran.

“The primary difference is this year we have more work study funding” said Culler.

“Because we now have more federal work study money to spend, when hiring students, we’ve asked the departments to give priority to students who are work study eligible,” she said. “It does not mean a student who does not qualify for work study can’t get a position.”

Students who have already been working as a stu-

dent assistant are not being asked to leave their position, regardless of their financial qualifications..

“All of the councils agree that this was a great opportunity for the college,” Culler continued. “The increase in our funding is great thing for students.”

Lezlee Downing, assistant leading manager for Cannon business solutions, is hiring student assistants in the copy center and while she agrees with the college’s policy, she sees the policy from a student’s perspective as well.

“I see both sides of it, on one hand I agree with them but on the other I feel that it gives a lot of dis-

advantages to students who don’t qualify for work study or financial aid due to their parents income.”

Downing said.

“Being an employer and looking for students, I feel bad for students who apply and are not in the work study program, they are not at a fair advantage,” “I think there are a lot of people who have done very well here who would have not qualified had this been enforced three years ago.”

She also said that she would rather see this policy enforced due to the budget, than having any student positions cut altogether.

Students face print charges William Miko Agora Staff

Students will have to pay for printing at MCCC in the near future. As of now that time and costs are not yet determined.

An task force was created last winter to address this issue, according to Brian Lay, manager of Information Systems.

Lay said the faculty, staff, and administrative counsels were asked for their input on charging for printing.

“The task force met in the summer to discuss input from the counsels,” Lay said.

The task force is in the process of deciding on the final details, like how many copies a student can make free, and how much they will be charged for additional copies, Lay said.

After final decisions are made on the policy and procedures, the software, called Paper Cut, will have to be tested.

“This is a nine or ten step process; we won’t just start charging students for printing out of nowhere,” Lay said.

Students’ use the printers at MCCC to print notes, copies of homework, presentations, and a lot more. Some students do not think it is fair that they have to pay for printing.

“I think it is part of our tuition.” said student, Amy Tessner.

Students also argue that if there is a charge, there should be a limit of pages that can be printed for free.

“The limit should be higher; some classes require you to print out a lot of Power Point slides as notes.” said student, Sarah Dusseau.

As of now printing is still free for students, Brian Lay said people will be notified if and when the change will be implemented.

Photo by Reggie Allen

MCCC looks forward to its anniversary of 50 years as an instituion

MCCC to celebrate 50 years Bill Miko

Agora Staff

Monroe County Community College is beginning the marketing and advertising of its 50 year anniversary celebration.

You may have seen the signs on the building, or the website, which emphasize “ 50 years of enriching lives.”

According to Joshua Myers, coordinator of development and external affairs, the college has not yet reached the 50-year anniversary of teaching classes.

“MCCC is celebrating the 50th anniversary of the vote to establish the Monroe County Community College District by a nearly two-to-one margin by the voters of Monroe County on June 29, 1964,” said Myers.

“We are celebrating the lead up to this watershed moment for Monroe County, which culminates with the 50th Anniversary date,” he said.

Myers went on to say that the first classes did not begin until the 1966-67 school year, and classes were actually held at Ida High School while the campus was under construction.

As MCCC celebrates 50 years of enriching lives, it also is expanding the campus by adding new career pathways. The new Career Technology Center opened the same semester the college began marketing for the 50 year anniversary.

As far as upcoming events to celebrate this milestone, plans are still in motion, Myers said. Nothing is set in stone as of yet, but a committee has been formed to discuss the options, including a possible all-class reunion which would bring Alumni back to campus.

Also, the La-Z-Boy Center and the Meyer Theatre are celebrating their 10-year anniversary, which will be tied in with the 50-year anniversary campaign, Myers said.

MCCC crime includes theft from cars, buildings 06/10 Larceny

Matt Mullins Agora Staff

MCCC has experienced several incidents of theft and miscellaneous crimes, according to incident reports provided by the office of Randy Daniels, vice president of Student and Information Services.

Also included in the 2013 incident reports were a couple vehicle incidents, a suspicious male harassing a victim in the Registrar’s office and a hacked Facebook account.

The majority of the incident reports filed for the year so far belong to medical injury incidents.

This is anything ranging from trouble breathing to seizures.

Here are highlights of the thefts reported over the last six months.

07/17 Larceny

Forced entry was made into the office of the victim; the thief had taken a welding helmet. Any number of students knew where the helmet would have been.

Complainant informed security she had set her wallet down at the La-Z-Boy center, but doesn’t remember where. After the officer searched with the complainant with no results.

05/13 Larceny

Instructor informed security that two of his students discovered that they were each missing six clay mugs.

05/01 Larceny – Vehicle

Two students reported that someone had broken into one of the victim’s vehicles and stole a purse containing $200 and three textbooks. Victim also stated that she did not lock her car. The victims asked if security could check the security camera in the lot (lot 4) and they were informed that the camera is inoperative.

04/16 Larceny – Vehicle

Victim reported that someone had stolen her backpack with a textbook and some miscellaneous items. The victim was unsure if

the larceny took place at the school and asked security to check the cameras in lot 7. The student was informed that the system was not working.

04/01-03 Larceny

An officer was called to the H building due to someone attempting to (or did) steal money from the tampon dispenser. The face of the machine had been torn away and the money had possibly been taken.

Upon further investigation it had been discovered that the rest of the buildings on campus (E, W, C, Z and L) had their tampon dispensers broken into.

After speaking with maintenance, security had a description of a heavyset white male approximately between 19 and 22 years of age had pulled on the locked H building door at approximately 10 p.m. looking for a place to study.

The maintenance staff was asked to inform security if they see the man again so he can be properly identified.

The Agora Editorial Policy Editor Julia Wells

Adviser: Dan Shaw

Staff Reggie Allen Tim Green Melanie Jacobs William Miko Katie Mullin

Matt Mullins Lauren Robinson Darryl White

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. Email submissions: agora@monroeccc.edu .

Faculty negotiations still stalled

By Katie Mullin Agora staff

Negotiating faculty contracts are moving along—at a snail’s pace.

“We’re certainly not moving very fast,” said Patrick Nedry, the chief negotiator of the faculty union, MCCCFA. The college and faculty negotiators met Sept. 13 to discuss the contract, which expired in August. Chief among the unresolved issues is faculty salaries.

“The primary issue is pay,” said Attorney Robert Boonin, of the Ann Arbor law firm, Butzel Long, and the

college representative during negotiations.

A state mediator has been hired to help the two sides find common ground.

The two sides began negotiations in March, and faculty began this semester without a working contract. An agreement was reached last month on health care benefits.

Nedry said there was some progress during the Sept. 13 meeting.

“We did make some very small gains. We haven’t made any big leaps,” he said.

The group spent at least 5.5 hours

trying to reach an agreement, he said.

Boonin said the parties are still exchanging proposals. He added both sides are trying to iron out the differences.

“We have work to do to resolve them,” he said.

Nedry said he is optimistic the contract can be settled in a way that respects the roles and positions of both parties.

“There is a lot of rhetoric on campus about wanting to ‘get this done,’” Nedry said in an email. “But there is little evidence of that at the negotiating table.”

September 26 , 2013

Campus News

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Kojo in the classroom

President bonds with students

By Julia Wells Agora editor

President Kojo Quartey has been here eight weeks and is making himself at home.

Quartey has made a noticeable effort to get acquainted with students and staff in his first semester here.

Before the semester began, he met with many professors on campus to get to know his staff.

Valerie Culler, director of Financial Aid, said she thinks he is tremendous.

“From my interactions with him so far, I think he’s going to be wonderful for our college,” Culler said.

At the start of the semester, he talked to a Macroeconomics class, impressing returning student Zachary Porter.

“I was very surprised that our new president took the time to come to our classes and meet us,” Porter said.

“I had never once met the previous president, so it was nice to see that our new one really cares about us.”

Three weeks into the semester, he gave a press-conference-style interview to a class of journalism students.

Student Logan Jacobs asked the president about MCCC’s weaknesses. Quartey replied that he hopes to improve transportation to make it easier for students to get to campus.

Students who are dual-enrolled in

“I had never once met the previous president, so it was nice to see.”

Agora photo by Julia Wells

New MCCC President Kojo Quarty talks to students during a press conference-style interview in a Journalism class.

Zachary Porter MCCC student

“He gave me the impression that he was energetic and involved.”

Logan Jacobs MCCC student high school, for example, struggle to get to MCCC, Quarty said.

“He gave me the impression that he was energetic and involved,” Jacobs said.

When first-year student Kathy Turner asked about his personal life, Quartey joked with her about his divorce and went on to talk about his five children.

“He was very funny and personable,” she said. “He looked more uptight than he was.”

Student Ed Keller also commented on the president’s approachable attitude.

“I’m only four years younger than the president and I am impressed by his education and demeanor,” Keller said. “I would relish the opportunity to talk to him.”

Quartey also discussed areas he hopes to improve in the near future at MCCC. He said he hopes to find a solution, perhaps a grant, to ease the burden of math students who have to pay to repeat classes.

“That’s what we do here; we enrich lives,” Quartey said.

He concluded the class with a prediction for his tenure at MCCC. “I predict a year from now our enrollment and transfer success rates will be up,” he said.

The president was the epitome of cool in his signature bow-tie, as he left the class room.

Heat and hot dogs welcome students back Students, faculty, and other members of the college gathered Sept.

10 as Student Govenmeant hosted the 5th Annual Welcome Back Barbeque. They were greated by sunny skies and temperatures into the 90s.

Activities included volleyball, frisbee and other games, in addition to the main attraction - hot dogs, veggie burgers, chips and soft drinks.

Clockwise: President Kojo Quartey joins a game of vollyball with students; students help staff set up tents; students gather around an intense ornhole game; Student government members Chris Holmes and Darryl McIntosh prepare hotdogs and veggie burgers; Tom Ryder give instructions to Student Government members.

Campus News

September 26, 2013

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College hopes CTC will attract students Industry faces shortage of both students, teachers

Matt Mullins Agora Staff

The new Career Technology Center is bursting at the seams with high placement job programs, but there aren’t enough students to fill the need.

“We are struggling with enrolment,” said Peter Coomar, dean of Applied Science and Engineering Technology.

The college is not only dealing with a decrease in enrolment, but is also currently having trouble locating qualified full-time staff and adjuncts.

“We do not have people,” Coomar stressed. “There aren’t enough qualified people in the field.”

Despite the enrollment issues, Coomar is optimistic.

“New programs are expected to bring 70 to 100 new students,” he said.

Many of the new technology programs can lead to high-paying jobs, Coomar added.

One of the newest and most successful certificate programs, Non-Destructive Testing, is a high placement major. This means well-paying jobs and plenty of them for certificate holders.

“There is a huge demand for Non-Destructive Testing. Students can make up to $35 to $50 an hour after two years of experience and training,” Coomar said.

Welding is another program in the new building that offers graduates a high likelihood of a job.

“The welding facility is the crown jewel in our program,” Coomar said. “The welding lab reflects on how important the welding program is.”

In a world where many college graduates have trouble finding jobs, the technology area seems to be beating the odds, despite the down economy.

With a generation of workers beginning to leave the workforce, colleges need to

“The new facility proves us with the ability to do different things. We don’t intend ondoing the same thing and expect different results..

Peter Coomar Dean, Applied Science and Engineering Technology.

Agora photos by Reggie Allen

Students work in one of the new computer labs in the new Career Technology Center.

provide a new set of workers. MCCC has to catch up with the rest of the industry, Coomar said.

“The new facility provides us with the ability to do different things,” Coomar said. “We don’t intend on doing the same thing and expect different results.”

Students are picking up on both the new facilities and the new atmosphere.

“It’s a really nice building. The envi-

ronment is different than the other buildings,” said Brad Souva, an Accounting student.

New technology seems to be everywhere. Rooms are filled with the most upto-date technology, including mechanical design labs, welding labs and a full automotive service garage.

“We have a lab facility that is dedicated to 3D printing,” Coomar said. “Now we

Roop Chandel, Professor of Materials Technology, helps a student in one of the new CTC classrooms.

Briefly:

have what we need for the program.”

Dean Kerste, professor of Mechanical Design Technology, was passionate when speaking about student job placement and the new equipment.

“Employers want certifications,” Kerste said. “If a student does well and becomes certified, we can get them placed.”

According to Kerste, students are getting hired at all sorts of places.

“La-Z-Boy and Midway Products are the big ones in Monroe,” Kerste said.

The Nuclear Engineering Technology program is another Coomar is proud of.

“The Nuclear Engineering Technology program is newly accredited,” Coomar said. “There are only about 40 colleges in the U.S. that have this accreditation.”

Coomar and the college are looking forward to adding more programs in the future.

“The CTC was planned to increase service to the community and students,” Coomar said.

One of the new programs planned for the CTC is Automotive Services.

“We are looking for full-time teachers and to set a curriculum by winter semester 2014 and have a fall semester 2014 launch,” Coomar said.

The college already has an Automotive Engineering Technology program.

Room was included in the CTC building for both the existing program and a new service-oriented curriculum.

“Automotive Service Technology is

Student Day. A list of approved donation items can be obtained at the bookstore.

spond to threatening situations. It will include self-defense techniques such as basic punches, kicks and strikes.

Tae kwon do will be offered in three sections: Sept. 24, Oct. 22 and Nov. 21. All sections will be 6:30-7:45 p.m. on Tuesdays and Thursdays in H building, Room 139. The cost per session is $49.

The children’s seminar and tae kwon do classes are taught by Mark Bergmooser, a certified fourth-degree black belt in tae kwon do.

To register for classes, contact the Office of Lifelong Learning at (734) 384-4127.

RT students plan bake sale E-learning, Blackboard help desk moves to W in A and H buildings The Respiratory Therapy Student Club is hosting a campus wide “bake sale” on Monday, Sept. 30, from 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.

Tables will be located in both the A and H buildings. All items will be sold for a donation and the proceeds will be go to the family of Melissa Montie, a first-year RT student who lost her brother recently.

“The family is struggling with finances for the funeral expenses and we would like to assist them in this time of need,” Nicholas Prush, Respiratory Therapy professor, said in an email.

“Please take time on Monday to stop by and get some goodies and donate money for a good cause.”

Anyone interested in donating baked goods can email Prush at nprush@monroeccc.edu

National Student Day celebration set for Oct. 3 MCCC’s third annual National Student Day Celebration will be Thursday, Oct. 3 from 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. in the A building.

The theme this year is “Study, Serve, Celebrate.” There will be food, live entertainment, games, and bookstore giveaways throughout the event.

The event is presented by the MCCC Book Store. Any organizations that want to participate in the event can contact Kelli Plumb, administrative assistant to the director of Purchasing and Auxiliary Services.

Students who bring an item for donation to the Monroe County Humane Society will receive 10 percent off apparel during National

The eLearning and Instructional Support department has moved from C10 in the basement of the C building to W-176, next to the RCTC in the W building.

“The primary reason for this move is to expand the Blackboard support services and hours by partnering with the RCTC,” said Jeff Peters, coordinator of e-Learning and Instructional Support in an email.

Students who need assistance with the Blackboard system can visit the new Blackboard Help Desk located in W157, in the RCTC. The Help Desk will be open Monday – Thursday from 8 a.m. – 9 p.m., Fridays from 8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m., and Saturdays from 8:30 a.m.

– 1 p.m. The phone number is 734-384-4328 and the email is elearning@monroeccc.edu.

Faculty who need elearning or instructional support can contact Peters in W176, phone 734-384-4129, email jdpeters@monroeccc. edu.

College Night set Oct. 29

Dozens of colleges and universities will visit MCCC Oct. 29 for the 2013 version of College Night.

The event will be held from 6-7:30 p.m. in the H building.

Among the colleges visiting will be Allegheny College, Bowling Green State University, Central Michigan University, College of Wooster, Columbia College, Concordia University, Defiance College, Eastern Michigan University, Ferris State University, Grand Valley State University, Hillsdale College, Hiram College, Lake Superior University, Lourdes University, Manchester College, Michgan State University, Michigan Technological University, Ohio State University, University of Michigan, University of Toledo and Tiffin University.

hoped to feed into the Automotive Engineering Technology program,” Coomar said.

Educators have an obligation to create better students for a continually developing world, Coomar said.

“We have a responsibility to educate,” he said. “My goal is to champion students.”

The enthusiasm about the new building is shared by the students Coomar is working to inspire.

“I think it’s awesome; the geothermal well is very interesting,” said Lisa Whiteside, a CAD and Material Construction student.

Even the smaller things are helping the students to adjust to the new building.

“I like it a lot better than the old W building; even the bathrooms are more up to date,” said Mike Kasmider, a Welding student.

In recent years, Michigan’s economy has caused the job market to dwindle and many people have lost their jobs. The CTC is a way for anyone to get back into the work force and support themselves and their families.

“Michigan has a very tremendous industrial history,” Coomar said. “Michigan is the place to be.”

(This story is the first in a series on the new Career Technology Center and its programs. Next: The emergence of alternative energy programs.)

MCCC community honors 911 anniversary

Agora photo by Reggie Allen

Mark Bergmoser, professor of Speech and Tae Kwon Do, demonstrates a move during a class.

Tae kwon do, self-defense classes offered MCCC’s Office of Lifelong Learning has scheduled three tae kwon do classes and a Children’s Self-Defense seminar this fall.

The Children’s Self-Defense seminar is for children ages 5-12, who must be accompanied by a parent. The cost for the one-hour session is $19 and it will be at 7 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 17 in the H building, Room 139.

Children will learn how to recognize and re-

A moment of silence was held at 11 a.m. on Sept. 11 in memory of the attacks on the World Trade Center and the Pentagon.

MCCC President Kojo Quartey sent an email to everyone on campus explaining what the day meant to him.

“Exactly twelve years ago, today, I was teaching an Economics class at Lincoln University in Jefferson City, Missouri, when I was informed that a plane had crashed into one of the twin towers,” Quarty wrote.

“A few minutes later, I received an update that another plane had crashed into the other twin tower. I immediately cancelled class and my students and I went downstairs to view the monitor we had in the hallway,” he continued.

“I will never forget that day for as long as I live!”

Quartey asked members of the MCCC community to join America and the rest of the world to remember and honor the memory of those who died that day.

“That day was one of the worst days in modern American history, but the American spirit remains undaunted. Let us continue to pray for the victims’ families and remain vigilant in our efforts to continue serving and positively transforming this great nation and the world with our talents,” Quartey said.

September 26, 2013

Campus/A&E

mcccgora.com • The Agora

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Pell Runners flee with Fed funds Katie Mullin Agora staff

Their footprints are found at college financial aid offices. They can form into a group or go alone, but only one thing is on their minds – stealing money.

These disguised fraudsters are called Pell Runners. They jump from college to college, staying just long enough to receive a Pell Grant refund, according to the Chronicle of Higher Education To maximize their amounts, they will enroll at other colleges and siphon more money from its financial aid offices. The process continues until they max out on the grant’s 18-semester limit or are caught in the act.

“In Pell Runners, it’s very intentional.

They enroll to get the funds and simply in most cases don’t show up for class or show up for one or two classes and then disappear for the rest of the semester,” Valerie Culler, Director of Financial Aid, said.

Some Pell runners form into rings called straw students. They are disguised under several bogus names, and target online college classes. They can also be found at community colleges where tuition is low. The cycle is repeated when the ring recruits others to double their money efforts. When the Pell checks roll in, they often pool together the cash and go on a self-spending spree.

“The abusers have no intention earning college credit. They simply want it for the aid” Randy Daniels said about those who cheat the Pell system. Daniels is the vice president of Student Services at MCCC. Designed by the Department of Education to give low-income students a chance to pursue a college degree, Pell grants can cover tuition, books and living expenses.

The maximum amount of aid a student can receive is $5,550 but varies based on financial need.

However, some ‘students’ have seen it as a grant to line their pockets.

“You have to be very cautious not to lump everybody in the same category. We’re not in a position to judge.”

Pell Jumpers: People who jump from college to college, staying just long enough to receive a Pell grant

Valerie Culler Director of Financial Aid

Agora graphic by Darryl White

“It’s shame because there’s someone out there that really needs it,” Daniels said about the fraud.

For the Pell Runner, it is an easy way to get free money. That money no longer becomes free when they are caught. When they are, the colleges are left to pay what has been taken. It is also the perpetrator’s responsibility to cover all restitutions.

Daniels and Culler are quick to point out that the majority of Pell grantees complete their education on time and use

it for the right reasons. Pell abuse constitutes a small percentage. According to the Chronicle of Higher Education, only 3 percent of Pell funds land in the wrong hands.

A growing, national problem, Pell Runners has raised awareness at MCCC. “We don’t have a huge issue. We’re doing what we can to prevent it from growing,” Daniels said.

To help combat fraud, MCCC has a screening system before aid is disbursed

to a student.

“We do request that the professors report to us the students who never showed up for class. That way, we can get the financial aid cancelled before those dollars are released. The Department of Education has a process in which they screen for unusual enrollment patterns, “Valerie Culler said.

Culler said when a student is flagged for attending multiple institutions; he/she must present transcripts to confirm they have earned credit.

To help combat fraud, MCCC has a screening system before aid is disbursed to a student.

Daniels said at least 80 people are currently placed on a hold because of their previous attendance patterns and lack of truthfulness in their admissions application.

When MCCC notifies students who owe money from a previous institution, many vanish from the scene.

“Most of them know that they owed money and cannot get transcripts,” he said.

However, two out of the 80 students were able to obtain their transcripts and attend MCCC. In the 2011-2012 academic years, Culler said the total amount of Pell Grant, and

student loans disbursed to students was over 10 million dollars. That fall, however, $120, 584.08 of those funds had to be paid back to the federal government.

In the winter semester of the same year, $118, 440.77 had to be returned.

The pay back may seem great, but Daniels said the lost amounts account for only 2.45 % percent of the total monies disbursed.

Not all lost monies are committed by Pell Runners. Some students may have dropped out of classes because of an extenuating circumstance, such as illness, or a death in the family.

“You have to be very cautious not to lump everybody in the same category,” Culler said.

“We’re not in a position to judge.”

Students should not be discouraged to apply for help---especially if they need it.

“It’s not our goal to stop people from pursuing higher education. We aren’t hindering anything. We simply want to stop the abuse,” he said.

Read the full article on Pell Runners in The Chronicle of Higher Education: http://chronicle.com/article/EducationDepartment-Chases/128821/ Source: http://www2.ed.gov/programs/ fpg/index.html

Board hears report on falling enrollment

By Katie Mullin Agora staff

A glimmer of hope for enrollment at MCCC can be seen in the front-view.

Mark Hall, director of Admissions and Guidance Services, reported on student enrollment at the MCCC Board of Trustees meeting Monday.

He noted the college made gains in one sector, despite the overall 7 percent drop in enrollment.

“We did see an increase of 20 percent with dual-enrolled students,” Hall said.

MCCC has seen enrollment decrease for three straight years, from nearly 4,800 students in 2010 to fewer than 3,800 this fall.

A task force has been created to search for new strategies in student retention, Hall said.

Hall said MCCC was able to recruit more students from north of the county, but the south county area was another story.

“We have some serious work to do in the southern county,” he said.

MCCC would like to target the Bedford area, Hall said.

“I think we need to be a little more aggressive,” he said about recruiting students there.

In addition, Hall said the average age of college students is dipping. A mending economy and a decrease in older individuals leaving the workforce were reasons given for the decline.

“It’s good for the economy, but not good for enrollment,” he said.

Hall also mentioned that the number of out-of-state students is down, but enrollment among out-of-county residents in Michigan climbed.

Suzanne Wetzel, vice president of Administration, presented a report to the board on anticipated tax revenues and cash flow issues.

She said the college needs to authorize a loan of up to $3 million to maintain its cash flow. It will be a short-term loan lasting approximately five months, allowing the college to pay its bills until the revenues arrive.

Agora photo by Reggie Allen

The lobby of the Career Technology Center features high ceilings and skylights.

CTC honored in construction excellence contest

MCCC’s new Career Technology Center building was honored as an entrant in this year’s CREW Impact Awards for construction excellence.

Walbridge, the construction firm that built the CTC, submitted the college’s newest edition to the contest.

CREW is an alliance of area commercial real estate firms. Walbridge participates as a member in the organization.

“These are very low risk loans,” she said about considering a low-interest-rate offer through Monroe Bank and Trust.

Wetzel said last year the college had to take out a $6 million loan. Most of that money was used to pay for CTC building expenses. The college was able to pay it back in full.

“We’re still analyzing our cash flows to see what we’ll need in November,” she

There are currently 76 CREW network chapters across the US and Canada.

CREW’s Detroit chapter held an awards luncheon on Sept. 18 where CTC was highlighted as a center “to help create a globally-competitive workforce and address industry-identified skill shortages in the region.”

Whole Foods of Detroit was selected as the new construction award winner.

said. “We’ll certainly never borrow more than exactly what we need.”

In other highlights of the Board of Trustees meeting, Joshua Myers, coordinator of Development and External Affairs, presented an update on fund-raising for the new Career Technology Center (CTC) building.

A Capital Campaign was established to help pay for the building. The State of

Suzanne Wetzel, vice president of Aministration and coordinator of Annual Giving and Alumni Affairs, mentioned CTC’s nomination at the September Board of Trustees meeting.

“It was exceptional, start to finish,” Board vicechairman William Braunlich said about construction of the CTC. CREW is an acronym for Commercial Real Estate Women.

Michigan granted $7 million, and the college paid the rest of the $15 million price out of its reserve funds.

So far, 190 donors have given to the Capital Campaign, Myers said.

“We received positive reception on the building. We continue to engage with them,” Myers said about its sponsors.

The board also approved new contracts

for Bradley Hesser, associate professor of Graphic Design, and Lindi McClure, RN assistant professor of Nursing.

October was declared United Way Month for 2013.

The Board approved a resolution that will encourage employees to participate in the voluntary organization’s 20132014 fundraising campaign.

Lil Wayne serves up a new mix William Miko Agora Staff

The highly anticipated fifth installment of Lil Wayne’s “Dedication” mix tapes has finally been released.

D.J Drama and Lil Wayne went back to work on this mix tape, going back to their roots when they were at their top of the game.

Wayne says in the introduction of Dedication 5 that he raps

about things on his mix tapes that wouldn’t necessarily make it in his albums.

The mix tapes allow him to deliver a more raw approach with a lot more freestyles, whereas the CD’s (The Carter series) are more artistic.

The first Dedication mix tape was released in 2005, and the second in 2006.

After Dedication 3 came out in 2008, Lil Wayne and DJ Drama

took a four year hiatus away from making mix tape.

The fourth installment did not meet the standards of his previous mix tapes, so many listeners were skeptical to pick up Dedication 5.

Wayne and DJ Drama did not disappoint on this one, putting their own twist on a lot of hit singles of the year.

Lil Wayne remixed Kendrick Lamar’s “Don’t Kill My Vibe”,

Rocko’s “U.O.E.N.O.”, Kanye West’s “New Slaves”, Jay- Z’s “You Know I Got It”, 2 Chainz and Pharrell’s “Feds Watchin’”, and much more.

Not only did Wayne remix pretty much every hit of the year, he also released a few tracks exclusively for this mix tape.

With a total of 29 songs, the Dedication 5 is definitely worth picking up.

A&E

September 26, 2013

mcccagora.com • The Agora

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September

1964: The Tribute Saturday, September 28 - 7:30 p.m.

La-Z-Boy Center, Meyer Theater Reserved Seating: $27 VIP Seating: $37*

1964: The Tribute will once again dazzle a whole new generation of fans while staying true to the memories many have held dear for nearly 50 years.

Dubbed the “best Beatles tribute on earth”

by Rolling Stone, 1964 has perfected the illusion of The Fab Four in concert. Like actors, these master musicians cast a spell as they step into the characters of the originals before your very eyes. Critics and fans internationally have hailed 1964: The Tribute as the most authentic Beatles tribute in the world.

For over 28 years, this group of performers has successfully recreated every sensation of being at a Beatles concert circa 1964-1966from wardrobe to hairstyles and Liverpool accents to singing nuance and vintage instruments. Visit their web site at http://1964site. com/#/home.

October Heywood Banks

Crystal Bowersox

Friday, October 11 - 7:30 p.m.

La-Z-Boy Center, Meyer Theater Reserved Seating: $22 VIP Seating: $32*

Saturday, October 19 - 7:30 p.m.

La-Z-Boy Center, Meyer Theater Reserved Seating: $27 VIP Seating: $37*

Heywood Banks is not your normal stand-up comedian - he is simply one-of-akind. Dressed in a plaid jacket and wearing dark-rimmed glasses, Banks’ style is all his own. Equal parts genius and buffoon, this songwriter/comic/singer/poet/musician is a cult hero and pop icon whose comic routine appeals to a variety of people, from college students to business people to grandmothers. Banks intersperses his humorous observations on life with twisted, inventive, bizarre songs sung and played in a variety of styles. Just a few of his national television credits include the nationally syndicated “Entertainment Tonight,” A&E’s “Evening at the Improv” and MTV’s “1/2 Hour Comedy Hour.” He is also a regular guest on the nationally syndicated radio program, The Bob and Tom Show. Visit his web site at http://www.heywoodbanks.com.

Crystal Bowersox has made it her mission to live life and her music to the fullest. With a gentle warmth and wisdom well beyond her years, the consummate artist has an uncompromising vision of herself and her music that is refreshing and rare. It is this fortitude and courageous spirit that resonated with millions night after night when the 2010 “American Idol” runner up took the stage. There is a sincerity and authenticity about her that just can’t be manufactured, and she writes and performs a rich mix of blues, country, folk and rock that makes her one of the most dynamic young voices in music to come along in years. Visit her web

November

December

Hot August Night A Tribute to Neil Diamond

Sister’s Christmas Catechism - The Mystery of Magi’s Gold

Saturday, November 16 - 7:30 p.m.

La-Z-Boy Center, Meyer Theater Reserved Seating: $27 VIP Seating: $37*

Saturday, December 7 - 7:30 p.m.

La-Z-Boy Center, Meyer Theater Reserved Seating: $22 VIP Seating: $32*

If you can’t make it to a live Neil Diamond show, then catch the next best thing: one of the country’s best Neil Diamond tribute acts, performed by Hot August Night at the Meyer Theater. Lead singer Dean Colley has impressed audiences worldwide with his uncanny recreation of Diamond’s look and unique vocal style. He’s played before audiences in the U.S., Japan, Canada and England. He and the band will be performing such classic tunes as “Sweet Caroline,” “Song Sung Blue,” “Holly Holly,” “Forever in Blue Jeans” and many more. Visit their web site athttp://hotaugust. com.

DON’T MISS Agora Chorale Concert Tuesday, December 10 - 7:30 p.m.

La-Z-Boy Center, Meyer Theater General Admission: Free

Symphony Band Concert

Monday, December 16 - 7:30 p.m.

La-Z-Boy Center, Meyer Theater General Admission: Free

It’s “CSI: Bethlehem” in this holiday mystery extravaganza from the author of Late Bite Catechism, as Sister takes on the mystery that has intrigued historians throughout the ages: whatever happened to the Magi’s gold? (We know that Mary used the frankincense and myrrh as s sort of potpourri - they were in a barn after all.) Retelling the story of the nativity, as only Sister can, this hilarious holiday production is bound to become a yearly classic. Employing her own scientific tools, assisted by a local choir as well as a gaggle of audience members. Sister creates a living nativity unlike any you’ve ever seen. With gifts galore and bundles of laughs, Sister’s Christmas Catechism is sure to become the newest addition to your holiday traditions. Visit their web site athttp://www.entertainmentevents.com/shows/ sister_catechism.asp.

Band and Chorale Concert

Monday, October 21 - 7:30 p.m.

La-Z-Boy Center, Meyer Theater General Admission: Free\ Don’t miss the season opener for both the College/ Community Symphony Band, directed by Mark Felder, and the Agora Chorale, directed by Catherine Brodie.

Opinon

September 26, 2013

mcccagora.com • The Agora

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Weighing in on the conflict in Syria Reggie Allen Agora Staff

Conflict in Syria has gained national attention as countries around the world decide how to respond to the use of chemical weapons.

The problem started in late 2011 when anti-government protestors rallied against the rule of Bashar al-Assad. Forces took deadly action on the protestors, killing many civilians and sending the country into a civil war.

On August 21, 2013, Syrian neighborhoods were attacked with chemical weapons, killing over 1,400 civilians in what president Obama calls the worst chemical weapons attack in the 21st century.

“Obama’s initial response was that we should take military action against Syrian regime targets.”

Immediately after that, gruesome images and videos of the overflowing hospitals and sights of wounded victims hit the web.

“I feel for all of the innocent people who were affected by this attack. This is an issue that should be resolved with the support of the United States” says Tia Keeler, an MCCC student.

Various reports surfaced as attempts were made to sort out exactly who was behind this act of terrorism.

Some believe evidence proves the Syrian government is responsible, while others are unsure of the origin of the attack In Obama’s address to the nation on Sept. 10, he supported his belief that the Assad regime was behind the attack: “In the days leading up to Aug. 21, we know that Assad’s chemical weapons personnel prepared for an attack near an area where they mix Sarin gas. They distributed gasmasks to their troops. Then they fired rockets from a regime-controlled area into 11 neighborhoods that the regime has been trying to wipe clear

Photograph by Scott Bobb via Voice of America News

Wounded civilians arrive at a hospital in Aleppo following a clash with government troops.

of opposition forces.”

Others disagree with his conclusion; a CBS news headline published Sept. 17th states: “Russia unconvinced that Assad behind Syria chemical weapons attack.”

Obama’s initial response was that we should take military action against Syrian regime targets.

“There’s no point in fighting fire with fire,” said sophomore student Amanda Huber.

“America should not use their power-

ful military to bully other countries, when there are non-violent solutions that can be put forth,” she said.

Many people around the world agree with this and these voices eventually reached the president.

Unable to get international support, he pursued the support of Congress for limited air strikes. A Congressional decision was postponed when another intervention became feasible.

After U.S. Secretary of State John Ker-

ry made a seemingly off-the-cuff suggestion that Syria could avoid US air strikes by turning over their chemical weapons, Russia persuaded the Syrian government to do just that.

Russian foreign minister Sergey Lavrov and Kerry reached an agreement calling for a U.N. resolution demanding that Syria hand over its chemical weapons to international control.

However, as of September 18, there are still disagreements about key elements of the proposal.

The US wants to include the threat of force in the case Syria does not comply.

Russia disagrees.

Through all of the conflict and violence one thing is looking promising: a solution may have been found to seize these weapons.

However, if this does not happen, we can only watch as these decisions are being made.

MCCC offers job opportunities for students Barry Kinsey For the Agora

Don’t ignore the “HELP WANTED” signs you see posted on campus, especially if you want convenient work while completing your degree.

These signs are advertising for Student Assistants to work in various positions on campus.

A Student Assistant can work up to 20 hours per week, depending on the need of the hiring department and his/her schedule.

The basic guidelines to become a student assistant employee are: 1. Enroll in a minimum of 6 credit hours for the current semester

“The Office provides information regarding available part-time, full-time, permanent, and temporary positions...”

2. Register with the Office of Workforce Development www.collegecentral. com/monroeccc 3. Login to College Central to view available student assistant positions 4. Complete the Online Student Assistant Application Form 5. Drop it off to room 286 in the LaZ-Boy Center on the Monroe County

Community College campus or email it to workforce@monroeccc.edu 6. Your application will be forwarded to the appropriate department or division for review 7. Preference is given to Federal Work Study eligible applicants It is the commitment of the College that the candidate is a student first and an employee second.

A student’s class schedule is reviewed and work hours scheduled accordingly.

If a Student Assistant position is not for you, the Office of Workforce Development at MCCC offers students, alumni, and Monroe County residents free assistance in locating employment

opportunities in Monroe and surrounding areas.

The Office provides information regarding available part-time, full-time, permanent, and temporary positions in a wide variety of areas.

Upon registration with the Workforce Development Office (www.collegecentral.com/monroeccc ), job seekers can search for available jobs in the community as well as nationally.

They can also post and submit resumes and credentials packets to potential employers, and have access to a variety of job seeking skills seminars and reference materials.

For local employment opportunities, visit their website at www.collegecen-

tral.com/monroeccc or check out their JOB BOARDS in the Administration Building across from the MCCC Bookstore or in the north hallway of the Whitman Center.

For additional information about the Office of Workforce Development or information on how to register, contact Tammy Suzor, 734-384-4270, or Barry Kinsey, 734-384-4124, in the Office of Workforce Development, or you can email them at workforce@monroeccc.edu - or visit them in person.

You can also like us on Facebook at Monroe County Community College Employment Assistance/Workforce Development or follow on Twitter @ MCCC Employment.

Columnist ready to begin advice

Would you sell your soul for $60?

Ray Bell

Grand Theft Auto 5 has surpassed all expectations and achieved something no other game could; they’ve hit $1 billion in just three days.

That is almost the same amount of money spent by the government on education last year.

It would take 19,601 average person’s full year’s salary to equal out to what consumers spent in three days.

The executives at Rockstar are certainly benefitting from the big numbers, but does anyone else benefit?

With the average salary in the U.S. declining and the poverty level rising, where are we getting the money to buy a billion dollars worth of video games?

With the last Call of Duty installment, Black Ops 2, raking in a billion dollars in 15 days, we have to start to wonder why the poverty levels are so low, yet the entertainment sales are so high.

Every U.S. citizen is, or should feel, obligated to help their fellow man. If we could take those billions of dollars spent on video games per year and put it toward feeding the hungry and saving the environment, maybe we can start to pave a mature, followable path for the generations ahead.

While we are at it, we could take those hours spent gaming and turn them into volunteer hours.

As a planet, we spend roughly 3 billion hours a week playing video games. The wasted time, energy and electricity is enough to power the world for years on end.

Roughly 706 billion people in just South Asia alone live without electricity; imagine how

For the Agora

The start of a new year, and the start of a new era on the Agora.

My first column. I never thought I would see the day. I could say to all of you, “Thank you for reading this.”

Because without you, I would be just another old spinster forcing people to listen to my opinion about things.

I also want to let you all know that the YouTube channel set up in correlation with this column is up and running. The link to the video is this: http://www.youtube.com/ watch?v=RLEDiBbCCZk. Please tune in every 2-3 weeks.

I want to start off by saying to you, the reader, that I applaud you.

Why, you ask? For taking the steps necessary to achieve a better life for yourself.

Education is a lifelong process. We are surrounded by knowledge and learn something new each and every day.

Whether it is in a classroom or at home, we take something that we did not know and store it in our heads.

But it is a process that frankly I have seen squandered by those who choose to waste the time of others.

“Education is a lifelong process.”

I frown at the people who are falling asleep in class or at someone who is texting their friends throughout the class.

It ticks me off because our dollars are paying for some of these students to do nothing.

I am saddened by the fact that some students are wasting government money and keeping those who want to learn out of the classrooms they want to be in.

So my advice to you, the reader, is to fully obtain the knowledge around you.

And once you obtain that knowledge, respect it for eternity.

It is better for you down the road to be intelligent and knowledgeable than to be trapped in an endless cycle of disappointment.

Let’s keep the learning train moving forward.

Matt Mullins Agora Staff

GTA V Logo courtesy of Rockstar Games

much those billions of dollars a year could help.

The U.S. has never been a change-overnight nation, but we need to start thinking about what is best for our fellow primates.

Right now, in the U.S. alone there are roughly 16 million children who live in a household that cannot provide nutritious food on a regular basis.

We could feed every hungry child for a week on what we spent in just three days.

I can only start to wonder about what people are giving up to play this video game, which runs about $60.

Are they sacrificing food for their children or their significant other? Are they giving up gas for a week? Maybe they are taking it out of their budget for housing.

No matter where it comes from, U.S. priorities are far from where they need to be. Education and health are the two most important things, not just for the U.S., but for the world.

“Every U.S. citizen is, or should feel, obligated to help their fellow man. If we could take those billions of dollars spent on video games per year and put it toward feeding the hungry and saving the environment, maybe we can start to pave a mature, followable path for the generations ahead. While we are at it, we could take those hours spent gaming and turn them into volunteer hours.”

Every year education is on the back-burner and entertainment is in the spotlight.

I plead for you to ask yourself what is more important: Playing these video games, or feeding starving children?

Once you can honestly answer this question, I hope you can reach the same conclusion that I have and realize that something has to be done.

We have to put our best foot forward and help the people who can’t help themselves.

It isn’t just the teenagers who play this game’s fault; it has a lot to do with the parenting.

If we aren’t raising our children to care about the poverty stricken, to walk in someone else’s shoes and have a desire to help, then we are all doing something wrong.

If we decide that buying our children these games is more important than them going outside and socializing, then we are all doing something wrong.

So the next time you hear someone complain that their actions don’t make a difference, remind them of the billions of dollars spent, in just a couple of days, on video games - that do nothing for those starving children all around the world.

Screenshot courtesy of Flickr user Smademedia

Sports

September 26 , 2013

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|8

Tigers prepare for playoffs William Miko Agora Staff

Fall weather is in the air and the Detroit Tigers are well on their way to the playoffs.

According to most sporting news media, the Tigers were the favorite to win the American League Central division. As of now they have a commanding six game lead on the Cleveland Indians.

Going into the season, the main concern for the Detroit Tigers was their bullpen troubles. They seemed to overcome this obstacle throughout the season, and remained in first place for the majority of the year.

Jim Leyland wanted to give their closer Jose Valverde another shot this year. His shaky pitching in the late game forced the Tigers to let him go, again.

The Tigers seemed to find a new closing pitcher they can rely on in Joaquin Benoit who is 21 for 21 in save opportunities.

“A lot of people have short changed our bullpen a little bit; we’ve kind of had to make a shift this year. We’re just trying to fight through and keep winning games,” Said Leyland in a recent post game interview with The Chicago Tribune.

Justin Verlander’s play this season was down from recent years, which is something that nobody saw coming. Verlander has been known as one of the top pitchers in the MLB, but this season his numbers are pedestrian at best.

“He’s just kind of had a freak year; he certainly hasn’t had a bad year up to this point. He hasn’t had the type of year that

we’re used to, but he certainly hasn’t had a bad year,” Leyland said about Verlander, on Mlive.com.

Verlander’s poor play has been picked up by the rest of the starting rotation for the Detroit Tigers.

Finding a way for the pitching to come together was crucial for the Detroit Tigers this season. Everyone knew they would be able to hit, but late game pitching was their main concern.

The Tigers’ hitting this season was as expected. According to MLB.com they are leading the majors in team batting average, and second in runs scored.

Miguel Cabrera’s performance this year was one of the best in MLB history.Going back to the year 1878 only 16 players have won the Triple Crown.

The Triple Crown is when you finish the season leading all players in homeruns, runs batted in, and batting average.

Cabrera won the Triple Crown last season, and was the first person to win it since 1967.

This season Cabrera was in contention to win it again, which would be two years in a row.

Cabrera is leading the majors in batting average, and runs batted in, but trails Chris Davis from the Baltimore Orioles in homeruns.

The Tigers have been one of the most

consistent teams in the majors this season.

With the playoffs starting in October, the only thing stopping Detroit is themselves.

Last year’s Triple Crown winner, Miguel Cabrera, could have another win this season.

Agora Photo

Participants of last year’s Great Pumpkin Pursuit ran on all terrains for student scholarships.

Fourth Pumpkin run, first Color Dash to be held William Miko Agora Sraff

The fourth annual Great Pumpkin Pursuit is scheduled to take place on October 5, along with the first ever Color Dash.

If you are looking for a serious 5k, then the Great Pumpkin Pursuit for you. If you are more focused on having fun, and want to be sprayed with a wide variety of colors, then you should go with the Color Dash.

The Great Pumpkin Pursuit starts at 10 am and is a flat, fast cross-country race with no roads, sidewalks, or water crossings entirely on the MCCC Main Campus.

Participants in the Pumpkin Pursuit will receive a T shirt and refreshments, and be entered in door prize drawings. Late registration participants are not guaranteed a T shirt.

Proceeds from the 5k will go to the support of scholarships here at MCCC. Generous scholarship donors make it possible for students to go to college, who would otherwise never have a chance for higher education.

Race day registration begins at 8 am in front of the Welch Health Education building. You can also register before the

day of the race by visiting www.monroeccc.edu/run.

If you are looking for a 5k focused more on fun, then you should consider MCCC’s first ever Color Dash.

The Color Dash is being held on the same day as the Great Pumpkin Pursuit, race day registration will begin at 9:30 am in front of the Welch Health Education building. The Dash is set to begin at 11:15 am, but if you get there early you can enjoy music, food, and raffles.

During this 5k you will be covered in non toxic, 100% biodegradable powder by eager volunteers. Each kilometer completed will bring a new color into the mix.

Participants in the Dash should wear white T shirts, additional crazy attire is encouraged. Participants will receive a bag of color, goggles, and a white bandana.

For those 14 and older, registration is 40 dollars. Children between the ages 8-13 is 20 dollars, and those 7 and younger are free and must be accompanied by a parent.

Spectators can watch the race from the finishing area and can also buy packets of powder. Beware: You could be doused with powder!

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.